SpaRitual Hand, Foot and Body Spa Collection
Center Yourself with SpaRitual’s Chakra Care System

by Andrea Goodwin, associate editor (agoodwin@beanstalkbiz.com)

From the BeansTalk Confessional: This staffer’s husband sometimes affectionately refers to us as a lizard, and when he is in an especially good mood: a gila monster. Okay, it is not what you think. He is not referring to our skin, only our internal thermostat. There is no way he could be referring to our skin because we regularly luxuriate in SpaRitual’s Chakra Care products, and judging from how often he is trying to feel us up, he must love them too…

SpaRitual has recently introduced a fine collection of vegan spa treatments to nourish your mind, body, hands, feet and nails. (BeansTalk note: You do not have to be vegan, of course, to be taken in by the aromas and restorative properties of these beauty boosters.) The collection is well-crafted to enhance the daily well-being of the SpaRitualist. How? The multipurpose system unlocks the powers of the Chakras, or energy centers, and leaves the soul and body feeling relaxed and renewed.

Infused with specially sourced and selected plant essences, the seven custom-blended formulas and three bath salts have been designed to energize a specific Chakra within the body and deliver therapeutic benefits. The varying aromatic fragrances energize, soothe, nourish, refresh and relieve modern day stresses on the mind and body.

The SpaRitual Chakra Care System links a specific essential oil to each Chakra that triggers and stimulates that attribute to direct energy properly and balance the Chakra. The new SpaRitual collection also has a subtle fragrance-energy that naturally lends itself for use in Chakra care. As always, remaining truthful to the SpaRitual tradition, the collection is vegan, naturally colored, free of synthetic dyes and uses many Wildcrafted and organic ingredients.


The Collection

Infinitely Loving Oil – massage therapy blend ($28.00)

A blend of Chinese Jasmine extract and essential oils energizes the Heart Chakra. For body, hands and feet, the Oil conditions the skin leaving it soft, smooth and glowing.

Harmonizing Soak Tonic – bath conditioner ($26.00)

Italian Mandarin essential oil energizes the Sacral Chakra. The Soak soothes the body and mind physically as well as with aromatherapy. May be used alone or with the bath salts.

Instinctual Moisturizing Lotion – hydrating therapy lotion ($28.00)

Wild-crafted Indonesian Ginger essential oil energizes the Root Chakra. Nourishes and moisturizes especially dry patches and helps heal chapped, cracked skin. BeansTalk found the ginger scent to be clean and subtle, a mood elevator.

Infinitely Wise Fragrant Mist – eau de toilette ($26.00)

French Lavender essential oil energizes the Crown Chakra. The fragrant mist relieves mental and physical exhaustion, rejuvenates tired feet and refreshes your surroundings. Spray this light fragrance onto your yoga mat or after a bath to enhance your daily ritual. Again, BeansTalk appreciated that there was no need for friends to escape a cloud of perfume while we wore this. It was like a little reminder to ourselves that we are taking good care of ourselves. Subtle, fresh, and lovely.

Visionary Cleanser – sanitizer ($18.00)

Wild-crafted French Juniper Berry essential oil energizes the Third Eye Chakra. This multipurpose spray sanitizes hands and feet, removes oils and residue to enhance nail lacquer adhesion. Also may be used to sanitize yoga mats.

Eloquent Toner – firming mist ($18.00)

Australian Tea Tree essential oil energizes the Throat Chakra. This toner firms body, hands and feet and soothes dry skin.

Affirming Scrub Masque – exfoliating and refining duo ($28.00)

Wildcrafted Indonesian Ginger essential oil energizes the Solar Plexus Chakra. This scrub-and-masque in one exfoliates and refines the skin for a more streamlined hand, foot and body treatment. Contains Micro-algae, which opens pores and preps the skin to receive the optimal benefits of the ginger.

Open Your Eyes – 21 mineral bath salts ($22.00)

Organic Australian Eucalyptus essential oil energizes the Sacral Chakra. This bath salt clears the mind, reduces fatigue and soothes sore muscles. Use alone or with SpaRitual
Harmonizing Soak Tonic when bathing.

Close Your Eyes – 21 mineral bath salts ($22.00)

Egyptian Geranium essential oil energizes the Sacral Chakra. This bath salt calms the mind and reduces feelings of anxiety. Use alone or with SpaRitual Harmonizing Soak Tonic. BeansTalk loves this product in the foot bath. Perfect for the end of the day!

Look Inside – 21 mineral bath salts ($22.00)

Wildcrafted Indian Frankincense essential oil energizes the Sacral Chakra. This bath salt helps to focus the mind and soothe the body. Use alone or with SpaRitual Harmonizing Soak Tonic.

SpaRitual’s line of Vegan Multipurpose Spa Products can be found in premiere spas around the world including Great Jones Spa in New York, the Mandarin Oriental and Canyon Ranch Spa locations. Visit http://www.sparitual.com/ for more information.

The Denim Beat: Wider is Better

BeansTalk had fun with the skinny jean, we admit it. However, we could not be happier that the super flared jean is back. It is comfy, and offers a balance to many female frames. Check out Jennifer Biel wearing 7 For All Mankind’s very smart-looking interpretation.

Super Flare is the widest 5-pocket fit in the 7 For All Mankind collection. It sits low on the waist and is fitted through the hips and thighs. The Super Flare widens at the knee, and continues to widen until it finishes off with the ultimate flared leg opening. The epitome of true So Cal style, the Los Angeles Dark is a navy stretch fabrication with whiskering, light abrasion, and fading from front to the rear.

7 For All Mankind's Super Flare:

signature squiggle stitching on back pockets
Zip fly
Cotton / elastane
Machine wash cold
Made in USA

Retail: $156.00

http://www.7forallmankind.com/

George Foreman Comes To BeansTalk's Kitchen

Or at least one of his grilling machines will. Did you know that there are 14 different George Foreman Grilling Machines? We didn’t, but now we do.

We’re anxious to try out the latest addition to our kitchen:

Next Grilleration G5 5 Interchangeable Plates Searing, Grill, Bake/Griddle, Waffle!
124 Page Recipe Book
$ 129.99

84 square inch cooking surface
Interchangeable plates with exclusive triple non-stick coating
On/Off button
Temperature control
Power and Ready light
Tilt feature


Prepare your favorite dishes in no time at all with George Foreman's G5 grill. Featuring five interchangeable plates and channels that remove grease, it's the perfect appliance for making healthier, better-tasting foods — from breakfast to midnight snacks— quick and easy.
Set Includes:

* One grill plate
* One steak plate
* Two waffle plates
* One shallow pan
* Temperature control
* Tilt feature
* One-inch floating hinge
* On/off button
* Power and ready light

Visit igrillwithgeorge.com

Halloween is not just for Kids...

Click on the photo to enlarge

If you are in the LA area, please find them at 512 Wilshire Blvd. in Santa Monica
or place your order on the web at: www.vanillabakeshop.com

Howard Himelstein's "My Sexiest Year"

BeansTalk has learned that the world premiere of the coming-of-age dramedy "My Sexiest Year" was held at the Hamptons Intl Film Festival on Thursday Oct 18th at 6pm. ThinkFilms has picked it up for distribution and the movie will be in theaters in 2008. The film is the story of a young man's never-to-be-forgotten romantic encounter with an international supermodel. The film stars the notable cast of Harvey Keitel, Frankie Muniz, Amber Valleta, Karolina Kurkova, Roger Wilson, Ryan Cabrera, Haylie Duff, Dan Levy, Nick Zano, Rachel Specter, Christopher McDonald, Daphna Kastner, Victor Alfieri and Frances Fisher.

The film was written and directed by the very talented Howard Himelstein. Himelstein received critical acclaim for his screenplay adapted from the play by Oscar Wilde of “A Good Woman,” which starred Helen Hunt Scarlett Johansson, and Tom Wilkinson.

Century City Celeb Sightings

Sunday night, BeansTalk was out and about Century City Mall with associate Dana Goldstein, who had two (tall-in-stature) celebrity sightings: Matthew Modine (who she said is very blonde) and the look-at-me star of Gene Simmons Family Jewels.

This Is Why We Love Ross

Despite the dirty shopping carts, despite the shopping at checkout (with a massive line behind), despite the almost pathologically lazy salespeople (and this across the board at virtually every Ross we frequent in Southern California), we love Ross Dress For Less. Today we got the bag, seen above, from the Warhol "Silver City" collection. We've been seeing various Warhol bags from Loop NYC at Ross, but none quite struck our fancy until we saw this one today. Amazon.com has the bags for sale right now for $48. We paid $19.99. Granted, we wouldn't have paid more than that, but we're almost always in a discount-shopping frame of mind. We realized that 98% of the time, we exclusive shop this way: clearance or sale racks or discount department stores (the aforementioned Ross, TJ Maxx, Marshalls).

Here's the description (right from Amazon.com) for our new bag:

• Striking tote bag features a removable circular prize portrait pin of Andy Warhol himself alongside (4) purple 'cut & sew' versions of Warhol's 'Flowers' against a backdrop of bold black and white printed canvas
• Artwork officially licensed by The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts; Additional design features include purple contrast stitching, a rectangular bottom base, and (2) Andy Warhol logos on each side that have a creative cracked acrylic paint look and feel to them
• Two-tone double shoulder straps are black on the outside and feature a famous Warhol quote printed on the inside on distressed metallic silver leather-like material
• Additional features include a detachable 'Banana' chain-strap coin purse, (3) interior pockets, and a keychain holder
• DIMENSIONS: 14" wide x 15" high x 4" deep; 9.5" shoulder drop; MATERIAL: Printed Canvas with Applique; COLOR: Multi-Colored (Black/White/Purple)

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Product Description
Every bag lady loves a large bag where she can fit all her everyday essentials. School, work, or travel, -- this tote takes it all. The sleek design of this bag is based on Andy Warhol's original works. Officially licensed by the Andy Warhol Foundation, you can now rock the work of Mr. Warhol with your favorite pair of denim and sneaks. This striking tote bag features a removable circular prize portrait pin of Andy Warhol himself alongside four purple felt-like 'cut & sew' versions of Warhol's 'Flowers' against a backdrop of bold black and white printed canvas. Additional design features include purple contrast stitching, a rectangular bottom base, and two Andy Warhol logos on each side that have a creative cracked acrylic paint look and feel to them. Extras include two-tone double shoulder straps that are black on the outside and feature a famous Warhol quote printed on the inside on distressed metallic silver leather-like material. The detachable chain-strap 'Banana' coin purse makes sure you never misplace your money. A spacious interior and sturdy construction make this bag great for carrying everything from books to a laptop computer. Pretty and practical. A definite must-have for all seasons.

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BeansTalk Sighting

Tonight we saw nip/tuck star Dylan Walsh and his wife, actress Joanna Going, with their daughter, Stella Haven, who turns four next month. And yes, we saw them less than a week after we saw Ron Howard, and at the same location, West Los Angeles’ Westside Pavillon. They were also with Walsh’s “other” Joanna, his daughter from his first marriage to actress Melora Walters (we always remember her from Boogie Nights, but of course now, she is a regular on HBO’s Big Love, playing crazy Wanda Henrickson). Stella was born four months after Walsh’s divorce from Walters was official.

Going was very fashionably dressed, and everything about her garbed kinda shouted “expensive.” She had forties’ styled black suede wedges, the kind that are half shoe, half sandal and sport an ankle strap (these Badgley Mischka’s look very similar: http://www.zappos.com/n/p/dp/30700844/c/3.html; and so do these Beverly Felman’s http://www.zappos.com/n/p/dp/31940658/c/64.html).

Going, who we used to think was a dead ringer for Alyssa Milano, also had a gorgeous handbang, leather with intricate large embroidered flowers in shades of fuchsia and aubergine.

Photo on the right is the couple on the red carpet the nip/tuck premiere Monday night.

For God's Sake, Read the Labels!

Today we went to the Sephora in Manhattan Beach and met a super-nice and informed consultant, Amanda. If you’re around the area, it’s a whole world of difference, attitude-wise, compared to the Sephora in Century City or Santa Monica.

She gave us samples of several different products from the Fresh line, which we’ll try and post our results and opinions.

But on our own, we admired the new high-end line of Bare Esentuals, which had a vessel (for lack of a better description) we thought was very cool. They had an alleged sample size that was still $25, but none in the proper color for our skin. The had the full-size, but that was $65 and we aren’t that commitment.

We were told (not by Amanda) to try Philosophy’s The Supernatural Airbrushed Canvas, which was $35 for .32 oz. Bronze seemed the right color. It wasn’t until a few minutes ago that we looked at the packaging that it is not pure minerals, but an actual foundation with sunscreen.

Honestly, we really believe it was no mistake that they used the exact same kind of dispenser and prominently advertised the SPF (which those familiar with minerals know is a natural built-in component of mineral makeup).

We had gotten some Susan Posnick Mineral Makeup at some awards’ suite and loved it, but thought that was too expensive – and that is comprised of real minerals.

Revlon had the same type of compact (we love things that you can apply single-handed, since we do all of our beauty regime in the car on the way to work) for a very brief period of time for powdered blush. We bought it when it was at Big Lots for $5 (quite pricey for Big Lots, but we’re assuming that it originally was pricier than “regular” Revlon blush.

We’ll try it, but we’re not happy about it. If you learned anything from today’s entry - - and therefore, our mistake, read packaging closely and don’t’ make assumptions. We were caught up in liking the compact and color selection that we didn’t both to be sure it was completely minerals (which it is not, as mentioned earlier – can you tell we’re annoyed?).

We checked out their website and this what they had to say

the supernatural
airbrushed canvas spf 15

what conceals, camouflages, and provides spf protection all in one easy step? philosophy's supernatural airbrush canvas spf 15. this amazing powder is a high-pigment, talc-free foundation that provides a silk to satin finish. multi-tasking powder formula provides sheer, natural coverage and leaves the skin with a smooth, airbrushed appearance. it is incredibly fast and easy to use with the unique sponge applicator and is safe to use on all skin types - from the most sensitive to those prone to breakout. skin perfection combined with sun protection has never looked so beautiful.

natural is a natural-sand shade that provides sheer coverage for light skin tones. the easy to clean sponge top twists off for those who wish to apply their powder with a brush.

you need this product if...
# you want a mess free way to apply mineral foundation and makeup
# you want a luminous, radiant skin look your skin is sensitive or prone to break out
# you are a multi-tasker and you like the idea of a 4-in-1 formula

at Sephora or www.sephora.com

Ben Affleck, Casey Affleck, Brittany Snow, Cheryl Hines, J’Lo’s ex and many more indulge poolside at the Hollywood Awards After Party, hosted by Starz Entertainment.

Starz Entertainment and the Hollywood Film Festival joined forces for the Hollywood Awards After Party. The exclusive party for celebrities and VIP’s, took place Monday, October 22 at 9:30PM featuring DJ. GOC (Les Deux)

Project Runway Designer, Andraé Gonzalo and SINGLE Designer, Galina Sobolev have collaborated to create SINGLE after eight, a line revolving around evening glamour and luxury. The line's namesake after eight is the classic etiquette measure for elegant evening fashion.

SINGLE after eight debuts Spring/Summer 2008 at the upcoming LA Market Week.

SINGLE after eight illustrates Galina and Andraé's keen understanding of their clientele's lifestyle and fashion needs. From SINGLE's celebrity clients such as Jennifer Lopez, Eva Longoria, and Fergie to Andraé's loyal Project Runway following, SINGLE after eight has the ideal dress for any red carpet, gala, and simply looking and feeling fabulous.

Sparkly Reese

Reese Witherspoon looks on before the screening of the movie 'Rendition' at the Rome Film Festival, Sunday, Oct. 21, 2007. Witherspoon wore Platinum and diamond tiered drop earrings and several Platinum and colored diamond bracelets from jeweler Neil Lane. (AP Photo/Sandro Pace)

Rachel Bilson strolls through the streets of LA in her 7 For All Mankind Bootcut jeans.

Bella Belara

BeansTalk has often observed that women do not know how to sample beauty products. The perfume shopper is the perfect example. She wafts her way through the store spraying paper pieces or her own skin, sniffing for a few moments before moving on to the next bottle that has been cleverly packaged. We offer the following simple advice: slow down. Fragrances need several minutes to “set” the same way your make up needs to set on your face. Snap judgments will never really give your olfactory senses a fair chance at making a good decision about a new fragrance.

We certainly hope our readers will give the new introduction by Mary Kay a fair chance. BeansTalk recently was indulged with a generous supply of the lovely Bella Belara fragrances from Mary Kay. We thought the eau de parfum was well suited to us. We can describe the “personality” of this fragrance as warm and apparent of fruit without being “sweet.” The jasmine and mossy scents are reminiscent of evening, making this a lovely parfum to wear out to dinner.

We also especially liked the Bella Belara shimmerific lotion. The very subtle shimmer it leaves on the skin is a mood elevator without being juvenile. We also thought that the lotion escaped the BeansTalk “kiss of death” – being too heavy. It’s not. No need to wash your hands or escape a cloud of fragrance after wearing this one.

Read on:

Bella Belara Eau de Parfum
The exuberant floral fruity eau de parfum captivates immediately. The senses are first treated to a delectable medley of apricot and red nectarine. At its heart, dew-covered rose petals and Moroccan jasmine unfold, while a delightful mix of creamy blond woods and cool moss linger.
Available now at a suggested retail price of $34.00.

Limited Edition Bella Belara Shimmeriffic Body Lotion
The perfect companion for the Bella Belara Eau de Parfum, this lotion bestows a subtle gold and silver shimmer while leaving skin feeling soft to the touch and smelling fresh, confident and beautiful.
Available now at a suggested retail price of $18.00, while supplies last.

Shop online with your Independent Beauty Consultant, or find one at www.marykay.com or call 1-800-MARY KAY (627-9529).

Halloween in Eight Days

BeansTalk’s CEO will be Charlie Chaplin for Halloween – he’s already dressed in the outfit for last night’s Cub Scout meeting and we cannot even begin to tell you how completely and utterly cute and charming he was.

We’re not sure what we’re going to do this year, if anything. But we may want to check out MSN’s Style Studio. Here’s a release they’ve sent us:

Halloween is just around the corner and don’t wait until the last minute to figure out this year’s ghoulish costume!

Style expert Nick Verreos and the MSN Style Studio glam squad can help you create the perfect costume from your own closet. Friday, Oct. 26 – Fun and Flirty Halloween Costumes from your clothes at home w/ Nick Verreos

Need help with the makeup to match that fun and flirty Halloween costume? Don’t despair; makeup artist Troy Jensen and MSN Style Studio glam squad will help you with the finishing touches. Wednesday, Oct. 31 – Halloween Makeup w/ Troy Jensen

MSN’s Style Studio, a web-only video series comprised of segments covering style tips and tricks as well as expert answers to viewer-generated questions from a dedicated message board. The static content ranges from style diaries and trend highlights to customizable advice and celebrity fashion coverage. Segments will change daily and be archived, alongside extras such as personalized ‘look books’ and a resource center to foster user connections. Hosts of Style Studio form a ‘Glam Squad,’ which includes Stefani Greenfield, founder of popular boutique chain SCOOP, well-known makeup artist Troy Jensen, celebrity hairstylist Helena Faccenda and Project Runway designer alums Laura Bennett and Nick Verreos. http://lifestyle.msn.com/stylestudio/

image above: the real Chaplin

BeansTalk Sighting

A smiling Ron Howard, his wife Cheryl and a young man (could've been their son Reed) were at the food court at the Westside Pavillion in West L.A. on Saturday, 20 October 2007. The bearded Howard wore a baseball cap and went unrecognized (except by BeansTalk). Howard got his food from Sobra, which features Middle-Eastern cuisine.

NGC Exposes American Skinheads

The rhetoric can be violent and the crimes brutal: “It’s time to start killing these people … that’s the only way!” Out to destroy anyone who threatens the purity of the white race, racist skinheads are aggressively waging a racial war in the United States. And their numbers are growing.

On Wednesday, November 14, 2007, at 9 p.m. ET/PT, the National Geographic Channel (NGC) delves into one of the fastest-growing and most violent segments of the white power movement in the United States today — American Skinheads. Featuring first-person insight from racist skinhead leaders, sociologists, law enforcement agents and undercover investigators, this compelling one-hour special takes an inside look at how the racist skinhead movement has evolved since its inception in the United States almost 30 years ago. National Geographic Channel cameras take you inside a secret white power meeting in Indiana where members are encouraged to eschew the traditional skinhead shaved head and steel-toed boot look to blend into mainstream society — “Pretend you’re something you’re not … to get the job done.” From secret codes on the Internet to blatant violent lyrics in head-banger metal music, racist skinheads are finding more and more ways to get their message across and fuel their revolution.


American Skinheads also features interviews with another kind of skinhead — who may still sport the shaved head look but not the racist philosophy. Meet James (pseudonym), a member of Skinheads Against Racial Prejudice (SHARP), who claim “pride without prejudice.” They feel pride in their race and their working-class roots, but they ideologically oppose racism and often protest racist skinhead rallies and marches. Andre Aggro (pseudonym), a former racist skinhead who now considers himself a traditional skinhead, talks openly about how he changed his life and works to pull out members that he himself recruited.

Once a radical fringe group comprised of anti-establishment punk rockers and white supremacists, racist skinheads have developed an underground nationwide revolutionary movement with secret meetings, elder statesmen and an ambitious agenda — to overthrow the government and put the white race firmly in control. Their beliefs are similar to Nazi ideals: People of color as well as Jews and homosexuals are inferior to the white race. According to the Anti-Defamation League, there are more than 110 recognized racist skinhead organizations in the United States, and since 2001, the total number of racist skinheads has doubled to an estimated 10,000.


American Skinheads takes a look at a variety of groups and their violent methodologies, from the white supremacist gangs in Arizona who hunt down illegal immigrants crossing the Mexican-American border, to the vicious kicking and beating of a white man mistaken for a drug addict in Tacoma, Wash., by four skinheads, including a pregnant woman who wanted to earn “red laces” to prove she had participated in a violent criminal act. The victim, Randy Townsend, was attacked because drug addicts and dealers are considered a threat to the purity of the white race. Perhaps the most tragic detail of this horrific crime is that Randy was indeed on drugs — to treat his schizophrenia.

“In the past several years there has been a real resurgence of racist skinhead activity in the United States … the amount of criminal activity generated has been considerable,” according to Mark Pitcavage, Ph.D., director of research, the Anti-Defamation League. “This is a movement that hates…. They have an ideology that is … centered on … hatred of people who are not like them and it … compels them to act against those people.”

Also featured in the program are the following:

Andre Aggro (pseudonym), former Volksfront (racist group) member
Randy Blazak, sociologist, Portland State University
Detective Matt Browning, Mesa, Ariz., Police Department
Sandra Harrell, Sister of Washington hate crime victim Randy Townsend
Michele Lefkowith, undercover investigator for the Anti-Defamation League
Loretta Ross, formerly of the Center for Democratic Renewal
Detective Jeff Shipp, Tacoma, Wash., Police Department

Keith Carney, Pennsylvania skinhead
Martin Cox, skinhead leader, California
Erich Gliebe, National Alliance leader and president of racist record label Resistance Records
Dennis Mahon, former Ku Klux Klan leader
Tom Metzger, radio host (“The Insurgent”) and former Ku Klux Klan member
Jason Tankersley, Maryland skinhead and co-director of racist record label Label 56

American Skinheads is produced by M2 Pictures for the National Geographic Channel. For M2 Pictures, series producer is Raymond W. Walsh; producer, writer and director is Mike Sinclair; and editor is Andrew Monument. For NGC, the executive producer is Chris Valentini and the senior vice president of production and development is Juliet Blake.

Coltrane in New BBC America


Complex heist film, The Planman, follows a brilliant lawyer whose mid-life crisis leads to a new double life of crime. Robbie Coltrane (Harry Potter, Goldeneye, Cracker) stars as Jack Lennox, the flamboyant, quick-witted, high-power lawyer who’s spent a career keeping sloppy criminals out of jail. His annoyance at how they make rookie errors and get caught, leads to a shocking new side project—becoming the planman, or mastermind of a new crime ring. This is a very risky line of work for a lawyer, but even worse, he’s married to Gail Forrester (Celia Imrie, Bridget Jones’s Diary, Wimbledon), a Member of Scottish Parliament.
The Planman premieres Sunday, November 11, 8:00 p.m. ET/PT.

In Glasgow’s high court, Jack Lennox is defending police officer Jim Townsend (Vincent Regan, 300, Rescue Me) on a corruption charge, after his fingerprint was found at a crime scene. Lennox confidently cross examines Assistant Chief Constable Brian Richards (Neil Dugeon, The Street, Midsomer Murders), whose team found the questionable fingerprint, the only clue from a six-month underground investigation in search of the city’s biggest crime leader. Lennox deconstructs the case in a simple manner leaving the jury eating from his hand. Townsend’s career has been destroyed, but he’s a free man.

After the trial, Lennox and Townsend coincidentally have tickets to the same soccer game and attend together. In friendly banter, Lennox claims all criminals are caught out of stupidity – all they need is better planning. To prove his point, he uses his methodical prowess to lay out a theoretical scheme to rob a bank in Edinburgh.

Lennox’s wife, Gail Forrester, is a Member of Parliament a job that has left no room for children and little for a husband. Her recent crackdown on crime has the full support of Assistant Chief Constable Brian Richards. Lennox questions the cop’s political motivation, but little does he know that the two share pillow-talk as well as business meetings.

While her affair will be unveiled, it is Lennox’s new dalliances that will threaten the marriage. A few days after the soccer match, he receives an envelope full of cash and learns that the exact bank robbery scheme he outlined was committed. Townsend, who has moved his family to a home in the country, admits to his criminal connections but lures Lennox into his next big robbery.

The new illegal sideline is a boost to his ego and brings excitement to his dormant existence, but his success as a criminal brings its own set of problems. When Richards discovers Lennox’s secret and offers him the chance to keep his freedom, “The Planman” is forced to devise one final brilliant heist that involves handing over four top criminal gangs. His freedom, his wife’s career and, most importantly, his marriage is at risk, so Lennox agrees to the deal Richards is offering.

But it will take more than smarts to pull of this plan. His future is in the hands of Britain’s most dangerous crime bosses and the cop who’s sleeping with his wife. When the heist of a lifetime is executed, will she be standing by his side?

For up-to-the-minute information on BBC AMERICA, forthcoming U.S. premieres, art work and news from the channel, log on to www.press.bbcamerica.com.

BBC AMERICA brings audiences a new generation of award-winning television featuring razor-sharp comedies, provocative dramas, life-changing makeovers and news with a uniquely global perspective. BBC AMERICA pushes the boundaries to deliver high quality, highly addictive and eminently watchable programming to viewers who demand more. BBC AMERICA is distributed by Discovery Networks. It is available on digital cable and satellite TV.

For more information about BBC AMERICA visit www.bbcamerica.com.

CAST AND PRODUCTION CREDITS

Jack Lennox Robbie Coltrane (Harry Potter, Goldeneye, Cracker)
Gail Forrester Celia Imrie (Bridget Jone’s Diary, Wimbledon)
Brian Richards Neil Dudgeon (The Street, Midsomer Murders)
Jim Townsend Vincent Regan (300, Rescue Me)
Deirdre McIntyre John McGlynn (The Queen, Silent Witness)
Lord Belford Graham Crowden (Waiting For God, Doctor Who)
Louise Beattie Deirdre McIntyre

Writer Stuart Hepbum (Taggart, Rebus)

Director John Strickland (Bodies, Prime Suspect)

Producer Mervyn Gill-Dougherty (Peak Practice, Holby City)

Executive Producers Robbie Coltrane
Angus Lamont

An Ideal World Production for ITVI

Deborah Kerr Honored

Sunday, Oct. 21, Double-Feature Tribute Includes Nominated Performances
In From Here To Eternity and Separate Tables



Turner Classic Movies (TCM) will pay special tribute to six-time Oscar® nominee Deborah Kerr, who passed away Thursday at the age of 86. On Sunday, Oct. 21, TCM will present a special double feature of two of Kerr’s most memorable nominated roles. At 8 p.m., she stars as a lonely military wife who seeks happiness through an illicit affair in From Here to Eternity (1953), co-starring Burt Lancaster, Frank Sinatra and Donna Reed. And at 10:15 p.m., she plays a spinster who is completely dominated by her mother while staying at an English seaside resort in Separate Tables (1958), with Lancaster and Oscar winners David Niven and Wendy Hiller.

“Deborah Kerr was one of the great jewels of the movie industry,” said TCM host Robert Osborne. “Not only was she an immensely gifted and versatile actress, but also someone who made every film she touched better.”

Deborah Kerr bio from TCMdb.com

A gifted, sensitive Scottish-born leading actress, Deborah Kerr landed her breakthrough screen role in 1940 as a frightened Salvation Army worker in the fine, all-star adaptation of the potent Shavian satire Major Barbara. Originally trained for the ballet, she moved into stage acting and gained some experience in British repertory theater before segueing to films. Although the shy, quiet side would often remain in Kerr’s later star persona, she, like Greer Garson, gradually acquired a stiff-upper-lip attitude as her native land’s and later Hollywood’s postwar personification of the delicate yet strong, often impassioned English rose.

Kerr moved into leads in an adaptation of the controversial novel that was England’s equivalent of The Grapes of Wrath, the touching study of Depression-era poverty, Love on the Dole (1940). Although she did well in films, including the grim Hatter’s Castle (1941), it was really Kerr’s lovely work in three roles in the splendid Michael Powell-Emeric Pressburger time-spanning saga The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp (1943), as the various women in the hero’s life, that really set her on top. She followed up with several excellent performances in fine films: the mousy wife whose marriage is revitalized when she enters wartime service in Perfect Strangers (1945); the Irish spy in the gripping I See a Dark Stranger (1946); and, especially, a marvelous, award-winning performance as the determined-yet-fallible Sister Superior who attempts to establish a school and hospital in a remote Himalayan castle in Powell and Pressburger’s uniquely unsettling Black Narcissus (1947).

With a string of performances like these, it was only a matter of time before Hollywood beckoned the graceful blonde star, and Kerr was soon co-starring opposite Clark Gable in the enjoyable satire of advertising The Hucksters (1947). In many ways, she filled the void Irene Dunne would soon create by leaving films. Gracious, ladylike and smart, Kerr would in fact recreate two Dunne roles: the proper Englishwoman who becomes governess to a potentate’s brood in the musicalized version of Anna and the King of Siam, The King and I (1956), with her singing dubbed by Marni Nixon, and the heroine prevented from making a crucial rendezvous with her lover in An Affair to Remember (1957), based on Dunne’s Love Affair. The actress’ regal quality suited her for period adventures including Quo Vadis? (1951) and The Prisoner of Zenda (1952), and she also ventured into comedy in Dream Wife (1953) and The Grass Is Greener (1961).

Perhaps the key difference between Kerr and earlier classy, genteel heroines such as Joan Fontaine was that the passions sparking Kerr’s characters were often of a more overtly sexual nature. As questions of sex and censorship manifested themselves in the 1950s, her persona, prim only on the surface, proved ideal for suggesting the torrid side of romantic love. One of the most famous images of Kerr’s career was that of her straying wife in From Here to Eternity (1953) making love on the beach with military officer Burt Lancaster. The Proud and Profane (1956) was such a similar film (and role) that it suffered by comparison, but there are similar dimensions in other Kerr roles, such as the wife who helps an effeminate college youth prove his masculinity in Tea and Sympathy (1956) and even her nun, trapped on an island with a swarthy soldier, in Heaven Knows, Mr. Allison (1956).

In Separate Tables (1958), she played a mother-dominated spinster, proving herself to be a radiant, sincere and reliable actress. And since her appeal did not really depend upon youthful beauty, she continued impressively into 1960s films. Her work as governesses who encounter ghost-possessed charges in The Innocents (1961) and free-spirited ones in The Chalk Garden (1964) was well crafted, and she had fine moments as a gentle tourist caring for her aging grandfather in The Night of the Iguana (1964) and as a matron who encounters liberated mores in the belabored but amusing sex farce, Prudence and the Pill (1968). Kerr subsequently returned to stage work, keeping very busy in plays ranging from Candida to Long Day’s Journey Into Night (both 1977) and enjoying considerable success in London and a worldwide tour in The Day After the Fair (1972-73, 1979). Variable health problems interfered with some of her work, but her presence was always cherished, and she made a successful one-shot return to films as a repressed widow in The Assam Garden (1985). One of the actresses most nominated for an Academy Award® without ever winning (six times), Kerr was given an honorary Oscar at the 1993 ceremonies. Seven years later, it was confirmed that she was suffering with Parkinson’s disease and had been confined to a wheelchair.

We Love Retail Therapy


Great Gifts
For Us…or ….

Just in time for Halloween, ideal for Pirate fans and anyone who loves the ultra-cool styling of skull-and-crossbones. Check out these great items.

Leather Croc Handbag $300

* 14 x 4-1/2 x 12-1/2 inches
* available in Black, Red or White
* rhinestone pirate skull & crossbones
* matching belt & wallet available

Sharon Osbourne has this in black and loves it! (We would, too)

A long time motorcycle enthusiast, Jessica Chase of Buzz Saw Los Angeles blends the lifestyle of riding, rock-n-roll, trend icons and pop culture into fashionable accessories and apparel for women, teens, children and pets. Jessica is inspired by lifestyles that are edgy, sexy and dominant.


www.buzzsawla.com

To put in that cool pocketbook....

Bedazzled™ by Yumi T™ is the latest line of creation from artist and Designer Yumi Takahashi. Extravagantly decorated card case and other handcrafted accessories.Skull & Crossbones Business Card Case $45 www.bedazzledyumit.com

Martin Sheen's Latest Venture

Wonder what the West Wing star's up to?....

Years ago, back in BeansTalk salad days, we were acquainted with Martin Sheen's son Ramon. We spent several afternoons at the Sheen's Point Dume home. Back then, BeansTalk loved babies and other people's children (now, not so much -- none can compare to our own).

One afternoon, the-then Paula Profit (now Speert, keep reading) brought over Sheen's tiny grandbaby, Cassandra over to be babysat. Guess who got to help? Yup. Paula was Charlie's high-school girlfriend. She had Cassie at 17, and Martin and Janet (Martin's wife) set Paula up with a home and help. Now Cassandra Estevez (that's Sheen's real name...btw, did you know that Charlie's real name is Carlos Estevez?) is a grown business woman who keep a low-profile.

Jackson Clay, Inc. is a Southern California upscale-casual boy’s apparel company. The Jackson Clay brand is distinguished by the right mix of classic and trendy looks that give the clothes longevity. The collections are as chic as Malibu and as rugged as the surrounding mountains. The styles are like the beaches; cool, crisp, and clean. All Jackson Clay details and silhouettes speak of the Southern CA “good life” and offer the same richness.

Speert says, "“I think Martin and Janet [company investors] were attracted to the family-aspect of Jackson Clay. We (she and co creator Paige Snear Apar) are two real moms who had a good idea, and with the love and support of family we were able to build something we are proud of." The photo of Sheen shows him with creators Paula and Paige.

Sold at E-tailers and retailers nationwide. www.JacksonClay.com

So Tired That...

We Love Samantha Bee

In a Daily Show segment Wednesday night, on the most rampant celebrity disease, exhaustion, Bee bemoans, "They are so exhausted they forget to put their underwear!"

The Saddest Story This Week

Sen. Larry Craig himself brought up his voting record and said of homosexuality, "I don't agree with the lifestyle. And I've said so by my votes over the years and by my expressions. Have I viewed it as awful? I viewed it as a lifestyle I don't agree with." in his one-hour sit-down interview with Matt Lauer.

Also from the show (narration) For 25 years, there have been rumors that Craig, a conservative Republican, was a closeted homosexual.

Joely Richardson of FX's Nip/Tuck (which returns next month), attended the Cartier event in London tonight. Skinny much? She resembles Portia de Rossi at her most painfully thin. Ironically, de Rossi plays her lesbian lover in the FX series' newest season.

Foundation 101
Lessons from the Professionals at Make Up For Ever

From the BeansTalk confessional: We just turned forty. There it is. It’s out there.
With that said, we now have to think about foundations that are compatible with skin that has seen a little too much sun, and which is starting to show a few irregularities such as pigment loss and fine lines. Alas…

The good news is that we have a new favorite make up tool that allows us to seemingly “airbrush” away complexion problems and restore our youthful appearance: BeansTalk has recently added the Make Up Forever Face and Body Liquid Make Up to our morning routine. Read on.

Nothing is harder than selecting the correct foundation for your skin. So how can you know which one is right to perfect your complexion? Dany Sanz, creator of Make Up For Ever, breaks down the basics:

Lesson 1: Formula
Depending on your skin type (dry, oily, normal) you’ll want a formula with a texture that will compliment it. Dry skin types should look for hydrating ingredients such as high water content or glycerine. Oily skin types should look for oil free formulas. Mature skin types may want to look for added benefits in their foundation such as firming ingredients or light reflecting properties to make skin appear youthful.

Lesson 2: Coverage
The level of coverage desired from a foundation will point you in a specific direction. Most packaging implies the coverage intended. For flawless skin, sheer coverage will even out overall tone. Skin with more tonal irregularities will benefit from a medium coverage formula. Severe skin conditions, such as breakouts, scars, redness and age spots, will require full coverage.

Lesson 3: Color
Make sure you test product on your skin, as the color in the bottle may be misleading. Be sure to test the shade along the jawline in order to achieve a true match, not on the back of your hands or your arms. Skin tones usually fall into two categories: yellow undertones (think olive-y) or red undertones (think pinky or ruddy). Be sure that your foundation undertones match your skin undertones.

Lesson 4: Finish
The finish of your foundation can vary from matte to natural to dewy. Choose which ever you like best.

Heeding Dany Sanz' (pictured right) advice led us to choose the Face & Body Liquid Make Up (pictured above), one of the company's most popular products, but certain;y not their only foundation tool. They have a marvelous selectionof liquid, matte, and pressed powder foundations. The Face & Body Liquid Make Up is sheer and natural-looking. It sets without "settling" into fine lines. In addition, BeansTalk can usually tell how a foundation performs by the photograph test. We checked out our face in a digital flash photo after using the product and were happy to see that that we did not look "made up". And, our skin did not look mismatched or reflect light unnaturally.

Product Specifications
Texture: lightweight, waterproof gel (formula is 80% water)
Color: Available in 13 shades
Coverage: sheer, but build-able to medium
Finish: Natural Satin
Content: 50 ml

Retail price: $38.00
Check it out at: Sephora or http://www.makeupforever.com/

Hands-Free Happy

We can multi-task like crazy at home and at work, but not when we're driving (although we admit to make-up application each morning on the way to the office -- our day job).

In addition to a weird carpal tunnel reaction of hand numbing, we just can't drive and chat on our cel. We hate that. We would rather go talkless than have to hold our cel. For awhile we had the Motorola HF820 Easy-Install Bluetooth Car Kit (seen below) and it seemed to work fine, but was very touchy -- sometimes it wouldn't turn off, sometimes it wouldn't turn on -- and we got a few complaints about the sound quality from callers.

Today, we're trying out our new device (seen above) and so far, so good, everything seems to be working according to plan. We'll keep you posted on the progress and the quality. Our CFO got a Blueant wireless bluetooth and it seems to have crapped out yesterday morning; he's only been using it for a couple of weeks at the most.

Black Supertooth Light Compact Bluetooth Speakerphone

BLUEANT Part Number: 093744

World class Digital Sound Processor (DSP) for noise and echo cancellation

Fully portable, sleek design with zero installation required

Full duplex and high performance speaker

Mounts on sun visor using a 2-sided magnetic clip

Easily switch sides when moving sun visor up or down

Sliding microphone shaft retracts when not in use

Supports voice dials activation, redial and call reject

Supports multi-pairing to 5 devices

Rechargeable Li-poly battery

Up to 15 hours talk time or 800 hours/33 days standby

Compliant with Bluetooth v1.2 devices

Includes bonus vent mounted phone holder, AC and DC charger and visor clip

Shipping Availability: Usually ships in 2 - 3 business days

The "old" speakerphone, by Motorola.

Double-Click above for the full image www.goldndulcinea.com

Sparkly Julia Roberts

Julia Roberts sparkled in Platinum jewelry by Cathy Waterman at the “22nd Annual American Cinematheque Award” event in Los Angeles on October 12th. Roberts selected a Platinum and diamond cuff bracelet. Roberts smiles after accepting the 22nd American Cinematheque Award in Beverly Hills, California October 12, 2007. (Mario Anzuoni/Reuters)

Try It On For Size

No, Really, Show Us What You Think 6" Is....

Before we begin this piece it’s important that we state as clearly as we can that we are in no way addressing or placing judgment on anyone’s size. It is expressly a commentary on the size of clothing (mostly jeans) women seem to be buying.

We’ve all heard about how in certain lines of clothing a 12 is actually a 14, but it sounds so much better for the consumer to try on, and turn over their hard-earned cash for a smaller size than one they’re embarrassed of, going home and immediately cutting out the tags, just in case someone might see their size.

But lately, we have found ourselves furrowing our brows and wondering (occasionally, and unintentionally, outloud) did they look in a mirror when they got dressed, or more importantly, when they first tried their outfit on – at the store?

We are just as guilty as the next person in thinking that well, we used to wear this in a size…only to discover we were oh, so underestimating our true size. But our particular saving grace is that we nearly always choose comfort over fashion. To illustrate this, it’s simplest to say that most of our dresses could double as nightgowns. For this reason, we’re able to (hopefully) skirt what seems to be a scarily growing trend – buying clothing two sizes too small (paraphrasing from the Grinch narrator).

......

And most interested observers are also going to be highly critical. Take Britney Spears. She shows up on MTV, two children, a broken marriage and five years after her watershed snake-wielding dance, looking less fit and everyone is in an uproar. By no means is she fat, heavy, overweight, chubby or any other description. What was so wrong – her choice of an outfit! The bottoms were tight – tight enough to give her the appearance of love handles. Had she just worn something less revealing and her new I-love-Taco Bell-and-have-had-two-children body, no one would have been the wiser.

Less is actually more here. The less you wear, the more you show and the more you look larger and not nearly as fit than you probably already are.

What is most fascinating is that the majority of the women we see sporting overly form fitted clothing are not necessarily overweight. They’re just not buying clothes that fit – they may suffer from the delusion that super snug is sexy, not realizing that tweaks to size, style, fit and fashion can be flattering.

But for now, enough are adhering to the “tight is right” (we just made that up) adage.

It’s almost rivaling the bad-drivers-are-always-on-a-hand-held-cel-phone. We are going to try to adhere to our own advice, and hope you will, too.

The Return of The Spice Girls

Capitol Music Group has partnered with lingerie and beauty retailer Victoria’s Secret for the exclusive release of the new CD from the Spice Girls. The CD version of Spice Girls: Greatest Hits, which features 13 of the best-selling British girl-group’s singles, will be available for purchase only in Victoria’s Secret retail stores and on the company’s website in the US beginning November 13th, 2007, just a few weeks before the Spice Girls begin their sold out world-wide reunion tour on Dec. 2nd.

Customers can also pre-order the album for a period of 24 hours between midnight on October 17th and midnight on October 18th at www.victoriassecret.com. Through the Spice Girls partnership with Victoria’s Secret, the group will make their reunion television debut at this year’s Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, airing December 4th at 10/9c on CBS.



"The quality and enduring popularity of the Spice Girls hits have proved that their appeal crosses generations, as well as stretching around the world. The tickets for the North American tour sold out in a few seconds and we are adding more dates. I am delighted to be working with Victoria’s Secret on the Greatest Hits album and welcome their innovative approach to marketing," said Simon Fuller, CEO / Founder of 19 Entertainment, which manages the Spice Girls.



In addition to 13 of the Girls smash hits, such as “Wannabe” and “Say You’ll Be There,” Spice Girls: Greatest Hits contains two brand-new songs, “Voodoo,” and the Girls’ upcoming single “Headlines (Friendship Never Ends),” their first new single since 2000’s double A-side “Holler / Let Love Lead the Way.” As a special bonus, the CD available at Victoria's Secret also includes 3 downloadable bonus remixes: “Wannabe,” “2 Become 1,” and “Spice Up Your Life.” Capitol Music Group will also release a CD/DVD deluxe edition, which includes a DVD featuring all of the Spice Girls promotional videos, and a gift box version, which includes the aforementioned CD and DVD, a karaoke disc, and a gift bracelet on January 15th, 2008. Spice Girls: Greatest Hits will be available nationwide on January 15th. Until then, the CD version that includes 3 downloadable bonus remixes will be available exclusively at Victoria’s Secret in the US.



The CD will hit Victoria’s Secret less than three weeks before the Spice Girls — which is Victoria Beckham, Mel B., Emma Bunton, Melanie C., and Geri Halliwell — hit the road for their hotly anticipated sold out reunion tour, launching December 2nd in Vancouver. The initial announcement for the tour, which makes US stops in Los Angeles, San José, and Las Vegas, drew 3 million fans to the band’s official website, www.thespicegirls.com, for the chance to purchase tickets. Tickets for the London shows sold out in 38 seconds. Tickets for Vancouver, San José, Los Angeles and Las Vegas also sold out through online registrations. The unbelievable demand from fans has caused the Spice Girls to rearrange their North American tour dates which includes the previously announced New York City date. Details about that show and possible additions will be announced soon (confirmed North American dates below). The Spice Girls reunion tour is being created/directed by acclaimed director/choreographer Jamie King who is responsible for Madonna’s last three tours and Christina Aguilera’s recent “Back to Basics” tour.



The Spice Girls juggernaut was first unleashed upon the world in 1996 when the group, known to their legions of fans as Posh (Victoria), Scary (Mel B.), Baby (Emma), Sporty (Melanie C.), and Ginger (Geri), released the single “Wannabe” from their self-titled debut album. The song, which hit Number One in the UK and 30 other countries, became the highest debut ever on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart by a British band, beating out the Beatles’ “I Want To Hold Your Hand.” The group’s second album, Spiceworld, sold more than 10 million copies and spawned four massive singles, including “Spice Up Your Life,” as well as a feature film of the same name. After the departure of Geri Halliwell, Spice Girls released its third album, 2000’s Forever, before the group disbanded in 2001 to pursue solo careers. Overall, Spice Girls have sold more than 55 million albums around the world.



The CD track-listing for Spice Girls: Greatest Hits is as follows:



“Wannabe” / “Say You'll Be There” / “2 Become 1” / “Mama” / “Who Do You Think You Are” / “Move Over” / “Spice Up Your Life” / “Too Much” / “Stop” / “Viva Forever” / “Let Love Lead The Way” / “Holler” / “Headlines (Friendship Never Ends)” / “Voodoo” / “Goodbye”



For more information, please visit: www.thespicegirls.com