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Galloway plea for hostage releaseEx-Labour MP George Galloway has appealed for the release of aid worker Margaret Hassan, kidnapped in Iraq.Mrs Hassan, 59, who led Care International operations in Iraq, was abducted in Baghdad on 19 October. Mr Galloway was expelled from the Labour party because of his staunch oppositi... | Mrs Hassan, 59, who led Care International operations in Iraq, was abducted in Baghdad on 19 October.A spokesman later said Mr Galloway had friends in common with Ms Hassan, who he described as a prominent anti-war activist, and that he was "willing to do anything - go to Iraq or be an intermediary or anything that's n... |
Talks aim to avert pension strikeTalks aimed at averting a series of national strikes over pensions reforms will take place this weekend.Five public sector unions will hold private talks with Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott at Labour's spring conference in Gateshead. They want the government to withdraw regulations... | The five unions meeting Mr Prescott want the government to withdraw these regulations.They want the government to withdraw regulations - due to be introduced in weeks - which would raise the pension age for council workers from 60 to 65.It is just weeks before new regulations are introduced to raise the pension age of ... |
Schools to take part in mock pollRecord numbers of schools across the UK are to take part in a mock general election backed by the government.Some 600 schools have already signed up for the Y Vote Mock Elections 2005 run by the Hansard Society and aimed at boosting interest in politics. Pupils in the schools taking par... | Record numbers of schools across the UK are to take part in a mock general election backed by the government.Michael Raftery, project manager at the Hansard Society, said: "The Y Vote Mock Elections for schools mirror the excitement and buzz of a real election, raising awareness of citizenship, and the benefits of acti... |
No to Royal succession shake-upA Labour peer has withdrawn proposals to give female members of the Royal Family the same rights as males.The legislation would have ended the right of male heirs with older sisters to succeed to the Crown. It would also have torn up ancient legislation banning heirs to the throne marryin... | He did not rule out change in the future but said if Lord Dubs' private member's bill was passed by peers, he would urge MPs to oppose it in the Commons.But the government refused to back Lord Dubs' Succession to the Crown Bill, saying it was too complex and raised too many constitutional issues.The changes proposed by... |
Talks aim to avert pension strikeTalks aimed at averting a series of national strikes over pensions reforms will take place this weekend.Five public sector unions will hold private talks with Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott at Labour's spring conference in Gateshead. They want the government to withdraw regulations... | The five unions meeting Mr Prescott want the government to withdraw these regulations.They want the government to withdraw regulations - due to be introduced in weeks - which would raise the pension age for council workers from 60 to 65.It is just weeks before new regulations are introduced to raise the pension age of ... |
Minister defends hunting ban lawThe law banning hunting with dogs in England and Wales is enforceable and "very clear", Alun Michael has said.The rural affairs minister said it would become obvious if people flouted the law, which came into force on Friday, and pretended they were not. Some 270 hunts met legally on Sat... | People had turned out "to show en masse that the Hunting Act was a bad law", he said adding that foxes and other animals had been killed "legally" as far as he was aware.The law banning hunting with dogs in England and Wales is enforceable and "very clear", Alun Michael has said.If people tried to "run circles around t... |
Brown outlines third term visionGordon Brown has outlined what he thinks should be the key themes of New Labour's next general election bid.He said ensuring every child in Britain had the best start in life could be a legacy to match the NHS's creation. The chancellor has previously planned the party's election strateg... | BBC political editor Andrew Marr said that Mr Brown's article was "a warning shot" to Mr Blair not to try and cut him out of the manifesto writing process.Mr Blair argued that under New Labour the country had changed for the better and that was "in part" because of Mr Brown's management of the economy.Mr Blair said a d... |
MP's shock at long lost daughterLabour MP Stephen Pound has told of his shock and his joy on learning he fathered a daughter when he was "out of control" during the "wild" 1960s.Lucy, 36, tracked down Mr Pound after her birth mother told her he was known as "Precious" at school. Despite being told he was a "nutter who ... | Mr Pound, who is now married with two other teenage children, said: "I was a nutter and I was a sailor but I wasn't dead."I was 18 when she was conceived.It was a different time - it was pretty wild."Lucy, 36, tracked down Mr Pound after her birth mother told her he was known as "Precious" at school.He said his first r... |
Ministers deny care sums 'wrong'Ministers have insisted they are committed to free personal care for the elderly despite research suggesting the cost of the policy was under-estimated.A report by the Fraser of Allander Institute says the decision to push ahead with the flagship policy was based on flawed research. Depu... | Ministers have insisted they are committed to free personal care for the elderly despite research suggesting the cost of the policy was under-estimated.But the Scottish National Party called on ministers to reassure people that enough funding is in place to support the free personal care policy."We will look in great d... |
Regiments' group in poll moveA regiments' campaign group is to target nine marginal Labour seats at the General Election.Save the Scottish Regiments will also field a candidate against Armed Forces Minister Adam Ingram in East Kilbride. The group, which is unhappy at defence merger plans, is endorsing opposition candid... | As well as their election move, Save the Scottish Regiments will join other campaigners at a rally in London in the spring.Scotland's only Conservative MP Peter Duncan said the Save the Scottish Regiments had done a "superb job" in fighting against defence cuts.Save the Scottish Regiments will also field a candidate ag... |
Anglers 'could face prosecution'Anglers and fishermen could find themselves prosecuted under plans to crack down on animal cruelty, a committee of MPs has warned.Sloppy wording of the draft animal welfare bill could leave anglers facing court even though it was not intended, the environment select committee said. The M... | The committee also said some legal protections for animals were downgraded by the bill, such as the law on abandonment of animals which "would be significantly weakened".Sloppy wording of the draft animal welfare bill could leave anglers facing court even though it was not intended, the environment select committee sai... |
Budget to set scene for electionGordon Brown will seek to put the economy at the centre of Labour's bid for a third term in power when he delivers his ninth Budget at 1230 GMT. He is expected to stress the importance of continued economic stability, with low unemployment and interest rates. The chancellor is expected t... | - Increase in the stamp duty threshold from £60,000 - A freeze on petrol duty - An extension of tax credit scheme for poorer families - Possible help for pensioners The stamp duty threshold rise is intended to help first time buyers - a likely theme of all three of the main parties' general election manifestos.The chan... |
Plaid MP's cottage arson claimA Plaid Cymru MP believes UK security services were involved in some arson attacks blamed on Welsh extremists.It is 25 years since the start of 12 years of fire-bombings, attributed to a shadowy group known as Meibion Glyndwr. Plaid Cymru's Elfyn Llwyd has suggested the security services c... | But now, as MP for Merionnydd Nant Conwy and Plaid Cymru's Parliamentary Leader, Mr Llwyd has argued that some of the terror attacks may have had the involvement of the security services and not Meibion Glyndwr.Plaid Cymru's Elfyn Llwyd has suggested the security services could have been involved, with the intention of... |
Commons hunt protest chargesEight protesters who stormed the House of Commons chamber during a debate on the Hunting Bill have been charged with disorderly conduct.The men were arrested in September after bursting into the chamber causing a hunting ban debate to be halted. Those charged included Otis Ferry, the 22-year... | They were charged under Section 5 of the Public Order Act, police said."There is no offence of trespassing in the House of Commons - it is not a criminal offence," he said.One of the men, David Redvers, 34, from Hartpury, Gloucestershire, said he and the other seven protesters would plead not guilty to the charges.We a... |
Protect whistleblowers, TUC saysThe government should change the law to give more protection to employees who raise health and safety concerns about their workplaces, the TUC has said.It said data from employment tribunals suggested 1,500 "safety whistleblowers" had lost their jobs since 1999. Some firms found it cheap... | The Health and Safety Executive said it was trying to get workers more involved in helping to make workplaces safer.The TUC has called on the government to appoint "roving" safety reps and to increase spending on health and safety work inspections.The Health and Safety Executive had said that it had launched an initiat... |
Labour's core support takes stockTony Blair has told Labour supporters he's "back" and still hungry for the job of prime minister - but does that sum up the mood at the party's spring conference in Gateshead?"The electorate are keener on the government than some Labour Party members," is the dry assessment of Graham La... | Mr Telford agreed, but added it was becoming increasingly difficult to think of an answer when people asked "What has Labour done for the North East?"Katrina Bull, a prospective parliamentary candidate said Mr Blair had shown he could rouse the party's grassroots: "I think if every voter was able to spend time in a roo... |
Tories leave door open for ArcherThe Conservative Party would deal "sympathetically" with any application by disgraced peer Lord Archer to rejoin its ranks, its co-chairman has said.Dr Liam Fox told BBC One's Breakfast with Frost programme there was no place for "vindictiveness" in politics. Lord Archer spent two years... | The Conservative Party would deal "sympathetically" with any application by disgraced peer Lord Archer to rejoin its ranks, its co-chairman has said.Dr Fox was asked if he would say yes or no if Lord Archer applied to rejoin.Lord Archer, who was not available for comment, remains a popular figure among constituency Tor... |
Eurovision 'greats' to do battleStars of the Eurovision Song Contest from the show's 50-year history are to compete against each other to celebrate the contest's anniversary.Viewers will choose 14 past songs to be performed by the original artists or others in the spirit of the originals. Past Eurovision performers inc... | Stars of the Eurovision Song Contest from the show's 50-year history are to compete against each other to celebrate the contest's anniversary.The 50th anniversary special will be held in Denmark later this year because the Danish Broadcasting Corporation came up with the idea for the all-time contest.The 50th annual co... |
Hundreds vie for best film OscarA total of 267 films are eligible for the best film Oscar but only five will be chosen to go forward as nominees.The Academy of Motion Picture, Arts and Sciences has sent out the first ballot papers with the full list of films vying for recognition. Among those expected to receive nomina... | A total of 267 films are eligible for the best film Oscar but only five will be chosen to go forward as nominees.To be eligible for nomination a film must have been shown in a commercial theatre for seven consecutive days before the deadline of 31 December.The Academy of Motion Picture, Arts and Sciences has sent out t... |
Animation charms Japan box officeOscar-winning director Hayao Miyazaki's latest film has set a new Japanese box office record, with 1.5bn yen ($14.3m) in two days, according to reports.Howl's Moving Castle is the follow-up to Miyazaki's Spirited Away, which won best animation at last year's Oscars. It is based on the c... | It has registered the highest opening weekend takings of any Japanese film in the country, according to trade publication Screen Daily.The film won the Golden Osella for outstanding technical contribution at this year's Venice Film Festival.Oscar-winning director Hayao Miyazaki's latest film has set a new Japanese box ... |
Angels 'favourite funeral song'Angels by Robbie Williams is the song Britons would most like played at their funeral, a survey has suggested.While the melancholy hit topped the UK poll, Europeans favoured Queen's more upbeat anthem The Show Must Go On as their first choice. Frank Sinatra's My Way was second in the UK v... | Queen's Who Wants to Live Forever was highly favoured by both UK and European voters.While the melancholy hit topped the UK poll, Europeans favoured Queen's more upbeat anthem The Show Must Go On as their first choice.Frank Sinatra's My Way was second in the UK vote with Monty Python's Always Look on the Bright Side of... |
Duran Duran show set for US TVChart stars Duran Duran are to appear in a VH1 special in the US including interviews and concert footage.The show airs on Tuesday and will feature a studio performance, behind the scenes footage and fan interviews. "They seemed like a perfect fit with our audience," said Rick Krim, VH1's ... | We just really wanted to make a great Duran Duran album," said keyboard player Nick Rhodes.Chart stars Duran Duran are to appear in a VH1 special in the US including interviews and concert footage.Simon Le Bon said earlier this year that the group were not trying to update their sound too much.Le Bon also said the five... |
Aviator and Vera take Bafta gloryHollywood blockbuster The Aviator and low-budget British movie Vera Drake have shared the main honours at the 2005 Bafta film awards. The Aviator was declared best film, and its star Cate Blanchett won best supporting actress. But Vera Drake scored best director for Mike Leigh while Ime... | But Vera Drake scored best director for Mike Leigh while Imelda Staunton took the hotly contested best actress award.Best British film was My Summer of Love, the story of two young women and their developing relationship, while Foxx's movie Ray, a bio-pic of late singer Ray Charles, also took best sound.The Aviator was... |
Grammys honour soul star CharlesThe memory of soul legend Ray Charles dominated the music world's leading music ceremony on Sunday as he was given eight posthumous Grammy Awards.Charles, who died in 2004, got honours including record and album of the year, while Alicia Keys and actor Jamie Foxx performed a musical trib... | His song Here We Go Again with Norah Jones won record of the year and best pop vocal collaboration, while Heaven Help Us All with Gladys Knight picked up best gospel performance.Vertigo by rock giants U2 won three trophies - best rock song, best short video and best rock vocal performance by a duo or group.Rod Stewart ... |
Oscars race enters final furlongThe race for the Oscars entered its final stages as the deadline for voters to choose their winners passed.The 5,808 Academy voters had until Tuesday afternoon to return their ballots - any late submissions will not be included in the count. The next five days will be spent counting the ... | The only people who will know the Oscar winners before they are revealed at the ceremony will be the auditors who are in charge of looking after the ballot count."We have had rain up until the day before the show many times, but for some reason the Oscar gods always shine on Sunday and we hope they will do so again thi... |
Rapper 50 Cent scores chart firstRapper 50 Cent has become the first solo artist to have three singles in the US top five in the same week.His track Candy Shop remained at the top of the charts, while Disco Inferno crept up from six to five. 50 Cent also appears on rap protege The Game's song How We do, number four in ... | Rapper 50 Cent has become the first solo artist to have three singles in the US top five in the same week.Newcomer The Game's debut reached the top of the charts five weeks ago, while 50 Cent's second collection The Masscre was released in the US at the end of last week.Last May, R&B star Usher scored a chart first, wi... |
Springer criticises Opera musicalTalk show host Jerry Springer, whose programme inspired the controversial opera shown by the BBC, has said he would not have written it himself.The BBC received 47,000 complaints before the musical was broadcast, and protesters demonstrated outside BBC buildings across the UK. Springer ... | Talk show host Jerry Springer, whose programme inspired the controversial opera shown by the BBC, has said he would not have written it himself."You know, on our TV show if people use inappropriate language we bleep it out, if there's nudity we cover it up, so that viewers at home don't get to see any of this," he said... |
US 'to raise TV indecency fines'US politicians are proposing a tough new law aimed at cracking down on indecency and bad language on US TV.Fines of up to $500,000 (£266,582) could be imposed each time broadcasters transmit nudity or profanities. The proposal, unveiled in the House of Representatives, also seeks to revo... | Last year's Janet Jackson 'wardrobe malfunction' encouraged the FCC to impose tougher rules, but the US Congress adjourned last year without agreeing on a new level of fines.Entertainers could also be liable for fines under the proposed legisation from both US politcians and officials from the Federal Communications Co... |
Godzilla gets Hollywood fame starMovie monster Godzilla has received a star on Hollywood's Walk of Fame, honouring both his 50th birthday and the launch of his 28th film.An actor dressed as the giant creature breathed smoke over photographers on Monday as Godzilla received the 2,271st star on Hollywood Boulevard. "Godz... | "Godzilla should thank you for this historical and monumental star," said Final Wars producer Shogo Tomiyama.And producer Shogo Tomiyama added: "So long as Godzilla can fascinate people, I believe he will be resurrected by new generations of filmmakers in the future."Hollywood's honorary mayor, Johnny Grant, said: "I d... |
Church urges Nelly show boycottChurch ministers are trying to prevent rapper Nelly performing in Arkansas, saying they do not want his "vile and filthy lyrics" in their town.More than 20 Jonesboro ministers urged music fans to boycott Nelly's 12 March concert at Arkansas State University in a bid to have it cancelled. ... | "Tear the tickets up," Mr Rodgers said.Tim Dean, director of the Arkansas State University venue, said ticket sales had been brisk.But a venue spokesman said more than 5,500 tickets had been sold so far.Mr Rodgers, of the Fullness of Joy Church, said he was concerned about the rapper's lyrics that include references to... |
Goodrem wins top female MTV prizePop singer Delta Goodrem has scooped one of the top individual prizes at the first Australian MTV Music Awards.The 21-year-old singer won the award for best female artist, with Australian Idol runner-up Shannon Noll taking the title of best male at the ceremony. Goodrem, known in both B... | As well as best female, Goodrem also took home the Pepsi Viewers Choice Award, whilst Green Day bagged the prize for best rock video for American Idiot.Goodrem, Green Day and the Black Eyed Peas took home two awards each.Other winners included Green Day, voted best group, and the Black Eyed Peas.The 21-year-old singer ... |
Top gig award for Scissor SistersNew York band Scissor Sisters have won a gig of the year award for their performance at this year's V Festival.The award was voted for by listeners of Virgin Radio, which compiled a top 10 which was mostly dominated by newcomers on the music scene this year. The quirky disco-rock band b... | New York band Scissor Sisters have won a gig of the year award for their performance at this year's V Festival.The award was voted for by listeners of Virgin Radio, which compiled a top 10 which was mostly dominated by newcomers on the music scene this year.Glasgow's Franz Ferdinand earned a place at number nine for th... |
US charity anthem is re-releasedWe Are The World, the American charity anthem inspired by the success of Band Aid, has been re-issued to raise money for Aids research and tsunami victims.More than 40 stars sang as group USA For Africa, including Lionel Richie, Diana Ross, Ray Charles, Bob Dylan, Michael Jackson and Bru... | It has been re-issued as part of a two-disc DVD set, which will also feature footage from the recording session of the track in January 1985.It topped the charts in the US and UK, raising millions of dollars for African famine relief.The single was originally released in the US on 7 March 1985 and sold 800,000 copies i... |
Film row over Pirates 'cannibals'Plans to portray Dominica's Carib Indians as cannibals in the sequel to hit film Pirates of the Caribbean have been criticised by the group's chief.Carib Chief Charles Williams said talks with Disney's producers revealed there was "a strong element of cannibalism in the script which can... | Carib Chief Charles Williams said talks with Disney's producers revealed there was "a strong element of cannibalism in the script which cannot be removed".The Caribbean island's government said Disney planned to film in Dominica.Plans to portray Dominica's Carib Indians as cannibals in the sequel to hit film Pirates of... |
Stars pay tribute to actor DavisHollywood stars including Spike Lee, Burt Reynolds and Oscar nominee Alan Alda have paid tribute to actor Ossie Davis at a funeral in New York.Veteran star Ossie Davis, a well-known civil rights activist, died in Miami at the age of 87 on 4 February 2005. Friends and family, including ac... | "Ossie was my hero, and he still is," said Aviator star Alan Alda, a family friend for over forty years.Hollywood stars including Spike Lee, Burt Reynolds and Oscar nominee Alan Alda have paid tribute to actor Ossie Davis at a funeral in New York.Veteran star Ossie Davis, a well-known civil rights activist, died in Mia... |
Tautou 'to star in Da Vinci film'French actress Audrey Tautou, star of hit film Amelie, will play the female lead in the film adaptation of The Da Vinci Code, it has been reported.The movie version of Dan Brown's best-selling novel is being directed by Ron Howard and also stars Tom Hanks. Tautou will play Hanks' code-c... | French actress Audrey Tautou, star of hit film Amelie, will play the female lead in the film adaptation of The Da Vinci Code, it has been reported.The movie version of Dan Brown's best-selling novel is being directed by Ron Howard and also stars Tom Hanks.Jeunet was also responsible for directing Tautou in Amelie in 20... |
Lee to create new film superheroComic book veteran Stan Lee is to team up with producer Robert Evans to create a movie featuring a new superhero.Foreverman will focus on a character who has to face problems in everyday life as well as using his special powers to save the world. Paramount Pictures, the studio behind the... | A third Spider-Man film is scheduled for release in 2007.Paramount Pictures, the studio behind the film, have revealed few details about the project but say it has the potential to spawn a series of films.Comic book veteran Stan Lee is to team up with producer Robert Evans to create a movie featuring a new superhero.Ho... |
Rapper Jay-Z becomes label bossRap star Jay-Z is to become a record company executive after being put in charge of one of hip-hop's most influential labels, Def Jam.Jay-Z, who said he would make no more music after 2003's The Black Album, will become the company's president and chief executive from January. Def Jam's p... | Jay-Z, real name Shawn Carter, said: "I have inherited two of the most important brands in hip-hop, Def Jam and Roc-A-Fella.Rap star Jay-Z is to become a record company executive after being put in charge of one of hip-hop's most influential labels, Def Jam.Antonio "LA" Reid, chairman of The Island Def Jam Music Group,... |
Queen recruit singer for new tourThe remaining members of rock band Queen are to go on tour next year with former Free and Bad Company singer Paul Rodgers taking Freddie Mercury's place.Guitarist Brian May has said he expects to be on the road with Rodgers and drummer Roger Taylor from April. May said: "Suddenly the Qu... | The remaining members of rock band Queen are to go on tour next year with former Free and Bad Company singer Paul Rodgers taking Freddie Mercury's place.Guitarist Brian May has said he expects to be on the road with Rodgers and drummer Roger Taylor from April.May said: "Suddenly the Queen Phoenix is rising again from t... |
Spider-Man creator wins profitsSpider-Man creator Stan Lee is to get a multi-million dollar windfall after winning a court battle with comic book company Marvel.A judge has upheld Lee's demand for 10% of Marvel's profits from the hugely successful Spider-Man films. Spider-Man and its sequel made $1.6bn (£857m) at box o... | The New York court did not rule on Lee's claims to a share of profits from some Spider-Man and Hulk movie merchandise, which will be decided at a future trial, Marvel said.Spider-Man creator Stan Lee is to get a multi-million dollar windfall after winning a court battle with comic book company Marvel.US District Court ... |
Johnny Depp: The acting outlawJohnny Depp, whose latest role was Peter Pan creator JM Barrie in Finding Neverland, is celebrated as one of Hollywood's most maverick talents. Depp has become an unlikely major star, given his preference for taking dark and idiosyncratic roles instead of surefire box office hits. He has h... | He played a much more serious, sensitive role in his next major film, Donnie Brasco, where he portrayed an undercover cop infiltrating a mafia ring.But it was TV that first made Depp a star.Johnny Depp, whose latest role was Peter Pan creator JM Barrie in Finding Neverland, is celebrated as one of Hollywood's most mave... |
Uganda bans Vagina MonologuesUganda's authorities have banned the play The Vagina Monologues, due to open in the capital, Kampala this weekend.The Ugandan Media Council said the performance would not be put on as it promoted and glorified acts such as lesbianism and homosexuality. It said the production could go ahead ... | She said the play is being produced and performed by Ugandan women and it is not being forced on them.But the organisers of the play say it raises awareness of sexual abuse against women."The play promotes illegal, unnatural sexual acts, homosexuality and prostitution, it should be and is hereby banned," the council's ... |
Carry On star Patsy Rowlands diesActress Patsy Rowlands, known to millions for her roles in the Carry On films, has died at the age of 71.Rowlands starred in nine of the popular Carry On films, alongside fellow regulars Sid James, Kenneth Williams and Barbara Windsor. She also carved out a successful television career,... | She made her first Carry On film in 1969 where she appeared in Carry On Again Doctor.She also appeared in Carry On at your Convenience, Carry On Matron and Carry On Loving, as well as others.Rowlands played the hard-done-by wife or the put-upon employee as a regular Carry On star.Actress Patsy Rowlands, known to millio... |
Fockers fuel festive film chartComedy Meet The Fockers topped the festive box office in North America, setting a new record for Christmas Day.The sequel took $44.7m (£23.2m) between 24 and 26 December, according to studio estimates. It took $19.1m (£9.9m) on Christmas Day alone, the highest takings on that day in box o... | It took $19.1m (£9.9m) on Christmas Day alone, the highest takings on that day in box office history.Comedy Meet The Fockers topped the festive box office in North America, setting a new record for Christmas Day.Despite the success of Meet The Fockers, takings were down 26.5% on 2003's figures - which was blamed on Chr... |
Casino Royale is next Bond movieCasino Royale, author Ian Fleming's first James Bond book, is to be the next Bond film, with Goldeneye director Martin Campbell behind the camera.It will be the 21st James Bond film to hit the big screen, and speculation has been rife over who will play the lead. Casino Royale was turned... | Casino Royale, author Ian Fleming's first James Bond book, is to be the next Bond film, with Goldeneye director Martin Campbell behind the camera.Producers say no decision has yet been made on who will become the seventh actor, including Niven, to play Bond on film.It will be the 21st James Bond film to hit the big scr... |
Ocean's Twelve raids box officeOcean's Twelve, the crime caper sequel starring George Clooney, Brad Pitt and Julia Roberts, has gone straight to number one in the US box office chart.It took $40.8m (£21m) in weekend ticket sales, according to studio estimates. The sequel follows the master criminals as they try to pull... | Ocean's Twelve, the crime caper sequel starring George Clooney, Brad Pitt and Julia Roberts, has gone straight to number one in the US box office chart.The sequel narrowly beat its 2001 predecessor, Ocean's Eleven which took $38.1m (£19.8m) on its opening weekend and $184m (£95.8m) in total.A remake of the 1960s film, ... |
Hanks greeted at wintry premiereHollywood star Tom Hanks was in London's Leicester Square for the UK premiere of Polar Express.The West End landmark was turned into a festive landscape complete with snow and carol singers to celebrate the arrival of the animated film. "This is Leicester Square like you've never seen it... | Hollywood star Tom Hanks was in London's Leicester Square for the UK premiere of Polar Express.Hanks said that the new film has an "elegant message"."This is Leicester Square like you've never seen it before," said Hanks, who plays five roles in the movie."I believe in the spirit of Christmas and I think that's embodie... |
Mutant book wins Guardian prizeA book about the evolution of mutants and the science of abnormality has won the Guardian First Book Award 2004.Armand Marie Leroi, a lecturer at London's Imperial College, scooped the £10,000 prize for Mutants: On the form, varieties and errors of the human body. "It is profoundly cultur... | "What we found so impressive about Armand Marie Leroi's book was the scope of its reference, its elegance and its inquisitiveness," said Ms Armistead, chair of the judges and the Guardian literary editor.A book about the evolution of mutants and the science of abnormality has won the Guardian First Book Award 2004.The ... |
The comic book genius of Stan LeeStan Lee, the man responsible for a string of comic superheroes that have become household names, has won a court battle for a slice of the profits from the hit Spider-Man movies.Many marvel at the man who gave his characters extraordinary powers and everyday headaches - a formula which... | By the time he was 40, Lee had decided he was too old for the comic game.Without immediately knowing it, Stan Lee had ushered in the golden age of comics, and his imagination was rekindled.Spider-Man was born.Stan Lee, the man responsible for a string of comic superheroes that have become household names, has won a cou... |
Lit Idol begins search for authorThe second Pop Idol-style search for literary talent has begun with the help of the brother of Simon Cowell.Writer Tony Cowell is among the judges who will hear aspiring writers read their work aloud. The winner gets a deal with literary agency Curtis Brown. "I'm not going to be the Mr ... | Writer Tony Cowell is among the judges who will hear aspiring writers read their work aloud.The final five will then have to read their work in front of judging panel."It's very, very hard to find an agent and extremely difficult, without an agent, to get a publisher to look at your work," said Cowell.The winner gets a... |
Controversial film tops festivalA controversial film starring Hollywood actor Kevin Bacon as a convicted paedophile won top honours at the London Film Festival on Thursday.The Woodsman won the Satyajit Ray Award, named after the Indian director. The low-budget film, directed by Nicole Kassell, is about a convicted chil... | A controversial film starring Hollywood actor Kevin Bacon as a convicted paedophile won top honours at the London Film Festival on Thursday.British writer-director Amma Asante won the UK Film Talent Award this year for her debut feature A Way Of Life.Also on Thursday night, the Fipresci International Critics Awards wen... |
US TV cuts nudity from BBC filmA US TV network is editing BBC Films' Dirty War to avoid showing the front of a nude woman being scrubbed down after a fictional chemical attack.It is not worth showing "non-essential" nude scenes when indecency complaints are "aggressively pursued" by US TV watchdogs, said PBS' Jacoba At... | It is not worth showing "non-essential" nude scenes when indecency complaints are "aggressively pursued" by US TV watchdogs, said PBS' Jacoba Atlas.A US TV network is editing BBC Films' Dirty War to avoid showing the front of a nude woman being scrubbed down after a fictional chemical attack.Ms Atlas said PBS could put... |
India to deport Bollywood actressIndia has ordered the deportation of Iranian-born model and actress Negar Khan to Norway after saying she was working illegally on her visa.Khan has had raunchy roles in music videos and Bollywood films over the past two years. The distressed actress told media she was being driven stra... | India has ordered the deportation of Iranian-born model and actress Negar Khan to Norway after saying she was working illegally on her visa."She was on a visitor's visa but she has engaged in several commercial ventures," he said."We issued notices last year, in view of which she had gone back to Norway, but she has re... |
Pop band Busted to 'take a break'Chart-topping pop band Busted have confirmed that they plan to "take a break", following rumours that they were on the verge of splitting.A statement from the band's record company Universal said frontman Charlie Simpson planned to spend some time working with his other band, Fightstar.... | Chart-topping pop band Busted have confirmed that they plan to "take a break", following rumours that they were on the verge of splitting.A statement from the band's record company Universal said frontman Charlie Simpson planned to spend some time working with his other band, Fightstar.However, recent rumours have sugg... |
Veteran comic Cyril Fletcher diesVeteran comedian and broadcaster Cyril Fletcher has died aged 91 at his home in Guernsey.Fletcher will be remembered for his "odd odes" and amusing misprints on TV show That's Life in the 1970s and 80s, as well as a long variety career. He was also a regular on Does the Team Think?, a c... | "He was greatly loved by the public," she said."He was funny and witty to work with.That's Life host Esther Rantzen said he was "so lovely" and a "delight" to work with.Fletcher was described as a "consummate professional" by his friend and fellow broadcaster Michael Pointon.As a friend, he was very kind, and generous.... |
Fry set for role in Hitchhiker'sActor Stephen Fry is joining the cast of the forthcoming film adaptation of The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy.Fry will provide the voice of The Guide, an electronic book which accompanies the story's hero Arthur Dent on his travels around the galaxy. Martin Freeman, John Malkovich, Bi... | Fry will provide the voice of The Guide, an electronic book which accompanies the story's hero Arthur Dent on his travels around the galaxy.Actor Stephen Fry is joining the cast of the forthcoming film adaptation of The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy."Being asked to do the voice of The Guide is like having your birth... |
Indie film nominations announcedMike Leigh's award-winning abortion drama Vera Drake has scooped seven nominations at this year's British Independent Film Awards.But the Venice winner faces stiff competition from Shane Meadows' critically acclaimed Dead Man's Shoes, which received eight nominations. Also in the running... | Considine is also nominated for a best supporting actor award for My Summer of Love.Joining Vera Drake and Dead Man's Shoes in the running for best film are My Summer of Love, climbing documentary Touching the Void and zombie comedy Shaun of the Dead.Shane Meadows and Kevin McDonald, both former winners of the Douglas ... |
Shark Tale DVD is US best-sellerOscar-nominated animation Shark Tale has raked in $80m (£42.4m) in the first week of its US DVD release becoming the year's best-selling home video so far.The tally for its DVD and video sales soared past the film's opening week US box office takings of $56m (£29.7m). Shark Tale is now t... | Oscar-nominated animation Shark Tale has raked in $80m (£42.4m) in the first week of its US DVD release becoming the year's best-selling home video so far.Shark Tale is now the sixth-highest earning DVD for first week sales.The tally for its DVD and video sales soared past the film's opening week US box office takings ... |
Rap feud in 50 Cent's G-Unit crewUS rap star 50 Cent has said he has thrown protege The Game out of his G-Unit gang in a feud that has apparently involved two shootings.In a radio interview on Monday, 50 Cent said the newcomer was disloyal in conflicts with other rappers. A man was shot in the thigh outside New York's ... | A man was shot in the thigh outside New York's Hot 97 studios while 50 Cent was on air.When 50 Cent appeared on the same station two days later, he said The Game was no longer a member of G-Unit.50 Cent appeared on The Game's debut album, which was number one in the US.In a radio interview on Monday, 50 Cent said the n... |
Women in film 'are earning less'Women in the UK film industry earn less than their male counterparts despite being better qualified, according to a study released on Wednesday.Only 16% of women earn more than £50,000, compared with 30% of men. Women make up a third of the workforce. The research was carried out jointly... | The study, which claims to be the most in-depth so far conducted, found 60% of women in the film industry hold degrees, compared with 39% of men.It also found that women in the industry were less likely than men to be married or have dependant children.Only 16% of women earn more than £50,000, compared with 30% of men.... |
Show over for MTV's The OsbournesRock star Ozzy Osbourne has said his family will not make any more episodes of reality TV show The Osbournes."At the end of it I didn't like having cameras around the house all the time," the Black Sabbath singer told reporters at the MTV Europe Awards in Rome. His wife Sharon, who also... | Rock star Ozzy Osbourne has said his family will not make any more episodes of reality TV show The Osbournes.Ozzy Osbourne said he had had enough of the work involved in making the series.His wife Sharon, who also appears in the popular MTV show based on the Osbournes' family life, agreed.She was the driving force behi... |
Bollywood draws global starsBritish actress Antonia Bernath is making her debut in Kisna - the Warrior Poet, marking a growing trend for non-Indian stars to appear in Bollywood films.Directed by Bollywood veteran Subhash Ghai, the film is set in the British Raj and Bernath plays an army general's daughter who falls in ... | British actress Antonia Bernath is making her debut in Kisna - the Warrior Poet, marking a growing trend for non-Indian stars to appear in Bollywood films.Directed by Bollywood veteran Subhash Ghai, the film is set in the British Raj and Bernath plays an army general's daughter who falls in love with a rural boy, Kisna... |
Briton wins short film OscarThree of the five nominees in the live-action short film category at this year's Oscars were British. For Andrea Arnold, who won the category, Ashvin Kumar and Gary McKendry the past month has thrust them from relative obscurity into the limelight.Arnold's gritty drama Wasp is about a single... | "The other nominees said they made their films for this reason or that - they had something to say."I felt so privileged to have a thousand people watching my film on the biggest screen I've ever seen," says Arnold.I'm overwhelmed by all the fuss," she said.Three of the five nominees in the live-action short film categ... |
Spears seeks aborted tour paymentSinger Britney Spears is suing eight insurance companies that have refused to reimburse her for cancelling her 2004 world tour.The pop star cancelled her Onyx Hotel tour last June after suffering a knee injury during a video shoot. She is now seeking to be reimbursed for the tour's £5m ... | The pop star cancelled her Onyx Hotel tour last June after suffering a knee injury during a video shoot.The Onyx Hotel tour was cited as "a highly crafted production which included the well-known music and dancing of Spears, supported by elaborate costumes, complex choreography as well as cutting-edge video production,... |
Oasis star fined for German brawlOasis singer Liam Gallagher has been fined 50,000 euros (£35,000) after a fight in a German hotel two years ago.Gallagher was arrested along with drummer Alan White and three other members of the band's entourage after the brawl in Munich in December 2002. The band said they were victim... | The fight continued outside, where "one of the officers was kicked in the chest with full force by Liam Gallagher... and suffered minor injuries", they said.But police said Gallagher kicked an officer in the chest and had large amounts of alcohol and drugs - possibly cocaine - in his blood.Gallagher lost two front teet... |
T in the Park sells out in daysTickets for Scotland's biggest music festival have sold out in record time, five months before the event is held.The 12th annual T in the Park festival, which takes place at Balado near Kinross in July, sold out just four days after the line-up was announced. Green Day, the Foo Fighters a... | Green Day, the Foo Fighters and Keane are among the acts that had already been lined up to appear at the event.Geoff Ellis, CEO of festival organisers Big Day Out Ltd, said this year's event promises to be the best yet.Last year tickets sold out 10 weeks before the festival but organisers confirmed that all 130,000 for... |
Poppins musical gets flying startThe stage adaptation of children's film Mary Poppins has had its opening night in London's West End.Sir Cameron Mackintosh's lavish production, which has cost £9m to bring to the stage, was given a 10-minute standing ovation. Lead actress Laura Michelle Kelly soared over the heads of th... | Mary Poppins was originally created by author Pamela Travers, who is said to have cried when she saw Disney's 1964 film starring Julie Andrews.The stage adaptation of children's film Mary Poppins has had its opening night in London's West End.Sir Cameron Mackintosh's lavish production, which has cost £9m to bring to th... |
Sir Paul rocks Super Bowl crowdsSir Paul McCartney wowed fans with a live mini-concert at American football's Super Bowl - and avoided any Janet Jackson-style controversies.The 62-year-old sang Hey Jude and other Beatles songs in a 12-minute set at half-time during the game in Florida. Last year, Jackson exposed a brea... | Organisers were widely considered to be playing it safe this year by booking 62-year-old Sir Paul for his second Super Bowl show.After the controversy last year - which saw CBS fined a record $550,000 (£292,000) by federal regulators - Super Bowl organisers had turned to producer Don Mischer to oversee this year's half... |
Children vote Shrek 2 best filmYoung UK film fans voted animated Hollywood hit Shrek 2 best film at the children's Bafta awards on Sunday.More than 6,000 children voted in the only category chosen by fans. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, runner-up in the poll, was the choice of the Bafta experts who named it ... | Young UK film fans voted animated Hollywood hit Shrek 2 best film at the children's Bafta awards on Sunday.Debbie Isitt won the award for best adapted writer for her work with Jacqueline Wilson's The Illustrated Mum, which won the award for best schools drama.Former Playschool presenter Floella Benjamin was awarded the... |
Sundance to honour foreign filmsInternational films will be given the same prominence as US films at next year's Sundance Film Festival, with movies dominated by the theme of war.The independent film festival will feature two new international cinema competitions, during its 20-30 January season in Utah. Forty-two film... | The independent film festival will feature two new international cinema competitions, during its 20-30 January season in Utah.International films will be given the same prominence as US films at next year's Sundance Film Festival, with movies dominated by the theme of war.Twelve films competing in the new world cinema ... |
CSI shows give 'unrealistic view'People have unrealistic expectations of forensic science thanks to the success of the CSI TV shows, real experts say.Evidence submitted to forensic labs has shot up as a result of the programmes, at a time when many have large backlogs, science investigators claim. Lawyers also fear the... | "The CSI effect is basically the perception of the near-infallibility of forensic science in response to the TV show," said Max Houck, who runs a forensic science graduate course at West Virginia University, US.Dr Houck added that there was an urgent need for better funding of forensic science at the university level: ... |
Willis sues over movie 'injury'Actor Bruce Willis is suing Revolution Studios over an injury he said he suffered while making Tears of the Sun.Willis is seeking medical expenses after he said he was hit in the head by a firework during the filming of the 2002 movie, produced by the firm. The lawsuit said the star has e... | Actor Bruce Willis is suing Revolution Studios over an injury he said he suffered while making Tears of the Sun.The lawsuit said Willis has endured "extreme mental, physical and emotional pain and suffering."The lawsuit said the star has endured mental and physical injuries as a result of the alleged incident.While Wil... |
Mumbai bombs movie postponedThe release of a film about the Mumbai (Bombay) blasts in 1993 has been postponed following protests by those on trial for the bombings.Investigating the blasts which killed more than 250 people and wounded 1,000, the film Black Friday had been due to open across India on Friday. But 36 peop... | The release of a film about the Mumbai (Bombay) blasts in 1993 has been postponed following protests by those on trial for the bombings.But 36 people accused in connection with the blasts said it should not be screened until the trial is over.Their lawyer, Majeed Memon, said: "We had argued that how can a film say it i... |
Jackson film 'absolute disaster'A PR expert has told the Michael Jackson child abuse trial that the TV documentary at the heart of the case was an "absolute disaster".Ann Kite told the court in the Californian town of Santa Maria she was hired to "crisis manage" the fallout after the programme had aired in 2003. Jurors... | Ms Kite said that an additional problem was the release of documents relating to a previous allegation of child abuse against Mr Jackson.Ms Kite began to work for Mr Jackson in February 2003, after the controversial film was televised in the US and Europe.Ms Kite said she received a phone call on 13 February 2003 from ... |
Dame Julie pops in to see PoppinsMary Poppins star Dame Julie Andrews watched the hit stage version of her classic film at a charity performance in London's West End.It was the first time Dame Julie, who shot to fame as the nanny in the 1964 Disney movie, had seen the musical, staged at the Prince Edward Theatre. She w... | But Kelly said she was "very nervous" about meeting Dame Julie because she was "my absolute hero".Mary Poppins star Dame Julie Andrews watched the hit stage version of her classic film at a charity performance in London's West End.It was the first time Dame Julie, who shot to fame as the nanny in the 1964 Disney movie,... |
Slater to star in Broadway playActor Christian Slater is stepping into the role of Tom in the Broadway revival of The Glass Menagerie.Slater, 35, is replacing actor Dallas Roberts in the Tennessee Williams drama, which opens next month. No reason was given for Roberts' departure. The role will be played by understudy J... | Actor Christian Slater is stepping into the role of Tom in the Broadway revival of The Glass Menagerie.The role will be played by understudy Joey Collins until Slater joins the show.Slater, 35, is replacing actor Dallas Roberts in the Tennessee Williams drama, which opens next month.Slater won rave reviews for his rece... |
Britney attacks 'false tabloids'Pop star Britney Spears has attacked "false" and "desperate" US tabloid magazines, questioning their honesty after they reported she was pregnant.In a letter on her website, the singer named celebrity tabloids Us Weekly, In Touch and Star as the worst offenders. "Until you face what is g... | Pop star Britney Spears has attacked "false" and "desperate" US tabloid magazines, questioning their honesty after they reported she was pregnant.Spears claimed that other magazines were approached with the pictures but chose to contact her instead.In a letter on her website, the singer named celebrity tabloids Us Week... |
Ethnic producers 'face barriers'Minority ethnic led (Mel) production companies face barriers in succeeding in the film and television industries, research has suggested.The study, commissioned by Pact and the UK Film Council, included interviews with industry experts and individuals. They indicated that career progress... | Minority ethnic led (Mel) production companies face barriers in succeeding in the film and television industries, research has suggested.The research indicated that about 10% of independent production companies in the UK are minority ethnic led.The research recommended that minority ethnic led companies could benefit f... |
UK debut for Kevin Spacey movieHollywood stars Kevin Spacey and Kate Bosworth attended the British premiere of new film, Beyond the Sea, in London's Leicester Square on Thursday.Spacey, 45, wrote, directed and starred in the film, inspired by the life of 1950s croooner Bobby Darin. "This is my tribute to someone I thin... | "Bobby Darin was one of the greatest entertainers the world has ever known, and yet, because he died young, he's been kind of forgotten," said Spacey at the premiere.Spacey, 45, wrote, directed and starred in the film, inspired by the life of 1950s croooner Bobby Darin."This is my tribute to someone I think was a remar... |
Van Gogh festival film withdrawnMurdered director Theo van Gogh's controversial film Submission has been pulled from the Rotterdam Film Festival because of security fears.It was one of three of his works to be shown as part of a freedom of expression event in tribute to the late film-maker's life. The film is critical ... | Murdered director Theo van Gogh's controversial film Submission has been pulled from the Rotterdam Film Festival because of security fears.The festival opens with the French film The 10th District Court, Moments of Trials made by Raymond Depardon.Two of Van Gogh's other films will be shown as planned, including the the... |
Charity single for quake reliefSingers including Sir Cliff Richard and Boy George are recording a charity single to help raise funds for victims of the Asian tsunami.They hope the song will raise more than £2m for the relief fund. The song, titled Grief Never Grows Old and described as a melancholy ballad, was written ... | He said the song was a slow ballad and would work with around 10 singers, rather than a "sing-along" like the Band Aid 20 single raising money for famine relief in Africa.They hope the song will raise more than £2m for the relief fund.Read wrote the song before the Boxing Day tragedy but had thought it was too gloomy t... |
Triple triumph for Little BritainTop TV cult hit Little Britain has triumphed over The Office at the 15th annual British Comedy Awards.The BBC show beat The Office Christmas Special in the best TV comedy category and took the people's choice award. Matt Lucas and David Walliams also jointly won best TV comedy actor ove... | The BBC show beat The Office Christmas Special in the best TV comedy category and took the people's choice award.Matt Lucas and David Walliams also jointly won best TV comedy actor over The Office creator Ricky Gervais, who won a special award for writing.Speaking after receiving the award for best comedy, Walliams sai... |
Applegate's Charity show closesUS musical Sweet Charity has cancelled its run on Broadway after poor ticket sales for its early shows.Star Christina Applegate had to pull out of pre-Broadway performances earlier this month with a broken foot. Producer Barry Weissler said he was "deeply proud" of the show, but said the ... | Applegate, who starred in TV comedy Married With Children, had been hoping to make her Broadway debut in the show.US musical Sweet Charity has cancelled its run on Broadway after poor ticket sales for its early shows.It was first performed on Broadway in 1966 with Gwen Verdon in the title role, while Shirley MacLaine s... |
Dutch watch Van Gogh's last filmThe last film to be made by the slain Dutch director Theo van Gogh, called 06/05, has been premiered in The Hague.Members of Van Gogh's family and celebrities attended the screening of 06/05, based on the murder of the anti-immigration politician Pim Fortuyn. Van Gogh was shot and stabbe... | The last film to be made by the slain Dutch director Theo van Gogh, called 06/05, has been premiered in The Hague.Van Gogh's movie mixes real images of the day of Fortuyn's murder with a fictional plot about Dutch intelligence services conspiring to silence the politician.Earlier this year, Van Gogh made a film accusin... |
Prodigy join V Festival line-upEssex act Prodigy are to headline the second stage at this year's V Festival, joining main stage headliners Scissor Sisters and Franz Ferdinand.The event, which is in its 10th year, will be held at two venues - Hylands Park in Essex and Weston Park in Staffordshire on 20 and 21 August. Me... | A month later at the V Festival, Prodigy will play at Weston Park on Saturday 20 August and Hylands Park on Sunday 21 August and the Chemical Brothers vice versa.V festival director Bob Angus said: "With the Prodigy and the Chemical Brothers now confirmed to headline the second stage, we are headed for a really stellar... |
Alicia Keys to open US Super BowlR&B star Alicia Keys is to open February's Super Bowl singing a song only previously performed there by Ray Charles and Vicki Carr.Keys, who will sing America the Beautiful, will be accompanied by 150 students from the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind. Charles, who died last ye... | It will be her first performance at the Super Bowl, which will be watched by millions in the US on 6 February.Sir Paul said: "There's nothing bigger than being asked to perform at the Super Bowl.The game and show were watched by 144 million people in the US in 2003.Keys said she was "very excited", describing Charles a... |
Paraguay novel wins US book prizeA novel set in 19th century Paraguay has won the $10,000 (£5,390) fiction prize at the US National Book Awards.Lily Tuck's The News From Paraguay is a fictionalised tale about Paraguayan leader Francisco Solano Lopez and his Irish mistress. But the annual awards, which were presented in... | A novel set in 19th century Paraguay has won the $10,000 (£5,390) fiction prize at the US National Book Awards.Children's author Judy Blume, who was given an honourary medal, used the ceremony to speak out over censorship.The National Book Awards non-fiction prize was awarded to Kevin Boyle's for Arc of Justice, which ... |
Singer's film to show at festivalA documentary which takes a candid look at the life of chart-topping singer George Michael will be shown at this year's Berlin Film Festival.A Different Story will screen in the Panorama section of the festival, which runs from 10-20 February. It features the singer talking about both h... | A documentary which takes a candid look at the life of chart-topping singer George Michael will be shown at this year's Berlin Film Festival.It features the singer talking about both his career and his personal life, from his days in Wham!Michael will attend the festival to introduce the screening on 16 February.The fi... |
Director Nair's Vanity projectIndian film director Mira Nair has said she was thrilled to be given the chance to make William Makepeace Thackeray's novel Vanity Fair - as the book has been a favourite through her life.The book is one of the classics of English literature - the story of scheming 19th Century social clim... | Indian film director Mira Nair has said she was thrilled to be given the chance to make William Makepeace Thackeray's novel Vanity Fair - as the book has been a favourite through her life.But Nair said that her film had picked up on the way Thackeray - who was born in India but moved to England as a young man - had see... |
No UK premiere for Rings musicalThe producers behind the Lord of the Rings musical have abandoned plans to premiere the show in London because no suitable theatre was available.The £11.5m show will make its debut in Toronto in March 2006, after it was found that all three West End theatres with sufficient capacity were... | The producers behind the Lord of the Rings musical have abandoned plans to premiere the show in London because no suitable theatre was available."I know there will be a lot of disappointed British Tolkien fans who hoped to see the show in London, but we couldn't get a London theatre in time," added the British producer... |
British stars denied major OscarsBritish hopes of winning major Oscars were dashed as UK stars failed to win acting and directing prizes.Despite three nominations, Mike Leigh's Vera Drake failed to take the director or screenplay awards and there was no prize for star Imelda Staunton. Kate Winslet also lost to best act... | Cinematographer John Mathieson, who was nominated for Gladiator in 2001, was also up for The Phantom of the Opera but lost to The Aviator.It was also a debut nomination for Staunton, 49, who played abortionist Vera Drake in Mike Leigh's film.Despite three nominations, Mike Leigh's Vera Drake failed to take the director... |
Smith loses US box office crownNew comedy Diary of a Mad Black Woman has ended Will Smith's reign at the top of the North American box office.Based on a play by Tyler Perry, who also stars as a gun-toting grandmother, the film took $22.7m (£11.8m) in its first three days of release. After topping the chart for two cons... | After topping the chart for two consecutive weeks, Smith's romantic comedy Hitch dropped to second place with takings of $21m (£10.9m).New comedy Diary of a Mad Black Woman has ended Will Smith's reign at the top of the North American box office.Based on a play by Tyler Perry, who also stars as a gun-toting grandmother... |
Rapper films music video in jailA US rapper awaiting trial for murder has filmed part of a music video in jail, angering a sheriff who says he was tricked into letting TV crews in.C-Murder, a former member of rap group Tru, was filmed in his orange prison suit for the video for his Y'all Heard of Me single in a New Orl... | But Mr Lee said he did not know the rapper had filmed the video and made an album behind bars, and said he was fooled into letting the cameras in.A US rapper awaiting trial for murder has filmed part of a music video in jail, angering a sheriff who says he was tricked into letting TV crews in.Mr Rakosky said it was bet... |
Wife Swap makers sue US 'copycat'The British producers of US Wife Swap are taking legal action against a show they claim is "a blatant and wholescale copycat" of their programme.RDF Media, which makes the show for US network ABC, has filed a damages claim for $18 million (£9.25 million) against Fox's Trading Spouses. A... | The British producers of US Wife Swap are taking legal action against a show they claim is "a blatant and wholescale copycat" of their programme.ABC bought the rights to the British show, which was first aired in 2003 and became a hit on Channel 4.Earlier this year, the NBC network claimed that Fox's boxing show The Ne... |
The Sound of Music is coming homeThe original stage production of The Sound of Music is to be performed for the first time in the Austrian capital, 40 years after the film was released.The first full-scale theatrical production of the musical will make its debut in Vienna on Saturday. Julie Andrews starred in the 1965 ... | The film was never shown in any cinema in Austria and was not broadcast on television until the early 1990s.The musical is based on the true story of the von Trapp family who formed a singing troupe and escaped from Nazi-occupied Austria in 1938.Sensitivities about Nazism during wartime Austria and issues towards the v... |
£1.8m indecency fine for ViacomMedia giant Viacom has paid out $3.5m (£1.8m) to end investigations into indecency in its US radio and TV shows.The settlement to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) ends a long-running saga dating back to 2001. The FCC was looking into 50 shows, including those by "shock joc... | Media giant Viacom has paid out $3.5m (£1.8m) to end investigations into indecency in its US radio and TV shows.Viacom is contesting that fine.Infinity Broadcasting, which is owned by Viacom, paid cumulative fines totalling $1.7m (£907,000) in 1995 to settle FCC violations by Stern.It is not the first time that Viacom ... |
Aaliyah claim dismissed by courtLate R&B star Aaliyah's record company has failed in an attempt to sue the video producer who booked the ill-fated flight on which she died in 2001.A New York appeals court has told Blackground Records that only the singer's parents had the right to launch a claim for wrongful death. The... | Aaliyah was a rising star in music and film before she was killed.A New York appeals court has told Blackground Records that only the singer's parents had the right to launch a claim for wrongful death.Aaliyah had completed a music video when the plane crashed in the Bahamas.An investigation into the crash revealed the... |
De Niro film leads US box officeFilm star Robert De Niro has returned to the top of the North American box office with his film Hide and Seek.The thriller shot straight to the number one spot after taking $22m (£11.7m) at the box office. De Niro recently spent three weeks at the top with comedy Meet The Fockers, which ... | Film star Robert De Niro has returned to the top of the North American box office with his film Hide and Seek.De Niro recently spent three weeks at the top with comedy Meet The Fockers, which was at number five this week.Oscar best-picture nominee Sideways entered the top ten for the first time in its 15th week of rele... |
Hendrix guitar fetches £100,000A much-loved guitar belonging to Jimi Hendrix has been sold for £100,000 at an auction in London.The 1965 Fender Stratocaster was one of a number of guitars included in the sale dedicated to the rock legend. The vast archive of instruments, signed records and posters were collected by a d... | The Jimi Hendrix Experience's first single Hey Joe, signed by all the band, was sold for £2,000.A much-loved guitar belonging to Jimi Hendrix has been sold for £100,000 at an auction in London.The 1965 Fender Stratocaster was one of a number of guitars included in the sale dedicated to the rock legend.The auction was b... |
Singer Christina Aguilera to wedPop star Christina Aguilera is to marry music executive Jordan Bratman, the singer's agent has confirmed.Bratman, 26, proposed to Grammy-winning singer Aguilera, 23, on holiday at an undisclosed location. The pair have been together for more than two years. "No wedding plans have been se... | In 2002, Aguilera won best pop collaboration for the hit track Lady Marmalade with Lil' Kim, Maya and Pink, and last year she picked up the award for best female pop vocal performance for Beautiful.New York-born Aguilera reached number one in the UK with her debut hit Genie in a Bottle in October 1999.Pop star Christin... |
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