A John Candy documentary gives Toronto film fest a tender and appropriately Canadian opening night
TORONTO (AP) — The documentary “John Candy: I Like Me,” directed by Colin Hanks and produced by Ryan Reynolds, is a tribute not just to Candy the actor, but Candy, the man. On Thursday night, it premieres as the opening night film of the Toronto International Film Festival. For a beloved Canadian icon like Candy, whose nickname was “Johnny Toronto,” the setting could hardly be more fitting. To reference Candy’s cameo in “The Blues Brothers,” it’s an occasion that calls for orange whips, all around. The movie is a kind of cinematic eulogy for Candy, who died of heart failure at the age of 43 in 1994. But Candy might be even more popular three decades after his death.
‘The Paper’ blends the absurdity of 'The Office' and the optimism of 'Parks and Recreation'
"The Paper," a new spinoff from "The Office," is now streaming on Peacock. It follows the Toledo Truth Teller, a local newspaper often overlooked by its community. The show introduces Ned Sampson, played by Domhnall Gleeson, as the idealistic new editor-in-chief. He aims to revive the paper's glory without hiring new reporters. Oscar Martinez, from "The Office," returns as an accountant at Enervate, the company that owns the Truth Teller. Unlike "The Office," the Truth Teller staff enjoys their work, creating a different vibe. The show avoids copying "The Office" style, focusing on intentional moments.
Giorgio Armani, who dressed the powerful and famous from boardroom to Hollywood, dies at 91
MILAN (AP) — The iconic Italian designer Giorgio Armani has died at 91. Armani revolutionized Italian ready-to-wear fashion in the late 1970s with his relaxed silhouette. From the executive office to the Hollywood screen, Armani dressed the rich and famous in classic tailored styles, fashioned in supersoft fabrics and muted tones. His handsome black tie outfits and glittering evening gowns often stole the show on award season red carpets. Today, the Armani empire has an army of more than 9,000 employees. His empire, worth over $10 billion, included clothing, accessories and more.
Justin Bieber announces 'Swag ll' will arrive Friday
NEW YORK (AP) — Justin Bieber is preparing to surprise fans once more. The singer announced on Instagram Thursday morning that a release titled “Swag II” will arrive at midnight. It follows his seventh studio album “Swag," which dropped in July hours after he teased it on billboards and social media posts. The popstar posted the “Swag II” artwork on Instagram. It is a pale pink with the text “Swag II” featured in the center. He also shared an image of himself, his wife model Hailey Bieber and their infant son, Jack Blues Bieber. “Swag II Tonight Midnight,” he wrote in the caption.
From slaughterhouse worker to literary giant: George Saunders wins National Book Award
NEW YORK (AP) — George Saunders has been named this year's winner of the National Book Award for Distinguished Contributions to American Letters. The National Book Foundation announced the honor on Friday. Saunders, known for his bestselling short story collection “Tenth of December,” is celebrated for his unique blend of humor, poignant narratives and social commentary. At 66, he is the youngest recipient since 2004. His work often combines dark humor with a deep faith in humanity. Saunders' first novel, “Lincoln in the Bardo,” won the Booker Prize in 2017. His next novel, “Vigil,” is set for release early next year.
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Movie Review: In audacious dark comedy ‘Twinless,’ grief and loneliness lead down disturbing paths
Filmmaker James Sweeney started with a fascination: twins. He never had one, but wanted one. The result is his second feature, “Twinless,” starring Sweeney himself and a terrific Dylan O'Brien, who plays two very different twins. Associated Press critic Jocelyn Noveck writes in her review that “Twinless” is an audacious meditation on the nature of twindom but also on the subjectivity of grief and the scourge of loneliness. The film begins as a poignant bromance, an unlikely duo sharing experiences of loss. But 20 minutes in, everything starts to look very different. Opens Friday in theaters.
Fox News thrives two years after court settlement, but 2020 election coverage fight goes on
NEW YORK (AP) — Fox News seemed to be dealt a crippling blow in a $787 million settlement of a libel lawsuit more than two years ago, but has instead thrived. Fox's ratings are at a high when most television networks are sliding, including news rivals CNN and MSNBC, and Fox is the go-to source to distribute news for the new Trump administration. Yet court cases regarding coverage of the 2020 election aftermath involving outlets where Trump supporters gather are continuing. In its own recent settlement of a libel case, the conservative Newsmax network has learned that expressing regrets or apologizing doesn't pay.
Lawsuit that claimed Fox Sports ex-host harassed hairstylist has been mostly resolved
LOS ANGELES (AP) — A woman who worked as a hairstylist for Fox Sports has resolved most of a lawsuit that alleged former host Skip Bayless made unwanted advances toward her. Noushin Faraji is still seeking class-action status over allegations of unpaid wages. Fox Sports said in a statement: “We are pleased that this matter has been resolved. There will be no further comment.” A judge in Los Angeles Superior Court granted Faraji’s request to dismiss several of the allegations. The judge's order said the claims were resolved. It does not include details. Bayless worked for Fox Sports until 2024, when his show was canceled.
Q&A: How the band Big Thief transformed into a trio and reimagined their sound
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Adrianne Lenker, lead vocalist of Big Thief, describes her home as "the forests," reflecting her nomadic lifestyle. The band, now a trio, has released their album "Double Infinity," featuring nine tracks from over a hundred songs. Lenker's warm vocals and pithy aphorisms ground the album's experimental sound. The band has embraced collaboration, inviting friends and admired musicians to contribute. The song "Incomprehensible" explores themes of aging and self-acceptance. Lenker and guitarist Buck Meek, once married, now share a deep friendship, reflecting the band's resilience and evolution.
Julia Roberts, Anna Wintour, Ralph Lauren and more pay tribute to Giorgio Armani
Celebrities have begun paying tribute to Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani. His death was announced on Thursday. He was 91. Those paying tribute include Donatella Versace and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Ferrari F1 driver and Armani ambassador Charles Leclerc also posted on Instagram, as did Julia Roberts and Victoria Beckham. Russell Crowe, Samuel L. Jackson, Anna Wintour and Valentino also weighed in. Armani's work spanned the worlds of celebrity, fashion and power. Morgan Freeman and Ralph Lauren, a fellow renowned fashion designer, also praised Armani an dhis work.
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