Monday, February 23, 2015

Patricia Arquette wins her first Oscar for 'Boyhood'



"Boyhood"/UniversalPatricia Arquette's performance is emotionally gripping.Patricia Arquette has won the Academy Award for best supporting actress for her performance in "Boyhood."

This is her first Oscar win and first nomination.

Arquette was the favorite to win beating outnominees Meryl Streep ("Into The Woods"), Laura Dern ("Wild"), Keira Knightley ("The Imitation Game"), and Emma Stone ("Birdman").

The 46-year-old actresshas swept award season winninga Golden Globe and a BAFTAaward for her role in the Oscar-nominated picture.

Arquette's performance is the product of 12 years of hard work.

"Boyhood," which was directed by Richard Linklater, follows the trajectory of one young boy as he grows up. Arquette stars as his mother, who suffers through multiple failed marriages while trying to raise her two children.

Source: http://www.businessinsider.com/patricia-arquette-wins-best-supporting-actress-2015-2



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Sunday, February 22, 2015

Medzerian: Oscar nominations are not the only thing 'Selma' missed



Well never know the reason behind the apparent snub of the film Selma in the acting and directing categories for Sundays Oscars.

Maybe the academy members really thought there were five better choices in those categories.

Maybe it is subtle or not-so-subtle racism.

Maybe it really was a backlash over the films incorrect depiction of President Lyndon B. Johnson as adversary of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. rather than an ally.

Heres what we do know: For reasons I have yet to hear adequately explained, the filmmakers chose to mischaracterize the relationship between Johnson and King.

By the time the film was in general release and while Oscar nominations were underway the true, cooperative nature of the pairs relationship had been well-documented, originally by LBJs defense secretary Joseph A. Califano Jr. writing in The Washington Post and later by some pretty clear phone recordings.

When the Oscar nominations were announced, Selma had just two: for best song (Glory) and best picture one of eight films in that category, hardly the exclusive club it once was.

Rewriting history to suit ones own purposes is a dangerous endeavor: History is full of examples, from the former Soviet Union to Brian Williams.

Whats more, since entertainment vehicles like television programs and films live on and reach far more people than boring history books its important that not too many liberties be taken with historical stories.

A surprising number of Americans believe that dinosaurs and humans lived on Earth at the same time, probably because of The Flintstones. And look at how many people really think Sarah Palin said, I can see Russia from my house, rather than Tina Fey on Saturday Night Live.

But The Flintstones and Saturday Night Live are comedies; they dont purport to be telling true historical tales. Selma is different.

Before you go all American Sniper on me, lets readily acknowledge that Bradley Coopers portrayal of Chris Kyle softens many of the real persons rough edges and makes him a more sympathetic character. But at its core, it stays true to Kyles persona. Selma doesnt do that with the King-LBJ relationship.

The reaction to the criticism of Selma has been all over the place. One writer on Salon.com defended the film, saying its critics were insisting that a black narrative be told through the lens of a benevolent white man.

Of course, thats ridiculous. A true depiction of LBJs role in no way diminishes Kings story because Kings story really happened.

But by rewriting history, Selma not only missed out on some Oscar love but also the opportunity to tell an important story.

Sure, the film depicts Kings important work and the fact that one man can make a difference. What it missed out on was the chance to show that a black man and a white man can work together to fight something as important as racism.

These days, thats a story that desperately needs to be told.

David Medzerians column appears on Fridays;

reach him at

dmedzerian@ocregister.com.

Source: http://www.ocregister.com/articles/selma-651821-king-film.html



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American Horror Story actor Ben Woolf struck by vehicle, in critical condition



American Horror Story actor Ben Woolf was struck by a car on Thursday evening at 9 p.m.

Woolf, who plays Meep inAmerican Horror Story: Freak Show, was struck in the head by the side mirror of a passing vehicle at the intersection of Hollywood Boulevard and Gramercy Place in Los Angeles, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.

Woolf was transported to a nearby hospital where he remains in critical condition.

The police confirmed the incident was not a hit and run, as the driver remained at the scene.

In addition to playing Meep in Freak Show,Woolf also appeared in the first season of American Horror Story.

Originally posted February 20 2015 3:13 PM EST

Source: http://www.ew.com/article/2015/02/20/american-horror-story-actor-ben-woolf-struck-car-critical-condition



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American Horror Story's Ben Woolf now stable after being struck by car



American Horror Story: Freak Show actor Ben Woolf has been upgraded to critical but stable condition.

ButTMZ reported the actor isn't out of the woods just yet. The television star was originally in critical and unstable condition after being hit in the head by a moving vehicle in Hollywood on Thursday night.

Woolf, best known for playing Meep on AHS, was allegedly struck by the side-view mirror of a passing SUV as he attempted to cross the street.

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In intensive care: American Horror Story: Freak Show actor Ben Woolf is now in stable condition after being struck by a car, according to a new report; pictured in Los Angeles in December

Sources close to the actor have reported that while Woolf has not yet woken up, the upgrade to his condition was, in fact, good news.

He was being kept sedated while under constant supervision until his condition and vital signs improve further.

Sources also said the actor's family have been by his beside the entire time, and that he has been sent flowers by American Horror Story creator Ryan Murphy, as well as other cast and crew from the show.

'Ben's family thanks everyone for their love, support, and well wishes,' said Zack Teperman, rep of the4ft4in actor, who was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital following the accident.

Hit series: Woolf pictured on an episode of American Horror Story: Freak Show with Michael Chiklis

Woolf's good friend and co-star Naomi Grossman told E! News on Saturday that it was 'awful' to hear about him being involved in the accident.

'We're all in contact and from what I understand Kathy Bates tweeted that he was out of surgery and he's now in stable yet still critical condition,' Naomi said.

'So we're just hoping for the best. I'm waiting like for any moment they're going to tell me I can go visit and I'll be there,' she added.

Law enforcement sources told TMZ that the driver of the vehicle was not apprehended or given a citation as Woolf was allegedly jaywalking.

Woolf has previously starred in television movies such as Haunting Charles Manson, Dead In Kansas and Unlucky Charms.

His hit seriesAmerican Horror Story has also been renewed for a fifth season.

The Hollywood Reporter revealed last year that FX has ordered another season, picking up 13 episodes.

The fifth season was reported to arrive October 2015.

Casting for the show, which often sees a change-up season to season, has yet to be announced.

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Source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2961740/American-Horror-Story-actor-Ben-Woolf-critical-condition-struck-car.html



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Why Wasn't Charlie Sheen in the Two and a Half Men Finale? Chuck Lorre ...



Two and a Half Men is over. Charlie Harper returned! But Charlie Sheen didn't. Executive producer and co-creator Chuck Lorre explained the controversial star's absence in the show's last ever vanity card at the end of the episode.

"I know a lot of you might be disappointed that you didn't get to see Charlie Sheen in tonight's finale," Lorre's card read. He then went on to explain the idea he had for Sheen's character, including jokes about the infamous rants Sheen made headlines with when he was fired from the show.

"We thought it was funny," Lorre wrote. "He didn't. Instead, he wanted us to write a heart-warming scene that would set up his return to primetime TV in a new sitcom called The Harpers starring him and Jon Cryer. We thought that was funny, too."

MORE: What happened in the Two and a Half Men finale?

Sheen himself started rumors of his potential involvement in the series finale when the final season kicked into gear. Ashton Kutcher continued the discussion during an appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, but ultimately, it never happened.

"Wetried to come up with an ending that would be fun for us and for Charlie and we wanted to provide closure for fans of the show. We were very well aware there was this desire to see him, but it didn't work out," Lorre told EW about the ending. "And what can you do?"

CLICK: Read Ashton Kutcher's touching tribute to the show

The Two and a Half Men finale featured appearances from John Stamos, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Christian Slater and several of Charlie's exes. It all ended with Lorre saying the final word: "Winning," another play on Sheen's series of interviews given after his time on Two and a Half Men came to an end.

Sheen took to Twitter last night to address his absence. "Attention World: If you're looking for my much anticipated cameo on network TV, you'll have to check out "The Goldbergs" Wed Feb. 25th on ABC! I go where the love is. c #OfCourseI'mNot"

Was the finale "Winning?" See how it ranks in among the best and worst series finales ever in the gallery below.

PHOTOS: The best and worst series finales ever!

RELATED VIDEOS:

Source: http://www.eonline.com/news/627514/why-wasn-t-charlie-sheen-in-the-two-and-a-half-men-finale-chuck-lorre-explains



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Saturday, February 21, 2015

Indie Spirit Awards Winners List For 2015 Includes Patricia Arquette, 'Birdman ...



Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/02/21/indie-spirit-awards-winners-list-2015_n_6727342.html



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NBA Trades 2015: Predicting Outcomes for Biggest Names on Deadline Day



Christian Petersen/Getty Images

Plenty of trades are certain togo down on the final day before the deadline, but NBA fans are hoping some big names change teams.

Although this season has seen few rumors surrounding the league's superstars, there are still some notable players who could be on the trading block.

It is not yet known whether these competitors will be dealt, but here are predictions for the biggest names discussed in recent weeks.

Brook Lopez, Brooklyn Nets

With the Brooklyn Nets falling further down the standings, it makes sense for them to start trading away some of their aging players. However, the chatter causing everyone to take notice is that surrounding Brook Lopez.

The 26-year-old center has had a down year and dealt with injuries, but he has still shown the ability to play at an All-Star level. This makes it a bit of a surprise that he has been the subject of trade talks with the Oklahoma City Thunder, according to Alex Kennedy of Basketball Insiders:

Nets Daily also discussed a potential deal with the Charlotte Hornets that fell through, as Grantland's Zach Lowe confirmed:

With a player of this caliber still entering his prime, it wouldn't be surprising to see more teams get involved in the sweepstakes.

Still, the reason everyone wants Lopez is the same reason the Nets should hold onto him. On a roster full of players who won't be part of the future, the center is someone who can be a cornerstone of this franchise.

Unless Brooklyn is completely blown away with an offer, he should remain where he is.

Prediction: Brook Lopez stays with the Nets

Arron Afflalo, Denver Nuggets

The interest in Arron Afflalo has been all over the place this month, with a plethora of teams willing to discuss a deal. Ramona Shelburne of ESPN noted how long the list was just a few days ago:

Bleacher Report's Ric Bucher recently reported one of those teams was being more aggressive:

However, ESPN's Marc Stein hears the Portland Trail Blazers have stood out recently:

This destination makes the most sense, as the Western Conference contender could use a fourth scorer behind LaMarcus Aldridge, Damian Lillard and Wesley Matthews. Afflalo could be an immediate contributor off the bench as someone who could come in and rack up points in a hurry.

Although there was talk of multiple first-round picks, Christopher Dempsey of TheDenver Post notes the Denver Nuggets are looking for just a mid-to-late first-round pick. This wouldn't be too high of a cost, despite the objections fromBleacher Report's Sean Highkin:

Despite his struggles, Afflalo has proved to be a go-to scorer and consistent shooter throughout his career. In a different location, he could be able to regain his shooting touch and finish with a great season. This would be perfect for a team like Portland.

Prediction: Arron Afflalo is traded to the Trail Blazers

Goran Dragic, Phoenix Suns

Although he wasn't considered a real trade candidate a few weeks ago, Goran Dragic caused waves when he stated he wouldn't re-signwith the Phoenix Suns in the offseason.

Paul Coro of AZCentral.com quoted some of the point guard's negative remarks toward the organization:

The good news is if the squad wants to make a deal, there are certainly teams interested, according to Stein:

TheLos Angeles LakersandNew York Knicksare destinations at the top of Dragic's wish list, sources said, with theMiami Heatalso in the mix. But sources told ESPN.com that Houston, Sacramento and Boston all remain interested in pursuing a trade for him before the deadline, confident that they could sway Dragic to consider them long-term if they added him.The Rockets, Kings and Celtics are not on Dragic's list of preferred landing spots.

Although the Los Angeles Lakers and New York Knicks make sense for the future, neither side is really in a position to give up draft picks. They would be smart to wait until the offseason to try to sign him as a free agent.

According to Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo Sports, this lack of motivation to complete a deal has caused the Suns to look elsewhere for a trade.

Among the other possibilities, the Heat might make the most sense as a squad that has assets to offer and the willingness to complete a deal. Dragic would also fit in well on a team that lacks backcourt options, especially when Dwyane Wade is injured.

He seems likely to be traded somewhere, and Miami could end up being the top destination.

Prediction: Goran Dragic is traded to the Heat

Follow Rob Goldberg on Twitter for the latest breaking news and analysis.

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2369622-nba-trades-2015-predicting-outcomes-for-biggest-names-on-deadline-day



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