Entertainment News, Movies

DEADPOOL 2 Takes Over 7-Eleven Stores Nationwide Starting May 7th!

by KristinLeave a Comment on DEADPOOL 2 Takes Over 7-Eleven Stores Nationwide Starting May 7th!

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Just in time for DEADPOOL 2 to hit theaters, America’s favorite anti-hero is taking over 7-Eleven stores nationwide starting on May 7th. Deadpool will come to stores through a first-of-its-kind augmented reality (AR) in-store experience, movie ticket prizes, and exclusive Deadpool-themed products (chimichangas included).

Deadpool 2 7-Eleven3Deadpool and Marvel fans alike can collect or devour exclusive Deadpool-branded items that range from collectible Slurpee® cups and straws to mini and monster chimichanga’s, Monster Mutant bottled energy drinks, Mike’s Harder Watermelon Lemonade, Trolli Sour Brite Tiny Hands candy and the Funko POP! Deadpool figurine that can only be found at 7-Eleven stores.

For super-fans who want to take it to the next level: “Meet Deadpool” via the 7-Eleven mobile app. The new AR experience literally brings Deadpool into the store, engaging customers with new surprise activities each week and the chance to win prizes including movie tickets, a trip to Las Vegas and more.

By scanning the 7-Eleven app at checkout, customers can earn 7Rewards® loyalty program points and enter a contest for a chance to win prizes such as movie tickets, a trip to Las Vegas and more. But the biggest news is the in-store AR that invites Deadpool fans to engage in fun virtual activities (new ones each week) to earn 7Rewards bonus points.

While Deadpool evokes “maximum effort” to fight the bad guys in the movie, jumping into the Deadpool AR experience at 7-Eleven stores is easy. All it takes is the 7-Eleven app.

Here’s how it works:

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  1. Tap: Tap the camera icon on the home screen of the 7-Eleven app, and Deadpool appears to guide fans through the experience.
  2. Selfie: Take a selfie and watch the mad scribbler take over with his red marker.
  3. Seek: Here a zapcode, there a zapcode. Scannable codes throughout the store unlock new activities and 7Rewards bonus points. The fun changes every week so fans are invited to visit often. One never knows where Deadpool will pop up. Literally. Once unlocked, an experience can be accessed later, even after leaving the store.

That’s the augmented reality part of the DEADPOOL 2 experience. The real-life part can be found in the exclusive items at participating stores.

“Deadpool definitely left an impression at their stores,” said Zachary Eller, executive vice president of Marketing Partnerships at 20th Century Fox. “Great to see that 7-Eleven has truly embraced the ‘creative genius’ that is Deadpool with this program.”

Here is the DEADPOOL 2 product mashup:

  • Monster makes a comeback at the Slurpee machine with Mutant Red Dawn flavor. This is the first time in a decade that a Monster energy drink flavor will make a splash on the Slurpee machine. Monster Mutant Red Dawn Slurpee drinks – say that five times fast.
  • Cups! Five collectible cups, each with Deadpool striking a different pose along with a colorful comment. A different cup will be released each week and can be used for both Slurpee and Big Gulp® drinks.
  • Suck on this. Nothing completes a Monster Mutant Red Dawn Slurpee in a Deadpool cup than straws with tiny Deadpools climbing up the side.
  • Chimichangas! Deadpool says he loves saying chimichanga in multiple languages. 7-Eleven has delicious chimichangas that people will love in every language – and two sizes for all size appetites. Look for mini chimis in the hot foods case and Deadpool on the package of larger 7-Select™ Chimichangas in the cold case. Available in two varieties, chicken or steak and black bean, the 7-Select Chimichanga has a special limited time offer – two for $2.50. Regular price is $1.99.
  • Deadpool drinks. Look! He’s in the vault on bottles and cans! Monster Mutant energy drink and Mike’s Harder Watermelon Lemonade also get in on the Deadpool 2 action with limited-time packaging.
  • Tiny hands! Deadpool’s tiny hands scene in the first movie has become a gif sensation. Deadpool fans can make their own gif using Trolli Sour Brite Tiny Hands candy. Or just eat them. They’re delicious. Available exclusively at participating 7-Eleven stores. Suggested retail price is $1.99.

7-Eleven encourages fans to share their Deadpool experiences with photos on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram using the hashtag #DPx7E. Not a 7Rewards member? Customers can sign up for 7Rewards via the mobile website, 7Rewards.com, by messaging “7Rewards” to the Facebook Chatbot on Messenger, or by using a physical loyalty card. Customers can also pay via Apple Pay or Google Pay making their experience even more convenient.

DEADPOOL 2 opens nationwide May 18.

SYNOPSIS: After surviving a near fatal bovine attack, a disfigured cafeteria chef (Wade Wilson) struggles to fulfill his dream of becoming Mayberry’s hottest bartender while also learning to cope with his lost sense of taste. Searching to regain his spice for life, as well as a flux capacitor, Wade must battle ninjas, the yakuza, and a pack of sexually aggressive canines, as he journeys around the world to discover the importance of family, friendship, and flavor – finding a new taste for adventure and earning the coveted coffee mug title of World’s Best Lover.

DEADPOOL 2 Official Channels:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | #Deadpool2

Movies

BAD SAMARITAN Poses Moral Dilemma of Doing the Right thing against Self Preservation

by thisfunktionalartfreakLeave a Comment on BAD SAMARITAN Poses Moral Dilemma of Doing the Right thing against Self Preservation
BAD SAMARITAN Poses Moral Dilemma of Doing the Right thing against Self Preservation

Written by Jesus Figueroa

The title “Bad Samaritan” embodies the essence of this story and captures the contrasting nature of the main characters.

From start to end, there’s a strange feel towards the leading character Sean Falco (Robert Sheehan) and a sense of panic towards the second leading character Cale Erendreich (David Tennant).

The two characters couldn’t be more polar opposites even when they have so much in common with their willingness to go to moral gray areas to survive.

During a press conference for “Bad Samaritan” Tennant talked about researching serial killers to get into the right mindset for the role.

Even thought the background of a serial killer can inform the audience to tendencies and reasons for the abnormalities that cause the mentality of a serial killer, the story deliberately is vague with overly explaining the background and rather let’s the audiences’ minds wander to get to a conclusion for the strange behavior.

Writer Brandon Boyce said that the audience can appreciate that not everything is explained and can be creeped out by the story they make up from the bits and pieces of information that are given.

As much as the script was well written, director Dean Devlin said that having both Sheehan and Tennant as the lead actors made these characters really come to life, as well as capturing the rural setting.

The thrill of the cat and mouse game which turns and at points can make the audience confused as to who is being hunted and who is the hunter.

The entire story, the cast and the filmmakers come together fantastically to create a thrilling, thought provoking story which intensified dramatically from beginning to end.

BAD SAMARITAN
In Theaters May 4
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Music

VISTA Announces US Summer Tour, “The Bloodlust Tour”

by KristinLeave a Comment on VISTA Announces US Summer Tour, “The Bloodlust Tour”

VISTA ANNOUNCES “THE BLOODLUST TOUR”

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After an eventful 2017 for alternative rock outfit VISTA, the band has announced their first tour of 2018, “The Bloodlust Tour”. The month-long run consists of 25 dates, spanning across the US Northeast, Midwest, and South. “The Bloodlust Tour” will also feature Florida rockers Brightside as direct regional support for 8 southern dates, from 7/9 – 7/17. The band has teased that there will be new music played, an all-new set, new merch items, and a “Long Live” one year anniversary show in their hometown (Long Island, 7/19). Limited VIP packages will be made available in select cities via individual ticket link, which will be announced in the coming weeks. Since the completion of their last tour, “The Oasis Tour” in November 2017, VISTA has been in the studio with ZK Productions (Mayday Parade, Set It Off, Chapel) working on new material, although no official release timeline for new music has been announced.

An electronically-tinged alternative rock band, NY-based outfit VISTA originally formed in late 2015. Comprised of lead vocalist Hope Vista and guitarist Greg Almeida, the band combines both modern alternative rock and electronic influences to create their unique anthemic sound. VISTA released their debut 4-track EP “VERSUS” shortly after their original inception, in which their debut single “On The Brink” debuted worldwide on idobi radio. Their name hasn’t been shy in the press, since; the band has garnered praise from outlets such as Alternative Press, Rock Sound, Substream, and AXS.  In 2017, VISTA released their highly anticipated sophomore EP “Long Live,” featuring the lead single “Allegiance, played at Irving Plaza, gained idobi rotation with their single “Henchmen”, and completed  two headlining tours “Long Live” immediately made its’ way onto three different iTunes Alternative charts, including peaking at #10 on the top selling $5.99 albums, and sparked the completion of two promotional tours, in August and November, respectively. “The Bloodlust Tour” kicks off on June 25th in New Hampshire. Tickets are available via their website or Bandsintown.

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VISTA Official Channels:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | Spotify

Music

THE STRUTS Announce UK Headline Shows

by KristinLeave a Comment on THE STRUTS Announce UK Headline Shows

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ANNOUNCE UK HEADLINE SHOWS
LONDON – KOKO, 19TH JUNE
MANCHESTER – GORILLA, 20TH JUNE

plus
DOWNLOAD FESTIVAL – 9TH JUNE
SUPPORTING GUNS N’ ROSES ON THE MAIN STAGE

PLAYING FOUR SOLD OUT HEADLINE SHOWS
AT THE ROXY, LOS ANGELES IN MAY

SUPPORT ON FOO FIGHTERS’ CONCRETE AND GOLD TOUR

WATCH THE VIDEO FOR ‘ONE NIGHT ONLY’ HERE

Having sold-out their forthcoming four-night residency at the legendary Sunset Strip venue The Roxy in L.A. at the end of May in just a matter of hours, British rockers The Struts have now announced two shows in London and Manchester this June, alongside their long-awaited return to Download Festival.

The explosive four-piece last played in the UK in September 2017, to a packed-out Electric Ballroom in London, with rave reviews from the likes of Kerrang who described the gig as “a real turning point in the glistening rockers’ career”, and the Daily Star who claimed that “singer Luke Spiller certainly does have moves like Jagger, and gives him a run for his money in the costume change stakes too.”

And now – following their main stage slot at Download Festival on June 9th supporting Guns N’ Roses, who they have played many shows with around the world previously – they will play London’s KOKO on June 19th and Manchester’s Gorilla on June 20th.

Frontman Luke Spiller said of the upcoming shows, “Can’t wait to be playing in our native country to give our fans what they deserve. The best show they will see all year. This one’s for you. See you there x.”

Tickets for the headline shows go on sale on Friday 20th April at 9am via livenation.co.uk/artist/the-struts-tickets with The O2 pre-sale starting on Weds 18th April and Live Nation pre-sale on Thurs 19th April via the usual channels.

The Struts head off on their second run of dates with Foo Fighters in the US on the band’s Concrete And Gold tour this week and running throughout April, before they start their own headline tour of the US culminating in their four sold out shows at The Roxy in L.A. They then head to Europe for high-profile festival appearances in France, Norway, Belgium and Austria alongside their UK performances.   The band’s highly anticipated second album will be announced soon.

FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | YOUTUBE | WEBSITE

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Music

NAHKO Reveals ‘Hamakua’ Video

by Kristin1 Comment on NAHKO Reveals ‘Hamakua’ Video

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RELEASES VIDEO FOR ‘HAMAKUA’
WATCH HERE

NEW ACOUSTIC EP HAMAKUA AVAILABLE NOW

Singer/Songwriter Nahko has released the official music video for ‘Hamakua’. The single is the third from his debut solo album, My Name Is Bear, following the release of ‘Dragonfly’ and ‘Be Here Now’, and is the title track from his upcoming acoustic EP.

The video features never-before-seen home videos of Nahko from when he first began performing and originally wrote the song at age 18.

Nahko said of the video, “Finally, to Hamakua. The breath of the Creator. The birthing place of so many of the popular Medicine for the People songs. The Hamakua coast rolls along the rocky east side of the Big Island of Hawai’i, a place where I lived for nearly a decade; a place that served as the foundation for my awakening.

I teamed up with filmmaker Dom Walczuk again, the same director who made a number of our first music videos and documentaries on the Big Island, which now have millions of views, and we schemed to tell a reminiscent story of a bear, an island, and a community that grew a young cub and his music. We collected shots that Dom had in the vault from years back and patch worked them with VHS footage I had taken as a teenager of my first open mics and piano recitals. Then we laid foundation shots of who I am now on island, on horseback, in the ocean, to create a juxtaposition of ‘then and now’. 

The result is a collage of time well spent and I’m proud to present this visual storyboard that nods to the magic found on the ‘piko’ of the Pacific and within the sounds of my personal journey as a young man. ‘Oi kau ka Iā, e hana i ola honua – while the earth still moves, do all you can. Eo!” 

Nahko embarked on his solo acoustic tour last month, with support from Trevor Hall. A hugely accomplished pianist and guitarist, the shows brought a different interpretation to both his new solo work and his catalogue with Medicine For The People. Starting on April 18th in Dublin, the tour included six UK shows, including a sold out date at London’s Omeara on the 23rd.

Over the last five years, Nahko And Medicine For The People have continued to gather dedicated members of their global tribe of likeminded fans as they spread their powerful musical message. They incorporate a variety of sounds, ranging from alternative roots to acoustic rock while promoting social change. Their album HOKA debuted at #10 on Billboard’s Rock Album Chart and #6 on the Alternative Album Chart.

Nahko’s solo album, My Name Is Bear, debuted on a number of Billboard charts on its release in October last year including Independent Albums (#11), Tastemakers (#14), Emerging Artists (#19), Top Album Sales (#43), and the Top 200 Albums. The album also premiered at #1 on iTunes and the headline tour in support of it boasted multiple sold-out dates both Stateside and in Europe.

My Name Is Bear is a 16-track collection that reflects the soul, authenticity and spirit that Nahko’s fans have come to know. It predates Nahko’s rise to iconic status among diehard fans of Medicine For The People. As he puts it, the album serves as a “prequel,” that artfully merges rustic acoustic guitars, upbeat energy, tribal flavors, fiery percussion, and ponderous lyrics.

At the end of the day, My Name Is Bear sets the stage for a whole lot more from Nahko.

Movies

The Dust Brothers Present FIGHT CLUB with a Live Score

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The Dust Brothers Present FIGHT CLUB with a Live Score

Join us on May 19 at The Wiltern to revisit a classic film with a live movie score

The Dust Brothers and Jacob Maymudes present a one of a kind, out of this world evening at the historic Wiltern theater, featuring the live musical score and acclaimed “Fight Club” by David Fincher.

A rare live appearance of The Dust Brothers along with multi-instrumentalist Angel Roche (Dave Navarro and Ziggy Marley), Eric Klerks on guitar and bass (Grandmothers Of Invention), Damon Ramirez on the synths (Fungo Mungo, Looner), and the talented film composer, Zoë Poledouris-Roche (composer: Conan The Barbarian, Bully).The show features eye-popping stunts and acrobatic action onstage by fight coordinator Henry Layton.

Come don your project mayhem rebellious side, and join in on this sensory overloaded revival night of “Fight Club,” the American cult classic.WHAT: Screening of the movie Fight Club by David Fincher with a live score and stunt performance

WHERE: The Wiltern, 3790 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010

WHEN: May 19 – Doors open at 7 p.m.. Movie starts at 8 p.m.

DETAILS: 18+ welcome, full bar w/ID and food available.

Tickets available on Ticketmaster: GA Floor and GA Mezzanine – $39.50,

LOGE – $49.50 (inclusive of access to VIP preferential line, and reserved seating within LOGE),

VIP tickets – $59.50 (VIP section, access to VIP preferential line, commemorative poster)

 

Movies, Music

DEADPOOL 2: ORIGINAL MOTION PICTURE SOUNDTRACK Set To Release May 18 via Columbia Records

by KristinLeave a Comment on DEADPOOL 2: ORIGINAL MOTION PICTURE SOUNDTRACK Set To Release May 18 via Columbia Records

DEADPOOL 2: ORIGINAL MOTION PICTURE SOUNDTRACK SET TO RELEASE MAY 18 VIA COLUMBIA RECORDS

OFFICIAL VIDEO FOR ORIGINAL SONG “ASHES” BY MUSICAL LEGEND CELINE DION PREMIERES TODAY AND FEATURES RYAN REYNOLDS AS DEADPOOL

NEW SONG “WELCOME TO THE PARTY” BY DIPLO, FRENCH MONTANA & LIL PUMP FT. ZHAVIA WARD ALSO INCLUDED ON SOUNDTRACK

THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED FILM DEADPOOL 2 HITS THEATRES ON MAY 18

Twentieth Century Fox Film and Columbia Records have announced Deadpool 2: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack will release May 18. The 12-track compilation is available for pre-order now and features two new original songs recorded exclusively for the film, including “Ashes” by Celine Dion and “Welcome To The Party” by Diplo, French Montana, Lil Pump featuring Zhavia Ward. The accompanying official video for “Ashes,” helmed by the film’s director David Leitch, has also premiered today – watch HERE. The video features Deadpool himself and was filmed in The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, the very venue where Celine hosts her Las Vegas residency shows. Here is the full track listing for Deadpool 2: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack:

  1. Ashes – Celine Dion
  2. Welcome To The Party – Diplo, French Montana & Lil Pump (feat. Zhavia Ward)
  3. Nobody Speak – DJ Shadow feat. Run The Jewels
  4. In Your Eyes – Peter Gabriel
  5. Take On Me (MTV Unplugged – Summer Solstice) – a-ha
  6. If I Could Turn Back Time – Cher
  7. 9 to 5 – Dolly Parton
  8. All Out Of Love – Air Supply
  9. We Belong – Pat Benatar
  10. Tomorrow – Alicia Morton
  11. Mutant Convoy – Tyler Bates
  12. Bangarang (feat. Sirah) – Skrillex


DEADPOOL 2 – SYNOPSIS: After surviving a near fatal bovine attack, a disfigured cafeteria chef (Wade Wilson) struggles to fulfill his dream of becoming Miami’s hottest bartender, while also learning to cope with his lost sense of taste. Searching to regain his spice for life, as well as a flux capacitor, Wade must battle ninjas, the yakuza, and a pack of sexually aggressive canines, as he journeys around the world to discover the importance of family, friendship, and flavor – finding a new taste for adventure and earning the coveted coffee mug title of World’s Best Lover.

DEADPOOL 2 Official Channels:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | #Deadpool2

Movies

DISTORTED | Official Trailer Released!

by KristinLeave a Comment on DISTORTED | Official Trailer Released!

IMG_1871QME Entertainment has released the official trailer for DISTORTED starring Christina Ricci, John Cusack and Brendan Fletcher. An electric thriller about a nefarious brainwashing experiment, DISTORTED, blurs the line between reality and paranoia. Don’t fear the lies. Fear the truth.

SYNOPSIS: Lauren (Christina Ricci) and Russel Curran (Brendan Fletcher) decide to move away from the bustle of the city and into the peaceful oasis of The Pinnacle, a coveted luxury condo boasting ultra-modern design, state-of-the-art features and security systems. Lauren begins to suspect the building has a dark side and seeks the help of Vernon (John Cusack), an investigative journalist with an interest in cyber conspiracy. Together, they come to believe that The Pinnacle may be brainwashing unsuspecting residents.

Release: June 22, 2018 (In theaters and ON DEMAND!)
Directed by: Rob King (Something More, The Humanity Bureau)
Written by: Arne Olsen (Repeaters, Here’s To Life)
Starring: Christina Ricci (“Z: The Beginning of Everything,” The Opposite of Sex), Brendan Fletcher (The Revenant, “The Killing”) and John Cusack (Love & Mercy, High Fidelity)

DISTORTED hits theaters on JUNE 22, 2018!

DISTORTED Official Channels:

Website | IMDB | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | #Distorted

Movies

DEADPOOL 2 Finds Deviant Artists for Exclusive IMAX Poster!

by KristinLeave a Comment on DEADPOOL 2 Finds Deviant Artists for Exclusive IMAX Poster!

20th Century Fox, IMAX and DeviantArt have teamed up in an exclusive partnership to find the perfect deviant artist for the DEADPOOL 2 Official IMAX Poster! Deviants were able to see five beloved ‘celebrity’ artists put their own spin on a fan-favorite superhero in DeviantArt’s first ever invite-only competition.

Fans are encouraged to take a selfie with the official IMAX poster when they spot it in select IMAX theaters (U.S. and Canada.)

Meet the artists and check out the winning posters below!

1ST PLACE WINNER – ANDY FAIRHURST – Will be printed and displayed in select IMAX theatre lobby cases in the US and Canada.

You can check out more of his work here: andyfairhurst.deviantart.com/

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2ND PLACE WINNER – JOHN GALLAGHER – On opening night (5/17), fans who experience Deadpool 2 in select IMAX theatres will receive this art as an exclusive mini poster. Giveaways are available while supplies last and only at participating theatres.

You can check out more of his work here: uncannyknack.deviantart.com/

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3RD PLACE WINNER – PATRICK BROWN – Starting 5/18, fans who experience Deadpool 2 in IMAX at Regal Cinemas will receive this art as an exclusive collectible ticket, while supplies last. Plus get a free promo code to redeem for a mini poster in the Crown Club Rewards Center. Giveaways are available while supplies last and only at participating theatres.

You can check out more of his work here: patrickbrown.deviantart.com/

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HONORABLE MENTION – JARREAU WIMBERLY

Jarreau is a freelance illustrator and the majority of his work is in the fantasy and sci fi genres. He believes in telling a great story while conveying emotion and excitement through his images.

You can check out more of his work here: reau.deviantart.com/

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COMPETITOR – ALICE X. ZHANG

Alice is a full-time freelance illustrator with an enduring interest in cinema, comics, and pop culture.

You can check out more of her work here: alicexz.deviantart.com/

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DEADPOOL 2

Release: May 18, 2018

SYNOPSIS: After surviving a near fatal bovine attack, a disfigured cafeteria chef (Wade Wilson) struggles to fulfill his dream of becoming Mayberry’s hottest bartender while also learning to cope with his lost sense of taste. Searching to regain his spice for life, as well as a flux capacitor, Wade must battle ninjas, the yakuza, and a pack of sexually aggressive canines, as he journeys around the world to discover the importance of family, friendship, and flavor – finding a new taste for adventure and earning the coveted coffee mug title of World’s Best Lover.

 

DEADPOOL 2 Official Channels:

Official Site | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | #Deadpool

Movies

TACO SHOP Experience the Battle for Taco Supremacy | Now Available On DVD & Digital

by KristinLeave a Comment on TACO SHOP Experience the Battle for Taco Supremacy | Now Available On DVD & Digital

Sony Logo

From A Producer of Selena

Tyler Posey, Felipe Esparza, and Paula Jai-Parker Come Together for the Ultimate Comedy

TACO SHOP

Experience the Battle for Taco Supremacy

Now Available On DVD & Digital

TacoShop_2018_DVD_FrontLeftTyler Posey (“Teen Wolf,” Maid in Manhattan), Felipe Esparza (“Superstore,” “Last Comic Standing”), and Paula Jai-Parker (“Ray Donovan,” “NCIS Los Angeles”) team up together for a comedy of epic proportions in TACO SHOP coming to DVD and Digital on May 1 from GVN Releasing via Sony Pictures Home Entertainment.

In this slapstick comedy, Smokes (Posey) plays a young man who fights to keep his job at Taco Dollar after a gourmet taco truck parks across the street and threatens its survival. An all-out war ensues as Bruce (Brian Huskey) and his band of cholos challenge the crew of Taco Dollar for taco supremacy. TACO SHOP also stars Carlos Alazraqui (“Elena of Avalor”), Dan Bakkedahl (“VEEP”), Eric Roberts (The Expendables), and Brian Huskey (“Bob’s Burgers”).

SYNOPSIS: When a gourmet taco truck threatens the existence of Taco Dollar, an angered employee named Smokes unites co-workers and a hilarious all-out war ensues.

TACO SHOP was directed by Joaquin Perea and from a story by Oskar Toruno and a screenplay by Oskar Toruno and Rick Najera. It was produced by Robert A. Parada and Moctesuma Esparza (Selena) and executive produced by Oskar Toruno and Martin Torres.

TACO SHOP has a run of approximately 84 minutes and is rated PG-13 for Crude and Sexual Content, Language, Some Innuendo and Drug Material.

 

TACO SHOP Official Channels:

Official Site | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | #tacoshopmovie

Interviews, Movies

@Thisfunktional Talks With Veronica Diaz, Luis Victor Jimenez TACO SHOP

by thisfunktionalartfreakLeave a Comment on @Thisfunktional Talks With Veronica Diaz, Luis Victor Jimenez TACO SHOP

Written by Jesus Figueroa

Actors Veronica Diaz and Luis Victor Jimenez talk with Jesus Figueroa, @Thisfunktional of Thisfunktional.com, about their roles in “Taco Shop.”

Diaz talks about supporting independent business and how most Latina grandmothers have had to be entrepreneurs.

Jimenez talks about gentrification and how he was able to relate to the themes of the movie because of his experience with gentrification in Los Angeles.

TACO SHOP
Available Now On DVD
Follow and interact with Jesus:
Twitter – @Thisfunktional
Instagram – @Thisfunktional
Facebook – ThisfunktionalLA
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Music

Artist to Watch | Part Two : AMBER RUN

by KristinLeave a Comment on Artist to Watch | Part Two : AMBER RUN

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Three years ago, my niece introduced me to a song called “I Found” by a band I’d never heard of. I was immediately hooked on the sound they had together, so I checked out their EP’s and looked up their name, AMBER RUN.

I decided to feature Amber Run as my “Artist to Watch” back when I was first starting my blog around the same time (you can read that original post HERE). Fortunately, I didn’t have to wait long for a full-length album because their first was released on April 27, 2015. Their debut album, 5AM, doesn’t have one weak song on it, and I definitely think you should check it out! Here’s the track listing for the deluxe version of 5AM:

  1. Found
  2. M.F. (Interlude)
  3. Spark
  4. Hurricane
  5. Noah
  6. Pilot
  7. C.F. Interlude
  8. 5AM
  9. Just My Soul Responding
  10. Good Morning
  11. Shiver
  12. See You Soon
  13. Don’t Wanna Fight
  14. Where Do We Go From Here
  15. Little Ghost
  16. Heaven
  17. Kites

Their second full-length album, For a Moment, I Was Lost, was released in 2017 and here’s the track listing for that one:

  1. Insomniac
  2. No Answers
  3. Island
  4. Stranger
  5. Fickle Game
  6. Haze
  7. White Lie
  8. Perfect
  9. Dark Bloom
  10. Machine
  11. Are You Home?
  12. Wastelands

IMG_0366As you can see, Amber Run is definitely NOT holding back any punches. One of their songs, “Fickle Game,” was featured on the finale of Suits and today they announced that they’re finally making their way over to the US for a show on December 8 in Brooklyn, NY. All I need is for them to travel a bit south (to Florida) and I’ll be one happy, music-loving woman!

If you haven’t heard them yet, do yourself a favor and check them out. You can thank me later. Also, if that weren’t enough, they have an EP titled The Assembly that will be released on May 11, 2018!

You can find more information about Amber Run by visiting their website HERE.

Here’s the video for the song that got me hooked on this incredibly talent band. Check it out and let me know what you think!

 

Blog, Entertainment News, Music

*NSYNC Dirty Pop-Up Shop & Walk of Fame

by KristinLeave a Comment on *NSYNC Dirty Pop-Up Shop & Walk of Fame

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Ladies and gentlemen, today is the last day of April . . . which means that it’s gonna be MAY!! Yes, sorry, I had to do it.

In less than an hour, fans out in Hollywood, California and online all over the world will get to watch *NSYNC (finally) get their star on the Walk of Fame! If you’re like me and couldn’t make it out to Cali for the event, you can stream it live on walkoffame.com at 11:30 PDT.

Leading up to the ceremony, where all five members will reunite, they announced a pop-up shop in Los Angeles that is aptly dubbed Dirty Pop-Up. You heard that correctly. Not only do we get to see our favorite group-gone-too-soon together again, we also get new merch! Have we just transported back to my high school years??? Give me some sort of glimmer of hope for a mini reunion tour and I might need an EKG to check my heart lol.

I remember watching Disney’s In Concert with *NSYNC back in 1998 and I was immediately hooked. I begged my parents to buy me the VHS (yes, it was that long ago) of *N The Mix and watched it repeatedly for months – I’ve since upgraded to the DVD version of it and I even introduced my niece to it when she was younger. I had stacks of floppy disks with pictures on them and my bedroom walls were wallpapered with *NSYNC posters and magazine articles. I was that person.

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Merch – Volume 1

I saw them live for the first time at the Broward County Fair where Britney Spears opened up for them ( I had no idea who she was yet). My best friend and I were trying to get there early, but we had a fire drill at school that delayed our release. We definitely contemplated fleeing during the drill, but it turns out it wasn’t just a drill-someone set a garbage can on fire on the third floor and ruined our chances at meeting the guys. Another friend of mine sat next to me in Science in 10th grade. We’d have *NSYNC magazines and books resting on top of our Science books and I don’t think we ever looked so involved in our schoolwork! I was lucky enough to see them live 4 times before their “hiatus” in 2002. I was just graduating high school and between that and their hiatus, I thought my world was turned upside down.

 

16 years later and here I am, prepping to watch the guys receive their star on the Walk of Fame and checking out merch online in their store at nsync.com. Maybe now, my world is being turned right-side up!

So, I just wanted to send a huge CONGRATS to Justin, JC, Lance, Joey and Chris for making their mark in music history no matter how long it lasted. As I sit here with my *NSYNC playlist on repeat today, I’m finally old enough to hold up a glass (if I wasn’t at work) and cheers to a fabulous run! Thank you for everything.

Movie Reviews, Movies

Movie Review by @mikethemovieguy – LOVE & BANANAS: AN ELEPHANT STORY | #loveandbananas

by KristinLeave a Comment on Movie Review by @mikethemovieguy – LOVE & BANANAS: AN ELEPHANT STORY | #loveandbananas

Elephant rescues in Thailand are rare, unpredictable and often life threatening. After waiting over 2 years, actor/director Ashley Bell and a team of elephant rescuers led by world renowned Asian elephant conservationist and TIME Magazine’s Hero of Asia, Sangdeaun Lek Chailert, embark on a daring mission to rescue Noi Na, a 70-year old partially blind trekking elephant and bring her 500 miles across Thailand to freedom.

African elephants are slaughtered for their ivory, but sadly the plight of the Asian Elephant has been completely overlooked even though they are the elephant we are most familiar with in zoos, circuses and elephant rides. Love & Bananas: An Elephant Story exposes the cruel secret that every Asian elephant has had to endure to become a service animal; a process known as Pajan, aka The Crush Box. Love & Bananas: An Elephant Story aims to ignite a new way of thinking about this species and shows what can be done to prevent the extinction of Asian elephants.

 

Man! I had the chance to watch this last night. It has to be one of the best documentary’s I’ve seen in a long time. LOVE & BANANAS: AN ELEPHANT STORY definitely took me on a roller coaster of emotions.

Sadness. Anxiety. Happiness.

Everyone involved in this mission is awesome!! Lek is a BEAST!!! This little lady here…AMAZING. Shoutouts to Ashley Bell and her team for bringing this to the screen.

LOVE & BANANAS: AN ELEPHANT STORY is a MUST WATCH film! After watching it – I immediately followed all their social media to help spread the word on what’s happening to Asian Elephants. I might not have a zillion dollars but anything helps, right?

People!! Watch this film where and when you can. LOVE & BANANAS: AN ELEPHANT STORY is screening in select cities now & there are more to come. Check out the links below for more info.

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | #loveandbananas
Love & Bananas: An Elephant Story

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

Entertainment News

Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights Enters an Alternate Dimension with the Highly-Anticipated Arrival of Netflix’s Original Series STRANGER THINGS as All-New Supernatural Mazes

by thisfunktionalartfreakLeave a Comment on Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights Enters an Alternate Dimension with the Highly-Anticipated Arrival of Netflix’s Original Series STRANGER THINGS as All-New Supernatural Mazes
Award-winning Sci-Fi Thriller Comes to Life for the First Time Ever at Premier Halloween Events in Hollywood, Orlando 
and Singapore

 

For the first time ever, Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Singapore are partnering with Netflix to bring “Stranger Things” to life at this year’s “Halloween Horror Nights” events.

Fans of the series will get the chance to brave the Upside Down and confront the supernatural as each park debuts all-new mazes inspired by season one of the critically-acclaimed series.

The parallel universe, referred to as the Upside Down that terrorized the small town of Hawkins, Indiana in Netflix’s mega-hit “Stranger Things,” will bring the chittering, predatory Demogorgon to “Halloween Horror Nights” to stalk unwitting guests as they encounter iconic scenes, characters and environments from the mesmerizing series.

​Working collaboratively with Netflix, along with the creators and executive producer of the blockbuster series—Matt Duffer, Ross Duffer and Shawn Levy, the mazes at Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Singapore will be authentic representations of “Stranger Things,” designed to transport guests into artfullyrecreated scenes and storylines.

From the menacing Hawkins National Laboratory, under theU.S. Department of Energy, to the Byers home adorned with an erratic display of flashing Christmas lights and the eerie Upside Down woods oozing a shower of floating orb-like spores, the chilling new mazes will offer surprising twists and unexpected turns around every corner.

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

For more than 25 years, guests from around the world have visited “Halloween Horror Nights” to become victims inside their own horror film.

Multiple movie-quality mazes based on iconic horror television shows, films and original stories come to life season after season.

And, the streets of each park’s event are transformed into highly-themed scare zones where menacing scare-actors lunge from every darkened corner.

Halloween Horror Nights begins Friday, September 14 in Hollywood and Orlando and on September 28 in Singapore.

Additional details about the events will be revealed soon. Select tickets and vacation packages for Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights are on sale now. For more information about “Halloween Horror Nights” at Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Orlando Resort or Universal Studios Singapore, visit HalloweenHorrorNights.com.

About Universal Studios Hollywood
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™”. 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 Ride™.” 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 production studio where they can also experience such authentic thrill rides as “Fast & Furious—Supercharged.” Coming in Summer 2018, Universal Studios Hollywood will welcome debut The DreamWorks Theatre featuring the premier attraction, “Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest.” The adjacent Universal CityWalk entertainment, shopping and dining complex also includes the all-new multi-million dollar, redesigned Universal CityWalkCinema, featuring deluxe recliner seating in screening room quality theatres, and the “5 Towers” state-of-the-art outdoor concert stage.

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.

Continue reading “Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights Enters an Alternate Dimension with the Highly-Anticipated Arrival of Netflix’s Original Series STRANGER THINGS as All-New Supernatural Mazes” →

Blog, TV

Telemundo and Universal Music Latin Entertainment Will Host “THE AFTER,” The Official 20th Anniversary After Party Of The BILLBOARD LATIN MUSIC AWARDS | #Billboards2018 #TheAfter

by KristinLeave a Comment on Telemundo and Universal Music Latin Entertainment Will Host “THE AFTER,” The Official 20th Anniversary After Party Of The BILLBOARD LATIN MUSIC AWARDS | #Billboards2018 #TheAfter

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Surrounded by Las Vegas’ lights and glamour, “The After” will be presented by Neutrogena and Monster Products and sponsored by Heineken, Ciroc and City National  Bank

Telemundo and Universal Music Latin Entertainment will host “The After,” the official 20th Anniversary After Party of the Billboard Latin Music Awards. The event will take place TONIGHT Thursday, April 26 at the Jewel night club inside the Aria Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada and feature special performances by Colombian star Karol G, viral phenomenon-turned-DJ, Gianluca Vacchi and platinum-selling artist and syndicated radio host/DJ Alex Sensation with NYC’s Latin Mix DJ’s.

The official After Party of the 20th Anniversary of the Billboard Latin Music Awards will be presented by Neutrogena and Monster Products and sponsored by Heineken, Ciroc and City National Bank, with attendees to include J Balvin, and hosts of this year’s award ceremony, Gaby Espino and Marco Antonio Regil, as well as celebrities, hosts and singers who will celebrate 20 years of musical excellence.

The Billboard Latin Music Awards will be broadcast live on Telemundo TONIGHT Thursday April 26 at 7pm/6c from the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, and will include musical performances by Jennifer Lopez, Bad Bunny, Becky G, Calibre 50, Cardi B, Chayanne, Christian Nodal, CNCO, Daddy Yankee, David Bisbal, De La Ghetto, Farruko, J Balvin, Karol G, Luis Fonsi, Maluma, Maná, Natti Natasha, Nicky Jam, Ozuna, Paty Cantú, Quavo, Reik, Ricky Martin, Sebastián Yatra, Sofía Reyes, Víctor Manuelle, Wisin, and Yandel.

The show also will air simultaneously on Spanish-language entertainment cable network Universo and will feature such television, film, music and social media stars as presenters as: Ana Jurka, Dr. Ana María Polo, Aracely Arámbula, Aylín Mujica, the singers of Banda MS: Oswaldo Silva and Alan Ramírez, Candela Ferro, Carmen Villalobos, Catherine Siachoque, Diego Boneta, Elva Saray, Erika Ender, Eugenio Derbez, Fernanda Castillo, Gianluca Vacchi, Karim Mendiburu, Raul Méndez, Reykon, Yuridia; and the Executive Director of Content and Latin Programming for Billboard, Leila Cobo.

Fans will be able to experience the excitement of the event at @LatinBillboards on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, as well as on Snapchat with TeamTelemundo, and will be able to join the conversation at #Billboards2018 and #TheAfter.

The Billboard Latin Music Awards honor the most popular albums, songs and performers in the Latin music, as determined by the actual sales, “streaming”, radio airplay and social data that informs Billboard’s weekly charts during a one-year period from the rankings dated February 4, 2017 through this year’s January 27 charts. Based on album sales, digital track sales, streaming data and monitored radio airplay provided by Nielsen Music and social data provided by Next Big Sound, Billboard’s rankings and the world’s most authoritative music charts. Finalists, and the eventual winners, reflect the performance of new recordings on Billboard’s albums and songs charts, including Top Latin Albums, Hot Latin Songs, Latin Streaming Songs and Latin Digital Songs, among others.

Blog

My Essay, ON THE WAY DOWN, Has Been Published On Anti-Heroin Chic

by KristinLeave a Comment on My Essay, ON THE WAY DOWN, Has Been Published On Anti-Heroin Chic

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Hey there!

I recently submitted two essays to Anti-Heroin Chic and am happy to report that BOTH have been accepted! ‘On the Way Down’ was published on April 24th and the second essay will be published at a later date.

Both of these essays are extremely personal to me, so I was nervous about submitting them. My only hope is that someone who might be experiencing something similar won’t feel so alone.

‘On the Way Down’ was written about my first major experience with anxiety. Losing someone close to me was a trigger for me and it’s become a part of who I am. I was experimenting with different styles of writing, and I wrote this essay using only semi-colons to give off the effect of experiencing the anxiety I was feeling at the time.

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You can read the essay for yourself by clicking the link below. This will redirect you over to Anti-Heroin Chic:

On the Way Down by Kristin Trujillo

 

Movies

BAD SAMARITAN | The WORST Valet Tips Of All Time By Robert Sheehan

by KristinLeave a Comment on BAD SAMARITAN | The WORST Valet Tips Of All Time By Robert Sheehan

BAD SAMARITAN in theaters May 4th

Bad Samaritan is in theaters in 9 days!

And before you make a decision regarding using valet parking at the theater (or anywhere, really!) please check out this clip by Robert Sheehan!

The WORST valet tips of all time by Robert Sheehan:

SYNOPSIS:

BAD SAMARITAN is a terrifying cautionary tale of two thieves uncovering more than what they bargained for when breaking into a house they thought would be an easy score. After making a shocking discovery, they must choose to run and hide, or face the killer whose dark secrets they have exposed.

BAD SAMARITAN es la terrorífica historia de dos ladrones que se encuentran con algo inesperado cuando tratan de robar una mansión que parecía ser presa fácil. Ahí, después de descubrir algo horrible, tendrán que decidir si correr, o enfrentarse al psicópata a quien le han descubierto sus secretos más oscuros.

 

BAD SAMARITAN Official Channels:

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | #BadSamaritan

Music

CATHERINE MCGRATH Shares Official Video For ‘Wild’

by KristinLeave a Comment on CATHERINE MCGRATH Shares Official Video For ‘Wild’

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A BAD DATE AT A COLDPLAY SHOW INSPIRES
THE NEW VIDEO FOR ‘WILD’
WATCH IT HERE

FROM THE DEBUT ALBUM
TALK OF THIS TOWN
WHICH FOLLOWS ON JULY 27TH ON WARNER BROS. RECORDS

Plays sold-out London show at Bush Hall on May 2nd

Set to support Michael Bublé
at British Summer Time in Hyde Park on July 13th

At a time when country music is exploding into the mainstream with huge collaborations between Justin Timberlake and Chris Stapleton, and Bebe Rexha and Florida Georgia Line, Catherine McGrath is poised to become the first international crossover star from the burgeoning UK country scene.

That superstar-to-be status is underlined with the release of a brand new official video for her current single ‘Wild’. Contrasting fun times in Nashville with a romantic interest with being effectively alone at a gig, the bittersweet video reflects Catherine’s own experiences of going on a date to a Coldplay show with a guy who was still fixated on his ex.  The video was directed by Justin Nolan Key (Taylor Swift, Cassadee Pope).

“I grew up inspired by so many artists who were based in Nashville and obviously the country music scene is so huge there, so to have filmed this in the heart of the city was incredible,” says Catherine. “My last two videos used home footage and animation, so it was cool to do something so different for ‘Wild’ – especially as it tells such a specific story. It’s definitely my favourite song and video that I’ve released so far.”

WATCH IT HERE

Catherine co-wrote the song with Steve Robson as well as Lindy Robbins (Dua Lipa) and Jeffrey Steele (Rascal Flatts). The track previews the July 27th release of her debut album Talk Of This Town, which was recorded at various locations in Nashville and London, and affirms Catherine’s credentials as an artist and songwriter to be reckoned with.

The album Talk Of This Town features three tracks which have each exceeded a million streams at Spotify in the shape of the ‘Cinderella’, ‘Thought It Was Gonna Be Me’ and ‘Just In Case’ as well as a wealth of new material. Other highlights include ‘Don’t Let Me Forget’, a duet with the American country sensation Hunter Hayes; the anthemic ‘Lost In The Middle’, a celebration of the escapist qualities of country music; and the closing ‘She’ll Never Lose You’, a stripped-back ballad which showcases the power and finesse of Catherine’s vocal.

Raised in Rostrevor, a small rural village in Northern Ireland, Catherine McGrath is the personification of how country music is opening its borders to talent from far outside of its epicentre in Nashville. In fact, Catherine was immediately embraced by the community upon her first visit.

Working with a kindred spirit in the shape of producer Steve Robson – a Geordie who became a force within the scene after co-writing Rascal Flatts’ smash hit ‘What Hurts The Most’ – Catherine went onto collaborate with a number of Nashville powerhouse producers and co-writers such as Jimmy Robbins (Keith Urban), Liz Rose (Taylor Swift), Forest Glen Whitehead (Kelsea Ballerini) and Sam Ellis (Hunter Hayes).

Country music is of course rooted in Irish folk, so it feels natural that Catherine is at the forefront of a new wave of country. It’s fitting on a personal level too. Catherine was raised in a music loving family, and has regularly performed at her parents’ spirited Fiddler’s Green festival, which attracts musicians from as far afield as North America and Germany. And when Catherine was ready to reach a wider audience, she posted covers of her favorite country songs to YouTube which resulted in her obtaining management and signing a deal with Warner Bros. Records.

Hailed as a major new talent by Sir Elton John, Catherine McGrath’s ascent has been backed by Radio 1 support from Adele Roberts, Scott Mills and Cel Spellman; a playlist at Radio 2, where Bob Harris has been a long-term fan; and ten consecutive tracks which have been added to Spotify’s New Music Friday UK playlist.

Catherine McGrath is quickly building a reputation in the live area too, with highlights including two performances at Country 2 Country, further festivals including Latitude and Wilderness, and tours with Dan & Shay and The Shires. Her debut London headline show at Camden Assembly was sold-out, while next month’s Bush Hall gig also sold-out within two hours and her Manchester show at the Deaf Institute soon followed suit. Ticket sales are also strong in Glasgow, which looks set to sell-out imminently.

Her touring profile has just been boosted with the news that she’ll support Michael Bublé at the British Summer Time festival in Hyde Park on July 13th.

LIVE DATES:

MAY
1st – Manchester, Deaf Institute (SOLD OUT)
2nd – London, Bush Hall (SOLD OUT)
4th – Glasgow, King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut
5th – Live At Leeds
27th – Coventry, Radio 2’s The Biggest Weekend

JUNE
23rd – Isle of Wight Festival

JULY
13th – London, British Summer Time (support to Michael Bublé)
15th – Oxford, Cornbury Music Festival

AUGUST
25th – Portsmouth, Victorious Festival

SEPTEMBER
7th – Leicester, The Long Road Festival

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Official Website | Spotify | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Movies

DOG DAYS | Official Teaser Posters

by KristinLeave a Comment on DOG DAYS | Official Teaser Posters

The official teaser posters for DOG DAYS are here! Check out the posters below and see DOG DAYS starring Nina Dobrev, Vanessa Hudgens, Eva Longoria, Finn Wolfhard, Adam Pally and more IN THEATERS August 10th!

SYNOPSIS: From acclaimed production company LD Entertainment (The Zookeeper’s Wife, Jackie, and Megan Leavey) and Director Ken Marino comes Dog Days. Dog Days is a hilarious and heartfelt ensemble comedy that follows the lives of multiple dog owners and their beloved fluffy pals around sunny Los Angeles. When these human and canine’s paths start to intertwine, their lives begin changing in ways they never expected.

DOG DAYS

Genre: Comedy
Release: August 10, 2018
Director: Ken Marino
Writers: Elissa Matsueda
Cast: Nina Dobrev, Vanessa Hudgens, Eva Longoria, Finn Wolfhard, Adam Pally
Distributor: LD Entertainment

DOG DAYS Official Channels:

Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | #DogDaysTheFilm