Film Review: WALLACE & GROMIT IN THE CURSE OF THE WERE-RABBIT

This Academy Award winner (Best Animated Feature Film - 2006) stars the immensely popular British animated characters, Wallace and Gromit - Wallace (voiced by Peter Sallis), a typical Brit villager with an unusually strong penchant for cheese, and his more-than-devoted dog Gromit. Here, the dynamic duo own and operate "Anti-Pesto" - a humane pest control service that rids the local villagers of rabbit infestations that threaten their belovd vegetable gardens.

Never more so are their services needed, as the biggest event of the season - the annual giant vegetable growing competition - is coming up fast, and the last thing the village resdients need are their gardens destroyed! Further, the services of Anti-Pesto guarantee the no harm comes to the animals; indeed, the basement of Wallace & Gromit's flat rather resembles a rabbit sanctuary. Wallace even finds time for a little romantic ambition on the side, as he and Gromit help the beautiful Lady Tottington (a delicate Helena Bonham Carter) rid her rather large estate's grounds of a major herd of rabbits - much to the chagrin of the money-hungry Victor Quartermaine (voiced with just enough brilliance by Ralph Fiennes), who himself hopes to marry both Lady Tottington and her money.

But Victor is the last of Wallace & Gromit's worries when a giant, crazed, vegetable-devouring beast - a giant rabbit - suddenly appears on the scene, and not only threatens the giant vegetable competition ... but also Wallace's romance. Because Lady Tottington has commissioned Wallace & Gromit to rid the village of the beast - even as Victor Quartermaine grabs up his rifle to do the very same, in a bid to win back Lady Tottington's heart (and money).

I truly loved this movie. It's been years since I've seen Wallace & Gromit in anything, and catching this film was a weclomed return to their world. I only WISH I had a dog as devoted as Gromit, for sure - so will you, after seeing what that poor animal goes through to protect Wallace and the village (but mostly Wallace). This film truly deserved its Oscar - it's funny, engaging, well-written and beautifully-voice, with a good storyline that will appeal to both adults and kids alike. The ending is a wild rollercoaster of action that ties up everything well. Brilliant film.

Film Review: CHILDREN OF MEN

I have struggled and struggled with how to write this review - let alone begin it. I seriously cannot remember the last time a film affected me as much as Children of Men. Director Alfonso Cuaron, after rising to such fame with Y Tu Mama Tambien that he was given Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban to helm, here has created a film that is heartbreaking, soul-stirring, and - most importantly - life-affirming. THIS kind of film is what moviemaking was born to be - real art. I just hope I can do it justice in a short review.

The film is based on a novel by P.D. James, the story set in 2027 - in a world ravaged by disease, terrorism, and nuclear fallout (yep, very grim stuff). Humanity has become infertile, the last baby - Baby Diego - born in 2009 ... and in fact the film opens with Baby Diego's murder - the youngest person on earth now gone, as Britain mourns the loss of any potential for humanity's future. Britain, in fact, has become a wasteland of violence and oppression - immigration practically a crime to the point where refugees (or "Fugees", as they're called here) are rounded up and put into concentration camps, any insubordinance dealt with via a beating or bullet to the head.

Clive Owen is brilliant as Theo Faron, a former activist now working within the system who is contacted by his ex, Julian (Julianne Moore) - leader of the resistance group known as "The Fishes" - to help with getting papers for a young fugee woman to escape Britain for a sanctuary-at-sea known as The Human Project ... a group trying to find a cure for humanity's infertility so that the human race can go on. Julian knows Theo's cousin can arrange a passport and papers, and Theo indeed does so, for a price (and also out of the love he still has for Julian; the couple had a son, together, Dylan, who died from the plague that initially wiped out most of humanity - and created the infertility, most likely - back in 2008). The only hitch - the papers require that Theo travel with the girl, named Kee (Clare-Hope Ashitey), at least to the border, and before he knows it, Theo finds himself embroiled in a twisted plot where he no longer knows who the good guys or the bad guys really are ... as he fights like hell, through the destruction that is now Britain, to escort Kee to safety.

For he has no choice, because Kee is eight months pregnant - the first woman in nearly 19 years to conceive - and she alone, with Theo's help, may hold mankind's future in her belly.

I could write forever about this film. Cuaron and cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki have created a world of grim despair for humanity, a world at war with itself - a war it seemingly cannot win. Combat and action scenes are shot at close-range, in an in-your-face style that makes you feel you are right there in the middle of it all. Owen and Moore are utterly convincing, and the supporting cast - Ashitey, plus Chiwetel Ejiofor as Julian's second-in-command, Michael Caine as Theo's pothead-hippie best friend, and Pam Ferris as Kee's midwife/companion to the boat that will lead them to safety - all turn in performances so natural, you easily forget these are actors speaking scripted words. I had dinner about twenty minutes after watching this film, and as I sat eating I began to think of the last, say, twenty minutes of the film - and I began to weep; my eyes not just getting watery, but real tears that flowed down my cheeks. I let them come, because behind the tears the film also filled me with a real hope for humanity's potential - of knowing that what we think of every day as so important being, in reality, total crap compared to the real problems of life and living. Children of Men, even in all its grimness and despair, is also perhaps - in its way - the most life-affirming film I have ever seen. I know I will never forget it. This film not only reaches out to (and breaks) your heart - it also wraps itself around your soul.

AFI's "Top 100" Film Review: SUNSET BOULEVARD

Sunset Boulevard is a heavy drama from the brilliant Billy Wilder, featuring Oscar-worthy performances by Gloria Swanson and William Holden. Holden narrates his own story as he plays Joe Gillis, a hack screenwriter in 1950 Hollywood, whose both luck and talent seem to have run out. While literally outrunning the finance company guys who are trying to repossess his car, Gillis blows a tire and has to turn into the seemingly abandoned driveway of an old Sunset Boulevard mansion that is overgrown with weeds and even has rats in the empty swimming pool - where he hides his car in the broken-down garage.

What he learns, pretty quickly, is that this old and ostentatious wreck of a house is indeed inhabited – by silent film era legend Norma Desmond (Swanson), who lives in the sprawling mansion with only her butler - and former director - Max (Erich von Stroheim) for company. At first angry at Gillis' trespassing on her property, Norma – upon learning that he's a screenwriter – enlists his aid in helping her to rewrite the film she's been working on for years … her comeback film, in which she will play the temptress, Salome.

It's really obvious from word one that Norma Desmond isn't playing with a full deck – she's completely lost in the past, and still thinks the world recognizes her as one of the greatest actresses alive today. Controlling and manipulative, Desmond evens takes it upon herself – upon learning of Joe's precarious financial situation – to pay off his car and rent, and even have Max pack up his things and move him to the house, so they can be together to work on the script. Joe fights it at first, but almost has no choice but to agree, and soon begins to feel a gigolo to the older Desmond – maybe 20 years his senior.

But its a good life while Joe gets his act together again, and Norma herself (as well as the house, and grounds) becomes more rejuvenated, comes back to life, at what she begins to see as her new romance. Work on Norma's script (which stinks) goes forward, Joe sort of stretching out the job for the money … until one night when Joe runs into a friend in a pub, and is introduced to a young female reader/aspiring screenwriter, Betty (Nancy Olson), who had earlier dissed one of Joe's scripts at Paramount. Joe and Betty slowly get to know each other, and though Joe resists her repeated attempts to try and get him to co-write a script with him, Betty's admiration of Joe (and their growing attraction to each other) comes to threaten the eccentric Norma Desmond's now-idyllic life … with devastating results.

One of the truly great films of the century, Sunset Boulevard is creepy, funny, dramatic (almost melodramatic, but what would you expect from a silent screen star?), and totally engrossing. Nominated for a bunch of Oscars, the film won 3 – but, unjustly, not for Wilder, or any of the amazing actors. The film spawned the infamous line, "I'm ready for my close-up now, Mr. DeMille," and Carol Burnett spoofed the lead character of "Nora Desmond" in multiple hilarious sketches on her classic variety show. Possibly the only film on record in which you can actually see a funeral for a chimpanzee (told you this one was different!), Sunset Boulevard is a must for anyone interested in the film industry … and what it can do to those choosing to play in it.

AFI's "Top 100" Film Review: PSYCHO

WARNING: Spoilers!

What to say about one of the most iconic suspense films of all time, by the Master of Suspense himself? Considered by many to be Alfred Hitchcock's masterpiece, Psycho (based on the novel by Robert Bloch, which in turn was loosely based on the true story of serial killer Ed Gein) flips the story and starts with the tale of Marion Crane (Janet Leigh), a good girl in love with a man named Sam (John Gavin), who can't afford to marry her because most of the money he earns is taken in alimony. Marion finally gets fed up with their meeting in cheap motel rooms when Sam comes to town, so one day makes the fateful decision to steal $40,000 cash from her boss's lecherous client. She packs her things and heads off in her car, driving to Sam to tell them they can be together at last … but guilt, a curious highway patrol cop, and a torrential rainstorm lead Marion to the Bates Motel – a hole in the wall hideaway that sees little to no business since the highway was built. There, she meets the proprietor, young and handsome boy-next-door Norman Bates, who (at the ire of his mother, an invalid living in the big house behind the motel) makes the two of them sandwiches for dinner. Over a pleasant conversation Marion learns that Norman is the ultimate mama's boy, stuck in his life – and she makes her own decision to not get stuck herself … by returning home and giving back the money, no matter what the consequences.

A quick shower before bed so she can leave in the morning, Marion is indeed literally cleansing herself of her bad deeds, relaxed at last for the first time since we've met her … when, as her back is to the closed bathroom door, we see the tall figure of a woman enter menacingly. Marion is oblivious to what is happening, until the mystery woman rips open the shower curtain, raises a butcher knife high in the air, and – amidst Marion's screams – stabs the naked Marion to death in the shower. It's a chilling, horrifying scene, and when Marion dies you are also sort of freaking out as the viewer … less than an hour into the film, and the lead character, the one you've been identifying with so far in the film, is dead!!

So it's easy to switch loyalties to Norman Bates (even though we've seen him as a peeping tom, watching Marion in her room), as – being the ultimate Good Son – cleans up his beloved mother's crime. As he disposes of the body, Marion's belongings (including the remainder of the $40,000), and her car in the swamp behind the motel, it becomes apparent that maybe this isn't the first mess that Norman's cleaned up for dear mother; indeed, you feel even more sorry for Norman, now knowing that he has to care for a mother who's a psychotic killer.

Meanwhile, Marion's sister Lila (Vera Miles) is finally contacted by Marion's boss, when Marion doesn't show up for work, and she eventually ends up driving over to meet Sam Loomis, asking where Marion is and to speak to her. Sam is dumbfounded – he hasn't heard from Marion, and doesn't know where she is – and at first Lila is skeptical, thinking he is shielding her sister … as does the private detective, Arbogast (Martin Balsam), who's been hired to find the missing money. But both Lila and Arbogast come to believe Sam, and indeed Arbogast's investigation leads him to the Bates Motel, where he has a conversation with Norman that leads him to a fateful confrontation with Norman's mother later on, when Norman isn't around. When Arbogast himself disappears as well, Lila and Sam take it upon themselves to head over to the Bates Motel – to find out, at last, just what's happening there.

Not enough good or even interesting things can be said about this film; at the time it was shocking, made people faint in theaters, and got scathing reviews by many big-name critics, who claimed Hitchcock simply went too far at last. Hitchcock also changed filmgoing as we know it with this one – back then, the practice of people coming to see a movie whenever they wanted, coming in on films halfway through or at anytime during the showing, was common; Hitchcock, in order to protect the secrecy of both Marion Crane's death so early on in the film, as well as the surprising ending, would only let theaters show the film that agreed to NOT seat patrons once the film had begun (there was even a colorful, life-sized cut-out of Hitch in the theaters, declaring that you couldn't be seated once the film began). This helped lead to the now more structured showtimes seen in movie theaters today – and it also helped to make Psycho the huge hit it deserved to be, despite any initial criticism.

Even today, the film still gets your adrenaline going, the shower scene still as suspenseful and shocking as it was back in 1960 – no matter how many times you've seen it. The film is still studied today by aspiring writers and filmmakers, and is still seen as one of the best suspense/horror films ever made. It also forever typecast Anthony Perkins as the tragic Norman Bates (he would go on to play Norman in 3 sequels, as well as parody the same character in other films and on TV), and remains the film actress Janet Leigh is best known for. A rancid (and totally unnecessary) 1998 shot-by-shot remake was pretty much cursed before it even hit theaters – deservedly so, because the original still stands up so well today. Deserving of every film lover's "Top 100" list, Psycho is #14 with the AFI, and could even have been a littler higher. Just a brilliant film, period, as fresh today as it was 47 years ago – and not to be missed.

Celebrity Interview: SKYE McCOLE BARTUSIAK

This is my chat with Skye McCole Bartusiak, who I've admired since she played Pippa in the Stephen King mini-series "Storm of the Century". I am still honing my interviewing skills, but hope you enjoy it.

Houston native Skye McCole Bartusiak first wowed me as a fan when she was five years old and played Pippa in the Stephen King original miniseries "Storm of the Century". Of the child actors who played the (potentially) ill-fated children of Little Tall Island, off the coast of Maine, Skye's performance had the most impact – literally, in a horrifying scene where her character slaps the face of her mom, and utters a word usually not used by a five-year-old, period, much less to her mother.

It was an amazing performance by a five-year-old girl, and Skye hasn't looked back since. With a list of over thirty roles already on her resume, this consummate professional – at the ripe old age of thirteen – can count on Drew Barrymore and Brittany Murphy as friends … recalls fondly her eighth birthday party, which she celebrated with Mel Gibson and Heath Ledger in attendance … and yet still calls Houston, where she's from, her home (though she maintains a place in L.A., when working). An amazing and gifted performer, it was a real pleasure to speak with Skye, who radiates a common sense and maturity that many grown-ups three times her age could only hope for.

You don't realize just how young she was in "Storm of the Century," for instance, until she admits not even remembering how she got the role. "I'm not sure – either we sent in a tape, or I auditioned for it in L.A.," she says. Her mother, a film acting coach, had gotten Skye into modeling from an early age, somehow knowing her daughter had what it took in the industry – and when Skye landed the role of Pippa Hatcher, her first acting gig, she proved to be a natural. Better still, there was no stage mothering going on; Skye adored the work, and does to this day.

More work followed – Hazel in The Cider House Rules, and featured parts on shows like "JAG" and "Judging Amy" and "Frasier" – but to this day Skye still cites her favorite role as the one she portrayed in 2000's The Patriot. As Susan Martin, Skye received accolades for her emotional performance – and had the best time of her life on-set as well, creating it:

"We were on the set maybe 5-6 months, had all become like a really tight family … I loved everyone, and we all really bonded. I really loved it. Remember that whole 'Poppa' scene, where I break down? We did that the last day of shooting, so it was easy to get emotional; I knew we'd all be separating soon."

When asked, later in the interview, about the most fun she's ever had on a set, Skye again remembers – with real enthusiasm in her voice – the Patriot set:

"Oh, it had to be The Patriot – because we were all kids! I remember one day, Trevor (Morgan) and I were playing soccer, in costume, and the wardrobe people were going crazy, running around trying to get him to put a smock on so that he wouldn't get his costume dirty. Being a guy, though, Trevor wouldn't do it … and when he fell in the mud, he almost gave the costume people a heart attack!"

Eating with corpses proved cool, too: "We loved having lunch with the dead guys – they looked great in their makeup … and Mel (Gibson) gave all of us kids nicknames. He called me 'Rat' 'cause I was running around all the time. It was great – my eighth birthday was on the set, and Mel Gibson came to my party. Him and Heath Ledger, everybody was there, it was awesome!" Skye adds here that she recently ran into Ledger ('the nicest guy I've every worked with") in Los Angeles, and at first he didn't recognize her –

Further proof that little Susan Martin had grown up into an accomplished and beautiful young woman.

When asked about her overall preference of medium to work in – as Skye's already done film and TV (as well as stage, playing Helen Keller to no less than 2-time Oscar winner Hilary Swank, as Annie Sullivan) – Skye admits to having her heart for film, where "everything is very personable and social. I'm the kind of person, I like to get comfortable with my surroundings - and when you do a movie, you have more time to get comfortable with everyone and everything on the set."

2001 brought Skye a project that would have her playing the daughter of a Hollywood legend – Michael Douglas – in a suspense thriller that would also see the young actress forming a deep and long-lasting friendship with another of her co-stars – Brittany Murphy. The two remain close to this day, Skye still remembering one of the best pieces of advice she's ever received from her friend and fellow actress: "Brittany always said, 'Never look back on something you've said or done – always move ahead, and go forward.'" The actress taught her not to take time for self-criticism, or for regrets, and indeed Skye has pursued this since – one reason, most likely, for her continued success.

Skye also speaks highly of her other great friend – and Riding in Cars with Boys (also starring Brittany Murphy) co-star – Drew Barrymore, calling the former child star "Amazing – one of the most down-to-earth people I've ever met. I love her to death." And lest anyone reading this interview still believe that successful and professional actors can't be fans, as well … ask Skye, who admits, to this day, that she still has the Charlie's Angels doll Drew autographed for her. Co-star, friend, and fan – Skye can do it all.

Indeed, Skye seems poised for a lifelong career as an actress – and wouldn't have it any other way. Her father, now a chemical engineer, was a scenic designer when he met Skye's mom, a film acting coach. So was Skye's path destined?

You'd think so, especially when asking her what advice she would give to other kids her age, who've thought of pursuing acting:

"You always have to say 'next' – get to your next project. You have to work hard, and really, REALLY have to want it – and love it. (In order to succeed) you really have to want to do it for the rest of your life. I know this is what I want to do with the rest of my life."

Serious words from a serious actress. But then again, who said all had to be serious?

"I want to do a kid's movie!" Skye replies, when quizzed about the kind of character she'd most like to play, but hasn't. "A kooky Christmas movie! A NickTeen kind of movie, or something! Don't get me wrong, I love the dramatic roles – it's what I really love – but it'd just be nice to do something silly, and I think everyone thinks of me as a dramatic actress."

When asked who she is a fan of, she is quick to name "Brittany Murphy and Hilary Swank. I've worked with both, but they're also just amazing actresses. Heath, for sure – and Drew!" When asked about who she'd like to work with – but has yet to – the conversation goes quiet, as Skye thinks. Ultimately unable to name anyone (possibly, this interviewer thinks, because she didn't' want to favor any specific actors), Skye finally admits she can't think of anyone – although would seriously love to work with Heath Ledger and Brittany Murphy again.

On her own opinions of fans, what fans mean to her or her career, Skye's answer comes must faster, and with real conviction. "I really love them, 'cause they help me to be where I am. I have no problem at all with fans." She readily admits to still happily signing autographs for fans in person – and, indeed, still signs all her own autographed photos via mail, as well (no secretaries or autopens for this girl!). Ever appreciative of her fans, Skye's website (www.skyemccolebartusiak.com) even outlines the best way for fans to request her autograph through the mail This is a girl serious about "giving it back" to those who enjoy her work.

But she's equally adamant about "giving it back" when it comes to charities, as well. Benefits for Ronald McDonald House, Kim Basinger's Nuts for Mutts organization, the Special Olympics in Houston – even a cancer run she and her father do every year – show Skye's commitment to helping those less fortunate … and also her commitment for using her celebrity to raise awareness, and funds, for these and other causes.

Amazingly grown up work, for a young woman who still vividly remembers how – at the age of five – she freaked out (to the point of crying) over having to utter the "B" word and slap her mother in a Stephen King miniseries. Seemingly, a grown up woman resides in the 13-year-old child actor – .

But not too grown up, though – for, when asked about the internet rumor floating around that Sandlot 2 actor Cole Evan Weiss is her boyfriend, Skye is quick to reply, "I am not dating Cole; we've been friends for years, and I don't know how that rumor that we're dating got started. It might have been when he took me to an event, or something. My dad says I can date when I am 30 … mom says 16, which I like better." At thirteen, Skye admits that even she thinks she's a bit young for dating, much less to have a boyfriend.

The young actress seems on firmer – and more comfortable – ground when discussing her new work. She plays the daughter of a psychiatrist in the upcoming drama Kill Your Darlings, as well as appearing in another heavy drama, Pineapple. She also has a short film, Razor Sharp, currently "doing the festival circuit," in which she plays a superhero named Isis.

Maybe it's a good thing she is only thirteen – at her age, she has the strength and youth to actually keep up with her busy schedule. But either way, it truly seems the sky's NOT Skye's limit, as in eight years she's established herself as one of the brightest young actors in film and television today. Committed, talented, driven – and yet down to earth enough to keep a sense of humor about it all – the charm and charisma of this young performer can be summed up best when you learn about the little Maltese dog she fell in love with and adopted in 2001 – a dog she named "Pippa."

She'll never forget her roots – or all she's learned from them. And little does she know – that's what makes an actor a true star.

Celebrity Interview: CHARLIE DAVID

I have met many, many actors in my lifetime - many people in the entertainment industry, period - so can say with conviction that it's pretty rare to run into actors with the talent, humility, and genuine heart that I've encountered in my interviews with Gabriel Romero, Jon Fleming, and Gregory Michael of "Dante's Cove".
That said, even amongst those diamonds, Charlie David stood out - "heart" definitely fits this 26-year-old, who has a soft-spoken passion for life and his work I can honestly say I've never experienced to such depth in another human being. This was, by far, the most difficult interview I've ever written - Charlie gave me so much to work with, and revealed so much of himself, that I wanted to make the interview as fair and honest and open as the man who granted it to me.
Hope ya like it, Charlie - and man, all you "Dante's" guys are nothing short of amazing in the eyes of this humble writer.

Charlie David grew up in Saskatchewan with a "huge imagination" – and used it every chance he had, to entertain family and friends from early childhood. "Since I was little, I imagined being in the arts," he recalls. "I did some radio, theater … but if you want to achieve your big dream, you have to make that move." He received his first paycheck at the age of twelve, performing in the popular Charles Dickens' classic, "The Mystery of Edwin Drood" – an unfinished work where audience members vote on the ending they'd most like to see. With a storyline that makes anywhere from 12-20 solutions to the crime possible, the cast (including the pre-teen Charlie) had to be ready, literally at a moment's notice, to perform whatever ending the audience saw fit. Formidable training for a young actor, but Charlie was up to the challenge – so much so, his work on the show led to other offers … and to the realization by his parents (who wanted their son home more) that maybe little Charlie was as talented as he was determined.

Radio jingles, TV commercials and other small projects led Charlie, by the age of fifteen, to the life-changing experience of joining Saskatchewan Express, an innovative musical theater troupe that toured throughout west Canada and the United States. While other teenagers were hanging out, hassling with homework, or just discovering each other at school dances or sporting events, Charlie David was balancing being a kid with following a dream.

"High school was interesting," Charlie admits. "Half the time in school, half the time on the road. It was a great experience, doing 1-3 shows a day … really gave me a taste of life on the road."

Sometimes the balancing act got a bit hectic: "One time, my junior or senior year, when we were right into finals, I did a show … then had to run back to do my departmental exam … then back again. (An actor must have) talent, a packed suitcase, a passport, and a smile; I've always had to travel for work. It's a bit of a gypsy lifestyle, but I love it – can't tell you the countless times you go on an audition … then a day or two later, you're on-set, working."

This vagabond lifestyle of this already-seasoned theatrical performer came to a head during his first year of college, when Charlie's now-best friend – Derek James – had just finished his tour with Disney, and had landed a spot with a boy band. The band had lost its bass voice; Charlie auditioned for the position by phone on a Monday evening …

And by that Wednesday, he was in Malibu for photo-shoots and meetings – his career taking yet another unanticipated turn.

"It was a really manufactured process," Charlie says. " 'Here's a condo; here's a car' – I mean, I had just come out of a performance-based college … and here I was, part of a band where we were all told to just lay around the pool, or go to parties. We hadn't even been in a studio or recorded anything!" Charlie and Derek, knowing they wanted more – wanted to actually create – left the process and "ended up broke in Vegas". Hiring a publicist, the two actor/singers also found two other performers as hungry as they were … and the boy band 4 Now was born.

"We finally got some songs written and recorded, self-producing everything on our own; there were lots of ups and downs with 4 Now." Some of the ups definitely being when the band was often on tour and opening for acts ranging from Snoop Dogg to Pink, Destiny's Child to Black Eyed Peas to Rick Springfield – years Charlie now looks back on with both pride and mixed emotions.

"In the end, we had a deal on the table with Sony," Charlie remembers. "But we had issues and arguments with management, regarding unpaid gigs and such … and Derek and I wanted to pursue acting. While things were settling down with the band, (Derek and I) each got pilots … and the band just kind of faded out."

But professional issues weren't the only clouds hanging over the budding actor/singer/writer … who was also struggling with a public image that – initially – seemed destined to clash with the man he was inside. Being a part of BoyCrazy! magazine opened his eyes to this issue particularly.

"When I was living in Las Vegas, and part of the boy band … it was both the best and worst of times. We were recording, touring, everything was cool – but my personal life was topsy-turvy. The pressure to come across as straight, and to appeal to teen and tween females, was incredible."

Charlie thinks a minute, then continues after a brief sigh, remembering. "The tough part is, I've always been an honest, forthright person; I wasn't strong enough to lead a double life anymore – and it would also be like asking those close to me to lie, and stretch the truth. That would kill me.

"As important as my career is – as much as I love doing what I do – I just couldn't do it."

Part of this strong, true-to-himself character that exists in Charlie David can be traced right back to the core of a strong family, as well. "I came out to my parents when I was 16; my family and friends have always been supportive. It's kind of jarring, even now, to go back – my family is major excited to meet boyfriends, see a wedding; even children.

"I have an older brother in the military, a younger sister in education, and another who's a physical fitness instructor. Our parents were always encouraging with whatever any of us wanted to pursue. It's definitely beyond the realm of their experience – when I call and tell them I'm on a billboard in Times Square, they can't comprehend, necessarily, what that's like – but they get a kick out of what I do. Even my grandparents are wonderful – I was very nervous about telling them, especially regarding the generational difference, but they've been so great; my grandfather even told me he had gay friends in the military, during World War II – and that he can't wait for the marriage, and to be a great-grandfather!"

Indeed, the warmth in Charlie's voice, when speaking of family, is unmistakable – making it easy to see how the well-grounded and humble performer keeps it real, in an industry of pretension and make-believe.

After 4 Now, working as a model in L.A. (some print, some live events) helped pay the bills, but modeling wasn't where Charlie's real passion lay. He readily admits to preferring hosting ("F.Y.E.!", "Crash Test Mommy" and the travel show "Bump!" only name a few) and acting, his two real loves. "Modeling's a little 'static' for me, "he reveals – though Charlie backs up that statement by also admitting that an underwear shoot in El Salvador catered to another real love he has – traveling.

But the multi-talented performer also readily adds the moniker "writer" to his list of growing titles. "It keeps me sane," he says. "Being an actor is a rollercoaster of emotions; right now I am 'on hold' for three projects I'm waiting to hear about. Writing really helps; it's something I can pursue on my own time that keeps me from obsessing over auditions." He's been writing since college, thanks to Julia Cameron's book "The Artist's Way" – which "started it all" according to Charlie, who even now is still currently reworking a novel he's completed. Canada's Reel Fast Film Festival – a challenge that saw Charlie writing, shooting and editing the short film "Is He…" within one 48-hour period, made the actor realize "I really dig this!" He's currently shopping a sitcom idea around to producers, as well – but his main focus is the continuing effort to raise funds for his film Mulligan's (now in development, and with "The L Word" star Thea Gill already attached to co-star), which Charlie describes as a film about "two best friends who go home for the summer holiday, where everything's torn apart when one of the friends has an affair with the other friend's dad." If nothing else gives you a testament to the love and dedication to people, that Charlie David both gives and gets in his life as an artist and human being, consider this: many people working on Mulligan's are donating their time and talent on the film free of charge – just to make a mid-range-budget film on a small budget.

And consider Charlie, the writer himself – who originally wrote the film for himself and best friend Derek James to star in. With Derek now working on a TV show in Russia, Charlie and Rubberducky Films (the production company) have pushed shooting back to the spring – when Victoria Island is at its best, and Derek schedule will be free.

Such is the friendship you get from – and readily give back to – Charlie David.

And it was such a friendship that Charlie was able to hone when the casting director of "Dante's Cove" saw an audition tape of Charlie's, and invited the actor to screen test for "Dante's Cove". That afternoon, the president of Regent Entertainment hired Charlie for the pilot, though for which role Charlie still didn't know. He was already on-set to shoot the pilot when he learned that his friend Sam Irvin was directing – an extra perk already on top of Charlie's learning that he was to play Toby.

"Toby's attractive to me because of the monogamous relationship he has with Kevin. I wanted to put out there my reflection of the gay community, which is that there are gay men out there who want a relationship – want a family. To have the chance to play a character who's in a committed relationship." As someone who also "grew up devouring Anne Rice novels," Charlie "loved the gothic atmosphere" of "Dante's Cove" and is very proud of both the show and his work on it. "I enjoy the fan mail – the recurring theme that people are attracted to the Toby/Kevin relationship like a Rachel/Ross from "Friends" deal: they have issues, but are meant to be together." Charlie likes the fact that fans have told him they feel Toby to be a "friendly, approachable, honest guy – the voice of reason." He has a deep commitment to the character, for sure – but even more so to himself, which is emphasized when asked about what effect he feels being an openly gay actor may have on the future of his career.

"There will be many roles I'll never be considered for – or get – as an openly gay actor. That's not easy to think about … but it's okay. There are amazing things happening, but we're not there yet – we're still praising straight actors for playing gay, but why is that so amazing when it's just another character? As members of the LBGT (Lesbian, Bisexual, Gay and Transgender) community, we have many different faces – come from all walks of life – and it's important to me to bring a strong representation of that community forward." He admits to having seen amazing growth – even in his personal life, as his mom now calls him to recommend gay –themed movies that she has seen and enjoyed –

"But if I play gay characters for the rest of my life, I'm cool with that – so long as they're interesting characters who challenge me." After a moment he adds, "There will be challenges in my career- times when I'll be pigeonholed – but maybe if that happens to me now, maybe the next generation may not have to go through that … can maybe just go through their job, without anyone wondering about who they love or sleep with."

Amazing words from an amazing man – but before every gay man in America brushes off their dance shoes and tapes Charlie David pin-ups to their wall … you need to know, this is one of the good ones who's taken:

"I have the most amazing man in my life; we sit down for dinner at night and talk through the day – have coffee in the morning. We're supportive, we really love each other. He wants the best for me – for us – and beyond what we do separately, we work on projects together. When I'm kissing someone on screen, he knows it's my job – at the end of the day, we know where the love is."

Beyond "Dante's Cove', Charlie's just finished shooting a four letter word in New York City – an indie film that will be doing the festival circuit in the spring of 2007, sort of a "gay Pretty Woman" in which Charlie plays a street hustler who falls in love with a pathological liar ("A neat twist on playing a friendly, upbeat guy like Toby."). Meanwhile, he continues with hosting, and continues seeking roles that challenge him:

"Something quite dark. I'm often cast as the guy next door; someone like Ambrosius (the darkest character on "Dante's Cove") would be a challenge. Maybe someone mentally disturbed – a sociopath – like the characters in Running with Scissors." Actors who inspire his own work include Gael Garcia Bernal ("He is fearless as a performer, and seems to have a huge emotional well to draw on), and loves the comedic styles of actors like Owen Wilson, Seann William Scott, and even Will Ferrell ("I would love to play both ends of the spectrum.")

With such openness, you'd think Charlie David would have no side not easily seen by the public – but in fact, when asked what fan should probably know about him that they may now know already, the answer is both a surprise … yet totally in keeping with Charlie's character.

"The fact that I am an aspiring family man. That path is very important, and I just can't wait to have kids. Not now, but maybe within a 5-year window." He's already looked into the adoption process, as well as sought advice from friends who've adopted from overseas. "I'm definitely a planner," he adds. "The idea needs to be well thought-out; bringing a child into your life should be planned." Other goals in that 5-year window include seeing more of his screenplays developed/produced … as well as the hope that more challenging roles will come to him as a an actor. He also seeks to continue hosting, as he loves the personalities he meets and the traveling that comes with the job – and definitely marriage and maybe a first child fit into the plan, as well. "I'm going to be the type of person who will have a long career path in this industry, but who won't be career-obsessed; kind of like Warren Beatty or Annette Bening.

And in further giving back all that he gets, Charlie also hopes to always continue working with his favorite causes, like the Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation (an organization dedicated to helping kids with cancer and leukemia – http://www.candlelighters.org/, http://www.candlelighters.ca/). He also works with inner city gangs, and is a huge supporter of independent film via First Weekend Club (http://www.firstweekendclub.ca/). Hollywood HEART (http://www.hollywoodheart.org/), a Los Angeles non-profit organization that provides recreational and educational opportunities to at-risk youth, is a cause he and his partner hope to work with more in the future, as well.

He's flattered (and happily complies) when asked for an autograph, often doing signings at Pride events in Canada and the USA. "I do a lot of public appearance stuff," Charlie says. "It's wonderful to meet fans in person, talk about the shows and get to know them. If people don't have access to me one-on-one, they can email me through my website (http://www.charliedavid.com/) for a headshot, postcard – whatever." Indeed, Charlie's website is informative and entertaining enough, even non-fans will have fun exploring all the pages have to offer.

Definitely a man who wants to make a difference in the world, and in people – none of which shows more than in Charlie's reply, after a long thought, when asked how he'd like to be remembered 100 years from now:

"I want to be remembered for the creations I put into the world – whether via writing, film, or acting… that people got enjoyment from it, education from it, and that is serves as an indication of where we were in 2006.

"I'll be a little dot on the map – a performer who came out early, and enabled other performers, who've come out since, to be able to be who they are." Not a bad legacy for a show biz-loving kid from Regina, Saskatchewan, who was born with a huge imagination - and an even bigger heart.

Celebrity Interview: EDDIE STEEPLES

A favorite interview subject of mine, I had the pleasure of talking with Eddie Steeples just prior to his going into production on the first season of "My Name is Earl". I've met a LOT of famous (and infamous) people in my life, but Eddie is one of the most down to earth guys you could ever know. Am so glad "Earl" is a hit; it deserves to be, and so does he. But yeah, this one was done prior to the show, hence some of the references in the interview to the series being forthcoming.
This guy is also one BUSY guy, so was glad to get him to stay still long enough to speak to me. Again, one of my favorite subjects - and I hope you enjoy learning more about this great guy.

The hit song by The Spinners sort of says it all ...

"Hey, y'all prepare yourself"For the RubberBand man."You never heard a sound"Like the Rubberband man."You're bound to lose control"When the Rubberband starts to jam!"

And OfficeMax saw it too, in the form of a young musical artist/actor, turning him into a character soon recognized around the world – and a series of commercials recognized with an Emmy award.

It was my first glimpse of Eddie Steeples, too – strutting like a peacock between a row of cubicles, pushing a cartful of office supplies, hair out to there and with the supreme confidence of a guy with all the answers. It took some time to realize this was the same guy who played Rasan in the hyperactive cycle film Torque, but once I did – and I saw the Christmas OfficeMax commercial – I realized the cliché "a star is born" was no cliché where this guy was concerned.

In one of my favorite Famous Fans interviews so far (and MONTHS in the making, thanks to the insane schedule of this multitalented man with more energy than a roomful of preschoolers), it was my pleasure to corner Eddie Steeples on the phone at last, to talk about his life and work and that damned RubberBand Man …

Raised in Spring, Texas by a mother who dabbled a bit in show business herself, from the ripe old age of four Eddie Steeples knew he was going to be an entertainer. Most of his love for the business came from every kid's favorite medium – television – but for Eddie that magical world held a personal fascination … his own mother did commercials for television, modeling. That started it all, and at various points a young Eddie wanted to be a cop ("Starsky & Hutch"), a highway patrolman ("CHiPs"), or a stuntman ("The Fall Guy"), depending on his favorite show at the time. But when he discovered Steve McQueen – the legendary actor who did his own stunts, as well – well, the thought of being able to jump out of airplanes, and drive fast cars – it was the actor's life for Eddie Steeples! After brief stints studying theater in Santa Cruz, then at St. Louis Repertory, the young actor took his dreams to the mean streets of New York City in the mid-1990's …

"When I moved to New York City it was a playground for me to develop my skills as an artist," Eddie remembers. "I wrote poetry in high school … was into music in Jersey and in D.C. … I met Nomad of No Surrender (the avant-garde hip hop group Eddie remains a big part of to this day) while passing out flyers in a club [and] when from poetry to spoken word to rap." No Surrender proved to be a perfect fit for Eddie's style and flow, and his contribution to the group continued … and it was in 1996 that Eddie met director Kevin Ford of Mo-Freek, an experimental indie film outfit. "I met Kevin while doing a play at LaMama (one of NYC's most popular experimental theaters) … saw that he was into theater [at the time], but I wanted to do film – that was my real desire."

And sure enough, Eddie's association with Mo-Freek kept Eddie busy with a string of roles in Mo-Freek productions including Caravan Summer and Lost in the Bush. Though proving himself a talented dramatic actor, Eddie was also able, during this time, to flex his muscles with comedy – no less than on Chris Rock's hit television show. When asked about working for/with a real king of comedy:

"It was great; it really gave me that first taste of the professional, real television and film world. It was small, very intimate … I only did a couple of skits, but it was really like being a part of the family. [I] wish I could have been around it more, to learn – but I had a great time."

Relocating to Los Angeles to pursue film acting led to Eddie's breakthrough role as Rasan in Torque, but Eddie barely had no time to concentrate on the fame sneaking up on him (or his resulting spotlight in People magazine's "50 Most Beautiful People" issue of last year!) – he was too busy working on writing, producing, directing, AND acting in his own production - Robbers, a film which recently wrapped production. Does a man wearing so many hats worry about maybe devoting too little time to one thing while trying to juggle so many balls in the air? Eddie's answer is yes, but it seems to be the only route for now …

"It is difficult, no doubt … but at the same time, I feel like if I only gave it all to just one of those things, I'd have so much free time, I'd go crazy …

"I do find it … sometimes I hate it, I feel like I could be so much farther if I just concentrated on one thing. Acting comes easiest to me, but I'm not sure of what direction I'm going in … I just want to become a better person – to grow spiritually – to see where it goes … "

Also one entertainer who definitely "remembers where he came from," Eddie adds his desire to pay it back by adding, "I would love to have my own production company … be able to help others who don't have the same opportunities. [I] would love to be able to do that, and help."

But that may have to put on hold, for fame caught up with Eddie Steeples at last, in the form of his friend Rene, at a local casting agency … who called Eddie in about a casting she was working on … seems she had a client looking for RubberBand Man for a commercial for OfficeMax. Eddie turned down the chance – repeatedly!

"She said they were looking for a RubberBand Man … the first few times I refused .. but she kept calling because they hadn't found anyone – nagging me! (he says with a chuckle) – but I was focused on film. Finally, I went as a favor … ended up doing the first one, then it was a hit and they wanted more …"

"The people at OfficeMax and DDB (the advertising agency) were really cool – it was fun, but I ran across a lot of people who said I shouldn't have done it."

And sure enough, the resulting fame changed Eddie's life forever. Eddie Steeples, now a recognizable face on the streets, was just realizing his first love-hate battle with fame:
:
"It's a catch-22 … nerve-wracking, but wonderful … your privacy becomes open to the public, and you get special treatment, - which everyone should get, everyone is special, but doesn't …" He also admits it's "a weird mental thing; I can see why people lose it. If you're not grounded, you can get lost in all that illusion."

And Steeples stays grounded by staying busy, and always making it about your next project. Along with finishing up Robbers, Eddie's been spending what few minutes he has working on his first solo album …

"It's slow … coming along." When asked what kind of music fans can expect, Eddie replies, with hesitation, "[It's] hard to describe … sort of rock/hip hop, [but] more like crazy electronic beats, with layers of guitar and drums … future music." He foresees its release sometime in 2007, "realistically," as he's busy writing the script for a film he'd like to shoot first.

Favorite actors that have inspired Eddie Steeples include Don Cheadle ("really a fan of his work, and he just seems like a good person – you can tell"), Johnny Depp ("inspires [me] in his choice of characters; he won't be fitted to a certain mold") and Clint Eastwood ("I would love to work with Eastwood") … but Eddie cites one of his greatest inspirations of his life as Ms. Wilma Marcus-Chandler, a former teacher of his at Cabrillo College. "She taught me how to act," is how he puts it, adding how much he still thanks her for the free classes she allowed a struggling young actor to take, simply because she saw the devotion he had to his craft.

Having even survived a brief brush with the horrible tsunami disaster in Thailand, Steeples came back tot the States with full determination to continue to work and grow and learn … he has a supporting role in the upcoming Akeelah and the Bee, starring Angela Bassett and Laurence Fishburne – and this fall co-stars in "My Name is Earl" on NBC. According to Eddie, "Earl" is "really about a guy who wins the lottery, and about karma and righting all your wrongs." Jason Lee plays Earl, and Eddie will play Darnell, Earl's friend who works at a crab shack. Eddie describes the show as "taking it to the next level of what can be done on TV – I think it's going to be one of those shows, where either you're going to love it … or want it to go away." Indeed, the show – which premieres September 20 at 9pm Eastern Time on NBC – sounds like another cutting edge series for NBC that could bring Eddie Steeples even more fame than a certain office supply delivery guy …

And now that he has fans, what does Eddie think about them – of fame – of being asked for his autograph? Well, like everything else, the guy's opinions on these points are quite grounded in reality, as well …

"I don't mind – it depends on the person and how they ask … when people ask and they obviously don't know me – are just asking because they saw other people asking – I ask myself, 'Why?'

"I love it, but there are levels and degrees. I think it's cool, it's an honor that people are out there loving what you do … but I was driving in my truck the other day, [when] a guy a couple of cars ahead in the other lane saw me and brought out a camera, started taking pictures of me. It was weird, kind of nerve-wracking – [to know that] can happen anywhere, anytime, any place … I know it will get kind of crazy."

Indeed, if "Earl" is a hit, things could get VERY crazy, indeed. But Eddie has a plan – he always had – and when asked where he'd like to be in five years, Eddie's instant answer tells much about the heart of the man inside, for without hesitation he replies:

"I would love to be able to have already retired my mother. I would also have liked to have already produced and directed several films. Also to have spiritual and mental tranquility."

That last one may be difficult in L.A., for sure, but it anyone can do it – Eddie Steeples can. One exceptional man – one exceptional talent – he still doesn't even try to hide the kid inside, when quizzed about the kinds of roles he'd most love to still do:

"If I play more than one kind of role once, I get bored. I would like to play a real-life person … bad guys, villains …

"A sci-fi film, where I shoot rays out of my fingers! I wanna do it all!"

And from the enthusiasm in his voice … you can believe he will.