MILLION DOLLAR ARM opens in theaters on May 16, 2014. In the meantime, enjoy some preview clips!
Author: FCA Editor
Chances Are – 25th Anniversary Edition Blu-ray
Sometimes little charming movies come along that stand the test of time…literally. That’s the case with Chances Are, an entertaining film about love, loss, and second chances.
Cybill Shepherd, Robert Downey, Jr., Ryan O’Neal, and Mary Stuart Masterson star in this delightful 1989 movie. Corinne (Shepherd) is happily married to Louie (Christopher McDonald). They are completely and totally in love and devoted to each other. Then, on their first anniversary Louie is killed, leaving Corinne pregnant and alone. Well, she’s not completely alone. Their best friend Phillip (O’Neal) is there for her. Phillip has always loved Corinne.
Upon his death Louie finds himself in heaven and anxious to return to Corinne and his unborn child. He discovers the only way to return to earth is to be reborn.
Flash forward twenty something years and Corinne’s daughter Miranda (Masterson) is a law student. Alex (Downey) has just graduated from Yale and is trying to get a job at the Washington Post, where Phillip works. Phillip meets Alex by accident. This young man endears himself to Phillip who takes pity on the poor college graduate. He brings him to Corinne’s for dinner. It’s there where the characters get a bit mixed up.
Alex discovers he was Louie in a past life. He has feelings for Miranda, but knowing she is – or was – his daughter complicates things. And he also wants to re-ignite his relationship with Corinne. How exactly is he going to get her to recognize that he was – is – Louie? And if she does, how will that work? She’s old enough to be his mother!
In the meantime, Miranda and Phillip must try to figure out their own relationships with Alex and Corinne, respectively. The dynamics of this foursome are about to change dramatically.
Ryan O’Neal is utterly charming and loveable in this film. If you didn’t fall for him in Love Story, you will in Chances Are.
Chances Are is rated PG.
About the Author
Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment business for 20 years. She also writes about technology and has been a travel writer for the past 12 years. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.
Follow her on Twitter
Like her on Facebook
Gidget TV Series DVD GIVEAWAY
In her first professional acting job, Sally Field landed the coveted role of Gidget, based on the book then movies, which were all based on the story of Frederick Kohner who wrote about the experiences of his daughter Kathy. Who knew that the name Gidget would still be synonymous with small girl surfers over fifty years later?
The TV series ran from 1965-1966 and now all 32 episodes are available in one DVD pack. And you have the opportunity to win a copy for yourself!
To be eligible to win a copy of Gidget: The TV Series, email us at [email protected] with “Gidget Giveaway” in the title. Please supply your name, address, phone number and email address (so we can let you know if you are a winner).
The deadline for this giveaway is May 15, 2014.
The Four King Cousins – More Today Than Yesterday CD
The King Family entertained audiences for decades, starting out as the King Trio, then advancing to the King Sisters, then the King Family, which included the King Cousins and the King Kiddies. They entertained on the radio, in concert, and even on their own TV show. The King Family was – and still is – a talented group. One must wonder if it is in the DNA or perhaps something they eat. Whatever, they are filled with talent from their heads to their toes. The King Cousins are carrying on the tradition of their mothers. Today Tina, Cathy, Carolyn, and Candy are back together recording and performing in concert.
Live In Concert
After, as Tina says, “thirty something” years away from performing, the quartet is together again. They recently performed their second concert at the Catalina Jazz Club in Hollywood and wowed the audience with plenty of great music, King family history, and a lot of fun.
Listening to the Four King Cousins sing, it was as if I were hearing their mothers. They have a wonderful blend of voices, and when they sing “with” the King Sisters (via a video playing in the background), they bring back memories of the good old days. And with a montage of their past appearances on TV, audiences will find themselves remembering how adorable their clothes were whenever they appeared. It’s kind of like a brief blast from the past.
They talk about the history of the family and audience members might be surprised to learn that the in-laws were just as musical and successful as the sisters. Although it wasn’t a requirement to be a success in the music industry to marry a member of the King family, it sure seems as though many Kings gravitated to men in the business, thereby spawning another talented generation.
Today Tina Cole is the matriarch of the family. Besides being a talented singer, Tina also co-starred in the popular sitcom My Three Sons, playing Robbie Douglas’ wife. She has also appeared in other TV shows and movies.
More Today Than Yesterday CD
The Four King Cousins recently released More Today Than Yesterday, a new CD featuring songs from the 60s and 70s. This CD brings back a lot of memories to listeners who had their radios on during those years.
“On a Clear Day (You Can See Forever)”, “More Today Than Yesterday”, “Lazy Day”, “Happy Heart”, “Tell All the World About You”, “Your Mother Should Know”, “I Couldn’t Live Without Your Love”, “What Now My Love”, “Happy Together”, “Move a Little Closer, Baby”, “Leavin’ It All Behind”, “Bridge Over Troubled Water”, “I Write the Songs”, and “Look At Me” combine to make a memorable collection of songs from the past. On a personal note, I have been playing this CD in my car for the past month and every time it comes on I know I am in for some fun music that makes the drive more enjoyable.
The King Cousins have always created interesting arrangements in their music. This new CD is no exception. Many of the tracks were songs they sang decades ago on the King Family TV show. They have a fun and unique interpretation of the songs, which makes them stand out among other groups.
The Four King Cousins
Tina, Cathy, Carolyn, and Candy – aka The Four King Cousins – are together again and making great music. They will be performing in concerts so check their website for updates. www.fourkingcousins.com
About the Author
Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment business for 20 years. She also writes about technology and has been a travel writer for the past 12 years. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.
Follow her on Twitter
Like her on Facebook
The Four King Cousins
The King Family entertained audiences for decades, starting out as the King Trio, then advancing to the King Sisters, then the King Family, which included the King Cousins and the King Kiddies. They entertained on the radio, in concert, and even on their own TV show. The King Family was – and still is – a talented group. One must wonder if it is in the DNA or perhaps something they eat. Whatever, they are filled with talent from their heads to their toes. The King Cousins are carrying on the tradition of their mothers. Today Tina, Cathy, Carolyn, and Candy are back together recording and performing in concert.
Live In Concert
After, as Tina says, “thirty something” years away from performing, the quartet is together again. They recently performed their second concert at the Catalina Jazz Club in Hollywood and wowed the audience with plenty of great music, King family history, and a lot of fun.
Listening to the Four King Cousins sing, it was as if I were hearing their mothers. They have a wonderful blend of voices, and when they sing “with” the King Sisters (via a video playing in the background), they bring back memories of the good old days. And with a montage of their past appearances on TV, audiences will find themselves remembering how adorable their clothes were whenever they appeared. It’s kind of like a brief blast from the past.
They talk about the history of the family and audience members might be surprised to learn that the in-laws were just as musical and successful as the sisters. Although it wasn’t a requirement to be a success in the music industry to marry a member of the King family, it sure seems as though many Kings gravitated to men in the business, thereby spawning another talented generation.
Today Tina Cole is the matriarch of the family. Besides being a talented singer, Tina also co-starred in the popular sitcom My Three Sons, playing Robbie Douglas’ wife. She has also appeared in other TV shows and movies.
More Today Than Yesterday CD
The Four King Cousins recently released More Today Than Yesterday, a new CD featuring songs from the 60s and 70s. This CD brings back a lot of memories to listeners who had their radios on during those years.
“On a Clear Day (You Can See Forever)”, “More Today Than Yesterday”, “Lazy Day”, “Happy Heart”, “Tell All the World About You”, “Your Mother Should Know”, “I Couldn’t Live Without Your Love”, “What Now My Love”, “Happy Together”, “Move a Little Closer, Baby”, “Leavin’ It All Behind”, “Bridge Over Troubled Water”, “I Write the Songs”, and “Look At Me” combine to make a memorable collection of songs from the past. On a personal note, I have been playing this CD in my car for the past month and every time it comes on I know I am in for some fun music that makes the drive more enjoyable.
The King Cousins have always created interesting arrangements in their music. This new CD is no exception. Many of the tracks were songs they sang decades ago on the King Family TV show. They have a fun and unique interpretation of the songs, which makes them stand out among other groups.
The Four King Cousins
Tina, Cathy, Carolyn, and Candy – aka The Four King Cousins – are together again and making great music. They will be performing in concerts so check their website for updates. www.fourkingcousins.com
About the Author
Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment business for 20 years. She also writes about technology and has been a travel writer for the past 12 years. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.
Follow her on Twitter
Like her on Facebook
Non Stop Movie Clip
The 41st Annual Topanga Days Rocks the Canyon with Music, Food, and Fun for the Entire Family!
Memorial Day Weekend – May 24-26, 2014
LA’s largest, longest running and most anticipated bohemian festival and country fair returns this Memorial Day Weekend with live music, gourmet, organic and downhome food and beverages from local vendors,arts and crafts and fun-filled activities for the entire family
Musical Headliners include:
VENICE (as seen on NBC’s THE VOICE), ROYAL SOUTHERN BROTHERHOOD (rare CA performance),
THE JERRY GARCIA BAND (featuring MELVIN SEALS), LUKAS NELSON & P.O.T.R.
County Supervisor Zev Yaroslovsky is the Grand Marshal of the Topanga Days Annual Memorial Day Parade
The 41st ANNUAL TOPANGA DAYS COUNTRY FAIR takes place Saturday-Monday, May 24-26 at the Topanga Community House, 1440 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd., Topanga, CA 90290, halfway between the Ventura Blvd and the PCH. Fair hours are from 10am-7pm daily. Free shuttle service is available along Topanga Canyon Blvd., check website for official stops. General admission: $25; TCC Members &Military: $15; Children 6-12 & Seniors: $15; Children 5 & under admitted free. Military enter free on Monday. Click here for information.
Apple Mortgage Cake on UP TV
Kimberly Elise stars in the inspiring and amazing story based on the actual story of Angela Logan, a woman who was about to lose her home but who used her talent and ingenuity to save not only her home but also her family. Apple Mortgage Cake will not only amaze viewers, but also leave them feeling happy and maybe a bit hungry.
Angela is a 40 year-old divorced mother of three boys. She is active in her church and the local high school’s activities. She also volunteers at a local charity that helps women get back on their feet. This is a woman who looks after everyone and soon discovers that she is in need of a little help herself.
With her house having been damaged by a flood and a storm, and the contractor having absconded with the money she paid him, Angela learns that her home is going to be foreclosed on and she is about to lose the one house she has ever known. As hard as she tries, she cannot find a way to earn the $4000 she needs to keep her home. She has two weeks to raise the money or she and her sons will be evicted.
With the help and advice of someone from her past, she decides to try to raise the money by selling her amazing apple cakes. If she can sell 100 – at $40 each – she will be able to pay the mortgage.
Melvin (Kevin Hanchard) knew Angela years earlier and they were good friends. Now he is back in her life fully committed to helping her and her family. But Angela is too proud to take any help from anyone. She is even scared to enter into the romantic relationship Melvin is pushing for. Her independence stands in her way. She is committed to getting through this desperate situation by herself. Well, with just a little help from Melvin. And some from her sons. And maybe from her friends.
The local news picks up Angela’s story and soon she is a big success. This is definitely a fun story and leaves viewers feeling satisfied and encouraged. And take it from me – someone who has sampled the delicious cake – viewers will want to order one for themselves. Near the end of the film will be a discount code to order a cake.
At a recent press conference, Kimberly Elise and Angela Logan discussed the made-for-TV movie with members of the Television Critics Association.
“I bake a lot. I cook a lot. I’m a vegan and so I make a lot of my own food. And so it was very natural to go in there and bake and have this experience,” Elise told the gathered journalists.
As for the woman on whom the story is based, Angela Logan explained, “I bake every night practically. And we’ve been baking for the past five years. We do farmers markets primarily. We sell to restaurants and to specialty stores.”
When asked what she felt while watching the filming of the movie, Logan confided, “It’s very difficult for me to watch that without crying. And I was talking about the fact that every time I watch Kimberly do a scene, you’d think after the third take, I’d stop crying.” She added, “Watching it in third person is very difficult because I’m reliving a lot of the things. It was a very difficult time. It was a very painful time. And Kimberly made it true to life. She brought it all back. The film and the writing, everything, directing, brought it all back. It was very difficult to watch scene by scene without tears.”
Yes, some dramatic license went into making the movie, but the story is true. The people are real. The cake is delicious. And the movie is endearing.
Apple Mortgage Cake premiers on UP Sunday, April 20, 2014.
About the Author
Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment business for 20 years. She also writes about technology and has been a travel writer for the past 12 years. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.
Follow her on Twitter
Like her on Facebook
Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty on PBS’ Great Performances
This is not your mother’s Sleeping Beauty Ballet. Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty is a completely reimagined version of the classic ballet, with the music by Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky.
This version of the classic fairytale is not a traditional telling of the story. It is still the story of good versus evil, and the little princess who went to sleep and was awakened by true love’s kiss. This version, however, is a completely new and inventive telling of the tale.
The ballet begins in 1890, the same year the original ballet was first performed. Aurora is born and is cursed. Then the ballet advances to 1911 when the young princess comes of age and the curse comes into play. The final act takes place a century later. Aurora has been asleep for a hundred years and her story brings tourists to the gates of the castle to see where the sleeping princess lays. When she finally awakens, she encounters a completely different world than the one she remembers. But evil still stalks the princess. She must be saved yet again by her true love.
This re-interpreted version of Sleeping Beauty might hold some appeal to teens who have never seen the classic ballet but know the story. Actually, if they don’t know the story it is something they might enjoy, as this version includes vampires, something that is popular in today’s pop culture. There are some humorous parts as well, which is something unfamiliar to the classic ballet.
On a personal note: I was not as enchanted by this version because I truly enjoy the traditional ballets. This is definitely not traditional. However it is interesting. I can see the appeal to viewers, especially those who enjoy all forms of dance and new interpretations.
With Disney’s highly anticipated Maleficent movie coming out soon, and the special edition of the Disney classic animated Sleeping Beauty feature film coming out on Blu-ray this year, the story of Aurora is front and center. This new version of the Sleeping Beauty ballet is another way to experience the fairy tale.
Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty premiers Friday, April 25, 2014 on PBS’ Great Performances.
About the Author
Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment business for 20 years. She also writes about technology and has been a travel writer for the past 12 years. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.
Follow her on Twitter
Like her on Facebook
Disneynature’s Bears
In an epic story of breathtaking scale set against a majestic Alaskan backdrop teeming with life, Disneynature’s 2014 big-screen adventure Bears follows a bear family as impressionable young cubs are taught life’s most important lessons.