HOLLIE CAVANAGH, JOSHUA LEDET, PHILLIP PHILLIPS AND JESSICA SANCHEZ BATTLE IT OUT TO GET ONE STEP CLOSER TO THE GRAND FINALE LIVE ON A “CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’”-THEMED SHOW WEDNESDAY, MAY 9, ON FOX

SKYLAR LAINE ELIMINATED ON TONIGHT’S “AMERICAN IDOL”

 

Global Superstar and IDOL Judge Jennifer Lopez

plus Season Seven AMERICAN IDOL Winner David Cook

to Perform on Next Results Show Thursday, May 10

 

Tonight, the Top Four Finalists were revealed – Hollie Cavanagh, Joshua Ledet, Phillip Phillips and Jessica Sanchez. One of them will be crowned the next AMERICAN IDOL! After America cast a season-high of nearly 60 million votes for their favorite finalists, it also was revealed tonight that Skylar Laine had received the fewest number of votes and was eliminated from the competition.

 

With only three performance shows left in the season, tune in next week, Wednesday, May 9 (8:00-10:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed), when the Top Four return to the IDOL stage to sing for America’s votes on a “California Dreamin’”– themed performance show.

 

Don’t miss the live results show the following night, Thursday, May 10 (8:00-9:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed), when the Top Three finalists are announced and get set for their hometown visits to see family, friends and fans. In addition, global superstar and AMERICAN IDOL judge, Jennifer Lopez, will perform her hit new song “Dance Again.” Season Seven AMERICAN IDOL winner David Cook also returns to the IDOL stage to perform “The Last Song I’ll Write For You.”

 

The Top Four finalists are:

 

Hollie Cavanagh Hometown: McKinney, TX Age: 18   Keep up with Hollie at: www.twitter.com/CavanaghAI11 www.facebook.com/CavanaghAI11

 

Joshua Ledet Hometown: Westlake, LA Age: 20   Keep up with Joshua at: www.twitter.com/JLedetAI11 www.facebook.com/JLedetAI11

 

 

Phillip Phillips Hometown: Leesburg, GA Age: 21   Keep up with Phillip at: www.twitter.com/PPhillipsAI11 www.facebook.com/PPhillipsAI11

 

Jessica Sanchez  Hometown: San Diego, CA  Age: 16   Keep up with Jessica at: www.twitter.com/JSanchezAI11 www.facebook.com/JSanchezAI11

 

On tonight’s results show, Grammy Award-winning, multi-platinum artist Carrie Underwood performed her hit song “Blown Away” and another Grammy Award-winning, chart-topping act, Coldplay, performed “Paradise” and “Every Teardrop Is A Waterfall,”  two songs from their most recent album, “Mylo Xyloto.”

 

“Like” AMERICAN IDOL on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AmericanIdol. Follow the series on Twitter @AmericanIdol and join the discussion at #Idol. Also, follow host Ryan Seacrest at @RyanSeacrest, and follow the judges: @yo_randyjackson; @JLo; and @iamstevent.

 

AMERICAN IDOL is produced by 19 Entertainment, a division of CKX, Inc. and FremantleMedia North America. The series is created and executive-produced by Simon Fuller, CEO, XIX Entertainment, and executive-produced by Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO, FremantleMedia North America; Ken Warwick, Executive Producer, FremantleMedia North America; and Nigel Lythgoe, CEO, Nigel Lythgoe Productions.

 

See what happens every Thursday when the show ends, but the cameras keep rolling, as the eliminated finalist says an emotional goodbye and exits the IDOL stage. Visit www.americanidol.com for this exclusive insider’s view each week after the West Coast broadcast of the results show, as well as for exclusive videos, interviews, photos and special behind-the-scenes information.

 

Stereopony in America 2012 (a J!-ENT Pictorial by Nergene Arquelada)

In April 2012, the Japanese female rock band known as Stereopony toured the West Coast of the United States and for their April 12th concert at the Yost Theater in Santa Ana, California.  J!-ENT photographer Nergene Arquelada was there to cover their live performance and his photos are featured in his latest J!-ENT Special Pictorial.

The Stereopony 2012 J!-ENT Special Pictorial (via PDF), can be downloaded by clicking here.

■Biography
STEREOPONY is a Japanese all-girl rock band that formed in Okinawa in 2007 and will be attending their first Sakura-Con. Consisting of AIMI (Vocal/Guitar), NOHANA (Bass), and SHIHO (Drums) the band gained their first opportunity on the Japanese rock radio program “SCHOOL OF LOCK!”

STEROPONY should be well known to many anime fans as the artists behind several notable anime themes. Their debut single “Hitohira No Hanabira” was the 17th ending theme for the famous anime series “BLEACH”; released on November 5, 2008 and ranked #25 on the Oricon Weekly Charts. Their 2nd single “Namida No Muko” was the second opening theme for the second season of the Sunrise series “Mobile Suit Gundam 00”; and achieved #2 in the Oricon charts.

STEREOPONY has toured internationally and experienced great success in the Oricon charts. In March 2009, the girls performed in SXSW 2009, and received a thunderous ovation.
Their 3rd single “I do it” is a collaboration with fellow Sony Music Entertainment Japan singer YUI, was released on April 22, 2009. Their debut studio album “A hydrangea blooms” was released on June 17, 2009 and ranked #7 on the Oricon weekly charts. STEROPONY’s 5th single “TSUKIAKARI NO MICHISHIRUBE”, also released with a tie-in with the second season of hit anime series “Darker than Black” which ranked #8 on Oricon. After releasing 2 singles, in June 2010, the girls released their much anticipated 2nd studio album “OVER THE BORDER”.

“Chiisana Mahou”, the opening theme of anime series “Letter Bee REVERSE” was released on December 8th. STEREOPONY collaborated with the band Kariyushi58 to produce the single “Tatoeba Utaenakunattara” released on August 10, 2011. The band’s 10th single, “Arigatō”, was released on September 28, 2011. The music video for “Arigatō”, released on September 1, 2011, features film actor Abe Hiroshi; he is also on the cover of the version B release of the single.

 

‘THE TONIGHT SHOW WITH JAY LENO’ LISTINGS (May 2 – May 11, 2012)

Wednesday, May 2 – Guests include Scarlett Johansson, Blake Shelton and musical guest K’Naan

**Thursday, May 3 – Guests include Robert Downey, Jr., Katharine McPhee and musical guest The Arts For Amnesty Band

Friday, May 4 – Guests include Kristen Stewart, Randy Jackson and musical guest James Morrison

Monday, May 7 – Guests include Michelle Pfeiffer, Bear Grylls and musical guest Snow Patrol

Tuesday, May 8 – Guests include Rick Santorum, Taylor Kitsch and musical guest B.o.B. and O.A.R.

Wednesday, May 9 – Guests include Alison Brie and musical guest “The Voice” Winner

Thursday, May 10 – Guests include Howie Mandel, Vinny Guadagnino and musical guest Sara Watkins

Friday, May 11 – Guests include Jenna Fischer

**denotes changes or additions

 

ACADEMY TO FETE GENE KELLY WITH CENTENNIAL TRIBUTE

Beverly Hills, CA – The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will present a two-night celebration of the life and career of legendary dancer, director and choreographer Gene Kelly on the 100th anniversary of his birth. Film clips, personal remembrances and an exploration of the technology Kelly used to change the look of dance on film will be featured on consecutive evenings: Thursday, May 17, at 7:30 p.m. at the Samuel Goldwyn Theater in Beverly Hills, and Friday, May 18, at 7:30 p.m. at the Linwood Dunn Theater in Hollywood. Both programs will be hosted by Kelly’s widow, film historian Patricia Ward Kelly.

Kelly is perhaps best known for his remarkable dancing, but his talents extended to many different aspects of filmmaking. His work behind the camera, as an innovative director and choreographer, has had a lasting influence on the way that dance is filmed. On screen, he was the proverbial triple-threat as an actor and singer as well as a dancer.

“A Centennial Tribute to Gene Kelly” on May 17 will showcase Kelly’s charisma and creativity, his unique use of props (mops, sheets of newspaper, roller skates) and environments (a rain-drenched street, a creaky old barn), and his extraordinary athleticism in films like “Living in a Big Way” and “The Pirate.”  His beloved classics “An American in Paris” and “Singin’ in the Rain” will be discussed along with later directorial efforts such as “Invitation to the Dance” and “Hello, Dolly!”, with insightful commentary on Kelly’s creative process.

“Gene Kelly: Choreography and the Camera” on May 18, presented by the Academy’s Science and Technology Council, will take a more in-depth look at how Kelly’s contributions helped change the look of dance on film.

Even during the height of his career, Kelly frequently encountered technical barriers and studio resistance in his efforts to build dance numbers into the structure of film and bring the dance, quite literally, into the streets. The program will discuss how he overcame those obstacles and will also explore the innovative ways that he used cinematography, animation and sound to create some of his most iconic scenes.

In 1951 the Academy presented Kelly with an Honorary Award (an Oscar® statuette) for “his versatility as an actor, singer, director and dancer, and specifically for his brilliant achievements in the art of choreography on film.”  Kelly had previously received a Best Actor nomination for his role in “Anchors Aweigh” (1945).

Tickets to “A Centennial Tribute to Gene Kelly” and “Gene Kelly: Choreography and the Camera” are available for purchase. Tickets for each evening are $5 for the general public and $3 for Academy members and students with a valid ID, and may be purchased by mail, at the Academy box office (8949 Wilshire Boulevard, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.), or online at www.oscars.org. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Ticketed seating is unreserved. In the event that tickets are sold out, a standby line will form on the day of the event, and names will be taken when the Box Office opens at 5 p.m.

The Samuel Goldwyn Theater is located at the 8949 Wilshire Boulevard in Beverly Hills. The Linwood Dunn Theater is located at 1313 Vine Street in Hollywood.

For more information call (310) 247-3600 or visit www.oscars.org.

# # #

ABOUT THE ACADEMY
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is the world’s preeminent movie-related organization, with a membership of more than 6,000 of the most accomplished men and women working in cinema. In addition to the annual Academy Awards—in which the members vote to select the nominees and winners­—the Academy presents a diverse year-round slate of public programs, exhibitions and events; provides financial support to a wide range of other movie-related organizations and endeavors; acts as a neutral advocate in the advancement of motion picture technology; and, through its Margaret Herrick Library and Academy Film Archive, collects, preserves, restores and provides access to movies and items related to their history. Through these and other activities the Academy serves students, historians, the entertainment industry and people everywhere who love movies.

FOLLOW THE ACADEMY
www.oscars.org
www.facebook.com/TheAcademy
www.youtube.com/Oscars
www.twitter.com/TheAcademy

 

WHITNEY CUMMINGS IS COMING TO E! WITH NEW WEEKLY TALK SHOW “LOVE YOU, MEAN IT WITH WHITNEY CUMMINGS”

E!’s Wednesday Night One-Two Comedy Punch Pairs Whitney’s Talk Show “Love You, Mean It With Whitney Cummings” With Hit Comedy Series “The Soup” Hosted by Joel McHale

Los Angeles, April 30, 2012 – Actress/Writer/Comedienne Whitney Cummings is partnering with E! Entertainment for the new weekly talk show “Love You, Mean It with Whitney Cummings.” Produced by Borderline Amazing Productions, “Love You, Mean It with Whitney Cummings” is guided by Cummings signature humor, and will be a weekly medley of witty commentary featuring Whitney’s take on everything from the biggest pop culture and celebrity happenings, to life, relationships, sex, and more. Equipped with only a microphone and her laptop, and joined by celebrity guests and comedian friends, including sidekick Julian McCullough, Whitney is poised to make Wednesday nights on E! twice as fun when her show is paired with the network’s popular series “The Soup” beginning in late 2012.

“This show gives me a chance to get back to my stand-up roots,” said Cummings. “And I’m really excited to be able to say (almost) whatever I’d like on TV again. So thanks, E!”

“Bringing audiences even more distinctive comedic voices and clever humor is an important part of our programming strategy and brand evolution,” said Lisa Berger, President, Entertainment Programming E! “We knew that Whitney was something special when she was starting her comedy career on our “Chelsea Lately” round table. It is exciting to see how her career has taken off and we look forward to partnering with Borderline Amazing Productions on this new show, which is the perfect platform to showcase her unabashed comic sensibility.”

“Love You, Mean It with Whitney Cummings” gives the outspoken comedienne free rein to dish on her favorite topics, trends and latest obsessions. Nothing is off limits for this girl who says what everyone else is thinking, whether it’s pondering the wisdom of plastic surgery, the folly of miss-matched Hollywood romances or setting the record straight on pressing rumors circulating the web.

Whitney Cummings first captured national attention with her outrageous stand-up, sketch comedy and appearances on popular improv shows. Shortly thereafter, she further launched her career as a regular round table guest on E!’s “Chelsea Lately”. Last year her hour long Comedy Central Stand Up Special “Money Shot” was nominated for an American Comedy Award. Whitney is the creator, star and executive producer on her autobiographical sitcom on NBC called “Whitney”. She also co-created “Two Broke Girls” for CBS with Michael Patrick King.

“Love You, Mean It with Whitney Cummings” is produced by Borderline Amazing Productions and is executive produced by Chelsea Handler, Whitney Cummings and Tom Brunelle. Brad Wollack serves as co-executive producer.

 

Underworld: Awakening 3D (a J!-ENT Blu-ray Disc Review)

If you love vampires and werewolves and love popcorn action films, “Underworld: Awakening” will definitely interest you.  But the highlight is the fantastic 3D experience of this Blu-ray and its fantastic, immersive lossless soundtrack.  “Underworld: Awakening” is definitely one of the better live action 3D Blu-ray releases I have watched!

Images courtesy of © 2012 Lakeshore Entertainment Group LLC. All Rights Reserved.

TITLE: Underworld: Awakening 3D

FILM RELEASE: 2012

DURATION: 89 Minutes

BLU-RAY DISC INFORMATION: 1080p High Definition (2:40:1), English 7.1 DTS-HD MA, French 5.1 DTS-HD MA, English – Audio Description Track, Subtitles: English, English SDH, French and Spanish

COMPANY: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment

RATED: R (For Strong Violence and Gore, and for Some Language)

Release Date: May 8, 2012

Directed by Mans Marlind, Bjorn Stein

Screenplay by Len Wiseman, John Hlavin, J. Michael Straczynski, Allison Burnett

Story by Len Wiseman

Characters by Kevin Grevioux, Len Wiseman, Danny McBride

Executive Producer: David Kern, James McQuaide, Skip Williamson, Henry Winterstern

Produced by Gary Lucchesi, Tom Rosenberg, Len Wiseman, Richard S. Wright

Music by Paul Haslinger

Cinematography by Scott Kevan

Edited by Jeff McEvoy

Casting by Deborah Aquila, Tricia Wood

Production Design by Claude Pare

Art Direction by Martina Javorova, Gary Myers

Set Decoration by Shane Vieau

Costume Design by Monique Prudhomme

Starring:

Kate Beckinsale as Selene

Stephen Rea as Dr. Jacob Lane

Michael Ealy as Detective Sebastian

Theo James as David

India Eisley as Eve

Sandrine Holt as Lida

Charles Dance as Thomas

Kris Holden-Ried as Quint

Jacob Blair as Officer Kolb

KATE BECKINSALE returns as the ultimate vampire warrioress Selene in Underworld Awakening, the stunning new installment of the epic saga for the first time in 3D. Having escaped years of imprisonment, she finds herself in a changed world where humans have discovered the existence of both Vampire and Lycan clans and are conducting an all-out war to eradicate both immortal species. Now Selene must battle the humans and a frightening new breed of super Lycans to ensure the death dealers’ survival. Regular – KATE BECKINSALE returns as the ultimate vampire warrioress Selene in Underworld Awakening, the stunning new installment of the epic saga. Having escaped years of imprisonment, she finds herself in a changed world where humans have discovered the existence of both Vampire and Lycan clans and are conducting an all-out war to eradicate both immortal species. Now Selene must battle the humans and a frightening new breed of super Lycans to ensure the death dealers’ survival.

It has been nearly a decade since the release of the “Underworld” film.   The original film, directed by Len Wiseman (“Live Free and Die Hard”, “Underworld: Evolution”) and written by Danny McBride, the first film would receive mixed reviews from critics but would make over $95 million in the box office and would pave the way for two more films, a sequel and a prequel.

And now the fourth film, “Underworld: Awakening” directed by Mans Marlind and Bjorn Stein (the duo who worked on the film “Shelter” and “Storm”), join Len Wiseman (who continues to write the films) and reuniting with actress Kate Beckinsale (“Aviator”, “Pearl Harbor”).

“Underworld: Awakening” was presented in theaters in 3D and brought in over $160 million in the box office, becoming the first film of 2012 to break $100 million.

And now the Blu-ray release (featuring both films in 3D and 2D) and DVD will be released in May 2012.

What is “Underworld” all about?

“Underworld” takes place during a time where the vampires and the Lycans (werewolves) are at war. In the past, the Lycans were used as slaves for centuries by the vampires but rebelled courtesy of their leader Lucian and have been in war since.

For vampire/Death Dealer, Selene (played by Kate Beckinsale), her job is to hunt down the Lycans. When she was young, her family was massacred by the Lycans and thus she was taken in by vampire leader Victor (played by Bill Nighy) and given immortal life by being transformed into a vampire.

So, she despises the Lycans and assassinates them. It is said that the Lycans were defeated many centuries ago when their leader Lucian (played by Michael Sheen) was killed and the Lycans that are remaining are survivors that must be eliminated.

But one day, as the vampires were hunting down the Lycans at a subway station, the Lycans fight back and the vampire/Death Dealer Rigel is killed. She tracks them down to their den and another vampire is killed by a Lycan named Raze. When Selene goes to investigate, she finds out that the Lycans have developed a new type of bullet to kill vampires.

When she arrives back to the vampire coven’s mansion, she goes to tell current vampire regent Kraven (played by Shane Brolly) what she discovered but is told to drop it. Selene doesn’t understand why they would drop such important developments and when she goes to do more research, she realizes that the Lycans are following a human named Michael Corvin (played by Scott Speedman).

At the Lycan headquarters, we learn that their scientist Singe is testing blood on kidnapped descendants of the ancient Corvinus family to find a pure source of their ancient and powerful bloodline. Selene wonders why they are pursuing the human and she decides to help him, but in the process, he is bitten by Lucian.

Selene brings the injured Michael back to the vampire’s coven, against Kraven’s wishes. When one of the vampires goes to check on him, she finds a bite by a Lycan and realizes that the human will turn into a Lycan during a full moon. Shocked by the encounter, Michael runs away from the Vampire’s coven.

When Selene continues her research about Lucian, she realizes that only one vampire has witnessed his death and it was Kraven. What if there is a conspiracy and that Lucian is definitely alive, that means Kraven can not be trusted.

Selene manages to help Michael once again but this time, locking him up at a vampire lab area. She explains to him about why she has hatred towards the Lycans and what they did to her family but also learns more about Michael’s history and tells what will happen to him during a full moon.

The relationship between Selene and Michael grows stronger and stronger and sure enough, both vampire and Lycan fall in love.  As the vampires want Michael dead and nearly get their way, Selene eventually saves Michael by biting him and thus, the combination of vampire and Lycan blood has turned Michael into a hybrid of both.  And in the process of protecting the man she loves, she goes against her coven, and kills the Vampire elders.

In “Underworld: Evolution”,  we learn the truth of the blood lines.  It is revealed that Marcus, not Viktor, is the first vampire and one of the three sons of Alexander Corvinus, the first immortal.  Markus was bitten by a bat and became a vampire, his twin brother William was bitten by a wolf and became a Lycan.  The third son, a human is responsible for a line of descendants including Michael, who had the anti-body and eventually become the first vampire-Lycan hybrid.

In the second film, Alexander Corvinus has given Selene his blood and thus given immortality.

Since then, both Selene and Michael have been on the run trying to protect each other from both vampire and Lycan who want them dead.

Which leads us to the fourth film, “Underworld: Awakening”.

After the events of “Underworld: Evolution”, the world now knows that vampires and Lycans exist.  And there is a massive cleansing (known as “The Purge”) as humans now try to exterminate vampires and Lycans.  Survivors have now moved underground, while both Selene and Michael have become the hunted.

Split off from each other, both try to come together during a standoff with the authorities but as Michael is shot and falls into the ocean, Selene goes after him and tries to save him.  But in the process, both are separated by a detonator.

Fast forward, 12 years later and during this time, “The Purge” has now been concluded as 95% of the vampires have been annihilated and the Lycans are considered as extinct.

Selene is being kept inside a cryogenic suspension by the medical corporation known as Antigen, which are trying to create an antidote for the virus which creates vampires and Lycans

Known as “subject 1″, someone has broken into the lab facility and have released Selene.  As Selene awakens and puts on her leather costume, she looks for Michael but is not sure where he is kept and thus she escapes Antigen facilities.

Meanwhile, murders are occurring in the city and while the normal judgment by police is to think that the vampires had committed the crime (since Lycans are thought to be extinct), Detective Sebastian (played by Michael Ealy), looking at how the body was murdered, doesn’t think so.  And he spots Selene, who quickly disappears.

But also spotting Selene is a young vampire named David (played by Theo James).  He goes to track down Selene, who is trying to find answers of where Michael may be.  When David tracks her down, he tells her the truth that the Lycans have been forced to live underground, no food, diseased and something has riled them up in order for them to go back up to the surface.  And he thinks Selene knows the answer to why the Lycans are back.

But Selene starts to see images, images that usually come from the bond that she has with Michael.  Thinking that Michael is in trouble and is being hunted by the Lycans, she and David fight them off but instead of finding Michael, she finds a young girl named Eve (played by India Eisely).

Why does girl have this power and why is Selene reacting to it?  As the three are pursued by the Lycans, Eve tells Selene that she was Subject 2 at Antigen and was responsible for setting her free.  She also revealed that she was in a chamber next to her mother…which would be Selene.  Needless to say, Selene is shocked because 12 years ago, she was with Michael.  Now when she awakens, instead of finding Michael, she finds out that both had a daughter.

We then learn from Dr. Jacob Lane (played by Stephen Rea), director of Antigen, that he is actually a Lycan and the antidote that they are working on is not for humans, but a drug designed to make Lycans immune to the deadly effects of silver on their species and to also heighten their abilities and size.  But since Eve is the child of a hybrid and a vampire, her genetic code is needed and thus, the reason why Antigen and the Lycans are after her.

Selene is determined to protect Eve and hopes to find Michael.  But the only way to find him is by going back to Antigen facilities, where she must fight the Lycans alone.

VIDEO:

“Underworld: Awakening” is presented in 1080p High Definition (2:40:1) aspect ratio and you have the option of watching the film in 3D or 2D.

With that being said, make no doubt about it, “Underworld: Awakening” is one of the better Blu-ray on 3D live action release.  Not only do you get the 3D depth but there are a number of moments where shattering of fragments, blood, artillery, debris and weapons are flying all over the place towards you.   And the great news is that the 3D is constant, it’s not like you will see a 3D effect every 20 minutes.  There is a lot of action in this film and there is no doubt that when “Underworld: Awakening” was made, there was an emphasis put on the action and making the 3D benefit from these action sequences.

With that being said, the video quality for this film is fantastic!  Sony hasn’t really disappointed anyone with their Blu-ray releases of late and “Underworld: Awakening” is a film that retains its cool, dark look with blues, grays and blacks.  Black levels are nice and deep, explosions showcasing lighter colors such as oranges and ambers are vibrant.  Detail is very well done, especially showcasing the vampire or Lycan transformations.  Both 3D and 2D versions look amazing and videophiles should be pleased with both versions.

AUDIO & SUBTITLES:

“Underworld: Awakening” not only showcases magnificent visuals and 3D, the lossless soundtrack is also immersive and fantastic.  Presented in English 7.1 DTS-HD MA, French 5.1 DTS-HD MA and English -Audio Description Track, like the 3D that is constant, as with the action.  There is plenty of action from cars crashing into each other, Selene unleashing a parade of bullets, elevators crashing, bodies being swatted like flies and hearing the groans, the growls, you name it…the audio is coming from all over the place.

I was so pleased with this soundtrack and just hearing constant audio coming from the surround channels was a major plus for me and also, the music soundtrack also is utilized for the surround channels as well.

You get an immersive lossless soundtrack with “Underworld: Awakening” and dialogue is crystal clear, there is nothing bad to say about the soundtrack for this film.  Audiophiles will definitely be pleased!

Subtitles are presented in English, English SDH, French and Spanish.

SPECIAL FEATURES

“Underworld: Awakening” comes with the following special features:

• Filmmakers Commentary - Featuring directors Mans Marlind, Bjorn Stein, producers Richard Wright and Gary Lucchesi, Executive producer and visual effects supervisor James McQuaide, this audio commentary is very active and informative.
• Selene Rises – (12:14) A featurette about Kate Beckinsale reprising her role as Selene and also going into the costume and character development.
• Casting the Future of Underworld – (12:33) A featurette about the two new cast members, Theo James and India Eisley.
• Resuming the Action – (8:52) A featurette about the film’s action sequences, the stunts and the 3D technology used for the film.
• Building a Better Lycan – (10:20) A featurette on how they wanted to upgrade the visuals for the werewolves (Lycans).
• Previsualization Sequences – Featuring six pre-visualization sequences, including an alternate opening sequence: Alternate Opening Sequence (5:29), Car Chase in 3D (1:51), Coven Fight in 3D (1:58), Anitgen Attack – Part 1 (2:19), Antigen Attack – Part 2 (3:52), and Antigen Attack – Part 3 (6:05).
• Awakening a Franchise, Building a Brutal New World – (18:53) A featurette about the technology, special effects, set design for “Underworld: Awakening” and more.
• Blooper Reel – (3:21) Bloopers for “Underworld: Awakening”.
• “Heavy Prey” Music Video by Lacey Sturm feat. Geno Lenardo – (3:25) Featuring the music video “Heavy Prey”.

I have always looked at the “Underworld” films as your vampire vs. werewolf popcorn action film series.  With “Underworld: Awakening”, the writers were moving away from the “Twilight” mushy romance (or Romeo & Juliet romance, as I called the first two films).

This time around, Juliet (Selene) is separated from her Romeo (Michael) and the world has turned against them.  They are the hunted and she lost 12-years of her life, to find out that she has a child who may be the most powerful child with vampire and Lycan blood, and most importantly, having the blood of Alexander Corvinus, hence the immortality.

And what is quite interesting is the introduction of the two new characters, we have “Secret Life of the American Teenager” actress India Eisley playing Eve and a vampire named David (played by Theo James) as the next generation who will play an important role in the future of the films.

I admit that while “Underworld” films are typically popcorn action films, there was depth in the storyline as it focused on the war between vampires and Lycans and treachery that went on behind-the-scenes.  There was a sense of brooding darkness that followed the characters but this time around, since most of the vampires and Lycans have been massacred, the film changes from being vampire vs. Lycans film to now the humans vs. the vampires, Lycans and hybrids.

And there was no doubt that these films were now more action heavy, designed for 3D and the storyline, was made to be kept simple for those who have never watched the films in the trilogy.  And thus, the storyline is rather subjective.  Those who love the original storyline for its violent action but also romance, you can’t have a romance in “Underworld: Awakening” when Juliet has been separated from her Romeo. So, without the romantic angle which has been a big part of the film series, you’re left with the action and a storyline about being the hunted.

And once again,  it’s another popcorn action film and with actress Kate Beckinsale wearing a tight leather uniform but this time with upgraded visuals due to technology and a futuristic setting.  I felt that the makeup and creature design were fantastic for this film as with the visual effects, especially the 3D and fantastic lossless audio.

The video and the lossless soundtrack were absolutely amazing and these two have been the strong points of the “Underworld” films but this time, they have raised the bar of how things look and sound.  The 3D really makes a difference and the constant immersive audio was a major plus.   And to top things off, there are a good number of special features to keep “Underworld” fans busy.  Make no doubt about it, this is a Blu-ray release that Blu-ray 3D enthusiasts plus video and audiophiles will surely enjoy!

Overall, while “Underworld: Awakening” is not a film that focuses on a deep storyline, fans of the previous films know what to expect and that is a lot of bullets, a lot of deaths, non-stop action and Kate Beckinsale looking awesome a decade later in tight black leather.

A worthy continuation of the “Underworld” film series that leans very heavy on the action, even those who have never watched an “Underworld” film can watch this film and enjoy it (there is an explanation of the first two films at the beginning of the film).  And for those expecting a lot of blood and gore, you get some of that as well in “Underworld: Awakening”.

If you are looking for an all-out action film with vampires vs. werewolves, “Underworld: Awakening” will definitely appeal to you!  And for those who have been wanting better Blu-ray 3D experiences, “Underworld: Awakening” is one of the better 3D live-action Blu-rays that I have seen in a while.

 

RYAN SEACREST RETURNS AS HOST OF “AMERICAN IDOL”

Emmy® Award-nominated Ryan Seacrest will continue as host of AMERICAN IDOL, broadcast television’s No. 1 show. Seacrest has served as host of AMERICAN IDOL since its debut on June 11, 2002. Over the past decade, he has guided the IDOL contestants and judges through each season’s incredible journey, from the first tickets to Hollywood to every star-studded finale. Seacrest has introduced every guest performer, played referee with the judges and was the first to announce and congratulate each of the winners.

“For the last 11 seasons, I’ve had the privilege to be a part of one of television’s most iconic shows. It’s been a wild ride, and I’m excited for my journey with AMERICAN IDOL to continue,” Seacrest said. “The legions of fans, amazingly talented contestants, judges, and producers, along with the hard working IDOL crew, impress me every time we go on air and make hosting the show a dream job. I especially appreciate the support and confidence of Peter Rice, Mike Darnell and the entire FOX team – as well as the support of everyone at FremantleMedia North America – and I look forward to continuing our partnership.”

“Ryan is one of a kind,” added Mike Darnell, President of Alternative Entertainment, Fox Broadcasting Company. “His ability to engage the viewers, keep the contestants at ease during intense moments and adapt to any situation, especially during the live shows, solidifies him as the absolute best in the business. He is an integral part of why AMERICAN IDOL is a true phenomenon, and we can’t imagine doing this show without him.”

“I am thrilled that Ryan will continue to be the face of AMERICAN IDOL. He runs the show with such expertise, warmth and charm that he makes one of the hardest jobs in television look easy,” noted Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO, FremantleMedia North America. “He is one of the best in the business and we are lucky to have him.”

“Ryan has been with AMERICAN IDOL from the very first day. I can’t imagine the show without him,” stated creator and executive producer Simon Fuller. “He is the consummate host and an exemplary professional. Having Ryan continue to be a part of the AMERICAN IDOL family is great news for everyone.”

ABOUT RYAN SEACREST

With his thriving broadcasting career and multiple ventures, Ryan Seacrest is at the forefront of the media and entertainment industry. While hosting and producing multiple television and radio programs, building his Ryan Seacrest Productions banner (RSP) into a leading entertainment production company, and managing a myriad of media investments and brand ventures, Seacrest is redefining what it means to be a successful Hollywood entrepreneur.

Seacrest holds preeminent positions in broadcast television, nationally syndicated radio, local radio and cable as both a producer and on-air host. He is celebrated internationally as host of the top-rated primetime talent showcase AMERICAN IDOL, and hosts and produces “E! News” and its red carpet awards show coverage. He also serves as an executive producer and co-host of “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest.” He has been nominated for an Emmy Award in the “Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality-Competition Program” category for his work on AMERICAN IDOL, and has also hosted the live network broadcast of the Emmy Awards show. On radio, Seacrest is host of “On Air with Ryan Seacrest,” his market-topping No. 1 nationally syndicated Los Angeles morning drive-time radio show for Clear Channel’s 102.7 KIIS-FM, as well as a nationally-syndicated Top 40 radio show.

In 2006, Seacrest launched Ryan Seacrest Productions (RSP), which has since become a television production powerhouse. RSP produces the hit series “Keeping Up with the Kardashians,” one of cable’s highest-rated shows, and the spin-offs “Khloe and Lamar,” “Kourtney and Kim Take New York” and “Kourtney and Khloe Take Miami.” RSP also produced the Emmy Award-winning reality series “Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution.” RSP recently produced two new reality series: “Melissa and Tye” and “Shahs of Sunset.” In January 2012, Clear Channel acquired a minority stake in RSP.

In early 2012, Seacrest entered into a joint venture through a holding company, Ryan Seacrest Media, along with HDNet, AEG, and Creative Artists Agency (CAA) to rebrand HDNet/HDNet Canada and launch AXS TV (pronounced: access). AXS TV will debut this summer, providing viewers with exclusive behind-the-scenes access to live concerts and music festivals, red carpet premieres, award shows, parties, pop culture events, and in-depth interviews with the people and artists who make live entertainment so uniquely fascinating.

Seacrest also has extensive deals with brand heavyweights Proctor & Gamble, Coca-Cola and Microsoft, and recently announced a strategic marketing and technology alliance with Eventful, Inc.

Seacrest, along with his family, is also committed to the Ryan Seacrest Foundation (RSF), a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for seriously ill and injured children through unique programs that utilize multimedia and interactive platforms. RSF is building broadcast media centers within hospitals for children to explore the creative realms of radio, television and new media. RSF has launched two centers: Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

Originally from Atlanta, GA, Seacrest’s professional career in broadcasting began at the age of 16 when he applied for an internship at one of Atlanta’s top radio stations, WSTR-STAR 94. While working at STAR 94 he finished high school and went on to attend the University of Georgia where he majored in journalism. Seacrest currently resides in Los Angeles, CA.

AMERICAN IDOL is produced by 19 Entertainment, a division of CKX, Inc. and FremantleMedia North America, Inc. The series is created and executive-produced by Simon Fuller, CEO, XIX Entertainment, and executive-produced by Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO, FremantleMedia North America, Inc.; Ken Warwick, Executive Producer, FremantleMedia North America, Inc.; and Nigel Lythgoe, CEO, Nigel Lythgoe Productions.

Visit www.americanidol.com for exclusive videos, interviews and photos, as well as special behind-the-scenes information and all of your AMERICAN IDOL news.

 

STYLE MEDIA’S “GIULIANA & BILL” GETS THE NEWS OF A LIFETIME THIS TUESDAY, APRIL 24 AT 8PM ET/PT

Style To Premiere “Giuliana & Bill: Baby Dreams”
A Surrogacy Special Hosted By Giuliana and Bill Rancic Immediately Following At 9pm ET/PT

LOS ANGELES – April 23, 2012 – As announced this morning on the “Today” show, Giuliana and Bill Rancic are having a baby via a gestational carrier. For the past five seasons on “Giuliana & Bill,” viewers have followed the couple as they have struggled to conceive, going through three rounds of in vitro fertilization, a miscarriage and then Giuliana’s battle with breast cancer. But on Tuesday, April 24 at 8pm ET/PT viewers will get a behind the scenes look at their decision to proceed with a gestational carrier and the moving phone call that they are in fact pregnant.

“Over the years we have opened our lives to Style viewers,” said Giuliana and Bill Rancic. “We are thrilled to be able to share this happy news with our fans and to help inform others who may also be struggling with fertility. This Style special will answer many questions we also had during this process.”

Immediately following the poignant episode, Style will premiere a 30-minute special on surrogacy, “Giuliana & Bill: Baby Dreams,” hosted by

“Giuliana & Bill” is produced by Comcast Entertainment Studios, a division of NBCUniversal. Executive producers are Robert Sizemore and Jay James for Comcast Entertainment Studios and Giuliana Rancic and Bill Rancic for You & I Productions. Renee G. Simon and Ruth Rafidi serve as network executives on the show. Giuliana and Bill Rancic at 9pm ET/PT. Nearly 7 million families are struggling to get pregnant, accounting for approximately 10 percent of the American population. While pregnancy through a gestational carrier is still a small but growing field, more than 1,400 U.S. babies were born this way in 2010, and many more such births are thought to go unreported. The special will explore several couples’ surrogacy journeys and uncover some of the myths and controversy surrounding this growing trend.

 

COLTON DIXON ELIMINATED ON “AMERICAN IDOL”

TOP SIX FINALISTS PERFORM LIVE

PLUS A SPECIAL GROUP PERFORMANCE

WITH QUEEN’S BRIAN MAY AND ROGER TAYLOR,

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25, ON FOX

 

Katy Perry, The Queen Extravaganza and Season 10 Finalist Stefano Langone to Perform

on Next Results Show Thursday, April 26

 

Colton Dixon was eliminated tonight on AMERICAN IDOL after he received the fewest of the 53 million votes cast for the finalists. Also on tonight’s results show, LMFAO performed their smash hit, “Sorry For Party Rocking,” and AMERICAN IDOL Season Eight winner Kris Allen performed his new single, “The Vision Of Love.”

 

Next week, on Wednesday, April 25 (8:00-10:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed), the Top Six – Hollie Cavanagh, Skylar Laine, Joshua Ledet, Phillip Phillips, Jessica Sanchez and Elise Testone – return to the IDOL stage to sing for America’s votes on a Queen-themed performance show. The finalists also will get to perform a group medley with Brian May and Roger Taylor, original members of the legendary rock group Queen.

 

Tune in the following night, Thursday, April 26 (8:00-9:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed), to the live results show to find out which Top Six finalist is sent home. In addition, Katy Perry will perform her newest single, “Part of Me”; the official touring Queen tribute, The Queen Extravaganza, will perform their classic smash hit “Somebody To Love”; and AMERICAN IDOL Season 10 finalist Stefano Langone will perform his new single, “I’m On A Roll.”

 

The Top Six finalists are:

 

Hollie Cavanagh Hometown: McKinney, TX Age: 18   Keep up with Hollie at: www.twitter.com/CavanaghAI11 www.facebook.com/CavanaghAI11

 

Skylar Laine Hometown: Brandon, MS Age: 18   Keep up with Skylar at: www.twitter.com/SLaineAI11 www.facebook.com/SLaineAI11

 

Joshua Ledet Hometown: Westlake, LA Age: 19   Keep up with Joshua at: www.twitter.com/JLedetAI11 www.facebook.com/JLedetAI11

 

Phillip Phillips Hometown: Leesburg, GA Age: 21   Keep up with Phillip at: www.twitter.com/PPhillipsAI11 www.facebook.com/PPhillipsAI11

 

Jessica Sanchez  Hometown: San Diego, CA  Age: 16   Keep up with Jessica at: www.twitter.com/JSanchezAI11 www.facebook.com/JSanchezAI11

 

Elise Testone  Hometown: Charleston, SC  Age: 28   Keep up with Elise at: www.twitter.com/ETestoneAI11 www.facebook.com/ETestoneAI11

 

“Like” AMERICAN IDOL on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AmericanIdol. Follow the series on Twitter @AmericanIdol and join the discussion at #Idol. Also, follow host Ryan Seacrest at @RyanSeacrest, and follow the judges: @yo_randyjackson; @JLo; and @iamstevent.

 

AMERICAN IDOL is produced by 19 Entertainment, a division of CKX, Inc. and FremantleMedia North America, Inc. The series is created and executive-produced by Simon Fuller, CEO, XIX Entertainment, and executive-produced by Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO, FremantleMedia North America, Inc.; Ken Warwick, Executive Producer, FremantleMedia North America, Inc.; and Nigel Lythgoe, CEO, Nigel Lythgoe Productions.

 

See what happens every Thursday when the show ends, but the cameras keep rolling, as the eliminated finalist says an emotional goodbye and exits the IDOL stage. Visit www.americanidol.com for this exclusive insider’s view each week after the West Coast broadcast of the results show, as well as for exclusive videos, interviews, photos and special behind-the-scenes information.

 

OXYGEN’S “HOUSE” PARTY AIRS FRIDAY, APRIL 20 BEGINNING AT 10PM ET/PT

NEW YORK – April 18, 2012 – Dr. Gregory House and his team continue to tackle an assortment of medical mysteries on Oxygen with four season six episodes of the hit series “House” airing on Friday, April 20 at 10PM ET/PT. Viewers can tweet with fellow “House” fans by using #House and follow the drama with @oxygen on Twitter.

“House” is a quirky medical drama starring Hugh Laurie as Dr. Gregory House, an unconventional medical genius who heads a team of doctors at the fictional Princeton-Plainsboro Teaching Hospital in New Jersey. The critically acclaimed series has won several awards, including five Primetime Emmy® Awards, two Golden Globe® Awards, a Peabody Award and nine People’s Choice Awards.

The following episodes will air on Friday, April 20 beginning at 10PM ET/PT:

“Wilson”

Wilson insists on treating the case of a friend and former patient, Tucker, who is suffering from paralysis of his right arm. However, he finds difficulty separating his feelings from his professional attitude. Meanwhile, Cuddy tries to buy a new house.

“The Down Low”

A drug dealer collapses during a sale, but refuses to reveal personal information that might incriminate him. At the same time, Foreman’s teammates conspire to play a practical joke on him, while House and Wilson both aim their sights on an attractive new neighbor, Nora.

“Remorse”

House decides to take on the case of a beautiful female executive based on her looks, and the other males on the team are equally smitten. Meanwhile, House tries to resolve his past with a former medical school colleague he wronged.

“Move the Chains”

The team disagrees on how to treat a college football player who wants to be cured in time to compete in NFL tryouts. Meanwhile, Foreman’s brother Marcus pays him a visit.

Source: www.tv.com

About Oxygen Media

Oxygen Media is a multiplatform lifestyle brand that delivers relevant and engaging content to young women who like to “live out loud.” Oxygen is rewriting the rulebook for women’s media by changing how the world sees entertainment from a young woman’s point of view. Through a vast array of unconventional and original content including “The Glee Project,” “Bad Girls Club,” and “Tori & Dean: Home Sweet Hollywood,” the growing cable network is the premier destination to find unique and groundbreaking unscripted programming. “The Glee Project” is a winner of a 2012 Gracie Award which honors programming created for women, by women and about women for “Outstanding Reality Show.” A social media trendsetter, Oxygen is a leading force in engaging modern young women, wherever they are, with popular, award winning features online including www.OxygenLive.com, the real time social viewing party that is also available as an app for the iPhone and iPad. Oxygen is available in 79 million homes, and can be found online and on mobile devices at www.oxygen.com. Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/OxygenPR. Oxygen Media is a service of NBCUniversal.

 

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