INTERVIEW: ARI GRAYNOR, LAUREN ANNE MILLER, KATIE NAYLON & JAMIE TRAVIS ON "FOR A GOOD TIME, CALL..."

Lauren Ann Miller, Katie Naylon, Ari Graynor & Jamie Travis in Toronto - August 2012

After doing the rounds at Sundance Film Festival this past January where it was well-received, Sex Comedy For a Good Time, Call... now is ready for its release. Toronto-born Director Jamie Travis, Actress/Producer Ari Graynor and Co-Writers Katie Naylon and Lauren Ann Miller (the latter who also stars in the Film) arrived in Toronto late Wednesday to promote what has been a labour of love for the Quartet.

For a Good Time, Call... centers around Frenemies, Katie (Graynor) and Lauren (Miller), both brought together by financial necessity in order to afford their super-fab Apartment in Gramercy Park, following the death of Katie's Grandmother.  The Duo soon find themselves starting their own Sex Line to make ends meet and under the most unlikely of circumstances, they find themselves forming an unbreakable bond. 

What many might not realize about this Story, co-penned by both Miller and Naylon, is that it actually is semi-autobiographical and yes, the latter admits to having worked prior as a Phone Sex Operator. "When you have a friend with you who is as funny and creative as Katie, it's easier. We actually cheated because we started with characters inspired by ourselves and we made a story with characters based loosely on our own archetypes. I don't know if it's officially cheating, but it certainly made things easier.".

Both Miller and Naylon give me the Backstory on their Friendship, which was sparked by a random pairing as Roommates in an off-campus Apartment during their College days at Florida State University.  Naylon admits laughingly, "Lauren didn't judge me as much as I judged her. She was quirky and sure had a lot of requirements - including a clear shower curtain and a sound machine at bedtime".  Miller went-off eventually to Los Angeles, while Naylon headed to New York City to work as a Copywriter. After much convincing and years of mailed Holiday Cards, both of them reunited in Los Angeles.  "We got settled in for a couple weeks, sat in front of a computer and wrote this", says Miller. "Honestly, I feel this is our destiny. It's some kind of magic", adds Naylon.

In addition to a hilarious and flamboyant turn from Justin Long, For a Good Time, Call.. is chalk full of Cameos including appearances by Seth Rogen (Miller's Husband), Kevin Smith, plus two Toronto talents in Nia Vardalos and Sugar Lyn Beard (formerly a DJ on KISS 92.5).  "We wrote lovers letters to all these talented people to get them to play with us", says Miller.  "Making an Independent Movie is about dreaming big and not taking 'no' for an answer.  We kept pushing and pushing and got really lucky.".

ENTER TO WIN A DOUBLE PASS TO SEE "FOR A GOOD TIME, CALL..."

For a Good Time, Call... Official Artwork

For a Good Time, Call... was a hit at Sundance Film Festival earlier this year and now its release is finally before us! The Comedy centers around Frenemies Katie (Ari Graynor) and Lauren (Lauren Anne Miller), who move into the super-posh Gramercy Park area, but to make ends meet, they wind-up starting a Phone Sex Line together. Call me, maybe?   

Justin Long, Nia Vardalos and Seth Rogen star also. Look-out also for a Cameo from Scarborough's Sugar Lyn Beard.  I just saw it today and loved it so much I just might see it again!

Mr. Will-W.:Pop Maven and Alliance Films want to give you a Double Pass to see For a Good Time, Call... before everyone else in Toronto on Thursday, August 23, 2012. And even better, Director Jamie Travis and Writer Katie Anne Naylon will be joined by Stars Ari Graynor and Lauren Anne Miller at the Screening!

To enter, click "like" on this Post at Mr. Will-W.:Pop Maven on Facebook and also be following on Twitter.  Your deadline is Saturday, August 18, 2012. Good luck.

Watch the Trailer below:

AUDIO: A CHAT WITH CHANNING TATUM & JOE MANGANIELLO ON "MAGIC MIKE"

Channing Tatum & Joe Manganiello in Toronto - June 2012

I recently got to sit down and chat with Hearththrobs Channing Tatum and Joe Manganiello on their Box Office Smash Magic Mike here in Toronto and as promised earlier, I'd be posting Audio Excerpts.

Tatum and Manganiello touch upon various aspects of preparing for their roles as Strippers in the the Steven Soderbergh Film and give us a bit of insight also on their own Fame and experiences working together.

ADVISORY: There are Expletives in the Chat, so be warned if listening at-work or around Kids.

Check-out the Chat below:

INTERVIEW: CHANNING TATUM & JOE MANGANIELLO ON "MAGIC MIKE"

Channing Tatum & Joe Manganiello in Toronto - June 2012

A year ago, a few eyebrows might've been raised with the talk of there being a Steven Soderbergh Male Stripper Film in development. Magic Mike as that Film now is known, will soon be revealed - pardon the pun - amidst the 2012 Summer rush of Blockbusters.  I mean, we've all heard of 1995's delicious and unintentionally-laughable Showgirls, but much still is left to be accomplished in Films of the ever-tricky Stripping genre. Stars Channing Tatum and Joe Manganiello (pronounced with a hard "g") both arrived in Toronto today for the Canadian leg of Magic Mike's Press Tour. 

The Dramedy brings together Tatum and Soderbergh a second time, after having seen the release earlier this year of Mixed Martial Arts-inspired Action Flick Haywire.  This time around, the Action we see is of a whole different variety - the variety which surely you might have seen in that Clip on the Internet of Tatum gyrating onstage back in his pre-Actor days as a Stripper.  You know you clicked "refresh" on that. Don't lie.

Magic Mike follows a Man in his 30s (Tatum) who is at a turning point in his life after making quick cash - and stacks of it - as a Stripper.  Although he is successful at what he does, we soon begin to see the repercussions of this choice on his love life and ability to achieve his own dreams as an Entrepreneur. Along the way, we get to know a mix of Characters in his all-male Dance Revue. We meet the Mastermind behind it all Dallas (Matthew McConaughey), Ken (Matt Bomer), Big Dick Richie (Mangniello) and Newcomer The Kid (Alex Pettyfer). Matters become complicated when Mike falls for Paige (Cody Horn - Daughter of Warner Bros. President Alan F. Horn), who happens to be The Kid's grounded Older Sister.

On Horn's Character, Paige, Tatum reveals that her early beginnings in the Film actually are based on his own real-life Sister of the same name.  "She's a beautiful, strong-willed Woman", he tells us. "I didn't have to get my Boys when I got into a fight in the neighbourhood. I'd be like 'Yo! Let me go get my Sister!', drawing laughs from the intimate group of Journalists - some unable to contain their excitement for him. "Huge Fan here", one admits to him.

JOE MANGANIELLO IN TORONTO FOR "MAGIC MIKE" | SIGNED PHOTO GIVEAWAY

Joe Manganiello in Toronto - June 2012

Although he's been a familiar face for the past decade on Television, Actor Joe Manganiello's has never been hotter than right now. Known best for his work as Werewolf Alcide Herveaux on HBO's True Blood, Manganiello arrived in Toronto yesterday afternoon to promote his second of two hotly-tipped Films in 2012, Steven Soderbergh's Magic Mike.  

The Dramedy has him starring alongside Channing Tatum, Matthew McConaughey and Alex Pettyfer as a member of an all-male Dance Revue.  Magic Mike has him playing the Role of Big Dick Richie, a strong, quiet-type who wows the Ladies with a natural ability or two.   Manganiello's last Film What to Expect When You're Expecting had him starring opposite the likes of Jennifer Lopez, Elizabeth Banks, Cameron Diaz and Anna Kendrick.

After an appearance on MuchMusic's New.Music.Live last night, Manganiello was out and about doing Press earlier with Stopoffs at KISS 92.5 and Global Television's The Morning Show.  Cool and casual, he greeted Fans in his long-sleeve Jersey and Sunglasses.  Even the Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Guy driving-by got a little starstruck and did a double-take!

A bit later today, I'll be chatting with the strapping Actor and his equally temperature-raising Co-Star Tatum about working on their exciting new Film, which hits theatres Friday, June 29, 2012 via Warner Bros.  Stay tuned.

In the meantime, with the help of trusty Sidekick Michelle, we were able to get Manganiello to sign a Photo for my Readers!  To enter to win, click "like" on this Post at Mr. Will-W.:Pop Maven on Facebook before Saturday, July 14, 2012 to qualify. You should also be following on Twitter!

(Photo credit: Mr. Will-W.)

INTERVIEW: MARK RUFFALO & COBIE SMULDERS ON "THE AVENGERS"

Mark Ruffalo & Cobie Smulders in Toronto - April 2012

Toronto was lucky enough to host the Canadian Premiere for Marvel's The Avengers and after doing a busy day of Press, Stars Mark Ruffalo (The Hulk/Bruce Banner) and Cobie Smulders (Agent Maria Hill) graced a Fan and Media-lined Red Carpet at Scotiabank Theatre.

Despite running a bit behind, Oscar-nominated Ruffalo navigated the Carpet with great prowess, balancing his time between Outlets and Fans, spending a gracious amount of time signing Autographs and posing for Photos. Dressed a perfectly-tailored Suit and looking in fine form, the Actor is embracing his increasingly-distinguished looks, sporting a few new gray hairs since I last met him in 2008 at TIFF.  

For the first-time ever on-screen, Marvel's The Avengers brings together Superheroes The Hulk (Mark Ruffalo), Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr.), The Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson), Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner), Captain America (Chris Evans) and Thor (Chris Hemsworth), joining them as one force in a fight to save Earth from the ruthless Loki (Tom Hiddleston). Although at this time I am unable to post a Review of the Film, I can say that Joss Whedon masterfully interweaves several complex Superheroes' stories here in an explosive Spectacle.

With the likes of Lou Ferrigno, Eric Bana and Edward Norton having once filled the role of iconic (and destructive) Superhero The Hulk, I asked Ruffalo what unique traits he will be bringing to the table in Marvel's The Avengers. "I'm not sure", he tells me humbly.  "The one advantage I have is that I am the first Actor to play both Bruce Banner and The Hulk, so I hope that brings him alive in ways which CGI alone couldn't.". 

INTERVIEW: THE CAST OF "GOON" - FEATURING SEANN WILLIAM SCOTT, LIEV SCHREIBER, JAY BARUCHEL, MICHAEL DOWSE & MORE

Seann William Scott at the Toronto Premiere of Goon - February 2012

Canadian Director Michael Dowse (Fubar, It's All Gone Pete Tong) premiered his latest Hockey-Comedy back in September at TIFF to rousing reception and now is ready to unleash a "rink of fire" to the masses.  Alliance Films has shown its firm vote of confidence in the distinctly-Canadian Film, touring it over the past week with stop-offs in Vancouver, Winnipeg, Montreal and tonight, Toronto.  

Montreal's Jay Baruchel not only co-wrote Goon together with Evan Goldberg, but also stars in it.  He is said to have been moved to tears by a surprise visit from now-Fiancée and then-Co-Star Alison Pill. The two developed a romance on-set and thus, the Film can be said to be a Labour of Love, in more ways than one. In addition to Dowse and Baruchel, talents David Paetkau, Liev Schreiber and Seann William Scott graced the Fan and Media-filled Red Carpet also at Toronto's Scotiabank Theatre.

Goon centers upon Doug (Scott), a Jewish-Canadian Bouncer and trained Boxer whom after years of struggling to find his niche, gets hired aboard a floundering Halifax Hockey Team as someone whose purpose solely is to help his Team win fights on-the-ice, fully utilizing those Boxing chops. Doug turns out to be a much better at his job than anticipated and this causes some friction within his Team, especially with its Captain of many vices Xavier (Marc-André Grondin), and also a competing team's soon-to-retire star, the tough-as-nails Ross (Schreiber). Along the way, Doug falls for Eva (Pill) whom at first appears emotionally unavailable, but nonetheless he is determined to win her affections. With the support of his Team and Buddy Pat (Jay Baruchel), he enjoys a celebrated, although stormy rise to the top - even if it should come at the expense of his overachieving Parents.

Certainly not lacking controversy, Goon has gained much Media attention of late for both its shocking Posters, showing Baruchel in what might be considered a lewd act, but more so its violent on-ice beatdowns.  A Representative for the City of Toronto has denied that it ordered the removal of the offending Posters namely from bus shelters, according to a probe by The Globe & Mail.

Baruchel poked fun at the situation, performing quickly an encore of the said lewd act for the Cameras, shouting "Here you go, one more time!".  On a more delicate note, I asked Baruchel about how this Film might be misconstrued solely as a tough, violent Film when in fact much of it actually is a Love Story.  "Yes, that's exactly right. I was raised to believe that toughness has nothing to do with being a good person or not", he comments.   "It's also a reaction to a terrifying trend in movies where they're always cynical and always come from a mean-spirited place. I just wanted to bring a happiness and heart back into Films.".

INTERVIEW: THE CAST OF "PROJECT X" - THOMAS MANN, OLIVER COOPER & JONATHAN DANIEL BROWN

Jonathan Daniel Brown, Oliver Cooper & Thomas Mann

"I think it's definitely a Comedy until you turn 35, then it's a Horror Movie", says Oliver Cooper, in Toronto to promote Todd Phillips' latest-produced Comedy, Project X along with his Co-stars, Thomas Mann and Jonathan Daniel Brown. The three young Actors are on the verge of a major breakthrough if Phillips' previous track record as Producer is any indication of success. Old School, Due Date, The Hangover and The Hangover Part II are just a few of the little known Films to which he prior has lent his name.

Project X by first-time Director Nima Nourizadeh, centers around three nerdy High School Seniors who decide to throw a Birthday Bash for Thomas (Mann), led by wisecracking and potty-mouthed Costa (Cooper).  J.B. (Brown) tags along and might deliver a few laughs of his own.  Desperate for popularity, there is no holding back. E-mails are blasted, Text Messages are sent and Craigslist Ads are posted. Before they know it, the Party - which v. loosely is inspired by Australian Party Boy Corey Worthington, among others - spirals wildly out of control, maybe to disastrous proportions.

If it seems that the Boys had a blast making the Movie, well, it's because they did.  Although Joel Silver and Phillips held a nationwide Talent Search to cast for Project X back in 2010, ultimately they found Brown on the Internet through an Open Call, after having auditioned rather late in the process.  Being relatively unknown Actors, how do they stand out in a crowd of Fresh Faces, I ask?  "We're just that good" Cooper jokes, revealing "I've never actually auditioned for anything before.  I had a Friend named Shaun Weiss (also an Actor)  get me an audition for Project X through Judd Apatow, which was really strange because I didn't know what I was doing".  On the other hand, Mann explains "I just submitted through an Agent and didn't really audition, but I'm glad I got it. It was a really long process over several months and we did several mixes and matches.".

CAST OF "PROJECT X" IN TORONTO: THOMAS MANN, OLIVER COOPER & JONATHAN DANIEL BROWN

Oliver Cooper, Jonathan Daniel Brown, Mr. Will-W. & Thomas Mann

How amaze is it that Toronto got to party with the Boys from hotly-buzzed Comedy Project X? Produced by The Hangover Director Todd Phillips, this Story is about three High School Seniors who decide to throw an epic Birthday Bash in the name of Fame.  Craigslist Ads are placed, E-mails are blasted, Text Messages are sent and before they know it, everything soon spirals wildly out of control.  

Breakout Stars Thomas Mann, Oliver Cooper and Jonathan Daniel Brown beat out a group of fresh faces all across the U.S. with a Talent Search held back in 2010 for the $12-million Film.  There is every reason to believe that this Trio soon will become highly-recognizable faces - Nima Nourizadeh's Project X is equally shocking as it is funny... and well, pretty terrifying.  Without a doubt, there will be talk and lots of it.

DANIEL RADCLIFFE IN TORONTO FOR "THE WOMAN IN BLACK" PREMIERE

Daniel Radcliffe in Toronto - January 2012

A major star has descended upon Toronto and both Media and Fans alike had reason to rejoice. It isn't every day Forbes Magazine's Highest-Grossing Actor of 2011 graces the City. 22-year-old Daniel Radcliffe first rose to international recognition in 2001 after landing the coveted role of Harry Potter in what would amount to eight film adaptations of J.K. Rowling's adored Fantasy novels.  Since then, there has been no turning back for London's Radcliffe.  Critics and audiences alike have responded to the Harry Potter franchise, grossing a staggering $7.7 billion worldwide.

Now that his days as Harry Potter have concluded, Radcliffe finds himself stretching his wings in plum assignments. In addition to having starred on Broadway's How to Succeed in Business Without Trying, he now tries his hand at Horror in his first starring role outside the series.  The pressure is on and all eyes also are on him.  The Woman in Black, directed by James Watkins has Radcliffe starring as a young, widowed Lawyer named Arthur Kipps, struggling to make ends meet for his sickly Son Joseph.  Sent to a remote village to settle the affairs of a deceased Woman named Alice Drablow, he finds himself wrapped-up in the mystery surrounding the death of her and her Son Nathaniel, while Families continue to be tormented by her Ghost. As Arthur delves deeper and unravels the details of this eery tale, we fear that he too will fall victim to The Woman in Black.

On what drew him to the role of Arthur Kipps, Radcliffe reveals, "I was really keen on telling the story. I never expected that I'd do Horror. It's never something I thought I'd do.".  He adds, "This story is about what happens when we don't move-on from loss. Arthur has become emotionally-paralyzed, unable to feel and unable to become involved in his Son's life". "The Woman in Black has become consumed by her desire for revenge", and this is what drives the Plot of this Adaptation of Susan Hill's 1983 novel of the same name.

Making his way over to me, an impeccably-dressed Radcliffe shakes my hand in true gentleman-like form.  Although others had jumped-in, his kind Publicist ensured I secured a quick minute with the Megastar. I ask him about his own threshold for fear compared to that of his character Arthur, who brazenly moves forward at all costs to solve this mystery.  He tells me, "That's interesting.  I don't think Arthur is so much brave as he doesn't care if he lives or dies.".  Pondering it further, he admits "I like to think that I'm fairly brave.  I wouldn't make the same mistake of going into that locked room.  Like, what was he thinking?".  Funny.  As an aside, Radcliffe personally rates The Woman in Black an 8.5 out of 10 on a scale of scariness.

See more Photos of Radcliffe on the Black Carpet below:

INTERVIEW: ABIGAIL BRESLIN ON "NEW YEAR'S EVE"

Abigail Breslin

Director Garry Marshall (Pretty Woman, The Princess Diaries) won over Moviegoers at the Box Office with 2009's megastar Opus Rom-Com Valentine's Day and is now ready to unleash his latest effort, New Year's Eve. The Movie intertwines the Love Stories of various New Yorkers, all leading up to the annual Ball Drop at Times Square. What defines this Film ultimately is its stellar Cast including headlining names like Hilary Swank, Michelle Pfeiffer, Sarah Jessica Parker, Halle Berry, Ashton Kutcher, John Lithgow, Zac Efron, Robert De Niro, Katherine Heigl, Josh Duhamel and its youngest Star, Abigail Breslin. The now-15 year-old Actress at the age of seven became the fourth youngest Actress ever to be nominated for the prestigious Oscar with her Breakout Role as Olive in Little Miss Sunshine.

Breslin, flying into Toronto from her hometown of New York City, sat down to chat with a small group of Journalists about her role as the rebellious Hailey in New Year's Eve.  This counts as her third collaboration with Marshall whom she likens to being "like a Grandpa" to her. Hailey's Storyline is about a 15 year-old Girl who sneaks-out on New Year's Eve to be with a Boy named Seth (Jake T. Austin) against the wishes of her watchful Mother Kate (Sarah Jessica Parker).

I asked Breslin what it was like bonding with iconic Sex and the City Star Parker to create a believable Mother-Daughter relationship. Believe it or not, Reality Television brought them together. She tells me, "It was a cold one-week April shoot, but we talked a lot about American Idol during filming and the whole 'who got voted off' thing.  It was fun!".  

Hailey at the price of rebellion gets her heart broken and I asked in real life how Breslin would handle seeing a Boy she likes kissing another Girl.  After pondering it, she says  "It's a tricky situation, so in real life I get where she's coming from.".  Demonstrating true holiday spirit in forgiveness, Breslin says "Seth is a good Guy in the Movie so I'd cut him a little slack in real life.".

Many wonder how Breslin can balance her thriving Acting Career and also just being a 15 year-old Girl.  The Actress currently is enrolled in Online High School, admitting at heart she's a "ten year-old boy", multitasking her affection for Computer Games (Oyunlar 1 is her favourite website) and Studies.  When she is with her Friends she states, "We never really talk about my Career. We mostly talk about Clothes and Guys and stuff like that.".  Breslin also credits her Mother Kim - her Manager - for helping her stay grounded clearly and organized, traveling with her when she films and Press Tours. "Once I get home from filming, I do regular things like clean my room and take the dogs out".

INTERVIEW: VICTORIA DUFFIELD - CANADA'S HOTTEST NEW POP SENSATION

Victoria Duffield

If Victoria Duffield looks familiar to you, well that would be because the ambitious and effervescent 16 year-old from Abbotsford, British Columbia is pretty much everywhere these days. You've seen on her hit Series like Smallville and Supernatural already and now the multi-talented Duffield begins her foray into the world of Pop Music with her debut Single Shut Up and Dance. 

Since hitting the Airwaves here in Canada just over two months ago, the Track already has climbed its way up the Top 20 of the Canadian Billboard Hot 100 Airplay Chart. She also has reached number one on the Emerging Canadian Artists Chart with the Track co-written by herself and fellow Canadian Ryan Stewart.  If you listen to Top 40 Radio in Canada, her Ke$ha/Britney-esque vibe is unavoidable. No complaints here as I love it.

Victoria Duffield & Mr. Will-W.

After having been signed to Warner Music Canada in Summer 2010, Duffield's Music Career has progressed fast and furious.  Fitting in a quick Interview with Mr. Will-W.:Pop Maven today between two performances scheduled at Nathan Phillips Square and Mississauga back-to-back, we got to know about Duffield's love of Dance and her greatest Idol, Britney Spears. Many will be shocked and impressed to know that she attends High School full-time and boasts a 99% Average currently.  Her Brother Burkley Duffield, also an Actor, has been in England for quite some time working on Nickelodeon series House of Anubis and she misses him terribly also we learned.

Watch our Interview with Victoria Duffield in full below:

GOT A QUESTION FOR ABIGAIL BRESLIN?

Still from New Year's Eve

The beautiful and talented Abigail Breslin will be in Toronto Wednesday, November 30 through Thursday, December 1, 2011 for her latest Film, New Year's Eve from Warner Bros. Those of you who saw Box Office smash Valentine's Day and loved it will find every reason to love this Romantic Comedy with a Cast of Megastars! Hilary Swank, Zac Efron, Ashton Kutcher, Sarah Jessica Parker, Jessica Biel, Lea Michele, Michelle Pfeiffer, Sofia Vergara, Katherine Heigl and Josh Duhamel all star in the Film, opening December 9, 2011.

Breslin plays the role of Hailey in Gary Marshall's new Opus and I'll have the pleasure of getting a bit of face time with the Oscar-nominated star of Little Miss Sunshine. Any questions you want me to ask her? Leave a comment and I'll do my best!

(Photo credit: Warner Bros.)

INTERVIEW: KERMIT THE FROG ON "THE MUPPETS"

Kermit the Frog in Toronto - October 2011

"It's tough to work with someone you're close with and turning-on that magic on-screen." - Kermit the Frog, on maintaining a Romance on-and-off screen with Miss Piggy (October 2011)

Toronto gave a Hero's welcome to its favourite acting and singing Amphibian who returned to the same City where he filmed various Specials and The Jim Henson Hour throughout the '70s and '80s. Kermit the Frog flew in from Los Angeles, holding a Press Conference at his Yorkville Hotel in support of Disney's eagerly-awaited The Muppets. Also participating on the Press Tour is Actor/Executive Producer/Co-Writer Jason Segel, who many of us know as the Star of How I Met Your Mother and Forgetting Sarah Marshall.  With fond memories of the City, Kermit (who hasn't aged a day), tells a select group of Journalists moderated by Film Critic Richard Crouse, "It's great to be back".

Richard Crouse & Kermit the Frog

Since being introduced to the World by Jim Henson in 1955, Kermit has captivated the hearts of Children and Adults around the World. In addition to being an internationally-recognized TV and Movie Star, he also is a noted Author who happens to have earned a U.S. Billboard Hot 100 hit with 1979's Rainbow Connection.

The upcoming Musical-Comedy from Flight of the Conchords Director James Bobin, centers around three Muppets Fans who visit Hollywood in search of their Idols only to learn of wealthy Tycoon Tex's (Chris Cooper) plans to destroy the historic Muppets Theater in order to access an Oil Reserve beneath it. Gary (Segel), Mary (Amy Adams) and Walter (voiced by Peter Linz) convince Kermit to gather The Muppets once again after many years apart, for a Reunion to raise money in an effort to save the Theater from its demise.

INTERVIEW: JOHN CHO & KAL PENN ON "A VERY HAROLD & KUMAR 3D CHRISTMAS"

John Cho & Kal Penn in Toronto - October 2011

"It's strange not sitting in a Toyota Camry this time around", Actor-turned-Associate Director of the White House Office of Public Engagement, Kal Penn tells a room of Journalists. "Wait, did you just say Cam-er-ry in three syllables?", asks Co-star John Cho. "Well, I inserted it (the extra syllable) and we can't go back!", Penn snaps back quickly. Such is the playful banter and stuff of Chemistry which has made a hit out of the Duo's $64-million grossing Stoner-Comedy franchise, Harold & Kumar. The two Actors spoke to a few Journalists on their Toronto Press Tour for upcoming A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas, directed by Todd Strauss-Schulson.

In this latest chapter, we see these two Buddies reuniting after having grown apart for a few years. Harold (Cho) has become a Family-focused Businessman, out to impress his intimidating Father-in-Law (Danny Trejo). Kumar is on the verge of being dumped by long-time Girlfriend Vanessa (Danneel Ackles) because of his underachieving ways, which often have him content at home on his couch smoking Pot. With the sudden arrival of a mysterious package at his door over the Holidays addressed to none other than Harold, Kumar is forced to get off his couch and reunite with his long-absent Friend again. One minor thing though. Accidentally, Kumar sets the treasured Christmas Tree on-fire. The same Tree which Harold was given the mandate to decorate. Together, old Friends Harold & Kumar and new - Adrian (Amir Blumenfeld) and Todd (Thomas Lennon) - go on a wild chase to find a replacement a Tree on Christmas Eve, proving ultimately that Harold is a competent Son-in-Law. Easy, right?

INTERVIEW: GAVIN DEGRAW ON "SWEETER"

Gavin DeGraw

In the early hours of Monday, August 8, 2011, Singer-Songwriter Gavin DeGraw was heading home after a night out in New York City's East Village. DeGraw at the time been gearing-up to promote his third release through RCA Records (Sony Music Canada) - Sweeter - with a scheduled stop-off here at Toronto's Molson Amphitheatre on August 22, opening for Maroon 5.

Nobody could have foreseen what would transpire that night - an unprovoked attack by several unknown individuals, resulting in DeGraw being listed under stable condition at Manhattan's Bellevue Hospital. He suffered a broken nose, a concussion, two black eyes and lacerations to his face.   In addendum to the Assault, he had also been struck by a Taxi moments after. Now less than two-months later, he is back and ready to give it his all with the Album which he says, "shook him up".

DeGraw calls me from St. Louis, mine being among the first batch of Interviews he has done to promote Sweeter since his Recovery. Noting how quick his Comeback has taken flight, he tells me "I've been so focused on performing Music I want to play and that's what's carried me through this.". Known best for some of his earlier Hits like I Don't Want to Be and Chariot, he had been torn between making a Pop Album and the Album he truly wanted to make after two years of over-thinking. "My Record Label finally told me, 'fuck everything and just make the Album you want to make and we'll champion it'", bringing him a great sigh of relief. "Sweeter is far better than anything I could've done by myself. It feels like a real collaborative effort because I'd never co-written before it", he admits.

LIGHTS AT TORONTO ALBUM RELEASE PARTY FOR "SIBERIA" | SIGNED PHOTO GIVEAWAY

Lights at Toronto Album Release Party for Siberia - October 2011

Friends, Family and a few select Media were invited out to celebrate the release of Toronto Singer/Songwriter Lights' sophomore studio Album, Siberia from Universal Music Canada. Tucked away in the trendy Ossington x Bloor area, the Party was held at cozy The Piston, which the Juno Award-winning Singer/Songwriter admitted she rather liked, this being her first time there.

Lights' Manager, CBC Personality Jian Ghomeshi, took to the stage and delivered some heartfelt thanks to all those who played a part in her success story, rather excited that in her next round of touring she will be playing larger venues than ever before - an indication of her growing popularity. He also eluded to having been met with some minor setbacks in the process of releasing Siberia, including a change in American distribution and also having to acquire a bit of legal assistance in recent months.  All is well now and ready to go with this Collection of grittier, more progressive tracks, with Ghomeshi praising Lights' vision saying, "She's always been three of four years ahead of everybody else.".  He praised Universal Music Canada for trusting their creative process, which was done independently.

Lights & Ghomeshi

The Singer/Songwriter before beginning her four-song Set, had her Father Eric to thank, telling the intimate group how he had flown-in all the way from Surrey, BC just for the occasion.  Lights gave us a taste of Tracks like Where the Fence is Low (a favourite of her Father), Everybody Breaks a Glass (ft. Shad who performed the track live), current single Toes and also the sublime Acoustic number Cactus in the Valley, which she strummed her Guitar along to.  

Following her performance, both Ghomeshi and Lights herself were gracious enough to walk over and thank me for coming out to show my support. Although she didn't notice, I got a mouthful of her hair in my mouth when we exchanged a hug, which didn't taste... unpleasant!

HUGH JACKMAN, DAKOTA GOYO, KEVIN DURAND & SHAWN LEVY AT CANADIAN PREMIERE OF "REAL STEEL" | SIGNED PHOTO GIVEAWAY

Hugh Jackman at Canadian Premiere of Real Steel - September 2011

The Cast of Real Steel showed their true mettle, coming out to support their new Action/Fantasy Film from Walt Disney Motion Pictures Canada at Scotiabank Theatre. Stars Hugh Jackman, Kevin Durand, Dakota Goyo and Director Shawn Levy flew into the City to do a day of Press, followed by a Red Carpet appearance, where Media and Fans had lined the Theatre wall-to-wall.

As a true testament to their faith in the $80 million Blockbuster, the Cast and Director all sat through the Screening after having seen the Film already multiple times its Toronto-born Star, a 12 year-old Goyo tells me at the bustling After-party held in the Distillery.  He also tells me that he can be heard in next year's Animated Feature, Rise of the Guardians again alongside Jackman.

The thrilling Adaptation of the Short Story Steel takes place in 2020, when Robots have taken over Humans in the sport of Boxing.  Charlie (Jackman) is a former Boxer down on his luck, is reunited with his estranged Son, Max (Goyo).  The two are brought together by their love for Boxing and together they take an Underdog Robot named Atom and get him into fighting form in a match against the invincible Champion, Zeus.

Jackman tells me he is currently busy prepping for the Broadway debut of his wildly successful Hugh Jackman in Concert, which played this Summer at Princess of Wales Theatre in Toronto, making it a priority to visit the City to promote Real Steel.  Asking him how he finds time to balance being a Dad, a Husband and an Actor of Stage and Screen, he tells me looking  rather dapper in a form-fitting Suit, "I love the Movies, Man!  That's how I find the time!".

See this Video Clip below including some questions I asked on the Red Carpet:

INTERVIEW: KEVIN SMITH ON "RED STATE"

Kevin Smith in Toronto - August 2011

Staying true to the motto of a certain Canadian Hockey legend Wayne Gretzky, "Don't go where the puck is, go where it will be", acclaimed Filmmaker Kevin Smith is taking his Idol's advice all the way. Smith surprised many when he had announced recently he would be releasing his latest Film Red State independently, without the support of a major Film Distributor in its theatrical run. Instead, he has opted to tour the mould-breaking Horror Film, which centers around a group of Teenagers who answer an online invitation for Group Sex, only for things to take a dark turn when they encounter a group of violent Fundamentalists.

Prior to its Toronto Premiere last night at Underground Cinema, planted in the outskirts of Chinatown, Red State already had grossed over $1 million in Ticket Sales from Smith's rolling Tour. In addition to this, the Film has sold an additional $2 million in Ticket Sales/Merchandise, in addition to a $2 million in a Streaming/Home Video Deal with Lionsgate Films, plus another $1 million from a Video-on-Demand which will see it on the likes of NetFlix. Smith's greatest challenge in creating this Film was making a $15 million Movie for a budget of $4 million only. And he did it. The Film has proven not only that a Hockey Jersey-loving Smith is a successful Filmmaker, but also a savvy Business Man. Red State despite still not being released theatrically yet, has proven profitable  already for its Investors.  Other Directors including Academy Award Winner Francis Ford Coppola also are following suit, taking his latest work Twixt on the road also, editing the Film on-the-fly for a unique experience for Filmgoers from city to city.

INTERVIEW: ACE.OF.BASE | SIGNED PHOTO GIVEAWAY

Ace.of.Base & Mr. Will-W.

In the late '80s Ulf Ekberg and siblings Jonas, Linn and Jenny Berggren embarked on a collaboration which leave a significant imprint in the world of Pop Music. Göteborg, the second largest City in Sweden, wasn't exactly a hotbed of international talent then, but who knew that this quartet Ace of Base would conquer the world with their 1993 stateside debut, The Sign (alternative title: Happy Nation)? Singles from that Disc went on to top the U.S. Billboard Mainstream Top 40 Chart with three Reggae/Dance Pop singles successively in 1993: All That She Wants, The Sign and Don't Turn Around. By 1995, the Band was nominated for a pair of Grammy Awards, including coveted Best New Artist, plus several Billboard and American Music Awards.

"They jokingly called our music Chinese Reggae", Frontman Ulf tells me after what surprisingly was their first full-length concert ever in Toronto last night on the Canadian National Exhibition’s Bandshell Stage. At 40 years of age, he is tanned, clearly attractive still and full of energy riding on the high of a well-received performance. Sipping from a cup filled from a Steam Whistle dispenser he admits, "To this day I still don't know what Chinese Reggae really means. I think because Chinese Music is melodic more than rhythmic, that’s what they meant because our songs have both those elements in them". He refers to what has become Ace of Base’s signature Sound, an accidental product of both hard work and a chance collaboration with a neighbouring Reggae band in their earlier days.