2013 08/23-08/29

The Premier Filipino-American Newspaper in the U.S. since 1961. It was founded in 1961 in the San Francisco home of expatriate Alex Esclamado. It has become one of the oldest and biggest Asian American newspapers with a weekly circulation of 120,000.

Northern California's fast-growing Filipino American newspaper in circulation since 2007, the Philippines Today is well-known to provide fair news and fearless views. The leading mid-week Fil-Am local newspaper is being distributed free in the major cities of Northern California.

Your No. 1 Source of Filipino Entertainment News in North America.

Fil-Am Insider is a bi-weekly entertainment publication for the Filipino community circulated in Northern and Southern California, Nevada and New York.

SCENES IN THE CITY

Bradford Adkins, 'SCENES In The City' is a widely read Filipino-American community column in San Francisco since 2008. Online, it is being globally read by more than 1.7 M viewers in 160 countries. The column features include: the issues and events, the individuals and organizations moving the community.

The First

"BINIBINING Social Media 2013" Award

The "BINIBINING SOCIAL MEDIA" was awarded to Alexandra Drechsler of San Jose, CA. She was also named as The First Ever Winner of BINIBINING TFC during the pageant's finals held last Saturday, July 27 at the Centinela Valley Performing Arts Center in Lawndale, CA.

2013 Miss Fil-West Coast Alma Cabasal of Los Angeles, CA was crowned as Miss Philippines Earth (FIRE) during the only 'Green' pageant on Earth's finals in Manila in April. The search is now on for Miss Philippines Earth (USA) 2014. Join now!

Bamban Mayor Jose Antonio T. Feliciano (4th left) recently visited the Bay Area with (L-R)Jing Navarro, Noel Yabut, Ligaya Bowman, Fernando Lumboy, Chapter President Angelio Arguelias, Erviela Maristela & Jane Shauf.

Belated Happy Birthday, Cora Soriano (center) of San Jose, CA who recently held a family and friends gathering to celebrate her 78th at Tomi's Shushi.

Belated Happy Birthday Reggie Panganiban (right) and her mom, Norma of Brentwood, CA jointly partied with family and intimate friends in Concord, CA.

LOOKING FOR THE NEXT

MISS PHILIPPINES EARTH (USA)

TO-BE SEEN IN THE CITY

(San Francisco, CA) – What do these beautiful woman have in common - Ginger Conejero, Krystle Dizon, Nikki Martin, Melissa Sokukawa, Charmaine Chiong and Alma Cabasal? They were all once Miss Philippines Earth (USA) beauty title holders who represented the Filipino community of United States in the national level Miss Philippines Earth in Manila.

This early, the search is now open for this year’s delegate. If you are a natural-born female / Must be between the ages of 16-25 / Must encompass great beauty, elegance, and poise / Meet the height requirement of 5’5” (without heels) / Must be a high school graduate / Must be of good moral character / Must be knowledgeable of environmental issues surrounding candidate’s country / Must be able to stay in Manila for at least a month during the pageant/ If successful and named Miss Philippine Earth 2014, winner must be able to fulfill her responsibilities and stay in the Philippines for the entire duration of her reign / Must have at least 25% Filipino blood.

Applicants are now being screened for the Miss Philippines Earth USA beauty pageant to take place later this year. The winner, Miss Philippines Earth USA, will be sent to Manila to compete in the Miss Philippines Earth competition in March of 2014. This is the only “green” pageant on Earth that focuses on helping our environment.

“I think that this is a highly reputable pageant that strives for a great cause. A pageant in honor of promoting good values and a healthy environment is a great way to raise awareness in both the US and Philippines. I personally enjoyed the pageant and will always remember the memories I made and how I was able to impact people through my reign as Miss Philippines Earth USA 2010,” said Melissa Sokukawa of Union City.

The pageant will take place on November 2, 1013 at The Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center in San Ramon, CA. Hosting this event will be Mitchell Smith, Keesa Ocampo and Alexandra Drechsler.

Submissions/Questions can be directed to:

Bheng Topacio – btopacio@yahoo.com - (925) 366-4065

Bradford Adkins – Bradford_adkins@yahoo.com - (925) 389-1382

This article also appears online at www.BradfordAdkins.com,www.ScenesInTheCity.com, www.PinoyEntertainment.us, www.PhilippineNews.com,www.FilAmInsider.com and http://sites.google.com/site/adkinsmmcevents/Home/with readership in 160 countries now (& still counting!) according to the latest Google Analytics report.

Do you have any personal or community events you want announced or published? Just email them to bradford_adkins@yahoo.com

Add me on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/jb.adkins

Bay Area-raised and educated Perkins Twins (Jesse and Christian) are now certified Star Records contract artists with the release of their first single, "IKAW NA."

PERKINS TWINS:

TAKING MANILA BY STORM

SEEN IN THE CITY

(MANILA, PHILIPPINES) – Nothing, not even the force majeure that is Typhoon Maring can stop the the Perkins Twins - Jesse and Christian Perkins, the singing Tennis Grand Prix Doubles Champions, originally of Menlo Park, CA, as they recently appear at a Star Records press conference introducing them and their very first single, ‘Ikaw Na.’

Driven. Talented. Gorgeous. Smart. Deep. Those are some of the words that best describe Jesse and Christian Perkins. These 19 year old lookers who were born 2 minutes apart have a lot of commonalities and yet are very much their own individual in terms of qualities and outlook. Born from an American father and a retired Filipina stewardess who hails from Tuguegarao, Cagayan, the twins were born in the Philippines and raised in the US (California). It’s quite inevitable for success to cross their paths since both of them are academic scholars at the University of California at Berkeley, and star athletes as well. Both Christian and Jesse play the electric and acoustic guitar as well as the ukulele while Jesse admits that he is a frustrated keyboardist. Both of them are scholars right now at Meridian International School (MINT) which specializes in music education. Just like any other teenager, both Christian and Jesse love the beach. The twins also spend most of their time with family (and their cat who they brought from the US) and are deeply involved in Christian Youth Groups. The twins are vocal and proud to be born again Christians. When it comes to girls, Christian and Jesse may share the same admiration with someone, but they never had a crush on the same girl. They prefer someone who is God fearing, simple, with good morals and values.

Today, the twins are blessed with strings of modeling commitments, live performances and sports activities. Christian recently had a billboard for a soft drink ad. Jesse has two commercials. Christian and Jesse both love Manila and according to them, there are lots of events going on wherever you are; unlike California which is more laid back and sometimes slow. The twins recently signed with STAR RECORDS and just launched their newest single by Vehnee Saturno called “Ikaw Na” which is now being played on MOR 101.9 Tambayan. Recently, the twins were featured on ASAP-Chillout, the official online livestreaming of Sunday’s #1 variety show, ASAP 18 and were interviewed by no less than Boy Abunda for his Bandila segment called “Ikaw Na” where the twin’s current single of the same title is played every night. Hence, Jesse and Christian will serenade us more with their heartwarming musical ensemble. The good news is, they are here to stay.

Download the Perkins Twins’ maiden single, ‘Ikaw Na’ on this iTunes link - https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/ikaw-na-single/id666836908

This article also appears online at www.BradfordAdkins.com,www.ScenesInTheCity.com, www.PinoyEntertainment.us, www.PhilippineNews.com, www.FilAmInsider.com and http://sites.google.com/site/adkinsmmcevents/Home/with readership in 160 countries now (& still counting!) according to the latest Google Analytics report.

Do you have any personal or community events you want announced or published? Just email them to bradford_adkins@yahoo.com

Add me on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/jb.adkins

Follow me on Twitter (www.twitter.com/bradford_adkins)

PIOLO, GERALD, AT IBA PANG "OTJ" STARS, MAGBIBIGAY SAYA SA MGA KAPAMILYA NATIONWIDE. Sa gitna ng unti-unting pagbangon ng bansa mula sa pinsalang dulot ng bagyong Maring at Habagat, magbibigay kasiyahan sa mga Kapamilya sina Piolo Pascual, Gerald Anderson at iba pang bida ng action-thriller film ng Star Cinema at Reality Entertainment na "On The Job" (OJT). Dadayo bukas (Agosto 22) sa iba't ibang bahagi ng Pilipinas ang "OTJ" stars para sa simultaneous mall shows at symposia. Sa Pampanga, dadalo si Piolo sa symposium sa Angeles University Foundation sa ganap na 3pm at mall show sa Marquee Mall Pampanga sa ganap na 5pm. Sa Cebu, tutungo sina Gerald at Dawn Jimenez sa Cebu Normal University (3pm), SM Cebu (4pm), at SM Consolacion (6pm). Sa Bacolod, tampok sina Direk Erik Matti at Joel Torre sa University of St. La Salle Bacolod (10am) at Robinson Bacolod (4pm). Ang internationally-acclaimed na "OTJ" ay mapapanood na sa mga sinehan sa buong bansa sa susunod na Miyerkules (Agosto 28). Para sa karagdagang impormasyon at pinakabagong updates tungkol sa "OTJ," bisitahin lamang ang www.StarCinema.com.ph,http://facebook.com/StarCinema at http://twitter.com/StarCinema.

“Huwag ka Lang Mawawala” lead stars give viewers a grand farewell treat…

“ASAP 18” MAKES HISTORY WITH 1 MILLION FOLLOWERS ON TWITTER

Philippines’ no.1 and longest-running musical variety show “ASAP 18” recently made history after its official account @ASAPOFFICIAL reached more than one million followers on Twitter. “ASAP 18” is the only TV show in the country that has the biggest following in the popular social media site worldwide.

In celebration of its newest milestone, “ASAP 18” is set to throw a grand showcase of talent, artistry and surprises this Sunday (August 18) to thank all the TV viewers here and abroad who unfailingly make the show’s world-class segments top trending topics online.

Viewers will be treated with a grand farewell treat by “Huwag Ka Lang Mawawala” lead stars to be led by Pinoy Soap Opera Queen Judy Ann Santos and her co-stars KC Concepcion and Sam Milby. It will be followed by the show-stopping production number of the Comedy Concert Queen Ai Ai delas Alas.

Hearts will surely melt in the romantic serenade prepared by some of today’s hottest leading men Sam, Jericho Rosales, JC de Vera, and Paulo Avelino; and the fun rocking number by the OPM band, Banda Ni Kleggy together with the lead star of the blockbuster movie "Bakit Hindi Ka Crush Ng Crush Mo?" Kim Chiu.

Meanwhile, discover in the special segment of Mr. Pure Energy Gary Valenciano ‘With Love Gary V.’ the endearing story of Youtube sensation Cherry Alejandrino, who is better known now as ‘elevator girl.’

Groove to the beat with the must-watch smash up dance number of Kapamilya leading lady Nikki Gil together with teen stars Julia Barretto, Khalil Ramos, Jane Oineza, Nash Aguas, Jairus Aquino, Francis Magundayao, and Ella Cruz; and the breath-taking Supahdance showcase prepared by Shaina Magdayao, John Prats, and Rayver Cruz.

Also, watch out for the awaited reunion of former Freestyle vocalists Top Suzara and Jinky Vidal together with ASAP Covers Aiza Seguerra, Zia Quizon, Paolo Valenciano, and Yeng Constantino; and the hair-raising musical spectacle of Martin Nievera, ZsaZsa Padilla, Erik Santos, Jed Madela, KZ Tandingan, and the ASAP Sessionistas.

Join the grandest celebration of the whole ASAP Kapamilya in the country’s longest-running, award-winning variety show, “ASAP 18” this Sunday, 12 noon, on ABS-CBN. For updates, photos and to hang out live with the stars at ASAP Chill-Out, visit http://asap.abs-cbn.com/, ‘like’ http://facebook.com/asapofficial, follow @ASAPOFFICIAL on Twitter, and know the latest happenings in “ASAP 18” by tweeting the hashtag #ASAP1inAMillion.

Concerts/Theatre

"Annebisyosa World Tour 2013" starring Anne Curtis, special guest Martin Nieverra, special participation of Jimmy Marquez & G Force Dancers, featuring Rey Kilay, Vivorah & Poca on August 31, 2013 at Agua Caliente Resort Casino & Spa &September 1, 2013 at Grand Sierra Resort Casino, Reno, Nevada

WATCH AEGIS LIVE Sunday 10/13/13 @ San Jose Center For The Arts 6:30PM. Tickets available now ($38 $58 $78) Call (408) 896-5108!

He credits Carla and Dennis as the best possible co-actors for this kind of show.

“I get to work with a multi-awarded actor. It’s always a bonus because you get to learn so much na you wouldn’t otherwise get,” Tom said. “Same with Carla, because she is a natural, very talented actress.”

As expected, “My Husband’s Lover” received a bit of scrutiny from religious and conservative sectors. But Tom isn’t concerned about this.

“For me, I always make it a point to stress na everyone is free to have their own opinion. But you still need to have that level of respect with each other. Each of us may not agree with the same opinon, but we’re free to express them. So with that, I have qualms because we’re secure with what we’re doing,” he said.

The Kapuso actor added, “As long as GMA and the people are happy with what we’re doing, that’s the only thing that matters to us because we’re only here to entertain the viewers.”

“My Husband’s Lover” can be seen worldwide on GMA Pinoy TV, the flagship international channel ofGMA.

For more details, visit the GMA International website www.gmanetwork.com/international, Facebook pages www.facebook.com/GMAPinoyTV, www.facebook.com/GMALifeTV, and,www.facebook.com/GMANewsInternational, or Twitter pages @GMAPinoyTV,@GMA_LifeTV and @GMANewsTVIntl. (30)

Tom Rodriguez an international favorite thanks to ‘My Husband’s Lover’

When actor Tom Rodriguez accepted the offer to play closeted homosexual Vincent in the GMA 7 drama series “My Husband’s Lover,” he knew the role would be the biggest challenge in his career so far. What he didn’t expect was that he’d become the talk of the town via his very nuanced portrayal of a conflicted married man torn between his wife Lally (played by Carla Abellana) and his lover Eric (played by Dennis Trillo).

“When I heard about the audition, I had that apprehension, that fear. Nung nakwento sa akin yung theme or the type of show that it was gonna be, I froze. Namutla ako, to be honest,” he said.

“But naisip ko na this is going to be the most challenging thing I’ve ever done. I don’t know if this is going to be the most challenging thing I’ll ever do, because I want to challenge myself pa more in the future. But this is the most challenging role to date that I’ve done.”

Actually, Tom became more than just a local sensation. The Kapuso actor is now being watched all over the globe through GMA Pinoy TV. Even non-Pinoys try to follow the unusual love triangle of Vincent, Lally, and Eric—despite not knowing a single word of Tagalog. “My Husband’s Lover” and its numerous hashtags are constant trending topics on Twitter Philippines, and the show continues to be the subject of Philippine—and even international—media.

“Puro mixed emotions pa rin hanggang ngayon, e. Andoon yung pressure. Pressure to continue giving quality product or quality show for the viewers. And at the same time, I’d very happy for the buzz that has been created and we’re so thankful for the fans who are responsible for it,” Tom said regarding the success of “My Husband’s Lover.”

A native of Samar, Tom migrated to the United States when he was 12 years old. Born to an American father and Filipina mother, the actor (real name: Bartolome Mott) got his start in showbiz via a rival network’s reality show. He appeared in a number of critically and financially successful shows, including 2011’s “Temptation Island” produced by GMA Films and Regal Entertainment with Kapuso stars Marian Rivera, Solenn Heussaff, Lovi Poe, and Heart Evangelista. He also played the title character in the Philippine stage adaptation of the musical “Aladdin.” But “My Husband’s Lover” has proved to be his tipping point as an actor, the breakthrough of his career.

BINOY HENYO brings inspiration and love on GMA

As GMA Network celebrates its 63rd anniversary, another heartwarming TV fare will touch the hearts of Filipino viewers via the family drama series, BINOY HENYO.

Binoy Henyo features the ingenuity and craftsmanship of a genius boy who possesses a big and optimistic heart despite his struggles with poverty and his longing for a father figure in his life. The program takes us on a captivating and inspiring adventure that the whole family, most especially the moms and kids, can enjoy.

Binoy Henyo’s storyline teaches parents to raise their kids to be the best they can be while highlighting the importance of maintaining a strong parental involvement in every child’s learning and development. Hence, the program believes that an encouraging parent is every child’s greatest asset.

Sought-after Kapuso actress Sheena Halili, takes up the challenge on playing her first mother role in the series. Sheena, who has showcased her versatility in portraying character roles in various GMA programs including Indio, Tweets for My Sweet, Alice Bungisngis and Her Wonder Walis, Amaya, among others, dabbles in her most challenging role yet as Agnes, David’s uneducated mother who loves him unconditionally and will do anything to protect her child.

Sheena says she is grateful to GMA for continuously giving her good projects and for trusting her as she tackles a meaty role in Binoy Henyo, “Pinagkatiwala nila sa akin yung show na ito dahil naniniwala sila na kaya kong maging nanay, gusto kong talagang magampanan ito ng tama. Kaya ko tinanggap yung role na ito hindi lang para sa viewers, gusto kong may matutunan ang mga nanay na napaka-importante na habang lumalaki ang mga anak ay gabayan natin sila kung ano man ang pinagdaraanan nila. Kaya may puso talaga yung show.”

Sheena also shares that she observes her own mother while preparing for her role. “Ino-obserbahan ko siya. Pag malungkot ako, doble ang lungkot niya. Pag masaya ka, makikita mo yung glow sa mukha nila. So, iyon yung tinatandaan ko. And inaaral ko rin si David. I want to develop a relationship with David on and off screen. Pag nasa set ako, alam kong nanay na ako. Si David dapat makikinig or makikipaglaro siya sa akin, yung hindi na siya maiilang. Iyon yung ina-apply ko every taping. During the auditions, kay David ko naramdaman na yung iyak niya, tumatama sa akin. Hindi lang iyak lang. Kaya alam kong may potential yung bata, mamahalin siya. Kahit sa set, hindi namin kayang magalit sa kanya kahit makulit siya.”

Adding star power to the program is talented Kapuso actor Luis Alandy as Francis, Agnes’ boyfriend and David’s long lost father.

Fast-rising actress Gwen Zamora plays a vital role as Emily, Luis’ barren wife.

Joining the cast is one of Philippine Cinema’s highly-commended veteran actresses, Ms. Nova Villa asChato, Agnes’ aunt.

And playing the coveted title role is Kapuso Network’s newest child discovery -- David Remo. The jolly personality, natural charisma and quick wit of this six-year-old boy is all set to charm audiences as he breathes life to the character of Binoy. The series is David’s first television project, but he has already appeared in numerous commercial endorsements. At present, David balances his time between work and school as a Grade 1 pupil in La Salle Greenhills.

Completing the all-star cast are Rich Asuncion as Josie, Binoy’s teacher; Lorenzo “Tata” Mara as Alfredo,Francis’ father; Frencheska Farr as Sandy, Emily’s scheming cousin; Gene Padilla as Chairman Domeng, Agnes’ suitor; Lucho Ayala as Jaime, Francis’ younger brother; Ervic Vijandre as Lito, Len-Len’s older brother; Angel Satsumi as Len-Len, Binoy’s bestfriend; Zyrel Jestre as Botchok, Chairman Domeng’s son.

In the series, viewers will witness how Binoy, regardless of being mischievous and playful, will be able to inspire and touch the lives of the people around him. His innate creativity, wild imagination and genuine curiosity will lead him to invent and do things that will help the people he loved. Despite all the problems he is encountering, Binoy will never lose hope to be reunited with his father.

On the other hand, Agnes will single-handedly raise Binoy to become a respectful, smart, and loving boy. In spite of her personal hardships and her struggles of not being able to read and write, she will strive to learn and get an education as she works hard to make ends meet just to give Binoy a good life.

Under the helm of Director Albert Langitan, Binoy Henyo is created by the GMA Drama group headed byLilybeth G. Rasonable, Officer-in-charge for Entertainment TV; Ma. Regina Magno, Vice President for Drama; Cheryl Ching-Sy, Assistant Vice President for Drama; Camille Hermoso, Program Manager andWinnie Hollis-Reyes, Executive Producer.

The creative team is composed of Creative Director, Jun Lana; Creative Head, Jake Tordesillas; Creative Consultant, Aloy Adlawan; and Headwriter, Marlon Miguel.

The exciting adventures of Binoy Henyo begin July 23 on GMA Pinoy TV. GMA Pinoy TV, the flagship international channel of the GMA Network, can be seen in the US and in countries in Europe, the Middle East, North Africa and Asia Pacific. For more details, visit the GMA International websitewww.gmanetwork.com/international, Facebook page www.facebook.com/GMAPinoyTV, and Twitter page@GMAPinoyTV. (30)

TV5 Virgin Bombshell Ritz Azul receives admiring comments on Misibis Bay

Newest sexy drama mini-series Misibis Bay has set primetime TV on fire, when it premiered last July 1 on TV5. Viewers and netizens were captivated by its fast-paced story and steamy love scenes, and were enamored by its lead star, Ritz Azul. Social networking sites Facebook and Twitter were flooded with positive comments about her acting, and virginal beauty.

Misibis Bay is about Maita Ramirez, a slum girl who only dreams of providing a comfortable life for her ailing grandmother. Her miserable life takes a drastic turn when she decides to marry an older rich man and faces its consequences throughout the story. Despite this, Maita still dreams big, and perseveres amidst all odds, to get what she deserves. Adding complications to her life are the three sons of Anthony (Christopher de Leon) – Andrew (Daniel Matsunga), Bernard (Victor Silayan) and Charlie (Vin Abrenica) and his older sister Miranda (Vivian Velez) who will not stop from making Maita’s life miserable.

Meanwhile, witness the much-awaited wedding of Maita and Anthony in the luxury island playground in Albay this coming month. Will Maita be able to attain the happiness she ought to have? What challenges await her now that she has chosen to settle down with Anthony?

Expect more revelations, daring scenes, and more of TV5 virgin bombshell Ritz Azul, as the sexy drama mini-series Misibis Bay continues on primetime TV, weeknights on Kapatid TV5.

Kapatid TV5 is available in the United States, Canada, Middle East, Europe, North Africa and Asia.

"MOTHER OF GEORGE"

WILL OPEN IN LOS ANGELES ON FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20TH

AT THE LAEMMLE'S ROYAL THEATRE

ADDITIONAL THEATRICAL RELEASE INFO:

SEPTEMBER 13TH - ANGELIKA FILM CENTER (NEW YORK CITY)

SEPTEMBER 20TH - LANDMARK MIDTOWN ART CINEMA (ATLANTA)

SEPTEMBER 20TH - AMC EMPIRE 25 (NEW YORK CITY)

SEPTEMBER 27TH - SISKEL FILM CENTER (CHICAGO)

SEPTEMBER 27TH - LANDMARK (SEATTLE)

OCTOBER 4TH - LANDMARK KENDALL SQUARE CINEMA (BOSTON)

OCTOBER 18TH - LANDMARK E-STREET CINEMA (WASHINGTON D.C.)

NOVEMBER 22ND - LANDMARK RITZ AT THE BOURSE (PHILADELPHIA)

**2013 Sundance Film Festival Winner**

U.S. Dramatic Cinematography Award

STARRING

Danai Gurira (from AMC's The Walking Dead), Isaach De Bankole, Yaya DaCosta Alafia, Tony Okungbowa, Bukky Ajayi, Angelique Kidjo

On behalf of Oscilloscope Laboratories, you and a guest are invited to a screening of MOTHER OF GEORGE, the poetic and moving second feature by Andrew Dosunmu (RESTLESS CITY), starring Danai Gurira (Michonne from AMC's The Walking Dead, THE VISITOR). Featuring stunning work by acclaimed cinematographer Bradford Young (AIN'T THEM BODIES SAINTS), the film premiered to critical acclaim at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival, and will make it's New York premiere at the BAM Cinemafest before opening theatrically in mid-September.

After the joyous wedding between Adenike (Gurira) and Ayodele (Isaach De Bankolé, WHITE MATERIAL, NIGHT ON EARTH), a Nigerian couple living in Brooklyn, marital complications arise out of their inability to conceive a child. The problem devastates their family and defies cultural expectations, leading Adenike to make a shocking decision that could either save her family or destroy it. Dosunmu captures the nuances of this unique and fascinating culture by creating a beautiful, vibrant, and moving portrait of a couple whose joys and struggles are at once intimate and universal. The film also stars Yaya Decosta Alafia (THE KIDS ARE ALRIGHT) and Tony Okungbowa (The Ellen DeGeneres Show).

The film was written by Darci Picoult, and produced by Lars Knudsen and Jay Van Hoy of Parts & Labor (COLD WEATHER, BEGINNERS, AIN'T THEM BODIES SAINTS) and Matt Parker & Carly Hugo (RESTLESS CITY, HIGHER GROUND) along with Picoult, Chris Maybach, Saemi Kim and Okungbowa. Executive producers on the film are: Saerom Kim of Maybach Film Productions; Ron Simons of SimonSays Entertainment; Jerry Tankersley, Laura Bernieri & Joseph Sorrentino of Fried Alligator Films and Rhea Scott & Fady Salamé.

LA PRESS SCREENING INFO:

Tuesday, August 20th at 7:00pm

Wilshire Screening Room

(8670 Wilshire Blvd in Beverly Hills)

Parking is underneath the building

Distributor: Oscilloscope Laboratories

Genre: Drama

Director: Andrew Dosunmu

Writer: Darci Picoult

Starring: Danai Gurira, Isaach De Bankole, Yaya DaCosta Alafia, Tony Okungbowa, Bukky Ajayi, Angelique Kidjo

Running Time: 107 Minutes

Release Date: September 20th, 2013 (Los Angeles) and September 13th, 2013 (New York)

DRINKING BUDDIES

WILL OPEN IN LOS ANGELES

ON FRIDAY, AUGUST 30TH

AT THE NUART THEATRE

*DRINKING BUDDIES will also open in New York on August 23rd and is currently available on VOD/Digital Platforms.

A FILM BY JOE SWANBERG

STARRING

OLIVIA WILDE, JAKE JOHNSON, ANNA KENDRICK AND RON LIVINGSTON

Kate (Olivia Wilde) and Luke (Jake Johnson) work together at a craft brewery. They have one of those friendships that feels like it could be something more. But Kate is with Chris (Ron Livingston), and Luke is with Jill (Anna Kendrick). And Jill wants to know if Luke is ready to talk about marriage. The answer to that question becomes crystal clear when Luke and Kate unexpectedly find themselves alone for a weekend. DRINKING BUDDIES is written and directed by Joe Swanberg and stars Olivia Wilde, Jake Johnson, Anna Kendrick, and Ron Livingston.

Distributor: Magnolia Pictures

Cast: Olivia Wilde, Jake Johnson, Anna Kendrick and Ron Livingston

Director: Joe Swanberg

Running Time: 90 Minutes

Release Date: July 25th on VOD and August 23rd in New York and August 30th in Los Angeles

GOOD OL' FREDA

Opening in Los Angeles and on VOD and iTunes on September 6

** Official Selection - 2013 SXSW Film Festival- World Premiere **

** Winner, Best Film - 2013 Cleveland International Film Festival**

**Official Selection - 2013 Nashville Film Festival**

** Official Selection - 2013 Dallas International Film Festival**

** Official Selection - 2013 Atlanta Film Festival**

**Official Selection - 2013 hotDOCS (Canadian International Documentary Festival) **

**Official Selection - 2013 San Francisco International Film Festival**

**Official Selection - 2013 Boston Independent Film Festival**

**Official Selection - 2013 Maryland Film Festival**

**Official Selection - 2013 Full Frame Documentary Film Festival**

**Official Selection - 2013 Sarasota Film Festival**

**Official Selection - 2013 DOXA Documentary Film Festival**

**Official Selection - 2013 Nantucket Film Festival**

**Official Selection - 2013 Berkshire International Film Festival**

**Official Selection - 2013 Martha's Vineyard Film + Music Festival**

On behalf of Magnolia Pictures you and a guest are invited to a press screening of the new documentary GOOD OL' FREDA, directed and co-produced by Ryan White (Pelada, Perry v. Schwarzenegger) and co-produced by award-winning photographer Kathy McCabe who initiated and engineered the production of GOOD OL' FREDA.

Magnolia Pictures will release GOOD OL' FREDA in theatres on September 6 (same day as VOD and iTunes).

Freda Kelly was just a shy Liverpudlian teenager when she was asked to work for a local band hoping to make it big. Though she had no concept of how far they would go, Freda had faith in The Beatles from the beginning, and The Beatles had faith in her.

History notes that The Beatles were together for 10 years, but Freda worked for them for 11. Many people came in and out of the band's circle as they grew to international stardom, but Freda remained a staple because of her unfaltering loyalty and dedication. As the Beatles' devoted secretary and friend, Freda was there as history unfolded; she was witness to the evolution - advances and setbacks, breakthroughs and challenges - of the greatest band in history.

In GOOD OL' FREDA, Freda tells her stories for the first time in 50 years. One of few films with the support of the living Beatles and featuring original Beatles music, the film offers an insider perspective on the beloved band that changed the music industry.

The film includes the following songs:

Arthur Alexander - Anna

The Beatles - I Saw Her Standing There

Ketty Lester - Love Letters

The Isley Brothers - Twist and Shout

The Beatles - Love Me Do

Fats Domino - I'm Ready

Buddy Holly - Words of Love

The Drifters - Some Kind of Wonderful

The Marvelettes - Please Mr. Postman

The Beatles - I Feel Fine

The Shirelles - Boys

The Cookies - Chains

Carl Perkins - Honey Don't

Little Richard - Long Tall Sally

The Beatles - I Will

Running Time: 86 minutes

Language: English

Rating: Unrated

Publicity Materials: http://www.magpictures.com/goodolfreda/

PRESS SCREENINGS:

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 14

5:00PM

Wilshire Screening Room

8670 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 122

Beverly Hills, CA 90211

MONDAY, AUGUST 26

3:00PM

The Dick Clark Screening Room

2900 Olympic Blvd.

Santa Monica, CA 90404

Validated Parking

BLOOD BROTHER

trt: 92 minutes

Directed by: Steve Hoover

Distributor: BLOOD BROTHER, llc andTUGG, Inc.

NY Theatrical Date: October 18, 2013 (Village East)

LA Theatrical Date: October 25, 2013 (Laemmle Royal)

National roll out to follow.

VIEW TRAILER:

http://www.bloodbrotherfilm.com/

PRESS RELEASE (film distribution announcement):

https://www.yousendit.com/download/bWJxT201Y3lrUm0wYjhUQw

SYNOPSIS:

Rocky went to India as a disillusioned tourist. When he met a group of children with HIV, he decided to stay and devote his life to them. This unmistakable power of love is celebrated in this story of one man’s decision to move to India and restart his life among the dispossessed.

“Rocky Anna” (as the children living at an orphanage for those infected with HIV call him which means ‘brother’) was dissatisfied with his life in America. Having grown up without a close-knit family of his own, he found his calling living and working with kids in need. Unlike others who simply passed through their lives, Rocky stayed, dedicating himself to their health and well-being. Despite formidable challenges, his playful spirit and determination in the face of despair proves to be an invaluable resource.

BLOOD BROTHER – a documentary feature directed by Rocky’s longtime friend Steve Hoover traces Rocky’s story of working in the village of Tamil Nadu, India since five years to present. The film illustrates his commitment to the children and their families who face life and death situations on a daily basis.

INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITY:

Steve Hoover (director), Rocky Braat (docu. subject), Danny Yourd (producer)

SCREENERS:

AVailable upon editorial request. Please indicate if you're requesting for review purposes only, or if you're considering feature/interview coverage.

ELLEN DEGENERES RETURNS TO HOST THE OSCARS®

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – Television icon Ellen DeGeneres will return to host the Oscars® for a second time, producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today. The Academy Awards® will be broadcast live on Oscar Sunday, March 2, 2014, on the ABC Television Network.

"We are thrilled to have Ellen DeGeneres host the Oscars," said Zadan and Meron. "As a longtime friend, we had always hoped to find a project for us to do together and nothing could be more exciting than teaming up to do the Oscars. There are few stars today who have Ellen's gift for comedy, with her great warmth and humanity. She is beloved everywhere and we expect that the audience at the Dolby Theatre, and in homes around the globe, will be as excited by this news as we are."

"I am so excited to be hosting the Oscars for the second time. You know what they say - the third time's the charm," said DeGeneres.

"I agreed with Craig and Neil immediately that Ellen is the ideal host for this year's show," said Cheryl Boone Isaacs, Academy President. "We're looking forward to an entertaining, engaging and fun show."

"Ellen is talented, wonderfully spontaneous, and knows how to entertain a worldwide audience," said Dawn Hudson, Academy CEO. "She's a big fan of the Oscars; we're huge fans of hers. It's a perfect match."

"It is an honor to welcome back Ellen DeGeneres as the host of the biggest entertainment celebration of the year," said Paul Lee, president, ABC Entertainment Group. "She is the consummate entertainer, equally beloved by her peers in the industry, movie fans and television viewers. We very much look forward to having her back on ABC for Oscar Sunday."

DeGeneres hosted the 79th Academy Awards in 2007, for which she received a Primetime Emmy® nomination for "Outstanding Individual Performance in a Variety or Music Program."

DeGeneres has made a home for herself in daytime with her hit syndicated talk show, "The Ellen DeGeneres Show," which has earned a total of 45 Daytime Emmys during its 10 seasons.

DeGeneres' began her career as an emcee at a local comedy club in her hometown of New Orleans. Her acting career in television included roles in several successful sitcoms before being offered a part on "These Friends of Mine" by ABC. After the first season, the show was renamed "Ellen." Running from 1994 to 1998, the show garnered record ratings, with DeGeneres receiving Emmy nominations each season in the Best Actress category. In 1997, DeGeneres was the recipient of the coveted Peabody Award as well as earning an Emmy for writing the critically acclaimed "Puppy Episode" when her character came out as a gay woman to a record 46 million viewers.

DeGeneres has also been successful in her feature film work. DeGeneres scored unprecedented popular and critical response to her character, Dory, the fish with extreme short-term memory, in the blockbuster Pixar animated feature "Finding Nemo." DeGeneres recently announced the highly anticipated sequel to "Finding Nemo," Disney-Pixar's "Finding Dory," currently scheduled to be released in November 2015.

Academy Awards for outstanding film achievements of 2013 will be presented on Oscar® Sunday, March 2, 2014, at the Dolby Theatre® at Hollywood & Highland Center® and televised live on the ABC Television Network. The presentation also will be televised live in more than 225 countries and territories worldwide.

PRODUCERS DISTRIBUTION AGENCY TO RELEASE “ESCAPE FROM TOMORROW”

Provocative Sundance Film To Hit Theaters and VOD This Fall

PDA’s Follow Up To EXIT THROUGH THE GIFT SHOP, SENNA, BROOKLYN CASTLE and THE WAY

(New York, NY) August 19, 2013 –Producers Distribution Agency (PDA) announced today it will be releasing Randy Moore’s directorial debut ESCAPE FROM TOMORROW in the U.S. this fall, in partnership with Abramorama and digital entertainment curator FilmBuff.

ESCAPE FROM TOMORROW, a bold and ingenious trip into the happiest place on earth, was one of the most provocative films to premiere at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival. Drew McWeeny from Hitfix called it a “surrealist treat” adding “it is not possible this film exists.”

PDA is an alternative theatrical distribution model best known as the company behind the Academy Award® nominated documentary EXIT THROUGH THE GIFT SHOP.

An epic battle begins when a middle-aged American husband and father of two learns that he has lost his job. Keeping the news from his nagging wife and wound-up children, he packs up the family and embarks on a full day of park hopping amid enchanted castles and fairytale princesses. Soon, the manufactured mirth of the fantasy land around him begins to haunt his subconscious. An idyllic family vacation quickly unravels into a surrealist and darkly comic nightmare of paranoid visions, bizarre encounters, and an obsessive pursuit of a pair of sexy teenage Parisians. Chillingly shot in black and white, ESCAPE FROM TOMORROW dissects the mythology of artificial perfection while subversively attacking our culture's obsession with mass entertainment.

ESCAPE FROM TOMORROW will be released theatrically in select cities across the country beginning October 11th at the IFC Center in New York. The film will also be available via FilmBuff on VOD day and date with its US theatrical release on all leading On Demand platforms including iTunes, Amazon Instant Video, Cable Movies On Demand, YouTube, XBOX, Sony Playstation, Cinemanow and Vudu.

ESCAPE FROM TOMORROW was produced by Soojin Chung and Gioia Marchese. Chung also edited the film. Lucas Lee Graham served as cinematographer.

***

About Producers Distribution Agency

Producers Distribution Agency was founded in 2010 to offer an alternative theatrical distribution model for unique films in a constantly changing marketplace.

PDA's initial distribution effort, the Banksy street-art documentary EXIT THROUGH THE GIFT SHOP, was both a commercial and critical success. The film is one of the top-grossing documentaries of all time, was nominated for an Academy Award® for Best Documentary Feature, won the Independent Spirit Award for Best Documentary, and received numerous other awards, including a BAFTA.

PDA's other documentary releases to date are SENNA and BROOKLYN CASTLE. SENNA, based on the life of the Brazilian Formula One driver Ayrton Senna, won the World Cinema Documentary Audience Award at the 2011 Sundance Film Festival, as well as two BAFTAs. It is currently available on iTunes, Netflix, DVD and BluRay. BROOKLYN CASTLE was one of the most critically acclaimed films of 2012, receiving rave reviews from The New York Times, The LA Times and Salon, among others.

PDA has also released Emilio Estevez’ THE WAY, in partnership with ARC Entertainment. The film was one of the indie financial success stories of 2011, grossing nearly $4.5MM at the North American box office. THE WAY is currently available on iTunes and other digital platforms as well as DVD and BluRay.

About FilmBuff

Founded in 2007, New York-based FilmBuff is the leading distributor of incomparable digital entertainment. The company draws upon its deep relationships within the film industry to curate content that consistently informs, entertains and inspires. FilmBuff designs innovative digital strategies to supply content to all on-demand outlets. Serving as a bridge between filmmakers and audiences, FilmBuff actively engages in conversations with fellow entertainment lovers through its exclusive access, original content and unique voice. Find FilmBuff content on all cable, satellite and telco services, game consoles, online retailers, wireless platforms and hardware manufacturers worldwide. Connect with FilmBuff by visiting www.filmbuff.com and via Twitter @FilmBuff.

"JAYNE MANSFIELD'S CAR"

WILL OPEN IN LOS ANGELES ON FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 13TH

AT THE SUNDANCE CINEMAS SUNSET 5

ADDITIONAL THEATRICAL RELEASE INFO:

SEPTEMBER 13TH - AMC LOEWS VILLAGE 7 (NEW YORK)

SEPTEMBER 13ND - AMC BARRETT COMMONS 24 (ATLANTA)

SEPTEMBER 13TH - AMC GRAPEVINE MILLS (DALLAS)

SEPTEMBER 13TH - AMC GULF POINTE (HOUSTON)

SEPTEMBER 13TH - AMC ELMWOOD PALACE (NEW ORLEANS)

SEPTEMBER 13TH - AMC BARTON CREEK SQUARE 14 (AUSTIN)

SEPTEMBER 13TH - CINEMAS PALME D'OR (PALM DESERT)

SEPTEMBER 13TH - AMC FESTIVAL PLAZA (MONTGOMERY)

SEPTEMBER 13TH - WEST THEATRE (CEDARTOWN)

STARRING

Billy Bob Thornton, Robert Duvall, John Hurt, Kevin Bacon

On behalf of Anchor Bay Films, you and a guest are invited to a screening of JAYNE MANSFIELD'S CAR,directed by Academy Award® winner Billy Bob Thornton and written by Thornton & Tom Epperson (The Gift, One False Move).

The film features an ensemble cast that includes Robert Duvall, John Hurt, Billy Bob Thornton, Kevin Bacon, Robert Patrick, Ray Stevenson, Katherine LaNasa, Frances O'Connor, Shawnee Smith, Ron White, John Patrick Amedori, Marshall Allman and Irma P. Hall. Jayne Mansfield's Car is produced by Alexander Rodnyansky and Geyer Kosinski. Executive producers are Sergei Bespalov, Mark C. Manuel, James D. Brubaker and Robert Teitel, and the film is a Media Talent Group, A.R. Films and Aldamisa Entertainment presentation.

Critics are calling Jayne Mansfield's Car Thornton's best work as a writer/director since Slingblade. This story of fathers and sons, war and peace, and the turbulent time that changed America forever is set in a small Alabama town in 1969, as the death of a quirky clan's long-estranged wife and mother brings together two very different families for the funeral. But do the scars of the past hide differences that will tear them apart or expose truths that could lead to the most unexpected collisions of all?

Filled with humor and drama, Jayne Mansfield's Car offers a look at human foibles, searing memories and unshakeable family bonds.

Media Talent Group, A.R. Films and Aldamisa Entertainment Present a Geyer Kosinski/Alexander Rodnyansky Production: Jayne Mansfield's Car. The film stars Robert Duvall, John Hurt, Billy Bob Thornton, Kevin Bacon, Robert Patrick, Ray Stevenson, Katherine LaNasa, Frances O'Connor, Shawnee Smith, Ron White, John Patrick Amedori, Marshall Allman and Irma P. Hall. The executive producers are Mark C. Manuel, Sergei Bespalov, James D. Brubaker and Robert Teitel. Jayne Mansfield's Car is produced by Alexander Rodnyansky and Geyer Kosinski, and written by Billy Bob Thornton & Tom Epperson. Directed by Billy Bob Thornton and distributed by Anchor Bay Films.

Distributor: Anchor Bay Films

Genre: Drama

Director: Billy Bob Thornton

Writer: Billy Bob Thornton and Tom Epperson

Starring: Billy Bob Thornton, Robert Duvall, Kevin Bacon, John Hurt, Robert Patrick, Ray Stevenson, Kathryn LaNasa, Frances O'Connor, Shawnee Smith, Ron White, John Patrick Amedori, Marshall Allman and Irma P. Hall

Running Time: 122 Minutes

Release Date: September 13th, 2013

***PRESS SCREENING***

Wednesday, September 4th at 7:00pm

Charles Aidikoff Screening Room

(150 S. Rodeo Dr./ Beverly Hills)

Parking is underneath the building.