Yes, you heard me. There’s a woman named Paprika – Paprika Steen to be exact. Many film enthusiasts would deem her a rare gem from Denmark, continually turning out tour-de-force onscreen performances. Her native Denmark regard her as “the” actress of our times. Others have regarded her as the Danish-American Meryl Streep.  No matter how the media or public views her, one thing is certain – Paprika has begun to make a dent in the upcoming Oscar season for her lauded performance in Applause, and I have the pleasure of being a part of her ‘coming to Hollywood’ venture.

Having joined the World Wide Motion Pictures Corporation (World Wide) family some months ago, I was excited to delve into the film distribution project that was Applause, particularly to infiltrate numerous marketing mediums in order to put the word out about Paprika’s Oscar-worthy performance. With World Wide’s diligence in full swing, it was no surprise that we would begin Oscar-qualifying runs on Friday, December 3.

Making its official debut to American audiences this coming January, Applause tells the story of a recovering alcoholic stage actress seeking to regain control over her life while reconnecting with her two young sons and struggling with the pressures of middle age. This intense and intricate personal struggle reveals themes that women especially can connect with, including a mother’s relationship with her children and aging. The film has been showcased at numerous film festivals, such as Toronto, London, and Hamptons International Film Festivals, winning recognition for Paprika’s bravura performance as “Thea.”

Paprika, known for her roles in The Celebration, Open Hearts, and Adam’s Apples, is rapidly gaining acclaim in the United States. Notably, her performance in Applause has been praised by such respected critics as Roger Ebert, remarking in the Chicago Sun Times, “An extraordinary performance by Paprika Steen.” Also, The New York Times recently reviewed the film, noting Paprika’s onscreen presence as “one of the best screen performances of the year.” If Marion Cotillard’s Oscar-winning performance in La Vie En Rose (2008) is any indication of a foreign film actress’s odds of taking home the Golden Boy against well-known American actresses, then Paprika has a shot. And if Paprika’s outstanding performance is any indication of a deserving win, then I believe she has a very good shot.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E5vywJcRHAw[/youtube]

Photo Credit: World Wide

Mellori Velasquez is a former Beauty Chatter who continues to provide fabulous posts for Beauty Chat. For more information on the film, please contact: wwmpc@wwmpc.com

New breast implants, new music vid. What’s next for The Hills‘ Heidi Montag? Let’s hope, an Oscar-winning performance, similar to the likes of her celebutante comrads, with Spencer Pratt as her leading man;)

[video]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6hlofmmQAnY[/video]

Go ahead, comment away!

With over 55 million records sold worldwide and five attractive ladies sexily-dressed for your viewing pleasure, the Spice Girls have arguably been one of Britain’s hottest imports. But, after divorcing back in 2000, it seems hits like Wannabe and Spice Up Your Life became dissipating tunes of the past, as the only ode to the fivesome’s fame lived on through Posh Spice with her marriage to soccer prodigy, David Beckham.

As with most Bubblegum pop-troupes, the Spice Girls reunited at a largely-broadcasted event that had media gossipers galore in frenzy. At the annual Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show last month, they (minus the youthful “Teen Beat” undertone) strutted on stage with synchronized, yet somewhat overly rehearsed, dance moves. I must say, however, since pinup couture guarantees a fashion stamp of approval in my book, their 40s post-war ensembles were absolutely adorable! Now, after their debut reunion performance, it seems like the media can’t get enough of them.

What do you think Beauty Chatters? Has the English-accented gang once again added some spice to your life…or not?

[video]http://youtube.com/watch?v=x7Aeqjdkp4U[/video]

~Mellori V.

I’ll admit, I am a HUGE Gwen Stefani fan — today and yesterday.

And I will always have a place in my heart for the “Old Gwen.” Tweens and pop fans may not be too familiar with her days in the ska-rock band No Doubt (can’t wait for their new album!); they may be so immersed in her Harajuku aura and haute couture fashion that they may not realize how much she has grown up, trading in her steel-toe Doc Martens for Dior heels. I DO appreciate Gwen’s entrepeneurial spirit these days, though. Let’s give it to her — the only girl to rock out with all boys for over 15 years has earned her right to design a fashion line, create a fragrance, and become one of the gossip magazines’ favorite celebrity mothers to showcase.

She looks totally fierce in her new video, “Early Winter,” which is off her her 2nd solo album. Check out her makeup in the mirror scene (black turtleneck)… I love the look!

[video]http://youtube.com/watch?v=EFVTW6-2D7Q[/video]

~ Elana

From the woman who has attempted everything from music to designing handbags, Gwen Stefani now has a perfume! The new scent has a little something for everyone. It is clean and fresh, with a hint of floral and musk. Similar to Gwen Stefani, it is a wonderful mix of fun, sophistication, and style. She can now add fragrance designer to her list of business ventures that have become overwhelmingly popular (even recently scoring a deal with Hewlett Packard!).

Check out the gorgeous Gwen Stefani in the commercial for her L perfume:

[video]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6nW54YPfF7k[/video]

The L perfume definitely holds true to the bright colors of the L.A.M.B. clothing and accessory line.

~ Jacquie

Product image: http://shop.nordstrom.com

After leaving Miami Ink with a few tears and the desire to head back to her natural habitat – Los Angeles – Reality TVs most-beloved female tattoo artist Kat Von D continues to create black and white portraits and leave lasting impressions on her clients. So this season on The Learning Channel (TLC), the world can see how the body truly is a canvas by watching Kat Von D and her team of reputable tattoo artists turn it out at LA Ink.

Whether you’re more inclined to undergo breast augmentation versus a tattoo, or wish to view tattoo removal before and after pictures and find out about the cost of tattoo removal instead of visiting Hollywood’s LA Ink with Kat Von D, TLC definitely allows you to enjoy your Tuesday night with an hour-long segment at 10 p.m. Whatever your idea of beauty is, you will be fascinated…to say the least!

[video]http://youtube.com/watch?v=Xn5fQW0wm9A[/video]

Beauty Chat gives you personal stories, glimpses of day spa experiences, what’s new in plastic surgery, fashion favorites, and more. We especially appreciate and embrace the diverse meaning of beauty; it means something different for everyone.

So Rock On Kat Von D – business owner, fashion trendsetter, and talented tattoo artist!

~ Elana

Photo Credit: http://www.myspace.com/highvoltagetattoo

What are your thoughts?

The still shots above are before and after pictures from the YouTube video below, titled “From Fat to Skinny.” This definitely makes you wonder about what is actually real in the world of modeling. Honestly, photoshop is pretty amazing! 

 [video]http://youtube.com/watch?v=-5Qv6ykFhYc[/video]

~ Elana