Director Anthony Mandler wanted to let R&B superstar take viewers 'on a journey, not a ride.'By Jayson Rodriguez
Usher in "OMG"
For a video as forward-thinking as Usher's "OMG" -- with its laser beams and light flashes -- director Anthony Mandler actually looked back for inspiration.
"The original idea was kind of Max Headroom," Mandler told MTV News, citing the animated science-fiction character from '80s British TV. "That's where it came from — the TV flickering on and there's this character. We just wanted to bring it up to date."
"Max Headroom was always in his room," he continued, "this unidentifiable room, '80s shapes. I used that for inspiration."
The formula worked: "OMG" is among the Best Male Video nominees for the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards. The clip is up against Drake's "Find Your Love," Jason Derülo's "In My Head," Eminem's "Not Afraid" and B.o.B's "Airplanes." Mandler is a multiple nominee, having also helmed Drake's video.
"OMG" is the first time Usher and Mandler — who has worked with Jay-Z, Mary J. Blige and Rihanna — collaborated on a project.
Usher said he knew the video would be a challenge and wanted to make sure the director was up to the task.
"When I first shot the song to him, I was like, 'Are you sure you're gonna be able to catch this one?' And he said, 'I got it,' " Usher explained.
"We wanted to bring Will.I.Am (the song's producer) into my world," he continued. "Obviously, the international sound and look and feel has already been set, but we wanted to do something theatrical, fun and energetic to show us working off of each other and playing off of each other as artists, but the cinematography would be artistic and incredible."
Mandler described the visuals as "Hitchcock-ian." Though the style of the shot was important to the director, he had a simpler goal in mind: to capture Usher in his element. He said the key to the clip was simply letting Usher's talent take over.
"The concept was to create a world where we put Usher in a space where he does what I think he does better than anyone else in the world, which is perform at a level and magnitude of a superstar and take us, the viewer, whether audible or visually, on a journey, not a ride," the director said. "And, in that, I wanted to create an unpredictability, so one set leads to another and another, and you never know what's gonna happen. Along the way, Usher becomes our guide. We're so focused on him, we don't notice the change. The thing is unfolding little by little, and you can't quite see far enough ahead to know what's gonna come next."
The 27th annual MTV Video Music Awards will be broadcast live from the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles on September 12. The party starts with MTV News' VMA Pre-Show at 8 p.m., followed by the main event at 9 p.m. ET. Fans can go to VMA.MTV.com (or text VMA to 97979 if they are Verizon subscribers) to vote for Best New Artist from now through September 12.
Related Artists
Usher
Monday, September 6, 2010
Usher Comes Back For His Crown: A VMA Cheat Sheet
The 'OMG' singer overcame personal drama and proved his staying power on the charts over the past year.By Mawuse Ziegbe
Usher
Photo: Brad Barket/ Getty Images
Usher has reigned as Pop & B royalty since he hit the scene as a teen crooner in the '90s. Back when his 16-year-old protégé, Justin Bieber, was still a toddler, the ATL singer was making the ladies faint with hits like "You Make Me Wanna" and "Nice & Slow." But his early success was just a prelude to the music-world domination he's achieved with club bangers and deeply personal slow jams in the years since.
Usher's divorce from Tameka Foster was the latest personal development to fueled his 2010 chart-topping album Raymond v. Raymond. Now the singer is set to perform at the MTV Video Music Awards, and his smash "OMG" will battle it out for a Moonman in three categories: Best Male Video, Best Dance Video and Best Choreography. Here's a look at how the singer's recent success has steered him toward VMA accolades:
Following the release of the divorce-themed "Papers," his more upbeat video "Hey Daddy (Daddy's Home)" premiered in January 2010. The clip followed the romantic superstar as he tried to juggle the demands of his professional and personal life.
In March, Usher talked to MTV News about incorporating that balance into Raymond Vs. Raymond. "I think this is the one time where I'm able to put it all in, emotionally and the good times — super-freaky and then also super-emotional."
So, it wasn't a big surprise that when Raymond Vs. Raymond finally landed on shelves after several delays, it landed at #1 on the Billboard 200 with over 300,000 scans during its first week.
He went from romantic to racy, busting out his signature, fluid, hip-swiveling moves in the video for "Lil Freak," featuring Nicki Minaj. The star didn't hold back in the visuals or the lyrics, which both detail a freaky rendezvous with some very game ladies. Usher revealed that this track, like many of his other hits, was inspired by real-life experiences.
The club anthem "OMG" featured Black Eyed Peas frontman Will.I.Am and revealed the R&B kingpin's more club-friendly side. The accompanying video showcased Usher's easy swagger and ever-sharp dance skills.
Raymond was such a hit that in August the singer released Versus, an extension of the smash album featuring songs like the Jay-Z collabo "Hot Tottie."
Usher, who has a history of tearing up the VMA stage, will return to the main event this year. He recently reminded his fans that live television paired with his onstage wizardry can result in some seriously unforgettable moments. "You never know what's gonna happen on an MTV VMA stage," he said. "I look forward to making it a night to remember."
The star has also made one of the most savvy moves in recent pop music history by signing teen phenom Bieber, who has gone on to induce global tween hysteria and set YouTube records.
The 27th annual MTV Video Music Awards will be broadcast live from the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles on September 12. The party starts with MTV News' VMA Pre-Show at 8 p.m., followed by the main event at 9 p.m. ET. Fans can go to VMA.MTV.com (or text VMA to 97979 if they are Verizon subscribers) to vote for Best New Artist from now through September 12.
Related Artists
Usher
Usher
Photo: Brad Barket/ Getty Images
Usher has reigned as Pop & B royalty since he hit the scene as a teen crooner in the '90s. Back when his 16-year-old protégé, Justin Bieber, was still a toddler, the ATL singer was making the ladies faint with hits like "You Make Me Wanna" and "Nice & Slow." But his early success was just a prelude to the music-world domination he's achieved with club bangers and deeply personal slow jams in the years since.
Usher's divorce from Tameka Foster was the latest personal development to fueled his 2010 chart-topping album Raymond v. Raymond. Now the singer is set to perform at the MTV Video Music Awards, and his smash "OMG" will battle it out for a Moonman in three categories: Best Male Video, Best Dance Video and Best Choreography. Here's a look at how the singer's recent success has steered him toward VMA accolades:
Following the release of the divorce-themed "Papers," his more upbeat video "Hey Daddy (Daddy's Home)" premiered in January 2010. The clip followed the romantic superstar as he tried to juggle the demands of his professional and personal life.
In March, Usher talked to MTV News about incorporating that balance into Raymond Vs. Raymond. "I think this is the one time where I'm able to put it all in, emotionally and the good times — super-freaky and then also super-emotional."
So, it wasn't a big surprise that when Raymond Vs. Raymond finally landed on shelves after several delays, it landed at #1 on the Billboard 200 with over 300,000 scans during its first week.
He went from romantic to racy, busting out his signature, fluid, hip-swiveling moves in the video for "Lil Freak," featuring Nicki Minaj. The star didn't hold back in the visuals or the lyrics, which both detail a freaky rendezvous with some very game ladies. Usher revealed that this track, like many of his other hits, was inspired by real-life experiences.
The club anthem "OMG" featured Black Eyed Peas frontman Will.I.Am and revealed the R&B kingpin's more club-friendly side. The accompanying video showcased Usher's easy swagger and ever-sharp dance skills.
Raymond was such a hit that in August the singer released Versus, an extension of the smash album featuring songs like the Jay-Z collabo "Hot Tottie."
Usher, who has a history of tearing up the VMA stage, will return to the main event this year. He recently reminded his fans that live television paired with his onstage wizardry can result in some seriously unforgettable moments. "You never know what's gonna happen on an MTV VMA stage," he said. "I look forward to making it a night to remember."
The star has also made one of the most savvy moves in recent pop music history by signing teen phenom Bieber, who has gone on to induce global tween hysteria and set YouTube records.
The 27th annual MTV Video Music Awards will be broadcast live from the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles on September 12. The party starts with MTV News' VMA Pre-Show at 8 p.m., followed by the main event at 9 p.m. ET. Fans can go to VMA.MTV.com (or text VMA to 97979 if they are Verizon subscribers) to vote for Best New Artist from now through September 12.
Related Artists
Usher
Chelsea Handler Refuses To Sing Or Dance At VMAs
'I'm not a dancer and I'm not a singer, and I don't have the kind of ass that should be mooned,' comedian says.By Gil Kaufman
Chelsea Handler
Photo: MTV News
VMA host Chelsea Handler is good at certain things, like telling cutting jokes, writing hilarious books and making her male staffers get dolled up in clothes from Madonna and Lourdes' Material Girl line.
But the "Chelsea Lately" host knows her limitations.
"I've actually watched a bunch of the VMAs from over the past few years and there was definitely a lot of singing and dancing," she told MTV News' Jim Cantiello about her first time hosting the MTV Video Music Awards, which air on Sunday, September 12 at 9 p.m. ET. "I'm not a dancer and I'm not a singer, and I don't have the kind of ass that should be mooned. I mean it's sweet, it's a sweet ass, but it's little and it's white."
Chelsea Handler
Photo: MTV News
VMA host Chelsea Handler is good at certain things, like telling cutting jokes, writing hilarious books and making her male staffers get dolled up in clothes from Madonna and Lourdes' Material Girl line.
But the "Chelsea Lately" host knows her limitations.
"I've actually watched a bunch of the VMAs from over the past few years and there was definitely a lot of singing and dancing," she told MTV News' Jim Cantiello about her first time hosting the MTV Video Music Awards, which air on Sunday, September 12 at 9 p.m. ET. "I'm not a dancer and I'm not a singer, and I don't have the kind of ass that should be mooned. I mean it's sweet, it's a sweet ass, but it's little and it's white."
Rihanna's 'Battleship' Will Join Pantheon Of Singers' First Flicks
From Madonna's 'A Certain Sacrifice' to Taylor Swift's 'Valentine's Day,' pop stars' first forays into acting have been interesting.By Eric Ditzian
Taylor Swift in "Valentine's Day"
Photo: New Line Cinema
Last February, during a swing through South Korea, Rihanna told MTV Asia that she had dreams of becoming a Hollywood superstar.
"I would love to get into comedic movies," the 22-year-old said. "As well as action. I love action. I would love to play a badass one day."
Well, a badass she very well might be, as she's signed onto "Battleship," a sci-fi action flick based on the classic board game and co-starring Taylor Kitsch and Alexander Skarsgård. Of course, this isn't the first time a celebrated singer has ditched the recording studio for the soundstage. As Rihanna boards "Battleship," she joins a long line of artists-turned-actresses. Let's take a look back at the first movie roles from some our favorite singers.
Beyoncé in "Austin Powers in Goldmember"
No disrespect to the 2001 MTV movie "Carmen: A Hip Hopera," but 2002's "Goldmember" was Beyoncé's first turn on the big screen. And what a debut it was. She essentially played herself, albeit a '70s version of herself with super high hair and a handgun, but that is exactly what Beyoncé needed. The role didn't require very much in terms of acting chops and gave her the chance to get comfortable in front of the camera. Veteran comedic talent like Mike Myers, Seth Green and Michael Caine got the laughs, while Beyoncé benefited from simply sharing the frame. "Goldmember" grossed almost $300 million worldwide, and she went on to star in the critically acclaimed "Dreamgirls" a few years later.
Madonna in "A Certain Sacrifice"
Madge's first high-profile role arrived in 1985 with "Desperately Seeking Susan," but she actually shot her first movie six years earlier. The low-budget "A Certain Sacrifice," a sex-and-violence filled story set in New York's Lower East Side, languished on the shelf for years until Madonna hit the mainstream. She actually did everything she could to prevent the film's release, but "Certain Sacrifice" eventually got a home video release. Madonna might not be proud of the flick, but it certainly didn't have a negative effect on her Hollywood career. She went on to star in a slew of glitzy productions, including "Evita," for which she won a Golden Globe in 1997.
Queen Latifah in "Jungle Fever"
Latifah signed her first record deal when she was just 17. By the time she was 21, she'd also landed a small role in Spike Lee's "Jungle Fever." She went on to meatier roles in "House Party 2" and "Juice," opposite Tupac Shakur. By the new millennium, she had an Oscar nomination for "Chicago" on her résumé and a string of starring credits to her name.
Britney Spears in "Crossroads"
At perhaps the height of her fame, Spears took on a starring role in 2002's "Crossroads," a road-trip story featuring musical interludes and the talents of Dan Aykroyd and Zoe Saldana. The film was a critical dud and a box-office disappointment, and Spears has yet to get another chance at the big screen. In recent years, she's contented herself with cameo appearances in "How I Met Your Mother."
Taylor Swift in "Valentine's Day"
The country superstar appeared as herself in 2009's "Hannah Montana: The Movie," but not until this year's hit ensemble comedy, "Valentine's Day," did Swift slip into an acting role. She played a high school student who falls for her classmate, played by none other than Taylor Lautner. No word yet what her next movie project might be, but her, "Valentine's" director Garry Marshall is gearing up for his next ensemble flick, "New Year's Eve." Ms. Swift, ya interested?
Who is your favorite musician-turned-actor? Talk about it in the comments.
Check out everything we've got on "Battleship."
For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.
Related Photos
First Movie Roles For Pop-Stars
Related Artists
Rihanna
Taylor Swift
Beyoncé
Madonna
Eve
Taylor Swift in "Valentine's Day"
Photo: New Line Cinema
Last February, during a swing through South Korea, Rihanna told MTV Asia that she had dreams of becoming a Hollywood superstar.
"I would love to get into comedic movies," the 22-year-old said. "As well as action. I love action. I would love to play a badass one day."
Well, a badass she very well might be, as she's signed onto "Battleship," a sci-fi action flick based on the classic board game and co-starring Taylor Kitsch and Alexander Skarsgård. Of course, this isn't the first time a celebrated singer has ditched the recording studio for the soundstage. As Rihanna boards "Battleship," she joins a long line of artists-turned-actresses. Let's take a look back at the first movie roles from some our favorite singers.
Beyoncé in "Austin Powers in Goldmember"
No disrespect to the 2001 MTV movie "Carmen: A Hip Hopera," but 2002's "Goldmember" was Beyoncé's first turn on the big screen. And what a debut it was. She essentially played herself, albeit a '70s version of herself with super high hair and a handgun, but that is exactly what Beyoncé needed. The role didn't require very much in terms of acting chops and gave her the chance to get comfortable in front of the camera. Veteran comedic talent like Mike Myers, Seth Green and Michael Caine got the laughs, while Beyoncé benefited from simply sharing the frame. "Goldmember" grossed almost $300 million worldwide, and she went on to star in the critically acclaimed "Dreamgirls" a few years later.
Madonna in "A Certain Sacrifice"
Madge's first high-profile role arrived in 1985 with "Desperately Seeking Susan," but she actually shot her first movie six years earlier. The low-budget "A Certain Sacrifice," a sex-and-violence filled story set in New York's Lower East Side, languished on the shelf for years until Madonna hit the mainstream. She actually did everything she could to prevent the film's release, but "Certain Sacrifice" eventually got a home video release. Madonna might not be proud of the flick, but it certainly didn't have a negative effect on her Hollywood career. She went on to star in a slew of glitzy productions, including "Evita," for which she won a Golden Globe in 1997.
Queen Latifah in "Jungle Fever"
Latifah signed her first record deal when she was just 17. By the time she was 21, she'd also landed a small role in Spike Lee's "Jungle Fever." She went on to meatier roles in "House Party 2" and "Juice," opposite Tupac Shakur. By the new millennium, she had an Oscar nomination for "Chicago" on her résumé and a string of starring credits to her name.
Britney Spears in "Crossroads"
At perhaps the height of her fame, Spears took on a starring role in 2002's "Crossroads," a road-trip story featuring musical interludes and the talents of Dan Aykroyd and Zoe Saldana. The film was a critical dud and a box-office disappointment, and Spears has yet to get another chance at the big screen. In recent years, she's contented herself with cameo appearances in "How I Met Your Mother."
Taylor Swift in "Valentine's Day"
The country superstar appeared as herself in 2009's "Hannah Montana: The Movie," but not until this year's hit ensemble comedy, "Valentine's Day," did Swift slip into an acting role. She played a high school student who falls for her classmate, played by none other than Taylor Lautner. No word yet what her next movie project might be, but her, "Valentine's" director Garry Marshall is gearing up for his next ensemble flick, "New Year's Eve." Ms. Swift, ya interested?
Who is your favorite musician-turned-actor? Talk about it in the comments.
Check out everything we've got on "Battleship."
For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.
Related Photos
First Movie Roles For Pop-Stars
Related Artists
Rihanna
Taylor Swift
Beyoncé
Madonna
Eve
PITNB Readers, 090410
Here is this week’s batch of photos sent in by Pink is the new Blog readers — Christie sends in a beautiful photo of her BFF and new hubby Mr. and Mrs. Mainville on their wedding day a few weeks ago — Cathy from Livonia, MI sends in a supercute pic of her daughter Audrey [...]
For 'The Next Three Days,' Russell Crowe Pulls A Gun In MTV's Fall Preview
MTV's Fall Preview week of exclusives continues today with a look at the hottest upcoming movies of the next four months. We know what you should see and why you should see it, and we've got it all right here. Keep it locked to MTV News and MTV Movies Blog for continued updates throughout the [...]
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Kanye West Premieres 'Devil In A New Dress'
The MC's 'G.O.O.D. Friday' initiative rolls on with his second song.By Mawuse Ziegbe
Kanye West
Photo: Dominique Charriau/WireImage
Kanye West has had a busy morning.
Just before doling out a series of Twitter missives apologizing to Taylor Swift for his VMA rant, the Chicago MC dropped a new song, "Devil in a New Dress," on his KanyeUniversecity blog on Saturday (September 4). The track is the second song in his "G.O.O.D. Friday" series, in which the superstar promised to release a spankin' new song to kick off the weekend every Friday until Christmas.
"Dress" continues 'Ye's return to the soulful old-school sounds he championed in his early work and has revisited in the string-laden Beyoncé and Charlie Wilson collabo "See Me Now." West works an easy flow over the midtempo joint replete with feathery falsetto backing vocals an overall buttery '70s feel. Despite the laidback groove, West shows his vulnerable side, as he laments being loved and left. "How she gon' wake up/And not love me no more/I thought I was the a--hole/I guess it's rubbin' off," 'Ye rhymes.
The plaintive, lovelorn song is the complete opposite of the aggressive posse cut, "Monster," that West dropped last Friday. The track boasts a number of beastly features from Rick Ross, Jay-Z and Nicki Minaj and is slated to appear on West and Hov's upcoming joint album Watch the Throne.
For the most part, Yeezy fans were feeling the rapper and producer's vintage sonic textures and candid lyricism.
"Love this song. Love G.O.O.D. Fridays. Thanks for blessing us with this song Kanye," Souldigga wrote on West's blog. "It's sick."
Another fan said the throwback vibe is reminiscent of Queens MC Nas' debut.
"Classic feeling, like the 1st time I PLAYED [Illmatic]," 212aben804 wrote. "Very much needed."
"OMFG Kanye," Surgical702 gushed. "This is seriously the best song of yours I've heard in awhile."
The MC explained that he released "Dress" just in time for fans to ride out the end of the season to the song's languid feel.
"There's only 18 days of summer left," West tweeted. "I had to drop DEVIL IN A NEW DRESS while it was still hot out so people could [roll] down [their] windows."
How do you feel about Kanye West's latest song "Devil in a New Dress"? Let us know in the comments below!
Related Artists
Kanye West
Kanye West
Photo: Dominique Charriau/WireImage
Kanye West has had a busy morning.
Just before doling out a series of Twitter missives apologizing to Taylor Swift for his VMA rant, the Chicago MC dropped a new song, "Devil in a New Dress," on his KanyeUniversecity blog on Saturday (September 4). The track is the second song in his "G.O.O.D. Friday" series, in which the superstar promised to release a spankin' new song to kick off the weekend every Friday until Christmas.
"Dress" continues 'Ye's return to the soulful old-school sounds he championed in his early work and has revisited in the string-laden Beyoncé and Charlie Wilson collabo "See Me Now." West works an easy flow over the midtempo joint replete with feathery falsetto backing vocals an overall buttery '70s feel. Despite the laidback groove, West shows his vulnerable side, as he laments being loved and left. "How she gon' wake up/And not love me no more/I thought I was the a--hole/I guess it's rubbin' off," 'Ye rhymes.
The plaintive, lovelorn song is the complete opposite of the aggressive posse cut, "Monster," that West dropped last Friday. The track boasts a number of beastly features from Rick Ross, Jay-Z and Nicki Minaj and is slated to appear on West and Hov's upcoming joint album Watch the Throne.
For the most part, Yeezy fans were feeling the rapper and producer's vintage sonic textures and candid lyricism.
"Love this song. Love G.O.O.D. Fridays. Thanks for blessing us with this song Kanye," Souldigga wrote on West's blog. "It's sick."
Another fan said the throwback vibe is reminiscent of Queens MC Nas' debut.
"Classic feeling, like the 1st time I PLAYED [Illmatic]," 212aben804 wrote. "Very much needed."
"OMFG Kanye," Surgical702 gushed. "This is seriously the best song of yours I've heard in awhile."
The MC explained that he released "Dress" just in time for fans to ride out the end of the season to the song's languid feel.
"There's only 18 days of summer left," West tweeted. "I had to drop DEVIL IN A NEW DRESS while it was still hot out so people could [roll] down [their] windows."
How do you feel about Kanye West's latest song "Devil in a New Dress"? Let us know in the comments below!
Related Artists
Kanye West
Lady Gaga Shows Up At Eminem, Jay-Z Detroit Show
Pop star makes appearance at historic hip-hop concert.By Mawuse Ziegbe
Lady Gaga and Eminem (file)
Photo: Christopher Polk/ Getty Images
The stars definitely came out for Eminem and Jay-Z.
The hip-hop heavyweights brought big-name guests like Dr. Dre, 50 Cent and Drake onstage during their two-night Home and Home Tour run at Detroit's Comerica Park. One megastar didn't hit the stage but did show support during the duo's final Motor City show: Lady Gaga.
According to The Detroit News, the pop sensation, who was in town for her own Monster Ball Tour date on Saturday (September 4), checked out the show from a raised platform in the middle of the arena. Decked out in a silver miniskirt and sporting sable-colored locks, the native New Yorker grooved to Jigga and Alicia Keys' smash "Empire State of Mind." Gaga even threw up the Roc-A-Fella diamond when Hov ripped The Blueprint album cut "U Don't Know." Rap-Up.com reports the singer sipped from a plastic cup throughout the show, and took in Jay's set for about an hour before retreating backstage.
There's a good chance that Gaga and Em will cross paths during another major show: the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards. The hitmakers have corralled the most Moonmen nods, with Gaga landing a record-shattering 13 nominations and Eminem scoring eight. The pop supernova's "Bad Romance" and the chart-topping MC's "Not Afraid" will also face off in the coveted Video of the Year category
After pulling off a slew of all-star guest appearances and shutting things down with two triumphant high-energy D-Town shows, Em will hit the stage at the VMAs, which will be broadcast live from Los Angeles on September 12.
Did you see Jay-Z and Eminem in concert? Let us know in the comments below!
Related Videos
Detroit Goes Wild For Jay-Z And Eminem Landmark Show
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Jay-Z And Eminem Make History In Detroit
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Lady Gaga
Eminem
Jay-Z
Lady Gaga and Eminem (file)
Photo: Christopher Polk/ Getty Images
The stars definitely came out for Eminem and Jay-Z.
The hip-hop heavyweights brought big-name guests like Dr. Dre, 50 Cent and Drake onstage during their two-night Home and Home Tour run at Detroit's Comerica Park. One megastar didn't hit the stage but did show support during the duo's final Motor City show: Lady Gaga.
According to The Detroit News, the pop sensation, who was in town for her own Monster Ball Tour date on Saturday (September 4), checked out the show from a raised platform in the middle of the arena. Decked out in a silver miniskirt and sporting sable-colored locks, the native New Yorker grooved to Jigga and Alicia Keys' smash "Empire State of Mind." Gaga even threw up the Roc-A-Fella diamond when Hov ripped The Blueprint album cut "U Don't Know." Rap-Up.com reports the singer sipped from a plastic cup throughout the show, and took in Jay's set for about an hour before retreating backstage.
There's a good chance that Gaga and Em will cross paths during another major show: the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards. The hitmakers have corralled the most Moonmen nods, with Gaga landing a record-shattering 13 nominations and Eminem scoring eight. The pop supernova's "Bad Romance" and the chart-topping MC's "Not Afraid" will also face off in the coveted Video of the Year category
After pulling off a slew of all-star guest appearances and shutting things down with two triumphant high-energy D-Town shows, Em will hit the stage at the VMAs, which will be broadcast live from Los Angeles on September 12.
Did you see Jay-Z and Eminem in concert? Let us know in the comments below!
Related Videos
Detroit Goes Wild For Jay-Z And Eminem Landmark Show
Related Photos
Jay-Z And Eminem Make History In Detroit
Related Artists
Lady Gaga
Eminem
Jay-Z
Thalía Thandie Newton The Avatars of Second Life The Pussycat Dolls
Photos | Family & Friends Say Goodbye To Michael Jackson
Family & Friends Say Goodbye To Michael Jackson
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Photos | Drake, Nicki Minaj, Usher And More At Hot 97 2010 Summer Jam
Drake, Nicki Minaj, Usher And More At Hot 97 2010 Summer Jam
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Les News, 090510
Ne-Yo believes that T.I. makes poor decisions. The knife-wielding dude who tried to break into Paris Hilton‘s home pleads Not Guilty. Peace the Spork Out goes to Paste magazine. Yoko Ono reveals that she still gets a little help from her late husband John Lennon. Snoop Dogg songs are coming to Rock Band. Mel B. [...]
Lady Gaga Poses As Lady Liberty On Magazine Cover
Pop star poses alongside Marc Jacobs for the New York issue of V Magazine.By James Dinh
Lady Gaga on the cover of <i>V Magazine</i>
Photo: V Magazine, LLC
As evidenced by her recent well-publicized attendance at a Mets game and her glorious Madison Square Garden show, Lady Gaga has always repped for her hometown of New York City. So it's no surprise that Gaga is paying tribute to the Big Apple by posing as the Statue of Liberty alongside fashion guru Marc Jacobs on the fall cover of V Magazine.
Posing with Jacobs, a shopping cart and an old TV set, Gaga stands with her mouth slightly open in a black lace bra and panties with a gray dress sliding off her body. With her toned abs and her hair shaped into a crown, the pop star is holding a burning torch, mimicking the New York landmark. And while Gaga does her best impression of the neoclassical sculpture, Jacobs remains serious and firm, sitting on top of the television in a traditional black-and-white suit. In another photo, the singer is seen crouched in the carriage as she's pushed around by the fashion designer with her torch held high. Just last year, the singer appeared on the fall issue of the magazine donning Jacobs-designed pieces.
In the issue, which is on sale now, V Magazine highlights some of New York's most profound figures, people they say "are making the city their own way."
Editor Stephen Gan revealed that he chose the pop star because her representative values parallel those of the magazine. "Just as the Statue of Liberty was France's gift to America, Gaga is, to us, New York's greatest gift to pop culture and fashion," he said in a statement. "She embodies everything V is about, and is also a beacon of the city's creativity and hope. Exactly one year after her first V cover (the first fashion magazine cover she was on), we decided to do the NEW YORK issue, and she was the first person who came to mind to represent our great city."
Gan declared Gaga "a bonafide genius" and credited her as V Magazine's "muse" of inspiration. "Above all, a New York issue should celebrate people who've done great things. We at V are grateful Gaga came along to put the New back in New York!" he concluded.
But the singer doesn't always leave fashion editors with the best impression. Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour spoke about the pop star during her stop at "Late Night With Jimmy Fallon" on Wednesday.
"We had Lady Gaga this year," she said of the singer's performance at this year's Metropolitan Museum Costume Institute Gala. "She was communing with God and she was praying in the back, waiting for God to tell her it was all right to actually go onstage." Wintour chuckled before revealing that Gaga left the audience waiting for more than 40 minutes.
To learn more about Lady Gaga's crazy road to fashion icon, watch "VMAs: Revealed Saturday at 11 a.m. on MTV.
What do you think of Lady Gaga's Statue of Liberty-inspired cover? Sound off below!
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Lady Gaga on the cover of <i>V Magazine</i>
Photo: V Magazine, LLC
As evidenced by her recent well-publicized attendance at a Mets game and her glorious Madison Square Garden show, Lady Gaga has always repped for her hometown of New York City. So it's no surprise that Gaga is paying tribute to the Big Apple by posing as the Statue of Liberty alongside fashion guru Marc Jacobs on the fall cover of V Magazine.
Posing with Jacobs, a shopping cart and an old TV set, Gaga stands with her mouth slightly open in a black lace bra and panties with a gray dress sliding off her body. With her toned abs and her hair shaped into a crown, the pop star is holding a burning torch, mimicking the New York landmark. And while Gaga does her best impression of the neoclassical sculpture, Jacobs remains serious and firm, sitting on top of the television in a traditional black-and-white suit. In another photo, the singer is seen crouched in the carriage as she's pushed around by the fashion designer with her torch held high. Just last year, the singer appeared on the fall issue of the magazine donning Jacobs-designed pieces.
In the issue, which is on sale now, V Magazine highlights some of New York's most profound figures, people they say "are making the city their own way."
Editor Stephen Gan revealed that he chose the pop star because her representative values parallel those of the magazine. "Just as the Statue of Liberty was France's gift to America, Gaga is, to us, New York's greatest gift to pop culture and fashion," he said in a statement. "She embodies everything V is about, and is also a beacon of the city's creativity and hope. Exactly one year after her first V cover (the first fashion magazine cover she was on), we decided to do the NEW YORK issue, and she was the first person who came to mind to represent our great city."
Gan declared Gaga "a bonafide genius" and credited her as V Magazine's "muse" of inspiration. "Above all, a New York issue should celebrate people who've done great things. We at V are grateful Gaga came along to put the New back in New York!" he concluded.
But the singer doesn't always leave fashion editors with the best impression. Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour spoke about the pop star during her stop at "Late Night With Jimmy Fallon" on Wednesday.
"We had Lady Gaga this year," she said of the singer's performance at this year's Metropolitan Museum Costume Institute Gala. "She was communing with God and she was praying in the back, waiting for God to tell her it was all right to actually go onstage." Wintour chuckled before revealing that Gaga left the audience waiting for more than 40 minutes.
To learn more about Lady Gaga's crazy road to fashion icon, watch "VMAs: Revealed Saturday at 11 a.m. on MTV.
What do you think of Lady Gaga's Statue of Liberty-inspired cover? Sound off below!
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Sarah Silverman Sarah Wynter Scarlett Chorvat Scarlett Johansson
Kanye West, Justin Bieber Fans Split On 'Runaway Love' Remix
Remix featuring Raekwon has some pop and hip-hop purists on the fence.By Peter de Saint Phalle
Justin Bieber
Photo: George Pimentel/ WireImage
Kanye West forced fanbases to collide on Monday, when he released his Justin Bieber "Runaway Love" remix, which also features Raekwon.
What began as a mere social-networking brainstorm both utilizes the contemporary pop-chart topping talents of both West and the Biebs and incorporates some of Raekwon's vintage verses from "Wu-Tang Clan Ain't Nuthing Ta F--- Wit." So how do loyal fans react when a teen pop sensation, a master producer-turned-rapper and a hip-hop legend combine forces?
For the answers, we've looked across different blogs and MTVNews.com to see fan comments and reactions to the new record. While the remix seemed acceptable to most listeners, others thought the blend of Bieber with the two MCs went together like oil and water.
McShanful wrote on the hip-hop blog 2dopeboyz.com: "I thought this turned out pretty dope. But judging by the comments, this remix is a fail because Wu-Tang fans don't want to hear JB on a classic beat. And JB fans don't know or even care who Raekwon is, nor do they appreciate this classic beat. Nice try, 'Ye."
Readers on both pop and hip-hop websites couldn't see the benefit of including Bieber's song in the collaboration, stating that the current prince of bubblegum pop discredited the rappers' integrity.
"I'm a hard-core fan of Kanye's earlier music, but now I honestly think he will do anything if it gives him some fraction of publicity or money," Leni wrote on JustJared.com. "Justin Bieber? I mean really?"
Legacye wrote on on PerezHilton.com: "Oh ... dear ... lord. That was awful. Kanye's part of the track sounded fine, but Justin's music is just TOO tweeny-pop to fit in well with adult R and B. 1/5 from me."
And though Bieber's collaboration with Ludacris on "Baby" has been a huge hit with his followers, some were less than pleased by this much this harder-edged track.
"OMG !! That is just horrible," KT wrote on on Popeater.com. "Justin is the only good thing on the song, but you have to sit thru that no talent thug mumbling and talking his way thru the verses before Justin sprinkles his magic on the song. PLEASE Justin don't team up with these no talent thug rappers because your management says so. All it shows is how much talent you have and how little talent the rappers have. No wonder they all want a piece of Justin's genius. YAYYY JUSTIN!!"
But other fans were supportive of the boundary-breaking trio.
"The song actually wasn't that bad, and as much as I hate to say it, Bieber sounded a little like Michael Jackson," Ericarbo436 wrote on MTVNews.com.
"A young youth, rockin' the gold tooth!" Börte Petrarchia wrote on PerezHilton.com. "What a great collaboration that was. I think some were uneasy about it when they first heard, but I wasn't. F--- this elitist bullsh-- about who should work with who in music. It's all about creating wonderful tracks, and this is fantastic. Kanye's back, better than ever, so I'm happy."
Rwar wrote on 2dopeboyz.com: "So good I had to post twice. Can we collectively acknowledge how important Kanye West is to music? Who else could make this happen?"
What do you think of the "Runaway Love" remix? Keep the conversation going in the comments below!
Related Artists
Kanye West
Justin Bieber
Justin Bieber
Photo: George Pimentel/ WireImage
Kanye West forced fanbases to collide on Monday, when he released his Justin Bieber "Runaway Love" remix, which also features Raekwon.
What began as a mere social-networking brainstorm both utilizes the contemporary pop-chart topping talents of both West and the Biebs and incorporates some of Raekwon's vintage verses from "Wu-Tang Clan Ain't Nuthing Ta F--- Wit." So how do loyal fans react when a teen pop sensation, a master producer-turned-rapper and a hip-hop legend combine forces?
For the answers, we've looked across different blogs and MTVNews.com to see fan comments and reactions to the new record. While the remix seemed acceptable to most listeners, others thought the blend of Bieber with the two MCs went together like oil and water.
McShanful wrote on the hip-hop blog 2dopeboyz.com: "I thought this turned out pretty dope. But judging by the comments, this remix is a fail because Wu-Tang fans don't want to hear JB on a classic beat. And JB fans don't know or even care who Raekwon is, nor do they appreciate this classic beat. Nice try, 'Ye."
Readers on both pop and hip-hop websites couldn't see the benefit of including Bieber's song in the collaboration, stating that the current prince of bubblegum pop discredited the rappers' integrity.
"I'm a hard-core fan of Kanye's earlier music, but now I honestly think he will do anything if it gives him some fraction of publicity or money," Leni wrote on JustJared.com. "Justin Bieber? I mean really?"
Legacye wrote on on PerezHilton.com: "Oh ... dear ... lord. That was awful. Kanye's part of the track sounded fine, but Justin's music is just TOO tweeny-pop to fit in well with adult R and B. 1/5 from me."
And though Bieber's collaboration with Ludacris on "Baby" has been a huge hit with his followers, some were less than pleased by this much this harder-edged track.
"OMG !! That is just horrible," KT wrote on on Popeater.com. "Justin is the only good thing on the song, but you have to sit thru that no talent thug mumbling and talking his way thru the verses before Justin sprinkles his magic on the song. PLEASE Justin don't team up with these no talent thug rappers because your management says so. All it shows is how much talent you have and how little talent the rappers have. No wonder they all want a piece of Justin's genius. YAYYY JUSTIN!!"
But other fans were supportive of the boundary-breaking trio.
"The song actually wasn't that bad, and as much as I hate to say it, Bieber sounded a little like Michael Jackson," Ericarbo436 wrote on MTVNews.com.
"A young youth, rockin' the gold tooth!" Börte Petrarchia wrote on PerezHilton.com. "What a great collaboration that was. I think some were uneasy about it when they first heard, but I wasn't. F--- this elitist bullsh-- about who should work with who in music. It's all about creating wonderful tracks, and this is fantastic. Kanye's back, better than ever, so I'm happy."
Rwar wrote on 2dopeboyz.com: "So good I had to post twice. Can we collectively acknowledge how important Kanye West is to music? Who else could make this happen?"
What do you think of the "Runaway Love" remix? Keep the conversation going in the comments below!
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Justin Bieber
Coldplay, Led Zeppelin Album Covers Featured On New British Stamps
Album art from Pink Floyd, Blur and David Bowie also included.By James Montgomery
Coldplay's new British stamps
Photo: Royal Mail
On Thursday (January 7), the U.K.'s Royal Mail unveiled a series of 10 new stamps, honoring the most iconic album covers of the past 40 years.
The albums featured in the new series are the Rolling Stones' Let It Bleed, Led Zeppelin's IV, David Bowie's The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders From Mars, Mike Oldfield's Tubular Bells, The Clash's London Calling, New Order's Power, Corruption and Lies, Primal Scream's Screamadelica, Pink Floyd's The Division Bell, Blur's Parklife and — the most recent album on to make the cut — Coldplay's A Rush of Blood to the Head.
Meant to honor "the most potent graphic images of modern times, many of which have provided a visual soundtrack to people's lives," the series is the end result of a lengthy research process by the Royal Mail, who looked through thousands of album covers by British artists before deciding on the final list. And, during a Wednesday night BBC Radio broadcast, it was revealed that the queen herself actually approved each design.
Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page — who helped design the cover for IV — was on hand to celebrate the release of the stamps and recalled the mysterious nature of the album's iconic imagery.
"Almost 40 years after the album came out, nobody knows the old man who featured on the cover, nor the artist who painted him," he said. "That sort of sums up what we wanted to achieve with the album cover, which has remained both anonymous and enigmatic at the same time."
Of course, any great honor is befitting of an equally great contest, so, on the same day the stamps were made available to the general public, Coldplay decided to give one of their Rush of Blood stamps away. In a message on their official site, the band held a contest to send one lucky fan "a letter using a Coldplay stamp, postmarked with today's issue date."
"We visited our local post office earlier today and bought some of the Coldplay stamps," the message read. "Very nice they are too."
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Coldplay's new British stamps
Photo: Royal Mail
On Thursday (January 7), the U.K.'s Royal Mail unveiled a series of 10 new stamps, honoring the most iconic album covers of the past 40 years.
The albums featured in the new series are the Rolling Stones' Let It Bleed, Led Zeppelin's IV, David Bowie's The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders From Mars, Mike Oldfield's Tubular Bells, The Clash's London Calling, New Order's Power, Corruption and Lies, Primal Scream's Screamadelica, Pink Floyd's The Division Bell, Blur's Parklife and — the most recent album on to make the cut — Coldplay's A Rush of Blood to the Head.
Meant to honor "the most potent graphic images of modern times, many of which have provided a visual soundtrack to people's lives," the series is the end result of a lengthy research process by the Royal Mail, who looked through thousands of album covers by British artists before deciding on the final list. And, during a Wednesday night BBC Radio broadcast, it was revealed that the queen herself actually approved each design.
Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page — who helped design the cover for IV — was on hand to celebrate the release of the stamps and recalled the mysterious nature of the album's iconic imagery.
"Almost 40 years after the album came out, nobody knows the old man who featured on the cover, nor the artist who painted him," he said. "That sort of sums up what we wanted to achieve with the album cover, which has remained both anonymous and enigmatic at the same time."
Of course, any great honor is befitting of an equally great contest, so, on the same day the stamps were made available to the general public, Coldplay decided to give one of their Rush of Blood stamps away. In a message on their official site, the band held a contest to send one lucky fan "a letter using a Coldplay stamp, postmarked with today's issue date."
"We visited our local post office earlier today and bought some of the Coldplay stamps," the message read. "Very nice they are too."
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Photos | Rihanna and Ke$ha Perform At Madison Square Garden
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Michael Jackson - The Way You Make Me Feel
The Way You Make Me Feel
Artist: Michael Jackson
Label: Epic
Artist: Michael Jackson
Label: Epic
50 Cent Explains Photo With Jay-Z Backstage In Detroit
Fif 'got a chance to kick it' with Jay at Home and Home shows, co-headlined by Eminem.By Shaheem Reid
50 Cent and Jay-Z in Detroit Friday
Photo: Thelifefiles.com
DETROIT — You didn't think they were going to have two of the biggest hip-hop shows in the past decade without inviting 50 Cent to join in, did you? Fif and the Unit have been Eminem's special guests for the Home and Home shows, co-headlined by Jay-Z.
The Detroit run started Thursday night at Detroit's Comerica Park and concluded Friday (September 3). Sitting down with MTV News before the second show, 50, Lloyd Banks and Tony Yayo expressed their excitement to be a part of the historic event.
On Thursday, the Unit performed "Patiently Waiting," "I Get Money" and "In Da Club." And by the following morning, footage and photos from the show circulated on various websites. But thelifefiles.com caught a very unexpected gem: One of Jay's close friends, Lenny Santiago, snapped a picture of the Jiggaman and Fif talking backstage. The energy in the pic seemed to be positive, and both were smiling.
It was surprising to all hip-hop fans, considering the fact that since last year, Fif has been throwing jabs at Hov in interviews and on songs such as "Flight 187." While Fif declined to say exactly what he and Jay conversed about on Thursday, he did say they didn't have serious beef.
"We got a chance to kick it for a minute," 50 said. "I know people were interested in what that conversation was like. But they can ask Jay-Z. I take people's actions as if it's genuinely how they feel. I can only use what I saw you do as if that's what you meant. I can't understand what your motivation was prior to that."
Fif has also had some well-documented issues with Diddy. Ever since Diddy aligned himself with Rick Ross several months ago, the General of the G-Unit has publicly lambasted the leader of Dirty Money. But 50 says a recent talk with Diddy helped clear the air between them.
"I had a conversation with Puffy the night before Jay," the Queens mogul revealed. "He gave me a whole new perspective on his actions. He's like, 'I understand the way you felt because of what I was doing at the time. But I wasn't thinking what you was thinking I was. You done hit me nine times. I'm just in the fetal because I understand why you are attacking me. But if I can't touch bases with you to tell you what I'm thinking or why I did it, then you can't understand it.' We created a little clarity out there."
The Home and Home tour continues in the Bronx, New York, on September 13 and 14 at Yankee Stadium.
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50 Cent and Jay-Z in Detroit Friday
Photo: Thelifefiles.com
DETROIT — You didn't think they were going to have two of the biggest hip-hop shows in the past decade without inviting 50 Cent to join in, did you? Fif and the Unit have been Eminem's special guests for the Home and Home shows, co-headlined by Jay-Z.
The Detroit run started Thursday night at Detroit's Comerica Park and concluded Friday (September 3). Sitting down with MTV News before the second show, 50, Lloyd Banks and Tony Yayo expressed their excitement to be a part of the historic event.
On Thursday, the Unit performed "Patiently Waiting," "I Get Money" and "In Da Club." And by the following morning, footage and photos from the show circulated on various websites. But thelifefiles.com caught a very unexpected gem: One of Jay's close friends, Lenny Santiago, snapped a picture of the Jiggaman and Fif talking backstage. The energy in the pic seemed to be positive, and both were smiling.
It was surprising to all hip-hop fans, considering the fact that since last year, Fif has been throwing jabs at Hov in interviews and on songs such as "Flight 187." While Fif declined to say exactly what he and Jay conversed about on Thursday, he did say they didn't have serious beef.
"We got a chance to kick it for a minute," 50 said. "I know people were interested in what that conversation was like. But they can ask Jay-Z. I take people's actions as if it's genuinely how they feel. I can only use what I saw you do as if that's what you meant. I can't understand what your motivation was prior to that."
Fif has also had some well-documented issues with Diddy. Ever since Diddy aligned himself with Rick Ross several months ago, the General of the G-Unit has publicly lambasted the leader of Dirty Money. But 50 says a recent talk with Diddy helped clear the air between them.
"I had a conversation with Puffy the night before Jay," the Queens mogul revealed. "He gave me a whole new perspective on his actions. He's like, 'I understand the way you felt because of what I was doing at the time. But I wasn't thinking what you was thinking I was. You done hit me nine times. I'm just in the fetal because I understand why you are attacking me. But if I can't touch bases with you to tell you what I'm thinking or why I did it, then you can't understand it.' We created a little clarity out there."
The Home and Home tour continues in the Bronx, New York, on September 13 and 14 at Yankee Stadium.
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Saturday, September 4, 2010
'Social Network' Star Jesse Eisenberg Is Immune To Movie's Buzz
As he dives into other projects, Eisenberg hasn't paid attention to anticipation for this fall's Facebook flick.By Eric Ditzian
Jesse Eisenberg and Joseph Mazzello in "The Social Network"
Photo: Sony Pictures
Jesse Eisenberg doesn't have a lot of free time at the moment. He's holed up in Grand Rapids, Michigan, filming the action/comedy "30 Minutes or Less," and when he's not on set — as happened on a recent Sunday evening — he's often writing term papers as part of the undergraduate anthropology degree he's pursuing.
Jesse Eisenberg and Joseph Mazzello in "The Social Network"
Photo: Sony Pictures
Jesse Eisenberg doesn't have a lot of free time at the moment. He's holed up in Grand Rapids, Michigan, filming the action/comedy "30 Minutes or Less," and when he's not on set — as happened on a recent Sunday evening — he's often writing term papers as part of the undergraduate anthropology degree he's pursuing.
Eminem Turns Up The Volume In Detroit
Night two of Home and Home tour with Jay-Z was even more energetic than the kickoff.By Shaheem Reid
Eminem performs in Detroit on Thursday
Photo: Kevin Mazur/ WireImage
DETROIT — By the time Eminem got to "Cinderella Man," near the bottom of his set list on Friday night, the air was filled with so much audible adoration for Slim Shady, Sam Kinison himself could have rose from the grave and screamed in your ear and you wouldn't hear it. The crowd at Comerica Park was so loud, many people had to text message the person sitting right next to them.
Once again, Eminem was treated like a pharaoh. He was the closer on a two-night stand of concerts headlined by him and Jay-Z.
Eminem performs in Detroit on Thursday
Photo: Kevin Mazur/ WireImage
DETROIT — By the time Eminem got to "Cinderella Man," near the bottom of his set list on Friday night, the air was filled with so much audible adoration for Slim Shady, Sam Kinison himself could have rose from the grave and screamed in your ear and you wouldn't hear it. The crowd at Comerica Park was so loud, many people had to text message the person sitting right next to them.
Once again, Eminem was treated like a pharaoh. He was the closer on a two-night stand of concerts headlined by him and Jay-Z.
CNNGo TV in Bangkok: What's on and when
This month CNNGo TV heads to Bangkok, where we meet a diverse cast of locals. read more
Danny Boyle Says 'The Wrestler' Inspired His '127 Hours'
Oscar-winner says he's made story of a man who can't move into an action movie.By Josh Horowitz
Danny Boyle
Photo: Jordan Strauss/WireImage
At the 81st Academy Awards in early 2008, Danny Boyle's "Slumdog Millionaire" took home eight awards, including Best Director, while Darren Aronofsky's "The Wrestler" lost both categories in which it was nominated.
But that didn't stop Boyle from wanting to emulate Aronofsky's cinematic approach for his next project. Thus, "127 Hours" follows one central character, in much the same way that "The Wrestler" focused on Mickey Rourke's damaged grappler. Boyle's new film is based on the true story of an avid outdoorsman who becomes trapped under a boulder in the wildness and is forced to saw off his own arm to escape. James Franco plays the unfortunate hiker.
The film is one that Boyle has wanted to make for years. Only after virtually sweeping the Oscars, and being inspired by Aronofsky's style, though, did he move forward with the project. As part of MTV News' Fall Movie Preview, Boyle called us to chat about how his career has changed since "Slumdog," the challenges of making a film about a man who can't move, and why "127 Hours" may not be the ideal date movie.
MTV: How are you?
Danny Boyle: Good. We're mixing "127 Hours" at Pinewood, and we've been kicked out of the big theater by "Harry Potter." We're next door in the little theater.
MTV: I guess if you're going to be kicked out by anybody, they have a big thing going on.
Boyle: They're not even here! Do you know what they do? It's a big bank holiday this weekend here in Britain, and we're working right through the weekend to get it ready, and what they do is they book the theater for months and nothing happens! It's like, "Really?"
MTV: Well, it is great to talk to you. So, you had, you know, a little bit of success with "Slumdog Millionaire." Coming off of that, why this one?
Boyle: I'd always wanted to do it. The story has an instant tension that draws everyone's attention to it. So many people remember it vaguely. But it wasn't that. I wanted to make the film and I tried to get it going. Of course, it's a tough subject, but I had a way of doing it that wasn't what you think. It would be compelling and would occupy you completely as a viewer so that the whole barrier — it's just one guy stuck in one place — that wouldn't become an issue because you'd be with him. You would be him, in effect. That was always my take on it.
Anyway, once "Slumdog" kicked off, [producer] Christian [Colson] and I thought, "This is our chance to make this." There's no other moment in our careers when we'll get a chance to make something like this, which is really a tricky prospect for any studio or financier. So we worked on it, we prepared a script, and then we had to find an actor. That's the key to this. Beyond our vision of it, you have to have someone who's not only going to share the vision but actually going to carry it much more than any film like "Slumdog" or a thriller or a big love story or anything that has a plot or the dynamics changing between two people. It's just one guy. We got Franco. He's amazing in it.
MTV: There are a couple ways to go off something like "Slumdog." Either you go with the project you've been wanting to make, or I'm sure you were offered every project under the sun.
Boyle: I don't think like that. It's such an amazing thing that happened that you have to take advantage in the right way. It's why we wanted to get ["127 Hours"] ready for Toronto, because that's where we started with "Slumdog." We wanted to take back there a film that had been made in its shadow. It's wonderful to do that, because suddenly it's not an intimidating shadow, it's liberating because it's a success that's allowed you to make something you've always wanted to make and you believe but wouldn't get made otherwise. Even though people, before they see the film, might think it a peculiar choice, but the film is really accessible. Whether they can get people into [the theater], I don't know. If you want to take a girl on a Friday and say, "What should we go and see?" it's tough to say, "It's a film about a guy who cuts his arm off. What do you think?" But once you're in there, it's a big story for everyone. It's a very universal thing.
MTV: What are the challenges for you as a filmmaker, keeping things dynamic, and the challenges for an audience? Do you imagine them feeling what Franco is feeling for the length of the movie?
Boyle: I always thought of it as the opposite of inert. Superficially, it looks inert, because he's stationary. But I'd always thought of it as an action movie. He can't move, but it's an action movie. That's what we've tried to do. I'm not going to brag now. You guys will have to decide whether we've succeeded or not, but that was the intention. I remember when we were doing "Slumdog," and Darren Aronofsky showed up with "The Wrestler." It's one of those films that you look at as a director and think, "That's it. You just follow this one actor around." It's different from his other movies, and it's different from my other movies, but I wanted to make one like that, where it's just you and an actor.
MTV: I heard you talk about the videos that the hiker, Aron Ralston, took when he was stuck, and how he changed over those few days as he became dehydrated. Was the physical transformation difficult for Mr. Franco? How do you accomplish that in the film?
Boyle: You can't, because you can't do it safely. It's not like carbohydrate loss. You hear about an actor losing weight or putting on weight for parts. You can't do that, because it happens over six days. He starts as an incredibly healthy young man and then this footage I saw by the end, when he'd been without water, the difference is shocking. It's a vanishing. The only way you could do it is through CG, and we didn't want to take that approach. We didn't want to use makeup, but so much of the film is so close. It's an intimate film. We tried to shoot in sequence to let James internally track it. We've not been able to move stuff. He was there for six days, and we'd go, "Can you move that line from day two to day four?" You can't move it, because the journey is no nuanced. He becomes completely different. He's a different person on each day. We've done it through James, rather than CG or weight loss.
MTV: What about the moment when he slowly cuts off his own arm? How long a sequence is that in the film? How much do we see and experience?
Boyle: It takes him 45 minutes in reality. It is in the film, obviously. The time it takes is respected by the filmmakers. We don't cut away, pardon the expression, and come back and it's gone. But it is cathartic, and that's the key thing. The whole idea of the film is you enter the journey with him and you don't cut away to a lot of people looking for him. It's an immersive experience, and it's cathartic when he does it because it's a relief for everyone and a triumph in some way as well.
MTV: In terms of the music, it's A.R. Rahman doing the score again after "Slumdog." Can you speak a little about what he's done?
Boyle: We've got a couple of songs, and the rest of the work is more guitar-based. Some of it is solo guitar, which felt appropriate given the nature of the story. Got a couple of wonderful songs. Free Blood ("Never Hear Surf Music Again") at the beginning, which we used for the trailer. Music has always been a big part of a movie for me, and I hope we've done another one justice we've what we've used.
From the saucy Jessica Alba in "Little Fockers" to James Franco's grueling journey in "127 Hours," the MTV Movies team is delving into the hottest flicks of fall 2010. Check back daily for exclusive clips, photos and interviews with the films' biggest stars.
Check out everything we've got on "127 Hours."
For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.
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Danny Boyle
Photo: Jordan Strauss/WireImage
At the 81st Academy Awards in early 2008, Danny Boyle's "Slumdog Millionaire" took home eight awards, including Best Director, while Darren Aronofsky's "The Wrestler" lost both categories in which it was nominated.
But that didn't stop Boyle from wanting to emulate Aronofsky's cinematic approach for his next project. Thus, "127 Hours" follows one central character, in much the same way that "The Wrestler" focused on Mickey Rourke's damaged grappler. Boyle's new film is based on the true story of an avid outdoorsman who becomes trapped under a boulder in the wildness and is forced to saw off his own arm to escape. James Franco plays the unfortunate hiker.
The film is one that Boyle has wanted to make for years. Only after virtually sweeping the Oscars, and being inspired by Aronofsky's style, though, did he move forward with the project. As part of MTV News' Fall Movie Preview, Boyle called us to chat about how his career has changed since "Slumdog," the challenges of making a film about a man who can't move, and why "127 Hours" may not be the ideal date movie.
MTV: How are you?
Danny Boyle: Good. We're mixing "127 Hours" at Pinewood, and we've been kicked out of the big theater by "Harry Potter." We're next door in the little theater.
MTV: I guess if you're going to be kicked out by anybody, they have a big thing going on.
Boyle: They're not even here! Do you know what they do? It's a big bank holiday this weekend here in Britain, and we're working right through the weekend to get it ready, and what they do is they book the theater for months and nothing happens! It's like, "Really?"
MTV: Well, it is great to talk to you. So, you had, you know, a little bit of success with "Slumdog Millionaire." Coming off of that, why this one?
Boyle: I'd always wanted to do it. The story has an instant tension that draws everyone's attention to it. So many people remember it vaguely. But it wasn't that. I wanted to make the film and I tried to get it going. Of course, it's a tough subject, but I had a way of doing it that wasn't what you think. It would be compelling and would occupy you completely as a viewer so that the whole barrier — it's just one guy stuck in one place — that wouldn't become an issue because you'd be with him. You would be him, in effect. That was always my take on it.
Anyway, once "Slumdog" kicked off, [producer] Christian [Colson] and I thought, "This is our chance to make this." There's no other moment in our careers when we'll get a chance to make something like this, which is really a tricky prospect for any studio or financier. So we worked on it, we prepared a script, and then we had to find an actor. That's the key to this. Beyond our vision of it, you have to have someone who's not only going to share the vision but actually going to carry it much more than any film like "Slumdog" or a thriller or a big love story or anything that has a plot or the dynamics changing between two people. It's just one guy. We got Franco. He's amazing in it.
MTV: There are a couple ways to go off something like "Slumdog." Either you go with the project you've been wanting to make, or I'm sure you were offered every project under the sun.
Boyle: I don't think like that. It's such an amazing thing that happened that you have to take advantage in the right way. It's why we wanted to get ["127 Hours"] ready for Toronto, because that's where we started with "Slumdog." We wanted to take back there a film that had been made in its shadow. It's wonderful to do that, because suddenly it's not an intimidating shadow, it's liberating because it's a success that's allowed you to make something you've always wanted to make and you believe but wouldn't get made otherwise. Even though people, before they see the film, might think it a peculiar choice, but the film is really accessible. Whether they can get people into [the theater], I don't know. If you want to take a girl on a Friday and say, "What should we go and see?" it's tough to say, "It's a film about a guy who cuts his arm off. What do you think?" But once you're in there, it's a big story for everyone. It's a very universal thing.
MTV: What are the challenges for you as a filmmaker, keeping things dynamic, and the challenges for an audience? Do you imagine them feeling what Franco is feeling for the length of the movie?
Boyle: I always thought of it as the opposite of inert. Superficially, it looks inert, because he's stationary. But I'd always thought of it as an action movie. He can't move, but it's an action movie. That's what we've tried to do. I'm not going to brag now. You guys will have to decide whether we've succeeded or not, but that was the intention. I remember when we were doing "Slumdog," and Darren Aronofsky showed up with "The Wrestler." It's one of those films that you look at as a director and think, "That's it. You just follow this one actor around." It's different from his other movies, and it's different from my other movies, but I wanted to make one like that, where it's just you and an actor.
MTV: I heard you talk about the videos that the hiker, Aron Ralston, took when he was stuck, and how he changed over those few days as he became dehydrated. Was the physical transformation difficult for Mr. Franco? How do you accomplish that in the film?
Boyle: You can't, because you can't do it safely. It's not like carbohydrate loss. You hear about an actor losing weight or putting on weight for parts. You can't do that, because it happens over six days. He starts as an incredibly healthy young man and then this footage I saw by the end, when he'd been without water, the difference is shocking. It's a vanishing. The only way you could do it is through CG, and we didn't want to take that approach. We didn't want to use makeup, but so much of the film is so close. It's an intimate film. We tried to shoot in sequence to let James internally track it. We've not been able to move stuff. He was there for six days, and we'd go, "Can you move that line from day two to day four?" You can't move it, because the journey is no nuanced. He becomes completely different. He's a different person on each day. We've done it through James, rather than CG or weight loss.
MTV: What about the moment when he slowly cuts off his own arm? How long a sequence is that in the film? How much do we see and experience?
Boyle: It takes him 45 minutes in reality. It is in the film, obviously. The time it takes is respected by the filmmakers. We don't cut away, pardon the expression, and come back and it's gone. But it is cathartic, and that's the key thing. The whole idea of the film is you enter the journey with him and you don't cut away to a lot of people looking for him. It's an immersive experience, and it's cathartic when he does it because it's a relief for everyone and a triumph in some way as well.
MTV: In terms of the music, it's A.R. Rahman doing the score again after "Slumdog." Can you speak a little about what he's done?
Boyle: We've got a couple of songs, and the rest of the work is more guitar-based. Some of it is solo guitar, which felt appropriate given the nature of the story. Got a couple of wonderful songs. Free Blood ("Never Hear Surf Music Again") at the beginning, which we used for the trailer. Music has always been a big part of a movie for me, and I hope we've done another one justice we've what we've used.
From the saucy Jessica Alba in "Little Fockers" to James Franco's grueling journey in "127 Hours," the MTV Movies team is delving into the hottest flicks of fall 2010. Check back daily for exclusive clips, photos and interviews with the films' biggest stars.
Check out everything we've got on "127 Hours."
For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.
Related Videos
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Justin Bieber Fans Hope To Squeeze Into His 3-D Movie At NYC Show
'I'll probably cry if I see myself,' one die-hard says of Biebs' upcoming flick, which is filming at Madison Square Garden concert.By Peter de Saint Phalle
Justin Bieber (file)
Photo: Jeffrey Ufberg/ Getty Images
NEW YORK — A sea of tween girls clad in purple flooded the steps of Madison Square Garden on Tuesday night (August 31) as Justin Bieber fans made their way into the sold-out arena.
It was no secret that the show was going to be a special one. Director John Chu previously revealed that much of the upcoming Justin Bieber 3-D movie would be filmed during the night's performance. Fans traveled far and wide with hopes of making it onscreen.
"Me and my friend drove from Virginia for five hours," Erin Sweeney told MTV News. "Since I'll see [the 3-D film] in the theaters, I'll probably cry if I see myself."
When fans were asked whether Biebs had a shot at winning Best New Artist at the upcoming VMAs, most were pretty confident in the teen dream — especially since fan voting is involved.
"Most of the fans he has are really big fans," Bailey Solomons reasoned. "So if they vote for him, they'll vote for him every single day, so he has a good chance."
Some Bieber enthusiasts proved you did not have to be between the ages of 8 and 18 to enjoy Bieber's music.
"Love has no age," Amanda Farina said when asked if she had Bieber fever. "We caught it. We heard the song on the radio, and then suddenly we bought it on iTunes, and then it was a phenomenon. It doesn't matter how old we are. We just love him."
How excited would you be to end up in Bieber's 3-D movie? Let us know in the comments!
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NEW YORK — A sea of tween girls clad in purple flooded the steps of Madison Square Garden on Tuesday night (August 31) as Justin Bieber fans made their way into the sold-out arena.
It was no secret that the show was going to be a special one. Director John Chu previously revealed that much of the upcoming Justin Bieber 3-D movie would be filmed during the night's performance. Fans traveled far and wide with hopes of making it onscreen.
"Me and my friend drove from Virginia for five hours," Erin Sweeney told MTV News. "Since I'll see [the 3-D film] in the theaters, I'll probably cry if I see myself."
When fans were asked whether Biebs had a shot at winning Best New Artist at the upcoming VMAs, most were pretty confident in the teen dream — especially since fan voting is involved.
"Most of the fans he has are really big fans," Bailey Solomons reasoned. "So if they vote for him, they'll vote for him every single day, so he has a good chance."
Some Bieber enthusiasts proved you did not have to be between the ages of 8 and 18 to enjoy Bieber's music.
"Love has no age," Amanda Farina said when asked if she had Bieber fever. "We caught it. We heard the song on the radio, and then suddenly we bought it on iTunes, and then it was a phenomenon. It doesn't matter how old we are. We just love him."
How excited would you be to end up in Bieber's 3-D movie? Let us know in the comments!
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Britney Spears Repertoire Has 'Glee' Cast Gleeking Out
'There are so many great Britney songs to choose from, how do you pick just one?' Naya Rivera asks.By Josh Wigler, with reporting by Kara Warner
"Glee" cast in the Lady Gaga-themed episode
Photo: FOX
The cast of "Glee" are used to mimicking some of the most iconic pop artists of our time, including Lady Gaga and Madonna. And when the show returns for its second season this fall, the castmembers will be gleeking out over another very special pop singer: none other than Britney Spears.
"The reason we're doing it is because so many of the kids on the show say, 'We grew up with Britney. We want to do Britney,' " show creator Ryan Murphy told MTV News about the upcoming Britney-themed episode.
The "You Drive Me Crazy" singer is already slated for a blink-and-you'll-miss-it cameo in the episode, meaning that the spotlight won't be on Spears herself. Instead, it's the adoring "Glee" cast's turn to pay tribute to one of their favorite singers, with rumors floating around that leading lady Lea Michele is set to hone in on Britney's schoolgirl days with "... Baby One More Time." And actress Heather Morris told MTV News that she wants to channel her inner "Toxic." But she's not the only castmember making requests.
"I think Kurt would sing 'Circus,' " actor Chris Colfer said when asked about the upcoming Spears-centric episode. "Just so he can wear a top hat."
Amber Riley, who plays the divalicious Mercedes Jones, laughed at Colfer's suggestion, and it's certainly hard to blame her. For her own part, Riley sees "Stronger" as a natural fit for Mercedes' boisterous, self-assured personality. "I like that song," she assessed with a nod.
Still, there are other "Glee" castmembers — like Naya Rivera, for instance — who aren't too concerned about which Britney number they end up covering. At the end of the day, there are more than enough memorable songs to go around for everybody.
"There are so many great Britney songs to choose from, how do you pick just one?" Rivera asked. "My fingers are crossed that my favorites will make the list!"
Which Britney songs would you like the "Glee" cast to perform? Tell us in the comments!
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"Glee" cast in the Lady Gaga-themed episode
Photo: FOX
The cast of "Glee" are used to mimicking some of the most iconic pop artists of our time, including Lady Gaga and Madonna. And when the show returns for its second season this fall, the castmembers will be gleeking out over another very special pop singer: none other than Britney Spears.
"The reason we're doing it is because so many of the kids on the show say, 'We grew up with Britney. We want to do Britney,' " show creator Ryan Murphy told MTV News about the upcoming Britney-themed episode.
The "You Drive Me Crazy" singer is already slated for a blink-and-you'll-miss-it cameo in the episode, meaning that the spotlight won't be on Spears herself. Instead, it's the adoring "Glee" cast's turn to pay tribute to one of their favorite singers, with rumors floating around that leading lady Lea Michele is set to hone in on Britney's schoolgirl days with "... Baby One More Time." And actress Heather Morris told MTV News that she wants to channel her inner "Toxic." But she's not the only castmember making requests.
"I think Kurt would sing 'Circus,' " actor Chris Colfer said when asked about the upcoming Spears-centric episode. "Just so he can wear a top hat."
Amber Riley, who plays the divalicious Mercedes Jones, laughed at Colfer's suggestion, and it's certainly hard to blame her. For her own part, Riley sees "Stronger" as a natural fit for Mercedes' boisterous, self-assured personality. "I like that song," she assessed with a nod.
Still, there are other "Glee" castmembers — like Naya Rivera, for instance — who aren't too concerned about which Britney number they end up covering. At the end of the day, there are more than enough memorable songs to go around for everybody.
"There are so many great Britney songs to choose from, how do you pick just one?" Rivera asked. "My fingers are crossed that my favorites will make the list!"
Which Britney songs would you like the "Glee" cast to perform? Tell us in the comments!
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Watch: Behind the Scenes of Usher's 'DJ Got Us Fallin' In Love'
ET goes on-set with Usher, who says he's back in the game to support his kids!
"If I'm going to take care of my kids, then I've got to work," the father of two says.
The singer gives a behind the scenes look at his new video, "DJ Got Us Fallin' In Love" off his new album, Versus.
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Friday, September 3, 2010
Barry Manilow 'Can't Smile Without' Music & Arts Classes in Schools
Barry Manilow has been entertaining audiences for more than 30 years, and the Grammy-winning performer credits music and arts classes he took in high school for guiding him towards his successful career. Now, schools are in jeopardy of losing these helpful classes, and Barry is asking for your help! "Because of budgetary problems around the country and [in] the schools, they're cutting music and arts classes, which just about killed me -- I don't know what I would have done without my music classes when I was growing up," Barry tells ET. "I felt, 'What can I do? I'm just one giddy singer.' So I donate money here and there and that's nice, but I thought maybe I could get the public to help do this." Barry asks that you contact your local school or even your old high school and ask them what they need: "You know they need a set of drums. You know they need a trumpet. And if you can afford it, just get them some musical instruments, and if you can't do that, go to my website, Manilow.com, and we'll tell you how to do it," he says.
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Barry Manilow 'Can't Smile Without' Music & Arts Classes in Schools
Barry Manilow has been entertaining audiences for more than 30 years, and the Grammy-winning performer credits music and arts classes he took in high school for guiding him towards his successful career. Now, schools are in jeopardy of losing these helpful classes, and Barry is asking for your help! "Because of budgetary problems around the country and [in] the schools, they're cutting music and arts classes, which just about killed me -- I don't know what I would have done without my music classes when I was growing up," Barry tells ET. "I felt, 'What can I do? I'm just one giddy singer.' So I donate money here and there and that's nice, but I thought maybe I could get the public to help do this." Barry asks that you contact your local school or even your old high school and ask them what they need: "You know they need a set of drums. You know they need a trumpet. And if you can afford it, just get them some musical instruments, and if you can't do that, go to my website, Manilow.com, and we'll tell you how to do it," he says.
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'127 Hours' Director Danny Boyle On James Franco, Amputation And Darren Aronofsky
Oscar-winner says he's made story of a man who can't move into an action movie.By Josh Horowitz
Danny Boyle
Photo: Jordan Strauss/WireImage
At the 81st Academy Awards in early 2008, Danny Boyle's "Slumdog Millionaire" took home eight awards, including Best Director, while Darren Aronofsky's "The Wrestler" lost both categories in which it was nominated.
But that didn't stop Boyle from wanting to emulate Aronofsky's cinematic approach for his next project. Thus, "127 Hours." follows one central character, in much the same way that "The Wrestler" focused on Mickey Rourke's damaged grappler. Boyle's new film is based on the true story of an avid outdoorsman who becomes trapped under a boulder in the wildness and is forced to saw off his own arm to escape. James Franco plays the unfortunate hiker.
The film is one that Boyle has wanted to make for years. Only after virtually sweeping the Oscars, and being inspired by Aronofsky's style, though, did he move forward with the project. As part of MTV News' Fall Movie Preview, Boyle called us to chat about how his career has changed since "Slumdog," the challenges of making a film about a man who can't move, and why "127 Hours" may not be the ideal date movie.
MTV: How are you?
Danny Boyle: Good. We're mixing "127 Hours" at Pinewood, and we've been kicked out of the big theater by "Harry Potter." We're next door in the little theater.
MTV: I guess if you're going to be kicked out by anybody, they have a big thing going on.
Boyle: They're not even here! Do you know what they do? It's a big bank holiday this weekend here in Britain, and we're working right through the weekend to get it ready, and what they do is they book the theater for months and nothing happens! It's like, "Really?"
MTV: Well, it is great to talk to you. So, you had, you know, a little bit of success with "Slumdog Millionaire." Coming off of that, why this one?
Boyle: I'd always wanted to do it. The story has an instant tension that draws everyone's attention to it. So many people remember it vaguely. But it wasn't that. I wanted to make the film and I tried to get it going. Of course, it's a tough subject, but I had a way of doing it that wasn't what you think. It would be compelling and would occupy you completely as a viewer so that the whole barrier — it's just one guy stuck in one place — that wouldn't become an issue because you'd be with him. You would be him, in effect. That was always my take on it. Anyway, once "Slumdog" kicked off, [producer] Christian [Colson] and I thought, "This is our chance to make this." There's no other moment in our careers when we'll get a chance to make something like this, which is really a tricky prospect for any studio or financier. So we worked on it, we prepared a script, and then we had to find an actor. That's the key to this. Beyond our vision of it, you have to have someone who's not only going to share the vision but actually going to carry it much more than any film like "Slumdog" or a thriller or a big love story or anything that has a plot or the dynamics changing between two people. It's just one guy. We got Franco. He's amazing in it.
MTV: There are a couple ways to go off something like "Slumdog." Either you go with the project you've been wanting to make, or I'm sure you were offered every project under the sun.
Boyle: I don't think like that. It's such an amazing thing that happened that you have to take advantage in the right way. It's why we wanted to get ["127 Hours"] ready for Toronto, because that's where we started with "Slumdog." We wanted to take back there a film that had been made in its shadow. It's wonderful to do that, because suddenly it's not an intimidating shadow, it's liberating because it's a success that's allowed you to make something you've always wanted to make and you believe but wouldn't get made otherwise. Even though people, before they see the film, might think it a peculiar choice, but the film is really accessible. Whether they can get people into [the theater], I don't know. If you want to take a girl on a Friday and say, "What should we go and see?" it's tough to say, "It's a film about a guy who cuts his arm off. What do you think?" But once you're in there, it's a big story for everyone. It's a very universal thing.
MTV: What are the challenges for you as a filmmaker, keeping things dynamic, and the challenges for an audience? Do you imagine them feeling what Franco is feeling for the length of the movie?
Boyle: I always thought of it as the opposite of inert. Superficially, it looks inert, because he's stationary. But I'd always thought of it as an action movie. He can't move, but it's an action movie. That's what we've tried to do. I'm not going to brag now. You guys will have to decide whether we've succeeded or not, but that was the intention. I remember when we were doing "Slumdog," and Darren Aronofsky showed up with "The Wrestler." It's one of those films that you look at as a director and think, "That's it. You just follow this one actor around." It's different from his other movies, and it's different from my other movies, but I wanted to make one like that, where it's just you and an actor.
MTV: I heard you talk about the videos that the hiker, Aron Ralston, took when he was stuck, and how he changed over those few days as he became dehydrated. Was the physical transformation difficult for Mr. Franco? How do you accomplish that in the film?
Boyle: You can't, because you can't do it safely. It's not like carbohydrate loss. You hear about an actor losing weight or putting on weight for parts. You can't do that, because it happens over six days. He starts as an incredibly healthy young man and then this footage I saw by the end, when he'd been without water, the difference is shocking. It's a vanishing. The only way you could do it is through CG, and we didn't want to take that approach. We didn't want to use makeup, but so much of the film is so close. It's an intimate film. We tried to shoot in sequence to let James internally track it. We've not been able to move stuff. He was there for six days, and we'd go, "Can you move that line from day two to day four?" You can't move it, because the journey is no nuanced. He becomes completely different. He's a different person on each day. We've done it through James, rather than CG or weight loss.
MTV: What about the moment when he slowly cuts off his own arm? How long a sequence is that in the film? How much do we see and experience?
Boyle: It takes him 45 minutes in reality. It is in the film, obviously. The time it takes is respected by the filmmakers. We don't cut away, pardon the expression, and come back and it's gone. But it is cathartic, and that's the key thing. The whole idea of the film is you enter the journey with him and you don't cut away to a lot of people looking for him. It's an immersive experience, and it's cathartic when he does it because it's a relief for everyone and a triumph in some way as well.
MTV: In terms of the music, it's A.R. Rahman doing the score again after "Slumdog." Can you speak a little about what he's done?
Boyle: We've got a couple of songs, and the rest of the work is more guitar-based. Some of it is solo guitar, which felt appropriate given the nature of the story. Got a couple of wonderful songs. Free Blood ("Never Hear Surf Music Again") at the beginning, which we used for the trailer. Music has always been a big part of a movie for me, and I hope we've done another one justice we've what we've used.
From the saucy Jessica Alba in "Little Fockers" to James Franco's grueling journey in "127 Hours," the MTV Movies team is delving into the hottest flicks of fall 2010. Check back daily for exclusive clips, photos and interviews with the films' biggest stars.
Check out everything we've got on "127 Hours."
For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.
Related Videos
MTV Rough Cut: 2010 Fall Movie Preview
Fall Movie Sneak Peeks
Exclusive Clips From The Fall's Most Anticipated Films
Related Photos
Fall Movie 2010 Preview Week: Exclusive Photos
Danny Boyle
Photo: Jordan Strauss/WireImage
At the 81st Academy Awards in early 2008, Danny Boyle's "Slumdog Millionaire" took home eight awards, including Best Director, while Darren Aronofsky's "The Wrestler" lost both categories in which it was nominated.
But that didn't stop Boyle from wanting to emulate Aronofsky's cinematic approach for his next project. Thus, "127 Hours." follows one central character, in much the same way that "The Wrestler" focused on Mickey Rourke's damaged grappler. Boyle's new film is based on the true story of an avid outdoorsman who becomes trapped under a boulder in the wildness and is forced to saw off his own arm to escape. James Franco plays the unfortunate hiker.
The film is one that Boyle has wanted to make for years. Only after virtually sweeping the Oscars, and being inspired by Aronofsky's style, though, did he move forward with the project. As part of MTV News' Fall Movie Preview, Boyle called us to chat about how his career has changed since "Slumdog," the challenges of making a film about a man who can't move, and why "127 Hours" may not be the ideal date movie.
MTV: How are you?
Danny Boyle: Good. We're mixing "127 Hours" at Pinewood, and we've been kicked out of the big theater by "Harry Potter." We're next door in the little theater.
MTV: I guess if you're going to be kicked out by anybody, they have a big thing going on.
Boyle: They're not even here! Do you know what they do? It's a big bank holiday this weekend here in Britain, and we're working right through the weekend to get it ready, and what they do is they book the theater for months and nothing happens! It's like, "Really?"
MTV: Well, it is great to talk to you. So, you had, you know, a little bit of success with "Slumdog Millionaire." Coming off of that, why this one?
Boyle: I'd always wanted to do it. The story has an instant tension that draws everyone's attention to it. So many people remember it vaguely. But it wasn't that. I wanted to make the film and I tried to get it going. Of course, it's a tough subject, but I had a way of doing it that wasn't what you think. It would be compelling and would occupy you completely as a viewer so that the whole barrier — it's just one guy stuck in one place — that wouldn't become an issue because you'd be with him. You would be him, in effect. That was always my take on it. Anyway, once "Slumdog" kicked off, [producer] Christian [Colson] and I thought, "This is our chance to make this." There's no other moment in our careers when we'll get a chance to make something like this, which is really a tricky prospect for any studio or financier. So we worked on it, we prepared a script, and then we had to find an actor. That's the key to this. Beyond our vision of it, you have to have someone who's not only going to share the vision but actually going to carry it much more than any film like "Slumdog" or a thriller or a big love story or anything that has a plot or the dynamics changing between two people. It's just one guy. We got Franco. He's amazing in it.
MTV: There are a couple ways to go off something like "Slumdog." Either you go with the project you've been wanting to make, or I'm sure you were offered every project under the sun.
Boyle: I don't think like that. It's such an amazing thing that happened that you have to take advantage in the right way. It's why we wanted to get ["127 Hours"] ready for Toronto, because that's where we started with "Slumdog." We wanted to take back there a film that had been made in its shadow. It's wonderful to do that, because suddenly it's not an intimidating shadow, it's liberating because it's a success that's allowed you to make something you've always wanted to make and you believe but wouldn't get made otherwise. Even though people, before they see the film, might think it a peculiar choice, but the film is really accessible. Whether they can get people into [the theater], I don't know. If you want to take a girl on a Friday and say, "What should we go and see?" it's tough to say, "It's a film about a guy who cuts his arm off. What do you think?" But once you're in there, it's a big story for everyone. It's a very universal thing.
MTV: What are the challenges for you as a filmmaker, keeping things dynamic, and the challenges for an audience? Do you imagine them feeling what Franco is feeling for the length of the movie?
Boyle: I always thought of it as the opposite of inert. Superficially, it looks inert, because he's stationary. But I'd always thought of it as an action movie. He can't move, but it's an action movie. That's what we've tried to do. I'm not going to brag now. You guys will have to decide whether we've succeeded or not, but that was the intention. I remember when we were doing "Slumdog," and Darren Aronofsky showed up with "The Wrestler." It's one of those films that you look at as a director and think, "That's it. You just follow this one actor around." It's different from his other movies, and it's different from my other movies, but I wanted to make one like that, where it's just you and an actor.
MTV: I heard you talk about the videos that the hiker, Aron Ralston, took when he was stuck, and how he changed over those few days as he became dehydrated. Was the physical transformation difficult for Mr. Franco? How do you accomplish that in the film?
Boyle: You can't, because you can't do it safely. It's not like carbohydrate loss. You hear about an actor losing weight or putting on weight for parts. You can't do that, because it happens over six days. He starts as an incredibly healthy young man and then this footage I saw by the end, when he'd been without water, the difference is shocking. It's a vanishing. The only way you could do it is through CG, and we didn't want to take that approach. We didn't want to use makeup, but so much of the film is so close. It's an intimate film. We tried to shoot in sequence to let James internally track it. We've not been able to move stuff. He was there for six days, and we'd go, "Can you move that line from day two to day four?" You can't move it, because the journey is no nuanced. He becomes completely different. He's a different person on each day. We've done it through James, rather than CG or weight loss.
MTV: What about the moment when he slowly cuts off his own arm? How long a sequence is that in the film? How much do we see and experience?
Boyle: It takes him 45 minutes in reality. It is in the film, obviously. The time it takes is respected by the filmmakers. We don't cut away, pardon the expression, and come back and it's gone. But it is cathartic, and that's the key thing. The whole idea of the film is you enter the journey with him and you don't cut away to a lot of people looking for him. It's an immersive experience, and it's cathartic when he does it because it's a relief for everyone and a triumph in some way as well.
MTV: In terms of the music, it's A.R. Rahman doing the score again after "Slumdog." Can you speak a little about what he's done?
Boyle: We've got a couple of songs, and the rest of the work is more guitar-based. Some of it is solo guitar, which felt appropriate given the nature of the story. Got a couple of wonderful songs. Free Blood ("Never Hear Surf Music Again") at the beginning, which we used for the trailer. Music has always been a big part of a movie for me, and I hope we've done another one justice we've what we've used.
From the saucy Jessica Alba in "Little Fockers" to James Franco's grueling journey in "127 Hours," the MTV Movies team is delving into the hottest flicks of fall 2010. Check back daily for exclusive clips, photos and interviews with the films' biggest stars.
Check out everything we've got on "127 Hours."
For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.
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Label: Warner Bros. Records, Asylum, Mizay Ent
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Album: The State vs. Radric Davis
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'The Last Exorcism' Director Enjoys Viewers' Debate Over Conclusion
Director Daniel Stamm explains the controversial ending to the #2 movie in country this week.By Adam Rosenberg
Ashley Bell in "The Last Exorcism"
Photo: Lionsgate
SPOILER WARNING: Before you read past this point, be warned: This article discusses the end of "The Last Exorcism" in depth, so stop reading if you intend to see the movie and don't want to know how it ends.
Director Daniel Stamm's mock documentary concludes on an open-ended note. As predicted earlier in the film by Nell's (Ashley Bell) paintings, the cinematographer gets his head chopped off, the producer is hacked to pieces and the preacher, Cotton (Patrick Fabian), his faith seemingly restored, walks into the flame to ward off Hell, his cross held high and his ultimate fate left unclear. That ending has spurred quite a bit of discussion among many who have seen it.
MTV News talked to Stamm about that response and his reaction to it. "I don't mind the passion that the discussion has spurred," he said. "I'm getting threats now, which is a whole new thing for me. People are [tweeting] me, telling me to jump headfirst off the Empire State Building, really hateful [comments], which I can only take as a compliment. Which movie do you care about so much that you get so hateful and so passionate about it?"
Of the dialogue that's sprung up, the director admits that he understands where the dissenters are coming from. "I think that a lot of the people that are upset by the movie [feel] that they are paying for you to enlighten their world a little bit with an answer about what's going on around them," he said. "They want a statement that is clear. That is a very legitimate position to me, but that is not what the movie does. The movie leaves you with a question. And it was very true to the format of the documentary style that you don't understand everything."
By "staying true to the documentary style," Stamm is referring specifically to the death of the camera operator in the film's final scene. "Yes, it's abrupt, because your point of view is gone, you'll never find out what happened after that. There is no scene that neatly ties it all together and explains it all to you because that's not how it would go down. I think the rest of the movie is naturalistic enough ... that it would be a complete betrayal of the movie [to tie things together]."
He appreciates that the film's conclusion has a very definable impact on the scale of the story, from an intimate gathering of concerned individuals and one troubled little girl to a community full of Devil-worshipping Satanists. "I understand that people are maybe overwhelmed by the openness of the ending, but at the same time ... I can't think of a different ending to this movie. I think it completely does it justice and I think it does the characters justice."
Check out everything we've got on "The Last Exorcism."
For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.
Ashley Bell in "The Last Exorcism"
Photo: Lionsgate
SPOILER WARNING: Before you read past this point, be warned: This article discusses the end of "The Last Exorcism" in depth, so stop reading if you intend to see the movie and don't want to know how it ends.
Director Daniel Stamm's mock documentary concludes on an open-ended note. As predicted earlier in the film by Nell's (Ashley Bell) paintings, the cinematographer gets his head chopped off, the producer is hacked to pieces and the preacher, Cotton (Patrick Fabian), his faith seemingly restored, walks into the flame to ward off Hell, his cross held high and his ultimate fate left unclear. That ending has spurred quite a bit of discussion among many who have seen it.
MTV News talked to Stamm about that response and his reaction to it. "I don't mind the passion that the discussion has spurred," he said. "I'm getting threats now, which is a whole new thing for me. People are [tweeting] me, telling me to jump headfirst off the Empire State Building, really hateful [comments], which I can only take as a compliment. Which movie do you care about so much that you get so hateful and so passionate about it?"
Of the dialogue that's sprung up, the director admits that he understands where the dissenters are coming from. "I think that a lot of the people that are upset by the movie [feel] that they are paying for you to enlighten their world a little bit with an answer about what's going on around them," he said. "They want a statement that is clear. That is a very legitimate position to me, but that is not what the movie does. The movie leaves you with a question. And it was very true to the format of the documentary style that you don't understand everything."
By "staying true to the documentary style," Stamm is referring specifically to the death of the camera operator in the film's final scene. "Yes, it's abrupt, because your point of view is gone, you'll never find out what happened after that. There is no scene that neatly ties it all together and explains it all to you because that's not how it would go down. I think the rest of the movie is naturalistic enough ... that it would be a complete betrayal of the movie [to tie things together]."
He appreciates that the film's conclusion has a very definable impact on the scale of the story, from an intimate gathering of concerned individuals and one troubled little girl to a community full of Devil-worshipping Satanists. "I understand that people are maybe overwhelmed by the openness of the ending, but at the same time ... I can't think of a different ending to this movie. I think it completely does it justice and I think it does the characters justice."
Check out everything we've got on "The Last Exorcism."
For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.
Fantasia: I Just Wanted To Be Away From the Noise
Fantasia says she was "overloaded" when she overdosed and "just wanted to be away from the noise."
Making an appearance on "Good Morning America," the "American Idol" winner reveals things are going much better after her release from the hospital.
Of her much publicized overdose, she said, "It just became heavy to me to the point I just wanted to be away from the noise." Recent claims that she broke up a relationship by having an affair with a married man took their toll on the singer, but she says it was much more that drove her to attempt suicide.
Making an appearance on "Good Morning America," the "American Idol" winner reveals things are going much better after her release from the hospital.
Of her much publicized overdose, she said, "It just became heavy to me to the point I just wanted to be away from the noise." Recent claims that she broke up a relationship by having an affair with a married man took their toll on the singer, but she says it was much more that drove her to attempt suicide.
Gabrielle Union Garcelle Beauvais Genelle Frenoy Georgianna Robertson
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Rihanna Dazzles At Sold-Out New York Show
Ke$ha gets Last Girl on Earth party started at Madison Square Garden, as Rih powers through her numerous hits.By Jocelyn Vena
Rihanna performs at Madison Square Garden on Thursday
Photo: Jamie McCarthy/ WireImage
NEW YORK -- Before Rihanna came onboard for the Last Girl on Earth tour at Madison Square Garden on Thursday night, Ke$ha, completely covered in glitter, got her personal party started with her club banger "Blah Blah Blah."
"I cannot believe I am playing a show at the f---ing Garden. Holy sh-- balls," she screamed to the crowd midway through the song. "Are you guys having a dance party?" she later asked the excited crowd.
Ke$ha's set was much like she is: sparkly, glittery, a little messy, but, overall, a good time. She played all her hits, including "Take It Off," "Your Love Is My Drug" and the song that got all of MSG dancing, "Tik Tok."
While the fans were tickled with delight for Ke$ha's set, they really went nuts when Rihanna emerged onstage in a billowing black dress, with glowing lights inlaid into it. The star was ready to share with the audience her "dreams and nightmares," as a projected video explained. The searing guitar of "Russian Roulette" welcomed the red-headed singer to the room before she belted out the ballad and kicked the show off. After a quick change into a blush-colored, shimmering bodysuit, she went right into her crowd-pleaser "Hard," during which she very proudly rode her own baby-pink military tank.
During "Disturbia," Rihanna embraced her inner Goth, thanks to dancers dressed as crow-like figures on stilts. After a short intermission, Rihanna declared her "Rockstar" status and played a little air guitar in a latex bodysuit and thigh-high boots. "Rude Boy" brought out the sassy and sexy Rihanna fans have come to love.
"Is New York City in the house?" she asked before she sang a medley of "Love the Way You Lie" and "Airplanes," and then transitioned into "Hate That I Love You." "I can't hear you, New York! Anybody out there ever been in love?" she asked. For "Rehab," she lounged sexily on a chaise.
Things got spicy when Rihanna, flanked by two dancers doing saucy acrobatics, sang her Spanish-tinged "Te Amo." Then, dressed in an all-white "bandage" bodysuit, she kicked it old-school with her jam "Don't Stop the Music," throwing a dance party inside of a large cube onstage.
After displaying her guitar skills earlier in the night, Rihanna played some drums before performing a rock-influenced version of "SOS." She then addressed the crowd: "Thanks, all of you who bought a ticket tonight to come see me. I'm at Madison Square Garden and thanks to you guys, we sold out Madison Square Garden -- thank you so much." Then she sang "Take a Bow" before, well, taking a bow.
She kicked off an encore with "Wait Your Turn," in sparkly, knee-high boots, a matching newsboy cap, bra and spandex shorts. Rihanna played her second medley of the evening, combining party jams like "Live Your Life" and "Run This Town." But she ended the night on her biggest hit, "Umbrella," and in a dizzying sea of confetti, with fans singing along, she told the crowd, "Thank you so much."
The show not only displayed her vocal abilities, but also her unabashed performance style; her world is part "Mad Max," part "Twilight" and part OK Computer -- and all Rihanna.
What did you think of Rihanna's New York show? Tell us in the comments!
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Rihanna performs at Madison Square Garden on Thursday
Photo: Jamie McCarthy/ WireImage
NEW YORK -- Before Rihanna came onboard for the Last Girl on Earth tour at Madison Square Garden on Thursday night, Ke$ha, completely covered in glitter, got her personal party started with her club banger "Blah Blah Blah."
"I cannot believe I am playing a show at the f---ing Garden. Holy sh-- balls," she screamed to the crowd midway through the song. "Are you guys having a dance party?" she later asked the excited crowd.
Ke$ha's set was much like she is: sparkly, glittery, a little messy, but, overall, a good time. She played all her hits, including "Take It Off," "Your Love Is My Drug" and the song that got all of MSG dancing, "Tik Tok."
While the fans were tickled with delight for Ke$ha's set, they really went nuts when Rihanna emerged onstage in a billowing black dress, with glowing lights inlaid into it. The star was ready to share with the audience her "dreams and nightmares," as a projected video explained. The searing guitar of "Russian Roulette" welcomed the red-headed singer to the room before she belted out the ballad and kicked the show off. After a quick change into a blush-colored, shimmering bodysuit, she went right into her crowd-pleaser "Hard," during which she very proudly rode her own baby-pink military tank.
During "Disturbia," Rihanna embraced her inner Goth, thanks to dancers dressed as crow-like figures on stilts. After a short intermission, Rihanna declared her "Rockstar" status and played a little air guitar in a latex bodysuit and thigh-high boots. "Rude Boy" brought out the sassy and sexy Rihanna fans have come to love.
"Is New York City in the house?" she asked before she sang a medley of "Love the Way You Lie" and "Airplanes," and then transitioned into "Hate That I Love You." "I can't hear you, New York! Anybody out there ever been in love?" she asked. For "Rehab," she lounged sexily on a chaise.
Things got spicy when Rihanna, flanked by two dancers doing saucy acrobatics, sang her Spanish-tinged "Te Amo." Then, dressed in an all-white "bandage" bodysuit, she kicked it old-school with her jam "Don't Stop the Music," throwing a dance party inside of a large cube onstage.
After displaying her guitar skills earlier in the night, Rihanna played some drums before performing a rock-influenced version of "SOS." She then addressed the crowd: "Thanks, all of you who bought a ticket tonight to come see me. I'm at Madison Square Garden and thanks to you guys, we sold out Madison Square Garden -- thank you so much." Then she sang "Take a Bow" before, well, taking a bow.
She kicked off an encore with "Wait Your Turn," in sparkly, knee-high boots, a matching newsboy cap, bra and spandex shorts. Rihanna played her second medley of the evening, combining party jams like "Live Your Life" and "Run This Town." But she ended the night on her biggest hit, "Umbrella," and in a dizzying sea of confetti, with fans singing along, she told the crowd, "Thank you so much."
The show not only displayed her vocal abilities, but also her unabashed performance style; her world is part "Mad Max," part "Twilight" and part OK Computer -- and all Rihanna.
What did you think of Rihanna's New York show? Tell us in the comments!
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Fantasia: I Just Wanted To Be Away From the Noise
Fantasia says she was "overloaded" when she overdosed and "just wanted to be away from the noise."
Making an appearance on "Good Morning America," the "American Idol" winner reveals things are going much better after her release from the hospital.
Of her much publicized overdose, she said, "It just became heavy to me to the point I just wanted to be away from the noise." Recent claims that she broke up a relationship by having an affair with a married man took their toll on the singer, but she says it was much more that drove her to attempt suicide.
Making an appearance on "Good Morning America," the "American Idol" winner reveals things are going much better after her release from the hospital.
Of her much publicized overdose, she said, "It just became heavy to me to the point I just wanted to be away from the noise." Recent claims that she broke up a relationship by having an affair with a married man took their toll on the singer, but she says it was much more that drove her to attempt suicide.
Unreleased Michael Jackson Music On The Way, Rodney Jerkins Says
'It's definitely going to come, but it takes time,' says producer, who worked with King of Pop on Invincible.By James Dinh
Michael Jackson
Photo: Time Life Pictures/DMI/Time Life Pictures/Getty Im
Michael Jackson had a wealth of unreleased songs in the vaults at the time of his death last year, but very little has since seen the light of day. Producer Rodney "Darkchild" Jerkins, who worked with the King of Pop on his 2001 album Invincible, revealed that he is about to work on a project with unreleased material from Jackson.
"I'm about to work on an unreleased project that we're talking about doing right now," Darkchild revealed in a chat with VladTV. "It's definitely going to come, but it takes time. You got to do a lot of the red tape but there's definitely going to be an unreleased Michael Jackson [album]. There's definitely going to be stuff to come and hopefully I'll be a part of that."
Darkchild later spoke about how working with the entertainer had always been a childhood dream of his.
"It was a blessing. It was definitely a goal of mine as a kid. When I first wanted to be producer, at 11 years old, on a little piece of paper [I] was like, 'One day I wanna work with Michael Jackson.' I just believe that God granted my wish," he said. "I had the chance to work with him. We became friends. Of course, we miss him dearly. He was truly the greatest."
Last year, former Sony Music boss Tommy Mottola revealed to Time magazine that unpublished Jackson music could date back decades. "Let's say 12 or 13 songs end up on the album; Michael could have possibly recorded 15, 20 or 30 songs," Mottola explained. "This would probably go for every album he recorded and probably predating [Sony] to his Motown days."
Jackson was reportedly working on a comeback album at the time of his death with contemporary R&B producers like Akon, Ne-Yo and Will.I.Am. He was also in talks to hit the studio with everybody from Kanye West to T-Pain to Chris Brown.
Based on a recent report from Reuters, more music from Jackson would only further increase music sales for the singer. The entertainer's music has raked in $430 million in sales since June 2009.
An album wasn't the only unfinished project Jackson had on his plate at the time of his death last June. The King of Pop had asked then-newcomer Lady Gaga to open his This Is It shows in London. "I guess I can speak about it now. I was actually asked to open for Michael on his tour. We were going to open for him at the O2," she revealed earlier this year.
Would you be excited to hear unreleased music from the King of Pop? Tell us your thoughts below!
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Photo: Time Life Pictures/DMI/Time Life Pictures/Getty Im
Michael Jackson had a wealth of unreleased songs in the vaults at the time of his death last year, but very little has since seen the light of day. Producer Rodney "Darkchild" Jerkins, who worked with the King of Pop on his 2001 album Invincible, revealed that he is about to work on a project with unreleased material from Jackson.
"I'm about to work on an unreleased project that we're talking about doing right now," Darkchild revealed in a chat with VladTV. "It's definitely going to come, but it takes time. You got to do a lot of the red tape but there's definitely going to be an unreleased Michael Jackson [album]. There's definitely going to be stuff to come and hopefully I'll be a part of that."
Darkchild later spoke about how working with the entertainer had always been a childhood dream of his.
"It was a blessing. It was definitely a goal of mine as a kid. When I first wanted to be producer, at 11 years old, on a little piece of paper [I] was like, 'One day I wanna work with Michael Jackson.' I just believe that God granted my wish," he said. "I had the chance to work with him. We became friends. Of course, we miss him dearly. He was truly the greatest."
Last year, former Sony Music boss Tommy Mottola revealed to Time magazine that unpublished Jackson music could date back decades. "Let's say 12 or 13 songs end up on the album; Michael could have possibly recorded 15, 20 or 30 songs," Mottola explained. "This would probably go for every album he recorded and probably predating [Sony] to his Motown days."
Jackson was reportedly working on a comeback album at the time of his death with contemporary R&B producers like Akon, Ne-Yo and Will.I.Am. He was also in talks to hit the studio with everybody from Kanye West to T-Pain to Chris Brown.
Based on a recent report from Reuters, more music from Jackson would only further increase music sales for the singer. The entertainer's music has raked in $430 million in sales since June 2009.
An album wasn't the only unfinished project Jackson had on his plate at the time of his death last June. The King of Pop had asked then-newcomer Lady Gaga to open his This Is It shows in London. "I guess I can speak about it now. I was actually asked to open for Michael on his tour. We were going to open for him at the O2," she revealed earlier this year.
Would you be excited to hear unreleased music from the King of Pop? Tell us your thoughts below!
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M. Night Shyamalan Explains Origins Of 'Devil'
'Night Chronicles' trilogy is a world where the 'worst things happen,' director tells MTV News.By Josh Horowitz
M. Night Shyamalan
Photo: MTV News
M. Night Shyamalan is not letting the rather mixed reviews for "The Last Airbender" darken his easygoing spirit or dampen his creative verve. Late last month, as "Airbender" continued to rake in dough overseas, Shyamalan sat down with MTV News to chat about his upcoming "Devil," which follows five strangers trapped in an elevator — one of whom just might be the Prince of Darkness.
The film is the first in his planned "Night Chronicles" trilogy, a series based on his original ideas and helmed by other directors, and Shyamalan seems to relish the idea of getting out of the director's chair and into the role of producer, a job he likened to being the goalie on a hockey team.
M. Night Shyamalan
Photo: MTV News
M. Night Shyamalan is not letting the rather mixed reviews for "The Last Airbender" darken his easygoing spirit or dampen his creative verve. Late last month, as "Airbender" continued to rake in dough overseas, Shyamalan sat down with MTV News to chat about his upcoming "Devil," which follows five strangers trapped in an elevator — one of whom just might be the Prince of Darkness.
The film is the first in his planned "Night Chronicles" trilogy, a series based on his original ideas and helmed by other directors, and Shyamalan seems to relish the idea of getting out of the director's chair and into the role of producer, a job he likened to being the goalie on a hockey team.
Lindsay Lohan?s Ill-Timed ?Comeback? Role
Poor Lindsay. She can?t catch a break.
Released early from rehab and suddenly free again to pursue personal and professional rehabilitation, Lindsay Lohan has an opportunity to re-enter the public consciousness with the seriousness of a newly clean starlet intent on sobriety. And then here comes ?Machete? (check out the review here).
When Robert Rodriguez?s Mexploitation flick [...]
Released early from rehab and suddenly free again to pursue personal and professional rehabilitation, Lindsay Lohan has an opportunity to re-enter the public consciousness with the seriousness of a newly clean starlet intent on sobriety. And then here comes ?Machete? (check out the review here).
When Robert Rodriguez?s Mexploitation flick [...]
Entertaining the hungry ghosts Chiu Chow style
Once a year in the seventh lunar month the Moreton terrace temporary playground transforms into a wonderland of papier mache, gold leaf, tin prayer halls, and lit opera stages, all for the pleasure and welfare of the dead. Local ghosts are released for one month from the gates of hell and the spirits are entertained by a lavish four nights of Chiu Chow Opera. The living build stages, construct effigies, wash opera dresses, decorate the ghost-attracting truck and make themselves up in theatrical splendor for the pleasure and entertainment of ghosts.
Roadside Attractions and Liddell Entertainment close deal on I��rritu?s ?Biutiful?
Roadside Attractions and Liddell Entertainment have acquired U.S. rights to Alejandro Gonz�lez I��rritu?s latest drama, ?Biutiful.? Maple Pictures, Roadside?s Canadian partner, will release the film in Canada.
The film had its world premiere at the Festival de Cannes in May, where star Javier Bardem was honored with the best actor award. After the film [...]
The film had its world premiere at the Festival de Cannes in May, where star Javier Bardem was honored with the best actor award. After the film [...]
Roadside Attractions and Liddell Entertainment close deal on I��rritu?s ?Biutiful?
Roadside Attractions and Liddell Entertainment have acquired U.S. rights to Alejandro Gonz�lez I��rritu?s latest drama, ?Biutiful.? Maple Pictures, Roadside?s Canadian partner, will release the film in Canada.
The film had its world premiere at the Festival de Cannes in May, where star Javier Bardem was honored with the best actor award. After the film [...]
The film had its world premiere at the Festival de Cannes in May, where star Javier Bardem was honored with the best actor award. After the film [...]
Joanne Montanez Jodi Lyn OKeefe Jolene Blalock Jordana Brewster
Britney Spears - Circus
Circus
Artist: Britney Spears
Label: Jive
Album: Circus
Artist: Britney Spears
Label: Jive
Album: Circus
Jennifer Garner Jennifer Gimenez Jennifer Love Hewitt Jennifer Morrison
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Eminem Takes Us To Detroit For 1999 Interview
Em will return to his hometown Thursday with Jay-Z for the Home and Home Tour.By Jayson Rodriguez
Eminem in 1999
Photo: MTV News
Eminem's career has always been intertwined with the city of Detroit, and that was never more evident than during a 1999 interview with MTV News' Kurt Loder.
"Represent Detroit," a driver shouted off camera after honking his horn to get the rapper's attention.
"A'ight, dawg," Em responded with a wide smile across his face.
Now Em will return to his hometown, with Jay-Z in tow, for he first of two shows at Comerica Park for the rappers' Home and Home Tour.
During that 1999 interview, the then-budding superstar recounted his upbringing in the Motor City, from his home being shot at to numerous robberies and relocations. At that stage in his career, Em admitted that he wasn't physically in Detroit as much as he used to be or wanted to be.
"I got up out of the city," he explained, saying he moved to the suburbs. "I'm not really here that much. Between New York and L.A., I'm not really here. But I have somewhere to go when I am here."
Eminem withdrew from the game for a while, while dealing with his drug-dependency issues, and his return to the public eye coincided with Detroit's economic decline. The rapper spoke out about the city's conditions during television appearances, most notably when he visited Jimmy Kimmel and brought a number of blue-collar workers from Detroit with him to the L.A. studio.
He paid homage to Detroit on his last album with "Beautiful," filming the video in and around the city.
"Tiger Stadium is being torn down, and the train station is supposed to be demolished too. This video is one of the last times anybody outside of Detroit is going to see them," Em said about the treatment. "I wrote 'Beautiful' when I was really down, during a difficult time struggling with my addiction. It's a reminder to keep your head up and to see who you really are despite what you may be going through. Now that I've gotten through the toughest part, I see how the song relates to Detroit, and it feels even more powerful to me."
What do you think of Eminem's connection with Detroit? Let us know in the comments.
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Eminem in 1999
Photo: MTV News
Eminem's career has always been intertwined with the city of Detroit, and that was never more evident than during a 1999 interview with MTV News' Kurt Loder.
"Represent Detroit," a driver shouted off camera after honking his horn to get the rapper's attention.
"A'ight, dawg," Em responded with a wide smile across his face.
Now Em will return to his hometown, with Jay-Z in tow, for he first of two shows at Comerica Park for the rappers' Home and Home Tour.
During that 1999 interview, the then-budding superstar recounted his upbringing in the Motor City, from his home being shot at to numerous robberies and relocations. At that stage in his career, Em admitted that he wasn't physically in Detroit as much as he used to be or wanted to be.
"I got up out of the city," he explained, saying he moved to the suburbs. "I'm not really here that much. Between New York and L.A., I'm not really here. But I have somewhere to go when I am here."
Eminem withdrew from the game for a while, while dealing with his drug-dependency issues, and his return to the public eye coincided with Detroit's economic decline. The rapper spoke out about the city's conditions during television appearances, most notably when he visited Jimmy Kimmel and brought a number of blue-collar workers from Detroit with him to the L.A. studio.
He paid homage to Detroit on his last album with "Beautiful," filming the video in and around the city.
"Tiger Stadium is being torn down, and the train station is supposed to be demolished too. This video is one of the last times anybody outside of Detroit is going to see them," Em said about the treatment. "I wrote 'Beautiful' when I was really down, during a difficult time struggling with my addiction. It's a reminder to keep your head up and to see who you really are despite what you may be going through. Now that I've gotten through the toughest part, I see how the song relates to Detroit, and it feels even more powerful to me."
What do you think of Eminem's connection with Detroit? Let us know in the comments.
Related Photos
Jay-Z And Eminem: Stadium Face-Off
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Portia de Rossi Rachael Leigh Cook Rachel Bilson Rachel Blanchard
Led Zeppelin - Rock and Roll
Rock and Roll
Artist: Led Zeppelin
Label: Swan Song
Album: The Song Remains the Same
Artist: Led Zeppelin
Label: Swan Song
Album: The Song Remains the Same
M. Night Shyamalan Explains Origins Of 'Devil'
'Night Chronicles' trilogy is a world where the 'worst things happen,' director tells MTV News.By Josh Horowitz
M. Night Shyamalan
Photo: MTV News
M. Night Shyamalan is not letting the rather mixed reviews for "The Last Airbender" darken his easygoing spirit or dampen his creative verve. Late last month, as "Airbender" continued to rake in dough overseas, Shyamalan sat down with MTV News to chat about his upcoming "Devil," which follows five strangers trapped in an elevator — one of whom just might be the Prince of Darkness.
The film is the first in his planned "Night Chronicles" trilogy, a series based on his original ideas and helmed by other directors, and Shyamalan seems to relish the idea of getting out of the director's chair and into the role of producer, a job he likened to being the goalie on a hockey team.
M. Night Shyamalan
Photo: MTV News
M. Night Shyamalan is not letting the rather mixed reviews for "The Last Airbender" darken his easygoing spirit or dampen his creative verve. Late last month, as "Airbender" continued to rake in dough overseas, Shyamalan sat down with MTV News to chat about his upcoming "Devil," which follows five strangers trapped in an elevator — one of whom just might be the Prince of Darkness.
The film is the first in his planned "Night Chronicles" trilogy, a series based on his original ideas and helmed by other directors, and Shyamalan seems to relish the idea of getting out of the director's chair and into the role of producer, a job he likened to being the goalie on a hockey team.
Poppy Montgomery Portia de Rossi Rachael Leigh Cook Rachel Bilson
'Piranha 3D' Producer Mark Canton Fires Back At James Cameron
Earlier this week, I reported on some comments made by "Avatar" director James Cameron made about "Piranha 3D" and its use of 3-D serving only to "cheapen the medium." In my reporting of the news, I took issue with that sentiment. "Avatar" did something special, sure, but not all film is created equally. Just because [...]
The Cast Of ?Mad Men? Does ?Rolling Stone? Magazine
Last month we got to see the principal cast of True Blood wearing nothing but blood on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine. Today we get to see the ladies and leading man of Mad Men on the cover of the new issue of RS. This time, the coverstars are fully dressed … and mostly [...]
Usher - Fed Up (featuring Usher, Young Jeezy, Drake, Rick Ross)
Fed Up (featuring Usher, Young Jeezy, Drake, Rick Ross)
Artist: Usher
Label: We The Best, E1 Music
Director: Gil Green
Artist: Usher
Label: We The Best, E1 Music
Director: Gil Green
Photos | Justin Bieber, Miranda Cosgrove, More Arrive At 2010 Kids' Choice Awards
Justin Bieber, Miranda Cosgrove, More Arrive At 2010 Kids' Choice Awards
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Britney Spears Tweets A Picture From 'Glee' Set
'Can't wait for you guys to see the episode!' Spears writes on Twitter.By Mawuse Ziegbe
Britney Spears and her assistant Brett Miller
Photo: Twitter
For fans who may have doubted whether the Britney Spears "Glee" episode is happening, the pop sensation has just provided photographic proof.
The star gave fans a glimpse of her inner-"Gleek" on Wednesday (August 18) by posting a TwitPic of herself next to her assistant Brett Miller, a Spears doppelgänger, both sporting similar specs and wavy blond locks.
After devoting episodes to the dance-floor-filling repertoires of Madonna and Lady Gaga, "Glee" is hard at work bringing Spears' string of hits to William McKinley High. So far, Spears, who makes a cameo in the upcoming episode, is enjoying the process.
"About to do my first shot of the day for Glee tweeties! Here we goooo!" Spears tweeted. The "Circus" singer later added, "What's up GLEEKS? Having so much fun on set!! Can't wait for you guys to see the episode!"
The "Glee" cast is also pumped to turn out Spears' smash-hit catalog. "I get to do Britney Spears!" Heather Morris exclaimed to MTV News earlier this month. "I like 'Toxic' the best or the 'Slave' video. It was always her best performance. She's rocking! I don't care what I do."
Jenna Ushkowitz confirmed that Lea Michele would take on Spears' star-making debut hit, " ... Baby One More Time." Aside from Spears' TwitPic — in which she's presumably in costume — and "Glee" creator Ryan Murphy's recent comments that Spears will "kind of" play herself, details about the episode have remained under wraps.
"Some old Britney, some new Britney, some Brittany of our Brittany from the glee club. So it should be funny," Ushkowitz hinted about the song selection. "We're really excited. I love Britney Spears."
What role do you think Britney will play on "Glee"? Let us know in the comments below!
Related Artists
Britney Spears
Britney Spears and her assistant Brett Miller
Photo: Twitter
For fans who may have doubted whether the Britney Spears "Glee" episode is happening, the pop sensation has just provided photographic proof.
The star gave fans a glimpse of her inner-"Gleek" on Wednesday (August 18) by posting a TwitPic of herself next to her assistant Brett Miller, a Spears doppelgänger, both sporting similar specs and wavy blond locks.
After devoting episodes to the dance-floor-filling repertoires of Madonna and Lady Gaga, "Glee" is hard at work bringing Spears' string of hits to William McKinley High. So far, Spears, who makes a cameo in the upcoming episode, is enjoying the process.
"About to do my first shot of the day for Glee tweeties! Here we goooo!" Spears tweeted. The "Circus" singer later added, "What's up GLEEKS? Having so much fun on set!! Can't wait for you guys to see the episode!"
The "Glee" cast is also pumped to turn out Spears' smash-hit catalog. "I get to do Britney Spears!" Heather Morris exclaimed to MTV News earlier this month. "I like 'Toxic' the best or the 'Slave' video. It was always her best performance. She's rocking! I don't care what I do."
Jenna Ushkowitz confirmed that Lea Michele would take on Spears' star-making debut hit, " ... Baby One More Time." Aside from Spears' TwitPic — in which she's presumably in costume — and "Glee" creator Ryan Murphy's recent comments that Spears will "kind of" play herself, details about the episode have remained under wraps.
"Some old Britney, some new Britney, some Brittany of our Brittany from the glee club. So it should be funny," Ushkowitz hinted about the song selection. "We're really excited. I love Britney Spears."
What role do you think Britney will play on "Glee"? Let us know in the comments below!
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TRAILER: Dax Shepard and Katie Aselton in ?The Freebie? (video)
Katie Aselton's micro-indie "The Freebie" had its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year as part of the new Next section. It stars Dax Shepard and Aselton as a young married couple who give each other one free pass to stray.
Phase 4 Films picked up the film right after the fest and will [...]
Phase 4 Films picked up the film right after the fest and will [...]
Adam Lambert's 'Whole Lotta Love': The Story Behind The Cover
Glam rocker tackled the legendary 1970 Led Zeppelin song for 'American Idol' rock night.By Gil Kaufman
Adam Lambert performs "Whole Lotta Love" on "American Idol" on Tuesday
Photo: R. Mickshaw/Getty Images/ Fox
Imagine a freight train speeding toward you at midnight. Or a rockslide barreling down a hill as you try to outrace it. That's the feeling of the ominous, chugging Jimmy Page riff that kicks off Led Zeppelin's 1970 Stonehenge of rock, "Whole Lotta Love." And that's before singer Robert Plant leans into one of the nastiest, ecstatic rock screams this side of the Who's "Won't Get Fooled Again."
That's the song Adam Lambert chose to sing on "American Idol" rock night Tuesday (May 5), and, needless to say, it was a challenge that the eyeliner-loving Los Angeles stage veteran was more than up for, hitting a series of high notes and rock screams that would have made Plant proud. It was a risky maneuver that paid off for Lambert, who chose a tune that came in at #75 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the "500 Greatest Songs of All Time" in 2004.
The legendary British rock act recorded the tribute to Chicago blues icon Willie Dixon during their second U.S. tour after working it out in their live show, including it on their 1969 classic album Led Zeppelin II. Like many of the songs Zeppelin performed early in their career, "Love" was a blues standard turned on its head with a heavy dose of crunching psychedelic guitar and thundering drums, courtesy of late drummer John Bonham. The song was based on a 1962 tune by another blues forefather, Muddy Waters, called "You Need Love," which was penned by Dixon.
For Zeppelin's version, Plant customized the lyrics by adding some lyrical quotes from a few other songs Dixon wrote for Howlin' Wolf, "Back Door Man" and "Shake For Me," nailing the tricky vocal in a single take. It was also inspired by 1966's "You Need Loving" from the British rock group the Small Faces, for whom Zeppelin had great affection, but they also did not credit Dixon for his part in writing the original lyrics. The song became Zeppelin's first U.S. single and their only U.S. top 10 hit. Though their manager would not let them release singles in the U.K. because he thought it cannibalized album sales, the song was finally released as the band's only British single in 1997.
Dixon sued Zeppelin over the song in 1985, claiming it borrowed too heavily from his "You Need Love," and Zeppelin reached an agreement with him, with Dixon using the money he received to set up a program that provided musical instruments for schools. A cornerstone of heavy rock, the tune -- which was the theme song for the long-running British countdown show "Top of the Pops" in the 1970s and '80s -- has been covered by dozens of artists over the years, from Tina Turner and Ben Harper to Prince, Slash, Leona Lewis, Train's Pat Monahan, the London Symphony Orchestra and Jane's Addiction.
Get your "Idol" fix on MTV News' "American Idol" page, where you'll find all the latest news, interviews and opinions.
Related Videos
Adam Lambert's Theatrical Roots
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Led Zeppelin
Adam Lambert performs "Whole Lotta Love" on "American Idol" on Tuesday
Photo: R. Mickshaw/Getty Images/ Fox
Imagine a freight train speeding toward you at midnight. Or a rockslide barreling down a hill as you try to outrace it. That's the feeling of the ominous, chugging Jimmy Page riff that kicks off Led Zeppelin's 1970 Stonehenge of rock, "Whole Lotta Love." And that's before singer Robert Plant leans into one of the nastiest, ecstatic rock screams this side of the Who's "Won't Get Fooled Again."
That's the song Adam Lambert chose to sing on "American Idol" rock night Tuesday (May 5), and, needless to say, it was a challenge that the eyeliner-loving Los Angeles stage veteran was more than up for, hitting a series of high notes and rock screams that would have made Plant proud. It was a risky maneuver that paid off for Lambert, who chose a tune that came in at #75 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the "500 Greatest Songs of All Time" in 2004.
The legendary British rock act recorded the tribute to Chicago blues icon Willie Dixon during their second U.S. tour after working it out in their live show, including it on their 1969 classic album Led Zeppelin II. Like many of the songs Zeppelin performed early in their career, "Love" was a blues standard turned on its head with a heavy dose of crunching psychedelic guitar and thundering drums, courtesy of late drummer John Bonham. The song was based on a 1962 tune by another blues forefather, Muddy Waters, called "You Need Love," which was penned by Dixon.
For Zeppelin's version, Plant customized the lyrics by adding some lyrical quotes from a few other songs Dixon wrote for Howlin' Wolf, "Back Door Man" and "Shake For Me," nailing the tricky vocal in a single take. It was also inspired by 1966's "You Need Loving" from the British rock group the Small Faces, for whom Zeppelin had great affection, but they also did not credit Dixon for his part in writing the original lyrics. The song became Zeppelin's first U.S. single and their only U.S. top 10 hit. Though their manager would not let them release singles in the U.K. because he thought it cannibalized album sales, the song was finally released as the band's only British single in 1997.
Dixon sued Zeppelin over the song in 1985, claiming it borrowed too heavily from his "You Need Love," and Zeppelin reached an agreement with him, with Dixon using the money he received to set up a program that provided musical instruments for schools. A cornerstone of heavy rock, the tune -- which was the theme song for the long-running British countdown show "Top of the Pops" in the 1970s and '80s -- has been covered by dozens of artists over the years, from Tina Turner and Ben Harper to Prince, Slash, Leona Lewis, Train's Pat Monahan, the London Symphony Orchestra and Jane's Addiction.
Get your "Idol" fix on MTV News' "American Idol" page, where you'll find all the latest news, interviews and opinions.
Related Videos
Adam Lambert's Theatrical Roots
Related Photos
Adam Lambert's Wild "American Idol" Journey
Related Artists
Led Zeppelin
Photos | Lady Gaga Performs At Staples Center
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