I hope you had an opportunity to read Part I of Tinsel & Tine's interview with movie theater turned restaurant owner Tom Brandt. If not, here's the link: Brandt Part I.
The focus of the first post was on Tom's career and family history owning movie theaters and his love of film and the cinema. Part II focuses on Brandt's passion for his newest venture, Oaxaca Kitchen (New Haven, CT), the restaurant he co-owns with chef Prasad Chirnomula.
T & T: What makes Oaxaca Kitchen unique besides Chef Prasad?
Pato a la Brasos
TB: We are not the normal Tex Mex style of cuisine found in this part of the country. Our cuisine is all about the traditional home style Mexican Cuisine. Like our Beef Barbacoa, served in parchment paper, so tender the meat just falls apart. And our Fire Grilled Duckwith Pistachio Mole, the Ceviche Veracruztopped with tomato lime sorbet and I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the Mole Rojo which is a chocolate chili red mole with fire grilled chicken.
We also feature a selection of designer Tacos filled with choices such as: Baha Red Snapper, Pork Belly and Duck Confit. And we create our own hot sauces in the kitchen ranging from not so hot to “Ouch”. The deserts are also spectacular featuring the Ultra Moist Tres Leches and The Pepita scented Caramel custard.
T & T: I'm salivating! I'd have to order all three tacos. Were you wild about Mexican Cuisine before Oaxaca Kitchen?
Gaucamole in Oaxaca Kitchen
TB: I really got into the Mexican cuisine when I lived in Santa Fe, NM but had not had the opportunity to really experience the traditional style of Oacxaca cuisine until I met Chef Prasad. I immediately fell in love with it and all its complexities.
To this day, I always have a supply of green Hatch chilis in my fridge ready to be served with just about everything. Yes, I am addicted to the heat.
Brandt's friend and partner, Prasad is an award winning chef with recognition from the James Beard Foundation. The New York Times recently rated Prasad's Indian Restaurants, Thali India "Best Indian restaurant in the New York area". Brandt is also now a part of the Thali chain and together they have opened a second Oacxaca Kitchen.
Prasad and Tom in Oaxaca Kitchen with Plantains and Roasted pork belly
T &T: So even though Prasad is the Executive Chef, you also like to cook, right?
TB: I love to cook and take cooking classes. My wife Sue and I just participated in a class in Santa Fe, NM focusing on Local New Mexican food.
Tom's wife Sue is a ceramic artist and photography teacher at the Wilton, Connecticut high school. I envy them their companionship and the fun they have traveling, mountain biking, camping, skiing, wine tasting, attending music festivals, etc... Brandt says together they share a love for great art and food!
Sue with Chef Prasad at James Beard Dinner hosted by Prasads Thali restaurant
T &T: You seem to be hands on at Oaxaca, what do you like about the restaurant industry?
TB: It’s all about the interaction between the waitstaff, kitchen and customers; and the madness that ensues each day as the place gets humming with people and the Mexican music builds in the background while the aromas of freshly roasted spices fill the air. It’s quite a rush to see all these pieces come together with the ultimate goal being the great reviews of our satisfied customers.
T &T: The name Oaxaca (which I looked up on Wikipedia, is a town or district in Mexico) is very hard to pronounce - did you worry this could be a detraction for the success of the place?
TB: Not for a minute. It’s a great conversation topic. Only 1 in 50 pronounce it right the first time. It sounds like Wa-Ha-Ca.
T &T: You told me you see the similarities between the theater and restaurant business; that mainly at the core they are both about entertaining the public outside of their home. But what hadn't you thought about before embarking on restaurant ownership?
TB: The hours. It is the most time consuming endeavor that I have ever experienced, but also the most rewarding!
T &T: Would you consider investing in another restaurant? And if so, what type of cuisine or theme? Or would it depend on meeting another amazing chef?
TB: For the time being, I am focused on the existing chain of 4 Thali Indian restaurants and 2 Oaxaca Kitchen Mexican restaurants. I would definitely consider investing in another restaurant in the future. We are currently looking into NYC for our next signature location. As far as working with another chef, -- probably not. I am lucky to be able to work with someone who is a great friend first and a business partner second. I am not sure that I would want to press my luck.
Tom's favorite dish at Oaxaca is the Mole Rojo (previously mentioned). And at Thali, he can't get enough of the Konkan Crab appetizer, which is lump crab meat mixed with coconut milk, ginger, garlic, mustard seeds and Serrano Chilis.
One of the Thali restaurant is located on Yale University's campus and the students really go for the Dean's Dosa, a 5 foot long ultra thin crispy crepe filled with curried potatoes. "When it is served, it resembles a piece of folk art.", says Brandt.
6' long Deans Dosa crepe with curried potato filling at Thali Too in New haven, CT
There are some people in this world who are just too talented and accomplished and Tom seems to be one of them. (said jokingly). When I asked him about his libation preference, I found out he helped to create the specialty cocktails for the restaurant. On top of which, he and Sue have an extensive wine cellar, mostly collecting bottles from boutique vineyards in CA.
TB: My absolute favorite is the Oaxaca Margarita aka the “OMG” which is made with fresh squeezed lime juice, El Jimador Anejo Tequilla, Tuaca, Agave Syrup and a splash of OJ. Rocks and salt. "Bring it on!"
Oaxaca Kitchen Bar
Thank you Tom so much for visiting with me and my readers. It truly meant a lot that you reached out to say my food and film / food in film concept struck a chord with you; give me your assessment of the symbiosis of film and food?
TB: I love your concept and what you are all about. You have single-handedly combined all my interests into one blog. It inspired me to reach out to you in hopes of further developing the possibilities of throwing food and film events that not only involve recreating the food from the movie, but also to include the actors, writers and critics into the mix as well.
TBcont: There are many movies with memorable food scenes. It would be a fantasy for many people to experience the re-creation of those meals by professional chefs in addition to screening the movie in advance of the meal. You inspired me to work on this kind of event. I am considering starting with the food from the movie “Like Water for Chocolat” and continuing from there.
Needless to say, this concept is a fantasy for me! I love the idea of lending my passion, energy and blog in some capacity to help create these food and film events.
So stay tuned readers, this could be Tinsel & Tine's big break!
Tinsel & Tine's Look at : The 26th Annual PHILADELPHIA Film Festival By Le Anne Lindsay, Editor POST UPDATE 11/1/2018: ...
Food n Film: BURNT
Bradley Cooper has more than charisma, he has an over abundance of Chi, which radiates out from him; so for me, this role as temperamental and damaged chef Adam Jones, who also inspires great love and admiration from those around him, works on the level of characterization. In fact, I think he's among a very short list of actors who would be able to pull off being so self-involved and yet likable. Doesn't hurt that he really speaks French too! READ POST
Much of the movie centers around the father/son relationship, and how much they learn from each other. But the real star of the film is all the food preparation, every other scene made me groan with want of everything up on that screen! Particularly the perfectly roasted and rubbed brisket, the crispy fat of the pork belly, sizzling bacon and the much ballyhooed Chocolate Lava Cake. READ POST
CITY OF GOLD
The key to deciphering both the city it beautifully depicts and the man who eats it best - City of Gold
By Tinsel & Tine Contributor Denine Gorniak (The Bicycle-Chef)
What Jonathan Gold, Los Angeles Times food critic/writer, has done for food writing journalism and for the restaurants that he loves, the movie, City of Gold has done for Jonathan Gold and Los Angeles and its surrounding environs – it has planted taco covered kisses on them... READ POST
Food n Film: CHOCOLAT
If you’re a foodie movie lover who saw Lasse Hallström’s The Hundred Foot Journey (see T&T post), this summer you may be wondering what delicious visual journey might be awaiting you in the theater next. Well, how about a look back at his film Chocolat (2000), which stars French actress Juliette Binoche, Judi Dench and Johnny Depp. Hallström’s has a special talent for turning cooking into a dramatic movie journey...READ MORE
Food n Film: THE HUNDRED FOOT JOURNEY
...young Hassan, a soulful-eyed boy with lush, thick eye lashes, places his face into the sea urchin basket, and breathes in the exotic briny scent. He sticks his fingers into the aquatic ooze, takes it to his mouth and is transfixed by the taste. The vendor, oblivious to the thrusting arms of frenzied women, notices the boy and realizes he is the only one worthy of this oceanic prize; he is the one who can “truly taste.” ... READ MORE
Food n Film: JULIE & JULIA
Personally, I like the unevenness of it, because I fell in love with the post World War II, Parisian sights, sounds, food and romance between Julia and Paul. I always felt a bit jarred back into reality when the scenes returned to Julie's meltdowns and cramped kitchen.READ POST
Food n Film: EAT PRAY LOVE
Six months into my 38th year of this life, I had my first panic attack. I didn't know that's what it was until months later. Symptom after symptom starting piling up on me until there were days I could no longer move my arms or neck. The doctors told me I was suffering from an auto-immune condition that they felt was most likely Lupus. And so began my much deeper journey and exploration into the world of spirit, alternative medicine, yoga, meditation and Eat, Pray, Love. READ POST
With a film like this, food plays a main character in the story and I was lucky enough to get an interview with the film's Food Stylist, Janine Kalesis.READ POST
Food n Film: WAITRESS
In this 2007 film, Keri Russell stars as Jenna - a desolate diner waitress seeking solace in the art of pie-making. Trapped in an unhappy marriage, she’s eager to escape her husband and her small-town hell and sets about to make a run for it by entering an out of town pie baking contest. READ POST
Food n Film: BABETTE'S FEAST
Those of us in attendance were not only given the opportunity to see Babette's Feast, the Oscar winning, Danish film, considered one of the all-time great "food films"; we also got to taste Babette's menu! READ POST
WALKMS
I participated in WalkMS Philly on 4/30/16 Thank you to the readers who donated to the cause - It's not too late to support! Click badge below
15 Top Food in Film Flicks
Cozy Quilt of Food Movies, we'll add more patches as T &T discovers more films where food plays the biggest "roll"
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Videographer Oliver Gallini 5 min short featuring organic-chemist-turned-chef, Townsend Wentz, who got his start at The Four Seasons Philadelphia.
Why Rounders Is The Best Film About Poker
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BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY
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FIRST MAN
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FILM FESTIVAL COVERAGE
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CRAZY RICH ASIANS
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LIGHTBOX FILM CENTER: INGMAR BERGMAN RETROSPECTIVE
CLICK IMAGE to see post, sorry, it about the retrospective, not my reviews of the films. I saw 3 or 4, but never got a chance to get my thoughts down and now I don't remember the nuances.
PRETTY WOMAN THE MOVIE VS PRETTY WOMAN THE MUSICAL
CLICK IMAGE to see the thoughtful responses to the same 5 Questions put to 20 Filmmakers presenting Shorts during #BlackStar18
THE PREDATOR
we started off talking THE PREDATOR on That's Show Biz with Chuck Darrow this week. Check out Tinsel & Tine's movie segment on the WWDBTalk860 Podcast starting point 45:00 -
BLACKkKLANSMAN
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THE MEG - PUZZLE - THE HAPPYTIME MURDERS
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CLICK IMAGE to see my commentary inspired by Ruth Bader Ginsburg doc
THE FIRST PURGE
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MAMMA MIA! HERE WE GO AGAIN
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Blog Archive Date Order
HOTEL ARTEMIS
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ANT-MAN and the WASP
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SUMMER MOVIES 1
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WON'T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR?
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ADRIFT
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SOLO: A Star Wars Story
CLICK IMAGE: to read T&T's #MiniMovieReview on the Han Solo origin movie
LIFE OF THE PARTY
CLICK IMAGE for T&T's #MiniMovieReview of Melissa McCarthy in this back to school comedy
AND WE EVOLVE
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AVENGERS: INFINITY WAR
CLICK IMAGE to Check out T&T's 5 Favorite Moments from this 19th installment of the MCU!
BREAKING IN
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PHILLY FILM AWARDS
CLICK IMAGE to see highlights from 3rd Annual Indie Film Black Tie Awards in Philly
TULLY
CLICK IMAGE to check out Jason Reitman's Q&A in Philly for film TULLY starring Chalize Theron
BRASS RIBBON CINEMA
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PHILADELPHIA INDEPENDENT FILM FESTIVAL
CLICK IMAGE for highlights from PIFF11
A QUIET PLACE
CLICK IMAGE for T&T #MiniMovieReview of John Krasinski's directorial debut and smash hit
THE LEISURE SEEKER
ISLE OF DOGS
CLICK IMAGE to check out T&T's #MiniMovieReview of auteur Wes Anderson's Japanese inspired stop-motion animated film
T&T Weekly Movie Contribution on WWDBTalk860
Most Tuesdays at 3:45pm I Contribute to a Radio Program (WWDB-AM Talk 860/ iTunesRadio) THAT'S SHOW BIZ WITH CHUCK DARROW. The show features celebrity interviews and several contributors discussing different aspects of the entertainment industry with a slant toward Philly. T&T does the weekly movie segment LISTEN TO EACH WEEK'S PODCASTS
LIST OF PODCAST I LISTEN TO WHILE COOKING OR EATING
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BLACK PANTHER
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TOMB RAIDER
CLICK IMAGE for T&T's #MiniMovieReview of this female driven action/adventure based on the Lara Croft video games
A WRINKLE IN TIME
CLICK IMAGE to view T&T's thoughts on this much anticipated and culturally significant movie
LOVE, SIMON
CLICK IMAGE to check out this surprisingly well executed YA love story
RED SPARROW
CLICK IMAGE for T&T's #MiniMovieReview on this JLaw driven Russian Spy Thriller
ANNIHILATION
CLICK IMAGE for T&T's #MiniMovieReview of this female driven Sci-Fi/Horror flick
Tinsel & Tine Loves the OSCARS
Click Image for the OSCAR Recap including T&T's pick for Best & Worst Dressed
CALL ME BY YOUR NAME
CLICK IMAGE for T&T's #MiniMovieReview on this highly praised Luca Guadagnino film
GAME NIGHT
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PETER RABBIT
CLICK IMAGE for T&T#MiniMovieReview featuring James Corden as a wascally wabbit
I, TONYA
CLICK IMAGE for Guest Contributor Terri L. Heard's take on the Tonya Harding movie
FOGO de CHÃO Brazilian Steak House
New Fall Menu! CLICK IMAGE TO VIEW
PHANTOM THREAD
Fashion Porn at the House of Woodcock. CLICK IMAGE for T&T #MiniMovieReview
THE SHAPE OF WATER
CLICK IMAGE: Guillermo del Toro has said his 25 years of filmmaking have lead him to The Shape of Water and it's by far the favorite of his movies; and my choice for Best of 2017
THE POST
CLICK IMAGE for#MiniMovieReview of Steven Spielberg's Political Drama starring Meryl Streep & Tom Hanks
THE HABIT BURGER GRILL in KOP
CLICK IMAGE for more on this new burger spot!
Coverage of Various Film Festivals in Philadelphia
CLICK IMAGE for: T&T's Picks out of all I saw in 2017. There's a video for details, but a list for quick consumption
FIFTY SHADES FREED
CLICK IMAGE for T&T #MiniMovieReview
FILM STARS DON'T DIE IN LIVERPOOL
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MOST ANTICIPATED MOVIES OF 2018
Got to be a guest on @Lambthe LAMBCAST #409 MOST ANTICIPATED MOVIES OF 2018. Gotta say, the more radio & podcasts I do, the less I'm annoyed with the sound of my voice. Check it out! https://t.co/QbzmVysaZw
Attended BMFI Cinema Classics Seminar on Hitchcock's REBECCA
WINE & BEER YAYS & NAYS
BLADE RUNNER 2049
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REBEL IN THE RYE
Biopic written & directed by Danny Strong about celebrated novelist J.D. Salinger. CLICK IMAGE to READ POST
CROWDFUNDING CAMPAIGN HIGHLIGHT
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SUNDANCE INSTITUTE IN PHILLY
Had my first Virtual Reality Experience at the Sundance New Frontier Lab Day CLICK IMAGE for details
CLICK IMAGE to check out pics from the GPFO event held at NU Millienium Studios
mother
I am so impressed with Silver Screen Riots review of Darren Aronofsky's mother! I just didn't feel like breaking it all down and finding the beauty in the madness. I understood the allegories, and appreciate there was a lot to dissect, but didn't have the energy to put it into words. Glad he did! CLICK IMAGE to READ MORE
TRIP TO SPAIN
3RD Installment of Food in Film Flick. CLICK IMAGE to Read Post
HOME AGAIN
CLICK IMAGE to check out our #MiniMovieReview on Reese Witherspoon movie written & directed by Nancy Meyers' daughter, Hallie Meyer-Shyer
FINDING MY OWN VOICE
Legendary Actress Kathleen Turner came to Philly perform a Cabaret at Philadelphia Theatre Company. CLICK IMAGE for details
BRIGSBY BEAR | STEP | PATTI CAKE$
Here's 3 fantastic Indie's I saw back to back, where the director and/or cast came to Philly for a post screening Q&A. CLICK IMAGE to view post & videos
UNLOCKED
Spy Thriller starring Noomi Rapace, Michaeal Douglas & John Malkovich CLICK IMAGE to Read Post
REMEMORY
CLICK IMAGE to check out post on Lionsgate film starring Peter Dinklage
WHAT CAN I SAY, I LOVE CAKE!
BLOGHER INFLUENCER
BLACKSTAR FILM FESTIVAL 2017
CLICK IMAGE to see all of T&T's Coverage of the 6th Annual BlackStar Film Festival
AN INCONVENIENT SEQUEL: TRUTH TO POWER
CLICK IMAGE to check out our post on Al Gore's follow up ot his 2006 doc "An Inconvenient Truth"
T&T Guests on Black Movie Podcast THE MICHEAUX MISSION
Got a chance to chat it up with Len & Vince about one of my favorite movies - Cassie Lemon's TALK TO ME LISTEN
5 Week Summer Bake-Off: BAKER'S CHOICE
I've been the center judge at a fun summer baking contest hosted by ChrystinaNoel party expert blogger. CLICK IMAGE to check out the post!
Contest started 8.16.17 ends 9.5.17 Prize Pack: Several boxes of Krusteaz NEW Protein Pancake Mixes | Whisk | Blender Bottle | Tote Bag! (Click Image to enter via Rafflecopter)
5 Week Summer Bake-Off: BREAD
I've been the center judge at a fun summer baking contest hosted by ChrystinaNoel party expert blogger. CLICK IMAGE to check out the post!
GIRLS TRIP
Not only a fantastically fun & funny summer movie, but it's propelled comedian/actress Tiffany Haddish into stardom! READ POST
NATIONAL CHEESECAKE DAY W/ CHEESECAKE FACTORY
CLICK IMAGE to read post on my Cheesecake Surprise!
THE HITMAN'S BODYGUARD
Click on Image to see T&T's #MiniMovieReview
5 Week Summer Bake-Off: BISCUITS
I've been the center judge at a fun summer baking contest hosted by ChrystinaNoel party expert blogger. CLICK IMAGE to check out the post!
5 Week Summer Bake-Off: Pies
Party Hostessing Blogger Chrystina Noel created a little friendly bake-off and yours truly got to judge! See Post
I think most of us agree the first Reality TV show was MTV's The Real World and the first competition reality show - Mark Burnett's Survivor. But did you know there was an event that both preceded and combined these two institutions? Back in 1982 the radio station WSAN came up with a publicity stunt that went viral, way before we ever knew the term, and in all places, Allentown PA. READ POST
Lightbox Film Center Lauch
See Q&A with filmmaker Allison Anders post screening of "Gas Food Lodging" SEE POST
Once again Tinsel & Tine aka Buttercake Tribble joined in the post screening podcast review for @blacktribbles SPOILED TRIBBLES This time for WONDER WOMAN! You'd think it would be the female Tribbles getting hype over this movie, but the passionate reviews came from @battribble & @supertribble
For some reason, the next day when I was going over the movie in my head, I kept seeing and hearing Ben Affleck, instead of Chris Evans, There's certainly no way to confuse Batman with Captain America, but it just felt like Gifted... READ POST
THE ZOOKEEPERS WIFE
The high stakes life or death tension of everyone, those in hiding and those doing the hiding is played well throughout the movie. My only problem was the casting of Chastain. I'm normally a fan...READ POST
I love that director Amma Assante who co-wrote and directed another movie I’m in love with called Belle(2013) has found another piece that combines history, race and romance all in one. Oyelowo and Pike have great chemistry, very believable as a couple, eventhough the two are separated throughout a good bit of the movie...READ POST
"Nocturnal Animals" is an intriguing, well-wrought film that explores themes of loyalty, materialism, choices made too quickly...READ POST
FLORENCE FOSTER JENKINS
Jenkins' vocal ambitions and imaginative costumes are of course the focal point of the movie, but it's Grant's role of common-law husband and manager, who's actually the protagonist of the film... READ POST
YANGMING WINE PAIRING DINNER
Fundraising Foodie Event to benefit Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation READ POST
Two 17 year-old starter entrepreneurs looking to enter the Philly Concierge business, contact T&T for some local promotion...READ POST
Pinterest Love
NATIONAL FOOD HOLIDAYS
SING
DOCTOR STRANGE
For years, I've been a student of the mind, body, spirit connection and the power of our subconscious minds over our existence. I haven't been a very good student, as I would be in a much better set of circumstances now; still... READ POST
TOKEN
Token Philly is a Grab + Go featuring Korean Barbecue, Bao Steamed Buns, Noodles and Rice Bowls. It's also a one stop for great carry out Beer Selections, Adult Milkshakes, Coffee, and more... by the same owners as Crabby Cafe next door... READ POST
25th Philadelphia Film Festival Coverage
Tinsel & Tine's Look at the 11 Days of #PFF25 READ POST
The 9th Annual Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival is Philly's home to the best films by and about Asian Americans. Opening Night Film "The Tiger Hunter" starring Danny Pudi READ MORE
T&T's sit down chat with TYLER PERRY
I’ve now interviewed both Ava DuVernay and Tyler Perry, do you realize how close that puts me to being in Oprah’s sphere! READ INTERVIEW
A TALE OF LOVE AND DARKNESS
Impressive directorial & screenwriting debut for Natalie Portman based on the memoirs of Amos Oz. Set in the 1940's "A Tale of Love and Darkness" is told through the eyes of a young boy during the period when Israel goes from being a British Mandate to its own Country. His experience is shaped more profoundly by his beautiful mother (Portman) who goes from telling fable like tales on a regular basis to slipping farther and farther into depression. Very melancholy film, but so beautifully captured. Early Oscar contender for sure!
An Evening of Culinary Excellence: CUISINE NOIR Celebrates the Smithsonian's NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AFR
This time T&T got a chance to cover a fabulous foodie event outside of Philly. I went to Washington D.C. for An Evening of Culinary Excellence hosted by Cuisine Noir magazine to celibrate the opening of the Smithsonian's NMAAHC READ POST
ZOMATO
FREE SCREENING PASSES
SUBSCRIBE to Tinsel &Tine's newsletter to be the first to receive movie passes from gofobo, Ritz Theaters, AMC, Cinemark, Regal and PFS Roxy
Mini Review of Warren Beatty's return to writing, directing and acting READ POST
THE BIRTH OF A NATION
I'm certainly not trying to be insensitive to the horrors of rape or suicide. But come on people, this movie is not the platform for that discussion. Nate Parker was not convicted of a crime and has grown up to have a beautiful family and a seven year journey to bringing forth his film - The Birth of a Nation...READ POST
ALMOST CHRISTMAS
Not only is Almost Christmas heartwarming, surprisingly well-written with plenty of laugh out loud moments, it's also a FOODIE FILM! READ POST
WARM STICKY BUN BREAD PUDDING
Grand Lux Cafe Exe. Pastry Chef, Ana Funes lead us into the cooking demo for Warm Sticky Bun Bread Pudding (served with whiskey sauce, sugared pecans and whipped cream). It's so easy even I can make it. In fact, I've added it to T&T's Pinterest Board of Easy Recipes. It's also the perfect dish to keep in mind to serve or bring as your Thanksgiving offering. READ POST
INFERNO
INFERNO Ron Howard’s 3rd Dan Brown novel brought to the screen, starring Tom Hanks as Symbologist Robert Langdon, finds himself in Italy suffering from amnesia and must rely heavily on a puzzle solving physician, (Felicity Jones) to figure out clues to Dante’s Inferno in order to save the world from a Biotech Billionaire’s mission to contaminate half the world’s population in order to protect the earth from overpopulation...SEE POST
SAUSAGE PARTY
Technically, There's No Such Thing as X-Rated Food, But This Does Give a Whole New Meaning to The Term Food Porn... READ POST
OPERATION AVALANCHE
When it comes to American conspiracy theories, #1 would be the circumstances around John F. Kennedy's assassination, #2 What really happened in Roswell, New Mexico, and #3 Would be the possibility the Apollo11 1969 Lunar Landing was faked, that Neil Armstrong never took neither step nor leap on the moon. If this conspiracy were true it begs the questions how do you make it look like astronauts landed on the moon, and who would be behind the subterfuge? Operation Avalanche
BEING WINED & DINED VIA OKCUPID
So regular readers know I decided to set up an OK Cupid profile to make it easier for Trekkie's to upload their info to enter T&T's be my Trekkie Guide Competition. I was going to take it down after the contest, but decided instead to change it to this:READ POST
QUEEN OF KATWE
Director Mira Nair brings us an authentic look at Uganda and a reminder that brilliance can happen anywhere and in anyone! 5 outta 5 score!
Never seen the original, so I can't compare or contrast or speak to whether or not the movie should have been remade - but what I can say is they found a perfect cast, and after all, a shootem up movie with a skimpy plot is all about the chemistry! Click to Like this pic on Instagram
LIGHT BETWEEN OCEANS & COMPLETE UNKNOWN
Musings on back to back movies featuring Rachel Weisz READ POST
Photo Album & Interview with DEB Organizer Natanya DiBona READ POST
GROUPON COUPON
Very excited about this great opportunity to partner with GROUPON COUPONS! I didn't even know they had in store and online coupons...I will feature 26 Groupon Coupons starting with the letter "Z" working my way up to "A", tied into a Philadelphia Location or a blog musing. SEE OFFERS
BLACKSTAR FILM FESTIVAL ROUND UP
The 5th Annual BlackStar Film Festival took place August 4-7, 2016. The last 2 years my schedule has only allowed me to attend opening night, this year it was nice to hang out and see more screenings and panels... Check Out Recap & Highlights
FOUNDING FOOTSTEPS BYOB TOUR OF PHILLY
Did you know that Benjamin Franklin not only created the very first Fire Department in Philadelphia, but that his entrepreneurial thinking also allowed him to capitalize on creating the very first Fire Insurance Company? Did you know the seat of our government would most likely have remained in Philadelphia if...READ POST
I may not have felt the movie was as strong as I was hoping it would be, but I'm in strong support of this female cast. All of them. That Leslie Jones Twitter attack is frightening, and even with all we've seen lately, shocking. READ POST
7 Mini Reviews of Summer Movies
Summer is not just a busy time for blockbuster releases, there's always a lot in general released in theaters - indies, horror and everything in between. So here's a quick run down of stuff I screened in the last 2 months. READ POST
qFLIX LGBTQ Philly Film Fest Coverage
Pictures, Q&A's, Mini Reviews, Interview READ POST
Hyatt Bellevue Renovations Unveiling
Recap of cocktail party/tour of Bellevue Hotel's new decor, led by Marguerite Rodgers Interior Design, which drew inspiration from the rich political, artistic, theatrical and musical history of Philadelphia View Photos
THE NEON DEMON
...didn't expect it to get so dark, nightmarish and sick...READ POST
BFFs
I got a chance to ask filmmakers/actors Tara Karsian & Andrea Grano about the LGBT aspect of their film BffsREAD POST
HOW TO PLAN AN ORGY IN A SMALL TOWN
How to Plan an Orgy in a Small Town is definitely an amusing flick, but I was surprised to find out it's 40% comedy and 60% soft porn. I figured the title was a great device to grab an audience's attention, but that the movie would hardly be about an actual orgy, but it's really about a series of.. READ POST
A BIGGER SPLASH
In A Bigger Splash Swinton plays Marianne Lane a famous female glam rock personality recovering from throat surgery. She not only can't speak above a whisper, she's been told to refrain from speaking while her vocal chords heal. What better place to recuperate than on a beautiful Mediterranean Island called Pantelleria in Italy...Read Post
The competition comprised of Philly mixologists and local bartenders offering their best Manhattan Cocktail for attendees to taste and judge. READ POST
RIP Garry Marshall
This man's talent for sentimentality & humor in both TV & movies brought so much to my formative years - Here's a T&T throw back PRETTY WOMAN CELEBRATES 25TH ANNIVERSARY post
It’s a year later and three of the Four Horsemen are still fugitives - Magician (J Daniel Atlas /Jesse Eisenberg), Mentalist (Merritt McKinney/Woody Harrelson) sleight-of-hander (Jack Wilder/Dave Franco) Isla Fisher was pregnant at the time of filming and declined to reprise her role as Illusionist Henley Reeves...READ POST
Philly Restaurant: WOK STREET
Chose from Wok Street’s signature bowls, or customize your own to satisfy the cravings that fit your mood. Start with your choice of rice or noodles then add your favorite mouth-watering protein and seasonal veggies. READ POST
Hillary and Clinton
Change Your Story Essay on PTC Play - we all have at least 3 stories- The one in our head; The one others perceive you as; And the one you'd like to shape to perfection. Think about yours...READ POST
Big Brothers Big Sisters Independence Region Lip Sync Battle
I was asked to interview one of the hosts of NBC's American Ninja Warrior Akbar Gbajabiamila when the show came to Philly recently. My availability couldn't accommodate the taping schedule, but I was happy to pass along the opportunity to fellow PHL Blogger Sarah Ramirez of Shades of Sarah who is a big fan of the show! READ POST
ENTER TO WIN A SAMPLE MULTI-PACK OF FARMER'S PANTRY CORNBREAD CRISPS
They are a delicious, addictive, healthy and natural snack made from fresh corn and other whole grains grown on American farms. They truly have become my 2nd favorite go to snack and I do A LOT of snacking! READ POST
WEINER
PMA & Positano Coast Event Art Inside Out
Next time you're walking around Old City check out the reproductions of PMA masterpieces now adorning the streets - an initiative funded by John S. and James L. Knight Foundation to bring art into communities. View Photos
“She [Patty played by Julia Roberts] really is the hero of the movie and is able to multi-task and get more done in this crisis than even authorities,” Foster concedes of the rare alpha female on-screen. “She’s producing Clooney’s survival.” And unlike many of Hollywood’s other lifesaving women, Roberts gets to do so without being vacuum-packed into spandex and six-inch heels... READ POST
Benjamin Foods 5th Annual Food Show
Attended this fun, foodie Trade Show! Did some networking in terms of partnering with food brands as a blog influencer. See Photo Album
THE PHL BLOG CONNECT CONFERENCE
Photo Recap of Blogger's Conference at Saxby's Headquarters Read Post
9th Annual Philly Ind. Film Fest & South St. Spring Fest
I think the critics have been way too hard on the movie (29% RT), not that it dampened the box office - $424M opening weekend! Check out our likes and dislikes for this DC Universe Blockbuster READ POST
WIN ONE OF THESE 2 NEW SPRING COOKBOOKS!
This month's Foodie Giveaway: THE QUICK SIX FIX by Stuart O’Keeffe (March 2016) Stuart demonstrates how to cut kitchen time, save money, and get out of the kitchen in thirty minutes or less. LOSE WEIGHT BY EATING by Audrey Johns (April 2016) who takes more than 130 recipes that are typically full of unhealthy processed foods and empty calories—recipes we simply shouldn’t eat every day—and creates skinny versions. ENTER VIA RAFFLECOPTER
LUNA CAFE
T&T: I always wonder how people come up with the name for their restaurants. Do you feel a particular pull from the moon, inspiring the name Luna Cafe? READ POST
Foodie Doc featuring Philly Restauranteur Michael Solomonov Contest Ends 3/20/16 Screening 3/28/16 READ MORE
GRAND LUX CAFE
Saturday & Sunday Brunch - Reminder, March 25th is National Waffle Day! READ POST
IMLI INDIAN KITCHEN
Arshad "Mo" Chugtai, former Cafe Spice owner opened Imili Indian Kitchen (BYOB) May of 2015, but recently brought in new Executive Chef Bimol V. Sarkar, who has completely changed their menu. So Craig should probably go back for a second review...READ POST
EYE IN THE SKY
Unfolding almost in real-time as it details an operation to take out a group of terrorists in Nairobi, led by Helen Mirren’s determined Colonel Powell, the film is an exciting thriller and intriguing portrait of people under pressure wrestling with their conscience and careers as the clock ticks...
ZOOTOPIA
Love @DisneyZootopia It's like an episode of "Castle" they shoulda had Stana Katic & Nathan Fillion do the voices!
THE PERFECT MATCH
Terrence J (Jenkins) from "E news" & "Think Like a Man", plays Charlie Mack, a ladies man who accepts a bet with his "boyz" to date the same woman until one of the guy's wedding. That woman is model Eva, played by new comer and R&B singer Cassie Ventura. Eva only wants a hook up type of relationship so she's not deceived, she knows about the bet from the beginning, which I do like... READ POST
WHISKEY TANGO FOXTROT
Whiskey Tango Foxtrot is funny, but the kind of comedy I like, where the tone is laced with the humor of the situation, rather than situational comedy... READ MORE
FIVE NIGHTS IN MAINE
Writer/Director Maris Curran was in Philly to screen her Indie Film which stars Dianne Wiest & David Oyelowo READ POST
RACE
Red Carpet Slideshow, Movie Commentary, Panel Discussion Excerpts READ POST
CHITIKA
Thumbtack
A Diet of Pig Brains Keeps One Civilized: PRIDE & PREJUDICE & ZOMBIES
I'm always fascinated by this ever present theme in our collective unconscious that one day we will no longer be worried about race, creed, politics or gender, instead the only separation will be Alive vs Undead! READ POST
The bear attack, the most realistic application of CGI I’ve ever seen. Without providing a lot of information about the characters, this visceral approach to filmmaking engenders a good deal of empathy for Glass as he struggles to survive... READ POST
THE BIG SHORT
So what's the best way to absorb, digest and find interest in dense material? Give it humor. That's exactly what both the author of the book, Michael Lewis (Moneyball) and particularly director Adam McKay (Anchorman 1&2, Step Brothers) did with The Big Short. Not broad comedy... READ POST
HOW TO BE SINGLE
By Tinsel & Tine Contributor CONNOR BARTHOLOMEW When I saw the first trailer for Christian Ditter’s How to Be Single I was skeptical. As someone who is single in her twenties, I've pretty much heard it all: the You Just Haven't Met The Right Persons, the pitying glances, the acknowledging nods...READ POST
Philly Food Truck Series: GRUBAHOLICS
I don't know why it takes me so long to get back to the Philly Food Truck series. They really are some of my most popular posts! Here's the first for 2016 featuring GRUBAHOLICS! READ POST
THE DANISH GIRL
This is where Redmanyne deserves his Golden Globe nomination, because each scene you see him becoming more and more Lili until it's almost like a split personality disorder where Lili becomes the dominant personality. When he's not Lili, he's also no longer Einar, but some disturbingly androgynous amalgamation. In a subtle twist, the adorable and sensual Gerda... READ POST
TRUMBO
Going into the movie, I knew what it was about, but I was under the impression it was Hollywood vs The Government. I never knew Hollywood turned on itself. Members of the HUAC were made up of Hollywood insiders like John Wayne (David James Elliott), Hedda Hopper (Helen Mirren) and Ronald Reagan. Others like ...READ POST
BROOKLYN
Hornby observes: "I think Eilis can see a life in America and she can see a life in Ireland, but she cannot maintain those two pictures at once. She knows you cannot square these two lives. So I think that's how she momentarily manages to love two people at once, because they are in separate worlds. But ultimately, she has to live in just one."READ MORE
Joy is loosely based on the life of QVC darling and household product inventor Joy Mangano, who is a producer on the movie. It's a rags to riches story we can all relate to, as most people at some point, come up with a good idea that you wish you knew how to manufacture, produce, market and see it become a money maker. READ POST
History buffs Chris Younge and Jason Dills felt when naming their restaurant, a nod to historic Philadelphia was in order - "The Little Lion" was the nickname for Alexander Hamilton, the nation's first Treasury secretary; not a bad idea to connect the name of any business to money! READ MORE
REVOLUTION TACO
But my favorite sampling of the night wasn't even a taco, and happened to be vegetarian, I can't wait to go back for the Spinach & Fontina Empanada! The seasoned wilted spinach and piping hot cheese, dripping from a crusty pie twinkling with a dusting of sea salt: 4 TINES and a steal at $4 READ POST
Golden Globes Round Up 2016 /Oscar Boycott Dilemma
It's shocking the number of comments from people complaining that race becomes a factor when it comes to Academy Award nominations . They actually pretend to believe the nominees are chosen based solely on a system of excellence. If that were the case, how could Ryan Coogler be overlooked for Best Director? READ MORE
Spy, however, shows all of McCarthy's range, including some major action scenes. And the one liners - many of which I'm certain just spewed out of her in the heat of the moment, had our audience laughing so hard you missed the next two or three lines of the movie...READ POST
Back when N.W.A. was blowin' up, I would have been listening to Prince, Luther Vandross, Whitney Houston and believe it or not, The Judds. Yet, I'd a had to been living under a rock not to be aware of Gangsta Rap and groups like N.W.A and Public Enemy...READ POST
RECAP of Tinsel & Tine's 11 Days of #PFF24READ POST
STAR WARS MINI REVIEW
I am by far certainly NO expert on the Star Wars Franchise. Seen all 7 movies, but not with any depth of viewing. But as movie-goer, I really enjoyed Star Wars:The Force Awakens not just because you get to spend time with the original cast, but in terms of good story telling. I felt all the prequels with Hayden Christiansen & Natalie Portman were mostly forgettable because George Lucas is so obsessed with CGI and battles that there's very little to connect to in terms of heart & story. JJ Abrams knows how to create balance!
GUEST POST: RORIE STILL
I asked Rorie who has written a compilation of Sci-Fi/Fantasy stories called "Flashbang: Sci-Fi Stories That Will Blow Your Mind" to weigh in on her TOP 5 READ POST
VOICELESS (Philly Made Indie)
It's no wonder the movie took Necerato 4 years to complete, it's a wonder it came to fruition this soon. After all, most Indie films require ample time to procure funding, and often are delayed due to working around schedules dictated by budget concerns; but then you throw a hot button issue like abortion into the mix and you're really working up hill. READ POST
YAKITORI BOY
Not sure why I've never noticed Yakitori Boy before, I've eaten at restaurants very near it, and done karaoke in Chinatown, but this party was my first experience of the place. The bottom level looks like a traditional Japanese restaurant. The 2nd level opens up to a bar/lounge featuring karaoke and private karaoke rooms. The private rooms encourage music themes like 80, 90's, Country, R&B etc...READ POST
BESITO MEXICAN RESTAURANT
I really wasn't expecting the exterior or interior to be so glamorous. When you hear a restaurant is part of a shopping center, even one as upper class as Suburban Square, your expectations are lowered; but get that thinking out of your head because Besito looks and feels more like a resort restaurant in a luxury beach town.READ POST
IN THE HEART OF THE SEA
I'm not that big on survivalist tales, although I like tales of adventure, but there's a difference. Tales of adventure are normally more fantastical and of the characters choosing. Survivalists stories are normally brutally realistic and a happenstance that the character couldn't avoid or had to embark on due to needing funds...READ POST
RENATA'S KITCHEN
The first thing that caught my attention on the menu was the Lemon-Poppy Pancakes - full stack stuffed with lemon-poppy ricotta & lemon custard. I'm big on anything lemon flavored and my all-time favorite muffin is a Lemon Poppy Seed and Pancakes, well, you know!... my only hesitation was that $11.50 price tag...
FIFTY SHADES: BOOK TO FILM COMPARISON
In terms of themes, EL James wrote a classic romantic tale of a wounded man and innocent woman meeting and falling in love, not unlike many such stories in literature - Jane Eyre for instance... READ POST
Empire is TV, but it represents movies and Philly in so many ways, so we love covering this campy, music driven, outrageous black soap opera: RECAPS Season 2 RECAPS Season 1
Interview: Jussie Smollett & Bryshere "Yazz" Gray
Tinsel & Tine got a chance to be on a Conference Call with two of the Lyon brothers. Here's a video excerpt of the audio from the call. LISTEN
LOVE THE COOPERS- INTERVIEW WITH DIRECTOR
Got a chance to chat with vetran Hollywood director and writer, Jessie Nelson about her past and present projects READ POST
STUDIO MOVIE GRILL - Upper Darby PA
SMG modernized the traditional movie-going experience by combining first-run movies with in-theater dining READ MORE
FORBES UNDER 30 SUMMIT Chef Contest RECAP
The food festival, held at The Kimmel Center, featured several young chefs from the esteemed Forbes 30 Under 30 list, who competed for the title of America's best young chef. Click to see Winner
SISTERS IN THE STRUGGLE
Discussion of 3 Female Driven Movies Screened Back to Back - "Suffragette", "Freeheld" and "The Keeping Room" READ POST
PEANUTS Celebrates the 47th Anniversary of “Franklin,” its First African-American Character! #Frank
Interview with MarMar & Harriet Glickman by contributor Diane Roka READ POST
CAFE BREEZE COMES TO PHILLY
Deepak Ohri, the Thai-based hotel magnate, plans to open a lebua Hotels & Resorts dining experience here in Philadelphia. READ POST
BIG STONE GAP
Hard to get passed some script issues with #BIGSTONEGAP , but I will say, that wedding cake with hot pink frosting and hot pink cake looked SO good. I wonder how many takes Judd had to do eating the cake? That's when I'd love to be a stand in! READ POST
Dianne Moore founder of MOOREBETTERFOOD of Bala Cynwyd opened up her very lovely home to me, my videographer Jessica Lucky and Illustrator Diane Roka for an interview about women's health, nutrition and eating habits READ POST
THROW BACK: LIMITLESS
Anybody else watch the premiere of "Limitless" on CBS, based on the 2011 Bradley Cooper movie? I thought it was pretty decent. Cooper made a guest appearance on the show. Which reminded me he was also at the "Limitless" movie screening 4yrs ago and I had a chance to ask him a question but totally choked READ POST
NAACP CONVENTION RECAP
As you all know, Tinsel & Tine is hardly a political or socio-economic blog, but it does celebrate Philadelphia, and having both President Barack Obama and President Bill Clinton make appearances; along with a great many tourism $$$ pouring into the "City of Brotherly Love", qualifies as something to celebrate.. READ POST
EAST COAST WINGS
With all those wing flavors, believe it or not, Honey BBQ is their most popular, so our ECW Wing Flight didn't consist of flavors, instead we were served the Honey BBQ, but in 9 degrees of HEAT! READ POST
Viola Davis
Congratulations to Viola Davis for winning Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama series and for giving an amazing speech. Only winner of the night who actually prepared to win! #Emmys
A WALK IN THE WOODS
"A Walk in the Woods" is nothing like Reese Witherspoon's raw, lonely, penance walk in "Wild". This movie is mainly a buddy comedy, with a toned down comic edge. It's never boring like Redford's lonely sea voyage "All is Lost" (click for T&T post). Thankfully, these guys do get off the trail sometimes and stay in a hotel or go to a diner, which gave me relief watching them come up out of the rain, snow, and threats of bears... READ POST
For a relatively new director, Nima Nourizadeh does a fantastic job keeping the action tight and a good balance between fun, fight stunts and a "save the girl" love story; due in great part to a very workable script by Max Landis. READ POST
FANTASTIC FOUR
The Black Tribbles were in the house, so after the screening of Fantastic Four 2015, they rounded up a group of us movie writer/bloggers for a Fantastic hash session and we dissected the hell outta this flick, both the merits and the misfires! READ POST
My sister LeVonne's birthday (7/7) just happened to fall on a Tuesday this year, which made it perfect for checking out Mercato (1216 Spruce St, Philadelphia, PA 19107) Tuesday Tasting Menu - 3 Courses for $33.00 #TastingTuesdays READ POST
MISSION IMPOSSIBLE
The franchise more than holds up! - Tinsel & Tine
ANT-MAN
Our look at the Marvel Cinematic Universe of Ant-Man READ POST
Vendy Awards 2015 RECAP
MAGIC MIKE XXL: Review and Interview with Stephen "tWitch" Boss
I got a chance to sit down with tWitch at the Sofitel Hotel (120 S 17th St) in Philadelphia. We talked about the mirror dance he does with Tatum in the movie - the perks of being a DJ on "Ellen" - What he likes to eat when he goes home to Alabama and more... He seems like a grounded guy, always willing to give credit to others, the type of person you're happy to see things happening for! Watch Video
We met two @MarvelExperience executives in the parking lot as we were leaving, who let us take pictures with Thor's real hammer and Captain America's real shield from the movie Avengers Age of Ultron - They're heavy! More on Marvel Experience
Chef-Partner Guillermo Pernot of Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar is roasting a pig for 8 hours using a “Caja China,” or Chinese roasting box every Monday night, right out on 2nd street in Old City Philly...READ POST
LOOK LIKE A LOCAL:Travelers Not Tourists a new travel and tourist podcast that interviews local residents to find the hidden gems within each city featured. Each episode is an interview in a new destination with a resident who calls it home -Tinsel & Tine got to be interviewed for episode 21 LISTEN
JURASSIC WORLD
Jurassic World takes us back to Jurassic Park, only now it's 20 years later, and the amusement park has become as common as Disney World, even though you have to travel to Costa Rica to get there. John Hammond's vision for Jurassic Park (homage is paid with original logos and other references to the 1st movie) is in the hands of ... READ POST
DuBu Restaurant Opening (Korean BBQ)
The name DUBU is short for Sundubu Jjigae the name of a popular, traditional Korean soup. Dubu Soup is usually made with pieces of pork, small clams (also know as cockles), red-pepper powder, chopped garlic, a few other spices and beef broth.. READ POST
BACKSTAGE NOW CASTING
"Backstage landed me three lead features, MTV and Google commercials, two short films, and several music videos all in five months!"
– Taylor Lashae
D'Artagnan Event Recap
Philadelphia Art Alliance was also a perfect venue for D'Artaganan, gourmet food purveyor of organic, antibiotic-free meat, poultry, game and truffles, to hold a 5-course dinner featuring an assortment of decadent dishes highlighting D’Artagnan duck, lamb, foie gras, Mangalica ham, caviar, cuck bacon, chorizo, quail eggs, truffles and squab; all in celebration of the company's 30th Anniversary! READ POST
A Revlock Perspective: INSIDIOUS CHAPTER 3: Into the Further 4D Experience
I didn’t know how to prepare for the Into the Further 4D Experience. The team at Allied warned it would be a mix of frights old-fashioned and newfangled, a fresh take on the haunted house model, a virtual preview of the third chapter of the Insidious saga…READ POST
Philly Filmmaker: Aleksandra Svetlichnaya
Cosplay this is a term I was unfamiliar with till I attended the Philly preview screening of writer/director Aleksandra Svetlichnaya's short film DINNER.. Here's my interview with this up and coming Ukrain born/Philly bred writer/director.. READ POST
Pretty Plum Sugar Partner
Dinner and a Movie: PITCH PERFECT 2 REVIEW AT BAHAMA BREEZE
Check out the video which features Kem of KemKlicks and I discussing the summer sequel Pitch Perfect 2 over dinner at Bahama Breeze Island Grille in King of Prussia WATCH VIDEO
FREETOWN: Interview with director Garrett Batty by T&T Contrib Terri Heard
All of which makes independent filmmaker Garrett Batty’s completion of “Freetown” such an accomplishment. “Freetown,” which is playing nationwide, dramatizes the riveting true story of six Mormon missionaries whose faith underwent the ultimate test when they became trapped in Liberia during the 1989 civil war... READ POST
AVENGERS; AGE OF ULTRON
For the first time, I finally began to care about Clint Barton / Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner) he's much more than the expendable guy throwing arrows in this movie. He even acknowledges the fact that he's kinda useless compared to the superhuman strengths of the others.READ POST
Interview: Mekhi Phifer for "Insurgent"
Got a chance to talk to Mekhi Phifer at the Four Seasons Philadelphia, about being a part of the Divergent Series: "Insurgent".
On a Food n Film note: Mekhi was hoping to have a Philly Cheese Steak while he was here but ran out of time. The Four Seasons is going to have to set up a delivery system with Pat's or Geno's, cause all the celebs want them when they come for these press junkets.
Mehkhi also answers this question: If you could recreate any movie and put yourself in the lead roll, what would it be?
So check me out in my first on camera interview And CANDI's CORNER INSURGENT Review
Muvee
eBOOKS
ME N MO MEATBALLS & MORE
I got to try, well, try implies I took a bite - I ate 6 or more meatballs, each with its own sauce, along with a generous portion of perfectly weighted Gnocci, all enjoyed with fresh baked focaccia bread...READ POST
BLACK TRIBBLES
TINSEL & TINE'S RADIO DEBUT (Thurs 1/15/15) - I turned the tables on the BLACK TRIBBLES and interviewed them about their black nerdness and 2015 Upcoming Sci-Fi flicks LISTEN TO PODCAST
SELMA Director Ava DuVernay with Tinsel & Tine Editor Le Anne Lindsay
Director Ava DuVernay was in Philadelphia the week before Christmas on a press junket for her stirring and beautifully shot film SELMA. READ INTERVIEW
The film brings us into the world of Diane "Die" Despres (Annie Dorval) an overly made up, aging beauty with a nice figure in her sequined jeans. Her manner is frank and frequently too loud. She's what you'd call a natural survivor. READ POST
GOLD MEDAL WINE CLUB
SEYMOUR: AN INTRODUCTION
SEYMOUR: AN INTRODUCTION is the kind of documentary you'd stumble upon at a small film festival, in between two other films you really came to see. It's only Ethan Hawke's name and longtime connections in the business that could have pushed the film to the forefront.READ POST
Mouth.com
Mouth.com - Our goal is to help you discover and get the best, most delicious and most interesting indie food products and to help indie makers grow their business.
The Wrecking Crew
Covered "The Wrecking Crew" Music Doc during PFS/XPN Music Film Fest, so glad this entertaining, important piece of history is now in theaters! READ POST
Debbie Allen Does Philly
Debbie Allen graciously gave a free "Inside the Actors Studio" type visit to Philly at International House on July 2, 2014. Full of saucy humor and passion, Ms. Allen lectured on creativity, her life's journey, what it means to be an artist, her relationship with her sister Phylicia Rashād, the 18 years it took to get AMISTAD made and so much more... Click HERE to see video excerpt of her address to us lucky enough to attend this inspiring and insightful event.
Philly is #3 on New York Times List of Places to Go in 2015
A series of projects has transformed Philadelphia into a hive of outdoor urban activity. READ ARTICLE
Glowing Review of Tinsel & Tine by The Bicycle-Chef
LeAnne started blogging for a class assignment a few years back. In her funny, irreverent style, she was challenged to think of a pithy blog name and she blurted out, Suck My Pretty Toes! For a year or two, she blogged under this moniker, writing about her favorite pastimes, eating and seeing movies. As her audience grew and her hobby became a bigger passion, she changed the name over to Tinsel and Tine Reel and Dine, to reflect her blog's mission. Tinsel being Hollywood, aka, Tinsel Town. And Tine for the tines of a fork. Making it a bit more clever, she rates her food and restaurant reviews on a scale of fork tines; none, one, two, three, four, as a restaurant or the meal deserves...READ MORE
UPCOMING FILM FESTIVALS
Want to Know1 What Film Festiv1als Are Taking Place and Where? Click HERE
Silver Sites
Links to businesses, people, places and sites that are doing good works, are spiritual in nature, connected to Philly, or all of the above - See list below
It’s a year later and three of the Four Horsemen are still fugitives - Magician (J Daniel Atlas /Jesse Eisenberg), Mentalist (Merritt McKinney/Woody Harrelson) sleight-of-hander (Jack Wilder/Dave Franco) Isla Fisher was pregnant at the time of filming and declined to reprise her role as Illusionist Henley Reeves...READ POST
CLICK IMAGE to check out our post on Al Gore's follow up to his 2006 Documentary "An Inconvenient Truth"
Definition:
1tin·sel Pronunciation: \ˈtin(t)-səl something superficially attractive or glamorous but of little real worth.
Bread Footnote
“If thou tastest a crust of bread, thou tastest all the stars and all the heavens.” 1) Do they bring bread before the meal? 2) Is the bread good enough to be worth all the extra carb calories? 3) Is the bread warm? 4) Are you offered both room temperature butter and an olive oil dipping sauce? 5) Do they offer to bring you more bread!
TRENDING RESTAURANTS IN PHILLY! CLICK HERE TO VOTE ON YOUR FAVORITE!
Tinsel & Tine is a member of Food Bloggers Association
Behind the Scenes look at Food in Film
Food stylist Susan Spungen discusses some of the food that she created for “Julie & Julia,” (click on photo to read)
Click for Philly BYOB Restaurant Guide
10 Things to Do in Philly
LAMB
Tinsel & Tine was nominated for a VBA
bloglovin
group of 10,000 women bloggers dedicated to supporting one another by leaving comments
The Blogstress Network
Female Bloggers Unite
Contributor from 2010 - 2012
About This Blog
is about discovering what I find pleasing in screening & eating - in case you missed it, the name is a play on Tinseltown using the Tines of a Fork.
Feel free to send me info on a film or new restaurant you'd like me to highlight. -tinseltine@gmail.com
Will there ever be a cap on movie prices?
Will we one day pay $20 a pop?
Why don't we pay on a scale?
A crap movie like everything Adam Sandler has ever done should cost about $4.50. Big action movies like"Lord of the Rings", "Iron Man," "Transformers" are worth $10. Woody Allen movie or something like "Silver Linings Playbook" $6-$7. A chick flick or light comedy $5.75 and most Indie Films $5.25.
You could even do it by seasons - all summer block busters from May to August - $10 Sept - November 15th $3.50 - $4 Back to $10 for Thanksgiving and Christmas etc...
Or you can do it by A Actors ($9 - $10), B Actors ($6 - $7) TV actors on the big screen ($3.50 - $4)
Surely I'm not the first person to realize this makes sense. Has it been voted on in the Motion Picture Industry and then vetoed? If so, why?
2012/2013 Table of Contents (Film) check archives for posts from 2009/2010/2011