Author: Kristin

Hey there! I'm Kristin. I typically spend my time perfecting the art of sarcasm, binge-watching & concert-going. I love reading, writing, music & pop culture. You can find a little bit of everything here on my blog. XOXO
TV

CHEF AARÓN SÁNCHEZ TO JOIN JUDGES’ PANEL OF “MASTERCHEF” SEASON EIGHT, PREMIERING SUMMER 2017 ON FOX

by KristinLeave a Comment on CHEF AARÓN SÁNCHEZ TO JOIN JUDGES’ PANEL OF “MASTERCHEF” SEASON EIGHT, PREMIERING SUMMER 2017 ON FOX

CHEF AARÓN SÁNCHEZ
TO JOIN JUDGES’ PANEL OF “MASTERCHEF” SEASON EIGHT,
PREMIERING SUMMER 2017 ON FOX

1Celebrated chef and restaurateur Aarón Sánchez will join Chefs Gordon Ramsay and Christina Tosi as the third judge throughout Season Eight of the hit culinary competition series MASTERCHEF, premiering Summer 2017.

A James Beard Award-winning chef, Sánchez is chef/owner of Mexican restaurant Johnny Sánchez, with locations in New Orleans and Baltimore. He co-starred on “Chopped” and “Chopped Junior,” and is the author of two cookbooks – “Simple Food, Big Flavor: Unforgettable Mexican-Inspired Recipes from My Kitchen to Yours” and “La Comida del Barrio.” An active philanthropist, Sánchez launched his own charity, the Aarón Sánchez Scholarship Fund, empowering aspiring chefs from the Latin community to attend culinary school. An avid tattoo lover, he also is a partner in the world-famous ink shop “Daredevil Tattoo” in New York City.

Sánchez was a guest judge on Season Seven of MASTERCHEF and also will be featured in upcoming episodes of MASTERCHEF JUNIOR Season Five, airing Thursdays (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX.

MASTERCHEF is produced by Endemol Shine North America and One Potato Two Potato, and is based on a format created by Franc Roddam and Endemol Shine. Elisabeth Murdoch, Eden Gaha, Michael Brooks, Robin Ashbrook, Gordon Ramsay, Adeline Ramage Rooney, Patricia Llewellyn and Ben Adler serve as executive producers. “Like” MASTERCHEF on Facebook at facebook.com/MasterChef. Follow the series on Twitter @MASTERCHEFonFOX and join the discussion at #masterchef. Follow the judges on Twitter: Gordon Ramsay – @gordonramsay; Christina Tosi – @christinatosi; AarónSánchez – @Chef_Aaron.

Giveaway, Movies

Enter to Win! #GETOUT – Prize Pack #Giveaway

by KristinLeave a Comment on Enter to Win! #GETOUT – Prize Pack #Giveaway

getoutIn Universal Pictures’ Get Out, a speculative thriller from Blumhouse (producers of The Visit, Insidious series and The Gift) and the mind of Jordan Peele, when a young African-American man visits his white girlfriend’s family estate, he becomes ensnared in a more sinister real reason for the invitation.

Now that Chris (Daniel Kaluuya, Sicario) and his girlfriend, Rose (Allison Williams, Girls), have reached the meet-the-parents milestone of dating, she invites him for a weekend getaway upstate with Missy (Catherine Keener, Captain Phillips) and Dean (Bradley Whitford, The Cabin in the Woods).

At first, Chris reads the family’s overly accommodating behavior as nervous attempts to deal with their daughter’s interracial relationship, but as the weekend progresses, a series of increasingly disturbing discoveries lead him to a truth that he could have never imagined.

Equal parts gripping thriller and provocative commentary, Get Out is written and directed by Peele (Key and Peele) and produced by Blumhouse’s Jason Blum, as well as Sean McKittrick (Donnie Darko, The Box), Peele and Edward H. Hamm Jr. (The Box, Bad Words).  The film also stars Caleb Landry Jones (X-Men series), Milton “Lil Rel” Howery (The Carmichael Show), Betty Gabriel (The Purge: Election Year), Marcus Henderson (Pete’s Dragon) and Keith Stanfield (Straight Outta Compton).

 – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

Here’s what you have to do to enter the giveaway…answer the following question below…

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF THE GET OUT TRAILER, AND WHY?

Send your ANSWER(S), FIRST & LAST NAME and FULL MAILING ADDRESS to accordingtokristin@gmail.com

In the subject line – GET OUT Prize Pack Giveaway

– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

This promotion will end February 24 at 10:00 AM (eastern time). Only one entry per person. No purchase necessary. U.S. residents are eligible to enter. Winners will be contacted via email. AccordingtoKristin.com and other promotional partners are not responsible for lost, stolen, or misdirected mail.

Genre:  Suspense Thriller
Cast:  Daniel Kaluuya, Allison Williams, Bradley Whitford, Caleb Landry Jones and Catherine Keener
Written and Directed by:  Jordan Peele
Produced by:  Sean McKittrick, Jason Blum, Jordan Peele, Edward H. Hamm Jr.
Executive Producers:  Raymond Mansfield, Couper Samuelson, Shaun Redick, Jeanette Volturno

TV

COMCAST TO LAUNCH “XFINITY STREAM” APP ON FEBRUARY 28 TO ALL XFINITY TV SUBSCRIBERS

by Kristin1 Comment on COMCAST TO LAUNCH “XFINITY STREAM” APP ON FEBRUARY 28 TO ALL XFINITY TV SUBSCRIBERS

xfinity-tv-share

In Home: Watch Entire TV Line-Up on Phones, Tablets & Laptops;

On-the-Go: 200+ Live Channels, Remote DVR Access and 40,000 On Demand Titles

Comcast announced that it will launch “Xfinity Stream,” an app available to all Xfinity TV users at no additional cost and will allow them towatch their entire TV line-up on phones, tablets and laptops in the home, and when they’re on-the-go, to tune-in to more than 200 live channels, access and program their DVR and watch 40,000 on demand titles.

“We’re focused on creating the best entertainment experiences across platforms and continuing to give Xfinity TV customers more choice in how, when and where they access their content,” said Matt Strauss, Executive Vice President and General Manager, Video and Entertainment Services at Comcast Cable. “With the Xfinity Stream app, we are giving customers access to the best content in and out of the home with a growing list of advanced features and capabilities that make the mobile experience nearly identical to the cable experience they enjoy at home.”

The Xfinity Stream app, the successor to the Xfinity TV app, includes the ability to switch to a Spanish guide, favorite channel filtering, music channels and Common Sense Media reviews and ratings, offering users an X1-like experience for customers’ phones, tablets and laptops in and out of the home.

  • Live TV and Xfinity On Demand: In addition to becoming an additional screen in the home for Xfinity TV cable customers to access live and on demand programming, Xfinity Stream also gives them access to more than 200 live channels over the Internet outside the home, including sports networks such as ESPN, Fox Sports and NBC Sports; news networks such as Fox News, MSNBC, CNN and BBC World News; kids networks like Nick Jr., Disney Channel and Sprout; 50 Music Choice channels, as well as a host of other top cable and premium networks. The app also offers more than 40,000 on demand movies and TV shows to stream on the go, as well as thousands of download choices for offline viewing.
  • DVR Recordings On the Go:Xfinity TV customers can take their entire DVR collection with them to stream on the go, or even download to watch while offline. They can also use the app to set recordings remotely.
  • First Screen Experiences on Devices: TheXfinity Stream app will bring an X1-like experience to customers with new and enhanced features like the ability to search content by categories such as audience or critics score, stream 50+ Music Choice channels in-the-home and on-the-go, access Common Sense Media ratings and reviews and customize their parental controls per device.
  • Spanish Guide and Accessibility Enhancements:Comcast’s bicultural customers will have the option to navigate the app in their language of choice – Spanish or English – as well as enable English programming that offers a secondary audio feed in Spanish. Those customers with vision impairments can also enable video description – a narration track included between the natural pauses in dialogue that describes the visual elements – on select movies and TV shows.

 

Customers will be able to download the Xfinity Stream app for iOS and Android devices on February 28. Customers who have already installed the latest version of the Xfinity TV app on their devices will see it transition to the Stream app through an app update on February 28. For more information on the Xfinity Stream app, please visit www.xfinity.com/stream.

Movies

GET OUT in Theaters February 24 | Make Your Own Meme

by KristinLeave a Comment on GET OUT in Theaters February 24 | Make Your Own Meme

 GET OUT – In Theaters Everywhere February 24

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In Universal Pictures’ Get Out, a speculative thriller from Blumhouse (producers of The Visit, Insidious series and The Gift) and the mind of Jordan Peele, when a young African-American man visits his white girlfriend’s family estate, he becomes ensnared in a more sinister real reason for the invitation.

Now that Chris (Daniel Kaluuya, Sicario) and his girlfriend, Rose (Allison Williams, Girls), have reached the meet-the-parents milestone of dating, she invites him for a weekend getaway upstate with Missy (Catherine Keener, Captain Phillips) and Dean (Bradley Whitford, The Cabin in the Woods).

At first, Chris reads the family’s overly accommodating behavior as nervous attempts to deal with their daughter’s interracial relationship, but as the weekend progresses, a series of increasingly disturbing discoveries lead him to a truth that he could have never imagined.

Equal parts gripping thriller and provocative commentary, Get Out is written and directed by Peele (Key and Peele) and produced by Blumhouse’s Jason Blum, as well as Sean McKittrick (Donnie Darko, Bad Words), Edward H. Hamm Jr. (Bad Words) and Peele. The film also stars Caleb Landry Jones (X-Men series), Stephen Root (No Country for Old Men), Milton “Lil Rel” Howery (The Carmichael Show), Betty Gabriel (The Purge: Election Year), Marcus Henderson (Pete’s Dragon) and Lakeith Stanfield (Straight Outta Compton).

Genre: Suspense Thriller
Cast: Daniel Kaluuya, Allison Williams, Bradley Whitford, Caleb Landry Jones, Stephen Root, Lakeith Stanfield and Catherine Keener
Written and Directed by: Jordan Peele
Produced by: Sean McKittrick, Jason Blum, Edward H. Hamm Jr., Jordan Peele
Executive Producers: Raymond Mansfield, Couper Samuelson, Shaun Redick, Jeanette Volturno

getout

TV

COMCAST CELEBRATES BLACK HISTORY, INTRODUCES NEW PERMANENT COLLECTION “BLACK HISTORY ALWAYS ON”

by KristinLeave a Comment on COMCAST CELEBRATES BLACK HISTORY, INTRODUCES NEW PERMANENT COLLECTION “BLACK HISTORY ALWAYS ON”

 

COMCAST CELEBRATES BLACK HISTORY, INTRODUCES NEW PERMANENT COLLECTION

“BLACK HISTORY ALWAYS ON”

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With the intent of offering content that celebrates Black History year-round, Comcast launched a new permanent collection in the ‘Black Film & TV’ destination of Xfinity on Demand called “Black History Always On”.

This collection includes more than 100 titles of content including historical documentaries, biographical films, Comcast’s original Voices of the Civil Rights Movement profiles, specials from networks like Smithsonian Channel and more. It will serve as the permanent place on the Xfinity on Demand platform to learn about the achievements of African-American people year round.

In fact, a recent study by Nielsen DBS showed that over 60% of black millennials agree that it feels really good to see stars in media who share their ethnic background. That’s one of the reasons that this month the Black Film & TV destination includes a section called ‘Black Women Behind the Scenes,’ which puts a spotlight on women directors, producers, writers, costume designers, and even stunt doubles. Included in this section are intimate one-on-one conversations with talented women like Gina Prince Bythewood, Susan Fales Hill, Effie Brown, Kay Oyegun, LaFaye Baker, Quinta Brunson and Franchesca Ramsey to name a few. There are also a few men like Prentice Penny, David E. Talbert, Malcom D. Lee and Reggie Rock Bythewood weighing in. Comcast’s network partners also participated by capturing conversations with their women behind the camera including Tasha Smith and D’Angela Proctor for TV One, Zola Mashariki and Connie Orlando for BET, Terri J. Vaughn for Aspire and Lucy Chodota for The Africa Channel, to name a few.

Lastly, Comcast believes in independent black filmmaking. The company has officially announced a partnership with American Black Film Festival and BlackStar Film Festival to launch a special collection through our Streampix on demand service, which is licensing short and feature length films and webisodes from alumni filmmakers who screened their works at past festivals. With these new partnerships, Comcast is using the Xfinity on Demand platform to invest in the black filmmaking community and showcase its work to an even broader audience.

Comcast is proud to create and launch a collection of content and stories that parents can sit down with their kids and watch together, not just in February but whenever they choose, because for Xfinity, Black History is Always On.

Users can find all of this content in the ‘Black Film & TV’ destination, on X1 on demand, by selecting the On Demand menu and scrolling right or by saying “Black Film & TV” into the X1 Voice Remote.

So what are you waiting for? Happy watching! #BlackHistoryAlwaysOn #XfinityBH

Movies

5 tips for your visit to The Great Wall in celebration of the upcoming film from Universal Pictures #THEGREATWALL

by KristinLeave a Comment on 5 tips for your visit to The Great Wall in celebration of the upcoming film from Universal Pictures #THEGREATWALL

5 tips for your visit to The Great Wall

Matt Damon is back on the big screen and this time he’s bringing with him the popular Chilean-born actor Pedro Pascal (Game of Thrones, Narcos) in Universal Pictures’ upcoming film The Great Wall. Prepare for an adventure that tells the story of an elite force making a valiant stand for humanity on the world’s most iconic structure.

In celebration of this release on February 17 we are counting down 5 important tips to make your trip to The Great wall, one of the most recognizable symbols of China, even more memorable. Here you go:

    1. Make sure you pick the right season as Winter and Summer have extreme temperature conditions.
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    1. Plan your trip ahead of time! Make sure to research hotels and different options for lodging. Make a plan on the different areas of the wall you plan to visit. Lastly, plan and check for transportation to The Great Wall; remember the wall is huge and over 13,170 miles long.
      5715_tp2_00112r

 

    1. Plan your trip ahead of time! Make sure to research hotels and different options for lodging. Make a plan on the different areas of the wall you plan to visit. Lastly, plan and check for transportation to The Great Wall; remember the wall is huge and over 13,170 miles long.
      5715_TP2_00076R.jpg

 

    1. Plan to take a hiking trip to soak up the scenery.
      5715_D049_00327R_CROP.JPG

 

  1. Visit the Mutianyu section of The Great Wall. This area is one of the most popular sections of the wall but also less crowded making it one of the best options to visit with breathtaking scenery.

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    Facebook.com/TheGreatWallMovie
    Twitter.com/TheGreatWall
    Instagram.com/TheGreatWallMovie

    #TheGreatWall

    Starring global superstar Matt Damon and directed by one of the most breathtaking visual stylists of our time, Zhang Yimou (Hero, House of Flying Daggers), Legendary’s The Great Wall tells the story of an elite force making a valiant stand for humanity on the world’s most iconic structure.  The first English-language production for Yimou is the largest film ever shot entirely in China.  The Great Wall also stars Jing Tian, Pedro Pascal, Willem Dafoe and Andy Lau.

    The film will be released in 3D by Universal Pictures on February 17.

Giveaway, Movies

‘Everybody Loves Somebody’ Screening Giveaway

by KristinLeave a Comment on ‘Everybody Loves Somebody’ Screening Giveaway

On the surface, the young and beautiful Clara Barron (Karla Souza) seems to have everything- a great job as an OB-GYN; a great house in LA; and a big fun-loving Mexican family. But, the one thing Clara doesn’t have figured out is her love life. Pressured by a family wedding in Mexico, Clara asks a co-worker to pose as her boyfriend for the weekend festivities – only to be caught by surprise when her ex-boyfriend (and family favorite) suddenly shows up after disappearing from her life completely. Torn, Clara must decide between going back to the past or open her heart to new and unexpected possibilities. In an adventure full of laughter, she learns that sometimes it takes the whole crazy family to help you find crazy love.

#EverybodyLovesSomebody
Monday, February 13
7:30PM

Visit GOFOBO.COM and insert code below

HOUSTON – AMC Studio 30 – ELSIWMHOU
DALLAS – AMC NorthPark 15 – ELSIWMDAL
EL PASO – Cinemark Tinseltown USA and XD – ELSIWMELP
PHOENIX – AMC Westgate 20 – ELSIWMPHO
CHICAGO – AMC Showplace Cicero 14 – ELSIWMCHI
MIAMI – AMC Sunset Place 24 – ELSIWMMIA
NEW YORK – AMC Empire 25 – ELSIWMNYC
SAN DIEGO – AMC Mission Valley 20 – ELSIWMSD
LOS ANGELES – AMC Burbank 16 – ELSIWMLA
SAN JOSE – AMC Eastridge 15 – ELSIWMSF

– – – – – – – – –

While supplies last. Once all allotted passes are redeemed, the code will no longer be valid. Supplies are limited. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Limit up to two (2) passes per person. Seating is first-come, first-serve basis. Employees of all promotional partners and their agencies are not eligible. Void where prohibited. Refer to screening pass for further restrictions. SEATING IS LIMITED, SO ARRIVE EARLY. PASS DOES NOT GUARANTEE A SEAT AT THE SCREENING.

– – – – – – – – –

#EverybodyLovesSomebody – In Theaters February 17
Facebook Page

Mike “The Movie Guy” Pierce
Daddy Blogger
http://iwatchmike.com

Podcaster on iwatchmike.com/itunes

Promotions Coordinator/Emcee/Social Media for Club Drink Houston & Diablo Loco Richmond Sports Bar

 Follow Me on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram

Giveaway

ENTER TO WIN: #THEGREAT WALL – PRIZE PACK #GIVEAWAY

by Kristin1 Comment on ENTER TO WIN: #THEGREAT WALL – PRIZE PACK #GIVEAWAY

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Starring global superstar Matt Damon and directed by one of the most breathtaking visual stylists of our time, Zhang Yimou (Hero, House of Flying Daggers), Legendary’s THE GREAT WALL tells the story of an elite force making a valiant stand for humanity on the world’s most iconic structure.  The first English-language production for Yimou is the largest film ever shot entirely in China.  THE GREAT WALL also stars Jing Tian, Pedro Pascal, Willem Dafoe and Andy Lau.  

The film will be released in 3D by Universal Pictures.

FACEBOOK.COM/THEGREATWALLMOVIE
TWITTER.COM/THEGREATWALL
INSTAGRAM.COM/THEGREATWALLMOVIE

#THEGREATWALL

 – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

Here’s what you have to do to enter the giveaway…answer the following question below…

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MATT DAMON FILM, AND WHY?

Send your ANSWER(S), FIRST & LAST NAME and FULL MAILING ADDRESS to accordingtokristin@gmail.com

In the subject line – THE GREAT WALL Prize Pack Giveaway

– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

This promotion will end February 16 at 10:00 AM (eastern time). Only one entry per person. No purchase necessary. U.S. and Canada residents are eligible to enter. Winners will be contacted via email. AccordingtoKristin.com and other promotional partners are not responsible for lost, stolen, or misdirected mail.

 

Genre:  3D Action-Thriller  
Cast: Matt Damon, Jing Tian, Pedro Pascal, Willem Dafoe, Hanyu Zhang, Eddie Peng, Lu Han, Kenny Lin, Junkai Wang, Zheng Kai, Cheney Chen, Xuan Huang and Andy Lau
Directed by:  Zhang Yimou
Story by:  Max Brooks and Edward Zwick & Marshall Herskovitz
Screenplay by:  Carlo Bernard & Doug Miro and Tony Gilroy
Produced by:   Thomas Tull, Charles Roven, Jon Jashni, Peter Loehr
Executive Producers: Jillian Share, Alex Gartner, La Peikang, Zhang Zhao, E. Bennett Walsh
Co-Producers:  Eric Hedayat, Er Young, Alex Hedlund

 

TV

#TV: A Glimpse Into #HUNTED on CBS

by KristinLeave a Comment on #TV: A Glimpse Into #HUNTED on CBS

hunted_still_logo_w_bodies_in_alley

 

If you had to go on the run, off the grid, could you? That’s precisely the premise of CBS’ the HUNTED. Now heading into its 3rd episode, HUNTED, a riveting new competition series that follows everyday people as they try to evade capture from elite team of investigators. HUNTED brings viewers into both sides of the hunt revealing what tactics and tools it takes to go on the run and a look into what intelligence the investigators have to capture the fugitives.

HUNTED features nine teams of two on the run for 28 days and an elite team of law enforcement professionals hot on their trail competing for $250,000. Within the team of law enforcement professionals is Detective Sgt. Roxanne Lopez who has 20 years of experience and former Army Ranger and Staff Sergeant Jonathan Gomez.

Meet the Fugitives from HUNTED:

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Meet the Hunters from HUNTED:

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And here are the Command Center Investigators from HUNTED:

hunted_commanders_group_shot

 

You can catch HUNTED Wednesdays at 8/7c on CBS.

Giveaway, Movies

@Thisfunktional #Contest: #FIFTYSHADESDARKER Prize Pack

by KristinLeave a Comment on @Thisfunktional #Contest: #FIFTYSHADESDARKER Prize Pack

 

Written by Jesus Figueroa

Thisfunktional is looking forward to “Fifty Shades Darker” and helping readers gear up with a prize pack giveaway for “Fifty Shades Darker.”

A total of two winners will each get their own “Fifty Shades Darker” prize pack.

Items included in the prize pack are:

  • (1) FIFTY SHADES DARKER Vanity Bag
  • (1) FIFTY SHADES DARKER Candle
  • (1) FIFTY SHADES DARKER Mirror
  • (1) FIFTY SHADES DARKER Lip Balm
  • (1) FIFTY SHADES DARKER T-shirt

How to win (Do all for best chance of winning):

  1. Go to Thisfunktional.com and on the bottom of the page sign up for the newsletter by entering your email address, and confirming the email used.
  2. Enter on twitter by showing your excitement for the movie by tweeting @Thisfunktional and using #Thisfunktional and #FiftyShadesDarker. (Must be following @Thisfunktional on Social Media to be able to win.)
  3. Follow @Thisfunktional on instagram and share and tag two friends on a post about this contest. (Easiest way would be to share would be to screenshot this post.)
  4. Like ThisfunktionalLA Facebook Page.

Disclaimer: 2 winners will be chosen. Contest runs to Feb. 5, 2017 at midnight PST. Winners will be notified on Feb. 5, 2017 by midnight PST with instructions on how to claim your prize. No purchase necessary. Prize provided by ThinkLatino.  Only open to the U.S., no PO Boxes or international addresses.

Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson return as Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele in “Fifty Shades Darker,” the second chapter based on the worldwide bestselling Fifty Shades phenomenon.

Expanding upon events set in motion in 2015’s blockbuster film that grossed more than $560 million globally, the new installment arrives for Valentine’s Day and invites you to slip into something a shade darker.

When a wounded Christian Grey tries to entice a cautious Ana Steele back into his life, she demands a new arrangement before she will give him another chance.

As the two begin to build trust and find stability, shadowy figures from Christian’s past start to circle the couple, determined to destroy their hopes for a future together.

Also returning from Fifty Shades of Grey are Academy Award® winner Marcia Gay Harden, Jennifer Ehle, Victor Rasuk, Luke Grimes, Rita Ora, Eloise Mumford and Max Martini, who are joined for the first time by Oscar® winner Kim Basinger, Bella Heathcote and Eric Johnson.

“Fifty Shades Darker” is directed by James Foley (Fear, House of Cards) and once again produced by Michael De Luca, Dana Brunetti and Marcus Viscidi, alongside E L James, the creator of the culture-spanning blockbuster series.  The screenplay is by Niall Leonard, based on the novel by James.

More on the film:
FIFTY SHADES DARKER
In Theaters Feb. 10
Entertainment News

ENDEMOL SHINE NORTH AMERICA SIGNS DEVELOPMENT DEAL WITH ANGIE MARTINEZ

by KristinLeave a Comment on ENDEMOL SHINE NORTH AMERICA SIGNS DEVELOPMENT DEAL WITH ANGIE MARTINEZ

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ENDEMOL SHINE NORTH AMERICA SIGNS  DEVELOPMENT DEAL WITH ANGIE MARTINEZ

Studio To Develop Traditional and Digital Content With Iconic Multimedia Personality

Endemol Shine North America has signed a development deal with multimedia personality and bestselling author Angie Martinez, it was announced today by Cris Abgreo, President, Endemol Shine North America.

As part of the agreement, Endemol Shine North America, the production company behind such hit series as “Big Brother” (CBS), “MasterChef” (FOX), “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” (Bravo) and upcoming “Hunted” (CBS), along with Major TV, will develop unscripted and scripted content with Martinez for both traditional and digital platforms.

Martinez is a prolific voice in media with more than 20 years of on-air hosting experience across a variety of platforms. Her years of experience shedding light on today’s pop culture moments and icons give her a unique perspective and creative eye. The partnership will allow Martinez an opportunity to expand upon her natural knack for telling compelling stories.

“Angie is undeniably one of the most influential personalities in pop culture,” said Endemol Shine North America’s Abrego. “We’re thrilled to be in business with her and we’re already developing a handful of original, ground-breaking, projects with Angie and the team at Major TV.”

“Working with Endemol Shine is an exciting first step for me in defining the next phase of my career,” Martinez says, “I’m looking forward to using my voice and platform to develop content that authentically speaks to the culture.”

Martinez is recognized as one of the most influential personalities in popular culture and multi-media. Angie’s 20 years of on-air hosting experience has led her to become the media trailblazer she is today: multimedia host, spokeswoman, actress, recording artist, entertainment personality, author and philanthropist.

Her weekday radio show, “The Angie Martinez Show,” airs on New York’s Power 105.1 and on Miami’s The Beat 103.5, and is also available through iHeartMedia.com and the iHeartMedia app.

In May 2016, Martinez released her first memoir, My Voice (Celebra-Penguin Random House), where she detailed her climb to becoming a multimedia icon in the world of entertainment. The book quickly became a New York Times bestseller.

Major TV is led by Raymond Garcia, formerly publisher and founder of Celebra at Penguin Random House, where he published numerous best-sellers with top authors such as Ricky Martin, Jennifer Lopez, Gloria and Emilio Estefan, and Chris Perez, author of To Selena With Love. In November, Endemol Shine North America and Major TV announced they had optioned the television rights to Perez’s To Selena With Love.

Entertainment News, TV

SAIL AWAY TO THE EASTERN CARIBBEAN ON THE MASTERCHEF CRUISE RETURNING NOVEMBER 2017

by KristinLeave a Comment on SAIL AWAY TO THE EASTERN CARIBBEAN ON THE MASTERCHEF CRUISE RETURNING NOVEMBER 2017

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Sail Away To The Eastern Caribbean On The MasterChef Cruise Returning November 2017 With A Line Up Of MasterChef Winners And Fan Favorites From The Hit Culinary Competition Series

  • MasterChef Winners Shaun O’Neale (Season Seven), Claudia Sandoval (Season Six), Luca Manfé (Season Four) and Fan Favorite Brandi Mudd (Season Seven Finalist) among featured talent to appear.
  • Embarking from Ft. Lauderdale, FL, the MasterChef Cruise will visit Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; and Half Moon Cay, Holland America Line’s award-winning private island in the Bahamas.

Building on last year’s successful second run of the MasterChef Cruise, the MasterChef Cruise is returning to the Caribbean for a third serving of culinary delight at sea November 12-19, 2017.

Presented by Endemol Shine North America, producers of the television series and events company Life Journeys, the MasterChef Cruise will bring back current MasterChef season seven winner Shaun O’Neale, who’s exquisite flavors and thoughtful dishes won over the MasterChef judges and earned him the winning title. Former MasterChef winners Claudia Sandoval (Season Six) and Luca Manfé (Season Four) are also set to return. Fan favorite Brandi Mudd (Season Seven finalist) will join the winners circle. Each chef will bring to the table their individual specialties, techniques and the ultimate show experience for fans and foodies alike while visiting the beautiful islands of the Caribbean.

Guests can look forward to the week-long adventure at sea with opportunities to expand their own culinary skills. The MasterChef Cruise will offer 15 hours of theatre programming such as cooking demonstrations, mystery box challenges, pressure tests, audience participation and more inspired by the show, MasterChef. A number of premium events and dining experiences will also be available. All events and programming are exclusive to MasterChef Cruise guests and will be announced at a later date.

New in 2017, the MasterChef Cruise will sail to the Eastern Caribbean on Holland America Line’s first Signature-class cruise ship, ms Eurodam. Now, as part of a $300 million fleet enhancement initiative, Eurodam recently received enhancements showcasing a host of exciting updates, including a new lounge, dining and entertainment venues, and completely refreshed suites.

The 7-day cruise setting sail November 12-19, 2017 will embark from Fort Lauderdale, Fla. and it will visit Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; and Half Moon Cay, Holland America Line’s award-winning private island in the Bahamas.

To learn more about the third MasterChef Cruise and relive last year’s tasteful voyage, guests can visit www.masterchefcruise.com

Giveaway, Movies

ENTER TO WIN: ‘Split’ Prize Pack #Giveaway

by Kristin1 Comment on ENTER TO WIN: ‘Split’ Prize Pack #Giveaway

image001Hey everyone!

I’m happy to announce that I have two (2) #SplitMovie prize packs to giveaway! Instructions on how to enter can be found below. Will you be checking out the film in theaters? Let me know what your favorite part of the trailer is. It’s definitely a thriller!

SYNOPSIS: Writer/director/producer M. Night Shyamalan returns to the captivating grip of The Sixth Sense, Unbreakable and Signs with Split, an original thriller that delves into the mysterious recesses of one man’s fractured, gifted mind.  Following last year’s breakout hit The Visit, Shyamalan reunites with producer Jason Blum (The Purge and Insidious series, The Gift) for the film.

While the mental divisions of those with dissociative identity disorder have long fascinated and eluded science, it is believed that some can also manifest unique physical attributes for each personality, a cognitive and physiological prism within a single being.  

Though Kevin (James McAvoy) has evidenced 23 personalities to his trusted psychiatrist, Dr. Fletcher (Betty Buckley), there remains one still submerged who is set to materialize and dominate all the others.  Compelled to abduct three teenage girls led by the willful, observant Casey (Anya Taylor-Joy, The Witch), Kevin reaches a war for survival among all of those contained within him—as well as everyone around him—as the walls between his compartments shatter apart.

For Split, Shyamalan and Blum reassemble their core team from The Visit, the No. 1-grossing horror film of 2015.  Their fellow collaborators include producer Marc Bienstock and executive producers Ashwin Rajan and Steven Schneider.

www.splitmovie.com

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Here’s what you have to do to enter the giveaway…answer the following question below

WHAT IS YOUR ALL-TIME FAVORITE THRILLER MOVIE, AND WHY?

Send your ANSWER(S), FIRST & LAST NAME and FULL MAILING ADDRESS to accordingtokristin@gmail.com

In the subject line – Split Prize Pack Giveaway

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This promotion will end January 20 at 10:00 AM (eastern time). Only one entry per person. No purchase necessary. U.S. and Canada residents are eligible to enter. Winners will be contacted via email. AccordingtoKristin.com and other promotional partners are not responsible for lost, stolen, or misdirected mail.

Movies

Movies You Don’t Want to Miss in 2017

by KristinLeave a Comment on Movies You Don’t Want to Miss in 2017

If you’re a fan of thrillers, prepare for two of the best thrillers in 2017. Split, an intriguing suspense-filled film centered on the mysterious corners of the mind of a man who has manifested 23 personalities with one personality remaining and still submerged set to materialize and dominate all the others. This film stars James McAvoy and Latina actress Anya Taylor-Joy (Morgan and The Witch), and will be released in theaters on January 20, 2017.


Split (Universal Pictures):

 

Another thriller that you won’t want to miss is Get Out and will be in theaters on February 24. The film follows a meet-the-parents weekend getaway for a young African-American and his girlfriend at her family’s estate. Within the course of a few days, a series of increasingly disturbing discoveries lead him to a truth that he could have never imagined.


Get Out (Universal Pictures):

 

If you are feeling a like you need a little action in your life then The Great Wall will give you all the action you can handle. The film stars Matt Damon and Chilean actor Pedro Pascal from Narcos and Game of Thrones. This film, which premieres on February 17, 2017 tells the story of an elite force making a valiant stand for humanity on the world’s most iconic structure.


The Great Wall (Universal Pictures):

 

And of course we all need a little comedy. After all, laughter is one of the best ways to celebrate the new year. The new comedy starring Jacqueline Bracamontes, Sergio Mayer Mori, and Benny Ibarra Un Padre No Tan Padre, will have you literally laughing out loud as Don Servando Villegas (Hector Bonilla), an 85-year-old feisty and old-fashioned Mexican patriarch gets kicked out of his retirement home for bad behavior. Don’t miss it in theaters on January 27, 2017.


Un Padre No Tan Padre (Pantelion Films):

 

If you’re feeling the love after Valentine’s Day then make it a date night (or a girl’s night out) for Valentine’s Day weekend, and catch two love-filled films. Everybody Loves Somebody (Pantelion Films), which will be in theaters on February 17 stars Karla Souza as Clara who confronts her ex-boyfriend at a family wedding after having completely disappeared from her life. Clara will have to decide between going back to the past or opening her heart to new and unexpected possibilities.


Everybody Loves Somebody (Pantelion Films):

 

You’re Killing Me Susana, the new film with Gael García Bernal and Verónica Echegui will also be in theaters on February 17, 2017. This film follows Eligio (Gael), who wakes up one morning and realizes that his wife has suddenly abandoned him. After learning that she has enrolled in a writing program at an Iowa University, he decides to go after her and persuade her to return to him.


You’re Killing Me Susana (Hola Mexico Distribution):

 

 

And finally, the team who brought you Despicable Me and the biggest animated hits of 2013 and 2015, Despicable Me 2 and Minions, returns to continue the adventures of Gru, Lucy, their adorable daughters—Margo, Edith and Agnes—and the Minions in Despicable Me 3. In theaters on June 30, 2017


Despicable Me 3 (Universal Pictures):

Entertainment News, Movies

COMENTARIOS EN REALIDAD VIRTUAL EN 360° DEL ACLAMADO DIRECTOR PETER BERG EN “DEEPWATER HORIZON VR”, AHORA DISPONIBLE EN PLATAFORMAS iOS & ANDROID

by KristinLeave a Comment on COMENTARIOS EN REALIDAD VIRTUAL EN 360° DEL ACLAMADO DIRECTOR PETER BERG EN “DEEPWATER HORIZON VR”, AHORA DISPONIBLE EN PLATAFORMAS iOS & ANDROID

COMENTARIOS EN REALIDAD VIRTUAL EN 360° DEL ACLAMADO DIRECTOR PETER BERG EN “DEEPWATER HORIZON VR”, AHORA DISPONIBLE EN PLATAFORMAS iOS & ANDROID

Deepwater Horizon Disponible en Digital HD Ahora
y en 4K Ultra HD, Blu-rayTM Combo Pack y DVD el 10 de Enero

 

DWH_VRApp_Infographic_Final_Spanish[1].pngSANTA MÓNICA, CA y VANCOUVER, BC (21 de diciembre de 2016) – Para celebrar el lanzamiento Digital HD de Deepwater Horizon, Lionsgate está llevando los comentarios de las películas al siguiente nivel con Deepwater Horizon VR app, una aplicación nueva disponible ahora en plataformas móviles iOS y Android. Con la novedosa e inmersiva Deepwater Horizon VR, los fans sentirán por primera vez la emoción de compartir la misma habitación con el director Peter Berg (Lone Survivor, Patriots Day), mientras este se sumerge con comentarios exclusivos en la aclamada película Deepwater Horizon acompañado por el editor Colby Parker Jr (Lone Survivor, Patriots Day). Creado por SubVRsive en colaboración con Lionsgate, los espectadores estarán rodeados por reproducciones y diseños de los distintos efectos especiales utilizados en la película, que serán comentados por Berg y Parker Jr.

“Lionsgate fue una de las primeras compañías de comunicación en implementar las aplicaciones de consumo para VR, y estamos dedicados a que nuestra oferta evolucione para mejorar el involucramiento de los seguidores en nuestro contenido”, dijo Jim Parker, Presidente de Televisión Global y Distribución Digital de Lionsgate. “Con nuestra aplicación VR, los fans se sumergen por completo en el mundo de Deepwater Horizon como si estuvieran observando a través de los ojos de nuestros cineastas, y es una experiencia única que le da una dimensión más al cine en el hogar”.

La experiencia móvil Deepwater Horizon VR incluye tres escenas de la película con comentarios – solo disponible a través de la aplicación – y se puede descargar gratuitamente en la tienda de aplicaciones de Apple y en Google Play. Al descargar la aplicación se accede a la primera escena, mientras que las escenas adicionales se desbloquean mediante el reconocimiento de voz una vez que se está viendo Deepwater Horizon.

La aplicación se puede usar en teléfonos inteligentes iPhone y Android que cuenten con dispositivos compatibles de visionado de realidad virtual como Google Cardboard, el cual debería utilizarse cuando uno se encuentre sentado. Para el usuario sin un visualizador VR móvil, se puede disfrutar de la experiencia utilizando el modo de vídeo en 360 grados. Antes del uso del dispositivo compatible de visionado VR, deben seguirse todas las instrucciones que se incluyen junto a este. Dicho uso debe descontinuarse si se experimentan molestias o reacciones adversas para la salud.


Google Play

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lionsgate.deepwatervr

 

Tienda de Aplicaciones de Apple

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/deepwater-horizon-vr/id1181710271?ls=1&mt=8

 

Sinopsis de Deepwater Horizon:

Mark Wahlberg encabeza un reparto estelar en una película inolvidable que se inspira en una apasionante historia sobre héroes en la vida real. Para las ciento veintiséis personas a bordo de la plataforma petrolera Deepwater Horizon, el 20 de abril de 2010 arrancó como un día normal. Pero antes de que el día acabe, el mundo será testigo de uno de los mayores desastres humanos de la historia de Estados Unidos. Deepwater Horizon expone la valentía de los hombres y mujeres que se crecieron ante el desafío que se les presentó – y que arriesgaron todo para conducir a otras personas a un lugar seguro.

Entertainment News, Movies

360° VIRTUAL REALITY COMMENTARY BY ACCLAIMED DIRECTOR PETER BERG IN “DEEPWATER HORIZON VR” NOW AVAILABLE ON iOS & ANDROID PLATFORMS

by KristinLeave a Comment on 360° VIRTUAL REALITY COMMENTARY BY ACCLAIMED DIRECTOR PETER BERG IN “DEEPWATER HORIZON VR” NOW AVAILABLE ON iOS & ANDROID PLATFORMS

360° VIRTUAL REALITY COMMENTARY BY ACCLAIMED DIRECTOR PETER BERG IN “DEEPWATER HORIZON VR” NOW AVAILABLE ON iOS & ANDROID PLATFORMS

Deepwater Horizon Available on Digital HD Now
and on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray TM Combo Pack and DVD January 10th

 

DWH_VRApp_Infographic_Final.png

To celebrate the Digital HD release of Deepwater Horizon, Lionsgate is taking film commentary to the next level with the new Deepwater Horizon VR app, now available on iOS and Android mobile platforms. Using the new immersive Deepwater Horizon VR, fans will experience, for the first time ever, the thrill of being in the same room with director Peter Berg (Lone Survivor, Patriots Day) as he dives into the critically acclaimed film Deepwater Horizon with exclusive commentary alongside editor Colby Parker Jr (Lone Survivor, Patriots Day). Created by SubVRsive in partnership with Lionsgate, viewers will be surrounded by renderings and sketches of the various special effects used in the film, as Berg and Parker Jr. reference them.

“Lionsgate was one of the first media companies to embrace consumer applications for VR and we are dedicated to evolving our offerings to enhance the fan involvement in our content,” said Jim Packer, Lionsgate President of Worldwide TV & Digital Distribution. “With our VR app, fans fully immerse themselves in the world of Deepwater Horizon as seen through the eyes of our filmmakers, and it is a unique experience that adds a new dimension to home viewing.”

The mobile Deepwater Horizon VR experience includes three film scenes with commentary – only available via the app – and is free to download through the Apple App Store or Google Play. The first scene is fully accessible when the app is downloaded and the additional scenes are unlocked using audio recognition while viewing Deepwater Horizon.

The app can be used on an iPhone or Android smartphone with a compatible virtual reality viewing device such as Google Cardboard, which should be used while seated.  Alternately, users without a mobile VR viewer can enjoy the experience in 360 video mode. All instructions included with the compatible VR viewing device should be followed before use and such use should not continue if any discomfort or health reactions are experienced.

Google Play

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lionsgate.deepwatervr

Apple App Store

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/deepwater-horizon- vr/id1181710271?ls=1&mt=8
Deepwater Horizon Synopsis:

Mark Wahlberg leads an all-star cast in this unforgettably powerful film inspired by a thrilling story of real-life heroes. For the one hundred and twenty-six people aboard the Deepwater Horizon offshore oil rig, April 20, 2010, began like any normal day. Before day’s end, the world would bear witness to one of the greatest man-made disasters in U.S. history. Deepwater Horizon reveals the brave acts of the men and women who rose to the challenge—and risked everything to lead others to safety.

TV

CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS EN FAMILIA #Xfinity

by KristinLeave a Comment on CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS EN FAMILIA #Xfinity

holiday-moviethon-on-xfinity-english

CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS EN FAMILIA

The holidays are a special time for all families, and if you are Latino, you know that everyone comes over to celebrate. More than likely your casa is going to be full of family, food, música and tons of suggestions for what to view on TV. Luckily, with Xfinity the entire family can get together and watch a variety of programming in your language of choice, whenever, wherever.


KIDS ZONE

For the house filled with little ones, Xfinity’s Kids Zone on the X1 platform will provide your family with hundreds of children’s TV shows and movies that have been specially curated and deemed appropriate to watch by Common Sense Media’s rating system. No more worrying about what your kids are watching! Kids can enjoy Holiday classics like Home Alone and How the Grinch Stole Christmas or catch up on their favorite TV shows, including SpongeBob SquarePants and Mickey Mouse Clubhouse.

NETFLIX

For those with a Netflix account, Xfinity has seamlessly integrated all the content of this streaming service into the X1 platform. Browsing and searching for your favorite titles on Netflix has never been easier, especially with the X1’s voice remote control which takes you directly to the content you want with just the sound of your voice. Catch up on the new seasons of Netflix original shows like Gilmore Girls or The Adventures of Puss in Boots directly on the X1 browser.

BINGE-WORTHY SERIES OF 2016

If you want to binge on TV series during your holiday posadas, there are thousands of options for everyone in the family. For my family it’s all about This Is Us! This heartwarming series is perfect for the holidays. There’s other shows as well like NBC Universo’s hit series El Vato featuring Mexican regional star El Dasa, to Telemundo’s El Señor de los Cielos, there’s plenty you can enjoy with your family. Young and old can also binge on Mexican classics and over 30 of famed Mexican comedian Cantinflas’ best movies available on Demand via Cine Sony Television. Just say “Cantinflas” to your remote control.

BILINGUAL HOLIDAY MOVIES

And no family gathering is complete without binging on Holiday movies and specials. The content options for your fiestas are endless and even more now that many of these films can also be viewed in Spanish (via the SAP filter). You can watch Elf, Miracle on 34th Street, and many more favorites completely in Spanish with your abuelos or primos!

 

Catch this and even more content via the On Demand menu, on the mobile app Xfinity Go and the web portal at es.Xfinity.com.

Get ready to experience the best holidays ever. A echar la casa por la ventana con Xfinity!

Movie Reviews

@Keishamaze Movie Review: Does Assassin’s Creed Break the Video Game Movie Curse?

by KristinLeave a Comment on @Keishamaze Movie Review: Does Assassin’s Creed Break the Video Game Movie Curse?

 

Directed by: Justin Kurzel

Starring: Marion Cotillard, Michael Fassbender, Jeremy Irons, Brendan Gleeson, Michael Kenneth Williams, Ariane Labed and Charlotte Rampling

Rated: PG-13

Assassin’s Creed reunites director Justin Kurzel and actors Marion Cotillard and Michael Fassbender (who worked together on 2015’s Macbeth) for a fun adaptation of the the popular video game.

The story centers on Calum Lynch (Fassbender), a descendant of a secret society known as the Assassins. He’s recruited by Sophia Rikkin (Cotillard) and subsequently forced into the Animus, advanced technology which unlocks his genetic memory and allows him to assume the life of his ancestor Aguilar during the Spanish Inquisition. It’s these flashbacks that allow him to acquire the skills needed to take down the modern day Templars who are holding him and other Assassins hostage.

Fassbender says they chose that timeline because “we wanted to get a brand new timeline from the games and play wit history.” That means this original story is now canon in the game world. As such, Kurzel focused on making the 15th century scenes as accurate as possible by using real locations and avoiding the camp that befalls many a movie adapted from a video game. What follows is a series of beautifully shot scenes with minimal dialogue that almost make you feel like you’re in the game. And according to Fassbender, he performed about 95% of the stunts (just not that 150 ft Leap of Faith because…well, you know!) to add to the authenticity.

I can’t say that this breaks the video game movie curse but it does put forth a decent effort. The Aminus scenes alone are worth the ticket price because they deliver all the action you could ever want from the film. Rather than showing a guy writhing in a chair, Kurzel makes him more active by adapting the Animus into a mobile arm that allows Lynch to jump and flip—those scenes perfectly intercut with the ones in which his ancestor is performing the same actions.

Where the film falters is in the storylines outside of 15th Century Spain. In the real world, Sophia believes she’s doing good by her subjects when, really, she’s only after the Apple of Eden which supposedly fixes the aggression trait in people. She thinks she can save humanity with it but her father Rikkin (played by Jeremy Irons) believes subjugation is the way to go. There is a lot of story in this film which makes it a little hard to follow at times. Plus, they drag down the pace. On top of that, we’re also dealing with an interesting group of assassins we barely get to see. I often found myself wondering who they were and from which timeline their ancestors came from.

Still, it’s an enjoyable film overall and not the worst of the bunch. Since we’ve only scratched the surface with the assassins, it’s clear that more films will follow. According to the Playlist, Fassbender says the movie was originally intended to be a trilogy. If they do decide to continue the story, I hope Kurzel’s team fixes the pacing and realizes that they don’t need to cram so much into one film. Makes for a smoother ride.

-Keisha (@Keishamaze)

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars.

Assassin’s Creed is out in theaters now.