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Vivienne Westwood Passes Away at 81

Music Observer Staff on January 11, 2023

Image commercially licensed from: Unsplash

The unconventional fashion designer Dame Vivienne Westwood, who used her garments to help popularize the British punk movement, has passed away.

Westwood, 81, passed away today (December 29) “peacefully and accompanied by her family, in Clapham, South London,” according to a statement from her reps.

On April 8, 1941, Vivienne Isabel Swire was born in Hollingworth, England. After her family moved to Harrow, Middlesex, and she enrolled in a silversmithing school at the University of Westminster, she started making jewelry.

She gave birth to Benjamin Westwood, her first child, in 1962 after she wed Derek Westwood, an apprentice at a Hoover factory. After the Westwoods’ divorce a short while later, Vivienne wed Malcolm McLaren. In 1967, she gave birth to Joseph Corré, her second son.

Westwood quit her profession as a teacher in 1971 to focus solely on fashion design, with McLaren contributing to many styles.

The couple initially opened a store that specialized in revival clothing.

But it wasn’t until they changed the name to SEX and filled it with rebellious clothing—characterized by torn T-shirts, plaid patterns, integrated rubber, mohair tops, and safety pins as embellishments—that it really took off.

It became a popular gathering place for important figures in the music scene at the time, including Sid Vicious, Siouxsie and the Banshees guitarist Marco Pirroni, and the Pop.

Design Focus

Shortly after, McLaren took over as the Sex Pistols’ manager. The group began donning the couple’s creations, which helped popularize the British punk style and inextricably linked the two in history.

“It changed the way people looked,” Westwood told The Independent of her early punk clothing.

“I was messianic about punk, seeing if one could put a spoke in the system in some way. I realized there was no subversion without ideas. It’s not enough to want to destroy everything.”

Westwood’s design focus changed from the punk scene to mocking upper-class ladies in the 1980s. However, it was when Westwood unveiled her official clothing line, Pirates, in 1981 that she realized she was a fashion designer.

From then, she began testing the limits of clothes as a depiction of women’s sexuality by introducing the “mini crini,” an adaptation of the Victorian crinoline as a mini skirt.

In the years that followed, Westwood would go on to develop costumes for Virgin Atlantic flight crews, academic gowns for King’s College in London, and digital mock-ups for video game characters like Lunafreya Nox Fleuret from Final Fantasy XV.

Although Westwood is best remembered for her role in creating the so-called “look” of British punk, she insisted that no one style could adequately capture one’s identity or worldview.

“If you invest in art, if you study yourself, you become a freedom fighter immediately because your life changes, you get off the consumer treadmill, and you start thinking,” she said in a 2011 interview with The Guardian.

“My thing as a fashion designer [is] I said buy less clothes. Keep wearing things that you’ve really chosen that you really love. That is status. It’s not that you have to keep consuming. A status symbol is a book.”

Activist Platform

Westwood frequently used her platform as an activist throughout her career. She frequently spoke at environmental justice gatherings and was open about her support for Julian Assange, showing up at various public rallies.

She founded the Climate Revolution in 2012 as a campaign against climate change and global warming.

“Capitalism is as corrupt as a rotten apple,” Westwood said in a Climate Revolution manifesto writing. “It’s the economy, stupid! U accept because u think there’s no alternative. But we have hope (war is fought four lands + cheap labor). Change the economy – NO MAN’S LAND.”

The late fashion designer and her two sons, Ben Westwood and Joe Corré, were interviewed for the Wake Up Punk documentary, which Westwood debuted earlier this year. The interviews focused on the shape-shifting genre of punk.

Corré organized Burn Punk London in 2016, where he destroyed his priceless collection of punk artifacts, much of which had been given to him by his parents.

Many musicians have paid tribute to the late fashion designer since word of his passing spread, including the Blessed Madonna, Yoko Ono, Massive Attack, the Avalanches, Leon Vynehall, Garbage, Rachel Goswell of Slowdive, and Maggie Rogers.

Life Before Spotlight

Gordon Swire and Dora Swire (née Ball), who had wed two years earlier, two weeks after the start of the Second World War, were the parents of Westwood.

Her father had been a greengrocer before becoming a storekeeper in an aircraft plant at the time of Vivienne’s birth.

After taking a job in a factory and enrolling in a teacher-training college, she became a primary school teacher. During this time, she created all of the jewelry she sold out of a stall on Portobello Road.

Westwood’s creations were unique and reflected her own personal attitude. She occasionally collaborated with Gary Ness, who gave Westwood concepts and titles for her collections.

Richard Branson and Westwood collaborated extensively to create the clothes for the Virgin Atlantic crew. The female crew members wore red suits with deliberately placed darts around the bust area to draw attention to their curves and hips.

The guys wore a three-piece suit in burgundy and gray with accents on the lapels and pockets. Westwood and Branson employed recycled polyester because they were both concerned about using sustainable materials in their designs to lessen their negative environmental effects.

Adele Opens Up About Her Struggle with Sciatica and Chronic Back Pain

Music Observer Staff on January 11, 2023

Image commercially licensed from DepositPhotos

At her residency in Las Vegas, Adele will deliver an outstanding performance regardless of what.

The singer, who kicked off his The Weeknd With Adele concert in November, revealed he suffered from severe back pain that made it difficult to walk while performing at Caesars Palace’s Colosseum on New Year’s Eve.

In a video clip of the event obtained by The Daily Star, Adele can be seen limping across the stage after interacting with the audience. As she hurried to get from one side of the stage to the other, she elaborated, “I have to waddle these days as I have really bad sciatica.”

Adele’s performance was nothing less than amazing despite her back pain. The audience was on its feet singing and dancing along as she performed hit songs like “Hello” and “Rolling in the Deep.”

Adele’s Las Vegas residency was a highly anticipated event and it is clear that nothing can stop the singer from giving her fans the best possible performance.She is a true professional and we all give us inspiration.

Illness

Adele opened up about her battle with chronic back pain in a recent interview with The Face. The singer revealed that her back pain started after she slipped her disc in a violent sneeze when she was 15.

“I’ve been in pain with my back for, like, half of my life, really,” Adele said. “It flares up, normally due to stress or from a stupid bit of posture.”

Adele’s back pain is caused by sciatica, a health condition that affects the sciatic nerve in the body.

Sciatica can be caused by a “herniated disk or an overgrowth of bone puts pressure on part of the nerve,” according to the Mayo Clinic. This can lead to inflammation, pain, and numbness in the lower back, hips, glutes, or legs.

Despite her chronic back pain, Adele has not let it stop her from performing at her sold-out, show-stopping concerts. She continues to deliver powerful performances, singing fan favorites such as “Hello,” “Set Fire to the Rain,” “I Drink Wine,” and “Rolling in the Deep.”

Adele recently posted a collection of photos from her performances on Friday and Saturday, including a photo of her wearing a “Happy New Year” headband.

Adele’s dedication to her craft is inspiring, and she continues to amaze audiences with her talent and determination. We wish her a fast recovery and hope to see her continue to deliver amazing performances in the future.

Adele Delays Show

Adele made a tearful apology to fans on the opening night of her residency, “Weekends With Adele,” at Caesars Palace. The singer had previously postponed the show just one day before its original run in January.

“I’m truly sorry for any inconvenience and any disappointment that I’ve caused, but we’re here tonight and together,” Adele told the audience, according to Variety. She added that while postponing the shows was difficult, it was “the best decision I ever made.”

Despite the delay, Adele’s Las Vegas residency has been highly anticipated, with tickets selling out almost immediately after they went on sale. The singer did not disappoint, delivering a powerful performance and belting out fan favorites such as “Hello” and “Set Fire to the Rain.”

Adele’s apology and dedication to delivering the best possible performance for her fans is a testament to her professionalism and commitment to her craft. We’re glad to see her back on stage and can’t wait to see what she has in store for the rest of her Las Vegas residency.

She also thanked Caesars Palace for their support, saying, “There has been a lot of s— written about me since I canceled those shows. I tell you — 90 percent of it is absolutely, completely made-up.”

In addition to her hits, Adele also regaled the audience with stories about her life and career.

She admitted that she had no idea when she wrote her album “21” that her life would become what it is today, and that while there have been amazing things about it, there have also been challenges.

Worst Moment

Adele has spoken out about her postponed Las Vegas residency, saying that it was the “worst moment” of her career.

The singer had initially been scheduled to perform at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace in January, but announced just one day before the shows that they would need to be postponed.

In an interview with Elle, Adele said that she “went into hiding” after the shows were postponed, but that she has no regrets about the decision. “It was the worst moment in my career, by far,” she said. “By far. I was so excited about those shows. It was devastating.”

The phenomenal singer went on to say that the stage setup was not right, and that the shows lacked the authenticity and intimacy that she craved.

“There was just no soul in it,” she said. “It was very disconnected from me and my band, and maybe I tried too hard to give it those things in such a controlled environment.”

Despite the disappointment of the postponed shows, Adele is now back on stage and performing to sold-out crowds in Las Vegas.

Her residency, “Weekends With Adele,” has received rave reviews, and fans are looking forward to seeing what she has in store for the rest of the run.

‘Avatar: The Way of Water’ Splashes Our Screens with Record Breaking Numbers

Music Observer Staff on January 11, 2023

Image commercially licensed from: Unsplash

This weekend, movie lovers went on a wild ride into the enchanting world of Pandora, helping James Cameron claim the throne at the top of the box office.

Avatar: The Way of Water found success with a remarkable $435 million worldwide opening weekend; Domestically, the film earned $134 million, and even more internationally, at $301 million per Comscore.

Sci-fi epics have been breaking box office records during the pandemic, and this latest release was no exception, ranking number three.

Spider-Man: No Way Home recently set a global debut record with $600 million in sales, but he soon rivaled Doctor Strange in his Multiverse of Madness, which grossed a staggering $442 million.

When Avatar premiered in 2009, it immediately made history.

Playing in over 3,400 theaters in the United States and Canada, its debut was a remarkable one. It grossed a staggering $77 million in its opening weekend, seven weeks at the box office before reaching his astronomical height of nearly $3 billion worldwide.

At 3 hours and 12 minutes long, it’s unclear whether the sequel will be as popular as its predecessor. Will audiences be able to withstand such a long game twice? Only time will tell.

Water World

Cameron insisted on a three-hour film, but received considerable opposition from everyone due to its long running time. Nevertheless, he felt a moral obligation to stick to his vision for the long term.

“Because it’s a complicated linear narrative, which is the worst scenario for trying to shorten, you’ve got a complex story servicing a lot of characters, and it’s like dominos falling: This has to happen for that to happen,” he stated.

“You’re not following a bunch of parallel plot lines in a way that you could take a lot out.”

Cameron is sure that viewers will stay captivated, ensuring an enriching experience for all.

“Equally important with length is pace — and the order of information and the engagement factor. As long as people are engaged, you’re good to go,” the director added.

“I feel like we managed to jump through all those hoops,” he said. “People seem pretty engaged.”

Meanwhile, after six weeks at the box office, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever continues its unstoppable reign, now earning a whopping $418 million. Last weekend alone saw an extra injection of cash to the tune of $5.4 million – that’s sure to leave fans in awe as this superhero sequel goes from strength to strength.

Additionally, Violent Night had a smashing debut as it entered the box office in third place with an impressive $5 million and took home nearly $34 million overall.

Completing the top five were Strange World, which earned over $5 million more to bring its total close to $34 million, followed by The Menu’s additional $2.2 and $1.7 million, respectively, power-punching them up to $33 million and $32 million.

How Production Went

Stephen Lang may have had it easier than his castmates from Avatar: The Way of Water.

Many stars flopped around in the depths, but not Lang – his character stayed mostly dry on set. Sam Worthington and Zoe Saldana were just a couple from an impressive lineup of talent that included Sigourney Weaver and Kate Winslet – all of whom plunged into the water.

“If he is in the water, he’d really like to get out of the water,” Lang said in an interview with EW of Col. Quaritch. “He’s never in there by choice, whereas there are many characters in this film who are water creatures. That’s where they exist.”

Cameron employed an innovative technique to capture the stunning underwater sequences of Avatar – performance capture. To ensure a truly authentic film, the cast underwent intensive training in free diving; no scuba gear was used.

With years of breath-holding experience, Cameron has explored the depths of ocean life as a free diver.

Lang proved to be a master at whatever challenge Quartich threw his way. She delivered the task with impressive skill and finesse.

“I did fine,” he stated modestly. “I can hold my breath in a static hold for probably five or six minutes. When I’m working, I can do a minute, minute and a half underwater when Jim says action, so I get the work done.”

Lesson in Freediving

The cast went on an adventure to learn the art of freediving from Kirk Krack, a renowned international master and explorer in incredible submarine territories.

Winslet’s remarkable skill on The Way of Water set made headlines as her ability to hold her breath for an astonishing seven minutes impressed the cast and crew.

“I think anything to do with water, it’s 10 times harder, whether you’re under it or whether you’re being drowned, sinking in it,” Worthington stated.

“The real challenge on this one was trying to preserve your character while you’re doing these things in water, because you could quite easily get caught up in your own head, which then takes you out of the scene, which takes you into your own fears, and then you’re not doing your job.”

Weaver, the ray of sunshine on set playing Jake and Neytiri’s adopted daughter Kiri, was always punctual, arriving to work with a 30-minute head start.

Training with her husband, Jim Simpson, in Krack breathing techniques soon became an essential point of focus for Weaver as she brought life and authenticity into her performance.

This technique of deep breathing allows you to take control of your heart rate before plunging into great depths, just as the film’s characters describe.

Avatar: The Way of Water is currently premiering in theaters.

Kate Winslet Works with James Cameron Again in ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’

Music Observer Staff on January 2, 2023

Nearly 30 years after the iconic Titanic, it seemed unlikely that Kate Winslet and James Cameron would be together again in a project.

Fans were thrilled to see history repeat itself with two of today’s most acclaimed figures.

At the start of the film partnership in 1997, the 22-year-old actress said: “You’d have to pay me a lot of money to work with Jim again.”

After a quarter century of difference, Avatar: The Way of Water brought together two creative forces that have evolved significantly in the 26 years since Titanic. The theatrical release is expected soon.

“You couldn’t compare the two. The two films are so different,” Winslet shared with EW when queried about collaborating with Cameron again.

“Literally, the only common thread is there’s water in both of them, but the water that is there for different reasons behaves in totally different ways. These experiences were so far apart.”

Winslet’s connection to the iconic Titanic movie may feel like old history, but it’s actually only been 26 years since its debut. An impressive feat considering how long we’ve felt it’s been a part of our lives.

“I turned 21 on that shoot. I am now 47 years old. It’s a very, very, very long time ago,” she stated.

“Jim, as a director, as a person, you know, we are just both different, older, [and] have hopefully learned a lot more in terms of how to tell stories and be creative contributors and collaborators.”

Come back Collaboration

Cameron and Winslet were anxious to work together in the wake of Titanic’s mega-success, but longed to reunite their powers over the years.

Now Cameron, 68, and Winslet, 47, the dynamic duo have decided to reunite despite the inevitable passage of time.

Disney and 20th Century’s Avatar: The Way of Water was unlike any other project, as it got further along the production line than we’ve ever seen before. With up to four sequel films on the horizon, this franchise is sure to be a blockbuster.

“I feel like he’s always checked in with me. ‘Are you busy right now?’ or ‘What’s going on? I may have something,'” Winslet recounted.

“Then I wouldn’t hear for a while, and I think he’s drifted off that idea. Then he’d be floating back in with another one. And then in 2014, he did say to me, ‘I’m gonna get you big and blue.'”

This Friday, movie-goers can experience an adventure of epic proportions.

At the helm are Winslet and Cliff Curtis as Ronal and Tonowari – two powerful leaders who must protect their Na’vi water tribe. Avatar: The Way of Water will surely provide thrilling thrills with a splash of drama.

An intrepid leader, Winslet’s character strikes an impressive balance between preserving her clan’s ancient customs and safeguarding their future with her warrior prowess.

Winslet Applauds Cameron

Winslet was in awe of Cameron’s mastery and understanding of the intricate mythos behind Avatar – an accomplishment that certainly did not go unrecognized.

“He knows every inch of it,” she stated. “He created a whole language. He created a set of intentions for these people: how they live and how they move and how they breathe and think and speak and eat and love and cherish. He did all that.”

She compares the filmmaker to a master in the kitchen, crafting an artful film dish that captivates viewers.

“A chef is never gonna send a great dish out to the table if he’s not happy with that plate.” She gives an example.

“He told me that, I think, he spent a year writing the first pass of the second [film] and then just hated it all and was like, ‘This is just s—. I’m gonna start again,'” Winslet reminisced.

“I’ve started building characters before and thought, ‘Hang on a minute. This is not what I’m meant to be doing at all. Okay, start again.’ It’s always a really terrifying moment.”

Reading the script for Titanic was an incredible experience for Winslet, who couldn’t believe how much secrecy shrouded its storyline.

“I definitely was given the bare minimum, initially. Very much character descriptions, a general sense of [Ronal], and the role that she played within her community. But it wasn’t until I read the script and discovered, obviously, all of the other elements that he had built in,” she stated.

“It’s a phenomenal experience reading a Jim Cameron script because it’s just so thorough. The guy is such a perfectionist.”

Avatar in the Film Industry

In 2009, James Cameron revolutionized the movie industry with Avatar, shattering box office records and cementing its place in film history.

Fast forward to 2021: audiences can expect a revival of this beloved saga – the next installment being Avatar 2: The Way of Water – just one part of four new films set for release.

Jake Sully, our heroic former Marine who traded his human body for that of a Na’vi on Pandora’s moon and found love with Neytiri, has created an entirely new life. He traded in the lush rainforests he once knew to raise their own family among sparkling oceans.

In the long-awaited sequel to James Cameron’s Avatar, tensions remain high between humanity and the Na’vi of Pandora. Stephen Lang reprises his role as Col. Quaritch – this time in a most formidable form.

The militarized organization RDA still poses a significant threat all these years later.

Mariah Carey Spreads Christmas Energy with Monroe

Music Observer Staff on January 2, 2023

Mariah Carey spread the Christmas spirit when she invited her daughter Monroe to join her on stage for a sold-out show in Toronto. The two delighted the crowd with their remarkable duet of holiday favorites.

The Yuletide queen went to Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena on Friday night for the official QOC, and her Mini-Me sidekick, 11-year-old Monroe, was spotted performing “Away in a Manger.”

They let out a few high-pitched whistles. They dressed to impress in white gowns that gleamed under tiaras fit for royalty. Plus, this performance was a mesmerizing reminder that it’s already time to get into the holiday spirit.

“Eleven years ago, I got the greatest gift,” Carey stated during Monroe’s introduction, later citing her son, Moroccan. “I don’t have birthdays, but the birthing day was the greatest gift ever when I had my twins, Roc and Roe.”

Carrie has double parenting duties as she’s raising her iconic twins with ex-husband Nick.

Monroe Sings

In an unprecedented collaboration, Carey and Monroe joined forces to perform a captivating duet that captivated audiences around the world. It’s the first time the two will be on stage together.

“We’ve been working on this one for a minute,” she said.

The audience was enthralled when an 11-year-old joined the performance at the halfway mark. Together, they produced a beautiful combination of whistle tones that amazed everyone.

Monroe and Moroccan recently made a special appearance with their mother at the dazzling Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, performing everyone’s favorite holiday anthem, “All I Want for Christmas is You.”

Carey will bring her spectacular song and dance show to Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena tonight before making a special festive appearance in New York at Madison Square Garden.

Her upcoming “Merry Christmas To All!” Holiday shows are sure to get everyone into the spirit of the season!

Furthermore, she’ll perform her timeless classics, such as the number one hit “All I Want for Christmas is You,” in a two-hour TV special on CBS.

Not the Official “Queen of Christmas”

Mariah Carey’s dream of becoming the “QOC” was not to come true.

The U.S. Trademark Trial and Appeal Board denied her request to own the title she made popular with her 1994 hit, “All I Want For Christmas Is You.”

To protect her title as the world’s sole full-time Christmas caroling artist, Elizabeth Chan thwarted Mariah Carey from solidifying her trademark for “Princess of Christmas” and “QOC.”

“This was a classic case of trademark bullying,” Chan’s attorney Louis Tompros said. “We are pleased with the victory and delighted that we were able to help Elizabeth fight back against Carey’s overreaching trademark registrations.”

Carey vied for the coveted privilege to use “Queen of Christmas,” “Princess Christmas” and her signature “QOC” on an array of products, from lively tunes alluring fragrances and glamorous shades – even extending as far as coconut milk.

Had Carey’s bid succeeded, she would have been officially recognized as the “Queen of Christmas,” with exclusive rights to use that title. She could even take legal action against anyone who dared misuse it or refers to another artist by such a name in media outlets.

Love

Darlene Love, the 81-year-old “Queen of Christmas,” called out Mariah Carey for trying to further capitalize on the holiday season with her tracks.

Letterman had already crowned Darlene as Queen a year before when “All I Want For Christmas Is You” was released – and it’s clear she has no intention of changing that status.

For nearly three decades, legendary performer Love has gifted us with a beloved holiday classic.

First sung on Dave Letterman’s late-night show for 29 years and continued when she moved to The View in 2015, Mariah Carey’s “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” is an annual gift from the incredible singer-songwriter that we all look forward to.

Parton Doesn’t Compete

But Parton graciously passed on the honor to La Mimi, displaying her generosity and admirable humility.

“I’m not going to compete with Mariah … You think of Christmas, you think of Mariah. I’m happy to be second in line to her,” she said.

Parton may have to take a backseat this holiday season as Chan seeks to protect the Yuletide throne for herself and all queens of Christmases yet to come. But, with her 2013 album Queen of Christmas, it’s clear that Mimi is taking no chances in keeping her festive crown.

“Christmas is a season of giving, not the season of taking, and it is wrong for an individual to attempt to own and monopolize a nickname like Queen of Christmas for the purposes of abject materialism,” Chan released a statement.

She added, “As an independent artist and small business owner, my life’s work is to bring people together for the holiday season, which is how I came to be called the QOC.”

“I wear that title as a badge of honor and with full knowledge that it will be — and should be — bestowed on others in the future. My goal in taking on this fight was to stand up to trademark bullying not just to protect myself, but also to protect future Queens of Christmas.”

‘It’s A Wonderful Life’ Actor Brendan Fraser Attends a Virtual Table Reading with Others

Music Observer Staff on January 2, 2023

Anyone can achieve great things with the help of friends.

On Sunday, an all-star cast of Hollywood favorites gathered virtually to kick off the holiday season by sharing some holiday cheer.

Brendan Fraser and Christina Applegate, along with Ken Jeong, Fred Armisen, Gene Smart and many others, light up our screens to read the 1946 Christmas classic It’s a Wonderful Life at a charity table.

Make this holiday season extra special by watching an encore presentation of the live stream event.

Your participation will not only bring you entertainment and joy, but will also benefit a good cause. Indeed, all proceeds from the show go to the Ed Asner Family Center’s valuable mental health and growth programs for children with disabilities and their families.

Fraser took on the role of George Bailey, a man who faces despair and is ready to give up – all of George’s life until he meets his guardian angel, Clarence (Seth Rogen). It reveals how small actions can have lasting impact.

Despite their best efforts, the cast’s performance was challenged by several technical issues.

“I’m having a technical in George Bailey-land over here, in case you haven’t noticed! My iPad is dying!” Fraser said at one point in the show.

Applegate then replied: “You better get a plug!” J.K. Simmons and James Cromwell only chuckled.

“I’ll keep reading until it croaks,” Fraser kid before going back to his monologue.

Fraser

In one hilarious moment, Fraser pretended to make an old-fashioned phone call to an imaginary recipient far from his ear.

When it was time for Applegate to take action, she quipped, “Well, I’m going to hold my phone as far away from my ear as Brendan did!” Fraser, Jeong and Sue Ann Pien all found her clever remark hilariously entertaining.

To further promote their cause, Tom Bergeron was instrumental in organizing a series of activities to generate understanding and contributions for the charity.

At a thrilling event, Judd Apatow and Leslie Mann were honored amidst live performances from music icons Jennifer Hudson and Wallows.

To top it off, coveted autographed movie and TV items made their rounds on the auction block, with bidders vying for ownership of the prizes.

Discover the details you need to be part of this incredible live stream experience – from purchasing tickets to learning more about what’s in store.

It’s a Wonderful Life

With snow glistening in the streetlights and holiday cheer bubbling through Bedford Falls, one could almost hear Christmas carols ringing from George’s footsteps as he ran to wish the cherished Building & Loan a festive season.

But this time, it was accompanied by an extra special crunchy soundtrack.

During the Golden Age of film, Hollywood studios were determined to provide viewers with a realistic wintery atmosphere.

But instead of authentic snow, productions relied on creative substitution such as bleached cornflakes and — surprisingly — even asbestos for scenes that required close-up shots.

To make the winter scene look truly authentic, footprints in the snow needed to be included – a vital element for transporting viewers directly into this white wonderland.

George is the epitome of kindness; however, his holiday cheer gets a harsh reality check when an angel visits him. In It’s A Wonderful Life, George receives a lesson in life as guardian angel Clarence (Henry Travers) shows him what darkness awaits if he had never existed.

“Capra wanted to be able to shoot live dialogue in close-ups while snow was falling, and he also knew he needed a lot of snow in general,” author of Christmas in the Movies, Jeremy Arnold, said.

“The snow is vital to the storytelling,” he continued.

“It conveys not just a joyful Christmas Eve but also the character’s rebirth. It tells the audience George is back in the real world. He’s back from this alternate reality; the snow starts falling, and we get it right away. And that is a very gentle, cleansing snow.”

Design of the Set

In search of a way to bring his 4-acre set alive, Capra called upon Russell Shearman – head of the RKO special effects department. With their combined expertise, they crafted an ingeniously silent solution that transformed the scene into something unique and magical.

The final solution was an ingenious blend of Foamite from fire extinguishers, soap, sugar and water. When released under high pressure with a silent fan, the mixture created a gentle waft over any set.

“You could create various types of falling snow from really gentle to wind-driven, and it could be sprayed anywhere on the set in a targeted way,” Arnold elaborated.

“That was something that hadn’t really been possible because when you’re releasing cornflakes, you’re basically just dropping them straight down.”

Stewart and the cast brought a winter wonderland to life with this clever trick – creating an icy atmosphere even amid blazing hot summer days in L.A.

“The heat is the greatest endorsement of the invention,” Arnold added. “Because the snow looks very real. It looks great even in those hot conditions.”

Photo: Meredith Corp

Lana Del Rey Provides Us Another To-Die-For Album

Music Observer Staff on January 2, 2023

…

Lana Del Rey shared her latest album Did You Know That There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd. She also revealed her theme song.

The album follows Blue Banisters. Furthermore, the musician will release it on March 10 via Interscope.

Additionally, the cover features a list of contributors to the album. It includes producers Jack Antonoff, Drew Erickson and Zach Dawes. Guests such as Jon Batiste, Father John Misty, Tommy Genesis and engineer Laura Sisk also feature on the cover.

Lana Del Rey announced new records in 2021. These include Chemtrails Over the Country Club and Blue Banisters. When she released the second LP, the musician broke records for most No. 1 albums on Billboard’s Alternative Albums chart.

Recently, Lana Del Rey released “Watercolor Eyes” for Euphoria – a Netflix series. She also covered Father John Misty’s “Buddy’s Rendezvous.”

Furthermore, Del Rey shared an update on a recent piece of music and a manuscript for a book she was working on earlier this fall. In several deleted clips, she claimed someone stole more hard drives, two camcorders, and a laptop from her car.

The incident led to several leaks of her unfinished tracks. Also, she has lost the manuscript for the supposedly new book.

Del Rey Career

The industry recognizes Del Rey’s music for its cinematic caliber and its navigation through tragic love, attraction and sadness. Additionally, she cites contemporary pop culture and Americana from the 1950s to 1960s.

Additionally, the singer received multiple awards and nominations throughout her career. It includes a Satellite Award, two MTV Europe Music Awards, and two Brit Awards. In addition, she secured six Grammy Awards nominations and a Golden Globe Award nod.

Variety gave her honor at the Hitmakers Awards. They named her “one of the most influential singer-songwriters of the 21st century.”

Following several projects, Del Rey’s spotlight debut finally came in 2011. The popular success of her single “Video Games” brought the breakthrough.

After that, she signed a recording contract with Interscope and Polydor.

Her second album, Born to Die (2012), bagged critical and commercial acclaim. In 2014, she released her third album, Ultraviolence (2014). It featured more use of the guitar instrument. Moreover, it debuted at No. 1 on the US Billboard 200.

During her fourth (Honeymoon, 2015) and fifth (Lust for Life, 2017) albums, the crowd saw a comeback to the charismatic convention of her early releases. Meanwhile, her sixth album, Fucking Rockwell! (2019), navigated soft rock.

She collaborated on soundtracks for visual media. Furthermore, she wrote and performed in the musical short Tropico. And it earned critical acclaim. She also dropped “Young and Beautiful” for The Great Gatsby, a romantic drama.

And the rest is history.

Billie Eilish Discusses How It is Growing Up in the Public Eye

Music Observer Staff on January 2, 2023

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The first person born in the 21st century to bag an Oscar is Billie Eilish.

As per the 20-year-old musician, she had impostor syndrome. Additionally, growing up in the spotlight for her was a “bruising experience.”

The BBC has listed Billie as one of the women on the BBC 100 Women list. Each year they identify the 100 inspirational and empowering women around the world. And this year’s list recognizes the evolution since the list was born ten years ago.

“I was doing an interview earlier today,” she said while pulling her hair free from two tight buns. “And I was saying that when a new person comes into my life – any sort of romantic thing – you guys are the first thing I mention. ‘Just so you know, this comes with me!”

And the public goes wild.

But now, Billie is sitting with the BBC 100 Women for an interview that she will soon speak about on stage during a concert. This interview discusses her career, that’s not even a decade old.

Born as Billie Eilish Pirate Baird O’Connell, the singer grew up in Los Angeles as the child of an actor and musician. Note that her parents were extras on shows like Friends and The West Wing. The “I’m a Bad Guy” singer was also homeschooled with her older brother Finneas O’Connell.

Her brother also lives in the music industry as a guitarist, singer, and songwriter.

Moreover, since she was four, writing songs has become her hobby. And her rise to the industry connotes a story of an icon.

Spotlight Growth for Billie

In 2015, Billie – then 14 years old – posted ”Ocean Eyes” on SoundCloud for her dance teacher to hear. Finneas wrote the song. And when she woke up, everything came in. She received a record deal and a set of meetings with older men.

“I look back fondly for the most part. But you know, it was so funny to be a 14-year-old girl with my 17-year-old brother. And, you know, just doing hundreds of meetings constantly,” Billie said in the interview with BBC.

“It was a lot of meetings with people that didn’t know how to talk to 14-year-old girls.”

Billie rose to fame, and her social media handles exploded. She now boasts 100 million followers on Instagram and over 60 million on TikTok. A post from Billie and the global fanbase would consistently bomb it with commentary.

According to her, she’s well aware of the intoxication and acidity of the comments. This is because she has been in so many herself. And it’s petrifying to be the subject of millions of conversations.

And as a domino effect, global fame precedes global interest from a few giant media outlets. The media analyzed and reiterated everything she said – these are people twice her age. It includes statements from the little to more serious personal matters such as living with depression and suicidal thoughts.

She said it’s a bruising event to grow up under the scrutiny of the public. Furthermore, defending statements you released when you were a teenager is challenging.

Netflix Docu-Series ‘Harry & Meghan’ Chronicles the Royal Couple’s Lives

Music Observer Staff on December 26, 2022

Image commercially licensed from: Unsplash

Royal observers have had plenty of time to ponder what Harry & Meghan Markle have been up to since stepping down from their positions in the British royal family.

But now audiences can get a glimpse inside the Netflix documentary series Harry & Meghan. The revealing documentary series offers fascinating insight into life as contemporary royals.

Liz Garbus has put together a unique six-part documentary series that delves into the early days of Prince Harry and Markle’s relationship, from their bittersweet departure from royal life.This captivating show is sure to blow your mind.

Learn more about 6 sensational episodes of Harry & Meghan. We explore some of the most breathtaking, most revealing moments. All available to stream now. These stories reveal never-before-seen details about this beloved duo that are sure to captivate you.

Harry & Meghan Scenes

In the early days of her relationship with Prince Harry, Meghan Markle remembers feeling overwhelmed and intimidated by intense media attention.

Markle caught the world’s attention when news broke about her relationship with Prince Harry, making it difficult for the Suits star to remain anonymous in Toronto.

“It felt like all the U.K. media descended upon Toronto,” she says. “My house was just surrounded. Just men sitting in their cars all the time, waiting for me to do anything. My neighbors texted me saying, ‘They’re knocking on everyone’s doors; they’re trying to find you.'”

Prince Harry was urged to stay above the fray and disregard any criticism that might arise from their relationship.

From describing her as an “exotic” addition to the royal family to defying perfection standards that most people can’t follow, Markle’s British media coverage is far from progressive.

“Within that first week that [the relationship] became public knowledge, the first story was, ‘Harry’s new girl (almost) straight outta Compton,'” says Harry in episode 2 of Harry & Meghan. “I was like, whoa.”

The Duke of Wessex added: “The direction from the Palace was, ‘Don’t say anything.’ But what people need to understand is, as far as a lot of the family were concerned, everything that she was being put through, they’d been put through as well.”

“So it was almost like a rite of passage, and some of the members of the family [were] like, ‘Right, but my wife had to go through that, so why should your girlfriend be treated any differently? Why should you get special treatment, why should she be protected?’ And I said, ‘The difference here is the race element.'”

Meghan Markle is known for her abiding love of hugs (something which sets her apart from more traditional members).

In episode 2, Markle reveals how her unconventional behavior might surprise even the youngest members of the royal family.

“When Will and Kate came over… for dinner, I remember I was in ripped jeans, and I was barefoot,” she states. “Like, I was a hugger, always been a hugger. I didn’t realize that that is jarring for a lot of Brits.”

Little did she know, the royal family’s etiquette extended far beyond public appearances – even private matters.

Upon meeting Queen Elizabeth for the first time, Meghan Markle was surprised to discover that she was expected to curtsy.

Episode 2 takes us on a journey down memory lane as Markle and Harry recall an essential moment of their relationship: meeting the Queen – Harry’s grandmother.

“My grandmother was the first senior member of the family that Meghan met,” Harry says. “She had no idea what it all consisted of, so it was a bit of a shock to the system for her.”

“How do you explain that to people?” Harry adds. “How do you explain that you bow to your grandmother? And that you will need to curtsy, especially to an American? Like, that’s weird!”

Prince Harry expressed deep regret over a moment of lapse in judgment when he donned a Nazi uniform.

At the tender age of 20, Prince Harry sparked public controversy with a most unexpected fashion choice- attending a party in an SS officer’s uniform.

Decades later, he publicly reflects on his careless decision to don such clothing and its enduring ramifications in episode 3 of Harry & Meghan.

“It was one of the biggest mistakes of my life,” he states.

“I felt so ashamed afterward. All I wanted to do was make it right. I sat down and spoke to the Chief Rabbi in London, which had a profound impact on me. I went to Berlin and spoke to a Holocaust survivor. I could have just ignored it and got on and probably made the same mistakes over and over again in my life. But I learned from that.”

More revelations are to be unveiled in later episodes of the docu-series. All six episodes of Harry & Meghan are available for streaming.

Prince Harry emotionally recounted his beloved mother, Princess Diana, tears.

Harry & Meghan unveil the royal spotlight.

Even as a young boy, Harry was keenly aware of the intense glare and scrutiny placed upon his mother – Princess Diana – by an ever-watchful public. This unfortunate reality would become even more pronounced for him later.

“Rarely do we have a holiday without someone with a camera, you know, jumping out of a bush or something,” he states.

“Within the family, [and] within the system, the advice that’s always given is, ‘Don’t react, [and] don’t feed into it.’ There was always public pressure with its fair share of drama, stress, and also tears, and witnessing those tears. You could always see it on my mum’s face, and I guess those are the moments when I thought, ‘Hang on, what am I? Who am I? What am I part of?'”

Wednesday Addams Dance Craze Spans Worldwide

Music Observer Staff on December 26, 2022

Wednesday Addams is a tour de force of precision and intent; she moves carefully and never settles for anything less than her desired goals. Not even the simplest smile or wink is without the intention of the boldest member of this legendary family.

At her prom, the usually grumpy teenager improvised her passion for dancing. This unexpected move caused controversy among her colleagues and viewers.

Less than three minutes later, Wednesday’s most iconic moment was born. It’s the liberation and joy of the show’s beloved protagonist. A scene that embodies a sense of freedom and makes everyone smile.

A mysterious glint of excitement shone in her eyes, hinting at a darker passion. Her body rustled and rose with newfound liveliness – an extraordinary sight.

The Wednesday dance evokes the classical era with an elegant, sophisticated elegance that cannot be confused with the latest trends. All forms of old movement are combined with vivid movements.

This unusual dance somehow taps into the mystique deep within us, spreading like wildfire across the land and even beyond the mysterious Jericho.

Fans of Wednesday’s hit show not only witnessed an epic storyline, but also mesmerizing choreography. The intricate moves hooked viewers and ultimately helped make it one of the most popular Netflix series of all time.

Viral Dance

Wednesday doesn’t embrace modern technology, but fans are embracing Wednesday in this trend.

Lady Gaga’s early hit “Bloody Mary” experienced a remarkable resurgence thanks to its online popularity enabled by fan-made TikToks – an impressive feat more than ten years after the song was initially released.

Jenna Ortega inspired a global dance craze with her Wednesday choreo. Celebrities worldwide jumped on board, showcasing their unique styles and culture in creative moves to pay homage to Jenna’s original routine.

Wednesday Addams may have rolled in her grave to find out that the moves she popularized had gone mainstream, but there’s something about this dance that won’t die.

What could it be? Perhaps a supernatural force is keeping its legacy alive – after all, Wednesday always seemed capable of enchanting those around her.

A Wednesday Scene

Just a mere month old, the “Wednesday” dance sensation has become an internet phenomenon with its own distinct “mythology.” Jenna Drenten, Associate Professor of Marketing at Loyola University Chicago, explores how people use TikTok and other platforms to share their identities.

Ortega brings her signature sardonic wit to life as Wednesday Addams in an infectious dance routine that she choreographed herself.

She drew inspiration from an eclectic range of sources – the innovative director Bob Fosse, punk songstress Siouxsie Sioux and ’80s goth dance clubs. Furthermore, her work likely contains subtle nods toward the classic TV show The Addams Family.

Ortega’s self-taught routine has been a hit on TikTok, appealing to non-dancers who can relate to and appreciate her lack of formal dance experience.

“I’m not a dancer, and I’m sure that’s obvious,” Ortega said in an interview with NME.

But despite her dedication, Ortega’s actions were met with controversy. She revealed to NME that she was actually filming the dance sequence while awaiting confirmation of a positive Covid-19 test result – an absolute risk taken in pursuit of creativity.

The film’s bold approach challenged traditional safety measures and demonstrated that creativity can thrive despite uncertain times.

It’s no surprise that the trends which capture our attention and become part of cultural discussion often move beyond their origin, according to Drenten.

As these phenomena circulate further across various platforms, they have more significant potential for extended longevity in the collective consciousness.

The Corn Kid skyrocketed to fame after clips of him singing his ode to corn went viral on TikTok. But, little did he know, this would lead to incredible opportunities like working with Chipotle, Green Giant and South Dakota.

A Ritual We Share

The “Wednesday” dance has tapped into a powerful human truth – people love to learn new moves that help them stand out socially. It’s the perfect way for anyone looking to show off their skills and make an impression.

We all have those dance moves that come to life at the moment – like “Electric Slide,” “Macarena,” and, of course, let’s not forget the timeless classic, “Cupid Shuffle.”

These steps are staples at wedding receptions and bat mitzvahs worldwide – so ingrained into our minds we can bust them out without a second thought.

At a big event, it’s easy for the crowd to get swept up in an infectious beat like Pavlov’s dogs responding to their master’s bell. However, it also becomes a shared ritual that fosters “a sense of solidarity and belonging,” Drenten stated.

“Every gesture and movement enables the person performing it to inherently say, ‘I get it, I’m in the know, we have this shared experience,'” Drenten added.

Dance trends seem to be a mainstay on TikTok, from the famous “Renegade” routine all the way up to Lizzo’s latest hit – “About Damn Time.”

But one dance that genuinely broke through was The Wednesday Dance. It was set against an unlikely punk anthem by The Cramps called “Goo Goo Muck” – it quickly earned quite a few new admirers.

The moves were easy enough to memorize and master, according to Drenten, “straightforward but unique.”