Openly gay singer-songwriter, Steve Grand, released this lovely, melancholy video to his singing "All I Want For Christmas Is You."
Tuesday, December 22, 2015
Monday, December 14, 2015
Call For Submissions!
I'm pleased to announce I'm now the business manager of Benicia Literary Arts, which is in Benicia, California.
Our forthcoming book is Donnell Rubay's With A Dream So Proud: The Life of Stephen Vincent Benet. You might know Benet wrote Devil and Daniel Webster, which won an O. Henry Award in 1936. In his youth, he lived in Benicia.
Be sure to check out Joan Gefland's book of poetry, The Long Blue Room, published in 2014. You can purchase it at Amazon or request a copy at your local bookshop.
Call for Submissions!
Benicia Literary Arts welcomes submissions of manuscripts of previously unpublished fiction, non-fiction, and poetry. No matter what the genre, we value focus and clarity of vision, deep thinking, good writing, and a sense of orientation in time and place. We encourage submissions from both experienced and emerging writers. Only complete, or nearly complete, works will be accepted. Simultaneous submissions are not accepted.
Submission guidelines:
Please send a letter of inquiry to Mary Eichbauer, Editor-in-Chief, via email or by mail to
Mary Eichbauer, Editor-in-Chief
Benicia Literary Arts
PO Box 1903
Benicia, CA 94510
Please include a synopsis or description of the work in 500 words or less. Do not send unsolicited manuscripts. We take no responsibility for unsolicited material.
Benicia Literary Arts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, dedicated to the belief that our lives and communities are enriched when we remember our stories and art; when we chronicle our past, present, and hopes for the future. And when we create lasting records that celebrate who we are and what we dream. In essence, we work with and support the works of writers, book authors, and those who wish to be. We support educational events that bring literary arts to the visibility of eager readers.
You can send 100% tax-deductible contributions to
Benicia Literary Arts
PO Box 1903
Benicia, CA 94510
Our forthcoming book is Donnell Rubay's With A Dream So Proud: The Life of Stephen Vincent Benet. You might know Benet wrote Devil and Daniel Webster, which won an O. Henry Award in 1936. In his youth, he lived in Benicia.
Be sure to check out Joan Gefland's book of poetry, The Long Blue Room, published in 2014. You can purchase it at Amazon or request a copy at your local bookshop.
Call for Submissions!
Benicia Literary Arts welcomes submissions of manuscripts of previously unpublished fiction, non-fiction, and poetry. No matter what the genre, we value focus and clarity of vision, deep thinking, good writing, and a sense of orientation in time and place. We encourage submissions from both experienced and emerging writers. Only complete, or nearly complete, works will be accepted. Simultaneous submissions are not accepted.
Submission guidelines:
Please send a letter of inquiry to Mary Eichbauer, Editor-in-Chief, via email or by mail to
Mary Eichbauer, Editor-in-Chief
Benicia Literary Arts
PO Box 1903
Benicia, CA 94510
Please include a synopsis or description of the work in 500 words or less. Do not send unsolicited manuscripts. We take no responsibility for unsolicited material.
 |
| City Park in Benicia, California |
Benicia Literary Arts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, dedicated to the belief that our lives and communities are enriched when we remember our stories and art; when we chronicle our past, present, and hopes for the future. And when we create lasting records that celebrate who we are and what we dream. In essence, we work with and support the works of writers, book authors, and those who wish to be. We support educational events that bring literary arts to the visibility of eager readers.
You can send 100% tax-deductible contributions to
Benicia Literary Arts
PO Box 1903
Benicia, CA 94510
 |
| I like to ride my bike to Benicia Literary Arts. |
Sunday, December 6, 2015
Joey Graceffa on the Cover of the Trinidad Issue of 360 Magazine
Volume 25 of 360 Magazine is now available at Magzter and Blurb!
The Trinidad Issue features Joey Graceffa, Talia Rose, ESKA, Alex Honnold, Lulu Scout, Cornbread, Anna Chromy, Futuristic, Louise Bourgeois, and much more.
In this issue, YouTube phenomenon Joey Graceffa discusses how he got his start making videos, what it's been like growing up with an alcoholic mother and autistic brother, how his life has changed since coming out earlier this year, and what his upcoming projects are.
On his birthday this year, as part of his coming-out process, Joey released this music video to his song, "Don't Wait."
The Trinidad Issue features Joey Graceffa, Talia Rose, ESKA, Alex Honnold, Lulu Scout, Cornbread, Anna Chromy, Futuristic, Louise Bourgeois, and much more.
In this issue, YouTube phenomenon Joey Graceffa discusses how he got his start making videos, what it's been like growing up with an alcoholic mother and autistic brother, how his life has changed since coming out earlier this year, and what his upcoming projects are.
On his birthday this year, as part of his coming-out process, Joey released this music video to his song, "Don't Wait."
Saturday, December 5, 2015
San Francisco's Cadillac Hotel Needs You
I recently saw this news segment that San Francisco's Cadillac Hotel was hit with an unexpected $300,000 bill to repair its electrical system.
The non-profit, single-residence occupancy (SRO) hotel must raise $300,000 by December 31, 2015–or face closure and eviction by the city of San Francisco.
The Cadillac Hotel –
– houses 158 low-income residents, who otherwise would likely not be able to afford to live in San Francisco.
– leases space (formerly its grand ballroom) to a federal Head Start program administered by San Francisco State University.
– is where the offices of Doan M. Khong, MD are located. The doctor provides medical care to the Tenderloin's Chinese and Vietnamese immigrants.
– is where the non-profit Clean City and Bay Area Women's & Children's Center are located.
– is the home of the Tenderloin Museum, which highlights the amazing and often wild history of one of San Francisco's most colorful neighborhoods.
Everyone faces eviction if the Cadillac Hotel cannot raise $300,000 by December 31, 2015.
The Cadillac Hotel is owned by Reality House West, a non-profit 501(c)3. Its EIN is 94-1722478. Your contributions are 100% tax deductible. I encourage you to mail your check today to
Reality House West/Cadillac Hotel
380 Eddy Street
San Francisco, CA 94124
When musician Rebecca Roudman heard of the Cadillac Hotel's plight, she jumped into action with a Crowdrise benefit concert, featuring several musicians to help raise money for the Cadillac Hotel.
The concert did raise money, but much more is needed.
The Cadillac Hotel is Historic San Francisco Landmark No. 176.
For many years, its grand ballroom was leased by Newman’s Gym, a legendary training facility for boxers. Muhammed Ali and Mayor Willie Brown are said to have worked out there. Below is a photograph of Miles Davis at the gym.
The day after I saw the news segment, I met with the Cadillac Hotel's executive director, Kathy Looper, who somehow found time to give me a tour of the hotel and the non-profits it houses.
Please visit the Cadillac Hotel's site to learn more about this non-profit in one of San Francisco's poorest neighborhoods. You can donate online at its Crowdrise page or mail your tax-deductible contributions directly to
Reality House West/Cadillac Hotel
380 Eddy Street
San Francisco, CA 94124
The non-profit, single-residence occupancy (SRO) hotel must raise $300,000 by December 31, 2015–or face closure and eviction by the city of San Francisco.
 |
| Cadillac Hotel, built in 1907, a year after San Francisco's great quake. |
The Cadillac Hotel –
– houses 158 low-income residents, who otherwise would likely not be able to afford to live in San Francisco.
– leases space (formerly its grand ballroom) to a federal Head Start program administered by San Francisco State University.
– is where the offices of Doan M. Khong, MD are located. The doctor provides medical care to the Tenderloin's Chinese and Vietnamese immigrants.
– is where the non-profit Clean City and Bay Area Women's & Children's Center are located.
– is the home of the Tenderloin Museum, which highlights the amazing and often wild history of one of San Francisco's most colorful neighborhoods.
Everyone faces eviction if the Cadillac Hotel cannot raise $300,000 by December 31, 2015.
The Cadillac Hotel is owned by Reality House West, a non-profit 501(c)3. Its EIN is 94-1722478. Your contributions are 100% tax deductible. I encourage you to mail your check today to
Reality House West/Cadillac Hotel
380 Eddy Street
San Francisco, CA 94124
When musician Rebecca Roudman heard of the Cadillac Hotel's plight, she jumped into action with a Crowdrise benefit concert, featuring several musicians to help raise money for the Cadillac Hotel.
The concert did raise money, but much more is needed.
The Cadillac Hotel is Historic San Francisco Landmark No. 176.
For many years, its grand ballroom was leased by Newman’s Gym, a legendary training facility for boxers. Muhammed Ali and Mayor Willie Brown are said to have worked out there. Below is a photograph of Miles Davis at the gym.
 |
| Miles Davis against the ropes at Newman's Gym in the Cadillac Hotel. |
 |
| Executive Director Kathy Looper and I in the Tenderloin Museum. |
Please visit the Cadillac Hotel's site to learn more about this non-profit in one of San Francisco's poorest neighborhoods. You can donate online at its Crowdrise page or mail your tax-deductible contributions directly to
Reality House West/Cadillac Hotel
380 Eddy Street
San Francisco, CA 94124
Wednesday, December 2, 2015
BATMAN V SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE
This is what I've been waiting for! There's no doubt I'll be seeing Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice in the theater, since the superhero genre is my favorite. But what makes this trailer for the film due out in 2016 really stand out for me is the first solid appearance of Wonder Woman.
In case you missed it, The New Yorker wrote an amazing article on the origins of Wonder Woman in the comics.
In case you missed it, The New Yorker wrote an amazing article on the origins of Wonder Woman in the comics.
Saturday, November 28, 2015
LOOKING's Finale
 |
| LOOKING's Murray Bartlett, Jonathan Groff, Frankie J. Alvarez & Raúl Castillo |
I think Season 1: Episode 5 is the best American gay television show. Ever.
Monday, November 2, 2015
Gus Kenworthy: "I am gay."
UPDATED December 13, 2015: On October 22, 2015, Olympic medalist and the world's top freeskier Gus Kenworthy came out of the closet on Twitter and in this interview on ESPN.
The more people come out, the faster stereotypes are shattered–and the more role models there are for LGBTQ people still contemplating coming out.
Check out Kyle Krieger's YouTube video, unCUT, in which Gus gets a great haircut and discusses life after coming out.
The more people come out, the faster stereotypes are shattered–and the more role models there are for LGBTQ people still contemplating coming out.
Check out Kyle Krieger's YouTube video, unCUT, in which Gus gets a great haircut and discusses life after coming out.
Thursday, October 15, 2015
THE WIND RIDERS is in the semi finals of the Screencraft Sci-Fi Screenplay Contest
My writing partner Amanda Boggs and I are happy that our feature-length, sci-fi/family adventure screenplay, The Wind Riders, has made it into the semi finals of the Screencraft Sci-Fi Screenplay Contest.
Its logline is
The Wind Riders is about a teenaged, misfit girl who discovers the world's most popular online video game is really a portal to another universe and, with the help of her friends, must take control of the portal before its evil creator can destroy Earth in his quest to rule his home world.
When you jump to this post on the blog, you can read a bit more about us and this project.
The response on Twitter has been a bit intense.
Its logline is
The Wind Riders is about a teenaged, misfit girl who discovers the world's most popular online video game is really a portal to another universe and, with the help of her friends, must take control of the portal before its evil creator can destroy Earth in his quest to rule his home world.
When you jump to this post on the blog, you can read a bit more about us and this project.
The response on Twitter has been a bit intense.
Saturday, October 3, 2015
Sanaa Lathan on the Cover of the Istanbul Issue of 360 Magazine
Volume 24 of 360 Magazine is now available at Magzter and Blurb!
The Istanbul Issue features Sanaa Lathan, the Budweiser Made in America Festival, E5QUIRE, Carl Thornton, Tiger Darrow, Joey Graceffa, Lianne La Havas, Grace Sewell, the Red Bull Global Rallycross (featuring our very own Vaughn Lowery!), DeJ Loaf and much more.
In this issue, Sanaa Lathan discusses her role in The Perfect Guy, her career in Hollywood spanning twenty years, the goals of the Sanaa Lathan Foundation in helping foster girls, and what's in her future in front of and behind the camera.
The Istanbul Issue features Sanaa Lathan, the Budweiser Made in America Festival, E5QUIRE, Carl Thornton, Tiger Darrow, Joey Graceffa, Lianne La Havas, Grace Sewell, the Red Bull Global Rallycross (featuring our very own Vaughn Lowery!), DeJ Loaf and much more.
In this issue, Sanaa Lathan discusses her role in The Perfect Guy, her career in Hollywood spanning twenty years, the goals of the Sanaa Lathan Foundation in helping foster girls, and what's in her future in front of and behind the camera.
Wednesday, September 30, 2015
JESSICA JONES on Netflix
If you're a fan of my blogs, you know I love strong, smart female leads–Veronica Mars, Elena Michaels, Rachel Black–so you bet I cannot wait until November 20 for Netflix to drop the first season of Jessica Jones!
Krysten Ritter stars as Jessica Jones, with Carrie-Anne Moss and David Tennant.
Krysten Ritter stars as Jessica Jones, with Carrie-Anne Moss and David Tennant.
Monday, September 21, 2015
Tim Sweeney at Boiler Room NYC
Here's more great music from Tim Sweeney.
And these are more of my favorite BIS podcasts:
BIS Radio Show # 800 - Part 1 with The Orb
BIS Radio Show # 796 - Part 2 with Tim Sweeney
BIS Radio Show # 793 - Part 1 with The Drifter
BIS Radio Show # 586 - Part 1 with James Murphy
And these are more of my favorite BIS podcasts:
BIS Radio Show # 800 - Part 1 with The Orb
BIS Radio Show # 796 - Part 2 with Tim Sweeney
BIS Radio Show # 793 - Part 1 with The Drifter
BIS Radio Show # 586 - Part 1 with James Murphy
Monday, September 14, 2015
Woolfy's "Looking Glass"
When I write, I often play on repeat a song or two that keeps me focused.
Woolfy's "Looking Glass" is my current obsession, as I work on a project.
Be sure to check out Woolfy on Facebook.
Woolfy's "Looking Glass" is my current obsession, as I work on a project.
Be sure to check out Woolfy on Facebook.
Wednesday, September 2, 2015
Selenis Leyva on the Cover of the Summer 15 Issue of 360 Magazine
Volume 23 of 360 Magazine is now available at Magzter and Blurb!
The Summer 15 issue features Selenis Leyva, Benny Benassi, Hooka Hey, Petite Meller, That Poppy, the Harley-Davidson Museum, Simpang Asia, Vivienne Westwood's Fashion Unfolds and much more.
In this issue, Selenis Leyva discusses how playing Gloria Mendoza on Netflix's Emmy-winning series, Orange Is The New Black, has changed her life, why she wrote this post about her transsexual sister on The Huffington Post, and the many things she looks forward to in the future.
The Summer 15 issue features Selenis Leyva, Benny Benassi, Hooka Hey, Petite Meller, That Poppy, the Harley-Davidson Museum, Simpang Asia, Vivienne Westwood's Fashion Unfolds and much more.
In this issue, Selenis Leyva discusses how playing Gloria Mendoza on Netflix's Emmy-winning series, Orange Is The New Black, has changed her life, why she wrote this post about her transsexual sister on The Huffington Post, and the many things she looks forward to in the future.
Sunday, August 23, 2015
Bob Mizer's 700,000 35mm Transparencies Need You
If you love male models in the fashion and advertising world, now's your chance to help preserve the archives of the man who nearly all by himself invented the concept of male model in 1940's Los Angeles, California.
As you can read in this interview on the blog, Bob Mizer of the Athletic Model Guild was a prolific photographer and filmmaker. In his lifetime, he produced over 1,000,000 negatives, slides, prints and films.
Dennis Bell, the current owner of the Athletic Model Guild and founder of the Bob Mizer Foundation (a 501(c)3 non-profit), is cataloging and archiving every single image and will eventually make the entire collection available for viewing by the general public.
His current Kickstarter campaign is to help finance the proper storage of Mizer's 700,000 35mm transparencies. Yes, you read that right: 700,000.
Money raised by the Foundation pays only for supplies, such as the archival sleeves for negatives and transparencies. Volunteers and interns provide the necessary labor.
If you're a fan of vintage physique photography and/or classic Americana, now's your chance to give what you can to help preserve this precious historical treasure. Because the Bob Mizer Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit, your donation is tax-deductible.
For more information about Bob Mizer, please see the Foundation's website.
You can help support the Bob Mizer Foundation by donating directly at its Kickstarter campaign and website.
There you will find more information on Bob Mizer, the Athletic Model
Guild and the Foundation, including its mailing address for your
donations and updates on gallery shows, screenings and lectures.
As you can read in this interview on the blog, Bob Mizer of the Athletic Model Guild was a prolific photographer and filmmaker. In his lifetime, he produced over 1,000,000 negatives, slides, prints and films.
 |
| Original slide during the sorting process. |
Dennis Bell, the current owner of the Athletic Model Guild and founder of the Bob Mizer Foundation (a 501(c)3 non-profit), is cataloging and archiving every single image and will eventually make the entire collection available for viewing by the general public.
His current Kickstarter campaign is to help finance the proper storage of Mizer's 700,000 35mm transparencies. Yes, you read that right: 700,000.
 |
| This is a small portion of Bob Mizer's estate, prior to its rescue. |
 |
| Some of Mizer's estate now in protective storage. |
 |
| Each transparency is sorted, inserted into sleeves cataloged, photographed and placed into protected storage. |
 |
| Production still from "Why the Wooden Indian Wouldn't." Eddie Scott & Phil Morrison. Los Angeles, 1969. |
Monday, August 17, 2015
Sandy Beach Road in Vallejo, California
My partner, Phil, and I recently attended a party in Vallejo, California on Sandy Beach Road, which is mostly a long dirt trail. All of the waterfront homes there are built over the Napa River.
We were amazed to see playing at the house party this short film uploaded to YouTube by the GLBT History Society. It was created in 1947 by an amateur filmmaker. The houses are better constructed today, but this is very much how Sandy Beach Road remains some seventy years later.
 |
| The mailman won't hike Sandy Beach Road, so the mailboxes came to him. |
We were amazed to see playing at the house party this short film uploaded to YouTube by the GLBT History Society. It was created in 1947 by an amateur filmmaker. The houses are better constructed today, but this is very much how Sandy Beach Road remains some seventy years later.
Sunday, August 9, 2015
SENSE8 Renewed for a Second Season
Today I was thrilled to find out the Netflix original series, Sense8, has been renewed for a second season.
When you jump to this post on the blog, you can read my review of Sense8. I love the series. My review is the most Twitter-engaged blog post I've made to date.
Be sure to follow the series on Twitter for updates from the cast and creators.
Tweets by @sense8
When you jump to this post on the blog, you can read my review of Sense8. I love the series. My review is the most Twitter-engaged blog post I've made to date.
Be sure to follow the series on Twitter for updates from the cast and creators.
Tweets by @sense8
Friday, July 24, 2015
SK and Calla Cover Sam Smith's "Stay With Me"
I've said it before and I'll say it again: Twitter is amazing.
That's how I met SK. I really enjoy the cover he and Calla (aka Brandon Calladine) do together of Sam Smith's smash hit, "Stay With Me."
This video was shot while SK was visiting Calla in Perth, Australia. Be sure to follow SK and Calla on Twitter.
That's how I met SK. I really enjoy the cover he and Calla (aka Brandon Calladine) do together of Sam Smith's smash hit, "Stay With Me."
This video was shot while SK was visiting Calla in Perth, Australia. Be sure to follow SK and Calla on Twitter.
Thursday, July 2, 2015
David Guetta on the Cover of the California Golden Bear Issue of 360 Magazine
Volume 22 of 360 Magazine is now available at Magzter and Blurb!
Known
as the California Golden Bear issue, it features David Guetta, Hilary Duff, Bastille, Clean Bandit, Mr. Probz, Bebe Rexha, Kidnap Kid, Disclosure, the World of Speed motorsports museum, and much more.
In this issue, David Guetta discusses the effect house music has had on his career and life, his upcoming release on his label, Jack Back Records, and why he is working with Yoko Ono on the UNICEF campaign #IMAGINE.
The official video to his song, "Hey Mama," features Nicki Minaj, Bebe Rexha and Afrojack.
In this issue, David Guetta discusses the effect house music has had on his career and life, his upcoming release on his label, Jack Back Records, and why he is working with Yoko Ono on the UNICEF campaign #IMAGINE.
The official video to his song, "Hey Mama," features Nicki Minaj, Bebe Rexha and Afrojack.
Tuesday, June 30, 2015
FEARLESS: PORTRAITS OF LGBT STUDENT ATHLETES by Jeff Sheng
Now available here for $39.50 is Jeff Sheng's hardcover photo book, FEARLESS: Portraits of LGBT Student Athletes.
From 2003 to 2015, Sheng photographed 202 lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender high school and college athletes in the United States and Canada. He says he began this book as a self-exploration of his identity as a closeted high school athlete in the 1990's. Accompanying many of the images are intimate essays written by the out athletes.
The afterword is by retired professional NBA basketball player, Jason Collins.
The 316-page book offers eight covers to choose from. Be sure to visit fearlessbookstore.com to see them all, read excerpts by the athletes, and purchase this book.
From 2003 to 2015, Sheng photographed 202 lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender high school and college athletes in the United States and Canada. He says he began this book as a self-exploration of his identity as a closeted high school athlete in the 1990's. Accompanying many of the images are intimate essays written by the out athletes.
The afterword is by retired professional NBA basketball player, Jason Collins.
The 316-page book offers eight covers to choose from. Be sure to visit fearlessbookstore.com to see them all, read excerpts by the athletes, and purchase this book.
Saturday, June 20, 2015
SUPERGIRL
If you're a fan of this blog, you know I love female leads in film and television. I can't get enough, especially after the departure of Buffy and Veronica Mars, so you know this trailer for CBS's new series, Supergirl, made my day.
I'm looking forward to watching Melissa Benoist bring alive Superman's cousin, Kara Zor-El–and Calista Flockhart play her tough-as-nails boss.
I'm looking forward to watching Melissa Benoist bring alive Superman's cousin, Kara Zor-El–and Calista Flockhart play her tough-as-nails boss.
Tuesday, June 9, 2015
SENSE8 Review
I'd seen the preview for Netflix's 12-part Sense8 and, intrigued, began watching it June 5, 2015, when all 12 episodes dropped at once.
Created and written by Andy Wachowski and Lana Wachowski (The Matrix franchise) and J. Michael Straczynski (Babylon 5), it stars Miguel Ángel Silvestre, Jamie Clayton, Aml Ameen, Doona Bae, Tuppence Middleton, Max Riemelt, Brian J. Smith and Tina Desai, as 8 people in different parts of the world whose lives are transformed when they begin to share their consciousness with one another.
Sense8 is a paranormal, erotic thriller. As noted by critics, the story begins slowly, mysteriously and isn't quick to reveal itself. But when the 12th episode ended, I was absolutely stunned. Sense8 has a huge cast spanning the globe. It is beautifully shot. It is the most glorious television show I've ever seen.
4 of the 8 people who together become "a cluster" are male, the other 4 female. They are straight, gay, transsexual and, maybe even, bisexual. The women are equally strong and important as the men. There are even wonderful shout-outs to Diana Prince and Nancy Drew. (One thrilling episode is titled "W.W.N. Double D?" or "What Would Nancy Drew Do?") The 8 main characters are connected on a profoundly emotional level–Imagine if you and someone else suddenly knew and felt everything the other had experienced and was experiencing during your entire lives. Yes, I mean everything.
There are stereotypes–a Mexican film action hero living a soap-operatic double life; a righteous South Korean martial-arts champion; a world-class computer hacker living in San Francisco–but these stereotypes are adroitly upended, as the emotional lives of the characters are explored in rich detail to reveal each individual as wholly unique.
When the sinister consequences of the cluster become clear, it is also evident that each of the 8 is important for being uniquely themselves, for it is the strengths and knowledge each has accumulated over their individual life journey that now protect and enhance the lives of the others in the cluster.
I won't reveal plot points–It's a thriller, after all, so the action sequences are enthralling!–but I will note a moment that beautifully sums up Sense8: One of the 8 becomes lost in the annual, massive festival celebrating a god. A child takes their hand and says, "Come. This way. Come," leading the way through the jubilant crowd to a statue of the god. The child then shows the way inside and up into the statue's papier-mâché head so that the main character can peer through its eyeholes to see the revelry as the god's statue sees: unfolding forever is the interconnected, unstoppable, glorious magnificence of life.
Created and written by Andy Wachowski and Lana Wachowski (The Matrix franchise) and J. Michael Straczynski (Babylon 5), it stars Miguel Ángel Silvestre, Jamie Clayton, Aml Ameen, Doona Bae, Tuppence Middleton, Max Riemelt, Brian J. Smith and Tina Desai, as 8 people in different parts of the world whose lives are transformed when they begin to share their consciousness with one another.
Sense8 is a paranormal, erotic thriller. As noted by critics, the story begins slowly, mysteriously and isn't quick to reveal itself. But when the 12th episode ended, I was absolutely stunned. Sense8 has a huge cast spanning the globe. It is beautifully shot. It is the most glorious television show I've ever seen.
4 of the 8 people who together become "a cluster" are male, the other 4 female. They are straight, gay, transsexual and, maybe even, bisexual. The women are equally strong and important as the men. There are even wonderful shout-outs to Diana Prince and Nancy Drew. (One thrilling episode is titled "W.W.N. Double D?" or "What Would Nancy Drew Do?") The 8 main characters are connected on a profoundly emotional level–Imagine if you and someone else suddenly knew and felt everything the other had experienced and was experiencing during your entire lives. Yes, I mean everything.
 |
| A Nancy Drew moment occurs at Atlas Cafe, near where I work. |
There are stereotypes–a Mexican film action hero living a soap-operatic double life; a righteous South Korean martial-arts champion; a world-class computer hacker living in San Francisco–but these stereotypes are adroitly upended, as the emotional lives of the characters are explored in rich detail to reveal each individual as wholly unique.
When the sinister consequences of the cluster become clear, it is also evident that each of the 8 is important for being uniquely themselves, for it is the strengths and knowledge each has accumulated over their individual life journey that now protect and enhance the lives of the others in the cluster.
I won't reveal plot points–It's a thriller, after all, so the action sequences are enthralling!–but I will note a moment that beautifully sums up Sense8: One of the 8 becomes lost in the annual, massive festival celebrating a god. A child takes their hand and says, "Come. This way. Come," leading the way through the jubilant crowd to a statue of the god. The child then shows the way inside and up into the statue's papier-mâché head so that the main character can peer through its eyeholes to see the revelry as the god's statue sees: unfolding forever is the interconnected, unstoppable, glorious magnificence of life.
Monday, June 1, 2015
Jean Cocteau at Wessel + O'Connor Fine Art from May 16 to July 26, 2015
As I note in this post on the blog, Jean Cocteau's La Belle et La Bete is my all-time favorite film. So, it must be no surprise I was thrilled to find out several drawings by Cocteau are on exhibit at Wessel + O'Connor Fine Art from May 16 to July 26, 2015.
Some are pornographic in nature.
All are exquisite.
Some are pornographic in nature.
All are exquisite.
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| "Untitled" pencil on vellum, ca.1950's |
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| "Essais pour l'affiche du Festival de Musique de Menton, 1956" |
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| "Je me souviens de l'avenir." Venise 1956 |
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| "Venise 1956 II"1956 |
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| Lithograph includes Portrait of Jean Cocteau by Picasso dated 1916 |
Monday, May 11, 2015
Fifth Harmony on the Cover of the Black Wolf Issue of 360 Magazine
Volume 21 of 360 Magazine is now available at Magzter and Blurb!
Known
as the Black Wolf issue, it features Fifth Harmony, Cody Simpson, The Janoskians, Neena Patel Williams, Lus Sahagun's "Escombros," Jason Dussault, and much more.
Fifth Harmony is Camila Cabello, Lauren Jauregui, Dinah Jane Hansen, Normani Hamilton and Ally Brooke Hernandez. Ally Brooke Hernandez discusses their hit debut album, Reflection, what it was like to meet First Lady Michelle Obama, the 5H girls' philanthropic work, life on tour, and what's next for the 5H girls.
Friday, April 17, 2015
"Just Breathe" by Pearl Jam at Live At Austin City Limits
Pearl Jam performs "Just Breathe," which is the second single from their album,
Backspacer, live at Austin City Limits in 2009.
It's one of my favorite songs sung by Eddie Vedder.
"Just Breathe" is available on iTunes, Amazon, and in the Pearl Jam shop.
It's one of my favorite songs sung by Eddie Vedder.
"Just Breathe" is available on iTunes, Amazon, and in the Pearl Jam shop.
Wednesday, April 8, 2015
Steve Grand's debut album, ALL AMERICAN BOY
Independent artist and openly gay singer-songwriter Steve Grand released his debut album, All American Boy, on March 29, 2014.
The album topped out at No. 47 on the Billboard 200, No. 27 on Top Album Sales and No. 3 on Independent Albums. It continues to sell well.
The video to the single, "Time," was released to coincide with the album release.
When you jump to this post on the blog, you can read about his record-breaking Kickstarter campaign. And when you go here, you can see his self-funded music video, "All American Boy," which went viral.
The album topped out at No. 47 on the Billboard 200, No. 27 on Top Album Sales and No. 3 on Independent Albums. It continues to sell well.
The video to the single, "Time," was released to coincide with the album release.
When you jump to this post on the blog, you can read about his record-breaking Kickstarter campaign. And when you go here, you can see his self-funded music video, "All American Boy," which went viral.
Sunday, March 1, 2015
Steve Aoki on the Cover of the African Golden Cat Issue of 360 Magazine
Volume 20 of 360 Magazine is now available at Magzter and Blurb!
Known as the African Golden Cat issue, it features Steve Aoki, Bruce Springsteen, Jane Weitzman, designs by Elizabeth, Danielle Taylor, LA Brownies, Miri Ben-Ari, Alex Garibyan, and much more.
Steve Aoki discusses how his life and career were greatly influenced by his being raised as an outsider in a non-Japanese community, the origins of Dim Mak Records, how his father's passing in 2008 affected him personally and creatively, his next album "Neon Future II," and what lies ahead for him in the coming decade.
Wednesday, February 25, 2015
"Dusky Darling Love" by Bright Smoke
Singer and artist Bright Smoke released the music video for her song, "Dusky Darling Love."
I love her voice and songs so much.
When you jump to this post on the blog, you can read my interview with Bright Smoke.
I love her voice and songs so much.
When you jump to this post on the blog, you can read my interview with Bright Smoke.
Friday, February 13, 2015
The Age of Adaline
Anyone who knows me knows well my obsession with female leads, thrillers and supernatural thrillers.
The film The Age of Adaline is a heady mix of all three of these. It stars Blake Lively as Adaline Bowman, a woman who becomes ageless after an accident near the middle of the last century.
Harrison Ford plays her friend, William Jones, who reconnects with Adaline decades after they first meet–and when she should have aged decades, too.
Michiel Huisman plays Ellis Jones, who might lead Adaline toward a better understanding of herself.
The stellar cast includes Ellen Burstyn and my Twitter pal, Anthony Ingruber, who is astonishing as Harrison Ford's character's younger self.
The Age of Adaline opens in theaters on April 24, 2015. Yes, I'll be there opening day.
The film The Age of Adaline is a heady mix of all three of these. It stars Blake Lively as Adaline Bowman, a woman who becomes ageless after an accident near the middle of the last century.
Harrison Ford plays her friend, William Jones, who reconnects with Adaline decades after they first meet–and when she should have aged decades, too.
Michiel Huisman plays Ellis Jones, who might lead Adaline toward a better understanding of herself.
The stellar cast includes Ellen Burstyn and my Twitter pal, Anthony Ingruber, who is astonishing as Harrison Ford's character's younger self.
The Age of Adaline opens in theaters on April 24, 2015. Yes, I'll be there opening day.
Saturday, January 24, 2015
"Will This Give Me Cancer or Not" by Attic Abasement
Thanks to starting each week morning off by listening to UC Berkeley's KALX, I'm pleased to announce my new obsession is Attic Abasement's "Will This Give Me Cancer or Not."
The song is from a split album between the band and Nod, another band from Rochester, New York.
Attic Abasement is Mike Rheinheimer (guitars, singing), J. Repp (guitars), Keith Parkins (bass), and Darren DeWispelaere (drums).
They are currently playing shows, writing songs, and making records around Rochester, New York.
The split album with Nod came out on Carbon Records on April 19, 2014.
The song is from a split album between the band and Nod, another band from Rochester, New York.
Attic Abasement is Mike Rheinheimer (guitars, singing), J. Repp (guitars), Keith Parkins (bass), and Darren DeWispelaere (drums).
They are currently playing shows, writing songs, and making records around Rochester, New York.
The split album with Nod came out on Carbon Records on April 19, 2014.
Saturday, January 10, 2015
Second Season World Premiere of LOOKING
Looking is set in San Francisco, where it was also filmed. The series centers around three gay friends: Paddy (Jonathan Groff), a twenty-something video-game programmer looking for love; Agustín (Frankie J. Alvarez), a former artist now adrift; and Dom (Murray Bartlett), a long-time waiter hoping to open his own restaurant.
The second season picks up a few months after the first season left off. Happily, HBO bumped up the length of this season for a total of ten episodes.
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| Raúl Castillo, Murray Bartlett, Frankie J. Alvarez, Lauren Weedman, Jonathan Groff, Daniel Franzese (Photo: Drew Altizer Photography) |
It was great to see Raúl Castillo returning as Richie, a barber who dated Paddy in the first season.
Lauren Weedman again plays Doris, the wise-cracking, no-nonsense ex-girlfriend of Dom's.
Daniel Franzese comes on board this season as Eddie, the first gay character on the show to self-identify as a bear and to be HIV positive.
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| Frankie J. Alvarez, Jonathan Groff, Raúl Castillo, Murray Bartlett |
Creator/Co-Executive Producer Michael Lannan says Looking is about "looking for authentic ways of being in the world." During the Q&A session after the screening, he said it was no coincidence Paddy and the others find themselves at the beginning of each season outdoors and away from the noise of their city lives.
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| Daniel Franzese |
Director/Co-Executive Producer Andrew Haigh again skips the cliched, soaring shots of San Francisco's landmarks and tourist traps. Instead, he brings the camera down to street level, where the characters actually live in The City.
The intimacy Haigh thus creates is arresting, especially during the nude scenes: you are there with the characters and feel their emotional need to connect as their bodies connect and separate. (Yes, there is full-frontal male nudity this season.)
On the red carpet, I spoke briefly to the actors. Daniel Franzese was as affable as his character Eddie.
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| Lauren Weedman |
I enjoyed speaking with Lauren Weedman. She kept firing zingers one after another.
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| Frankie J. Alvarez |
Frankie J. Alvarez had a sweet, intelligent focus not yet seen in his character, Agustin.
Frankie said not to give up on Agustín, be sure to keep watching the second season.
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| Raúl Castillo |
I haven't yet seen all ten episodes of the second season, but suspect Raúl Castillo's Richie will continue to be the emotionally centered man Paddy is seeking.
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| Murray Bartlett |
My camera battery died a moment before Murray Bartlett stepped over to me. I was happy he stopped to say hello.
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| Cast on stage after screening first 2 episodes of LOOKING's second season (Photo: Drew Altizer Photography) |
The cast and executive producers came on stage for a Q&A session with the audience. Here, Lauren Weedman admits she often goes off script and ad libs her lines.
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| LOOKING's after party at Terra Gallery in SOMA |
The after party celebrating the premiere was at Terra Gallery.
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| Michael Denison, Murray Bartlett and his friend |
When I walked up to Murray Bartlett, he said, "Nice to see you again," and posed for this photograph.
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| Michael Denison and Jonathan Groff |
Jonathan Groff was surrounded by fans and press. I was very pleased he took a moment to pose with me.
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| Christopher Turner, Michael Denison and Armistead Maupin |
If you're a fan of this blog, you know I recently interviewed Emmy and Peabody award-winning TV writer, director, producer Richard Kramer.
Richard worked with Armistead Maupin on the mini-series adaption of the first installment of Armistead's acclaimed book series, Tales of the City, about people living in San Francisco.
I am a huge fan of Tales, so I was thrilled to meet Armistead and his husband, Christopher Turner.
Like Tales, Looking draws you into a circle of friends you soon find yourself rooting for, as they live and love in San Francisco.
The second season of Looking premieres January 11, 2015 on HBO.
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