MTV News |
- Beyonce's 'Countdown' Video Shoot Was 'Evolving, Spontaneous'
- Lady Gaga To Release Monster Ball DVD, Remix Album
- Beyonce's 'Countdown' Video: A Pop-Culture Cheat Sheet
- Michael Jackson Doctor Claimed He 'Took All Precautions'
- Irv Gotti's Attempts To Sign Nas Damaged Jay-Z Relationship
- Occupy Wall Street An 'Effective' Movement, Thomas Friedman Says
- Jay Sean Says Joe Jonas Tour Was 'Crazy,' 'Hectic'
- Hugh Jackman Hopes To Saddle Up For 'Unbound Captives'
- Nicki Minaj Recalls Pre-Success Suicidal Thoughts
- Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga To Honor Teens At HALO Awards
- Rick Ross' <i>God Forgives</i> Will Have Others 'Chasing' Sound
- Demi Lovato Announces Tour
- Talib Kweli Joins Occupy Wall Street Protest
- 'Ides Of March': The Reviews Are In!
- Thomas Gold Shares Completed 'Sing2me': MTV Exclusive!
- Justin Bieber Surprises Rio Fans With Selena Gomez
- Vinny Remembers Pre-'Jersey Shore' Bullying
- Beyonce's 'Countdown' Video A Unanimous Hit With Fans
- 'Real Steel': The Reviews Are In!
- Johnny Depp Signs On For Dr. Seuss Biopic
| Beyonce's 'Countdown' Video Shoot Was 'Evolving, Spontaneous' Posted: 07 Oct 2011 02:37 AM PDT 'I love the creative team that works with Beyonce because they can roll with anything,' video director Adria Petty says.
Beyoncé's "Countdown" video plays up the singer's theatrical side. It pays homage to iconic films like "West Side Story" and "Funny Face," as well as '60s icons like the Supremes and Audrey Hepburn. The clip, co-directed by Adria Petty, is an eye-catching glimpse at the pop culture moments that reside in the creative conscience of the pop star.
While a lot of the video displays the singer's personality and spunk, as well as her ever-expanding baby bump, it's clear that Petty and her team worked hard to make sure they captured the spirit of the milestones they re-created in the video. "I brought Beyoncé a number of references and we picked some out together. Most were German modern-dance references, believe it or not. But it really evolved," she told MTV News, calling it "an evolving, spontaneous process." Check out what we spotted, and let us know what we missed! "The references were then dispersed to her creative team (hair, makeup, wardrobe), and they interpreted them on the set in their own special way. Of course, one of the strongest wardrobe references was Audrey Hepburn in 'Funny Face' when she does the beatnik dance scene. I think a lot grew from there," Petty continued. Shot over the last few months in New York City warehouses, the shoot was all about being able to squeeze in all of her work commitments while also trying to finish the elaborately set video. What do Queen B's fans have to say about that "Countdown" baby bump? "The shoot was great. We had a number of brilliant dancers and musicians and a top-notch crew. Beyoncé brings in a number of her own people who are so hardworking. Our video was the fourth they had shot in five days," Petty said. "I love the creative team that works with Beyoncé because they can roll with anything and keep smiling. Everyone was really upbeat and excited because we all love the track and the opportunity to work with Beyoncé so much." Related Videos Related Photos Related Artists |
| Lady Gaga To Release Monster Ball DVD, Remix Album Posted: 07 Oct 2011 01:58 AM PDT Gaga will also release a package option, Born This Way: The Collection, that includes the DVD and the original and remix albums.
For anyone who couldn't make it to Madison Square Garden to catch Lady Gaga's Monster Ball tour or didn't catch the HBO special Lady Gaga Presents the Monster Ball Tour at Madison Square Garden, don't fret. Mother Monster has your back. Lady Gaga's Emmy Award-winning Monster Ball concert special will be released on DVD on November 21. The disc will include exclusive, previously unreleased footage. If that's not enough for the Little Monsters out there, Born This Way the Remix album will also be available that same day. It'll feature 14 songs remixed by a number of DJs and artists, including breakout indie band Foster the People, Michael Woods and the Weeknd. For those looking for more options, Gaga has plans to bundle those two items together with her original Born This Way album for the ultimate Gaga gift, Born This Way: The Collection. While fans eagerly await news of what Gaga's next single off the chart-topping BTW will be, she's certainly been keeping busy, including beginning work on a follow-up album. "I'm actually already working on my next album," she said. "So I've been working on that. I've been planning the next tour, which keeps me very excited and busy because I have lots of new ideas, and I know exactly how I want it to look. I'm also planning my next music video. I have lots of things to do, but in truth, I feel like I'm the most alive when I'm onstage." Related Videos Related Photos Related Artists |
| Beyonce's 'Countdown' Video: A Pop-Culture Cheat Sheet Posted: 06 Oct 2011 10:54 PM PDT We analyze the Mod references and more as B does her best 'Funny Face' in new Technicolor clip.
Beatniks, bobby socks and ... Beyoncé? On Thursday night, King B premiered her eagerly anticipated, Adria Petty-directed "Countdown" video, doing a bit of time travel back to the Swinging Sixties.
The colorful clip (if you doubt it, check out the glorious "Countdown" GIF Wall our pals at Buzzworthy cooked up!) is packed with references and looks — spanning the '60s to the '80s, from vintage Vogue covers to a head-to-toe homage to the Hollywood musical "Funny Face." Check out what we spotted, and let us know what we missed! The Banana Dance: Josephine Baker was just too hot for these United States, so she took her provocative act to the one place where a black girl in the 1920s could get down without the prude police knocking down your door: Paris. While B isn't topless with a fistful of ripe Chiquita bananas strung around her waist, she does La Baker proud in a series of twirls and booty-popping twists. "Blow-Up": Influential Italian filmmaker Michelangelo Antonioni captured London's Mod scene in this 1966 flick. "Countdown" not only recalls the film's Technicolor glow and quick-cut technique, but B's exaggerated high-fashion poses also feel inspired by the ones depicted in the motion picture. "Fame": Ragtag bunch of gifteds dance on tables at a New York City performing arts high school in early-80s TV series. Their leader (played by Debbie Allen) kicked off each episode with a pep talk about the high price of fame, but it's the studio and the modern dance duds that come to mind when we watch Petty's 2011 clip. "Flashdance": Pittsburgh welder/exotic dancer has her heart set on getting into a prestigious ballet company in the 1983 cult classic. King B tugs at the shoulder of her gray sweatshirt, and pop culture welcomes another Jennifer Beals homage into the universe. "Funny Face": A gamine Audrey Hepburn dons beatnik black in the West Village in this 1957 Fred Astaire musical. From the bunched white socks and loafers to the fancy footwork, Beyoncé kicks off "Countdown" by nailing the silver-screen queen's iconic look — and dusts off the Bebop moves too! Check out the photos! Pop Culture References In Beyonce's 'Countdown' The Gap: Americans presumably bought khakis in record numbers in 1998, the same year the retailer launched an ad campaign featuring swing dancers in their pleated pants. The commercial comes rushing back when B's suddenly surrounded by khaki-clad hoofers.
"Glass Pieces": Set to a Phillip Glass composition, Broadway giant Jerome Robbins created the work for the New York City Ballet. Could B's team have been checking out the piece when they picked out those colorful costumes and choreographed the airy footwork? "I Wanna Dance With Somebody": Flashing fluorescent backdrops with monochromatic DayGlo outfit changes to match. The black-and-white tiled floor, Crayola-box makeup, even an assortment of wide-band hair bows — it's all there in Brian Grant's 1987 clip for Whitney Houston, and now it's in B's extravaganza. Luna, Donyale: In March 1966, Detroit native became first black model to cover British Vogue, striking the eye-between-the-fingers pose for famed photog David Bailey. Beyonce, looking very Luna, shows off similar handwork. Mondrian, Piet: Early-20th century Dutch artist's primary color-drenched, colorblock pieces were hallmark of his Neo-Plasticism style. The grid-like backgrounds in Beyoncé's visual look like they could have been painted by Piet. Quant, Mary: Fashion/cosmetics designer reigned in the swinging '60s. Superstar's hair and makeup job looks exactly like a popular ad for the brand. The Supremes: Motown girl group; legends. No one does Diana like the "Dreamgirl," who shakes it in a sparkly silver minidress and bouffant wig. "Valley of the Dolls": Campy 1967 film based on novel by Jacqueline Susann about three 20-somethings with Big Apple dreams who succumb to drugs (dolls) and drama. B's pink nightdress with purple hair bow look reminds us of the movie's promotional poster. Versace: Look no further than vintage Versace ads for clues about the juicy, rainbow-bright bodysuits that B pairs with a striped, wide-brim chapeau. "West Side Story": Jets and Sharks knew the only way to settle a turf war was ... a dance-off! Dance master Jerome Robbins worked up a snaps-heavy number for the theatrical release. A B snaps to that. Share your thoughts on the "Countdown" video in the comments below! Related Videos Related Photos Related Artists |
| Michael Jackson Doctor Claimed He 'Took All Precautions' Posted: 07 Oct 2011 05:50 AM PDT Recording of Conrad Murray's interview with police two days after Jackson's death was played in court Friday (October 7).
After a day in which the defense attorney for Dr. Conrad Murray went on the offensive against a key prosecution witness in the physician's involuntary manslaughter trial, the focus on Friday (October 7) turned to a recording of the doctor's account of his actions while tending to Michael Jackson on the day the pop icon died. During Thursday's proceedings, attorney Ed Chernoff accused lead coroner's office investigator Elissa Fleak of sloppy work in her investigation of Jackson's death. Chernoff suggested that Fleak made a number of mistakes, including leaving her fingerprint on a syringe found on Jackson's nightstand. In a sometimes heated exchange, Chernoff hammered Fleak about changes she made earlier this year to her report on Jackson's death, suggesting that they were intended to corroborate the testimony of key prosecution witness Alberto Alvarez, who has claimed that he helped Murray gather up medical evidence at the crime scene, according to the Los Angeles Times. Toxicologist Dan Anderson also noted that trace amounts — equal to a few drops — of the surgical anesthetic propofol were found in Jackson's stomach. Murray's defense team has been trying to bolster their theory that Jackson fatally injected or ingested propofol himself. Friday's highlights included: » More testimony from Anderson, who sparred with Murray's lawyer over whether the trace amount of the sedative Lorazepam in Jackson's stomach was proof he'd swallowed the drug. According to the Los Angeles Times, defense attorney J. Michael Flanagan repeatedly suggested that there was no other explanation for how the drug ended up in Jackson's stomach, even as Anderson said there might be a reason, but that he was not qualified to explain it. Murray has acknowledged giving Jackson two injections of the drug, but the defense team has argued that the pop singer swallowed a handful of the pills on his own without Murray's knowledge. » Los Angeles Police Department detective Scott Smith testified that the day after Jackson's death, the singer's family handed over a shaving kit containing degraded marijuana and empty bottles of the prescription insomnia drug Temazepam. He described Jackson's bedroom as "messy" and said he found empty bottles of the anti-anxiety drugs Diazepam and Lorazepam in the room. » While Murray has not yet taken the stand and is not expected to, on Friday, attorneys played a recorded conversation Smith had with Murray and his lawyers two days after Jackson's death — on June 27 — that was set up at the request of Murray's team. In it, Murray disclosed the list of sedatives and painkillers he administered to Jackson in an effort to make him comfortable enough to sleep after a day of long rehearsals for his This Is It comeback concerts. Murray admitted to giving Jackson several medications: a 2-milligram Lorazepam IV, 10 milligrams of Valium and finally, 25 milligrams of propofol. Murray claimed in the recording that he "took all precautions that were available to me" in dosing Jackson. » Also in the recorded conversation heard on Friday, Murray never mentions that he was on the phone with friends on the day of Jackson's death. Witness Sade Anding testified earlier in the week that she was on the phone with Murray around the time Jackson died. Murray has pleaded not guilty to the charge of involuntary manslaughter. He faces four years in prison and the loss of his medical license. Related Artists |
| Irv Gotti's Attempts To Sign Nas Damaged Jay-Z Relationship Posted: 07 Oct 2011 10:00 AM PDT |
| Occupy Wall Street An 'Effective' Movement, Thomas Friedman Says Posted: 07 Oct 2011 04:43 AM PDT 'Your generation, the MTV generation, they need to be the regeneration,' writer tells MTV News.
Your mother probably once told you to finish everything on your dinner plate because in some third-world country, there's someone who doesn't have enough food to eat. But Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Thomas L. Friedman predicted a whole new type of motivation: Finish your dinner and go do your homework because one day you'd probably be competing with those people for a job.
Years after the author wrote about globalization, today's young Americans are seeing the residuals of the shift in labor coupled with economic downturn. As of last month, they're making no effort to stay passive as thousands — referred to as Occupy Wall Street — have participated in protests in New York's financial district, amounting to arrests and frustration over corporate greed and staggering unemployment, and sprouting more gatherings across the country. Friedman recently stopped by MTV News to discuss his new book, "That Used to Be Us," and weigh in on the protests. "Movements are effective when they have a clear message, a clear agenda, leadership, and then translate that into political action," the New York Times columnist said. "There's still not a clear message yet, but there's a deep sense of injustice." While the rallies have yet to offer an organized voice, Friedman doesn't undermine the importance of their potential. "This is where the civil rights movements, this is where the women's rights women came from. People ultimately got to get out in the street." Unlike past eras, however, social media has been an integral component of the protests, which Friedman says just won't cut it. "Get out of Facebook and get into someone's face, ultimately is the only way you really get change." Competition might be fierce in a global market, but to stay ahead, Friedman encourages young Americans to learn from its own past. "China, I hope they succeed. India, I hope they succeed. But we don't have anything to learn from them. We need to go back and reread our own history books. The country we need to rediscover is America." In doing so, the economist reflects on the foundations that originally allowed the U.S. to thrive. "We didn't get here by accident, we got here because we had the greatest public-private partnership in the world, education, infrastructure, immigration, rules and government-funded research." As the protests continue to gain momentum, Friedman calls on young people to step up and take the challenge. "My generation, the baby boomers, we've done some very good things. We've also eaten through a lot of resources. Your generation, the MTV generation, they need to be the regeneration." Related Videos |
| Jay Sean Says Joe Jonas Tour Was 'Crazy,' 'Hectic' Posted: 07 Oct 2011 05:28 AM PDT The pair, along with JoJo, wrapped up their tour in New York City on Thursday.
For a minute there, Jay Sean was living the "fast life." After trekking across the country with the newly solo Joe Jonas and a reinvented JoJo, Sean and his crew wrapped up their tour on Thursday night in New York City.
The singer stopped by the MTV News offices to reflect on the outing just hours before he took the stage. "I mean, you know what the funny thing is, you wouldn't have thought to put us three together," he said of the "triple J's." "JoJo's great 'cause she's like the girl-power thing. And then me and Joe, the best thing about me and Joe being together, not only are the majority of our fans young girls, we have this overlap of fans. That's how we put this tour together. We're like, 'You know, man? It makes sense.' " While the trio didn't get to have much downtime together, they did manage to squeeze in some fun here and here. "It's been so crazy," he said. "It's been so hectic. [But] we've had fun along the way." Sean had some kind words for his tourmates just as they were prepping to say goodbye to one another. "Well, JoJo's a fantastic vocalist and she really brings it. I think that's always nice to watch and witness someone just sing really well," he said. "There's a lot of changes in [Joe's] set and things his fans are getting really excited about," he continued. "The slightest knee jerk from him and they go crazy. He's got a nice, well-put-together show. For me, as a fan of music, I love going when I have a chance to sit there and watch somebody do something. I love it." So, what's up next for everyone? Well, lots of new music. Sean will drop his delayed album, Freeze Time, later this fall, while Jonas' album Fast Life hits the streets on Tuesday. JoJo's next record, Jumping Trains, is slated for release early next year. Related Artists |
| Hugh Jackman Hopes To Saddle Up For 'Unbound Captives' Posted: 07 Oct 2011 02:31 AM PDT Robert Pattinson is also signed on to star in the Western, which has a 'beautiful script,' Jackman tells MTV News.
Pretty much from the moment the movie "Unbound Captives" was announced, fans were signed on and ready to camp out for opening-day tickets. Why? Because it's a Western with A-list actors.
Robert Pattinson, Hugh Jackman and Rachel Weisz are attached to it. Set in the 1800s, the film revolves around a woman (Weisz) whose husband is killed and two children are kidnapped by Comanche warriors. She enlists the help of a frontiersman (Jackman) to help rescue her children (one of whom will be played by Pattinson) from the tribe. When MTV News caught up with Jackman recently to discuss his latest movie, "Real Steel," we asked him for an update on "Captives." "I was thinking about that this morning. I'm absolutely attached, it is one of the best scripts I've read in a long time," Jackman admitted. "And as you know, Hollywood has a hard time with Westerns; it's hard to get them made and this is a really beautiful, beautiful script. It's written by Madeleine Stowe, who's going to direct it as well, so I really hope that one gets made. I think that's a really important movie." Earlier this year, Pattinson told MTV News he was also still very interested in making the film, but wasn't sure about when production might begin given that Stowe had committed to star in ABC's new hit "Revenge." Weisz has also expressed her continued interest in "Captives." "It's a great screenplay, and [Pattinson and Jackman] are both great actors," she said. "I like to work with all kinds of talented people, whatever the age." For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com. Related Videos |
| Nicki Minaj Recalls Pre-Success Suicidal Thoughts Posted: 07 Oct 2011 02:10 AM PDT Young Money MC opens up about a dark period in the past, plus big plans for the future in November Cosmo.
Nicki Minaj has soared to the top of the charts and collaborated with pop icons. With all of that success, it's hard to imagine that the Young Money MC once felt completely down on life. In the November issue of Cosmopolitan, the Harajuku Barbie opens up about a range of topics, including a particularly dark period when the MC actually considered taking her own life. "I kept having doors slammed on my face," Minaj recalled of her pre-fame struggles. "I felt like nothing was working. I had moved out on my own, and here I was thinking I'd have to go home. It was one dead end after another. At one point, I was, like, 'What would happen if I just didn't wake up?' That's how I felt. Like maybe I should just take my life?" Having gotten past those low points, the MC tells the magazine that she has firm plans for a bright future. "I will have put out five albums and will have an Oscar and Grammys," she predicted. "And I will be getting married and, a couple of years after that will have a bun in the oven. ... My whole life is about being Nicki Minaj now. It's a never-ending saga." Fresh off the release of her collabo with Willow Smith, Minaj had some words of wisdom to share about the differences between her and another star: Lady Gaga. The Queens native said that while both embrace over-the-top fashion, for the MC, it's not a 24/7 routine. "I think Gaga is freakin' dope for that," she said. "But I can't be bothered. Give me my sweats. I like transforming from completely raggedy to 'Ahhh, I'm ready.' That transformation gives me a high." Related Artists |
| Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga To Honor Teens At HALO Awards Posted: 06 Oct 2011 11:01 PM PDT TeenNick award show pairs activist teens with celebs who share interest in the same causes.
The TeenNick HALO Awards have recruited some of the biggest names in Hollywood and the music industry to honor teens who are out there doing good in the world. It was announced that Taylor Swift, , Jessica Biel and David Beckham will be on hand to shine some light on the good deeds being done by four teens. HALO, which stands for "Helping and Leading Others," links up teens with celebrities who share an affinity for the same causes. "We're proud to be presenting the third annual TeenNick HALO Awards, where we celebrate amazing teens who have touched the lives of many people, including the superstars who share their philanthropic spirit," Marjorie Cohn, President, Original Programming and Development, Nickelodeon, said about the show. "Our hope is the show will continue to inspire others to make positive changes in their communities and further foster a culture of social activism." Swift will be paired with 19-year-old James O'Dwyer, who started the Magnolia Disaster Relief, an aid program that aims to offer relief to rural areas hit by tornadoes. Emily-Anne Rigal, 17, has been paired with Lady Gaga thanks to her work to help stop bullying. She started the WeStopHate.org website, helping to shed light on the cause. Jessica Biel is paired with Shanoah Washington, an 18-year-old who created the Sista2Sista program, which aims to motivate young women. Finally, David Beckham was paired with Kyle Weiss, 18, who started the organization FUNDaFIELD, which builds soccer fields in Africa. The show will be hosted by Nick Cannon. It all takes place at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles on October 26. The broadcast will air on November 6 on Nick at Nite, with an encore on November 7 on TeenNick. "This generation of young people gives so much and now it's time to give back to them," Cannon said in a statement. "These are ordinary teens doing extraordinary things and I'm so proud to honor this year's TeenNick HALO Award honorees for their heroic efforts and unyielding commitment to helping others." Related Videos Related Artists |
| Rick Ross' <i>God Forgives</i> Will Have Others 'Chasing' Sound Posted: 07 Oct 2011 02:28 AM PDT J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League's Rook tells Mixtape Daily, 'We're gonna have a big presence on that album.'
Behind the Beats: J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League With each album, Rick Ross has grown — and not just physically. While his 2006 debut, Port of Miami, was filled with repetitive trap-rap anthems like "Hustlin'," "White House" and "Where My Money," the Bawse has expanded sonically with each release. Credit the J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League with part of Ross' musical elevation.
Crafting four tracks on Rozay's sophomore Trilla, including the Jay-Z-featuring "Maybach Music," JL have gone on to land tracks on each of the Bawse's following albums. Expect no different from the upcoming God Forgives, I Don't. "We just talked to the homey, and we're gonna have a big presence on that album," the League's Rook told Mixtape Daily while walking the black carpet at the 2011 BET Hip Hop Awards. With "Maybach Music," the Grammy Award-winning production trio — consisting of Rook, Colione and Kenny Barto — gave Ross a well-orchestrated instrumental, complete with strings and operatic background vocals. It's a formula they followed on the song's 2009 sequel, "Maybach Music Part 2," with Ross, T-Pain, Lil Wayne and Kanye West, as well on "Maybach Music Part 3" from Rozay's Teflon Don LP. With Ross tracks like "Aston Martin Music," "Rich Off Cocaine" and "Magnificent" already under their belt, J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League have proven to be more musical than many of their rap contemporaries. For God Forgives, I Don't, the Tampa, Florida, beatmakers look to help elevate Ross' sound once again. "It's funny because you think that [Ross] might've reached his peak," Rook said. "People think that they might've figured his sound out, but when they hear the new album, they're gonna be chasing that new sound." For other artists featured in Mixtape Daily, check out Mixtape Daily Headlines. Related Artists |
| Posted: 07 Oct 2011 12:55 AM PDT Singer will hit the road for 10 dates in November and December.
Lovatics should gear up for a string of dates that Demi Lovato has just announced for November and December. The "Skyscraper" singer announced on Friday (October 7) that she'll hit the road for 10 U.S. dates.
The mini tour kicks off on November 16 in Detroit with stops at the Foxwoods in Connecticut; Hershey, Pennsylvania; and Kansas City; two stops in her home state of Texas; and shows in New Orleans, St. Louis and Atlanta. It wraps up on December 3 in Chicago. Tickets go on sale on October 14. This marks Lovato's first major trek since leaving her tour with the Jonas Brothers last fall to seek treatment for personal issues. Lovato did, however, get her feet wet with two shows in Los Angeles and New York for two special dates in September, where she not only played her own tunes but also got everyone's attention with her cover of Lil Wayne's "How to Love." Last month, Lovato dropped her album Unbroken. Since her musical re-emergence, pop's latest comeback kid has garnered tons of critical praise. She also recently teased to MTV News that she's gearing up to release her second single, "Who's That Boy." "We're in the middle of getting the treatment and things put together," Lovato said of her next music video. "So hopefully we'll be shooting that soon." In fact, Lovato said that she's excited to try her hand at any number of projects that should come her way. "I'm looking forward to kind of just finding out what's next. I don't know what's next — if it's a movie, if it's touring, I don't know," she said. "We'll find out." Full list of Demi Lovato tour dates: »November 16 - Detroit, MI @ Fox Theatre |
| Talib Kweli Joins Occupy Wall Street Protest Posted: 06 Oct 2011 11:16 PM PDT Rapper did a cappella performance of unreleased song, 'Distractions,' at protest.
Talib Kweli lent his leadership and lyricism to the Occupy Wall Street protesters Thursday night in New York's Zuccotti Park. Nearly three weeks into their occupation, the movement has gained strength in numbers.
Kweli is no stranger to taking up social and political causes, but these protests have a firm grasp on his attention. "There's no other place in New York City to be," Kweli said. "People are taking their destiny in their own hands. This is one of the most American, if not the most American, things that I've ever seen. "When I see things like Occupy Wall Street, I just try to align myself with things that make sense," he continued. "Shame on me if I know something and don't spread it, you know? If I know, it becomes my responsibility to spread the information." Hundreds of protesters gathered in silence around the pulpit where Kweli stood, rapping a cappella without the aid of a mic. The audience hung on his every syllable as he performed an as-yet-unreleased song, "Distractions," a cutting indictment of American complacency in the face of important issues. "People are out here from all walks of life, all colors, all classes, people that have jobs, don't have jobs," said Res, Kweli's Idle Warship collaborator. "People just want to get the word out and say, 'Look, we're sick of this, we need a change, and what you guys are doing in the White House is not hitting it.' " Following the performance, Kweli used the protesters' human PA system (the speaker says a few words which are then repeated by the audience) to thank the activists for their dedication. "They want to know what the end game is?" Kweli asked. "This is the end game." Related Artists |
| 'Ides Of March': The Reviews Are In! Posted: 07 Oct 2011 12:37 AM PDT Critics argue that script doesn't match the talent level of the A-list cast in George Clooney's political drama.
George Clooney returns to the director's chair for the first time since 2008's "Leather Heads" in one of the first big releases of Oscar season with "The Ides of March."
But then again, we might just be interested in Ryan Gosling's third major role this year. Everything about "Ides of March," from the critically lauded cast and director to the political story line seems to scream for awards season attention, but does it live up to high expectations? Critics can't seem to agree, but the general consensus is that the script doesn't meet the talent level of the cast, which is pretty fantastic all around. We've rounded up some of the reviews to give you a better idea of what to look for this weekend at the movie theater. The Story The Direction The Screenplay The Ryan Gosling Factor The Supporting Cast The Final Word Check out everything we've got on "The Ides of March." For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com. Related Videos |
| Thomas Gold Shares Completed 'Sing2me': MTV Exclusive! Posted: 07 Oct 2011 02:06 AM PDT 'I learned a lot from him,' German DJ/producer tells MTV News of working with Swedish House Mafia's Axwell.
Berlin's presiding electronic artist Thomas Gold is back in the States, having just completed final production on a highly anticipated piece of music.
In April, MTV News first broke the news that Gold and Swedish House Mafia icon Axwell were exchanging ideas on a house music banger, which at the time was titled "Sing to Me." The Swedes debuted the song during their takeover of Pete Tong's BBC Essential Mix radio show last month. Fresh off his flight from Germany, Gold stopped by MTV's offices Thursday to announce that he'd completed his new single, and its new title is "Sing2me." Considering his provenance alone, Thomas Gold is a powerhouse producer whose star is on the rise. His own singles, "Agora" and "Marsch, Marsch," were put out by Steve Angello's Size Records and Toolroom Records. Those two songs, and his recent collabo with Dirty South, "Alive," have become house hits. His remix game this year alone has been nothing short of stellar, with official remixes for Lady Gaga's "Judas" and Adele's "Set Fire to the Rain." "I remember when I got the request for the Adele track," Gold recalled."I was like, 'Oh my god. Oh my god,' because I love the original, and should I really dare to do a remix of that? But I talked to my guys and said, 'Hey I would love to do that.' And at the end I got so much positive feedback. The 'Judas' mix as well. They are both highlights of my set, and I play them all the time." For months now, EDM fans have been anxiously awaiting the release of "Sing2me," a project that saw Gold exchanging ideas with Axwell (the two had success earlier this year with their remix of Hard Rock Sofa & St. Brothers' "Blow Up") this spring and summer. After exclusively sharing the final version of the song with MTV News, he explained that though it's been a long journey, he's happy with how far the song has come. "I just got the final mastering done a couple of days ago, and it's finally finished!" Gold gushed. "It was my song and I sent the idea to [Axwell] months ago. So I've been really working a long time. Because I had a certain idea of how the track had to be at the end. The vibe I wanted to create. How it should sound in the club. I tried many things [to get] it to where it is. I'm really happy now. "Axwell has been so supportive," he continued. "He really loved the track when I sent the rough demo to him. We exchanged files back and forth so he could do his little tweaks. He's a very musical producer, and this is very interesting to me because his tracks are always banging and have so much energy, but they're still very musical. So I learned a lot from him." "Sing2me," does not have a confirmed drop date, but it will be released on Axwell's Axtone imprint. If you're in the New York area, you can catch Thomas Gold performing at Pacha NYC Friday (October 7) night. Watch Thomas Gold exclusively previewing "Sing2me" and let us know your thoughts on the song in the comments below. Related Artists |
| Justin Bieber Surprises Rio Fans With Selena Gomez Posted: 07 Oct 2011 08:30 AM PDT On My World Tour stop, teen couple share stage for 'Who Says.'
Earlier this year, Justin Bieber hopped onstage with Selena Gomez during a stop on her tour, and on Thursday night, she returned the favor. The couple shared the stage as Bieber performed in Rio de Janeiro, his second night in the city on his My World Tour. As if debuting his Christmas single, "Mistletoe," wasn't enough of a present for his Brazilian fans, they got the chance to see the teen pop couple perform together. Bieber teased the performance in the hours leading up to his big show, tweeting, "Had a lil fun last night in RIO ... show #2 in RIO is 2nite ... got some very special guests with me 2nite. #Mistletoe." He later added, "Hearing @CobraStarship killing it out there ... almost time RIO ... i got a big surprise tonight. #BRAZIL #myworldtour." Footage from the performance shows Bieber walking offstage as Gomez comes out to sing her song "Who Says." Toward the end of the song, Bieber returned to sing a few lines, and the pair embraced before Gomez exited the stage. Bieber later tweeted, "RIO!!! CRAZY!! thanks to @selenagomez for helping me do something special for the crowd. a duet never hurt nobody. WHO SAYS." OK! magazine reports that Tuesday, the pair was spotted touring the city and taking a helicopter ride. On Wednesday night, Gomez was photographed backstage watching her boyfriend perform. Bieber's next tour stop is Sao Paolo. While rocking South America, Bieber announced he's releasing the official version of his single earlier than originally planned: "Thanks to all the love ITUNES is now releasing #MISTLETOE early ... now coming #OCT17th !!! spread the world ... we r going for our first #1!!" he tweeted. His November 1 holiday album, Under the Mistletoe, will feature appearances from Boyz II Men, Mariah Carey, Busta Rhymes, Usher and the Band Perry. Related Photos Related Artists |
| Vinny Remembers Pre-'Jersey Shore' Bullying Posted: 07 Oct 2011 08:30 AM PDT After 'DISconnected' premieres Monday at 9 p.m. ET/PT on MTV, Vinny will take part in an MTV News special discussing digital abuse.
Long before Vinny Guadagnino was beating the beat on "Jersey Shore" (and beating off the attention of club-hopping ladies), he was a gawky kid getting picked on by high school girls.
"I was really awkward-looking and I got bullied a lot — especially by the hot girls," he recently told MTV News. "I was cool enough to sit at the popular table with the hot girls, but at the same time, I wasn't the most popular kid at that table. They would make fun of me and it would really hurt me, because you don't want the girls thinking that you're a loser." How times have changed. But Vinny hasn't forgotten what it's like to be bullied, and he's made an effort to use his celebrity to bring attention to the issue, taking part in MTV's A Thin Line campaign to empower kids to identify, respond to, and stop the spread of digital abuse. On Monday, at 9 p.m. ET/PT, the channel is set to premiere "DISconnected," a film about online bullying. After the movie, Vinny will take part in an MTV News special to discuss these issues. Though he's now a celebrity with almost 2 million Twitter followers, he still encounters digital abuse. Not long ago, he posted a YouTube video with some of his young cousins in the background and, as he put it, "some hater called a little girl in the background fat." "I've learned not to let it affect me, but there are other people that can be affected by it," Vin added. "That's why I want to share a message with young kids that whenever someone is pointing the finger at you, they have a ton of problems themselves that are making them do that. That's their own insecurities talking." Be sure to tune in to "DISconnected" on Monday at 9 p.m. ET/PT on MTV, and check out the movie's Facebook page. Plus, stay tuned after the movie for MTV News' Q&A special. |
| Beyonce's 'Countdown' Video A Unanimous Hit With Fans Posted: 07 Oct 2011 05:20 AM PDT Singer doesn't disappoint with her dance moves and costume changes, baby bump and all.
Just as Beyoncé's "Countdown" music video hit the airwaves on Thursday night (October 6), MTV News took to the streets of Los Angeles to see what people thought about it. And judging by the reactions, B has pulled off another memorable performance.
The overall consensus was positive. Many people commented on the simplicity of the clip, and of course, her bumpin' belly. "I thought maybe having a baby bump would stop her from doing a lot of dance moves, but she was still moving around [and] still looking good," Justin Abello said. "I thought it was beautiful," Amethyst Franklin said, referring to B's pregnant belly. "I think it's great that she's showing it off. I think she should be super-proud of it and she is, and that's awesome." Find out what the "Countdown" director had to say about B's video shoot! "I think [the video] was super-fun, super-dance-y, lots of energy — I think a lot of people will like it and it's super-simple too," Franklin continued. She pointed out that her favorite part of the video was at the end when Beyoncé sports a striped shirt while posturing in a chair. "Plain, simple, but not too much simple," Cameron Adams said after watching the video. "I feel like it caters more to the women audience — women that can dance — especially nowadays, like the whole dance scene is kinda big nowadays, so I would say it caters more to that. But then again, it is a Beyoncé [video,] so with her it's art, dancing, colors, things of that sort." But there was at least one thing that Beyoncé threw in for the fellas, according to Adams. "That men's shirt on, with the butt cheeks out, I like that part — that was my favorite part," he said with a smile. Adams friend had a similar opinion. "I thought it was simple yet sexy, as always — she knows how to make a good video," Darren Ford said. "She knows what her fans are looking for. Her dance moves are always on point." Check out what we spotted, and let us know what we missed! Taylor Hodges couldn't agree more. "It was really cool! She dances really, really well. Gosh, I wish I could dance like her!" Hodges mentioned that she would love to snag a few of Beyoncé's moves next time she hits a dance floor. She also thought "Countdown" stands strong in Beyoncé's lineage of videos, rating it a nine out of 10. Her friend Taji McKinley bumped that number up one notch, saying the video was definitely a 10. "I like the parts when they're snapping and I just like how all the dancers are moving super-fast but it looks slow at the same time. I like that," McKinley said. |
| 'Real Steel': The Reviews Are In! Posted: 06 Oct 2011 10:04 PM PDT Hugh Jackman flick's 'well-staged' fighting sequences and father-son spats leave critics 'pleasantly surprised.'
Moviegoers have proven their affection for gigantic robots smashing the ever-loving sparkplugs out of each other in the heat of war — thanks for that, Michael Bay! — but machines beating each other into a tarry pulp purely for sport in the middle of a heartfelt family drama? That's something the Autobots and Decepticons have yet to cover.
But it seems that "Real Steel," from "Night at the Museum" director Shawn Levy and "Wolverine" leading man Hugh Jackman, is more than meets the eye. Those who originally targeted Levy's first foray into the action arena as nothing more than a big-screen Rock 'Em Sock 'Em Robots have seemingly been proven wrong, with critics praising "Real Steel" for its strong performances, moving story and, yes, the primal pleasure derived from watching two cybernetic gladiators tear each other to bits. Read on for a veritable scrap heap of "Real Steel" reviews: The Story "Taking place in a not-too-distant future that's neither utopian nor dystopian, but kind of semi-topian, 'Real Steel' follows Charlie Kenton (Hugh Jackman), a former boxer who participates in the sport of robot fighting. (According to the 'Steel' timeline, human boxers will get out of the game soon because they can't hit hard enough to make audiences happy — so enjoy those humans pounding on each other while you still can.) In a world where there's no more human boxing, Charlie is a charmer/degenerate/bum lugging around a scrappy bot who fights at state fairs. He's not at the level of 'league fights' — you know, the World Robot Boxing League, which is known, because it must be, as 'the show.' " — Linda Holmes, NPR The Man and his Boy "As Charlie, Jackman is mostly surface gloss — he knows how to work a greasy tee and a bad attitude, glaring and growling at everyone. He softens slightly with [Evangeline] Lilly's Bailey (so nice to see her bruised, buff beauty back since 'Lost' wrapped). But it is with [Dakota] Goyo that Jackman warms up. Their father-son spats, truly some of the film's best sparring, is what gives it heart. Not 'Rocky' heart, or 'Raging Bull' heart, mind you, but 'Real' enough." — Betsy Sharkey, Los Angeles Times The 'Bot Bouts "The robot, despite its unyielding metallic expression and the glowing blue eyes, is surprisingly endearing, especially when he's doing the pre-match two-step with Max. ... As a 'sparring' robot meant only for practice fighting with other robots, he's a long-shot contender in the 'Rocky' mold. But with ex-boxer Charlie's moves — transmitted via voice command software — he's suddenly got a shot at the title against the unbeaten Zeus. And, as in the original 'Rocky' mold ... well, that would be too much of a spoiler. ... Lovers of blood sport action (or perhaps crankcase oil in this case) are going to enjoy the well-staged fighting sequences, which are tension-filled and exciting and will have many writhing in their seats." — Bruce DeMara, Toronto Star The Mechanic Message "As much as 'Real Steel' is an escapist pop confection, it forces you to consider the evolving relationship between humans and machines at a time when robots are replacing people in the workplace and in war. The movie doesn't question our ever-deepening love affair with technology and foolish trust in it. As increasing numbers of people are kept mobile through spare parts, whether flesh, plastic or metal, we are ourselves becoming more droidlike every year. Behind it all is a collective fantasy of invulnerability, omnipotence and eternal life. 'Real Steel' at least acknowledges that machines require maintenance to be superhuman." — Stephen Holden, New York Times The Verdict " 'Real Steel' is a real movie. It has characters, it matters who they are, it makes sense of its action, it has a compelling plot. This is the sort of movie, I suspect, young viewers went to the 'Transformers' movies looking for. Readers have told me they loved and identified with their Transformers toys as children. [The robot] Atom must come close to representing their fantasies. Sometimes you go into a movie with low expectations and are pleasantly surprised." — Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times Check out everything we've got on "Real Steel." For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com. Related Videos |
| Johnny Depp Signs On For Dr. Seuss Biopic Posted: 07 Oct 2011 06:56 AM PDT Actor, set to produce film, might star as the beloved children's author.
In between stints as a pirate, a scissor-handed freak and a chocolate-factory wizard, Johnny Depp has played a real-life hopped-up writer, a cross-dressing director and a notorious bank robber. Now, the star has signed on to work on a film about one of the most-beloved authors of all time: Dr. Seuss. According to the Hollywood Reporter, Depp will produce and potentially star as Seuss (born Theodor Geisel), author of children's classics such as "Green Eggs and Ham," "The Cat in the Hat," "Horton Hears a Who!" and "How the Grinch Stole Christmas!" In addition to being turned into a number of hit movies ("Grinch" and "Cat in the Hat"), Geisel's books have sold more than 200 million copies worldwide. The movie is unlikely to rely as heavily on CGI as Depp's $1 billion-grossing foray into "Alice in Wonderland" with director Tim Burton, but it's possible the Seuss film will include animated elements. Universal and production house Illumination Entertainment, currently joined in postproduction on an animated adaptation of Seuss' "The Lorax," and Infinitum Nihil also will work on the biopic. Seuss began his career in the late 1920s as a magazine illustrator, then shifted to drawing ads for companies including General Electric and NBC during the Great Depression, before shifting to political cartoons during World War II and, finally, turning his focus to children's books in the 1950s. Among his first efforts was "Horton," as well as 1957's "Cat in the Hat" and "Grinch." Geisel died of throat cancer in September 1991 at the age of 87. Depp already has a number of planes on the runway, including a turn as journalist Paul Kemp in "The Rum Diary," a reported cameo in Martin Scorsese's 3-D adaptation of "Hugo Cabret," another collabo with Burton on "Dark Shadows" and a possible starring role as Tonto in the stalled big-screen remake of "The Lone Ranger." For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com. Related Photos |
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