Big Brother Africa Season 6 Housemates

Big Brother Amplified 1

The Season 6 of the incredibly popular Big Brother Africa has been Amplified. Running 91 days and 24/7 with a dream grand prize of USD 200 000, this season of Africa’s biggest reality show will include more of the drama, the emotion, the excitement and the suspense that have made the series a firm fan favourite. The following are all the 26 lucky Housemates who made the final list from the thousands who applied from all over sub Saharan Africa.

Alex
Alex
Age: 31
Hometown: Accra , Ghana
Occupation: Unemployed / Designer
Biography: Alex once worked in the fashion district in New York and believes in empowerment of the individual. He says that he wanted to be in Big Brother Africa because he believes he “can bring it home for Ghana ”. He is confident that Africa will like him, and his recreational activities include video gaming and designing.

Bernadina
Bernadina
Age: 21
Hometown: Keetmanshoop , Namibia
Occupation: Construction
Biography: Her favourite place in Namibia is Rehoboth because “it’s a nice party place”. Bernadina says that if she wins the game, she’ll give a share of the money to a lady who is establishing an organization that helps children improve their reading skills.

Bhoke
Bhoke
Age: 26
Hometown: Dar es Salaam , Tanzania
Occupation: TV Broadcaster
Biography: Bhoke says having being selected to be part of Big Brother Amplified is her greatest achievement so far. She says viewers should keep an eye on her because she is unpredictable, fun, will keep them guessing and she’s a great person to be around.

Confidence
Confidence
Age: 37
Hometown: Accra
Occupation: CEO of MultiMedia Company / Owner Aphrodisiac Nightclub
Biography: This adventurous daredevil loves Angelina Jolie, soup or stew, and throwing parties at her house. Confidence would love to turn out like her role model aunt who, she believes, is “sexy, strong and principled”. Whilst in the game, she will miss her son, and two dogs the most.

Danny
Danny
Age: 34
Hometown: Addis Ababa , Ethiopia
Occupation: Self Employed
Biography: Describing himself as cool, adventurous and funny, Danny believes that “when life flips you upside down, stand still” – good advice given to him by a friend. Although surprised to have been chosen to participate in Big Brother, Danny says if he wins, he will use the money to start his dream business. When he goes into the Big Brother house Danny admits the thing he will miss most is his freedom and friends.

Ernest
Ernest
Age: 28
Hometown: Kampala , Uganda
Occupation: Public Relations Consultant
Biography: Ernest looks up to his role model, Diddy because, he explains: “it’s easy to see how a man who can’t really dance or sing has made himself into a world-class brand that is bankable and desirable”. He admits that he can be “a little annoying” when he chooses to push people’s buttons.

Felicia
Felicia
Age: 24
Hometown: Lilongwe , Malawi
Occupation: Purchaser
Biography: Felicia is in a relationship and has a four year old child. Given the opportunity, Felicia would like to visit Japan right now to feel the impact of the Tsunami and offer support to victims of the recent natural disaster. She entered Big Brother Amplified to represent her country, to do her part in making her country proud and to change her life and the lives of many others.

Hanni
Hanni
Age: 22
Hometown: Addis Ababa
Occupation: Singer and Student
Biography: Hanni is a 5th year Law student with a passion for Reggae. She says she entered Big Brother Amplified because she feels she is at a point in her life where she feels she wants to learn more about herself. She says audiences should watch her on Big Brother because she is “honest, funny and interesting”.

Jossy
Jossy
Age: 28
Hometown: Windhoek , Namibia
Occupation: Recording Artist / Marketing, Sales and Ad Manager
Biography: The multi-lingual Jossy concedes his worst habit is cleaning and keeping everything in order. Though he entered Big Brother by accident, he will continue to surprise. The best advice he has ever received is: “Never envy those that are living a good life and rather learn from them to get there as well.”

Karen
Karen
Age: 27
Hometown: Jos , Nigeria
Occupation: Unemployed
Biography: Born in Jos, Karen lists her mother as her role model. She likes people who are similar to her: fun and happy, and dislikes people who are boring, fake and dishonest. Karen relaxes by “chilling with friends” and would love to visit Spain because “it is sunny, beautiful and exotic”.

Kim
Kim
Age: 25
Hometown: Livingstone , Zambia
Occupation: Beautician
Biography: Kim confesses she adores “cute boys” like Chris Brown and “fab ladies” like Beyonce. She wants viewers to watch her on the show because she is “real, fresh and fab”. If she wins, she will help in the fight against Cancer in Zambia , help her sisters with their education and boost her media and Cosmetology career.

Lomwe
Lomwe
Age: 27
Hometown: Blantyre , Malawi
Occupation: Radio and Club DJ
Biography: Lomwe, reckons he is handsome and lives like according to the following mantra: “ride till the wheels fall off”. He hopes his charisma and great sense of humour will help him win the USD200 000, so he can open his own radio station at home in Malawi .

Lotus
Lotus
Age: 24
Hometown: Dar es Salaam , Tanzania
Occupation: TV Presenter
Biography: Lotus’s happiest memory is falling in love for the first time. She likes spending time with fun people who like to enjoy life and dislikes “people who are in their heads”. Lotus, who is also a dancer and choreographer, regards herself as quite a trend-setter. Her worst habit: “using too much toilet paper!”

Luclay
Luclay
Age: 28
Hometown: Cape Town
Occupation: Actor / Acting Coach
Biography: Luclay is an actor and acting coach born in Cape Town , his favourite place in South Africa . He says he is “inspired by people who live within their means and are happy with their inheritance on this planet”. He says his mom and cousin are his role models, because “they have dedicated their lives to helping everyone around them”.

Michael
Michael
Age: 32
Hometown: Maputo , Mozambique
Occupation: Hairdresser
Biography: Michael, who counts his father and Denzel Washington as his role models, entered Big Brother Amplified because he wanted to have fun and experience different cultures. He enjoys spending time with quiet people and good listeners and encourages viewers to watch him because he has a lot to share with the audience. His pet peeves: Gossipers and aggressive people.

Millicent
Millicent
Age: 28
Hometown: Nairobi , Kenya
Occupation: Actress
Biography: Talkative and passionate, Millicent loves spending time with open-minded people. She can hold a conversation in French, English and Swahili and describes herself as having a great sense of humour. The young Nollywood actress is all about empowering girls and loves watching cartoons and Soapies.

Mumba
Mumba
Age: 24
Hometown: Lusaka
Occupation: Radio DJ
Biography: Mumba is a radio DJ and “happily single”. She is most proud of getting her Diploma in Journalism and says the hardest thing she ever had to do was to “let go of the past”. Mumba entered Big Brother Amplified for one reason: “I really, really want the money!” She says if she wins she’ll splash out on a new luxury German sedan coupe, a house and “so much more”.

Nic
Nic
Age: 26
Hometown: Nairobi
Occupation: Television Producer
Biography: The happily single Nic calls himself “cheeky, spontaneous, funny, intelligent and a good listener”. He also admits to being bit of a flirt, and reckons this will definitely get the viewers’ attention when they tune in to watch the “crazy” guy from Kenya .

Nkuli
Nkuli
Age: 23
Hometown: Student
Occupation: Johannesburg
Biography: Romance novel lover, Nkuli, doesn’t have a role model, because she explains: “believing in being the best me I can be, and not trying to be like someone else is the best thing I can do for myself”. Once inside the house she says: “I believe I will think of the outside world – but miss it? Not much, because the house is where my mind will be.”

Miss P
“Miss P” – Peo
Age: 24
Hometown: Gaborone , Botswana
Occupation: Freelance, Communications
Biography: Miss P is passionate about charity work and the fight against AIDS in Botswana . When she was in high school, she helped start clubs to raise awareness for both causes. Her special talent is “being a warm person – I’ve always been able to make people feel at home and safe with me,” she says.

Sharon
Sharon O
Age: 25
Hometown: Kampala , Uganda
Occupation: Artist / Musician
Biography: Sharon O is a free spirited, ambitious hard worker, who is friendly and reserved at the same time. Her personal motto is “work hard to achieve a comfortable life”. She loves looking at the calming Nile when in Jinja ( Uganda ) and would love to go to Vegas one day.

Vimbai
Vimbai
Age: 24
Hometown: Harare , Zimbabwe
Occupation: Model
Biography: With a Social Sciences degree and fluency in French and Basic Serbian, Vimbai is a force to be reckoned with. She entered Big Brother to re-launch her modeling and entertainment career on an African platform. If she wins the show, she’ll invest her winnings in her country and donate some to charity.

Vina
Vina
Age: 26
Hometown: Lagos , Nigeria
Occupation: Radio Presenter
Biography: Vina, describes her personality as “amplified” and dislikes people who are lazy, unfriendly and think they are better than others. She’s confident of her chances on the show and promises she will be outrageous.

Wendall
Wendall
Age: 23
Hometown: Harare
Occupation: Pilot
Biography: Wendall is a pilot and his motto is “you win some, you lose some”. While he jokes that he doesn’t have any specific special talents, he also says “you never know what might come out on a crazy night in the house!”

Weza
Weza
Age: 26
Hometown: Luanda , Angola
Occupation: TV Presenter, Model
Biography: She is super social and likes spending time with happy, fun, straight forward people, although she admits her bad habit is that she talks too much. She is currently single, and says she will miss her family when she goes into the House. Her favourite place in Angola is Luanda .

Zeus
Zeus
Age: 24
Hometown: Gaborone , Botswana
Occupation: Entrepreneur, Artist, Marketer
Biography: This Hip-Hop star has been in a relationship for two years, but he’s determined to use the time in the House to polish his social skills and establish a deeper connection with himself.
Although music is his first love, he has a Bachelor of Business and Commerce degree.

Stars at 2011 African Movie Academy Awards

The 7th edition of the prestigious annual African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) was a grand event on Sunday night March 27, 2011 with the constellation of Nollywood stars and icons and the leading stars of African movies, stars from Hollywood were among the special guests and other dignitaries gracing the colourful red carpet. The following photographs are from the photo album of the event.

AMAA 2011 Peace Anyiam-Osigwe


Photographs:

Best Young Actor, ASA Drama School actor Edward Kagutuzi, star of “Mirror Boy”
Ms. Peace Anyiam-Osigwe, CEO of African Movie Academy Awards
The hosts Nollywood stars Jim Iyke and Nse Ikpe Etim
Olu Jacobs, a highly esteemed Nigerian actor and Nollywood pioneer
Tee Mac, Accomplished Nigerian musician and composer performing on stage
Nollywood diva Kate Henshaw-Nuttal
Nollywood diva Rita Dominic on the red carpet
Nollywood star actress Chioma Chukwuka-Akpotha looking so radiant in her evening gown
Top Nigerian award winning filmmaker Kunle Aolayan
Top Ghanaian actor Michel Majid striking a pose
Michel Majid
Top Nigerian journalist and film critic Steve Ayorinde and a VIP
Hakeem Kae-Kazim

A female entertainer on stage

Tribute to Elizabeth Taylor, Queen of Hollywood

Farewell Elizabeth Taylor, Queen of Hollywood

Elizabeth Taylor Gold
Dame Elizabeth Rosemond “Liz” Taylor, DBE (February 27, 1932 – March 23, 2011)

Our beloved Elizabeth Taylor, the beautiful and wonderful Queen of Hollywood passed on yesterday at 79.

Elizabeth-Taylor

Elizabeth Taylor was the quintessential American Sweetheart of Tinsel town from her very first film Universal Pictures’ There’s One Born Every Minute, at the tender age of nine in 1942 to MGM’s National Velvet that shot her to limelight in 1944. She was fantastic in many other films, but it was in Cleopatra the  1963 film directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz that she attained her golden age in Hollywood and earned her crown as the Queen of Hollywood.

She won the Academy Award for Best Actress twice and many other coveted awards for her awesome talents as an actress of all seasons from the Golden Era of Hollywood to the end.

Liz was world famous for getting married eight times to seven husbands.
She passed away on March 23, 2011 in the loving arms of her four children at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, California.
May the beautiful soul Elizabeth Taylor rest in peace.

The following are statements from the Elizabeth Taylors AIDS Foundation and Elizabeth Arden.

23 Mar 2011 14:42 Africa/Lagos

Statement on Elizabeth Taylor

PR Newswire

LOS ANGELES, March 23, 2011

LOS ANGELES, March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Legendary actress, businesswoman, and fearless activist Elizabeth Taylor died peacefully today in Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles. She was surrounded by her children- Michael Wilding, Christopher Wilding, Liza Todd, and Maria Burton. She was 79 years old. In addition to her children, she is survived by 10 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.

The actress had been hospitalized six weeks ago with congestive heart failure, a condition with which she had struggled for some years. Though she had recently suffered a number of complications, her condition had stabilized and it was hoped that she would be able to return home. Sadly, this was not to be.

Her son, Michael Wilding, said tonight:

“My Mother was an extraordinary woman who lived life to the fullest, with great passion, humor, and love. Though her loss is devastating to those of us who held her so close and so dear, we will always be inspired by her enduring contribution to our world. Her remarkable body of work in film, her ongoing success as a businesswoman, and her brave and relentless advocacy in the fight against HIV/AIDS, all make us all incredibly proud of what she accomplished. We know, quite simply, that the world is a better place for Mom having lived in it. Her legacy will never fade, her spirit will always be with us, and her love will live forever in our hearts.”

A private family funeral later this week. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation (elizabethtayloraidsfoundation.org). People wanting to send personal messages can log onto http://www.facebook.com/pages/Elizabeth-Taylor-Tribute.

It is respectfully asked that the public allow the family privacy at this difficult time.

Details of a memorial service will be announced at a later date.

SOURCE The Pool

CONTACT: Sally Morrison, The Pool, +1-424-901-8803, Info@insidethepool.com

Web Site: http://elizabethtayloraidsfoundation.org

23 Mar 2011 15:05 Africa/Lagos

Elizabeth Arden Statement on the Passing of Elizabeth Taylor

PR Newswire

NEW YORK, March 23, 2011

NEW YORK, March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Elizabeth Arden, Inc. (Nasdaq: RDEN), a global prestige beauty products company, has issued the following statement regarding the passing of Elizabeth Taylor.

“It is with deep sadness that we learned of the passing of Elizabeth Taylor, the legendary actress, activist and businesswoman. As her business partner in the fragrance industry, we have held her in the highest esteem and have had tremendous respect for her extraordinary compassion, creativity and business acumen.

“With the launch of her first fragrance in 1987, Elizabeth Taylor’s Passion, she built a fragrance empire and one of the most successful brands in fragrance history. White Diamonds remains a best seller almost 20 years after its 1991 introduction, a testimony to her transcendent and enduring appeal. Our best tribute to Elizabeth Taylor will be to continue the legacy of the brands she created and loved so much.

“Her sense of humor, passion for life, never-ending dedication and generosity of spirit will be remembered by all of us. She will be deeply missed.”

E. Scott Beattie

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

About Elizabeth Arden:

Elizabeth Arden is a global prestige beauty products company with an extensive portfolio of prestige beauty brands sold in over 100 countries. The company’s brand portfolio includes Elizabeth Arden skincare, color, and fragrance products, PREVAGE® anti-aging formulas, the celebrity fragrance brands of Britney Spears, Elizabeth Taylor, Mariah Carey, Taylor Swift, Hilary Duff, and Usher; the designer fragrance brands of Juicy Couture, Alberta Ferretti, Alfred Sung, Badgley Mischka, Bob Mackie, Geoffrey Beene, Halston, John Varvatos, Kate Spade, Lucky Brand, and Rocawear; and the lifestyle fragrance brands Curve, Giorgio Beverly Hills, and PS Fine Cologne.

SOURCE Elizabeth Arden, Inc.

CONTACT: Gretchen Dowling, Elizabeth Arden, +1-212-261-1249, gretchen.dowling@elizabetharden.com

Web Site: http://www.elizabetharden.com

DStv MARCH 2011 HIGHLIGHTS

MultiChoice DSTV

DStv MARCH 2011 HIGHLIGHTS

M-NET (DStv channel 101/102)

dstv

The Hurt Locker: An intense portrayal of elite soldiers who have one of the most dangerous jobs in the world: disarming bombs in the heat of combat. When a new sergeant, James, takes over a highly trained bomb disposal team amidst violent conflict, he surprises his two subordinates, Sanborn and Eldridge, by recklessly plunging them into a deadly game of urban combat. James behaves as if he’s indifferent to death. As the men struggle to control their wild new leader, the city explodes into chaos, and James’ true character reveals itself in a way that will change each man forever. Starring Jeremy Renner, Anthony Mackie and Brian Geraghty, DStv audiences can tune in to The Hurt Locker on M-Net on Sunday 13 March.

Bounty Hunter: A bounty hunter learns that his next target is his ex-wife, a reporter working on a murder cover-up. Soon after their reunion, the always-at-odds duo finds themselves on a run-for-their-lives adventure. Milo Boyd, a down-on-his-luck bounty hunter, gets his dream job when he is assigned to track down his bail-jumping ex-wife, reporter Nicole Hurly. He thinks all that’s ahead is an easy payday, but when Nicole gives him the slip so she can chase a lead on a murder cover-up, Milo realizes that nothing ever goes simply with him and Nicole. The exes continually one-up each other – until they find themselves on the run for their lives. They thought their promise to love, honor and obey was tough – staying alive is going to be a whole lot tougher. Starring Jennifer Aniston and Gerard Butler, the movie will be screened on M-Net on DStv on Sunday 20 March.

Sherlock Holmes: Detective Sherlock Holmes and his stalwart partner Watson engage in a battle of wits and brawn with a nemesis whose plot is a threat to all of England. After finally catching serial killer Lord Blackwood, legendary sleuth Sherlock Holmes and his assistant Dr. Watson can close yet another successful case. But when Blackwood mysteriously returns from the grave and resumes his killing spree, Holmes must take up the hunt once again. Contending with his partner’s new fiancée and the dimwitted head of Scotland Yard, the dauntless detective must unravel the clues that will lead him into a twisted web of murder and deceit – and the deadly embrace of temptress Irene Adler. Starring Robert Downey Jr, Jude Law and Rachel McAdams, DStv audiences can watch Sherlock Holmes on M-Net on Sunday 27 March.

UNIVERSAL CHANNEL (DStv channel 108)

Meteor Storm: A devastating disaster movie starring Michael Trucco (Battlestar Galactica), Kari Matchett and Eric Johnson (Flash Gordon). When a rogue comet orbits the Earth, astronomer Michelle Young is enthralled by the once-in-a-lifetime celestial event. However, her wonder soon turns to terror when the comet causes meteors to fall from the sky and bombard the city of San Francisco delivering an unstoppable torrent of chaos to the city streets. While the city’s disaster official tries to evacuate the terrified population, Michelle investigates why San Francisco is at the centre of this cataclysm and how to halt the destructive storm. The movie will be screened on the Universal Channel on DStv on Thursday 24 March at 20:00 CAT.

DStv audiences can also look out for season 1 of CSI New York on the Universal Channel: A riveting police drama moving the award-winning formula to New York, where forensics experts and detectives must scrutinise the evidence found at crime scenes and track down the culprits. The New York team is headed up by Detective Mac Taylor, (Gary Sinise: Forrest Gump, Apollo 13), a no nonsense ex-Marine Major who is traumatised by the death of wife in the 9/11 attacks on the city and suffers from chronic insomnia. Mac is partnered by Detective Jo Danville, an experienced investigator driven by her empathy by the victims of crime. DStv audiences can watch CSI New York on the Universal Channel on Mondays at 20:00 CAT.

SONY ENTERTAINMENT TELEVISION (DStv channel 113)

Clear and Present Danger: Harrison Ford (the original Star Wars trilogy, Blade Runner) returns as Jack Ryan in yet another compelling spy thriller based on Tom Clancy’s bestsellers. This time, the enemy is within his own government. As a high-ranking CIA official, Ryan is drawn in to investigate the murder of one of the president’s closest friends. However, unbeknown to him, he is being double-crossed from within his own ranks as the US government becomes embroiled in an illegal war against a Colombian drug cartel. Anne Archer is back as Ryan’s wife, and the film also stars Willem Dafoe (SpiderMan 3, The Boondock Saints). Clear and Present Danger was nominated for two Oscars®, and won a Blockbuster Award for favourite actor as well as an ASCAP award. Screening on Sony Entertainment Television on DStv on Sunday 13 March at 20:35 CAT.

The Sum of All Fears: Ben Affleck (Pearl Harbour, Good Will Hunting) is the latest actor to assume the on-screen role of Tom Clancy’s fictional CIA analyst Jack Ryan, who in this film must thwart a potential all-out war between the USA and Russia. Russia’s president dies and an enigmatic unknown succeeds him, opening the door for a return to frosty Cold War-era relations between East and West. Tensions escalate even more when the CIA starts suspecting that Russia is developing nuclear weapons – and that the target is the States. This fast-paced thrill-fest also features Oscar® winner Morgan Freeman (Shawshank Redemption, Invictus) and Liev Schreiber (The Manchurian Candidate, CSI). Screening on Sony Entertainment Television on DStv on Sunday 20 March at 20:35 CAT.

The Pelican Brief: Based on a John Grisham page-turner, this gripping thriller stars Julia Roberts (Pretty Woman, Erin Brockovich) as a character that Grisham apparently wrote with Roberts specifically in mind. She stars as a law student who stumbles across the truth behind the assassination of two Supreme Court justices. The massive conspiracy she uncovers places her life – and those of others – in grave danger, and the only ally she can turn to is a journalist (Denzel Washington – Training Day, Malcolm X). The two stars both went on to win Academy Awards® for their roles in subsequent films. The Pelican Brief won an ASCAP Award and is a solidly entertaining thriller, brimming with intrigue and boosted by solid performances by the two young leads. Watch The Pelican Brief on Sony Entertainment Television on DStv on Sunday 27 March at 20:35 CAT.

Also tune in for the season 3 of the series Leverage on Sony Entertainment television. Oscar® winner Timothy Hutton (best supporting actor for Ordinary People) returns to our screens as Nathan Ford, a former insurance fraud investigator who now heads up an elite group of modern-day Robin Hoods – who target the corrupt, the unjust and the downright greedy to right the wrongs that have been perpetrated on innocent citizens. The third season of this stylish drama series opens with Ford still in prison, having been captured by the FBI. The other members of his crack team of con artists, professional thieves and computer whizzes plot to help their mastermind escape – but find themselves blackmailed by a mysterious stranger into taking down an infamous criminal in the process. The series also stars Gina Bellman (Coupling, Jekyll) and Christian Kane (Angel, Into the West) as members of Ford’s highly skilled group of grifters who use their criminal prowess to settle scores. The series continues on Sony Entertainment Television on DStv on Thursdays at 20:30 CAT.

BBC ENTERTAINMENT (DStv channel 120)

Top Gear is the world’s premier motoring show. A consistent ratings hit in the UK, the show is no less popular across the globe having been licensed to more than 50 international broadcasters, and has local versions in Russia, Australia and the USA. The Dalai Lama, the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader, is a fan and the programme has a global audience of around over 100 million. The 15th series sees the Top Gear team, Jeremy Clarkson, Richard (The Hamster) Hammond and James (Captain Slow) May carry out weekly power tests on the world’s most exciting super-cars, take part in daring challenges and look back at some of the stranger aspects of motoring history.

James May explores how close he can drive to the tip of a volcano in the first episode of the new series, while Jeremy Clarkson visits Yorkshire to investigate why there aren’t more 3-wheeled cars in the world by taking the iconic Robin Reliant for an eventful test drive. Meanwhile, Richard Hammond is in Sweden to take part in a race against hardcore snowmobilers. All of the favourite elements from previous series are back as well, with the Star in a Reasonably Priced Car section featuring some Hollywood A-listers in Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz, as well as Jeff Goldblum (The Fly), Rupert Grint (Harry Potter) and Formula 1 star Rubens Barrichello. The stars will also be driving a new car this year, but what will happen to the old Chevrolet Lacetti? Full of stunts, challenges and special features, Top Gear is self-deprecating, inclusive and passionate – there are no boring statistics and impenetrable conversations about camshafts and tyre pressures. Instead you get authoritative information and entertainment.
Series 15 airs on BBC Entertainment on DStv on Wednesdays in March at 20.30 CAT

DISCOVERY CHANNEL (DStv channel 121)

Stan Lee’s Superhumans: As part of ‘Incredible People’ night on Discovery Channel, we will take a closer look at ordinary people who possess extraordinary abilities and remarkable skills due to their genetic differences. Our exciting line-up of premiere programming features Stan Lee – the man behind some of the biggest comic book heroes of all time – who will go in search of people with genuine, real life super-powers in Stan Lee’s Superhumans. Here, Stan will visit Daniel Browning-Smith, the world’s most flexible man, and a man claiming to be immune to electrocution. Watch as these ‘superhumans’ undergo scientific testing to help explain their astonishing gifts, and then they are put to the ultimate test to demonstrate what separates them from every other person on the planet. From Tuesday 15 March at 20:00 CAT on the Discovery Channel on DStv.

AirCrash Confidential: Every air crash is a catastrophe that leaves behind bereaved families and ruined lives. With each air disaster that occurs a lesson is learnt, and it is because of each disaster that we now know how to build safer planes, evacuate passengers more swiftly, and avoid air collisions altogether. AirCrash Confidential investigates various aviation disasters that have occurred over time, and reveals how and why tragedies still happen today. This gripping new series will explore why, despite repeated warnings, terrorists remain one step ahead of airport security, and how sometimes only a seating plan error has managed to save hundreds of people from being blown up in mid-air. Using powerful personal accounts from survivors, pilots and witnesses as well as comments from aviation experts and CGI special effects, each episode will explore how human error can never be entirely eliminated. Tune in on the Discovery Channel on DStv on Thursdays (10, 17 and 24 March) at 20:55 CAT.

E! ENTERTAINMENT TELEVISION (DStv channel 124)

Kourtney and Kim Take New York: Kourtney and Kim are heading to New York to open a new Dash store, but it’s never all business with these stylish sisters. There’s also world-class shopping, A-list nightclubs and drama with Scott. And now that Kim’s newly single, she’s taking the New York dating scene by storm. Get ready for a sinfully good season. Kourtney and Kim Take New York premieres on E! on DStv on Sunday 27 March at 23:00 CAT.

Plus tune in for more Kendra: What a difference a year can make! Following the most tumultuous twelve months of their relationship, Kendra and Hank Baskett have emerged stronger and more committed than ever to one another. From cross country moves in pursuit of Hank’s football dreams to sharing with fans the truth about her troubled youth, to finding the proper balance between raising baby Hank and her very demanding career, Kendra has remained steadfastly determined to “do it all.” In this third season, Kendra and Hank move their new family to Philadelphia as Hank starts the new football season with the Eagles. Tune in to Kendra on E! on DStv on Sundays at 23:00 CAT.

SONYMAX (DStv channel 126)

Scare Tactics: Hosted by Shannen Doherty of Charmed and Beverly Hills 90210 fame, this is a “candid camera” style reality show. It involves a hidden camera being set up to record pranks played on unsuspecting victims by their so-called friends and family – but with a touch of the macabre thrown in for scary effect. Special effects and stage make-up are used to recreate terrifying scenes and horror-movie clichés to scare the living daylights out of victims. Of course, their reactions are being recorded from multiple angles. So look out for a faux UFO abduction, Bigfoot attack, psycho hitchhiker and runaway zombie in season one! Scare Tactics continues on SonyMax on DStv from Monday – Friday at 20:30 CAT.

The District (Season 2): This gritty police drama series has earned plaudits – and multiple award nominations – for its uncompromising look at the world of crime and justice. New York police chief Jack Mannion (played by Craig T. Nelson – CSI: New York, My Name is Earl, The Proposal), pledges to halve Washington DC’s crime rate with his no-nonsense approach. But it’s not only the thugs he has to battle in his quest to revitalise the force – he comes up against politics, apathy, internal corruption and cumbersome red tape as well. Inspired by the real-life experiences of Bill Bratton and Jack Maple, who reinvigorated the NYPD, the series also stars the late Lynne Thigpen (Anger Management, Law & Order), Roger Aaron Brown (Nip/Tuck, Supernatural) and Sean Patrick Thomas (Lie To Me, Save the Last Dance). DStv audiences can watch The District on SonyMax from Monday – Friday in March at 16:45 CAT.

I Dare You! The Ultimate Challenge: Gasp at the world’s greatest daredevils undertaking death-defying (and sanity-defying) stunts in an attempt to shatter records while keeping DStv viewers on the precipice of their seats. You’ll experience testosterone and adrenaline by the bucket load in this high-octane reality thrill-fest, hosted by Lee Reherman (Wizards of Waverly Place) and featuring commentary by legendary stuntman Evel Knievel. Not a show for the faint-hearted! Tune in on SonyMax on DStv on Tuesdays in March at 22:00 CAT.

e.tv AFRICA (DStv channel 144)

Scandal: Break-ups and no make ups in the month of March…Cole (Emmanuel Castis) and Shakira’s (Dawn Matthews) relationship hits rock bottom after his CD launch. Cole has been spending too much time in Donna’s company, especially when they both find they have so much in common. Cole plants a chaste kiss on Donna. Will this send Shakira off the rails when she finds out? We all know what happened to Abigail when Shakira did not get her way with Cole. On the other side of town, Mo and Alex have reached the end of the road. Following the death of Thabang, they are now in a tug of war over Kgomotso. Will they ever find their way back to each other or is their relationship doomed? DStv audiences can tune in to Scandal on e.tv Africa from Mondays – Thursdays at 19:30 CAT.

Rhythm City: From love triangles to two-edged swords and death traps, this month’s Rhythm City instalments are jam-packed full of drama, suspense and shocking revelations. With swords sharpened and guns polished, the Vilakazis press on with their strategy to kill Franco Genaro (played by Jamie Bartlett). But this becomes increasingly compromised as Suzuki stalks Miles to ask for more money to carry out the plan. Miles finds himself cornered and ends up embezzling funds out of Hustle Records, with startling consequences that will have him consider suicide. On the other hand, Lucilla jumps into bed with the devil, Tshinawa, so that he can help Miles swim out of his pool of troubles. Will Genaro’s knowledge of this deception rattle the Vilakazis further? Watch Rhythm City on e.tv Africa on DStv, weekdays at 18.30 CAT.

Breaking The Magician’s Code: Follow the intriguing Masked Magician as he dares to break the magician’s code: the code that binds magicians to never reveal how they perform their illusions. The Masked Magician defies fellow magicians and reveals the secrets behind tricks that have captivated audiences for centuries. You can’t afford to blink with Breaking The Magician’s Code on e. Saturday at 18.05 CAT.

My Name is Earl: Everyone’s favourite hillbilly with a Karma-cleansing quest is on e.Africa every Sunday in the popular sitcom, My Name is Earl. The loveable Earl (Jason Lee) is determined to correct his past mistakes. Joining him along his quest to cleanse his karma are a few dim-witted friends: hapless brother Randy (Ethan Suplee) and the very sexy Catalina (Nadine Velazquez). Even Darnell (Eddie Steeples), the owner of the Crab Shack where Earl drinks beer, offers his support. But it’s Earl’s ex-wife Joy (Jamie Pressly) who won’t lift a finger to help unless there’s something in it for her. Despite his seemingly limited intelligence, Earl is oddly effective – and the comedy series, like Earl himself, has a voice and style all its own. Tune in on Sundays at 19:30 CAT.

Late Nite News with Loyiso Gola II: March brings with it a brand-spanking-new season of the satirical show, Late Nite News with Loyiso Gola and will continue to reduce audiences to tears of laughter. Late Nite News anchor Loyiso Gola is known for his no-holds-barred comedy and this new season won’t be any different. Tune in to Late Nite News with Loyisa Gola on e.tv Africa on DStv on Wednesdays at 21.30 CAT.

BBC LIFESTYLE (DStv Channel 180)

10 Years Younger USA PREMIERE (Series 4): This US version of the hit show 10 Years Younger aims to turn back the clock for people who are looking a little worse for the passage of time. The causes of premature aging are varied and many, but the 10 Years Younger USA team of specialists, including fashion stylist Jorge Ramon, make-up artist Damone Roberts, and hairstylists Gina Derry and April Barton, are on hand to help out. They are backed up by a team of doctors and dentists who assist with strictly non-surgical procedures to complete the new look. Each person featured on the show is placed in the ‘big box’, which is situated on the busy streets of either New York or Los Angeles, to find out their perceived age from members of the public. The team then have ten days to take them from fuddy-duddy to fabulous before sending them back into the ‘big box’ to see how much their perceived age has dropped. Prepare to be amazed. From Wednesday 23 March at 21:45 CAT, series continues on BBC LifeStyle on DStv every Wednesday and Thursday at 21:20 and 21:45 CAT.

STYLE (DStv channel 183)

Fashion Police (Continuing Series): Joan Rivers brings her notorious and no-holds-barred celebrity fashion and pop culture commentary to E! viewers. From hot new trends to red carpet risks, Joan will take viewers through a complete recap of the week’s celebrity fashion and ultimately decide who sizzled – and who fizzled. Catch Joan Rivers and her fashion team, including Brit Kelly Osbourne and E!’s Giuliana Rancic, dissect the week’s celebrities, events, and of course, style, all showcasing Joan’s uniquely hilarious point of view. Tune in for Fashion Police on Style on DStv on Sundays at 20:00 CAT.

FOOD NETWORK (DStv Channel 185)

Food Network Challenge (Series 9): Food Network Challenge is back with a new season of even tougher challenges for top chefs. Each evening from 14 – 20 March, watch the best in cookery showdowns as small-town cooks to world renowned cooks do battle. In the first episode, four of the best food stylists in the business come to Challenge to prove who has the skills to take home prize and title. The competition takes place over three rounds: breakfast, mystery lunch box, and romantic dinner for two. They don’t need to make the food taste good; they need to make it look irresistible. The competitors whose presentations garner the best photographs will take home ten thousand dollars and the all important coveted gold medal. Later in the series, two teams of pastry chefs face off to build giant gingerbread houses. Not only do they have to make sure the six foot tall creations stand tall in just eight hours, the teams have to decorate the houses in the fairytale spirit. With reputations and cash prizes at stake it’s always heated in the Food Network Challenge kitchen. Let battle commence! Tune in to the Food Network Challenge on the Food Network on DStv from Monday 14 March at 18:30 CAT.

ESPN (DStv channel 230)

March has more live coverage of world-class basketball from the National Basketball Association (NBA) on ESPN, opening at full speed with the Boston Celtics hosting past league MVP Steve Nash and the Phoenix Suns. The Celtics’ All-Star lineup boasts not only the trio of Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen, but also rising star Rajon Rondo and NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal. Next up on the 5th is a doubleheader spotlighting some favourites for this year’s title as Dwight Howard and the Orlando Magic host the Chicago Bulls, followed by a ‘Best of the West’ meets a ‘Beast of the East’ as the San Antonio Spurs take on the Miami Heat.

The Heat nabbed all the preseason headlines with the debut of their electric threesome of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh, but they’ll have to play sharp all season to stay ahead of the hot Celtics and Magic – not to mention the impressive Bulls and Atlanta Hawks – in the East. In the West, the defending champion Los Angeles Lakers have some serious obstacles in their path back to the NBA Finals, among them the Spurs, Utah Jazz, Dallas Mavericks – in action against the New Orleans Hornets on the 10th – and the Oklahoma City Thunder, home to last season’s scoring leader, Kevin Durant.

ESPN’s coverage of the NBA airs live all season. Games feature a same day re-air in the afternoon/evening.

Schedule: CAT LIVE coverage – Host team shown first
Mar 3 02:30 Boston Celtics vs. Phoenix Suns
Mar 3 19:30 Boston Celtics vs. Phoenix Suns (R)
Mar 5 02:00 Orlando Magic vs. Chicago Bulls
Mar 5 13:00 Orlando Magic vs. Chicago Bulls (R)
Mar 5 04:30 San Antonio Spurs vs. Miami Heat
Mar 5 15:00 San Antonio Spurs vs. Miami Heat (R)
Mar 10 03:00 Dallas Mavericks vs. New Orleans Hornets
Mar 10 19:30 Dallas Mavericks vs. New Orleans Hornets (R)
Mar 12 03:00 Chicago Bulls vs. Atlanta Hawks
Mar 12 13:00 Chicago Bulls vs. Atlanta Hawks (R)
Mar 17 02:00 Miami Heat vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
Mar 17 21:00 Miami Heat vs. Oklahoma City Thunder (R)
Mar 19 01:30 Atlanta Hawks vs. Miami Heat
Mar 19 13:00 Atlanta Hawks vs. Miami Heat (R)
Mar 24 02:00 New York Knicks vs. Orlando Magic
Mar 24 19:30 New York Knicks vs. Orlando Magic (R)
Mar 26 01:30 Miami Heat vs. Philadelphia 76ers
Mar 26 13:00 Miami Heat vs. Philadelphia 76ers (R)
Mar 31 01:00 Atlanta Hawks vs. Orlando Magic
Mar 31 19:30 Atlanta Hawks vs. Orlando Magic (R)
(R) Re-air

BBC KNOWLEDGE (DStv channel 251)

Richard Hammond’s Invisible Words (3 episodes): Just beyond the perception of our naked eyes lies an invisible world of secret forces that touches every aspect of life on Earth and shapes it in unseen ways. Now, for the first time, this hidden world is revealed. The human eye is a remarkable piece of precision engineering, but all around us is an astonishing and beautiful world we cannot see. Some wonders are outside the visible spectrum, others are too fast, too slow, too small or too remote for our eyes and brains to interpret. From lightning sprites and shockwaves to heater bees and the crystalline structure of a spider’s web, Invisible Worlds uses cutting-edge camera technology – some specially adapted for this series – to reveal the full glory of these secret forces and hidden powers. Combining bold ideas with lucid scientific insights and stunning footage, Invisible Worlds is packed with surprising facts as well as phenomena never seen before on TV. See the deadly discharge leaking from high-voltage power lines as repairmen risk their lives to fix it, the intense heat and energy of a forest fire, the hidden patterns and colours of a flower garden as an insect sees them, how German scientists have unlocked the secrets of animal movement, and a black hole at the centre of our universe. Richard Hammond’s Invisible Words continues on BBC Knowledge on DStv, every Wednesday at 22:30 CAT.

CRIME AND INVESTIGATION NETWORK (DStv channel 255)

Crime 360: Viewers go inside investigations as theories and evidence are brought to life through state-of-the-art 3D photography. We’ll follow each case from start to finish; experiencing the crime scene in three dimensions and the evidence at the microscopic level. DStv audiences can tune in on Wednesday 16 March at 20:30 CAT.

The First 48: In medicine, they call it the ‘critical hour’, in criminal investigations; they call it the first 48 hours. If detectives don’t have a lead, a suspect or an arrest within 48 hours, their chances of solving the case are cut in half. The new series continues to follow homicide detectives during these initial critical hours as they race against time to solve their cases. New Episodes – Tuesdays at 20:30 CAT.

ANIMAL PLANET (DStv channel 264)

Swarm Chasers: Surprisingly some of the most terrifying and awe-inspiring events in the natural world do not involve animals with jaws and claws. Swarm Chasers explores a phenomenon that can turn even the most innocuous creatures into killers – the instinct to swarm. In this action-packed series, hosts Steve and Greg head into the eye of the greatest animal plagues on the planet to experience their devastating power and discover what it takes to transform organisms into ferocious and deadly mobs. First up, Steve and Greg meet leading scientists and tacticians in the military-style war on locusts, then head to the blowtorch heat of the Australian outback, swarm-chasing a well-known pest that has terrorised humanity since the dawn of civilisation. Next, rodent expert Dr Steven Belmain is on an expedition to a dangerous region of Bangladesh to try and unravel a bizarre mystery that has plagued locals for generations – a swarm of black rats. Tune in to Swarm Chasers on Animal Planet on DStv from Wednesday 16 March at 22:00 CAT.

DISNEY CHANNEL (DStv channel 303)

Snow Buddies: Get ready for nonstop adventure with the premiere of the heart-warming movie, Snow Buddies on Disney Channel on Saturday 19 March at 09:00 CAT. The five adorable talking puppies venture to the frosty arctic for a thrilling dogsled race across Alaska. Join the Buddies – the big fella Budderball, rappin‟ B-Dawg, courageous RoseBud, mellow Buddha, dirty dog MudBud, and their new Alaskan friend, Shasta – for fun, action and excitement in a wonderful family film about the power of teamwork and following your dreams. Don’t miss the lovable Snow Buddies on Saturday 19 March at 09:00 CAT, the movie will be rescreened the same day at 19:10 CAT. There will also be a chance to see the film on Friday 25 March at 18:45 CAT.

CBEEBIES (DStv channel 306)

Buzz & Tell: Perfect for preschoolers, Buzz & Tell is a fun and entertaining question and answer show which sees a team of puppet contestants battle it out to win points, overseen by a walrus quiz master. Walter Flipstick is the highly professional but often exasperated puppet walrus TV presenter in this quick fire comedy quiz. He’s joined by various panels of puppet contestants that include, among others: Charles Cheese, a diminutive and highly excitable cheese-loving mouse, Mr Biscuits, an earnest but jovial cuddly toy of unknown origin who is obsessed with biscuits, Henrietta Peck, a motherly and worldly wise hen who often lays an egg when struggling to answer a question, and Orange Bernard, a jolly but irredeemably dim orang-utan. The quiz consists of a number of rounds such as guess the missing word, a picture round, guess the sound, a numbers round and a general knowledge round. Questions are designed to be simple with straightforward one word answers. However, Walter’s contestants are not the brightest. While the puppets shout out lots of silly responses, children at home will enjoy shouting out the correct answer. Buzz & Tell is a fast and funny take on a well known format which is totally new to the preschool audience. Its combination of loveable and harmlessly silly characters, vibrant backgrounds, crazy sound effects and unique interactivity make for a frantic five minutes which children will come back to day after day. Series continues every day in March at 08:10 and 14:35 CAT.

CHANNEL O (DStv channel 320)

O-Xpress: The O-Xpress brings you the hottest, freshest tracks and the biggest names the industry has to offer from the likes of R. Kelly, P Square, Jigga, Mary J. Blige, T-Pain, Ikechukwu, Chris Brown, Beyonce, Naeto C and many more. Make sure you catch the O-Xpress, exclusive to Channel O. Tune in on Thursday 31 March.

Also this month, tune in for Featuring Banky W. This specialized Xpress features gifted songwriter, producer and vocalist, Banky W. An artist who has been able to connect with his fans on a personal level, he has created a large following worldwide. Born Olubankole Wellington in the United States, he grew up in Lagos and is regarded as one of the biggest Nigerian artists to date. Screening on Friday 18 March (21:00 CAT in East, West and Central Africa) and on Friday 25 March (20:30 CAT in Southern Africa).

CNN (DStv channel 401)

Earth’s Frontiers: This month, Earth’s Frontiers travels to Uganda to find out how genetic modification can prevent the global food crisis. As the fourth largest crop in the world, Uganda produces 10 million tonnes of bananas annually, second only to India. In an attempt to help to stem Africa’s growing food crisis, Earth’s Frontiers investigates the first trial of its kind in Africa as scientists adopt plans to inject banana plants with a protein to make them resistant to deadly bacterial diseases. However, local opposition could jeopardise the project. The programme finds out whether genetically modified crops will ever be embraced by African society. Wednesday 23 March at 09:30 and 19:30 CAT; Saturday 26 March at 09:30, 14:00 and 20:30 CAT; Sunday 27 March at 07:30 and 19:30 CAT; Monday 28 March at 05:30 CAT.
Duration: 30 minutes

CNN Marketplace Africa: This week on CNN Marketplace Africa, David McKenzie meets women in Kenya who have formed Chamas – investment collectives. The boardroom is like any other high-powered boardroom in Nairobi: sales pitches; big property deals; power investments. But there is one key difference: no men. This is Unathi investments, a group of Kenyan women who have banded together to form a Chama, or investment collective. When it comes to investment, they are leaving the men behind. Chamas started as revolving funds, now, these groups are putting together deals in the millions. One Chama is even listed on the stock exchange, and around nine million Kenyans belong to Chamas. David meets the women of Unathi investments and finds out just how powerful Chamas have become. Friday 25 March at 21:45 CAT; Saturday 26 March at 03:45 and 08:15 CAT; Sunday 27 March at 09:15 CAT.

Please note that programming, dates and times are subject to change. In addition, please note that different channels are available in different DStv bouquets and in different countries.

Can Documentaries Change The World?

Femi Odugbemi
Femi Odugbemi

CAN DOCUMENTARIES CHANGE THE WORLD?

A lecture by Nigerian Filmmaker Femi Odugbemi presented at the Centre for African and African-American Research, Duke University Durham North Carolina United States on Monday 21st February 2011.

I want to begin by saying Thank you to Professor Randy Matory, Chair of the Centre for your kind and generous introduction. I also want to appreciate members of your staff especially Ms. Bernice Patterson and
others who have welcomed me with great hospitality and generosity.

I am excited to be here and I appreciate your kind invitation. I am also excited really because I have come to understand that this University and this Centre has a strong documentary studies programme. I am a filmmaker and a culture activist. I am deeply interested in African cultural history and practices and also the emerging transcontinental cultures that are changing the face of what is known and unknown about our world today. The work that your centre here does in cultural anthropology especially in the Yoruba traditions and
mythologies is important to me and I am glad to have had a chance to be here.

I have just screened for you excerpts from my films “BARIGA BOY” and “ORIKI.’ In them are the core ideas around which I have concentrated my work as a filmmaker. My philosophy is that I am not just a filmmaker, I am an African Filmmaker. That is an identity that I take seriously and it is an identity that inspires my content. I believe that my art and my identity are interconnected and must feed each other. The idea and the context and culture of the artiste shapes his work. Filmmaking as all artistic undertakings, is a cultural practice and every form of its interpretation enriches and projects the experiences of a culture as captured from the artiste’s perspective.

The Nigerian Nollywood film industry was born of this understanding and has over the last 12-15years it has found a global audience amongst Africans and immigrants in the diaspora. Whilst we readily admit its technical deficiencies, Nollywood films have become a critical connector for many. Across the United Kingdom, the United States, Brazil, Cuba, as far as China and Australia and all across Africa, Nollywood as a filmmaking phenomenon is less about the fictional narratives and more about the interactivity of its visual
messaging.

The Nollywood movie industry is young, revolutionary and organic. It is young in the sense that movie making became a phenomenon in Nigeria only in recent years. It is revolutionary in the sense that it represents a radical break with the past. It did not have much history to go by and yet it has made international impact. More importantly, it is organic in the sense that it has a life of its own and it grows on its own steam. The Nigerian movie has its primary audience within the society in which it is produced, and this has been its most important attribute.

In every effective way, Nollywood is a form of pseudo documentary-making, showcasing the issues and conflicts and complexities of living the African experience in a way that is practical and to which Africans are connecting. While fiction, its narratives and sources are based on realities and actualities. It is a powerful form that has also inspired a new generation of filmmakers across the continent who are energised by the opportunity to make their voices heard. In this emerging globalization, cultural distinctions and dissection aid understanding as well as protect and preserve diversity. Documentaries are critical to helping us express our individualities within the blurred boundaries of the global community.

Cultures are in real and present danger of extinction. I am Yoruba. And my culture for instance is ancient with an amazing history full of spiritual mythologies. Its essence are profiled in family values, community, respect courtesy and individual responsibilities of integrity, industry, diligence and courage. For hundreds of years that culture has survived through history passed on by word of mouth. Today technology makes it possible to document this culture, to interrogate it and project its mysteries in a way that inspires a sense of belonging and pride.

Documentaries are also important today less as mere recordings or archiving tools of events and history and more for how they shape our thinking and mediate our experiences. That is a very important consideration if you accept the idea that whilst technology and globalization has made our lives easier it has blurred our
understanding of what is truth. Everything is complex and whilst you may have access to the facts of a situation, the truth of it has many sides. I believe the capacity of the documentary form to go beyond the news cycle and present to us perspectives gives us a deeper understanding that is useful in an era where the news cycles are overtly political.

Western colonialists in Africa used documentaries to shape group behaviour and manipulate perception and history. In Africa today the narrative of the global information order preserves an unfortunate sound bite that feeds our economic ostracization. The perspectives of experiences defined is at best narrow and one-sided. For Africa the global information order presents a narrative of wars, death, corruption and diseases. The question is ‘who is telling the story of Africa and its realities and from what perspective?’ Can African filmmakers bring better understanding within and outside the continent with documentaries that give a more rounded definition of the African experience?

Today Africa continues to be a hotbed of economic and socio-political change. From Tunisia to Egypt and now Libya. The primary questions are as urgent as they are fundamental: How can filmmaking serve the interests of Africa? How can it force the development agenda of Africa into global consciousness? How can it educate the world about the tremendous opportunities in Africa and highlight the importance of this continent? What are Africa’s strengths in a fiercely competitive global economic environment? And how do we create and grow a sustainable business model for African films to thrive? These questions underscore an important part of my own personal philosophy.

My work, not just as a filmmaker, but as an “African Filmmakers” is very important and vital to the sustenance of my own identity and even more ambitiously, my work is vital to the economic and social transformation of my community.

There is a dialogue on-going. Africa is in a conversation with itself concerning the shape of its future. A new order identifying new voices and new leaders, propagating new values of accountability, transparency, fair competition, social justice and economic empowerment is emerging. It is a revolution of immense significance
that is bringing a new optimism and pride about our future.

Documentary filmmaking can be at the centre of shaping these discourses — guiding and laying bare the issues.

The images of Africa’s emerging new order of political social and economic regeneration needs to get out there. The responsibility cannot be that of those outside of the experience. African filmmakers have a responsibility to mediate these perspectives because they have the priviledge of their craft and the audience it attracts. Back in 1935 the pioneering British documentary filmmaker Paul Rotha declared that “above all documentary must reflect the problems and realities of the present.” Rotha was a socially-conscious director who believed that the role of the documentary filmmaker was to help change the world for the better. I subscribe to that but will add that that the filmmaker must also question the nature of truth and reality. That is a key contention as governments and economic manipulators fully understand and use the documentary medium well as propaganda tools rather than for its more affecting power to educate, elevate and inspire. Today its boundaries are being stretched to keep up with the unreality of the real world. But the documentary form is a generous basket and it holds a lot of different things, afterall It is structured reality.

Many recent documentaries also denote a generational shift in both style and subject matter away from the political towards the emotional. There is a sense in which also the grand narratives globally are that people are living in an age of uncertainty and documentary increasingly reflects that because documentaries as an art form is traditionally progressive. Which is why as Professor Awam Akpam affirmed at the iRep documentary festival in Lagos in January, documentaries are way too important to be left in the hands of institutions. It should be in the hands of the population.

Today everything is happening at the speed of light – fast foods, fast cars fast communications, fast revolutions as we have seen all over the Middle East recently. All human experiences are moving at a rapid
pace requiring not only documentation historically, but perspectives and interpretations and individual voices to be heard. There is definitely a new energy for documentaries by people who need to tell their stories and can suddenly afford to do so. We are living in a time when young filmmakers in particular are increasingly turning towards documentary as a way to make sense of the world they live in.

They are more alert about and suspicious of the mainstream media and eager for a form that talks to them about real events in a real way even if that form is rough or even low-key. It’s a very exciting and ground-breaking time for the transformative power of the visual arts.

People are looking for bigger truths. There is a hunger for narratives that are personal, broad in scope and with integrity in its perspectives. How much change can documentary films really inspire?
I say it can change the world!

Thank you.

Femi Odugbemi is an Award-winning Filmmaker.
He is CEO of DVWORX Studios Lagos and former
President of the Independent Television Producers
Association of Nigeria.

Nigeria and other countries for International Family Film Festival in Hollywood

Nigeria and other countries are going to participate in the 16th edition of the International Family Film Festival taking place at the Raleigh Studios in Hollywood from March 16-20, 2011. The details are in the following press release from the organizers.

IFFF Poster

28 Feb 2011 15:00 Africa/Lagos

International Family Film Festival Set for Raleigh Studios on March 16-20
16th edition to feature Screenings, Panels & Awards
Opening Press Conference at 1 p.m. Wednesday, March 16

PR Newswire

HOLLYWOOD, Calif., Feb. 28, 2011

HOLLYWOOD, Calif., Feb. 28, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — It’s the film festival with a global reach and a family heart.

The 16th International Family Film Festival – unspooling over 85 family-friendly films from around the world – is set for March 16-20 at Raleigh Studios in Hollywood. This year’s festival includes 33 feature-length films, opening with Cafe, a Philadelphia-based drama with Jennifer Love Hewitt, Amish Grace, a biographical drama with Kimberly Williams (We Are Marshall), plus high-profile shorts such as Chapman University’s Without Wings, starring Hailee Steinfeld (True Grit).

A large Chinese film delegation will be on hand to support local entries, and Chinese actress Ruoming Huar of the Mongolian-language film Horizon, is scheduled for 6 p.m. March 19. Other filmmakers are traveling to the festival to support film projects from as far as Australia, Syria, Nigeria and Alaska. A half-dozen student filmmakers from Sydney will be on hand to cheer on Almost 100, a short about life-threatening teenage challenges. Another entry, a feature-length survival drama entitled 48 Below! – employed many residents of Sterling, Alaska, to assist in its production, and a local contingent will travel to the fest.

Last year’s IFFF drew 5,000-plus film fans and industry professionals. The festival market generally produces several film-distribution deals, and many screenplays from its screenwriting readings have secured option deals following the Screenwriter’s Showcase being held this year on Sunday, March 20th. A film produced from a 2010 IFFF screenplay winner, First Dog, has been accepted into the film competition this year.

The festival wraps Sunday, March 20th with a full awards ceremony that is both uplifting and entertaining. Annually IFFF recognizes outstanding achievement in multiple feature and short-film categories, acting and screenwriting. The fest also screens the finalists of the “Movies With A Message” contest (www.messagemovies.org) sponsored by Happy House – Good Choices, a non-profit that encourages youth to make inspirational movies with their families.

TICKETS:

$250 all-festival pass (includes all films and panels)

$40 all-day pass (includes all films)

$25 opening-night film and reception

$15 individual panels

$10 film tickets, $8 for IFFF members or group rate of 10 or more

For schedule and tickets visit www.iffilmfest.org or call 818-230-2572 or 661-257-3131.

SOURCE International Family Film Festival

CONTACT: Carl DiOrio, IFFF publicist, +1-310-415-9003, carldiorio@gmail.com

Web Site: http://www.iffilmfest.org

The 2011 BAFTAs, the full report

Leading Actor Colin Firth

Colin Firth won the BAFTA for his performance as King George VI in The King’s Speech. (Pic: BAFTA/ Richard Kendal)

The King’s Speech wins seven BAFTAs including Best Film, Leading Actor for Colin Firth, Supporting Actor for Geoffrey Rush and Supporting Actress for Helena Bonham Carter.

Natalie Portman wins Leading Actress

The Social Network and Inception win three BAFTAs each

Alice in Wonderland takes home two awards

The King’s Speech was named Best Film at tonight’s Orange British Academy Film Awards, held at London’s Royal Opera House. The film also won six other awards: Outstanding British Film, Original Screenplay and Original Music, as well as a trio of performance awards for Geoffrey Rush, Helena Bonham Carter and Colin Firth, who wins the Leading Actor BAFTA for the second year running.

Natalie Portman was awarded the BAFTA for Leading Actress for her performance as Nina Sayers in Black Swan.

David Fincher won the Director award for The Social Network and Aaron Sorkin took home the BAFTA for Adapted Screenplay. The film also won the Editing award.

Inception won the Production Design, Sound and Special Visual Effects BAFTAs.
Director Chris Morris received the award for Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director or Producer for his first feature film Four Lions.

Alice in Wonderland won the BAFTAs for Costume Design and Make Up & Hair. Toy Story 3 took home the award for Animated Film. True Grit won for Cinematography. The Film Not in the English Language BAFTA went to The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.

The Eagleman Stag won the Short Animation award and the Short Film award was presented to Until the River Runs Red.

The Orange Wednesdays Rising Star Award was presented to Tom Hardy, star of Inception and Bronson. This award, the only one voted for by the public, recognises an international actor or actress who has demonstrated exceptional talent and has begun to be recognised as a film star in the making. The award is now in its sixth year and was created in honour of Mary Selway, the highly respected casting director who passed away in 2004.

The highest accolade which the Academy can bestow, the Fellowship, was presented to Christopher Lee. The award for Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema was received by JK Rowling and David Heyman on behalf of The Harry Potter Films.

For further information, please contact:
Jo Fernihough at Freud Communications
T: 020 3003 6386 / johanna.fernihough@freud.com

THE FOLLOWING IS THE COMPLETE REPORT:

2010 NOMINATIONS AND WINNERS
(presented in 2011)

ACADEMY FELLOWSHIP
CHRISTOPHER LEE

OUTSTANDING BRITISH CONTRIBUTION TO CINEMA
THE HARRY POTTER FILMS

BEST FILM
BLACK SWAN Mike Medavoy, Brian Oliver, Scott Franklin
INCEPTION Emma Thomas, Christopher Nolan
THE KING’S SPEECH Iain Canning, Emile Sherman, Gareth Unwin
THE SOCIAL NETWORK Scott Rudin, Dana Brunetti, Michael De Luca, Céan Chaffin
TRUE GRIT Scott Rudin, Ethan Coen, Joel Coen

OUTSTANDING BRITISH FILM
127 HOURS Danny Boyle, Simon Beaufoy, Christian Colson, John Smithson
ANOTHER YEAR Mike Leigh, Georgina Lowe
FOUR LIONS Chris Morris, Jesse Armstrong, Sam Bain, Mark Herbert, Derrin Schlesinger
THE KING’S SPEECH Tom Hooper, David Seidler, Iain Canning, Emile Sherman, Gareth Unwin
MADE IN DAGENHAM Nigel Cole, William Ivory, Elizabeth Karlsen, Stephen Woolley

OUTSTANDING DEBUT BY A BRITISH WRITER, DIRECTOR OR PRODUCER
THE ARBOR Clio Barnard (Director), Tracy O’Riordan (Producer)
EXIT THROUGH THE GIFT SHOP Banksy (Director), Jaimie D’Cruz (Producer)
FOUR LIONS Chris Morris (Director/Writer)
MONSTERS Gareth Edwards (Director/Writer)
SKELETONS Nick Whitfield (Director/Writer)

DIRECTOR
127 HOURS Danny Boyle
BLACK SWAN Darren Aronofsky
INCEPTION Christopher Nolan
THE KING’S SPEECH Tom Hooper
THE SOCIAL NETWORK David Fincher

ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY
BLACK SWAN Mark Heyman, Andrés Heinz, John McLaughlin
THE FIGHTER Scott Silver, Paul Tamasy, Eric Johnson
INCEPTION Christopher Nolan
THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT Lisa Cholodenko, Stuart Blumberg
THE KING’S SPEECH David Seidler

ADAPTED SCREENPLAY
127 HOURS Danny Boyle, Simon Beaufoy
THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO Rasmus Heisterberg, Nikolaj Arcel
THE SOCIAL NETWORK Aaron Sorkin
TOY STORY 3 Michael Arndt
TRUE GRIT Joel Coen, Ethan Coen

FILM NOT IN THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE
BIUTIFUL Alejandro González Iñárritu, Jon Kilik, Fernando Bovaira
THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO Søren Stærmose, Niels Arden Oplev
I AM LOVE Luca Guadagnino, Francesco Melzi D’Eril, Marco Morabito, Massimiliano Violante
OF GODS AND MEN Xavier Beauvois, Pascal Caucheteux, Etienne Comar
THE SECRET IN THEIR EYES Mariela Besuievsky, Juan José Campanella

ANIMATED FILM
DESPICABLE ME Chris Renaud, Pierre Coffin
HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON Chris Sanders, Dean DeBlois
TOY STORY 3 Lee Unkrich

LEADING ACTOR
JAVIER BARDEM Biutiful
JEFF BRIDGES True Grit
JESSE EISENBERG The Social Network
COLIN FIRTH The King’s Speech
JAMES FRANCO 127 Hours

LEADING ACTRESS
ANNETTE BENING The Kids Are All Right
JULIANNE MOORE The Kids Are All Right
NATALIE PORTMAN Black Swan
NOOMI RAPACE The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
HAILEE STEINFELD True Grit

SUPPORTING ACTOR
CHRISTIAN BALE The Fighter
ANDREW GARFIELD The Social Network
PETE POSTLETHWAITE The Town
MARK RUFFALO The Kids Are All Right
GEOFFREY RUSH The King’s Speech

SUPPORTING ACTRESS
AMY ADAMS The Fighter
HELENA BONHAM CARTER The King’s Speech
BARBARA HERSHEY Black Swan
LESLEY MANVILLE Another Year
MIRANDA RICHARDSON Made in Dagenham

ORIGINAL MUSIC
127 HOURS AR Rahman
ALICE IN WONDERLAND Danny Elfman
HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON John Powell
INCEPTION Hans Zimmer
THE KING’S SPEECH Alexandre Desplat

CINEMATOGRAPHY
127 HOURS Anthony Dod Mantle, Enrique Chediak
BLACK SWAN Matthew Libatique
INCEPTION Wally Pfister
THE KING’S SPEECH Danny Cohen
TRUE GRIT Roger Deakins

EDITING
127 HOURS Jon Harris
BLACK SWAN Andrew Weisblum
INCEPTION Lee Smith
THE KING’S SPEECH Tariq Anwar
THE SOCIAL NETWORK Angus Wall, Kirk Baxter

PRODUCTION DESIGN
ALICE IN WONDERLAND Robert Stromberg, Karen O’Hara
BLACK SWAN Thérèse DePrez, Tora Peterson
INCEPTION Guy Hendrix Dyas, Larry Dias, Doug Mowat
THE KING’S SPEECH Eve Stewart, Judy Farr
TRUE GRIT Jess Gonchor, Nancy Haigh

COSTUME DESIGN
ALICE IN WONDERLAND Colleen Atwood
BLACK SWAN Amy Westcott
THE KING’S SPEECH Jenny Beavan
MADE IN DAGENHAM Louise Stjernsward
TRUE GRIT Mary Zophres

SOUND
127 HOURS Glenn Freemantle, Ian Tapp, Richard Pryke, Steven C Laneri, Douglas Cameron
BLACK SWAN Ken Ishii, Craig Henighan, Dominick Tavella
INCEPTION Richard King, Lora Hirschberg, Gary A Rizzo, Ed Novick
THE KING’S SPEECH John Midgley, Lee Walpole, Paul Hamblin, Martin Jensen
TRUE GRIT Skip Lievsay, Craig Berkey, Greg Orloff, Peter F Kurland, Douglas Axtell

SPECIAL VISUAL EFFECTS
ALICE IN WONDERLAND Ken Ralston, David Schaub, Sean Phillips, Carey Villegas
BLACK SWAN Dan Schrecker, Henrik Fett, Michael Capton, William ‘Brad’ Kalinoski
HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS PART 1 Tim Burke, John Richardson, Nicolas Aithadi, Christian Manz
INCEPTION Chris Corbould, Paul Franklin, Andrew Lockley, Peter Bebb
TOY STORY 3 Guido Quaroni, Michael Fong, David Ryu

MAKE UP & HAIR
ALICE IN WONDERLAND Valli O’Reilly, Paul Gooch
BLACK SWAN Judy Chin, Geordie Sheffer
HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS PART 1 Amanda Knight, Lisa Tomblin, Nick Dudman
THE KING’S SPEECH Frances Hannon
MADE IN DAGENHAM Lizzie Yianni Georgiou

SHORT ANIMATION
THE EAGLEMAN STAG Michael Please
MATTER FISHER David Prosser
THURSDAY Matthias Hoegg

SHORT FILM
CONNECT Samuel Abrahams, Beau Gordon
LIN Piers Thompson, Simon Hessel
RITE Michael Pearce, Ross McKenzie, Paul Welsh
TURNING Karni Arieli, Saul Freed, Alison Sterling, Kat Armour-Brown
UNTIL THE RIVER RUNS RED Paul Wright, Poss Kondeatis

THE ORANGE WEDNESDAYS RISING STAR AWARD (voted for by the public)
GEMMA ARTERTON
ANDREW GARFIELD
TOM HARDY
AARON JOHNSON
EMMA STON

CLICK HERE FOR THE COMPLETE PHOTOGRAPHS OF ALL THE WINNERS

Mick Jagger to Perform Live on the GRAMMY Awards® for the First Time

8 Feb 2011 13:00 Africa/Lagos

Mick Jagger to Perform Live on the GRAMMY Awards® for the First Time

53rd Grammy Awards

GRAMMY Award®-Winning Rock Legend and Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient — Accompanied by GRAMMY® Winner Raphael Saadiq and His Band — Will Perform as Part of the Telecast’s Annual “In Memoriam” Tribute

Music’s Biggest Night® Airs Live Sunday, Feb. 13, 2011, 8 P.M. ET/PT, Only on CBS

PR Newswire

SANTA MONICA, Calif., Feb. 3, 2011

Mick_Jagger4
Mick Jagger

SANTA MONICA, Calif., Feb. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — GRAMMY Award®-winning rock legend and Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Mick Jagger will perform live on the GRAMMY Awards for the first time. Accompanied by GRAMMY® winner Raphael Saadiq and his band, Jagger will perform as part of the telecast’s annual “In Memoriam” tribute, which pays homage to members of the music community who have passed away in the previous year. Jagger and Saadiq join previously announced performers and nominees Arcade Fire, Eminem, Lady Antebellum, Lady Gaga, Miranda Lambert , Muse, and Katy Perry ; nominees Justin Bieber and Usher, with Jaden Smith ; nominees B.o.B, Bruno Mars , and Janelle Monae ; nominees Drake and Rihanna; and nominee Cee Lo Green , with Gwyneth Paltrow and the Jim Henson Company Puppets. Current three-time GRAMMY nominee Dierks Bentley , nine-time GRAMMY winner and current nominee Norah Jones , singer/actor Selena Gomez , two-time GRAMMY winner and actor LL COOL J, current nominee Nicki Minaj, and current nominee Blake Shelton will appear as presenters. The 53rd Annual GRAMMY Awards (www.grammy.com) will take place live on Sunday, Feb. 13, 2011 , at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles and will be broadcast in high definition and 5.1 surround sound on the CBS Television Network from 8 – 11:30 p.m. (ET/PT). The show also will be supported on radio worldwide via Westwood One, and covered online at GRAMMY.com and CBS.com, and on YouTube at www.youtube.com/thegrammys . Additional performers, presenters and special segments will be announced soon. For GRAMMY coverage, updates and breaking news, please visit The Recording Academy®’s social networks on Twitter and Facebook: www.twitter.com/thegrammys , www.facebook.com/thegrammys .

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110104/LA23911LOGO)

In his first-ever live appearance on the GRAMMY stage, Jagger — accompanied by soul singer Saadiq and his band — will honor one of his longtime idols, recently deceased GRAMMY winner Solomon Burke. Jagger has appeared only once before on the GRAMMY telecast (with the Rolling Stones), via satellite from London during the 28th Annual GRAMMY Awards in 1986, when Eric Clapton presented the Stones with The Recording Academy® Lifetime Achievement Award.

Arcade Fire, Bieber, B.o.B, Lambert, Mars, Monae, Muse, Paltrow, and Smith will also be performing on the GRAMMY telecast for the first time, and all five Album Of The Year nominees are set to perform on Music’s Biggest Night®: Arcade Fire, Eminem, Lady Antebellum, Lady Gaga, and Perry.

The 53rd Annual GRAMMY Awards are produced by John Cossette Productions and AEG Ehrlich Ventures for The Recording Academy. Ken Ehrlich and John Cossette are executive producers, Louis J. Horvitz is director, and David Wild and Ken Ehrlich are the writers.

Established in 1957, The Recording Academy is an organization of musicians, producers, engineers and recording professionals that is dedicated to improving the cultural condition and quality of life for music and its makers. Internationally known for the GRAMMY Awards — the preeminent peer-recognized award for musical excellence and the most credible brand in music — The Recording Academy is responsible for groundbreaking professional development, cultural enrichment, advocacy, education and human services programs. The Academy continues to focus on its mission of recognizing musical excellence, advocating for the well-being of music makers and ensuring music remains an indelible part of our culture. For more information about The Academy, please visit www.grammy.com . For breaking news and exclusive content, join the organization’s social networks as a Twitter follower at www.twitter.com/thegrammys , a Facebook fan at www.facebook.com/thegrammys , and a YouTube channel subscriber at www.youtube.com/thegrammys .

SOURCE The Recording Academy

CONTACT: Barb Dehgan of The Recording Academy, +1-310-392-3777; or Tiffany Smith-Anoa’i, +1-818-655-1587, or Kate Fisher, +1-212-975-3818, both of CBS Television; or Maureen O’Connor of Rogers & Cowan, +1-310-854-8116

Web Site: http://www.grammy.com

Emmy® Winner Alec Baldwin and Robert Osborne to Co-Host TCM Showcase THE ESSENTIALS

Alec Baldwin
Alec Baldwin to Co-Host TCM Showcase THE ESSENTIALS with Robert Osborne. (PRNewsFoto/Turner Classic Movies)

3 Feb 2011 20:00 Africa/Lagos

Emmy® Winner Alec Baldwin Back Again to Co-Host TCM Showcase THE ESSENTIALS With Robert Osborne

PR Newswire

ATLANTA, Feb. 3, 2011

ATLANTA, Feb. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Two-time Emmy® winner and recent Screen Actors Guild Award® winner Alec Baldwin (30 Rock) will return for his third season as co-host of THE ESSENTIALS on Turner Classic Movies (TCM). In his first two seasons opposite TCM host Robert Osborne , Baldwin displayed a deep admiration for and knowledge of classic films. Baldwin and Osborne have selected 30 “must see” films for the 2011 season of the weekly showcase.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110203/CL42118 )

Airing each Saturday at 8 p.m. (ET) , the 11th season will kick off March 5 with the memorable prison film Cool Hand Luke (1967), which earned star Paul Newman a Best Actor Oscar® nomination and co-star George Kennedy the award for Best Supporting Actor. The film is one of 14 selected by both Osborne and Baldwin for the 2011 season. Other films chosen jointly by the co-hosts are Hannah and Her Sisters (1986 – March 19), Mildred Pierce (1945 – March 26), Ball of Fire (1941 – April 16), Gunga Din (1939 – April 23), Bicycle Thieves (aka The Bicycle Thief) (1948 – May 7), Stage Door (1937 – Aug. 6), The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962 – Aug. 13), A Place in the Sun (1951 – Aug. 20), A Letter to Three Wives (1949 – Aug. 27), Sunset Blvd. (1950 – Sept. 3) and The Bank Dick (1940 – Nov. 12).

The showcase’s April 30 presentation of An American in Paris (1951) will coincide with the 2011 edition of the TCM Classic Film Festival, which will launch April 28 with a gala screening of a carefully restored and remastered version of the Best Picture Oscar winner. And on Christmas Eve, Baldwin and Osborne will host a special presentation of the holiday classic Miracle on 34th Street (1947).

In addition to their joint selections, Baldwin and Osborne individually chose several films for THE ESSENTIALS. Baldwin’s personal selections include The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner (1962 – April 2), Splendor in the Grass (1961 – April 9), East of Eden (1955 – May 21), Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo (1944 – May 28), The Caine Mutiny (1954 – June 11), Kiss of the Spider Woman (1985 – July 23), City Lights (1931 – July 2), Fail-Safe (1964 – July 9) and The Misfits (1961 – July 16).

Osborne’s individual choices for 2011 include Love Me Tonight (1932 – March 12), Cat People (1942 – May 14), Dodsworth (1936 – June 4), Bringing Up Baby (1938 – June 18), Out of the Past (1947 – June 25) and Best Picture Oscar winner All Quiet on the Western Front (1930 – July 30).

“I’m proud to be able to sit down with Robert Osborne again as we present some of the greatest films ever made,” Baldwin said. “It is a true joy for me each year to be able to share my love of movies with the TCM community of fans.”

“Alec and I have had a great time the past two years choosing and discussing great films,” Osborne said. “This year, we have put together an amazing schedule, and we are very excited to present it to movie lovers.”

The following is the complete schedule of the films Baldwin and Osborne will present for the 11th season of THE ESSENTIALS. With the exception of Kiss of the Spider Woman on July 23, all presentations begin at 8 p.m. (ET). (Schedule subject to change.)

March 5 – Cool Hand Luke (1967)

March 12 – Love Me Tonight (1932)

March 19 – Hannah and Her Sisters (1986)

March 26 – Mildred Pierce (1945)

April 2 – The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner (1962)

April 9 – Splendor in the Grass (1961)

April 16 – Ball of Fire (1941)

April 23 – Gunga Din (1939)

April 30 – An American in Paris (1951)

May 7 – Bicycle Thieves (aka The Bicycle Thief ) (1948)

May 14 – Cat People (1942)

May 21 – East of Eden (1955)

May 28 – Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo (1944)

June 4 – Dodsworth (1936)

June 11 – The Caine Mutiny (1954)

June 18 – Bringing Up Baby (1938)

June 25 – Out of the Past (1947)

July 2 – City Lights (1931)

July 9 – Fail-Safe (1964)

July 16 – The Misfits (1961)

July 23 – Cool Hand Luke (1967) and Kiss of the Spider Woman (1985)

July 30 – All Quiet on the Western Front (1930)

Aug. 6 – Stage Door (1937)

Aug. 13 – The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962)

Aug. 20 – A Place in the Sun (1951)

Aug. 27 – A Letter to Three Wives (1949)

Sept. 3 – Sunset Blvd. (1950)

Sept. 10 – The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner (1962)

Sept. 17 – Mildred Pierce (1945)

Sept. 24 – Love Me Tonight (1932)

Oct. 1 – Ball of Fire (1941)

Oct. 8 – Gunga Din (1939)

Oct. 15 – Bicycle Thieves (aka The Bicycle Thief ) (1948)

Oct. 22 – An American in Paris (1951)

Oct. 29 – Cat People (1942)

Nov. 5 – East of Eden (1955)

Nov. 12 – The Bank Dick (1940)

Nov. 19 – Splendor in the Grass (1961)

Nov. 26 – Dodsworth (1936)

Dec. 3 – Fail-Safe (1964)

Dec. 10 – The Caine Mutiny (1954)

Dec. 17 – Bringing Up Baby (1938)

Dec. 24 – Miracle on 34th Street (1968)

Dec. 31 – A Letter to Three Wives (1949)

Jan. 7 – City Lights (1931)

Jan. 14 – Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo (1944)

Jan. 21 – Out of the Past (1947)

Jan. 28 – The Misfits (1961)

Prior to co-hosting THE ESSENTIALS, Baldwin appeared on TCM as part of the network’s Guest Programmer series. In 2008, he hosted the TCM special Role Model: Gene Wilder , in which he interviewed the comic actor.

Baldwin is one of Hollywood’s most charismatic and prolific actors. He currently stars with Tina Fey in the hit comedy series 30 Rock, which recently earned him his second Emmy and his fifth consecutive Screen Actors Guild Award. He has also earned three Golden Globes® and a Television Critics Association Award for his performance on the show.

Baldwin’s many film credits include The Departed; The Cooler; The Hunt for Red October, Glengarry Glen Ross and It’s Complicated. He recently completed production on the film AmeriQua and is at work on Men in Black III. On stage, Baldwin won acclaim and a Tony® nomination for his work opposite Jessica Lange in A Streetcar Named Desire, which also garnered him an Emmy nomination for the television adaptation. Baldwin’s production company, El Dorado Pictures, co-produced TNT’s Emmy-nominated miniseries Nuremberg and the feature film State and Main. He also wrote the book A Promise to Ourselves: A Journey through Fatherhood and Divorce.

Past hosts of THE ESSENTIALS included filmmakers Rob Reiner, Peter Bogdanovich and Sydney Pollack. Robert Osborne took over hosting duties in 2006, paired with film critic and author Molly Haskell. He was joined by actress and bestselling author Carrie Fisher in 2007 and actress Rose McGowan in 2008.

About Turner Classic Movies (TCM)

Turner Classic Movies is a Peabody Award-winning network that presents great films, uncut and commercial-free, from the largest film libraries in the world. Currently seen in more than 85 million homes, TCM features the insights of veteran primetime host Robert Osborne and weekend daytime host Ben Mankiewicz, plus interviews with a wide range of special guests. As the foremost authority in classic films, TCM offers critically acclaimed original documentaries and specials, along with regular programming events that include The Essentials, 31 Days of Oscar and Summer Under the Stars. TCM also stages special events and screenings, such as the TCM Classic Film Festival in Hollywood; produces a wide range of media about classic film, including books and DVDs; and hosts a wealth of materials at its Web site, www.tcm.com. TCM is part of Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., a Time Warner company.

Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., a Time Warner company, creates and programs branded news, entertainment, animation and young adult media environments on television and other platforms for consumers around the world.

SOURCE Turner Classic Movies
NOTE TO EDITORS: Visit the TCM press site at news.turner.com. Follow TCM on twitter @TCM.

CONTACT: Heather Sautter, Atlanta, +1-404-885-0746, heather.sautter@turner.com; Cassie Bryan, Los Angeles, +1-818-729-7351, cassie.bryan@turner.com; Samantha Graham, New York, +1-212-275-6821, samantha.graham@turner.com

Getting ‘Red Carpet Ready’ in 2011 with Valerie Waters

California Raisins and Celebrity Fitness Trainer, Valerie Waters, Offer Advice on Getting ‘Red Carpet Ready’ in 2011
– Upload Red Carpet Moments in New Sweepstakes for Chance to Win Hollywood Trip; Visit LoveYourRaisins.com for Details –

Valerie_Waters

Fresno, Calif., January 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — From school reunions and weddings to anniversaries and date night, life is never short of occasions when we want to look and feel our best. That’s why California Raisins has teamed up with trainer to the stars, Valerie Waters, to offer fitness and healthy eating advice on getting paparazzi prepared in 2011 for all of life’s red carpet moments.

Along with guidance from Waters, California Raisins is also launching a new, easy-to-enter sweepstakes called, “What’s Your Red Carpet Moment?” Now through March 15, participants can share their upcoming red carpet moments on the California Raisins’ Facebook page for a chance to win a trip to the red carpet capital of the world—Hollywood, Calif. Contest details and an official set of rules can be found at www.loveyourraisins.com.

“Getting in shape is no different for super stars or super moms; it is all about making your mind up to eat right, snack smart and get active—regardless if you are preparing for a movie premiere, your 20-year class reunion or a milestone birthday,” says Waters. “Feeling your best for life’s special occasions is a matter of consistently making wise choices.”

Following are some tips from Waters on how to begin making wise choices now:

1. Make the commitment. Every health and fitness journey starts with making daily changes—not just when you can fit them in your schedule or when you have time. The first step toward achieving your health and fitness goals is simply making the decision to set them.
2. Eat breakfast every day. Beginning your day with a nutritious meal jump starts your metabolism and sets you up for eating right the whole day. Healthy breakfasts that don’t take much time:
* 1/3 cup of liquid egg whites scrambled with veggies (just about any will do) with one piece of whole grain toast
* 1 packet of plain instant oatmeal with a scoop of chocolate protein powder plus a tablespoon of California Raisins
* 1 piece of whole grain toast with a tablespoon of all-natural peanut butter and banana slices
* ½ cup of low fat yogurt topped with California Raisins and sliced almonds
3. Snack smart. No workout in the world can compensate for consistently unhealthy eating choices. Food and fitness go hand-in-hand and that is why I encourage my clients to never leave healthy eating to chance. Plan ahead and make nutritious lunches and snacks that include plenty of veggies, whole grains and fruits, such as California Raisins. Raisins are a great on-the-go snack, and just a ¼ cup equals a full serving of fruit—plus they are fat- and cholesterol-free.
4. Consistency is key. A short workout is better than no workout at all. So even if you only have ten minutes to spare, move your coffee table to the side and make some space to do an at-home workout. And when our time is limited, avoid working out only your problem areas, like your stomach. Instead of doing crunches, which burns very little calories, a more important objective is to work out as many muscle groups as you can in the time you have available. Below is one of my favorite heart pumping circuits inspired by my book, Red Carpet Ready. Repeat the circuit three times for a great at-home workout.
* Plié Squat
* Reverse Lunge
* Bent Over Row
* Lateral Raise
* Ultimate Crunch

To view simple, follow-along fitness videos, visit www.loveyourraisins.com

“Physical activity and healthy eating go hand-in-hand,” says Waters. “From breakfast through dinner and the snack times in between, reach for lean proteins, veggies and fruits, like California Raisins, which are delicious, nutritious and perfectly portable for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up or pre-workout energy boost.”
About the California Raisin Marketing Board

A State Marketing Order in 1998 created the California Raisin Marketing Board and it is 100 percent grower-funded. Its mission is to support and promote the increased use of California-grown raisins and sponsor crop production, nutrition and market research. For more information about the California Raisin Marketing Board and to browse delicious recipes, visit www.loveyourraisins.com.

Media Contact:
Julie Berge
Fleishman-Hillard
916-492-3339
julie.berge@fleishman.com