Knight Time: Papal bad, pagan good. That’s one of the messages of the latest version of “King Arthur.” As everyone knows by now, the film takes out the many magical myths that surround the “classic” version (wizards, the Lady of the Lake, Morgana Le Faye), and offers up what may have been the actual roots of the legend. It’s tribal and the Merlin of this story is a shaman.

The film is loaded with beautiful, sexy men (Clive Owen, Ioan Gruffud, Hugh Dancy, Joel Edgerton, and more), and it’s very heavy on the action/battle sequences, much like “The Two Towers.” While it begins with a very young Briton Lancelot being taken away from his family for a 15-year commitment to the Romans, there’s not a lot of back story or development of character and relationships. That said, the film still manages to engage and create an empathy for the lead characters – here, Arthur (Owen), Lancelot (Gruffud) and Guinevere (Keira Knightly, looking stunning, and carrying the weight of pretty much all the estrogen in the film).

Stellan Skarsgård plays a particularly low-key and immoral Saxon leader. The Saxons and their marching hoardes are single-minded and determined, and reliant on their large numbers in battles.

The film’s mostly successful because in addition to relentless, effective scenes of war (and managing to omit excessive gore), the acting is subtle and emotional. When Arthur is desperate, caught between his beliefs in the Roman God and the land of his mother, the audience can feel his pain, understand his dilemma. And there is also a very believable friendship between Arthur and his men. Dane Mads Mikkelsen, who plays Knight Tristan, is an appealing actor to keep an eye on.

Who’s Wearing What: Melissa Rivers will wear dress by Elsie Katz Couture to tomorrow night's Victor Sports Awards held at the Hilton in Las Vegas. She’ll wear an iridescent green taffeta dress, featuring pink flowers at the bust and a tulle hem.

Lug an Ugg: Neiman Marcus is giving away (in a contest, of course) the likely to be much sought after Ugg purse. Check out www.neimanmarcus.com.

Not So Mousy “Librarian” : Kyle MacLachlan (Sex and the City, Twin Peaks), Sonya Walger (Coupling, The Mind of the Married Man), Oscar winner Olympia Dukakis (Moonstruck, Steel Magnolias), Kelly Hu (X2, The Scorpion King) and David Dayan Fisher (Jerry Bruckheimer's National Treasure), as well as Bob Newhart (Elf, The Bob Newhart Show) and Jane Curtin (Our Town, 3rd Rock from the Sun), have signed on to join Noah Wyle (ER, Pirates of Silicon Valley) in Turner Network Television (TNT)'s dramatic action-adventure original film “The Librarian,” it was announced today by Michael Wright, senior vice president of original programming for TNT. In addition, Peter Winther (The Tag) has signed to direct the project set to premiere on TNT in Fourth Quarter 2004. Production is currently underway in Mexico City.

THE LIBARIAN is being executive produced by Dean Devlin (Independence Day, The Patriot) under his Electric Entertainment banner and produced by Phil Goldfarb (Monk, Roswell). The script is by David Titcher (Around the World in 80 Days) who also serves as co-producer. Marc Roskin and Kearie Peak (both executives at Electric Entertainment) have co-producing duties on the film, as well.

In THE LIBRARIAN, Wyle plays Flynn Carsen, a man charged with protecting the repository of humanity's greatest secrets, all hidden beneath the monolithic New York Public Library. The story opens as a villainous group known as the Serpent Brotherhood steals one of three pieces of the Spear of Destiny, an ancient holy relic. If the three pieces are put back together again, it will give the person wielding the spear world domination. It is then a race against time as Carsen tries to track down the other two pieces before the Serpent Brotherhood can get their hands on them. Helping him in his dangerous quest is Nicole Noone (Wagner). Dukakis plays the role of Carsen's mother, Margie, while MacLachlan plays Carsen's predecessor, Edward Wilde. Hu and Fisher are key members of the Serpent Brotherhood determined to thwart Carsen's efforts to retrieve the Spear of Destiny. Newhart plays Judson, head of the Library, while Curtin plays Charlene, who is in charge of the Library staff.

MacLachlan is well known to television viewers for his roles in such popular TV series as Sex and the City and David Lynch's Twin Peaks. He previously worked with Lynch when he played the lead roles in the director's Dune and Blue Velvet. MacLachlan's extensive list of feature film credits includes The Doors, Rich in Love, The Trial, The Flintstones, Hamlet and Timecode. His television films include Against the Wall, and Roswell. MacLachlan will soon be seen in the feature Touch of Pink, set for release by Sony Pictures Classics, playing legendary actor Cary Grant.

Walger was featured in several British television series, including The Vice, Goodnight Sweetheart and Dangerfield, before landing starring roles in the television movies Noah's Ark and All the King's Men and the miniseries Heat of the Sun. She then starred in the series The Mind of the Married Man and Coupling. Walger's feature film credits include Eisenstein, the Search fo John Gissing and 40.

During a career that spans more than 40 years, Dukakis has worked as an actress, director, producer, teacher and activist. She received an Academy Awardâ for Best Supporting Actress for her work in the Norman Jewison film Moonstruck. Since then, she has starred in such hit films as Steel Magnolias, Working Girl, Look Who's Talking, Mighty Aphrodite and Mr. Holland's Opus. Dukakis' many television credits include all three Tales of the City miniseries, as well as the television movies The Pentagon Wars, Last of the Blonde Bombshells, A Match Made in Heaven, The Comfort Zone and the critically acclaimed miniseries Sinatra.

Hu has appeared in several feature films, most recently playing Lady Deathstrike in X2, the blockbuster sequel to X-Men. Her other credits include The Scorpion King, Strange Days, Surf Ninjas and The Doors. Hu has also been featured in the series Boomtown, Threat Matrix, Nash Bridges and Martial Law. Next up is the feature thriller The Underclassman.

Fisher has been featured on the television series Robbery Homicide Division, as well as in such feature films as The Last Post, The Diplomat and America Brown. He recently completed shooting National Treasure, starring Nicholas Cage.

Newhart is an Emmy-nominated performer who has made a name for himself with his deadpan comic style, on display in his successful television series The Bob Newhart Show and Newhart. Newhart's extensive film credits include Catch-22, On a Clear Day You Can See Forever, Cold Turkey, Little Miss Marker, In & Out, Legally Blonde 2: Red, White and Blonde and most recently the blockbuster comedy Elf. Last year, he earned critical acclaim for his guest role on ER. Newhart's 1960 comedy album The Button Down Mind of Bob Newhart was a #1 hit album.

Curtin began her career in 1974 when she auditioned for and landed a position in the first Saturday Night Live cast. After five years on that show, she went on to star with Susan Saint James in the hit comedy Kate & Allie, then with John Lithgow in the series 3rd Rock from the Sun. Curtin's feature film credits include How To Beat the High Co$t of Living, Antz and Coneheads, in which she reprised on of her most popular Saturday Night Live characters. She has also starred in such television movies as Divorce Wars: A Love Story, Maybe Baby, Common Ground, Tad and last year's critically acclaimed Our Town, with Paul Newman. She has just completed filming two feature films, Piggy Bank Blues and Lobster Farm.

As a producer, Winther has ushered such popular movies as Stargate, Independence Day, Godzilla, The Patriot and Eight-Legged Freaks to the screen. He got his first shot in the director's chair serving as second unit director on The Patriot. He then directed the short film The Tag, with Djimon Hounsou.

Storm’s A Comin’: MALIBU STORM WINS JANIS IAN¹S SEAL OF APPROVAL FOR COVER “SOME PEOPLE’S LIVES”

L.A.-based country trio Malibu Storm has made a new fan in singer-songwriter Janis Ian. The band recorded a cover of Ian¹s “Some People’s Lives” for their self-titled Rounder Records debut album, and the early review from the legendary songwriter is a four-star rave.

“I think they did a lovely, delicate job on a song I’ve always been immensely proud of,” said Ian. “It takes a lot of courage to sing a song this simple, and not overdo it.”
Ian¹s tune isn¹t the only cover drawing attention to Malibu Storm. Their debut single “Photograph,” a cover of the 1983 Def Leppard classic, hit #10 on the Billboard Country Singles Sales chart in its first week of release.

Award winning Ian began her career in 1966 with the performance of her original composition “Society’s Child,” a controversial song about interracial love. She has gone on to write and record more than 18 solo studio albums including the #1 “Between the Lines” which contained the Grammy Award winning single “At Seventeen,” as well as write the hit pop single “Jesse” for Roberta Flack. In recent news, Janis has taken on writing short science fiction stories and editing an anthology of short stories by other authors based on her lyrics. She is currently performing her music on a world-wide tour.

Comprised of twin sisters Dana and Lauren and brother Michael, the members of Malibu Storm began performing while still in their teens. Their remarkable musicianship has drawn the support of no less than the legendary Ralph Stanley. Their new self-titled country music Rounder cd was produced by Mark Bright (Rascal Flatts, Jo Dee Messina). The group is currently in the midst of a national radio tour in support of the new album, due August 10.

Talking Car: KNIGHT RIDER: THE COMPLETE FIRST SEASON Street Date: August 3rd, 2004 Price: $59.98 SRP

Series Synopsis: David Hasselhoff and his supercar K.I.T.T. throttle crime in every high-octane episode from the first season of Knight Rider, available on DVD.

The series follows the adventures of Michael Knight, a detective thought to be dead, who’s been given a new face and identity. His assignment: to fight crime with the help of an artificially intelligent, talking car named K.I.T.T., a high-speed, futuristic weapon outfitted with high-tech gadgets and a personality of its own. Driven by justice, they set out to take down criminals who operate above the law in this 22-episode DVD set.

Bonus Material: As a special bonus, this 4-disc set includes the television movie Knight Rider 2000 plus three featurettes: “Knight Moves,” “Knight Sounds” and “Knight Rider: Under the Hood” with interviews with David Hasselhoff and Glen Larson; “Knight of the Phoenix” commentary with David Hasselhoff and Glen Larson; Stills Gallery; Blueprints Gallery and a K.I.T.T Owner’s Manual.

Number of Discs: 4

Run Time: Disc 1 (6 Hours 28 Minutes), Disc 2 (6 Hours 29 Minutes), Disc 3 (4 Hours 52 Minutes), Disc 4 (approx. 2 hours)

Picture: Full Frame (1.33:1)

Audio: English Dolby Digital 2.0 Mono

Nick and Jessica Sighting: On Monday July 5, 2004, Jessica Simpson and husband, former 98 Degrees band member, Nick Lachey, had dinner at SUSHISAMBA rio in Chicago. In honor of the holiday, the couple took five of their friends to eat at the River North hotspot. Their check was $373.50, and they generously tipped $100. Jessica wore a pair of blue jeans and a black tank top. She and Nick sat in elevated dining for privacy, and faced the wall versus dining room so they wouldn't be recognized.

The group ate 10 different kinds of sushi rolls, a few sides like peruvian corn and sweet plantains, a couple raw bar items, only a few samba cocktails, a few "little plates" as well, like the South American Beef Maki Roll and our Crab Cake. The table indulged in no desserts.

Get Struttin’ – The Stray Cats Are Back!: THE STRAY CATS ARE BACK!! After a 12-year hiatus from touring and recording together, THE STRAY CATS are making up for lost time with a month-long reunion tour of Europe during which every show will be recorded and released on CD.

Original members Brian Setzer, Lee Rocker, and Slim Jim Phantom kicked off the 17-show run at the 6,500-seat Zenith in Paris, France on Monday, July 5, 2004. As a lasting souvenir to Stray Cats fans around the world, Surfdog Records will be releasing a live CD of every single show, with the aim of having each recording hit European store shelves within a week of the performance. All 17 will be released in the United States in August (nine of the shows on August 10, 2004 and eight on August 24, 2004).

Additionally, the sold-out show at London¹s legendary Brixton Academy will be captured on a live DVD/CD release entitled ³RUMBLE IN BRIXTON² (the namesake from their hit song, ³Rumble In Brighton²) set for an October 26, 2004 street date.

Igniting the early-‘80s rockabilly revival, THE STRAY CATS scored several big hits (including ³Rock This Town,² ³Stray Cat Strut,² ³Runaway Boys,² ³Sexy + 17,² and ³I Won¹t Stand In Your Way²) around the world. Their in-your-face and over-the-top visual appeal with sky-high pompadours, tattoos, and flashy teddy-boy suits got the public¹s attention, but it¹s kick-ass musical chops and timeless songs that have kept them viable to this day. 25 years after the Stray Cats¹ debut, the 2004 European tour sees the band performing to even larger audiences than in the days when they were enjoying multi-platinum success.


TOUR SCHEDULE:
July 5 Paris, France Zenith
July 6 Brussels, Belgium Forest National
July 9 Helsinki, Finland The Ice Palace
July 10 Turku, Finland Ruis Rock Festival
July 12 Berlin, Germany Columbiahalle
July 13 Hamburg, Germany Stadtpark
July 14 Amsterdam, Holland Paradiso
July 16 Machester, England Apollo
July 17 London, England Brixton Academy
July 18 London, England Shepherd¹s Bush Empire
July 20 Munich, Germany Coliseum
July 22 Barcelona, Spain Razzmatazz
July 24 Gijon, Spain Crossroads Festival
July 26 Lyon, France Fourvieres Antique Theatre
July 27 Luzern, Switzerland Blue Balls Festival
July 29 Bonn, Germany Museum Platz
July 30 Amsterdam, Holland Paradiso

Christian Applegate’s Shoe Secret: Christina Applegate chose “Snicker” from luxury footwear collection Mang by George Mang to the New York City premiere of Anchorman-The Legend of Ron Burgundy on July 7, 2004. “Snicker” is a round toe gray suede shoe on a cylindrical matching matte heel, with gray capretto leather details. It was perfect with her full-skirted dress.

HELP THE MONOLATORS: From our dear friends:

Some of you might have seen that our first full-length album, "Rejection Set Me Free," is now available for sale on cdbaby.com (we're going to have an official cd release party later when we play our comeback show in August).

What we need now, to woo potential shoppers, is a bunch of (glowing, we hope) reviews to go along with the album. That's why we're asking you to go to cdbaby and write a short review. You do NOT have to buy a copy of the album to do this! You can listen to all of the songs online for free on our cdbaby page. If you're broke (like us) and can't buy a copy right now, that's okay--writing a nice review would actually be a bigger favor to us at the moment.

Our page on cdbaby is here:

http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/monolators

www.themonolators.com

And You Thought It Was Vintage: Alexa Vega, star of “Sleepover”, was out the night before last in a Lynyrd Skynyrd “Tour ‘87” limited edition crew by TRUNK LTD. Uh, that would be the year BEFORE she was born, so she couldn’t have picked it up at her local arena. Check out http://www.trunkltd.com for cool clothes, like Vega’s “t.” They specialize in “moments in time” wear.



Been Missing that “90210” and “Melrose”? SOAPnet has acquired the exclusive broadcast rights to all seven seasons of Spelling Television's "Melrose Place" and all 10 seasons of Spelling Television's "Beverly Hills 90210" from Paramount Domestic Television, it was announced today by Deborah Blackwell, General Manager, SOAPnet.

"Melrose Place" will air weekdays on SOAPnet beginning September 13th at 6PM. The series starring Heather Locklear, Josie Bissett, Thomas Calabro, Doug Savant, Grant Show, Courtney Thorne-Smith, Jack Wagner and SOAPnet's own Lisa Rinna first aired on Fox from 1992-1999.

"Beverly Hills 90210", the long running teen drama featuring Jason Priestly, Tori Spelling, Jennie Garth, Ian Ziering, Gabrielle Carteris, Shannen Doherty, Luke Perry and Brian Austin Green is slated to begin airing weekdays in early 2005.

"We are thrilled to be the new residence for 'Melrose Place' and 'Beverly Hills 90210'. SOAPnet continues to add popular soaps our viewers want to see and real estate doesn't get any better than this," said Ms. Blackwell. "'Melrose' and '90210' from executive producer Aaron Spelling, were two of the highest rated primetime soaps of the '90s and their addition to our lineup continues to establish our brand and provide our viewers with a 24-hour soapy environment."

"Melrose Place" originally premiered in July 1992 and showcased the lives of a group of residents in an apartment complex in Los Angeles. Viewers were witness to all the scheming and scandals amongst this group of not-so-nice neighbors. These young singles also knew how to heat up the screen with their many romances.

"Beverly Hills 90210," which premiered in October 1990, features the lives and loves of a group of friends in Beverly Hills. The show touches base on a variety of growing pains including drug addictions, bitter break-ups, and divorce. This long-running series traces the lives of these close high school friends through college and into their adulthood.

SOAPnet, the new way to watch soaps, offers same day episodes of popular daytime dramas including "All My Children," "Days of our Lives," "One Life To Live" and "General Hospital" at night for convenient viewing. In addition, the network provides inside access to stars and storylines with original programs, including the Emmy-nominated one-hour talk show, "Soap Talk" and the entertainment magazine show "Soap Center." Wrapped in a 24-hour environment, SOAPnet also offers primetime classics including "Dynasty," "Dallas" and "Knots Landing," as well as former daytime series "Port Charles," "Ryan's Hope" and "Another World."

ToolBelt Diva: Norma Vally is not like other divas. For starters, she wears a toolbelt.

Yes, she is multi-faceted and confident, but Vally, the host of Discovery Home Channel’s new primetime series, TOOLBELT DIVA, is anything but temperamental. In fact, she is happy to share home improvement tips so do-it-yourselfers can have fun and take charge of their domains.

When TOOLBELT DIVA premieres on Discovery Home Channel on Friday, August 6, 2004 at 9 p.m.(ET/PT), Vally—a professional renovator—will help women (okay, and men, too) gain confidence with power tools and learn how to finish those challenging jobs around the house.

Vally, who holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and Psychology, picked up her skills initially by working with her dad repairing leaky faucets, maintaining boilers and changing the oil in the family car. Later, with her cousin, a professional contractor in New York, Vally renovated houses and apartments, many of them suffering from serious old age. The challenges she encountered when working on wiring, demolition and sheetrocking in these old structures honed her ability to trouble shoot on the spot. Enter Norma as the TOOLBELT DIVA.

In each half-hour episode of this dynamic new series on Discovery Home Channel, Vally and a female homeowner will work together to tackle a variety of home improvement projects. From modernizing closets to revamping recreation rooms, Vally rolls up her shirtsleeves and gets her hands dirty helping these women finish their tough home improvement projects. Other projects include: building an outdoor fire pit, constructing a fenced play area for a family’s dog, and building a custom desk and shelves for a home office space.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, N.Y., Vally decided home improvement was her true calling after living in a house that’s almost a century old. “It’s a beauty but very demanding,” Vally said. “I’d take on small projects here and there. There was nobody in the house who knew how to fix things, so I figured why shouldn’t I do it?”

Vally previously was the construction expert on Discovery Channel’s daytime series, RALLY ROUND THE HOUSE, and is currently writing a book entitled, Chix Can Fix, a new “how-to” book that shows the funny side of home renovation and celebrates women’s endless capacity to fix things.

TOOLBELT DIVA is produced for Discovery Home Channel by Screaming Flea Productions. Liza Keckler is the producer. For Discovery Home Channel, Sue Norton is the executive producer.

Discovery Networks, U.S., a unit of Discovery Communications, Inc., operates and manages the Discovery Channel, TLC, Animal Planet, the Travel Channel, Discovery Health Channel, Discovery HD Theater, Discovery Kids Channel, Discovery Times Channel, The Science Channel, Discovery Wings Channel, Discovery Home Channel, Discovery en Español and FitTV. The unit also distributes BBC AMERICA.


Real Sports: A new episode of HBO’s “Real Sports” airs Tuesday, July 20, 2004:

REAL SPORTS examines the ongoing investigation into the Bay Area Laboratory Co-Operative (BALCO), exploring what is potentially the biggest doping scandal in U.S. sports history. The BALCO Lab in Burlingame, Cal., was raided last September by the criminal division of the IRS and the San Mateo County Narcotics Task Force, amidst allegations that BALCO founder Victor Conte and his company were involved in the distribution of THG, a previously undetectable designer steroid. The subsequent investigation focused on several high-profile players from Major League Baseball and the NFL who were BALCO clients, and has most recently been shaking up the world of USA Track & Field, where several top athletes are under suspicion. In this report, Bernard Goldberg takes a closer look at Victor Conte, the man at the center of the storm.
Correspondent: Bernard Goldberg. Producer: Joe Perskie.
The Beast. Standing 6’4” and weighing 374 pounds, Bob “The Beast” Sapp is the biggest American import in Japan. The 30-year-old American is the most celebrated fighter in K-1, a martial arts league that combines karate, kickboxing and tae kwon do. Yet his road to stardom was anything but smooth. Following a decent football career at the University of Washington, he was drafted by Chicago in the third round of the 1997 NFL draft, only to be cut soon after. Sapp then had a disappointing tenure with the Minnesota Vikings, Baltimore Ravens and Oakland Raiders, and by 2000 was out of football. Entering the world of K-1 in 2002, he found himself an instant attraction by virtue of his size, athleticism and unbridled ferocity. Today, “The Beast” has become a physical and cultural phenomenon.
Correspondent: Bryant Gumbel. Producer: Ezra Edelman.
Peter Westbrook. This summer the U.S. will send forth its best team of fencers in years to compete at the Athens Olympics. If the best of the bunch, 25-year-old Keeth Smart, brings home a medal, he will be the first American to do so since his teacher, Peter Westbrook, won bronze in 1984.
Both Smart and Westbrook are African-American, excelling in a sport that has long been associated with white, upper-class Europeans. In fact, four of the 12 fencers on the U.S. Olympic team are black, and they are all students of Westbrook, who for years has been developing world-class talent from the roughest, most deprived neighborhoods of New York City. James Brown, in collaboration with Sports Illustrated, visits the Peter Westbrook Foundation to profile an extraordinary coach and mentor, who is opening up a brand new world to at-risk youths.
Correspondent: James Brown. Producer: Beein Gim.
Miracle League. REAL SPORTS revisits one of its most popular and inspiring segments, a look at the Miracle League, which allows disabled youths to play on specially built baseball diamonds. Originally seen in July 2001, the report sparked national interest in the concept and led to the development of similar leagues around the country. The idea started in 1998 in Conyers, Ga., when Gary Garner, a 43-year-old electrical contractor, wanted to make it possible for his daughter, who suffers from muscular dystrophy, to play ball. At the time of HBO’s first visit, approximately 120 players from around Atlanta were suiting up. Today, the Miracle League is a national organization, with more than 70 leagues and 10,000 disabled participants. Correspondent Frank Deford takes a look back at the genesis of this amazing league and visits one of the newest fields, in Moody, Ala.
Correspondent: Frank Deford. Producers: Michael Sullivan.
In April, REAL SPORTS was awarded two more Sports Emmys® -- the Outstanding Sports Journalism Award for Bryant Gumbel’s report on the imprisonment of high school football star Marcus Dixon, and the Outstanding Long Feature Award for Gumbel’s profile of racecar driver Alex Zanardi. To date, REAL SPORTS has won a total of 13 Sports Emmys®.

The executive producers of REAL SPORTS WITH BRYANT GUMBEL are Ross Greenburg and Rick Bernstein; Kirby Bradley is senior producer.

Mini Dress Tops: Empire waist blouse/dresses that skim the top of the hip and worn over jeans are popular with celebs these days. Gwyneth Paltrow, Eva Amurri and Garcelle Beauvais were out at events last night sporting the look.

Sally Beauty Supports Breast Cancer Research: Sally Beauty is launching two new products to help champion the fight against Breast Cancer. Last year they presented Hope Lipgloss, a shimmery pink shade. This year, they’re releasing Sally Girl Faith, a clear roll-on strawberry flavored lipgloss and Sally Girl Faith Nail Color in a shimmery pink shade. Both will be in Sally Beauty Supply Stores nationwide starting in September. The lipgloss retails for $4.99 and the Nail Color for .99. Ten percent from each sale will benefit the City of Hope and its breast cancer research programs. See www.cityofhope.org and www.sallybeauty.com

Roxy Surf Camp: Date Location
July 9 Santa Monica, CA
July 12 Ventura, CA
July 14 Pismo Beach, CA
July 15 Santa Cruz, CA
Aug 30-Sept 3 Newport Beach, CA



Summer’s here and what better way to spend it than in the water? RSVP today for your special lesson at the Roxy surf camp nearest you!

Each Roxy surf camp will include learning the basics of surfing, ocean safety, lunch, and a Roxy goodie bag. Wetsuits and surfboards will be provided.

For more information and to RSVP, contact Brianne Sheldon at 310.664.0600 x14 or brianne@mmlpr.com.

Music Showcase: RES invites you to our monthly series showcasing brand new music videos, short films and motion graphics.

This month, Geoff McFetridge shares a retrospective of his video work including his music videos for the Avalanches, Simian, Plaid and his quirky spots for Jinro, X-Games, Burton and HP.

New short films from Suk & Koch, Brett Simon and Cheryl Dunn who will present the world premiere of Come Mute.

Also screening: breaking new music videos for Placebo, Mr. Lif, Armand Van Helden, Supergrass, Los Amigos Invisibles, Colder and Floria Sigismondi¹s latest for the Cure, among others.

After the screening there’s a roof-top after-party at HKM featuring special guest DJs plus complimentary drinks courtesy Red Stripe and Izze.

See breaking new work on the big screen, hear from special guests in attendance and have a drink following the screening.

Tuesday July 13th, 8:00 p.m.
Egyptian Theatre
6712 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood
$10

Validated parking at Prestige Parking on Las Palmas north of Hollywood Blvd.
BUY TICKETS NOW:
http://www.ticketweb.com/user/?region=socal&query=detail&event=523684&interface=resfestla
INFO AND PROGRAM LIST:
http://www.res.com/events
Info: 310-826-1298 | events@res.com

Travis Tritt Doin’s: Travis Tritt Goes Wild On Simple Life 2 And Evil In 2001 Maniacs

Singer-songwriter Travis Tritt is hitting the screens on television and in film.

On the small screen, Tritt’s latest hit single, “The Girl’s Gone Wild,” caught the attention of the ultimate wild girls, Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie. On their FOX reality show “Simple Life 2,” the two girls head cross-country in a pink pick up that tows an Airstream trailer. This week’s episode finds the girls in Louisiana and features Tritt’s song to help narrate Paris and Nicole providing their expert guidance to a 13-year-old girl who is looking for her first date. Epsiode 5 premiered on Wednesday, July 7th and an encore will be broadcast on Sunday, July 11th at 9/8c. Check local listings for channels and addition airings.

On the big screen, Tritt returns to acting with a role in the new Tim Sullivan (Detroit Rock City) film, “2001 Maniacs,” a horror film about travelers who end up as the main course in a strange little town.

“I play a pretty evil gas station attendant that goes around warning all these teenagers about the impending doom they’re about to get into,” Travis explains. “It was a lot of fun and they filmed in South Georgia.”

A re-make of the infamous 1964 B-movie “Two Thousand Maniacs!” written and directed by the godfather of gore, Herschell Gordon Lewis, the new version is scheduled for release next year.

Tritt’s ninth and most recent release, “My Honky Tonk History,” is set for release on August 17th. It features a song co-written by Sony label mate Gretchen Wilson and a duet with John Mellencamp. The first single, “The Girl’s Gone Wild,” is currently climbing up the charts.

Elf-in!: There’s a new beauty line called ELF ( Eyes. Lips. Face. ) at www.eyeslipsface.com. “Sleepover” star Sara Paxton gave all of her friends ELF Cosmetics at her recent birthday party. She had ELF before you could even buy it. Jamie Lynn Discala picked up a bunch of ELF Cosmetics at the Felissimo / ELLE Magazine gifting suite during the Up-Fronts in New York. But here’s the cool thing: each piece is only $1!!

The creator, Scott Vincent Borba created the Hard Candy Cosmetic line and launched them in Sephora, was a top Marketing Director at premiere companies such as Neutrogena/Johnson & Johnson and Shiseido/Joico, and has now created ELF. Here’s a list of celebs who have ELF:

Rachel Bilson

Samaire Armstrong

Maggie Gyllenhall

Sara Paxton

Lindsay Lohan

Jamie Lynn Discala + AJ Discala

Mario Cantone (Sex and The City)

Dominic Monaghan (Lord of the Rings)

Kwame Jackson (The Apprentice)

Peter Reckell (Days of Our Lives)

Julie Ann Emery (currently filming The First Last Kiss with Will Smith)

Bethany Joy Lenz (One Tree Hill)

Sophia Bush (One Tree Hill)

Will Estes (American Dreams)

Eva Longoria

Allison Sweeney (Days of Our Lives)

Camille Winbush (Bernie Mac Show)

Adrienne Frantz

Milo Ventimiglia

Alexa Havins

Billy Burke + Jeff Hephner (starring in new show, The Jury)


Here’s the company’s fyi: e.l.f. is a revolutionary new beauty company that goes beyond traditional makeup to provide real improvements to the health and beauty of your skin. Utilizing problem solution technology, e.l.f. has been able to provide a line of cosmetics that moisturize, hydrate, and enliven your complexion. e.l.f. believes in brining out the natural and vibrant qualities in everyone. Their cosmetics are based on a fresh, modern, and infallible approach to beauty. Check out their website www.eyeslipsface.com to learn about their Moisture-Care Lip Color, aromatherapy infused Soothing Lip Gloss, and SPF Hydro-Tint Concealer.

Tres Jolie!: Trunk Show At Tres Jolie Hosted By: Glenda Lugay on Thursday July 8, 2004 from from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. tres jolie 181 S. Beverly Dr. Beverly Hills, 90212 Info? Call 310.860.1110

No Boo Hoo, Just Moo Roo: “Charleston charm in mid-town madness” MOO ROO opens its New York Showroom on 12 West 57th Street! On Monday August 2 and Tuesday August 3, 2004 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The MOO ROO showroom will open the doors for the first time for a two day party.

Be sure to reserve time to visit MOO ROO and enjoy the yummy southern treats and tasty beverages and cocktails that will be served throughout the day. Exclusive gifts will also be given at the party. Don’t miss this opportunity to see MOO ROO’s showroom and see the company that’s been nominated for the 2004 ACE “Rising Star Award!” For questions about this event, please contact Alex Munzel at 843.534.2233
or via email at alex@mooroo.com.

Speed Onto Goldspeed: Our favorite on-line jeweler, www.goldspeed.com is having a big sterling silver extravaganza.


Who’s Wearing What: Actress, Judy Reyes of Scrubs, wears Erica Courtney Platinum and .64ct. Diamond Fleur de Lis Earrings on Large Platinum Huggies to the closing ceremonies of the Monte Carlo Television Festival on July 3, 2004..

Carry On, Kerry: Celebs were out in their casual chic to support presidential candidate John Kerry and his running mate (our personal fave), John Edwards. Included at the event held at The Music Box Henry Fonda Theater last night were Eliza Dushku, Meredith Salenger, Marisa Coughlan, Joy Bryant, Liz Phair, Jessica Biel, Lisa Loeb, Sally Kirkland and Krista Allen.

Spotted Shopping: Actress Lauren Tom (who turns a surprising 43 next month) was at Loehmann’s on La Cienega in West Hollywood today (July 7, 2004) with a pile of clothes in her arms. Although she’s lately been working as a voice actress (“Mulan 2,” “Teacher’s Pet”), she’s a regular on “The Division,” and may best be known as Lena St. Clair in “The Joy Luck Club.” Still TV audiences probably remember her as Ross’ ill-fated girlfriend “Julie,” on “Friends.”

Outback Jack’d Up: Jack Goes Missing and the Girls Must Find Him in TBS's Wild
“Outback Jack” Episode 6 Tuesday, July 27, 2004 9 p.m. (ET/PT)

The leading man is missing and it's up to the women to find him in Episode 6 of TBS's series “Outback Jack,” in which a group of pampered city women to the test as they vie for the affections of their rugged leading man. The series is hosted by JD Roberto (Shop Til You Drop, Shark Chasers).

In Episode 6, the four remaining women awake one morning to find that their leading man, Jack (athlete-outdoorsman Vadim Dale), has gone missing, and its up to them to find him. Host JD separates the women into two teams for the search, and at first, it seems all is going well for both teams. But a crucial mistake costs one team the race, leaving the other team to find Jack and win a helicopter ride to a romantic dinner.

Just before boarding the helicopter, however, host JD tells Jack that he can only take one woman, while the other will join her cohorts at a local pub. With Jack and his date off enjoying a romantic moment, the other women get the chance to discuss their feelings about Jack's date.

At the end of the episode, it's elimination time again, as the group of women goes from four to three, with only two episodes left before Jack's final decision.

Motorcycle Jumpin’: Robbie Knievel to Give TNT Viewers a Front-Row Seat in Live Motorcycle Jump from New York's USS Intrepid* Celebrating Premiere of TNT Original Movie EVEL KNIEVEL LIVE Telecast of Daredevil Jump Saturday, July 31, at 8 p.m. (ET/PT) Turner Network Television (TNT) is set to celebrate the premiere weekend of its latest TNT Original, EVEL KNIEVEL, with a live one-hour television event in which "Kaptain" Robbie Knievel, son of the legendary motorcyclist, will attempt a spectacular jump in the Knievel tradition on the deck of the USS Intrepid*, it was announced today by Ken Schwab, senior vice president of programming for TNT and TBS. Live From New York, Robbie Knievel Jumps the USS Intrepid*, will air live on TNT Saturday, July 31, at 8 p.m. (ET/PT), the second night of TNT's premiere three-play weekend of EVEL KNIEVEL, starring George Eads, Jaime Pressly and Beau Bridges. Knievel will attempt the world's first jump over an array of military aircraft on the deck of the USS Intrepid*, a former aircraft carrier docked in New York Harbor, which is currently the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum.

Serving as master of ceremonies for this unique event will be TNT's Emmy award-winning host Ernie Johnson Jr., who will also call "Kaptain" Knievel's aerial leap. Craig Sager and Dave Burns will provide live reports throughout the telecast, with TNT/NBC NASCAR analyst Wally Dallenbach adding his insights. Sandy Grossman, an eight-time Emmy winner, will direct the jump, his fifth Robbie Knievel production. TNT's Albert Vertino will produce.

"Kaptain" Robbie Knievel has followed in his legendary father's footsteps by becoming a motorcycle daredevil in his own right. Knievel's most famous jump to date took place in 1999, when he successfully jumped over a 200-foot-wide, 2,500-foot-deep chasm in the Grand Canyon. Also that year, he successfully jumped from one building to another in Las Vegas, an event seen by over 13 million viewers nationally on FOX. And in February of 2000, he soared over a moving train coming head-on in a daring jump in San Antonio, Texas.

The TNT Original EVEL KNIEVEL premieres on TNT during a special three-play weekend: Friday, July 30, at 8 p.m. (ET/PT); Saturday, July 31, at 9 p.m. (ET/PT), immediately following the live telecast of Robbie Knievel's daring jump; and Sunday, Aug. 1, at 8 p.m. (ET/PT).

As one of the world's largest maritime museums, the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is housed aboard the 900-foot-long ESSEX class aircraft carrier Intrepid, which saw service during World War II, the Cold War, and the Vietnam War. It also served as a prime recovery vessel for NASA during the Mercury and Gemini space programs before it was retired in 1974. Four years later, Zachary Fisher established the Intrepid Museum Foundation for the sole purpose of "saving the Intrepid for generations to come." Listed in the National Park Service's National Historic Landmark register, the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum was opened as a symbol of peace and education in August 1982. Pier 86, which also houses the guided-missile submarine USS Growler and the British Airways Concorde, has also served as the annual site of New York's Fleet Week since 1988. For more information, visit www.intrepidmuseum.org

Slate is a FANTASTIC site. Today this was posted. We loved it so much, we had to put it up here, too, so even more people can read it. (I was especially thrilled since Edwards was always my preferred candidate.)

ballot box
The Big Decision
The wisdom of picking Edwards.
By William SaletanPosted Tuesday, July 6, 2004, at 9:29 AM PT



Think about this for a minute: He left college, and he volunteered three different ways. First he volunteered for military service. Then he volunteered to serve in Vietnam. And then he volunteered for some of the most dangerous, hazardous duty you could possibly have in Vietnam. As a result, he was wounded multiple times. He won a whole series of medals while he was there. And now—this is an amazing thing—a vice president of the United States who avoided service four, five, six times—I've lost count—[and] a president of the United States who can't account for a year of his national guard service are attacking John Kerry for the medals he won in Vietnam? You have got to be kidding me.
That's John Edwards talking about John Kerry at a Florida Democratic Party fund-raiser three weeks ago. This is why Kerry had to pick Edwards: Kerry sounds so much more attractive when Edwards is doing the talking.

Five months ago, after watching Kerry strut his stuff in New Hampshire—such as it was—I warned that Democrats were on the verge of nominating a guy who had plenty of selling points but couldn't make the sale himself. How was this mediocre campaigner attracting voters? The answer, it turned out, was that he wasn't attracting them. It was Kerry's sales force—Ted Kennedy, former Georgia Sen. Max Cleland, Iowa's first lady Christie Vilsack, and others—that was doing this job so well. The problem with this arrangement, I thought, was that the candidate would eventually have to stand and fight alone. "If you nominate Kerry, you don't get the sales force," I wrote. "You just get him."

Who was the better candidate? Edwards. That's how I saw it, and plenty of exit polls backed me up. Liberals were voting for Kerry because they thought he was electable. But the people whose ballots would actually determine which candidate got elected—independents, conservative Democrats, and self-identified Republicans sufficiently open-minded to participate in Democratic primaries—were voting for Edwards.

My wife saw it differently. She looked at Kerry and saw a guy loaded with national security credentials. She looked at Edwards and saw a baby-faced lawyer with little governing experience who seemed unprepared for the presidency in a time of war. Kerry saw the same thing. "In the Senate four years, and that is the full extent of public life—no international experience, no military experience," Kerry said of Edwards. Lots of voters also recognized a difference. According to exit polls, people who looked for the candidate with the "right experience" for the presidency voted overwhelmingly for Kerry.

So this was the dilemma: Edwards was the best salesman, but Kerry was the best product. If you had to choose one or the other, I thought it was more important to pick the salesman, since the consequences of losing the election were far more serious than the consequences of electing the less qualified Democrat. The logic made sense, but the premise was mistaken. Democrats didn't have to choose. They could get the best product along with the best salesman, if Kerry had the wisdom to pick Edwards.

By wisdom, I don't mean short-term calculation or even long-term prudence. While Edwards offered the most obvious electoral boost, Kerry's associates made clear that the nominee was looking beyond the election for the running mate who would be most ready to step in as president. That train of thought led to Dick Gephardt, not to Edwards. Personal chemistry pointed in the same direction: By all accounts, Kerry feels far more comfortable with Gephardt than with Edwards. I think Kerry is uneasy around Edwards because Edwards reminds him of the young Kerry, and the old Kerry knows that the young Kerry was a showboating upstart. Gephardt was the guy Kerry wanted.

That's where wisdom had to intervene. Kerry had to recognize that the decision wasn't strictly his to make. Look again at those exit polls. Most Democrats who voted for Kerry weren't in love with him. They saw him as a vehicle to get rid of Bush. Some initially preferred the candidate who vowed to stand up to Bush, or the candidate who preached optimism, or the candidate who accused Republicans of a war against working people, or the candidate who promised to take back our government from the special interests. Kerry absorbed all the votes by absorbing all the messages. He became the optimistic guy who would stand up against Bush's war on work and fight the special interests. More clearly than any Democratic presidential nominee in 20 years, Kerry was chosen not to represent himself but to represent his party. And what Democrats wanted, as polls and crowds made clear, was Edwards—because they like him, and because they want to win.

That's the most important thing Kerry revealed today: He understands that the election is about more than what he wants. Sometimes the biggest thing you can do is to accept what's bigger than you.

William Saletan is Slate's chief political correspondent and author of Bearing Right: How Conservatives Won the Abortion War.

Article URL: http://slate.msn.com/id/2103432/ if (window.print) { window.print() } else alert('To print his page press Ctrl-P on your keyboard \nor choose print from your browser or device after clicking OK');

Slate is a FANTASTIC site. Today this was posted. We loved it so much, we had to put it up here, too, so even more people can read it. (I was especially thrilled since Edwards was always my preferred candidate.)

ballot box
The Big Decision
The wisdom of picking Edwards.
By William SaletanPosted Tuesday, July 6, 2004, at 9:29 AM PT



Think about this for a minute: He left college, and he volunteered three different ways. First he volunteered for military service. Then he volunteered to serve in Vietnam. And then he volunteered for some of the most dangerous, hazardous duty you could possibly have in Vietnam. As a result, he was wounded multiple times. He won a whole series of medals while he was there. And now—this is an amazing thing—a vice president of the United States who avoided service four, five, six times—I've lost count—[and] a president of the United States who can't account for a year of his national guard service are attacking John Kerry for the medals he won in Vietnam? You have got to be kidding me.

That's John Edwards talking about John Kerry at a Florida Democratic Party fund-raiser three weeks ago. This is why Kerry had to pick Edwards: Kerry sounds so much more attractive when Edwards is doing the talking.

Five months ago, after watching Kerry strut his stuff in New Hampshire—such as it was—I warned that Democrats were on the verge of nominating a guy who had plenty of selling points but couldn't make the sale himself. How was this mediocre campaigner attracting voters? The answer, it turned out, was that he wasn't attracting them. It was Kerry's sales force—Ted Kennedy, former Georgia Sen. Max Cleland, Iowa's first lady Christie Vilsack, and others—that was doing this job so well. The problem with this arrangement, I thought, was that the candidate would eventually have to stand and fight alone. "If you nominate Kerry, you don't get the sales force," I wrote. "You just get him."

Who was the better candidate? Edwards. That's how I saw it, and plenty of exit polls backed me up. Liberals were voting for Kerry because they thought he was electable. But the people whose ballots would actually determine which candidate got elected—independents, conservative Democrats, and self-identified Republicans sufficiently open-minded to participate in Democratic primaries—were voting for Edwards.

My wife saw it differently. She looked at Kerry and saw a guy loaded with national security credentials. She looked at Edwards and saw a baby-faced lawyer with little governing experience who seemed unprepared for the presidency in a time of war. Kerry saw the same thing. "In the Senate four years, and that is the full extent of public life—no international experience, no military experience," Kerry said of Edwards. Lots of voters also recognized a difference. According to exit polls, people who looked for the candidate with the "right experience" for the presidency voted overwhelmingly for Kerry.

So this was the dilemma: Edwards was the best salesman, but Kerry was the best product. If you had to choose one or the other, I thought it was more important to pick the salesman, since the consequences of losing the election were far more serious than the consequences of electing the less qualified Democrat. The logic made sense, but the premise was mistaken. Democrats didn't have to choose. They could get the best product along with the best salesman, if Kerry had the wisdom to pick Edwards.

By wisdom, I don't mean short-term calculation or even long-term prudence. While Edwards offered the most obvious electoral boost, Kerry's associates made clear that the nominee was looking beyond the election for the running mate who would be most ready to step in as president. That train of thought led to Dick Gephardt, not to Edwards. Personal chemistry pointed in the same direction: By all accounts, Kerry feels far more comfortable with Gephardt than with Edwards. I think Kerry is uneasy around Edwards because Edwards reminds him of the young Kerry, and the old Kerry knows that the young Kerry was a showboating upstart. Gephardt was the guy Kerry wanted.

That's where wisdom had to intervene. Kerry had to recognize that the decision wasn't strictly his to make. Look again at those exit polls. Most Democrats who voted for Kerry weren't in love with him. They saw him as a vehicle to get rid of Bush. Some initially preferred the candidate who vowed to stand up to Bush, or the candidate who preached optimism, or the candidate who accused Republicans of a war against working people, or the candidate who promised to take back our government from the special interests. Kerry absorbed all the votes by absorbing all the messages. He became the optimistic guy who would stand up against Bush's war on work and fight the special interests. More clearly than any Democratic presidential nominee in 20 years, Kerry was chosen not to represent himself but to represent his party. And what Democrats wanted, as polls and crowds made clear, was Edwards—because they like him, and because they want to win.

That's the most important thing Kerry revealed today: He understands that the election is about more than what he wants. Sometimes the biggest thing you can do is to accept what's bigger than you.

William Saletan is Slate's chief political correspondent and author of Bearing Right: How Conservatives Won the Abortion War.

Article URL: http://slate.msn.com/id/2103432/ if (window.print) { window.print() } else alert('To print his page press Ctrl-P on your keyboard \nor choose print from your browser or device after clicking OK');

My, My Manolos: Not really. We wouldn’t be able to walk in the shoes made super famous by Sarah Jessica Parker’s “Sex & the City” character, Carrie Bradshaw. But for those of you who love them, the new fall season Manolo Blahniks have arrived at the exclusive department stores that sell ‘em. There’s a 40-inspired open-toed pump in a leopard print, pointy-toed spectator mules, a gravity defying “Caged Back” sandal that takes the Romanesque to the absurd (and comes in fushia, no less). Ruched pumps are also popular in their daytime lineup. Evening wear offers up both white and black satin, in classic pumps and slingbacks, with the trademark Manolo heels. If you can afford the $1K plus to $2800 (for the classic closed-toe pump) range, the exotics collection presents several colors of Alligator pumps, slides and sling backs (they call ‘em “halters.”

Spade Sighting: Looking scruffy, but oh-so-very movie star-ish (dark shades on a decidedly overcast day), David Spade ate breakfast alone at Beverly Hills’ The Nosh at about 9 a.m. on Monday, July 5, 2004. He made sure to sit in a rear booth, his back to the restaurant, but right in sight of anyone who wanted to use the restaurant’s facilities.

2004 Wimbledon Champion If I was Anna Kornikova, I’d be worried. Wimbeldon winner Maria Sharapova has her leggy blonde good looks as well as the actual chops to win Wimbeldon. She showed up at the Champion dinner in a champagne silk mini frock with a sheer silk chiffon skirt (very sexy), and carried a turquoise bag that screamed she already knows about fashion. Her spiky heeled sandals confirmed her supermodel good look legs, too.

Got Soul?: Yummy Soul Candy (Candles, Bath & Body Products and gift baskets) is super popular with celebs. We met them at the Silverspoon Beauty Buffet and have mentioned them in a previous newsletter. Check out the photos at http://soulcandy.com/pr/silverspoon.html. Their following now includes Tori Spelling, Jason Priestly, Naomi Lowde, Tom Green, Andy Dick, Missie Pyle, Jeremy Piven, Greg Grunberg, Melissa Joan Hart, Hailey Duff, Nicole Eggert, Sofia Vergara, Laura Harring, Deidre Hall, Neve Campbell, and Kylie Bax. They even supplied Madonna our soy candles for her dressing rooms during her recent tour. And we can tell you from experience the candles are fantastic: they're 100% vegetable wax, a blend of soy and palm that is clean-burning, long lasting and scented with high grade essential oils and natural fragrances.

Bob and the BoDeans : Singer/songwriter Bob Schneider is hitting the road solo (just he and his guitar) with The BoDeans. He'll be stripping down the arrangements and presenting his songs in their raw form, including his current single “Come With Me Tonight." Starting out in Utah’s Park City, Bob sans band will be traveling across the country with stops at San Diego's Belly Up, NYC’s Bowery Ballroom, and a one-off full band show at Minneapolis’ Rib America with Big Head Todd (tour dates attached). He's hitting LA's HOUSE OF BLUES on July 25, 2004.

“Come With Me Tonight” has moved up to #16 with a bullet on R&R’s Indicator chart and to #12 on its Top 30 chart. At FMQB, it’s perched firmly at #18 with a bullet on its Top 50 chart. His animated video is by acclaimed web/visual designers WEFAIL.

He's a fixture on the Austin scene, having fronted four of the city’s most popular bands – Lonelyland, the Scabs, the Ugly Americans and Joe Rockhead. His debut solo release, Lonelyland (2001), was the best-selling single artist album in the history of Austin’s Waterloo Records, the city’s premier music store (over Britney and *N Sync).


Born in Ypsilanti, Michigan, and raised in Munich, Germany, Schneider is the son of a professional German opera singer and has been performing since he was a toddler. He first gained professional experience backing his father on drums at numerous moonlighting gigs throughout Germany and as a lead singer under the name Bobby Blues and the Basstones at a University of Maryland at Munich. He moved to El Paso, Texas, to study art, but soon discovered his true passion was music and moved to Austin to pursue his dream.


Pairing Up The Watson Circle has partnered with partnered with Sarah Yellin and Rich Carmichael of Silverlake's furniture outlet, From The Hip. Saturdays and Sundays only, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., to their original Silverlake shop in back of the historic Neutra Office Building at 2379 Glendale Boulevard (323 665-5336). They accept credit cards for purchases $50 and over. There’s a clearance sale at 65% or more below retail. Designer lines include:
TRINA TURK-SPORTSWEAR, ISAAC MIZRAHI-EYEWEAR, MON PETIT OISEAU-SPORTSWEAR, MONICA WEBBER-HANDBAGS, JESSICA ELLIOT-JEWELRY, EDWARD AN-SPORTSWEAR, FRANCIE-HANDBAGS, CHARLIE ROCKET-KIDS CLOTHES, KHANA SHIRO- SPORTSWEAR AND HANDBAGS, URBAN NATURAL BODY-BATH AND BODY PRODUCTS, REJEANA RENEE-JEWELRY, FARRAH DRAGON-CASHMERE, REBE-SPORTSWEAR, HILARY BEANE-JEWELRY, LOCKETS-SPORTSWEAR, KATA-EYEWEAR, ASH FRANCOMB-SPORTSWEAR, WOO-SHOES, M HOPE-SPORTSWEAR, U–HANDBAGS, ALICIA LAWHON-SPORTSWEAR, DIANE GAIL-HANDBAGS, AND GREY ANT-SPORTSWEAR

You Animal: Discovery Channel will be offering up "Animal Games" on Monday, August 2, 2004 from 9 to 10 p.m. The show pits animal athletes head-to-head in a virtual stadium, in classic track and field events. Teams of Mammals, Birds, Fish, Herpitiles and Insects will vie for gold, in events such as the 100-Meter Dash, 100-Meter Swim, High Jump, Long Jump, Weight-lifting and Shooting.

To level the playing field, each competitor will be virtually transformed to roughly the size of a human athlete -- up 46 times for an American Cockroach, down about half for a Mako Shark -- and their abilities will change accordingly with each event.

Produced using the same format as other live sporting events, ANIMAL GAMES will profile individual animals and their abilities, along with game-day style commentary from inside a studio. On-screen graphics and instant replays allow viewers to get an abundance of information on each animal.

Spidey Sense: “Spider-Man 2” Where most – even many – superhero films focus so intently on gadgetry and special effects, to the detriment of plot and character development, “Spider-Man 2” offers up exciting action and suspense sequences, while always touching on emotional points. It’s a very successful, enjoyable film.

The majority of superheroes are revenge-driven (think of the recent “Daredevil,” “The Punisher,” “Blade,” “Crow,” even “Batman”). The makers of “Spider-Man” were offered up the unique challenge of presenting a character whose motives are purely altruistic. Parker is bit by a special spider, he gets unique characteristics that allow him to save the good, help capture the bad. Despite its continual infringement on his life, he cannot stop helping people. He’s the epitome of a truly self-less person. Even his last scene in the original “Spider-Man” shows a young man – whose peers are so often driven by passionate emotions – who forgoes a relationship with the love of his life because of his “calling.”

Unlike “Batman,” “Spider-Man” and his “human persona,” Peter Parker live on the edge. Parker lives in a tenement, shares a bathroom and contemplates in his depressing one-room flat. Compare that to the high-tech basement and upper level mansion of Bruce Wayne/ “Batman.”

Director Sam Raimi (whose brother Ted offers up comic relief at the “Daily Bugle,” where Parker sells his photographs) seems to never forget anything in this film – he’s not solely caught up in Spider-Man swinging through Manhattan.

This superhero (played by the wonderful Tobey Maguire with a combination of sexiness and sweetness) is suffering, yet it’s not played in the typically annoying angst-driven “madness” manner. Instead, Parker/Spider-Man’s issues are genuine and the audience grows truly empathetic. When Parker cannot keep up with his university studies or maintain a job or have normal relationships, his “Spider” qualities and intuition are affected. Throughout the film’s storyline, Parker is preoccupied with Mary Jane (Kirsten Dunst) or “MJ” as he calls her. He strongly believes pursuing a relationship with her will endanger her and yet he remains in love with her as she is with him. Mary Jane, for her part, doesn’t understand what going on and is determined to get on with her life.

What ensues, as Parker juggles between his feelings and doing what he believes is right, is the birth of the villain Dr. Octopus (Alfred Molina), courtesy of funding from Oz Corp, now run by Parker’s childhood friend Harry (James Franco). Harry is still obsessing about Spider-Man, who he believes killed his father and is resentful of Parker’s “support” of the masked superhero.

The combination of these elements makes for an engaging two-and-a-half hours.

Equilibrium: Although little seen in its initial brief release in the theaters, “Equilibrium,” starring the talented Christian Bale, is currently making the rounds on cable television.

Whatever the administrative reasons for this film’s suppression – it was actually made a couple of years before it was finally released (from the IMDB: The film was not given a wide release because it had already run into profit as a result of overseas sales, and Miramax didn't want to risk turning a money maker into a loss.) – it’s certainly a worthwhile film. Like “Matrix,” which it will be invariably compared to, the film is set in an unstable future. Here, emotions are outlawed and the penalty is death. Citizens are required by law to inject a Prozac-like substance, here called Prozium, into their necks on a regular basis throughout the day.

Bale plays John Preston, a Cleric (a highly trained police-like official who seeks out offenders). There’s a high body count in this German-shot film, which also benefits from great production values. The sets are eerie and the costumes credible. When Preston accidentally drops and breaks his “dose,” he experiences feeling and his entire perspective is altered.

Sean Bean has a cameo as Partridge, an unlucky friend of Preston’s. Bale’s “Metroland” co-star Emily Watson plays a condemned woman, once Partridge’s lover and now the object of Bale’s newly found passion.

The acting is top-rate, with the exception of Taye Diggs who seems out of his element. Also excellent are the fight sequences, which are fast-paced and often feature new and clever dynamics.