Windy City Gal

Part 2: Transformers 3 Set Destroys Chicago - Pictures and Videos

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy) — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 03:24:00 +0000

Photo credit: Christine Bajuyo

In talking to a Production Assistant, the "Transformers 3" destruction of Chicago (i.e. action shots) will continue through the end of July. Less intense filming will go through late August.

For Bumble Bee fans, apparently he (yes, speaking about a car) was doing doughnuts on Wacker Drive for several hours today.

Below is a sampling of pictures and videos from this past week. Be sure to make it to the bottom to check out the videos. Turn on the volume with the videos so you can hear the gun fire.

Hopefully more to come next week.

Enjoy and click on images to enlarge!

Photo Credit: Christine Bajuyo

The following pictures take place on Michigan Avenue between Illinois St. and Wacker Dr.

I spy a Bumble Bee!!

Transformer fire truck on left

The following pictures take place on Wacker Dr. between Wabash and State St.

The following pictures are from a prop lot located on Illinois St. across from the AMC theater

And some LOUD videos for your enjoyment ;)

Credit: niXer1010

Credit: Dannyx1014

Credit: jpabst4321

Transformers 3: Chicago set pictures

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy) — Sun, 11 Jul 2010 21:08:00 +0000

As you may have seen me tweet earlier in the week, Chicago was given advance notice of street closures due to the filming of "Transformers 3" in the business district.

So, I grabbed my camera and headed out. The streets where filming takes place are blocked off at least one block away on all sides and filming goes on for about a mile straight. Catching the actors (Shia LaBeouf, Josh Duhamel) is tricky. There are no robots to be seen, but the cars that turn into Transformers are roaming the streets (check out the picture below)! I'm still looking for Optimus Prime and Bumble Bee... Oh, and with some sleuth city maneuvering, I found the hidden trailer lot.

Apparently LaSalle street is being "blown up" from Lake to Adams. That's the entire length of the center of our downtown district!

Below are pictures I took over the weekend. I might get out to catch some more filming, but for now, enjoy the destruction of downtown Chicago. (P.S. In the early morning hours on July 10th, three base jumpers flew off of the Sears/Willis Tower with helicopters filming overhead. I was sound asleep, but would have loved to see that!)

The following pictures show fake pieces of concrete ripped up from the street.

The following pictures are shots of where the "concrete" was stored the night before the shoot

Here are some prop shots

Look! It's an actual Transformer car. License plate: TFORMER1 (or something very similar)

Not sure if the vests are real or not. They are using actual bombs during filming.

Here are some pictures of all the massive trucks that are prohibiting us from parking downtown!

The coveted trailers.

Below are extra crowd and set pics. Enjoy!

"Looking for Eric": A Cannes Film Makes it to The Windy City

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy) — Tue, 18 May 2010 22:20:00 +0000

Joss Barratt/IFC Films

At the age of 76, and after 46 years in the business, filmmaker Ken Loach remains staunchly committed to his blue-collar roots.
The film critic David Thomson once said he found it easier to respect Loach than to enjoy him, but a happy partnership with the writer Paul Laverty (or perhaps just the advancing years) has softened the director's gaze and sharpened his funny bone. Looking For Eric may be Loach's most accessible film yet, a gruff, touching, frequently hilarious ode to the pressures of family and the salvation of community.

"It's a film against individualism," Loach explains in the film's press notes. "We're stronger as a gang than we are on our own." That sentiment appears so rarely at the multiplex — or anywhere else — these days that it's virtually subversive.
Shot on location in Manchester, the film follows Eric Bishop (Steve Evets, onetime bassist for The Fall), a 40-something mail carrier who is slowly losing his mind. Depressed, prone to panic attacks, he struggles to cope with the two unruly stepsons whose mother bailed seven years earlier.
"When was the last time you were happy?" asks his NHS-approved shrink, and the answer is clear: 30 years ago, when he and his first wife, Lily (Stephanie Bishop), met as teenagers at a dance contest. A too-soon baby and too-late maturity birthed the first of the panic attacks, and Eric ran; now he and Lily have been thrown together again to help care for their tiny granddaughter, and Eric is a mess.

Read the rest of the review at NPR.org
"Looking for Eric" opens Friday, May 21st in Chicago

Robert Pattinson: From Blonde Baby to Handsome Heartthrob

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy) — Sun, 02 May 2010 03:37:00 +0000

From HollywoodNews.com: Robert Pattinson sort of came out of nowhere. Sure, he had a couple films and a short, relatively unnoticed role in Harry Potter (so unnoticed in fact that people objected when he was announced as the actor playing Edward Cullen).
But then “Twilight” hit theaters. Suddenly Rob was and is the world’s heartthrob. Let’s take a look at a few pictures of Rob to find out where this heartthrob came from.

Here is a cute blond (blond ??) boy. Definite potential as an adult.

-----------------------------------

Ah, the bowl cut. And a serious look. Not much to see here. But check out the nose compared to the first picture. It’s more defined. It’s turning into Rob’s nose. -------------------------------------

Everyone has their awkward stage. Only RPattz could manage to model during that stage. I don’t find this picture flattering at all (and there are plenty more of his model pics out there), but someone clearly thought he had a look worth paying for. Photo credit: @Legacy62 --------------------------------- Rob’s still young here, but the jawporn is starting to form and we can already see the captivating smile. Here, at a tender age, he’s about to explode. Photo Credit: @Legacy62-------------------------------

But wait. He reverts back a bit. Rob is still in his awkward stage here, cheeks (and thus jaw) a little fuller, but he’s also in character in this film. The porn hair hasn’t yet materialized. Photo Credit: How To Be Films To see Rob emerge into the RPattz we know today, visit Hollywood.com

Dare to wear it! "Rob is Sofa King Hot!" T-Shirt

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy) — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 04:48:00 +0000

Buy this GENIUS shirt made my @RobsButtonsBabe

And look! Free ground shipping for Mother's Day ;)

CLICK HERE TO BUY

Thanks @Twifans

My Experience: PopSugar's "I'm a HUGE Rob Pattinson Fan!"

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy) — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 04:19:00 +0000

Where to begin?!? It started with an e-mail and ended with me on the “Remember Me” red carpet, meeting and interviewing Robert Pattinson, someone I never thought I’d have the chance to cross paths with in my lifetime. There was the added bonus of seeing Kristen Stewart – another person I thought I would never see – but let’s get back to Rob.

It all happened very quickly. Within a week and a half, I was whisked away with my friend Hollie to New York City to prepare to meet with Rob. I never spent any significant amount of time in front of a camera, so I didn’t really know what to expect. Turns out I should have expected A LOT and A LOT OF FUN!

The camera crew and Producer met us at the airport, which we weren’t entirely prepared for. After several hours on a plane (with a layover), you aren’t necessarily “camera ready” as you step oustide. Turns out we didn’t look too shabby (if you ask me). They drove us to our hotel in a giant black-tinted window GMC-type SUV – the kind celebrities use. When we pulled up to the hotel and the camera crew was filming us, people stopped to watch as if we were famous. Hilarious.

From that moment forward, we were on film every day, all day, until about 8pm at night. Doesn’t sound too tough, but by the second night I was ready to pass out at 9PM. Don’t get me wrong – there was nothing wrong with being on film for that long. Turns out I think I have a knack for it and I really enjoy it. I became so comfortable with the cameras, the Producer told me I had to start smiling more. My bad! I forgot I was being filmed after the first full day.

Day two was the only day I got nervous :)

On the second day, Hollie and I spent a fair part of the day putting together a bulletin board featuring pictures of Rob and the rest of the cast. But mostly Rob. We had note cards and were brainstorming questions I might want to ask on the red carpet. It was kind of hilarious. We were cutting out pictures from magazines that we haven’t looked at since we were 14, and likely didn’t exist when we were 14. Then of course we used pictures from the Details shoot and had to cover certain “parts” of pictures. I also put together this really cool map of NYC that highlighted all the places from the film I was going to visit later that day.

In the afternoon, I met PopSugar’s editor, who went over some of the questions I was thinking of asking Rob on the Red Carpet. It wasn’t until that moment that my stomach started to gurgle… And it wasn’t because I was meeting Rob, but it was because I realized I had to come up with intelligent sounding questions. I ended up getting really serious when she was talking to me, and the camera crew again reminded me to smile. Smile, sure. But priority A was to make sure I didn’t make an ass of myself on the red carpet.

After I met with the editor, Hollie and I went with the crew to locations in New York City where various parts of “Remember Me” were filmed. We stopped at the “Alice and Wonderland” statue in Central Park, the diner where Rob/Tyler frequents to write down his thoughts, and the restaurant where Ally first tells Tyler she eats her dessert first. I found myself really getting into Rob’s mind in the first two locations – wondering what he was thinking as he was saying his lines and how he put himself in the right frame of mind.

At the third location, an Indian restaurant, all I could think was “I’d love to see Emilie try to ask for her dessert first in real life.” When the cameras came on, I did it, and I did it damn well. But when the cameras weren’t rolling, everyone at my table (camera crew, Producer, Marketing, Hollie) was cracking up. You can even hear it in the video. It’s really is odd to break the social norm. I equate it to walking into an elevator with one other person there and standing directly next to them, almost touching them, vs. going to the opposite side. It’s just not something people do. But that’s Ally’s character I guess.

That night, I had trouble sleeping, since Monday was the big day. I wasn’t nervous, but I wasn’t sleeping because I was laughing. Out loud. How did I end up here? How on earth am I getting one-on-one time with ROB PATTINSON?!? How the hell did all if this happen in the last 10 days? Laughing for at least an hour…

The next day was the biggest whirlwind yet. Hollie and I had to be ready at 7:30 AM. We had a few thoughts running through our mind as to what could possibly be happening that early. Some of our ideas were right, some were completely off base and will remain forever stored in my head.

First, we stopped off at H&M’s private showroom in SoHo where I got to pick out a dress from their new spring line which hasn’t launched yet. That’s the dress you see me wearing in the video. It was a very “Sex and the City”-Sarah Jessica Parker moment – trying on all these great dresses and twirling around in the mirror. Along with my dress came all these fun accessories and truly kick-ass shoes. I love kick-ass shoes. Their like my sexy lingerie.

Second, we stopped at the Sally Herschberger salon. For those of you unfamiliar with the caliber of this salon, check out here site: http://www.sallyhershberger.com/. While I didn’t have Sally herself, I had Erin and Rodriguo. Both fantastic artists. They listened to what I wanted and it came out exactly as I imagined. A few more layers to make my hair a little bit more rocker-chick, and some caramel highlights to spice it up. BAM! They got it! I’m going to my stylist at home this week so she can see it for herself and mimic it at my next appointment.

Finally, we stopped off at the Benefit counter in Bloomingdale’s. I already used some Benefit products, so I was pretty excited. Again, they all did an awesome job and I’m now considering them for my wedding makeup ;) The makeup artist started with gray and purple, which are my “weekend” colors at home. It was perfect. I even got some goodies to take home!

We got back to the hotel with minutes to spare. I think we put powder on, switch our shoes, and headed out the door.

When we pulled up to the red carpet, we were again in the black-tinted window SUV. Immediately fans waiting in line started taking pictures. Hollie and I said to each other, “Um, we’re kinda here for the same reason you guys are!” At this point, I went with the editor and the camera crew (along with the Producer) into the red carpet tent. I initially was nervous about being cold in the strapless dress, but they had massive heat blowers in the tent. The more people who piled in, the hotter it got. Eventually we all started begging security to turn the heat off. There were so many of us crammed in there with about three feet of space per crew, it was plenty hot.

It was absolute madness in the tent. I kept hearing crews saying they had never seen such a crowded carpet. People were falling over tripods, hopping over gates, and doing pretty much whatever they needed to do in order to get around. We got ourselves situated and managed to find our comfort zone. I started practicing my questions with the editor until I had them down pretty good. She and the crew even threw me some curve balls to try to throw me off, just in case answers didn’t come as I expected them. Then…..

FLASHBULBS!!!

Here we go! I knew that Rob wouldn’t be the first one on the carpet, but either way, I wasn’t nervous at all and was totally on my A-game. It was do or die. I wasn’t going to let this one chance be anything other than perfect. First, Peyton, one of the schoolgirls came down the carpet and I interviewed her. It was a pretty good warm up. Then Ruby Jerins came down the carpet. This girl is absolutely ADORABLE!! Ruby, if you’re out there, I want you as my little sister! She was so unaffected and was genuinely happy to be there. She couldn’t have been cuter.

Next was Allen Coulter, the Director. I was prepared to let the editor interview him, but she said “Go ahead and take him.” So, now I was hitting the big time! Here we go….

He walked over and I had down my “Hi Allen. Tracy with PopSugar. Nice to meet you. How are you today?”. I was prepared for “Fine, thank you” or something along those lines. Instead I get “Fine…oh, wow. What a great dress. That is just really beautiful.” Thank god the crew had practiced throwing me off. I replied without skipping a beat – “Thank you very much. In “Remember Me”, all of the characters are dealing with such heavy emotion. What did you do to ensure the cast stayed at that heightened level of emotion throughout filming?” His answer, which I don’t remember verbatim, credited the cast and their fantastic ability – basically saying they motivated themselves.

Then Kate Burton came on the carpet but didn’t stop for questions. Too bad – I would have liked to interview her.

…Then I heard massive shouting, fangirl screaming, and chaos ensued. Emilie and Rob came to the carpet at the same time. I stretched over the velvet rope to watch him and pretty much didn’t stop until he was in front of me. And Emilie was GORGEOUS. That girl is fit. I need her secret. She gave some great, strong poses for the cameras and had really good responses to questions. I was on pins and needles because we needed to time it right so that Rob didn’t bypass us if Emilie was still talking. It worked out perfectly. Too perfectly. As Rob was talking to the crew just before me, all of a sudden there was more fangirl screaming. We look down the carpet and see Kristen Stewart posing for some pictures. Then she walked briskly down the carpet, but didn’t stop for questions (clearly – it’s not her film). She smiled and definitely looked like her usual kick-ass self. That was awesome. A glance at KStew right before Rob. It was the perfect combination.

Then Rob walks up to me. Just right up to me. The next part is sort of hazy and I had to look at the videos to remember all of it.

I blocked off all 5 senses as so not to distract myself. After all, I wanted to come off professional. And hot. And leave an impression. I literally didn’t remember the first half of the interview. I knew what question I asked, but didn’t remember his answers or what he looked like or sounded like or smelled like or how many times he touched his hair because I needed to nail this interview. I had to see it on film to remember it. It was crazy. I watched the film and SQUEEED because he smiled at me as he came up to me. You saw the actual interview, which is below, and I think I did a pretty good job for a first timer. I also think it was smart that I put up a sensory wall so I could get a great interview. I am still laughing at how I barely remembered it and couldn’t wait for the video to come out! So, you guys know as much as I do about what he looked like, etc. No, I didn’t ask him for a hug, and no, I didn’t get to smell him, which were both common questions. I do remember thinking he was definitely just as hot in person as on tv/film.

The final cast member to come by was Pierce Brosnan. He’s very refined, but I did hear him tell someone to stop asking him about Rob ;) The premiere was running late so we were grouped with two other camera crews. I thought, “Great. How are we going to ask a question?” Then it was go time. Everyone was asking him questions and I had the PopSugar editor next to me who loves Pierce. I stood on my tip toes and screamed almost as loud as a could “PIERCE!!!” He looked right at me, I gave the editor a quick tap and said “Go!”. She asked the question and then all the other crews had their mics near him as he answered our question! Being bold on the red carpet pays off.

When it was done, I was sort of on a natural high. But it didn’t seem real….

We headed off to the after part at The Plaza Hotel, where Hollie and I were within 20 feet of Rob for most of the night, not to mention ended up at Lena Olin’s table accidentally and was five feet from Pierce Brosnan. However, security was very tight and you couldn’t get near Rob or most of the actors. Rob, Kristen and Emilie were behind a VIP rope. I never even saw Emilie or KStew. But I did manage to make an ass of myself by shouting at Victoria “Hi Lizzy!!!”, to which she pointed to Rob’s other sister and said “That’s Lizzy.” I apologized profusely and she said they get it all the time. No harm done and Rob wasn’t around at the time.

I did end up meeting some guy who said he was “old buddies” with Rob. I couldn’t tell if it was a line or not because you never know, so I played along. Good thing. He helped me get a picture with Chris Cooper and later I saw him behind the coveted purple rope. Hollie and I talked to him and his friends for about 20 minutes with Rob within eyesight. I think they were old family friends because he brought his mom as well. So, if you are out there Oliver, great meeting you!!

My last move of the night was to go up to Allen Coulter and “give him crap” for straying from film-related talk on the carpet. He laughed and said “Well, it is a great dress.” I had a solid five minute conversation with him.

We closed down the party with Allen and a few others and then I somehow managed to make it home (thank you, Hollie) and ordered a slice. It’s NYC. What else are you gonna do?

The next day at the airport, I looked at Hollie and said “Um, did that just really happen”. She said “You are just now realizing you talked to Rob and were on the red carpet?”
...And I said “Yeah, I guess I am.”

---

P.S. Click on the picture and look in between me and Hollie in the background very carefully.

A HUGE THANK YOU TO POPSUGAR AND SUMMIT ENTERTAINMENT FOR THIS WONDERFUL OPPORTUNITY.
AND TO HOLLIE FOR BEING MY PLUS ONE.

100 Monkeys in Chicago!!

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy) — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 19:35:00 +0000

100 Monkeys played at Beat Kitchen in Chicago on March 5th.

If you've never checked out 100 Monkeys, the band is worth the trip. They are not your typical group. Their music is a cross between funky blues and alternative, with a little bit of a edge to it. Definitely danceable, definitely enjoyable.

The venue was packed, but there was plenty of room to hang with friends and move around.

What's so unique about 100 Monkeys is their ability to play multiple instruments. Each musician switched places, almost in musical chairs form (no pun intented), and picked up a different instrument in between songs. Below are some pictures of the different band members and their various instruments.

Another highlight of the night - I got to meet and dance with Marty, the infamous Bananager! He's so much fun to be around, you can't help but smile and dance when you're near him. He didn't stop dancing the entire night. He was even bopping around during this picture:

And, of course for the Twi-hards (count me in!), there's Jackson Rathbone ("Jasper Hale") who plays guitar (bass and lead?), keyboard, trumpet, drums, and I am pretty sure I saw a harmonica on stage. So, for you, below is a collection of Jackson pics. Enjoy!

Click on any picture above to enlarge.

For more information about 100 Monkeys, visit their website HERE. Hope to see you at one of their shows!

If you use any pictures from this post, please credit and link to WindyCityGal.

Thank you!

Movie sequels I CAN'T and CAN wait to see...

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy) — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 06:43:00 +0000

According to DenofGeek.com, there are currently 86, yes 86, movie sequels in the works. I LOVE movies, but even I couldn't find the time to watch 86 sequels...and I likely wouldn't want to. I also couldn't find the time to comment on all 86. So, out of these 86, I've listed my top Do's and Dont's. Do you agree? Let me know your thoughts in the comments.
For a full list of the sequels either in production or in development, visit DenofGeek.com

DO's

"300 2"

Um, that might just be the worst movie title ever. Is that "3002"?, "600"? Before this sequel ends up in theaters, that title better end up on the cutting room floor. Aside from the horrid title, I would be thrilled to see a "300" sequel. It's back when Gerard Butler was still hot and slow-mo SFX were still cool. Apparently the movie shows a year in the life of Leonidis that isn't mentioned in the film. If Warner Bros. can recreate the same imagery and conjure up the same feelings from the audience, this picture will be another cult winner.
Image: Warner Bros.

"Avatar 2"

I am not a sell out. I am not a sell out. I am not a sell out.
I just don't want to be the only person in the world who doesn't see this movie. As long as it's in 3D, and I ignore the very-likely overdone plot, the SFX should be entertaining for all three hours.
Image: Twentieth Century-Fox Film Corporation

"Bourne 4"

Matt Damon hasn't been in a bad film yet ("Stuck on You" aside, which still had funny parts). I have no doubts he would pull this movie off as smoothly and as studly as the first three. Two thumbs up from me in advance.
Image: Universal Pictures

"Cloverfield 2"

The first "Cloverfield" opened to mixed, if less-than-positive reviews. I fault the trailers for this. The trailers were SO over-hyped that there was extreme anticipation and high expectation for the film. It didn't live up to the hype. I waited to see it until after the reviews came out and after it was on DVD. By then, my expectations were appropriately set and I though the movie was pretty darn good. Besides, who doesn't love seeing JJ Abrams blow up the Statue of Liberty's head. (Yes, I am kidding). I might even see #2 in the theater.
Image: Bad Robot

"The Dark Night 2"

There's already been two Batman movies with The Joker, so I am not sure how a third would play out, or if this sequel would even have The Joker. But, I love the "Batman" films (save for the Governator as Mr. Freeze), so I'd be up for another "Dark Night."
Image: Warner Bros

"District 9"

SPOILER ALERT**
District 9 was awesome. I mean, really, really awesome. Everything about it was well done and I truly hope it takes home an Oscar this year. The film left a W-I-D-E open ending for a "District 10" which I would be in line for on opening day. (And I only do that once in a great while. Usually with films involving Robert Pattinson.)
Image: TriStar pictures

"The Hangover 2"

I can't imagine what possible event aside from a bachelor party could make for such a laugh-out-loud-cover-your-eyes film. A pregnancy? A divorce? A "guys" night out? Lions and bears in addition to tigers?!? But if they build it, I will come.
Image: Warner Bros.

"The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn"

Hopefully this one needs no explanation from me. I get goose bumps just thinking about it. One movie or two, I will be there with bells (and a Team Edward shirt) on.
Image: Summit Entertainment

Other honorable mentions:

"I Am Legend 2"

"Ghostbusters 3"

"Iron Man 3"

"X-Men Origins: Wolverine 2"

DON'T's

"28 Months Later"

The sequel to "28 Days Later", "28 Months Later" is in development by Fox Searchlight. I can't watch horror movies. They scare the shit out of me. I can't sleep for days. The only ones I've been able to stomach in the past couple years are "I Am Legend" and "Zombieland." The first one because Will Smith rocks in anything he does and I try to remember it's him when I watch so I don't get freaked out. The second because, well, it's "Zombieland". It's like the Disneyland of zombies and you just have to laugh. And I did. But I will not be watching this sequel.

Image: DNA Films

"Alien 5"

"Alien" and "Aliens" kicked ass and took names. Even 31 years later, the line "Get away from her, you bitch!" still makes me wanna do a fist pump. But "Alien 3" was barely watchable and I didn't even bother with "Alien: Resurrection". Even as a prequel, this franchise should be left in outerspace.
Image: BrandyWine Productions

"Anchorman 2"

Does this really warrant an explanation? Fine. "Land of the Lost", "Step Brothers", "Semi-Pro", "Blades of Glory". That takes us back three years and should explain everything.

Image: Dreamworks SKG

"The Blair Witch Project 3"

I saw "The Blair Witch" in 1999. That movie, along with "The Others" (and a movie called "Children Shouldn't Play with Dead Things" I watched when I was in grade school) turned me off to horror movies forever. I don't even like having this poster image in my blog. See "28 Months Later" above for further detail. Image: Haxan Films

"Mamma Mia! 2"

Not to sound like Meredith Grey.....but.....seriously?? I LOVE Meryl Streep, I like Pierce Brosnan and I like Abba, but this movie was hideous. I watched a total of 15 minutes of it because I had to skip all the songs just to get to the end of the plot. And Amanda Seyfreid. Why is this chick popping up everywhere? "Letters to Juliet"? (Sorry, Summit), "Dear John"? C'mon. She's most famous in my mind for telling her friends she can sense the weather by feeling her boobs in "Mean Girls". The play was good and didn't have a sequel. The movie was not good and definitely doesn't need a sequel. Image: Universal

Other Dishonorable Mentions

"Big Mamma's House 3"

"Fast and Furious 5"

"Friday the 13th" part 6,000

"Get Smart 2"

"G.I. Joe 2"

"Saw VII"

"Scary Movie 5"

"Rambo" part 4,500

UNDECIDED

"Gremlins 3D"

"Men in Black 3"

"Monsters, Inc. 2"

"Scream 4"

"Who Framed Roger Rabbit 2"

"Valentine's Day 2" aka "NewYears Eve"

A Prize and My Experience: An advance screening of "The Yellow Handkerchief"

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy) — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 15:33:00 +0000

Samuel Goldwyn Films

On January 25th I was notified by Samuel Goldwyn films that I won a free screening by entering a contest at SheKnows.com. I was psyched, to say the least.

I got to choose the date - February 4th (among a selection), the theater (AMC River East 21) and the time. It was a perfect setup. If you've never been to a screening, I highly recommend you start entering contests to win one :) I had an entire theater for me and my friends, along with two people from Samuel Goldwyn films who could not have been nicer. Having a theater to yourself is an experience in itself. If I had the money or space to build a private theater, I would. But then I would still need access to the films...

The entire experience from start to finish was wonderful, and the Samuel Goldwyn employees I met were all accommodating and extremely nice.

Regarding the film itself - I love Kristen Stewart (hair touching, short breaths and all) and William Hurt, but in order to read my full review, you'll have to head over to SandwichJohnFilms.com to see it.

Enjoy and good luck with your next free screening contest!

More on The Bachelorette's Jillian Harris and Ed Swiderski

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy) — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 04:15:00 +0000

Click on photo to enlarge.

I reguarlarly write my own posts, but Jillian and Ed seem to be a popular topic, so I thought I'd share this article with everyone. Enjoy.

US Magazine, March 1, 2010

Oh What a Night! Spending Time with Professional Athletes for Charity

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy) — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 06:36:00 +0000

On February 11, 2010, I had the pleasure of attending the live, televised Comcast SportsNet Sports Awards to celebrate some of Chicago's greatest athletes and help support The March of Dimes. Thanks to my friend Jill Gayton of the Chicago Bulls for bringing me as her guest at the Hilton Chicago!

The evening started out with a private auction with everything from autographed mini-helmets to hockey sticks signed by the likes of The Blackhawks' Bobby Hull. Once in the grand ballroom, Ryan Dempster and his wife, Jenny, spoke about how The March of Dimes has helped their daughter, Riley, who was born last April and diagnosed with DiGeorge Syndrome-22Q11.2 (22Q). Dempster and his wife, both teary eyed, spoke of how the organization has helped them keep their 10 month old baby alive and happy. Additionally, Dempster started his own organization "Dempster's Dugout" in 2006 that has donated over 500 baseball game tickets to local social service agencies that assist low-income children.

After this initial speech, the live show started, during which professional athletes from Chicago teams were awarded with "Player of the Year" awards.

First up was A.J. Pierzynski of the Chicago White Sox. I am a Chicago Cub's fan through and through, but A.J. was an incredibly nice person. As you'll see further down, he interrupted Frank Thomas ("The Big Hurt"), who was talking to multiple people, in order to ask him to take a picture with me (which I ended up asking A.J. to be in as well) - all because I briefly chatted with A.J. and took a picture (ok, being friends with Chris Getz' cousin maybe helped a little too). Frank is big. I am not. I couldn't break through the conversation, so A.J. kindly asked Frank (well, more like interrupted him) and said "Frank, come on. Take a picture with her already." And the result is 4 pictures down. I will always remember A.J. going to bat for me. No pun intended.

Next up was Alex Brown from the Chicago Bears.

I definitely spent the most time with Alex Brown. He was at the after party (along with Steve McMichael and Kevin Butler - see below for pics) and he spent the majority of the time hanging out with me and my friends. Alex is outgoing, funny, and not too hard on the eyes either. He's also a closet techie. Shh...don't tell anyone. We did get into it a little bit when I mentioned that I root for Michael Oher when he plays. Not the Ravens - just Oher. He couldn't comprehend how I could be a Bears fan, yet root for Oher. I guess he hasn't see "The Blind Side" yet :)

After Alex was The Blackhawks' Jonathan Toews. I know the Blackhawks are the winningest team in Chicago right now, but I've never been much of a hockey fan. I know he's a great player and they are a strong team right now, so I was glad to see The Blackhawks getting some good representation at the event.

Now was time for Jill's team - The Chicago Bulls. John Salmons (which I learned is not pronounced like the fish) accepted his award with a gracious speech. Known for being quiet (according to Jill), I was surprised at how "from the heart" his speech felt. I met him one-on-one outside the ballroom and he wasn't at all quiet. He was very outgoing, stood around talking to us for several minutes, gave me his award to hold (c'mon, I've never really held any sort of statue-type-award), and told us about how he was having a fun time hanging out at the event with his wife. He also had a kick-ass goatee. Jill, I think you should reconsider John as an "outgoing" person!

Up next - John Bush from The Chicago Fire. Sorry, John, but I know even less about soccer than I do about hockey. But I am happy for you that you won the award.

Most people should recognize this next award winner - Ryan Dempster. About an hour after a heartwarming speech with his wife, he got back on stage to accept his award. I met him after the ceremony and he was friendly as well. I told him that I was born in Lincoln Park (true story) and have been a North-Sider since I left the womb. Cubs all the way for me :) He was more than happy to take a picture and sign an autograph for a life-time North-Sider.

The ceremony ended with the Lifetime Achievement Award, which was presented to Frank Thomas of The Chicago White Sox. His power-hitting has had him compared to Ted Williams and Babe Ruth at times. His career ending stats are impressive. He is ranked 18th on the all-time list in home runs, 22nd in RBI and 24th with a career slugging percentage of .555. He is also the all-time Chicago White Sox team leader in home runs and RBI. Thomas is also on the short list of players who have hit over 500 home runs while maintaining a .300 batting average and accruing at least 1600 bases on balls. His companions? Babe Ruth, Mel Ott, Mickey Mantle, Ted Willams and Barry Bonds. Wow. Nice company to keep. Below are Frank's career stats:

2,322 games played

.301 batting average

2,468 hits

521 home runs

1,704 RBI

1,667 walks

All of the pictures in which I appear were taken after the awards ended. Being a native downtown Chicagoan, I was around for the Superbowl shuffle and still know about Sweetness (who likes to dance), Mama's Boy Otis, The Punky QB (known as McMahon), and so on. Long story short, I know the 1985 Chicago Bears Superbowl champs. I dare say I know that team better than any other team since then, and I was only nine years old when they won. So, I was THRILLED when I saw Steve "Mongo" McMichael and Kevin Butler walking around after the ceremony. They were actually my initial "targets" and I took pictures and got autographs from them before any of the pictures above.

McMichael and Butler were, along with Alex Brown and A.J. Pierzynski, definitely the friendliest guys in the bunch. Maybe it was because they love that people still remember the '85 Bears. Maybe it was the whiskey in Mongo's hand. But both of them were completely outgoing. Butler gave me and Jill his Superbowl ring to try on. Now that is excitement. We talked to them several times throughout the night and Mongo was a social butterfly at the after party.

If you regularly read my blog, you'll remember I met Otis Wilson on New Year's Eve. At this rate, I'll have the entire team covered by June. Can't wait!

Steve "Mongo" McMichael

(Kevin Butler, and my friend Jill and I wearing his Superbowl ring)

And...some more fun pictures from the event!

Alex Brown and Kevin Butler

Alex Brown

And....no sports celebration is complete without Ronnie Woo Woo. He's sporting a Michael Jackson-type glove, which I can only assume is to honor the singing legend.

Can you guess the autographs?

From top to bottom, left-to-right:

Steve McMichael

Kevin Butler

Alex Brown

Ryan Dempster

So, the evening was a success. I had a great time, learned a little bit more about some of our cities athletes and met some great people. Note for future reference: If you are going to an event where you will be standing next to or photographed with professional athletes...wear heels. I could have had an extra couple inches on me ;)

Thanks, Jill.

Sports and Charity - A Great Matchup

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy) — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 03:38:00 +0000

The 2010 Comcast SportsNet Sports Awards take place on February 11, 2010 at the Hilton Chicago.

The event honors one member from the Chicago Bears, Blackhawks, Bulls, Cubs, Fire and White Sox as well as a Lifetime Achievement recipient and an Inspirational Athlete -- an individual who has overcome his or her birth defect by excelling athletically.

Since 1987, the event has raised more than $6 million to support the March of Dimes’ mission to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. Past honorees have included Ed Belfour, Bobby Hull, Michael Jordan, Walter Payton, Scottie Pippen, Mark Prior, Mike Singletary, Ernie Banks, Ryne Sandberg, and many more.

This year, awards are being presented to:

In addition, other athletes and corporate leaders will be in attendance. Why not take this opportunity to meet some of Chicago's best athletes and help a good cause at the same time. I'll be there. Will you?

Click HERE to view details or purchase tickets.

Photos courtesy of Comcast SportsNet

My Golden Globe "Shoulda Coulda Woulda" Picks

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy) — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 22:13:00 +0000

Unless you have been asleep for 24 hrs or aren't into film, you know the 67th Annual Golden Globe Awards took place last night (January 17, 2010) in Los Angeles, CA.

There were several surprises, the biggest of which was "The Hangover" as Best Picture - Comedy or Musical (even though it is definitely a crowd favorite).

I am by no means a professional film critic, but below I've listed out who I think Shoulda Coula Woulda won the awards.

*There are some caveats:

1) I haven't yet seen The Hurt Locker (it's in my Blockbuster queue and is next on the list) or Crazy Heart, so my picks below are going to purposely exclude those two films.

2) I am only picking from the nominees. I am not listing anyone that wasn't nominated (though I am taking a moment here to say that District 9 got the shaft on a Best Picture, Best Actor, and Best Director nomination). After I see them, I may revise this post.

3) I'm only commenting on major categories. I did think "Up" deserved to win best original score, but I don't think that's what everyone wants to read.

4) I am only commenting on films. I don't watch much TV, so I would pick House for everything!

Let me know your thoughts on my picks!

Best Motion Picture - Drama

Photos: Lee Daniels Entertainment and Paramount Pictures

This is the toughest category by far for me. Avatar won, and likely should have given all of the effort that went into the pic and what it looked like when it was finished. But that's more of a Director and Special Effects vote. I am going to have to say that either "Up in the Air" or "Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire" should have won for the "current" plot and the spectacular acting by all.

Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture - Drama

Alcon Entertainment

The Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA) got it right on this one. If you've seen interviews with the real Leigh Anne Tuohy you know that Sandra Bullock embodied the soul of this woman. They were mirror images of each other - in physical characteristics, speech and mannerisms. Bullock truly brought this real-life woman to the screen.

Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture - Drama

Paramount Pictures

I have to go with George Clooney here. He was fantastic in this film. He had to play a loner, a ladies man (ok, so that's not a long shot), a father-figure, a hard-nosed career man, a brother, a shattered soul, and a frequent-flyer - all at the same time and all convincingly. He did an extraordinary job. The actual winner was Jeff Bridges for Crazy Heart (which I have not seen).

Best Motion Picture - Comedy Or Musical

Universal Pictures

Don't get me wrong. I LOVED "The Hangover" (actual winner). I can't wait to watch the extended DVD with 100 extra "missing pictures." The movie had me in stitches. But it was just a really good comedy with a bunch of fun guys. It was a sleeper hit. "It's Complicated", however, had a myriad of talented actors all coming together to effectively portray a very messed up situation. It was hysterical to watch, and Meryl Streep, Alec Baldwin and John Krasinski made that movie. So much talent producing so much hilarity. It's a sure hit. (Note that I believe Steve Martin was mis-cast in this role and was the one downfall to the film - even though I love him as an actor).

Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture - Comedy Or Musical

Columbia Pictures

The HFPA got it right here. It was going to Meryl Streep one way or another. Usually two nominations in the same category is a death-sentence (split vote). However, when an actor can effectively portray an world-reknowned or real-life character, it's almost an award or at least nomincation shoe-in (see: Jamie Foxx, Sean Penn, Forest Whittaker, Susan Sarandon, Hillary Swank, Julia Roberts, Charlize Theron, Reese Witherspoon, Helen Mirren, Marion Cotillard, Sandra Bullock (Golden Globe). And those are just the winners. There are many more nominees)

Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture - Comedy Or Musical

Skipping this one. The only films I've seen in the category are "Sherlock Holmes" and "(500) Days of Summer." Neither one deserved the award in my opinion, despite Robert Downey Jr. taking it home.

Best Performance by an Actress In A Supporting Role in a Motion Picture

Lee Daniels Entertainment

Again, the HFPA got it right. I didn't realize Mary Jones was being played by Mo'Nique until halfway through the film. That's how convincing she was. She stepped way out of her (or anyone's comfort zone) to play an abusive, careless mother. A close runner-up is Vera Farmiga for "Up in the Air." Spoiler Alert: She was so convincing with the "character" she was playing with Clooney's Ryan Bingham that she even fooled the audience when her true character was revealed.

Best Performance by an Actor In A Supporting Role in a Motion Picture

Universal Pictures

Kudos again to the HFPA. Christoph Waltz was so eerily convincing as a happy-go-lucky Nazi leader (if that's even possible), that it brought tears to my eyes and shivers to my spine. You have to go somewhere very deep to effectively portray such a monstrous character. To that end, I'd also like to mention Stanley Tucci was just about as effective at playing his monstrous character, George Harvey, in "The Lovely Bones." Even watching him on-screen was uncomfortable. He also commented on the red carpet how uncomfortable it was to play the character (i.e. to go to that dark place). Look for these two to compete at the Oscars.

Best Animated Feature Film

Walt Disney Pictures

Totally agree with this win. Even my boyfriend loved "Up". It's cute, "scary", loving, suspenseful and action-packed all at the same time.

Best Director - Motion Picture

Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation

(Remember, I haven't see "The Hurt Locker") I hate to do this, but I have to give it to James Cameron for "Avatar" (he did win) because of all the moving parts that had to be brought together to effectively make the film. The film plot is nothing new - call it "Dances with Wolves", "Pocahontas" or whatever you want, it's been done." But there was a $hit-load of Director work involved in bringing this film together effectively. Why do I hate to do this? Because James Cameron clearly loves himself more than god and considers himself "King of the World." Someone needs to bring him back down to Earth. So can his films stop grossing billions? Thanks.

I would like to give a shout out to Quentin Tarantino here. He did a superb job with "Inglorious Basterds", also bringing together many parts to create a moving, disturbing picture.

Best Screenplay - Motion Picture

Paramount Pictures

Jason Reitman and Sheldon Turner rightfully deserved this award. The dialogue and actions in this film are so current, they could be taking place in your life today. Great job bringing real-life to the screen.

67th Annual Golden Globes Winners

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy) — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 04:56:00 +0000

altfg.com

Here are the winners of the 67th Annual Golden Globes:

Film

Best Picture - Drama:
“Avatar” Lightstorm Entertainment; Twentieth Century Fox

Best Picture - Comedy or Musical:
“The Hangover” - Warner Bros. Pictures; Warner Bros. Pictures

Best Actress - Drama:
Sandra Bullock for “The Blind Side”

Best Actor - Drama:
Jeff Bridges for “Crazy Heart”

Best Actress - Comedy or Musical:
Meryl Streep for “Julie & Julia”

Best Actor- Comedy or Musical:
Robert Downey Jr. for “Sherlock Holmes”

Best Supporting Actress:
Mo’Nique for “Precious”

Best Supporting Actor:
Christoph Waltz for “Inglourious Basterds”

Best Director:
James Cameron for “Avatar”

Best Screenplay:
Jason Reitman, Sheldon Turner for “Up In The Air”

Best Foreign Language Film:
“The White Ribbon” (Das Weisse Band - Eine Deutsche Kindergeschichte) (Germany)
X Filme Creative Pool/Les Films Du Losange/Lucky Red/Wega Film; Sony Pictures Classics

Best Animated Film:
“Up” directed by Peter Docter

Best Original Song:
“The Weary Kind (Theme From Crazy Heart)”; Music & Lyrics By: Ryan Bingham and T Bone Burnett

Best Original Score:
Michael Giacchino for “Up”

Television

Best Series - Drama:
“Mad Men” (AMC); Lionsgate

Best Series - Comedy or Musical:
“Glee” (FOX); Twentieth Century Fox Television

Best Miniseries or TV Movie:
“Grey Gardens” - Specialty Films and Locomotive in association with HBO Films (HBO)

Best Actress - Drama:
Julianna Margulies for “The Good Wife” (CBS)

Best Actor - Drama:
Michael C. Hall for “Dexter” (Showtime)

Best Actress - Comedy or Musical:
Toni Collette for “United States of Tara” (Showtime)

Best Actor- Comedy or Musical:
Alec Baldwin for “30 Rock” (NBC)

Best Actress - Miniseries/TV Movie:
Drew Barrymore for “Grey Gardens” (HBO)

Best Actor - Miniseries/TV Movie:
Kevin Bacon for “Taking Chance” (HBO)

Best Supporting Actress:
Chloë Sevigny for “Big Love” (HBO)

Best Supporting Actor:
John Lithgow for “Dexter” (Showtime)

My Favorite "Everything" of 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy) — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 01:09:00 +0000

CreativeClass.com

There are so many "Best of 2009" or "2009 Favorites" lists out there: movies, TV shows, actors, actresses, restaurants, couples, etc. I thought, why not put all of my 2009 favorites into ONE post. No more surfing from website to website to find the best of everything. It's all right here!

Below are my favorite "everythings" of 2009.Let me know if you agree in the comments, or write your own "Favorite Everything!" I want to hear your favs, too!

BEST MOVIE

TriStar Pictures
This might be the toughest category, so I thought I'd tackle it first. No, it's not "New Moon" as many of you might think. I have to say that "District 9" is likely my most favorite movie of the year. I LOVE action, fantasy, sci-fi and love stories. This movie manages to package it all into one. Plus, despite it being an "alien" movie, it's nice for it not to take place in New York or D.C. for a change.

This might have also been the most casual audition ever for an unknown actor. The director, Neill Blomkamp, presented the idea to Shartlo Copley by saying, “I’ve got this idea for a character, a bureaucratic South African guy who has to deal with these creatures, and I think you should just test him out.” At that time, he didn’t know it was the lead character. He thought he’d maybe be behind the scenes in some way, helping Neill shoot it in South Africa. And they shot this test piece and edited it together. It was a total improv piece. They just went into the township and messed around. Blomkkamp showed that to Peter [Jackson], and Peter supported him in casting, and that was it.

AVClub

My all-time favs: "The Matrix Trilogy" and "Terminator 1 and 2". Like I said, action, sci-fi, fantasy and love stories.

BEST ACTOR

PragmaticDemocrat

You really can't go wrong with George Clooney. He delivered a stellar performance in "Up in the Air", evoking both despise and empathy from the audience. There really isn't a character this guy can't play.

All time faves: George Clooney, Johnny Depp, Paul Rudd, Robert DeNiro, Jack Nicholson and I am sure I am forgetting others.

BEST ACTRESS

NYTimes.com

We're talkin' just 2009 here, because I doubt I would have known Vera Fermiga prior to this year. She wowed the $hit out of me in "Up in the Air." She is the perfect career woman, seductress and man eater. She pulled off a character for an entire movie only to surprise me at the end with a completely different character. Now that's acting.

All time favs: Dakota Fanning, Kristen Stewart, Ellen Page, Gwyneth Paltrow, Keira Knightly, Charlize Theron, Meryl Streep

BEST TV SHOW

I'm really only one of very few people left that I know who watch Grey's Anatomy. What can I say? I'm a sucker for narrated heartbreak and whining. It took about three seasons, but I finally stopped crying after every episode.
All-time favs: Grey's Anatomy, House, True Blood

BEST COUPLE

If anyone didn't know that Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart were going to be my answer, you should probably stop reading my blog :) The ULTIMATE unconfirmed confirmed couple, these two are beautiful together. Young love rarely lasts (she's 19, he's 23), but I've got my fingers crossed for these two.
All time favs: As I was listing these out, I realized a theme (after the first one) and decided maybe I shouldn't be so hopeful - Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart, Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams (over), Tim Robbins and Susan Sarandon (over), Reese Witherspoon and Jake Gyllenhaal (over)

BEST SCANDAL
So many to choose from this year!

We have this (but they're not worth my words):

We have this (but she's said enough words for everyone):

We have this (but no one can understand her when she uses words):

We have this one (but he's too hot and her words are too gorgeous):

We have this (but I prefer to remember his words from the 80's):

And we have these two (for which there are no words):

That really only leaves me with one option (for which there are many words):

Oh Tiger! You're only 4 holes short of an 18-hole course. Why stop now?!?

BEST INTERNATIONAL CITY

It's a tie. I truly can't decide between these two amazing cities. I had the fortune to visit both Rome and London in 2009, and I can't forsake one for the other. These two are also my all-time favs.

BEST RESTAURANT

Ristorante Sibilla. Without a doubt a favorite of 2009. Situation in the hills of Tivoli, Italy, on top of two ancient temples and caves, this restaurant offers the ambiance of a lifetime. I seriously don't know how you can top eating next to ancient Roman ruins.

All time favs: Mercadito, Caro Mio, Shine

BEST CAR

Ok, so this is totally not a chick car. But I've never been one to love the chick cars. However, I've seen a couple Lamborghinis lately and boy are they smooth. I really don't like 2-door cars (I've had one), but it's fun to imagine. Lamborghinis also also makes me think of Back to the Future, even though that famous car was a DeLorean.

All time favs: My dream car is a Dodge Viper in black. Kind of reminds me of the Bat Mobile. Other than that, I am a huge fan of Audis and Volvos every year.

New Year's Eve Around the World

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy) — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 20:56:00 +0000

On December 31st, at 11:59:30, wherever you were in the world, there was a countdown, a celebration and no doubt, some champagne. Below are pictures people sent from New Years Eve around the world

CHICAGO

Otis Wilson of the 1985 Chicago Bears Superbowl champs at Mercadito in Chicago.

From @rosenfie

VANCOUVER

From @maliciousmandy1

"Across Canada we do a giant Club Crawl. In Vancouver we had 500 people going to varous clubs in the city with party buses shuttling them around. All the venues have drink specials and party favours and an emcee giving away prizes while the dj spins the best music to get your groove on. At 11pm they all meet at one club and party hard. At midnight there is an explosion of confetti and streamers and champagne and kisses. Welcome 2010. A few more prizes are given away, including a trip to MExico for Spring Break. We also do this for Halloween, St Patrick's Day, Canada Day and for Custom events (Birthdays, Work Parties, Stags, etc.) It's a blast.."

For more information, visit www.studenttours.ca

QUEBEC

From @FPsEvilSide

VENEZUELA

From @Dayrelin

MIAMI

From @Cruzs93

FLORENCE

From David & Meghan

THE BAHAMAS

From @djnathan

*The following pictures are from News.NineMSN.com

SYDNEY

HONG KONG

SINGAPORE

THE PHILIPPINES

MOSCOW

VIENNA

VENICE

BERLIN

ZURICH

LONDON

Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy) — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 04:09:00 +0000

Over the weekend, I spent some time on Twitter (obviously not unusual for me). I was amazed to see the number of people posting comments about, and pictures/videos of snow hitting their area. These comments weren't just from Chicago or New York, but ALL OVER THE WORLD.

Therefore, I dedicate this post to everyone who braved mother nature this past holiday weekend as she gave some of us a wallop.

Enjoy the beautiful pictures and videos below submitted by Twitter folk.

CHICAGO

f

from @rosenfie

LAKE TAHOE

From @frenchieluvin

ST. LOUIS

from @thehotshoulder

SWEDEN

from @josefin5

from @anblank

NORTHWEST IOWAfrom @dazzled2828

NEW YORK

from @KStewDevotee

from @StewyLove

from @YankeeGirl51680

OKLAHOMA

from @AmberRMW

LANARKSHIRE (SCOTLAND)from @johnjohnston

MONMOUTHSHIRE (WALES)from BBC

THE NETHERLANDS

from @xElineeee

I'll continue to add pictures/vids if I receive any more.

Brittany Murphy: Rest in Peace

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy) — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 22:41:00 +0000

Photo: iamthelostgirl.files.wordpress.com

Brittany Murphy, an actor known for movies target to Gen X-ers and Y, passed away Sunday morning, December 20th, of cardiac arrest at the age of 32. She was pronounced dead at Cedar's Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. The cause of cardiac arrest is still to be determined.

Brittany's former boyfriend, Ashton Kutcher, tweeted Sunday afternoon, "2day the world lost a little piece of sunshine. My deepest condolences go out 2 Brittany’s family, her husband, & her amazing mother Sharon."

Brittany was born November 10, 1977 in Altanta, Georgia and has over 60 film and TV credits to her name. She also has 5 projects not yet released. Her breakout role occurred as Tai in Clueless and is also well known for her role as Daisy in Girl, Interruped.

Please find pictures from some of Brittany's movies, her film credits and several tribute video's below.

Rest in peace, Brittany.

Brittany as "Tai" in Clueless
Photo Credit: Hotflick.net

Brittany as "Daisy" in Girl, Interrupted
Photo Credit: www.movieactors.com

Brittany as "Alex" in 8 Mile
Photo Credit: eminem.net

Brittany as "Molly" in Uptown Girls
Photo Credit: Fanpop.com

Credits (from IMBD.com)

MegaFault (2009) (TV) .... Dr. Amy Lane
"King of the Hill" .... Luanne Platter / ... (231 episodes, 1997-2009)
- The Boy Can't Help It (2009) TV episode (voice) .... Luanne Platter
- To Sirloin with Love (2009) TV episode (voice) .... Luanne Platter
- Uh-Oh Canada (2009) TV episode (voice) .... Luanne Platter
- Manger Baby Einstein (2009) TV episode (voice) .... Luanne Platter
- Bad News Bill (2009) TV episode (voice) .... Luanne Platter
(226 more)
Across the Hall (2009) .... June
Tribute (2009) (TV) .... Cilla McGowan
... aka Nora Roberts' Tribute (USA: complete title)
Deadline (2009/I) .... Alice Evans
Futurama: The Beast with a Billion Backs (2008) (V) (voice) .... Colleen O'Hallahan
... aka The Beast with a Billion Backs (Australia)
The Ramen Girl (2008) .... Abby
... aka Râmen gâru (Japan)
Happy Feet (2006) (voice) .... Gloria
... aka Happy Feet: The IMAX Experience (USA: IMAX version)
Happy Feet (2006) (VG) (voice) .... Gloria
The Dead Girl (2006) .... Krista
Love and Other Disasters (2006) .... Emily Jackson-Jacks
... aka Love (and Other Disasters) (Australia: DVD box title)
... aka Love (et ses petits désastres) (France)
The Groomsmen (2006) .... Sue
Neverwas (2005) .... Maggie Blake
Sin City (2005) .... Shellie
... aka Frank Miller's Sin City (USA: complete title)
Getting Up: Contents Under Pressure (2005) (VG) (voice) .... Karen Light
... aka Marc Ecko's Getting Up: Contents Under Pressure (USA: complete title)
Little Black Book (2004) .... Stacy
Good Boy! (2003) (voice) .... Nelly
Uptown Girls (2003) .... Molly Gunn
Just Married (2003) .... Sarah
... aka Voll verheiratet (Germany)
8 Mile (2002) .... Alex
... aka 8 Mile (Germany)
... aka 8 Mile - Jeder Augenblick ist eine neue Chance (Germany: DVD box title)
Something in Between (2002) .... Sky
Spun (2002) .... Nikki
Riding in Cars with Boys (2001) .... Fay Forrester
Don't Say a Word (2001) .... Elisabeth Burrows
Summer Catch (2001) .... Dede Mulligan
Sidewalks of New York (2001) .... Ashley
The Audition (2000) .... Daniella
"Pepper Ann" .... Tank the 8th grader (3 episodes, 1999-2000)
... aka Disney's Pepper Ann
- The Finale (2000) TV episode (voice) .... Tank the 8th grader
- Unhappy Campers/The Search for Pepper Ann Pearson (2000) TV episode (voice) .... Tank the 8th grader
- Beyond Good and Evel/One of the Guys (1999) TV episode (voice) .... Tank the 8th grader
Cherry Falls (2000) .... Jody Marken
Angels! (2000) .... Nurse Bellows
Trixie (2000) .... Ruby Pearli
Common Ground (2000) (TV) .... Dorothy Nelson
Girl, Interrupted (1999) .... Daisy Randone
... aka Durchgeknallt (Germany)
... aka Durchgeknallt - Girl, interrupted (Germany: TV title)
Drop Dead Gorgeous (1999) .... Lisa Swenson
... aka Gnadenlos schön (Germany)
The Devil's Arithmetic (1999) (TV) .... Rivkah
David and Lisa (1998) (TV) .... Lisa
... aka Oprah Winfrey Presents: David and Lisa (USA: complete title)
Zack and Reba (1998) .... Reba Simpson
Phoenix (1998) .... Veronica
The Prophecy II (1998) (V) .... Izzy
... aka God's Army II (Europe: English title)
Falling Sky (1998) .... Emily Nicholson
Drive (1997) .... Deliverance Bodine
Bongwater (1997) .... Mary
... aka Bong Water (USA: DVD box title)
"Clueless" .... Jasmine (1 episode, 1996)
- Driving Me Crazy (1996) TV episode .... Jasmine
"Nash Bridges" .... Carrie (1 episode, 1996)
... aka Bridges
- Night Train (1996) TV episode .... Carrie
Double Jeopardy (1996) (TV) .... Julia
... aka Victim of the Night (USA: cable TV title)
Freeway (1996) .... Rhonda
"Murder One" .... Diane 'Dee-Dee' Carson (1 episode, 1995)
- Chapter Nine (1995) TV episode .... Diane 'Dee-Dee' Carson
"SeaQuest DSV" .... Christine VanCamp (1 episode, 1995)
... aka SeaQuest 2032 (USA: new title)
- Second Chance (1995) TV episode .... Christine VanCamp
"The Marshal" .... Lizzie Roth (1 episode, 1995)
- These Foolish Things (1995) TV episode .... Lizzie Roth
"Boy Meets World" .... Trini (2 episodes, 1995)
- The Last Temptation of Cory (1995) TV episode .... Trini
- My Best Friend's Girl (1995) TV episode .... Trini
Clueless (1995) .... Tai
"Sister, Sister" .... Sarah (6 episodes, 1994-1995)
- Smoking in the Girls' Room (1995) TV episode .... Sarah
- The Concert (1994) TV episode .... Sarah
- The Birthday (1994) TV episode .... Sarah
- Cheater, Cheater (1994) TV episode .... Sarah
- Slumber Party (1994) TV episode .... Sarah
(1 more)
"Party of Five" .... Abby (2 episodes, 1994)
- Good Sports (1994) TV episode .... Abby
- Homework (1994) TV episode .... Abby
"Frasier" .... Olsen (1 episode, 1994)
- Give Him the Chair! (1994) TV episode .... Olsen
"Blossom" .... Wendy (4 episodes, 1993)
- Blossom in Paris: Part 1 (1993) TV episode .... Wendy
- Blossom in Paris: Part 2 (1993) TV episode .... Wendy
- Blossom in Paris: Part 3 (1993) TV episode .... Wendy
- Blossom in Paris: Part 4 (1993) TV episode .... Wendy
"Almost Home" .... Molly Morgan (13 episodes, 1993)
... aka The Torkelsons: Almost Home
- Bowling for Daddies (1993) TV episode .... Molly Morgan
- Hot Ticket (1993) TV episode .... Molly Morgan
- You Ought to Be in Pictures (1993) TV episode .... Molly Morgan
- The Dance (1993) TV episode .... Molly Morgan
- To Date or Not to Date? (1993) TV episode .... Molly Morgan
(8 more)
Family Prayers (1993) .... Elise
... aka A Family Divided
"Parker Lewis Can't Lose" .... Angie (1 episode, 1992)
... aka Parker Lewis (USA: new title)
- The Kiss (1992) TV episode .... Angie
"Drexell's Class" .... Brenda Drexell (18 episodes, 1991-1992)
- The Resentments (1992) TV episode .... Brenda Drexell
- Cruisin' (1992) TV episode .... Brenda Drexell
- Til Death Do You Part (1992) TV episode .... Brenda Drexell
- Ashes to Ashes (1992) TV episode .... Brenda Drexell
- Beauty & the Beast (1992) TV episode .... Brenda Drexell
(13 more)
"Kids Incorporated" .... Celeste (1 episode, 1992)
... aka Kids Inc. (USA: short title)
- Lay Off (1992) TV episode .... Celeste
"Murphy Brown" .... Frank's Sister (1 episode, 1991)
- On Another Plane: Part 1 (1991) TV episode .... Frank's Sister

Will Chicago Lose the Next Batman?

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy) — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 00:34:00 +0000

According to a source, Chicago may lose part of the next Batman filming, which takes place over summer 2010.

How's this for irony? Chicago made the city so clean for the Olympic bid that it's no longer "dirty" enough to represent Gotham. With this knowledge, Detroit and Toronto are waging a war against Chicago, including incentives, to get the film in their city. London is also in the running for interior scenes. So far Chicago hasn't offered any incentives for the movie to stay.

The Director, Christopher Nolan, loves Chicago so he'll likely fight to keep the film here, or at the very least, the exteriors. (After all, where else can you find Marina City - aka the corn stalk buildings?)

However, the location depends on the budget for the movie. If Chicago offers incentives and the budget can cover "dirtying up" lower Wacker Drive, we may keep it. If not, look for GM headquarters to replace the corn stalks and Buckingham Palace interiors to replace Wayne Manor.

50th Anniversary of The Second City

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy) — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 04:42:00 +0000

The Second City celebrated it's 50th anniversary the weekend of December 11-13, 2009 in Chicago. Southwest airlines chartered about 100 alumi to Chicago on Friday to celebrate the big event.

The schedule included lineups of SCTV, The Colbert Report and other goodies.

The big event was at 7pm on Saturday and featured performances from, take a deep breath, and here we go....Scott Adsit, Jim Belushi, Danny Breen, Frank Caeti, Larry Joe Campbell, Steve Carell, Dan Castellaneta, Stephen Colbert, Kevin Dorff, Robin Duke, Brian Gallivan, Martin Garcia, Jeff Garlin, Ian Gomez, Peter Grosz, Mike Hagerty, Isabella Hoffman, Bruce Jarchow, Fred Kaz, Tim Kazurinsky, Keegan Michael Key, Richard Kind, Robert Klein, David Koechner, Mina Kolb, Bob Martin, Jack McBrayer, Susan Messing, Colin Mochrie, Jane Morris, Bob Odenkirk, David Pasquesi, Harold Ramis, David Rasche, Horatio Sanz, Jim Staahl, Betty Thomas, Nia Vardalos, George Wendt, Fred Willard and many, many more.

For those who aren't aware, The Second City produced all the talent listed above, plus a host of others, listed below. Some of the biggest names to come out of the comedy troupe are: Jim Belushi, John Belushi, Dan Akroyd, Gilda Radner, Bill Murray, John Candy, Steve Carell, Steven Colbert, Andy Dick, Tina Fey, Bonnie Hunt, Eugene Levy, Mike Meyers, Catherine O'Hara, Harold Ramis, Amy Sedaris, Martin Short, Jerry Stiller, Nia Vardalos and George Wendt. Though I am pretty positive I missed a few.

With so much talent residing in Los Angeles, we often forget the amount of talent that was born out of Chicago. Take time to review the full list at the bottom and appreciate the hilariousness that our city produces!

The Second City filmed the entire weekend, including the plane ride, and plans to put together a documentary on the weekend and history in the near future.

Below are pictures from The Second City on opening night of the anniversary weekend.

Alumni from 1959 - 2009

Twilight Fans Fight Back Against The Paparazzi

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy) — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 03:41:00 +0000

Banner courtesy of ThinkingofRob.com

Twilight fans are fighting back.

Their favorite shy superstar, Robert Pattinson, hounded relentlessly by paparazzi, many of Pattinson’s admirers have taken to the Internet in a big way. They’ve broadcast a united message to the photog community expressing disgust with what they see as grossly invasive practices.

“He Doesn’t Want This, Neither Do We,” is the banner taken up by major Pattinson fan sites, addressing the paparazzi who have turned the “Twilight” star’s life upside-down. [See below for examples of the banners being posted.] “Enough is enough,” declares ThinkingOfRob.com, “Because no person deserves this, celebrity or not. There are limits and you have gone too far.” [They initiated the major campaign which has spread like wildfire among blog sites. For a full list of participating blog sites, see below.]

The most striking element of the campaign is a collection of [approximately 1,000] photographs contributed from fans across the world who pose with their hands covering their faces in protest. “This is our way of saying leave him alone,” explain the site proprietors who have collaborated on the effort.

Thanks to GossipCop.com for the article

Windy City Gal Notes:

> The effort is so popular, some people have been waiting for two days to get on ThinkingofRob.com, including me, due to server delays. They are working as quickly as possible to allow everyone access.

> In addition to the banners you see below, ThinkingofRob.com also created a video of the over ~1,000 picture submissions, along with an enormous collage. Both of these items are located below, but visit ThinkingofRob.com for all 700+ pictures, as this collage is just the first of many.

> Additionally, I've included another statement from ROB & kriSTEN Lovers (http://www.robstenlovers.blogspot.com) about how they are joining in on the effort.

Video, collage and banners courtesy of ThinkingofRob.com

Banner courtesy of RobstenLovers.Blogspot.com

There is a lot of Twitter Buzz about many of the Top Twi-blogs going PAP free today...these latests pics of Rob covering his face has made us all cringe one too many times.

Here at ROB & KriSten Lovers, we have always tried to remain classy and only post respetable pics of our cast...however...today is the DAY...we are going PAP FREE. We are joining several other blogs in fighting the chasing down of our beloved cast in efforts to give them some well deserved space and privacy. We will continue to give you all the news, but will no longer post pics of the cast in their personal lives.

This pic above is one of over 500 fans that have sent their pics to ThinkingofRob to show support, You can still send yours!

We sure hope you all stick with us on this!!!

Collaborating Sites:

http://www.robert-pattinson.co.uk/

http://dreamysim1.wordpress.com/

http://robert-pattinson.ca

http://www.robmyworld.com

http://eyesofamber.blogspot.com/

http://twilightladies.com/

http://www.whynotrpattz.com/

http://www.robertpattinson-tr.com/blog/

http://www.lunanuevameyer.com/

http://www.emscharitykiss.com/

http://edward-cullen.net/

http://theirishtwilightsisters.blogspot.com

http://team-twilight.com/

http://crookedsmileweb.blogspot.com/

http://twitter.com/KStew411

http://twilighttilldawn.blogspot.com/

http://gossip-dance.blogspot.com/

http://robmusement.wordpress.com/

http://twitarded.blogspot.com/

http://twilightitalianmoms.wordpress.com/

http://www.sytycw.com/

http://hype-information.blogspot.com/

http://saga-twilight.com

http://robert-pattinson.forumcommunity.net

http://anxiousrpattz.blogspot.com

http://todotwilightsaga.blogspot.com/

http://kristensawkwardness.wordpress.com/

http://mrsgoosey.blogspot.com/

http://fragilelittlehuman.wordpress.com

http://robstenation.blogspot.com/

http://www.twilightninjas.blogspot.com

http://iheartrobward.blogspot.com,

cullenspark.blogspot.com

www.onepushyfox.blogspot.com.

http://robtrackmind.wordpress.com

http://indy-twilighter.blogspot.com/

www.EclipseBitches.com

www.mydiscomROBulation.blogspot.com

http://bitemypillows.blogspot.com/

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=2219055965

http://community.livejournal.com/werkdelusional/

http://robsessed-cori-blog.blogspot.com/

http://aufewig1977meetstwilight.blogspot.com/

www.aussietwilightmums.com

http://reddawn25.livejournal.com/

http://www.facebook.com/pages/For-the-right-to-walk-on-the-street/206178104680?ref=mf

http://faflive.blogspot.com/

http://thepattinsonproject.wordpress.com

http://applesnfeathers.blogspot.com

http://robandkrislatinoamerica.blogspot.com/

http://17foreverlisa.blogspot.com/

www.respectrob.blogspot.com

www.myspace.com/saverobfoundation

http://teamedwardpov.blogspot.com/

http://www.ebrella.blogspot.com/

http://pattykakes4suz.blogspot.com/

http://twilightforever2.blogspot.com/

http://twicholic.blogspot.com/

http://weheartrobsten.blogspot.com

http:// thetwilightcreeper.blogspot.com

www.latchkey-wife.blogspot.com

www.robertpattinsoncolombia.blogspot.com

Twilight Junkies Anonymous

Brit Pack Dreams

http://www.facebook.com/pages/For-the-right-to-walk-on-the-street/206178104680?ref=nf

http://RobstenLovers.blogspot.com

http://fallintothetwilight.wordpress.com/

http://sizzlingtwilight.blogspot.com/

The Chicago Bears Finally Have a Good Match-Up (it's not what you think)

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy) — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 03:06:00 +0000

Photo Credit: NationalSportsBeat.com

My parents went to the Chicago Bears game on Sunday, November 22, 2009. They got there early in hopes of getting close enough to get pictures of some of the players. They got more than they bargained for.

Carlos Zambrano from the Chicago Cubs was at the Bears game in a Brian Urlacher jersey (talk about confusing for a not-so-sporty person) and my parents went to get a picture with him. They had one couple ahead of them in line before they got to take pictures. Out of nowhere, it would seem, the guy in front of them got down on his knees, on the actual field grass, pulled out a ring and proposed to his girlfriend in front of thousands. That takes cahones. Remember the denial at the Chicago Bulls game a while back (though there's rumors that was a set-up for the crowd)?

The girl happily accepted and they were husband-and-wife-to-be the next instant. My mother, never the shy one, started snapping pictures as soon as she realized what was happening. Below are her pictures of the event.

My parents did end up getting their picture taken with Carlos Zambrano and those pics are included for your enjoyment.

Congratulations to Haven and Collin. Best Wishes from Windy City Gal.

Unless otherwise noted, photos are property of website owner.

Sundance Film Festival 2010 Picks Are In!

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy) — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 23:16:00 +0000

Photo Copyright: Argonaut Pictures

Image from "Welcome to the Rileys" starring James Gandolfini and Kristen Stewart

[Red listings are favorites going in due to the cast, or have already-famous cast-members in them. Note to Kristen Stewart fans: The Runaways is a non-competition entrant.]

Below information from Festival.Sundance.Org

Sundance Institute announced today the lineup of films selected to screen in the U.S. and World Cinema Dramatic and Documentary Competitions for the 2010 Sundance Film Festival.

December 02, 2009

PARK CITY, UT – Sundance Institute announced today the lineup of films selected to screen in the U.S. and World Cinema Dramatic and Documentary Competitions for the 2010 Sundance Film Festival. In addition to the four Competition Categories, the Festival presents films in five out-of-competition sections to be announced on December 3. The 2010 Sundance Film Festival runs January 21-31 in Park City, Salt Lake City, Ogden and Sundance, Utah. The complete list of films is available at www.sundance.org/festival.

U.S. DRAMATIC COMPETITION

This year’s 16 films were selected from 1,058 submissions. Each film is a world premiere.

Blue Valentine (Director: Derek Cianfrance; Screenwriters: Derek Cianfrance, Cami Delavigne and Joey Curtis) —A complex portrait of an American marriage, Blue Valentine charts the evolution of a relationship over time. Cast: Ryan Gosling, Michelle Williams, Mike Vogel, John Doman. World Premiere

Douchebag (Director: Drake Doremus; Screenwriters: Lindsay Stidham, Drake Doremus, Jonathan Schwartz and Andrew Dickler) —On the verge of getting married, Sam Nussbaum insists he escort his younger brother, Tom, on a wild goose chase of a journey to find Tom's fifth grade girlfriend. Cast: Andrew Dickler, Ben York Jones, Marguerite Moreau, Nicole Vicius, Amy Ferguson, Wendi McClendon-Covey. World Premiere

The Dry Land (Director and screenwriter: Ryan Piers Williams)—A U.S. soldier returning home from war struggles to reconcile his experiences abroad with the life and family he left in Texas. Cast: America Ferrera, Wilmer Valderrama, Ethan Suplee, June Diane Raphael, Melissa Leo. World Premiere

happythankyoumoreplease (Director and screenwriter: Josh Radnor)—Six New Yorkers negotiate love, friendship, and gratitude at a time when they're too old to be precocious and not ready to be adults. Cast: Malin Akerman, Josh Radnor, Kate Mara, Zoe Kazan, Tony Hale, Pablo Schreiber, Michael Algieri. World Premiere

Hesher(Director: Spencer Susser; Screenwriters: Spencer Susser and David Michod; Story by Brian Charles Frank)—A mysterious, anarchical trickster descends on the lives of a family struggling to deal with a painful loss. Cast: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Natalie Portman, Rainn Wilson, Devin Brochu, Piper Laurie, John Carroll Lynch. World Premiere

Holy Rollers (Director: Kevin Tyler Asch; Screenwriter: Antonio Macia)—A young Hasidic man, seduced by money, power and opportunity, becomes an international Ecstasy smuggler. Cast: Jesse Eisenberg, Justin Bartha, Danny A. Abeckaser, Ari Graynor, Jason Fuchs. World Premiere

Howl (Directors and screenwriters: Rob Epstein and Jeffrey Friedman)—A nonfiction drama about the young Allen Ginsberg finding his voice, the creation of his groundbreaking poem HOWL, and the landmark obscenity trial that followed. Cast: James Franco, David Strathairn, Jon Hamm, Mary-Louise Parker, Jeff Daniels. World Premiere

The Imperialists are still Alive! (Director and screenwriter: Zeina Durra)—Juggling the sudden abduction of her childhood sweetheart as well as a blooming love affair, a French Manhattanite makes her way as an artist in an indifferent, sometimes hostile world. Cast: Élodie Bouchez, José María de Tavira, Karim Saleh Karolina Muller, Marianna Kulukundis, Rita Ackerman. World Premiere

Lovers of Hate (Director and screenwriter: Bryan Poyser)—The shaky reunion of estranged brothers takes a turn for the worse when the woman they both love chooses one over the other. Cast: Chris Doubek, Heather Kafka, Alex Karpovsky, Zach Green. World Premiere

Night Catches Us (Director and screenwriter: Tanya Hamilton)—In 1978, complex political and emotional forces are set in motion when a young man returns to the race-torn Philadelphia neighborhood where he came of age during the Black Power movement. Cast: Anthony Mackie, Kerry Washington, Jamie Hector, Wendell Pierce, Jamara Griffin. World Premiere

Obselidia (Director and screenwriter: Diane Bell)—A lonely librarian believes love is obsolete until a road trip to Death Valley with a beguiling cinema projectionist teaches him otherwise. Cast: Gaynor Howe, Michael Piccirilli, Frank Hoyt Taylor. World Premiere

Skateland (Director: Anthony Burns; Screenwriters: Anthony Burns, Brandon Freeman, Heath Freeman)—In the early 1980s, in small-town Texas, dramatic events force a 19-year-old skating rink manager to look at his life in a very new way. Cast: Shiloh Fernandez, A.J. Buckley, Ashley Greene, Brett Cullen, Ellen Hollman, Heath Freeman. World Premiere

Sympathy for Delicious (Director: Mark Ruffalo; Screenwriter: Christopher Thornton)—A newly paralyzed DJ gets more than he bargained for when he seeks out the world of faith healing. Cast: Orlando Bloom, Mark Ruffalo, Juliette Lewis, Laura Linney, John Carroll Lynch. World Premiere

3 Backyards (Director and screenwriter: Eric Mendelsohn)—A quiet suburban town becomes an intense emotional terrain for three residents over the course of one curious autumn day. Cast: Embeth Davidtz, Edie Falco, Elias Koteas, Rachel Resheff, Kathryn Erbe, Danai Gurira. World Premiere

Welcome to the Rileys (Director: Jake Scott)—On a business trip to New Orleans, a damaged man seeks salvation by caring for a wayward young woman. Cast: James Gandolfini, Kristen Stewart, Melissa Leo. World Premiere

Winter’s Bone (Director: Debra Granik; Screenwriters: Debra Granik and Anne Rosellini)—An unflinching Ozark Mountain girl hacks through dangerous social terrain as she hunts down her drug-dealing father while trying to keep her family intact. Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, John Hawkes, Dale Dickey, Garret Dillahunt, Kevin Breznahan. World Premiere

U.S. DOCUMENTARY COMPETITION
This year’s 16 films were selected from 862 submissions. Each film is a world premiere.

Bhutto (Directors: Jessica Hernandez and Johnny O'Hara; Screenwriter: Johnny O'Hara)—A riveting journey through the life and work of recently assassinated Benazir Bhutto, former Pakistani prime minister and a polarizing figure in the Muslim world. World Premiere

CASINO JACK & The United States of Money (Director: Alex Gibney)—A probing investigation into the lies, greed and corruption surrounding D.C. super-lobbyist Jack Abramoff and his cronies. World Premiere

Family Affair (Director: Chico Colvard)—An uncompromising documentary that examines resilience, survival and the capacity to accommodate a parent's past crimes in order to satisfy the longing for family. World Premiere

Freedom Riders (Director: Stanley Nelson)—The story behind a courageous band of civil rights activists called the Freedom Riders who in 1961 creatively challenged segregation in the American South. World Premiere

Gas Land (Director: Josh Fox)—A cross-country odyssey uncovers toxic streams, dying livestock, flammable sinks and weakening health among rural citizens on the front lines of the natural gas drilling craze. World Premiere

I’m Pat _______ Tillman (Director: Amir Bar-Lev)—The story of professional football star and decorated U.S. soldier Pat Tillman, whose family takes on the U.S. government when their beloved son dies in a "friendly fire" incident in Afghanistan in 2004. World Premiere

Jean-Michel Basquiat: The Radiant Child (Director: Tamra Davis)—The story of artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, whose work defined, electrified and challenged an era, and whose untimely death at age 27 has made him a cultural icon. World Premiere

Joan Rivers: A Piece of Work (Directors: Ricki Stern and Annie Sundberg)—A rare, brutally honest glimpse into the comedic process and private dramas of legendary comedian and pop icon Joan Rivers as she fights tooth and nail to keep her American dream alive. World Premiere

Lucky (Director: Jeffrey Blitz)—The story of what happens when ordinary people hit the lottery jackpot.
World Premiere

My Perestroika (Director: Robin Hessman)—Intimately tracking the lives of five Muscovites who came of age just as the USSR collapsed and are adjusting to their post-Soviet reality, My Perestroika maps the contours of a nation in profound transition. World Premiere

The Oath (Director: Laura Poitras)— Filmed in Yemen, The Oath tells the story of two men whose fateful encounter in 1996 set them on a course of events that led them to Afghanistan, Osama bin Laden, 9/11, Guantanamo, and the U.S. Supreme Court. World Premiere

Restrepo (Directors: Sebastian Junger and Tim Hetherington)—Sebastian Junger and Tim Hetherington's year dug in with the Second Platoon in one of Afghanistan's most strategically crucial valleys reveals extraordinary insight into the surreal combination of back breaking labor, deadly firefights, and camaraderie as the soldiers painfully push back the Taliban. World Premiere

A Small Act (Director: Jennifer Arnold)—A young Kenyan’s life changes dramatically when his education is sponsored by a Swedish stranger. Years later, he founds his own scholarship program to replicate the kindness he once received. World Premiere

Smash His Camera (Director: Leon Gast)—Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis sued him, and Marlon Brando broke his jaw. The story of notorious, reviled paparazzo Ron Galella opens a Pandora's Box of issues from right to privacy, freedom of the press and the ever-growing vortex of celebrity worship. World Premiere

12th & Delaware (Directors: Rachel Grady and Heidi Ewing)—The abortion battle continues to rage in unexpected ways on an unassuming corner in America. World Premiere

Waiting for Superman (Director: Davis Guggenheim)—Waiting for Superman examines the crisis of public education in the United States through multiple interlocking stories—from a handful of students and their families whose futures hang in the balance, to the educators and reformers trying to find real and lasting solutions within a dysfunctional system. World Premiere

For the full article and entrant listings, visit Festival.Sundance.Org

Thanks to @kstew411 for additional information

The Bachelorette: Jillian Harris and Ed Swiderski - Where are they now?

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy) — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 04:58:00 +0000

Photos:

Many of you might be wondering what ever became of Ed Swiderski and The Bachelorette's Jillian Harris, particularly after his cheating scandal in the late fall. Rest easy - all is well in Bachelorette land. Jillian moved into Ed's Chicago (former) bachelor pad and within two months found a job at design firm The Dobbins Group. Jillian has also made plenty of friends and Ed claims she now has more than he does! Jillian and Ed were last spotted at the Bull and Bear Bar in Chicago's River North neighborhood a few weeks ago. Below is more information about the couple for your reading enjoyment:

"We want everybody to know we are extremely happy and in love," Ed tells Ellen, so much so that the couple packed up Jillian's home in Vancouver this past weekend and are officially moving in together next week.

Jillian tells Ellen, "This engagement is very different than a typical engagement. As my father said, 'Jill, you are not walking down the aisle.' We are living together, adopting a dog, working charities together and attending family functions. Now we are trying to work at [our relationship at a ] more normal level."

Ed wants to make it clear that "in every sense of the word, I was a bachelor before I went on the show, but I am not perfect. I am a human being."

For the full article and additional quotes, visit ET Online

New Moon Pre-Screen & Opening Night

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy) — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 04:46:00 +0000

I had the pleasure of attending a pre-screening of New Moon in Chicago on November 19th, exactly 3 hrs and 15 minutes before the movie debuted to the public. All theaters were taken for the event, and it was odd how each theater had it's own persona, despite the random seating assignments. There were the "tween" theaters and "adult" theaters. There were "Team Edward" theaters (usually 18+ yrs) and "Team Jacob" theaters (the tweens and teens). There were twi-moms and twi-dads with their kids. There was a dad with his two kids, taking his daughter for her birthday. There was even a husband and wife who flew in from Florida just for the event. There was a TV crew, and when they were discovered, a group of about 10 cheerleaders got up and did a pre-planned "Team Jacob" cheer. Twice. (I tried not to listen). There were plenty of "Team Whoever" shirts to go around. There was a 9-yr old wearing Bella's prom dress. I was slightly embarrassed since that was my Halloween costume this year, but c'mon, my costume rocked! And let's face it - there were plenty of 30 and 40 yr old women there with their friends to see Rob. Thankfully and luckily I ended up in a small theater of mostly adults (less fangirl screaming) and our theater was deemed "Team Edward." WOOOHOOO!!!

Upon exiting the theater, we hit the mainstream crowd - the people in line for the first showing at 12:45am. I did see people lining up as early as about 7pm for that screening. I was amazed to see 3/4 of the lobby crammed together in a winding line of Twi-hards. Or maybe I wasn't that amazed. If you've looked at the numbers for the film this weekend ($142.8 million - 3rd highest grossing weekend, highest grossing midnight sales, highest grossing Friday sales ever ), you wouldn't be surprised by the line. Below are pictures from opening night (not the event) to give you an idea of the scale of this movie. Notice a girl wearing the Bella birthday dress. Guess I won't be wearing that for Halloween next year :)