6.19.13 #54
PHILIP BONNEAU Reveals His Ugly Simple Truths Grab Your Joysticks:
Joystick Gamebar
Mixes Games and Drinks
DEEP INSIDE
GaymerX
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m o r f e t o r N o t A the Edi 6.19.13 Issue #54
STAFF MANAGEMENT David Thompson Publisher | david@davidatlanta.com Elijah Sarkesian Editor in Chief elijah@davidatlanta.com Joe Ragsdale Art Director ragsdale@davidatlanta.com Bob Gunby Sales Director | bob@davidatlanta.com
EDITORIAL Rian Ashlei Chris Azzopardi Paul Conroy Christina Dore Kelli Goldman Van Gower Nicholas Grant Dylan Michael Clayton Morey Brent Star Taylor Trimble
SALES Steve Tyrrell steve@davidatlanta.com
PHOTOGRAPHY Vandreena Cotton Brian Hughes
WEB / SOCIAL MEDIA Dylan Michael
DISTRIBUTION Lateasha Hall
Exploring All Things Geek
E
ven though I’ve been a lifelong fan of so-called geeky things like video games and superheroes, it’s only been in the past few years that I’ve become immersed in gay geek culture. A huge part of this is due to my boyfriend, whose encyclopedic knowledge of Pokémon is perhaps only eclipsed by his hardcore dedication to Dungeons and Dragons. Thanks to him, I now have a deeper knowledge of how just how queer-friendly the comic book world is, for example. While we’re on opposing sides of the DC vs. Marvel debate (my stance: Batman’s the best), I’ve been impressed by Marvel’s gay characters like Young Avengers’ Wiccan and Hulkling, who provide positive non-normative characters for readers.
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This week, we’re having some fun with fellow gay geeks. We catch up with Philip Bonneau, whose taken his love of superheroes public with Heroes + Villains, and the owners of Joystick Gamebar, where patrons can play old-school games while drinking. So for all you gaymers and geeks, this issue is for you!
Elijah Sarkesian The content of this Publication is for your general information and use only. It is subject to change without notice. The opinions expressed by any writer, advertiser, or other person appearing in the Magazine are not necessarily those of the Publication, its management or staff. The information and materials appearing in the Magazine are not guaranteed or warranted as to accuracy, timeliness, performance, completeness, or suitability of the information and materials found or offered for a particular purpose. It shall be your responsibility to ensure that any products, services, or information available through this Publication meets your specific requirements. The Publication is not responsible for claims made by advertisers, content of information, changes, events, and schedules. The Magazine contains information and material which is owned by or licensed to the Publication, including but not limited to articles, advertisement, design, layout, graphics, and logos. No part or portion of this Publication may be reproduced in any way without the prior written consent of the Publisher. Unauthorized use of this Publication may give rise to claims for damages and or criminal offenses. Your use of the information or materials in the Publication is strictly at your own risk.
TOC
6.19.13 Issue #54
Cover > Philip Bonneau 16 Joystick Gamebar 28 GaymerX 34
Feature > ‘Drop Dead Diva’ Screen Queen
52 60
Seen@ > GLAAD at Zocalo’s 10 Friends on Ponce 26 Joystick Gamebar 38 My Sister’s Room 50 Atlanta Eagle 64 Cockpit 74
16
28
34
52
The Rest > Untucked with Brent Star 12 the Scene 42 Bartab 44 Datebook 46 Fairyscopes 72 Classifieds 73 Bitch, Please! 76
COVER: PHOTOGRAPHER & MODEL Philip Bonneau 8 // davidatlanta.com
10 // davidatlanta.com
The Lady Shabazz Resurrects Sunday Nights at 10th and Piedmont Maybe “resurrect” is a strong word, but at least I didn’t call her Jesus! For over two years now, there hasn’t been any celebratory fanfare happenings on Sunday nights at the corner of 10th and Piedmont. However, since May 12, that has changed. Just as I was walking out of Caribou Coffee on that same corner, I just happened to notice the fanfare across the street and immediately ran through my mental calendar and couldn’t figure out why was there such a big crowd, loud music and folks cheering on the drag queens performing in the “upscale-ish” restaurant known as 10th area.” Damn. I’m so proud of her because just think, how and Piedmont. many of us have had those type of thoughts where we’d Being nosey, I crossed the street to see what the hell was say to ourselves, “Hmmm, there needs to be blah blah blah” or “I should blah blah blah” but never actually do going on. As I got closer, I heard a familiar voice. It was anything about it? Well she did and the place is packed! none other than The Lady Shabazz. She hosts her own It’s a very diverse mixed crowd. show there called Flashback Showgirls, beginning at 8 p.m. Sunday evenings. Speaking of the crowd, I like how Shabazz occasionally engages them in contests. At one point, two volunteers The cast includes pageant queen Nichelle Paris, who came up and competed in a “twerking contest” (“twerkcame out looking fabulous wearing nothing but a jacket (well, until she took that off!); the Cher impersonator and ing” is a dance where you “work” that ass by bouncing it well known Savannah Leigh (I want that curly maroon wig up and down with a lot of speed). It’s not even a holiday, she wore during her second number!); the ghetto queen, but with all this champagne and high energy in this place, booty poppin’ and wig snatching Latesha Shante Shuntel I feel like celebrating! The occasion? This new Sunday (it was exciting to see how the crowd was going to react night party at 10th and Piedmont restaurant. Burp. to her gangsta’ rated R style—they ate it!); the beautiful queen from Burkharts, Angelica D’ Paige, who grabs the P.S. Another reason to celebrate is my Birthday show mic occasionally; and this week’s special guest, decked coming up this Thursday, June 20 at the Laughing Skull! out in one of her own unique and clever costumes, Ms. You’re invited! Regina Ryan! And when I say “celebratory”, this restaurant boasts its $3 champagne specials to get you in the Brent Star’s Performance Schedule: right mood (burp!). Mondays: Cowtippers (Bingo) 8pm June 20: My Birthday show at The Laughing Skull, The Lady Shabazz actually works there and she felt that 10:30pm for “The Brent Star Variety Show” “There needs to be a show again on Sunday nights in this 12 // davidatlanta.com
@DavidAtlantaGA // 13
™
El 27 de junio es el Día Nacional de la Prueba del VIH.
Soy un amigo, Latino y un educador comunitario.
José (en el centro) vive con el VIH desde 2001.
Tengo pareja, soy editor y me gusta correr.
Oriol (izquierda) vive con el VIH desde 1992.
Somos pareja, defensores y amigos.
Anselmo (izquierda) y José (derecha) han vivido con el VIH desde 1995.
Soy un amigo, un estudiante, y un hijo.
Saloman (derecha) vive con el VIH desde 2006.
Más de un millón de personas viven con el VIH en los Estados Unidos.
Infórmese. Hágase la prueba. Participe. www.cdc.gov/ActAgainstAIDS/Spanish
Síganos por Internet en:
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™
June 27th is National HIV Testing Day.
I am a friend, a Latino, and a peer educator.
JosĂŠ (center) has lived with HIV since 2001.
I am a best friend, a poet and a cook.
Antron (right) has lived with HIV since 2004.
I am a writer, a social worker, and a friend.
I am a best friend, a blogger, and an advocate.
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Craig (right) has lived with HIV since 1985.
Mark has lived with HIV since 1985.
More than one million people are living with HIV in the U.S.
Get the facts. Get tested. Get involved. www.cdc.gov/ActAgainstAIDS
Follow us online at:
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@TalkHIV
The Ugly Simple Truths of
Philip Bonneau BY CHRISTINA DORE
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PHOTOS BY: PHILIP BONNEAU
It’s Philip Bonneau’s world, and we’re just living in it.
This series was always inspired by my childhood and my grandfather who was and still is a comic book fanatic. I am sure he had no idea the seed he planted in me when I was a child, but with every new image I produce Since we spoke with Bonneau in 2012 about his Heroes + and show him, he just smiles. After doing my first show Villains series and the Kickstarter campaign that helped which was loosely based on Alice in Wonderland, I was fund it, the artist’s popularity has only grown. Thanks to still trying to find my voice and who I was as an artist. I appearances at various art exhibitions and conventions conceived H+V as a four-part series focusing on what I across the country, not to mention one twist on a certain knew most about. Through the series, comics and geek classic sci-fi classic going viral, Bonneau has fans all over culture helped me explore different techniques and to find the world waiting for more. out exactly who I am. It really has been designed in my head to represent four different stages of life: childhood, As he prepares for the opening of his new show, Ugly teenager, adult and the mature stages. Simple Truths, we caught up with Bonneau and discussed what’s next for Heroes + Villains, what audiences can Recently, Star Trek’s George Takei made expect from Ugly Simple Truths, and his George Takei a Facebook post referencing you and your moment. perspective on Star Trek. That must have been pretty damn exciting. For those who are unfamiliar, could you briefly describe your H + V work? What inspired you to George Takei reposting my Uhura image was like winning create this portfolio? not only the gay lottery, but the geek lottery as well. I can not imagine anyone outside of maybe Grumpy Cat Heroes + Villains is a series of reconnecting people with who has as much Internet clout as that man does. For their imagination and remembering what it is like pretend me it was an even greater honor because that image as a child. Using everyday items and a minimal budget, represents characters and people that he has known I re-imagine characters from comics, Disney, Saturday personally for over fifty years. To get that stamp of apmorning cartoons, and have even expanded into video proval from him was incredible. The image was based on games and science fiction. It’s loosely based on cosplay the Kirk/Uhura first interracial kiss broadcast, but was photography, but really is more about the people I am modernized to represent where we are as a community photographing than the characters themselves. Still, there on LGBT rights. Everything about the shot just worked out is definitely character commentary present as well—it all perfectly. depends on how you want to look at the images. Ultimately, this series is a celebration of individuality and takes into consideration that not everyone’s desires and dreams were what society would of embraced. It’s a social challenge of acceptance of one another.
Philip Bonneau
How do you find and choose your models/subjects? Most of my models are everyday people that you see everyday. I tend to stay away from professional models because I really just see all my friends and family as these characters. Some of these models have never done a photo shoot before in their life. I have never said ‘no’ to anyone who held a desire to be a certain character. I also love when I start thinking outside the box and they actually get excited and suggest something that I would not have originally saw them as. My last issue in this fourpart series involved predominantly drag representations of the comic book and Disney worlds. In the past you’ve shared with us at David Atlanta how your grandfather and comics were pivotal role models for you as an artist. @DavidAtlantaGA // 17
Do you have any upcoming H + V shows? Tell me about those and your expectations. I am so overwhelmed and humbled by the support and backing I have gotten with the series. Heroes + Villains has taken me to places I never imagined I would go to. One of those places is New York this Fall for a solo show. We are still working out all the details, but I wanted to do what my series has done from day one: benefit the community that has helped evolve it. My first two issues were shown at the MISTER (Men’s Information Services: Testing, Empowerment and Resources) Center and it introduced people to the facility and their services. My third issue went to benefit AID Atlanta. In New York, it is planned to show forty pieces of my work to benefit not only the LGBT center in Chelsea, but also the charity group GeeksOut!, who have been supporters of me from the very beginning. 18 // davidatlanta.com
During talks with the center and GeeksOut!, I expressed that I wanted this to be a fun communal event as it has been in Atlanta. I could not ask for a better situation. I’ve chosen most of the pieces for the show and will be shooting some new characters over the summer to fill in the gaps and diversify the works more. My series has only one more “canon” issue left. After New York, I will be casting and shooting my final collection of Heroes + Villains. It will definitely be stylistically different than any of the other issues and will make for a true book end to this series that means so much to me. You have another show coming up called Ugly Simple Truths. Tell us more about that. Ugly Simple Truths examines people turning into their own demons and also personifies them through the use of black light photography. Instead of the show being focused solely on my narrative, I publicly advertised
@DavidAtlantaGA // 19
to prospective participants that I wanted to know their struggles, their stories and their feelings and that I wanted to give them the platform to help them process and grow from that. It is meant to be a discussion board for topics that are not normally discussed. At the very least, I wanted to showcase to others that no one is ever alone in the things that have happened in our past. I had an tremendous amount of applications and was deeply moved by how open people can be when given the chance for someone to listen. This series showcases my foundation as an artist. It is who I am as a human and it shows that with time we can all grow from things of the past. It’s a risk, it’s something different and my models and I have thrown a lot of ourselves into it, but the spirit of otherworldliness is there as well as the right intentions of helping others. This entire series is my Divine Comedy. The show opens July 19th at the The Suite Spot. Nearly a year ago is when we first chatted with you about your H+V series. Since then, how do you feel you have developed as an artist and individual? When Elijah first interviewed me last year was right around the time that my Kickstarter ended and was successfully funded. The amount of responsibility I felt for that show and the pressure for success can not be stated enough. I thought Kickstarter was stressful—I had basically been given a blank check and said, ‘OK kid...go play! 20 // davidatlanta.com
We believe in you!’ With that show, I had over 30 different characters and I found myself not holding back. I took chances and risks. The Kickstarter project really opened up a level of confidence that I knew was there, but was still trying to bring it out. The opening night of that show at I.D. Lab had over six hundred attendees, acrobats, food donated by Bad Dog Taqueria and Svedka was a sponsor. A community really came together for a single evening and remembered what it was like to be a kid again. I paid back to the community and raised over $5,000 dollars for AID Atlanta. It appears that the fear of becoming a “starving artist” hasn’t really impeded on your work and drive at all. 22 // davidatlanta.com
For me, photography has not been my career. I have a 9 to 5, so I’ve let things be pure and I do the shoots I want to shoot, rather than using my art to survive. I expect to miss and sometimes I do, but I keep working at it daily. I like seeing where this is going and honestly I’ve never would have imagined where I have been in a year. I was the only artist for a Sigourney Weaver art show in New York to have two pieces in the show. I’ve been to Chicago with my works, and recently OutlantaCon announced as their 2014 Guest of Honor. A year ago, I was basically begging for people to believe in me and I’m now heading to NYC to show my work. To me, art just pays for itself. In so many ways I am still very much that person a year ago with my determination
and drive, but somewhere over the past year I found my voice. Now I’m just fine tuning that and molding it. I think if anything has changed I’m allowing myself to be just a little bit slower these days about getting to that destination that I was working on.
wants to feel special and everyone has a story. That is something that strikes very heavily in the LGBT community, especially now when we are on the brink of equality.
When I went to Chicago for C2E2, the people that really knew my work were all straight, and they loved and understood Among other things, but overall, your work seems it. In the beginning of my H+V series, people did not really understand me and what I was doing. Some just saw it to cover acceptance in the human society. as superhero porn. I’ve felt that it has always been about My photographs attempts to find beauty in any situation. tackling human emotions and the search of acceptance as an individual. If I could find the solution to that, it would It always challenges me to appreciate and work with what I have and be grateful for it. At the very core, my works bridge the gap between one audience and another. Seeing are and probably always will about looking for acceptance my art help bridge that gap has been my most satisfying and understanding. I am always trying to build connections achievement in my entire life. After all, change comes one between people. Everyone wants to be accepted. Everyone person at a time. @DavidAtlantaGA // 23
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26 // davidatlanta.com
GRAB YOUR
photo: J Cassoni Photography [From left: Brandon Ley. Truman (model), Johnny Martinez
A
tlanta is a city rife with numerous high-concept bars and nightclubs all clamoring to be the Next Big Thing and to be the hot spot where all the prettiest, trendiest people go for a night on the town. But sometimes being too trendy can be more of a curse than a blessing, as the many failed concept bars would attest to. After all, most trends come and go quickly. That’s why they’re called trends.
David Atlanta chatted with Joystick’s owners Johnny Martinez and Brandon Ley to get the lowdown on doing their own thing, nerdy gays, and helping to resurrect patrons’ lost childhoods.
One Atlanta bar that is very likely to defy that curse is Joystick Gamebar. It’s doing so by looking not forward, but backward; the year-old bar is packed with vintage arcade games. Yeah, the upright cabinet-style ones like you played in your youth. And, of course, there’s a full bar stocked with enough alcohol to lubricate your social inhibitions and perhaps even give your game skills a little enthusiastic boost.
Brandon: Johnny moreso than me. Johnny: It’s true. I like to indulge myself. Brandon: I think I used to call my eighth grade class a bunch of whippersnappers and then complain I didn’t understand their fashion choices. Oy, kids these days. Johnny: Some people are old souls. Brandon is a cantankerous one.
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Joystick Gamebar is the ultimate arcade for grown-ups. Are you guys a couple of big kids at heart?
JOYSTICKS Local Gay-Owned Bar Combines Arcade Games and Booze By Van Gower
I have to admit, Joystick is a really original concept: classic arcade games, plenty of great booze, and lots of hip, attractive people. What sparked the idea for you guys, and when did you dream it up? Brandon: Years ago, I was struggling to come up with a good first date idea and mentioned that Atlanta should have an arcade like Ground Kontrol in Portland. Johnny: When we knew we were moving forward on opening a bar, we went back to that idea and wanted to bring the concept here but done our way. There are actually quite a few bar-arcades being opened around the country, and we didn’t want someone to beat us to it in Atlanta. Brandon: The “hip, attractive people” were always in our concept, though. They’re mentioned in the business plan.
When did Joystick open? Brandon: Our doors finally opened in August of 2012, so we’re still babies. But getting to that point wasn’t easy. We have a lot of respect for people who can navigate City Hall. The red tape can be thicker than ‘70s porn bush, although there are a few outstanding individual city employees. What are some of the arcade games at Joystick that we all might remember fondly? Johnny: It’s such a wide range in terms of when the games came out that everyone, no matter their age, comes in and says, “Oh! I used to play this all the time as a kid!” It’s probably said most frequently about Galaga, Street Fighter II, and X-Men. Brandon: There is certainly an affection people have for @DavidAtlantaGA // 29
Johnny: Two pinballs, with a secret special guest third pinball visiting for this summer. But no pools tables. Are you guys both gay? Johnny: Yes, but not together. Brandon: I’m gay for pay, but I do a lot of pro bono work. It seems delightfully refreshing and new for two gay business owners to open an establishment that isn’t specifically meant to be a gay bar. Did you guys intentionally steer away from that usual route?
photo: Joystick Gamebar
that part of their childhood. It’s cool to see now how those games people loved so much created a legitimate art form and major industry. In fact, Museum of Design Atlanta is curating an exhibit on Alternative Voices in Game Design, specifically focusing on women. We’re excited to be a part of it. Our Centipede cabinet will be on loan since it was the first major release to be designed in large part by a woman. You’ll be able to play and interact with the game while it’s being displayed. We will also be doing the bar at the opening party where we will focus on cocktails created by women.
Johnny: To be honest, we never once felt that we had to open a gay bar just because we are gay. The intention with Joystick was always to be a welcoming environment for everyone. And I doubt what we are doing is new. Brandon: Yeah, our sexuality as it relates to the bar hasn’t surprised anyone that we know of. I think we’re lucky enough to be reaching a point in our society where such a segregation, be it forced or self-imposed, isn’t expected anymore. Johnny: That said, we love a good gay bar. If we had the investors, we’d open one. Are the patrons of Joystick a cross section of gay and straight? Being located on Edgewood, that’s a very inclusive area. Brandon: You’re right, Edgewood is very inclusive. It’s the way we think a city should feel and look, which is one of the reasons we chose to open there. Johnny: Because of that and because of the universal appeal of the video games, we don’t have just one demographic.
Was it difficult to locate and procure all the games? After all, brick-and-mortar arcades have long since gone the way of Betamax video machines and hair metal bands. I’d imagine that find- How have the gays responded to Joystick ing the games was like looking for very expensive Gamebar? Do you think you’re drawing more of the edgy, hipster queer crowd rather than the needles in haystacks. metrosexual gays? Brandon: I, personally, think pop music needs more hair Brandon: What we’ve seen at the bar is that all gays have a metal bands. nerdy side. Joystick is a safe place to let that particular freak Johnny: Which explains his hair. But, yeah, the initial flag fly, so that dividing line doesn’t really exist there. sourcing of the games took some digging and led us down a couple of different paths. We were finally able to find them Being hot with the cool gays, have you guys ever all in one place and in decent condition. Some of these before hosted, or have you considered hostgames are older than our customers. Game years are like dog years, so often it’s like searching for a vibrant me-maw ing, events in conjunction with MondoHomo or Atlanta Pride? who just got a new hip replacement. Brandon: That’s certainly the first time anyone has told me I’m hot with the cool gays. Johnny: In total, 16 plus board games and Atari in our parlor. Johnny: Although we’ve never hosted anything for Pride, we were in the parade last year and will be again this year. We love to host events for organizations we believe in. We were Any pinball or pool tables? How many games total does Joystick have?
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recently the official opening night after party for the 2013 Atlanta Fringe Festival, which supports and fosters local artistic, weird theater. We’ve also hosted the YWCA, who help kids that might not have all the advantages others do. So we are definitely open to those possibilities. The names of your specialty cocktails are pretty clever, maybe even a little bit weird. Did you come up with them after many, many, many exhaustive tests of the recipes? Brandon: Well, there were definitely many, many, many exhaustive tests of the recipes, so that probably explains a few of the names. But we are very proud of the alcohol selection at the bar and the research was necessary. I’m totally nerdy about cocktails and so is Kysha Cyrus, who leads our cocktail program and is the best bartender in Atlanta. We don’t always carry the big, corporate stuff you can find anywhere, but we believe we’ve got something you’d like, be it a beer, a whiskey, or a mixed drink. Even our four-dollar well is really good stuff! What kind of grub is on the menu? Johnny: What we’ve done is brought in a small start-up company to come in and operate out of our kitchen. So our menu is provided by Illegal Food, who we think is really going to take off. Their current menu is focusing on amazing sandwiches and fries. There’s a classic cheeseburger done right, a black bean and smoked hominy veggie burger, a spicy lamb patty, slow cooked brisket. Brandon: They source all their ingredients locally and everything they do is made right in the back. They make their own pickles, smoke their own bacon, grind their own meat. Even the catsup is made in house, and quite possibly even the printer ink they use. What makes Illegal Food such a great fit is that they have a similar philosophy about their food that we have about the bar: use fresh, quality ingredients, make interesting stuff, but leave out the pretension. So do you guys hold arcade game tournaments? Johnny: We do, indeed! And often give away booze as a prize. Brandon: I never knew watching an NBA Jam game could get so intense but there were some close games in that tournament, and the energy from the crowd watching was like being at the Final Four. It was hard not to get into it. Johnny: We have had tournaments on Mortal Kombat, Street Fighter, and NBA Jam. Coming up is a pinball tournament that will also raise money for Susan G. Komen. Brandon: Yeah, that’s on June 19th. Come on in. You don’t even have to play pinball to donate and have a good time. Johnny: Also in the works is another tournament set for later this summer but details on that will be forthcoming. Are you guys constantly on the lookout for more classic arcade games to bring in? @DavidAtlantaGA // 31
Brandon: We are. And we certainly have our wish list, which has been compiled very scientifically. Johnny: We take a lot of requests and have our own personal favorites. It’s all entered into an equation. It’s very complicated. Brandon: I sometimes feel like having a comment box would be free up a lot of our day. Johnny: We’ve been lucky to have a passionate clientele. Some of those dedicated people have helped us enormously in the repair of these games and with sourcing new titles. Tell me about some of the special events Joystick has hosted in the past.
Brandon: Sunday, June 16th, we are having a party to kick off our new feature, which is a Sunday night brunch called From Brunch Till Dawn. Every Sunday night, the food and cocktail menus will feature brunch items for those who are always working Sunday morning or just slept in too late. Johnny: We also have the Susan G. Komen pinball fundraiser coming up on the 19th, as well as a special dinner with drink pairings that will benefit NORML. That will take place in mid-July. Please be sure to check our Facebook for updates on those. Joystick Gamebar is located at 427 Edgewood Ave. in Atlanta. For more information, call 404-525-3002 or visit joystickgamebar.com.
Johnny: Oh, wow. Some highlights include a 43-year-old’s birthday, a 13-year-old’s birthday, Zifty’s 10-year anniversary, software company parties, a movie press junket, and Emory staff Christmas party. It think the Reddit Meet-up was a lot of fun. We’ve hosted a cocktail competition. Brandon: We’ve also thrown a few parties ourselves too. Most successful was probably our End of the World Party on the eve of December 21st, 2012. We had the Mayan Wheel of Prizes and Death. Some people won prizes, others won death. What events are on the schedule for the near future?
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photo: Joystick Gamebar
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photos: Matt Conn
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Queer Geek and Gaming Con Blazes Trail
A
lthough the prevailing aesthetic of gay culture may seem to be all about slick bars and nightclubs, DJ’s pumping out Deborah Cox and Kylie Minogue remixes, picture-perfect sweaty shirtless boys gyrating to said remixes, and folk-rock lesbians with guitars, thank the gods that there’s enough diversity in our community to allow some much needed diversity in. The diversity most assuredly includes a growing subculture of queer geeks and gamers. Gamers are people who are devotees of primarily role-playing games and video games. One event aims to become the first renowned event that queer geeks and gamers across the country will take to heart as a safe-space haven for their escapist obsessions. Set for August 3 through 4 in San Francisco, GaymerX was founded by MattX. Although the convention takes place far over on the West Coast, David Atlanta jumped at the chance to plug in and find out all about the baby-steps present and rainbow future of gay gaming. MattX is your gamer name. What’s your real given name? I actually go by a different gamertag on most services. I changed my name on GaymerConnect to MattX as a joke. I’m actually Matt Conn. Do you consider yourself an out and proud… geek? Oh yeah. I’m a very openly geeky guy, from the Digimon collection in my room to my love of pro wrestling. I am a geek. But I’m also a gay male who is proud of that as well, and so I’m a queer geek. A gaymer, if you will. I know you’re the founder of GaymerX, which used to be called GaymerCon. What inspired you to create it? Before starting GaymerCon, myself and a good friend of mine, Adam Pappie, were holding meetups through a group called SF Gaymers. It started out as just 10 to 20 people but quickly ballooned into hundreds of queer geeks. And as we saw how much of an effect it was having for the community to be able to be openly gay and geeky, and to not have to be in any more closets, was really inspiring. Why the name change to GaymerX? @DavidAtlantaGA // 35
sci-fi, and similar niches are all about escapism and creating your own world away from the norm. Why do you think gays haven’t traditionally been included? I think gaming is very much something that has had to fight for its own rights to be seen as art and for gamers to be accepted. [So] now that gaming has reached the mainstream and gaming is no longer a taboo, I think that gamers and geeks are very xenophobic to new ideas [like] women and gays, as they’re afraid of losing grasp of something they fought so hard for. It makes sense, but history suggests that keeping an open mind and being inclusionary always wins out. There is a convention in San Diego that existed prior to us that was called Gamercon, and as a phonetic derivative, they felt we needed to pay up. As a first year con, we decided we’d rather change the name and have a better convention than pay out for a name.
Was it difficult to get more special guests and panelists to participate in GaymerX?
What led you to hold GaymerX in San Francisco?
This is our first year, so it was very hard to get many companies and people to want to step up and participate. We hope that if the con does and is received well, that we won’t have to do so much chasing.
San Francisco is a great home because it is the ultimate cross section of tech and queer rights, and of course, gay culture.
What are some of the panels, workshops, and gaming areas that you’re particularly excited about this year?
Have you thought about authorizing franchise GaymerX cons in other cities? Or do you prefer to stick to Frisco, much like Comic-Con is always held in San Diego and Dragon*Con is always held in Atlanta, for example?
Really excited to see what EA and Bioware have to say about the queer content in their existing and upcoming titles. And there’s a swath of queer developers like Mattie Brice and Porpentine who will be speaking that I can’t wait to see their thoughts on the queer scene for people actually in the industry.
I’m not sure. It all depends on how the first con is received. If people come out, if the con is profitable, then we will definitely be growing the convention out. At the moment, there hasn’t been a ton of news out of our camp, as we’ve mostly been getting the logistics down. But we’re hoping with the announcement of some of our special guests to sell out the convention.
For the, like, one or two people out there who may not know what cosplay is, describe it for them. Where did the word cosplay come from?
Hmm. I think it means costume play. It usually isn’t anything nefarious or sexual, although it can be. It’s usually dressing up as your favorite character from a game or series and I was really surprised to learn that queer geeks walking around the convention, taking photos with fans, and being in character. It’s like roleplaying a day in the life of and gaming buffs haven’t always been openly welcomed and included in other nationwide genre that character. It’s fun, but can be expensive to make it look good. cons. It seems like things like gaming, fantasy, 36 // davidatlanta.com
You have a really large staff that puts together GaymerX with you. Exactly how many folks are there? Does each person have their own area of specialty and responsibility? I’d imagine something like GaymerX would next to impossible to do it without a staff. We have around 15 people who are on staff, with around 30 to 40 volunteers helping out. With what we expect and hope to be 2,000-plus attendees, it is truly a deep undertaking, but one that we’re super blessed to have a team willing to help make possible. When you’re not working on each year’s con, what else do you do professionally? Or is the con a full-time endeavor? At the moment, GaymerX and GaymerConnect are what I work on full time as we get started. How fierce and on-the-edge is the atmosphere in a gaming room? Gamers are a very hardcore, dedicated crowd, after all! Should be fun to find out! Why haven’t any games—electronic, online, or otherwise—been created with LGBT characters?
I think that the game industry, for whatever reason, is drastically behind the times when it comes to civil rights. There’s a lack of female, people of color, LBGT, really any kind of diversity when it comes to most games, and this is usually out of fear. There are few large AAA titles that feature diverse characters, and without a case study it’s hard for companies to listen to those in their production department saying “We want to include this character who is trans or this gay character” without seeing potential controversy or poor sales. Do you think that will ever change as more of society and popular culture becomes gay inclusive? I absolutely do. I think it’s already beginning to begin. EA now has a Pride month and recently held a LGBT conference on queers in games. And the fact that Obsidian, EA, and Bioware are at GaymerX shows how much the mainstream is ready for this. I think it will be very soon that gaming will catch up to the rights afforded to at least the characters in other forms of fiction in American popular culture. GaymerX launches its inaugural event August 3–4 in San Francisco. For more information, visit gaymerconnect.com.
@DavidAtlantaGA // 37
38 // davidatlanta.com
- since 1997 -
- since 1997 -
Named People Magazine’s “Best Wedding Cakes in Georgia!” www.metrobakery.com
theScene 1
10th & Piedmont 991 Piedmont Ave. NE
14 Cowtippers
27 Jungle
40 The Model T
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Amsterdam 502 Amsterdam Ave. NE
15 Daiquiri Factory
28 Las Margaritas
41 Tripps
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Atlanta Eagle 306 Ponce De Leon Ave. NE
16 Einstein's
29 Manifest 4 U
42 Urban Body Fitness
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BJ Roosters 2043 Cheshire Bridge Rd.
17 F.R.O.G.S
30 Mixx
43 Woof's
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Blake's 227 10th St. NE
18 Felix's
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44 XS Ultra Lounge
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Bliss 2284 Cheshire Bridge Rd.
19 Flex Spa
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Boy Next Door 1447 Piedmont Ave. NE
20 Friends
33 Roxx
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Brushstrokes 1510 Piedmont Ave. NE
21 Gatsby's
34 Sam's Hair Salon
Le Buzz 585 Franklin Rd. SE Marietta, GA
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Bubbles Salon 1579 Monroe Dr. NE
22 Gilbert's
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Mary's 1287 Glenwood Ave. SE
10 Bulldogs
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36 Ten Atlanta
My Sister's Room 1271 Glenwood Ave. SE
11 Burkhart's
24 Heretic
37 The Den
Club Rush 2715 Buford Hwy. NE
12 Capulets
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38 The Fifth Ivory
Sister Louisa’s Church 466 Edgewood Ave. SE
13 Club Eros
26 Joe's on Juniper
39 The Hideaway
Swinging Richard's 1400 Northside Dr. NW
893 Peachtree St. NE 1492 Piedmont Ave. NE 1510 Piedmont Ave. NE 2219 Faulkner Rd. NE
1600 Piedmont Ave. NE 889 W. Peachtree Str. NW 1077 Juniper St. NE 931 Monroe Cir. NE 1510 Piedmont Ave. NE 76 4th St. NW
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1824 Cheshire Bridge Rd. 2000 Cheshire Bridge Rd. 2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd.
2201 Faulkner Rd. NE 2069 Cheshire Bridge Rd. 1551 Piedmont Ave. NE 1049 Juniper Str. NE
990 Piedmont Ave. Ne 2135 Liddell Dr. NE 794 Juniper Str. NE 1544 Piedmont Ave. NE
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Billiards/Darts
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Non-Smoking
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42 // davidatlanta.com
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@DavidAtlantaGA // 43
Bartab
got an upcoming event? calendar@davidatlanta.com
MONDAY
model t Party with Elvis - 9 pm oscar’s Ruby Redd’s After Party - 10 pm BLAKE’S Game Night - Trivia/Family Feud swinging richards 2-4-1 VIP Room 11pm ten atlanta Drag-a-maki w/ Kitty BURKHART’S Blue Monday Karaoke w/ LeClaw 8:30pm Angelica D’Paige 11:30pm tripp’s Free Taco Bar 5pm COCKPIT Big Red Cup All Day, specials xcess ultra lounge Raquell Lord’s EAGLE Music Videos with Scotty Talent Show 10:30pm, Sophia Mcintosh & FELIX’S Free Pool Fab 5 +1 11:30pm, 18+ FRIENDS Manic Mondays DJ opens - 2 pm woof’s Food Special, Trivia 8pm HERETIC Play w/ Eddie 4pm-11pm HIDEAWAY $2.50 Domestic Beer JUNGLE Stars of the Century Show 11pm blake’s Texas Hold’Em Poker 7pm, “Guys MODEL T Monday Night Madness Free & Dolls” with Shawnna Brooks. 11pm Pool - 10pm - 2am OSCAR’S Service Industry Night with Eric BURKHART’S Twisted Thursday w/ Phoenix 11:30pm swinging richards Hip-Hop Night, cockpit Dirty Boy Bingo w/ Ruby Redd Sponsored by Hennessy 8:30pm eagle Balls Deep Karaoke w/ Mikey ten atlanta Poker Night TRIPP’S Monday Nite Madness w/ Tana 9pm felix’s Karaoke w/ Brett & Tyler 10pm friends Where Girls Who Like Girls Meet WOOF’S Texas Hold ‘Em Poker 8pm Girls with Regina Simms 8-closing Gilbert’s Wine tasting 6-10pm heretic 3 Legged Cowboy Night 9pm BLAKE’S POP! Karaoke with Sasie Monroe hideaway Service Industry Night and Suzanne Gleeson 11pm jungle Members Only with Evah BURKHART’S Trivia Tuesday Karaoke w/ Destruction 10pm Angelica D’Paige 11:30pm mIXX Gentlemen Cocktails with Aaron & club rush “Tipsy Tuesday” 18 & up Matt at 6pm Open until 4am model t Party Time with Michael - 9 pm COCKPIT 80s Party 9pm, specials 5-8pm oscar’s Twisted Thursday with Eric EAGLE Tuesdays w/ Tony swinging richards 2-4-1 VIP & Entry FELIX’S Smirnoff Martini Night xcess ultra lounge Turnt Up Thursday FRIENDS Let’s Make A Deal with Ken 6 pm woof’s Food Special, Country Music 7pm Gilbert’s Industry Night (complementary pizza after 10pm) HERETIC 2-Step Tuesday, dance till 11pm 10th & piedmont Live DJ 10 PM HIDEAWAY Trivia with Wil 9 pm blake’s 5-9pm TGIF, Charlie’s Angels w/ JUNGLE Ruby’s Tuesdays 8 pm Charlie Brown 11pm MIXX Piano with David Reeb at 8pm BURKHART’S Fab Five w/ Angelica MODEL T Wii Tuesday Afternoons 2pm D’Paige 11:30pm 9pm $2.50 beer / $3.0 well vodka OSCAR’S Show Tune Tuesday with Chad- club rush “Got Leche” Free entry until 11pm 18 & up - Open until 4am 8 pm cockpit DJ Diablo Rojo, guest VJ/DJ’s SWINGING RICHARDS 1/2 Price cover eagle DJ Dance Party WOOF’S Industry Day Free Wii 5pm friends Happy Time Friday Kelly & Ken 6 pm heretic No cover B4 11pm hideaway Kick Back Fridays! BLAKE’S 5-9pm Doug’s party pop hits, jungle Dinner and a Movie 7 pm; Charlie Harding’s Hard Body Party 11 pm The Other Show with Edie Cheezburger BURKHART’S Humpday Karaoke w/ 9:30pm; Jungle POP 11pm Darlene Majewski 11:30pm mixx Ron’s End of the Week Party 4pm | COCKPIT Balls Deep Karaoke 10pm Grown & Sexy Dance 10 pm EAGLE Underwear Night with Tony model t Friday Bagels - 10 am | Texas Friends Hump Night with Regina Simms Holdem Poker 8 pm Gilbert’s Karaoke 10pm-2am oscar’s Music Video Night heretic No Cover! swinging richards T-Shirt Review,$10 hideaway 1/2 Price Beer ten atlanta Music by George Greenlee jungle Dragamaniacs with Nicole Paige tripp’s Afternoon Delights 4pm Brooks and Phoenix 10pm woof’s Atlanta’s Best Social Night 6pm
THURSDAY
TUESDAY
FRIDAY
WEDNESDAY
44 // davidatlanta.com
SATURDAY
10th & piedmont Live DJ 10 PM blake’s Open at 1pm, Daring Divas 11pm BURKHART’S Extravaganza w/ Shavonna B. Brooks 11:30pm cockpit DJ Diablo Rojo, guest VJ/DJ’s eagle DJ Dance Party felix’s Karaoke w/ Brett & Tyler 10pm friends Free Pool and Cheap beer with DJ! 2 pm - 6 pm Gilbert’s All you care to eat brunch (cooked to order) 11-4pm heretic Varies: Club Night or 3 Legged Cowboy Night - 10pm hideaway Open at 12:30pm! Saturday Night Party jungle The Q 9 pm; Club Night, Various Guest DJ’s mixx Guest DJ’s Dance 10pm model t Texas Holdem Poker - 3 pm | Party with the M&M Boiz - 9 pm oscar’s DJ Christopher Kind swinging richards T-Shirt Review $10 ten atlanta Music by George Greenlee tripp’s Afternoon Cookout 3pm xcess ultra lounge 25+ FREE til 12am woof’s Game Day All Day
SUNDAY
10th & piedmont Bellini Brunch 11 AM & T-Dance 4 PM blake’s Open at 1pm - High Energy Music & Video w/ Bill Berdeaux & Daryl Cox BURKHART’S Armorettes Drag Show club rush Hip Hop and R&B - 18 & up Open until 4am cockpit PBR Beer Bust felix’s Bloody Marys & Mimosas friends Open @ 2pm; Dinner @ 4pm while it lasts Gilbert’s All you care to eat brunch (cooked to order) 11-4pm and Karaoke 6-11:30pm hideaway Atlanta’s Favorite Bloody Mary Bar! 12:30 pm Jungle The Day After with Knomie Moore 12-3pm; Sweet T with Bubba Dee and Wild Cherry Sucret 7pm las margaritas All You Can Eat til 3pm mixx Old School Sunday Dance 7pm model t Sunday Dinner with Ron 3:30 pm oscar’s Sunday Fun-day ten atlanta Music by George Greenlee tripp’s Buffet of Goodness - 3 pm | Karaoke - 7 pm woof’s Bloody Mary bar, PBR special
theRundown Tracee McDaniel Book Signing
Datebook
Wednesday, June 19 • 7:30 p.m. • Charis Books and More (1189 Euclid Ave. NE)
Author Tracee McDaniel, who works as an advocate for the transgender community through the Juxtaposed Center for Transformation, is signing copies of her book Transitions. For more information, visit charisbooksandmore.com.
Summer Kick Off Mix and Mingle
Thursday, June 20 • 6:30 p.m. • Mixx Atlanta (1492 Piedmont Ave. NE) AEN hosts their annual Summer Kick Off. Admission is $20, or free for AEN members, and the event includes “light bites” and a cash bar. For more information, visit aen.org.
Brent Star’s Special Birthday Show!
Thursday, June 20 • 10:30 p.m. • Laughing Skull (878 Peachtree St.)
Brent Star has a new monthly show, the Brent Star Variety Show, and the first show coincides with his birthday. Join Brent and his special guests, including Ian Aber, Gay Bob from 99X and more. For more information, visit Brent’s Facebook page.
‘5 Broken Cameras’ Screening
Friday, June 21 • 7 p.m. • First Existentialist Congregation (470 Candler Park Dr.)
Stonewall Events Following the move of Atlanta Pride to October in 2008, the Atlanta Pride Committee has hosted various events in June surrounding the anniversary of the Stonewall Riots. While 2009–2011’s events were held over one week, 2012 saw the series of Stonewall events expand to a full month. That new tradition continues this year. Here’s a look at what’s going on this week for Stonewall Month:
GALA Celebrates the Emory LGBT Archives Thursday, June 20 • 6:30 p.m. • Robert W. Woodruff Library, Emory University (540 Asbury Circle) Presented by Emory Gay and Lesbian Alumni (GALA) and the Emory University Manuscripts and Rare Books Library (MARBL). Randy Gue, Curator of Modern Political and Historical Collections, will speak about Emory’s work and showcase parts of the collection. $10 for Emory alumni, faculty, staff and students; $15 for non-Emory attendees.
Atlanta Pride Run
As part of the Third Friday Film Series, First Existentialist Congregation hosts a screening of the Oscar-nominated 5 Broken Cameras. For more information, visit firstexistentialist. org.
Saturday, June 22 • 8 a.m. • Piedmont Park Presented by Front Runners. Currently in its 23rd year, the Atlanta Pride Run is a 5K race and walk. Proceeds from the run go to benefit Lost-N-Found Youth and Atlanta Pride. $30 for advance registration.
One Direction Live
Augusta Pride
Friday, June 21 • 7:30 p.m. • Philips Arena (1 Philips Dr.)
The current reigning boy band invades Atlanta on this date of their Take Me Home Tour. We know some of you would be more than willing to take them home. For more information, visit onedirectionmusic.com.
New Feminist Noir
Friday, June 21 • 7:30 p.m. • Charis Books and More (1189 Euclid Ave. NE) Join new author Steph Cha as she shares her debut novel, Follow Her Home. For more information, visit charisbooksandmore.com. 46 // davidatlanta.com
Saturday, June 22 • 10 a.m.–7 p.m. • Augusta Commons (836 Reynolds St., Augusta) Presented by Augusta Pride. The parade begins at 10 a.m., while the festival runs from 11 a.m.–7 p.m. For more details, visit prideaugusta.org.
Our American Journey Saturday, June 22 • 8 p.m. • St. Mark United Methodist Church (781 Peachtree St.) Presented by Atlanta Freedom Bands. AFB takes a musical journey through the country as seen through the LGBT civil rights movement. The concert includes a special tribute to Harvey Milk. $10 for general admission; $5 for students and seniors.
IN THEATRES THIS WEEK Privileged white teens expecting a consequence-free life of robbing celebrities? Thankfully, Sofia Coppola’s The Bling Ring, based on real incidents that happened in 2008 and 2009, has a biting and darkly comic tone. The cast is largely made up of newcomers, including standout first-timer Israel Broussard as Marc, the group’s lone male whose obvious sexuality is never treated as a “Big Deal.” The gang also includes Emma Watson, firmly shedding Hermione here.
ALSO IN THEATRES Monsters University: Pixar’s recent output has been a little disappointing, if we’re being perfectly honest. Thankfully, the prequel to 2001’s Monsters, Inc. marks a return to form for the studio. Much Ado About Nothing: How do you follow up one of the biggest films of all time? If you’re Joss Whedon, you follow The Avengers with a micro-budget modern take on Shakespeare with several close friends. World War Z: Brad Pitt leaves his family to travel the world, looking for a cure to a zombie pandemic. Let’s see if he can at least save the end of the film, which was reshot and caused a six-month delay for the film’s release.
Dine In | Take Out | Delivery | Catering Welcoming the LGBT community for 20 years. Family owned and operated, and still the best place for great Thai food!
2169 Briarcliff Road Atlanta, GA 30329 404.315.6750
www.thaichilicuisine.com @DavidAtlantaGA // 47
50 // davidatlanta.com
Steve Litman & Fox Events Present
WEdnESdAy, JunE 26 SymPhOny hALL On sale at The Woodruff Arts Center Box Office and Ticketmaster
‘DROP DEAD
DIVA’ Returns from the Dead
A
BY ELIJAH SARKESIAN
fter the story-based death that launched the series, Drop Dead Diva experienced a different sort of death earlier this year—cancellation. But just like the rebirth that gave the show’s central character, Deb, a second chance at life, Drop Dead Diva managed to make a post-cancellation pickup from Lifetime.
on and off for two weeks. So I believe it was truly the fans that saved the show, and internally we’re actually dubbing season five “The Season of Fans” in honor of them. It’s truly a testament to the hardcore support that the Drop Dead Diva fans have for the show.
For those who aren’t familiar with the show, Drop Dead Diva is about a shallow aspiring model named Deb, whose death in a car crash leads (through a few twists and turns) her to be brought back to life in the body of a recently deceased lawyer named Jane (series star Brooke Elliott), who died protecting her boss.
I’ll say also: what was so gratifying for me was just all the personal emails and Facebook messages and Tweets that I received from the fans wanting to know how they could help.
Before the series’ fifth season premiere on June 23, I caught up with series creator Josh Berman to discuss coming back from cancellation, what fans can expect this season, and what it’s like shooting in Georgia. Warning: some spoilers for seasons four and five are contained below. How does it feel to be back at work after a period of time where it looked like Drop Dead Diva wasn’t coming back? It’s been one of the wildest roller coaster rides of my career. When the show was cancelled, I was incredibly disappointed. But what no one counted on was the rabid fanbase that immediately came to this show’s support like nothing I’ve ever seen. Within two or three days, there were dozens and dozens of homemade videos on YouTube demanding that Lifetime save the show. More importantly, the show had never trended on Twitter, and when we were cancelled, we trended 52 // davidatlanta.com
What can fans expect when they tune in this season? The title of the first episode is a wink to the fans, “Back from the Dead,” and it picks up half an hour after season four ended. Within the first few episodes, we resolve the cliffhanger of season four and we jump start into Jane’s new life, having to deal with the fact that she kissed Grayson right before her wedding to Owen, and the revelation that Old Jane has returned to Earth. So there’s a lot for us to accomplish in the first half of this season. What we’re also working hard to do is make sure the first couple of episodes are still inviting to viewers who have never seen the show before. What we’re finding out is because of the cancellation, the show got so much attention that people who hadn’t seen the show are now interested, and we want to make sure that if you’ve never seen the show before, you can start on June 23 and not miss a beat.
ATLANTA
SYMPHONY HALL
NEXT SATURDAY! JUNE 29
JULY 2 CYNDILAUPER.COM
BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW! Tickets available at the Woodruff Arts Center box office and all Ticketmaster outlets • TICKETMASTER.COM Group Sales 404.733.4848 All artists and schedules subject to change without notice. Tickets subject to service charge.
@DavidAtlantaGA // 53
played by Justin Deeley. How is Paul going to stand out as a character compared to previous angels like Luke and Fred?
Josh Berman
I think it’s important in a show like this that each of the angels have kind of a common thread, but also feel very distinctive. What’s so great about Justin is...I kind of view him as a male version of Deb, in that he’s absolutely stunning, and he has a good heart, but he’s kind of vacuous and he’s oblivious to the ongoings around him. Over the course of the season, Jane’s got to come to terms with the fact that her angel’s a lot like she used to be, and she will have to educate him just as much as he educates her. The other thing about this angel is that he has a tough time keeping his clothes on. You’ll see a lot of Paul in the first couple of episodes. As you previously mentioned, Old Jane will be appearing this season. Can you hint at what that will be like? Sure. One of the cliffhangers from last season was that the original Jane, the woman whose body Deb now inhabits, was watching Jane’s life from heaven and she was pissed at the way New Jane was handling Old Jane’s life, and she finds a way to return to Earth. In the cliffhanger, we see her careening towards Earth. We will pick that storyline up in the first episode, but I don’t want to give too much away. What Old Jane does and how she does it greatly impacts our character’s life.
One of the things the show’s done in the past is bring in high-profile guest stars. Are there any notable names on tap for this season? We definitely do. Some of the fun ones so far include John Ratzenberger from Cheers. He returns as Kate’s father. And I’m personally a huge fan of Barbara Corcoran, one of the judges on Shark Tank. She shows up in this season. I can assure you there will be a ton of fun people. There’s also a new character coming in this season: Jane’s newest guardian angel, Paul, 54 // davidatlanta.com
The show has dealt with LGBT issues in the past. The episode “Prom” won a GLAAD Award last year. Are there any LGBT-specific storylines going on this season? We’ve actually been nominated for a GLAAD Award three years in a row, which has been amazingly gratifying for me. You know, Margaret Cho’s a series regular, and I think that brings a focus to the show from gay and lesbian viewers, which I love. But this year, we do have a very important gay episode. I think it will feel fresh and different.
For fans who are wanting to avoid cancelFrom what I understand, it’s tied into an athlete coming out as gay. Can you talk a little bit about it? lation talks in the near future, what do you recommend they do? I think it’s our best exploration into gay storylines yet. The most important thing to do to save the show Cyd Zeigler, who is the president of OutSports, sat in the right now is to get other people to watch the show. writers’ room with the writers while we worked on this episode. At the end of the day, we need strong ratings. We need viewers on June 23. I’d ask people who like the show to spread the word. I’d also ask them to join The show still shoots in Georgia. What’s different about shooting in Peachtree City compared our Facebook page, and follow the show and me on to shooting in New York, LA or other commonly- Twitter. I’m @bermanjosh and the show is @dropdeaddiva. Stay involved, stay active, and be engaged with used cities? the Drop Dead Diva social media community. It’s also a great way to find people who like the show, as well as I absolutely love shooting in Georgia. Obviously, the tax to get sneak peeks behind the scenes. breaks are awesome, and they help us do a better show for less money. But the other part is less tangible, and it’s that the people in Peachtree City and in Georgia have been Do you have any last remarks for our readers? so welcoming and so warm to us. I think it may still be a novelty for them to have a show shooting in their backyard, so we feel like a real part of the community. You won’t get I’d really like to thank the LGBT community for getting that in a big city like LA or New York because there are so behind Drop Dead Diva so early. I feel like our commany productions everywhere you look. We very much feel munity were the first fans of the show. The show’s ultimately about a woman who doesn’t feel like she a part of Peachtree City. They even named a street Diva Drive after Drop Dead Diva. Some of our cast went out for quite fits in, and it certainly taps into aspects of my the naming, and the local TCBY named a flavor after Drop life as a gay man, and I believe it’s what touches on a Dead Diva, called…“Drop Dead Diva.” Those little points of lot of our viewers in our community. connection between a show and a community build.
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@DavidAtlantaGA // 55
Screen Queen:
show China Girl’s evolution from puppet to one of the most lovable animated dolls ever, the lavish art design and Kunis’ makeup metamorphosis. The best, though, is a 22-minute filming doc seen through James Franco’s eyes. Because everything looks better through James Franco’s eyes.
By Chris Azzopardi
Cloud Atlas For three maniacal hours, Cloud Atlas jumps between now, yesterday and tomorrow with a pool of characters—among them, a tragically affecting gay couple living closeted in 1931—that transcend earth, space Oz the Great and Powerful and the hereafter. The complexity of this Rubik’s Cube drama—with romance, comedy and suspense We’re off to see the wizard (but not Dorothy) as tearing through each story—is philosophically chalfilmmaker Sam Raimi gives top billing to the great lenging, even off-putting at first, with its eternal man behind the smoke screen, a circus fraud who love, time continuum and freedom ideologies, but becomes the fated ruler of a land far, far away when it’s also a marvel to relish: actors bend genders and he’s swept up in a tornado and catapulted into gay race (You’re seeing right; that’s Susan Sarandon as heaven (so naturally he’s played by James Franco). a man and Hugo Weaving as a female nurse), and There are fairies, a cute monkey in a bell-captain time-shifting scenes fall into each other like magic. costume, a talking china doll, some twists (Mila And there is, of course, just the grand ambition of Kunis, Michelle Williams and Rachel Weisz play trans co-writer Lana Wachowski, who with the other witches; one is wicked), enough CGI effects to make creators has obviously put her heart and soul into this The Wizard of Oz look its age and even some sexyrich, enveloping and deeply moving adaptation of the time innuendo. Because everything Franco does is a also-dense novel. This confounding and emotionally little bit sexual. Even if it’s for Disney. Taking cues effective mind bender calls for an in-depth look, but from the original, Raimi’s Oz knows its boundaries, the special features only offer short featurettes— honoring the 1939 classic with nostalgia, magic and several featuring Wachowski—that barely fill in the the fantastical feel of transcending reality. The extras blanks. 60 // davidatlanta.com
A legal system clouded with moral biases doesn’t look out for the best interest of this kid (is Marco really better off with his junkie mother?), and so his new family fights the court for custody of a child that everyone but them forgot about. Any Day Now, set in the late ’70s (which explains Cumming’s moppy head of hair) and based on a true story, raises issues of prejudice, injustice, disability and stereotypes with Cumming in top form; as Rudy, he’s compellingly passionate and stalwart as he rigorously fights the blatant homophobia keeping him from Marco. An emotional peak bursts open the floodgates in a dramatic turn that makes Any Day Now a tough film to watch—and an even tougher one to shake. Extras are short and sweet: Filmmaker Travis Fine reflects on his personal relationship with the script, and we meet firsttime actor Isaac Leyva.
Struck by Lightning Lightning didn’t strike for the Glee gay, Chris Colfer, when his first cinema outing debuted last year at the Tribeca Film Festival to dismal reviews and a limited theatrical showing. Sure, the indie “comedy” seemed promising. Colfer is a funny firecracker with a charming presence as Kurt on Glee. He managed to nab Rebel Wilson to do her Rebel Wilson thing. And the rest of the cast ain’t too shabby either: Christina Hendricks, Dermot Mulroney and Allison Janney, perfect even in this mess as his mother. This catastrophic strikeout, however, is DOA as Colfer’s unlikable high school narcissist, Carson, dies from a bolt of lightning in the opening scene, forcing us to endure flashbacks of after-school-special teen angst and awkwardly shoehorned family drama. It’s never funny. It’s never engaging. It’s only struck by awfulness. The extras have as little to say as the movie itself: a behind-thescenes segment and interviews with Colfer and director Brian Dannelly clock in at just two minutes each. There’s also 17 minutes of deleted scenes and bloopers that are even less funny than the movie, which seems almost impossible.
Warm Bodies
When you think zombies, you don’t think heart. You think brains. And Warm Bodies doesn’t skimp on head jelly as the walking dead take on mankind in this post-apocalyptic comedy. But there’s an unexpected romantic crux a la Romeo and Juliet ... if Romeo ate people. Nicholas Hoult Any Day Now is “R,” a zombie who falls for Julie (Teresa Palmer) after he devours the brains of her boyfriend (Dave Franco). When Rudy Donatello (Alan Cumming), a West Hollywood As they run from an even greater threat—and he from drag performer, stumbles upon a neglected child with the humans, she from the bad zombies—they forge a Down syndrome in a neighboring apartment, he reacts romantic relationship rarely seen in a movie with organ as any person with a heart would: He does something eating. It’s adorable, hilarious and gross, but above all, about it. Rudy, together with new boyfriend Paul Fliger it cleverly eats zombie stereotypes and finds new life in (Garret Dillahunt), gives the affectionate doll-adoring undead mythology. Packed with special features, owning Marco (Isaac Leyva) the home he never had. But so what. Warm Bodies is a no-brainer. @DavidAtlantaGA // 61
down. McCarthy lives up to the Bridesmaids hype with a comic powerhouse performance hinging on crazy caricature. Sometimes stooping low—fat jokes and derogatory name-calling abound—the comedy from Horrible Bosses director Seth Gordon requires a high tolerance for exploitative political incorrectness. Still, the critical bashing is overblown—it’s not a perfect comedy, but is it knee-slapping funny? Yes. Very. Is Melissa a riot? Duh. Bonus features include an extended cut of the film and alternate scene takes.
Side Effects The first shot in Side Effects is of blood streaked across a hardwood floor. We then backtrack three months, the story twisting and turning as it has you wondering what you got yourself into: a PSA on antidepressants? An intense, crazy, manipulative thriller? Both? Steven Soderbergh directs a sexy cast of Hollywood hotness—Jude Law, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Channing Tatum and Dragon Tattoo badass Rooney Mara—in a wicked nail biter that’s as out of control as its shady protagonist, Emily Taylor (Mara), who goes mental when she’s put on a new experimental drug. And because Soderbergh has decided to queer up Mama his career with Behind the Candelabra and Magic Mike, the lesbians get some girl-on-girl action when Jones and A horror movie that’s kind of…precious? It’s true that Mara make out. What we don’t get are many extras. the Guillermo del Toro-produced fright flick starring Jessica Chastain—rocking the Pat Benatar look—is a chilling, sometimes amusingly silly tale (see: the Identity Thief end) with spooks, jumps and bumps in the night. Looking very much like a But “mama” doesn’t just snatch a couple girls and ’90s drag queen who raid- turn them into gnarly-looking roadrunner-fast kooks ed her grandma’s Florida because she can. Chastain is solid—when is she condo closet, Melissa not?—as a gothed-up mom figure who goes from McCarthy plays a woman self-centered caretaker to full-on guardian (aww). The role, like the awesomely absurd film, surprises with no friends but lots of stuff. Stuff she bought by taking the road less traveled: What, character on someone else’s dime. development in horror? A monster reveal early on? That someone is famYou know what they say: Mama knows best. The short that inspired the full feature is included among ily man Sandy Patterson (Jason Bateman), who generous extras. tracks the scammer 62 // davidatlanta.com
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fairyscopes ARIES (March 20 – April 19): You may find yourself
LIBRA (September 23 – October 22): The balance
worrying about your parents and other relatives getting on in years. Now is the time to tell them how you feel. Maybe initiate a family get-together, or a movie night. Feeling emotional about your parents aging is a good thing, and perhaps reflects a deeper concern with your own aging.
you strive so hard to keep is disrupted today as a relationship begins to go south. Getting emotional and stifling your feelings will only complicate matters. Be flexible, but don’t get upset if things don’t straighten out as quickly as you’d like. Stay the course and he’ll come around.
TAURUS (April 20 – May 20): A sure-fire way to a
SCORPIO (October 23 – November 21): Take the
man’s heart is through his stomach, so start rattling those pots and pans, and plan a romantic dinner. If it’s been a while since you told him how you feel, now’s a perfect time. There’s nothing like candlelight to rekindle a romance. If you kids are just getting together, what better way to get to know each other?
locks off your usually closely guarded emotions today and just let go. Expressing yourself will be refreshing and therapeutic. There will be those who will not only be surprised to hear such candor, but will be attracted to it. Better yet, find a strong shoulder to cry on as you watch ‘Steel Magnolias’ for the 1000th time.
GEMINI (May 21- June 20): Finances are tight these days, yet you’re still torn between spending and saving money. When unexpected expenses force you to side with the latter, your natural adaptability will help you stay on a budget, even as you lust after the latest electronic gadget. Just keep telling yourself it’s not about being cheap -- it’s about being thrifty.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 – December 20): You may be forced to admit today that a recent relationship just isn’t working, and it may be time to move on. You may say you two had nothing in common, but could your restless spirit and unwillingness to commit be what’s really at the heart of problem?
CANCER (June 21- July 22): You are 100-percent,
CAPRICORN (December 21 – January 19): You will
full-on Cancer today, and you’re wearing your intense sensitivity, deep emotions, and ever-changing moods squarely on your sleeve. Those who know and love you have seen it before, and know how to deal with it. Others, maybe not. It may be best to stay as close to your shell as possible today.
be dealt many different cards today, and it may be a challenge dealing with them. All that stress will have you wishing you were somewhere else, and the gym may be just the place. A vigorous workout will help you regain your focus and restore your energy, and give you plenty of drool inducing eye candy.
LEO (July 23 – August 22): Oh, how the lion loves to
AQUARIUS (January 20 – February 18): True to your humanitarian spirit, you’ll feel a need to work for the betterment of mankind. Of course, you’ve said that before, but today’s the day to stop thinking about it and do it. Don’t let your emotions get in the way of volunteering for social work others may find unpleasant. The world needs people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty.
pamper himself! Few things give you more pleasure then spending on yourself, and today your bank account is giving you the green light. So go ahead and buy yourself a little sumthin’, sumthin’. No bargain basement for you, of course, but don’t get too extravagant.
VIRGO (August 23 – September 22): You’re feeding off the energy of others today, and the good vibes have you feeling a stronger connection to your friends. So share the love, and make arrangements to meet friends for coffee, lunch, dinner, cocktails, whatever. Your obvious joy of being in their company will generate its own energy, a win-win situation for everyone.
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PISCES (February 19 – March 19): Life is fabulous today, and you are feeling intensely creative. Tap into your inner muse and indulge your senses through music, art, taking in a play or simply daydreaming. Your sensual side will be stimulated by all this beauty, and now may be a perfect time for new romance. That’s amore!
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That boy was made to be worn like a hockey mask. My daddy issues come full circle when I realize I’m on a date with someone who thought Lite Brite was a pretty big deal back in the day. I don’t know who’s sacrificing a goat every few days in Midtown to keep the gays looking so youthful, but keep up the good work.
Fine! I’ll say it! Drag queens scare me to death. 76 // davidatlanta.com
Right when the lights go on, all your regrets from the night hit you like a ton of bricks.
If you wear a fedora, kill yourself. Just do it. What are you waiting for?
If you learned to drive when I was learning to read, chances are we have nothing in common.
True Life: I’m a bottom in a city full of bottoms looking for someone who isn’t a bottom. Stay tuned and see if I succeed in finding this rare species. There’s always a favorite in a threesome and it’s only fun if you’re the favorite. Trust me on this one. Love telling my mom I go to church on Sundays. I leave out the fact that it’s a bar…and that I’m gay. She’s so proud. *This page reflects the bitchiness of the community not David Atlanta or its publisher (although we’re bitchy too!)