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CineFest Brasil NY 2011 - HD Intro

2011-06-13T16:28:00.000-04:00

CineFest Brasil NY 2011 - De Pernas Pro Ar

2011-06-12T23:50:00.005-04:00

"De Pernas Pro Ar" ("Head Over Heels") Film Introduction and Q&A

IDOL 2011 - FINALE (Results)

2011-05-25T22:05:00.001-04:00

05/25/11
...After a long season of ups and downs and a season of change mainly the addition of new Judges Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler, a Winner has been crowned on IDOL. The new American Idol is Scotty McCreery, the 17-year-old Country crooner with the seasoned voice. He beat out Lauren Alaina. For more IDOL info and to get Tickets to the Idol Summer Tour, log on to www.americanidol.com.

IDOL 2011 - FINALE (Performances)

2011-05-24T21:30:00.000-04:00

05/24/11
It is Lauren Alaina Versus Scotty McCreery -- the youngest Finale match up in IDOL history -- Live from the Nokia Theater. It is said at the top of the show that Lauren blew out one of her vocal chords during rehearsals earlier in the day, but her voice seems fine and the medical staff has given her the green light to perform. They each perform three songs: Round 1 is the Contestant's Favorite Song of the Season, Round 2 is Music IDOL's Choice -- Carrie Underwood chooses for Lauren & George Strait chooses for Scotty, Round 3 is Contestant's Prospective 1st Single. Let us break-it-down:

ROUND 1 - Contestant's Favorite Song of the Season

Scotty McCreery - "Gone" by Montgomery Gentry
- Thumbs Up. He gives a stellar performance out of the gate.

Lauren Alaina - "Flat On The Floor" by Carrie Underwood
- Thumbs Up. She sings a song of her personal Idol, former IDOL Carrie Underwood. The Judges give her a standing ovation.

ROUND 2 - Music IDOL's Choice

Scotty McCreery - "Check Yes Or No" by George Strait
- Thumbs Up. George Strait is Scotty's music Idol and George picks one of his own songs for him to sing and Scotty nails it flawlessly.

Lauren Alaina - "Maybe It Was Memphis" by Pam Tillis
- Thumbs Up. Former IDOL Carrie Underwood is Lauren's music Idol and she selects a country song for her to sing.

The Judges have not been allowed to comment until the end of Round 2. Here is what they had to say.

Randy says "America you did a fine job choosing these two. This is so hard tonight. It is so even. Scotty your reprisal of Montgomery Gentry's "Gone" I thought was brilliant. I thought the George Strait song was good as well. Lauren, I think when you did Carrie's "Flat On The Floor", it was really good. I loved the Pan Tillis song too. Round 1, slight edge to Scotty. Round 2 however, slight edge to Lauren."
Jennifer says "Scotty, I couldn't think of a better way to start the show. Lauren, "Flat On The Floor" -- you came out and attacked it. It was crazy. I didn't think the second song for Scotty was as dynamic, but Lauren on "Maybe It Was Memphis" was strong and clear and beautiful. I'm gonna agree with Randy -- Round 1 to Scotty and Round 2 to Lauren."
Steven says "I give both Rounds to Lauren."

Taio Cruz performs "Positive" and then it is on to the Round 3 performances.

ROUND 3 - Contestant's Prospective 1st Single (should they win)

Scotty McCreery - "I Love You This Big"
- Thumbs Up. A fitting 1st single should he win. Randy says "I'm just marveling in the fact that we have our two youngest finalists ever - both in the country genre. Scotty you are here. You are in it to win it. I am proud of you. That was a brilliant vocal. Jennifer says "You are our great storyteller on this show. That was an amazing vocal." Steven says "You took a chance, you ran with it and you nailed it again."

Lauren Alaina - "Like My Mother Does" by Kristy Lee Cook
- Thumbs Up. Lauren pays homage to her mother singing this ballad. She delivers a powerful vocal leaving her mother in tears. Randy says "Wow. I love how at the end, it is the Lauren we have come to love from Nashville. Lauren has arrived. It was amazing." Jennifer says "This is a very tight race tonight, but Lauren with that song you may have just won. You sang it with heart, emotion and feeling. It was beautiful." Steven says "The first time I saw you, you were my American Idol."

Randy & Steven both agree that Round 3 goes to Lauren. Jennifer remains neutral about Round 3. Based on the Judges comments tonight, the overall consensus is that Lauren performed better. In my opinion, Lauren is going to win the title. She was sort of a dark horse during this whole season. She made a good first impression in her initial audition when she sang Aerosmith's "I Don't Wanna Miss A Thing" (one of Steven's songs and her parents favorite) in front of her family and the Judges. She really came alive and into her own during the latter part of the Live episodes. People are naturally predicting Scotty, however, I predict that the votes will come through and Lauren Alaina WILL BE THE NEXT AMERICAN IDOL. Tonight's Finale though was a bit more tame and low key when compared to Finales of the past.

Tune in Tomorrow for the results during the two-hour over sized second part of the FINALE at 8 PM (EST).

IDOL 2011 - Top 3 (Results)

2011-05-19T22:00:00.001-04:00

05/19/11
Tonight on IDOL, another contestant was sent home and the Final Two who will be competing for the title were named. The first person sent back to safety was Lauren. It then came down to Scotty and Haley. Haley Reinhart was voted off. Next week, the finale will be between Lauren Alaina and Scotty McCreery. Many people are split as to their thoughts on which way it go. Both are very young (15 and 17 years-old respectively) and both are very talented. They have their own unique sounds and genres that they would "fit into". Scotty is completely Country. Lauren is a little bit of Country and a little bit of Rock & Roll (actually she's a mix of several genres). Part One of the Finale (the Performances) airs one night earlier next week on Tuesday at 8 PM while the Results air on Wednesday Night. Tune in for the showdown.

IDOL 2011 - Top 3 (Performances)

2011-05-18T22:10:00.104-04:00

05/18/11
The Top 3 IDOLs each performed three songs tonight. Beyonce is their mentor this week. Let us break-it-down:

ROUND 1 - Contestant's Choice

Scotty McCreery - "Amazed" by Lonestar - Thumbs Up. He gives a solid flawless performance fitting of this stage in the competition. Steven says "I think you just keep getting better and better with your melody. You really did take that song up a notch." Jennifer says "You have grown so much as a performer. It was a great way to start the show." Randy says "It was a great song choice for you. Your picking smart things, knowing who you are and knowing where your lane is."

Lauren Alaina - "Wild One" by Faith Hill - Thumbs Up. Jennifer says "You created a moment. That was very good." Randy says "I love seeing you having fun. It was a nice song choice for you and I can tell that in your heart you were loving it. That was nice. Very nice." Steven says "You were singing like you owned the song. I'm so happy for you."

Haley Reinhart - "What Is And What Should Never Be" by Led Zeppelin
- Thumbs Up. She took a risk picking this classic rock song and pulled it off effortlessly. Joining her on stage shredding on the guitar was her father. She went up to the Judges table to sing to them and as she turned around to go back up to the center of the stage, she trips and falls. Without missing a beat (sans a few words) she continues. Randy says "This is what it's all about. Your fearless. You chose a song that is not for the weak of heart. Crazy." Steven says "It's not about how many times you fall. It's about how many times you get up." Jennifer says "You gotta keep going. That's the sign of a professional. It was a really tough song. You sang it really really great."

ROUND 2 - Jimmy Iovine's Choice

Scotty McCreery - "Are You Gonna Kiss Me Or Not" by Thompson Square
- Thumbs Up. Steven says "You were living that one. Beautiful." Jennifer says "It was so good." Randy says "It had a great chorus. It was really perfect, right in your range. Scotty is in it to win it."

Lauren Alaina - "If I Die Young" by The Band Perry
- Thumbs Up. Lauren has a really nice voice. Jennifer says "You have the most beautiful tone of our finalists. You had an honest moment in the middle of that song. I felt that and it was a beautiful thing." Randy says "You got such a beautiful tone and you are in it to win it too. Emotionally it was flawless." Steven says "I loved it as well. You have a beautiful voice and you nailed it again. You did it again."

Haley Reinhart - "Rhiannon" by Fleetwood Mac
- Thumbs Up. An excellent slow song soothing to her voice. Randy says "I think you did a really good job with it." Steven says "You played it like we know you would." Jennifer says "It was a beautiful moment. It was a nice contrast to what you did earlier. It was a pretty ethereal moment."

ROUND 3 - Judge's Choice

Scotty McCreery - "She Believes In Me" by Kenny Rogers
- Thumbs Up. Steven says "You put it over the top for me right there. Nice going." Jennifer says "We wanted to see if you could hit that chorus. I guess you showed us." Randy says "You were so sweet and tender in the front. You hit the chorus. Very nicely done."

Lauren Alaina - "I Hope You Dance" by Lee Ann Womack
- Thumbs Up. Jennifer says "You gave me goosebumps. That was beautiful. I'm going to dare to say that you have won that round for me already." Randy says "This song is a great lyric for a great singer. You sang it great and you are in the zone." Steven says "You are so at ease with yourself and you sang it so perfectly."

Haley Reinhart - "You Oughta Know" by Alanis Morissette
- Thumbs Up. What a perfect fit for her voice. So one would think. The arrangement at the beginning was kinda funky, but it picked up towards the end. It still feels as if she could have done more with this particular song. I am not sure if it was the arrangement or her vocals or both. Randy says "Those were some amazing choruses by you. Haley is in it to win it." Steven says "Amazing. I do not know what to say. You nailed it." Jennifer says "The stronger parts were the choruses."

Tomorrow Night we find out who will be in the showdown Finale next week. Here are my predictions:
Top Pick: Lauren Alaina
Bottom Two: Scotty McCreery & Haley Reinhart
Going Home: Scotty McCreery
I believe and hope it will be a battle between the Ladies. I guess the next American Idol will definitely be female.

IDOL 2011 - Top 4 (Results)

2011-05-12T21:05:00.010-04:00

05/12/11
It was an intense night on IDOL as the Final Four became the Final Three. Emotions ran high. The first one safe was Lauren Alaina followed by Haley Reinhart. This left the boys standing waiting to take the final spot. In a Results Episode equivalent to that of Pia Toscano's elimination earlier in the competition, everyone was shocked when it was announced that James Durbin is going home. Scotty McCreery is safe. Everyone was visibly upset from the Judges to the audience to James himself. Next week, the Final Three each get to visit their hometowns. They will also perform three songs each - Contestant's Choice, mentor Jimmy Iovine's Choice and Judge's Choice. The Top 11 will go on tour this Summer. Log on to www.americanidol.com for more information. Stay Tuned!

IDOL 2011 - Top 4 (Performances)

2011-05-11T21:45:00.011-04:00

05/11/11
Haley, Scotty, Lauren and James - These are the four left standing on American Idol. Tonight, they performed in two rounds. In Round 1, the IDOLs picked songs that inspired them. In Round 2, they selected songs from the Jerry Lieber & Mike Stoller Songbook. Mentoring the contestants tonight for Round 2 was Lady Gaga. Let us break-it-down:

ROUND 1
James Durbin - "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey
- Thumbs Up. A good performance by the resident rocker. Steven says "You did it right." Jen says "Great song. Great job. Great performance." Randy says "That was the highest degree of difficulty and you did it!"
Haley Reinhart - "Earth Song" by Michael Jackson
- Thumbs Down. An ambitious song choice for someone who has been doing good lately. I think she took a step back tonight. It seemed a bit overdone, forced at times and not as "natural" as she usually is in her vocal ability. Jen says "You have to think about raising the bar when choosing a song. That's part of competing." Randy says "To me, it confused me with who you are as an artist, because the song doesn't really suit you or fit you. It felt like you were just screaming at the end the same note over and over. I didn't like it. I thought you were screaming." Steven says "They're both wrong. That song showed me that you can. You nailed it with feeling."
Scotty McCreery - "Where Were You When The World Stopped Turning?" by Alan Jackson
- Thumbs Up. Another good country performance. A little sleepy for my taste, but a solid performance delivered. Randy says "That's a great amazing song. I think it's the perfect song choice. I think you have set your mark on this stage, this season." Steven says "I ditto what Randy says. That was beautiful." Jen says "I am in love with you, what you stand for and what you bring to your music. It is the mark of someone that is meant to do this. I'm glad we're here to witness it."
Lauren Alaina - "Any Way" by Martina McBride
- Thumbs Up. Another excellent powerful vocal performance by Lauren. Steven says "You did it again. You broke my heart. Your voice is so pure and perfect. You're the whole package." Jen says "That was very good. I'm so proud of you. That was exactly what we are talking about. It was a great vocal performance." Randy says "That was hot. That was everything. That was amazing and there was absolutely nothing wrong with it."

ROUND 2
Haley Reinhart - "I Who Have Nothing" by Jordin Sparks
- Thumbs Up. A nice recovery from Round 1, she sound much more in her element and delivers a good performance. The judges give her a standing ovation. Jen says "Look what you're capable of. You are that amazing. One of the best performances of the year." Randy says "Everybody needs a moment tonight. You just had a moment right here. One of your best vocals ever." Steven says "That was beautiful."
Scotty McCreery - "Young Blood" by The Coasters
- Thumbs up. A good upbeat performance not as sleepy as Round 1. Randy says "I think we just saw both sides of a Scotty concert. I think he's ready." Steven says "It was good. I liked it. I loved the humor." Jen says "I think it was really great. It seems like you really hit your stride and now it's a sprint to the finish line."
Lauren Alaina - "Trouble" by Elvis Presley
- Thumbs Up. Solid performance. Steven says "That was well done." Jen says "Some serious good performance there. Vocally it was really really great. We saw some maturity in your performance that we had not seen before." Randy says "Nice one."
James Durbin - "Love Potion No. 9" by The Drifters
- Thumbs Up. Nice rock version of this classic song. Good performance. Jen says "It was a really great performance." Randy says "You are peaking at the right time and I love it." Steven says "What you can do with your voice, you did tonight."

Two weeks shy of the Finale, one of these will take home the prize. But one will fall tomorrow night. Here are my predictions:
Top Pick: Lauren Alaina
Bottom Two: Haley Reinhart & Scotty McCreery
Going Home: Scotty McCreery

IDOL 2011 - Top 5 (Results)

2011-05-05T21:05:00.001-04:00

05/05/11

This week, the IDOL contestants took on "Songs from Now and Then". Joining them as their mentor was superstar Sheryl Crow. The Bottom Two consisted of Jacob Lusk and Lauren Alaina. Jacob Lusk was sent home. It is now down to the Final Four - Haley, James, Lauren & Scotty. At this point, I would probably bet on James to win the whole thing. He has had an incredible streak of consistency and has not really had a "bad week" yet. Next week, they take on songs from the Leiber & Stoller Songbook as they are mentored by Lady Gaga. Stay Tuned!

IDOL 2011 - Top 6 (Results)

2011-04-28T21:15:00.002-04:00

04/28/11

This week, the IDOL contestants took on songs written by the legendary Carole King. Along with Jimmy Iovine. The last three in jeopardy this week consisted of Casey Abrams, Jacob Lusk & Scotty McCreery. Casey Abrams was sent home. Five are left and next week Sheryl Crow mentors the contestants as they tackle "Song from Now & Then".

IDOL 2011 - Top 7 (Results)

2011-04-21T21:15:00.002-04:00

04/21/11
This week, the IDOL contestants took on songs of the 21st century (2000-Present). Over 52 million votes were received and the results are in. The Bottom Three this week consisted of Jacob Lusk, Stefano Langone & Haley Reinhart. First, Haley was sent back to safety. Then it was down to Jacob versus Stefano. Stefano Langone was sent home after receiving the lowest number of votes by America. The guy who overcame a near-fatal auto accident in the past and who was the Judge's Wild Card pick when the TOP 13 were named - is sadly going home. However, he will be joining the other IDOLs on the Summer Tour. Six more remain and the Finale is near.

Happy 2nd Birthday, Director Uncut!

2011-04-20T00:00:00.053-04:00

Today, April 20th, 2011 marks the Second Anniversary of this website, DIRECTOR UNCUT (www.directoruncut.com). It was started as a source of uncensored news within the Entertainment Industry and related fields. You can find DIRECTOR UNCUT on multiple Social Media outlets including TWITTER & YOUTUBE. Stay tuned for more as this website continues to expand and grow. Thank you for following along. :)

IDOL 2011 - Top 8 (Results)

2011-04-14T21:02:00.004-04:00

04/14/11
After over 53 million votes last night, the results are in. The bottom three consisted of Haley Reinhart, Stefano Langone & Paul McDonald. Haley is safe first. Then, it is between Stefano and Paul. The contestant Going Home is Paul McDonald. He is allowed to sing a swan song and Jennifer requests Paul to sing "Maggie May" (by Rod Stewart). We are down to the Top 7. Who will be crowned the next American Idol?

Keep Watchin'.

IDOL 2011 - Top 8 (Performances)

2011-04-13T21:45:00.101-04:00

04/13/11
Tonight, we are down to the Top 8 contestants on American Idol. They had to perform songs from the Movies. Let us break-it-down:

Paul McDonald - "Old Time Rock & Roll" by Bob Seger [from the movie "Risky Business" starring Tom Cruise]
- Thumbs Up. It was your typical zany performance that we have come to expect from Paul. Nothing surprising or "Wow". Steven says "I love your crazy wild abandonment. I like it." Jennifer says "It's like watching a diamond in the rough get a little more polished every week." Randy says "I love that your not a typical singer. You're definitely an artist."
Lauren Alaina - "The Climb" by Miley Cyrus [from the movie "Hannah Montana"]
- Thumbs Up. Again, she delivers big vocals this week and a performance that gets the audience on their feet in applause. Jennifer says "You sang it so beautifully." Randy says "I love that the Lauren we first saw in Nashville is roaring back. You did an amazing job." Steven says "I love what you bring to a song and more what a song brings to you. You move me beyond tears."
Stefano Langone - "End Of The Road" by Boys II Men [from the movie "Boomerang"]
- Thumbs Up. After feeling defeated by last week's Results show, he takes the stage with a fresh boost of confidence and it pays off. He puts it all into it and the vocals are on point. Randy says "You made the right move at the right time. That was your best vocal to date." Steven says "You proved tonight you know how to milk a song. This is so not the end of the road for you. It's the beginning." Jennifer says "It's like you got it. You now know the key to being a great performer. That was the sh*t."
Scotty McCreery - "I Cross My Heart" by George Strait [from the movie "Pure Country"]
- Thumbs Up. Scotty goes back to his country roots. Did he ever really leave? Another solid performance. Steven says "I think all of America is falling in love with your voice. You're good." Jennifer says "That was really good. You performed it beautifully." Randy says "America, look at this guy right here. A star is born on this stage."
Casey Abrams - "Nature Boy" by Nat King Cole [from the movie "Untamed Heart"]
- Thumbs Up. He delivers a a jazzy bluesy solid performance leading the Judges and the audience to give him a standing ovation. Jennifer says "I honestly feel you bring something special to music. Good job." Randy says "I hope America gets this. I thought it was brilliant. I thought it was absolutely genius." Steven says "You are an artist in the truest sense of the word. There is a certain sophistication in what you do."
Haley Reinhart - "Call Me" by Blondie [from the movie "American Gigolo"]
- Thumbs Up. Of the two female contestants left in the competition, she definitely has the stronger voice. After being a slow start early on, she has definitely come out of her shell in the past few weeks and started to define herself as an artist. Randy says "I didn't love the beginning of it. It wasn't a showcase for your voice for me." Steven says "It was beautiful. You sang it heavy. You sang it great." Jennifer says "I agree with Randy. It wasn't the best. You gotta keep taking it higher and higher."
Jacob Lusk - "Bridge Over Troubled Water" by Aretha Franklin [from the movie "The Pursuit Of Happyness"]
- Thumbs Up. He delivers another gospel-inspired powerful performance. Steven says "How much of you that you put in a song is phenomenal." Jennifer says "You're such a gifted vocalist. You gave me the chills." Randy says "I believe you. I listen to every word. It was perfect perfect harmony."
James Durbin - "Heavy Metal" by Sammy Hagar [from the movie "Heavy Metal"]
- Thumbs Up. He delivers a solid crazy hardcore metal performance. Jennifer says "That felt real. I loved that. That was crazy." Randy says "You guys were just at a James Durbin concert. I am happy you stuck to your guns. Tonight, you did you. Durbin rocks!" Steven says "Outstanding Durbin. Excellent as usual."

Another one will bite the dust on Tomorrow Night's Results. Here are my predictions:
Top Pick: Stefano Langone
Going Home: Lauren Alaina

IDOL 2011 - Top 9 (Results)

2011-04-07T21:15:00.001-04:00

04/07/11
Tonight on American Idol, another contestant was voted off. The Bottom Three consisted of Stefano Langone, Pia Toscano & Jacob Lusk. The first one sent to safety was Jacob. Then it boiled down to Pia Vs. Stefano and surprisingly enough Stefano is safe. Pia Toscano received the lowest number of America's votes and was sent home. The audience was shocked and started "boo"-ing. The judges were shocked. Randy was sort-of mouthing the words "What the F--" but you couldn't really tell. I am a fan of both of these contestants, so I hate to see either one leave. The obvious question you must ask after watching these results is - would the audience have the same reaction if it were Stefano voted off? The answer to this is sadly (and presumably) "NO". Stefano may not be as "popular" as Pia, but then again who received more votes enough to stay in the competition one more week?? Jennifer is visibly upset and in tears at the results. Because, she is so loved, she is allowed to sing a swan song. Contestants singing one last time was part of the format of seasons past, but it appears they have done away with that this season. She sings a fairly good version of "I'll Stand By You" by The Pretenders. She is in tears and overcome with emotion as she is joined on stage by the judges and her fellow contestants. Tune in the next week as the remaining eight move one step closer.

IDOL 2011 - Top 9 (Performances)

2011-04-06T21:45:00.070-04:00

04/06/11
The Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame is based in Cleveland, Ohio and is the inspiration for tonight's IDOL's as they pick their favorite songs from the genre and try to bring out their inner rockstar...and that they certainly do. The ladies were styled by Gwen Stefani and Will.I.Am was also brought in to mentor the contestants. Let us break-it-down:

Jacob Lusk - "Man In The Mirror" by Michael Jackson
- Thumbs Up. Of course, Jacob did the song justice and made it his own. He is the type of performer who always gives it 110%. His character on stage is always larger than life and he always goes for these high powerhouse vocals and nails it 99% of the time vocally. I never knew this song is considered to be "Rock & Roll". I always thought of somewhat Pop and R&B. Steven says "Every time you sing, you bring another little piece of yourself to the party and that was beautiful." Jennifer says "You make everybody know that if you believe in yourself and you stick to what feels right, you can do anything in this world." Randy says "I am so proud of you."
Haley Reinhart - "Piece Of My Heart" by Janis Joplin
- Thumbs Up. Up until this point, the Judges have been saying that she reminds them of Janis Joplin and hinting that she should do a Joplin song. Haley pulls through and gives them what they have been asking for. Jennifer says "Your showing everybody that your a contender." Randy says "That's the Haley that we loved when we first saw you." Steven says "I couldn't find anything wrong with that. You took it up a few notches."
Casey Abrams - "Have You Ever Seen The Rain" by Creedence Clearwater Revival
- Thumbs Up. Just the perfect soulful song to match his voice. Was a little boring though. Nothing extra-ordinary. No wow. Just another good performance by Casey. Randy says "You made C-C-R proud." Steven says "You're not just a singer. You're a true musician. Every time you sing you bring something different." Jennifer says "That's exactly where you belong."
Lauren Alaina - "Natural Woman" by Aretha Franklin
- Thumbs Up. She's been a bit of a dark horse since the beginning of the competition although she was an early audition favorite. Now, she is coming into her own within the past few performances and defining who she is as an Artist. Her performance was a smooth blend of Country and Soul. By definition, she is more Country though. Steven says "Four months ago you came in here an immature little girl and tonight you are a natural born woman." Jennifer says "You are amazing." Randy says "I think you did a good job on it."
James Durbin - "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" by George Harrison
- Thumbs Up. After performing as the crazy rocker for the past three weeks in a row, James decides to slow it down tonight. He still managed to deliver his own stylistic emotion into the song as he does every week. So far on the live shows, he has pretty much consistently delivered solid performances. Jennifer says "It's nice to see that other side of you. It's so special to watch. I thought it was a great choice for you." Randy says "I love seeing the true emotional side of James Durbin. You have to take chances to be an Artist and you did a good job." Steven says "Not only did your guitar gently weep, but you did as well."
Scotty McCreery - "That's All Right, Mama" by Elvis Presley
- Thumbs Up. Another good performance by Scotty. Randy says "This was like a new Scotty we have never seen." Steven says "You did it well." Jennifer says "I love it."
Pia Toscano - "River Deep, Mountain High" by Tina Turner
- Thumbs Way Up. Pia does an up-tempo song much much justice. An awesome, knockout performance. YOU GO PIA! Steven says "You killed it." Jennifer says "That was amazing. You are really really special up there. You are spectacular." Randy says "You showed that you can deliver on an up-tempo and you did that tonight."
Stefano Langone - "When A Man Loves A Woman" by Percy Sledge
- Thumbs Up. Awesome performance. Jennifer says "I really really felt for the first time that you were really singing to somebody, about somebody. It was magic." Randy says "I liked it but I wasn't jumping up and down." Steven says "I like where you take it and tonight you nailed it."
Paul McDonald - "Folsom Prison Blues" by Johnny Cash
- Thumbs Up. Another cool performance. Randy says "I got three words for you - I loved it." Steven says "You rocked the house." Jennifer says "It was the perfect way to end the show. I loved it."

We are quickly getting closer to crowning the next IDOL. Who will make the Top 8? Tune in Tomorrow Night for the Results. Here are my predictions:
Top Pick: I am going back to Pia Toscano this week. She gets my pick.
Going Home: Casey Abrams or Scotty McCreery (one or the other)

IDOL 2011 - Top 11 Redux (Results)

2011-03-31T21:00:00.002-04:00

03/31/11
After a record breaking 55 million votes last night, two contestants were sent home on IDOL. The bottom three consisted of Naima Adedapo, Thia Megia & Paul McDonald. It's the end of the road for Naima & Thia. My prediction was correct. Tune in next week as the Top 9 take on songs in the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

IDOL 2011 - Top 11 Redux (Performances)

2011-03-30T22:15:00.168-04:00

03/30/11
So, here we are. Another night of IDOL. After last weeks shocking Results show, we still remain with a Top 11 and tonight they got to perform songs by Elton John. Let us break-it-down:

Scotty McCreery - "Country Comfort"
- Thumbs Up. Back to his roots, he found Elton's virtually only country song and did a good job accompanied by his guitar whom he affectionately named "Scarlet". Steven says "you did it again". Jennifer says "stay grounded and never doubt yourself". Randy says "you have seasoned so fast, I felt like I was at your concert".
Naima Adedapo - "I'm Still Standing"
- Thumbs Up. Naima took this popular classic and turned it into her own Reggae version by slowing down the tempo. It was cool. Jennifer loves the way she performs and feels that the idea to flip the song was better than the payoff. Randy agrees with Jennifer and feels that it came off corny. He feels that it was not the right choice. Steven congratulates her on picking a song that fits her.
Paul McDonald - "Rocket Man"
- Thumbs Up. Another good performance by Paul. Randy feels it was "quiet comfort" yet in parts pitchy. He feels Paul is still holding back a bit. Jennifer agrees. Steven says he loves Paul's voice and his character.
Pia Toscano - "Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me"
- Thumbs Up. Here she goes again singing another ballad. However, she seems to really take this ballad to another level and does an awesome job singing it. She evokes the right amount of emotion, the right amount of stage presence and the vocals are pretty damn good. The Judges are all left happy and clapping. Steven loves it. Jennifer agrees that the notes were amazing and says that she actually felt Pia this time. Randy calls it unbelievable comparing her to parts Whitney and parts Mariah. The Judges negate the misnomer that they don't want her to sing ballads. They explain that they just want Pia to switch it up next time and do something more up-tempo.
Stefano Langone - "Tiny Dancer"
- Thumbs Up. It was okay and he ended the song by singing right up to Jennifer. Jennifer says she felt Stefano moved the crowd and has taken past criticisms to heart. Randy likes that he opened his eyes and hit the high notes properly. Steven says that he has a sweet voice and connected well with the audience.
Lauren Alaina - "Candle In The Wind"
- Thumbs Up. A refreshing difference hearing a female sing this song and Lauren has the perfect voice for it. Her voice made think of Reba McEntire in this performance. Very powerful, sultry and pleasing to the ears. Randy calls it one of her greatest performances on the Idol stage. Steven calls it beautiful and perfect. Jennifer said she sounds and looks gorgeous and amazing.
James Durbin - "Saturday Night's Alright"
- Thumbs Up. James rocked it out on stage moving around and through the audience. He brought his usual powerhouse rockstar persona and delivered again. The Judges were left clapping. Steven says he brought the heat and has a really good rock voice. Jennifer says she forgets that its a competition when he takes the stage. She calls it a great full performance by a great artist. Randy agrees with them both and calls it a great great performance.
Thia Megia - "Daniel"
- Thumbs Down. It was okay and did not really stand out compared to others (so far) tonight. Jennifer liked it. Randy felt it was too safe. Steven felt that she sang a great Elton John song well.
Casey Abrams - "Your Song"
- Thumbs Up. Accompanied by piano, Casey delivered is a humble deep feeling performance reminiscent of his earlier more enjoyable performances. Also, he stopped by the barber this week and got a trim. Randy is glad that they saved him last week calling it one of the greatest days on Idol. He calls his performance absolutely brilliant and well done. Steven concurs with Randy and calls his performance just short of a standing ovation and calls him a true artist. Jennifer says she slept like a baby the night they saved Casey and the performance tonight justifies them saving him last week.
Jacob Lusk - "Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word"
- Thumbs Up. He comes across as a natural and sounds like he has been doing this as a seasoned performer for years. Jacob does come from a strong Gospel background. So, all of his performances have just the right amount of "over-the-top" without being "too much". His vocals and performances are truly dynamic and amazing. Steven says "once again you slayed me" and calls him wonderful. Jennifer calls it really beautiful. Randy liked the arrangement and calls it a beautiful song for him. Randy encourages him to find one particular "shining spot" (a.k.a. the Jacob Spot).
Haley Reinhart - "Bennie And The Jets"
- Thumbs Up. Damn... She delivers a cool and sexy rendition of this popular Elton song. She definitely gives it her own personality and charisma. Her vocals are killer as well. Jennifer says "it all came together" and calls it "amazing". Randy declares it "the best performance of the night". Steven says "you sing SEXY".

Who will make it into the Top 9? Here are my predictions for Tomorrow Night's Results:
Top Pick: Much to my surprise, I am giving this one to Haley Reinhart who really came through when I expected otherwise.
Going Home: Two must go this week and I predict they will be definitely Thia Megia and probably Naima Adedapo.

Performances Tomorrow Night also include IDOL Alum Fantasia as well as Jamie Foxx featuring Will.I.Am.

IDOL 2011 - Top 11 (Results)

2011-03-24T21:10:00.028-04:00

03/24/11
The lines have closed and America has voted. Tonight's Episode was a bit of a stretched out spectacle as are most IDOL Results episodes. It began with a recap of the IDOLs learning this week how to perform in front of a Live audience from mentor and artist Marc Anthony. They do their opening Motown number and then to the surprise of the Judges and the Audience, they are joined by Stevie Wonder on keyboard. The legend proceeds to dedicate and sing "Happy Birthday" to Steven Tyler accompanied by the contestants, a cake and a painting of him. The Idol Judge and veteran rockstar turns 63 on March 26 (Saturday). Later there was a surprise appearance by Hulk Hogan as Ryan was reading the results. This was done to play on the fact that the kids liked to wrestle one another while living at the mansion. On another newsworthy note, this week the IDOLs had to move out of the Beverly Hills mansion they are staying in and were moved to a different undisclosed location. The reason? - The mansion is haunted and some claimed to have witnessed "suspicious activity" in the home. Country duo Sugarland performed and so did Alum Jennifer Hudson. The bottom three consisted of Thia Megia, Stefano Langone & Casey Abrams. Thia is the first one safe followed by Stefano. Casey Abrams is in danger of going home. Everyone is shocked and stunned at this outcome. Casey begins to sing for his life and seconds later in a not-so-suprising move Randy raises up his hand and asks for the band and Casey to stop. Randy, Jennifer and Steven agree that they DO NOT need to hear him sing again and that they are disgusted by America's results. They tell Casey that he IS STAYING in the competition and Casey is shocked falling to Ryan's side. The Judges continue to give him more praise. Ryan announces that two people will go home next week and the upcoming IDOL Tour will include the Top 11 (NOT the Top 10 as previously announced). My prediction that Thia Megia will be the bottom vote-getter and the one to go home was clearly wrong in this interesting evening of surprises.
"DIRECTOR UNCUT.... OUTTTTT!"

IDOL 2011 - Top 11 (My Picks)

2011-03-24T12:00:00.012-04:00

03/24/11
Tonight, tune in to American Idol at 8PM (EST) as another contestant is sent home (unless saved by the Judges). There will also be performances by IDOL Alum Jennifer Hudson and the group Sugarland. Here are my predictions for the Results:

Top Pick: Pia Toscano
Going Home: Thia Megia

IDOL 2011 - Top 11 (Performances)

2011-03-23T22:30:00.046-04:00

03/23/11
Tonight, the Top 11 contestants took on the songs of the Motown era, a blending of Soul and R&B with a Pop sensibility. Berry Gordy founded the record label in 1959 in a small studio located in Detroit, Michigan. The sounds and artists of the Motown generation paved the way for many of today's top acts and now the IDOLs get to add their own influence. Let us break-it-down:

Casey Abrams - "I Heard It Through The Grapevine" by Marvin Gaye
- Thumbs Up. Casey delivered a pretty good rendition of the classic hit. It was a little more laid back, more subdue and not as uptempo as the original. Steven calls him the perfect entertainer and that he loved it. Jennifer appreciates the fact that Casey knows who he is as an artist and that he is his own "niche". Randy loves that Casey takes chances whenever he hits the stage.
Thia Megia - "Heatwave" by Martha and the Vandellas
- Thumbs Down. A pretty decent performance was delivered by the 16-year-old Thia. She decided to switch it up this week and do a more uptempo song after being scrutinized by the judges in weeks prior for consistently doing ballads. Jennifer feels that it was great to see let loose, but she needs her to dig even deeper and to be more of a performer on stage. Randy knows that she has it in her and has more to offer and congratulates her on taking it up a notch this week. Steven is good with it and applauds her for stepping out of her comfort and taking the risk.
Jacob Lusk - "You're All I Need To Get By" by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell
- Thumbs Up. Idol's resident Gospel singer gave it his own powerhouse flair and as always nailed the song. The Judges gave him a standing ovation and Steven was even compelled to rush the stage to give Jacob a big hug and calling him "Baby Luther" (in reference to Luther Vandross). Randy said there was nothing wrong with the performance and called him a true professional. Steven said it was beautiful. Jennifer said she was moved by the performance.
Lauren Alaina - "You Keep Me Hangin' On" by The Supremes
- Thumbs Up. Under a single spotlight, she started off the song very slow and sensual then the beat hit and she rocked it out and gave it her own funk. Steven says they enjoy watching her grow week to week. Jennifer enjoyed the attitude in her performance and how she brought it to life. Randy says since last week she has started to become a true competitor in the competition.
Stefano Langone - "Hello" by Lionel Richie
- Thumbs Up. He delivers a good performance. Jennifer says he looks good, he sings good, but feels he did not deliver the intensity. Randy says the only thing he is missing is a "real connection or emotion". Steven agrees with the panel.
Haley Reinhart - "You Really Got A Hold On Me" by Smokey Robinson & the Miracles
- Thumbs Down. It was not that impressive of a performance. It seemed like a poor, over-the-top at times karaoke version of the classic. She tried to overcompensate by using crazy notes and screaming. That is my take on it. Randy said she started out shaky but loved it towards the end where her bluesy form took over. Steven says that is the Haley they have been looking for. Jennifer says she has an effortless control in her voice, it goes where she wants it to go and that she has the most control of her voice out of anyone in the competition.
Scotty McCreery - "For Once In My Life" by Stevie Wonder
- Thumbs Down. This is NOT a song you do a country version of. Steven called it beautiful. Jennifer called it a great version and praises him for making it his own, however also stating that it was not his strongest performance. Randy praises him for taking a chance and likes his low notes.
Pia Toscano - "All In Love Is Fair" by Stevie Wonder
- Thumbs Up. She delivers a dynamic powerhouse performance with amazing vocals. Jennifer says she has amazing vocals, beauty and image, but needs her to own the stage and move around more. Randy agrees and loves that she thinks about the notes and hits them on point. Randy though wants her to bring something else besides a ballad to the stage. Steven says she is the closest thing to a "star" in the competition so far.
Paul McDonald - "Tracks Of My Tears" by Smokey Robinson & the Miracles
- Thumbs Up. Another cool performance by the quirky performer accompanied by his guitar. Randy says that he has a unique tone and a distinctive voice and particularly loved the tender part of the song. Steven compares him to Bob Dylan and Willie Nelson and calls him great. Jennifer says he is the most rounded seasoned performer in the competition and that all he needs is a good producer and he is set.
Naima Adedapo - "Dancing In The Street" by Martha and the Vandellas
- Thumbs Up. She delivered an awesome performance and even included her own African dance inspired part in the song. Steven loved it. Jennifer got goosebumps and called her the full package. Randy said that all of Naima showed up tonight and called the performance smart and the arrangement brilliant.
James Durbin - "Living For The City" by Stevie Wonder
- Thumbs Up. He delivers a cool funky performance as he always does. Jennifer calls it incredible. Randy calls it unbelievable and loves when he hits the high notes. Steven thinks he's great and his voice is incredible and he nailed it.

Here are my predictions for Tomorrow Night's Results:
Top Pick: For the second week in a row, I say Absolutely Pia Toscano.
Going Home: Thia Megia

IDOL 2011 - Top 11 (Performances)

2011-03-23T22:30:00.045-04:00

03/23/11
Tonight, the Top 11 contestants took on the songs of the Motown era, a blending of Soul and R&B with a Pop sensibility. Berry Gordy founded the record label in 1959 in a small studio located in Detroit, Michigan. The sounds and artists of the Motown generation paved the way for many of today's top acts and now the IDOLs get to add their own influence. Let us break-it-down:
Casey Abrams - "I Heard It Through The Grapevine" by Marvin Gaye
- Thumbs Up. Casey delivered a pretty good rendition of the classic hit. It was a little more laid back, more subdue and not as uptempo as the original. Steven calls him the perfect entertainer and that he loved it. Jennifer appreciates the fact that Casey knows who he is as an artist and that he is his own "niche". Randy loves that Casey takes chances whenever he hits the stage.
Thia Megia - "Heatwave" by Martha and the Vandellas
- Thumbs Down. A pretty decent performance was delivered by the 16-year-old Thia. She decided to switch it up this week and do a more uptempo song after being scrutinized by the judges in weeks prior for consistently doing ballads. Jennifer feels that it was great to see let loose, but she needs her to dig even deeper and to be more of a performer on stage. Randy knows that she has it in her and has more to offer and congratulates her on taking it up a notch this week. Steven is good with it and applauds her for stepping out of her comfort and taking the risk.
Jacob Lusk - "You're All I Need To Get By" by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell
- Thumbs Up. Idol's resident Gospel singer gave it his own powerhouse flair and as always nailed the song. The Judges gave him a standing ovation and Steven was even compelled to rush the stage to give Jacob a big hug and calling him "Baby Luther" (in reference to Luther Vandross). Randy said there was nothing wrong with the performance and called him a true professional. Steven said it was beautiful. Jennifer said she was moved by the performance.
Lauren Alaina - "You Keep Me Hangin' On" by The Supremes
- Thumbs Up. Under a single spotlight, she started off the song very slow and sensual then the beat hit and she rocked it out and gave it her own funk. Steven says they enjoy watching her grow week to week. Jennifer enjoyed the attitude in her performance and how she brought it to life. Randy says since last week she has started to become a true competitor in the competition.
Stefano Langone - "Hello" by Lionel Richie
- Thumbs Up. He delivers a good performance. Jennifer says he looks good, he sings good, but feels he did not deliver the intensity. Randy says the only thing he is missing is a "real connection or emotion". Steven agrees with the panel.
Haley Reinhart - "You Really Got A Hold On Me" by Smokey Robinson & the Miracles
- Thumbs Down. It was not that impressive of a performance. It seemed like a poor, over-the-top at times karaoke version of the classic. She tried to overcompensate by using crazy notes and screaming. That is my take on it. Randy said she started out shaky but loved it towards the end where her bluesy form took over. Steven says that is the Haley they have been looking for. Jennifer says she has an effortless control in her voice, it goes where she wants it to go and that she has the most control of her voice out of anyone in the competition.
Scotty McCreery - "For Once In My Life" by Stevie Wonder
- Thumbs Down. This is NOT a song you do a country version of. Steven called it beautiful. Jennifer called it a great version and praises him for making it his own, however also stating that it was not his strongest performance. Randy praises him for taking a chance and likes his low notes.
Pia Toscano - "All In Love Is Fair" by Stevie Wonder
- Thumbs Up. She delivers a dynamic powerhouse performance with amazing vocals. Jennifer says she has amazing vocals, beauty and image, but needs her to own the stage and move around more. Randy agrees and loves that she thinks about the notes and hits them on point. Randy though wants her to bring something else besides a ballad to the stage. Steven says she is the closest thing to a "star" in the competition so far.
Paul McDonald - "Tracks Of My Tears" by Smokey Robinson & the Miracles
- Thumbs Up. Another cool performance by the quirky performer accompanied by his guitar. Randy says that he has a unique tone and a distinctive voice and particularly loved the tender part of the song. Steven compares him to Bob Dylan and Willie Nelson and calls him great. Jennifer says he is the most rounded seasoned performer in the competition and that all he needs is a good producer and he is set.
Naima Adedapo - "Dancing In The Street" by Martha and the Vandellas
- Thumbs Up. She delivered an awesome performance and even included her own African dance inspired part in the song. Steven loved it. Jennifer got goosebumps and called her the full package. Randy said that all of Naima showed up tonight and called the performance smart and the arrangement brilliant.
James Durbin - "Living For The City" by Stevie Wonder
- Thumbs Up. He delivers a cool funky performance as he always does. Jennifer calls it incredible. Randy calls it unbelievable and loves when he hits the high notes. Steven thinks he's great and his voice is incredible and he nailed it.

Here are my predictions for Tomorrow Night's Results:
Top Pick: For the second week in a row, I say Absolutely Pia Toscano.
Going Home: Thia Megia

IDOL 2011 - Top 12 (Results)

2011-03-17T22:00:00.003-04:00

03/17/11
Haley Reinhart, Naima Adedapo and Karen Rodriguez were the Bottom Three vote-getters tonight on IDOL. Sadly, favorite Karen Rodriguez (our Latina from the N-Y-C) received the lowest number of votes. Perhaps, America was sleeping on their asses on this one. There is no doubt that despite not continuing further on IDOL, this talent will go on to bigger and better opportunities. This is proven yet again when she sings her swan song - her Spanglish rendition of "Hero" (by Mariah Carey). The Judges were divided (probably Jennifer wanted to keep her while Randy and Steven did not) and Karen Rodriguez was sent home. An incredible IDOL journey for such an already awesome talent.

Here is a clip of Karen's Best Performance on IDOL.

IDOL 2011 - Top 13 (Results)

2011-03-10T21:05:00.000-05:00

03/10/11
Karen Rodriguez, Ashthon Jones and Haley Reinhart are in the Bottom Three. The episode also included performances by IDOL Adam Lambert & Diddy Dirty Money. Am I the only one who found it kind of ironic that Diddy is on stage performing while his ex Jennifer Lopez cheers him on from the Judges chair? LOL. Of the Bottom Three, first Karen is safe. Then, Haley is safe. Ashthon is in danger of leaving having received the lowest number of votes. She is allowed to sing for her life once more to convince the Judges to use the save. The Judges can use the "save" only once for the season. Using it, keeps the lowest vote-getter another week in the competition. They choose NOT to use it and appropriately so. Ashthon Jones is going home.

IDOL 2011 - Top 13 (Performances)

2011-03-09T22:15:00.020-05:00

03/09/11
The Top 13 performed songs by their own personal IDOL under the guidance of Interscope mogul Jimmy Iovine and his team. Let us break-it-down:

Lauren Alaina - "Any Man Of Mine" by Shania Twain
- Thumbs Up. We know that she can sing country and that is her niche and that she aspires to be like Shania and may be the next Carrie Underwood, however, it was just okay. The vocals are there though. Steven wanted a more "kick ass" performance. Jennifer agrees and so does Randy.
Casey Abrams - "With A Little Help From My Friends" by Joe Cocker
- Thumbs Up. Awesome performance. He fell in love with this song first hearing it as the theme song to the TV series "The Wonder Years". The Judges were blown away by his incredible performance. Steven called him a "plethora of passion".
Ashthon Jones - "When You Tell Me That You Love Me" by Diana Ross
- Thumbs Up. After being compared to Diana Ross by the Judges last week and because Ross is her IDOL, she decides to sing one of her songs. Jimmy even invites Motown Records' Beery Gordy. She gave a dynamic performance and her voice has an incredible reach. She was like a little Diana Ross on stage. The Judges called her "elegant and incredible" and love her performance.
Paul McDonald - "Come Pick Me Up" by Ryan Adams
- Thumbs Down. It was good vocally, but the song is a little sleepy. He has a quirky, comedic sensibility about him. He reminds me of Charlie from the FX Network TV series "It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia". Steven likes the "raspy-ness" of his voice but called it a "little pitchy". Jennifer calls him "unique" and hopes America understands his song choice. Randy says although it wasn't an exciting song choice, he's still a fan and understands the song choice.
Pia Toscano - "All By Myself" by Celine Dion
- Thumbs Way Up. Taking inspiration from her IDOL Celine, Pia blew it out of the box giving such a elegant and pure performance. Jennifer tells her she topped last week and called it beautiful. Randy admires her natural gift and her ability to tackle those powerhouse songs. Steven says she "slammed it" and also called it beautiful.
James Durbin - "Maybe I'm Amazed" by Paul McCartney
- Thumbs Up. This season's resident rocker gave a kick-ass performance as usual thus far. Randy loves his versatility and calls him "dangerous". Steven said he did a real good job. Jennifer tells him to get used to the audiences praise, because he has what every great rocker has and that is "a good melodic quality".
Haley Reinhart - "Blue" by LeAnn Rimes- Thumbs Up. She gives a very soft, enjoyable, melodic performance. Steven and Jennifer liked it, but Randy was bored.
Jacob Lusk - "I Believe I Can Fly" by Seal- Thumbs Up. He gives the song his own gospel rendition. The Judges all loved it.
Thia Megia - "Smile" by Michael Jackson
- Thumbs Up. The Judges thought it was a unique arrangement and enjoyed her performance.
Stefano Langone - "Lately" by Stevie Wonder
- Thumbs Up. Awesome performance. Steven says you pulled it off and loved the arrangement. Jennifer is impressed that he took a classic and made it into a dance remix and made it his own. Randy says it started out rocky but killed it by the end and that Stevie Wonder would be impressed.
Karen Rodriguez - "I Could Fall In Love" by Selena
- Thumbs Up. She took a classic song and did a more up-tempo rendition of it. Jennifer felt her nervousness and that she wasn't "spot on". Randy shares the sentiment and called it sleepy. Steven agrees and hopes to see her next week.
Scotty McCreery - "The River" by Garth Brooks
- Thumbs Up. Another good country performance. The Judges all loved it and remind him not to change his style and emphasize that he stay true to himself.
Naima Adedapo - "Umbrella" by Rihanna
- Thumbs Up. This was a departure from the usual nature we are used to from her, which is very singer/songwriter-esque. When we first met her, she reminded me of Corinne Bailey Rae. She did this song justice even adding her own part Reggae flavor to it - a very nice touch indeed. Steven calls her "pitchy" but "crazy good" and that she brought flavor. Jennifer says she's got fire and needs to work on her control a bit. Randy also like the Reggae vibe.

My predictions for this week are as follows:
Top Pick: Absolutely Pia Toscano
Going Home: Haley Reinhart

Tune in Tomorrow for the Results.

IDOL 2011 - Top 24 - Night 3 (Results)

2011-03-03T22:15:00.026-05:00

03/03/11
Tonight on American Idol, it was a very heavy-content-packed and drama-filled Results episode. Ryan brought up the contestants as follows to determine who America has voted to put into the Top 10. Let us break-it-down:

Scotty McCreery Vs. Robbie Rosen - Scotty is in Top 10. Robbie is not in Top 10.
Jovany Barreto Vs. Jordan Dorsey Vs. Clint Jun Gamboa - None of them are in the Top 10.
Lauren Alaina Vs. Pia Toscano - Lauren & Pia are both in the Top 10.
Ta-tynisa Wilson Vs. Julie Zorrilla - Neither one is in the Top 10.
Karen Rodriguez Vs. Ashthon Jones Vs. Kendra Chantelle - Karen is in the Top 10. Ashthon & Kendra are not in the Top 10.
Jacob Lusk Vs. Casey Abrams Vs. Tim Halperin - Jacob & Casey are in the Top 10. Tim is not in the Top 10.
Thia Megia Vs. Naima Adedapo Vs. Lauren Turner - Thia is in the Top 10. Naima & Lauren are not in the Top 10.
*Randy is shocked upon the reveal that Naima has not made the Top 10.
Paul McDonald Vs. Brett Loewenstern - Paul is in the Top 10. Brett is not in the Top 10.
Haley Reinhart Vs. Rachel Zevita - Haley is in the Top 10. Rachel is not in the Top 10.
James Durbin Vs. Stefano Langone - James is in the Top 10. Stefano is not in the Top 10.

America's Top 10 is made up of - Scotty McCreery, Lauren Alaina, Pia Toscano, Karen Rodriguez, Jacob Lusk, Casey Abrams, Thia Megia, Paul McDonald, Haley Reinhart & James Durbin. Based on my predictions of who will be in the Top 10, I guessed 6 out of 10 correctly - including my Top Picks of James Durbin, Karen Rodriguez & Pia Toscano whom I felt gave the best performances on their respective nights. Now with 14 contestants still "in danger", it comes down to the Judges Wild Card. Of these 14, the Judges will give a select few the chance to sing again and possibly offer up one of the remaining slots. It is unclear at this point just how many slots remain. They have all been rehearsing up until this point with the band and can select any song. Jennifer lets Ryan know that the Judges have selected 6 contestants to sing for their lives (3 Guys and 3 Girls).

Wild Card Contestants sing for their lives. The lineup goes like this:
Ashthon Jones - "You're Gonna Love Me" by Jennifer Hudson
- Thumbs Up. She blows it out the box. The Judges all give her favorable remarks.
Stefano Langone - "I Need You Now" by Smokie Norful
- Thumbs Up. Great performance. Randy loves the song choice saying it is one of his favorites. Jennifer and Steven both agree that he brought it and it is remniscent of why they fell in love with his singing on day one.
Kendra Chantelle - "Georgia On My Mind" by Ray Charles
- Thumbs Up. She gives a good performance and hits her notes. Randy was skeptical where she started but was impressed where she took it.
Jovany Barreto - "Angel" by Jon Secada
- Thumbs Up. Jovany does the Spanglish version of this song dedicating to someone he once loved. He succeeds in delivering a powerful and moving performance. Jennifer tells him that he did a good job and that he "did all he can do". A little bit vague on Jennifer's part, but she has been a steadfast supporter of Jovany since day one.

Naima is announced as the last Girl competing for the Wild Card. So, it is the end of the road for Julie Zorrilla, Lauren Turner, Rachel Zevita & Ta-tynisa Wilson.
Naima Adedapo - "For All We Know" by Donny Hathaway
- Thumbs up. She delivers a honest and true as we have come to enjoy from her. She sings with a great deal of conviction, confidence, believability and emotion. Steven comments that she brought it from the heart.

Robbie is announced as the last Guy competing for the Wild Card. So, it is the end of the road for Brett Loewenstern, Clint Jun Gamboa, Jordan Dorsey & Tim Halperin.
Robbie Rosen - "Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word" by Elton John
- Thumbs Up. Randy calls it "very nice and tender" and says that is the Robbie that they have grown to love.

First, Randy announces that Ashthon Jones has made it through. Then, Jennifer tells Ryan that two more slots remain and announces that Stefano Langone has also made it through. Steven announces the final person is Naima Adedapo. This completes the IDOL Top 13 and they are:

Ashthon Jones
Casey Abrams
Haley Reinhart
Jacob Lusk
James Durbin
Karen Rodriguez
Lauren Alaina
Naima Adedapo
Paul McDonald
Pia Toscano
Scotty McCreery
Stefano Langone
Thia Megia

IDOL 2011 - Top 24 - My Picks

2011-03-03T10:00:00.014-05:00

03/03/11
Here is a recap of my predictions of this week's American Idol results.

Top Picks: James Durbin, Karen Rodriguez & Pia Toscano

Staying:
Casey Abrams, Jacob Lusk, James Durbin, Jovany Barreto, Robbie Rosen

Karen Rodriguez, Naima Adedapo, Pia Toscano, Ta-tynisa Wilson, Thia Megia

Going Home:
Brett Loewenstern, Clint Jun Gamboa, Jordan Dorsey, Paul McDonald, Scotty McCreery, Stefano Langone, Tim Halperin

Ashthon Jones, Haley Reinhart, Julie Zorrilla, Kendra Chantelle, Lauren Alaina, Lauren Turner, Rachel Zevita

Tune in tonight to see if your favorites make it into the Top 10.

IDOL 2011 - Top 24 - Night 2 (Girls)

2011-03-02T22:15:00.033-05:00

03/02/11
Tonight, AMERICAN IDOL's Top 12 Girls took the stage to perform. Let us break-it-down:

Ta-tynisa Wilson - "Only Girl" by Rihanna
- Thumbs Up. She has powerful vocals and really hit it in the end. Jennifer & Steven favored it and Randy felt that she did not bring her own into it.

Naima Adedapo - "Summertime" by Sam Cooke
- Thumbs Up. One of the more mature contestants, there is no doubt that this is definitely her time to shine and she does that with presence, perfection, grace and amazing vocal ability. The Judges favored her performance with Steven comparing her to an "early Ella Fitzgerald".

Kendra Chantelle - "Impossible" by Christina Aguilera- Thumbs Up. Randy said she reminded him of Lauryn Hill. Steven called it "beautiful". Jennifer feels there is more within her that they have not yet seen.

Rachel Zevita - "Criminal" by Fiona Apple
- Thumbs Down. It was too over the top, not recognizable and slightly bad burlesque. The judges criticized her for not having a self-awareness of who (in terms of genre) she wants to be as an artist. Steven called it "too Broadway" and Randy said it was just plain "bad".

Karen Rodriguez - "Hero" by Mariah Carey
- Thumbs Way Up. This 21-year-old New York is incredible. She picked one of the most difficult songs often selected in the history of IDOL and pulled it off brilliantly even singing some parts in Spanish. Genius! Karen is one to watch in this contest. She is a true competitor and gives it her all. The Judges were all moved by her performance and praised her incorporation of Spanish and truly making it her own.

Lauren Turner - "Seven Day Fool" by Etta James
- Thumbs Up. This performer was referred to by Jennifer in earlier rounds as a "young Bette Midler" and this certainly shows through in her show-business-esque type performance. Randy likes her soulful, blues-y vibe. Steven liked it and Jennifer needs her to let go more physically.

Ashthon Jones - "Love All Over Me" by Monica
- Thumbs Up. She has a big vocal range and is quite a confident performer. Steven said she has "the confidence of a queen". Jennifer said she "has the makings of a diva". Randy agrees with his peers but was not crazy about the song.

Julie Zorrilla - "Breakaway" by Kelly Clarkson
- Thumbs Up. She has good vocal ability but it feels like she got swallowed up by parts of the song. This was probably not the smartest song choice, but I am still a fan. She had a soft, sweet ending. Jennifer liked it and felt that she did not sing enough from her heart. Randy said she did not add her own to it and felt she sang it mediocre compared to Kelly Clarkson. Steven also felt that it was a wrong song choice.

Haley Reinhart - "Fallin" by Alicia Keys
- Thumbs Down. Like Karen, Haley also picked a song also known as a "powerhouse song" in the history of IDOL. She did not do it justice in my opinion. Parts of it seemed forced. Randy did not like it and called it "karaoke". Steven feels the opposite from Randy and felt that it had just the right amount of style. Jennifer echoes what Steven says and just urges Haley to put more of herself into it.

Thia Megia - "On My Own" by Irene Cara
- Thumbs Up. For a 15-year-old, she has a beautiful, powerful voice. The Judges feel that she is truly special and has a great quality in her tone.

Lauren Alaina - "Turn On The Radio" by Reba McEntire
- Thumbs Up. Lauren gives a dynamic, high-energy, country-style performance with this Reba song and blows it out the box. The Judges loved it and feel that there's more within her that she does not even realize it.

Pia Toscano - "I'll Stand By You" by The Pretenders
- Thumbs Way Up. Her & Karen are my absolute favorites tonight. She delivered an amazing, powerhouse rendition of this classic song. Everyone gave her a standing ovation including the Judges. They did not stand for any other contestant all night (including the Guys night last night). The Judges loved it. Steven says "Even after a Monday and a Tuesday, even a week says "WTF?" ". LOL.

Here are my predictions for Thursday Night's results:
Top Picks: Karen Rodriguez & Pia Toscano
Staying: Ta-tynisa Wilson, Naima Adedapo, Karen Rodriguez, Thia Megia, Pia Toscano
Going Home: Kendra Chantelle, Rachel Zevita, Lauren Turner, Ashthon Jones, Julie Zorrilla, Haley Reinhart, Lauren Alaina

The Top 24 have all performed. Don't forget to Vote America by Phone, Text and Online at http://www.americanidol.com/. Tomorrow Night on the Results Show, the Top 10 Contestants will be crowned including the Judges Wild Card. Also, we will see the premiere of Jennifer Lopez's music video for her new song "On The Floor". Tune in tomorrow at 8PM (EST) on FOX.

IDOL 2011 - Top 24 - Night 1 (Guys)

2011-03-01T22:10:00.051-05:00

03/01/11
Tonight, AMERICAN IDOL's Top 12 Guys took the stage to perform for the shows first LIVE show this season. Of these contestants only five will advance to next week. The "new" big stage looks awesome seating 700 audience members and offering a 360-degree panoramic view. Randy Jackson is seated in what Seacrest dubs "the anchor seat" -- the one to the left a.k.a. Simon Cowell's old position. The contestants were given free rein to pick any song they want to tonight. Voting is done this season by phone, by text and now also online. Here is the lineup. Let us break-it-down:

Clint Jun Gamboa - "Superstition" by Stevie Wonder
- Thumbs Up. Visually he may be former Idol hopeful William Hung's look-alike, however, he has a far far better voice. All of those nights hosting at the Karaoke bar seem to be paying off. All favorable reviews were given by the Judges.

Jovany Barreto - "I'll Be" by Goo Goo Dolls
- Thumbs Up. With a dynamic personality and incredible voice shining through, he is kind of like a younger version of Marc Anthony. Maybe that is why J-Lo likes him so much. Her and Steven favored his performance, however Randy called it "karaoke" and "okay".

Jordan Dorsey - "OMG" by Usher
- Thumbs Down. For someone who was good during his prior performances, this just sucked. The Judges heavily criticized him. Jennifer said that it's not the genre he should be singing. Randy said that he did not bring his own essence to the song.

Tim Halperin - "Streetcorner Symphony" by Rob Thomas
- Thumbs Down. It was just okay, not his best and not a good choice of song. The Judges shared the sentiment and were disappointed.

Brett Loewenstern - "Light My Fire" by The Doors
- Thumbs Down. The self-described "outcast" and "red apple in a pile of green apples" did not due this classic rock song justice. It started off shaky and picked up a bit at the end. The Judges focused more on his "personality" therefore giving him favorable reviews as opposed to emphasizing the technical aspect of the performance.

James Durbin - "You've Got Another Thing Comin'" by Judas Priest
- Thumbs Up. As expected this hard rocker chooses a rock song to sing where he can apply his crazy-sick vocal range, which makes him virtually sound like a seasoned vet. Steven Tyler, Idol's resident rockstar, called it "F--kin' Crazy Good". Jennifer admires his organic, natural ability to perform. Randy warns the other the contestants to watch out for James. All favorable reactions all around.

Robbie Rosen - "Angel" by Sarah McLachlan
- Thumbs Up. So, he chooses a ballad by a female artist and makes it his own. It was melodic and heartfelt and certainly not overdone. Steven & Jennifer both agree that his performance was beautiful and that he is a special singer. Randy feels that Robbie wasn't "comfortable" in the performance.

Scotty McCreery - "Letters From Home" by John Michael Montgomery
- Thumbs Up. Of course his performance was good, because he stayed within his element - Country. I wait until he deviates outside his comfort genre. All the Judges give him favorable reviews and Jennifer says that he was "born to do country".

Stefano Langone - "Just The Way You Are" by Bruno Mars
- Thumbs Up. The Seattle native who overcame a life-changing car accident choose this popular Bruno Mars hit. All the Judges enjoyed it.

Paul McDonald - "Maggie May" by Rod Stewart
- Thumbs Up. His vocals were okay. He has got a quirkiness about him that shows in his performances. The Judges refer to it as being a "unique character" and give him all favorable reviews.

Jacob Lusk - "A House Is Not A Home" by Luther Vandross
- Thumbs Up. Jacob has in certain parts what can be classified as a "powerhouse voice". He gives this Vandross classic his own unique emotion and feeling. Although the song is a bit dreary for my taste, his voice can certainly move mountains. The Judges echo the sentiment that Luther would be proud and that they are proud having Jacob on IDOL.

Casey Abrams - "I Put A Spell On You" by Screamin' Jay Hawkins
- Thumbs Up. Good performance. All the Judges liked it.

Here are my predictions for Thursday Night's results:
Top Pick: James Durbin
Staying: James Durbin, Jovany Barreto, Robbie Rosen, Jacob Lusk, Casey Abrams
Going Home: Clint Jun Gamboa, Jordan Dorsey, Tim Halperin, Brett Loewenstern, Scotty McCreery, Stefano Langone, Paul McDonald

Tune in tomorrow night as the Top 12 Girls take the stage.

Happy New Year 2011!

2011-01-01T00:12:00.000-05:00

Thank you for being a fan of Director Uncut, reporting Entertainment & Industry News since 2009. Make sure you also Follow along on our Social Media homes, TWITTER & YOUTUBE.

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CineFest Brasil NY 2010 - Queen Of Brazil

2010-06-09T23:50:00.002-04:00

Rainhas (Queen Of Brazil) showcases the seldom spoken of and seldom explored world of Brazilian drag queens. Fábio Mota is a small town boy from Rondônia. He travels to Rio De Janiero with aspirations of becoming the next Miss Gay Brazil. We follow him and his partner as they make the journey across the country to the little known national pageant. Along the way, we are introduced to and hear the stories of several guys all vying for the title. The guys reveal stories about their lives - including coming out, their families' reactions and just why it is so important that they be crowned Brazil's most beautiful girl. Initially penned as a work of fiction, it quickly became a documentary once Director Fernanda Tornaghi was informed of the real-life pageant's existence. Tornaghi alongside Producer Daniel Van Hogstraten introduced the film at tonight's screening.

*Update - 6/12/10*
Rainhas (Queen Of Brazil) walked away from Closing Night earning the coveted Crystal Lens Award. The Crystal Lens Award winner is voted on by the audience throughout the duration of the festival. Congratulations to Fernanda, Daniel & crew for creating an insightful doc.

CineFest Brasil NY 2010 - Rita Cadillac, The Lady Of The People

2010-06-09T21:00:00.004-04:00

Rita Cadillac, A Lady Do Povo (Rita Cadillac, The Lady Of The People) takes an intrusive look into the life of the star and those who surround her. Rita regarded by many Brazilian men as a big sex symbol during the 80s is now middle-aged and simply coasting by. In this intimate one-on-one we learn of the many struggles she has had throughout her life and career. She started out as an entertainer and a dancer on stage. There were times where she has been severely stressed, depressed and could not get any work forcing here into extremes such as prostitution. Trying to be an important role model to those around her including her child, Rita tries to save up as much as she can in order to maintain a decent retirement. The lack of money forces her to star in a few adult films. Although having made some poor (and often necessary) choices in life, those around her including family and the public maintain the image of Rita in her early days as an artist and performer. Rita Cadillac through it all has truly remained "A Lady Do Povo". The doc is directed by Toni Venturi.

CineFest Brasil NY 2010 - Straight To The Point

2010-06-08T21:00:00.001-04:00

Onde A Coruja Dorme (Straight To The Point) is a documentary that tells the story of Bezerra Da Silva known to many as the father of "gangsta samba". Most of the lyrics to Bezerra's music is written by residents of Rio De Janeiro's favelas. Growing up in the impoverished areas, Da Silva took it upon himself to champion and be the voice for aspiring rappers whose lyrics and sound would otherwise not see the light of day on a more commercial scale. Da Silva became a father-figure to these men and is admired upon as the spokesman for aspiring artists within the favelas. He would often record them singing and preserve their words. These words would often speak of social injustices and the negative stereotypes placed by society regarding those living in the slums. Quite an interesting doc and certainly a must-see. Onde A Coruja Dorme is directed by Márcia Derraik & Simplício Neto.

CineFest Brasil NY 2010 - So Normal 2

2010-06-07T23:00:00.007-04:00

HAHAHA! I could not stop laughing throughout this film. Os Normais 2 (So Normal 2) is the continuing story of crazy couple Rui (Luiz Fernando Guimarães) and Vani (Fernanda Torres). Going into this film, I had no prior knowledge of these characters and their history and still had a great time. So, if you are new to these characters or a longtime fan, you will have no trouble following along. Let's take it back a bit, shall we? Rui and Vani are an engaged couple who always seem to get themselves in awkward and at times uncomfortable situations with those that they encounter. Os Normais was a hugely popular Brazilian sitcom known for its wildly adult humor and unpredictable stories. It aired for three seasons from 2001-2003. The series led to Os Normais - O Filme which was released in Brazil in October 2003 to much praise and success. The sequel, Os Normais 2 received an even larger response than the first Feature. In the sequel, the story picks up on the lovebirds still engaged after 13 (YES-13!) years and still as young and vibrant as ever. We start off with Rui and Vani enjoying a typical date night at their usual spot, the karaoke bar. Bored with the mundane-ness of the evening, they come up with an idea to seek out another female to engage them in a ménage à trois. What ensues takes the couple all over town in a series of hilarious obstacles and misunderstandings. The film is a take on love, sex and relationships and is a sheer glorification of the common quote - "You can't live with'em and you can't live without'em". Will Rui & Vani finally find everlasting happiness with one another? Will Rui finally put a ring on it? You'll have to watch and find out. The sequel (like its predecessor and the TV series) is directed by José Alvarenga Jr. Actress Daniele Suzuki who plays an interesting role in the film introduced the pic tonight at Tribeca Cinemas.

CineFest Brasil NY 2010 - Blue Eyes

2010-06-06T23:55:00.010-04:00

Olhos Azuis (Blue Eyes) tells the story of Marshall (David Rasche), Chief Immigration Officer at New York's JFK Airport. Faced with mandatory retirement, Marshall's last day of work is spent intoxicated and filled with prejudice. Along with his two subordinate officers, he interrogates and humiliates a group of Latin American visitors. During the course of the day, his hatred becomes increasingly intense ultimately resulting in the death of a young Brazilian, Nonato (Irandhir Santos). Some years later, Marshall, having served a lengthy prison term and stricken with grief, sets off a self-loathing journey across Brazil in search of Nonato's young daughter. Along the way, he meets up with and is aided by the lovely Bia (Cristina Lago). The film brilliantly parallels between Marshall's last day of work, his prison stay and his trip across Brazil. The film has a diverse cast and the casting of American vet actor David Rasche in the role of Marshall must be applauded. The character of Marshall is so well written and Rasche pulls it off effortlessly. On the one hand, he is an American doing the job asked of him to protect his country from any potential danger that a foreigner may present. On the other hand, he is still human and very much empathetic to those wanting a better life (although at times this seems hardly visible). Olhos Azuis is directed by José Joffily and stars David Rasche, Cristina Lago, Irandhir Santos, Erica Gimpel and Frank Grillo. Certainly one of my favorite Brazilian (or should I say inherently Latin American) films to date, the film tonight was introduced by David Rasche.

CineFest Brasil NY 2010 - Head On A Platter

2010-06-06T23:50:00.003-04:00

The Menezes are a powerful family of animal breeders from the Midwest who have always been at the helm of all illegal dealings in the region. In recent times, they have watched the system that protected them for so many years slowly disintegrate. Mirão Menezes (played by Fúlvio Stefanini) lives at the mercy of the drug-trafficking industry, the ever-encroaching authorities and the constant and violent power struggle with his brother Abílio (Otavio Muller). Mirão’s daughter Elaine (Alice Braga, niece of the legendary Sonia Braga) becomes involved with her father’s pilot Denis (Daniel Hendler), finds herself pregnant and decides to flee with him after her Uncle Abílio bribes them. Brito (Eduardo Moscovis), the hitman sent to find the couple and finish them off, is coincidentally also victim of a love story. This film marks Marco Ricca's Directorial Debut. Fresh off winning "Best Film" last month at the Los Angeles Brazilian Film Festival, Cabeça a Premio (Head On A Platter) made its NY Premiere tonight to a packed audience at Tribeca Cinemas. A film of intrigue, power, betrayal and love, viewers were kept at the edge of their seats.

CineFest Brasil NY 2010 - Mamonas 4-Ever

2010-06-05T23:55:00.008-04:00

Mamonas Pra Sempre (Mamonas 4-Ever) is definitely a film worth seeing. I have been a fan of the group Mamonas Assassinas ever since I picked up a copy of their 1995 self-titled album. Although often incorporating various styles such as Forro, Pagode and Heavy Metal into their music, they are at their core a Rock band. This film tells the story of five guys who came together to become one of Brazil's most influential and popular groups of all time. Intricately woven is vintage footage of the group as well as posthumous interviews with family, friends and professional acquaintances. The group's five members are: Alecsander Alves (a.k.a. Dinho), Alberto Hinoto (a.k.a. Bento Hinoto), Júlio César Barbosa (a.k.a. Júlio Rasec) and brothers Sérgio and Samuel Reis de Oliveira (who adopted the professional surname Reoli - an abbreviation of their name). Through the film, we learn of the group's journey starting out as struggling artists under the band name "Utopia". Utopia was active for a few years until they put out an album which failed miserably not meeting sales expectations. At the suggestions of those around them, they began to experiment more with their sound and lyrics. Their lyrics, sound and even look took on a more extremely satirical tone. With this new comedic musical styling, they found quick commercial success and thus Mamonas Assassinas was born. Just under a year later, their sudden rise came to a tragic fall as all of the members perished in a tragic accident while on tour. Their impact, however, during this brief period is felt immensely by Brazilians worldwide and continues to live on today through their music. When all is said and done, Mamonas Pra Sempre is a story of five very talented musicians always seeking to define themselves while re-defining themselves every step of the way.

8th Annual CineFest Brasil Opens Tonight At Tribeca Cinemas

2010-06-05T00:01:00.003-04:00

New Yorkers (& out-of-towners) have something to be very excited about as the CineFest Petrobras Brasil kicks off its weeklong Film Festival tonight at downtown venue Tribeca Cinemas. The festival is back for its eighth inception and promises to deliver more Brazilian culture and flavor than of fests past. Opening Night starts off with the film, The Well Beloved One (O Bem Amado) followed by the premieres of Straight To The Point (Onde A Coruja Dorme), Time Of Peace (Tempos De Paz) and Mamonas 4-Ever (Mamonas Pra Sempre). All screenings (except Closing Night) will take place at Tribeca Cinemas with an afterparty immediately following in the adjacent Tribeca Lounge where guests will be able to enjoy the various styles of Brazilian music courtesy of DJ Marcelo Brasil.

In addition to highlighting the latest in Brazilian Cinema, this year's fest will be celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the country's capital, Brasilia. An exhibition of Brasilia's construction and evolution will be on display at Tribeca Cinemas. Brasilia was built by famous architects Oscar Niemeyer and Lucio Costa. The story behind this is told in the film, Oscar Niemeyer - Life Is A Blow. The film is set to be the Closing Night film and will be screened outdoors at Central Park's Summerstage. This year the festival departs from its traditional routine of having their Summerstage event occur on Opening Night. Kicking off Summerstage will be the presentation of the Crystal Lens Award to the best Feature Film as voted by the public as well as a concert with performers Paralamas Do Sucesso and Maria Gadu. For more on CineFest Brasil and to purchase tickets, log on to www.brazilianfilmfestival.com.

The Next American Idol

2010-05-26T22:10:00.006-04:00

5/26/10
The Next American Idol is.......... LEE DEWYZE. The night was a bit more tame than Idol Finales past. It included visits from many artists past and present. The homage to departing judge and creator Simon Cowell included video montages of various "Simon Moments" from the shows history. Simon was seemingly humble and perhaps a little choked up when former judge, Paula Abdul stopped by for a few words to her dear friend. Then, former IDOL winners (oddly minus David Cook) and former Finalists (dressed in white) took the stage and sang the classic "We Are One". All and all it was a fitting finale mainly dedicated to a man who has helped foster the new careers of many singing hopefuls. The only question that remains at this time is: Who will replace Simon on the panel?

American IDOL - The Final Two (Performances)

2010-05-25T21:10:00.005-04:00

5/25/10
Tonight, it is down to the FINAL TWO on the Finale of American Idol. We have Lee DeWyze Vs. Crystal Bowersox. Both of them are 24 years old and both of them auditioned for the show in Chicago. Two totally different walks of life and two totally different sounds - Lee is more of the rocker and Crystal is more a songbird. Both stand an equal chance at the crossing the finish line. Let us breakdown tonight's finale:

Lee DeWyze
Round 1 - Contestant's Favorite: "The Boxer" by Simon And Garfunkel
- Thumbs Up. He sang this song previously during "Inspirational Songs" week and tonight he pulled it off again. This is the type of song that suits him well. Randy claimed he could have had more energy. Ellen is very proud of him and says he did it better 2nd time around. Kara called him "connected to the song". Simon called it a "kiss on the cheek" as compared to a "kiss on the lips".
Round 2 - Executive Producer, Simon Fuller's Choice: "Everybody Hurts" by R.E.M.
- Thumbs Up. The judges all liked it and feel he went off a bit vocally from moment-to-moment.
Round 3 - First Single: "Beautiful Day" by U2
- Thumbs Up. He made this song his own and this will be his first single should he win the title tomorrow night. Randy & Ellen like it. Kara feels he got "swallowed up" by the song. Simon wishes Lee the best.

Crystal Bowersox
Round 1 - Contestant's Favorite: "Me & Bobby McGee" by Janis Joplin
- Thumbs Up. Crystal is absolutely in her element accompanied by her trusty guitar whaling out some Joplin. She first sang this song during "Billboard Number 1s" week. Randy says he hopes she a "record like that". Ellen calls her "compelling on stage". Kara loved it the first time and she loves it tonight. Kara says "you have fire in your belly". Simon reminisces about the first time the judges fell in love with her. Simon says she is "back at her best" and declares it a competition.
Round 2 - Executive Producer, Simon Fuller's Choice: "Black Velvet" by Alannah Myles
- Thumbs Up. Mama Sox belted out this song which fits her style completely. She sang it before but even better tonight. Randy claims "Mama Sox is in it to win it". Ellen calls it "Fan-tastic". Kara praises her and Simon says "you absolutely nailed it".
Round 3 - First Single: "Up To The Mountain" by Patty Griffin
- Thumbs Up. Randy calls it an "amazing performance". Ellen says "you are in a league of your own". Kara calls her "emotionally invested in that song". Before letting Simon give his critique, Crystal takes a moment to thank him for all his criticism over the season and wholeheartedly wishes him well on all his future endeavors. Simon is moved by the sentiment calls her performance "the best of the night" and "outstanding".

Clearly, Crystal is the one who stands ahead a few steps in tonight's performances. I predicted Crystal to be a frontrunner since the beginning. Considering she suffered a minor health scare this season and almost chose to walk away from the competition (on her own accord), it would be fitting if she wins. All this aside, I think Lee has shown more growth within the competition itself. Though his performances were not as strong as Crystal's tonight, I am predicting that LEE DEWYZE will be the Next American Idol. We will find out on tomorrow night's Results show who will take home the title from reigning IDOL Kris Allen and what surprises the show has in store for Simon's last episode. Also, there are rumors floating around that Paula Abdul will stop by. Tune in.

IDOL Top 3 - Results

2010-05-19T22:00:00.010-04:00

5/19/10
The Results are in and America has spoken. They have chosen the Final Two. More video of the Hometown visits was shown tonight. The first person safe is Lee DeWyze. Casey James is then sent home leaving Crystal Bowersox safe. My predictions this week were "spot on".

CRYSTAL BOWERSOX
VS.
LEE DEWYZE

One of these two will be the next American Idol. Tune in Next Tuesday Night and don't forget to vote, vote, vote.

IDOL Top 3 - Performances

2010-05-18T22:00:00.005-04:00

5/18/10
Okay, here we go. We are down to the Semi-Finals on American Idol. Our Top 3 are Casey James, Crystal Bowersox & Lee DeWyze. Tonight, each of the IDOLS had to perform two songs - one chosen by themselves & the other chosen by the Judges. They were first alerted of the Judges song choice via AT&T TXT message while on the visit to their respective Hometowns. Let's break-it-down:

Casey James
His Song Choice - "OK, It's Alright With Me" by Eric Hutchinson
- Thumbs Down. He picks a song that no one is truly familiar with and his performance lacks. The judges criticize him heavily for this hoping he will do better in his next performance.
Judges Song Choice [chosen by Randy & Kara] - "Daughters" by John Mayer
- Thumbs Up. Good choice for him. The judges like it except Simon commented that it did not have the "Wow factor". The judges countered Simon's commentary saying that the song is not made for high notes.

Crystal Bowersox
Her Song Choice - "Come To My Window" by Melissa Etheridge
- Thumbs Up. Very appropriate song choice. It is the type of song that fits within her artistry. Although agreeing that it is not her best performance on such a crucial night, the judges praise her for making the smart choice in song selection. Judges Song Choice [chosen by Ellen] - "Maybe I'm Amazed" by Paul McCartney
- Thumbs Up. A song that exposed the range of her vocals and it paid off. She was also unaccompanied by an instrument and it still worked. The judges were amazed and Simon told her she'd be thanking Ellen for "putting her in the final".

Lee DeWyze
His Song Choice - "Simple Man" by Lynyrd Skynyrd
- Thumbs Up. Tremendous applause from the audience for a great performance. Randy declares him as "someone who can win this". Ellen & Kara praised his growth throughout the competition. Simon declares his song choice "on the money" and says that not only did he win Round 1, he "crushed the other two". I agree.
Judges Song Choice [chosen by Simon] - "Hallelujah" by Leonard Cohen / Jeff Buckley
- Thumbs Up. Awesome soulful performance. Good song choice by Simon to give Lee his "moment". Randy calls it the "biggest moment in his career". Ellen called it "stunning". Kara says "you are what this show is about and you owned the night". Simon calls him "a fantastic singer and a great person".

My vote for the night clearly goes to the one who performed the best and that person is Lee DeWyze. I predict that it will be the end of the road for Casey James tomorrow night. Tune in to the Results.

IDOL Top 4 - Results

2010-05-12T22:00:00.005-04:00

5/12/10
Tonight's IDOL included performances by Alums Fantasia and Daughtry as well as rocker Bon Jovi. More importantly, however, were the emotional results. The families of the Top 4 were seated on the couches on stage. The first person sent back to safety was Casey James. The next person safe was Lee DeWyze. This left Michael Lynche & Crystal Bowersox remaining as the bottom two. A bit of a shocker considering I believed that they were the "Top 2" in my mind based on last night's performances and overall progress throughout the competition. Between these two, I would guess that Crystal would be going home. Unfortunately, I was wrong. Dubbed this season's "velvet teddy bear", the ax has fallen and Michael Lynche (A.K.A. "Big Mike") was sent packing. Joined by the other IDOLS and their families, Mike gave one more farewell performance. Giving a more powerful and emotional performance (considering it is his swan song), he once again performed Michael Jackson's "Will You Be There". Everyone was sad to see him go and he bid each IDOL and judge and Ryan a fond farewell and concluded by embracing his wife and newborn baby girl on stage. We are down to the Top 3 now. They are Casey James, Crystal Bowersox and Lee DeWyze. Next week, they each visit their respective hometown's for a celebration in their honor as they move one step closer to becoming thee next American Idol. At this stage, I am betting on Crystal to win the whole thing.

IDOL Top 4 - Performances

2010-05-11T21:00:00.011-04:00

5/11/10
The IDOLS took the stage tonight singing the songs of the silver screen. Music has had a significant impact on film throughout the history of Hollywood. Who better to mentor the contestants than stage and screen star (and IDOL 2nd year mentor) Jamie Foxx. The contestants performed solos and duets. Breaking it down, here we go:
Lee DeWyze - "Kiss From A Rose" by Seal [1995, featured in "Batman Forever"]
- Thumbs Down. His vocals were crazy and all over the place. Definitely, it was not his best performance and he may be in jeopardy and all the judges agree.
Michael Lynche - "Will You Be There" by Michael Jackson [1993, featured in "Free Willy"]
- Thumbs Up. Decent performance by the favorite, certainly not his best nor a "Wow" performance. All of the judges felt he was lacking something and that it was predictable.
Lee DeWyze & Crystal Bowersox - "Falling Slowly" by current Idol Kris Allen [from the film "Once"]
- Thumbs Up. Both playing on guitar, they gave a warm performance. Randy loved it calling it "a hit" and "amazing". Ellen loved it. Kara loved the chemistry and felt that they brought out the best in each other. Simon called it "fantastic".
Casey James - "Mrs. Robinson" by Simon & Garfunkel [in 1967s "The Graduate"]
- Thumbs Down. It was just okay, a little bit sleepy and boring. None of the judges were super impressed. Simon thought it lacked "substance" and "an impact".
Crystal Bowersox - "I'm All Right" by Kenny Loggins [in 1980 comedy classic "Caddyshack"]
- Thumbs Up. True performance. All the judges loved it declaring her "an artist" and "back in the game".
Casey James & Michael Lynche - "Have You Ever Really Loved A Woman?" by Bryan Adams [1995, featured in "Don Juan DeMarco"]
- Thumbs Up. Both playing guitar, these two delivered an awesome rendition of this classic song. The judges loved it. Kara & Simon both claim that tonight's Duets were better than the Solo performances. I agree.

For the second week in a row, my vote tonight goes to Michael Lynche. My prediction for the bottom two tomorrow night is Lee DeWyze & Casey James. I also predict that it will be the end for Lee DeWyze. I want what I predict that most IDOL-watchers want for the Final Two and that is a showdown between Big Mike & Crystal. It is remniscent of last years finale where everyone was hoping for a showdown between Adam & Kris and that's exactly what we got. Will we have an equally-epic finale this time around? Who will go home tomorrow night? Tune in to the Results show where Daughtry and Bon Jovi will both perform.

IDOL Top 5 - Results

2010-05-05T22:05:00.002-04:00

05/05/10
Dim the lights. Here we go. Lee is the first one safe. The remaining four are split into groups of two: Casey & Crystal in one and Mike & Aaron in the other. Michael Lynche and Aaron Kelly are named the bottom two. Between these two, my hope is that Aaron is going home. No matter how you slice it: whether based on last night's performance or overall progress, I think that Michael has come further in his journey than Aaron. After the nationwide vote, it is revealed that Aaron Kelly is going home. I correctly predicted that Aaron would be a bottom vote-getter, but didn't think he would necessarily go home. He was the youngest contestant remaining at the age of 17 and has an entire future ahead of him. He sings out the show once again performing Sinatra's "Fly Me To The Moon". The Final Four are: Casey James, Crystal Bowersox, Lee DeWyze & Michael Lynche. Who do you think will be the next American Idol?

Happy Cinco De Mayo!

2010-05-05T12:35:00.000-04:00

HAPPY CINCO DE MAYO!

IDOL Top 5 - My Picks

2010-05-05T12:00:00.001-04:00

05/05/10
Before tonight's results, here is a recap of my IDOL picks for this week:
My Vote: Michael Lynche
Bottom Three: Aaron Kelly, Casey James & Crystal Bowersox
Going Home: Casey James

IDOL Top 5 - Performances

2010-05-04T22:00:00.005-04:00

5/04/10
Harry Connick, Jr. mentors the American Idols in singing songs by Frank Sinatra. Dubbed the "original American Idol", Sinatra's career has spanned over six decades and is a source of inspiration for the hopefuls this week. Their mentor not only helps them with their vocals, but also utilizes his expertise as a composer helping them with their arrangements. Harry brings along his band to the IDOL stage and performs with each of the contestants. Let us break-it-down:
Aaron Kelly - "Fly Me To The Moon"
- Thumbs Down. Parts of his performance felt like overkill. It was as if the song is too "big" for him. He is only 16 and should not take on such a big song. Kara & Simon share this sentiment and are not convinced. Randy & Ellen, however, loved it.
Casey James - "Blue Skies"
- Thumbs Down. Had a boring performance and tone. He looked very un-natural and uncomfortable with this genre. All the judges did not like his performance.
Crystal Bowersox - "Summer Wind"
- Thumbs Up. Beautiful voice and tone. Very comfortable on stage, puts on a dress and fills the role of songstress nicely and the vocals match. Interesting arrangement. Randy calls it "sleepy". Ellen & Kara love it. Simon calls it "indulgent" and implores her to be "in it to win it" going forward should she survive.
Michael Lynche - "The Way You Look Tonight"
- Thumbs Up. A natural selection for Big Mike. Good vocals and nice interpretation of this classic song. Randy calls the arrangement "unbelievable". Ellen says he is the most comfortable on stage and has lots of charisma. Kara praises him for not "losing himself" in the song. Simon loves it and claims that Mike is "back in the game".
Lee DeWyze - "That's Life"
- Thumbs Up. Good performance and arrangement. Randy

My vote tonight goes to Michael Lynche for capturing Sinatra's essence. My prediction for the bottom three is Aaron Kelly, Casey James & Crystal Bowersox. I predict that Casey James will be sent home tomorrow night. Stay Tuned.

IDOL Top 6 - Results

2010-04-28T22:00:00.003-04:00

4/28/10
The bottom three tonight were Michael Lynche, Casey James & Siobhan Magnus. Naturally, the first person sent back to safety is Big Mike. Siobhan Magnus is the one voted off. Based on my picks this week, I correctly predicted two of the bottom three. Now only five hopefuls remain as we inch closer and closer to naming this years American Idol.

IDOL Top 6 - My Picks

2010-04-27T22:00:00.003-04:00

4/27/10
Mentored by country music's queen Shania Twain, the American Idols took the stage tonight singing her songs. The competition was fierce as there was not really anyone who performed "badly", however, these are my IDOL picks for this week:
My Vote: Lee DeWyze
Bottom Three: Casey James, Michael Lynche & Aaron Kelly
Going Home: Aaron Kelly

Tomorrow night we crown the Top 5. Tune in.

IDOL Top 7 - Results

2010-04-21T22:15:00.000-04:00

4/21/10
There was a whole lotta IDOL this week as the Top 7 performed last night and Idol aired its special Idol Gives Back episode tonight alongside the results. This week, the Top 7 were mentored by Alicia Keys in singing "inspirational songs". There was really no grey area with the contestants. They were either good or bad. The bottom three were Tim Urban, Aaron Kelly and Casey James. Based on their performances, this was an accurate vote by America in my opinion. Tim Urban was voted off. As you may recall, Tim was a last minute replacement receiving a call from American Idol Executive Producer Ken Warwick to replace disqualified hopeful Chris Golightly in rounding out the Top 24. The six who remain are: Aaron Kelly, Casey James, Crystal Bowersox, Lee DeWyze, Michael Lynche & Siobhan Magnus.

Happy One Year Birthday, Director Uncut! :)

2010-04-20T12:00:00.002-04:00

DIRECTOR UNCUT - Born April 20th, 2009
www.directoruncut.com

Today April 20th, 2010, marks one year since I created and started this Blog. What initially had started out as an outlet to exercise my creative writing has turned into a sought after and popular Entertainment Review medium. Utilizing multiple websites/social networking sites, I have expanded and made Director Uncut into a brand. DIRECTOR UNCUT is also on Twitter, YouTube, Vimeo, Ustream and Kyte. It continues to grow on the daily and who knows what the future holds. Thank You for supporting, reading and following along my adventures. In honor of the one-year mark, I am reposting below my very first blog entry which was a review of the 10th Annual New York Havana Film Festival and its premiere of PartyTime: The Movie.

"PartyTime: The Movie" Premiere Screening @ HFF (04/20/09)

The Venue & Festival:
Upon viewing a link to the Official website for the 10th Annual NY Havana Film Festival, I decided to attend. Being that they have a short selection of films to choose from (about 15 or so), it did not take long to read through the descriptions and determine which films peak my interest. I read about this movie called "Party Time" and decided to go on a rainy Monday night (04/20). When arriving at Quad Cinemas, you would not even notice that there is a Film Festival going on - especially one celebrating its 10th Anniversary.

Barely-legal size posters adorn the front doors to the theatre along with a few on the inside. As you make your way further into the small lobby of this "artsy" theatre, you are somewhat greeted by two festival staffers manning a table with flyers and other promotional materials. When I use the term "artsy", I speak of an already small (in size) theatre with four screens - only one of which is dedicated to the Festival while the other three show less popular, non-commercial, "artsy"-type flicks...and the seats were on the small side as well. The rooms themselves seat about 100 each and the room was surprisingly barely half-full. I am use to larger-scale Festivals like the New York International Latino Film Festival, where you may have at times what seems like an entire city block closed off, a lots of commotion and tons of excitement in the air. This was not that kind of festival - certainly did not embody the word "Festive". For a film having its NY (& U.S.) Premiere, I expected a larger turnout. There were about 40 of us total in attendance including Director, Cast & Crew. Putting aside my disappointment in the Festival itself, I thoroughly enjoyed the film by miles. What the Havana Film Festival lacked in presentation, it made up for in showing this particular film.

About The Film:
PARTY TIME: THE MOVIE is a Film that takes place in 1989 Puerto Rico in a local High School. Through extensive research & also a self-examination of his roots, Director Juanma Fernandez brings to the big screen this brilliant piece of work that reflects how life was as a Puerto Rican teen growing up in the 80s. In the High School, you have two rival cliques: those who are steadfast in keeping the Salsa tradition going (the "cocolos") and those who are opposed. Those who are opposed follow "New Wave" - an Americanized way of life defined by House/Top 40-type music. Those listening to Salsa are considered "ghetto" and low-class. Those following New Wave are considered more respectable and somewhat upper-class. A perfect example of the politics involved in democratizing what is appropriate and what-is-not is reflected in the film through the Principal's constant resistance in allowing Salsa to be played on school grounds. It is your traditional tale of Boy meets Girl (Salsa "cocolo" Vs. New Wave), Boy falls for Girl, but does he get her in the end? Clearly, I am not going to reveal that here. You will have to see for yourself. This movie will definitely not disappoint. A brief Q&A with the Director after the film revealed that the film took "up to ten years" to come to post. Also, Fernandez divulges that a 2-disc DVD (one Disc being The Soundtrack) is indeed in the works. The movie includes an amazing collection of some of the best 80s American and Salsa music ever made (i.e. El Gran Combo). I posed the question, "Will we see Party Time in other Film Festivals?" The short answer - "Chicago Latino Film Festival and YES".

PARTY TIME: THE MOVIE Trailer

IDOL Top 9 ReduX - Results

2010-04-14T22:00:00.000-04:00

4/14/10
The votes on IDOL have been counted and this is a crucial week as we go down from nine contestants to seven contestants. The Judge's SAVE last week left favorite contender Michael Lynche in the competition. Last night he redeemed himself favorably with the judges when he performed Elvis' "In The Ghetto". Aaron, Casey & Andrew are the first called down to the stage by Ryan. Between the three of them, Ryan immediately tells Andrew that "its the end of the road". Andrew Garcia is done and he sings his swan song. Then, the remaining five (sans Aaron & Casey) are called to the stage. They are sent back to safety one-by-one in the following order: Crystal, Siobhan, Lee and Tim. The last two kept waiting are Michael and Katie. One is going home and the other was not even in the bottom three. It is no surprise that between the two of them Katie Stevens is sent home. There was no formal "bottom three" this week. Katie says goodbye by singing her rendition of The Beatles' "Let It Be". To recap, Andrew Garcia & Katie Stevens go home tonight. Looks like my predictions did not pan out this week. Next week, the IDOLS perform "inspirational songs" on Tuesday and on Wednesday it's "Idol Gives Back" and one more contestant is eliminated.

IDOL Top 9 ReduX - My Picks

2010-04-13T22:05:00.001-04:00

4/13/10
Mentored by last season's Adam Lambert, the American Idols took the stage tonight singing the songs of Elvis Presley. These are my IDOL picks for this week:
My Vote: Lee DeWyze
Bottom Three: Tim Urban, Aaron Kelly & Casey James
Going Home: Tim Urban & Casey James

Tomorrow Night, two IDOLS dreams will end (for now).

IDOL Top 9 - Results

2010-04-07T22:15:00.001-04:00

4/7/10
America has voted. The bottom three IDOLS are Michael Lynche, Aaron Kelly and Andrew Garcia. The first person sent back to safety is Aaron. Now we come down to Mike vs. Andrew. The person with the least amount of votes is Michael Lynche. Performing for the judges one last time, they are unanimous in using "THE SAVE". Michael Lynche is SAFE another week. It's ironic that for one of Big Mike's better performances, America did not pick up the phone for him as much as they should have this week. He has been a very strong contender since the beginning and in my opinion continues to be. I am glad the judges have saved him. Let us see what he pulls off next week. Also, Katie (after being in the bottom three for the past two weeks) finally came through and gave her best performance to date. As the numbers narrow down, it gets more and more difficult to predict who will go home each week. My prediction was that Tim would go home based on his performance last night, which was karaoke in nature and reminiscent of something you would see at a wedding. Just okay. Based on my picks this week, I Correctly predicted that Aaron would be in the bottom three. Nine contestants remain once again. Two will be sent home next week.

IDOL Top 9 - My Picks

2010-04-06T22:15:00.003-04:00

4/6/10
Tonight the American Idols took the stage performing songs by John Lennon and Paul McCartney. Here are my IDOL picks for this week:
My Vote: Katie Stevens
Bottom Three: Aaron Kelly, Tim Urban, Lee DeWyze
Going Home: Tim Urban

How will America vote? Find out tomorrow night.

IDOL Top 10 - Results

2010-03-31T22:00:00.000-04:00

3/31/10
America has voted on IDOL. The bottom three tonight are Katie Stevens, Didi Benami and Tim Urban. The first person sent back to safety is Katie. This is her second week being in the bottom three and then being sent back to safety. Now we are down to Didi vs. Tim. Didi Benami is voted out. She performs for her life one more time hoping that the judges will use "THE SAVE" on her, but they DO NOT. Based on my picks this week, I Correctly predicted not only two of the bottom three, but also that Didi would be sent packing. Nine Contestants remain. Tune in Next Tuesday.

IDOL Top 10 - My Picks

2010-03-31T12:35:00.003-04:00

3/31/10
Last Night on IDOL, the contestants mentored by Usher performed songs from the Soul and R&B genres. Here are my IDOL picks for this week:
My Vote: Lee DeWyze
Bottom Three: Siobhan Magnus, Didi Benami, Tim Urban
Going Home: Didi Benami - performed Jimmy Ruffin's "What Becomes Of The Brokenhearted". Not my initial pick (out of my predicted bottom three) for "Going Home", but America has got an odd way of voting lately. Let's see.

Special Kudos to Andrew Garcia for finally "waking up" and performing a kick-ass acoustic version of Chris Brown's "Forever". Welcome back Andrew. Who will be next to go? Tune in tonight.

Jersey Housewives Are Back!

2010-03-30T17:00:00.012-04:00

The Real Housewives Of New Jersey are back and still "thick as thieves" (most of them). Season One of the Bravo series hit store shelves on DVD today and is also available for order online. The DVD includes all six original episodes plus the Director's Cut of the dramatic finale, the two-part Reunion and a Lost Footage special. The Jersey incarnation of the Real Housewives franchise has been the network's highest rated and most popular to date. What is it about the Jersey Girls that make people want to watch them more than the other first ladies of Bravo (Orange County, New York City & Atlanta)? With the upcoming editions of Washington D.C. and Beverly Hills soon to be released, will the Jersey Girls remain the reigning Housewives of Bravo? Only time will tell. Join Jacqueline, Teresa, Danielle, Dina & Caroline as they and their families return for a second season starting May 3rd. Monday Nights will be filled with some Jersey drama. Here is a sneak peek:

IDOL Top 11 - Results

2010-03-24T22:00:00.001-04:00

3/24/10
America has voted. The bottom three tonight are Paige Miles, Tim Urban and Katie Stevens. The first person sent back to safety is Katie. Now it's between Paige & Tim. Paige Miles is sent home. Before she even gets to sing her swan song, Ryan turns it over to Simon for "words of encouragement". Simon starts with letting Paige know that regardless of how she sings right now, they will NOT use "THE SAVE" on her. Ryan confirms this with the panel and they all agree. Although he was not sent packing this week, I did correctly predict Tim being in the bottom three. The TOP TEN are left on IDOL. Next week, they take on the genres of Soul and R&B under the guidance of superstar Usher.

IDOL Top 11 - My Picks

2010-03-24T12:00:00.003-04:00

3/24/10
Last Night on American Idol, the contestants had to perform '#1 songs' from the Billboard charts and were mentored by teen sensation Miley Cyrus. Here are my IDOL Picks for this week:
My Vote: Crystal Bowersox
Bottom Three: Tim Urban, Andrew Garcia, Didi Benami
Going Home: Tim Urban - did a very karaoke, cheesy version of "Crazy Little Thing Called Love". I think this season's "last-minute-replacement" is leaving.

The Top Ten get to go on the American Idol Tour starting in the Summer. Tune in Tonight for the Results and performances by Miley Cyrus & Joe Jonas and Demi Lovato.

IDOL Top 12 - Results

2010-03-17T22:10:00.001-04:00

3/17/10
The bottom three tonight was Paige Miles, Tim Urban and Lacey Brown. I was surprised that the first person sent back to safety was Tim. According to my predictions last night, I felt that he had the worst performance of these three. Now, it 's between Paige and Lacey. Between these two, my next guess is Lacey - and I am correct. It is not over yet. The Judges are able to use "THE SAVE" which would allow them to overturn America's Vote and keep that person another week. This means that two people would go home next week. She performs okay while the judges huddle and talk. They DO NOT save her. Lacey Brown goes home. Although my prediction was Incorrect, at least my prediction did end up in the bottom three.

IDOL Top 12 - Performances

2010-03-16T22:15:00.006-04:00

3/16/10
Tonight, the IDOL Top 12 performed songs by the iconic Rolling Stones. The video intros are back showing us the contestants life outside IDOL. Let's break-it-down:

Michael Lynche - "Miss You"
- Thumbs Up. He kicks off the show with a good performance. All the judges had positive feedback. Simon indicates he may have been a tiny bit "desperate" and his dancing corny.
Didi Benami - "Play With Fire"
- Thumbs Up. She has this interesting accent in her voice that you can hear if you listen closely. She is very singer/songwriter-esque kinda like a songbird similar to Corinne Bailey Rae. All the judges liked it.
Casey James - "It's All Over Now"
- Thumbs Down. It wasn't a "Wow" performance. He played the guitar. Kara dubbed it "your best performance since we met". Simon wasn't totally in agreement with the rest of the panel and wanted more.
Lacey Brown - "Ruby Tuesday" [circa 1967]
- Thumbs Up. She did a very melodic and soothing rendition of the song. The judges were not impressed. Simon says she "performs like an actress" and "over thinks it".
Andrew Garcia - "Gimme Shelter"
- Thumbs Down. Just pack your bags already. No growth here. Hard to say, because he was an early favorite, but has shown no significant improvement enough to stay in the competition. Randy says "it was pitchy everywhere". Ellen called it "best performance yet". Kara felt the song had no connection. Simon was on the fence, predicts that it was probably better in rehearsal (didn't come through in the performance) and hopes Andrew survives another week.
Katie Stevens - "Wild Horses"
- Thumbs Up. The youngest female in the competition gave a strong performance tonight. She is has such an amazing voice and is somewhat of a dark horse (ironically singing a song called "Wild Horses"). Very good praises all around from all the judges.
Tim Urban - "Under My Thumb"
- Thumbs Down. Playing the guitar, he did a very boring and weird reggae rendition of the song. It was something you would hear at a resort or a karaoke bar while your out drinking with your buddies. Randy & Ellen were unimpressed. Kara (although agreeing with Randy & Ellen mentally) gave him a compliment applauding him on making the song his own. Simon piggybacking on Kara's comment applauded him for "doing some different" then criticized him calling it "a crazy decision". Send this kid home, please.
Siobhan Magnus - "Paint It Black"
- Thumbs Up. She did a very dark and theatrical performance. Excellent interpretation. Very cool. She has a unique vocal ability. Judges loved it calling it the best performance of the night and it reminded them of last season's Adam Lambert. I didn't like her early on, but she seems to be growing on me.
Lee Dewyze - "Beast Of Burden"
- Thumbs Up. Good performance. He is one with his guitar. Reminds me of Hootie (minus the Blowfish). The judges all like his growth and feel strongly about his voice, but feel he has a low-key personality.
Paige Miles - "Honky Tonk Woman"
- Thumbs Up. Very soul-full voice. All the judges were favorable with their comments.
Aaron Kelly - "Angie"
- Thumbs Up. Probably another "dark horse" in the competition, the two youngest contestants. All judges liked it.
Crystal Bowersox - "You Can't Always Get What You Want"
- Thumbs Up. On guitar, she did a very cool version of this song. The judges all favored her despite a few minor flaws here and there.

My Vote Tonight goes to Siobhan Magnus for delivering a true performance. My prediction for who is going home tomorrow night is split between either Tim Urban (for tonight's boring performance) or Andrew Garcia (for not improving much since Hollywood Week).

IDOL Top 16 - Night 3 (Results)

2010-03-11T22:00:00.004-05:00

3/11/10
America has voted. The two Guys going home are Toddrick Hall & Alex Lambert. The two Ladies going home are Katelynn Epperly & Lilly Scott. Dim the lights. Blog on. Let's break-it-down:
Katelynn Epperly - was sent home over Paige Miles. I predicted both of them would go home this week. I was only half right. Paige has shown consistency. Katelynn has been more of a "one-trick pony". One week she's off. Next week she's on and so forth.
Toddrick Hall - was sent home over Lee. I guess Lee was more consistent week to week, but Toddrick had a decent performance this week.
Alex Lambert - was sent home over Andrew Garcia. Don't know about this one. So, Andrew gets another shot. He definitely better bring it next week or else go home. He has had ample opportunity to live up to his "Straight Up" performance.
Lilly Scott - was sent home over Katie Stevens. America definitely got this one wrong. Lilly deserved a spot in the Top 12.
Also, there was a duel side-by-side piano performance of Billy Joel's "Tell Her About It" by last season contestants Scott MacIntyre & Matt Giraud. It was okay. Matt finally got rid of that giant zit he had been rockin' on his forehead last season. They both indicated to Ryan that they are working on their respective albums.

Based on my predictions this week, I was 50% correct. I accurately predicted the departures of Katelynn Epperly & Alex Lambert. Next Week your IDOLS perform songs by the Rolling Stones. Your TOP 12 IDOLS are:
Aaron Kelly
Andrew Garcia
Casey James
Crystal Bowersox
Didi Benami
Katie Stevens
Lacey Brown
Lee Dewyze
Michael Lynche
Paige Miles
Siobhan Magnus
Tim Urban

IDOL Top 16 - My Picks

2010-03-11T12:00:00.009-05:00

3/11/10
I caught last night's episode today. Instead of breaking down the Guys performances, here is simply a Recap of my IDOL Picks for this week:

Top 16 Night 1 (Ladies)
My Vote: Crystal Bowersox
Going Home: Paige Miles & Katelynn Epperly

Top 16 - Night 2 (Guys)
My Vote: Michael Lynche - Excellent performance last night. Reminded me of Jamie Foxx's swagger when taking the stage. Brought Kara to tears. Wow! Simon says "Best performance of all the LIVE show performances so far".
Going Home: Andrew Garcia & Alex Lambert or Aaron Kelly
Andrew has not been able to live up to the standard he set when he performed his own killer acoustic version of Paula Abdul's "Straight Up" during Hollywood Week. He set the bar so high and now he is just coming off looking desperate.
I am 50/50 between predicting that either Alex or Aaron will go home this week. It definitely should not be any of the other Guys.
Tim Urban who was the last minute replacement for the Top 24 has shown improvement this week.

Tonight, the TOP 12 IDOLS are revealed. Scott MacIntyre and Matt Giraud from last season are scheduled to perform.

IDOL Top 16 - Night 1 (Ladies)

2010-03-09T21:15:00.011-05:00

3/9/10
IDOL being short on time and wanting to squeeze their Top 8 Ladies into an hourlong Broadcast opted to skip the Video "Intros" tonight. They got straight to the singing. Here is the rundown:
Katie Stevens - "This Is Seventeen" by Kelly Clarkson
- Thumbs Down. Nothing extraordinary. None of the judges were impressed.
Siobhan Magnus - "House Of The Rising Sun" by The Animals [circa 1964]
- Thumbs Up. Great accapella voice. Very melodic song. All judges loved it except Simon who was "under-impressed".
Lacey Brown - "The Story" by Brandi Carlile
- Thumbs Up. All judges loved it.
Katelyn Epperly - "I Feel The Earth Move" by Carole King
- Thumbs Down. She is okay. No "Wow" factor. No true performance like she did when she played piano last week. She is playing Keyboard tonight, but that didn't add any value to her performance. None of the judges were impressed.
Didi Benami - "Rhiannon" by Fleetwood Mac
- Thumbs Up. She hasn't brought her guitar to the stage since Hollywood Week and tonight it worked. Didi's vocals were good and so was her playing. The overall opinion of the judges is that she has improved since last week and they were thoroughly impressed. Only Randy Jackson did not believe she had a "WOW" moment tonight, but was somewhat impressed.
Paige Miles - "Smile" by Charlie Chaplin
- Thumbs Down. Taking on a classic, she did not really do anything with the song. It was sleepy and boring and out of tune. The judges completely shot her down and I completely agree. According to Simon, "It's the sort of thing you'd hear in the Holiday Inn in 1974". Ouch! The problem with her is that she has not found her identity and it may very well be too late.
Crystal Bowersox - "Gimme One Reason" by Tracy Chapman
- Thumbs Way Way Up. Another "HOT" Performance. Ellen said it and I totally agree, "Best Performance Of The Night". The judges raved about her calling her "the one to beat".
Lilly Scott - "I Fall To Pieces" by Patsy Kline
- Thumbs Up. The judges liked her, but Simon was a bit skeptical.

My Vote Tonight (without a doubt) goes to Crystal Bowersox. The two Ladies whom I believe will be sent packing on Thursday Night are Paige Miles & (sorta-sad-to-say) Katelynn Epperly. I was a fan of Katelynn after last week's performance, but tonight she let us all down.
Tomorrow Night at 9PM (EST) the Top 8 Guys take the stage.

IDOL Top 20 - Night 3 (The Results)

2010-03-04T21:05:00.003-05:00

3/4/10

The votes have been counted and tonight the ax has fallen and sent four more packing on IDOL. The two Guys going home are John Park & Jermaine Sellers. The two Ladies going home are Michelle Delamor & Haeley Vaughn. Dim the lights. Blog on. Let's break-it-down:

Haeley Vaughn - It is no surprise here. An early favorite, last night was horrible when she performed Miley Cyrus's "The Climb" and she did not show progressive improvement.

Michelle Delamor - Liked her. Had an Alicia Keys type vibe to her. Don't know why America did not agree. It came down to her and Didi Benami. Between the two of them (based on last night), Didi should have been the one to go.

John Park - Goodbye.

Jermaine Sellers - Honestly, between him and Andrew, this is a no-brainer. Andrew has been a front-runner since his kickass rendition of Paula Abdul's "Straight Up" that he performed during Hollywood Week. Perhaps Jermaine's bit of "tude" during his journey here has gotten the better of him. He wasn't horrible. Andrew was just better. Point blank.

Based on my predictions this week, I was only 50% right. I did predict the departure of John Park & Haeley Vaughn. Unfortunately, they will not be joined by Tim Urban & Siobhan Magnus as they walk out the studio. Till next week.

IDOL Top 20 - My Picks

2010-03-04T14:41:00.008-05:00

Before Tonight's Results, here is a Recap of my IDOL Picks for this week:

Top 20 - Night 1 (Guys)
My Vote: Michael Lynche
Going Home: John Park & Tim Urban

Top 20 - Night 2 (Ladies)
My Vote: Katelyn Epperly
Going Home: Haeley Vaughn & Siobhan Magnus

IDOL Top 20 - Night 2 (Ladies) Recap

2010-03-04T14:25:00.005-05:00

Last Night, the Ladies took the stage. It started with the recently-ill Crystal Bowersox who did better than she did last week. I'm gonna keep this entry short. Here's my rundown:
Crystal Bowersox - Thumbs Up
Haeley Vaughn - Thumbs Down
Lacey Brown - Thumbs Up
Katie Stevens - Thumbs Way Up
Didi Benami - Thumbs Down, Very Karaoke
Michelle Delamor - Thumbs Up
Lilly Scott - Thumbs Up
Katelyn Epperly - Thumbs Way Up
Paige Miles - Thumbs Down
Siobhan Magnus - Thumbs Down
My vote for the best of the night overall goes to Katelyn Epperly who took the stage playing the Piano singing "The Scientist" by Coldplay. With regard to the two ladies going home, I believe it is the end of the road for Haeley Vaughn and Siobhan Magnus (more so for Haeley). Haeley, an early favorite of mind, has not done anything different to stand out. No risk taking in the past two weeks and that very well may be her ultimate downfall. We will find out Tonight on the Results Show.

IDOL Top 20 - Night 1 (Guys) Recap

2010-03-02T22:24:00.008-05:00

3/2/10
Tonight, due to the sudden illness of contestant Crystal Bowersox, the Ladies and Guys Performance Nights were switched. I hope she gets better for tomorrow night's performance. She was my vote last week. Night 1 belonged to the Guys who for the most part did well. My vote went to Michael Lynche who sang his own rendition of "This Is A Man's World" by the godfather of soul, James Brown.

My prediction for the two guys going home this week is John Park & Tim Urban. The Ladies take the stage tomorrow night and Thursday Night, we go from Top 20 to Top 16. Stay Tuned.

DirectorUncut.com is now LIVE!

2010-02-27T16:32:00.011-05:00

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Idol's Top 12 Ladies

2010-02-23T22:54:00.005-05:00

American Idol: Season 9 kicked off its LIVE shows Tonight with the Top 24 Finalists. It's Tuesday Night and the stage belonged to the Ladies. For a season that has boasted about how this years group of audition-ers are "more talented than ever", you would never guess it based on tonights start. Song choice amongst all the ladies was for the most part safe and at times boring and dreary. No life. No spark. No real energy. With respect to image, they looked just okay. No overly attractive candidates in the lineup. Frontrunners in my mind are Ashley Rodriguez, Lilly Scott, Haeley Vaughn, Michelle Delamor, Didi Benami, Crystal Bowersox and Katie Stevens. My vote this evening goes to Crystal Bowersox. The 24 year old musician did her own rendition of Alanis Morrissette's "Hand In My Pocket" accompanied by her own guitar and harmonica playing. She is a young mother hailing from Colorado and trying to make a better life for her son. Admittadly, she has barely watched the show in the past and that may be to her advantage. She is one of the more authentic of the group. Simon critiqued her saying that he could find millions of people doing exactly what she did outside of subway stations across America. Although Simon's assesment is indeed spot on, I think we will be seing more of Crystal. Although she may not be my first choice, she does get my vote based solely on her vocals. Vocally, she was one of the better ones. On another note, Ellen's new position at IDOL seems to be working well so far. Even though, she has yet to be the one judge to deliver straight up "bad news" to a contestant. Thoughts on Idol? Who did you vote for?

Meet Rico Rodriguez: Rising Child Star

2009-12-08T00:01:00.007-05:00

For anyone who has tuned in to ABC's Hit Comedy Series Modern Family, you have certainly seen this pint-sized talent in action. He plays Manny Delgado on the show - son of Gloria (Sofia Vergara) and stepson to Jay (Ed O' Neill). Modern Family described as a modern day Brady Bunch takes a satirical look at three different families (one gay, one multicultural and one traditional) and the trails and tribulations that they must face on a daily basis. The show is very well written and the dialogue given to Rico's character can be likened to that of a seasoned adult. Born on July 31, 1998 in College Station, Texas, he first appeared in a 2006 short film entitled "Los Tamales". He then went on to several guest spots on shows such as NCIS, ER, Cory In The House and iCarly. Modern Family is his first role as a series regular. Undeniably, he is one of thee most talented kids on Television and certainly the front runner as a Latino child actor on Television. His comedic timing is great and his star is certainly on the rise. We will be seeing more of Rico as Modern Family has been picked up for a second season and we look forward to seeing him in other projects as well. Tonight Rico sat down with his good buddy George Lopez for an interview on Lopez Tonight.

Miloš Forman's "A Well Paid Walk" makes its North American Premiere

2009-11-18T23:00:00.112-05:00

Tonight the BAM Rose Cinemas kicked off the 10th Anniversary of the New Czech Film Series. The annual screening is a joint collaboration by curator Irena Kovarov along with BAMcinematek and the Czech Center New York (also a part ot the 2009 Czech Independence Day Celebrations). This event showcases some of the latest and popular Czech Films.

Making its North American Premiere tonight was the 2009 film, A Well Paid Walk ("Dobře Placená Procházka ") by acclaimed Director Miloš Forman. The film tells the tale of a young married couple Vanilla and Uli who are on a fast-track to a divorce. Their lives and the pending end to their marriage is all of a sudden put on hold with the delivery of a telegram by a postman. In it, they receive word that a rich Aunt will be arriving from Liverpool shortly along with a million dollar inheritance for their child. The only problem is...they do not have a child. What ensues is a journey that is part comedy and part drama. Czechs in the audience were particularly remniscent of the legendary Semafor Theatre where the play took place. A Well Paid Walk is a filmed stage production of a play originally written by the duo of Jiří Šlitr and Jiří Suchý that received much acclaim and success upon its debut in 1965. Over four decades later, Forman is asked to direct thee modern-day retelling of this story at the National Theater in Prague and is joined by his twin sons Matěj (set designer) and Petr (stage co-director). This marks Forman's Czech stage directorial debut. After tonights screening, he answered questioned from the audience.

For more on BAMcinématek, BAM Rose Cinemas and all things BAM, log on to http://www.bam.org/. For more on local NYC Czech events, log on to http://www.czechcenter.com/.

Going "Full Steam Ahead" Towards A Cure

2009-09-29T23:15:00.018-04:00

Legendary Promoter & Nightlife Impresario John "Gungie" Rivera has spent the past three decades building strong relationships and giving back to the community through various charities and ventures including "Salsa The Vote", "LifeBeat" and the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club (to name a few). It is this type of hospitality and dedication John now seeks with the establishment of his not-for-profit organization known as The Cristian Rivera Foundation. The Foundation started earlier this year in honor of John's late son, Cristian, seeks to raise awareness of and ultimately find a cure for Pontine Glioma - a rare inoperable brain tumor that claimed Cristian's life.

Everyone who loved Cristian came out in spades tonight as the Foundation hosted its first ever Gala. Manhattan venue Eden was home to tonight's event and also holds a poignant memory as it was the site of Cristian's 5th Birthday. Guests feasted on the cuisines of Celebrity Chefs Ricardo Cardona & Alex Garcia including foods from several major NYC-area restaurants such as Hudson River Cafe and Sazon. The night was emceed by longtime friend, committee member and supporter (and popular NYC Radio Personality) J.I. Starr of La Mega 97.9 FM. Entertainment was provided by Merengue Artist Raul Acosta & his band Oro Solido as well as the comedic styling of Ruperto Vanderpool. On this quaint fall evening, the rooftop venue was adorned with flowers, candles and images and video of Cristian as everyone danced, laughed, ate and shared with one another their most treasured memories of Cristian. Committee members showing support included Jimmy Rodriguez, Little Louie Vega, Jim Jones, DJ Camilo, DJ TedSmooth, Victor Martinez, Hamlet Peralta and Johnny Nunez among others. The Cristian Rivera Foundation's first Gala was a remarkable and successful event. There is no slowing down with this organization. It truly is "Full Steam Ahead" towards curing Pontine Glioma. For more information on the foundation and to show your support, please visit www.cristianriverafoundation.org.

4 Days till Melrose

2009-09-04T13:18:00.006-04:00

We are just 4 days away till we return to "Hollywood's Most Scandalous Address". The CW Nets new Fall Lineup is about to get started as Tuesday, Sept. 8th sees the premiere of the new Melrose Place at 9PM following the Season Two Premiere of last season's remake of 90210. The CW has been buzzing about their new season putting out controversial and sexy billboards and commercials a-plenty. The Net promises this to be a season to "_______" (fill in the blank - i.e. "Talk", "TXT", "Blog", "Tweet") about. Revisiting 4616 Melrose Place, we will be introduced to a new group of tenants led by landlady Sydney Andrews (Original Series' Laura Leighton). Syd is murdered in the first act of the Pilot and everyone is a suspect. The previews have been introducing us to all of the new tenants and so far they look interesting (to say the least). Also returning from the Original Series are Fan Favs: Thomas Calabro ("Dr. Michael Mancini"), Josie Bissett ("Jane Andrews Mancini") and Daphne Zuniga ("Jo Reynolds"). Creators are promising that old fans and new fans alike will like this new current version. Here is the CW's Preview of the Pilot.

Frankie Negron's "Independence Day"

2009-08-10T23:30:00.006-04:00

Frankie Negron is known to his fans as one of this generations best Salseros. He was born and raised in New Jersey in a Puerto Rican household where both English and Spanish were spoken equally. He developed his passion for Salsa by listening to his father's old records. He was encouraged at a young age to pursue his love of singing utilizing his Salsa roots. Though he grew up loving Salsa, Frankie also had other musical influences, such as Bruce Springstreen and Bon Jovi. Tonight, Frankie took the stage in Downtown Manhattan at Joe's Pub. In this intimate setting, he gave us an hour-long taste of his upcoming album, "Independence Day". His new album is tonally a significant departure from the sounds that we have come to know and love. However, Frankie pulls off this new rhythm without missing a beat incorporating rock and pop tones with a hint of his classical 'Sal-zon'. "Holding On To Love" has already been burning up the radio airwaves in its English version and its Spanish incarnation ("Adicto A Tu Piel"). Look out for other hot tracks on the album including "Torn" and "Stand By Me" (co-written by American Idol Alum Anthony Federov). The new album, "Independence Day", marks his English-language debut and is set to hit stores on September 22nd.

ReVIEWing The 10th Annual NY International Latino Film Festival

2009-08-02T23:30:00.080-04:00

This past week the New York International Latino Film Festival celebrated its 10th Anniversary. It was a crazy and interesting week to say the least. Here is a recap of my experience.

DAY 1 - Opening Night - Tuesday, July 28th, 2009

THE FILM:
Opening Night was the Red Carpet Premiere of the film "La Mission" starring Benjamin Bratt as "Che". Che is a reformed criminal and recovering alcoholic who is raising his son "Jesse" (Jeremy Ray Valdez) on his own. His world seems to come crashing down on him when he learns that Jesse is gay. This causes Che to react the only way he knows how - through violence. In the midst of growing apart from his son, Che falls in love with his tenant "Lena" (Erika Alexander). Lena eventually sees it as her mission to bring father and son back together to the bond they once shared. I thoroughly enjoyed this film from start to finish. It explores different issues such as a parent's struggle with homophobia, a community's struggle with it and ultimately the strength in love and humankind that unites us all. The film was Directed by Peter Bratt, brother to Benjamin. Also starring is newcomer Max Rosenak as Jesse's boyfriend, "Jordan" and Talisa Soto Bratt as "Ana".

"La Mission" on IMDB

THE AFTER-PARTY:
Unfortunately, this reporter was un-ceremoniously denied access. C'est la vie.

DAY 2 - Wednesday, July 29th, 2009

PITCHATHON:
The late-afternoon consisted of the Pitchathon Panel being held at HBO. The PITCHATHON is a forum on how to pitch your idea, film or script along with discussion by industry insiders who come from various sectors of the Entertainment business. The event is a co-presentation between the National Association Of Latino Independent Producers (NALIP) and the New York International Latino Film Festival (NYILFF). During the event, the panelists will offer their insight and advice on selling your ideas. Then the pre-selected finalists take the stage, make their pitch and receive valuable feedback and input from the pros. In the end, the panelists select one of the pitches as their "favorite". NALIP/NYILFF put out an open call for submissions several weeks prior to the event (about 3 or so weeks) asking people to submit their ideas in the form of a two-page (max) outline. I had an idea brewing in my head for a really good TV show - some of which I already had penned out. So I reworked my outline to the requested format and submitted it. Roughly a week prior to this event, I was fortunate enough to receive a phone call from Edwin Pagan, the Panel Coordinator for the Festival. He had informed me that I was one of the Finalists selected. I was stoked, went home and immediately wrote up a Press Release stating that I was going to pitch my idea. The press release went out and I was happy having the support of a couple of friends who were in attendance. Out of the ten finalists, I went on stage 5th I believe - somewhere in the middle. I was nervous, but received valuable feedback from the 3 panelists and the moderator. Now, some improvements should definitely be in store for this particular event as it has been criticized by many for its flaws. The event is supposed to be split into two parts: the first focusing more on advice & dialogue from the panelists and the second part being the actual pitches. We went pretty much straight to the pitches. The panelists did briefly introduce themselves, but that is it. As for the panelists themselves, they pretty much all come from the world of casting. Ask yourselves this. In an event where we are pitching what could be the next great idea for either Television or Film, shouldn't we have a Development Executive on the panel? Or how about someone who perhaps got their start at the Festival and have since gone on to bigger and better? This would seem like the logical choice for panelists rather than focusing solely on those with a Casting / Working with Actors-type of background. Not to discredit any of the panelists. They are all well versed in their respective careers. However, more variety is absolutely necessary for next year's PITCHATHON. Also, the timing of the pitches should be cut down from a maximum of 5 minutes to a maximum of 3 or perhaps even 2 minutes. That's the 4-1-1 with that event.

THE FILM:
Tonight, I attended the screening of John Leguizamo's film "Where God Left His Shoes". John was in attendance and sitting one row away from me. I have been a fan of his work for many, many years and have never actually seen him in person until now. The film was sponsored by Tres Generaciones Tequila, who bestowed John with their coveted COA Award. This award is in recognition of his lifelong achievements in Latino filmmaking. On top of that, another sponsor who was present and representing the Latino Arts also bestowed some type of painting/award to John. John Leguizamo was thrilled and in his true fashion offered up his own unique brand of humor in his acceptance speech. Festival Founder Calixto Chinchilla noted in his introduction that "King Of The Jungle" (one of John's earlier projects) was the very first film to be screened at the New York International Latino Film Festival.

"Where God Left His Shoes" is a moving tale that tells the story of a couple, Frank (Leguizamo) and Angela Diaz (Leonor Varela) and their two young children. Frank is a failed boxer and war veteran who one day finds himself unemployed and having to struggle to provide for his family. They end up evicted from their apartment and staying at a homeless shelter. Their hope for a brighter day is tested time and time again. Months go by and they receive word of an available apartment on Christmas Eve. The catch? Frank must provide proof that he is gainfully employed by the end of the day in order to move in. Frank & his stepson, Justin, spend the holiday roaming the chilly streets of New York City trying to find any and all sources of income. What you get in the end is a story of the importance of family no matter how rough or extreme the bad times can get. Also starring as the children are David Castro ("Justin Diaz") and Samantha M. Rose ("Christina Diaz").

For more, log on to www.wheregodlefthisshoes.com

DAY 3 - Thursday, July 30th, 2009

THE FILM:
"Life Is Hot In Cracktown" is based on Writer/Director Buddy Giovinnazzo's novel of the same name and takes a look at the infiltration of crack cocaine in Urban America through the eyes and experiences of four people whose lives although parallel are about to collide. Pre-op transsexual Marybeth (Kerry Washington) is working the streets as a prostitute saving up for her operation. She lives with her lover Benny (Desmond Harrington), a small time thief and addict, whom she plans on spending the rest of her life with. Manny (Victor Rasuk) works two jobs while his wife Concetta (Shannyn Sossamon) cares for their sick infant son in their rundown apartment. At night, Manny works the bodega where he encounters every kind of shady character imaginable. By day, Manny works as a security guard at a welfare hotel. One resident of the hotel is 10-year-old Willy (Ridge Canipe) who lives with his mother (Ileana Douglas) and her abusive boyfriend. Willy hustles for money on the streets to feed himself and his younger sister. Actor Evan Ross (youngest son of legendary singer Diana Ross) is scarily convincing in the role of Romeo. Romeo is a violent gangster who roams the streets in search of his brother's killer. He does not hesitate to terrorize anyone who gets in his way. Brandon Routh, Lara Flynn Boyle and RZA also co-star.

For more, log on to www.lifeishotincracktownthemovie.com

THE AFTER-PARTY:
Tonight was Dominican Night. Although I missed out on the Dominican film "Don't Let Me Drown", I decided to check out the After-Party. Where more appropriate to have a Dominican After-Party than in Washington Heights at El Morocco. The party was packed. It was good in the beginning, but then it quickly died down to a few people.

DAY 4 - Friday, July 31st, 2009

THE PANELS:
The Screen Actors Guild (SAG) in association with the Hispanic Organization of Latin Actors (HOLA) Present "The Changing Face of Latinos in Media in the 21st Century". This event was held at HBO and featured panelists who traced the changing levels of inclusion and focused on the expanding range of portrayals of Latinos in Entertainment. This was definitely an informative and eye opening panel. The panelists featured were Emilio Delgado (“Sesame Street”), Adrian Martinez (“The Ministers”, “Taking of Pelham 1, 2, 3”), Tony Plana (“Ugly Betty”, "Resurrection Blvd") and Rogelio Douglas (“The Little Mermaid” - Broadway). The overall message as to the future of Latinos & their projects in this business was simply to continue to work hard in whatever you do and keep breaking through those barriers that may stand in your way.

Right after the SAG/HOLA panel, I raced downtown to the Showbiz Software store. The store was host to "The Do's And Don'ts Of Getting In And Staying In" panel. The panel, designed for emerging and experienced media makers, offered insight on creating and sustaining healthy relationships and making positive impressions in this competitive industry. Panelists included Mark Lipsky (President of Gigantic Digital), Charles Nordlander (VP of Development & Programming, The History Channel) and Tamir Muhammad (Program Manager of Tribeca All Access). It was a good panel, but no new information was gained here. I am familiar with the same generic tips that were emphasized.

THE FILM:
"Era Uma Vez (Once Upon A Time In Rio)" is your traditional "Romeo-and-Juliet" story. Young Dé (Thiago Martins) lives with his mother Bernadete (Cyria Coentro) in the favela. Working as a hot dog vendor on Ipanema beach, he stays away from a life of crime on the mean streets of the favela. While working, he sets his sights on Nina (Vitória Frate) who is admiring from an adjacent balcony of an apartment. She lives there with her father who is a prosperous lawyer. As a child, Dé witnesses the death of his older brother at the hands of local thugs. His other brother Carlão (adopted & oldest of the three - played by Rocco Pitanga) is wrongfully imprisoned for a crime he did not commit. He breaks out and is set on a course for vengeance. Despite coming from different worlds, Dé and Nina fall madly in love and will stop at nothing to be together despite criticism from their parents. Director Breno Silveira explores a society where the rich & the poor live parallel lives yet are worlds apart.
I was happy to finally see a good film from the world of Brasilian Cinema included in this year's lineup. In my opinion, Brasilian films have a tendency to be underrepresented at this festival.

For more, log on to www.sonypictures.com.br/Sony/HotSites/Br/eraumavez/

THE AFTER-PARTY:
Tonight, I attended the After-Party for the movie "A Kiss Of Chaos". I missed the film this time around and hope to catch it at its next screening. The buzz about this film throughout the festival (and even before it) remained very high. Everyone is excited about it and everyone is talking about it. This energy and hype was definitely reflected at the film's After-Party being held at Country Club, a popular downtown venue. I arrived with fellow cast members and the place was packed. It was a wall-to-wall "who's who" of Latino film. The entire cast & crew of the film were in attendance. I met some interesting and funny people including legendary comedian Angel Salazar. "Scheck it outtt". YouTube his name and you'll see what I mean. HAHA! Drinks were flowing. People were dancing. Everyone was in good company and those who worked on this film were celebrating their hard work. Yes, hard work does pay off.

DAY 5 - Closing Night - Saturday, August 1st, 2009

THE PANEL:
I attended the panel "HBO & CNN Present: A Conversation With...". CNN anchorwoman, Soledad O'Brien led this intimate and personal discussion with Rosie Perez ("Yo Soy Boricua...", "White Men Can't Jump"), Lauren Vélez ("New York Undercover", "Oz", "Dexter") and Luis Guzmán ("Oz", "The Taking of Pelham 1, 2, 3"). They each discussed their own personal experiences in the business and where they feel Latinos are headed. O'Brien even fielded some questions audience members had for the panelists. I enjoyed this excellent panel.

THE FILM:
The Red Carpet was seeing a lot of action Tonight as the stars came out in droves for the Closing Night Premiere of "La Linea". La Linea focuses on veteran assassin Mark Shields (Ray Liotta). He is hired to track down Pelon (Esai Morales), who becomes the new leader of the Salazar Cartel after Javier Salazar (Andy Garcia) falls ill. In the midst of his assignment, Shields becomes involved with Olivia (Valerie Cruz), who is battling her own demons in pursuit of a better life for her and her daughter. Set against the backdrop of the dangerous city of Tijuana and its rough drug trade, this film is full of action and drama and is also a journey of self discovery for each one of the characters involved. Armand Assante, Jordi Vilasuso, Bruce Davison and Danny Trejo also co-star.

"La Linea (The Line)" on IMDB

THE AFTER-PARTY:
The After-Party for Closing Night was held at PRIME Nightclub. In the beginning, it was empty. However, it soon became incredibly packed and everyone had a good time capping off a long week of hard work, films and fun. Everyone got their drink and their groove on and the club stayed packed until close at 4AM.

THE END. Roll Credits!

Frankie Negron Concert @ Wagner Park

2009-07-22T23:22:00.004-04:00

Listen up, Ladies! The "Bad Boy of Salsa" is back. Frankie Negron performed to a packed crowd tonight at Downtown Manhattan's Wagner Park. Wagner Park played host to Negron as part of its Summer Concert Series. This Artist has been known for his influence in Salsa for over the past decade. He performed many of his hits including "Princesa", "Comerte A Besos", "Por Tu Placer", "Inolvidable" & "Agua Pasada". The crowd went crazy when they were treated to his new song "Adicto A Tu Piel" - a track that has been burning up the local NYC radio airwaves for the past two weeks both in its Spanish and English version ("Holding On To Love"). Look for Frankie's new English Debut Album "Independence Day" in stores on September 22nd, 2009.

Meet The Cast of "Miami Social"

2009-07-03T21:50:00.005-04:00

Do you remember the smart, fiery, sexy Latina Katrina Campins from the original season of NBC's The Apprentice? Well, after getting fired from the Donald, the now 29-year-old Miami native is still on top of her game. She runs her own Real Estate Company catering to Major Athletes, Celebs and Miami's Elite. Join her and her colleagues as they "work hard and play even harder" in America's Sexiest City as documented by Bravo's upcoming reality series Miami Social. All at the top of their game in their respective areas, these seven consider themselves the "gatekeepers of Miami". We shall see what we shall see. Miami Social docks on Tuesday, July 14th at 10PM.

MEET THE CAST Video

Jersey Housewives Are As "Thick As Thieves"

2009-06-18T23:00:00.006-04:00

The sh*t hit the fan on this weeks finale of The Real Housewives Of New Jersey. Tonight, Bravo even aired an Extended Director's Cut version of the Dinner Scene. That's right the whole Dinner Scene stretched into an hour with added commentary by the Cast. The episode titled "The Last Supper" may have just as well been called "Manning Up With The Manzos". The focal point of the episode was Caroline taking full responsibility for showing "the book" around town (aka the salon). It all started out as a nice dinner at a nice restaurant all setup by Teresa - who even went out of her way to extend an invitation to Danielle. Knowing full well that she was walking into the Lion's Den, Danielle still chose to attend with her daughters in tow. The tension began the moment Danielle reached into her bag, pulled out her ex-husbands book and placed it firmly on the table. As everyone around the table tries to avoid looking at the book, the silence is finally broken. Danielle begins to explain herself and is quickly cut off by Caroline so that the children may be excused from the room. The only children that are taken out are Teresa's who are too young to witness such drama. Danielle decides to keep her daughters, 10 & 14 years old, in the room having already prepared them for the drama before leaving home. Danielle heavily criticizes Dina who completely denies showing the book. Caroline finally fesses up and claims she is the one (and only one) who showed people the book defending her baby sis in the process. Jacqueline watching her friend be attacked by her sis-in-laws finally pipes up and calls out Dina & Caroline on their b.s. claiming that both of them are responsible for showing "the book" and that she is a firsthand witness to the fact. Danielle is suprised by Jacqueline's confession and thanks her for coming to her defense. Perhaps the highlight of this gathering was when Danielle tells Teresa to "Pay Attention" insinuating that Teresa is some sort of "airhead". Teresa being the spitfire that she is immediately attacks back cursing out Danielle and flipping the table towards her. If you're someone's enemy, why would you go to dinner with them (invited or not)? If people are talking sh*t about you and you feel the need to address it, shouldn't you do it in a more private setting? Why exacerbate the situation? The right solution would be to address the source privately and in a calm manner. If however someone is trying to ruin your reputation and is completely 100% un-justified in doing so, then it's GAME ON. Sometimes it may be necessary to fight fire with fire and see who ends up getting burned. I highly doubt this is what it's like dining with the Jersey Housewives and their families unless your their enemy and your out to cause drama. If thats the case, then you get what you ask for. If you can dish it out, you best be prepared to take it. The fun with the Jersey Housewives doesn't end here. There's more drama next week on the Reunion Show. Tune in Tuesday (6/23) & Thursday (6/25) for the two-parter as they re-hash all their issues.

SNEEK PEEK @ THE REUNION

Real Housewives Having Real Babies

2009-06-09T12:00:00.014-04:00

Monday Night, the late-night news program Nightline ran a Segment discussing the popularity of Bravo's The Real Housewives Franchise and how it has become "Must-See TV". The latest incarnation of the series introduces us to the Italian Housewives of Jersey whom some say can be a little bit Carmela Soprano mixed with a little Angela De Marco (Michelle Pfeiffer's character in Married To The Mob) and some old school Marisa Tomei sass thrown in for added drama. Based on the pix and video, we can say with certainty that two of the Housewives, Teresa Giudice & Jacqueline Laurita are indeed pregnant. They are sporting baby bumps and will be getting their respective visits from the stork soon. As seen on the show, Teresa is somewhat of a "Showbiz Mom" and has three girls already with husband Joe. Critics say she can be over-the-top when it comes to her girls. People are hoping that she finally has a boy so that we don't have another toddler walking around sporting lip gloss. Let us hope this is the case. Jacqueline Laurita can be considered the Good Girl of the show even though she is torn between siding with family and siding with the family's enemy, Danielle Staub. Jacqueline already has a teenage daughter from a previous marriage and this child would be the first with husband Chris. We wish them the best of luck in their pregnancy because she has a history of frequent medically unexplainable miscarriages. Congrats to Theresa & Joe and Jacqueline & Chris. In addition, some people speculate that Dina Manzo is also pregnant though it's hard to tell based on the Nightline segment. Is she? Let us know.

Nightline - 06/08/09

TUNE IN to The Real Housewives Of New Jersey Season Finale on Tuesday, June 16th and watch as the sh*t hits the fan when everyone confronts Danielle about "the book". Check out the preview.

NEXT STOP on the Franchise, D.C. and Beverly Hills. Plus, we get to revisit the Atlanta Housewives as Season 2 bows at the end of July. We will be minus DeShawn Snow (who was fired from the show) and we will meet her replacement Kandi Burruss. Burruss is a singer-songwriter from the platinum-selling '90s R&B girl group Xscape. Where are the Real Latinas? Miami, Hello??

Taking It To New Heights

2009-06-01T12:00:00.006-04:00

Over the weekend, I got to hang out on the set of Tha Heights music video for their Hot new Track titled "Selfish". Set against the backdrop of an Uptown Nightclub, these four guys busted their asses committing to their craft along with the aid of several attractive extras and a cavalry of dedicated production professionals. The group is composed of Winston Jerez, Manny Duran, Frito Valdez & Carlos Sosa - four young Dominican guys who grew up on the streets of Washington Heights making their music along the way. They have coined their unique sound as "Latin Pop & B". It wasn't until they signed with OffBeat Entertainment in 2003 that their careers have been put into overdrive. Since then, their manager (and CEO of OffBeat) Patricia Taylor has made it her primary focus to foster and nurture the group's success. Under her leadership, they have become well known in the NYC area often being involved in the media, local events and community affairs. They also became the Official Spokespeople for Bazooka Bubble Gum after coming up with a catchy jingle about the candy. It can be said that these guys are reminiscent of a Dominican version of famed R&B group Boys II Men - singing primarily in English and occasionally adding their own unique Spanglish Flava. Spending a few hours on their set, I can say with certainty that their is no limit to the heights that these four can achieve. For those under the misconception that being in a music group is easy work, I suggest that you take a few steps into Tha Heights.

I'm A Celebrity Has-Been, Now Get Me A Drink!

2009-05-28T02:52:00.007-04:00

Coming this Monday, June 1st, the peacock network (NBC) will kick off its Summer Programming lineup by unleashing its latest incarnation in the reality genre. I'm A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here! will drop ten suspecting pseudo-celebrities into the jungles of Costa Rica. The LIVE premiere will carry on into four days of overindulgence that we probably don't need or want. The show will air daily Monday thru Thursday. That is a bit much, don't cha think? The only show like that where it's okay to air that many times a week (in my opinion) is Big Brother. This show which NBC grabbed from ABC (originally airing in February 2003) will test the celebs survival skills and the last one standing wins a substantial amount of money for their favorite charity. This pretty much is the Celebrity Apprentice on acid. Now here are my thoughts on the ten celebs:
1. Heidi & Spencer should not even count as "two separate people". Can we please drop them in the jungle and leave their stupid asses there? YES, WE CAN!
2. Janice Dickinson - For some reason, we can't seem to get enough of this crazy b*tch. Yes, she was the first to coin the term "Supermodel" and she has this whole professional success, but this lady always ends up being a train wreck. Did you see her drunk ass caught on TMZ on 5/13? Cameras don't lie.
3. John Salley - Honestly, I had no clue who he was till I read his bio on the shows website. He's a famous NBA player. Hopefully, his athleticism will prove very useful in the jungle. Time will tell.
4. Lou Diamond Phillips - We all remember this versatile Actor got started by playing Ritchie Valens in "La Bamba". He is also an accomplished Writer & Director. Now, I got that song stuck in my head. Paraa Bailarrrr La Bamba... I hope he goes far in this competition. I really do.
5. Sanjaya - That annoying pretty boy from American Idol is back. Oy Vey.
6. Stephen Baldwin - What's a reality show without a token Baldwin? Always seems to be this one too - the least popular of the Baldwins.
7. Torrie Wilson - The hot Babe from the WWE is still hot and wrestling never had sexier representation. This woman is a Beast I tell you --a BEAST!
8. & 9. - Now, the last two guests are remaining a mystery till the premiere. One is said to be Patty Blagojevich, the wife of ousted Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich. The former Governor could not participate in the show as originally planned due to some legal issues.

Who is the other guest? This nightmare premieres LIVE Monday @ 8PM on NBC.

Fun @ The Loisaida Festival

2009-05-24T23:05:00.006-04:00

Today was the annual celebration of Latino culture at the Loisaida Festival. Loisaida is a Spanish term for the Lower East Side neighborhood of Manhattan. This area has been home to generations of Latinos and has been a mecca for everything expressive of the culture (i.e. food, music, arts, film). Every year around this time, they hold a street festival along Loisaida Avenue (aka Avenue C) which extends from 14th Street all the way down to 6th Street. The concert portion of the festival was sponsored by local radio station La Kalle 105.9 FM. Representing La Kalle and introducing us to the various artists on stage were representatives of the Luis Jimenez Morning Show (mainly Las Gemelas & Speedy). Artists included a young new Salsero Hector "Papote" Jimenez, Merengueros Grupo Watatah, and Legendary Salsero (originally from the L.E.S.) Eddie Palmieri Y Su Orquesta. The streets were filled with Latinos and non-Latinos alike and the weather was perfect for such a celebration. The stage was on 12th Street and the remainder of Avenue C was lined with food vendors, merchandise vendors, and games for the kids. It was a day for the family and for just having some fun for all ages, young and old.

The Return of cult-classic Melrose Place

2009-05-23T16:00:00.007-04:00

The CW had their Upfronts recently and presented their new Fall 2009 lineup which consists of NO comedies and a heavily drama based schedule. Goodbye The Game & Everybody Hates Chris. CW prezzy Dawn Ostroff claims that in recent years the network has not been successful at producing comedies and therefore will scrap the comedy genre completely. One highly anticipated show is the remake of the 90s cult-classic Melrose Place. The CW has released it's first Teaser for the new Melrose Place.

The new Melrose Place introduces us to a group of twentysomethings living together in an apartment complex in the Melrose area of L.A. Their landlady is Sydney Andrews (played by Laura Leighton) who was last seen presumed dead in the original series. She is said to play a pivotal role in the lives of each of her tenants and is romantically linked with David in a love/hate-type relationship. David is presumably the all-grown-up son of original series character Jake Hansen (Grant Show). Dr. Michael Mancini (played by Thomas Calabro) is also back and is a father figure to David.

A premiere date has yet to be set, however the pilot is complete. The series will air on Tuesday Nights at 9PM following its sister-show the new 90210, which got off to a rocky start its freshman season. We will soon learn how Sydney survived the car crash, how Michael came to be David's father, and meet a whole new group of people who lead scandalous lives...And it all starts with the classic murder mystery storyline. Looks like there is a dead body floating in the courtyard swimming pool. YES, Melrose is Back, b*tches!

"The Girlfriend Experience" Airs Tonight 5/20

2009-05-20T13:25:00.001-04:00

"The Girlfriend Experience" directed by Steven Soderbergh airs tonight (5/20) on HDNet Movies. This film had its premiere recently at the Tribeca Film Festival and opens Nationwide in Theaters this Friday (5/22). Check your local listings and see if you have the channel HDNet Movies. This will save you a trip to the movies and watching it at home will cost you zero.

Day 7 Ends on "24"

2009-05-18T23:30:00.000-04:00

Day 7 has drawn to end with Tonight's "24" Season Finale. Overall, it was a good finale - a little dry but it passes for now. After waiting nearly two years due to that infamous Hollywood Writers Strike last Fall, we finally got to start a new season of 24 this past January after getting a taste of 24: Redemption back in November. Ask any die-hard 24 fan (such as myself) and we will tell you. We do not refer to them as "Seasons" but as "Days". 24 does take us into the life of Jack Bauer for a period of Twenty-Four consecutive hours. Therefore, the label does fit. I was very impressed with Elisha Cuthbert's performance in these last few hours as Jack's daughter "Kim". Kim Bauer really stepped up to the plate and we can now clearly see that "the apple definitely does not fall far from the tree". "It actually lies right beside the tree". When we started out this Season everything was "fresh". We had a new city, Washington D.C. No more CTU. We didn't have to be stuck in those dreaded offices all day...AND one of the biggest genius moves by show creators was casting Cherry Jones to play our first Female President. To my recollection, we have only had Two Female U.S. Presidents on Television prior to President Allison Taylor. We had the V.P. who became President on Prison Break (she was a major b*tch) and we also had Geena Davis on the short-lived series "Commander In Chief" (what a bomb that show turned out to be). Both of those characters DO NOT even come close to President Taylor. Great performance by Cherry Jones as her character was tested time and time again over the past 24 hours. It was great seeing the return of Carlos Bernard as the malicious Tony Almeida. This Season for me was much like a throwback to the very 1st season. Everything was more hands-on combat and sort of incorporated more "guerrilla-style" tactics. The last time a season started off this fresh was Season 4 which primarily was "new" because of the new offices and complete new cast. Jack is always and will always be our one and only constant variable in this equation and whatever he does keeps us glued to our screens. Now that Jack is supposedly terminally ill, we must wait to see whether he will live or die in Day 8. We all kind of get the feeling that he will live. In some ways, we have continuously seen him cheat death. It will happen yet again. One of my theory's is that if Jack does "die", we can have Kim take over as our hero. She may not have nearly as much experience as her father does, but she certainly does have the instinct & a certain degree of passion for this line of work. Let us raise our glasses and toast to another excellent DAY of 24.

Don't Delay. If you missed any of DAY 7 or just want to relive it all over again, be sure to pick up your copy on DVD or Blu Ray Tomorrow 5/19. :)

Prison Break goes out with a Bang ...Literally...

2009-05-15T23:00:00.000-04:00

The bullets were flying all over the place tonight on the SERIES FINALE of FOX's hit show Prison Break. We witnessed the Ultimate Final Showdown between The Brothers and the deadly organization known as "The Company". When I heard that this series was gonna be cancelled by FOX and that these remaining Spring episodes were the final ones, I was not surprised. The series in terms of storyline has definitely run its course. The original premise was that Michael Scofield stages a bank robbery just to get himself incarcerated into the Fox River State Prison. There his older brother Lincoln Burrows was being held and awaiting death row for allegedly murdering the United States Vice President's brother. Turns out Michael is a structural engineer with a genius I.Q. and a plan to break his brother out. What proceeds is one of thee most intense drama's ever on television. The Finale was intense and poetic up until the end. It didn't end exactly the way I would have preferred, but everyone's storyline was somewhat wrapped up neatly. The main shocker which came at the very end was not really unexpected simply a bit disappointing. The ending of the series did (as many series do) take us a few years ahead into the characters lives. According to website Amazon.com, a Direct-To-DVD movie called "Prison Break: The Final Break" will be arriving July 21st on DVD & Blu Ray Disc. Secrets are said to be revealed and mysteries will be solved. Whether or not the "film" will pick up Four Years Later (where the SERIES FINALE left us) or fill in the gap of those missing years remains unknown. Let's have a drink for Prison Break - one of the most kickass shows ever on TV.

It's VP B*tches!

2009-05-14T23:11:00.000-04:00

This is the music video for the Track "Move, Bounce, Shake" from the Artist known as VP. Lemme know what you blog-readers think.

Feliz Cinco De Mayo! SALUD. The Film?

2009-05-05T23:59:00.000-04:00

Tonight I attended NewLatino Filmmakers Screening Series at The Anthology Film Archives. Described as The best and only independent Latino “cinematheque” showcase in New York City, it is one of thee most successful and ongoing gatherings I have seen in NYC. This showcase (celebrating its 7th year) is hosted by Director/Curator Edwin Pagan. Pagan is a familiar face in the Independent Latino Film community here in NYC and is often sought out by fellow Latino Filmmakers for his assistance and expertise not only during production but in getting projects onto the big screen as well. Tonight's series featured several shorts followed by the Feature Presentation of SALUD.

SALUD is a story about an alcoholic father "Carlos" and his relationship with his young son "Junito". Trying to reclaim the life he once had with his ex-wife "Mimi" and their boy proves impossible and sends Carlos into a downward spiral deep into the depths of alcoholism. Junito's refusal to give up on his dad sends father and son on a journey of emotional discovery and ultimately leads us to the true meaning of unconditional love. Leading this strong and dynamic cast are Cesar De Leon (Carlos) and Reymond Wittmann (Junito).

De Leon, born and raised in Brooklyn, got his "big break" first appearing on HBO's OZ playing the good brother of an inmate. From there, he went on to appear on The Sopranos, Law & Order, Law & Order: Criminal Intent and Damon Dash's film State Property 2. He also appeared nationally in various commercials for Snickers, Bank Of America and Sears among others. De Leon has even lent his voice to Rockstar Video Games' The Warrior and Grand Theft Auto IV. He is now proud to add to his growing list of credits thee title of "Director". 2005's Junito was De Leon's Award Winning Short Film which set the precedent for creating Salud. SALUD marks his Feature Film Directorial Debut.

Wittmann, although still very young, has the energy, charisma and smarts of a seasoned actor. He first landed a lead guest starring role on a 2005 episode of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit at the age of eight. From there, he has appeared in numerous commercials, films and TV shows including The Electric Company. Wittmann and De Leon first met several years ago at a commercial audition. Since then, the two have formed an inseparable brotherly bond working on Junito together and now Salud. These two make for an incredible on-screen duo and there is no doubt they will be appearing together in future projects.

Accolades are most definitely deserved when it comes to this film. In the brief time that SALUD has been around, it has premiered at CineFestival Texas (in February) and just last month walked away with "Best Screenplay" at the acclaimed Beverly Hills Film Festival. SALUD continues to generate buzz on the film circuit and in the community. De Leon is currently writing and working on other projects. Wittmann is working on a project with MTV. The duo have no plans on slowing down in their respective careers and each brings to the table a certain degree of excellence to their craft wherever on the Entertainment spectrum they may land.

SALUD also stars Casandra Kate Escobar as "Mimi" and Melina Lizette as "Jocelyn". For more on SALUD, log on to www.saludfilm.com.

SALUD Trailer

Films I Didn't Really Enjoy @ the TFF

2009-05-04T02:10:00.002-04:00

Working and being involved with the Tribeca Film Festival leads to the inevitable viewing of many films through a short period of time. Sometimes seeing up to three movies back-to-back in one day may not be the best thing and your brain gets fried. However, I saw some I liked and others that I was not too crazy about. Here is my review of Films I didn't really like (or it just wasn't for me).

On 4/26, I sat through a series of shorts entitled "Shorts: Mixed Feelings". Mixed Feelings was definitely a good term to describe this weird hybrid of films. The main one that peaked my curiosity was Nueva York. It was a tale of Latino immigrant life in NY and was just okay. There was also a B&W one which was boring. The only one I really like out of the group was called The Eight Percent. It is a story of two high school exes who meet up ten years later on an awkward blind date. The film stars Ashley Williams (CBSs Novel Adventures) and Ben McKenzie (formerly of The O.C. and now seen on NBCs SouthLand). The Eight Percent is the winner of the Delta Fly-In Movies Competition and is directed by Alexander Poe.

On 5/2 (SAT), I saw the Bon Jovi Documentary followed by Midgets Vs. Mascots (see separate blog entry). I have never been a really hardcore Bon Jovi fan. I am familiar with a few songs here and there. There were mostly hardcore fans of Jon Bon Jovi in the audience. What I took away from it was that even as he grows older into his 40s and pushing 50, it takes a lot of dedication and hard work to be successful on tour for years and years. Also, I walked away that night with Living On A Prayer stuck in my head.

On 5/3, it was the very last day of the Festival and I couldn't get into see two films I had planned on seeing: Timer and City Island. So, I settled for Exploding Girl followed by Racing Dreams. Both of them bored me to sleep. For more information on these films and all the other films played at the Tribeca Film Festival, either log on to www.tribecafilm.com or just use Google. Your choice.

Working The 2009 Tribeca Film Festival

2009-05-04T02:00:00.000-04:00

Upon getting a call back to once again work the Tribeca Film Festival, I knew it was going to be an interesting (and tiring) two weeks. This year I was fortunate to not only work (again) as part of the Box Office staff, but I was also able to volunteer with the Filmmaker Department. Now the first is where I thrive best (probably because it is where I am getting paid). However, the latter is certainly something that needs to be reconsidered.

If you are ever going to be working for "free" (in this case volunteering), then you better get some type of learning experience out of it. I did not. The only thing I can compare my TFF volunteer experience with is my NYILFF volunteer experience. Both occurred in the same department. However, I believe when it comes to the TFF, there can sometimes be "too many cooks in the kitchen". Combining staff + volunteers, 24 (or so) people in Filmmaker Department at the TFF is equivalent to about 8 people in the Filmmaker Department at the NYILFF. I thrive on meeting fellow Filmmakers, helping ease their transition into being a part of the festival and making sure their audience is able to connect with them on a more human level. If you are a volunteer in the Filmmaker Department (or in any other department) at the NYILFF, you are expected to represent that department in the best professional manner possible. During last years NYILFF, I was assigned to a particular venue. At times, I was there (without my supervisor or coordinator) representing the department and I succeeded. I excelled in handling the filmmakers' concerns (i.e. screen tests with the projectionists) and represented the department and the festival very well. I welcomed our audiences with enthusiasm and bid them a fond farewell at the end of our screenings. I conducted stimulating and productive Q&A sessions between audiences and filmmakers. Someone even liked my energy on the mic so much that after one of our screenings, this person approached me in private and said I was like a "Latino Doug E. Fresh". I digress though telling tales of my favorite film festival.

As a Filmmaker Volunteer at the TFF, you are basically a conduit for information. You sit at a desk and act as an "informed" informant. Each screening is assigned a separate coordinator to be thee Filmmakers' Liaison. Inside the theater, you have either 2 (or 3) people: one does the Introduction, one does the Q&A and another does the "Farewell". Yet again I will state the famous phrase. "There are too many cooks in THIS kitchen". Experiencing that makes me wonder sometimes if the TFF is more concerned about claiming numbers and statistics. In my opinion, they should definitely always call back the good (performance-wise) volunteers and staff for the following years-to-come. However, they need to be more selective and weed out: the weak links, those who do not seem enthusiastic and those who when approached by festival guests (general public and industry-folk alike) do not have a dumbfounded look on their face along with no answers.

On the flip side, working in the Box Office is always a fun and interesting experience. The crew there is great to get along with. It is sort of like a family and you know that you can cover each others' shifts or fill a staffing void if needed. Things happen. Whether its at HQ where your constantly taking calls or at an assigned venue where you are face-to-face, you will always run into your usual run-of-the-mill crazies who want things done their way (or the highway). All you do is take a breath and keep on moving. Also, it is more comfortable to be assigned to an air-conditioned venue where you can be seated rather than a tiny non-air conditioned space where you must stand alongside 4 people. All-in-all working for the Tribeca Film Festival can be a rewarding experience. Just make sure you know what you want to get out of it and where your strengths lie or else you may get lost in the shuffle....AND when all is said and done, you are rewarded with a STAFF PARTY that really does KICK ASS!!! Notice I mentioned the STAFF PARTY not the Volunteer Party (others may disagree).

"Midgets Vs. Mascots" Review

2009-05-02T23:59:00.003-04:00

5/02/09
Working and being involved with the Tribeca Film Festival leads to the inevitable viewing of many films through a short period of time. Sometimes seeing up to three movies back-to-back in one day may not be the best thing and your brain gets fried. However, I saw some I liked and others that I was not too crazy about. Here is my latest review of a Film I saw at the Tribeca Film Festival.

Tonight after seeing an okay Bon Jovi Documentary, I saw Midgets Vs. Mascots. The film is about this midget-sized tycoon who is a big porn producer (a-la Larry Flynt) and he dies unexpectedly. Upon the reading of his will, he sets up a race to see who will win his inheritance. What ensues is a group of Midgets who enlist Gary Coleman as part of their crew competing against a group of Mascots wearing ridiculous costumes. The groups are put through various stupid challenges. Hilarity is present nonstop throughout the course of this mockumentary and it is worth the ride. It was announced tonight that Midgets Vs. Mascots has won the coveted Heineken Audience Award Third Place Film. Congrats! Well Deserved.

MIDGETS VS. MASCOTS Unrated Trailer

For more on Midgets Vs. Mascots, log on to www.midgetsvsmascots.com.

"My Life In Ruins" Review

2009-05-02T23:00:00.013-04:00

Working and being involved with the Tribeca Film Festival leads to the inevitable viewing of many films through a short period of time. Sometimes seeing up to three movies back-to-back in one day may not be the best thing and your brain gets fried. However, I saw some I liked and others that I was not too crazy about. Here is my latest review of a Film I saw at the Tribeca Film Festival.

05/02/09
Tonight the auditorium was packed as everyone came out to the BMCC Performing Arts Center in celebration of Closing Night at The Tribeca Film Festival. What better way to close out this years festival than with the premiere of this summer's romantic comedy, My Life In Ruins starring the amazing Nia Vardalos. Vardalos (whom we all know, love and remember from My Big Fat Greek Wedding) plays the title role of Georgia. Georgia has hit rock bottom and has spent the last year reconnecting with her soul living in Greece as a tour guide while she searches for her dream job as a teacher. She is a romantic at heart and constantly on an endless search for love and a sense of direction in her life. The film takes us on a journey through the sites of Greece. We see Georgia tirelessly lead her latest group of dysfunctional tourists through the ruins - among them a sea of familiar faces including Richard Dreyfuss, Rachel Dratch and Harland Williams. Greek superstar Alexis Georgoulis makes his American Debut in this film as "Poupi", the mysterious bus driver. Does Georgia get her kefi (Greek for "mojo") back? Tune in on June 5th when My Life In Ruins hits theaters nationwide.

Beforehand (and sacrificing the chance at a good seat), I hit the red carpet and watched the Director Donald Petrie, Nia Vardalos and Rachel Dratch all pass by and get interviewed over and over and over by the press hounds. After the screening some of the Cast & Crew offered up an enjoyable Q&A - taking questions from the audience and offering some good insight into the making of the film. Enjoy the Video below [in HD].

DIRECTOR UNCUT © [HD] - "My Life In Ruins Premiere"

MY LIFE IN RUINS Trailer

Ticketholders Shut Out At Tribeca Film Festival

2009-04-30T02:05:00.000-04:00

Ticketholders at the SVA Theater received anything but "full service" tonight at the Tribeca Film Festival. They had been waiting on a long line to see The Girlfriend Experience to be followed up by a panel discussion with Director Steven Soderbergh and star Sasha Grey. Being a special screening of this film, tickets cost $25 per person. Upon being let into the lobby, a large group of ticketholders had to be turned away. Once the room was full and the doors were shut, those waiting in the lobby were delivered the painful "low blow" (*pun intended). Immediately and without hesitation, the lobby turned into a fury of angry customers. People were yelling at Festival staffers trying to emphasize their point and demanding that they get all their money back. The Festival definitely shot themselves in the foot by overselling tickets. Roughly 80 or so people were denied entry. Many heavily scrutinized the festival for having such an ineffective and shitty policy. People were tired, cold and maybe even a bit hungry. The tension in the air was extremely thick. What is the festival's solution in resolving this huge oversight? Well. First, they offered their sincerest apologies. That certainly does not compensate nor sit well with pissed off New Yorkers. Then, they determine that they will schedule another screening at 10PM. The original screening started at 8PM. Those guests wishing to stay until the 10PM screening were offered a partial refund of $15 (out of $25). The problem with this solution is that although people would get to see the film, they miss out on the Panel Discussion post-film and they would have to wait an additional 2 hours. Reps at the festival continued to apologize and claim that their policy is only 99.9% effective. This evening at the festival pissed off many and might have even turned off recurring festival-goers from ever returning. Good job, TFF.

Customers Protest @ The TFF

The Girlfriend Experience tells the story of a week in the life of a high priced NYC Escort and the balance between her personal and professional life. G.F.E. is Director Steven Soderbergh's 20th film. One of his first films was the 1989 cult classic Sex, Lies, and Videotape. This film also marks Adult Film Star Sasha Grey's highly anticipated transition from the pink carpet to the red carpet. Starring opposite Grey as her boyfriend is newcomer Chris Santos. Those who missed out on the experience can catch it when it opens wide in theaters on May 22nd.

THE GIRLFRIEND EXPERIENCE Trailer

"P Star Rising" Review

2009-04-26T02:10:00.000-04:00

Working and being involved with the Tribeca Film Festival leads to the inevitable viewing of many films through a short period of time. Sometimes seeing up to three movies back-to-back in one day may not be the best thing and your brain gets fried. However, I saw some I liked and others that I was not too crazy about. Here is my latest review of a Film I saw at the Tribeca Film Festival.

"P STAR RISING"

This screening took place outdoors tonight (4/25) at the World Financial Plaza in Downtown Manhattan. The weather was nice and the plaza was packed with people - some just in the area and your TFF attendees who filled in every last of the thousand (or so) seats available. Others who came a bit-late (like myself) had to sit on the sidelines. I raced downtown from seeing another excellent Latino story, "Entre Nos". Before screening the film, P Star was rocking the stage performing with some of her crew from "The Electric Company".

P Star Rising is the story of 9-year-old Priscilla "Star" Diaz, a young Rapper from Harlem. Upon discovering her gift of rhyme, she lets her father Jesse know with certain assurance that she will "fulfill his dreams of succeeding in the music biz". Jesse Diaz, a once-up-and-coming rapper in the 80s, leads this emotional journey as a single father doing what he can day-by-day to improve life for himself and his daughters, Priscilla and older daughter Solsky. Director Gabriel Noble (Autumn's Eyes, co-directed with Paola Mendoza) "discovered" young Priscilla in the basement of a nightclub where she was showing off her skills. Seeing her perform, Noble knew that "there was a story to be told". Almost immediately and without hesitation, he integrated himself into the lives of the Diaz family. Following their every move for four years (often as a one-man-camera-crew), he was able to be a "fly on the wall" capturing every raw emotion in the struggles involved with making Priscilla's "Star" rise higher and higher. Now in her early teens, P Star continues to be a role model and positive influence for all kids. With her star shining brighter than ever before, she continues to perform, record music and even express her acting side by becoming a cast member on the popular PBS Children's Program, "The Electric Company".

After the screening, she performed again and made her closing remarks (see video below). An excellent night, an excellent performance, a full house, many brought their children out and everyone enjoyed sharing in the joy that is P Star.

For more on P Star, check out her Myspace @ www.myspace.com/misspstar.
For more on P Star Rising, check out the films website @ www.pstarrising.com.

P STAR RISING TRAILER

"Entre Nos" Review

2009-04-26T02:00:00.000-04:00

"Party Time: The Movie" Premiere Screening @ HFF

2009-04-20T23:00:00.002-04:00

The Venue & Festival:
Upon viewing a link to the Official website for the 10th Annual NY Havana Film Festival, I decided to attend. Being that they have a short selection of films to choose from (about 15 or so), it did not take long to read through the descriptions and determine which films peak my interest. I read about this movie called "Party Time" and decided to go on a rainy Monday night (04/20). When arriving at Quad Cinemas, you would not even notice that there is a Film Festival going on - especially one celebrating its 10th Anniversary.

Barely-legal size posters adorn the front doors to the theatre along with a few on the inside. As you make your way further into the small lobby of this "artsy" theatre, you are somewhat greeted by two festival staffers manning a table with flyers and other promotional materials. When I use the term "artsy", I speak of an already small (in size) theatre with four screens - only one of which is dedicated to the Festival while the other three show less popular, non-commercial, "artsy"-type flicks...and the seats were on the small side as well. The rooms themselves seat about 100 each and the room was surprisingly barely half-full. I am use to larger-scale Festivals like the New York International Latino Film Festival, where you may have at times what seems like an entire city block closed off, a lots of commotion and tons of excitement in the air. This was not that kind of festival - certainly did not embody the word "Festive". For a film having its NY (& U.S.) Premiere, I expected a larger turnout. There were about 40 of us total in attendance including Director, Cast & Crew. Putting aside my disappointment in the Festival itself, I thoroughly enjoyed the film by miles. What the Havana Film Festival lacked in presentation, it made up for in showing this particular film.

About The Film:
PARTY TIME: THE MOVIE is a Film that takes place in 1989 Puerto Rico in a local High School. Through extensive research & also a self-examination of his roots, Director Juanma Fernandez brings to the big screen this brilliant piece of work that reflects how life was as a Puerto Rican teen growing up in the 80s. In the High School, you have two rival cliques: those who are steadfast in keeping the Salsa tradition going (the "cocolos") and those who are opposed. Those who are opposed follow "New Wave" - an Americanized way of life defined by House/Top 40-type music. Those listening to Salsa are considered "ghetto" and low-class. Those following New Wave are considered more respectable and somewhat upper-class. A perfect example of the politics involved in democratizing what is appropriate and what-is-not is reflected in the film through the Principal's constant resistance in allowing Salsa to be played on school grounds. It is your traditional tale of Boy meets Girl (Salsa "cocolo" Vs. New Wave), Boy falls for Girl, but does he get her in the end? Clearly, I am not going to reveal that here. You will have to see for yourself. This movie will definitely not disappoint. A brief Q&A with the Director after the film revealed that the film took "up to ten years" to come to post. Also, Fernandez divulges that a 2-disc DVD (one Disc being The Soundtrack) is indeed in the works. The movie includes an amazing collection of some of the best 80s American and Salsa music ever made (i.e. El Gran Combo). I posed the question, "Will we see Party Time in other Film Festivals?" The short answer - "Chicago Latino Film Festival and YES".

PARTY TIME: THE MOVIE Trailer