Let's Talk Hallmark Christmas Movies - BehindtheScenezz TV Premieres First Episode Discussing the Pros and Cons (Wait There Are None) of Hallmark Christmas Movies: Candace Cameron Bure Pics Featured

BehindtheScenezz is starting BTSTV! Our first "episode" is now available on our sister Youtube Channel. It's the unedited version of our first show. It's about Hallmark Christmas movies so we figured we should get it up soon!

In this episode you'll hear Suzanne Ordas Curry and Beth Abramson Brier discuss one of their favorite guilty pleasures, Hallmark movies. They talk about what they like about them, going into detail on some, and what makes them so full of holiday spirit. In this episode they focus on Candace Cameron Bure movies - whom they dub the Queen of Hallmark. Editor's note- they forgot to talk about A Shoe Addict's Christmas so they will cover that at a later date.

They also give their current Top 5 must-see Hallmark Christmas movies. View video here:

 If video does not play click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C_1VdMwo0G4&t=4s

Give Yourself the Gift of Peace of Mind This Season: Learn How to Defend Yourself Against an Assualt from Professional Stunt Man Scott Coscia at a Free Comprehensive Assault Prevention Seminar in NYC

Scott Coscia onset with Tracey Morgan

Professional New York City/Hollywood Stunt Coordinator Scott Coscia is presenting a FREE Comprehensive Assault Prevention seminar on Saturday, December 15th at The Tank, 312 West 36th Street from 11am-1am  in New York City.

The class will cover the many different ways a female - or male can prevent or defend against a sexual assault. Though you may think you are helpless, there are some simple and more complex tactics you can use to protect yourself.

Scott is a former New York City Police Officer who has also been a bodyguard to stars. In addition, he has worked on shows such as Shark Tank, Ink Master and Minute to Win it.  Using his police training and martial arts training, he has been doing work in film as a weapons specialist and stunt coordinator.

Althought it is free, a donation of $3-$5 is always appreciated. Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/2199776530283551/

DriverX the Movie Starring Patrick Fabian, Tanya Clarke with Desmin Borges, Melissa Fumero, Oscar Nunez Opens with Special Screening in NYC: Photos and Video

Desmin Borges, Tanya Clarke and Patrick Fabian of DriverX Movie

By Suzanne Ordas Curry

DriverX the Movie  had a special Sneak Peak Screening at the IFC Center in New York City the Tuesday before it's national release opening, November 30th.

DriverX is the story of  a middle-aged man coming of age as he embarks on a new career as a rideshare driver (called DriverX in the movie. Patrick Fabian plays the husband, father and former breadwinner of the housefhold whose former job was owning, ironically, a record store called The Last Record Store.

Event Review: Irving Berlin's Holiday Inn at the PaperMill Playhouse in NJ - Glitz, Glam, Dancing and Shining Performances by the Cast Make This A Holiday Must-See For Everyone

by Beth Abramson Brier

I don’t know about you but after just one pre-Thanksgiving snowstorm, I’m done. Instead of a white Christmas, I’m dreaming of a glam Christmas. A dazzling, shimmery, twinkly, jingle bell Christmas. Just like the ones I used to know. Kinda. Take it from this Jewish girl with holiday envy - check out of the cold and check into Holiday Inn now playing at Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn, New Jersey. Based on the beloved black-and-white movie classic from Universal Pictures, Holiday Inn features the music and lyrics of Irving Berlin (who obviously shares my secret obsession for reindeer and mistletoe along with latkes).

INTERVIEW: Actress Hayley Podschun Talks about Her Role in Holiday Inn at the Paper Mill Playhouse, White Christmases, Podcasts and Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls

Interview by Beth Abramson Brier

Just a week before opening night, on the evening of the big snowstorm, I had a chance to chat with the talented and amiable Hayley Podschun, one of the female leads of Holiday Inn not caught in the snarled traffic.

Hayley, were you familiar with the classic movie version of Holiday Inn?

Hayley Podschun: Growing up I watched A Christmas Story and White Christmas and only four years ago did I first see Holiday Inn. I love that the stage production is a fresh modernized take on the story.

Indie Film Awakening Arlene by Brad Forenza Wraps Production in NJ - Sopranos Star Vincent Pastore Stars, Music is by Grammy-Winner Julie Gold in this Short About A Woman Coming of Age in MId-life

Jersey City, NJ, November 2018 – Awakening Arlene, a short film written and directed by Brad Forenza (Breaking Points), with original songs by Julie Gold (Grammy-winner, “From a Distance”) recently wrapped production. The quest-oriented, later-life coming-of-age film stars Jo Walker and Vincent Pastore (SAG Award-winner, The Sopranos).

As Walker, who plays the title character, observes: “Awakening Arlene addresses existential themes like freedom, aging, and angst. It’s the story of a middle-aged woman struggling to make sense of her worlds, both large and small. The problem is that her worlds often defy logic and feel beyond reproach.”

Singer/songwriter Julie Gold opens the film with haunting voice and perspective through her original lyric, “Don’t Ask Me (I Don’t Know) “Awakening Arlene is just what the world needs right now: a female protagonist finding her voice and taking action,” says Gold.

View: Christmas Movies on the Hallmark Channel, Lifetime, Netflix - If You Like Princes, Castles, Snow, Romance, Christmas Festivals, Singing and Happy Endings Your Stocking This Year Will be Overflowing

Never Too Early To Start Watching

Just when you might be thinking, well, I guess it's close enough to start thinking Christmas, you will realize you have already missed quite a lot of holiday movie viewing. It seems that this year there is just too much - yes, too much, and I say this even though I can bing fo 8 hours straight on holiday movies without a break (mind mush at that point, however).

Interview: Actor Desmin Borges of You're The Worst Talks About His Role as Another Complicated Man in DriverX Movie with Patrick Fabian

                                                                                                                  Interview by Suzanne Ordas Curry
Actor Desmin Borges, who has been seen on many notable tv shows and films including playing a very memorable vet with PTSD on FX’s You’re The Worst, is now starring in a new comedy-drama called DriverX, which chronicles the life and riders of a ride-share driver played by Patrick Fabian (Better Call Saul). Desmin plays one of the service users, Tommy, a comedic character trying to find himself in the back seat of a car as well as through some very interesting night-time rendezvous.

Also starring in the movie, which starts its theater run late November 2018 and can also be seen on many streaming platforms at the same time, are Tanya Clarke, Melissa Fumero, Oscar Nunez, Max Gail and Travix Schuldt.

I had the opportunity to talk to Desmin about his role in the film, learn about his comedic inspiration, and get a glimpse into what makes this successful actor tick.

-----------------------------------------See DriverX in Theaters and On Demand Starting November 30, 2018

Interview: Actor Desmin Borges Talks His Experience Playing Edgar Quintero on Who's The Worst Now Streaming - What He Learned About Vets, PTSD and Why Vets Did and Didn't Relate to His Character

Everyday more vets come home and have to assimilate into civilian life. In You're The Worst, which is streaming on many platforms, Desmin Borges plays a vet with PTSD, and lots of other problems.  We chat with Edgar on what he learned playing this part, and how he was so proud to make a connection with our veterans through this role. 

Tell me what is was like doing the role of Edgar, a role that has not been tackled before in this manner.

Interview: Actress/Activist/Producer/Entreprenuer Alysia Reiner of Orange is the New Black and Better Things: Read about her Upcoming Film Egg, Life, The Women's Movement, Her Favorite Shows and Why She Loves NY

Alysia and her mother on the Red Carpet

                                                                                      
                                                                                                                              Interview by Suzanne Ordas Curry
Alysia Reiner proudly accepted the Made in New York award at the 2017 MUSE Awards sponsored by the New York Women in Film and Television, and spoke about the things that mattered to her, that she feels we all should care about. As an actress, producer, mother, wife and entreprenuer she speaks out on what she's seen, dealt with and what could be made better. Often hitting on controversial topics, she's not afraid to speak her mind. 

As Warden Fig on Netflix's Orange is the New Black, she's used the platform to speak about prison reform. She talks about women's rights, democracy, gun control, the environment and motherhood. Her next feature film called Egg coming in 2019, which she produced with her husband, actor David Alan Basche, covers the topic of surrogacy and explores the choices women have now. It is her second feature film which is female-centric, meaningful - and entertaining. Her first feature film which she was a producer on, called Equity, starred Anna Gunn as a female investment banker navigating the male-dominated world of Wall Street. This film won a Women's Image Network Award.She will also be seen in the new movie An Acceptable Loss in 2019. 

New Filmmaker Series: New York City's Hannah Roze Tackles Sisterhood With a Little Help from Her Sisters in her First Short Film Entitled The Disenchantment of a Young Adult and Wild Child

Hannah Roze is an up and coming actress, writer and filmmaker, though her greatest satsifaction comes from acting. Her first short film, The Disenchantment of a Young Adult and Wild Child, has been making the film festival from the West to the East Coast. This New Yorker who does a mean British accent from her mom's side of the family- is a force to be reckoned with in film as well as in her "day job"- a NYC tour guide. Read more about the making of her new film, how she enjoys the company of women on a set, and what's she learned so far.

So You Want to Be A Television Meteoroligst: WABC-TV New York Meteorologist Any Freeze Has Some Advice on How To Get Started

It's always fascinating to see how people get there start, especially when it's a fascinating job. I had the honor of speaking to the lovely and talented meteorologist Amy Freeze of  ABC New York’s Eyewitness News how she came about becoming a meteoroligst in the the biggest TV market in the United States.Sometimes the best way to figure out how to get to where you want to be is to see how other people did it. Here’s what Amy had to say:

Q. What sparked you to think, “I want to be a meteorologist?”

Amy Freeze: In college I studied print journalism. I  did a lot of work with foreign policy. I did a study abroad in South Africa. I studied in Germany. I was very interested in what was happening with the European Union.

I wrote some poems. but I ended up writing for a television station, that happened up in Portland Oregon. When I got up to the newsroom there was an opportunity to start doing weather at the state universtiy, and they chose me to do it because of my name. They  were like, you know, your name is Freeze so you should do this and it got the ball rolling. Then I had to further my education in it.

Q: You already had a college degree and were highly educated, but this was a lot of math, right?

Amy Freeze: Definitely. Math and physics play a big role in meteorology and even when you're in the job you have to constantly understand those things.

Interview: Meteorologist Amy Freeze of New York City's WABC Eyewitness News Talks Weather, Spaghetti Models, Motherhood and What Her Real Name Is

By Suzanne Ordas Curry

We’ve come a long way from the days of Ted Baxter and Anchorman. Amy Freeze is a meteorologist with ABC Eyewitness News in New York City. She does the weather reports with ease and a smile, making even the harshest forecasts palatable. She also is a correspondent for other events, including the New York City Marathon, which is near and dear to her as she is a runner herself. I had the pleasure of meeting her at a social function and she agreed to an intervew. (Note: Some of this content is a repost from an earlier article).. 

Remember the term "weatherman?" Well that went out with the milkman. Meteorology is a hot topic these days, and we need poised, professional, educated people delivering the news. I can’t remember a time prior to this past decade when the weather was one of the top topics on the national evening news topics like it is now. There’s almost always something going on and in many instances its quite disastrous, devouring unusual amounts of resources like manpower and money. Growing up, I can’t recall many storms or weather events, if that was even a term decades ago, that had the effects that weather does now. Of course now we have more people, more development, more to upset.

NJ Event: Your Thrilling Next Chapter Awaits You - Learn How You Can Make a Change in Your LIfe with Jackie Pantaliano

Are you looking to do something new in your life? Whether you are in your thirties or your sixties, you can make a change and start a new chapter in your life. This workshop will take place Sat, November 3, 2018 at 10AM – 12:00 PM EDT at Beneficial Bank,  1901 New Jersey 70#E in Cherry Hill, NJ 08003.

Hosted by Jackie Pantaliano, who has had her own business ImPRessions doing public relations and publicity for decades, and who herself has embarked on a new career,  you will gain insights as to what the rest of your life has in store for you.

Movie Review: Halloween with Jamie Lee Curtis - This Horror Movie Delivers Blood, Scares, Gore and Everything Else Desired by a Die-Hard or New Horror Fan

Review by Connor Moriarty

Halloween (2018) admirably fills the shoes left by its predecessor. Direction is sharp, performances are strong, horror sequences are suspenseful and exciting, and the blood flows oh so beautifully. Writer/Director David Gordon Green and collaborator Danny McBride have reinvigorated a franchise that, for the past two decades, has put out nothing but laughably bad sequels and remakes. While it may not live up to the greatness of the original 1978 classic, fans and newcomers alike should find this new entry unequivocally satisfying.

Even with all the praise I just gave, Halloween (2018) doesn’t do anything new with the Michael Myers character. Michael stalks. Michael stabs. Michael stabs again. If you’ve seen any of the 6 sequels or even just the two remakes, you know what to expect. Even Laurie Strode’s paranoia and action hero persona aren’t new elements – see H20. However, it’s this barebones approach that makes the film so enjoyable. There’s no forced sibling backstories, no druid cults, and no reality TV shows - thank God!

Egg: A New Film on Motherhood Directed by Marianna Palka and Starring Christina Hendricks, Alysia Reiner, Anna Camp, Gbenga Akinnagbe and David Alan Basche to Premiere in Theaters and Streaming January 2018

Cast and team behind Egg the movie at Tribeca premiere.

A new film called Egg will be out in theaters  and streaming on January 18th, distributed by Gravitas. The film, which takes a new look on the ever-changing concept of motherhood and family has a lot of familiar names in it. It stars Christina Hendricks (Madmen and most recently The Romanoffs), Anna Camp (Pitch Perfect), Alysia Reiner (Equity, Orange is the New Black), Gbenga Akinnagbe (The Deuce) and David Alan Basche (Equity, The Exes).

This film centers around two couples that have a very different take on life with and without children and offers food for thought on new options for motherhood in this century. Centered around the lives of two couples, the movie will make you think and laugh. Orginially a play, it was written by Risa Mickenberg. It is produced by Reiner, Basche and Michele Ganeless (former Comedy Central president). Marianna Palka, who currently acts in Glow, continues her directing career for this flick.

Interview with Big Brother's Jessie Godderz aka "Mr. PecTacular" on His New Music Video with 98 Degrees Superstar Jeff Timmons; Who Gets the Girl in "The Girl is With Me?' Watch Video Here

There's a whole lot of HOT in this new video by 98 Degrees artist Jeff Timmons and Big Brother's Jessie Godderz AKA Mr. PecTacular. Jessie teams up with super artist Jeff Timmons in the new song "The Girl is With Me." But just who wins out? You'll have to watch. 

The song's got a great beat and a catchy tune. It will keep you watching until the end.

I had the opportunity to ask Jessie, who I met at the Datyime Emmys for his work on Tainted Dreams about his musical debut. Yes, Jessie the popular Big Brother Alum and wrestling superstar who also acts in the Emmy-nominated series Tainted Dreams on Amazon and in a new movie can now add musical artist to his resume. So what does he have to say about his debut role as a musical performer?

Did you do any singing prior to this?

Jessie Godderz: I've sung before in High School Choir and Swing Choir but that was many years ago and I never sang in public since...and never professionally. 

Interview: Inspiring Mom Kathleen Butler Smith on Going from Prosecutor to Business Owner & Podcaster: How Morphmom Can Change Lives for Women

What exactly is a Morphmom? 

That is the question Kathleen Butler Smith, founder of Morphmom, will answer. To give a hint, it's about a re-invention, a new beginning starting later in life. Or, perhaps, a substantial change in career earlier in life. 

Kathleen, a former prosecutor in one of the busiest counties in New Jersey and possibly the US, now runs the company Morphmom. Morphmom is a website, events where women (and men) can learn about how to change their career paths in life, and also  a popular podcast in NYC, interviewing some of the most prominent women in the New York metropolitan area.

NEW FILMMAKER SERIES: Interview with Elsa Levytsky of the Award -Winning Horror Short Goodnight Death Starring Callum Blue as The Grim Reaper

Filmmaker Elsa Levytsky is off to a great start. Her latest short, a horror thriller, Goodnight Death is not even completed yet but has already been named "Semifinalist for Screenplay" at the Hollyshorts Festival in Los Angeles. The film, which stars Callum Blue (Smallville, Royal Pains, The Tudors) and Danielle Kotch (Person of Interest, Made in Jersey) will be making its rounds at film festivals beginning 2019. Simply put, this film is about the Grim Reaper.

Goodnight Death was created and directed by Elsa and written by Elsa, Richard Weems and Mick Lexington. In this interview we find out more about this talented Ukranian-born filmmaker (who happens to be fluent in Japanese) - and how where she lived  - across from a cemetary- just might be her reason for this choice of genre. Regardless, horror is hot and Elsa is on the pulse of this new generation of films.

An Acceptable Loss Movie Screens at the 2018 Chicago International Film Festival: New Political Thriller Stars Jamie Lee Curtis, Tika Sumter and Ben Tavassoli Coming to Theaters 2019

Tika Sumter and Ben Tavsolli with
members of the producing team

An Acceptable Loss, the new film by Director Joe Chappelle (Chicago Fire, Fringe, The Wire) and Colleen Griffin of CorradoMooncoin Productions is screening for the first time at the Chicago International Film Festival 2018. This film, a fictional political thriller, stars Tika Sumter (The Haves and the Havenots, SouthSide with You, Nobody's Fool), Jamie Lee Curtis (Halloween) and Ben Tavassoli (New Blood, No Offence). It is a female-driven plot centered around the fallout of something the United States does in a time of peace.

The movie was shot in various location around Chicago last year, home of the filmmakers.

Also featured in this film are a bevy of talented actors including Jeff Hephner  (Mars, Chicago Med), Alysia Reiner (Orange is the New Black, Equity, Egg) , David Eigenberg (Sex and the City), Alex Weisman (Chicago Med, Chicago Fire), Clarke Peters (The Wire, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri) and  Deanna Dunnagan (The Exorcist)

As The World Turns and General Hospital's Trent Dawson Working on New Short Film Called The F Starring CBS Instinct's Alejandro Hernandez - Video Interview with Trent about his Film and Crowdfunding Campaign

Trent Dawson, best known for his role as on Henry Coleman on As The World Turns and most recently as on General Hospital as Huxley Lynch, is busy at work on his first short film, The F. The F is a drama with some very funny moments about a very vibrant couple battling with uncertainties while waiting for a subway train in New York City.

Trent has announced the actors for this film, which they all actually filmed in a NY City subway on one hot summer night. The lead actors are Alejandro Hernandez (CBS' Instinct) who plays the boyfriend, NY and Chandler Rosenthal who plays the girlfriend. NY actress Lily Davis plays an onlooking subway rider.

Trent had a reading of the play in the Village this past summer, which was attended by a bevy of his soap friends including  Austin Peck, Terri Conn, Anne Sayre, Eric Sheffer-Stevens and Martha Byrne .

Review: The Color Purple at NJ's Paper Mill Playhouse Directed by John Doyle: A Powerful, Heartwarming and Beautiful Musical Adaptation of Alice Walker's Famed Novel

By Beth Abramson Brier, My Thoughts Exactly!

Hell Yes!

Number 1 on your “to do” list this October: Get tickets to see “The Color Purple” at Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn, New Jersey. Even before you buy your Halloween candy and scary Lindsey Graham mask, come see this powerful performance. John Doyle directs this production of Marsha Norman’s screenplay based on the novel by Alice Walker. Set in rural Georgia in the early part of the 20th century, it is perhaps more timely than first intended. Read on.

Actor Interview: Adrianna Hicks and Carrie Compere of Paper Mill Playhouse's The Color Purple Dish About Their Roles in this Iconic Story

 Hell More!- Interview by Beth Abramson Brier

After the stunning opening night performance of “The Color Purple” at Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn, New Jersey, I had a chance to informally chat with Adrianna Hicks (Celie) and Carrie Compere (Sofia) at the after party between photo shoots.  In sharp contrast to Celie, who must spend hours in make-up and wardrobe to look so shabby and downtrodden, Adrianna (in a fabu purple jumpsuit) is beautiful and radiant.  Carrie is just gorgeous and as sparkling as her character Sofia. Both Adrianna and Carrie were authentic and forthcoming and I thank them for taking time to talk to me before they even had a chance to get some dinner. 

What was the first performance you saw that inspired you to pursue theater?

Adrianna:  I saw a high school production of “Guys and Dolls” and I just knew.  We cannot underestimate the power and importance of the arts in school.

Carrie: I never considered a career in theater until I saw “Betsey Brown” at McCarter Theater in Princeton.  It was an all-black cast and I saw myself on stage.

Movie Review: Netlfix's Hold The Dark: Not much Darkness Held Back in this Disturbing Yet Beautiful Film by Jeremy Saulnier

Review by Connor Moriarty


There’s no government, no civilization, no laws, and no common power. Humanity is in a war of “all against all.” So, writes English philosopher Thomas Hobbes in his 1651 book, Leviathan. This particular sentiment refers to Hobbes’ theory on the “state of nature.” A state in which he would famously quote, that human life is “nasty, brutish, and short.”


Apart from being a centerpiece of every university’s freshman seminar class, Hobbes’ philosophy has also found itself the subject of American filmmaker Jeremy Saulnier’s, ever-growing body of work. While the motivations for violence differ between the two films, they both borrow themes from Hobbes’ writing.

Interview: Filmmaker and Now Graphic Novel Author Tina Fine Talks about Building Sand Castles, A New Career and The Unusual Powers of A Superhero Called Off Girl - Coming To New York Comic Con 2018

New Yorker Tina Fine changed her career as her kids were getting older. Going from a 9-5 job as an economist she decided to turned to filmaking, and most recently, she's created a new graphic novel about a FEMALE superhero. Her first short film, Sand Castle, is available online and is a heartwearming, poignant story of a little girl. Contrast that with her new comic book which also features a heroine, and without giving away too much, is about a heroine with a very special power. Read on to find out more about Tina and the birth of Off Girl.

I just watched Sand Castle, and had to wipe away the tears. Was that your first foray into entertainment? 

Tina Fine: I wrote my first script when I was between jobs.  That was way back when I was working as an Economist.  Nothing came of that script ... I got a job and got busy with work and family.   Fast forward to when my kids were 8 and 13 and had more time on my hands and I got an idea for a story and I just started writing.  I took a class at NYU - Screenwriting I  and thus began my honing the craft.  

Movie Review: Searching - A Movie on a Computer Screen is Still A Solid and Entertaining Mystery Thriller

Review by Connor Moriarty

Usually when I review a film, I like to go into the history surrounding it. What its influences are, how it fits into its genre, and the like. With 2018’s Searching, I’m at a bit of a loss. If you haven’t seen any trailers or other marketing materials, the film takes place entirely on a computer screen. Of course, there’s the two Unfriended films, but as far as mainstream movies go, this style of filmmaking is still in its infancy. Where Aneesh Chaganty’s debut differs from its contemporary’s, is in its well-executed narrative and sympathetic protagonist.

John Cho (Star Trek) is a wonderful actor and his talents are utilized well here. From the film’s opening scenes, the audience is shown how damaged his character is and how his wife’s death has fractured his relationship with his daughter. We also see how, in spite of his hardships and flaws, he’s remained a passionate, loving father. One who definitely missed a calling as a detective or FBI investigator.

Jersey City Fashion Week 2018 Kicks Off: Fashion Rebellion, Rebels on the Runway Showcases Tri-State Fashion, Honors Assemblywoman McNight, Fay Southerland, Paula Mornpeller, Joe Budden and Salvation Army of Jersey City

Jersey City's Fashion Week is now a four-day event which starts on Thursday, September 20, 2018 at the Maritime Parc in Jersey City, NJ at 6pm.  The theme this year is Fashion Rebellion, Rebels on the Runway. The event showcases a myriad of designers, boutiques and retailers from throughout Jersey City and the tri-state area. 

This year JCFW continues its committment to honor local influencers. This year the 2018 JCFW People of Influence Award is going to Assemblywoman Angela V. McKnight, Fay D. Southerland, Paula Mornpeller, Joe Budden. They are also honoring the Salvation Army of Jersey City for its excellent work and dedication to the people of Jersey City. Desha Jackson, Fashion Week Coordinator, states,
"We look forward to a great season of business, networking, fashion and giving back!"

Casting: Call for People, Businesses for Upcoming Reality Shows From Explorers to Detectives to Brady Bunch Families

Want to be on TV? Reality TV is still going strong. Here's a listing of some opportunities from Twins Talent Casting in NYC. Visit their website for more options. And stay tuned to BehindtheScenezz.com for more opportunities.

NEW FILMMAKER SERIES: Interview wieth Writer/Director Kyle Dubiel about His Short Film Romance From A Distance: Premeires at Jersey City's Golden Door Festival

Romance From A Distance is young filmmaker Kyle Dubiel's first short accepted to a film festival. This NYU Tisch student who hails from NJ and has been making videos on YouTube since he was a kid, is premiering this short about a tumultuous relationship at the Golden Door International Film Festival in Jersey City, NJ. Read on to find out more about the film and the influences of this young writer/director, who grew up as YouTube established itself, giving a whole generation of budding videographers itself a new outlet and inspiration for creativity.

From the Big Screen to the Big Apple: Sex and the City's Cynthia Nixon Campaigns for Governor of New York in NYC's Meatpacking District

At many points in history there has been a crossover between Hollywood and politics. Now there's a popular female entertainer entering the realm of politics, and it's almost surreal. Cynthia Nixon was well-known as a die-hard New Yorker in the Sex and the City series and movies, an intelligent, driven professional and mother who cared about the city and it's people. Though that was scripted, upon meeting Cynthia at a recent campaign event for her quest for the Democratic Gubernatorial position on the ballot in New York State, one could say that much of what she spoke from her own script could have been coming from the character she played.

In real life, Cynthia Nixon is also a strong, determined woman who wants to make a difference in the world. I kept remembering one episode of Sex and the City when she was fighting to be heard as a women attorney at a board table of mostly men. This was the same person here tonight. VIdeo:

New Season of Marvel's Iron Fist Now Up on Netflix: We Chat with Actor Taylor Purdee About this Superhero/Kung Fu Series

In case you still haven't had your fill of superheroes and villians, Iron Fist is now available on Netflix. We sat down with Taylor Purdee, one of the actors is this new season.

For those who do not know about this show, what is it about?

Well if you haven’t gotten around to Iron Fist yet you’ve definitely come across some corner of it’s larger world at least. It’s a Marvel MCU series, so it links in with Iron Man and Thor and their gang. To me, it’s the story of a massively wealthy kid who, through a series of unfortunate events finds himself immersed in a culture not his own, and that kind of forces him to find a wider perspective of our world. That change allows him to see some of the darker corners and inequities of life he might have missed had his wealthy white American privilege continued.

Music Festival to be Held in Ridgewood NJ Features Local Bands: Thursday Evening Collective, Eugene Thomas and No Big Deal, Amped, Soul'd Out, Declan Power Band and Sherma Andrews Band

Ridgewood, NJ will be host again for Music Fest, a day of food, fun and music at Van Nest Square on Ridgewood Avenue in Ridgewood, NJ on September 9, 2018.

Playing this year at the 5th Annual MusicFest are:  Thursday Evening Collective, Eugene Thomas and No Big Deal, Amped, Soul'd Out, Declan Power Band and Sherma Andrews Band. The bands start at 1:00pm and end at 7:00pm. The bands cover a wide arrange of genres, covers and original songs.

The cost is $5.00 per person to enter. You can pay at the entrance. There will be food available for purchase from local vendors including.  Raymonds, Roots Steakhouse,  Steel Wheel Tavern, Tito's Burritos, Jack's Lobster Rolls, Ben and Jerry's, Broad Street Cafe, Santoni's Pizzeria and Carlo's Bakery.

Interview: Actress Natalia Livingston Produces a Touching Documentary "In Their Shoes" About Men in a Prison Re-entry and Addicion Recovery Program - A Strong Message about Struggles, Society and Hope

A documentary on men in prison
by Natalia Livingston and
Cheryl Buchanan

Natalia Livingston, best known for her roles on the daytime dramas General Hospital, Days of Our Lives and Tainted Dreams  is not just an actor, an acting coach who owns an acting school but also a producer, having on her resume several shorts and shows. Far from the romance and typically light-hearted fare on daytime drama, her new documentary tackles a tough and disturbing subject, men in prision. And it seeks to send a message - showing us the human beings behind the bars. This documentary follows the lives of men in a prison reentry and addiction recovery creative writing program called Writers Without Margins. I had the opportunity to interview Natalia about this important and meaningful project.

Natalia first explained how this film seeks to understand - not glorify - those who have struggled with addiction, turned to crime to feed their addiction, served long prison sentences, and are now reentering society, struggling to recover from their addictions, and working to carve new paths in life. She hopes that this film helps people see the reality of the drug crisis, up close and personal, from the perspective of those who have lived it, thus the title "In Their Shoes." 

Interview: Writer/Director Caytha Jentis' Series The Other F Word Gets Picked up on The Girlfriend Platform: This Sex nd the City-ish Comedy About Life Over 40 stars Judy Gold, Steve Guttenberg

Caytha Jentis is a filmmaker, a writer, director and overall creative person who just never stops thinking, dreaming, doing and forging ahead. Prior to her latest project, The Other F Word, she wrote and directed three feature-length movies, Bad Parents, The One and Then Came Love. She was recently named to Good Housekeeping Inspiring Women to 50.

Her latest venture, or rather adventure, was creating The Other F Word, a series about life after 40. Use your imagination but the "F" can mean anything, and after the show started airing, she realized from viewers that the F can mean forty, fifty, fun, fearless, and more.

NJ Event Review: The Wedding Singer at Long Beach Island's Surflight Theater is a Joy for Any Fan of the Film but the Dancing and Singing Will Amuse Even a First-Timer

I am a huge fan of the Wedding Singer, well, almost any Adam Sandler movie. So when it was coming to the Jersey shore in a play version, at the Surflight Theater on Long Beach Island, I had to go see it.

It was a sunny beach day so the theater was not that packed but it was worth taking a few hours off the beach to see this. First, I did not expect it to be a true musical, you know, the kind with solo performers singing about what's going on and feelings and what not, so when it started I was a bit suprised. I was suprised because the Wedding Singer already had a lot of songs in it without adding more.

New Filmmaker: Bae Short Film Made by Jersey Talent Premieres At Jersey Shore Film Festival 2018

Bae Short Film

Bae is a short film made by Jersey talent. It's premiering at the Jersey Shore Film Festival in Asbury Park. Bae is a fun, lightheared short with a surprising twist. The film is about a woman looking forward to enjoying a quiet night at home with her Bae. It was shot in Keyport, New Jersey. The cast and crew spent two long nights preparing the location and shooting the film. 

The Creative Team Behind It

The creative team for Bae is Feyza Cakici, Anthony Janz, Gina Ziegler, Ryan Cervasio, Anna Tobia Pierotti and Jeff Naviello. Feyza plays a character named Anna who's looking forward to enjoying a quiet night at home, Anthony Janz plays a character named Vinnie and is one of the writers and camera operators. He is also the sound editor on the project. Gina Ziegler is one of the writers, set decorators and camera operators. Anna Tobia Pierotti is one of the set decorators and the script supervisor. Jeff Naviello is one of of the writers and camera operators as well as the cinematographer. Ryan Cervasio is the director, producer, editor and one of the writers.

Movie Review of Puzzle: Kelly Macdonald Fits Perfectly into this Female-Driven Drama about a Women Rearranging the Pieces of Her Life

Review of The Puzzle by Suzanne Ordas Curry

It’s 2018 and all over the news it’s been about the lack of females in certain jobs, especially in entertainment. One of the most curious statistics is the lack of female movie reviewers.

This movie, Puzzle, needs to be reviewed by a female because I think, a female will understand this movie on a deeper level.

The movie starts with a birthday party for the main character, Agnes, played superbly and believably by Kelly Macdonald. We see a birthday cake. Right off the bat, any woman can tell that this woman baked the cake for herself. We see her cleaning up during the party. Already as women we understand this scenario, we get a glimpse of her life.

Then we learn a little more about her. She gets a new Iphone as a gift, not that unusual, she gets a puzzle. We know already these are key elements in the movie, indeed they set the stage for the transformation of this character.

Casting: Casting Call for Extras for NJ-Based Movie A Case of Blue for NY and NJ Scenes

Want to Be in a Movie?

Casting Call for Extras for NJ-Based Movie A Case of Blue

Ridgewood, NJ  - A Case of Blue is seeking extras for two scenes. A Case of Blue, a full-length feature film,  is a drama revolving around a man, his wife and young artist. It is currently being shot in and around North Jersey and New York City. It is written and directed by Ridgewood's Dana H. Glazer. A Case of Blue stars Stephen Schnetzer (Another World, Billions, As The World Turns, Homeland), Annapurna Sriaram (The Blacklist, Billions), Tommy Beardmore (Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Shamless),  Ursula Abbot (Brooklyn Rules, Chapter 27), Tracy Shayne (Law and Order, Broadway) and introducing Natalie Foley (Shades of Blue).

Interview: Meet Model/Actress Messalina Morley - How She Started Her Career and Why She is Now an #InBetweenGirl

I met Messalina Morley onset of The Other F Word. Speaking to her about her career, I noted that her ability to talk about the world of modelling stood out as a brave attribute for a millenial. Read on to see how she got her start in the ferocious and exciting world of modelling.

What did you want to be when you were a little girl?

When I  was really little, I wanted to be a ballet teacher. I was obsessed with ballet! I couldn't think of a better way of spending my life than wearing a pink tutu every day. 

How did your modelling career start?

Indie Rock Band Zoochie Announces Summer Lineup - NYC's Bitter End, Soulsational Festival, Buffalo Ifnfringement Festival, Connolly's NYC and More

Zoochie, the indie rock band out of New Brunswick, NJ announces their summer lineup. The band will be playing throughout the tri-state area.

During the summer, Zoochie will be debuting its new songs, Look Back on It and Oil on Canvas.  Currently, two of their most popular songs, Matador and Three Missed Calls, are available on Itunes, Spotify and other streaming platforms.

The band is comprised of lead singer Libby Kallins, guitarists Shane Curry, Tyler Brick and Ray Young. Matt Ciliberto is on drums.

Review: Escape to Margaritaville on Broadway - Leave Your Port of Indecision, Sail On Over for Last Call and You'll Leave Happy

by Suzanne Ordas Curry

It's Hamilton for Parrotheads.

But even if you don't know what a Parrothead is,  you'll enjoy this escape.

I must start by saying I don't care for musicals. Musical movies, yes, Broadway no. I almost left after 5 minutes of Spongebob the musical, which critics love. I think I am the only one in the world that did not like that one. I did like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. I need a real story and dialogue along with the music. WIthin the first few minutes of Escape to Margaritaville I knew I was in for a treat.

Interview: Actress and 9-11 Widow Iliana Guibert Talks about Life After 9-11 and Her Continuing Pledge to Live Each Day Fully

Iliana Guibert  is an inspiring woman, actress, writer, mother and 9-11 widow who one might says has made lemonade out of lemons. Embarking on a career in acting later in life, she is making her mark in the business with acting and writing, including being in documentaries on 9-11. A New York- based actress, who trained at NYU's Tisch, she has had roles on Blue Bloods, Quantico, Law and Order: SVU and many other series and films. She lives by the motto that "life is too short". Read more about her in this interview and catch her film Twice Upon a Time.

Update: To watch Twice Upon a Time visit: https://www.facebook.com/TwiceUponATime.TheMovie/

As The World Turns Trent Dawson Hosts Fun Fundraiser for His New Short, The F with a Bevy of His Soap Friends.. Martha Byrne, Michael Park, Anne Sayre, Terri Conn, Austin Peck, Colleen Zenk, Eric Sheffer-Stevens & More

"It will be a really fun night" said Trent Dawson, about his fundraiser for his new short film, The F. On June 22nd at the Freeman Studio in NYC at 6:30pm he and a bunch of his good friends from the soap world will get together for a night of nostalgia about As The World Turns (though Trent was recently on GH) and more.There will be a performance, music, a silent auction and a short montage featuring ATWT bloopers.

Trent wrote a play, and now he wants to make it into a short film. Without giving away what the "F" is - you'll have to come Friday to find out- we know the play takes place in a NYC subway station, and in one of those, anything can happen! I talked to Trent about his new play when I saw him at Cady McClain's play in NYC, and he promised the evening would be a good time.

NJ Event: Review of Half Time at Paper Mill Playhouse Starring the Mary Tyler Moore Show's Georgia Engel: Gotta Dance! Gotta See It!

Review by Beth Abramson Brier

They got sizzle. They got style.  But most of all, they got swag!  I’m not talkin’ ‘bout Beyoncé and her bae Jay-Z.  I’m talking Seniors (yeah, like the AARP card carrying  kind) and the east coast premiere of Half Time now at Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn, New Jersey through July 1, 2018.  While a show about geriatric dancers may seem an unlikely theme, “this is not your father’s Oldsmobile®”!

Paint Made Flesh: A New Play by Howard Meyer, Directed by Cady McClain Premieres in New York City

Paint Made Flesh is a new play coming to New York City for a limited engagement June 12th, 14th and 15th at The Cell, 338 West 23rd Street in New York City.

The play is written by Howard Meyer and directed by Cady McClain (Seeing is Believing: Women Direct and Actress most well-known for All My ChiIdren). The play is a production of Evolutionary Media Group, Amanda Quinn Olivar, Eva Paris Cicinyte and the Axial Theater.

Interview: Playwright Howard Meyer Talks His New Play, Paint Made Flesh Premiering in NYC

Howard Meyer has a new play, Paint Made Flesh premiering in New York City in June 2018 at the Cell Theater. It's about Willa, a transplanted NYC painter that now teaches at American University in Washington, DC.  After ending a long and passionate relationship with a rising NYC star performance artist she is now about to marry a seemingly “normal guy” and “settle down.” Keir, her husband-to-be, is a Washington DC politician from a good DC family who is diligently working his way up the political ladder. He loves Willa and thinks he can create a stable life where she will be happy, but also has a huge secret from his college years that Willa is confronted with. I asked Howard about his new play and  what he's up to next.