The winner receives two round trip airfare tickets to New York City for the premiere of the film, two nights hotel stay in Manhattan, a digital camera, autographed FIX merchandise, including an autographed script of the movie, and press and photo ops on the red carpet.  Since this is a viral video contest, the winner will also have their viral video screened in front of the entire audience during the premiere. To enter contest, click this link.

FIX’s Synopsis

Racing across Los Angeles in one, unwieldy day, documentary filmmakers Bella and Milo must race from Beverly Hills to Watts — and places in between — in order to get Milo’s brother Leo from jail to rehab before 8pm, or Leo goes to prison for three years. A story inspired by true events, the trio documents their trip from a suburban police station in Calabasas through mansions in Beverly Hills, East LA chopshops, rural wastelands, and housing projects in Watts as they attempt to raise the $5,000 required to get Leo into the rehab clinic. Along the way they encounter dozens of colorful characters, each with their own anomalous perspective on Leo’s larger-than-life personality and style, and each with their own excuse for why they cannot help out. In the end, it may take the desperate irony of a drug deal to get the necessary funds to send Leo to rehab. FIX stars Shawn Andrews, Olivia Wilde, Megalyn Echikunwoke, and Dedee Pfeiffer.

Director Tao Ruspoli’s Statement

FIX is inspired by a true story: My brother, a very charming, larger than life character in real life, was struggling with drug addiction. The law caught up with him, and he was offered a deal by the judge: if he didn’t check himself into rehab in 10 days, he would be sent to prison for 3 years. On the 8th day, he was arrested again, for something else. His lawyer called me, while I was working on a documentary in San Francisco, and said, “If someone doesn’t bail him out of jail and get him to rehab by 8pm tomorrow, he is going to prison for 3 years.” So I drove overnight to bail him out and soon found out that the rehab wouldn’t accept him without a nonrefundable $5000 deposit. Since we didn’t have the money, the day turned into a race to get the funds before the 8 o’clock deadline.

Years later, my wife Olivia and I had the idea of turning this premise into my first narrative feature film. I knew it was time for me to move into scripted features and I was also dying to work with Olivia, who was developing into an incredible actress. We always joked that while we had gotten married after only knowing each other for 6 months, the real commitment (and risk) it takes to make a film together required 4 years.

Given my background in guerilla style documentary filmmaking, I wanted to use the language I had developed in that medium and apply it to my first narrative project. In that way, I hoped to get the best of both worlds: the immediacy and realism of documentary and the structure and story arc of scripted, fictional work. Given advances in digital media, I was also excited by the fact that we could do this without sacrificing my love of photography and “cinematic” imagery.

The process and result turned out to be more gratifying than I ever could have imagined. Seeing Shawn bring his own vision and spirit to the Leo character was delightful. Shooting was adventurous and fun, and bringing the film to festivals around the world and seeing how the film touched people from so many walks of life was more than I ever dreamed of. I am excited for the film to now reach an even larger audience with this fall’s release.

FIX stars Shawn Andrews and Olivia Wilde.

Entering the Contest

• Fill out the form and upload your video clip
• We want your video to show us what YOUR fix is – tell us about the one thing that you can’t live without, in a creative, fun and compelling way. Videos should be no longer than 5 minutes long.
• Director Tao Ruspoli will choose the top 5 semi-finalist videos based on creativity, ingenuity, and by how much he is entertained/moved/humored by your FIX.
• The semi-finalists will be notified by phone
• Semi-finalist videos will be uploaded to viral video channels – videos will place 1st, 2nd and 3rd by total number of views

1st Place:

• 2 round-trip airfare tickets to the New York City premier of FIX, November 14th, 2009
• 2 nights hotel stay in New York City
• Red-carpet appearance and photo opportunity with Actor Olivia Wilde and Director Tao Ruspoli
• A digital camera or iPod
• Official autographed copy of the script from the cast
• Official autographed FIX memorabilia

2nd Place:

• A digital camera
• Official autographed copy of the script from the cast
• Official autographed FIX memorabilia

3rd Place:

• A digital camera
• Official autographed FIX memorabilia

To enter contest, click this link. Good luck!

FIX’s homepage: http://fixthemovie.com/

Dramatic actors get all the attention for taking risky roles. A guy puts on a dress or a girl wears a prosthetic nose and somehow it’s instant Oscar nomination. But what Kevin Farley did as leading man in An American Carol showed more daring than all the cross dressers and accent deliverers combined; he dared to spoof director Michael Moore in a satirical look at Moore, Hollywood and America’s politically correct culture.

LAs The Place Daily TV Interview with Kevin

An American Carol

Farley’s warmth and charisma prevents An American Carol from ever coming off as mean spirited. He removes the soapbox as a potential set piece by never taking himself too seriously while portraying Moore’s cinematic doppelganger, “Michael Malone”. What’s striking about Farley is that he always seems at ease in interviews or even when confronted by wandering paparazzi. Perhaps it is this quality of Farley the man that speaks to Farley the actor’s ability to perform without pretense.

From getting slapped in succession by General George S. Patton, President John F. Kennedy, and Bill O’Reilly or firing at ACLU zombies that are attacking a courthouse, Farley delivers an organically hilarious performance. He holds his own while acting with a cast of Hollywood heavyweights like Kelsey Grammer, Jon Voight, Dennis Hopper, James Woods and Leslie Nielsen.

Hollywood & Wine

Farley is surrounded by family and long time friends in his writing and directorial debut, Hollywood & Wine. Joining him in writing the film were his brother John Farley, sister in law Jennifer Farley (as Jennifer Herron) and Matt Berman. Berman also joined as co-director on the project, which stars SNL’s Chris Kattan.

John Farley, Kevin Farley

Starring in the film is Nicky Whelan, the fresh-faced Australian import known for her work as Pepper Steiger on the television drama Neighbours. She appears poised for a sensual takeover of American audiences as Whelan’s undeniably stunning appearance is matched only by an affable and inviting charm.

Whelan plays Diane Blaine, an aspiring actress who can’t land a role because her face is “Too Jamie Stephens”; a Britney Spears/Lindsey Lohan type that has fallen on hard times. When her boyfriend (played by Chris Kattan) becomes indebted to a mobster, Whelan’s Blaine must play the only role ever really meant for her; pretending to be Jamie Stephens as she has dinner with the crush-struck mobster. The film also stars Norm MacDonald, Chazz Palminteri, David Spade, Horatio Sanz, Chris Parnell, Pamela Anderson, Vivica Fox and includes an appearance from Farley himself.

Back in the Saddle

Farley has now turned his attention to starring in Back in the Saddle. A devout fan of the film Blazing Saddles, Farley wrote Back in the Saddle as an homage to the Mel Brooks classic. Back in the Saddle (a western comedy) is the story of a train-robbing cowboy who tries to go straight. He retires to the town of Tumbleweed to live his life happily ever after. Unfortunately, rumors of an impending railroad coming to town have the jealous sheriff and ambitious mayor of Tumbleweed grabbing for gold and looking to neutralize any opposition…to their dismay, our hero comes out of retirement to ride again. “We want to shoot in Wyoming because people care about real characters, and I wanted the locations to be as real as the characters on screen,” said Farley.

American Regal

He’s also partnered with Fay Byrd to develop a clothing line that caters to bigger men. Farley and Byrd are tweeting the progress of American Regal on Twitter at www.twitter.com/americanregalby. Kevin also updates his fans through his personal page, http://twitter.com/kevfarls.

More About Kevin

At first, Farley resisted the call of comedy. Growing up in a family that used humor to deal with life, it was fate that he’d end up sharing that laughter with the world. Once he graduated from Marquette University with a degree in business, he began work for his father’s asphalt company, Scotch Oil. While that road may have been paved by good intentions his love for making people laugh grew too strong to ignore. He would get off work and jump on stage at the local comedy club. Farley studied at the famed Second City in Chicago, and would spend time watching his brother Chris Farley and cast create comedy for Saturday Night Live, which was a tremendous education, before moving to Los Angeles and landing a role in Adam Sandler’s The Waterboy, and never looked back.

Chris Farley and Kevin Farley clown around as kids.

His breakthrough role came as boy band member Doug Linus in the MTV parody 2gether: The Series. The role was distinctly different from anything that Farley had done and attracted high praise from many reviewers.

Farley’s roles include films such as Joe Dirt, Beverly Hills Ninja, The Third Wheel and Dickie Roberts: Former Child Star. He lent his voice to Eight Crazy Nights and has had guest appearances on programs like That ’70s Show, 3rd Rock from the Sun, Just Shoot Me and Curb Your Enthusiasm.

Many thanks to the beautiful $35 million dollar refurbished LA landmark Hotel Shangri La for hosting our interview with Kevin Farley.

www.shangrila-hotel.com
1301 Ocean Ave.
Santa Monica, CA 90401
(310) 394-2791

Whether you get pampered on someone else’s dime and your extravagant lifestyle includes luxury cars, designer handbags and expensive jewelry, or you’re tapping out your resources to do whatever it takes to maintain the image, you could be just the girl they are looking for!  In this new reality show, it’s all about you and your glamorous lifestyle.

The Good Life show is searching for the most outrageous, over-the top ladies who are living large! Maybe you were born with a silver spoon or maybe everyone only thinks you were—either way, you’re A-List, baby! And, it’s time everybody knows.

If you answer yes to any of these questions, you are on your way to being the next star of The Good Life:

•    Is your closet full of designer clothes and shoes that would make Imelda cry?

•    Do you carry your teacup Maltese as an accessory?

•    Do you live in an amazing home with maids, a chef, a personal assistant or a driver?

•    Is your job an intense social calendar and your hobby shopping at Gucci?

•    Are you on the cutting edge of every trend and don’t miss a beat when it comes to Hollywood gossip?

•    Do you live a lifestyle everyone envies?

Your parents or your boyfriend may think you’re over the top- but The Good Life show gets it!  You don’t shop sales, you don’t let rules get in the way of a good time and you love champagne! Your friends want to be you and you want to be famous. And The Good Life wants to help. Attitude is everything–show the world what its like to be you!

For more information, contact: Rachel@thegoodlifecasting.com
818.325.6911

To apply for the show in Los Angeles or Orange County,  go to: www.thegoodlifecasting.com

To be considered, you must be over 21 years of age.

Hollywood Celebrates Earth Day

Setting the Standard for Green

Distinctive Assets made special effort to provide celebs with an amazing array of products and services that assist people in becoming “green”. Now more than ever there is a focus on lowering the our carbon footprints and saving earth for future generations, and the products we use on daily basis have a huge impact.

Celebrities are the trendsetters and eco-friendly stars set the bar for going green. Among the eco-conscious celebrities that graced the “Earth Day in Hollywood” suite were Jeremy Piven, Heather Graham, Justin Timberlake, Bill Maher, Adrian Grenier, Jake Gyllenhaal, Pink, Leonardo DiCaprio, Melissa Etheridge, Sheryl Crow, Eva Longoria, Tobey Maguire, Drew Barrymore, Ellen DeGeneres, Kathy Griffin, Tyra Banks, Bette Midler, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Holly Robinson-Peete, Sting, Rosario Dawson, Tina Fey, Alicia Silverstone, Ricky Martin and Courteney Cox.

Best, Brightest and Most Green

Curious about the products and services that helped celebrities see green? A listing of these innovative companies that contribut to health of our planet and the “Earth Day In Hollwood” gift baskets is below.

520-nm (www.520-nm.com)

A Distinctive Style Magazine (www.adistinctivestyle.com)

Agreenday.org (www.agreenday.org)

Arise Magazine (www.arisemagazine.com)

Awaken Savor® (www.awakensavor.com)

BAMBOOT Aesthetics (www.bambootm.com)

Bardessono (www.bardessono.com)

Biotta (www.biottajuices.com)

Boku International (www.bokusuperfood.com)

BrytonPick (www.brytonpick.com)

CHANGE a Starter Kit (www.starterkitforchange.com)

CoolCorC Cup Sleeves (www.coolcorc.com)

Crofters Organic (www.croftersorganic.com)

Davanee (www.davanee.com)

DoshaCare (www.doshacare.com)

DuMi (www.du-mi.com)

EarthLust (www.earthlust.com)

eco-panda (www.eco-panda.com)

Eminence Organic Skin Care (www.eminenceorganics.com)

Eufora (www.eufora.net)

For the Earth Corporation (www.fortheearthCorp.com)

Freshology (www.freshology.com)

Gamila (www.gamilasecret.com)

Gertie Gear (www.gertiegear.com)

Green SUV (www.greensuv.com)

Harrisons’ Pet Products (www.harrisonspetproducts.com)

Hippie Rehab (www.hippierehab.com)

InnovAsians Limited (www.innovasians.com)

JAIDYE (www.jai-dye.com)

JR Watkins (www.jrwatkins.com)

Kids Konserve (www.kidskonserve.com)

Leaves (www.eosgame.com)

Lindblad Expeditions (www.expeditions.com)

Lloyd London (www.myspace.com/lloydlondon)

Lollypop (www.lollypoppublishing.co.uk)

Method (www.methodhome.com)

myEARTH360 (www.myearth360.com)

Organic Diva (www.organicdivas.com)

Precious Earth Jewelry (www.preciousearthjewelry.com)

PUR (www.purwater.com)

Pureology (www.pureology.com)

Rain Organics Vodka (www.greatvodka.com)

Range of Motion (www.rangeofmotionfitness.net)

Revel Seven (www.revelseven.com)

Rojeti (www.rojeti.com)

Royal Paws (www.royalpaws.com)

Salon TRUE (www.salontrue.com)

Singer’s Saving Grace (www.herbsetc.com)

Solatube International (www.solatube.com)

SolMaté (www.drinksolmate.com)

sukispa (www.sukipure.com)

Sustainable Youth (www.sustainableyouthproducts.com)

Tetra Pak (www.tetrapak.com)

The Americana at Brand (www.americanaatbrand.com)

True Natural Taste (www.truenaturaltaste.com)

True Blue Pet Products (www.truebluepets.com)

Vita-Mix (www.vitamix.com)

World’s Best Cat Litter (www.worldsbestcatlitter.com)

The Unhealthy Truth
How Our Food Is Making Us Sick and What We Can Do About It (www.robynobrien.com)

No Impact Man by Colin Beavan (www.noimpactman.com)

About Distinctive Assetes

(www.distinctiveassets.com) is the mastermind events company behind some of the most sought-after gifting swag suites. At the forefront of gifting lounges, Distinctive Assets has created memorable events at most major awards shows such as the GRAMMY®s, American Music Awards, Kids’ Choice Awards, MTV Movie Awards, Latin GRAMMY®s, Academy of Country Music Awards, and the HBO Comedy Festival.

Recently, Cynthia McFadden interviewed American Idol judge Paula Abdul on ABC News “Nightline”. In the wide-ranging interview, the award-winning singer discussed her journey to stardom, rumored prescription drug and alcohol use, her tempestuous relationship with Simon Cowell, her thoughts on adding fourth judge Kara DioGuardi, and other projects she has currently in the works. Here are some excerps, courtesy of ABC News Nightline…

On the Addition of a Fourth Judge on the Show:

Cynthia McFadden:  So were you consulted before they added the 4th judge?

Paula Abdul:  Well, yes, you want to know when?  I just got out of this hospital this past August. I had three days to pack and go on the road. I found out on the way to the airport.

CM:  To this season’s auditions?

PA:  to go to the first city.

CM:  Well I wouldn’t say that’s consultation.

PA:  that’s being informed. Nor was Randy. Randy found out hours before me and…

CM:  Were you mad?

PA:  I thought that respectfully all of us as a group, maybe we could even figure this out together and I was surprised because Simon has always been against the 4th, we’ve had guest judges come in before and he banned that from happening anymore. 

Cynthia McFadden with Paula Abdul

On Kara DioGuardi:

 

PA:  Well, I started her success. And I’m proud of it. Happy of it. I moved a stranger from NY, told her to give 2 week’s notice to billboard magazine, and moved a stranger into my home in LA…

CM:  So how is it now? Do you sense that at least some of the audience would love to have the 2 ladies fighting?

PA:  I actually think that Simon got mad that we are friends and that I actually knew her and that her humble beginning began sleeping in my guest bedroom and I just believed in her.

CM:  No tension between the two of you?

PA:  None, seriously.

On Simon Cowell:

PA:   He’s a bully, he’s a masterful bully.

CM:  So of all the egos is Simon’s the biggest?

PA:  Without a doubt without a doubt.  And I go the first day I went to work on season one I quit 7 times. 7 times.

CM:  Why?

PA:  Because I couldn’t believe that that someone was actually getting away with crushing fragile kids. This happens behind your back, [not] in front of your face.
I couldn’t take the pain that I saw and I think being an artist who has had success it’s very vulnerable when you are the talent.  And when someone attacks you with criticism that isn’t constructive sometimes it’s hard to take.

On her Idol Contract:

CM:  So is your contract up?

PA:  Cynthia, this is my last season under contract.

CM:  Do you think she [Kara] will replace you?

PA:  I don’t think anyone [can].  First of all Kara says “I could never replace you”. And I said I whenever there is change it’s not about replacing anybody it’s about possibly moving on.

CM:  So do you want to stay on the show or not?

PA:  I love the show, I do. I love what I do on the show and I’m loving it more this season than ever. It’s taken me a while to get comfortable in my own skin with the show.

On Rumored Prescription Drug and Alcohol Use:

CM:  So let me just ask you the question straight up. Absolutely crystal clear you have not abused prescription drugs?

PA:  Never.

CM:  You have not consumed alcohol before going on the air?

PA: Never. I’ve never been drunk in my life I don’t like it. It’s not my thing. Spending money on clothes and shoes that’s another thing.

On her Chronic Pain from a Neck Injury Suffered in 1992:

CM:  There’d be no dishonor in taking pain medication if you’re in pain. 
Vicadin, Oxycontin, those drugs?

PA:  No, no. no no no. Will not take those drugs. And you can check my medical records there is nothing like that. I was never on Oxycontin or Vicadin or anything like that. I was on nerve medicine and anti-inflammatories.

CM:  But on your reality show [Hey Paula] there are so many times where you don’t look like you are really there. You’re eyes are closing, you’re head is falling back…

PA:  Because I’m falling asleep and a camera is on me. I don’t have anything that is shameful. I don’t have anything to be embarrassed about that was NOT accurate documentation of my life.

Excerpts courtesy of ABC News “Nightline”.

“Nightline” is anchored by Cynthia McFadden, Terry Moran, and Martin Bashir. James Goldston is the executive producer. “Nightline airs at 11:35 p.m. (ET/PT) weeknights on the ABC Television Network.

Kathy Griffin, host of Bravo's A List Awards

This tribute to all things “celebrity” was kicked off by Distinctive Assets‘ backstage gift lounge, where the unique band of presenters, performers and winners were treated to their own best of the best. Held at the historic Orpheum Theatre in downtown Los Angeles, the A-List Awards paid homage to our ever-changing modern culture and leading creative minds. Also featured was a tribute to the late actress and AIDS activist Natasha Richardson of “The Parent Trap” fame.

A Constellation of Stars

The red carpet welcomed celebs from all areas of entertainment including reality television, music, drama, and comedy. The Real Housewives from the three of Bravo’s location shows (Orange County, Atlanta and New York City) were on hand to raise $100,000 for charity and celebrities from Gwen Stefani and Jenny McCarthy to Neil Patrick Harris and Chelsea Handler pumped up energy for the evening. The A List Awards airs April 15, 2009 on Bravo TV.

The Newest and Coolest Gifts

Distinctive Assets’ backstage gift lounge showered celebrities with latest and greatest products, as well as a personal décor touch with beautiful flower arrangements by Tic Tock Flowers. Among the unique gifts given to the VIPs were eco-friendly water-powered clocks, new-fangled exercise equipment, fashionable rain gear, performance sunglasses, portion-conscious dishware, high heel baby footwear, premium skincare and much more. These innovative products made the A-List Awards gifting lounge a happy, relaxed moment for everyone involved in the show.

Lash Fary with his creation, Slimware.

Slimware (www.slimware.com) has an easy way for you to control your portions. No more weighing, no more wondering how much you should be eating. Each plate design has interesting patterns that culminate in a space for a particular food type (three lilly pads, for example, show you where exactly your food goes). The accompanying guide illustrates what to put in each of the three spaces (a protein, carbohydrate and vegetable). An easy and foolproof way to lose weight. This is the brainchild of Lash Fary, founder of Distinctive Assets. Way to create a winner, Lash! This successful product is selling out on QVC as well.

Janet Harris, TV Personality, author and owner of Skin Rejuvination Center in Beverly Hills.

Janet Harris (www.janet.us) knows skin. The celebrity skincare expert on television shows such as Dr. Phil® and The Rachel Ray Show® offers her own line of amazing products, Janet’s Skin Care, specializing in gentle, effective care for your skin. The products feature the well-researched Kine-pHirm that exfoliates and keeps skin looking fresh and young. Janet has recently been featured in Robin McGraw’s new top selling book “What’s Age Got to Do With It” and co-authored the chapters on skin care. She is the owner of the all-encompassing medispa, Skin Rejuvination Center, the best in Beverly Hills.

Mark Bedol and daughter Laura Bedol with their water-powered clock; Bedol What's Next Store in Claremont.

The Burn Machine- the secret weapon of MMA fighters!

 The Burn Machine (www.theburnmachine.com) is a hand-held piece of strength training equipment that builds muscle, increases core strength, aids flexibility and burns calories. Their patented asymetrical barbell system is heavy enough to work your muscles with more traditional moves, or crank it up in what looks like bicycling with your hands, blasting calories. Your core muscles stay engaged through most of your moves, working your abdominals.

Heelarious (www.heelarious.com) are your baby’s first attempt at grown-up heels. Completely soft, these adorable baby shoes are meant to look like heels – without the discomfort. Your little fashion plate will be tres chic in the line that includes look-alike cowboy boots and heels in patterns such as leopard and zebra, as well as girlie colors like soft pink, hot pink and hello baby red.

Rooly (www.rooly.com) rolls out performance sunglasses and goggles for active individuals. Their diverse line of eyewear is designed for both the world class athlete and those just on the red carpet of life. These fashionable eyepieces are built to excel in all conditions, providing value, comfort, function and most of all, quality

Däv (www.davrain.com) offers fashion-forward rain boots, umbrellas, rain gear and purses. Filling a need for trendy rain gear, Däv has comfortable, functional, hip, and sophisticated apparel. The brainchild of creator Dave Sengstaken, president of Style West, Däv offers collections with hand-created original colorful prints on coordinated handbags, umbrellas, rainboots, and other inclement weather accessories. Take a walk on the fashionably wet side.

Spongelle

Spongelle (www.spongelle.com) is a quick and easy way to bathe and shower. These handy sponges are infused with gentle, silken gel that feature scents such as French Lavender, Papaya Sandalwood, and Peony, in both regular and travel sizes. No more having to use both a sponge and body wash separately. The premium-formula ingredients moisturize, protect and rejuvenate your skin, while the texture of the sponge provides light exfoliation.

Prana SpaCeuticals (www.pranaspaceuticals.com) brings pure, biologically active products to salons and spas. The professional line is tailored to help even the most aggressive skin problems, and offers botanically-based skincare perfected through science.

H2O is earth-friendly natural spring water in an award-winning renewable, aseptic package. This unique packaging helps spare landfills those empty plastic bottles, which annually add up to 38 billion containers. H2O provides safe drinking water while simultaneously minimizes the consumer’s impact on the planet.

Tic Toc Flowers added to the dazzle.

Each of the A-listers in attendance also received a special gift basket with fabulous goods from from DuMi, Carita Paris, Decleor, DEX New York, Forever Lily, Fresh Face, Glass Hair Design, Kids Konserve, Monroe Hair Care, Paperbax, Royal Paws, Sassy Soles, Setoso EyeBalm, Shoshana Bean, The SOI Company and Utta Body Sculpture.

Behind the Glam

Distinctive Assets (www.distinctiveassets.com) recently celebrated its 10th year of creating incredible celebrity swag suites. Lash Fary, the founder of Distinctive Assets, has put his talents to good use behind the scenes at gifting suites at most major award shows. At the forefront of gifting lounges, Distinctive Assets has worked magic at events such as the GRAMMY®s, American Music Awards, Kids’ Choice Awards, MTV Movie Awards, Latin GRAMMY®s, Academy of Country Music Awards, HBO Comedy Festival and many other high-profile events.

Blush Winner Nolan Robert

One of ten competitors chosen from thousands across the country, Hawaiian native, Nolan “Makaawaawa” Robert was the top winner of Lifetime’s new reality competition series, “Blush: The Search for the Next Great Makeup Artist.” Nolan took home $100,000, inked a deal with Max Factor and will be the featured make-up artist for the cover of an upcoming InStyle magazine photo shoot. But Nolan is no stranger to Hollywood, having created ‘looks’ for Paris Hilton, Nicole Richie, Liv Tyler, Carmen Electra, and America’s Next Top Model winners Yoanna House, Eva Pigford, and Jaslene Gonzales, to name a few. And now, Nolan is ready to share his tricks of the trade.

Beauty on a Budget – Go From ‘Frump To Fab’ in Minutes!

“In this economy, everyone is watching their dollars but it really doesn’t cost a lot to be gorgeous and it doesn’t take a lot of time!” says Nolan. “I use a lot of Max Factor products which are high quality and not very expensive.”

For under $50, you can go from ‘frump to fab’ in 10 minutes and Nolan Robert will tell you how. “Use a tinted moisturizer and sheer pressed powder for the face; a neutral colored eyeshadow duo, mascara and a soft powder eyeliner for the eyes; lip stain or gloss for the lips; finish your face with a dust of bronzer (optional) and off you go! You are looking gorgeous in less than 10 minutes — on a budget!”

The Search for the Next Great Makeup Artist Winner Nolan Robert's Techniques

Nolan Shares His Beauty Tips!

LA’s the Place: What is the biggest mistake women make when applying makeup?

Nolan Robert: Every woman should feel confident and look their best every day and a really big mistake women make is when they apply make-up in the car! That’s a big mistake for many reasons! Remember: less is more so pick your best feature i.e. lips, eyes, etc., and apply your boldest color there. Make that your focal point because 20 coats of mascara is not pretty.

LATP: What products do you recommend for a quick evening look?

NR: Always use a good lash plumper to create voluptuous lashes and add a bold color on your eyes or lips. Find eye shadows that compliment your eye color i.e. green eyes really ‘pop’ when you use an orange or red hue. Brown eyes ‘pop’ with a blue or green hue. These colors don’t have to be true to shade but the must have an undertone of those colors. Lips need a bold color that is powerful yet feminine. Shades like a bright pink or a bright red are perfect for the evening. A great blush color is a plus as well.

LATP: How does daytime make-up differ from evening make-up?

NR: The difference between day and evening make-up is up to one’s own personality and style. We tend to wear less makeup during the day because, in the sunlight, makeup can look heavy and the colors can seem a bit dramatic. The evening allows you to play up your style by adding bolder shades and more coverage to your look without feeling that everyone is staring at you or that you are on your way to a Halloween party!

LATP: Can you go from daytime make-up to evening make-up in less than 10 minutes?

NR: Absolutely! Apply a bold color to your eyes or lips, a dark eyeliner or lip liner, a blush color and MORE mascara – but be careful with the mascara! This transition is very easy and very fast.

LATP: Do men wear make-up?

LATP: What products do you recommend for men?

NR: Look for products that work for your particular skin-type. Cream concealers are best for men and a loose, translucent powder is recommended to set. Clear mascara is a great product for men to enhance their lashes but not over do them. A powder shadow in brown also makes a great eyeliner and, if you apply the shadow to the lash line, your eyes will pop!”

For more ‘insider’ tips, check out Nolan at: www.xnolanrobertx.com or visit Nolan at www.myspace.com/nolanrobert

Kids' Choice Awards Gift Suite - Fun Activities

Say the Magic Word

Platinum Publicity cast a spell of its own when it arranged for the Celebrity Lounge to be held at the world famous Magic Castle, a private clubhouse in the Hollywood Hills usually reserved for a select few. Originally built in 1909, the Magic Castle’s artifact-filled themed and maze-like interior provided the perfect setting for the unique gift suite. The enchantment was evident from the beginning, where guests had to whisper a secret password to cause a bookcase to open, allowing entry into the gift lounge area.

Platinum Publicity's Melanie Segal and Chris Palzis

Fun for Guests and Food for the Needy

A-List guest and VIPs were treated to many surprises and activities, from decorating their own plates and workin’ it with Dance Dance Revolution, to artsy fun such as caricatures and airbrush tattoos. Grammy Award winning pianist/composer Charles Segal entertained guests while Mani Pedi Cutie worked magic on both little and big nails.

Christine Lakin, "Race to Witch Mountain" Shows off a Decorated Plate

Stouffers went over and above by donating 1,000 meals to Los Angeles’ needy in honor of each celebrity that attended the lounge. Stouffer’s intentions are to “Feed LA for the Day” and provide funds to serve up approximately 70,000 meals. Feeding America and the LA Food Bank were on-hand at the event as beneficiaries of the bewitching gift lounge, and additional funds were raised through the auctioning of a celebrity-signed arcade game from Dream Arcades. The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank (www.LaFoodbank.org) is a nonprofit charitable organization that has served the disadvantaged since 1973. They partnered with Feeding America, the nation’s largest non-governmental, domestic hunger relief organization, to provide food to those in need.

"Average Joe" Marc Marcuse (l) with Jeffrey Sebelia of" Project Runway" (r)

The Gifts Sparkled Plenty

This unique suite was made possible by the vendors that gifted celebrities and created a marvelous day for all guests. Some of the vendors who supported the suite included those below.

Brett White of Stouffers Helped Make the Day Possible

Stouffers (www.stouffers.com). Not only did Stouffers have their own room where guests could decorate their own plates, but they also arranged for feed LA’s needy. Stouffers is one of the best-known brands in the U.S., having started life as a mere coffee shop in 1922. Becoming synonymous with tasty and easy frozen meals over the years, Stouffer’s mission is to bring families together over the dinner table by allowing them to spend less time cooking and more time with each other.

Laurie Parent of Polaroid Takes a Moment

Polaroid (www.Polaroid.com). Creating lasting memories all around the world, Polaroid focuses on fun, easy-to-use, and family-friendly products that capture life’s moments. Best known for their instant photography cameras, where people would huddle around to watch their picture develop, Polaroid has expanded its line to digital cameras, underwater cameras, digital photo frames, camcorders and LCD TVs.

Alexis Ramirez (l) and Melissa Medina (r) Show Off Little Stride Rites

Stride Rite (www.StrideRite.com). Stride Rite is the leader in quality children’s shoes and sandals. Their expertise is little feet, shoe comfort and foot growth. Stride Rite uses the latest technology and the finest materials to ensure that their shoes fit right, and are engineered specifically for growing feet. Each pair of shoes is subjected to over 100 tests, so you can be assured of getting the proper footwear for your little one.

Iris Belson of Crumbs Bake Shop Tempts with Delectable Goodies

Crumbs Bake Shop (www.Crumbs.com). Providing deliciously simple treats, Crumbs Bake Shop believes in appreciating the little tasty things in life. Cupcakes are their staple, and they offer a whopping 50 kinds of these happiness-inducing treats. Using only the freshest ingredients, Crumbs also bakes delectable cookies, brownies, muffins, cakes and scones.

Seth McFarland chats to MTV

Guilty Pleasures (www.KheperGames.com). If you are willing to admit how much you know about pop culture, Guilty Pleasures is the game for you. With categories including Books & Tabloids, Movies, Reality TV, and TV Sitcoms & Dramas, you can strut your knowledge of allthings fluff – and fun. Guilty Pleasures can also be found at www.urbanoutfitters.com

 .

PAC Perfect Acne Control (www.PACperfectskin.com). Combat acne with this complete skincare system that is effective yet gentle on the skin. PAC’s three-step system calms skin while preventing breakouts, improves health and radiance, and is clinically proven to reduce acne.

Renee Olsted of “Secret Life of an American Girl” at PNY

PNY Technologies Inc. (www.pny.com). Solutions for every technological need, PNY products are found in most homes and offices. From flash cards, USB flash drives, motherboards, graphic cards, and memory upgrades, PNY leads the technological pack, with quality products sold in over 50 countries.

Mani Pedi Cutie Pampered Gift Suite Guests

Mani Pedi Cutie (www.manipedicutie.com). An upscale natural nail salon for women, men and children, Mani Pedi Cutie is a cool, eco-friendly place to pamper yourself. They use only non-toxic beauty supplies and offer manicure/pedicure and waving services for adults, as well as specialized treatments for pregnant women, toddlers and teens.

Fun and Exercise with Dance Dance Revolution

Dance Dance Revolution. Dance Dance Revolution is the interactive game that tempts its users off the couch and onto the dance floor with its high-energy music for a healthy, energetic and fun fitness workout. In this premiere dancing game, and all of its differing versions, you are challenged to match you dance steps with the flashing arrows on the screen and keeping up with the beat while exhibiting your very own flare. www.ddrgame.com

Nettiescrub (www. nettiescrub.com). Quality, natural ingredients are the cornerstone of Nettiescrub products. With ingredients such as rich shea butter, natural plant extracts and powerful antioxidants, Nettiscrub differentiates itself from the pack with a forward-thinking distinctive design of finely-tuned skin care products. Nettiescrub formulas are only sold in sustainable and reusable packaging.

Flip Video (www.flipvideo.com). People have flipped for Flip Video. Billed as the fastest, smallest and thinnest camcorders on the market, the simple little devices have captured the hearts of the public. These cell phone-sized cameras are easy-to-use, inexpensive and best of all, techno-dummy-proof.

Blockbuster (www.blockbuster.com). No longer just video rentals in your neighborhood store, Blockbuster has expanded to offer downloadable rentals, service to your mail box, as well as video game rentals.

Richard Solo Electronics (www.RichardSolo.com). Everything you need to make your life easier – in one click. iPhone/iPod/Blackberry accessories, baby monitors, watches, pogo jumpers, radios, and grooming items are all available from this service-oriented gadget retailer.

5 Gum Sports Cool Packaging

Wrigley’s 5 Gum (www.5Gum.com). A hip-looking sugar-free gum, “5″ probably is the coolest package that gum comes in. Long-lasting flavors include are Rain, Cobalt and Flare.

Crayola (www.Crayola.com). There is no need for an introduction with Crayola – they have been providing color for over 100 years. Kids have held a Crayola product in their hands for generations, and the company still adheres to its original creed: color is king. Focusing on creativity, learning and fun, Crayola now spans the world and leads the way for kids to develop artistically with an amazing array of new and innovative products.

Charles Segal Entertained

Charles Segal (www.CharlesSegal.com). Charles Segal provided musical entertainment at the magical suite. Charles is an award-winning, world-renowned pianist and composer who has composed more than 2,000 songs and performed on over 200 albums. The classically-trained Segal blends feelings with musical notes to create soul-stirring melodies. His talents include musical varieties from romantic melodies and upbeat jazz to children’s music.

GameDoc (www.GameDoc.com). Pinball, video games, pool tables, and parts. An official distributor of Rockola, NSM, and Wurlitzer Jukeboxes, The Game Doc offers sales, service and rentals.

Lipsmackers (www.lipsmackers.com). Colorful, good-smelling and fun, Bonne Bell Lipsmackers are available in tasty well-recognized variations such as Skittles, Dr. Pepper, Starburst, and even M&Ms.

Yelena Is a Picture of Fun at Classic Photo Booth

Classic Photo Booth (www.classicphotobooth.net). Move the fun of the photo booth to your event with a photo booth rental. Vintage and branded photo booths are perfect for parties, weddings, and meetings. This one was branded for Platinum Publicity, their charity sponsor Stouffer’s and of course green slime in honor of the Kid’s Choice Awards.

Barts Carts (www.bartscarts.com). Delicious popcorn, tasty snow cones, cool ice cream and frothy lemonade have to come from somewhere: Barts Carts. They have been providing carnival supplies rental, carnival food, concessions and catering in Los Angeles and all California since 1990.

Young Rockers Show off Capelta Boots

Capelta Boots by Monique is classic glamour and vintage looks at its finest. Capelta’s unique approach to footwear highlights bold, original and sexy designs. The handcrafted Brazilian boots blend eco-friendly materials with vintage flair, creating recycled appeal with an exotic touch. Detached decorative emblems, interesting textures, and a variety of fabrics are blended to create their sought-after footwear designs.

Scholastic Books for Home and School

Scholastic Books (www.scholastic.com). Scholastic has been recognized by parents and teachers for over 85 years. They create quality children’s educational materials for both school and home including books, magazines, television programming, technology-based products, videos and toys.

Los Angeles Regional Food Bank Benefited from the Day

Photography by Jane Emery

Winners from the 22nd annual Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards are as follows:

Favorite Movie: “High School Musical 3: Senior Year”

Favorite Movie Actor: Will Smith, “Hancock”

Favorite Movie Actress: Vanessa Hudgens, “High School Musical 3: Senior Year”

Favorite Animated Movie: “Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa”

Favorite Voice from an Animated Movie: Jack Black, “Kung Fu Panda”

Favorite Song: Beyonce, “Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It)”

Favorite Male Singer: Jesse McCartney

Favorite Female Singer: Miley Cyrus

Favorite Music Group: Jonas Brothers

Favorite TV Show: “iCarly”

Favorite Reality Show: “American Idol”

Favorite TV Actress: Selena Gomez, “Wizards of Waverly”

Favorite TV Actor: Cole Sprouse, “The Suite Life of Zack and Cody”

Favorite Cartoon: “SpongeBob SquarePants”

Favorite Male Athlete: Peyton Manning

Favorite Female Athlete: Candace Parker.

Favorite Video Game: “Guitar Hero World Tour”

The Reel Recovery Film Series is one of the many fundraising events sponsored by Writers In Treatment (www.writersintreatment.org),

The eight classic films selected for the series include:

April 7:  “Permanent Midnight” with American novelist Jerry Stahl presenting and U.K. director Bernard Rose scheduled to attend.

April 14   “The Lost Weekend” (Won Academy Awards for Best Film, Best Director, Best Actor, and Best Screenplay)

April 21:  “Leaving Las Vegas” (Academy Award to Nicholas Cage for Best Actor. Nominated for Best Film, Best Director and Best Actress and Best Screenplay).

April 28:  “Sid and Nancy”

May 5:   “Days of Wine and Roses” (Won Academy Award for Best Song. Nominated for Best Actor (Jack Lemmon) and Best Actress).

May 12:  “Less Than Zero”

MAY 19:  “Barfly”

MAY 26:  “Ivan’s XTC”  Director Bernard Rose will present with special guests.

Directors, writers and cast members will be invited to speak before each film. Comedian Ritch Shydner, co-founder of Yuckaholics, actor Jack McGee and special guests will lead an open discussion with audience members following each screening. Celebrity guests Ben Stiller, Robert Downey Jr., and Danny Huston have been invited.

“This series isn’t just for addicts or alcoholics. It’s for anyone who has ever been impacted or just wants to learn more about the disease and its treatment in a less traditional and entertaining environment”, said co-founder Leonard Buschel. “We hope to raise both money and national awareness so that indigent writers can learn that there is free help available.

Founded in 2008 W.I.T has a volunteer advisory board of substance abuse counselors, therapists and psychologists who offer free counseling for their clients.
 
Attendees will be treated to live jazz preceding each screening and free popcorn all evening. Beverages courtesy of HINT water (drink water not sugar!), TeaZazz (sparkling tea), Peet’s Coffee from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Writers In Treatment has partnered with top tier rehabilitation facilities including the Betty Ford Center, Hazelden and Caron Treatment Centers so our writers will receive the highest quality care available in America.

For additional information about the film series or W.I.T, please contact:

Debbi Berlin
Berlin Media Services, llc
323-528-2352
Debbi@BerlinPublicRelations.com

REEL Recovery Film Series~2009″

REEL Recovery Film Series

April 07, 2009 7:00 p.m. through May 26, 2009 7:00 p.m.
 
The Silent Movie Theater
611 N. Fairfax St.
Los Angeles, CA 90036 [map it!]

Donation: $10.74
 
Info Line (818)762-0461
Website:  www.writersintreatmen.com
 
Contact:  Leonard Buschel
12059 Hoffman St. #201
Studio City, CA 91604

(818) 762-0461

Amber Smith from Sober House, actor Brandon Molale, Shar Jackson, Kathy Hilton

What’s In a Name?

A-listers were treated to sparkling Izze juices or Alize cocktails that were creatively named to coincide with some of this year’s Oscar nominees. The “Slumdog Sparkler,” “Revolutionary Rose,” and “The Curious Cordial of Benjamin Button” all were a refreshing hit.

Alize Natural Juice and Alcohol Beverage

Christine Devine and Melanie Segal with a child from Wednesday's Child adoption agency.

From supermodel Amber Smith of “Sober House” to Kathy Hilton of the famed Hilton clan, celebrities turned out to the receive fabulous goodies ranging from shoes to jackets and manicures. Leyla Milani of NBC’s “Deal or No Deal” enjoyed her MBT footwear, Shauna Sands Llamas brought family, and Jai Rodriquez of Bravo Network’s “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy” graciously stopped for photos.

FOX 11’s Christine Devine, whose “Wednesday’s Child” segment profiles foster children seeking loving families, brought with her a special child who received some pampering.

Charles Segal

Also on-hand at the fun-filled event was Charles Segal (Melanie’s Segal’s dad) with Hollywood Piano, who has amassed a formidable body of work, composing over 2,000 songs and performing on more than 200 albums. His talents as a jazz and commercial pianist and composer have lent themselves to a wide variety of tunes, from beloved children’s musicals to spirited jazz to soothing compositions to loving melodies (www.CharlesSegal.com).

The Gifting Gurus

Some of the vendors that gave useful and gorgeous gifts included:

Ada Handbags (www.adahandbags.com). Beautifully handcrafted from Argentina, Ada handbags are inspired by world travels that exude simplicity and elegance for every woman. Ada handbags maintain quality clean lines and sophistication that will get you noticed for your unique elegant style rather than flash.

MBT (www.swissmasaius.com). Unique footwear that activates leg and butt muscles while simply standing or walking. Their line consists of everything from athletic to professional shoes, sandals to boots. MBT considers themselves the “anti-shoe,” whose products not only firm and tone but also assist with posture and hip, leg or foot problems.

Leyla Milani Shows Off MBT Shoes

Corum Watches (www.lussori.com). Brilliant pieces with everything a man or woman needs to shine. Their fine timepieces are simple yet elegant. Corum has given the Gold Coin Watch, with a $20 gold coin encased inside it it, to every U.S. president since Nixon after their inauguration. Corum watches are worn by some of the most well-known names in entertainment the industry.

Beautiful Corum Timepieces

Blurb.com (www.blurb.com). Express your creativity or share a vacation by creating your own photography book online. Easy step-by-step guide will help you customize your personal layout for the look you want. Super easy to do and it is delivered right to your door. Makes for a wonderfully thoughtful gift or a great conversation starter on your coffee table created by you!

Sense (www.beautifulscience.com). Just like proper nutrition for the body, Sense works at the cellular level, getting to the source for great skin. Clinically proven to smooth fine lines and wrinkles with new patented Self-Preserving Technology free of chemical preservatives and parabens. It is naturally formulated to revitalize skin cells, leaving the skin rejuvenated and refreshed. You feed your body with proper nutrition; shouldn’t you do the same for your skin?

Jai Rodriquez with Sense

Sharpie (www.sharpie.com). Sharpie marker is getting a makeover. The classic smooth high-quality marker you know and love is now sleeker than ever in a stylish stainless steel design. The new marker is refillable and is perfect for any project you may have. Write out loud with the new stylish sharpie!

Kathy Hilton Wields Her Sharpie

Mobile Spa (www.mobilespalosangeles.com). Wouldn’t it be wonderful if after a hard day’s work you could come home and get a professional massage or facial? Or for a big event not worry about battling traffic just have your hair and nails primped and polished? The new Mobile Spa makes it possible, delivering professional high-quality spa services to your home, office, hotel, or filming locations. Now that’s a treat!

Hollywood Piano (www.hollywoodpiano.com). Keeping musicians’ prized instruments working at their premium is what Hollywood Piano does. Serving the largest names in entertainment since 1928, they provide professional tuning, repairs, sales and rentals. This family-owned business’s pianos are the top choice for motion picture, television, entertainment, and recording professionals.

Hollywood Piano Covers the Bases Musically

Makeup Mandy (www.makeupmandy.com). Want A-list treatment for a special event? Make up Mandy Eyelash Bar and Makeup Studio provides a taste of old Hollywood glamour in the modern era. Specializing in creating lavish lashes with eyelash extensions, Makeup Mandy is also a makeup expert working on the likes of Leighton Meester, Stacy Keebler, and Vivica A. Fox

Storm of London (www.stormwatches.com). Exclusive London-based brand features an amazing line of unique, stylish watches and accessories. Sold in more than 45 countries worldwide, the collection is available in Shanghai, Riga, Prague, Bratislava, Dubai, Melbourne and Delhi. From super cool to ultra-sophisticated timepieces, Storm has a watch for every personality.

Storm Watches - Sleek and Sophisticated

Bodi-Tox (www.bodi-tox.com). Bodi-Tox gifted their Carb Catchers Food Patches and detoxifying capsules to the interested crowd. Focusing on detoxification, Bodi-Tox’s products offer options with detox baths, body wraps and creams.

Plantronics (www.plantronics.com). The clear leader in headsets has units for all types of technology including mobile, computer, gaming, home and office. They gave celebs gift cards for their high-quality blue tooth headsets.

Shauna Sands Llamas and Family

About Platinum Publicity

Melanie Segal’s Platinum Publicity provides publicity, gifting suites, event planning, branding and strategic media planning for a variety of industries and clients. Their great gifting suites have included unique lounges prior to events such as the MTV Awards, Oscars, Emmy’s and the Kids’ Choice Awards. Please visit www.platinumpublicity.com for more information.

I just love how quantum physics and paranormal experience is extended one step beyond the imagination into the outer limits of medical science pulling it all together in a doable Fringe episode.

Mediums and psychics of varied sensitivity access information through the alpha and theta states of mind at will. It is also common to hear authors and artist speak of a zone in which information flows through them as they work.

In this (zone) altered state, however, the mind can take the form of that vision and becomes united with that internal reality. In episode 3 of the 1st season of Fringe titled, “The Ghost Network”, we watch the precognitive mind of Roy McComb, (played by guest star, Zak Orth) as he sees a violent gas attack on passengers on a bus. The FBI team then uses Roy’s visions to find the perpetrator responsible.

This particular episode flooded my mind dozens of memories of real to life case stories in the early days of experimentation in criminal investigations and psychic abilities in the 1980’s. Those were the good ole days when most of what we have in our reality today was science fiction. Imagine where the film industry will be in another 20 or 30 years; viewer interaction? Wow, imagine that!

The Luxurious SLS Hotel

Red carpet style came easy when the Secret Room revealed their pre-Oscar Style Gifting Lounge at the elegant SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills. The ultra-exclusive gift suite, benefiting the Downtown Womens Center of Los Angeles, was open to celebrities, select media and other VIPs. A-Listers received fabulous swag, viewed new products, mingled and sampled refreshments from Robert Mondavi Winery, Mona Vie, One Coconut Water, Sugar and Spice Cakes, Glee Gum, Pop Chips and Flamous Falafel. For fun, celeb guests took home unique 3D souvenir photos of themselves in goofy poses on fun backgrounds from Get Flipped. Celebrities Support Womens Center Despite their busy schedules, celebrities turned up at the gifting suite to help raise funds for the Downtown Womens Center (www.dwcweb.org), a day center and permanent supportive residence that provides 2,000 homeless and very low income women each year with basic resources such as housing, and health care. The DWC community allows homeless women to reclaim their sense of self and find goals lost in their daily struggle for survival.

Desperate Housewives' Zane Huett and sister Zoey at the Secret Room

Amazing Gifts The Secret Room put together a stylish gifting event with products and services that were both innovative and useful. From vacation packages to sandals, the variety was amazing. Secret Room Gifting Suite sponsors and vendors included: Ciel Spa (www.cielatsls.com) is conveniently located at the SLS Hotel and renders in-cabana hot-stone rubs, a variety of massages, facials, manicures, pedicures, mud wraps, as well as other spa services that rejuvenate and pamper clients. Zuzatz (www.zuzatz.com) fits the bill with a cool new way to expand your footwear choices. These comfortable thongs have changeable uppers that allow you to switch out the top straps to match your outfits. Choose from simple, elegant or all blinged-out.

Justin Guarini with Zuzatz - four differnt looks in one shoe.

Dr. John Joseph (www.drjohnjoseph.com) is a facial plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills. He specializes in aesthetic facial plastic surgery and offers youth-enhancing services including face lifts, laser skin tightening and dermal fillers. Exhale Spa (www.exhalespa.com) centers treatments around the mind/body connection, and their programs are designed with a holistic philosophy in mind. They provide top-of-the-line skin and body products to ensure visible results. Calypso Studios (www.calypsostudiosinc.com) also shared in providing re-usable suite gifting bags. They take design inspiration from mother nature and are dedicated to helping the planet. Their fun printed reusable totes and brilliant earthy jewelry add pizazz and style.

Calypso Studios Brought Color to the Lounge

Redhair Girl Designs (www.redhairgirldesigns.com) designs greeting cards and invitations. Owner and founder Jennifer Germain creates a greeting card line that supports breast cancer research, with 10% of the line’s proceeds going towards finding a cure. New Age Aesthetics (www.newageaesthetics.com) refines skin with a wide variety of treatments. Under the direction of Dr. Saul Berger, a plastic surgeon practicing in the Los Angeles area for over 18 years, the center offers a services ranging from peels, photo facials, and laser resurfacing, to microdermabasion, sclerotherapy and laser hair removal.

Dr. Saul Berger (rt) of New Age Aesthetics

Adonia Organics (www.athenaskincare.com) combines secrets of ancient Greece with science to create products that provide visible results. Their skincare line blends powerful plant oils to create a one-of-a-kind proprietary cream that helps recapture youth. All products use pure, organic ingredients. Big Feet PJs (www.bigfeetpjs.com) snuggle you in adult footed pajamas. Unique and whimsical, the pajamas are available in cozy fabrics like shirting flannel, cotton knit, micro-polar fleece, and wool cashemere. Sizes and styles for for men, women and juniors of nearly every shape.

I Love Money's Jason Rosell Likes Big Feet Pajamas - with Valerie Johnson, founder.

Reisentthel (www.reisenthel.com) furnished gift bags to suite visitors. They offer a huge variety of durable and functional reusable bags and storage options. Their eco-friendly products add a splash of color to everyday life. Livia Pure Skincare (www.liviaskincare.com) is all-natural skincare that is truly organic, raw, sulfate-free, paraben-free, vegan and eco-friendly. Products are carefully formulated to address many skin concerns, from aging to acne and hyperpigmentation.

Livia Pure Skincare Products Are Truly Orgainc and Eco-Friendly

She’s Crafty (www.shescraftydesigns.com) makes glass artwork wearable. Artist Toni Chirico creates vibrant, handmade fused glass jewelry and window art. From necklaces to earrings and belt buckles, no two pieces are like.

She's Crafty's Designer, Toni Chirico

Lucky Me Tee (www.luckymetee.com) by Demi Bella is for the mommy with style. A fun way to merge kids with fashion, these hip shirts boast “Mommy of 1,” “Mommy of 3″, etc. Long sleeves, tanks tops, baby tees, hoodies and tote bags all show that mommyhood can be fashionable. We-Vibe (www.we-vibe.com) is a new adult lifestyle product uniquely designed to be used during sex. Revolutionary, hands-free, strap-free and wireless, it is rechargeable and boasts powerful dual motors.

Anna Lynn McCord vibin' on We Vibe.

Among the hundreds of stars who took home the We-Vibe include 90210 star AnnaLynne McCord, MTV personality and My Space diva Tila Tequila, Playboy bunny and “most downloaded woman on the net”, Cindy Margolis, American Idol runner-up Justin Guarini, actor Mario Lopez, True Beauty reality-TV star Billy Jeffrey and Eva Marcille of The Young & Restless. The couple also made contact with Glamour Magazine and renowned sexologist Dr. Ava Cadell. Three (www.coolthree.com) lets customers combine their love of rock with their love of handbags for a unique and personal look. “Three” inspires passion and power, and encourages people to “rock the world” with positive energy. They offer a design competition with a scholarship prize and a “leadership” essay opportunity to inspire.

Cool Three Blends Handbags with Rock

Crocs (www.crocs.com) need no introduction. The lightweight, comfortable, slip-resistant and functional shoe has become a bona-fide phenomenon. Girls, boys, women and mens styles are available in an array of colors and designs. Raffles Hotels & Resorts (www.raffles.com) are unforgettable luxury hotels and resorts. Each unique property is distinguished by its own elegance and charm. Their lovely properties are located in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, the U.S., West Indies and Mexico.

MonaVie Always Hits the Spot

MonaVie (www.monavie.com) captures the essence of the amazing Acai berry in their MonaVie line of health products. Their premier formula delivers powerful antioxidants and phytonutrients to help fight free radicals and maintain overall health. Social Savvy Design Studio (www.social-savvy.com) designed The Secret Room gift suite invitations for the event. Social Savvy provides invitations for weddings, save the dates, baby announcements, birthdays, holidays, graduations and special events. Nuskin (www.nuskin.com) is committed to quality skin care that features only premium, wholesome ingredients. Focusing on “all of the good, none of the bad”, they develop innovative products that support skin and hair’s health and longevity. Products for face and body, and special treatments for different skin types and conditions. Real Purity (www.realpurity.com) is natural skincare derived from certified organic earth ingredients and wild-crafted herbs. This environmentally friendly, cruelty-free line uses no animal products, and offers body care, cosmetics, hair care, skincare, and aromatherapy items. DuMi (www.du-mi.com) gives you that sleek, smooth look…without the work. DuMi’s shapewear is specifically designed to work with today’s clothing’s varying rises, silhouettes and shapes while still being pretty.

Du-Mi Shapewear Flatters Every Body

And More: Your favorite four-legged friend will be spoiled with products from: Buddy Belts (www.buddy-belts.com), harnesses and collars that reduce stress on your beloved pet’s neck. Dogswell Organic Dog Treats (www.dogswell.com), natural, tasty snacks with added nutrients. Pet Top (www.pettop.com), a portable pet drinking solution that goes where you go. Lucca Bella (www.luccabella.com), doggie spa and boutique, where your pet can get pampered to the max. Care for your kids in style with: Seven Smooches (www.sevensmooches.com), hand-crafted, one-of-a-kind recycled children’s gifts and accessories. MetroMamma (www.metromamma.com), secure and chic baby carriers, bling clothing, accessories and bibs. L’oved Baby (www.lovedbaby.com), innovative baby products like the versatile nursing shawl, Arms Free Swaddler and cotton baby clothing. Treat your skin to luxury youth-enhancing products and quality cosmetics from: Simply Flawless (www.simplyflawlesso2.com) that helps wrinkles and lines vanish – before your eyes. Jan Marini Skin Research (www.janmarini.com), skincare management systems from Jan Marini that are always on the cutting-edge. PeaceKeeper Cause-Metics (www.iamapeacekeeper.com), who selflessly gives all of its after-tax distributable profits to women’s health advocacy and human rights issues. Angelina Skincare (www.angelinaorganicskincare.com), carefully researched fresh, organic skincare products that support the earth. Herban Essentials (www.herbanessentials.com), a variety of essential oils in a handy, portable toilette form. Let your hair down, put it up, or get your shine on: Samy Salon (www.samysalon.com), offers high-quality salon-inspired conditioners, stylers, and shampoos, designed to not leave build-up or residue. Bumpits (www.bumpits.com), an amazing way to create voluminous hairstyles quickly. Komenuka Bijin (www.komenuka-bijin.com) products rely on Hydrolyzed Rice Extract, a unique natural skin conditioning agent. HairMax Laser System (www.hairmax.com), helps reduce the stress of hair loss with the laser comb, clinically proven to promote hair growth. Fun handbags and leather goods rule with styles from: La Chica Chic (www.lachicachic.com), happening shoes, handbags, and accessories with a Brazilian flair, decorated with semi-precious gemstones, beads, and rare South American crystals. English Retreads (www.englishretreads.com) makes recycling a bold fashion statement with their line of unique handbags and accessories. Leaders in Leather (www.leadersinleather.net), expertly crafted hand tooled leather handbags, small leather goods and luggage. Show off that body or cover up your swimsuit in style: Letarte (www.letarteswimwear.com), brings the South Seas to you with seductive yet practical designs. Hula-la Girl (www.hulagirlswim.com), sexy, sweet and flattering swimwear.

Hula-Girl Sexy Suits

Malibu Dream Girl (www.malibuswim.com), California-based swimwear designs, created with a great fit in mind. Katorey Swimwear (www.katoreyswim.com), helps you stand out in the crowd with one-of-a-kind designs that are as comfortable as your favorite undies. Canyon Beach Wear (www.canyonbeachwear.com). Voted “best bikini store in L.A.”, they have something to suit every body. Softly lighting the way with candles from: Evergreen Candleworks (www.evergreencandleworks.com), “soy good” with all-natural soy candles and lotion bars. Heirloom Candles (www.heirloomcandles.com, paraffin wax- and petroleum-free, pure soy candles are not only safe, but moisturize your skin as well. And this diverse collection: T-Box (www.t-box.ca), soft, creasy, wrinkly and lovable t-shirts squeezed into a tiny box. Commandos (www.gocommandos.com), makes panty lines obsolete with uniquely-shaped, disposable cotton patches you wear between you..and your pants. Suzannes Intimate Apparel Solutions (www.intimateapparelsolutions.com), a classy and unique way to carry feminine products. Leakey Collection (www.leakeycollection.com), stunning hand-crafted African-inspired natural jewelry using fallen wood, grass and ceramics. Diva Diamonds (www.divadiamonds.net) are a girl’s best friend with stunning pieces such as rings, earrings, pendants, necklaces and bracelets. Celebrity Chitt (www.celebritychitt.com), brand and product marketing for the celeb crowd. Luxury gift bags full of select goods and gift certificates from The Plaza Retail Collection. About The Secret Room The Secret Room Events plans, designs and creates luxurious celebrity gifting suites and lounges prior to all the major awards shows including the Emmy Awards, Sundance, MTV Movie Awards, the Oscars and the Golden Globes. The Secret Room Events aims to provide an upscale way for clients to place their products in the forefront of public awareness. Learn more about The Secret Room at www.secretroomevents.com

Oscar® night

The Black Eyed Peas were honored with the Spirit Award.

Children Uniting Nations was the beneficiary of proceeds raised on the eve of the famous awards ceremony. Children Uniting Nations is a pro-active organization designed to bring attention to the plight of at-risk children and foster youth. Their noble mission is to reach as many children as possible by offering role-model support, guidance, a sense of community and to actively promote education. Learn more about CUN at www.childrenunitingnations.org

Held at the iconic Beverly Hilton Hotel in their “International Gallery”, the gift lounge was a welcome respite for some of Hollywood’s biggest stars. Wow Creations saw to it that Celebs happily walked away with more than $10,000 worth of fabulous swag, while supporting a very worthy cause in the process.

Some of the celebs included Oscar-winner Martin Landau, “Dancing with the Stars” actor Steve Guttenberg, Ted Danson and his Oscar winning wife Mary Steenburgen, the winner of the evening’s Spirit Award, The Black Eyed Peas, Oscar Winner Sir Ben Kinglsey, Celebrity Apprentice star Stephen Baldwin, Oscar nominated Director for “Waltz with Bashir” Ari Folman, Grammy winning artist Colby O’Donis, Tracey Edmunds, Bai Ling, Ricky Schroader, The internet’s most downloaded woman Cindy Margolis, and Shar Jackson,  just to name a few.

Celebs WOWed with Great Gifts

Among the great swag given out Oscar night were products and services from:

Khanna Institute of LASIK (www.khannainstitute.com) are pioneers of laser vision correction. Dr. Rajesh Khanna is a certified Master of Surgery and an internationally recognized top LASIK and refractive vision care specialist. His focuses on patient safety, and performs only the safest and most advanced types of refractive laser surgery. His cutting edge vision correction techniques include the ultra-precise WavePrint eye tracking software, 3D ActiveTrak and Variable Spot Scanning. In this high-tech field, knowledge is power and Dr. Khanna also trains and educates many new ophthalmologists each year.

Patients love Dr. Khann’s services so much that they frequently refer their friends and family. He has even performed procedures many celebrities and even on his own family, including his own 76-year old mother! Dr. Khann treats a variety of eye concerns including blended vision and monovision, and also performs cataract surgery and reflective lens exchange.

Accessorize with Spirit (www.DerrichJ.com) by Derrich J. creates “each piece to enhance the lives of every person”. Derrich J’s amazing jewelry designs are hand-made and electric, and truly pieces of art. Derrich gathers raw stone and gem materials from all over the world to make his beautiful jewelry. Each piece is one-of-a-kind and can never be replicated exactly same, which makes it both unique and priceless. Putting effort and feeling into his creations, Derrick sometimes spending as much as 10 hours to produce a single piece.

Amazing crystal jewelry from Accessorize with Spirit, unique gorgeous pieces!

The Margarita King premiered its delicious Pomagranat Margarita.

The Margarita King

(www.themargaritaking.com) keeps everyone happy with their ever-popular and famous Margaritas. Margarita King is the result of an extensive search for the very best. Giovanni, the creator of  The Margarita King, made sure nothing escaped his quest. Two years were devoted to researching and creating the perfect margarita mix, experimenting with different mixes until he found “the one”. The Margarita King is a self-contained margarita cocktail that carries the highest alcohol content, 17% ABV, of any margarita cocktail. It is the only ready-to-serve cocktail ever to win three gold medals awarded by the Beverage Testing Institute of Chicago. A fabulous combination of the finest double-distilled tequila from Arandas, Mexico, and smooth orange liqueur, Giovanni’s insistence on quality and consistency shows in every bottle.

Bryton Pick (www.brytonpick.com) is a discreet alternative to flossing that makes it easy and fast. Made of flexible, germ-resistant diamond-cut stainless steel, the blunt cleaning edges are as thin as the finest floss. Easy to clean and re-usable for up to 30 days, the Bryton Pick comes with its own flat carrying pouch. This innovative design is a comfortable alternative to clumsy standard flossing. It is so small it can use it anywhere, anytime. Never be caught out again without your Bryton Pick!

Bryton Pick - discreet enough to use anywhere!

J. Sabitelli Brazil (www.jsabatelli.com) brings the beauty of Brazilian women to the world. For generations Brazilians have used natural skin enhancing remedies from Brazilian Amazon Rainforest plants to tone, smooth, and brighten the skin. These botanical extracts contain natural age fighting properties, which have been around for centuries. Bring the beauty of Brazil to your skin with natural botanical extracts combined with the latest in peptide technology. The best of both worlds.

J Sabatelli natural skincare from Brazil.

Naturock (www.naturock.com) is a unique bracelet designed to slowly release the scent of essential oils. The bracelets are essentially made from rubber, with stainless steel accents and clasp, and framing a round piece of  lava rock;  essential oils are placed into the porous rock where the fabulous aroma lingers and lasts for up to one week. Naturock is based in Japan. The company uses magma ad lava rock as sustainable materials to build with. Amazing uses of natural materials to create sustainable solutions. Bravo Naturock! www.Naturock.jp

Gorgeous Naturock bracelet made of all natural materials.

Gaea Olive Oils (www.gaea.gr) are the first virgin olive oils in the world certified to be carbon neutral. Grown naturally in the fertile earth of Greece, these great tasting oils are from sun-ripened and traditionally harvested olives. Olive oils are “good fats” and heart healthy, and Gaea makes it easy to cook healthier with a full line of products. They also offer side items like tapenades, salads, sauces and other Greek specialties. To learn more about what carbon neutral means or about climate protection please visit www.myclimate.org.

Gillian Christie with Gaea Olive Oil from Greece.

Saphoros Spa Essential (www.saphoros.com) believes in taking a natural approach to skincare. Their spa-quality, cruelty-free formulas feature premium natural ingredients, active botanicals, essential oils, and natural colors. Certified by PETA’s caring consumer program, Saphoro’s products treat acne, rosacea, dry skin, fine lines and wrinkles.

Saphoros Spa Body Premium Skincare and Mineral Cosmetics.

Halcyon Jets (www.halcyonjets.com) is a refreshing, new approach to luxury private jet charter services. Going anywhere in the world, Halcyon arranges luxury private jet flights for their select clientele. Virtually any size and type of aircraft available.

Binaca, Dr. Fresh

Binaca (www.binaca.com) keeps the famous crowd smiling with their breath-freshening products. Binaca sprays are available in spearmint, peppermint and cinnamint. For over 75 years, Binaca has left mouths feeling, and smelling, fresh, and has new products coming soon.

Dr. Fresh (www.drfresh.com) provides affordable health and personal care products, from dental care to baby wipes. Their distribution network has products in power stores such as Wal-Mart, Target, Kmart, Walgreens, CVS, Kroger, Safeway, DG, FD, DT, Big Lots.

Vamp Bags (www.vampbags.com) heads an eco-fashion revolution in handbags. Exterior materials include pliable European faux calf skin, which meets European Green Emissions Standards, or an American-made stiffer fabric with a water based lacquer process. Interior materials are animal-friendly and include generous padding for the inside pockets of messenger bags and the sides of the laptop portfolio. Their large selection of bags puts the vamp back in fashion.

Trips for Fundraising founder Alyssa Johnson and actor Steven Baldwin.

Trips4Fundraising provides non-profit organizations with tailored luxury vacation packages forfundraising events benefiting the organizations’programs and missions. A silent travel auction was also organized to benefit the Melanoma Reasearch Foundation. Celebrity participation included Stephen Baldwin, Dominique Swain from “Lolita”, Anna Lynne McCord from “90210″, Benito Martinez from “The Shield”, James Kyson Lee from Heroes, Black Eyed Peas, among many others. Trips4Fundraising offers carbon neutral trips and carbon offsetting for travelers. More info on the Oscars events is available at www.trips4fundraising.wordpress.com 

Indulgent Escapes (www.indulgent-escapes.com) brings luxury Mexico and Central merica vacations to the affluent vacationer.

Founder Sheena Shastri for Sacsies, and Indulgent Escapes.

Sacsies (www.Sacsies.com) are made for women who just love their shoes. These colorful and handy shoe storage and travel bags are designed to take care of your favorite pairs, from home closet to hotel closet and everywhere in between.

No more plastic dry cleaner bags!

Goody Green Bags (www.drygreening.com) are a trendy eco-friendly alternative to paper or plastic bags. Affordable, functional and reusable, they easily fold down into the size of an envelope. The bags are made from non-woven polypropylene which is a coated, water resistant material that is also light-weight, durable, fire resistant and washable. Fun patterns for every mood or whimsy. Use it to take your dry cleaning in, leave it with them, and take your newly-cleaned clothes away in this bag, and never have to use plastic bags again!

Purity Mineral Makeup www.buypurity.com Pruity is mineral make up that is bismuth, talc,and fragrance-free. It’s a new revolution is mineral makeup. Anti-aging, superior coverage, combats acne, great for senstive skin. Contains 18 active amino acids for healthy skin.

WOW Creations

Since 2004, WOW creations has designed sensational gift lounges and swag bags for celebrity-filled events such as the MTV Video Music Awards, Emmy Awards, Miss Universe Pageant, Sundance Film Festival and many others. They are a boutique public relations firm that offers a full range of services for clients. Visit them at www.wowcreationsmedia.com

Photographs by Kerstin Alm.

Helping fill the lovely gifts bags were products for these generous companies:

Popchips (www.popchips.com), never fried, never baked, always delicious potato chips.

Fly High Joy (www.flyhighjoy.com), fun inspiration t-shirts and plush toys.

High Maintenance Mobile Spa Team (www.mobilespateam.com), everything you need to look and feel great, right at your home or office.

Marc Edward Skincare (www.marcedwardskincare.com),whose experience helps you put your best face forward.

Ageless and Beautiful (www.agelessandbeautiful.com), injectables, weight loss, plastic surgery, and spa treatments to rejuvenate and re-inspire.

Spongeables (www.spongeables.com), handy, fun, and practical shower gel in a sponge.

Fudge Is My Life (www.fudgeismylife.com), has chocolate lovers rejoicing with their line of chocolate sauces.

Selina Naturally (www.selinanaturally.com), home of Celtic Sea Salt®.

Pure Chocolate (www.pure-chocolate.com)

Dorothy’s Candies (www.dorothyscandies.com), fine gourmet chocolates with old fashioned goodness.

The Ameriana at Brand (www.americanaatbrand.com), the ultimate in shopping, dining and entertainment, in the heart of Glendale.

Katsuya in Glendale (www.sbe.com/katsuya), luxurious private events with full menu featuring indoor and outdoor seating.

Redken (www.redken.com), perhaps the most well-known name in hair color and products.

Gregs Hemp Oil (www.gregshempoilvin.com), the best nutritional oil for your health with Omega-6, Omega-3, and GLA.

GBK, a leader in custom, high-class special events and gifts suites, honored the 2009 Oscar nominees and presenters in unique style this past week with their “Circus of the Senses” gifting suite at the gorgeous SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills.

Celebrities and VIPs were invited to engage their senses by touching, feeling, smelling, seeing and tasting their way through the creatively decorated suites, each of which were themed from this year’s selection of Best Film nominees.

In the suites, visitors enjoyed boutique design company Freshwata’s interpretation of the nominated films, with authentic-feeling props and displays.

Engaging the Senses

A-Listers were treated to tasty hors d’ oeuvres and sweets by renown chef José Andés of the the SLS Hotel. They had their senses tingled with beauty treatments such as body wraps and facials, and musical entertainment ranging from DJ to the Nick Rallis Band.

Musician/singer Nick Rallis and DJ Casey Conner perform at the GBK Oscar Gifting Suite.

Spirits were raised along with money, as 20% of gift suite proceeds went to charitable organizations such as Director Antoine Fuqua’s Fuqua Films Program, Homeless Not Toothless, Hollywood Dreamz, and World Team Foundation. GBK this year also introduced an amazing new way to give something back: Celebrities and VIPs were offered the opportunity to gift back their GBK bag to the charity of their choice. GBK founder Gavin Kelly pays special attention charity, teaming up with non-profit foundations in order to raise much-needed funds for worthy causes around the world.

Those Who Benefited

These diverse 501(c)(3) non-profits were the benefiting charities of the GBK 2009 Oscar Gift Suite:

World Team Foundation (www.world-team-foundation.org). Committed to reducing human trafficking, with a goal of raising money to rescue impoverished children from modern sexual slavery. Their focus is on Thailand, where 800,000 of the country’s prostitutes are under the age of 18, and 200,000 under the age of 12.

World Team Foundation Angel Rick Clark

Hollywood Dreamz (www.HollywoodDreamz.com). Focuses on improving children’s lives by providing crucial support for children’s education, arts, and character development programs. Through a variety of tools, including scholarship programs for underprivileged youth, assisting nonprofits during funding shortfalls, and providing resources to other organizations, Hollywood Dreamz is able to help those in need.

Fuqua Film Program (www.fuquafilmprogram.org). A twelve week summer film intensive for young adults. Its goal is to expose students to opportunities in the entertainment industry, as well as educate them by offering weekly lectures, exercises, guest speakers, and field trips. At the end, the students will each write, direct and edit their own short film.

Homeless Not Toothless (www.homelessnottoothless.org). Founded by Dr. Jay Grossman, they provide free dental care to the homeless and underserved. Since its inception, Homeless Not Toothless has provided over $1,000,000 in service for this population.

Gifts Designed for All

Goods and services gifted in this year’s suites were truly engaging, and nominees and presenters walked away with more than $35,000 in gifts.

K-Swiss (www.kswiss) has a varied line of footwear for the whole family, including shoes for running, yoga, nautical, and walking. Representing innovation, quality, performance and style, K-Swiss’ line has grown from its humble beginnings with tennis footwear 40 years ago. Always forward-thinking, K-Swiss even has shoes with “custom insoles” that feature a modular, individualized sole system made for custom performance and fit. Create your own “custom” K-Swiss shoe on their web site.

Dr. Chiu’s Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery, Inc. (www.beverlyhillsplasticsurgeryinc.com) is led by renown plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Gabriel Chiu, who specializes in minimally-invasive ways to enhance natural beauty. While delivering exceptional results in all aspects of plastic and cosmetic surgery, Dr. Chiu is most well-known for superb body contouring, breast augmentation, and facial procedures. Dr. Chiu’s practice provides a positive, relaxing environment, where patients can be pampered in their Chanel-inspired suite with a retail skincare lounge and private VIP reception, while in the care of knowledgeable and personable staff.

Croton Watches (www.crotonwatch.com) has been one of the most sought-after and respected names in watches for over 130 years. With styles such as sporty, vintage, executive, casual, exotic or black tie, there is not much these watches won’t match with. Croton also carries a line of exotic leather goods, featuring bags, purses, wallets, belts, CD cases and attaches.

Unique, quality Croton Watches - Steven Jay

LifeCell Skincare (www.lifecellskin.com) gives stunning results – in 60 seconds. LifeCell Skincare cream uses both light reflective technology to reduce the look of wrinkles immediately and anti-aging properties to make your skin healthier and younger-looking over time. Its all-natural formula helps revive skin’s appearance, tightening and adding a youthful glow. The scientifically-proven ingredients reduce the appearance of lines, wrinkles, sagging skin, age-spots, under-eye dark circles and puffiness.

LifeCell - Look younger...immediately!

J & A Shoe Company (www.jandashoes.com) kicks up its heels with fashionable, fun, and comfortable sandals, wedges and thongs for women. Made in California with input from customers, J & A shoes use only the best materials imported from Italy. A family-owned business, J & A shoes has decades of experience with shoe-making, ensuring quality, comfort and fit. The three stylish lines Athena Alexander, Callisto of California, and Lia Bijou, range from simple and down-to-earth, to flashy and up-scale. You can find this great line in Nordstroms and other fine retail outlets.

Alexander Bizoumis Shows Off Locally-Made J & A Shoes

Dara Ettinger (www.daraettinger.com) creates unique, timeless and beautiful jewelry. Drawing inspiration from nature, Dara incorporates natural stones, metals, and elements into her wonderful pieces. From smoothly polished stone rings, cut stone necklaces, bracelets and matching earrings, all of Dara’s creations impart warmth, sparkle, shine – and uniqueness.

Dara Ettinger and Her Amazing Jewelry Creations

Textiles for Thinkers (www. Thinkerclothing.com) is for the thinker in all of us. T-shirts with science, tech, engineering and math themes are created for men, women and kids. Textiles for Thinkers also offers “smart” jewelry like “heat sinks” and “black and blue jumper wire”.

Lisa Clark Makes Being Smart Stylish

Nordic Naturals (www.nordicnaturals.com) is the leading supplier of fish oils to the natural product industry. It has been proven that essential fatty acids are crucial for good healthy, and we must get it from an outside source, as our bodies do not produce it. But not all fish oils are alike; Nordic NaturalsWith purity, outstanding taste and freshness, the award-winning Omega 3 fish oils from Norway exceed international standards. They are pharmaceutical-grade, doctor-recommended and third-party tested.

Metropolis (www.metropolistechnology.com). Professional stylists and style-savvy consumers know that Metropolis products deliver the most cutting-edge technology with their styling tools. The tech-enhanced line of premium tools allows for better, longer-lasting styles and healthier, shinier, more manageable hair. The secret is Tourmaline, a mineral used as a natural source of ions. Ions provide special energy that makes hair dry faster, healthier and shinier, and becomes more resistant to humidity. The line of professional products features the Tourmaline Ionic Dryer, the Tourmaline Ionic Iron, the Tourmaline Ionic Digital Curling Iron and the Zirconia Ionic Dryer, all of which keep celeb locks shiny and lushious.

Anna Lynn Mccord of Beverly Hills 90210, Diedre Hall of Days of Our Lives.

TriSpecs (www.trispecs.com) is a high tech innovation that allows you to answer your phone and listen to music – all through your sunglasses. TriSpecs are a cool new way to wirelessly connect to your mobile phone and music player. Switch from music to a telephone call seamlessly and enjoy unparalleled voice quality. Noise canceling stereo headphones ensure a great musical experience.

Isaac Levy Demonstrates the Tech Savvy TriSpecs Sunglasses

Amazon Thunder (www.amazonthunder.com) uses the berry you may have heard so much about – the acai – in their 100% certified organic blend of products. Touted as the “high-energy berry” of the Amazon palm tree, the acai tastes like a vibrant blend of berries and chocolate. The anti-oxidant berry is offered in an Acai Puree, the Thunder Pouch, Thunder Caps, and Thunder Scoop. It does not contain any harmful preservatives.

Robert and Jeanette Reum Surrounded by Healthy Amazon Thunder

Senseo Coffee (www.senseo.us) is designed for those who just want one cup of sensational coffee. The personal coffee machine is available in a variety of colors to complement any décor. The accompanying Senseo coffee pods are individual packs of truly inspired flavors including Godiva Chocolate Cream and Crème Brulee.

Verve! Energy Drink (www.verve.com) is a healthy, natural way to get that extra push, with your choice of energy drink or energy shot. The products naturally boost energy with 80-150 mg of caffeine, mangosteen fruit and tropical fruit flavoring. Also available in low natural sugar and sugar free versions.

RevitaLash (www.revitalash.com) is a remarkable conditioner that helps your eyelashes look longer and thicker. Using RevitaLash just once a day will give you dramatically longer natural lashes without resorting to extensions. Even if your eyelashes are brittle, short, fragile, thin, or sparse, this amazing treatment can help you get the healthy look you want. RevitaLash has also launched Hair by RevitaLash, a conditioner that provides a thicker and fuller head of hair.

Hansen Cakes (www.hansencakes.com) showed off detailed, true-to-life images of the Best Film nominees on their delicious cakes made available for guests to sample. Tasty, moist and outstandingly decorated, Hansen Cakes’ recipes have been passed down from generation to generation. From traditional ‘Old World’ designs to contemporary ‘high-tech’ styles, the Hansen name is recognized as one of the finest in cake baking and decorating.

Academy Award's Cake by Hansen Cakes

Milus (www.milus.com) boasts an impressive and innovative collection of watches and jewelry. Luxurious, unique and timeless, these original pieces are solid, yet elegant. Their collections include precision-crafted watches and artistic jewelry, for both men and women.

Icon Products (www.iconproducts.com) are a complete line of quality hair care products. With a range of shampoos, conditioners, treatments and styling formulas, Icon Products are designed to energize, strengthen and de-stress hair. Icon Products has also launched a “Cure for a Cause” campaign, where money from their Cure spray will be donated to help find a cure for cancer.

Lalo Fit (www.lalofitness.com) is headed by Lalo Fuentes, a Certified Strength and Conditioning Coach, personal trainer and lifestyle coach. Lalo offers simple and effective ways to train you body to reach its full potential, whether in person or on his excellent DVD, which you can do in the convenience of your own home.

Lalo Fuentes, Certified Strength and Conditioning Trainer (rt)

Earth Kit for Kids (www.earthkits.com) puts the “green” concept in front of children in a way they can understand. These creative kits contain inspirational ideas and useful items that teach children about the environment, including a book, 100% organic cotton t-shirt, fun dog tag, BPA-free water bottle, and a seeded download card with two free songs (card can be planted after use!).

Earth Kits for Kids Teaching Kids How to be Eco-Friendly

Pür-Lisse (www.purlisse.com) all-natural skincare products are based on time-tested Chinese beauty rituals coupled with modern French technology. Pür-lisse products protect sensitive skin, while having anti-aging benefits. Free of parabens and petrochemicals, the unique skincare line offers Lotus Lupine Peptide Complex, which is a powerful antioxidant for healthy, young-looking skin.

Generate 1,000 (www.dietmagic1000.com) is a synergy of supplemental support that provides powerful anti-aging and immune-supporting properties. These benefits are in a convenient, effervescing formula that can be carried, sampled, and served from the Generate 1000 “Strength Straws”, individual-sized servings for mixing in bottled or filtered water.

Sofia Milos supporting Generate 1000.

Styleshop USA (www.styleshopUSA.com) allows you to shop online in style. Whether you need beauty supplies, jewelry, dresses or accessories, Styleshop USA has the internet bases covered.

Styleshop dresses, purses and wraps.

Emre New York (www.emreny.com) luxury handbags feature standout designs. Merging expert stitching with finished leather to produce a versatile and functional collection, Emre handbags range from medium sized all-Italian leather handbags and clutches to business-style bags and totes. Adding the perfect touch of detailing and hardware allows Emre bags to stand out from the crowd, while creating that must-have look. Fox 5 News cited Emre bags as, “the most versatile bags to come along in years.”

Rock Our World (www.rockourworld.net) features beautiful crystals, minerals, jewelry, gifts and home décor. Each item is hand-picked to ensure quality and integrity. A large selection of gorgeous polished stones ensure that there is something for every style.

Infinity Sun Spray Tans (www.infinitysun.com) is sunless tanning and skincare treatment in one step. The anti-aging, all-natural product blends help prepare and soften skin, while ensuring long-lasting color.

9022 Salon (310.278.6738) has stylists that pay attention to detail. Exquisite color, extensions and chemical treatments.

Got2b (www.got2b.com) is a full line of haircare products which allow individuals to express themselves. These power products are the perfect way to shape hair and show some attitude. From gel, hairspray, shine serums, blow dry lotion, rubber cement and freeze spray, got2b gives users the power to create.

Mistura Beauty Solutions (www.misturabeauty.com) offers their 6-in-1 Beauty Solution to simplify your life. Featuring their Miracle Match Colour Blend Technology^TM, Mistura easily mixes with all skin types and colors. A favorite at the 2009 Golden Globes and Sundance, this product replaces six different make up items without the need for multi-step applications or multiple brushes. It can be used as a bronzer, eye shadow, concealer, foundation, blush and lipstick to make life simpler for busy women.

ZeroSmoke (www.zerosmoke.org) helps people quit smoking – naturally – without drugs or pills. It is non-allergenic, and easy to use. Based on the principles of acupuncture, ZeroSmoke uses two biomagnets to create a precise pressure point on the outer ear, which stimulates the production of neurotransmitters in the brain, eliminating the desire to smoke quickly and efficiently.

Waterford Crystal (www.Waterford.com) speaks of quality. The fine crystal is used in gorgeous items ranging from classic crystal stemware and chandeliers to sporting trophies and the Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball. A wedding gift staple, Waterford Crystal has withstood the test of time, offering elegance and sophistication.

Kenan Thompson of Saturday Night Live and Force for Earth

Force for Earth (www.forearthonline.com) lets you save on fuel costs with their Force for Earth Fuel & Engine Conditioner. The conditioner helps your engine burn fuel more efficiently, so it saves gas and reduces toxic emissions. It also lubricates the walls of the combustion chamber to help prevent engine damage, increasing the life expectancy of your vehicle. Non-toxic, non-hazardous, safe for the environment, and easy to use.

Indulgent Escapes (www.indulgentescapes.com) features the finest in luxury travel with vacation options in beautiful Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean, including fabulous destinations such as Raffles – Canouan Island, The Crane Resort – Barbados, Beach and Water Club – Puerto Rico, and Morritts – Grand Cayman.

Six Senses Destination Spa (www.sixsenses.com) offers world-class innovative services that combine cutting-edge holistic and modern treatments within the beautiful and tranquil Thai Islands. The spa features four unique interrelated spa concepts (Chinese, Indian, Indonesian and Thai) with ground- breaking fitness programs. An amazing spa/vacation combination.

Kirkwood International (www.kathleenkirkwood.com) helps you instantly increase your bust size without having to undergo surgery. BUST-ease is a revolutionary bra insert that is seamless, lightweight and shaped like real breasts, BUST-ease helps give you a fuller and firmer look. Invisible under clothes, the cool, quick-dry fabric even works with swimwear. Said Paula Abdul, American Idol judge, at the gift suite, “The gels are hot and sticky. Your bras are smooth.” Kirkwood also has a line of body slimmers, that provide a smooth and sleek silhouette.

About GBK

GBK is a fundraising and special events specialist that provides extraordinary service to its clients. Known in the industry for their unique way of mixing entertainment with charity, GBK hosts gifting suites for the most memorable and high-profile events. Visit them at www.gbkproductions.com.

Stars-a-Plenty

This year’s list of star attendees at the GBK gift suite included Aaron Carter (Recording Artist), Adrien Brody (The Piano), Alexander Skarsgard (True Blood), Chi McBride (Pushing Daisies), Deidre Hall (Days of our Lives), Deanna Russo (Knight Rider), Dustin Lance Black (nominee, Milk), Erin Cummings (Dollhouse), Jamie King (Tudors), Joel Murray (Madmen), Joey Fatone (Dancing with the Stars), Keenan Thompson (SNL), Kyla Pratt (Hotel for Dogs), Kunal Nayyar (Big Bang Theory), Madisen Beaty (nominee – Benjamin Buttons), Michael Sermanick (nominee, Wall E and The Curious Benjamin Button), Marianne Jean – Baptiste (Without a Trace), Paula Abdul (American Idol), Paul Ben Victor (Daredevil), Rachelle Lefevre (Twilight), Rebecca Alleway (nominee THE DUTCHESS), Robert Buckley (Lipstick Jungle), Rachael Smith (Former Miss USA), Scott Hamilton Kennedy (nominee, The Garden), Sean Faris (Forever Strong), Wally Pfister (nominee, Dark Knight), Adam Gregory (90210), Amanda Righetti (The Mentalist), AnnaLynne McCord (90210), Anil Kapoor (Slumdog Millionaire), Bradley Rapler (Winner of Superstars of Dance), Chris Boyes (nominee, Iron Man), Cody Longo (Ball Don’t Lie), James Kyson Lee (Heroes), Jason Kennedy (E! Correspondent), Jennifer Coolidge (Legally Blonde), Julia Ling (Chuck), Kate Flannery (The Office), Katie Price (Peter and Katie), Keily Williams (Cheetah Girls), Loretta Devine (Grey’s Anatomy), Madeline Zima (Californiacation), Michael Calin (nominee, The Duchess), Michael Copon (The Scorpion King), Michael Sheen (Frost Nixon), Peter Andre (Peter and Katie), Riki Lindhome (Changeling), Skylar Astin (Woodstock), Terrell Owens (Dallas Cowboys), Tichina Arnold (Everybody Hates Chris, Transformers 2), Tom Arnold, Tony Denison (The Closer).

Sponsors and gifters included Six Senses Destination Spa in Thailand, Milus, Waterford Crystal, Indulgent Escapes, K-Swiss, Metropolis Technology, Tri-Specs, LifeCell Skin Care, RevitaLash, Barbara Conner Jewelry, Nordic Naturals, Styleshop USA, Body Beautiful, Mitstura Beauty, Infinity Suns Spray Tans, 9022 Salon, Senseo Coffee, Rock Our World, Verve!, got2b Hair, Force for the Earth, Generate 1,000, Lalo Fit, Dr. Chiu’s Bevery Hills Plastic Surgery, Croton Watches, Icon Products, Earth Kits, Zero Smoke, J & A Shoe Company, Dara Ettinger, Emre New York, Indulgent Escapes, Pur-Lisse, Kirkwood International, and Hansen Cakes.

The 2009 Film Independent’s Spirit Awards were held Saturday, February 21, at picturesque Santa Monica, CA. Film Independent is an organization that champions independent film and supports a community of artists who embody diversity, innovation, and uniqueness of vision. The Spirit Awards is the premier awards event for the independent film community.

Set up in a large tent which was all-encompassing, The Film Independant Spirit Awards took place at the beach in Santa Monica.

Excitement was in the air as the On 3 Productions Gift Lounge, held just a day before the Oscars for Spirit Awards participants, opened up to celebrities. Jessica Alba, Christina Applegate, and Cameron Diaz were among the guests eagerly waiting backstage to customize their own unique gift collections from vendors.  On 3 Productions, the official Independant Spirit Awards Gift Lounge producer, has shown a keen intuition for finding gifts celebrities love.

These following vendors wowed the crowd with these fabulous goodies:

PALM Pre

Lucky celebs who attended the 2009 Film Independent’s Spirit Award Gift Lounge including Jessica Alba, Sandra Oh, and Taraji P. Henson, were overjoyed to be among the very first to receive the limited and highly anticipated Palm Pre, along with 6 months of complimentary service from Sprint, since the Palm Pre is only available exclusively with Sprint.

Eliza Dushku with Palm Pre (Sprint)

In fact, Sandra Oh was so thrilled with her new gift that she immediately requested that Palm call the Grey’s Anatomy propmaster on Monday so that her character on the show could be brought up to speed with the hottest technology! The Pre was previously unveiled in January at the in Las Vegas, where it received much praise and acclaim due to it’s superior capability and design that enable it to be harmoniously in sync with the user’s needs. By gracefully compiling information from the user’s phone, work, and the web into one simple, integrated view, the user can keep multiple applications open, simultaneously flip from one to another, and maneuver easily between activities without losing they’re current place. Alongside all those fore-mentioned desirable phone qualities, the Pre also has the advantage of a smooth, rounded ergonomic design with a touch screen and a slide-out keyboard. www.palm.com

On top of doling out handfuls of Pre’s, which are not yet on the market, Palm also made a noteworthy contribution to Project:Involve, the Film Independent’s signature diversity program, for every celebrity that entered the Gift Lounge. Once there, celebs took the liberty of leaving messages of encouragement on the new Palm Pre’s for all the filmmakers who benefit from the program. Here are a few of the messages that were left:

“Hi, this is Michelle Monoghan calling, I just want to say keep up the good work, keep doing what you’re doing!  What you’re doing is a labor of love and that’s what we all do!  And God bless indie film and keep up the good work and keep making them!”  ”Hi, this is Justine Bateman and I just want to say to you do not quit!  Do not quit because if you do we won’t hear your voice and we need it!” “Hi, this is Kerry Washington:  I can’t wait to see you guys at the awards next year or the year after so keep up your indie thing and never be anyone else, always be who you are!”

AMC Entertainment Exclusive AMC Signature Pass:

AMC, who brings independant films to communities at their theatres all over the country was also delightfully on hand to offer each glamorous star and one guest of their choosing the amazing opportunity to see movies for free at more than 350 AMC Theatres around the world for an entire year. Legendary song crooner Michael Bolton sang a funny, new tune saying “it’s Christmas in Santa Monica” when he received his AMC Theatres Signature Pass, and Indie sovereign Ileana Douglas promised she would take her grandmother to the matinees at the AMC in Century City that she loves with her passes.

Oscar nominee Taraji P. Henson with AMC Theatres

Oscar’s Best Actress nominee Taraji P. Henson said she looks forward to taking her son to the movies as she chomped down on some concession-style Gummi stars, while Jessica Alba commented that the movie passes were “fresh” and her absolute favorite gift in the lounge. Eric Roberts, who catches a movie every Friday morning at AMC, said he’s very excited and that his wife will probably die when she finds out that they’ve got a year of free movies! www.amctheaters.com

ST. Regis Monarch Beach Resort 1-Night Stay in Monarch Suite

Stars were also graciously gifted an exclusive one night stay in a St. Regis Monarch Suite, the only Mobil Five Star and AAA Five Diamond Resort in California, which is located on 172 acres overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Dana Point between Los Angeles and San Diego.  The Monarch Suites are located on the 7th floor of the main building with full ocean views, with 3 bay suites that are 1,466 square feet each and have lovely private key access elevators, butler service, a living room, 2 balconies, a dining table with seating for 10, a wet bar, pantry, fireplace, guest bathroom and master bathroom with Jacuzzi. Michael Bolton spoke nonstop of his love of golf and how he especially loves the Robert Trent Jones Golf Course on the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort property.  He says that he’s really looking forward to a night at the resort!  Robin Wright Penn and Sandra Oh, who are already huge fans of the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort and have stayed there before are looking forward to yet another trip, while Best Actor winner Mickey Rourke plans to take a break after the “craziness of the award-show season.” While walking away with his one gift from the Gift Lounge he murmured, “I wonder if they allow pets?”. www.stregismb.com

GLOWELLE Beauty Drink Dietary Supplement – 1-Year Supply

Glowelle, whose motto is to “drink in beautiful skin“, was also at the Gift Lounge to make celebrities who were already radiant glow even more. A years worth of Glowelle’s new ingestible skincare supplement that promotes natural, radiant beauty from the inside out was generously given to each celebrity.

Melissa Leo trys Glowelle Beauty Drink.

As they were gifted they asked, “What makes you glow?”. Here’s what they replied: “Love makes me glow because it comes from within” -Taraji P. Henson, as she sipped on a delicious Glowelle smoothie; “My daughter, Honor” -Jessica Alba; “Laughing everyday” -Rose Perez; “Writing something good” -John Waters; “I think you know the answer to that….hmmmh!” -Alec Baldwin; “Joy in my heart”-Melissa Leo, Best Actress winner for “Frozen River”; “Free stuff!”-Richard Jenkins; “My wife of 17 years, Eliza Roberts”-Eric Roberts. www.glowelle.com

Arm & Hammer Advance White Toothpaste and Whitening Booster “Last Minute Smile Kit”

Arm and Hammer, onhand to ‘brighten up’ their day, was a vendor of the Gift Lounge committed to equipping star’s with the must-have essentials to ensure bright smiles by donating special kits that included certificates for a one-year supply of Advance White Toothpaste. Furthermore, when Dana Delany and Bryan Cranston dropped by the Arm & Hammer Advance White Toothpaste and Whitening Booster station, the Arm and Hammer attendants decided to have a little fun and asked them, “What movie made you smile?”. They both grinned and replied that “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” made them beam from ear to ear! Advanced White Toothpaste, specially created to supply deep-cleaning, leaves users with white “red-carpet worthy” smiles, a fresh from the dentist clean feeling, and teeth that are 3x whiter! www.myoralcare.com

Blue Notch Denim Jeans

The number one supplier of premium Japanese Denim for men and women, Blue Notch Denim Jeans, was also at the Gift Lounge to outfit celebs in one of a kind, great-fitting jeans. Rosie Perez could not stop commenting on how much she loved how stretch of Blue Notch Jeans denim accentuated her curves and booty! To boot, Jessica Alba, who is really into Japanese denim and was unaware of the origin of Blue Notch Denim, was ecstatic to find out that’s where Blue Notch Denim is from. However, no one was as ecstatic as Mena Suvari, who loved the custom ripped jeans that the rep from Blue Notch was wearing so much that she made a special request and ordered two pairs. Even “30 Rock” star Alec Baldwin couldn’t resist out a pair of Blue Notch Jeans for his daughter Ireland, while Oscar nominee Richard Jenkins said he’ll be living in his new Blue Notch Jeans! Lastly, the always beautiful, Andie McDowell officially launched Blue Notch Denim Jeans into the Hollywood stratosphere when said she plans to wear her new Blue Notch Jeans home on the plane! www.bluenotchjeans.com

Koolaburra Genuine Australian-made Sheepskin Boots

Koolaburra, the brand that features gorgeous boots with embroidered leather appliqués and Swarovski crystals that are actually made in Australia, showcased the hottest, newest styles from their Fall ‘09 collection for men and women at the Gift Lounge. As soon as she saw them, Jessica Alba quickly snatched up a pair of Koolaburra’s “Crystal Flock” Genuine Australian Sheepskin Boots in black from their not yet released Fall ‘09 collection that features Swarovski crystal birds.

Justine Bateman with Koolaburra boots

Meanwhile backstage, Mena Suvari slipped into a pair of her very own new Koolaburra boots- the “Erika Short”, which feature beautiful adornments of gold studs and fringe and Taraji Henson fell in love with a pair of double fringe boots, the crème de la crème of boots among young Hollywood starlets like Jessica Biel and Vanessa Hudgens. Blair Underwood even scooped up a pair of boots for himself, while remarking that his wife simply adores the Peace Sign boots he picked up from Koolaburra in January for her because she wears them all the time!  Illeana Douglas promised to wear her Koolaburra’s on stage while performing with her rock band and Justine Bateman found it so hard to settle on just one pair of the in-demand Koolaburra boots that she got two! www.koolaburra.com

Carlos Falchi Evening Bags

Even the renowned international handbag designer, Carlos Falchi, was there to lend his iconic style and fashion advice by helping celebs choose the absolute perfect Red Carpet evening bag, many of which featured luxurious exotic skins. While at the Gift Lounge, Eric Roberts sweetly picked out a blue and brown small snakeskin Carlos Falchi clutch for Emma Roberts and Academy Award nominee Taraji P. Henson, who was visibly excited for the Oscars the next day, scooped up a green square Carlos Falchi clutch with jewels, mentioning that the bag always makes her outfits! Tara Riggs and Eliza Dushku both picked up one-of-a-kind python Carlos Falchi clutch bags; Tara opting for the pink and Eliza’s for the gray and white. Afterwards, Jessica Alba, who had the hardest time choosing between two python Carlos Falchi clutches, happily opted for a daring leopard print python clutch, while Mena Suvari rewarded herself with a mint green python Carlos Falchi clutch.  Surprisingly, many of the stars decided to be animal friendly and opted for the Carlos Falchi microfiber clutches, versus the more expensive cayman and python styles on display! Andie McDowell and Melissa Leo both showed their love for animals and went with the bronze microfiber purses, with Misty Upham later going for the silver microfiber. www.carlosfalchidesign.comTLC Laser Eye Center & AMO, INC.

iLASIK Procedure Performed by World Renowned TLC LASIK Surgeon Alan Berg, M.D. and a 1-Year Supply of Blink Tears: The iLASIK procedure, one of the most advanced laser vision correction procedure available today, was made available to stars at the Gift Lounge in the form of a gift certificate, delighting many.

No more dry eyes for Blair Underwood with Blink Tears.

Blair Underwood, a self-proclaimed, “eye drop addict” scooped up a certificate, as well as Bradley Cooper, who he batted his baby blue eyes playfully after stopping at Blink Tears to refresh his dry eyes. Taraji P. Henson complained that the Santa Ana winds dry her eyes out and said that she can’t wait to receive her year supply of Blink Tears, another goodie complimentary of TLC! Blink Tears are advanced eye drops that relieve dry eyes and replenish tears with every blink.  (Advanced Eyedrop that Replenishes Your Tears with Every Blink). www.TLCvision.com / www.yourhealthyeyes.com / www.iLASIK.com

CRUNCH 1-Year Gym Membership & Private AntiGravity Yoga ‘Wings’ or BodyWeb w/TRX Class for up to 8 Guests

Anthony Mackie, who portrayed Tupac Shakur in “Notorious” was overjoyed when he picked up his an annual membership to Crunch Gym at the Gift Lounge and happily commented, “I’ve worked out at Crunch in NYC and I want to go back, so this is perfect!” Furthermore, Eliza Dushku, whose man is an unmentionable NFL player, said she was more than ready and willing to work out with her man at Crunch and “Hairspray” director John Waters sarcastically shared with a laugh, “I’m the only gay man who hasn’t been to a gym. Maybe Crunch will turn me into a Gym bunny?”. The Crunch AntiGravity Yoga ‘Wings’ allow users to stretch further than ever before and hold challenging postures longer by using a flowing fabric hammock as a prop. By using the fabric as a soft trapeze, users are enabled the use of simple suspension techniques allowing them to move into seemingly impossible inverted poses, relieving compressed joints and aligning the body from head to toe. On the other hand, the BodyWeb with TRX system hangs from the durable TRX system ropes to push, pull, lift and lower the user’s body through Spiderman moves for a total body suspension workout that will also super-strengthens your core. www.crunch.com

WACOAL Shapewear and Lingerie from B.Tempt’d by Walcoal

Never to be outdone, Wacoal, the brand featuring the most coveted seamless shapewear, “Lace Yourself”, gifted celebs with a table pant set (3 tangas) from the newly launched and imaginatively pulsating intimates collection from B.tempt’d, as well as a $100 gift certificate for a special, complimentary fitting and intimates from the latest Wacoal and B.tempt’d collections. B’temped which was launched in February 2009 by Wacoal, entices the young vivacious woman to “be tempting” and express her unique style in fun and flirtatious designs, all while reveling in exceptional fit, trusted quality, and comfort.

Dana Delaney with B.Tempt'd by Wacoal

“Mad Men” star John Hamm, who loves his wife, Jennifer Westfeld in lingerie, winked and nodded to her as he asked, “Did you get some of these? Nice!”. It seems he and Dominc Monaghan of “Lost” are new fans of the new B.tempt’d by Wacoal line of lacy bras & panties. Before leaving, Monoghan asked, “Are these edible?  They look delicious!”. Find them at: www.b.temptd.com  and www.wacoal-america.com

SAKROOTS Limited Edition Eco-Friendly Weekender Tote Designed Exclusively for the Gift Lounge Featuring Signature “Peace Print” by Graffiti Artist Gilles Jourdan

Sakroots, a creative, soulful, and dynamic collection of sustainable and stylish bags introduced by The Sak, demonstrated that “peace & harmony among all things” is possible in today’s society by introducing celebs at the Gift Lounge to their products created with the use of environmentally-friendly materials, dyes and processes.  The bags from the ECO Harmony collection made from 100% bamboo string, which feature messages such as “happy & free” on them and are meant to bring merriment to each bag owner were given to celebs at the Lounge. Sandra Oh of “Grey’s Anatomy”, who selected a bag from the Sakroots new Indio crochet bamboo collection, exclaimed, “This bag is a must-have, I’m gonna rock this, it’s fabulous!”. Later when “30 Rock” star Alec Baldwin was asked who he’d like to give his Sakroots limited edition weekender tote featuring a signature “Peace” print by Graffiti artist Gilles Jourdan to, he humbly admitted “I don’t have anyone special in my life, but I wish I did.” Then, Robin Wright Penn snatched up a crocheted Sakroots Indio Tote and shared her love of Bali! “I frequent Bali quite often.  I’ve seen the hand-crochet process and it’s amazing-the work that goes into it.” Even new mom, Jessica Alba got into it- declaring that she likes her bags eco-friendly. While choosing her new Sakroots Eco Harmony Black Space Dye drawstring bag, she commented, “It’s nice to see a company who is making something that is actually good for the planet.”
www.thesak.com, www.sakroots.com

ALTOIDS SMALLS Mints:

Altoids, the tiny breath mints that “go where you go” and are apart of  The Original Celebrated Curiously Strong Altoids family of mints, were on hand to keep celebrities breath smelling lusciously fresh. Celebs were delighted to learn that the mints that they so love are now smaller, sugar-free, and available in three flavors – Peppermint, Wintergreen & Cinnamon. www.altoids.com

Promax Nutrition PURE:
PURE, the scrumptious organic snack bar that’s raw, vegan, gluten free, and contains 1 1/2 serving of fruit and nuts that topped the cake as they served delicious, healthy treats to all the attendees. www.promaxnutrition.com

On 3  fashioned the Official Ceremony Gift Bag distributed to all ceremony guests. Host, Steve Coogan, Honorary Co-Chair, Alec Baldwin, Justine Bateman, Michael Bolton,  Maria Bozzi, Joey Cassata, Steve Coogan, Bradley Cooper, and Frank Corraci were all elated to receive their very own Official Ceremony Gift Bag with top-notch goodies such as the special Film Independent Publication, Film Independent Magazine; Alacer Corp. Emergen-C, Altoids Smalls Mints, an AMC Eco-friendly Reusable Water Bottle, ELLE March Issue, GARNIER FRUCTIS Wonder Waves Enhancing Spray, a one-month supply of Glowelle Beauty Drink Dietary Supplement, an IFC Custom Designed 2009 Spirit Awards Bag, Jessie Steele Tea Towels, a tube of Maybelline New York Lash Stiletto Ultimate Length Mascara,  No Nonsense Shoe Solutions, Popchips all-natural popped potato chips, ProMax Nutrition Pure, the Robyn Hitchcock “Goodnight Oslo” CD, The Container Store Oli Sticky Notes Notebook, a $1000 Gift Certificate from TLC Laser Eye Center& Amo, Inc. toward an iLASIK procedure performed by the world renowned TLC Lasik Surgeon Alan Berg, M.D, Blink Tears, the Wahl Lithium Ion Grooming Tool, and many more amazing treats!

The talent that received their On 3 Productions organized gifts also included Kerry Washington, Elizabeth Banks, Jason Bateman, Zooey Deshanel, Teri Hatcher, Anne Hathaway, Taraji P. Henson, Emile Hirsch, Sandra Oh, Mary-Kate Olsen, Blair Underwood, Evan Rachel Wood, Bryan Cranston, Dana Delaney, Chris Donovan, Illeanna Douglas, Eliza Dushku, Chiwetel Ejiofor, John Hamilton, Teri Hatcher, Taraji P. Henson, Robyn Hitchcock, Dawn Hudson, Richards Jenkins, Rachel Lefevre, Melissa Leo, Andie MacDowell, Michelle Monaghan, Dominic Monaghan, Sandra Oh, Mary-Kate Olsen, Rosie Perez, John C. Reilly, Jeremy Renner, Giovanni Ribisi, Tarra Riggs, Eric Roberts, Mena Suvari, Jeffrey Tambor, John Waters, Michael Winchester, Robin Wright Penn, David Zablidowsky, Paul Zablidowsky, Diana Zahn, Anthony Mackie, Misty Upham, Tom Noonan, and Jon Hamm.

Film Independent is an open enrollment and non-profit membership organization that champions independent film and supports a community of artists who embody diversity, innovation, and uniqueness of vision. Film Independent helps fimmakers make their movies, builds the audience for their projects, and works to diversify the film industry. Anyone passionate about film can become a member, whether you are a filmmaker, film industry leader, or a film lover.

Spirit Award Winners

Despite worthy competition, Spirit Award winners earned their awards. The winners?

BEST FEATURE
“The Wrestler”

BEST DIRECTOR
Tom McCarthy, “The Visitor”

BEST FIRST FEATURE
“Synecdoche, New York”

JOHN CASSAVETES AWARD
“In Search of a Midnight Kiss”

BEST SCREENPLAY
Woody Allen, “Vicky Cristina Barcelona”

BEST FIRST SCREENPLAY
Dustin Lance Black, “Milk”

BEST FEMALE LEAD
Melissa Leo, “Frozen River”

BEST MALE LEAD
Mickey Rourke, “The Wrestler”

BEST SUPPORTING FEMALE
Penelope Cruz, “Vicky Cristina Barcelona”

BEST SUPPORTING MALE
James Franco, “Milk”

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY
Maryse Alberti, “The Wrester”

BEST DOCUMENTARY
“Man on Wire”

BEST FOREIGN FILM
“The Class

Consolation Gifts for the Academy Award Nominees

$55k in Consolation Swag
Distinctive Assets wants to make sure this year’s gifts were not only fabulous, but useful as well. So this year’s ’unwinning’ nominees can expect to find everything from jewelry and fashion to electronics and trips in their consolation gift bags worth over $55,000 which will include items from Hoover, Blue-ray, Premier Tours, Da Surf Hut, The A-List Playbook, Christopher Michael Chocolates, Booty Pop, Catdaddy, Diadora, Giacini Atelier, Lloyd London, Ninoosh, Perle Di Bianca, Shoshana Bean, Slimware, Huntley Drive Fitness, eyebobs, Count Me Healthy Jewelry, San Manuel Casino, Amanzi Tea, Kaadiki, Altoids, AG Hair Cosmetics, Jantzen, Toothguard Dental Instruments, Zuca, Nutrifit, Headplay, Heelarious, Robelyn Labs, Los Angeles Dodgers, Jennie & Vera’s Cookies, Leon Fine Jewelry, Natura Pet Products, Sam Charles, Janet Harris SRC, See Thru Soap, Starbucks, CoCo Glo, Wimco Villas, Tradewinds Aviation, Do Your Giving While You Are Living, Zico, Nelson Wade, LINObaby, Dunton Hot Springs, Winvian, Ecosteps, Revance Therapeutics, Champion, Lindblad Expeditions, NY & Co, Green SUB, Salon TRUE, Quirk Books, Kiwi, Pet Reiki, Niko Cosmetics, Kmart, Sears and much more!
 
This particular Gift Bag has no affiliation with A.M.P.A.S. or the Academy Awards and is being independently produced by Distinctive Assets. www.distinctiveassets.com

Best Actress Oscar nominee Kate Winslet sits down with ABC News “Nightline’s” Cynthia McFadden and shares her thoughts on her sixth nomination and how she prepared for her Oscar-nominated role in the film “The Reader”.

Winslet can currently be seen in her two incredible Golden Globe–winning performances, in “Revolutionary Road” and “The Reader”. “The Reader” could yield a long-overdue Oscar win for her. She has been nominated six times, a record for someone her age.

As part of “Nightline’s” Inside Hollywood series leading up to the Academy Awards, Ms. Winslet talks about how she prepared for her role as a Nazi prison guard, the busy awards season, and the challenge of juggling her career and motherhood.

On her nomination:

McFadden:  Nominated for the Oscar again. Sixth time’s a charm, do you think?
 
Winslet:  I can honestly say, for a start, I’m tremendously lucky that in my life I have received these nominations and got to play these extraordinary parts but I think this year more than any other year that I have been aware of it feels very, very special. 
 
McFadden:  Will you expect you’re not going to pretend you don’t want it? That you do want to win this year?
 
Winslet:  Well, I said I’d like to at some point in my life.
 
She continues:   But now it would be a feeling for me if it were to happen at some point in my life on just personal satisfaction. What an amazing feeling that would be for me to have been doing this for 15, 16 years and to now what it feels like to lose a great many times. It would be nice to know what it feels like in that situation to win sometime.
 
McFadden:  Indeed, if you don’t win this year you’re going to get a distinction all of its own. The most-nominated non-winner.
 
Winslet: The most-nominated loser, which is what I’ve been hearing people saying.  Yes, no, I don’t really want to be the most-nominated loser…
 
McFadden:  Did it hurt a little bit not to get nominated for “Revolutionary Road”?
 
Winslet:  I can’t say that — I am so genuinely happy that I have been nominated for “The Reader”. I really, really am. I mean, it was a huge turning point for me, that film, because I — when I first read the script, you know, I really thought, oh, no, no, I can’t do this. I mean, I really don’t think I’ve got the stuff to do this. I don’t have enough — I don’t have enough tools with which to play this part.
 
On her Golden Globe win:
 
McFadden:  We all know you were surprised by the second win… So when you got to the podium, unprepared we might say.
 
Winslet:  Completely unprepared. She continued:  So you win some, you lose some. I mean — the one thing that has surprised me about this thing of winning awards is that I thought that people just reviewed the films. I didn’t realize that they reviewed speeches, too. I mean, I really didn’t know that. Call me stupid but I had no idea. I don’t tend to read reviews of things but when people are reviewing a speech and being somewhat unkind about it,  well, what can you say, but no, I wasn’t prepared at all. I really didn’t think I was going to win and I was genuinely overwhelmed…
 
On Her Role as a Nazi Prison Guard:
 
McFadden:  How did you come to feel about her at the end of the day? 
 
Winslet:  I can’t say that I liked her, no. But I can say that I understood her fully…I do think it is crucial as an actor to understand the role that you’re playing, really, and to empathize with them and the choices that they do or they don’t make.

On Body Image:
 
Winslet:  I don’t know a single woman who doesn’t look at herself in the mirror before she walks out, whether it’s for a date with her husband, boyfriend, girlfriend, whatever, red carpet event… I don’t know a single woman who doesn’t stand up and check the tushie before she walks out the door and those women will go, uh. You know? Most do. I’ve decided I am going to start loving my backside, really just saying, yes. Because I don’t know anyone who does that, you know? And for my daughter I want to be able to say to her, I love this, I love this, look, my belly does this because I had you guys and this is what happens to breasts when you nurse two children. Gravity and nature takes its toll and I don’t want to be batting her away, saying, no, no, no, no, no. I don’t want to do that. I want her to say, yeah, yeah, great. No one ever did that for me. Never.

“Nightline” is anchored by Cynthia McFadden, Terry Moran, and Martin Bashir. James Goldston is the executive producer. “Nightline airs at 11:35 p.m. (ET/PT) weeknights on the ABC Television Network.

After growing up in the TV spotlight for the past eight years of her life, teen actress Taylor Atelian is saying goodbye to all she has known. At just five years old, Taylor landed the role of Ruby, the precocious and spirited daughter of Jim Belushi on the successful ABC television series “According to Jim.”  It was the first series she had ever auditioned for, and she impressively landed the role after one audition. Taylor has been awarded for her hard work on the show, receiving nominations at the 2002, 2003, 2004, and 2005 Young Artist Awards for Best Performance in a TV Series (Comedy or Drama) – Young Actress Age Ten or Under.         

Now as “According to Jim” airs its eighth and final season, Taylor is excited for what is coming up next in her career. She plans to use her dancing, acting, and singing skills in her next project, an all girl “tween” group called Pink-E-Swear. With their debut album recorded and a television pilot written, the girls are currently pitching their projects to both record labels, and select television networks. Many are calling them the next Cheetah Girls…

LAsthePlace.com got to ask Taylor some questions about what’s up in 2009…

LA’s The Place: Were you excited about season eight?

Taylor Atelian: Yes and it was really fun!

LATP: Of the whole cast, who are you the closest to?

TA: Probably Billi Bruno. She plays my little sister, and we have been close since the first day we started the show. When people who don’t know us ask if we are sisters, we say yes.

LATP: How have you grown throughout the series?

TA: It was weird growing up on camera, but it was fun. I think I have grown a lot in my acting ability as well. I am excited about what lies next.

LATP: Tell me about your girl group Pink-E-Swear. It’s already growing a buzz!

TA: We are an up and coming tween girl group and we each have our own genre of music. I am the pop girl, Sydney is the rocker, KC is the country girl, and Saige is the hip hop girl. We have recorded about 15 songs, and we have a TV show in the works. We are all really close, and good friends. I can’t wait to push this project. Check our Myspace out at www.myspace.com/pinkeswear.

Photo credit Arpit Mehta

On January 19, 2009 famous celebrity icons such as Aaron Eckhart, Alyssa Milano, Paris Hilton, Anthony Kiedis, Archie Kao, Ashlee Simpson, Brittany Snow, Bryce Dallas Howard, Courteney Cox, Dakota Fanning, David Arquette, Eva Longoria, Eva Mendes, and George Lopez all elected to show their support of the newly elected President Barak Obama by recording a pledge of service in honor of the Inauguration. The videos, presented by Myspace Celebrity and Katalyst Media, an innovative content production company created by Ashton Kutcher and Jason Goldberg, both document moving portrayals of how each celebrity intends to assist in the countrywide change that was so pivotal in Obama’s campaign and expresses personal, emotive, and sometimes humorous ways in which the entertainment world plans to give back.

As many more prominent industry names such as Gina Gershon, Hart Bochner, Hayden Panetierre, Hill Harper, Nick Cannon, Ioan Gruffudd, Jaime Pressley, Jason Bateman, Jenna Elfman, Joel Madden, Joel Schumacher, John Singleton, Josh Groban, Julia Ormond, Kat Dennings, Kenna, Kerry Washington, Kevin Connolly, Kevin Zegers, Laura Linney, Lucy Liu, Marissa Tomei, Matt Dallas, Melissa Leo, Michael Strahan, and Michelle Trachtenberg enlisted to be a part of the production, Ashton Kutcher proudly proclaimed, “We are honored to be working with MySpace to rally the entertainment industry to answer President-elect Barack Obama’s call to service”. He then added, “The Presidential Pledge is a platform for people across the nation and throughout the world to make a first person commitment of service to our new President, articulating a specific intent or action to become an agent of positive change”.

With Demi Moore serving as director, the videos are nothing short of inspirational, which is exactly as both Moore and Katalyst Media intended. They hope that through the public presentation of the videos through MySpace Celebrity, others will be motivated to post a comment or record and upload their own Presidential Pledge on MySpace to join the heartfelt videos from Molly Sims, Nicole Richie, Rex Lee, Rhona Mitra, Rita Wilson, Rumer Willis, Sarah Wayne Callies, Sean P. “Diddy” Combs, Ashley Judd, Shohreh Aghdashloo, Soleil Moon Frye, Sophia Bush, Tatyana Ali, and Tobey Maguire.

Chris DeWolfe, CEO and Co-Founder of MySpace stated, “Ashton and Demi’s commitment is truly inspiring as are the moving pledges that cultural icons and everyday Americans will deliver to support President Obama. MySpace has always offered a platform for people looking to make a positive difference in the world, and we’re thrilled to partner with Katalyst on this landmark initiative”. These exclusive, personal, and stirring videos can be found on MySpace Celebrity beginning Monday, January 19th.

Myspace users can join in on the movement by uploading their pledge videos using the following instructions:

Use your computer camera to record your own pledge. Upload the video to your profile, then copy the embedded code that is provided. Go to www.myspace.com/presidentialpledge and head to the “Comments” section, towards the bottom of the page. Click on “Add comment” and paste the embed code in the space provided.
Click “Post a comment” to officially become part of the world changing movement!

For more information and to view the exclusive Myspace pledges visit www.celebrity.myspace.com or the official Presidential Pledge profile page at www.myspace.com/presidentialpledge.

MySpace Celebrity is a worldwide community that spotlights Hollywood news, content, culture, and events. It is become one of the internet’s most premiere places for celebrities to personally connect directly with their fan base, control their image, and promote, assist, and raise awareness for their passion projects and unique causes. Over 600 celebrities are presently featured within the channel across all facets of Entertainment and include filmmakers, actors, actresses, and musicians. www.celebrity.myspace.com

MySpace is the leading lifestyle gateway to connecting with friends, discovering popular culture, and making a positive impact globally. MySpace, which is a Fox Interactive Media Inc. subsidiary, has succeeded in creating a connected global community by actively combining Internet profiles, blogs, instant messaging, e-mail, music streaming, music videos, photo galleries, classified listings, events, groups, college communities, and member forums. MySpace even boasts an international network, including over 30 localized community sites, in the United States, Brazil, Canada, Latin America, Mexico, Austria, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Australia, India, Japan, and New Zealand. Fox Interactive Media is a division of News Corp. www.myspace.com

Katalyst Media is an original content production company based in both Los Angeles and New York that is focused on creating Digital Media, Television and Film properties. Katalyst Media’s mission is to create provocative, thought provoking, and stimulating content for multiple platforms. Since it’s foundation in 2005 by partners, Ashton Kutcher and Jason Goldberg, Katalyst film credits have branched out to include “The Butterfly Effect”, “Guess Who”, and the forthcoming feature film “Spread”. Television credits include the hit series “Punk’d”, “Beauty and the Geek”, and the upcoming productions “True Beauty” for ABC and “Game Show in my Head” for CBS. Digital Media properties include the Blah Girls (www.blahgirls.com) and the approaching reality series KatalystHQ.

Photos courtesy of MySpace Celebrity.

It was a truly a majestic, fun-filled affair sparkling with stars this past weekend, January 9-10, 2009, at the 3rd Annual Access Hollywood “Stuff You Must…” Gift Lounge. Access Hollywood collaborated with On 3 Productions, a leader in celebrity gifting, for the event, which was held within the elite Beverly Ballroom of the Sofite LA Hotel. CVS/pharmacy even made a generous contribution to “Best Buddies”, an organization committed to enriching the lives of people with intellectual disabilities, and “Lollipop Theater Network”, a non-profit that brings the wonder and amusement of movies currently in theaters to children nationwide who are hospitalized resulting from life-threatening illness.For every star that stopped by, a donation was made, and a check, which was graciously accepted by “High School Musical 3” star Vanessa Hudgens, “Twilight” star Taylor Lautner, and Access Hollywood hosts Nancy O’Dell and Billy Bush, making this $100k earning event an extra “out of the ordinary” gift lounge.

Selena Gomez (Wizards of Waverly Place), Robert Buckley (Lipstick Jungle), Tom Wllkinson (John Adams), Sally Hawkins (Happy Go Lucky), Sophia Bush (One Tree Hill), Jack McBrayer (30 Rock), Neal McDonough (Desperate Housewives), Jaime King (The Tudors), Rachelle LeFevre (Twilight), Madeleine Martin (Californication), and Julie Benz, Jennifer Carpenter, and C.S. Lee of “Dexter”, were just of few of the famous faces there to take advantage of the massive assortment of special goodies compiled specifically for their pleasure.

“Bertolli Oven Baked Meals” really got things cooking by serving their scrumptious, mouth-watering lasagna and ravioli to celebrities such as AnnaLynn McCord (90210), the Southern beauty who spoke of being a laidback Zodiac Cancer as she eagerly demolished two whole plates of Bertolli lasagna, Taylor Lautner (Twilight), who adorably flexed his new muscles with Ross “The Intern” Mathews for admiring fans as they both chomped down on a steaming plate of Bertolli ravioli, and Vannessa Hudgens, who enthusiastically ditched her all almond diet to sample two plates of Bertolli lasagna and share in the food and the fun. While “Dancing with the Stars” judge, Carrie Ann Inaba, polished off her ravioli and licked clean her plate, actress Kimberly Elise enjoyed her own delicious portion and then bashfully admitted to Ross “The Intern” Matthews, who hosted the suite and interviewed the stars, that she often passes off Bertolli’s Oven Bake Meals as her own cooking to fool her boyfriend and kids. Actor Blair Underwood even said that after the Golden Globes, he definitely plans to break his yearly master cleanse with Bertolli Oven Bake Meals. Later, Ross “The Intern” Matthews (Tonight Show regular) and Jack McBrayer (Kenneth the Page from “30 Rock”) conversed about working for two of NBC’s hottest shows and life in general all over a plate of piping hot Bertolli lasagna. Celebrities were allowed to lounge in a cozy Bertolli living Room, walk away with a year’s supply of Bertolli Oven Baked Meals, and the hottest new universal touch-screen remote control, making Bertolli’s presence at the “Stuff You Must…” Gift Lounge undeniably one of the most tasteful. www.villabertolli.com

Furthermore, as hard as it may be to believe that this event could get any better, it undoubtedly did as stars were pampered and made even more beautiful at the CVS/pharmacy “Reinventing Beauty Bar”. Celebrity makeup artist, Laura Geller, was there on hand to give young and fabulous Selena Gomez and Rumer Willis fun, uplifting makeovers at the Beauty 360 Prestige Suite, from Beauty 360, CVS/pharmacy’s new chic shopping hotspot for prestigious beauties. Good friend of Fergie, Stacy Kiebler, stopped in at the “Reinventing Beauty Bar” to have Cristophe create and style her in a marvelous, new updo for Fergie and Josh Duhamel’s Saturday wedding.

James Kyson Lee of “Heroes” dropped by the hit beauty destination to receive a relaxing facial with Scott-Vincent Borba at the Beauty 360 Prestige Suite, while newlywed “Dexter” star Jennifer Carpenter accepted a super special trim and blow-out from celebrity stylist Cristophe. The “Reinventing Beauty Bar” also featured featuring blowouts, relaxing aromatherapy treatments by trained massage therapists, and facial consultations with celebrity esthetician Scott-Vincent Borba. www.cvs.com, www.beauty360.com

PureVia, the all-natural zero calorie sweetener, was served into steaming hot coffee for celebs at the “PureVia Coffee Bar” as they were asked, “If you could have coffee with any person, dead or alive, who would it be?”. Mark Moses (Mad Men) instantly replied, “Barack Obama, he is a fascinating man and I’m hopeful for 2009″, Chi McBride (Pushing Daisies) said, “My Uncle Raymond, he passed away in 1972, he was the best, and I named my son after him”, Taylor Lautner said, “My father”, Selena Gomez said, “Meryl Streep, she’s my idol. So either her or God”, Maureen MacCormack replied, “My husband, we have coffee every mornings at 5:30am, it’s our thing”, and James Kyson Lee (Heroes) said, “Teddy Roosevelt”. Later, Blair Underwood replied, “Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King, Jr”, Kelly Hu (The Tournament) replied, “Jesus, I’d want to pick his brain”, Carrie Ann Inaba (Dancing with the Stars) immediately replied, “Eartha Kitt, after the coffee then we’d go for drinks”, Shailene Woodley (Secret Life of an American Teenager) said, “Barack Obama, I’d tell him what we need”, and Joy Lauren (Desperate Housewives) replied, “I’d want to have High Tea with Queen Elizabeth”. www.purevia.com

A few lucky celebrities got the chance to personally choose from the newest collection of Genuine Australian Sheepskin Boots from Koolaburra. Vanessa Hudgens, who’s already been spotted in her lovely Koolaburra fringe boots, selected Koolaburra’s brand new peace dove design in chestnut and gushed, “I absolutely live in my Koolaburra fringe boots. These are so soft, I can’t wait. You will see me in these too.” Kevin Sorbo selected a pair of size 13 Koolaburra nautical star boots and exclaimed, “Last time I got a pair for my wife. Guess it’s time I get some for myself!” Greg German of “Bolt” stated, “I am a plain-Jane sort of guy”, and then asked, “What do you have that’s plain?” After a moment of debate, he chose the black Koolaburra Valhalla boot with a Vibram sole. Nancy Lenehan (Worst Week) chose a beautiful pair of fringe boots in black and said, “There’s something so fun about how they move” as she playfully twisted her foot back and forth. “I was just in Arizona and it was so cold. These will be fantastic.” Jennifer Carpenter of “Dexter” immediately said, “Fringe, man” as she skimmed over the new line, referring to her new Koolaburra boots. Rachelle Lefevre of “Twilight” said, “These are so comfy! Plus they’re shiny, which gets me every time…I’m like a magpie”. Upon first sight, she wanted the crown boots as she proudly displayed her crown tattoo on her forearm but then after some deliberation she too decided on the Koolaburra peace down. www.koolaburra.com

There was even something there for the eco-friendly celebrities. Passchal purses and briefcases, which are gorgeous, unique bags made from recycled Tractor inner tubes, were a huge hit at the 3rd Annual Access Hollywood “Stuff You Must…” Gift Lounge. “Hercules” star Kevin Sorbo spoke on growing up and river tubing as he selected out a sleek Passchal messenger-style bag, complete with a light inside! The “Worst Week” stars, Erin Hayes and Nancy Lenehan, both selected the same bag despite being at the booth at totally different times. It seems their “Worst Week” was turned into a “Good Week”! www.passchal.com

Celebrities then ascended on Keurig’s newest single cup Premium Coffee System. “Worst Week” star Nancy Lenehan said that there was a Keurig machine on set and that she’s super excited to now have a machine of her very own. “High School Musical” star Vannessa Hudgens dished about being excited to put a Keurig machine in the kitchen of her new house, while Jennifer Carpenter was excited to have a new Keurig machine in her kitchen that’s being remodeled. Kevin Sorbo, a huge coffee lover, even said that the new Keurig machine is the greatest thing in the world. www.keurig.com

Jennifer Carpenter, who was obviously high off her “newlywed love” Michael C. Hall, enlisted the help of “ProFlowers” to send her mother two dozen fresh, beautiful red roses from the happy couple for Valentine’s Day. Vannessa Hudgens decided that flowers would be a tad bit too feminine for her boyfriend Zac Efron, and opted to send a special ProFlowers arrangement to her Mom instead! When asked about placing his own Valentine’s Day order, Robert Buckley of “Lipstick Jungle” played the lonely guy role and said, “I have no one to send one to”. Like Jennifer Carpenter, Selena Gomez also opted to send red roses and Cala Lily sent an ultra-seductive bouquet to a “mystery lover” on her set at Hollywood Center Studios. Christian Siriano jokingly said, “I feel fierce and Cinderella-like”, as he crouched down between the ProFlowers fresh-flowers display, while “Pushing Daisies” star Chi McBride, picked out a pretty ProFlowers bouquet of none of than daisies! The fun was really on at Proflowers when Carrie Ann Inaba decided to let loose and do an artsy high-kick with a long-stem rose between her teeth during a mock Tango and Adam Carolla humorously sent BFF Jimmy Kimmel a bouquet with a note that read: “To 15 more years with my gay bear lover! -Love, Ace!”. www.proflowers.com

Next, “Twilight” star Rachel LeFevre tapped into some tranquility while creating her own Zen-like work of art on the “Buddha Board”, while her boyfriend, Jamie King of “Tudors” went crazily painted on the Buddha Board and whispered to passerbys, “I’m already a painter and this really helps me detach”. They then both cheerfully shouted in unison “The couple that Buddha Boards together, stays together!” www.buddhaboard.com

Even more amazing, exclusive AMC Signature Passes for 1 Year of Free Movies for 2 people were also available at the gift suite and as you can imagine, they were immediately eagerly snatched up. Blair Underwood was absolutely ecstatic to receive his annual AMC pass and said he’s saddened by the possible ending of “Dirty Sexy Money” but encouraged fans of the show to write in to ABC. Kevin Sorbo stated, “I’m good friends with Brad Pitt. Since I have 3 kids I only get to see Disney films. I’m going to use this card to take my wife on a date to see Brad in “Benjamin Button” and Stacy Kiebler (Dancing with the Stars) was also thrilled to receive her new movie pass from AMC! Carrie Ann Inaba said the “AMC pass is the best gift of the suite, this really makes me feel like a celebrity”, while Joy Lauren (Desperate Housewives) who admittedly goes to the movies 3 times a week said, “This is a crazy, awesome gift”. www.amctheatres.com

To her delight, Jennifer Carpenter of “Dexter” was elated to be able to finally replace her 1980’s clock radio iHome wireless, yet another popular vendor at the gifting lounge. Vannessa Hudgens feared the iHome would ” make me so lazy, I won’t get out of bed”, but still appreciated it’s ingenuity. Julie Benz of “Dexter” is totally juiced about fiddling with her new iHome Hidro –Fi shower to shore unit, a water resistant case/speakers for the iPod that can be used in the shower and she’s already made plans to use hers in her steam room. Ross “The Intern” Mathews said “meet my new significant other, this is the closest thing to a relationship I’ve had in a long time” as he held up the iHome Wireless iP9 unit and “Californication” star Evan Handler laughed and threatened to take off his clothes while holding up the Hidro-Fi unit that he intends to put to good use while singing in the shower. Robert Buckley, a self-professed electronics junkie stated, “I’m in a world of wonder,” as he gazed at all the iHome products on display. www.ihomeaudio.com

Later, Carrie Ann Inaba chose the newest AquaSwiss Diablo style watch, a watch that creatively twists 360 degrees to expose two different faces, at the AquaSwiss booth and Blair Underwood handsomely strapped on the new AquaSwiss Diablo with diamonds, which he plans to wear to the Inauguration of Barack Obama. Cloris Leachman (Dancing with the Stars) choose the same style watch as Carrie Ann Inaba and declared, “Maybe if we had the same watch she would have given me a 10″. However, Christian Siriano refused to be appeased and he desired the very same AquaSwiss watch owned by Heidi Klum.
Website: www.aquaswisswatch.com

Then, at the Habitual Jeans station, Carrie Ann Inaba nearly squealed with delight as she exclaimed, “I love these jeans, the skinnies make my butt look so good”. Samaire Armstrong absolutely loved her Habitual skinny jeans as well, while real-life transsexual co-star Candis Cayne couldn’t decide on whether to go for the men’s or the women’s Habitual styles. Rachelle LeFevre proclaimed, “I live in denim”, and promptly scooped up a couple Habitual skinny jeans and denim shorts and Vannessa Hudgens promised to let the paparazzi know her favorite brand of jeans as she scooped up six pairs. The stars loved their jeans so much that “One Tree Hill” star Sophia Bush is expected to walk down a red carpet rocking her new Habitual denim deck shorts soon. www.habitual.com

It seemed that nothing was neglected at the 3rd Annual Access Hollywood “Stuff You Must…” Gift Lounge, including healthy teeth as many a celebrity such as Vannessa Hudgens, Maureen MacCormack, and Blair Underwood all pocketed a year’s supply of Arm & Hammer’s Advance White to keep their smiles shiny and white. When asked what made him smile Kevin Sorbo stated, “My 3-year old makes me smile”, while Candis Cayne said, “Good friends keep me smiling”. Unexpectedly, Samaire Armstrong credited his amazing smile to “[His] dog Boogie”. www.myoralcare.com

To lighten up the mood, Palm Bay International provided a few fun, fizzy cocktails such as the Aperol and Ferrari to celebs as they perused the Access Hollywood “Stuff You Must…” Gift Lounge. Tichina Arnold of “Everybody Hates Chris” said that she thoroughly enjoyed the Ferrari sparkling wine and fully intends to serve it at a dear friends upcoming birthday. As Nancy Lenahan of “Worst Week” sipped on her Aperol cocktail, she contentedly stated, “The tiny bubbles are delightful”. www.palmbay.com

Soon after they got the bubblies in their system, no one could resist checking out the Mikey Stars collection. Jennifer Carpenter even sparked some baby rumors as she requested some gender-neutral onesies and t-shirts. Access Hollywood host Nancy O’Dell picked out a couple items from the Mikey Stars new line of leggings and dresses for her daughter Ashby Grace, while her co-host Billy Bush, chose onesies for his friend Scott Wolf’s expectant son. Evan Handler of “Californication” snapped up a few purple dress and hot pink Mikey Stars leggings for his one and a half year old daughter and Erinn Hayes of “Worst Week” couldn’t resist taking a pair the Mikey Stars purple pocket pants for her toddler. Although, Vannessa Hudgens wasn’t interested in the kid’s clothes, she did place a special order for Michael Stars tees stating, “I live in them when I’m on tour”. www.michaelstars.com

Afterward, Carrie Ann Inaba exclaimed, “I love “green art”, when she saw the Junk mail Mosaic Portraits A S Schimmel, and couldn’t wait to see herself in her junk mail. Vannessa Hudgens planned to fill her new house with art and even picked out an awesome, lovely piece for her boyfriend Zac. Candis Cayne of “Dirty Sexy Money” said, “I have a very sexy photo that I’d love to see transformed into art that I can hang in my home”, while Kimberly Elise stared at the portraits on display gushed, “Who does this, you’re a genius”. www.schimmelart.com

Soon after, “Twilight” star Rachelle LeFevre picked up the new Blackberry Pearl flip exclusively on T-Mobile at the BlackBerry booth and said that when she switches over to BlackBerry her friends will all stop teasing her, since she can barely text on her current phone. www.na.blackberry.com

Not to be outshined, Glamour Campaign, known for their remarkable Swarovski crystal-encrusted pieces, begin outfitting celebs such as Josh Gomez of “Chuck”, who picked out a Glamour Campaign blazer with Swarovski crystal skulls. Tachina Arnold of “Everybody Hates Chris” loved all the funky blazers and picked out a limited edition Travis Walker by Glamour Campaign with crystal skull and custom silk lining. www.glamourcampaign.com

“Dexter” star Jennifer Carpenter loved showing off her new sparkling diamond ring compliments of D’Annunzio Fine Jewelry. The newlywed said this is the first significant piece of diamond jewelry she’s ever owned! She looks forward to passing this gorgeous sparkler on to her daughter someday. It was recently confirmed that Jennifer married her “Dexter” co-star outdoors in Big Sur California on New Year’s Eve.

Access Hollywood is an entertainment newsmagazine that provides viewers with all the latest and updated showbiz news, deep, in-depth celebrity interviews, and behind-the-scenes accounts of the most important events in Hollywood. www.accesshollywood.com

Sofitel LA is an Accor hotel boasting 295 newly renovated guest rooms, many of which have fantastic views of the legendary Hollywood sign.
Website: www.sofitella.com

Best Buddies is a non-profit dedicated to enriching and enhancing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities by providing unique opportunities for one-on-one friendships and integrated employment. www.bestbuddies.org

The Lollipop Theater Network is a charity that brings the wonder of current movies in theaters to children hospitalized nationwide who can’t see them due to life-threatening illnesses. www.lollipoptheater.org

On 3 Productions is the ultimate, driving force behind the introduction and popularity of celebrity gifting.
Website: www.on3productions.com

Other Sponsors at the 3rd Annual Access Hollywood “Stuff You Must…” Gift Lounge:
ALTOIDS Small Mints ww.altoids.com

CARLOS FALCHI One-Of-A-Kind Evening Clutches www.carlosfalchistudio.com

Websites: www.thecorsagecollection.com, www.natasha.com, www.tweetyfinejewelry.com

Crunch Fitness 1-Year Gym Membership www.crunch.com

Now with a resume chockfull of creative roles such as the lead of “Lynda” in Rob Zombie’s remake of “Halloween” and appearances on TV shows like “Law & Order,” “Law & Order: SVU” and “Rescue Me,” Klebe is making a splash in Hollywood. Up next, Klebe plays Isabella Rossellini’s daughter, “Katerina Bollenbecker” in the upcoming feature film “The Accidental Husband,” directed by Griffin Dunne, starring Uma Thurman and Colin Firth. Currently, Klebe will soon be on her way to attend the 2009 Sundance Film Festival for her supporting role in the film “Peter and Vandy” starring Jason Ritter.

Before she leaves for Sundance, we got a chance to get to know her better… Check it out!

LA’s The Place: Tell us about your past work with M. Night Shyamalan and Spike Lee.
Kristina Klebe: Spike Lee directed the first feature movie I was in. I auditioned for a
German role and he loved my tape so much that he never looked at any others-it was a very small role however and everything was improvised. I got to the set and waited around and waited around. Then I had lunch with Q Tip and a bunch of other actors in the movie. Then I waited around again. I was chatting it up with Woody Harrelson in the makeup trailer and learned something about ‘vaporizing’ which I still, to this day, don’t quite understand. This went on for a few days until I finally realized they had cut my scene out and it seemed like I was just going to be a featured office worker who had
a German accent (smiles). I got a lot of working days though and got to make friends with a many of the other actors. On the last day of shooting, Spike actually gave me a hug, so I’m figuring he either really liked me or he felt sorry that he had cut out all my more meaty stuff! In the final movie, I’m barely in it at all. It was my first taste of filmmaking reality and a bit disappointing. But he likes to work with the same actors, so there could always be a second chance!

M. Night directed a commercial I was in. He was a very organized and serious director, but he seemed gentle as well. I had less interaction with him because it was such a quick shoot with so many people. I did, however, befriend his cinematographer, Christopher Doyle, who I later found out was Won Kar Wai’s cinematographer for many years and shot one of my favorite movies, “In the Mood for Love.” He’s an incredibly fascinating man. Often when the role is small, the experience on the set and meeting people is what you get out of a shoot. Watching and learning is just as much a part of the process.

LATP: You have lived everywhere it seems! Which do you prefer NYC or LA? Why?
KK: I prefer New York, no question. I’m a New Yorker. I was born in Manhattan. I’m straightforward and expect people to be the same with me. I don’t tell people something’s great when it’s not. I expect others to do the same to me. Unfortunately I have a very hard time reading people in LA because my natural tendency is to trust that people are being straightforward but I think straightforward has another definition in LA… The thing I do like about LA are the mountains, the beaches- I love hiking. And, obviously there are a lot of opportunities for work out here.

LATP: How did you feel when you found out that you had landed a lead role as Lynda in Rob Zombie’s remake of “Halloween”?
KK: I didn’t quite know what to think actually. Because, believe it or not, I didn’t know anything about the Halloween series. Yes, the fans know this! I’ve made up for it by watching all the Halloween movies among other countless horror movies since then.
Actually the first thing I thought was that it was a C or D Indie horror movie. So I joked with a friend and said ‘guess what, I just got cast in a horror movie- don’t hold it against me.’ He was like, ‘what horror movie?’ I said Rob Zombie’s Halloween -still not putting the connection that Rob Zombie was from the band White Zombie- I just thought he had a name appropriate for a horror director. My friend nearly fell out of his seat. He was like ‘what?! Rob Zombie’s Halloween?!’ He informed me that Malcolm McDowell was playing the lead and that it was going to be a huge movie and that before I embarrassed myself again I should go do some research. Well, then of course I freaked out! And after that, I even found out that Rob had gone to bat for me against the producers who actually wanted a bigger name for the role. So, I am really indebted to Rob. Things in life happen in such a strange way. I never would have thought I’d do horror movies, having never been allowed to watch them growing up. But working on Halloween was amazing.
It’s probably one of the best experiences of my life. Rob put together such a talented and fantastic cast – the crew – everyone was great. No egos.

LATP: Around the same time, you were also cast as Isabella Rossellini’s daughter, Katerina Bollenbecker in the upcoming feature film “The Accidental Husband,” directed by Griffin Dunne, starring Uma Thurman and Colin Firth. What was that experience like for you?
KK: It was great working with Griffin, Uma and Isabella. Griffin is a fantastically funny guy and very intelligent. The story about booking that job is funny. I heard they wanted a German speaking American – no accent though. So I thought well, I’ll bring my mother to the audition so that they actually believe that I speak German. Of course this is a total faux pas but I didn’t care. I had been told one too many times that I wasn’t German enough by casting directors. So I brought my mom. Next thing I know they ask my mom to audition and they ask her if my dad is a good looking guy? And next thing I know HE has an audition. Long story short, they got cast as featured extras and I got cast as Isabella Rossellini’s daughter. So my parents and I are immortalized in a movie together. Not many people can say that.

LATP: You are going to Sundance! Are you excited about the film “Peter and Vandy” premiering?
KK: I’m extremely excited about “Peter and Vandy.” I hope it wins the Dramatic Competition.

LATP: We’re told you have a director’s itch. Do you plan to direct much professionally in the future?
KK: I’m currently producing and directing a documentary but I lack the funds right now to finish it as I’d like. I’m also starting to direct music videos which I’m really excited about. You can check out a pitch of mine if you go to my myspace page www.myspace.com/kristinaklebe and click on the Low V Diamond competition. I’m also hoping to direct a music video for my friends ‘The Frail’ and perhaps some others…

To see more about Kristina Klebe go to: www.imdb.com/name/nm1640351 and www.myspace.com/kristinaklebe.

“Slumdog Millionaire” ruled the night. The low budget film with subtitles and no stars pulled in 5 awards for Best Picture, Best Director (Danny Boyle), Best Writer (Simon Beaufoy), Best Young Actress (Dev Patel) and Best Composer (A.R. Rahman). The film also won the People’s Choice Award at the Toronto Film Festival.

Although Heath Ledger is gone, his legacy of brilliant work sustains as he won Best Supporting Actor for The Dark Knight. This was a first, as it is the first posthumous win in the award show’s history. He is said to be the favorite to win the Golden Globe on Monday.

Diane Lane presented Richard Gere with the Joel Siegel Award, which honors members of the film community whose work on and off screen contributes to the good of humanity.

He acknowleged it wasn’t only for him. “I’m very clear about that. I’m happy that this highlights people on the ground who do civil rights work.” Asked about his thoughts on the Barack Obama’s inauguration, Gere explained that he won’t attend the festivities because he “doesn’t like crowds. But I’ll be watching on the TV. It’s an extraordinary moment for all of us. We actually elected two real people who are just like us, after eight years of aliens.”

Immediately after the show, the stars made their way over to the 14th Annual Critic’s Choice Awards afterparty at the Viceroy Hotel in Santa Monica.

Photos by Greg Tidwell.

UPP Entertainment Marketing produced the excellent official afterparty at the Viceroy Hotel in Santa Monica. UPP has been doing business since 1978, and is the original product placement company! www.UPP.net

Critic’s Choice Awards nominees and winners:

BEST PICTURE
Winner: Slumdog Millionaire

Nominees:
• Changeling
• The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
• The Dark Knight
• Doubt
• Frost/Nixon
• Milk
• The Reader
• Slumdog Millionaire
• Wall-E
• The Wrestler

BEST ACTOR
Winner: Sean Penn – Milk

Nominees:
• Clint Eastwood – Gran Torino
• Richard Jenkins – The Visitor
• Frank Langella – Frost/Nixon
• Sean Penn – Milk
• Brad Pitt – The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
• Mickey Rourke – The Wrestler

BEST ACTRESS
Winner: Tie: Anne Hathaway – Rachel Getting Married | Meryl Streep – Doubt

Nominees:
• Kate Beckinsale – Nothing But the Truth
• Cate Blanchett – The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
• Anne Hathaway – Rachel Getting Married
• Angelina Jolie – Changeling
• Melissa Leo – Frozen River
• Meryl Streep – Doubt

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR
Winner: Heath Ledger – The Dark Knight

Nominees:
• Josh Brolin – Milk
• Robert Downey, Jr. – Tropic Thunder
• Philip Seymour Hoffman – Doubt
• Heath Ledger – The Dark Knight
• James Franco – Milk

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS
Winner: Kate Winslet – The Reader

Nominees:
• Penelope Cruz – Vicky Cristina Barcelona
• Viola Davis – Doubt
• Vera Farmiga – Nothing But the Truth
• Taraji P. Henson – The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
• Marisa Tomei – The Wrestler
• Kate Winslet – The Reader

BEST ACTING ENSEMBLE
Winner: Milk

Nominees:
• The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
• The Dark Knight
• Doubt
• Milk
• Rachel Getting Married

BEST DIRECTOR
Winner: Danny Boyle – Slumdog Millionaire
Nominees:
• Danny Boyle – Slumdog Millionaire
• David Fincher – The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
• Ron Howard – Frost/Nixon
• Christopher Nolan – The Dark Knight
• Gus Van Sant – Milk

BEST WRITER (Original or Adapted Screenplay)
Winner: Simon Beaufoy – Slumdog Millionaire

Nominees:
• Simon Beaufoy – Slumdog Millionaire
• Dustin Lance Black – Milk
• Peter Morgan – Frost/Nixon
• Eric Roth – The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
• John Patrick Shanley – Doubt

BEST ANIMATED FEATURE
Winner: WALL-E
Nominees:
• Bolt
• Kung Fu Panda
• Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa
• Wall-E
• Waltz With Bashir

BEST YOUNG ACTOR/ACTRESS (Under 21)
Winner: Dev Patel – Slumdog Millionaire

Nominees:
• Dakota Fanning – The Secret Life of Bees
• David Kross – The Reader
• Dev Patel – Slumdog Millionaire
• Brandon Walters – Australia

BEST ACTION MOVIE
Winner: The Dark Knight
Nominees:
• The Dark Knight
• Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
• Iron Man
• Quantum of Solace
• Wanted

BEST COMEDY MOVIE
Winner: Tropic Thunder

Nominees:
• Burn After Reading
• Forgetting Sarah Marshall
• Role Models
• Tropic Thunder
• Vicky Cristina Barcelona

BEST PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION
Winner: John Adams
Nominees:
• John Adams
• Recount
• Coco Chanel

BEST FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILM
Winner: Waltz With Bashir

Nominees:
• A Christmas Tale
• Gomorrah
• I’ve Loved You So Long
• Let the Right One In
• Mongol
• Waltz With Bashir

BEST DOCUMENTARY FEATURE
Winner: Man On Wire

Nominees:
• I.O.U.S.A.
• Man On Wire
• Roman Polanski: Wanted and Desired
• Standard Operating Procedure
• Young At Heart

BEST SONG
Winner: “The Wrestler” (performed by Bruce Springsteen, written by Bruce Springsteen) – The Wrestler

Nominees:
• “Another Way to Die” (performed by Jack White and Alicia Keys, written by Jack White) – Quantum of Solace
• “Down to Earth” (performed by Peter Gabriel, written by Peter Gabriel and Thomas Newman) – Wall-E
• “I Thought I Lost You” (performed Miley Cyrus and John Travolta, written by Miley Cyrus and Jeffrey Steele) – Bolt
• “Jaiho” (performed by Sukhwinder Singh, written by A.R. Rahman and Gulzar) – Slumdog Millionaire
• “The Wrestler” (performed by Bruce Springsteen, written by Bruce Springsteen) – The Wrestler

BEST COMPOSER
Winner: A.R. Rahman – Slumdog Millionaire

Nominees:
• Alexandre Desplat – The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
• Clint Eastwood – Changeling
• Danny Elfman – Milk
• Hans Zimmer/James Newton Howard – The Dark Knight
• A.R. Rahman – Slumdog Millionaire

Liz Adams, a pioneer in the world of  “women in horror“, is finding much success with her new short film titled SIDE EFFECT, which is affecting horror fans around the world. Never shying away from deep psychological suspense or gory money shots, writer/director Adams admits that she is a true horror junkie who loves to shock her audiences.

Set in a world where the pressure to perform is at an all time high, and everyone seems to be on some kind of medication, Adams’ SIDE EFFECT poses the question, ‘What if EVIL were a side effect?

A recent participant in AFI’s prestigious Directing Workshop for Women, Liz Adams is forging her own path as a maverick female director working in the male dominated horror genre. Adams’ hit horror festival flick SIDE EFFECT most recently screened at the New York City Horror Film Festival and at the Denver International Film Festival to rave reviews after winning the Pretty/Scary Award for Excellence in Horror Filmmaking at the 8th Annual SHRIEKFEST Film Festival in Hollywood.

With a multitude of international film festival screenings on the calendar, SIDE EFFECT has already garnered the Best Screenplay Award at the Chicago Horror Film Festival, Best Short at Germany’s Oldendburg Film Festival and the coveted chainsaw statuette in the Cutting Edge Short Film Competition at the Dead by Dawn Film Festival in Edinburgh, Scotland.

SIDE EFFECT is the first act of Adams’ upcoming full-length feature film BLOOD LEVEL, is which is ramping up pre-production.

LA’s The Place:  Hi Liz, thanks for chatting with us today. Your short film SIDE EFFECT has been making noise at all kinds of film festivals especially in the horror genre. I must say, the film is pretty intense and horrific in a non-traditional and conventional way. How did SIDE EFFECT come about?

Liz Adams:  The script for the short film SIDE EFFECT is the first ten pages of a feature length script called BLOOD LEVEL, which I have written. The project was further developed and then shot during the AFI’s Directing Workshop for Women.  SIDE EFFECT was inspired by some research I did on the side effects of SSRI anti-depressants and other medications that are being given to kids. I came across a side effect called “homicidal ideation” – where certain drugs have been linked to both homicidal and suicidal impulses in a small amount of people who had taken the medications. As a storyteller that’s a tidbit that I really wanted to explore. To me a side effect called homicidal ideation is “true horror” – the idea that a pill could cause the kind of chemical imbalance that would make a sane person murder. That lead me to the question, what if evil didn’t come from some unseen world of devils, ghosts or demons, but instead there was a scientific formula for it. What if evil came in a pill?

LATP:  Why horror?

LA:  As a fan of the horror genre, I have always been fascinated by the way horror reflects back the collective nightmares of a society, and how the changing subject matter of what is considered horror mirrors the changing fears and worries of a culture.  Horror subjects range in themes from nuclear accidents that create monsters, to the threat of a fifty-foot woman, to brain eating zombies that could describe a culture eating itself.    Despite all the positive things that science has done to benefit humanity, there is still a deep distrust of the pharmaceutical industry and I think this is represented in the sub-genre that SIDE EFFECT falls into – “science gone wrong”.

LATP: You went through AFI’s Directing Workshop for Women. It’s quite an accomplishment to be accepted to such a hugely competitive program. What do you believe sets your skills apart from other female directors out there?

LA: Participating in AFI’s Directing Workshop for Women was a huge honor and a privilege for me. I’m not sure why they chose me from such a large pool of applicants. I think that the ideas in the script interested them. I also think that they like to have a diverse group of women in the program. My guess is that my background as an entrepreneur brought some diversity as well as the subject matter of my film.  There isn’t that many women horror directors out there, this may have played a part in my selection.

LATP: Who are your favorite directors that you count as your heroes?

LA: There are so many… I’m going to stick to my horror influences here. My favorite horror movies are George Romero’s NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD & DAWN OF THE DEAD,  Kubrick’s THE SHINING, Polanski’s ROSEMARY’S BABY, DePalma’s CARRIE, and Wes Craven’s NIGHMARE ON ELMSTREET. In my opinion the best horror movies are really scary and fun – if that is what the viewer wants – but also offer more if the audience wants to think more deeply either about human nature or about our culture as a whole. The directors I look up to reflect those values in their films.

LATP: What is coming up for SIDE EFFECT?  Will you be screening in Los Angeles anytime soon?

LA: Unfortunately, I’m not screening in LA right now. I’m getting pretty close to the end of my festival run. SIDE EFFECT is still out to some festivals around the country. I’ve been getting some offers for distribution for both television, DVD and even Internet. I’m in the process of evaluating the offers right now. Hopefully, SIDE EFFECT will be available on DVD or the web soon for anyone who wants to see it.

LATP: As you stated earlier, SIDE EFFECT is the first ten pages of your feature script titled BLOOD LEVEL. Can you tell us a little about BLOOD LEVEL?

LA: BLOOD LEVEL picks up the next day at a nearby high school where the kids are clamoring for the new achievement-enhancing drugs to help with test scores. A slacker named Lucas discovers that the drugs are turning the kids into killers. But it is too late – before anyone can stop the murderous teens, Lucas and the killer kids get locked into the school on test day, leaving Lucas to battle for survival against his former friends in a school turned death trap. BLOOD LEVEL is a tale of science gone wrong set in the twisted world of Generation Rx.

LATP: Have you begun any production on the full-length feature BLOOD LEVEL?

LA: Yes, there is a staged reading scheduled for this Friday, December 5th. I will be using this reading to go over the script for any tweaks. Then we will start looking for financing and talent to attach to the project.

LATP: Is there anyone on your wish list to play the leading roles?

LA: Linda Phillips Palo is the very talented casting director who has joined the team and she will be on the lookout for the young talent needed to play the teens. That’s all I can really say right now.

LATP: As a female director in Hollywood and the film festival circuit, has their been any challenges crossing your path to success?

LA: I don’t think I’ve experienced any special problems due to my gender. Although I am in the minority as female director and even more so as a female horror director – it really doesn’t faze me at all. If I’m the only woman at a festival I use the opportunity to stand out from the crowd. If there are other women filmmakers there I love to meet up and make new friends.

I’ve been really thrilled with the support I’ve gotten from the other women I come across in the horror community, their support has been instrumental for me to get some of the early exposure that I’ve gotten. I’ve also gotten a great response from male fans and male festival programmers, and it makes me happy to know that both men and women enjoy the short.

LATP: At the Chicago Horror Film Festival, you were the only woman to have submitted a film. How does this experience compare to other horror film festivals?

LA: One of the strangest things that happens to me at festivals is when people approach me and comment that I must be “a sick/twisted individual”. I have to laugh at that. I’m really a very sunny, positive person. SIDE EFFECT did not come from a “dark place” in me, I really just want to entertain people and horror is such a fun way to get a response from an audience.
I love horror fans. It’s funny but, there are no “romantic comedy” film festivals, but there are horror festivals all over the world. The horror fans really support the genre and the filmmakers who set out to entertain them. Horror fans are very supportive of independent filmmakers and will embrace films without known actors and with lower production values.

LATP: What other projects do you have your sights set on?

LA: I’m currently working on a new script for a horror/psychological thriller that takes place in the corporate world.

LATP: How have horror films evolved and in what way?

LA: I think to look at how horror films have evolved is to look at a history of everything that our civilization fears and seeks to repress and suppress.There are so many sub-genres of horror, this is a huge subject to tackle, but I guess at its core horror is a very personal genre, what horrifies oneperson may not have an effect on another, but as long there are human beings
with fears there will always be someone out there exploiting those fears for entertainment purposes.

LATP: Is there a tried and true formula that makes for a successful horror flick?

LA: One of the longest-lasting conventions of the horror genre is the unknown as a source of horror. No matter how far our society advances, I think that there is just something about the unknown or the unexplainable that makes the hair stand up on the backs of the audience’s necks.

I think a careful balance of suspense, gore, and character motivation is the true formula for a successful horror flick – of course a baby in the oven never hurts, either.

LATP: On that note, thanks for spending time with us today Liz!  Best of luck with everything.

For more information on SIDE EFFECT and Liz Adams please visit: www.sideeffectthemovie.net and www.imdb.com.

Emmy award-winning costume designer Randall Christensen.

A little background on this mastermind: Christensen creates and manufactures high-end glamour costumes for television, film, Las Vegas projects, cruise line shows, and the competitive dance world. Randall’s work in Season 2 of Dancing with The Stars won him an Emmy and has earned him the title of sole designer for the series ever since. He has worked as the costume designer for the TLC network series Ballroom Bootcamp, contributed gowns for Jennifer Lopez in “Shall We Dance” and Mary Steenburgen in “Charm School”, designed for the hit TV show “So You Think You Can Dance”, and for the films "Take the Lead" and "Dance with Me." And if you thought he wasn’t busy enough, as the owner of Randall Designs, the leading company in the dance industry for dance related apparel, he contributes gowns and costumes to the United States Professional Champions & Finalists, the World Showdance Finalists, World Professional Latin Finalists, and other professional teams.

Christensen’s designs graced the ballroom floor on the seventh season of Dancing with the Stars. This past season, Christensen had the pleasure of dressing celebrities such as N SYNC’s Lance Bass, Grammy award-winning singer Toni Braxton, soap star Susan Lucci, celebrity chef Rocco DiSpirito and football professional Warren Sapp.

Christensen answered some burning LA’s the Place questions for the fans:

LATP:  How do you come together with the celebrities and dancers each week, to create the beautiful and elaborate costumes they wear on television?

Randall Christensen: Every Tuesday, after the Results Show, the couples get their new dance/music assignment for the following week. The couples do NOT want to discuss designs until they get their music, due to how much the style of music contributes to the overall tone and look of the costume. For example, if we were to design a Paso Doble (which is a classic Spanish costume, matador/flamenco look) and they were to get a "rock" type song, a classic Paso costume would not work as well as a rock inspired theme. A Bon Jovi song used for Paso Doble just would not work as well if the couple were to wear a classic Spanish theme. The song is screaming for more of a rocker edge to it. So, I have to wait until after Tuesday’s show to even begin to conceptualize each couple’s look. We then meet (and only have about 20 minutes per couple) and look online (YouTube, Google-ing images, etc.) and try to nail their look ASAP. We have all the other couples waiting their turns, so we have to work as quickly as possible. These couples want/need to get out of here and recoup before the next day’s new dance lesson. I must say, there is A LOT of trust between the celebrity and me. They really do believe I’ll give them the best look, based on the music, type of dance, and address their concerns about their body and/or how the costume should move for that particular dance.

LATP:  How long does it take to make each costume, and what happens to them after they wear them?

Randall: We design on Tuesday evening and SHOP THE ENTIRE SHOW on Wednesday! By Wednesday at 6 p.m., we’re delivering the fabrics to our cutters, so that they can start immediately. The costumes are then sewn together Thursday, fit on Friday/Saturday, and beaded/rhinestoned on Saturday/Sunday. The couples come back in for their next and ONLY fitting on Sunday, after they block their routines for the cameras. Final adjustments are made Sunday, and then final trims are put on. The couples get to rehearse in their costumes for their FIRST AND ONLY TIME 2 hours before going live! Any last minute adjustments are done while the dress rehearsal is going on. We take their costumes and run them upstairs with alterations notes, while the couple finishes Dress Rehearsal in a robe!

After the show is over, the costumes go into our stock. Once the season is over the costumes are either worn on the DWTS Tour, or they’re shipped to Phoenix, AZ where my company (Randall Designs) has an agreement to sell the costumes for ABC/BBC.

LATP:  Which celebrity dancer has been your favorite to work with over the course of the show?

Randall: I have been so very fortunate over these past seasons, in that almost all of the celebrities have been such a joy. They’re in a strange new environment, completely out of their comfort zone. And I find that they really do trust me (and their professional partner) completely. We "get" the dance world, and they really do follow our lead. George Hamilton was a dream, and had great ideas – bringing a bit of that old Hollywood glamour onto the dance floor. Kristi Yamaguchi was a dream too. I’m sure it was because she was so accustomed to the rhinestones, beads and lycra!

LATP:  What was the worst costume mishap you have had while working with the show?

Randall: I think my experience within the dance community has helped me avoid any major mishaps costume-wise. We really have not had any big mishaps on the show, even during Dress Rehearsal (when mistakes could happen). Everything has stayed in place, nothing has "popped out" that shouldn’t have. Pretty boring, I know, but I think it’s quite
exciting watching (with a bit of anticipation) the show, wondering JUST HOW those costumes stay on these women’s bodies, seeing as sometimes there’s barely a yard of fabric used!

LATP:  What is a costume designer’s worst fear, while watching his creations out on the dance floor in front of millions of viewers?

Randall: My worst fear is having a Janet Jackson moment! In spite of my best efforts, you never know if this week is going to be "the week" that "it" happens! So far, so good! I guess those double and triple hooks and eyes DO come in handy!

For more information on Randall Christensen or Randall Designs please visit: www.randalldesigns.net.

Greatness Recognized

The Palm Springs International Film Festival, in its 20th year, is recognizing Howard’s 50-year contribution to film with this special honor. Howard has directed some of our most memorable films, from dramas such as A Beautiful Mind, Apollo 13, Cocoon and Backdraft, to comedies like Splash, Parenthood, and Night Shift.

Wholesome Was Gold

Howard’s career began in 1959 as a child actor playing opposite Yul Brynner in the film The Journey, then The Music Man. His breakthrough role was as Opie on the much-loved Andy Griffith Show. Howard credits the unusually supportive atmosphere on the show, where actors were permitted to express views and thoughts on scripts and dialogues, with his current ability to reach out to people.

After the Andy Griffith Show Howard continued acting, through his years as wholesome Richie Cunningham in the well-known series Happy Days to his part in the iconic teen film American Graffiti. Afraid of being type-cast into one particular role, Howard later moved into producing and directing, and founded Imagine Entertainment  in 1986 with his Academy Award® winning business partner Brian Grazer. Imagine Entertainment  has produced a variety of popular films, including hits such as the recent Changeling, directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Angelina Jolie, American Gangster, Inside Man, Curious George, Flightplan, Friday Night Lights, 8 Mile, and The Nutty Professor I and II, Bowfinger, The Paper, Inventing the Abbotts and Liar Liar .

Since his directorial debut in 1976 with Grand Theft Auto, Howard has acted as producer or director (and sometimes both) for many of our best-known films. His movies span a wide variety of genres and styles, including Cinderella Man (Russell Crowe), Far and Away (Tom  Cruise and Nicole Kidman), Ransom (Mel Gibson), the animated How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and Willow (Val Kilmer). He received his first Best Director of the Year award from the Director’s Guild of America for the film Apollo 13 (starring Tom Hanks) in 1995. Howard has also served as executive producer on award-winning television shows such as FOX’s Arrested Development, an Emmy award winner for Best Comedy that he also narrated, and the HBO miniseries From the Earth to the Moon.

What He is Working on Now

An active producer/director, Howard is currently promoting his new film Nixon/Frost, which depicts the battle between President Nixon and famed newsman David Frost. He is also in post-production on the sequel to The Da Vinci Code – Angels and Demons – both films starring acclaimed actor Tom Hanks.

The Palm Springs International Film Festival

The 2009 Palm Springs International Film Festival will be held January 6-19 at the Palm Springs Convention Center. It was founded in 1990 by then-Mayor Sonny Bono. The Festival will showcase over 450 screenings of more than 220 films from approximately 65 countries.  Screenings are held on 15 screens throughout Palm Springs.

The Festival’s 20th Annual Awards Gala is presented by Cartier and sponsored by Mercedes Benz and Entertainment Tonight and will be hosted by Mary Hart. The Festival itself is sponsored by The City of Palm, "The Desert Sun", the City of Indian Wells, the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, Spencer’s Restaurant, and Wessman Development, Bank of America, Integrated Wealth Management, Guthy-Renker, Regal Entertainment, Wells Fargo, Palm Desert National Bank, CBS2, Ocean Properties Development, Ciroc, Johnnie Walker, and Don Julio.

Past recipients of the prestigious award include Stanley Donen, Milos Forman, Ridley Scott, Franco Zeffirelli, and Jim Sheridan
 
For additional information call                      (760) 322-2930           or                      (800) 898-7256           or visit www.psfilmfest.org