Hot Trends: Amanda Knox extradition: US leaders to play crucial role, experts say

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/Lk65ns" width="100%"/><br/><br />Amanda Knox after a TV interview in the US after her conviction was upheld. Photograph: Mark Lennihan/AP<br/><br />The White House attempted to stay out of the Amanda Knox case on Friday but legal experts say it is almost inevitable that US politicians will eventually play a crucial role in deciding whether the 26-year-old Seattle student returns to prison in Italy.<br/><br />It may not be the Obama administration that needs to worry about this thorny political conundrum however, as the complex process of international extradition proceedings that lies ahead could take well over five years to grind its way through various courts.<br/><br />The first step would come if and when the Italian government decides to lodge a formal extradition request with US authorities.<br/><br />This may not take place until after Knox's appeal to the Italian Supreme Court but once it comes, it presents the first opportunity for the US to reject such a request by refusing to process the claim.<br/><br />Such a step would be highly unprecedented however and could cause a serious diplomatic rift between the two countries.<br/><br />"It is rare for the US to deny extradition to countries like Italy, especially since it is both an important ally and a long-standing democracy," said Washington extradition lawyer Bruce Zagaris.<br/><br />"The extradition treaty between the two countries is an important tool for tackling organised crime and terrorism and the US does not want to jeopardise that."<br/><br />A more likely course of action, according to Zagaris, is that the US Department of Justice takes up the case on behalf of the Italian authorities and begins extradition proceedings.<br/><br />This can be drawn out process, with Knox usually able to appeal to higher courts in the US if a writ of habeas corpus is granted against her and typically takes between two and five years.<br/><br />"It would ultimately be up to the Secretary of State if the courts find her extraditable," said Zagaris.<br/><br />"He can use either legal or humanitarian reasons to find that she should not be extradited."<br/><br />One possible legal challenge could rest on the fact the Knox had already been acquitted once by an Italian appeal court in 2011.<br/><br />This appeal overturned her first conviction with former boyfriend Raffaele Sollecito which found them guilty of the murder of British student Meredith Kercher in Perugia in 2007.<br/><br />Italian prosecutors successfully sought this overturned by a higher appeal court which ordered the retrial that convicted her a second time in absentia on Thursday.<br/><br />But Knox's lawyers may argue to whoever is Secretary of State at the time that she has already served a sufficient amount of time in prison.<br/><br />The US has also refused to extradite individuals to Italy before on other grounds, most noticeably in the case of an airforce pilot who killed several Italians when his plane hit a ski lift.<br/><br />So far however, politicians seem keen to stay out and await legal opportunities to avoid any awkward decision.<br/><br />White House press secretary Jay Carney told reporters on Friday it would be inappropriate to comment while the case was still ongoing in the Italian courts and then it would be a matter for the Department of Justice to comment on.</div>

Hot Trends: Amanda Knox extradition: US leaders to play crucial role, experts say

Amanda Knox after a TV interview in the US after her conviction was upheld. Photograph: Mark Lennihan/APThe White House attempted to stay out of the Amanda Knox case on Friday but legal experts say it is almost inevitable that US politicians will eventually play a crucial role in deciding whether th…

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Hot Trends: Scarlett Johansson won't be bullied by activists for Israeli boycott. Good for her

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><br/><br />At a time when a prominent former NBA star is posing for photo ops in North Korea and a Canadian rock star is boorishly comparing Fort McMurray to Hiroshima, it's refreshing to see a celebrity embracing a more nuanced and carefully considered position on international affairs.<br/><br />Scarlett Johansson is ending her relationship with a humanitarian group after being criticized over her support for an Israeli company that operates in the West Bank.<br/><br />A statement released by Johansson's spokesman Wednesday said the 29-year-old actress has "a fundamental difference of opinion" with Oxfam International because the humanitarian group opposes all trade from Israeli settlements, saying they are illegal and deny Palestinian rights. Continue reading...<br/><br />Actress Scarlett Johansson has decided to end her eight-year relationship with the humanitarian group Oxfam International over what her spokesperson called "a fundamental difference of opinion." The 29-year-old actress, who has been criticized for her partnership with SodaStream, an Israeli company making home-carbonation machines and operating a factory in the West Bank, cited Oxfam's position on the "boycott, divestment and sanctions movement" as the reason for her decision to sever ties. Last week, Oxfam released a statement saying that while the group supports the independence of its ambassadors, it opposes "all trade" from Israeli settlements, calling them "illegal" and claiming that they "deny Palestinian rights."<br/><br />"We have made our concerns known to Ms. Johansson and we are now engaged in a dialogue on these important issues," the statement read.<br/><br />And Ms. Johansson, who happens to be Jewish, has politely told Oxfam where it might put those concerns.<br/><br />The actress announced her role as a global ambassador for SodaStream earlier this month, and she is set to appear in a high-profile Super Bowl ad for the company on Feb. 2. In response to earlier criticism, Ms. Johansson defended SodaStream, claiming that the company "is not only committed to the environment but to building a bridge to peace between Israel and Palestine, supporting neighbors working alongside each other, receiving equal pay, equal benefits and equal rights." <img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1nykPhV" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />The SodaStream factory operates in Ma'ale Adumim, a settlement in the West Bank that was captured by the Israelis in 1967. That factory is just one of 25 operated around the world by the Israeli company, which has become the target of boycott, divestment, sanction (BDS) activists around the world. These activists claim that the company operates on illegally occupied land and exploits its Palestinian workers.<br/><br />In fact, the 500-or-so West-Bank-resident Palestinians who work at the Ma'ale Adumim factory are paid the same wages as the Jewish and Arab Israelis who also work on location. The factory has both an onsite synagogue and an onsite mosque, and all workers share the same dining hall and other common areas. SodaStream pays its Palestinian workers three times what they might receive working at typical West Bank jobs, and some Arab Israeli workers have climbed up the ranks to management.<br/><br />SodaStream's critics contend that the company is merely exploiting the cheap land and tax breaks afforded by its West Bank operation, the location of which was decided back in the 1990's. And Palestinian workforce or not, they say, the factory is on illegally occupied territory.<br/><br />Activists ignore the tangible effect that the factory's closure would have on the regular, everyday Palestinian people<br/><br />But this philosophical belief ignores the tangible effect that the factory's closure - the intended aim of the BDS campaign - would have on the regular, everyday Palestinian people who rely on SodaStream to make a living. Forced out of work, these Palestinians would have to contend with the 22% unemployment rate currently plaguing the West Bank.<br/><br />Indeed, this sort of inattention to the palpable effects of boycott is characteristic of the BDS campaign, which continues to push for a intellectually dishonest boycott of Israeli academics and a brazen ban of all sorts of Israeli products - except for those with really significant impacts on our daily lives. You can still take a strong moral stance against Israel while using an Intel chip, right?<br/><br />Ms. Johansson has not allowed herself to be bullied by BDS activists. Good for her. If only all politically engaged celebrities were so worthy of acclaim.<br/><br />National Post <strong>Robyn Urback * rurback@nationalpost.com | robynurback</strong></div>

Hot Trends: Scarlett Johansson won't be bullied by activists for Israeli boycott. Good for her

At a time when a prominent former NBA star is posing for photo ops in North Korea and a Canadian rock star is boorishly comparing Fort McMurray to Hiroshima, it's refreshing to see a celebrity embracing a more nuanced and carefully considered position on international affairs.Scarlett Johansson is e…

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Hot Trends: Super Bowl sex trafficking: Real or just a rumour?

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><br/><br />Members of Congress in Washington heard Monday that the Super Bowl is considered "the single largest human trafficking incident in the United States," and that it's "a breeding ground" and "magnet" for sexual exploitation. But is it really? That's a matter of some debate.<br/><br />A foreign affairs subcommittee met to discuss how New Jersey is preparing for a possible increase in forced prostitution around Sunday's big game and learned that a "robust anti-trafficking plan," is in place, according to the committee's chair Chris Smith.<br/><br />Flyers have been handed out to emergency services staff, law enforcement, and other front-line staff to help them recognize potential victims. More than 10,000 people have undergone formal training, rallies have been held to raise public awareness, and airline and hotel workers are on the lookout.<br/><br />"In less than a week, New Jersey will be hosting the Super Bowl, and along with welcoming enthusiastic fans, the state also is preparing for a likely influx of both domestic and international traffickers," Smith, who represents New Jersey in Congress, said at the hearing.<br/><br />"Sadly, but almost certainly, they will bring with them sexually exploited trafficking victims - many of them from abroad - in an attempt to cash in on the Super Bowl crowds. We know from the past, any sports venue - especially the Super Bowl - acts as a sex trafficking magnet." Hype is 'overblown'<br/><br />There is a general belief that large sporting events such as the Olympics, World Cup and Super Bowl can increase the level of human trafficking while the event is taking place, but there are doubts about the validity of those concerns.<br/><br />Julie Ham, a former researcher with the Global Alliance Against Traffic in Women and author of a report on trafficking and sporting events, said the hype is "overblown." <img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1dcWm9a" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />"These concerns aren't valid. The idea that trafficking increases during large sporting events is an unsubstantiated rumour," she wrote in an email.<br/><br />"Given how serious trafficking actually is, it's really obscene seeing all these resources - money, time, political will - to tackle something that's not there. Or when this rumour is used as excuse to harass and intimidate sex workers," said Ham.<br/><br />The GAATW report said there is no empirical evidence to support the idea and that the connection has been debunked by other groups as well. It looked at what happened at the Vancouver Olympics in 2010 and found that sex work actually fell during that period, and an analysis of Super Bowl and World Cup events found no significant increases as predicted.<br/><br />Annalee Lepp, an assistant professor in the University of Victoria's women's studies department and a member of GAATW Canada said in an interview that predictions about influxes of women for the purposes of prostitution don't come to fruition. There was an estimate, for example, of 40,000 women being "imported" to South Africa for the 2010 World Cup, but not one case of trafficking was documented. Assumptions made about male behaviour<br/><br />That doesn't mean it didn't happen there, or at other events, but the notion that human trafficking explodes when the Super Bowl is held doesn't hold up. According to a report by Indiana's attorney general on the Super Bowl there in 2012, two victims of trafficking were identified and there were a few cases under investigation at the time of the report.<br/><br />"There is an assumption about masculine behaviour here," Lepp said in an interview about where the idea that trafficking goes up originates.<br/><br />With heavy security and police presence at the Super Bowl and tight border controls when international events are held, traffickers are likely to stay away from the events because of the higher risk, and the investments needed to set up shop aren't worth the return, Lepp explained.<br/><br />The New Jersey Coalition Against Human Trafficking acknowledges there is a debate about the issue and posted a "response to those who downplay concern about the Super Bowl" on its website.<br/><br />"Currently, there are very few ways of collecting statistics on human trafficking," it said, adding that governments believe there is a "potential increase" and have tackled the issue for the last three years of the Super Bowl. 'The problem of human trafficking in New Jersey will not end with the Super Bowl.' <cite>-New Jersey Coalition Against Human Trafficking</cite><br/><br />"The Super Bowl is also an opportunity to educate the community. People will stop and listen if you mention Super Bowl but not necessarily if you just talk about human trafficking," the group said.<br/><br />But it added that while a national sporting event can be used to talk about the issue, the conversation shouldn't stop when the game is over. "The problem of human trafficking in New Jersey will not end with the Super Bowl," it noted.<br/><br />Legislators on Capitol Hill heard the same sentiment from a victim of trafficking named Holly Smith, who shared her story of being forced into prostitution when she was 14.<br/><br />"Statistics and claims must be studied and verified. And prevention efforts cannot begin and end with sporting events," Smith said. "Commercial sexual exploitation and trafficking will undoubtedly happen in the New York, New Jersey, area during the first week of February with Super Bowl XLVIII - and the second and third and fourth week of February. And in March and in April and every single day and every single night throughout the year."<br/><br />None of those involved in the issue disputes that human trafficking is a problem - where the disagreement lies is whether it is exacerbated by major sports events. Congressman Smith isn't convinced by GAATW's position.<br/><br />"I would totally disagree with those who say there's an exaggeration going on," he told CNN's Ashleigh Banfield on Thursday. "It's a big problem."</div>

Hot Trends: Super Bowl sex trafficking: Real or just a rumour?

Members of Congress in Washington heard Monday that the Super Bowl is considered "the single largest human trafficking incident in the United States," and that it's "a breeding ground" and "magnet" for sexual exploitation. But is it really? That's a matter of some debate.A foreign affairs subcommitt…

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Hot Trends: ​Hot to trot: China and the world in the Year of the Horse

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1aKvRYB" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />Pepe Escobar is the roving correspondent for Asia Times/Hong Kong, an analyst for RT and TomDispatch, and a frequent contributor to websites and radio shows ranging from the US to East Asia. <img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1bKlx2V" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />In China, what is known as the Spring Festival is the scene of the largest internal migration on earth, year after year. In 2014, no less than 3.6 billion trips will be made on public transport.<br/><br />No wonder the number one portal and search engine in China, Baidu, came up with a spectacular map, refreshed every eight (lucky) hours, pinpointing the most popular departure and arrival cities and the most congested itineraries.<br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1bKlxA4" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />The Chinese zodiac, as we (but not jihad-spewing Wahhabi preachers) all know, assigns an animal - real or mythological - to every year. The horse - widely considered very auspicious - is seventh in the list, preceded by the snake and followed by the goat.<br/><br />China, as we also know, is in a hurry to become the largest economic power in the world. The word 'immediately', in Mandarin, is pronounced as ma shang, which means 'on horseback'.<br/><br />Thus, all across China and the global Chinese diaspora, the most popular Year of the Horse greetings are photos of cash, a house and a car, all on horseback. That means, literally, a wish for the recipient to get hold of lots of dough, buy a house, and buy a car. Immediately, of course.<br/><br />Now imagine 1.3 billion Chinese furiously galloping towards affluence, many at the same time. With a little help from gambling in Macau.<br/><br />Yet it won't be such a fairytale (and ecological disaster). A China Daily editorial admitted that "there's plenty to complain about," listing everything from "urban dwellers about haze" and "rural residents about arbitrary land acquisitions," with special emphasis on "corruption, injustice, income gaps and food safety."<br/><br />A catalogue of ills plaguing still fast-developing China which won't be magically solved by an auspicious horse. Combustibility ahead<br/><br />A key source to decipher what might happen in the Year of the Horse is a feng shui (wind-water) master. All across Asia - and a few Western enclaves - multitudes adjust their lives based on feng shui to achieve the right balance between metal, wood, water, fire and earth, and reap maximum luck and material benefits. The problem is each master usually comes with his own interpretation.<br/><br />This is a Year of the Wooden Horse. Wood is easily combustible. So that will translate into a lot of scandal and conflict.<br/><br />Feng shui masters from Hong Kong to mainland China are talking about a hot - literally - 2014, with temperatures melting people's brains and a propensity towards earthquakes and volcano eruptions. All that because the earth will be 'irritated' by a lot of fire, and because the Wooden Horse is easily combustible. Japan and China, as well as Indonesia, are in the danger zone.<br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1bKlxA6" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />But it's in geopolitics that the Year of the Horse may portend some serious trouble. The immediate configuration is in the South China Sea, with the Diaoyu/Senkaku Islands - that is, the possibility of a hot war, however contained, between China and Japan. Even possible dates are on the radar: February, May or August 2014. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe even telegraphed the chance of war during the Davos talkfest.<br/><br />The US and European Union economies may somehow pull through towards a recovery, while Southeast Asia and South Asia will be turbulent. That's an extrapolation of current trends in emerging markets after the Fed started tweaking with quantitative easing.<br/><br />There are no feng shui alarms regarding Russia; that would imply a smooth Olympics at Sochi and President Putin solidifying his mastery of geopolitical chess.<br/><br />2014 may be very tricky for US President Barack Obama - born in the Year of the Ox in 1961. That would come in the form of "obstacles to cutting through political red tape," according to Hong Kong feng shui master Chow Hon-ming.<br/><br />This implies hell between the Obama administration and Republicans in the Beltway; not only in terms of Obamacare, minimum wage and a new immigration policy, but also what is the key geopolitical story of 2014; the possibility of a definitive nuclear deal between Iran and the P5+1 - which is essentially the story of a possible détente between Washington and Tehran.<br/><br />Some feng shui master must urgently examine the chart of Iranian President Hassan Rouhani - who is bound to face as many internal 'obstacles' as Obama.<br/><br />If we look back in history, the previous Year of the Wooden Horse was 1954. Then, both the US and the USSR were testing nuclear bombs. We all know how it developed; the MAD ( 'mutual assured destruction') meme throughout the Cold War, up to 1989. Talk about turbulence.<br/><br />1954 was also the year of Dien Bien Phu, when Vietnam defeated France - an auspicious victory of the former 'Third World' against neocolonialism - just to have, years later, the exceptionalist (and napalm-heavy) Empire to deal with.<br/><br />So what the world needs in 2014 is perhaps a Trojan horse. A horse that looks like it's wooden, but in fact is made out of an un-combustible material. Just like the Terminator.<br/><br />Kung Hei Fat Choy!<br/><br />The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of RT.</div>

Hot Trends: ​Hot to trot: China and the world in the Year of the Horse

Pepe Escobar is the roving correspondent for Asia Times/Hong Kong, an analyst for RT and TomDispatch, and a frequent contributor to websites and radio shows ranging from the US to East Asia. In China, what is known as the Spring Festival is the scene of the largest internal migration on earth, year …

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Hot Trends: Anna Kendrick Doesn't Think She's "Beer Commercial Hot" in Non-Super Bowl ...

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><br/><br /><strong>Anna Kendrick</strong> hits all of the right witty notes in her highly entertaining Newcastle Brown Ale Non-Super Bowl ad.<br/><br />The 28-year-old Pitch Perfect actress shows off her undeniable sense of humor in a clip centered around appearing in a spot during the big game.<br/><br />The commercial begins with the following message: "Behind the scenes of the mega-huge football game that Newcastle Brown Ale almost made...which almost starred Anna Kendrick."<br/><br />The adorable redhead, who sits in the makeup chair while someone curls her hair, candidly talks about how she was excited to make a commercial for the ale company. Except for one slight problem. <strong>PHOTOS: Anna Kendrick meets Beyoncé at the Grammys</strong> <img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1knYm4w" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />"Turns out they don't even have the money or the permission to make a Super Bowl commercial," Kendrick says, as "Super Bowl" gets bleeped.<br/><br />But things get downright amusing when the starlet tries to come to grips with the company's decision because she doesn't think she is "beer-commercial-babe hot."<br/><br />"I mean, I'm hot," Kendrick says with a straight face. "Like approachable hot, like the-hottest-girl-in-your-improv class hot. Like hot to the kind of guys who, like, feel bad calling a girl hot. But like beer-commercial hot? Am I beer-commercial hot? No, but I love a challenge." <strong>NEWS: Don't approach Anna Kendrick when she's buying underwear</strong><br/><br />Kendrick tweeted about the humorous commercial on Wednesday, Jan. 29, and wrote, "Newcastle paid me to tweet about an ad they didn't make. It's weird time people."<br/><br />The Twilight star also sat down with E! News and dished about the premise of the ad as well as the character she tried to portray.<br/><br />"I get to play this super-bitchy version of myself," she revealed. "They basically let me improv a lot and I didn't know how much I could curse. I kind of went a little psycho."<br/><br />To see more from Kendrick's interview, watch the clip above! <strong>PHOTOS: See Anna Kendrick's best red carpet moments</strong> RELATED VIDEOS:</div>

Hot Trends: Anna Kendrick Doesn't Think She's "Beer Commercial Hot" in Non-Super Bowl ...

Anna Kendrick hits all of the right witty notes in her highly entertaining Newcastle Brown Ale Non-Super Bowl ad.The 28-year-old Pitch Perfect actress shows off her undeniable sense of humor in a clip centered around appearing in a spot during the big game.The commercial begins with the following me…

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Hot Trends: Jesse Eisenberg Is Lex Luthor, Jeremy Irons Playing Alfred, In 'Batman Vs ...

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1jTtzik" width="100%"/><br/><br />English: The British actor Jeremy Irons presenting his new movie Margin Call at the Berlin Film Festival (Berlinale) 2011. Français : L'acteur britannique Jeremy Irons photographié lors de la présentation du film Margin Call à la Berlinale de 2011. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)<br/><br />Warner Bros. has revealed their new Lex Luthor, the villainous businessman set to harass Superman in the upcoming sequel to the $668 million grossing superhero reboot movie Man of Steel. Jesse Eisenberg, best known for portraying Mark Zuckerberg in the Oscar-winning film The Social Network, will take on the role of Luthor, which is expected to be a supporting villain role in the new film, with another villain posing a more direct physical threat to Superman. The identity of a second villain has yet to be officially confirmed, although it's widely assumed based on word from sources familiar with the production.<br/><br />Jeremy Irons, who won an Oscar for his performance as Claus von Bülow in Reversal of Fortune and perhaps best known for his villainous portrayal in Die Hard: With a Vengeance, will take the role as Alfred, the faithful butler of Bruce Wayne (aka Batman), who of course will be played by Ben Affleck in the movie.<br/><br />The casting of Irons isn't a big surprise, as his name has been on the short-list of potential/likely choices for some time. Irons brings the sort of stature and seriousness Warner has always preferred for the role, and continues the tradition of filing the modern DC films with a supporting cast of high-caliber, well-known dramatic stars.<br/><br />Eisenberg is likewise a respected and great performer, nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Zuckerberg and winning acclaim for other rules such as his notable supporting role in The Squid and the Whale and his lead performance in Adventureland, as well as a hilarious comedic turn in Zombieland. However, his casting as Luthor came as a bit of a surprise because of his youthful appearance. Most predictions for the casting were focused on older performers, with only a few relatively younger names showing up in the mix. Joaquin Phoenix was probably the youngest name mentioned, when he was rumored to have been offered the role (that claim, however, was old at best).<br/><br />But in fact, at 30 years old Eisenberg is the same age as Henry Cavill, who will portraying Superman in the film. And many fans were indeed hoping for a Luthor about the same age as the hero.<br/><br />While unexpected, the casting of Eisenberg is in fact a great idea for several reasons. First and foremost, Eisenberg is a terrific actor with a solid resume proving he can handle a wide variety of roles, including several in which he played geniuses with devilish schemes. He has the potential to be a very different sort of Lex Luthor that we've not seen before - someone younger, perhaps even portrayed as a bit younger than Superman, a boy-genius with billions inherited from his father and convinced of his own unique greatness who now faces the prospect of a man bigger, stronger, more unique and great than Luthor could ever hope to be. It's not hard to imagine Eisenberg distilling the qualities of Luthor into a young man whose brilliant mind is matched only by his pettiness and cruelty. <img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1dSTf6q" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />Eisenberg also happens to have a fanbase, and a history of picking good winning projects. Last year's Now You See Me was a sleeper hit, to the tune of $350 million. Of course, the Man of Steel follow-up - tentatively referred to as Batman vs. Superman unless/until a new title is announced - is all but guaranteed to rule the summer, especially now that it's moved release dates to 2016 for a much stronger position. With Batman and Superman squaring off against one another, plus Wonder Woman dropping in for a brief appearance, and the prospect of some other heroes likely cameoing in some way, the film is instantly presumed to be in the running for a $1 billion showing sight-unseen. If it's good or even great, then that figure will of course adjust upward. <img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1dSTgXY" width="100%"/><br/></div>

Hot Trends: Jesse Eisenberg Is Lex Luthor, Jeremy Irons Playing Alfred, In 'Batman Vs ...

English: The British actor Jeremy Irons presenting his new movie Margin Call at the Berlin Film Festival (Berlinale) 2011. Français : L'acteur britannique Jeremy Irons photographié lors de la présentation du film Margin Call à la Berlinale de 2011. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)Warner Bros. has revealed …

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Hot Trends: Anna Kendrick's Hilarious "Non-Super Bowl" Ad For Newcastle Brown Ale ...

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><br/><br /><br/><br />Fans chomping at the bit for Pitch Perfect 2 can bide their time with this! <strong>Anna Kendrick</strong> stars in one of the funniest pre-released Super Bowl commercials yet. Well, technically it can't even been considered a Super Bowl commercial. PHOTOS: Hollywood's hottest football fans<br/><br />In the clip, Kendrick, 28, is pissed that Newcastle Brown Ale lost its money for the Super Bowl commercial she was hired for. PHOTOS: Celebrity wives and girlfriends of NFL players<br/><br />"So I'm back to doing indie cred stuff, which is great, but you can't stuff indie cred down a stripper's G-string," she joked while getting groomed by a hairstylist in front of a mirror. <img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1nvJS59" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />"I was surprised that I even got offered the part, because I don't think of myself as like beer commercial babe hot," she muses. "I mean, I'm hot, but like approachable hot, like the hottest girl in your improv class hot. Like hot to the kind of guys who feel bad calling a girl hot. But like beer commercial hot? No. But I love a challenge." PHOTOS: Celebrities at the 2013 Super Bowl<br/><br />The Into the Woods star spouts plenty of bleeped-out expletives before throwing her hands up, shouting "Suck it!," and walking out. A six pack of Newcastle Brown Ale is then placed before the camera with the slogan, "Newcastle: No Bollocks."<br/><br />Tell Us: What do you think of Kendrick's Super Bowl ad?</div>

Hot Trends: Anna Kendrick's Hilarious "Non-Super Bowl" Ad For Newcastle Brown Ale ...

Fans chomping at the bit for Pitch Perfect 2 can bide their time with this! Anna Kendrick stars in one of the funniest pre-released Super Bowl commercials yet. Well, technically it can't even been considered a Super Bowl commercial. PHOTOS: Hollywood's hottest football fansIn the clip, Kendrick, 28,…

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Hot Trends: The Year of the Horse: Chinese New Year Celebrations Around the World

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1fiwbAC" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />Like TIME on Facebook for more breaking news and current events from around the globe!<br/><br />Friday, January 31 marks the beginning of the Spring Festival, the literal translation of the celebration of Chinese New Year. For two weeks, families around the world will gather for commemorations with dances, fireworks, meals, gifts of money in red envelopes ( both physical and digital) and decorations with handwritten poetry, culminating with the Lantern Festival on the 15th day of the first month in the lunar year.<br/><br />Each year in the Chinese calendar has a corresponding zodiac animal, and today marks the turnover from the Year of the Snake to the Year of the Horse. Here's a look at Chinese New Year celebrations around the world. <img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1eqfoeh" width="100%"/><br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1fiwbQQ" width="100%"/><br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1jhV9ns" width="100%"/><br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/LVVe4i" width="100%"/><br/><br />Kiev's Battlefield: Protests Ignite Fiery Clashes in Ukraine</div>

Hot Trends: The Year of the Horse: Chinese New Year Celebrations Around the World

Like TIME on Facebook for more breaking news and current events from around the globe!Friday, January 31 marks the beginning of the Spring Festival, the literal translation of the celebration of Chinese New Year. For two weeks, families around the world will gather for commemorations with dances, fi…

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Hot Trends: Chris Christie: More documents coming in traffic-jam scandal

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><br/><br />A wounded Chris Christie is working to move beyond the most challenging test of his political career, while the New Jersey Republican governor's critics promise to keep probing a traffic scandal that rocked his administration this week and threatens to tarnish his national image ahead of the next presidential contest.<br/><br />Christie's allies suggest the worst is behind him, although federal prosecutors are examining the case and thousands more internal documents are scheduled for release on Friday.<br/><br />"I am embarrassed and humiliated by the conduct of some of the people on my team," the famously blunt Christie said Thursday while facing reporters.<br/><br />Christie had previously assured the public that his staff had nothing to do with lane closings last fall that caused major backups at the George Washington Bridge. <img height="300" src="http://i.cbc.ca/1.2489256.1389213376!/cpImage/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/original_300/traffic-mystery.jpg" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />But after documents revealed Wednesday that his administration may have intentionally caused the traffic jam to exact political retribution, the governor fired a top aide and jettisoned his chief political adviser.<br/><br />Christie adamantly denied any personal "knowledge or involvement" in the lane closures, a passionate pronouncement that satisfied some critics in the short term but creates political risk amid ongoing investigations.<br/><br />Democrats and Republicans said the governor's 2016 presidential prospects could be severely undermined, if not crippled, should new evidence emerge that contradicts this week's denials.<br/><br />"Unless something new develops, I think he'll survive," said former New Jersey Gov. Tom Kean, a Republican whom Christie has described as a mentor. "But if there's a pattern of these things, if other incidents emerge with similar characteristics, that's going to be a real problem." Reinforcing his image<br/><br />David Axelrod, a top adviser to President Barack Obama's campaigns, said Christie handled the high-profile news conference "as well as he could."<br/><br />"Unless smoking gun turns up tying him 2 scheme, or others arise, he lives to fight another day," Axelrod wrote on Twitter.<br/><br />Christie said he fired Deputy Chief of Staff Bridget Anne Kelly "because she lied to me" when he demanded weeks ago that anyone who knew anything about the episode come forward. He also cut ties to former campaign manager Bill Stepien, asking him to withdraw a bid to become the next state Republican chairman.<br/><br />The governor said he was disturbed by the "callous indifference" Stepien displayed in emails released this week. Stepien had widely been seen as a potential campaign manager for Christie if he runs for president and had been tapped to serve as a senior political aide on the Republican Governors Association, which Christie will lead for the next year. 'Abuse of power by government officials is wrong, whether it's closing lanes in Fort Lee, using the IRS to target political opponents, or waiving the law regarding Obamacare.' <cite>- Jenny Beth Martin, Tea Party Patriots</cite><br/><br />Christie said he is still looking into the episode and will take action against other senior staff members if warranted.<br/><br />Some Republicans defended the governor, who faced reporters for nearly two hours Thursday and then travelled to Fort Lee, a borough near the entrance to the bridge, to personally apologize to the mayor and community residents.<br/><br />Documents show that Christie's aides appeared to close the lanes to punish the mayor for refusing to endorse Christie during his recent re-election campaign.<br/><br />"He apologized, took full responsibility and acted decisively in firing those responsible," said Fred Malek, a top Republican financial donor. "If anything, it serves to reinforce his image as a strong and effective governor." Time will tell<br/><br />The issue is far from over for Christie.<br/><br />Democrats in the New Jersey Legislature could spend months investigating the case, forcing Christie and his staff to defend themselves.<br/><br />U.S. Attorney Paul Fishman is reviewing the case and the general inspector of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which oversees the bridge, also is investigating. In Washington, Democratic Senator Jay Rockefeller, chairman of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, has demanded answers about the debacle. <img height="300" src="http://i.cbc.ca/1.2491274.1389350398!/cpImage/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/original_300/christie-traffic-jams.jpg" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />Political strategists suggested the episode offers future opponents a readymade line of attack - who likes a traffic jam? - that strikes at the very heart of the inclusive political brand Christie has worked to cultivate. Driven by partisan politics, the lane closures clogged one of the world's busiest bridges for days, delaying children from getting to school and first responders from emergencies.<br/><br />The bridge affair also reinforces a negative stereotype from critics who say Christie's no-holds-barred approach makes him nothing more than a bully in a state known for its tough guy politics. And it comes on the eve of a second term that was designed to be a springboard to a national campaign.<br/><br />In less than two weeks, Christie plans to celebrate his inauguration at Ellis Island, gateway for millions of immigrants and so a symbolic location designed to showcase his ability to appeal to a broad swath of voters.<br/><br />He will also outline his second-term priorities in the coming weeks and begin an aggressive national travel schedule as chairman of the Republican Governors Association.<br/><br />Whether the traffic scandal will define Christie's future is hard to tell. But it raises the question of whether Christie can become a breakthrough figure in the Republican Party at a time when many Americans bemoan dysfunctional government or simply become part of the gridlock.<br/><br />"Abuse of power by government officials is wrong, whether it's closing lanes in Fort Lee, using the IRS to target political opponents, or waiving the law regarding Obamacare," said Jenny Beth Martin of the Tea Party Patriots, lumping together the New Jersey scandal with incidents that have dogged Obama's second term.<br/><br />"Gov. Christie held some subordinates accountable. Time will tell whether this is enough."</div>

Hot Trends: Chris Christie: More documents coming in traffic-jam scandal

A wounded Chris Christie is working to move beyond the most challenging test of his political career, while the New Jersey Republican governor's critics promise to keep probing a traffic scandal that rocked his administration this week and threatens to tarnish his national image ahead of the next pr…

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Hot Trends: 'Anti-Semitic' comic Dieudonné M'Bala M'Bala's show banned hours after Nantes ...

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><br/><br />As conflicting rulings by French authorities over Dieudonné M'Bala M'Bala's act sowed widespread confusion, riot police carrying shields blocked access to the Zenith theatre in the western city of Nantes.<br/><br />Thousands of stunned ticket-holders in the nearly sold-out show chanted and hissed.<br/><br />The 47-year-old comedian has been convicted more than a half-dozen times for inciting racial hatred or anti-Semitism in shows in which the Holocaust has been derided. He also has popularised the "quenelle" hand gesture, which Valls has criticized as an "inverted Nazi salute."<br/><br />Dieudonné , as he is known, denies that his act and the "quenelle" are anti-Semitic.<br/><br />Tensions over Dieudonné have played out on national television for days as they reached all the way to the pinnacle of the state, raising sometimes uncomfortable questions about free expression and anti-Semitism in today's France.<br/><br />The tug-of-war over Thursday's show involved a multitude of French authorities: the Council of State, the country's highest administrative body; the city of Nantes; a court in Nantes and Interior Minister Manuel Valls.<br/><br />Valls wants Dieudonné , (pronounced DYEU-dun-ay), kept off all stages in France, denouncing what he calls the "mechanics of hate" relayed by the comic.<br/><br />The city of Nantes had banned the comic's performance, but a Nantes court overturned that ban earlier Thursday. Valls then took the matter to the ultimate authority, the Council of State, asking for an unusual urgent decision.<br/><br />"In the face of the mechanics of hate ... we need firmness and determination and great calm," the interior minister said.<br/><br />Citing a risk to public safety, the Council banned the performance only two hours before the show was to begin. It brushed aside claims that Dieudonné would change his show to avoid offensive language, and said a "serious risk" of "grave attacks" to fundamental French values could not be dismissed.<br/><br />Valls declared that France had been made stronger by the decision to keep Dieudonné off the stage in Nantes.<br/><br />"(But) the combat against the nauseating words of this personage continues," Valls said on the iTele TV station. "Citizens should not go to these shows."<br/><br />There was no immediate reaction from Dieudonné, who had arrived expecting to perform after winning the first court battle. However, his Facebook page advised fans to avoid confrontation and go home "singing the Marseillaise," the French national anthem.<br/><br />His fans and police eventually dispersed without serious incidents after the show was cancelled.<br/><br />Thursday's legal drama may be just the beginning of a longer battle. <img height="300" src="http://www.independent.co.uk/incoming/article9028299.ece/ALTERNATES/w220/Anelka.jpgv3" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />The Nantes show was to kick off a national tour. At least eight of the nearly 30 French cities where the comic's tour is planned through June are known to have banned his performances. Dieudonné has said he will fight them one by one.<br/><br />Well-known Nazi hunter Serge Klarsfeld said it would be "intolerable" for the comedian to be allowed to stage Thursday night's show, given what already is happening in France.<br/><br />"We have a country in which anti-Semitism is freely accepted," he said in a statement.<br/><br />Valls is the most popular minister in France's Socialist government, but his adamant stance against Dieudonné, while drawing praise from leading conservative rivals, has left some mystified. Fears have been expressed that any bans on the show could prove counterproductive or even illegal.<br/><br />The comic was convicted last fall for using the word "Shoananas," a mash-up of the Hebrew word for Holocaust and the French word for pineapple. A song containing the word is seen as deriding Holocaust survivors and victims. Some fans hoping to see Thursday's show carried pineapples.<br/><br />Last week, an investigation was opened after Dieudonné allegedly made an anti-Semitic slur toward a Jewish journalist on France-Inter radio.<br/><br />"When I hear him (the journalist) talk, you see ... I say to myself, gas chambers ... a pity," Dieudonne said during a performance last month.</div>

Hot Trends: 'Anti-Semitic' comic Dieudonné M'Bala M'Bala's show banned hours after Nantes ...

As conflicting rulings by French authorities over Dieudonné M'Bala M'Bala's act sowed widespread confusion, riot police carrying shields blocked access to the Zenith theatre in the western city of Nantes.Thousands of stunned ticket-holders in the nearly sold-out show chanted and hissed.The 47-year-o…

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Hot Trends: Drew Barrymore Shows Off Pregnancy Bump, Looks Stunning At PCAs

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://pmchollywoodlife.files.wordpress.com/2014/01/drew-barrymore-bump-watch-peoples-choice-awards-2014-lead.jpg?w=600" width="100%"/><br/><br />The glowing mama-to-be looked gorgeous while presenting an award at the 2014 People's Choice Awards on Jan. 8 - and her flowing high-waisted skirt really highlighted her baby bump!<br/><br /><strong>Drew Barrymore</strong> looked positively radiant while presenting at the 2014 <strong>People's Choice Awards</strong> on Jan. 8 in Los Angeles, Cali. - her pregnancy glow was just so beautiful! The actress, who is expecting her second daughter with husband <strong>Will Kopelman</strong>, showed off her growing baby bump in a pretty cream-toned top and gauzy yellow skirt that highlighted her tummy. Drew Barrymore People's Choice Awards Baby Bump: Pretty Yellow Maxi Skirt<br/><br />Drew, 38, combined comfy and glamorous for her pretty PCAs look! She looked so chic wearing bold red lipstick and a sophisticated slicked-back hairstyle paired with a true maternity wear fashion staple: a colorful maxi skirt!<br/><br />Nina & Ian Kiss - People's Choice Awards<br/><br />Take Our Poll<br/><br />She already a mom to an adorable little girl named <strong>Olive</strong>, 15 months, so she is a total pro at putting together stylish fashions for busy moms-on-the-go like this look! Drew Barrymore Happier Than Ever During Second Pregnancy<br/><br />Drew is just happier than ever during this pregnancy, and it's showing!<br/><br />"I'm feeling very, very happy. Happy and healthy - mentally and physically," Drew told after announcing she is expecting again. "When I found out I was overjoyed. It always feels so surreal, it's incredible. [I'm feeling] incredible, that 'Here we go again' feeling. And blessed. Blessed!"<br/><br />Her excitement reads in her radiant smile - and her sunny disposition shows in her choice of fashion colors!<br/><br />What do YOU think, <strong>HollyMoms</strong>? Do you think Drew looked gorgeous at the People's Choice Awards? <strong>- Kristine Hope Kowalski</strong> More Drew Barrymore News:<br/><br />Drew Barrymore: I Will Never 'Get Up At 5am To Exercise' Drew Barrymore Reveals Sex Of Second Baby Drew Barrymore Reveals Her Pregnancy Cravings & Indulgences</div>

Hot Trends: Drew Barrymore Shows Off Pregnancy Bump, Looks Stunning At PCAs

The glowing mama-to-be looked gorgeous while presenting an award at the 2014 People's Choice Awards on Jan. 8 - and her flowing high-waisted skirt really highlighted her baby bump!Drew Barrymore looked positively radiant while presenting at the 2014 People's Choice Awards on Jan. 8 in Los Angeles, C…

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Hot Trends: Coachella 2014 lineup revealed

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><br/><br />Grammy-winning hip hop duo Outkast will reunite at the 2014 Coachella Music and Arts Festival, with chart-topping rockers Arcade Fire and Muse also tapped as headliners for this year's edition of the three-day music extravaganza.<br/><br />Organizers revealed on Wednesday evening this year's lineup for southern California's desert music fest, which runs on consecutive weekends, April 11-13 and 18-20.<br/><br />This year marks the 20th anniversary of Outkast's debut album, Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik. The eclectic pair - André (André 3000) Benjamin and Antwan (Big Boi) Patton - is considered among the most experimental and creative hip hop acts and has won a host of awards. In 2004, Outkast was the first hip hop group ever to win one of the top Grammys: album of the year (for the smash hit double-album Speakerboxx/The Love Below). <img height="300" src="http://i.cbc.ca/1.2490385.1389289519!/cpImage/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/original_300/arcade-fire.jpg" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />After releasing their sixth studio album Idewild, which also served the soundtrack for their movie musical of the same name, the Atlanta duo have since pursued solo endeavours, including albums and movie roles.<br/><br />Arcade Fire adds the headlining Coachella gig to its busy touring slate in support of its latest album, Reflektor, unveiled in late October. The Montreal-based band is also set to headline the U.K.'s Glastonbury Festival in late June.<br/><br />Popular British rock group Muse released its third live album and DVD ( Live at Rome Olympic Stadium) in November.<br/><br />As well as high-profile reunions, Coachella is known for its star-packed audience and offering an wide-ranging slate of acts: from long-established veterans to hip newcomers.<br/><br />Other artists set for Coachella 2014 include:<br/><br />In addition to Arcade Fire, other Canadian musicians making the trip down to Indio, Calif. for Coachella include Toronto electronic band Austra and singer-songwriter City and Colour.</div>

Hot Trends: Coachella 2014 lineup revealed

Grammy-winning hip hop duo Outkast will reunite at the 2014 Coachella Music and Arts Festival, with chart-topping rockers Arcade Fire and Muse also tapped as headliners for this year's edition of the three-day music extravaganza.Organizers revealed on Wednesday evening this year's lineup for souther…

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Hot Trends: Images capture moments Niagara Falls froze over

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><br/><br />Amid the frigid temperatures brought on by the polar vortex, parts of Niagara Falls came to a standstill this week as the waters literally froze in place as they fell.<br/><br />Niagara Falls resident Tim Williams took these photos on Wednesday at around 7 p.m. from the Canadian side of the Falls, overlooking the American side.<br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://toronto.ctvnews.ca/polopoly_fs/1.1630825!/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_620/image.jpg" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://toronto.ctvnews.ca/polopoly_fs/1.1630821!/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_620/image.jpg" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />In an email, Williams told CTV Toronto that he spent approximately 30 minutes photographing the Falls.<br/><br />"I only stopped shooting the Falls because my fingers were freezing in my gloves," he said.<br/><br />Williams, who has lived in Niagara Falls for eight years, said he's never seen them like this.<br/><br />Other photos and videos of the frozen Falls were posted to social media.<br/><br />These were posted to Instagram on Wednesday:<br/><br />And this photo was posted on Sunday:<br/><br />On Wednesday, the temperature in Niagara Falls dropped to a low of -8 C, but felt like -19 C with the wind chill, according to Environment Canada.<br/><br />The temperature in Niagara Falls is forecast to rise for the remainder of the week, with a high of 10 C on Saturday, according to the weather agency.</div>

Hot Trends: Images capture moments Niagara Falls froze over

Amid the frigid temperatures brought on by the polar vortex, parts of Niagara Falls came to a standstill this week as the waters literally froze in place as they fell.Niagara Falls resident Tim Williams took these photos on Wednesday at around 7 p.m. from the Canadian side of the Falls, overlooking …

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Hot Trends: Mae Young -- NOT DEAD ... But Gravely Ill Wrestling Legend Mae Young

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://ll-media.tmz.com/2014/01/09/0108-mae-young-wwe-5.jpg" width="100%"/><br/><br /><strong>WWE</strong> Hall of Fame wrestler <strong>Mae Young</strong> died this morning in South Carolina ... after she was taken off life support for an undisclosed illness.Young -- the only wrestler to compete in NINE DIFFERENT DECADES (her first match in 1939; her last in 2010) -- was hospitalized and placed on life support last month ... but ultimately passed away on Thursday. The news was first reported by <strong>the Post and Courier</strong>.Mae and fellow pioneer female wrestler <strong>The Fabolous Moolah</strong> returned to the WWE back in 1999 -- when they were both in their 70s -- and were involved in numerous iconic moments like being power bombed through a table by the <strong>Dudley Boyz</strong> ... and the birth of "hand."She was 90.<img height="300" src="http://ll-media.tmz.com/2014/01/09/010914-mae-young-launch-2.jpg" width="100%"/><br/></div>

Hot Trends: Mae Young -- NOT DEAD ... But Gravely Ill Wrestling Legend Mae Young

WWE Hall of Fame wrestler Mae Young died this morning in South Carolina ... after she was taken off life support for an undisclosed illness.Young -- the only wrestler to compete in NINE DIFFERENT DECADES (her first match in 1939; her last in 2010) -- was hospitalized and placed on life support last …

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Hot Trends: Chris Christie apologizes, fires staffer

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><br/><br />New Jersey Republican Gov. Chris Christie has fired a top aide who orchestrated lane closures that jammed traffic for days in a local Democratic rival's town last September.<br/><br />Christie, appearing at a news conference Thursday morning, apologized for the incident and said he has dumped Bridget Kelly as his deputy chief of staff, effective immediately.<br/><br />The governor, long-rumoured to be planning a 2016 presidential run, said it was "stupid and deceitful" for Kelly not to reveal what she knew about the scandal when asked about the traffic tie-ups four weeks ago.<br/><br />He said he himself had no knowledge or involvement in the planning or execution of the lane closings. <strong>More to come</strong> <img height="300" src="http://i.cbc.ca/1.2489256.1389213376!/cpImage/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/original_300/traffic-mystery.jpg" width="100%"/><br/></div>

Hot Trends: Chris Christie apologizes, fires staffer

New Jersey Republican Gov. Chris Christie has fired a top aide who orchestrated lane closures that jammed traffic for days in a local Democratic rival's town last September.Christie, appearing at a news conference Thursday morning, apologized for the incident and said he has dumped Bridget Kelly as …

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Hot Trends: Google honours Simone de Beauvoir

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://vipmedia.globalnews.ca/2014/01/simone-de-beauvoir.jpg?w=282&h=188&crop=1" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />;<br/><br />TORONTO - If Simone de Beauvoir were around to celebrate her 106th birthday, she would almost certainly be proud of the lives of women today.<br/><br />The French writer and existentialist, best known for her feminist work titled The Second Sex, was celebrated by Google Thursday with a Doodle commemorating her 106th birthday.<br/><br />Born in Paris in 1908, de Beauvoir studied philosophy at the Sorbonne and attended Paris' elite school École Normale.<br/><br />The Second Sex, published in 1949, details the treatment of women throughout history and is known as one of the founding works of modern feminism.<br/><br />The writer also published fictional novels including She Came to Stay and The Blood of Others.<br/><br />She was a leader of the existentialist movement along with her lifelong partner Jean-Paul Sartre. The two never married because de Beauvoir believed their relationship should not be defined by an institution. She believed not marrying or having kids would allow her to focus on her studies and writing.<br/><br />De Beauvoir was quoted as saying, "I am too intelligent, too demanding, and too resourceful for anyone to be able to take charge of me entirely. No one knows me or loves me completely. I have only myself."<br/><br />De Beauvoir died at age 78. She is buried beside Sartre in the Cimetière du Montparnasse in Paris. <strong>Key quotes from Simone de Beauvoir</strong><br/><br />"One is not born, but rather becomes, a woman."<br/><br />"If you live long enough, you'll see that every victory turns into a defeat."<br/><br />"In itself, homosexuality is as limiting as heterosexuality: the ideal should be to be capable of loving a woman or a man; either, a human being, without feeling fear, restraint, or obligation."<br/><br />"Self-knowledge is no guarantee of happiness, but it is on the side of happiness and can supply the courage to fight for it."<br/><br />© Shaw Media, 2014</div>

Hot Trends: Google honours Simone de Beauvoir

;TORONTO - If Simone de Beauvoir were around to celebrate her 106th birthday, she would almost certainly be proud of the lives of women today.The French writer and existentialist, best known for her feminist work titled The Second Sex, was celebrated by Google Thursday with a Doodle commemorating he…

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Hot Trends: People's Choice Awards 2014: Sandra Bullock the night's top winner as Ellen ...

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><br/><br />Sandra Bullock reigned supreme at the 40th annual People's Choice Awards, taking home four trophies as the evening's top winner.<br/><br />The actress was named favourite movie actress, comedic actress, dramatic actress and shared the favourite movie duo award with Gravity co-star George Clooney. Bullock's buddy comedy, The Heat, co-starring Melissa McCarthy, was awarded favourite comedic movie. <img height="300" src="http://wpmedia.arts.nationalpost.com/2014/01/bullock-the-heat.jpg?w=940&h=705" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />Fans deemed Ellen DeGeneres their favourite daytime TV host, making her the woman who has gained the most People's Choice Awards with a total of 14 trophies.<br/><br />"As a young girl growing up in New Orleans, if anyone would have told me I was going to win 14 People's Choice Awards I ... I mean 12, yes. 13, maybe. But 14?" joked DeGeneres, host of The Ellen DeGeneres Show, who said that she wanted to make the show for everyone from old, young, black, white, guy and straight.<br/><br />Iron Man 3 scored three awards including favourite movie, action movie and the film's star, Robert Downey Jr., channeling Iron Man in his acceptance speech, received the favourite action movie star honour.<br/><br />Justin Timberlake also nabbed three awards. Among them was the favourite album accolade for The 20/20 Experience. In a sweet moment, he thanked his "beautiful wife," Jessica Biel, "for teaching me patience and the little things like just putting the dishes in the dishwasher. It goes a long way. Fellas, you're welcome." <img height="300" src="http://wpmedia.arts.nationalpost.com/2014/01/timberlake-peoples-choice.jpg?w=940&h=705" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />Katy Perry, who was not at the show, scored the win for favourite video for the third year in a row, following up last year's award for Part of Me and 2012′s honour for Last Friday Night with her hit Roar this year.<br/><br />A pregnant Drew Barrymore, who joked that DeGeneres had called her fat backstage, presented her Blended co-star Adam Sandler with the comedic movie actor award.<br/><br />After debuting her talk show The Queen Latifah Show in 2013, fans crowned Queen Latifah their favourite new talk show host.<br/><br />Ian Somerhalder and Nina Dobrev, the stars of The Vampire Diaries, earned the award for best on-screen chemistry at the People's Choice Awards. The duo, who had their round of break-ups and make-ups on-screen and off, joked about their coupledom.<br/><br />"The good thing is chemistry," said Dobrev, with her arm around Somerhalder, who she is no long romantically attached to. They managed to make a would-be awkward moment entertaining by addressing their buzz-worthy pairing head-on.<br/><br />Shemar Moore heavily hit on fellow presenter Malin Akerman, cracking jokes about ebony and ivory and saying he didn't see a ring on her finger. She played right along, leaning in as the crowd cheered them on.<br/><br />Stephen Colbert won the favourite late night talk show host award, Britney Spears picked up the favourite pop artist honour, and Kaley Cuoco received the favourite comedic TV actress prize as well as the favourite TV comedy award, along with the rest of the cast of The Big Bang Theory.<br/><br />Sara Bareilles performed her hit Brave, country star Brad Paisley took the stage to sing The Mona Lisa and OneRepublic sang Counting Stars.<br/><br />Jennifer Hudson was the show's second humanitarian award recipient for her work with children via her Julian D. King Gift Foundation. Bullock gained the show's first humanitarian award in 2013 for her efforts in storm-ravaged New Orleans.<br/><br />Accompanied on stage by her sister Julia, Hudson, holding back tears, accepted the favourite humanitarian award. "My mother always taught us without family you have nothing," Hudson said. "Whether you know it or not, we all are family. What happens to the other happens to us. It's one thing to be a celebrity and have power, but it means nothing if we're not making a difference and helping someone else. It feels good to see positivity acknowledged. Where we come from all you hear about is who shot who and who went to jail. There is more to life than the block you live on. We want to show them that I came from the same area and if I can do it, you can do it too."<br/><br />LL Cool J presented Hudson with the award. The Oscar-winning actress created the Chicago-based Julian D. King Gift Foundation with her sister, Julia Hudson, in honour of her nephew, Julian King, who was murdered in 2008 at the age of 7.<br/><br />2 Broke Girls stars Kat Dennings and Beth Behrs hosted the show at the Nokia Theatre. <strong>The 2014 People's Choice Awards: Full list of winners</strong><br/><br />Movie: Iron Man 3 Movie actor: Johnny Depp Movie actress: Sandra Bullock Movie duo: Sandra Bullock and George Glooney, Gravity Action movie: Iron Man 3 Action movie star: Robert Downey Jr. Comedic movie: The Heat Comedic movie actor: Adam Sandler Comedic movie actress: Sandra Bullock Dramatic movie: Gravity Dramatic movie actor: Leonardo DiCaprio Dramatic movie actress: Sandra Bullock Family movie: Despicable Me 2 Horror movie: Carrie Thriller movie: Now You See Me Year-end movie: The Hunger Games: Catching Fire Network TV comedy: The Big Bang Theory Comedic TV actor: Chris Colfer Comedic TV actress: Kaley Cuoco Network TV drama: The Good Wife Dramatic TV actor: Josh Charles Dramatic TV actress: Stana Katic Actor in a new TV series: Joseph Morgan Actress in a new TV series: Sarah Michelle Gellar TV crime drama: Castle Competition TV show: The Voice Cable TV comedy: Psych Cable TV drama: The Walking Dead Cable TV show: Homeland Cable TV actress: Lucy Hale TV anti-hero: Rick Grimes, The Walking Dead TV bromance: Sam, Dean and Castiel, Supernatural TV gal pals: Rachel and Santana, Glee On-screen chemistry: Damon and Elena, The Vampire Diaries Sci-fi/fantasy TV show: Beauty and the Beast Sci-fi/fantasy TV actor: Ian Somerhalder Sci-fi/fantasy TV actress: Kristin Kreuk TV movie/miniseries: American Horror Story Daytime TV host(s): Ellen DeGeneres New talk show host: Queen Latifah Late night talk show host: Stephen Colbert Streaming series: Orange is the New Black Series we miss most: Breaking Bad New TV comedy: Super Fun Night New TV drama: Reign Male artist: Justin Timberlake Female artist: Demi Lovato Breakout artist: Ariana Grande Pop artist: Britney Spears Country artist: Taylor Swift Hip-hop artist: Macklemore and Ryan Lewis R&amp;B artist: Justin Timberlake Band: One Direction Alternative band: Fall Out Boy Song: Roar, Katy Perry Album: The 20/20 Experience, Justin Timberlake Music video: Roar, Katy Perry Music fan following: Lovatics, Demi Lovato</div>

Hot Trends: People's Choice Awards 2014: Sandra Bullock the night's top winner as Ellen ...

Sandra Bullock reigned supreme at the 40th annual People's Choice Awards, taking home four trophies as the evening's top winner.The actress was named favourite movie actress, comedic actress, dramatic actress and shared the favourite movie duo award with Gravity co-star George Clooney. Bullock's bud…

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Hot Trends: Drew Barrymore Shows Off Baby Bump, Jokes Ellen DeGeneres "Told Me I Was ...

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://assets-s3.usmagazine.com/uploads/assets/articles/69397-drew-barrymore-baby-bump-jokes-ellen-degeneres-fat/1389280153_ellen-degeneres-drew-barrymore-lg.jpg" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />Merry mama! Pregnant-again <strong>Drew Barrymore</strong> looked radiant and comfortable at the 2014 People's Choice Awards held Wednesday, Jan. 8 in L.A. as she joked about her baby bump.<br/><br />The 38-year-old star, who is currently expecting her second baby -- another girl! -- with husband <strong>Will Kopelman</strong>, presented the Favorite Comedic Movie Actor award onstage. Wearing a white stretch T-shirt dress with a yellow tulle skirt from Vionnet's spring 2014 collection, Barrymore left her long brunette locks parted down the center and added a bright swipe of lip color to her sunny outfit.<br/><br />PHOTOS: Drew and what celebs wore to the People's Choice Awards<br/><br />The actress joked before the packed Nokia Theater, "<strong>Ellen DeGeneres</strong> told me I was fat!" Attempting to diffuse the comment, she quipped, "But I'm not, it was a joke. It was really funny." The two were photographed laughing together backstage and will reunite on the Ellen show on Jan. 15 when Barrymore stops by for a chat with the People's Choice Awards Favorite Host winner. PHOTOS: 2013's babies of the year!<br/><br />She then presented the award to 50 First Dates costar <strong>Adam Sandler</strong>, who read a faux letter written by his "fan for life, Drew Barrymore." He joked to the pregnant actress, "By the way, you do look like you lost weight." (Sandler and Barrymore will reunite for yet another comedy in 2014: The new film, Blended, will involve a "romantic" vacation with the costars' kids in Africa.) PHOTOS: Drew's wild style<br/><br />Barrymore told Women's Health that she was focusing on pregnancy over style this time around. "You're not supposed to look perfect while you're making babies," the beauty mogul told the mag. "Making babies is the perfection." (Married since June 2012, Barrymore and Kopelman are already parents to daughter Olive, 15 months.) PHOTOS: Drew's love life<br/><br />The working mom, who was also announced Thursday morning as Refinery 29's new editor-at-large, added to the fitness publication, "It's about feeling good in clothes and knowing you can get dressed up for an evening and work it for a minute." Fans can read her first post, "The Breakfast You'll Want Every Morning," here.</div>

Hot Trends: Drew Barrymore Shows Off Baby Bump, Jokes Ellen DeGeneres "Told Me I Was ...

Merry mama! Pregnant-again Drew Barrymore looked radiant and comfortable at the 2014 People's Choice Awards held Wednesday, Jan. 8 in L.A. as she joked about her baby bump.The 38-year-old star, who is currently expecting her second baby -- another girl! -- with husband Will Kopelman, presented the F…

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Hot Trends: Cara Delevingne 'Just Enjoying Herself' With Michelle Rodriguez While ...

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><strong>Cara Delevingne has certainly moved up the ranks of Hollywood very quickly with the Victoria's Secret model spotted with a new famous bestie every other day. This week alone, Cara has been seen enjoying nights out with Rihanna, Michelle Rodriguez and Kellan Lutz, adding to her growing list of BFFs Stateside. But are these friendships genuine and is she still in touch with original "wifey" Rita Ora?</strong><br/><br />The 21-year-old appears to have made it a point to surround herself with some of the most popular celebrities around at the moment with her current favourite appearing to be Bajan beauty Rihanna, whom she spent New Year's Eve with and even joined for a family holiday in the singer's native Barbados over the Christmas period.<br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://static.entertainmentwise.com/photos/Image/0901carad1.jpg" width="100%"/><br/><br />"New friends": Michelle Rodriguez and Cara "enjoying themselves" at a basketball game this week (Anthony J. Causi / Splash News)<br/><br />They clearly weren't bored of each other's company as they were seen watching a basketball game courtside in Brooklyn this week, and an insider has shed some light on why they are spending an increasing amount of time together.<br/><br />"Rihanna is a really good influence on Cara. She's very grounding," the source told E! News. "Cara has found it hard to cope with fame and Rihanna has taken her under her wing. Rihanna knows when Cara needs guidance and that's why Rihanna reaches out to Cara. Rihanna has been a good mentor for her."<br/><br />They added: "Cara is only just getting to grips with what her future is. And Rihanna has been a good friend to her. She knows what it is like to suddenly be famous and for it to be a little intimidating." <img height="300" src="http://static.entertainmentwise.com/photos/Image/0901carad2.jpg" width="100%"/><br/><br />Cara with one of her BFFs Rihanna also at a basketball game (Anthony J. Causi / Splash News)<br/><br />Rihanna hasn't been Cara's only basketball partner though as she was then seen watching another game alongside Fast & Furious star Michelle Rodriguez who looked a little worse for wear. So where has their friendship sprung out from? "They are new friends," the source reveals.<br/><br />"It's just a fun thing. They are just enjoying themselves."<br/><br />The ladies even bumped into Kellan Lutz who was recently linked to Miley Cyrus and it was reportedly the 'Wrecking Ball' star who introduced him to the British model. "They know each other through Miley. She is friends with Miley and so she hangs out with Kellan sometimes through that connection." <img height="300" src="http://static.entertainmentwise.com/photos/Image/0901carad3.jpg" width="100%"/><br/><br />The model with a disguised Harry Styles whom she reportedly dated briefly (Cara Delevingne/Instagram)<br/><br />As for former love interest and One Direction star Harry Styles, Cara is said to be on good terms with the heartthrob despite reports of them dating floating around last year. "They were seeing each other," the knowledgeable source claims.<br/><br />"Not now, they are just really good friends. They speak a lot. There is no awkwardness there. Just good buddies. They were both away so much, it could never have become something serious." <img height="300" src="http://static.entertainmentwise.com/photos/Image/0901carad4.jpg" width="100%"/><br/><br />Cara and her original "wifey" Rita Ora last year (Lia Toby/WENN)<br/><br />After dishing on Cara's frienships with Justin Bieber, Kate Moss and couple Kanye West and Kim Kardashian, the insider sheds some light on the status of her friendship with "wifey" Rita Ora. "They are not in touch at the moment," they allege.<br/><br />"They are not as close anymore. They went down different paths. Rita got a boyfriend and it changed their relationship. It changed the dynamic."<br/><br />Although this may come as somewhat of a shock considering both Cara and Rita denied previous reports that their friendship was on the rocks.</div>

Hot Trends: Cara Delevingne 'Just Enjoying Herself' With Michelle Rodriguez While ...

Cara Delevingne has certainly moved up the ranks of Hollywood very quickly with the Victoria's Secret model spotted with a new famous bestie every other day. This week alone, Cara has been seen enjoying nights out with Rihanna, Michelle Rodriguez and Kellan Lutz, adding to her growing list of BFFs S…

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Hot Trends: WWE announces 24/7 streaming network at CES

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://l1.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/CPdLYLR9IjGlCfpCjzPCSg--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7cT04NTt3PTYzMA--/http://media.zenfs.com/en/blogs/sptusblogs1/44eaeca4-fbfb-4dc6-b467-1ad0fd779e91_vince.jpg" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />WWE chairman and CEO Vince McMahon announcing the new WWE Network.<br/><br />LAS VEGAS - Look out, UFC Fight Pass. The WWE is ready to Rock Bottom the digital network competition.<br/><br />The sports entertainment company was on hand at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas to announce the details of the highly anticipated WWE Network, a 24/7 streaming and video on demand service. Starting Feb. 24, WWE fans will have access to all 12 live pay-per-views (including WrestleMania 30 in April), new original programming and an extensive collection of old WWE, WCW and ECW programming.<br/><br />The best part?<br/><br />The service will only cost $9.99 a month (though WWE is requiring a six-month commitment), the same price as UFC's new digital venture, Fight Pass, which was announced prior to UFC 168 last month.<br/><br /><br/><br />"Take notice ... WWE is in a class by itself," WWE superstar John Cena told Yahoo Sports about how the network could change the digital sports landscape. "We know our fans are the reason why we're here and we always over-deliver and I'm sure they will be happy with everything the WWE Network has and I know for a fact that it will set the standard on how any other entity tries to present itself through a network platform."<br/><br />The WWE Network is partnering with MLB Advanced Media to provide the streaming infrastructure. Content will be made available via WWE.com, the WWE app, iOS and Android devices, Roku, Sony PlayStation (3 and 4) and Xbox 360 (Xbox One starting in the summer). The new original programming will include pre- and post-shows for WWE staples RAW and SmackDown and Legends House, a reality series featuring iconic 80s icons like "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan and "Rowdy" Roddy Piper. Also slated are shows centered around WrestleMania, the WWE/WCW rivalry from the mid-90s and a live daily studio show starting in the summer. Fans in countries like Canada and the United Kingdom will have to wait until the end of 2014 or early 2015 before gaining access.<br/><br />Vince McMahon has come up with a share of brilliant (PPVs, TV syndication) and not so brilliant (XFL) ideas during his time as WWE CEO, but one Hall of Famer thinks the WWE Network might take the cake.<img height="300" src="http://l2.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/AmfLF6OamgnwLPwbPP8h6g--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7cT04NTt3PTE5MA--/http://media.zenfs.com/en_us/News/gettyimages.com/newest-innovations-consumer-technology-display-20140109-044955-943.jpg" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />"I think it's going to be No. 1," Steve Austin said. "There are so many options here. It's so slick. It's like YouTube plus a million. "He's [McMahon] had some great ideas, but this is No. 1."<br/><br />The concept of the WWE Network has been in the works for nearly three years. The original launch date was slated for April 1, 2012, but those plans were quietly put on the back burner as the network struggled to secure deals with cable providers.<br/><br />"I think what we recognize is our fans are willing to pay for quality content, but I think what we are finding though is more and more fans want the flexibility to watch when they want and how they want," said Perkins Miller, WWE's executive vice president of digital media. "They want to watch on any of their devices. They want to watch it live. They want to watch it on demand. So the ability to bundle up our pay-per-views this way and deliver it to all these platforms is really what's driving this decision."<br/><br />Time will tell whether the decision to infiltrate the digital space and move away from the tried-and-true cable pay-per-view model is a good one, but all signs point to the WWE having a championship product on their hands.</div>

Hot Trends: WWE announces 24/7 streaming network at CES

WWE chairman and CEO Vince McMahon announcing the new WWE Network.LAS VEGAS - Look out, UFC Fight Pass. The WWE is ready to Rock Bottom the digital network competition.The sports entertainment company was on hand at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas to announce the details of the highly ant…

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Hot Trends: H5N1: Bird flu questions and answers H5N1 bird flu questions and answers

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><br/><br />An isolated, fatal case of H5N1 or avian influenza has been announced in Alberta. Here are some common questions and answers about the illness: What is H5N1 bird flu?<br/><br />The H5N1 type of influenza is a bird flu virus that can cause outbreaks in poultry.<br/><br />From 2003 until Dec. 20, 2013, the World Health Organization said there have been 648 cases confirmed in humans from 15 countries. Of those, 384 or nearly 60 per cent died. How serious is it to humans?<br/><br />While H5N1 avian flu remains a rare event among people, it is fatal in 60 per cent of cases. Does it spread easily between people?<br/><br />There is no evidence that this virus can spread easily between people. Most cases have been found in people who have spent time around infected birds. Why are health officials watching H5N1 so closely? <img height="300" src="http://i.cbc.ca/1.2489350.1389217441!/cpImage/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/original_300/health-flu-20140108.jpg" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />Health officials are on the watch for flu viruses, including H5N1, that could gain the ability to spread rapidly between people and cause severe disease. What are the symptoms?<br/><br />Symptoms include:<br/><br />Fever and cough. Acute respiratory distress. Shortness of breath/difficulty breathing. Abdominal pain. Diarrhea.<br/><br />In the case of Alberta's H5N1 death announced on Wednesday, health officials said the patient presented with fever, malaise and headache consistent with a subset of the illness. What precautions should travellers take?<br/><br />There is no evidence of the virus spreading between people travelling on airplanes, health officials stressed.<br/><br />The patient died after travelling to Beijing. The Public Health Agency said its usual advice to travellers applies, such as avoiding contact with chickens, ducks, wild birds and surfaces with bird droppings. Poultry and eggs should also be well cooked. What is the treatment?<br/><br />Antiviral drugs may be able to reduce the severity and duration of illness, if taken early enough. How is it diagnosed?<br/><br />The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says H5N1 cannot be diagnosed by symptoms alone. It is usually diagnosed by collecting a swab from the nose or throat in the first few days of illness then testing for signs of the virus. What about seasonal flu?<br/><br />The H5N1 bird flu is not the same as the seasonal flu.<br/><br />The H1N1 strain first identified in 2009 is also the main version of flu circulating this year, according to the Public Health Agency of Canada's FluWatch.<br/><br />This year's flu vaccine protects against the H1N1 strain. <img height="300" src="http://cponline.thecanadianpress.com/graphics/2014/static/cp-h5n1-chart-dec10-2013.jpg" width="100%"/><br/></div>

Hot Trends: H5N1: Bird flu questions and answers H5N1 bird flu questions and answers

An isolated, fatal case of H5N1 or avian influenza has been announced in Alberta. Here are some common questions and answers about the illness: What is H5N1 bird flu?The H5N1 type of influenza is a bird flu virus that can cause outbreaks in poultry.From 2003 until Dec. 20, 2013, the World Health Org…

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Hot Trends: Festival reveals the line-up for this year's event, including the hip hop duo ...

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Music/Pix/pictures/2013/1/3/1357211460811/Outkast-008.jpg" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />Outkast will headline this year's Coachella, joined by Muse and Arcade Fire, who also top the bill at the event in California.<br/><br />In a post on Twitter, the festival revealed the line up for the April event, with the message "Share it like a polaroid picture".<br/><br /><br/><br />Share it like a polaroid picture! OutKast, Muse, Arcade Fire + more #Coachella pic.twitter.com/WXTQQXM36L- Coachella (@coachella) January 9, 2014<br/><br />Including Friday's headline slot from the duo, who make their big return after a six-year hiatus, the bill also sees artists such as Queens of the Stone Age, Pharrell, Beck, Lana Del Rey, Motorhead and the Replacements, as well as newcomers HAIM, Lorde and Disclosure.<br/><br />In November, rumours began that Andre 3000 and Big Boi were in talks for a 2014 tour. In the seven years since Outkast's last album, Idlewild, both of the group's MCs have worked on solo projects. Big Boi has released two critically acclaimed LPs and is producing at least a portion of the next Modest Mouse album. In 2013, Dre and Big Boi finally appeared together on a remix of Frank Ocean's Pink Matter, a track which features André 3000. Their debut album, Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik, was released in April, 1994. Coachella, taking place at Palm Springs, California, is in its 16th year.<br/><br />Reading on mobile? Click here to watch</div>

Hot Trends: Festival reveals the line-up for this year's event, including the hip hop duo ...

Outkast will headline this year's Coachella, joined by Muse and Arcade Fire, who also top the bill at the event in California.In a post on Twitter, the festival revealed the line up for the April event, with the message "Share it like a polaroid picture".Share it like a polaroid picture! OutKast, Mu…

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Hot Trends: Barrymore turns fashion editor

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://cdn1.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/business/news/article29901113.ece/ALTERNATES/w300square/FIN_20140109_BUS_036_30230750_I2.JPG" width="100%"/><br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://cdn2.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/incoming/article29899255.ece/ALTERNATES/w300square/stargazing.jpg" width="100%"/><br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://cdn1.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/entertainment/film-tv/news/article29902005.ece/ALTERNATES/w300square/PANews+BT_20c5ed71-ca17-4b0f-897e-9ce19bec0e0d_I1.jpg" width="100%"/><br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://cdn4.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/life/fashion-beauty/article29902046.ece/ALTERNATES/w300square/cover_media_cmg872f8bf3-88e7-4fd4-8d2e-c0c94de0935e_0" width="100%"/><br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://cdn4.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/incoming/article29215954.ece/ALTERNATES/w300square/400+city+hall+statue.jpg" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://cdn4.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/life/fashion-beauty/article29902050.ece/ALTERNATES/h342/cover_media_cmgf1c95dc1-2f9a-4f74-b64e-4df1b35755a7_0" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />/> Drew Barrymore Drew Barrymore will contribute blog posts to website Refinery29 as their new celebrity editor-at-large.<br/><br />The 38-year-old actress is set to work for the fashion-based website and will contribute at least one blog post a month.<br/><br />Her first entry, titled The Drew Barrymore Breakfast Sandwich You'll Want Every Morning, is set to go live today. It will cover the actress' love of cooking and she will reveal one of her favourite recipes.<br/><br />Drew is thrilled to have been approached by Refinery29 and feels she can relate to their outlook.<br/><br />"When Refinery asked me to come on board, I thought, 'How fun,'" she smiled to WWD. "I respect their taste. I trust them. I like 'where to' and 'how to lists' best and just the fun lifestyle direction and they completely have that."<br/><br />She has promised "succinct" and "meaningful" posts for readers to enjoy. She has taken inspiration from her own personal life, such as raising her daughter Olive, when writing the blogs.<br/><br />"I also wanted to write some fun op-ed pieces," she added, keeping the exact subjects of the posts quiet.<br/><br />One thing she did reveal is that her pieces won't be glamourised. The brunette beauty insists her tips will be down to earth and reflect her personality.<br/><br />"I'm so un-fabulous and not whimsical. I make one-pot meals," she laughed. "I don't remember the last time I threw a dinner party and I certainly didn't cook for it when I did."<br/><br />The blog's editor-in-chief, Christene Barberich, says it is Drew's honesty which makes her the perfect contributor to the website.<br/><br />"Drew possesses so many genuine qualities that connect to us and our audience: She's smart, funny, confident, stylish, a natural-born entrepreneur with an artist's spirit. The list goes on," Christene gushed.<br/><br />She also added that Drew "exemplifies" the Refinery29 woman, describing that person as an "ambitious, curious, infinitely cool woman living a creative life right now."<br/><br />© Cover Media</div>

Hot Trends: Barrymore turns fashion editor

/> Drew Barrymore Drew Barrymore will contribute blog posts to website Refinery29 as their new celebrity editor-at-large.The 38-year-old actress is set to work for the fashion-based website and will contribute at least one blog post a month.Her first entry, titled The Drew Barrymore Breakfast Sandwi…

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Hot Trends: Michelle Rodriguez goes on CRAZY rampage after cuddling Cara Delevingne at ...

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><br/><br />The Fast and the Furious actress appeared to be high-kicking the cameras<br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://i4.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article3000037.ece/ALTERNATES/s1023/Michelle-Rodriguez-and-Cara-Delevingne-attend-the-Detroit-Pistons-vs-New-York-Knicks-game-at-Madison-Square-Garden-3000037.jpg" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />View gallery<br/><br />Fast and the Furious actress Michelle Rodriguez went on a crazy rampage on Tuesday night, after spending the evening with Cara Delevingne at the Knicks vs Detroit Pistons NBA game in New York.<br/><br />The 35-year-old, who spent the evening draped over Brit model Cara , appeared to be trying to high-kick the paps waiting for her as she left the Madison Square Garden.<br/><br />The feisty star, who was dressed in tan leather pants, a skull-print tee and a baseball cap ran toward the cameras as she left the sports stadium while Cara walked on behind her.<br/><br />It's not clear whether the brunette beauty was larking around of whether she was seriously peeved.<br/><br />But after spending the whole evening with fun-loving Cara, we can't imagine there was much to get mad about.<br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://i2.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article3001275.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/%C2%A3%C2%A3%C2%A3Michelle-Rodriguez-and-Cara-Delevingne-3001275.jpg" width="100%"/><br/><br />Watch out!<br/><br />Despite having some of the best seats in the house, the Fast and Furious star and queen of eyebrows were falling asleep, blowing smoke rings (from electric cigarettes), yawning, lounging over each other and doing everything apart from watching the actual game earlier in the evening.<br/><br />In one snap you can see the Fast and Furious star plant a playful smooch on the Brit model as the pair packed on a friendly courtside PDA.<br/><br />And when Cara, who was wrapped up in a leather jacket, leather trousers and a pair of Doc Martens, wasn't puckering up to Michelle, she was cosying up to Kellan Lutz.<br/><br />Alongside a picture of her licking (yes) the hunky actor, the supermodel wrote: "Get out the licks for the Knicks @kellanlutz."<br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://i2.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article3001266.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/%C2%A3%C2%A3%C2%A3Michelle-Rodriguez-and-Cara-Delevingne-3001266.jpg" width="100%"/><br/><br />Where did you learn to do that?<br/><br />Meanwhile, quirky model Cara was so impressed by her smoke rings, she even took a picture of them, which she later posted to Instagram under the caption: "Making some hoops #theknicksgame."<br/><br />The unlikely pals outing to see the Detroit Pistons play the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden came just a day after Rihanna treated Cara to her very first basketball match.<br/><br />RiRi and Cara D have been spending an awful lot of time together recently what with their Christmas holidays to Barbados coinciding and then Cara D being the guest of honour at raunchy RiRi's amazing NYE party.<br/><br />But that didn't stop pop beauty Rihanna inviting Cara long on a sporting date.<br/><br />The celebrity BFFs went to watch a basketball game in New York City when the supermodel started pulling her trademark weird expressions. Previous Articles<br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://i3.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article2997084.ece/ALTERNATES/s148/Rihanna-and-Cara-Delevingne-2997084.jpg" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />Cara D even proved her supermodel credentials by pulling a quick court-side costume change to help the Brooklyn Nets to victory See more stories you'll love<br/><br />You've turned off story recommendations. Turn them on and we'll update the list below with stories we think you'll love ( how we do this). Recommended in 3am Why? Most Read in 3am<br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://i3.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article2530653.ece/ALTERNATES/s308/Katie-Price-MAIN-2530653.jpg" width="100%"/><br/><br />See more stories you'll love<br/><br />You've turned off story recommendations. Turn them on and we'll update the list below with stories we think you'll love ( how we do this). Recommended on the Mirror Why?<br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://omniture.mirror.co.uk/b/ss/tmrmirrorprod,tmrgroupaggregateprod/1/H.24.4--NS/0?%5BAQB%5D&cdp=3&%5BAQE%5D" width="100%"/><br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://stats.mirror.co.uk/?rt=1&ctxId=92&pubId=2&cat=&meta=read-news&objId=3001407&type=article&title=Michelle+Rodriguez+goes+on+CRAZY+rampage+after+cuddling+Cara+Delevingne+at+Knicks+game&url=http%3a%2f%2fwww.mirror.co.uk%2f3am%2fcelebrity-news%2fmichelle-rodriguez-goes-crazy-after-3001407" width="100%"/><br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://stats.mirror.co.uk/?rt=1&ctxId=92&pubId=2&cat=People&meta=&objId=-59259495&type=tag&title=Cara+Delevingne&url=tag%3admdev%40mgn.co.uk%2c2011%3aCara%2520Delevingne" width="100%"/><br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://stats.mirror.co.uk/?rt=1&ctxId=92&pubId=2&cat=People&meta=&objId=-360518215&type=tag&title=Michelle+Rodriguez&url=tag%3admdev%40mgn.co.uk%2c2011%3aMichelle%2520Rodriguez" width="100%"/><br/><br /><img height="300" src="http://stats.mirror.co.uk/?rt=1&ctxId=11302&pubId=2&cat=&meta=read-profile&objId=2264492&type=article&title=Zoe+Shenton&url=http%3a%2f%2fwww.mirror.co.uk%2fauthors%2fzoe-shenton%2f" width="100%"/><br/></div>

Hot Trends: Michelle Rodriguez goes on CRAZY rampage after cuddling Cara Delevingne at ...

The Fast and the Furious actress appeared to be high-kicking the camerasView galleryFast and the Furious actress Michelle Rodriguez went on a crazy rampage on Tuesday night, after spending the evening with Cara Delevingne at the Knicks vs Detroit Pistons NBA game in New York.The 35-year-old, who spe…

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