USC

Arts

Los Angeles musician Matt Miller is singing his way through the wannabes of Hollywood, inspired by the blues and classic rock. [More...]


The Hurt Locker brings home the most gold with six Oscars, including Best Picture.

 

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It's a beautiful thing when magazines and newspapers experiment with the mobile Web.  It's not so beautiful when the result is a boring bundle of advertisements. [More...]


The Vanity Fair Hollywood app proves you can't rely on percentages when it comes to predicting the Oscars. [More...]


From fashion to food, plus predictions and our annual live blog, this is your home base for all things Oscar. [More...]


From treadmills to dancing in courtyards, this Los Angeles band releases another innovative music video.  [More...]


While we wait for Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin to impress us with a song and dance routine, get ready for the big show with these confident predictions of who will be taking home the hardware. [More...]


An inside look at the Annual Governors Ball - the set, the designs and what the stars will be munching on following the Academy Awards.
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Join us this Sunday as Neon Tommy's arts and culture writers live-blog the 82nd Academy Awards from 5 pm to 8 pm (PST), covering everything from the red carpet to the night's biggest winners. [More...]


As Hollywood prepares for Sunday's 82nd Academy Awards, local business and commuters are dealing with the complications of the city's biggest night. [More...]


Austrian actor Christoph Waltz received high praise for his performance in 'Inglorious Basterds' and is a strong contender for best supporting actor in tomorrow's Oscar ceremony.  [More...]


Neon Tommy finds out what moviegoers are saying as to who will bring home the gold this Sunday. [More...]


Are you having a chic Oscar party, but don't have a statue worthy menu yet?  Here are few festive ideas for your (motion) picture perfect gathering.


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A temporary art exhibition housed in a reclaimed superstore houses hundreds of works by artists demanding equal rights for all Americans.

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Hollywood's biggest party of the year is just around the corner, so it's time to break out the Best Actress Bubbly and Superstar Crostinis.
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A month after Valentine's Day, Paige S. Morrow reflects on what the holiday really means.

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The Oscars are the biggest fashion catwalk of the year. In light of this, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences have launched their very own version of 'Project Runway' meets 'American Idol'.


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The tense thriller balances its moody subject matter and color palette with brilliant pacing, a jittery but playful score, and wonderful performances by just about everyone in the cast. [More...]


The movie is visually stunning, but lacking in everything else. [More...]


Actors Martin Sheen, Brian Geraghty and Frances Conroy star in the revival of Frank D. Gilroy's family drama. 

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Will Knox's debut LP shows poise and mature songwriting with a fresh take on folk music. [More...]


The L.A. restaurant specializes in small plates which are artfully prepared and delicious but too small for the price. Same goes for the impressive beer menu. [More...]


Los Angeles rockers Graydon promise to deliver a high-energy, bluesy set of indie tunes in a series of Saturday shows in Hollywood. [More...]


A Q&A with actress Deanne Bray, who portrays Emma Coolidge on Heroes.

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USC alum Ross Golan dishes about his creative process, why indie and pop music make each other better, and about his band's upcoming performance in Echo Park.
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Making these sweet, tangy chicken wings at home is an easy way to get your wing fix without having to worry about wearing sauce all over your face in public. [More...]


She's a blond Southern Belle; he's a series regular on HBO series 'Big Love.' Together they make bittersweet songs inspired by music legends from another era. [More...]


If you've immersed yourself in sci-fi drama over the last few decades, you've probably seriously wondered what we're going to do when the robots take over. Matthew Benjamin and Logan Brown's new play "Wirehead," has arrived at this moment. 


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They may look a little funny, but heirloom tomatoes are a delicious treat that can be the base of a whole meal, like this recipe for a simple pasta and salad. [More...]


The latest vampire flick is guilty of trying to be too many things at once: kitschy, deep, funny, and scary. Problem is, the director doesn't pull off any of these approaches successfully.
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Local reggae, ska and Latin bands show their support for Haiti earthquake victims at a benefit concert on the anniversary of Bob Marley's birthday.  [More...]


Nicholas Sparks' most recent book-turned-movie doesn't transmit as well on screen as some of his other successful ventures. While the film tugs on our heartstrings in some parts, the ending leaves the audience a bit confused. [More...]


The star-studded romcom reveals the hype and the common misconceptions about love of the nation's most buzzed about holiday.
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Sure, he may look like Belle's ultimate celebrity crush. But is that enough to make up for a mediocre personality? [More...]


'Lost' isn't a guilty pleasure. It's a bad habit. I can't stop watching. I've seen every single episode. I keep telling myself I'm gonna stop. But every time another episode lands in my DVR, I think, just one more. Just one more. I can quit any time.
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"Kings of the Dance" features two casts exclusively made up of eight of today's top male dancers, a rarity in a world where men typically take a backseat to prima ballerinas.  
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Next time you have to bring something to a friend's party, impress everyone with these juicy, pork wontons. They're delicious, easy, and surprisingly cheap. [More...]


With the help of a wonderful supporting cast and a soundtrack that runs through the movie like a heartbeat, Bridges is able to suffuse a fairly straightforward story with power, passion, and subtlety that bring it to a higher level than the writing alone merits. [More...]


Performing a blend of traditional Chinese and contemporary dance, China's premier dance company brings a timeless tale of love to L.A. for Valentine's weekend.

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LISTEN: Our Arts and Culture editors predict the 2010 Oscar winners.  [More...]


Playing drums on found objects lets participants in a free workshop put on by Hands Dirty with the Arts feel like kids again. [More...]


Take a look as we enter a beginner's salsa dancing class.  It may be a bit embarrassing, but it's all in good fun. [More...]


Author and USC journalism professor Tim Page spoke about how Asperger's Syndrome has shaped his life, and how he captured that struggle in his new book "Parallel Play." [More...]


Costumed zombies and zombie lovers do the monster mash to the Nucleus Gallery's new Valentine's Day exhibit in Alhambra.
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The precision with which writer-director Eli Craig simultaneously tackles two genres, horror and comedy, will have you covering your eyes one minute and crying with laughter the next.

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It's hard to enjoy the ambiance at a visually stunning restaurant when you're busy trying to find a waiter to take your order. [More...]


One comedian still laughs in this economy. He has set his sights on other things, making it big in the City of Angels.

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The Donkeys rock Echo Park with untraditional instruments and sounds, performing anticipated material from their upcoming release. 

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'Avatar' and 'The Hurt Locker' tied for the most nominations with a total of nine, including noms for Best Picture and Director.

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Celebs attending the Grammy's are encouraged to ditch those stuffy tuxedos and fancy gowns for a little fashion fun on the red carpet. Some made good use of their creative freedom this year, while others pushed the envelope a bit too far.

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Feeling the urge to indulge a taco craving without having to track down one of L.A.'s roving taco trucks? Try one of these restaurants and indulge in cheaper fare on their taco nights. And don't forget the margarita. [More...]


Lots of fresh vegetables and a sprinkling of cheese make this recipe healthy but full of delicious flavors. [More...]


Join us Sunday night as our arts and culture writers cover the 52nd annual music awards show, which includes a 3D tribute to the King of Pop. [More...]


Patti Smith read excerpts from her new book and took fans through a whirlwind tour of her rocker life at a West Hollywood bookstore Friday night.

 

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TheSpyAnts' production of Charles Mee's 'bobrauschenbergamerica' embraces the colorful, cultural mash-up that is America.  


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Four street artists who got their start as young teens tagging buildings and dumpsters painted live at the Los Angeles Art Show this year as part of a project titled Vox Humana.

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First-season Joffrey ballerina Yumelia Garcia brings the Royal Ballet's traditional 1948 choreography to the contemporary stage in her role as Cinderella.

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Canned green chile sauce and a store bought roast chicken cut down the preparation time but not the flavor on this cheesy, gooey casserole. [More...]


Culture Clash turned a mash-up of cultures and identities into something fun, entertaining and at times thought provoking in "Palestine, New Mexico."  


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Predictability is pretty much a given in most romantic comedies, and 'Leap Year' is no different. This one is definitely a renter, one to catch on TV, or at the very best, a matinee. [More...]


As Awards Season gets underway, hits and misses on the red carpet are making just as big a splash as the nominees themselves. [More...]


Are big houses, fancy cars, and a life of ease enough to keep Belle interested in a prospective suitor? [More...]


The veteran Austin band releases seventh album. [More...]


Independent filmmaker Lou Pepe doesn't ascend with his version of Tennesee WIlliams' "Orpheus Descending."




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Chicken pot pie is possibly the best food to eat on a rainy night, and this recipe is healthier than what your mom used to make.  [More...]


Beginning with the red carpet entrances at 4 p.m. PST, our television and movie writers will have the evening's festivities covered. [More...]


The GGs are one of the few times A- and B-list TV/film stars are seen rubbing shoulders in broad daylight. Featuring an eclectic list of presenters (Hello, Mickey Rourke!) and hosted by Ricky Gervais, Sunday's show is a drinking game waiting to happen.
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Breadline Productions' first foray into the L.A. theater scene is a grab bag of heinous crimes. Reach your hand in, and you might get...incest! Abuse! Infidelity! Invasion of privacy! Homicide! Suicide! Step right up, everyone walks away with a prize.

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The critically acclaimed film artfully uses the airport to capture both the tenacity and the fragility of human connections. The result is a meaningful (if at times depressing) movie that leaves a lasting impression.


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Vampire Weekend's new album comes out next week and the first review is in. [More...]


Streep's latest romantic comedy has all the makings of a typical silver screen love triangle -- except this time the players have droopy eyelids, urinary incontinence, and self-help CDs jamming on the radio.
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Relationships can be hard, but knowing how to move past them can lead to better ones. [More...]


The Russian Circles, Young Widows, and Helms Alee showed off their impressive electronic pop skills at the Echoplex recently, though the atmosphere left something to be desired. [More...]


She may be gone, but Derbyshire's music -- a quilt of spacey, comic orchestration and radical reproductions of old, familiar sounds --  lives on through its lasting influence on other artists.
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The joint acquisition of a symbol of the Arts and Crafts movement signifies how museums are collaborating to afford pricey pieces that will enhance their collections. [More...]


Steven Loza's 1993 book chronicles 300 years of Chicano music history in Los Angeles, and provides an interesting perspective on the many influences that have contributed to the blend of styles that have come and gone through the years. [More...]


'Avatar' is 'The Matrix' meets 'Dances With Wolves.' But for some reason, I liked it. [More...]


From The Sopranos to Modest Mouse, a look back at some of the decade's greatest music, films, books and more. [More...]


Richard MacDonald's well-muscled ballerina and Cirque du Soleil-inspired sculptures cause viewers to wonder if blood, not copper wire, is actually pulsing beneath the modeling clay. 



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Marcelo Cesena is ready to take his place beside Carmen Miranda as the next big musical import from Brazil. [More...]


If never ending Christmas carols have you swearing off music this year, Newworldson's groovy, gospel Christian rock is here to help. [More...]


When the 'Truffle Brothers' moved to L.A. from Italy seven years ago, they brought the family business with them and now supply the city's top restaurants with the expensive delicacy. The going rate? Around $2,000 per truffle. [More...]


General Motors collaborates with USG to feed students during the study week. [More...]


LISTEN: The latest news and commentary about contemporary arts and culture in Los Angeles and beyond. [More...]


Emerging artists team with DJs to create infinite art for Create: Fixate's eight year anniversary celebration. [More...]


When it comes to the perfect pair of shoes, sometimes it's best to let fate decide. [More...]


Heavy metal underdogs Anvil win big and the pursuit of dreams take center stage at this year's International Documentary Association Awards.
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Paprika, cayenne pepper and sweet relish add a twist to this summer classic, paired with a couscous that will complete your next picnicking adventure. [More...]


Everyone loves a taco bar, but this recipe will give you all the flavors of your favorite Mexican dish in a healthier way. [More...]


A bromance with a moral message?  Gabe McKinley's world-premiere play "Extinction" examines the darkness that drives the debauchery.    


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LISTEN: Two foodies getting together to talk about eating, cooking and making your tummy growl and your mouth water. [More...]


For more than 80 years, entertainers and crowds have celebrated the holidays with the Hollywood Christmas Parade.
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Lessons in the craft of traditional Japanese cloth bundling add creative inspiration to the Santa Monica Museum of Art's food drive. [More...]


Yoko Ono's new album 'Between My Head and the Sky,' is a challenging listen, but isn't all that different from her other work. [More...]


Thanks to a new WiFi body scale, the ability to overshare has been taken to a whole new level. [More...]


Belle tries out some classic Los Angeles activities, but will she get a date out of her adventures? [More...]


Street edge and self-expression rule with customized sneaks that give fans the chance to find their own flair. 
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Twinkling lights and sparkling decorations take center stage as Los Angeles prepares for the holidays. [More...]


The newly founded Underground Tournament League brings together gamers, DJs and artists with a series of 'gaming culture events' that combine video games, music, art and food. [More...]


The highly anticipated film marks the studio's return to hand-drawn animation and serves as a bold reminder to Hollywood that the medium is not always the message--a good story is what matters most.  [More...]


LISTEN: The latest news and commentary on contemporary arts and culture in Los Angeles and beyond. [More...]


If opera neophytes had taken a chance either on USC's production of Benjamin Britten's "Albert Herring" or Handel's "Tamerlano," presented by L.A. Opera this past weekend, nearly all would've left smiling.  [More...]


This recipe combines the best parts of several dessert favorites to make one delicious pie. [More...]


The latest news and commentary on contemporary arts and culture in Los Angeles and beyond. [More...]


Belle has found the dating equivalent of the Holy Grail: the man who is ready to get married and start a family. The only question is, is that what she really wants? [More...]


Photographers Walter Iooss and Neil Leifer capture some of the most iconic moments in sports with their graceful photography.  [More...]


Big or small, funny or shocking, Frank Warren wants to know your secrets. [More...]


The latest trend: fashion on a budget.  The Olsen twins and Jimmy Choo are just a couple of the designers that are launching inexpensive clothing lines. 


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More than 1,000 guests celebrated MOCA's 30th anniversary featuring contemporary artwork, high fashion and a performance "you will never see again" by Lady Gaga and the Bolshoi Ballet. [More...]


Ever notice how some potentially attractive people just end up less attractive? It may just be they have a bad resting face.  [More...]


Red velvet cupcakes are all the rage right now. Try this recipe for moist, delicious treats that will impress all your friends. [More...]


Every frame of the magical film is filled with detail, from a cigarette burning to smoke blowing in the wind to modern jokes here and there that wouldn't otherwise be found in 1970 book.
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After a challenging year, Los Angeles' famed contemporary art institution celebrates 30 years with an unprecedented unveiling of its permanent collection. [More...]


Lomo saltado takes the best qualities of French fries and makes them even better by adding steak and vegetables. [More...]


Belle gives in and tries finding a guy online, but things don't go as planned. [More...]


TV on the Radio's Kyp Malone's solo debut is similar to his work with his band.  But unlike his band's work, this album is inconsistent.
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Smalls Jazz Club, located in the West Village in New York City, is outfitted with mirrors that typically showcase the musicians' hands, but one recent Sunday afternoon, it was all about the feet.  [More...]


It's been three weeks since the Los Angeles Philharmonic's new music director Gustavo Dudamel last waved his enchanted baton at Walt Disney Concert Hall. This past weekend, he had a chance to put his stamp on one of the most towering works in the repertoire, Verdi's Requiem

 
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What's hot and what's not: helpful tips on finding your new favorite pair of jeans at an affordable price. [More...]


Residents of East L.A. celebrate "Day of the Dead" and resist commercialization of their historical celebration honoring death and Latino culture.

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Don't be fooled by fancy ingredients. The best guacamoles are the ones that focus on the main ingredient: avocado. [More...]


With Pakistan having just launched its first-ever fashion week, Neon Tommy takes a look at fashion weeks around the world. [More...]


Tough advice from the woman at the helm of Vogue's junior counterpart on how to break into the fashion biz. [More...]


Characters in 'Precious' have such tremendous depth and veracity, that for every devil lurking in the shadows of a character's mind, there's a motivation--a hurt, a jealousy, a fear, a love, an exhaustion--that lends justification and reality to such inhumane levels of cruelty. [More...]


The Indian dish tadka dal is a lentil-based, spicy masterpiece. But be careful, only the bravest should order anything above medium spicy. [More...]


There is nothing wrong with being a virgin. But please, don't let your desperation to shed the v-card show on the very first date!

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From dresses to leggings and accessories, sequins are the hottest and most playful trend of the season. [More...]


The footwear that makes being a badass look so damn good: How the right boots can help give the right attitude. [More...]


Actor's Gang member Donna Jo Thorndale's spoof of the Food Network's most famous Southern belle, Paula Deen, is doggone funny.  Deterring from that to rants about healthcare, the war, and prison reform, however, proves a recipe for disaster.
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Finding "the one" is also about knowing what you want.  [More...]


Two kinds of homemade frosting make this dark chocolate cupcake extra special. Who needs some fancy cupcake shop when you can impress all your friends by making this at home? [More...]


The beats, melodies, words and music of MJ's songs came from his soul, letting him move and sing in ways that are often imitated, but never duplicated. [More...]


Why not celebrate Dia de los Muertos this weekend by trying a traditional Mexican dish smothered in a delicious, smoky mole sauce.

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Vampires and Michael Jackson impersonators may be roaming the streets this Halloween, but many people are turning to thrift shops instead of big costume stores to save a few dollars. [More...]


WATCH AND LISTEN: Beyond the hills of Los Angeles, ghost stories and half-dead monsters frighten thrillseekers who dare to come to The Los Angeles Haunted Hayride this Halloween. [More...]


The 10 horror flicks that have beaten the odds by not being cheesy, mindless drivel. [More...]


WATCH: Even during a recession, L.A. gets into the spirit of the season with pumpkins, ponies and petting zoos. [More...]


Liberace's stuffed cat and Jayne Mansfield's stuffed Chihuahua are some of the least disturbing things you'll see at The Museum of Death in Hollywood.  [More...]


Panpipes is the oldest occult store in the U.S. and the place to go in Hollywood for potions, herbs and all things magickal. [More...]


These 10 horror flicks aren't scary enough to watch under the covers. [More...]


Will there finally be a second date for Belle's newest beau?  [More...]


Gossip brought their brand of indie rock at their L.A. show. [More...]


‪LA Stereo.TV's launch party, a web series with the goods on L.A.'s underground hip-hop scene, trained its spotlight on promising new acts Sirah, Intuition, and VerBS.‬   
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Bringing your own wine when eating out can save you a lot cash. Here are three of L.A.'s best BYOB spots. [More...]


If you've ever had the desire to see Courtney Love (plus Kurt Cobain, the remains of a revolution, Celine Dion, and a bit of the Third Reich, all in one night), then head on over to God Save Gertrude. [More...]


Time to ditch the delivery guy. This pizza's fresh ingredients will have you fulfilling your pizza cravings without all the grease. [More...]


Transport yourself instantly to Italy by indulging in one of the most delicious nut-based foods on the planet: pesto. [More...]


Touring on lead singer Charlie Fink's break-up album and feature-length music video (also about said break-up), these twee pop-sters show they've moved on -- to angsty indie rock. [More...]


Internationally acclaimed conductor John Williams performed songs inspired by the flavor of Los Angeles at Disney Hall. [More...]


Is the responsibility of sleeping with a virgin just too much for some people? [More...]


Eric Bricker's documentary is a fascinating look at the world of modernist architecture in Southern California, told through the eyes of photographer Julius Shulman. [More...]


Fall marks the beginning of Los Angeles' homage to the fashion industry.  From downtown to Beverly Hills, local designers debut their upcoming looks for spring. [More...]


Oliver Tolentino uses eco-friendly fabrics and elegant detailing to create his stunning spring looks inspired by his tropical homeland.

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The city's favorite comeback couturier, Louis Verdad, charmed the LA Fashion Week crowds at the Geffen Contemporary at MOCA with a fun, flirtatious take on classic femme figures of strength.
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Girls debut 'Album' on Matador Records, which shows the band's evolution since its beginnings. [More...]


If you want to ask me out, don't I at least deserve an actual phone call? [More...]


  The signifiers are slight, but London Girl's keen eye observes autumn's arrival in L.A.   [More...]


Grammy award winning classical artists eighth blackbird and Gloria Cheng performed recitals this past week. [More...]


Don't get scared off by the unusual ingredients. This fried rice is simple to make and so delicious. [More...]


Try one of these L.A. spots visited on MTV's series 'The Hills.' Just don't forget your over-sized sunglasses.  [More...]


From rose pastel to vanilla beige, subtle shades for your fingertips chase away the fall doldrums. [More...]


Make a splash with rubber wellies when wet weather rolls into town. [More...]


After nearly 40 years, Pilobolus is one of the most relevant dance companies today. The dancers' contortionist and acrobatic abilities, which allow them to morph their bodies into practically any shape, have garnered them television commercial work and stints at the Academy Awards and the Olympics. 


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The critically-adored adaptation is supposed to be an exploration of the feelings kids have--they overreact and then feel embarrassed and ashamed. It's a fairly unexploited theme, as far as movie themes go, but it's not quite enough to hang an entire feature on. [More...]


You don't have to travel to France for a delicious crêpe. In fact, the obsession can be fulfilled at an L.A. Farmer's Market or even a school bake sale, which is how our author discovered the delicate pastry. [More...]


Choreographer Twyla Tharp gives a lesson on exercising the creative mind, during a time when art, and creativity, have been mostly commodified.
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With killer appetizers and luscious desserts, Vinoteque shows off its foodie delights during dineL.A.'s restaurant week. [More...]


If a character in a fictional TV show or film gets hit, they usually hit back.  If a girl on 'America's Next Top Model' gets hit, she talks about it. [More...]


The three piece band played a crowd-pleasing gig at HM157 Friday night.
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Sometimes you can't help but get stuck (literally) in your favorite fall trend. [More...]


Author Mark Kleiman discusses everything from prison sentences and blogging to why he doesn't like most pictures of himself over a helping of Cha Sui Bao in Los Angeles. [More...]


Surfers and celebrities turned out to honor 25 years of activism by the Surfrider Foundation.  The night featured performances by Perry Farrell and Dave Navarro and depictions of the world's 25 most legendary waves created by today's most renowned contemporary artists.  [More...]


Gustavo Dudamel, Los Angeles Philharmonic's new music director, has cast a spell over the city with the particular magic he wields with his baton.   [More...]


Filled with hearty veggies and topped with Swiss cheese, this healthy and delicious sandwich will have you breaking out the Foreman Grill. [More...]


From little lady to ladylike chic, tweed and pearls have escaped our mother's closets and are making their way down the most fashionable runways. [More...]


The men might just be as sweet as the peaches from this state...too sweet. [More...]


Tiffany's may be overrated, but still picking the right ring is not. [More...]


Los Angeles gets ready for Halloween with a month of camp, classics, and gorefests at its best theaters. [More...]


Last Saturday, a star-studded benefit honored the legendary guitarist and raised money for cancer research. [More...]


If you want a break from being a carnivore, try a light, delicious Japanese seaweed salad instead. [More...]


'Fame' ends up feeling more like a fast-paced music video, jumping from number to number without much dialogue or character development to hold the showstoppers together.  [More...]


The documentary does its best to distinguish the paper's successes from the Chandler family discord, using examples of its growth to paint a wistful picture of an era when news was king. [More...]


Over the years the show has offended just about everyone and tackled some of the biggest issues in society. From Scientology to the Pope, from the S-word to the N-word, from 9/11 to President Obama, no one is safe from Trey Parker and Matt Stone's cartoon creation. [More...]


A hip-hop history lesson is now in session: In the beginning, there was Gil Scott-Heron.  

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LISTEN:Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa says he thinks Fashion Week L.A. can have a positive impact on the local economy. Some designers are not so sure. [More...]


'A Serious Man' manages to be the most thought-provoking film of the year and an immensely entertaining one. The minor characters are the Coens' funniest since 'The Big Lebowski.' To call it a black comedy would be imprecise. It's more like a comedy of moral anguish. [More...]


San Francisco Symphony maestro Michael Tilson Thomas is one of USC's Thornton School of Music's most illustrious alumni, but who knew he was such the raconteur?







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Adding one timbre after another to their native Afro-beat proto-blues, Amadou & Mariam have become globally renowned. 


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Los Angeles is full of places serving the cute little confections. Here's the list of our favorites. [More...]


New Los Angeles Philharmonic music director Gustavo Dudamel delivered in a big way at his first performance. [More...]


Coming in under $20, this thrifty recipe will feed four people in style. And baking the chicken keeps the calories down, too. [More...]


Although I enjoyed seeing the movie, and give it credit for sticking with the book for the most part, I felt a bit disappointed walking out of the movie theater. I wish that the movie had gotten into more of the side characters that shaped the relationship of Henry and Clare. I also wish that I could have seen Henry do more of his time travels. [More...]


After flooding the TV screen with scenes of great emotion last week, 'Grey's Anatomy' went back to its more traditional formula of trauma drama with a dash of comedy and a not so subtle hint of a moral lesson.  [More...]


Sharp adolescent ache transcends the screen and evokes an intimacy with viewers in this unglamorous 2008 Swedish vampire film. [More...]


HBO's 'Bored to Death' is much more than a disdainful cliche, and you'll find yourself laughing at all the quirky and self-deprecating humor it has to offer.  [More...]


In the NOH8 campaign photos, willing subjects are photographed in white shirts which creator Adam Bouska said, 'is just a way of keeping it all simple. It gives you a chance to look at the person in the eyes while having NOH8 written on their face.' [More...]


Author K.C. Cole discusses her new book, 'Something Incredibly Wonderful Happens,' about one of the collaborators on the Manhattan Project, Frank Oppenheimer, and why she became interested in science. [More...]


Some past crushes never go away, while others make us realize that we're better off without them.  [More...]


Summer romance and a new pair of heels - sometimes it's the shoes that make the date... [More...]


L.A. may not be the birthplace of pastrami, but the delis here still know how to make a great sandwich. Just don't forget to ask for the rye. [More...]


Much of 'The Hills' remains the same. Heidi and Spencer, despite their holy matrimony, continue to bicker hilariously, a blonde and vapid 'Odd Couple.' Justin Bobby is still the massive douche he always was. And Audrina Partridge continues to take the word fickle to exciting new highs. But Kristin sweeps into town like a hurricane. [More...]


With last week's season premiere establishing storylines for every main character, 'Heroes' slowed down the pace a bit this week and focused on half of the main cast.  [More...]


Ken doll is back, but can he hold to Belle's standards?  [More...]


Newcomer Anna Rose sings sweetly over her guitar, occasionally sprinkling some piano into the mix. Although her talent shines, it might not be enough to take on larger-than-life personalities like Lily Allen or Duffy.
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Puppets, masks, dance and drama collide in a bizarre interpretation of Nikolai Gogol's three greatest short stories. [More...]


Vanilla lovers, this recipe is for you! Cupcakes are all the rage these days, so try your hand at these light, delicious confections and impress all your friends. Beginners welcome. [More...]


She may have been relocated to L.A., but the inner London bitch in our girl is still alive and kicking. [More...]


Fox's hosting debut wasn't a groundbreaking Timberlake 'SNL,' but she held her own as the show merely used her as 'hot girl' in just about every skit.  All in all, she was adequate for what she was given.  [More...]


It's the end of the runway for fashion coverage in legacy media but Emili Vesilind and her partners are driven to make it work with their new online venture, Style Section L.A.  [More...]


Richard Rayner's 'A Bright and Guilty Place' spotlights some of the city's guiltiest years: the 1920s. While readers who expect the book to be full of dramatic twists should look elsewhere, history buffs will greatly appreciate Rayner's thorough research. [More...]


"Wipeout" begins as a lighthearted account of people falling down evolves into a harsh comparison of tough people vs. wimps. [More...]


Seeing Jim have a secret meeting with anyone would have driven Michael crazy, but knowing Jim was speaking with David Wallace made the situation worse. When Pam wouldn't say a word about the meeting (she was preoccupied with trying to dissuade her co-workers from attending her wedding) and his idea to hide in a make-shift cheese cart failed, Michael's mind came to only one conclusion: Jim was after his job. [More...]


Since George's demise was not a surprise at all to the viewers, writer Krista Vernoff quickly had George dead and buried. While that may seem kind of harsh to George's memory, the premiere was not about his death. Instead, the focus was on how the other characters would deal with the grief of losing their friend.  [More...]


To celebrate Smithsonian Museum Day on Saturday, September 26, museums and cultural institutions nationwide will offer free admission to patrons.  [More...]


Aasif Mandvi, who has played a fictional news correspondent on Jon Stewart's Daily Show for three years, relishes awkward moments because they're the building blocks for a good comedy piece, he explained. [More...]


Acclaimed European-based choreographers stage L.A. premiere of the gritty and elegant "Maybe Forever" at REDCAT.   

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Willie Ames has some potential, but it isn't on display on his EP. [More...]


Jewelry designers go big this season with chunky pieces ranging from punk to gothic, showing anything goes. [More...]


Transitioning from flats and sneakers to high heels is a right of passage for every girl.  How the right pair of heels can make magic happen. [More...]


Ondi Timoner turns 10 years and 5,000 hours of footage into 'We Live In Public,' a documentary chronicling the experiments and escapades of Josh Harris, 'the greatest Internet Pioneer you've never heard of.' [More...]


Ordering a plate of pad kee mao may have you crying, but not necessarily for joy. [More...]


The Heroes premiere wasn't perfect, but it was a good start for the season. Let's just hope the coming weeks see the show continue to build upon what was started Monday night instead of tearing it down.   [More...]


Steven Soderbergh makes what would otherwise be an unwatchably dull film about mid-90s white-collar crime into a riveting dark comedy. [More...]


A historical trip through downtown Los Angeles for art lovers and history buffs highlights the city's art enclaves and aged buildings and shows there's more to the concrete jungle than meets the eye.
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In Sex, Drugs, and Cocoa Puffs, Klosterman uses a rambling, essay-style format to find  deeper connections in seemingly mundane aspects of modern life. [More...]


Despite what the commercials would like you to think, 'Jennifer's Body' is not a typical horror film. Sure, there's tons of gore and titillating girl-on-girl action--perfect for teenage boys--but at its heart, the film is about female friendship. [More...]


30 Rock, NBC's comedy series about a variety show, swept the 61st Annual Primetime Emmy Awards Sunday night at the Los Angeles Nokia Theater. The show was nominated for 22 awards, staking its claim as the most nominated series in one category. [More...]


"August: Osage County" takes on the dysfunctional Weston family and sweeping themes, including drug addiction, incest, abuse and infidelity. And you thought your family gatherings were rough. [More...]


An 80s fad resurfaces: From flats to bomber jackets, metallic dazzles this fall...and well into spring.
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While Heroes: Redemption may refer to a personal quest for its main characters, the real redemption story lies between the show and its fans. [More...]


Summer may officially be over, but don't put your grill away yet. This recipe is perfect for the late-evening heat L.A.'s been having lately. [More...]


Live blog with NT on TV's most glamorous night: The 61st annual Emmy Awards, hosted by singer, dancer, actor and the legen-waitforit-dary Neil Patrick Harris. [More...]


L.A. is home to the objects of London Girl's obsession. So where are they? [More...]


"Capitalism: A Love Story" deals with the problems that exist in the American economic system, including the current financial crisis and the ties between Wall Street and the government. In typical Moore fashion, the film is peppered with his own autobiographical moments. [More...]


Michael Moore's latest film takes on the very idea of a capitalist economy with a scattershot approach, little structure and all the attitude you've come to expect from him. [More...]


For those whose only brush with Mexican "culture" involved a shameful night at Señor Frog's, this weekend's Viva Mexico Festival L.A. might come as a shock.   [More...]


Los Angeles singer/songwriter Featherbeard brings his show to Abuelitas in Topanga Saturday. [More...]


They may not be the latest Louboutins, but the trusty flip-flop can be one of the most cherished shoes in a California girl's closet. [More...]



Phonte's silky croon and Nicolay's cool-breeze beats set a tone as mellow and leisurely as a Southern summer.  
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Sun and sand make their mark on a recent transplant from the U.K., but life in the Golden State is not without setbacks.
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A new spin on a classical tragedy insists that even in the most inhospitable of fields, love dares not only grow, but flourish. 
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The star, who often played tough-guy action heroes, but was most fondly known for his roles in Dirty Dancing and Ghost, had been fighting pancreatic cancer since 2008. [More...]


Kanye West stunned many by sabotaging Taylor Swift's acceptance speech at the VMAs, but his behavior shouldn't have been a surprise to any of us. He's done it before.
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From Los Angeles to Hong Kong, barbequed pork remains a tasty favorite - a spiced soy-honey marinade lends this Cantonese dish its lustrous color and tangy kick.
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Cherry tomatoes, spices and kalamata olives perk up a light fall dinner that's short on calories but not on flavor.
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The new game gives Beatles fans a chance to live out some of the most famous moments from the band's career. [More...]


Newcomer Mikey Wax brings a refreshing, new heavy mellow sound to the music scene.
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The show's vibrant performances by the dancers and musicians are showcased well by the intimate stage set up at the Fountain Theatre. [More...]


From "Easy Rider" to Sid and Nancy, the biker look has never lost its appeal.  Fall designers gear up for this season's hottest trend which has made a comeback once again. [More...]


Mikhail Baryshnikov stopped in Santa Monica to sign copies of his new book, "Merce My Way." The few who came were treated to a rare meeting with one of the best dancers alive.  [More...]


From nature hikes to late-night concoctions, Los Feliz offers some of the finest round-the-clock revelry to Los Angelenos [More...]


Rapper/Actor Mos Def took his show to the Hollywood Palladium.  Neon Tommy's Rebecca Haithcoat reviews the gig. [More...]


Fashionistas and economists alike will be awed by the behind-the-scenes look at the clothing and creativity that goes into one issue of Vogue. [More...]


This turkey burger, with a side salad and sweet potato fries, is a healthy treat that just happens to taste like a meal from a fast food restaurant. In fact, it's even better. [More...]


Fed up with L.A. boutique prices, a USC grad student hits the markets of China to nix her shoe envy. [More...]


The New Jersey rockers' debut record pays homage to influences such as classic rock and British indie punk. [More...]


Director Mike Judge's latest film tackles the worst of American society, from racism to self-important musicians to ambulance-chasing lawyers. It's not a perfect comedy, but there's plenty to chuckle at. [More...]


The Black Lips wrapped up their eight month tour as headliners for the FYF Fest on Saturday. Before taking a well-deserved vacation, the self-proclaimed flower punk group sat down with Holly Butcher to talk music, alcohol and naughty stage antics.


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Some of SoCal's rising stars played the sixth annual FYF Fest this past Saturday. The outdoor event allowed hipsters of all make and model to wander between three stages of punk, metal and indie rock music. Check photos from the scene here. [More...]


A look at life through the shoes that get a grad student on the go.
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Over 100,000 fans descended upon San Francisco's Golden Gate Park to see Pearl Jam, Jason Mraz, the Black Eyed Peas and others perform last weekend. [More...]


The Roots' Amir '?uestlove' Thompson played a DJ set Saturday at The Church. Neon Tommy's Rebecca Haithcoat was there to review the event. [More...]


In a genre where men are typically flag-waving ruffians singing about cold beers and hot nights, one man is becoming a refreshing alternative. Country crooner Cooper Boone separates himself from his colleagues on a self-titled debut with songs that focus on people and story-telling. [More...]


The success of the new movie "Julie and Julia," has a lot to do with people's seemingly unending love for Julia Child. She may have her imitators, but there will be only ever be one Julia. [More...]


Victor Vener, the California Philharmonic's founding conductor, uses his unique concert programming to draw crowds. In today's economy, that challenge is even greater. [More...]


The much-anticipated Emmy nods were announced on Thursday with its newly added seven slots for the best show categories. This allowed for a few surprises, but the nods were mostly business as usual. [More...]


The movie is not your typical boy-meets-girl romcom. It's not a traditional love story; in fact, it's not a love story, as the film itself warns. It's more like a 500-day diary of a relationship gone awry. [More...]


The movie is a quirky, reality-meets-fantasy film about the business of extracting souls from the body. And it's none other than Paul Giamatti playing himself who humorously and tragically undertakes the uncharted task of becoming soulless.   [More...]


More than 130,000 people flocked to the Coliseum over the weekend to participate in one of the biggest dance festivals in America. The Electric Daisy Carnival, kicked off Friday night with acts like ATB and Paul Oakenfold electrifying the audience.


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'The Stoning of Soraya M,' based on Freidoune Sahebjam's international bestseller, tells the true story of the tragic consequences of women's rights under the Islamic regime. The horrific stoning grabs viewers' attention and doesn't let go. [More...]


During the show's premiere, Edie Falco shocks and amazes viewers in baby blue scrubs as Jackie Peyton, a New York City hospital emergency room nurse. Jackie speaks her mind and butts heads as she works her way through her hospital ER. [More...]


O'Brien replaced former host Jay Leno last week. See how he did! [More...]


Todd Phillips has outdone himself yet again to create a hilarious film filled with inappropriate, childish humor soaked with sex, drugs, and Vegas baby. [More...]


The new film, 'Waking the Baby Mammoth,' documents the discovery of perfectly preserved baby mammoth Lyuba. The story of her discovery is an inspiration for scientists, and the story of her short life tugs at the heartstrings of all viewers alike. [More...]


Guitarist Joe Satriani's song 'If I Could Fly' is musically similar to Coldplay's 'Viva la Vida.' He says the band ripped him off; the band maintains it is an artistic coincidence. How similar can two songs be before they're legally identical? [More...]


Like the multicolored balloons that rise and fall in "Up," the film is able to lift and descend the viewer to various depths of laugh-out-loud humor and mature emotional heartache. [More...]


With the television season coming to a close, be the first to know what to watch in September. Our picks for the best and worst of what's on TV.

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WATCH: The opening of the L.A. Dodgers 1962 season at the newly opened Dodgers Stadium officially marked the end of a neighborhood. A new exhibit tells the story of Chavez Ravine and other lost neighborhoods. [More...]


Tonight is finale night on NBC, but the network's Thursday night lineup may not be living up to its full potential, with shows like "Parks and Recreation" paralleling hits like "The Office." Is it time for NBC to mix it up a bit? [More...]


Allan Tannenbaum, the staff photographer at the SoHo Weekly News, captured the essence of New York City in the 1970s. At an exhibit of his work, aging hipsters struggled to recapture the magic of another era. [More...]


Back with a new album and a world tour, the Boss doesn't disappoint at his LA Sports Arena performances.  
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Sporting mohawks and leather are two ways to support autism at the Finding a Way Foundation's second rock benefit in Orange County, California.
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WATCH: Columbine survivor Andrew Robinson used the lessons he learned from the shooting in his fictionalized screenplay.  [More...]


On the eastern bookend of the Sunset Strip, iconic sound warehouse Amoeba Music honored the second annual event with giveaways, markdowns and customized commemorative t-shirts. Kiss axeman Ace Frehley even dropped by, sans makeup, to dispassionately brave the autograph-and-a-handshake routine for a long line of die-hard fans that wound through several aisles of world music CDs.
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Folks may not frequent too many jazz concerts these days, but that doesn't mean kids hearing it don't love it when they do. Neon Tommy takes us into an interactive jazz class where the students are the first to want more. [More...]


Finals are nigh, but even in more frenetic moments--especially in such times--it's important to take a moment to enjoy something sublime, like Mozart's music.
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Adventureland grapples with post-university angst and the challenges facing the over-educated but under-prepared in a move reminiscent of the works of Linklater, Apatow and Nichols.
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Mega-stars Clive Owen and Julia Roberts sizzle on screen, but it isn't enough to save this corporate spy film. [More...]


LISTEN: A visiting musician rocks the "oldest piano" at USC.
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Swedish film "Everlasting Moments" poignantly explores the power of a camera to help a turn-of-the-20th century battered wife through difficult times. It's much worthier of your time than its Hallmark name might suggest.
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Pearl Jam's classic grunge album, 'Ten,' has been re-released, and it's as good as it was way back in the '90s. [More...]


Achim Freyer's much-anticipated new production of Richard Wagner's "Das Rheingold" packs too much punch.  It's difficult to understand, difficult to relate to and not nearly as entertaining as is the opera in its more original, less reworked form.
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Many films seek to present a touching, cohesive product. Despite decent actor performances, lackluster Crossing Over is neither touching nor cohesive. [More...]


There is nothing better than watching a book-based movie as a scholar among scholars. [More...]


Neon Tommy speaks with relationship coach Lauren Frances, author of "'Dating, Mating and Manhandling: The Ornithological Guide to Men," about love during leaner times, first-date advice and texting etiquette. [More...]


<b>Wry dramady "Moscow, Belgium" takes a refreshingly real approach to romance in today's Belgium.</b>
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The Holocaust-themed film "Spell Your Name" privileges drab winter scenes over compelling raw interview footage--to the marked dissatisfaction of one of its viewers. [More...]


Daniel Kohn breaks down the music and style of ascending preppy duo Chester French. [More...]


The Do Lab has a nagging penchant for throwing thoughtful parties with cross-genre and cross-clique appeal. [More...]


Selick's newest film is a fun, if not remarkable, adventure through macabre plotlines and long familiar themes. [More...]


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Visually Stimulating Fable Tells Viewers To Be Careful What They Wish For. [More...]


Not Completely "Taken"

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100 Miles & Running ... And Running [More...]


"Taken" is best seen when there's nothing else playing or when someone else is paying.

In its full 93 minutes, never do you experience a "wow, how'd they do that" factor. Nevertheless, there's enough well-paced action to sustain interest throughout the film from when we first meet divorced father Bryan Mills (Liam Neeson) watching home videos in a small, dark room to when he finally catches up with his 17-year-old daughter Kim in Paris.

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