Cheerleaders in High Heels

Miley Cyrus versus Catherine Zeta Jones - mash-up heaven

2010-11-26T01:02:00.000-08:00

We are the remix, social-media, put-it-all-out-there YouTube generation. Music remixes have often been clever and even brilliant. Now, with the addition of video mastering in the hands of enthusiasts on desktop computers, the whole video mash-up universe has exploded.

The good news is that some good quality work is being made. Better news is an international competition for high-quality mash-ups with fantastic exposure for the winners. When you take a look at Miley Cyrus remixed and mashed with Catherine Zeta Jones, the promise is evident. This is not just skill on the controls but a crafted and creative "new" work (watch here).

We accept Faithless as masters at combining old with new, and many dance and trance DJs as modern music creators. Now you get the chance to remix video and music to a new level.

Lip Service and The Sad Decline of the BBC

2010-11-17T08:34:00.000-08:00

Ruta Gedmintas has been a stand-out in every role she's played, at least all the ones I've seen so far. Terrific in The Tudors, surprising in Spooks and laconically brilliant in Lip Service. Yet the BBC decided to waste this stunning actress in that recent prurient kowtow to the Daily Mail.

With a twitch of her mouth or body, or a flick of her head, Ruta puts most of the soap-raised, shrieking-shouters of TV to shame. There is intensity in her acting, yet it is crafted skilfully in her demeanour. When a part calls for explosive action or intense emotion, Ruta can unfurl the fury with devastating effect.

According the BBC blurb, Lip Service is a "funny, irreverent and moving drama series" - so I guess that is their way of saying they have tried to be comical, artistic and dramatic all at once. And apart from Ruta, what a failure the series has been. This is not to decry the other actresses who have often shone, nor to demean the guys who had token roles at best.

Most playwrights would hate to hear the words "cardboard characters" and that is certainly a criticism that can be aimed at Lip Service. The worst crime, however, is the abject fawning to "middle England", aka the Daily Mail. Let's have a Jack the Lad who sleeps around, so loses the honest and respectable girl. Let's have an upright citizen who does everything to uphold family values and, even if she's a lesbian, we'll call her Sam so we know she's a cipher for a 'proper' policeman.

Ruta, as Frankie, has the most work to do with the limp plot and, of course, does it brilliantly. There are stupid bits to contend with, however. Just when you thought the Daily Mail editors - sorry, the script writers - were going to have some fun with an uptight, homophobic male boss, Frankie and Cat are portrayed as stupid 12-year-olds who burn down a building, thus upholding the 'values' of the boss.

The basic message of Lip Service is two-fold. Uphold the uptight, bigoted, middle-England values at all costs, so therefore portray lesbians as unreliable, troubled, scatty and/or damaged. (But be sure to include some 'sexy' scenes to appeal to the public-virtue, private-vice commonweal - see below.) Second is to take Frankie's character and the most believable back-story and then, in a series of cheap shots, show us that being disadvantaged and/or troubled and/or abandoned by society is, in fact, your own fault! Astonishing! Well, astonishingly bad!

The use of juvenile sexual thrills in Lip Service and The Tudors previously reveals the extent of the dumbing down of the BBC. But then the BBC are allowed to get away with murder, brutality, incest and child molestation before the 9pm watershed in Eastenders so it's no great surprise that Lip Service was so bad. Thanks, though, to Ruta for being so good.

Lead role in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo goes to Rooney Mara

2010-08-16T23:19:00.000-07:00

Rooney Mara has won the lead role in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. Sony announced that the younger sister of Kate Mara will play Lisbeth Salander in David Fincher's American adaptation of the film series. Shooting begins next month in Sweden.


Rooney Mara

The film is scheduled for release on December 21, 2011. Mara agreed to terms when she and other young actresses signed on to tests that Fincher and producer Scott Rudin have conducted over past weeks. The deal includes an option for two sequels that will cover The Girl Who Played With Fire and The Girl Who Kicked The Hornet's Nest, the second and third books in the Millennium Trilogy by Stieg Larsson.

Mara is a strong match: she is the right age and looks similar to the descriptions of Salander. Rooney has an advantage of recently working with Fincher and Rudin on The Social Network. Rooney also appeared in Youth in Revolt and the 2010 remake of A Nightmare on Elm Street.

Speculation has been widespread over recent months about the possibilities for a suitable actress to play the powerful, troubled, iconic hacker and investigator Lisbeth Salander. Various names have been mentioned, including Scarlett Johansson, Natalie Portman, Carey Mulligan and Ellen Page.

However, Fincher had focused his testing process on discovering an actress who he felt was more like the slight, early-20s Salander. Mara tested along with Sophie Lowe, Sarah Snook and French actress Lea Seydoux (more to follow on those actresses).

Lucie Jones is styled for success

2010-02-12T21:25:00.000-08:00

Select Model Management is a great name and has become one of the UK's leading model agencies. Lucie Jones has been added to the ‘select’ list of models at Select and we wish her the best. However it seems there are two possible paths for Lucie now. Or can she do more?

With a big voice that displays passion and power, tone and control, Lucie could follow in the footsteps of Carly Smithson and carve out a very successful career in music. On the other hand Select have an impressive track record in developing careers for Lily Donaldson, Agyness Deyn and Daisy Lowe.

A third possibility is that Lucie Jones (photo right) can do both. Many singers have also become models, and models have become singers. Grace Jones and Taylor Momsen have both achieved dual success, in very different ages and different ways - and both have achieved success as actresses as well.

The possible futures for Lucie prove, again, that Simon Cowell is wrong with his anti-girl 'phase' of the past two years. Simon dismissed Lucie in a way that left him with zero credibility as a judge on X Factor, yet it seems he is the greater loser.

As the second photograph (left) by Kristin Vicari shows, Lucie can bring power and passion to the catwalk as well as the recording studio. Go Lucie! On all fronts!

Beyonce sets new Grammy Award record with 6 wins

2010-02-07T08:06:00.000-08:00

Beyonce looked stunning in her Sasha Fierce persona on stage at the Grammy Awards 2010 ceremony in Los Angeles in January. By the end of the show Beyonce had achieved another record in her stellar career.

During her performance Beyonce (photo) wore a black leather mini-dress by Versace Atelier composed of cut leather pieces and featuring a metallic enriched bustier. When not on stage Beyonce chose a stunning Giorgio Armani Privé chain metal mini-dress in silver and gold, encrusted with Swarovski crystals. Fierce and elegant in turn, the style statements were as powerful as her music.

In the running for an impressive 10 awards, Beyonce collected 6 and achieved the most wins by a female in one night at the Grammy Awards. The wins were:

Best Contemporary R&B Album: I Am… Sasha Fierce — Beyonce
Best Female R&B Vocal Performance: Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It) — Beyonce
Best Female Pop Vocal Performance: Halo — Beyonce
Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance: At Last — Beyonce
Two songwriter awards: Song of the Year and Best R&B Song: Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It) — Thaddis Harrell, Beyonce Knowles, Terius Nash & Christopher Stewart (performed by Beyonce)

See further coverage of Beyonce and the Grammy Awards at http://clik4music.com

Models of the Year - 2009 and maybe a bit more

2010-01-23T08:42:00.000-08:00

Lots of magazines, newspapers and websites have listed their Top Models of 2009 and a few have also suggested Top Models of the Decade.

There are a few names that appear regularly and we agree - Miranda Kerr, Chanel Iman, Lara Stone. Of course we must also mention Heidi Klum as both a model and entrepreneur, not to mention a "model mum".

There have been two models who capture our attention on a regular basis although not because they are making appearances for famous brands. While that is great for them and their career - and probably the brand - they also stand out for an intensity or characterisation that sets them apart.

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley (photo left) has achieved an enormous amount in just a few years and it seems Karlie Kloss (photo right) is destined for the same.

Neither one is a blond bombshell or an angular waif. Both bring their own character to the photoshoots, adding a touch of appealing grit rather than the bland plastic posing of so many other "top" models.

Let's hope the new decade is kind to both.

Alexandra Burke makes a big impression

2010-01-23T08:08:00.000-08:00

Alexandra Burke has signed a five album recording deal with Epic Records, valued at £3.5 million. She is working on the U.S. version of her album Overcome, due to be released on 12 March 2010. Alexandra and RedOne have mentioned on Twitter that they were working on new tracks for the American launch.

Meanwhile, promotional touring in Europe is assisted by a specially customised coach (photo) for Alexandra. Bad Boys featuring Flo Rida debuted at number-one in the UK, becoming Alexandra's second consecutive number-one single.

Alexandra became the European record holder for single sales over a period of twenty-four hours when her debut single Hallelujah sold 105,000 copies in one day. The song went on to become the top-selling song of the year on the BBC Radio 1 Chart Show.

Sales of Hallelujah passed 1 million by 9 January 2009, making Burke the first British female solo artist to sell a million copies of a single in the UK. Alexandra's new single Broken Heels was released on 18 January 2010 and the video was shot in Los Angeles on 22 and 23 November 2009.

New Twilight fashion range from BB Dakota

2010-01-23T07:48:00.000-08:00

A director of photography during the filming of the first Twilight movie made a decision with unexpected benefits for a clothing company. The planned brown hoodie for Kristen Stewart was rejected for a scene as the color clashed with her hair.

A last minute dash to a clothing store led to Bella wearing a BB Dakota cargo jacket in the movie. Teens decided they liked the look and so when the item became a big hit for the clothing company they renamed it the "Twilight Jacket".

Now BB Dakota have a new collection planned to includes plaid shirts, skinny cords and hoodies, all revolving around the still-in-demand jacket and the outdoor style of Twilight's vampire-loving heroine.

Entertainer Of The Year Award for Taylor Swift

2009-12-29T14:35:00.000-08:00

Associated Press, the prestigious organisation for Newspaper editors and broadcast producers, has chosen Taylor Swift as the Entertainer Of The Year for 2009.

The 20-year-old crossover star was surprised at the award: "I am so honored and so excited. This was so unexpected, and I could not be more grateful."

It has also been revealed that Taylor came in a very close second to Lady GaGa in the MTV Woman of the Year countdown for 2009. Some commentators have said if GaGa had not achieved such success then Taylor would have scooped the MTV award easily.

Taylor Swift has an impressive success rate, gathering 6 American Music Awards and 3 Teen Choice Awards out of the 48 she has won already. Taylor has also received 62 other nominations, an astonishing number for one so young.

Her second album Fearless held the #1 spot on the Billboard chart for three weeks in 2009 and at one point had eight songs on the Hot 100 chart. After an impressive acoustic performance at the Grammys with friend Miley Cyrus, Swift embarked on a sold-out 52-city North American tour. The good news continued with album of the year at the Country Music Association Awards and artist of the year at the American Music Awards.

Taylor has been quoted as saying she has exciting plans for the future, so is clearly not resting on her laurels: "The second that I put out Fearless, the moment that album came out and I was done with it, I started writing for my next album. I love to plan 20 steps ahead of myself, trying to top what I've done last.”

Miley Cyrus recording Poison classic

2009-12-29T13:03:00.000-08:00

In a feature post on her blog, Miley Cyrus has included details about working on Poison’s 80’s rock ballad Every Rose Has Its Thorn.

Miley’s mom Tish Cyrus is quoted on the blog as saying: “Every Rose is one of Miley’s all-time favorite songs and she is really excited about cutting it.”

Miley is quoted on the blog as well: “The song is a classic and one of my favorites. Bret Michaels and Poison was my very first concert and introduced me to rock and roll.

“I recently heard the song play and everyone around me starting singing along. It’s a song that everyone knows and loves. I feel like the way the music industry is today really shelters kids and they aren’t exposed to songs as honest and real as this one.”

Photo (right) shows Miley Cyrus with Bret Michaels of Poison.

Miley’s first concert experience – other than seeing dad Billy Ray Cyrus onstage – was watching Poison perform in Nashville. A rep has confirmed Miley recorded the song in New York and that she’s been in the studio with Michaels – along with other producers – putting her own spin on the ’80s ballad.

The blog also quotes Miley saying: “Bret and I had a great time in the studio together just hanging out and making music. It was so surreal to have him sit down with his acoustic guitar and walk me through Every Rose and then give me the opportunity to add my own flare and edge to it. Bret is so passionate about music and it shows.” And rumor is that Michaels might even dust off his blue rose guitar to add some licks on the track.

“I think it is such a rad collaboration because it shows that two artists that seem so different on the outside can come together and organically create something that we are both proud of. I look forward to finishing the song in LA with Bret and John Shanks who is producing,” the teen star said.

Miley has sold more than 15 million albums worldwide and her three albums have all gone platinum or gold in many countries around the world: Meet Miley Cyrus, Breakout and Hannah Montana: The Movie. Miley’s most recent single The Climb is certified 2 x Platinum in America.

Gorgeous at 17 - Miley Cyrus and maybe a new tattoo

2009-12-05T00:47:00.000-08:00

As you might expect, millionairess Miley Cyrus had a big bash for her 17th birthday. But did she also get a peek-a-boo tattoo?

Miley was photographed during a visit to Miami for some R&R at the Fontainebleu Hotel after recently wrapping up the tour with brother Trace and his band Metro Station.

Miley looked fabulous on the tour, head-banging with the best and developing into a wholesome rock-chick (which for most Europeans is a contradiction in terms, but not in the US of A).

While sunbathing at South Beach the 17-year-old raised her hands up and revealed what may be a new tattoo.

It says Just breathe and is clearly visible when Miley wears a bikini. Whether it’s permanent is unknown, but Trace recently added extensive ink to his own tattoo fetish.

Miley is currently dating Australian actor and former Neighbours star Liam Hemsworth, 19, who she met while filming the Disney movie The Last Song.

Top Models of the Year are soon to be announced

2009-11-27T13:10:00.000-08:00

There are many attractive models and thousands of images every week to aid our "enjoyment" of the promotions and marketing the models help to beautify.

There are many favourites. Sports Illustrated special issues, Kate Moss in a 10-page Vogue feature, Moscow/Paris/New York fashion week.

Yet year after year, one company and their models produce fantastic events and images.

Victoria's Secret and Heidi Klum (photo, top right), along with Doutzen Kroes (photo, left) and Miranda Kerr (photo, bottom) portray positive, confident and happy women.

We reckon there's enough anguish and despair on tv - and that's just the reality shows - so the bright and cheerful tone of Victoria's Secret is a very welcome influence in our troubled times.

The shows and sets may be out of this world, yet this is no moody, artsy company, given to surly models and inaccessible music. At Victoria's Secret there is fun, joy and color.

The items of clothing may be tiny or deliberately flimsy, yet they speak loudly of health and vitality, in and out of the bedroom.

Just as Muse can lift rock music from the doldrums with their driving and infectious songs, so Victoria's Secret inject style and cheeky humour with their fashion work. That tone is so welcome in these days of rampant political correctness - a perfect antidote to the grey and drab news that fills the radio, tv and web.

Three cheers for gorgeous fashion and fun-loving style.

Go check the Victoria's Secret website now - you could brighten your Christmas while you're there.

Lucie Jones restores balance via retail therapy to banish nasty X Factor scandal

2009-11-21T08:02:00.000-08:00

After the shocking voting scandal and complicity of the judges, it's great to see Lucie Jones has her feet firmly on the ground - almost.

Those new semi-goth ankle straps give the girl a lift - literally and figuratively. And she looks great, so good on her.

What better way to get over the judges conspiring against her on X Factor than to zoom to a few fave fashion shops. Lucie had a great attitude on the flawed tv show and, as the pictures show, she has carried it through to ordinary life. Make the best of what you've got and - we're happy to note - it looks like Lucie's doing just that. Lucky fella.

We're happy that Lucie looks and sounds relaxed about life in the interviews we've seen and read.

And we're also happy that jealous Chery Cole and foolish Danni Minogue are looking very unhappy. They contributed to booting Lucie out of the competition. But they also put the atrocious Jedward into the X Factor finals, which stupidity is coming back to bite them soundly on their bums.

Watch - if you must. But DON'T VOTE. Don't give the corrupt tv show any more money.

Twilight sequel New Moon breaks box office records - and sends our hearts a-flutter

2009-11-21T07:04:00.000-08:00

Can I be forgiven my passion over a thrilling film about eternal triangles, forbidden love, barely-disguised teen lust and, Spike and Angel to the contrary, one of the most tasty boys-into-ferocious-men storylines.

Okay, so there has been a heap of hype. A multitude of media coverage. Yet through it all the true believers stayed, well, true. So true that we camped out in thousands to see the latest on-screen portrayal of our hidden secrets on the big screen - at MIDNIGHT. Well, shortly therafter.

3,514 cinemas ran midnight screenings, hauling in a chunky $26.3 million of our discretionary fetish spending. Did I mention Robert Pattinson, the one who's all icy and kool as the arctic, and Taylor Lautner who's all macho and, well, strong as a bear-wolf-hunk thing? And of course Kristen Stewart who we all want to be. Sort of. We mainly want to be where she is - in the middle. With tears if need be. We'll hack it.

It's only a movie, you say. They're only actors. Ha! Ha ha, I say! Truth is, we know that. But the hopes, aspirations, dreams, conflicts, love, trust, sacrifice and betrayal are all spinning in our heads, most days and most nights. Not as big as Bella. Not as torn as Eric. Not as self-sacrificing as Edward. But there, nonetheless. New Twilight, new New Moon, new interpretation. Our inner lives, portrayed.

Which is why we LOVE to see it on the big screen. At midnight. Again and again.

Leona Lewis is The Voice of her generation

2009-11-20T10:54:00.000-08:00

Yes we have raved about Leona Lewis, almost from day one of her appearances on X Factor. Despite that show slumping to a terrible low, Leona has continued to inspire and impress as her voice reaches new heights and maturity.

Outstanding live performances are growing in number in Leona's career, perhaps none better than her ability to deliver breathtaking vocal control on Snow Patrol's Run. Below is Leona's contribution to the 2009 Children In Need appeal by the BBC in the UK:

Italian fashion designer praises Russian women

2009-11-01T13:13:00.000-08:00

According to one of Italy’s most sophisticated designers, Russian women are sexy, self-assured and stylish. Ennio Capasa claims that’s the image of a perfect woman, especially dressed by himself when he presented his collection at Russian Fashion Week.

The designer behind “Costume National” C’N’C brand praised Russian women for their striking external and internal beauty, which helped made his collection one of the most highly-anticipated events on the fashion calendar. In fact, it was packed to the point where there was almost no room to turn or move.

C’N’C has been inspired by music, cinema and nature in the past, yet Capasa told a press-conference in Moscow he’s recently changed his approach to fashion and is currently working on a new one from scratch.

“The Russian public now has a special identity and value for me,” Capasa said. “Italians and Russians share a common emotional link, that of art.”

Example photo by Aleksandr Azarov

Goth & Vampire & Heavy Metal & Gothic - the fashion revamp (sorry) goes on

2009-07-30T02:42:00.000-07:00

:: probably not a huge surprise that Topshop has released a "Horror Girl" range to tie in with the huge interest in all things vampire :: personally, we can't get enough of Twilight and True Blood and all the powerful women in those shows :: cast back a few years and we also had Witchblade and Buffy and the cross-over characters like Faith - you get the picture :: and here is Topshop's version of the style:

:: perhaps the huge success of female-fronted heavy metal bands has also had a positive influence on the fashion business, widening the scope away from metrosexual mall blandness :: Yay!

Twilight update - Rachelle Lefevre not happy about Eclipse casting

2009-07-30T01:22:00.000-07:00

Rachelle Lefevre, who has played the role of villainous vampire Victoria in the Twilight films so far, is apparently not happy about being dropped from the filming of Eclipse.

Lefevre is reportedly "stunned" to learn she would be replaced by Bryce Dallas Howard (see our previous post).

The actress has said she was happy with her contract with Summit and fully prepared to continue to honour it. Apparently her commitment to filming for Barney's Version is only ten days. Lefevre said: “Summit picked up my option for Eclipse... Given the length of time for the filming, never did I fathom I would lose the role over a ten-day overlap."

The star says she feels hurt by Summit's decision to move on without her, but nonetheless wishes the cast and crew only the very best.

The statement concluded: "I am greatly saddened that I will not get to complete my portrayal of Victoria for the Twilight audience. This is a story, a theatrical journey and a character that I truly love and about which I am very passionate. I will be forever grateful to the fan support and loyalty I’ve received."

A new “Victoria” for the third Twilight film

2009-07-29T08:39:00.000-07:00

Bryce Dallas Howard is to take on the role of Victoria in the third film of the Twilight saga. The studio want to roll out the films as fast as possible following the huge positive response from fans.

Due to the very tight production schedules of the Twilight films, with the start of Eclipse so close to finishing New Moon, plus other commitments, the change of actress has been announced.

Rachelle Lefevre played the part in the first two movies, the 2008 smash Twilight and the upcoming New Moon. Howard has been reported as saying she is thrilled to join the cast as vampire Victoria. Eclipse is expected to strongly anchor the success of the series in the movies.

28-year-old Bryce Dallas Howard (photo) is no stranger to blockbusters, with appearances in Spider-Man 3 and Terminator Salvation.

Eclipse is scheduled to begin shooting in Vancouver in August. Part two New Moon is due for release on November 20.

Is there a vampire role for Taylor Momsen on the horizon?

2009-07-29T03:49:00.000-07:00

Which vampire role is Taylor Momsen hoping to fill? She recently announced “I would eat a boy my age alive” and that she lives “a very adult life.”

The Gossip Girl star was talking more about dating than killing, but could not imagine dating anyone who is the same age as her. Although just a 16-year-old, Momsen plays a toughie in the popular teen drama, often involved in difficult “not yet a woman” storylines.

Along with some high profile modeling, Momsen has been recording with her band Pretty Reckless in New York.

"I live a very adult life," she recently told Teen Vogue. "What am I going to do, hang out with high school kids?”

In her model persona and party-girl lifestyle, Momsen is always stylish and focussed. Perhaps it is her nature that comes through, but she often tends towards the noir or goth style - which we love. So could Taylor be on the lookout for a killer role in one of the many vampire movies and tv shows? We hope so.

Meanwhile, it’s bad luck for the boys: “They are so much less mature than girls. I just can't relate to what they talk about - it seems so petty.” We’re not sure Taylor is ready for a Witches of Eastwick-style Jack Nicholson just yet, but we will watch developments with interest.

Another rising tennis Amazon wins first big title

2009-07-26T05:28:00.000-07:00

Andrea Petkovic won her first WTA title today with a 6-2 6-3 result against Ioana Raluca Olaru in the Nurnberger Gastein final in Austria. Prior to this win, Andrea had risen 280 places to slot 98 in the official world rankings since January 1st so is moving ever-upward in a stellar year. Olaru has risen 57 places to slot 66 in the same time.
Petkovic had previously won seven ITF singles titles and three ITF doubles titles. Born in Yugoslavia, Andrea attained German citizenship in 2001 and progressed to become the German national champion in December 2007. Coached by her father Zoran Petkovic, a former Yugoslavian Davis Cup player, Andrea first began playing tennis from 6 years old.

The win at Bad Gastein is great preparation for the upcoming US Open and the 21-year-old must be really pleased with 2009 so far. A right-hander with a two-handed backhand, at 5ft 11in (1.8m) Andrea is another impressive athlete in the women’s tennis tour.

Petkovic explains her win: "I played very well in the first set. I was hitting hard and putting a lot of pressure on Olaru with my serves and returns. In the second set I was fighting with myself because I thought I could really win this, and my nerves were a bit tough to deal with.” She went on to say it was a great moment in her career and she hoped to build on it.

Olaru had achieved some of her best wins this week on the way to her first singles final on the Tour, beating No.3 seed Sybille Bammer, No.6 seed Magdalena Rybarikova and No.1 seed Alizé Cornet. Ioana was philosophical about the loss: “I'm sorry about today - I wish I could have done more, but there's always next tournament."

Photo shows Andrea at the 2009 Australian Open in typical powerful pose.

Boozing with tits out - gutter journalism promotes UK decline

2009-07-26T02:47:00.000-07:00

There are many examples of how England (as once was) and now the UK is falling below the standards and quality of life of most developed nations. Education quality and achievement is at its lowest for hundreds of years. Health care is becoming one of the worst in developed Europe. And the homegrown tv is totally dominated by nasty soaps that glamorize fights, incest, rape and murder.

Not a pretty picture, then. But as our photo shows there is little real news reporting left in the UK. On TV the BBC is too busy promoting minority concerns and its own tv and radio shows. ITV is lost in “dream homes” and the slightly less lurid focus on the gutter press. Channel 4 is obsessed with Big Brother. And the rest with a few exceptions promote only reruns of D-grade sitcoms and “reality” shows.

The “red top” newspapers of the UK have often been a joke for people from other nations. The sad thing is that in the past 20 years the serious newspapers have slimmed down in physical size, but also in reporting standards.

“No such thing as bad publicity” is a phrase often heard. It is now common to see the typical “night out” photo of a big-breasted wannabe-celeb, guzzling booze and allowing her tits to fall out of a dress designed for that purpose.

Our photo shows Lisa Appleton as part of a Big Brother "promotion" in the UK.

As it happens we have nothing at all against topless photos, or completely nude for that matter. We have no problem at all with man or woman emphasising their assets as part of self-promotion. And we also appreciate the feminine form in its many manifestations. But, and that is a small or large “but” depending on your point of view, there is a terrible lack of balance in the media in the UK these days.

Which means serious followers of news now follow the web rather than newspapers or UK tv news. Of course, we also choose the web for our quality porn as this is also seriously lacking in the UK non-media!!

True Blood is the Twin Peaks of the Noughties - and we love it

2009-07-25T15:26:00.000-07:00

Just as adult TV received a huge shot in the arm when Twin Peaks graced our small screens in the early 90’s, so True Blood has broken free from the never-ending police-procedurals of our time. Oh, and our screens have got much bigger and the colours so much brighter.

All of which makes the arrival of another strong American character, played by Anna Paquin (photo), a real delight. Strong female characters seem to be in favour with some American studios, not least HBO. So taking the Southern Vampire Mysteries novels by Charlaine Harris and adding the scriptwriter from American Beauty and producer of Six Feet Under has produced a winner.

There is nothing wrong with CSI and Law & Order and The Wire and the dozen spin-offs and copycats. They are good, chunky tv. The problem is the characters. The tortured white male cop. The ambitious black woman. The pretty examiners and assistants (that’s “pretty” of both sexes). And then, worst of all, the “human interest” angle when “the job” affects the personal life of one of the main characters.

In many respects Twin Peaks was a product of the 80’s with the wide variety of characters - many of them especially quirky - and the storylines that completely rewrote the themes of shows like Dynasty and Falcon Crest. If Twin Peaks redefined 80’s TV then The Sopranos redefined the 90’s. We all know the huge influence (and critical success) of The Sopranos and it could just be that True Blood is a worthy successor for the Noughties.

In fact, True Blood is not at all in the same “category” as Buffy or Twilight - despite many reviewers and critics making that connection. Both those shows are teen drama. Excellent teen drama, without doubt. So this is not to say that True Blood is better than those shows, but in a different category. Buffy and Twilight are the tv equivalent of pop music - and damn good pop at that - with catchy scripts, attractive characters and just enough teen experimentation to add some realism. True Blood is heavy metal in comparison, raw and loud and in your face.

The first season of True Blood has just started in the UK so the reception of the mostly uptight middle-class audience will be rather interesting to behold. Strong female characters who enjoy explicit sex are not the norm in tv shows made on this side of the Atlantic, so the coming weeks could be revealing in more ways than one.

Britney achieves the most Top 40 singles this decade

2009-07-23T08:12:00.000-07:00

In another first for Britney Spears and, it must be said, the dominance of powerful women in the music industry, another milestone has been achieved. With its debut in the No.35 slot, Radar has become the 21st entry by Britney into the Billboard Top 40 chart this decade.

This makes Britney the best artist at achieving chart success among her peers - and also makes a mockery of all the critics and haters who try to belittle the musical power and attraction of a modern icon. Britney Spears presents fantastic pop music - year after year. This is in stark contrast to the lack of success of all the artists the critics try to promote as being “the best”.

Radar is the fourth single from the Circus album and puts Britney in the unique slot of having the most hits on the chart since 2000. In short, it also proves that Britney was never a "one hit wonder" and definitely not an overnight success. Years of hard work led to her success, and many more years of equally hard work has led to this new achievement.

Photo shows Britney on stage in the current Circus World Tour.

Hello Kitty and MAC and gothic ... and Katy Perry - marketing mayhem

2009-07-23T05:20:00.000-07:00

Or maybe, to use the musical vernacular, this is a marketing mash-up. Taken on their own merits, there is plenty going for each “brand” - and most successful singers are now brands as much as musicians. So the choice of funky, almost rock-chick Katy Perry to help promote the MAC Hello Kitty make-up range will probably haul in a lot of interest from people who may not have looked twice.

Previously seen in some definite Betty Page-style outfits, Perry is clearly enjoying her opportunities to play with fashion and appearance. And Hello Kitty is definitely on the fun side of life.

Apparently the corset Katy is wearing was designed by The Blonds and auctioned off for charity recently. Along with the studded leather and bright accessories, not to mention the up-front pose, the promotional photoshoot will add more strength to Perry’s position as a modern style icon.

Oh, and for that extra touch of bling, the Hello Kitty broaches and badges were created from Swarovski Crystals. Way to go, girl!!

Photo: Katy Perry in the promotional shoot for Hello Kitty and MAC make-up.

Watch out - Maria Sharapova is 100% fit - and 100% determined

2009-07-23T02:36:00.000-07:00

Maria Sharapova has announced she is “a hundred per cent” in the run-up to an appearance for the Newport Beach Breakers in their World Team Tennis match against Kansas City. Other good news is Maria will be competing in the Bank of West Tournament in California which starts on Monday. All being well, Sharapova will then play the Los Angeles Women's Tennis Championship the following week.

In keeping with the mental determination that is so often on display on the court, Maria is philosophical about her experiences with shoulder surgery. “For the rest of my career I'll be doing shoulder exercises. It won't be as fun as I want it to be. But everyone has to do it. Everyone has injuries. It's part of the game.”

The 9-month recovery was, it seems, also very much a case of steely goal-setting. “I mean, if I wasn't at 100%, I certainly wouldn't be playing. That's why I took my time and gave myself a chance to really go out there and to feel like I didn't have any excuses.”

Maria’s impressive recent matches, especially at Wimbledon, showed her incredible mental and physical power. Battling through 3 sets when not yet match fit is a worthy return. The next big tournament is the US Open, beginning on August 31st. Sharapova has said she never wavered in believing she would make a full comeback.

“By no means was it easy. I had days where I had to push myself more than I've ever had to mentally. Obviously just getting to be able to play tennis again is an achievement in itself.”

The only worry is probably for Sharapova’s opponents: “Now it's about preparing myself, forgetting about what I went through, getting back into the form where I was - and even better!”

The echoes of Buffy in Dollhouse ... and they're all good

2009-07-15T08:02:00.000-07:00

Echo as a dominatrix (photo) in Dollhouse was perhaps inevitable,

one of those welcome surprises even if it is s a slight reprise of Faith in Buffy The Vampire Slayer. In both cases there is no doubting the attraction of Eliza Dushku as a versatile actress.

Obsession of a different type is most powerful with the lapsed FBI agent Paul Smith, although when November contacts him as a Dollhouse “double agent” (if that is a sufficient term anymore) and tells him to look at why rather than where, the plot thickens even more.

When femme-boss De Witt appears to be programming an Active (Victor) for her own amusement, the psychology becomes complicated and complex. But when Dominic is revealed as a double agent of a different type, the scales move strongly in favour of the Dollhouse ... or do they really move more in favour of Echo? Sad for Langton, though.

The power of Dollhouse is in the characters and sharp script - just like it was with Buffy. The sci-fi/fantasy elemnets are fun wrapping, but the core is in the motives and, on occasions, the neuroses of the characters. Which Whedon draws so well. In short, Dollhouse is another triumph.

Psychological fears start to dominate in Dollhouse

2009-07-15T06:05:00.000-07:00

Now that Dollhouse has moved out of the “setting the scene” storylines, we now see everything in a different light - the technology (aka the failures), the Actives (no longer innocent) and the Handlers (often nasty).

Episode 8 of season 1 has the revelation of our “favourite” Actives starting to experience some memories of their real personalities, which is not so good for Sierra after last week’s shock of her rape by a Handler. So the Handlers are becoming twitchy. Just to be clear they announce: “Any developmental steps an Active makes can be dangerous to the House.” So, in short, don’t think of them as people but as “pets” - gasp!

Echo, Sierra (photo), November & Victor decide to try an escape, until Echo realises every Active needs a chance to escape, not just the 4. The nasty side of mind-wipes & reprogramming are further revealed when Sierra finds the man who put her into the House - to turn her into a mindless but willing sex slave.

The sociological interest of Dollhouse has been overtaken by the psychological issues, and they are a lot more frightening. The “open loops” of the Active’s histories are probably not closed, however.

No stopping Miley Cyrus on a Sunday morning

2009-07-12T01:26:00.001-07:00

Sunday morning is often a time for catching up and that usually means sifting through lots of email and RSS feeds of the personal kind - the activities and hobbies, the musical interests - alongside the big Sunday papers and all the lifestyle magazines.

So, in the background, there needs to be some great music. When I spotted a reference to a Hannah Montana song selection on Twitter it was rather easy to click the link. Miley Cyrus has a remarkable voice. Not Celine or Mariah style, but Miley delivers a budding, full-throttle rock-chick performance time after time. There is strength and passion in abundance in all Miley does.

The critics and haters often attack Miley, from the stupid (Dan Milliken) to the jealous (Peaches Geldof). Success based on talent and hard work tends to be undervalued in the gutter-press media of today. The newspapers, magazines and tv all want scandal and sensationalism. Who flashed panties is more important than positive news. Are Angelina & Brad splitting up is more important than their donations of millions to charities.

In the meantime, I will happily play Miley Cyrus (photo shows The Climb) as an inspiration while searching for the positives in life and the universe.

Just click on our label for Miley to see previous posts.

Skins rewind on Channel 4

2009-07-11T15:31:00.001-07:00

Just in case you missed our previous posts on the superb drama Skins, season 3 is being rerun on Channel 4 at 11pm on Wednesdays.

Just click on our Skins label to see all the previous posts. The show is not just a great teen drama and a brilliant look at teen lifestyle away from the plastic American shows, it is also a great showcase for what's left of British tv.

Our photo shows Kaya (who plays Effy) and Hannah (who plays Pandora) at the BAFTA awards party. As well as being brilliant characters, they both deliver some classic lines in the show.

The good news is that season 4 has begun production, so there will be plenty of great storylines and, we hope, even more surprises.

Britain’s Next Top Model final result - joy

2009-07-06T14:29:00.000-07:00

Back to London for the final of Britain’s Next Top Model and a catwalk show. But first, a few more minutes of “background” on what has become Nasty Blond versus Positive Brunette.

We decided, if Sophie wins, at least she will just be a silent model (if we are really lucky). “I want” is her whole purpose in life. Her greed and jealousy is horrible.

We thought if Mecia (top photo) wins then Britain might have another good ambassador, perhaps even to the standard achieved by host and judge Lisa Snowdon.

The most amusing part of the show was the looks on the faces of the PPQ designers. Their words were pleasant, but the expressions spoke such different stories. They appeared to genuinely like Mecia, and were bored with Sophie (bottom photo).

The interview with the newspaper again showed Sophie’s horrible personality. Backstabbing and nasty are not character traits that come across as being worthy, even if it is a competition.

In contrast, Mecia has taken part in the competition on a week-by-week basis, trying to do her best whatever was asked. Her goal was to be as good as possible.

There was another fantastic bonus - Lisa phoned her friend Jodie Kidd and asked her to pop in and give a few extra catwalk tips.

The result, however, was good news. Positive Mecia won and we wish her all the best.

Britain’s Next Top Model semi-final result

2009-07-06T12:54:00.001-07:00

With the semi-final of Britain’s Next Top Model taking place in Argentine, it was perhaps no surprise that Evita would play a part in the photo-shoot. The results were bad for Jade, reasonable for Sophie and quite stunning for Mecia.

So here’s our scorecard on the semi-final show:

Some explanations. So many of the girls were negative, especially about each other. Mecia often stood out because she was positive. Sophie has a constant sneer about just about anything, which brings the low scores. Jade is just not a good body type to promote, no matter the reasons.

In the decision, the judges did not like Sophie’s walk. They picked on small points about Mecia, but decided to keep her for the final. They often had a blind-spot about Jade, selecting her for the wrong reasons. But at least Jade acknowledged she may have been a poor example as a winner and has stated she will put on weight and work hard to pursue her career. Respect.

So Mecia and Sophie for the final. Wish Sophie would shut-up with her nastiness. She's in the final, for goddess sake!

Ashley loses the plot on Britain’s Next Top Model showdown

2009-07-05T09:51:00.000-07:00

Reaching the final stages of Britain’s Next Top Model has been a bit of a relief. As an advertisement for the UK, the only person who really impresses week after week is host and judge Lisa Snowdon (photo) rather than any of the contestants.

No idea why Jade wins some of the tasks because she is so inappropriate as an image in our slightly more politically-correct times. But obviously “healthy body” rather than “stick insect” has not filtered through the whole fashion industry yet.

Following a rather passionate evening in the pool with a local hunk, Ashley then couldn’t act sexy with a male model in a shoot the next day. Duh?

Sophisticated appeared to come easy to Mecia and even though she said it felt awkward, the results still looked stunning. And somehow Sophie continues to scrape through the tasks.

In the end the judges decided to send Ashley home and although there have been some good moments, her personality has frequently been very irritating.

You can take the girl out of the country ...

2009-07-05T08:42:00.000-07:00

With the show moving to Argentina - a hot holiday destination with plenty of opportunities to be the worst of “Brits Abroad” - the contestants of Britain’s Next Top Model did not disappoint in adding to the impression that Brits are rather shallow.

Another problem is the negativity affecting the girls, especially Viola having a melt-down in both tasks. Self-doubt is no good in these type of competitions, where any job could touch on a sensitive area of your personality. Even at this stage in the competition too many of the girls start from a position of “I can’t do this” and it’s just tedious. Host and judge Lisa Snowdon continues to impress with her intelligence and understanding.

You have to wonder whether any of them will be a big success. The never-ending list of excuses and complaints sounds worse than any comedy show about the fashion industry.

At least Sophie is keeping her act together when at the tasks and shoots, even if such a beeatch the rest of the time.

At 4,000 feet above sea-level on the salt lake, the girls finally seemed to understand the need for a professional attitude, whatever the lack of comfort. Mecia (photo) again managed to project a real personality, while Jade is still rather plastic - although that could be an advantage for lots of model work.

Miley Cyrus tour of the UK sells out within minutes

2009-07-05T05:25:00.000-07:00

When 16-year-old singer Miley Cyrus embarks on an eight-date tour of the British Isles in December, the knowledge that the shows sold out within minutes should add an extra level of pride. The tour includes gigs in London, Manchester, Birmingham and Dublin.

The star's shows at Dublin's O2 arena on December 16 and 17 were the first to sell out, with all seats snapped up after just ten minutes following strong telephone and online response. As ou might expect from such a genuine star, Miley was happy: "I am looking forward to coming to the UK and meeting the fans. I am thrilled at the response to the shows."

Brother Trace has been touring in Europe recently, while Miley is no stranger either: "I love Britain and I love London ... and the great shopping on Oxford Street. I'm a massive Beatles fan so hoping to have time to stop by Abbey Road studios for a visit." A humble star and an enthusiastic fan - Miley is a great role model for modern teens.

Photo shows Miley Cyrus rocking out at a promotional event - she always gives so much time and pleasure to her fans.

International stars Cheryl Cole and Kylie win big at Glamour Awards

2009-07-05T05:04:00.000-07:00

The UK’s Glamour Awards became something of an international affair in 2009, with most winners benefitting from strong international careers.

Cheryl Cole won two awards at the magazine's annual prize-giving ceremony, the first as TV Personality of the Year for her work as a judge on The X Factor. Cheryl also received podium recognition with group Girls Aloud being named Band of the Year.

Aussie star Kylie Minogue was named as Woman of the Year while American singer/songwriter Katy Perry was recognised as Best Newcomer.

Now Stateside, Alexa Chung took the award for Presenter of the Year while Michelle Ryan (photo) picked up the prize for Best UK TV Actress of the Year as star of the USA tv show Bionic Woman.

Transatlantic fame also leads to much wider exposure for UK actresses and musicians. With the new dominance of the East European and Russian talent appearing in film, fashion and music throughout Europe, the good old US of A may be a last chance for those big magazine and calendar opportunities.

Photo shoots with The Script and Terry O'Neil - the final draws close

2009-07-05T04:26:00.001-07:00

Lisa Snowdon was a fabulous contestant on Strictly Come Dancing and when she teamed up with Brendan Cole (her partner from that show) for a mini cameo on Britain's Next Top Model, the contestants were ecstatic - until they heard they were to fly off to Buenos Aires, at which point they definitely became OTT-to-the-max eXstatic.

The 6 remaining contestants are often lacking in social skills, especially towards each other, but knowing one would be eliminated before the trip to Argentina really tipped the scales to bitchness-maximus.

Terry O"Neil, famous in his own right as a photographer and inspiration, was very crisp and objective. He, at last, expressed doubts about Sophie (photo). Although she can look good in some shoots, the negativity of her attitude to life - and the other girls - shows through too often.

It was a surprise after all the positive comments about Ashley that she was in the bottom two, but it was Daisy who got the chop. Ashley did not help her case by turning up with a hangover, but Ashley, Mecia and Jade so very often transform into very credible professional models.

The final really will be interesting.

Californication adds more guest stars

2009-07-05T03:41:00.001-07:00

Showtime has officially announced that Ed Westwick (Gossip Girl), Eva Amurri (Saved!), and Embeth Davidtz (In Treatment) will guest star on the David Duchovny-led Californication when the show returns for its third season this fall.

The press announcement also included the news that Rick Springfield will appear. The four will join recently announced guest stars for season three, including Kathleen Turner, Diane Farr, and Peter Gallagher.

Season three finds Hank (Duchovny) taking a position as a college professor. According to the release, "he'll attempt to shape the minds of the next generation of scribes while trying to hold down a 'regular' job and keep wild child daughter Becca (Madeleine Martin) on the straight and narrow."

As for the new guest stars, Westwick plays Balt, "a student of Hank's with a fascination for vampire lit" in episode 2.

Eva Amurri (photo) is the 24-year-old daughter of actress Susan Sarandon and also plays a student, while Davidtz will appear as Felicia Koons - wife of the school's dean (Gallagher) - in 10 episodes.

Not hired for their brains - but group dynamics reveal weaknesses

2009-07-05T02:55:00.001-07:00

No-one said it would be easy but it seems none of the hopefuls on Britain's Next Top Model had a particularly good education. When fashion scouts and clients asks questions about, well, fashion, it is astonishing how often the contestants lack knowledge of the fashion industry or even brands.

"Who is your favourite model?" and "Name one of your style icons" leaves the girls struck dumb. Another downside of the constant pressure is the growing nastiness between the girls.

Group dynamics have created, inevitably, cliques - or, to be a bit less kind, mini-gangs. As the numbers have fallen, the "us versus them" has become "us versus her" as jealousies and stress take their toll.

The most unlucky hopeful throughout the show seems to have been Viola (photo) who frequently looks fabulous. However, her lack of understanding of many English language phrases and terms have provided easy targets for the other girls to put her down.

Host and judge Lisa Snowdon has often praised Viola. The tasks have seldom put Viola in the bottom two, but it is clear many of the English talent scouts (and the other contestants) regard Viola as inferior for the wrong reasons.

Nine Nordic Queens - or ice daggers at dawn

2009-07-04T01:00:00.001-07:00

Going to Iceland and wearing next to nothing for a photoshoot in a freezing lakeland is no easy task, and some of Lisa Snowdon’s hopefuls were spectacular. Ashley from Scotland is maybe used to the colder temperatures, a distinct advantage to help her shine in the task.

Photographer Huggy asks the models “don’t move, don’t even breathe” and, in the end, that was mild when compared to the verbal daggers the girls started to throw at each other. Personalities are starting to rub hot against each other, with tears and irritations flowing freely. Britain's Next Top Model was dangerously close to being Britain's Next Top Catfight.

The Nine Nordic Queens theme suited some hopefuls really well, especially Ashley (photo) and Annaliese, while Mecia and Hayley were chasing hard. But Maddy and Annaliese are of the not-tall variety and it seems this shoot, which required statuesque strength, was beyond their ability to create.

The models are also required to be actors at times, so the task to be enthusiastic about strange, raw and unusual meat and fish was too much for some girls. Being a model is one of the hardest jobs in the world and it is clear some hopefuls are too wrapped in their fears and prejudices to be able to adapt to different cultures and values.

Joke of the decade - Peaches claims to be better role model than Miley

2009-07-04T00:53:00.000-07:00

In one of the more curious episodes of self-delusion, Peaches Geldof has claimed she could be a better role model for young girls than Miley Cyrus. In saying she is “more real” the onus is on Peaches to back that up.

Anyone who has followed the life and career of Miley Cyrus (photo with Taylor Lautner) knows she has strong family values of decency, moderation and respect. The love and care for each other in the Cyrus family, especially the public side we see with dad Billy Ray and brother Trace, is wonderful. Miley and Trace post regular tweets on Twitter, often full of humour and love - love of life and of each other and their friends and fans.

In contrast, the Geldof family has suffered many examples of a dysfunctional family. No matter the degree of drunkenness or the extent of the claims of drug use, there are too many photos of disheveled and/or drunk episodes that argue against Peaches as a role model. Except if you want to agree with most of Europe that the British are the worst drunken louts - men and women - at this time.

Peaches (photo for Ultimo), at 20-years-old, is allegedly divorcing husband Max Drummey. He has joked that the marriage was a publicity stunt. Unfortunately there can be elements of truth in many jokes, but there is little reality in the idea of Peaches of a good role model.

We have no problem with Peaches being a tattooed model for underwear company Ultimo, nor any concerns about her life as a celeb wildchild. Her life is her own, to do with as she pleases. And many people will follow the Geldof stories with interest and even delight. But when Peaches puts down someone else, especially a positive person like Miley, the respect goes.

Kylie and Perfume = Couture, but not as we know it Jim

2009-07-03T22:55:00.001-07:00

The hopeful contestants on Britain’s Next Top Model receive so many fantastic opportunities, meeting and working with (or for) so many established stars in the fashion, music and lifestyle industries. Given the chance to interview Louise Redknapp and to create an image for Kylie’s new perfume could have been career-making moments.

For example, Sophie is never far from a sneer, Ashley has an alarming lack of self-awareness, and Daisy has about as much character as a block of wood. In contrast, Jade and Mecia (photo) have that fantastic ability of the chameleon to adapt to each situation. Mecia was quite stunning with her image for Kylie’s Couture perfume.

Lisa Snowdon is full of confidence, in a charming “real” way, where that confidence comes from a positive attitude. It seems some of the wannabes can understand that, while others are lost in a negative space, putting others down rather than looking for the best in themselves.

Not every grouping of competitive women needs to descend into catty back-biting, and the process on BNTM is weeding out some of the worst offenders. But the appeal of the show is the way some of the personalities are growing stronger - some positive and some negative.

Don't forget you can click the label Britain’s Next Top Model to view all the episodes we have covered.

Going nude for the koala - Miranda Kerr is a top model campaigner

2009-07-03T01:28:00.001-07:00

Miranda Kerr, one of the many (and sexy) Victoria’s Secret models, is taking a stand for koalas in the Australian edition of Rolling Stone magazine. Miranda is tastefully nude on the cover in a classic Lady Godiva pose (although she is chained to a tree!).

Miranda explained her reasons for agreeing to the photoshoot and the campaign: “I feel strongly about the need to protect our natural environment because it supports our life - it really is that simple.”

Miranda is also promoting awareness of the threats to the natural habitats of the koala.

“It’s a sad thing - there are only about 100,000 koalas left in Australia. Something like 80 per cent of the koalas’ habitat has been destroyed since Europeans arrived in Australia.”

Christina's new album will be futuristic

2009-07-02T23:44:00.001-07:00

Christina Aguilera has a new studio album in the works, to follow on from the 2006 hit, Back To Basics. Xtina described that album as having a “vintage, retro, glam appeal” and it sounds like the new one will be completely different.

“I am working with a lot of electro artists to make the new album come alive,” the star said in a recent interview. “That is what really inspires me at the moment."

Christina went on to say the upcoming album will have a very modern sense about it, a "futuristic" feeling, with the star wanting to give a new twist and new sensibility.

Skins series 3 is back!

2009-07-02T23:04:00.001-07:00

You know we have raved about series three of Skins - and it's back on Channel 4 (rather than E4 this time). If you're not a night owl, set your recorder for 11pm on a Wednesday.
We reckon Skins is one of the best shows on TV. We say it's:

- best drama

- best teen drama

- best series with great music

- best modern tv

And any other categories you may like to name.

Our photo shows Effy and Emily, often central characters in the many storylines.

To see all the other stories we have on this fantastic TV series, select our Skins label.

A "Model Attitude" - not yet by a long way

2009-07-02T22:34:00.000-07:00

Attitude, Attitude. Whether musician, painter, poet or model, those involved in a creative industry need some attitude to succeed. That attitude can come out in a positive way or even negative (just look at how Kate Moss has used "negative image" to great effect).

For Lisa Snowden there is mental strength to match a deep awareness of how to use a body to make a strong statement. Lisa sees the ability to be a great model is empowering, allowing a person to express many sides of their personality.

So Britain's Next Top Model is about getting the contestants to experience a wide range of situations and to judge how they respond.

When the girls were asked to do a topless photoshoot, the reactions ranged from totally comfortable all the way through to extreme self-doubt. Chloe (photo) seemed quite relaxed for this task, but she later fell apart when asked to imitate a lesbian scene for an "Urban Chic" theme.

And all this on top of the many freak-outs during the make-over session. Models are like studio musicians, playing a part for that day or week or month. A musician can't really say "no way" to a hip hop gig because of a preference for heavy rock. So too with the models. And many of the BNTM girls are too precious - a totally wrong attitude.

Britney Spears finds new balance and continued success - on and off the stage

2009-05-28T04:46:00.000-07:00

Britney Spears has found new balance in her life and seems to juggling the demands of celebrity and home life very well - and also credits Madonna with some advice.

Britney said in a recent interview: "I'm happy. Truly, I feel like the girl who has it all. I have my family, my boys, my friends, my fans ... the Circus show.” In fact, Spears is also pleased that her critics have backed off, allowing some praise to enter their columns at last.

Keeping her children close is also very important and she says “everything else falls in place around them” and that includes them being included in some of the touring schedule. The suggestion from Madonna is that children will remember time with their mother and that is more important than where the shared experiences take place.

Britney is also philosophical about the recent years: "Nothing I can do about the past, I guess. People thought I was finished, didn't they? But I'm hoping to prove them wrong now.” As the chart-topping singles from the Circus album show, Spears raised the stakes with great music, followed by a huge and successful concert tour.

Perhaps the best thing to hear of late is Britney’s ability to understand who she is and what the important things in life are: "... more importantly, I'm not sad anymore. I was just so sad for so long, but not anymore. And you know what? That feels really, really good."

Recent coverage of Britney Spears (photo) while relaxing on the beach shows a healthy star back to her best.

Blurring the boundaries between fame and success - Britain's Next Top Model success

2009-04-21T01:25:00.000-07:00

Last year's winner of Britain's Next Top Model was public school girl Alexandra Evans. The 19-year-old, known as Ali, beat her friend Catherine Thomas, 18, and curvy brunette Stefanie Wilson, 22, who the judges claimed was "too Playboy" (whatever that means).

Our favourite judge (and ballroom dancer) is Lisa Snowdon, who praised Ali for the way she blossomed in front of the judges' eyes. "She's always been one of the most interesting girls. She's very special looking and all her pictures are fierce - the fashion world is her oyster."

With her new "modelling" name, Alex Evans (photo 1) has achieved some magazine and fashion success, although Maxim magazine were fast to feature Alex as a cover girl. The distinction between fame and success is increasingly blurred in today's rapid world of overnight success often being not much more than a passing fad.

We will follow this year's BNTM with interest, as there are a couple of characters starting to appear. Will they be diamonds in the rough, or stumble at the challenges ahead?

See our roundup of the contestants and details in our regular updates. Chloe (photo 2) and Lisa may have a good chance of progressing, although "hippy" Jade (photo 3) could hit trouble soon.

New Season and New Models - Lisa Snowdon's Britain's Next Top Model

2009-04-20T16:33:00.000-07:00

TV talent shows are one of the main ways to see some of the new cheerleaders who are graduating into the elite model ranks. The first show of the 2009 season of Britain's Next Top Model was, however, overloaded with the 20 wannabees. So many started with bad attitudes that they sounded like grumpy hornets rather than sweet honey bees.

Like all these competitions, it could be the bits we don't see that make up the judges' minds. Still compulsive viewing though, not least because of the gorgeous Lisa Snowdon.

At least Madeleine and Jennifer are outdoor girls and quite happy with army-style boot camp of episode one. On the down side, townies Rebecca and Kasey started moaning from the outset, while Chloe and Natasha were already blaming everything else except themselves.

Emma, Rebecca and Natasha totally unimpressed in the first catwalk show, looking so sulky that it is impossible to understand why they are on the show at all.

Meanwhile Nell and Jennifer had already owned up to being bisexual.

The first elimination was of 5 hopefuls, and we were not surprised that Emma, Natasha and Jennifer had failed to impress the judges. It was more surprising about Emily and Natalie.

After the photoshoot competition, the next 2 to leave were perhaps more surprising, as Nell looked great during much of the show. Rebecca was a moaner, but certainly appeared more photogenic than Ashley or Daisy.

No doubt there will be many more surprises and upsets as the show progresses.

Skins series 3 proves enormously popular - our loves are loved by 121K people

2009-04-20T06:20:00.000-07:00

You know we loved Skins series 3 and especially the Twins and Naomi - both the characters and the storylines. When 121 thousand people vote and put our loved characters and episode up the top of the polls, whoooop! 

So hustle along to the excellent Skins site at E4 and check the huge range of stuff - http://tinyurl.com/c3lwsh 

Along with the show, you'll find great music notes, fashion details and a whole host of behind the scenes. Plus voting for the BAFTA Awards, and the Newsletter, and the Blog, and ...

And meantime we'll also replay some choice moments, and check through the photo galleries and indulge in just another huge helping of Emily nostalgia.

Here's The Twins (photo) with Emily (photo, right)

The British history of female pop, in two short episodes

2009-04-11T02:43:00.000-07:00

The recent two-part series from the BBC, Queens of British Pop, was a welcome reminder of the strength and depth in musical talent throughout UK pop history. The story is not one of plain-sailing, however, with an equal mix of talent and trouble.

Starting with the troubled, Dusty Springfield was an icon and chart-topper with enormous talent and crippling insecurity, not least because of her sexuality. In contrast, Marianne Faithfull had no problem with her sexuality, but was one of the first stars to be crucified by the media.

The viciousness of the UK press was also a serious factor in the rise and fall of Alison Moyet, and of course the gutter press lost any pretence of seriousness with their treatments of Geri Halliwell and Amy Winehouse. Like their music or not, they do not deserve such pathetic coverage.

Happily, there are fantastic good news stories to provide some balance. Sandie Shaw brought freshness and carefree fashion to the uptight British tv system, while Suzi Quatro and Siouxsie Sioux (photo 1) provided rock-chick power and punk antagonism in equal measure.

For musical artistry, the queens are quite spectacular. Kate Bush has a combination of vocal skill and artistic intelligence that impressed and puzzled the UK public, yet she is one of the most respected in musical circles. No less multi-talented is Annie Lennox and her combination of pop, jazz and electronic styles that inspire her outstanding career.

At the top of the charts, in many respects, are adopted-Brit Kylie and "new comer" Leona. For personal power and ability to stay "6 months ahead of the rest of the world" it is hard to beat Kylie Minogue. From ultra-teen pop to progressive-trance and even moody-indie, Kylie rocks the charts and concert halls all around the world.

For sheer vocal talent, however, none come close to Leona Lewis (photo 2) and her record-breaking rise to stardom. That rise may have received a huge boost from X Factor, yet even Simon Cowell has said that Leona would have been signed to work with some of the world's greatest producers and songwriters - whether she won X Factor or not. That trust has paid off with wonderful results for the listening public.

It is such a shame that musical talent is so under-rated in Britian. A large part of the problem is the pathetic news machine in the UK is now so dumbed down that sniping gossip is more important than any appreciation of the music. While most of the British population is lost in soap stars and D-List so-called celebs, it is fantastic that the rest of world is recognising people like Leona Lewis as truly talented.

New world No. 1 ranking for Dinara Safina

2009-04-08T14:47:00.000-07:00

You already know we love Dinara Safina and on April 20 she will be crowned the new world number one tennis player.

Dinara is only the second Russian woman to hold the World No. 1 title, joining Maria Sharapova. The honors do not stop there as Dinara with Marat Safin are the first brother-sister duo in tennis history to both reach the top spot.

“It’s a great honor to reach the No. 1 ranking and it is a dream that every girl who has ever wanted to play professional tennis shares. It is even extra special for me since my brother Marat was able to reach the No. 1 ranking and I am happy to share this achievement with him,” said Dinara.

Safina also became the first player in Tour history to defeat three reigning No.1 ranked players in the same season (Justine Henin, Maria Sharapova and Jelena Jankovic). Her ranking in 2008 vaulted from No.17 to No.2, which resulted in Dinara winning the Tour’s Most Improved Player of the Year award as well, winning 44 of 54 matches.

Panettiere and Pepper - a new pizza topping?

2009-03-28T06:22:00.000-07:00

Hayden Panettiere has apparently been getting over her split with Heroes co-star Milo Ventimiglia by partying with new friend Paris Hilton and flirting with actor Gerard Butler and Red Hot Chili Peppers singer, Anthony Kiedis.

The rumour is that 19-year-old Hayden prefers older men, so the two 39-year-olds are both attractive, a little wild on the celebrity circuit, and in the "correct" age group. According to reports, Hayden met Gerard at a Victoria's Secret event and was happy to have her picture taken with him - "they seemed really close."

The split with Milo was due to a "lifestyle conflict" but are still on friendly terms. Reports say Hayden likes to go out in the Hollywood scene while Milo has been concentrating on work on his production company Divide Pictures.

All we know is Hayden is cute and hot and our favourite cheerleader.

Photo shows Hayden Panettiere looking stylish and fit at a Victoria's Secret show.

Teen TV - 2009 teen drama scorecard - Skins leads the pack

2009-03-22T06:45:00.000-07:00

The past 12 months has enjoyed a flood of great teen drama series, with some ongoing quality and a few outstanding performances. For us, Skins has been the best in a number of ways.

There are excellent features in some of the other series as well, so here is a summary of the shows and the ratings.

Leader of the Pack - Skins - UK - series 3

With wins for Best Drama at the 2008 Rose d'Or, Best Production Design (Drama) at the Royal Television Society Awards 2007 and a BAFTA for Best Title Sequence at the British Academy Television Craft Awards in May 2008, Skins has consistently achieved high regard for its content.

Alongside the acting, writing and production, Skins (photo 1 shows Effy on the cover of Super Super) has led the field with clever, up-to-the-minute marketing. The show won Best Advertising Campaign at the MediaGuardian Awards for Innovation in 2008. The viral marketing for the second series won the Entertainment award at the Interactive Marketing and Advertising Awards 2008.

Skins has also been praised worldwide, including Gordon Farrer writing in Melbourne's The Age newspaper calling it a "refreshing, entertaining and worthy series." He also claimed it was "compulsory viewing for parents of teenagers as much as for teens."

That recommendation is a problem in the UK, where the corrupt double standards of the protected BBC force excellent programmes like Skins into the margins of mainstream tv. In contrast, the BBC feature fights, drug abuse, drunks, incest, murder and rape in its soaps before the 9pm watershed.

One huge indicator of the uptight UK culture-police is that Skins DVDs get rated 18. In Oz the rating is MA15+ and in France the DVD is PG-12. That is a better approach. Skins deals with serious issues as well as having some fun. The scripts are sharp, clever and frequently astonish with their brilliance. But the key is the storylines are so relevant for younger teens. Proof of that relevance can be seen in the viewing figures:

Series 2 achieved 60% of the audience in the 16-24 age group
Series 3 achieved 56.2% of the audience in the 16 and 34 age group

Gold Stars this season

Emily Fitch (photo 2) has grown from "sister in the shadow" to become both a strong and caring person and friend. Perfect skill by the scriptwriters. Superbly played by this season's outstanding new talent, Kathryn Prescott.

Naomi Campbell started as an independent outsider who gradually won our hearts and minds as she navigated an unusual home life and painful self-discovery. Wonderful, understated performances by Lily Loveless which, at times, have chilled with their perfection.

Katie Fitch begins as something of a WAG and often bulldozes over twin Emily in her chase for popularity. Attempting to be Effy's best friend proves to be a strategy filled with unpleasant side-effects - again wonderfully scripted. Blazing performances by Megan Prescott will surely lead to greater development.

Effy Stonem combines a troubled leader role with some anguish left over from season 2. She is the fearless initiator, yet may also be the most vulnerable. Wonderful performances and character development handled by the incandescent Kaya Scodelario.

Silver Commendations this season

Pandora Moon is the closest to being a best friend for Effy. With a tremendous combination of eccentric and innocent sides to her character, Panda is another shining example of the talent of the scriptwriters. The bright and colourful performances are handled by Lisa Backwell, in both clothes and language!

Karen Mclair has featured in a more minor role as Freddie's sister, but when centre stage she has brought a few episodes to wonderful, young-teen life. The extremely impressive early showing is from Klariza Clayton.

Worthy Second Place - Gossip Girl - USA - series 2

While nowhere near the grit and "real life" tone of Skins, the second season has done a few things really well. And while not as "sexy" as the books, the tv show suggests enough teenage game-playing and bed-hopping to echo the lives - if not the money - of many. Gossip Girl is also better than many other teen dramas which are little more than paper-thin storylines of the soap variety.

Gold Star this season

Jenny Humphrey is one of the youngest of the Gossip Girl characters and rapidly rises to a central role. It might be that the scriptwriters were having trouble wringing any more drama out of Serena and Blair, or maybe Jenny's character is more appropriate for the cultural climate today. Nonetheless, her natural talents and feisty personality have risen above most of the other storylines. This has been an impressive season for Taylor Momsen (photo 4) in the role, as both her real-life acting and modelling have fused in one key role.

Silver Commendation this season

Blair Waldorf as the "queen bee" has been both a problem and a clever story hook. On one hand her scheming is usually obvious and based on money, influence or cheating. The interest is in how this is developed against the "return" of Serena (photo 3 shows Serena and Blair on cover of Rolling Stone) to centre stage - and all the other characters felled like skittles in their battles. The haughty, beautiful and insecure character is played with skill by Leighton Meester.

Close Third - 90210 - USA - series 1

Created as a contemporary spin-off from Beverly Hills, 90210, the all-new 90210 is not that new. There are still many early weaknesses like goody-goody central characters (Annie, Navid) and cardboard-baddies (Adrianna). However, the cast is rich with adult and teen characters with space to grow, and the arrival of Rebecca Rand Kirshner (formerly of Gilmore Girls and Buffy the Vampire Slayer) as executive producer/showrunner should see some deeper storylines.

Gold Star this season

Erin aka Silver is the young half-sister of Kelly Taylor, one of the major characters to return from the original series. Silver publishes a blog called The Vicious Circle and this often leads to conflict, which is reflected in the cold response to her from many other students. As a number of the other characters are still one-dimensional, and because the role is played by Jessica Stroup (photo 5) with flair and strength, Silver stands out so far.

Battle of the cleavage - Paris Hilton's flirty British Best Friend episode 6

2009-03-21T03:19:00.000-07:00

The struggle - and I use that word correctly - to find a British Best Friend for Paris Hilton is not doing the image of the UK much good. In episode 6, Callum Best is the mystery guest and is asked by Paris to test the flirt-ability of the contestants.

Chrissie and Flic (photo, right) were surprisingly coy, but Meddy (photo, left) was an even bigger surprise - or disappointment. Despite being a self-confessed promiscuous flirt, she failed totally on the challenge.

Emma talked about herself, as usual, so was a little boring. But Emma was chosen as the Pet so Paris could get to know her as a person, not a self-obsessed pop star. Paris looks amazing - again - and Emma is very convincing in her chat with Paris.

Kat was straight into massage and impressed the audience. Carrie was gosh-wow and that appealed to Callum's vanity. She is so sick-making it is awful, and her speeches drip with fake emotion: "Paris is so close to my heart."

The sash challenge exposed a dramatic clash between Emma and Kat - and Kat didn't realise that what you project often reveals more about you than the person you pick on. Meanwhile, in the battle of the cleavage, Emma, Chrissie and Meddy are all starting to show lots of WAG-style flesh.

The photoshoot challenge was excellent, especially the Gossip and Trust concept from Sam and Flic. Meddy and Carrie were awful. Chrissie (photo 2) and Kat were very British - and tacky, and bitchy to the max. Paris agreed with our choice and, although she has done so many photoshoots, she said this one was special.

The BBFs then get to party at Raffles, and expose their low class - especially Kat and Meddy. Can't imagine Paris would want either of them as a best friend. The elimination was perfect this week as Kat and Meddy were the two worst behaved and show the shallow and nasty side of the British today.

Second album for Leona Lewis underway

2009-03-20T14:26:00.000-07:00

According to the News section of Chalice Studios website: "The beautiful and talented, Leona Lewis came in to record a new single called Don’t Let Me Down. With Justin Timberlake producing and James Fauntleroy writing, this song is a surefire smash hit!"

Leona has also been working with a host of top songwriters and producers on the other tracks for her new album. The cast list includs work with Ryan Tedder and Timbaland, while Ne-Yo has also confirmed that he has written songs. Leona has expressed interest in working with Coldplay/Chris Martin to give her second album a rockier edge.

Girls on top hit record levels - the new power generation is female

2009-03-16T03:28:00.000-07:00

The strength of today's girls and women in the music business is reflected in them reaching record numbers of placings in the Top 10. In both albums and singles, they are dominant - as we have been predicting for months.

Hot on the heels of Leona Lewis, Beyonce and Rihanna are Taylor Swift, Kelly Clarkson, Lady Gaga and - our current icon - Miley Cyrus who powered straight into No.6 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 with her new single, The Climb. The track also zoomed into No.3 on the digital downloads chart.

Also staying in the fast lane is Lady Gaga with Poker Face at No.3 and Just Dance at No.7, closely followed by Kelly Clarkson.

Over in the UK the girls are also on top, with a new record tally of 8 of the Top 10 singles, plus 6 of the Top 10 albums.

The American supremacy is also evident, with Kelly Clarkson, Taylor Swift and Lady Gaga swapping slots in both charts over the past few weeks.

Photo shows Miley Cyrus out jogging, all part of the daily feet-on-the-ground routine of this straight-A student. Her jogging companion may add to the attraction of staying fit!

Big trouble in Skins - and about Skins - am a very upset fan now

2009-03-12T16:40:00.000-07:00

Katie is bulldozing into queen bee mode, Effy is falling apart, Cook is not invited - and the music is fantastic. Yes, episode 8 of Skins series 3 hits the screen - and we are desperate there will only be two more episodes.

The good news, however, is that a fourth series is on the drawing board. Back on the road, trying to find their party site, Effy is driving as they encounter English equivalents of hillbillies. Not a huge surprise that, later, there are few scary moments in the woods.

Effy and Pandora are the waifs in the gathering, which changes as the shrooms take effect and everyone chills out into sweet dreams. Well, sort of, cos then they wake up to the sound of gun fire and strange forest noises. At least, strange Cook noises.

The dynamic turns bad as Cook tries to split everyone up, and before long many insecurities take hold with serious consequences.

Terrific acting as usual, especially the twins and Effy carrying the main load of the drama. Great choices of music as well, adding some grit and plenty of undertone to the scenes.

Major problem is with the storyline in ep 8, unfortunately, especially the BBC-ITV style of shallow soap. So weak, almost from the start: teens do "naughty" things, bad men frighten them "because they deserve it", teens get injured "because they deserve it", teens do things completely out of character, just to please a nanny-state storyline that is completely opposite to all the rest of season 3.

Have loved every other episode, but this one is rubbish.

YouTube being blocked due to UK music licence body

2009-03-09T12:50:00.000-07:00

There have always been unfair high CD prices in the UK compared to the rest of the world. Now the protective greed that has restricted music in the UK for so long has escalated to licencing greed on a massive scale.

Digital music is now limited in the UK after YouTube was restricted by the UK music licensing body PRS. Previous blocking of Pandora set the stage and PRS is now, in effect, blocking YouTube. UK music will suffer badly as singers and musicians find their options becoming more and more narrow.

Britney Spears and DSquared - the Circus Tour goth style

2009-03-08T13:30:00.000-07:00

The identical twins Dean and Dan Caten are from Canada, moved to Milan to become fashion designers, and one runway show in 2003 ended with Christina Aguilera stripping male models of their clothes.

Since then their wide-ranging label DSquared has often been involved in high-profile music collaborations. Their fashion show in Milan in September 2007 featured Rihanna entering the stage in an American muscle car, followed by a runway walk.

Their designs have been worn by Justin Timberlake, Madonna, Ricky Martin, Nicolas Cage, and Lenny Kravitz. In 2000-2001, Madonna commissioned them to design over 150 pieces for her Drowned World Tour 2001 and Don't Tell Me music video.

In 2008 it was the turn of Britney Spears to use their services for costume design for her Circus Tour. As you can see from the two images, the designs have a wonderful combination of circus and sexy, yet retain style and elegance.

Everything around Britney's tour has been getting rave reviews, not least the costumes - we can see why.

Goth fashion continues into 2009 at Paris shows

2009-03-08T08:48:00.000-07:00

Following collaborations with Bjork and all sorts of financial ups and downs, Hussein Chalayan has often produced intriguing designs. For example, in 2008 he designed a series of laser LED dresses in collaboration with luxury label Swarovski.

Now, on the heals of many gothic elements in New York, Paris and Moscow last year, there are plenty this year too. For Paris, Chalayan included some goth-inspired leather dresses with accentuated profiles.

Although he has a role as the creative director for German sportswear label Puma, Chalayan continues with shows at many events, and often works with other top-flight companies.

The designer also collaborated with German hoisery and legwear label Falke for his Autumn/Winter 2008 collection in Paris, producing one-off footwear designs to great effect.

The highs and lows of Skins - best show on UK tv

2009-03-06T04:38:00.000-08:00

Skins is just the best thing on TV at the moment. Although episode 7 was about JJ and Freddie in lots of respects, the fantastic highlights were the girls.

Emily's wonderful discussions with JJ about what she wants to do with her life - and with girls. Freddie's frolic with Katie - much to the surprise of everyone - cos didn't he want to be with Effy?

Karen's toilet mouth that never ceases to amaze. JJ's confused revelations with Effy - who always looks so bewitching, even when down in the dumps. Cook's never-ending self-obsessed positivity, which somehow still works.

In one fantastic scene, JJ gets through to Cook - just for a minute - before situation returns to normal.

Effy and Naomi maybe bury the hatchet, Katie and Naomi maybe bury the hatchet, and Cook, JJ and Freddie maybe get back to 'normal'. Oh, and Freddie looks so bewitching when he's angry!

But we are distressed that Emily is distressed. We are amazed at Emily's "once only charity event" with JJ. We love Emily - again and again.

See earlier posts:

Skins astonishes with its skill

Not just SEXXBOMB but also teen explosion

Skins continues to impress and surprise

The girls of Skins out-perform the mainstream

YouTube adds a lot to Skins exposure

New Skins - New Girls - New Conquests

Britney is back - and a style icon takes her rightful place at centre stage

2009-03-04T14:29:00.000-08:00

If anyone doubted the skill, talent and determination of Britney Spears, the Circus Tour may change their mind totally. In a show peppered with great hits, modern versions of older songs, and wonderful spectacle, fans new and old are being thrilled and surprised.

Whether rocking the halls from centre-stage or suspended from the enormous rig that contains the main rink, Britney glides and swoops through the air, and through her songs. The dancers and other cast members are excellent and yet it is still Britney who inspires with her athleticism and energy.

In support are the Pussycat Dolls and a host of circus-style performers, so the choreography and sets provide an ever-changing mood and energy through the four Acts.

The majority of the music press are positive, and some rather obviously praising with faint damns. They would rather have a story of problems, but the positives are so strong they are struggling. So let's all enjoy a show which brings lots of feel-good moments.

More detail here.

Dollhouse episode 2 raises the stakes and introduces bigger questions - great!

2009-03-01T13:21:00.000-08:00

Eliza Dushku is rather fit and in episode two of Dollhouse (The Target) she certainly proves it with scenes including white water rafting and rock climbing. Her character Echo has been imprinted to be the female companion for an avid outdoorsman.

Before long, however, the wilderness adventure becomes very serious when Mr Woodsman introduces Echo to his version of "a hunt". Previously resourceful and capable, Echo is running scared and handler Boyd is under attack. Even when they get together, the odds are still stacked against them and Boyd takes the first serious arrow hit.

Photo 1: Echo receives her new "imprint".

The natural DNA of Echo starts to show through more in this episode as we see further evidence of her capability to retain and absorb talents from previous imprints. When added to her natural skills the mix becomes powerful and lethal - especially for the bad guys.

Photo 2: Echo as super-fit outdoors girl.

Meanwhile, the horrors of what can happen when an imprint goes wrong is covered in the background story about Alpha that resulted in a bloodbath at the Dollhouse, and resulted in the terrible scars suffered by Dr Saunders. More important, however, may be the links to Echo.

Photo 3: He asks, "Is there anything you're not good at?"

If all that is not enough, potential complications for Echo increase when FBI Agent Ballard is given a clue to her identity after inspecting the site of last episode's kidnap shootout.

Photo 4: Woodsman is still pretending to be friendly.

The splicing and overlays of the various storylines keeps this episode really tight, encouraging this viewer to gather as much information as possible. As to what are clues or red herrings, time will tell.

Photo 5: Echo fights back - hard.

Eliza and creator Joss Whedon are making Dollhouse a compelling series.

Being a teen ain't easy - but Skins astonishes with its skill

2009-02-27T09:36:00.000-08:00

Naomi has troubles at home and at school - her mad hippy mum with her odd friends, and Emily virtually stalking her. Along with her politics teacher.

The actresses present a wide range of emotions and personality in this sixth episode of season 3 of Skins. Naomi (above left and centre) has intellectual problems, followed by emotional problems. Emily (above right) is both gorgeous and amazingly understanding.

So was it any wonder educational excellence - in the shape of a student school president - should end up with Naomi in a fight against Cook for the position. Not without some initial setbacks for Naomi, of course.

Back to the politics teacher: "What's a bit of public humiliation. I'm a teacher, I'm used to it."

The script of this third season is soooo good. And funny: Emily and Naomi wondering about the mechanics of what they might do - with lots of OILS - although it does cause Naomi a lot of soul-searching. The swim and frolic are wonderful for Emily, but upsetting for Naomi. Although not as upsetting as the politics teacher in the bed of Naomi's mum.

A brief thought of a frolic with Cook soon passes. Then her mum explains some life experience: "People who make us happy may not be the ones we expect. So when you find someone, you've got to cherish it."

Naomi later to Emily: "I do want someone, I do need someone. When I'm with you I feel happier, less alone." But she still wonders: "It's not that simple. Is It?" Stand by for the course of true love not running smooth.

Lily Loveless plays Naomi and Kat (Kathryn) Prescott plays Emily. They discussed episode 6 on the excellent Skins website. They knew each other from drama lessons - "but that was 3 years ago and then we were kissing each other, and in a forest, and in our underwear" explained Kat. The director and crew were astonished at the skill, tenderness and maturity that the two young actresses portrayed.

Lily said it was about being in character and able to present the story as well as you could. Kat continued that the storyline isn't really about lesbians but just two people falling in love and all the complications that brings. This is why Skins is so much better than most other teen dramas. It tells the truth and with such skill.

Success at the Academy Awards is also on the red carpet

2009-02-23T06:30:00.000-08:00

What a fantastic selection of dresses and gown on display at thisyear's Oscars, and that includes the pre-Oscar parties and the post-Oscar bashes. So as well as the actual Academy Awards, here are some picks of chart-topping couture.

Up on the main stage, Natalie Portman looked radiant in a stunning pink gown, which was a brilliant contrast on stage when presenting with Ben Stiller. In a "looking for something new to do" skit, Stiller thought he might move on to cinematography. Portman playes the perfect foil.

There were of course plenty of singers, producers and musicians on hand, and a couple really stood out. First is Carrie Underwood who looked very striking - good enough to eat - at the Elton John charity party. With that lovely open face and wonderful poise, she put many Hollywood big-names to shame.

Another friendly face was Miley Cyrus, proving her entry to adulthood is a combination of style and charm. From tv star to chart-topping rock-chick musician is a bit of a leap, but she is succeeding where many others have failed.

Evan Rachel Wood is currently looking to extend her reach into music as well, and looked radiant at the Oscars - our choice of the star of the show for beautifully elegant fashion.

Back on the main stage, here are a few of the major awards from the show:

Best Actress in a Leading Role
Kate Winslet for The Reader

Best Actress in a Supporting Role
Penélope Cruz for Vicky Cristina Barcelona

Best Actor in a Supporting Role
Heath Ledger for The Dark Knight

Best Actor in a Leading Role
Sean Penn for Milk

Best Writing - Original Screenplay
Dustin Lance Black for Milk

Not just SEXXBOMB but also teen explosion - Skins uncovered

2009-02-20T12:01:00.000-08:00

Karen Mclair is "juicing down tonight" in the SEXXBOMB talent quest and brother Freddie is horrified. Meanwhile Effy is partially dressed in his garden with a rather revealing outfit, side views of her bra and stockinged legs about a mile long.

Their little encounter in the garden shed is instructive, with Effy a combination of needy and also in comtrol: "Why don't you get your porn on the net like ordinary people," asks Effy when she finds a girlie magazine.

The magic of Skins is that it is too good for the main channels - "they can't handle the truth" - and so it is a huge cult classic in the best way. It understands and appeals to its key audience. The stresses and strains of teen life are written large, perfectly drawn, and there are no easy answers. There are no storylines like in the major soaps where nasty people are doing nasty things to each other, all under the pretence of social commentary.

So episode 5 continues with Freddie getting a timely reality check from the odious but sharp tv producer of "Search for a Sexxbomb", telling him to sort his life out rather than act Mr Superior and Mr Troubled. Meanwhile Karen is totally committed to be in the final of the talent quest, "singing for her mum and for anyone who has ever been through tragedy." Classic.

Effy's dad is leaving, but not quietly, and she is not impressed. Freddie arrives, but Effy warns him off: "I'll just break your heart." Which she does rather soon thereafter.

"They're not actually crazy, you know. They're just women." Harry Enfield's line as he explains the mysteries of life, in the character of Effy's dad.

"Ass to Ass witb You" is another classic piece of Karen magic and this is the sort of clip that should be on the awards nominations, rather than all the safe and so-called politically correct rubbish. It doesn't matter whether you think Pussycat Dolls or the rest are good, bad or indifferent - they are enormously influential. Skins treads skillfully where others fear, charting its own course well away from the plastic mainstream.

America's most popular TV show is now a theme experience at Disney - way to go !!

2009-02-19T04:18:00.000-08:00

The most powerful reality tv talent quest is hauling in the viewers. Season 8 of American Idol, with some format changes and new judge Kara DioGuardi, is proving a massive hit. The first Results Show of the season pulled in 24 million votes - a massive 10 million more than last year.

Perhaps, then, it is no surprise that such success would spill over into other arenas. And that is just what has happened at Disney World in Orlando, Florida. Following the huge success of both the TV show and the careers of the winners, there is a brand new American Idol Experience at Orlando.

Visitors to the theme park can take part in daily contests - as well as a host of other activities. The opening ceremony of the attraction saw all seven former Idol winners together for the first time. Another highlight was David Cook and Carrie Underwood singing a duet as part of the opening celebrations.

The tv show has revealed the huge importance of both singing talent and personal confidence. A large part of that confidence is whether you can present yourself well. Many of the 12 contestants of the first Live Show this year were let down by poor song choices and nervous jitters. Perhaps a few tryouts at Disney will help future hopefuls!

The first contestant to get bad news was Casey Carlson. When Ryan Seacrest asked Randy Jackson if Casey should stay, he said "No" and the public agreed. Paula Abdul said Alexis Grace did a marvellous job, and the public vote thought the same. Simon also thought similarities with Kelly Clarkson would help Alexis go far - she can certainly growl out the lyrics on a bluesy song.

Wrong song choice and wrong stage craft went against Jackie Tohn and weak vocal style lost votes for Stevie Wright. Although displaying a significant improvement, the vote also went against Ann Marie Boskovich (photo, from left, shows Stevie, Alexis and Jackie). As as you can see from the scorecard below, cutting 9 out of 12 is always going to be harsh.

So with 5 out of 6 hopeful Idol futures decided, how would the vote go for Tatiana Del Torro. When host Ryan Seacrest put Paula on the spot, she reluctantly agreed Tatiana was at risk. The voters agreed, so just Alexis got through the first public examination.

In brief, then, a beautiful smile (Ann Marie) or huge potential talent (Stevie) or even whacky enthusiasm (Tatiana) are not enough this year.

So a fun way to develop your skills may be a visit to Disney World - you may win a load of confidence, or realise the dream is definitely not for you.

Yelena Isinbayeva triumphant - best athlete of 2008 continues to break records

2009-02-16T01:15:00.000-08:00

Russian pole vault champion Yelena Isinbayeva set two world records in one day when she broke her previous record of 4.95 metres set a year ago.

In dazzling form at the Ukrainian city of Donetsk on Sunday, she first took the height to 4.97 metres, then went on to break that record in the next attempt. Her magnificent athleticism then set a new all-time high of 5.00 metres for female indoor pole vault.

The magnificent Isinbayeva also holds the outdoor world record of 5.05 metres, which she set at the Beijing Olympics last summer.

Yelena is a regular participant in the Donetsk tournament, where she has set world records for six years in a row. She has been awarded the title of a honorary citizen of Donetsk.

Isinbayeva was named the Best Athlete of 2008 by the IAAF, and has also been titled Woman of the Year by the Russian edition of Glamour magazine. The 26-year-old was also awarded Best European Female Athlete 2008 by the European Athletics Association.

Yelena has also been named World Sportswoman of the Year by Laureus, and previously took the Female Athlete of the Year award from the IAAF in 2004 and 2005.

Biased Brit Awards Allegations - Again

2009-02-14T10:25:00.000-08:00

The Brit School mafia have pulled another stunt by excluding Leona Lewis from all categories of the Brit Awards except the one they have no control over. The awards are supposed to honour the best, but for years there have been controversial winners and claims of favouritism.

One main clash is over X Factor, with a number of the Brit School mafia (BSM) and their friends being jealous and trying to rubbish the show. Just some of the BSM include Amy Winehouse, Kate Nash, Katie Melua, Adele and members of bands including The Kooks, The Feeling, Another Level, Morcheeba and Damage.

In the category British Single, Leona was announced in the Top 5 after the secret phone voting:

Coldplay – Viva La Vida
Duffy – Mercy
Girls Aloud – The Promise
Leona Lewis – Better in Time
Scouting for Girls – Heartbeat

Other nominations that allegedly lost the Single phone vote were:

Alexandra Burke - Hallelujah
Estelle ft Kanye West - American Boy
The X Factor Finalists – Hero

In the category of British Female Solo Artist the list could be excused only if it included Leona:

Adele
Beth Rowley
Duffy
Estelle
M.I.A.

The nominations for British Breakthrough Act turn both lists into jokes. For example:

Adele was present on MySpace since early 2005, graduated from Brit School in 2006 and toured, recorded and released throughout 2007, even headlining a tour in 2007. How is it that Adele is included in Breakthrough? (The answer is she attended Brit School which is funded in part by the Brit Awards).

Duffy, even older at 24, started singing and writing songs from age 6, and was already singing in bands at age 15, and collaborating with the writer-producer Soren Mounir at age 16 in Switzerland. She was already recording back in 2004.

Never mind the facts, the Brits list is:

Adele
Duffy
The Last Shadow Puppets
Scouting For Girls
The Ting Tings

Here are a couple more facts, this time about Leona Lewis:

debut single A Moment Like This broke world record for most downloads within 30 minutes of release (over 50,000)

second single Bleeding Love was the biggest-selling single of 2007 in UK

Bleeding Love was the biggest-selling single of 2008 worlwide

Bleeding Love topped over 30 international singles charts and has since become the biggest selling single of the twenty-first century by a female

debut album Spirit became the fastest-selling debut album ever in UK history

Spirit went straight to number one on the United States' Billboard 200 album chart, making Lewis the first British solo artist to top the chart with a debut album

fifth UK single Run became the fastest selling digital-only release of all time, after it sold 69,244 in just two days

Please can the Brit Trust explain what more a singer would need to do to be considered Breakthrough by them!

Sorry, but the Brit Awards continue to be a biased club which favours connections rather than talent. And British music will continue to suffer as long as it goes on.

Skins continues to impress and surprise as its young stars get into their roles

2009-02-12T15:15:00.000-08:00

After the crumbling lifestyles of Gossip Girl, how would our Skins team be getting on? Pandora is desperate that Thomas has gone - and she's sure it's love - and all the other stuff, "terrific stuff".

Breakfast with Pandora is wonderful, especially her use of the English language. Yes, okay, the scriptwriters, but Pandora is still a brilliant character.

Meanwhile her mum's infidelity has totally upset Effy, so we are starting to see a more troubled look in her eye. Pandora's way to explain: "Her mum's been making monkey with the funny beard guy and her dad's gone ape" - superb.

Meanwhile, Pandora's party - or at least her mum's hope of a quiet girl's fun time with Twister - becomes somewhat strange as the action takes on as many double-meanings as the words being used. The twins are gorgeous and brilliant in their own different ways, Naomi is so world-weary it's a treat, and Effy's "puppet master" is sorely put to the test when the brownies start taking effect - that would be Katie's spiked brownies.

Meanwhile, Emily and Naomi get to kiss, Cook is stuck in a wardrobe, and the bouncy castle gets a workout. The arrival of Bristol Rovers is disaster for Pandora, while Effy and Cook discover some neighbourhood secrets next door. But the rift between Effy and Freddie is a heartbreaker, although Panda's frolic with Cook when they finally "get down" to Twister is either a ray of hope or a blinding flash of potential disaster.

One show that just gets better episode after episode.
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The Number One TV Show - American Idol - proves image is just as important as talent

2009-02-12T06:38:00.000-08:00

With viewing numbers over twice those of most following shows, the 2009 season 8 of American Idol is already racking up plenty of YouTube moments. The most interesting for Cheerleaders is the occasional battle between Simon Cowell and Kara DioGuardi, which flared at the end of the Hollywood rounds.

In a new twist for the show, the judges introduced an ad-hoc sing-off between two contestants if they were closely matched in style, in singing ability, or some other flight of the judges' fancy.

So we saw Jenn Korbee versus Kristen McNamara (photo shows Jenn on the left) with Jenn first and a rather poor attempt at Dixie Chicks style. Kristen, in contrast, has a huge Whitney voice and was easily the best. Then we got to the nub of the issue.

During the discussion between the judges, Simon asked if they wanted to keep the "very attractive blond girl" or "the other one". There was strong support for “the one who could sing” as Kara put it. So the vote went to Kristen - but not before Paula suggested an image change for Kristen. Wow!

Which was not the usual sort of “girl power” support from Paula. Simon was his usual self, however, and proceeded to have a little hissy fit because he had been outvoted. Double Wow !!

Our earlier post on the cleverness of bikini-girl Katrina Darrell is here.

For a full review of the Judges Mansion decision round, go to Girls Rock !! here.
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Girls win big at the Grammy Awards - in fashion and music

2009-02-10T02:37:00.000-08:00

Whitney Houston looked magnificent and in good humor when she presented the Best R&B Album award to Jennifer Hudson. This was just one of the awards for the girls outdoing the boys throughout the night.

Alison Krauss has won 26 Grammy Awards - more than any other female artist - and has an impressive history of albums, collaborations and soundtracks to her name. The crossover success from country-bluegrass has been improved by the work with former Led Zeppelin ‘power’ vocalist Robert Plant. If you wonder about the way their styles merge, just listen to their version of The Battle Of Evermore.

We were pleased when Please Read The Letter by Krauss & Plant won the prestigious Record of the Year and also glad this stole the award from the ever-limp Coldplay. The duo won other awards too (see below). By the way, all the other nominees this year were women.

All the glitz and glamour of Hollywood was brought on stage when Katy Perry (photo 1) bounced and twirled in a fabulous fruit cocktail of a dress, dancing and singing I Kissed A Girl with energy and humor. Katy was a welcome relief from the dreary performances by one-note copycats Coldplay and the wind-up toys Jonas.

Other girls bashing the boys in the Grammy Awards lists included:

Best Female Country Vocal - Last Name by Carrie Underwood
Best Contemporary R&B Album - Growing Pains by Mary J. Blige
Best Rap Collaboration - American Boy by Estelle

Also of note was the influence of American Idol in today's music scene, with Hudson and Underwood joined by a number of other performances and awards nominations throughout the ceremony. Idol judge Paula Abdul (photo 2) looked striking, as usual.

A special moment was when Jennifer Hudson sang Diane Warren’s You Pulled Me Through and received a standing ovation. Her wonderful gospel voice has all the range and color to carry the emotion and history of powerful songs, which she proved yet again - even after a tragic year for her family.

When Miley Cyrus and Taylor Swift sat together on stage we enjoyed a surprising and tremendous duet. If you had any doubt about Miley’s intentions to be taken as a serious singer, her soaring and strong voice on Taylor's Fifteen was a beacon of her talent - and intent.

The red carpet is very important at the Grammys and Paris Hilton (photo 3) did not disappoint, looking so fit and toned in Versace. Not forgetting we are in America, a country of contrasts, the huge voice of Jennifer Nettles of Sugarland was as clear and crisp as the mountain air.

The Alison Krauss & Robert Plant album Raising Sand also took the Album of the Year award, again beating Coldplay but also thrashing the equally limp metro-sexual boys Lil Wayne and Ne-Yo.

With Rich Woman the duo took the Best Pop Collaboration award, another category dominated by the girls - Alicia Keys, Madonna, Rihanna and Jordin Sparks. Not a surprise, then, when Killing the Blues took the Best Country Collaboration award for this year's star duo, Alison Krauss and Robert Plant.

Overall a spectacular night for the girls and women, leading the music industry from the front with creativity, freshness and strength all the way.
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The girls of Skins out-perform the mainstream soap clones week after week

2009-02-05T15:41:00.000-08:00

The third season of Skins has already made a strong impression, not least the young actresses capable of rich and varied performances. They certainly make the one-trick clones in the mainstream soaps look very poor in comparison.

After the gangster ruckus last week, the storyline became even more involved with the arrival of Thomas and his wannabe relationship with his new world. Effy is soooo cool with her smoking and all, while Pandora is delightful as this season's goofball.

At least, Effy (Kaya Scodelario) was cool until she catches her mum with some bloke while neither of them have many clothes on. Teens have to put up with so much today. Not least the African play rehearsal, witnessed by Thomas. Pandora also discovers that, Blimey, Thomas has super-quick fingers, which "must be handy"

Meanwhile the "sound of the underground" takes on a whole new meaning as the clash of teen cultures totally outwit the halfwit wannabe-crims. Best line is "can't anyone talk 'dangerous' anymore" in the "provincial town" of Bristol. The storylines are wonderfully juvenile but the acting is soooo fine.

Skins is not just a great teen series, it is sure to provide a rich vein of new actresses for the future. Effy (left in photo), the Twins and Pandora are just the tip of the coolberg so far in this series. Can't wait for more.
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The worry is Paris Hilton shines and the British Best Friends are shallow and dull - Blimey

2009-02-05T15:22:00.000-08:00

The Paris Hilton lifestyle is rather different to the understanding of the prospective British Best Friends and that was very evident when they were set a cooking test.

Anyone who thinks Paris is shallow or unintelligent needs to watch this programme. The lack of capability over food, cooking and fashion of the British girls was revealing and worrying.

Next is poise and style, and the BBF's are seriously lacking there as well. This is not just about money and personal grooming, it is also about basic self-awareness and, it must be said, education. If these are representative of the British population we need to be doubly worried.

Meanwhile the cracks are starting to appear, the claws are sharpening and the arrival of a replacement for Cat threw a spanner in the works of the petty cliques starting to form. The intrigue is starting to get quite delicious.

Overall, Meddy was the only one starting to appear like a front-runner, with a combination of cheery enthusiasm and basic common sense. Is she also the most adventurous?

You may also be happy to know that Paris loves her boobs and the secret test of the BBF's honesty revealed a deeper gap between who is genuine and who is all pretence.

We love it. XoXo.

YouTube adds a lot to Skins exposure - season 3 off to a great start

2009-02-02T00:23:00.000-08:00

Skins season three has started with a brace of excellent episodes, and promising some significant storylines. Not least - it appears - will be the changing fortunes of the twins. As you can see from the photo, it's often Katie at centre stage.

Because Katie is so self-assured and self-focussed it appears Emily is a bit of a shadow. However, in episode two the interchange between Naomi (the alleged lesbian) and Emily is perhaps a clue: Naomi says "why does everyone think I'm the lesbian" when challenging Emily.

Skins has never shied away from presenting modern teenage life in English cities and has frequently been a hit on YouTube. Many clips from episodes are available, and in quite a few languages.

It seems Skins is just as popular overseas and, of course, the clips reflect the recent YouTube concerns: Cassie kissing a girl (from series two) with Effy smoking in the background, and Effy smoking in various other season two and season three clips.

In fact there is a whole sub-category of teen girls smoking on YouTube and one for Effy is called "smoking young girl - Kaya Scodelario from Skins" and the script, in passing, sounds a lot more passionate in Italian. The link YouTube

This type of additional exposure for modern progammes, especially those aimed at teens, should make Skins season three the best ever.
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American Idol now top of the charts

2009-01-31T13:22:00.000-08:00

Yes I keep saying that American Idol is important - and that it is the number one tv show in the States - and the results keep backing that up. In total, American Idol songsters have achieved No. 1 on music charts a massive 221 times.

Both the Idol who started it all, Kelly Clarkson, and last year's runner-up, David Archuleta, have No. 1 songs at the moment. In other words the Billboard charts have become home to Idol stars!

Kelly Clarkson's hot new release My Life Would Suck Without You is number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and David Archuleta's Crush is number one on the Hot 100 Recurrents.

We say, welcome back Kelly!

For a more comprehensive review of the auditions so far, go to Girls Rock !!
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90210 still rocks! Kids still mess up! Shannen still smoulders!

2009-01-26T14:36:00.000-08:00

The new season of 90210 has started with the expected drama. "That's what kids here do! They have planes!" Just love those shocks for the Kansas folks.

First up, the good bits. The characters are instantly drawn. We already know the good, the bad, the beauty, the jock and the weird. And look forward to all those first impressions to come tumbling down as the storylines progress.

Then the sets, the gloss, the clothes, the production values, the messy adult lives. It is all so ggrreeaatt.

Right: Jessica Stroup as Silver; Below: Jessica Lowndes as Adrianna and AnnaLynne McCord as Naomi

Next, the catty bits. West Beverly Hills High is a melting pot of self-centred jocks and babes and all sorts of cliques are at play. Annie is already tediously goody-goody and talented and bright, so here's hoping for some even better put-downs.

Then, the worry bits. The drugs are still put across as glamorous.

And finally, the outstanding bits (so far). Silver is great as the wicked, troubled, misunderstood blogger geek. And Silver's ultra-goth sidekick with the laptop previews. And speaking of troubled, can't wait for Shannen Doherty as Brenda (photo, right) to join in some storylines. Trouble on-screen, trouble off-screen - how can we forget. Okay, there was the small matter of Charmed, but that fell apart from personality clashes behind the scenes (you guessed it, Shannen). Can't wait!!

The thing is, 90210 is refreshing after the oh so dreary Lost and Friends and Non-Sex in the City with all the dreary twenty-somethings and their dreary non-stories. This is real life.
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Wild Energy - The Girl That Rocks - New Girl Power from Eastern Europe

2009-01-26T07:55:00.000-08:00

Just in case you missed the past 2 years, there are a host of talented singers now appearing from eastern Europe, not least out of talent shows like Junior Eurovision. Plus exposure and recommendation on blogs and, of course, MySpace, YouTube, imeem and bebo.

Once these singers achieve local success, they gather international fans and, when lucky, support from producers and singers in the USA and UK. If they happen to be photogenic and colourful (Ruslana, top right), so much the better.

Ruslana is, in fact, a huge phenomenon, with fantastic productions for her live shows that take the idea of 'circus' to Cirque du Soleil levels. As she sings "I am the dream you wanna see" there can be few who disagree. Even Missy Elliott enjoys the Wild Energy of Ruslana, joining in on her single The Girl That Rules.

Meanwhile, London has been host to Christabelle Borg from Malta, a young singer who has won nominations and awards at singing festivals, including Eurovision. She has been recording with top producers and we can expect lots of airplay on MTV and, without doubt, YouTube once the word starts to spread. One solid track is I Wanna Know with throbbing bass and sweet vocals over the top.

An evolutionary theory of the importance and emphasis of cleavage

2009-01-26T05:54:00.000-08:00

There are examples of methods of dress which emphasise the size of breasts from the Middle Ages. These styles were developed further in the Victorian age and we now see cleavage everywhere, from weather girls to Barbie dolls.

If we slip back a few hundred thousand years, quite a long time before the Wonderbra, social anthropologists have some suggestions on why our fascination with the female body is hard-wired.

First, the enlarged breasts of humans are unique when compared to other primates. The reasons may include that when we became large, settled communities - rather than hunter-gatherers - physical attraction started to become more important than, say, physical strength.

Over time, various races started to have more distinctions as different preferences were emphasised. Words like voluptuous and desirable could mean quite different body shapes in various regions.

So the full, rounded mediterranean figure was seen by some as more attractive than a tall, hourglass scandinavian profile. Yet in both cases there is strong emphasis on the breasts and, in modern times, the cleavage.

Breast size, per se, is not an independent way to judge "attractiveness", despite some celebrity examples to the contrary. The overall shape of the body is important too, as well as the cup size. But there is an alternative yardstick (except for those obsessed with, say, legs or feet).

The apparent cleavage is the modern imperative. This is also, perhaps, a far more interesting way to look at modern fashion, especially in the street rather than on the catwalk. For the amount of cleavage on display is not just a function of the actual body shape - or breast shape.

As we know from the enormous success of the Wonderbra and its imitators, and the many other cleavage-enhancing clothes styles and undergarments, cleavage on display is seen by both men and women as a sign of confidence and maturity. It is also a potential feel good indicator:

feeling good about my self and my life
feeling good about my self and my current relationship
feeling good about my body and looking for a new relationship
feeling good because those hours in the gym paid off and this bikini looks fabulous

Which brings us to the Oscar Nominations for 2009. As you can see from the three photos, this year's nominees are feeling good about their bodies - and presumably life in general. Your comments are welcome.

The nominations of relevance are:

BEST ACTRESS
Anne Hathaway (photo 1) for Rachel Getting Married
Angelina Jolie (photo 3) for Changeling
Melissa Leo for Frozen River
Meryl Streep for Doubt
Kate Winslet for The Reader

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS
Amy Adams (photo 2) for Doubt
Penelope Cruz for Vicky Cristina Barcelona
Viola Davis for Doubt
Taraji P. Henson for The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Marisa Tomei for The Wrestler
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Style, Grace and Composure - and with thanks to your whole country!

2009-01-25T10:33:00.000-08:00

There are a select few who can keep their composure in extreme competition - or even celebrity competition (everything from the catwalk to Big Brother). Sportswomen who succeed at the most gladiatorial contest are to be respected and praised.

We have, in fact, seen many great champions in various sports - those who save their sheer physical and mental determination to vanquish an opponent but also play by the rules. Here there are no opportunities for backbiting, no speaking to the camera to lie or excuse, no second chances. You win or lose, solely on your skill, talent or sheer grit.

Some could say we have another fine example today, a successful and talented teenager who suffered tremendous obstacles and went into decline - only to return as a wonderful and inspirational woman. Correction, a young woman as Jelena Dokic is only 25 and yet has perhaps only now received the opportunities and success that have been denied her for the past 5 years. The inner steel was plain to see as Dokic overcame setbacks in each of her matches, digging in and willing herself against great odds to succeed.

With marvelous concentration and mental strength Dokic has overcome her ranking of 187 in the world and has reached the quarter finals of the Australian Open. She has captured the hearts of her nation, and some top seed scalps along the way.

Next match will be humdinger, we hope, as Dokic meets Dinara Safina, another wonderful athlete with tremendous style and inspirational approach.
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Vogue on film - access all areas exposes the guts, the glamour, and the boss

2009-01-24T05:30:00.000-08:00

As an industry, fashion accounts for revenue of about $300 billion (yes, three hundred billion dollars) each year. Right at the top of the influencers is Vogue - the magazine, the website, the history. And right at the top of Vogue is Anna Wintour, editor of Vogue for 20 years.

So a film about the inner workings at Vogue is likely to have millions of interested viewers, and that's just those in the fashion industry. Documentary filmmaker R.J. Cutler has his own impressive portfolio of pictures, and has won Emmy and Peabody Awards, and been nominated for an Academy Award. He was given eight months of open access to Anna Wintour and her team and the result, The September Issue, was a feature at the recent Sundance Film Festival.

Wintour has been equally praised and criticised for transforming Vogue with added emphasis on entertainment and commerce, including putting actresses on the cover. And although the fictional The Devil Wears Prada suggests some aspects of the fashion business, perhaps The September Issue shows most clearly that high fashion and business concerns are uncomfortable bedfellows. In the real world where Vogue needs to survive, the distinction between art - the designers, the styles, the photoshoots, the editors - and the necessities of commercial pages become clear.

Photo shows Anna Wintour with daughter Bee Shaffer.

Vogue, then, is both a consumer magazine and a trade journal - perhaps the most influential industry magazine in history. The pages are alive with colour and fashion, yet underneath is probably also the strictest commercial mind at work. The film is highly recommended.
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New Skins - New Girls - New Conquests - A whole new brat pack on screen

2009-01-22T16:08:00.000-08:00

You may already have seen the teaser with the brilliant opening sequence in episode one of the new season of Skins, and the verdict is the rest of the show is just as good. And the language just as blue. The humour just as juvenile. And Effy (more grown up and superbly played by Kaya Scodelario) just as captivating.

Bringing in just about a completely new cast has added great interest as we get to know the characters and their personalities. And, just maybe, here are some of our new actresses that are soon to become accomplished cheerleaders in high heels. A few highlights include the following.

Emily sorting out her clothes, effing and blinding at her peeping-tom brother, clipping her brother around the ear, and generally getting the rough end of life from her twin sister Katy.

Pandora and Effy getting themselves sorted, Naomi Campbell (yes, there will lots of fun with that name) and her troubles with Cook, and the twins, and life in general. Plus Cook's tattoo exposure.

The head's introduction is prescient - no smoking, alcohol, drugs plus, of course, no sex with each other, with teachers, with animals, or any combination of the above, including oral sex or use of sex toys on the premises. Kaya Scodelario as Effy (photos) has other plans.

Snippets of personal background come through in their lines. Cook: It's all about sorting the wheat from the chavs. Katy: Never not had a boyfriend since I was 7. Emily: Never had a boyfriend. Naomi: Hate injustice and people telling lies about me. Teacher: When you've worked out the point of living, please come and tell me.

As usual the boys are chasing the girls. Freddie is sure Effy was looking at him, and that it meant something. Effy: "I look at lots of people, but that doesn't mean I want to get to know them." However, there is hope when Freddie gets Effy's challenge, but Cook and JJ are not far behind in the quest.

Aside from the funny juvenile humour - in the best sense - the standout scenes are with Effy. Her intelligence and observation shine through as she evaluates everyone and starts her plan for school domination.

The filming is like a cross between a fashion shoot and a raunchy music video - no complaints there - and so it looks like the girls have the upper hand and the boys will, well, be boys. As Cook says, "girls like stupid."

No doubt there will be sadness and heartache and shocks, but this first episode of the new season of Skins leaves a great feel-good xxx-factor.
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X Factor winners frolic - but with style and glamour

2009-01-20T03:35:00.000-08:00

Alexandra Burke has been enjoying great success since being crowned the winner of X Factor 2008, and another of the finalists has been alongside Alex quite frequently and, in fact, the two share a house.

Although Ruth Lorenzo has been offered several recording contracts, she cannot sign until her X Factor duties finish. So Ruth and Alexandra have been hitting the high spots - and the beach - in the meantime. Which has been great for photo opportunities for them both, including their basking and playing in the sun in Mauritius.

Ruth will tour in Feb/March with Alexandra and the other X Factor finalists Eoghan Quigg, Diana Vickers, JLS, Rachel Hylton, Daniel Evans and Laura White. So while Alexandra has been doing all her chart-topping star things, Ruth was preparing by gigging around the UK during December.

Meanwhile both Beyonce and 50 Cent have expressed an interest in working with Alex in some way, possibly as a support act on one of their tours and even recording together. But it is early days yet, so we await more news.

Ruth often dazzled in her fantastic dresses which accentuated her voluptuous figure, and it seems Alex and Ruth can have plenty of celebrity fun without being tacky. We applaud, cos sexy does not have to be slutty.
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Sporting Amazons ready to do battle at Australian Open

2009-01-18T03:23:00.000-08:00

Just in case anyone has any lingering doubts about the astonishing power and success of the Williams sisters in tennis, the start of the year at the Australian Open makes their importance very clear.

The top 10 women in tennis in 2009 are dominated by 8 from eastern Europe and Russia. Only the Williams sisters make an appearance for the rest of the world.

Former leading countries like France, Spain, Germany lack leading players, and even the other USA players are way down the rankings overall.

Serena Williams has won the Australian Open 3 times and may be chasing the modern-era records of Steffi Graf and Monica Seles, who won the tournament 4 times each.

Last year's champion Maria Sharapova, also Russian, is still recovering from shoulder surgery, so will not be defending her title.

A final between No 1 seed Jelena Jankovic (top left) and Serena (left) would be a fitting start to the major tournaments of 2009.

We will follow the progress of our favourite Amazons over the next two weeks.

Kate Winslet - "switch on the glamour only when it's needed"

2009-01-16T00:56:00.000-08:00

Winning two Golden Globe awards at the same event does not seem to impose on Kate Winslet at all. In fact, it sounds like Kate can switch on the glamour just as easily as switching it back off - despite usually looking stunning, as our photo shows.

Kate explained in an interview: "To me, you're a movie star only during the time when you're ... at an important glamorous event. It's very much a hat that you wear, and as soon as the event's over, the hat comes off. I'm back to being Mummy, and that's my priority."

Kate also has strong words to say against the British press and their constant negativity. Many other celebrities, politicians and just ordinary folk have also noticed that continual media search for someone or something to knock down.

"What's the big deal?" she says. "If I'm looking good at the moment, just let me look good already! Don't have a go at me just because I'm not the fat person you always thought I was going to be."

Three cheers to Kate for that, and for two more awards, and for being an inspiring actress and person.
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American Idol and the bikini that created new season sparks

2009-01-14T07:46:00.000-08:00

The producers of American Idol must love some contestants, and sparks were definitely flying when Katrina Darrell appeared before the judges in a bikini. America is the land of opportunity, but also marketing, so self-marketing is an art form.

Some contestants are weird - as usual - but one highlight of Season 8 of American Idol 2009 is the introduction of new judge Kara DioGuardi. Phoenix, Arizona, was first on the talent trail, and included a few potential idols. In Katrina's case, a sweet voice and, it must be said, a sweet bod went all the way to success.

Kara almost turned the show into a mini talent quest between herself and Katrina, with them both trading licks - and comments - while Paula tried to act as referee.

But Kara did say that Katrina had an excellent "derriere".

Meanwhile Simon and Randy were pleased with the new season start, while Ryan Seacrest was the object of Katrina's affections - with kissing and "making out" on her mind. So season 8 is off to a great start.

As for Cheerleaders in High Heels, we reckon Katrina Darrell's bikini was just perfect - her heels and bikini style could set a new craze!
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Diane Warren AND Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber - international bestseller?

2009-01-11T22:53:00.000-08:00

Two of the greatest songwriters/composers of all time - 600 million viewers - the musical reputation of a nation - the chilling collapse of recent entrants - a battle against eastern block voting! Although that sounds like an international bestseller, and could be, it is also the quest for the crown of the 2009 Eurovision Song Contest.

In what might be the best Eurovision song ever - whether it wins or not - the UK has harnessed the enormous talents of Diane Warren and Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber in a bid to outwit the opposition.

Just look at the artists Warren has worked with: Elton John, Tina Turner, Roy Orbison, Aretha Franklin, Eric Clapton, Patti LaBelle, Roberta Flack, Barbra Streisand, Whitney Houston, Enrique Iglesias, and Lenny Kravitz.

Just look at some of Warren's famous songs:
I Don't Want To Miss A Thing - Aerosmith
If I Could Turn Back Time - Cher
Because You Loved Me - Celine Dion
How Do I Live - LeAnn Rimes
Un-Break My Heart - Toni Braxton
Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now - Starship

Just look at the recent acts Diane has worked with: Britney Spears, The Pussycat Dolls, Joss Stone, Kid Rock, Christina Aguilera, Kelly Clarkson, Jessica Simpson, Daniel Bedingfield, Mary J. Blige and Leona Lewis.

Of course, Sir Andrew is no slouch either, winner of Grammy, Tony, Golden Globe and Academy Awards. Just a few of his notable compositions include:
Memory - Cats
Don't Cry for Me, Argentina - Evita
The Music of the Night - Phantom of the Opera
I Don't Know How to Love Him - Jesus Christ Superstar

The collaboration and the song could be fantastic. The Eurovision Song Contest 2009 will be held in the Olympic Indoor Arena in Moscow, Russia, in May. The TV extravaganza usually attracts over 600 million viewers worldwide, even from countries not taking part.
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Best Trance Music in the World !!

2009-01-10T08:43:00.000-08:00

Above & Beyond aka Anjunabeats aka OceanLab - they travel the world and play the most amazing venues, yet their music is so solid, so grounded, it can bring you to tears of joy. Their music soars, often with ethereal vocalists, over a rich and deep tone which, at times, appears to hold the whole universe together! Yes, we are big fans - sorry, huge fans.

They have played smallish clubs in the UK and eastern Europe, yet for New Year's Eve 2009 they captivated 1 million (yes, ONE MILLION) fans in Rio de Janeiro.

Tony McGuinness has been a musician and a marketing director at Warner Bros. He often has the contacts and charm to open the door of major stars. Jono Grant trained as a classical pianist and is handy on a guitar too. He met Paavo at the University of Westminster, London.

"We like to think of ourselves as songwriters first," says Paavo Siljamaki, also classically trained (cello and piano). So as well as being very talented songwriters, musicians and DJs, they also shine when producing and collaborating with others. Just a few star names they have worked with include Madonna, Dido and Britney Spears.

In one of the most amazing benefits of the web - and Apple's iTunes - is their weekly podcast, Trance Around the World with Above & Beyond. There is nothing better, and edition 250 is the Top 20 of 2008 as voted by their listeners. It is a wonderful place to start:
go here
But along the way, as you immerse yourself into their music and collaborations, you will find many amazing songs and spine-tingling singers.
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Kelly Clarkson and American Idol return

2009-01-10T04:49:00.000-08:00

While American Idol is gearing up for Season 8, Kelly Clarkson has worked with a host of leading songwriters and producers on her new album. Rolling Stone have heard a preview and have described it as "awesome".

The artwork for the album and the first single have been posted online as teasers, and certainly catch the eye. The album is called All I Ever Wanted and is expected to have 12 songs.

Kelly's first single from the album will be My Life Would Suck Without You and a 30-second snippet released on Kelly's website sounds very promising.

Meanwhile, also on Kelly's website, some 24,000 fans voted for her top songs. The results are revealing as they cover quite a range of styles:
1. Because of You
2. Behind These Hazel Eyes
3. Since U Been Gone
4. Sober
5. Breakaway

Kelly is a great singer and, as her performances over the years have shown - even in front of the Pope - a worthy American Idol winner, and role model.
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Kristen Stewart to rock out as Joan Jett

2009-01-06T23:07:00.000-08:00

Kristen Stewart is set to portray Joan Jett in a rock 'n' roll biopic of the 1970s music scene. Jett will act as an executive producer, and video director Floria Sigismondi wrote the screenplay. Stewart is already lined up for the two Twilight sequels, so the Runaways film could make 2009 a very busy year for the rising star.

The Runaways were different to most other pop acts of the time as they co-wrote many of their songs, were the first all-girl rock band to have significant hits, and sold albums at platinum level (at least 1 million units sold).

All members of the band became respected, especially for the power and skill of their live performances. They started as a five-piece, with guitarists Lita Ford and Joan Jett, bassist Jackie Fox, drummer Sandy West, and singer-keyboardist Cherie Currie. When Currie left, Jett took over the main vocal duties.

The band lasted just four years, apparently falling apart over management and money disputes. The film will revolve around Jett and Currie and follow them from the band's meteoric rise as teenagers, and is expected to cover the eventual problems and breakup.
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Behind every great woman - is another !!

2009-01-03T04:56:00.000-08:00

We know a lot about Mariah Carey and Miley Cyrus, but maybe not a lot about someone who provides great musical inspiration behind the scenes. Antonina Armato has written or produced over 20 Top Ten singles, including songs by Mariah, Bobby Brown and the Sick Puppies. She often works with Tim James, part of the Rock Mafia team who have sold over 100 million albums worldwide.

More recently Antonina has been behind a string of big hits from many Disney teen stars and shows, including Aly & AJ's Potential Breakup Song (on various lists of Top Songs of 2007), Vanessa Hudgens (Come Back To Me), David Archuleta, Jonas Brothers and Miley Cyrus.

Alongside the pop songs Antonina has also written for High School Musical and Hannah Montana, plus a couple of songs for the Camp Rock soundtrack. Also of note is the co-wrting credit with Miley Cyrus on 6 songs on Miley's Breakout album.

Writing successful songs for the Top 40 charts is one of the most competitive and cut-throat careers. So let's recognise a leader in that field.
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Most Stylish 2008

2009-01-01T05:30:00.000-08:00

Katy Perry seemed to enjoy all her looks over this past year, happy to experiment with all sorts of retro and glam style. The cheerful and intelligent singer made great impressions on chat shows and red carpets all over the world. A worthy winner for 2008 as Katy (photo montage) was able to combine cheeky and stylish in a very refreshing way.

Heidi Klum wore a fantastic red Galliano dress to the Oscars earlier this year, and looked radiant - as befits our favourite supermodel.

Charlize Theron is often stunning when she dresses up and at the Venice Film Festival in August she wore a silver, one-shouldered gown that proved, again, she can be one of the most stylish actresses on the planet.

Angelina Jolie had a secret weapon for this year's expectant mom phase: "Cole Haan makes a shoe with a Nike sole," she said at a press conference for the premiere of Kung Fu Panda. "So I have a low heel with a Nike sole and I'm feeling great." Angelina looked great in a custom-made gown from Max Azria Atelier and gold-and-diamond jewels from Bulgari.

Katherine Heigl has been maturing as a actress and can often be seen in classic Hollywood, glamourous style.
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Danica Patrick sets the pace!

2008-12-31T04:35:00.000-08:00

Full-time racing car driver and part-time tv presenter Danica Patrick had a great 2008 and moved up to 6th place overall in the American IndyCar championships. She also won her first race after gaining the podium in three previous races (one 2nd and two 3rd places).

Danica began racing go-karts at age 10, and won several World Karting Association championships. From age 16 Patrick raced in England in Formula Ford and Formula Vauxhall, earning 2nd place in the Formula Ford Festival, the highest finish by a woman in the event. Back in the USA, Patrick won Rookie of the Year for both the 2005 Indianapolis 500 and the 2005 IndyCar Series season.

Along with her popularity in sport, Danica has appeared as a cover girl and featured personality in Sports Illustrated, FHM and Travelgirl. She has also featured in commercials (Honda Civic, Secret deodorant and GoDaddy) and music videos (Jay-Z), plus episodes of American Chopper and Girl Racers.

Danica was recently voted the sexiest athlete in a Victoria's Secret poll, plus made appearances in FHM's annual feature of 100 Sexiest Women in the World.

In the past 4 years of IndyCar, Danica has finished in the Top 10 in half of the races in her career - and that is great going in such a gruelling sport. Just to keep all the other drivers alert, Danica has also achieved pole position in 3 races - again, not an easy task.

Danica Patrick is certainly a modern role model as a style-aware and multi-talented championship athlete.
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There's only two types of guys out there ...

2008-12-10T01:10:00.000-08:00

Ones that can hang with me, and ones that are scared!

So says this year's comeback queen of rock, and Britney Spears looks to be gathering all the right ingredients. Judging by the video for the single Circus (also the title of her new album) and with Bvlgari displayed prominently, seems Britney is hanging with a better crowd again!

Which is great news for all us culture vultures. As all sorts of Number Ones are reached for Womanizer and Circus, perhaps the gutter press (and gutter web) will start concentrating on some glitz and glamour again.

We don't care about who's stumbled - we want leaders walking tall and proud.
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Fantasies in High Heels

2008-08-26T23:55:00.000-07:00

was intrigued to see some fun costumes and at a very high quality :: this costume, called Athena, is available in various parts:

formed aluminum Breastplate with Fluted Bra cups - $1500
aluminum Gorget & Spaulders - $600
fluted Vambraces - $300
leather & aluminum Panties - $200
aluminum Headpiece - $75

all items are available from the Sword & Stone Women's collection, along with other themes: Fantasy, European, Ancient

one rather fine item, or should i say pair of items, expecially caught my eye :: if Max in Dark Angel can run in heels, how about trying these Metal Stiletto Heels:

Genghis Khan

2008-08-25T01:19:00.000-07:00

the largest empire in human history belonged to the dynasty created by Genghis Khan, covering China, most of Russia, most of what we now call the Arabian states, and half of Europe :: the dynasty ended when grandson Kublai Khan engaged in a family squabble

despite much bad press, particularly from former 'colonies' the Mongol empire was built on trust and inclusion as much as fierce fighting :: Genghis understood the empire was too large and varied to achieve 100% Mongolian administration, so he found people from the various regions and countries to assist in the management :: it appears he believed strongly in meritocracy

Genghis Khan brought stability to an enormous area, providing safe communication and trade between the West, Middle East and Asia :: it can be argued all cultural areas received benefit from this period of relative stability :: although tolerant of different religions, the Khan (or Mongol) empire is viewed very differently today, from respect and appreciation in China and Turkey, to loathing in Iran :: the communist regime in Russia also obscured the legacy of the Khans

the Khans were tremendous role models and perhaps it is just my fantasy that they wore high heel boots :: the image of the monument in Hohhot (admin capital in today's Inner Mongolia) gives some idea of the ongoing power of the Khan image

Gothic Lolita

2008-08-24T14:07:00.000-07:00

altho we tend to think of gothic as being medieval and european, and a significant and ongoing source of inspiration for many stylists and designers, the Japanese have created a whole industry around the various subsets:

black lolita (kurorori)
EGL - elegant gothic lolita
GothLoli (gosurori)
grotesque lolita (gurorori)
loli-goth
punk lolita
sweet gothic lolita
white lolita (shirorori)

what i particularly like about gothic lolita is the lifestyle emphasis, particularly the way visual identity overrides other choices :: so music and film and books for GothLoli adherents tend to be far broader than their western counterparts.

where western goths may concentrate on a narrow range of music, almost ring-fencing their 'tribal' choice, asian goths extend and accentuate the quality and style of their clothing, in a way making more extreme statements :: yet they also follow and enjoy a wider range of other popular culture choices, perfectly happy with pop alongside metal, manga alongside Barbie, etc. [image to left is from Moon Kana]

the Tribe theory is one i will return to again and again, as it implies and imbues so much about a person's identity
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Style Inspiration

2008-08-24T09:21:00.000-07:00

like them or not, there have always been style icons :: that is our modern phrase altho there is evidence back thru the centuries of iconography which has been used for inspiration

so whether you get a buzz from Cleopatra, Genghis Khan, Sinatra, Marilyn, Elvis, Kylie or Cruise you will find they were often praised by some and denigrated by others :: in all cases they have captured the imagination of their admirers and often for their personality as expressed in their style