Los Angeles, CA (The Hollywood Times) 1/13/25 – For Edwin Lee Gibson, his multiple partnerships with FX Networks were a mere coincidence. Now, the duo is on the road to success. “FX is fearless, and I see myself that way, so it’s a good fit,” he explained.
Gibson said he was only given a few words to build his character…”Ebra is a mystery that has lived 1000 lives.”
Gibson started acting when he was 16 and has since starred in 104 productions worldwide. Most recently, he starred in FX’s The Bear and She Taught Love. Now, he is looking ahead to his newest endeavor, a pink and red dress, made of satin… covered in flowers, mostly roses.
Gibson responded to his work on The Bear with all positive feedback, sharing a recent meeting with producer Christopher Storer. The two discussed their thoughts and the audience’s thoughts on the show. “I love doing the show with everyone. What people see that chemistry on camera, is indicative of how we are when the cameras aren’t rolling,” he shared. With the show renewed for a third season, Gibson looks forward to continuing his work with FX and Hulu.
In addition to acting, Gibson is also a writer. “I never want to be seen as an actor; I’m an artist, and artists create work,” he shared. “If you want to move in the business, you have to show people you can do beyond what they can do and put your mouth where your money is.” His upcoming short, a pink and red dress, made of satin… covered in flowers, mostly roses, began production in late 2024. The film was initially intended to be longer; however, Storer advised against putting all his money into his first project. He transformed it into a shortened 12-page version. Gibson will have a small role in addition to serving as executive producer.
Between 1998 and 2006, actor/writer Edwin Lee Gibson was a well-loved fixture for theater-loving children who enrolled in his Musical Theater Workshop at the Rye Arts Center.
Gibson was also chosen to be part of the Sony Pictures Television Writing Program in 2022 for his pilot Nicodemus. “You can only be nominated, and you can’t submit your own work,” Gibson said. “They read the projects blindly, and after the first cut, they find out who wrote the work. The program is filled with prompts and learning how to talk about the script and television writing process beyond a pilot.” Gibson shared he remained close with Sony following the program.
Gibson is looking forward to his projects this coming year, sharing he “may be working in the UK a bit more in 2025”. To learn more about Edwin Lee Gibson, you can follow along on his Instagram, @EdwinLeeGibson.
Los Angeles, CA (The Hollywood Times) 1/13/25 – Although I’m not aiming to live forever, I do want to be healthy for as long as I can—however long that may be. As long as we control our own destiny, it’s important to stay on the lookout for ways to keep our bodies as young as possible well into our golden years. So, what’s next in the world of anti-aging medicine? Let’s take a look at some of the most promising treatments on the horizon.
1. Senolytics What it does: Targets and eliminates senescent cells—those old, damaged cells that can contribute to aging and diseases associated with aging. Examples:
Dasatinib and Quercetin: A combination therapy that’s shown promising results in animal studies and early human trials.
Fisetin: A natural compound found in fruits and vegetables that has senolytic properties.
2. Autophagy Inducers What it does: Autophagy is the process by which our cells clean out damaged components and recycle them. Inducing autophagy is believed to maintain cellular health. Examples:
Spermidine: Found in foods like mushrooms and legumes.
Rapamycin: An immunosuppressant drug that’s showing potential for anti-aging benefits as it induces autophagy.
3. NAD+ Boosters What it does: NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) plays a key role in cellular energy production and repair. Levels of NAD+ decline as we age, but boosting its levels may help slow aging and prevent disease. Examples:
Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) and Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN): Both are precursors to NAD+ that help increase its levels in the body.
4. Calorie Restriction Mimetics What it does: These compounds mimic the benefits of calorie restriction without requiring extreme dietary changes. Examples:
Metformin: A diabetes drug that’s showing potential as an anti-aging agent in animal studies.
Spermidine: It not only induces autophagy but may also act as a calorie restriction mimetic.
5. Antioxidants What it does: Antioxidants help protect cells from oxidative stress, a major contributor to aging. Examples:
Resveratrol: Found in grapes and red wine, it has both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Astaxanthin: A potent antioxidant found in algae and seafood.
Important Notes to Remember:
Research is still ongoing: Many of these supplements are still in the early stages of research. Their long-term effects and safety have yet to be fully understood.
Individual approach: The best way to fight aging will vary based on your genetics, health status, and other personal factors.
Consult a healthcare professional: Before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have any health conditions, be sure to consult with your doctor.
This field is moving fast, and new breakthroughs are happening all the time. So, keep an eye on the latest research and talk to qualified healthcare professionals to stay ahead of the curve.
Los Angeles, CA (The Hollywood Times) 1/13/2025 – At one time or another, we have all experienced loneliness, and it’s not an overstatement to say it can profoundly affect your overall being. The loneliness epidemic is a major concern, and has been linked to high blood pressure, depression, heart disease, stroke, and more.
Gabriel Adewusi
Studies have shown loneliness is more common in those who face structural vulnerabilities, including homelessness. It’s a worldwide phenomenon, and as more people are forced to immigrate, the solutions are not forthcoming, and people are forced to do whatever they can to find some security.
Themes of loneliness, grief, and the immigrant experience are the subject of “Room Taken,” a short film directed by T.J. O’Grady-Peyton is adapted from a screenplay by first-time writer Michael Whelan. The story follows Isaac, a recent immigrant to Ireland, who, struggling to find accommodations, quietly moves into the home of Victoria, an elderly blind woman. Their unexpected cohabitation leads to the development of a unique and tender bond.
O’Grady-Peyton sat down with The Hollywood Times for an exclusive chat about his film. O’Grady-Peyton and Whelan met on a commercial shoot a couple of years ago, and the pair were inspired to collaborate on a project when Whelan sent O’Grady-Peyton sent his first attempt at screenwriting, the director liked what he saw. “I remember reading it and feeling super moved by the story, O’Grady-Peyton said. I really felt moved by it and I was totally convinced that this would be a great project and something that had a really unique concept.’
Click below for our exclusive interview
Indeed, the questions of homelessness among recent immigrants to Ireland made the story a hot-button issue. In addition, personal events in the director’s and writer’s lives introduced an aspect of grief. The duo went looking for funding for the project, and once that was secured, they were off on what O’Grady-Peyton called, “a crazy kind of journey” to bring the film to an audience.
Bríd Brennan
“Room Taken” stars Bríd Brennan (Hope Street) as Victoria, the blind woman, alongside newcomer Gabriel Adewusi’s portrayal of Issac, the homeless immigrant who just needs a break to make it in his new country.
“Room Taken” has garnered significant recognition, earning a spot on the Oscars longlist after winning Best Short at the 2024 Cleveland International Film Festival and receiving a gold medal for Best Film at the Manhattan Short Film Festival.
TJ O’Grady-Peyton
O’Grady-Peyton’s previous works include IFTA award-winning short film “Wave” as well as 2021’s “Silence,” which was nominated for an IFTA.
Colmán Mac Cionnaith (Supergirl) is the film’s producer, and the list of executive producers includes actor Colin Ferrell, along with Cormack Fox, Sandro Monetti, Christopher Oakland, Emma Scott and David Treatman.
Speaking with Variety, Farrell said, “Room Taken is such a gentle cry to the power of human connection. It treats loneliness and grief and the struggle of the immigrant with such a gentle hand, bringing its character and narrative threads together beautifully.”
Farrell said the film “wears its compassion – along with its heart – on its sleeve with tender performances. The story stayed with me long after viewing, I was thrilled to be asked to be a part of helping ‘Room Taken’ find as wide an audience as possible.”
Today is the day – Tickets are now available for our Best of Fest movies. Join us at the Camelot Theaters, the Festival Theaters, and Mary Pickford is D’Place for screenings all day today!
Best of Fest films are a mix of award winners and special mentions, as well as the highest audience scores. If you didn’t get to see these incredible films yet, tomorrow is your chance. As a special addition to the list below, e are also screening THE PENGUIN LESSONS tomorrow night at 8pm FT6. Don’t miss your chance to see our Closing Night film.
To reserve your tickets today, call our box office at (760) 778-8979 or visit our website.
FESTIVAL MERCH
Get your #PSIFF2025 merch! Destination PSP is the one-stop shop for the official 36th Palm Springs International Film Festival merchandise. Available for in-store purchase at 170 N Palm Canyon Dr, or you can order online for in-store pick-up or delivery.
Film Society members enjoy exclusive invitations to pre-release screenings of major motion pictures throughout the year, Early Bird box office access to our Festivals, and much more.
We believe film as an art form has the power to illuminate the universality of the human experience and bridge cultures to create a more just and compassionate world. Become a member today and join us in cultivating the passionate filmgoers and filmmakers of tomorrow.
Tickets are now available for our Best of Fest movies. Join us at the Camelot Theaters, the Festival Theaters, and Mary Pickford is D’Place for screenings all day tomorrow, Monday, January 13, 2025.
Best of Fest films are a mix of award winners and special mentions, as well as the highest audience scores. If you didn’t get to see these incredible films yet, tomorrow is your chance.
To reserve your tickets today, call our box office at (760) 778-8979 or visit our website.
Follow our PSFILMFEST Instagram for updates, posts, talent and director interviews, and stories.
FESTIVAL MERCH
Get your #PSIFF2025 merch! Destination PSP is the one-stop shop for the official 36th Palm Springs International Film Festival merchandise. Available for in-store purchase at 170 N Palm Canyon Dr, or you can order online for in-store pick-up or delivery.
Film Society members enjoy exclusive invitations to pre-release screenings of major motion pictures throughout the year, Early Bird box office access to our Festivals, and much more.
We believe film as an art form has the power to illuminate the universality of the human experience and bridge cultures to create a more just and compassionate world. Become a member today and join us in cultivating the passionate filmgoers and filmmakers of tomorrow.
Sweet Talkin’ Guy, will be premiering at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival!
By: Valerie Milano
Palm Springs, CA (The Hollywood Times) 1/11/25 –
Sweet Talkin’ Guy, will be premiering at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival!
By: Valerie Milano
Palm Springs, CA (The Hollywood Times) 1/11/25 – They’re called “tranny chasers,” men who are sexually attracted to transgender or transsexual people, generally in a fetishistic way. Driven by thrill or curiosity, they “chase” after male-to-female transwomen, and are prevalent in the transgender scene in every major city where transgender women are prevalent.
A portion of society may consider these men gay, but make no mistake, these men do not like other men and are only attracted to transsexuals because they look like women. These “chasers” will tell you they are not gay because it is widely accepted that gay men do not like male to female transsexuals because, well, gay men like men not men who look like women.
No matter what your personal position is on the gayness of these “chasers”, there is a common thread running through the community of men who date transgender women. They all seem to be after one thing, and it’s not love.
Spencer Wardwell and Dylan Wardwell on “Sweet Talkin’ Guy”
Spencer Wardwell and Dylan Wardwell on “Sweet Talkin’ Guy”
This phenomenon is the subject of “Sweet Talkin’ Guy,” an intriguing short by sister/brother filmmakers Dylan and Spencer Wardwell that follows three men as they pursue the same fantasy with a transwoman. The film is short and sweet at 4 1/2 minutes as the transwoman, played by Dylan, who is a non-binary French and Portuguese model, endures the men grappling with their fragile masculinity.
Dylan and Spencer sat down with The Hollywood Times recently to talk about their film and the “chaser” phenomenon. Inspired by her own experiences in the dating world, Dylan said she thinks all men are clumsy when it comes to dating.
Click below for our exclusive interview:
“My lived experience is that a lot of men just don’t know how to act,” she said with a laugh.
Dylan billed as “Miss Dylan” in the pivotal role as the object of the three men’s desires makes her home in New York City and is making her acting/writing/directing debut with this film. She went on to address the fetishistic element to dating, and said it isn’t always the case that men are trying to check off a fantasy on some sexual “bucket list”. However, it may seem that way in the film, with the ultimate question from each of the 3 suitors at the end, in that they are all rather excited to perform oral sex on her.
“Quite frankly, that’s a rather extrapolated example in a lot of cases, but when there is that juxtaposition, I find it extremely funny and ironic, and I thought it was extremely appropriate in the short. But it is what it is for everyone.”
Director Spencer Wardwell and director/star Dylan Wardwell discuss their Sundance-selected short film Sweet Talkin’ Guy.
Director Spencer Wardwell and director/star Dylan Wardwell discuss their Sundance-selected short film Sweet Talkin’ Guy.
Spencer pointed to his role as an experienced filmmaker with several short films to his credit as advisory to Dylan’s effort to communicate her lived experiences.
“We’ve wanted to collaborate on something for a very long time,” he said. “I was there to facilitate her vision.”
That vision comes to life in “Sweet Talkin’ Man” as these 3 guys work their butts off to make sure the woman knows they are straight – or more accurately, as they try to convince themselves that being with a transwoman doesn’t make them gay. Dylan has no dialogue in the film, rather allowing the words and actions of the men to do all the talking as she speaks volumes with her eyes and body language.
As for the question of, how does this kind of non-stop pseudo-justification and fetish denial by the men make her feel as the woman she most definitely is? Dylan said it is truly a disappointment to her.
“It’s disheartening to hear a man say these things where they are confused by their attraction to a transwoman, and shouldn’t be,” she said. “They’re a straight man who is attracted to a woman. But it is always kind of jarring when someone is confused by this. I don’t understand their confusion.”
Sarah Welden’s cinematography adds power to the impact of this truly entertaining film. Spencer said it was his first time working with her, but her enthusiasm and attention to detail made this a “very special” collaboration.
“Sarah was recommended to us by multiple sources, and she came on board very early on in the pre-production process,” he said. “She has a really great eye. We had a limited budget, and she was working under extremely limited constraints, and she just knocked it out of the park.”
Film editor Mario Fierro is a classmate of Spencer’s from the American Film Institute, and a chance meeting in Los Angeles led to his involvement in the project, which is scheduled to be screened at the Sundance Film Festival in Short Program 4 on January 25th.
“I didn’t get the opportunity to work with him at school, but we were searching for an editor, and I happened to bump into him,” Spencer said. “We were working hard to meet that Sundance deadline, and he did a really great job as well.”
“Sweet Talkin’ Guy” also features Jimmie Fails, Daniel Olson and Pierce Abernathy as the three gentlemen who wrestle with their sexual identities in this impressive first effort by Dylan.
The film was produced by April S. Changan an L.A.-based producer from Atlanta, and filmmaker/producer Vicki Syal, also based in L.A. with roots in Brazil and India. Justin Floyd and Louie Torrellas were executive directors for the film.
Los Angeles, CA (The Hollywood Times) 1/12/25 – The future has come crashing into the present, reshaping everything we thought we knew. Now, the question isn’t just about rebuilding; it’s about how the future will take over. What will it look like? To find out, I turned to AI for answers.
Imagine a smart village—a community that blends cutting-edge technology with a deep respect for culture and environment. Here’s a glimpse of what this futuristic yet grounded vision might look like:
1. Sustainable Infrastructure
Renewable Energy: Solar panels, wind turbines, and other clean energy solutions power homes and businesses, reducing dependency on fossil fuels.
Efficient Water Management: Rainwater harvesting and smart irrigation conserve water, while advanced purification systems ensure clean supplies.
Green Transportation: Electric vehicles, bike-friendly paths, and walkable streets promote sustainability and health.
Digital Education: Online learning and digital skills programs empower residents for the future.
3. Community Building
Connected Platforms: Apps and online spaces foster collaboration and social interaction within the community.
Cultural Preservation: Technology documents and celebrates local traditions, languages, and heritage.
Civic Engagement: Digital tools give residents a voice in governance and community initiatives.
4. Economic Development
Ecotourism: The village’s natural beauty and culture attract eco-conscious travelers.
Agritourism: Farm stays and fresh, farm-to-table experiences thrive in this tech-enhanced rural economy.
Entrepreneurship: Local businesses flourish with access to technology, training, and markets.
Key Considerations for the Future
Rebuilding isn’t just about deploying the latest gadgets. It’s about thoughtful innovation:
Closing the Digital Divide: Ensuring everyone has access to technology and education.
Protecting Privacy: Safeguarding personal data in the digital age.
Empowering Communities: Ensuring locals play a central role in shaping their future.
Honoring Culture: Keeping technological solutions respectful of local traditions and values.
Ultimately, a smart village is not about technology for its own sake. It’s about enhancing lives, nurturing the environment, and celebrating culture. As we rebuild, new blueprints and bold visions will shape environments that reflect the future’s demands while respecting the past.
The ashes will cool, the carpenters will arrive, and the future’s story will unfold—brick by brick, byte by byte.
Today is Family Day at the Mary Pickford Theater – The community is welcome to enjoy fun activities with the whole family like face painting, games, crafts, temporary tattoos, a bounce house, and two food trucks. All activities are free and we welcome you to participate!
We also have 3 family-friendly films – you can purchase film tickets on our website (with discounted tickets for children): “Flow,” “The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie” and “The Mountain.”
Join us for our Closing Night Film “The Penguin Lessons” to see a heartwarming journey of an English schoolteacher adopting an adorable penguin.
Movies are for the whole family! Bring your kids and loved ones to Family Day: a special selection of animations and wholesome films.
The community is welcome to join us for free activities like face painting, games & prizes. Two local food trucks will be present for food purchase. Get a taco in between movies and activities!
Sunday, January 12th
12PM–4PM
Activities, Food, Movies
Mary Pickford Theatre
36850 Pickfair St, Cathedral City, CA
Discounted Tickets for Children
Only for Family Day screenings, we are offering discounted Children general admission tickets.
️FLOW – 11:30AM
️THE DAY THE EARTH BLEW UP: A LOONEY TUNES MOVIE – 2:30PM
This delightful adventure follows two young brides from arranged marriages who are mistakenly swapped during a chaotic train ride, and find their lives flipped upside down when, upon arrival, they lift their veils, revealing that each husband is now with the wrong wife.
From Oscar®-winning director Paolo Sorrentino (The Great Beauty, PSIFF 2014), this enchanting treatise on cinematic beauty unfolds in Naples, following the titular heroine whose irresistible allure captivates everyone around her as she embarks on a journey to discover her place in the world.
Set during the 1972 Munich Summer Olympics, the film follows an American sports broadcasting team that quickly adapted from sports reporting to live coverage of a hostage situation. This decisive moment changed media coverage forever and continues to impact live news today.
In this endearing dramedy, two childhood friends receive an opportunity to keep their seafood restaurant in the picturesque Westfjords open year-round. When one comes out as a trans woman, their long-standing friendship is tested, revealing new perspectives on life and identity.
Both a bold historical drama and a penetrating psychological study of a delusional authoritarian, the latest from director Erik Poppe (The King’s Choice, PSIFF 2016) revisits Germany’s occupation of Norway and its aftermath through the story of wartime puppet leader and Nazi collaborator Vidkun Quisling.
A deliciously wry Steve Coogan teams up with the director of The Full Monty in this irresistible dramedy about a disaffected English schoolteacher in militaristic Argentina, whose life – and those of his spoiled pupils – is transformed when he rescues and adopts an adorable penguin.
Come early to reserve your spot in line, there may be a few tickets left.
Film Society members enjoy exclusive invitations to pre-release screenings of major motion pictures throughout the year, Early Bird box office access to our Festivals, and much more.
We believe film as an art form has the power to illuminate the universality of the human experience and bridge cultures to create a more just and compassionate world. Become a member today and join us in cultivating the passionate filmgoers and filmmakers of tomorrow.
Los Angeles, CA (The Hollywood Times) 1/9/25 – The incomparable American actress Glenn Close received an AARP Movies for Grownups Career Achievement Award at a ceremony hosted by Alan Cumming that was held in Beverly Hills on Saturday, January 11th, 2025. Close shares the honor with pre-eminent Hollywood stars such as George Clooney, Kevin Costner, Jamie Lee Curtis, Robert De Niro, Michael Douglas, Morgan Freeman, Shirley MacLaine, Helen Mirren, Robert Redford, Susan Sarandon, and Sharon Stone who continue to defy the acting profession’s ageist stereotypes and remain productive after the age of 50. The all-star awards ceremony will be broadcast on PBS Great Performances in February. Check your local listings!
Glenn Close (Stephane Cardinale / Corbis / Getty Images)
A thirtysomething Close started to cut the edge in complex and challenging films such as 1982’s THE WORLD ACCORDING TO GARP, 1983’s THE BIG CHILL, and especially 1988’s DANGEROUS LIAISONS where her aristocratic character’s manipulative scheming ultimately causes her to be booed in public by 18-century French society. The young Glenn Close will always be best remembered for her role as a murderous marriage wrecker with hair by Medusa in Adrian Lyne’s 1987 romantic melodrama FATAL ATTRACTION.
The older Glenn Close continued to score hit after hit in socially conscious films such as 2018’s THE WIFE, 2020’s FOUR GOOD DAYS and HILLBILLY ELEGY, and 2024’s THE DELIVERANCE as well as the highly rated legal television series DAMAGES, which ran from 2007 to 2012. Standout later roles for Close included her delicious turn as villainess Cruella De Vil in 1996’s 101 DALMATIANS and 2000’s sequel 102 DALMATIANS.
Glenn Close on the ‘Sexy’ Role That Changed Her Career
Close joined classically trained thespians of her time such as Jane Alexander, Laura Linney, and Meryl Streep in crafting unforgettable female roles that consistently defy expectations. This viewer was particularly impressed by her unexpectedly sensitive work in the three Hallmark made for television movies based upon the SARAH, PLAIN AND TALL book series for young readers authored by Patricia MacLachlan. Close plays a crusty yet compassionate mail-order bride from early 20th-century Maine who relocates to Kansas.
Close’s performances in classic plays such as LOVE FOR LOVE, THE REAL THING, DEATH AND THE MAIDEN, SUNSET BOULEVARD, and A DELICATE BALANCE caused her star to rise on Broadway as well as in Hollywood. This critically acclaimed actress of screen and stage has won two AARP Movies for Grownups Awards as well as three Primetime Emmy Awards, three Golden Globe Awards, three Tony Awards, two Screen Actors Guild Awards, a Critics Choice Award, and a People’s Choice Award.
AARP to honor Glenn Close with Movies for Grownups career achievement award
Oscar gold has eluded the unstoppable Close eight times, but talent like hers is certain to triumph in the end. ”’I’m not gonna be IGNORED!” as Alex Forrest from FATAL ATTRACTION might say. Warmest congratulations to Glenn Close for this meaningful accolade from the AARP.
Palm Springs, CA (The Hollywood Times) 1/11/25 – Today, in partnership with Eisenhower Health, The L-Fund hosted its first Health and Wellness event titled Thrive, bringing together a vibrant community of individuals, organizations, and advocates focused on improving the health and care of lesbians in the Coachella Valley and beyond. This exciting event aimed to educate, share community resources and help lesbians find avenues for improving their health and lives. .
Today, in partnership with Eisenhower Health, The L-Fund hosted its first Health and Wellness event titled Thrive, bringing together a vibrant community of individuals, organizations, and advocates focused on improving the health and care of lesbians in the Coachella Valley and beyond. This exciting event aimed to educate, share community resources and help lesbians find avenues for improving their health and lives.
The L-Fund, a nonprofit organization, empowers cis, trans, and queer-identifying lesbians through financial crisis assistance as well as assistance in the areas of health and wellness, the arts, and education in the Greater Coachella Valley.
Milano covering Thrive L-Fund
Purpose and Vision
The primary goal of Thrive was to inspire and empower individuals to take charge of their health and wellness by providing some of the tools, resources, and support needed for success.
A Day of Empowerment
From the opening keynote speaker to the closing remarks, Thrive brought an energy of positivity and forward-thinking. Through discussions, and keynote speakers, Thrive offered participants an opportunity to hear subject matter experts in the areas of breast health, aging, dementia, research regarding lesbian health and more. Participants also had the opportunity to participate in workshops offering a sound bath, self-defense instruction, stretching and yoga.
Dr. Phyllis Ritchie, MD
During the breaks attendees had the opportunity to engage with a range of 13 different exhibitors including local non-profit organizations such as The LGBTQ Center of the Desert, The Alzheimer’s Association, Palm Springs Veterans and others. One highlight of the day was the offering of comp massages.
Looking Ahead
As the day came to a close, it was clear that Thrive had achieved its goal of fostering a sense of connection, encouragement, and empowerment. The L-Fund’s commitment to providing assistance in the area of Health/Wellness to its recipients was clear.
For those who attended the event, Thrive was not just an event but a celebration of resilience, community, and the power of coming together to support one another. As The L-Fund looks forward to future events, the impact of today’s Thrive will continue to resonate, inspiring individuals to persevere and thrive in all aspects of their lives.