Hollywood Weekly Feburary 2009

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CONTENTS COVER STORY

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Ed Hardy Vodka- Raising The BAR on Taste!

INDUSTRY

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H.W’s Oscar’s Special ‘Scene’ In LA Inside Sundance 2009 Dexter Kills In Ratings Actors Spotlight: Roger Groh, Chairman of the Board LA Theater Beat

EDITORIAL

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Key Ingredients To Cooking Up Love

MUSIC 32

The 2009 Grammy’s Special

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Quench Your Thirst With The Water Loft Valentine’s Day Gift Guide

PUBLISHER/EDITOR Prather Jackson

FILM Iman Lyons

VICE PRESIDENT Bernice Harris

LIFE & STLYE EDITOR Niki Shadrow

VP MARKETING Michael D. Coxson

OPERATIONS Erskine D. McSwain (1991-2000)

DIR. OF MARKETING Launy Rhem ADVERTISING Joseph Mandel DISTRIBUTOR NEWSWAYS ASSOCIATE EDITOR Anthony Calderon CREATIVE DIRECTOR Chelsea Patterson GRAPHIC DESIGN Chelsea Patterson PHOTOGRAPHY Bill Jones

PRODUCTION MANAGER Hector Santacruz CONTRIBUTORS Raina Silberstein Anthony Calderon Lili Ramirez Leah Michele Yananton Sarah Klegman Jessica Amodeo Pamela Spyrs Adam Freeman Pockross Andy Nguyen Rachel Stuhler Jenny Werth K. Carlson Leah Yananton Rayne Sieling Steve Zall Sid Fish

Hollywood Weekly is a monthly publication wholly owned by Jackson Publishing Company. © 2008 All Rights Reserved. Reproduction of any content without written permission of the Publisher is expressly prohibited. Letters to the Editor may be sent to: Hollywood Weekly, 4221 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 290-14, Los Angeles, CA 90010. Email: editor@jacksonpublishing.com. For Advertising inquiries call:

(323) 965-0555, or Online at: www.hollywoodweekly.net

SERVICES

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By. Anthony Calderon 4 HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY

t’s a magical L.A. night. Chilled just right… You’re rolling in your convertible Mustang down Sunset Blvd. on your way to your first real Hollywood party. You’ve played this party out in your mind a million times. You’re surrounded by gorgeous models who listen attentively to you tell your wild stories about being a Studio P.A. You’ve just finished an especially funny anecdote and as the models laugh you lean back and ask the bartender to give you another shot of Ed Hardy Vodka. The models study your face as you take a swig of the vodka – it’s smooth, so you don’t have to make that pained expression most amateur drinkers make… The models are spellbound.

Damn it! You’ve just become the man!

Now you’ve arrived at the party. You have to double check the address because it’s not quite in the Hollywood Hills. Still, it’s close enough to call it Hollywood HillsAdjacent, but a small Red Flag goes up in your mind… You drive up the driveway and notice there’s no Valet – Red Flag # 2. You park and walk to the house – uninterrupted! No swarming cluster of Paparazzi fighting for a clear view of the exiting guests. Red Flag # 3. You enter the house, the music is SLAMMING, but there’s no D.J. Red Flag #4.

You see a guy who looks like the Supervisor of Best Buy’s Geek Squad talking with a Paris Hilton wannabe – YOU TURN AND RUN! You hop in your Mustang and decide to drive to the Palms in Vegas for a shot of Ed Hardy Vodka and... redemption!

Honestly, if you go to a party and you have one Red Flag, chances are you’re not going to find any Ed Hardy Vodka there. Owners Ron Tenenbaum and Robert Konieczny are more concerned with “placement” than “volume.” In Ron’s own words, “We’re not looking to mass market Ed Hardy Vodka. We don’t want to be in every venue. You won’t find us at Costco or Sam’s Club. Ed hardy is a lifestyle clothing company, and Ed Hardy Vodka is a lifestyle brand. We’re not going to do every party that we’re asked to do, or be a part of every social event we’re invited to. We only go places where the environment corresponds with our brand.”

And what exactly constitutes the Ed Har-

dy Vodka kind of environment? High-end, baby. All the way. You can’t fake cool.

You either are or you’re not. But luckily there are signposts that can lead you to the promised land of Ed Hardy Vodka. If you’re living here in L.A., The Sky bar at The Mondrian Hotel is a good place to start.

The Ed Hardy brand was brought to fruition by the “trendsetters.” The “socialites.” People who trust their own opinion of things, regardless of what others say or do. Now the Ed Hardy name is everywhere, but Ed Hardy Vodka is creating an old-school buzz about its taste. A select few establishments are introducing a whole new circle of celebrities to the latest Ed Hardy incarnation: Vodka.

Before choosing the perfect Vodka to bear the Ed Hardy name, Ron Tenenbaum and Robert Konieczny travelled the world visiting different distilleries and vodka manufacturers. They finally settled on a company out of France. Ron Tenenbaum explains the vodka process: “By definition vodka is supposed to be colorless, odorless and tasteless, but I challenge you to find any vodka that really fits all of that – Ed Hardy Vodka is as close as you’re ever going to find. But in the vodka market there are grades of superiority, and the highest are the Ultra Premium Brands, which is what we are. That means that the vodka has been distilled and filtered at least five times, and that’s what you’ll get with Ed Hardy Vodka. By distilling our vodka and filtering it five times, we remove all the impurities. The impurities are the things that give you headaches and hangovers, so we eliminate all of that from the very beginning.

At that point what separates us from other Ultra Premium Brand vodkas is the water we use to cut the alcohol with. The manufacturers of our vodka are French, so the water we use comes from the French Alps, so the water itself is filtered by running over the French limestones.

It’s delicious, and the taste of that water permeates through to our vodka, giving Ed hardy Vodka a very smooth taste.”

And Ron and Robert didn’t stop there – even the Ed Hardy Vodka bottles have become collectibles. Robert explained, “Ed Hardy Vodka is a new vodka, but Ed Hardy is not a new name. It already has customer awareness and product awareness. It’s synonymous with a certain

quality. A certain lifestyle. So, the bottle we used for the vodka in itself had to be a unique representation of Ed Hardy. We wanted to create a bottle that you could see from a mile away and still recognize it as being part of the Ed Hardy family.

The bottles are hand made by skillful glass makers, who bring to life the unique designs and concepts of the bottle. It’s a very complicated process of decorating the bottle. There are two stages of firing the glass which is why the art on the bottle has such vibrant colors and is indestructible.”

In addition to designing the bottles and supervising all the production himself, Robert also designs their jewelry! So passionate is Robert about Ed Hardy Vodka that he took care in making sure I knew they have 5 more flavors coming out, and every flavor will have its own distinctive bottle design… As a result of the time he took creating the bottles, people are now selling empty Ed hardy Vodka bottles on E-Bay from $25 to $30. Robert’s reaction to this phenomenon: “This was definitely the kind of public response we wanted for our product.”

Now there’s a new spin on recycling – creating merchandise that people just don’t want to throw away! I would expect no less from the Ed Hardy Universe…

If you live in California, Nevada, Massachusetts, Rhode Island or Florida, consider yourself very lucky, because Ed Hardy Vodka is being sold as you read this at some of the coolest spots in your State. Your mission – and I know you’ll accept it – is to find out where it’s being sold!

For anyone who knows Ron Tenenbaum, the success he and his partner Robert Konieczny have had with Ed Hardy Vodka is not surprising… After college Ron worked with his father in his family’s jewelry business. It wasn’t long before Ron created a unique niche for himself in the jewelry world by creating custom designed masterpieces for Hip Hop artists like Nas, L.L. Cool J., Jay-Z, and many others. If you’re a fan of watching Hip Hop videos you’ve probably seen a lot of Ron’s family’s work on screen. You name the artist, odds are Ron created custom jewelry for them.

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Ron worked in the jewelry business for 20 years, literally redefining the genre with his exceptional business aptitude. It was inevitable that someone as astute as Ron would sense a business opportunity on the horizon.

He noticed more and more Hip Hop artists venturing into the world of alcohol, and doing well. As usual, Ron works in “themes,” and alcohol seemed a natural extension of the Hip Hop attitude and lifestyle.

At the time, Ron himself wore Ed Hardy clothes, and mind you, this was before the big Ed hardy boom. Having one foot already in the celebrity world, he opened up his playing field to include all celebrities and merged his fashion sensibilities into a broader spectrum of high-end lifestyles. It few meetings later – one with creative genius and Ed Hardy mastermind Christian Audigier – and Ron and Robert found themselves in the Ed Hardy Universe as creators of Ed Hardy Vodka.

Surely the task Ron and Robert undertook in choosing the right vodka had to be one of the more fun “business trips” they’ve taken in their lives, and their sense of excitement and joy shines through into their product.

It isn’t an easy thing to infuse a product with an attitude. With a lifestyle. But that’s exactly what Ron and Robert have done. One gets the sense that merely tasting their vodka can transport you into a different social class. You feel as if you belong to an exclusive club. You’re part of the “it” crowd. Whether or not you can actually make that quantum leap to the “cool” side is up to you, but you can’t say you weren’t given the fuel…

“Eventually,” Ron tells me, “Our vision is to be seen all over the world.” Ironically, Ed Hardy Vodka can be seen all over the world now, because not only are people selling empty Ed hardy Vodka bottles on E-Bay, they’re also selling FULL BOTTLES! So, to the geeky teenager living on the outskirts of some small town halfway around the globe, when you turn 18 you can buy your bottle of Ed Hardy Vodka online and officially become the coolest guy on the farm!

To contact either Ron Tenenbaum and Robert Konieczny, please e-mail HYPERLINK

“mailto:ron@edhardyvodka.com”

ron@edhardyvodka.com

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"The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" is a fabulous movie. It's quite the ride through the life of this alluring old man. "Benjamin Button" is certainly one of the better movies of the year and definitely a nice feather in the cap for Brad Pitt.

Rourke gives the performance of his life.

Tough, clueless and more self-aware than he lets on, Randy is excruciatingly sad. When he describes himself as "an old, broken-down piece of meat," your heart aches for him.

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Penn depicts Milk as a man defined by a charming persistence. He had a way with words and a love of the spotlight and an infinite sense of inclusiveness. He was, in short, a jumble of contradictions, all of which Penn captures gracefully and effortlessly - there's nothing mannerly about his performance, just a deeply engaging immersion.

Jenkins, the 60-year-old star of The Visitor (and a former acting mainstay at Trinity Rep in Providence, where he also briefly served as artistic director), has for years been one of Hollywood’s go-to supporting actors. Here, Jenkins gets a much deserved shot at leading man, and he delivers a tender, funny, heartbreaking and thoroughly winning performance in the year’s first genuine must-see film.

We love to s a spectat ee famous weas els or and corre sport that simult humanized; it's aneously cts our w c orst susp life titan icions ab onfirms laid low out a rea .Langella hard to l's resist, ev en if so interpretation is ignore t m he histo rical rec e of the choice Nixon to s o rd. When ld Frost a bout his t h knife in, e r e al enemies for sticking t if to defu example, he did h e so with a se the vio smile, as lence of his descr iption.

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Kate Winslet, THE READER Kate Winslet’s performance in The Reader that brings an effective solemnity and emotion to the film. Winslet has shown in her career the ability to play various parts, and this film also demonstrates her apparent grace at performing these separate characters. She even allows herself to age considerably in this film (a makeup process that took nearly seven hours).

Melissa Leo , FROZEN RIVER Richard Schickel of Time writes, "There's nothing overtly heroic about her as she plods forward under her burden of her small-scale dreams. She's not cynical, but she's not expecting much, either. She's just knowing and accepting of what fate, good or bad, but never transformative, throws at her. You can see it in her eyes, in her wiry body's alertness to both danger and opportunity. The reserve in Leo's performance, the way it earns our sympathy without asking for it, is screen acting of the highest order."

Angelina Jolie, CHANGELING

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Angelina Jolie has not been nominated for an Academy Award since she won best supporting actress of 1999 for "Girl, Interrupted." Just like in that film, she spends a good part of her screen time in "Changeling" locked up in the loony bin.

Add to that the fact she is playing a reallife woman -- four of the last five bestactress winners and seven of the last 10 did just that -- and those good reviews cited above and Jolie remains a viable contender this year.

Anne Hathaway, RACHEL GETTING MARRIED Anne Hathaway's performance as Kym is touching and pitiful, though in truth, every performance in this film is top-notch. This is as much a testament to director Jonathan Demme as it is to the actors. It makes you cringe, even as (or because) you find some of these arguments or judgments familiar.

Meryl Streep, DOUBT Meryl Streep, wrapped in a voluminous habit and a Sisters of Charity bonnet, presents a woman of bedrock conviction (she believes comfortably that "Frosty the Snowman" should be "banned from the airwaves"), wit and fervor. She rolls her eyes at the students' inept carol singing, deplores those who take the easy way out and never entertains doubt — until a devastating late scene. You feel you know this nun and are drawn to her, despite her prickliness; Streep lets us see hints of a different woman, carefully buried.

ACTOR, LEADING Richard Jenkins in “The Visitor” Frank Langella in “Frost/Nixon” Sean Penn in “Milk” Brad Pitt in “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” Mickey Rourke in “The Wrestler”

ACTOR, SUPPORTING Josh Brolin in “Milk” Robert Downey Jr. in “Tropic Thunder” Philip Seymour Hoffman in “Doubt” Heath Ledger in “The Dark Knight” Michael Shannon in “Revolutionary Road”

DIRECTING “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” “Frost/Nixon” “Milk” “The Reader” “Slumdog Millionaire”

DOCUMENTARY FEATURE “The Betrayal (Nerakhoon)” “Encounters at the End of the World” “The Garden” “Man on Wire” “Trouble the Water”

DOCUMENTARY SHORT ACTRESS, LEADING Anne Hathaway in “Rachel Getting Married” Angelina Jolie in “Changeling” Melissa Leo in “Frozen River” Meryl Streep in “Doubt” Kate Winslet in “The Reader”

ACTRESS, SUPPORTING Amy Adams in “Doubt” Penélope Cruz in “Vicky Cristina Barcelona” Viola Davis in “Doubt” Taraji P. Henson in “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” Marisa Tomei in “The Wrestler”

ANIMATED FEATURE “Bolt” “Kung-Fu Panda” “WALL-E”

ART DIRECTION “Changeling” “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” “The Dark Knight” “The Duchess” “Revolutionary Road”

CINEMATOGRAPHY “Changeling” “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” “The Dark Knight” “The Reader” “Slumdog Millionaire”

COSTUME DESIGN “Australia” “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” “The Duchess” “Milk” “Revolutionary Road”

“The Conscience of Nhem En” “The Final Inch” “Smile Pinki” “The Witness - From the Balcony of Room 306”

FILM EDITING “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” “The Dark Knight” “Frost/Nixon” “Milk” “Slumdog Millionaire”

FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILM “The Baader Meinhof Complex” “The Class” “Departures” “Revanche” “Waltz with Bashir”

MAKEUP “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” “The Dark Knight” “Hellboy II: The Golden Army”

ORIGINAL SCORE “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” “Defiance” “Milk” “Slumdog Millionaire” “WALL-E”

ORIGINAL SONG “Down to Earth” from “WALL-E” “Jai Ho” from “Slumdog Millionaire” “O Saya” from “Slumdog Millionaire”

BEST PICTURE “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” “Frost/Nixon” “Milk” “The Reader” “Slumdog Millionaire”

SHORT FILM, ANIMATED “La Maison en Petits Cubes” “Lavatory - Lovestory” “Oktapodi” “Presto” “This Way Up”

SHORT FILM, LIVE ACTION “Auf der Strecke (On the Line)” “Manon on the Asphalt” “New Boy” “The Pig” “Spielzeugland (Toyland)”

SOUND EDITING “The Dark Knight” “Iron Man” “Slumdog Millionaire” “WALL-E” “Wanted”

SOUND MIXING “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” “The Dark Knight” “Slumdog Millionaire” “WALL-E” “Wanted”

VISUAL EFFECTS “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” “The Dark Knight” “Iron Man”

SCREENPLAY, ADAPTED “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” “Doubt” “Frost/Nixon” “The Reader” “Slumdog Millionaire”

SCREENPLAY, ORIGINAL “Frozen River” “Happy-Go-Lucky” “In Bruges” “Milk” “WALL-E”

Scene in LA

By Niki Shadrow

Reese Witherspoon

People’s Choice Awards Shrine Auditorium Splash News

Simon Cowe ll, Kara DioGuardi, P aula Abdul, Randy Ja ckson

American Id ol Auditions Los Angeles , CA Splash New s

Carrie Underwood

Peoples Choice Awards Shrine Auditorium Splash News

Deborah Anderson Paperthin coffee table book launch.

Minotti in Beverly Hills Matt Baron

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Mick y 2 Dud Flores, Bri a e Arclig s & A Dre n Drolet, N am Pr ic Na ht Th em c&J ea Glenn ordan Franc ter, Hollyw iere Euban is/944 ood ks

Eva Mendes

The Art of Elysium charity event Red carpet arrivals Splash News

Kevin Pa Pacific rry E in dow lectric Lofts ntown, Los An geles

Candice Held Xin presents Candice Held Launch Party Xin Boutique Jordana Magin

Katy Perry

Performing “I Kissed A Girl�

Hollywood Splash News

Amanda By

ne

s VH1 Critics choice awards Santa Monic a Civic Auditorium Splash New s

SUNDANCE 2009

By: Felicia Kamriani

t seems impossible that the Sundance Film Festival, already boasting the reputation as the most significant birthplace of independent film, could blossom with even greater preeminence in the world of filmmaking… and yet, indeed it has. While pre-festival rumors swirled of economic downswings impacting attendance, filmmakers, and distributors, to quite the contrary, the 25th year of Sundance actually gained momentum in new A-List ways. With the presence of: giants Jim Carey, Mariah Carey and Sting, cutting edge film, signature events, elite networking lounges, culinary clubs and guest-list only parties, it appeared as if Sundance has risen above all, even itself, to secure a place as the cream of the Hollywood crop.

dressing the filled-to capacity Eccles Theater with, “This is the happiest day in America!”

The crowd erupted with roaring applause. He was referring, of course, to Inauguration Day, yet his film screening could provoke similar remarks. This phenomenal trifecta of screenplay, directing and acting excellence proved to have a monumental impact on every viewer. A stunning reminder of strength from within- allowing the mind and heart to escape to Eden, creating hope, love and safety even during the most inconceivable situations. A tearful standing ovation greeted Daniels and cast as they took stage for a much deserved post screening Q & A. Kudos to Mo’Nique, Gabby Sidibe, Paula Patton, Lenny Kravitz, Sherri Shepherd, and Mariah Carey.

In keeping with Robert Redford’s environmental concerns, Sundance has always prioritized preserving the environment and the sanctity of Park City. In this vein, Sundance 2009 demonstrated a new commitment to this endeavor.

FilterForGood, a Brita and Nalgene campaign, provided attendees with Naglene reusable lime-green bottles and Brita Hydration System stations. This gallant team effort prevented over 50,000 bottles from being used at the festival! Outstanding! Bravo! Encore! And for those rebels who did sneak a regular water bottle, Sundance organizers provided muchos accessible recycling bins throughout its venues.

We Live in Public, recipient of the Grand Jury Prize for U.S. Documentary, took a probing look into the downward spiral of Internet pioneer Josh Harris. Documentarian, Ondi Timoner followed Harris’s life from his creation of Pseudo. com, the Internet television network, to Quiet, his cultish, surveillanced, underground, podladen, city of mis-fits to 24/7 streaming of his own life (and his girlfriend’s) to sabbatical on an apple farm to come-back attempt to Ethiopian retreat. Timoner, dedicated the honor to Harris, saying “He’s the first subject I’ve ever had that said, I don’t care how you portray me as long as you make a great film.”

The dizzying effect of Sundance is not just due to the altitude. The whirlwind occurs when cutting-edge indie film mixes with an assortment of sub-fests including , but not limited to, Swagdance, Partydance, and Loungedance.

The emerging Grubdance and Musicdance are jockying for mainstream positions and doing quite a nice job of it.

FILM EXTRAORDINAIRE

Its no surprise that Push: Based on a Novel by Sapphire, won the Grand Jury Prize for the dramatic competition AND the audience award.

Director, Lee Daniels spoke pre-screening, ad-

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While more conventional in approach than other Sundance films, The Greatest broached the difficult subject of parents grieving over the loss of their teenage son in an automobile accident. Illuminated by powerful and heartfelt performances from Pierce Brosnan, as a husband repressing his pain and Susan Sarandon, as an angry wife searching to cast blame, The Greatest built beautifully but fell short with a simplistic resolution in the final act. Despite a weak finish, this film showed great emotion and acting skill by all players.

Directed and written by comedian “Bobcat” Goldthwait and starring Robin Williams, the dark comedy, The World’s Greatest Dad surprises at every turn. The film starts in one direction and takes an unexpected detour, leav-

ing the audience a befuddled before revealing the humorous, gutsy and surprisingly funny view of teen suicide, the media, and the cult of celebrity worship that permeates American society. Williams shines as a frustrated high school poetry teacher, suddenly caught in the spotlight. This film represents the kind of work one hopes to see at Sundance. Risky, unpredictable and unique.

In Cold Souls, Paul Giamatti plays Paul Giamatti, a frustrated actor puts his soul into cold storage in order to improve his performance in a Broadway play. Add to the mix a beautiful Russian woman, a ring of illegal “soul traffikers,” exotic locations in St. Petersburg and out pops a surrealist comedy reminiscent of “Being John Malkovich.” While a bit uneven in tone, the film entertains and postures profound inquiries on the nature of life, technological trappings, lasting happiness and why Paul Giamatti’s soul happens to look like a chickpea.

GRUB

Chefdance For the 3rd year in a row, Chefdance has wowed Sundancers with a 5-night line up of culinary hits. Celebrity natural food chef, Bethenny Frankel (Martha Stewart’s The Apprentice) co-hosted this VIP-exclusive sit down dinner at posh Onassis Restaurant (tucked under infamous Harry O’s) which features a different chef, menu and guest list each night. To kick of the festival, Chef Richard Sandoval of Mexx Restaurant in Chicago, created a stunning and imaginative melding of traditional Mexican cuisine with gourmet flair. Guacamole, Ceviche, Tamales and Pork- que rico!

Another memorable evening starred Chef Kerry Simon a.k.a. The Rock ‘n’ Roll Chef, and his Sous Chef, Jamaal Taherzadeh of Simon Los Angeles and at Simon Palms Place, Las Vegas.

Enjoying the fare was Pierce Brosnan, Cuba Gooding Jr., Andie McDowell and the members of the band Camp Freddie.

MySpace Café

Conveniently nestled in the Sundance Lift at the bottom of Main Street, MySpace Café was back in action. This breakfast/lunch venue was a magnet for celebs looking for a bite, a latplace to unwind, or a laptop to check the lat inest. The perfect networking hub, MySpace in cluded indoor/outdoor seating, a counter bar, and a sunny terrace for interviews. To die for Mac n’ Cheese and Tuna Melts.

Regulars: Woody Harrelson, Uma Thurman, Minnie Driver, Ben Affleck, Ashton Kutcher, Ashley Judd, Kieran Culkin, Michelle Trachtenberg, Mark Harmon, Sam Rockwell, Paris and Nicky Hilton.

way to start off a day of gift lounges… er, movie watching? For the night-owls, T-Mobile turned into a hoppin’ club with the music from DJ Momjeans (aka Danny Masterson). Noshers: The cast of “Spring Breakdown,” (including Amy Poehler, Parker Posey, Rachel Dratch and Amber Tamblyn) and friends (including John Krasinski, Emily Blunt, KayCee Stroh and Ben Higginson) frolicked at the T-Mobile G1 Diner for a cast dinner in their honor. Also eating: Ashton Kutcher, Nick Cannon, Jay Lyon, Brittany Snow and Karolina Kurkova.

T-Mobile G1 Diner Tucked into the YARD, The T-Mobile G1 Diner invited VIPs for breakfast and lunch, networking or just warming up with an ultra rich, extra hot cocoa (guests easily texted drink orders from the handy T-Mobile PDAs at each table.) Complete with flat screens (which came in handy for viewing Obama’s Inauguration) laptops, free Wi-Fi and A-List celebrities, what better

The YARD The Village at the Yard, transformed a lumberyard space into a VIP Villa with T-Mobile G1 Diner, Fred Segal Fun boutique, Living Proof No Frizz Salon Suite, InStyle Magazine Portrait Studio, Health Bar by Drugstore.com/Beauty. com, Spongebob Lounge, Gatorade “G” Gym, outdoor Heineken Grill and sledding!

Goodies: Fred Segal Fun showcased fabulous

LOUNGES

lines including, the socially conscious Black Boy collection, which salutes all the people who have ever empowered themselves to overcome obstacles and make a difference; The George, Gina & Lucy oversized bags are already selling like hot-cakes in Europe, so its no wonder these canvas, nylon, silk and leather purses are causing a frenzy in Hollywood; Parish men’s line featured it’s cool swanky shirts and classy embellished outerwear; Hurley gifted an array of comfy, hats, tees and pea coats; Monarchy’s patched thermals and scarves were a staple in Park City; K-Swiss sportswear came in handy for a spin in the “G” Gym’; Nightcap designs by Carisa Rene featured unique, artistic and distinctive day-to-evening wear; Undun Denim offered organic skinny jeans in an array of washes; The Original Retro Brand’s assortment of collegiate tees made choosing tricky; Lisa Freede eclectic jewelry line of must-haves and signature huggie earrings were a favorite of Mariah Carey. The Spongebob Lounge had, of course, Spongebob photo ops along with all kinds of games, socks, cashmere scarves, iPod docs

favorite of late night festival revelers. Tempting most visitors- Roberto Coin’s diamond dripping jewelry along with a classy collection of Rolex timepiece bling. Charitable types: Sting, Susan Sarandon, Amy Poehler, Billy Bob Thornton, Chris Rock, Pierce Bronson , Patton Oswalt, Ashton Kutcher, Gael Garcia Bernal, Denise Richardson, Michael Cera, Pierce Brosnan, Ashley Judd, Billy Bob Thornton, Hugh Dancy, Tea Leoni, Emmy Rossum, Liam Neeson, Jill Hennesey and Kyle MacLachlan.

and thermoses. My favorite? Swarovski crystaled Sponge Bob Hurley Tee! “G” Gym: New to the YARD this year, Gatorade’s “G” Gym, complete with, yoga classes, cardio and weight machines, rock climbing wall, locker facilities, Gatorade Beverage Bar and training from celebrity fit masters, Gunnar Peterson and Kathy Kaehler. Exercisers: Jon Alston, Nick Cannon, Christina Milian, Gaius Charles, Dominic Monaghan, Tom Arnold, Snowboarder Ellery Hollingsworth and Rory Culkin all sweated their stuff. Gatorade’s, Cycle for a G fundraiser drew conscious celebs who exercised on a stationary bike for $1000 donation to a charity of their choice. Anne Heche choose St. Jude’s; Emma Roberts gave to Children’s Cancer Research Fund, Lisa Kudrow donated to PS Arts, Brittany Snow supported Pediatric Cancer Foundation of Tampa.

Film Lounge Media Center The Film Lounge Media Center at the O.C. Tanner was host to both the Wire Image and Getty Images Sundance Portrait Studios, along with the AMC Television interview suite. Celebrating its 60th anniversary, Puma celebrated by raising awareness of the shoe charity, Soles4Souls (www.soles4souls.org). Auction proceeds from a celebrity signed gigantic Puma Clyde shoe, will benefit people in need of shoes both here in the US and abroad. Mean Girls star, Daniel Franzese, proved to be charitably inspired, as he gave the shoes off his feet to Sole4Souls!

The lounge included a healthy beverage bar featuring physician inspired Function Drinks.

Packed with antioxidants and all natural ingredients, Function Drink Urban Detox was a

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Sephora Beauty Lounge The Sephora hub catered to all of a film-lover’s vital needs: clothing, drink, nourishment, photo ops, accessories, beauty products and makeup! While in the café sipping hot chocolate courtesy of Divine, or any number of other premier beverages (Fiji Water, Michael Collins Irish Whisky, Tommy Bahama Rum, Zipang Sparkling Sake, Amstel Light) guests could amuse themselves with the FOTO Cabina instant photo booth before entering the den of swag.

Goodies: Sephora makeup artists performed festival transformations, and to take home: Eye Studio Kits for Natural, Smokey and Cat eyes and a Primp Bag chock full of Sephora goodies (lash plumper mascara, dental kit, multi-palate eye color, body lotion, nectar shine lip gloss, and stimulating lavender cuticle oil.) Other treats were: Fresh Soy Face Cleanser, Soy Face Cream, Sugar Lip Treament and Givenchy Phenomen’eyes, high precision panoramic mascara. Nintendo was on hand to bling out your DS with Swarovski crystals and Divine Chocolates offered a delish array of treats ranging from bite size to giant bars. The Owl’s Lab fashion collection comprised: Boy Meets Girl, Bryna Nicole, Carlos Falchi, Delphine, Izzy Gold, Jane August, Kelly Bensimon, Kep, Leigh & Luca, Ostrera, PCN, Siwy, Vigoss & Joie! Axe created a zen lounge complete with bamboo and chaise chairs. The shower backdrop housed cushy men’s bathrobes and full size freebies included every kind of shower gel and body spray imaginable, shampoo, Axe detailer (scrubby puff termed “shower tool”) and a canvas zip tote bag. Most certainly all of these products came in handy before and after the late night Axe Fix Club, where DJ AM rocked the night away.Visitors: Sarah Larson, Paris and Nicky Hilton, Aubrey

O’Day, Zoe Kravitz, Frankie Faison, Michelle Trachtenberg, Ryan Cabrera, Model Devon Aoki, DJ Steve Aoki, DJ AM, Virginia Madsen, Kevin Sorbo, Sonia Rockwell, Mekhi Phifer, Danielle Fishel, Jane Lynch, Casey Johnson, Courtenay Semel, Chloe Moretz, High Dancy, Kim Porter, Tom Higgenson, Louisa Krause, Bridget Branna, Dasha Usmanoba, and Tara Santana.

St. Ives Sensory Spa This zen retreat featured cushy couches, crackling fireplaces, aromatherapy scents, Mac laptops, countless massage rooms, a café (with Quaker True Delights, Soyjoy Energy Bars, Zoneperfect Bars, Flat Earth Veggie Chips, Honest Tea, Fiji Water) and a natureinspired art exhibition by artist Laurel True.

VIP guests chose from an assortment of facials, massages, reflexology treatments, and mani/pedis- all featuring the exquisite line of St. Ives products. Celebrity esthetician Jillian Wright, owner of New York City’s Glow Skin Spa, coached celebs on the best way to pamper skin.

Goodies: Whether going in to warm up or chill out, St. Ives offered a bagful of necessities (Apricot Scrub, Olive Scrub, Mineral Therapy Body Polish, Micro dermabrasion) to refresh skin, soothe the senses and repeat the spa experience!

Spa-goers: Tom Arnold, Denise Richards, Elijah Wood, Emmy Rossum, Brittany Snow, Zoe Kravitz, Ryan Cabrera, Hugh Dancy, Dave Annable (Brothers and Sisters), Odette Yustman (The Unborn), Anne Heche and James Tupper, Olivia Thirlby, John Quinones (20/20), Alexie Gilmore (New Amsterdam), Matt Servitto (One Life To Live), Linda Hogan and Charley Hill, Bethenny Frankel (The Real Housewives of New York City), and Jordan Belfi (Entourage).

Rock Band Lounge NYC Hotspot Marquee came to Sundace with one goal—to rock. And what better way than with Rock Band. Celebs galore were clamoring to experience the revolutionary music gaming system, Rock Band, at aptly named, Rock Band Lounge. While most lounges provided hoppin’ DJ inspired entertainment, Rock Band, with its ever expanding music library, guitar, drums and microphone collection, and multiplatform software, provided visitors with live

music by Sundance rock star hopefuls. Bands jammed all day, into the night and back into day! Goodies: KangaROOS, famous for their hidden pockets, gifted both retro and modern sneakers; Burt’s Bee’s celebrated its 25 year by naturally soothing chapped lips and skin; Ecoya candles infused the lounge with fragrances of passion; Lia Sophia jewelry adorned many a lobe; designer Tiffany Saidnia debuted her collection of loungewear, Tt Mates, ideal for layering under ski sweaters; designer Omar Vega gifted her No Love Lost edgy street wear brand tees; Muscle Milk packed the beverage bar with protein-enhanced powders, shakes -these deliciously nutrient options gave Sundance guests a healthy boost; And with Sports Club LA gifting 3 month guest passes to their exclusive health clubs, guests will enjoy Muscle Milk again as the products are featured in the Sports Club LA Cafés. Groupies: Efren Ramirez (Napoleon Dynamite), David Blue (Ugly Betty) Mo’nique (Push), Recording Artist Robin Thicke, funnyman Tom Arnold, , Dominic Monaghan (Lost, Lord of the Rings), Adam Duritz (lead singer Counting Crows), poker player Annie Duke, Barry Zito (pitcher for the San Francisco Giants), Jon Alston (linebacker, Oakland Raiders), actor Matthew Lillard, music legend, Sting, and cute couple Mariah Carey and Nick Cannon, who DJ’d until wee hours of the morning!

Hollywood Life House For the 5th year, Hollywood Life House claimed its signature location at the bottom of Main Street and boasted an impressive schedule of events including gifting suite, cast interviews, premiere parties, cocktail receptions, private dinners, performances, and photo-sessions in the WireImage Portrait Studio (posted daily on Hollywoodlife.net and featured in Hollywood Life magazine). The Mail.com internet café made lounging, networking, and recharging easy. (Favorites were: Evolution of Smooth lip balm spheres, the Sambazon Açai sorbet and fondues by Chef Jake Linzinmeir!) By day, A-list guests indulged in: the Conair studio for makeup applications, blowouts and Rusk hair care products; spray tan applications and products by Fake Bake; jewelry, scarves, handbags and dresses by Black House White Market; popcorn and snacks courtesy of AMC; Glam Noir accessories; Whiting and Davis handbags; and, best of all the exclusive-toSundance Snowtopia boots from Tokidoki for

Onitsuka Tiger. By night, premier parties jumped along with the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino “Smashtime” parties and the New York Eldridge after-hours shindigs. Lifers: Andie MacDowell, Kristen Stewart, Michelle Trachtenberg, Kevin Bacon, Nick Cannon, Paris Hilton, Denise Richards, Dave Annable, Odette Yustman, Emily Van De Camp, Benjamin Bratt, Talisa Soto Bratt, Peter Gallagher, Kyle Maclachlan, James Wood, Hugh Dancy, Eliza Dushku, Mo’Nique, Zooey Deschanel, Aubrey O’Day, Dominic Monahan, Emma Roberts, Jill Hennessy, Parker Posey, Slash, Mark Harmon, Sarah Larson, Michael Cera, Christina Milian, The Doors, Jeff Daniels, Gael Garcia Bernal, KayCee Stroh, Holly Montag, Ryan Cabrera, Chris Kattan, Jay Lyon, Matthew Lillard, Jamie Kennedy, Joe Francis, Ron Jeremy, Dierdre Hall, Kevin Sorbo, Paula Patton, Justin Kirk, Zach Gilford, Brent Bolthouse, Ralph Macchio, Jason Ritter…

House of Hype Amongst all of the insider zones, the Vespa clad, Island Def Jam House of Hype proved to be the inner sanctum. By day the multilevel venue housed a swank hospitality lounge, by night it hosted premiere parties before transforming into the after hours Ultra Lounge (10pm-3am) with performances by Hoobastank, Razorlight, Jon McLaughlin, Parachute, and DJ TimBuck2.

The HoH beverage bars included free flowing: Jell-o, Snapple, Coffee Bean, Fiji Water, Red Bull, Stella Artois, Bluecoat Gin, Vieux Carré Absinthe, and Rémy Martin. Goodies: The Nivea Lounge soothed sore feet, weary muscles and chapped skin. Relief also provided by La Prairie and Le Metier de Beaute.

Nintendo Wii dominated the lower level with gaming stations and addicted gamers. Guests left with Wii to-go coffee mugs, Skullcandy headsets, Contrabrand hats and tees, Livvs crochet boots, Wendy Mink Jewelry, Life & Style Magazines, Guitar pick jewelry by Nicolina Royale, and Best Friends Animal Society awareness. Loungers: Anne Heche, Christie Brinkley, Wesley Snipes, Three 6 Mafia, Devon & Steve Aoki, Monique, Jeremy Jackson, Singers Robin Thicke and Aubrey O’Day, Anne Heche and James Tupper. HoH extras: exclusive Sunday brunch by Chef Michael Leclerc and the Philadelhpia Industry Lounge game day

viewing party. A masseuse detangled knots in the Nivea Lounge, waitresses passed cigars Coffee Bean barista’s served up java, Fiji water flowed, and the celebrity favorite, Kitchen 24 catered a decadent brunch. Philly director Lee Daniels (Push) and Mariah Carey, made an much welcomed appearance at Philly’s Industry Lounge.

Speaking of football…

Reggie Bush hosted the ESPN, DirectTV and Harry O’s sponsored Championship Sunday viewing party. Celebs, sports fans and athletes hobnobbed while watching both the Eagles/Cardinals and Steelers/Ravens games on flat and giant screens. Catered nibbles included salads in Chinese to-go boxes, mashed potatoes, every kind of meat imaginable, and of course, free flowing Stella Artois. Fans: Ian Ziering, John Schneider, Tommy Davidson, Efren Ramirez, Paris Hilton, Robert Townsend, Kim Kardashian, Terrell Owens, and Jon Alston.

Efren Ramirez stole the Ubiquitous Award right out from underneath Ian Ziering, as he basically showed up with his twin brother, Carlos, at virtually every VIP event!

PARTIES

While each and every film premiering at Sundance has an accompanying party, there were extra sets of parties that couldn’t be missed!

Opening Night Gala Every year Sundance kicks off the festival with an opening night celebration at the Legacy Lodge. This bi-level chalet provides enough rooms to eat, drink, pose for photos (souvenir snapshots courtesy of HP) dance, mingle and sit by the fire. In attendance were filmmakers, film enthusiasts, film buffs and all people film infused. Sam Pollard, editor of the upcoming documentary on Barack Obama and Sundance documentary jury member, networked among the energize crowds. Absinthe, the featured liquor, was blended into a cranberry concoction that hit the spot… along with Spotted Dog Creamery’s mini ice cream cones, in assorted flavors including Baileys.

“7 Fresh Faces in Film” 7 For All Mankind and Gen Art honored a new generation of talent at the Hollywood Life House. Each one of the seven rising stars

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had at least one film premiering at this year’s festival: Zach Gilford (Dare, TV - Friday Night Lights), Tania Raymonde (The Immaculate Conception of Little Dizzle, TV - Lost), Pell James (Shrink, Zodiac), Louisa Krause (Toe to Toe, The Babysitters), Charlyne Yi (Paper Heart, Knocked Up, TV - 30 Rock), Jess Weixler (Peter and Vandy) and Mark Duplass (Humpday, The Puffy Chair, co-wrote/co-directed Baghead). Poised to impact Hollywood, these honorees were presented by indie film vet, Virginia Madsen.

“It’s Better in the Dark” The Gen Art and Kenneth Cole Black party, saluting Indie film champions, caused such a stir, that lines of people braved frigid temps with the hope of entering (or peeking in) Greenhouse at The Sky Lodge. The red carpet was essentially a Hollywood reunion with VIPs including, Mariah Carey, Denise Richards, Andi McDowell, Chef Kerry Simon, Sous Chef Jamaal Taherzadeh, Peter Gallagher, Olivia Thirlby, Virginia Madsen, Kyra Sedgwick, Carlos and Efren Ramirez, Eliza Dushku, John Quinones, Kevin Sorbo, Michael Cera, and Jeff Daniels. Lucky party goers enjoyed Nick Cannon as guest DJ. Kenneth Cole, himself, mingled with guests and press seeing as his Kenneth Cole Fragrance made a $10,000 donation to the Sundance Institute on behalf of the evening’s honorees - which included Kevin Bacon (Taking Chance), Jeff Daniels (Arlen Faber), Kevin Corrigan (Big Fan), and Alan Cumming (Dare). This event capped Gen Art’s 15th Anniversary celebration of dedicated efforts to supporting independent artists. Guests left with a black(!) canvas bag filled with Kenneth Cole Black fragrances and splashed with the words, ”We support artistic freedom, but draw the line at nude footage.”

Sundance Channel’s, 31 Days of Sundance

This party was a special treat because not only was it held at my personal favorite Park City restaurant, 350 Main, but also since the Master of Ceremonies himself, Robert Redford was mingling and enjoying the deliciously sponsored Stella Artois. With stacks of cheese boards, deli meats, lamp chops and scrumptious cupcakes, this party was feast of plenty.

While last year virtually all parties handed out swag, this year, the Sundance Channel was one of the few honoring the spirited tradi-

tion and gifted Alternative Apparel grey longsleeve organic tees emblazoned with “1.20.09 for a change.”

Variety 10 Directors to Watch In honor of breakthrough directors, Variety honored 10 up-and-comers. Directors Adam Elliot (Max and Mary), Emily Abt (Toe to Toe), Cherien Dabis (Amreeka), Shana Feste (The Greatest), Bohdan Slama (The Country Teacher), Antonio Campos (Afterschool) and Marc Webb (500 Days of Summer) discussed their paths and films at a pre-party panel. The event was in a new location this year- The Shop (a refurbished automotive repair garage) replaced the traditional Deer Valley Lodge venue. To the relief of many, this party honored filmmakers as artists rather than celebrity red carpets; to the disappointment of many, absent was the signature Mac n’ Cheese.

New York Film Commission Those New Yorkers certainly know how to revel.

Housed in a mansion near the Canyons ski resort, the party purely focused on food, film and fun. Black Angus sliders on Hawaiian bread or Tuna tartar on Asian slaw? Both! The DJ rocked the house to well after 3a.m. and everyone left with a goodie bag, which included Waterford crystal!

Tao The Las Vegas hotspot moved into Park City again this year to set the night scene. And the right people found it. Paris, Sting, Ashton Kutcher, Kim Kardashian, Aubrey O’Day, Christina Milian, Kerry Simon, Terrell Owens, Danny Masterson, Woody Harrelson, and Ian Ziering all hobnobbed with friends and enjoyed free flowing Stella Artois.

50 Cent Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson hosted an out of this world dinner party at the VitaminWater mansion in celebration of his Cheetah Vision Films Production company. Terrell Owens, Russell Simmons, Kimberly Kardashian, Paris Hilton, Brittany Flickinger, and Jenny McCarthy partied and danced while 50 Cent performed “It’s Your Birthday” for birthday boy Jim Carrey Kitchen 24 So many parties, so much to eat! Ever wonder where all of those delectable bites come from?

If you were lucky enough to be at the: House of Hype, Push Premiere Party, Dallas Film Commission/AFI Party any of the Hollywood Life House parties (Humpday, Gen Art’s Seven Fresh Faces in Film, I Sell the Dead, Weather Girl, The Vicious Kind, You Might as Well Live It, Finding Bliss, Black Dynamite, We Live in Public, and La Mission) then you enjoyed the catering of celebrity favorite, Kitchen 24.

MUSIC

As music is such an integral part of filmmaking, its prevalence in the Sundance Film Festival is intentional. Musicians, singers and songwriters network, cultivate awareness, provide entertainment and without a doubt, command the attention of directors, producers and industry executives.

Harry O’s hosted crooner Robin Thicke, who opened with his latest single Magic (off his Something Else album) and followed with a medley (Oh Shooter, Teach You A Lesson, Lost Without U) from his hit album, The Evolution of Robin Thicke. (Thicke’s wife, Paula Patton, was also in Park City as she co-starred in Lee Daniels, Push.) Jewish reggae, hip hop star Matisyahu performed afterwards to an audience of Jonny Lee Miller (Endgame), Slash, Paris Hilton, Denise Richards, Miami Dolphins Defensive Back Nate Jones, Dallas Cowboy Terrell Owns, the cast of Spring Break ’83 and many more!

groove that had the audience singing along.

Mann’s much anticipated debut album (Victor Records/Sony) hits shelves this Summer.

Hooray!

The Sundance Music Café offered an eclectic blend of musical genres. Violin virtuoso Lili Haydn opened the night with special guest, Doors drummer John Densmore- on tables- in a spectacular display of musical skill and improvisation. (Haydn had met Densmore on the plane and he agreed to sit in and jam with her. It is precisely these types of encounters that make the Sundance experience so unique.) Singer/songwriter, Stew and band tore the house down with sets from his Tony award winning musical “Passing Strange.”

The night ended with Billy Bob Thorton and the Boxmasters revving up the crowd with their mixture of Texas Swing and Country. Between songs, Billy threw some “words” at movie critics- guess he’s miffed with the reviews he’s been getting lately…

ASCAP Music Café has always been an ideal way to see intimate live musical acts at Sundance. The new tent venue this year made viewing virtually impossible, yet fortunately, the music still sounded fantastic.

Wynonna surprised with a powerful version of Foreigner’s “I Want to Know What Love Is.” (Yes, that’s right, Foreigner!) When she sang of seeing “heartache and pain” she made the words ring true. Damien Rice ensued with an emotional solo set topped by a heartfelt version of “The Blower’s Daughter.” Former opera singer and song writer, Chris Mann, wowed the crowd with a 30-minute soulful pop set including favorites: On a Night Like This, NY Time, In Between, Someone to Love you, The Sound of Silence (Simon and Garfunkel cover) and Learn to Unlove You- an uptempo radio

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY 23

Dexter

By Jenny Werth of Hollywood Weekly written for the Sunset Gower Magazine

ith half his face splattered with blood and the other clean shaven, it was nearly impossible to miss the gruesome billboards advertising a certain Dexter was back to shock us with some new serial killing tendencies as another season emerged.

Once again smiling down at us was the handsome man with some wicked secret that proved this show was going to be more than your average shoot em’ up, song-n-dance cop circus from the first episode. Now, while anxious audiences hold their breath, season four can’t debut fast enough. And we just know there’s going to be a collective exhale strong enough to blow down those very billboards that drew so many of use to Dexter in the first place.

What is it that makes one show a phenomenon while so many others never get beyond a pilot? I hear some of you, rubbing enough of that special Buddha’s belly, right? Well, in Hollywood, you never really do know. And the opinions do vary naturally, but everyone agrees there are some essential threads in the fabric of making fabulous TV- unbelievable story line, gripping plot, talented cast and those who produce the show. Without these true stars, there would simply be no show, no weekly get-togethers over soda and popcorn and nothing to look forward to as the clock ticks slowly towards five. With this in mind, one man in particular merits our attention, Robert L. Lewis. Lewis is the line producer for Dexter and is basically your go-to man to save time and money while shooting various scenes. He takes the script and helps to realize it by figuring out how to juggle different scenes into more time and cost effective venues that will still produce the best quality. Lewis says it’s like being a building contractor. And this Lewis is a very clever man. So, I say believe him. In fact, I say, listen to his story- it’s full of twists and turns and interesting parallels in and of itself.

Upon returning home from college, Robert Lewis was strolling in downtown Inglewood,

24 HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY

NJ, and he happened upon the shooting of Woody Allen’s “Manhattan.” There was a Nazi demonstration being shot and a crowd had gathered behind ropes to watch it being filmed. Just like all human beings, Lewis wanted to be INSIDE those ropes and so he simply slipped under them, got a coffee cup, acted like it was for one of the directors and told the guards he was a personal assistant.

It worked, without a hitch. So he figured, why stop there? Well, he didn’t. In fact, for the next two days he continued the act. He didn’t get a pay check after his little stunt, but, he never got caught either. So started Lewis’ early career in show biz. And isn’t that how it so often is- slipping under ropes, pretending to be someone you’re not, fooling everyone around you and fitting in with the crowd? Indeed.

Lewis realized early on in the game that if you wanted to make it in this crazy industry you had to get out there and “Just do it.” So he did. He moved to New York City and started with a TV company who made movies and commercials and started calling people. He had 85 interviews until someone finally asked him the magical question, “Can you drive a truck?” He said yes and went off to deliver snow. And that was his ‘official beginning.’

But, he started off as a personal assistant and moved up that ladder to producing commercials in one and a half years. He says it was an education just being there. And it must have been because not before long Lewis was out here in Los Angeles making movies! The Hollywood success story we all dream of!

Once again he put himself in the action, only this time he didn’t slide under the ropes.

“When you don’t have a reputation you have to create material,” Lewis says. And create material he did. His first gig was in 1980 shooting a horror film called “Superstition” for which all actors and composers worked free. In fact, he paid $50 for the script, borrowed $10,000 and shot it over a weekend.

With his ten minute promo reel in hand he came out at 8:30am and had a deal by 3:30pm. How? Well, he went straight over to a former well-known company called Carol Co. (responsible for films such as Rambo and True Blood) and they kicked in over $1 million and made his low-budget horror film.

I asked him to see a copy and he insists there

aren’t any. I don’t know if I believe him.

He moved on to shooting many, many other movies such as the CBS TV Movie “Gorilla,” and “A Summer to Remember,” in 1984 staring Tess Harper and Louise Fletcher. Then, fast forward some 20 years later and we find Lewis as line producer of this wildly popular Showtime program Dexter. When asked for advice for aspiring producers, Lewis says “find a new profession.” Okay, well, if you are going to stay put, then here’s what else he recommends, “be tenacious.” He says there’s a lot of heartbreak and disappointment. He says you can’t take things personally. And he also advises to make all your phone calls after 6 p.m. because only then will the executives actually answer as you won’t ever get past the secretary during working hours.

If you are a writer, he says the easiest way to get into the business is to write a great script. He says that will get you to the top.

It’s a good thing Lewis didn’t follow his own advice of finding a new profession, for where would we be without him?

With Lewis on the Dexter team among the other talented crew, we are sure to be graced with many more seasons of this twisted character’s battle between the justice system and where it fails. Indeed Lewis confirms that one of the reasons for Dexter’s popularity is his

Robert L. Lewis

ability to live out a lot of people’s fantasies of “balancing the books.” Of making what most people see as an unjust world just.

Or, as I would say, of taking things into your own hands and seeing they are resolved as you see fit. However you explain it, Dexter is cleaning up the scum of the planet episode by episode, and we love to watch him as much as he loves to clean it up. As Lewis says, the Dexter crew is great at coming up with fresh themes for each season and exploring that season’s concept. I doubt anyone would disagree. Dexter is home based at Sunset Gower Studios where they occupy Sound Stages 16, 15, 8 and film on numerous locations all over the lot. A year ago, Sunset Gower Studios merged with Sunset Bronson Studios (previously Tribune) to form the largest independent studio featuring 23 sound stages and 28 acres. Also instrumental in making Dexter a huge success is how well the cast work with each other. Lewis says in his 30 years of working in this industry this is “the most professional staff I’ve ever worked with all driven by Michael Hall. He brings a strong degree of professionalism and provides an example to the rest of the show.” Something else that keeps Dexter’s fans coming back for more is the complexity of each character.

True, Dexter is the most devious and genius of all the characters, but each character is damaged in some way. And we love that, don’t we? Dexter’s love interest, Rita, carries an ocean of emotional baggage inside her soul. And while not all women would ever dream of wanting to identify with her, it can’t be denied that all too often many do. The result of this real-life-woman-on-the-couch and the fictional woman on TV relationship?

Even more of a guarantee that many people will turn on the tube every week to find out what happens next. Proof is seen in some of Dexter’s awards. Among some of them are two Spike awards, two Golden Satellite and two Saturn awards. But, to me it’s the originality of this show and its influence long after it’s off the air that makes it a winner. All the awards in the world don’t mean a thing if a spark isn’t left on an audience’s memory.

Or, perhaps as Dexter would say, a few drops of dried blood.

Michael C. Hall as Dexter

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY 25

oger Groh has had a long and lustrous career as an actor here in Hollywood, but his aspirations were not always to share in the limelight of Hollywood’s elite. He was a finance major in College and moved on to become Chairman of the Board for a large investment company. He saw a need for people to talk about international markets and eventually this idea blossomed into what we now know as CNBC. In 1986 he decided to take acting classes as a way to sharpen his somewhat natural skills for voice over work and characterization. Little did he know that these skills would eventually take him all over the world playing many different types of people- some good, some bad and some in between!

This man of a thousand faces has worked on the big screen alongside such Superstars as Tom Hanks in the up and coming Prequel to The Davinci Code, “Angels and Demons”, Sean Penn in “MILK”, one of this year‘s Best Picture Nominees & Reese Witherspoon in this Holiday Season’s hit comedy “Four Christmases.” He has over 25 TV credits under his belt for this past year alone acting on such shows as

“House,” “Entourage,” “Dexter,” “My Name is Earl,” “Without a Trace,” and Fox’ new hit show “Lie to Me.” From 1986 to 2008 one might recognize his resonant voice as a commentator on economic and international politics for FNN, CNBC, CBS and Inside Money.

Clearly acting is only one of Roger Groh’s passions.

He is a big family guy; a proud Dad and Husband.

He is environmentally conscious and may have some political aspirations as well.

I sat down with Roger to ask him about his impressive career & latest project with Dir. Ron Howard.

HW: You just finished shooting “Angels and Devils” with Tom Hanks and Ron Howard? How was that experience?

RG: Absolutely amazing! The movie was shot on location in Rome, Englewood and Culver City where the entire Vatican was re-constructed right here in California. Pure movie magic.

HW: How was it working with Tom Hanks?

RG: He really is the best- such a nice guy and a very talented actor. I also loved working with Ron Howard. He is a true visionary!

HW: What is your dream role?

RG: I feel so lucky to get to do this kind of work. I am really thankful for all of the parts I have gotten to play. There is a new Bourne Identity in the works now- If I had to choose one role... That would be it!

HW: Where are some of your favorite places on Earth you have seen in your career?

RG: Well Hawaii is amazing. I was lucky enough to live there for a while... The French Mountains, Hong Kong ALWAYS...

I know it sounds cheesy but truly Home is my favorite place, wherever that may be.

HW: What is your mantra?

RG: Be the best at whatever you do. Do it right. Stick with core principles, be decent, a hard worker, keep your nose clean and you will succeed.

Roger Groh is represented by HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY 26HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY

(323) 965-0555

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY27

LA THEATRE BEAT BY

STEVE ZALL AND SID FISH Don’t let the search for true love distract you from the incredible array of shows opening in the greater Los Angeles area this month including:

“Taking Steps” a comedy where husbands, wives, lovers and strangers end up in the wrong beds

one night. Written by Alan Ayckbourn and directed by Allan Miller, it runs through March 22 at the Odyssey Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets call 310-477-2055 or visit www.odysseytheatre.com.

“Beggars in the House of Plenty”

deals with a family’s individual struggles and their need for the love of each other. Written by John Patrick Shanley and directed by Larry Moss, it runs through March 29 at Theatre/Theater in Los Angeles. For tickets call 800-838-3006 or visit www. brownpapertickets.com.

“Surviving Sex”

covers the misadventures of an accountant exploring the intricacies of casual sex. Written by David Landsberg and directed by Susan Morgenstern, it runs February 6 through March 1 at the Falcon Theatre in Burbank. For tickets call 818-955-8101 or visit www.falcontheatre. com.

“Noises Off” follows an inept acting troupe who stumble through dress rehearsal to the disas-

trous closing night. Written by Michael Frayn and directed by Art Manke, it runs February 6 through March 8 at the on the Segerstrom Stage at the South Coast Repertory in Costa Mesa. For tickets call 714-708-5555 or visit www.scr.org.

“A Don’t Hug Me County Fair” a musical about three women competing in a local beauty

pageant. Written by Phil Olson and directed by Doug Engalla, it runs February 6 through March 29 at the Lonny Chapman Group Repertory Theatre in North Hollywood. For tickets call 818-700-4878 or visit www.lcgrt.com.

“eLove, a Musical.com/edy”

a man and woman discover that love on the internet can be too revealing. Written by Wayland Pickard and directed by Cate Caplin, it runs February 7 through March

28 HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY

29 at The Victory Theatre Center in Burbank. For tickets call 818-841-5422 or visit www.theatermania.com.

“Time Stands Still” a reporter husband and his photographer wife’s attempt to reclaim normal lives is complicated by friends. Written by Donald Margulies and directed by Daniel Sullivan, it runs February 11 through March 15 at the Geffen Playhouse in Los Angeles. For tickets call 310-208-5454 or visit www.GeffenPlayhouse.com.

“The Increased Difficulty of Concentration”

a sociologist is subjected to an artificial intelligence machine which brings out his repressed sexual desires. Written by Vaclav Havel and directed by Alex Lippard, it runs February 13 through March 28 at The Lounge Theatre in Hollywood.

For tickets call 323-960-7788 or visit www.Plays411.com/increaseddifficulty.

“Man of La Mancha”

the musical adaptation of Cervantes classic novel. Written by Dale Wasserman and directed by Michael Michetti, it runs February 14 to March 1 at the Freud Playhouse at UCLA in Los Angeles. For tickets call 310-825-2101 or visit www.reprise.org.

“The Trial of the Catonsville Nine” Catholic priests are convicted of burning government records in protest of the Vietnam war. Written by Daniel Berrigan and directed by Jon Kellam, it runs February 14 through March 21 at The Actors’ Gang Ivy Substation in Culver City. For tickets call 310838-4264 or visit www.theactorsgang.com.

“Divorce! The Musical”

explores the lawyers, therapists and paperwork involved in a divorce.

Written by Erin Kamler and directed by Rick Sparks, it runs February 14 through March 29 at the Hudson Mainstage Theatre in Hollywood. For tickets call 323-960-1056 or visit www.DivorceMusical. com.

“Little Shop of Horrors”

a musical of a flower shop employee who finds fame when he discovers a huge carnivorous plant. Written by Howard Ashman, it runs February 20 through March 15 at The Eclectic Company Theatre in North Hollywood. For tickets call 818-508-3003 or visit www. eclecticcompanytheatre.org.

“The Threepenny Opera”

a murderer has just gotten married and his sinister in-laws want his head. Written by Bertolt Brecht and directed by Jules Aaron, it runs February 20 through March 22 at the Long Beach Performing Arts Center in Long Beach. For tickets call 562-436-4610 or visit www.ictlongbeach.org.

“The Illustrated Bradbury”

depicts nine tales derived from different volumes by the fantasy master. Written by Ray Bradbury and directed by David Smith-English, it runs February 21 through March 8 at the Fremont Centre Theatre in South Pasadena. For tickets call 323-960-4451 or visit www.Plays411.com/raybradbury.

“Ella”

is a musical biography about Ella Fitzgerald featuring 20 of her songs. Conceived by Dyke Garrison and directed by Rob Ruggiero, it runs February 22 through March 22 at the Laguna Playhouse in Laguna Beach. For tickets call 949-497-2787 or visit www.LagunaPlayhouse.com.

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HAPPINESS

Key

“Is it just me or is it getting harder to date in this city?” So asked my friend Pauline over French toast on a recent Sunday morning. Having been dating a great guy for the last three months I shot back, “You can’t look at it that way – you have to be POSITIVE. Now pass me the syrup.” Later, as Pauline and I walked out of the restaurant, it occurred to me: Finding love is not a matter of location and obviously, it requires more than “staying positive.” Finding love –and keeping love alive for that matter–is like creating a great meal: it takes bringing together the right ingredients, careful preparation, and a series of measured steps. Finally, the success of either endeavor involves patience, commitment, attention and a little adventure.

So, if you’re tired of ordering takeout for one, here are a few key ingredients to boosting your chances for love this year.

. Look Online. Throw any preconceived notions of online dating out the window. An estimated 16 million the people are now using online dating in a with U.S. alone. Think of that number have “glass is half full” approach: You se LOTS of (normal) candidates to choo ne onli from. My sister met her husband e, and now three years into their marriag they’re happier than ever.

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. Ask friends to “hook you up.”

And I don’t mean for a one-night stand. Do they know any single people who they respect and trust? Some of the best relationships I’ve experienced and witnessed first-hand have come through introduction by other friends.

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. Give love a chance. Sparks don’t fly immediately? Don’t throw in the towel just yet. So advises Dr. Diana Kirschner, author of “Opening Love’s Door: The 7 Lessons. ”Even if you’re not exactly blown away by a person on the first date, remember to stay open.

You can’t know what secret goodies are hidden in someone just by meeting them once.”

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. Join a club who would have someone like you as a member. Find people who have similar interests; consider joining a political fundraising group, writing class, hiking club. Whatever your interests, there is an organization out there with people just like you.

. Date outside of your comfort zone. Invited to a party by a mechanic when you normally go for bookish types? Say Yes! Dr. Kirschner adds, “Most people do not find love with the type of person they imagine for themselves.” So, no staying home alone. Be open to new possibilities.

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HOLLYWOOD HOLLYWOODWEEKLY WEEKLY31 31

This year’s Grammys Awards follows a tough act- a year following the milestone 50th anniversary of the show that brought together musical prodigies across the decades won’t be easy to outshine. But, it will be its very own landmark show as it reminds us all of the intense power music has to unite people of any culture or language through the common love of a beat or melody. The 51st Grammy Awards comes as a welcome reprieve during a dreary time in history to remind music lovers around the world that an escape from sadness can be obtained by simply playing your radio and connecting to a song. It comes as a symphony from above to remind us all that a shared love of music across continents has brought tribal music and violinists to perform harmoniously as a duo despite cultural differences. It’s demonstrated to our world countless times the absolute necessity music serves to the soul of humankind.

It is a centuries old message that speaks a language of music people rely on to express themselves when the spoken word simply does not.

award winners, seems to have achieved its purpose. It seems the largest hurtle in those beginning years was the recognition of that good ol’ rock n’ roll. As we all well know, rock n’ roll arrived, conquered, changed America forever and well… just never went away. Of course, in any academy there will be oversights and hard beginnings, and as the years have passed, the Grammys have come a long way and audiences have come to believe in the opinions of the Recording Academy who vote. The 12,000 voting members in the academy all work in the music industry and are able to vote in various categories. The most essential thing any awards industry can do is provide an atmosphere that is diverse, yet inclusive and has an air of responsibility that any audience can rely on. And while staying true to the ever-changing sounds that make up the music world, The Grammys add new categories to recognize new music genres. Obviously, this principle has been a great success for every musician who has the coveted ‘Grammy-winning’ or ‘Grammy nominated’ phrase next to their name. One of the most celebrated additions to The Grammys is The Latin Recording Academy. The Latin Grammys was the first prime time English, Spanish and Portuguese language telecast on American TV. It brought millions of people together to watch domestic airwaves in what was probably the most high profile celebration of Latin culture ever. Carlos Santana was honored as Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year in 2004.

Just one of the many phenomenal artists who have made the Latin music world the passionate place we feel safe to shake our hips.

We’ve all heard of the Grammys, but here’s a little history for you about the music industry’s version of the Oscar’s.

In 1958 the Grammys was born. During this time rock n’ roll was driving every housewife crazy while their teenagers danced around their rooms and swooned over the latest heart throb. However, the members of the Recording Academy, who vote on the Grammys, decided to award the very first Grammy album of the year to an artist named Henry Mancini. Ever heard of him? Didn’t think so. Many felt it wasn’t recognizing the music of the times. But, as The Grammys does so well- it put its ears up and began to lis- This year’s nominees have created unforten “to the music.” gettable songs that make listeners feel empowered, others vulnerable and still In time, what some in the music indus- others simply content to tap their feet to try felt was a treacherous climb to fair, the contagious beat. The red carpet is non-conspiracy influenced decisions for going to be full of a diverse spectrum of musical artists February 8th when mu-

sic’s biggest night celebrates the 51st Grammy Awards at the Staples Center.

This year the anticipated hosts will be Wayne Brady and Tia Carrere. With these two as hosts, we already know we’re in for quite an entertaining evening, and that’s even before the awesome live performances begin! It’s always hard to know where to look when these Hollywood hooplas happen! Should we focus on that red carpet as the stars arrive? Or perhaps check out the newest in couture fashion on the hottest new musical darling? Or stare at the tux on that gorgeous foreign singer whose name you can’t pronounce? Or watch that stretch limo that seems longer than your entire apartment building? Or analyze that perfect hairdo you know must have taken hours to perfect? Or grin at the tireless media prancing around that red carpet? Then there’s always the entertaining fans trying to get a glance… an autograph…. a picture… a glimpse… anything! Aren’t we lucky to have the TV to watch all this excitement from the comfort of our sofa? Ahh, yes…. Just another night in Hollywood.

The glitz, the glamour, the glory of la-la land. But we love it! We love L.A.! It’s just so.. so.. well, L.A. Enough said.

In all seriousness, besides the celebrity of it all, its thanks to The Grammys we have a proper conduit to best recognize the artists who have brought tremendous impact to the music industry. Here’s the run down on how these talented artists are nominated into the Grammys line up.

Each recording had to be released during specific dates of the eligibility year, and more or less than five nominations in a category is the result of a tie. There are nearly 100 categories to be awarded during The Grammys this year!

Here are just a few of the most popular categories…….

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And just to refresh your memory, Amy Winehouse was awarded best new artist of the year in the unforgettable 50th Grammy Awards show, she was also awarded best song of the year for her wildly popular “Rehab,” among her other awards! A little trivia for you- back in 1966 Frank Sinatra was awarded record of the year for Strangers In The Night during the 9th Grammy Awards Show. And in 1984 the lovely lady known for her fabulous legs, Tina Turner, was awarded record of the year for What’s Love Got To Do With It.

enjoyment. Everyone will be visiting this unique museum soon!

For more information on the museum or The Grammys visit

HYPERLINK “http://www.GRAMMY.com”

www.GRAMMY.com

Hollywood’s all abuzz with who will be the next Grammy winners!

So, get your dancing shoes on and get ready for one of Hollywood’s most anticipated star-studded spectacles of the year! The Grammys will be aired on CBS. And if for some inexcusable reason you miss this year’s Grammys, you can now cruise over to the brand new Grammy Museum in downtown. The one-of-a-kind 30,000 square foot museum devoted to exploring and celebrating music just opened in December.

It has interactive, permanent and traveling exhibits all for your

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY 37

eet Howard and Debbie Nodelman, owners of The Water Loft, a company committed to providing premium select waters delivered to your door. Before getting their feet wet, Howard worked in textiles and Debbie owned her own dress manufacturing company. After years of hard work and determination, clients increasingly chose to outsource overseas. Making a collective decision, they both decided to retire from the garment industry and open an innovative business.

Self-proclaimed water connoisseurs, the Nodelmans were introduced to the fine water industry which encompasses ultra premium waters from England, France, Japan, South America and other regions of the world. With undeniable passion from everything to the water source to the bottling design, the couple decided to tap into the water industry, an industry that has quadrupled over the last decade.

Why water? Water is essential to life. Approximately 75% of your body is made of water. Whether thirsty or not, you drink water so that the cells in your body can achieve hydration. The more effectively you hydrate your cells, the healthier they will be and the longer they will live.

As a result, effective hydration gives you increased energy and the ability to perform at more optimal levels while flushing out toxins more effectively.

The owners realized that people everywhere, but primarily in So. California, were interested in health and wellness. By acknowledging the lifestyle of Los Angeles’ urban dwellers and local businesses, in 2007 the two developed The Water Loft to fit the needs and wants of their customers.

Who is it that exactly fits the profile? People like you and me. A customer who believes

38 HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY

in health and wellness, saving the environment, and those who have been accustomed to the taste of great water.

With high rises, apartments, lofts, and office buildings, LA has become a vertical city. People need a variety of services. The Water Loft created a unique philosophy “to deliver select waters to your door”. Unlike Sparkletts and Arrowhead, customers are not bound to a contract. Whether you prefer artesian, spring, mineral, structured, oxygenated or alkaline, the company’s unique service ships your favorite water when you need it, as you need it.

The Water Loft has created a new avenue in which small and large businesses can advertise on a budget. “Promoting on a water bottle is a great method,” Debbie Nodelman explains. “The bottles can be carried anywhere and everywhere. Any stranger can see your company. A company they may not have known existed before”.

Advertising on a water bottle is more affordable, portable, and tangible than a billboard on Sunset. The bottles don’t have to remain as free giveaways that simply get used once and then tossed.

People are bound to reuse and recycle the bottle with your company logo or slogan.

In addition to simply providing employees with water, the owners suggest sponsoring events or charging for the water bottles.

Howard Nodelman chimes in, “The way I see it, why advertise for someone else [Aquafina, Dasani] when you can advertise for yourself and possibly profit”.

The Water Loft is the So. California distributor for the mega brand and fashion label Ed Hardy Structured Water. This private label water bottle can soon be found nationally.

The Water Loft has made it fun and practical for a wide range of businesses including realtors, universities, salons, gyms, restaurants and super markets to produce personalized private label water bottles. The four step process includes selecting a quality bottle and cap, determining the type of water used, and submitting

your design. For an affordable price starting at forty cents a bottle, your company can use the product and marketing tool to stimulate growth and buzz for your brand.

Taking the hassle out of lugging heavy cases of water (generally weighing 30 pounds) from the market to your home or office, The Water Loft promises to deliver.

They provide great tasting water in just a click, you to can order with them online at www.thewaterloft.com.

The functional and easy to access website allows you to shop and browse through all brands offered. The Water Loft carries everything from sparkling to still.

The company’s categories include Premium waters like Voss, Smart Water and Fiji, Alkaline waters, Specialty Juices, Glass Sodas, Organic teas, and Mona Vie. Originating from Wales, Ty Nant is as chic as a bottle of water can get. With eye-popping bottles in colors cobalt blue and ruby red these jewel-like bottles are my personal favorite.

Debbie Nodelman emphasizes on the advantages of Alkaline Water. Without the proper foods, fluids and lifestyle, our blood and tissues can become too acidic and we become sick. However, we can overcome even some of the most dramatic health issues simply by alkalizing (or adjusting) the pH level of the fluids in our bodies through proper diet and lifestyle.

Other benefits of Alkaline water include: smooth refreshing taste and super hydration.

The Water Loft is proud to be part of your neighborhood. With a three case minimum order they will offer free shipping to drinkers in the majority of the Los Angeles area. The Water Loft expansion plans include offering its unique service to every city in Southern California, and in to metropolitan cities nationwide.

UIF8BUFS-PGU DPN Our goal is to bring LA’s urban dwellers and businesses premium select waters (artesian, spring, structured, and oxygenated) delivered to your door. The8BUFSLoft acknowledges the lifestyle you have chosen and wants to provide you with a service that will suit your daily needs.

You will no longer have to carry heavy cases of water from the market to your home or office!

We also understand that people drink many different brands of waters. We offer a variety, for everyday, for special events, that gourmet dinner, even for those clients who will appreciate the design of the bottle. If you drink something that is not on our menu, please request it.

We will make every effort to accommodate you.

Our goal is to provide you with choices, and the best possible service.

Water is essential for life!

We invite you to browse and shop online.

And thank you for making us a part of your neighborhood.

4FMFDU XBUFST EFMJWFSFE UP ZPVS EPPS Howard & Debbie Nodelman 5IF8BUFS-PGU UIF8BUFS-PGU DPN .

310 341-0877 info@thewaterloft.com

Just a few of our current products; please see our website for descriptions & ordering

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Café with full service kitchen

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Lounge/meeting room, fully equiped for

State of the art men’s and women’s locker rooms

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Relaxation room / lounge area

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General spa area including: •

Large indoor swimming pool

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Jacuzzi

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Cold plunge

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Refreshment / juice bar

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4 specialty saunas

•

Body scrub room

old world tradition • Integrated shower facilities meets modern luxury • Treatment rooms equipped for: •

Variety of massage treatments

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voda spa is a comprehensive •daySkin spacare and cosmetology • Body wraps for total relaxation and rejuvenation.

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offers a selection of saunas scrub • and Parking available rooms, large indoor swimming pool,

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Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday (12pm - 12am)

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old world tradition meets modern luxury Introducing Los Angeles’ new day resort offering a variety of Russian banyas and European saunas, set in an ultramodern urban retreat.

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HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY 43

EXCITING NEW LISTINGS COMING SOON: 2 BEAUTIFUL GATED ESTATES IN ENCINO

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©2008 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned and Operated by NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the condition or features of property provided by the seller or obtained from public records or other sources, and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. JOB#LW1209 DESIGNED BY MUSHED PEAS ©2009 323.222.6597

44HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY

Susan Stark A 20-year veteran of the real estate business whose client list is as impressive as her list of accomplishments, Susan Stark is the epitome of the hard-working agent.

Her discipline underscores a strong determination to achieve the very best results for her clients; to that end, she works tirelessly on their behalf to achieve a quick and profitable sale for her sellers and secure the right property for her buyers, always acting with the utmost integrity along the way.

Stark’s vast knowledge of the Westside, available inventory, and pricing trends makes her a valuable resource to her clients, while her broad network of industry contacts and strong negotiating skills

310.622.7450 direct

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deepen her ability to meet their needs and exceed their expectations.

Because of the way she does business, Stark’s clients return time and again and refer friends and family to her for their real estate needs.

Stark built her career at Coldwell Banker’s Brentwood West office, where she was consistently honored for outstanding production, earning the lofty International Presidents’ Circle and Elite, and becoming a Previews Property specialist recognized for her excellence in working with multi-million-dollar properties. Stark is also an architectural properties specialist and has extensive experience working with developers and new construction.

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2115 Mandeville Canyon Road Brentwood, CA 90049 5 bedrooms, 5.5 baths.

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