Salman Rushdie's new book is his first fiction since a brutal attack. He tells us why
NEW YORK (AP) — Salman Rushdie's new book, “The Eleventh Hour,” marks a creative reset for the author. It's his first fiction work since being attacked on a New York stage in 2022. The book includes two short stories and three novellas, exploring themes of age, mortality, and memory. Rushdie's recovery has been both physical and creative, with fiction being the last step. He describes the process as a door opening in his mind. Despite the attack, Rushdie has reemerged in public life. Speaking to the AP, he also reflects on the enduring impact of his work.
Movie Review: Elle Fanning's disjointed android steals the show in 'Predator: Badlands'
Elle Fanning delivers a unique performance in "Predator: Badlands," playing an android whose torso and legs have separate adventures. Associated Press critic Mark Kennedy says this ninth installment of the “Predator” franchise mixes slapstick humor with intense violence. Fanning's character, Thia, teams up with a young Predator named Dek, played by Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi. Together, they navigate a dangerous planet filled with bizarre creatures. Director Dan Trachtenberg combines sci-fi action with themes of family betrayal and unlikely friendships. "Predator: Badlands" is rated PG-13 and releases Friday, offering a mix of humor and action in a 107-minute runtime.
Jonathan Bailey named People magazine’s 2025 Sexiest Man Alive
“Wicked” star Jonathan Bailey is People magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive for 2025. The magazine announced its pick Monday night on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.” Bailey takes the mantle from “The Office” star John Krasinski, who was the 2024 selection. The 37-year-old had audiences swooning as Prince Fiyero in his 2024 big-screen debut in “Wicked,” the popular movie musical in which he proudly urges fellow students to join him in his shallowness. He dripped with charm as Lord Anthony Bridgerton on Netflix’s “Bridgerton” most recently starred in “Jurassic World Rebirth.”
Adam Sandler will receive AARP's Movies for Grownups career achievement award, his second AARP prize
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Adam Sandler will be the next recipient of AARP’s Movies for Grownups career achievement award. The group cited his ability to move masterfully from classic comedy roles to serious drama. This summer the actor, 59, reprised “Happy Gilmore” on Netflix, and in November will appear alongside George Clooney in Noah Baumbach’s “Jay Kelly.” AARP previously awarded Sandler with its best actor prize for “Uncut Gems.” It called Sandler “one of Hollywood’s most enduring and ever-evolving stars.” He'll receive his award Jan. 10 in Beverly Hills, with Alan Cumming hosting. The ceremony will be broadcast in February on PBS.
Music Review: Mavis Staples emerges with peaceful, even-keeled album, 'Sad and Beautiful World'
Mavis Staples's new album hums with a hope that could only be delivered by the 86-year-old’s raspy contralto. It is titled “Sad and Beautiful World.” The album sees the gospel and R&B icon return from a brief flirtation with retirement for a peaceful, even-keeled sound. It features nine covers and an original composition. Staples invites world-weary listeners to join her steady march forward across 10 tracks propelled by bouncy horns and tranquil, finger-picked guitars, writes The Associated Press' James Pollard in his review. He says that for a world stricken by injustice, uncertainty and loneliness, Staples delivers a soundtrack that meets the moment.
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Fashion trailblazers A$AP Rocky and Rihanna now have matching CFDA fashion icon awards
NEW YORK (AP) — Celebrities and fashion heavyweights gathered at the American Museum of Natural History for the Council of Fashion Designers of America annual ceremony on Monday. From supermodels Naomi Campbell and Amber Valletta to designers Donatella Versace and Ralph Lauren, the starry guests wore their most fashionable outfits to celebrate and honor the fashion community. After more than 50 years in the fashion industry, Ralph Lauren won big again, taking home the womenswear designer of the year award for the second time. Other winners of the night included Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, who won American accessory designer of the year for their luxury brand The Row, and Thom Browne, who took home the award for American menswear designer of the year.
Bend a knee like Beckham: Soccer star is knighted by King Charles III
LONDON (AP) — David Beckham has been knighted by King Charles III at Windsor Castle. The soccer legend is now Sir David Beckham. He calls it his proudest moment. Beckham was honored Tuesday for his contributions to sport and charity, including his work with UNICEF and efforts to eradicate malaria. His career highlights include scoring in three World Cups and playing a key role in Manchester United's 1999 treble-winning season. Beckham's knighthood marks a high point in his journey to rehabilitate his image after past controversies. The honor was announced in June as part of the king's birthday honors list.
Bruce Springsteen performs at New York Public Library gala
NEW YORK (AP) — Bruce Springsteen surprised guests at the New York Public Library's annual “Library Lions” gala. On Monday night, he was among six honorees recognized for outstanding achievements in arts and culture. Others honored included Shonda Rhimes and authors James Patterson and Louise Erdrich. The ceremony was brief, with no acceptance speeches. But NYPL President Anthony Marx promised a “special treat,” and Springsteen returned with a guitar for a soulful performance of “Thunder Road.” Known for surprise performances, Springsteen recently appeared at the New York Film Festival to sing after a biopic screening.
Diane Ladd, 3-time Oscar nominee, dies at 89
OJAI, Calif. (AP) — Diane Ladd, the three-time Academy Award nominee known for roles in “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore” and “Wild at Heart,” has died at 89. Her daughter, Laura Dern, announced Ladd’s death on Monday, saying she passed away at her home in Ojai, California, with Dern by her side. Dern described her mother as an “amazing hero” and “profound gift.” Ladd had a long career in television and stage before her film breakthrough in Martin Scorsese’s 1974 release. She earned an Oscar nomination for her role as Flo and appeared in dozens of movies over the decades.
Movie Review: In ‘Sentimental Value,’ an achingly lovely portrait of artists and family
Stellan Skarsgård and Renate Reinsve play an estranged father and daughter in Joachim Trier's “Sentimental Value.” The Cannes Grand Prix winner is about family, the arts and filmmaking, as Skarsgård's character attempts to mine his own family history to connect with his daughter and make a career comeback. In her review for The Associated Press, film writer Lindsey Bahr writes that “Trier and his longtime cowriter Eskil Vogt have deftly crafted a deeply humane and relatable story that feels whole and satisfying and cinematic without resorting to trite and tidy resolutions and redemptions.” Rated R, “Sentimental Value” is in theaters Friday.
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