Hollywood Fashionista

Article first published as Hollywood Fashionista on Blogcritics.

We’ve all seen Hollywood stars on movie sets. We’ve also seen their stars shine brightly in commercials. Jude Law, Keira Knightley, Matthew McConnaughey, and Ryan Reynolds have joined the crew and boarded the Fashionista ship. I know it sounds corny, but I said it.

Here’s a list of these four celebrities' fashion campaigns:

• Jude Law – Dior Homme Sport
• Matthew McConnaughey – Dolce & Gabbana (One Gentlemen)
• Keira Knightley – Chanel CoCo Mademoiselle
• Ryan Reynolds – Boss Hugo

It’s become a trend, but what’s in it for the Hollywood stars? Besides money of course. It must go deeper than that. And why do fashion companies prefer to use Hollywood names? Why not use models?

According to Filmonic.com, big screen faces don’t usually accept commercial opportunities in the U.S. Why? In a nutshell, they could be at risk of damaging their credibility. However, this is not the case in other parts of the world, with Asia and Eastern Europe offering big bucks to Hollywood actors and actresses.

Celebrity endorsements benefit both partners. Saurbh Katyal on chillibreeze.com lists the common factors in celebrity endorsements:

• Instant brand awareness
• Refreshing the brand (in a sense, re-launching the brand)
• Credibility/aspiration for PR coverage
• Persuading clients

And the list above cleverly connects with the following question: Why do fashion campaigns prefer to have Hollywood celebrities in their commercials? The answer is obvious, as the celebrity’s presence benefits the brand.

Superstars are always looking for opportunities to shine their stars even brighter, and if they see a door wide open, they’re going to walk through. Simple as that!

Is the iCloud Really Secure?

Article first published as Is the iCloud Really Secure? on Blogcritics.

iCloud makes you feel like you’re on cloud 9 right? Technology is on turbo speed, it’s developing so fast. Everyone is doing it: Apple, Amazon and Google. It’s like everyone is trying to lead, just like how Tails follows Sonic. However it forces me to question, is our data safe? Lets find out, Apple CEO Steve Jobs recently announced iCloud prices on June 6th WWDC 2011 keynote. iCloud is bundled with nine essential apps, as stated by Apple.com these are as follows;

• iTunes in the cloud
• Photostream
• Documents in the cloud
• Apps, books, and backup
• Contacts, calendar, and mail

Sounds like Apple’s got it covered, store all your data up in the cloud, and never worry about it again--sounds great!

We all know that as technology advances, the doors open wider forhackers. Putting this into consideration you can’t help but ask yourself--how safe are these cloud services? According to npr.org, physically, Apple’s data centre in North California is pretty secure. So secure in fact, they have guards placed everywhere like Lego pieces. This is not enough; the inside is just as important as the outside.

Credit goes to npr.org once again for providing us with an important quote from cloud tester Mitnick, who was hired by Apple to take its cloud service to its limits:

I was hired to test this cloud infrastructure in South America. Literally in the 15 minutes that I was on the phone with the CEO of the company and one of the lead technical guys, I was able to get access that only system administrators should get access to.

We should be over the moon with these cloud services that are being developed for us, but when you read Mitnick’s quote, it gets you thinking--is it worth it?

Listen To Beats - The Dre Way

Beats by Dr Dre, headphones from all time hip-hop/rap producer Dr. Dre; manufactured, distributed, and exclusively licensed by Monster. How did it all begin? It really makes you wonder doesn’t it? Well, don’t worry, I’m about to give you the low down on advanced audio technology. Beats By Dr. Dre, created by the genius hip-hop producer of all time himself; together with Interscope Records – Chairmen Jimmy Iovine, bring you six editions of headphones and ear-phone technology. Originally released in January 2008, Beats By Dr. Dre, introduced the next generation of audio paraphernalia.

Beats by Dr. Dre was built, developed, produced, and inspired from the following paragraph said by Dre:

“People aren't hearing all the music. Artists and producers work hard in the studio perfecting their sound. But people can't really hear it with normal headphones. Most headphones can't handle the bass, the detail, the dynamics. Bottom line, the music doesn't move you. With Beats, people are going to hear what the artists hear, and listen to the music the way they should: the way I do."

Beats by Dr.Dre, comes in five editions, bundled with six models, all as powerful, sleek and next generation as the next one. Dre definitely produced a beat, for all generations of music lovers. The classic, over the ear design has the potential to be a partner in a DJ’s repertoire.

Here is what the price range looks like from the Beats By Dre collection.

High Performance Over The Ear Headphones Edition includes:

Studio HD – black, white and red $458.32 (£279)

Pro – black and white $574.96 (£350)

Solo – black and white $244.77 (£149)

Solo HD – black, white and graphite $277.62 (£169)

Solo HD (Product RED Edition) - $277.62 (£169)

Justbeats Solo – Only available in purple $277.62 (£169)

The In-Ear Edition includes:

Tour – black and white [ControlTalk] $229.98 (£139.99) black $195.48 (£119.99)

Ibeats – black, white, chrome, black aluminium $131.42 (£79.99)

Justbeats – Only available in purple $131.42 (£79.99)

Heartbeats – rose red, bright chrome, black chrome [ControlTalk] $131.42 (£79.99) – rose red, bright chrome, black chrome $82.13 (£49.99)

Diddybeats – black [ControlTalk], powder pink [ControlTalk] and white [ControlTalk Universal] $197.13 (£119.99)

Powerbeats – white, red and black $197.13 (£119.99)

It was July 2008, when the first Beats By Dr. Dre HD headphones reach the store shelves.

In October 2009, Dre and his team, hook up with HP to announce the HP ENVY15 Notebook PC with Beats By Dre integration.

The most recent product announcement, was made in May 2011, Studio HD arrives exclusively at Best Buy stores.

These headphones are seen everywhere, particularly in music videos. Celebrities like; Will.i.am, Fergie, Hugh Jackman, Kobe Bryant, Lady GaGa, Paris Hillton, and many more own a set of Beats By Dre. Of course, this isn’t over, Beats By Dr. Dre has plenty more to offer. Be sure to visit beatsbydre.com to get more info on other Beats By Dr. Dre products. Order online, or visit your local tech store.

Three S' Of Music & Fun - Sainsbury's Super Saturday

I've got a riddle for you, what do Sainsbury’s, one of the UK’s local supermarkets; The Saturdays, a cheesy pop girl group that I’ve never really understood, but again that’s only my opinion, so it’s not worth much. Chipmunk a UK rapper, who debuted with the ‘I Am Chipmunk’ and last but not least; Taio Cruiz - UK singer/song writer, and record producer have in common? Need Help? Well, three S’ “Sainsbury’s Super Saturday!” That’s right, proud sponsor of Paralympic Games presents, Sainsbury’s Super Saturday. A mini concert together with the big artists mentioned above.

This ‘Super Saturday’, is planning to take place on September 10th of this year, located at Clapham Common London. However, let’s not forget to mention, the entrance fee of £45 for adults and £35 for kids. OK, I know the price is a little steep, it almost makes you want to crash to the floor, but you never know, it might just be worth it. “ Try something new” Sainsbury’s say.

I’m not against ‘trying something new’ but what if it doesn’t fit, what then? Refund? I don’t think so. I do not like the price being presented here. A price drop could have been considered for kids, why it wasn’t considered? I have no idea. Oh well, at least it leaves you with one philosophy; everything at least deserves one chance right?

The reason for ‘Sainsbury’s Super Saturday’ is to lend a helping hand, to the Paralympic Games of 2012. What’s the story behind it? Well, Sainsbury’s is an official partner of London 2012 Olympic Games. All profit made from this interactive event, will be donated to the Paralympic Legacy Fund. This will then, be connected with ParalympicsGB. It’s also important to note, that Sainsbury’s Super Saturday aim to encourage healthier, and dynamic lifestyles.

As well as being committed to promote fitness, Sainsbury’s is eager to change the perception that society has left towards people with disabilities. You want a little info on the London 2012 Paralympics Games mascot? Sure, why not? His name is Mendavile, a name inspired by Stoke Mendavile in Buckinghamshire, the city that gave birth to the Paralympic Games.

To begin your ‘Super Saturday’, you can book your tickets online, from May 20th at ticketmaster.co.uk.

So, will you be one of those people jumping for joy as September 10th approaches? Or are you on the other side of the fence? The ones who’re actually waiting for this post to come to end? Either way, remember it’s a music event, and where there’s a music, there’s fun!

Insidious: Dare To Be Part Of An Insidious Plan?

Insidious, what does it mean? Well, I didn’t even know until now, but according to the dictionary, it means, ‘…intended to entrap or beguile: an insidious plan’. While we’re on the subject of words, I have to say, I really like the sound of the word ‘insidious’. Does that make me weird? Anyway, enough about that lets get down to business. Crafted by the creators of Paranormal Activity and Saw, two genius minds combined into one, James Wan and Oren Peli bring you Insidious; a horror/thriller/fantasy, originally released in April of this year.

Introducing a compelling story of an ordinary American family, who turn out to be out of the ordinary in a blink of an eye. Little Dolton wasn't able to wake up one morning to get ready for school. Concerned parents, arrive at the hospital, with no hope or proper diagnosis from the doctors. Parents Josh Lambert (Patrick Wilson) Renai Lambert (RoseByrne), who do everything in their power to prevent demonic spirits, from possessing their young son in a comatose state. Dolton Lambert (Ty Simpkins) trapped between two realms. Worlds, that’s deemed as ‘reality and the further’. When inside the world of insidious, there’s no distinction between reality and fantasy. While, on a mission to save his son, Dad, Josh, discovers his disturbing past catches up with him. Think for a second, how many times in the cinema, have you unexpectedly jump out of your skin? Because for a quick second, fear jumped outs at you, and dominates the big screen. Leaving you no choice, but your popcorn flying out of the bucket. Well, expect that and much more. Only this time, it’s even more dramatic! Insidious, with its dramatic and compelling storyline that catches the attention of anyone who loves the occasional good scare. Paranormal Activity and Saw fans can unite together, and scream in harmonic fear, because at the end of the day, that’s what makes a good horror movie!

Eurovision 2011: Will You Be Watching?

Love it or hate it, personally I hate it, but my opinion is only worth 2cents. Yes, the final of the Eurovision Song Contest is due to be on your TV screens this Saturday night, (14/5/11) at 8pm GMT. The Eurovision Song Contest, the best way to describe it; it’s a cheap imitation of pop music, that’s crying out for attention. As a music lover, I don’t believe the Eurovision leaves a strong impression, or impact on the music industry.

The Eurovision Song Contest was an idea, developed by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) in 1955. It has become a tradition for 54 years, watched by millions of viewers all over the world. The contest was first publicised in 1956, and has since, carried out a yearly celebration of European talent.

I want to highlight 3 pros and 3 cons about the Eurovision Song Contest, the good, the bad and the ugly!

Pros

1) Discover new music, and broaden your horizon

2) Eurovision helps to unite the world even if it is for a short period of time

3) Expand your knowledge of different cultures and religions

Cons


1) Eurovision can sometimes make music seem desperate and crying out for attention

2) You begin to ask yourself, does the music industry really need the Eurovision?

3) It needs to change, I don't know what, if it's the setup or planing but every year we watch the same thing over and over again...isn't anyone bored yet?

In honor of the Eurovision’s 50th anniversary, the first junior
Eurovision took place in 2003. While in 2005, ABBA’s Waterloo, was voted the viewers’ favourite Eurovision song ever.

A team of three will host the show; – Anke Engelke, Judith Rakers, and Stefan Raab, take place in the Fortuna Düsseldorf’s arena.

The arena, welcomes a maximum number of 54,000 people however, due to technical difficulties, and the stage being enough to reduce the entire capacity of the venue. In reality, the venue is expected to take an audience of 24,000.

A total of 25 countries, including the UK will take centre stage, and fight to be the winner of the Eurovision Song Contest.

You can expect to see:

Blue ‘I Can’ – United Kingdom

Lena ‘Taken By A Stranger’ - Germany

Eric Sade ‘Popular’ - Sweden

Loucas Yiorkas feat. Stereo Mike ‘Watch My Dance’ – Greece

…And many more.

The artists I’m looking forward to perform are:

Blue ‘I Can’ – United Kingdom

Lena ‘Taken By A Stranger’ – Germany

Christos Mylordos ‘San Aggelos S’Agapisa’ – Cyprus

Anna Rossinelli ‘In Love For A While’ - Switzerland

3JS ‘Never Alone’ – The Netherlands


So, who do you think will take the title as the winner of the Eurovision Song Contest 2011? Anyone in this list I wonder? Hmmm….we have to wait and see, tune in tomorrow to find out!

b.supreme, b.unique (Because Different Is Always Good) - b.supreme Festival Reviewed

Independent women just got a new meaning. Exactly when the suffragette women, earned the right to vote in the international elections in 1918. However, women located in the UK, were not granted, the right to vote on the same terms as men, until 1928.

The United States, were eight years ahead of the UK. US women were approved to vote in the 1920s, at the age of 18.

Fast-forward to the 21st century, and women in hip-hop earned the right to be counted, watched, respected, and finally admired.

This is what the b.supreme festival was all about. Hosted, and celebrated, in London UK at the Southbank Centre on April 25th. The b.supreme festival introduces countless female acts to take centre stage and wow the audience. These female acts included the likes of:

Project G
Boadecia
Funkamental
Unity
…and many others.

How were the performances? You might ask, as Mary Poppins would say, “supercalifragilisticexpialidocious”. With a variety of dance moves from body-popping, to break dancing, let’s not forget dance offs. Mix it all together, and what do we have ladies and gentlemen? (H.H.H) Hip-Hop heaven!

Boadecia – A female crew, made up of eight women, took centre stage. Roaring to go, dressed in red leopard patterned tights, and a black plain t-shirt, printed in white capital letters that simply read ‘Boadicia’.

Accompanying their dance moves, with an electronic hip-hop beat, that would get you bouncing at the clubs. Dance, done in style, meeting every beat of the track, like a human heartbeat, with no need for CPR.

Funkamental – Another group of eight women, dressed in silk from top to bottom, red and black colours. Each colour representing a different meaning; black, that represents a meaning of authority, and power. While red, reveals the meaning of passion, love, and seriousness. Funkamental, body popping, and robot dancing over a electronic/techno beat that was later blended into an altered version of Michael Jackson's Human Nature.

Unity - A unisex dance crew – Contestants of Move Like Michael Jackson 2010, set the stage on fire, with their amazing moves, that almost seemed like they were rapping, only without words.

b.supreme 2011, ends with an 8 Mile style dance off. You know it had to be done right? Three rounds of dance offs, between eight unisex groups of two, fighting for a chance, to say to the other team ‘you got served baby!” Spinning their way to victory, were Roxy and Spin, who left the as winners of b.supreme 2011.