BOA Constricts fans at Rage Nightclub in West Hollywood

Asian Pop sensation BOA had a surprise appearance in West Hollywood, CA last Friday. Showing her snake strength by debuting her new video at GameBoi.


BOA partying it up at Rage.


My photog partner Sthanlee Mirador was able to capture a few shots of BOA as she performed at the GameBoi Night held at Rage Nightclub. Fans didn't mind the hold she had on them as they danced and jumped to her video but were also hoping she would sing.


BOA ©Sthanlee B. Mirador.

Here's a quick bio of BOA from Wikipedia:
Boa Kwon (born November 5, 1986), commonly known by her stage name BoA, is a Korean singer, active in both South Korea and Japan. Born and raised in Gyeonggi-do, South Korea, BoA was discovered by SM Entertainment talent agents when she accompanied her older brother to a talent search. In 2000, after two years of training, she released ID; Peace B, her debut Korean album, under SM Entertainment. Two years later, she released her debut Japanese album, Listen to My Heart, under the Avex label. In 2008, under SM Entertainment USA, a subdivision of SM Entertainment, BoA debuted in the United States with the single "Eat You Up".
BoA's multilingual skills (she speaks Japanese and conversational English along with her native Korean and has recorded songs in Mandarin Chinese) have contributed to her commercial success in South Korea and Japan and her popularity throughout Asia. She is one of only two non-Japanese Asians who have had million-selling albums in Japan and is one of only two artists to have first six consecutive number-one studio albums on the Oricon charts.

Jessica has a five minute quickie of Fancy!

Having to endure a wait for an hour for Miss Jessica Simpson, event photogs had only 5 minutes to shoot pop turned country artist as she launched her new Fragrance, Fancy at the Macy's South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa, CA.



The last time I did an event at this location was with Fergie. For Simpson, this was a bit more subdued event but more controlled than Fergie. We only had 5 minutes to take our shots. Unfortunately, it was a bit of a battle with the security and Macy employees standing in the way of our shoot. But as professional photographers, we still were able to get our shots.


Is this really my fragrance?

We were trying to get Jessica to take off her sweater to show off her fashion, but I guess it was a bit cold here in Southern California.

Thanks so much for the publicist trying to make sure that we were accommodated. Unfortunately, her hands were tied with the Macy's store telling her that the photo and media opp was limited to 5 minutes.



Oh well, I guess we'll just have to get a whiff of Jessica's Fancy to remind us about the quickie event we did with over 10 photogs driving more than 30 miles just to shoot this event with no "Over The Shoulder" shot from Jessica.


All photos by ©Peter Gonzaga. All Rights Reserved.

Don't get Madden, get even with K-DCMA Collective Shoes.

Benji and Joel Madden has launched their new DCMA Collect shoes with a collaboration with K-Swiss and Finish Line. If you're looking for some cutting edge street shoes, The Madden Bros have the shoes to kick that madness around with.


Benji and Joel at the Finish Line Los Cerritos in Cerritos, CA.

This past weekend was their big product launch of their premier line called K-DCMA starting off with a meet and greet event at the Finish Line Store at the Los Cerritos Center in Cerritos, CA. With over 300 fans waiting for an autograph of the Madden Bros, some fans snapped up their shoes to ensure their place in line for the meet and greet.


The Staff of Finish Line Cerritos

While Benji and Joel (Nicole Richie's man) were busy signing autographs, partner Tal Cooperman was supervising the bros and the line as other kin Josh Madden was chopping it up with fans of the Madden Bros. Even though Josh just got back from an 18 hour video shoot, he took the time to talk to the fans and make them feel like friends.


Fans checking out the DCMA Collective shoes.

This was my first time meeting Josh and he was so down to earth that I felt like I knew him for quite a while. What a nice guy to accommodate me with photo opps and ensuring that I was able to get an exclusive shot of the boys in the back room posing with the shoes and the enormous amount of K-DCMA shoe boxes stacked at the Finish Line Store.

One fan, Rushael Lawley, drove from Fresno, CA just to meet the boys. Her dad took the initiative to endure the 4 hour drive from their hometown just to make sure his daughter had her shoes signed and have a pic taken.


Rushael Lawley sporting her DCMA shoe!


Josh Madden and Tal Cooperman showing off DCMA.

The next day, the Madden Crew held their official launch at the DCMA Flagship Store off Melrose and Martel in Los Angeles. Hosted by DJ Joel Madden, party goers were hyped as they were given shoes to take home with them and get even with their DCMA street walkers.

No time for relaxation as the Madden Boys have another meet and greet in Northridge, CA.

Check out the Sleek and Groovy shoes at DCMA Collective

All photos ©Peter Gonzaga. All Rights Reserved.

Globes got me crazy

I tossed and turned the night before the Golden Globe nomination as I tried to sleep so I could be at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills on time for press check in at 4:00am this part Thursday.

It was an eerie feeling as I sat at in the lobby of the Hilton Hotel at 3:15 with a few other media people. The quietness was surreal. But once the 4:00am check in time came rolling around, the lobby became a frenzy of excite as we all waited to be cleared through security.

Once in, we took our spots then were treated to a buffet breakfast of croissant sandwich, egg muffin and various baked goods. I opted for the croissant. I met new and old press contacts and was ready to see the nomination presenters.



Before going live for the morning shows in New York, HFPA President Jorge Camara introduced the nomination presenters consisting of Brooke Shields, Rainn Wilson, Elizabeth Banks and Terrence Howard. Once the group announced various nominees before the live feed, we took our spots to capture the essence of the presenters that morning.


Jorge Camara



It was bit interesting to see that Brooke, Terrence and Rainn towered over Elizabeth Banks. How cute to see that Banks seemed more adorable standing next to the other three.

The biggest laugh of the morning was when James Franco was nominated for his role in "Pineapple Express." However, others moaned afterwards as why not nominated for his role in "Milk."

As this was my first time covering the Globe nomination, I was surprised as how fast the event went. At 5:30am, the noms was beamed live to the East Coast, then within ten minutes it was over. For us photogs, work had just begun as we rushed back to our office/homes or where ever we could edit our photos then post our respective agency site.

Lacking the sleep I thought I had, was a bit overbearing as I finished my editing by 7am.

But my day was not over as I still had to catch up on other premiere photo coverage I did with the last two days from "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button," "Gran Torino" and having to stay at work to do other wire service duties.

My day didn't end there as I had to cover Jennifer Aniston's new film, "Marley & Me" that night.

On top of that, I had a migraine to deal with. So unfortunately, no yelling at Aniston to do an "Over The Shoulder" pose.

Enough about my ranting. Below is the Globe Nominations:

HOLLYWOOD FOREIGN PRESS ASSOCIATION 2008 GOLDEN GLOBE AWARDS NOMINATIONS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2008

1. BEST MOTION PICTURE – DRAMA
a. THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON
Warner Bros. Pictures and Paramount Pictures; Warner Bros. Pictures and Paramount Pictures
b. FROST/NIXON
Imagine Entertainment, Working Title, Studio Canal; Universal Pictures
c. THE READER
Mirage Enterprises; The Weinstein Company
d. REVOLUTIONARY ROAD
An Evamere Entertainment BBC Films Neal Street Production; DreamWorks Pictures in Association with BBC Films and Paramount Vantage
e. SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE
Fox Searchlight Pictures and Warner Bros.; Fox Searchlight Pictures and Warner Bros.

2. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A MOTION PICTURE – DRAMA
a. ANNE HATHAWAY – RACHEL GETTING MARRIED
b. ANGELINA JOLIE – CHANGELING
c. MERYL STREEP – DOUBT
d. KRISTIN SCOTT THOMAS – I'VE LOVED YOU SO LONG (IL Y A LONGTEMPS QUE JE T’AIME)
e. KATE WINSLET – REVOLUTIONARY ROAD

3. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A MOTION PICTURE – DRAMA
a. LEONARDO DICAPRIO – REVOLUTIONARY ROAD
b. FRANK LANGELLA – FROST/NIXON
c. SEAN PENN – MILK
d. BRAD PITT – THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON
e. MICKEY ROURKE – THE WRESTLER

4. BEST MOTION PICTURE – COMEDY OR MUSICAL
a. BURN AFTER READING
Working Title/Releasing Company; Focus Features in association with Studio Canal
b. HAPPY-GO-LUCKY
Summit Entertainment, Film4, Ingenious Film Partners, Miramax Films; Miramax Films
c. IN BRUGES
Blueprint Pictures; Focus Features
d. MAMMA MIA!
Relativity Media, Playtone, Littlestar; Universal Pictures
e. VICKY CRISTINA BARCELONA
Mediapro; The Weinstein Company

5.BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A MOTION PICTURE – COMEDY OR MUSICAL
a. REBECCA HALL – VICKY CRISTINA BARCELONA
b. SALLY HAWKINS – HAPPY-GO-LUCKY
c. FRANCES MCDORMAND – BURN AFTER READING
d. MERYL STREEP – MAMMA MIA!
e. EMMA THOMPSON – LAST CHANCE HARVEY
6. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A MOTION PICTURE – COMEDY OR MUSICAL
a. JAVIER BARDEM – VICKY CRISTINA BARCELONA
b. COLIN FARRELL – IN BRUGES
c. JAMES FRANCO – PINEAPPLE EXPRESS
d. BRENDAN GLEESON – IN BRUGES
e. DUSTIN HOFFMAN – LAST CHANCE HARVEY

7. BEST ANIMATED FEATURE FILM
a. BOLT
Walt Disney Pictures; Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
b. KUNG FU PANDA
DreamWorks Animation SKG; Paramount Pictures
c. WALL-E
Walt Disney Pictures and Pixar Animation Studios; Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

8. BEST FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILM
a. THE BAADER MEINHOF COMPLEX (GERMANY)
(DER BAADER MEINHOF KOMPLEX)
Constantin Film Produktion GmbH; Summit Entertainment, LLC
b. EVERLASTING MOMENTS (SWEDEN/DENMARK)
(MARIA LARSSONS EVIGA ÖGONBLICK)
Final Cut Productions Aps; IFC Films
c. GOMORRAH (ITALY)
(GOMORRA)
Fandango; IFC Films
d. I'VE LOVED YOU SO LONG (FRANCE)
(IL Y A LONGTEMPS QUE JE T’AIME)
UGC YM/UGC Images/France 3 Cinema/Integral Film; Sony Pictures Classics
e. WALTZ WITH BASHIR (ISRAEL)
Bridgit Folman Film Gang/Les Films D'Ici/Razor Films/Arte France/ITVS International; Sony Pictures Classics

9. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A MOTION PICTURE
a. AMY ADAMS – DOUBT
b. PENELOPE CRUZ – VICKY CRISTINA BARCELONA
c. VIOLA DAVIS –DOUBT
d. MARISA TOMEI – THE WRESTLER
e. KATE WINSLET – THE READER

10. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A MOTION PICTURE
a. TOM CRUISE – TROPIC THUNDER
b. ROBERT DOWNEY JR. –TROPIC THUNDER
c. RALPH FIENNES – THE DUCHESS
d. PHILIP SEYMOUR HOFFMAN – DOUBT
e. HEATH LEDGER – THE DARK KNIGHT

11. BEST DIRECTOR – MOTION PICTURE
a. DANNY BOYLE – SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE
b. STEPHEN DALDRY – THE READER
c. DAVID FINCHER – THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON
d. RON HOWARD – FROST/NIXON
e. SAM MENDES – REVOLUTIONARY ROAD

12. BEST SCREENPLAY – MOTION PICTURE
a. SIMON BEAUFOY – SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE
b. DAVID HARE – THE READER
c. PETER MORGAN – FROST/NIXON
d. ERIC ROTH – THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN
e. JOHN PATRICK SHANLEY – DOUBT

13. BEST ORIGINAL SCORE – MOTION PICTURE
a. ALEXANDRE DESPLAT –THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON
b. CLINT EASTWOOD – CHANGELING
c. JAMES NEWTON HOWARD – DEFIANCE
d. A. R. RAHMAN – SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE
e. HANS ZIMMER – FROST/NIXON

14. BEST ORIGINAL SONG – MOTION PICTURE
a. “DOWN TO EARTH” — WALL-E
Music by: Peter Gabriel, Thomas Newman
Lyrics by: Peter Gabriel
b. “GRAN TORINO” — GRAN TORINO
Music by: Clint Eastwood, Jamie Cullum, Kyle Eastwood, Michael Stevens
Lyrics by: Jamie Cullum
c. “I THOUGHT I LOST YOU” — BOLT
Music & Lyrics by: Miley Cyrus, Jeffrey Steele
d. “ONCE IN A LIFETIME” — CADILLAC RECORDS
Music & Lyrics by: Beyoncé Knowles, Amanda Ghost, Scott McFarnon, Ian Dench, James Dring, Jody Street
e. “THE WRESTLER” — THE WRESTLER
Music & Lyrics by: Bruce Springsteen

15. BEST TELEVISION SERIES – DRAMA
a. DEXTER (SHOWTIME)
Showtime/John Goldwyn Productions/The Colleton Company/Clyde Phillips Productions
b. HOUSE (FOX)
Universal Media Studios in association with Heel and Toe Films, Shore Z Productions and Bad Hat Harry Productions
c. IN TREATMENT (HBO)
Sheleg, Closest To The Hole Productions and Leverage in association with HBO Entertainment
d. MAD MEN (AMC)
Lionsgate Television
e. TRUE BLOOD (HBO)
Your Face Goes Here Productions in association with HBO Entertainment

16. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A TELEVISION SERIES – DRAMA
a. SALLY FIELD – BROTHERS AND SISTERS
b. MARISKA HARGITAY –LAW AND ORDER: SPECIAL VICTIMS UNIT
c. JANUARY JONES – MAD MEN
d. ANNA PAQUIN – TRUE BLOOD
e. KYRA SEDGWICK – THE CLOSER

17. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A TELEVISION SERIES – DRAMA
a. GABRIEL BYRNE – IN TREATMENT
b. MICHAEL C. HALL – DEXTER
c. JON HAMM – MAD MEN
d. HUGH LAURIE – HOUSE
e. JONATHAN RHYS MEYERS – THE TUDORS

18. BEST TELEVISION SERIES – COMEDY OR MUSICAL
a. 30 ROCK (NBC)
Universal Media Studios in association with Broadway Video and Little Stranger Inc.
b. CALIFORNICATION (SHOWTIME)
Showtime Presents in association with Aggressive Mediocrity, And Then...
c. ENTOURAGE (HBO)
Leverage and Closest to the Hole Productions in association with HBO Entertainment
d. THE OFFICE (NBC)
Deedle Dee Productions, Reveille LLC, Universal Media Studios
e. WEEDS (SHOWTIME)
Lionsgate Television

19.BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A TELEVISION SERIES –COMEDY OR MUSICAL
a. CHRISTINA APPLEGATE – SAMANTHA WHO?
b. AMERICA FERRERA – UGLY BETTY
c. TINA FEY – 30 ROCK
d. DEBRA MESSING – THE STARTER WIFE
e. MARY-LOUISE PARKER – WEEDS

20. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A TELEVISION SERIES – COMEDY OR MUSICAL
a. ALEC BALDWIN – 30 ROCK
b. STEVE CARELL – THE OFFICE
c. KEVIN CONNOLLY – ENTOURAGE
d. DAVID DUCHOVNY – CALIFORNICATION
e. TONY SHALHOUB – MONK

21. BEST MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION
a. A RAISIN IN THE SUN (ABC)
Sony Pictures Television, Storyline Entertainment, and Bad Boy Worldwide Entertainment
b. BERNARD AND DORIS (HBO
Trigger Street Independent Productions in association with Little Bird and Chicago Films and HBO Films
c. CRANFORD (PBS)
A Co-Production of BBC and WGBH Boston.
d. JOHN ADAMS (HBO)
Playtone in association with HBO Films
e. RECOUNT (HBO)
Spring Creek/Mirage Productions in association with Trigger Street Productions, Everyman Pictures and HBO Films

22. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION
a. JUDI DENCH – CRANFORD
b. CATHERINE KEENER – AN AMERICAN CRIME
c. LAURA LINNEY – JOHN ADAMS
d. SHIRLEY MACLAINE – COCO CHANEL
e. SUSAN SARANDON – BERNARD AND DORIS

23. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION
a. RALPH FIENNES – BERNARD AND DORIS
b. PAUL GIAMATTI – JOHN ADAMS
c. KEVIN SPACEY – RECOUNT
d. KIEFER SUTHERLAND – 24: REDEMPTION
e. TOM WILKINSON – RECOUNT

24. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A SERIES, MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION
a. EILEEN ATKINS – CRANFORD
b. LAURA DERN – RECOUNT
c. MELISSA GEORGE – IN TREATMENT
d. RACHEL GRIFFITHS – BROTHERS AND SISTERS
e. DIANNE WIEST – IN TREATMENT

25. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A SERIES, MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION
a. NEIL PATRICK HARRIS – HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER
b. DENIS LEARY – RECOUNT
c. JEREMY PIVEN – ENTOURAGE
d. BLAIR UNDERWOOD – IN TREATMENT
e. TOM WILKINSON – JOHN ADAMS

NOMINATIONS BY MOTION PICTURE STUDIOS AND TELEVISION NETWORKS
MOTION PICTURE STUDIOS
Warner Bros. Pictures – 11
Universal Pictures – 9
The Weinstein Company – 8
Fox Searchlight Pictures – 7
Miramax Films – 7
DreamWorks Pictures – 6
Focus Features – 6
Paramount Pictures – 6
Paramount Vantage – 6
BBC Films – 5
Sony Pictures Classics – 4
Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures – 4
IFC Films – 2
Overture Films – 2
Sony Pictures Releasing – 2
Studio Canal – 2
Pathe – 1
Summit Entertainment, LLC – 1
Village Roadshow – 1

TELEVISION NETWORKS
HBO – 22
SHOWTIME – 8
NBC – 6
ABC – 5
AMC – 5
FOX – 3
PBS – 3
USA NETWORK – 2
CBS – 1
LIFETIME TELEVISION – 1
TNT – 1

NOMINATIONS BY MOTION PICTURE
THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON – 5
DOUBT – 5
FROST/NIXON – 5
THE READER – 4
REVOLUTIONARY ROAD – 4
SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE – 4
VICKY CRISTINA BARCELONA – 4
IN BRUGES – 3
THE WRESTLER – 3
BOLT – 2
BURN AFTER READING – 2
CHANGELING – 2
HAPPY-GO-LUCKY – 2
I'VE LOVED YOU SO LONG (IL Y A LONGTEMPS QUE JE T'AIME) – 2
LAST CHANCE HARVEY – 2
MAMMA MIA! – 2
TROPIC THUNDER – 2
WALL-E – 2
BAADER MEINHOF COMPLEX (DER BAADER MEINHOF KOMPLEX) – 1
CADILLAC RECORDS – 1
THE DARK KNIGHT – 1
DEFIANCE – 1
THE DUCHESS – 1
EVERLASTING MOMENTS (MARIA LARSSONS EVIGA ÖGONBLICK) – 1
GOMORRAH (GOMORRA) – 1
GRAN TORINO – 1
KUNG FU PANDA – 1
MILK – 1
PINEAPPLE EXPRESS – 1
RACHEL GETTING MARRIED – 1
WALTZ WITH BASHIR – 1

NOMINATIONS BY TELEVISION SERIES OR PROGRAM
IN TREATMENT – 5
RECOUNT – 5
JOHN ADAMS – 4
30 ROCK – 3
BERNARD AND DORIS – 3
CRANFORD – 3
ENTOURAGE – 3
MAD MEN – 3
BROTHERS AND SISTERS – 2
CALIFORNICATION – 2
DEXTER – 2
HOUSE – 2
THE OFFICE – 2
TRUE BLOOD – 2
WEEDS – 2
24: REDEMPTION – 1
A RAISIN IN THE SUN – 1
AN AMERICAN CRIME – 1
CLOSER, THE – 1
COCO CHANEL – 1
HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER – 1
LAW AND ORDER: SPECIAL VICTIMS UNIT – 1
MONK – 1
SAMANTHA WHO? – 1
THE STARTER WIFE – 1
UGLY BETTY – 1

Eastwood takes his Gran Torino onto the Warner Lot.

Yesterday, the new Clint Eastwood film "Gran Torino" opened to a limited audience. For the World Premiere, the media coverage was even more limited.


Clint Eastwood.

Many wonder why such an interesting movie as "Gran Torino" would have a limited World Premiere event that the general public would not have access to. The premiere was held at the Stephen J. Ross Theater on the Warner Bros. Lot in Burbank secluded away from the public.

Your guess is good as mine. It could be that Eastwood is very private person and when it comes to premieres he's a bit reluctant to pose. I can imagine being in the limelight for so long that one would rather have the public concentrate on the film itself than the usual package of a premiere.

However, it was still a pleasure to be a part of that history of seeing Mr. Eastwood walk down a carpet for his film. As an American of the Asian persuasion, it ws even more endearing to see newcomers, Bee Vang and Ahney Her walk the carpet in support of their film with Eastwood.

Young Ahney Her posed like a veteran for the photographers. Watching her naturally move along the carpet was so refreshing. She knew the step and repeat process of a premiere. Automatically putting her hands on her hips and knowing that it takes some flexibility to do an "Over The Shoulder" pose illustrates that Ahney is ready to take Hollywood by storm just like fellow young Asian American actors such as Justin Chon and Aaron Yoo.



In the film, Ahney plays Sue Lor, sister of Thao Vang Lor (played by Bee Vang). The two are neighbors of Korean War Veteran Walt Kowalski (Clint Eastwood). As he watches his neighborhood slowly integrate with Hmong refugees, his widowed life becomes more bitter. One fateful night, Thao sets out to still Kowalski's prized possession, a Gran Torino car. That events sets into motion, a bond between Kowalski, Thao and his family.


Bee Vang

A Trailer of "Gran Torino"



Back to the carpet, Alison Eastwood showed her support for her father. Along for her ride was her husband Stacey. Funny thing was when a photog asked, who's with her, she jokingly said, "That's my husband Stacey, just like the girl's name." I wonder if she was supposed to be a comedian or just a director.


Alison Eastwood.

A big surprise of the night was Angelina Jolie. What a delight to shoot her today in a row. However, she was a bit more casual in an olive long sleeved blouse and black pants than a flowing fashion number the night before.



She was so accommodating with the photographers posing for at least 10 minutes.

We definitely can't be choosy.

Until next time, "Over The Shoulder!"

Sharon gets stoned while Jolie gives photographers their jollies at the "Benjamin Button" Premiere

Last night was a black tie affair premiere for the new Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett film "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button." While heading through the carpet, an interesting sound resonated through the air as Sharon Stone walked on the carpet ignoring the event photographers! Could it be that they were excited to see Sharon on the carpet. Nooo...not a chance, it came to light that Ms. Stone was going to do her usual ignore the accredited photographers while walking down the carpet.


Sharon Stone breezes through the carpet!

This time, Stone would be verbally stoned as she ignored us. One photographer was heard saying, "We're not the paps, we're here to give you publicity!" Then all of sudden, she was booed throughout the carpet. Another photog shouted, "Come on Sharon! If Angelina can give us respect and pose, so can you!" While another blasted Stone by saying, "Sharon! Make up for the Milkshop.com fiasco. You made us resort to papping you at that event!"


Angelina Jolie

Getting back to Angelina, she was so gracious enough as we asked nicely, "Angelina please come back! We didn't get any solo shots." To our amazement, she made the effort of coming back around a stanchion to pose for us red carpet photographers.

I guess she knows the difference between paps and event photographers that her significant other explained in an interview with Access Hollywood:

"Let me be very blunt, I hate them," Brad said firmly. "I hate these people. I don't understand how they do that for a living."


Brad Pitt sportin' a stache!

However, Brad was quick to distinguish between professional photographers and hounding paparazzi.

"We have to make a distinction between people who photograph celebrities at events and people who climb over walls wearing camouflage... calling out your kids' names as you try to take them to school so they'll look that way," Brad said, "I have no respect for these people. There should be laws against it. They should not be able to follow kids like this, but there's not right now, so that's the way it is."

As for Brad on the carpet, he's always a delight in photographing on the carpet. During this premiere, he actually gave us a treat by having his parents pose with Angelina and him.

As for his cast mates, they definitely worked with the camera. Unfortunately for Ms. Blanchett, buzz about her outfit was negative. Many loved the sequenced dress but when starting to move the eyes lower, the dress was ruined by some sort of spandex material that wrapped around her thighs. Oh well, sometimes it's good and sometimes it's bad.


Jennifer Lopez

A surprise for all of us was the attendance of Jennifer Lopez. She definitely knows that cream makes her sexy. Wow, she brought back her bodacious body after having kids.

Eva Longoria had a nice aqua shiny number on that made her eyes sparkle.


Eva Longoria

The icing on the cake would have been Tom and Kate plus Will and Jada, but that didn't happen.

Anyways more about the film according to Paramount Pictures:
“I was born under unusual circumstances.” And so begins “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” adapted from the 1920s story by F. Scott Fitzgerald about a man who is born in his eighties and ages backwards. A man, like any of us, unable to stop time. We follow his story set in New Orleans from the end of World War I in 1918, into the 21st century, following his journey that is as unusual as any man’s life can be. Directed by David Fincher, “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” is a time traveler’s tale of the people and places he bumps into along the way, the loves he loses and finds, the joys of life and the sadness of death, and what lasts beyond time.

RELEASE DATE: December 25, 2008

Check out the trailer

A star studded cast musical on the H8 of Prop 8!

Jack Black, Neil Patrick Harris, Kathy Najimy, Margaret Cho and many others join in an interesting musical about Prop 8 and the H8.

See more Jack Black videos at Funny or Die

Various Interview Clips from the 2008 CAPE Holiday Soiree

Last night, CAPE honored Tim Kring, John Cho, James Hong and Adele Yoshioka for their accomplishments and achievement in helping perpetuate the positive image of Asian Pacific Islanders in the entertainment industry. Here interview clips from recipients and celebrity guests.

Clips included are of Tim Kring, James Hong, John Cho, Collin Chou, James Kyson Lee, Leonardo Nam and Karin Anna Cheung.

Tim Kring on his Visionary Award from CAPE


John Cho


James Hong on his career


Collin Chou of "Matrix" and "Forbidden Kingdom" fame


Leonardo Nam of "Fast and Furious" and "Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2" fame


James Kyson Lee on Tim Kring's award and what is his signature dish!


A B-Roll shot of Sendhill Ramamurthy and James Hong on the red carpet

Tim Kring receives the Visionary Award from Asian Pacific Entertainers

Last night in West Hollywood, CA, "Heroes" creator Tim Kring received the Visionary Award from CAPE (Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment) for his work of ensuring diversity in his entertainment projects.

Here's mini-clip of a montage of interviews of the award recipients from CAPE


Originally only supposed to pose for photographers, Kring was gracious enough to grant me and my colleague a video interview while he walked the red carpet for CAPE's 2008 Holiday Soiree. My colleague Elmer asked Kring what he thought about receiving the Visionary Award from this group. Kring explains, "The idea that this award honors diversity and social change is a big theme on the show (Heroes). The show is about inter-connectivity and about people from all over the world finding one another and coming together in order to do great things. It's not a stretch to accepting an award that is close to what the premise of the show is all about." To illustrate the advancement of Asians in TV and film, next week episode of "Heroes" will be done in the Japanese language.

In film, John Cho has become one of the leading Asian American actors succeeding in Hollywood in lead roles which Asian Pacific Islanders are usually relegated to secondary or character roles. Cho was originally known as the young teen in "American Pie" whose character brought the slang MILF to the American culture. Cho's big break as a lead actor came in the form of "Harold and Kumar Go To White Castle" and the sequel "Harold and Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay." John's next major film is the anxiously awaited "Star Trek" in which he plays Lieutenant Hikaru Sulu. For his success and growth in Hollywood as an actor of Asian Pacific decent, CAPE awarded him the New Horizon Award.


John Cho with his buddy Leonardo Lam. Lam also presented Cho with an award two weeks ago from KoreAM Magazine.

Other award recipient for the night included James Hong for Lifetime Achievement Award. I was surprised to learn that Hong made close to 500 films in during his career. During the red carpet, Hong was also interviewing various celebrities as they walked the red carpet. Apparently, Hong was conducting these interviews for a documentary that he is working on.


Adele Yoshioka with James Hong.

The lone female of award recipients was Adele Yoshioka for Outstanding Service Award. Originally a dancer, actress and model, Yoshioka segued into international film distribution. Her community service included producing, directing and choreographing shows for the Japanese community and serving as board member for the AAPAA, East West Players and CAPE.

Helping celebrate that achievements of these notable individuals included a who's who of Asian Pacific celebrities from the likes of James Kyson Lee, Collin Chou, Leonardo Nam, Kal Penn, Amy Hill, Sendhil Ramamurthy and Karin Anna Cheung.


James Kyson Lee presented the Visionary Award to Tim Kring.

For Cheung, I think we put her on blast as we asked her to sing one of her original song compositions during our red carpet interview. However, it was not to happen. During the event, we caught up with Cheung as she was enjoying her dinner and mentioned to her, "Next time we see you on the carpet, you owe us a song?" She jokingly said, "If I see you guys on the carpet, I'm going to run the other way."

Maybe, while she runs the other way, Cheung may give us an "Over The Shoulder" pose.


The lovely Karin Anna Cheung has some words for newest Pacific Rim Video correspondent Elmer.

Elmer and I tag team on interesting interview we had with Karin Anna Cheung.

Shane Sparks showing the sparks for ABDC Season 3

Shane Sparks is sparking it on with what to expect in Season 3. From the Fanny Paks to the Super Cr3ws, Season 2 has definitely brought on more crews to audition for Season 3.

Take a quick look at what Shane had to say about the upcoming season.



Also, we have a group out from San Jose, CA who auditioned in Los Angeles for Season 3. The Head Hunters are hoping that they can honor one of the members' sister, Ruby Lynn, who passed away not long ago. Much respect for the Head Hunters. However, honoring the death of a loved one is not the only thing that brings a crew to the actual show. HH must prove to the talent scout and judges that they should be one of the nine crews to battle on the show itself.

For the Head Hunters, drama has already erupted on Pacific Rim Photo Press' youtube channel as one posting has already accused the crew of using a "sob story" to try and get past the auditions to land a spot on the show. We'll have to see in January when the show premieres.

Here's a clip of our interview with the Head Hunters before their audition.


From our friends at Blogging America's Best Dance Crew, a clip of the Head Hunters' audition. You be the judge if they have what it takes to get past the audition phase.

Jonas Brothers launch their new book "Burning Up: On Tour With The Jonas Brothers."

The day after the American Music Awards, the Jonas Brothers had no time to rest as they did a spot on Jay Leno then had to attend their book launch for their upcoming tour memoir "Burning Up: On Tour with The Jonas Brothers."

In a special private book launch in West Hollywood, CA the Jonas Brothers along with special guests were treated to various life size photographs from the Jonas Brothers' tour.

According to the Disney Book Group, "This is the first and only book written by Kevin, Joe, and Nick. You'll get a first hand view of their life behind-the-scenes and on stage performing for fans around the world. The book includes 200 never-before-seen amazing photos with detailed descriptions by the brothers themselves--making this the ultimate backstage pass to life on the road with the Jonas Brothers."

For us photographers, it was originally a negative start to the book launch event as we were subjected to being told to leave the red carpet area and just take pictures of the guests and the Jonas Brothers coming out of their car. Some of us protested as we said, "We do not take pap style photos. Don't you want us to cover the event with the backdrop of Disney Book step and repeat area?"

Finally, the publicist found us a makeshift spot to take photos of the Jonas Bros and guests in front of a wall that had the front cover of the book displayed.


Jordan Sparks poses next to the cover shot of the JoBros new book.

Thanks to the publicist for finally finding a resolution to us carpet-less photographers. But then we were subjected to security attitude as one security took his post so seriously that he acted like a police officer asking one photographer to stay in one certain area. Unfortunately, for my colleague as he listened to the security guard's assault of words, he just stared at the guard then turned away but this guard just kept staring at my photog colleague. I finally told my colleague to say to the security guard, "I understand." That finally made the security guard leave back to his position. Hmmm sometimes these security guards had such bad attitudes that it makes us legitimate photographers not want to do our jobs.

Oh well, we got over it as the rent-a-cop had went back to his position. Funny thing though, I saw that particular rent-a-cop at another red carpet event and still had that nasty attitude.

We as photogs respect security when they respect us.

Anyways, back to the book launch. It was a bit nice to see that the Jonas Bros seems humble. They actually took time to pose for us photogs. Guests included Maurice Bernard and Nancy Lee Grahn of "General Hospital," Madison Pettis, Jordan Sparks, Meghan Martin and Roshon Fegan.

I was privy to actually attend the book launch and not just cover the red carpet. My good friend Becky had me accompany her into the party. With the Jonas Bros not being of age, the bar had a special drink mix called the Jonas Brothers Drink. From what I could remember the bartender said it was a mix of fruit juices. I ended opting to add some vodka to it.

The food spread was great with finger licking bbq chicken, two types of pasta, pizza, chilli and mashed potatoes. Along with the main entree, we had appetizers of shrimp cocktail and pigs in a blanket.


Joe Jonas spots my camera as the Nick and Kevin look the other way.

To top it off was a dessert bar of ice cream. I think I saw Joe Jonas stick with vanilla bean. The funniest thing was my friend was asking for off the wall things/souvenirs from the Jonas Bros to give to her friend's daughter. The most craziest thing was Becky taking a brownie and asking Joe to put a thumbprint on the brownie. He kind of looked at her like she was a bit crazy.

As she did that Nancy Lee Grahn of "General Hospital" passed by me and I commented on her raspberry colored martini. I was a bit surprised as she smiled and said, "Would you like to taste?" I graciously said, "No. I just had a Jonas Bros drink." Nancy quipped back at me, "Oh then you need this." I said, "Oh no, really I don't. I had the bartender add vodka to the Jonas drink."

Disney publicists were taking polaroid shots of guests and tacking them up to a wall. There was also another wall in which guests could write a note to the JoBros.


Madison Pettis is all excited for the JoBros book.

As the party began to wind down, the JoBros made their way to the string quartet to listen to them play. It was a bit cute as Joe also acted like a conductor to the quartet for one song.

It was finally time to go as we were given a gift bag containing the new book and cd from the Jonas Brothers. Unfortunately, I didn't take a pic with the bros as I didn't want to seem like a crazy middle aged man acting like a fan.


Jonas Brothers with Jordan Sparks.

Until next time, "Over The Shoulder!"

All photos by me, Peter Gonzaga. All rights reserved

Thanks to all that read my post!

Today is Thanksgiving and I would like to extend my thanks and gratitude for all the readers who have supported my blog and all the new visitors who unknowingly end up on my site through their internet searches.

Thanks to all who comment good or bad. The comments help me grow.

Hope you, your family and friends have a wonderful Thanksgiving as I give thanks to you and give you more "Over The Shoulder" during this holiday season.

Here is a video of my nephew and his pre-school class singing about the world is like a rainbow with different people. It's a new era and a new age with a new president. Hopefully we can be acceptable of others and not just tolerant.

Enjoy your turkey day!!!!

Candice Gingrich tells brother Newt, enough is enough!

Dear Newt,
I recently had the displeasure of watching you bash the protestors of the Prop 8 marriage ban to Bill O'Reilly on FOX News. I must say, after years of watching you build your career by stirring up the fears and prejudices of the far right, I feel compelled to use the words of your idol, Ronald Reagan, "There you go, again."
However, I realize that you may have been a little preoccupied lately with planning your resurrection as the savior of your party, so I thought I would fill you in on a few important developments you might have overlooked.

The truth is that you're living in a world that no longer exists. I, along with millions of Americans, clearly see the world the way it as -- and we embrace what it can be. You, on the other hand, seem incapable of looking for new ideas or moving beyond what worked in the past.

Welcome to the 21st century, big bro. I can understand why you're so afraid of the energy that has been unleashed after gay and lesbian couples had their rights stripped away from them by a hateful campaign. I can see why you're sounding the alarm against the activists who use all the latest tech tools to build these rallies from the ground up in cities across the country.

This unstoppable progress has at its core a group we at HRC call Generation Equality. They are the most supportive of full LGBT equality than any American generation ever -- and when it comes to the politics of division, well, they don't roll that way. 18-24 year olds voted overwhelmingly against Prop 8 and overwhelmingly for Barack Obama. And the numbers of young progressive voters will only continue to grow. According to the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning, about 23 million 18-29 year olds voted on Nov. 4, 2008 -- the most young voters ever to cast a ballot in a presidential election. That's an increase of 3 million more voters compared to 2004.

These are the same people who helped elect Barack Obama and sent a decisive message to your party. These young people are the future and their energy will continue to drive our country forward. Even older Americans are turning their backs on the politics of fear and demagoguery that you and your cronies have perfected over the years.

This is a movement of the people that you most fear. It's a movement of progress -- and your words on FOX News only show how truly desperate you are to maintain control of a world that is changing before your very eyes.

Then again, we've seen these tactics before. We know how much the right likes to play political and cultural hardball, and then turn around and accuse us of lashing out first. You give a pass to a religious group -- one that looks down upon minorities and women -- when they use their money and membership roles to roll back the rights of others, and then you label us "fascists" when we fight back. You belittle the relationships of gay and lesbian couples, and yet somehow neglect to explain who anointed you the protector of "traditional" marriage. And, of course, you've also mastered taking the foolish actions of a few people and then indicting an entire population based on those mistakes. I fail to see how any of these patterns coincide with the values of "historic Christianity" you claim to champion.

Again, nothing new here. This is just more of the blatant hypocrisy we're used to hearing.

What really worries me is that you are always willing to use LGBT Americans as political weapons to further your ambitions. That's really so '90s, Newt. In this day and age, it's embarrassing to watch you talk like that. You should be more afraid of the new political climate in America, because, there is no place for you in it.

In other words, stop being a hater, big bro.


- Candace Gingrich

Far*East Movement makes online history with first live online streaming of a record release party!

Last night in a studio in Burbank, CA, the hip hop/rap group Far*East Movement or also known as FM held their record release party for their upcoming album Animal. The most unique element of their party was the fact that they were able to bring the fans into the studios via a live stream of their party.

Realizing the importance of connecting to their fans, the group decided the bring the party to the people via the live online broadcast of the party which included a live show of Far*East Movement performing cuts from their previous albums and new cuts from the Animal album.

Through the kindness of StickAm, FM was able to interact with their fans through the blog and live chat. FM egged on their online party people to answer questions and win prizes throughout the release party.

According, to the group, an online release party has never been done before. This may be paving the way for new artists to connect with their fans through the net.

For more information on the hottest hip hop/rap group bubbling under the radar visit www.fareastmovement.com

Check out a quick peek as my co-host Elmer joined in on the party


More sample clips of Far East Movement's sound to come!

The Dance Crews show their support for Culture Shock LA at The Expo

This weekend was filled with dancing and music as I attended an event called "The Expo." It was a charitable event to benefit Culture Shock LA. Guests included former dance crews and dancers of "Randy Jackson Present America's Best Dance Crew," "So You Think You Can Dance," "America's Got Talent" and two actresses from the Disney Channel's "Hannah Montana."

They were all there to lend their support and awareness for the Los Angeles Chapter of Culture Shock.

Culture Shock® is a non-profit 501(c)(3) hip-hop dance troupe dedicated to cutting-edge entertainment, dance education and outreach to diverse communities. Founded in 1993 by Nike Dance Trainer Angie Bunch, Culture Shock has grown from its home location of San Diego to cities across the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom.

Take a peek and some of the interviews I had my other correspondent Elmer do with the various celebrity dancers plus performances from Kaba Modern, Culture Shock and Future Shock....

Romi Dames of "Hannah Montana"



Katerina Graham of "Hannah Montana" fame and upcoming film "17 Again"


Yuri and Taeko of the Yuri and Taeko Show


Culture Shock LA's performance


Future Shock's performance


Kaba Modern


Do Knock Cruz of Super Cr3w interview


Super Cr3w at The Expo


Fanny Pak interview


Ryan Conferido of "So You Think You Can Dance" and dance crew Quest

Twilight lights up the box office!

Looks like....no doesn't look like, "Twilight" did blow out the competition at the box office this weekend by raking in $70 million. With that in mind, it has Summit Entertainment talking sequel.



Here's the official word from Summit Entertainment:


SUMMIT ENTERTAINMENT ANNOUNCES
TWILIGHT SEQUEL - NEW MOON

Los Angeles, CA November 22, 2008 — Summit Entertainment announced today that the studio is officially moving forward with the production of NEW MOON, the second installment of its filmed franchise TWILIGHT, the action-packed, modern day vampire love story. The movie will be based on the second novel in author Stephenie Meyer's Twilight series titled, New Moon. The first movie in the TWILIGHT franchise, the self-titled TWILIGHT, arrived in theaters this weekend to sold-out showings.

Stephenie Meyer stated, "I don't think any other author has had a more positive experience with the makers of her movie adaptation than I have had with Summit Entertainment. I'm thrilled to have the chance to work with them again on NEW MOON."

Aaron Yoo gets his playlist together of why he's proud to be Korean American

Last night in Los Angeles, KoreAM magazine celebrated its Unforgettable event that highlights achievement of Korean Americans in the U.S. Hosted by Margaret Cho, various Korean American came through the red carpet to show their pride in being American and in particular Korean. Up and coming actor Aaron Yoo took to the carpet and talked to this blogger about his experiences in Hollywood.


Aaron Yoo shows his support for Shia LaBeouf during the "Eagle Eye" premiere in Hollywood. ©Pacific Rim Photo Press.

For Aaron Yoo, this young actor started his career as a cinematographer then moved into acting in 2003 with his first role in "Ed" as a student. His major breakthrough in film came in the form of the independent feature "Rocket Science." However, the film that propelled him to mainstream America was "Disturbia" starring Shia LaBouf in which he played Shia's best friend.


Aaron Yoo in "Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist."

From Disturbia, moved onto the sleeper hit "Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist." Yoo played Thom, the gay leader of Nick's (Michael Cera) punk rock band The Jerk Offs. Interestingly enough, this character didn't perpetuate the flamboyant stereotype that gays are perceived in movies and tv.

As I caught Aaron on the red carpet for the KoreAM event, this rising star had a lot to say about being Korean American in the entertainment industry, his upcoming role in the remake of "Friday The Thirteenth" and turning the tables on my by asking about what kind of video camera to get since he's going on a trip.

Check out the full interview clip of Aaron. He's such a hoot to talk to!

Justin Chon breaks stereotypes with his role in "Twilight"

In a recent interview I did with Justin Chon, he feels that he's helping break stereotypes of Americans of Asian decent in Hollywood. Apparently, his role as Eric Yorkie in "Twilight" supposedly was an Anglo but the casting directors took a gamble and gave him the part.


Justin Chon signing autographs at the Twilight Premiere in the Westwood area of Los Angeles.

I also asked Chon if there's a possibility that there is some type of glass ceiling for Asians. Justin responded that there is some to a degree but change is coming. Hopefully, there comes a point in Hollywood, where a role a person receives is based upon their ability to play that part instead of defaulting to race.

Check out my interview with Justin Chon at the KoreAM Unforgettable event that celebrates Korean Americans in the U.S.



Photo by Pacific Rim Video Press

Fans already want a Twilight sequel.

Fans who've waited so long for the debut of Twilight and made sure to by their tickets online are already hoping for a sequel. According to movietickets.com, respondents overwhelmingly want to see another Twilight in the works.



Movietickets.com asked respondents to vote on the following question:

Would you like to see a "Twilight" sequel?

1. Yes (94%)

2. No (6%)

Total Votes on MovieTickets.com: 6,944


Twilight makes top 5 presellers of All-Time at movietickets.com

TOP-5 PRESELLER OF ALL-TIME



"Twilight" finished at the No. 5 slot on MovieTickets.com's Top-5 Presellers of All-Time, one spot ahead of "Hannah Montana & Miley Cyrus: Best of Both Worlds Concert" and one behind "The Dark Knight."



MovieTickets.com Top-5 Pre-Sale List of All-Time

1. Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith

2. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

3. Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King

4. The Dark Knight

5. Twilight

Reese Witherspoon brings Christmas to Hollywood!

Last night was a joyous event as Christmas came early in Hollywood with Reese Witherspoon and cast members of Warner Bros'/New Line's "Four Christmases" celebrated its world premiere at the Grauman's Chinese Theater.




"Four Christmases" is about an unhappy couple that are stranded in the city by the Christmas morning fog that ruins their exotic vacation plans. Having to deal with the cards they are given, they must now celebrate their Christmas with relatives that they have been avoiding during the past holidays.

With flocked Christmas trees abound on the red carpet, it felt like Christmas was here already. Even the stars looked like they donned their Christmas best to attend a christmas dinner. With three of the young cast members attending, they had smiles for all the photogs to shoot. The tween and pre-teen talent included True Bella, Skyler Gisondo and Zak Boggan.


True Bella plays Kristin Chenoweth's daughter in the film. ©Peter Gonzaga/Nielsen Entertainment News.


Zak Boggan is one of the kids in "Four Christmases." ©Peter Gonzaga/Nielsen Entertainment News.

For the adult set, Kristin Chenoweth looked all lovely with her burgundy dress along with Charlie McDowell on her side.


Kristen Chenoweth with her burgandy dress. ©Peter Gonzaga/Nielsen Entertainment News.

Mary Steenburgen wore a glittery black number while the star of the film, Reese Witherspoon donned a one piece evening dress accented with gold topped off with a muted gold necklace. For co-star Katy Mixon, she opted with a hot pink skin tight dress which caused all the photogs to hoot and holler trying to get her attention to pose for the cameras. She definitely wooed the crowd as a few photogs shouted, "Let me see the back of the dress." Hmm...is that what they only wanted to see. Bad boys on the carpet.


Mary Steenburgen. ©Peter Gonzaga/Nielsen Entertainment News.

Sissy Spacek had her lovely country demeanor while she was accompanied by daughter Shuyler. Veteran actor Robert Duvall looked all stoic as he posed for the cameras. It was a bit funny when one photog kept asking Mr. Duvall to take one step to the side but Duvall just kept looking straight at the photog's camera. Mr. Photog stop complaining, you got a Duvall headshot!


Robert Duvall keeps a straight face. ©Peter Gonzaga/Nielsen Entertainment News.

Unfortunately, lead co-star to Reese, Vince Vaughn was missing in action. Maybe he was looking for that perfect Christmas present.

"Four Christmases" opens November 26, 2008 just in time for Thanksgiving movie going weekend. Take the family!

Check Out The Trailer

Twilight film about to take a bite out of the box office this weekend.

Twilight movie tickets are selling fast. The phenomenon is ready to take a bite out of the box office this weekend. My good friends at movietickets.com have shared with me some of the interesting ticket fun facts about the ticket sales for the film as of November 20, 2008. Check it out!



SELLOUTS

As of 12 p.m. ET today, MovieTickets.com has sold out 896 performances for "Twilight" in North America, including more than 375 yesterday alone.


TOP-15

"Twilight" moved into the No. 14 slot today for MovieTickets.com's Top-15 Presellers of All-Time, one spot ahead of "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" and one behind "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban."


Robert Pattinson has a slight smile as Twilight is about to hit the big screen.

MovieTickets.com Top-15 Pre-Sale List of All-Time

1. Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith

2. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

3. Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King

4. The Dark Knight

5. Hannah Montana & Miley Cyrus: Best of Both Worlds Concert

6. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

7. Matrix Reloaded

8. Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End

9. Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones

10. Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers

11. Sex and the City: The Movie

12. Spider-Man 3

13. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

14. Twilight

15. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone


Paramore's edgy sound heightens the excitement for "Twilight."

Fun Facts about the film "Twilight"

While passing the time for the LA Premiere of "Twilight" to begin the publicity firm handling the premiere, gave us a fun fact sheet to peruse through. I thought I'd share with with all you:


"Twilight" author Stephenie Meyer. ©Pacific Rim Photo Press.

Book Highlights:
• The series of 4 books has sold 25 million copies worldwide. Translation rights have been sold in 37 countries.
• The series is a New York Times Best Seller and has been on the best seller list for 65 weeks. Selected as the New York Times Editor’s Choice.
• On USA Today’s Best Seller list for 103 weeks (TWILIGHT spent 6 weeks at #1).
• BREAKING DAWN, the fourth book in the series and released on August 2, sold 1.3 million books in the first 24 hours.
• For seven straight weeks after BREAKING DAWN was released, all four books in the series were on USA Today’s Top 5 Best Seller List.
• The week BREAKING DAWN was released, TWILIGHT (released in 2005) had its best week ever and sold an additional 120,000 copies.
• After being on the New York Times Best Seller list for 2 weeks, the TWILIGHT MOVIE COMPANION is #1 on the “How To” paperback list.



Online Highlights:
• Recognition of the book has generated over 350 fan sites all over the world, including TwilightLexicon.com & TwilightMoms.com.
• The official film website has received over 11MM views since October.
• The trailers have garnered over 12MM views on MySpace, which is a record.
• TWILIGHT has the most friends on MySpace of any film, second only to X2 (beating both 300 and TRANSFORMERS).
• The debut of the final trailer in the TWILIGHT widget and on MySpace Trailer Park on Thursday, 10/16, generated over 3.5 million views in the first 48 hours,
• There have been over 110,000 adoptions of the TWILIGHT widget.
• TWILIGHT is the #1 most searched movie on IMDb Pro’s MOVIEMeter. Stars Robert Pattinson is #1 on their STARMeter, ranking higher than Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt and Kristen Stewart is #2, higher than Angelina Jolie.
• There was so much response to the TWILIGHT casting photos when they were initially posted, MTV.com’s server crashed. The response was very similar to in numbers to the likes of Harry Potter and Spider-Man franchises.
• When EntertainmentTonight.com posted the second teaser trailer on their website, they received more views than any of their breaking news stories.
• Both Fandango and MovieTickets.com, the two online movie ticketing providers, have each reported over 200 hundred sold-out shows a week before release.


Robert Pattinson plays Edward. ©Pacific Rim Photo Press.


Kristen Stewart is the lovely Bella. ©Pacific Rim Photo Press.

Publicity Highlights:
• Fan base generated thunderous applause and worldwide publicity at Comic-con International – with thousands of eager fans camping out the night before to see the cast and crew present new footage.
• The 1st Entertainment Weekly TWILIGHT Saga cover was the best-selling cover of the year for them, surpassing their Dark Knight and Harry Potter covers.
• The first EW cover was so successful; they did another triple TWILIGHT cover. It is rare for EW to feature the same film twice on their cover.
• In late August, Extra aired their segment from Ashley Greene and Rachelle Lefevre’s H Magazine photo shoot, and it was the second-highest rated show in primetime, next to Ugly Betty. Additionally, they posted the segment to their website and got three times the traffic they get on the Jonas Brothers.
• Vanity Fair featured an entire cast spread in their December issue – one of over 50 magazine features on the film.
• Ticket sales for the Rome International Film Festival sold out in a few hours, prompting festival organizers to add another screening. In Spain, over 1,000 screaming fans tried to get into a presentation at the Sitges Film Festival, more than 3 times the maximum occupancy.


Justin Chon who plays Bella's best friend is the only major Asian American featured in "Twilight." ©Pacific Rim Photo Press.


Paramore is one of the featured acts on the soundtrack of "Twilight." ©Pacific Rim Photo Press.


Cam Gigandet (l) most recent film release before "Twilight" was "Never Back Down" with Sean Faris (r). ©Pacific Rim Photo Press.


Taylor Lautner who plays Jacob had his major film debut with Robert Rodriguez's "Shark Boy and Lava Girl." ©Pacific Rim Photo Press.