Starring: Steven Morana, Holly Deveaux, Ari Millen, and Colm Feore
August, a lead gaming developer, is looking forward to finally meeting his online girlfriend, Cheyenne, at a launch party for his new gaming app ‘Werewolves Awaken’. They plan to meet at the VIP event, which is being hosted by an eccentric billionaire at his country estate. However, the festivities are interrupted by a priest who condemns the party guests as “marked for the beast.” Convinced it’s a publicity stunt, the party-goers disregard the protest until a dead body is discovered. August and Cheyenne, along with the remaining guests, become players in a deadly version of the game. Tensions and body counts begin to rise as all question who among themselves could be the ferocious killer – as everyone is a suspect.
BEAST WITHIN made its world premiere at the 2019 Lusca Fantastic Film Festival in San Juan, Puerto Rico — winning a Special Recognition Award. The film also screened at the 2019 Spooky Empire Film Festival — winning Best Special Effects and screened at the 2019 ZedFest — winning Outstanding Acting Performances. BEAST WITHIN additionally screened at 2020 Hell’s Kitchen NYC — winning “Best Horror Film,” and Hexploitation Film Festival — winning “Best Monster Award.”
BEAST WITHIN is directed by Chris Green and Steven Morana, and written by Rudy Jahchan and Matthew Campagna. Produced by Morana and Nic Izzi, and executive produced by Amy Williams, Spero Stamboullis, and Bruno Marino. Cinematography by David Stuart, edited by Luis Caraza and Garret Henry and music by Arya Safakish (Safakash / Afta Hill). A Build Characterproduction, in association withLittle Axe Productions and High Star Entertainment.
BEAST WITHIN is now available on VOD/Digital
iTunes | Google Play | Amazon Video | Vimeo | Vudu | Microsoft | YouTube
HBO Max proves to be a powerhouse of streaming entertainment. Not only does this new and improved version of HBO shine with movies, the entire library of HBO series, hubs from DC, Sesame Workshop, TCM (including a library of Criterion titles), Studio Ghibli, Cartoon Network, adult swim, crunchyroll and Looney Tunes, it also has HBO Max originals. One of those being a priceless performance from Seth Rogen in An American Pickle. Now, did you ever think a Seth Rogen performance would stand out as an Emmy possibility or even an Oscar? We use to say the same about his friend, Jonah Hill and he’s been nominated twice. Well, don’t be surprised if Rogen is nominated and it will be well deserved.
An American Pickle was suppose to be a theatrical release by Sony, but after COVID-19 hit, the film rights were sold to Warner Bros. It was digitally released in August with a theatrical release in the United Kingdom. The movie is taken from a short story, The Sell Out, written by Simon Rich who expanded upon it for the big (or in this case small) screen with first time director Brandon Troost, better known as a cinematographer for The Disaster Artist and This is the End.
All three, Rich, Troost and Rogen work their magic on this delightful comedy/drama/fantasy. The fantasy aspect is light, but both the comedy and drama are beautifully woven together with Seth Rogen in a dual role as both his own great grandfather and great grandson. And, even though the film is heavy on its ethnicity, all could relate to the emphasis on family. Some may consider it a bit on the schmaltzy side, but that’s what makes the film so endearing.
The story opens 100 years ago in the little Eastern European village, Schlupsk, where Jewish ditch digger Herschel Greenbaum struggles to make a living. He relates the woes of his life and Rogen cannot help but remind us of Tevye from Fiddler on the Roof. He’s priceless as the sweet, proud and easily angered Herschel. His life changes with one glance at the downtrodden Sarah, played with sincerity and humility with another beautiful performance by Sarah Snook, so memorable in Predestination. Hers is a small part, but just her presence makes the character stand out.
Herschel is determined to marry Sarah and have a family who will prosper throughout the generations. But, his dream is short lived when he accidentally falls into a vat of pickles. With the building suddenly condemned, Herschel is trapped in the vat and brined for 100 years. He is accidentally released in the present and is made a minor celebrity, but heartbroken that just about everyone he knew is dead. Herschel is then told that his great grandson has been located, Ben Greenbaum (also played by Rogen), and they will be united.
What starts off sweet and funny takes a slight turn to the dramatic when Herschel touches upon faith and memories of the past. The interaction between the two is so seamlessly realistic. Rogen captures our heart as Herschel and at the same time takes us a step back with some of his political incorrectness, which 100 years ago where he came from was perfectly acceptable. Rogen as Ben plays more of a straight man and a bit of a douche when he turns on his great grandfather. Realize this, both are playing the same age for Herschel was brined about the age of what Ben is now, but they could not be more different. However, there are compassionate moments between the two.
Rich, Troost and Rogen deliver a wonderful mix of big laughs and reflective moments that at times may move you to tears. Rogen shines in this fish out of water story. Technically the film is flawless. We lose sight of the fact that Rogen is playing both parts. He actually comes across like two totally different people. And, he’s not just playing an old stubborn Jewish man, he is living and breathing it. A very impressive performance.
An American Pickle is a complete joy to watch with the whole family. Simon Rich, a gifted writer from SNL, has taken what could have been easily an expanded SNL skit made stale and turned it into a refreshing tale of family, love, faith and hope. The laughs are sometimes subtle and at other times patently hilarious. If you do not have HBO Max, now would be a good time to check it out to see the pickle Rogen gets into.
There seems to be a huge growth in casual ramen noodle restaurants, and a new one has just opened in Henderson. RAMEN BELLY has now hung their sign with its own unique twist that lets all diners customize their order, whether it be a bowl or salad with up to 30 different toppings.
Ramen Belly is replacing Pei Wei restaurant at the Retail Shops at Sunset, close to the intersection of Stephanie Street and Sunset Road. The family owned Ramen Belly prepares all its own noodles and broths daily, so you get fresh to the minute.
You can dine in or take it out. The Ramen bowls, soba salads, and rice bowls can add a multitude of toppings, with pork belly, Chicken Chashu, baby bok choy, bamboo shoots, mushrooms, tofu, egg, and truffle salt, plus a choice of broths, miso, shio, tonkotsu, shoyu, or vegetarian.
Authentic Japanese beverages of Yakult, Calpico, or Ramune, side dishes include gyoza, chicken karaage, Japanese spring rolls, fried wontons, and a Hawaiian-style fried rice, created with 3 different meats, including spam, bacon, and braised pork belly.
Located at 1311 W. Sunset Rd. #120 in Henderson. Open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day of the week.
I was speaking to one of our RMS representatives, with whom I am currently doing a one on one training program, and we came upon the topic of the importance of having a success routine. I have found that successful people have a routine while others who are struggling tend to have no consistency. Having a success routine will reduce stress and allow you to have more productive time.
Developing a success routine and sticking to it requires discipline. I believe that it all starts out by doing this in the morning. Winners wake up early. Many successful people agree that their most productive time is in the morning. This is why establishing a morning routine will help you develop good habits which will help you to focus and accomplish much more throughout the day.
Recently, I have been asking different representatives to tell me about their morning routine. The most successful ones wake up at the same time and have a routine they stick to each and every day. Others, who may not have as much success, are kind of all over the map. They don’t have much of a routine at all.
I have a few questions for you today. The first one is “Are you ready to go to the next level on your success journey?” I’m assuming that the answer is a definite YES. The next question that I have is “What is your morning routine?”
I am all about improvement and growth, so today I’m going to give you a few pointers that will help you get to the next level. Perhaps you have not been considered an early riser or a morning person so this may take some time. If you’re ready to go to that next level, here are some positive habits to help you.
1) Wake up at the same time every day.
I wake up every day at 4 AM. It’s very rare that I need the alarm clock to do that for me. Most of the time I wake up a few minutes before. Keep the alarm clock away from your bed so you actually have to get up to turn it off. This way you will never use the dreaded snooze button.
You will find that keeping yourself on a schedule helps you sleep better. Make sure that you are getting enough sleep. My personal opinion is 7 to 8 hours is more than enough. My routine applies the same at night time as well. 8 PM comes around and I am ready for bed. Once you get on the routine, you will find yourself having much more energy also.
2) Exercise.
This has become a big part of my morning routine. Exercising in the morning has a lot of benefits. It definitely increases your energy. It makes you happier overall and helps you sleep better. Doing morning workouts will give you a sense of accomplishment and it gets you into a positive mindset for your day.
Start small and gradually increase each day. Do some push-ups, sit ups, treadmill and go for a walk.
3) Have some quiet time.
During my exercise time, I have also set time aside for meditation, prayer, and scripture reading. This sets the tone for the day and reduces stress. By having this as part of your morning routine, you will find yourself being much more productive throughout the day. It doesn’t take a long time to do this. Set aside 10 minutes each day in the morning for your quiet time.
4) Be prepared for the day.
You should already have everything set up for the day. This means you should actually do this the night before. Know exactly where you are going and what your goals and plans are for the day. You will find yourself being much more calm with this routine. Flying by the seat of your pants only create stress. Be prepared each day and plan your success.
5) Eat breakfast.
I’m not one for eating a giant breakfast, but I do believe it’s important to start your day with a healthy breakfast. For me it’s fruit and I drink a lot of water. Breakfast isn’t just important for your body, but it’s also necessary for your brain as well. You will find that your concentration and productivity will be greatly improved when you eat in the morning.
Personally, for me my morning routine consists of about three hours. My other activity in the morning is singing and playing guitar, I do this for about 30 minutes. I am out the door each day by 7AM ready to take on the day and ready to make it happen.
If, up to this point, you have not found yourself with a good, positive routine make the decision starting today to get one. It’s going to take discipline, but you can do this. Make the commitment and never look back.
National Guacamole Day is September 16 and is always a festive day.
Avocados are a great tasting and healthy addition to any meal. Mix the famous guacamole with lime juice, tomatoes, onion, and seasonings to your taste—make guacamole a super addition to a salad, sandwich, side dish, or with the always popular tortilla chips.
Since avocados fall under the superfood category, feel free to eat as much as you like. They are filled with good fats and nutrients, and with the fresh taste of lime and hint of spice, the dip is flavorful and very easy to make.
Guacamole is versatile, too. Add it as a topping on a quesadilla or even add it to a salad, or just top some on sourdough bread for a light sandwich. Of course, the simplest way to enjoy is by dipping your favorite tortilla chip.
Originating with the Aztecs in Mexico, guacamole is an avocado-based sauce which has become popular in American cuisine.
Using a mortar and pestle, mash ripe avocados and then mix in a little sea salt. Add fresh tomatoes, onion, garlic, and lemon juice, and then add what your particular palette tells you to—hot sauce, yogurt or other seasonings. You can also go for spicier guacamole and add jalapeños, chilies, cumin, or red pepper. Share your recipes and find the best combination.
Use #NationalGuacamoleDay to share on social media.
You’ve added new books to your “to read” list. You’ve added activist tasks to your “must-do” list. You’ve learned the names of all of the black representatives in your state. Now, it’s time to get familiar with the black designers who will have you looking fabulous the next time you’re ready to dress to impress.
Ade Hassan
Ade Hassan launched lingerie and hosiery company, Nubian Skin, in 2014. She wanted to fill a need for women with darker skin to have lingerie and hosiery with four skin tones to help women find their own “nude” color to wear under other garments.
Akosua Afriyie-Kumi
Akosua Afriyie-Kumi founded AAKS to share weaving techniques from Ghana with the world at large while also creating a sustainable job market in Ghana. AAKS bags are all hand-woven, and they come in a variety of bright colors.
Amaka Osakwe
Amaka Osakwe is a Nigerian designer and the owner of fashion brand Maki Oh. She founded her womenswear business in 2010. Many notable women have worn her clothing including Solange Knowles, Azealia Banks, and former First Lady, Michelle Obama.
Anifa Mvuemba
Anifa Mvuemba recently made Vogue UK when she staged an Instagram Live fashion show using 3D renderings instead of models, giving viewers a glimpse inside the future of post-COVID-19 fashion. She began her fashion career at 21, and she’s a trendsetter, for sure.
Aryea Kolubah
Bold. Daring. Colorful. All three words don’t do justice when it comes to describing 23-year-old Aryea Kolubah’s eponymous brand. She uses bold ethnic prints with bright colors to create garments for women not afraid to make a splash. Recently, she’s added masks and headwraps to her collection.
Berny Martin
Berny Martin is the designer behind Catou. He designs both womenswear and menswear that makes a splash. He started his brand in 2005 for professionals. He’s received international recognition including from MTV, BET, and Ebony Magazine.
Carly Cushnie
Carlie Cushnie, owner of CUSHNIE, established her brand in 2008. Her aesthetic is one that embraces sculptural, clean lines and precise tailoring. In addition to Jennifer Lopez and Jessica Biel, Ashley Graham and Beyoncé have sported her garments.
Chantel Davis
CASTAMIRA is Chantel Davis’ luxury swimwear brand. This former model wanted to create swimwear that looks good on every body while also having impeccable fit. Her initial collection is made up of one piece suits.
Christopher John Rogers
Christopher John Rogers is a recent recipient of the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund. Prior to that, he was making his gorgeous gowns and suits from his apartment living room in Brooklyn. We’re definitely thankful he was able to get a studio in Soho. His creations are now available on Net-A-Porter.
Darryl Brown
Darryl Brown started his career as a steel worker before he made his mark in the fashion industry. Darryl Brown has styled Kanye West, and recently released his first collection. This collection is inspired by those working in blue-collar industries.
Dumebi Iyamah
Dumebi Iyamah is another Nigerian fashion designer and is the owner of the Andrea Iyamah fashion brand. She founded her brand when she was 17 and works in both Ontario, Canada and Lagos, Nigeria to create global fashion that makes a statement.
Fe Noel
Fe Noel designs womenswear. She uses a lot of color and bold prints in her designs. She takes inspiration from her Caribbean heritage and brings that to every project she works on with her collections. Bright red bodysuits, crop tops, and sheer pants are all part of the summer collection.
Glenroy March
Glenroy March’s House of D’Marsh launched in 2003. He obtained his training from studying at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts working in the costume department. He loves architecture and works to incorporate it and his surroundings in his designs.
James Flemons
James Flemons is the designer behind Phlemuns. His creations embrace unisex pieces with classic silhouettes. His current collection includes masks, sweatpants, sweaters, and backless t-shirts. Most of his clothing is androgynous and both men and women will want to be wearing his latest styles.
Kenneth Ize
Kenneth Ize brings Nigerian crafts to textiles and fashion. He works directly with artisans in Nigeria to produce his colorful and culturally inspired designs. Recent pieces in his collection are bright and embrace orange, bright green, and other bright colors to create a unique menswear collection.
Kerby Jean-Raymond
Kerby Jean-Raymond is the mastermind behind brand Pyer Moss. My favorite piece in the collection is the red wide-leg silk tuxedo trouser. Everything in the Pyer Moss collection has an architectural quality about it that stands out from competitors.
Kyemah Mcentyre
Kyemah Mcentyre made headlines for her gorgeous prom dress made with an African print. It went viral and celebrated black pride. Her brand, The Mind of Kye launched while she was still a student at Parsons design. She has dresses, masks, tops and more in her online shop.
When I was in my twenties and first heard about Solzhenitsyn’s book, I was not interested.The hard-to-pronounce name of the author, the strange title of his work and its enormous size sufficed to put me off.But over the years, as I heard more about Solzhenitsyn, I was drawn to his history of the Soviet Union’s prison camp system.
The Gulag Archipelago, which was published at separate intervals during the 1970s, is a massive three-volume work (I should mention that an abridged version has been made available).A pervasive silence with regard to the evils of Communist Russia justified the length of Solzhenitsyn’s study.Even today those evils are largely ignored or rationalized or made to look like something that they were not.And, of course, the vast majority of those who would have provided first-hand testimonies never came forth from the slave labor camps.Some twenty million people were killed under Stalin’s leadership alone.But Stalin’s precursor, Lenin, was no slouch when it came to oppressive measures and mass murder.In any case, Solzhenitsyn, a survivor of this tyranny, tried to serve as a voice for those who did not survive.
Another reason that I was initially uninterested in The Gulag Archipelago was that its subject seemed too remote and irrelevant, like histories about the Huns or Genghis Khan.In short: “What does this have to do with the world that I know?”But after delving into it, I came to realize just how relevant it is; and not only in the negative sense.
The negative relevance of Solzhenitsyn’s book concerns innumerable issues with which we are all familiar today: threats against free speech; the practice of imposing guilt and shame upon those who are guilty of nothing; a fawning, groveling, agenda-driven media, and so on.The positive relevance of Solzhenitsyn’s book can be summed up in two words: spirituality and wisdom.
The Gulag Archipelago is a profoundly spiritual book.While it does not push a particular religious faith, it strongly suggests that the rejection of God and religious values inevitably leads to mass dehumanization.Moreover, the author inspires gratitude, a deep appreciation for the most ordinary goods of this life: bodily health, food and drink and sufficient clothing, shelter from inclement weather, the freedom to merely stretch out comfortably, and the companionship of people who love us and value us.
And as a sample of Solzhenitsyn’s wisdom, I conclude with the following quote:
“Gradually it was disclosed to me that the line separating good and evil passes not through states, nor between classes, nor between political parties either—but right through every human heart—and through all human hearts.The line shifts.Inside us, it oscillates with the years.And even within hearts overwhelmed by evil, one small bridgehead of good is retained.And even in the best of all hearts, there remains … an un-uprooted small corner of evil.”
Screening in Limited Theaters Available on VOD/Digital
Friday, September 4, 2020 Tuesday, September 8, 2020
Directed by: Michael Paszt
Featuring: Professional Wrestler Ian Hodgkinson (Vampiro)
and Dasha Hodgkinson
Semi-retired professional wrestler Ian Hodgkinson reveals the harsh realities behind the glamour of being in the world of wrestling as the infamous ‘Vampiro’. A Lucha Libre legend, Hodgkinson tells the astonishing story about his meteoric rise to fame in the 90s and how it almost killed him. Yet none of that was as back-breaking as his current life – working behind-the-scenes as the Director of Talent for Lucha Libre AAA in Mexico City and Lucha Underground in Los Angeles, while simultaneously raising his teenage daughter Dasha in remote Northern Canada as a single parent.
Unlike many professional wrestling documentaries before, director Michael Paszt has constructed a fascinating and heartfelt look at a wrestler who has overcome and continues to battle with physical injuries, sexual abuse, and drug addiction. Not to mention the wild stories of working for Milli Vanilli, and wrestling alongside the punk rock band The Misfits – Vampiro’s stories are multi-faceted and completely enthralling.
Told through an engrossing collection of home videos and personal interviews with his closest friends and family, NAIL IN THE COFFIN is an intimate and genuine look into a single father grappling with fame, the pressures of professional and personal responsibilities, and his own mortality.
NAIL IN THE COFFIN celebrated its world premiere at Fantastic Fest in 2019, coming out with raving reviews. The film will be releasing in limited theaters on Friday, September 4, 2020 and will be available on major VOD/Digital platforms beginning Tuesday, September 8, 2020.
“NAIL IN THE COFFIN: The Fall and Rise of Vampiro is an incredibly inspirational true story that shows us no matter how many times life tries to beat you down and break you apart, you need to rise up and conquer your demons in order to survive,” says Patrick Ewald, CEO of Epic Pictures (U.S. Distribution). “And now, as we are faced with incredible challenges all around us, I can’t think of a more relevant film to remind us of the resiliency and power of the human spirit.”
RT: 88min | Not Yet Rated
Genre: Documentary | Canada
NAIL IN THE COFFIN is directed by Michael Paszt. Produced by Pasha Patriki and Paszt, associate producer Maye Ornelas and executive produced by Gregor Habsburg, Jacquelyn Frisco, Ian Hodgkinson, Marisela Peña, Dorain Roldån, James Fler, and Andrew Thomas Hunt. Cinematography by Patriki, and edited by Danny Palmer.
NAIL IN THE COFFIN will be available on VOD/Digital Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2020:
Indemand | Comcast | Spectrum | Charter | Dish | Sling TV | Vubiquity
iTunes | Google Play | Vudu | Xbox | YouTube | Amazon
Fandango Now | DirecTV | Breaker | Alamo On Demand
This past week, I had the blessing of being a guest on a podcast show with two very positive young men. The name of the show is “The Best You Nation with Finn and Adler.” Each week they cover a new topic with the goal of bringing out the best in all people. I’m definitely on board with their way of thinking, and I truly believe that each of us were designed to accomplish wonderful and great things. Life is short and it goes by fast and there is only one YOU. You are unique and you are designed with a great purpose.
The sad truth is that many people do not achieve their full potential. Unfortunately, the graveyard is full of people with dreams that never came to fruition.
I believe the first step is to realize there is greatness within each of us, it all starts with belief. We need to find out what our gifts are and how we can use them to their full potential. Make the decision to be the best YOU that you can be.
Let me encourage you not to fall into the comparison trap. When we compare ourselves to others, it will make us feel like we are not good enough. This is why people buy things with money they don’t have to impress people they don’t even know or like. When we only do things to satisfy others, we neglect our own interests and passions. I believe now is the time to get focused on becoming the best version of yourself.
A key ingredient to becoming “the best you” is to love yourself. So many people in life put themselves down and have low self-esteem. Be proud of who you are and all of your accomplishments. You are God’s creation and he wants the very best for you, don’t get down on yourself. Instead, spend a few minutes every day writing down some things you did that you’re proud of. This could be simple things or it can also be accomplishing one of your big goals.
Another way to become “the best you” is to surround yourself with positive and successful people. Remember, you become who you hang around with. The goal is to keep growing and keep improving. Read inspirational and uplifting books. Listen to and watch videos and podcasts that are filled with inspiration and great, practical advice. Don’t get caught up with all the negativity on social media. Use social media and read only posts that will lift you up. It’s important to put yourself in the best environment to help you succeed.
As I stated, you are also gifted with great strengths. Find those strengths and traits that others love and admire about you. Think of areas that you are really good at and use those strengths to bring out the best in others as well as yourself.
Becoming “the best you” is a journey and it’s also going to take a commitment and a lot of focus. No one ever said it was going to be easy, you will be faced with challenges and difficulties in your life. Whenever these tough decisions or challenges cross your path, stop and ask yourself, “What would the best version of myself do?” I believe that you already have the answer. Now, the most important thing is to act upon it.
Make a commitment starting today that you are going to be “the best you” in every phase of your life. It all starts with belief. It is a mindset and it is a journey. None of us have arrived and there will always be room for improvement. Enjoy the growth process and be a blessing wherever you go. BECOME THE BEST YOU.
X Pot, is the new hot pot restaurant at the Grand Canal Shoppes at the Palazzo. The restaurant only has the lounge open so far, but they are anticipating the dining room before this article goes to print. Once open, robot servers will be the highlight. Once completely open, the restaurant will feature an entertainment experience with 360-degree projections in high-def, interactive light shows, accompanied by themed sounds to go along with Sichuan hot pot tradition.
Creators Haibin Yang and David Zhao who started with Chubby Cattle in Chinatown have come along with Asian fusion dishes, including A5 Wagyu beef and Kobe beef dry-aged for 100 days. Diners can select the quality and level of meat based on how long the beef has been aged. Diners can also, if they wish, choose and cook their own ingredients; ranging from seafood to meat and vegetables. For now, the lounge offers a menu of oyster shooters, wagyu beef sushi, seafood platters, and marinated cherry tomatoes.
When the dining room opens, X Pot will feature performances that include ancient Chinese face-changing ceremonies, noodle dances, and table animation shows, all of them paired with its smart-robot technology.
X Pot, Grand Canal Shoppes, 3377 Las Vegas Boulevard S., 866-888-9768. Open Monday through Thursday from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. and Friday through Sunday from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Avoidance may feel safe, but it is a thief. It spares you heartbreaks, but it starves you of healing. And if every door stays closed, how will love ever enter? How will you ever be seen, truly seen, and unconditionally cherished?
