Anatomy of a Fall has won not one, but two awards at the 33rd Annual Gotham Awards, live from Cipriani Wall Street on Monday night.
The βSNLβ trifecta of Ben Marshall, John Higgins and Martin Herlihy try their hand at cinematography with their first movie, Please Donβt Destroy: The Treasure of Foggy Mountain, now streaming on Peacock.
Upon attending the movie premiere at New Yorkβs SVA Theatre on November 13, 2023, I certainly expected to spend the next hour and a half laughing with an embarrassing chortle that only SNL gives to its most ardent fans. However, Please Donβt Destroy has gone above and beyond, inching towards a hilarity reminiscent of the Three Stooges.
From producing the all-too short comedic features, Please Donβt Destroy has given us a blissful movie doing justice to the kind of humor that only their New York University college student schtick could give. It is safe to say this trio has come a long way from their days in 2017, as theyβve become a sensation amongst the SNL community. In the trusted hands of Judd Apatow and Jimmy Miller, the group journeys alongside Conan OβBrien and Bowen Yang for the most farce treasure hunt to date.
Please Donβt Destroy: The Treasure of Foggy Mountain revives the silliness from childish humorβlightens up the daunting insecurities that come from adulting. As the roommates search for the priceless golden bust of Marie Antoinette, nothing short of bear attacks, cult joining, and accidental nudity heads their way. Step by step, the group proves to be the least qualified people to find the treasure. When our beleaguered trio struggles to jump off a cliff, Ben turns into a human kite in a flying squirrel suit. After that, itβs expected all faith to be lost.
Johnβs refusal of accepting their fateβthat their friendship is falling apartβpairedΒ against the humor from Ben and Martinβs imposter syndrome, equates to a movie premiere with the theater unable to catch their breath. Taking a satirical perspective on classic adventure movies turns the film into a melting pot of extraordinary movie making!
The criticism of film today being made without the overall intention of winning golden statues or becoming the next beautiful tragedy tends to dilute the initial joy of new films coming out. However, amid the cinematography Hunger Games, Please Donβt Destroy: The Treasure of Foggy Mountain serves as a delightful jewel of refreshing comedy.
ItΒ is simply a funny movie, poking fun at a tumultuous time. Youβll laugh, youβll cry, youβll ask yourself, βIs that the kid from Stranger Things?β
Thirty-Five years ago, Cold Chillin Records hosted a series of concerts at New York’s famed Apollo Theater. While the concert was filmed, some of that footage was lost until recently. In celebration of both the 35th anniversary of the Cold Chillin Records Showcase concert at the Apollo Theater (November 20th), and the found footage, the founder of Cold Chillin Records Tyrone ‘Fly Ty” Williams, and some of the label’s artist gathered to reflect on the 1988 concert.
Cold Chillin Records, which included hip hop artist Roxanne Shante, MC Shan, Kool G Rap, the late Grand Daddy I.U., Marley Marl, Big Daddy Kane and the late Biz Markie, was created in 1986, and went defunct in 1998. Shante, MC Shan, Marley Marl, Big Daddy Kane were all in attendance at the Apollo for In Conversation with Cold Chillin Records. Lyricist Loungeβs Ant Marshall facilitated the conversation.
The label’s founder was joined by Video Music Box host Ralph McDaniels and the two discussed bringing the concert tonight. Williams who had a background in radio prior to launching Cold Chillin Records stated he put up about $125,000 for the concert to take place, and discussed how record label executives were initially hesitant about the concert taking place because of fears that there would be violence at the show. McDaniels, who was crucial in the filming, discussed how he had the onstage footage, but the Apollo called him months ago to say they had backstage footage which he didn’t have.
As Williams discussed what a dream it was for his artist to perform on the legendary Apollo Theater stage, one by one Shante, Big Daddy Kane, Marley Marl and others proceeded to the stage to talk about the 1988 show. Williams shared while seated with Shante about how much adversity she faced from peers and the industry as she was making a name for herself in the industry in the 1980s.
Throughout the conversation, clips from the 1988 concert were shown, and after clips of the late Biz Markie were shown, recollections of his humor were shared by guest such as Big Daddy Kane.
The night wrapped up featuring a performance by Shante, Kool G Rap, MC Shan and Big Daddy Kane. Afterward Williams’ was presented with a proclamation from Mayor Eric Adams honoring Cold Chillin Records.
Google recently organized a mingle and jingle event in New York City to showcase some of their latest trends, tips, and tools that can come in handy during the holiday season.
The Knockturnal attended the Los Angeles premiere of Adam Sandlerβs animated comedy βLeo,β held at the Regency Village Theatre in Westwood Village on Sunday, November 19th.
The star-studded carpet included producer, writer, and titular character Adam Sandler, comedian and actor Bill Burr, along with directors Robert Marianetti, Robert Smigel, David Wachtenheim, and many more.
“Leo” is a heartwarming story about an elementary schoolβs 74-year-old pet lizard, weary from the exhausting repetition of substitute teachers, overbearing students, and general childhood tomfoolery. With only one year left in his life, he decides to escape the classroom and embark on a chaotic journey in the outside world, launching a hilarious and absurd musical adventure riddled with Adam Sandlerβs beloved humor.
Watch “Leo” now on Netflix!
Nestled into the candle lit, lower level of Champers Social Club NYC; Novara founder, Reshona Jessamy, hosted an intimate dinner to celebrate World Kindness Day on November 15.
Saved by acts of kindness during her own struggles with depression, and while overcoming a suicide attempt, Jessamy dedicates her skincare line to paying it forward. For this reason, each Novara product is packaged with affirmations.
βWe created thousands of unique messages,β the gracious Jessamy noted before dinner commenced. βThose messages are really meant to spread kindness, and to uplift and inspire women.β
βOften times when we think about kindness, we think that itβs just about being nice, but kindness is more than that,β she continued. βItβs uplifting one another, itβs generosity, itβs compassion and itβs self care. So first, I implore you to be kind to yourself.β
Providing consumers with an opportunity to show themselves kindness, Novara, so far, consists of six key products know as the Waterfall Collection. The collection consists of: the soft cream Purifying Cleanser, an Illuminating Serum, their oil free Hydrating Cream; not to be confused with the Ultra Hydrating Cream, a Resurfacing Serum for texture improvement and lastly, the micro-exfoliating Revitalizing Essence treatment. Beyond gaining the benefits of each product, supporting Novara is an act of advocacy for suicide prevention since 20% of profits are donated to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Linking beauty and mental health as a mother, career woman, wife and entrepreneur, Jessamy continues to walk in her purpose as she uses her platform to show others why itβs important for them to do the same.
December in New York often feels just like the movies, with the magic of glistening lights and a Christmas tree in every corner. Through the ups and downs of major city living, the holidays are an effervescent reminder of how magical life can be. At the heart of the holiday magic, Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park has stood as a capsule for as long as I can remember. Located in Midtown Manhattan, the Park transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, offering an array of festive activities, shopping opportunities, and delightful entertainment for everyone, weather you’re a native New Yorker or visiting for the very first time.
Even before its lively tree lighting, which will be taking place on November 28th this year and will be leading the charge as the first major NYC tree lighting for 2023, the park looks absolutely magical. One of the most iconic parts of the yearly experience is the picturesque ice-skating rink, surrounded by an iconic landscape adorned with sparkling holiday lights and decorations. The rink provides a magical setting for visitors to glide across the ice, creating cherished memories with friends and family against the backdrop of the city’s skyline.
Lacing up my skates and heading over to Bryant Parkβs (free admission!) skating rink has always been a vibrant memory of how we kicked off the holiday season, and I am beyond grateful to have carried that experience into adulthood. On Tuesday, I headed over to the park to see an exclusive preview of what the park has in store for the season. The night commenced with a nostalgic skating experience at the rink. The enchanting ambiance of twinkling lights and joyful decorations enhanced the already joyful feeling of gliding across the ice.
Following the skating session, I headed to The Lodge, an inviting bar and food hall adorned with seasonal cheer. Here, I indulged in some of the year’s signature food and drink offerings, which included loaded croissants, churros, tacos, and so much more.
One of the most exciting features of Bryant Park’s Winter Village is its bustling holiday market. The market features rows of charming kiosks and stalls offering an assortment of unique gifts, crafts, artisanal goods, and delectable holiday treats. Visitors can explore a diverse range of vendors selling handcrafted jewelry, clothing, artwork, ornaments, specialty foods, and much more, making it an ideal destination for holiday shopping. After enjoying some sweet treats at the lodge, I strolled around the shops and was delighted by the hand crafted goods and sweet smell of hot cocoa that exists all around the park.
The atmosphere in the park is lively and spirited, with seasonal music performances, festive events, and activities for all ages. Throughout the holiday season, Bryant Park hosts various themed celebrations in addition to the iconic tree lighting, including caroling sessions and visits from Santa Claus, adding to the joyful ambiance.
We highly reccomend a trip to Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park this holiday season! Hear more about it here!
The holidays are well on their way, and with Thanksgiving just around the corner, the ever long debate of how early is too early to start celebrating the Christmas season is back in action. But here in New York City, arguably one of the most festive places you can be for the season, it seems like everyone is determined to maximize the most wonderful time of the year, and I could not possibly agree more.Β
When it comes to festivities, Cookie Pop and Candy Pop always hits the nail on the head. The goal of the brand was to seamlessly combine two of the best parts about going to the movies, the savory taste of popcorn and the sweetness of candy. βFor almost a century, movie lovers have been combining their candy and cookie brands with popcorn for a delicious sweet and savory combo,β the brand states. βNow, consumers can find this tasty combo in stores all over the world. itβs a treat when watching your favorite movie at home or as a grab and go-to snack throughout the day.β
On Friday, New York City’s exclusive membership club and hotel, The Ned NoMad, played host to a delightful and charitable celebration. The occasion marked the kickoff of the #GivingTuesday SnackGiving campaign by Cookie Pop and Candy Pop, in support of the Ryan Seacrest Foundation, a non-profit organization that aims to inspire and uplift the spirits of hospitalized children and their families through entertainment and educational initiatives. Founded by Seacrest himself, the foundation seeks to utilize multimedia experiences to contribute positively to the healing process of young patients.
The highlight of the event was an engaging Gingerbread House Making Workshop, where attendees had the opportunity to indulge in the holiday spirit while supporting a worthy cause. The popcorn comes in a wide variety of flavors, but has recently unveiled two new ones for the holiday season, a delicious iced gingerbread with a glorious spice, and a tasty peppermint hot chocolate with smooth minty and chocolatey interludes. Guests were encouraged to incorporate the delicious snacks into their gingerbread houses, which gave the finished products a delightful crunch. These limited-time holiday editions are now available in various retailers, including Albertsons, Publix, and more, adding an extra touch of festive cheer to snack times during the holiday season.
Throughout the night, guests enjoyed festival-themed cocktails adorned with holiday popcorn, including a Gingerbread-rimmed Espresso Martini featuring Thomas Ashbourne By NPH, a non-alcoholic Cucumber G&T cocktail by Free AF, garnished with peppermint and cherry, Prosecco topped with edible glitter, and a tantalizing vanilla & chocolate peppermint martini crafted by The Ned NoMadβs mixology team.
In addition to the festive popcorn delights, guests savored delectable catering options from The Ned, ranging from gourmet pigs in a blanket, ricotta crostinis, chicken parm sticks, mini grilled cheese, to gourmet pizza. The culinary offerings perfectly complemented the lively atmosphere, creating an unforgettable evening filled with joy, delicious treats, and the spirit of giving back.
The collaborative efforts of Cookie Pop and Candy Pop in conjunction with The Ned NoMad and the esteemed personalities present truly encapsulated the essence of the holiday season, a time for celebration, generosity, and making a positive impact within the community.
NEW YORK, NYΒ – Complexions, a contemporary ballet company founded in 1994 by Dwight Rhoden and Desmond Richardson, has returned to New York for its 29th season.