Tag: Los Angeles

2017 AFI Fest: Centerpiece Galas and Tribute announced

October 20, 2017

AFI Fest 2017 logo

The following is a press release from the American Film Institute:

The American Film Institute (AFI) has announced the three Centerpiece Galas and Tribute that will take place at AFI FEST 2017 presented by Audi.  The Centerpiece Galas are: CALL ME BY YOUR NAME (DIR Luca Guadagnino) on Friday, November 10; THE DISASTER ARTIST (DIR James Franco) on Sunday, November 12; and HOSTILES (DIR Scott Cooper) on Tuesday, November 14. On Saturday, November 11, Academy Award®-winning documentary filmmaker Errol Morris will be honored with a Tribute following a screening of WORMWOOD.   All Gala screenings will take place at the TCL Chinese Theatre and the Errol Morris Tribute will take place at the Egyptian Theatre.

Errol Morris’ revered credits include the Oscar®-winning THE FOG OF WAR (2003), as well as GATES OF HEAVEN (1978), THE THIN BLUE LINE (1988), A BRIEF HISTORY OF TIME (1991), TABLOID (2010) and THE UNKNOWN KNOWN (2013). Morris serves on the AFI DOCS Film Festival Advisory Board and, in 2013, was the AFI DOCS Charles Guggenheim Symposium honoree.

To attend, guests can purchase AFI FEST Patron Packages — which include access to Galas and other high-demand films and events.

CENTERPIECE GALAS

CALL ME BY YOUR NAME — The new film from Sony Pictures Classics by Luca Guadagnino is a sensual and transcendent tale of first love, based on the acclaimed novel by André Aciman. It’s the summer of 1983 in the north of Italy, and Elio Perlman (Timothée Chalamet), a precocious 17-year-old American-Italian boy, spends his days in his family’s 17th-century villa, transcribing and playing classical music, reading and flirting with his friend Marzia (Esther Garrel). Elio enjoys a close relationship with his father (Michael Stuhlbarg), an eminent professor specializing in Greco-Roman culture, and his mother Annella (Amira Casar), a translator, who favor him with the fruits of high culture in a setting that overflows with natural delights. While Elio’s sophistication and intellectual gifts suggest he is already a fully-fledged adult, there is much that yet remains innocent and unformed about him, particularly about matters of the heart. One day, Oliver (Armie Hammer), a charming American scholar working on his doctorate, arrives as the annual summer intern tasked with helping Elio’s father. Amid the sun-drenched splendor of the setting, Elio and Oliver discover the heady beauty of awakening desire over the course of a summer that will alter their lives forever.

THE DISASTER ARTIST — Director James Franco reimagines the tragicomic true story of aspiring filmmaker and infamous Hollywood outsider Tommy Wiseau — an artist whose passion was as sincere as his methods were questionable — as a celebration of friendship, artistic expression and dreams pursued against insurmountable odds. Based on Greg Sestero’s bestselling tell-all about the making of Wiseau’s cult-classic disaster piece THE ROOM (“The Greatest Bad Movie Ever Made”), THE DISASTER ARTIST is a hilarious and welcome reminder that there is more than one way to become a legend — and no limit to what you can achieve when you have absolutely no idea what you’re doing. Franco directs, produces and stars in the film, delivering a transformative performance as Wiseau in this A24 release.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xcQVvln1KhU

HOSTILES — Set in 1892 at the cusp of the Industrial Revolution, the buffalo gone, America’s indigenous population vanquished and the frontier rapidly disappearing into settlements and cities, two bitter adversaries of the Indian Wars are forced into a final, unexpected encounter. Cavalry Captain Joseph Blocker (Christian Bale), a former war hero turned jailer, and Yellow Hawk (Wes Studi), a Northern Cheyenne war chief turned prisoner, are forced to partake in a hollow publicity stunt to bolster the personal and political fortunes of Blocker’s commanding officer. Stuck in Fort Berringer, a miserable New Mexican prison outpost, Yellow Hawk is to be released to Blocker and returned to the Cheyenne homeland in Montana. It’s a particularly cynical gambit, as Yellow Hawk is dying and upon his death, his family will be imprisoned on a reservation. A belligerent Blocker believes the Chief should die in prison and is threatened with court martial when he refuses to accompany his enemy home. The plan is set in motion and Blocker, his men, Yellow Hawk and his family become complicated traveling companions. Not long after their departure, the group happens upon Rosalee Quaid (Rosamund Pike), a traumatized survivor of a Comanche massacre, and she reluctantly joins. Blocker, Yellow Hawk and Quaid turn into the unlikely heart of HOSTILES. They are tenacious fighters who have been shaped by suffering, violence and loss. Compelled to work together to endure and survive a 1,000-mile journey of Odyssey-like proportions, they’re forced to confront their preconceived notions of one another, and realize that the worst of their differences were created by forces beyond their control. Their transformation from a place of antagonism and fear to one of compassion and tolerance is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and our capacity for change. HOSTILES features cinematography by AFI Conservatory alumnus Masanobu Takayanagi (Class of 2002).

TRIBUTE SCREENING

WORMWOOD — Directed by boundary-breaking filmmaker Errol Morris, WORMWOOD explores the limits of knowledge about the past and the lengths we’ll go in our search for the truth in a twisting, evolving story of one man’s 60-year quest to identify the circumstances of his father’s mysterious death. Combining a virtuosic performance by Peter Sarsgaard with Morris’ legendary interview style, WORMWOOD examines this case from every possible angle, bringing the viewer face to face with some of the United States’ darkest secrets. A Netflix Original Story told in six chapters.

As Previously Announced

AFI FEST takes place November 9–16, 2017, in the heart of Hollywood. Screenings, Galas and other events will be held at the TCL Chinese Theatre, the TCL Chinese 6 Theatres, the Egyptian Theatre, Dolby Cinema at the Vine, the Mark Goodson Screening Room at the American Film Institute and The Hollywood Roosevelt. The full festival lineup and schedule will be unveiled on Friday, October 27. Free tickets will be available on AFI.com/AFIFEST on Wednesday, November 1.

The Opening Night Gala will be MUDBOUND (DIR Dee Rees) on Thursday, November 9.  The Closing Night Gala will be the World Premiere of ALL THE MONEY IN THE WORLD with a Tribute to director Ridley Scott on Thursday, November 16.

Additionally, the New Auteurs and American Independent sections have been announced and more information about these sections can be found here.

This year, AFI FEST will present a retrospective of the work of Robert Altman (1925–2006), with screenings and discussions of 12 films: M*A*S*H (1970), MCCABE & MRS. MILLER (1971), THE LONG GOODBYE (1973), CALIFORNIA SPLIT (1974), NASHVILLE (1975), 3 WOMEN (1977), VINCENT & THEO (1990), THE PLAYER (1992), SHORT CUTS (1993), KANSAS CITY (1996), GOSFORD PARK (2001) and A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION (2006).

New educational experiences taking place as part of the festival this year include an AFI FEST Storytelling Bootcamp for Los Angeles Unified School District students.

AFI FEST will once again bring the best in global cinema to Los Angeles thanks to the visionary support of Audi — now in its 14th consecutive year as presenting sponsor of the festival. An enduring champion of the motion picture arts, Audi nurtures new and established voices through its support of AFI FEST and beyond, including the Audi Fellowship for Women at the AFI Conservatory, a new full-tuition scholarship investing in the future of female directors in film and television.

Patron packages ensure reserved seats for Galas, and all proceeds benefit the educational programs of the American Film Institute. A limited number of individual tickets to Galas and other screenings are also made available at no charge thanks to the event sponsors. Go to AFI.com now to purchase Patron Packages, which can include access to Galas and other high-demand films and events.

As part of their membership benefits, AFI members will receive a complimentary AFI FEST Cinepass, which allows access to all regular screenings and special offers at this year’s festival. Additionally, AFI members at the Two-Star level and above receive a 10% discount on all AFI FEST Patron Packages and Express Passes. Information about AFI membership is available at AFI.com/membership.

Audi is the exclusive presenting sponsor of AFI FEST 2017. Additional sponsors include AT&T; American Airlines, the official airline of AFI; and VIZIO, the official home theater sponsor of AFI.

About the American Film Institute
Celebrating its golden milestone, the American Film Institute began its mission on June 5, 1967 — to preserve the heritage of the motion picture, to honor the artists and their work and to educate the next generation of storytellers. Established by Lyndon B. Johnson’s presidential mandate in the White House Rose Garden, AFI is America’s promise to educate today’s audiences and tomorrow’s artists. The Institute was anchored by a foundation of luminaries from the film community including Gregory Peck as Chair, Sidney Poitier as Vice Chair, George Stevens, Jr., as Director and CEO with board members Francis Ford Coppola, Arthur Schlesinger, Jr., and Jack Valenti.

In 1969, AFI opened the Center for Advanced Film Studies, now called the AFI Conservatory, an elite MFA program whose inaugural class included Terrence Malick, Caleb Deschanel and Paul Schrader. The program’s acclaimed film and television alumni include

Andrea Arnold, Darren Aronofsky, Julie Dash, Patty Jenkins, Janusz Kamiński, David Lynch and Robert Richardson, among others.

In addition to the AFI Conservatory, AFI programs include the AFI Catalog of Feature Films and the AFI Archive, which preserve film heritage for future generations; the AFI Life Achievement Award, the highest honor for a career in film; AFI AWARDS, honoring the most outstanding movies and TV series of the year; AFI’s 100 Years…100 Movies television events and movie reference lists, which have introduced and reintroduced classic American movies to millions of film lovers; year-round and special event exhibition through AFI FEST presented by Audi, AFI DOCS and the AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center. For more information about AFI, visit AFI.com or connect with AFI at twitter.com/AmericanFilm, facebook.com/AmericanFilmInstitute, and youtube.com/AFI.

About AFI FEST presented by Audi
A program of the American Film Institute, AFI FEST presented by Audi is a celebration of global cinema and today’s Hollywood — a showcase for the best festival films of the year and an opportunity for master filmmakers and emerging artists to come together with audiences in the movie capital of the world. Celebrating its 31st edition, AFI FEST is the only festival of its stature that is free to the public. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences recognizes AFI FEST as a qualifying festival for both Short Film categories for the annual Academy Awards®. This year’s edition takes place November 9–16, 2017. Additional information about AFI FEST is available at AFI.com/AFIFEST. Connect with AFI FEST at facebook.com/AFIFEST, twitter.com/AFIFEST and youtube.com/AFI.

About Audi
Audi of America, Inc. and its U.S. dealers offer a full line of German-engineered luxury vehicles. The Audi Group is among the most successful luxury automotive brands globally. In 2016, AUDI AG delivered about 1.871 million Audi automobiles and broke all-time company sales records for the seventh straight year in the U.S. Visit www.audiusa.com or media.audiusa.com for more information regarding Audi vehicles and business topics.

Rolling Stones ‘Sticky Fingers’ 2015 Los Angeles concert gets home-video release

August 3, 2017

"The Rolling Stones' From The Vault: Sticky Fingers: Live At The Fonda Theatre 2015" (Photo courtesy of Eagle Rock Entertainment)
“The Rolling Stones’ From The Vault: Sticky Fingers: Live At The Fonda Theatre 2015” (Photo courtesy of Eagle Rock Entertainment)

The following is a press release from Eagle Rock Entertainment:

On September 29, 2017, Eagle Rock Entertainment will unveil The Rolling Stones’ From The Vault: Sticky Fingers: Live At The Fonda Theatre 2015 on DVD+CD, Blu-ray+CD, DVD+3LP, and digital formats [MSRP $21.98 DVD+CD, $26.98 Blu-ray+CD, $49.98 DVD+3LP] This is the fifth release “From The Vault”, a series of live concerts from The Rolling Stones archive which are being officially released for the first time.

This latest addition to the acclaimed “From The Vault” series captures a truly unique event in the storied history of The Rolling Stones. On May 20, 2015 at the Fonda Theatre in Hollywood, California, the band performed the entire Sticky Fingers album live in concert for the first (and so far only time) in their career. The show celebrated the reissue of the Sticky Fingers album and was the opening night of The Rolling Stones’ North American Zip Code Tour that would run over the next two months. The intimate setting of the Fonda Theatre was in contrast to the huge stadiums in which the band would perform for the rest of the tour and made this an incredibly special occasion for those fans lucky enough to get a ticket. This incredible release includes Stones classics like “Brown Sugar”, “Wild Horses”, “Start Me Up”, “Jumpin’ Jack Flash”, “Bitch”, “Dead Flowers”, “When The Whip Comes Down”, and more.

The DVD & Blu-ray include interviews with the band members intercut with full-length performances. The CD and 3LP feature the full show as performed on the night. As Bonus Features, the DVD & Blu-ray include tracks cut from the concert film: “All Down The Line”, “When The Whip Comes Down”, and “I Can’t Turn You Loose”.

From The Vault: Sticky Fingers Live At The Fonda Theatre 2015 is a full-blooded interpretation of one of The Rolling Stones’ most loved works. Combined with the bonus interviews, it proves an incredible experience for any Stones fan.

Pre-order on Amazon:
DVD+CD: http://amzn.to/2vwjCEe
Blu-ray+CD: http://amzn.to/2u45yNH
DVD+3LP: http://amzn.to/2v1XQ85

TRACK LISTING:
DVD:
1) Start Me Up
2) Sway
3) Dead Flowers
4) Wild Horses
5) Sister Morphine
6) You Gotta Move
7) Bitch
8) Can’t You Hear Me Knocking
9) I Got The Blues
10) Moonlight Mile
11) Brown Sugar
12) Rock Me Baby
13) Jumpin’ Jack Flash

Bonus tracks:
1) All Down The Line
2) When The Whip Comes Down
3) I Can’t Turn You Loose

CD:
1) Start Me Up
2) When The Whip Comes Down
3) All Down The Line
4) Sway
5) Dead Flowers
6) Wild Horses
7) Sister Morphine
8) You Gotta Move
9) Bitch
10) Can’t You Hear Me Knocking
11) I Got The BlueS
12) Moonlight Mile
13) Brown Sugar
14) Rock Me Baby
15) Jumpin’ Jack Flash
16) I Can’t Turn You Loose

3LP
Side A:
1) Start Me Up
2) When The Whip Comes Down
3) All Down The Line

Side B:
1) Sway
2) Dead Flowers
3) Wild Horses

Side C:
1) Sister Morphine
2) You Gotta Move
3) Bitch

Side D:
1) Can’t You Hear Me Knocking
2) I Got The Blues

Side E:
1) Moonlight Mile
2) Brown Sugar

Side F:
1) Rock Me Baby
2) Jumpin’ Jack Flash
3) I Can’t Turn You Loose

2017 MTV Video Music Awards: Kendrick Lamar is the leading contender

July 25, 2017

MTV VMA 2017 logo

The following is a press release from MTV:

MTV today announced nominations for the 2017 “MTV Video Music Awards” exclusively on Instagram Live, with Kendrick Lamar scoring the most of the year with eight nominations for his video “HUMBLE.” Katy Perry and The Weeknd are tied for five nominations each.   Building on the critical acclaim of the non-gendered categories at the 2017 MTV Movie & TV Awards, the network also announced the former “Best Female Video” and “Best Male Video” categories have been combined for “Artist of the Year.” Additionally, “Best Fight Against the System” has been added to celebrate videos that inspire viewers to stand up and fight injustice.  The 2017 MTV Video Music Awards will air live from the “Fabulous” Forum in Inglewood, Calif. on Sunday, August 27 AT 8:00 p.m. ET/PT.

True to their DNA, MTV is putting the fans in the forefront – unlike other awards shows.  In a global first, MTV announced today’s nominations on Instagram Live with an elite squad of Instagram stars.  To date, no previous tentpole awards show has utilized Instagram Live to announce their complete list of nominees.  With a combined social reach of over 30 million followers, the team of Instagrammers included; Bretman Rock, Ariel Martin (Baby Ariel), DC Young Fly, Andrea Russet, Chantel Jeffries, Ricky Dillon, StassiBaby, Jay Versace and Nate Garner.  Each influencer was tasked with unveiling a portion of the nominees on Instagram Live in a successive chain that ultimately revealed the full list.

Beginning today, fans can vote for their favorites across eight VMA categories, including Video of the Year, Artist of the Year, Best Collaboration and more by visiting vma.mtv.com.  Additionally, voting for the “Best New Artist” award, presented by Taco Bell®, will remain live through the 2017 “MTV Video Music Awards” Pre-Show airing at 7:00 p.m. ET/PT.  The top two artists will be revealed during the pre-show, kicking off a live Twitter hashtag vote with the winner being announced during the live main telecast.  Nominees for the socially voted category, “Best Song of Summer,” will be announced at a later date.

COMPLETE LIST OF NOMINEES

VIDEO OF THE YEAR
Kendrick Lamar – “HUMBLE.” (TDE/Aftermath/Interscope)
Bruno Mars – “24K Magic” (Atlantic Records)
Alessia Cara – “Scars To Your Beautiful” (Def Jam)
DJ Khaled ft. Rihanna & Bryson Tiller – “Wild Thoughts” (Epic Records/We The Best)
The Weeknd – “Reminder” (XO/Republic Records)

ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Bruno Mars (Atlantic Records)
Kendrick Lamar (TDE/Aftermath/Interscope)
Ed Sheeran (Atlantic Records)
Ariana Grande (Republic Records)
The Weeknd (XO/Republic Records)
Lorde (Republic Records)

BEST NEW ARTIST (Presented by Taco Bell®)
Khalid (RCA Records)
Kodak Black (Atlantic Records)
SZA (TDE/RCA Records)
Young M.A (3D)
Julia Michaels (Republic Records)
Noah Cyrus (Records)

BEST COLLABORATION
Charlie Puth ft. Selena Gomez – “We Don’t Talk Anymore” (Atlantic Records)
DJ Khaled ft. Rihanna & Bryson Tiller – “Wild Thoughts” (Epic Records/We The Best)
D.R.A.M. ft. Lil Yachty – “Broccoli” (Atlantic Records)
The Chainsmokers ft. Halsey – “Closer” (Disruptor Records/Columbia Records)
Calvin Harris ft. Pharrell Williams, Katy Perry & Big Sean – “Feels” (Columbia Records)
Zayn & Taylor Swift – “I Don’t Wanna Live Forever (Fifty Shades Darker)” (Republic Records)

BEST POP
Shawn Mendes – “Treat You Better” (Island Records)
Ed Sheeran – “Shape of You” (Asylum/Atlantic Records)
Harry Styles – “Sign Of The Times” (Columbia Records)
Fifth Harmony ft. Gucci Mane – “Down” (Syco Music/Epic Records)
Katy Perry ft. Skip Marley – “Chained To The Rhythm” (Capitol Records)
Miley Cyrus – “Malibu” (RCA Records)

BEST HIP HOP
Kendrick Lamar – “HUMBLE.” (TDE/Aftermath/Interscope)
Big Sean – “Bounce Back” (Def Jam)
Chance the Rapper – “Same Drugs” (Chance the Rapper LLC)
D.R.A.M. ft. Lil Yachty – “Broccoli” (Atlantic Records)
Migos ft. Lil Uzi Vert – “Bad & Boujee” (300 Entertainment)
DJ Khaled ft. Justin Bieber, Quavo, Chance the Rapper & Lil Wayne – “I’m The One” (Epic Records/We The Best)

BEST DANCE
Zedd and Alessia Cara – “Stay” (Interscope)
Kygo x Selena Gomez – “It Ain’t Me” (Ultra/Interscope)
Calvin Harris – “My Way” (Columbia Records)
Major Lazer ft. Justin Bieber and Mø – “Cold Water” (Mad Decent)
Afrojack ft. Ty Dolla $ign – “Gone” (Wall Recordings/Latium/RCA Records)

BEST ROCK
Coldplay – “A Head Full of Dreams” (Parlophone/Atlantic Records)
Fall Out Boy – “Young And Menace” (Island)
Twenty One Pilots – “Heavydirtysoul” (Fueled by Ramen/Atlantic Records)
Green Day – “Bang Bang” (Warner Bros. Records)
Foo Fighters – “Run” (RCA Records)

BEST FIGHT AGAINST THE SYSTEM
Logic ft. Damian Lemar Hudson – “Black SpiderMan” (Def Jam)
The Hamilton Mixtape – “Immigrants (We Get the Job Done)” (Atlantic Records)
Big Sean – “Light” (Def Jam)
Alessia Cara – “Scars To Your Beautiful” (Def Jam)
Taboo ft. Shailene Woodley – “Stand Up / Stand N Rock #NoDAPL”
John Legend – “Surefire” (Columbia Records)

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY
Kendrick Lamar – “HUMBLE.” (TDE/Aftermath/Interscope) (Scott Cunningham)
Imagine Dragons – “Thunder” (KIDinaKORNER/Interscope) (Matthew Wise)
Ed Sheeran – “Castle On The Hill” (Asylum/Atlantic Records) (Steve Annis)
DJ Shadow ft. Run The Jewels – “Nobody Speak” (Mass Appeal Records LLC) (David Proctor)
Halsey – “Now or Never” (Astralwerks/Capitol) (Kristof Brandl)

BEST DIRECTION
Kendrick Lamar – “HUMBLE.” (TDE/Aftermath/Interscope) (Dave Meyers & the little homies)
Katy Perry ft. Skip Marley – “Chained To The Rhythm” (Capitol Records) (Mathew Cullen)
Bruno Mars – “24K Magic” (Atlantic Records)  (Cameron Duddy & Bruno Mars)
Alessia Cara – “Scars To Your Beautiful” (Def Jam) (Aaron A)
The Weeknd – “Reminder” (XO/Republic Records) (Glenn Michael)

BEST ART DIRECTION
Kendrick Lamar – “HUMBLE.” (TDE/Aftermath/Interscope) (Spencer Graves)
Bruno Mars – “24K Magic” (Atlantic Records) (Alex Delgado)
Katy Perry ft. Migos – “Bon Appetit” (Capitol Records) (Natalie Groce)
DJ Khaled ft. Rihanna & Bryson Tiller – “Wild Thoughts” (Epic Records/We The Best) (Damian Fyffe)
The Weeknd – “Reminder” (XO/Republic Records) (Creative Director: Lamar C Taylor / Co-creative Director: Christo Anesti)

BEST VISUAL EFFECTS
Kendrick Lamar – “HUMBLE.” (TDE/Aftermath/Interscope) (Company: Timber/Lead: Jonah Hall)
A Tribe Called Quest – “Dis Generation” (Epic Records) (Company: Bemo/Lead: Brandon Hirzel)
KYLE ft. Lil Yachty – “iSpy” (Atlantic Records) (Company: Gloria FX/Leads: Max Colt & Tomash Kuzmytskyi)
Katy Perry ft. Skip Marley – “Chained To The Rhythm” (Capitol Records) (Company: MIRADA)
Harry Styles – “Sign Of The Times” (Columbia Records) (Company: ONE MORE/Lead: Cédric Nivoliez)

BEST CHOREOGRAPHY
Kanye West – “Fade” (Def Jam) (Teyana Taylor, Guapo, Jae Blaze & Derek ‘Bentley’ Watkins)
Ariana Grande ft. Nicki Minaj – “Side To Side” (Republic Records) (Brian & Scott Nicholson)
Kendrick Lamar – “HUMBLE.” (TDE/Aftermath/Interscope)  (Dave Meyers)
Sia – “The Greatest” (Monkey Puzzle Records/RCA Records) (Ryan Heffington)
Fifth Harmony ft. Gucci Mane – “Down” (Syco Music/Epic Records) (Sean Bankhead)

BEST EDITING
Future – “Mask Off” (Epic Records/Freebandz/A1) (Vinnie Hobbs of VHPost)
Young Thug – “Wyclef Jean” (300 Entertainment/Atlantic Records) (Ryan Staake & Eric Degliomini)
Lorde – “Green Light” (Republic Records) (Nate Gross of Exile Edit)
The Chainsmokers ft. Halsey – “Closer” (Disruptor Records/Columbia Records) (Jennifer Kennedy)
The Weeknd – “Reminder” (XO/Republic Records) (Red Barbaza)

Jesse Ignjatovic returns as Executive Producer for the 2017 “MTV Video Music Awards.” Bruce Gillmer, Garrett English and Lee Lodge are Executive Producers. Melanie Block serves as Executive In Charge of Production. Amani Duncan is Music Executive in Charge. Wendy Plaut is Celebrity Talent Executive in Charge.

Official sponsors of the “2017 MTV Video Music Awards” include: Cadillac, Extra® Gum, PEPSI®, Swiffer®, Taco Bell®, truth®, and Verizon.

Alamo Drafthouse to open at The Bloc in Los Angeles in 2018

June 8, 2017

Alamo Drafthouse Downtown at The Bloc in Los Angeles
Alamo Drafthouse Downtown at The Bloc in Los Angeles (Rendering by Studio One Eleven)

The following is a press release from Alamo Drafthouse:

The Ratkovich Company, in partnership with  National Real Estate Advisors, Blue Vista Capital Management, and  Alamo Drafthouse Cinema today announced the Austin-based theater chain will open its first Los Angeles theater at  The Bloc, a 1.8 million-square-foot mixed-use destination at the hub of the city’s retail, entertainment, financial, and sports center. Alamo Drafthouse Downtown is slated to open in 2018 as The Bloc completes its $180 million renovations bringing a vibrant, open-air, pedestrian-friendly, urban destination to Downtown Los Angeles.

 “When we announced seven years ago that we would be embarking upon a plan of nationwide expansion, my primary goal was to open a theater in Los Angeles,” says Alamo Drafthouse Cinema founder and CEO Tim League.  “After many years of exhaustive searching and planning, we feel we have found the perfect home at The Bloc. Building a new audience for foreign language films, documentaries and independent movies is core to the Alamo brand, and this flagship theater will be ground zero for that effort.”
“Alamo Drafthouse is the perfect addition to The Bloc and to Downtown LA’s rapidly growing food and entertainment scene. It brings a fresh and unique take on the traditional movie-watching experience and will be a great compliment to the other retailers at The Bloc. The Bloc is a gathering place for all Angelenos, making it the place to be in Downtown LA.” said Wayne Ratkovich founder and president of The Ratkovich Company.
Alamo Drafthouse provides a unique cinematic experience with in-theater dining underpinning a heavily curated program of hand-picked blockbusters, highest-quality independent, foreign and documentary features and special event programming. It’s food and beverage offering is equally deliberate with a full menu offering food made from scratch and a heavy dose of the best local craft beers and cocktails. Alamo Drafthouse Downtown will be located on the second and third floors of the southwest corner of The Bloc, accessible from the Flower Street mid-block crossing and the fourth floor of the parking structure.
Alamo Drafthouse Downtown at The Bloc in Los Angeles
Alamo Drafthouse Downtown at The Bloc in Los Angeles (Rendering by Studio One Eleven)
Alamo Drafthouse Downtown will have 12 screens and seat approximately 560 people for new release movies, independent, foreign and classic films, as well as an exhaustive slate of the Alamo’s unique signature event programming. Each of the auditoriums will be equipped with state of the art 4K digital projection and amazing sound.  In addition to providing superior presentation, the Alamo eliminates the traditional front rows to ensure there’s no bad seat in the house. The theater will also be equipped for 3D and archival 35mm projection.
In keeping with Alamo Drafthouse’s commitment to providing the best in-theater dining experience, the downtown LA destination will feature locally inspired and sourced food and drink. Moviegoers can order food and drinks from their seats while servers silently attend to them throughout the film. In addition to the twelve theaters, an adjoining bar will give fans the opportunity to discuss films over a plethora of local craft beers and cocktails.
Accessibility and integration with the city at large continues to be a priority for The Bloc and Alamo Drafthouse. Alamo Drafthouse Downtown will be conveniently accessed via the Blue, Expo, Purple and Red lines at the 7th Street Metro Center Station. Current Metro expansion connects Alamo Drafthouse Downtown to Santa Monica, Pasadena and the San Fernando Valley. The theater will offer four hours of free validated parking..
By delivering the best films, food and drinks, exceptional presentation, strict ad-free and no talking/no texting policies, Alamo Drafthouse strives to live up to Time Magazine’s claim of being the “Best Theater Ever.”
UPDATE: Alamo Drafthouse Los Angeles is now expected to open in 2019.

 

2017 BET Awards: Beyoncé is the top nominee

May 15, 2017

2017 BET Awards

Beyoncé at the 59th Annual Grammy Awards at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles on February 12, 2017. ( Photo by Monty Brinton/CBS)

The following is a press release from BET:

BET Networks, a unit of Viacom Inc. today announced the nominations for the 2017  “BET Awards”  taking place at Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday, June 25. This year’s broadcast marks 17 years of unexpected performances, trailblazing moments, super dope talent, and entertainment’s most provocative players. The iconic show continues to be a cultural rule breaker steeped in reinvention with some of the most memorable moments in Award show history. In 2016, Beyoncé and Kendrick Lamar surprised guests with a groundbreaking performance of “Freedom,” Sheila E. and Mayte Garcia performed during the Prince Lifetime Achievement Award tribute and Jesse Williams brought the audience to their feet with his dynamic and ever-viral Humanitarian Award acceptance speech. The “BET Awards” has set the standard for one of the most intently unconventional, news-provoking broadcasts.

Beyoncé dominates this year’s nominations with a total of seven including ‘Best Female R&B/Pop Artist,’ ‘Best Collaboration’ with Kendrick Lamar for “Freedom,” ‘Video of the Year,’ and ‘Album of the Year’ for Lemonade. Bruno Mars follows with five nods including ‘Album of the Year,’ ‘Best Male R&B/Pop Artist,’ and ‘Video of the Year’ for “24K Magic.”  Other nominees include Solange, nominated for four awards and who is up against sister Beyoncé for ‘Best Female R&B/Pop Artist.’ Chance the Rapper and Migos receive four nominations as well, Chance the Rapper nominated for ‘Best Male Hip-Hop Artist’ and ‘Best New Artist’ and Migos for ‘Best Group’ and ‘Best Collaboration’ for their #1 hit “Bad and Boujee” with Lil Uzi Vert.

BET Networks recognizes artists, entertainers, and athletes across over 19 categories with the 2017 “BET Awards“ nominations. The nominations are selected by BET’s Voting Academy, which is comprised of fans and an esteemed group of entertainment professionals in the fields of television, film, music, social media, digital marketing, sports journalism, public relations, and the creative arts.

May 25, 2017 UPDATE: Actress/comedian Leslie Jones will host the 2017 BET Awards

The complete list of nominees for the 2017 BET Awards are:

Best Female R&B/Pop Artist

BEYONCÉ

KEHLANI

MARY J. BLIGE

RIHANNA

SOLANGE

 

Best Male R&B/Pop Artist

BRUNO MARS

CHRIS BROWN

THE WEEKND

TREY SONGZ

USHER

 

Best Group

2 CHAINZ & LIL WAYNE

A TRIBE CALLED QUEST

FAT JOE & REMY MA

MIGOS

RAE SREMMURD

 

Best Collaboration

BEYONCÉ FT. KENDRICK LAMAR – FREEDOM

CHANCE THE RAPPER FT. 2 CHAINZ & LIL WAYNE – NO PROBLEM

CHRIS BROWN FT. GUCCI MANE & USHER – PARTY

DJ KHALED FT. BEYONCÉ & JAY Z – SHINING

MIGOS FT. LIL UZI VERT – BAD AND BOUJEE

RAE SREMMURD FT. GUCCI MANE – BLACK BEATLES

 

Best Male Hip-Hop Artist

BIG SEAN

CHANCE THE RAPPER

DRAKE

FUTURE

J. COLE

KENDRICK LAMAR

 

Best Female Hip-Hop Artist

CARDI B

MISSY ELLIOTT

NICKI MINAJ

REMY MA

YOUNG M.A.

 

Video of the Year

BEYONCÉ – SORRY

BIG SEAN – BOUNCE BACK

BRUNO MARS   – 24K MAGIC

MIGOS FT. LIL UZI VERT – BAD AND BOUJEE

SOLANGE – CRANES IN THE SKY

 

Video Director of the Year

BENNY BOOM – KEHLANI “CRZY”

BRUNO MARS & JONATHAN LIA – BRUNO MARS “THAT’S WHAT I LIKE”

DIRECTOR X – ZAYN MALIK “LIKE I WOULD”

HYPE WILLIAMS – TYGA “GUCCI SNAKES FT. DESIIGNER”

KAHLIL JOSEPH & BEYONCÉ KNOWLES-CARTER – BEYONCÉ “SORRY”

 

Best New Artist

21 SAVAGE

CARDI B

CHANCE THE RAPPER

KHALID

YOUNG M.A.

 

Album of the Year

24K MAGIC – BRUNO MARS

4 YOUR EYEZ ONLY – J. COLE

A SEAT AT THE TABLE – SOLANGE

COLORING BOOK – CHANCE THE RAPPER

LEMONADE – BEYONCÉ

 

Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award

CECE WINANS – NEVER HAVE TO BE ALONE

FANTASIA FT. TYE TRIBBETT – I MADE IT

KIRK FRANKLIN FT. SARAH REEVES, TASHA COBBS & TAMELA MANN – MY WORLD NEEDS YOU

LECRAE – CAN’T STOP ME NOW (DESTINATION)

TAMELA MANN – GOD PROVIDES

 

Best Actress

GABRIELLE UNION

ISSA RAE

JANELLE MONÁE

TARAJI P. HENSON

VIOLA DAVIS

 

Best Actor

BRYSHERE Y. GRAY

DENZEL WASHINGTON

DONALD GLOVER

MAHERSHALA ALI

OMARI HARDWICK

 

YoungStars Award

ACE HUNTER

CALEB MCLAUGHLIN

JADEN SMITH

MARSAI MARTIN

YARA SHAHIDI

 

Best Movie

FENCES

GET OUT!

HIDDEN FIGURES

MOONLIGHT

THE BIRTH OF A NATION

 

Sportswoman of the Year Award

GABBY DOUGLAS

SERENA WILLIAMS

SIMONE BILES

SKYLAR DIGGINS

VENUS WILLIAMS

 

Sportsman of the Year Award

CAM NEWTON

LEBRON JAMES

ODELL BECKHAM JR.

RUSSELL WESTBROOK

STEPHEN CURRY

 

Centric Award

FANTASIA – SLEEPING WITH THE ONE I LOVE

KEHLANI – DISTRACTION

MARY J. BLIGE – THICK OF IT

SOLANGE – CRANES IN THE SKY

SYD – ALL ABOUT ME

YUNA – CRUSH FT. USHER

 

Coca-Cola Viewers’ Choice Award

BEYONCÉ – SORRY

BRUNO MARS – 24K MAGIC

DRAKE – FAKE LOVE

MIGOS FT. LIL UZI VERT – BAD AND BOUJEE

RAE SREMMURD FT. GUCCI MANE – BLACK BEATLES

THE WEEKND FT. DAFT PUNK – STARBOY

 

Best International Act: Europe

BOOBA (France)

MHD (France)

CRAIG DAVID (UK)

EMELI SANDE (UK)

GIGGS (UK)

SKEPTA (UK)

STORMZY (UK)

WILEY (UK)

 

Best International Act: Africa

AKA (South Africa)

BABES WODUMO (South Africa)

DAVIDO (Nigeria)

NASTY C (South Africa)

STONEBWOY (Ghana)

TEKNO (Nigeria)

WIZKID (Nigeria)

MR EAZI (Nigeria)

 

The 2017 “BET Awards” will premiere around the world on BET’s international networks. It will air in the UK on Tuesday, June 27th at 9:00pm BST, in Africa on Tuesday, June 27th at 8:00pm CAT, and in France on Wednesday, June 28th at 9:00pm CEST. Fan voting for the “Best International Act: Europe” and “Best International Act: Africa” categories opens today and will close on May 26. Internationally, fans in 100 countries can also stream the 2017 “BET Awards” live with BET Play, BET International’s subscription video on demand application. The iOS and Android app, which also features current and classic BET television series, documentaries, standup comedy and legendary musical performances, will carry a live feed of the red carpet and the Awards, and is available for download now in the iTunes and Google Play stores for $3.99 a month following a seven-day free trial.

2017 VH1 ‘Dear Mama’: Event Photos and Videos

May 8, 2017

VH1 Dear Mama

Dear Mama
Halle Berry, Kelly Rowland and La La Anthony at VH1’s “Dear Mama” event at The Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens in Los Angeles on May 6, 2017. (Photo by Todd Williamson/Getty Images for VH1)

The following is an excerpt from a VH1 press release:

VH1 has released highlights from the second annual Mother’s Day special “Dear Mama: An Event To Honor Moms” which premieres May 8, 2017, at 10 p.m. Eastern Time/Pacific Time.  Co-hosted by Anthony Anderson and La La Anthony, the event as recorded at at The Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens in Los Angeles on May 6, 2017. “Dear Mama” recognizes mothers with celebrity guests paying tribute to the women who have shaped their success. Celebrity participants include Halle Berry, Mary J. Blige, Jodeci, DJ Khaled, Gladys Knight, Ludacris, Maxwell, Chris Paul, Kelly Rowland and Robin Thicke.

Highlights include:

  • Co-hosts Anthony Anderson and La La Anthony welcoming guests to the show by sharing anecdotes about their own mothers and sparking some good-natured ribbing.
  • DJ Khaled providing a rare glimpse into his home via a tribute to his fiancée Nicole Tuck and their six month-old son Ashad. He then introduced Mr. Dalvin and K-Ci of the R&B group Jodeci, who serenaded the mothers in the house with their classic hit “Forever My Lady.”
  • Ludacris commemorating the lasting impact of his mother Roberta Shields, and her unconditional love and support.
  • Robin Thicke honoring his motherGloria Loring with a heartfelt selection of beloved jingles written by his father Alan Thicke and originally sung by his mother including “It Takes Diff’rent Strokes” and “The Facts of Life” culminating in a joint performance of her #1 80s hit ballad “Friends and Lovers,” with charmingly reworked lyrics replacing “lover” with “mother.”
  • Kelly Rowland applauding her best friend La La for her friendship, great parenting advice and exemplary skills as a mother and role model to her son Kiyan Carmelo Anthony followed by a surprise performance by Anthony Anderson of his own rendition of Bruno Mars’ hit “That’s What I Like,” in honor of his co-host.
  • Academy Award winner Halle Berry paying tribute to the crucial work of the Jenesse Center, a non-profit organization which aims to prevent domestic violence against women and children by introducing survivor Yesica Mendoza who took the stage to express her gratitude for the center and Berry’s commitment to the organization.
  • Queen of R&B Mary J. Blige giving a moving speech about her mother Cora Blige and then surprising her with a jaw dropping performance by Gladys Knight who sang her classic “Midnight Train to Georgia,” Mrs. Blige’s favorite song.
  • NBA superstar Chris Paul and his brother CJ recounting their childhood with their mother, Robin Paul, praising her selfless sacrifice and relentless drive to give them opportunities to better their lives.
  • Taraji P. Henson and Pitbull recognizing the great work of the #SeeHer initiative of which Viacom is a partner. #SeeHer’s mission is to lead the movement to accurately portray women and girls in media, so that by 2020, they see themselves reflected as they truly are.
  • Maxwell ending the night by bringing the house down with his hit song “Fortunate,” which he dedicated to his late grandmother.

Official sponsors of “Dear Mama: An Event To Honor Moms” include America’s Best Contacts & Eyeglasses, DOVE® I Chocolate, Honey Bunches of Oats, Strongbow Hard Apple Ciders, Tide PODS, T.J.Maxx and Unilever.

“Dear Mama: An Event To Honor Moms” was produced by Flavor Unit and Jesse Collins Entertainment.  Shakim Compere, Queen Latifah, Jesse Collins, and Jeannae Rouzan-Clay are Executive Producers.  For VH1, Amy Doyle, Ryan Kroft, and Elena Diaz are Executive Producers, Paige Milleris Coordinating Producer, and Joe Buoye is Executive in Charge of Production.

Artist Awol Erizku created an Instagram installation at the event and took portraits of talent and their mothers. Portraits can be found on the @VH1 Instagram account.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9xAu1UwVysI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7VIZS2XM9So

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z8HNZ10yKqM

Hotel Indigo Los Angeles Downtown opens for business

April 5, 2017

Hotel Indigo Los Angeles Downtown
(Rendering courtesy of Hotel Indigo Los Angeles Downtown)

Hotel Indigo Los Angeles Downtown has opened at Francisco Street in the new 6.3 acre mixed-use Metropolis development. According to a Hotel Indigo press release, the 350-room, 18-story flagship hotel’s design concept was created by Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA), which was inspired by the 1920s Prohibition era, infusing elements from the underground speakeasies and tunnels, the Fiesta de las Flores parade, the budding Hollywood movie industry, as well as historic Chinatown.  The property is walking distance to the city’s major attractions including the L.A. Live entertainment district, Staples Center and Los Angeles Convention Center.

The Hotel Indigo Los Angeles Downtown hotel features dining with the lobby-level Metropole Bar+Kitchen, inspired by the tunnels beneath downtown Los Angeles. The top-floor cocktail lounge, 18 Social, offers inspired décor that brings to life what it was like to slip underground into the world of speakeasies during prohibition America. The 9,100-square-foot outdoor pool terrace located on the fourth-floor highlights sweeping views of Los Angeles and is outfitted with a bar and a variety of seating options.

The guestrooms feature murals depicting the elements of old Hollywood with plush bedding, hard-surface flooring with area rugs and spa-inspired bathrooms with Jonathan Adler amenities. The hotel includes three luxury suites, including the Presidential suite inspired by hotel muse Anna May Wong, the first Chinese-American movie star.

Guests have access to a 24-hour fitness center and nearly 22,000 square feet of meeting space across 11 rooms. The Los Angeles hotel features the brand’s Neighborhood Guide, an innovative touchscreen display that connects guests to each other, the local neighborhood and to Hotel Indigo locations around the world. Hotel team members, many of whom are locals themselves, will share their favorite hidden gems with guests looking to explore and discover the neighborhood.

 

The Hotel Indigo Los Angeles Downtown hotel is owned by Greenland USA and is managed by IHG. Greenland USA is a subsidiary of Shanghai-based Greenland Group.

 

 

Skyline festival for art, music and food debuts in Los Angeles

March 30, 2017

Radio Hill's Skyline festival

Radio Hill—a new collective of Los Angeles-based concert producers, festival planners and talent curators— is debuting the new festival Skyline: Art, Music, Food, which will take place at the Los Angeles State Historic Park on May 20, 2017. Acts scheduled to perform include Miike Snow, Duke Dumont, Lido, Eden, Michl, Elohim and Jason Bentley. Tickets will go on sale March 31, 2017, at 12 p.m. Pacific Time at RadioHillEvents.com.

Radio Hill is producing the event with local partners KCRW, The Well, Space Yacht and DoLA. It will be the first major music gathering to take place at the recently remodeled Los Angeles State Historic Park since 2014.

According to a press release, Skyline will host a lineup of craft food vendors from all over Los Angeles, in addition to a selection of L.A.-based artists who will display interactive installations throughout the park. The festival is open to people ages 21 and over.

MTV revamps movie award show to add TV categories, launches fan fest for the show

March 13, 2017

MTV Movie & TV Awards

MTV has changed its annual movie award show by adding TV categories. The inaugural MTV Movie & TV Awards will be televised live on MTV from the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles on May 7, 2017, at 8 p.m. ET. The show’s host, nominations, performers and presenters will be announced at a later date.

According to a press release from MTV, in the lead-up to the live show on May 7, fans will be treated to the inaugural Movie & Television Festival.  Live musical acts, special guests and food will transform the area outside of the Shrine Auditorium into a massive, daylong party.  The afternoon will culminate with attendees getting a front-row spot for viewing celebrity red-carpet arrivals for the evening’s main event.  Ticketing details and a full list of performers will be announced at a later date.

Casey Patterson will serve as executive producer, with MTV’s Garrett English for the 2017 MTV Movie & TV Awards. Melanie Block is executive in charge of production. Wendy Plaut serves as co-executive producer and executive in charge of celebrity talent.  Amani Duncan is executive in charge of music talent.

The MTV Movie Awards began in 1992. The awards are voted for by fans in MTV’s primarily youth-oriented target audience. The show has tended to focus on movies that appeal to teens and people in their 20s. The event also features musical performances from current hitmaking artists.

2017 All-Star Chef Classic announces lineup

January 12, 2017
All-Star Chef Classic

The fourth annual All-Star Chef Classic takes place March 8 to 11, 2017, at L.A. Live in Downtown Los Angeles’ Sports and Entertainment District. Here are some of the highlights, according to a press release from the festival.

New in 2017: a strolling event called the Italian Masters Dinner presented by Melissa’s Produce and Southern Eats.

Returning to L.A. LIVE’s custom-built Event Deck, which includes Restaurant Stadium and the Chefs’ Tasting Arena, will be the Masters Dinner series dedicated to French, Italian, American, and Asian talent and preparations

Little Masters presented by Le Creuset and Grill & Chill presented by DCS and Stella Artois.

Restaurant Stadium’s 300-plus seats bring fans “kitchen-side,” allowing them an intimate and memorable culinary venture.

The 2017 edition of All-Star Chef Classic is partnering with L.A. Kitchen benefit the local non-profit that combines the potential and power of food and people, ensuring that neither goes to waste.

The 2017 All-Star Chef Classic will include more than 55 internationally-renowned chefs and personalities including:

  • Hugh Acheson (The National, Georgia)
  • Govind Armstrong (Post & Beam, Los Angeles)
  • Jamie Bissonnette (Coppa, Boston, New York)
  • Ashley Christensen (Poole’s, North Carolina)
  • Adam Cole (Maple Block Meat Co., Los Angeles)
  • Chris Cosentino (Cockscomb, San Francisco; Acacia House, St. Helena)
  • Francis Derby (The Cannibal, Los Angeles), Chris Oh (Hanjip, Los Angeles)
  • Brian Dunsmoor (Hatchet Hall, Los Angeles)
  • Ben Ford (Ford’s Filling Station, Los Angeles)
  • Neal Fraser (Redbird, Fritzi, Los Angeles)
  • Ray Garcia (Broken Spanish, Los Angeles)
  • Della Gossett (Spago, Los Angeles)
  • Duff Goldman (Cake Mix, Los Angeles)
  • Scott Howard (Citizen, Los Angeles)
  • Ravi Kapur (Liholiho Yacht Club, San Francisco
  • Joe Kindred (Kindred, North Carolina)
  • Mike Lata (Fig, Charleston)
  • Ludo Lefebvre (Trois Mec, Petit Trois, Los Angeles)
  • David Lefevre (MB Post, Fishing With Dynamite, Manhattan Beach)
  • Antonia Lofaso (Scopa Italian Roots, Los Angeles)
  • Samuel Monsour (Preux & Proper, Los Angeles)
  • Dahlia Narvaez (Osteria Mozza, Los Angeles)
  • Jason Neroni (Rose Café, Los Angeles)
  • Mirko Paderno (Culina, Los Angeles)
  • Greg Schroeppel (Nighthawk Breakfast Bar, Los Angeles)
  • Jon Shook & Vinny Dotolo (Son of a Gun, Los Angeles)
  • Art Smith (Reunion Florida Garden and Kitchen School, Florida)
  • Curtis Stone (Maude, Gwen, Los Angeles)
  • Jet Tila (Los Angeles)
  • Kris Tominaga (The Hart & The Hunter, Los Angeles), Brandon Boudet (Little Dom’s, Los Angeles)
  • Fabio Viviani (Siena Tavern, Chicago)
  • Fabian von Hauske & Jeremiah Stone (Wildair, Contra, New York)
  • Sherry Yard (Helms Bakery, The Tuck Room, Los Angeles)
  • Sang Yoon (Lukshon, Father’s Office, Los Angeles)
  • Johnny Ray Zone (Howlin’ Rays, Los Angeles)
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