Tuesday, June 12, 2012

ENCORE KICKS OFF THE SUMMER WITH The CAPTIVATING TWO-PART Crime DRAMA “THORNE: SLEEPYHEAD” AND “THORNE: SCAREDY CAT” PREMIERING ON TUESDAY, JUNE 12 AND WEDNESDAY, JUNE 13 AT 9PM ET/PT

Centering on the complex and unpredictable Detective Inspector Tom Thorne (David Morrissey), this ENCORE Original delves into a pair of spine-tingling, unspeakable crimes. Adapted from two favorites in Mark Billingham’s bestselling series of novels, “Sleepyhead” (2001) & “Scaredy Cat” (2002), Thorne leads an intense chase through chilling crime scenes, deliberately manipulated clues and, ultimately, the darkest depths of London.

“Thorne: Sleepyhead” is directed by Stephen Hopkins (“House of Lies,” “24”) and executive produced by the series star, actor David Morrissey (“The Walking Dead,” Centurion, State of Play), who portrays Detective Inspector Tom Thorne. Morrissey is joined by cast members Natascha McElhone (Romeo and Juliet (2013), “Californication”), Aidan Gillen (Dark Knight Rises, “Game of Thrones,” “The Wire”) and Eddie Marsan (Snow White and the Huntsman, Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows).

While investigating a series of unusual attacks on young women, Thorne finds himself revisiting the nightmares of his past as he races against time to find a mysterious serial killer. His first three victims are found dead. The fourth victim, Alison Willetts survived an excruciating attack, which left her in a vegetative state where she is struggling to stay alive. Thorne knows that there are more deaths to come, as the killer enjoys toying with Thorne just as much as he gets a thrill out of pursuing his sick fantasy.

“Thorne: Scaredy Cat” is the second chapter in the “Thorne” series and delivers a suspenseful, spine-tingling examination of power and submission. This chilling adaptation of Mark Billingham’s bestselling novel stars actor and executive producer, David Morrissey as the compelling Detective Inspector Tom Thorne. Morrissey is joined by Sandra Oh (“Grey’s Anatomy”), Eddie Marsan and Aidan Gillen.

After the bodies of two female victims are found at the same time – killed in the exact same way – Thorne finds himself on the hunt for not one, but two serial killers who seem to be working together, yet killing separately. Thorne starts to unravel a case that twists and turns back through ten years. And when the suspect escapes, he finds himself on a desperate hunt for two killers again – one who is desperate to stop and one who is terrified of the consequences if he does.

THORNE “SLEEPYHEAD” premieres Tuesday, June 12th on ENCORE at 9pm ET/PT.

THORNE “SCAREDY CAT” continues Wednesday, June 13th on ENCORE at 9pm ET/PT.

Monday, June 11, 2012

Hollywood's latest breakout actress: Alex Lombard.

Versatile beauty with exquisite acting chops, ALEX LOMBARD, co-stars in 20th Century Fox's anticipated summer blockbuster, "Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter," as 'Gabrielle,' the love interest of 'Henry Sturgess,' the 900-year old vampire played by Dominic Cooper. The high-concept, provocative film explores the secret life of our most famous president and an untold story that shaped our nation as only visionary filmmakers Tim Burton and Timur Bekmambetov (director of "Wanted") could tell. Together, they bring a fresh and visceral voice to the bloodthirsty lore of the vampire, imagining Lincoln as history's greatest hunter of the undead with unique casting which includes Rufus Sewall, Mary Elizabeth Winsted and Benjamin Walker. Film is set for wide release June 22nd.

The stunning beauty is best known for her critically lauded role in "Inception" with Leonardo DiCaprio. She attained acclaim opposite Shannyn Sossamon in "Man Without A Head" and recurred on TV shows such as "Big Love," "How I Met Your Mother" and "Days of Our Lives." Since, the captivating Lombard has been compared to "Mad Men's" Elisabeth Moss for her diverse range and memorable beauty.

"Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter" Trailer:




Ms. Lombard will be heading to New York with the starring cast for the world premiere at Lincoln Center.  Keep your eyes on this rising, breakout star and be sure to catch her in her star role in this season's long-awaited film, "Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter."

SOURCE Integrated PR Agency

IFC Films Presents a Special Viewing of "Trishna" on June 13, 2012 at the Los Angeles Film Festival

LA OPENING DAY ANNOUNCEMENT!


IFC Films Presents

"Trishna"


Starring FREIDA PINTO & RIZ AHMED

Directed by MICHAEL WINTERBOTTOM


Based on Thomas Hardy's classic novel Tess of the D'Ubervilles, master filmmaker Michael Winterbottom's newest film stars Freida Pinto who soars as Trishna in her most revealing performance yet. Trishna lives with her family in a village in Rajasthan, India's largest state. As the eldest daughter, she works in a nearby resort to help pay the bills. Jay (Riz Ahmed, FOUR LIONS) is the wealthy son of a property developer.

When he takes up managing a resort at his father's request, he meets Trishna at a dance and their fates cross. Jay finds every opportunity to win Trishna's affection and she accepts his efforts with shy curiosity. But when the two move to Mumbai and become a couple, Jay's deep family bond threatens the young lovers' bliss.

Shot with Winterbottom's agile camera, TRISHNA is a powerful look at the tension between ancient privilege and modern equality, between codes of urban and rural life and ultimately a hymn to both the glory and the tragedy that comes with beauty in all forms.

Distributor: IFC Films
Cast: Freida Pinto, Riz Ahmed
Director: Michael Winterbottom
Running Time: 108 Minutes
MPAA Rating: Rated R for sexuality, some violence, drug use and language.
Release Date: July 13, 2012

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

FEMME FATALES IS BACK – WITH AUDIO COMMENTARY AVAILABLE EVERY WEEK ONLY ON iTUNES

“Gun Twisted” with Antonio Sabato, Jr. debuted Friday 06/01


Super-Sized Season Finale Airs August 10th


LOS ANGELES, CA – Fans of FEMME FATALES, the hit series on Cinemax ®, will get to enjoy every episode even more with the weekly FEMME FATALES PODCAST, available on iTunes. These audio commentaries feature the show’s creative team, including Executive Producers Mark A. Altman (Necessary Roughness, Castle) and Steve Kriozere (NCIS, V.I.P.) along with the stars of each episode doing live audio commentary for every episode sharing exclusive behind-the-scenes anecdotes and insight into each and every thrilling installment.

In addition to the weekly podcast roundtables, fans can now purchase the show’s acclaimed soundtrack by composer Joe Kraemer (“The Way of the Gun”) on compact disc or as a digital download at iTunes.

FEMME FATALES, ripped from pages of the bestselling magazine, is the cult smash Entertainment Weekly calls “a badass-chick anthology series” and Geek Monthly hails as “50% Tarantino, 50% Sin City, 100% Cool.” Each episode is about powerful, sexy and dangerous women styled in the tradition of pulp stories, film noir and graphic novels. The half-hour program features stories inspired by such noir classic as Double Indemnity and Pulp Fiction and classic thriller TV series like The Twilight Zone. Featuring an array of sensational guest stars, classic songs, suspenseful storytelling and a stunning score each week, Femme Fatales will leave you in breathless agreement with UGO TV which raves “If you haven’t been watching Femme Fatales, you really don’t know what you’re missing.”

In each stand-alone episode, which is part of a bigger interweaving mythology, women find extraordinary ways of coping with their problems, channeling their survival instincts and bringing out their inner guile. The series was recently honored as an Official Selection of the prestigious Sitges Film Festival in Spain, which screened seven episodes from the series critically acclaimed first season.

FEMME FATALES is available internationally from eOne Entertainment.

Tuesday, June 5, 2012

PROFILES IN HISTORY IS SET TO AUCTION OFF THE WORLD'S MOST IMPORTANT WILLY WONKA COLLECTION

THE ITEMS ARE SET TO BE AUCTIONED OFF THIS JULY,

MORE DETAILS TO FOLLOW

LOS ANGELES, MAY 2- Profiles in History, run by Joe Maddalena, is proud to announce the world's most important collection of Willy Wonka & the Chocalate Factory items will be up for auction this July. A part of the Dreier Collection, this will more than likely be the last time any collector has a chance to own these iconic items.

First up and most significantly is the Gene Wilder "Willy Wonka" signature costume, pictured left. The costume consists of flamboyant purple velvet frock coat, wool & camelhair slacks, off-white shirt, distinctive purple & violet lamé vest with floral design and satin bow tie. Originally obtained from Michael D. Beinner, Director of Field Advertising and Publicity for Paramount Pictures who was gifted the costume following its promotional tour of several key cities around the U.S. Without doubt, one of the most iconic and instantly recognizable costumes in the history of film. It is estimated to fetch $80,000 – $120,000.

Also up for auction are three iconic items from the collection of Julie Dawn Cole, who played “Veruca Salt.” First is an original screen-used Everlasting Gobstopper, one of only two known to exist, pictured below. It comes with a notarized copy of a letter from Ms. Cole stating (in part), “The Everlasting Gobstopper was used in the Inventing Room Scene. Mr. Wonka gives each of the children one Everlasting Gobstopper each. Typically Veruca tries to wangle another one, if only she had succeeded! But at least I was allowed to keep this one." .” It is expected to fetch $20,000 – $30,000. You can also own the Golden Egg, screen used by Julie Dawn Cole during the "I Want it Now," musical number. The egg comes with a notarized copy of a letter from Ms. Cole stating (in part), “The Filming of this [Golden Egg] scene and Veruca’s demise was actually filmed on my 13th birthday. The egg was presented to me at the end of the day’s shoot as a birthday present.” The egg is fashioned from polystyrene foam painted gold and is expected to fetch $20,000 – $30,000. The third item from the collection of Julie Dawn Cole is an original screen used Golden Ticket. This ticket was used in the memorable scene where it is found at “Salt’s Salted Peanuts” factory following Mr. Salt’s ambitious efforts to secure a Golden Ticket for his daughter. Comes with a notarized copy of a letter from Ms. Cole stating (in part), “The [Golden] ticket was used in the scene where it is found at ‘Salt’s Salted Peanut factory’. At last Veruca gets her hands on the ticket and Slugworth whispers in her ear…” The ticket is expected to fetch $20,000 – $30,000.

Other delicious Wonka items up for auction include a prop Wonka Scrumdidlyumptious bar from the collection of actor Peter Ostrum, who played Charlie Bucket. The bar consists of the heavy stock paper wrapper surrounding a light tissue-filled center. It represents the only known hero Wonka Scrumdidilyumptious bar in existence and is expected to fetch $3,000 – $5,000. A collection of five prop Wonka chocolate bars, each constructed of dense cardboard, so we don't recommend taking a bite. Precious few artifacts survived from this classic film. The day after shooting wrapped at the Bavarian studios, Cabaret started shooting and the vast majority of the Wonka props were discarded. This grouping of five bars represents the largest single grouping of authentic screen used Wonka Bars in existence and is expected to fetch $6,000 – $8,000. Finally, you can own an Oompa Loompa costume worn by one of the little-people actors portraying the industrious and trustworthy factory workers of Willy Wonka. The costume consists of a rust-colored wool shirt with striped collar and cuffs, a pair of white polyester jodhpurs with large buttons attaching integral suspenders, a pair of brown leather slippers with attached pom-pom, each with handwritten notation reading “Clayton” (a possible reference to George Claydon who played one of the Oompa Loompas) and a green curly-haired wig. This is the only complete Oompa Loompa costume known to have survived and it remains as one of the most instantly recognizable costumes in film history. It is expected to fetch $8,000 – $12,000.

For more information or images, please contact Nancy Seltzer & Associates below.

ABOUT PROFILES IN HISTORY
Founded in 1985 by Joseph Maddalena, Profiles in History is the nation's leading dealer in guaranteed-authentic original historical autographs, letters, documents, vintage signed photographs and manuscripts. Born into a family of antiques dealers in Rhode Island, Joseph "Joe" Maddalena learned early on how to turn his passion of collecting historical autographs into a career. Needing to support himself, Joe turned to his hobby of buying and selling historical documents as a potential way to earn revenue. On weekends he scoured old Hollywood bookstores for letters and rare books. Upon graduation from Pepperdine, Joe pursued his passion to become a full-time dealer of historical documents, and opened his first office in 1985. A lifetime member of the Manuscript Society, Joe is widely recognized as the nation's leading authority on entertainment memorabilia and historical documents. Profiles in History has established itself as the world’s largest auctioneer of original Hollywood memorabilia, having held some of the most prestigious and successful auctions of Hollywood memorabilia and owning virtually every Guinness Book record prices for original screen-used memorabilia. With an extensive network of dealers, collectors, and institutions, Profiles in History is proud to play an important role in the preservation of motion picture history. Prior Profiles in History Hollywood auctions highlights include the "Cowardly Lion" costume from The Wizard of Oz ($805,000); Steve McQueen's "Michael Delaney" racing suit from Le Mans ($960,000); a Panavision motion picture camera used by George Lucas to film Star Wars ($624,000); a full-scale model T-800 Endoskeleton from Terminator 2: Judgment Day ($488,750); Marilyn Monroe's platinum & diamond wedding band from her marriage to Joe DiMaggio ($504,000); Marilyn Monroe’s “Diamonds” dress from Gentlemen Prefer Blondes ($356,500); a King Kong 1933 six-sheet movie poster ($345,000); Luke Skywalker’s light saber from Star Wars ($240,000); Margaret Hamilton’s “Wicked Witch” hat from The Wizard Of Oz ($230,000); and The Invisible Man 1933 one-sheet movie poster ($230,000). From the history-making Debbie Reynolds Auction in June 2011, Profiles in History sold the Marilyn Monroe "Subway" Dress from The Seven Year Itch for $5.52M, the Marilyn Monroe signature red-sequined showgirl gown from Gentlemen Prefer Blondes for $1.44M and the Audrey Hepburn Ascot Dress from My Fair Lady for $4.44M. In February, 2012, Profiles in History arranged the sale of a pair of Judy Garland screen-used Ruby Slippers from The Wizard of Oz to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences. In addition, Joe Maddalena is the star of Syfy's hit show, Hollywood Treasure. With already 24 episodes aired, Hollywood Treasure is gearing up for an exciting return on May 22, 2012 at 10pm (ET/PT) taking viewers into the fascinating world of showbiz and pop culture memorabilia.

SOURCE Nancy Seltzer, Nancy Seltzer & Associates

Saturday, June 2, 2012

Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo partners with Legendary Horror Icon Elvira Mistress of the Dark.

Stan Lee’s Comikaze to be the only place You can MEET Elvira



Beverly Hills, Calif.(May 2012) - Stan Lee's Comikaze Expo Presented by POW! Entertainment, the largest multimedia pop culture, comic book, horror and gaming convention in Los Angeles, has set the date for its 2nd annual show at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

After rebranding and joining forces with Stan Lee and Pow! Entertainment, Comikaze Expo has brought in a great new partner- Cassandra Peterson, best known for her character, Elvira, Mistress of the Dark.

Like Stan Lee, Cassandra Peterson was a Guest of Honor at 2011's inaugural Comikaze Expo. Impressed by Comikaze's success (as well as Stan Lee's role), Peterson wanted to be involved. The Elvira creator is taking a very active role in the planning of the largest pop-culture expo in Los Angeles.

Peterson and Stan Lee's Comikaze Expo plan on creating interactive content unlike any other convention.

"I'm thrilled to join forces with the great Stan Lee in becoming a part of Comikaze Expo! Finally, a first class pop culture convention in my hometown of Los Angeles! " says Peterson. Stan Lee's Comikaze CEO Regina Carpinelli stated, "Elvira is part of our pop culture history. Not only is Cassandra Peterson a pretty face, but she is also brings so much to the table. She's one of the most brilliant businesswomen of our time, and has some fantastic ideas. I am so proud to call her our Partner. I like to think of her as Mistress of the Board" Peterson, who retired from appearing at Conventions as Elvira. Will be dressing as her famous character for Stan Lee’s Comikaze. “Stan Lee’s Comikaze, is the only convention in North America where you can get a photo or meet with Elvira. How cool is that?” says Carpinelli.

Peterson and the Stan Lee's Comikaze team are launching an interactive webseries/film festival for the show taking place September 15-16th. Elvira and Peaches Christ's Horror Hunt will be akin to American Idol-and Mystery Science Theater 3000. Aspiring and amateur filmmakers will submit their videos to Comikaze. A team of judges will evaluate them, and the top 10 will be picked-or panned by Elvira and her co-host, Peaches Christ on the hilarious new web series, Horror Hunt. A final winner will be chosen and flown out to LA. The winner will also receive a red carpet premier at the historic Vista Theater, as well as an official screening at Stan Lee's Comikaze Expo. They will also be featured as a guest at Comikaze.

Elvira and Peaches Christ's Horror Hunt will revolutionize the way film festivals are seen.

In conjunction with Horror Hunt, Stan Lee's Comikaze Expo has also launched The Search for the Next SuperHero and Villainous Villain, an art contest promoting creativity and budding artists. They have also announced a partnership with Star City Games, Americas largest Magic The Gathering tournament company. Stan Lee's Comikaze Expo will hold a Magic The Gathering tournament, with over $20,000 in cash prizes. All contests and competitions are open to the general public and more info can be found at www.comikazeexpo.com .

Renowned comic creator, Todd McFarlane has also been announced as a Guest of Honor. The Spawn creator will be signing books and taking part in select programming. As well as My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic voice actress Tara Strong.

Further announcements around Stan Lee's Comikaze Expo 2012 will be revealed leading up to the convention. Tickets are now available through pre-sale at $15 . Stan Lee's Comikaze Expo presented by POW! is also offering a unique ticket that enlists fans into the Stan Lee's Comikaze Army. This interactive ticket includes a weekend pass, armband, dog tag, military ID for discounts on merchandise and select vendors as well as collector's edition posters (children under 12 are free) through www.comikazeexpo.com.


About Comikaze
Comikaze Expo is the largest multimedia pop culture convention in Los Angeles. The brainchild of Southern Californian Regina Carpinelli and her siblings, this unique event brings together the best in comics, gaming, horror, sci-fi, fantasy, anime and all other cult programming.

In 2012, Carpinelli partnered with comic book legend Stan Lee and horror icon Cassandra Peterson to rebrand as Stan Lee's Comikaze Presented by POW! Entertainment.

Comikaze takes place September 15-16, 2012 at the Los Angeles Convention Center, and offers a slate of innovative programming, panels, contests and other activities that provide fans access to their favorite artists and creators in this adventure-packed weekend.

For more info, visit www.ComikazeExpo.com.

About POW! Entertainment
POW! Entertainment, Inc., (OTCQB: POWN), a multi-media and entertainment company, was founded by noted comic book and entertainment figure Stan Lee, together with award-winning producer Gill Champion and intellectual property specialist Arthur Lieberman. POW!'s principals have extensive backgrounds in the entertainment industry encompassing the creation, production and licensing of original intellectual properties, including some of the most successful entertainment franchises of all time. POW! is capitalizing on this combined expertise to create and develop both the legacy and digital media components of the entertainment industry. This includes animation and live-action feature films, plus television, DVDs, multi-media, merchandising and related ancillary markets. POW! has established partnerships across the entertainment industry, including studios and networks, for the creation, licensing and distribution of new POW! character franchises. For further information visit www.powentertainment.com .

About Cassandra Peterson
WHEN YOU HEAR THE NAME ELVIRA, ONLY ONE PERSON COMES TO MIND – Halloween icon and quintessential symbol of all things spooky, the one and only Mistress of the Dark.

Elvira was the first horror host ever to be syndicated throughout the US on national TV. She produced, wrote and starred in the feature films Elvira, Mistress of the Dark and Elvira’s Haunted Hills. Her most recent projects include the reality series Search for the Next Elvira, the 2010-2011 return of Movie Macabre and the new web series Elvira’s Horror Hunt.

Played by actress-writer Cassandra Peterson, she has spent over three decades solidifying the Elvira brand and has carved out a niche in popular American culture that is sure to endure for decades to come.

SOURCE Stan Lee's Comikaze Expo

Thursday, May 31, 2012

THE BLANK THEATRE PRESENTS 20 YEARS OF WINNERS

SCENES, SONGS, AND SPEECHES FROM 20 YEARS OF THE YOUNG PLAYWRIGHTS FESTIVAL


ONE NIGHT ONLY: SUNDAY, JUNE 3 AT 6PM


Benefitting The Blank Theatre, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit arts organization, honorary host Jennifer Garner will welcome (in alphabetical order) Ed Asner, Barbara Bain, Nicholas BrendonBrianna Brown, Gordon Clapp, Dale Dickey, Daisy Eagan, Thea Gill, Peri Gilpin, Gale Harold, Lenny Jacobson, Michael E. Knight, Tom Lenk, Scott Lowell, Allison Mack, Virginia Madsen, Angel Parker, Rex Smith, Jennifer Stone, DB Sweeney, Kirsten Vangsness, Gedde Watanabe, Virginia Williams, and Noah Wyle as they perform scenes, songs, and speeches from 20 years of The Blank’s Young Playwrights Festival. Artists subject to change. This one night only event will take place on Sunday, June 3, 2012 at 6pm, at Avalon Hollywood.

About The Blank Theatre
Started in 1990 by Founding Artistic Director Daniel Henning, The Blank Theatre is Hollywood’s regional theatre, consistently offering some of the most high quality and entertaining productions in the area. In its 21-year history, The Blank has won hundreds of awards including every major award in Los Angeles for Outstanding Production, such as the LA Drama Critics Circle, Ovation, LA Weekly, NAACP, and Back Stage Garland awards. The Blank has been at the forefront of providing high quality productions with a risk-taking sensibility and entertaining experiences. The Blank Theatre is committed to developing excellence in artistic talent, and providing the opportunity for artists to take bold risks. For more information, please visit www.TheBlank.com.

BENEFIT PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
DATE/TIME:   Sunday, June 3, at 6pm
ADMISSION:  $50 - $125. VIP packages available for $250-$350 (includes postperformance reception with the cast).
TICKETS:         Online at www.TheBlank.com or by calling (323) 661-9827.
LOCATION:     Avalon Hollywood, 1735 Vine Street, Hollywood, 90028.

SOURCE Ken Werther, PR