Tuesday, September 30, 2008



Katy Perry is a Doll

After spending spring and summer re-writing the record books month after month with the seven-week Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 "I Kissed A Girl," the follow-up single "Hot N Cold," now bulleted at No. 13 nationally, and the RIAA gold-certified album One Of The Boys, Capitol Records pop/rock phenom Katy Perry takes one more dive into pop culture iconography with a doll created in her likeness. The Katy Perry doll can be found on Integrity Toys' website at http://www.integritytoys.com/katyperry.php.

Perry collaborated with fashion designer Jason Wu in the creation of the 12 inch-tall doll, which will be sold worldwide in a limited edition retailing for $49.99 from Integrity Toys, where Wu also serves as creative director for Integrity's high-end fashion doll lines. This miniaturized version of Katy will be immediately recognizable as a signature fashion look, with her belted gold mini dress with accordion-pleated skirt, inspired by the wildly popular and 5 times MTV VMA nominated "I Kissed A Girl" video clip.

The transformation of Perry into a doll is a fitting gesture to her earliest fans who saw her guest-starring with several dolls from Integrity's Fashion Royalty® line in the ironic and hilarious video "Ur So Gay," and streamed it over 1.3 million times, laughing all the way. "We are very excited to be working with Katy again," Wu said. "Her fresh attitude, unique style and fun approach to music make her a perfect candidate to become a fashion doll."

The Platinum Guild's Annual Emmy Preview -- And BeansTalk Was There


Photos from the Platinum Guild’s Emmy Preview Suite: Michael O’Connor and Phyllis Smith (who plays Phyllis Smith from NBC’s “The Office,” a BeansTalk favorite) The clutch designed by Cate Adair with the Segelson jewelry Raise the Bar and Malcolm in the Middle Star Jane Kaczmarek and Michel Schneider from "Clothes Off Our Back" charity.

BeansTalk photos by Topacio Althaus


The Emmys Heat Up


By Topacio Althaus


Hosted by celebrity hair stylist, Patrick Melville (seen in image) and co sponsored by FHI Heat hair tools, the Emmy Beauty Villa at Sunset was a-buzz with top of the line products in preparation for the Emmys. Among the many items seen were hair products by Belegenza, make-up by Napoleon Perdis, and even (needle phobes need not finish this sentence) acupuncture sessions for Emmy preparers.

BeansTalk got a first hand look at what it takes to get red carpet ready with the makeup line, Napoleon Perdis. With their flawless makeup coverage and anti shine foundation, Perdis was a needed upgrade for this BeansTalk reporter's regular Cover Girl make-up coverage. For you ladies who would like to keep your face shine free all day, the Camera Finish Powder Foundation is the perfect treatment. The 3-in-1 foundation that conceals, covers and sets, left this BeansTalk reporter with a radiant and even skin tone (without shine) that would leave us confident enough amidst thousands of flashing paparazzi cameras.

Perdis rep also introduced BeansTalk to their most popular product, Auto Pilot Eye Spy Cream & Primer. This ultimate eye primer proved to us that, “Not to prime is a crime”, with its chamomile extract and Vitamin E infused treatment the primer provide s a makeup base for delicate and age sensitive skin. This is a definite hot item for Emmy season, and also a Big BeansTalk Bargain at a market price of $15 dollars.

BeansTalk also got a one on one interview with Rick Wellman, the color director for the Patrick Melville Salon. Wellman, who has worked on celebs like Petra Nemcova, tells us about his earth-friendly techniques and the products he uses for his star customers. For dying processes, Wellman uses 100 % biodegradable cotton strips instead of aluminum foil and the eco friendly hair care products BeansTalk was wowed by, Belegenza.

Recently making the Eco-Friendly Hair Care Top 10 list for their food-grade organic ingredients, Belegenza did wonders for BeansTalk reporter's unbrushed, damaged, and over sprayed hair. BeansTalk walked away with their Illustrious Shampoo & Cleanser, Dramatic Daily Volumizing Conditioner and Romance Deep Conditioning Treatment all of which left our hair feeling healthy, fresh and de-virginized.

We were especially impressed with Belegenza’s Romance Deep Conditioning Treatment, which acted as a lip-gloss for our hair by moisturizing and enhancing color. Our hair is officially obsessed!! Also, their products are all silicone free and mineral oil free with food based ingredients natural enough to eat (not recommended). Not only do they omit chemical culprits, but Belegenzia reduces the cost of shipping and fuel usage by not adding water weight to their products.

If you are unsure about the downright brilliance of their products, visit www.belegenza.com for a Shampoo and Conditioner sample for only $4.50. (caution: after using Belegenza, the consumer might be unwilling to use other hair products!)

FHI Heat is also jumping onto the green wagon with their environmentally friendly hairdryers. A FHI heat rep gave BeansTalk the 411 on their FHI Heat hairdryer saying,, “The dryers uses 1800 Watts of energy but gives off 2100 Watts”. We say, “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for greenkind.”

Used by Patrick Melville in his New York based hair salon, BeansTalk witnessed first hand how FHI Heat is upping the ante with their state of the art products. FHI Heats impressive Technique G2 flat irons, was the perfect remedy for an undisclosed participants bland hairstyle. After a thorough wa sh, and a full hair blown treatment with one of FHI’s Nano Hair Dryers , Beanstalk was “blown” away with the sheer advancement of the product. Not only did it transform the participants’ hair from sopping wet to workably damp in minutes, but the final product left the hair looking smooth and shiny. Add on the styling effects of their flat irons and you have got yourself the perfect combination for desirable hair.

BeansTalk reporter Topacio Althaus was our 2008 Emmy reporter and will continue as a contributor.

Monday, September 29, 2008


Fischer Hosts Fur Ball


Jenna Fischer wore David Meister’s yellow silk strapless cocktail dress with tiered hem to Kitten Rescue’s 1st Annual Fur Ball. Fischer hosted the event. The event was held to celebrate 10 years for the non-profit Kitten Rescue and the more than 9,000 lives they’ve helped save. Celebrity guests included Emily Deschanel (Bones), Wendi McLendon-Covey (Reno 911), Daniela Sea (The L Word) and Kent King (General Hospital).














Posing in their Weitzmans


Celebs step out in Stuart Weitzman’s glamorous shoes. Ashley Tisdale attends the 60th Primetime Creative Arts Emmys in SW’s champagne satin BOWENA platforms. Queen Latifah attends the Toronto Film Festival in SW’s violet anaconda VOGUE platforms




















Close ups of Queen Latifah (left) and Ashley Tisdale (right) wearing Stuart Weitzmans.

Sunday, September 28, 2008



Zavida: Beautiful & Gives Back

Founded by two former Starbucks executives, Zavida sells handmade semi-precious gemstone jewelry from around the world and gives back 25% of the profits to struggling regions where its jewelry and gemstones originate.

Zavida pieces are all available online at a wide variety of prices points, from less than $100 to several thousand for more ornate offerings. Through its socially-conscious business model, Zavida puts attainable treasures in the hands of clients who can make a personal fashion statement by wearing striking gemstone jewelry while contributing to a greater good. zavidagemstones.com

Friday, September 26, 2008










Heaven’s Gate Cult: What Happened


We remember this incident very clearly. We were in Carmel, Calif. On a road trip. Creepy. Now National Geographic examines what really happened.

The Final Report: Heaven's Gate
Monday, September 29, at 10:00 PM ET/PT(World Premiere) TV-14
On March 26, 1997, San Diego police discovered 39 bodies in an affluent neighborhood home. Each victim was found lying neatly in bed next to a packed duffle bag — dressed in black with a triangular patch on each sleeve that read “Heavens-Gate Away Team.” The Final Report goes behind the scenes of one of the largest mass suicides committed on U.S. soil to investigate some of the key questions involved in the case. Why did they take poison, what did they believe, and how did cult leaders recruit hundreds of believers? Hear the actual 911 call from an anonymous tipper, testimony from police officers central to the investigation and statements from former cult and family members who lost loved ones in this tragic event. Then watch eerie footage shot by cult members, including one of the group leaders, of their last days.

Thursday, September 25, 2008

BeansTalk's Handbag of the Week


Prada Cervo Lux Lace Print Satchel

# Lace-printed leather makes for a lovely handheld bag. Golden hardware
# Signature luggage tag
# Metal logo at center front
# Golden lock accent
# Double top handles, 5" drop
# Top zip closure
# Standing feet
# One inside back wall zip pocket
# Leather lining
# 13"W X 10"H X 6"D
# Made in Italy
DUE TO HIGH DEMAND, A CUSTOMER MAY ORDER NO MORE THAN THREE UNITS OF THIS ITEM EVERY THIRTY DAYS.

$2,290.00 www.saksfifthavenue.com

Wednesday, September 24, 2008



Skinny Water: We Want Some

Skinny Water! Skinny Water is the size zero version of the other flavored/”enhanced” water drinks in the market—a zero calorie, zero sugar, zero sodium, and zero preservative water that helps accelerate weight loss.

The Skinny Water lineup features five intense flavors, including Acai Grape Blueberry (Hi-Energy), Raspberry Pomegranate (Crave Control), Goji Fruit Punch (Shape), Passion Fruit Lemonade (Total-V), and Peach Mango Mandarin (XXX-Detox). Every bottle of Skinny Water, say the reps, has clinically proven ingredients to boost metabolism and control appetite.

Skinny Water is the first functional water in the market that contains the three key ingredients Super CitriMax, ChromeMate, and EGCG (a green tea extract), which have been clinically proven to aid in weight loss.

Skinny Water retails for $1.99 per bottle and are available all over the country. For a complete list of retailers go to www.skinnywater.com.

Tuesday, September 23, 2008


New Docs on BBC America in October

BBC AMERICA Reveals continues with all-new, U.S. premiere documentaries, every Wednesday in October.

MY FAKE BABY – U.S. PREMIERE

Dolls may seem to be just a children's plaything, but a closer look reveals much more. This documentary delves into a small niche of adult women who collect and care for shockingly life-like baby dolls that cost hundreds of dollars. Known as “reborns,” some of these dolls have beating hearts and others have tiny veins. They are treated like real babies – with walks in the park, cuddles and regular diaper changes. The documentary follows several women including one who travels to Washington D.C. to pick up the fifth addition to her family of life-like dolls.

My Fake Baby premieres Wednesday, October 1, 9:00 p.m. ET/PT

SEX CHANGE SOLDIER – U.S. PREMIERE

Ian, a Captain of the Parachute Regiment and a highly decorated officer in the British Army, has served in Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Afghanistan and Iraq. Over the years, he’s fought to suppress his feminine side, seeking out the toughest assignments to prove his manliness. But in 2007, Ian became the first officer in the history of the Armed Forces to undergo a sex-change operation. Sex Change Soldier documents Ian’s transgender journey to become Jan, revealing an intimate and raw portrait of a remarkable year, as the alpha-male soldier transforms into an ultra-feminine woman.

Sex Change Soldier premieres Wednesday, October 8, 9:00 p.m. ET/PT

SUGAR MUMMIES – U.S. PREMIERE

With a quarter of married British women hitched to younger men, Sugar Mummies asks the questions - what's in it for the younger men? Are they just looking for a temporary sugar mummy or are they looking for love? The documentary follows four couples including Norma, 60, and her husband Chris, 28, who have been together for ten years but their age gap has alienated them from society and now only have each other for company.

Sugar Mummies premieres Wednesday, October 15, 9:00 p.m. ET/PT

BROTHERS AND SISTERS IN LOVE – U.S. PREMIERE

Brothers and Sisters in Love looks at the taboo of incest and how it is commonly perceived in modern society. It specifically investigates the effects of 'Genetic Sexual Attraction' - a phenomenon some experts believe is experienced by up to 50% of adoptees when they first meet their blood relatives. One couple featured, Susan and Patrick, were irresistibly drawn to one another and eventually began a love affair which has scandalized Germany and made headlines across the world. In another instance, Ron, a happily married man of 40 years, was immediately consumed by disturbing emotions for his sister whom he found in Bermuda after being separated for sixty years. While his feelings went far beyond brotherly love, what finally saved them and his marriage was that his sister did not reciprocate his feelings.

Brothers and Sisters in Love premieres Wednesday, October 22, 9:00 p.m. ET/PT

BRITAIN’S YOUNGEST GRANNIES – U.S. PREMIERE

With more women giving birth in their teens, Britain is witnessing the emergence of a new kind of glamorous 30-something grandma. In Britain’s Youngest Grannies, women from across the UK talk about whether it's a nightmare to see their daughter follow in their footsteps and become a teen mum or a blessing to have a new baby in the family while there’s youth and energy to enjoy the new arrival.

Britain’s Youngest Grannies premieres Wednesday, October 29, 9:00 p.m. ET/PT

Monday, September 22, 2008


BeansTalk On The Platinum Guild’s Jewelry Preview

by Topacio Althaus

BeansTalk 60th Annual Emmy Correspondent


It’s that time of year again folks! The red carpet is rolled out and celebrities are donning the latest bling for the 60th Primetime Emmy Awards. And yes, BeansTalk was there to get behind the scene scoop on what’s expected from this year’s Emmy’s and what the latest trends are.

Renowned jewelry expert Michael O’ Connor was our inside man at The Platinum Guild’s Academy Awards Red Carpet Jewelry Preview at a luxury hotel penthouse suite in Beverly Hills.

BeansTalk got a major kick out of gawking at the Platinum encrusted necklaces, earrings, bracelets, cufflinks, broaches. Finally, we jumped right into our interview with Mr. O’Connor.

Here is what we found out:

TA: What are the biggest trends you’ll see this year?

MO: The biggest trends you will find on the red carpet this year are definitely layered bracelets, gemstones and (what a surprise) Platinum. Pearls are also in, especially if you mix them with the red, fusia, and lavender gemstones.

TA: Who are the main jewelry designers previewed here today?

MO: Well we have Guhran with their very sheek look, which is all hand done. We also have vintage Siegelson, Tache, Pierre Kunz, Julia Behrends, and Erica Courtney. It’s all about the glamour of Hollywood. Here, at the Platinum Guild celebrities have the opportunity to look at world-class jewelry from 30 of the worlds’ tops celebrity Jewelers.

TA: And, what about the men? We have all these amazing necklaces and bracelets for women, are the men going to get in on any of the bling action?


MO: For the men, we have Tycoon watches and also tie bands. People like Sean Patrick Thomas (who happened to be leaving the Preview in the middle of our interview) and Neil Patrick Harris (whats’ with all the Patricks?) might be seen wearing the new tie band by Superfit. The Tycoon watches (which Michael was happened to be wearing) are also going to be a big hit for men on the red carpet.

TA: I see a few pieces here that are very vintage, seems like they are making a comeback.

MO: Vintage jewelry has always been in. You might see pieces like this from the 1920’s with diamonds and a sapphire by Siegelson priced at $1.7 million.

TA: Also I hear there is a platinum clutch up for grabs this year, can you tell me about
that?

MO: Cate Adair, who is an Emmy nominated and award winning costume designer for Desperate Housewives, has paired with Kwiat to design this clutch. It is a one of a kind clutch valued at over $500,000 with platinum died leather and 60 carats of Kwiat diamonds, ironically to celebrate 60 years of the Emmy’s.

TA: Thank you very much Michael. This was definitely an amazing treat.

Also found at the Platinum Preview was the new Swiss skincare product by La Prairie, Cellular Cream Platinum. This rare facial cream being sold for a whopping $1000 for 1.7 ounces. Its climate reactive and pure platinum infused cream was described as being able to make your skin look younger and firmer, as well as reduce lines and wrinkles. A La Prairie rep told us, “The climate activate hydration adjusts to your own personal temperature and to the moisture and humidity in the air which provides the perfect level of moisture.”

BeansTalk also got a one-on-one interview with Jane Kaczmarek, the hard-nosed mother on Malcolm in the Middle, who discussed her Clothes Off Our Back Foundation. Kaczmarek told us, “Clothes off our back is an online auction that sell celebrity clothing, celebrity signed ipods, and more. All of the proceeds then go to children’s charity”. This is one cause BeansTalk’s all for!

Above Image: Topacio (Toto) Althaus is a new contributor to BeansTalk, who served as our site’s Emmy correspondent.








Platinum on the Emmy Carpet


From stackable bracelets and large statement necklaces, to stud earrings and watches, the world’s hottest television stars (women and men) sparkled in millions of dollars worth of pure Platinum bling at the 60th Primetime Emmy Awards. Jewelry and style expert Michael O’Connor notes that “we are seeing a lot of men wearing jewelry that goes beyond the traditional pair of cufflinks, including Platinum collector watches and tie accents.” O’Connor adds that “our favorite women are returning to true Hollywood glamour by accessorizing with significant pieces of jewelry including multi-layered necklaces and pendants, cuff bracelets and colorful cocktail rings.” Platinum is favored on the red carpet because it is a naturally white metal so it maximizes the brilliance of gemstones.

Celebrities including Cheryl Hines (Curb Your Enthusiasm), Marcia Cross (Desperate Housewives), Nicollette Sheridan (Desperate Housewives), Karina Smirnoff (Dancing with the Stars), Sean Patrick Thomas (Raisin in the Sun), C.S. Lee (Dexter), David Zayas (Dexter), Roma Maffia (Nip/Tuck), Carrie Preston (True Blood), Jacqueline Pinol (CSY: NY), Jane Kaczmarek (Raising the Bar), Andrea Schroder (Top Design), Mireille Enos (Big Love), Kathleen Robertson (Beverly Hills, 90210), Angela Kinsey (The Office), Kate Flannery (The Office), Phyllis Smith (The Office), Keesha Sharp (Everybody Hates Chris), Lorna Scott (True Blood), Angus T. Jones (Two and a Half Men), Creed Bratton (The Office), Leslie Baker (The Office), Bob Balaban (Recount), Kate Linder (The Young & The Restless), attended Platinum Guild International USA’s Emmy Awards Red Carpet Jewelry Preview at the Luxe Hotel on Rodeo Drive where they indulged in a complete Platinum experience that included…


* Over $40 million dollars worth of rare Platinum jewelry to wear on the red carpet from the world’s top designers including Neil Lane, Erica Courtney, Piaget, Ganjam, Franck Muller and Siegelson.
* Platinum-infused spa treatments by La Prairie with Cellular Cream Platinum Rare ($1,000 per bottle).
* A gift bag from companies including La Prairie, Aldo, Auric Blends, Crest, Dr. Tattoff, Frederick’s of Hollywood, Marquis Platinum Vitality Drink, Sunlounge Studios Tanning, Thank Dog! Bootcamp, Tide, Tucker and Xtended Beauty.
* Limited-edition Platinum iPods. Valued at $150, celebrities autographed iPods that will be available through the Clothes Off Our Back award shows website auction to support children’s charities.


In addition, Emmy-nominated costume designer Cate Adair of “Desperate Housewives” designed a one-of-a-kind Platinum handbag using Kwiat Diamonds. With 60-carats of diamonds celebrating 60 years at the Emmys and valued at $500,000, this is the most Platinum and diamond intensive handbag ever produced. Entertainment Tonight host Mary Hart accessorized with this gorgeous handbag on the red carpet.

Following is a list of Platinum baubles that celebrities wore on the red carpet and at parties (retail prices are provided when available):


* Teri Hatcher: Platinum bracelet, earrings and cocktail ring by Neil Lane.
* Kate Walsh: Platinum bracelet with 100-carats of diamonds and sapphires, Platinum ring with a 25-carat black diamond, and a pair of Platinum and 25-carat drop earrings by Neil Lane ($1 million).
* Christina Applegate: Platinum jewelry by Lorraine Schwartz.
* Michelle Pfeiffer: Platinum and 50-carat diamond earrings, a bracelet and a cocktail ring by Neil Lane.
* Kyra Sedgwick: Platinum earrings and pinkie ring by Fred Leighton.
* Lauren Conrad: Platinum bracelet and brooch by Hearts on Fire (total $415,000).
* Heidi Klum: Platinum jewelry by Lorraine Schwartz.
* Holly Hunter: Platinum earrings by Fred Leighton.
* Debra Messing: Platinum ring by Fred Leighton.
* Hayden Panettiere: Platinum earrings and stacked bracelets by Fred Leighton.
* Jennifer Morrison: Platinum jewelry by Lorraine Schwartz.
* Cynthia Nixon: Platinum earrings, 2 bracelets and cocktail ring by Fred Leighton.
* January Jones: Platinum jewelry by Lorraine Schwartz.
* Emilie de Ravine: Platinum bracelet by Stephen Russell ($130,000).
* Julie Benz: Platinum earrings by Neil Lane and 2 bracelets by Stephen Russell (total over $300,000).
* Glenn Close: Platinum earrings and bracelet by Fred Leighton.
* Karina Smirnoff: Platinum ring and earrings by Erica Courtney (total $70,000).
* Lisa Edelstein: Platinum stud earrings and cocktail ring by Erica Courtney, and a Platinum bracelet by Kwiat (over $150,000).
* Catherine Keener: Platinum earrings and bracelet by Neil Lane.
* Candace Bergen: Platinum jewelry by Cathy Waterman.
* Olivia Wilde: Platinum cocktail ring and earrings by Kwiat (over $300,000).
* Anastasia Griffith: Platinum cocktail ring, earrings and bracelet by Kwiat (over $250,000).
* Sarah Paulson: Platinum earrings and cocktail ring by Kwiat.
* Laura Linney: Platinum jewelry by Cathy Waterman.
* Rose Byrne: Platinum necklace and chains by Fred Leighton.
* Mark Wahlberg: Platinum cufflinks and shirt studs by Neil Lane.
* Michael Emerson: Platinum lapel pin and cufflinks by Erica Courtney ($12,000).
* Sean Patrick Thomas: Platinum watch by Pierre Kunz and tie accent by Superfit (total $135,000).
* C.S. Lee: Platinum stud earrings by Kwiat ($15,000).
* Joely Fisher: Platinum earrings, bracelet and cocktail ring by Neil Lane.
* Jennie Garth: Platinum earrings and bracelets by Erica Courtney.
* Carrie Preston: Platinum earrings and necklace by Erica Courtney (over $200,000).
* Roma Maffia: Platinum earrings by Oscar Heyman and watch by Franck Muller (total $150,000).
* Kathleen Robertson: 2 Platinum cuffs by Chad Allison and earrings by Siegelson (total $600,000).
* Melora Hardin: Platinum cocktail ring, stud earrings and brooches used as hair accessories by Kwiat ($275,000).
* Mireille Enos: Platinum necklace by Kirk Kara and earrings by Erica Courtney (total $32,000).
* Gina Ravera: Platinum earrings, cocktail rings and necklace by Erica Courtney.
* Jamie Bergman: Platinum cocktail rings and earrings by Erica Courtney.
* Tichina Arnold: Platinum earrings and cocktail rings by Erica Courtney.
* Kathy Joosten: Platinum earrings by Erica Courtney.
* Kate Linder: Platinum earrings and bracelet by Ganjam, and a cocktail ring by Kirk Kara (total $45,000).
* Marin Hinkle: Platinum earrings and rings by Erica Courtney.
* Lorna Scott: Platinum bangles and earrings by Erica Courtney (total $80,000).
* Angus T. Jones: Platinum cufflinks by Neil Lane.
* Rick Schroder: Platinum cufflinks by Taché ($6,000).
* Andrea Schroder: Platinum bracelet by Taché ($18,000).
* Lisa Cryer: Platinum bracelet and earrings by Neil Lane.
* Kathy Griffin: Platinum jewelry by Erica Courtney.
* Paula Patton: Platinum earrings by Neil Lane.
* Kara DioGuardi: 3 Platinum bracelets, earrings and a cocktail ring by Neil Lane.
* Tamara Mellon: Platinum jewelry by Lorraine Schwartz.
* Mary Hart: Platinum and diamond clutch designed by Cate Adair using Kwiat diamonds ($500,000).
* Terri Seymour: Platinum earrings and cocktail ring by Neil Lane.
* Nancy O’Dell: Platinum earrings by Neil Lane, and 3 cuffs by Chad Allison (total $120,000).
* Shaun Robinson: Platinum earrings by Stephen Russell ($150,000).
* Thea Andrews: Vintage Platinum necklace, earrings and bracelet by Bulgari that is part of the Siegelson collection (total $750,000).
* Jann Carl: Platinum earrings by Neil Lane and two bracelets by Gurhan (total over $80,000).
* Ashlan Gorse: Platinum bib necklace by Siegelson and cocktail ring by Ashok Sancheti (total $830,000).
* Kristin dos Santos: Platinum earrings by Ashok Sancheti ($150,000) and pendant by Erica Courtney.
* Madison Michelle: Platinum earrings and bracelets by Ashok Sancheti (total $150,000).
* Nikki Boyer: Platinum earrings by Neil Lane and cocktail ring by Jewelry by Gail (total $75,000).
* Michelle Beadle: Platinum cuff by Gurhan, ring by Kirk Kara, and earrings by Siegelson (total $416,000).
* Billy Bush: Platinum watch by Pierre Kunz ($85,000).
* Chris Harrison: Platinum watch by Pierre Kunz ($100,000).
* Kate Flannery: Platinum earrings, bracelet and cocktail rings by Erica Courtney ($77,000).
* Phyllis Smith: Platinum bracelet by Gumuchian and earrings by Ashok Sancheti (total $70,000).
* Leslie Baker: Platinum watch by Piaget, lapel pin by Oscar Heyman and ring by Tycoon (total $60,000).
* Bob Balaban: Platinum watch by Pierre Kunz and cufflinks by Neil Lane (total $275,000).
* Bill Conti: Platinum tie accent by Superfit ($6,000).
* Cate Adair: Platinum earrings by Ganjam (over $6,000).
* Katte Sackhoff: Platinum cocktail rings and earrings by Erica Courtney (total $90,000).
* Trisha Helfer: Platinum earrings and cocktail rings by Erica Courtney.
* Cheryl Cecchetto: Platinum earrings and cocktail ring Erica Courtney.
* Sean Patrick Thomas’ wife: Platinum bracelet and earrings by Neil Lane.
* Omar Epps’ wife: Platinum cuff by Chad Allison and earrings by Gumuchian.
* Bob Balaban’s daughter: Platinum earrings by Oscar Heyman and a necklace by Chad Allison (total $20,000).
* Creed Bratton’s daughter-in law: Platinum earrings by Ashok Sancheti ($24,000).
* Steven Colbert’s wife, Evelyn: Platinum bracelet and earrings by Kwiat.


Above Image: Stephen Colbert arrives for the 60th Primetime Emmy Awards with his wife, Evelyn, left, and daughter Madeline, Sunday, Sept. 21, 2008, at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles. Colbert is nominated for outstanding individual performance in a variety or music program for his work on 'The Colbert Report.' (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

Little Black Candle


Tuesday evening, September 16th, 2008 marked the opening reception of the month-long little black dress pop-up boutique at The Sunset, 8570 W. Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood. This event is returning to its Los Angeles home offering an expertly edited selection of fashion obsessions and inspired home décor to benefit local organizations including the The Elijah Kelley Foundation Fund, The Saban Free Clinic, Junior League and Dress for Success.

In support of little black dress’ charity initiative, DayNa Decker, has created a limited edition chandel, DayNa Decker for little black dress that will be sold exclusively at the event. DayNa Decker will create a fragrance installation at this interim location featuring the brands modern and seductive collections. The limited edition six ounce chandel™ reflects the elegance and femininity of a little black dress with embellishments of Swarovski™ crystals. The fragrance choice is Haute Couture, an alluring blend of litchi, freesia, magnolia, raspberry, tonka and teak essence. The installation will also carry DayNa Decker’s full line of EcoCoutureTM home ambiance products including their Luminesse Sculptures, Botanika, Flora, and Couture collections as well as Conceptual Gift Boxes.

DayNa Decker for little black dress will be housed in a 6,100 square foot venue on the iconic Sunset Boulevard until October 12th. Throughout the month, the DayNa Decker collection will give all profits to little black dress to benefit the selected charities.

“Collaborating with little black dress is a fashionable and glamorous way to give to charity”, states DayNa Decker, Creative Director. “Emmy Cortes is incredible for the energy and time she has donated in raising money. She has created a brand dedicated to helping others.”

DayNa Decker is a luxury designer of EcoCouture® lifestyle home ambiance products. Infused with her creativity, innovation and style, DayNa is known in the industry as a visionary and tastemaker. DayNa’s patented EcoWood Wick® technology and environmental consciousness accompanied with her luxurious sophisticated collections have made her a leader in the industry. DayNa attains the elusive combination of wellness, elegance and function within her designs creating a multi-sensory experience.

For information, www.daynadecker.com.

tarte Debuts at Bryant Park

This marks the first time that tarte has participated in Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Bryant Park. Partnering with beauty.com tarte was the key makeup for Charlotte Ronson's Spring 09 show, which took place at The Promenade on Saturday, September 6, 2008. Beauty.com makeup artist Tina Turnbow's inspiration for the show was: Madonna's Lucky Star meets grunge. She was able to achieve the look with tarte products such as the toolbox: brow know-how eyebrow kit, provocateur pressed mineral and 24/7 lip sheer with SPF 15 in tea time.

Additionally, Tina was the lead makeup artist for Doucette Duvall's Spring 2009 show. She created tarte's health couture look using eco-friendly products like lash hugger eco-friendly natural mascara and our new straw palette--spring greening, which features a bamboo brush, mineral shadows and vitamin-infused glosses. This palette launches in February 2009.

Sunday, September 21, 2008


2008 Emmy Winners
(from AP)

Complete list of winners at Sunday's 60th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards presented by the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences:

Drama Series: "Mad Men," AMC.

• Comedy Series: "30 Rock," NBC.

• Actor, Drama Series: Bryan Cranston, "Breaking Bad," AMC.

• Actress, Drama Series: Glenn Close, "Damages," FX.

• Actor, Comedy Series: Alec Baldwin, "30 Rock," NBC.

• Actress, Comedy Series: Tina Fey, "30 Rock," NBC.

• Reality-Competition Program: "The Amazing Race."

• Host for a Reality or Reality-Competition Program: Jeff Probst - "Survivor."

• Supporting Actor, Drama Series: Zeljko Ivanek, "Damages," FX.

• Supporting Actress, Drama Series: Dianne Wiest, "In Treatment," HBO.

• Supporting Actor, Comedy Series: Jeremy Piven, "Entourage," HBO.

• Supporting Actress, Comedy Series: Jean Smart, "Samantha Who?," ABC.

• Miniseries: "John Adams," HBO.

• Made-for-TV Movie: "Recount," HBO.

• Actor, Miniseries or Movie: Paul Giamatti, "John Adams," HBO.

• Actress, Miniseries or Movie: Laura Linney, "John Adams," HBO.

• Supporting Actor, Miniseries or Movie: Tom Wilkinson, "John Adams," HBO.

• Supporting Actress, Miniseries or Movie: Eileen Atkins, "Cranford" (Masterpiece Theatre), PBS.

• Directing for a Drama Series: "House" - "House's Head" Greg Yaitanes.

• Writing for a Drama Series: "Mad Men" - "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes" (Pilot) Matthew Weiner.

• Directing for a Comedy Series: "Pushing Daisies" - "Pie-Lette" Barry Sonnenfeld.

• Writing for a Comedy Series: "30 Rock" - "Cooter" Tina Fey.

• Variety, Music or Comedy Series: "The Daily Show With Jon Stewart."

• Individual Performance in a Variety or Music Program: Don Rickles - "Mr. Warmth: The Don Rickles Project."

• Directing for a Variety, Music or Comedy Program: "80th Annual Academy Awards" Louis J. Horvitz.

• Writing for a Variety, Music or Comedy Program: "The Colbert Report."

• Directing for a Miniseries, Movie or a Dramatic Special: "Recount" Jay Roach.

• Writing for a Miniseries, Movie or a Dramatic Special: "John Adams" Kirk Ellis.

List of winners in the creative arts categories of the 60th annual Primetime Emmy Awards from the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences:

Animated Program (for Programming Less Than One Hour): "The Simpsons: Eternal Moonshine of the Simpson Mind," Fox.

Animated Program (Programming One Hour or More): "Imaginationland" (South Park), Comedy Central.

Art Direction for a Multi-Camera Series: "How I Met Your Mother: The Yips, No Tomorrow, Miracles," CBS.

Art Direction for a Single-Camera Series: "Mad Men: Smoke Gets in Your Eyes (Pilot)," AMC.

Art Direction for a Miniseries or Movie: "John Adams," HBO.

Art Direction for a Variety, Music or Nonfiction Programming: "80th Annual Academy Awards," ABC.

Casting for a Comedy Series: "30 Rock," NBC.

Casting for a Drama Series: "Damages," FX Networks.

Casting for a Miniseries, Movie or Special: "John Adams," HBO.

Choreography: "So You Think You Can Dance: Routine: Hummingbird and Flower, "The Chairman's Waltz," Fox.

Cinematography for a Half-Hour Series: "Californication: Pilot," Showtime.

Cinematography for a One-Hour Series: "Mad Men: Smoke Gets in Your Eyes: Pilot," AMC.

Cinematography for a Miniseries or Movie: "John Adams: Independence," HBO.

Cinematography for Nonfiction Programming: "Deadliest Catch: No Mercy," Discovery Channel.

Cinematography for Reality Programming: "Carrier: Rites of Passage," PBS.

Commercial: "Swear Jar," Bud Light.

Costumes for a Series: "The Tudors: Episode 202," Showtime.

Costumes for a Miniseries, Movie or a Special: "John Adams," HBO.

Costumes for a Variety, Music or Special Program: "Frank TV: Ballpark Frank," TBS.

Interactive Media Programming (Juried Award: Possibility of more than one award): Interactive Fiction: The Heroes Digital Experience, NBC.com; Interactive Nonfiction: Disney Channel Games Digital Media Event, Disney Channel.

Directing for Nonfiction Programming: "This American Life: Escape," Showtime.

Single-Camera Picture Editing for a Drama Series: "Breaking Bad: Pilot," AMC.

Single- or Multi-Camera Picture Editing for a Comedy Series: "Pushing Daisies: Pie-Lette," ABC.

Single-Camera Picture Editing for a Miniseries or a Movie: "Recount," HBO.

Picture Editing for a Special (Single or Multi-Camera): "Justin Timberlake: FutureSex/LoveShow," HBO.

Picture Editing for Nonfiction Programming: "Autism: The Musical," HBO.

Picture Editing for Reality Programming: "Top Chef: First Impressions," Bravo.

Picture Editing of Clip Packages for Talk, Performance, Award or Reality-Competition Program (Area Award: Possibility of more than one award): "American Idol: Episode 733 (David Cook Goes Home), Fox; "Jimmy Kimmel Live: 5th Anniversary Show," ABC.

Hairstyling for a Single-Camera Series: "Mad Men: Shoot," AMC.

Hairstyling for a Miniseries or Movie: "Cranford: Masterpiece," PBS.

Hairstyling for a Multi-Camera Series or Special: "Saturday Night Live: Host, Tina Fey," NBC.

Lighting Direction (Electronic, Multi-Camera) for Variety, Music or Comedy Programming: "50th Annual Grammy Awards," CBS.

Main Title Design: "Mad Men," AMC.

Makeup for a Single-Camera Series (Non-Prosthetic): "Tracey Ullman's State of the Union: Episode 102," Showtime.

Makeup for a Multi-Camera Series or a Special (Non-Prosthetic): "Dancing With the Stars: Episode 503," ABC.

Makeup for a Miniseries, Movie or a Special (Non-Prosthetic): "Tin Man," Sci Fi Channel.

Prosthetic Makeup for a Series, Miniseries, Movie or a Special: "John Adams," HBO.

Music Composition for a Series (Original Dramatic Score): "Pushing Daisies: Pigeon," ABC.

Music Composition for a Miniseries, Movie or a Special (Original Dramatic Score): "The Company: Night 1," TNT.

M usic Direction: "Movies Rock," CBS.

Original Music and Lyrics: "Jimmy Kimmel Live," ABC.

Original Main Title Theme Music: "Pirate Master: Episode 102," CBS.

Guest Actor in a Comedy Series: Tim Conway, "30 Rock," NBC.

Guest Actor in a Drama Series: Glynn Turman, "In Treatment," HBO.

Guest Actress in a Comedy Series: Kathryn Joosten, "Desperate Housewives," ABC.

Guest Actress in a Drama Series: Cynthia Nixon, "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," NBC.

Special Class, Not Exclusively Made-for-Television Variety, Music, Comedy Event Program: "Eric Clapton Crossroads Guitar Festival Chicago (Great Performances), PBS.

Special Class, Classical Music or Dance Program: "New York City Opera: Madama Butterfly (Live from Lincoln Center), PBS.

Special Class, Short-Format Live-Action Entertainment Program: "Battlestar Galactica: Razor Featurette 4," Sci Fi Channel.com.

Special Class, Short-Format Nonfiction Program: "Great Moments from the Campaign Trail," The History Channel/VOD.

Special Class, Awards Program: "The 61st Annual Tony Awards," CBS.

Special Class, Short-Format Animated Program: "Camp Lazlo: Lazlo's First Crush," Cartoon Network.

Children's Program (Area Award: Possibility of more than one award): "Classical Baby (I'm Grown Up Now): The Poetry Show," HBO; "Nick News with Linda Ellerbee: The Untouchable Kids of India," Nickelodeon.

Nonfiction Special: "Autism: The Musical," HBO.

Nonfiction Series (Area Award: Possibility of more than one award): "American Masters," PBS; "This American Life," Showtime.

Reality Program: "Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List," Bravo.

Exceptional Merit in Nonfiction Filmmaking: "White Light/Black Rain," HBO.

Writing for Nonfiction Programming: "The War: Pride of Our Nation," PBS.

Sound Editing for a Series: "Smallville: Bizarro," CW.

Sound Editing for a Miniseries, Movie or Special: "John Adams: Don't Tread on Me," HBO.

Sound Editing for Nonfiction Programming (single or multi-camera): "The War: When Things Get Tough," PBS.

Sound Mixing for a Comedy or Drama Series (one-hour): "Lost: Meet Kevin Johnson," ABC.

Sound Mixing for a Miniseries or Movie: "John Adams: Don't Tread on Me," HBO.

Sound Mixing for a Comedy or Drama Series (half-hour) and Animation: "30 Rock: Episode 210," NBC.

Sound Mixing for a Variety or Music Series or Special: "50th Annual Grammy Awards," CBS.

Sound Mixing for Nonfiction Programming (single or multi-camera): "American Masters: Tony Bennett: The Music Never Ends," PBS.

Visual Effects for a Series: "Battlestar Galactica: He That Believeth In Me," Sci Fi Channel.

Variety, Music or Comedy Special: "Mr. Warmth: The Don Rickles Project," HBO.

Special Visual Effects for a Miniseries, Movie or Special: "John Adams: Join or Die," HBO.

Stunt Coordination: "Chuck: Chuck Versus the Undercover Lover," NBC.

Technical Direction, Camerawork, Video Control for a Series: "Dancing With the Stars: Episode 502A," ABC.

Technical Direction, Camerawork, Video Control for a Miniseries, Movie or Special: "50th Annual Grammy Awards," CBS.

Individual Achievement in Animation (possibility of more than one award): "Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends: Mondo Coco," Cartoon Network; "Creature Comforts America: Self Image, Winging It, Art," CBS.

Voice-Over Performance: Keith David, narrator, "The War: A Necessary War," PBS.

Governors Award: Preserve Our Planet Campaign, National Geographic Channel.

Above Image: Tina Fey (we LOVE her) holds her awards for outstanding lead actress in a comedy series, outstanding writing in a comedy series and outstanding comedy series for her work on '30 Rock' backstage at the trophy table at the 60th Primetime Emmy Awards Sunday, Sept. 21, 2008, in Los Angeles. Fey wore David Meister’s deep purple ribbed silk faille strapless gown and carried Mary Norton's LIZ – an amethyst satin rounded clutch with pewter and Swarovski crystal deco front.(AP Photo/Kevork Djansezian)

Friday, September 19, 2008






































TCM Gangster Marathon

Turner Classic Movies (TCM) will take viewers to the wrong side of the law with a special marathon of classic Warner Bros. gangster films designed to celebrate the Oct. 7 Warner Home Video release of the Warner Bros. Gangster Collection Vol. 4 DVD box set. The Tuesday, Oct. 21, marathon is set to begin with a presentation of Public Enemies: The Golden Age of Gangster Film, an all-new original documentary special narrated by Alec Baldwin and created especially for the Warner Home Video DVD set.

Like Universal with its atmospheric horror films and MGM with its big-budget musicals, Warner Bros. made a name for itself with its tough, gritty, sometimes amoral depictions of gangster life. They propelled such actors as Humphrey Bogart, James Cagney and Edward G. Robinson to the top of the box office charts while frequently pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable for movie audiences.

The following is the complete schedule for TCM’s look at the classic gangster films from Warner Bros.:

8 p.m. Public Enemies: The Golden Age of Gangster Film (2008) –TCM’s celebration of the Warner Bros. gangster films begins with this original documentary, narrated by Alec Baldwin, that explores the advent of the studio’s crime dramas; the rise of its biggest stars; the development of such directors as Raoul Walsh, William Wellman and Michael Curtiz; and the influence they have had on contemporary filmmakers.

9:45 p.m. The Public Enemy (1931) – This seminal Warner Bros. gangster film follows the rise and fall of a Prohibition-era thug. This is the film that put James Cagney on the map, thanks in part to a memorable scene in which he stuffs a grapefruit in the face of co-star Mae Clark. Jean Harlow also stars.

11:15 p.m. The Amazing Dr. Clitterhouse (1938) – Edward G. Robinson plays the total role of a doctor who is so fascinated with figuring out what makes lawbreakers tick, he joins a gang of jewel thieves for a closer look. Humphrey Bogart co-stars in what would be the first of his many opportunities to work with John Huston, who co-wrote the screenplay.

12:45 a.m. Invisible Stripes (1939) – In this subdued and earnest story, gangster George Raft tries to go straight while also protecting brother William Holden from the influence of mobster Humphrey Bogart. This social-conscience crime saga was adapted from a book by prison warden Lewis E. Lawes.

2:15 a.m. Larceny, Inc. (1942) – Even gangsters can be funny, as proven by this hilarious farce about a trio of ex-convicts, played by Edward G. Robinson, Broderick Crawford and Edward Brophy, using a luggage store as a front for their illegal activities. The script is based on a Broadway play by Laura Perelman and S.J. Perelman. Jane Wyman, Jack Carson and Anthony Quinn co-star, and Jackie Gleason is featured in a small role.

4 a.m. White Heat (1949) – The Warner Bros. gangster genre reached its zenith with this searing portrait of a psychopathic hoodlum played forcefully by James Cagney. Virginia Mayo stars as his neglected wife, while Edmond O’Brien plays the cop determined to put him behind bars. The fiery finale – with Cagney shouting, “Made it, Ma…top of the world!” – is one of the most memorable in movie history.

Warner Home Video’s Warner Bros. Gangster Collection Vol. 4 includes the films The Amazing Dr. Clitterhouse, Invisible Stripes and Larceny, Inc., as well as the Public Enemies documentary. In addition, it features The Little Giant (1933) and Michael Curtiz’s Kid Gallahad (1937), both with Edward G. Robinson. The latter film also stars Humphrey Bogart and Bette Davis. DVD extras in the box set include feature commentaries on all five films, rarely seen Warner Bros. shorts, vintage newsreels, theatrical trailers and classic Warner Bros. cartoons.

Three previous Gangster Collections are currently available from Warner Home Video:

· Warner Bros. Pictures Gangsters Collection Volume 1 (formerly Warner Bros. Pictures Gangsters Collection): The Public Enemy, White Heat, Angels with Dirty Faces, Little Caesar, The Petrified Forest and The Roaring Twenties.

· Warner Bros. Pictures Gangsters Collection Volume 2 (formerly Warner Bros. Pictures Tough Guys Collection): Bullets or Ballots, Each Dawn I Die, ‘G’ Men, San Quentin, A Slight Case of Murder and City for Conquest.

· Warner Bros. Pictures Gangsters Collection Volume 3: Picture Snatcher, Lady Killer, Smart Money, Black Legion, Mayor of Hell and Brother Orchid.

Thursday, September 18, 2008



Wood Also Chooses Lanvin

U.S. actress Evan Rachel Wood poses for photographers during a photo call at the Venice Film Festival September 5, 2008. She wore LANVIN’s black and sand banded washed radzimir dress. (Denis Balibouse/Reuters)

Swinton Choose Lanvin

Actress Tilda Swinton attends a gala screening of 'Burn After Reading' during the Toronto International Film Festival in Toronto on Friday, Sept. 5, 2008 in Toronto. She wore wear LANVIN’s long sleeved pearl washed silk twill blouse paired with their long black silk crepe evening skirt and double strand pearl and flower sequin chain necklace. (AP Photo/Evan Agostini)

BeansTalk's Handbag of the Week


Isabella Fiore Hot Knots Metallic "Paige" Tote

Isabella Fiore hot knots metallic "Paige" tote. Soft leather tote with double shoulder straps and silvertone hardware accents. Front and back exterior pockets. Top magnetic snap closure. Interior zip, cell phone, and additional pockets. Lined.

* 21" W x 12.5" H x 6.5" D; 10" drop from shoulders
* Imported

Color: Gunmetal Price: $695.00
www.bloomingdales.com

Wednesday, September 17, 2008


















Booted Up


Emmy Rossum puts her best “Rocker Chic” foot forward in Stuart Weitzman’s studded CARNABY platform boots during NYC fashion week.
















TV Stars Choose Pamella Roland


Actress Jenna Fischer poses at 2008 Primetime Creative Arts Awards in Los Angeles September 13, 2008. Fischer wore Pamella Roland’s black and white graphic print silk chiffon evening gown. Actress Lisa Edelstein, also at 2008 Primetime Creative Arts Awards in Los Angeles September 13, 2008, wore Pamella Roland’s black and copper beaded tulle halter gown. (Mario Anzuoni/Reuters)

Tuesday, September 16, 2008


gloProfessional For Breast Cancer Foundation gloProfessional, a mineral makeup, skincare and spa brand for the professional and consumer markets, has made a charitable commitment to the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF), a non-profit organization that aims to extend women’s lives through education about breast cancer and early detection. gloProfessional will launch the “You Look Marvelous in Pink” limited edition kit in October to raise awareness and help in the fight against breast cancer.

“gloProfessional is committed to helping the fight against breast cancer by partnering with the NBCF to raise awareness through their community of professionals and survivors,” says Sean Butler, President of glôProfessional.

Created to support the NBCF, the new “You Look Marvelous in Pink” kit includes a gloEye shadow trio in a new shade, Ballerina, and gloLiquid Lips, a lip gloss in the new shade Pink Ginger. The packaging will feature the NBCF logo and direction to its website, www.nationalbreastcancer.org, as well as information about gloProfessional’s charitable commitment.

Janelle Hail, founder of the NBCF commented, “We are excited to partner with gloProfessional, and sincerely appreciate their desire to help in the fight against breast cancer.”

Donations from gloProfessional’s “You Look Marvelous in Pink” limited edition kit will be generated from both business-to-business and business-to-consumer channels, and will also be available on gloProfessional’s website www.gloskincare.com. The suggested retail price is $30.00.

The NBCF’s mission is to extend women’s lives through education about breast cancer and early detection. The organization provides hope to women and families affected by breast cancer through a community of caring support and encouragement that enables those diagnosed with breast cancer to have fulfilling lives during their treatment and afterward. For more information, www.nationalbreastcancer.org.
























Fashionisto Downey

Actor Robert Downey Jr. wore a black wool tuxedo with sequin trim by Moschino Uomo to the premiere of “Iron Man” at the Tokyo International Forum in Japan.

Monday, September 15, 2008

Under the subheading: INAPPROPRIATE

Sarah Pallin May Bring Her "God" To Alaska,
and Force it on the Nation, but for now,
their Diety is Welcomed to Corporate Hollywood




Sent Friday, 12 September 08 to the (remaining) entire company at Macrovision, which used to be TV Guide Gemstar:

From: Fred Amoroso [mailto:fAmoroso@macrovision.com]
Sent: Friday, September 12, 2008 10:04 AM
Subject: Assistance Needed

Once again our country is facing some kind of a disaster. This time in the form of what has been described as a catastrophic hurricane – Ike. I would like to recommend two things.

First, I am asking Eileen to establish a program whereby any contributions that you would like to make over the course of the next week to support Red Cross or other emergency relief programs for those affected by the storm be gathered by Macrovision and that the company will match those contributions dollar for dollar and at the end of next week or the beginning of the week after, that we send those donations to agencies that can put that money to work to help people.


Second, I would like to ask for your prayers. I personally believe that prayer helps and ask that you consider those affected by the storm and ask God to protect the families of not only those in Macrovision that will be affected, but all in the path of the storm, that The Lord minimize the damage and protect and care for the people affected.

Thank you.

Regards,

Fred

President and CEO

Macrovision Solutions Corporation

408-562-8569

www.macrovision.com

























Heidi Klum Is Just Not Busy Enough

Project Runway star and exec producer Heidi Klum, supermodel and mom, celebrated the launch of her Heidi Klum by Jordache virtual collection on Stardoll.com.

Sex, drugs, rock & roll
and...Quantum Physics??


"Running with Scissors" meets "The Ice Storm" -- only set to music and filled with some wild science -- when it comes to the "weird but true" tale of indie rock icon and EELS frontman Mark Oliver Everett, whose life has been surrounded by madness, genius, music, death and suicide.

Now, his remarkable, sad, quirky and thoroughly absorbing life story unfolds in two major events coinciding on the very same day this fall: a one-hour TV movie and a starkly revealing autobiography.

1) TV MOVIE: NOVA's Parallel Worlds, Parallel Lives
This hour-long NOVA documentary mingles science with music in a moving personal journey by Everett to understand his father, a distracted genius way ahead of his time who died young, bitter and largely unrecognized after developing what could be one of the most mind-blowing and important scientific theories ever. The film generated a huge buzz in advance screenings at the annual TCA tv critics' conference, where it enjoyed one of the most lively and talked-about panel sessions. NOVA premieres on Tuesday, October 21 @ 8 pm ET/PT on PBS.

2) BOOK: Things The Grandchildren Should Know
St. Martin's Press publishes an unflinching and often painfully humorous memoir by the internationally acclaimed lead singer, better known to fans as "E." This gritty and boldly told story reveals some of the darker forces and family tragedies that have shaped E's musical sensibilities and helped his artistic voice emerge. Hits bookstores on the same day, Tuesday, October 21.

Q: So what is a rocker like E-often compared to Kurt Vonnegut and John Lennon for his literate and lyrical music style--doing on a groundbreaking science series like NOVA?

A: Searching for his dad.

Though the two lived under the same roof for 18 years, the emotionally distant father rarely spoke to his son. Rejected by the scientific community and dismissed as a crackpot at the time, E's father Hugh Everett turned to heavy smoking and drinking, which cut his life short at age 51. (E discovered him dead.)

Now hailed by some as the most significant theory since Newton's and Einstein's, Everett's "Many Worlds" interpretation of quantum mechanics predicts that every time we make a decision, a parallel universe splits off from our everyday reality.

Or, as one prominent string theorist amusingly simplifies: "Basically, it answers the burning question on everyone's mind: Is Elvis really dead?"

Well, according to this theory, he is alive and well in a parallel universe somewhere....

Fifty years ahead of its time, the elder Everett's trippy theory has inspired sci-fi tv, films and books--everything from Star Trek to The Golden Compass and The Subtle Knife.

Now, this imaginative new NOVA follows E on his odyssey to understand his father's work and his incredible contribution to science and humanity with an idea that redefines what is reality.

Tuesday, October 21 at 8pm ET/PT on PBS www.pbs.org/nova/manyworlds

For most of Mark Oliver Everett's life, things didn't add up. Parallel Worlds, Parallel Lives follows Mark, better known as E, the lead singer of the cult band the EELS, across the country as he attempts to understand the fantastic possibility of parallel universes and unravel the story of his troubled family and the father he never really knew--iconoclastic quantum physicist Hugh Everett III. The film airs on NOVA, Tuesday, October 21 at 8pm ET/PT on PBS (check local listings).

Scientific American described Hugh Everett as "one of the most important scientists of the 20th century." In 1957, he proposed the controversial Many Worlds Theory, a startling interpretation of quantum mechanics, which makes the astounding prediction that every time we make a decision, a parallel universe splits off from our everyday reality. For many years, Hugh Everett's mind-boggling theory was overlooked. Today, the concept of parallel universes
is not only explored by many top physicists, but it also inspired many films, television series, and books, including The Golden Compass, Star Trek, and The Subtle Knife.

In this intelligent and imaginative film, the wry and charismatic Mark takes an emotional journey into his father's life, meeting Hugh's old college friends, colleagues, and admirers, including MIT physicist Max Tegmark, a vocal proponent of Hugh's ideas. It is only by entering the esoteric world of quantum physics that Mark can hope to gain an understanding of, and more importantly, a connection to the father who was a stranger to him.

Though Hugh Everett published his theory of parallel universes over 50 years ago as a Ph.D.student at Princeton University, it remained largely ignored by the scientific community for 20 years. Hugh's hypothesis countered the Copenhagen Interpretation, the most widely accepted view of the many puzzles of quantum physics, developed by Nobel laureate Niels Bohr. At that time, many considered the ambitious 24-year-old extremely naive and arrogant to challenge Bohr, who rivalled Albert Einstein as one of the giants of the physics world.

Through interviews and archival materials, the film conveys how Bohr's disregard of Everett's work devastated the young scientist. Dejected and depressed, he left quantum physics behind and became a defense analyst, conducting classified research for the Pentagon. Later he joined the corporate world, applying mathematical modelling in industry.The chain-smoking, hard-drinking Hugh Everett died of a heart attack in his Virginia home, long before Mark could appreciate his father's professional triumphs and frustrations.

"My father never, ever said anything to me about his theories. I was in the same house with him for at least 18 years, but he was a total stranger to me. He was in his own parallel universe. He was a physical presence, like the furniture, sitting there jotting down crazy notations at the dining room table night after night. I think he was deeply disappointed that he knew he was a genius but the rest of the world didn't know it."

Mark Everett jokingly admits that he can barely tabulate a restaurant tip, let alone understand his father's complex ideas. While Hugh focused on science, Mark focused on music. He mastered the piano, drums, and guitar and became an accomplished songwriter. In addition to writing material for their award-winning albums, the EELS contributed songs to movie soundtracks, including How the Grinch Stole Christmas and the three animated Shrek films.

Now in his forties, Mark is the sole surviving member of his family, which he has described as strange and lonely. With an intimate, often quirky style, Parallel Worlds, Parallel Lives delves deep into the Everett's family history, including the bouts of mental illness. Mark's father and paternal grandmother both suffered from severe depression, as did his deeply troubled sister.

The making of Parallel Worlds, Parallel Lives reintroduced Mark Everett to his father and helped him understand his dreams and disappointments. "I feel like I know my father a lot better. I feel I understand more of the whole timeline of events. Just talking to all these people who knew him, it feels like he's around now more than ever before."