New ‘Chronicles of Narnia’ film in the pipeline
TriStar, the Mark Gordon Company and Entertainment One have signed on to finance the next adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ “Chronicles of Narnia” book series. The feature, titled “The Silver Chair”, will take place after the events of “The Voyage of the Dawn Treader”, when Prince Caspian has become King Caspian, with “Life of Pi”and “Finding Neverland” writer David […]
Bloomsbury announces tie-in books for Potter prequel movie ‘Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them’
The publishing house Bloomsbury Children’s Books will release several tie-in books on the release day of the movie “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” on November 18. “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them”: the book and the movie Inspired by JK Rowling’s 2001 book of the same name, the movie (also known as […]
Countdown to the release of Amy Schumer’s memoir ‘The Girl With the Lower Back Tattoo’
Publishers Gallery Books (Simon & Schuster) announced the book’s August 16 launch date back in March, and now the wait is nearly over for Schumer’s large fan base. An award-wining comedian… Amy Schumer first came to the public eye in 2011-2012 when she came fourth on the reality TV competition “Last Comic Standing,” having been […]
Anne Hathaway tributes ‘The Princess Diaries’ on anniversary
Fifteen years ago on August 3, 2001, teen comedy film “The Princess Diaries” released to North American cinemas, and lead actress Anne Hathaway hasn’t forgotten its impact on her life or that of countless others. “It’s been 15 years (say it with me) SHUT UP!!!!!” Anne Hathawaywrote on Instagram, quoting one of the film’s best-known […]
J.K. Rowling confirms end of Harry Potter’s story
Renowned author J.K. Rowling has confirmed Harry Potter’s story will not continue, with the two-part play “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” marking the end of the road for the character. The play, which opened to rave reviews over the weekend, is set 19 years after the franchise’s final novel, “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows,” […]
5 rules for optimal nutrition by celebrity trainer David Kirsch
Celebrity trainer David Kirsch is well-known for his work with A-list models and actresses such as Heidi Klum, Kate Upton, Liv Tyler, and Anne Hathaway. In his latest book, “Ultimate Family Wellness,” David shares his own story of balancing fatherhood with fitness, and gives his expert advice on how to work out and eat well with the whole family. […]
‘Meathead’ Goldwyn shares his foolproof recipe for Buffalo chicken wings
Meathead Goldwyn is known as “the barbecue whisperer.” His website, Amazingribs.com, is billed as the world’s most popular outdoor cooking website. His recently released cookbook “Meathead: The Science of Great Barbecue and Grilling,” has risen quickly to become the No. 1 bestselling cookbook in the category of Barbecue and Grilling on Amazon.com. For the crispiest Buffalo […]
Foods to eat for heart health by celebrity yoga teacher Mandy Ingber
In her latest book, “Yogalosophy for Inner Strength“, Mandy Ingber, yoga teacher to Jennifer Aniston, looks at how the practice of yoga, along with meditation, self-care, nutrition, and even music, can help everyone maintain optimum wellness and find resilience even during the most stressful and trying times. Here Mandy shares her top tips on how to nourish […]
‘Meathead’ Goldwyn shares his recipe for The Great American Steakhouse Steakburger
Meathead Goldwyn is known as “the barbecue whisperer.” His website, Amazingribs.com, is billed as the world’s most popular outdoor cooking website. His recently released cookbook “Meathead: The Science of Great Barbecue and Grilling,” has risen quickly to become the No. 1 bestselling cookbook in the category of Barbecue and Grilling on Amazon.com. For foolproof burgers this […]
‘Ghostbusters’ fans set Guinness World Record
The world record for the largest gathering of people dressed as ghosts has been broken. Hundreds of fans have descended on the Event Plaza at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore in ghost costumes. The event, organized by Sony to promote the film franchise’s upcoming reboot, was adjudicated by Guinness World Records representative Rishi Nath who […]
Oscar winner Brie Larson in talks to play Captain Marvel
Brie Larson is being eyed to bring one of Marvel’s most popular female superheroes to life on the big screen. According to Variety, Larson, who just won the best actress Oscar for her role in “Room,” is the frontrunner for the role. The film script is being penned by “Inside Out” scribe Meg LeFauve and […]
Vogue releases new 60s-inspired coloring book
British Vogue has announced that Vogue is to release its second fashion-inspired coloring book, “Vogue Goes Pop.” The news continues the trend for adult coloring books and follows the success of Vogue’s first coloring book released last year, which featured hand-drawn illustrations inspired by the fashion magazines of the Fifties. This time around the book takes on […]
‘Books Across America’ gets books in hands of young children with help from ‘The Dr. Oz Show,’ UPS, Scholastic, and The National WIC Association
Sacramento, Calif.— On Wednesday, May 25, “Books Across America” launches with “The Dr. Oz Show,” UPS, Scholastic, and the National WIC Association (NWA), a nationwide book drive and week-long campaign, May 25 to May 31. The drive aims to get books into the hands of children across the country ages 0 to 5. The campaign […]
Fil-Ams to hold centennial celebration for NVM Gonzalez
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA – Friends, colleagues and former students of Nestor Vicente Madali Gonzalez, better known as NVM Gonzalez will remember him at a Centennial Celebration on Saturday, May 21, 2016. The event will be held at the Echo Park Branch Library located at 1410 W Temple Street, Los Angeles from 2-5 p.m. NVM was born […]
Coach Dalupan book ‘The Maestro’ makes triumphant US debut
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Basketball fans flocked to the Romulo Hall of the Philippine Embassy on 28 April 2016 to witness the US launch of the book, “The Maestro of Philippine Basketball,” which chronicles the life and career of legendary coach Virgilio “Baby” Dalupan. “Coach Dalupan was not only a coach but a mentor, and an inspiration […]
Is Michael Fassbender ‘Entering Hades’?
Versatile Oscar-nominated actor, Michael Fassbender is in talks to play real-life serial killer, Jack Unterweger The film, “Entering Hades” is based on John Leake’s book about Unterweger, an Austrian journalist who led a secret double life – when he wasn’t investigating crimes, he was committing them. He murdered 11 people before being caught. According to Variety, the […]
Virtual reality film of Anne Frank’s story confirmed
A virtual reality film which will take viewers inside Anne Frank’s secret annex has been confirmed reports The Hollywood Reporter. The possibly controversial new film, “Anne”, will tell the story of Anne’s experience inside the annex whilst hiding from the Nazis during World War II. The film’s technology will give viewers the chance to be “immersed […]
Jack Huston and Emilia Clarke set to star in Phillip Noyce’s ‘Above Suspicion’
Jack Huston and “Game of Thrones” actress Emilia Clarke have been confirmed to star in the Philip Noyce thriller “Above Suspicion” reports Deadline. The film will be based on the book by New York Times columnist Joe Sharkey, which tells the true story of a newly-married FBI agent who after been assigned to an Appalachian mountain town in Kentucky starts […]
‘The Jungle Book’ tramples competition at the US box office
Three new movie releases failed to best Disney’s “The Jungle Book,” which trounced the competition at the US box office during its third weekend with $42. 4 million, industry estimates showed Sunday. With a domestic total of $252 million and a global take of more than $685 million, the live-action “Jungle Book” continues Disney’s hugely […]
Alicia Vikander’s ‘Tulip Fever’ gets summer release date
The period drama starring Alicia Vikander, Dane DeHaan and Christoph Waltz will open in theaters on July 15, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Oscar-winning actress Alicia Vikander (“Anna Karenina”, “The Danish Girl”, “Ex Machina”, “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.”) will play a married woman in 17th-century Amsterdam who falls in love with the character of DeHaan (“Kill your […]
Lonely Planet releases guide to national parks of America
Lonely Planet has released a new title in honor of the 100th anniversary of the US National Park Service this summer, covering all 59 parks in a single guide. Lonely Planet’s “National Parks of America” is a hardcover edition that features landscape photography and original wildlife illustrations of the country’s 59 national parks. The book […]
Shakespeare compilation that saved ‘Macbeth’ put on sale
A rare compilation of Shakespeare’s complete works was shown off before sale by Christie’s auction house on Tuesday in the week that Britain celebrates the 400th anniversary of the legendary playwright’s death. The “First Folio” was published in 1623 — just seven years after Shakespeare’s death — preserving “Macbeth” and 17 other works that were […]
Batman and Superman attractions coming to theme park in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi will be the set of a new $1 billion theme park that will feature popular superhero characters such as Batman and Superman, as well as the world’s first Warner Bros. branded hotel. The Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi theme park will be built on Yas Island, already home to the world’s first Ferrari-branded […]
Production now underway on Scarlett Johansson’s ‘Ghost in the Shell’
Paramount Pictures and DreamWorks Pictures have confirmed that production has now started on the upcoming film adaptation of “Ghost in the Shell.” Based on the famous Kodansha Comics manga series, the comics were previously brought to the big screen by Mamoru Oshii in his iconic 1995 Japanese anime film. This new adaptation sees Rupert Sanders of “Snow White […]
Chef Ferran Adrià creates Disney-inspired recipes for kids
What do you get when you cross legendary Michelin-starred Spanish chef Ferran Adrià with fictional and animated Disney characters? Recipes like chickpeas and spinach, fit for a Jedi, eggplant padawan, and The Jungle Book juice. It’s an unlikely and surprising partnership. Kind of like a storyline about a Paris rat cooking at a fancy, gastronomic […]
Gwyneth Paltrow’s latest cookbook aimed at busy super moms
Gwyneth Paltrow lovers and haters are likely keeping an eye out for her latest cookery book, this time aimed at the health-conscious, “super-busy home cook.” “It’s All Easy: Delicious Weekday Recipes for the Super-Busy Home Cook,” published by Grand Central Life & Style, features 125 of Paltrow’s favorite recipes which she claims can be made […]
Michelin launching guide in Seoul signals rise of neo-Korean cuisine
News that Michelin will be launching its first hotel and restaurant guide for Seoul is the latest sign pointing to the city’s burgeoning fine dining scene and rise of neo-Korean cuisine. In a few weeks, the bustling South Korean capital will be crawling with anonymous Michelin inspectors, who possess the power to pronounce which restaurants […]
World Book Day – Nanie Guanlao and his free library in Manila
In the Makati district of Manila in the Philippines, there’s a large sign outside the front of an otherwise unassuming house stating “free reading to the public”. Over the last fifteen years, Ernando ‘Nanie’ Guanlao has transformed his home into a library, open to anyone and everyone. Starting with only 100 books, the 63 year-old former accountant has […]
JK Rowling working on ‘Fantastic Beasts’ trilogy
JK Rowling has confirmed on her Twitter account that she is working on a trilogy of “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” films. The three films are a spin-off of her “Harry Potter” series. The “Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them” trilogy is set in New York City and takes place 70 years […]
Production of ‘The Dark Tower’ begins
Production on the film version of Stephen King’s “The Dark Tower” has begun, reports Entertainment Weekly. The movie version of King’s eight-novel series has been in the works for some years now. Actors Idris Elba and Mathew McConaughey have been confirmed as having lead roles in the movie by writer Stephen King on hisTwitter account. […]
‘Fifty Shades’ dishonored at anti-Oscar Razzie awards
Erotic drama “Fifty Shades of Grey” triumphed Saturday at Hollywood’s hall of shame, the annual Razzies anti-awards show. The steamy romance — described as a “warped, disturbingly abusive adult fairy tale” by movie website The Film Stage — took the Golden Raspberry Award for joint worst picture alongside superhero flick “Fantastic Four.” The big screen […]
Scarlett Johansson narrates ‘Alice in Wonderland’ audio book
Scarlett Johansson has lent her voice to an audio version of Lewis Carroll’s “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland”. The Hollywood star teamed up with Audible.com and her sister, narrator and director of the project, Vanessa Johansson, on the audiobook. “Having grown up loving the story of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and reading many books aloud with […]
Transgender female model lands industry’s first magazine cover
After making fashion history to become the first transgender model to get a Vogue spread, Andreja Pejic now holds bragging rights to becoming the first transgender model to land a fashion magazine cover with Marie Claire Spain. Pejic graces the March cover of Marie Claire Spain, in a knit slip dress that shows off her […]
Disney details more ‘Star Wars’ Land features
A new “Star Wars”-themed land, being prepared for Disneyland in California and Walt Disney World in Florida, was teased with some extra information during TV retrospective “The Wonderful World of Disney: Disneyland 60,” which aired Sunday night. The new theme park attraction is being modeled after a “remote, outpost planet” where it will be possible […]
‘Hidden Figures:’ Taraji P. Henson follows Golden Globe with NASA biopic
Golden Globe winner Taraji P. Henson is being linked with a lead role in an upcoming film adaptation of “Hidden Figures,” the story of a team of NASA mathematicians who proved essential to the Space Race. Few may have known her name until recently, but NASA mathematician Katherine Johnson was an integral part of the […]
Keira Knightley in talks to star in ‘Colette’
(Relaxnews) – Keira Knightley could be set to star in the upcoming biopic “Colette”. The UK actress is in talks to play the role of the famous French writer in the biopic of her life set in the 1900s, Deadline reports. “Keira is impeccably suited to step into the role of the iconic Colette in the early […]
Watch: New trailers for ‘Batman v Superman’
(Relaxnews) – A series of new trailers has dropped on Twitter revealing more clips of the epic cinematic showdown between Batman and Superman. Warner Bros. released two teasers giving both heroes airplay to state their case: Superman describes Batman as a “bat vigilante” and “one-man reign of terror” while Batman describes Superman as a threat […]
Vatican cookbook dishes on favorite papal dishes
(Relaxnews) – Want to eat like a pope? A cookbook featuring dishes eaten at the Vatican is set to be released in English after first being released in German in 2014. In addition to shedding light on the types of meals eaten by members of the Swiss Guard — elite soldiers who protect the pope […]
The top books of 2015 according to Barnes & Noble
(Relaxnews) – Bookseller Barnes & Noble has released its picks for the top books of 2015, in categories that include the best celebrity memoirs, books that got people talking, novels waiting to be made into big screen adaptations and best-sellers. In the category of books with staying power, titles chosen include everything from Anthony Doerr’s […]
‘The Wizarding World of Harry Potter’ theme park announces opening date
(Relaxnews) – Universal Studios Hollywood has announced that the “immersive experience” will open on April 7, 2016. Universal Studios Hollywood announced the opening date of the Harry Potter-inspired park, featuring the wizarding school Hogwarts, the magical village of Hogsmead, a Hippogriff rollercoaster and more. The park, located at the Entertainment Capital of L.A, contains eight retail […]
Shailene Woodley to star alongside Nicole Kidman and Reese Witherspoon in HBO series
(Relaxnews) – Shailene Woodley rounds out the casting for the HBO series “Big Little Lies” that will also star Reese Witherspoon and Nicole Kidman. During an appearance at the Hindustan Times Leadership Summit in New Delhi over the weekend, Kidman confirmed that Woodley has been cast to star in the series adapted from Liane Moriarty’s […]
Luc Besson enlists Ethan Hawke for sci-fi film ‘Valerian’
(Relaxnews) – Ethan Hawke is the latest cast member to join the production of Luc Besson’s “Valerian.” Besson announced the news on Instagram over the weekend, saying he’s wanted to work with Hawke for years. Hawke joins Clive Owen, Rihanna, Cara Delevingne and Dane DeHaan in the adaptation of the French sci-fi comic strip series […]
‘Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice’ trailer released
(Relaxnews) – Following a teaser on Monday, the first full trailer for “Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice” was released on Wednesday night during “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” The trailer gives more insight into the movie, providing a rough storyline and developing characters. In the trailer, we see Batman and Superman feuding before they are forced to […]
Jennifer Garner to join Bryan Cranston in ‘Wakefield’
(Relaxnews) – Actress Jennifer Garner (“Daredevil”, “The Dallas Buyers Club”) has been confirmed to star opposite Bryan Cranston in “Wakefield” drama, according to Variety. Directed by Robin Swicord (“Memoirs of a Geisha”, “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” and “The Jane Austen Book Club”), “Wakefield” follows the story of a married lawyer (Cranston) who has a nervous […]
British Airways and Barcelona win big at NatGeo Traveller UK reader awards
(Relaxnews) – Barcelona beat out Paris and Rome to take the title of favorite short-haul city destination among readers of National Geographic Traveller UK. In their inaugural reader awards 2015, the British edition of NatGeo asked readers to vote for their favorite destinations, airlines, hotel groups, attractions and travel website. The arresting, surreal and whimsical […]
Broth is making a comeback among health conscious and French gourmets
(Relaxnews) – Broth may have fallen out of fashion, but this light and nutritionally rich soup has been making a comeback in the last few years and is all the rage this winter among the health conscious while it has also returned to the menus of several top French chefs. Brodo, the first broth bar […]
Final ‘Hunger Games’ film hits big screen
(Los Angeles-AFP) – The fourth and final film in the blockbuster “Hunger Games” series — a dystopian fantasy saga that turned Jennifer Lawrence into a Hollywood mega-star — hits the big screen this week and is expected to catch fire at the box office. “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2” will bring to a […]
First look: Eddie Redmayne in ‘Fantastic Beasts’
(Relaxnews) – A first image from J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter prequel film, “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them,” has just been revealed. The cover of the latest issue of Entertainment Weekly reveals an exclusive image of Eddie Redmayne as Newt Scamander, an eminent magizoologist who searches for magical creatures in the wizarding world and […]
Trailer: Chris Hemsworth in ‘In the Heart of the Sea’
(Relaxnews) – Ron Howard’s “In the Heart of the Sea” has a final trailer ahead of its December 11 US release, revealing more details of the survival story. Chris Hemsworth stars in the film, which is based on a book by Nathaniel Philbrick that tells the true story behind “Moby Dick.” Benjamin Walker, Cillian Murphy […]
Transylvania is Lonely Planet’s top vacation destination for 2016
(Relaxnews) – On October 29 Lonely Planet will publish its “Best of 2016”, a compilation of travel destinations that will attract a lot of attention next year. Ten regions will gain in popularity, starting with Transylvania in Romania, where the city of Cluj-Napoca is looking forward to meeting art fans and its Airbnb hosts are […]
‘Ronaldo’ documentary available worldwide on November 10
(Relaxnews) – Just 24 hours after its world premiere in London, the feature about the life of Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the world’s greatest living footballers, will be available to own on DVD and in digital formats in 75 countries. The documentary, made by the people behind critical and commercial hits “Senna” and “Amy” took […]
43 stories by 43 women by former Theresians
Los Angeles – A unique collection of personal essays titled Portal (Gateway to Adventure) will be launched on October 11, 2015, Sunday at 3 in the afternoon at the posh Del Rey Yacht Club in Marina del Rey, California. Forty-three stories by forty-three women who are all graduates of St. Theresa’s College, an exclusive girls’ school in the […]
Lonely Planet curates weekend wine getaways around the world
(Relaxnews) – Travel guide Lonely Planet has released a new guidebook for wine lovers that curates the best wineries and gastronomic experiences in established regions like Napa and Tuscany, as well as lesser-known areas like Georgia, Lebanon, Morocco and Slovenia. “Lonely Planet’s Wine Trails” is aimed at travelers interested in a quick wine-soaked getaway, with […]
Lonely Planet releases new children’s travel guide of the world
(Relaxnews) – Lonely Planet is set to release a new collection of travel books created to inspire curiosity and wanderlust in children while they’re still young. In “The Travel Book: A Journey Through Every Country in the World,” each country is given a page spread that teaches kids about its unique culture, language, food and […]
Jennifer Lawrence linked with ‘Red Sparrow’ thriller
(Relaxnews) – Joining the spy novel adaptation means Oscar winner Jennifer Lawrence would reteam with “The Hunger Games” director. “Red Sparrow” is based on the 2013 Jason Matthews novel about a young Russian agent who is sent to undermine the efforts of her CIA equivalent. She then ends up being recruited by the US intelligence […]
Karen Gillan to join ‘The Circle’ cast
(Relaxnews) – Scottish actress Karen Gillan (“Guardians of the Galaxy”) has joined the cast of “The Circle” in a starring role, Variety reports. The upcoming film, an adaptation of Dave Eggers’ novel of the same name, also stars Tom Hanks, Emma Watson and John Boyega. The story looks at the challenges of life in the […]
‘The Hobbit’ trilogy comes back to theaters in October, with extended editions
(Relaxnews) – All nine hours of “The Hobbit” trilogy will be shown in US theaters in October for an event including never-before-seen additions. Fathom Events, New Line Cinema, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures and Warner Bros. Pictures are joining forces to screen the entire trilogy of J. R. R. Tolkien’s “The Hobbit”, directed by Peter Jackson. The event, […]
Guinness World Records fetes its 60th anniversary
(Relaxnews) – On Thursday, August 27, the world’s undisputed record-keeper and archive of history fetes its 60th anniversary. In addition to the release of the 60th edition of the book next month, Guinness has been building up to the milestone with a special video series featuring some of the biggest — figuratively and literally — records set, […]
Japanese etiquette taught to tourists
(Relaxnews) – The city of Kyoto has launched a guide intended for foreign tourists in an effort to keep them from committing etiquette mishaps. In Japan, good manners are taken very seriously, especially if you are a tourist. Kyoto, located in the center of Honshu Island, is a tourist haven: visitors flock to the island […]
British Vogue gets its own documentary on the BBC
(Relaxnews) – As the 2009 movie “The September Issue” put US Vogue on the Hollywood map, the BBC Two channel has commissioned what it’s calling an “observational documentary series” on the British version. Two episodes of 60 minutes each are scheduled to air in 2016 — the same year as British Vogue’s centenary — reports Women’s […]
Food Network star Katie Lee shares her BLT Ranch burger recipe
(Relaxnews) – You could call Katie Lee the younger version of Ina Garten, with her shingled, beach house in the Hamptons, love of all things French, and penchant for throwing easy, breezy summer soirees in her elegant garden. This summer Lee shares some of the recipes that make recurring appearances in her kitchen and backyard patio […]
Lonely Planet to release new cookbook series
(Relaxnews) – Lonely Planet has announced plans to expand their travel-related food coverage with the release of a new cookbook series that aims to transport readers around the world via their taste buds. For the series, dubbed “From the Source,” Lonely Planet dispatched local food writers in destinations such as Italy and Thailand to scour […]
Food Network star Katie Lee shares her recipe for strawberry brownie cake
(Relaxnews) – You could call Katie Lee the younger version of Ina Garten, with her shingled, beach house in the Hamptons, love of all things French, and penchant for throwing easy, breezy summer soirees in her elegant garden. This summer Lee shares some of the recipes that make recurring appearances in her kitchen and backyard patio […]
“Ant-man” tops North American box office
(Los Angeles-AFP) – Marvel action flick “Ant-Man” stayed atop the US box office Sunday, edging out retro videogame comedy “Pixels” in estimated weekend North American ticket sales, industry data showed. “Ant-Man,” starring Paul Rudd as superhero Lang Scott, pulled in more than $24.7 million, less than half what it took in its opening last week. […]
A 5-minute primer to ‘Paper Towns,’ a coming-of-age drama with Cara Delevingne
(Relaxnews) – High school student Quentin is plunged into a carefully constructed manhunt when neighbor Margo takes him on a night of hijinks and promptly disappears. Here’s your primer on the blockbuster-in-waiting from the “Fault In our Stars” author John Green. – Why the fuss about this film? – Set in Orlando, Florida, “Paper Towns” […]
‘The Kitchen’ star Katie Lee shares her tips for easy summer entertaining
(Relaxnews) – When Katie Lee describes her idea of summer entertaining, she conjures up long, languid days in the Hamptons and simple but elegant dinner parties that turn peaches into table centerpieces and humble ingredients into stars. It’s a charmed life she leads. Lee, 33, co-host of The Food Network’s “The Kitchen,” lives in the […]
Joseph Gelito: Channeling Kapitan Tiyago
By Nimfa U. Rueda At a time when the use of digital technology are hampering people’s attention spans, entertainer Joseph Gelito has had to be very creative with his stage antics. He dazzles his audiences with killer punchlines and sizzling one-liners. His comedy shticks with drag queens are outrageous. This Saturday, he will embark into […]
Elodie Yung to star in Netflix series ‘Marvel’s Daredevil’
(Relaxnews) – In the second major casting announcement in one month for “Marvel’s Daredevil,” Elodie Yung is to play Elektra. It’s for season two of the series, which is to release on Netflix in 2016, according to Deadline Hollywood. Yung’s resume includes “GI Joe: Retaliation,” and “District 13” and “Ultimatum.” As a castmember of “Marvel’s Daredevil” […]
Watch: Nicolas Cage trying on his Superman suit
(Relaxnews) – Never-before-seen footage of Nicolas Cage as Superman has been unearthed and posted online by the LA Times. The video, which shows an incredibly lean-looking Cage trying on an all-blue super suit that he would have sported in the 1998 film “Superman Lives,” has come to light. In 1997, Cage signed on to play the […]
Mark Zuckerberg’s ‘A Year in Books’ hits halfway point
(Relaxnews) – Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg started his book club back in January, setting out to read a book every two weeks and inviting others to do the same. This week he revealed the club’s latest title — while admitting that his initial goal may have been a lofty one. Zuckerberg announced his plans via Facebook on […]
‘James Bond’ Bentley up for auction
(Relaxnews) – A 1953 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback once owned by Ian Fleming could start a bidding war at this year’s Gooding1 Company Pebble Beach auction on August 15. With its displays of incredibly exotic, incredibly expensive classic cars, its fine dining, stunning Californian scenery and high society clientele, the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance is […]
President Barack Obama says peas in guacamole not a good idea
(Relaxnews) – A New York Times tweet for a guacamole recipe made with peas has succeeded in sparking a Twitter outcry, with the Republican Party of Texas calling it tantamount to a declaration of war on their state, and even provoking President Barack Obama to weigh in on the discussion. “Add green peas to your […]
Stage production of Harry Potter to open in London next year
(Relaxnews) – Fresh details have emerged on the stage-version of Harry Potter, including the name, venue, and opening date. In addition to the Harry Potter spinoff “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” due to hit theaters in 2016, J.K. Rowling has also been working on a stage adaptation of the series which now has […]
Fifty Shades of Grey sequel sells 1.1 million copies days after release
(Relaxnews) – Within days of being published, E.L. James’ hotly anticipated sequel, “Grey: Fifty Shades of Grey As Told by Christian” has sold more than 1.1 million copies in paperback, digital and audio form. In a statement to “The New York Daily News,” publisher Vintage Anchor said it’s ordered third, fourth and fifth printings of the […]
‘Extraordinary Tales’ to get Halloween release
(Relaxnews) – A new animated feature and one of the last films to star the recently deceased icon of horror, Sir Christopher Lee, is heading for US cinemas this October. An anthology of five suitably dark Edgar Allen Poe stories, the animated feature is directed and adapted for the screen by Raul Garcia, whose work […]
Rare Imelda photos in coffee table book
LOS ANGELES – A coffee table book that shows Imelda Romualdez Marcos beyond the public eye through old, mostly unpublished photographs taken by veteran news photographer Emmanuel “Jolly” Riofrir will be formally launched on Saturday, June 13, during the Tacloban town fiesta celebration at the UFCW hall at 8530 Stanton Ave., Buena Park, CA 90622. […]
Thai superstar Bie Sukrit to lead cast in the world premiere of ‘Waterfall,’ an epic new musical; Show to run May 29, 2015 to June 28, 2015
PASADENA, CA – The Pasadena Playhouse (Artistic Director Sheldon Epps) announced today that, Thai superstar Bie Sukrit, along with Emily Padgett, Thom Sesma, and J. Elaine Marcos will lead the cast of the world premiere of WATERFALL, an epic new Broadway bound musical love story, featuring a distinguished international creative team and a cast of […]
‘I am Cait’: Jenner docu-series to roll out in July
(Washington-AFP) – Caitlyn Jenner will follow up on her public coming-out as a transgender woman with a docu-series on E! channel next month about her transformation from life as Olympic decathlon champion Bruce. “I am Cait” will play out in eight hour-long episodes beginning July 26, the cable television entertainment channel said Wednesday. It said […]
Harry Potter’s Wizarding World gets California call-up
(Relaxnews) – The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, a successful theme park attraction at Universal Studio’s Orlando and Osaka locations, is set to open at Universal Studios Hollywood in Spring 2016. A replica of wizardry school Hogwarts will contain well-received theme park ride “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” which, in this instance, will be […]
Adaptations bringing Bill Bryson, David Foster Wallace, Macbeth to screen
(Relaxnews) – Bookworms have several upcoming movies to look forward to, with new trailers out this week revealing Robert Redford as author Bill Bryson and Jason Segel as David Foster Wallace, plus new clips of Michael Fassbender as Macbeth making the rounds following the Cannes Film Festival. “A Walk in the Woods” Based on Bill […]
Todd Haynes eyeing ‘Wonderstruck’ adaptation
(Relaxnews) – The director of “Carol,” which premiered at the Cannes film festival over the weekend, is reportedly looking to take on an adaptation of a children’s book by Brian Selznick. According to Screen Daily, Selznick himself has adapted his book “Wonderstruck,” which focuses on two intertwining narratives set 50 years apart: one, from 1977, about […]
Eighth episode of the Star Wars saga to shoot at legendary Pinewood Studios
(Relaxnews) – British politician George Osborne announced Monday via Twitter that the upcoming installment of the illustrious space saga will be filmed at the UK’s Pinewood Studios just outside of London. Because Monday, May 4 is a bank holiday in the UK, Pinewood Studios could not be reached for comment, according to the Hollywood Reporter who […]
The force is strong in the latest issue of Vanity Fair
(Relaxnews) – Annie Leibovitz shot cover for the new issue feautres Han Solo and Chewbacca alongside new characters Fin and Rey. With the exception of the official teaser and first trailer no official on-set images of stills of the “Force Awakens” shoot have been published, but that could all be about to change. For this […]
Netflix says ‘Daredevil’ season two is a go
(Relaxnews) – It’s only been a fortnight since its premiere, but Netflix has already renewed Marvel series “Daredevil” for season two. Starring Charlie Cox, Rosario Dawson and Vincent D’Onofrio, season two of the superhero drama will begin in 2016, Marvel confirmed. The widely popular show will also see some behind the scene changes. Showrunner Steven DeKnight […]
Pearson’s ‘I Don’t Know How She Does It’ getting sequel
(Relaxnews) – A sequel is on the way for UK author and journalist Allison Pearson’s “I Don’t Know How She Does It,” which was made into a movie starring Sarah Jessica Parker. Pearson’s 2002 novel revolved around the character of Kate Reddy, who struggled to balance career and family. The film adaptation was released in […]
Rooney Mara joins cast of ‘Lion’
(Relaxnews) – US actress Rooney Mara is joining Nicole Kidman and Dev Patel in the cast of “The Lion.” According to The Hollywood Reporter, the movie is to begin filming in Australia in mid-April after several weeks on location in India. In addition to Mara (“The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo”), David Wenham (“Top of the […]
Space, the next frontier for ‘Insurgent’ author
(Los Angeles-AFP) – Cult US teen author Veronica Roth has come a long way in only a few years. And it seems her next step — at least, in a literary sense — will be into space. The 26-year-old published her debut novel “Divergent” in 2011, launching a dystopian trilogy that has been turned into […]
Global box office: ‘Cinderella’ is the belle of the ball
(Relaxnews) – Now showing in 32 territories, Disney’s latest adaptation of the classic fairy tale claimed the top spot at the worldwide box office for the weekend ending March 15. Kenneth Branagh’s feature has a wide lead over the competition with its $132.4 million in global revenues over the period. Meanwhile, “Kingsman: The Secret Service” […]
Listen to the new song from ‘Frozen Fever’
(Relaxnews) – Disney has released the new song that features in “Frozen Fever,” the digital short that hits theaters Friday alongside “Cinderella.” “Making Today a Perfect Day” is sung by Idina Menzel and Kristen Bell, the voices behind Queen Elsa and Princess Anna and recounts how the sisters are trying to plan the perfect celebration […]
Tim Burton continues with live action children’s story streak
(Relaxnews) – Prior to signing on for live-action remake project “Dumbo,” Burton has already found success balancing a selection of youngster’s tales with the darker material that helped established his signature style. James and the Giant Peach (1996) Based on the 1961 Roald Dahl novel about an unhappy orphan boy and a fruit tree growing […]
‘Divergent’ fever? Other dystopian teen fiction to feed your fandom
(Relaxnews) – Veronica Roth, author of the “Divergent” trilogy, has a new book coming in 2017. In the meantime, what is a teen fiction fan to do? As the second “Divergent” film, “Insurgent” hits theaters this month, the trilogy’s scribe has announced she’s got two books on the way. The first, said to be “in […]
Polish castle to set the scene for real-life wizarding school
(Relaxnews) – Fans of the Harry Potter series and the magical arts have launched a crowdsourcing campaign that aims to bring a College of Wizardry to life, and — if all goes well — turn a castle in Poland into a permanent school of sorcery. Within three days of being posted on crowdfunding site Indiegogo […]
Spider-Man to join Marvel’s crossover action movies
(Relaxnews) – A renewed agreement between Sony and Marvel will see Spider-Man segue into a Marvel Cinematic Universe film before the next “Amazing Spider-Man” film is out, its release date now set for July 28, 2017. It will be Spidey’s sixth feature film in 15 years since the Sam Raimi “Spider-Man” trilogy started in 2002 […]
First Lady of food Michelle Obama graces cover of ‘Cooking Light’ magazine
(Relaxnews) – Dinner at the White House starts at around 6:30 pm. And while the dining table may be bigger and someone else is doing the cooking, First Lady Michelle Obama says their family tradition remains largely unchanged. These are among the tidbits from an interview in the forthcoming issue of Cooking Light entitled “Family […]
Listing for ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ condo dashes hopes of fans
(Relaxnews) – Airbnb raised — and then promptly dashed — the fantasies of “Fifty Shades of Grey” fans after putting up a listing for a luxury apartment in the same condo as its sexy, fictional hero, Christian Grey. In advance of the film release of the erotic novel, Airbnb posted a listing that offered up […]
Curtis Stone restaurant and bao bun eatery among best new restaurants 2015
(Relaxnews) – Editors at Travel + Leisure magazine have compiled a list of the most exciting new restaurants around the world for 2015, chosen for being based in what the magazine calls 11 of the most compelling food capitals of the world. They’re “neo-traditionalists, upstart iconoclasts, and ingredient obsessives” that are setting new culinary standards, […]
Young trio join ‘X-Men: Apocalypse’
(Relaxnews) – Jean Grey, Cyclops and Storm have been recast as part of a new generation of superheros in 2016’s next “X-Men” film. Director Bryan Singer broke the news on Twitter, introducing Sophie Turner, Tye Sheridan and Alexandra Shipp in key roles. Turner will play telepath Jean Grey aka Phoenix (previously Famke Janssen), Sheridan the conventional […]
Billy Burke to play a vet on CBS drama ‘Zoo’
(Relaxnews) – The actor seen in the “Twilight” movies and on the NBC series “Revolution” has landed a recurring role on “Zoo,” the new drama series set to join “Extant” and “Under the Dome” on CBS this summer. Adapted from James Patterson’s thriller novel, “Zoo” focuses on a global wave of unexplained and violent animal […]
Observation deck of One World Trade Center named top new attraction 2015
(Relaxnews) – Travel experts at Lonely Planet have named the opening of the observation deck at the One World Trade Center in New York the most anticipated new travel experience of 2015. Set to open this spring, the observation deck will give visitors sweeping views of Manhattan from the 102nd floor. The new attraction is […]
Worldwide box office: the reign of the ‘The Hobbit’ continues
(Relaxnews) – The latest installment in Peter Jackson’s trilogy took in $74.4 million during its fourth weekend in theaters, bringing its cumulative revenues to $700 million. A distant second is “Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb,” Shawn Levy’s third film starring Ben Stiller as the security guard at a museum where the displays […]
Fantasy epic ‘The Hobbit’ casts spell on box office
(LOS ANGELES-AFP) – Tolkien epic “The Hobbit” weaved its magic at the North American box office this weekend, signaling a farewell to the blockbuster fantasy franchise, industry estimates showed Sunday. The last of six films adapted from J.R.R. Tolkien’s books by Oscar-winning director Peter Jackson, “The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies” took $56.2 […]
US, Italy and India lead CN Traveler’s hotel Gold List 2015
(Relaxnews) – According to the arbiters of taste at CN Traveler magazine, Italian, Indian and Californian hoteliers are the most likely to go above and beyond the call of duty. Because when asked to name their favorite hotels around the world for the 2015 edition of the Gold List, decision-makers gave nods to 11 addresses […]
Another J.K Rowling novel headed to the BBC
(Relaxnews) – The BBC will air a drama series adapted from “The Cuckoo’s Calling,” a novel published in 2013 under J.K. Rowling’s pen name Robert Galbraith. The book, the first in a new series, follows Cormoran Strike, private eye and war veteran. Strike helps John Bristow to unravel the mystery surrounding the death of his […]
Lonely Planet names Queens best US destination of 2015
(Relaxnews) – Brooklyn? Fuggedaboutit. Editors at travel guide Lonely Planet have declared Queens New York’s hottest borough, and the top US destination for 2015. The latest edition of Lonely Planet’s Best in the US list forecasts the destinations that have made their radar for exciting food scenes, adventures and unusual attractions, and for celebrating major […]
‘Suicide Squad’ cast revealed, with Jared Leto as the Joker
(Relaxnews) – Warner and DC have finally revealed the composition of their supervillain team. Confirming earlier rumors, the studios announced that Jared Leto, Will Smith, Margot Robbie, Tom Hardy, Jai Courtney and Cara Delevingne will star in “Suicide Squad.” Warner and DC have assembled an all-star cast to bring the antiheroes from the comic books […]
Natalie Portman in talks to join Jobs biopic
(Relaxnews) – Natalie Portman is in talks for the female lead in the upcoming Steve Jobs biopic penned by Aaron Sorkin (“The Social Network”), according to Deadline. The movie adapting Walter Isaacson’s biography of the Apple co-founder is to be directed by Danny Boyle (“Trainspotting,” “Slumdog Millionaire”). Earlier this week, the biopic was picked up […]
Stephen King’s ‘The Stand’ to get four instalments
(Relaxnews) – The Josh Boone adaptation of Stephen King’s “The Stand” has been given the go-ahead to become a four-part movie franchise rather than a single 3-hour epic. Having written up a compressed, non-linear version of the story for Warner Bros. with the aim of creating a “single three-hour movie,” Boone told theHollywood Babble-On podcast (via SlashFilm) […]
Miss America 2001 launches memoir about fairy tale beginnings … and endings
Get ready for a faith-based, roller coaster ride with the first Asian-American Miss America, as she reveals how she tackled fame, depression, suicide, and adversity of the most universal kind. (Los Angeles, Calif., November, 2014) Angela Perez Baraquio, the first Asian-American and first teacher to be crowned Miss America in 2001, breaks her silence in her […]
‘Oldboy’ director Park Chan-wook to helm sci-fi thriller ‘Second Born’
(Relaxnews) – Around one year after releasing “Stoker,” the South Korean filmmaker will soon direct his second English-language film. A sci-fi thriller, “Second Born” is set in a futuristic world in which humans store their consciousness on neural microchip implants, enabling them to inhabit different bodies while retaining their own personality and memories. The technology […]
‘Wonder Woman’ film taps ‘Breaking Bad,’ ‘Game of Thrones’ director
(Relaxnews) – Frontrunner for the director’s position on “Wonder Woman” is Michelle MacLaren, who has steered “Breaking Bad,” “The Walking Dead” and “Game of Thrones.” Having directed eleven episodes over four seasons of AMC’s “Breaking Bad” run, MacLaren also has considerable experience as a producer on both “Breaking Bad” (for which she won two Emmys) […]
‘Insurgent’ teaser adopts apocalyptic tone
(Relaxnews) – Shailene Woodley’s Tris is tasked with rescuing her mother (Ashley Judd) in a brief teaser clip for March 2015’s “Insurgent,” the second film adapted from “The Divergent Series.” The trailer hits just as pre-release excitement is peaking for this month’s “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1.” Based on the trilogy written by […]
‘Heidi’ adaptation set for international distribution
(Relaxnews) – Alpine children’s story “Heidi” looks set for international success with “Heidi and the Magic Pool” featuring Bill Nighy, Anna Friel and Greg Wise. Johanna Spyri’s 1880 novel “Heidi” serves as inspiration for the latest cinematic version, with John Henderson — a director on episodes of British sitcoms “Spy,” “Saxondale,” “The Gemma Factor” and […]
Kenneth Willardt’s ‘The Beauty Book’ comes with AR app
(Relaxnews) – The Danish photographer’s new coffee table book offers two ways to experience his work: with or without augmented reality. The market for fashion photography coffee table books is a crowded one, to say the least. So to make his book stand out from the fray, Kenneth Willardt decided to rely on a bit […]
Michael Fassbender in talks to play Steve Jobs
(Relaxnews) – After being turned down by Leonardo DiCaprio and, on Monday, by Christian Bale, producers are courting yet another actor for the biopic on the Apple co-founder. Negotiations with Bale came close to the finish line. Aaron Sorkin, who wrote the script, even confirmed during an interview that the actor would play Steve Jobs, […]
Uma Thurman joins US remake of ‘The Slap’
(Relaxnews) – The actress has stepped in to replace Mary-Louise Parker in “The Slap,” the NBC miniseries adapted from the Australian format, Tvline.com has announced. Forced to back out of the project for health reasons, Mary-Louise Parker has made way for Uma Thurman. The star of Quentin Tarantino’s “Kill Bill” movies has signed on to […]
‘Exodus Gods & Kings’ trailer sets up epic sibling rivalry
(Relaxnews) – A new trailer for “Exodus: Gods and Kings” sets up the sibling bond between Moses and Ramses, before two nations clash under a plague-filled sky. Moses’ challenge — the granting of freedom to a country’s slavebound underclass — threatens to destabilize not only a nation’s economy and its cultural ambitions, but also his […]
Bookshop celebrates Carlos Bulosan on Filipino American History Month
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA – The book, America Is in the Heart: A Personal History by Carlos Bulosan will be the center of the Filipino American History Month celebration on Saturday, October 25, 2014. The event is sponsored by Philippine Expressions Bookshop and is free and open to the public. It will be held at Search to Involve Filipino […]
Papal favourites served up in new recipe book
(VATICAN CITY-AFP) – From an Argentinian dessert that translates as “milk candy” to Polish ravioli, a member of Vatican’s famed Swiss Guard on Tuesday unveiled a range of recipes of dishes favoured by popes. David Geisser, 24, who joined the elite Vatican security corps a month ago launched his cookbook “Bon Appetit, Swiss Guard” in […]
CN Traveler readers name Disney world’s best cruise line 2014
(Relaxnews) – Disney, Crystal Cruises and Windstar have emerged the highest-rated cruise lines in CN Traveler magazine’s latest edition of the Readers’ Choice Awards which has released a list of the top cruise brands for 2014. The top 28 cruise lines are divided into four categories: large ship lines, midsize, small ship and river cruise. […]
Marvel Studios executive ready for female superhero film
(Relaxnews) – If Victoria Alonso were in charge of Marvel’s announcement schedule, the studio would be talking about a female superhero film “today.” Speaking at the Visual Effects Society Production Summit on October 18, executive producer Alonso was able to offer insight into working behind the scenes on Marvel’s latest crop of blockbusters. Her appearance […]
New Michelin guide for Kansai, Japan adds 2-star listings
(Relaxnews) – Three more restaurants in Japan have been added to the club of two Michelin stars in the 2015 edition of the red book for Kansai. In its sixth year, inspectors bestowed two stars on two new restaurants in Kyoto and the same rating on another dining destination in Osaka. In Kyoto, the new […]
Palawan in the Philippines named world’s top island: CN Traveler
(Relaxnews) – If you’ve been to Thailand, done Bali and bought the T-shirt in Vietnam, consider Palawan, one of 7,107 islands belonging to the Philippines that’s just been named the world’s top island by readers of CN Traveler magazine. About an hour’s flight from Manila, Palawan’s virtue lies in the fact that it remains largely […]
Lonely Planet releases its picks for the top destinations in 2015
(Relaxnews) – Travel experts at Lonely Planet have gazed into their crystal balls and come up with lists of the top 10 cities, regions and countries to visit in 2015, giving top nods to Singapore, Washington DC, and the Gallipoli Peninsula in Turkey. Destinations that made the cut for Lonely Planet’s latest, “Best in Travel […]
Scarlett Johansson courted for ‘Ghost in the Shell’
(Relaxnews) – DreamWorks has reached out to the star about a role in its adaptation of the famous Japanese manga, Deadline reports. The American actress is said to have inherited the role from Margot Robbie, who had been attached since September. After “Lucy,” Scarlett Johansson could be headed for another sci-fi blockbuster. The actress, who […]
Christian Bale in talks to play Steve Jobs in Danny Boyle’s biopic
(Relaxnews) – Two weeks after Leonardo DiCaprio turned down the role, Christian Bale is on his way to playing the Apple co-founder. The Hollywood Reporter indicates that the British actor was in Sony’s sights for the role at the start of the project, when David Fincher was still attached to direct. Now Bale has entered […]
Iron Man returns for ‘Captain America 3’
(Relaxnews) – All becomes clear regarding Robert Downey Jr.’s ongoing involvement in Marvel’s crossover film franchises, as his Iron Man character is set to kick off a new story arc in “Captain America 3.” The addition of RDJ as Tony Stark/Iron Man means that Marvel’s Civil War storyline is set to move from comic book […]
Hugh Grant dumps ‘Bridget Jones’ for good
(Relaxnews) – This weekend, the actor revealed that he will not take part in the third movie in the franchise starring Renée Zellweger and Colin Firth. After indicating a few months ago that the script was not to his liking, Hugh Grant confirmed to Free Radio that he will not reprise the role of Daniel […]
Karl Lagerfeld’s cat poses with the new Opel Corsa
(Relaxnews) – What do Claudia Schiffer and Karl Lagerfeld’s cat Choupette have in common? For starters, both are spokesmodels for the new Opel Corsa. While the German supermodel stars in an ad campaign for Opel’s new city car, Choupette is the face of the 2015 Opel Corsa Calendar, shot by her famous owner. Tina Müller, […]
‘Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs’ to become a TV series
(Relaxnews) – A new generation of kids came to know the 1978 children’s book story through the 2009 animated feature and its 2013 sequel. Now “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs” is headed for the small screen. To turn the franchise into an animated series, Sony Pictures Animation has signed a deal with DHX Media, […]
Cookbook spotlight: ‘Baking Chez Moi’
(Relaxnews) – In her latest cookbook, popular author Dorie Greenspan aims to demystify French desserts and make them less daunting, with a collection of contemporary recipes that come from everyone from her French hairdresser to the average French household. ‘Baking Chez Moi’ is 496 pages of dessert recipes for the at-home cook. Traditionally labor-intensive French […]
‘Constantine’: NBC launches promo campaign
(Relaxnews) – Comic book fans have marked their calendars for October 24: the premiere date of the much-anticipated NBC series “Constantine.” The first poster and trailers are now available online. Twitter is abuzz following the release of new promotional materials for the new NBC series “Constantine,” adapted from the “Hellblazer” series from DC Comics and […]
Sci-fi novel ‘The Dark Side’ flies to Fox Pictures
(Relaxnews) – Hollywood is already taking advantage of the interest surrounding this year’s Frankfurt Book Fair as “The Dark Side” is given to the screenwriter for “Exodus: Gods and Kings.” Steve Zaillian wrote the script for biblical epic “Exodus: Gods and Kings” with director Ridley Scott and is on hand to adapt Anthony O’Neill’s sci-fi […]
Cookbook spotlight: Mark Bittman’s ‘How to Cook Everything Fast’
(Relaxnews) – New York Times food writer Mark Bittman has released another addition to his “How to Cook Everything,” series, this time with a cookery book that promises to teach readers how to cook everything — fast. In the 1,056-page tome, Bittman provides ideas on how to take shortcuts on traditionally labor-intensive meals like chicken […]
Daniel Radcliffe gets demonic in ‘Horns’
(Relaxnews) – Lionsgate unveiled a new teaser for French director Alexandre Aja’s new feature starring the former Harry Potter star. Fire, snakes and a pitchfork set the tone in the new teaser for “Horns,” in which Daniel Radcliffe transforms before the camera into a demon. Adapted from the novel by Joe Hill, “Horns” follows Ignatius, […]
‘Gone with the Wind’ sweeps back for 75th anniversary
(WASHINGTON-AFP) – Rhett Butler may not give a damn, but fans of “Gone with the Wind” are more than happy to see the 1939 classic return to cinemas for its 75th anniversary. Special screenings are scheduled at 650 theaters around the United States on Sunday and Wednesday, while Turner Classic Movies is releasing a commemorative […]
Hawkeye could make an appearance in ‘Captain America 3’
(Relaxnews) – Jeremy Renner hinted that his arrow-slinging superhero character could be among the faces of the third Captain America movie. In an interview with MTV, the actor commented on Hawkeye’s place within the world of Marvel and Disney’s movies. In denying any ambition to get his own solo feature, the actor indicated that he […]
Batman prequel ‘Gotham’ premieres on US TV
(WASHINGTON-AFP) – The backstory of Batman’s many villains came to life Monday in a new US television drama series that Fox hopes will help lift its prime-time ratings out of the doldrums. “Gotham” stars David Mazouz as a 12-year-old Bruce Wayne who witnesses the cold-blooded murder of his parents on the grim nocturnal backstreets of […]
Pechanga Resorts & Casino presents the amazing dance performance of ‘My Dream’
Internationally known for their beautiful dance performance of “Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva,” the world famous China Disabled People’s Performing Art Troupe will be returning to Pechanga for two shows on Saturday, October 11, 2014 at 4pm and 8pm. The China Disabled People’s Performing Art Troupe uses its unique artistic charm and profound spiritual connotation that is beyond […]
‘Paper Towns’ given June 2015 date
(Relaxnews) – Jake Schreier’s adaptation of John Green novel “Paper Towns” benefits from a 20th Century Fox reshuffle, vacating its end of July window in favor of a June 19 debut, while “Fantastic Four,” “Deadpool” and “Assassin’s Creed” form part of the shuffle. With rising star Cara Delevingne starring opposite “The Fault in Our Stars” […]
‘I Know What You Did Last Summer’ reboot in the works
(Relaxnews) – Sony is developing an update on the horror movie originally headlined by Jennifer Love Hewitt, Sarah Michel Gellar, Ryan Phillipe and Freddie Prinze Jr, Deadline reveals. Released in 1997, “I Know What You Did Last Summer” joined “Scream” as part of a new wave of slasher movies, a horror sub-genre in which a […]
Villains and goblins steal the show from Mickey and Harry Potter
(Relaxnews) – Death Eaters, evil stepmothers, twisted fairies, ghosts and goblins are getting ready to steal the spotlight from their more heroic nemeses at theme parks around the world as Halloween draws near. It’s perhaps the one occasion when everyone’s favorite animated and fictitious villains can emerge from the shadow and bask in their evilness. […]
Foul-mouthed Thug Kitchen cookbook hits shelves next month
(Relaxnews) – Gangsta vegan blog Thug Kitchen, which has enjoyed viral success thanks to a shout-out from Gwyneth Paltrow and recipes peppered with F-bombs in creative — and comedically timed — places will hit shelves in October in book form. In just two years, the anonymously-penned blog Thug Kitchen has become a viral hit, with […]
‘Hello Kitty’ plane to fly Taipei-Paris route from late October
(Relaxnews) – The Taiwanese airline Eva Air, which has operated Hello Kitty flights between Taipei and Los Angeles since September 2013, will launch the same offer to and from Paris from October 29. From the plane’s exterior to its seats, not to mention the flight attendants’ uniforms, every detail of this special service is related […]
Michelin Guide Fukuoka, Japan now available online in English
(Relaxnews) – Foodies worldwide can now browse the restaurants of the special-edition Michelin Guide to the Japanese city, which was published exclusively in the local language last July. The French company’s first guidebook on the restaurants of Fukuoka, located on the northern shore of the island of Kyushu, is now available in English through the […]
Chef Joel Robuchon to release cookbook for well-being
(Relaxnews) – Stewing in anger and need to calm down? Tuck into oysters or clams to cool off and regain composure. Just suffered from a traumatic event? Find serenity with a plate of green asparagus with Parmesan shavings. These are some of the recommendations made in Michelin-starred chef Joel Robuchon’s upcoming cookbook, penned with a […]
‘Ghost In The Shell’ could star Margot Robbie
(Relaxnews) – The influential cult classic anime is looking for a lead actress in its bid to finally become a live action film. Australian actress Margot Robbie was praised for her turn as Naomi Lapaglia in “The Wolf of Wall Street” and is now in talks to become cyborg counterterrorist Major Kusanagi in “Ghost in […]
A penchant for healthy food can be trained: study
(Relaxnews) – In a small, preliminary study, researchers at the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging (USDA HNRCA) at Tufts University and at Massachusetts General Hospital found it may be possible to train the brain to prefer healthy foods over calorie-laden, additive-rich fare. “We don’t start out in life loving French fries […]
Joaquin Phoenix still in the running to play Marvel’s Doctor Strange
(Relaxnews) – Denying other rumors on the subject, including recent speculation that Daniel Radcliffe would play Marvel’s sorcerer, Collider reports that negotiations with Joaquin Phoenix are about to cross the finish line. Jared Leto, Tom Hardy, Benedict Cumberbatch, Adrien Brody, Joseph Gordon-Levitt… The rumor mill has churned out the names of several in-demand actors (and […]
‘Walking Dead’ star to hunt a ghost with Nicolas Cage
(Relaxnews) – Sarah Wayne Callies has joined the cast of “Pay the Ghost,” a thriller due to enter production next month. At age 37, the actress is in the limelight more than ever before. After breaking through in her role as Sara Tancredi on “Prison Break” and later playing Lori Grimes on “The Walking Dead,” […]
Spielberg developing series based on ‘Minority Report’
(Relaxnews) – The filmmaker and prolific TV producer has brought in “Godzilla” screenwriter Max Borenstein to write a series based on his 2002 sci-fi action movie, according to the Wrap. Adapted from the eponymous short story by Philip K. Dick, “Minority Report” was well received by audiences and critics. Headlined by Tom Cruise and Colin […]
Christian Bale and Cate Blanchett board ‘The Jungle Book: The Origins’
(Relaxnews) – Just after nabbing Benedict Cumberbatch to voice the tiger Shere Khan, Andy Serkis’s adaptation of the Rudyard Kipling work has picked up two more A-list actors, the Hollywood Reporter reveals. “Batman” star Christian Bale will lend his voice to Bagheera the panther, while Oscar-winner Cate Blanchett will be heard as Kaa the snake […]
Keanu Reeves to play hitman in ‘Rain’
(Relaxnews) – According to Deadline, Keanu Reeves has joined the expanding list of movie stars crossing over to the small screen. The actor will be the executive producer and star of “Rain.” Adapted from the “John Rain” thriller book series by American author Barry Eisler, the drama will follow a Japanese-American hit man, played by […]
Summer break film selection: ‘Ida’
(Relaxnews) – Catch up with a recent film experience in our summer series. Today, 2013 film “Ida,” about a young orphan on the trail of her family’s history. On the verge of committing to life in the nunnery where she was brought up, Anna is required to visit any remaining family first. Setting out for […]
Hollywood continues to explore Marilyn Monroe’s life
(Relaxnews) – Variety reported last week that Lifetime is preparing a miniseries on Marilyn Monroe. The drama will join an ever-expanding list of movies and TV productions focusing on the iconic actress. Fascinating during her lifetime, the star is at least as much so 52 years after her death. Born Norma Jean, the American actress […]
Fiction helps build empathy in children, says researcher
(Relaxnews) – At the American Psychological Association’s 122nd Annual Convention, which wrapped up the week in Washington, DC, York University psychologist Raymond Mar led a presentation on the important and oft forgotten role of narrative fiction, highlighting its ability to instill empathy. Taking into account the opinions of others, anticipating their reactions and realizing their […]
New ‘Lord of the Rings’ tour launches for book’s 60th annivesary
(Relaxnews) – Hardcore fans of “The Lord of the Rings” are being courted in a new luxury travel package developed to mark the trilogy’s 60th anniversary and the upcoming release of the final cinematic installment of “The Hobbit.” It’s called “The Ultimate Lord of the Rings Tour,” an 11-day trip that’s meant to indulge every […]
Worldwide box office: ‘Ninja Turtles’ open on top
(Relaxnews) – With $93.7 million in revenues, the heroes in a half shell unseated “Guardians of the Galaxy” at the global box office for the weekend ending August 10, according to Rentrak. “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles,” the latest adaptation of the comics, rose to the challenge and outperformed “Guardians of the Galaxy” at the global box office […]
Romance novel covers inspire new MAC collection
(Relaxnews) – When it comes to creative themes for makeup lines, MAC is never short on ideas. The latest proof is its “A Novel Romance” collection, inspired by the literary genre known for its sultry cover illustrations. With its latest makeup collection, MAC has captured the over-the-top sensuality and sentimentality of the romance novel genre, […]
‘The Flash’ gets a quick intro in new teaser
(Relaxnews) – Two months before premiering its new superhero series, the CW uploaded a new teaser in which Barry Allen introduces himself as “the fastest man alive.” First introduced as a character on “Arrow” last December, the super-fast superhero has already proven he can win over viewers: one of the two episodes with the Flash […]
Batman and Superman get ahead of Captain America
(Relaxnews) – To avoid going head to head with “Captain America 3” in theaters, Warner Bros decided to shift the release of “Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice” forward by around a month. Initially, both films were set to bow on May 6, 2016, meaning that the superheroes would have given each other some serious […]
Jennifer Connelly takes female lead in ‘American Pastoral’
(Relaxnews) – The actress has joined the cast of the forthcoming film adaptation of Philip Roth’s Pulitzer-winning novel, The Wrap reports. Australian filmmaker Phillip Noyce will helm the feature, in which Jennifer Connelly will co-star opposite Ewan McGregor. Production is slated to begin in March 2015. Part of Roth’s “American Trilogy,” “American Pastoral” examines the […]
George W. Bush writes bio of his US president dad
(WASHINGTON-AFP) – Former US president George W. Bush has written a “personal biography” of his presidential father, said Crown publishers Wednesday, which announced it will release the book in November. Crown announced that the biography of ex-president George H. W. Bush will be released on November 11 — Veteran’s Day holiday in the United States. […]
‘Ant-Man’: details unveiled on Evangeline Lily and Corey Stoll’s roles
(Relaxnews) – The two actors revealed through their TV roles on “Lost” and “House of Cards” were recently added to the cast of Marvel’s comedy feature. Now details have surfaced on their characters in “Ant-Man.” Evangeline Lily will play Hope Van Dyne, the daughter of Hank Pym (Michael Douglas), the first scientist to put on […]
Steamy ’50 Shades of Grey’ trailer hits the internet
(Relaxnews) – On Thursday, Universal Pictures UK uploaded one of the most anticipated trailers of the season, which is as suggestive as fans of the novel could have hoped. On the heels of the teaser shared by Beyoncé earlier this week, the advertising campaign for “50 Shades of Grey” is heating up with the release of the […]
Everything you need to know about Comic-Con 2014
(Relaxnews) – Now a decades-old tradition, Comic-Con San Diego is the world’s premiere celebration of geek culture. The event takes place this year from July 24 to 27. Created in 1970 and originally dedicated to comic books, Comic-Con has expanded its purview to include movies, TV shows, mangas and video games. The event has become […]
Marathon 18-hour Shakespeare play dazzles Avignon
(AVIGNON, France-AFP) – An 18-hour version of Shakespeare’s epic “Henry VI” ended to sustained applause early Tuesday at France’s top arts festival in Avignon, marking a triumph for the play’s 32-year-old director. The daunting task involving 21 actors, 150 characters, seven intermissions and 10,000 verses took a decade to come to fruition, director Thomas Jolly […]
Beyoncé unveils first look at ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’
(Relaxnews) – On Instagram, the pop star posted the first teaser for the adaptation of the best-selling novel. While the trailer for “Fifty Shades of Grey” is slated for release on Thursday, July 24, Beyoncé decided to kick off the promotional campaign a few days earlier. These first 16 seconds of footage don’t reveal much, […]
MAFFAA’s Noli Me Tangere, The Opera at the Kennedy Center on August 8-9
By Angelita Felixberto Washington D.C. : For the first time, Jose Rizal’s famous novel “Noli Me Tangere” will be staged at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. as an OPERA on 8-9 August 2014. The opera will be presented at the John F. Kennedy Center in Washington, DC, by the Mid-Atlantic Foundation for Asian Artists (MAFFAA) in coooperation with its […]
Christian Bale in line for Travis McGee adaptation
(Relaxnews) – First in a series of 21 novels, James Mangold’s adaptation of “The Deep Blue Good-by” would see “The Dark Knight” and “Exodus” star Christian Bale as roving vigilante for hire Travis McGee. The deal is not yet done, but Bale is in discussions with 20th Century Fox to take the lead role as […]
Rachel Weisz could join Michael Fassbender in ‘The Light Between Oceans’
(Relaxnews) – The actress is in talks for the female lead in director Derek Cianfrance’s adaptation of M.L. Stedman’s best-selling novel. An international best-seller, the Australian author’s first novel will soon make its way to the big screen with an all-star cast. In addition to Michael Fassbender, who will play the male lead, the production […]
OneRepublic backs ‘The Giver’ with trailer soundtrack
(Relaxnews) – Two time Grammy Award nominated band OneRepublic lifts the profile of August’s sci-fi adaptation “The Giver” starring Brendan Thwaites, Odeya Rush, Jeff Bridges and Meryl Streep. Summarizing the main plot thrust of the film (and the Lois Lowry novel upon which it’s based), a brief trailer sees Brendan Thwaites’s Jonas start to uncover […]
‘Divergent’ threequel gains ‘The Maze Runner’ writer
(Relaxnews) – The third and final part of the “Divergent” series, “Allegiant,” has brought in Noah Oppenheim to turn Veronic Roth’s young adult novel into a two-part screenplay. “The Divergent Series: Allegiant – Part 1” is scheduled for cinemas in March 2016 and its conclusion for March 2017. And as The Hollywood Reporter notes, at this stage […]
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ grow up in new teaser
(Relaxnews) – New footage has been released for the Michael Bay-produced action movie, including scenes of the young turtles learning the ways of the ninja. With less than a month to go before “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” hits US theaters, the movie’s promotional campaign is in full swing. A few days after the release of […]
New J.K. Rowling story shows Harry Potter at 34
(LONDON-AFP) – Fictional boy wizard Harry Potter made his first appearance in seven years on Monday, featuring as a nearly 34-year-old with grey hairs in a new short story by author J.K. Rowling. In an article on her “Pottermore” website that is supposedly written by a gossip columnist, Harry and his friends reunite for a […]
Consumers rank the best and worst tasting fast food chains in the US
(Relaxnews) – McDonald’s has been given the dubious distinction of selling the worst burgers in America in a new fast food survey. According to the results of Consumer Reports’ latest reader poll, burgers from the Golden Arches were named the worst-tasting sandwiches of all the major fast food brands. If you want a good burger […]
Author gives blessing to ‘The Giver’ film
(Relaxnews) – Lois Lowry, author of 1993 sci-fi novel “The Giver,” considers Phillip Noyce’s August 2014 adaptation a faithful work, with her approval emblazoned across the film’s latest promotional image. Starring Brenton Thwaites (“Maleficent”), Odeya Rush (“The Odd Life of Timothy Green”), Jeff Bridges (“Tron: Legacy”) and Meryl Streep (“The Iron Lady”), “The Giver” has […]
‘Anatomy of a Misfit’ moves closer to movie deal
(Relaxnews) – Due for publication this September, tale of high school dates and social dilemmas “Anatomy of a Misfit” is on the verge of being snapped up by a big name studio. Andrea Portes’s third novel will be her second adapted into cinematic format, if all goes to plan, after “Hick” had Chloë Grace Moretz […]
‘American Gods’ moves closer to TV series dream
(Relaxnews) – The network adaptation of Neil Gaiman’s modern mythology “American Gods” is picking up steam after two “Heroes” staffers joined the production and US channel Starz backs the production. The project, in production in its current form at “The Tomorrow People” and “American Idol” company Fremantle Media since 2013, is based on Gaiman’s award-wining […]
‘Fault in Our Stars’ bench vanishes from Amsterdam
(Relaxnews) – Fans of “The Fault in Our Stars” discovered that a canal-side bench in Amsterdam that’s the site of a key scene in the romantic drama had gone missing as they traced a tour of movie-centric moments around the Dutch capital. The disappearance went undetected by city authorities as the bench was swiftly replaced […]
Silver lining: ‘Red Queen’ reveals book cover
(Relaxnews) – The first entry in Victoria Aveyard’s upcoming young adult trilogy wears its colors on its sleeve: silver for the book’s elite rulers, red for the revolutionary rabble. Viewed from one angle, it’s a twist on the “X-Men” narrative — that super powered mutants are viewed as dangerous outcasts — except in Aveyard’s fiction, […]
Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan together again
(Relaxnews) – Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan could team up for “Ithaca,” the actress’s directing debut. This would mark the pair’s fourth time on screen together. Adapted from William Saroyan’s “Human Comedy” (1943), “Ithaca” tells the story of a 14-year-old boy who has to take care of his widowed mother and siblings after his father […]
George Washington trumps Pinocchio for inspiring honesty in kids: study
(Relaxnews) – For parents hoping to guide their offspring in the right direction, an innovative study points to stories with positive outcomes as a helpful tool. The study, published in Psychological Science, concludes positive moral tales like “George Washington and the Cherry Tree” work better at instilling a sense of honesty than “Pinocchio” or the “Boy Who […]
Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley park to open next month in Florida
(Relaxnews) – Universal Orlando has announced that the latest addition to its Harry Potter theme park will open July 8. Diagon Alley, the cobblestoned village where witches and wizards shop for provisions like wands, telescopes and magnifying glasses, will open next month after much fanfare. One of the most highly anticipated attractions is the multi-sensory […]
‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ receives international trailer
(Relaxnews) – As Glenn Close’s haughty Nova Corps commander would have it, “the fate of 12 billion people is in the hands of a thief, two thugs, a murderer and a maniac.” For Peter Quill, played by Chris Pratt, he and his motley crew have a chance to protect the galaxy and prevent a powerful […]
Jason Momoa joins ‘Batman v Superman’ as Aquaman
(Relaxnews) – Hawaiian-born Jason Momoa (“Stargate: Atlantis,” “Game of Thrones”) is to become blonde-haired, telepathic underwater inhabitant Aquaman for “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice.” The appearance is a stepping stone towards Zack Snyder’s follow-up for Warner Bros and DC Comics, “Justice League,” which is to accommodate an ensemble cast similar in scope to Marvel’s […]
David Fincher and Rooney Mara could reteam for ‘Red Sparrow’
(Relaxnews) – Two years after “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo,” the director and the actress could soon reunite for another collaboration, Deadline.com indicates. After adapting the book by Swedish crime novelist Stieg Larsson, David Fincher is circling an adaptation of a spy novel by Jason Matthews. Published in June 2013, “Red Sparrow” focuses on […]
‘Mars, Venus’ author warns over sex in online world
(LOS ANGELES-AFP) – He claims to have saved hundreds of thousands of marriages. But John Gray, author of “Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus,” is worried by where relationships are going — notably online. Free Internet porn is “like taking heroin,” while online cheating websites can also lead to sex addiction, Gray said. […]
‘The Stand’ to become 3-hour epic
(Relaxnews) – Stephen King’s “The Stand” is to have its cinematic adaptation realized as a three-hour epic with “an amazing A-list cast” according to “The Fault in Our Stars” director Josh Boone. “We’re gonna do one three-hour, R-rated version with an amazing A-list cast across the board,” Boone told New York Magazine’s Vulture. “Every single one […]
Naomi Watts joins three ‘Divergent’ sequels
(Relaxnews) – The actress has signed up for three sequels to Neil Burger’s “Divergent,” according to the Hollywood Reporter. For “Insurgent,” the first follow-up to “Divergent,” Robert Schwentke (“Red”) has taken over from Burger in the director’s chair. Shailene Woodley, Theo James and other original cast members will reprise their roles, and Octavia Spencer (“The […]
Why these places have been deemed the world’s smartest cities
(Relaxnews) – A list of the ‘smartest cities in the world’ provides a glimpse of what the future could — and should — look like, be it zero carbon communities or heavily connected, smart destinations. Editors at CN Traveler have rounded up a few of the most innovative destinations they call ‘the world’s smartest cities’ […]
‘Hunger Games’ to become mobile game
(SAN FRANCISCO-AFP) – “The Hunger Games” is becoming a mobile game. Interactive entertainment company Kabam announced Friday that it agreed with film studio Lionsgate to make a title for play on smartphones or tablet computers based on the dystopian books and films. San Francisco-based Kabam specializes in mobile games that are free-to-play, instead bringing in […]
‘Batman vs Superman’ given official title and logo treatment
(Relaxnews) – Zack Snyder’s “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” has been set for a May 2016 head-on collision with “Captain America 3,” but this is the first time that Warner Bros has addressed it by its mandated name. With Snyder at the helm, having directed Henry Cavill as Superman in “Man of Steel,” Ben […]
Affluent travelers pick Burj Al Arab as world’s best hotel
(Relaxnews) – The Burj Al Arab in Dubai, best known for its sail-like silhouette, has been named the best hotel in the world by readers of The Telegraph’s luxury magazine Ultratravel. In addition to taking the title of best hotel in the Middle East, the luxury hotel in Dubai beat Claridge’s in London, the Four […]
Stephen King’s ‘Gerald’s Game’ on its way to silver screen
(Relaxnews) – Horror movie writing and directing duo Mike Flanagan and Jeff Howard have penned the screenplay for an adaptation of the 1992 novel, Deadline.com indicates. More than two decades after its publication, “Gerald’s Game” could finally join the long list of Stephen King novels that have inspired Hollywood. Currently selling at Cannes, the adaptation […]
New food terms added to Merriam-Webster: pho, poutine and turducken
(Relaxnews) – It’s taken a while for editors at Merriam-Webster dictionary to legitimize it, but the Frankenstein-ish, cannibalizing American holiday dish that stuffs a boneless chicken into a boneless duck into a boneless turkey has finally been recognized as a real word. In addition to “turducken,” other food terms admitted into the 2014 edition of the […]
Italian director chosen for Pope Francis biopic
(Relaxnews) – Daniele Luchetti will helm the Spanish-language feature adapted from the book “Francisco: El Papa de la gente” (“Francis: The People’s Pope”), Variety reports. Production on “Call Me Francesco” is slated to begin this summer in Argentina with Daniele Luchetti in the director’s chair. Producer Piero Valsecchi said the feature will be released around […]
New Harry Potter ride re-enacts escape from Gringotts bank
(Relaxnews) – New details have emerged on the latest Harry Potter attraction in Florida designed to recreate one of the most action-packed scenes of the movie series: a dramatic escape from the vaults of the Gringotts Wizarding Banks. Described as a multi-dimensional, multi-sensory thrill ride, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts is the latest […]
New romantic comedy Chasing Athens by Fil-Am journalist released
Expat life and love lessons collide in debut novel by Marissa Tejada (Athens, GREECE) – Greece’s economic crisis, culture and landscape inspired award-winning journalist Marissa Tejada to set her first novel, Chasing Athens, in the Mediterranean country where she moved to several years ago. E-book romance publisher Musa Publishing released the romantic comedy as part […]
Pair of ‘Princess Diaries’ books after 5-year break
(Relaxnews) – Meg Cabot is returning as author of “The Princess Diaries” in 2015, but this time will focus on Mia Thermopolis’s life as an adult. Just like her fans, Mia has grown up, and “Royal Wedding” sees her prepare for marriage to long-term beau Michael. At the same time, it emerges that Mia has […]
Matt Damon could play Aquaman in ‘Justice League’
(Relaxnews) – Rumors suggest that the star could join his longtime friend Ben Affleck on the set of Zack Snyder’s forthcoming superhero movie, according to Thewrap.com. Matt Damon could board “Justice League,” the feature on the DC Comics superhero team, along the same lines as Marvel’s “Avengers.” The speculation should be regarded as such, however, […]
Cookbook spotlight: ‘Buvette: The Pleasure of Good Food’
(Relaxnews) – An American chef whose mastery of bistro cuisine enabled her to open a Parisian outpost of her New York ‘gastrotheque’ Buvette to critical acclaim shares her secrets to recreating the same rustic but chic fare at home in her upcoming cookbook. Named after chef Jody Williams’s New York and Paris restaurants, the 304-page […]
Four more ‘Walking Dead’ books greenlit by Kirkman
(Relaxnews) – Robert Kirkman, creator of “The Walking Dead,” has given the go-ahead to another spin-off storyline from novelist Jay Bonansinga. “Descent,” which is due for an October 14 release from Thomas Dunne Books and St. Martin’s Press, revolves around Lilly Caul, one of Kirkman’s original characters who returns from Bonansinga’s 2012 novel “The Walking […]
Harry Potter fans open online Hogwarts school
(Relaxnews) – Hogwarts is Here, an online educational website modeled after J.K. Rowling’s school for young magic-users, is open for currency-free business. Following in the footsteps of the fictional Harry, Hermione and Ron just got a whole lot easier with a selection of nine-week online courses provided by a coven of industrious fans. Launched on […]
NHM Brings Pop-up Nature Lab and Store to Los Angeles Times Festival of Books
Also Presenting the NHM Children’s Stage WHAT: The NHM booth at the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books will feature talks, author signings, Dinosaur Encounters shows, live animal presentations, and hands-on workshops, in conjunction with the opening of the Butterfly Pavilion exhibit on April 13. WHO: Book signings by Al Yankovic, Charles Phoenix, Jared Diamond, Brian Switek and […]
New Hillary Clinton memoir set for June 10 release
(WASHINGTON-AFP) – Hillary Clinton, the former US secretary of state who is contemplating a second run for the White House, will release a new memoir on June 10, her publisher announced Wednesday. A website owned by Simon & Schuster was allowing users to sign up and pre-order the book, which the publisher said would consist […]
Palmdale, California Author Publishes New Book
This True Story Exposes the Realities of Chasing a Hollywood Dream “Within the Winds of Hollywood,” a new book by Joseph Yore, has been released by Dorrance Publishing Co., Inc. Emporium, Pennsylvania, bruised his ego and broke his heart. So Joseph Yore left his hometown to go west in San Francisco, California to start his […]
New book details one family’s sugar-free year
(Relaxnews) – In 2011, Eve Schaub and her family decided to eliminate added sugar from their diet for one year. The experience was a positive one overall, as the author recounts in her new memoir “Year of No Sugar,” published in the US this week. In a world full of processed foods, added sugar is […]
‘Game of Thrones’ renewed for two more seasons
(LOS ANGELES-AFP) – Hit HBO television show “Games of Thrones” was renewed for two more seasons Tuesday, two days after its latest series opened with a bang that crashed the broadcaster’s online app. Sunday’s fourth season debut drew 6.6 million viewers, the most for the pay-channel since the finale of HBO cult hit “The Sopranos” […]
‘Spider-Man’ spin-off nets ‘Cabin in the Woods’ director
(Relaxnews) – “The Sinister Six,” a feature-length look at some of Spider-Man’s notable villains, looks like it’ll be not just written but also directed by “Cabin in the Woods” man Drew Goddard. Goddard wrote nine episodes of “Lost” over its first four seasons and also had writing credits on “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” “Angel,” and […]
Winning Treats to Please Kids and Adults this Easter
(Family Features) When you think of Easter goodies there’s a good chance the flavorful jelly bean comes to mind – a big hit with kids young and old. But, because flavor preferences change with age, it stands to reason that not all Easter gifts are created equal. So, how do you navigate the taste bud […]
Top family-friendly attractions in the US 2014
(Relaxnews) – Parents planning their summer vacation this year may want to consult a new ranking of the top kid-friendly attractions as voted by families across the US. According to 2,000 readers of FamilyFun magazine, the top historic site in the US, for instance, is Mount Rushmore, while the top national park for families is […]
Panini presents official 2014 World Cup sticker album
(Relaxnews) – In contrast to the American tradition of baseball card collecting, hardly as popular as it once was, the international pastime of soccer sticker collecting is still alive and well, particularly in the lead up to the World Cup. Panini, the world’s largest publisher of collectibles, has now announced the event’s official licensed album […]
Mandela’s former aide to publish memoirs
(JOHANNESBURG-AFP) – The long-serving and trusted white personal aide of Nelson Mandela will publish her memoirs in June about how her life was transformed by South Africa’s late anti-apartheid icon, Penguin Books announced Thursday. Zelda la Grange, Mandela’s private assistant during his 1994-1999 presidency and subsequent retirement, had become a fixture by the Nobel laureate’s […]
Look out! Here comes the Spider-Man ice cream
(Relaxnews) – What’s red, blue and striped all over? Why, the latest Spider-Man inspired ice cream, of course. In a tie-in with the May release of “The Amazing Spider-Man 2” movie, Baskin-Robbins has created an ice cream flavor made with red and blue, vanilla-flavored ice cream, thread by a web of dark chocolate and popping […]
Tender ‘Say I Love You’ trailer boasts One Direction soundtrack
(Relaxnews) – There’s a new trailer out for Japanese high school romance “Say ‘I Love You,’” based on a successful comic book series and now bound for live-action cinematic remake. Starring Haruna Kawaguchi as shy, distrustful loner Mei, and Sōta Fukushi as the confident, curious Yamaoto — one of her high school’s most popular students […]
ABC to premiere ‘The Astronaut Wives Club’ in July
(Relaxnews) – The latest series from the creators of “Gossip Girl” will premiere July 24, ABC has announced. Ahead of the launch of its new drama “Black Box” this April, the network has also set season premiere dates for its returning series “Mistresses” and “Rookie Blue.” Adapted from Lily Koppel’s best-selling novel, published last June, […]
Bradley Cooper could be the next Indiana Jones
(Relaxnews) – Producers have their sights set on the “American Hustle” star for a reboot of the famous adventure movie franchise, Latino-review.com reports. According to the website, Bradley Cooper is on Disney’s shortlist of actors who might fill Harrison Ford’s shoes by playing the famous archaeologist. The studio acquired the rights to the “Indiana Jones” […]
Ryan Gosling attached to Busby Berkeley biopic
(Relaxnews) – The American star will produce a film on the life of Busby Berkeley, the legendary director and choreographer credited with inventing the modern musical film during Hollywood’s golden age. Gosling may also direct or star in the biopic, according to the Hollywood Reporter. On the heels of “How to Catch a Monster,” due […]
‘Divergent’: the next ‘Hunger Games’ teen film smash?
(LOS ANGELES-AFP) – The studio that produced “Twilight” and “The Hunger Games” is at it again: “Divergent” is the latest teen adventure saga with a fearless female heroine battling the odds in a post-apocalyptic future. All eyes in Hollywood are on the box office fortunes of the movie, which hits theaters in the United States […]
Snoopy and Charlie Brown present first ‘Peanuts’ movie
(Relaxnews) – A new teaser unveils the CGI versions of the famous dog Snoopy, his despondent master Charlie Brown and their feathered friend Woodstock. Opening with a parody of “2001: A Space Odyssey,” the new video from Fox Family Entertainment introduces the big-screen debut of Charles M. Schulz’s classic characters. The CGI adaptation, made with […]
The top spring destinations of 2014: National Geographic Travel
(Relaxnews) – A wine-growing valley in Chile, walking paths in Tasmania and Ireland’s untamed, rugged coastline have been singled out as among some of the top spring destinations of 2014 by National Geographic Travel. Editors at the publication offer an interesting list of top 10 spring vacation ideas that focus on outdoor activities like hiking, […]
Rooney Mara to play Tiger Lily in Peter Pan origin story
(Relaxnews) – The actress will join Garrett Hedlund and Hugh Jackman in the cast of “Pan,” a feature on the early years of the character created by JM Barrie in 1911. Rooney Mara has landed the role of Tiger Lily, the princess in a native tribe in Neverland, Variety reports. Producers chose the 28-year-old actress, […]
‘Superman vs. Batman’ vs. ‘Captain America 3’ in 2016
(Relaxnews) – Marvel and DC are set on a cinematic crash course, with both houses intent on releasing blockbuster comic hero movies on the same day in May 2016. Marvel already had the May 6 date staked out for an unnamed entry in its ongoing filmhouse franchise when Warner Bros. announced its own Superman vs. […]
Literary supper club pairs food with books
(Relaxnews) – A dining concept in Amsterdam has twinned the passions of bookworms and food lovers into a literary-themed dinner series. Every two months, The Bookish Banquet hosts a dinner party themed after a classic novel for an event that’s part book club, part multi-course dining experience. It started as a one-off, Alice in Wonderland dinner party […]
Giada De Laurentiis restaurant in Las Vegas to open in May
(Relaxnews) – More details have emerged on one of the most buzzed-about hotels to open on the Las Vegas strip, which will be headlined by celebrity chef Giada de Laurentiis. After months of anticipation, boutique hotel The Cromwell is now taking reservations for stays beginning on May 21. Parisian-inspired, ornate black railings snake through the hotel while […]
Bill Gates’ booklist: an imagewall
(Relaxnews) – Noted philanthropist Bill Gates has made available a list of his recent and recommended reading, 130 titles that range from “How to Spend $50 Billion to Make the World a Better Place” to “The Dragon’s Gift: The Real Story of China in Africa.” Scientific and technological histories befitting of an ex-Microsoft CEO — […]
Spider Man helps the planet as official Earth Hour ambassador
(Relaxnews) – Spider Man is doing his bit for the planet this year, having been named as the ambassador of Earth Hour for 2014. The WWF Initiative has partnered with Sony Pictures to raise awareness of the famous lights-out event, which this year will be held on Saturday, March 29, at 8:30pm. Stars of the upcoming film “The Amazing […]
Jennifer Aniston in talks for ‘Mean Moms’
(Relaxnews) – “Friends” and “We’re the Millers” star Jennifer Aniston is on track for “Mean Moms,” a film that pokes beneath the surface of well-heeled suburbia in the style of “Desparate Housewives,” according to The Hollywood Reporter. The feature is based on Rosalind Wiseman’s life advice tale “Queen Bee Moms and King Pin Dads,” after […]
‘Eat Chocolate Lose Weight’ diet advocates daily intake of the sweet stuff
(Relaxnews) – Chocolate has almost always been on the “Heck no!” list when it comes to diets, but a new regimen promises eating the sweet treat helps with weight loss. Neuroscientist Dr. Will Clower penned the book “Eat Chocolate Lose Weight” and says consuming chocolate can actually help you eat less each day. Studies on […]
‘Fantastic Four’: Kate Mara confirmed
(Relaxnews) – “House of Cards” actress Kate Mara is to co-star in 2015’s “The Fantastic Four,” with Jamie Bell and Miles Teller also set to join Michael B. Jordan as principal cast members. The deal for Mara is done, according to Variety, setting her up to play Sue Storm, the Invisible Woman. Jamie Bell (“Hallam […]
Preview video: Angelina Jolie’s ‘Unbroken’
(Relaxnews) – Angelina’s third directorial role results in “Unbroken,” with cinematography by Roger Deakins and contributions to the script from the Coen brothers. Catching the flame of this month’s Olympic buzz is this first look at “Unbroken,” a Hollywood biopic about former athlete and World War II prisoner of war Louis Zamperini, as the new […]
J.K. Rowling’s Galbraith sequel ‘The Silkworm’ due in June
(Relaxnews) – The second Robert Galbraith novel, “The Silkworm,” has been set for June 24 in North America and June 19 in the United Kingdom. Again starring private eye Cormoran Strike, the second book puts the ex-military policeman on the trail of Owen Quine, a missing novelist. With his wife assuming that Quine’s merely looking […]
Korean bestseller ‘Leafie’ set for April debut
(Relaxnews) – Sun-mi Hwang’s “The Hen Who Dreamed She Could Fly” has been compared to “The Little Prince” in terms of universal appeal and is dated for a UK debut this April. The date coincides with that of the London Book Fair, April 8-10, at which Korean literature forms a special focus, as pointed out […]
‘Anansi Boys,’ ‘American Gods’ headed for TV
(Relaxnews) – Neil Gaiman’s “Anansi Boys” and “American Gods” have been optioned for TV adaptations, each on a different side of the Atlantic. Set after “American Gods,” “Anansi Boys” has a mild-mannered English accountant discover that he is actually brother to Spider, a stylish and outgoing inheritor of godly powers. The siblings are reunited after their […]
Children’s classic ‘The Giving Tree’ to become e-book
(Relaxnews) – Celebrating the book’s 50th anniversary, Shel Silverstein’s”The Giving Tree” will be released as an e-book for the first time ever on February 18. 1964 saw four of Silverstein’s works released to the public: “A Giraffe and a Half,” “Who Wants a Cheap Rhinoceros?” and “Uncle Shelby’s Zoo” accompanied by “The Giving Tree,” following […]
Trailer: Shailene Woodley overcomes illness in ‘The Fault in Our Stars’
(Relaxnews) – The first trailer has been released for this tender drama about two teens and their fight to find life and love in the face of cancer. Shailene Woodley’s about to prove her status as the versatile new darling of American cinema. And Ansel Elgort, who plays opposite Woodley in March’s book-to-film adaptation “Divergent,” […]
Self-help books in US take on a French accent
(WASHINGTON-AFP) – Forever thin, effortlessly chic, a culinary goddess with well-behaved children raised on broccoli — a certain image of French women thrives in the United States, or at least in its bookstores. “French Women Don’t Get Facelifts” is the latest addition to an ever-growing list of self-help books that lay bare the secrets of […]
New to Harry Potter theme park: Hogwarts Express train and Diagon Alley
(Relaxnews) – Visitors to Universal Orlando this summer will be able to retrace the steps of Harry Potter as he crosses over from the Muggle world to the wizarding world, at a new theme park that will include a Hogwarts Express train, Diagon Alley and a recreation of London landmarks — to real-life scale. The […]
Mariah Carey writing children’s Christmas story
(Relaxnews) – Singer, actor and movie producer Mariah Carey and her husband, “America’s Got Talent” host Nick Cannon, are to write “Roc and Roe’s 12 Days of Christmas” in time for a Fall 2014 release. Named after the couple’s children, the story book will be for kids aged 3 and over. And, as the title […]
Garrett Hedlund preparing to persecute Peter Pan
(Relaxnews) – Flying high after “Inside Llewyn Davis,” American actor Garrett Hedlund is in line to become a younger Captain Hook in “Pan.” The 29-year-old was offered the role of Peter Pan’s famous enemy, revealed Deadline, and would be joining Hugh Jackman, who’s to play Blackbeard in the feature directed by British filmmaker Joe Wright […]
NBC developing a dark ‘Wizard of Oz’ adaptation
(Relaxnews) – The network has greenlighted “Emerald City,” a series adapted from the American children’s literature classic, announced NBC President Bob Greenblatt. Scheduled to premiere in 2015, the series is described as having a dark tone, in the vein of “Game of Thrones.” Dorothy Gale, a headstrong twenty-something who ends up in Oz against her […]
Margot Robbie in talks to join Alexander Skarsgaard in ‘Tarzan’
(Relaxnews) – The Australian actress currently starring in Martin Scorsese’s “The Wolf of Wall Street” was offered the role of Jane in a new adaptation of the writings of Edgar Rice Burroughs. According to Thewrap.com, Margot Robbie is on the verge of accepting the female lead in “Tarzan,” to be helmed by David Yates, the […]
Study debunks science behind popular blood type diet
(Relaxnews) – A team of Canadian researchers has quashed the theory behind a popular diet that prescribes eating foods according to your blood type. The news may come as a blow to faithful followers of the internationally best-selling book “Eat Right for Your Type” first penned by naturopath Peter D’Adamo in 1996. Disappointed fans may […]
‘Under the Dome’ to return June 30, ‘Extant’ to premiere days later
(Relaxnews) – At the TCA Press Tour, CBS announced that its new sci-fi thriller “Extant” will air on July 2, a few days after the Season Two premiere of “Under the Dome.” Both shows are produced by Steven Spielberg. Last September 16, “Under the Dome” ended its first season with a terrible cliffhanger. CBS will […]
Trailer: Rebecca Hall stars in romantic drama ‘A Promise’
(Relaxnews) – Mars Distribution has uploaded the first trailer for Patrice Leconte’s “A Promise,” adapted from German author Stefan Zweig’s novella “Journey into the Past.” This period drama shows the British actress in the role of a young wife falling in love with her husband’s secretary and protégé, played by Richard Madden (“Game of Thrones”). […]
J.K. Rowling to produce Harry Potter stage show
(LONDON-AFP) – Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling is to co-produce a British stage show about the boy wizard’s early years living with his cruel non-magical aunt and uncle, she announced on Friday. Rowling said she would work with the writer on the new play, charting Harry’s lonely childhood when he was forced to sleep in […]
Joaquin Phoenix could challenge Batman and Superman in ‘Man of Steel’ sequel
(Relaxnews) – Warner Bros has reportedly chosen the actor as the face of the villain in the follow-up to last summer’s superhero blockbuster. According to Variety, Joaquin Phoenix is being courted by the studios for this key role, details of which remain under wraps. A number of fans have speculated that the antagonist of the […]
Cameron Diaz to release book on health and nutrition
(Relaxnews) – Hollywood star Cameron Diaz has taken a page from her good friend Gwyneth Paltrow and written a book on nutrition and health. “The Body Book: The Law of Hunger, the Science of Strength, and Other Ways to Love Your Amazing Body” is due out December 31 and available for preorder via Amazon for $16.43. Rather […]
Dan Brown’s ‘Inferno,’ Roth’s ‘Allegiant’ end year as Amazon’s best-sellers
(Relaxnews) – Dan Brown’s “Inferno,” Khaled Hosseini’s “And the Mountains Echoed,” and “The Cuckoo’s Calling” by Robert Galbraith (aka J.K. Rowling) crown Amazon.com’s top 20 best-selling adult books for 2013. Also featuring in the top five were romantic novel “The Husband’s Secret” by Liane Moriarty and the professional guidance of Sheryl Sandberg’s “Lean In: Women, […]