MBN The Monte Bubbles Network

March 1

Two Incredible Forces Come Together as Spider-Man Meets NBC's 'Heroes' for a Night of Event Programming

Exclusive Six-Minute Scene From Spider-Man(TM) 3 Debuts Online at NBC.com Following Cliffhanger Episode of 'Heroes'

Spider-Man(TM) 3 Scene to be NBC.com's First HD Stream

As Peter Parker's Aunt May once said, there's a hero in all of us. That will be true as Monday, March 5, becomes a night of heroes -- Columbia Pictures, in anticipation of the release of Spider-Man(TM) 3 on May 4, will air an exclusive one-minute clip from the film during the broadcast of a cliffhanger episode of NBC's top-rated new show "Heroes," then premiere six minutes from the film online, exclusively on NBC.com, for 24 hours.

As "Heroes" moves towards the exciting conclusion of its second story arc of its first season, viewers of the show and Spider-Man fans will get a look at Spider-Man(TM) 3 with a brand-new 60-second clip from the movie that contains a cliffhanger of its own. Then, immediately following the broadcast, Web-crawling viewers and moviegoers can go online to catch the premiere of a revealing six-minute film sequence that will have viewers on the edge of their seats as it is streamed in high definition at NBC.com.

"'Heroes' and Spider-Man both share a common theme: everyday people and how they deal with finding themselves in extraordinary circumstances," said Valerie Van Galder, President of Domestic Marketing for the Columbia TriStar Motion Picture Group. "Because of that, this is a great programming marriage -- it makes for a night of event television and a rare opportunity to see a scene from one of the summer's most highly anticipated movies. We couldn't be more excited to unveil six minutes of the movie to help whet the appetites of Spider-Man fans everywhere."

"We're so pleased to be teaming up with Columbia Pictures to present our audience with such an exciting event," said Vivi Zigler, Executive Vice President, NBC Digital Entertainment and New Media. "This partnership not only gives our users an exclusive sneak-peek at Spider-Man(TM) 3 -- a film they will undoubtedly want to see -- but also increases the richness of their experience by allowing them to stream it in HD, a first for NBC.com."

The one-minute Spider-Man(TM) 3 clip will drive viewers to NBC.com to see the exclusive six-minute scene from the movie, which is NBC.com's first-ever HD-streamed presentation, on any platform. The event will be promoted with ads in USA Today, Los Angeles Times, New York Times, and TV Guide, as well as online and on the radio. It will also be heavily promoted on NBC.

Columbia Pictures' Spider-Man(TM) 3 reunites the cast and filmmakers from the first two blockbuster adventures for a web of vengeance, love, and forgiveness that will transport worldwide audiences to thrilling new heights on May 4, 2007.

In Spider-Man(TM) 3, based on the legendary Marvel Comics series, Peter Parker has finally managed to strike a balance between his devotion to M.J. and his duties as a superhero. But there is a storm brewing on the horizon. When his suit suddenly changes, turning jet-black and enhancing his powers, it transforms Peter as well. Under the influence of the suit, Peter's pride and overconfidence take hold and he begins to neglect the ones he cares about the most. As two of the most-feared villains yet, Sandman and Venom, gather unparalleled power and a thirst for retribution, Spider-Man's greatest battle is the one within himself -- he will need to rediscover who he is and what makes him the hero people love.

Columbia Pictures Presents A Marvel Studios/Laura Ziskin Production Spider-Man(TM) 3 starring Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, James Franco, Thomas Haden Church, Topher Grace, Bryce Dallas Howard, James Cromwell, Rosemary Harris, and J.K. Simmons. The film is directed by Sam Raimi. The screenplay is by two-time Oscar(R) winner Alvin Sargent and the screen story by Sam Raimi & Ivan Raimi and based on the Marvel Comic Book by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko. The producers are Laura Ziskin, Avi Arad, and Grant Curtis. The executive producers are Stan Lee, Kevin Feige, and Joseph M. Caracciolo.

About Columbia Pictures

Columbia Pictures, part of the Columbia TriStar Motion Picture Group, is a Sony Pictures Entertainment company. Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) is a subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America (SCA), a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sony Corporation. SPE's global operations encompass motion picture production and distribution; television production and distribution; digital content creation and distribution; worldwide channel investments; home entertainment acquisition and distribution; operation of studio facilities; development of new entertainment products, services and technologies; and distribution of filmed entertainment in 67 countries. Sony Pictures Entertainment can be found on the World Wide Web at http://www.sonypictures.com/.

About NBC Entertainment and NBC.com

NBC Entertainment develops and schedules programming for the network's primetime, late-night, and daytime schedules. NBC's quality programs and balanced lineup have earned the network critical acclaim, ratings success, particularly among young, upscale viewers, and numerous awards, including more Emmy Awards than any network in television history.

NBC.com is the most visited broadcast television site and the online home for the most affluent and educated broadcast television audience including unique offerings, such as interactive content, text and video blogs, and more.

 

Source: Columbia Pictures

 

 

Web site: http://www.sonypictures.com/

 

Tony Bennett's 'The Best is Yet to Come' 20-City Tour Kicks-Off With Exclusive Pre-Sale for AARP Members

AARP, one of the world's largest membership organizations, and music legend Tony Bennett, today announced the kick-off of his AARP-sponsored concert tour "The Best is Yet to Come" which debuts on March 16, 2007 in Denver, Colorado. As a presenting sponsor, AARP is pleased to offer its members the chance to purchase tickets to Tony Bennett's upcoming performances before the general public during an exclusive pre-sale event. Pre-sale dates and information on how to purchase tickets are available at http://www.aarp.org/tonybennett.

"This concert partnership demonstrates AARP's broad efforts to use the power of music to forge an emotional connection with its 38 million members," said Shereen Remez, Group Executive Officer for Member Value at AARP. "We're thrilled to be a part of what will likely be one of Tony Bennett's best tours ever and Tony's vibrant spirit reminds all Americans that age is just a number and life is what you make it."

With over 100 albums to his credit and over 50 million records sold worldwide, Tony Bennett is an internationally renowned icon. The tour-the first concert partnership of its kind for AARP-will visit the following 20 cities across the United States: Denver, Phoenix, Cleveland, Hartford/Wallingford, Pittsburgh, Houston, San Francisco, Atlanta, Vienna/Washington DC, Atlantic City, Ft. Worth, Detroit, Chicago/Highland Park, Seattle, Minneapolis/Prior Lake, St. Louis, New York, Ft. Lauderdale and Tampa/Clearwater.

Tony Bennett's son and manager Danny Bennett praised the sponsorship and commended AARP for celebrating the power of music. "Music reminds each and every one of us how important it is to embrace life and live it to its fullest," he said. "This is a generation who is determined to stay forever young at heart and realizes that the best is yet to come." Calling Bennett's music "the soundtrack for change," he said AARP's efforts would particularly resonate with baby boomers.

The tour will feature the 15-time Grammy winner performing from his repertoire of the Great American Songbook, including hits from his new CD, "Tony Bennett Duets: An American Classic." Additional information can be found at http://www.aarp.org/tonybennett.

AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization that helps people 50+ have independence, choice and control in ways that are beneficial and affordable to them and society as a whole. We produce AARP The Magazine, published bimonthly; AARP Bulletin, our monthly newspaper; AARP Segunda Juventud, our bimonthly magazine in Spanish and English; NRTA Live & Learn, our quarterly newsletter for 50+ educators; and our website, AARP.org. AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection, and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. We have staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Source: AARP

Web site: http://www.aarp.org/tonybennett

 

 

Jaman Kicks-Off Cinequest 17 With Distribution Deal Including 150 Films Selected From the Cinequest Library

Jaman CEO Gaurav Dhillon to Give Keynote Presentation on the Evolution of Film Distribution Alongside Notables Such as Television Producer J.J. Abrams, Legendary Independent Producer Christine Vachon and Stewart Copeland of The Police

SAN JOSE, Calif., March 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Jaman.com, Inc. announced today a multi-year partnership with Cinequest Film Institute, a premiere independent film institute, to distribute over 150 independent films selected from the history of Cinequest Film Festivals, the Cinequest Distribution Label, and Cinequest Online collections. The films will all be available via Jaman's online community that delivers feature-length international and independent films in better-than-DVD quality directly to viewers around the world. The collection will include films such as Emmy(TM) Award-winning Amargosa, multiple award-winning Awful Normal, and the political satire Terrorists. To highlight the partnership, Jaman Founder and CEO, Guarav Dhillon, will offer the festival's keynote presentation on the topic of emerging models of distribution and their impact on the film industry.

"Every year, thousands of excellent films are introduced at the world's top film festivals, but less than one percent ever finds an audience beyond those festivals," said Gaurav Dhillon, CEO of Jaman. "We are building a unique online community that allows film fans from around the world to discover, enjoy and share great independent cinema. For festival-goers everywhere, there is no better way to support independent filmmakers than to watch and enjoy these films year-round."

"Over the past seventeen years at Cinequest, we've seen an ever-growing demand for provocative and engaging independent film from the U.S. and around the world. This year over 70,000 fans will be attending Cinequest 17," said Halfdan Hussey, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Cinequest. "Jaman gives our filmmakers a way to reach their fans year-round. Most of all, it provides filmmakers with a global distribution model and long-term revenue stream that ensures their continued success and innovation in independent filmmaking."

To celebrate their multi-year partnership with Cinequest and to introduce festival goers to over 150 Cinequest films debuting on Jaman.com, Jaman is also announcing a contest open to all festival goers and Cinequest supporters. Cinequest fans that register at www.Jaman.com/Maverick and watch at least three Cinequest feature films will be entered for a chance to win a 42-inch plasma television for their home theater. Jaman uses h.264 based encoding tools to digitize and enhance film masters allowing viewers to enjoy these films in better-than-DVD quality directly from their PCs or from a large home theater plasma screen.

"The Internet is revolutionizing how people enjoy and socialize around films," said Hussey. "The Internet and the home theater are becoming one. This contest is a great way for our fans to experience state-of-the-art online viewing first-hand, while at the same time supporting Cinequest filmmakers around the world."

Jaman's sponsorship of the festival also includes showcasing five award- winning films in this year's festival:

*Curiosity Kills the Cat, Yibai Zhang -- Director, China

*Just Sex and Nothing Else, Krisztina Goda -- Director, Hungary

*Pao's Story, Quang Hai Ngo -- Director, Vietnam

*The Road, Zhang Jiarui -- Director, China

*We Shall Overcome, Niels Arden Oplev -- Director, Denmark

With over 1000 films currently under license for distribution, Jaman offers the largest library of award-winning festival films available online, available for immediate rental or purchase. Film fans can watch feature films via Jaman's player directly from their Mac or PC, or enjoy the viewing experience using a home theater system. Jaman incorporates community features including in-movie conversations, reviews, groups and "friending" providing a way for thousands of movie-goers to socialize on Jaman.

Films on Jaman are available for $1.99 to rent and $4.99 to purchase. During the remaining beta period, fans will be able to enjoy free film rentals throughout the site. Films can be browsed and discovered with a recommendation from a friend, the community, or Jaman guides.

About Jaman:

Jaman.com is the way people discover, enjoy and share world cinema. The company is pioneering social cinema on the Web by delivering better-than-DVD quality films to a growing online community of fans and filmmakers from around the world. Jaman.com, Inc. is headquartered in San Francisco, California and is backed by luminaries in technology and media (more at www.jaman.com/about ). The company is led by Founder and CEO Gaurav Dhillon, co-Founder and former CEO of Informatica Join Jaman -- Join the world.

About Cinequest:

Cinequest is a premier motion picture institute that produces:

*Cinequest Film Festival, a discovery festival of Maverick films and

technology forums.

*Cinequest Distribution: delivering films to fans worldwide through

leading Internet technologies plus DVD.

*Cinequest Screenwriting Competition.

*Camp Cinequest: a groundbreaking youth education program.

Cinequest Film Festival 17 will occur February 28-March 11, 2007 www.cinequest.org

Source: Jaman.com, Inc.

 

Web site: http://www.cinequest.org/
http://www.jaman.com/

 

Music Leader Interscope Records and James Cameron Partner for Cutting Edge 3-D Production of Music Videos, Concert Films and More

/ -- Music may never look the same again thanks to an agreement announced today that brings together Interscope Geffen A&M Records -- home to Dr. Dre, Eminem, U2, Gwen Stefani, 50 Cent, Sheryl Crow, Pussycat Dolls and many others -- and Academy Award-winning director James Cameron. Using new breakthrough digital technology, Interscope and Cameron are set to produce 3-D presentations of everything from music videos to concerts, commercials to stage musicals.

"This is revolutionary and very ambitious," said Gene Kirkwood, the renowned film producer heading the partnership's efforts. "There are people who stand in line and people who make the line, and Jimmy Iovine and James Cameron are about to start a new line outside movie theaters."

The venture is all-encompassing, from 3-D commercials to be shown before concert films to a circuit of 600-1,000 movie theaters that will regularly show the productions; from selling subscriptions to a series of 3-D concerts to merchandising that includes music artists designing their own 3-D glasses that viewers may take home with them to use for subsequent screenings.

3-D content will be shot using the Fusion digital stereo camera system, developed by Cameron with Vincent Pace. The cameras duplicate human vision, putting the audience on stage with the performers. Music concerts in particular will be experienced in theaters like never before. The first concert is expected to be released theatrically within six months.

"We're always looking for ways to improve the experience of music," said Jimmy Iovine, Chairman of Interscope Geffen A&M Records. "When I saw what James Cameron was doing with his dedication and wizardry to the 3D platform, it seemed like the perfect combination for us to do some groundbreaking work."

The project was launched last year after Gwen Stefani's "Wind It Up" video was filmed in 3-D alongside the released version. That unreleased test video so impressed Iovine that he decided to join forces with Cameron, who will provide 3-D production expertise as well as proprietary equipment, while Interscope offers its artists and music expertise.

"Jimmy Iovine and I instinctively gravitated together on this because we both believe that music and media are changing, and we want to be at the cutting edge," said James Cameron. "We want to provide audiences with a more intense musical experience. 3-D amplifies everything, it puts you closer to your favorite artists than you ever imagined. What we're doing can redefine the relationship between music and visual media."

Cameron wrote, directed and produced such blockbuster, technologically advanced films as Terminator 2: Judgment Day and Titanic, the highest-grossing film in history.

"To bring people back to movie theaters you have to do something different," said Kirkwood, who has produced such films as Rocky, The Idolmaker, The Pope Of Greenwich Village and Get Rich Or Die Tryin' as well as, with Iovine, the current HBO music interview series "Off The Record" hosted by Dave Stewart. "Ticket prices, for movies and for concerts, are high. You have to give people their money's worth. This new 3-D format gives them both an amazing concert experience and an amazing film experience. This really is a new form of entertainment."

Source: Interscope/James Cameron

codebluemedia@earthlink.net

 

VH1 Classic to Televise the 'Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony' for First Time LIVE on Monday, March 12 at 8:30 PM/ET

Induction Ceremony To Be Simulcast Live In High-Definition on MHD: MTV Networks' High-Definition Music Channel

VH1 Classic to Air Special Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Programming Featuring Past Inductees Including Fleetwood Mac, Stevie Wonder, U2 and Bonnie Raitt

VH1 To Air Special Two-Hour Edition of 2007 Ceremony on Saturday, March 17 at 9:00 PM/ET

For the first time ever, VH1 Classic will air the "Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony" LIVE on Monday, March 12 at 8:30 PM/ET. Music fans will get to see and hear Van Halen, R.E.M., Patti Smith, The Ronettes, and Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five get inducted into this esteemed musical institution as the action and music unfolds.

For the first time, this year's induction ceremony will be telecast live from the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City on VH1 Classic and MHD: MTV Networks' high-definition music channel on Monday, March 12 at 8:30 PM/ET. In addition, a special two-hour highlight edition will premiere on VH1 on Saturday, March 17 at 9:00 PM/ET.

The week leading up to the live special, VH1 Classic will air special programming to salute previous Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees including Fleetwood Mac, Stevie Wonder, U2, Bonnie Raitt and more.

On Tuesday, March 6 beginning at 8:00 PM/ET VH1 Classic will air a "Classic Albums" marathon focusing on the work of former Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees including Fleetwood Mac, Queen, The Who, Stevie Wonder, U2, the Sex Pistols and Pink Floyd. Each "Classic Albums" episode tells the story behind the making of one of rock music's most seminal albums.

VH1 Classic will also present a special "BBC Crown Jewels" marathon premiering on Thursday, March 8 at 8:00 PM/ET. These rare performances from the BBC archives feature past Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees such as AC/DC, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Tom Petty, Stevie Wonder, The Police, Rod Stewart and Bonnie Raitt.

Select "Decades Rock Live" concerts featuring performances by Lynyrd Skynyrd, Elvis Costello and The Pretenders will air back-to-back on Saturday, March 10 beginning at 1:00 PM/ET. "Decades Rock Live" is a critically-acclaimed original concert series that pairs celebrated artists from rock to soul who have influenced popular music over the last 50 years with some of today's hottest recording acts who have been inspired by these legends.

Additional Rock Hall-themed programming to run throughout the week includes "Prince: Prince of Paisley Park" airing on Sunday, March 11 at 5:00 PM/ET and the "Rock and Roll Picture Show" featuring Led Zeppelin's "The Song Remains The Same" premiering on Monday, March 12 at 6:00 PM/ET.

To learn more about these series and other VH1 Classic series and specials please visit http://www.vh1classic.com/.

Launched in May 2000, VH1 Classic is a 24-hour network that present videos, concerts and music specials all day long, featuring the best of rock, soul and pop artists from the 60's, 70's, 80's and the early 90's including The Beatles, The Stones, Tina Turner, Led Zeppelin, Marvin Gaye, The Who, Stevie Wonder, The Police and many more. Learn more at http://www.vh1classic.com/

Press Contact: Maura Wozniak/VH1 Mariana Agathoklis/MHD

Source: VH1

Web site: http://www.vh1.com/

 

 

 

Feb 28

 

 

CMT Announces the Final Nominees for the '2007 CMT Music Awards'

Kenny Chesney, Rascal Flatts and Carrie Underwood Lead With Three Nominations Each

Multi-Platinum Rascal Flatts Added to the Performance Line-up, Allowing Viewers to Vote for the 'Flatt Out Fan Favorite'

CMT to Stream Awards Show Live Online at CMT.com and on CMT Radio for Second Year

Country superstars Kenny Chesney, Rascal Flatts and Carrie Underwood lead the final nominees for the 2007 CMT MUSIC AWARDS, it was announced today at a CMT press conference hosted by nominated duo, Sugarland. Also announced was the addition of triple nominated Rascal Flatts to the performance line-up for the show, putting a new twist on their performance by letting CMT viewers choose their "Flatt Out Fan Favorite," the song that will open the sixth annual awards show. The 2007 CMT MUSIC AWARDS will air live from Nashville's Curb Event Center at Belmont University on Monday, April 16 at 8:00 p.m., ET.*

For the first time since 2003, the Dixie Chicks make the final nominees list, garnering two nominations, along with Sugarland and newcomers Jason Aldean and The Wreckers. Toby Keith also snags two nominations, hoping to hold on to his designation as the most-awarded CMT MUSIC AWARDS artist. Other notable nominees include Josh Turner who picks up his first nomination in the MALE VIDEO OF THE YEAR category, among established country favorites Kenny Chesney, Tim McGraw and Toby Keith. Sting picks up his first CMT MUSIC AWARD nomination along with Sheryl Crow for their duet, "Always On Your Side," in the newly-created WIDE OPEN COUNTRY VIDEO OF THE YEAR category.

Fans can vote online at CMT.com through Friday, April 13 to determine the night's winners of the 2007 CMT MUSIC AWARDS, airing live on Monday, April 16 at 8 p.m., ET*. Fans can also vote online for the "Flatt Out Fan Favorite," from the following Rascal Flatts hits: "Life Is A Highway"; "Me and My Gang"; or "Fast Cars and Freedom."

The final nominees for VIDEO OF THE YEAR will be announced at the beginning of the show, and fans can vote at CMT.com, as well as via mobile phone, throughout the live broadcast (ET/CT only) to determine the night's big winner. Log on to CMT.com to view streaming clips of nominated videos.

  Below is a complete list of final nominees for the 2007 CMT MUSIC AWARDS:    

CMT MUSIC AWARDS BREAKTHROUGH VIDEO OF THE YEAR 

Best video from an artist's major debut album;

awarded to the artist (male, female, or group/duo).

   * Jason Aldean -- "Amarillo Sky"    * Kellie Pickler -- 

"Red High Heels"    * Taylor Swift -- "Tim McGraw"    

* The Wreckers -- "Leave The Pieces"    

CMT MUSIC AWARDS WIDE OPEN COUNTRY VIDEO OF THE YEAR  

Video that aired on CMT during WIDE OPEN COUNTRY and pushes the boundaries of country music; awarded to the artist (male, female, group/duo or collaboration).

   * Jack Ingram -- "Love You"    * Jimmy Buffett -- 

"Bama Breeze"    * Johnny Cash -- "God's Gonna Cut You Down"    

* Sheryl Crow and Sting -- "Always On Your Side"    

CMT MUSIC AWARDS VIDEO DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR 

Video with the best direction (video that best captures the mood, tempo, and intensity of the song); awarded to the video director for work on a specific video and accepted by the director and the artist.

   * Paul Boyd / Gary Allan -- "Life Ain't Always Beautiful"    

* Roman White / Carrie Underwood -- "Before He Cheats"    

* Shaun Silva / Kenny Chesney -- "You Save Me"    

* Wes Edwards / Jason Aldean -- "Amarillo Sky"    

CMT MUSIC AWARDS GROUP VIDEO OF THE YEAR   

Best video by a group; awarded to the artists    

* Dixie Chicks -- "Not Ready To Make Nice"    

* Little Big Town -- "Good as Gone"    

* Rascal Flatts -- "Life is A Highway"    

* Rascal Flatts -- "What Hurts the Most"    

CMT MUSIC AWARDS DUO VIDEO OF THE YEAR   

Best video by a duo; awarded to the artists    

* Big & Rich -- "8th Of November"    

* Brooks & Dunn -- "Building Bridges"    

* Sugarland -- "Want To"    

* The Wreckers -- "Leave The Pieces"    

CMT MUSIC AWARDS FEMALE VIDEO OF THE YEAR   

Best video by a female artist; awarded to the artist.    

* Carrie Underwood -- "Before He Cheats"    

* Faith Hill -- "Stealing Kisses"    

* Gretchen Wilson -- "California Girls"    

* Sara Evans -- "You'll Always Be My Baby"    

CMT MUSIC AWARDS MALE VIDEO OF THE YEAR   

Best video by a male artist; awarded to the artist.    

* Josh Turner -- "Would You Go With Me"    

* Kenny Chesney -- "You Save Me"    

* Tim McGraw -- "My Little Girl"    

* Toby Keith -- "A Little Too Late"    CMT MUSIC AWARDS VIDEO OF THE YEAR 

Best video of the year; awarded to the artist (male, female, group/duo or collaboration). Final four nominees announced during live telecast, with final voting held online at CMT.com and via mobile phone during the show.

   * Carrie Underwood -- "Before He Cheats"    

* Dixie Chicks -- "Not Ready to Make Nice"    

* George Strait -- "The Seashores of Old Mexico"    

* Keith Urban -- "Once In a Lifetime"    

* Kenny Chesney -- "You Save Me"    

* Rascal Flatts -- "What Hurts the Most"    

* Sugarland -- "Want To"    * Toby Keith -- "A Little Too Late"  

Comedian Jeff Foxworthy returns as host for the third consecutive year when the 2007 CMT MUSIC AWARDS airs live from Nashville's Curb Event Center at Belmont University on Monday, April 16 at 8:00 p.m., ET.* The CMT MUSIC AWARDS remain country music's only fan-voted awards show.

For the second year in a row, CMT will simulcast the awards live online at CMT.com and on CMT Radio, making the broadcast available to nearly 150 CMT radio affiliates. In addition, exclusive content will live on CMT.com and its broadband channel CMT Loaded, on CMT Mobile and on URGE, MTV Network's digital music service.

Tickets to the 2007 CMT MUSIC AWARDS at The Curb Event Center at Belmont University in Nashville go on sale Saturday, March 3 at 10 a.m., CT and are available at all Ticketmaster outlets, by phone at 615-255-9600, online at CMT.com and ticketmaster.com.

Visit CMT's press-only 2007 CMT MUSIC AWARDS Web site www.cmtmusicawardspress.com for more information and downloadable photos.

CMT, America's No. 1 country music network, carries original programming, specials, and live concerts and events, as well as a mix of videos by established country music artists and new cutting-edge acts, including world premiere exclusive videos. Founded March 6, 1983, CMT, owned and operated by MTV Networks, reaches more than 83 million households in the United States. Go to country music's biggest web site at www.cmt.com.

*EDITORS: The 2007 CMT MUSIC AWARDS premiere LIVE on Monday, April 16 at 8:00 PM, Eastern and 7:00 PM, Central; and at 9:00 PM, Mountain and 8:00 PM, Pacific (tape delayed).

Web sites: http://www.CMT.com
http://www.cmtmusicawardspress.com

Source: CMT

 

'South Park' is Back With All New Episodes

The Hit Series Launches Its 11th Season on Wednesday, March 7 at 10:00 P.M.* on COMEDY CENTRAL(R)

Season 11 Uncensored Episodes Available on iTunes

NEW YORK, Feb. 28 /PRNewswire/ -- Coming up in the 11th season, viewers can expect a parody of the popular FOX hit series, "24," and Hilary Clinton pays a visit to "South Park." There will be plenty of shocking surprises from the legendary fourth-graders with seven all-new episodes beginning on Wednesday, March 7 at 10:00 p.m. on COMEDY CENTRAL. As a bonus, fans will be able to download the uncensored version of each new episode from the 11th season on iTunes the Tuesday after it premieres beginning on Tuesday, March 13.

Launched in 1997, "South Park," now in its 11th season, remains the highest-rated series on COMEDY CENTRAL. "South Park" repeats Wednesdays at 12:00 a.m., Thursdays at 10:00 p.m. and 12:30 a.m., Fridays at 12:00 a.m. and Sundays at 11:00 p.m.

Trey Parker and Matt Stone are co-creators and executive producers of the Emmy and Peabody Award-winning "South Park" with Anne Garefino as executive producer. "South Park's" Web site is www.southparkstudios.com.

COMEDY CENTRAL, the only all-comedy network, currently is seen in more than 90 million homes nationwide. COMEDY CENTRAL is owned by, and is a registered trademark of, Comedy Partners, a wholly-owned division of VIACOM Inc.'s (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:and) (NYSE:VIA.B) MTV Networks. COMEDY CENTRAL's Internet address is www.comedycentral.com.

*All times ET/PT.

 

Web site: http://www.comedycentral.com/
http://www.southparkstudios.com/

 

 

MAGIC PUTS FASHION INDUSTRY IN MOTION FOR FALL/WINTER 2007

120,000 Attendees from Around the Globe Shop Fall/Winter 2007 Collections at MAGIC, WWDMAGIC, MAGIC kids, Sourcing at MAGIC, PROJECT, and Pool

 

 Las Vegas was the center of the fashion industry from February 13-16^th, as the MAGIC Marketplace drew the top retailers, designers and manufacturers from around the globe. With more than 4,000 companies on display, the fashion industry’s biggest business event featured the most extensive selection of resources across apparel, accessories, footwear, sourcing and contract manufacturing.

"MAGIC continues to be committed to providing the most comprehensive marketplace in the industry and that was on full display this week in Las Vegas,” said Laura McConnell executive vice president of fashion for Advanstar Communications. "The MAGIC Marketplace offers an unparalleled selection of quality merchandise and resources creating one of the most powerful business environments in fashion. We strive to meet the changing needs of the fashion industry and the growth of our marketplace reflects that.”

The February marketplace featured some of the industry’s hottest brands such as: Badgley Mischka Platinum, Calvin Klein, Cole Haan, Steve Madden, True Religion, All Black, Joseph Abboud, Skechers, Modern Amusement, Donald Pliner, Junk Food, SAFARI by Design, Bon Bebe, Kitson Footwear, Chinese Laundry, Crocs, Eileen Fisher, Bongo Jeans, Torino, Kara Janx, Artful Dodger and Stussy, to name a few.

"Skelanimals was extremely impressed with the attention we received at MAGIC,” said Cindy Bailey, CEO of Art Impressions, Inc.  “We were overwhelmed with our success at the show, particularly with the number of buyers that attended. As a result, we have developed partnerships with retailers in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Mexico, South America and Europe.  Making a lifestyle statement at MAGIC was one of the best things we could have done for the brand and we look forward to returning to MAGIC for years to come."

Celebrities also heated up the marketplace, unveiling the latest looks from their new and existing brands. Show veterans Russell Simmons (Phat Farm), Jay-Z (Rocawear), Travis Barker (Famous Stars and Straps), Gene Simmons (Dussault Custom Ink) and Beyonce (House of Dereon) joined new attendees 50 Cent (G-Unit) and Brooke Burke (Street Saint Apparel) on the floor.

MAGIC also added sizzle to the red-hot Las Vegas nightlife scene. The Bellagio Hotel’s Tower Ballroom was transformed into a Fat Tuesday celebration benefit for the New Orleans Area Habitat for Humanity, co-sponsored by Joseph Abboud, and featured a performance by the Neville Brothers. On the second night of the show, MAGIC co-hosted the launch of streetwear line Christopher Brian. Models worked the runway at The Hard Rock Hotel’s Body English, and Omarion and Timbaland performed late into the night.

MAGIC continued its tradition of recognizing exhibitors that created innovative booth presentations. The following brands were honored during the February marketplace:

MAGIC Central Hall (Men’s, Designer, Premium & Contemporary, Casual Lifestyle, and Active & Licensing categories)

Best of Show:    Suberba Inc

Innovator: Daron Fashions/Hawke & Co

Image: Isaco International Corp.       

MAGIC South Hall (Streetwear and Young Men’s categories)

Best of Show: Girls Gone Wild  

Innovator: Dussault Custom Ink 

Image: Kaptain Leather Bubble  

WWDMAGIC

Best of Show:   BCBG/Max Azria Inc.

Innovator: Crocs Footwear      

Best Dressed: Whitewash        

Accessories & Swim at the Hilton

Best of Show:   Van Group for Nikki Chu

Innovator: The Life Imagined

Best Dressed: Belts the Rock

MAGIC kids

Best of Show: Bon Be

Sourcing at MAGIC
Best of Show:   CMPE-Morocco Pavilion
Innovator: G Gulpi

Best Dressed: Korea Fashion Association

For more information on MAGIC, high resolution images and additional details from the February marketplace, please visit www.magiconline.com

 

ABOUT MAGIC

Every August and February, the fashion industry converges on Las Vegas for the most influential four days in the business – the MAGIC Marketplace. The next event takes place August 27-30, 2007 in Las Vegas, NV.  For information, call 818.593.5000 or log onto www.magiconline.com

MAGIC International is a subsidiary of Advanstar Communications, the world’s largest and most widely recognized organizer of trade shows for the apparel industry producing the MAGIC Marketplace in Las Vegas featuring MAGIC, WWDMAGIC, MAGIC kids, and Sourcing at MAGIC, Project, and Pool.  

 

 

KOCH Records Announces Partnership With The Machat Company to Relaunch WOMAD Records

WOMAD 25th Anniversary Compilation on Deck

 KOCH Records and The Machat Company announce a new partnership to release new artist albums and compilations through the WOMAD Festival.

The Machat Company, which specializes in World and Spiritual Music, is owned by Steven Machat, a visionary and music industry veteran. Machat founded WOMAD, the acclaimed world music label with Peter Gabriel and Thomas Brooman 25 years ago. WOMAD (which stands for World of Music, Arts and Dance) brings together and celebrates many forms of music, arts and dance drawn from countries and cultures all over the world. Many of these upcoming releases with fall under the Namaste/KOCH Records imprint.

With a live recording archive spanning 25 years and over 145 events, WOMAD has captured hundreds of now-legendary performances by globally celebrated artists from all continents and representing a kaleidoscope of the world's cultures and musical traditions. The first compilation release by Namaste and KOCH will be "WOMAD 25," a collection of the most memorable moments of the first 25 years. Following later in summer of 2007 will be "WOMAD 2007," featuring many of the artists performing in this year's festivals, including Amaan Ali Khan and Ayaan Ali Khan.

The first release will be The Khans' new album, "Truth," and will be available online and in stores on March 13. Amaan and Ayaan Khan use their mastery of traditional Indian music as a jumping off point for a musical exploration mixing elements of worldbeat and global electronic flavors. The brothers have taken classical Indian music and have made it electric.

The alliance between Namaste and KOCH will also focus on Sound Healing Music and other forms of music for body, mind and spirit. Also being released on March 13 is "The Crystal Singing Bowls Collection of Crystal Tones," featuring many of the leading artists in the field of sound healing, including Steven Halpern, Jonathan Goldman, Dr. Michell Gaynor, Patrick Duff and Life In Balance.

About KOCH Records

KOCH Records is a division of KOCH Entertainment, the fastest-growing music company and the market leader among independents in North America. The KOCH Entertainment corporate umbrella encompasses the KOCH Records label, KOCH Vision home video, KOCH Music Publishing and KOCH Entertainment Distribution with operations in both the U.S. and Canada. KOCH Records proudly claims the largest number of Billboard charting albums among independents for each of the last six years (2001-2006). For additional info on the KOCH Records label and its roster of artists, please visit www.kochrecords.com

 

 

KoRn to Host 'MTV Unplugged: KoRn' Virtual Album Release Party in MTV Networks' Virtual World

Live Acoustic Album Set for March 6, 2007 Release on Virgin Records America

'MTV Unplugged: KoRn' Premieres for the First Time Commercial Free on MTV Friday, March 2 at 11:30pm ET/PT

-- KoRn fans around the globe no longer have to fly to Los Angeles for a chance to meet the band.

In a first for this revolutionary alternative rock band, KoRn will host a virtual record release party in MTV Networks' virtual world in anticipation of the imminent CD release of MTV UNPLUGGED: KoRn. The party gets started on Wednesday, February 28, 2007 at 8 PM ET/5 PM PT, as the band members, who will be represented in-world by specially created avatars, unveil their new album, interact live with fans and screen behind-the-scenes footage and exclusive clips from their MTV Unplugged performance.

KoRn fans can join the band in-world by downloading the virtual world application for free at http://www.virtualkorn.mtv.com/. MTV will also give away virtual t-shirts and posters to lucky KoRn fans in-world.

MTV UNPLUGGED: KoRn will be released on Virgin Records on March 6, 2007, following the on-air premiere of "MTV Unplugged: KoRn" on MTV Friday, March 2 at 11:30 PM ET/PT for the first time commercial free. This global television event will be featured on MTV, mtvU and MTV Tr3s, as well as through MTV's numerous online and mobile platforms. In the program, Grammy winners KoRn perform acoustic versions of the band's greatest hits, as well as several new songs unique to the "MTV Unplugged" performance.

KoRn also welcomes two guest performers to the "MTV Unplugged" stage: alternative music pioneers The Cure, and Amy Lee, lead singer and songwriter of Evanescence. The band's one-time collaboration with Lee on the classic "Freak on a Leash" (originally released on KoRn's No. 1 album Follow the Leader) has already broken out of the program to air as a music video on MTV in "Big 10" rotation, as well as in MTV2's "Elite 8" and mtvU's "Summa Cum Laude" rotation -- the highest exposure level on each channel.

KoRn's debut album on Virgin Records, SEE YOU ON THE OTHER SIDE, released in 2006, has sold more than a million copies in the U.S. Two tracks from the album, "Twisted Transistor" and "Coming Undone," were Top 5 rock radio airplay hits. The band's "MTV Unplugged" appearance also follows the most successful year of the Family Values Tour, created by KoRn in 1998. Over 400,000 tickets were sold in 2006.

 

http://www.korn.com/

MTV UNPLUGGED: KoRn

TRACK LISTING

1. Blind

2. Hollow Life

3. Freak On A Leash (featuring Amy Lee of Evanescence)

4. Falling Away From Me

5. Creep

6. Love Song

7. Got The Life

8. Twisted Transistor

9. Coming Undone

10. Make Me Bad / In Between Days (featuring The Cure)

11. Throw Me Away

Source: MTV Networks

 

Web site: http://www.mtv.com/
http://www.korn.com/
http://www.virtualkorn.mtv.com/

 

Platinum Studios Launches BLOOD NATION Comic Book Simultaneously in Print and Online

First Ever Concurrent Release of Comic Property

-- Platinum Studios, Inc. (www.PlatinumStudios.com), an entertainment media company that controls the world's largest independent library of comic book characters, announced today "BLOOD NATION," the newest Platinum Studios comic book, will be released simultaneously in print and online. This is the first time that a new mainstream comic has been released in both the online and offline worlds concurrently.

"BLOOD NATION," which puts a new spin on vampire mythology, was created by Rob Moran with art by James Devlin and John Keane. "BLOOD NATION" tells the story of a group of bodies discovered in the frozen tundra of Russia's desolate Siberian landscape and brought back to life only to find out that they carry a mutant strain of the vampire disease. Comic fans can view the trailer for "BLOOD NATION" at www.BloodNation.com. The print comic will premiere in comic shops around the country and online at www.DrunkDuck.com and www.BloodNation.com on February 28, 2007.

"With today's ever more sophisticated audience, we have only a short window to grab their attention," said Jim McLauchlin, editor-in-chief of Platinum Studios Comics. "We have to be everywhere they are and that means both in print, where the audience is shrinking, and online, where the audience is growing."

"This is a really cool way to get more people who might not have seen and purchased it at their comic book stores to see 'BLOOD NATION,'" says Rob Moran, creator of "BLOOD NATION." "While this is a rather unorthodox strategy, my hope is that this will pay off in increased numbers of books being sold for the entire series."

"We won't be doing a simultaneous release for all of our comic launches," said McLauchlin. "But when you have a four-issue series like 'BLOOD NATION,' you have to do something out of the ordinary to make it stand out and be seen."

About Platinum Studios www.platinumstudios.com

Platinum Studios is an entertainment company that controls the world's largest independent library of comic book characters, which it adapts and produces for all forms of media. Platinum Studios' library contains more than 3,800 characters and a full range of genres and styles including DrunkDuck.com, the largest Web comics community. With deals in place with some of the entertainment and new media's top players, Platinum is a recognized leader in the creation of new content across all media.

Source: Platinum Studios, Inc.

Web site: http://www.drunkduck.com/

Web site: http://www.bloodnation.com/

Web site: http://www.platinumstudios.com/

 

Big Screen Entertainment Group Completes First Cut of 'Babysitter Wanted'

Big Screen Entertainment Group (BULLETIN BOARD: BSEG) is pleased to announced that it has completed the first cut of its new horror/thriller, "Babysitter Wanted." The film, which wrapped principal photography in November, has been edited at BSEG's Paramount and Raleigh Studios facilities in Hollywood. Editors have worked virtually non-stop to complete this important first milestone.

"We're extremely pleased with the work that our editor, Stephen Eckelberry, has done," said BSEG's CEO Kimberley Kates. "Stephen, working closely with the film's director, Michael Manasseri, has crafted a tense thriller with strong horror elements that harkens back to some of the great films of the genre."

"Babysitter Wanted" stars Sarah Thompson ("Seventh Heaven"), Matt Dallas ("Kyle XY"), Bruce Thomas ("Legally Blonde"), Kristen Dalton ("The Departed"), Nana Visitor ("Star Trek: Deep Space Nine") and Bill Moseley ("The Devil's Rejects").

Jonas Barnes (Original Films) wrote the script, and co-directed with Manasseri. The film was produced by BSEG's Kates, Zappone and Eckelberry and executive produced by Robert Reyes, Tony Chacon and Richard Celeste.

The next step will be an industry screening for studio execs on the Paramount lot, which will take place in the next few weeks. "We have been told by several industry veterans that this is one of the best first cuts of a film that they have ever seen. We are all very excited here at Big Screen, and are eager to get "Babysitter Wanted" to the public as quickly as possible," Kates said.

The filmmakers have also been collaborating closely with Big Screen's new gaming division headed by Newrosoft, Inc.'s CEO, Andrei Gireada in designing the casual game based off the movie. "Babysitter Wanted: The Game" will be released concurrently with the film. The company is in discussions with a major gaming distributor to take the title to market.

About the Company:

Big Screen Entertainment Group (BSEG) is a full service entertainment company designed to develop, produce, purchase, exhibit and distribute products in all media formats, including motion pictures, television, music, publishing, video games and cell phone content.

BSEG has completed three films, three films in post-production, five films and an MMORPG game in development. Visit our website at www.bigscreenent.com for more information on these movies.

Forward-Looking Statements:

A number of statements contained in this press release are forward-looking statements that are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties, including timely development, and market acceptance of products and technologies, competitive market conditions, successful integration of acquisitions and the ability to secure additional sources of financing. When used in this press release, words such as "could," "plan," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "potential," "should," and similar expressions are forward looking statements.

 

www.bigscreenent.com

 

www.forgetaboutitthefilm.com

www.themirrorfilm.com

www.babysitterwanted.com

www.biggervu.com

Source: Big Screen Entertainment Group

 

Web site: http://www.bigscreenent.com/
http://www.forgetaboutitthefilm.com/
http://www.themirrorfilm.com/
http://www.babysitterwanted.com/
http://www.biggervu.com/

 

Secret(R) Teams with Recording Artists Rihanna and Nicole Scherzinger to Promote Female Self-Expression

(NYSE: PG) -- Secret(R), the number one female anti-perspirant/deodorant in North America, has teamed up with music stars Rihanna and Nicole Scherzinger from The Pussycat Dolls, to introduce a brand new single that promotes female self-expression, strength and cultural fusion. Released today, the single entitled "Winning Women" is available for free download on http://www.Secret.com. Secret brought these two young, culturally diverse women together to create a fun and fresh song about the power of being an independent and strong female.

"I'm thrilled to be working with Rihanna on this song. We had so much fun bringing our different ideas and expressions together to create 'Winning Women' for Secret," Nicole Scherzinger said.

"Winning Women" coincides with the launch of the new Secret Scent Expressions product line. This new collection fuses scents from various cultures around the world to create a truly unique scent experience. Similar to how exotic scents are fused together in this collection, the song "fuses" together the musical styles of Rihanna and Nicole Scherzinger to drive home the overall message of feminine strength.

"The song 'Winning Women' that Nicole and I collaborated on helps Secret get the message out to women that there is strength in self-expression and individuality," Rihanna said. Renowned music producer Sean Garrett produced the song.

"Rihanna and Nicole are young, fresh, diverse, and most importantly strong. They represent the type of woman Secret has been linked to for years and we are thrilled to be working with them on this song," said Alex Keith, General Manager for Procter & Gamble Anti-Perspirant and Deodorant. "They were the perfect choice to create this song for Secret, a brand that has supported strong females for decades."

Consumers can visit http://www.Secret.com, created by IMC2, one of the countries leading interactive agencies, to download the exclusive song, "Winning Women" for free and find out more about the song fusion and the New Scent Expression product line. In addition, women can go to http://www.MySpace.com/WinningWomen to create their own original remix of the song.

About Procter & Gamble Beauty (NYSE: PG)

P&G Beauty sells more than 130 different brands in over 180 countries worldwide that touch and improve lives daily. P&G Beauty had more than $19 billion in global sales in fiscal year 2004/05, making it one of the world's largest beauty companies. The global leading beauty company at mass, P&G Beauty brands include: Pantene(R), Head and Shoulders(R), Olay(R), Max Factor(R), Cover Girl(R), Gillette(R) Complete Skin Care for Men, Always(R), Joy(R), Hugo Boss(R), Wella(R), Herbal Essences(R), Clairol Nice 'n Easy(R) and SK-II(R). Please visit http://www.pg.com for the latest news and in-depth information about P&G Beauty and its brands.

SOURCE Procter & Gamble Beauty

 

Pringles Hits a High Note With American Idol Partnership

Innovative Off-Air Sponsorship Encourages Consumers to Unleash their Rhythm through Marketing and Promotional Opportunities

 Pringles(R), America's favorite stacked potato crisp, today announced an innovative partnership with FremantleMedia, co-producer and licensor of the hit television series, AMERICAN IDOL, in conjunction with show creator, 19 Entertainment, marking the first long-term partnership with an entertainment property in Pringles' 37- year history. As a partner for AMERICAN IDOL'S sixth season, Pringles will launch an expansive marketing campaign that will feature limited edition AMERICAN IDOL branded cans, an AMERICAN IDOL-themed 15-second TV spot running during broadcasts of the new AMERICAN IDOL season on FOX, AMERICAN IDOL Rewind and a separate national sweepstakes. Starting in February and throughout AMERICAN IDOL 6, consumers will be invited to live out their AMERICAN IDOL dreams through a series of online and in-store promotions including:

Ready, Set Jingle!

Pringles will launch the first-ever "Jingles for Pringles" contest, a nationwide search for unique expressions about Pringles. Given the rhythmic nature and musical equity of the brand, Pringles will offer consumers the chance to express their passion for Pringles by submitting videos of themselves performing a jingle that expresses their feelings about Pringles.

Consumers will be asked to submit videos online at www.jinglesforpringles.com

Twelve finalists will receive an AMERICAN IDOL digital recorder, with a nationwide consumer vote for the ultimate winner

The grand prize winner will receive VIP ticket packages to the AMERICAN IDOL finale show in Los Angeles; package includes hotel, transportation and an unforgettable night of excitement, ushering in the next AMERICAN IDOL

The "Jingles for Pringles" contest has begun on February 26, 2007. Entries will be accepted through April 8, 2007. Visitors to Pringles.com can vote from April 23, 2007 through May 4, 2007. The winner of "Jingle for Pringles" will be announced online May 7, 2007

Consumers will be asked to submit videos online at www.jinglesforpringles.com

Attend the AMERICAN IDOL Finale

Pringles will introduce limited-edition cans (Original, BBQ, Cheese and Sour Cream & Onion) featuring AMERICAN IDOL logos and show visuals. These limited-edition cans will be on shelf through June, and will promote the Pringles AMERICAN IDOL Sweepstakes, where one lucky person will win a 4-day/3- night trip to Los Angeles for the 2007 AMERICAN IDOL finale. No Purchase Necessary. Official Rules and entry information are available at Pringles.com/us.

"Our partnership with FremantleMedia on AMERICAN IDOL marks a historical moment for the Pringles brand," said Paul Tepfenhart, Pringles Brand Manager. "AMERICAN IDOL reflects all of our brand's excitement and vitality while allowing our consumers to unleash their joy and love of Pringles."

Michele Welch, Director of Integrated Marketing, FremantleMedia Licensing Worldwide, North America, added, "AMERICAN IDOL provides the ultimate in family entertainment and we are always looking for partners that help us complete the experience. This partnership will allow our fans to engage with the show in new ways through multiple channels."

Back-to-School

After the finale, consumers can still get their AMERICAN IDOL fix for the back-to-school season, continuing this promotion. Pringles is offering families an opportunity to get a head start on the exciting school year. Starting in July, consumers can mail in receipts from specially marked 18-ct Snack Stacks to receive a free, customized AMERICAN IDOL backpack. While supplies last. Additional details will be available at Pringles.com.

About Procter & Gamble [NYSE:PG]

Three billion times a day, P&G brands touch the lives of people around the world. The company has one of the strongest portfolios of trusted, quality, leadership brands, including Pampers(R), Tide(R), Ariel(R), Always(R), Whisper(R), Pantene(R), Mach3(R), Bounty(R), Dawn(R), Pringles(R), Folgers(R), Charmin(R), Downy(R), Lenor(R), Iams(R), Crest(R), Oral-B(R), Actonel(R), Duracell(R), Olay(R), Head & Shoulders(R), Wella, Gillette(R), and Braun. The P&G community consists of over 135,000 employees working in over 80 countries worldwide. Please visit http://www.pg.com for the latest news and in-depth information about P&G and its brands.

About FremantleMedia Licensing Worldwide, Americas:

FremantleMedia Licensing Worldwide, Americas (FLW, Americas) is the licensing arm of FremantleMedia for North and South America. FremantleMedia one of the largest international creators and producers of program brands in the world, with leading prime time drama, serial drama, entertainment and factual entertainment programming in over 40 territories. FLW, Americas exploits FremantleMedia's many strong brands, including the award winning, American Idol, the world's longest running gameshow The Price Is Right, the ever-popular Family Feud, and other classic gameshows, across multiple off- screen platforms including merchandising campaigns, live events, sponsorship, interactive and wireless support, home entertainment and music publishing. FLW, Americas is also responsible for additional business diversification initiatives including Atomic Wedgie, a pioneering wireless channel delivering original made-for-mobile video content on demand.

FLW, Americas is part of FremantleMedia North America (FMNA). FremantleMedia North America (FMNA) is a division of global media giant FremantleMedia, one of the largest international creators and producers of program brands in the world. Based in Burbank, California, FMNA currently produces some of the most innovative and highest-rated entertainment on television, including Emmy-nominated musical/reality phenomenon "American Idol" for Fox, "America's Got Talent" for NBC, "American Inventor" for ABC, "The Janet Dickinson Modeling Agency" for Oxygen, "Property Ladder" for TLC, the daily syndicated "Family Feud," and the longest-running game show in television history, "The Price Is Right" for CBS.

FremantleMedia is the production arm of the RTL Group, Europe's largest television and radio broadcast company. With interests in 34 television channels and 30 radio stations in 11 countries, RTL Group is a division of leading integrated media and entertainment company, Bertelsmann AG.

About American Idol:

Twenty-two-time Emmy-nominated AMERICAN IDOL is created and executive- produced by Simon Fuller, founder of 19 Entertainment; and executive-produced by Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO, FremantleMedia North America, Inc.; Nigel Lythgoe, President, 19 Television; and Ken Warwick, Executive Producer, FremantleMedia North America, Inc.

About 19 Entertainment:

19 Entertainment, Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of CKX, Inc. (Nasdaq: CKXE), was founded by Simon Fuller 21 years ago and acquired by CKX in March 2005. The company is recognized as a leading creator, provider and promoter of globally successful, music-based entertainment, or "Entertainment Brands."

Simon Fuller, who serves as Chief Executive Officer of 19 Entertainment, is the creator of AMERICAN IDOL in the United States, "Pop Idol" in the UK, as well as versions of the IDOL format in more than 30 countries around the world. Fuller is also the co-creator of SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE, which aired in the U.S. on FOX during summer 2005 and was the top-rated television show in its time slot.

Fuller has made music history in the UK and the U.S.A., producing a stream of No. 1 hits and managing multi-platinum-selling acts. Fuller recently became the world's most successful manager -- breaking a record set by the Beatles' manager Brian Epstein in the 1960s -- when three of his artists occupied the No. 1, No. 2 and No. 3 positions on the U.S. single chart as well as the No. 1 position on the album chart.

19 Entertainment has been involved in the creation of 109 No. 1 singles and 87 No. 1 albums in the UK alone, with an impressive tally of 296 Top-40 albums and 465 Top-40 singles.

SOURCE Procter & Gamble

 

Feb 27

 

Music World/Columbia Records Announce the Release of BEYONCE'S 'B'DAY Deluxe Edition,' a New Version of the Grammy-Winning Best Contemporary R&B Album Debuting Five Brand New Songs, & Bonus Disk Premiering Six Spanish Tracks

First Single, 'Beautiful Liar,' Is a Spirited Duet With Shakira

Single on Radio in the U.S. Tomorrow: February 28

Video Debuts on MTV and BET Tomorrow: February 28

'B'DAY Deluxe Edition' Available Tuesday, April 3

-- Music World/Columbia Records will release BEYONCE's B'DAY Deluxe Edition, an expanded two-CD edition of the pop icon's best-selling Grammy-winning solo album, on Tuesday, April 3.

On February 11, 2007, B'Day won the Grammy for Best Contemporary R&B Album, bringing Beyonce's lifetime Grammy total up to 10 (seven as a solo artist and three won with Destiny's Child).

In addition to the original 12 tracks from Beyonce's multi-platinum album, Disc One of B'DAY Deluxe Edition premieres five brand-new songs in English: "Kissing You," "Flaws & All," "Welcome To Hollywood," a hidden bonus track, "Worldwide Woman," and the expanded album's first single, "Beautiful Liar," a superstar duet between Beyonce and Shakira. "Beautiful Liar" will be serviced in four versions -- album version, all Spanish version, Spanglish version and a radio edit -- to all radio formats in the U.S. on Wednesday, February 28 at 5PM Eastern Standard Time. The radio play will start a few hours after the video for "Beautiful Liar" debuts on MTV's "TRL." The video will be shown later that afternoon on BET's "106 & Park." Beyonce will appear live on both programs to deliver the video.

Disc Two of the expanded B'DAY Deluxe Edition debuts six new Spanish language tracks including "Amor Gitano," Beyonce's sensuous flamenco-pop duet with Latin Grammy-winning superstar Alejandro Fernandez. Co-written by BEYONCE with Grammy-winning songwriters/recording artists Reyli Barba and Jaime Flores and produced by Grammy-winning producer Rudy Perez, "Amor Gitano" can be heard as the theme music for "Zorro: La Espada y La Rosa (The Sword and the Rose)," a telenovela (serialized television soap opera) on Telemundo (check your local listings).

Rounding out Disc Two of B'DAY Deluxe Edition are Beyonce's Spanish language versions of "Listen (Oye)" and "Irreplaceable (Irreemplazable)" as well as three new mixes of "Beautiful Liar."

Also arriving on Tuesday, April 3 is Beyonce's B'DAY Anthology Video Album. Available exclusively at Wal-Mart Stores Inc., the B'DAY Anthology Video Album includes BEYONCE's videos for "Kitty Kat (intro)"/"Greenlight," "Upgrade U" featuring Jay-Z, "Deja Vu," "Ring The Alarm," "Irreplaceable," "Listen," "Suga Mama," "Get Me Bodied," "Freakum Dress," "Flaws & All," "Kissing You" and "Beautiful Liar" featuring Shakira. As an added bonus, the video collection features fifteen minutes of exclusive behind-the-scene footage.

Beyonce's second solo album, B'DAY, closed out 2006 as one of the year's most successful album, coming in at #7 on Billboard's U.S. Top 10 Best-Selling Albums chart. Certified RIAA double platinum in the U.S., B'DAY has sold more than 4 million copies around the world.

Released around the world on September 4, 2006 (September 5 in the U.S.) to coincide with the artist's 25th birthday, Beyonce's B'DAY entered the Billboard Top 200 at #1, with first week's sales of more than 541,000 pieces, achieving the year's highest first week's sales of any female recording act, group or solo, and the fifth highest chart debut of the year of any artist, male of female. (The pop superstar's first solo album, 2003's Grammy-winning Dangerously In Love, also debuted in the #1 slot.)

B'DAY peaked at #1 on Billboard's Top 200, Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums and U.S. Internet album charts and remains a constant on the upper reaches of the Top 200.

"Deja Vu" (featuring Jay-Z), the first single from B'DAY, reached #1 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop chart and #1 on the Hot Dance Singles Sales chart while its follow-up, "Ring The Alarm," hit #1 on the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart and #3 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop chart. The album's current single, "Irreplaceable," reached #1 on Billboard's Hot 100 Singles chart (10 weeks in a row) and #1 on the R&B Singles chart (9 weeks in a row).

Beyonce may currently be seen starring with Jamie Foxx and Eddie Murphy in the hit Dreamworks and Paramount Pictures film "Dreamgirls."

  www.beyonceonline.com   Fan club: www.welovebeyonce.com   www.houseofdereon.com    www.columbiarecords.com 

Source: Music World/Columbia Records

 

Web site: http://www.columbiarecords.com/
http://www.beyonceonline.com/
http://www.welovebeyonce.com/
http://www.houseofdereon.com/

 

 

2007 CMA Music Festival Artist Lineup Grows

Alan Jackson, Vince Gill, LeAnn Rimes, Dierks Bentley, Trace Adkins, Big & Rich, Gretchen Wilson and Rodney Atkins Are Among Artists to Perform

 The excitement is building for 2007 CMA Music Festival, Thursday-Sunday, June 7-10 in Downtown Nashville as additional artists are added to the performance lineup. Last year more than 161,000 fans attended CMA Music Festival, winner of the International Entertainment Buyers Association's 2006 LIVE! Award for Festival of the Year. Now in its 36th year, the Festival (formerly known as Fan Fair(R)) continues to spotlight the unique relationship between Country Music artists and their fans while raising much-needed funds to support music education in Metro Nashville's public schools through the CMA's charity campaign "Keep the Music Playing."

Trace Adkins, Rodney Atkins, Dierks Bentley, Big & Rich, Vince Gill, Alan Jackson, LeAnn Rimes and Gretchen Wilson are among the latest additions to the star-packed performer lineup. Additional artists added as performers include: John Anderson, Jeff Bates, John Berry, Blue County, Lane Brody, Sarah Buxton, Laura Bryna, Donovan Chapman, Earl Thomas Conley, Bucky Covington, Cowboy Crush, Amy Dalley, Dusty Drake, Katrina Elam, Emerson Drive, Jace Everett, Flynnville Train, Todd Fritsch, Josh Gracin, The Grascals, Andy Griggs, Ty Herndon, Little Texas, Ashley Monroe, Megan Mullins, Gary Nichols, Jerrod Niemann, Michael Peterson, Povertyneck Hillbillies, Julie Roberts, Ray Scott, Jeffrey Steele, Aaron Tippin, Trent Tomlinson, Trick Pony, Gene Watson, Bryan White, Jett Williams, Trent Willmon, Mark Wills and Darryl Worley.

"The CMA Music Festival artist performer lineup truly reflects the diversity of our format," said Tammy Genovese, CMA Chief Operating Officer. "We have today's hitmakers, legends and rising stars from the worlds of contemporary and traditional Country, bluegrass and more. If you want to experience the best of Country Music, you'll find it everywhere you turn during CMA Music Festival."

Performers already announced include Jason Aldean, Bomshel, Catherine Britt, Luke Bryan, Sonny Burgess, Carolina Rain, Eric Church, Cole Deggs & the Lonesome, 2007 CMA Global Country Artist Award winner Adam Harvey, Heartland, Jypsi, Carolyn Dawn Johnson, Blaine Larsen, Little Big Town, The Lost Trailers, Martina McBride, Neal McCoy, Reba McEntire, The Oak Ridge Boys, Jamie O'Neal, Jake Owen, Danielle Peck, Pirates of the Mississippi, Sugarland, Pam Tillis, Carrie Underwood, The Wreckers and Chris Young. Additional artists will be announced in the coming weeks, and surprise artist performances are also being planned.

All of the artists and celebrities participating in CMA Music Festival donate their time and are not compensated for the hours they spend performing, signing autographs and participating in events. In appreciation of their continued support, CMA created "Keep the Music Playing," a charity program in partnership with the Nashville Alliance for Public Education (NAPE), which donates half the net proceeds from CMA Music Festival to music education for Nashville's 73,000 public school students. More than $300,000 was donated from the 2006 CMA Music Festival.

Tickets for 2007 CMA Music Festival, Thursday through Sunday, June 7-10, in Downtown Nashville are available now.

To order tickets for the 2007 CMA Music Festival call 1-800-CMA-FEST (262- 3378); visit www.CMAfest.com to download an order form to fax or mail; visit www.ticketmaster.com to buy online or charge-by-phone at (615) 255-9600.

Four-day ticket packages include the Nightly Concerts at LP Field; Daily Concerts on the Greased Lightning(R) Riverfront Stages; daily admittance to the Fan Fair(R) (Exhibit Hall) featuring the Acoustic Corner; Crisco(R) Family Zone; Fun Zone; The Chevy(TM) Sports Zone; CMA Music Festival After Hours(TM); free in-town shuttles; the CMA Music Festival Program Book; CMA Music Festival pin; special discounts to area attractions, restaurants, shops, and more. Prices do not include applicable handling fees. Ticket prices are subject to change without notice. All sales are final and non-refundable.

For up-to-the-minute information about tickets, travel information, schedules, artist appearances, and more, visit www.CMAfest.com and sign up for the CMA Exclusive e-news.

Once again in 2007, performances at the CMA Music Festival will be filmed for a two-hour, ABC Television Network special that will air later this summer.

CMA Music Festival is organized and produced by the Country Music Association. CMA Board member Tony Conway is the Executive Producer of CMA Music Festival. Premiere Radio Networks is the official radio broadcaster. Chevy. The Official Ride of Country Music. Additional promotional partners include Borders(R) Books & Music, Crisco(R), Greased Lightning Cleaning Products(R), Music Festivals(R) and Wrangler(R). Fan Fair(R) is a registered trademark of CMA.

Source: Country Music Association

Web site: http://www.cmaworld.com/
http://www.cmafest.com/

 

 

Academy Award Winning Director Martin Scorsese to Team Up With Rock and Roll Icon Mick Jagger to Direct and Produce 'The Long Play' for Paramount Pictures

Project Will Re-Team Scorsese With the Academy Award Winner Bill Monahan Who Will Write the Screenplay

Academy Award winning director Martin Scorsese will team up with Rock and Roll icon Mick Jagger to direct "THE LONG PLAY," a film set in the world of the music business spanning over three decades. Project will re-team Scorsese with Academy Award winning writer for "The Departed," Bill Monahan.

Martin Scorsese will direct. Scorsese, Mick Jagger and Victoria Pearman will produce. Film is based on an original idea of Mick Jagger's which he and Pearman's Jagged Films took to Scorsese several years ago. Together they developed the project and brought it to Paramount.

Scorsese recently entered into a four-year, first-look deal with Paramount Pictures to direct and produce entertainment across all platforms including feature films, made-for-DVD, digital content and television for Paramount Pictures and Paramount Vantage. His latest film, "The Departed," was nominated for five Academy Awards(R) and won Best Picture.

Scorsese has directed more than 40 films, including current box office hit "THE DEPARTED," "THE AVIATOR," "GANGS OF NEW YORK," "RAGING BULL," "TAXI DRIVER," and "GOODFELLAS." He is one of the most honored filmmakers in Hollywood, with six each Academy Award nominations and Directors Guild of America nominations. In 2005, he directed and produced the Emmy and Grammy Award-winning documentary "NO DIRECTION HOME: BOB DYLAN."

A music legend for over 30 years, Mick Jagger of the Rolling Stones, whose albums have sold more than 100 million copies worldwide, formed his production company with Victoria Pearman and are currently prepping the remake of The Women; written and to be directed by Diane English, and teamed with Luc Besson's Europa to produce an animated feature called RUBY TUESDAY. Jagged Films produced the award-winning ENIGMA and recently completed a documentary on President Clinton's Global Initiative and they are Executive Producers on ABC's Knights of Prosperity.

Jagger and Scorsese recently collaborated on a Rolling Stones feature length concert documentary shot at The Beacon Theater in New York to be released in the Fall.

Scorsese is represented by Endeavor, Rick Yorn of The Firm and Jake Bloom of Bloom Hergott Diemer Rosenthal & LaViolette LLP. Jagger and Pearman are repped by ICM's Jeff Berg and Ken Kleinberg. Monahan is also repped by Endeavor and David Fox.

About Paramount Pictures

Paramount Pictures Corporation (PPC), a global company that produces and distributes filmed entertainment, is a unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , a leading entertainment content company with prominent and respected brands including Paramount Pictures and DreamWorks. The company's labels include Paramount Pictures, Paramount Vantage, Paramount Classics, DreamWorks, MTV Films and Nickelodeon Movies. PPC operations also include Paramount Digital Entertainment, Paramount Home Entertainment, Paramount Pictures International, Paramount Licensing Inc., Paramount Studios, and Worldwide Television Distribution.

Source: Paramount Pictures Corporation 

 

Autodesk Congratulates Academy Award Winners and Nominees

Numerous Films Created With Autodesk Solutions

- Autodesk, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADSK) congratulates Industrial Light & Magic (ILM) and Animal Logic for their Academy Award-winning work in Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest and Happy Feet, respectively. Autodesk also congratulates ILM, LOLA VFX, Hydraulx, LaserPacific Media Corporation and Blue Sky Studios for their work on the Academy Award-nominated films Poseidon, The Black Dahlia and No Time for Nuts. From visualizing early concepts to finishing and color timing the final pixels, artists rely on Autodesk solutions to achieve their creative vision.

"Congratulations to all the artists who won an Academy Award or were nominated for their stunning work. We salute you," said Marc Petit, Autodesk's Media & Entertainment vice president. "At Autodesk Media & Entertainment, we're dedicated to engineering the best digital tools for filmmaking. We are honored that so many of the nominees and winners trusted our technology."

Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest

For the Best Visual Effects Academy Award-winning film Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest, artists at ILM used the Autodesk Inferno system, as part of the SABRE visual effects system, to transport movie-goers into the wayward world of Captain Jack Sparrow. In one of the scenes shaped with Inferno, Will Turner and the crew of the Black Pearl are held captive in a cage made of bones. The system was used to composite shots of the actors filmed against a blue screen together with a water plate and a digital matte cliff, as well as to add birds, mist and foot bridges to the scene.

For birds-eye-view shots of the port and island, digital artists at ILM used Inferno to remove modern cues such as phone poles and motor boats from the filmed footage, as well as to composite a digital matte of the village. The pirate Ragetti's wooden eye and empty eye socket were also created in Inferno. The system was used to give the eye a dry wooden texture, as well as to light and animate it.

Furthermore, artists at ILM rigged both Davy Jones and the Kraken sea creature's tentacles in Autodesk Maya 3D animation, modeling and rendering software. ILM relied on its proprietary software "Hero" to animate the flowing movement of Davy Jones' tentacles, while Maya was used to animate more specific movements, such as holding a key.

Happy Feet

Australia-based Animal Logic relied on Maya to complete approximately 800 shots for the Academy Award-winning animated feature film Happy Feet. Maya was used to form the facility's complete rendering and lighting pipeline. Rhythm & Hues completed additional animation for the film. Maya was used to adapt Animal Logic's 3D models for use in Rhythm & Hues' proprietary pipeline.

Poseidon

ILM used Maya to create 140 shots for the Best Visual Effects Academy Award-nominated film Poseidon. The movie is a remake of the 1972 classic film about an 1100-foot-long luxury cruise liner that is capsized by a 200-foot wave. Due to the size of the ship and the level of detail desired, the cruise liner was computer-generated and modeled in pieces. In total, Maya was used to model 181,579 renderable pieces that were then fit together to create the ship.

LOLA VFX also worked on 85 shots for Poseidon using the Autodesk Inferno and Autodesk Flame visual effects systems. The facility's sister studio, Hydraulx, helped shape the film as well, delivering 65 shots created with Inferno, Flame, Maya, Autodesk Combustion desktop compositing software and Autodesk Burn background rendering software.

The Black Dahlia

LaserPacific Media Corporation used the Autodesk Lustre digital color grading system to realize a unique look for the Best Cinematography Oscar-nominated movie The Black Dahlia. Colorist Mike Sowa used the system to finalize the film noir feel that had been envisioned by Oscar-winning cinematographer Vilmos Szigmond, ASC.

"I used Autodesk Lustre to add more saturation to the shot footage, as well as to create depth with color and contrast," explained Sowa. "For example, Scarlett Johansson's character was always white and illuminated; while Hilary Swank's dark character was always shown in shadows. The Lustre shape system and rotoscoping capabilities gave me a lot of freedom to play with the shadows in the film until we achieved what Vilmos Zsigmond was looking for."

No Time for Nuts

Blue Sky Studios created the Oscar-nominated animated short film No Time for Nuts with Autodesk Maya. The software was used for pre-visualization, modeling, rigging, layout, animation and some visual effects work. The facility also used Flame for compositing and paint touch-up work.

About Autodesk

Autodesk, Inc. is the world leader in 2D and 3D design software for the manufacturing, building and construction, and media and entertainment markets. Since its introduction of AutoCAD in 1982, Autodesk has developed the broadest portfolio of state-of-the-art digital prototyping solutions to help customers experience their ideas before they are real. Fortune 1000 companies rely on Autodesk for the tools to visualize, simulate and analyze real-world performance early in the design process to save time and money, enhance quality and foster innovation. For additional information about Autodesk, visit www.autodesk.com.

NOTE: Autodesk, AutoCAD, Burn, Combustion, Flame, Inferno, Lustre and Maya are registered trademarks or trademarks of Autodesk, Inc./Autodesk Canada Co., in the USA and/or other countries. Academy Award and Oscar registered trademarks of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. All other brand names, product names or trademarks belong to their respective holders. Autodesk reserves the right to alter product offerings and specifications at any time without notice, and is not responsible for typographical or graphical errors that may appear in this document.

Source: Autodesk, Inc.

 

 

New Artist Spotlight: Cadillac Sky
By Kristen Scherer

 

© 2007 CMA Close Up News Service / Country Music Association, Inc.

When asked about their musical roots, the members of Cadillac Sky answer as a group - "Grandpa's record collection." On their self-produced debut album on Skaggs Family Records, Blind Man Walking, released in January, the bluegrass-inspired quintet - lead vocalist/mandolinist Bryan Simpson, banjo player Matt Menefee, guitarist Mike Jump, fiddler Ross Holmes and bassist Andy Moritz - does show off the kind of instrumentation and respect for tradition that would make their elders proud.

But there's something else going on here. While there's plenty of slick mandolin licks from lead songwriter Simpson and some downright pyrotechnic banjo picking from Menefee, for Cadillac Sky it's delightfully obvious that the song is king. That's where their other big influence - The Beatles - comes through loud and clear.

From the album's leadoff track and debut single, "Born Lonesome" (co-written by Simpson and Bob Regan), to the album's mournful title track, Blind Man Walking serves as a stunning showcase for Simpson's songwriting. He's already listed as writer on songs for top Country artists including, Martina McBride, George Strait and Gretchen Wilson, and he served as co-writer on 12 of the album's 13 tracks. 

Guitarist Jump picked up the remaining songwriting credit, contributing the backwoods biographical "Mountain Man." Originally from Fort Worth, Texas, the members of Cadillac Sky now call Nashville home, and from the innovative and refreshing sound of their debut, this band is definitely going places.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS
(All responses from Bryan Simpson, Cadillac Sky lead vocalist and mandolinist)
Which song would you secretly like to cover?
 "Gnarls Barkley's 'Gone Daddy Gone.'"

What CD is on your stereo?
 "The great Buddy Miller's latest record, Universal United House of Prayer."

What book is on your nightstand?
 "The One Year Bible."

What is your pet peeve?
 "Apathetic soundmen."    

What song do you wish you had written?
 "'It is Well with My Soul.'"

When they look back on your life in 50 years, what do you hope people say about you?
 "They went down swinging."

On the Web: www.cadillacsky.net

 

Ten Questions for "The Mayor of Music Row"
By Peter Cronin

 

© 2007 CMA Close Up News Service / Country Music Association, Inc.

If you work anywhere near Nashville's music business, you're familiar with Charlie Monk. For nearly four decades, Monk has worked tirelessly as a music publisher, producer, radio personality and fulltime booster for Country Music and Music City's thriving creative community. He's such a ubiquitous and beloved figure that he's long been known as "The Mayor of Music Row." He's plugged into so many people and stories from up and down Nashville's musical epicenter that now he's got a show where he gets to play and say whatever he wants on SIRIUS Satellite Radio. Special guests visit Monk in the Nashville studios to share stories.  Monk, who has been with Country Radio Seminar since its inception, is the 2007 recipient of CRB's President's Award, presented annually to "an individual who has made a significant contribution to the marketing, production, growth and development of CRS and the multiple services that Country Radio Broadcasters provides to the Country radio and music communities."

"Charlie is a true Nashville treasure when it comes to the CRB," said CRB President R.J. Curtis. "He has been an active participant for more than 38 years when one considers the pre-planning that went into the first seminar. His care and constant concern for the event and its participants make this award very deserving for him."

Q&A with Charlie Monk, "The Mayor of Music Row"

As you get ready to accept CRB's President's Award, talk a bit about your history with CRS. 
"It was started to give the radio people an opportunity to come together. I was the point man for the first few years and then Judy Harris became the point person, then Frank Mull volunteered and we hired him as the first paid executive director. It's kind of my baby in the sense that I've been part of all of it and it's probably the most successful radio and musical event ever, period. No genre has anything even close to the size and the sizzle factor."

How did you come to Nashville originally? 
"I was in radio in Mobile, [Ala.] for 10 years prior to coming here. I came up to work for a radio station that Mary Reeves, Jim Reeves' widow, and her partner, Tom Perryman owned. I had the first live daily radio show on Music Row, every day from two to four. It was called the 'Charlie Monk Music Row Show.' This was between 1968 and 1970."

What was Music Row like in those days? 
"You could meander into any office or session, you knew literally everybody in the industry, every secretary, every executive on a personal level. Owen Bradley or Chet Atkins, you could just wander into their offices."

The CRS New Faces of Country Music Show, which you originated, has become such an influential and important showcase for up-and-coming acts over the years. How did that come about? 
"With the New Faces Show, we originally had 10 acts and it was, 'These are the 10 acts that have happened or gotten the most notoriety over the last year, and we hope that you'll play their records and we hope that you'll recommend their booking in your area.' It was not entertainment. It was more like education. We didn't have any cocktail parties. We would actually run people out of the bars to get them to the seminar. We had like 95 percent attendance in every session but we had no competing sessions."

What do you think CRS has accomplished over the years? 
"The seminar is responsible for the growth of Country radio. Media people came to the seminar. Maybe they had a bad AM station in a metropolitan market and they were playing pop music, but it wasn't happening because they were competing with another pop station. They switched to Country and the rest is history. So just trying it proved the thing.  If New York or Los Angeles would just try it today."

You've worn several hats during your career - song publisher, on-air personality, producer, consultant. Who is the real Charlie Monk? 
"I am a publisher; that's what I do. Anything I do, radio, consulting, it's all come out of my experience in the music publishing business. I'm probably the oldest guy still walking around with a music publishing company. I've got the current Carolina Rain single ["Isn't She"]. I'm very active, and always have been.  I've served on the board of almost every organization in the industry, and helped to create some of them."

For someone who's been doing it as long as you have, how do you manage to maintain such enthusiasm for the music business? 
"I love it. I am so pumped about the music business. I think we're in an information abyss where we don't know what's going to happen but it's all going to be good. We're doing about half the records on the major label side that we were doing five to seven years ago, but all the independents are flourishing. That gives great leeway for songwriters and music publishers like me. The good old days are tomorrow."

As a co-founder of CRS, a terrestrial radio event, and a consultant at SIRIUS Satellite Radio, what do you think the two could learn from each other? 
"The problem with terrestrial radio is you go to Dallas and the station sounds just like Nashville, and Nashville sounds just like Atlanta, the same records, the same imaging voices, there's nothing local about these radio stations. When I first started, I had a stack of records, Ralph Emery had a stack of records and we played what we wanted, when we wanted."

What is your role with CRS today? 
"I'm kind of the mother hen of the group, a lifetime member of the board. It's my baby and I've put a lot of time into it.  Over these last 38 years, there hasn't been a week that I didn't have something to do with it, and sometimes not a day. But it's very successful, and it really is meaningful for people."

Thinking ahead 10 years, do you think Music Row will be the same creative place it is today? 
"Yes, and I'll still be the mayor."

ABOUT CRS:
CMA is a proud sponsor of the 38th annual Country Radio Seminar, which is hosted by the Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc., and takes place Wednesday, Feb. 28-Friday, March 2, at the Nashville Convention Center in Downtown Nashville. The CMA Performance Hall at NCC, will feature performances from some of the best new and established artists. This year, CRS-38 is bigger and better than ever with the addition of several new events on Wednesday, including:
. "Hall of Fame Panel" featuring inductees for the 2007 class of the Country Radio and Country Music DJ Hall of Fame 
. "What Happens When a Country Station Plays New Music: A Study of the Impact of New Music on a Country Radio Audience" - Insights from Arbitron PPM, Media Monitors and Coleman Insights
. ASCAP sponsored KCRS Live! Songwriter Showcase
In addition to Artist Radio Tape Session (ARTS), the Curb Records luncheon and three additional artist showcases, Toby Keith will perform at the Music City Jam on Wednesday night. 

On Thursday, CRS-38 will welcome keynote speaker Jon Bon Jovi, who has been spending significant time in Nashville writing. The New Jersey-based rocker, who was nominated for a 2006 CMA Award for "Who Says You Can't Go Home," his No. 1 single with Sugarland's Jennifer Nettles, will be interviewed by WSIX/Nashville personality Gerry House.

"I am truly looking forward to my participation in CRS-38," said Jon Bon Jovi. "The success of 'Who Says You Can't Go Home' at Country Radio proves how incredibly active and passionate the format and its listeners are. We are very proud to have been embraced by the community that we have come to love."

Former Chairman and CEO of Citadel Communications Corp., Larry Wilson, will be presented with the Tom Rivers Humanitarian Award during the opening ceremonies.

Also on Thursday is the BMI WCRS Live! Showcase to feature acoustic performances by Sarah Buxton, Mac Davis, Pat Green and host Jeffrey Steele. 

Plus, the annual "Life of a Legend" panel will shine a spotlight on the amazing career of Ronnie Milsap. Eddie Stubbs of WSM-AM/Nashville will serve as moderator on a panel that looks back on the Milsap's hit-filled decades in the music business.

Friday will feature several sales-oriented panels including, "Prospecting: How to Hit the Motherload," "www.clickyourmoneymaker.com" and "Your Baby is Ugly: Why I Won't Buy Radio." 

CRS-38 will present 24 panels over three days focusing on important issues affecting Country radio. For more information and to print an "At A Glance Agenda," visit www.crb.org.

 

The Cat in the Hat Turns 50!

Random House Children's Books Launches Literacy Initiative in Honor of This Important Milestone; Join the National Read-Aloud on March 2nd!

On March 1, Dr. Seuss' beloved classic The Cat in the Hat will celebrate its 50th Birthday. Originally published by Random House in 1957, The Cat in the Hat was embraced widely and enthusiastically, becoming an instant bestseller and turning Dr. Seuss into a household name virtually overnight. Random House has since sold an estimated 10.5 million copies of the book, not including the millions more sold by Random House via a direct mail program administered by Scholastic-at-Home.

Theodor Seuss Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss, wrote The Cat in the Hat in response to a perceived literacy crisis in the United States. In the mid 1950s, many Americans were asking themselves: Why can't Johnny read? In a Life magazine article, Pulitzer Prize-winning author John Hersey maintained that American children couldn't read because the Dick and Jane primers were boring and could not compete with cartoons, comics, and other more fun and interesting stimuli, so he challenged Dr. Seuss to write a story "first graders wouldn't be able to put down." And that's just what Dr. Seuss did, using a vocabulary of only 236 words. Seuss' 236 words revolutionized the way children learn to read, ultimately making an enormous and positive impact on the looming literacy crisis in the United States.

 

 

In honor of Dr. Seuss and his Cat, Random House Children's Books, Dr. Seuss Enterprises, and First Book (a national nonprofit literacy organization) are sponsoring a national initiative -- Project 236 -- to raise awareness of literacy issues and help combat the literacy crisis in the United States. The program's goal is to revolutionize the way children in our country learn to read all over again, by ensuring that all children have access to books. Studies show that access to books remains essential to reading development and recent statistics have shown that while children in middle-income homes have roughly 13 books of their own, in low-income communities, the ratio of books to children is just one book for every 300 children.

Project 236 asks kids, parents, grandparents, caregivers, teachers, librarians, and community leaders: What can you do to make a difference? For example, for every birthday card sent to the Cat in the Hat, Random House will donate one new book to First Book. First Book gives children from low-income families the opportunity to read and own their first new books. Random House is also encouraging readers of all ages to join the Project 236 chorus and read The Cat in the Hat aloud at 2:36 pm on March 2nd -- Dr. Seuss' birthday and the National Education Association's Read Across America Day. Visit www.catinthehat.com for information on how to participate in Project 236 and support local literacy initiatives.

Random House Children's Books is the world's largest English-language children's trade book publisher. Creating books for toddlers through young adult readers, in all formats from board books to activity books to picture books to novels and narrative nonfiction, the imprints of Random House Children's Books bring together world-famous franchise characters, multimillion-copy series, and top-flight, award-winning authors and illustrators. The company's award-winning website, kids@random (www.randomhouse.com/kids), offers an array of materials and activities free of charge for children, parents, and educators. Random House Children's Books is a division of Random House, Inc., whose parent company is Bertelsmann AG, a leading international media company.

First Book is an international nonprofit organization with a single mission: to give children from low-income families the opportunity to read and own their first new books. Through hundreds of local Advisory Boards, the First Book National Book Bank, and the First Book Marketplace, the organization provides an ongoing supply of new books to children participating in community-based mentoring, tutoring, and literacy programs. First Book has provided more than 46 million new books to children in need in thousands of communities nationwide. For more information about First Book, please visit www.firstbook.org.

 

Portal Unlocks the Mysteries of the Jesus Family Tomb

Website explains and explores the discoveries, research and revelations behind the movie Lost Tomb of Jesus

www.jesusfamilytomb.com

 

Today, in New York City, Emmy-winning investigative journalist Simcha Jacobovici, Academy Award winner James Cameron and the Discovery Channel unveiled burial boxes possibly containing the bones of Jesus and of Mary Magdalene. These findings, the basis of Jacobovici's movie Lost Tomb of Jesus, could be earth-shattering to billions of people. Many will have questions and www.jesusfamilytomb.com has the answers.

As the official site for the movie Lost Tomb of Jesus and the companion book The Jesus Family Tomb, www.jesusfamilytomb.com is the definitive resource for investigations of the alternative theories, in-depth articles, empirical evidence and information about those involved in the discoveries and the debate.

Featuring 33 personalized videos with Simcha Jacobovici discussing essential aspects of the discoveries and the movie as well as in-depth research on the history, players and places, www.jesusfamilytomb.com is the portal through which to find answers to the following questions, and many more.

- What is the probability that these are the ossuaries (burial boxes or

"bone boxes") of the holy family?

- How was DNA analysis used? What did DNA testing reveal about the

relationship between Jesus and Mary Magdalene?

- What inscriptions were found on the ossuaries? How have these

inscriptions helped experts piece together the facts surrounding Jesus

Christ's life and death?

- What roles did archaeologists, historians, DNA experts, epigraphers

and robot-camera technicians play in this discovery?

- On the facade of The Jesus Family Tomb is a symbol called a chevron.

What is its meaning?

About Talmor Media: Talmor Media will harness the internet segment of your marketing strategy. Our talented team of programmers, designers, writers and cutting-edge search engine optimization experts know how to create powerful websites. Websites with strength. Websites with authority. Source: Talmor Media

Ludacris, His Foundation, to Be Awarded 2007 Spirit of Youth Award

Grammy-Award Winning Rap Artist and Award-Winning Actor Chris "Ludacris" Bridges and his foundation, The Ludacris Foundation, are being honored with the 2007 National Runaway Switchboard (NRS) "Spirit of Youth" award for their work and dedication in helping America's youth. The announcement was made Monday evening at NRS' Spirit of Youth Launch Party in Chicago.

Ludacris' recent Grammy for Best Rap Album, "Release Therapy," includes a song titled "Runaway Love," which addresses situations many youth in this country face that often times lead them to running away. When the song was released this past fall, it was a natural fit to form a partnership among Ludacris, The Ludacris Foundation and NRS.

"The timing could not have been better with November's National Runaway Prevention Month," said Maureen Blaha, NRS executive director. "Since the release of 'Runaway Love' Ludacris' and The Foundation's commitment to helping runaway youth and letting people know about the help they can receive by calling 1-800-RUNAWAY has only increased."

And it shows. NRS experienced a 17 percent increase in calls to its hotline in 2006, and the number of visitors to its website has nearly doubled from a year ago this month, with significant increases occurring since the partnership formed.

Ludacris and Roberta Shields, president of The Ludacris Foundation, will be presented with the Spirit of Youth awards on Thursday, November 1, 2007, in Chicago.

The National Runaway Switchboard, established in 1971, serves as the federally-designated national communication system for homeless and runaway youth. Recognized as the oldest hotline of its kind in the world, NRS, with the support of more than 150 volunteers, handles an average of 100,000 calls annually -- more than 3 million calls since the organization's inception. NRS provides crisis intervention, referrals to local resources, and education and prevention services to youth, families and community members throughout the country 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Over 10,000 youth have been reunited with their families through NRS' Home Free program done in collaboration with Greyhound Lines, Inc. The NRS crisis hotline is 1-800-RUNAWAY. For more information, visit http://www.1800runaway.org/.

Web site: http://www.1800runaway.org/

 

Xenon Pictures' THE DA VINCI HOAX Debunks the Code!

Respected Scholars Expose the Errors and Falsehoods of Dan Brown's Novel

Additional Titles Include Inspiring Performances By Ray Charles and Mahalia Jackson, and a Biographical Drama on the Life of St. Therese

-- Xenon Pictures has announced today the March 13, 2007 DVD re-release of THE DA VINCI HOAX, a documentary debunking author Dan Brown's fictional theories on the relationship between Jesus Christ and Mary Magdalene, the beginnings of Christianity, and the Catholic Church. This thought-provoking film, hosted by best-selling authors Carl E. Olson and Sandra Miesel, as well as Jesuit biblical scholar Fr. Mitch Pacwa, S.J., exposes the inaccuracies and falsehoods of the popular novel, The Da Vinci Code. The re-release of THE DA VINCI HOAX coincides with the Easter/Passover season, bringing audiences a documentary on an important theological and cultural subject through hard facts and scholarly research.

THE DA VINCI HOAX also contains a special feature, "Debunking the Gospel of Judas" by Father Mitch Pacwa, S.J., along with a 12-page color booklet and study guide. Other special features include deleted scenes and subtitle options in both Spanish and French. THE DA VINCI HOAX will be available at all major retail and online stores for $14.99 (SRP).

Xenon Pictures will also be re-releasing three additional DVD titles on March 13, 2007: RAY CHARLES: SOUL OF THE HOLY LAND, starring the legendary Grammy(R)-winning musician in a 1973 concert performance from Israel; a documentary on gospel icon Mahalia Jackson, MAHALIA JACKSON: THE POWER AND THE GLORY; and THERESE, the biographical drama on the life of St. Therese of Lisieux. All three titles offer families wholesome and inspirational entertainment.

A testament to a great man and a great artist, RAY CHARLES: SOUL OF THE HOLY LAND is a recently discovered documentary of Ray Charles' 1973 tour of Israel, including his sold-out concert in Tel Aviv. The DVD features unforgettable performances that serve as a collectible and lasting memorial to this phenomenal entertainer.

MAHALIA JACKSON: THE POWER AND THE GLORY traces the life of the world's greatest gospel singer, from her beginnings in a New Orleans ghetto to her acclaimed performances at Carnagie Hall and other stages throughout the world. The film features interviews with Rev. Jesse Jackson, author Studs Terkel and Brother John Sellers, and includes an additional two hours of rare television footage of Mahalia singing many of the immortal songs that are the foundation of gospel music.

Known as the "Little Flower," St. Therese of Lisieux, a French Carmelite nun whose personal writings were published posthumously as Story of a Soul, is the subject of the biographical drama, THERESE. Produced by Luke Films, THERESE was the first-ever feature length film to receive an official Vatican endorsement prior to its theatrical release. Based on his popular play about St. Therese, director Leonardo Defilippis adapted, directed and costarred in the film version, with Lindsay Younce in the title role. It is rated PG-13 for mild thematic elements.

Xenon Pictures is offering RAY CHARLES: SOUL OF THE HOLY LAND at the suggested retail price of $19.98; MAHALIA JACKSON: THE POWER AND THE GLORY at $14.99; and THERESE, in a deluxe package that's loaded with extras, at $24.99.

Source: Xenon Pictures

 

 

XM and Knitting Factory Entertainment Live Music Series to Debut March 2 on XMU

'Live From the Knitting Factory on XMU' to Feature Emerging Indie Bands Performing at Knitting Factory Venues in New York and Los Angeles

XM, the nation's leading satellite radio service, in collaboration with Knitting Factory Entertainment (KFE), the leading authority on live emerging music, today announced the alternative music performance series "Live From The Knitting Factory on XMU" will premiere on March 2. Co-created and co-produced by KFE and XMU, XM's indie/college music channel (XM 43), the weekly concert series will feature performances from both up-and-coming and established alternative bands recorded at Knitting Factory clubs in New York and Los Angeles.

Each "Live From The Knitting Factory on XMU" performance will capture the spontaneity and eclectic energy that has been the signature of Knitting Factory concerts, while spotlighting emerging artists across multiple genres. Art Brut, Beauty Pill, Chin Up Chin Up, Georgie James and Portastatic, among others, will be featured during the first season of the series.

The British duo, The Boy Least Likely To, will kick off the new series March 2 during its regular timeslot, Fridays at 10 p.m. ET on XMU (XM 43). The upcoming broadcast schedule for "Live From The Knitting Factory on XMU" also includes:

March 9 - ART BRUT

March 16 - MAZARIN

March 23 - THE BROKEN WEST

March 30 - PORTASTATIC

To coincide with the launch of "Live From The Knitting Factory on XMU," music fans will have access to XMU throughout March on the AOL Radio Network featuring XM. To access XMU or any of the 20 XM channels offered free through AOL's leading web radio service, visit http://www.aolradio.com/ (click on XMU channel 43 beginning March 1).

About XM

XM (NASDAQ:XMSR) is America's number one satellite radio company with more than 7.6 million subscribers. Broadcasting live daily from studios in Washington, DC, New York City, Chicago, the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, Toronto and Montreal, XM's 2007 lineup includes more than 170 digital channels of choice from coast to coast: commercial-free music, premier sports, news, talk radio, comedy, children's and entertainment programming; and the most advanced traffic and weather information.

XM, the leader in satellite-delivered entertainment and data services for the automobile market through partnerships with General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Nissan, Porsche, Subaru, Suzuki and Toyota is available in 140 different vehicle models for 2007. XM's industry-leading products are available at consumer electronics retailers nationwide. For more information about XM hardware, programming and partnerships, please visit http://www.xmradio.com/.

About Knitting Factory Entertainment

Founded in 1987, Knitting Factory Entertainment is America's most prolific presenter of new and emerging musical talent. With more than 5,000 live music performances each year at its multi-stage New York and Hollywood venues, this treasured New York cultural icon has been transformed into a leading national arbiter and filter of 'what's next' in the emerging music scene. Rising stars such as M.I.A., The Arcade Fire, Fall Out Boy, and Sufjan Stevens have all appeared on Knitting Factory stages, as have some of today's best-known artists, such as Beck, PJ Harvey and Death Cab for Cutie, early in their careers.

With a focus on the creation of a national platform with direct, demonstrable contact with the urban active demographic, the Knitting Factory is actively creating a next-generation music venue by developing a presence in the digital content space through unique media partnerships that harness KFE's power as an aggregator of exclusive live performance content.

KFE's Bravo Entertainment division is a leading regional concert promoter with operations across 18 states and wholly owned venues in Boise, Idaho, and Spokane, Wash.

For more information, please visit http://www.knittingfactory.com/.

Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements in this press release include demand for XM Satellite Radio's service, the Company's dependence on technology and third party vendors, its potential need for additional financing, as well as other risks described in XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc.'s Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on 3-9-06. Copies of the filing are available upon request from XM Radio's Investor Relations Department.

Source: XM Satellite Radio

Web site: http://www.xmradio.com/
http://www.aolradio.com/
http://www.knittingfactory.com/

 

From Universal Studios Home Entertainment: In the Last Days of the Human Race One Man Must Protect Our Only Hope in the Provocative and Acclaimed Thriller, Nominated for Three Academy Awards*(R) 'Children of Men'

Available on DVD and HD-DVD With Exclusive Bonus Features March 27, 2007 From Universal Studios Home Entertainment

-- The critically acclaimed, multi-Oscar(R)-nominated "Children of Men," a riveting action thriller of astonishing power and impact set against a backdrop of deception and suspense, comes to DVD and HD-DVD on March 27, 2007 from Universal Studios Home Entertainment. Award-winning director Alfonso Cuaron's ("Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban," "Y Tu Mama Tambien") powerful depiction of a world threatened by extinction stars Academy Award(R) nominees Clive Owen ("Inside Man," "Closer") and Julianne Moore ("The Forgotten," "Far from Heaven"). The supporting cast includes Academy Award(R) winner Sir Michael Caine ("The Prestige," "Batman Begins"), Chiwetel Ejiofor ("Inside Man") and Charlie Hunnam ("Cold Mountain"). With a dazzling array of exclusive bonus features that takes viewers deep inside its fascinating and explosive world, the "Children of Men" DVD is priced at $29.98 SRP. Pre-order close is February 20, 2007.

Adapted from the novel by P.D. James, "Children of Men" brilliantly imagines London in 2027, a world in which humankind has lost the ability to reproduce and one man is asked to risk everything for the survival of the human race. Theo Faron (Clive Owen) believes his activist days are behind him until he is asked to take on a dangerous mission that may save the future of the human race. "Children of Men" also stars Julianne Moore as the leader of the underground opposition group that enlists Theo's help, as well as veteran actor Michael Caine in a witty and wily portrayal of a lapsed idealist trapped in a nightmarish world.

CRITICS HAIL CHILDREN OF MEN

Critics agree "Children of Men" is an extraordinary film. Scott Mantz of "Access Hollywood" declares "Children of Men" as "Powerful, provocative and absolutely brilliant!" The film is packed with "Exhilarating action" according to Peter Travers of Rolling Stone. It is "Magnificent ... a unique and totally original vision," says Pete Hammond, Maxim.

BONUS FEATURES GO BEHIND THE SCENES

The "Children of Men" DVD and HD-DVD include exclusive looks behind-the-scenes with the critically acclaimed film's creators and actors including:

-- Deleted Scenes!

-- Possibility of Hope -- A chilling documentary features the world's

leading futurists and philosophers examining social and economic

shifts that find expression in "Children of Men."

-- Theo and Julian -- In exclusive on-set interviews, actors Clive Owen

and Julianne Moore offer up insights and secrets about the complex and

compelling characters they have created in "Children of Men."

-- Futuristic Designs -- Director Alfonso Cuaron created an original and

dynamic vision of the future for this film. Follow his vision as it

goes from concept to seething cinematic life in this featurette.

-- Visual Effects: Creating the Baby -- Uncover the incredible visual

effects used to create a life-like baby in the film.

-- Men Under Attack -- Children of Men features amazingly realistic

scenes of the chaos and violence and groundbreaking, Oscar(R)-

nominated cinematography by Emmanuel Lubezki, called by Rolling

Stone's Peter Travers "a weaver of visual miracles." This

mini-documentary breaks down two of the most terrifying scenes in the

film -- the cafe explosion and a car under violent attack from all

sides -- to show how the filmmakers created sequences in which "You

don't just watch the scene, you live inside it, ducking each fresh,

ferocious assault."

The HD-DVD version of "Children of Men" will also feature U-CONTROL, Picture in Picture and ADS & PROPAGANDA (Title TBD)

SYNOPSIS

No children. No future. No hope.

In the year 2027, eighteen years since the last baby was born, disillusioned Theo (Clive Owen) becomes an unlikely champion of the human race when he is asked by his former lover (Julianne Moore) to escort a young pregnant woman out of the country as quickly as possible. In a thrilling race against time, Theo will risk everything to deliver the miracle the whole world has been waiting for. Co-starring Michael Caine, filmmaker Alfonso Cuaron's "Children of Men" is the powerful film Pete Hammond of Maxim calls "magnificent ... a unique and totally original vision."

For more information please visit: www.childrenofmen.net

CAST AND FILMMAKERS

Director: Alfonso Cuaron

Written By: Alfonso Cuaron, Timothy J. Sexton, David Arata, Mark Fergus,

Hawk Ostby

Based on the Novel By: P.D. James

Produced By: Marc Abraham, Eric Newman, Hilary Shor, Tony Smith,

Iain Smith

Director of Photography: Emmanuel Lubezki

Production Designers: Geoffrey Kirkland, Jim Clay

Film Editors: Alex Rodriguez, Alfonso Cuaron

Costume Designer: Jany Temime

Music By: John Taverner

Cast: Clive Owen, Julianne Moore, Michael Caine, Clare-Hope Ashitey,

Chiwetel Ejiofor, Charlie Hunnam, Danny Huston

TECHNICAL INFORMATION

DVD

Street Date: March 27, 2007

Pre-Order Close: February 20, 2007

Copyright: 2007 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.

Price: $29.98

Selection Number: 61032513 widescreen, 61032514 full frame

Running Time: 1 Hour 50 Minutes

Layers: Dual Layer

Aspect Ratio: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1

Rating: R

Technical Info:

* English, Spanish, French Dolby Digital 5.1

* Subtitles: English SDH, Spanish, French

 

Universal Studios Home Entertainment is a unit of Universal Pictures, a division of Universal Studios (www.universalstudios.com). Universal Studios is a part of NBC Universal, one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, and marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience. Formed in May 2004 through the combining of NBC and Vivendi Universal Entertainment, NBC Universal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, and world-renowned theme parks. NBC Universal is 80%-owned by General Electric, with 20% owned by Vivendi.

* Writing, Adapted Screenplay; Film Editing; Cinematography

 

 

www.childrenofmen.net

Web site: http://www.ushepublicity.com/

Web site: http://www.universalstudios.com/

Web site: http://www.childrenofmen.net/

 

The Award Goes To ... Oscar Advertiser Hits and Misses

Who Leveraged their $1.7 Million Investment Into Brand Building Gold?

-- The 79th Academy Awards have been handed out to the winners, the best and worst dressed have been anointed, and an analysis of Oscar advertisers and marketers exposes which select advertisers turned 30 seconds of TV time, their websites, strategic search engine marketing as well as red carpet product placement opportunities into big wins.

SendTec, Inc. (BULLETIN BOARD: SNDN) , a progressive full service direct marketing agency, encourages marketers to not only reach out to consumers via television campaigns but to closely align these campaigns with online tactics.

"Consumer behaviors are changing, as evidenced by the ongoing push of Oscar's backstage persona Chris Connelly to visit Oscar.com," extends Eric Obeck, President of SendTec, Inc. "The mainstream television 'experience' now includes website and search engine interaction during programming, and very few events drive this better than the Oscars." So, if the general viewing public was being pushed online by the award ceremony's producers, did advertisers take advantage? SendTec opens the envelope on the big advertising winners and losers of the night:

The Award Goes To:

-- Microsoft - For its trio of "WOW" ads, Windows Vista intermingled

together after the Best Supporting Actress award. Curious and

intriguing, for a moment you had no idea what was being sold during

the first two spots. Microsoft then pulled it all together with the

final spot, pushing the viewer online to find out more by integrating

the "WOW" campaign at http://www.windowsvista.com/ and delivering the

one-two knockout punch. Even more compelling, Microsoft backed up its

campaign with a terrific paid search campaign, wherein if you actually

searched on the keyword phrase "WOW" you received the proper follow-up

communication.

-- Dove - Dove carried on the "user generated" concept employed by

Doritos during the Super Bowl. Integrating an interactive campaign by

encouraging its loyal users to submit their amateur ad, Dove continues

to be the brand of real women. The commercial, showcasing Grey's

Anatomy's "real woman" Sara Ramirez, ended with a call-to-action push

to visit http://www.dovecreamoil.com/ . Here customers can obtain free

samples of the new product and register for the chance to take part in

Dove's next ad campaign -- allowing Dove to collect valuable consumer

information and research. In addition to the tied-in website, Dove

launched an integrated paid search campaign as well as showing up

within branded organic search results.

-- MasterCard - The "Priceless" campaign is back and it delivers again.

With two spots, the Zookeeper and the Free-Spirited Shopper,

MasterCard effectively reached the viewers with a sentimental approach

building an emotional bond between the brand and its target consumer.

Once again, MasterCard understood it's not all about branding; it is

also about getting new cardholders, while getting current members to

interact with the brand at http://www.priceless.com/ . MasterCard has

even stepped in the world of user-generated content by allowing

visitors to submit their "Priceless Picks." Of course, to submit your

pick, you must submit your personal contact information.

-- Cadillac - Cadillac featured Andy Garcia and urged viewers to go to

http://www.mycadillacstory.com/ to tell their Cadillac story.

Searching the term "Cadillac Story" and "Andy Garcia" shows that the

company paid close attention to both paid search and organic search

campaigns.

Going Home Without a Golden Statue:

-- Kodak - Its Oscar campaign focused on communicating its improved and

growing Kodak Kiosk program for on-demand picture printing. However,

if you can't find where this kiosk is in your local area, the

advertisement is worthless. Searching for "Kodak" on Google nothing

is found in the organic results. It will appear in the results for a

paid search, but it will take users a minute to find it buried in the

site navigation.

-- Discovery Channel - They created a beautifully produced commercial, a

terrifically designed mini-site, but nobody will find it. The "Planet

Earth" mini-series promotion is a terrific example of an advertiser

thinking that if you flash a website URL on the screen that people

will actually remember it. If you don't have TiVo, the URL was

http://www.planet-earth.com/ , with the always memorable dashed URL

string. Searches for "planet earth," "discovery channel," "discovery

channel planet earth" or "planet earth mini-series" come up empty.

It's a shame that one of the best micro-websites will remain unseen

... unless they launch a paid search campaign.

-- Apple - Without question, Apple dropped the ball on Oscar night, along

with approximately $5.1 million of ad time promoting the word "Hello."

Was the one second frame that flashed the Apple logo enough to make

sure the audience actually knew the ad was from Apple? By the third

time the ad aired and viewers figured out that it was Apple, they were

left scratching their head on what the product was. And if they went

online to http://www.apple.com/ they would have found out more ... so

long as you had QuickTime installed to view it. Hello?

-- Cold Water Creek - The commercial that featured a woman picking up a

bouquet of flowers and putting them in a vase left the viewers

confused about what the ad was for. Without any mention of a website

for this unfamiliar brand, Oscar viewers could not distinguish if we

were looking for a clothing designer or a flower company.

"Outside of seeing Martin Scorsese finally win his much deserved Oscar, it was a disappointing night of viewing for the Ad executive," shares Tim Daly, SVP of Marketing Strategy at SendTec. "Some advertisers still aren't giving proper consideration to the lost opportunity and even the negative perceptions of consumers when they cannot seamlessly go to a website or a search engine to quickly connect with more information on exactly what was featured in a TV spot."

Going one step further, some big name designers did not need to shell out the $1.7 million ad tag to get attention. Product placement was the name of the game on the red carpet, with Armani, Christian Lacroix, Vera Wang and Valentino making headway by nominees and presenters who carried their gowns. Unfortunately, those designers savvy enough to gain product placement did not take the next step of placing their paid search ads in context of relevant key words like celebrity names.

Armani ruled the red carpet with Cate Blanchett's metallic Armani Label dress and Beyonce's green Armani dress prompted the "who are you wearing" question from all the interviewers. Calvin Klein got prime attention when the interviewer on E! Entertainment told supporting actor nominee Djimon Hounsou that she knew what kind of underwear he was wearing thanks to a text message she received from Calvin Klein's publicist. Prompted by this, E! correspondent Ryan Seacrest showed his briefs, announcing that he is also wearing Calvin Klein. This was followed by an interview on ABC 7 with Emily Blunt, accompanied by a caption promoting her sparkling blue Calvin Klein gown. Valentino also had a strong presence with Anne Hathaway and Kate Winslet. Van Cleef jewelry got a mention by Hathaway who said that "she wanted to wear every diamond available" as this was her first ever Oscars. Vogue's Andre Leon Ralley doing fashion reviews on ABC gave thumbs up for Jada Pinkett Smith's golden Caroline Herrera gown, giving great exposure for this designer.

"In future years, we anticipate that the smartest brands will be better prepared when a fashion minded person goes directly to a search engine after watching the Oscars red carpet show to try to find out who was wearing what," said Obeck.

About SendTec

SendTec, Inc. (BULLETIN BOARD: SNDN) , is a seasoned leader in providing innovative technology solutions and a full complement of agency services to ROI-minded advertisers. SendTec is widely recognized for effectively integrating and optimizing online and offline marketing campaigns, most of which leverage SendTec's expertise in search engine marketing and/or direct response television. SendTec is headquartered in St. Petersburg, Florida with offices in New York City and Chicago. Clients include Intuit, Toyota, Orkin, RealNetworks and Conde Nast. http://www.sendtec.com/

 

Web site: http://www.sendtec.com/

 

MovieTickets.com Gets a Second Life

Leading Online Movie Ticketing Provider Offers Second Life Residents a Virtual Experience With Real World Impact

MovieTickets.com (www.movietickets.com) has opened a virtual movie theater within Second Life(R) designed to offer residents real world ticketing, movie-related content and participation in various promotional programs. By building on a ticket-shaped island within the popular Second Life, MovieTickets.com, the most powerful online ticketing provider, becomes the first to offer ties to a real time movie ticketing option within such a virtual world.

"Within the virtual theater, possibilities are endless. We hope that the MovieTickets.com island will help stimulate the convergence of virtual and real world movie-going experiences through ecommerce and a community spirit," said Joel Cohen Vice President, Business Development, MovieTickets.com. "Movie-going serves as one of the most popular entertainment commerce categories, and we expect to answer this demand with a compelling and creative entertainment destination."

While on the island, Second Life residents can view trailers of the top 10 movies at the box office, interact and share thoughts with other viewers and purchase real world movie tickets - all courtesy of MovieTickets.com. MovieTickets.com will also provide a dynamic environment by updating trailers and content on a regular basis, as well as building consumer-driven promotions with movie studios and media providers.

Additional MovieTickets.com plans include using the MovieTickets.com island to conduct research within this unique test environment. These possibilities include administering interactive polling or even simulating innovative theater concepts for the exhibition industry.

MovieTickets.com will also develop compelling promotional programs specifically for this audience. For a limited time, the new MovieTickets.com island is offering free MovieTickets.com T-shirts, popcorn and 3D glasses to visitors.

Second Life is a registered trademark of Linden Research.

MovieTickets.com exhibitors currently include:

Academy 8 Theaters, Access Digital Theatres, All Star Entertainment, AMC Theatres, Amherst Cinema Art Center, Arena Grand Theatre, Ashbrie Cinemas, Atlantic Theaters, Atlas Cinemas, Brooklyn Academy of Music, Bryn Mawr Movie Theatre Co., Camera Cinemas, Celebrity Theatres, Channelside Cinemas, Cinema Centers, Cinema Four-Quad, Cinemagic Movies, Cinemall, Classic Cinemas, Clearview Cinemas, Cleveland Cinemas, Consolidated Theatres, Cornelius Cinemas, Crown Theatres, Dickinson Theatres, Drexel Theatres, Eastern Shores, Emagine Entertainment, Entertainment Retail (Hollywood Hits), Famous Players, Film Forum, Fine Arts Theatre - Beverly Hills, Fox Bay Cinema Grill, Foxmoor Movies, Greater Huntington Theatres, Greenville Cinemas, Hallett Cinemas, Harkins Theatres, HLB Entertainment, Hollywood Cinema 9, Hollywood Premier Cinemas, IFC Center, Kew Gardens (Cobble Hill), Krikorian Premiere Theatres, Landmark Theatres, M Park 4, Main Street Cinemas, Malco Theatres, Mann Theatres, Marcus Theatres, Marquee Cinemas, Metropolitan Theatres, MJR Theatres, MnM Theatres, MovieMax Theatres, Narberth Theatre, National Amusements, Nelsonville Movies 10, Oasis Cinema, Omniplex Theatre Group, O'Neil Theatres, Pacific Theatres, Paris Theater, Penn Cinema, Phoenix Theatres (MI), Phoenix Theatres (TN), Pickwick Theatres, Premiere Cinemas, Rave Motion Pictures, Reading Cinemas USA (City Cinemas), Rio Entertainment, Ritz Theatres, Riviera Cinemas, Roxy Theatres, Santikos Theaters, Sayville Theatre, Sea Turtle Cinemas, Silver Screen Cinemas, Spotlight Theatres, Studio Movie Grill, Sunrise Cinemas, Tango Theaters, Trans-Lux Cinemas, UltraStar Cinemas, Watson Theatre, Wellfleet Cinemas, and Westates Theatres.

About MovieTickets.com

MovieTickets.com, the most powerful Internet movie ticketing service, provides consumers with the ease of a virtual box office from the convenience of their home or office. Formed in the spring of 2000, MovieTickets.com is a joint venture between AMC Entertainment, Hollywood Media Corp, National Amusements, Famous Players, Marcus Theatres, Viacom, and AOL, thus allowing the company to effectively leverage the collective exhibitor expertise to deliver consumers a premium movie ticketing experience. MovieTickets.com enables consumers to buy tickets online for movie screens across the United States and Canada, and in the U.K. Its elite collection of partner theaters consistently represents over 50% of the top 50 and over 50% of the top 100 grossing theaters in North America on any given weekend. The MovieTickets.com Exhibitor group, which includes nearly 90 theater chains, is more than triple the amount of its nearest competitor.

Web site: http://www.movietickets.com/

 

Grace Slick at Wentworth Gallery Garden City April 14 & 15

Former Lead Singer of Jefferson Airplane Presents a Collection of Original Paintings and Limited Editions

Wentworth Gallery () is pleased to announce that rock icon Grace Slick will bring her latest art collection to Garden City making two special appearances at Wentworth Gallery located at Roosevelt Field Mall on April 14-15.

With microphone in hand, Grace Slick once took to the stage and defined a generation. Her soulful, powerful voice resonated with a specific time - the 1960s - and place - San Francisco -- like few other performers in rock and roll history.

In fact, with Slick front and center, Jefferson Airplane made history again in 1996 when the group was inducted into The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum.

Over the next 20 years, Slick maintained her iconic rock and roll status, recording countless classic songs with Jefferson Airplane & Starship.

But in 1989, Slick put down her microphone and picked up a paintbrush and has now made a new name for herself as an accomplished artist. Creating an incredible collection of original paintings and limited editions, Slick presents a range of subjects including portraits of legendary musicians Janis Joplin, Jim Morrison, Jimi Hendrix, Mick Jagger, Jerry Garcia, to name a few. The exhibit also features "The Wonderland Suite."

Today, Slick lives and works in Malibu, CA

 

Web site: http://www.wentworthgallery.com/

 

Treat Williams, Samaire Armstrong and Kevin Pollak Star in the Lifetime Original Movie 'The Staircase Murders' from Lionsgate, a Riveting Crime Story Based on Actual Events of a Best-Selling Novelist Accused of Murdering His Wife Premiering Sunday, April 15

Real Case Has Captured the Attention of Millions with Extensive Media Coverage on NBC's Dateline, ABC's Primetime Live, CNN and Court TV

Special Encore Presentation to Air Monday, April 16

Treat Williams ("Brothers & Sisters," "Everwood"), Samaire Armstrong ("Entourage," "The O.C.") and Kevin Pollak ("The Usual Suspects") star in the Lifetime Original Movie, "The Staircase Murders," a provocative drama based on the actual events of the famed murder case involving Michael Peterson, the novelist accused of killing his socialite wife in their North Carolina home. Production is underway in Louisiana. Produced by Lionsgate, "The Staircase Murders" premieres Sunday, April 15, at 8PM ET/PT, with a special encore airing on Monday, April 16, at 9PM ET/PT, on Lifetime Television.

In "The Staircase Murders," loving father, aspiring politician and successful New York Times best-selling novelist Michael Peterson (Williams) was the picture perfect husband to his wife Kathleen. But when a panic- stricken Michael frantically calls 911 to report Kathleen has accidentally fallen down the stairs, investigators arrive at their home to discover several suspicious findings at the crime scene and soon begin to question the truth about Kathleen's death.

Michael's children, biological sons Todd and Clayton from a previous marriage, adopted daughters Margaret and Martha and step-daughter Caitlin (Armstrong), quickly rally to their father's defense until autopsy findings reveal Kathleen's injuries could not have been sustained by a fall. Shocked and betrayed by her accused step-father's actions, Caitlin breaks rank with the family to publicly accuse Michael of murder.

All the while, Michael consistently maintains his innocence, even going so far as to allow cameras into his home to document his legal team's defense strategies. But as the trial looms, shocking discoveries about Michael's sexuality, previous marriage, war service and the mysteriously similar circumstances of an old friend's death are revealed, making even his own lawyer, David Rudolf (Pollak), question his client.

"The Staircase Murders" is produced by Lionsgate for Lifetime Television. Judy Polone ("Widow on the Hill," "Infidelity") serves as executive producer and Judy Cairo ("One Day") produces. Aphrodite Jones ("American Justice"), who wrote the book, A Perfect Husband, on which this movie is based, serves as co- producer. Tom McLoughlin (Lifetime Television's "Odd Girl Out," "Murder in Greenwich") directed and Donald Martin ("The Amber Frey Story," "Family Sins") wrote the screenplay.

Lionsgate (NYSE:LGF) is the leading independent filmed entertainment studio, winning last year's Best Picture Academy Award(R) for CRASH, generating two consecutive years of $300 million-plus domestic theatrical box office, operating a $500 million-plus home entertainment business and producing a broad slate of primetime television series for fiscal 2007. It is a premier producer and distributor of motion pictures, television programming, home entertainment, family entertainment, and video-on-demand content. Its prestigious and prolific library is a valuable source of stable, recurring revenue and a foundation for the growth of the Company's core business. The Lionsgate brand is synonymous with original, daring quality entertainment in markets around the world.

Lifetime is the leader in women's television and one of the top-rated basic cable television networks. A diverse, multi-media company, Lifetime is committed to offering the highest quality entertainment and information programming, and advocating a wide range of issues affecting women and their families. Lifetime Television, LMN, Lifetime Real Women, Lifetime Home Entertainment and Lifetime Online (http://www.lifetimetv.com/) are part of Lifetime Entertainment Services, a 50/50 joint venture of The Hearst Corporation and The Walt Disney Company.

Web site: http://www.lifetimetv.com/
http://www.lifetimepress.com/

 

Sony Brings High-Definition Photo Viewing to the Living Room

Designed to make photo-viewing crystal clear, Sony today announced a new line of digital cameras featuring a high-definition component output. These new Cyber-shot(R) W-series cameras offer direct connection to an HDTV, which is ideal for integrating full 1080 HD photo-viewing into a home theater.

At the top of the line is the DSC-W200 camera, the most compact 12-megapixel camera in the industry. It is followed by the 8-megapixel DSC-W90 unit and the 7.2-megapixel DSC-W80 model. All sport Carl Zeiss(R) 3x optical zoom lenses; traditional, eye-level viewfinders; and large, 2.5-inch LCD screens wrapped in sleek metal bodies.

Seeing Is Believing in High Definition

"As HDTV becomes more pervasive in American households, it is only natural to want to view all of your content in high definition, including photos," said Phil Lubell, director for digital cameras at Sony Electronics. "Our new cameras support a shift in customer behavior -- from viewing digital photos on a PC to having a full entertainment experience in the living room."

Sony is offering three accessory options to begin enjoying high-definition photo viewing. The new cameras are compatible with the Sony VMC-MHC1 high-definition component cable for simple connection to an HDTV set.

The cameras can also be used with the new Sony CSS-HD1 high-definition Cyber-shot Station(R), which comes with the component cable. You can connect the cameras to the station just one time, and it will also work as a charger for the camera.

For complete integration into your home theater system, there is the DSC-W80HDPR kit, which bundles a DSC-W80 camera and Sony's DPP-FPHD1 printer package. This package consists of the VMC-MHC1 high-definition component cable, a Cyber-shot cradle, a remote commander, and a digital photo printer with high-definition component output.

This new printer lets you print photos on the spot in about 45 seconds. Designed to complement any living room, it comes in elegant black and can be positioned horizontally or vertically.

All of the new cameras feature a built-in slide show function. You can play back your images with pans, fades and wipe transitions set to your choice of music clips.

Reduce Your Chances of Taking Bad Photos

With these cameras, you can be more confident in your ability to take properly-exposed, sharp photos. All incorporate Sony's new face detection technology, which can identify up to eight faces in the camera's LCD frame, and automatically adjust white balance and flash as well as focus and exposure.

If you decide that the flower arrangement should be in the picture as well, the new multi-point auto focus (AF) feature can automatically determine the right focus of up to nine points in the camera frame, rather than focusing on what is in the middle of the frame.

You can easily knock out blurry photos, especially in challenging low-light conditions. The cameras incorporate Super Steady Shot(R) optical image stabilization to safeguard against blur caused by camera shake. Their high sensitivity (up to ISO3200) settings can help to fight blur associated with fast-moving subjects. Sony's Clear RAW (TM) noise reduction technology will minimize picture noise common to images shot at high ISO levels.

Edit On The Fly

The new W-series models incorporate selectable in-camera editing functions that can save you from hours of post-editing time at the computer. Equipped with Sony's Dynamic Range Optimizer, the cameras can analyze captured image data and instantly determine the best exposure and tonality of each picture before JPEG compression.

Other helpful in-camera functions include red-eye correction and retouching effects. You can create artistic photos with the soft edge filter that emphasizes a focused subject by blurring the background. The partial color filter highlights the subject by letting it remain in color while making the background black-and-white. Photos can be enhanced with the cross filter that adds four-point star effects to the light in an image, and enlivened with the fish-eye filter for an amusing fishbowl effect.

Shoot At The Speed of Life

All of the new cameras are powered by the Bionz(TM) processing engine, first used in Sony's Alpha digital SLR camera system. This newly-added circuitry delivers the fast image processing speeds needed to produce color rich, detailed pictures for true high-definition photo viewing.

The Bionz engine also helps to speed up the cameras' response times and extend battery life. On a full chare, the W90 camera can shoot up to 350 shots, the W80 model up to 340 shots and the W200 unit up to 270 shots.

The silver W200 camera will ship in May for about $400. The W90 camera will be available in March for about $300 in black and silver. The W80 model will be hit stores in March for about $250 in pink, white, black and silver. Options will include batteries, travel chargers, lenses, filters, sports packs and cases. The DSC-W80HDPR kit will be available for about $400 in April. All products can be purchased online at sonystyle.com, at Sony Style(R) retail stores (www.sonystyle.com/retail), and at authorized dealers nationwide. Pre-orders begin on Feb. 28 at www.sonystyle.com/newcameras.

 

Web site: http://www.sonystyle.com/retail

Web site: http://www.sonystyle.com/newcameras

Web site: http://www.sonystyle.com/

 

 

'The Lushan Addiction': An Action-Packed Tale of Intrigue, Espionage and Revenge

-- In "The Lushan Addiction" (now available through AuthorHouse), author Warren Shulman weaves a saga of intrigue, espionage and revenge that includes a fallen agent's return to the fold, his love of two women and the vengeance of his sworn enemy.

In an exciting tale spanning three decades and two continents, retired CIA operative, West Lambert returns to help the agency discover the secret behind a cutting-edge computer chip which could change the economic balance of power in the world. Traveling to Hong Kong, Lambert meets and enlists the aid of a beautiful martial arts master, Ching Ping. They discover that a revolutionary drug, "Joss," developed by Shih Liping, Lambert's nemesis from his early days in Laos, is responsible for the industry-changing success and could be a catalyst for dramatic increases in American productivity.

The CIA seeks to gain control of Joss and hatches a plot wherein Lambert is covertly dropped into Lushan with the task of stealing the formula. There, he is betrayed by Ping with whom he has become romantically involved. Lambert is devastated when Shih reveals that he deliberately inserted Joss into American culture because he has the ability to alter its molecular structure, thereby rendering it highly addictive. Shih boasts that, years earlier, he staged an explosion to make it appear that Lambert's first love, Bergita, perished. In reality, Shih took Bergita captive, raped her and conceived Ping. In a rage, Ping attacks and mortally wounds Shih. She and Lambert destroy the Joss manufacturing plant before escaping to America with the prized secret formula.

In the dramatic conclusion, Lambert and Ping share a night of tenderness and passion in an effort to rekindle their romance. Ping hears Lambert call out Bergita's name in his sleep and decides that their relationship can never work. As she stands over her lover, with the power to slay him, she must make a heart-wrenching decision that will forever alter her life.

Shulman is a graduate of the University of Georgia law school. Early in his career, he was a distinguished covert operations officer with the CIA. At the height of the Vietnam War and China's cultural revolution, he served in Hong Kong, running clandestine operations into China and North Vietnam. After leaving the CIA, Shulman became a prominent trial attorney and also served as CEO of two multi-million-dollar companies. He recently retired from practicing law, but serves as a mediator/special master on a part-time basis in Atlanta, where he is currently writing his second novel.

AuthorHouse is the premier publishing house for emerging authors and new voices in literature.
jrensink@authorhouse.com

Web site: http://www.authorhouse.com/

 

Sidewinder Music and VH1 Classic Records to Release VH1 Classic 'Metal Mania Stripped Volume 3' on Tuesday, March 6th

Fourth Project in the Successful Metal Mania Stripped Series to Again Feature Acoustic Cuts by Some of Rock's Biggest Names

Metal fans have spoken, so get ready to turn the volume up to "11" as Sidewinder Music and VH1 Classic Records will be releasing VH1 Classic Metal Mania Stripped Volume 3, on Tuesday, March 6th.

The new CD release will once again feature rare and never before heard acoustic versions of some of metal's greatest songs by some of the genre's biggest names.

This is the fourth release in the successful Stripped series (Volume I: The Ballads and Volume 2: The Anthems, along with the Metal Mania Stripped Across America Live! DVD).

Just like the others that preceded it, Metal Mania Stripped Volume 3 is another acoustic collection of some of metal's biggest hits, all of which have proudly stood the test of time.

All in all, fifteen unforgettable tracks, ten of which have never been heard before!

Those returning to the Stripped series with an appearance on Volume 3 include such artists as Poison, Queensryche, Tesla, Slaughter, Dokken and Firehouse along with Tom Kiefer of Cinderella, Jani Lane (former lead singer and songwriter of Warrant) and Winger.

New artists to the Metal Mania "scene" include Accept, Autograph, Kix, Eric Martin from Mr. Big, RATT and Shaw*Blades. The latter duo, featuring Tommy Shaw of Styx and Jack Blades of Night Ranger fame, come at you full force with an entirely new unplugged version of "High Enough," a huge hit song (reaching #3 on the Billboard charts) from their collaboration in the super group Damn Yankees.

Other well-known hits on the forthcoming Metal Mania Stripped Volume 3 disc include Cinderella's "Nobody's Fool" (the premiere power balled from their '86 release, Night Songs), Tesla's "Signs" (their 1991 remake of the early 70's hit from the Five Man Electrical Band), Firehouse's "When I Look Into Your Eyes" (a Top Ten single spawned from their sophomore effort, Hold Your Fire), Slaughter's "Up All Night" (a Top 40 single from their 1990 debut album, Stick It To Ya, recorded at the Key Club in Los Angeles), Warrant's "Heaven" (an unexpected smash hit from '89's Dirty Rotten Filthy Stinking Rich that reached #2 on the singles charts) performed by original Warrant lead vocalist Jani Lane, and "Don't Close Your Eyes," the breakthrough power ballad for Kix that would hit #11 on the Billboard charts.

Tesla's "Signs" practically launched the "unplugged" movement as it was one of the first acoustic hits of the 90's. "'Signs' will always be one of my all-time favorites," states Tesla's lead singer, Jeff Keith. "It has such a powerful message that a lot of people can relate to, including myself. Even stripped down to acoustic guitars, this one still comes out a winner."

In addition to those tracks, other hits performed acoustically include "Balls to the Wall" (Accept), "In My Dreams" (Dokken), "Just Take My Heart" (performed by Eric Martin of Mr. Big), "Turn Up The Radio" (Autograph) and Winger's "Headed for a Heartbreak," along with three previously unreleased MTV Unplugged recordings by Poison ("Unskinny Bop"), Queensryche ("The Killing Words") and RATT ("Way Cool Jr.").

Although original RATT vocalist Stephen Pearcy provided an acoustic rendition of "Round and Round" for Metal Mania Stripped Volume 2: The Anthems, he's featured with his RATT band mates -- Warren DeMartini, Juan Croucier and Bobby Blotzer -- for an acoustic version of the band's hit, "Way Cool Jr.," from MTV Unplugged.

"I remember messing with the idea for 'Way Cool Jr.,' as RATT were in a very grueling situation for that record," remembers Pearcy. "I liked the idea and the whole swing element about the song. So Warren and I started talking about who is "Way Cool" and what does he like to groove to... The end result surprised us and it came out great! Thoroughly nasty with a great groove. It's been a fan favorite in concert ever since it came out... The tune simply rocks unplugged, which is why we included it in our MTV Unplugged set... We're glad it's being released on the Metal Mania CD for all RATT fans to enjoy."

VH1 Classic Metal Mania Stripped Volume 3 promises to rock metal maniacs everywhere!

Launched in May 2000, VH1 Classic is a 24-hour network that presents videos, concerts and music specials all day long, featuring the best of rock, soul and pop artists from the 60s, 70s, 80s and early 90s, including The Beatles, The Stones, Tina Turner, Led Zeppelin, Marvin Gaye, The Who, Stevie Wonder, The Police and many more. Learn more at www.vh1classic.com.

Please include your address in your response when requesting the CD.

www.metalmaniastripped.com

www.sidewinder-music.com

www.vh1classic.com

Track Listing (not in sequential order)

"Balls To The Wall" Accept

"Turn Up The Radio" Autograph

"Nobody's Fool" Tom Kiefer (Cinderella)

"In My Dreams" Dokken

"When I Look Into Your Eyes" Firehouse

"Don't Close Your Eyes" Kix

"Just Take My Heart" Eric Martin (Mr. Big)

"Unskinny Bop" Poison (MTV Unplugged)

"The Killing Words" Queensryche (MTV Unplugged)

"Way Cool Jr." RATT (MTV Unplugged)

"High Enough" Shaw*Blades

"Up All Night" Slaughter

"Signs" Tesla

"Heaven" Jani Lane(formerly of Warrant)

"Headed For A Heartbreak" Winger

 

Web site: http://www.vh1.com/
http://www.metalmaniastripped.com/
http://www.sidewinder-music.com/
http://www.vh1classic.com/

 

Feb 26

BitTorrent, Inc. Launches the BitTorrent Entertainment Network

MGM Is Latest Hollywood Studio to Join the BitTorrent Network, Which Offers Thousands of Movies, TV Shows, Music and Games

 Feb. 26, 2007 BitTorrent, the global standard for delivering high-quality media over the Internet, today announced the launch of the BitTorrent Entertainment Network at BitTorrent.com. The new network features the most comprehensive library of downloadable digital entertainment ever amassed on the Web, including content from 20th Century Fox, Lions Gate, MTV Networks, Paramount Pictures, Warner Bros. Home Entertainment and BitTorrent's newest partner, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios, Inc. (MGM). The BitTorrent community will have the flexibility to rent movies, purchase television shows and music videos, and even publish and share their own high-quality content to be displayed alongside titles from the world's largest studios.

"The BitTorrent Entertainment Network is created by and for the BitTorrent Generation, which has a vast appetite for high-quality, on-demand entertainment," said Ashwin Navin, President and Co-founder of BitTorrent. "BitTorrent.com engages our community to contribute in profound ways -- whether it's by evangelizing their favorite titles; by submitting content they've created; or by contributing their bandwidth to enable faster downloads and an improved entertainment experience. Our uniqueness lies in the strength of our community, delivery technology, and the industry's most comprehensive catalog of digital content."

"As a leading entertainment content supplier across all media platforms, MGM is pleased to have such a significant role in launching BitTorrent's groundbreaking and valuable online consumer destination," said Rick Sands, COO, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios, Inc. "MGM's library, the world's largest modern library of high quality film and television entertainment programming, appeals to a wide range of consumers and should drive significant traffic to the new BitTorrent Entertainment Network."

BitTorrent's newest entertainment network partner is MGM, the legendary Hollywood studio and owner of the world's largest modern film library. With a roster of over 35 content partners, BitTorrent is offering a breadth and depth of content not found in any other download service. At launch, the network at BitTorrent.com will feature over 5,000 titles of movies, TV shows, PC games and music content, as well as over 40 hours of high-definition (HD) programming. Consumers will be able to enjoy both new releases and catalog movie titles such as "Superman Returns," "Mission: Impossible III," "World Trade Center," "Jackass: Number Two," "An Inconvenient Truth," "Napoleon Dynamite," "Sideways," and "Thomas Crown Affair." TV programming will include hits such as "24" and "Prison Break" from 20th Century Fox; "My Super Sweet Sixteen" from MTV: Music Television; "Celebrity Deathmatch" from MTV2; "Muscle Car" and "Xtreme 4x4" from Spike TV; Emmy and Peabody-Award winning "South Park" and "Mind of Mencia" from COMEDY CENTRAL; "Hogan Knows Best" and "Breaking Bonaduce" from VH1; "SpongeBob SquarePants" and "Avatar: The Last Airbender" from Nickelodeon; "Skyland" from Nicktoons Network

"BitTorrent has the infrastructure, technology and established user base to significantly move the needle on digital distribution with quick, easy and affordable delivery," said Thomas Lesinski, President, Paramount Pictures Digital Entertainment. "The final piece of the puzzle is a wide array of content and Paramount is very pleased to be providing a vast selection of filmed entertainment to the site."

"MTV Networks is constantly seeking new avenues for our consumers to access our content and to deliver it to them across multiple platforms," said Mika Salmi, President, Global Digital Media, MTV Networks. "With BitTorrent's new entertainment network, our content gains another high-quality, user-friendly touchpoint to connect audiences with their favorite programming."

BitTorrent's entertainment network can also be utilized as a distribution platform for independent content creators. Be it film, TV programming, music or podcasts, BitTorrent's self-publishing capability offers artists an instant global audience through a personalized BitTorrent URL and online presence. "We're leveling the playing field for independent artists who have been turned away by publishers who are traditionally bound by scarce distribution alternatives and limited shelf space. Our entertainment network is a true marketplace that embraces and welcomes contribution from the independents, allowing them to reach a vast user base with their high-quality creative expression," said Navin.

Despite the breadth and depth of BitTorrent's entertainment library, consumers can expect a very simple and straightforward pricing model. The site offers content for free, for rent and for purchase. Movie rentals are $3.99 and $2.99 for new release and catalog titles, respectively. TV shows and music videos are download-to-own at $1.99 each. There will also be a significant collection of HD titles available. Furthermore, a wide variety of entertainment content will be offered for free and without digital rights management (DRM), designed to be distributed across all platforms.

"Digital distribution represents a significant new revenue stream for the entertainment industry, but up until now, it has been hindered by the combination of long download times and the lack of good content for people to download," said Rob Enderle, Principal Analyst for the Enderle Group. "BitTorrent has aggressively addressed both problems; first with their unique technology, which moves content closer to the customer and dramatically lowers the amount of time it takes to acquire it, and second with their unusually strong content library. In addition, the fact that they start with 135 million existing clients is incredibly powerful and makes them, at launch, a real force to be reckoned with in this market."

About BitTorrent

BitTorrent is the global standard for delivering high-quality files over the Internet. Millions of users worldwide are using BitTorrent's leading peer-assisted content delivery platform to publish, discover and download digital entertainment content quickly, easily and securely. Founded in 2004, BitTorrent is a privately held company backed by venture capital firms, Accel and DCM (formerly known as Doll Capital Management). The company is headquartered in San Francisco, California. For more information, visit http://www.bittorrent.com.

BitTorrent is a trademark of BitTorrent, Inc

 

IBM Report Indicates Hundreds of Billions Up for Grabs in Media and Entertainment Industry

IBM Releases Recommendations for the Industry on How to Navigate the Media Divide

IBM (NYSE: IBM) Global Business Services unveiled its new report, "Navigating the Media Divide: Innovating and Enabling New Business Models," which offers a list of actions that companies can take to navigate the conflict threatening traditional content owners and media distributors. IBM calls this conflict the "Media Divide."

To examine the inherent tension between new and traditional media and explore future industry scenarios, IBM conducted a comprehensive study that included interviews with leaders of media companies and an in-depth analysis of the factors that are shaping the industry outlook. The IBM report shows that new forms of media will grow at 23 percent compound annual rate in the next four years, nearly five times that of traditional media businesses. The report also estimates that the music industry lost between $90-160 Billion in its transition to digital and finds that future implications are even greater for television and film if companies do not systematically navigate the media divide.

"The current clash between traditional and new media has reached a fevered pitch. Industry incumbents are responding -- but perhaps not quickly or completely enough," said Steven Abraham, Global Industry Leader, IBM Media & Entertainment. "Now is the time to determine changes in business models, innovate and re-evaluate partnerships. Content owners and media distributors must take action before it's too late."

IBM sees a clear delineation between the old and new worlds of media. In the traditional world, content produced by professionals and distributed through proprietary platforms still dominates. But in the new world, content is often user-created and accessed through open platforms. These polarized tendencies mark the clear and present conflict between incumbents and new entrants. A second conflict is emerging among existing players -- between traditional content owners (studios, game publishers and music labels) and media distributors (television affiliates, retailers, motion picture exhibitors, cable and satellite providers). This media divide is pitting partner against partner in a struggle for growth.

As a result, IBM is releasing ten specific recommendations that are designed to help companies address the immediate challenge of reinvention for the new media world. But they are also meant to help navigate the media divide that could send them in a totally different direction from where their traditional partners are headed. The recommendations guide entertainment companies on (1) Innovation for Consumers (2) Innovation with Business Models and (3) Flexible Business Infrastructure. An extensive guide and the ten specific recommendations for navigating the media divide can be found at: http://www-935.ibm.com/services/us/index.wss/ibvstudy/gbs/a1026258?cntxt=a1000401

The study consisted of primary research and analysis as well as supplementary secondary research. IBM conducted one-hour interviews with more than 75 senior media executives, industry analysts, economists and technology visionaries and also worked with the Economist Intelligence Unit to survey another 125 executives from media, Internet portal and telecommunications companies.

About IBM

With 80 years of leadership in helping businesses innovate, IBM is the world's largest information technology and services company. IBM's Global Business Services division provides thought leadership, consulting, systems integration and outsourcing to the world's leading companies. IBM has a strong global focus on the media and entertainment industry across all of its services and products, serving all the major industry segments -- entertainment, publishing, information providers, media networks and advertising. IBM's Institute for Business Value supports Global Business Services by developing fact-based strategic insights for senior business executives around critical industry-specific and cross-industry issues, part of an ongoing commitment to provide analysis and viewpoints that help our clients realize business value. For more information on IBM, please visit: http://www.ibm.com

 

Oscar Night Stylebook Available Now on ShopStyle.com.

Fashion Search Website Enables Users to Recreate Sizzling
Styles from the Red Carpet
Roll out the red carpet:
ShopStyle.com today unveiled its Oscar Night(R) Stylebook,
outfit ideas inspired by Academy Awards(R) style. From
dresses to shoes to jewelry, the Oscar Night Stylebook
spotlights "hot picks" from the red carpet and gives fashion
lovers ideas for recreating celebrity glamour. Items
included are from 38-and-counting fashion retailers ranging
from Nordstrom to Bluefly to Yoox to Intermix to J. Crew.
The first and only search engine devoted to fashion,
ShopStyle.com allows consumers to shop fashion, build
outfits and looks and share ideas with friends and family.

"Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery and ShopStyle's
Oscar Stylebook allows the average consumer to flatter the
heck out of A-list celebs," said Kevin Sanders,
ShopStyle.com Celebrity Stylist. "At the Oscars celebrities
don dresses and jewelry that often cost more than a small
country; ShopStyle helps everyday shoppers find looks for
their own 'red carpet' from all over the web. It's a fashion
shopper's best friend and first stop on the Internet."

One simple search on ShopStyle.com yields the designers and
brands the fashion-forward consumer is hungry for, with
clothes, shoes, jewelry and accessories from hundreds of
trusted online retailers. Shopping fashion on ShopStyle is
simple:

1. Enter the item in question, like "Badgley Mischka dress"
   or "gold shoes"
2. Browse through results and hover over favorites for size
   and color information, without having to leave the site
3. Add favorites to My Stylebook, group into outfits to see
   what items look like together, and share with family and
   friends for style opinions
4. Click through to buy

"ShopStyle is the only fashion search site that not only
compiles items from all the fashionable online retailers,
but also lets you see what those items look like as part of
an outfit," said Andy Moss, ShopStyle.com CEO. "Fashion is
about more than one item: The whole look is what counts.
ShopStyle gives consumers the whole picture before buying."

By creating a Stylebook, ShopStyle users can save any
combination of items from their searches and organize them
into outfits, ensembles or collections. These looks remain
in the user's Stylebook until deleted, and like any other
item may be purchased by simply clicking through to the
retailer.

Beyond the Oscar Night Stylebook, ShopStyle features the
following Stylebook categories to help shoppers find new
looks:

-- Body Type Stylebooks: Outfit inspirations by body shape
-- Celebrity Stylebooks: Everyday A-list looks with style
   recommendations  for every price point
-- Featured Stylists: Ideas from Danica Lo, fashion writer
   and author of the book "How Not to Look Fat," and Kevin
   Sanders, celebrity stylist who has worked with names like
   Jamie Foxx for his 2005 Oscar-winning look
-- Cool Looks: Site users' own creations rival the heavy
   hitters and feature looks for any occasion whether it's a
   night on the town, Sunday brunch or casual Friday at the
   office

About ShopStyle

ShopStyle is a search engine and social network that is 100%
focused on shopping for fashion. ShopStyle.com aggregates
items from the online racks of legendary fashion retailers
and trend-setting virtual boutiques. Its breakthrough Web
2.0 user interface makes browsing clothing, shoes and
accessories a highly visual experience. The ability to
create and share personal Stylebooks and shopping profiles
enables a highly customized shopping experience, and allows
users to easily exchange ideas and follow the fashion
trends.

For more information, visit http://www.shopstyle.com

ACADEMY AWARD(S)(R), OSCAR(S)(R), and OSCAR NIGHT(R) are the
registered trademarks and service marks, and the OSCAR(R)
statuette the copyrighted property, of the Academy of Motion
Picture Arts and Sciences.

 

NATURAL RESOURCES DEFENSE COUNCIL ''GREENS'' THE OSCARS

The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) made history tonight by partnering with the producers of the 79th Annual Academy Awards to significantly reduce the impact the telecast and related events had on the environment, setting a powerful example for the production's estimated 40 million viewers.

The Academy Award's first-ever greening initiative - which included a range of energy-saving solutions - was led by NRDC, the nation's leading environmental research and advocacy organization, and Oscar producer Laura Ziskin.

Leonardo DiCaprio, an NRDC trustee and nominee for Best Actor, announced the landmark initiative with former Vice President Al Gore during the live Oscar telecast.

This innovative project targeted ecologically significant impacts, including global warming pollution and energy use, paper products, set design, transportation, and food service, at the pre-show, red carpet event, telecast, and Governor's Ball. A major goal of NRDC's collaboration on this project is to advance environmentally intelligent production and consumption by other mainstream businesses and organizations.

"By announcing this initiative from such a legendary and respected stage, the Academy is reaching tens-of-millions of people across the world with a message that cleaner, more sensible energy choices and a simple commitment to environmental stewardship are Oscar-worthy endeavors for everyone," said Frances Beinecke, NRDC President.

"The NRDC salutes Oscar producer Laura Ziskin who worked to reduce the environmental impact of this production by making the Academy Awards carbon neutral, cutting waste and choosing environmentally preferable materials."

The initiative included:

-- Energy audit of Kodak Theatre by Los Angeles Department of Water & Power; efficiency plan and recommendations.

-- Renewable energy credits purchased from Bonneville Environmental Foundation to offset carbon emissions from events.

-- Use of ecologically superior paper for materials such as nomination ballots, envelopes, press materials, programs, and invitations.

-- Hybrid vehicle transportation provided for presenters and staff.

-- Comprehensive recycling system instituted for event waste.

-- Crew meals and craft services included reusable service materials, post-consumer tissue products, and biodegradable dishware.

-- Governors' Ball menu featured organic and environmentally-friendly food, including seafood, dairy, produce, and even the large chocolate Oscar.

-- Left-over Governor's Ball food donated to Angel Harvest.

Collectively, these impacts enabled selected events of the Academy Awards to be "carbon neutral," a coveted environmental designation which means the event reduced or prevented the accumulation of global warming gases in the atmosphere to make up for the gases that it has emitted.

"The amount that we accomplished during this inaugural effort exceeded our expectations," said Allen Hershkowitz, a senior scientist at NRDC who managed the greening effort. "We hope viewers will come away with an understanding that environmental change can be achieved through a series of deliberate, but relatively simple first steps."

The Natural Resources Defense Council is a national, nonprofit organization of scientists, lawyers and environmental specialists dedicated to protecting public health and the environment. Founded in 1970, NRDC has 1.2 million members and online activists nationwide, served from offices in New York, Washington, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago and Beijing. For more information on how to green an event or organization, go to http://www.nrdc.org.

 

Academy Award(R)-Winner Forest Whitaker Stars in the Powerful and Shocking Drama The Last King of Scotland

A Visceral and Brilliant Thriller on DVD April 17, 2007 from Fox Home Entertainment, with Audio Commentaries, Deleted Scenes, Casting Sessions and More

Feb. 26, 2007 Charming. Magnetic. Murderous. Under the mad dictatorship of Idi Amin - phenomenally portrayed by Oscar(R)-winner Forest Whitaker(a) in The Last King of Scotland - Africa experienced one of its most horrific reigns of terror. Now Amin's gripping tale of ambition and corruption will captivate audiences when The Last King of Scotland debuts on DVD April 17 from Fox Home Entertainment. Based on Giles Foden's award-winning debut novel of the same name and featuring "one of the greatest performances of modern movie history," (Wall Street Journal), The Last King of Scotland stars Academy Award(R)-winner Forest Whitaker (Ghost Dog: The Way Of The Samurai, Panic Room), who has received multiple accolades - including Best Actor wins at the Golden Globe(R), Screen Actors Guild, National Board of Review(R) and International Press Academy(R) Awards - for his total embodiment of the charismatic, yet psychopathic Ugandan dictator.

Based on chilling, actual events, The Last King of Scotland follows Amin's rise to power and subsequent fall from grace chronicled from the perspective of his personal physician, a young Scotsman blinded by Amin's charisma and who ultimately must confront both the reality of Amin and face the consequences of his own actions. Boasting gritty and realistic direction from documentary filmmaker Kevin MacDonald (Touching The Void, Being Mick) and a versatile supporting cast that includes James McAvoy (The Chronicles Of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe), Gillian Anderson ("The X-Files") and Kerry Washington (Fantastic Four), The Last King of Scotland is "an intelligent thriller that keeps the audience on the edge of its seat" (Newsweek).

Loaded with powerful special features, The Last King of Scotland DVD includes audio commentary by MacDonald, seven deleted scenes with optional director commentary, a "Capturing Idi Amin" documentary, a Forest Whitaker featurette and much more. Available in both full screen and widescreen versions, The Last King Of Scotland will be available for the suggested retail price of $29.98 U.S./$43.48 Canada.

(a) 2007, The Last King Of Scotland, Winner, Best Actor in a Leading Role

The Last King Of Scotland Synopsis:

As Ugandan dictator Idi Amin, Forest Whitaker gives "one of the greatest performances of modern movie history" (Wall Street Journal), one that Premiere calls "the most high-voltage performance of his career." This is Amin's incredible story as seen through the eyes of Nicholas Garrigan (James McAvoy), a young Scotsman who became the volatile leader's personal physician through an unlikely twist of fate. Seduced by Amin's charisma and blinded by decadence, the doctor's dream life becomes a waking nightmare of betrayal and madness from which there is no escape. Inspired by real people and events, The Last King of Scotland is a gripping, suspenseful stunner filled with performances you will never forget.

The Last King Of Scotland DVD:

The Last King Of Scotland DVD is available in both full screen and widescreen versions, and features English Dolby Surround 5.1 as well as Spanish and French Dolby Surround and English, Spanish and French subtitles. Bonus materials include:

-- Audio Commentary By Director Kevin MacDonald

-- Seven Deleted Scenes With Optional Audio Commentary By Director Kevin MacDonald

-- "Capturing Idi Amin" Documentary

-- Forest Whitaker On Portraying Idi Amin Featurette

-- "Fox Movie Channel Presents: Casting Session - The Last King Of Scotland"

-- Theatrical Trailer

-- International Trailer

 

Swarvoski’s Runway Rocks: Interviews from the Swarvoski Sparkling Carpet

 

Styled by the Emmy winning Queen of Fashion Patricia Field, who had everyone following the fashions of Sex and the City, an electric group of global designers were commissioned to create their own ultimate catwalk jewelry. Prior to the show beginning, we had the privilege of speaking with some who helped to create the show.

Justin Giunta, a designer of couture jewelry, traditionally uses Swarvoski’s vintage turn of the century pieces in his creations. In creating The Queen of Hearts for Swarvoski’s Runway Rocks, he gave it his antique slant with an “intricate brocade trim to make it look very old”.

, a designer of couture jewelry, traditionally uses Swarvoski’s vintage turn of the century pieces in his creations. In creating The Queen of Hearts for Swarvoski’s Runway Rocks, he gave it his antique slant with an “intricate brocade trim to make it look very old”.

MBN: What inspires you?

JG: “The entirety of art history inspires me. I love reinventing baroque into the modern concept, with the emphasis on intricate handwork and detailing. I think Swarvoski’s materials are great for that.”

MBN: Had Giunta ever considered using man made diamonds instead of Swarvoski crystals?

JG: “The idea of value in a finished piece is not about the sum of the materials, it’s about the overall proposition of the piece. In all of my work for Subversive Jewelry, we emphasize that they’re one of a kind compositions that are created out of inoucous material throught in time and space and culture that culminate in together to make a one of a kind compositions that outshine any diamond or emerald economically placed around the neck. So no, I’m not interested in diamonds or emeralds at this moment. I’ll stick with the Swarvoski for now.”

Nadia Swarovski, in creating Swarvoski’s Runway Rocks trys to tap in to the local market for each show. Previous shows since launching in London in 2003, have also been in Paris , New York , Barcelona , and Tokyo . Does Nadia have a personal favorite for the Runway Rocks designers? Mum was the word. “They’re all wonderful.”

, in creating Swarvoski’s Runway Rocks trys to tap in to the local market for each show. Previous shows since launching in London in 2003, have also been in Paris , New York , Barcelona , and Tokyo . Does Nadia have a personal favorite for the Runway Rocks designers? Mum was the word. “They’re all wonderful.”

Each of the designers received the same briefing to create their interpretation of the ultimate catwalk jewelry piece, with Swarvoski crystals.

MBN: Were there other guidelines?

“(There are) 350,000 different variations of the uses of crystals between shapes, sizes and color. I think the exhibition demonstrates versatility and multifaceticity of crystal.”

Swarvoski, admits that technology helps to keep them at the forefront. Not to mention that “the designers keep us on our toes, we try very hard to develop new things every year, two times a year.”

MBN: How does Swarvoski fit with Hollywood and the silver screen?

NS: “I think we help a little bit with that sparkle. If it hadn’t been for the vision and the creativity of the costume designers,our product wouldn’t have meant anything either. It’s a mutually beneficial relationship, Swarovksi with its craftsmanship and the designers with their creativity.”

Just yesterday we launched a new store, an Armani Swarovksi store, a collaboration between my father and Mr. Armani, announced at the Armani show in Milan . The last time that kind of collaboration took place was with my grandfather and Christian Dior.

MBN: Do you have some announcements to make with designers?

NS: “We have to wait 6 months for that to come out. The next designers are ready, yes. Stay tuned, in 6 months, Swarvoski has new announcements.”

MBN: Tell me about Swarovski and the upcoming Oscars®.

NS: “You will see Swarovksi on stage at the Oscars, namely the big crystal curtain. It weighs one ton. It contains 65, 000 crystals, 35 feet long, 20 feet wide.” How long did it take to make? “5 weeks. We’re very proud of it. It’s so amazing.”

Cate Adair, costume designer for Desperate Housewives, was so honored to be asked to participate that she couldn’t say no. With a busy primetime show, she created her Swarvoski gallery piece during her Christmas hiatus.

, costume designer for Desperate Housewives, was so honored to be asked to participate that she couldn’t say no. With a busy primetime show, she created her Swarvoski gallery piece during her Christmas hiatus.

CA: “Perhaps because I am a costume designer, I wanted a dress that was somewhere between reality and fantasy… I wanted something that would push the envelope but be something you could come up to me and say, if I had a special occasion, Kate…”

MBN: (We started talking about the process of working on her Swarvoski Runway Rocks creation.) Did you feel like you were in toyland?

CA: They were like the best chocolate shop, and I love chocolates. They just dance, and they have a light and a life of their own. It was just spectacular.”

MBN: Are we going to start seeing more crystals on Desperate Housewives?

CA: When appropriate. There’s an upcoming episode with Gabrielle…”

MBN: How do you like working on Desperate Housewives?

CA: “It’s the most magical extraordinary journey.”

MBN: What else is happening?

CA: “I have a new line of handbags at Kitson.com”

Vincent De Paul, actor and long time Versace model with Patricia Fields, the Emmy award winning stylist from Sex and the City who styled Runway Rocks

VDP: “Patricia Fields is the most dynamic person since Miami Rhapsody and what she did with Sarah Jessica (Parker) and Antonio Banderas to this day. You’re just amazing for film, tv and the runway.”

PF: Well thank you. It’s step by step. Miami Rhapsody…”

VDP: Everything you did with the Devil Wears Prada was so visionary and so amazing. It’s because of you, we have fashion, really.”

PF: Thank you, I just wanted the Devil Wears Prada, the film, to be something that all the audience enjoyed… It’s for the entire world to enjoy… I didn’t want a fashion documentary, I just wanted to make it fashion entertainment.”

MBN: About the show, can you give us a preview of what we’re going to see? What was your inspiration?

PF: Theatrics and glamour, for a change. These are 20 different designers, each with a piece. So this presentation, is in some ways to bring together a presentation without unfocusing and losing focus on each separate piece, one having nothing to do with another except that it was made of Swarovski, so that was the challenge.

Nick Verreos, Project Runway

, Project Runway

MBN: Last time I’d seen you, you were at Gen Art with the model wearing a beautiful black and white dress.

NV: Somebody loved that dress so much that now I’m designing it for Miss California for the Miss USA pageant. So she’s going to be wearing that gown, for the Miss USA . Yes, next month at the Kodak Theatre, Donald Trump, Tara ..

MBN: Have you met her?

NV: “No, but I did meet Tomiko. I was right there with Tomiko, her first runner up. She was getting ready to go, but they didn’t know whether or not whether she was going to continue being Miss USA . I was right there with Tomiko, thinking she was going to go to.”

MBN: Was she on pins and needles?

NV: Literally she had her bags packed. That’s how close, No one knew what was going on.

Because I was good friends with her, I was like, what’s going on? What’s going on?

She was like, “I have my bags packed. I’m just waiting for the word.”

MBN: What have you been up to lately?

NV: I just launched a line for Windsor dresses. It’s like an Isaac Mizrahi for Target. Windsor has 50 stores throughout the country.

MBN: What’s the name?

NV: It’s going to be Nick Verreos for Windsor . It’s a prom dress line for the prom market. I designed 10 dresses, it’s going to launch next month. That’s the market, that’s who watches the show.

I’m launching my fall line and I’m getting ready to travel all around the country for Windsor , to do promotions. and I just signed a deal with FIDM to be their spokesperson for their next year, of the Fashion Institute.

MBN: Project Runway has been good to you.

NV: “Tim Dunn? just signed a deal with Liz Claiborne but I go back to school.”

MBN: So what are you looking forward to seeing?

NV: “Lots of crystal. Lots of beautiful dreses. Gorgeous gorgeous Austrian crystal. I’m such a fan of Swarvoski crystals. I’ve bedazzled too many t-shirts.”

MBN: Do they know?

NV: “I just bedazzled my Brittney Spears t-shirt, and was about to wear it, but thought it might be a little low brow. Just in lieu of her rehab moments. I’m a Brittney fan…I can help her.”

If you’d like to discover more about Swarvoski Runway Rocks, click on the link below

http://www.montebubbles.net/blog10/2007/02/runway_rocks.html

 

``Little Miss Sunshine'' Pulls Up to Take the Crown at 2007 Film Independent's Spirit Awards

 The hit independent film Little Miss Sunshine won the top prize for Best Feature at the 2007 Film Independent's Spirit Awards. The winner for Best First Feature went to Sweet Land, which marks the first time in the history of the Spirit Awards that a film without a distributor has won this prize. (Note: Through a unique partnership with the online movie rental service Netflix, Film Independent members are provided access to participating Spirit Award-nominated films.)

The 2007 Film Independent's Spirit Awards were held Saturday, February 24, in a tent on the beach in Santa Monica. The Spirit Awards is a celebration honoring films made by filmmakers who embody independence and who dare to challenge the status quo. This annual event, which began as a small grassroots program, has grown into one of the most anticipated events of the film year.

This year's major category winners were Fox Searchlight Pictures' Little Miss Sunshine, which won Best Feature, Best Directors (Jonathan Dayton & Valerie Faris), Best Supporting Male (Alan Arkin), and Best First Screenplay (Michael Arndt), and Thank You For Smoking for Best Screenplay (Jason Reitman); ThinkFilm's Half Nelson, which won Best Male Lead (Ryan Gosling), and Best Female Lead (Shareeka Epps); Sony Pictures Classics' Quinceanera which won the John Cassavetes Award, and Friends With Money which won Best Supporting Female (Frances McDormand).

Howard Gertler and Tim Perell, producers of Shortbus and Pizza, received the tenth annual Axium Producers Award, which honors emerging producers who, despite highly limited resources, demonstrate the creativity, tenacity, and vision required to produce quality, independent films. The winner of the Producers Award receives an unrestricted grant of $50,000 funded by Axium International.

Julia Loktev, director of Day Night Day Night, won the thirteenth annual IFC/Acura Someone To Watch Award, a $50,000 unrestricted grant created to honor a talented filmmaker of singular vision who has not yet received appropriate recognition. The award is funded by IFC and Acura.

Adele Horne, director of The Tailenders, won the eleventh annual Axium Truer Than Fiction Award, presented to an emerging director of non-fiction features who has not yet received significant attention. The award is accompanied by a $50,000 unrestricted grant funded by Axium International.

David Lynch and Laura Dern received a Special Distinction Award for their collaborative work. The late director Robert Altman received an Honorary Spirit Award for his lifelong commitment to independent filmmaking.

As previously announced, a new Spirit Award - The Robert Altman Award - was created in the director's name, to be given out for the first time at the 2008 Spirit Awards to one film's director and ensemble cast.

This year's ceremony is sponsored by Premier Sponsors IFC, Netflix, Axium International, ELLE; and by Principal Sponsors Acura, and Pop Secret. On 3 Productions produced the Official 2007 Spirit Awards General Attendee Gift Bag and Presenter Gift Lounge. Casa Del Mar, Sheraton Delfina, Shutters on the Beach, and Viceroy, are the Official Host Hotels; and WireImage is the Official Photographer of the Film Independent Spirit Awards. American Airlines is the Official Airline Partner of Film Independent.

The ceremony aired live on IFC (Independent Film Channel), beginning at 2:00 pm PST, and was preceded by an exclusive half-hour red carpet show on WE: Women's Entertainment at 1:30 pm PST. An edited re-broadcast will air later this evening on AMC at 10:00 pm EST/PST.

Actor/Comedian Sarah Silverman served as Master of Ceremonies. Maggie Gyllenhaal and Terrence Howard served as Honorary Co-Chairs. Music was by The Crystal Method. Diana Zahn-Storey produced the 2007 Film Independent's Spirit Awards for the thirteenth year.

The following is a complete list of the winners: -0-

Best Feature                      Fox Searchlight Pictures Little Miss Sunshine

              Producers: Marc Turtletaub,                                   

David T. Friendly, Peter Saraf,                                   

Albert Berger & Ron Yerxa  Best Director                     

Fox Searchlight Pictures Jonathon Dayton & Valerie Faris   

Little Miss Sunshine  Best Screenplay                   

Fox Searchlight Pictures Jason Reitman                     

Thank You For Smoking  Best First Feature                

No Distributor Sweet Land                        

Director: Ali Selim                                   

Producers: Alan Cumming,                                   

James Bigham, Ali Selim  Best First Screenplay             

Fox Searchlight Pictures Michael Arndt                     

Little Miss Sunshine  John Cassavetes Award             

Sony Pictures Classics (For the Best Feature             

Writer/Directors: Richard Glatzer made for under $500,000)          

& Wash Westmoreland Quinceanera                       

Producer: Anne Clements  Best Supporting Female            

Sony Pictures Classics Frances McDormand                 

Friends with Money  Best Supporting Male              

Fox Searchlight Pictures Alan Arkin                        

Little Miss Sunshine  Best Female Lead                  

ThinkFilm Shareeka Epps                     

Half Nelson  Best Male Lead                    

ThinkFilm Ryan Gosling                      

Half Nelson  Best Cinematography               

Picturehouse Guillermo Navarro                 

Pan's Labyrinth  Best Foreign Film                 

Sony Pictures Classics The Lives of Others               

Director: Florian Henckel von                                   

Donnersmarck  Best Documentary                  

Roadside Attractions The Road to Guantanamo            

Directors: Michael Winterbottom                                   

and Mat Whitecross 

-0-

2007 FILM INDEPENDENT'S SPIRIT AWARD WINNERS BY 

DISTRIBUTOR  FOX SEARCHLIGHT PICTURES                              

5 SONY PICTURES CLASSICS                                

3 THINKFILM                                             

2 PICTUREHOUSE                                          

1 ROADSIDE ATTRACTIONS                                  

1 NO DISTRIBUTOR                                        

1 

This year's nominees for Best Feature were American Gun, The Dead Girl, Half Nelson, Little Miss Sunshine, and Pan Labyrinth. Best First Feature nominees were Day Night Day Night, Man Push Cart, The Motel, Sweet Land, and Wristcutters: A Love Story.

ABOUT FILM INDEPENDENT'S SPIRIT AWARDS

Film Independent's Spirit Awards is a celebration honoring films made by filmmakers who embody independence and who dare to challenge the status quo. Televised in millions of homes and covered internationally by the press, the Spirit Awards has become the vanguard event in independent film, recognizing the achievements of independent filmmakers and promoting independent film to a wider audience.

Selected from more than 250 submissions, awards are given in the following categories: Best Feature, Best First Feature, Best First Screenplay, Best Director, Best Screenplay, John Cassavetes Award (given to the best feature made for a budget under $500,000), Best Male Lead, Best Female Lead, Best Supporting Male, Best Supporting Female, Best Cinematography, Best Foreign Film, and Best Documentary.

The Spirit Awards Nominating Committees apply the following guidelines in making its selections:

1. Uniqueness of vision

2. Original, provocative subject matter

3. Economy of means (with particular attention paid to total production cost and individual compensation)

4. Percentage of financing from independent sources

Eligible films must be at least 70 minutes long, and the cost of the completed film, including post-production, must be under $20 million. Films must have been shown in a commercial theater for at least one week between January 1 and December 31, 2006 or shown at one of the following festivals in 2006: Film Independent's Los Angeles Film Festival, New Directors/New Films, New York, Sundance, Telluride, or Toronto.

After the committees select the nominees, the members of Film Independent, as well as the members of IFP, cast the final votes. Voters attend nominee screenings and view nominated films through Netflix before selecting the winners.

Last year's Spirit Award winners included Brokeback Mountain, which won Best Feature and Best Director (Ang Lee), Capote for Best Screenplay and Best Male Lead (Philip Seymour Hoffman); Crash for Best First Feature and Best Supporting Male (Matt Dillon); Transamerica for Best Female Lead (Felicity Huffman) and Best First Screenplay; and Junebug for Best Supporting Female (Amy Adams).

ABOUT FILM INDEPENDENT

Film Independent is a non-profit membership organization that champions independent film and supports a community of artists who embody diversity, innovation, and uniqueness of vision. Film Independent helps filmmakers make their movies, builds the audience for their projects, and works to diversify the film industry. Anyone passionate about film can become a member, whether you are a filmmaker, film industry leader, or a film lover.

With more than 250 annual screenings and events, Film Independent provides access to a network of like-minded artists who are driving creativity in the film industry. Film Independent also offers free Filmmaker Labs for selected writers, directors, and producers; provides cut-rate services for filmmakers; and presents year-round networking opportunities. Film Independent's mentorship and job placement program, Project:Involve, pairs emerging culturally-diverse filmmakers with film industry professionals.

Film Independent produces the Los Angeles Film Festival, celebrating the best of American and international cinema, and the Spirit Awards, a celebration honoring films and filmmakers that embody independence and dare to challenge the status quo.

For more information or to become a member, visit FilmIndependent.org

 

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