@Thisfunktional Early Gift Guide For The Kids

@Thisfunktional Early Gift Guide For The Kids

Written by Jesus Figueroa (@Thisfunktional)

Halloween is now in the past and with thanksgiving just a few weeks away why not get started with Christmas shopping.
Disney, Marvel and Star Wars have some excellent toys for the kids this gift giving season.

Check out these top 10 gifts from their catalogue this 2017 holiday season:

Marvel Spider-Man Homecoming: Official Movie Edition Spider Drone
Licensee: Skyrocket
MSRP: $79.99
Retailers: Mass and shopDisney.com
Available: Now
Now you can help your favorite superhero watch over the city with your own Official Spider-Man: Homecoming Movie Edition Spider-Drone, Powered by Sky Viper. With eight legs and a Spidey-suit-inspired style, this drone is an authentic replica of Spider-Man’s new gadget in the blockbuster film. As your drone takes flight, follow along with the Spider-Drone app to unlock achievements and view media in the gallery. Flight Assist features include Auto Land and Auto Hover, plus Voice Feedback with real phrases from the movie, to make flying fun and easy for any Spider-Man fan.
Spider-Man Interactive App-Enabled Super Hero Powered by Sphero
Licensee: Sphero 
MSRP: $149.99
Retailers: shopDisney.com, Mass and Specialty retailers
Available: Now
Team up. Hang out. Fight villains. Hero stuff.
Join forces with Spider-Man™ and enter the Marvel Universe like never before. This voice interactive Super Hero features hours of entertainment. Embark on missions where you’ll take on the city’s worst criminals and battle Spidey’s most notorious villains. Every decision you make creates a new path forward, so your unique journey will continue to evolve. Spidey’s Wi-Fi capabilities allow for new missions, games, stories, jokes, and other content updates. When not fighting bad guys, hang out and strike up some banter with your friendly neighborhood hero. Spidey’s reactions and signature snarky attitude are sure to keep you on your toes.
Built with fully animated LCD eyes and motion detection, Spider-Man is as expressive as he is perceptive. Watch him react to people passing by, set him to wake you up, or have him guard your room to stop snooping siblings. The tech in this interactive, immersive, and intellectual Spidey empowers you to be his heroic ally.
Marvel Spider-Man Mega City Playset
Licensee: Hasbro
MSRP: $99.99
Retailers: Mass
Available: Now
Imagine swinging into action and saving the city with SPIDER-MAN! At a towering 46 inches tall – nearly 4 feet! – this playset includes more than 20 features and 5 levels of play, from the subway to the bank vault and PETER PARKER’s secret lab. Hook SPIDER-MAN up to the web zipline and watch as he swings into action to stop villains from using the exploding door to steal money bags from the bank. Kids can launch projectiles and send bad guys to their doom with multiple trap doors and secret passageways, and lock up to 6 villains in web jail!
Marvel Legends Series Star-Lord Electronic Helmet
Licensee: Hasbro
MSRP: $99.99
Retailers: Mass
Available: Now
Channel the legendary outlaw STAR-LORD with this highly detailed and 1:1 full scale electronic helmet! Features premium movie-inspired sculpting and deco, as well as electronic sound effects and light up eyes. Fully adjustable to fit most heads. Requires 3 AA batteries, not included.
Disney, Star Wars and Marvel vívofit® jr. 2
Licensee: Garmin
MSRP: $99.99
Retailers: Retailers nationwide
Available: September 27, 2017
Featuring designs of kids’ favorite characters including Minnie Mouse, BB-8 and Marvel’s Captain America, each band theme offers a corresponding mobile app adventure where children can complete missions to advance in the journey and unlock new character step icons, with the help of their parents, by achieving 60 minutes of activity every day. This exciting collaboration leverages kids’ favorite characters, encouraging children to be active, and ultimately shaping habits for lifelong health and fitness.
Star Wars: Jedi Challenges Augmented Reality Experience
Licensee: Lenovo
MSRP: $199.99
Retailers: Best Buy and Lenovo online
Availability: Holiday 2017
A new augmented reality Star Wars product that allows fans to experience Star Wars in ways never before possible. Jedi Challenges features a smartphone-powered Lenovo Mirage AR headset, Tracking Beacon, Lightsaber controller, and hours of Star Wars gameplay. The product is compatible with both Android phones and iPhones, will be available this holiday season and is available for pre-order now for $199.99 at Best Buy and Lenovo online.
Star Wars Force Link BB-8 2-In-1 Mega Playset (With Force Link Wearable Band)
Licensee: Hasbro
MSRP: $199.99
Retailers: US, UK, Australia, China, and Singapore. Available at most major retailers, shopDisney.com and on HasbroToyShop.com.
Availability: Now
The power of the Force is in your hands with FORCE LINK! Activate incredible FORCE LINK sounds and phrases in the BB-8 2-IN-1 MEGA PLAYSET. On the outside, this playset resembles the iconic astromech droid BB-8 from STAR WARS: THE LAST JEDI. Open the BB-8 exterior to uncover a multi-level playset where the real fun begins! This playset features 3 FORCE LINK activation areas with sounds and phrases, as well as 6 play areas to recreate favorite scenes. Discover tons of awesome features such as hidden trap doors, a firing canon with sound effects, and more! The playset also includes 3.75-inch SUPREME LEADER SNOKE and ELITE PRAETORIAN GUARD (with Single Blade) FORCE LINK-activated figures. Includes playset, FORCE LINK wearable technology, 2 figures, and accessory. Requires 3 1.5V AA Alkaline batteries, not included. Compatible with all products in the FORCE LINK line, each sold separately. Ages 4 years & up/Approx.
Propel Star Wars Battle Drones
Licensee: Propel
MSRP: $179
Availability: Now
Introducing the Propel Star Wars Battle Drones.  Bring the magic of flight to a whole new dimension with the Propel T64 X Wing Starfighter, Tie Advanced X1 and the 74Z Speeder Bike quadcopter. You can fly these drones at top speeds up to 35 miles per hour and engage friends and family in exciting multiplayer battles!  Now comes with a companion app.
Droid Inventor Kit
Licensee: littleBits
MSRP: $99.95
Retailers: Walmart, Amazon, Apple Store, Disney Store, shopDisney.com and littleBits.com
Availability: Now
Kids can create their own droid and bring it to life using littleBits electronic Bits and a smart device. With the droid Inventor app, they’ll give their droid new abilities and take it on 16+ missions. Then they’ll level-up their inventor skills, reconfiguring parts to design any droid they can dream up. The kit comes with everything kids need to create and customize a droid straight out of the box. Initial configuration is easy with step-by-step video instructions to create their droid, then control it in Drive mode, Self Navigation Mode, Force Mode, and more. After mastering these skills, kids continue on to challenges that spark creativity and get them inventing brand-new droids.
R2-D2™ App-Enabled Droid™
Licensee: Sphero
MSRP: $179.99
Retailers: Sphero.com, Apple, Amazon, Target, Best Buy, Disney Store and more
Availability: Now

R2-D2™ is an astromech droid from a galaxy far, far away…. Control your droid with your smart device, watch Star Wars™ films together, explore holographic simulations, and more.

James Franco Scares Unsuspecting Guests at Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights

James Franco Scares Unsuspecting Guests at Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights
WATCH: James Franco and Chris Bauer took a swing at scaring Halloween Horror Nights’ guests in Stanley Kubrick “The Shining” maze at Universal Studios Hollywood

“The Shining” maze at Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights provides guests with a unique opportunity to relive some of the film’s most iconic, and sinister, moments.

While venturing through the eerie Overlook Hotel, guests will be thrust into the hotel’s tragic history of murder and madness, bearing witness to caretaker Jack Torrance’s spiraling descent into insanity.

Nightmarish visions will come to life in this macabre maze, overwhelming guests with the “shine” of the murderous, ghostly entities that lurk around every turn – all while trying to escape the wrath of Jack Torrance as he violently succumbs to the hotel’s paranormal forces.

“Halloween Horror Nights” at Universal Studios Hollywood continues select nights through Nov. 4.

“Halloween Horror Nights” at Universal Studios Hollywood brings together the sickest minds in horror to immerse guests in a living, breathing, three-dimensional world of terror.

Featuring an all-new slate of unrivaled film production quality mazes and frightful scare zones, “Halloween Horror Nights” will taunt, terrorize and torment guests with spine-chilling haunted attractions as part of Southern California’s most extreme Halloween experience.Updates on “Halloween Horror Nights” at Universal Studios Hollywood are available online at HalloweenHorrorNights.com/Hollywood and on Facebook at: “Halloween Horror Nights – Hollywood,” on Instagram at @HorrorNights and Twitter at @HorrorNights as Creative Director John Murdy reveals a running chronicle of exclusive information.

Watch videos on Halloween Horror Nights YouTube and join the conversation using #UniversalHHN.

Spooky Good Deal on Tickets to Cirque du Soleil’s LUZIA

Cirque du Soleil is bringing their visually stunning production “LUZIA” to SoCal in December.

To celebrate, Cirque du Soleil is offering a special offer on tickets.

If you buy between Oct. 17 and Nov. 2, you’ll receive 20% off your purchase.

This Halloween, buy tickets to a show that is guaranteed to offer many tricks and treats.

In a series of grand visual surprises and breathtaking acrobatic performances, “LUZIA” takes audiences on a surrealistic journey through an imaginary Mexico – a sumptuous world filled with wonders, playfulness and striking artistry.

Smoothly passing from an old movie set to the ocean to a smoky dance hall or an arid desert, “LUZIA” cleverly brings to the stage multiple places, faces and sounds of Mexico taken from both tradition and modernity.

Rich in awe-inspiring moments “LUZIA,” enchants by bringing circus disciplines to a whole new level with never-before-seen technology and the incorporation of rain into acrobatic acts.

Buy tickets here:
LA: 
OC: 

New Spanish Streaming App PANTAYA Launches With Support From Omar Chaparro, Maite Perroni

Written by Jesus Figueroa (@Thisfunktional)

Latin American stars Omar Chaparro and Maite Perroni are proud to be the ambassadors for the Spanish-language streaming app Pantaya.

The Pantaya app will bring the major productions from not only the cinema from Mexico, but also from Spanish-speaking countries.

Along with cinema from Spanish-speaking countries, major motion pictures will be dubbed and subtitled for viewers to enjoy.

For Latin viewers who are more comfortable with the English-language subtitles from Spanish movies will also be available.

Aside from the major productions, many of the movies that have not had a United States release will have a platform for viewers to have access to them.

Chaparro said that users of the app will be able to keep up with movies from all Spanish speaking countries as well as rewatch the classic movies.

The app is able to search for movies by genre, country, language, decade and even actors.

The user interface is easy to navigate and contain a section which contains a history of movies watched as well as suggestions for movies the user may enjoy.

Perroni said that the entire family can gather around to watch movies off the app regardless of age or how well they understand English or Spanish. The movies are also released across all regions at once, so families in different countries can be watching the same content and talking to each other about what they have been watching.

As Hollywood struggles to be inclusive an app like PantaYa brings people together in a new way.

Content that wasn’t available in the United States before now has a platform to be seen. Actors who have remained unknown in Hollywood mainstream can now be seen by a new audience.

PantaYa is available now with a 7-day free trial and a monthly cost of $5.99 per month.

Available at Pantaya.com.

Jessica Cameron, @Thisfunktional Walkthrough #FOXHorrorRewind

The free experience will allow Los Angeles natives to step into worlds of horror classics old and new including “THE FLY,” “THE HILLS HAVE EYES,” “28 DAYS LATER” and “CARRIE”

Written by Jesus Figueroa (@Thisfunktional)

Actress, director, producer and Scream Queen Jessica Cameron and Jesus Figueroa, @Thisfunktional of Thisfunktional.com, walk through pop-up haunt FOX’s “Horror Rewind,” open Oct. 13 to 15 in Downtown Los Angeles.

The video walkthrough just shows a look into the experience which attendees get to be a part of.

The scare actors are fantastic, from the “Tour Guide,” played by Jillian Clare, to several monsters and Carrie, the experience feels like a seamless mesh of some iconic horror movies.

The free pop-up event, inspired by the 19 re-releases of horror classics on Blu-ray and DVD from the Fox Home Entertainment catalog with brand new packaging designed by digital artist Orlando Arocena, available now, which is in the Art District of downtown Los Angeles is a fun and thrilling roughly 10-minute immersive experience.

Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment brings some their most terrifying horror films to life when “HORROR REWIND” arrives in Downtown Los Angeles the weekend of Friday the 13th. 

Taking place over the course of three nights, this immersive experience is produced by The Great Company in collaboration with the creators of premiere interactive horror theater Delusion.

In a secluded corner of the Arts District of Los Angeles, a deranged horror movie super fan, has created a living, breathing installation in homage to his four favorite films (THE FLY, THE HILLS HAVE EYES, 28 DAYS LATER and CARRIE). 

In tribute to these films, he has trapped innocent civilians inside and transformed them into demented and deformed monsters, forced to live-out his most terrifying celluloid nightmares.

For those who make it out alive, forget what your mother told you and stop by the ominous van parked outside. 

There you’ll be able to feed your own macabre obsessions and purchase any of 19 brand new Blu-rays featuring collectible packaging cover designs by acclaimed digital artist Orlando Arocena.  Limited edition posters of Arocena’s work will also be available as a gift with purchase while supplies last.

Fans can also purchase the full line-up of the Halloween faceplates from Arocena here: bit.ly/FoxHalloweenWM.

Admission is free but ticketing is EXTREMELY limited and on a FIRST-COME-FIRST SERVE BASIS, Oct. 13 to 15 from 8 p.m. to midnight.

Guests must register in advance at HORRORREWIND.EVENTBRITE.COM to receive an appointment day and time.

A limited number of standby tickets will also be available via the above website.

Be sure to use #FOXHorrorRewind to share your experience.

Part of the fun is enjoying it with people who enjoy the fear, such as Jessica Cameron who joined for the scary fun.

Cameron and the rest of the group were thrilled at the opportunity to jump in and the not only walkthrough but actively be part of the story room after room.

FOX Presents HORROR REWIND
Oct. 13 -15 8 p.m. – Midnight
Follow and interact with Jesus:
Twitter – @Thisfunktional
Instagram – @Thisfunktional
Facebook – ThisfunktionalLA
Tumblr – Thisfunktional
AudioBoom – Thisfunktional
YouTube – Thisfunktional

Follow and interact with Jessica Cameron:
Twitter – @JessicaCameron_
Instagram – @ActressJessicaCameron
Facebook – ActressJessicaCameron

IN REAL LIFE Talks with @ThisFunktional at the Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor

IMG_9911

Jesus of ThisFunktional.com & According to Kristin got the chance to speak with newly formed boy band, In Real Life, at the Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor event in Long Beach, CA.

After winning spots in the final band on ABC’s Boy Band, a debut single that charted soon after its release, a debut video that has surpassed the milestone of 1 million views, a contract with Hollywood Records and a manager (Johnny Wright) who has worked with some of the top artists in the industry (*NSYNC, Justin Timberlake, Backstreet Boys), In Real Life is in a great place right now and this is only the beginning.

With some long distance help from yours truly, they spoke with Jesus about getting more involved in the writing process, how much creative control they’re being given, being role models and working with Johnny Wright.

Check out the interview below:

Meet the guys:

Chance Perez, 19, of Seal Beach, CA – He’s a loving father of a beautiful 2-year-old girl, Brooklyn, and was a fan favorite on ABC’s Boy Band from the beginning. Chance almost gave up on music in order to pursue a career as a firefighter, but luckily he gave the show a chance and made the final 5.

Drew Ramos, 19, of Bronx, NY – Drew won us over during his audition when he proudly stated that he was a momma’s boy. His love for music led him to singing on the subway in NY and now he’s 1/5 of the world’s newest boy band. He’s a self-proclaimed nerd who loves Star Wars and video games, and we’re all on board!

Michael Conor, 18, of Cleveland, OH – Michael gave fans something different throughout his time on the show. Not only is he a creative genius who can rap & freestyle his way out of anything, he’s also a violinist and a loving big brother. At times Michael had to work harder than most in order to embrace the singing part of the show, but he succeeded and made his way to the final band.

Sergio Calderon, Jr., 16, of Redwood City, CA – Sergio also brought something different to the show by adding Spanish verses to the songs. He gave up his dream of playing professional soccer in order to pursue a career in music. Now he’s part of In Real Life, singing and making everyone laugh one day at a time.

Brady Tutton, 15, Shorewood, WI – Brady was one of the youngest on the show, but proved his talent when he sang in Italian during his audition and consistently wowed the judges each week. As a classically trained singer, an actor, and an all-around lovable guy, Brady gets to showcase his talent with his unofficial big brothers.

Also, check out this adorable shout out Jesus managed to get for my niece and me since we weren’t able to be there:

You can follow the guys on social media here:

In Real Life:               Twitter | Instagram | #lifelines

Chance Perez:           Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Drew Ramos:            Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Michael Conor:         Twitter | Instagram |
Sergio Calderon:      Twitter | Instagram
Brady Tutton:           Twitter | Instagram

 

To learn more about the legendary Queen Mary, click HERE

Ring in the Festive Holiday Season at Universal Studios Hollywood

All-New “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter”
and the Heartwarming Return of “Grinchmas”

Universal CityWalk also Celebrates the Holidays with
Special Appearances by Saint Nick and Free Outdoor Concerts 

It’s the most wonderful time of the year at The Entertainment Capital of L.A. as Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal CityWalk deck the halls for a wintry calendar of festive holiday experiences and an array of delectable treats that families and friends far and wide can enjoy.

The all-new “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” experience will resonate throughout the immersive land this yuletide season transforming the iconic HogwartsTM castle into a dazzling light projection spectacular, while the quaint town of Hogsmeade village shines brightly with décor uniquely themed to each of the individual storefronts.

The a cappella Frog Choir, comprised of Hogwarts students and their giant throaty frogs, will perform all-new holiday themed songs.

A wide selection of all-new custom-made Christmas ornaments created especially for “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” will also debut this season.

Collectibles include a variety of decorative Hogwarts castle snow globes, Hogwarts crest and mascot ornaments representing each of the houses, as well as a collection of unique tree toppers and house pennant garland.Newly introduced holiday-themed fare and the eagerly-awaited seasonal return of hot Butterbeer will further complement the overall experience.

“Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” will take place daily from November 24, 2017 through January 7, 2018.

The all-new “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” experienceinvites guests to celebrate this special time of year in J.K. Rowling’s compelling Wizarding World for themselves.

As night falls on Hogsmeade village, “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” will illuminate Hogwarts™ School of Witchcraft and Wizardry with colorful imagery and impressive dimensional animations that dance across Hogwarts castle in tandem to a musical arrangement from the Harry Potter movies.

“Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” represents the immersive land’s first holiday themed program since opening at Universal Studios Hollywood in 2016.

Grinchmas™” returns to Universal Studios Hollywood with a Who-lebration of fun fit forThe Grinch, his faithful dog Max and a roster of Who-ville Whos.

The annual event comes to life with a towering 60 foot tall whimsical “Grinchmas” tree where Martha May Who-vier and the Who Dolls will take center stage performing energetic musical sets to usher in the Christmas season in style.
The Who-liday Singers—a hip boy-band ensemble—will perform nightly a cappella concerts featuring a mix of Christmas favorites and pop rock.“Grinchmas” will take place weekends on December 2-3 and 9-10, and daily from December 15 through December 31.

Spirited holiday décor and festive whimsy will permeate throughout the theme park including “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and the adjoining “Super Silly Fun Land” as a crew of very merry and mischievous Minions gleefully spread Christmas cheer to visitors of all ages.

A spectacular 40-foot tall Christmas tree will glisten with 200,000 LED icicles choreographed to the lights and sounds of the season in the 5 Towers plaza.

Santa Claus will make nightly appearances and offer special photo opportunities at 5 Towers.The iconic, dancing water fountain situated at the heart of CityWalk will also make a splash this holiday season.

This visually dynamic fountain, displaying over 230 individual power jets, will project streams of choreographed water into the aircomplemented by red and green LED lights and an array of holiday-themed music.Free concert performances at “5 Towers” and an eclectic ensemble of talented street performers will make CityWalk the ultimate L.A. holiday destination.

The spirit of the season continues with a wintertime transformation of Universal CityWalk, beginning the day after Thanksgiving on November 24 through December 23,2017.

The holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood is included in the price of theme park admission.

More information is available at UniversalStudiosHollywood.com.
Like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and Twitter.Admission to Universal CityWalk is free. More information available at CityWalkHollywood.com

A similar holiday program will also take place at Universal Orlando Resort.

About Warner Bros. Entertainment:

Warner Bros. Entertainment is a global leader in all forms of entertainment and their related businesses across all current and emerging media and platforms. A Time Warner Company, the fully integrated, broad-based studio is home to one of the most successful collections of brands in the world and stands at the forefront of every aspect of the entertainment industry from feature film, television and home entertainment production and worldwide distribution to DVD, digital distribution, animation, comic books, video games, product, and brand licensing, international cinemas and broadcasting.About Dr. Seuss:

Theodor “Seuss” Geisel is quite simply the most beloved children’s book author of all time. Winner of the Pulitzer Prize in 1984, an Academy Award, three Emmy Awards, three Grammy Awards, and three Caldecott Honors, Geisel wrote and illustrated 45 books for children. Hundreds of millions of copies have found their way into homes and hearts around the world. While Theodor Geisel died on September 24, 1991, Dr. Seuss lives on, inspiring generations of children of all ages to explore the joys of reading.About Universal Studios Hollywood is The Entertainment Capital of L.A. and includes a full-day, movie-based theme park and Studio Tour. As a leading global entertainment destination, Universal Studios Hollywood delivers highly themed immersive lands that translate to real-life interpretations of iconic movie and television shows. Recent additions include “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter ™” which features a bustling Hogsmeade village and such critically-acclaimed rides as “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” and “Flight of the Hippogriff™,” Universal Studios Hollywood’s first outdoor rollercoaster. Other immersive lands include “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and “Super Silly Fun Land” as well as “Springfield,” hometown of America’s favorite TV family, located adjacent to the award-winning “The Simpsons RideTM” and the “The Walking Dead” daytime attraction. The world-renowned Studio Tour is Universal Studios Hollywood’s signature attraction, inviting guests behind-the-scenes of the world’s biggest and busiest movie and television studio where they can also experience such authentic and immersive thrill rides as “Fast & Furious—Supercharged.” The adjacent Universal CityWalk entertainment, shopping and dining complex also includes the all-new multi-million dollar, redesigned Universal CityWalk Cinema, featuring deluxe recliner seating in screening room quality theatres, and the “5 Towers” state-of-the-art outdoor concert stage.

@Thisfunktional Podcast – Hollywood Events – Pre-Awards DPA GIFTING LOUNGE

Written by Jesus Figueroa (@Thisfunktional)

@Thisfunktional attended the Pre-Awards DPA Gifting Lounge where brands and vendors attended to showcase their products and services. Check out some of the brands and vendors which caught @Thisfunktional’s attention. Photos of most products, vendors and brands can be found below.

The Pre-Awards DPA Gifting Lounge is one of the most prestigious gifting suites.

Awards season brings many celebrities together to celebrate the best in television, movies and music.

Many brands and vendors come to gifting suites to try and catch the attention of guest, nominees and celebrities.

Charities like Save The Children, SaveTheChildren.org,  attend to try and bring awareness to worthwhile causes.

Save The Children provides shelter, supplies and support to children who go through crisis by providing assistance, shelter, aid and educational materials.

Jordyn Linsk Machotka, Director of media relations and communication for Save the Children, attended to talk about the efforts Save The Children is making to help children affected by the recent hurricanes and talking about the volunteers and the services they are providing to help children and family get back to their normal lives.

Designer Marie Webb of Lemonade Stand Designs, LemonadeStandDesigns.com, showcased some amazing, colorful silk dresses and fashion accessories.

A representative talked about Webb stating off as a traditional artist drawing on large paper and eventually wanting to wear her art.

Having down syndrome, Webb uses her talent to convey beauty through fine art and fashion design.

For the tech person and anyone who works off their laptop while on the go and has a hard time finding enough space to work, the A-Stand, a-stand.com, helps provide another layer of space while traveling.

A-Stand creator Norman Korti said that he had the idea for the stand while he was flying to New York and couldn’t concentrate on writing while on the flight because of the limited space he had.

After a seven year journey, the A-stand is available throughout their website and Amazon.com.

Honey Hive Soaps, thehoneyhivesoaps.com,  a natural alternative to skin care showed their amazing smelling natural soaps that are cruelty-free.

Honey Hive Soaps creator Alessandra said she started off making natural soaps for herself because she couldn’t believe all the chemicals which soaps and skin care products contain. She quit her job a year ago and started to make natural soaps and skin care products, all which are made from her house in Connecticut.

For the foodies, there were plenty of foods and drink available, such as Organic Bareburger, who also serve the Impossible burger which taste like meat and has the same consistency of meat but is made entirely of vegetables, High Brew which has protein cold brew coffee drink.

Red’s Cheesecakes, redscheesecakes.com, which has some delicious tasting, as well ascetically pleasing, cheesecakes.

Located in Redondo Beach, one taste will have people being return customers to try more and more different cheesecakes.

This years brands, vendors and charities included:

Save the children
Lemonade Stand Designs
A-Stand
They&Them
Red’s Cheesecakes
Organic Bareburger
Honey Hive
Wolf Connection
Kye’s
High Brew Coffee
Viva Pops
Truth in Hand
Bodvar
Revel
Tahiti BioRoche
Sand Jewelry
Amy DiGregorio
BowHausNYC
SPLASH
Linger
Inner Sunrise

and many more.

Check out some of the photos for the products below: (Photos by Jose Angel Torres)
https://flickrembed.com/cms_embed.php?source=flickr&layout=responsive&input=72157686493305160&sort=2&by=album&theme=compact_right&scale=fit&limit=37&skin=default&autoplay=true

Follow and interact with Jesus:

Twitter – @Thisfunktional

Instagram – @Thisfunktional

Facebook – ThisfunktionalLA

Tumblr – Thisfunktional

AudioBoom – Thisfunktional

YouTube – Thisfunktional

Come Send DRINKIN’, SMOKIN’ and WEST COASTIN’ Off In A 90s Style

Come Send DRINKIN’, SMOKIN’ and WEST COASTIN’ Off In A 90s Style

Written by Jesus Figueroa (@Thisfunktional)

“Drinkin’, Smokin’ and West Coastin'” is coming to an end, but not before throwing a grand party sponsored by Playboy.

“It’s been a crazy month. Our opening night was huge, almost 4,000 people came, because I think people were stoked that we were back in DTLA again,” Curator Jacob Patterson said. “The nightly events have been varied. Some have been packed, and others have been more intimate. I think we had a very diverse range of programming and people came to multiple events; the best ones where events where new producers walked into our space and brought their own unique audiences, like SELFISH and Cannabis Cabaret.”

Join Playboy and Think Tank Gallery for their “Hidden Arcade 90s Edition,” purchase tickets here.

Artist from around the world displayed artwork which represented the best of Los Angeles.

The support from fans getting the word out helped propel this event into the success it became.

“What was the most special was the sheer amount of support. From people sharing it, to people like the Bloody Gums Collective helping build it, to the people buying tickets and merch just because they know it helps out. We had given up on this show and pretty much given up on the Think Tank after the Ghost Ship Fire, and it was fans and helpers (and sponsors) that picked us up and pulled us across the finish line,” Patterson said. “We’re excited to party with all of them on Saturday (Sept. 23) at our closing party with Playboy.”

Even with the event coming to a close the success gives Patterson hope of another “Drinkin’, Smoking’ and West Coastin'” exhibit to sprout up or travel around so others can experience the exhibit and events.

“Drinkin’ Smokin’ & West Coastin’ – Hyphy Edition. Oakland 2018. Any takers?” Patterson said.

Already in the works is a new show which has already been a big hit at the Bay area, thatdickpicshow.com/.

With the help of Patterson it now comes to LA.

“We have a really killer feminist show in the beginning of October by an artist named Kidd Bell,” Patterson said. “She has been collecting unsolicited dick pics that dudes have sent her and other women without permission, and then she hangs them up in a gallery and tells the guys that their unwanted images are now art. It’s a hilarious protest, and super clever.”

Support from the community helps bring unique exhibits to Los Angeles as well as the events which are produced in conjunction with it.

There’s so many artists which struggle to have a place to showcase their talent and places like the Think Tank Gallery make it possible to bring in artists both locally and internationally.

“It’s truly been wild to watch the range of programming. Every night has looked completely different in here. From events that use the ShowGrow 420 Lounge as a smoking lounge, to events that take over the whole space with cannabis sampling, to events that use only the DMV Dive Bar that we built and the main gallery is open to the public… it’s been super varied,” Patterson said. “The malleable nature of the space has been what has most interesting me. It’s been a lot of work but the show has taken on a new life almost every single night and that’s a testament to visionary producers taking what we’ve built, respecting our artists and then making it their own.”

Purchase tickets for “Playboy’s Hidden Arcade 90s Edition” at playboythinktank.eventbrite.com.

Latino Creatives Make a Strong Case for Media Inclusion at the 2017 Latino Media Fest

The National Association of Latino Independent Producers’ (NALIP) Latino Media Fest is the unique presenter of the best U.S. Latino content across all media platforms: narrative short films, TV/streaming pilots, digital content, virtual reality, augmented reality and documentary shorts.

The 2017 NALIP Latino Media Fest will take place at the AMC Century City 15 on September 26-27.
The first annual Latino Media Fest is presented by Comcast NBCUniversal Telemundo and additionally sponsored by FOX Inclusion, MPAA, Labo Digital, El Rey Network and venue sponsor AMC Independent.Throughout the two-day event, NALIP will present a diverse schedule of panels, workshops, screenings, showcases and more.

Highlights include:

  • Shorts Screening Program A (Tuesday, September 26) – 2017 Official Selection Program A for the Latino Media Fest will showcase the following films:
    • Victor & Isolina, William D. Caballero
    • Desde el Principio, Miguel J. Soliman
    • The Spirit was Gone, Cristian Proa
    • The Melancholy Man, Samantha Smith
    • Hijo por Hijo, Juan Avella
    • Wonderland, Ignacio Garcia-Bustelo
  • Estrella, Brandon Arroyo
  • Special Screening (Tuesday, September 26) – An advance screening of NBC’s hit series, Superstore will be showcased at the Latino Media Fest and a panel with Superstore writers Sierra Ornelas​ and Vanessa​ ​Ramos.​
  • Shorts Screening Program B (Wednesday, September 27) – 2017 Official Selection Program B for the Latino Media Fest will showcase the following films:
    • Jimbo, Rodrigo Zanforlin
    • Parallax Effect: Abduction, Davy Perez
    • Welcome Back, Matias Nilsson
    • Paloma, Maia Nikiphoroff and Jean Lee
  • Animation Master Class (Wednesday, September 27) – Jorge R. Gutiérrez will be taking part in NALIP’s Animation Master Class. He will discuss the specifics of making animated features and the process of telling unique stories that are relatable to global audiences. Gutiérrez has worked on Book of Life, El Tigre: The Adventures of Manny Rivera and his upcoming short VR film, Son of Jaguar.
  • The 2017 Latino Media Fest Awards (Wednesday, September 27) – The awardees that were voted in the four award categories will be recognized for their work behind the camera.
    • Best LatinX Film awarded to Beatriz at Dinner, received by Miguel Arteta, director of the film
    • Best LatinX Filmmaker awarded to director, writer and editor José María Cabral, for his film Woodpeckers
    • Best Latin American Film awarded to Lemon, received by Janicza Bravo, director and writer of the film
    • Best Latin American FIlmmaker awarded to director and writer Amat Escalante, for his film The Untamed

“NALIP has been more ambitious this year in actively changing the conversation in the industry and advocating for a truly diverse and inclusive media landscape,” Executive Director, Ben Lopez said.

The NALIP Latino Media Fest attracts Latino content creators, industry executives and media from around the globe for invaluable learning and networking opportunities. Passes to the Latino Media Fest can be purchased at latinomediafest.com.

Universal Studios Hollywood’s All-New College Thursdays Terror Pass

 

Universal Studios Hollywood’s All-New College Thursdays Terror Pass Gives College Students, Faculty and Staff Unlimited Access to “Halloween Horror Nights” Every Thursday Night for One Admission Price

 

Click Here for a Terrifying Look at this Year’s Maze Lineup

 

And Here to Purchase the College Thursdays Terror Pass

Universal Studios Hollywood offers college students, faculty and staff a crash course in “Halloween Horror Nights” with the debut of its all-new College Thursdays Terror Pass inviting this group of academics to purchase this exclusive ticket to visit and revisit every Thursday night throughout the run of the event.

“Halloween Horror Nights” kicks off on September 15 and continues on select nights through November 4.​Students, faculty and staff must possess a .edu email address to be eligible to purchase the special college ticket, which is available at ushtix.com/collegediscounts.

Advance purchases are recommended as these coveted passes will sell out.
 College Thursdays Terror Pass can be used on the following “Halloween Horror Nights”: Thursday, September 28; Thursday, October 5, 12, 19, 26 and Thursday, November 2.​Additional tickets to the “Halloween Horror Nights” special event as well as tickets to visit Universal Studios Hollywood by day, can also be purchased through the site.

​”Halloween Horror Nights” at Universal Studios Hollywood brings together the sickest minds in horror to immerse guests in a living, breathing, three-dimensional world of terror.

Featuring an all-new slate of unrivaled film production quality mazes, frightful scare zones and a re-imagined “Terror Tram” uniquely themed to today’s most definitive horror properties, “Halloween Horror Nights” will taunt, terrorize and torment guests with spine-chilling haunted attractions as part of Southern California’s most extreme Halloween experience.The following highlights this year’s terrifying line-up:

  • The Shining, inspired by the iconic psychological thriller.
  • American Horror Story: Roanoke, based on FX’s critically-acclaimed, Emmy® and Golden Globe® Award-winning television series.
  • The Horrors of Blumhouse brings to life prolific filmmaker Jason Blum’s signature movies into one terrifying maze: the upcoming Happy Death Day, The Purgeand Sinister.
  • Insidious: Beyond the Further, inspired by Universal Pictures and Sony Picture’s upcoming supernatural thriller, Insidious: The Last Key.
  • Ash vs. Evil Dead, based on Starz’s comedy horror television series.
  • SAW: The Games of Jigsaw, based on the film series and the upcoming series installment, Saw: The Games of Jigsaw.
  • Titans of Terror, which unites slasher film villains, Freddy Krueger, Jason Voorhees and Leatherface.
  • Titans of Terror Tram: Hosted by Chucky, will transport guests into a nightmare of carnage pitting guests against these four horror icons—Freddy Krueger, Jason Voorhees and Leatherface—led by infamous serial killer doll Chucky on the world-famous studio backlot.
  • The Walking Dead, Universal Studios Hollywood new permanent attraction inspired by AMC’s record-breaking television series.
  • The Jabbawockeez award-winning hip hop dance crew return by popular demand.

For exciting updates and exclusive “Halloween Horror Nights” content, visit HalloweenHorrorNights.com/Hollywood, like Halloween Horror Nights – Hollywood on Facebook; follow @HorrorNights #UniversalHHN on Instagram, Twitter and Snapchat; and watch the terror come to life on Halloween Horror Nights YouTube.

THE HORRORS OF BLUMHOUSE Takes Possession of Universal Studios’ HALLOWEEN HORROR NIGHTS

Two New Mazes Inspired by Acclaimed Contemporary Horror Producer Jason Blum’s Blockbuster Movies
The Purge, Sinister and Happy Death Day Featured at Universal Studios Hollywood

Insidious, Sinister and The Purge Featured at Universal Orlando Resort

Click HERE to Unlock the Horrors and HERE to Purchase Tickets

 

The-Horrors-of-Blumhouse---HHN-at-USH-Key-Art-(logo)Jason Blum, one of today’s most prolific producers of contemporary horror films, brings his signature movies to life in the uniquely distinctive “The Horrors of Blumhouse” maze at this year’s “Halloween Horror Nights” event at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort, beginning September 15.

Based on “The Purge,” “Sinister and “Insidious” franchises, as well as the upcoming thriller “Happy Death Day,” Blumhouse Productions (Split, Get Out, Whiplash ), is teaming with the creative minds behind the nation’s most intense and immersive Halloween event to unleash three twisted Blumhouse films in one bone-chilling experience at each Halloween destination.

At Universal Studios Hollywood, legions of terrified guests will come face-to-face with the most iconic and unnerving moments from the blockbuster “The Purge” franchise, “Sinister” movies and soon-to-be released “Happy Death Day.”

In “The Purge,” guests will attempt to survive the night as they are immersed in the film’s depraved world, where all crime is declared legal as part of the government’s annually sanctioned 12-hour Purge.

In what can be described as a living trailer for “Happy Death Day,” guests will experience a deja-vu scenario as they are forced to relive the last day of their lives over and over again in an attempt to escape a masked killer.

The final nightmare will unmask itself in “Sinister,” where guests will encounter an ancient pagan deity who is determined to trap them in the sordid shadow world of the dead…for all eternity.

“It’s a privilege to collaborate with Jason Blum and his team at Blumhouse Productions to create ‘The Horrors of Blumhouse,’” John Murdy, Creative Director at Universal Studios Hollywood and Executive Producer of “Halloween Horror Nights.” said. “The decisive, inventive way in which he interprets underlying issues plaguing today’s society into his films provides us with a plethora of content to create truly captivating, one-of-a-kind modern horror experiences for our guests.”

Upon entering “The Horrors of Blumhouse” maze at Universal Orlando Resort, guests will attempt to survive three of the most menacing anthologies in the Blumhouse assemblage.

First, guests will face the horror of becoming stars in the next home murder movie of the menacing demon Bughuul, from the infamous “Sinister” franchise.

Then, they’ll run for their lives to escape the gang of bloodthirsty home invaders from the first installment of “The Purge” saga.

Finally, guests will be thrust into the Further from the “Insidious” legend, where they’ll come face-to-face with the paralyzing Lipstick-Face Demon from Chapter 1 and witness Dr. Elise Rainier’s own personal hauntings from her nightmarish childhood in a first-look at “Insidious: Chapter 4” – in theaters Jan. 5, 2018.

“We’re thrilled to bring the terrifying vision of Jason Blum and the Blumhouse Productions team to life on an even grander scale at Halloween Horror Nights 2017,” Charles Gray, Show Director for Creative Development, Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando Resort, said. “He is the modern voice of horror,whose films run the gamut of intense, in-your-face terror – and this year, we’re taking our guests deeper into the horrific world of Blumhouse than ever before.”

“We are so excited to expand our collaboration with the terrific creative team at ‘Halloween Horror Nights’ this year,” Blum said. “With ‘The Horrors of Blumhouse’ maze, people will be able to fully immerse themselves into the cinematic worlds of our most terrifying films – with bone-chilling results.”

Universal Studios’ “Halloween Horror Nights” is the ultimate Halloween event.

For more than 20 years,guests from around the world have visited Halloween Horror Nights in Hollywood and Orlando to become victims inside their own horror film.

The streets of each coast’s event are transformed into highly-themed scare zones where menacing “scare-actors” lunge from every darkened corner.

Multiple movie-quality haunted houses are erected throughout the event, based on everything from iconic slasher films to hit horror television series to haunting original stories.

Additional details about Universal Studios’ “Halloween Horror Nights” will be revealed soon.

For more information about Halloween Horror Nights at either Universal Studios Hollywood or Universal Orlando Resort, visit HalloweenHorrorNights.com.

Universal Studios Hollywood Unleashes INSIDIOUS: BEYOND THE FURTHER

All-New Terrifying “Halloween Horror Nights” Maze and Living Trailer

for Universal Pictures and Sony Pictures’ Stage 6 Films “Insidious: Chapter 4”

Click Here to “Further” Experience the Horror that Awaits,
Beginning Sept. 15

Insidious---HHN-at-USH-Key-Art-(logo)Beginning Sept. 15, paranormal activity grips “Halloween Horror Nights” at Universal Studios Hollywood in the all-new disturbing maze, “Insidious: Beyond the Further,” inspired Universal Pictures and Sony Pictures’ Stage 6 Films upcoming supernatural thriller “Insidious: Chapter 4.”

The creepy new maze will delve deep into brilliant parapsychologist Dr. Elise Rainier’s past, starting with a childhood in which her paranormal abilities emerged…until her mother’s untimely death by a demonic entity.

Troubled by a lifetime of evil supernatural spirits trapped in the Further—a vacuous netherworld caught between the living and the dead—Dr. Rainier will take guests on an unsettling journey back in time through a portal into the Further…to defy the most depraved and intimidating beings that have tormented her since the 1950s.​Opening in theatres nationwide on Jan. 5, 2018, “Insidious: Chapter 4″ is a Blumhouse Production, Oren Peli Production distributed by Universal Pictures domestically and Sony Pictures’ Stage 6 Films internationally.

Directed by series newcomer Adam Robitel, the supernatural thriller is written by co-creator Leigh Whannell and produced by Insidious series regulars Jason Blum, Oren Peli and co-creator James Wan.

The film stars Lin Shaye as Dr. Rainier, who faces her most fearsome and personal haunting yet: in her own family home.​”Halloween Horror Nights” at Universal Studios Hollywood brings together the sickest minds in horror to immerse guests in a living, breathing, three-dimensional world of terror.

Featuring an all-new slate of unrivaled film production quality mazes, frightful scare zones and a fully re-imagined “Terror Tram” experience uniquely themed to today’s most definitive horror properties, “Halloween Horror Nights” will taunt, terrorize and torment guests with spine-chilling haunted attractions as part of Southern California’s most extreme Halloween experience.​To date, “Halloween Horror Nights” will also feature the following mazes: “American Horror Story: Roanoke,” based on FX’s critically-acclaimed, Emmy® and Golden Globe® Award-winning television series; “The Shining,” inspired by the greatest horror film of all time; and “Ash vs Evil Dead” from the hit cable series based on the cult classic.

​Updates on “Halloween Horror Nights” at Universal Studios Hollywood are available online at HalloweenHorrorNights.com/Hollywood and on Facebook at: “Halloween Horror Nights – Hollywood,” Instagram, Snapchat and Twitter at @HorrorNights as Creative Director John Murdy reveals a running chronicle of exclusive information. Watch videos on Halloween Horror Nights YouTube and join the conversation using #UniversalHHN.

Eli Roth Takes Commercial for Nation’s Best Halloween Event to New, Cinematic Level

Acclaimed Filmmaker Eli Roth Makes His Commercial Directorial Debut for Universal Studios’ 
“Halloween Horror Nights” 2017 Bi-Coastal TV Commercial

This year, filmmaker Eli Roth – acclaimed director of blockbuster horror films such as “Hostel” and “Cabin Fever” – makes his commercial directorial debut with Universal Studios’ new “Halloween Horror Nights” television spot, entitled “The Mourning After.”

“Halloween Horror Nights” kicks off at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort on Sept. 15.

The commercial begins airing after the Labor Day weekend and can be seen here. A behind-the-scenes making of and extended Director’s Cut version can be viewed here.With Roth’s creative direction and filmmaking expertise, the compelling 30-second commercial becomes one of the most cinematic, horror-film-inspired, “Halloween Horror Nights” commercials ever created.  

“The Mourning After” spot follows a group of friends as they attend an unusual Halloween costume party and unfolds with a series of suspenseful twists and turns that begs for more.Viewers will see an array of hidden references woven throughout the spot that pay tribute to the horror films and television-themed mazes guests will encounter at this year’s “Halloween Horror Nights” events.  

These include FX’s critically-acclaimed, Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning television series “American Horror Story,” Stanley Kubrick’s psychological horror film The Shining and the upcoming “SAW: The Games of Jigsaw” movie.Roth is a long-time fan of “Halloween Horror Nights” and has previously served as a creative consultant for the event, including a Hostel-inspired maze.

He said the commercial gave him the opportunity to combine a love of horror films with how those films are brought to life within “Halloween Horror Nights.”

HHN2017-TVSPOT-BTS_1“I first got involved with ‘Halloween Horror Nights’ as a fan – I felt that I was in a horror movie and I didn’t want it to end,” Roth said. “For this spot, I wanted to pay homage to these brilliant and scary films, and yet put my own spin on it.”

Universal Studios’ “Halloween Horror Nights” is the ultimate Halloween event.

For more than 20 years, guests from around the world have visited Halloween Horror Nights in Hollywood and Orlando to become victims inside their own horror film.

The streets of each coast’s event are transformed into highly-themed scare zones where menacing “scare-actors” lunge from every darkened corner.

Multiple movie-quality haunted houses are erected throughout the event, based on everything from iconic slasher films to hit horror television series to haunting original stories.For more information and to purchase tickets to “Halloween Horror Nights” at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort, visit HalloweenHorrorNights.com.

@Thisfunktional, @JessicaCameron_ at the IT Experience Neibolt House Hollywood

Written by Jesus Figueroa (@Thisfunktional)

Built in seven days, three days without the foundation, the IT Experience Neibolt House Hollywood puts IT fans into the scary movie experience fitting of the movie.

it-neiboltGetting to take have the experience with scream queen actress Jessica Cameron made the entire thing that much better.

Take a look at the short walkthrough of Neibolt House and the scares which reside inside the house on the corner of Hollywood and Vine.

Make sure to like the video, subscribe to Jessica Cameron: Inside My Indie life for more awesome How To videos and small peeks into an indie horror actress’ life.

LA people, check out the feature post on the right side bar of Thisfunktional.com, or click here, for your chance to get some advance screening passes.

Check out more on the IT Experience at ThatsWhereITLives.com.

IT
Opens in Theaters Sept. 8
Follow and interact with Jesus:
Twitter – @Thisfunktional
Instagram – @Thisfunktional
Facebook – ThisfunktionalLA
Tumblr – Thisfunktional
AudioBoom – Thisfunktional
YouTube – Thisfunktional


Follow and interact with Jessica Cameron:
Twitter – @JessicaCameron_
Twitter – @ScreamQStream
Instagram – @ActressJessicaCameron
Facebook – ActressJessicaCameron
Facebook – ScreamQueenStream

Actress Kate Tumanova gets Surprised by the Fan Support at ScareLA

Written by Jesus Figueroa (@Thisfunktional)

“American Exorcism” lead actress Kate Tumanova attended ScareLA in support of the DVD and RedBox release of the film.

Tumanova is a fresh face to the horror genre, but fans came out in support of the talented actress and were able to meet and greet as well as get an autograph poster or a #KateTumanova shirt.

“It was a great experience and I am very happy to be related to that community through my horror film ‘American Exorcism,'” Tumanova said.

For two hours Tumanova met with fans and talked to press.

Tumanova is proud of her role as Caroline as a teenager in “American Exorcism.” The teenage Caroline character has gone through some turmoil and through the film has some teenage angst that may be fueled by a possession.

This having been her first year at ScareLA Tumanova said, “I love how people are so passionate about a certain genre and all get together and have so much fun. I would love to be back next year. Everyone was so fun and people were very interested to hear about my film.”

“American Exorcism” is out now on DVD and RedBox.

Tumanova will be coming back to the horror genre once again, landing another lead role in an upcoming horror film which is now in production.

Tumanova said, “I am so excited to shoot another project and, since it perfectly fits the Scare LA set up, I will do everything I can to promote it next year.”

@Thisfunktional talks with Tanya Mordacci SHORT + SWEET HOLLYWOOD LATINO

@Thisfunktional talks with Tanya Mordacci SHORT + SWEET HOLLYWOOD LATINO

Written by Jesus Figueroa (@Thisfunktional)

Festival director Tanya Mordacci talks to Jesus Figueroa, @Thisfunktional of Thisfunktional.com, about the debut of “Short + Sweet Hollywood Latino!” The festival of short plays runs August 10 through August 13.

Mordacci discusses the wide variety of the topics that the plays deal with, being new to directing and organizing the festival and brings a surprise along for the interview.

“Short+Sweet,” the biggest, short-play festival in the world will present its first “Short+Sweet Hollywood Latino!” edition as part of the “Short+Sweet Hollywood 2017” season on August 10-13 at the Stella Adler Theater (6773 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028), with Bruno Bichir as its godfather.

The festival will include 13 10-minute plays in Spanish, English and of course, Spanglish that will range in topics, such as faith, immigration, infidelity, murder, treason, jugglers, hookers, luchadores and politics.

The main goal for “Short+Sweet Hollywood Latino!” is to provide a much-needed forum for expression for Latino talent, including Hansel Ramirez, Elena Rojas, Fernanda Kelly, Orlette Ruiz among many other film, TV and theater actors, writers and directors.

Recognizing the endeavor’s importance many celebrity guests will be attending to lend their support.

The program will be divided into two groups, ‘A’ and ‘B’ each day and will alternate order.

Grupo B:
  • Ramera
  • Cuerda
  • Blind Faith
  • The Man at the Next Table
  • El Vago
  • 10 Dollars for a Peso
Grupo A:
  • Inside Sex
  • Todo por un Shampoo
  • Cariño, ya que estás de pie
  • Gram
  • Aprender a Caer
  • Therapy
  • La Nube

The festival’s schedule will go as follows:

  • August 10: 7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. (Group A, followed by Group B)
  • August 11: 7:30 p.m. -9:15 p.m. (Group B, followed by group A)
  • August 12: 7:30 p.m.-9:15 p.m. (Group A, followed by group B)
  • August 13: 7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. (Group B, followed by group A)

“’Short+Sweet Hollywood LATINO!’ is fantastic, because it is the first short-play Latino festival being presented in L.A, a culturally-rich and talent-filled city. It will provide a forum for Latino expression and a space where all can melt together, while building a sense of belonging,” festival director Tanya Mordacci said.

Dates for the entire festival have been announced and tickets are available now for purchase.
To keep up with latest news, follow the festival on its official Facebook Fan Page.

@Thisfunktional Attends ScareLA 2017, ScareLA Thrills with Halloween Fun in Summer

@Thisfunktional Attends ScareLA 2017, ScareLA Thrills with Halloween Fun in Summer

Written by Jesus Figueroa (@Thisfunktional)

ScareLA provided an exciting weekend of Halloween fun for the entire family with magnificent virtual reality attractions, theme park announcements for Halloween and many vendors to start the Halloween shopping.

The Los Angeles City Council officially proclaimed Aug. 4 as ScareLA, concreting LAs premier Halloween convention’s connection with LA.

From the year one, ScareLA attracted Halloween enthusiast to The Reef/LA Mart in 2013 and steadily gained steam.

Now in it’s fifth year, ScareLA opened its doors at the Los Angeles Convention Center making this milestone year the largest space for the con.

ScareLA Founder and Creator Lora Ivanova opened the convention on Aug. 5 by ripping through a caution tape ribbon with help from some eager zombies wanting to get things started.

One of the biggest highlights of the convention, John Murdy, Creative director for Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios, Hollywood, talking about this years big mazes, which include “The Shining,” American Horror Story: Roanoke” and “Ash Vs. Evil Dead,” as well as announcing for the first time the “Titans of Terror” and “Titans of Terror Tram.”

The terror tram at Universal Studios Hollywood will include Freddy Kruger from “Nightmare on Elm Street,” Jason Vorhees from “Friday the 13th,” Michael Meyers from “Halloween” and be hosted by Chucky from “Child’s Play.”

This year’s SCARYWOOD housed some of the most incredible VR experiences, augmented reality and stage performances.

Freakshow Deluxe at the Dark Stage at SCARYWOOD attracted a large crowd as there were sword swallowers and contortionists, as well as audience members stapling tips onto a performer.

Gray Oddities Doll

Dark art and customized Horror dolls from Gray Oddities, check out some artwork at facebook.com/GrayOddities or instagram.com/Gray_Oddities, attracted some attention with some creepy yet cute and amazing dolls. The dolls are all hand crafter, some creatively created from the imagination and some made inspired by classic horror creatures. Special custom request are accepted with flexible payment plans.

The Dark Divas panel brought six talented horror industry females to the main stage. Actress and producer Jessica Cameron lead the panel which included writer Helen Shang, actress Naomi Grossman, actress Kristina Klebe, actress Emma Bell and actress Bel Deliá. They each talked about the path each has taken in their careers in the horror industry.

Family-friendly, and creative, arts and crafts and educational classes were popular with activities such as making Wonder Woman gauntlets were fun and enjoyable for attendees of all ages. Some arts and crafts had an extra fee for material, but were worth the cost.

Some of the talented people at the con meeting with fans, taking pictures and signing autographs included “The World of Aluna” co-creator Paula Garces, actor Juan Gabriel Pareja, actress Kate Tumnova, “The Walking Dead” Tell Tale video game voice actor Dave Fennoy and “Shameless” New Fiona actress Mary Kennedy.

Rocking the Dark Stage, “Rocky Horror Dance-a-long” got people up and dancing in the spooky SCARYWOOD.

ScareLA 2017 ended and left many looking forward for Halloween and a ScareLA 2018, fans can only hope until the next convention is confirmed.

For more information:

Halloween Horror Nights Tickets on Sale, Presentation at ScareLA

Written by Jesus Figueroa (@Thisfunktional)

Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights tickets go on sale now and on Aug 5 the powerhouse team behind HHN John Murdy and Chris Williams will reveal some of the details for this year’s attractions.

Along with the details of this year’s HHN the team will reveal a special surprise for ScareLA fans.

Tickets are on Sale for “Halloween Horror Nights” at Universal Studios Hollywood Including its All-New R.I.P. Tour, Featuring VIP Guided Access, Gourmet Buffet Dinner, 
Valet Parking and Unlimited Front-of-Line Privileges
Featuring More Mazes than Ever, “Halloween Horror Nights” Begins on Sept. 15 and Continues on Select Nights through Nov. 4 Click Here for a Sneak Peek at the Horror that Awaits
and Here to Purchase Tickets

Tickets are now on sale for “Halloween Horror Nights” at Universal Studios Hollywood, Southern California’s most extreme and intensely immersiveHalloween event, which kicks off on Sept. 15 and continues on select nights through Nov. 4.

Tickets can be purchased at HalloweenHorrorNights.com/Hollywood, and advance purchase is recommended as event nights will sell out for all ticket options, including the all-new R.I.P. Tour, the After 2 p.m. Day/Night Combo Ticket, the Frequent Fear Pass, and must-have Front-of-Line ticket.

​The new R.I.P. Tour invites guests in groups of up to 14 to scare in style with an exclusive VIP guide that also includes unlimited front-of-line privileges to all mazes and attractions, as well as a gourmet buffet dinner, drinks and valet parking.

​Guests electing to purchase the After 2 p.m. Day/Night Combo Ticket can enjoy the park’s popular daytime attractions such as “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter,” “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and “Fast and Furious—Supercharged” on the world-famous Studio Tour by day, then step into the mazes and attractions located throughout the park to experience the terror of “Halloween Horror Nights” for one admission price.

​The ever popular Frequent Fear Pass allows fans, who just can’t get enough of “Halloween Horror Nights,” to visit multiple times throughout the run of the event.

The in-demand Front-of-Line ticket to “Halloween Horror Nights” is also available enabling guests to enjoy one-time priority access to all the mazes, attractions, the all-new Terror Tramexperience and new Jabbawockeez hip hop dance performance.

This year, “Halloween Horror Nights” features more mazes than ever, and with 29 terrifying event nights from which to choose, the scares are limitless.

Following are event dates: Sept. 15-16, 22-23, 28-30, Oct. 1, 5-8, 12-15, 19-22, 25-29, 31 and Nov. 2-4.“Halloween Horror Nights” brings together the sickest minds in horror to immerse guests in a living, breathing, three-dimensional world of terror inspired by TV and film’s most compelling horror properties.

Following is a partial list of this year’s terrifying line-up, with more maze news to be announced soon:

  • The Shining, inspired by the iconic psychological thriller.
  • “American Horror Story: Roanoke,” based on FX’s critically-acclaimed, Emmy® and Golden Globe® Award-winning television series.
  • “ASH vs. Evil Dead,” based on Starz’s comedy horror television series.
  • “The Walking Dead,” Universal Studios Hollywood new permanent attraction inspired by AMC’s record-breaking television series.
  • The Jabbawockeez award-winning hip hop dance crew return by popular demand with an all-new, high-energy performance created exclusively for “Halloween Horror Nights.”

For exciting updates and exclusive “Halloween Horror Nights” content, visit HalloweenHorrorNights.com/Hollywood, like Halloween Horror Nights – Hollywood on Facebook; follow @HorrorNights #UniversalHHN on Instagram, Twitter and Snapchat; and watch the terror come to life on Halloween Horror Nights YouTube.

@Thisfunktional Podcast – THEATER AND ARTS – Nik Nieves MARVEL UNIVERSE LIVE! AGE OF HEROES

Written by Jesus Figueroa (@Thisfunktional)

Performer Nik Nieves talks to Jesus Figueroa, @Thisfunktional of Thisfunktional.com, about being part of “Marvel Universe Live! Age of Heroes.”

Nieves talks about the show having something for everyone, the training that the performers do and how the show has changed from the first run.

“Marvel Universe Live! Age of Heroes” premiered at the Staples Center on July 7 and made its run in Los Angeles through July 9 and now moves on to the next city in southern California. Check out this interview with some more cast members out: here.

Follow and interact with Jesus:

Twitter – @Thisfunktional

Instagram – @Thisfunktional

Facebook – ThisfunktionalLA

Tumblr – Thisfunktional

AudioBoom – Thisfunktional

YouTube – Thisfunktional