redirecting to
https://www.geo.tv/
Tuesday, February 28, 2017
Dil To Pagal hai- a group show starring seven artists-in-residence curated by Mohammad Zeeshan
KARACHI: An outcome of its 4th artist residency, the latest show Opening at Sanat on Tuesday, February 28, 2017, features the works of Ahmed Javed, Arslan Farooqi, Haider Ali Naqvi, Jovita Alvares, Noman Siddiqui, Qadir Jhatial and Razin Rubin created during their four-week retreat at the gallery.
Directed by the acclaimed artist and curator Mohammad Zeeshan the works on display by the seven participating artists collectively explore and celebrate the challenging notions of creative practices away from all that is familiar and comforting.
Open to chance, error and unexpected outcomes, art residencies as an experience can cut both ways says the curator talking about the uncertainty of its results. Often enjoyable but at times a complete disaster, the challenges and rewards of being an artist-in-residence can both be great, elaborates Zeeshan who has chosen to depict the magical yet disruptive and slightly crazy nature of the experience through its title 'Dil To Pagal hai'.
Very different from working in their respective studio and involving a lot of hard work, each artist is creating their own artistic retreat within the gallery while sharing the space with six others, explains the Zeeshan speaking of the challenges. Although not collaborative, but the works produced by the artists during the one-month residency are both site responsive and complementary to each other according to the curator.
This seven artist residency showcase by Sanat gallery is to continue till March 8th.
Oscars paid tribute to Om Puri, Nawazuddin asks why Bollywood never did
Bollywood's emerging talent Nawazuddin Siddiqui on Monday lambasted Indian awards industry over the lack of acknowledgment for veteran late actor Om Puri's talent.
His reaction on Twitter came after Puri was honoured at the 89th Academy Awards ceremony's 'In Memoriam' segment.
Siddiqui in a tweet mentioned: "@TheAcademy #Oscars paid homage 2 late #OmPuri, But in #bollywood award functions nobody converse single word for his contribution... SHAME."
@TheAcademy #Oscars paid homage 2 late #OmPuri, But in #bollywood award functions nobody converse single word for his contribution... SHAME
— Nawazuddin Siddiqui (@Nawazuddin_S) February 27, 2017
The Oscar's 'In Memoriam' segment paid tribute to all the celebrities who passed away recently; Carrie Fisher, Anton Yelchin, Prince, Gene Wilder, Curtis Hanson, Michael Cimino, Patty Duke, Garry Marshall, Mary Tyler Moore, and John Hurt.
Om Puri's family spoke to Indian Express and said: "The only Indian actor to have worked consistently in Hollywood and British cinema for the last 25 years, without a fuss and letting his work speak for itself, today the Academy of Motion Pictures acknowledged his contribution at its 89th Awards. The first and only Indian actor to be acknowledged thus. Thank you Academy. Thank you everyone. We miss you Om. We miss you lots."
Rani Mukerji to make a comeback with 'Hichki'
Rani Mukerji, who last appeared in Mardaani – a film on child trafficking, directed by Pradeep Sarkar – has now confirmed to star in Hichki (hiccup), which will mark her return to Bollywood after she took time off last year to look after her daughter Adira with husband Aditya Chopra.
According to Indian media reports, Hichki revolves around the theme of woman empowerment, wherein a woman strives to make her weakness a positive factor in her life, thereby earning the movie its name.
Hichki is set to be directed by Siddharth Malhotra and produced by Yash Raj Films.
Mukerji said, "I was looking for a script that would challenge and excite me, and Hichki came my way. [It] is built on this positive premise and I decided to take it up," The Times of India reported. She added, "It could be a disability or any condition but if we just look at it as simply a hiccup, we can emerge as a winner."
The iconic actress debuted with the 1997 flick Raja Ki Aayegi Baraat and has starred in various popular films, such as Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham..., Veer Zaara, and Bunty Aur Babli.
Monday, February 27, 2017
Oscars debacle: PwC employee handed wrong envelope, delayed protocol
LOS ANGELES: An accountant for the Academy Awards botched the meticulous procedure for announcing the Oscar for best picture when he handed victory to La La Land before declaring Moonlight the real winner, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) said on Monday.
Accountant Brian Cullinan, who media reports said had been tweeting backstage shortly before, gave presenters Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway the wrong envelope for the movie industry's top award on Sunday, the accounting firm said in a statement.
In a gaffe that stunned the Dolby Theatre crowd in Hollywood and a television audience worldwide, "Cullinan mistakenly handed the backup envelope for Actress in a Leading Role instead of the envelope for Best Picture" to Beatty and Dunaway, PwC said.
"Once the error occurred, protocols for correcting it were not followed through quickly enough by Mr. Cullinan or his partner."
The Wall Street Journal and celebrity website TMZ.com reported that Cullinan had posted a backstage photo of actress Emma Stone on social network Twitter minutes before the mix-up.
(Image courtesy: CNBC)
The photo, from Cullinan's Twitter account, was later deleted but was still viewable on Monday on a cached archive of the page. Cullinan could not immediately be reached for comment.
The mistake was not rectified until the La La Land cast and producers were on stage giving their acceptance speeches. It was left to the musical's producer, Jordan Horowitz, to put things right.
89th Academy Awards - Oscars Awards Show - Producer Jordon Horowitz holds up the card for the Best Picture winner Moonlight. REUTERS/Lucy Nicholson
"Guys, guys, I'm sorry. No. There's a mistake," Horowitz said. "Moonlight, you guys won best picture. This is not a joke."
It took three hours for PricewaterhouseCoopers, which has been overseeing Academy Awards balloting for 83 years, initially to confirm that Beatty and Dunaway received the wrong category envelope.
PwC said it took full responsibility and apologised to the casts and crews of La La Land and Moonlight.
"We sincerely apologise to Warren Beatty, Faye Dunaway, (host) Jimmy Kimmel, (broadcaster) ABC, and the Academy, none of whom was at fault for last night's errors," it said in its statement.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which organises the Oscars, also apologised for the mishap and said it was committed to upholding the integrity of the Oscars.
"We have spent last night and today investigating the circumstances and will determine what actions are appropriate going forward," it said in a statement.
Warren Beatty looks on during presentation for Best Picture. REUTERS/Lucy Nicholson
An embarrassed Beatty carried the envelope to the glitzy Governor's Ball after the show, with the writing clearly saying "actress in a leading role." La La Land star Stone had been awarded that Oscar moments before.
"Except for the end, it was fun," Kimmel said on Monday, referring to the Oscar show he hosted.
"You know it's a strange night when the word 'envelope' is trending on Twitter," he said on his ABC show "Jimmy Kimmel Live."
"NOT ADVANCED MATH"
Brand management experts said it could take years for PricewaterhouseCoopers to recover.
"This is not advanced math. PwC had to get the right name in the right envelope and get it to the right person," said Tim Calkins, a marketing professor at Northwestern University, calling the blunder a "bit of a branding tragedy."
Under a PwC procedure, just two accountants know the names of the 24 winners after their names are placed in two sets of sealed envelopes. The two accountants also memorise the winning names.
Tradition has it that the envelopes are taken separately in two briefcases to the Academy Awards venue. The two accountants - in this case, Cullinan and Martha Ruiz - are driven there separately, in the case of an accident or traffic delays.
The pair then stands off stage at opposite sides and hand envelopes to the respective presenters as each category is announced.
Last week, Cullinan told the Huffington Post the procedure for dealing with the hand-off of an incorrect envelope, other than signalling to a stage manager, was unclear.
"It's so unlikely," Cullinan added.
The error was corrected quickly, although precious minutes passed, said Anthony Sabino, a law professor at St John's University in New York.
"It's not as if we woke up this morning, or if it had been uncovered after the telecast was over. That would have really have been a black eye," he added.
Compared to accounting fraud at other companies in the past, "this incident diminished vastly to a vanishing point," Sabino said.
89th Academy Awards - Oscars Awards Show - Hollywood, California, US - 26/02/17 - Jordan Horowitz and Jimmy Kimmel react as Warren Beatty holds the card for the Best Picture Oscar awarded to 'Moonlight,' after announcing by mistake that 'La La Land' was winner. REUTERS/Lucy Nicholson
The Moonlight filmmakers were gracious about the error.
Director Barry Jenkins told reporters backstage that he received no immediate explanation for the mix-up, though "it made a very special feeling even more special, but not in the way I expected."
Jenkins added, "Please write this down: The folks from La La Land were so gracious."
Trump blames Oscars fail on show´s political tone
LOS ANGELES: President Donald Trump said Monday the chaos that erupted at the end of the Oscars was due to Hollywood obsessing about him rather than concentrating on running a smooth show.
In an Oval Office interview with conservative website Breitbart News, Trump said Oscars organizers had taken their eyes off the ball because they "were focused so hard on politics."
"It was a little sad. It took away from the glamour of the Oscars," he told the site, which was previously managed by Steve Bannon, who now serves as Trump´s chief White House strategist.
"It didn´t feel like a very glamorous evening. I´ve been to the Oscars. There was something very special missing, and then to end that way was sad."
Trump´s comments came after Faye Dunaway and Warren Beatty mistakenly presented the best picture statuette at the climax of the ceremony to "La La Land," when "Moonlight" was the real winner.
The mixup, which made for a chaotic end to ABC´s telecast of the show, has been described as one of the most embarrassing moments in Oscars history.
´Very upset´
With the dust settling on the controversy, the finger of blame has settled on PricewaterhouseCoopers partner Brian Cullinan, who was responsible, along with colleague Martha Ruiz, for ensuring that each awards presenter was handed the correct envelope.
Cullinan pulled the envelope that was supposed to be for best picture winner from the wrong pile, the company said.
"He is very upset about this mistake. And it is also my mistake, our mistake and we all feel very bad," said Tim Ryan, PwC´s US chairman, according to trade magazine Variety.
Trump had been the target of light-hearted jokes and serious derision throughout the night as Oscar-winners railed against his immigration policies.
Host Jimmy Kimmel trolled the Republican via Twitter during the live broadcast and mocked the commander-in-chief´s criticism of screen icon Meryl Streep.
"I want to say thank you to President Trump. Remember last year when it seemed like the Oscars were racist? That´s gone, thanks to him!" Kimmel scoffed.
Trump doesn´t explain in the interview why he thinks the jokes at his expense led to the unrelated error, and it is unclear if he watched the show. Breitbart, one of several news outlets favored by America´s white nationalist extremist fringe, said the comments came in a lengthy interview covering health care, tax cuts, immigration and a variety of other topics.
Breitbart said the mixup came after what it called "hours of Trump-bashing by the Hollywood elites."
"Now, the president has got the last laugh as he hammers Hollywood for its epic fail," it added.
Another Oscars boo-boo: Australian producer shown in ‘In Memoriam’ is alive
During the event's "In Memoriam" segment honouring film industry figures who died over the past year, the show´s producers mistakenly flashed a photo of a woman who is still alive.
Janet Patterson, an Australian costume designer who died in October, was shown not with her picture but with that of the well-known Australian producer Jan Chapman.
"I was devastated by the use of my image in place of my great friend and longtime collaborator Janet Patterson," Chapman told industry publication Variety.
"I had urged her agency to check any photograph which might be used and understand that they were told that the academy had it covered. Janet was a great beauty and four-time Oscar nominee and it is very disappointing that the error was not picked up," she added.
"I am alive and well and an active producer."
Patterson and Chapman worked together on the 1993 film "The Piano," which won three Academy Awards. Chapman is also known for "The Last Days of Chez Nous" (1992)
Former Miss Kurdistan is all excited to attend PSL final
Former title holder of Miss Kurdistan and Miss Kurdistan World, Shene Aziz Ako in a video message, gave a glimpse to her fans of her excitement regarding the Pakistan Super League.
Ako, who moved to Norway several years ago, in her video message sent love to Pakistani cricket fans from Norway.
She said that she is looking forward to attending the PSL final and show support for the game.
Ako said that she will come to Lahore in case the PSL final will be held there.
Game of thrones actor dies at 36
Neil Fingleton, the actor who played Mag Mar Tun Doh Weg, also known as Mag the Mighty, has passed away at the age of 36.
Known as Britain's tallest man, Fingleton reportedly died of a heart attack, according to BBC.
The actor played the role of a wildling Mag the Mighty, the leader of giants who joined the free folk which was united by Mance Rayder. The giant was killed in the Battle of Castle Black.
Photo: courtesy HBO
The enraged giant lifted the massive gate of Castle Black with his bare hands and passes underneath it. He then proceeds to charge towards Grenn, Donnel Hill, Cooper, and three others.
Later, Jon Snow and Samwell Tarly find Mag's body in the tunnel beneath the Wall, along with those of the men he fought, who successfully held the gate at the cost of their own lives
Fingleton also played the role of Fisher King Monster in Dr Who season 9, titled "Before The Flood."
Stars shimmer on Oscar red carpet as diamonds and gold have their day
LOS ANGELES: Hollywood's A-list stars flaunted gold and silver gowns on the Oscar red carpet on Sunday, doused with a generous helping of diamonds, feathers, sequins and symbolic blue ribbons on the world's most cinematic runway.
Emma Stone, nominated for best actress in "La La Land" sparkled in a 1920s inspired gold fringed Givenchy gown, as "Hidden Figures" supporting actress contender Octavia Spencer opted for a silvery Marchesa adorned with a flounce of feathers.
Resembling a real-life - though much more chic - Oscar award, actress Jessica Biel sported a shimmering gold-copper Kaufman Franco beaded gown accessorized with a bold African-inspired necklace from Tiffany's.
"I call it perfection!" piped in husband Justin Timberlake, wearing Tom Ford.
"Lion" supporting actor nominee Dev Patel and television host Ryan Seacrest shared fashion warnings about the dangers of wearing white tuxedos jackets on a red carpet filled with women in red lipstick as Dakota Johnson floated by in a flowing gold Gucci.
Fashion experts agreed the elegance quotient was high, with nods to "old Hollywood glamour" updated for today.
"This is a fantastic year for fashion on the red carpet," said InStyle's fashion news director Eric Wilson. "It's unusual to see this many great gowns, each with something unusual that makes it feel like a new look."
Blue Ribbon Statement
Diamonds adorned the throat of "Hidden Figures" star Taraji P. Henson, poured into a cleavage-baring midnight blue velvet Alberta Ferretti gown with a daring split at the leg.
Velvet ruffles from Oscar de la Renta cascaded down last year's best actress winner Brie Larson in an old Hollywood glamour look with a dramatic decolletage.
"The velvet is big. That will be a trend continuing in 2017 as we've seen on runways," said Glamour fashion news director Florence Kane.
Isabelle Huppert, nominated for best actress for "Elle" showed her typically refined style in a long-sleeved silver Armani Prive gown, while Ruth Negga, also nominated in the same category for "Loving," chose a long-sleeved lacy Valentino in the fashion house's signature vibrant red.
Supporting actress nominee Viola Davis poured herself into an off-the-shoulder red Armani, as Charlize Theron went for a metallic look in Dior.
Negga and other attendees like model Karlie Kloss added a blue ribbon to their gowns and tuxedos to show support for the American Civil Liberties Union, an advocacy group that worked to get President Donald Trump's travel ban blocked in U.S. courts.
Both Stone and Johnson, meanwhile, wore pins in support of Planned Parenthood, a reproductive healthcare group that Trump has pledged to defund because it provides abortions.
Also sporting a blue ribbon was Lin-Manuel Miranda, best known for Broadway's "Hamilton." He had his mother on his arm as his date and noted proudly that he bought his tuxedo in Yonkers, New York, at the same shop where he bought his high school prom tux years ago.
"Chanel Pharrell!" proclaimed singer-songwriter Pharrell Williams, decked out in a fitted Chanel tux accessorized with a dramatic black bead necklace that fell down over the lapel.
Two stuffed pandas, meanwhile were the arm candy of Jackie Chan, stand-ins for the real pandas the action star adopted at a breeding facility in Chengdu, China.
"I am the panda ambassador! They go wherever I go, they take photos with famous people, Stallone, Clinton...," Chan said.
Laal band brings "dama dam mast qalandar" to schoolchildren in Sindh
KARACHI: The glaring sun and scorching heat were unable to dampen the spirits of young students eagerly anticipating to witness possibly their first live rock performance.
Three days after one of the deadliest suicide bombings took place at the shrine of Sufi saint Lal Shahbaz Qalandar, members of the Leftist rock band Laal started their Sindh tour with a message of hope and courage. The band performed in various schools in different neighbourhoods of the city, bringing to students the rich poetry of Shahbaz Qalandar, Bulleh Shah, and Faiz Ahmed Faiz.
Arranged by the Oxford University Press, the free-of-charge performance on Tuesday was aimed at raising awareness about piracy and promoting Pakistan's cultural heritage.
Laal band's melodic tunes were received with tumultuous applause from excited crowds. The enthusiasm was contagious; the excitement was visible from the faces of students and teachers alike.
For a week, Karachi's dreary afternoons were abuzz with the rich poetry of celebrated poets combined with Laal's brilliantly composed tunes. The students and teachers alike couldn't help sway and dance to the tunes as the band sang "dama dam mast qalander" and "utho meri duniya."
Talking to Geo New, lead vocalist Taimur Rehman said: "In light of the recent suicide bombing that took place inside the Shrine of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar, it is imperative that we promote our cultural heritage. This is why we sing the rich poetry of legends such as Baba Farid and Habib Jalib."
In a world gripped by terror and violence, meaningful music infuses hope in young minds. Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Eddie Van Halen once credited music for keeping him out of trouble. A majority of schools in Pakistan fail to focus on extra-curricular activities that are imperative for shaping up balanced personalities.
Music-for-awareness is an avenue unexplored in a society plagued by religious extremism and a weak law and order situation. Efforts like those of Laal band, light a flicker of hope in a world consumed by radicalization and violence.
The Oscars 'Steve Harvey' moment: 'Moonlight' beats 'La La Land'
In a shocking, yet humorous twist, Moonlight won the Best Picture award at the 89th Academy Awards, when Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway somehow pulled a 'Steve Harvey', leading the La La Land team to troop off the stage. Check out the video at the end.
The Oscars 2017 ceremony was held Monday morning at 6:30 AM Pakistan time, and the results were impressive.
(L-R) Best Supporting Actor Mahershala Ali, Best Actress Emma Stone, Best Supporting Actress Viola Davis, and Best Actor Casey Affleck hold their Oscars. Hollywood, California, US. 26/02/17. REUTERS/Lucas Jackson
Denzel Washington, who many were rooting for, for his portrayal of a responsible but strict father in Fences lost to Casey Affleck (Manchester by the Sea) as the Best Actor. Emma Stone was named the Best Actress for her role in La La Land.
For the Actor and Actress in a Supporting Role sections, Mahershala Ali and Viola Davis secured victory for starring in Moonlight and Fences, respectively.
Also read: Are the Oscars still 'so white' in 2017?
La La Land bagged yet another award for Best Direction – by Damien Chazelle.
Zootopia won as the Best Animated Feature Film, while O.J.: Made in America topped in the Best Feature Documentary category.
With regard to Short Subject Documentary group, Netflix's The White Helmets turned out to be the victor, while The Salesman beat its competitors in the Best Foreign Film.
Related: Why The White Helmets documentary team was absent from Oscars?
Notably, non-US national members of both movies' teams were not present at the glitzy event due to US President Donald Trump's immigration ban. They even waited at the airport for three days, according to their statements on Twitter.
Sing and Piper were The Academy's choice for Best Live Action Short Film and Best Animated Short Film, respectively.
Winners of other categories are as follows:
Cinematography: La La Land
Music – Original Score: La La Land
Music – Original Song: 'City Of Stars' (La La Land)
Writing – Adapted Screenplay: Moonlight
Writing – Original Screenplay: Manchester by the Sea
Film Editing: Hacksaw Ridge
Visual Effects: The Jungle Book
Sound Editing: Arrival
Sound Mixing: Hacksaw Ridge
Production Design: La La Land
Make-up and Hairstyling: Suicide Squad
Costume Design: Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them
WATCH: Moment where crew/cast of 'La La Land' realizes a mistake had been made and 'Moonlight' actually won Best Picture. #Oscars pic.twitter.com/WCCopwsJ66
— Good Morning America (@GMA) February 27, 2017
Sunday, February 26, 2017
Film on Syria´s White Helmets wins Oscar
BEIRUT: A film about Syria´s White Helmets -- rescuers who risk their lives to help save civilians caught in the country's devastating war -- took home the Oscar for best documentary short on Sunday.
The Netflix-produced film, called simply "The White Helmets," was directed by Orlando von Einsiedel, and bested another short about the Syrian conflict, "Watani: My Homeland."
But members of the group including the cinematographer who shot much of the footage, Khaled Khatib, were not allowed to enter the United States for the Oscars.
Group members said on Twitter that they had waited for three days at the airport but were not permitted to board a flight.
The US Customs and Border Protection service said only that they did not have valid documents.
The ordeal comes as US President Donald Trump sharply curtails visas for Syrians as well as citizens of a number of other Muslim-majority countries.
Raed Saleh, leader of the rescue group, also was not able to attend but said in a statement that the White Helmets had saved the lives of more than 82,000 civilians.
"I invite anyone here who hears me to work on the side of life, to stop the bloodshed in Syria and around the world," he said in a statement read by the director.
"It´s very easy for these guys to feel forgotten. This war has been going on for six years. If everyone could just stand up and remind them that we all care, (then) this war ends as quickly as possible."
Khatib tweeted: "While we follow the Oscars, the Syrian regime has launched chlorine gas attacks in Harasta, injuring civilians."
The White Helmets emerged in 2013, working to rescue civilians in rebel-held areas during the nearly six-year war.
Before fighting broke out, the volunteers had everyday jobs -- bakers, painters and even students. Since 2013, the group says it has attracted more than 3,000 volunteers.
It is named for the distinctive white hard hats worn by its volunteers and has gained international renown for its daring rescues, often filmed and circulated on social media.
International support
The group's motto, "To save one life is to save all of humanity," is drawn from a verse of the Quran, although the rescuers insist they treat all victims, regardless of religion.
The White Helmets were nominated for the 2016 Nobel Peace Prize and garnered international support for their candidacy, though they ultimately lost out.
Their detractors, mostly supporters of President Bashar al-Assad´s government, accuse them of being tools of their international donors.
But others have hailed the group´s volunteers as "real life heroes."
Syria´s conflict started in 2011 with the brutal repression of anti-government protests and has since spiralled into a complex war, killing more than 310,000 people and displacing over half the country´s population.
The group is funded by several countries including the United States, Britain, Germany, Japan and The Netherlands. It also receives individual donations used to buy equipment, like their white hard hats, which cost about $145 each.
"The documentary took a lot of effort to make and we've been working on it for a long time," Saleh told AFP ahead of the Oscars.
"People who are featured in the film have since died. There's equipment that you see that has been destroyed."
Mahershala Ali becomes first Muslim actor to win Oscar
Mahershala Ali picked up the very first Academy Award on Sunday night, as he was recognised for his stunning performance in 'Moonlight'.
It turns out that Mahershala Ali broke new ground with his Academy Award win, too, as he became the first Muslim actor to ever win an Oscar.
It couldn't have occurred at a better time, too, as it comes just a few weeks after Donald Trump's executive order to ban the inhabitants of seven countries that are prominently made up of Muslims proved hugely divisive and controversial.
Mahershala Ali's speech didn't make reference to his religion or Donald Trump, something that he has previously done during the awards season, when he won the Screen Actors Guild Awards' gong for the Outstanding Performance By A Male Actor in A Supporting Role for his role as Juan in the critically lauded 'Moonlight.'
Instead, he charmed the gathered masses at the Dolby Theatre, and those watching at home, by revealing that his wife had just given birth to their daughter four days before his Oscar win. You can check out his full speech below.
Well deserved, #MahershalaAli! #Oscars pic.twitter.com/ZCFFziGTi4
— RollingOut (@RollingOut) 27 February 2017
'Get Out' scares off competition to top box office
Jordan Peele's socially conscious horror film "Get Out" scared off last week's holdovers, beating expectations to grab the top spot at North American box offices on its debut weekend, an industry group projected on Sunday.
Peele's feature directorial debut -- the actor is half of the comedy duo "Kay and Peele" -- follows a young African-American man (Daniel Kaluuya) who's so nervous about meeting the family of his white girlfriend (Allison Williams), he fails to realise the menace lurking at their mansion.
Generating critical acclaim on top of rave reviews from audiences, the Universal/Blumhouse film -- which cost under $5 million to produce -- raked in $30.5 million, the box office tracker Exhibitor Relations predicted.
Last week's winner, the 3D, computer-generated action and comedy film "The Lego Batman Movie," came in second with $19 million on its third week for a total of $133 million. Featuring the voice of Will Arnett as the caped crusader, the Warner Bros spinoff of the "The Lego Movie" follows Batman as he tries to save Gotham City from being taken over by the Joker, voiced by Zach Galifianakis.
Also in its third week, Lionsgate's "John Wick: Chapter 2" came in third with $9 million in revenue for a three-week total of $74.4 million.
The thriller stars Keanu Reeves as a hitman forced out of retirement in order to repay a debt to a fellow hired killer with whom he has signed a blood oath.
"The Great Wall" took fourth place with $8.7 million following a disappointing debut last week. Universal's lavish action thriller starring Matt Damon -- filmed with a $150 million budget and billed as the first English-language production shot entirely in China -- follows European mercenaries searching for black powder who get caught up defending the Great Wall of China against a group of monsters.
"Fifty Shades Darker," Universal's second installment of the steamy "Fifty Shades" franchise based on the novels of E.L. James, came in fifth with $7.7 million for a total of $103.6 million in three weeks.
Rounding out the top 10 are:
"Fist Fight" ($6.4 million)
"Hidden Figures" ($5.9 million)
"La La Land" ($4.6 million)
"Split" ($4.1 million)
"Lion" ($3.8 million)
Actor Bill Paxton, known for roles in Big Love, Titanic, dies at 61
American actor Bill Paxton, who rose to stardom with roles in Hollywood blockbusters such as "Aliens" and "Titanic," has died at age 61 after complications from surgery, his family said in a statement on Sunday.
Paxton, who appeared in dozens of films over some four decades, had recently starred in the HBO television series, "Big Love," about a polygamous Mormon family, and acted alongside Tom Cruise in the film, "Edge of Tomorrow."
For his role in "Apollo 13," Paxton won a Screen Actors Guild Award for outstanding performance by a cast in a motion picture in 1996.
He was nominated for three Golden Globe Award in the best actor category for his work in "Big Love" and the 1990s miniseries, "A Bright Shining Lie."
It was not immediately known what surgery Paxton, a Fort Worth, Texas, native had undergone.
"It is with heavy hearts we share the news that Bill Paxton has passed away due to complications from surgery," a family representative said in the statement.
"Bill's passion for the arts was felt by all who knew him, and his warmth and tireless energy were undeniable," it said.
Paxton leaves behind his wife, Louise Newberry, and two children, James and Lydia.
London film screening backs Oscar boycott director Farhadi
Thousands of film fans gathered in London's Trafalgar Square Sunday for a screening of "The Salesman" by Iranian director Asghar Farhadi, who is boycotting the Oscars over US President Donald Trump's policies.
Just hours before the Oscars ceremony in Los Angeles, where the film is vying for the Best Foreign Language Film award, the London landmark was transformed into a giant open-air cinema.
"Despite our different religions, nationalities and cultures, we are all citizens of the world. I'm very proud to be a member of this global family. I'm sorry I'm not able to be here with you but I will be there in spirit," Farhadi said in a video message played ahead of the film.
Farhadi refused to attend the Oscars in protest at Trump's executive order banning visitors from seven Muslim-majority countries.
Speaking to AFP in Trafalgar Square, London Mayor Sadiq Khan described the ban as "cruel" and "shameful".
"At a time when people are talking about travel bans, I want to welcome people," he said.
"At a time when people are motivating communities to divide, I want to unite them."
Farhadi announced last month that he would not attend the ceremony even if the US government gave him special permission to travel despite coming from Iran, one of the countries on Trump's controversial list.
The Iranian filmmaker stuck by his decision even after a US court ruled against the travel ban.
An estimated 10,000 spectators attended the screening, which was also the British premiere of the film, according to the mayor's office.
One of the crowd, Amir Alamdara, said the event helped boost the profile of Iranian cinema.
"It galvanises people and it makes people more aware that Iranians have got something to offer to this world," he told AFP.
Tanya Arafeh, a Palestinian, said she enjoyed the sense of unity in the central London square.
"I feel proud and empowered, I love the fact that everyone has come together to support each other and also just to have a nice day in London," she told AFP.
British director Mike Leigh addressed the crowd, saying the screening should be both a protest and a celebration.
"Our protest is of course against President Trump's cynical, divisive and destructive policies, especially this unforgivable travel ban," he said.
The film was followed by a mini concert by The Orchestra of Syrian Musicians, who were joined by former Blur frontman Damon Albarn.
Around 50 film personalities, including Ridley Scott, Kiera Knightley, Terry Gilliam, Glenn Close and Julie Christie, signed a letter asking that the film be screened in front of the US Embassy in London.
Farhadi's "The Salesman" is up against four other nominees in the foreign language category at the Oscars, three of which are European.
The Iranian movie will be competing against the Danish film "Land of Mine", "Toni Erdmann" from Germany and the Swedish "A Man Called Ove". Australia completes the foreign language set with "Tanna".
On Friday, directors of the five nominees issued a statement condemning "the climate of fanaticism and nationalism" in the US.
Shah Rukh says didn’t turn down film opposite Kangana Ranaut
Bollywood mega star Shah Rukh Khan has denied reports of him turning down a role against 'Queen' of controversy Kangana Ranaut in a project by Sanjay Leela Bhansali.
According to Indian media reports, the rumours of him refusing the project surfaced days after Kangana made her controversial statements on working with 'Khans' of Bollywood.
The actress had appeared on 'Coffee with Karan' and said that she does not like working with Khans as she would like to have her role to be equal to that of her male lead.
When SRK was asked about him turning down the projects he asked people not to believe everything they read.
News of Bollywood's king Khan's refusal to work with Kangana started making abuzz right after the Koffee show. Kangana who was in a fierce mood, showed her attitude again when she was asked to pick one of the Khans she wants to work with. The Rangoon actress instantly replied, "None". The actress further added, "I don't want to work with anyone with whom I don't have an equal role". (That was brutal)
The 'King of Bollywood' had earlier revealed that he had received two scripts from Bhansali and that he hasn't given a green signal to either one of them.
Are the Oscars still 'so white' in 2017 or will the Academy prove otherwise?
Most people are familiar with the #OscarsSoWhite hashtag on Twitter that has been popular for two years now and still is.
Notably, nominations for the Oscars' 2017 iteration are more diverse and inclusive, it still remains to be seen whether the Academy lets go of its racial bias and impartially hands out the awards or will it carry on its legacy of being a white-dominated institution?
Will La La Land still prance around?
Almost everyone has heard of La La Land and how it has dominated the movie scene and awards over the past five months. Once again, it is expected to win big at this year's Oscars, which are scheduled to start on Sunday, at 6:30 AM Pakistan time.
Contenders in the same category – 'Best Film' – include Moonlight, Hidden Figures, Fences, and Lion, all of which focus on the lives and struggles of non-white people.
Moonlight tells the story of a homosexual young man in his early life, facing opposition and hatred alongside his mother's indifference and addiction to drugs. On the other hand, Hidden Figures is a story revolving around three black females at NASA and how they strive in a white, men-dominated space.
Fences, a flick showing the 60s era wherein a father's strict but responsible attitude towards his son fails to bloom a healthy relationship, features Denzel Washington, whereas Lion is a tale of an adopted teenager – played by Dev Patel – who goes in search for his Indian birth parents.
The possibility of three out of four wins for blacks artists?
With regard to the 'Actor in a Leading Role' category, Casey Affleck, Andrew Garfield, Ryan Gosling, Viggo Mortensen, and Denzel Washington are the competitors for the gold statue.
Of the five nominees, only one is a black actor – one who has been chosen for his acting in Fences, which is severely overshadowed by other big names. Washington plays the role of a stressed father who is cornered by his accountability, stagnant position in life, and racial segregation. The last Oscar he won was for Training Day in 2002.
On the flip side, Isabelle Huppert, Ruth Negga, Natalie Portman, Emma Stone, and Meryl Streep have been listed as the five choices for 'Actress in a Leading Role'. Once again, the Academy has only selected one black artist – Ruth Negga for Loving – in its nominations.
Negga stars as the wife of a white man, with whom she is in a very loving relationship. They get married after a lot of efforts, and their battle for the basic human right to live as a couple gets attention throughout the country.
Mahershala Ali and Dev Patel are the two non-white actors in the 'Supporting Role' listing, with remaining three being Jeff Bridges, Lucas Hedges, and Michael Shannon. Ali recently won over the audience in Netflix's Luke Cage with his portrayal of Cornell 'Cottonmouth' Stokes, whereas Patel is famous for his acting in numerous projects, such as Slumdog Millionaire, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, and Chappie.
The only section where people of colour are more in number than white artists is 'Supporting Actress', in which Viola Davis, Naomie Harris, and Octavia Spencer have been selected. Nicole Kidman and Michelle Williams sum up the nominations in this category.
In Fences, Davis is seen as the wife of Washington's character, while Spencer is one of the three mathematicians in Hidden Figures. Harris, one of the British nominees this year, is the abusive mother in Moonlight.
If the unlikely happens, which is that the people of colour win in at least three categories, it will mark the first time in the history of Oscars that they will be in majority in the whole of acting space (Best Actor and Actress and Best Supporting Actor and Actress).
The faces behind Oscar hopefuls
With no other African-American having won the 'Best Director' award in the Oscars' history ever, Barry Jenkins for Moonlight is set to break that record if he wins.
Jenkins' four competitors are Damian Chazelle (La La Land), Mel Gibson (Hacksaw Ridge), Denis Villeneuve (Arrival), and Kenneth Lonergan (Manchester by the Sea). The director has exhibited exemplary work in his latest movie, and we expect him to release more films in future.
How high can La La Land really go?
To date, the biggest number of Oscars bagged by a single film is 11, a record currently held by Titanic, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, and Ben-Hur.
With 14 nominations already secured, La La Land can go to a maximum of 13, since two of its songs have been chosen for the 'Best Song' group.
View the entire list of nominations here.
Saturday, February 25, 2017
Bridal fashion expo graces Karachi for the first time
KARACHI: Prepared to be dazzled by the wedding, casual dresses and accessories, complete with the cufflinks, bowties to heaviest bridal gowns, put on display at the Dolce Vita Exhibit Bridal and Fashion Expo.
The day-long event, which was held at Marriott Hotel on Saturday, has previously been held in three of Pakistan's major cities - Lahore, Islamabad, and Faisalabad - which is why the organisers put in additional effort to bring it to the nation's biggest city, Karachi.
"I think we were ready [to bring it to Karachi], and that's why we went for it," remarked the organisers.
Geo.tv met with the organisers Sania Hasnain Ali and Alyzeh Rahim Shirazi during the expo to talk about wedding festivities and the associated style.
Ali is the creative head of Boho's clothing line, while Shirazi is the face behind Arsazi.
A common belief among Pakistanis is that the wedding season peaks in the winter months, especially December and January. However, Shirazi disagrees with that notion, adding "it's all year round now."
Celebrations leading up and pertaining to a wedding have also grown in number, said Shirazi noting that there are seven or eight functions on average. This, she mentioned, is a good boost for the industry.
Ali added, "Everyone needs clothes and jewellery. [Plus, people need dresses to] wear on dinners, lunches, on a daily basis."
A majority of the items on display - comprising dresses, shoes, dupattas or capes - sported tons of intricate embroidery. Some were crafted by hand, while others had paintings, calligraphy, and digital prints.
It is interesting to note that "people are adopting everything," stated Shirazi listing traditional, modern, and funky wear as examples. She said, "These days, it's not [about] following one particular trend."
The present time is one where many are open to experiments on their big days. In addition, it "doesn't look like people are going to move back [from the new styles they adopt]," Shirazi believes.
Considering how the fashion space is "growing by billions every year," coupled with the fact that there is a lot of popularity and exhibition on social media, numerous people opt for counterfeit products, which Shirazi thinks is unavoidable.
She said that the industry is "not making losses, [so a designer should rather] take it as flattery" if someone copied their designs. Sania agrees.
"If someone wants to look perfect on their wedding, they'll go for something that's stitched well."
Brands present at the event included Hassan Sheheryar Yasin (HSY), Sania Maskatiya, Tena Durrani, Amrapali Jaipur, Élan, Karma, and Blood Orange.
Not a nice man at all: Monty Python’s Michael Palin attends LLF
LAHORE: "I am very pleased to come here," said Michael Palin, British comedian known for his association with comedy troupe Monty Python.
Palin is one of the participants of Lahore Literary Festival (LLF), which is currently underway at Faletti's Hotel, Egerton Road.
"I visited Lahore about 15 years ago and I accepted the invitation from Razi [founder and CEO of LLF] because I really love the city and remember it really well," said the 73-year-old while speaking to Geo News. "The feel of the streets here is so different from home. There is so much going on here."
"Nothing was going to stop me from coming [to the festival]," he remarked adding, "[I will] never be put off by few people who have started creating trouble." However, he said that his schedule for the last three years has kept him very busy and he was unable to visit the city before.
"[Lahore is] still a great city and I am very happy to be here," he added.
Speaking about the LLF, he said "It [provides a platform] to exchange ideas and meet people you don't normally meet and for people to learn about you and you to learn about others."
"I don't know much about the festival as it's my first day here," he remarked, adding "being here now I have met some really wonderful people. Writers from all over the world have come here. Meeting local writers and local people has been a great process."
The festival has been restricted to one-day only because of the security situation of the city. It's a great pity that the festival was not spread over three days, Palin remarked. "May this festival continue for as long as possible and people outside Lahore find it valuable to come here."
Palin, who arrived on Friday, said that he has been around the city a little. "I saw the newly restored hamam and it's so beautifully done." He was speaking about the 'Shahi Hamam (Royal Bath)' present in the Walled City of Lahore. "[I also visited] the old city and some of the mosques."
He spoke at a session, titled 'Not a Nice Man at All', the phrase has been taken from his description of himself on his website which reads "Michael Palin is not a nice man at all. He's an ill-tempered lout who sits in bed all day eating fudge."
Monty Python is one of the most famous comedy troupes who made mark with their sketch comedy series, Monty Python's Flying Circus in 1969. Later, the group produced classic comedy features including Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975), Monty Python's Life of Brian (1979) and Monty Python Live at the Hollywood Bowl (1982) among others.
Omar Shahid’s novel 'The Spinners Tale' being translated into Italian
After multiple awards, Omar Shahid Hamid a Senior Superintendent of Police heading the Intelligence unit of the Sindh Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) still maintains that he is only a police officer who is addicted to writing.
The day he launched his third book The Party Worker, his second book The Spinners Tale was also recognized. It was awarded the 'Italy reads Pakistan' prize by Metropoli d'Asia at the recent Karachi Literature Festival and is currently being translated into Italian.
First published in 2015, with its main characters – Ausi, inspired by Omar Saeed Sheikh, and Omar Abbasi modeled after Sanaullah Abbasi a well-known police officer in Sindh – can be used as an unofficial guide to understand how young Pakistanis turn to extremism.
We caught up Omar and had a chat about his book, the prize and whether his novels will ever be translated into Urdu.
The highlight of our chat was Omar reading a passage from The Spinner's Tale; a passage that shows an Ausi before he becomes the most feared terrorist in the country.
Aisha Takia gives subtle message to haters in the most positive way
Aisha Takia who was making rounds on the internet over her possible plastic surgery has a message for the haters.
Aisha faced a series of backlash from the Twitteratis after she made an appearance on her Instagram in a different look. While some people called her insecure, some went even beyond saying she resembles to Kim K.
Ayesha Takia
— Satire_Guru (@Satire_Guru) February 24, 2017
Pic 1: During UPA
Pic 2: During NDA
Kya yahi achche din hain? pic.twitter.com/1AuJDm67mX
Breaking News : Arvind kejriwal blames PM Modi for unsuccessful plastic surgery of Ayesha Takia , Says Demonitisation hit her face !! pic.twitter.com/cc972llBD3
— Raushan Raj (@AskRaushan) February 24, 2017
Aisha Takia after facing the mean criticism shared a message on her Instagram account to shut down haters in the most positive way possible.
Aisha shared a motivational quote from famous American burlesque dancer and model Dita Von Teese which reads, "You can be the ripest, juiciest peach in the world and there's still going to be someone in the world who hates peaches."
Aisha shared several pictures on her Instagram in the course of 24 hours which shows she is not going to take hatred from anyone.
Aisha shared another message with a picture which said, "#StopSelfieShaming All you girls and guys who love yourself enough to take your own picture and feel good about it should be proud. Don't let anyone tell you to dim your confidence and self love. We live in a world of judgements and bullying, so we need to rise above that and just be who we are and be proud of it. love yourself."
Friday, February 24, 2017
Triad of artists showcase thier work at Chawkandi Art
KARACHI: Delightfully diverse, distinct and different in their approaches, the latest showcase by Chawkandi Art invites the viewer to enjoy the works of three important presences of art scene today.
Contemporaries of sorts and eminent in their own right as artists, Naz Ikramullah, Siddiqua Bilgrami and Wahab Jaffer —each with a career spanning decades and countries is touted and appreciated for their respective style.
Included in the group show is the series of acrylic paintings and collagraphs in semi-abstract form by Siddiqua Bilgrami depicting human emotion through her figurative work. Her portraiture of women in distress gives a detailed account of suffering in war.
Learning from the masters like Ahmed Parvez, Ali Imam, Bashir Mirza and Gulgee, Wahab Jaffer, on the other hand, continues his exploration of female form through the bold, adventurous and intense play of colour. Maintaining a strong identity Jaffer remains inspired by his mentor Ahmed Parvez and speaks of him fondly while talking about the various elements of his work currently on display. Apart from his occupation with a woman's face and its many moods, the fascination of colour in all its richness continues to be the hallmark of his work, explains Jaffer, who is also well known for his passion to collect and preserve art.
Internationally known for her prints and collages, visual artist Naz Ikramullah highlighting the new elements of her work mentions her experimentation with Oil bars. Discovering the medium for the first time and pleased with the result, Ikramullah talks about the texture and greater depth it has given to three of her paintings on display. A detailed yet distorted landscape of memories, figures, houses and more, her latest body of work also includes watercolour paintings, acrylic on canvas and photos shop collages. A specialised and seasoned printmaker, she currently teaches painting and printmaking at the Ottawa School of Art, Canada
Exhibiting extensively at home and abroad, all three artists participating in the group show are expats and currently reside in Canada.
Plastic surgery debacle: Is Ayesha Takia new Kim K of Bollywood?
Ayesha Takia is an actress known and adored for her innocent, baby looks, but it seems that the latest appearance of the Dor actress has left fans aghast.
The 30-year-old no longer has the vestiges of her former beauty, with puffed up, uplifted cheeks, horribly fuller lips, and stretched eyelids, Takia made an appearance at an event recently.
The newest look gave social media users a much-not-needed excuse to bash actresses, including her, who have allegedly gone under the knife. Her latest looks seemingly have likened her a great deal to Hollywood star Kim Kardashian.
2 min Silence For All Those Who Has Crush On #AyeshaTakia pic.twitter.com/soHcI9RBeD
— Disha Rajput (@dOOrDisha) February 24, 2017
Ayesha Takia:
— Sir Ravindra Jadeja (@SirJadeja) February 24, 2017
Pic 1: Expectation
Pic 2: Reality#AyeshaTakia pic.twitter.com/8dl4obW7XA
When your husband is a rich businessman and you don't know how to spend the money. *Shopping mistakes*#AyeshaTakia pic.twitter.com/TICSGaR2EQ
— रोॐaa (@Dreamyladki) February 24, 2017
Takia made her debut in 2004 with Taarzan, later on, she also starred opposite Salman Khan in Wanted.
Earlier, Bollywood superstar Anushka Sharma was drubbed by critics when she decided to get a lip job which blended with her Bombay Velvet character. The actress then gave an interview in which she stated how the process was necessary for her character of a Jazz musician in the film.
"I have nothing to hide. So when I spoke about my lip job, a lot of people called me brave for coming out. But I did what I had to (for my role in Bombay Velvet). I'm not going to lie and say I didn't; I had to take ownership. I wanted fans to know that I'm human and not perfect," she said.
Anushka Sharma's surgical procedure had not gone down well with fans and critics alike, who were of the view that it had gone quite bad. Harsh tweets and insulting memes popped up over the internet, making the Bollywood actress a target of ridicule and abuse.
Karachi and fashion: Dolce Vita Exhibit Bridal & Fashion Expo starts Feb 25
KARACHI: Still high on fashion weeks, Karachi is all set to host The Dolce Vita Exhibit Bridal & Fashion Expo, on February 25 at the Poolside Marquee Marriott hotel Karachi.
Featuring more than 50 designer brands, the event—a brainchild of Alyzeh Rahim Shirazi and Sania Hasnain Ali—provides fashionistas a platform to check out the newest trends in prêt, bridal attire and menswear.
Major fashion designers set to appear at the fashion festival include Hassan Sheheryar Yasin (HSY), Sania Maskatiya, Tena Durrani, and Amrapali Jaipur, among others. Brands showcasing their collection include Élan, Karma, and Blood Orange.
Shirazi, also the co-founder of The Exhibit, said that she is very excited to be organising the fashion show. "[We are] really looking forward to integrating our concept with the Karachi market," she said, adding that the event is being in Karachi for the very first time.
Ali, who also serves as the creative head of Boho's clothing line, said: "Top designers in fashion, interior, and jewellery will be showcasing the latest fashion trends contributing immensely to Pakistan's style and fashion industry."
Geo.tv will be covering the fashion and bridal expo, with news and reviews of your favourite designers. Stay tuned for updates!
Matt Reeves to direct ‘The Batman’ after Affleck’s refusal
Warner Bros. made an official statement that Matt Reeves will direct and produce the next standalone Batman film.
The news was also shared by Ben Affleck, who portrays the central character in the film, and was earlier pegged to direct the movie.
Welcome to the Batcave, @MattReevesLA pic.twitter.com/JsB4sGGux2
— Ben Affleck (@BenAffleck) February 24, 2017
Ha! Thanks so much, man. So excited. https://t.co/h5hTJ2lwj3
— Matt Reeves (@mattreevesLA) February 24, 2017
Matt Reeves had earlier directed Cloverfield, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes etc. Warner Bros. offered the director two weeks after Ben Affleck had turned down the offer to direct.
"I have loved the Batman story since I was a child," Reeves was quoted as saying. "He is such an iconic and compelling character, and one that resonates with me deeply. I am incredibly honored and excited to be working with Warner Bros. to bring an epic and emotional new take on the Caped Crusader to the big screen," he said.
Nike's latest inclusive ad featuring Muslim women trumps Donald's hate
An online commercial released by Nike this week shows Arab women fencing, boxing, and spinning on ice-skates in an attempt to smash stereotypes about women leading home-bound lives.
It begins with a woman peering out of her doorway, and adjusting her veil before going for a run in the street, while a female voice narrates: "What will they say about you? Maybe they'll say you exceeded all expectations."
Within 48 hours the video was shared 75,000 times on Twitter and viewed almost 400,000 times on YouTube.
When an ad touches on the insecurities of women in a society, digs deeper & becomes an empowerment tool rather than just a product #JustDoIt https://t.co/3Qh79aPigd
— sara al-zawqari (@Sara_ICRC) February 18, 2017
Sara al-Zawqari, a spokeswoman for the International Red Cross in Iraq, on Twitter lauded the sports gear company's effort, adding that such moves become "an empowerment tool rather than just a product."
Filmed in the older, rundown suburbs of the glitzy Gulf Arab emirate of Dubai, the ad reflects the struggles faced not only by women across the region but also by some of its own stars.
Amal Mourad, a 24-year old Emirati parkour athlete shown leaping across rooftops, told Reuters her father was reluctant at first to let her train in a gym where men were present.
"Convincing my father was the toughest part ... if you want something bad enough you stick to it, and you can get it done," said Mourad, who now teaches classes in a mixed gender gym.
Twitter didn't stay back in appreciating Nike's commercial.
Fascinating Nike ad! A great trigger for in-class discussions about women, sport & representation and much more! https://t.co/TlgD75QWht
— Holly Thorpe (@hollythorpe_nz) February 18, 2017
Sports sociologist Holly Thorpe commented that it will lead to more discussions on women empowerment.
This Nike ad featuring Arab women competing in sport is great. https://t.co/Wo8V9HFMwv
— Jason Bordoff (@JasonBordoff) February 18, 2017
Jason Bordoff, who has served as an energy advisor to former President Obama, termed it "great."
A message from Nike empowering women and encouraging them to break stereotypes. Finally, an ad for our region. https://t.co/31Py6ok22l
— Fahad Albutairi (@Fahad) February 18, 2017
A stand-up comedian lauded the fact that Muslims were "finally [in] an ad for our region."
A really cool ad. –– Nike's Celebration of Middle Eastern Athletes is Bold and Brave https://t.co/DWJyP5YThK
— سلطان سعود القاسمي (@SultanAlQassemi) February 18, 2017
Even Arab men are voicing their support.
However, criticism, as always, seeped in for the latest commercial. One hater shamed Nike, saying that it doesn't properly represent Arab women, as they "do not wear a hijab and go running in the streets." Another just labelled it as "an utter fail."
There were some who raised concerns about the inclusivity of the ad, asserting that non-Arab Muslim women were not featured in it. Others brought accusations of employing child labour against Nike back to argue that the company is not ethical.
The ad's message may also tap into an emerging new market for Arab women chafing at hidebound social norms and an entertainment industry that often relegates them to docile roles.
"We need to start driving the conversation away from Arab women being subjects of segregation, or oppression ... and more towards them being enablers, achievers and go-getters," said Dubai advertising executive Nadim Ghassan.
(Initial reporting by Reuters)
Meet Iraq’s sensational male fashionistas
When you think of Iraq, fashion is the last thing you can think of, but wait till you see these sensational male fashionistas of Iraq.
Yes, You read it right. Iraq can have fashionistas and with a class beyond your imagination.
Meet Mr Erbil who is the latest male fashion sensation on the internet.
Mr Erbil which is actually a group of 40 young well-groomed Iraqis has also set up a club which is a far cry from the fighting in large areas of northern Iraq.
.JPG)
With their waxed moustaches, dapper clothes and macho style, the members of the Mr Erbil gentleman's club actually look like fashionable New Yorkers who are ready to exhibit their style in Paris fashion week. (We would love to see them there)
Albeit the calm of the country torn apart by war since the US-led invasion of 2003, Mr. Erbil managed to set up their club last year so that young people can avail the opportunities of style they have been craving since long.
One of the gentlemen said, "When we started we were in a bad situation, economic crisis and then an expected war against Daesh." He further added, "There was no business activity so we started with the idea to gather and make something different and unique and change the look of the people and the way that they are thinking.
The Mr Erbil club also aims to support local tailors and craftsmen who help make their outfits.
Mr Erbil is also on Instagram where they post results with 60,000 followers.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)