JOHN 5 to Kick Off NBA Season with Live Music Performance from Tyla Yaweh and Tommy Lee on ESPN House’s Virtual Fan Experience This Saturday

ESPN’s NBA Digital Pregame Show Hoop Streams Returns with Five Episodes as the NBA Season Resumes

Hoop Streams Presented by Google Featuring Host Cassidy Hubbarth with NBA Champion Kendrick Perkins and Amin Elhassan Tips Off Friday Leading into ESPN’s First NBA Seeding Game

To celebrate the restart of the NBA season, ESPN House returns with a virtual fan experience for the tip-off of the NBA on ESPN. The experience will be anchored by a live musical performance from rapper and songwriter Tyla Yaweh with special guests Tommy Lee and John 5. The performance will be streamed on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and the ESPN app on Saturday, August 1 at 5:10 p.m. ET prior to Hoop Streams. ESPN House will also feature content from The Undefeated on ESPN.com surrounding social justice efforts. 

“I have a long time friendship with Tommy Lee and we have worked on some really great music together,” JOHN 5 says. “I really love how the remix turned out and loved working with new friends Tyla and Post Malone. I love this song and I’m proud to be a part of this.” 

Tyla Yaweh – the Orlando-raised, LA-based genre-bending star – launched his career with 2019’s critically acclaimed project Heart Full of Rage, which boasted equal parts trap, hip hop and rock. Along the way, the project, which included the break-out song “High Right Now,” and subsequent singles like “I Think I Luv Her” ft. YG and “Understand Me,” helped him amass over 351 million streams, He has collaborated with names like Wiz Khalifa, French Montana, Ski Mask The Slump God, Juice WRLD and PnB Rock. Tyla also joined Post Malone, Swae Lee and Jaden Smith on the 2019-2020 Runaway Tour across multiple continents and made rousing appearances at festivals such as Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo, Governors Ball, Firefly, Life Is Beautiful, Rolling Loud, Reading and Leeds and more. 

Aptly titled RAGER BØY, his upcoming debut studio album encapsulates the world in which Tyla Yaweh resides. With “Tommy Lee” as the lead single, the stage is set for star-studded features (including Post Malone on “Tommy Lee,” Tommy Lee himself on a remix, and DaBaby on the newly-released anthem “Stuntin’ On You”), new vibes and uncharted territory, musically. Tommy Lee’s new album, ANDRO, will be released on October 16, 2020. 

Hoop Streams, ESPN’s digital NBA pregame show, returns for five episodes between Friday, July 31 and Monday, August 3 – as the NBA season resumes. Cassidy Hubbarth will host Hoop Streams presented by Google on July 31 from 6-6:30 p.m. ET at ESPN’s Bristol, Conn. studios, with analyst and NBA Champion Kendrick Perkins and fellow analyst Amin Elhassan appearing remotely. Hoop Streams presented by Google will lead into ESPN’s first NBA Seeding Game telecast as the Boston Celtics take on the Milwaukee Bucks at 6:30 p.m. ET. All editions of Hoop Streams are available on ESPN’s Twitter and YouTube platforms and via the ESPN App. 

The trio of Hubbarth, Perkins and Elhassan will return for Hoop Streams pregame shows on Saturday, August 1, at 8 p.m. ET and again on Monday, August 3, at 8:30 p.m. ET. Each edition of Hoop Streams will include special guest appearances, commentary on topical NBA news items, and a preview of the upcoming games on ESPN platforms. 

In addition, the Hoop Streams team of Christine Williamson, Omar Raja and Gary Striewski will lead shows on Saturday, August 1, at 5:30 p.m. ET and on Monday, August 3, at 6 p.m. ET. Raja will participate from the NBA Florida Campus and the Walt Disney World Resort, while Williamson and Striewski will be located at ESPN’s Bristol Conn. studios. These shows will feature on-site updates from Raja and viral video content. For ESPN and ABC’s NBA Restart schedule, visit ESPN Press Room. 

Hoop Streams schedule July 31-August 3
Date
Fri, July 31

Sat, Aug. 1

Sat, Aug. 1

Mon, Aug. 3

Mon, Aug. 3		Time (ET)6-6:30 p.m.

5:30-6 p.m.

8-8:30 p.m.

6-6:30 p.m.

8:30-9 p.m.		CommentatorsCassidy Hubbarth, Kendrick Perkins, Amin Elhassan
Christine Williamson, Omar Raja, Gary Striewski
Cassidy Hubbarth, Kendrick Perkins, Amin Elhassan
Christine Williamson, Omar Raja, Gary Striewski
Cassidy Hubbarth, Kendrick Perkins, Amin Elhassan

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Filed Under: Music, Music Headlines Tagged With: 5, espn, experience, fan, houses, john, ...

United States of Smash into a Brand-new Quirky Experience as Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc. Brings My Hero One’s Justice® 2 to the Playstation®4, Xbox One, Switch, and PC


Get ready for a bigger, badder and 1,000,000% more quirkier experience! 

SANTA CLARA, Calif., (Oct. 3, 2019) – Leading developer and publisher of anime video games, BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment America Inc. today announced that MY HERO ONE’S JUSTICE® 2 will be coming to the Americas for the PlayStation®4 computer entertainment system, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch™, and PC via STEAM®. MY HERO ONE’S JUSTICE 2 is an anime-action fighting game based off the popular Shonen Jump series and is the second video game developed under the MY HERO ONE’S JUSTICE title. 

In MY HERO ONE’S JUSTICE 2, the original cast members from MY HERO ONE’S JUSTICE will be joined by a new cast of characters, such as Yakuza captain Kai Chisaki, U.A. High School third-year students Mirio Togata, Tamaki Amajiki, and Nejire Hado of “The Big 3”, and Class 1-A’s Mina Ashido and Minoru Mineta. New stages and stories from the anime series will also be included in MY HERO ONE’S JUSTICE 2 along with improved gameplay, giving players a more robust MY HERO ONE’S JUSTICE experience. 

“MY HERO ONE’S JUSTICE 2 allows fans to live the anime and experience iconic anime moments through battle as their favorite characters” said Randy Le, Brand Manager at BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment America Inc. “Fans will love MY HERO ONE’S JUSTICE 2 as it takes the dynamic action and intense battles of MY HERO ONE’S JUSTICE to a brand-new level!”

For more information about MY HERO ONE’S JUSTICE 2 or other titles from BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment America Inc., please visit; https://www.bandainamcoent.com, follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/BandaiNamcoUS, or join the conversation on Twitter at https://www.twitter.com/BandaiNamcoUS

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About BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment America Inc.

BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment America Inc., part of BANDAI NAMCO Holdings Inc., is a leading global publisher and developer of interactive entertainment for all major video game consoles, iOS, Android, and online platforms. The company is known for creating and publishing many of the industry’s top video game franchises including PAC-MAN®, GALAGA®, TEKKEN®, SOULCALIBUR®, and ACE COMBAT®. BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment America Inc. is the premier publisher in the Western hemisphere for anime based video games including NARUTO SHIPPUDEN™, DRAGON BALL Z®, and ONE PIECE®. More information about the company and its products can be found at http://www.bandainamcoent.com or www.facebook.com/BandaiNamcoUS.

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Buy Concert Tickets Online & Live The Experience Today

We all need to take a break sometimes. It always seems like we’re all so busy trying to keep up with this roller coaster we call life that we tend to forget what it really means to “live.” Rushing to meet deadline after deadline is not how you dreamt to live out your life when you were younger, is it? Surely, you’ve never thought of wasting all your precious youth overly obsessing about things like finding a partner, settling down, building an empire, etc.

Goals are great to have. Being dedicated to one’s career is a really good thing. However, you also have to recognize the fact that life exists beyond that. At the end of the day, it’s not those busy days you are going to remember. Amidst the hustle and bustle, what you will remember most are the times you decided to just calm down and take a break. It is during moments that you are still that you are allowed to really take in all the things that are happening around you. This is why it is important that you just let yourself go sometimes. It is not a crime to rest your worn-out soul. Read more about this here.

And what better way to loosen up and recharge your spirit than surround yourself with positive energy and good music? Say, going to see your favorite artist live, for example.

When Was The Last Time You’ve Ever Been To A Concert?

Wait, let me actually rephrase that question: When was the last time you ever allowed yourself to do something that is just purely enjoyable? Was it last week, maybe last month? If you can’t even remember when it was and the memory of ever having such a time seems so distant, then you’re truly depriving yourself of a chance to recharge and just live in the moment.

We all deserve to live in the moment.

The best way to really experience the energy of something real in the exact moment is to witness someone perform on a live stage. When you’re there just surrounded by the insane hype of the people around you, hearing music so passionately delivered, and just standing in awe at the grand performance that’s unfolding before you, it is in that moment that you know you’re alive. It is in that moment that you get to understand what it means to live in the present. That’s just the kind of energy a live performance will give you. Here’s a list of performances you shouldn’t miss out on: https://www.insider.com/best-musicians-to-see-live-2018-3. 

Ever since the television and internet came, less and less people are showing interest to concerts and live performances. True enough, just streaming the performance will help you save costs, time, and effort of going to the actual venue. However, I wouldn’t say that the experience is the same. As I said, what’s lacking is the energy. The realness of the moment, the heat, wouldn’t be there when you’re just watching off a screen. It would feel bland and empty. But if you get out there and immerse yourself with the people’s energy, you’ll realize just how much you’re missing out on life. You’ll realize how important it is to let yourself go every once in a while.

Let’s all bring back the vigor that was once showered upon live concerts. Let’s all bring back the fun in our lives.

How To Keep Yourself Updated With The Live Performances Happening Around You

Although I did kind of imply that technology has made people more passive and disinterested about a lot of things, but it definitely has made life more convenient. I guess this is where the saying “there are two sides to every coin” comes in. The internet may indirectly encourage the youth of today to be passive observers but it’s also a tool that can help you live life even better if you use it for the right things. For example, if you’re planning to go see a live concert soon, you can always just check out online schedules for it.

That’s right. Nowadays, attending a live concert doesn’t require you to line up from 3 in the morning just to get the tickets (although that used to be fun too). You can conveniently and comfortably book for them through a mobile phone or computer. You can pay for them right then and there too.

So if you’re thinking of taking the missus out for the weekend or ask the boyfriend to join you for a rock performance in the summer, you can always just check out online ticketing websites for the latest news and updates on upcoming performances in your area. It’s really that easy now so it’s about time you stop making excuses for yourself and just start throwing yourself out there.

There are many ticketing websites that you can check out, but you have to make sure that you’re buying only from legit ones before you start paying real money. Online reviews can help you determine which websites are safe to use for this purpose and which ones are not. Most ticketing websites are real-time so you will be able to receive your virtual or digital ticket soon after you purchased it. If you don’t receive it even after 24 hours had passed, then there is definitely something wrong going on. Seriously, with our technology today, you’d be more surprised about “what can’t be achieved” more than what can be achieved. Check out one of the best concert ticket sites here.

Again, don’t wait for life to pass you by. Whenever you can, make an effort to really live moments with people you love. Enjoy yourself; unbound yourself from things that worry and concern you and just join the world as you all yell out your hearts’ desires to great music. Sometimes, simply allowing yourself to “go with the crowd” is the best therapy you can ever get. It doesn’t cost much too. These are the times you will remember the most, you’ll see.

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Filed Under: Commentary Tagged With: buy, concert, experience, live, online, tickets, ...

Tickets Now On Sale for Jurassic World Live Tour–an Unparalleled and Thrilling Live Arena Experience Jurassic World Comes to Orlando’s Amway Center January 17-20, 2020.

Did the holiday season sneak up on you? Here’s an idea: give the gift of a dino-mite holiday experience! After all, experiences make the perfect gift because memories last a lifetime. And all dinosaur fans will enjoy seeing Jurassic World come to life in a live-action touring arena show. Return to Isla Nublar and save Jeanie, an all-new dinosaur, alongside Blue, the mighty T. rex and more when Jurassic World Live Tour roars into the Amway Center. The show for kids of all ages plays in Orlando January 17-20, 2020.

Tickets are now on sale for Jurassic World Live Tour, an exhilarating and unpredictable live, family entertainment experience that will bring the wonder and thrills of Jurassic World to generations of fans in the Orlando area. With unrivaled arena production quality, Jurassic World comes to life against a backdrop of captivating scenery where dinosaurs from the iconic franchise, including fan-favorite Velociraptor Blue and a Tyrannosaurus Rex more than 40 feet in length,take center stage. The production features more than 24 film-accurate, life-sized dinosaurs,each custom built with the latest technology, scientific precision and Hollywood studio quality. With scale, speed and ferocity, the animatronic and performer-operated dinosaurs deliver colossal,edge-of-your-seat, live entertainment unlike any other dinosaur experience.

Jurassic World’s unmistakable score adds to the larger-than-life, immersive journey that will captivate fans of all ages. Through a combination of projection and practical scenery, the arena will transform into the dense jungles of Isla Nublar, where real Gyrospheres roll through the valley and scientists work to unravel a corrupt plan and save an all-new dinosaur from a terrible fate. With pulse-pounding stunts and an original, authenticstory line,this show is guaranteed to make memories that will last another 65 million years.

About Jurassic World:

From Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment, Jurassic World immerses audiences of all ages in a new era of wonder and thrills where dinosaurs and humankind must learn to coexist.Jurassic World is more than a film franchise. At every turn, this $5 billion film series delivers a larger-than-life destination for exploration, discovery, and epic adventure. Dinosaurs live again and they live in Jurassic World.

About Feld Entertainment:

Feld Entertainment®is the worldwide leader in producing and presenting live family entertainment experiences that bring people together and uplift the human spirit. Properties include Monster Jam®, Monster Energy Supercross, Disney On Ice, Disney Live!, Marvel Universe LIVE!, Sesame Street Live!, DreamWorks Trolls The Experience and Jurassic World Live Tour.Across the brand portfolio, Feld Entertainment has entertained millions of families in more than 75 countries and on six continents. Visit www.feldentertainment.com for more information.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/JurassicWorldLiveTour/

Twitter: @JWlivetour

Instagram: @jurassicworldlivetour #JurassicWorldLive

Check out our exclusive special discount: Save up to 20% off select seats with code ORJW20. Not valid on premium VIP seating. While supplies last. Hurry for the best available seats! Code expires January 16, 2020.

I am a Feld Entertainment Blogger Ambassador, and in exchange for my time and efforts in attending shows and reporting my opinion within this blog, as well as keeping you advised of the latest discount offers, Feld Entertainment has provided me with complimentary tickets to Feld shows and other exclusive opportunities.

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Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: 1720, 2020, amway, arena, center, experience, ...

5 Unique Experience Gifts

Tired of giving the same old gifts over and over again? While material items make special gifts, a unique experience gift can help create memories that last a lifetime. Baseball games, travel vouchers, plane tickets, and much more can help take your gifts to the next level and leave an impression that will always be fondly remembered. Here are five unique experience gifts for the next time you want something a little different.

1. Award Show Tickets

Have you ever attended the VMAs or Emmy’s? These exciting events can create memories you’ll never forget, as every event is different. When it comes to actors and artists, you can always expect the unexpected!

Gifting award show tickets can be a step-up from your usual gifts. Maybe dad doesn’t need another tie for his birthday, or mom has so many coffee mugs she’s running out of cupboard space. Your best friend probably doesn’t need another handbag either, but a pair of tickets to the VMAs can be just the thing to shake it up a bit and show your giftee just how much you care.

2. Major Sporting Event Tickets

For the sports fan in your circle, memorabilia and merchandise can only go so far. If you’ve maxed out their jersey collection and there’s no more room in the display case for bobbleheads, purchasing them an actual ticket to the event they’re so fond of can really light up their day.

Many sporting venues and associations offer discounts on season passes or family packages, so you can even include the whole family if you so choose. These make the perfect birthday, father’s day, or simply “I love you” gifts for your dad, brother, sister, uncle, or best friend who love sports.

You can also sign up your giftee for the loyalty program that many stadiums/associations offer, so they can earn points or other rewards for purchasing merchandise and tickets for their favorite teams. The gift that keeps on giving!

3. Glamping

Glamping is just camping without all of the barebones survival aspects thrown into it. With glamping, you’ll be sleeping in a comfortable tent or cabin, complete with all of the amenities you would have in your home (except with significantly better scenery).

Glamping near Yellowstone is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, as Yellowstone has some of the most breathtaking experiences and landscapes of any of the nation’s national parks. Experience the beauty and majesty of the national parks from a luxury tent complete with a bed and comfortable pillows!

4. Cruise Tickets

What’s better than a cruise? A cruise that was gifted, of course! Cruises make for amazing experiences; you get to travel the high seas on a luxury ship while enjoying fun in the sun in tropical places.  

There are literally thousands of cruise packages available online, each with their own specific itineraries and inclusions. Some packages will include airfare and alcohol, while others will only include the cost of the cruise itself. It’s important to always price check with other cruise lines to ensure you’re getting a great deal, as prices and packages can change daily.

Many cruise packages are quite affordable, ranging from just above $1,000 to well above $5,000. It all depends on how long the cruise is, which room you choose on the ship, and departure dates.

5. Racing a Luxury Sports Car

If you’ve got a friend or a loved one who loves cars, this is the ultimate gift experience for them. Flying down the racetrack in a Lamborghini or Ferrari is a truly unique experience, and sure to satisfy the car lover in your circle.

There are many tracks that provide such experiences, from The Las Vegas Motor Speedway to Homestead Miami Speedway in Florida. The packages will vary in cost, but we found some that fell in at around $400 for three laps. You can always choose more laps as well, but the price goes up from there.

Racing some of the fastest cars in the world is sure to be an experience your friend or loved one will thank you for over and over again. After all, who hasn’t wanted to suit up and hit 200mph on an open road in a Ferrari?

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Filed Under: Commentary Tagged With: 5, experience, gifts, unique

GAME OF THRONES® LIVE CONCERT EXPERIENCE TO RETURN FOR FALL 2019 NORTH AMERICAN AMPHITHEATER TOUR

Experience the Excitement, Terror, Heartbreak, and History of Emmy® Award-Winning Game of Thrones Composer Ramin Djawadi’s Music In A Stunning Outdoor Concert Experience

The 20-City Tour Will Travel Throughout North America, Including Dates In Chicago, Boston, Philadelphia, New York City, Los Angeles and many more

Tickets On Sale Monday, May 13, 2019 At 10AM Local Time

The critically acclaimed Game of Thrones Live Concert Experience will return this fall for a 20-city amphitheater tour, bringing the music of Emmy® Award-winning Game of Thrones composer Ramin Djawadi to stunning new life at outdoor theatres across North America. As we say goodbye to one of the biggest shows and scores in television history, relive the greatest musical pieces and footage from all eight seasons in an immersive outdoor concert experience. Tickets for the tour will be available HERE starting Monday, May 13, 2019, at 10:00am local time and a full list of dates can be found below.

Featuring special appearances by Ramin himself at Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater in New York City, FivePoint Amphitheatre in Irvine, CA and Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, CA, the tour will stop at notable outdoor venues across North America. Having first conceptualized the tour several years ago, Ramin will be reworking and redeveloping the musical and visual elements of the concert to create a brand new live experience that encompasses fan-favorite pieces from the entirety of Game of Thrones. The tour will include new musical arrangements from the series’ 8th and final season such as the “The Night King” theme, Ramin’s epic 9-minute composition that went viral immediately after debuting on the show. Within days, the track garnered millions of streams across the internet, reached the top 4 most downloaded songs on iTunes and the top 18 most watched videos on YouTube, and dropped the jaws of audiences and critics alike:

“When Game of Thrones Plays Sad Piano Music, It’s Time to Freak Out.” – Vulture

“In a series known for truly cinematic music, this was still a series highlight…Djawadi’s finest on the show.” – Nerdist

“[Ramin] really outdid himself here with the soaring, searching score that gave the episode its own unique flavor while also selling its most emotional beats. It’s a true symphony at times.” – Indiewire

The inaugural run of the Game of Thrones Live Concert Experience Featuring Ramin Djawadi kicked off in North America in February of 2017 and was praised by audiences and critics alike as a must-see spectacle for fans of the television series. Following the success of the tour, Ramin embarked on a European run during the spring of 2018 before returning back for a second North American tour in the fall of 2018. To date, the show has amassed a total of 75 arena concerts across the globe. The Guardian described the show as “Westeros brought to dazzling life.” Mashable called it “an epic musical journey,” while the New York Times praised it as “a symphonic spectacular.”

The tour, produced and promoted exclusively by Live Nation in partnership with HBO Licensing & Retail, will continue to use innovative music tour production and video technology that will recreate the various realms found throughout Westeros and Essos as well as showcase footage from the series in addition to new imagery created exclusively for the concert.

Ramin has won one Emmy Award® and been nominated for six Emmy® Awards and two GRAMMY® Awards. Versatility has defined his career, from celebrated television scores for Game of Thrones, Westworld, Jack Ryan, and Prison Break to feature films such as A Wrinkle in Time, Mountain Between Us, Slender Man, The Great Wall, Pacific Rim, Iron Man and Clash of the Titans. Ramin has even composed scores for blockbuster video games including Medal of Honor, Gears of War 4 and the upcoming Gears of War 5.

GAME OF THRONES® LIVE CONCERT EXPERIENCE 2019 NORTH AMERICAN DATES

9/5 – Syracuse, NY – St. Joseph’s Health Amphitheater at Lakeview

9/6 – Toronto, ON – Budweiser Stage

9/8 – Chicago, IL – Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre

9/10 – Boston, MA – Xfinity Center

9/11 – Hartford, CT – XFINITY Theatre

9/12 – Philadelphia, PA – The Mann

9/14 – New York, NY – Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater

9/15 – Washington, DC – Jiffy Lube Live

9/17 – Virginia Beach, VA – Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater

9/18 – Raleigh, NC – Coastal Credit Union Music Park

9/20 – Jacksonville, FL – Daily’s Place

9/21 – West Palm Beach, FL – Coral Sky Amphitheatre

9/22 – Tampa, FL – MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre

9/25 – Rogers, AR – Walmart AMP

9/26 – Dallas, TX – The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory

9/27 – Houston, TX – Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

10/1 – Phoenix, AZ – Comerica Theatre

10/3 – San Francisco, CA – Shoreline Amphitheatre

10/4 – Irvine, CA – FivePoint Amphitheatre

10/5 – Los Angeles, CA – Hollywood Bowl

 

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Filed Under: Music, Music Headlines, TV, TV Headlines Tagged With: 2019, american, amphitheater, concert, experience, fall, ...

Universal Classic Monsters: Complete 30-Film Collection First Time Ever on Blu-ray!

FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER, A LANDMARK COLLECTION SHOWCASING THE LEGENDARY MONSTERS IN MOTION PICTURE HISTORY

UNIVERSAL CLASSIC MONSTERS: COMPLETE 30-FILM COLLECTION AVAILABLE ON BLU-RAY™ ON AUGUST 28, 2018 FROM UNIVERSAL PICTURES HOME ENTERTAINMENT

Universal City, California, August 22, 2018 – Thirty of the most iconic cinematic masterpieces starring the most famous monsters of horror movie history come together on Blu-ray™ for the first time ever in the Universal Classic Monsters: Complete 30-Film Collection on August 28, 2018, from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. Featuring unforgettable make-up, ground-breaking special effects and outstanding performances, the Universal Classic Monsters: Complete 30-Film Collection includes all Universal Pictures’ legendary monsters from the studio that pioneered the horror genre with imaginative and technically groundbreaking tales of terror in unforgettable films from the 1930s to late-1950s.

From the era of silent movies through present day, Universal Pictures has been regarded as the home of the monsters. The Universal Classic Monsters: Complete 30-Film Collection showcases all the original films featuring the most iconic monsters in motion picture history including Dracula, Frankenstein, The Mummy, The Invisible Man, The Bride of Frankenstein, The Wolf Man, Phantom of the Opera and Creature from the Black Lagoon. Starring some of the most legendary actors including Bela Lugosi, Boris Karloff, Lon Chaney Jr., Claude Rains and Elsa Lanchester in the roles that they made famous, these films set the standard for a new horror genre and showcase why these landmark movies that defined the horror genre are regarded as some of the most unforgettable ever to be filmed.

Universal Classic Monsters: Complete 30-Film Collection includes a 48-page collectible book filled with behind-the-scenes stories and rare production photographs and is accompanied by an array of bonus features including behind-the-scenes documentaries, the 1931 Spanish version of Dracula, Featurettes on Bela Lugosi, Boris Karloff, Lon Chaney Jr., and Jack Pierce, 13 expert feature commentaries, archival footage, production photographs, theatrical trailers and more. The perfect gift for any scary movie fan, the collection offers an opportunity to experience some of the most memorable horror films of our time.

The Universal Classic Monsters: Complete 30-Film Collection includes Dracula(1931), Frankenstein (1931), The Mummy (1932), The Invisible Man (1933), The Bride of Frankenstein (1935), Werewolf of London (1935), Dracula’s Daughter (1936), Son of Frankenstein (1939), The Invisible Man Returns (1940), The Invisible Woman (1940), The Mummy’s Hand (1940), The Wolf Man (1941), The Ghost of Frankenstein (1942), The Mummy’s Ghost (1942), The Mummy’s Tomb (1942),Invisible Agent (1942), Phantom of the Opera (1943), Frankenstein Meets the Wolf Man (1943), Son of Dracula (1943), House of Frankenstein (1944), The Mummy’s Curse (1944), The Invisible Man’s Revenge (1944), House of Dracula (1945), She-Wolf of London (1946), Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein (1948), Abbott and Costello Meet the Invisible Man (1951), Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954, and includes a 3D version), Abbott and Costello Meet the Mummy (1955), Revenge of the Creature (1955 and includes a 3D version) and The Creature Walks Among Us (1956).

 

BONUS FEATURES:

  • Behind-the-Scenes Documentaries
  • 3D Versions of Creature from the Black Lagoon and Revenge of the Creature
  • 1931 Spanish Version of Dracula
  • Featurettes on Bela Lugosi, Boris Karloff, Lon Chaney Jr., and Jack Pierce
  • 13 Expert Feature Commentaries
  • Archival Footage
  • Production Photographs
  • Theatrical Trailers

 

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Filed Under: Film Headlines Tagged With: 13, 1930s, 1931, 1932, 1933, 1935, ...

4DX Experience & Film Review “Ready Player One”

Directed by: Steven Spielberg
Starring: Tye Sheridan, Olivia Cooke, Ben Mendelsohn, T.J. Miller, Simon Pegg, Mark Rylance
Distributed by: Warner Bros. Pictures
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Running time: 140 minutes

Film: 4.5 out of 5 stars
4DX Experience: 3.5 out of 5 stars
3D: 4 out of 5 stars

“Ready Player One” is easily my most anticipated film of the year. There was a lot riding on this film for me and a lot of anticipation. This is one of the first times that I have read the book before seeing the movie. I never read one of the “Harry Potter” or “The Lord of the Rings” books to date. Ernest Cline’s “Ready Player One” is one of the best books that I have read (not only once but multiple times). The audio book read by “Star Trek: The Next Generation” star Wil Wheaton is highly recommended. That being said, the movie is MEGA different from the book. I am honestly cool with it because I see how and why most changes were made and I am really happy with the film adaptation. In fact, I would say that is my favorite film that I have seen this year…and I say this because as of writing I have already seen the film twice, once in 2D and once in 3D with 4DX experience, which are two very different ways to experience this film. This is a film that gets better with each follow up viewing and I can’t wait to see it again!

I am just so excited and I can’t hold it in anymore, so let’s just start with how much pop culture is filled in this film. BEWARE, this paragraph ONLY has a few Easter Egg SPOILERS, but then again a few are from the trailers. There are nearly 100 Easter Eggs already that already have been found in this film. Some are super hidden and blink and you miss and some are just in your face awesome like visiting The Overlook Hotel from “The Shining” and getting to relive a few scenes with newly created CG footage. This shit was downright terrifying. “The Shining” is easily my favorite horror film of all time and this really left me saying “WOW!” A few of the brief ones that I literally almost lunged out of my chair were Battletoads, Spawn, the RV from “Spaceballs”, Jason Voorhees, the new live-action Ninja turtles, the ship from “Firefly”, Serenity and reference to “Pilotwings”. I really enjoyed the ability to watch the film and just stare in amazement as to how many amazing cameos their were. I felt the same way about “Wreck-it Ralph” when I first saw it and still to today. I am always looking for something new and I have a feeling I will be doing the same with “Ready Player One”,

Here is the film’s official premise: From filmmaker Steven Spielberg comes the action adventure “Ready Player One,” based on Ernest Cline’s bestseller of the same name, which has become a worldwide phenomenon.   In the year 2045, the real world is a harsh place.  The only time Wade Watts (Tye Sheridan) truly feels alive is when he escapes to the OASIS, an immersive virtual universe where most of humanity spends their days.  In the OASIS, you can go anywhere, do anything, be anyone—the only limits are your own imagination.  The OASIS was created by the brilliant and eccentric James Halliday (Mark Rylance), who left his immense fortune and total control of the Oasis to the winner of a three-part contest he designed to find a worthy heir.  When Wade conquers the first challenge of the reality-bending treasure hunt, he and his friends—called the High Five—are hurled into a fantastical universe of discovery and danger to save the OASIS.

Ok, so let’s talk about the different ways, I have experienced this film. First I saw it in 2D on a decent size screen. Let’s end this quick, this is NOT the way to see this movie. This needs to be experienced in IMAX or on the biggest screen possible. Second time, I saw this film it was in 4DX, which is the ultimate movie going experience with motion seats, environmental & water effects. I went with a friend who has never been to 4DX and he said that this was the perfect way to experience this film. I enjoyed the 4DX experience for “Ready Player One” but I didn’t love it. I felt like it was absolutely perfect for a few scenes like the race to the first key, which was like being in a long-ass rollercoaster ride. I enjoyed the 4DX experience for “Pacific Rim: Uprising” much more it just felt like it was always moving. With “Ready Player One” it was more every once in a while I remembered I was in a 4DX experience and I enjoyed it, don’t get me wrong. The 3D definitely added to the experience. When they dived into the Oasis, the 3D depth really kicked in and blew me away.

The cast I have to admit was an odd to me, since I am not that aware of the young stars Tye Sheridan and Olivia Cooke. I enjoyed their avatar characters and the motion capture used to achieve their performances. I also dug Ben Mendelsohn as the baddie. T.J. Miller appeared as avatar only, no real life character (probably due to harassment issues) but he was useless in the movie. Simon Pegg popped up for a minute here and there but definitely delivered the film’s heart as did Mark Rylance, who just blew it out of the park. I hated that he beat Slyvester Stallone (nominated for “Creed”) for Best Supporting Actor in 2015 for his role in “Bridge of Spies” and then even more after “The BFG” but he was simply amazing as James Halliday! Spielberg was smart for bringing he onto this film. He made me smile every time he spoke.

Let’s get on the topic of the director, Steven Spielberg. I originally thought that this film was not right for him as a director. But after seeing the film twice now, I know it was not ruined and he did a real solid job at trying to deliver the most exciting and satisfying adaption he could for the fans. He even threw in nodes to his own films like “Jurassic Park”. He really captured that nostalgic feeling for me. As we are watching the action unfold in “Ready Player One”, the score switches to cues from “Back to the Future” and you get chills up and down following by the audience screaming “Whoa!!!” That is a great feeling in a movie theater and that is how you know when you have a winner on your hands.

I know I haven’t gone into too much detail about how this is different from the book, cause honestly I really don’t care. The movie is different and I still liked it a lot. I also love the book, which is extremely detailed and dives more deep into the pop culture world. I personally learned so much from the book about tons of film, music and TV references. The film is a slimmed down working of the book. The process finding the keys and the opening of the gates are the biggest change that I recall. I know there are a few other major events that doesn’t carry through in the movie but I appreciate how they molded the world in the book into a fun and exciting popcorn flick!  Like I said, I have a feeling that I am not going to stop at two viewings of this film. It’s very likely I will be seeing this at least once more in the theaters, definitely IMAX 3D and seeking out some more Easter Eggs!

 

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Filed Under: Film Reviews Tagged With: 4dx, easter, eggs, experience, film, player, ...

4DX Experience Review “Pacific Rim: Uprising”

Directed by: Steven S. DeKnight
Starring: John Boyega, Scott Eastwood, Jing Tian, Cailee Spaeny, Rinko Kikuchi, Burn Gorman, Adria Arjona, Zhang Jin and Charlie Day
Distributed by: Universal Pictures
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Running time: 111 minutes

4DX: 4 out of 5 stars
Film: 3 out of 5 stars

Since I was a kid, I have always been a fan of the Kaiju films like “Godzilla”, “Ultraman” and even “Power Rangers”. I loved the first “Pacific Rim”, especially in 3D. The action sequences are outstanding, especially in the water. Unfortunately, my excitement for the sequel has been next to nothing. I blame it on the studio because I am not the only one either. My friend told me because I posted about seeing it, it was the first time he even knew it was coming out (and he LOVED the first film). I see that as a missed opportunity for this film. I called this one a bomb before even seeing it based on how it was being marketed and I wasn’t wrong. Listen, I want to see more films like this in theaters, so I definitely say support it otherwise films “Godzilla” and “King Kong” won’t get made but I would have just liked a little more effort in this film and less trying to setup a new “Cinematic Universe” to make a new franchise.

I was excited to find out that “Pacific Rim: Uprising” was playing in the 4DX experience in one of its ten theaters across the country in Orlando FL. This made the movie feel like a two hour rollercoaster ride. I didn’t love the movie but with the 4DX experience I like it more overall. The fog is my only complaint since it was just one machine in the front of the theater and didn’t add anything. The motion chairs were moving non-stop and I was exhausted by the end of the movie for sure! If you get a chance to see this film and have a way to see it in 4DX I would definitely recommend that experience for sure.

Here is the long winded official premise: John Boyega stars as the rebellious Jake Pentecost, a once-promising Jaeger pilot whose legendary father gave his life to secure humanity’s victory against the monstrous “Kaiju.” Jake has since abandoned his training only to become caught up in a criminal underworld. But when an even more unstoppable threat is unleashed to tear through our cities and bring the world to its knees, he is given one last chance to live up to his father’s legacy by his estranged sister, Mako Mori (Rinko Kikuchi)-who is leading a brave new generation of pilots that have grown up in the shadow of war. As they seek justice for the fallen, their only hope is to unite together in a global uprising against the forces of extinction. Jake is joined by gifted rival pilot Lambert (Scott Eastwood) and 15-year-old Jaeger hacker Amara (Cailee Spaeny), as the heroes of the PPDC become the only family he has left. Rising up to become the most powerful defense force to ever walk the earth, they will set course for a spectacular all-new adventure on a towering scale.

John Boyega gets a chance to shine outside of the “Star Wars” gang but ends up getting lost in the confusion and doesn’t really have a strong arc and no love interest, which I felt he needed. I do not understand why people like Scott Eastwood. I think he is a terrible actor and I roll my eyes every time he is on the screen trying to be tough. there are three returning talent from the first film including Rinko Kikuchi (for 10 seconds), Burn Gorman and Charlie Day. I really dug having Burn and Charlie day back! They made the film more enjoyable to watch. I didn’t like how the rest of the cast was made up with teenagers, it felt like I was watching a Nickelodeon

“Pacific Rim: Uprising” was definitely a different kind of movie from the first. The first kicked off in an epic battle and then filled you in as time went on and I dug that. The sequel starts explaining way too much in the beginning and takes a while to get going. The sequel doesn’t have the heart or the visuals to match the first film but ends up being a fun popcorn flick. Just keep your expectations low and don’t expect it to be like the first film. If their is more films, I want more Charlie Day for sure! Luckily for the 4FX experience which really enhanced my experience watching this film, I ended up leaving the theater excited for more to come. I can’t help it I am sucker for giant monsters and robots!!

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4DX Theater Experience Review “Transformers: The Last Knight”

Directed by: Michael Bay
Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Josh Duhamel, Stanley Tucci, Anthony Hopkins
Distributed by: Paramount Pictures
Release date
Running time: 149 minutes

4DX Score: 4 out of 5 stars
Film Score: 3 out of 5 stars

Recently, I have been contacted to see if I wanted to review one of this Summer’s movies the brand new 4DX Theater Experience. This is not your typical movie going experience. Here is an example of the effects that you can expect going into a 4DX screening: water, air, bubbles, fog, scents, motion seats with vibration and ticklers as well as environmental effects like rain, storming, snow, wind and lightning. This seemed like the ONLY way to see a film like “Transformers”. Currently, I believe there are only a handful of these theaters across the United States, one of them luckily being in Orlando FL at the Regal Pointe Orlando Stadium. If you are in the area or are lucky enough to have one local to you, I would highly recommend checking out this experience at least once.

“Transformers: The Last Knight” is the fifth installment in the Hasbro toy inspired franchise. Honestly, each film sort of blends together. The plots in the past films have been convoluted and confused and this film is no different. Is it entertaining…YES! Will I remember it and be able to distinguish between it and the previous four films….NOPE! Just pure popcorn Summer fun. If you dig explosions and robots, then it worth checking out then for a mindless two and half hours. But let me tell you one thing, seeing this film in 4DX definitely made it a better experience for sure and if you are thinking about seeing a 4DX film, “Transformers” is a great example to test it out with.

If you have ever visited Disney World parks and went on the attractions “Honey I Shrunk the Audience”, “Captain EO” or “Mickey’s PhilharMagic”, this 4DX Theater Experience reminded me of all of those combined together and more. I have to admit though, by the end of the two and a half hour movie of “Transformers”, I was exhausted. This is definitely not for those people that just want to kick their feet up and escape into a movie. This is a workout. You are almost constantly moving the whole time, some times subtle movement and sometimes huge motion jumps, twists and turns…I definitely saw a popcorn bag get tossed during my screening. Personally, I wouldn’t want to see every new film that comes out like this but I can definitely see it being an event to do every once in a while right the right film comes out. If you are curious though about this do not wait, definitely check it out because it is definitely an experience.

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Tickets on Sale Now for “Hardcore Henry: The Ultimate Fan Experience” in Select U.S. Cinemas

Hardcore Henry is one of the most unflinchingly original wild-rides to hit the big screen in a long time: You remember nothing. Mainly because you’ve just been brought back from the dead by your wife (Haley Bennett). She tells you that your name is Henry. Five minutes later, you are being shot at, your wife has been kidnapped and you should probably go get her back. Who’s got her? His name’s Akan (Danila Kozlovsky); he’s a powerful warlord with an army of mercenaries, and a plan for world domination. You’re also in an unfamiliar city of Moscow, and everyone wants you dead. Everyone except for a mysterious British fellow called Jimmy (Sharlto Copley). He may be on your side, but you aren’t sure. If you can survive the insanity, and solve the mystery, you might just discover your purpose and the truth behind your identity. Good luck, Henry. You’re likely going to need it…

Date: Thursday, April 7
Time: 7:00 p.m. (local time)
Run Time: 2 hours (approximate)

Ticketing: Tickets are available by clicking on the orange “Buy Tickets” button. If online ticketing is not available for your location, you can purchase your tickets by visiting the box office at your local participating movie theater.

Special Fathom Features: Experience an exclusive Q&A with the director and everyone who attends the event will receive a free limited edition comic book.

Fathom Events and STX Entertainment are excited to present Hardcore Henry: The Ultimate Fan Experience in select movie theatres nationwideon Thursday, April 7 for a special one-night event.

Be one of the first to see the epic thrill-ride Hardcore Henry before it’s theatrical release, experience an exclusive Q&A with the director and receive a free limited edition comic book.

As an added bonus, fans have the ability to submit questions which may be answered during the Q&A. Tweet your questions using the hashtag #HardcoreFans on or before March 13.

Told in first person point of view, from the eyes of Henry himself, this wild action adventure is one of the first of its kind. Having just been resurrected from death with no memory, Henry must discover his identity and save his wife from a warlord with a plan to bio-engineer soldiers.

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Filed Under: Film Headlines Tagged With: cinemas, experience, fan, hardcore, henry, sale, ...

Syfy and Philips Announce First Ever Transmedia Lighting Experience for Sharknado and Sharknado 2 In-home Screening

NOW SHARKNADO WILL LIGHT UP AMERICA’S HOMES!

SYFY AND PHILIPS ANNOUNCE FIRST EVER TRANSMEDIA LIGHTING EXPERIENCE FOR SHARKNADO AND SHARKNADO 2 IN-HOME SCREENING

NEW YORK – July 24 2014 – Just in time for the world premiere of Sharknado 2: The Second One, Syfy and Philips, the global leader in lighting, today announced the first ever television content-focused immersive lighting experience with the pairing of the Syfy Sync second screen app and the Philips Hue connected lighting system for the home.

Fans who pair the Syfy Sync app for iPhone and iPad and Philips Hue bulbs while watching Sharknado and Sharknado 2 on Wednesday, July 30 (at 7PM and 9PM EST, respectively) will be treated to a specially designed “light track” – a visual soundtrack – that adds a heightened layer to the movie-watching experience in addition to the existing content and social experience Syfy Sync provides. However, fans of Syfy and Hue can get warmed up starting today as the app works immediately with the original Sharknado, available on a variety of platforms.

When combined, the app will detect audio cues from the Sharknado movies and translate them to the Web-enabled Hue system. Fans will of then be enveloped in the onscreen action through ambient lighting effects as the bulbs change colors to reflect the increasingly stormy weather conditions, chainsaw-induced shark carnage and more throughout the two movies.

In making the announcement, Matthew Chiavelli, Vice President, Digital Media & Strategy, said: “With a fan base that’s always looking for new ways to interact with our content, we’re happy to give them an innovative way take it to the next level. Syfy Sync has always been a multiplatform play, and now the action makes the leap from the television and second screen to an even more immersive Sharknado viewing experience with Philips Hue.”

“We continue to look at new and innovative ways that we can create unique lighting experiences for the home and working with Syfy, we can give Sharknado viewers a whole new way to experience television,” said Arif Quraishi, Vice President of Marketing, Sales and Strategy at Philips. “Unlike other lighting offerings that are limited to proprietary systems, we can work through third-party apps like Syfy Sync, and allow the lighting to react to Sharknado content, taking a further bite out of the audience’s imagination. Together we are making television history.”

To download Syfy Sync:
http://bit.ly/1b2l7um

To purchase Philips Hue:
http://meethue.com/

About Royal Philips:
Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) is a diversified health and well-being company, focused on improving people’s lives through meaningful innovation in the areas of Healthcare, Consumer Lifestyle and Lighting. Headquartered in the Netherlands, Philips posted 2013 sales of EUR 23.3 billion and employs approximately 113,000 employees with sales and services in more than 100 countries. The company is a leader in cardiac care, acute care and home healthcare, energy efficient lighting solutions and new lighting applications, as well as male shaving and grooming and oral healthcare. News from Philips is located at www.philips.com/newscenter.

About Syfy:
Syfy is a media destination for imagination-based entertainment. With year round acclaimed original series, events, blockbuster movies, classic science fiction and fantasy programming, a dynamic Web site (www.Syfy.com), and a portfolio of adjacent business (Syfy Ventures), Syfy is a passport to limitless possibilities. Originally launched in 1992 as SCI FI Channel, and currently in 96 million homes, Syfy is a network of NBCUniversal, one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies. NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation. (Syfy. Imagine Greater.)

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Filed Under: TV Headlines Tagged With: 2, announce, experience, inhome, lighting, philips, ...

Experience Summer Like A Local And Enjoy A Little Something Extra With Loews Hotels & Resorts

Get the most out of everyone’s favorite travel season with value-driven deals on local attractions and a special perk simply for booking early

NEW YORK, May 20, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — Summer will be here before you know it and over way too soon. This year get the most out of everyone’s favorite travel season with Experience Summer Like a Local from Loews Hotels & Resorts. Offering great rates and value-driven deals on local attractions, the new seasonal promotion makes an exciting start to a memorable getaway for couples, families and friends. And if that weren’t enough, guests can get a complimentary perk on top by booking their stay early through a One-Day Cyber Sale on May 21, 2014.

From design to decor, dining to diversions, the distinctive charms of Loews Hotels are drawn from the locations around them. Experience Summer Like a Local offers guests great deals on local attractions that just can’t be experienced elsewhere. For instance:

  • At Loews Hotel Annapolis enjoy a “Day at the Bay” on the sparkling Chesapeake with a special 20% discount from Schooner Woodwind Sailing, plus two sun visors, complimentary breakfast for two, suntan lotion and lip balm, and complimentary parking for one car.
  • At Loews Coronado Bay Resort overlooking the Pacific, get a “Summer Sweet Deal“ with two adult tickets for a day of fun at the San Diego Zoo, Legoland or Seaworld. Don’t forget to bring the kids!
  • Linger longer at Loews Hotel Vogue, Montreal and enjoy a “Summer Sweet Deal“ for a 3rd night at 50% off, plus an Insider Guide to Montreal and $450 worth of deals on popular attractions and restaurants. See if you can use ’em.

Take summer vacation over the top with the One-Day Cyber Sale from Loews Hotels & Resorts onWednesday, May 21, 2014. Book the Experience Summer Like a Local package or Loews Best Available Rate online at www.loewshotels.com and take your pick of a special summer perk with choice of one:

  • $25 Parking Credit
  • Two Summer Cocktails Daily
  • Complimentary Premium Plus Wi-Fi
  • Late Check Out

Summer rates at Loews Hotels from $199 per night. For more information or to arrange your stay, call 1-800-23-LOEWS or visit www.loewshotels.com.

Offer available through www.loewshotels.com and bookable at 12:01 AM EST May 21st, 2014, through3:00 AM EST May 22nd, 2014, for reservations through September 30th, 2014; subject to availability and blackout dates. Not available at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Hard Rock Hotel in Orlando or Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort. Taxes and gratuities not included. Not applicable to groups, negotiated or third-party rates. Cannot be combined with any other promotional offer other than those listed below. Not applicable to existing reservations. Only one perk is available per room. Premium Plus Internet is the premium Internet option that, outside of this offer, incurs a fee. Premium Plus Internet offers the ability to connect up to 8 devices per room. The $25 parking credit is per stay (not per day or per person) and applies to valet or self-parking charges at the selected hotel only. Late checkout is defined as up to three hours past the official checkout time per the selected hotel’s policy. Must be 21 years of age or older to receive alcohol, non-alcoholic beverages may be substituted on request. Hotel follows responsible beverage service principles and reserves the right at any time to deny service of alcohol to patrons. Offer excludes premium wines and liquors. Additional terms & conditions apply to each property’s local offer. Please see specific terms that apply on the landing page for each offer.

Loews Hotels & Resorts
Headquartered in New York City, Loews Hotels & Resorts owns and/or operates 20 hotels and resorts in the U.S. and Canada, including the newly acquired Loews Madison Hotel located in the heart ofWashington at the epicenter of legendary D.C. landmarks and the Loews Boston Hotel, one of Boston’spreeminent historic buildings, situated on the corner of Berkeley and Stuart Streets. Located in major city centers and resort destinations in North America from coast to coast, the Loews portfolio features one-of-a-kind properties that go beyond Four Diamond standards to delight guests with a supremely comfortable, uniquely local and vibrant travel experience. For reservations or more information about Loews Hotels & Resorts, call 1-800-23-LOEWS or visit: www.loewshotels.com.

Like Loews Hotels & Resorts on Facebook: www.facebook.com/LoewsHotels
Follow Loews Hotels & Resorts on Twitter: www.twitter.com/loews_hotels
Watch Loews Hotels & Resorts on YouTube: www.youtube.com/LoewsHotels
Read our Wish You Were Here Blog at www.loewshotelsblog.com

SOURCE Loews Hotels & Resorts

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: enjoy, experience, extra, hotels, local, loews, ...

Gene Hoglan talks about his “The Gene Hoglan Experience” shows

Gene Hoglan has been a drummer in the music business since the early 80’s performing with groups such as Dark Angel, Death and more recently Testament and the Brendon Small helmed Dethklok. When not performing with one of his my projects Gene partakes in drum clinics around the world. He newest run of performances are being billed under the name “The Gene Hoglan Experience” which combines clinic style demonstrations and impromptu question and answer sessions. Media Mikes spoke with Gene recently about the shows and all of the other cool projects he has going on.

Adam Lawton: What led to the idea of doing “The Gene Hoglan Experience” shows?
Gene Hoglan: Whenever I go out and do clinics they always end up being at drum stores and a majority of the people who attend those are drummers however, I have had people come up to me afterwards and tell me they aren’t a drummer but love my work and find me interesting. I started to think about ways to reach a larger audience and make it less drummer exclusive. I also was thinking of it as a way to revolutionize the clinic industry by taking these types of performances to larger/different venues. I wanted this to be something more than just drums or drumming. I have a lot more than drums in me so I am always open to talking about whatever and answering all the questions people may have. I tested this idea out in Canada and it went really well. From there I decided that once I had some time in my schedule I would try and do more of these. This is a way for me to get out there without having to hit up my drum companies up for crap loads of money. I’m getting to do this kind of independently which is pretty cool. I get to interact with the fans and give them a chance to have a one on one moment with me. I like to talk and play drums so this is really great.

AL: What type of feedback did you get from that first show?
GH: People were coming up to me telling me that they had never seen anything like this before. Musicians were saying this is much more different than your typical clinic. Things have been super positive. I know I am not perfect but I think I have a good enough grasp on this type of thing to make it fun an enjoyable for those who attend. Things have sort of evolved over time. I did one show where I was asked if I could play a Strapping Young Lad song however I didn’t have any of that material with me. Someone from the crowd said they had the CD in their car and could go get it. They brought it in and we did it! Things have just evolved in to this really cool interactive and engaging thing. I love people having their faces rocked off followed by smiles.

AL: Being that the show is live and unscripted is there ever any nervousness on your part?
GH: It’s a very unprepared type of scenario. There are a few prepared elements like what songs I may be performing that night but even that can change. I don’t get nervous. My fiancé was with me while I was prepping for a clinic in Vancouver and she told me that she couldn’t believe how little I prepare. She’s is a musician herself and said she would need flash cards and things like that. I just have my own thing going on and she couldn’t believe how well it ended up going. I usually have a couple points in my head that I try to get to but if it doesn’t happen I try to make sure my content is so strong that it makes up for it. I want to make sure that I and everyone else have a great time.

AL: Have there been any talks about filming these upcoming run of dates?
GH: We haven’t really talked about that part of things yet. The main reason I will be out doing these shows is that I have a new DVD coming out. I’m not sure as to which show I would actually choose to film though because each night is going to be different. I don’t think I’m really up for filming all of the shows and then putting them together into one. Mainly I don’t want to wear the same shirt every night. (Laughs)

AL: In the past few years you have begun working with Brendon Small of “Metalocalypse” and Dethklok. How did that partnership come about?
GH: Brendon is one of the best guys I have ever worked with. I mean that and am not just trying to put my lips to his butt. I will tell him that to his face. From the start Brendon has always been a really easy going and fun guy. I think that also comes across in his work ethic. Brendon is a guy that always has my back. Having never dealt with a network before he has always been there backing me. The support has just been great. How things started was one day I got a call out of the blue from Brendon asking if I would be interested in recording a soundtrack album for season one of the show. I had seen the show before but wasn’t really aware of what it was. The show has killer music and it was something I was definitely interested in. We were a two man project for quite awhile until we started touring and added Brian Beller on bass and Mike Keneally on guitar. Things have just gotten cooler with each album we work on together. I love Brendon to death.

AL: Being a guy who often has multiple projects going on at once. How do you adjust your playing/mindset to fit all the things you are working on?
GH: I suppose it has to do with the fact that I am always willing to forego the “Gene Hoglan’s Style” for what is best for the band. If I am playing with someone like Death which calls for a pretty technical, busy style while the stuff I did with Strapping Young Lad wasn’t as busy but needed to be very powerful. I am very willing to suppress my own style in an effort to do what’s best for the band. I filled in on drums with Otep for a few shows and they were already mid-tour. They were used to how there drummer did things so I had to try and fit to what was already being done. When I filled in with Anthrax I sat behind Charlie for a few shows with a video camera so I could make sure I learned exactly what he was doing. Charlie doesn’t play some of the material the way it was recorded 25 years the same now. I wanted to make sure that I was able to capture that and not just learn the album versions of the songs. I was blessed with sort of a steel trap mind when it comes to learning material and I think that has been somewhat beneficial as well.

AL: What other projects do you currently have in the works?
GH: Well the new DVD I have coming out is titled “The Atomic Clock: The Clock Strikes Two”. That is going to feature a lot of the stuff I have been doing at my clinics. For this release I was able to get the licenses for the songs I am playing. Everything from Death, Testament and Meldrum are going to be on there. The new DVD has a lot of depth to it and I have tried to improve on everything included. Testament has a show coming up in August with Iron Maiden and a bunch of other great acts. After that Testament will be out with Lamb of God and Killswitch Engage and from there have already started making tour plans for 2014. Then recently I received a text from Brendon stating he has completed the next Dethklok album so I am sure we will be getting involved with that real soon. I am hoping to do some Death To All shows which is a tribute to Death performances as well. Lastly I have been recording a ton of new stuff with my guitarist Laura Christine who is just amazing. Hopefully we will have material out this coming year. I am really stoked about all of this stuff. It’s going to be great and is something I wished for. I wanted to play drums for a living and I am getting to do that.

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Filed Under: Interviews, Music Interviews Tagged With: experience, gene, hoglan, shows, talks

Keanu Reeves and Mark Mann talk about working together on “Generation Um…”

Keanu Reeves is known for his films in franchises like “The Matrix” and “Bill & Ted”. In this film “Generation Um…”, he plays a much different role within this character piece. Mark Mann is the writer and director on the film, which is his feature film debut. Media Mikes had a chance to chat with Keanu and Mark on the film and what we can expect.

Click here for our interview with Adelaide Clemens & Bojana Novakovic

Mike Gencarelli: Mark, tell us how did “Generation Um…” come about for you?
Mark Mann: Alison Palmer (Bourke), the producer on the project, gave Keanu the script to look at as a friend at first. He liked it and said he wanted to meet with me. We had a coffee and it was sort of monumental coffee. We riffed creatively for a bit and found out that we got along well. We shared visions for the characters and the story. So after that he decided to do the film, which was great. He was perfect for the role. So we went out and made a movie [laughs].

MG: Keanu, what was it that really drew you to the role of John?
Keanu Reeves: I liked so many things about the character. What stuck out for me was the writing, the structure, the humor, the humanity and the way the story was told. With John, in particular, I had a great sympathy for him. He felt like a character that was hyper-aware. He was trapped in his past, maybe with his confidence or trapped in his life.  He was seeking a connection, a friendship or something that we might think of as simple but is fundamental to life. I felt like a lot of people could relate to him. I also felt that since this took place in New York and it was more personal and I liked that.

MG: Any challenges with shooting in New York?
KR: [laughs]
MM: I had no issues whatsoever [laughs]. New York is a great place to shoot. Just because you are shooting there doesn’t mean that it is going to behave any different than New York does. It seems to add attention to the frame. We were using New York in a somewhat unorthodox fashion, with shooting in the park, running down streets, driving over bridges and staring at trains. In general, I think that New York tolerates you if you shine at the end of it all.

MG: Keanu, this is a real change from some of your past action driven films; was it a challenge taking on this character piece?
KR: I wouldn’t really say a challenge but more of an opportunity. What struck me was getting a chance to actually shoot the footage that John does in the film. That was a very unique situation for me and it was something that I really appreciated and enjoyed. The trust that Mark put into me was great. He was like “Ok Keanu…go shoot!” We shot on Super 16 with a lot of wide angle lenses and fixed perspectives. So we get to learn about John through the camera but also get to learn about the other characters from John’s perspective. For me that was very unique, fulfilling and a fun opportunity.
MM: What was interesting about that, as well, you will notice in the film that he bundles that into the character. You watch the character developing his own feelings through the camera itself.

MG: Mark, what was your biggest challenge taking on your first feature film?
MM: I would have to say just making a film. It is an impossible pursuit. Once you start getting into it there are so many things going on at the same time. It is like you are one with the inside of your head with little tentacles extending out sort of taking of the form of all these different people all handling various tasks. It is impossible…
KR: No it’s not [laughs].
MM: Yeah it was easy. It was like butter [laughs].

MG: Keanu, I loved the chemistry between you and your leading ladies, Adelaide Clemens and Bojana Novakovic. What did you do to form that bond between the three of you for this film?
KR: We started with the audition process. Mark went on search for Violet and Mia. Luckily, I was a part of that process. He asked me to videotape the actresses that came in to meet on the project. It happened with both Bojana and Addy that there was a nice simpatico between us and we got along right away. They were interesting and loved the material. As me moved forward in rehearsal and just hanging out, everyone seemed to be on the same page. We just got along really great, so that was really cool. Mark really let me in and be a part of the creative process and I really appreciated that as well.
MM: That was part of the fun though. The film ultimately is what happens between the people making the film. It was just great. Having Keanu, Adelaide and Bojana together work through it all in rehearsals and then turning on the camera and watching them do it was amazing.

MG: Mark, you also wrote the screenplay. How much did it change throughout the production?
MM: The script was god. It was bible. It didn’t change.
KR: Urgh…writers and directors, they say that the script is god. [laughs]
MM: [laughs] If you asked me the question as a director, I might have a different answer but in terms of writing you have to have a moment when you can be a writer. That is what writers do.
KR: It was just really a great script. One could think that it was improvised since the words are just so great.
MM: There are also a lot of moments of silence in the movie and I had to try to push it into direction. But there were these long moments with Keanu, Bojana and Adelaide where they are just there and they are doing what they are doing. That is not something you can write. It was very exciting to see them take the implications that I wrote and then completely bring it to this magically level where they were and just embodied these characters.
KR: Human animal footage [laughs].

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Filed Under: Film Interviews, Interviews Tagged With: experience, film, generation, keanu, mann, mark, ...
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