Wednesday, August 22, 2012

VIVIENNE JOLIE-PITT CAST IN "MALEFICENT"


Teaser Artwork for Maleficent
Looks like the acting bug has been inherited! Just one day after her Father Jon Voight was in the City, it has been announced that Angelina Jolie’s Daughter Vivienne Jolie-Pitt has been cast in Disney’s Maleficent, due to hit theatres March 2014.

Four-year-old Vivienne will be playing a minor role as the child version of Princess Aurora! The live-action Film gives us Backstory to what led Maleficent to curse Princess Aurora in Sleeping Beauty.


(Photo credit: Walt Disney Motion Pictures)

AVRIL LAVIGNE & CHAD KROEGER ANNOUNCE ENGAGEMENT: SEE THE RING!


Chad Kroeger & Avril Lavigne in Toronto (different dates, of course)
Ugh! Did Avril not learn anything I taught her? She was supposed to marry Brody - no pre-nup - get pregnant, cash-in on the Kardashian Franchise, give future Brother-in-Law Kanye West a high-five ...and then move onto the love of her life, Chad Kroeger! Some people are so ungrateful for sound relationship advice! Last time I ever offer to help. LOL

Congratulations on the just-announced Engagement of Pop-Rock Royalty Avril Lavigne and Chad Kroeger of Nickelback. Kroeger actually popped the question on August 8, 2012 with a 14-carat Diamond Ring and the Couple have been together for about six months now, but news has just broken about it and Twitter is going crazy. Don't say you weren't warned, as the Couple were spotted earlier this year in Paris together!

Despite it being a little odd if you consider both were partying together at the MuchMusic Video Awards back in 2002 when she was just 17-years-old (him 27-years-old), time does change everything and now that age gap isn't as big a deal. They actually are a perfect match for one another, come to think about it...  This is how you remind me things aren't so complicated! To years of love and new inspiration...

Hello! Canada got the Exclusive on the Couple's Engagement, with details to come on their September 10th Issue. Kroeger tells the Magazine, “I knew I was falling for her. It was incredibly powerful and something I'll never forget". See the Ring itself after the jump....

Check out the Cover below:

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

ENTER TO WIN A DOUBLE PASS TO SEE "THE POSSESSION" IN TORONTO


Official Artwork for The Possession
Mr. Will-W.:Pop Maven and Alliance Films want to give Readers a chance to win a Double Pass to see The Possession!

Based on a true Story, The Possession is the terrifying Story of how one family must unite in order to survive the wrath of an unspeakable evil. Clyde (Jeffrey Dean Morgan) and Stephanie Brenek (Kyra Sedgwick) see little cause for alarm when their youngest daughter Em becomes oddly obsessed with an antique wooden box she purchased at a yard sale. But as Em’s behavior becomes increasingly erratic, the couple fears the presence of a malevolent force in their midst, only to discover that the box was built to contain a Dibbuk, a dislocated spirit that inhabits and ultimately devours its human host.

Watch the Trailer for The Possession in full here.

To enter to win, click "like" on this Post at Mr. Will-W.:Pop Maven on Facebook before August 25, 2012. You must also be following on Twitter.  The Screening takes place Thursday, August 30, 2012 in Toronto.

Alliance Films release The Possession on Friday, August 31, 2012.


(Photo credit: Alliance Films)

VIDEO PREMIERE: MARIAH CAREY - "TRIUMPHANT (GET 'EM)" FT. MEEK MILL & RICK ROSS


Still from Triumphant (Get 'Em)
She quite literally has never looked better and although I don't think I wound-up loving Mariah's new Single Triumphant (Get 'Em) as much as I thought I would, how can I not support one of my all-time Faves? The Track was inspired by Husband Nick Cannon as he was undergoing his health struggles due to Kidney Failure.

This newly-released Clip sees Mariah sauntering about as a sexy Ring Girl in the Boxing Ring. Believe me, Boxing has never been this bling. Ever.

Although the back-lit theme already was seen in Mariah's The Emancipation of Mimi era, she still looks superb. The Track still has yet to crack the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, although hopefully this is just a Teaser of We Belong Together-worthy excitement to come. Mariah really needs that 19th #1 Single for the sake of the Lambs!

Watch the Video in full below:

ENTER TO WIN A DOUBLE PASS TO SEE "LAWLESS" IN TORONTO


Official Artwork for Lawless
Mr. Will-W.:Pop Maven &Alliance Films are thrilled to give Readers a chance to win a Double Pass to see Lawless, starring Gary Oldman, Guy Pearce, Tom Hardy, Shia Labeouf, Mia Wasikowska and Jessica Chastain.

In the mountains of Franklin County, Virginia, the Bondurant Brothers are the stuff of legend. Times are tough and jobs are scarce, but the Bondurants are Entrepreneurs and have built a thriving local business by concocting an intense and popular brand of moonshine. But Franklin County’s bootlegging days are about to end with the arrival of Special Deputy Charlie Rakes (Guy Pearce) from Chicago. The new “law” Rakes brings is lethal and corrupt and will challenge everything the brothers have built and represent. Determined to do whatever is necessary to fight for what is theirs, the Bondurants take up arms and confront the corrupt forces of the law in a faceoff to determine who controls the wettest county in the World.

The Screening takes place in Toronto, Monday, August 27, 2012.

To enter, click "like" on this Post at Mr. Will-W.:Pop Maven on Facebook. You should also be following on Twitter too!  Your deadline is Friday, August 24, 2012.

Watch the Trailer for Lawless here.

Alliance Films releases Lawless on Wednesday, August 29, 2012.


(Photo credit: Alliance Films)

JON VOIGHT IN TORONTO FOR THE UNITED JEWISH APPEAL


Jon Voight in Toronto - August 2012
Icon. The United Jewish Appeal will be presenting Screen Legend Jon Voight - yes, Father of Angelina Jolie - to launch their 2013 Campaign in Toronto later tonight. The Event is to take place at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel.

Voight, who has been public about his support for Israel, appeared on Global Television's The Morning Show today to talk about the Launch, saying.  Click here to watch the Interview in full (available later today).

I had the pleasure of meeting the v. tall Voight and getting a quick Snap - a true Gentleman, who still at 73-years-old looks every bit the Star that he is.

The Oscar and Golden Globe-winning Actor is said next to be attached to Blockbuster National Treasure 3, alongside Nicolas Cage.


(Photo credit: Mr. Will-W.)

2012 TORONTO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL CELEBRITY GUEST LIST AND SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED!


Megan Fox bracing herself for Fans at TIFF 2011
The day has come! The 2012 Toronto International Film Festival Schedule has officially gone live. Taking place from Thursday, September 6, 2012 through September 16, 2012, Film Lovers from all around the World will unite for the love of Cinema and the love of Stars!

As always, the action is opening weekend-heavy with Galas Argo, The Master, Anna Karenina and The Place Beyond the Pines and The Springbreakers all running in tandem Friday night.  Saturday night will see the star-studded Galas for Silver Linings Playbook, The Perks of Being a Wallflower, Cloud Atlas and Thanks for Sharing.  Meanwhile towards the end of the Festival, those of you who missed-out the first time (as is expected) will have your chance to see additional screenings.

Click here to start planning your Schedule.


In addition, the following Filmmakers are set to appear at this year's Festival:

Monday, August 20, 2012

ENTER TO WIN A SIGNED COPY OF VICTORIA DUFFIELD'S "SHUT UP AND DANCE" - IN STORES NOW!


Official Artwork for Shut Up and Dance
Great news, Victoria Duffield Fans! Courtesy of Warner Music Canada, I am giving away two signed copies of her debut CD, Shut Up and Dance here only.

Many of you I'm sure are familiar with Duffield's first three Singles, the Disc's Title Track, Feel and also Break My Heart. The Abbotsford-born Singer/Songwriter is set to be the next Canadian Pop Princess to dominate the World of Pop and just released her fourth Single, They Don't Know About Us (ft. Cody Simpson).

I've previewed the Disc and absolutely loved it.  Read my Review here.

If you'd like to win a copy of Shut Up and Dance, all you have to do is click "like" on this Post at Mr. Will-W.:Pop Maven on Facebook. Double you chances by Tweeting the following:

@mrwillw wants me to win a signed copy of @VDuffield's new CD, "Shut Up and Dance". In-stores NOW! 

Good luck.

Check-out the Video for Break My Heart and witness her amazing moves below:

ENTER TO WIN A COPY OF "THINK LIKE A MAN" ON DVD!


Official Artwork for Think Like a Man
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment and Mr. Will-W.:Pop Maven are thrilled to give Readers a chance to win a copy of Think Like a Man on DVD!

In-stores Tuesday, August 28, 2012Think Like a Man is a star-studded Comedy based on Comedian Steve Harvey’s Book Act Like A Woman, Think Like A Man. The Box Office #1 Hit will have Viewers roaring as they watch four couples attempt to navigate their romantic waters with the help, or hinder, of Harvey’s Relationship Advice. I've seen it, loved it and couldn't stop laughing. Steve Harvey speaks the Truth.

Think Like a Man stars Gabrielle Union, Jerry Ferrara, Taraji P. Henson, Chris Brown, Wendy Williams, Kevin Hart, Michael Ealy, Regina Hall and many more.

DVD Bonus Features include: Deleted Scenes, Blooper Reel and Laugh-out-loud, Behind-the-Scenes Featurettes!

To qualify, simply click "like" on this Post at Mr. Will-W.:Pop Maven on Facebook before August 27, 2012. Canadian Readers only.

Order a copy here.

(Photo credit: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment)

ONE DIRECTION'S TORONTO POP-UP SHOP


One Direction & Mr. Will-W.
Some important details you need to know about the One Direction Pop-Up Shop in Toronto.  Fans camped-out as early as 24-hours in advance last Friday to secure a spot in-line and it is estimated that there were over 1,000 Fans queued by Saturday's 9:00 AM Grand Opening.

The Shop situated at 680 Yonge Street (two blocks south of Bloor Street), opens till September 2, 2012 and most of the Merchandise there can be found here, so start planning-out your Shopping Lists in-advance!

Keychains, Erasers, Posters, Figurines, Bags, Stickers, T-Shirts, Phone Charms, Bracelets, Necklaces. Everything.

 Store hours are 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.  

Get 'em quick, Directioners!


(Photo credit: Mr. Will-W./Stephen Fernandez)

Sunday, August 19, 2012

CHAMPION ITALIAN JOCKEY UMBERTO RISPOLI IN TORONTO


Umberto Rispoli in Toronto - August 2012
Now who said Horse Racing wasn't a sexy Sport?  Meet handsome Italian Champion Jockey Umberto Rispoli, making a super-rare appearance at Toronto's Woodbine Racetrack earlier today to ride German import Scalo (GB). The five-year-old Horse quite possibly could be using today's sharp third-place finish in the Sky Classic Stakes as a springboard to Canada's richest race, the $1.5-million Pattison Woodbine International this October.

24-year-old Rispoli arrived in Toronto Saturday from Deauville, France where he is based this season after a successful campaign prior in Hong Kong which included a win in their most important race, the Queen Elizabeth II Cup aboard Japanese Star, Rulership.  

Dressed sharply in a Suit, Rispoli was easily identifiable heading-off to Pearson International Airport for an eight-hour flight back to France, stopping to shake my hand and pose for a quick Snap Surprisingly, this Fan of Lady Gaga and Pitbull's English is perfect. Woodbine Commentator Dawn Lupul Tweets me about her meeting the talented Rider saying, "Very nice young man and thankfully his English is better than my Italian!".

Incredible honour. Hoping he'll be back again in October!

Learn more about Rispoli on his official website here.

Check-out Rispoli's ride aboard Scalo (GB) today:

MISS CHINA WINS MISS WORLD 2012



Not only is China slaying it on a global scale with 38 Medals won at the London 2012 Olympics, but now also they are Wenxia Yu was just crowned Miss World 2012 at the Pageant held in Mongolia this year.  I couldn't be prouder of my Heritage!

The 23-year-old is a self-professed Music Lover and wants to work with the Poor.  Miss Wales and Miss Australia placed second and third respectively. 

Click here to see all the Contestants this year.


(Photo credit: Associated Press)

"THE EXPENDABLES 2" OPENS STRONG ON ACTION-PACKED WEEKEND AT BOX OFFICE


Still from The Expendables 2
It was no match for The Expendables 2 at the Box Office this weekend as the Sequel with an all-star Cast debuts at number one for Lionsgate/Alliance Films with $28.7 million, from 3,316 theatres across North America. Audiences and Critics also are responding well with the Film receiving many positive reviews, tallying a 66% on Rotten Tomatoes. This result falls just-shy of the previous Film in the Series, earning $35 million back in 2010 in its opening.

Slipping to second this weekend is Universal Pictures' The Bourne Legacy with $16.8 million, for a two-week total of $69.4 million.

Sony Pictures' Musical Sparkle opens at number three this weekend, with the distinction of being Whitney Houston's last Film ever. It opens with $14 million, already recouping its production costs back. Reviews also have been fairly decent despite perceptions, rating a 55% on Rotten Tomatoes. There is much praise for Mike Epps' performance in the Film.

ParaNorman, from the same Creators as Coraline, debuts in fourth spot with $14 million from 3,429 theatres, with the misfortune of opening on a crowded weekend of new releases. Like Coraline, it has also has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, rating 87% on Rotten Tomatoes.

The Odd Life of Timothy Green which opened mid-week for Disney also had a decent opening in seventh, earning $10.9 million from 2,598 theatres. Its five-day total is $14.9 million.

Hope Springs is proof that there indeed is a market for mature audiences, slipping to eighth spot in its second week with a respectable $8.7 million, a two-week tally of $34.6 million. I did actually see the Rom-Com starring Tommy Lee Jones and Meryl Streep and can vouch that it is entertaining, with strong performances all around.

Total Recall rounds out the Top Ten with $3.5 million in its third week, which surprisingly almost is being out-performed by Hope Springs - also from Sony Pictures - costing about an eighth ($30 million) of what it cost to make Total Recall ($250 million).

On a side note, Toronto-filmed Cosmopolis also has a strong bow in a U.S. limited release. The David Cronenberg Film starring Robert Pattinson earns $97k from three theatres, an average of $24.1k per theatre.

Saturday, August 18, 2012

KARMIN IN TORONTO | SIGNED PHOTO GIVEAWAY


Karmin in Toronto - August 2012
Los Angeles-based Pop Duo Karmin at long last made their Canadian debut at KISS 92.5's Wham Bam, held at Toronto's Molson Amphitheatre Thursday night. First gaining popularity on YouTube with their Cover Versions of Nicki Minaj and Chris Brown's Hits, but they now are a bona fide Success Story of their own with undeniably-good first Single Brokenhearted having cracked the Top 20 of the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 Chart. What makes Karmin unique is their brand of rap-sung Electronic Pop, having left an impression on us with high-profile appearances on America's Got Talent, Good Morning America and Saturday Night Live.

The Husband and Wife Duo of Nick Noonan and Amy Heidemann whom actually are born just two days apart from one another, are absolutely charming and in addition to wowing Toronto the other night at Wham Bam, they also made an appearance on MuchMusic's New.Music.Live yesterday.  Afterward, they appeared at a Live Chat/Showcase organized by Andpop at Gibson Guitar Artist Showroom in Liberty Village last night. Some lucky Fans even got to hang with Nick and Amy at the Canadian National Exhibition afterward!

Heading to Boston this morning bright and early, I caught-up with Karmin. Admiring her signature Suicide Roll - a Hairstyle she made popular by curling her bangs back at great height - Amy tells me I'd look good with one too as many of her male Fans have tried the Look with success.  She admits to being fond of Tiny Tom Donuts and is happy that she and Nick actually got time to enjoy the City in their brief two-day stay. Their curiosity was piqued by the CNE's Chocolate-covered Bacon and perhaps they could be persuaded into trying the Red Velvet Pulled Pork Sandwich too! "We'll be back soon", says Amy. "We don't have a date penciled-in yet, but soon".

Karmin were extremely kind to sign a Photo for my Readers. To win it, simply click "like" on this Post at Mr. Will-W.:Pop Maven on Facebook before September 20, 2012. All are welcome to enter.  Good luck!


(Photo credit: Mr. Will-W.)

Friday, August 17, 2012

DAVID BECKHAM, LANA DEL REY & JOEL KINNAMAN FOR H&M


The Celebrity Faces of H&M
A few exciting new updates from our friends at H&M!  As we all know already, Lana Del Rey is the chosen Face for the Fashion Retailer's Fall 2012 Collection for Women. An amazing Commercial featuring new Track Blue Velvet, directed by Johan Renck, is set to premiere Wednesday, September 19, 2012 on hm.com.  In this Campaign, Del Rey wears key pieces from the Collection, including a pink Angora Sweater, patterned Leggings, a Tweed Biker Jacket and a form-fitting Tweed Dress with leather Details. 

For their Men's Collection none other than a Toronto-bound Joel Kinnaman will be fronting the Collection.  The Swedish Actor stars in Sony Pictures' RoboCop, set to film next month in the City, pairing with Director Jonas Åkerlund on a Commercial for H&M, set to premiere Friday, October 5, 2012 on hm.comKinnaman says, "H&M makes it easy for a guy to look great every single day and create a personal style. Their men’s Collection always gives me a choice of how I want to dress, whether it is sharp in a Suit and Polo-Neck, or more relaxed in Jeans and a Tweed Jacket. That’s why I’m so happy to be the face of H&M this season".  The Retailer also currently is using another Face currently in Toronto, Bill Skarsgård, in-town filming Hemlock Grove.

And what better way to celebrate the massively-successful  David Beckham Bodywear at H&M Collection than with some new Pics?  The international Sex Symbol has just shot another set of Photos with Alisdair McLellan in Los Angeles, soon to be unveiled.  Beckham's Collection is available permanently in 1,800 stores worldwide.


(Photo credit: H&M)

Thursday, August 16, 2012

"THE EXPENDABLES 2" - MOVIE REVIEW


Still from The Expendables 2
 Although it is v. tempting to be a cynic about The Expendables 2, it is almost impossible to deny how ridiculously fun it is. How can one deny the combined legacies of so many legendary talents? Church (Bruce Willis) returns here with an assignment for The Expendables after their Leader Barney (Sylvester Stallone) runs off with some of his money - all $5 million of it. Believe me, Church isn't going to eat the loss on this one.

Joining The Expendables this time around is the likable Maggie (Nan Yu), who with her intellect and poise help the team out after new addition ex-Soldier Billy (Liam Hemsworth) is captured and killed by opposition Leader Jean-Claude Van Damme (Jean Vilain). The Expendables face their toughest assignment yet helping free a village of Plutonium Miners help captive by Jean and his ruthless Men. Along the way, they might even get the help of a few famous old Friends.

In addition to the obvious heart-racing, no-guns-needed action sequences delivered courtesy of Lee (Jason Statham) vs. Hector (Scott Adkins) and also Barney vs. Jean, the One-Liners, Punchlines and Jokes are actually pretty darn clever - kudos to Richard Wenk and Stallone who crafted the Screenplay. Particularly there is one scene where even with little text, the whole theatre can be brought to laughter by the subtext alone beneath something as mundane as a talk about memorable meals. In-on-the-fun Cameos by Chuck Norris and Arnold Schwarzenegger heighten the excitement to a new level; a Fanboy's wildest dream on screen. The fun Motown/Classic Soul Soundtrack although an odd-fit, is a nice touch.

The Expendables 2 builds on the trend of successful Action Films led by its Predecessor and also Red, which cater to a more mature audience, proving that you don't necessarily need a Cast of young, fresh faces to draw-in a crowd at the Box Office. Count me among the legion of The Expendables Fans rather excited for a third installment. Alliance Films releases The Expendables 3 wide on August 17, 2012.

TIFF 2012 TITLES ANNOUNCED (UPDATED)


Still from Looper
Now just over a month away, TIFF 2012 is set to kick-off with the first round of Films premiering in Toronto announced earlier this morning at TIFF Bell Lightbox. Only 60 Titles have been announced thus far, meaning there are several more to come these next few weeks.

As predicted here recently, Looper from Alliance Films will be making its Debut with Opening Night Gala honours. TIFF's Artistic Director Cameron Bailey, says the Film was chosen because it appeals to multiple demographics.  "Feel free to stand up and cheer. It's just a fun opening night Movie!", he tells CP24. The Time Travel Action Flick stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Bruce Willis and Emily Blunt.

Others Films set to premiere include:

Argo - A CIA Specialist helps six Americans who have found shelter at the home of Canadian Ambassador during the Iranian Revolution. Stars Ben Affleck, John Goodman, Bryan Cranston, Clea Duvall and Taylor Schilling.

Anna Karenina - An Aristocrat embarks on a torrid Affair with an affluent Count. Stars Keira Knightley, Kelly MacDonald, Aaron Johnson and Jude Law.

To the Wonder - A Man reconnects with a Woman from his past after his Marriage to a European Woman falls apart. Stars Ben Affleck, Rachel McAdams and Jessica Chastain.

Silver Linings Playbook - A former Teacher who was institutionalized, returns home to reconcile matters with his Ex-Girlfriend. He meets a mysterious Woman with her own problems. Stars Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence.

The Master - A Drama set in the '50s about a Man whose Faith-based Organizations begin to catch-on with the help of his Right-hand Man. Stars Philip Seymour Hoffman, Amy Adams and Joaquin Phoenix. 

The Sessions - A Man with an iron Lung contracts a Sex Therapist to help him lose his Virginity. Stars Helen Hunt, William H. Macy and John Hawkes.

End of Watch - Two young Officers are marked for death after confiscating a small amount of Money and Firearms. Stars Jake Gyllenhaal, Anna Kendrick and Michael Pena.

Imogene - A Woman fakes Suicide to win back her Ex-Boyfriend, only to wind-up having to care for her Gambling-addicted Mother. Stars Kristen Wiig, Matt Dillon, Annette Bening and Natasha Lyonne.

Song for Marion – An elderly Man gets a new lease on life with the help of a Choir Leader. Stars Terence Stamp, Vanessa Redgrave and Gemma Arterton.

What Maisie Knew – A seven-year-old Girl is caught in a custody battle between her Parents, a Rockstar Mother and Drug Dealer Father. Stars Julianne Moore, Alexander Skarsgård and Steve Coogan.

Emperor – The fate of a Japanese Emperor is in question at the end of World War II. Stars Matthew Fox and Tommy Lee Jones.

The Hunt - A Kindergarten Teacher is falsely accused of Child Abuse. Stars Mads Mikkelsen and Thomas Bo Larsen.

The Place Beyond the Pines - A Motorcycle Driver considers committing a Crime to provide for his Wife and Child. Stars Ryan Gosling, Eva Mendes, Robert DeNiro, Rose Byrne and Bradley Cooper.

Quartet - A Comedy about three Seniors in a Home for retired Opera Singers. Stars Maggie Smith, Billy Connolly and Michael Gambon; Dustin Hoffman directs for the first time.

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

VIDEO PREMIERE: BRANDY FT. CHRIS BROWN - "PUT IT DOWN"


New Promo Photo for Brandy
Brandy’s back and October 16, 2012 has been confirmed as the release date of her upcoming Disc, TWO ELEVEN. Although a Collaboration with Monica a few months proved not to be anywhere near as epic as it appeared on paper, the Singer/Actress just premiered the Video for her new Single, Put it Down (ft. Chris Brown). The Track was co-written by Brown, Bangladesh and Sean Garrett.

Regardless of my personal opinions about Chris Brown, the Track is by all means solid and I’m more than happy to see one of my fave ‘90s R&B Stars back in the game.

Check-out Put it Down below:

ENTER TO WIN A DOUBLE PASS TO SEE "HIT AND RUN" IN TORONTO


Official Artwork for Hit & Run
Former Getaway Driver Charlie Bronson (Dax Shepard) jeopardizes his Witness Protection Program Plan to get his Girlfriend Annie (Kristen Bell) to Los Angeles, causing the Feds and Charlie's former Gang Members to chase them on the road.

Written and co-directed by Dax Shepard, Hit and Run also stars Bradley Cooper, Kristin Chenoweth, Tom Arnold and Beau Bridges.

Mr. Will-W.:Pop Maven and Alliance Films want to give you a Double Pass to see an Advance Screening of Hit and Run before everybody else in Toronto on Wednesday, August 22, 2012.

Click "like" on this post at Mr. Will-W.:Pop Maven on Facebook. You must also be following on Twitter too. Your deadline is Saturday, August 18, 2012.

Alliance Films releases Hit and Run in theatres August 24, 2012.

Watch the Red Band Trailer (NSFW) below:

"THE ODD LIFE OF TIMOTHY GREEN" - MOVIE REVIEW


Still from The Odd Life of Timothy Green
After struggling to conceive, Jim and Cindy Green (Joel Edgerton and Jennifer Garner), one stormy night decide to bury a box in their Backyard containing every possible trait they'd want in a Child. With the sprinkle of a Storm and the blowing of the wind, ten-year-old Timothy (CJ Adams) surfaces in their lives suddenly, bearing many of the traits they had wished for, adopting Jim and Cindy as his Mom and Dad.

Faced with the challenge of incorporating Timothy into their lives - including explaining his sudden presence to Family and Friends - Jim and Cindy are delighted, yet painfully aware of their own insecurities as new Parents. The Boy too faces his own struggles in adapting to life in his Town as the odd one out. 

As the mysterious leaves which sprout from Timothy's legs begin to fall, he goes on to touch the hearts of those around him, learning what it means to love and be loved. Faced with the pressures and expectations of being the Son whom his Parents want him to be, we see the Couple begin to lose sight of what it means to be a Family. Will they figure it all out before Timothy decides to reveal to them his deepest Secret?

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:

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

VICTORIA DUFFIELD - "SHUT UP AND DANCE" ALBUM REVIEW


Victoria Duffield - Shut Up and Dance
All hail the new Princess of Canadian Pop! Although Victoria Duffield still neatly can placed in the Emerging Artists category, with just the right amount of push, she could well be Canada’s next big international Export. Case in point, Carly Rae Jepsen already has proven her mettle abroad and Duffield equally has what it takes to accomplish this. In the v. least she is collaborating with the right names. Ryan Stewart, who is responsible for some of Jepsen’s recent material, co-writes with Duffield on this stellar and compact eight-track debut, Shut Up and Dance.

Since being teased late 2011 with the undeniably catchy Title Track, my curiosity has been piqued by the 18-year-old Singer from Abbotsford, BC. Although second Single, a Kylie-inspired Feel, went over the heads of the Canadian Public failing to achieve the same level of success as Shut Up and Dance, its standing as a quality piece of Dance-Pop remains untarnished.

Current Single, Break My Heart is a cut from the same cloth as Duffield's Debut, channeling inflections of Femme Fatale-era Britney. Duffield’s genius as a Pop Artist here perhaps comes from the one word she doesn’t sing in the Track's Hook, “I know you're only gonna break my ____”. It is impossible to not want to fill in that blank and furthermore, it is impossible to not want to sing along.

A catchy Duet with Aussie Pop Sensation Cody Simpson, They Don’t Know About Us, opens many possibilities in terms of exposure for her and is strategically-spotted. Sweet Fantasy borders a bit on Mariah Carey/R&B-Pop territory and is another Gem in this Collection of Winners. Meanwhile, Final Warning leaves us wanting more by the end of this just-long-enough introduction to Duffield.  Keep in mind, we still haven’t heard the best of Duffield yet and I can vouch that she is the real deal live - a real Pop Star.

V. Duffield, v. good. Warner Music releases Shut Up and Dance in Canada, August 21, 2012.  Order it here

I did have the pleasure of chatting Duffield over the Winter. Click here for more.