Julian Ayrs...Happy Birthday George Clooney, Wllie Mays & moi!

Today, a Happy Birthday greeting goes out to Gorgeous George.

No, I am not referring to the colorful wrestler of yesterday, who delighted fans on old boob tube Saturday afternoons with his wild antics in-and-out-of the ring.

Of course, I mean superstar George Clooney - who, like myself - celebrates another anniversary of his birth.

As I noted jokingly on Facebook yesterday, although George and I share a birthday, there are some differences in respect to our status on this mortal coil.

I am just as sexy as George - according to friends - but the superstar actor has quite a bit more moolah  (big bucks) than I do!

If any of my readers caught the recent article I penned on "time twins" (which took a glance at the realm of astrology and the mysteries of the heavens) the reason for that should be easy to fathom.

Post: 04/15/2011

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2011/04/astrologydarwins-theory-proves-occult.html

Though born on the day, we were not born under the same unique set of astrological circumstances under the mid-heavens when we both entered this world to play out our destinies according to the cosmic design.

Other famous (celebrated) individuals with a May 6th birthday include Willie Mays (baseball great), Rudolph Valentino (legendary silent film star), Sigmund Freud (noted dream analyst), and Orson Welles (genius film director).

Curiously, there appear to be some uncanny coincidences in respect to our chosen paths in life that have not gone unnoticed by moi!

A handful of us have been involved in the film industry in some capacity - either directing, acting, or film critiquing - for example.

I attribute my tendency to experience bizarre, symbolic - sometimes suggestively sexual dreams - to Freud's influence, by the way!

Intriguing!

In different cultures birthdays are celebrated differently.

Muslims not only celebrate their own birthdays, but those of the Prophets, as well.

In the Jewish faith, particular birthdays are singled out and give rise to ritual ceremonies.

For example, a bar mitzvah is held for 13-year-old-Jewish boys which is benchmark in manhood.

The tradition of birthday parties started in Europe.

It was originally feared that evil spirits were particularly attracted to people on their birthdays - so, to protect them -  friends and family would ceremoniously present their loves ones with good thoughts and wishes.

Early Christians did not celebrate Christ's birth, though, because they considered the celebration of any one's birth to be a pagan custom.

Jehovah's Witnesses - and some Sacred Name groups - refrain from celebrating birthdays on the basis that they are portrayed in a negative light in the Bible and have historical connections with magic and superstitions.

Some Saints are remembered by a liturgical feast.

Colored lanterns at the Lotus Lantern Festival in Seoul (South Korea) are facilitated to honor the Buddha's birthday

The ancient Greeks believed that each person had a protective spirit that attended the person's birth and thereafter watched over him or her.

That spirit "had a mystic relation with the God on whose birthday the individual was born," according to the book "The Lore of Birthdays".

When Christ was born, the relevancy of his entrance onto the grand stage, was heralded by Angels who exalted to the Shepherds.

"I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people."

"The Savior - yes, the Messiah, the Lord - has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David!  And, you will recognize him by this sign. You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger."

Suddenly, the Angel was joined by a vast host of others - the armies of heaven - praising God and saying.

"Glory to God in highest heaven and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.""

In different cultures birthdays are celebrated differently.

North America families often mark a girl's 16th birthday with a Sweet sixteen party.

In Hispanic-American countries the quinceañera traditionally marks a girl's 15th birthday.

In India, Hindus have the 12th or 13th birthday replaced with a grand "thread ceremony."

The child takes a blessed thread and wears it to symbolize his coming of age. This is called the Upanayana.

This ceremony is practiced amongst boys in the Hindu Brahmin culture.

In some Asian countries that follow the Zodiac calendar, there is a tradition of celebrating the 60th birthday.

In Japan there is a "Coming of Age Day" for all of those who have turned 20.

In North America, family and friends often prepare a special cake for the celebrant - with candles on top marking the years - in addition to offering up gifts.

Usually, this is a joyous harmless occasion for the individual who is often shy about revealing their age as time marches on.

Fortunately, for citizens of the world, a handful of old customs have fallen by the wayside.

For example, according to the Greek scriptures, King Herod beheaded "John the Baptizer" at his birthday celebration.

Today, individuals are more inclined to hear enthusiastic words instructing them to try to their best to -  "Blow out the candles"  - rather than a more ominous one uttered up in the dark ages.

"Off with his head!"

Personally, I intend to treat myself to a movie and delicious supper, and count my blessings.

And, take a moment to wish George Clooney and Willie Ways, all my best.

Happy Birthday George!

Happy Birthday Willie!

Many happy returns, eh?

http://www.thetattler.biz

The American...George Clooney excels in thriller! Morality tale with Hitchcock undertones!

Occasionally, a compelling film with thought-provoking masterful celluloid strokes splashes across the silver screen, and subsequently, resonates with an audience (in spite of the fact it’s not a typical Hollywood-style big-budget smash-up or special effects CGI masterpiece crafted to dazzle and delight).

The American - a Focus Pictures production - uniquely fits the mold.

The thriller (starring a charismatic salt & pepper George Clooney) unravels slow and sure in the breath-taking opening scenes - then, quickly - kick-starts into high gear (in part) due to a series of spine-tingling plot twists that erupt unexpectedly out-of-the-blue.

Suddenly, the theatre-goer (on the edge of his or her seat by now), is propelled forward into the action for a wild ride that is not always gauged by tail-spin turns, screeching tires, or a bloody body count.

In fact, the American is a remarkable film in many respects, because of what it is not.

The scriptwriter (who adapted a best-selling book here) wisely chose not to rely on gimmicks (what has gone before) to appeal to the commercial mainstream - and in the process - avoided tired old clichés and stale plot scenarios to avoid breathing artifical life into what amounts to a gem of a movie.

Personally, I stared up fom the below the footlights and savored every deft Hitchcockian moment that happened along, totally absorbed.

In fact, each frame was not unlike a unique piece of a film puzzle - that eventually snapped  into focus just before the ending - when it dawned on the viewer that "The American" was a subtle morality tale along the old-fashioned traditions of spell-binding meticulous story-telling of yesteryear.

In a nutshell, Clooney’s character is an International spy - of sorts - forced to come out of hiding when a nasty posse of cut-throat killers are hired to terminate him.

In a sub-plot, the screenwriter fleshes out the tortured soul of a complex man - who is at times driven - by exotic sensual tastes as he yearns for intimacy late in life.

In spite of his normally-cool reserve and remarkable self-control in the dangerous high-stakes arena of espionage - in contrast - endless nights alone without companionship (he's an outsider who has been unable to savor the spoils of his success) have taken their toll.

Unlike studio honchos that often rely on formula - with a big dose of style over substance tossed in for good measure to seduce the hapless film buff -  the producers here rely on the intelligence of the sophisticated film enthusiast to fill in the gaps.

The strategy appears to be working - if the turn-out this afternoon in downtown San Francisco - is any indication.

Although the Clooney film was released today - mid-week on a Wednesday afternoon without a lot of frenzied fanfare - excited fans abandoned chores at home and loose-ends on work deadlines at the office to steal into the theatre to catch the flick before the dinner hour.

That's star-power, alright!

The icing on the cake?

Half-naked footage of Clooney reveals the hunk is still at the top of the heap in the stud department, too!

I wouldn't kick him out-of-bed for eating crackers, that's for sure!

Clooney character crafts high-powered rifle for Assassin!

http://www.julian1st.wordpress.com

62nd Annual Emmy Awards...Jimmy Fallon hosts tonight! NBC extravaganza!

If you watch Television even a smidgen, then it hasn't escaped your attention that the Emmy's are being broadcast tonight from the Nokia Theatre in downtown Los Angeles.

After all, the zany promotional blurbs for one of Hollywood's biggest nights, have been screaming out from the little black box all week.

The 62nd Annual Emmy Awards will be hosted by fun-loving irascible night-time talk-show host Jimmy Fallon.

Showtime: 5 p.m.

To determine the winners of the coveted statuette each year (one of the most beautifully-crafted awards in the industry) members from at least two dozen-or-so prestigious Entertainment groups in current paid-up status (Unions, for example)  vote on candidates in their field of expertise.

In the aftermath of an initial nomination - the Emmy has the potential to beget work, elevate a performer's stature in the industry, boost a salary demand - you name it.

This year, the cast of "Glee" and "Modern Family" are basking in the glow, for instance, in view of a slew of nods eachreceived for a dynamic year of thought-provoking and/or comedic programming which resonated with audiences.

Actor George Clooney (who takes on the role of director and/or producer on occasion) is being honored with the Bob Hope Humanitarian Award this year.

Congrats, George!

http://www.julian1st.wordpress.com

Oscar Nominations...Avatar & Hurt Locker lead pack! Meryl Streep, Matt Damon, Jeff Bridges land acting nods...

Going for the Gold!

Best Animated Film

At the crack of dawn this morning, the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences wiped the cobwebs from their eyes and anounced that two films ( “Avatar” and “The Hurt Locker”) each won nine Oscar nominations for the 2009 slate of films in the running for a little Statuette.

Quentin Tarantino's "Inglourious Basterds" - another major contender in the race for the gold - was also breathing down the  necks of two Directors (James Cameron & Kathryn Bigelow) with eight triumphs in worthy categories.
.
Avatar, Hurt Locker, and Inglourious Basterds were all nominated for best picture in a contest that's going to be thrilling to watch come Oscar Night.

And,  the super talents at the helm of each project - Quentin Tarantino, Kathryn Bigelow, and "King of the World" James Cameron - are also neck-in-neck for best directing kudos.

Other best picture nominees (in a crowded category where ten films are now nominated for best feature  each year) were “District 9”, “An Education”, “A Serious Man” and “Up.”

“Precious: Based on the Novel ‘Push’ by Sapphire" won six nominations.

Nods went to "Precious" for Drama, Lee Daniels (Director), Gabourey Sidibe (Best Actress), Mo’Nique (Best Supporting Actress), and best adapted screenplay for Geoffrey Fletcher.

“Up in the Air” (one of my fave films) garnered acclaim, too, with six nominations (best picture, best director for talented  Jason Reitman, best adapted script, best actor for sexy George Clooney, and two supporting actress nominations for Vera Farmiga and Anna Kendrick.

Sandra Bullock, considered a dark horse, was nominated best actress for her role in the much- hailed "Blind Side " to the surprise of most industry-analysts.

“District 9" - a Sci-Fi thriller (which I found entertaining & innovataive for the most part) - edged out a tough competitor in the field (Star Trek).

“Invictus" (directed by Clint Eastwood) also rustled up nominations for Morgan Freeman (star) and always effervescent supporting actor Matt Damon.

Nominees for best actor also included seasoned Jeff Bridges (Crazy Heart); British actor Colin Firth (A Single Man); and Jeremy Renner ( Hurt Locker).

Personally, I was impressed with the performances of all three actors, but expect Bridges - on the heels of snapping up a Golden Globe & Screen Actors Guild Award - is considered the favorite to win.

Rounding out the best actress category were Carey Mulligan (An Education); Meryl Streep (Julie & Julia); and Helen Merrin (The Last Station).

Maggie Gyllenhaal was nominated for best supporting actress for “Crazy Heart”, while Penélope Cruz nabbed her nomination in this category for her dazzling performance in “Nine.”

The supporting actor nominees also included Woody Harrelson (The Messenger); Christopher Plummer  (The Last Station); and Stanley Tucci (The Lovely Bones).

Nominations for best original screenplay went to Alessandro Camon & Oren Moverman (The Messenger); Joel & Ethan Coen for (A Serious Man); and Pete Docter, Bob Peterson and Thomas McCarthy (UP).

Nominees for best adapted screenplay included Nick Hornby (An Education); Neill Blomkamp and Terri Tatchell (District 9); and Jesse Armstrong, Simon Blackwell, Armando Iannucci, and Tony Roche (In the Loop).

“Up” received a nomination for best animated film along with "Coraline", "Fantastic Mr. Fox", "The Secret of the Kells", and "The Princess and the Frog".

Best foreign language film nominees were “Ajami,” (Israel);  “A Prophet,” (France); “The Secret in Their Eyes,” (Argentina); “The White Ribbon,” Germany); and “The Milk of Sorrow” (Peru).

Unfortunately, most of the features produced overseas have not been released in the U.S. (so audiences in America are not entirely sure who to root for in this category - although a white horse is defintely "The White Ribbon"  (Germany) - based on word of mouth.

This year, the Oscar ceremony boasts two hosts - funnyman Steve Martin and actor Alec Baldwin - which should prove to be an intriguing twist for one of the most highly-watched broadcasts of the year.

www.julianayrs.com

Justin Timberlake...Haiti telethon features Bono, Taylor Swift & Jennifer Hudson! Broadcast & iTunes release...

Justin Timberlake will appear alongside "the Boss" (Bruce Springsteen), Taylor Swift, Jennifer Hudson, and Bono (to name a few) tonight on a live! Telethon to raise funds for earthquake-torn Haiti still suffering aftershock and homelessness after a big one struck the tiny Nation earlier this week.

The broadcast kicks-off @ 8 p.m. in New York City & has been listed on the TV schedule as:

Hope for Haiti Now:  A Global Benefit for Earthquake Relief

A myriad of stations, cable outlets, and major networks will carry the high-profile benefit concert - including NBC, Fox, CNN, and HBO - to name a few.

"Coldplay" will contribute from a London stage, while Bono is slated to jam with a handful of talented musicians in a group effort to raise the consciousness over the isssues (and much-needed funds, too).

George Clooney and MTV, who knocked heads to organize the landmark musical event, have arranged for the music featured in the spectacular extravaganza, to be released on iTunes tomorrow (Saturday January 23rd).

Three of the hosts will broadcast live from separate locations:

* George Clooney (Los Angeles)
*Wyclef Jean (NYC)
*Anderson Cooper (Haiti)

All proceeds collected go to a myriad of charities in the loop.

http://www.julianayrs.com

UP IN THE AIR..George Clooney shines in timely film! Will you be my co-pilot...

A picture says a thousand words!

I couldn't stand the opening credits for "UP IN THE AIR".

If this hodge-podge of mundane flat images (with a score underneath that screamed Sixties B-movie) was a sign of what was to come, I half-expected to walk out.

Fortunately, once handsome George Clooney sauntered onto the screen and the plot line moved along at a fast clip, I was able to settle in for a very entertaining (and, at times, inspiring) two hours of move-making magic.

Although the subject matter is a serious one in these tough economic times (Clooney's character is basically a hatchet-man who has been hired to - as gracefully as possible - give termination notices to employees first-hand at major companies around the country when their usefulness has been outlived) the surprisingly delightful film is sparked up with a lot of hilarious dialogue, sight gags, and jokes about relationships that resonate deeply with the rapt audiences currently packing in movie theatres to catch it first time around.

The story sickens when a young efficiency expert (female, natch) - with a minor in psychology - waltzes in to incorporate sophisticated "computerized" technology into the mix  (on screen firings, for example) in a bold-faced effort to make the process more efficient and cost effective.

At this juncture, the film becomes an intense morality tale about corporate insensitivity and the loss of humanity in the workplace.

A sub-plot which focuses on Clooney's inability to commit to a relationship strikes a responsive chord, too, in this well-crafted script which dovetails a handful of believable thought-provoking scenarios which resolve fittingly (without cop out) in the closing moments of the film.

By the way - "Will you be my co-pilot?" - is bound to be a phrase (coined in the film) that surely catches on with young (and old) lovers alike as the charming Clooney offering gains momentum around the country.

Gorgeous George is at the top of his game here in a highly-nuanced performance that astounds.

All the supporting players round out the cast with solid seamless performances, too.

In fact, I expect filmgoers will be anxious to catch a couple of the relatively-unknown actors featured in "UP IN THE AIR" in future projects, if only to see what acting stuff they're truly made of for curiosity's sake.

Clooney's character falls victim to the "love" game!

http://www.julianayrs.com

Golden Globe Awards...no surpises! Favorites sure-fire winners...

These past few days, I was so caught up in reporting on the CityCenter grand opening in Vegas, that a couple of assignments remained on the back burner stewing.

In the showbiz arena, the big event that all eyes were focused on this week, was the Foreign Press Association's announcement about  the nominees for the upcoming Golden Globe Awards celebration.

The 67th annual Globes will be handed out on January 17th in the shadow of the Oscar nominations to be revealed a few days later on February 2 (2010).

In some instances, there weren't any Golden Globe surprises.

"Up in the Air", "Nine, and "Avatar" all scooped up a  bevy of nominations as expected.

The Cecil B.DeMille Lifetime Achievement Award will also honor long-time veteran filmmaker Martin Scorsese this year.

The Association - comprised of 83 foreign journalists - wass right on track this year in my estimation.

The directing category looks like a tough one to crack for any of the nominees:  Kathryn Bigelow (Hurt Locker), James Cameron (Avatar), Clint Eastwood (Invictus), Jason Reitman (Up in the Air), Quentin Tarantino (Inglourious Basterds).

The acting category for men (drama) puts the spotlight on a performer out of the limelight in recent days.

Tobey Maguire was nominated for "Brothers" alongside George Clooney (Up in the Air), Jeff Bridges (Crazy Heart), Colin Firth (a Single Man), Morgan Freeman (Invictus).

There's a lot of tough competition in the best actress category (drama), too.

Emily Blunt is my own personal favorite (Young Victoria), though I won't be disappointed if any of the other contenders - Sandra Bullock (The Blind Side), Helen Mirren (The Last Station), Carrey Mulligan (An Education), Gabourey Sidibe (Precious) - dash up to the podium to pluck up a Gold Statue.

The selections for best picture (drama) are far-reaching and include: Avatar, Hurt Locker, Inglourious Basterds, Precious, Push, and Up in the Air.

Musical and Comedy offerings have boosted the morale of Hollywood (and the box office a tad) and represent the best of the genre: Nine, Julie & Julia, The Hangover, It's complicated, and (500) Days of Summer.

Best Foreign Film

Broken Embraces, A Prophet (Un Prophete), The Maid, Baaria, The White Ribbon.

Best Actor (Musical or Comedy)

Matt Damon (The Informant), Daniel-Day Lewis (Nine), Robert Downey Jr. (Sherlock Holmes), Joseph Gordon-Levitt (500) Days of Summmer, Michael Stuhlbarg (A serious Man).

Best Actress (Musical or Comedy)

Sandra Bullock (the Proposall), Marion Cotillard (Nine), Julia Roberts (Duplicity), Meryl Streep (It's Complicated), Meryl Streep (Julie & Julia).

Supporting Actor

Matt Damon (Invictus), Woody Harrelson (The Messenger), Christopher Plummer (the Last Station), Stanley Tucci (The Lovely Bones), Christoph Waltz (Inglourius Basterds).

Supporting Actress

Penelope Cruz (Nine), Vera Farmiga (Up in the Air), Anna Kendrick (Up in the Air), MO'Nigue (Precious), Julianne Moore (A single Man).

Best Animated Film

Cloudy with a chance of Meatballs, Coraline, Fantastic Mr. Fox,The Princess and the Frog, Up.

Best Screenplay

Mark Boal (The Hurt Locker), Neill Blomkamp & Terri Tatchell (District Nine), Nancy Meyers (It's complicated), Jason Reitman & Sheldon Turner (Up in the Air), Quentin Tarantino (Inglourious Basterds).

Original Score

Michael Giacchino (Up), Marvin Hamlisch (The Informant), James Horner (Avatar), Abel Korseniowski  (A single Man), Karen O & Carter Burwell (Where the wild things are).

Best Song

Cinema Italiano (Nine),  I See you (Avatar), I want to come Home (Everybody's Fine), The Weary Kind (Crazy Heart), Winter (Brothers).

TV Series Drama

Big Love, Dexter, House, Mad Men, True Blood

Actor (series Drama)

Simon Baker (The Mentalist), Michael C. Hall (Dexter), John Hamm (Mad Men), Hugh Laurie (House), Bill Paxton (Big Love).

Actress (Series Drama)

Glenn close (Damages), January Jones (Mad Men), Julianna Margulies (The Good Wife), Anna Paqin  (True Blood), Kyra Sedgwick (The Closer).

Series (Comedy or Musical)

30 Rock, Entourage, Glee, Modern Family, the Office.

Actor (Comedy or Musical)

Alec Baldwin (30 Rock), Steve Carell (the Office), David Duchovny (Californication), Thomas Jane (Hung), Matthew Morrison (Glee).

Actress (Comedy or Musical)

Toni Collette (United States of Tara), Courtney Cox (Cougar Town), Edie Falco (Nurse Jackie), Tina Fey (30 Rock), Lea Michele (Glee).

Best Miniseries or Motion Picture (made of Television)

Grey Gardens, Georgia O'Keeffe, Into the Storm, Little Dorrit, Taking Chance.

Actress in Miniseries or Motion Picture (Made for Television)

Joan Allen (Georgia O'Keeffe), Drew Barrymore (Grey Gardens), Jessica Lange (Grey Gardens), Anna Paquin (The courageous Heart of Irene Sendler), Sigourney Weaver (Prayers for Bobby).

Actor in Miniseries or Motion Picture (Made for Television)

Kevin Bacon (Taking Chance), Kenneth Branagh (Wallander: One Step Behind), Chiwetel Ejofor (Endgame), Brendan Gleeson (Into the Storm), Jeremy Irons (Georgia O'Keeffe).

Supporting Actor

Michael Emerson (Lost), Neil Patrick Harris (How I met your Mother), William Hurt (Damages), John Lithgow (Dexter), Jeremy Piven (Entourage).

Supporting Actress

Jane Adams (Hung), Rose Byrne (Damages), Jane Lynch (Glee), Janet McTeer (Into the Storm), Cloe Sevigny (Big Love).

Good luck to one and all on the red carpet night!

Meryl Streep portrays celebrated Chef Julia Child

http://www.julianayrs.com

Ellen DeGeneres...Prince! George Clooney! Drew Barrymore! Knock-out week for guests!

Wow!

Ellen's e-mail announcing her line-up of guests this week (July 6th/10th) sure packed a wallop.

Monday, Patrick Dempsey is expected to touch down on her couch and discuss his new cologne PLUS!

According to that latent homo cutie on TMZ ('ya know! the one with the long silky surfer dude "do" who's got a thing about dudes showing their "business" in public) Dempsey has one of the best a**es in Tinseltown.

Backed up with a video clip, folks!

Tomorrow, Ellen Generous (my nickname for the hostess-with-the mostest who gives away sweet tweets - um - treats on her top-rated show daily) will chat up perky cutie Drew Barrymore who sticks up for "Gay Moms".

Check out my video of Drew who turned out to support a repeal on Prop 8 in WeHo:

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2009/05/drew-barrymoreattends-prop-8-protest.html

On Wednesday (July 8th) PRINCE will prance onto the stage and no doubt bring down the Ellen house when he breaks a personal-best recluse record for rarely making appearances on lowly talk shows.

That little charmer, Ellen, probably soft-soaped him outta the wings by gifting him with silky purple undershorts (she has a thing about guys underthings, 'ya know?) a matching "T" and feather boa, I expect.

Lindsay Lohan will cry the blues - same show! - about being alone.
Potential hook-ups should snatch up a ticket and make a pass when she saunters into the mostly-lesbo audience with Ellen to do what has become the quirky comedienne's ritual dance (the one thing that manages to always irk Howard Stern when nothing else does).

Georgie Baby (Clooney, who else?) will saunter in on Thursday all suave and debonair.

The handsome hunk has something in common with me, 'ya know?

Figured you would make that boner - get your mind out of the gutter folks!


Actually, "G" and I share the same birthday - May 6th - along with Rudolph Valentino (no wonder I always fantasize about being a silent film star) Willie Maes (I couldn't get a ball across the home plate for spit) Sigmund Freud (wet dreams are all about sex, noted old Sig, and I couldn't agree more) and Orson Welles.

Say, has anyone noticed the subtle blooper in the celebrated film - Citizen Kane - which has been touted as the "perfect" movie offering of all time?

Betcha can't!

Finally (thank God it's Friday) Hugh Jackman (Wolverine) will grace the Ellen stage with his studly self and cause a few straight gals (and dudes) in the footlights to swoon a tad.

For kicks, maybe Ellen & Hugh will perform an old Peter Allen tune?

Stay tuned!

http://www.julianayrs.com

Happy Birthday...to George Clooney, Orson Welles, Rudolph Valentino, Sigmund Freud, Willie Mays & moi! It was predicted in the stars...

May 6th has always been an auspicious birthday for individuals seeking to stand out, be original, and achieve in their chosen fields of endeavour.

Today, as I celebrate the "anniversary" of my birth (along with that handsome devil-may-care actor George Clooney) I am inclined to reflect on the issue.

The "sexiest" man alive and I also share the honor with celebrated film director, Orson Welles; screen idol, Rudolph Valentino; Willie Mays, baseball great; and - last, but certainly not least - dream analyst, Sigmund Freud.


I was born just after midnight on the 6th.

As the story goes, my doting father called my Aunt Evelyn to inform her of the good news.

"Victor, it's the middle of the night. Are you mad? Call me in the morning," she whined just before hanging up the phone in his ear.

To some, a bouncing baby boy is not a bundle of joy, I suppose.

Years later, when my Aunt was inclined to boast that I was nearly born on her birthday - May 5th - I didn't have the heart to reveal that I was privy to her selfish response a few dusty decades prior.

When I scrambled out from under the covers bright and early this morning, I dashed to snatch up the morning paper; after all, a special forecast is cast for celebrants experiencing their birthday on the day of publication.

Here's what Holiday Mathis predicted for Georgie-boy and moi this year:

"You hit your stride this year and become powerful in a family or organization. July brings a surprise visitor. There will be a windfall in October (can't wait!). Libra and Leo admire you (better ask folks what their sign is pronto so I can manipulate the scenario!). Your lucky numbers are 3, 5, 39, 15, and 5."

Oops!

Ms. Mathis repeated 5 twice. Guess the science is not always exact due to human error, eh?

Actually, I studied astrology "many moons" ago.

When people complain that their daily horoscope is not always accurate, there is a sound reason for that, 'ya know?

The daily forecast is sketchy and based on general trends for the "sign" in question.

If a true "reading" is desired, then a chart would have to be mapped out based on the specific heavenly influences at play at the exact second, minute, and hour of the subject's "b"-day.

Years ago, when I sprang a few bucks for an in-depth analysis, the assessment was pretty right-on.

Even down to my "sexual" proclivities!

Some say, that astrology rings true because of one of Darwin's most thought-provoking theories:
"Whatever is born of a moment partakes of the nature of that moment."

To determine if the theory was correct, years ago CBC radio tested the theory, and later broadcast the startling results.

In particular, the study focused on individuals who were not related by family, but nonetheless, were born the exact moment under the same set of circumstances influencing the mid-heavens on a specific date.

After exhaustive investigations into the personal and professional lives of the subjects meeting the basic underlying set of criteria, the conclusions were unanimous.

Individuals born the exact moment in time - even though not related or falling under the classic sibling scenario - tended to live "parallel" lives.

Consequently, they were labeled "Time Twins".

To illustrate, consider these case histories that were held up to scrutiny by the scientists.

In one instance, two men born in the same hospital at the exact same second - to separate parents tended to not only live "parallel lives" - but were drawn to similar types of people, places, and things.

For example, two male babies were both named "John", for instance, in spite of the fact the families hadn't met and didn't know each other.

When the two young men reached adulthood - and married - they both got hitched to a pretty young lady by the name of "Mary".

Each had three children, ended up in management for a career, and drove a Volvo.

The study determined that the farther apart babies were born (at the exact second in time) the more pronounced the differences in their personal and professional lives.

Because the "John" individuals were born in the same hospital at the exact same time, their parallels were more astounding.

Two children born under the same set of circumstances in the mid-heaven at the exact moment in time - but brought into the world in hospitals sixty miles apart - might result in more dramatic differences.

In one shocking instance, two men were given the same Christian names, resided in similar semi-detached homes, married a woman with the same first and last name, and so forth and so on.

One day, each was travelling down the road toward each other on the highway, and crashed, and were the cause of each other's death!

Bizarre, eh?

According to the principles of Numerology, a subject must add all the digits of their birthdate to determine their basic personality traits and overall lot in life.

May 6th folks are 1's.

1's tend to have very distinct individual personalities, may be loners, and creative in nature.

Instinctively, such a person can rise up the ranks to become the head of an organization or a politician.

After all, 1's usually possess leadership ability.

But, one classic Taurus personality trait often threatens to undermine their success in life, unless kept in check.

Stubbornness!

Personally, I've turned that potentially-negative trait into a positive one by harnessing its obvious strengths into a "stick-to-it" aspect of my character, that drives me forward when the going gets tough.

Nope, Taureans are not quitters.

In fact, later in life, "bulls" usually end up luxuriating in the fruits of their labor.

When it comes to friends, individuals born under the sign are "solid" and may be relied on.

Watch out for Geminis, though.

They're flighty as he**, Dudes!

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Julian Ayrs 1st Annual Worst-Dressed Men's List...Kid Rock! Brandon Flowers! Johnny Depp!

With a nod to Mr. Blackwell

The male animal has always been blessed with the most colorful plumage of the species.

To hasten the mating ritual, perhaps?

So, in our modern permissive society, the savvy fashion-minded dude is inclined to push the limits, take risks, even carve a niche in the high-stakes world of pop culture, the high-profile business arena, you name it!

When it comes to cutting a fine swath, some dudes just got it.

So, they flaunt it.

Other hapless losers, continually miss the fashion mark by a country mile.

Here's the 1st Annual 10 Worst-Dressed men (and 10 Best) list to brighten your day, with a nod to Mr. Blackwell, of course!

Ten Worst-Dressed Men


Phil Spector
(infamous for wall of hair)

A whirling dervish with a bee-hive "do" driven to sheer madness by a "wall of murderous sound".

Be bop a-loo!

Rod Stewart

(Whiskey Soaked rock star)

A ruddy-complexioned dykey Dusty Springfield impersonator blown-dry to seedy perfection in a matronly Royal Blue Kimono Queen Lizzie would be proud of!

Brandon Flowers
Pop Icon

A killer Bar Mitzvah crooner in spiffy Maitre d's jacket trotted out in jazzy black designer trim!

A Boy Band wannabee with enough tarted-up groupies to start-up his own bubble-gum factory!

Richard Simmons

(Fitness Queen)

Nellie wimp to Norse-God in just six aerobic weeks.

The rigorous weight-watch & body work-out taskmaster can help you accomplish the quirky sweaty  "Mission: Impossible" in the wink of an eye.

To rustle up cut pecs a-la-Pitt (pooh on the femme ta ta's) stop tossing your legs in the air & cut down on hormones, quick!

Barry Manilow

(Vegas Crooner)

The joker or Ellen Degeneres on prozac?


Just maybe, no fashion sense, at all?

No matter how 'ya cut the cloth, the Pink Lady is Queen, packing 'em in nightly on the glitzy Vegas strip!

No hot-ticket wonder!

Retreads of old hits are in Vogue now for those who nostalgically pine for the good ole American way of life that's seen better days.

Donald Trump

(Vanity be her name)

A smarmy tie-dangling dandy in blinding canary yellow - with a dash of fragrant Hotel soap - wafting about his nouveau riche mogul demeanor.

The fashion elite scratch their heads, meanwhile, and ponder why the "Donald" can't afford to do somethin' about that crusty old souffle - that goes pouf - flat as a pancake on top of his noggin'.

Kid Rock

Front Man

A Honkie Pimp with a penchant for endangered pussy and slinky luxury fur. And, a swish-buckler to boot!
White trash with punk overtones crying out to be ushered into the tony set!

Johnny Depp

Rags to Riches to Rags Tale

No. 1 contender for back-up dancer in Cher's bone head production of gypsies, tramps and thieves.

Johnny has enough trussed-up belted flourishes to titillate any bone fide S & M Queen - and a provocative come-hither-look - sure to entice hot-to-trot babes, in-the-closet homos, and those in-between.

Tony Curtis

Aging Lothario

A ruffled has-been personifying B-Movie sleaze.

If this is an American Prince, descendants of the Mayflower need to charge the Castle and push the classless thespian into the moat, please!

Steven Cojocaru

Styless Fashionista

Chastity Bono in drag?

An over-the-top fashion critic who sashays and rallies on behalf of the Fashion Elite.

But, a mirror turned back on the fabric Queen t'wil reveal a high-profile gag out of Vogue since Rex Reed first reined supreme.

Sorry, Cojo!

Ten Best Dressed Men

Brian Williams

The conservative news anchor instills confidence as he boldly strides forward into sartorial spendour - in a never-never land - where fashion wimps rarely prance.

A study in cool icy contrasts (monochromatic blues against pristine whites on elegant midnight black silhouettes) he's a leader of the pack who always gets the lead right.

Wagner is a masculine beauty shamelessly at home in designer duds, elegant three-piece suits, and the like.

But, being a man's man, sports a day-old stubble, to effect a rugged fashion sense that is the envy of the most impotent of men.

Tom Cruise

Clotheshorse with the presence to back it up!

In spite of troubles over the past year, 'ya gotta hand it to the "Top Gun".

With little aplomb, the couch-jumper struts down the red carpet in a Tuxedo or fanciful designer suit, with ease.

Sexy in leather bomber jackets & snug-fitting jeans, a nod goes to a dude who is a role model on the fashion runway.

Johnny Brenden

Flash with Cash!

On the red carpet in Vegas (or anywhere else for that matter) Johnny (no-cum-lately) is a rare breed of man capable of relaxing in a chic Gianni Versace sure to stifle any other dude.

Then, boosts the fashion stakes into the stratosphere, when he sparks up the ensemble with a $100, 000.00 diamond- studded bracelet that other dues can ill afford.

A dazzling dizzying hunk of a male - Mr. Muscles - is!!!

David Bowie

Trend-setter, innovator, and leader of the transgender spaceman pack!

Yes - glitter, rouge, and wide-brimmed hats - are his forte and signature style.

Surprisingly, David holds up well in the classics on a night out on the town.

Barack Obama

The "Brown Look"

Probaby a brown-noser in school, who peddled some influence with the teach.

As to the "Brown" look - well - he's a master at it, man!



Check out the shade of brown he hand-picks for the suit he models to the right. On the money, 'fer sure!

And the correctly knotted tie in complementary colors (against a pristine white dress shirt) drums up sheer elegeance and class.

A study in individual style!

Brad Pit

Fashion Plate Special

A dude's dude, dude!

When it comes to fashion, Pitt has it all.

The attitude to carry a look off, for starters.

A slightly notorious brown leather jacket teamed with a floral design, for instance (that would render most guys to the status of lowly pimp or rounder on the wrong side of town) revs up a hint of danger to his persona, 'ya know?
The A-list actor would look good in a K-mart sheet tossed around his slightly-buffed frame.

Come to think of it, isn't that what he strode into combat in on the set of Troy?

Blair Underwood

Actor

When I scuttled about in office scenes on LA LAW many moons ago, I got an eyeful of Blair Underwood in the flesh.

In a suit, the man was pure Legal Eagle all the way, sure to incline any hanging Judge to rule in his favor.

When he strides in the room, in fact, a breath of fresh air permeates the space, too.

The stylish dude is also equally at home in trendy designers duds tossed out each season to spark up the fashion trail a bit. (pictured here)

Sidney Poitier

Man for all Fashion Seasons

A seasoned actor never out of fashion step at a premiere on the red carpet or even at a cook-out among friends.

Sidney is suave & sophisticated in designer suits that he spruces up with subtle fashion flourishes in pastel shades and chic accessories.

And, versatile enough to sport bold-patterned shirts like the one picture above, without anyone cringing.

George Clooney

Man's Man-about-Town

Born into the old-world charm & elegance of the Hollywood elite, Georgie boy still manages to effect casual chic.

He's comfy in three-piece suits, a hunting cap - even long-johns - I just betcha.

In the final analysis, Clooney is a swoon dog, who makes heads turn 'cause he's the ultimate fashion plate.

After a gander at the Clooney persona, it's obvious that the old truism is correct.

It's style, not the clothes, that make the man!

Post: 12/31/2008

Julian Ayrs 10 Worst-Dressed Women's List

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