Tony Hale and Anna Camp
As the holidays hit, I’m always excited to ninja vanish from the festivities and family arguments to take in a few flicks and cast my votes for Oscar season. Austin Film Festival is behind us now, but it provided some excellent contenders this year and these films aren’t ones you’ll wanna miss.
Desierto kicked off the festival and it had me wondering how any other film was going to best it. It put me on edge and was incredibly fun to watch. This story, set in the unforgiving terrain of the U.S/Mexican border, begins filled with promise. An immigrant played by Gael García Bernal (Motorcycle Diaries) journeys to the U.S to meet his family and turn his life around. It takes a turn when a deranged gunman played by Jeffery Dean Morgan (The Walking Dead) sets his sights on taking justice into his own hands. The two then battle each other and the elements until a final showdown that will put humanity to the test.
Natalie Portman (Black Swan) provides a shaking and stunning portrayal of Jackie Onassis in the wake of her husbands tragic assassination. This movie, which reunites Portman with V For Vendetta cast member John Hurt, is sure to garner a second Oscar nomination for the actress. She plays the former First Lady, known for her stoic and calm demeanor, with anger and fragility, as she quietly breaks down and refuses to camouflage the horrific event that took place. A must see for any history buff, it may be the best portrait of Jackie O to date.
A romantic comedy loosely based on the real life hysteria that ensued after Orson Wells’ broadcast of “War of the World’s” led millions to believe that Earth was being invaded by aliens. A real gem starring Tony Hale (Arrested Development) and Anna Camp (Pitch Perfect 2) that shows how easy it is to conjure up confusion when people feel fear. Best performance, as per his usual, from Dan Bakkedahl (Veep) who plays the faithless priest of the small New Jersey town that goes into a frenzy.
This documentary tells the seemingly unreal tale of James Billie, the godfather of Indian gaming. This larger than life leader of the Seminole Tribe has lived life, enviably, to it’s fullest. From wrestling gators in the everglades to becoming a Grammy nominated vocalist, it’s one of the best narratives of someone you’ve probably never heard of. James Billie’s life is an often heartbreaking story of defeats and triumphs that might bite you right in the bahonkas.
Loving tells the heartbreaking and true story of Richard and Mildred Loving, a biracial couple sentenced to jail for getting married in 1958. The story of their fight to legitimize their love and their children is brought to life by Joel Edgerton (The Gift, 2015) and Ruth Negga (World War Z), who play the couple with a tenderness that will shatter your heart as you watch their journey unfold. Nominations keep pouring in and I’ll be surprised if an Oscar nod isn’t tilted in their direction from this tremendous film.
Is a fun little flick that reinvents the Hughes style teenage romcom in a funny and sensitive way. Written and directed by Kelly Fremon Craig, Edge was hilarious from start to finish. I must say, I’m a bit picky when it comes this format; I expected a lot and it delivered, with amazing performances from Hailee Steinfeld (True Grit) and Woody Harrelson (True Dectective).
We probably won't see a white Christmas in Austin, but don't let that ruin your…
The LINE Austin has unveiled their latest concept, Cantero, a bar that takes mixology to…
The demand for sugar free hard candy is on the rise, especially among those managing…
Thanksgiving in Austin is a time for festive feasting, and there’s no shortage of delightful…
Pursuit Farms has become a beacon for discerning palates seeking the finest Wagyu beef available…
New Orleans, LA - On October 22, 2024, I recently had an opportunity to attend the grand opening of Caesars New Orleans, marking the completion of a stunning $435 million transformation of the former Harrah’s New Orleans. It was an evening to remember, filled with excitement, luxury, and the vibrant spirit of New Orleans. The festivities began on Canal Street with an exhilarating ceremony led by Caesars Entertainment CEO Tom Reeg, President & COO Anthony Carano, and Caesars New Orleans General Manager Samir Mowad. The atmosphere was electric as they joined Caesar himself and an iconic New Orleans second-line band in a lively procession into the casino. It felt like the entire city had come out to celebrate, with Caesars New Orleans team members and Mayor LaToya Cantrell also joining the event to commemorate this historic occasion. Anthony Carano’s pride in introducing Caesars to New Orleans was palpable. “From local favorite Emeril Lagasse to our long-time partner, Chef Nobu, to the beautiful state-of-the-art Caesars Sportsbook, all-new rooms and gaming floor, and of course, our gorgeous new center bar, Octavia, Caesars New Orleans offers something for everyone. It’s a world-class resort in the heart of the Big Easy, and we can’t wait for our guests to experience it,” he said. The ceremony was a spectacle, kicking off with an iconic Mardi Gras float featuring Caesar and his court, and a dazzling firework show that lit up the New Orleans sky. The second-line band then led us revelers into the resort’s elegant center bar, Octavia, where we indulged in a “Taste of Caesars New Orleans.” Each bite from the six on-property restaurants was a delightful journey, capturing the essence of New Orleans’ rich culinary scene. Throughout the night, elemental entertainers, including the Saints Cheer Krewe, Mardi Gras Indians, Zulu Tramps, and showgirls, created an authentic and unforgettable Big Easy experience. Everywhere I turned, there was something new to marvel at, each performance more mesmerizing than the last. Samir Mowad, SVP and GM of Caesars New Orleans, highlighted the significance of the transformation, stating, “This year marks 25 years since we opened in New Orleans, and the completion of this project is the perfect way to usher in a new era with Caesars. Synonymous with the Caesars name, our new resort is pure elegance, and we’re excited to introduce a luxury brand like this to New Orleans. We are extremely grateful for the support of the community, our team members, and our guests as we come to the finish line of this tremendous transformation.” The hotel itself is impressive,…