The Dishmaster

Justin Timberlake deserves a lot of credit. Not only did he make a successful solo artist transition, but he’s actually one of very few men who have managed to move from music to acting. And to top that off, he’s in Lorne Michaels good graces, having hosted SNL more than once. So will he ever return to music? Judging from the self-indulgent video below, all signs point to yes.

There’s no lazier journalist than the one who asks a question that’s already been asked . . . a million times. Stop asking Quentin Tarantino for his take on violence. Google the guy for his answer, instead of wasting his time with prosaic attempts to elevate your image while tarnishing his. And furthermore, it’s always great to sit down with a film’s director and ask, “Are you afraid this film has been trashed more than all your other films?” To be fair, that wasn’t the exact question, but it might as well have been.

Lady Gaga wrote an open letter to Kelly Osbourne about her mean-spirited critiques on Fashion Police, and it nearly made my head explode. I’ll sum up my response in one sentence: If you’re going to parade around the stage in a thong, expect people to speak up when you gain weight. No one comments on Adele’s weight because Adele never wore skimpy outfits on stage. For example, if I wear a clown suit, then I expect people to call me a clown. Read the open letter below.

Dear Kelly,

While I wish you had reached out to me personally, as the head of the Born This Way foundation with my mother Cynthia we would like to respond. Everyday, through my music and public voice I choose to be positive and work towards a kinder and braver world with our community of followers. I encourage them to ignore criticism, stand up to bullies, know their own value and see that we are all the same and no one person is worth more than another. I know I’m perceived as a wild child, but in reality I am woman that deeply cares for humanity. I have empathy for you Kelly, but I feel it culturally important to note that you have chosen a less compassionate path. Your work on E! with the Fashion Police is rooted in criticism, judgment, and rating people’s beauty against one another. “Appearance” is the most used reason for bullying in the world. Your show breeds negativity, and over the years has even become comedic in nature. It glorifies you and Joan Rivers pointing in the camera, laughing, and making jokes about artists and celebrities as if we are zoo animals. What about your body revolution? It used to make me truly sad when I would hear people talk about your weight when you were younger, as I was bullied too. To see you blossoming into a beautiful slender woman who makes fun of others for a living is astounding. Why not help others? Why not defend others who are bullied for their image and share your story? I am pointing this out not to take a crack at your character, as we’ve met before and you’re lovely. However, I urge you to take responsibility and accountability for the example that you are setting for young people. They look up to you because you are famous, and if you treat others that way on TV, many adolescents at home on twitter assume your actions are acceptable: well if she does it, why can’t I? I cannot control my fans, and I discourage them from any negativity and violence, because that is wrong and hurtful — and I do feel baldy that your feelings were hurt. However, we can all do our part in the media to set a standard of respect, compassion, and love. I wish for you to be treated with the kindness and respect that everyone deserves. While some of my fans have learning to do, most of them share the same values as I, and it’s what bonds us together. And that bond is strong.

Sincerely,
Gaga and Cynthia

I saw Cirque De Soleil’s ‘Iris’ shortly before it opened. I remember thinking it was ambitious venture, especially considering the rumored $100 production costs, combined with it’s exclusive use of the Kodak (except for the Oscars, of course). The hope was it would become a Los Angeles staple generate a lot of money for the city. Unfortunately, the plan failed, and I can’t say I’m surprised. When I went to the show it felt as I was getting hit in the face with glitter for over an hour. It’s cinematic theme also suffered, as most of the performances didn’t properly align with the message. It’s sad for the brand itself, considering a number of other show that haven’t stuck. My advice for future endeavors can be summed up in three words: light and shade. Having said all that, I am sad they couldn’t save it. Those performers are some of the most talented folks I’ve ever seen.

Forgive the terrible pun at the title of this post. I’m ashamed of myself. Watch Jon Stewart’s entertaining and eloquent rundown on gun control. It’s worth it.