Tuesday 31 January 2012

AACTA Awards Sydney, Australia



It's the hottest ticket in town - the who's who of the Australian film and television industry are here at the AACTA awards.

The mega event is being held at the world famous Sydney Opera House and was broadcast via Channel 9 at 9.30pm.

The 4 legged star of Red Dog, Koko, was notably absent at the red carpet of the Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts Awards - alas his film is nominated for 8 awards.

The red carpet at the first-time awards ceremony at the Sydney Opera House played host to some of Australia’s most internationally acclaimed actors including Cate Blanchett, Olivia Newton-John and AACTA President, and Aussie of the Year, Geoffrey Rush.

Cate Blanchett looked great in gold.

Olivia Newton-John performed for the audience and wore a conservative black dress.

Newton-John’s co-star in 'A Few Best Men', Xavier Samuel, who rose to international fame as Riley Biers in 'The Twilight Saga: Eclipse', praised the state of the Australian film industry.

“The Australian film industry is thriving. I think Red Dog is a terrific film,” he said.

“The important thing is Australians are going to see Australian films.”

Director of Red Dog, Kriv Stenders, also commented on the quality of current Australian films saying his movie faced strong competition from all of the nominated flicks.

“What’s wonderful is it’s a year where we’ve got great films, and great filmmakers and great creative teams,” he said.

“I think it’s a really good sign of the times.”

He apologised for the absence of the Koko - the star of the film.

“Sometimes we have to let him be a dog,” he said.

Model Miranda Kerr, wife of Hollywood actor Orlando Bloom, wore silver for the night with a Collette Dinnigan gown and confided to press she had not yet seen the top nominated film of the night.

“I really want to see Red Dog,” she said.

“I haven’t seen it but I’m dying to see it.”

The AACTA awards recognise excellence in Australian film and television.

It also has an international awards section, which took place in Los Angeles on Saturday with presenters Nicole Kidman, Russell Crowe and Liam Hemsworth.

The Music News Australia agency congratulates everyone involved in the success of the AACTA Awards.













Websites

Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts (AACTA)

Australian Film Institute

The Lantern Group

Sydney Opera House

Music News Australia

Eva Rinaldi Photography

Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr

SCOOBY-DOO LIVE! MUSICAL MYSTERIES



Life Like Touring is proud to bring SCOOBY-DOO LIVE! MUSICAL MYSTERIES to Sydney during the April school holidays. Tickets are selling fast and Scooby-Doo fans are urged to book now to avoid disappointment, as past tours have been a sell-out! In this fun new show, Scooby-Doo and the Mystery Inc. The gang have been called upon to help solve an epic mystery.

SCOOBY-DOO LIVE! MUSICAL MYSTERIES features big musical numbers including the evergreen Scooby- Doo theme song, ‘Scooby-Doo, Where Are You?’ alongside fun new songs including ‘We’re Mystery Inc.’, ‘Round Every Corner’ and ‘A Musical Mystery’.

This rollicking live theatre show brings everyone’s favourite cartoon series to life in a bright and hilarious way. Filled with wacky new characters and hilarious antics, the all-new SCOOBY-DOO LIVE! MUSICAL MYSTERIES has young audiences on the edge of their seats in traditional Scooby-Doo fashion from the moment the lights go down. “Scooby-Doo is one the most beloved and iconic characters in all of popular culture and we are thrilled to be able to bring Scooby and the gang to our Australian and New Zealand fans in a way that is truly spectacular, with a live show that the entire family will love,” says Preston Kevin Lewis, Managing Director, Warner Bros. Consumer Products, Australia and New Zealand.

Don’t miss this Australian-made musical that’s fast becoming a family favourite! SCOOBY-DOO LIVE! MUSICAL MYSTERIES tours Theatre Royal, Sydney and Riverside Theatres, Parramatta during the April school holidays – book now at ScoobyDooLive.com.au

Scooby-Doo’s been delighting families on the small screen for more than 40 years and today, with over 360 episodes aired in 16 countries nearly 50 times per day and over 500 million DVDs sold worldwide, Scooby-Doo is universally adored by boys and girls of all ages. He’s the only dog that makes scary fun, loves solving a good mystery and is totally cool. The latest animated television series, Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated, can be seen daily on Cartoon Network in 2.9 million homes throughout Australia and New Zealand.


Tuesday 10 April
RIVERSIDE THEATRES
Corner Church and Market Streets, Parramatta
Call the box office on 8839 3399
Thursday 12 to Saturday 14 April
THEATRE ROYAL
108 King Street, Sydney
Call Ticketek on 132 849
SCOOBY-DOO LIVE! MUSICAL MYSTERIES

Sydney Kids Meet Scooby - Doo!

 
As one of the most beloved and iconic characters of all time,
treat when Scooby-Doo comes to visit, ahead of his brand new
family musical SCOOBY-DOO LIVE! MUSICAL MYSTERIES that
opens in Sydney (City and Parramatta) during the April school
holidays. Details at ScoobyDooLive.com.au

Kids at The Children's Hospital at Westmead will receive a special treat when Scooby-Doo comes to visit, ahead of his brand new family musical SCOOBY-DOO LIVE! MUSICAL MYSTERIES that opens in Sydney (City and Parramatta) during the April school holidays. Details at ScoobyDooLive.com.au

3.30pm Tuesday 31 January
Westmead, Darcy Road, Westmead, Sydney NSW

SCOOBY-DOO LIVE! MUSICAL MYSTERIES
ALL-NEW FAMILY MUSICAL ON ITS WAY TO SYDNEY

Life Like Touring is proud to bring SCOOBY-DOO LIVE!
MUSICAL MYSTERIES to Sydney during the April school
holidays. Tickets are selling fast and Scooby-Doo fans are urged to book now to avoid disappointment, as past tours have been a sell-out! In this fun new show, Scooby-Doo and the Mystery Inc. gang have been called upon to help solve an epic mystery.

SCOOBY-DOO LIVE! MUSICAL MYSTERIES features
big musical numbers including the evergreen Scooby-Doo theme song, ‘Scooby-Doo, Where Are You?’ alongside fun new songs including ‘We’re Mystery Inc.’,
‘Round Every Corner’ and ‘A Musical Mystery’.


This rollicking live theatre show brings everyone’s favourite cartoon series to life in a bright and hilarious way. Filled with wacky new characters and hilarious antics, the all-new SCOOBY-DOO LIVE! MUSICAL MYSTERIES has young audiences on the edge of their seats in traditional Scooby-Doo fashion from the moment the lights go down.


“Scooby-Doo is one the most beloved and iconic characters in
all of popular culture and we are thrilled to be able to bring Scooby and the gang to our Australian and New Zealand fans in a way that is truly spectacular, with a live show that the entire family will love,” says Preston Kevin Lewis, Managing Director, Warner Bros. Consumer Products, Australia and New Zealand.


Don’t miss this Australian-made musical that’s fast becoming a
family favourite! SCOOBY-DOO LIVE! MUSICAL MYSTERIES tours
Theatre Royal, Sydney and Riverside Theatres, Parramatta during
the April school holidays – book now at ScoobyDooLive.com.au


Scooby-Doo’s been delighting families on the small screen for more than 40 years and today, with
over 360 episodes aired in 16 countries nearly 50 times per day and over 500 million DVDs sold worldwide, Scooby-Doo is universally adored by boys and girls of all ages.

Monday 30 January 2012

UNDEROATH + DREAM ON, DREAMER Sidewaves announced!



UNDEROATH have evolved and thrived during a decade-long progression that has elevated them into a realm that few bands can lay claim to. Their latest album Ø (Disambiguation) is an artistic rebirth, which empathically surpasses its predecessors…“it’s a master-class in compelling, ambitious heavy music” – Rock Sound

With a reputation for adrenaline charged live performances UNDEROATH will bring the mayhem for two exclusive sidewaves in Sydney and Melbourne


DREAM ON, DREAMER, are one of Australia’s biggest success stories in 2011. Signing to influential US powerhouse Rise Records and with the release of their stellar debut album ‘Heartbound’ which has propelled the band to stages across the globe. 2012 is set to get even bigger for DREAM ON, DREAMER.

Any Questions for Ben? To Premiere In Sydney, Australia



We hear that the Sydney premiere of the rom com Any Questions For Ben? is coming up in Sydney, Australia in less than a week.

With a big name and ultra talented cast, this movie is set to do extremely well in a tough market.

St George Open Air Cinema is tipped for the premiere showing, and actress Rachael Taylor is in Australia to do the honours.

Promo

For 27-year-old Ben (Josh Lawson), life couldn’t be better. A well paid job, friends, parties, girls and nothing to tie him down. But when he is invited back to his old school to join several other ex-students including Alex (Rachael Taylor) and Jim (Ed Kavalee) in talking about their personal achievements, something goes wrong. Ben is the only speaker not to be asked a question by the school kids. This triggers a year of soulsearching and looking for answers in all the wrong places.

From his best friend Andy (Christian Clark) whose solution is that they both take another holiday, to his mentor Sam (Lachy Hulme) who loans him a sports car in the belief that there’s nothing like excessive speed to resolve emotional turmoil. Not even Ben’s father (Rob Carlton) or friends Nick (Daniel Henshall) and Em (Felicity Ward) can offer much in the way of meaningful guidance.

Of course, it’s not easy seeking enlightenment in nightclubs, or on the ski fields of New Zealand, and when you start dating a Russian tennis star things can get really complicated. As the poster boy for a generation desperate to tick every box, Ben begins to suspect that the meaning of life may well reside in the things he's already doing - and a girl he used to know.

Stars: Josh Lawson, Rachael Taylor, Daniel Henshall, Felicity Ward, Christian Clark, Jodi Gordon
Director: Rob Sitch
Distributor: Roadshow Films
Cinema Release: 9 Feb 2012

Websites

Village Roadshow Australia

St George Open Air Cinema

Working Dog

Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr

Eva Rinaldi Photography

Media Man News

Music News Australia

MORNING OF THE EARTH - THE ORIGINAL FILM AND MUSIC - CELEBRATES 40 YEARS WITH AN EAST COAST CONCERT TOUR


What was the surfing scene like 40 years ago? Surfers did not have to wear leg ropes.  Michael Peterson was the current Australian champion and Bali took off as a surf destination for many surfers. Let’s go back there....

MORNING OF THE EARTH, released in 1972, was the first surf film to capture the nomadic life of Australian surfers. Back by popular demand after sold out shows in Melbourne and Sydney in 2008 and celebrating forty years since its release, Morning Of The Earth - the original film and music - will be Live In Concert again from the 19th January to the 5th February 2012 performing in Melbourne, Dromana, Newcastle, Brisbane and Sydney with more to be announced.  

With the blessing of the film’s creator, Albe Falzon, MORNING OF THE EARTH has been re-edited and remastered to highlight the simple beauty of one of the few true Australian Classic Films and its story - the dream of every surfer to search for the perfect wave (across Australia’s North coast, Bali and Hawaii). The film is still the largest selling surf DVD in Australian History.  Each new generation seems to resonate with the film and soundtrack, having captured the true ethos and spirit of surfing in a unique and inspiring manner. Incredible new footage from film surf makers, such as David Rastovich, will also be shown at the show.  

Albe Falzon said; “Morning of the Earth has stood the test of time and perhaps is more important today in view of the increased number of people on the planet and the demands they are having on its resources and eco systems. We need more than ever to be reminded of this fragile system we have inherited and to a certain extent Morning of the Earth is a reminder that we are all truly responsible for our decisions and actions. It is important that we individually and collectively embody those qualities that will ensure that we live a sustainable life, not one based on over production and over consumption but one based on sensitivity to all life and on all levels on this Earth. Morning of the Earth reflects in a simple way how we can endure and sustain and enjoy our life here and leave a small footprint and a better world in our passing.”
MORNING OF THE EARTH had no narration but instead a soundtrack made up on songs written specifically for the movie.  The soundtrack became a top 10 hit and was the first compilation CD to reach Gold status and has now gone platinum several times over.  Audiences can expect to be taken back to when life was simpler enjoying an array of country-soul and psych folk-songs including ‘Simple Ben’, ‘Making It On Your Own’, ‘Open Your Heart’.    The songs have summer written all over them and as the saying goes ‘great music never dies’ and is well represented here.

Performing at the 40th Anniversary Celebration of Morning Of The Earth – The Original Film and Music Live In Concert- will be original performers Brian Cadd, guitarist Tim Gaze (Tamam Shud) and special guests Mike Rudd (Spectrum), Lior and Gyan.  

Original performer, singer and songwriter Brian Cadd says “Forty  years ago I was privileged to be involved in writing and producing music for a revolutionary new kind of surf movie: MORNING OF THE EARTH. Freedom and breaking the rules was the order of the day and a most unique and eclectic collection of music became the 'dialogue' running under Albe's superb pictures. Four decades on we are finally marrying this music with those pictures again, this time in a live performance setting. Incredibly exciting.   
Guest performing artist Gyan says, “I’m totally thrilled to be involved with MOTE especially having the opportunity to sing one the most beautiful songs from the album ‘I’m Alive’…I have always carried a copy of the record around with me since I left home …it was and still is an all time favorite for me. Growing up so close to the whole surf scene in Torquay was a perfect backdrop for such a record full of such great mantras for our lifestyle.’

Don’t miss this opportunity to see one of the greatest surfing films ever made – reignited with its original soundtrack performed live in concert by a mix of this country’s best classic and contemporary music talent.
MORNIING OF THE EARTH – THE ORIGINAL FILM AND MUSIC LIVE IN CONCERT DATES:
Tickets on sale now

MELBOURNE: REGENT THEATRE
Thursday 19th and Friday 20th January 2012
Tickets via www.ticketmaster.com.au  ph: 1300 11 10 11  

DROMANA, VICTORIA: DROMANA DRIVE IN
Saturday 21st January 2012
Tickets via www.ticketmaster.com.au ph: 136 100  

NEWCASTLE: CIVIC THEATRE
Tuesday 24th January 2012
www.ticketek.com.au   02  4929 1977

BRISBANE: CONCERT HALL - QUEENSLAND PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE
Friday 27th January 2012
Qtix www.qpac.com.au  136 246   

GOLD COAST: THE ARTS CENTRE

Multi-platinum Californian based alt/funk rockers Incubus will head down under this month to deliver shows around the nation in support of their seventh and latest album, 'If Not Now, When?'.

Incubus tour - Sydney


Venue:
Hordern Pavilion  Lang Road, Moore Park

Date: Friday, February 03, 2012
Website: http://www.enjoyincubus.com/
Hugely influential alternative rock band Incubus have been making music since 1991 and are one of California's most critically acclaimed funk metal acts. The multi platinum quintet achieved mainstream success over ten years ago with the release of their third studio album, Make Yourself, which spawned the epic hit single Drive and other hits like Pardon Me and Stellar.

Since that album's release, Incubus have released four more records and toured the world with the likes of Deftones, Primus, System of a Down, Buckethead, Hoobastank, Mr. Bungle, The Music, Brand New, Sparta and Ben Kweller.

Incubus have just released their first album in five years, If Not Now, When? which was produced by longtime collaborator Brendan O'Brien (Bob Dylan, AC/DC, Pearl Jam). Described by guitarist Michael Einzinger as "a very straightforward, concise album", If Not Now, When? was recorded in the wake of the band's extended hiatus and has spawned two singles, Adolescents and Promises, Promises.

Now, the band will return to Australia for a national tour to promote the new album and perform some of their biggest hits, such as Wish You Were Here, Are You In? and Dig. Incubus will perform at the Hordern Pavilion in Sydney on Friday, February 3; Canberra's Royal Theatre on Saturday, February 4; Adelaide Entertainment Centre on Monday, February 6; Festival Hall in Melbourne on Tuesday, February 7 and Wednesday, February 8; and Brisbane Convention Centre on Friday, February 10.

Legendary Canadian singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen will release his eight years, 'Old Ideas', nationally in Australia today

.
Leonard Cohen releases 'Old Ideas'
Date: Friday, February 03, 2012
Website: http://www.sony.com.au/
Leonard Cohen is a critically-acclaimed singer-songwriter who is most commercially known for his song, Hallelujah, which has been covered by artists such as Jeff Buckley, Rufus Wainwright and K.D. Lang.

The Grammy award winning artist has released 11 studio albums during his 40-year career, the latest of which, Old Ideas, is the distinguished musician's first full length feature record in eight years.

The legendary American soul and R&B singer Natalie Cole will visit Australia for a national tour this month accompanied by leading orchestras around the country.



Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney
Date: Thursday, February 02, 2012 to Saturday, February 04, 2012
Website: http://www.nataliecole.com/
Natalie released her debut album Inseparable in 1975 and became a star in her own right with the #1 single 'This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)', earning her first two Grammy Awards in 1976. Her 1987 album Everlasting was a cohesive merge of eighties dance floor funk and tasteful adult contemporary tributes, producing the hits - Pink Cadillac, Jump Start, Everlasting, I Live For Your Love, When I Fall In Love and I've Got Love on My Mind.

The seminal 1991 jazz collection, Unforgettable... With Love, was Natalie's tribute to her father. It included the posthumous duet Unforgettable, sold more than fourteen million copies worldwide and received six Grammy Awards. Recent albums have brought the hits Miss You Like Crazy, Sophisticated Lady, 'Inseparable', Our Love and Over You amongst others.

Amnesty International releases 'Chimes of Freedom: The Songs of Bob Dylan'

Amnesty International releases 'Chimes of Freedom: The Songs of Bob Dylan'

Amnesty International has partnered with Universal Music and will release a special four disc album of songs by music legend Bob Dylan, covered by some of today's leading musicians, nationally today.
Website: http://www.amnesty.org.au/
More than 80 artists from across the musical spectrum have created their own interpretation of legendary singer-songwriter Bob Dylan's music on this album, which is being released through Universal Music in partnership with Amnesty International.

Musicians such as Sting, Adele, Johnny Cash, Maroon 5, Miley Cyrus and Neil Finn all contribute on the album, which honours both the 50th anniversary of Dylan's debut album and the founding of the not-for-profit organisation.

Sunday 29 January 2012

Chinese New Year In Sydney; Chinatown Gets Dragon, Pandas




Chinese New Year was celebrated with a dragon, pandas and more, in Chinatown earlier this evening.

2900 plus oriental performers from China, Korea, Vietnam and, Sydney participated in the evening parade to welcome the Year of the Dragon.

A massive dragon headed up a parade of dancers, acrobats and fire breathing types from Sydney Town Hall to downtown Chinatown to wish Sydney a Happy Lunar New Year.

For many the float of 20 pandas on unicycles was their favourite part of the night. The panda performers hailed from the National Song and Dance Theatre Company from Chengdu, China.

The freakish sized panda is China's rarest national treasure. Panda follows estimate that only 1500 still inhabit the planet, with 80 per cent of these in the Chengdu region - in the Sichuan province in China's south-west.

“Giant pandas are loved the world over. This puppet performance will thrill the tens of thousands of people who line Sydney's streets for our fabulous parade,” lord mayor Clover Moore said.

Light projections along the parade route helped transform the city into a mini-Hong Kong.

The parade commenced at 8pm finished off at Darling Harbour with a fireworks show.

May the power of the dragon and panda be with you.

Websites

Sydney Chinese New Year Festival

City of Sydney official website

Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr

Eva Rinaldi Photography

Music News Australia

Star Wars: Episode 1 The Phantom Menace 3D Coming To Sydney, Australia



Star Wars fans of all ages and from all parts of the galaxy - especially Sydney, Australia. Out of this world news for you... the Star Wars franchise is coming to the mean streets of Sydney for a red carpet movie premiere this Sunday.

Find your cape, sword, laser gun and camera and be there fellow Storm Troopers.

Official media information...

STAR WARS: EPISODE 1 THE PHANTOM MENACE 3D

20th Century Fox is taking the Star Wars phenomenon to a whole new level and generation when a who’s who of talent from Australian television, radio, sport and entertainment and their families take to the red carpet for the Australian Premiere of STAR WARS: EPISODE 1 THE PHANTOM MENACE for the first time in 3D.

George Lucas takes us back to the beginning of the beloved saga, in which Darth Vader is a hopeful nine-year-old boy named Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi is a determined young Jedi knight. This first chapter, which is rich in art, design, costumes, architecture and technology, follows Anakin’s journey as he pursues his dreams and confronts his fears in the midst of a galaxy in turmoil.

WHAT: STAR WARS: EPISODE 1 THE PHANTOM MENACE 3D AUSTRALIAN PREMIERE
WHERE: EVENT CINEMAS, GEORGE STREET, SYDNEY
WHEN: SUNDAY 5th FEBRUARY 2012
RED CARPET ARRIVALS: 11.00AM
FILM COMMENCES: 11.45AM

VIP GUESTS INCLUDE: ROB MILLS, CHARLOTTE DAWSON, GLENN MCGRATH, JASON STEVENS, NASH EDGERTON, CHRIS BATH, RICHARD WILKINS, GARY MEHIGAN, MANU FEILDEL, LARRY EMDUR, DAMIEN LEITH, MATTHEW HAYDEN, CHARLIE BROWN, HARRY COOK, MAEVE O’MEARA, MARK DAVIS, CANDICE DIXON, BARRY DU BOIS, RACHEL FINCH, MIA FREEDMAN, SOPHIE HENSSER, MELISSA HOYER, PETER KURUVITA, GORDANA WILLESSEE, STEVE BISLEY, PJ MADAM, MIGUEL MAESTRE, ROBERT MAMMONE, ERIN MOYLAND, JUSTIN NORTH, TRACY SPICER, LEANNA WALSMAN, MATT MORAN, MATT SHIRVINGTON, ANTHONY FIELD, STEFANO CANTURI among others, plus DARTH MAUL and Star Wars STORM TROOPERS!

STAR WARS: EPISODE 1 THE PHANTOM MENACE 3D is released in cinemas nationally on FEBRUARY 9th 2012

Websites

Star Wars official website

Lucas Film

Lucas Arts

Event Cinemas

The Lantern Group

Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr

Eva Rinaldi Photography

Media Man News

Music News Australia

Chinese New Year Parade - Sydney


Chinese New Year Parade - Sydney

Venue:
Sydney Town Hall 483 George Street, Sydney
Date: Sunday, January 29, 2012
Website: http://www.sydneychinesenewyear.com.au/
Starting at 8:00pm tonight, Sydney's streets will host a stunning night time procession of costumes, giant lanterns, lights and illuminated floats to welcome in the Lunar New Year and the beginning of the Year of the Dragon.

The Chinese New Year Parade is the highlight of Sydney's annual celebrations, offering dynamic live music, amazing floats, flamboyant dragons, dazzling costumes, beautiful illuminated zodiac lanterns and much more. More than 2,900 local and international performers will feature in this street spectacular, including 135 artists from Chengdu showing off their stunning Panda Puppets, Fire Dragons and ethnic dancers.

Sydneysiders will also be wowed by a stunning 18-metre red-and-gold fire dragon, which 20 performers in colourful costumes will steer, twist and turn to the tune of gongs and drums. The dragon has a 4,000 year-old history in the town of Huanglongxi, on the outskirts of Chengdu, in central China.

J. Edgar Movie Review: Leonardo DiCaprio brilliant



This is the biopic of J. Edgar Hoover, the founding director of the FBI.

Leonardo DiCaprio was sure brave in taking on this acting challenge. 

At 37, he's already played billionaire Howard Hughes (The Aviator), junkie Jim Carroll (The Basketball Diaries), great impostor Frank Abagnale Jr. (Catch Me If You Can) and Shakespeare's Romeo. 

In J. Edgar, DiCaprio plays Hoover in both his twenties and seventies.

He is America's most feared and hated top law enforcement official ... at the FBI.

DiCaprio is brilliant in this role, and without him the film would be a lot less interesting in my estimation. Leo pretty much saves the film.

Until his death in 1972, J. Edgar Hoover ruled the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Not even eight presidents could stop him getting his way more often than not.

For half a century Hoover nosed into private lives to keep his enemies in check, and he even kept files on some friends also. Hoover was not without his own secrets too - being gay being potentially the most dangerous.

His gayness seems to add an unique warmth to the film that otherwise may not have existed.

Director Clint Eastwood, now 81, and Oscar-winning Milk screenwriter Dustin Lance Black, 37, have done a great job with what could have easily been fairly bland material. Those into Leo or political films will love it, but that's not everyone.

The matter of Hoover taking a liking to women's clothing is touched on, but not over-done.

The film spends a lot of time focusing on those closest to J. Edgar Hoover: his mum, Annie Hoover (Judi Dench); his protective secretary, Helen Gandy (Naomi Watts); and FBI associate director Clyde Tolson (Armie Hammer), the lawyer who became J. Edgar's constant companion.

Hoover's greatest love appeared to be the United States and his need to protect it from commies and radicals. 

Eastwood covers Hoover's rise and sorts out fact from fiction. Hoover did popularize fingerprinting and the collection of forensic evidence, but he also had a penchant for giving himself credit where it wasn't due, for killing gangster John Dillinger, solving the kidnapping of Charles Lindbergh's baby, and being the ultimate G-man, making arrests and capturing bad guys.

Director: Clint Eastwood
Stars: Leonardo DiCaprio, Armie Hammer, Naomi Watts, Josh Lucas, Judi Dench

Websites

J. Edgar official website

Leonardo DiCaprio official website

Roadshow Films Australia

Media Man News

Music News Australia



Saturday 28 January 2012

Leonardo DiCaprio wants a girl like his mother

Leonardo DiCaprio says his ideal woman is like his mother. 
The 'J. Edgar' actor is currently dating model Erin Heatherton but he admits any girlfriend has a lot to live up to because he compares them to his beloved mum, Irmelin.He said: "My mother is the centre of my life. To have a woman like that in your life, who is strong, who'll be honest with you about who you are... that's something I treasure. And it's something I look for in a woman."Leonardo - who has previously dated models Gisele Bundchen and Bar Refaeli - also revealed how his love life suffered when he starred in 1997 blockbuster 'Titanic', because it transformed him into a worldwide heartthrob.Leonardo - who starred in the romantic blockbuster alongside Kate Winslet - is quoted by the Daily Express newspaper as saying:
 "I had better success meeting girls before I did the film. My interactions with them didn't have the stigma behind it."Last year, the 37-year-old actor split from 'Gossip Girl' actress Blake Lively after five months of dating and has been linked to several models since.
Leonardo has previously admitted he is unsure if he will ever marry because seeing other people's failed unions has put him off tying the knot.He explained: "I don't know whether I'll ever get married. I've seen too many supposedly happy marriages go down. I've been as shocked as anyone."No one can look at the marriages of other people and make a judgment. I don't know the private lives of the actors I work with. I just know if they are good actors or good directors."

Ronan Keating And Sharon Corr At State Theatre, Sydney, Australia - Australia Day Review



The State Theatre in the heart of Sydney presented Ronan Keating and Sharon Corr on the evening of Australia Day.

Keating came out to a packed house at the beautiful and elegant State Theatre and received a strong ovation.

He was all smiles and genuinely looked pleased to be there. You could also see him charming the females in the audience, but that's all part of working the crowd.

The fashion conscious Keating, also looking to break into acting, came out in a very stylish grey suit.

My favourite song was the popular 'Life Is A Rollercoaster".

Keating, who most recently has been a judge on the television series The X Factor, was accompanied by a seven-piece band and a string quartet.

The Irish artist is enjoying success with his latest album 'When Ronan Met Burt', with the top-three album approaching platinum status. The album celebrates Keating's teaming with legendary composer Burt Bacharach.

The "When You Say Nothing At All" singer is heading back to the studio to work on solo material following an overseas tour with his group Boyzone last year.

"It's not folk. It's a mix! It's a pop album. Gregg Alexander and I are working together again. It's got that 'Life is a Rollercoaster' feel again. I'm having fun with it again, it's been five years since I've done a studio album. I'm a little bit nervous," the 34-year-old told media.

The theatrical lighting was another highlight of the impressive show.

The concert was great value for money.


Support Act: Sharon Corr

Sharon was brilliant on her first solo tour and was certainly the calibre of talent worthy of opening a show for Ronan Keating.

The Irish sensation wore a green elegant dress and her eyes were highlighted by glittery green eye shadow.

It seems that the artist and her violin are one, and that's not totally surprising since she's been playing since age 7.

She performed 'So Young', 'Joy Of Life' and 'Radio'.

Over the course of their 15-year career, The Corrs sold more than 40 millions albums worldwide, featuring massive singles such as ‘Runaway’, ‘Radio’, ‘Forgiven Not Forgotten’, ‘So Young’ and ‘Breathless’.

Her name, Sharon, means a princess of exotic beauty, and from what I witnessed that seems a fair assessment.

Sharon Corr will be the special guest support on all of the Australian shows.


Bio of Sharon Corr

Grammy Nominee/Brit Award Winner, singer/songwriter and violinist – hugely successful both as a member of legendary Irish group The Corrs and now as a solo artist.

Much has been written about the incredible talent for melodies  The Corrs  exhibited throughout their 15 year long career. Their unique blend of Celtic/Pop/Rock sold over 40 million albums. 

They toured arenas and stadiums across the globe.  With a string  of massively successful albums and singles played to this day like Runaway, So Young, Radio, Breathless  - The Corrs have been a household name on every continent.   “Music is what makes me tick“ says Sharon and true to that when The Corrs took time off  to focus on their growing families, Sharon – while having her own  2 children - began to write and record her debut solo album  ”Dream Of You“ released in 2010.

“Dream Of You“ is a collection of beautifully crafted, melodic pop gems, a remarkable debut that demands to be listened to in full – each story and melody flowing seamlessly into the next. Album features a stunning version of Mna na hEireann with legend Jeff Beck. If the hits Sharon wrote for The Corrs were her songs of innocence her solo album can be described as her songs of experience.

Sharon has relished her new role as a solo artist: playing festivals such as Glastonbury and the Isle of Wight and touring extensively. Music remains Sharon’s great passion and it is simply who she is and what she does.

Sharon continues to support the causes she believes in. The Corrs were ambassadors of Nelson Mandela’s 46664 Campaign, they took part in Live 8, Pavarotti and Friends for  The Children of Liberia and The Prince’s Trust 2004. They also supported the families and victims of the Omagh bombing. In recognition of their work the band members were awarded MBEs.

Today Sharon is the face of OXFAM Ireland with their recently launched campaign Make Space for OXFAM, she is also a patron of Console – who help prevent suicide and council the suicide bereaved.


Bio of Ronan Keating

With those dazzling poster-boy looks, Ronan Keating became one of Europe's most endearing stars as the leader of the Irish boy band Boyzone. The five Irish lads in Boyzone, who made their debut in 1993, built their charismatic style into one of the biggest European pop/rock acts of the '90s. But before he was winning over the world, Keating was a middle-class kid living in Dublin. Born Ronan Patrick John Keating on March 3, 1977, he was the last of four children in the Keating household. His father, Gerry, was a pub owner and his mother, Marie, was a hairdresser, so financially the Keating family was trying to make ends meet.

The working trudge instilled the desire to work in the youngest Keating. While working in a local shoe store, he noticed a search advertisement for an Irish Take That. The 14-year-old beat out 300 hopefuls with his own rendition of the Cat Stevens song "Father and Son" and was headed toward becoming a celebrity. Boyzone released four albums, every one debuting at number one in the U.K. They released 16 singles, each one charting in the Top Three on the U.K. charts. Most notably, Americans will recognize this five-piece as the dashing young men singing behind U2's Bono in "The Sweetest Thing" video.

Six years into being part of one of the U.K.'s brightest and biggest-selling pop bands, Keating searched for an alternate creative outlet. He began managing another male pop group called Westlife. He married Irish model Yvonne Connelly in April 1998 and the following year they had a son, Jack. Musically, however, Keating's intentions stayed in tune with his internal spirit. He couldn't possibly steer clear of the media spotlight for long and something positive was bound to come of it. He recorded his debut solo effort in early 2000 under the craftsmanship of artists such as Bryan Adams and Barry Gibb. His sensual and childlike persona was full-fledged. He is a working songsmith with the utmost class, and counterparts like Robbie Williams and Gary Barlow might be considered a bit shy of such inborn grace. Ronan was issued overseas in mid-2000, and a U.S. version followed in October.

For 2002's Destination, Keating collaborated with songwriter and ex-New Radicals frontman Gregg Alexander. This album was another smash overseas with hit singles such as "I Love It When We Do" and "I've Got My Heart on You," yet it failed to see a release in the States. Two years later, Keating issued Turn It On. His rendition of Terence Trent D'Arby's "Let Her Down Easy" and songs co-written with Deacon Blue's Ricky Ross were featured in another mature set from the former boy band singer. 10 Years of Hits followed in 2005, and a year later Keating released the studio album Bring You Home. In 2009 Keating released the heartfelt tribute album Songs for My Mother, which was dedicated to his late mother, Marie, who had passed away from breast cancer in 1998. Keating released a collection of duets, appropriately titled Duet, in 2010. ~ MacKenzie Wilson, Rovi














Websites

Ronan Keating official website

Sharon Corr

State Theatre

Michael Coppel Presents

Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr

Eva Rinaldi Photography

Music News Australia