Frank Sinatra STILL does it His Way
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The Indie Movie, LOCKPORT Hits a Major Goal Julian Lennon Debuts a New Amazing Album
COLLINS BOOTSY
JULY 2013, VOL. 19 PUBLISHER/EDITOR IN CHIEF Prather Jackson
VICE PRESIDENT Bernice Harris Michael D. Coxson
OPERATIONS Erskine D. McSwain (1991-2000)
With my dear friend, Christina Backman
A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Dear Readers, Happy Summer!! We have so many exciting stories for you this month! We begin by delving right into the amazing world of Bootsy Collins. A dynamo who truly defines the soul of music. Then we’ve got fashionista Dawn “Sunflower” Nguyen’s creative designs... perfect for any summer evening! We also catch up with Terri Melkonian and discuss her production company; she’s producing the Indie-hit movie LOCKPORT. As always, Terri’s making everything happen in extraordinary fashion. We also proudly debut our newest column “The Golden Era of Hollywood.” Get ready for photos of Tinseltown’s most legendary stars taken by acclaimed photographer, Sid Avery. Finally, we’ve covered some of the hottest red-carpet events including the star-studded Miami Heat’s champagne-drenched celebration win! I leave you with this advice: Just for today - do not judge... For judgment keeps you stuck... Judgment pulls you out of the NOW...Judgment disconnects you from your source of infinite creation. If you find yourself in judgment- that’s okay...Be kind to yourself and give yourself this gentle reminder...
MANAGING EDITOR Jenny Werth
ART DIRECTOR Ron Lucarelli DIR. OF MARKETING Launy Rhem
LIFE & STYLE EDITOR Niki Shadrow-Snyder ASSOCIATE EDITOR Anthony Ewart GUEST CONTRIBUTOR Karen Bystedt Dallas J. Logan CONTRIBUTORS Yota Batsaras Anthony Calderon Sid Fish Niki Shadrow Jenny Werth Steve Zall Meagan Sargent
DESIGN /SOCIAL MEDIA Andy Castillo RESEARCH/ DEVELOPMENT Alberto Arellano CREATIVE SERVICES Fabio PRODUCTION MANAGER Hector Santacruz VP Corporate Accounts Strategy & Planning Rudy Germany DISTRIBUTOR NEWSWAYS
“Just for today... Don’t judge.” May your summer be filled with peace and love. All my best,
Jenny Wert h Jenny Werth P.S. Please send your thoughts to me at: Jenny@hollywoodweeklymagazine.com www.linkedin.com/pub/jenny-werth/28/658/956/ 2 - HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY
KEEP UP WITH HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY AT: www.hollywoodweeklymagazine.com FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: @hollywoodweeklymagazine
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BOOTSY COLLINS The Man, The Living Legend, J U LY
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The Very Heart of a Soul: His Extraordinary Story & Sooo Much More
8 PHOTOGRAPHER SID AVERY
26 LOCKPORT
10 THE GOLDEN ERA OF HOLLYWOOD
28 TERRI MELKONIAN
18 DAWN ‘SUNFLOWER’ NGUYEN
34 2013 TONY AWARDS GREEN ROOM
22 JULIAN LENNON
36 SUMMER MUST-HAVES
24 ELVIS AND THE NUN
42 MIAMI HEAT CELEBRATE!
The celebrated photographer epitomizes the power of a photo. An exclusive Q & A with his son, Ron Avery.
“Hollywood Weekly’s” Exclusive Pictorial Visit Back To the Legendary Stars Who Paved “Their Way” To Today.
Beautiful and bold designs from the hottest new fashionforward designer. Summery-hues with a whimsical flair.
The talented son of John Lennon finally releases his much anticipated album.... We’re following in love with him all over again.
Sister Dolores Hart has experienced it all. How the gorgeous Hollywood starlet went from kissing Elvis to becoming a nun living in a convent.
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This upcoming Indie-Film has Hollywood buzzing. It entertains with excitement, passion, anticipation and true emotion.
Catching up with Terri Melkonian. The powerhouse producer never stops creating gold. Her production company produces LOCKPORT.
Stars catch up at this year’s fantastic Tony Awards. Some of the hottest celebs chat it up.
A sensational slice of summer’s sun. New trends, devices and fashions for a shiny summer!
Moët Chandon is the champagne of choice after the Miami Heat makes a smash victory! The celebration of the month!
HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY IS A MONTHLY PUBLICATION WHOLLY OWNED BY JACKSON PUBLISHING COMPANY. © 2013 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRODUCTION OF ANY CONTENT WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHER IS EXPRESSLY PROHIBITED. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR MAY BE SENT TO: EDITOR@JACKSONPUBLISHING.COM HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY, 1438 NORTH GOWER STREET, BOX 42, HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA 90028. FOR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES CALL: (323) 315-9498.
HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY - 3
THE UNIVERSE IS CALLING
BOOTSY COLLINS
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by Anthony Ewart Photography by Michael Weintrob
T
he Universe always claims its own. Many others have claimed to not be from this Earth, I can only attest to what I know firsthand. In my interview with Bootsy Collins I’m beginning to believe that maybe the Universe does stretch out its Stardust to affect the lives of wandering souls from distant planets here on Earth. A Celestial wakeup call. For Bootsy, the road to his Galactic enlightenment all started at the early age of nine. Bootsy took an interest in his elder brother, “Catfish,” who was, in Bootsy’s own words “a hip, cool, guitarswinging Casanova.” Living in a home with no Father, it’s not hard to guess why Catfish became Bootsy’s idol. He began practicing with Catfish’s guitar without his permission. Unfortunately Bootsy was too young to know that the saying “Never touch another man’s woman,” also applied to “touching another man’s Guitar.” Nonetheless Bootsy felt compelled to learn how to play his older brother’s guitar. The routine was Bootsy would practice while Catfish was working his paper route. Anyone familiar with the perils of clandestine affairs can probably imagine what happened next: Catfish came home early one day from his paper route and Bootsy was caught. Luckily Bootsy’s Mother also had the good fortune to come home early and intervene in the wrath and punishment Catfish was serving Bootsy, who was near an asthma attack at the time. The epiphany that came to Bootsy after this experience was swift: he needed to talk his mother into buying him a guitar – but it wasn’t in the stars for Bootsy at the time. It would be four years later when Bootsy got a paper route just like his brother Catfish that he finally convinced his Mother to get a guitar on credit and he’d pay the bill each week until it was paid off. He bought a $29 Silvertone guitar. The color was a loud Green. Weird at the time, but you couldn’t tell Bootsy that. He loved that guitar more than anything else. Bootsy started off in a church group called “The Christian-Aires.” He played with the Christian Aires for two years and started to feel he was ready to prove to his brother Catfish that he was worthy & ready. It happened one night decades ago in a dive bar in Cincinnati, Ohio. Catfish
told Bootsy that their bass player mysteriously disappeared and that he needed a replacement who could play for the weekend. There are many reasons why Bootsy should have been discouraged from volunteering himself. Number one, Bootsy could not play bass. Normally we’d stop right there but we are talking about Bootsy Collins, after all, who doesn’t get discouraged easily. The second obstacle was that he had no bass guitar. Once again, pretty sizeable hurdles to get around on such short notice, but let’s say Bootsy could somehow meet these first two challenges, Bootsy’s age was an issue. He was eight years younger than Catfish and couldn’t get into the clubs
Universe placed a vision in Bootsy’s mind of him doing exactly that. Somehow Bootsy convinced Catfish to start the first step of his transformation by scouting out some bass strings. Once Bootsy had the bass strings Part Two was getting them on his guitar. He did that. We come now to Part Three, which is Bootsy standing on stage with his brother and drummer in the band, looking at him and asking, “What do you want to play?” Or, more succinctly, “What can you play?” There were two songs in the memorized musical repertoire of young Bootsy Collins at the time. One was “Green Onions” by Booker T. & The MG’s, the other was “The Peter Gunn Theme” by
“The Universe was up to its old tricks again: James Brown’s previous backup left because of money issues and ‘The Hardest Working Man in Show Business’ heard about the hardest working band in Cincinnati.”
without his parent’s permission, but young Bootsy was a Space Traveler on a mission. Bootsy loves saying that “Funk is making something out of nothing,” and that’s just what Bootsy did. He tells his brother, “If you can find me some bass strings I’ll string them up on my guitar and play it upside down if I have to.” Catfish stated the obvious to Bootsy, which is that even if he could find some bass strings Bootsy didn’t play bass. Now, right here Bootsy made a judgment call. This is his one shot to get on stage with his brother. There will probably never be another entry point this streamlined. All he has to do is somehow fit bass strings on his guitar and learn how to play while on stage. I can only imagine that the
Henry Mancini. No one remembers what song the band played first. What they do remember is that Bootsy was a natural bass player. He seemed to lift people off the dance floor with the vibrations coming from his makeshift bass guitar. Bootsy knew that Catfish would ultimately have to do admit what everyone in the club was thinking and feeling that night which is “that boy is bad!” Catfish, however, was not that easy; he never told Bootsy that he was good enough. Catfish’s rejection only fueled the fire and desire in the heart and soul of Bootsy. The Universe always claims its own. Putting that bass in Bootsy’s hand was equivalent to King Arthur pulling Excalibur from the stone. There was HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY - 5
BOOTS no question that Bootsy’s journey had begun; no one knew where it would end. Bootsy went on playing small clubs and bars around Cincinnati even though he was underage, his mother felt she’d rather him practice bass at home and perform in bars than hang out on street corners and get himself into trouble, so she always made sure he got on stage. Catfish’s new band with new bass player Bootsy Collins, were called The Pacemakers. They made a name for themselves as a band that played high-energy, electric rhythmic syncopated grooves; according to Bootsy they “moved bodies like a blender, blending a cold milk shake on a hot summer’s after noon.” Cincinnati was the home of King Records where James Brown recorded, and Bootsy, Catfish, Don Martin, Frankie Waddy and other band members would wait across the street just to watch The Godfather of Soul enter the recording studio. Bootsy had no idea how soon his path would cross with the mighty James Brown. One day while at King Records, Bootsy met an A&R man named Charles Spurling. Charles came to a show and immediately signed the boys up. Once these young music motivators got in the door at King Records the main producer, Henry Glover, who had heard them playing in the studio asked them to play on several recording sessions with artists like Hank Ballard, Arthur Prysock, Bill Dogget and many others. These recordings solidified their growing reputation at King Records and within one year there was a buzz about this new psychedelic infusion of a funky 6 - HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY
soul sound coming from Bootsy’s band, but none of this could be mentioned – Funk, at the time, was a Bad word. Mr. James Brown himself heard about the hardest working band in Cincinnati and asked them to come into the studio to record with him & Marva Whitney. Mr. Dynamite, as they called James Brown, was not only amazed at the skill these musicians demonstrated, he couldn’t believe they weren’t asking for any money – they simply played out of a sheer love of music. As the universe would have it, James Brown’s previous backup band left because of money issues. One night Bobby Byrd, who was one of the original James Brown & the Famous Flames, was assigned the mission to take Mr. Brown’s Lear Jet to Cincinnati to pick up Bootsy & the Boys so that they would come and play a show that night. When Bootsy and Catfish played, they did the seemingly impossible again – they impressed James Brown, the originator of the original “On the One,” and the man who almost single-handedly brought soul to the masses. Mr. Brown had but one request that turned into a demand. He said, “Bootsy, you cannot come on my stage again with that ugly bass guitar.” You see Bootsy was still using the same makeshift bass he created for himself that fateful night he discovered he was destined to be a bass player. With his new bass and the band backing the one and only James Brown, life was as good as it could possibly get for any musician. Bootsy and the band were now known as the “Original J.B.’s”.Bootsy, however, despite having the greatest job one could ever hope for, felt a pulling toward something greater. Something bigger and larger than just music. According to Bootsy he “heard the Mothership”. As the Universe has done all his life, a path was created that took Bootsy to Detroit to meet George Clinton. Bootsy describes going for long road trips with George Clinton where they talked about books and movements that backed up their theory of being transplanted beings from another planet. Just think, with Clinton’s newfound partnership with Bootsy they were now ready to make their “Mothership Connection.” It was Clinton who formed Parliament-
Funkadelic and his alien invasion of our souls had begun, but it wasn’t until Bootsy brought “The One” that he had learned from Mr. James Brown into the light that the future of P-Funk began to form. Their mythology around it sparked a revolution in music: the true creation of Funk Music. Bootsy and Clinton took the concept of The One to Cosmic levels as their music was more complex and layered than anything James Brown had recorded. Even Sly and the Family Stone who were arguably the successors to James Brown in bringing soul music to the mainstream, were not operating on the same frequency Bootsy and Clinton were. The sounds Bootsy heard in his head and played on his “Spacebass” were undeniably otherworldly, and he was now free to explore these emotions and musical explorations as far as the Universe would take him...and the Universe took him with open arms... The Universe always claims its own... To learn more about the number one “Funkateer” of all time you can go to www.bootsycollins.com, where you’ll learn about Bootsy’s current tours and new CDs. You can also become a Funkateer and get your Funk Card – never leave home without it. Bootsy still Produces, Arranges, Remixes and fi xes. He loves doing voice over work for animation and is always doing community service. Bootsy knows in his heart that, as he puts it, “Stars have no names, they just Shine.” Then there is The Bootsy Collins Foundation, where they have music programs directed at Schools that have dropped their Music curriculums. The Bootsy Collins Foundation also helps people who can’t afford dental care with the Kyle Willis Oral Care Program. You can visit www.bootsycollinsfoundation. org for more information. Bootsy also has an online School called: Funk University. Visit them at: www.thefunkuniversity.com I’ll leave you with one final word from Bootsy to sum up his current mission: “I am your Pusher-Man, Spreading Hope Like Dope.”
TSY
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SID AVERY, THE MAN, THE PHOTOGRAPHER, THE STORY OF PHOTOS HE LEAVES BEHIND. Sid Avery photographed the most legendary celebrities to tantalize Tinseltown. He took great pride in his art, and over time, he found that even the most difficult of stars would let their guard down when he entered the room. “The Hollywood Weekly” is thrilled to work with Sid Avery’s son, Ron Avery, as we journey down the avenue of the Golden Era of Hollywood. Here, in pictures which speak volumes louder than words, we’re treated to images that say it all.
Q:
Please share some interesting stories that Sid Avery had from his experiences shooting classic hollywood celebrities. Are there a handful that really stick in your mind? Why?
A:
I love the stories about James Dean. He was famously cautious of photographers
but Sid just broke right through that wall. They were really friendly on the sets of Giant and Rebel without a Cause. James Dean was curious about photography and they bonded over that. We have great photos of James playing with Sid’s cameras. We even have a few images that were shot by James Dean. Sid shared a lot of his amazing stories in his book Sid Avery: The Art of the Hollywood Snapshot. One of my favorites is the story
of his photo shoot with Marlon Brando. Sid showed up at Brando’s house for the photo shoot and it was an absolute mess. Sid decided to turn Brando cleaning his house into the photo shoot. That’s why we have pictures of him cleaning his closet and taking out the trash. Can you imagine Marlon Brando taking out the trash? It definitely doesn’t go with his persona.
Q: Please allow my readers an The Ocean’s Eleven image from left to right is: Sid Avery, Bill Knapp, Ron Avery, Stuart Kusher, George Clooney, David Barenholtz.
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Hollywood W Hollywood Weekly eekly's E xclusive lOook at Hollywood's B Beloved elovedIcons.
Sid’s son, Ron Avery is a photographer and the CEO of mptv.
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HOLLYWOOD
ICO
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Frank Sinatra at a Capitol Records recording session in Los Angeles circa 1957 ©1978 Sid Avery The photo appears in “Sid Avery: The Art of the Hollywood Snapshot”
World-renowned photographer, Sid Avery, captured images of Tinseltown legends through his intimate photos. These are the celebrities who defined Hollywood then, and, still do today. “insider’s look” inside the conception of your company? Where did the idea stem from? How was it at the start?
A:
The company actually started as a nonprofit back in the 80s. Sid and his photographer friends realized that there was nowhere for companies to go to license their images. The photographers just weren’t getting any credit, let alone payment, for the work that they created. He felt that it was important to preserve the photographer’s legacy and work. That is still very important to us and drives how we make decisions for the business.
Q:
What is the history of the company: specifically how did it come to have such an amazing collection of vintage Hollywood photography?
A:
In his early 20s, Sid worked at a camera store and met a lot of Hollywood photographers and celebrities that would come into the shop. He made a lot of connections that gave him the opportunity to shoot celebrities. Sid didn’t really have a large collection of vintage Hollywood photography initially. After he started the company, he was presented with an opportunity to purchase a large collection. The collection was either going to be sold or thrown out! So Sid bought
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it. It would have been a shame to lose that huge collection of work. It’s important to the history of Hollywood photography.
Q:
What were the challenges and/ or hurtles you had to overcome to make these features a reality?
A:
Starting the website back in 1998 was definitely a challenge. No other stock agency had a website so there was no example to follow. It was a huge gamble at the time, and one that has clearly paid off. The internet and our website have completely changed how we do business.
Q:
How has the relationship(s) between celebrity and photographers and/or papparazzi changed the world of Hollywood? Did you and your colleagues ever anticipate such an “obsession” with celebrity?
A: I think there has always been a certain
curiosity about celebrity. Photographers, for better or worse, help fuel that obsession. What makes mptv stand out is that we want to represent beautiful images by true photographers. We want to see the celebrity in the best light. We have no interest in paparazzi
Q: Who are the top 5 people Sid photographed
whom never left his memory. And why?
A:
Some of Sid’s favorite shoots were with James Dean, Audrey Hepburn, Steve McQueen, Clark Gable and Humphrey Bogart. Sid was definitely the most star struck by Clark Gable because he grew up knowing him as a huge celebrity. He was called the ‘King of Hollywood’ and was already a major star when James Dean was just getting started. You have to remember that when Sid photographed a subject, they may have only been a struggling actor or just starting out at the time. Many of the people Sid shot became famous years later. And it’s no surprise, Sid was a genius. Next month’s treat- Marlon Brando. HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY - 11
c
Na dine Orona
Bringing Back the Golden Age of Hollywood
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N
adine Orona is an actress from another era. Her foundation is built on Film Goddesses like Betty Davis, Vivien Leigh and Meryl Streep. Acting has been an ongoing love story for her that started at 15 when her great-grandmother got her started in modeling. Commercial classes followed soon after and gradually Nadine became enamored with being in front of the camera; but it was her introduction to classic movies by a close friend of her grandfather that turned Nadine into the artist she is today. Nadine’s grandfather was a photographer, and his friend, whom Nadine would later call her Aunt, was an interior designer who also designed furniture. Perhaps it was Nadine’s
natural poise and grace as a young teenager, or just a level of maturity Nadine embodied, whatever the reason, Nadine’s Aunt decided to immerse her in the world of classic cinema. It’s hard to imagine a high school teenager today whose favorite movie is “Gone with the Wind” and favorite actress Vivien Leigh, but this is the world Nadine grew up in. She even has a favorite Betty Davis movie, “Jezebel” – I know people whose only exposure to Betty Davis came from Kim Carnes’ song “Betty Davis Eyes.” Clearly there’s a lot going on behind the eyes of Nadine Orona. When her photographs first came across my desk I was struck by how much Nadine actually resembled actresses from the past. I wasn’t surprised when she told me she’s often hired by photographers for “vintage shoots,” where she portrays women from the thirties, forties and fifties. Beautiful women from Hollywood’s Golden Age. This is the kind of depth and texture an audience experiences when watching a Nadine Orona performance.
Written by Anthony Ewart
Her goal is to always leave a tangible emotion on film for viewers to connect with, regardless of the pain such a cathartic portrayal may cause her. In “Amara,” directed by Frank E. Garcia, Nadine’s character, “Melanie,” was pregnant with the title character, Amara, but also battling cancer. For this role of an incredibly brave woman putting on a happy face for the world while fighting her illness, Nadine looked to her greatgrandmother who had recently passed away from cancer. Nadine remembers her great-grandmother as a woman full of courage who, despite her battle, inspired her loved ones to stay strong… This is what Nadine brought to the screen. Nadine is an actor’s actor. Her fans encompass film viewers and filmmakers. The inside joke is that once she works with a director they end up casting her in almost
j
all of their future projects. Her first performance was for a director’s class at CSUN for Writer/Director Stuart Chan. The scene was from “The Bijou,” and the audience reaction from that scene started a collaboration between Stuart and Nadine that continues today. Her next project is with Director Oliver Defilippo, with whom she has worked with on several other projects, as well. Ironically the toughest critic Nadine has is herself. She confessed to me that many times while filming a scene she’ll think “I don’t know if this is a ‘Sophie’s Choice’ performance!” A Classic Hollywood actress in the 21st Century is the best way to describe Nadine Orona, and if Meryl Streep’s Oscar-winning performance in “Sophie’s Choice” is the bar Nadine is striving to reach, then her entire career will be – and already is – a wondrous journey of which I, like many others, will enjoy witnessing… So, cheers to all of us, like Nadine Orona, chasing our own perfection of a “Sophie’s Choice” moment… Somehow, I think she’ll catch it first.
Photographers: Director, Oliver Defilippo oliverdefilippo.com Photographer: Lisa Cleeland-Correia lisa.cleelandcorreia@ facebook.com
Make-up Artist: Genesis Garcia www.facebook.com/ pages/Faces-byGenesis/317149631741894?fref=ts Stylist: Lauren Rodriguez www.facebook.com/lauren. rodriguez.7161?ref=ts&fref=ts Wardrobe: Diana Galvez vintagegoupies@esty.com Hair Color specialist: Jerry Cortez Kut Haus Salon Covina, Ca HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY - 13
Leilani Sanders By Meagan Sargeant
C
omedian, median, humanitarian, and aspiring actress Leilani Sanders, brings a whole new meaning to the phrase ‘multi-talented’. The Southern California native sits down and discusses brushing elbows to some of California’s biggest names, what keeps her grounded and her take on this competitive industry. Born and raised in Los Angeles wanting to be famous is nothing new, especially with being submerged in a city where ‘being famous is the norm.’ Embarking on the quest takes courage, wit, and that special ‘it’ factor. “I’ve been a performer since I can remember,’ explains Leilani, ‘I feel like it is my job to make people laugh.” Now in adulthood, Leilani has been taking her career seriously as she has already booked shows in some of Los Angeles’ top-tier comedy houses. With a demeanor and confidence that is undeniable she has proved herself to be a force to be reckoned with. More than just a pretty face, Leilani has set the bar and has given a performance that speaks volumes. “I’ve overcome a lot of obstacles,’ says Leilani, ‘and I fell like this is my time and god wants to show me why I exist. Inspired by Jim Carey, Bernie Mac, and Lucille Ball, Leilani says another idol is Whoopie Goldberg, because of her strong presence and her ability to ‘take over the stage.’ Leilani says her major inspiration is her mother and Jesus for the unconditional love and waking up everyday. Staying focused and pushing through to not only follow her dreams and passions, but to also break barriers. “I’ve been told in the past to get my head out of the clouds and find a real job, I’ve event been told comedy won’t take me anywhere’ she reflects, ‘but that will never stop me from doing what I love. Comedy is a part of me!” The ups and downs along with the ‘unsure- ness’ of the entertainment industry is enough to deter anyone, however, skillfully she has been able to surpass this initial feeling and adjust to the lifestyle. “This is a dream and we don’t even know why we are here, says Leilani, ‘to me the world is a dream we are living it- if you want to live it, live it.” Recently Leilani has been performing at venues such as: Comedy Store, Comedy Union, Smiles Night Club, and the Aura Lounge. With another show at the Comedy Store on April 9th and Duna comedy Lounge on April 12th, this in-demand comedian hopes to perform at the world famous Laugh Factory soon! Leilani would like people to ‘judge her on her craft verses her look’ and also advises for people to stop letting the internet ruin our lives in order to fully prosper and move forward in life. Whether it’s transforming her face to look exactly like the ‘grinch’, impersonations, or jokes about her life thus far she is simply a riot and someone to check out. For more information please email: hollywoodweekly@gmail.com 14 - HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY
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GL OR I A G O VA N ’ S
A Mixed Girl’s Favorite Recipes
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he Stars of this breakthrough cookbook -both Gloria and Marlena will tell you – it’s their families who instilled in them a love of their ancestral recipes and the knowledge of the true bonding-effect food can have on people. The heritage of the authors is as colorful as the contents of this book. Gloria Govan, is from Mexican and African-American roots, and Marlena Attinasi is a mix of Italian and African-American. “A Mixed Girl’s Favorite Recipes,” is their debut to the world, a debut that will create everlasting dialogue about this new, emerging culture of bi-racial families. This is a cookbook to be shared, loved, treasured and used – often – preferably in the presence of family and friends. Let the love begin. www.mixedgirlsfavorites.com
! N O O S G N COMI HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY - 17
Dawn ‘Sunflower’ Nguyen Heart-Felt Emotions Inspire Beautiful Runway Fashions by Meagan Sargent
Live with a purpose, love with a passion 18 - HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY
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awn Nguyen makes fashions that draw the eye straight to the runway. With rich colors and decadent designs, she’s taking creativity to a whole new level. “Fashion is more of a culture or trend that each country or region follows. It helps you express yourself and should always be based on what you find interesting,” says the popular fashion designer from Saigon, Vietnam. “It’s about your creativity, sending it into beautiful fabrics, and flattering others that somehow look different and beautiful while wearing your designs.” With inspirations such as Chanel and Dior, Dawn describes her personal style as simple and elegant. Using bright and bold colors such as gold, black and navy, she chooses to design styles that are ever-changing, effortless and flawless while still showcasing a feminine, glamorous, yet classic and chic montage. She’s inspired by beautiful music, art, and various colors which enable her to bring her thoughts and creations to life.
“If you love fashion, then you need to be passionate and dedicated to it. Life is not about finding yourself, it’s about creating yourself!”
She graduated from UC Riverside with a Bachelors in Business Administration in 2010 and currently attends FIDM as a fashion designer. “When I watch fashion runway shows, I fall in love with it.” Dawn shares. “I want to show off my skills to the audiences.” Blessed with supportive parents, Dawn has chosen to live by this motto: “live with a purpose, love with a passion.” After years of education, Dawn has started designing her own clothing line. By draping and sewing garments first, and then sketching her work, Dawn has found her unique approach to be beneficial for creating her signature looks. “My parents have always been supportive of everything I do.” Dawn says. “Although [being a] fashion designer is a very challenging career, their hope and support enables me to gain confidence creatively.” Her success if growing FAST. In fact, she recently completed a Ready-To-Wear collection for Las Vegas Fashion Week in Feb 2013, along with a Read-to-Wear during Birmingham Fashion Week in March 2013. She also participated in an international student competition and was selected as a finalist designer at the Royal Fashion Show in February. The busy seamstress has also submitted sketches and completed sewing a full dress for a Princess Diana competition. Additionally, she is doing a runway show in NYC Fashion Week, (http://plitzs.com/nycfashionweek/) on Sept 7th, 2013 at Park Central Hotel in New York City. “If you love fashion, then you need to be passionate and dedicate to it. Life is not about finding yourself, it’s about creating yourself,” says Dawn. “Creativity is not about the result, but the journey. Don’t follow ‘creativity’ by the ideas of others, but by your own taste or styles.” Her line of “R-T-W” was inspired from ‘Day’ and ‘Night.’ A noticeable difference she displays from other designers is that she loves to mix different colors and fabrics that create a bright/dark color contrast with an edgy twist. HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY - 19
Dawn’s extraordinary talent as a designer are obvious in all these striking fashions. A true sunflower she is... seemingly able to bring out the natural beauty of flowers in each of her creations. Just a glimpse of this celebrity’s beautifully hued dress says it all.
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As for words of wisdom for aspiring designers?, “Be confident [in] your creativity, be willing to try something new and challenging, never give up too early before attempting, and remain passionate to what you do and love.” For more info on Dawn, please visit: Dawnsunflower.com (It’s an on-line boutique).
From the outset, Dawn Sunflower has been known for women’s unique, classic, and elegant styles. Delicate good quality fabrics inside a single moment. Each single piece garment embodies simplicity, classic, elegant and contemporary style. And rich class. Plus, they’re all under her own label signature “Dawn Sunflower.” Dawn says, “I often choose a different path. Communication, expression, emotion are essential. For me, it is important to create something new, yet inspired through emotion. In every collection, there’s a story. Dawn’s philosophy of fashion is about her creativity. She sends it into beautiful fabrics, and flatters others that somehow look different and beautiful while wearing her designs. “Fashion is my means of expression.” Fashion is my life. The smile on people’s faces is what keeps me going. Sometimes, you should be confident in yourself. Personally, I design with the idea in mind that I don’t want my fashions to look like other designers. That’s why I use only unique fabrics and my own design techniques. For me, it often starts with some fabrics and colors, and then I work off of that. I build up my color charts from moods and feelings that I want to express. And I normally go on an inspiration with each of the graphics, paintings, arts, and love songs. They all have their own theme, yet, they each give me a signal and a kind of belonging. This is inspiration.” HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY - 21
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n an exceptional summer day last month, Julian Lennon released his first album in 15 years, the stunning Everything Changes (Music From Another Room), a masterwork of powerfully vulnerable and sophisticatedly accessible adult pop.
Julian’s melding of uplifting introspection and thoughtful social commentary with refined hooks has made for a compelling six-album body of work. His debut, Valotte (Atlantic), yielded two top ten hits—the title track and “Too Late for Goodbyes”—and was nominated for a Grammy for “Best New Artist.” He went on to have #1 singles on the U.S. album rock charts. Internationally, one of his most popular songs “Saltwater” charted successfully around the world, topping in Australia for four weeks and reached #6 in the UK. In advance of its June 4th U.S. release, his latest, Everything Changes (Music From Another Room), is already receiving national airplay and press plaudits nationally and internationally. The Sunday Press calls it a “revelation” and Herald Standard gushes Julian has “returned stronger and better than ever.” Everything Changes is a stunning achievement. It’s stately and intimate, and thoughtfully paced. Lyrically, it covers romance, introspection, and humanitarian concerns with artistic concision, mixing clever wordplay with emotional directness. The poignancy and poise of “Everything Changes” opens the album and sets a universally spiritual tone. The beautifully crafted lead off single “Someday” features mystical Eastern melodic motifs and boasts guest vocalist Steven Tyler. It engagingly combines Julian’s lifework as a philanthropist and gifted songwriter. Here, Julian sings pristinely with earnestness the timeless message: “We’re all in it together / One love, now and forever.” Other album standouts are the mesmerizing piano pop ballad “Lookin’ 4 Luv” and the euphoric rocker “Just For You.” Besides Steven Tyler, also guesting on the album is musician/ producer Peter Vettese (Jethro Tull, Annie Lennox, Pet Shop Boys), singer-songwriter Paul Buchanan (Blue Nile), legendary songwriter Mark Spiro (Heart, Laura Branigan, Lita Ford), singer/producer/composer Tim Ellis, as well as longtime friends Gregory Darling, Justin Clayton, and Guy Pratt. Julian with Grant Ransom jointly produced the album. A renaissance man with various passions, Julian’s photography career has seen his exhibitions presented internationally with many outstanding reviews, not only for his premiere exhibition “Timeless” with the Morrison Hotel Gallery in 2010 (NYC) and recently in 2013 (Los Angeles), but also for his multiple showings during Art Basel Miami. He has worked extensively with 22 - HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY
U2, his brother Sean, and photographed his friend Charlene Wittstock, exclusively for Vogue, prior to her civil wedding to Prince Albert II of Monaco. His philanthropic pursuits have been equally significant to him, with extensive charitable work through his White Feather Foundation. But the love of, and need to express himself through, music has always been a constant. Everything Changes has all the hallmarks of Julian Lennon’s acclaimed classic lifestyle music, yet glows with tender wisdom gleaned from his many life explorations.
TRACK LISTING 1. Everything Changes (Lennon/Vettese) / 2. Someday (Lennon/Tyler/ Spiro/Frederiksen) / 3. Lookin’ 4 Luv (Lennon/Vettese) / 4. Hold On (Lennon/Darling) / 5. Touch the Sky (Lennon/Vettese) / 6. Invisible (Lennon/Buchanan) / 7. Just for You (Lennon/Spiro) / 8. Always (Lennon/Clayton) / 9. Disconnected (Lennon/Vettese/Spiro) / 10. Never Let You Go (Lennon/Chambers) / 11. Guess It Was Me (Lennon/ Vettese/Ellis/Ransom) / 12. In Between (Lennon/Spiro) / 13. Don’t Wake Me Up (Lennon/Darling) / 14. Beautiful (Lennon/Darling) For more information please contact Dawn Kamerling: The Press House, New York/Los Angeles/Nashville dawn@thepresshouse.com (646) 322-4903 www.thepresshouse.com. For further details of Julian’s work & collaborations, please go to: http://www.julianlennon.com http://www.julianlennon-photography.com http://www.whitefeatherfoundation.com https://twitter.com/JulianLennon https://www.facebook.com/julianlennonofficial
Julian Lennon Acclaimed songwriter Julian Lennon debuts his first album in 15 years. The exquisite Everything Changes is his finest collection poignant adult pop.
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Elvis Presley...
“It just offends so many that I would somehow look at that and say, ‘It’s useless, it’s meaningless, there is something more important. Because for most persons, success and money and fame are the things that really make life worthwhile, and so you don’t just dismiss that,’” - Sister Hart
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And His Influence On The Beloved Nun He Kissed Yes, nun - the kind who lives in convents and dresses in habits. God certainly DOES work in mysterious ways.
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ruth or fiction: you decide. Here’s the story.... An outrageously gorgeous and glamorous actress was living a life that most people wouldn’t even dare to include in their wildest dreams. Sister Dolores Hart was making hit movies, attending red-carpet events, smiling for the cameras and kissing iconic celebrities such as Elvis Presley. She also had a handsome man who longed to marry her and make her his own. But, then the most Awe-Provoking and Greatest Power of the universe beckoned, and Hart simply left Hollywood behind. You see, God had other plans for Sister Hart. And they had nothing to do with being an actress nor kissing Elvis.
So we see that once in a very GREAT while what seems like another incredulous ‘Hollywood fairy-tale’ ends up being the absolute truth. While most celebrities of her time (and today) would stand in lines longer than the entire Boulevard of the Stars to kiss Elvis, Sister Dolores Hart simply choose to close that door. She gave up the glitz and glamour for a life of prayer and complete devotion to God. But, she never gave up her God-given talent to entertain. That’s why Sister Hart is out “promoting” her new book “The Ear of the Heart.” This page-turner reads with fascination and purpose. There are few things the written word cannot describe, this book is one of them; it must be read to be understood. In her short movie star career, Sister Hart made ten movies. She probably could have had her hands imprinted on the infamous Hollywood Boulevard; she may have eventually won numerous awards. In God Is the Bigger Elvis,” a 2011 documentary film about actress Dolores Hart, none of these things make a difference in heaven. This IS indeed a true story. One that most certainly makes me think by Jenny Werth about things. A lot of things. HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY - 25
LOCKPORT A Movie For All Audiences...
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Being an independent filmmaker feels a lot like being an underdog. So does being a hockey fan in Buffalo, New York. But neither the filmmaker nor the Buffalonian ever gives up. Director Rick Page is bringing it all back home.
n an age of big budgets and larger-than-life special effects, audiences still long for the smaller scale: a realistic film with a compelling story that celebrates the banding-together of good-hearted, true-blooded Americans. Thankfully there are still filmmakers to match. Count among them Terri Melkonian, Rick Page, and Luke Schelhaas, whose indie film LOCKPORT will reacquaint us with a small town’s reliance on pride and community – teaming over in one Buffalo suburb’s hockey team. Produced by Melkonian, this gritty, moving sports film will take the audience through both hope and loss, clarity and confusion, forgiveness and love. By the end, you’ll wonder not only when you can move to a community with such strong ties, but when exactly you will feel that primal “need” we so often deny we actually need. Belief. Having grown up playing hockey in Western New York, LOCKPORT’s director, Rick Page, knows what it means to never give up. “The fan base in Western New York is huge,” says Page. “This is something everyone takes pride in, and it’s what I grew up with. When Buffalonians root for the Bills or the Sabres, what they’re really rooting for is the city itself. We root for Buffalo.” As fate would have it, another Buffalo native, Co-Producer Wick Irwin, joined the team in February. “Western New York has known disappointment,” says Irwin. From the bitter winters and loss of industry, to the controversial skate in the crease that resulted in the Buffalo Sabres second Stanley Cup defeat, “Buffalonians are true underdogs,” he says. “This, however, is where we draw strength.” Strength of character is an important theme in the story of LOCKPORT. “Ultimately what we want to do is entertain,” says producer and co-writer Luke Schelhaas. “To take the
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audience on an edgy, uplifting ride with this hockey team. And we’ve assembled a great team of hockey professionals to ensure that what we put on the screen is compelling and true-to-life. With every hockey sequence, we’re not just advancing through the hockey season, we’re advancing character and plot. Our lead is growing in character as he grows as a skater.” At its heart LOCKPORT, planned for a fall shoot, is a very human story about a young man facing some tough choices. How do you move on from tragedy? How do you forgive yourself? How do you live the life you want and not the one everyone else has picked out for you? “Those questions lie at the heart of this thing,” Schelhaas says. “Heart” is really what it’s all about for Melkonian, too. That, and the thrill of the game. Having never watched a hockey game in her life until LOCKPORT, she now counts herself a true fan. And she’s in good company. NHL ratings and ticket sales have never been better. “There is no doubt that people are hungry now more than ever for hockey,” says Patrick O’Brien Demsey, an actor connected with the project. “More people are paying more money to watch hockey this year than ever before. The proof is in the pudding: hockey is back in a big way, and we want to be a part of that.” Rick Page seconds that opinion. “Hockey is huge right now – in Southern California, Arizona – it’s not just the northern states. In many ways, this is a story that could take place anywhere,” says Page. “I chose to highlight characters who have real struggles, real hopes and dreams, who embody that spirit of ‘digging out of the snow’ at the end of a long winter and trying again. For me and for my life, that all began in LOCKPORT.”
Left to right, Producer Terri Melkonian, Director/Writer Rick Page, Writer/Producer Luke Schelhaas.
“With the advent of HD TVs, the sport of hockey is a lot easier to follow. It’s an exciting game that is highly compatible with the fast pace and adrenaline needs of the new generation. For those reasons, the fan base is growing and getting stronger by the minute, to which the latest NHL TV ratings can attest.” – Christian Lalonde, film & TV hockey consultant
The Q&A: Hollywood Weekly: How did you know that LOCKPORT was a film that you wanted to be involved with? Besides that it’s a great script... Can you explain what feeling(s) came over you after reading it? Terri Melkonian: I love stories about the underdog overcoming obstacles and finding triumph – I can relate to that on many levels. That type of story resonates with people – we’ve all been the underdog at some point in our lives and that experience shapes our character and makes us resilient. While I was looking for that type of story to tell in a movie, I was given the script of LOCKPORT by a friend. I started reading the script and couldn’t put it down. I called my friend right away and said I need to meet these writers. I met Rick and Luke at my studio office and instantly
realized these guys are the real deal. They were articulate, talented, and very passionate about their story – and they were good people. With faith in each other, we embarked on the journey to make our movie LOCKPORT together. HW: How do you feel this movie is going to affect people? Will they be moved? Will they be optimistic? TM: This movie gives us hope – showing the human spirit as strong and triumphant. All ages will be moved and inspired after watching this film. It helps us cope with life’s disparities and inspires us to push forward. It’s exciting, suspenseful, and action-packed – it lifts you up. HW: How would you describe your partners, writer/ director Rick Page and writer/producer Luke Schelhaas? TM: Rick Page is the quintessential director – an awardHOLLYWOOD WEEKLY - 27
winning filmmaker and member of the Directors Guild of America. He literally can do it all. Having worked his way up from camera and cinematography over the past 19 years, he understands the technical side better than any director I’ve known. He’s also very creative and has a great artistic vision. I have complete confidence in his abilities to lead and direct. Luke Schelhaas is a WGA writer with extensive credits. He is currently a writer and co-executive producer on the critically acclaimed show “The Good Wife.” He is truly gifted when it comes to story and character. I’m so proud to be working with these talented guys. HW: Rick, what compels you to tell this story, and what inspired you to come up with the idea? Rick Page: The unique journey we each take in this world is something that’s always inspired me – how people relate to one another in life and help each other along. And I think that’s at the core of this film: that ultimately we can’t do it alone; we all need someone or maybe some thing in one way or another, no matter what the goal may be. I want to tell a story about how the greatest lessons in life are the ones we learn when we aren’t even looking. HW: You’ve been developing this story for quite some time now; what’s been your journey in making the dream a reality? RP: I’ve been very fortunate to work in the film industry for 19 years, making a career in camera and extending that set experience to other roles as well. When you learn on the front
lines like I have, that’s the best experience you could hope for. Working with filmmakers from all parts of the spectrum has been incredibly enriching for me. I’ve been exposed to such a variety of projects, around the world and close to home, and I’ve learned it takes four things to make a picture successful: time, money, experience, and teamwork. You cut corners in one of those areas, you’re sunk. For Luke and for myself, it’s been so important to stay true to the story, be economically responsible, maintain production value, and pay attention to detail. And when we found Terri, it made the perfect connection to really propel us forward. It’s this type of shared vision that will make every aspect of LOCKPORT a success. HW: Why will non-hockey players find this film of interest? TM: I have to admit, I didn’t know anything about hockey until I read this script. But by the end of the story, I couldn’t wait to watch a hockey game. It’s cleverly written so that a novice as I can understand and appreciate the sport and respect the athleticism of its players. But the movie isn’t just about hockey. While it meets all the hallmarks of an exciting sports film, LOCKPORT is really about an incredibly gifted high school athlete and son of a legend who is haunted by his past and torn about his future. He’s struggling with the pressures of celebrity, family, and the expectations of the people around him. He’s at a crossroads – where the legacy of his father and the hope of this small town are about to collide. www.terrimelentertainment.com www.lockport-themovie.com
“Hockey is mainstream because it is relatable. Our players are getting more visible because of social media, and the more visibility that hockey has now, the more people see that the players are just normal, average guys giving everything they have to be successful.” – Nelson Emerson, player development for the Los Angeles Kings
Director Rick Page
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Photo by Wayne Upton From left to right: Co-Producer Barry Alexander, Director Rick Page, Producer Terri Melkonian, Writer/Producer Luke Schelhaas
Meet a Powerhouse Like No Other, Producer Terri Melkonian
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by Jenny Werth
eldom does anyone step into Hollywood and create the kind of stir that is the daily mix for producer Terri Melkonian. And for a myriad of reasons.... What initially comes to mind is Terri’s incredible work ethic coupled with her undeniable passion for success. Not only success, but, rather, a form of extreme diligence that only a superstar could ever even dream of possessing. Sound over-the-top? If so, you’ve not met Terri. You’ve not observed her saunter (with a radiant smile) from one ‘seemingly impossible’ project to the next. And the 30 - HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY
next. And, again, the next. This is a woman who walks into a room full of mountainous problems, and within hours creates a brand new platform of organization headed toward plateaus of calm stardom. And, she does this without a hint of concern, nor a doubt in her creative mind. She accomplishes whatever she sets her mind to: period. Plus, she does so sans any dramatic “Hollywood-attitude” of heightened ego. Terri
simply is who she is: a humble powerhouse. Or, as one of her work associates explains, “a rockstar.” But, don’t underestimate her power. For being called humble is not symbolic of being timid nor weak. Quite the opposite. For Terri, being ‘humble,’ is simply the platform from which she genuinely shines. Terri does not need a fan-base of justification. She does not seek a crowd of people to make her feel worthy. She epitomizes a true star for one simple reason: she is that star. That is why her name pops up time and again in wonderful productions, such as the upcoming sports action film LOCKPORT, a story about overcoming obstacles and finding triumph (www. lockport-themovie.com). And she does her job as simply as others
hold open a door. Inherent in Terri is this unusual quality to make every second of her day worthwhile. Every last second. From morning to night, her brilliant mind is buzzing- how to solve any problem from A to Z. How to make anything smooth from 1 to 100. Observe her at at TERRIMEL Entertainment headquarters and you’ll find her jetting between meetings, quorums, coffees, dinners, lunches and everywhere else she can spare a moment. I cannot say she holds the answer to everything; rather, I say if you seek a leader who will rally you to the finish line, then you need look no further. Terri Erbabian-Melkonian. Done.
The Exclusive Interview Q: What have the last few years been like for you?
A: To be frank, the life of an independent producer is full of peaks and valleys. If you don’t have incredible passion and drive for what you choose to do as well as a strong belief in yourself, you can’t withstand this rollercoaster ride of life. You are working 24/7, if not physically then mentally, until your film is made and delivered. My goal when I started was to build a “rockstar” team of exemplary people. During my 15 year studio career, working mostly for the entertainment giant Universal, I had the opportunity to meet and work with some of the most talented and honorable people in the industry, who became my friends. My wish was to one day create an artistic haven for filmmakers where we can respect and share our unique knowledge and talents and together create something great. And that refuge became TERRIMEL Entertainment. I was humbled by the quality of people who wanted to join me in this endeavor and those who just simply wanted to help – I will forever be grateful to them and will do everything I can to achieve success for us all.
Q:
How do you maintain the energy and belief in yourself to create and dream with such incredible enthusiasm?
A: I have to believe in myself before asking anyone else to. I can count on me. I’ve always been the type who doesn’t like to waste a minute. I don’t procrastinate. If I have a goal or dream, I prepare then go for it – I have the same drive whether I’m working for myself or for another company. What’s the worst that can happen, I fail? I would rather give it absolutely everything I’ve got and fail then wonder what would have happened if I tried. The fear of failure is paralyzing and I’m not afraid.
Q:
Are there any key people who have influenced you on your journey? Why?
A: When I started on this road almost two years ago, I was all alone. I’ve always relied on myself to achieve and get things done Producer Terri Melkonian and this time wasn’t any different. I’d met a studio executive a short time before this who I was so impressed by. He was incredibly bright with the most positive nature of anyone I had met – the type of leader you always want to be around. I remember visiting his studio for a PGA screening one holiday evening, driving through its beautiful ornate gates. The beauty of the tall and elegantly decorated Christmas tree, brightly lit along with the trees on its impeccable grounds literally took my breath away – this place felt so magical. After chatting about my new venture over coffee, he was very supportive and encouraging. When I said I would love to have my home at Paramount and asked if I can rent an office, he made it happen instantly. Randy Baumburger’s (President of the Studios at Paramount) kindness and belief in me, when I needed it most, kick-started my journey and I will forever be grateful to him. And I would highly recommend other producers to utilize the Paramount facility – it is the very best lot and they will absolutely love it here!
Q: Is it possible to “make it” in a town as hard as Hollywood?
A: Yes, it certainly is – but you have to know what you’re doing and be tenacious. Besides working in this business for years, as an independent HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY - 31
“We think Celebrities Are Living The Fantasy Life We Wish We Could Live - But In Reality, They Are Not Much Different Than Us.”
producer I took an incredible amount of time learning every aspect of making a film – from A through Z. You have to truly understand the business, and I emphasize business. Once you find that great script, which in itself is difficult, the truly hard work begins. As a producer, my main job is to sell. Who is my audience and how will I sell our story to them? How do I sell the script to the actors I want attached, and to their team? Once we have key talent, I have to find a reputable sales agency to partner with who can best sell my film to the foreign buyers – and each foreign territory has their film preference so you have to adjust accordingly. When I receive sales estimates, I include it in the film’s presentation package and take it to investors. During this time, I also work closely with the writers making sure we have a great script that’s also marketable, then I break it down with the line producer to create our production budget and we work with our director in creating a shooting schedule. By this time, I have already researched the available tax incentives and rebates offered by various states and countries and decided with my team where our production will be housed. I also begin meeting with studios and mini-majors to secure a theatrical distribution deal. The foreign value of our film will be dependent upon the amount of promotion and theatre screens we get in North America – so the distribution deal is important. My job is also to protect and mitigate the risk of the investor and I look for all ways to bring “free” money for our film. This includes securing financial incentives and also going after product integration money from sponsors who want to advertise their product in our film. It takes a lot of work to be an indie producer – so arm yourself with knowledge, surround yourself with a great core team, prepare, and stay tenacious to make it!
They also experience emotional pain, self-doubt, work and financial stress. They live just as fragile a life as everyone else. We shouldn’t put them on a pedestal – and they themselves don’t want to be placed on a pedestal. Their polarizing effect seems to wane when a flaw in their persona or life is displayed by the media and they are not seen as that immortal being to fans. But then again, I guess we all want to fantasize. Isn’t that why we watch movies – to escape from the reality of life that we know for two hours or so?
Q: How do you stay so lovely and real?
A: To stay real, I relate to my core family values which keep me grounded. My greatest inspiration comes from my son. I’m raising him to be a confident and compassionate person who will respect and value people, especially women. I love being around him and teaching him to believe, aspire and achieve. I surround myself with good people – my family and friends. I’m happiest when I’m with them and that’s when life feels real and wonderful to me.
Q:
Why is the world obsessed with ‘celebrity’ and Hollywood?
A: We think celebrities are living the fantasy life we wish we could live – but in reality, they are not much different than us. 32 - HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY
CEO of TERRIMEL Entertainment, Terri Melkonian
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Photo by Larry Busacca_Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions
Alan Cumming and Scarlett Johansson
2013 Tony Awards Green Room
Fully furnished by none other than the chic and celebrated FENDI Casa
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Sundance film festival 2013- Photo Credit: Jessica Miglio
Photo by Larry Busacca_Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions
Matthew Morrison and Barrett Foa
Photo by Larry Busacca_Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions
Sundance film festival 2013- Photo Credit: Jessica Miglio Photo by Larry Busacca_Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions
Jake Gyllenhaal and Matthew Broderick
Cuba Gooding Jr. and Anna Kendrick
Jane Krakowski and Jesse Tyler Ferguson
Gorgeous Celebs make Fendi Casa Furnishings even more beautiful! The exciting 67th Annual Tony Awards Green Room, fully furnished by FENDI Casa, at Radio City Music Hall on June 9, 2013 in New York City HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY - 35
O U T I N H O L LY W O O D
The
Dita Von Teese and Doris Raymond Stills from Episode #1 - 1 Vintage is the New Black The Way We Wore Courtesy of The Way We Wore
Daniela Corte, Jill Roberts and Ricardo Rodriguez Los Angeles Confidential and Daniela Corte present the Leggings Bar Launch in Los Angeles at the W W Los Angeles-Westwood Nelson Blanton of StyleHousePro
Sherri Gonzales & Tracey Sanchez Bellevue Square Beauty Event Bellevue, WA Asmaa El-Ghazali 36 - HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY
Lisa Vanderpump 28th Annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE- PHYTO “ I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter” Lounge WireImage
Jimmy Hendrix Hendrix 70: Live At Woodstock Regent Theater, Westwood Hendrix Photography
Scene
by Niki Shadrow Snyder
Tehrrek Fitzpatrick, Jeremy Dicker, Harry Hoopis Grand Opening, Dicker Fitzpatrick Offices, Santa Monica Dicker Fitzpatrick Offices, Santa Monica David Frey Photography
The Sustainable Business Council’s Industry Achievement Awards Steering Committee. Location: Lexus Santa Monica Title of event: Second Annual SBC Industry Achievement Awards Photographer: Steve Glenn, CEO, LivingHomes and Chair, SBC Board of Directors
Aimee Rickabus (CEO, Bliss Nutritional Sciences) & Kaycee Stroh Secret Room Events Honoring Golden Globe Nominees SLS Hotel, Beverly Hills Eddie Sakaki
Blake Mycoskie The Los Angeles Times Travel Show The L.A. Convention Center LA Times Images
John Arguelles, AnnaLynne McCord, Wolfgang Puck, Lloyd Klein and Natalie Cole Lloyd Klein’s Private Birthday Celebration Spago Beverly Hills Todd Oren HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY - 37
Summer haves ✤ must-haves
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Va-Va-voom! Liquid Metal jewelry makes for a fierce head-turner. The designs are intricate and modern, yet romantic in their contour. Make your summer entrances one the crowd won’t soon forget. Liquidmetaljewelry.com
Stars & Stripes Shorts The good ol’ red, white and blue never goes out of style or loses its allure. These mini-shorts make a statement without having to utter one word. Bloomingdales.com
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Oh yes, days in the sun require a secure I-Phone snap case. Chat away with ease, and eat some cupcakes- just like the case says! vivitar.com
A summery-solution to any last-minute event. This darling Skipper Dress by vineyard vines is the way to go when you’re in a rush to meet your friends for brunch. vineyardvines.com To make your summer nights vibrant, put on this Bvlgari charm. It compliments any outfit, even your bikini. Bvlgari.com.
THIS is the dress to impress! It seems every celeb has taken to the Junk Food Clothing line, and we’re starting to understand why. This Long Live Rock Maxi Dress is a sure-hit!! junkfoodclothing.com
Spending hours at the beach may provide you with a daily dose of Vitamin D, but it can also do a number on your hair. Peter Lamas Naturals Wheatgrass Purifying Shampoo and Conditioner is the perfect duo to detox strands and remove impurities. Swim without fear! peterlamas.com
It’s the “new” version of the ItsyBitsy-Yellow-(non-polka-dot bikini,) and, we LOVE it. This sizzling ‘Hipkini’ yellow number by none other than Hipanemausa will take his breath away AND promise that you have a lot of attention while lounging by the pool. And if yellow isn’t your color, it comes in blue and pink as well. Hipanemausa.com or shopbop.com
Strolling the sand in summer is an absolute must, but not if it’s going to burn your pedicured feet! These Crocs sandals are the ultimate in footcomfort for days in the sun. Crocs.com
Vivitar Underwater Digital Camcorder This digital camcorder allows you to film the family underwater on your summer get-away! Create your own movies with this high definition, 4X digital zoom, and 2.4” preview screen device. vivitar.com
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Gayle Carson “Our firm is different than most, the people here have a deep commitment to the community.� - Gayle Carson, discusses her views on the importance of going the extra mile for clients and building life-long relationships
by Meagan Sargent
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Meaningful Law I
f you want to make a meaningful connection with your clients, then you have to be a part of the community they live in; that has been attorney Gayle Carson’s motto for the past 25 years. She is a resident of San Pedro and is active in the Long Beach Bar Association, San Pedro Assistance League, the Cabrillo Beach Yacht Club, and helps the Law Firm of Bezaire, Ledwitz & Borncamp in supporting the Doris Topsy Elvord Academy, a unique charter school in north Long Beach led by Marvin Smith a former National Football League Player.
“Our firm is different than most,” Carson explains, “the people here have a deep commitment to the community.” Firm president, Samuel B. Ledwitz, J.D., LL.M., a former educator, is the chairman of the board at the Doris Topsy Elvord Academy. Senior Paralegal, Devona Chiles, also runs the Unity of Life Foundation, a charity dedicated to helping impoverished families of Long Beach with the essentials of life. Gayle Carson received her B.A. from Ohio State University in International Studies, and then went on to study law at the Cleveland Marshall College of Law. She owned her own Estate Planning and Probate Administration Law Firm in Cleveland, Ohio for more than 25 years. After selling her Ohio practice, she moved to Naples, Florida, and became licensed as an attorney in Florida in 2005. Throughout the years, Carson has accomplished the unimaginable and is now licensed in three states: Ohio, Florida, and now California. “Our area of practice is much more personal than most other areas of the law,” Carson stresses, “we deal with people’s families, their life’s work and how they want to transfer it to their loved ones.” It can be difficult work, but her decades of experience and commitment to the community give Gayle the ability to relate to her clients, set them at ease, and begin the process of making sure her clients estates will go to the right people at the right time and are protected from needless court fees and taxes. With their law firms practice solely focused on trusts, probate, estate administration and estate litigation, the attorneys are afforded the unique ability to build life-long relationships with their clients. “We like to see our clients every three years for a free review of their documents,” Carson explains, “this lets us know if everything is good working order and up to date, and if they are not, then we have the opportunity to fi x it.” Gayle has a unique perspective on the importance of building a life long relationship with a client. She manages the Long Beach office of Bezaire, Ledwitz, and Borncamp, and is also the firm’s Senior Probate Attorney. She says that every time she starts working on a probate case, it’s almost always caused by one of a few things, “typically, someone failed to do any estate planning, or they had their documents drafted and never saw their attorney again.” This simple mistake can easily cost a family $20,000 in probate fees alone. Their firm’s singular focus allows them to attract the best possible attorneys to handle all types of complex estate issues. The firm has three California State Bar Certified Specialists in Estate Planning, Trust and Probate law. This designation is held by less than 2% of all California attorneys. Few law firms have a solid track record along with a combination of education and experience. From estate planning, litigation and administration to veteran benefits, medi-cal planning and conservatorships, the practice has a depth of expertise that honestly and truly brings a whole new meaning to ‘going the extra mile.’ For additional information on Gayle Carson or Bezaire, Ledwitz & Borncamp, visit: http://SmartEstatePlans.com HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY - 41
Cheers to the Champs!
Miami HEAT celebrate their champion
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It’s victory again for the Miami HEAT! Recently in Miami, the Miami HEAT beat the San Antonio Spurs 95 to 88, becoming NBA Champions for the second consecutive year! After the win, the Miami HEAT players celebrated their victory in the locker room by popping 100 rare magnum bottles of Moët Ice Impérial champagne. This private celebration marked the first time that magnums of Moët Ice Imperial - the world’s first champagne specially created to be enjoyed on ice - have ever been opened! Players spent time in the locker room using Moët Ice Imperial as a drink and pouring it all over each other in celebration. Cheers to the championship.
Lebron James & Ray Allen
ship with Moët Ice Impérial! Chantelle, Gabrielle Union, and Sannaa Lathan celebrating the victory
Terrance J.
Chris Bosh & Lebron James
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