Monday, 16 July 2007

Death becomes her

15/8/06

Volver: Almodóvar’s fantastic new film, a darkly-comic tale of death in La Mancha.

In his latest film Volver acclaimed Spanish director Almodóvar changes landscape, taking a break from scandal–ridden urban tales of coke-snorting trannies and paedophile priests (Bad Education), HIV-infected pregnant nuns (All About My Mother), and sexually ambiguous men into necrophilia (Talk to Her).

He takes us out of the frenetic city and into the idyllic country - a place which can often be more frightening for some city-bred queens - for fleshy tale of life and death in his native region of La Mancha.

Despite the location change, most elements of a signature Almodóvar film remain intact (with the exception of gratuitous male nudity and gay sex). Volver is as darkly comic and surreal as ever.

He effortlessly combines humour, drama, mystery in a story about a dead mother who revisits the living to patch up old wounds…and have a bit of fun along the way.

Volver has a particularly visceral, yet subdued aesthetic – and is less flashy than his previous films.

Opening on a rural cemetery where elderly women furiously scrub, restore, and decorate tombstones, the film immediately establishes the central theme of death and of the influence the dead have on the living. The dead don’t die, and according to rampant superstitions – sometimes they walk among us.

But Volver is no ghost story - and far from morbid. Volver, essentially, is a film about the family; and it this case, a family of women.

One of Almodóvar’s greatest talent seems to be his ability evoke real appreciation and celebration of women, despite their innate complexities. His characters can commit murder – yet we will still identify with them and appreciate their humanity.

Leading an ensemble of perfectly-cast, well-groomed actresses is the ravishing Penelope Cruz, who stars as the soulful young mother Raimunda, giving the performance of her career.

Some seem quick to criticise her. Perhaps the atrocious film Captain Correlli’s Mandolin can be blamed, but with Volver she redeems herself entirely. We even forgive her for that ridiculous affair with Tom Crazy. And as a spectator, you can really sense an intimate relationship with her director.

Almodóvar, himself, admits fascination with the actress. He explains, “Penelope is at the height of her beauty. It’s a cliché but in her case it’s true. Those eyes, her neck, her shoulders, her breasts! Penelope has got one of the most spectacular cleavages in world cinema.”

Indeed she does. And she has fantastic energy- and an intuitive vulnerability. In one scene, she scrambles around town collecting food to feed her restaurant, and the image of her: struggling, stressing, sweating – is utterly sexy. Not many can pull off that look. Volver is worth seeing - if just to watch Penelope Cruz.

Although Volver may represent one of Almodóvar’s more conventional works, it is, nonetheless, an entirely gratifying piece and perhaps hits a bit closer to home for the audacious director. With summer cinema full of brainless blockbusters it would be a mistake to miss it.

Volver opens nationwide on August 25th.

Click here to watch the trailer

‘N Sync boybander: "I'm gay"

26/7/06

Boybander Lance Bass of ‘N Sync, has officially come out of the closet.

In an interview with People magazine, Bass declared: ”I’m gay”.

For months bloggers have speculated about and ridiculed the pop star’s sexuality, posting pictures of Bass, 27, together with his current beau, reality TV star Reichen Lehmkuhl, 32, of Amazing Race, who started seeing each other earlier this year.

Gossip queen Perez Hilton even posted pictures of the boys on separate occasions, wearing each others clothes – sharing everything from t-shirts to a pair of jeans.

Prompted by the rumours, Lance Bass went to the popular magazine to tell his story.

"I knew that I was in this popular band and I had four other guys' careers in my hand, and I knew that if I ever acted on it or even said (that I was gay), it would overpower everything," Bass told People.

"I didn’t know: Could that be the end of ’N Sync? So I had that weight on me of like, ‘Wow, if I ever let anyone know, it's bad.' So I just never did.”

Earlier this month, when pictures of the Lance and Reichen appeared together in a Provincetown gay bar, the Washington Blade reported that Bass had been outed.

"If privacy is what Lance wants, that's something that's easy to have," Kevin Naff, managing editor of the Washington Blade. "But if you're Lance Bass, and you're going to the gayest town on the gayest day of the year and going to gay parties, you have to expect something."

Bass explained he came out because the rumours “really were starting to affect [his] daily life”.

“Now it feels like it's on my terms. I'm at peace with my family, my friends, myself and God so there's really nothing else that I worry about."

"The thing is, I’m not ashamed – that’s the one thing I want to say."

"I don't think it's wrong, I'm not devastated going through this. I'm more liberated and happy than I’ve been my whole life. I'm just happy."

Last week Darren Hayes, ex-lead singer of Savage Garden, also came out – and announced a civil partnership with his boyfriend of two years.

The Teaches of Peaches continue…

17/7/06

The Queen of sleazy electro rock is back with a vengeance with her latest - Impeach my Bush.

The Queen of sleazy electro rock is back with a vengeance with her latest - Impeach my Bush.

Canadian rocker Peaches, based in Berlin, headed to the Hollywood Hills to record the Fatherfucker follow-up, and although there’s no change of tone, per se (no, the tracks are indeed dirrrtier than ever) this album sounds more fresh, youthful, and poppy than precursors.

Those words may not immediately come to mind when you think of this petulant potty-mouth – but this slicker version of Peaches is more accessible…and a bit more (gasp!) fun.

Fair enough. Her raspy-rapping seems to have inspired a number of incarnations from the likes of Britney to Gwen Stefani – all of whom presented PG-rated versions of Peaches edgier, sexier lyrics – so it’s about time Peaches reclaim her signature sound.

And don’t let the slick, pop-tastic “Downtown”, an ode- to going down….town, put you off. If you prefer hard-rocking, nasty-talking Peaches…there’s plenty of that.

In “Give’er” she shows off a more soulful rock belt – as does “You love it”, which features Joan Jett who contributes on the vocals.

Of course, another favourite is Slippery Dick- featuring some of the most delicious diction to describe…what else, but hardcore sex?

Peaches asks, “Can you cut the mustard to clear the custard?” (I’m not really sure what this means but I like it anyway) and then launches into a cacophony of joyous vulgarity.

And as an artist with a punky post- fem following (reversing gender roles, objectifying men, in-your-face sexuality, etc) she does her audience a service by never taking herself too seriously.

There always seems to be an element of humour or irony in her lyrics - and even though “Impeach my bush” definitely has its political connotations, Peaches thankfully keeps her lyrics as apolitical as possible – with the exception of the title track: “I’d rather fuck who I want than kill who I am told to!”

Amen!

We get the message – and we’re entertained.

And a piece of advice: When Peaches goes on tour- SEE HER. I saw her a few years back and it was one of the most raucous and raunchy shows i've ever seen.

She’s helped me channel my inner sexual rebel. Vulgar was never so fun.

Stars Are Blind

15/6/06

Paris the pop sensation? Check out Ms Hilton's video debut!

We thought we'd never see the day...but alas, our beloved Britney has returned to her white trash roots - only to be replaced by... Paris Hilton?

One word. WHY??

Perhaps money can buy anything. But, sadly, it's not as bad as we hoped. Still, it can't beat that other video.

Click on the links below to watch Stars Are Blind.



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Can't Help Lovin Dat Show!

25/5/06

Enjoy a fabulous night of musical theatre with the spectacular Showboat at the Royal Albert Hall

Hey ya’all!

This one is for all you show queens - we know you're out there!

Enjoy a fabulous night of musical theatre with Showboat at the Royal Albert Hall, where the first time a musical will be staged in the round.

This spectacular brand new production by renowned director Francesa Zambello promises to recapture the nostalgia and romance that surrounds the most influential musical of the twentieth century.

Showboat, which opened on Broadway in 1927, is well regarded for breaking musical theatre ground, as it was the first Broadway score to have a coherent plot and integrated songs.

Adapted by Oscar Hammerstein from Edna Ferber's novel, Showboat dealt with especially racy subject matter for the time - including mixed marriages, gambling, infidelity, illegitimacy.

Sounds like the Archers!

Unlike most Broadway shows of the time - all the relationships are problematic; feckless immature men versus tough women. Oscar Hammerstein, of course, went on to adapt such classics as The King and I and The Sound of Music.

The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra perform Jerome Kern's jazzy score which includes songs such as Ol' Man River, Can't Help Lovin' Dat Man and Only Make Believe, in a stunning new production featuring a huge cast, lavish costumes and dazzling choreography.

Showboat is a classic. Don't miss it!

Showboat will show at the Royal Albert Hall from 10 June - 25 June.

Big Brother Bedlam

This summer’s Big Brother promises to be more outrageous than ever – with an even wilder array of circus freaks (housemates).

The time has come…and already we’re addicted.

This summer’s Big Brother promises to be more outrageous than ever – with an even wilder array of circus freaks (housemates).

What voyeuristic pleasure it’ll be to watch these personalities boil and bubble – with a healthy dose of paranoia and cabin fever. What will Big Brother come up with next!

Here are my first impressions. Sadly, both gays in the house are unforgivably cringe-worthy.

baz
Shahbaz As much as I feel the need to defend my fellow gay-sians, I think this may be the most obnoxious creature I’ve ever seen on television. Obviously very disturbed, this one craves all kinds of attention (especially negative attention) . And what’s with him groping everyone?? Ugh, Keep your hands to yourself!! And now he’s requesting ‘gay solidarity’ with bitchy Richard. If someone has tranquilizers in the house- please shoot up Shahbaz.
Star Quality: 2.5/10

Pete
Pete For all you hard partiers- this one may resemble a character you encounter at your neighborhood afterhours. I’m not sure how appropriate it is to put person suffering Tourette's Syndrome in the house—but then again, they’re all suffering in their own way, aren’t they? Mildly attractive, slightly unnerving, entirely entertaining.
Star Quality: 7.5/10

Lisa
Lisa Sassy, sloppy, and cynical…the perfect recipe for quality fag haggery. Her voice may make your skin crawl – but her swaggering drunken mannerisms, unapologetic attitude to Shahbaz, and fobby Chinese woman impressions definitely have entertainment value.
Star Quality: 6/10

Lea
Lea Plastic boobs, excessively tanned, and resembling Latoya Jackson. Probably has serious baggage. Pure camp, and surprisingly dignified. Boasting the largest breast implants in the UK. Need I say more?
Star Quality: 7/10

Richard
Richard A sexual terrorist? Please. Go back to Canada. Devoid of charm or intelligence, brimming with vanity. And seems to attract attention by perpetuating gay stereotypes. Let’s hope this queen can redeem herself because, at the moment, it’s looking grim. The problem with gay men? One word. Richard.
Star Quality: 4/10


Sezar
Sezar My mind says NO but my body says YES. Although he is ridiculously cocky, has trimmed chest hair, and the word ‘bastard’ often comes to mind – this little entrepreneur does have the most impenetrable sexual energy. Hmm, I wouldn’t say no. And he’s got our attention now that he admitted he’ll “kiss a man, no problem". Hop to it, Richard.
Star Quality: 6.5/10

Imogen
Imogen Sweet and Pretty. Hope she doesn’t give in to Sleazy Sezar. Mmm..that’s it. Points for being attractive.
Star Quality: 5/10
##

Glyn
Glyn As pleasant as you can hope a straight 18-year-old BB housemate to be. A bit tricky to understand his speech. Doesn’t like to be groped by strange men, which he carefully explained to the belligerent gay-sian (Shabaz) who still insists he has the ‘right to be tactile’. Ugh. Glyn, you have my permission to wallop the bitch if she touches you.
Star Quality: 3.5/10

Bonnie
Bonnie Let’s just call her Boner for entertainment sake. Or maybe Boring? Poor thing seemed a bit frightened of all the crazies in the house. I imagine the only way she’ll be able to provide entertainment is by having a breakdown. At the moment, dull and forgettable.
Star Quality: 2/10

George
George Another posh Chelsea brat. Apparently a momma’s boy. Who cares? Why is he there? It was vaguely amusing to watch him squirm with discomfort upon initially meeting his new housemates. He’ll be out soon.
Star Quality: 1/10


Mikey
Mikey Dreamy Welsh model. Mmmm. Reserved, quiet, and likes to cuddle. We’d like to imagine he’s a stud in the sack… and well hung.
Star Quality: 5/10

Grace
Grace The pampered, mildly patronising dance teacher hasn’t impressed us much . I sense a bit of a mean streak…which could potentially be fun. Already the two dancers – Grace and Nikki – are developing a bit of a competition. What will come of it?
Star Quality: 4.5/10

Dawn
Dawn Slightly concerned that girlfriend wants to be reincarnated as Jesus/Hitler, but this lady has held it together and seems to be one of the most level-headed heads in the house. Self- described as ‘serious and determined’, Dawn wins extra points for tactfully slamming Shahbaz. "Verbally I could destroy you, your puns are just shit," she told him bluntly. "You're a parody of John Inman and Mrs Doubtfire. You're a rubbish comedian because you've got no sense of humour." Pure genius. Minus a point for alleged BO.
Star Quality: 9/10

Nikki
Nikki I know this ‘wannabe footballer's wife ‘ may not be everyone’s cup’a tea, but I have to admit- her freak-out about Dawn’s alleged BO- has given us the giggles. Upon finding a sweatshirt that Dawn had been sitting on, Nikki questions the other girls " Why doesn't she[Dawn] just wear deodorant? It must be her fanny and her arse that smell bad then." Mmm. Let’s take a minute to thank channel 4 for this moment of TV heaven. Hoorah for tactless blonds! Someone’s gotta stir the shit.
Star Quality: 8.5/10

Stay tuned!

Hips Don't Lie

9/5/06

Aye, pappi! The Latin lovely Shakira seduces us with her hypnotic hips. Check out the video!

"My hips tell me where and when I should move. And my hips don't lie - my hips tell me the truth."

Work it, baby, work it!

While Britney's knocked-up and lactating and Christina's getting dirty with her hubby, pop goddess Shakira returns with a bang - and doesn't disappoint- with her saucy new video for "Hips Don't Lie".

Famed for her literary prowess, in this latest offering, Shakira may be implying her swivelling hips have intuitive powers to match her infamous mind.

GAY.COM has another video exclusive, featuring the new single with Wyclef Jean, where you can marvel at her mind-boggling body control.

Never mind pilates and yoga, the next craze is bound to be the Shakira Hip Workout! Enjoy.

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