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EDITOR IN CHIEF Omarr Olasewere
DESIGN
Larry Dupard Cristina Rodruiguez
FASHION
Brooke Hill Tifanny Knox Brian Terry Erica Tracey
WRITERS
Renee George Whitney Gomes Alexa Mangrum Stephanie Martinovich Ammar Moheize Shay Dean Middleton Tina Safi Angela Soberanes Adam Stemmler
PHOTOGRAPHERS
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A.J. Garcia Natalie Sema
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CONTENTS
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FALL FORWARD:TRENDS
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BLACK COTTON
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BEAUTY:THE BASICS
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#1 SPOT: DEUCEBRAND
SMART COLORS
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UNWINED
26 46 59 62
BRITBOY FASHIONS
NATURE OF THE BEAST
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BLEU BOHEME
MILITARY ACCESSORIES
VENDOME
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MOVIE REVIEWS
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EDITOR’S LETTER
Welcome to The G.O.O.D.S Magazine introductory issue. I am proud, honored and thrilled to be named The G.O.O.D.S Magazine Editor in Chief. We have big plans for the coming months and I cannot wait for you all to see what we have in store. First off, allow me to introduce myself. I am an Philadelphia, Pa native, seven-year San Diego resident. I discovered my love of fashion at an early age and the individuality it defines. The G.O.O.D.S stand for Grooming Outstanding Originality Defining Style and everyone has their own style. I do have this passion for fashion and style. It is through this medium that I express myself. My hope is that our magazine will speak to each of these segments within the world. We at The G.O.O.D.S Magazine are inspired by you. We want to harness what makes the world’ people so unique and in turn deliver relatable content through what we hope will be an inspiring combination of images and words. It is our pleasure to work with an organization that is involved with Breast Cancer awareness and Make-A-Wish Foundation. The G.O.O.D.S Magazine’s staff is excited to raise awareness for these organizations. I am thrilled to introduce you to our staff that is leading the charge. The G.O.O.D.S Magazine would not exist without this enthusiastic and dedicated group of individuals. This team is carrying out our transformation into something so much more than a magazine. The G.O.O.D.S Magazine is an entity, a brand and a voice. We are adapting to changes in the print industry with our use of digital issues, videos, website and social media platforms. It is through these avenues that we are able to connect with you and hopefully deliver what you wish to see in our publication. Look out for our digital issues and we hope to positively impact as well as strengthen our relationship with the world ENJOY!
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THE G.O.O.D.S MAGAZINE SUPPORTS
FOLLOW HIM...BECAUSE HE SAID SO BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
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by: Stephanie M
MINIM ALISM SOCKS
1950’S CAPES FUR
FALL FORWARD
VELVET NORDIC MENS
Martinovich All designers showing their collections on the runway for autumn and winter from New York City to Milan had similar feminine and polished looks for 2010. The clothes were tailored in rich colors of camel, blue, green, red, aubergine, and textures, such as leather, velvet, lace, and fur. A touch of feathers and shearling were also on wraps, vests and jackets. All of this years styles remind me of another era when womanly and voluptuous silhouettes were celebrated in fashion. The clothes evoke femininity, sophistication and glamour but with a modern edge. This modern edge is the pairing of different fabrics, textures and patterns that work well together, a leather skirt with a soft fur/ shearling wrap or jacket. A pop of leopard with cargo pants for the new military style trend. As for accessorizing, gold sets the trend and blends with these royal colors. Gold plays an accessory color in the clothes, as well as an accessory to an outfit, from gold belts cinched on waists, to bangles wrapped around arms, to gold sequin tops. Here is a look at the top trends taken from the runway for Fall/Winter 2010:
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TREND MINIMALISM WHERE TO BUY: TFNC
One Shoulder Tailored 2 In 1 Dress $50.00
Tibi
Mohair and woolblend cardi-coat
The minimalism look of elegance and simplicity was also prevalent on Gucci, Balenciaga, Giambattista Valli, Chloe, Stella McCarthy and Philip Lim runways. This tailored but clean, polished look of dresses, jumpsuits and pantsuits in monotone neutral colors of camel, winter white, black, gray, or navy, added a fresh and modern flair to the feminine theme of the fall/winter collections.
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$580.00
NET-A-PORTER. COM
TREND NORDIC WHERE TO BUY: Pins and Needles Cocoon Cardigan $68.00 URBANOUTFITTERS. COM
Popcorn Cardigan Sweater $60.00 VICTORIAS SECRET.COM
For this cold weather style, designers layered knitwear. Chanel, Jean Paul Gautier, Missoni, all had Nordic styles for winter wear. Effortlessly layered pieces of patchwork and geometric pattern sweaters, cardigans, and sweater dresses with leg warmers, wool hats, and big fur snow boots that portray a stylish look to ward off the cold. This style is reminiscent of the Nordic winter climate and perfect look for a winter vacation or people who live in the northern hemisphere.
Knitted Handknit Cardigan $160.00 TOPSHOP.COM
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TREND SOCKS WHERE TO BUY: Tattered Sock $18.00 FREEPEOPLE.COM
Diesel
Over Knee Back Seam Spot Socks
One of the most fun trends for fall and winter were pretty socks. From ruffle and textured knee high socks that pair with ankle booties in Dior’s show or short colorful socks that pair with ankle strap heels and above the knee wool textured socks that work the winter boot trend.
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$20.00
ASOS.COM
TREND VELVET WHERE TO BUY: CALVIN KLEIN
Velvet Military Jacket $125.00
CALVINKLEIN.COM
HIigh Waist Velvet Trousers $40.00 ZARA.COM
An alternative to the sheen of silk, velvet shined down the runways for Alexander Wang, Armani, Dolce Gabbana and Ralph Lauren. Red was the color of choice, with black as a close second in all dress lengths; from shorter knee length one shoulder dresses to the longer floor length dresses.
Mesh & Velvet Body Con Dress $500.00 ASOS.COM
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TREND CAPE WHERE TO BUY: California Fleece Cape $65.00 AMERICAN APPAREL.COM
ASOS It’s no surprise the cape coat made a comeback for a fashion trend for 2010. This piece channels the 1950’s like most of the clothes on the runway for fall and winter. Capes were seen in all textures, colors and lengths, from silk and feathers on the Yves Saint Laurent runway, to leather on Christian Dior. The cape coat adds a final touch of polish for those cool fall days and nights.
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Premium Cotton Cashmere Mix Knitted $75.00
TREND FUR WHERE TO BUY: Bomber Jacket With Faux Fur Collar $400.00 NINEWEST.COM
ASOS Long Fantasy Fur Snood $33.00 ASOS.COM
A touch of fur was seen on winter boots, jackets and sleeves in Chanel’s show, to cropped vests and coats in Valentino and Fendi. The fur is faux and colors range from winter whites, to all shades of browns, camel and the newest shade of grayish beige or what is being named graige.
Naughty Monkey D Lux Faux Fur $80.00 ZAPPOS.COM
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TREND 1950’S WHERE TO BUY: Coast
Deliah Tweed Pencil Skirt $120.00
Asos Triple Ruffle Sleeveless Blouse $48.00
How Was Your Day Dress in Cyan
No surprise that this year’s feminine styles would celebrate the 1950’s fashion, where waists are cinched, curves are accentuated, and pencil skirts and flowing pattern dresses are running rampant. Some of the best 1950’s inspired fashions were seen on the runway of Louis Vuitton, Nina Ricci, Prada and Oscar de La Renta.
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$117.00
MODCLOTH.COM
TRENDS MENS MILITARY
Classic military inspired menswear with a futuristic twist was seen in the collections from Dolce Gabbana to Burberry. From causal Cargo pants, to double breasted military inspired coats to combat boots.
SPORTS COATS-JACKETS
As for men, the styles for fall and winter are similar with a tailored and refined dapper look. Designers had vintage inspirations, as seen in the different styles of sport coats which were a hot item off the runway, with popular textures of velvet, tweed and an unexpected leopard print coat that was seen in the Gucci’s men’s collection. Here is a look at the top overall trends for men:
WHERE TO BUY:
SEANJEAN
Military Hooded Wool Blazer $145.00
TOPMAN
Grey Raw Edge Trim Cardigan $50.00 TOPMAN.COM
Sport coats in all textures and patterns where seen on the runways. This was one of the most popular and completely versatile looks, worn over vests, sweaters or button up shirts or worn with velvet pants. The sport coats of the 2010 fall collection were designed to add a vintage feel to any outfit.
DOUBLE BREASTED SUIT JACKET/COAT
Another vintage inspiration reminiscent of the 1930’s and 50’s was the double-breasted suit and jacket, which was seen all over the winter and fall runway for menswear. This vintage look was on all jackets, from wool coats, to blazers, to suits.
CARDIGANS
Another vintage look was the cardigan sweater. Cardigans are another versatile piece that were layered with button down shirts, turtlenecks, or vests and ties. Heavier, lose fitting wool cardigans were also seen on the runway acting as coat for those chilly fall days and nights.
FLAT FRONT TROUSERS Flat front trousers with a slim fit in neutral colors were making an appearance on all designer runways. A noticeable trend was how the models where wearing the pant with their shoe. In the Louis Vuitton collection, trousers were seen tucked inside of boots for an equestrian feel or rolled up with loafers or sneakers for a more casual look.
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women
Fashion Trend
Tweed Blazer The tweed blazer can go with anything in your closet from trousers, to jeans, to skirts and take your look from day to night.
Taking The Red Dress Replace the little black dress with a little red one-shoulder dress in this year’s popular fabric of velvet. A perfect piece for holiday parties. trends fr can be runway Shearling Jacket A fitted leather jacket with a shearling collar d dress. worn with anything from casual cargo military pants to a fitte closet c Camel Color Cape A wool cape in this year’s popular camel colo r will go well with just about anything in your closet from pencil skirts, to trousers. This piece can sophisticate your simple existing wardrobe and bring an added vintage feel to your dayt ime work wardrobe. inexpe Leather Leggings Trade in last year’s knit leggings for leather to glam up your existing sweaters and knitwear. with c into your warda er ’s 50 19 a d ad to irt a leopard print pencil sk dd A irt Sk red. And can be worn il piece d nc an Pe d te hi ar w , Leop el m ca n, ow br k, ac bl ith w l el w ks robe. Leopard print wor the waist or a blazer. at ed ch cin , ps to n w do with button you ca Cardigan To add some Nordic flair to your wardrobe, a comfo rtable, wool knit cardigan can be worn belted or now to open and layered with other kn itwear. Tailored Trousers Take a m nate w inimalism approach to buyi ng this season’s trouser that can go along w ith just about anything in yo ur closet. erything Knee Socks Ruffle knee length socks can add a feminine twist to short already skirts and sweater dresses paired with boots. clos Faux Fur Vest Add a little fur to your pantsuits, jumpsuits, jeans or dresses with a faux fur vest in a neutral color that can go casual or dressy and with any style. 18 THE G.O.O.D.S MAGAZINE OCTOBER2010
nds to Buy Now
men
g these from the Sport Coat Add a vintage flair by buying a nicely tailored and textured y to your sport coat that can be dressed down or up for any occasion. can be Flat Front Trouser Choo se this trou that will fla ser tter almost any shirt yo with a slim fit in a neu le and t u already h ave in your ral color wardrobe. ensive classic Double-breasted Jacket If you are inspired by this seacalsonly ’scremiatelitaary19or50’s tomati vintage style, a double-breasted jacket will au es that inspired illusion to any outfit. an buy coordi- dCoawrdnigsahnirtAorcaardt-igan sweater can add another layer over a co shirt, and can work tton button from day to night fo r any occasion. with evg that is Scarf A full and fluid scarf can dress up a sport coat or a cardigan, y in your instead of the conventional coat. set. 19
DEUCE BRAND #1 SPOT
by : Whitney Gomes
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Recently, I had the privilege to speak with the minds behind the newest fashion sport accessory, Deuce Brand Watches. I spoke with three members of the team including founder and C.E.O. Gary Hughes, VP of Sales Tom Malloy and Digital Strategy Manager Sean Walser. After first becoming acquainted with the Deuce Brand I did some research on their website www.deucebrand.com and quickly realized that they are not only a functional sports tool but also exhibit style as well as give as much back to the community as possible. I was even more impressed after speaking with them in their office of downtown San Diego, where it all began. “The word Deuce comes from the number two” Hughes explains, “It is the number that I wore throughout my sports career and it always represented one step closer to becoming #1. We wanted to represent Deuce on a sports and urban level so that they can be a useful yet stylish sports accessory.” Their motto is “Look Good, Play Good, Wear deuce.” If this was their original ambition, they have certainly
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achieved it. The bright colors that are not available in your average sports watch as well as the sleek appearance, Deuce displays with perfection Many consumers may wonder what it is besides its unique look that makes Deuce watches special? The answer is in the silicone ion band. Sean Walser explains that “the watches’ functionality is in its negative ion technology, inside every watch we make.” Ions are odorless, tasteless, and invisible molecules found in many natural environments. Hughes gives details of the complexity in the little silicon band; “we take two minerals and crush them down and when we capture this mineral together to put into the silicone, this ion technology carries a health benefit”. Walser makes clear what these health benefits include, “enhancing your mental clarity and help to remove the lactic acid from the muscles after you work out.” Hughes adds, “It improves blood circulation, augments meditation, relieves stress, and provides relief of fatigue after being active.” This is made possible because the ions produce biochemical reactions that enhance the “happy
brain chemical”, serotonin. Pretty impressive for a fashionable sports watch that is completely waterproof as well! There are several ways to wear your Deuce watch as many celebrities have shown us whether they are shooting hoops or simply relaxing. BMX star Dave Mirra is seen on the Deuce website sporting “the double deuce” look with two different colored watches side by side. Recording artist Ashanti is also seen repping the “lots of Deuce” look with her five different pastel colored watches worn on one arm instead of layering bracelets. All kinds of celebrities have been seen wearing their very own Deuce watches including big recording artists such as Jason Derulo, Toni Braxton, and Snoop Dogg to comedian Wayne Brady and professional athletes Ricky Fowler and Deshaun Goldson. San Diego Chargers, L.A. Lakers, and several MLB players have also become acquainted with Deuce Brand. The word is definitely getting out about how innovative and creative these watches really are. Re-
cently, Terrance J from BET’s most watched program “106 & Park” was doing a special segment about «time/getting back to school» while rockin’ his own Deuce watch on Freestyle Friday. The X Games 16 was in Los Angeles this year where Deuce Brand showed off the Limited Edition X Games 16 watch with the X Games Logo on the front created specifically for the event. The G1: Generation One watch also called “The Original” you can purchase online at their website while their newest watch with a thicker band, more color variety, and better water resistance has just come out at the end of September (titled G2: Generation Two). Another great element of this company is that you can customize their watches for your very own fundraiser. All it takes an order of at least three hundred watches to make your cause or organization receive attention. The best part is that you have twenty-four different shades of color to choose from, four different areas to print your own logo (uploaded via computer), and the production time is standard such as all other orders! It is a unique way to promote your
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school, work, or charity with your own durable logo print or design. One of the most important aspects of the Deuce Brand is all of the philanthropic work they are involved in. You can feel good about wearing these watches not only because of their functionality and design, but also because the vast amount of effort, time, and money they bring back to the community. Since it is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it is very fitting to put our fashion spotlight on Deuce Brand watches because of all the work they do in conjunction with the Susan G. Komen and Grind for Life cancer foundations. Breast cancer is a life-threatening illness that spreads to vital organs and has killed millions across the world. In the United States alone, the lifetime risk of breast cancer has more than tripled in the last fifty years. It is awareness foundations such as
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Susan G. Komen that help spread the importance of mammograms because early detection is the key to survival. Malloy, whose own grandmother passed away from breast cancer, claims that “Deuce Brand is able to give $25,000 to breast cancer research this year because of our Susan G. Komen Deuce watches.� Deuce Brand is officially licensed for Susan G. Komen and they donate $2 of every Komen watch sold to the breast cancer foundation to help someday find a cure and increase awareness with a minimum donation of $25,000. The other cancer foundation they work closely with is Grind for Life, an action sports skate charity that supports the fight for cancer. All money raised and donated to Grind for Life helps current cancer patients pay for expensive hospital bills so they can continue to get the correct medical attention they need. The guys at Deuce Brand have created another fund-
raising watch similar to the Susan G. Komen one. The watch is the color of the foundation’s logo, orange, with “Grind for Life” designed on the side. Recently, the Deuce Brand team attended Clash at Clairemont 2010. It is a once a year event where the world’s best skateboard and BMX pros ride together to crush cancer. All of the action sport stars were wearing the Grind for Life Deuce charity watch while they did what they do best all for a great cause. Malloy explains that “this money we raise will go to help cancer patients get to hospitals, get the treatment and care they need, and these types of impacts go beyond the sport world.”
favorite colors for yourself while purchasing some for your family and friends as well! Since it is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, remind yourself to order one of the Susan G. Komen Deuce watches to help raise money for this amazing foundation. Get your very own Deuce watch at www.deucebrand.com. You can also follow the Deuce Brand Team via Twitter, Facebook, and of course their blog located on their website. I’m not sure what these guys have planned for the future, but I canno wait to see what they do next! And remember,
“Look Good, Play Good, Wear deuce”.
Meeting with the minds behind the Deuce Brand made me realize how passionate they are within the production of their unique watches and well as the donation of their efforts and funds to major philanthropic causes. With all the functionality and greatness behind this intricate silicone ion band, you would think these watches would be out of the price range for most consumers. However, at a very economically-friend $20 per watch, you can buy one in every shade of 25 your
story by: Angela Soberanes
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The British flag waves proud behind photographer, founder and C.E.O. of BritBoy Fashion Brian Terry. What started as an attempt to make a form fitting jacket for himself has led Terry to discover his love for fashion and designing clothing. Launched during LA fashion week in March of 2010, BritBoy has been apart of more than twelve fashion shows since his debut.
photography by: Natalie Sema makeup by: Kami Powell 27
Erika Erika Laney Laney a.k.a. a.k.a. Eureka Eureka Starr Starr twitter: twitter: estarworld estarworld email: email: estarworld5@gmail.com estarworld5@gmail.com
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On the catwalk, you could see
Terry’s love for Britannia with his confederate label patched on his clothes and handbags. “I wanted to start the show with a distinct iconic image at the beginning and the end to let them know when BritBoy starts and when BritBoy is finished”, says Terry. San Diego Entertainer named Terry one of the, “Icons leading the way in SD”, in their August issue of this year.
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Ashley Laney a.k.a. Ash Bash twitter: ashbash06 email: ashleyelaney@gmail.com
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Based out of San Diego, his clothing line fit’s
the SD culture and weather. His line is not seasonal and focuses on the everyday life of a person as well as they nightlife. Weather forecasters cannot predict the San Diego weather so having an outfit that can withstand a hot day, a cool night or a rainy day can benefit any San Diegan in any situation. His tweed white jacket looks sophisticated and can be dressed up or dressed down with slacks or a dark denim. Attention getting dresses show off style and class without risking being too sexy showing just the right amount of skin. Living most of his fashion career in the states and being from Great Britain has allowed Terry to bring in fashions from his country to the trendy streets of California.
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Danielle Danielle Hazlett Hazlett a.k.a a.k.a DJDJ Danni Danni GG email: email: dannijojo@gmail.com dannijojo@gmail.com
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A mixture of sleek and layered dresses are
ideal for ladies between the ages of 16 to 30, and t-shirts, jackets, and button-up’s for men ranging between 18 and 30. Of course any fashionable human being can pull off the BritBoy look at any age. BritBoy attracts those who want attention without making noise.
For those who may not know BritBoy, “He
is clean cut, goes out but not the suit type, a cut above, people notice him but not with the bling or gold. He is under spoken and high maintenance, definitely an attention getter”, said Terry.
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His women’s line of dresses are sourced from small independent fashion designers in London. Dresses come in a variety of colors styles and sizes and are made up of lycra so they are stretchy and form fitting and one-
hundred percent classy. Shape fitting dresses with layers and scrunched material allow for a sleek silhouette even when sitting His signature metallic clutch by Helen Roshford is small but packs a lot of style. On the runway, the cameras cannot miss the red white and blue flag of Britain embedded in the front and back. Thigh high dresses give the illusion of mile long legs and a daring personality. “These dresses are not for the timid�, says Terry. Complimenting his short dress is a subtle neckline that sits under the collar without revealing too much
35 skin, suitable for a nice day or a wild night.
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BritBoy allows men to choose from a
variety of t-shirt jackets and button ups in different styles, colors and sizes with his trademark symbol of a person holding a camera in one hand and the world in the other. Both his men’s camouflage military jacket and his women’s confederate jacket with quarter sleeves fits well and can be paired with a jean or a dress for day and as well as when it’s time to hit the club. The easy transition of BritBoy styles from day to night is suitable for anyone who wants to make an impression during the day and continue on until the sun goes down. 37
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Twenty years ago this Brit-
ish aircraft designer did not think he would be in the states and launching a fashion line that would explode onto the streets of San Diego and paint the city red, blue and white. The British have come, flag painted on their backs.
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ReynardReynolds Reynel Reynolds twitter: mrtouchdown81
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TOUGH LUXE: ENLIST IN THE MILITARY TREND by:ReneeGeorge Our new fashion season has started out with nothing less than excitement. As many of the runway shows, fashion events, and ever-so eager magazine purchases took place, we can now settle our keen eye on what to fill our wardrobe with. What’s more exciting? Every right look we create is not yet complete without the most sought after trend in our continuing fall accessory hunt; Military inspired adornments have arrived and are exactly on point. The continued abundance in military flare grows as the season gains momentum, and so does our need to have an array of solidified statement pieces on our fashion roster. This style has been trending for a couple of seasons. This time around, the key point is to spin it the right way without going overboard – collaborate with other key fall trends and have it your way with DIY projects. To simply put it, stack your neck with necklaces. The pendant necklace, also making noise for the season as the easiest to wear accessory fit well in executing the look. Subdued gold and rusted copper tones are the ones to zero in on, and the more coin or key inspired, the richer the look. Include bullet pendant necklaces in this stackable ensemble as well. Worn solo as a standout piece or side by side with a variety of pendants including dog tag inspired pieces, bullet necklaces are being re-worked more than ever this season; adorned with studs, diamonds and crystals, stocking up on two or three is key. Make sure one of them is an eye-catching, bling-type gold.
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Buckle up and strap your feet in. Ankle boots, some of which are peep toe, stomp their way through winter. The rougher the boot, the more stylish you walk. Hues in camo, green, neutrals, and our classic favorite, black, are piling up as the season progresses. It’s best to have a couple of different variations in our buckled up beauties; If you are channeling the aviator in you, think of a knee-high brown boot - and when your MadMax soldier comes out to play, sink your feet into strap full, multi-buckled ankle boot. We all know that the market won’t let us down with featuring a wide variety, either.
We get used to (and probably love) finding accessories when our seasons are in full force. Don’t think twice - make your purchase and revive that specific look by adding new things to it. Changing it up is refreshing.
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Fun Items and Do It Yourself projects: Brooches
The easiest way to create a brooch without scanning vintage stores or buying one that may fall apart is easy. If you have existing brooches, re-work them by following some of the steps listed below.
Step One - Make a trip to your local craft store and pick up a jumbo size safety pin. Step Two - Purchase charms with an oxidized feel to them, or recycle ones you already own by throwing them on your jumbo pin. Step Three - Simply pin your creation on your sleeve or military messenger bag and wear it well.
Shoulder Adornments
This is probably our toughest, rarest, and most expensive sought after piece. It’s new, it’s hot, and it continues to be spotted on celebrities. Since there are only a few designers that are really detailing this piece and they are looking quite fabulous. Our prediction? There will be an overload of shoulder savvy accessories for us to choose from, and probably at a decent price come December. All you need is feathers, a couple yards of gold chain, glue with a thread and needle.
Step One - Sew beaded appliqué the front of the top corner of feather patch. Step Two - Cut half a yard of the chain and leave to the side Step Three - Loop the remaining 2yards of chain twice. Sew the chain to the back upper corner of the feather patch Step Four - Take a half-yard of the remaining chain and cut it into 5 or 4 small pieces. Sew each small chain to the back of the Beaded Appliqué next to the golden rustic chains. Step Five - Outline the back feather patch (the fabric holding the feathers together) onto scrap fabric, then cut. Step Six - Hot glue cut out fabric to the back of the feather patch for a finishing touch.
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Military Patches They have been around for years, and now we get to play with them on a ready-to-wear basis. Our suggestion is to go back to military roots and find your nearest Army Surplus Store, pick the ones that best suit your style and follow the steps below. You’ll also need either a needle and thread or glue, and the deciding piece on where to apply your patch.
Step One – Do a test run of the patch on your desired piece: If it’s a thicker fabric like your camo tote, use a thicker type of thread or glue it on and your good to go. Step Two – If you decide to sew it on, preferably with a lighter fabric like a button down or a jacket, sew carefully around the edges. Don’t forget to knot and cut your thread so it’s not on the outside but remains underneath. Step Three – Since patches are normally of thickness, take an iron on low to it and press.
Acquiring a couple of military-influenced items that you can pair with tailored basics will create a look that’s fashion-forward, stylish, sexy and so right now. Remember not to over do it; adding elements of this trend to your personal style casts a much better light. Don’t forget your aviators when your look is all said and done.
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IT’S ALL BC 48 THE G.O.O.D.S MAGAZINE OCTOBER2010
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Many agree there hasn’t been a decent group in Hip-Hop since the LOX, some would go as far to say since A Tribe Called Quest. Well fret no more because there’s a new group out of San Diego that intends to end the drought. Enter Black Cotton (they’ve since decided to go by the acronym BC), An amazingly talented Hip-Hop trio that manages to flawlessly blend Hip-Hop, and RnB, which translates to a freshness the industry has been pining for. Their music is far from contrite or predictable. Their style is neither complicated nor simple, it’s baby porridge for the ears and soul and they plan to feed the masses. They’ve performed all over the greater San Diego area as well as Orange County and have opened up for major artists.
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Their resume includes Mitchy Slick, Wiz Khalifa and Yung Berg. The group is currently promoting its sixth venture entitled “Keys to the Suite”. The album title is a double entendre that mirrors their success as well as their funloving lifestyle. Their No-bad-days attitude is apparent throughout the album with joints like “Weekend”, “Something About It” and “Penthouse Music”. And tracks such as “What Goes Up”, “Japan” and “So Good” display their lyrical prowess. Braggadocio by nature, but equipped with the skills to back it up, BC promises to make its mark in the ever-evolving game by going down as one of the dopest groups in the annals of Hip-Hop. “Keys to the Suite” will drop mid-late October. You can check out their 51 music on www.itallbc.com.
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INTERN FOR THE GOODS MAGAZINE.
intern@thegoodsmag.com 53
VINCENT GORDON
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If you don’t consider yourself to be an aesthete for paintings, you probably refer to Vincent van Gogh for your most recent recollections of an artist. Perhaps instead, if you were a history aficionado, or a movie buff, you may mention Gordon Parks. Now, if I told you there is one man that could relate the two with his own personal twist, you might roll your eyes in disbelief and ask, “Who“. The reply is simple enough, Vincent Gordon. I know you may be thinking I’m making the comparison simply based on name alone and this is not the case. The vivid colors used in Gordon’s paintings are strikingly reminiscent of what Van Gogh is famous for, while still capturing natural human emotion behind childlike characters that even Gordon Parks would be proud of. Vincent Gordon was born and raised in the suburbs of Chicago. The home where he lived had an open door policy, meaning anyone in the community in need, could stay in the home for as long as they pleased. With all of the unique individuals Gordon encountered while growing up, his perception of the psychology of people was a major influence in the development of his art. He started creating his art like most, by doodling, as a young child during church. He would draw playful animals like bunnies and foxes and even still uses those same characters today. Gordon credits his grandmother as always having been an avid supporter of him pursuing his art and recalls his earliest art memory is “writing on fogged glass while my grandmother told me how my drawings are wonderful and that I should always keep my talents close”. Moving to San Diego was a huge change in atmosphere for Gordon, which helped expand the production of many of his recent pieces of art. Upon arriving in San Diego, Vincent worked as a sales rep for years while continuing to make his art. It was during this time that Vincent was able to balance his priorities and views of the world. Feeling the sales he participat-
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ed in were a help to no one, and he was not heading in the positive light he wanted people to see him in, Vincent needed a change. While Vincent was painting one day, Matt Schugar spotted his work and immediately wanted to work with him. While not a painter himself, more of an aesthete, Schugar wanted to take Vincent in and help him develop his work full-time. Today, the works of Vincent Gordon are purchased by many types of people and his paintings have been placed all throughout the United States. He participates in charity events to encourage kids to reach for their dreams, as do many of his characters throughout their growth and maturing stages. With over 50 recurring characters in his collection, each individual likened
to a real world everyday person and named after the emotion they express, e.g. Mad Rabbit, Vincent is sure to impress. When asking Vincent about his own work he says “I don’t care if the viewer laughs, cries, screams, shouts, shakes, or dances as long as they feel something and are reminded that they are still responsible for their own happiness�. Vincent currently works with The Infusion Project with Matt Schugar and is a traveling artist. For more information on Vincent Gordon and to see more of his artwork please visit
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good pictures
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“The basic characteristics of something is the nature of the beast; often used when there’s an aspect of something that cannot be changed or that is unpleasant or difficult.” Just as any of nature’s beasts, droves of men flock to their local watering holes, day in an day out, in search of a mate. Some fast, others slow, vast differences in their tactical approach, yet the same end goal remains, capture thy prey. Now for most, this act of meeting new people is far less barbaric and much less exciting. A dinner with some friends, having a drink with co-workers, or during a favorite pastime, is a great way to broaden your social network and meet new people with similar interests. Others prefer large social gatherings, parties, clubs, or concerts to fare their folk, yet regardless of the venue, most can do so safely and responsibly. However, for a select class of males, living and breathing in nearly every habitat on the planet, the social etiquette behind mixing and mingling has managed to evade them. After hundreds of years of technology and sophistication the caveman like “club and drag” method is far outdated and is no longer socially accepted. Acting off of ego, most-likely spirits, and sheer bravado, their “shoot first, ask questions later” mentality have made navigating through the ever wavering world of the single, seem more like juggling chainsaws, blind folded, for even the most experienced daters.
NATURE OF THE BEAST
by: Shay Dean Middleton 59
While I will remark that “closed mouths don’t get fed” , there exists a fine line between being assertive, and obnoxious when it comes to showing interest in the opposite sex. No one want’s to date a dud but no one like’s a show-off either. Those that can dance this fine line while maintaining social etiquette seem to fair the best. Unfortunately, the Do’s and Don’ts of the dating world are like fine wine, they take time to perfect and most people don’t get them. Therefore, every so often someone must come along and reintroduce what is accepted and not, to reacquaint daters with today’s social agenda. While many have turned to online sources looking for love, I’ve compiled a few pointers, this time just for the guys, to help those still in the real world dating, traverse through the social highway of love. Don’t be too aggressive. I couldn’t begin to count how many times women have told me that they will ignore even as simple of a gesture as “hello” from a man because opening up conversation could lead to an unwanted all night affair. There are plenty of subtle and not-so subtle ways to show a woman that you ‘re more than interested without crossing the line. Over asserting yourself can also make you seem desperate or scare the chick off in the first place. The key here is to be engaging without being annoying. Besides grabbing and groping won’t get you anywhere but kicked out of the club anyway. Don’t be a Hater. It sounds cliché but tis too true. Bringing negative vibes to the conversation is a great way to get you 86’ed for good. Talking trash on the next guy or gal not only makes you look insecure and immature, but it also makes you look well, immature. You’re better off patting yourself on the back a few extra times or getting to know more about her, than spending time downing the next guy.
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Do YOU! Seems simple enough but for many, it can the hardest part of being in a new and unfamiliar environment. Remember, unless you’re in it for a one-night stand and don’t mind lying, there’s no reason to spend time letting someone get to know the “fake” you over the “real“ you. The sooner you start being yourself, the easier it will be for you and your mate to weed out those that are incompatible. Unless the Sadie Hawkins movement is on the rise, the nature of this beast, picking a mate, will be a chore for most, men and women alike. The less assertive women are to share their say in the matter, the more likely the over-assertive male will rear his nasty head. Have fun, be responsible, and remember in this world, what goes around comes around. While there are still plenty more fish in the sea, no one wants to be fishing in a sea of disgruntled fish. While I am no relationship expert or dating guru, I have had my fair share of run-ins with the opposite sex. I’ve dated, dumped, chased, and been chumped. Been single, in relationships, and a mixture of both. People come to me for advice and I do what I can.
WE MAKE VIDEOS WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/GOODSMAG 61
VENDOME: London’s Luxury Comes to Life by: Alexa Mangrum
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It is Industry Night at Vendome, an elite Mayfair modernist nightspot alive with the glory of glamour and above all the fever of an approaching weekend. My own night is strictly the later, as I am late, lost, and fresh from the grunge of the underground subway. Upon approaching the minimally chic entry I expect a Kate Moss or at least a Taylor Momsen look alike to beam lazars at me from studded Louboutins, teeth barred against entry to the famed underground Xanadua where palatial interiors fuse in perfection with the madness of a modern spin on the 70’s. My appearance however, is anything but majestic as my attire is perhaps more appropriately akin to a jog about than an Industry Night event at what promises to be the premiere London’s exclusive club experience. Instead of infamous exclusion famed at other popular Mayfair clubs, the bouncer is none of the above and genuinely seems to welcome me into the dark double doors, catching me off guard. Yet, perhaps I have no room to be surprised as my own exploration of the London scene has yet to be what anything of what I envisioned. Far less Winehousesque-escapades, muchmore Black Eyed Peas, and an introduction to the British tradition of birthday cakes at midnight in case your Patron needs an even sweeter pairing. Five minutes and two flights of stairs down to the wonderland of Vendome sub-reality has set in. While the bouncer may be warm and inviting above ground, down the rabbit hole cool rules. And the preferred currency? At Vendome, it pays to be posh if payment comes in the form of well-dressed blonde’s game to get lost around the focal point of the club, a raised revolving DJ booth by circulardance floor.
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The space is designed in a perfect circle—a tribute to both the minimalist interiors that have populated London’s hottest West End for the last decade, and in homage to the revitalization of the dance floor. Founded by legendary UK nightlife visionary Freddie Frampton and interior design guru Paul Daly, the focus lies onenhancing illicitinhibitions. “Vendôme is out of space, in outer space. The specifics are irrelevant - view it as a whole, but most of all have fun on the dance floor… it is cool again to be the idiot” Daly notes. An oasis for the expensively inclined. Perfectly reflective of this ethos, the space is ruled by abandon, an infinite sphere of soft lights, slim alcoves, andplush velour booths. An exotic arena for agendas of all kind complete witha Robin Thicke look alike beating congo drums in time to both popular UK and American favorites, from Chromeo to Ke$ha, and all the in between one could dream. At 2:30AM while traditional American clubs might see the night wearing thin, Vendome gets a second wind, the doors unleashing another pack of partygoer’s. As the mid-mark of the night heads toward morning (most venues in the UK officiallycall it a night at 4am) reality creeps back and wetraipse out of the underworld into the well lit night. Feeling emboldened by three hours of beats and bottles the bodyguard and I meet again, me looking as equally disheveledas upon my arrival, though this time less lost in translation and more with the swagger a night well spent. “Why are you so nice?” I question, perhaps the perfunctory drunk girl question, aimed at a man whose job it is to be selective, the very opposition of ‘nice’. “Look”, he says softly as if giving way to the great golden ticket of nocturnal London, “There are clubs for people who think they are V.I.P’s and expect the world to treat them thus and then there are clubs for everyone who actually is a VIP, and if you are neither (a maybe not-so-nice nudge to my unorthodox entry and attire)… well why the hell not see that side for the night?”. Well then, why not?
Vendome is located at 85 Piccadilly, Mayfair, London, open Mon-Sat 10:00-4:00 Sun Closed.
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BEAUTY:THE BASICS HOW TO APPLY FOUNDATION
B E F O R E
1
//Prep the skin.
2
//Conceal.
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Your face is your canvas so preparing your skin is key in obtaining a flawless finish with any makeup application. With clean skin,first apply a great primer and an oil-freemoisturizerfour
By concealing underneath the eyes you cover-up dark circles and instantly look well rested. Using a small fluffy blending brush (we recommend MAC: 224 brush). To avoid creasing,apply a small amount of concealor to underneath the eyes. Using a MACs 224 brush the concealor blends in to the skin.
//Foundation.
A F T E R
That way you avoid harsh lines. Using a foundation brush (we recommend Stila: Foundation brush #27). Start by applying a small amount of foundation to the T-zone then blending outwards. Using a Sti ppling brush (we recommend MAC: Short Dou Fiber Brush 130) blend foundation outwards towards hairline for a flawless finish.
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//Set. Using a large powder brush (we recommend,MAC: 134 Large powder brush),set foundation and concealer with a Powder using a large fluffy powder brush.
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UNWINED
by: Adam Stemmler
The key factor in choosing an appropriate glass for the “new” wine drinker is to simply be honest and aware of what biases and proclivities your palate has in regards to isolated flavors. Because no two people have the same sense of smell or taste, it’s important to be aware of what you are prone to and make selections accordingly. While this might seem intimidating or tough for someone that is a novice in the wine world, a small amount of information will actually make this a relatively easy process.... here’s how to start.
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1. I recommend new wine drinkers to start
domestically with their selections. One would think and hope that the average American would be more familiar with local geography than the appelations in Countries they have never visited. It’s also important to note that many European wine producing countries label bottles according to their appelation (location) and not according to their varietal (species of grape.) Before becoming a student of wine, I would have no way of knowing that a red wine from a producer in Burgundy France would be made only of Pinot Noir or that a white Bordeaux would be some combination of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillion. Domestic wines are also generally more fruit driven which is more condusive to the typical American consumer.
2. Know your palate bias. Do you have
a sweet tooth or are you more of a savory person? Do you prefer the flavors of fresh ripe fruit over the rich flavors of coffee and cocoa? This are pivotal questions that are essential in choosing the best choice for your bias. If you love the flavor of Gin for example, chances are you are going to enjoy Arona Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough New Zealand because they share the common flavors of gooseberry, grapefruit, juniper and fresh cut grass. If you love the flavors of pear tart, creme brulee, and apple pie, my guess is that you would appreciate Laird Cold Creek Chardonnay for the same reasons. If you love coffee, milk chocolate, and acai, the rich, complex jammy flavors of Suicide Syrah will pack the flavor punch you desire.
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3. Don’t be affraid to explore.
One of the most amazing things about the personal experience of enjoying wine is the journey to get to your destination. Trial and error will play an important role in establishing what you really enjoy and with each passing glass, (no matter how much you love or dislike it) you will learn something new and have information that will make your next selection easier. Through trial and error you might find that you love the seemingly over ripe fruit flavors generally associated with Paso Robles, or that domestic Reisling is simply too sweet for your palate... the reality is that you will never know until you try. The point that I am making, is that your experience with wine should be uniquely your own, so embrace your curiosity and enjoy the ride.
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@thegoodsmag 69
Dripping wax candles, a chalkboard an three items to pop out at you. The wooden tab bistro, while the dim lighting and comfortably The informality of paper table sheets and the make Blue Bohème feel like you are dining in the patio is situated in mason jars, and there seem as if it is family style seating, and with th include yourself in your neighbor’s conversati dim lighting, classic stemware and rustic Fren
In just three years, Blue Bohème has ma staple, and a must visit for San Diegans looki San Diego’s historic suburb of Kensington, Blu regular and new patrons alike. Expanding the Bohème has changed the typical bar food stig
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BLEU BOHEME by: Ammar Moheize
nd a Plexiglas covered cork menagerie are the first bles in the bar area give the impression of a cozy y familiar subtleness of the bar brings you in closer. informal t-shirt, jeans and apron attire of the staff n a French kitchen. The silverware at the bar and on are no place settings, making the restaurant almost he closeness of the tables, you very well could ion. The dĂŠcor is simple, and elegant, focusing on nch countryside charm.
anaged to become a Kensington neighborhood ing for a friendly classic French fare. Located in ue Bohème is now offering something new for its eir menu to include a happy hour from 5-6pm, Blue gma of beer nuts and celery sticks.
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What Blue’s happy hour lacks in time, it makes up for in taste, with amazing signature appetizers and beverages. Straying away from typical happy hour menu items, Blue instead offers up a combination of their specialty lunch sandwiches, popular dishes, and some newold fashioned takes on French bar food. For starters, Les Chiches Frits du Chef, or the chef’s fried chickpeas. A great alternative to beer nuts, these little morsels of fried goodness are a great combination with any one of the Belgian and French beers that Blue offers, especially the Chimay Tripel White, which they keep on draft. Crunchy with a kick on the outside, smooth on the inside, you’ll never want to look at a basket of bar nuts again. Their newest dish, the Poutine (Large French Fries topped with a rich gravy and cheddar cheese curds), homage to new Head Chef/Owner Ken Irvine’s native Montreal, at first seems out of place on the menu, but once you try it, you may never have your fries served up any other way. They fry the potatoes just enough to make them crispy, but keep them soft enough to be able to absorb all of the flavor packed into the rich, creamy gravy and cheddar cheese curds. A great compliment to almost any beverage you can muster, but I suggest the Amancaya from Bordeaux, a French Martini, or for beer drinkers, the Fisher Amber.
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If you are wise and daring enough to extend your happy hour to dinner, you wont be disappointed. Upon taking over the restaurant this last May, Chef Irvine specifically rearranged the menu, combining classical Southern French cuisine with a changing seasonal menu. Taking the hassle and intimidation out of ordering at a French restaurant, Irvine has made his menu very friendly and easy to navigate, rare for French fare. For starters, be sure to try the Escargots de Bourgogne. For those of you who have never had the opportunity to enjoy this classic French starter course, harvested snails cooked with butter, garlic, and extra virgin olive oil, don’t worry. Escargot is meant to be eaten with bread, which Blue Bohème serves fresh daily, and good wine. The St. Martin Pinot Noir is a good pairing with the rich, velvety, garlic bomb. And if you should be so lucky as to walk in on a night when they’re offering their take on Fois Gras, you had better order a plate for the table. For the entrée, you can’t go wrong with the Boeuf Bourguignon, a classic French dish served up perfectly. However, the mussels, or Moules, are the real specialty of the restaurant. Serving them up six different ways, and coming in both entrée and appetizer portions, you could make an entire meal out of them. My personal favorite, and a must try for anyone new to world of Moules Frites, is the Moules au Roquefort. Mussels steamed in white wine sauce with blue cheese cream and scallions. For those preferring poultry, the Confit de Canard is one of the best duck dishes you’ll find outside of Paris. Be sure to allow yourself room for desert, their flourless chocolate cake is worth sharing, or even taking home for later. Besides the addition of a Happy Hour and a Seasonal menu, Chef Irvine is also putting in a newly remodeled kitchen, to be opened by mid September, in time for Restaurant Week, and has changed the restaurant’s vendors.
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Choosing to use San Diego’s vast resources to his advantage, Chef Irvine has gone out to pick the best local Carlsbad Oysters and Mussels, as well as local fruit and vegetables from San Diego farmers and farmers markets. This shift has allowed for Chef Irvine to tinker with the menu to perfect some of his favorite classic dishes from Portugal, Spain, and Southern France. For the upcoming season, expect to see a lot more seafood, as well as diverse bistro classics. Chef Irvine has also revamped the wine list, making it easier to navigate, and filling it with French wines, categorized by region and type, making it easy for any non-wine drinker to find a great pairing. Their signature martinis follow the basic French Vodka/Vermouth route, but each one offers its own spin. The Basil Martini adds, of course, fresh basil, while the Blue Martini adds in house blue-cheese stuffed olives. Look for Chef Irvine and Manager Matthew Cope while you enjoy a meal there, they will most likely be the ones to greet you at the door and perhaps even share a cocktail or two with you at the bar. Signature Cocktails/Aperitif: Basil Martini, Blue Martini, French Martini, and Absinthe Drip Happy Hour Suggestions: Les Huîtres sur la Demi Coquille (Oysters on Half Shell), Le Poutine (above), and Les Chiches Frits du Chef (above) Appetizers: Calamrs Frits (Flash Fried Calamari served with house Aoli), Escargots de Bourgogne (above), and Fois Gras (above, only served as a special) Entrées: Everything (no really, everything) Desserts: Flourless Chocolate Cake Wine Snob: St. Martin’s Pinot Noir, Amancaya Malbec-Cabernet Blend Digestif: French Connection (not for the faint of heart, One Part Hennessy, One Part Remy Martin)
Taste Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Décor/Atmosphere: 4 out of 5 Staff Knowledge and Friendliness: 4.5 out of 5 Wine List: 5 out of 5 Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5 74 THE G.O.O.D.S MAGAZINE OCTOBER2010
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In a few decades, the story of how Facebook was created will be the stuff of cultural history. Future generations won’t care much more about Facebook’s creation than they would about say, Google’s. Add Mark Zuckerberg and several lawsuits to the story, however, and you’ll get public interest. Turn the tale into a movie, in fact, and you’ll get something so gripping and powerful that people will forget that this is true life and Zuckerberg is real. Besides obvious liberties taken with the script and its portrayal of people, this movie is historical drama at its best. The Social Network, or the “Facebook movie,” is written by screenwriting legend Aaron Sorkin and directed by David Fincher. Based on Ben Mezrich’s book, The Accidental Millionaires, the film stars Jesse Eisenberg as Mark Zuckerberg and Andrew Garfield as Zuckerberg’s one-time best friend and business partner, Eduardo Saverin. In a movie full of disputes, such as whether or not Zuckerberg stole the idea of Facebook from Harvard classmates the Winklevoss twins (Armie Hammer) and Divya Narendra (Max Minghella), the audience doesn’t once feel over-stimulated. In fact, despite loads of information about programming codes and a fast-paced dialogue that has Zuckerberg talking a mile a minute, the movie flows smoothly and the ending comes as a shock. It’s shocking not because of its unpredictability, but because of the horror movie suspense we feel throughout, despite the fact that most Americans know what happens in the end. The story itself is one that has been making headlines for years. After meeting with the Winklevoss twins to discuss an idea they had for a Harvard-based social networking site, Zuckerberg gets to work on his own site, which is funded by the business-savvy and likeable Saverin. In the movie version of events, Zuckerberg’s idea is further fueled by a breakup with a girl (Rooney Mara), which prompts him to start revenge blogging. Because Zuckerberg declined to participate in the movie, we’ll never know if this really happened, but it does make for a dazzling storyline and ultimately, our antihero wins some sympathy because of it. On his way to earning billions, Zuckerberg meets Sean Parker, Napster creator, played to scandalous perfection by Justin Timberlake, who easily has the movie’s best one-liners. Parker, a drugusing womanizer, is the antithesis to Saverin’s controlled businessman and Zuckerberg has to choose between the two as his business grows. It wouldn’t be the fantastic movie (and heart-wrenching tale) that it is if Zuckerberg hadn’t stabbed Saverin in the back, as we’re meant to believe. (Interestingly, Saverin himself did cooperate with Mezrich’s account, so perhaps this contributed to his portrayal.) Sorkin’s dialogue is witty and smart, and Fincher’s directing style displays all of his signature clout. It is dazzling, moving quickly between takes and the past and present. Weisenberg offers the only portrayal of Zuckerberg many have known, and he plays him as having borderline- Asperger’s syndrome. Weisenberg’s Zuckerberg is beyond Harvard-level smart, but when it comes to any type of social situation, he almost unfailingly messes it up. Garfield is wonderful as Saverin, the honest guy we feel bad for from the start. And the surprisingly adept Timberlake plays Parker with ease and hilarity, making him both irresponsible and Zuckerberg’s intellectual equal at the same time. The film succeeds on many levels, but perhaps mostly because of the fact that the audience is in on the story. Facebook has more than 500 million active users, so it’s highly likely that a large percentage of any given theater audience is comprised of Facebook users. We all remember when, where and why we first joined the site, and whether it was to keep in touch with friends or to meet a spouse or join a group, we joined because it was a social phenomenon. Despite the shortcomings the company is shown to have had, it wins because, as the fictional Zuckerberg proclaims early on in the film, it will never end. This film, then, is just one more way to keep the story going. The Social Network is rated PG-13 and is playing in theaters nationwide.
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THE TOWN
review by: Tina Safi
Ben Affleck stars in and directs The Town (Warner Bros.), a crime drama that features a cross-class-lines romance, explosive car chases and bank robberies aplenty in a somewhat straight storyline. Despite the conventional plot and perhaps one too many shots of the Bunker Hill monument, the movie is perfectly cast and features a bevy of exceptional performances, including one by The Hurt Locker’s Jeremy Renner as townie thug James “Jem” Coughlin. Affleck is Doug MacRay, the leader of a group of four Charlestown born-and-raised bank robbers who are being pursued by the FBI after one too many heists. Affleck’s directing skills will earn him more praise than his acting, however, at least in this particular role. While his Boston accent is faultlessly executed, it well should be, as Affleck was raised in Cambridge and has developed for himself somewhat of a Boston niche in Hollywood (Good Will Hunting, Gone Baby Gone). The role of Boston local is one he plays well, but ultimately Affleck’s performance is overshadowed by greater ones, which (on the upside) certainly speaks to his skill as a director. One of these stellar performances is by Renner, whose yuppie-hating, guntoting Jem is the hooligan we’re supposed to hate. Despite doing everything he can to secure movie-goer loathing (shooting at anything that moves, reacting… unsympathetically to Doug’s desire to leave the “business”), Jem is a sad figure who doesn’t invite hatred as much as pity. He is a man who has nothing to lose, fresh out of jail off of a nine-year conviction; a man who has never known life to offer him any alternative to committing crimes.
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And here’s where the story comes in: After their last big gig, Jem, in a moment of chaos, takes bank manager Claire (Rebecca Hall) as a hostage and then abruptly releases her. To ensure that Claire, who hasn’t seen the men but certainly heard their voices, won’t squeal, Doug decides to check up on her by way of stalking her. After some Laundromat flirting, the characters embark on a misguided romance. As an audience, we don’t expect movies to be realistic; far from it, as we crave high-intensity romance and passion and drama. However, The Town, which is based on Chuck Hogan’s novel, The Prince of Thieves, is the kind of movie that sort of expects you to accept some pretty unlikely scenarios. That being said, if you’re okay with a little bit of unrealism, Affleck and Hall make a comfortable on-screen couple, the townie and the “toonie” (local speak for yuppie). Yes, in the real world, Claire would certainly recognize Affleck’s gravelly voice. And OK, in the real world, the Prius-driving, suited-up bank manager with a fondness for community gardening probably wouldn’t head out for drinks with a local criminal who doesn’t own items of clothing without “Boston” written on them. But the real world has no place in the movies.
the ex-girlfriend of Doug MacRay, Lively’s unglamorous turn is almost painfully authentic. Despite only a few minutes of screen time, she plays a pivotal role in the movie, as does Jon Hamm in his portrayal of cold FBI agent Adam Frawley. As the stereotypical government official, determined to catch the “bad guys” no matter what, Hamm nails the role of a Frawley, who has encountered too many smooth-talking criminals in his career to feel bad for anyone.
Speaking of the real world, or at least reality as imagined by television shows, Gossip Girl’s Blake Lively is the antithesis of her TV character, Serena. As tragic druggie Krista,
The Town is rated ‘R’ and is playing in theaters nationwide.
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Despite some weaknesses in the plot, the movie establishes Affleck as a great director, proving that Gone Baby Gone was no fluke. The dialogue is light even at times of high drama, which prevents the film from becoming too slow. The gun fights and car chases are beautifully filmed, especially one through Boston’s historic North End, which any local can attest is hard to navigate even on foot. Affleck knows how to keep us on the edge of our seats; he has mastered how to create tension and anticipation without becoming too gimmicky. And that, ultimately, isn’t acting. It’s the real thing.
S . D . O . O . G A R EXT
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MODEL: Andrei Razmeritsa astrahim@yahoo.com
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HAIR/MAKEUP: Brooke Hill STYLIST: The Haute Haus 81
HAIR/MAKEUP: Brooke Hill STYLIST: The Haute Haus
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MODEL: Laura Ă˜degard laura.odegard1@gmail.com
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THANK 86 THE G.O.O.D.S MAGAZINE OCTOBER2010
K YOU 87
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