Hef Hosts Bogart Marathon

Bogie and Bacall, To Have or Have Not


Bogart Classics To Air on TCM

Playboy publisher Hugh Hefner is April’s guest programmer on TCM. Hefner has chosen an evening of movie entertainment focusing exclusively on Humphrey Bogart films from the 1940s and comments on the films from his Playboy Mansion in Holmby Hills, where Bogart once socialized. According to some genealogists, Hefner is a ninth cousin once removed of Bogart. The Bogart films air on April 7, 2005 on TCM (Turner Classic Movies).

Hefner’s appearance will come two days before his birthday (April 9, 1926). Hefner’s first Playboy Club, which operated in Chicago from 1960 to 1986, was said to have been inspired in part by Bogart's “Cafe Americain” in the movie Casablanca (1942, 8 p.m.). Hefner contributed funds for the restoration of the original release print of another Bogart classic, The Big Sleep (1946, 2 a.m.), co-starring Lauren Bacall. His other Bogart picks are The Maltese Falcon (1941, 12 a.m.), with the star in a legendary turn as private eye Sam Spade; To Have And Have Not (1944, 10 p.m.), Bogart’s first film with Bacall (the now legendary "whistle" line is in this one); and Dark Passage (1947, 4 a.m.), No. 3 in the Bogart/Bacall series of six movies. All times eastern. www.turnerclassicmovies.com.

HBO's "Warm Springs"

Roosevelt's Private Struggle With Polio

The HBO Films drama Warm Springs, starring Kenneth Branagh and Cynthia Nixon, tells the story of Franklin Delano Roosevelt's struggle with polio. Directed by Joseph Sargent from a script by Margaret Nagle, the film also stars Jane Alexander, Kathy Bates, Tim Blake Nelson and David Paymer. It debuts Saturday, April 30, 2005 at 8 p.m. The film follows Franklin Delano Roosevelt, left a paraplegic from polio at age 39, as he seeks out a miracle cure in the backwoods of rural Georgia. There he encounters the lives of those affected not just by disability, but by poverty, illiteracy and racism. In time he comes to learn that though he may never walk again, he can still lead. In Warm Springs, a future four-term American president finds his personal and political soul.

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Celeb Collectibles For Charity

A Good Cause Celeb: Now in its third year, Celebrity Rags 4 Charity Riches announced the dates for their next Celebrity Charity Auction to run April 17, 2005 thru April 24, 2005 at www.rags4riches.org

Items include personal clothing, jewelry and shoes from Cher, Academy Award nominee Kate Winslet (her custom-designed Stuart Weitzman shoes worn to this year’s Academy Awards), Academy Award winner Jamie Foxx, Tim Allen, Gena Davis (a dress worn on David Letterman show), The Dixie Chicks, Alison Krauss (the dress she wears on “Lonely Runs Both Ways,” her current CD cover --as seen above), Country legend Buck Owens (boots from the 60’s made by James Laitti), Naomi Judd, Tracy Lawerence and Joe Nichols, among others.

Celebrity Rags 4 Charity Riches takes fashion treasures from celebrity closets and offers them to the public. They provide a website destination, www.rags4riches.org, for fans to purchase items. The profits from each sale are directed to a charity designated by the celebrity. Celebrity Rags 4 Charity Riches is the vision of stylist Renee Layher, along with her partners Cynda West Johnson and Keith Hempel.

Regina King's Oscar shoes, custom-designed by Stuart Weitzman, and featuring a pair of Marilyn Monroe's favorite earrings, will also be auctioned off, albeit with a reproduction of the earrings. The shoes will be autographed by "Ray" star King.

Lil' JJ

Lil' JJ's Rise

Lil’ JJ will star opposite Dennis Quaid and Rene Russo in the Paramount/MGM/ Nickelodeon remake of the feature, “Yours, Mine and Ours.” Lil’ JJ will portray “Jimi,” one of the children in the blended family. Lil’ JJ will also be featured in the MGM film, “Beauty Shop,” starring opposite Queen Latifah, which opens in theaters March 30, 2005. He will make his debut on Nickelodeon during the upcoming new season of the long-running comedy series, “All That,” reprising the host role in the popular “Vital Information” sketch. Lil’ JJ was the grand prize winner of BET’s comedy competition series, “Coming to the Stage.”

Thomas L. Friedman

Pulitzer Prize ®Winning New York Times Columnist Thomas L. Friedman Reports On European Views Of America: Does Europe Hate Us? Thomas L. Friedman Reporting on Discovery


On Thursday, April 7, 2005, at 8 p.m. (ET/PT), Discovery Channel airs Does Europe Hate Us? Thomas L. Friedman Reporting, a one-hour special offering a look at the strained relations between America and one of its closest allies, Europe. Friedman’s previous Discovery Channel television specials focused on global job migration in The Other Side Of Outsourcing, the ramifications of the West Bank Wall in Straddling The Fence, and Muslim attitudes towards America in Searching For The Roots Of 9/11. Friedman uses his access and expertise to lead viewers through an examination of Europe’s often conflicting attitudes towards America. Friedman pursues the causes, consequences, and potential solutions to this critical conflict. Europeans debate terrorism, poverty, and climate. Leading experts Timothy Garton Ash, an internationally acclaimed contemporary historian whose expertise is European relations after 1945, and Joseph Joffe, the co-editor of the German weekly publication Die Zeit, also reveal their diverging insights into the current state of trans-Atlantic relations. Traveling to Paris, Friedman engages Bernard Dargols, an 85-year-old veteran of D-Day. Dargols talks at length about the depth of his generation’s gratitude toward America. But much of today’s generation of French youth does not share that sentiment. While sitting with Friedman in a McDonald’s and sharing French fries, a group of students express affection for America but bitterly mourn what they see as its lost commitment to freedom, democracy, diversity and tolerance.

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Mikimoto "Pearls in Motion" from $2,500 to $25,000.

Mikimoto provided jewelry for the Kevan Hall show, and we were impressed by their catalog, which was in the gift bag. Our favorite is the "Pearls in Motion" collection, which was initially introduced in 2002, with new pieces being added.

At first glance, this "Pearls in Motion" choker looks like a chain from which 5 or 7 mm cultured pearls are dangling. But "Pearls in Motion" can be transformed to suit your mood. Each pearl is attached to an adjustable chain with an invisible mechanism that can be lengthened and shortened to transform the necklace. The necklace can be converted from a choker to a long chain with a simple movement. All pieces remain permanently attached to the necklace, so they don't get lost.

"Pearls in Motion" earrings by Mikimoto

The Mikimoto Pearls in Motion™ collection includes a range of Akoya and Black Lipped Cultured Pearl pendants, including an eleven pearl pendant where the design is such that the clasp can close between any pearl and the pearls slide along the chain giving the wearer complete independence to customize the jewelry to suit any occasion. Similarly, the 'Y' shaped pendant with three Akoya Cultured Pearls or Black Lipped Cultured Pearls, allows the wearer to adjust the pendant for any neckline.

The new collection comprises nine additional pieces, using Akoya, Black Lipped and Golden Lipped Cultured Pearls. The wearer can reposition the pearls along an 18K white or yellow gold chain, each piece being designed so pearls remain in place after being moved, giving a number of looks from a single necklace. Also included in the collection is an exquisite fringe necklace, festooned with eight Akoya Cultured Pearls, and a pendant incorporating one white, one gold and one Black Lipped Cultured Pearl. The piece de resistance of the collection is a pendant with a single Golden Lipped Cultured Pearl (Baroque). Each pendant has been designed to co-ordinate effortlessly with pearl bracelets, with either Akoya Cultured Pearls, or dramatic Tahitian Cultured Pearls. www.mikimoto.com

Milan's Sue Wong Fetches $2K

The Sue Wong “Regine” gown worn by recording artist and actress Christina Milian sold for $2,000.00 at The Clothes Off Our Back Foundation charity auction. “Regine” is a fuchsia floral printed silk/satin devoré sarong style dress, with a pleated bra and hip and hand beaded accents. The dress retails at Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Macy’s West, and better boutiques for $439.00. Milian originally wore the Sue Wong gown to the 31st Annual People'’s Choice Awards on January 10, 2005 in Pasadena, California.

BBC Mines "Office Terriority"

BBC's The Smoking Room


Smokin' in the Boys Room

BBC America’s original premiere comedy, The Smoking Room is set entirely in the smoking room of a large company. The UK’s latest comedy hit explores the personal foibles and suppressed longings of an odd assortment of characters. It doesn’t matter how much you earn, only whether your lighter works, you can spare a cigarette, and remember the theme tune to Little House on the Prairie. Airs Saturdays starting April 2, 2005 at 9 p.m. on BBC America.

Some people - lazy lothario Clint, grouchy security guard Len and sad, bumbling Barry (seen above) - seem to spend their entire day in the smoking room. None of these individuals would normally socialize together, but their shared love of nicotine provides a tenuous link between them. The action never leaves this refuge, but smokers (and the occasional non-smoker) flit in an out. The Smoking Room brings together personnel of all ranks.

Lovelorn Robin (whose passion for Ben from the mailroom remains unspoken), Annie, an entirely self-centered emotional wreck, and put-upon PA Janet regularly pop in and out for a gossip. Recently divorced Lilian regularly livens-up proceedings with tales of her newfound freedom, while for Sharon, the snobbish boss who desperately wants to be popular, it’s a place to show off her power.

With a similar pace to The Office, the series explores all human life, as it’s played out in the self-contained world of the smoking room. It’s where you’ll find a microcosm of all human life rolled up into a comedy.

From the UK’s The Times:

Like The Office, the sitcom is the result of a BBC initiative to give new writing talent an opportunity. It is the first series for Brian Dooley, the writer, and he has been partnered by Gareth Carrivick, a veteran director of sitcoms including The Vicar of Dibley.

Emma Kennedy, who plays Heidi — a character “so deadly boring that no one noticed when she was away for six months on maternity leave” — describes the scripts as a cross between The Royle Family and The Office.

Get In The Mood

Moodivations

Moodivations

In A Good Mood: If there’s one thing BeansTalk likes, it’s to be pampered. We were delighted to discover the charms of Moodivations, a Southern California-based mobile-spa service, run by two wonderfully positive and innovative women, Kibibi Springs and Alicia Jackson. Their website, www.moodivations.com, features a “Moodivation Deck” of on-line inspirational cards (and we mean in the feel-good, be positive inspirational way, not in the born-again sense). A links page actually sends you off the Moodivations site onto associates, friends or just-for-fun sites. The intention is clear: it’s about feeling good, period.

Why: Packages are thoughtfully designed, and Springs and Jackson don’t seem preoccupied with keeping their material and packages proprietary, as it’s all detailed on their website. They’re confident enough that Moodivations will set itself apart in service. Regular readers of the BeansTalk Daily Newsletter know that we don’t often editorialize, unless we’re clearly reviewing or have experienced services ourselves. In this case, we can wholly vouch for and support Jackson, and in turn, Springs. You won’t be disappointed.

Say Ah: They offer the “My Time” 60 minute massage or facial, and Moodivations Candle and affirmation for $120, although there’s a great promotion currently going on, for only $95, for first-time registrants (promo code MT95W). Moodivations also offers series’ of “My Time” for reduced rates. See site for details. As much as BeansTalk positively adores Raz and The Ona Spa, you can’t beat that kind of treatment in your own home.

Mobile Spa Packages:

Power Pamper: one hour for yourself or a friend (or a group of friends) $50 each, for the services of a Moodivations professional and two signature services. Four or more, 15 min. massage per person; buff, polish and brighten bar, and the illumination station (parties of eight or more and the hostess is free).

Power Pamper Deluxe: An upgraded version of the above, with 1 ½ hrs. of treatment for $95 person (40 min. massage, facial or mani-pedi; parties of eight or more and hostess is free)

Illumination: 2 ½ hrs. of service each for $210 per person for parties of four or more, and includes a Moodivations professional, two 30-min. services (massage, facial, full mani or full pedi), the above services, as well as the Aromahhhtherapy Bar. Each guest receives a travel candle pack, too. (Parties of eight or more and the hostess is free.)

Illumination Deluxe: A half-day of total pampering, with two 60-minute services (and the other treats mentioned above) for $350 per person. Guests receive a Moodivations Signature gift. (Six or more and the hostess is free)

Get Me An Invite: Here’s something that’s phenomenally reasonable and perfect for a gals’ get together or special event, the Moodivations Moment Spa Party, a 50-minute introductory pampering session from Moodivations for only $25 per person with a minimum of five guests.

Includes:

• Tea & Crumpet Buffet
• 7 minutes of Heaven with a Professional Massage Therapist
• Aromahhhtherapy Bar
• Personalized Pamper Prescriptions
• Relaxation Tools
• FREE Moodivations Aromahhhtherapy Gift

Parties of six or more, hostess is free

Group Add-On Services
• Beverage Service & Healthy Snacks $12/person
• Tranquility Tea Service (6 course meal w/ tea) $30/person

Hostess Add-On Services
• Aromahhhtherapy Bath or Turndown Service $15/person
• Moodivations Signature Gift $40/person
• Photo Book Services (by took’s books) $35/book

There are also Corporate Packages and dreamy Wedding Shower (or probably Baby Shower, too) Packages.

Moodivation also sells Aromahhhtherapy products and gift certificates, too. Moodivations Aromahhhtherapy – Aspirations in a Bottle: Moodivations’ aromatherapy products are made from 100% pure essential and fragrance oils. Each scent is named and uniquely blended and named to capture the essence of Moodivation's aspirations for a healthy mentality and a balanced lifestyle. Look for Affirmationwear 2005 and Home Inspirations 2005, too.

Info: www.moodivations or call 888-754-0327.

Kibibi Springs, Jennifer Scott-Cooke and Alicia Jackson of Moodivations Mobile Spa Services. From last fall's Sunday in the Valley event. The company will make appearances at other events throughout the Southland, too, so check their website for information. Moodivations has already been written about in several publications, so make an appointment while you still can!

Pulitzer Prize ®Winning New York Times Columnist Thomas L. Friedman Reports On European Views Of America In
New Discovery Channel Special : Does Europe Hate Us? Thomas L. Friedman Reporting



On Thursday, April 7, 2005, at 8 p.m. (ET/PT), Discovery Channel airs Does Europe Hate Us? Thomas L. Friedman Reporting a one-hour special offering a look at the strained relations between America and one of its closest allies, Europe.
Friedman’s previous Discovery Channel television specials focused on global job migration in The Other Side Of
Outsourcing, the ramifications of the West Bank Wall in Straddling The Fence, and Muslim attitudes towards America in Searching For The Roots Of 9/11. Friedman uses his access and expertise to lead viewers through an examination of Europe’s often conflicting attitudes towards America. Friedman pursues the causes, consequences, and potential solutions to
This critical conflict. Friedman brings firsthand analysis from Europeans debating terrorism, poverty, and climate. Leading experts Timothy Garton Ash, an internationally acclaimed contemporary historian whose expertise is European relations after 1945, and Joseph Joffe, the co-editor of the German weekly publication Die Zeit, also reveal their diverging insights into the current state of trans-Atlantic relations. Traveling to Paris, Friedman engages Bernard Dargols, an 85-year-old veteran of D-Day. Dargols talks at length about the depth of his generation’s gratitude toward America. But much of today’s generation of French youth does not share that sentiment. While sitting with Friedman in a McDonald’s and sharing French fries, a group of students express affection for America but bitterly mourn what they see as its lost commitment to freedom, democracy, diversity and tolerance.
 

Madonna's Hair has Halo Glow

Madonna

Madonna's Halo of Hair: Colorist Steven Tapp of Prive Salon in Los Angeles, has introduced a new method of hair restoration, to protect processed hair in preparation for color, which he previewed the treatment on his most famous client, Madonna. Mrs. Ritchie said, “now this is how hair should feel!”

The Protein Hair “Facial,” was created by Prive Salon stylist Shelee Maeda. The process prep hair for better, longer lasting and more brilliant color results, and serves as a form of pampering.

The treatment begins with a liquid soy-protein base, a type of protein that is closest to the hair’s natural keratin, which is massaged into the hair shaft through the ends. The protein penetrates deep into the hair under a dryer, bonding it to the cortex of the hair shaft. Hair is then rinsed, a moisturizer is massaged into the hair, then steamed for 15 minutes, allowing the protein and moisture to seep into the cortex of the hair, as the cuticle is opened. The final rinse with cool water, closes the cuticle, sealing in the moisture.

Reps say it offers a level of shine, silk like texture and balance equivalent to that of a child’s. In addition to adding a glow, hair will grow faster and stronger. This 30-minute treatment is exclusively at Prive Salons in Los Angeles and NY for $75. Tapp’s other celebrity clients include: Carmen Electra, Cameron Diaz, and Ricky Martin.

More Hall of Fame

Gospel singer Yolanda Adams poses for photographers at the 36th NAACP Image Awards in Los Angeles, March 19, 2005. Adams performed at the awards show. The awards, presented by the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, honor people of color in the entertainment industry, and will be telecast in the United States on the Fox television network March 25, 2005 REUTERS/Fred Prouser

Adams is wearing a kiwi silk taffeta opera chemise with aqua crystal beaded pants for her performance during the show. This look is from Kevan Hall's Spring 2005 Collection.

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More Kevan Hall at the NAACP Awards

Khandi Alexander of CSI:Miami presented and wore a black matte jersey column gown with silk- taffeta draped bodice and empire train from Kevan Hall’s Spring 2005 Collection.

Lisa Gay Hamilton, who’ll star with Holly Hunter and Glenn Close in the upcoming film Nine Lives, wore Kevan Hall’s aqua embroidered lace fishtail gown.

Shaun Robinson of Access Hollywood wore Kevan Hall’s magenta strapless evening gown in flocked-tulle and embroidered with semi-precious stones.

In Other Fashion News

Nicole Miller dressed actress Brooklyn Sudano of “My Wife and Kids” for the 36th Annual NAACP Image Awards in an embroidered silk manuscript and spray dyed silk long dress from Nicole Miller’s Spring Summer 05 Signature collection. Sudano carried a Clara gold burma suede even bag with Swarovski crystal frame by Rodo and gold burma suede heels also by Rodo. Sudano’s sister, Amanda Sudano also wore Nicole Miller to the awards.

Model/Actress Beth Ostrowski, who dates Howard Stern, wore an Earnest Sewn denim mini-skirt on Spike TV’s Casino Camera. Ostrowski chose the Fader mini in a Milk Blue 3D wash in Italian rigid denim.

Jessica Alba celebrated her cover photo at a party this weekend for GQ’s April 2005 issue, wearing shoes by Rickard Shah. Alba, who can be seen in the upcoming film Sin City, chose Rickard Shah’s black-satin peep-toe Kelly pumps with a 4.5-inch heel.

Kevan Hall's dress from Spring/Summer 2005 as it originally appeared at L.A. Fashion Week in October 2004. Notice the slight alterations to the dress that made it Yolanda Adams' at the NAACP Awards.

We were introduced to this cool new site, SandDollar (www.sanddollarcosmetics.com). They have mineral powders, makeup, lip and fragrance balms, skin and hair products, candles, and accessories on an easy-to-access site. The products don't seem to be your run-of-the-mill type and the company's "Live In Peace" (L.I.P.) philosophy is infused throughout their products. Celebrity clients include singer & songwriter Kate Miner, urban-alternative performer Christia Mantzke, and Grammy Award winner Ladybug Mecca. Other fans include author Judith Kristen, artist Carmen Macias, designer Addy Perez-Mau. The LiveInPeace (LIP) balm was selected as a VIP gift for the IndieProducers awards, recipients include Andy Garcia and Estephania LeBaron. Info, (818) 203-2508. They're based in West Hills, Calif.

Hair stylist Mateo Herreros of Cristophe Salon works on celebrity clients such as Josie Davis, Jamie Lynn DiScala, Paola Mendoza, Christina Laken, Jodie Lynn O'Keefe, Maria Menunous and also created looks for the Golden Globes (seen on E!), and TMG Luxury Suites. He feels it's more important for his clients to be happy with their look as well as being able to maintain it once they've left the salon. Christophe Salon: 348 N Beverly Drive 310 274 0851. Hours: Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat 8:15 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday 8:15 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Mark Stephens has relocated to Estetica Salons, after a decade at Cristophe Salon. His clients include Pamela Anderson, Tom Petty, Janice Dickenson and Kate Hudson. Stephens joins long-time pal Eric Felix. Both specialize in color. Estetica Salons 9635 S. Brighton Way, Beverly Hills 310-274-1553.

Hell's Bells

Hell's Kitchen

Hellish Kitchen

NBC’s about to premiere their first-a-Brit series, The Office, and on May 30, 2005, Fox will offer up the U.S. version of “Hell’s Kitchen,” an unscripted series stars Chef Gordon Ramsay. Hell’s Kitchen is a culinary boot camp that features a group of aspiring restaurateurs opening a top-class restaurant, overseen by Ramsay and premieres Monday, May 30, 2005 at 9 p.m. on Fox.

A former pro-soccer-player-turned-Michelin-starred-chef, Ramsay’s in Los Angeles to open the city’s newest restaurant and discover – or create – the country’s next culinary star. Adapted from the British short-run series of the same name (which you may have seen on BBC America), Hell’s Kitchen follows12 competing chefs 24/7. The participants may have varying culinary experience, whether as a burger flipper, a mother of six or a barbeque wiz, but one thing they all have in common is a passion for food.

New Season of The Kumars

The Kumars at No. 42 on BBC America

The Kumars At No. 42 are back Wednesday nights in a new season premiering at 9:40 p.m. ET and 10:40 p.m. PT on May 4, 2005.

Part scripted comedy, part improvisation, part genuine interview; The Kumars at No. 42 offers a twist on the traditional talk show format. Star struck son Sanjeev (Sanjeev Bhaskar) ostensibly conducts the interviews but has to contend with wildly inappropriate and irrelevant questions and interruptions from his family - and what a family! Mom, Madhuri (Indira Joshi), is always plying guests with food and trying to get Sanjeev married off. Dad, Ashwin (Vincent Ebrahim), has a tendency to tell long, tedious stories and is obsessed with money. While granny Sushila (Meera Syal), affectionately called Ummi, has a youthful zest for life and, ... good-looking men.

On arrival, the guests are inevitably embroiled in whatever domestic dispute is taking place before being ushered to the back of the house where the Kumars have converted their garden into a state-of-the-art TV studio.

Guests at No. 42 this season are Jennifer Saunders (Absolutely Fabulous), Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees, gardening goddess Charlie Dimmock and comedy talk-show host Graham Norton.

The series is the winner of two International Emmys, a bronze rose of Montreux at Europe's top television awards and Best New TV Comedy at the British Comedy Awards.

Behind the Scenes: WW II

Nicholas Winton, hero



Two Cinemax Docs Explore Good and Evil

Good: The Power of Good tells the story of Sir Nicholas Winton, an Englishman who saved the lives of almost 700 mostly Jewish Czechoslovakian children in the months before World War II. Czechoslovakia was Nazi-occupied. He brought the children to his native Britain. The inspiring film paints a portrait of the heroic man, who for nearly 50 years never told anyone about his extraordinary rescue mission. The story materialized in 1988 when the BBC broadcast a show about the first meeting of approximately 100 of the rescued children with their “secret” rescuer. This documentary reunites him with the surviving "Winton children" and their descendants, the latter of which there are more than 5,000. This Cinemax Reel Life award-winning documentary debuts immediately following Gray Matter (details below), Saturday, April 12, 2005 at 7 p.m. Winton’s involvement was the focus of the little-seen 1999 Rupert Graves movie, “All My Loved Ones.”

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Evil: Gray Matter investigates the shocking circumstances by which an esteemed Austrian physician allegedly killed hundreds (reports say as many as 800) of children during World War II in order to experiment on their brains. In an attempt to track down Dr. Heinrich Gross, and find out what really happened at the Spiegelgrund hospital, award-winning filmmaker Joe Berlinger travels to Austria and documents his search to uncover the truth. Gross, who escaped after WWII and was only brought to trial in 2000, continue to elude justice as he was deemed to be suffering from Parkinson’s and unfit to stand trial. The Cinemax Reel Life documentary debuts Tuesady, April 12, 2005 at 6 p.m. on Cinemax.

Back in the Studio: Journey guitarist Neal Schon, bassist Ross Valory, keyboardist Jonathan Cain, singer Steve Augeri and drummer Deen Castronovo are at the Record Plant recording studio in Sausalito, California working on their 13th studio album. It'’s their first since 2002'’s Red 13, a four-song EP and 2001’s full-length Arrival album. In recent interviews, Schon hinted at a three to four-hour show of hits, as well as more obscure songs from their entire catalog, from their 1975 self-titled debut the three other pre-Steve Perry albums. Before Journey disbanded in 2001, they produced 12 albums, including eight platinum. The recent incarnation introduces a new generation to the band.

Graceful "Kelly" Jessica Alba was outside the Ed Sullivan theater in New York wearing shoes by Rickard Shah. The actress, appearing on the Late Show with David Letterman to promote her new film Sin City, wore Rickard Shah'’s silver satin peep toe Kelly pumps with a 4.5-inch heel (shown here in ivory). Based in London and designed by Elizabeth Rickard and Binith Shah, the collection of couture shoes and handbags is sold at their own freestanding boutique in London, select Saks Fifth Avenue stores and several other specialty boutiques nationwide. Other Rickard Shah celebrity fans include Drew Barrymore, Christina Milian, Kristin Davis, Eve, Jada Pinkett Smith and Lisa Kudrow. The Kelly has been worn in black by Barrymore, Drea de Matteo, Rachel Bilson and Kerry Washington and in silver by Alba. It retails for $525.

Tru Calling Again

Second Season Premiere: Tru Calling begins its second season premiere with a special two-hour broadcast Thursday, March 31, 2005 at 8 p.m. on Fox. The series airs Thursdays at 9 p.m.

In season one, college grad Tru (Eliza Dushku) found herself working the midnight shift at a morgue. She discovers dead bodies can speak to her and ask for help in preventing their deaths, and when they did, she would relive the day and have the chance to prevent their demise. Tru also discovered that her mother, who was killed when Tru was 12, had the same ability. Tru's father was involved in her mother's murder, but Tru doesn’t know that.

Jason Priestley ("Beverly Hills 90210") joined the series as Jack Harper for the final seven episodes of season one. Tru came to learn that Jack is her opposite - his mission is to guarantee that the people who ask for Tru’'s help still die the second time around. In the season finale, Tru and Jack had a conflict of interest after the body of Tru'’s brother, Harrison (Shawn Reaves), asked for help. As the battle for life and death between Tru and Jack began, Tru’s attempts to save Harrison led to the death of her own on-again, off-again boyfriend.

Season two begins with the battle still raging. Tru’'s father moves to the city so that he can work with Jack and they can maintain their alliance without Tru’s knowledge. Meanwhile, Davis (Zach Galifianakis), the quirky morgue staffer for whom Tru works, continues to support Tru.

Island Lure

Malie from Kaua'i

Hydrosols and Hawai

Malie Kaua’i products from the Garden Isle of Kauai, takes advantage of the purest, most fragrant flowers and fruits in the world, found in Kauai’s eco-system. Unique hybrids and variations of these plants, Pikake, Plumeria, Gardenia and Pineapple, are the indigenous ingredient base for the collection of products for the body, spirit and home.

Hydrosols: Each product is handcrafted with Hawaiian Hydrosols - the distinctive ingredient and foundation of the Malie Kaua’i line. Hydrosols contain every component of the featured plant, flower and fruit. The fluid itself, maintains the soul of the plant that circulates through its cellular structure and is captured for personal and environmental enjoyment. A hydrosol is a hologram of the totality of each flower/fruit used. All the benefits of the source product are utilized in each liquid molecule Extracted from only fruits and flowers, Hawaiian Hydrosols are distilled under high pressure using a patented vacuum process that requires very low temperatures in order to keep the active molecules intact. There are no solvents used in this extraction process. During the process, the fruit and/or floral's own natural juices migrate into the plant veins through which the sap circulates, and is enriched with the fruit's sugars, amino acids, vitamins and minerals. This delicate process harvests the “live” ingredients that are compatible with, and ready to be absorbed by, the skin's surface. Moreover, these floral hydrosols effectively promote metabolic activity, including synthesis, stimulation and regeneration.

History: For centuries, Hydrosols have been recognized as a premier healing, rejuvenating and soothing ingredient. Hawaiian Hydrosols are the purest form of the “flower” of the plant, and thereby the purest fragrance therapy available from the earth today. Using the water directly from the springs of the lush tropical rainforests of Kauai and encapsulated through Malie's distillation process, these hydrosols are confidently considered some of nature's purest fragrant essences.

Uses: Hawaiian Hydrosols are a safe and gentle delivery system of nature's bounty. Traditionally, hydrosols are digested when used to treat health problems. Malie's Hawaiian Hydrosols have been developed into an Essential Perfume, Body Lather cleanser, Body Cream moisturizer, Lotion Bar Soap, Body Butter Bar, all to be absorbed through the skin and inhaled in the lungs and nose, allowing the user to consume the therapeutic benefits of the plant. For personal environments, a Room Spray, Linen Mist, Linen Wash, Hand Soap and Dish Soap all have been developed with a Hydrosol base. The experience of a Hawaiian Hydrosol is as refreshing and energizing as smelling the actual flower. Hawaiian Hydrosols are the only available all-flower, natural hydrosols of Gardenia, Plumeria, Pikake and Pineapple.

Benefits

Plumeria - Aligns the astral and mental bodies bringing forth feelings of empowerment and confidence. It also promotes calmness and is often used as an aphrodisiac. Empowerment, Aligns Soul and Causal bodies, Promotes Calming, Aphrodisiac

Gardenia - The fragrance of romance and promotes love and peace. Considered cosmically balanced, Gardenia has also been known to relieve headaches and tension, bringing about a sense of peace and compassion. Promotes Peace and Healing, Enhances Spiritual Balance and Connection, Relieves Headaches

Pineapple - Opens and amplifies the personal Chakras, boost confidence and may also cause enlightened euphoria., Encourages Self-Assuredness/Confidence, Eliminates feelings of self-doubt, shyness, inferiority, Cleans Meridians

Pikake - An antidepressant with warming and anti-anxiety properties beneficial to the skin and scalp. An aphrodisiac, it is emotionally balancing, soothing, antiseptic, and sedative. Pikake has been found effective in cases of impotence and frigidity.
Releases inhibitions and enhances intimacy, Helps to calm the body mind/alleviate fears. Improves confidence levels, Increases energy and provides motivation

At spas, resorts and specialty retailers worldwide. For additional information visit www.maliekauai.com

Hall of Fame

We Get (In) the Picture: A BeansTalk staffer to Brooke Burke's right, at the Kevan Hall show at Smashbox Studios, Wednesday, March 16, 2005.


Kevan's Hall of Fame

Kevan Hall started the evening shows for Fashion Week on Wednesday, March 16, 2005 at Smashbox Studios in Culver City. We sat behind Brooke Burke (see above photo). Hall took inspiration for his Fall/Winter 2005 collection from tragic opera diva Maria Callas.

Hall collaborated with Mikimoto and Rickard Shah for his Fall/Winter 2005 runway show.

Hall admires the opulent style of opera-diva Maria Callas. He says, "Dramatic and chic, Maria Callas captured the imagination of the artistic world and influenced many with her elegant style." Los Angeles Opera partnered with Hall for the show, providing tickets to their upcoming Der Rosenkavalier performance opening on May 29, 2005.

Maria Callas consistently complimented her dramatic fashion with pearls and the Mikimoto pearls complimented the clean silhouettes of Hall’s collection. Hall accessorized with Rickard Shah shoes. Based in London and designed by Elizabeth Rickard and Binith Shah, the Rickard Shah collection features vintage inspired shoes, from satin and metallic leather to python and lizard designs.

Behind the scenes crew included celebrity makeup artist Paul Starr for Estee Lauder and hair by Matt Adams for Jonathan Salon - cat eyes, red lips, and upswept hair.

In addition to BeansTalk, Garcelle Beauvais-Nilon, Brenda Strong, Lisa Rinna, Cheryl Hines, Rachel Harris, Brooke Burke, Kelly Carlson, Golden Brooks, Judy Reyes, Lucia Rijker, Lisa Gay Hamilton, CCH Pounder, Bonnie Hunt, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Neicy Nash, Golden Brooks, and Marsha Thomason attended.

The Kevan Hall Collection is available at his atelier located at 8255 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, telephone - 323 658-7979, Saks Fifth Avenue and select specialty stores.

Our Observations:

The show was colorful and well-received. Like many other designers during Fashion Week, Hall (who’s brother to actor Vondie Curtis-Hall) used fur (Swakara lamb, Finnish raccoon), but not nearly as much as Michael Hall later did in his Rock and Republic show on Saturday night. We had some favorites including a gorgeous rouge silk-satin back crape gown with beaded insdet, as well as a beautiful flow-y iridescent amethyst silk-chiffon with beaded-back detail.

Peau de Soie, silk satin and silk chiffon were in abundance at this elegant collection.

A turned-around cardigan was paired with a black silk-beaded godet pant.

Knit and jersey were paired with silk satin and silk chiffon.

A few designs featured a signature beaded plaid

An amethyst hammered silk tie-front gown was very Gene Tierney, circa the early 1940s.

A simple teal beaded keyhole back gown was paired with an almost “Long Rider” style chocolate peau de soie opera coat.

Sunburst pleating on a gown’s skirt added dimension.

Urban Decay's New Campaign

Actress Daphne Zuniga at the Genesis Awards, March 19, 2005.

How Could Anyone? Campaign Kicks off at Genesis Awards

Urban Decay Cosmetics kicked off the How Could Anyone? campaign to support and honor their long-time stance against animal testing for cosmetics. The campaign launched at the Genesis Awards last Saturday.

“We don't do animal testing. How Could Anyone?” has been Urban Decay’s motto since 1996 when Sandy Lerner, an animal-rights activist, co-founded the brand. Urban Decay teamed up with The HSUS to launch the How Could Anyone? Campaign. In an effort to spread their message, Urban Decay created a How Could Anyone? Bracelet. 100% of Urban Decay's profits from this bracelet will be donated to the HSUS to help stop cruelty to animals. Urban Decay will provide a minimum of $25,000 to The HSUS.

Attendees Nicolette Sheridan, Sara Rue, Wendie Malick, Lake Bell, and Cheri Oteri, wore the purple cuff-style bracelet. Rachel Bilson, Nicole Richie and Brooke Burke also support Urban Decay and the How Could Anyone? crusade.

Urban Decay How Could Anyone? Bracelet (SRP: $2.00 US) is available online at www.urbandecay.com and at Sephora, ULTA and Nordstroms.

The Genesis Awards

Universal Pictures' "Two Brothers," Zeitgeist Films' documentary, "The Corporation," NBC's "Dateline," ABC's "8 Simple Rules For Dating My Teenage Daughter" and "World News Tonight With Peter Jennings," Showtime's "Huff," HBO's "Real Sports" and Animal Planet's "Animal Cops Houston" and syndicated favorites "The Montel Williams Show" and "Celebrity Justice" are among the 23 honorees being feted for their positive coverage of animal issues at the 19th Genesis Awards.

Presented by The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) Hollywood Office, the Genesis Awards were held on Saturday, March 19, 2005 in the International Ballroom of The Beverly Hilton Hotel, Beverly Hills, CA. The show is taped and edited for a two-hour television special, airing primetime on Animal Planet on Saturday, May 14, 2005 at 8 p.m. You might remember this award being associated with The Ark Trust, which has since merged with the HSUS.

The annual Genesis Awards pays tribute to the major news and entertainment media for producing outstanding works that raise public awareness of animal-protection issues. Recipients are honored in a wide range of categories for covering emerging issues, or bringing a fresh perspective to long-standing ones.

Film and TV celebrities lending their support as presenters at this year's Genesis Awards are, among others: Ed Asner, Julia Barr, Lake Bell, Linda Blair, Bill Brochtrup, Stockard Channing, Kristin Chenoweth, James Cromwell, Amy Davidson, Will Estes, Angus T. Jones, Bill Maher, Wendie Malick, Joe Mantegna, Cheri Oteri, Carre Otis, Carl Reiner, Eric Roberts, Sara Rue, Nicollette Sheridan, Alicia Silverstone, Steve Valentine, Sofia Vassilieva, Sela Ward, Persia White, Debra Wilson and Daphne Zuniga (seen arriving, above)

The 19^th Genesis Award Winners

Feature Film
Two Brothers - Universal Pictures

Documentary Film
The Corporation - Zeitgeist Films

Family Feature Film
Benji: Off The Leash - Mulberry Square Productions

Sid Caesar Comedy Award
8 Simple Rules For Dating My Teenage Daughter "Finale - Part Deux" - ABC

Dramatic Series
Huff "Is She Dead?" - Showtime

TV Newsmagazine
Dateline NBC - "Out To Pasture"

National News Feature
World News Tonight With Peter Jennings - "Animal Cruelty?" - ABC

Children's Programming
That's So Raven - "A Goat's Tale" - Disney Channel

Cable Documentary
Papa Bear - Animal Planet/Discovery

TV Newsmagazine
Real Sports - "Dog Fears" - HBO

TV Talk Show Syndicated
The Montel Williams Show

TV Newsmagazine Syndicated
Celebrity Justice

Reality Programming
Animal Cops Houston - Animal Planet

PBS Documentary - National
Best Friend Forgotten

Local PBS Documentary
Out Of The Pit: Dog Fighting In Chicago - WTTW (Chicago)

Local News Feature
KTVU (Bay Area) - Circus Elephants

Local News Series
WPMI-TV (Mobile, Alabama) - "Pork and Politics"

Periodical
Time Magazine - "Saving the Big Cats" by Terry McCarthy with
Andrea Dorfman

Series of Newspaper Articles
Florida Sun Sentinel - "Below the Surface" by Sally Kestin

Cartoonist/Ongoing Commitment
Patrick Mcdonnell - "Mutts"

Brigitte Bardot International Award
Carte Blanche (South Africa) - "Animals and the Law"

Doris Day Music Award
Nellie Mckay - The Dog Song - Sony Music Entertainment Inc.

Student Award
Michael Croland, Journalist - Carnegie Mellon University
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Bollywood Does Jane Austen

Martin Henderson and Aishwarya Rai in Miramax's Bride and Prejudice: The Bollywood Musical - 2004

Musical Madness in This Once Regency-Set Story Turned To Today

There's a big chuckle to be had during the credit roll of "Bride and Prejudice," and it's not from the wacky outtakes they edited in, a la a Jackie Chan movie. What's hilarious is the "Inspired by Jane Austen" credit. Inspired? Why not call a spade a spade and say it was "Pride & Prejudice," which is completely is? Whole graphs were taken from the dialogue and there was little in this infectious, colorful musical that wasn't in the Austen original. There are only four, not five daughters in this version, poor Kitty having been left out with Lady Catherine (the Lady Catherine character has turned into Darcy's mother [!])

OK, so Martin Henderson isnt' Colin Firth (then again, who is, besides the man himself?), but he's wholly capable and credible and despite the critics, his acting is perfectly fine (Alexis Bledel of "Gilmore Girls," as his sister "Georgie," [instead of Georgiana, get it?] is an entirely different story. Shiver.)

They've played the character of Wickham (here called "Johnny Wickam," and played by Rachel Leigh Cook's fiance Daniel Gillies) more initially smarmy than he is in the novel or in the now classic A&E miniseries. Readers and viewers were originally meant to believe that "Elizabeth" (here, Lalita) might have some reason to believe Darcy (Henderson) is arrogant and perhaps unkind, and Wickham was intended to throw the readers/audience into thinking he might be an appropriate, albeit poor, suitor for the story's heroine. Here, you immediately know Darcy's charms will win in the end. It's also as though having Gillies sport a five-'o-clock shadow throughout vilifies him further. The Lydia (here "Lakhi," pronouced Lucky) sub-plot is also muddled and diffused.

On the other hand, this film's "Mr. Collins," Nitin Chandra Ganatra (here, "Mr. Kholi") is hilarious and it is through this character where the "modernization/Bollywoodization" of Austen's novel is most succesful.

If you can concentrate on something other than how beautiful Aishwarya Rai is, there's a lot to like in this film.

Tan-Lineless Topless Sandal

"Topless Sandals" Down Under from Yuma-based That's Cool Inc.


The Ideal Pedicure Sandal

At the Oscar Retreat, we sampled The Original Topless Sandal by That's Cool Inc., which adheres, without visible means of attaching, to your foot. It’s most recently been in celebrity gift bags and catching the attention of many.

Sold as the “Down Under,” the sandal’s designed to be worn as a beach shoe, pedicure sandal, a house slipper, on the pool deck, at the camp site, to the market or just out for a walk. No tan lines, no hot feet, no blisters, anything between toes. All the comforts of being barefoot without the possibility of stepping on anything painful.

When the adhesive stops bonding well or when they get dirty, a soap and water scrub applied with a stiff bristle brush will clean them right up. Letting them dry well in a warm area rejuvenates the glue and the shoe comes right back to its original state. They’re reusable and the owners tell BeansTalk they’ll last between two to three years (!). Feet don’t stay sticky, as it adheres to the shoe, not your foot. Peel the sandals off from the heel or get them wet for easier removal.

Topless Sandals come in : Women's Small (5-6), Women's Medium (7-8) Women's Large (9-10) Men's Sizes: Men's Small (7-8), Medium (9-10) Large (11-12) Ex Large (13-14).

It’s the perfect pedicure sandal because it wholly preserves your pedicure and allows nail varnish full-drying time (which most women can never really wait for).

The patent-pending sandal has evolved from its original adhesive coated rubberized sole to the current fashionable, fabric coated, neoprene product. The adhesive coats allow the user to step on the sandal and walk off (be sure you center your foot initially).

The special skin adhesive built into the sandal adheres to the foot without leaving a “sticky” residue. BeansTalk was allergic, but we’re highly sensitive (and they’re not actually recommended for folks like us). Many others loved the versatility.

Among the celebs who have them: CCH Pounder, Nickelodeon's Lisa Foiles, Catherine Bach, Gabrielle Tuite of “The Price is Right,” and prolific character actor Danny Trejo (played Antonio Banderas’ brother in “Spy Kids,” known for his scarred face, a long, thin moustache, and a muscular body with large tattoos. He’s also director Robert Rodriguez’ cousin). Soap stars Judith Chapman ('Y&R'), Suzanne Rogers ('Days'), Daphne Bloomer ('Days"'), Heather Lindell ('Days'), McKenzie Westmore ('Passions'), Julie Pinson ('Days'), Lauren Woodland ('Y&R'), Renee Jones ('Days'), Michelle Stafford ('Y&R'), Amelia Marshall ('Passions'), Martha Madison ('Days'), Juliette Mills ('Passions'), Shanelle Workman ('B&B') and Rachel Kimsey ('Y&R') have those as well as the accessorizing Foot Thong.

You may find other vendors, but we can vouch for these folks (the website doesn't seem to be working at this moment, so you email or call928-343-2170) : Thatscoolinc@aol.com or www.thats-cool-inc.com

Nicole Miller dressed actress Angelina Jolie for the Fox 2005 Sho West Press Conference in a silk scarf print halter dress from The Nicole Miller Signature collection. Nicole Miller debuted her Fall 2005 Signature collection recently during New York Fashion Week. Influenced by Viking and Nordic era, the new fall collection features warm autumn colors in olive, rust, gunmetal and antique gold accented by armoured detailing. Jolie is seen above, in the Miller gown, at the 20th Century Fox ShoWest presentation and luncheon to promote her movie 'Mr. and Mrs. Smith,' at the Paris Las Vegas hotel March 17, 2005 in Las Vegas, Nevada. ShoWest is the official convention of the National Assn. of Theatre Owners. REUTERS/Ethan Miller

Knotty by Nature: New from Manolo Blahnik, the “Rena.” Available at Neiman Marcus, with the rest of the new collection. Rena retails for $675.

By the way, Sideways star Virginia Madsen's Oscar shoes, a pair of size 38 Jimmy Choo sandals (from the Spring 2005 "House" collection, the Jag 85mm), signed by the nominee, sold for $650 on an on-line charity auction on March 13, 2005. That seems like a really good deal (since they probably retailed for more than that, as they were an evening sandal). It surely a nice collectible for the fan, of either Choo shoes or Madsen. The proceeds from the Clothes off Our Back auction benefit the Children's Defense Fund, Smile Train, Cure Autism Now and UNICEF's tsunami relief fund.