Entertainment

Photo: Contributed - AP

Adele at the 2011 Brit Awards

Adele has hit back at Karl Largerfeld's "too fat" comment - insisting she is proud of her figure.

The Chanel creative director - who now claims his remark was taken out of context - complemented the 'Someone Like You' singer on her beauty in Paris' Metro newspaper earlier this week, but then appeared to accuse her of being a "little too fat".

He has since apologised, but Adele, 23, says she has never aspired to be stick-thin.

She said: "I've never wanted to look like models on the cover of magazines. I represent the majority of women and I'm very proud of that.

While her spokesman declined to comment on Lagerfeld's remarks, Adele maintains that she likes herself exactly as she is.

She told People Magazine: "I'd lose weight if I was an actress and had to play a role where you're supposed to be 40 pounds lighter, but weight has nothing to do with my career.

"Even when I was signing [a contract], most of the industry knew if anyone ever dared say [lose weight] to me, they wouldn't be working with me."

She is due to give her first performance at Sunday night's Grammy Awards - where she is nominated in six categories - since undergoing surgery on her vocal chords.

File: CTV

Photo: Contributed - AP

Designer Karl Lagerfeld in Germany, 2011

Karl Lagerfeld has apologised for calling Adele "fat".

The creative director for Chanel came under fire earlier this week after he took aim at the Grammy Award-winning star's figure.

As guest editor for Metro, he said: "The thing at the moment is Adele. She is a little too fat, but she has a beautiful face and a divine voice."

But he now insists that his comments were taken "out of context," and that he is actually a huge fan of the ‘Someone Like You' singer.

He told the newspaper Wednesday: "I'd like to say to Adele that I am your biggest admirer. Sometimes when you take a sentence out of the article it changes the meaning of the thought.

"I actually prefer Adele, she is my favourite singer and I am a great admirer of her. I lost over 30 kilos over 10 years ago and have kept it off. I know how it feels when the press is mean to you in regards to your appearance.

"Adele is a beautiful girl. She is the best. And I can't wait for her next CD."

Moving on to the subject of rapper M.I.A's controversial finger flipping at Sunday's Super Bowl, the fashion guru admits he did not find it all that shocking.

He said: "Nowadays people give the middle finger quite quickly -- it's not the best behaviour. Everybody does that, what's new about that?

"It's just become a bad habit. People in magazines are 50 per cent bimbo and 50 per cent pregnant women."

File: CTV

Photo: Contributed - AP

President Obama and First Lady Michelle

WASHINGTON — Michelle Obama and "Late Night" host Jimmy Fallon turned the White House into a playground to promote the first lady's "Let's Move!" fitness campaign.

Mrs. Obama and Fallon did pushups and twirled hula hoops. They competed at dodge ball and tug-of-war. And the first lady triumphed over the comedian in a climactic potato sack race.

After a defeated Fallon said, "It doesn't matter if you won or lost," the first lady replied, "It matters."

The segment was taped last month and aired early Wednesday on NBC's "Late Night" program.

Mrs. Obama has been making the talk-show rounds to celebrate the second anniversary of her campaign against childhood obesity. In the past few weeks she has appeared on "The Tonight Show With Jay Leno," "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" and "Rachael Ray."

Here's the video, while it lasts on YouTube.

File: CTV

Photo: Contributed - Fox

American Idol producer Nigel Lythgoe

Castanet took part in a media conference held by American Idol producer Nigel Lythgoe this morning, and the man who does doubled duty judging TV’s So You Think You Can Dance pulled no punches in answering questions.

Dwindling ratings have loomed over the current 11th season of Idol much like the Kelowna fog, but Lythgoe is unfazed by the ratings drop. “I’m still thrilled with these ratings,” he says. “We’re consistently being compared to ourselves, but all the other singing shows are obviously going to dilute the ratings. ”

The ratings issue keeps coming up, as the various media outlets continue to find creative ways to ask the same question.

Lythgoe, still holding his ground (yet a small tinge of annoyance can be detected in his voice), continues: “I get it. There’s going to be viewer fatigue. After 11 years, we shouldn’t be in a position to be defending ourselves here. Whatever bad press we’re getting about the ratings, I mean, my God the rest of the world would kill for these kinds of ratings.”

As much as the judges have added some flair to the show, their hesitation in handing out harsh criticism to the contestants has caused many viewers to question the program’s integrity. Lythgoe is quick to respond.

“Judging is difficult. Randy, Jennifer and Steven have to be honest and articulate, while supporting the artist. Artists are different than record execs – who don’t need to be supportive. In the end, as we get into the final 12, if the judging fails it’s only because they truly believe in the talent.”

How does he feel about judges like Simon Cowell and LA Reid? “If all you want is negativity then…” he trails off, then regroups. 

"If what you want is bloody good talent on that stage without gimmicks, then you watch American Idol, because that’s what you’re going to get.”

Another persisting pressing issue was NBC’s The Voice, which debuted to huge ratings, thanks in part to a post-Super Bowl slot. “It’s a fun format,” Lythgoe says. “But its’ very gimmicky, and they need stronger talent.”

Regarding host Ryan Seacrest, the Idol producer was full of admiration.

“He’s probably the best host in the business…  and the glue that holds (the show) together and moves it along.” He admitted he’d hate to see Ryan go. “I don’t have anything bad to say against Ryan other than that he’s too good-looking and has too much money…I just hope he doesn’t leave to be frank. They should try to sort out a deal.”

Other interesting tidbits that came out of the interview:

On Obama visiting the show:

“My request to have him appear has so far gone unanswered. I don’t think he’ll be making an appearance. ”

On the drama of Hollywood week:

“I’m shocked these kids don’t realize how tough Hollywood week is. We had lots of people dropping like flies from dehydration, and we had a bit of a bug going around. There was lots of sleep deprivation, and a girl even falls off the stage. What I found interesting was the groups who went to bed at 11:30 did well and those who stayed up all night performed poorly."

On the controversial judges' save:

“It’s still up in the air. It may be one save or it may not even happen."

The intensity of the competition heats up tomorrow night, as hopefuls chosen from around the nation vie for a coveted semifinalist spot in the all-new “Hollywood Round, Part 1” episode of American Idol, airs at 8 pm on Fox and CTV.

Photo: Contributed - CTV

M.I.A. flips the bird during halftime show

Madonna is reportedly furious with rapper M.I.A for giving the finger at their Super Bowl performance.

The 'Paper Planes' singer joined Madonna on stage as a guest vocalist at Sunday's game but shocked viewers when she stuck up her middle finger whilst singing the line: "I don't give a s**t," from Madonna's new track ‘Give Me All Your Luvin'.

As the incident continues to grab headlines across the world, Madonna, 53, is said to be far from pleased, feeling it has detracted from their performance.

A source told The Sun newspaper: "Madonna wasn't impressed. She prides herself on professionalism.

"M.I.A did nothing similar in rehearsals. Nobody knew she was going to pull this stunt.

"Madonna wanted to put on a world-beating performance. But everyone ended up talking about this girl's middle finger."

According to a second source, M.I.A -- real name Mathangi Arulpragasam -- got carried away and acted on "adrenaline".

The source said: "She wasn't thinking. She was caught in the moment and she's incredibly sorry."

M.I.A, of Mitcham, south London, could now face a fine according to TMZ.

A source told the U.S. website she signed a contract which makes her liable to pay any penalties imposed by TV regulators.

A US$550,000 fine was imposed following Janet Jackson's "wardrobe malfunction" when she flashed a breast at the 2004 Super Bowl.

File: CTV

     By Rene Gross

New out on DVD for Tuesday, Feb.7

Photo: Contributed - Summit Entertainment

The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1

Actually released on Sat. Feb.11

In this fourth installment of The Twilight Saga, a marriage, honeymoon and the birth of a child bring unforeseen and shocking developments for Bella (Kristen Stewart), Edward (Robert Pattinson) and those they love, including new complications with werewolf Jacob Black (Taylor Lautner).
    
Based on the popular series of books from author Stephenie Meyer, this movie already has a built in fan base worldwide - and nothing I say is going to sway you one way or the other whether you're going to see the film or not.

I'm not the target demographic here as I'm not a teenage girl, and as much a I enjoy a good vampire yarn, the mere fact that these vampires "sparkle" in the sunlight as opposed to burn to death is reason enough for me to take a pass on this one. 

For purposes of full disclosure, this film is averaging 4.4/10 on Rotten Tomatoes.

A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas

Following years of growing apart, Harold (John Cho) and Kumar (Kal Penn) have replaced each other with new friends and are preparing for their respective Yuletide celebrations.

But when a mysterious package mistakenly arrives at Kumar's door on Christmas Eve, his attempt to redirect it to Harold's house ends with the "high grade" contents - and Harold's father-in-law's prize Christmas tree - going up in smoke.

With his in-laws out of the house for the day, Harold decides to cover his tracks, rather than come clean. Reluctantly embarking on another ill-advised journey with Kumar through New York City, their search for the perfect replacement tree takes them through party heaven, and almost blows Christmas Eve sky high.
    
This third entry in the popular comedy series is still as raunchy and rude as its predecessors and actually shows a sweeter side to the duo of misfits. If you're looking for some high times then this one should stoke your need.

It's averaging 6.2/10 on Rotten Tomatoes.

Also out:    

Also out this week is the Shakespearian drama Anonymous, which poses the question of who the real author was of the plays credited to William Shakepreare.

It stars Rhys Ifans, Vanessa Redgrave and David Thewlis.

For the Disney lovers out there the Diamond Edition Blu-ray of the classic Lady and the Tramp makes it's way to shelves on Tuesday as well.

Blast from the past: It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World

Available for the first time ever on Blu-ray this week is one of my all time favorite comedies, the 1963 Stanley Kramer classic, It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World.

It's about a search for buried treasure by at least a dozen people - all played by the most well-known entertainers of their day - including Milton Berle, Jonathan Winters, Sid Caesar, Ethel Merman, Mickey Rooney, Buddy Hackett and Phil Silvers.

When these strangers witness a dying man (Jimmy Durante) identify the location of hidden money, a conflict-ridden hunt begins, watched over carefully by a suspicious cop (Spencer Tracy). The ensuing two and a half hours of mayhem provides the type of mass comedy that Hollywood seems incapable of making anymore these days.

Sure, it's slapstick and broad, but it's great fun for the whole family and well worth checking out.

Photo: The Canadian Press. All rights reserved.

Jean Pascal, right, from Montreal, takes a left from Bernard Hopkins during their WBC light heavyweight world title fight Saturday, May 21, 2011 in Montreal. Betting on the New England Patriots in the Super Bowl has delivered a knockout blow to former WBC light heavyweight boxing champion Jean Pascal. He had to give up his Mercedes-Benz to a friend after the New York Giants scored the winning touchdown in the NFL championship game Sunday. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ryan Remiorz

It's not like being slugged by Bernard Hopkins, but it had to hurt.

Former world boxing champ Jean Pascal has turned over his Mercedes-Benz to a friend after losing a bet on the Super Bowl.

While he may be down, Pascal wants to point out he's not out. The Montreal boxer plans to reclaim his vehicle soon.

"Alright everyone, before this gets too serious, the bet was the car but just for a month, but I'm keeping my word," he said Monday on his Twitter page.

"That'll teach me!"

Later Monday afternoon, Pascal also sent out a news release apologizing to anyone who was offended by the "friendly wager" with his buddy, stressing that he doesn't condone gambling of any kind.

"Times are still extremely hard and difficult for all of us and I would never make a mockery out of these hard economic times by giving away a car," he said. "This has definitely been a lesson for me. In the future, I will be more responsible with what I choose to put on social media."

Pascal bet on the New England Patriots, but they went down to defeat when the New York Giants scored the winning touchdown in yesterday's football nailbiter.

The former light heavyweight champ's angst is all laid out on his Twitter feed.

"Giving away my S550 ... I won't ever do that again," Pascal said of the high-end luxury car on Twitter.

"I need a ride back home," he tweeted in another post.

If that weren't enough, friends have posted video of him turning over the keys.

"Gimme the keys, gimme the keys," the unidentified new owner of the car cheerfully chants as Pascal slowly walks over and plops the keys to the sleek black sedan in his hands.

"Giants, baby, Giants," the man chants, pumping the air with his fists as a man laughs in the background.

Pascal holds his hands up in front of his face as the unidentified videographer turns his camera on him and says, "C'mon, champ, say bye-bye. Say bye-bye to the Benz."

The 59-second clip ends with the driver pulling into the street and yelling, "Thanks for the car!"

There's also a picture of Pascal grabbing his head and rocking back on the couch in disappointment as the Giants notched the win on TV.

His excitement during the game, which the Giants won 21-17, is clear in a stream of tweets, including exclamations like "Mon dieu mon dieu mon dieu (My God, my God, my God.)

The fighter takes a lot of good-natured teasing from his friends, including one who tells him to look at the bright side because fellow Haitian Jason-Pierre Paul won a ring with the Giants. Olympic gold medalist Bruny Surin also quipped that if Pascal wanted to go car shopping, he'd keep him company.

There was one other, considerable bright note for Pascal: "At least I still have my Range Rover," he said.

Photo: Contributed - Disney

Miss Piggy has challenged George Clooney to a wrestling match at the Orange British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs) 2012.

The puppet star of TV series The Muppets is the official red carpet host of the film awards, and is looking forward to the possibility of meeting with 'The Descendants' star, who is dating wrestler Stacey Kiebler.

Miss Piggy said: "I don't wrestle girlfriends. However, if George wants to wrestle, bring it on! Best two out of three falls? Winner gets a dinner?"

She also promised that the awards could be a career highlight for a number of actors' career, not because they could win awards, but because they will get to meet her.

She added: "Imagine the likes of George Clooney, Jean Dujardin, Michael Fassbender, Gary Oldman and Brad Pitt achieving the very pinnacle of their careers by getting a chance to speak with the one and only moi - Miss Piggy!

"Naturally, I will be asking questions that only moi would dare to ask."

Miss Piggy - famed for her diva personality and glamorous outfits - also thinks there's only one person who can compete with her in the glamour stakes, Lady Gaga, and has given an insight into her daily beauty regime.

She said: "I wake up at the crack of dawn, realise it's far too early to get up, then go back to bed and sleep until mid-morning. Then first thing, I meet with my personal trainer. Not only is he a gorgeous hunk, but he does the workout for me," she revealed.

"Hey, if I'm paying, then he's sweating, not moi. After a relaxing massage and a healthy brunch, my diva-certified crew of stylists, hairdressers, make-up artists and sycophants arrives to prepare me for the day."

The BAFTAs take place this Sunday.

File: CTV

Movie Review: Chronicle 
   By Rene Gross

Photo: Contributed - Fox

Michael B. Jordan, Dane DeHaan, and Alex Russell in 'Chronicle'

"With great power comes great responsibility." This famous quote from the film Spiderman aptly applies to the characters in the new movie Chronicle. It tells the tale of three high school students who make an incredible discovery, leading to their developing uncanny powers beyond their understanding.

As they learn to control their abilities and use them to their advantage, their lives start to spin out of control and their darker sides begin to take over.
    
The main character in the film is Andrew Detmer, played by a gifted young actor named Dane DeHaan (who bears an eerie resemblance to a young Leonardo DiCaprio).

Andrew leads a miserable existence. His mother is dying of cancer, his father's an abusive, alcoholic tyrant and his high school life is one of torment and isolation.

One night Andrew, along with his friends Matt (Alex Russell) and Steve (Michael B. Jordan) find a hole in the ground in a field and decide to go down to explore.

Without spoiling too much, what they find in this underground cave is something glowing and creepy. The results of this discovery are that they are now enabled with special powers  - such as the ability to move small objects with their minds - and the more they practice these abilities the stronger they become.
   
Chronicle is yet another entry in the pantheon of "found footage" films like Cloverfiled, Paranormal Activity and Blair Witch Project; however, where those films were full of annoying shaky cam shots, this one approaches the subgenre with a little telekinesis-inspired creativity by having Andrew control the camera with his mind so that it's not shaking all over the place constantly.

First time feature director Josh Trank makes an auspicious debut and shows that he has a keen eye for staging incredible action sequences. I can see why he is the rumored director of the upcoming reboot of the Fantastic Four series.
    
I feel that with Chronicle, the director has created a fresh, energetic spin on the superhero origin story, and in many ways it reminded me of the M.Night Shymylan film Unbreakable (with Bruce Willis) in that it would make the perfect debut issue of a comic book series.

I had a blast with this film, as the action built steadily throughout, culminating in an all out ass-kicking barrage of mayhem and destruction towards the end, as the city of Seattle (where the film is set) is obliterated.

Clocking in at an economical 83 minutes, Chronicle is paced just right; and for those of you seeking a worthy entry in the superhero genre, this movie is highly entertaining and worth checking out this weekend.

I give it 8/10.

​Chronicle is playing at the Grand 10.

Castanet's Krystina Rossworm interviewed comedian Herb Dixon this week, and we've got the highlights for you.

Herb's 30 Years of Comedy show happens tonight at 8 pm, and you can get your tickets here.

Photo: Contributed - CBS Films

Less than a week after Wheel of Fortune host Pat Sajak admitted to being drunk at work, news of another celebrity who has revealed that he, too, was under the influence in front of the camera, is making the rounds.

Harry Potter star Daniel Radcliffe tells the British celebrity magazine Heat that he went to work on the set while drunk.

But unlike Sajak's lighthearted account of margaritas with Vanna White on filming breaks, Radcliffe, 22, shares a darker experience.

"I went into work still drunk," he tells the magazine. "I can point to many scenes where I'm just gone. Dead behind the eyes. I have a very addictive personality. It was a problem."

Stressing that he didn't drink at work, Radcliffe adds that, "People with problems like that are very adept at hiding it. It was bad. I drank a lot and it was … nightly."

The actor has said that he no longer drinks. "You either have to change something," he tells Heat, "or give into that shame."

File: People.com

By Rene Gross

Hey folks, it's your friendly neighborhood film buff here to preview this week's upcoming theatrical releases.

I'll offer you a brief overview of the films, as well as my analysis on how I perceive these movies will be.

Afterwards we will play a fun little game, but you'll have to stay tuned for that.

Just to give you a little background on my qualifications, I've been a film buff my whole life and I enjoy all different genres. I especially have a passion for classic cinema. I spent most of the past 17 years working for Rogers Video, so not only have I seen an immense amount of movies, but I've recommended many films to people over the years.

So enough about me… let's get crackin' on the previews. First on the docket is:

Photo: Contributed - CBS Films

The Woman in Black

In this old ghost story, Daniel Radcliffe - he of Harry Potter fame - plays a depressed young attorney who is trying to keep his life together after the death of his wife.

His work is suffering and he's given one more chance to prove his worth by settling the estate of an old family in a remote English village. Naturally, there's a supernatural secret being kept in this terrorized little region and Radcliffe slowly uncovers the horrible truth bit by bit.

This is the second feature film for director James Watkins, whose previous film was the underrated but little seen thriller Eden Lake - which stars the currently hot actor Michael Fassbender.

Co-starring Ciaran Hinds and current Oscar nominee Janet McTeer, this is a remake of the 1989 made for TV movie.

My Take:

Having seen the original production I'm aware of how creepy and atmospheric this ghost story will be. It's an old-fashioned haunted house tale that relishes in slowly building tension via lighting, set pieces and moody performances.

It doesn't need to rely on gore and gimmicks to garner the audiences' squeals of fright.

Judging by the trailer for this version, it looks like it does a solid job of capturing the gothic atmosphere and eerie mood of the great classic Hammer horror films starring Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee… as well as one of my all time favorites the Changeling with George C. Scott.

It will be interesting to see how Daniel Radcliffe transitions into more adult fare after being engrained in everyone's consciousness the past decade as the wizard Harry Potter. I, for one, am looking forward to this good old fashioned bit of spooky storytelling, made all the fresher in this day and age of found footage, rapid editing and technology-driven horror.

Photo: Contributed - Universal

Big Miracle

In small town Alaska, a news reporter recruits his ex-girlfriend - a Greenpeace volunteer - on a campaign to save a family of gray whales trapped by rapidly forming ice in the Arctic Circle. Starring Drew Barrymore and John Krasinski,

Big Miracle is directed by Ken Kwapis, who made the cutesy family film Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants as well as the atrocious comedy License to Wed.

My Take:

So this film is inspired by a true story rather than based on one. Does this give the studio more creative license to make a more formulaic and predictable movie the way most Hollywood versions of inspirational true tales are?

I know, I know: one probably has to check their cynicism at the door for this one, but based on the trailer it looks to have plenty of eye-rolling earnestness as it wants to inspire us to do something extraordinary.

Hopefully the likability of the two lead actors and strong supporting cast will elevate the material from being overly sentimental drivel.

I think I'll wait for this one on Blu-ray.

Photo: Contributed - Fox

Chronicle

Chronicle tells the tale of three high school friends that gain superpowers after making an incredible discovery. Soon, though, they find their lives spinning out of control and their bond tested as they embrace their darker sides.

Starring a cast of relative unknowns, and helmed by first time feature director Josh Trank, this film has been called Cloverfield meets Unbreakable.

Lifting a page from J.J. Abrams playbook, the studio has kept the plot secretive with the only thing being known is that it is equal parts sci-fi, mystery and horror.

My Take:

Sign me up! Being a former comic book geek, this movie looks like it will be right up my alley. In fact, having watched the trailer I totally think this film will rock my testicular region clean off.

Some of you may think: haven't we seen this story before when it was called Push or the X-Men? I have a sneaky suspicion though that this will be wholly creative and original and an entirely different take on the genre.

The word on this street is that director Josh Trank has already been optioned to make the reboot of the Fantastic Four series and the studio wouldn't do that if it didn't have complete faith in the quality of this genre piece.

Colour me excited for this one.

FUN CHUCK NORRIS GAME

Alright… so I promised you we were going to play a little game.

Back in 1994 some college students created a game called Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon whereby the object was to connect any person in Hollywood history to actor Kevin Bacon in six steps or less.

Since Kevin Bacon isn't really the in thing anymore, I've decided to create a new game. It's called Six Degrees of Chuck Norris!

Why Chuck Norris, you ask? Well, simply put, Chuck Norris is the supreme overlord of badassery and if anyone disagrees I will send Chuck a message on Facebook and he will promptly show up at your door and round-house kick your head off.

The rules are simple: I will take the three lead actors of the aforementioned films I just discussed, and connect them to Chuck Norris in six steps or less without repeating any connections for all three.

Okay, let's begin.

Daniel Radcliffe from the Woman in Black was in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (2001) with Alan Rickman who was in Die Hard (1988) with Bruce Willis who is going to be in the upcoming film The Expendables 2 with Chuck Norris. That one was easy.

Drew Barrymore from Big Miracle was in Bad Girls (1994) with Mary Stuart Masterson who was in Benny & Joon (1993) with Johnny Depp who was the lead voice in the Corpse Bride (2005) along with fellow voice actor Christopher Lee who was in An Eye For An Eye (1981) with Chuck Norris.

Alright, now the tricky one.

Dane DeHaan from Chronicle was in the TV show True Blood (2011) with Anna Paquin who was in the Piano (1993) with Harvey Keitel who was in Cop Land (1997) with Sylvester Stallone who was in Death Race 2000 (1975) with David Carradine who was in Lone Wolf McQuade (1983) with Chuck Norris.

Well, hopefully you had some fun playing along with my twisted sense of amusement, and if the powers that be allow me, I will be back next week with more previews - including the new Denzel Washington thriller Safe House. (bet I've already got you thinking how Denzel connects to Chuck, haven't I).

Chuck Norris fun fact:

When the boogeyman goes to sleep every night he checks his closet for Chuck Norris.

Photo: Contributed - AP

David and Victoria Beckham in 2009

David Beckham's "naked days are over."

The soccer star -- who has sons Brooklyn, 12, Romeo, nine, and six-year-old Cruz and six-month-old daughter Harper with wife Victoria -- admits he happily walks around his Los Angeles home in his underwear but thinks stripping would be inappropriate because of his little girl.

He said: "My naked days are over. I definitely walk around the house in my underwear. But not naked. With the boys it's not a problem because they're naked all the time but with a little girl now, it is different."

David, 36, released his first collection of male bodywear with fashion chain H&M Wednesday, and admitted his youngsters get embarrassed when they see him posing in adverts for it.

Unveiling his collection in London, he added: "They say 'Oh my God Daddy -- not again'. They were like, 'That's really good, but everyone's gonna see you in your pants.'"

The hunky sportsman also insisted he has never worn an embarrassing pair of underwear and doesn't believe in "lucky"  undergarments.

Asked if anyone had seen him in bad underwear, he said: "Thankfully not. My parents always provided me with nice underwear.

"I never had a lucky pair of underpants."

File: CTV

Three women find themselves as unwilling participants in a sadistic game of life or death. These new "Contestants" must question morality and be willing to do anything that is necessary to survive and save their captive loved ones.

Their biggest threats are the twisted murderous minds of the "Hunting Parties" tracking them down.

Nobody escapes this game without blood on their hands. Kill or be killed. Welcome to the Jamboree.

1980FOUR Productions presents the screening of locally made epic indie short film “The Jamboree”.
The screening will take place at The Paramount Theatre, downtown Kelowna on February 2nd, 2012.

There will be 2 screening times @ 6:50pm & 8:00pm, followed by Q&A with the filmmakers & actors.

Run Time - 45mins

Afterparty will be at Doc Willoughby's following the 8pm screening.

Ticket are $7 at the door, and also available at Leo’s Video on Pandosy

DVD's available for $10 each
 

Here's the trailer for the film:

Photo: Contributed - AP

Don Cornelius in Los Angeles in 2006

LOS ANGELES — Don Cornelius, who with the creation of "Soul Train" helped break down racial barriers and broaden the reach of black culture with funky music, groovy dance steps and cutting edge style, died early Wednesday of an apparent suicide. He was 75.

Officers responding to a report of a shooting found Cornelius at his Mulholland Drive home at around 4 a.m., police said. He was pronounced dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound at 4:56 a.m. at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, said Los Angeles County Assistant Chief Coroner Ed Winter.

A police cruiser sat parked in the entryway of Cornelius' home on a two-lane stretch of Mulholland Drive in the hills above Los Angeles. News cameras camped outside as drivers on their morning commute drove by.

"He was a transformer," the Rev. Jesse Jackson told KNX-Los Angeles. "'Soul Train' became the outlet for African-Americans."

Jackson said he talked to Cornelius a few days ago and there were no signs Cornelius was upset.

"I am shocked and deeply saddened at the sudden passing of my friend, colleague, and business partner Don Cornelius," said Quincy Jones. "Don was a visionary pioneer and a giant in our business. Before MTV there was 'Soul Train,' that will be the great legacy of Don Cornelius. His contributions to television, music and our culture as a whole will never be matched. My heart goes out to Don's family and loved ones."

The Rev. Al Sharpton said he was shocked and grief-stricken.

"I have known him since I was19-years-old and James Brown had me speak on Soul Train," Sharpton said in a statement from New York. "He brought soul music and dance to the world in a way that it had never been shown and he was a cultural game changer on a global level."

"Soul Train" began in 1970 in Chicago on WCIU-TV as a local program and aired nationally from 1971 to 2006.

It showcased such legendary artists as Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye and Barry White and brought the best R&B, soul and later hip-hop acts to TV and had teenagers dance to them. It was one of the first shows to showcase African-Americans prominently, although the dance group was racially mixed. Cornelius was the first host and executive producer.

"There was not programming that targeted any particular ethnicity," he said in 2006, then added: "I'm trying to use euphemisms here, trying to avoid saying there was no television for black folks, which they knew was for them."

"Soul Train," with its trademark opening of an animated chugging train, was not, however, an immediate success for Cornelius, an ex-disc jockey with a baritone rumble and cool manner.

Only a handful of stations initially were receptive.

"When we rolled it out, there were only eight takers," he recalled in a 2006 interview with The Associated Press. "Which was somewhere between a little disappointing and a whole lot disappointing."

The reasons he heard? "There was just, 'We don't want it. We pass,"' he said, with race going unmentioned. "No one was blatant enough to say that."

"Soul Train" had arrived on the scene at a time when the country was still reeling from the civil rights movement, political upheaval and cultural swings. It also arrived when black faces on TV were an event, not a regular occurrence.

"Soul Train" was seen by some at first as the black "American Bandstand," the mainstay TV music show hosted by Dick Clark. While "American Bandstand" featured black artists, it was more of a showcase for white artists and very mainstream black performers.

"Soul Train" followed some of the "Bandstand" format, as it had an audience and young dancers, and Cornelius was its host.

But that's where the comparisons stopped. Cornelius, the suave, ultra-cool emcee, made "Soul Train" appointment viewing by creating a show that showed another side of black music and culture.

When it started, glistening Afros dominated the set, as young blacks boogied and shimmied to the music of the likes of Earth Wind & Fire and other acts perhaps less likely to get on "American Bandstand."

People tuned into to see the musical acts, but the dancers soon became as much of a main attraction. They introduced Americans to new dances and fashion styles, and made the "Soul Train" dance line -- where people stand line up on each side while others sashay down to show their moves -- a cultural flashpoint.

Though "Soul Train" became the longest-running syndicated show in TV history, its power began to wane in the 1980s and '90s as the American pop culture began folding in black culture instead of keeping it segregated. By that time, there were more options for black artists to appear on mainstream shows, and on shows like "American Bandstand," blacks could be seen dancing along with whites.

But even when Michael Jackson became the King of Pop, there was still a need to highlight the achievements of African-Americans, whose achievements were still marginalized at mainstream events. So Cornelius created the "Soul Train Awards," which would become a key honour for musicians. The series also spawned the Soul Train Lady of Soul Awards and the Soul Train Christmas Starfes

Cornelius, who was inducted into the Broadcasting and Cable Hall of Fame in 1995 and has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, said in 2006 he remained grateful to the musicians who made "Soul Train" the destination for the best and latest in black music.

"I figured as long as the music stayed hot and important and good, that there would always be a reason for 'Soul Train,"' Cornelius said.

Cornelius stepped down as "Soul Train" host in 1993. The awards returned to the air in 2009 after two-year hiatus. Last year's awards were held on Nov. 27 in Atlanta, with Earth Wind & Fire receiving the "Legend Award."

In his later years, Cornelius had a troubled marriage. In 2009, he was sentenced to three years' probation after pleading no contest to misdemeanour spousal battery. In his divorce case that year, he also mentioned having significant health issues.

File: CTV

Photo: Contributed - Nancy Reyes

DON QUIJOTE (Sadaise Arencibia)

One of Cuba's greatest treasures is coming to Kelowna, and no it's not a humidor filled with cigars.

As part of their first ever Western Canada tour, the National Ballet of Cuba will perform at the Kelowna Community Theatre.

Mya Brewis the Marketing Coordinator for Ballet Kelowna, a co-presenter of the event, says the 36 member premiere international ballet company will preform 'The Magic of Dance' a collection of dances from a world famous ballet repertoire.

"The National Ballet of Cuba has performed in over sixty countries and received hundreds of international awards."

The national treasure was started in 1948 by Cuban ballerina Alicia Alonso, after a successful career in the American Ballet Theatre, when she returned to Cuba to start the company.

In 1959, she was given the rare title of Prima Ballerina Assoluta, a title only given to a handful of the world's greatest ballerinas. Alonsa is now 91-years-old and she continues to direct the company.

Brewis says the dancers receive intense training and individual coaching on a combination of fiery Latin passion and Russian technique at the ballet school.

Photo: Contributed - Nancy Reyes

DON QUIJOTE (Alejandro Virelles y cuerpo de baile)

"Cuban-trained dancers are now marquee names in top ballet companies through the world, who often go on to become principal dancers with major ballet companies in the west."

The National Ballet of Cuba will be performing at the Kelowna Community Theatre for two shows only- Saturday, Feb 11 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, February 12 at 2:00 p.m.

Tickets are available from SelectYourTickets.com or 250-762-5050.

First lady Michelle Obama cajoled TV talk show host Jay Leno into nibbling on apples, sweet potato fries and a pizza made with eggplant, green peppers and zucchini on the "Tonight Show," breaking his long-held aversion for all-things-healthy in his diet.

Leno once told a magazine he hadn't eaten a vegetable since 1969, and he insisted he tasted his last apple in 1984. That didn't dissuade the first lady, who's promoting her "Let's Move!" campaign to get kids excited about fitness and healthy eating habits.

Earlier, Obama poked fun at him in a Twitter post, hinting she'd "get Jay to eat some veggies" on the NBC show.

He did.

"That does smell very good. I assume this is sausage-pepperoni," the comedian quipped as he eyed the pizza made with a whole-wheat crust.

She convinced Leno to dip an apple in honey made from beehives in the White House garden: "It will help it go down easier," she assured him.

"White House honey? That sounds bad," Leno told her. "You know, with a different president that could mean a whole different thing, 'a little White House honey.'"

The first lady is on a two-day swing through California where she'll promote her initiative while attending two events to help Democrats raise money for the upcoming elections.

She told Leno she's not doing anything special to prepare for what's expected to be a tough re-election campaign for her husband, President Barack Obama.

"You know, there's really no way to mentally prepare for it. You take each day as it comes," she said.

Republican Mitt Romney has been ridiculing the White House and might face the president in November, but the first lady graded the former Massachusetts governor's singing voice with something like a sly endorsement. Romney surprised supporters in Florida with an on-pitch version of "America the Beautiful" on Monday, and Leno asked the first lady for her opinion.

"It's beautiful," she said after a pregnant pause, with a laugh and raised eyebrows. "And it is America's song, and it's a song that's meant to be sung by every American," the first lady said in a taped appearance for the NBC show.

Leno told her, "That is right, regardless of political affiliation."

But she swooned over her husband's singing, Obama took a brief turn as a soul singer earlier this month at a New York fundraiser, crooning a bar from an Al Green classic. She says he does a little Marvin Gaye, too.

"He does have a beautiful voice, and he sings to me all the time," she told Leno.

The geeks have bragging rights over the superstar strivers.

The CBS comedy "The Big Bang Theory" had a slightly larger audience than Fox's "American Idol" during the half hour when the shows were in head-to-head competition on Thursday, the Nielsen Co. said. The advantage was slight, 16.13 million to 15.56 million, but significant. It is believed to be the first scripted series to beat the Fox juggernaut in head-to-head competition.

That speaks to a slow start for "American Idol" this year, even though the show's Wednesday edition was the top-rated program of the week.

"The Big Bang Theory," meanwhile, is up 15 per cent in viewership this season in what has been a strong year for comedy. Syndication may be a big factor in its success. It's the first year reruns of the comedy from past seasons are being shown elsewhere on the TV dial, and that often attracts more viewers to the fresh episodes.

The comedy's success is also helping Rob Schneider's new sitcom "Rob," which immediately follows it on CBS' schedule. "Rob" finished among Nielsen's top 10 last week.

Fox News Channel is celebrating a milestone. The end of January marks 10 years since it eclipsed CNN as the top-rated cable news network, a status it has not relinquished. Fox News Chairman and CEO Roger Ailes said he was "extremely proud" of the achievement and recognizes how difficult it is to sustain such a level of success.

Also on Tuesday, HBO announced that after one week on the air, the horseracing drama "Luck" starring Dustin Hoffman has been renewed for a second season. An estimated 3.3 million people saw the first episode in either one of the three airings on Sunday or during a December sneak preview.

CBS was the top broadcast network with an average of 9.3 million viewers in prime time last week (5.9 rating, 10 share). Fox averaged 8 million (4.7, 7), NBC had 6.1 million (3.8, 6), ABC had 5.7 million (3.6, 6), the CW had 1.1 million (0.8, 1) and ION Television had 1.1 million (0.7, 1).

Among the Spanish-language networks, Univision led with a 3.7 million average (1.8, 3), Telemundo had 1.4 million (0.7, 1), TeleFutura had 610,000 (0.3, 1), Estrella had 220,000 and Azteca 190,000 (both 0.1, 0).

NBC's "Nightly News" topped the evening newscasts with an average of 9.3 million viewers (6.2, 11). ABC's "World News" was second with 8.2 million (5.4, 10) and the "CBS Evening News" had 6.7 million viewers (4.5, 8).

A ratings point represents 1,147,000 households, or 1 per cent of the nation's estimated 114.7 million TV homes. The share is the percentage of in-use televisions tuned to a given show.

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Online:

http://www.nielsen.com