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One of The Best Gay Film Shorts of the Year Thus Far, from a surprising source

2011-07-18T14:00:00.001-07:00

One of the funniest gay films of the year, care of Funny or Die. Starring Tori Spelling, an Academy Award winner, 276 gays and a few cocks.

It screened before CHO DEPENDENT at Outfest this past week.

I laughed out loud at least 3 times, and almost fell off my chair at the ending.

Hoarders: Untold sTori from Tori Spelling

LA Audiences Preview this Year's Best in LGBT Film at Outfest: The LA LGBT Film Festival

2011-07-17T10:49:00.000-07:00

I'm here to tell you that when your local LGBT Film Festival happens in your town, don't buy tickets...buy a festival pass. It's absolutely astounding the jump in quality in this year's new crop of LGBT film faire.

This past month or so marks the annual informal launching of the queer film festival circuit with movies premiering at Frameline in San Fran, Newfest in NY, PhillyFest in Penn and Outfest in Los Angeles.
(pictured, The Ford Theatre at Outfest, photo care of Krauss in the House)

First, I'll share with you the prize winners at Outfest, then highlight a few "favorites" from myself and my associates.

The Grand Jury Prize for both Best Feature and Best Screenwriting went to Stephen Cone's The Wise Kids.

My friend who recommended I see this was right, the characters WRECK YOU (but in a good way!)

(pictured right, Sadieh Rifai in The Wise Kids. As with most thesps in this film, accomplished in the slow teared close up that you could set entire sonatas to)

The film unfolds one summer at a Youth Ministry in somewhere-in-the-middle, USA and mingles human growth with Christian teachings and the stirrings of gay. It's an engaging, understated film that draws you in with outstanding performances and a quiet urgency. It also rings with authenticity and doesn't always take the predictable route. Outfest was the world premiere of The Wise Kids.

Andrew Haigh's Weekend won the Grand Jury Award on the International Best Feature end of things. As with The Wise Kids, this feature brings you a fresh, new film making talent in LGBT film. Welcome, and please make more movies for us, seriously, like I'm begging you.

(pictured right, Weekend)

Unlike The Wise Kids which dwells in the silent moments and stirring static shots of characters in emotional conflict and curiosity, Weekend's characters talk it out, with kinetic cinematography that puts you right there on the bed in the room with the two men. Weekend unfolds over 48 hours after a one-night-stand between two men. What starts with raw sex, continues with raw conversation making the audience not only wonder "will they end up together" but also "will they grow?".

Nikohl Boosheri won Outstanding Actress Award for her role in CIRCUMSTANCE, a 100% audience favorite. Not surprising since it also won the Audience Award for Best Feature at the highly competitive and lauded Sundance Film Festival this past January.

The film is set against the political and social issues in contemporary Iran, but what will grab you is the highly accomplished film making that pulls you into this story of two teenage girls from either side of the track.

The entire cast of Private Romeo won Outstanding Acting in a feature film. Let me put on my big surprised face since the two leads in this are currently - ahem, slumming - on Broadway in Warhorse (soon to be a major xmas release feature film from Steven Spielberg).

I'm going to get you gay men to put this on your "must see" list just by telling you the plot: it's about an all boy military academy studying Romeo & Juliet. One weekend, the play overcomes the school and the characters. (pictured above Private Romeo, Circumstance)

Another sure fire YOU WILL LOVE movie was Chely Wright's WISH ME AWAY. 100% audience favorite. Also on that list add WE WERE HERE, also a documentary.

There were so many beloved films from every imaginable genre, they can't all fit in this post, so I'll leave the rest to another day.

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

And here's a few funny little interviews with some of the film makers:

DOT429 Has LGBT Mixer in Los Angeles - Wild Time Was Had By All

2011-07-16T23:05:00.000-07:00

Well, some of my friends and associates and I were on the host committee for DOT429's latest Los Angeles LGBT Brunch, and having not been to one of these yet (they host them around the country) I thought, well, what the hell.

Holy cow, I had beyond a blast and I have to say, I'm really starting to enjoy The Andaz on the Sunset Strip.

I met some lovely people, had some incredible conversations and I'm hoping that woman that said she'd email the link to those fashionable vegan shoes remembers to do so.

We discussed things as wide and varied as the history of the lgbt rights movement in America, the current state of lgbt representations in television, the best business cards ideas (no, it was not like the scene in American Psycho. The winning business card idea for these things was "People usually bore me, but I find you moderately interesting, let's stay in touch." I'm making 500 today).

I also met people in as wide and varied fields as marketing, modeling and non profit assistance in third world countries.

Here were some of my favorite quotes of the afternoon:

"A lesbian is explaining musical theatre to a gay man!? Bar the door, shutter the windows, stock up on water and buy a rifle... it's the end of the world!!!"

"How's your gay divorce going?" "Oh, you know, it gets better."

From a gay man: "God, I wish I could drink the way my mother used to."

From a butch lesbian: "Yeah, some men are scared of lesbians so we have to be extra nice. I don't understand this. It's always a STRAIGHT woman that cuts off a penis and puts in the garbage disposal not a lesbian!"

Needless to say, I laughed the entire time and met some stunning lgbt folks. Good times, good times for sure.

If you want to hear about upcoming events in Los Angeles for the lgbt community, head over and LIKE my events page: https://www.facebook.com/TheSmokingCocktail

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Hot New LGBT Films Hit the Circuit, Hard

2011-07-09T11:44:00.000-07:00

Well, I survived the second day of Outfest: The Los Angeles Gay & Lesbian Film Festival, thanks in part to sponsor Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf who have fabulous little instant espresso machines at the Director's Guild for self serve espresso!

Here are the photos from yesterday including the reception for SHE MONKEY, and the red carpets for JAMIE AND JESSE ARE NOT TOGETHER and LONGHORNS.

See all ya'll today and tomorrow as the gay film fun continues....there are tons of INCREDIBLE films this weekend for all tastes. Check out my post from yesterday to see my picks and watch trailers.

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

JD's Picks: Outfest 2011 - The First Weekend

2011-07-08T14:46:00.000-07:00

Hello kitty cats.

Well you've all been bugging, and finally I'm compiling my list of MUST SEES for Outfest. I had to confer with a few other filmphiles to make sure to recommend the best.

I'll cover this weekend and get to the rest by Monday. Promise.

Tonight, Friday July 8th, you will find me at the DGA Atrium for happy hour, then I"ll be at the screenings of LONGHORNS and JAMIE AND JESSE ARE NOT TOGETHER at the Sunset 5.

LONGHORNS is set in 1982 Texas and boasts Beers, Steers and a couple of Queers.

Trailer looks fun until all the male nudity, so I may bring a copy of Vanity Fair to read during those gay boy sex scenes.

LONGHORNS is from TLA Video and the director of the award winning Redwoods. It co stars the hunky Dylan Vox from here! tv's The Lair (who is the only porn star I know who got a law degree from Pepperdine). The after party will be at ELEVEN in WeHo.

If you've never seen TODD HAYNE's film Poison - it's playing at the Director's Guild tonight as part of a retro screening series. This film blew me away when it first came out. I bet it's still a provocative movie experience today, so I recommend it if you haven't seen it.

Then onto Saturday, July 9th.

THE WISE KIDS from director Stephen Cone is at the DGA at 1:45 pm.

THE WISE KIDS Trailer from Stephen Cone on Vimeo.

Then you must... I repeat MUST GO SEE.... We Were Here at 4:15 pm at the DGA.

This film was a big hit at The Sundance Film Festival as well as at Berlin.

If you enjoyed the popular and award winning Fat Girls, writer/director Ash Christian is back with the quirky comedy MANGUS costarring Heather Matarazzo (Welcome to the Dollhouse), Leslie Jordan and Jennifer Coolidge.

Can you hear me now? Can you hear me now? Remember when Verizon spokesman Paul Marcarelli came out as gay?

Well now the former cell phone spokesman has written and produced a gay film, THE GREEN, and it stars Cheyenne Jackson, Julia Ormond, Illeana Douglas and it's GOOD. Check it out Saturday night at the DGA.

Then, if you like quirky indies, you have to check out another hit from The Sundance Film Festival, HAPPY HAPPY at the DGA at 9:30.

This is a dark, interesting comedy that pushes the boundaries of political correctness. It was a audience favorite in Utah last January, where it received the Grand Jury Prize for World Cinema. Yeah, that's BIG.

Then at 9:45 at the DGA, Casper Andreas's new film GOING DOWN IN LALA LAND.

Andreas is certainly prolific, his previous films being Violet Tendencies, A Four Letter Word, The Big Gay Musical, and Slutty Summer.

His oft collaborator, hotty Jesse Archer costars.

Then, more great faire on Sunday.

Starting with the sparse, yet compelling grief/regret tone poem WITHOUT at the Sunset 5 at 2:30.

If you like sweeping BBC lesbian flicks like Tipping the Velvet, Fingersmith, and The Diary of Miss Anne Lister, then you'll enjoy THE NIGHT WATCH, playing at 4:45 at the DGA.

The film takes place post WWII in England and involves several seemingly disparate people all recovering from the wounds of war. If you enjoy Sarah Waters, you'll love this latest adaptation.

Then it's Sophie's Choice - as with all years - Sunday night with two big hits playing against each other at the DGA.

One is the bio-doc BECOMING CHAZ, which was bought at Sundance this year by the Queen of the Universe Oprah for her new channel. The film chronicles Chastity Bono through his transition to Chaz.

The other is Eldar Rappaport's AUGUST. Both popular and well reviewed movies.

AUGUST - Trailer from Eldar Rapaport on Vimeo.

Outfest Kicks Off Downtown last night with Their Opening Night Gala

2011-07-08T13:54:00.000-07:00

Hot damn and here we go, Outfest has officially begun in SoCal and once again it's time for all the lgbt's to clear their schedules for the next ten days of films, panels, parties and the overall general fabulousness that is the gay cultural event of the year.

I'm always excited to see the new crop of lgbt films, just to see what is germinating in the hearts and minds of homos these days. There's generally some clunkers, a few "nice tries", many "wow-that-was-alot-of-nudity"s, yet ultimately some incredibly moving and entertaining faire that speaks to our community.

The official LGBT film season really kicks off at Frameline: The San Francisco International Gay & Lesbian Film Festival in June, concurring with Pride Month. Then the next two top queer festivals continue the charge with Outfest in Los Angeles, and The Philadelphia Gay & Lesbian Film Festival in July, then these films will be touring the country (and the world) for up to a year, so check your local LGBT film festival schedules.

(TLA Video's Elliot London with actor Drew Doedge, Outfest Executive Director Kirsten Schaffer, Damiana interviews writer/actress Guin Turner (Go Fish, American Psycho)

Last night Outfest kicked-off with the Opening Night Gala at the historic downtown Orpheum Theatre, which included a VIP pre party where you could spot a few celebs including Tori Spelling, Neil Patrick Harris and - don't gasp - Monica Lewinski. I know, I know, how random.

Then they presented the Outfest Achievement Award to Randy Barbato and Fenton Bailey from World of Wonder (Rupaul's Drag Race, The Eyes of Tammy Faye, 101 Rent Boys and Party Monster) The film was the Sundance hit GUN HILL ROAD, then the afterparty was down the street in the fashion district.

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

POINT Foundation Announces 2011 Scholars and Hosts Fundraiser in Los Angeles

2011-06-06T10:04:00.000-07:00

The Point Foundation announced this year's selection of Point Scholars on their web site today. Click here to see the list of the new scholars.

This year, a few of the institutions Point will be sending scholars to include MIT, UCLA, Duke, Harvard, NYU, Wellesley, Johns Hopkins Medical School and Stanford Law School.

Point Foundation awards scholarships to LGBT students of merit across the country in diverse fields of study. The financial support they receive also comes with a mentor in their field and unending support in a multitude of ways through-out their academic careers. Point is committed in nurturing the LGBT leaders of tomorrow, and providing the opportunity for higher learning to those who otherwise could not afford it.

Special consideration is given to applicants who have been marginalized or disowned by their family of origin, yet continue to excel academically and/or in the field of advocacy.

The Point Foundation is supported across the country by the best and the brightest in the LGBT community. These individuals make up the organization's Board of Directors, Donors and Mentors.

(pictured, Executive Director Jorge Valencia, center)

Through-out the year, Point hosts events for donors and supporters of POINT, and recently one was held here in Southern California in Hancock Park.

Here are a few photos of the event, provided by photographer Brian Putnam.

The Top Ten Most Romantic Films of All Time - Sweet and Dysfunctional Versions

2011-02-13T11:37:00.000-08:00

Snuggle up with your favorite honey and your rescue animals on the couch and spend the evening entrenched with these tales of enduring and true love.

Here's my personal top ten best romantic movies. By the way, I only picked movies where the leads end up together; where neither one of them is a prostitute; where Tom Cruise isn't in it (because he's annoying); and the overall theme of the film is the love story, not, you know, like running from the Nazi's in the Austrian Alps.

10. The African Queen
Hard to imagine a romantic love story being effective between a crotchety old Humphrey Bogart, and a haggard Kate Hepburn playing a splinster, but this film will draw you in.

Is there a better backdrop than fighting Germans for two souls to find true love? As they battle each other, WWI German boats and mosquitoes, the two form an unlikely attraction that grows into something deeper.

Set in 1914, Hepburn plays a British missionary who gets stuck in a German occupied African jungle when her brother is killed by soldiers. To her reluctant rescue, comes a crusty boat Captain left to helm his own ship, The African Queen, when his crew deserts after hearing WWI was started.

The two hate each other, of course, but have to bond together to make the perilous journey up the river. So this doubles as a road trip movie!

Great chemistry that will have you routing for them.

9. The Way We Were
The Communist Jew and the goyish blue-eyed frat-boy - she's got a lot to say, him...not so much, but holy Jesus, the sparks fly when they get together. I didn't want to include a movie where the two leads don't end up together, but this is too much of a classic not to mention just for the sheer melodrama/romance of it all.

"But you must'nt be too serious." Redford seduces Streisand

Set against the backdrop of the Hollywood Blacklist, Sydney Pollack took this otherwise pedestrian, swirly-letter romance and managed to elevate it - no offense to gay author Arthur Laurents, who said he based it on a girl he knew in college (he also penned West Side Story, another classic love story). Pollock admits he had to coerce Redford into playing the rather shallow lead because he knew he could give more to the character.

If you've ever loved someone so much, yet it just will never make sense, you'll get this movie and cry along with great lines like, "You expect so much, Katie," "Yes, but look at what I've got."

Cue Marvin Hamlish score.....See ya, Hubbell.

8. An Officer and a Gentleman

A classic romance, with a gritty undertones, that manages to show the darker, vulnerable side of the characters, while still retaining a silver screen romance standard (Love indeed lifts them up where they belong!).

A Navy cadet (Richard Gere) with "nowhere else to go" gets wooed by a local factory girl (original crazy-bad-girl, precursor to Lindsay Lohan, Debra Winger) looking to snag an officer, and in the middle of struggles, tragedy and a bucket of white trash atmosphere, find real, true love.

Great secondary love story - Gere and drill Sergeant Louis Gossett Jr.

7. Bound

Before helming The Matrix films, the Wachowski brothers pulled-off this fantastic noir homage with a lesbian twist.

The chemistry between bad girl butch Gina Gershon and mobster honey Jennifer Tilly (aptly named Violet) is top notch, and the film takes place in the confines of one apartment building in a few days.

Do yourself a big favor, if you haven't done this already - watch it with the director's track ON. It is like a whole other form of entertainment as the directors describe technical things whilst Suzy Bright explains all the sexual parts with blunt detail ("Ya see, a woman's hands are her dick") and Joe Pantoliano keeps offering to drop his pants. HYSTERICAL!

6. Random Harvest
This was one of my favorite movies as a kid (I was a big Ronald Coleman fan - I know, go figure. The other kids liked Shaun Cassidy and Robby Benson) and this is a BIG TIME MELODRAMATIC LOVE STORY (hence the all caps).

Ronald Coleman and Greer Garson

Even just looking at some of the stills from this film now made me practically break out weeping. I don't know whether it's the impossible journey these two have to undertake to be together, or the incredible vulnerability, charm and all around hotness of Greer Garson.

Set against the backdrop of war-torn Britain post WWI, Coleman plays a soldier who has suffered complete amnesia and wanders into the loving and accepting arms of Garson in the country side. The two fall in love, get married and proceed to be sickeningly perfect and fabulous together. UNTIL... cue hokey drama music... one day in town, Coleman regains his memory, only to forget all of his recent history!

He returns to his previous life in the big city, being a successful businessman from a rich family but he can't seem to get out of his mind that he's forgetting something important. After her husband goes missing, Garson's character finally finds him then - get this - takes a job as his secretary in hopes that they'll either fall in love again or he'll finally remember.

Then this goes on FOR YEARS. Ending is brilliant and touching.

It's from the same author that brought us Lost Horizons, Goodbye, Mr. Chips and the screen adaptation of Mrs. Miniver. MUST RENT, although a warning (I know, NOW a warning?)... no straight man in history has ever been able to sit through this one!

5. White Palace

What a surprise this sleeper little romance ditty was back in 1990.

Mexican Director Luis Mandoki took this low budget romance novel and cooked it up into a surprisingly touching and sexy film, with help from mutlilayered performances by heavyweight thesps James Spader and Susan Sarandon, and a screen adaptation from Alvin Sargent (Ordinary People, Spiderman 3, Julia).

Spader plays a 27 year old persnickety yuppy who has a one-night-stand with 43 year-old, burger joint counter girl, Susan Surandon. Two different tax brackets, two different age groups, yet somehow they find themselves wanting to make a go of it.

You start to learn they do have something in common, though. Both have suffered immeasurable and crippling losses which have seriously affected their ability to connect through love, or even to allow themselves to feel happiness.

It is a little dated in the time period (I can't forgive the 1980's for that hair, the shoulderpads and that insipid soundtrack!), but this film will also just suck you in. Supporting actors include the always fantastic Eileen Brennen and Kathy Bates.

4. The Ghost and Mrs. Muir

The chemistry quotient between the crusty old sea captain and the sweet, young widow is just outstanding. This meets all my standards of a good romance because you just know these two have to be together and it's a joy to watch the bond grow as two opposites form a mutual respect and deeper love for each other. And technically, if you've seen this film, they do end up together!

Cranky, old sea captain Daniel Craigg (Rex Harrison) continues to haunt his old house from the afterlife and tries his best to get rid of the new tenants - a sweet yet unusually independent widow (Gene Tierney) and her daughter (Natalie Wood).

After he's unsuccessful (because she's awfully plucky) he ends up helping her keep the house when financial crisis strikes by dictating to her his stories from sea, which she publishes as fiction. What follows is sacrifice, sadness and eventually... well, you'll just have to see it. To boot, the film is very witty with some clever and sometimes naughty one liners.

3. The Goodbye Girl
From the moment Richard Dreyfus states, "You don't keep the panties hanging on the shower", I fell in love with this classic 1970's style rom com about a down-and-out actor who rents a room from an unemployed single mom.

Written by Neil Simon (and starring his then wife Marsha Mason), the film depicts love in NYC between a broke and broken romantic and a struggling actor.

It also introduced the world to the too-clever-for-her-age little girl character which no one ever got just as right as Quinn Cummings (sorry Jodie Foster). And that catchy emo '70's theme song, "All your life you've waited, for love to come and stay...."

2. The Notebook

Okay, I'm only human!

You can not avoid the allure of Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdam's sizzling and simmering chemistry in Nick Cassavetes' deeply romantic film that somehow rides the line between schmaltzy and engaging.

The tale is a love story that could not be more cliched - poor boy falls for rich girl, rich girl's parents forbid it and whisk her away.

Set against the backdrop of the 1940's, the story is narrated in present day by Jim Rockford himself - James Garner - to his nursing home buddy (played the director's mother, Gena Rowlands). Great use of the split time storytelling outside of LOST.

The by-the-book romance gets some slight indie street cred with supporting actor turns by Sam Shepard and Joan Allen.

A modern day classic!

1. Say Anything
Not since Romeo appeared below Juliet's window has there been such an iconic declaration of boyhood love as when John Cusack held up his boom box outside Ione Sky's window and "In Your Eyes" played.

Lloyd is a dork, and the object of his high school affection is the seemingly unattainable good girl, Diane Court. The film is riddled with common cliches from other films of the period (mainly John Hughes originated) including the sassy best girlfriends who coach Lloyd, and the caring father (played by John Mahoney).

Then this film takes a few surprising turns to hit an indelible mark with bits like the dinner table scene, "I don't want to sell anything, buy anything or process anything as a career. I don't want to sell anything bought or processed...." and the infamous, "He gave me a pen" line/metaphor.

Lloyd doesn't know what he wants to do post high school, and that isn't going to work for the overprotected Diane, whose father keeps a strict fence around her with high expectations. But true love is definitely the thing that wins out in this film, directed by Cameron Crowe (Jerry McGuire and Almost Famous).

___________

Okay, let's face facts. Hollywood romances are the reason we have such ridiculous expectations of love and marriage in this country, and in real life, none of this shit really happens.

And for those of you looking for the unhappy ending, there's always the brilliant Casablanca (unless you were routing for Louie), Dr. Zhivago and The English Patient.

The best romances where they don't end up together: 500 Days of Summer and Truly Madly Deeply.

I thought I'd better balance that saccharine with a strong dose of celluloid reality. Now, the underbelly of the love story. A place full of desperation, mental illness, shame, guilt and sexual perversion. Basically, all the things we probably recognize in our own lives more than what is depicted in any of the films I mentioned yesterday.

So curl up this February 14th with that person who refuses to commit to you; cheats on you; and/or the person that annoys you the most but is wonderful in bed.... with a strong cup of rot gut, a little passive/aggressiveness and Happy Valentine's Day!

____________

10. Donnie Darko

God, I just love this film! It takes you on what you think will be a predictable route, but instead pulls you on a journey through the meaning of love and some of Einstein's more popular theories.

Plus it's one of the most effective tales of modern white boy teenage angst ever depicted.

AND it's the best use of an imaginary rabbit since Harvey.

Jake Gyllenhaal is a troubled teen on meds (Ordinary People like) and he lives in the kind of cookie-cutter neighborhood that ET and Poltergeist made famous. One night he's contacted by a voice that tells him to do things. Bad things.

It starts out like a horror thriller, but then veers into a wonderfully romantic love story between this troubled boy and a girl from school that accepts him the way he is.

The film has fantastic, quirky characters including a Self Help Guru (Patrick Swayze), a liberal teacher (Drew Barrymore who also produced), Grandma Death, Frank the Bunny Rabbit and the curt, clueless shrink (Katherine Ross...hey, it's Sundance's girlfriend!). It's quite fun watching all the storylines weave together into the story to form an acute essay on the absurdity of Americana life and the isolation it tends to breed.

The film has reached cult status which has a lot to do with the main character being depicted as a sociopath, when he is in reality, a hero. Certainly identifiable for any angsty teen boy with a penchant for scifi.

By the time you get to the end, you realize it's one of the most tender love stories in years with a main character that loves his girl unconditionally. Seriously, you'll want to cry!

9. Marnie

This Alfred Hitchcock flick is creepy in more ways than one, as Sean Connery tries to seduce the cold and compulsive Tippi Hedren as the title character.

Casting one of the most attractive leading men of the time was no mistake! One wonders why the psychologically damaged Marnie doesn't seem to fall in love with him, no matter how much he tries.

Marnie is a thief and distrusts men terribly. When she robs Connery's character, instead of turning her in, he blackmails her into marrying him. Obviously this was made years before the song, "I Can't Make You Love Me If You Don't". On their honeymoon, she won't sleep with him so he rapes her, and the next morning she tries to commit suicide. Eventually, they both decide to make the marriage work.

So a great little fucked-up Valentine for you!

8. The Days of Wine and Roses

This is one of the best films about alcoholism ever made.

Jack Lemmon and Lee Remick star as a young couple who get married then slowly start to spiral into alcoholism in this remarkably honest film by director Blake Edwards.

The scene where Lemmon is looking for his hidden bottle is just brutal, as is the scene where he strikes his own baby.

The painful part of the movie is that fact that Lemmon's character introduces his young wife to alcohol, but then has to make an impossible decision - should he abandon her to save himself? Jack Klugman costars as his AA sponsor.

7. Wristcutters: A Love Story

This is a love story that takes place in the afterlife in the way-station for people who have committed suicide.

Dig-ding-ding... we have a totally brilliant fucked up love story setting winner!

I mean - the film takes place in hell, and everyone in it has killed themselves! Yet, this is a stunning and sweet little film with a touching love story at it's core dealing with the usual litany of teen concerns.

Patrick Fugit stars as Zia, who after slitting his wrists, finds himself in a world similar to his own, only without much joy to it. It is hell indeed. He teams up with a group of other souls (some very fun and interesting characters) on a cross country journey to try to figure a way out of this purgatory. On route, he meets a girl, Mikai, who believes there has been some terribly mistake since she didn't kill herself.

This is the third film on my list from The Sundance Film Festival (High Art and Good Dick are the other two). It's certainly the only feel-good film ever made about suicide!

6. High Art

"I have a love issue and drug problem, " Lucy tells her mom and that sums up this $60,000 budgeted little indie gem by lesbian writer/director Lisa Cholodenko.

Sydney has a nice boyfriend, is young and bright-eyed, so naturally she gets attracted to her neighbor - a recluse lesbian photographer (Ally Sheedy) who is addicted to all forms of drugs and alcohol.

The film is fantastic and was the break out role for Patricia Clarkson, who plays the heroine addicted girlfriend.

5. Good Dick

He's a very committed stalker, and she's addicted to porn.

This film is so perverse in it's commitment to telling a sweet, by-the-books romance with two characters that are so damaged and quirky, it's hysterical.

Jason Ritter plays the video store clerk who follows the claustrophobic recluse, played by the film's writer/director Marianna Palka. The two eventually, sort of have a romance.

It's dysfunctional to the nth degree! It's a first time film that I saw at Sundance, and it surprised me how much I laughed. It certainly gets you shouting, "Oh no, they did NOT just do that!"

4. The Little Girl Who Lives Down the Lane

Behind the veneer of this creepy, psychological horror film, is a surprisingly touching little teen love story!

This has everything a good fucked-up romance should have: a pedophile (Martin Sheen), murder, polio, and the torture of innocent hamsters.

Jodie Foster plays an eerie little girl who lives alone, and has no problem doing the ole arsenic and old lace bit on anyone that jeopardizes that. Along comes neighbor boy (Scott Jacoby) - who is rather sickly and enjoys magic. A friendship develops to the point where she can tell him where the bodies are buried, literally and a strange bond is formed between these two damaged kids.

If you've ever wanted a boyfriend that will help you bury the bodies, this is the film for you!

3. Sid and Nancy

"I look like fucking Stevie Nicks!" And so goes Nancy (Chloe Webb), on a spiral down with punk boyfriend Sid Vicious (Gary Oldman) in this true biopic that is a tender love story between two British drug addicts.

Sid was the bass player for The Sex Pistols and Nancy was the woman he loved, then killed. Their romance is the definition of a train wreck, and the film is unapologetic in it's tale of two rude, desperate, damaged and heroin addicted people.

The film was based on a book by the real life mom of Nancy.

If you've every loved someone so much you want to stab them, this is the love story for you!

2. The Lonely Passion of Judith Hearne

Oh my god, the characters in this are so unbelievably pathetic, it's almost hard to watch at points.

Maggie Smith gives one of the best performances of her career as a Catholic spinster in the 1950's who endeavors to engage a local man (Bob Hoskins) into a romance. It seems all very sweet - love later in life and all, until you find out he's a pervert and she's an alcoholic. On top of that, he's just trying to grift her, and he's such a loser he's not even any good at it.

The film was produced by Beatle George Harrison under his Handmade Films shingle and co stars one of my all time favorite actresses Wendy Hiller.

1. The Night Porter

This controversial erotic flick by female director Liliana Cavini is the tender love story between a Nazi prison guard and the concentration camp victim he rapes. This one is often nearly impossible to watch, so it gets the #1 spot.

Dirk Bogarde and Charlotte Rampling give two stellar and horrifyingly sensitive performances as two damaged people, who have lived through so much horror that they can only find comfort in each other's company. I mean, they are way beyond anything Dr Phil can do to help.

The film takes place thirteen years after the end of WWII, and former concentration camp victim Lucia Atherton is now married to a prominent violin player, and living an affluent lifestyle which includes travel and posh hotels. At one such hotel in Vienna, she spots a familiar face in the Night Porter. He is the Nazi guard that continually raped her when she was in a concentration camp!

Instead of reporting him, the two begin a torrid affair. Maximillian is living a poor, simple life and is still friends out of need with a circle of Nazis-in-hiding. He has insurmountable guilt and shame about his past, and obsessively buries himself in his work.

It's as disturbing as it is sad, and deals with human souls so marred in guilt and pain that defies reconciliation. It's exploitive, deals with sadomasochism and is frequently hard to watch. But I have to admit, by the end of the film, I felt I just wanted these two to end up together, as fucked up as that seems. It's truly a fantastic film, albeit risky, and certainly the saddest most fucked up love story ever!

Those that didn't make the list, but are also fucked-up favorites include: Prick Up Your Ears, Sex, Lies and Videotape and You, Me and Everyone We Know.

Watch Trailer: New Film with Christopher Plummer playing gay: Beginners

2011-01-27T17:07:00.000-08:00

Let me know what you think after watching this trailer, but I know I'm dying to see this new flick BEGINNERS starring Christopher Plummer as a dad who comes out to his son (Ewan McGregor) after being married 44 years.

The film premiered to good reviews at The Toronto Film Festival and is from director Mike Mills who had a hit at Sundance with his first feature, Thumbsuckers. He also had a father who came out to him later in life.

I don't know if it's the fact that the dog is subtitled, or the idea that is has to do with life, love, beginnings, sex, healing, nature and magic - but I'll be there opening night.

The Golden Globes - The Lesbian Running Commentary

2011-01-17T21:29:00.000-08:00

Welcome to my running commentary of the Golden Globes.

So the Golden Globe Awards were on Sunday night. Some call it the precursor to the Oscars, I think of it more like a bunch of rich, white people giving each other awards.

And you'd think being so rich and famous they could take a bit of humorous jibbing from host Ricky Gervais, but no. Not so much. The platform of his humor was roast-ish, with zingers one would usually only read on TMZ or Perez. Celebs were seriously turned off by his comments, as evident from the dearth of laughter (I actually wanted a laugh track, it got so quiet so often).

As opposed to the People's Choice Awards where popular films are given their nods (like Twilight), some criticize the Globes for lauding obscure films that no one has seen. I don't think that's true. I think the films that get nominated are the ones that the distributors decided to spend beaucoup bucks promoting. Because no one's either heard or seen the films, a lot of hoopla is created over the "red carpet" and what everyone is wearing.

My overall takeaway from the Awards was thus: Jesus Christ people, let yourself age! But more on that in a bit.

OPENING: Ricky Gervais gives a clever comedy intro. Zero laughs. Tough crowd.

He calls out the Foreign Press Corp for what they are - a small group of sycophants.

STEVE BUSCEMI WINS for Best Actor - TV Series - Drama. It's nice to see Steve finally growing into his looks. Jon Hamm was robbed in this category. ROBBED!

ANDREW GARFIELD INTRODUCES THE SOCIAL NETWORK CLIP REEL. When Garfield was cast as the new Spiderman, most people went "Andrew who?" If you want to know why Hollywood jumped on this young thesp, do yourself a favor and rent Red Riding: 1974 (He's fantastic as a young journalist trying to get at the root of an unsolved murder that no one wants to revisit. Fucking BRUTAL. Watch the trailer here) or Boy A, a fascinating tale on the legitimacy of redemption, where a recently released murderer tries to assimilate back into society.

The Social Network reel is shown as one of the evening's best feature contenders. I liked this film. I think of it as a film about a guy with Aspergers, written by a guy with Aspergers and starring a guy with Aspergers. Anyone else notice that?

RICKY GERVAIS CONTINUES TO LAUGH AT - AS OPPOSED TO WITH - CELEBS - I'm glad all this talk lately of less violent rhetoric in the media is staying in politics only and has clearly not made it over to the Globes.

ALEX BADLWIN PRESENTS. He has made utterances that he is considering running for political office. I'm cool with that. If the Republicans can have their actor president, Reagan, that I'm good with Baldwin. As long as he talks to the Republicans in congress the way he did on his daughter's answering machine when she missed a visitation.

BEST ANIMATED FILM - Oh, look at all the nice films in this category that have absolutely no chance against Toy Story 3. And yes, Toy Story 3 wins. If you have not seen it yet - run, don't walk. It is by far the best film of the year. Tangled is in this category and it's actually a great little film. I have not seen The Illusionist yet because their previous film, The Triplets of Bellevue, freaked me the fuck out too much.

ROBERT DOWNEY JUNIOR BITES BACK AT HOST GERVAIS - Says the evening has been mean with sinister undertones.

ANNETTE BENING WINS FOR BEST ACTRESS IN A MUSICAL OR COMEDY. She immediately kisses her co star from the lesbian flick The Kids Are All Right, Julliane Moore. To which the director of the Globes thought the best cutaway for that would be the openly lesbian Jane Lynch. Sheesh.

I just saw Bening in my local Whole Foods two days ago. She was lovely. I'll admit, when I started talking to her in the produce section I thought she was a smoking hot older lady, and me being all over 40 and what not, that's my demographic. Then about two sentences in, I just was all like, "You're Annette Bening!". She was beyond charming and lovely and we spoke for quite a bit about the film. She looks so much better in person, trust me on that.

AL PACINO WINS FOR YOU DON'T KNOW JACK - Mr Al has played gay quite a few times - Angels in America, Dog Day Afternoon and Cruising.

JANE LYNCH - As they read off her competition, all I could think was none of you bitches have a chance. And they didn't. She won. As she has every other award during the season. It's great to see such a solid actor who has been otherwise so overlooked until Sue Sylvester finally get her due.

HELEN MIRREN TAKES THE STAGE - and all I can think is this - THIS dear Globe audience - is what 80% of you bitches would look like without hair dye and face work. And damn if it isn't working for her. Stunning. All I can say is most of the actresses at this event need to put down the botox. Mirren is gorgeous and a sex symbol - au natural.

ROBERT DENIRO GETS LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD. Absolutely crappy clip reel - wonderful and outrageously funny acceptance speech.

Colin Firth wins for The King's Speech. He's played gay a few times too - in Mama Mia and A Single Man.

LEA MICHELLE IS NOMINATED - After fellow GLEE castmates Chris Colfer and Jane Lynch got their awards, all I could think was... honey, you ain't gonna get it because you're not gay. She didn't. Matthew Morrison was nominated as well, and of course, didn't win, again because he wasn't gay. I don't know what that's all about, but there it is.

MELISSA LEO FROM THE FIGHTER WINS - She does what a bunch of other folks have done, which is thank her agents, managers, studio execs and lawyers. I like when they do that, even though it's a bit boring, because these are the people that do all the leg work. So many people thanked their agents and studio execs tonight, it actually started to sound like someone was reciting Schindler's list.

SANDRA BULLOCK DENIES AFFAIR WITH RYAN REYNOLDS. I don't know what's worse - that stupid move or her bangs. Girl, let yourself age! We all know when you have you are hiding wrinkles. Meanwhile, she was hot and heavy a while back with best actor nominee Ryan Gosling. Sandra, get on that Ryan Reynolds action, I mean seriously. You deserve it after that Jesse mess.

GLEE wins best comedy show.

Basically The Social Network cleans up at the awards. Still, nowhere near as good as Toy Story 3.

There were a few good films not nominated - check out The Ghost Writer and Monsters. Good flicks.

Top Ten Gays of 2010

2010-12-31T11:51:00.000-08:00

Are we there yet? Are we there yet? Are we there yet? Another few hours and we'll be sliding into 2011.

Time to look back at the year in gay. I've compiled the stand out individual achievements in the LGBT world this past year, which has taken all kinds of thought since comparing these folks is like apples/oranges.... or I guess more like pomegranates and carambolas. Mainly, I rated these folks based on how well they spread the gay agenda, regardless of whether it was in the arena of journalism, politics or entertainment.... based on purity of their intent, reach of their message, and difficulty of the obstacles.

10. Steven Slater, aka The Jet Blue Flight Attendant

He probably doesn't belong on this list, but what the hell - it was one of the most talked about personal news stories of ther year.

Fed up with his job, with mounting pressure from dealing with an ill mother, Steven was mad as hell and was not going to take it any more.

After getting hit in the head with luggage, he eventually took to the mike - delivered his resignation, then popped the emergency door, grabbed some beer and slid out to fame and fortune. Celeb publicist Howard Bragman - who also works for recent out tv housewife Meredith Baxter - took him on as a client, and Slater is working on a book.

Considering the never ending recession, the wars, the ridiculous bail outs to big money, this story hit a nerve with all every day Americans. Most of them touted them as a hero for sticking it to the man.

9. The Gays of Modern Family

Nothing spreads the hope of tolerance like bringing lgbt people into America's living rooms on a regular basis. Not since Queer Eye for the Straight Guy or Will & Grace, has there been a huge American tv hit with gay main characters until Modern Family. (Previous lgbt rep winners also include Brothers and Sisters, The L Word and Queer as Folk....but this show looks to score those big big ratings and awards)

Not only has this show revitalized the American sit com, but amongst the three families, one is gay. The out gay Jesse Tyler Ferguson and the straight Eric Stonestreet play a gay couple who has just adopted a baby.

Television is helping LOADS with familiarizing the American public with who we really are (gay couples on House Hunters, open gays/lesbians on Project Runway, Top Chef, et all), and it's nice to have a few prime time shows as the tent poles of representation. Especially when it is just an simple family. They don't go to discos, do drugs, they don't have multiple sex partners, but they do have a gay best friend played by Nathan Lane.

It's sad that there are actually two gay networks - here! and Logo - that have managed not to fit this bill tending to head instead into not only stereotype exploitive shows like Dante's Cove and The A Gays, but bad shows (there are exceptions, like Rick & Steve - rent it!) Actually, most people think when you say Gay Network, you're referring to Bravo. Andy Cohen has turned that network into a plethora of gay sensibilities.

8. Graeme Taylor

A shockingly eloquent 14 year old addressed a school board on the issue of a suspended gay teacher who asked a student to leave his class room because of anti gay remarks.

As I suspected, this video not only went viral fast, but Ellen invited this young man onto her show.

I can't imagine what it's like when an entire town or city is against you, and you have the courage to stand up for what you believe in.

7. Joel Burns

This Fort Worth City Councilman surprised everyone when he took an unexpected moment during a City Council meeting to talk about teen suicide, turning the next 14 minutes into an unbelievably poignant and moving call for tolerance.

It is profoundly emotional when Joel has to pause several times to fight back tears.

Joel was supported in his run for office by The Victory Fund. If you would like to support LGBT candidates for office, please click on that link and donate!

6. The Gays of Glee: Ryan Murphy, Jane Lynch, Chris Colfer

Murphy has a long track record of insinuating the the plight of our peeps in all his shows including Popular and Nip/Tuck - not only casting LGBT people, but having story lines revolving not just around lesbian and gays, but transgenders. But when he teamed up with Brad Falchuk and Ian Brennan to create Glee, it was a homoexplosion right on prime time television.

Chris Colfer didn't even realize he was supposed to stay in the closet. He came out right away in an Advocate article and the network and studio grumbled since they weren't consulted. But what they felt would hurt the young actor and the show, turned into an Emmy nomination. And a Golden Globe nomination. And a Screen Actors Guild Award nomination. And a hero for lgbt teens.

Following in the footsteps of such rare out gay teens on television like Wilson Cruz in My So Called Life, Colfer's character Kurt and his homosexuality took center stage in many of the episodes - with storylines revolving around coming out to his father, dealing with bullying, and having a crush on his straight best friend.

Jane Lynch has always been a steadfast, active advocate for LGBT rights (and animal rights). She's been on the board of directors of The Los Angeles Gay & Lesbian Center, appeared at upteen LGBT fundraising events and starred in countless gay films by young up and coming queer film makers.

Once she hit big with GLEE, that didn't stop. In a fame theme park ride rivaled this year only by Betty White - Jane graced the covers of magazines, hosted award shows, appeared in the Emmy's opening musical number and hosted Saturday Night Live. Huge visibility to say the least, and at every opportunity, she spoke about being openly gay and her recent marriage to her partner Laura.

5. Constance McMillen

Constance wanted to take her girlfriend to the prom. That simple thought sparked a nationwide debate and coverage as the teen hit all the major airwaves with her story including Ellen, CBS, CNN and the rest.

Hailing from a small Mississippi town, the mere fact that she is a lesbian put her in such a tremendous environment of hate and discrimination, it's amazing she had the courage to even make a peep. But peep she did - becoming the poster child for all lgbt youth across the country that was facing similar discrimination.

She lawyered up and sued the school district. Then they had a prom and DIDN'T TELL HER WHERE IT WAS. She endured taunting and discrimination from adults and kids alike. It was one lesbian against an entire town.

The hickville environment of said town, however, was nothing when the entire nation seemed to step up to back this teen. She won $81,000 in damages from the Mississippi school district ($35,000 goes to her and the rest to legal fees), and Ellen awarded her a scholarship to college. On top of that, ABC Family bought the rites to her story and is going to make a tv movie about it. She also served as the Grand Marshall in the New York City Pride parade - giving lgbt teens across the country a hero.

4. Ellen

I can't even imagine in my wildest dreams having a lesbian on tv like this when I was a kid. And not only tv, but you can't open up a single mainstream chick magazine without her face plastered in two page ads for the mainstay Americana company Cover Girl.

She makes the list because she has had almost everyone in this top ten list on her show. She doesn't hide her sexuality, and I'm pretty sure it's not popular with studio execs and networks when she takes the pulpit for LGBT issues - which she always does.

It's good to have friends in high places - and this lesbian comes into America's living rooms every weekday and she continues to be a voice and a positive representation for LGBT folks.

And introduces American audiences to some of the unknown and brave LGBT people like #5, 7 and 8 on this list.

3. Dan Choi and The Get Equals

I mean if you've ever seen some ridiculous homophobic news story (anything starring John McCain this year) and just uttered profanities from your couch or ranted at a cocktail party, Dan and the folks of Get Equal were the ones that got out there and did I think what we'd all like to do. Big crazy shit. Like chaining themselves to the White House. Like staging a sit in outside Nancy Pelosi's office. Like disrupting President Obama's speeches. Like crashing Senate hearings.

These people don't stop until they're arrested, escorted or kicked out.

If you've ever just wanted to scream or take the bull by the horns, these guys are the ones that did it this year.

Get Equal is a small national organization that not only takes meetings with politicos in DC, but tends to get all up in their faces. They are like the Greenpeace of LGBT politics. Led by the quintessential everyman - a former PTA mom - Robin McGehee, they utilize a national network of grassroots activists to visibility bring attention to issues, and pressure the politicos at a constant and steady pace.

The organization gained momentum because - and seemed to be the answer to - such large organizations like HRC (as Rachel Maddow calls them, "the gay organization without gay in the name") - who sit on millions of dollars and have nice dinners, but tend to be soft on the issues with politicos in DC (many speculated ED Joe Solomnese was soft on Obama for so long since he was positioning himself for a post in the administration).

Check out a sample of their work - crashing a hearing on ENDA ( I love how she starts it, "With all due respect...")

They garner tons of criticism for their grassroots tactics, but if you support this sort of thing, I highly recommend you visit their site and make a donation: http://getequal.org/

Get Equal took on the cause of DADT with Lt. Dan Choi. Choi hit the scene hard when he came out on The Rachel Maddow Show as gay while still serving in the military. Choi was the perfect poster boy for DADT- West Point educated, articulate, decorated, combat veteran and a Arab linguist. I mean - who could not hear this guy speak for five minutes without thinking, "yeah, we shouldn't kick guys like this out of the military"?

That public outing surprisingly did not get him discharged. That came later when he chained himself to the White House. After that, he was discharged. Then he was free to lead a very public and tireless fight against DADT.

After dealing with what he calls major let downs with advocates such as Harry Reid, and unbelievably harsh criticism from the gay community, Choi was recently committed involuntarily to a VA hospital after having a break down. He felt the politicos had made one too many promises to his face, and then made one too many compromises - and he endured the gay community calling his antics PR stunts and insinuating that he was merely seeking his own fame. That plus the fact that he was now without that which he cherished the most - his military service. The pressure had built up, and now he was paying a heavy price.

A month after his nervous break however, the House and Senate came through. Here's a fantastic video of Senator Reid with Choi after Obama finally signed the repeal of DADT.

2. The Perry v Schwarzenegger Gays

(photo, interview mag, Chad Griffin center, Dustin Lance Black second from left, Bruce Cohen far right - and entire team of AFER)

Here's something that could turn the tables nationally on gay marriage, and it was again in direct response to failing campaigns in various states to defend gay marriage by large gay organizations.

Ted Olson - a conservative! - and David Boies are two powerhouse lawyers, and they are currently fighting for marriage equality in California by attempting to annul the Prop 8 vote on the grounds that it is unconstitutional.

This is - in a nutshell - what this is and how it broke down. In California, we fought and lost Prop 8 - and it was the most money raised for a ballot initiative I think ever. That means we taxed our lgbt resources to the max and still lost. While the gays licked their wounds, the gay orgs started in-fighting about when to put the marriage equality initiative back on the ballot.

Nothing like gays in-fighting I tell ya - it's akin to Krystal and Alexis in the cement pond engaging in hand to hand combat.

This is where these gays and some Hollywood players tore a page from the book of the movies. Political consultant Chad Griffin initiated the assistance of film director Rob Reiner and his wife Michele and soon a plan was hatched. A smart one. Why don't we just hire the best attorneys in the country take the bastards to court?

Soon, The American Foundation for Equal Rights was formed and their Board was filled with gay heavy hitters like Bruce Cohen (producer, Milk, American Beauty) , Dustin Lance Black (screenwriter/activist), Lt Dan Choi, David Mixner, Cleve Jones, Hilary Rosen, Stuart Milk and Griffin himself (along with some kick ass straight advocates as well).

And of course, we have the two plaintiff couples - lesbians Kris Perry & Sandy Stier and gays Paul Katami & Jeff Zarrillo.

Perry v Schwarzenegger was born. The premise was that Prop 8 violates the U.S. Constitution.

(pictured left, the plaintiffs)

It's been a long and windy road but here's where we're at. We won. Judge Vaughn Walker ruled in the Northern District of California Court that Prop 8 was unconstitutional. But wait... there was an appeal. And those pesky bastards that hate us petitioned for and won a stay (that means even though we won, we can't get married until the appeal. I know, I know, this is more complicated than Inception)

This appeal was heard in the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in early December. Basically, this could keep getting appealed to the Supreme Court where - this where it gets really juicy - this court case could have national consequences - good or bad.

It's a ball-sy move, one that has also been criticised by lgbt organizations - but if they pull it off - it could mean marriage rights nationally. Stayed tuned here.

If you like this plan, these guys and what they're doing - please click on that link and give them money! Elton John is hosting a concert for them to raise money soon - buy tix to that!

1. Dan Savage

Dan Savage did one little tiny thing which didn't even cost any money to start. He created a web site and uploaded a video and encouraged everyone else to do the same. This lead to a national contagion of epic proportions where everybody from President Obama to Tim Gunn to Bob your mailman uploaded a video. All sending a message to lgbt youth - and the world - that It Gets Better.

Holy cow - tell me what else has brought the issues of LGBT folks onto every television, youtube and facebook page to this degree.

This was done in response to several teen suicides this year that generated mass public shock at all the stories of young people killing themselves because of gay bullying. But here's the really interesting thing - the numbers of teen suicides aren't any higher or lower than they've ever been - they just FINALLY GOT PUBLIC ATTENTION.

That alone was a monumental achievement. Then by Savage starting this campaign, it kept the topic very much in the public eye and hit everyone on their heart strings just right, often, and continually.

Once again, there was criticism. I'm seeing a trend here - every time someone goes out on a limb and does something awesome and creative, someone's going to bash them. Some say lgbt teens need more than just some rhetoric on a youtube video.

Well I say this has fired up the American dialogue on what we LGBT people have been dealing with forever - discrimination. We have all dealt with it. No lgbt teen had a cake walk coming to terms with their sexuality, sexual identity and eventual coming-out. And it has put it out there in such a viral way, that everyone knows about it. That is amazing.

I think what Savage has done was one simple, creative idea born of desire to stop the horrible persecution of lgbt teens - and it's a campaign that worked on the level of involving everyone, and exposing it to everyone. Kudos.

Savage was clearly upset and felt he had to do something - and he included all of America in his mission. Brilliant.

It Gets Better was started to raise money for The Trevor Project and GLSEN.

Obama Finally Signs Repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell Policy

2010-12-22T13:39:00.000-08:00

I can't think of a better Christmas present - today after 17 horrible years of witch-hunts, lies and ruined lives - Don't Ask, Don't Tell has officially ended with a signature by President Obama.

A crowd of LGBT activists looked on, and I snagged a few of their shots from Facebook to share with you.

It was one of Obama's campaign promises to repeal the ban of gays in the military, and activists had been criticizing him for dragging his feet.

With the GOP taking over Congress come January, the clock was ticking. It was denied, until the House put a separate bill together. Then Obama backed the tax cuts, and suddenly the DADT repeal flew through the House and the Senate.

(pictured above, activist Robin McGehee with her son to the left, and Davix Mixner to the right. Also in background - Dustin Lance Black, Oscar winning screenwriter of Milk)

With the signature, we still have to wait for the joint chiefs to figure out how to implement, and then wait for 60 days.

Log Cabin Republican ED R Clarke Cooper - an Army man - salutes the president after the signing

Several of the activists that tied themselves to the White House fence several times this year in protest were there to witness the signing, including PTA mom-turned-activist Robin McGehee and discharged West Point Grad Dan Choi. The latter had to be involuntarily hospitalized just two weeks ago by the VA after having a break down he attributed to both the the duplicity of allies in congress and the criticism from LGBT activists for his tactics. Today, Harry Reid gave Choi back his West Point ring. (see photo to left, care of National Equality March)

Last night there was a last ditch effort by the Republicans to block the repeal in the Senate by tacking on verbiage in a defense authorization bill, which fortunately failed.

The U.S. now joins countries including Israel, Canada and Great Britain who also allow gays to openly serve. Senator McCain called it "A very sad day", but you know, he can kiss our asses.

It Gets Better: The Benefit Gala for The Trevor Project rocks the Hollywood Palladium at Trevor Live

2010-12-06T11:29:00.000-08:00

As Kathy Griffith so rightly announced from the stage, "You don't say 'no' to the gays", and indeed the celebs turned out en masse to help celebrate and support the work of LGBTQ organization The Trevor Project last night.

If you haven't heard of The Trevor Project, you've surely seen the It Gets Better videos floating around the internet (Obama made one) in response to the recent rash of teen suicides. This viral activism was started by Dan Savage for The Trevor Project which hosts a national teen suicide hotline, along with educational programs and outreach to help reach LGBTQ youth in crisis.

Check out the opening number, which set the tone for the entire evening - Darren Criss, the new kid on the GLEE block, singing with Katie Perry.

Executive Director Charles Robbins started off the evening with a wonderful introduction explaining the organization, it's services, history and impact. One could think an evening dealing with suicide could quickly turn maudlin, but Robbins speech celebrated the victories and show director Adam Shankman's (Hairspray) production was a loving tribute to the victories in LGBT lives.

I especially liked how Robbins started off the entire evening with a quote from one of my favorite lesbians Eleanor Roosevelt, "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams."

Among those performing included husband and wife team Idina Menzel and Taye Diggs with a mash up of Cole Porter and Ebony/Ivory, where they played around the themes of mixed marriages: "I could star in Yentl, I could star in Roots". Katy Perry kicked off the night with a fantastic performance of Teenage Dreams accompanied by GLEE's Warblers and that hunky new Darren Criss.

An homage to marriage came with the musical number by James Marsden and Neil Patrick Harris, which was accompanied by photos first of classical Hollywood scam marriages (Liza Minelli/David Guest, Spence/Heidi) then gay marriages (Ellen/Portia, Elton/David).

David Arquette sang "Single Ladies" with Dave Navarro, alumni from the casts of Rent did a stirring rendition of "Seasons of Love", Queen Latifah belted out her showstopper from Hairspray "I Know Where I've Been" and comedian Sarah Silverman sang a song I think was called "Cunt" (that was the most used word in the lyrics at least).

Recent Entertainment Weekly cover girl Jane

Lynch gave an award to Kathy Griffith who was

off the wall funny and outrageous (as usual). Griffith recently announced that she's going to donate her salary from her upcoming Gibson Amphitheatre show to Trevor, and commented, "I see Google and Levi's gave $15,000 - well they can suck my dick, I'm giving way more and I'm an individual." She then lifted up her award and announced, "That's right I bought this award!"

Levi's also received an award during the evening for their years of LGBT support, including their work in the 1980's during the HIV/AIDS early days. Someone leaned over to me at our table and said, "Makes you want to buy Levi's doesn't it?" after the presentation.

Hot Hollywood hunk Josh Duhamel presented with Fergie - not his girlfriend - Jesse Tyler Ferguson from Modern Family, who cooed over the hottie. Jessica Alba and Justin Long also made an appearance introducing a mother and son who were highly affected by The Trevor Project. The mother/son spoke about calling the Trevor Project hotline - a call that ultimately saved the boy's life. They were both in tears, and the crowd stood to their feet.

Other celeb presenters included Anna Kendrick and Emma Stone (two of my favorite young up and coming actresses) and Amy Poehler.

We also heard from a young lady who had been so bullied and rejected by her family, that she moved onto the streets, turned to drugs, joined a gang and was raped - all before finding her way of that environment. "If it can happen to a nice girl from Beverly Hills," she warned as she told her story. She is currently a volunteer at The Trevor Project having committed her life now to helping other young people avoid tragedy.

LGBT teens are 8 times more likely to attempt suicide. Sarah Silverman explained it pretty well invideo response to the recent rash of teen suicides..

Here's some photos from the rest of the evening:

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Get connected with The Trevor Project at their Facebook page.

Democratic Voting Guide

2010-11-02T11:18:00.001-07:00

If you're LGBT, in this election cycle there is no other way to vote in California than Democratic, since the GOP has vowed quite vocally to fight to take away our rights.

Click here for Equality California's Voting Guides.

Click here to access the California Democrats voting guide for the Propositions.

Click here for the Stonewall Young Democrats' voting guide.

Click here to see the Human Rights Campaign's national candidate endorsements.

Gay Photo of the Day

2010-10-29T16:26:00.000-07:00

courtesy of the McDonald's drive thru.

Outfest Legacy Awards - Photos and Video

2010-10-22T18:24:00.001-07:00

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Gay Video of the Week

2010-10-14T10:28:00.000-07:00

Joel Burns from Ft Worth takes a moment at a council meeting this week to address the issue of gay bullying - with a surprisingly honest and heart wrenching address that has become viral on social sites such as Facebook because of it's deeply moving and personal address of the issue.

A must watch.

If you haven't done so already, please take the time to record and post your own "It Gets Better" campaign video and post it to the internet. The "It Gets Better" campaign was started by Dan Savage to support The Trevor Project by creating videotaped messages to lgbt youth incorporated with personal messages urging them to stay strong and reach out for support during tough times.

In the last few weeks, thousands of celebrities and and common folk have uploaded their own videos. From the funny, to the heartfelt, from straight teenagers to Ellen Degeneres, these viral videos are everywhere and from everyone.

Hear Dan talk about the program on NPR: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=130519806

Join their page on FB at: http://www.facebook.com/pages/It-Gets-Better-Project/158071744210603?ref=ts

And upload your video on their web site: http://www.itgetsbetterproject.com/

Melissa Etheridge to Perform at VIP Luncheon for Barbara Boxer in LA - Attend with me!

2010-09-22T07:50:00.000-07:00

Out rock singer Melissa Etheridge is set to appear and perform at a small VIP fundraiser for Barbara Boxer this Saturday at a private home in the fancy-schmancy Los Angeles suburb of Hidden Hills.

There's two reasons why you need to click on the link below and purchase a ticket (while they last, attendance is limited!).

1) You know we need to start dropping all our cash into LGBT friendly candidates or we're even more screwed than we are now. You might as well give and get something fabulous while you're doing it.

2) She's single ladies. Ah-hem, you know.

Click here to purchase your tickets for either $200, $2400 or $5,000 and a special student rate is also available.

The event is hosted by Rhea Perlman and Danny DeVito.

See you there, kitty cats!
(click on image to enlarge invitation)

Lady Gaga goes on Personal Mission to Overturn Don't Ask, Don't Tell - brings her little monsters along

2010-09-20T13:30:00.001-07:00

This has got to be the most strangely life affirming development for me in American politics in a while.

And from a woman who wore a raw meat dress to an awards show recently, where she thanked "the gays" upon accepting one of her numerous trophies for her recording and video work.

Lady Gaga - the most followed entertainer on Twitter - has made it her personal mission to fight to repeal Don't Ask, Don't Tell. And she's urging her loyal fans, who she calls her "little monsters" to do the same with tweets that ask them to call their Senators.

So many of her Little Monsters, aka fans, phoned Senate Majority Leader Reid, it even evoked a response from him, and now she's taking on Senator McCain who has committed to leading a filibuster of the Tuesday DADT vote:

From the tweet desk of Ms Gaga:

"SENATOR JOHN MCCAIN is attempting to stop the DON'T ASK DON'T TELL repeal vote this tuesday, with a filibuster. A Filibuster is a way to obstruct the Senate Floor from discussing or voting on a given LAW, + is essentially a tactic to hijack our debate. All hands on deck Lil Monsters: Key senate vote this Tues. on #DADT repeal. We need 60 senators. Call your senator now."

With these tweets, I strongly suspect she is doing more to educate the youth of America on the fundamentals of how the government works than the public school system. She's like the School House Rock of our generation!

Gaga is even performing at a rally today in Maine - the state where their GOP Senators are currently wavering on whether to support the planned filibuster of the 2011 National Defense Authorization Act which needs 60 votes to move it to the Senate floor for a vote tomorrow.

SEE THE GAGA CONCERT IN MAINE LIVE TODAY AT 4 pm Pacific here:

To read more about this from the New York Magazine, click here.

I'm going to Itunes now to buy her latest album. Odd as she is, this is really an incredible use of her fame for a very much needed law. Our gay brothers and sisters need our help = they cannot speak out for themselves and they are being crushed in a million ways because of this horrid DADT policy. Kudos to Gaga.

Lily Tomlin to Perform August 7th

2010-08-07T12:03:00.000-07:00

Out lesbian icon Lily Tomlin to perform at a benefit to free Billy from the LA Zoo. Inconic out comedian and writer Bruce Vilanch will also perform.

This is beyond a good cause - I'm mortified that this poor elephant is stuck at the LA Zoo. If you are a fan of Lily's, please attend. It is such a worthy cause. Click on invite above for more information or to purchase tickets.

36500 Reasons to See RENT at the Hollywood Bowl

2010-08-07T08:46:00.000-07:00

I went to this show on Friday night and it is just fantastic! I'm going again on Sunday night, and I highly recommend it.

Neil Patrick Harris directs this production, with new arrangements.

Not all the performances strike it over the moon, but as a whole, definitely a moving experience and some really fun, stand out numbers.

Click on the photo to purchase tickets and also, check out the youtube video of one of the performances from Friday evening.

Clip from Friday night's performance: TAKE ME FOR WHAT I AM

RULING- PROP 8 UNCONSTITUTIONAL!

2010-08-04T13:43:00.000-07:00

I downloaded a pdf of the ruling, and here are some of the highlights:

___
Moral disapproval alone is an improper basis on which to
deny rights to gay men and lesbians. The evidence shows
conclusively that Proposition 8 enacts, without reason, a private moral view that same-sex couples are inferior to opposite-sex couples. FF 76, 79-80; Romer, 517 US at 634 (“[L]aws of the kind now before us raise the inevitable inference that the disadvantage imposed is born of animosity toward the class of persons
affected.”). Because Proposition 8 disadvantages gays and lesbians without any rational justification, Proposition 8 violates the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment.

CONCLUSION
Proposition 8 fails to advance any rational basis in
singling out gay men and lesbians for denial of a marriage license.

Indeed, the evidence shows Proposition 8 does nothing more than
enshrine in the California Constitution the notion that opposite-
sex couples are superior to same-sex couples. Because California
has no interest in discriminating against gay men and lesbians, and
because Proposition 8 prevents California from fulfilling its
constitutional obligation to provide marriages on an equal basis,
the court concludes that Proposition 8 is unconstitutional.

REMEDIES
Plaintiffs have demonstrated by overwhelming evidence
that Proposition 8 violates their due process and equal protection
rights and that they will continue to suffer these constitutional
violations until state officials cease enforcement of Proposition
8. California is able to issue marriage licenses to same-sex
couples, as it has already issued 18,000 marriage licenses to same-
sex couples and has not suffered any demonstrated harm as a result,
see FF 64-66; moreover, California officials have chosen not to
defend Proposition 8 in these proceedings.
Because Proposition 8 is unconstitutional under both the
Due Process and Equal Protection Clauses, the court orders entry of
judgment permanently enjoining its enforcement; prohibiting the
official defendants from applying or enforcing Proposition 8 and
directing the official defendants that all persons under their
control or supervision shall not apply or enforce Proposition 8.
The clerk is DIRECTED to enter judgment without bond in favor of
plaintiffs and plaintiff-intervenors and against defendants and
defendant-intervenors pursuant to FRCP 58.
IT IS SO ORDERED.

VAUGHN R WALKER
United States District Chief Judge

THE VIEW Makes Stunning Discovery - Older Lesbians Just Could Not Find A Man

2010-07-27T12:20:00.001-07:00

A MARINE STORY Sweeps LA Outfest Awards

2010-07-19T08:50:00.000-07:00

OUTFEST ANNOUNCES 2010 AWARD WINNERS
28TH LOS ANGELES GAY & LESBIAN FILM FESTIVAL

LOS ANGELES, CA (July 18, 2010) - Outfest, the Los Angeles-based nonprofit organization dedicated to nurturing, showcasing and protecting lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) media, has announced the award winners of its 28th Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Film Festival.

Special Programming Award for Freedom
Sponsored by ONEHOPE Wine
THE TOPP TWINS, Directed by Leanne Pooley

Special Programming Award for Artistic Achievement
Sponsored by The Los Angeles Athletic Club
UNDERTOW (CONTRACORRIENTE), Directed by Javier Fuentes-Leon

Special Programming Award for Emerging Talent
Sponsored by Kodak
Drew Droege, Actor

Audience Awards

Audience Award for Outstanding Documentary Short Film
Sponsored by CRE – Computer Rentals & AV Solutions
I’M JUST ANNEKE, Directed by Jonathan Skurnik

Audience Award for Outstanding Dramatic Short Film
Sponsored by Entertainment Partners
YOU MOVE ME, Directed by Gina Hirsch

Audience Award for Outstanding Documentary Feature Film
Sponsored by Yellow Cab
FOREVER’S GONNA START TONIGHT, Directed by Michelle Lawler

Audience Award for Outstanding Dramatic Feature Film
Sponsored by Overture Films
A MARINE STORY, Directed by Ned Farr

Audience Award for Outstanding First U.S. Dramatic Feature Film
Sponsored by HBO (cash prize of $5,000 from HBO)
THE FOUR-FACED LIAR, Directed by Jacob Chase

Jury Awards

Grand Jury Award for Outstanding Documentary Short Film
Sponsored by Stella Artois
CLOSE (POD BLUZKA), Directed by Lucia Von Horn Pagano

Grand Jury Award for Outstanding Dramatic Short Film
Sponsored by Wolfe
SAMARITAN, Directed by Magnus Mork

Grand Jury Award for Outstanding Documentary Feature Film
Sponsored by The Directors Guild of America
STRANGE POWERS: STEPHIN MERRITT & THE MAGNETIC FIELDS, Directed by Kerthy Fix and Gail O’Hara

Grand Jury Award for Outstanding International Dramatic Feature Film
Sponsored by Absolut
THE SECRET DIARIES OF MISS ANNE LISTER, Directed by James Kent

Grand Jury Award for Outstanding Actress in a Feature Film
Sponsored by The Standard Hotel, Downtown and Sunset Blvd.
Dreya Weber, A MARINE STORY

Grand Jury Award for Outstanding Actor in a Feature Film
Sponsored by Ramada West Hollywood
Stephen Guarino, BEARCITY

Grand Jury Award for Outstanding Screenwriting
Sponsored by APA Talent and Literary Agency
Douglas Langway and Lawrence Ferber, BEARCITY

Grand Jury Award for Outstanding U.S. Dramatic Feature Film
Sponsored by Lexus
A MARINE STORY, Directed by Ned Farr

I'm Just In the Mood for Some Cute Little Animals

2010-07-02T17:59:00.001-07:00

I'm taking a break today from reporting on LGBT film and politics to just share with you some of my favorite photos from my facebook friends (they're not professional photos - they're just the gays and their furry friends)

You can join the Facebook fun as well here: http://www.facebook.com/TheSmokingCocktail

Happy Fourth of July Everyone! Remember to just celebrate at 60% to coincide with the amount of rights you have compared to straight American citizens.

The Kids Are All Right - Pre Release Party

2010-07-01T16:45:00.001-07:00

All the LGBT's turned out last night to O Bar in West Hollywood, to show support for - and grab some goodies from - the new lesbian themed film The Kids Are All Right, at the pre release party/celebration co-hosted by TheSmokingCocktail.com, DIVA and Focus Features.

The film stars Annette Bening and Julianne Moore as a long term lesbian couple who get an interesting new visitor to the family fold when their teenaged children decide to track down their previously anonymous sperm donor (Mark Ruffalo).

The film is co-written and directed by out lesbian Lisa Cholodenko, who also helmed the iconic sapphic indie High Art, as well as Laurel Canyon.

Last night, everyone got to look at a special behind-the scenes video on the making of this film, including some exclusive clips - and a few lucky folks even got free screening passes to see the film at the Arclight Hollywood next week. Everyone else grabbed the fabulous crew neck t's and tanks of the film, while the studio reps asked attendees to write down "what makes a family to you?" (see picts!).

The Kids Are All Right premiered in January at the Sundance Film Festival - one of the most anticipated indie flicks there without a distributor attached. This lead to quite the feeding frenzy, with bids coming in from all the majors. Focus Features won out and payed the highest price tag of any film at Sundance this year - $7 million - and planned from the start to sneak this quirky family dra-omedy out during the big blockbuster summer months. Focus also released Brokeback Mountain.

With Entertainment Weekly recently reporting a sharp decline in ticket sales to big, blockbuster movies and franchises as compared to last year, Focus is hoping this film will sneak in and appeal to those looking for something NOT in 3D at the multi-plex and hopefully be a runaway hit like other Sundance alums Little Miss Sunshine and Juno - which also share this film's quirky, heart-felt style.

This is all good news for us gays who will be happy with the exposure that comes from two A-listers portraying a lesbian couple.

Annette Bening and Julianne Moore absolutely shine in this film. Folks - especially lesbians - will no doubt be debating who stole the show (I say Moore, most of my friends have said Bening), in what can best be described as an actor's piece. The directing style is naturalistic and allows all the performers to really settle into their characters and move about.

Bening plays Nic, a doctor who has a love of fine wine and a bit of a control issue. Her partner Jules, played by Moore, is more of a hippy-esque, earthy-crunchy lesbian who - having been tasked as the stay at home mom - now feels insecure and aimless as her kids are are at the cusp of leaving the nest. It's hard for Jules to succeed at any business or interest, with the perfect Nic there to always over-shadow her. This provides a fertile ground for what comes next when the kids bring their "donor-dad" into the household.

Mark Ruffalo plays Paul, the sperm donor. Paul is a bit of a man-child, who still enjoys his free-spirited bachelor ways while managing a successful organic restaurant in what looks to be Silverlake. He makes his own rules, and has probably managed to get away with that his whole life off his looks, charms and hard work.

After meeting the two teenagers, Paul realizes he's never made any connection to anyone, and this family seems to be the insta-fix for that, even though he has a girlfriend willing to take the leap with him.

What follows is an exercise in the gray areas of life, where you're never quite sure who the good guy is. Everyone in this movie - as in real life - makes mistakes. Hence the marketing of the film as a pitch-perfect family film - it's hard to imagine anyone's family not identifying with this posse - the couple may be lesbian, the issue may be donor-dad, but the touchstones of today's American family are the foundation for sure.

Lesbians are especially going to enjoy seeing the epitome of lesbianism displayed every five minutes or so - shockingly without ever even bordering on cliche.

As much as we can call this a "Lesbian film" or "Family film", you can throw in "Foodie Film" as well, as they're is so much screen time given to organic gardening, family cooking and wine, I was driven nearly to madness wanting to immediately rush home to plant my own tomatoes, peppers and spices.

The film is far from perfect, since I think it operates successfully on an intellectual level, but perhaps not in a traditional feel-good level in the narrative (people makes mistakes!). It does however have a wonderful, refreshing style to it - very naturalistic in it's shooting aesthetic, choice of locations and the dearth of movie-make-up on the leads. Also, one of my favorite parts is the most absolutely dead-on descriptions - deconstruction, if you will - of why lesbians like gay male porn that I have ever heard!

(pictured, my description of what family means to me)

Catch the trailer below after the party picts, then see the film July 9th (for god's sake, opening weekend would be nice - remember your ticket sale shows the Hollywood system that GAY sells!), and come back and share your thoughts.

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Los Angeles Gay & Lesbian Chamber Mixer

2010-07-01T14:33:00.001-07:00

Tonight, The Los Angeles Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce is having one of their famous First Thursday networking mixers in the Valley.

As a special for TheSmokingCocktail.com readers, if you mention my name at the door (JD), the entry fee will be waived!

First Thursday Mixer @ Valley Inn Restaurant & Bar
FROM: LAGLCC.org
Date: July 01, 2010
Address: 4557 Sherman Oaks Avenue, Sherman Oaks, CA

Please join us at the Valley Inn Restaurant & Bar and get an early start on the 4th of July weekend.

Enjoy a tantalizing array of complimentary appetizers in the company of LAGLCC members and friends.

Dress is Business Casual.

Time: 6:30pm - 9:30pm

Admission is FREE for VIP LAGLCC members
$5 for everyone else

Lady Gaga and Madonna - The Side by Side Comparison

2010-06-29T16:49:00.000-07:00

The side by side comparison - this is pretty hysterical.

THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT - special pre release bash in Los Angeles

2010-06-24T11:23:00.001-07:00

Click on image to enlarge invite - special kick off party including great giveaways from the studio including t shirts, tanks, and special advanced screening tickets - as well as DVD box sets of the new Pride Collection from Fox Studios.

We'll also be screening exclusive behind the scenes footage of the making of this film, along with advance sneak peaks at clips from the film.

A MARINE STORY Premieres in San Francisco at The Castro

2010-06-20T12:36:00.000-07:00

We had a world premiere last night at the Castro Theatre at Frameline. Here's the photos of the entire day at the film festival, including the big premier screening of A MARINE STORY at the Castro, and the after party at Orso.

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

The Lovely Ladies of CURVE MAGAZINE and their Soiree for the Lesbian Film Makers at Frameline

2010-06-19T09:56:00.001-07:00

The who's who of the lesbian business world appeared en masse at last evening's CURVE MAGAZINE party in San Francisco, celebrating the lesbian film makers of the Frameline International LGBT Film Festival.

I have to say, I was thrilled to finally meet face-to-face the lovely ladies who make this magazine happen every month, and they are just as smart and nice as you'd suspect!

(picture left, Frank Mastronuzzi and entourage)

Also in attendance was the Godmother of queer cinema, Kathy Wolfe of Wolfe Video with her partner Barb, the Director of Frameline Jennifer Morris, Shirin Papillon from OML.com, Frank Mastronuzzi from the lgbt dating site OneGoodLove.com, Andrea Krauss from the here! gay television network/studio, and a whole gaggle of wonderfully creative film makers from the festival.

The cuisine was my favorite - french fries and champagne! Fabs darling.

(pictured left, Kathy Wolfe and partner Barb)

The talk of the day was the festival screening of THE OWLS which was to screen after the party at the Castro. OWLS stands for Older Wiser Lesbian, and the film is the new feature film from queer cinema's grand dames of the '90's Cheryl Dunye (The Watermelon Woman) and Guinevere Turner (Go Fish). It was made by The Collaborative - which is a group of creative artists and film makers that worked together to make this low budget film happen, handmade if you will, with everyone contributing.

(pictured, Andrea Krauss from here! tv loves the latest issue!)

I was also thrilled to see the star of A MARINE STORY, the lovely and charming Dreya Weber. She's been jet setting around the world with her theatre and concert endeavors and I haven't seen her in months - other than on the Grammy program in the infamous PINK aerial number (Dreya is the aerial choreographer for PINK, as well as Cher, Britany Spears, Michael Jackson's THIS IS IT and others!)

A MARINE STORY is having it's world premiere at the Castro theatre this Saturday and we're all very excited, and a bit nervous.

Managing and Associate editors Rachel Shatto and Kristin Smith from CURVE introduced me to their new set of fresh faced interns for the mag - who all started this week! (pictured left).

I offered my own advise of how I train my interns (it's a combination of the drill Sergeant from Full Metal Jacket, and Alec Baldwin from Glengary Glen Ross), but I think they're opting for a kinder, gentler approach.

I had so many lovely conversations about films, gay rights and the like - wonderful party, fabulous peeps.

Very sedate considering I suspect this evening's big party at Orson's, hosted by Dinah Shore diva Mariah Hanson is going to be OFF THE HOOK, especially since the cast and crew of A MARINE STORY is driving up and they are a wild bunch!

Tune in tomorrow for news, dish, gossip and the censored photos from our world premiere!

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Photos from Last Night's TheSmokingCocktail.com Salutes the Film Makers from Outfest 2010

2010-06-17T20:03:00.001-07:00

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Professional photos by Brian Putnam

Lesbian Flicks Big on Circuit - Two Open Big Film Festivals

2010-06-17T09:06:00.000-07:00

Today marks the opening kick-off at two premier film festivals - The Los Angeles Film Festival and Frameline - The San Francisco International LGBT Film Festival. Both have their Opening Night Galas this evening and - shocker alert - both gave the top festival programming spot to a LESBIAN FILM!

The LAFF kicks off with The Kids Are Alright - Lisa Cholodenko's (High Art) new flick starring Annette Bening and Julianne Moore, and Frameline has The Secret Diary of Miss Anne Lister from the BBC.

This is a little on the monumental side, since there is always a dearth of quality lesbian flicks out there to begin with, and now there's TWO and they are so good, they are nabbing that prime festival opening night slot.

These are two queer films you CAN'T miss, especially if you are a film lover, because they are both fantastic films.

The Kids Are Alright premiered at The Sundance Film Festival in January and provoked a bidding war that made it the biggest sale of the fest. The studio is banking on it sneaking in this summer between all the big blockbusters and appealing to the art house crowd.

The film is absolutely fantastic - completely polished in every way. Bening and Moore play a lesbian couple with two teenage children - both from the same sperm donor, both moms carrying one of them. When the daughter turns 18, she reluctantly is pressured by her younger brother into contacting their sperm donor - enter devil may care Mark Rufallo and as the saying goes, comedy ensues.

(pictured, director Cholodenko at premier with Moore)

With two stellar performances from the leads, lesbians will no doubt debate who steals the show in this film, but my fav was Julianne Moore. Her character is fumbling to find her own self in the shadow of her rich, doctor wife. Bening is the control freak and provider, who is shaken and stirred with the arrival of the charming donor who seems to sweep in and threaten her perfect family structure - as much as it was in needing of a little shaking up.

The directions is spot on - the film is funny and charming, and nails the lesbian family scene without falling into cliche, and still beaming with familiar sappho tendencies we'll all recognize. (and a perfect explanation/deconstruction of why lesbians like gay male porn!)

When we enter Rufallo's world, it's like porn for foodies. He owns a restaurant in Silverlake, and spends his time in the organic market or picking wine, when he's not taking his new kids out for a ride on his motorcycle!

I wanted to hate the BBC production, The Secret Diary of Miss Anne Lister - with all it's Jane Austen airs and bustles and and pick-up lines like, "So do you like Byron?", but midway in it sucked me in. One of the most anticipated queer films of the season, Lister follows the exploits of the title character as she makes her way through a man's world, while refusing to conform.

There's plenty of sex, and plenty of drama in this high gloss production, that spans decades in the author's life. She starts out in a situation that seems all too familiar to lesbians - in love with a woman who decides she must keep face by marrying a man. So it's sex, tears and lesbian drama for the first act. Then, Lister has to decide whether to continue waiting for her soul mate, or to move on with perhaps one of her many love interests, all the while battling with male land barons who try to descend on her estate.

FILM FESTIVAL PREVIEW: Eyes Wide Open

2010-06-15T23:02:00.000-07:00

Starting this week, I'll be previewing the films from the upcoming Los Angeles Film Festival, Frameline Film Festival and OUTFEST.

To start off, a wonderful gay film NOT playing at Outfest but at the Los Angeles Film Festival, which kicks off this Thursday evening with the screening of Lisa Cholodenko's new feature, The Kids Are Alright (check back tomorrow for a review!).

Eyes Wide Open is set in Jerusalem and involves two Orthodox Jewish men who fall in love.

Aaron is a devout father of four, and he is confused by his growing attraction to his new apprentice, Ezri. Their relationship develops into a sexual one, leading Aaron to struggle with the harsh polarity between his religious beliefs and that of his heart.

The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival. Intense is putting it lightly - a deeply emotional film. Catch the trailer the below.

It plays Sunday, June 20th at 7:00 pm, and again no Thursday, June 24th at 10:00 PM. Tickets can be purchased by clicking here for the LAFF site.

Saturday - Welcome Home the Peddlers after their 7 Day Journey

2010-06-11T23:48:00.000-07:00

What better way to celebrate Pride in SoCal than to greet the more than 1,926 riders as they arrive in Los Angeles after a grueling 545 mile bike ride from San Francisco - a journey made to raise money and awareness for The LA Gay & Lesbian Center and the San Francisco AIDS Foundation with the annual AIDS/Lifecycle 9 (ALC).

Peddlers arrive home starting at around 11 am and trickle in all day gathering at 4 pm for the Closing Ceremony.

It's been a long, 7 day journey that people describe as both inspirational and exhausting. Around 500 volunteers - or "Roadies" as they're called - are also along to provide support (and entertainment) to those who ride - which consists of a mix of LGBT and straight people from all over the country.

The ride has been going on over twenty years now, and it is a right of passage for most LGBT people in Los Angeles. The physically shredding experience, combined with the sense of a common goal and unity, along with the inspiration provided by groups like Pos Peddlers, creates an almost euphoric, community experience. All while raising much needed cash to support those living with HIV/AIDS.

Many riders tell tales of buckets of tears from both pain and from inspiration. The cyclists spend most of their days on the road, while the Roadies provide welcome rest stops along with way, and the set up and management of the Wysteria Lanes of gay tent camp sites at night, replete with hot meals, massages and doctors on call for medical checks.

(photos courtesy of the Los Angeles Gay & Lesbian Center)

Personally, I'm waiting for the marathon LGBT fundraiser that involves sitting on a couch for days, eating bon-bons and watching back to back episodes of "The Golden Girls" - something I'm immeasurably more qualified to engage in.

To give you an idea of the mileage, the first day - Sunday - was a 79 miles ride. The second day was 108 miles. If cyclists cramp up or crash out, there are Sag Vans around to pick them up and drive them to the next rest stop. But there are plenty of cheerleaders to encourage most to "keep pushing through!"

Day 5 is red dress day - where all the cyclists don their most flowing gowns. Many of the riders indulge in fabulous outfits the entire time, but the red dress day evolved from the idea that seeing all the riders at a distance, with the winds would emulate a red ribbon (traditionally worn to show support for people living with HIV/AIDS).

The bonding that occurs and the friendships made, last a life time, as participants rave about the unconditional support and "hugs" from all around them to "keep going!"

There's a very moving Candlelight Vigil on Day 6 to remember all those we've lost to HIV/AIDS. It happens on the beach, overlooking the ocean. At this point, the end is near and emotions are high. The sense of remembering those we have lost, and also provide a loving community for those living with HIV, sends people to tears.

The Closing Ceremonies are this evening at 4 pm, follow this link for information and see you there!

Outfest Kick Off Party: TheSmokingCoctail.com Salutes the Film Makers of this Year's Festival

2010-06-10T11:30:00.000-07:00

Historic Event as Mayor of Los Angeles hosts "the gays" at his house to Celebrate Pride

2010-06-07T09:53:00.000-07:00

Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa hosted a Garden Party on Sunday afternoon at his home - the official Mayoral mansion The Getty - in honor of Gay Pride Month.

It is the first time a gay event has ever been held at the Mayor's house, and several hundred attendees were there including out gay actors Doug Spearman (Noah's Arc), Daniella Sea (The L Word), Jack Plotnick and Pride Parade's Grand Marshall's Sharon and Kelly Osbourne, along with Sheryl Lee Ralph, Ivy Bottini, Oscar winning screenwriter Dustin Lance Black (Milk), Oscar winning producer Bruce Cohen (Milk, American Beauty) and the hosts of PRIDE here in Los Angeles, CSW (Christopher Street West), who this year are celebrating 40 Years of producing LA Pride. The event was also jammed packed with gay politicos and community leaders from all over Southern California.

The event was MC-ed by the always stunning and entertaining Momma, and produced by Chad Hudson Events.

Villaraigosa noted that this may be the first time an official gay party has been held here, but unofficially he claims all his family reunions are also big gay parties (he has several gay relatives, including State Assembly Speaker John A Perez, his cousin, who also spoke at the event).

Villaraigosa has been a strong supporter of lgbt rights in Los Angeles. He donated $30,000 to the No On Prop 8 initiative himself, and after the marriage ban passed, he was instrumental in providing vital leeway in allowing marches and protests. For eight days following the passage of Prop 8 (making marriage legal only between a man and a woman), he approved police support for the marches that occurred all over the city, so protesters would be protected, and not detained or arrested which made it possible for large and long showings of support for our community.

The Getty House is a historical site, having been built in 1921 in the Windsor Square area of Hancock Park and designed by the same architects who did Grauman's Chinese and Egyptian Theatres in Hollywood. The house became the official home of the Mayor in 1973, when Mayor Tom Bradley took residence for 16 years - which was a milestone because decades prior, African Americans were prohibited from buying property in this area (similar laws were in place all over the city which also banned Asian Americans from buying property in certain areas).

On the day of the brunch, the gay rainbow flags were proudly hung in the front along with the state and country flags.

The highlight of the event for me was the chocolate cheesecakes on a stick, and getting to meet the resident pound dog Monkey, who belongs to the Mayor's girlfriend, Lu Parker. I'm always thrilled to meet a rescue pup! Also, Kelly Osbourne complimented me on my glasses and asked the name of the place I got them (Old Focals, in Pasadena - where Johnny Depp has been getting his glasses for years!). She was a bit hit at the party since she looked particularly stunning.

Even in the sweltering heat of the Southern California sun, the attendees had an absolute blast, and it was a great honor to have official recognition of Gay Pride, thanks to the work of CSW.

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Sneak Peak at the films of Outfest 2010

2010-06-03T23:32:00.001-07:00

It's upon us! LGBT Film Festival season, kicking off with Frameline in San Francisco and Newfest in New York this month, then Outfest in Los Angeles next month. Then they'll all be coming to YOUR local LGBT film festival wherever you are, and here's your first sneak peak at the new crop of LGBT feature documentaries and narratives:

The Social Pages - Photos from SoCal Events & Parties

2010-05-27T10:08:00.000-07:00

Lesbian Attack! Gives Back!
Fundraiser for the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center at the Geisha House in Hollywood
co hosted by The YPC

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Gay For Good - May Volunteering at Vermont Square for Harvey Milk Day
with Mayor's office and Tree People.

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Liberty Hill Foundation: Upton Sinclair Dinner, May 2010

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

WE HAVE TO STOP NOW - web series - premier party and screening for season two, with stars and executive producers Cathy DeBuono and Jill Bennett

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

AN EVENING WITH WOMEN
Benefit for the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center, hosted by Linda Perry, Brent Bolthouse and Shannon Del with appearances by Rene Zelwegger, Sarah Silverman and Pink

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

GLAAD 2010 Media Awards, Los Angeles

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

September 26th, Point Foundation Gala with Cherry Jones, Lily Tomlin, Michael Emerson, Carrie Preston, Frenchie Davis and more. Hollywood Renaissance Hotel.

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Andrea Meyerson's Drag Queen Comedy for LOGO

Drag Queen Comedy in Santa Monica, with Coco Peru, Varla Jean and Jackie Beat

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

TheSmokingCocktail.com Third Wednesday LGBT Professionals Mixer at O Bar

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Lesbian Comics at East/West with Jennie McNulty, Pat Branch and Bridget McManus

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Liberty Hill Foundation has UPTON SINCLAIR DINNER this Thursday

2010-05-18T14:49:00.000-07:00

The motto of The Liberty Hill Foundation is "change, not charity", and they are going celebrate this year's work on Thursday when they bestow honors at the Upton Sinclair Dinner at the Hyatt Regency Century City.

The host committee includes several LGBT activists including actors Doug Spearman and Tony Tripoli along with Judith Light and Rick Jacobs.

There will be a reception and silent auction followed by the dinner where several awards will be given.

Ms Michelle Satter - the Founding Director of the Sundance Institute Feature Film Program will present the Upton Sinclair Award to writer Walter Mosley.

One of Bill Clinton's favorite authors, Mosley grew up in Watts and went on to be a highly prolific writer with an emphasis on racism, corruption and economic injustices African Americans face. He currently teaches English at New York University. Mosley currently has a project at HBO with Jonathan Demme called The Long Fall, based on his detective series.

The Founders Award will go to philanthropists John Manulis and Liz Heller and be presented by Emmy winning producer/director Paris Barclay. The Wally Marks Changemaker Award will go to the organization InnerCity Struggle, founded in 1994 to organize young people in East Los Angeles.

For tickets, please visit their official web site.

Upcoming LGBT Events in SoCal

2010-05-18T14:36:00.000-07:00

Come out for a drink and a laugh (or 2 or 3) at Extra Criticum Brevity Fest II, featuring writers, actors and musicians exposing themselves completely as they share some of their latest stuff with each other and with you. (nobody's on stage for more than 5 min... imagine that!)
When: Thursday, June 3, at 7:30pm.
Where: El Cid, 4212 Sunset Boulevard in Silverlake. (323) 668-0318.
Cover: $10. Menu includes full bar and great Spanish food. No drink minimum. Order what you like.

Email your NAME and the NUMBER in your party to: tickets@pinkplot.com

Joan Armatrading comes to
the Long Beach Performing Arts Center
Saturday, August 7
8 pm Tickets:
$85 VIP
$45, $35 Buy your tickets now!

TICKETS to The Prom will be $10 and available for purchase at the door (credit cards will be accepted). Guest arrival and socializing is scheduled from 2- 5 PM. Prom festivities are from 5-9 PM. This is a 21+ event, ID required at entry. The W Hotel is located at 421 West B Street at State St., downtown San Diego.
Presale tickets are available here

Tickets and info, click here.

WHAT: THE NORMAL HEART
25th Anniversary staged reading
Written by Larry Kramer
Directed by Joel Grey
Produced by the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center’s Lily Tomlin/Jane Wagner Cultural Arts Center and David Youse
Benefiting the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center’s Jeffrey Goodman Special Care Clinic

WHERE: The Geffen Playhouse
10886 Le Conte Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90024-3021

WHEN: Monday, May 17 at 8 p.m.
Pre-performance reception at 6 p.m.

TICKETS: VIP $250 (Includes reserved seating and pre- and post-show receptions)
$100 (Includes preferred seating)
$50 (General admission)
Available online at www.lagaycenter.org/thenormalheart

Life Out Loud 5

Celebrate Pride by Supporting LGBTQ Youth

Saturday June 12, 2010

5-8 p.m.

Sunset Gower Studios
6040 Sunset Blvd.
Hollywood, CA 90028

Life Out Loud is an annual cocktail party to kick off pride and to benefit LifeWorks,
a youth development and mentoring program at the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center.

Join us as a Host or Sponsor! Please call 323-860-7373
or email Michael at MFerrera@lagaycenter.org

VIP tickets already SOLD OUT, click here quick to buy other tiered tickets.

Purchase tickets here.

Thursdays at Hamburger Mary's, WeHo

Saturday, March 20th
Brunch & Bellinis
benefitting The Trevor Project

Thursday, March 25

Taste on Melrose

The Trevor Project

Sunday, March 28

A Taste of the Mazer!
An afternoon of Lesbian, Feminist & Queer Culture
to celebrate Marcia Schwemer's 60th birthday and
20 years of volunteering for the Mazer Archives.

The festivities will be held in the
all-access room below the Archives
626 N. Robertson Blvd., West Hollywood
Sunday, March 28, 2010 3-5pm.

Monday, April 5th
Laugh Out Loud
Lifeworks Mentoring at the LAGLC

Sunday, April 11th

ROCK IN For Equality

The LA Gay & Lesbian Center

Every First Wednesday of the Month

Hollywood Improv on Melrose

Gays R Us

At the theatre:

Showtime set to premiere the Real L Word on June 20th

2010-05-18T07:17:00.000-07:00

You probably saw them filming all over Dinah Shore Weekend, and if you live in LA you've certainly bumped into the camera crew at some of the lesbian hot spots. Well, Showtime has finally released the first trailer and some clips from Ilene Chaiken's follow up to THE L WORD, entitled, THE REAL L WORD.

The show will premiere on Showtime on June 20th.

In this new show, Chaiken teamed up with a hit reality show company to follow the exploits of 6 lesbians living in Los Angeles.
Watch the sneak peak here.

This Wednesday

2010-05-15T16:21:00.001-07:00

Web Series WE HAVE TO STOP NOW premieres Second Season in Hollywood

2010-05-05T14:24:00.000-07:00

Sunday afternoon, the producers of the popular web series We Have To Stop Now hosted a lovely premiere of the second season over at The Village at Ed Gould Plaza/The LA Gay & Lesbian Center, replete with live musical performances, a red carpet arrival, a catered reception and a Q&A.

Stars and executive Producers Jill Bennett and Cathy DeBuono were on hand with the rest of the cast, and performers from the soundtrack including Jen Corday rocked out the reception. All episodes were shown back to back as a two hour movie.

The series is a lesbian comedy about two therapists who are married to each other, but have to go to another therapist - played by comedian Suzanne Westenhoefer - to solve their own problems. Which are many.

This season, they brought another therapist into the mix, played by Meredith Baxter. Several of the episodes were also shot aboard the Sweet Cruise line.

Here's the picts from the event, and you can join their facebook page here. To watch the show, WeHavetoStopNow.tv..

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Linda Perry and Co Bring Chique and Cool back to the Lesbian World with An Evening with Women

2010-05-04T11:41:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday night, The LA Gay & Lesbian Center's annual lesbian cornerstone fundraiser was held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, with performances by Pink, Linda Perry, Gina Gershon and Heart, and special appearances by Sarah Silverman and Renee Zellweger. The auditorium was filled with a who's who of lesbians in the LA community, rockers, celesbians and an unusual amount of gay men! A record $370,000 was raised for the organization.

This was Perry's second year at the helm of the event - joined by co chairs Brent Bolthouse and Shannon Del - and they knocked this event out of the park on all levels. The stage show alone was sensational, and the vibe they bring to this black tie event is a combination of rock n roll, upscale, laid-back yet sophisticated hip. Which is what you could expect when the opening number was Gershon belting out "What's New Pussycat?" whilst prancing across the stage.

Heart rocked out "Barracuda" and "Crazy on You", while Pink performed an astoundingly emotional "What's Up?" with Perry on acoustic guitar, and Sarah Silverman was her usual hysterically wrong with her comedy set.

Chef Jamie Lauren captained the kitchen and provided a welcome departure from the typical banquet fair, including vegan brownies which were my personal favorite!

Gershon and Perry commanded the live auction on stage, which riled up the entire place, and was entertaining in and of itself as they got $12,000 for a vespa signed by Pink - and adorned by Pink as she offered to pose for photos straddling the winner Heather Hinkee for a photo op on stage. Other live auction scores were a dinner cooked by Top Chef Jamie Lauren, a tattoo from LA Ink's Kat Von D and two recording sessions with Perry.

The Board of Directors of the Center gave a well-deserved award to LA activist Jewel Thais-Williams, who founded Jewel's Catch One in Los Angeles - the first African American gay club in the country.

Perry credited her friend and assistant Shannon Del with bringing her to the Center. Del recounted her own experiences coming to Los Angeles and finding the Center and it's services after being disowned by her family for being a lesbian. She shared on stage her experiences with drug and alcohol addiction brought on by the criticism and abandonment of her family, and how the Center's counseling services saved her life.

Perry is a powehouse by any standard - having rose to fame in the group 4 Non Blondes, then branching out to be a uber producer/songwriter with hits like "Beautiful" with Christina Aguilera and "Get This Party Started" for Pink. She's also written for Alicia Keys, Kelly Osbourne, Courtney Love and Gwen Stefani. Her energy and commitment to helping the Center has certainly yielded incredible results, and she made sure to thank her girlfriend, actress Clementine Ford for "putting up with me the last few months".

For a look inside, check out all the photos:

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A Good Time to be a Lesbian in SoCal

2010-04-28T14:23:00.000-07:00

Beep-beep, ding, tweet, there it goes all day long, my inbox filling up with lesbian invites.

Club nights, bingo, comedy, dinner parties, charity events and while I keep wondering where I'm going to find the time and outfits for all this, I can't help but remember when all we had in LA for the ladies when I was in my twenties was The Palms on Santa Monica Boulevard.

(pictured left, An Evening with Women, 2009)

In those days, everyone had a Palm's story. Generally having to do with some naive, new-to-LA woman cracking open the door and cautiously entering, easing onto a bar stool in what could be described as an atmosphere akin to a biker bar someone just past the train tracks. Followed by a burly woman with her wallet chained to her belt loop leaning over with a gravelly voice saying words that would haunt you for years in your nightmares.

As I traveled around the country to film festivals with my movies, I've managed to eyeball almost every city's version of this. I'm glad we've come out of the bars and the shadowy places, so today in spreading the word of some fun lesbian events coming up, I'll list a few lesbian resources for the SoCal ladies.

LESBIAN ATTACK

next one May 22nd

If you have not discovered this yet, and you live anywhere in SoCal and are a lesbian, go immediately to Facebook and join their group. Now. LesbianAttackonFacebook.

These ladies had the brilliant idea of secretly descending on a local LA hot spot - generally a SUPER STRAIGHT ONE - with over 200 lesbians about once every other month. Sometimes the numbers have actually reached close to 500!

The next Attack will actually be planned and for Charity. Don't miss this, it's a great deal, a tax write off and a super fun time. It's Lesbian Attack Gives Back, and it's cohosted by almost everyone in town to support the LA Gay and Lesbian Center.

SINGLE DE MAYO
Sunday, May 2nd
Every year, the ladies in LA get together to hook up and donate the money to charity.

This is a fun afternoon event with things like a kissing booth, dancing, a photo booth and celeb appearances. All proceeds this year benefit JQ International.

And I admit, it's fun to see lesbians in the daylight.

This year, the event is May 2nd from 2 - 7 pm

667 South June Street,

Los Angeles, CA 90005

With tickets running $15.
Their Facebook page is here.

AN EVENING WITH WOMEN

Saturday, May 1

This is the big, fancy black tie event for lesbians - and has been for decades! It used to be called Women's Night, but then Linda Perry took over and revamped it into an even bigger, glitzier fundraiser for the LA Gay & Lesbian Center.

This year, Heart will be there along with Gina Gershon, Rene Zelwegger, Sarah Silverman and probably some fun surprises, and certainly the entire who's who of lesbians in Los Angeles.

Perry produces the event with buddy Brent Bolthouse of LA nightlife fame, and this year my fellow vegan Shannon Del joined the mix.

Tickets are costly - but hey, that's the price to pay to be in the hip.

It'll cost ya $300 and the event is this Saturday, May 1st at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills. Cocktails and Silent Auction (and penultimate sappho schmoozing) starts at 6 pm with the dinner and show kicking in around 8 pm. Get your tickets now before they sell out.

For photos and video from last year's event, click here.

My gay boyfriends had so much fun at last year's, they all actually bought tickets this year!

GAYS R US
Every first Wednesday of the month at the historic Improv on Melrose

Big name comics perform here every month at what has to be the best kept secret in lgbt entertainment in Hollywood.

Tickets run around $15, and that'll get you a place to sit and chilax with your buds while nibbling on some fries and kicking back a few brewskies while seriously laughing your ass off (last month I actually for the first time in my life spit out my beer). The friend I brought even told me afterwards, "I feel high from laughing so much with all those endorphins!"

This isn't an amateur or try-out stage. Almost every comic has a Showtime, HBO, Logo or Comedy Central special under their belt.

Next Wednesday night, the infamous Julie Goldman is headlining. Star of The Big Gay Sketch Show, Goldman is in town from NY for a rare LA appearance.

Check it out any first Wednesday night with comics including Andre Kelly, Poppy Champlin, Sandra Valls, Liz Feldman, Bridget McManus, Suzanne Westenhoefer, Justin Martindale, Daniel Leary, Jennie McNulty, Jason Dudey and more. The evening is usually hosted by the producer, comic/actress Erin Foley.

OTHER RESOURCES FOR YOUR LESBIAN SATISFACTION

Didn't find anything interesting here? Well you can always check out the guru of LA lesbian nightlife, The Godfather, over at LA Box Lunch Lesbians. There, you'll not only get a great listing of all the clubs and bars, but sometimes her recaps which are honest and hysterical.

A little older and a bit conservative? Definitely check out the biggest lesbian social circle in the universe over at www.womenonaroll.com

And currently, there are lesbian nights at East/West, Eleven and Crown Bar on Thursday evenings.

SWEET TRAVEL
No matter where you live, you can join hundreds (and sometimes thousands) of lesbians from around the globe at Sweet's travel events. Upcoming: a weekend in Vegas baby, and a Singles Escape for a week - May 7-14 - in the tropical paradise of Isla Mujeres. For more info, check out their web site.

As the Gay Turns for Wednesday

2010-04-21T12:40:00.000-07:00

RIP - PlanetOut.com

After here! Media bought almost all the print and internet outlets out there, they've all been slowly folding into one place. Now the former PlanetOut.org folds into Gay.com which is where GayWired.com also lands.

Jenni Olsen wrote about this.

GeEqual.org interrupted yet another political event today:

If you're keeping track, that adds up to three offenses this week!

If you live in Los Angeles, there are two big things going on this weekend:

Showbiz Expo - All day Saturday and Sunday with panels, exhibits, mixers and much more.

and

The Los Angeles Times Festival of Books. All weekend at UCLA and jam packet with incredible appearances by some of your favorite authors and celebs. Great cultural event for the city!

And here's your gay movie trailer of the week:

As the Gay Turns - Point, Sketch, Choi and Glee

2010-04-20T15:57:00.000-07:00

The gay video of the week, below, is tied to the big gay news story of today - Dan Choi returned to the White House today with five other military members to handcuff themselves to the gates AGAIN.

Meanwhile, the police did NOT want anyone to video tape this including CBS news, CNN and so on, as you can see and hear in this clip:

This rally takes place just a day after members of GetEqual heckled the president as he spoke at a political fundraiser for Barbara Boxer. Obama actually acknowledged the hecklers as they chanted, "What about Don't Ask, Don't Tell." He reassured them, "That Barbara did not vote for Don't Ask, Don't Tell!" then followed by, "You want to come up here?"

Both these incidents are receiving the intended news coverage nationally. GetEqual.org is behind both.

Those not familiar, this is a fairly new organization started and run by grassroots activists. They are the antithesis of big organizations like HRC - the later coming into criticism a lot of late for hobnobbing with the White House instead of pressuring. In fact, HRC and GetEqual are constantly at odds and not afraid to publicly bash one another.

If you ever saw Network, GetEqual.org is channelling that whole, "I'm mad as hell and I'm not going to take it any more spirit."

In other gay news - the big Madonna episode of GLEE is on this evening, with the Sue Sylvester VOGUE video being a big highlight. GLEE recently won the GLAAD Award for best comedy show and at that ceremony, creator Ryan Murphy lauded out cast members Jane Lynch and Chris Colfer.

Also on tonight at 10 pm on LOGO is episode 2 of The Big Gay Sketch Show.

Even though the show was taped well over a year ago (LOGO - get your act together) tonight's show has a Glenn Close sketch by Dennis Hensley that comes the day after the last episode (perhaps EVER) of Damages aired.

I know you'll be watching Lost and Glee, but you can either TIVO it or even better, buy the entire season on Itunes.

Monday night, my favorite non profit POINT FOUNDATION had their awards show in New York City and they raised an astounding $600,000. The event honored David Mixner and as per usual, had a big star turn out including Alan Cumming, Jane Krakowski, Andy Cohen and Susan Sarandon.

Here's Sarandon flocked by some Point Scholars (can you blame them for flocking?). Every time I see this woman TO THIS DAY, all I can hear is, "Are you trying to seduce me Mrs. Blaylock?" (Please, call me Miriam).

If you're around this week in Los Angeles, come on down to TheSmokingCocktail.com's monthly LGBT mixer for professionals, artists and activists:

New relaxed, and fun GLAAD Media Awards in Los Angeles, with new ED

2010-04-18T13:47:00.000-07:00

When you have outspoken and quick-witted women like Wanda Sykes and Drew Barrymore accepting awards...you pretty much know you're going to have a fun night.

Throw in two highly attractive and talented hosts (Wilson Cruz and Candis Cayne), the cast of GLEE and a handful of little puppies from the pound... mix in the appropriate amount of free flowing Absolut, stir gently with 800 gay men in black suits and tuxes... and you have the GLAAD 2010 Media Awards in Los Angeles.

One reason I love these events is because after kissing the air next to about 58 men's cheeks, I feel like I got a free microdermabrasion. Love that stubble, not used to it being all lesbian, and appreciate saving $150 on a facial. Plus I admit, I never tire of the lies gay men always say like, "You look spectacular", when I am clearly wearing the exact same outfit I did at the last two black tie events in the gay world.

Thank god this year they switched the venue to a far less ostentatious location. No more Nokia Center or Kodak Theatre, it's back to the ole LGBT staple of the Century City Hyatt Regency - and believe me, the crowd was happy about that. It has a friendly little layout and plenty of room to fit the different cocktail receptions, red carpet, dinner, dance party, silent auction and what not. The auditorium is huge and the acoustics and production quality was all perfect.

Drew Barrymore has for sure the best tribute reel I've seen in a while - her company put it together and it started with the blonde actress/producer looking in the camera sincerely asking why the gays like her. Smash cut to every single gay moment in film she's been in or produced including clips from Boys on the Side, Grey Gardens, Charlie's Angels and ending with ET in drag! Big laugh. Then it had a great bit about all the lawyers, staff, hairdressers, agents and managers in her life that are gay. She might know more gay men than me. Then she ended the reel with Faye Dunaway doing her acceptance speech in Mommie Dearest. Brills.

On stage, she was lovely and charming, and my favorite part of her schpeel was when she said regarding gay marriage and adoption, "When are people going to learn that we have to take care of each other. We have to love each other. And we have to let people do that."

GLEE won for best comedy on television and Ryan Murphy accepted the award. He applauded out stars Jane Lynch and Chris Colfer. "Jane has used her fame to publicly talk about her engagement...Jane where are you registered?" Jane leaned over and said NCLR (so if you want to make a donation in Jane's name, please go to their web site where you can also see a cute video from Jane and her fiance. Of course, after about two beats, she leaned back in and said, "Um, er and GLAAD. GLAAD too."

Ryan Murphy showered Colfer with praise for coming out at his early age and during the height of his network show's popularity unlike some people that come out later at the age of 40 (big slam to you, Sean Hayes).

Wanda Sykes was also fantastic on stage.

She accepted the award from MississippiPromgate star Constance McMillen. "Really, I should give you this award," Sykes said to McMillen, "But I'm not going to because I want it."

Sykes went on to applaud the young woman for standing up for her rights before, during and after the Prom controversy. "Don't worry, you'll be winning enough of your own awards."

Sykes went on to thank all her show's producers, Rupert Murdoch (I think he let's me do my show, and has GLEE on the air just to cover his bases on getting into heaven after all that Fox News garbage. Hey, I would cover my ass too!), and her assistant. She looked out at her assistant and threatened to kill her if she ever left her. "I'm serious. And don't point to your husband, I ain't scared of him!"

Then she did a call back to bitch-slap Ryan Murphy for his coming out at 40 comment and said, "You think it's so easy to come out at 40? Talk to my mother. She'll tell you it's not easy!"

They had the cutest little puppies from the West LA Animal Shelter at the silent auction table at the pre party. BIG FUCKING HIT.

I managed to pull myself away from the puppies long enough to catch up with some folks include Adam Bouska and Jeff Parshley from the No on H8 campaign (they had just been at Gene Simmon's house to do his photo!), and I also met Constance McMillen who was really excited about possibly attending UCLA and moving to our fair city.

I also ran into my table mates from last year's awards show, and tons of folks I met at the NY GLAAD awards! Great fun.

Probably the best part of the evening was crashing the teen party that was happening in a big tent outside the main auditorium near the smoking lounge.
It really touched a lot of us to see all the high school and college students having their own party (I haven't seen that much dance floor action since the Sweet cruise!). They got to watch the show on monitors, and some of the stars came up to make an appearance. It made the rest of us all talk about how nice it would have been to come out in high school or college. We debated whether it was easier to do so now (I don't think it's ever THAT easy). We also remembered how as kids, we had no gay role models (other than, duly noted by all, Paul Lynde).

The show ended with Adam Lambert coming out looking quite fabulous with his big blue-back hair and dark-as-sin-at-night eyeliner.

I've never heard him sing or seen him perform, and I was surprised at the late 1980's glam rock vibe to it all (surprised because I haven't seen that shit since I was 19!). I'm a little bummed his music isn't as catchy as Lady Gaga's, but his energy and showmanship was absolutely fantastic.

Photos from the show and red carpet are from our LGBT photo event god, Brian Putnam. Check out all his celeb work at Putnam Photo.

Of course, I took all the puppy photos.

See all you bitches at the next big gay event - which by my calendar is An Evening With Women.

Here's the rest of the photos:

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Gay Video of the Week

2010-04-16T14:18:00.001-07:00

And the winner is Tim Gunn critiquing in his usual fabulous fashionista way, the costumes of super heroes.

It's gay and geeky!

Of course, with GLEE premiering this week, the gayest video is Sue Sylvester singing VOGUE and the best way to watch it (again, admit it you've already watched it several times) is to view The Gawker's Side By Side Comparison with Madonna's original.

Melissa Etheridge - Single Again

2010-04-15T11:53:00.001-07:00

Melissa's reps told PEOPLE magazine: "Melissa and Tammy Etheridge are saddened to announce that they are now separated."

I have to admit that a break-up that doesn't involve someone going to rehab, Angelina Jolie or Gloria Alright repping someone is getting to be good news for celebs.

The couple have been married 7 years and together a total of 9. They have two children together, and Etheridge, 48, has two from her previous relationship.

They caused quite the reaction during California's Prop 8 marriage battle, when Etheridge refused to pay her taxes until she could legally marry, which lead to some awkward interviews afterwards with Tammy where she vacillated on the issue (spawned by her family's religious views).

Tammy, 35, is formerly Tammy Lynn Michaels and was quite the show stopper on out gay show runner Ryan Murphy's (GLEE) first sit com, POPULAR.

Etheridge was previously with director Julie Cypher (who was previously with Lou Diamond Phillips), and those two set off a cliffhanger to rival Who Shot JR when they refused to release the name of their sperm donor. Rumors leaned towards Brad Pitt, but eventually came out as singer David Crosby from Crosby, Stills and Nash.

Etheridge is set to appear next Tuesday, April 20th on QVC to do a live broadcast of tracks from her new album, Fearless Love. This is her first studio album in two years.

Here's the new music video for her first single from the album, Fearless Love:

Watch Trailer: High Art director's new lesbian film, The Kids Are Alright

2010-04-15T11:46:00.001-07:00

The Kids are Alright is the new film from out director Lisa Cholodenko from High Art fame.

The film had the honor of being the highest sale at this year's Sundance Film Festival in January, and the studio plans a sneak attack with the quirky indy film during the hot summer blockbuster months - hoping art house fans will be looking for an alternative to this season's crops of fluff remakes and sequels.

Kids stars Annette Bening and Jullianne Moore as a lesbian couple who get a surprise guest when their children's sperm donor shows up.

Moore also indulged in some femme-on-femme action early this year in Atom Egoyan's flop Chloe.

The film is garnering some fantastic early buzz.

You Are Cordially invited

2010-04-13T16:30:00.001-07:00

The best way to avoid another earthquake...

2010-04-05T16:08:00.001-07:00

...is to go out this week and laugh at gay comedy.

Watch Video, See Photos: Highlights from Dinah Shore 2010

2010-04-05T10:50:00.001-07:00

Friday Night, ke$ha performs, and the Celesbian Fashion Show

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Here's the photos from the Saturday Pool Party

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And the Hollywood Party, with special guests Salt N Pepa

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Sunday Pool Party

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Watch Video: Dinah Shore 2010, Saturday Night Hollywood Party with Salt n Pepa

2010-04-04T21:17:00.000-07:00

SAturday night rocked the house at The Dinah in Palm Springs as thousands of lesbian descended on the Palm Beach Convention Center for a series of parties, events and concerts.

First up was The Kathy & Mo Show, with Kathy Nijimy and Mo Gaffney, followed by the Hollywood Red Carpet, with all your favorite celesbians including God-Des and She, Erin Foley, Nicol Paone, Sandra Valls and Bridget McManus, to name a few. Then it was the SheWired.com VIP party, followed by the Salt n Pepa Concert. After that it was the infamous lesbian fashion show.

It's all in here in this video, including interviews with Meredith Baxter, Mo Gaffney, Thea Gill and Elizabeth Keener

The Dinah 2010: Photos from the Parties!

2010-04-04T17:31:00.001-07:00

What happens when thousands of lesbian gather around a pool in Palm Springs on Easter Sunday? Well, an earthquake for one.
The earth shook as the quake from Baja rolled in, making the go go dances grab onto their cages for dear life, whilst the parking lot was a sea of swaying pick up trucks and motorcycles.

Here's the photos from Saturday, day and night.

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

And the Hollywood Party, with special guests Salt N Pepa

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Friday Night Live at the Dinah with kesha and the Lesbian Comedy Show

2010-04-04T01:43:00.001-07:00

Here's the video kids:

Dinah Shore, Watch Video from Friday

2010-04-03T18:37:00.000-07:00

So the lesbians all starting to arrive at the Hilton hotel on Friday as the festivities began. In today's video, The Dinah founder Mariah Hanson talks about all the parties and events happening and we get an inside look at the Friday pool party with LOGO's lube wrestling, the dance magic contest with Bridget McManus and the SheWired.com karaoke lounge.

And here's the photos!

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Tune in later to see the video of KESHA performing, along with the White Diamonds party.

Watch Video: Dinah Shore Weekend 2010

2010-04-02T14:54:00.001-07:00

The Dinah has landed.

For the next few days, we'll be uploading photos, video and insider dish every single day from the biggest lesbian event in the world. There's going to be everything here from lesbian oil wrestling to fundraising cocktail parties for The LA Gay & Lesbian Center and EQCA.

We have backstage passes, and we're going to be catching it all.

VIDEO:

PHOTOS:

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Living La Vida Homo: Ricky Martin Comes Out

2010-03-29T13:52:00.001-07:00

"I am proud to say that I am a fortunate homosexual man. I am very blessed to be who I am. " And so, pop singer Ricky Martin finally comes out of the closet today officially.

Read his entire statement on his web site: http://rickymartinmusic.com/portal/news/news.asp?item=114532

The Gayest Videos of the Week

2010-03-28T12:08:00.001-07:00

I'm happy to report that this week's installment of the Gayest Videos doesn't include a single Republican politician explaining why they were caught at a gay bar or bath house.

This week's come from Ellen, Betty White, Freddie Mercury and GLEE's Sue Sylvester.

Betty White talks to Ellen:(hang out to the end, it's really quite funny!)

GLEE's SUE SYLVESTER, played by out actress Jane Lynch, goes on a tyrade against those "sneaky gays".

Mash up with Amy Winehouse, Queen and Ray Charles.

Mash ups are kinda funny. Like sampling. I used to think rap songs that sampled other songs were kinda like stealing until I realized all the classical composers did it as well (Rhapsody on a Theme by Paganini much?!)

Cynthia Nixon Fights Back

2010-03-22T10:44:00.001-07:00

This is great, on all counts. Thanks Katherine Linton for sending!

Out actor John Barrowman joins the cast of Desperate Housewives

2010-03-21T13:04:00.001-07:00

Hunky and very out actor John Barrowman is going to start his guest starring stint on Desperate Housewives this evening playing a new bad guy in town.

Barrowman is known to audiences from the hit British show Torchwood, where he played a tri-sexual (men, women, aliens).

The show is being adapted for an American version, and they're not sure yet whether they'll keep Barrowman's gay tendencies, but in real life, he's all homo, out and proud.

On Housewives he'll play the shadowy figure that Drea De Matteo has been hiding from.

Vote for your Favorite Apology: The Pope, Jesse James or Tiger Woods

2010-03-20T10:28:00.000-07:00

There's been a lot of "official apologies" lately, and I'm curious as to whether the public is buying these, so I'm having an informal poll today in the side bar.

The entire nature of the apology itself, is to acknowledge we are human and that we make mistakes, and that we are intrinsically wired to learn from said mistakes. The apology shows this, and offers compassion and regret to those we have hurt. The first step in redemption, as it were, as is supported in most religions whether you're talking about karma or hell.

But you throw in power and ego, and the apology isn't really sincere. The purpose of this kind of apology is to consciously sway what YOU think as to protect the ego and/or power of the person or entity that wronged.

That's when you cue lawyers, politicians and PR people. Woods' apology reeked of preparation from a team who probably all get a cut of his millions potentially earned from sponsors. The Vatican as a city and corporation both, has the most money of anyone on earth and wield extensive power and control over people across every continent.

Here's some links to their apologies, and let me know what you think in the side bar. (ps: I didn't include any recent apologies from American politicians because they are in nature just complete bullshit, and that seem obvious).

Pope responds to on going cover ups of sexual abuse by priests in Ireland. Read Pope's Apology here: Pastoral Apology.

Jesse James cheats on Sandra Bullock, she moves out. Read Jesse James apology here.

Tiger Woods, cheats with numerous women for year. Read Tiger Woods apology here.

Sneak Peak: Kathy Griffin on The Joy Behar Show today

2010-03-18T17:23:00.000-07:00

Kathy Griffin on The Joy Behar Show talking about being in DC this week and dealing with DADT.

DADT Update - HRC Rally Results in Three Arrests including Lt Dan Choi

2010-03-18T13:02:00.001-07:00

This morning at a rally hosted by HRC/Bravo and Kathy Griffin in Washington, DC, Lt Dan Choi and Capt. Jim Pietrangelo were arrested in front of the White House for handcuffing themselves to the gates.

Griffin helped plan the rally to film it for an upcoming episode of her Bravo show, My Life on the D List.

Choi's actions were apparently not known to HRC and Griffin, prior, although grassroots organizers had been working on this show of action for a while with Choi.

Sirius radio show host Michelangelo Signorile tweeted, "Dan Choi took HRC's and Kathy Griffin's celebrity photo op an dturned it into a real protest."

Queerty commented: "While the ineffective Human Rights Campaign sits idly by and plays with celebrities, we're witnessing a more renegade approach to securing equality going on this minute."

After the rally took place, a march of around 500 protesters left the rally and headed toward the White House, where the two servicemen handcuffed themselves to the fence in protest of the ongoing debate over repealing Don't Ask, Don't Tell while protesters chanted "Keep your promise Obama!".

They were both promptly arrested. Robin McGehee - a key leader from Meet in The Middle, Get Equal, and The National Equality March was also arrested for helping them.

(pictured left, Griffin with HRC's Joe Solmonese )

Pietrangelo was discharged in 2004, Choi is up for discharge.

Choi addressed the crowd before handcuffing himself to the fence, "We are at a turning point. We are calling you to action because when there is a moment when no talk can get us any further, action is absolutely required."

What's disappointing is that Griffin allegedly did NOT accompany Choi to the White House, even though she was invited, which means none of it got caught for her show!

Griffin tweeted, "It was my honor 2 share th podium w Lt Dan Choi today. I understand he's been arrested in front of the White House. I dig that dude! Balls!"

THIS IS GAY DRAMA BECAUSE: HRC got a lot of heat when they did not endorse the National Equality March stating they felt rallies were ineffective. Yet now, they are doing a rally, although it seems largely motivated to garner publicity on Bravo since it's being tapped for My Life on the D List. Kathy Griffin is a huge supporter of LGBT rights and did a show last year on the Prop 8 issue in California. Regarding the first rally at Freedom Plaza, GetEqual.org twittered that Joe Solmonese - the organization's ED - stated, "This is a Bravo event."

The same weekend of the National Equality March, HRC hosted a black tie dinner which drew more than a few harsh criticisms from the lgbti community when they were viewed as "hob nobbing" with the DC politicos more than pressuring them to keep their promises. Signorile called out Solomnese on CNN after this, to which the HRC ED commented that the radio show host was outside the event because he couldn't get tickets to the show.

HRC issued this statement this afternoon:

"Today more than 1000 people showed up at a rally - 500 of which signed up to become more involved in the fight to repeal 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell.' Joe Solmonese along with Eric Alva and others felt it was important to stay and engage those at the rally in ways they can continue building the pressure needed for repeal. This does nothing to diminish the actions taken by Lt. Choi and others. This is the nature of social change and everyone has a role to play."

Joy Behar will be covering this rally and the subsequent protest and arrests on her show this evening on HLN.

This is all occurring on a day when there are also massive sit in protests in San Francisco over ENDA.

Here's Choi's speech before he locked himself to the gates:

And here's the CNN live report showing the arrests:

More info and video at The Huffington Post and The Gawker.

photos: Scott Roewer/MeetintheMiddle.org

Photos and Dish from last night's TheSmokingCocktail.com LGBT Mixer

2010-03-18T12:23:00.000-07:00

Thanks again for a fabulous evening!

Our co hosts The LA Lesbian & Gay Lawyer's Association were there along with reps from Rock for Equality, and we promoted some fabulous gay fare - the new cd release of SIPPING BREATH by Marianna Fox and the smash theatre piece STREEP TEASE.

Special thanks to Mac Enthusiasts and The Dinah for the outstanding raffle donations of tickets to Dinah Shore Weekend, and the drives, programs and usb wireless thingie that everyone wanted to win! Thanks to photographer Brian Putnam who came by to snap some picts!

We also celebrated the birthday of out author and lecturer Roberta Munroe.

Here's the photos:

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Come on down tonight...

2010-03-17T12:19:00.000-07:00

If you live in the LA area, come on down tonight for our monthly mixer for lgbt professionals, artists and activists.

Watch Video: The Lesbian Kiss of Juliane Moore and Amanda Seyfried

2010-03-16T12:49:00.000-07:00

I wish I could get more excited about this movie, but Atom Egoyan's last foray into the gay gave us the flop Where The Truth Lies.

In Chloe, Amanda Seyfried plays a woman hired by Moore's character to entrap her husband (Liam Neeson) into an affair to prove he's been cheating.

I'm sure there will be tons of twists and "shocking" turns, as in most Egoyan fare, which often borders on pondering melodrama with a junior high school sense of sexual titillation. Of his films where this all paid off: Exotica and The Sweet Hereafter.

In Seyfried's rather short career so far she's smooched two women including Megan Fox in Jennifer's Body.

Meanwhile, Moore recently hit the mother load of sapphic parts starring as the partner of Annette Bening in The Kids Are Alright, for High Art director Lisa Cholodenko. The film bowed at Sundance and garnered the highest selling price of the entire festival.

We shall see about this one, but here's your glimpse and you be the judge:

Or here: