After a year of nesting in pastel-coloured loungewear, shoppers are opting for styles with floral prints, feel-good slogans and statement jewellery to jazz up working-from-home outfits as optimism makes a comeback in spring collections, designers and retailers told Reuters.

While neutral, comfortable clothing remains more popular than in a normal spring, retailers from Neiman Marcus to Walmart and Macy’s Inc reported growing sales of bright, optimistic colour, flowy fabrics or dresses for the first time since the start of the pandemic as shoppers prepared for a return to normal life.

“We’re seeing a return to occasion dresses and even bras with wires,” Marie Ivanoff-Smith, fashion director at department store Nordstrom, told Reuters. “As it gets warmer and more people to go outside, we thought people would really want to showcase optimism and joy with prints and vibrant colours.” 
 
So far, ditzy floral prints are up 31% in Europe and 16% in the United States from last year, according to Heuritech, a data firm analyzing millions of pictures a day on social media and catwalks. 
 
Colours seen in catwalks for spring and summer 2021 collections were vibrant pinks and bold blues – “an energizing source of inspiration to help carry us through,” the company said in a February report. While vibrant colours and floral motifs are typical of spring styles, the difference this year is that fashion lines also include nude t-shirts and what Walmart’s head of fashion editorial, Alison Hilzer, called “slouchy cardigans.”

British online fashion retailer ASOS said in an email that it noticed in recent weeks its customers were “into feel-good slogans, brighter colours and floral accessories as the weather has started to improve and they start to get ready for the summer ahead.”

“While neutral tones are still prevalent, we’re excited to inject some much-needed optimism into our wardrobes with bright accents. We’re loving yellows and greens for (spring),” an ASOS spokesperson told Reuters in an email. 
 
“Bold colours, draping, and light fabrics created a perfect complement to spring with collections from Dior, Loewe, and Dries van Noten,” said Lana Todorovich, president and chief merchandising officer at luxury retailer Neiman Marcus.

“It’s clear that the trend is also about coming out of this, although it’s still a lot about comfortable garments,” H&amp;M CEO Helena Helmersson told Reuters on Wednesday after the Swedish retailer reported earnings.

A ‘NERVE-RACKING’ PLANNING PROCESS

Still, planning has never been harder than this year, as designers used to finishing designs months and sometimes years ahead were forced to adjust collections and marketing in line with the fluctuating circumstances of the coronavirus pandemic.

In general, fashion trend forecasting will look two years out, according to consumer product director at fashion trend analysis company Stylus, Emily Gordon-Smith. But amid the uncertainty of the pandemic, the company advised its clients to play it safe with “seasonless” clothing.

“We tend to plan six months ahead, which is nerve-racking when you think about it,” Nordstrom’s Ivanoff-Smith said. 
“How are you feeling in New York? L.A.? Seattle? We realized we needed to cater to all the scenarios,” Ivanoff-Smith said. The Seattle-based department store “eased into the spring season” by starting with casual clothes and then moving into special fashions like jewellery and colourful dresses.

Still, convincing consumers spoiled by comfy clothing seven days a week to go back to heels and suits may not be easy, Gordon-Smith said.

“Once consumers are embedded in a comfort-based wardrobe, it’s a very tough mindset to shift,” Gordon-Smith said. “It’ll be underpinned by a desire to dress up again, but by our predictions, that’s not going to happen on a large-scale until 2022.”

‘GET OUT OF SWEATSUITS’

But as the return of spring and progressing vaccination campaigns brought some cheer, Neiman Marcus, Walmart and Macy’s said they have already begun to see people starting to tire of cosy and comfy clothes.

“We’ve begun to see many of our iconic designers show looks and pieces that reflect a return to customers attending special occasions,” said Neiman Marcus’ Todorovich. Brands like The Row, Brunello Cucinelli and Victoria Beckham have embraced “optic whites that symbolize a sense of refresh, rebirth, and a natural reset,” she added. 
 
“The customer mentality is wanting to get out of sweatsuits and sweatshirt pyjamas and put on something that makes them feel pretty and excited to go out,” Walmart’s Hilzer said.

At Macy’s, Durand Guion, vice president of the department store’s fashion office, said he is even starting to see a return to formal clothes and wedding gowns as states open up.

“Weddings can happen again, gatherings can happen again,” he said. “I think a lot of that momentum will just sort of continuing as vaccinations take place.”

After a year of nesting in pastel-coloured loungewear, shoppers are opting for styles with floral prints, feel-good slogans and statement jewellery to jazz up working-from-home outfits as optimism makes a comeback in spring collections, designers and retailers told Reuters.

After a year of nesting in pastel-coloured loungewear, shoppers are opting for styles with floral prints, feel-good slogans and statement jewellery to jazz up working-from-home outfits as optimism makes a comeback in spring collections, designers and retailers told Reuters. While neutral, comfortable clothing remains more popular than in a normal spring, retailers from Neiman Marcus to Walmart and Macy’s Inc reported growing sales of bright, optimistic colour, flowy fabrics or dresses for the first time since the start of the pandemic as shoppers prepared for a return to normal life. “We’re seeing a return to occasion dresses and even bras with wires,” Marie Ivanoff-Smith, fashion director at department store Nordstrom, told Reuters. “As it gets warmer and more people to go outside, we thought people would really want to showcase optimism and joy with prints and vibrant colours.” So far, ditzy floral prints are up 31% in Europe and 16% in the United States from last year, according to Heuritech, a data firm analyzing millions of pictures a day on social media and catwalks. Colours seen in catwalks for spring and summer 2021 collections were vibrant pinks and bold blues – “an energizing source of inspiration to help carry us through,” the company said in a February report. While vibrant colours and floral motifs are typical of spring styles, the difference this year is that fashion lines also include nude t-shirts and what Walmart’s head of fashion editorial, Alison Hilzer, called “slouchy cardigans.” British online fashion retailer ASOS said in an email that it noticed in recent weeks its customers were “into feel-good slogans, brighter colours and floral accessories as the weather has started to improve and they start to get ready for the summer ahead.” “While neutral tones are still prevalent, we’re excited to inject some much-needed optimism into our wardrobes with bright accents. We’re loving yellows and greens for (spring),” an ASOS spokesperson told Reuters in an email. “Bold colours, draping, and light fabrics created a perfect complement to spring with collections from Dior, Loewe, and Dries van Noten,” said Lana Todorovich, president and chief merchandising officer at luxury retailer Neiman Marcus. “It’s clear that the trend is also about coming out of this, although it’s still a lot about comfortable garments,” H&M CEO Helena Helmersson told Reuters on Wednesday after the Swedish retailer reported earnings. A ‘NERVE-RACKING’ PLANNING PROCESS Still, planning has never been harder than this year, as designers used to finishing designs months and sometimes years ahead were forced to adjust collections and marketing in line with the fluctuating circumstances of the coronavirus pandemic. In general, fashion trend forecasting will look two years out, according to consumer product director at fashion trend analysis company Stylus, Emily Gordon-Smith. But amid the uncertainty of the pandemic, the company advised its clients to play it safe with “seasonless” clothing. “We tend to plan six months ahead, which is nerve-racking when you think about it,” Nordstrom’s Ivanoff-Smith said. “How are you feeling in New York? L.A.? Seattle? We realized we needed to cater to all the scenarios,” Ivanoff-Smith said. The Seattle-based department store “eased into the spring season” by starting with casual clothes and then moving into special fashions like jewellery and colourful dresses. Still, convincing consumers spoiled by comfy clothing seven days a week to go back to heels and suits may not be easy, Gordon-Smith said. “Once consumers are embedded in a comfort-based wardrobe, it’s a very tough mindset to shift,” Gordon-Smith said. “It’ll be underpinned by a desire to dress up again, but by our predictions, that’s not going to happen on a large-scale until 2022.” ‘GET OUT OF SWEATSUITS’ But as the return of spring and progressing vaccination campaigns brought some cheer, Neiman Marcus, Walmart and Macy’s said they have already begun to see people starting to tire of cosy and comfy clothes. “We’ve begun to see many of our iconic designers show looks and pieces that reflect a return to customers attending special occasions,” said Neiman Marcus’ Todorovich. Brands like The Row, Brunello Cucinelli and Victoria Beckham have embraced “optic whites that symbolize a sense of refresh, rebirth, and a natural reset,” she added. “The customer mentality is wanting to get out of sweatsuits and sweatshirt pyjamas and put on something that makes them feel pretty and excited to go out,” Walmart’s Hilzer said. At Macy’s, Durand Guion, vice president of the department store’s fashion office, said he is even starting to see a return to formal clothes and wedding gowns as states open up. “Weddings can happen again, gatherings can happen again,” he said. “I think a lot of that momentum will just sort of continuing as vaccinations take place.”

Fashion retailers bet bras with wires and a splash of color will sell this spring

Filmmaker James Cameron has shared that the pre-production of his upcoming 'Avatar'&nbsp;sequels was not as smooth as it seemed. 
 
The director told author Marianne Williamson that he almost fired his 'Avatar'&nbsp;sequel writers' room, which is pitching new ideas for the upcoming movies, reports aceshowbiz.com. 
 
"When I sat down to write the sequels, I knew there were going to be three at the time, and eventually it turned into four," Cameron said. 
He added: "I put together a group of writers and said, 'I don't want to hear anybody's new ideas or anyone's pitches until we have spent some time figuring out what worked on the first film, what connected, and why it worked." 
 
The writers apparently still didn't get it at first, and Cameron had to threaten that he would let them go, which eventually worked. 
"They kept wanting to talk about the new stories. I said, 'We aren't doing that yet.' Eventually, I had to threaten to fire them all because they were doing what writers do, which is to try and create new stories. I said, 'We need to understand what the connection was and protect it, protect that ember and that flame'," he said. 
 
The creative difference didn't cause a delay in the production. Cameron was also optimistic that 'Avatar 2' is still on track for a December 17 release this year despite the Covid pandemic.

Filmmaker James Cameron has shared that the pre-production of his upcoming 'Avatar' sequels was not as smooth as it seemed. The director told author Marianne Williamson that he almost fired his 'Avatar' sequel writers' room, which is pitching new ideas for the upcoming movies, reports aceshowbiz.

Filmmaker James Cameron has shared that the pre-production of his upcoming 'Avatar' sequels was not as smooth as it seemed. The director told author Marianne Williamson that he almost fired his 'Avatar' sequel writers' room, which is pitching new ideas for the upcoming movies, reports aceshowbiz.com. "When I sat down to write the sequels, I knew there were going to be three at the time, and eventually it turned into four," Cameron said. He added: "I put together a group of writers and said, 'I don't want to hear anybody's new ideas or anyone's pitches until we have spent some time figuring out what worked on the first film, what connected, and why it worked." The writers apparently still didn't get it at first, and Cameron had to threaten that he would let them go, which eventually worked. "They kept wanting to talk about the new stories. I said, 'We aren't doing that yet.' Eventually, I had to threaten to fire them all because they were doing what writers do, which is to try and create new stories. I said, 'We need to understand what the connection was and protect it, protect that ember and that flame'," he said. The creative difference didn't cause a delay in the production. Cameron was also optimistic that 'Avatar 2' is still on track for a December 17 release this year despite the Covid pandemic.

When James Cameron almost fired 'Avatar' sequel writers

Paul Simon has sold his entire song catalogue to Sony Music Publishing, joining a string of older musicians cashing in on their life`s work. 
 
Sony Music Publishing said on Wednesday the deal includes classic songs ranging from "Bridge Over Troubled Water," to "Still Crazy After All These Years" that Simon wrote and recorded over his six-decade career. 
 
The value of the deal was not disclosed. Simon, 79, a 16-time Grammy winner who in 2018 announced he was retiring from touring, said in a statement he was "pleased to have Sony Music Publishing be the custodian of my songs for the coming decades." 
 
The sale is the latest in a string of catalogue deals that includes the music of Bob Dylan, Stevie Nicks, Neil Young and Carole Bayer Sager in the past year. Dylan sold his back catalogue of more than 600 songs in December to Universal Music Group and the purchase price was widely reported as $300 million. Other songs have been snapped up by London-based Hipgnosis, which has attributed the deals to a surge in music streaming especially during the coronavirus pandemic when concerts and music festivals have been cancelled. 
 
Companies can reap royalties from licensing the songs they have acquired for use in movies, commercials and branding deals. 
 
Simon launched his career in the late 1950S as a folk singer along with his childhood friend Art Garfunkel. The duo turned out a string of 1960s hits including "Mrs Robinson" "The Sound of Silence," and "The Boxer" before splitting up. Simon embarked on a solo career that produced hit albums and songs including "50 Ways to Leave Your Lover" and "Graceland." 
 
"From Simon and Garfunkel standards like ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’ to solo classics such as ‘Graceland,’ Paul Simon’s music resonates deeply as a cultural touchstone for people all over the world," John Platt, chairman of Sony Music Publishing, said in a statement.

Paul Simon has sold his entire song catalogue to Sony Music Publishing, joining a string of older musicians cashing in on their life`s work. Sony Music Publishing said on Wednesday the deal includes classic songs ranging from "Bridge Over Troubled Water," to "Still Crazy After All These Years" that Simon wrote and recorded over his six-decade career.

Paul Simon has sold his entire song catalogue to Sony Music Publishing, joining a string of older musicians cashing in on their life`s work. Sony Music Publishing said on Wednesday the deal includes classic songs ranging from "Bridge Over Troubled Water," to "Still Crazy After All These Years" that Simon wrote and recorded over his six-decade career. The value of the deal was not disclosed. Simon, 79, a 16-time Grammy winner who in 2018 announced he was retiring from touring, said in a statement he was "pleased to have Sony Music Publishing be the custodian of my songs for the coming decades." The sale is the latest in a string of catalogue deals that includes the music of Bob Dylan, Stevie Nicks, Neil Young and Carole Bayer Sager in the past year. Dylan sold his back catalogue of more than 600 songs in December to Universal Music Group and the purchase price was widely reported as $300 million. Other songs have been snapped up by London-based Hipgnosis, which has attributed the deals to a surge in music streaming especially during the coronavirus pandemic when concerts and music festivals have been cancelled. Companies can reap royalties from licensing the songs they have acquired for use in movies, commercials and branding deals. Simon launched his career in the late 1950S as a folk singer along with his childhood friend Art Garfunkel. The duo turned out a string of 1960s hits including "Mrs Robinson" "The Sound of Silence," and "The Boxer" before splitting up. Simon embarked on a solo career that produced hit albums and songs including "50 Ways to Leave Your Lover" and "Graceland." "From Simon and Garfunkel standards like ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’ to solo classics such as ‘Graceland,’ Paul Simon’s music resonates deeply as a cultural touchstone for people all over the world," John Platt, chairman of Sony Music Publishing, said in a statement.

Paul Simon joins trend to monetise old song catalogs

South Korea`s HYBE Co Ltd, formerly known as Big Hit Entertainment and the manager for K-pop supergroup BTS, is to acquire music executive Scooter Braun`s Ithaca Holdings in a $1.05 billion deal. 
 
The merger brings together BTS, Justin Bieber, Ariana Grande and other artists under one roof for management, label services and publishing. 
Ithaca Holdings CEO Scooter Braun will join the board of HYBE and&nbsp;Scott Borchetta&nbsp;will remain CEO of Big Machine Label Group, HYBE said in a statement on Friday. 
 
HYBE said in a separate regulatory filing that its unit Big Hit America will pay 1.19 trillion won ($1.05 billion) for the merger, including cash payments to existing shareholders and creditors of Ithaca Holdings LLC. 
 
In a second filing, HYBE said it would issue new shares worth 182 billion won to be allocated to Braun, Borchetta, Grande, Bieber and others. 
Artists of both companies will participate in HYBE`s capital increase, to further strengthen the ties between the two companies, HYBE said in its statement. 
 
As part of the transaction, Carlyle Group Inc will sell its significant minority stake in Ithaca Holdings, after initially investing in the company in 2017, the statement said.

South Korea`s HYBE Co Ltd, formerly known as Big Hit Entertainment and the manager for K-pop supergroup BTS, is to acquire music executive Scooter Braun`s Ithaca Holdings in a $1.

South Korea`s HYBE Co Ltd, formerly known as Big Hit Entertainment and the manager for K-pop supergroup BTS, is to acquire music executive Scooter Braun`s Ithaca Holdings in a $1.05 billion deal. The merger brings together BTS, Justin Bieber, Ariana Grande and other artists under one roof for management, label services and publishing. Ithaca Holdings CEO Scooter Braun will join the board of HYBE and Scott Borchetta will remain CEO of Big Machine Label Group, HYBE said in a statement on Friday. HYBE said in a separate regulatory filing that its unit Big Hit America will pay 1.19 trillion won ($1.05 billion) for the merger, including cash payments to existing shareholders and creditors of Ithaca Holdings LLC. In a second filing, HYBE said it would issue new shares worth 182 billion won to be allocated to Braun, Borchetta, Grande, Bieber and others. Artists of both companies will participate in HYBE`s capital increase, to further strengthen the ties between the two companies, HYBE said in its statement. As part of the transaction, Carlyle Group Inc will sell its significant minority stake in Ithaca Holdings, after initially investing in the company in 2017, the statement said.

BTS manager HYBE acquires Scooter Braun's Ithaca Holdings for $1.05 billion

American supermodel and reality TV star Kendall Jenner has reportedly fled her Beverly Hills home and moved to a safer place after she experienced some scary incidents at her residence. 
 
A source close to Kendall told TMZ that after the latest scary incident held on Sunday, she had decided to move out of her house because "the possible risk is too much to stay -- even though her armed security team has been increased."According to the source, the 25-year-old has moved to a safer location with her armed security and has no plans to return to her home. It is still under wraps if she will decide to sell the house.TMZ reported that an alleged trespasser showed up at her place at 2 AM on Sunday and attempted to swim naked in her pool.

<a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/lifestyle/news-is-kendall-jenner-pregnant-the-model-addresses-pregnancy-speculation-373664" hreflang="en">Is Kendall Jenner pregnant? The model addresses pregnancy speculation</a> 
 
Kendall also got a temporary restraining order on Monday against another man who told police that he had plans to kill her and then himself. Sources informed that the man is currently under a mental health observation centre but could be released at any time. On the other hand, the alleged trespasser from Sunday was also arrested but he is also released after certain warnings. 
 
The `Keeping Up with the Kardashians` star also had to deal with an alleged stalker getting onto her property twice in 2018 before getting a restraining order against him.

<a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/lifestyle/news-kendall-jenner-getting-more-serious-about-relationship-with-beau-devin-booker-367752" hreflang="en">Kendall Jenner getting more serious about relationship with beau Devin Booker?</a> 
 
On a related note, TMZ reported that she had moved to her current home after selling her West Hollywood home in 2017, following another string of scary incidents, including a burglary.&nbsp;

American supermodel and reality TV star Kendall Jenner has reportedly fled her Beverly Hills home and moved to a safer place after she experienced some scary incidents at her residence.

American supermodel and reality TV star Kendall Jenner has reportedly fled her Beverly Hills home and moved to a safer place after she experienced some scary incidents at her residence. A source close to Kendall told TMZ that after the latest scary incident held on Sunday, she had decided to move out of her house because "the possible risk is too much to stay -- even though her armed security team has been increased."According to the source, the 25-year-old has moved to a safer location with her armed security and has no plans to return to her home. It is still under wraps if she will decide to sell the house.TMZ reported that an alleged trespasser showed up at her place at 2 AM on Sunday and attempted to swim naked in her pool. Is Kendall Jenner pregnant? The model addresses pregnancy speculation Kendall also got a temporary restraining order on Monday against another man who told police that he had plans to kill her and then himself. Sources informed that the man is currently under a mental health observation centre but could be released at any time. On the other hand, the alleged trespasser from Sunday was also arrested but he is also released after certain warnings. The `Keeping Up with the Kardashians` star also had to deal with an alleged stalker getting onto her property twice in 2018 before getting a restraining order against him. Kendall Jenner getting more serious about relationship with beau Devin Booker? On a related note, TMZ reported that she had moved to her current home after selling her West Hollywood home in 2017, following another string of scary incidents, including a burglary.

Kendall Jenner leaves her Beverly Hills home after scary incidents

Former model Chrissy Teigen was revealed as the cover star of People magazine`s "Beautiful" annual issue on Wednesday, sharing that she`d long put her calorie counting days behind her. 
 
Teigen, 35, said her definition of beauty has also changed since she became a mother to children Luna, 4, and Miles, 2. "It`s really, really nice to be able to come to an age where I can appreciate every little scar and see my body as something that`s done incredible, miraculous things. The difference is these two beautiful, wonderful babies, and these scars are the things I’ve been through," Teigen told People magazine.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/dua-lipa-celeste-and-arlo-parks-lead-brits-nominations-374674" hreflang="en">Dua Lipa, Celeste and Arlo Parks lead BRITs nominations</a> 
 
Teigen is married to singer-songwriter John Legend, who in 2019 was named People`s sexiest man alive. A cookbook

author, Teigen told People she has had "ups and downs" with dieting over the years but was no longer as strict with herself as she had been when she was a swimsuit model. 
 
"At this point, if it’s going to make me happy and make me feel good, then I indulge in it. I’ve spent way too many years counting calories and scheduling way too many workouts and trying to figure out what `wellness` meant to me," she said. 
 
Teigen last week announced she was quitting Twitter, where she had been a prolific poster, saying the social media platform "no longer serves me as positively as it serves me negatively." She kept her Instagram account.

<a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/lifestyle/news-heres-why-chrissy-teigen-quit-twitter-no-it-wasnt-because-of-the-trolls-373347" hreflang="en">Here's why Chrissy Teigen quit Twitter. No, it wasn't because of the trolls</a> 
 
Other celebrities featured in the special issue include "Euphoria" star Zendaya, South Korean actress Yeri Han from the Oscar-nominated film "Minari," and Janet Mock, the transgender writer and director of TV series "Pose." 
 
People magazine in 2018 changed the title of its annual special issue from the "Most Beautiful" to simply "Beautiful." Other men and women to have made the front cover include Julia Roberts, Jennifer Aniston, Jennifer Lopez, Lupita Nyong`o and Leonardo DiCaprio. 
The special double issue hits newsstands on Friday. https://people.com/parents/chrissy-teigen-people-2021-beautiful-issue-cover

Former model Chrissy Teigen was revealed as the cover star of People magazine`s "Beautiful" annual issue on Wednesday, sharing that she`d long put her calorie counting days behind her.

Former model Chrissy Teigen was revealed as the cover star of People magazine`s "Beautiful" annual issue on Wednesday, sharing that she`d long put her calorie counting days behind her. Teigen, 35, said her definition of beauty has also changed since she became a mother to children Luna, 4, and Miles, 2. "It`s really, really nice to be able to come to an age where I can appreciate every little scar and see my body as something that`s done incredible, miraculous things. The difference is these two beautiful, wonderful babies, and these scars are the things I’ve been through," Teigen told People magazine. Dua Lipa, Celeste and Arlo Parks lead BRITs nominations Teigen is married to singer-songwriter John Legend, who in 2019 was named People`s sexiest man alive. A cookbook author, Teigen told People she has had "ups and downs" with dieting over the years but was no longer as strict with herself as she had been when she was a swimsuit model. "At this point, if it’s going to make me happy and make me feel good, then I indulge in it. I’ve spent way too many years counting calories and scheduling way too many workouts and trying to figure out what `wellness` meant to me," she said. Teigen last week announced she was quitting Twitter, where she had been a prolific poster, saying the social media platform "no longer serves me as positively as it serves me negatively." She kept her Instagram account. Here's why Chrissy Teigen quit Twitter. No, it wasn't because of the trolls Other celebrities featured in the special issue include "Euphoria" star Zendaya, South Korean actress Yeri Han from the Oscar-nominated film "Minari," and Janet Mock, the transgender writer and director of TV series "Pose." People magazine in 2018 changed the title of its annual special issue from the "Most Beautiful" to simply "Beautiful." Other men and women to have made the front cover include Julia Roberts, Jennifer Aniston, Jennifer Lopez, Lupita Nyong`o and Leonardo DiCaprio. The special double issue hits newsstands on Friday. https://people.com/parents/chrissy-teigen-people-2021-beautiful-issue-cover

Chrissy Teigen fronts People magazine's 'Beautiful' issue

It's a troubling political fable shot with a sophisticated aesthetic, and Tunisia's first-ever Academy Award nomination: 'The Man Who Sold His Skin'. Part dark satire, part romantic drama, the film tells the story of lovelorn Syrian refugee Sam Ali (Yahya Mahayni) who is able to travel to Europe thanks to a Faustian pact.

When a contemporary artist tattoos a European Schengen visa across his back, Ali finds himself able to cross international borders as a living work of art.&nbsp;Tunisian writer-director Kaouther Ben Hania ventured outside her native country to dive into two contrasting worlds -- of refugees and contemporary art.

"I couldn't stand the victimisation discourse on refugees anymore," said the director, Ben Hania. "My intention from the start was to make him a contemporary hero who comes out on top and turns the adventure to his advantage."

The story is partly inspired by the real-life tale of a Belgian man, Tim Steiner, who sold the right to tattoo his back, occasionally exhibit it, and recover the skin after his death, to the artist Wim Delvoye, who makes a cameo in the film.

The movie, shot in France, Belgium and Tunisia, alternates between a grating and tender tone as it highlights the cruel absurdity of a system where objects can travel more freely than people.

"The Man Who Sold His Skin" is shortlisted in the International Feature Film category for the Oscars, which are held on April 25.

Monica Bellucci plays a "fake blonde" gallerist while Syrian actor Yahya Mahayni portrays a sweet freedom-loving dreamer who oscillates between joy and anger in a volatile situation.

- 'Total dispossession' -

While the refugee is "in total dispossession of his body" during part of the story, "he eventually regains possession of it", said Ben Hania. The characters in the story "resemble me, pushed to the extreme", she confided. Like the Syrian refugee, she said, she has faced "problems of papers to leave for France".

And like the eccentric artist in the film, she said, "I reflect on my work to the extreme".&nbsp;Her earlier films have already won awards, including "Beauty and the Dogs" about a young woman's quest for justice after being raped, and "Zaineb Hates the Snow", a documentary about a Tunisian teenager who migrates to Canada.

The Oscar nomination "is huge," admitted Ben Hania, who added that she regrets the lack of institutional support for cinema in Tunisia. The film was co-produced with 25 international partners, including in Belgium, France, Germany, Sweden, Tunisia and Qatar, and shot by Lebanese cinematographer Christopher Aoun ("Capernaum").

Raising the budget of 2.5 million euros ($2.9 million) was "a challenge", according to one of the co-producers, Nedim Cheikhrouha, who said the project almost collapsed a year ago due to lack of funds. At the Academy Awards, 'The Man Who Sold His Skin'&nbsp;has fewer promotional resources than other contenders, the producers said.&nbsp;

Ben Hania -- who says she is now working on a film "on the edge of genres" between documentary and fiction -- hopes that the Oscar nomination will, at the very least, "make my next films a little easier".

"The Man Who Sold His Skin" was released this week in Tunisia and will screen in the United States from April 2, and in Sweden on April 23.

It's a troubling political fable shot with a sophisticated aesthetic, and Tunisia's first-ever Academy Award nomination: 'The Man Who Sold His Skin'. Part dark satire, part romantic drama, the film tells the story of lovelorn Syrian refugee Sam Ali (Yahya Mahayni) who is able to travel to Europe thanks to a Faustian pact.

It's a troubling political fable shot with a sophisticated aesthetic, and Tunisia's first-ever Academy Award nomination: 'The Man Who Sold His Skin'. Part dark satire, part romantic drama, the film tells the story of lovelorn Syrian refugee Sam Ali (Yahya Mahayni) who is able to travel to Europe thanks to a Faustian pact. When a contemporary artist tattoos a European Schengen visa across his back, Ali finds himself able to cross international borders as a living work of art. Tunisian writer-director Kaouther Ben Hania ventured outside her native country to dive into two contrasting worlds -- of refugees and contemporary art. "I couldn't stand the victimisation discourse on refugees anymore," said the director, Ben Hania. "My intention from the start was to make him a contemporary hero who comes out on top and turns the adventure to his advantage." The story is partly inspired by the real-life tale of a Belgian man, Tim Steiner, who sold the right to tattoo his back, occasionally exhibit it, and recover the skin after his death, to the artist Wim Delvoye, who makes a cameo in the film. The movie, shot in France, Belgium and Tunisia, alternates between a grating and tender tone as it highlights the cruel absurdity of a system where objects can travel more freely than people. "The Man Who Sold His Skin" is shortlisted in the International Feature Film category for the Oscars, which are held on April 25. Monica Bellucci plays a "fake blonde" gallerist while Syrian actor Yahya Mahayni portrays a sweet freedom-loving dreamer who oscillates between joy and anger in a volatile situation. - 'Total dispossession' - While the refugee is "in total dispossession of his body" during part of the story, "he eventually regains possession of it", said Ben Hania. The characters in the story "resemble me, pushed to the extreme", she confided. Like the Syrian refugee, she said, she has faced "problems of papers to leave for France". And like the eccentric artist in the film, she said, "I reflect on my work to the extreme". Her earlier films have already won awards, including "Beauty and the Dogs" about a young woman's quest for justice after being raped, and "Zaineb Hates the Snow", a documentary about a Tunisian teenager who migrates to Canada. The Oscar nomination "is huge," admitted Ben Hania, who added that she regrets the lack of institutional support for cinema in Tunisia. The film was co-produced with 25 international partners, including in Belgium, France, Germany, Sweden, Tunisia and Qatar, and shot by Lebanese cinematographer Christopher Aoun ("Capernaum"). Raising the budget of 2.5 million euros ($2.9 million) was "a challenge", according to one of the co-producers, Nedim Cheikhrouha, who said the project almost collapsed a year ago due to lack of funds. At the Academy Awards, 'The Man Who Sold His Skin' has fewer promotional resources than other contenders, the producers said. Ben Hania -- who says she is now working on a film "on the edge of genres" between documentary and fiction -- hopes that the Oscar nomination will, at the very least, "make my next films a little easier". "The Man Who Sold His Skin" was released this week in Tunisia and will screen in the United States from April 2, and in Sweden on April 23.

'The Man Who Sold His Skin': Tunisia's dark Oscars nomination

One of Hollywood`s most-talked-about couples may get married soon! Singer Blake Shelton had popped the big question to his lady love Gwen Stefani last October, but when is the duo walking down the aisle? 
 
According to Shelton, it could happen this summer. As per Us Weekly, Shelton was a surprise guest host on the `Today` show`s "Hoda and Jenna" segment on Wednesday and opened up about his upcoming nuptials."I`m afraid if she and I wait until next November, then I`m right back into The Voice cycle again. And I really want to be able to have plenty of time before and after," Shelton told Hoda Kotb.

<a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/gwen-stefani-invites-ellen-degeneres-to-be-her-maid-of-honour-371304" hreflang="en">Gwen Stefani invites Ellen DeGeneres to be her maid of honour</a> 
 
Speaking about the tentative date plans, he said, "Hopefully this summer. I think we`re right here at the point with COVID, it looks like it might be OK, but I don`t know so that`s tentatively the plan."The `God`s Plan` singer noted that a summer ceremony is a tentative plan, joking that he and Stefani, will get married before Kotb, and her fiance, Joel Schiffman, walk down the aisle. 
 
Shelton doesn`t have a definitive date set for his nuptials, but he does have a group of musicians hoping to play at the reception. Earlier this week, Adam Levine joked about performing at the wedding, saying on SiriusXM`s The Morning Mash Up on Monday, March 29, "I would love to.""It`s starting to sound like a Coachella lineup here all of a sudden," the `Austin` crooner joked on Wednesday.He added, "I`ve got all these superstars saying they`re going to do it. I hope so. I don`t know." 
 
The singer explained that he would "love to be able to take everybody up on their offer and have this amazing concert wedding," but things are still up in the air with the pandemic restrictions.

"We`re just waiting every day like everybody else to see what our summer is going to look like and go from there," he added.

<a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/miley-cyrus-wants-to-be-wedding-singer-for-gwen-stefani-and-blake-sheltons-nuptials-360687" hreflang="en">Miley Cyrus wants to be wedding singer for Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton's nuptials</a> 
 
Once the duo gets hitched, Shelton said that is ready to take a step back from the limelight sooner rather than later. "We`ve both pretty much, you know, take it to the limit as far as our careers go and touring and now the television thing. It`s been fortunate to accomplish a lot of things, but hopefully, at some point, we`ll get a chance to live some life," he explained.

He added, "And I think we`re both ready for that, honestly. The older I get, the more I kind of feel like I`m starting to turn into a little bit of a hermit."Us Weekly confirmed Shelton and Stefani`s relationship in 2015 and the couple announced their engagement five years later. 
 
A source exclusively told the outlet in January that Stefani, who was previously married to Gavin Rossdale and shares sons Kingston, Zuma, and Apollo with the 55-year-old rocker, was granted an annulment by the Catholic Church five years after their August 2015 split. 
 
Shelton was previously married to Kaynette Gern from 2003 to 2006 and Miranda Lambert from 2011 to 2015.&nbsp;

One of Hollywood`s most-talked-about couples may get married soon! Singer Blake Shelton had popped the big question to his lady love Gwen Stefani last October, but when is the duo walking down the aisle?

One of Hollywood`s most-talked-about couples may get married soon! Singer Blake Shelton had popped the big question to his lady love Gwen Stefani last October, but when is the duo walking down the aisle? According to Shelton, it could happen this summer. As per Us Weekly, Shelton was a surprise guest host on the `Today` show`s "Hoda and Jenna" segment on Wednesday and opened up about his upcoming nuptials."I`m afraid if she and I wait until next November, then I`m right back into The Voice cycle again. And I really want to be able to have plenty of time before and after," Shelton told Hoda Kotb. Gwen Stefani invites Ellen DeGeneres to be her maid of honour Speaking about the tentative date plans, he said, "Hopefully this summer. I think we`re right here at the point with COVID, it looks like it might be OK, but I don`t know so that`s tentatively the plan."The `God`s Plan` singer noted that a summer ceremony is a tentative plan, joking that he and Stefani, will get married before Kotb, and her fiance, Joel Schiffman, walk down the aisle. Shelton doesn`t have a definitive date set for his nuptials, but he does have a group of musicians hoping to play at the reception. Earlier this week, Adam Levine joked about performing at the wedding, saying on SiriusXM`s The Morning Mash Up on Monday, March 29, "I would love to.""It`s starting to sound like a Coachella lineup here all of a sudden," the `Austin` crooner joked on Wednesday.He added, "I`ve got all these superstars saying they`re going to do it. I hope so. I don`t know." The singer explained that he would "love to be able to take everybody up on their offer and have this amazing concert wedding," but things are still up in the air with the pandemic restrictions. "We`re just waiting every day like everybody else to see what our summer is going to look like and go from there," he added. Miley Cyrus wants to be wedding singer for Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton's nuptials Once the duo gets hitched, Shelton said that is ready to take a step back from the limelight sooner rather than later. "We`ve both pretty much, you know, take it to the limit as far as our careers go and touring and now the television thing. It`s been fortunate to accomplish a lot of things, but hopefully, at some point, we`ll get a chance to live some life," he explained. He added, "And I think we`re both ready for that, honestly. The older I get, the more I kind of feel like I`m starting to turn into a little bit of a hermit."Us Weekly confirmed Shelton and Stefani`s relationship in 2015 and the couple announced their engagement five years later. A source exclusively told the outlet in January that Stefani, who was previously married to Gavin Rossdale and shares sons Kingston, Zuma, and Apollo with the 55-year-old rocker, was granted an annulment by the Catholic Church five years after their August 2015 split. Shelton was previously married to Kaynette Gern from 2003 to 2006 and Miranda Lambert from 2011 to 2015.

Blake Shelton says he will 'hopefully' marry Gwen Stefani this summer

British actor Riz Ahmed portrays a heavy metal drummer going deaf in 'Sound of Metal', a role that has seen him become the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-riz-ahmed-becomes-the-first-muslim-to-get-nominated-in-the-best-actor-category-at-the-oscars-370789"> first Muslim nominated</a> for the best actor Oscar. In the drama, directed by Darius Marder, Ahmed plays Ruben, who is on tour with his singer girlfriend when he loses his hearing. He reluctantly heads off to seek help and learn sign language. 
 
Ahmed, known for 'Rogue One: A Star Wars Story', 'Venom'&nbsp;and 'The Night Of', said preparing for the role, for which he learned to play the drums and American sign language, was "an intensive process". 
 
"Just on an emotional level, it was a very raw script. Darius Marder wrote something really, really heartrending and so just going to that place on an emotional level was quite involving," Ahmed told Reuters.

<a href="http://13.235.153.162/photos/oscars-2021-nominations-the-first-timers-snubs-surprises-370841" hreflang="en">Oscars 2021 nominations: The first timers, snubs, surprises</a> 
 
The 38-year-old, also in the running for a BAFTA next week, is a rapper too. Asked if that helped him to play the drums, he said: "I thought it would be more helpful than it was. I thought I can keep rhythm, I can keep time ... And coordinating your four limbs to go four different speeds, it was a lot." 
"You can`t play the drums, you have to let them play you ... And so much of this performance and so much of this film is actually about surrender and letting go of control and allowing things to happen." 
 
Ruben spends time with deaf children and teaches drumming. "Working with those deaf kids ... was like a masterclass in acting," Ahmed said. "Their focus, their attention, their communication is so embodied."

<a href="http://13.235.153.162/photos/chloe-zhao-to-emerald-funnel-oscars-2021-best-director-nominees-370695" hreflang="en">Chloe Zhao to Emerald Funnel, Oscars 2021 Best Director Nominees</a> 
 
Ahmed made history last month as the first Muslim to get the best actor Oscar nod. "It means a lot to me that as many people as possible can recognise themselves and find themselves in these moments of celebration. It`s great if people can connect to this because I’m the first Muslim nominated in this category," he said. 
 
"I think for a lot of people, they feel really excited that it is the best picture nomination for a film that is open captioned for the deaf community."

British actor Riz Ahmed portrays a heavy metal drummer going deaf in 'Sound of Metal', a role that has seen him become the first Muslim nominated for the best actor Oscar.

British actor Riz Ahmed portrays a heavy metal drummer going deaf in 'Sound of Metal', a role that has seen him become the first Muslim nominated for the best actor Oscar. In the drama, directed by Darius Marder, Ahmed plays Ruben, who is on tour with his singer girlfriend when he loses his hearing. He reluctantly heads off to seek help and learn sign language. Ahmed, known for 'Rogue One: A Star Wars Story', 'Venom' and 'The Night Of', said preparing for the role, for which he learned to play the drums and American sign language, was "an intensive process". "Just on an emotional level, it was a very raw script. Darius Marder wrote something really, really heartrending and so just going to that place on an emotional level was quite involving," Ahmed told Reuters. Oscars 2021 nominations: The first timers, snubs, surprises The 38-year-old, also in the running for a BAFTA next week, is a rapper too. Asked if that helped him to play the drums, he said: "I thought it would be more helpful than it was. I thought I can keep rhythm, I can keep time ... And coordinating your four limbs to go four different speeds, it was a lot." "You can`t play the drums, you have to let them play you ... And so much of this performance and so much of this film is actually about surrender and letting go of control and allowing things to happen." Ruben spends time with deaf children and teaches drumming. "Working with those deaf kids ... was like a masterclass in acting," Ahmed said. "Their focus, their attention, their communication is so embodied." Chloe Zhao to Emerald Funnel, Oscars 2021 Best Director Nominees Ahmed made history last month as the first Muslim to get the best actor Oscar nod. "It means a lot to me that as many people as possible can recognise themselves and find themselves in these moments of celebration. It`s great if people can connect to this because I’m the first Muslim nominated in this category," he said. "I think for a lot of people, they feel really excited that it is the best picture nomination for a film that is open captioned for the deaf community."

Riz Ahmed takes on 'intensive' role as deaf drummer in 'Sound of Metal'

Beyonce became a victim of a storage robbery recently.&nbsp; 
 
Queen B's storage units were broken into by burglars who made the theft of more than USD 1 million worth of valuables. 
 
The Grammy record-breaker&nbsp;is the latest one to have storage units burglarised. Law enforcement sources told TMZ that, "3 L.A. area storage units filled with Beyonce goodies were hit twice by thieves earlier this month, and the culprits swiped her expensive handbags and dresses." 
 
According to the sources, the storage units were rented out by Beyonce's&nbsp;production company titled Parkwood Entertainment. The law enforcement spokesperson said, "The burglars came back within a week, and took down 3 storage units in the same facility ... making off with handbags, kids toys and photos belonging to one of Beyonce`s stylists." 
 
A similar kind of robbery incident has happened with pop-star Miley Cyrus who expensive clothes, family photos and mementoes were robbed from her storage space. 
 
TMZ reported that the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has been investigating the theft; however, there are no arrests yet.

Beyonce became a victim of a storage robbery recently. Queen B's storage units were broken into by burglars who made the theft of more than USD 1 million worth of valuables.

Beyonce became a victim of a storage robbery recently. Queen B's storage units were broken into by burglars who made the theft of more than USD 1 million worth of valuables. The Grammy record-breaker is the latest one to have storage units burglarised. Law enforcement sources told TMZ that, "3 L.A. area storage units filled with Beyonce goodies were hit twice by thieves earlier this month, and the culprits swiped her expensive handbags and dresses." According to the sources, the storage units were rented out by Beyonce's production company titled Parkwood Entertainment. The law enforcement spokesperson said, "The burglars came back within a week, and took down 3 storage units in the same facility ... making off with handbags, kids toys and photos belonging to one of Beyonce`s stylists." A similar kind of robbery incident has happened with pop-star Miley Cyrus who expensive clothes, family photos and mementoes were robbed from her storage space. TMZ reported that the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has been investigating the theft; however, there are no arrests yet.

Burglars hit Beyonce's storage units, $1 million worth goods stolen

Justin Theroux is opening about his current relationship status with ex-wife Jennifer Aniston and he won't mind if&nbsp;they work together on a project soon.

For those who don't know, the ex-couple met and fell in love on the sets of their 2011 film 'Wanderlust' and got engaged a year later and married in 2015. However, a day after Valentine's Day 2018, Justin and Jennifer announced that they have parted their ways.&nbsp;

Justin, who stars in the Apple TV+ series 'The Mosquito Coast',&nbsp;recently in an interview with Entertainment Tonight, talked about the possibilities of their both coming back together on screen.&nbsp;

When asked whether he would make a cameo on Aniston`s `The Morning Show`, he replied, "Listen, if they wanna send me some pages, I would." The `Wanderlust` star revealed he has not touched base with the `Friends` star about her experience as an actor and executive producer on the drama because they are filming on different coasts.

"She`s doing a totally different show. She is in Los Angeles, obviously, shooting her show and bopping around there. So, it was sort of apples and oranges as far as our productions go," he explained.

By talking further, Justin added, ''We check-in and I think we`re both having fabulous experiences working with Apple TV+. It`s that perfect balance of support, and also not controlling the creative," he said. 
 
The 'Friends'&nbsp;star, who was previously married to Brad Pitt from 2000-2005, has remained friends with Justin&nbsp;since their divorce.

Justin Theroux is opening about his current relationship status with ex-wife Jennifer Aniston and he won't mind if they work together on a project soon. For those who don't know, the ex-couple met and fell in love on the sets of their 2011 film 'Wanderlust' and got engaged a year later and married in 2015.

Justin Theroux is opening about his current relationship status with ex-wife Jennifer Aniston and he won't mind if they work together on a project soon. For those who don't know, the ex-couple met and fell in love on the sets of their 2011 film 'Wanderlust' and got engaged a year later and married in 2015. However, a day after Valentine's Day 2018, Justin and Jennifer announced that they have parted their ways. Justin, who stars in the Apple TV+ series 'The Mosquito Coast', recently in an interview with Entertainment Tonight, talked about the possibilities of their both coming back together on screen. When asked whether he would make a cameo on Aniston`s `The Morning Show`, he replied, "Listen, if they wanna send me some pages, I would." The `Wanderlust` star revealed he has not touched base with the `Friends` star about her experience as an actor and executive producer on the drama because they are filming on different coasts. "She`s doing a totally different show. She is in Los Angeles, obviously, shooting her show and bopping around there. So, it was sort of apples and oranges as far as our productions go," he explained. By talking further, Justin added, ''We check-in and I think we`re both having fabulous experiences working with Apple TV+. It`s that perfect balance of support, and also not controlling the creative," he said. The 'Friends' star, who was previously married to Brad Pitt from 2000-2005, has remained friends with Justin since their divorce.

Justin Theroux teases possibility of working with ex-wife Jennifer Aniston

Music fans in Barcelona had rapid COVID-19 tests ahead of attending a rock concert on Saturday in a trial that, if successful, could provide a route to recovery for the ravaged live music industry in Spain and beyond. 
 
Some 5,000 people will attend the sold-out concert for Spanish indie band Love of Lesbian, and will not be required to observe social distancing. Attendees will have to wear face masks throughout the concert in the Palau Sant Jordi arena. 
 
"(This concert) is about the excitement of going out, consuming culture, and dancing in a more or less safe environment," said Sebastian, 47, a teacher getting tested ahead of the concert. "We`re going to dance and have a great time." 
 
The pilot concert, which has been approved by health authorities, will serve as a test for whether similar events will be able to start up again. 
"It will be safer to be in the Palau Sant Jordi than walking down the street," concert co-organiser Jordi Herreruela told Reuters. 
Pre-concert testing was offered at three locations in Barcelona and carried out by 80 nurses wearing full personal protective equipment. Some people winced as nurses swabbed their noses. 
 
By midday, of the 2,400 people already screened, three had tested positive and one had come into contact with a positive case, Dr Josep Maria Libre, one of the doctors overseeing the testing, told Reuters. They would not be able to attend the concert and would get a refund. 
Attendees received the results of their antigen tests in 10 to 15 minutes via an app on their phones. The test and a mask were included in the ticket price. 
 
"People have understood perfectly the measures we`re adopting," said co-organiser Dani Poveda. 
 
"It is a very responsible audience... We know everyone will be looking at this concert as a possible model for how to keep advancing in the fight against the pandemic, which has caused so much damage, both to our sector and many others."

Music fans in Barcelona had rapid COVID-19 tests ahead of attending a rock concert on Saturday in a trial that, if successful, could provide a route to recovery for the ravaged live music industry in Spain and beyond.

Music fans in Barcelona had rapid COVID-19 tests ahead of attending a rock concert on Saturday in a trial that, if successful, could provide a route to recovery for the ravaged live music industry in Spain and beyond. Some 5,000 people will attend the sold-out concert for Spanish indie band Love of Lesbian, and will not be required to observe social distancing. Attendees will have to wear face masks throughout the concert in the Palau Sant Jordi arena. "(This concert) is about the excitement of going out, consuming culture, and dancing in a more or less safe environment," said Sebastian, 47, a teacher getting tested ahead of the concert. "We`re going to dance and have a great time." The pilot concert, which has been approved by health authorities, will serve as a test for whether similar events will be able to start up again. "It will be safer to be in the Palau Sant Jordi than walking down the street," concert co-organiser Jordi Herreruela told Reuters. Pre-concert testing was offered at three locations in Barcelona and carried out by 80 nurses wearing full personal protective equipment. Some people winced as nurses swabbed their noses. By midday, of the 2,400 people already screened, three had tested positive and one had come into contact with a positive case, Dr Josep Maria Libre, one of the doctors overseeing the testing, told Reuters. They would not be able to attend the concert and would get a refund. Attendees received the results of their antigen tests in 10 to 15 minutes via an app on their phones. The test and a mask were included in the ticket price. "People have understood perfectly the measures we`re adopting," said co-organiser Dani Poveda. "It is a very responsible audience... We know everyone will be looking at this concert as a possible model for how to keep advancing in the fight against the pandemic, which has caused so much damage, both to our sector and many others."

5,000 music fans have COVID tests before non-distanced concert in Barcelona

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