The Reel Spin

First Look: THE WOLF OF WALL STREET

2013-06-18T20:52:00-07:00

All I really have to say is Martin Scorsese and Leonardo DiCaprio... add in Matthew McConaughey and Jonah Hill... and wow, just wow. Watch the trailer below for The Wolf of Wall Street below.

PAWN STARS: An Interview with Chumlee

2013-06-17T16:00:00-07:00

Photo: Courtesy of HISTORY

The appeal to History's Pawn Stars is evident. Incredible items and characters come into the Las Vegas store every day, and there are many opportunities to learn about the history of these items along the way. What is perhaps even more appealing than the historical aspect of the show is the cast... the men who run the store. Rick Harrison, his son Corey, his father Richard (aka "The Old Man"), and the charming Austin "Chumlee" Russell always keep things interesting. It's no wonder celebrities ranging from Steve Carell to The Oak Ridge Boys have stopped by the store.

Although all the Harrison men are fun to watch... after one viewing, you will quickly see why Chumlee is the show's breakout star. He's funny and incredibly endearing to watch. No matter what the Harrison men throw his way, Chumlee has the unique ability to take things as they come by keeping a positive, carefree outlook and does it all with a joke and a smile. I think we could all use a little Chumlee in our lives. Besides, how else are we to learn the value of sneakers?

Chumlee was kind enough to take a few moments out of his busy schedule to answer a few quick questions about working at the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop.

The Reel Spin: First of all, how did you get the unusual nickname, "Chumlee" -- I'm sure there has to be a story behind the name...

Chumlee Russell: I was leaving a friend's house, and as I walked down the stairs to leave, my friend's dad said, "You're not going until you have some dinner with us 'Chumlee' " -- and it just stuck with me.

TRS: How did you come to be such an integral part of the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop?

Russell: It must be my grand knowledge of most things they don't understand like shoes, video games, and other important stuff in life.

TRS: The show has a new theme song, "Winning Isn't Everything." How excited were you when you found Lynyrd Skynyrd was doing the song?

Russell: As a fan of Lynyrd Skynyrd, I thought it was really cool they were performing our new theme song.

TRS: One of my favorite episodes was the one in which you tried to make wine... was that as fun to do as it was to watch?

Russell: I had such a blast with that; the looks on everyone's faces was well worth it.

TRS: You seem to know a lot about pinball machines, video games, and sneakers... what are some of your other favorite items to purchase at the pawn shop?

Russell: Art, although not without Rick being there...

TRS: Are there any items that you personally enjoy collecting?

Russell: All sorts of sneakers, gold, art, and big screen TVs.

TRS: On a rare day off from the pawn shop, what do you enjoy doing with your free time?

Russell: Hanging out with friends and family, bbqs and swimming... anything relaxing.

To see Chumlee in action, tune into Pawn Stars Thursdays 9/8c on History, and you can also follow Chumlee on Twitter here.

Interview by Pamela Thomas

First Look: FILTH

2013-06-16T20:32:00-07:00

James McAvoy stars in the film adaptation of Irvine Welsh's novel, Filth. As one would expect, the trailer for the film is a bit scandalous and NSFW... check it out below.

HBO releases teaser for new series TRUE DETECTIVE

2013-06-14T15:38:54-07:00

Woody Harrelson and Matthew McConaughey together in one series? Yep.

According to Entertainment Weekly, the duo are teaming up to do an eight-episode anthology for HBO about two cops on the hunt for a serial killer. True Detective is set to debut in early 2014, but you can watch the teaser now below.

First Look: Short Term 12

2013-06-13T20:07:00-07:00

In a time when there are so many summer blockbusters being released, it's kind of nice to be reminded that there are nice, quiet films just around the corner. Short Term 12 stars Brie Larson and John Gallagher Jr. as foster care facility workers who must juggle their past, their future, and the connections they form with the kids at the facility. Short Term 12 is scheduled for release in theaters August 23rd.

Artist to Watch: An Interview with Hart of Dixie's Claudia Lee

2013-06-12T16:28:42-07:00

As a former casting director, I know how hard it is to marry the perfect actor to a role, but that is exactly what happened with Claudia Lee and the role of 'Magnolia' on Hart of Dixie. Lee brings an effortless wit and charm to the role of 'Magnolia' that is nothing short of magic.

What is perhaps even more impressive is that Lee's talents do not stop with her gifted acting abilities, she's also a very talented recording artist and has a keen eye for fashion. It is easy to see that Claudia Lee is definitely an "artist to watch." This is truly just the beginning... her star is only going to continue to shine brighter.

The Reel Spin: Your character, 'Magnolia,' on Hart of Dixie is so much fun to watch. She definitely gets the best dialogue. It's amazing how she can say and do so many outrageous things, but still manages to be likable, which is no small feat and a testament to your acting. What has been your favorite 'Magnolia' moment so far?

Claudia Lee: Well, thank you for that lovely compliment. I'm truly blessed to be part of such a wonderful show like Hart of Dixie and to work with such a talented cast. My favorite 'Magnolia' moment would have to be when 'Shelby' was bribing her with so many amazing things that she just has to refuse in order to please her sister 'Lemon.' Also, I loved how 'Magnolia' and 'Lemon' grew closer as sisters in "The Gambler."

TRS: You definitely provide much of the comic relief on the show. Is comedy something you enjoy?

Lee: I love comedy. I feel in order to live a healthy positive life you must involve a lot of comedy! Naturally, I'm a very funny, and yet sometimes goofy person, so the fact that I get to incorporate that into my craft is amazing.

TRS: What is it like to be part of such a strong ensemble cast?

Lee: Working with such talented people who are more experienced actors, is a dream come true. I learn so much from them, and they keep me on my toes. I love every one of our cast members, and it's pure joy just to see them throughout filming the show.

TRS: When did you first know you wanted to pursue acting as a career?

Lee: I knew that I wanted to be in the entertainment industry from a very young age. My mom claims that I was a drama queen from day one. I would constantly ask my parents to allow me to pursue my dreams, and at the age of 13, they finally gave in. When you know that you are destined for something, I truly believe nothing can keep you away from accomplishing your dreams.

TRS: You are also a very accomplished musician. Like acting, has country music always been a passion of yours?

Lee: I began singing from a young age, just like acting. I believe music is such a beautiful form of art that is expressed through mood and melody. I love it, because when people listen to a record, they don't see your reaction. You have to sell the emotion through the lyrics and how you choose to express each note. It's quite powerful.

TRS: Who inspires you musically?

Lee: I'm the type of artist that is inspired by every form of music, even if it is an artist that I don't personally enjoy. You learn from other artists what you do and don't like. I really love listening to Pink Floyd and Lana Del Rey. Lana's lyrics and melodies are pure poetry. Also, Miranda Lambert and Kacey Musgrave's music really inspire me because of their messages through their songs and lyrics.

TRS: Any chance we will see 'Magnolia' join 'George' (Scott Porter) or 'Wade' (Wilson Bethel) on any Hart of Dixie musical numbers next season?

Lee: I would really hope that in season 3 'Magnolia,' 'George,' and 'Wade' would collaborate musically. I think it would be such a wonderful storyline to have them create a song for a special occasion. You never know, perhaps another "BlueBellian" would either get married or break up and need an amazing song!

TRS: You are also going to be appearing in the upcoming Kick-Ass 2. What was that experience like? Would you like to do more film in the future?

Lee: Filming Kick-Ass 2 was such a pivotal moment in my career. I was able to learn more about my craft and shock a lot of people. I challenged myself by taking on the the role of 'Brooke.' I wanted to make her different from all of the "mean girls" that we've seen on the silver screen. There are a lot of layers to her, and it was fun creating them. I'm so thrilled for everyone to see Kick-Ass 2 very soon!

Yes! My goal in life is to create many more characters in film. I love the film world, because it is a story that has a beginning and end. Unlike the TV side, where you you get a new script each week, and as an actor, are sometimes surprised by where the storyline leads; film allows you to create the whole background story for your character. I love both worlds! I'm extremely blessed that I'm accepted in both the TV and film aspects of this industry. It is such a flattering compliment, and I enjoy how different they are.

TRS: If you could star opposite any actor, who would it be and why?

Lee: I admire Meryl Streep's work. She is such a brilliant actress that captivates the audience. I would love to work with her, because I believe it would be an amazing experience.

TRS: You recently did a beautiful photo shoot for Dalia MacPhee. Is fashion another passion of yours?

Lee: Fashion is constantly infused throughout my life. It is just as important as the choices you make as an actor. I love fashion, because you can express yourself through a piece of clothing. With my look right now, I'm incorporating a lot of uniqueness and simplicity. I'm so happy it's summer too, because now that means bright colors and not having to cover up your outfit with a jacket.

TRS: With Hart of Dixie on hiatus, any exciting plans for your time off?

Lee: I'm planning on enjoying the summer by spending time with friends and family. Traveling and just loving the free time that I have to create even more art are definitely penciled into my schedule too!

For more on Claudia Lee:

Website: www.claudialeelive.com

Facebook: facebook.com/ClaudiaLeeLive

Twitter: @ClaudiaLeeLive

Interview by Pamela Thomas

Video of the Day: Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros -- "Better Days"

2013-06-12T12:12:26-07:00

Ahhhh.... Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros' new video for "Better Days" is taking me back to the breakin' movies of my youth. I mean who doesn't love Breakin' 2: Electric Boogaloo? But, honestly, even if you're not a fan of break dancing movies, the song itself is fantastic and will no doubt conjure up images of "better days" -- whatever those may be for you.

First Listen: The Civil Wars -- "The One That Got Away"

2013-06-11T12:34:18-07:00

The Civil Wars' self-titled sophomore album is set to drop August 6th. Today the duo shared their first single off the album, the hauntingly beautiful, "The One That Got Away." Listen below.

Get ready for Season 2 of THE NEWSROOM

2013-06-10T16:29:48-07:00

The Newsroom is back July 14th on HBO, and from the looks of the new clip trailer for season two, it's going to be better than ever.

The Lonely Island perform with Alanis Morrissette on Jimmy Kimmel

2013-06-09T17:58:00-07:00

When Alanis Morissette joined The Lonely Island on the Jimmy Kimmel stage for a performance of "Semicolon," things got a little "Ironic."