Fall Film Guide
NFL Kickoff
1992Gear
SEPTEMBER 2014
KNOTT'S SCARY FARM New Thrills and Chills
TV PREVIEW Tune into Our Season Premiere Picks
Rebecca "Demolicious" Ninburg On the Fast Track with L.A. Derby Dolls Co-Founder
CONTENTS
8
FILM
8 FALL FILM GUIDE 12 FILM REVIEW 14 FALL TV PREVIEW
MUSIC
16 Q&A WITH ALEX GONZÁLEZ OF MANÁ AND DE LA TIERRA
SPORTS
18 L.A. DERBY DOLLS COVER FEATURE 22 NFL PREVIEW
EDITORIAL
6 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR 36 STAFF PICKS
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L.A. DERBY DOLLS
CULTURE 24 30 32 33 34
FASHION: ROLLER DIVA KNOTT’S SCARY FARM 2014 FOOD: CAFE DEL REY FASHION: 1992GEAR PHOTO: CHRIS BOWMAN OF YER CHEAT’N HEART TATTOO
Cover Photo: Rafael Orellana Makeup: Marina Mestaz and Priscilla De Guzman Hair: Marina Mestaz and Cindy Sattanni 4 |
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SEPTEMBER•2014
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Letter
FROM THE
Editor SEPTEMBER 2014 — VOLUME 1 — ISSUE 4 Editor-in-Chief Yuri Shimoda editor@lol-la.com
Creative Director/Art Director Oliver Nowlin oliver@lol-la.com Top row: Erikka “Purrfect” Valdez, Ane “Gori Spelling” Jens, Ashley “Whip N’ Ash” Hobbs Bottom row: Num “Nhung Chux” Mond, Yuri Shimoda (Rafael Orellana/Living Out Loud LA)
Turn! Turn! Turn!
Although our leaves don’t change color as dramatically as they do in other parts of the country, autumn is still a time of excitement here in Los Angeles. It’s the season for new beginnings as school is back in session, refreshing the wardrobe with some light sweaters for cool mornings and evenings and perhaps cleansing the system for the massive amounts of food to be had during Thanksgiving and the holiday season to come. Fall also brings a TV lineup full of new shows and beloved characters, which is why our television columnist, Mark Mikhail, took it upon himself to narrow down the field to eight must-watch programs you need to set your DVR for immediately. Although music is my first love I’m also a huge movie buff, and now is the time when studios start releasing their Academy Award hopefuls. From insightful indies and WWII epics to sci-fi spectaculars and Rebecca “Demolicious” Ninburg fantasy adventures, I go over the season’s brightest (Rafael Orellana/Living Out Loud LA) in our Fall Film Preview. September means football for many sports fans, and we’ve got you covered with our 2014 NFL Guide. Since we don’t have a professional team and not everyone wants to spend their hardearned cash to see collegiate athletes go at it at the Coliseum and Rose Bowl or lounge on the couch and watch football on TV, many Angelenos relish being part of the action at an L.A. Derby Doll game. Founded almost 11 years ago by Rebecca “Demolicious” Ninburg and Wendy “Thora Zeen” Templeton, the Derby Dolls are SoCal’s premiere all-female, banked track roller derby league and were the perfect cover girls for this month’s issue. Their story fully embodies the DIY ethos that shines in so many Angelenos, they are an entirely volunteer-run organization and, even though they are completely brutal to one another’s bodies on the track, they have created a unique, nurturing community that immediately welcomes you in, even if you don’t have on a pair of roller skates. The classy determination exhibited by my fellow Orange County girl Demolicious and all of the Dolls, both on and off the track, remind me that to everything there is a season – and a reason – for Living Out Loud. Yuri Shimoda editor@lol-la.com
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Photo Technicians Rafael Orellana, Jose Garibay
Staff Reporters Ramon Aviles, Dougal Brownlie, Brenda Camberos, Humberto Capiro, Erica Carter, Dillon Cooper, Dash Finley, Chris Gabourel, Anne Hartley, Elisa Hernandez, Sabina Ibarra, Jocelyn James, Nichole Jones, Ariel Kashanchi, Pablo Lopez, Laramie Martinez, Patrick Meissner, Mark Mikhail, Edison Milan, Daizy Neri, Ariel Paredes, Gabriel Preciado, Francisco Reyes, Aiden Simko, Evan Solano, David Tobin, Taylor Wong, Lupita Woo, Paul Zahn Staff Photographers Ramon Aviles, Dougal Brownlie, Andrew Carrillo, Jose Garibay, Jocelyn James, Pablo Lopez, Oliver Nowlin, Rafael Orellana, Gabriel Preciado, Ruben Rojas, David Tobin, Taylor Wong Advertising Inquiries info@lol-la.com
Publisher Marvin Vasquez marvin@lol-la.com Translator Edison Millan
LIVING OUT LOUD 5252 Cartwright Ave., Suite 3 North Hollywood, CA 91601 lol-la.com © Copyright 2014 Living Out Loud LA. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.
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SEPTEMBER•2014
With Oscar in Their Eyes
FILM
Fall Film Preview
L
By Yuri Shimoda
abor Day has barely passed, but with fall festivals on the horizon it’s already time for cinemas to bid adieu to summer blockbusters and usher in “more serious” fare. While Richard Linklater's Boyhood and Wes Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel having generated Academy Award buzz already this year, autumn is this season when studios begin to bring out their hopefuls before really hitting us with their top contenders in winter. Here are some of the films that stand out from the pack.
Sept. Sept. 55
Crudup) when he’s evicted and disinherited. In return Conrad ends up sleeping with Dylan’s girlfriend (Olivia Wilde). Also in theaters: Frontera; The Identical; Innocence
Sept. Sept. 12 12
The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby – Aside from immediately getting the Beatles’ “Eleanor Rigby” stuck in my head, Ned Benson’s cinematic debut tells both sides of the love story between the titular Eleanor (Jessica Chastain) and Conor (James McAvoy). Both leads are fantastic in every role they assume, which makes this a must-see. Viola Davis, Bill Hader and William Hurt also star. The Drop – Earlier this year, Tom Hardy gave an incredible performance in Locke, which he acted in completely solo. Hardy actually gets to play off other actors in Michaël Roskam’s adaptation of a Dennis Lehane short story. Those other thespians include Noomi Rapace and James Gandolfini in the final role before his death. Also in theaters: Atlas Shrugged Part III; Dolphin Tale 2; Finding Fanny; My Old Lady (out Sept. 10); No Good Deed; Search Party; The Skelton Twins; This Is Where I Leave You
Sept. 19 Sept. 19
Tracks – Not to be confused with Wild (see Dec. 5), which also details a woman’s land trek, John Curran’s Tracks details Robyn Davidson’s nine-month journey across the Australian desert. Mia Wasikowska is Davidson, while “Girls”’ Adam Driver plays the National Geographic photographer who documented the trip, Rick Smolan. The Zero Theorem – Christoph Waltz stars in Terry Gilliam’s first feature since the incredibly bizarre (even for Gilliam) The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus (2009). Qohen Leth (Waltz) is a reclusive computer hacker trying to create a formula to find the meaning of life. The film also features Tilda Swinton, Rupert Friend, David Thewlis and Matt Damon. Also in theaters: The Guest (Sept. 17); Hector and the Search for Happiness; The Maze Runner; Pride; Tusk; A Walk Among the James McAvoy and Jessica Chastain in The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby Tombstones; Wheels
The Longest Week – This feature-length debut from New York writer-director Peter Glanz centers around the overprivileged and aimless Conrad Valmont (Jason Batemen), who moves in with his best friend Dylan (Billy
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(Sarah Shatz/The Weinstein Company)
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Sept. Sept. 26 26
Jimi: All Is By My Side – John Ridley, who won the Oscar for adapting 12 Years a Slave, directs André Benjamin (aka André 3000 of OutKast) as Jimi Hendrix on the cusp of fame. The Two Faces of January – Hossein Amini, who adapted James Sallis' Drive, makes his directorial debut with this take on the Patricia Highsmith novel. The psychological thriller stars Viggo Mortensen and Kirsten Dunst as an American couple who encounter a con man (Oscar Isaac) while visiting Greece. The three become entangled in a web of crime, intrigue and murder. Also in theaters: The Boxtrolls; The Equalizer; Good People; Laggies
Oct. 33 Oct. Gone Girl – Last time my sister came to visit I started reading her copy of Gillian Flynn’s bestselling suspense novel, but then she took it with her when she went home and I never found out what the heck happened Amy Dunne! She better remember to bring it next time she comes over because I’ve never missed seeing a David Fincher film in the theaters. Ben Affleck, Rosamund Pike and Neil Patrick Harris star. Men, Women & Children – The latest from Jason Reitman deals with – you guessed it – men, women and children. Based on Chad Kultgen’s novel about the sexual pressures of junior-high students and their parents in this age of total immersion in the internet and online social media. The cast includes Adam Sandler, Jennifer Garner, Ansel Elgort and Judy Greer. It is going to be interesting to see which spouse, Affleck (see above) or Garner, comes out on top of the box office this weekend. Also in theaters: Annabelle; The Good Lie; The Hero of Color City; Left Behind
Oct. 10 10 Oct. The Judge – When hotshot defense lawyer Hank Palmer (Robert Downey Jr.) returns home, he’s faced with the most difficult challenge of his life. Not only does he have to represent his estranged, judge father (Robert Duvall) in a murder trial, he has to mend their relationship as well. The strong cast also includes Vera Farmiga, Vincent D'Onofrio and Billy Bob Thornton. Also in theaters: Addicted; Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day; Automata; Catch Hell; Kill the Messenger; One Chance; Whiplash
Oct. 17 17 Oct. Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) – SEPTEMBER•2014
Michael Keaton and Edward Norton in Birdman (Fox Searchlight)
Michael Keaton is simply breathtaking as he takes a jab at his Batman legacy in Alejandro González Iñárritu’s dark comedy about a struggling actor in the throes of mounting a Broadway play. Equally great in their roles are Edward Norton, Zach Galifianakis, Andrea Riseborough, Emma Stone and Naomi Watts. Fury – I’m not the biggest fan of war movies, but the action sequences and daring realism of David Ayer’s (End of Watch) WWII drama seem to promise something of a different ilk. Brad Pitt leads a cast that’s rounded out by Michael Peña, Scott Eastwood, Logan Lerman and Shia LaBeouf. Young Ones – Sometimes I wonder if Michael Shannon can do wrong, he’s just so good in every role he assumes. Elle Fanning and Nicholas Hoult also star in this sci-fi western from Jake Paltrow. Also in theaters: The Best of Me; Camp X-Ray; Dear White People; Dracula Untold; Listen Up Philip; Rudderless; The Tale of the Princess Kaguya
Oct. 24 Oct. 24
St. Vincent – Let us all bow down to the comedic genius that is Bill Murray. Melissa McCarthy, Naomi Watts and Chris O’Dowd also star in Theodore Melfi’s tale of a young boy who finds an unlikely mentor in Murray’s St. Vincent Van Nuys. Also in theaters: Ouija; Reach Me
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FILM Steve Carell and Channing Tatum in Foxcatcher (Scott Garfield/Sony Pictures Classics)
career-changing turns in Dallas Buyers Club and “True Detective” also stars Anne Hathaway, Casey Affleck, Michael Caine and Jessica Chastain. Rosewater – The most-anticipated directorial debut of the season as far as I’m concerned is Jon Stewart’s take on Maziar Bahari’s 2011 memoir, Then They Came for Me, which details the journalist’s brutal 118-day imprisonment by the Iranian government as he was covering the country's election protests in 2009. It’s clear from the trailer that not only does Gael García Bernal deliver a captivating portrayal of Bahari, but Stewart’s hiatus from “The Daily Show” last summer definitely paid off in spades. The Theory of Everything – Eddie Redmayne and Felicity Jones star in the story of how physicist Stephen Hawking and Jane Wilde fell in love right before he was diagnosed with ALS and as his career began to take off. Also in theaters: Big Hero 6; Jessabelle; Open Windows
Nov. 14 Nov. 14
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Oct. Oct. 31 31
Dumb and Dumber To – When I heard about this sequel, I wondered, “Why? It’s been 20 years.” Then I watched the original again recently and changed my tune to “Why has it been 20 years?!” Lloyd (Jim Carrey) and Harry (Jeff Daniels) embark on another adventure – again written and directed by the Farrelly brothers – but this time it’s to find one of their longlost children. Foxcatcher – Bennett Miller (Moneyball, Capote) took home the Best Director Award from Cannes for this dark yet true tale. Channing Tatum stars as Olympic wrestler Mark Schultz whose brother, Dave Schultz (Mark Ruffalo) – also an Olympic champion – was killed by the team’s paranoid schizophrenic sponsor, John du Pont (Steve Carell). Also in theaters: Beyond the Lights; Miss Meadows
Nightcrawler – Lou Bloom (Jake Gyllenhaal) is searching for where he fits in Los Angeles when he stumbles into the dangerous excitement of freelance crime journalism. The directorial debut of screenwriter Dan Gilroy (The Bourne Legacy, The Fall), Nightcrawler also stars Bill Paxton, Rene Russo and Riz Ahmed. Horns – Daniel Radcliffe like we’ve never seen him before – delightfully devilish, with horns literally growing from his head – in Alexandre Aja’s adaptation of Joe Hill’s cult-favorite novel of the same name. Nov. 21 21 Also in theaters: Before I Go to Sleep; The Book of Nov. Life The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 1 – It always seems like The Hunger Games’ leading trio of JenNov. Nov. 7 7 nifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson and Liam Interstellar – The brilliant Christopher Nolan takes Hemsworth have so much fun together on the films’ on science fiction in this tale of a team of explorers press tours, which is such a striking difference to how venturing into a wormhole to surpass all previous somber their characters’ lives are on screen. Those limitations on space travel and to ultimately save hu- who haven't read the book finally get to find out what manity. This followup to Matthew McConaughey’s happened to Katniss and Peeta after breaking out of
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SEPTEMBER•2014
the dome in Catching Fire. This time, Julianne Moore is added into the mix. The Imitation Game – Benedict Cumberbatch as Alan Turing cracking the Enigma code during World War II, a score composed by Alexandre Desplat and co-starring Keira Knightley and Matthew Goode – I’m in. Also in theaters: McFarland
Wilson, Benicio Del Toro and Jena Malone also star. Also in theaters: Demonic
Dec. Dec. 17 17
The Hobbit: The Battle of The Five Armies – As a total Tolkien geek, I love The Lord of the Rings film trilogy so much that, although I’ve seen them all well over 20 times each, any time I come across one of them playing on TV I have to sit and watch the entire Nov.26 26 Nov. thing. While many were disappointed with the first In theaters: Horrible Bosses 2; The Penguins of two adaptations of The Hobbit, I am quite fond of them, and Martin Freeman’s portrayal of Bilbo has a Madagascar lot to do with that fondness. I can’t wait to see Peter Dec. 5 Dec. 5 Jackson’s final installment of this series. Wild – Jean-Marc Vallée (Dallas Buyers Club, The Dec. 19 Dec. 19 Young Victoria) directs this Nick Hornby adaptation of Cheryl Strayed’s memoir detailing her solo, 1,100- Mr. Turner – Timothy Spall is such a great character mile hike from the Mojave Desert are of California actor (Peter Pettigrew in Harry Potter, Winston through Oregon to the border of Washington State. Churchill in The King’s Speech, Beadle Bamford in Reese Witherspoon portrays Strayed as her experi- Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street), ences from this journey of self-discovery arrive on and his winning the Best Actor award at Cannes the big screen. speaks for yet another dazzling performance. This time, in the lead role of the brilliant and eccentric Also in theaters: The Pyramid British Romantic landscape painter J.M.W. Turner in Dec. 12 12 Dec. writer-director Mike Leigh’s latest. Exodus: Gods and Kings – The decision to cast white Also in theaters: Annie; Night at the Museum: Secret actors in the lead roles (Christian Bale as Moses, of the Tomb Sigourney Weaver as Tuya, Joel Edgerton as Rhamses) has led to a very public outcry against this film, but man, it’s impossible to deny Ridley Scott’s ability to create visually engaging epics. Inherent Vice – This opening weekend, however, my money is going towards a ticket to see the latest from Paul Thomas Anderson. An adaptation of Thomas Pynchon’s 2009 novel of the same name, the film stars Joaquin Phoenix as detective Larry “Doc” Sportello who is investigating the disappearance of his ex’s current boyfriend in 1970s Los Angeles. Josh Brolin, Martin Freeman in The Hobbit: The Battle of The Five Armies (Warner Bros. Pictures) Reese Witherspoon, Owen SEPTEMBER•2014
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FILM REVIEW
My Old Lady
O
Israel Horovitz’s Film Directorial Debut
rectorial debut of noted playwright Israel Horovitz, My Old Lady must work doubly hard to justify itself on celluloid in the face of its creator’s extensive theatrical background, as well as its own limited, stage-like scope. The film follows Mathias Gold (Kevin Kline), a depressed failed novelist who relocates from New York to Paris in order to inherit a large, expensive apartment that was left to him by his estranged father. However, Mathias’ intentions to sell and liquidate the flat for a quick buck are dashed when he realizes that his father had previously entered into an iron-clad contract known as a “viager” with Mathilde (Maggie Smith), a precocious old woman living downstairs. French law dictates that once an apartment is purchased in a viager settlement, it cannot change hands until the original occupant passes away. Thus begins a tense waiting game, as the frustrated Mathias tries to stay afloat while living upstairs from the very old crow denying him his rightful fortune. Along the way, he meets Mathilde’s snarky daughter Chloé (Kristin Scott
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Thomas) and embarks on a heated, yet ultimately good-humored little rivalry with the tenants. As the matter progresses, however, personal tensions boil over and secrets interlocking with Mathias’ past come to the surface, all leading to a surprisingly dramatic third act for what starts as an airy, if sophisticated, comedy. If the film feels a bit claustrophobic at times, it’s probably due to director Horovitz’s penchant for small, intimate family dramas, which are certainly better suited for the stage than the big screen. With that being said, he does at least make a valiant effort to expand the film's visual pallet by taking the audience on regular walking tours of Paris’ vibrant streets. Regardless, it’s clear that Horovitz’s real skill is not in the cinematographic arena, but rather in directing actors. Indeed, Kline delivers one hell of a performance as the tortured, sardonic Mathias. He plays equal parts vulnerable and cocky with the kind of self-assuredness an actor can only gain after decades of painstakingly honing his craft. In addition, Smith gives a crackling, if familiar, performance as the droll matriarch, and Scott Thomas gives the somewhat thin role of Chloé a fierce internal life. These bright points aside, it must be said that My Old Lady hits every trope of the, shall we say, “serious” school of family drama one typically sees in the dour, ivory-tower theatrics practiced by
Horovitz and other members of the Neil Simon academy. There are screamed revelations of dark secrets, hyper-wordy barbed back and forths and, of course, a suicide attempt that all culminate in yet another propagation of what the late David Foster Wallace called the “Great White Narcissist.” Mathias is the booboo blueblood inside every well-off playwright: perfectly witty, grimly charming and so born with, as Horovitz writes, “a silver knife in his back.” If only the writer could stop to find a little empathy for the other characters in his orbit rather than using them only as sparring partners to puff him up. Despite all this, the film must be judged on its own merits, and with that in mind, My Old Lady is largely a success. Good acting, good dialogue and good pacing all around. Now if only the writer could have stopped to find a little empathy for the other characters circulating the orbit of his semi-autobiographic GWN rather than using them only as sparring partners to puff up his wounded, yet all consuming masculinity.
3 Stars
—By Dash Finley
Films are rated on a scale of 5 stars (must-see), 4 stars (exceptional), 3 stars (solid), 2 stars (average) and 1 star (unworthy). My Old Lady releases in select theaters Sept. 10.
SEPTEMBER•2014
PHOTO: Cohen Media Group
ne might think theater and film go hand in hand, but although the two mediums share a great deal in common, history has proven that what works in one discipline does not inherently translate to the other. As the film di-
Kevin Kline and Maggie Smith in My Old Lady
TELEVISION
Fall Shows Are Coming...
A
utumn is just around the corner, which means TV networks have a whole crop of programming, both new and old, to satisfy your viewing needs. Below is a list of shows from the upcoming fall season that merit your interest.
“Gotham” Premieres Sept. 22 at 8 p.m. on Fox Comic books and their adaptations have been all the rage since Sam Raimi’s SpiderMan hit theaters in the summer of 2002. Almost 15 years later, not only are comic books still being adapted, but they’re being scheduled as theatrical releases six years from now. It seems only natural that the medium would start spilling into TV; in fact, there are two additional new comic-book adaptations coming out in the forms of “The Flash” (the CW) and “Constantine” (NBC), though “Gotham” seems to be best slated for success. Featuring impressive visuals and a detailed knowledge of the canon, “Gotham” rides on the success of Christopher
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Nolan’s The Dark Knight trilogy without stepping on its toes. With a story described as a prequel to Gotham’s superheroes and supervillains, the show’s central focus is Commissioner Gordon (Ben McKenzie, “Southland” and “The O.C.”) and his attempts at keeping the city clean.
“Black-ish” Premieres Sept. 24 at 9:30 p.m. on ABC Just the other day I was talking with some friends when the question popped up: What ever happened to Anthony Anderson? Like a message from the universe, the next day I saw a trailer for his new show, “Black-ish.” Created by and starring Anderson, “Black-ish” deals with race and identity in a
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Ben McKenzie and Donal Logue in "Gotham"
way that hasn’t been done before on television. Though Anderson’s character is firmly set in his own identity as a black man, he has trouble seeing eye to eye with his family who are much more eclectic in their cultural identity. With a supporting cast featuring Laurence Fish-
burne and Tracee Ellis Ross, this show’s concept and originality alone are enough to warrant a watch. “Boardwalk Empire” Returns Sept. 7 at 9 p.m. on HBO Produced by Martin Scorsese
and created by Terence Winter (writer of Scorsese’s The Wolf of Wall Street), “Boardwalk Empire” is entering its fifth and final season. Though often misrepresented as a gangster show about violence and grudges, “Boardwalk” is deceivingly complex and increasingly political in nature. Sure, it features elements of violence and revenge and all those juicy tropes we’ve come to expect from gangster productions (particularly those of Mr. Scorsese), but those are merely bridging points between the show’s ambitious scope. Featuring impressive performances from Steve Buscemi and Kelly Macdonald, among others, “Boardwalk” is set to go out with a bang.
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“Key and Peele” Returns Sept. 24 at 10:30 p.m. on Comedy Central Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele worked together on “MADtv” long before joining comedic forces to create the show of their namesakes. Though they didn’t quite hit the nail on the head on “MADtv,” “Key and Peele” showcases the duo’s comedic strengths both in front of the camera and behind it. With sketches ranging in subject matter from race and politics to pop culture and sheer absurdity, there is something for everyone to like. The show’s pilot earned Comedy Central its highest ratings for a premiere since 2009 and has even gained the praise of our own President, Barack Obama, himself the subject of more than one sketch. This series comes with the federal seal of approval and is all but guaranteed to be one of the funniest shows this season. “How To Get Away With Murder” Premieres Sept. 25 at 10 p.m. on ABC I’m not entirely sure how, but “Grey’s Anatomy” is entering its 11th season and doesn’t seem to be slowing down. With “Grey’s” and “Scandal” still running strong, it’s a wonder that creator Shonda Rhimes has to time to do anything else, let alone conjuring up a whole other series. Yet, here we are, and the new show in question is quite intriguing. It follows a law professor specializing in the death penalty, who along with her students, somehow find themselves involved in a murder plot. Using only the law and their wits, together they must lawyer their way out of guilt. The premise is interesting, and the title is gimmicky enough that it deserves at least one viewing. Add Academy Award-nominated Viola Davis as the lead, and you’ve got one hell of an idea with plenty of potential. “Homeland” Returns Oct. 5 at 9 p.m. on Showtime “Homeland” begins its fourth season with more curiosity than any of its previous beginnings. After sweeping the Emmys in its first season, taking home
SEPTEMBER•2014
Best Lead Actor and Lead Actress in a Drama Series as well as Best Drama Series and Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series, “Homeland” took a significant dip in quality and realism with its second season. Responding to critical backlash, the showrunners – previously known for their hit show “24” – responded with a noted increase in effort and thoughtfulness, if not completely successful in its attempt at higher quality. It could be the case that this show was doomed to deteriorate after its stellar beginning, but following last season’s finale, in which one of its central characters was killed off, one can only hope that a fresh be-
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bors. Though his surge in popularity gives credence to him having his own show, the generic premise leaves some big, gaping shoes to fill. Hopefully he can live up to it and set himself apart. "The Affair” Premieres Oct. 12 at 10 p.m. on Showtime One of this season’s more interesting concepts comes from Showtime’s new series “The Affair.” The show follows how cheating can affect a relationship, documenting both perspectives of the cheaters and those who are cheated on, as well as their dishes on the side.
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(1) “How To Get Away With Murder” (2) “Homeland” (3) “Key and Peele”
Book of Life's Jorge Gutierrez willThe jumpstart thedirector narrative and
ginning return the show to its former glory.
“Mulaney” Premieres Oct. 5 at 9:30 p.m. on Fox It seems like every up-and-coming comedian reaches a point in his or her career when he or she is given a TV show. Though “Seinfeld” is the obvious example, many others have tried and found great success doing this, such as Drew Carey, Tim Allen, Louis CK (twice) and many others. John Mulaney is the latest standup to get the sitcom treatment, playing a fictionalized version of himself as a comedian in NYC trying to make it big, with or without the help of his crazy neigh-
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It seems like TV has an overabundance of infidelity and tarnished romances, though this show looks like it might actually have something to say by exploring the often-complicated psychology of going astray. Led by talented actors in Dominic West, best known for his role on “The Wire,” and Ruth Wilson of “Luther,” this show stands a good chance of being informative as well as entertaining. Well, folks, that’s it for our guide to the fall season. hopefully this year’s crop will be enough to satisfy us ’til summer. Until then, happy viewing. —By Mark Mikhail
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MUSIC
Animal! Animal! ALEX GONZÁLEZ
A
of Maná and De La Tierra
lex González has always been a fan of music, especially instruments. He found his true calling at age 5: drumming. González, who is half Cuban and half Colombian, is nicknamed El Animal (the Animal), which is rather representative of him because he goes all out on stage when performing live. For many years, he has been the drummer of Spanish rock sensation Maná and is also now part of De La Tierra, a relatively new metal group that also includes Andrés Giménez (A.N.I.M.A.L), Andreas Kisser (Sepultura) and Sr. Flavio (Los Fabulosos Cadillacs). During an exclusive interview with the Miami-based musician, González spoke about the metal supergroup, their 2015 tour and even touched on Maná. Living Out Loud: De La Tierra’s self-titled album has been out for almost a year. How has its reception been so far, and how’s the evolution of the group coming along? Alex González: So far it’s been really cool. Even though all four of us come from important bands, we see ourselves as a brand new band starting from zero. We have to work our way up the ladder. We’ve done very few shows, and that’s not because we don’t want to play. Our schedules are just very difficult to work around. We knew that was always going to be a challenge, but the fact that we can now come to the U.S. and do shows for the first time is amazing.
LOL: What can you share about next year’s tour? AG: The idea is to come [to the states] next year, and do more shows in other cities. So far all the critics and comments we've received from around the world have been positive. We're surprised how well the band has been embraced by so many people – not just Latinos but different markets in the U.S.
LOL: Discuss the lyrics for the track “San Asesino.” AG: “San Asesino” is a song written by Andreas Kisser. More than anything it is a criticism of certain things that have happened in the past and also that are going on with religion. We try to touch on social subjects without offending anybody. It’s important to talk about social issues and things that are going on in the world and put them out there in the open.
LOL: What does the city of Los Angeles mean to you? AG: It’s awesome to see how all of California embraces Spanish rock. L.A. is a melting pot for rock music and all of the genres of rock, from metal to punk to alternative –
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everything, all styles. L.A. is the mecca. Everything that happens there spreads like wildfire throughout the U.S. I only have great comments about Los Angeles. It’s a city that just loves rock ’n’ roll. The Latino community is always very supportive. If you look at the history of metal music, they’re one of the most loyal fan bases ever.
LOL: Advice for a young artist who might want to follow in your footsteps? AG: If you have a dream, pursue it. Don’t let anybody tell you that you cannot do it. Don’t let any of the haters or any of the negative people affect you; it’s only words … Whatever you want to do in life, just do your best and [try] your hardest to be as good as possible. Don’t compete with others, compete with yourself. Surround yourself with good people and people that believe in you. Sooner or later you’ll achieve your dreams. It’s a lot of work, but the payoff is fantastic.
LOL: Anything cooking up with Maná? AG: Yeah, man. Right now we are in Miami recording the new Maná record. We started it in the beginning of July in L.A., did the drums in a week and then flew out here to Miami. We started guitars and Fher [Olvera] recently started singing the new tracks. The idea is to have a new single for mid/late September, and if all goes well, there should be a new Maná album out there at the end of November. And the idea is to start touring February 2015. —Marvin Vasquez For more information, visit delatierramusic.com.
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y b r e D r e l l o R
! a d i V r o P
L.A. Derby Dolls By Brenda Camberos
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SPORTS
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os Angeles’ Doll Factory is the place where Southern California’s premiere all-female, banked track roller derby league resides. The ladies that come to the derby have day jobs as businesswomen, students, mothers, etc., but once they walk in the doll house, they become whomever they want to be. Living Out Loud met up with the skaters and their fearless leader, Rebecca “Demolicious” Ninburg, to get an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look into the world of the L.A. Derby Dolls, the fiercest girls in Southern Cali. “I had no background in this business. I’m from Anaheim, fucking Disneyland,” laughs Demo, who along with longtime friend Wendy Templeton (aka Thora Zeen) founded Los Angeles’ roller derby league in October 2003. “I was looking for something outside work that would have a greater impact,” recalls the former sculptor. “I was with Wendy and noticed she had roller derby brand skates in her car. I told her I was looking for a school to join, but she jumped in and said she had wanted to start a league for a few years now. That was it, a no brainer!” Her fear of having little or no knowledge of how to begin a league and making it all happen became the pair’s strength and the drive that led them to create what the community of women skaters calls their “safe haven.” “I was aware that my naiveté was my strongest asset. I can’t recall how many times I started something and then it’s too much, it’s too hard, I’m too afraid – all my fears were hovering. Then I thought, what would my life be like if I didn’t have that fear, if I just did it.’ That is where the vision came to be. We simply thought, 'what do we have to lose?’” So the journey began, and they embodied the do-it-yourself ethos of modern roller derby, as resurrected in Austin, Texas in 2000. The L.A. Derby Dolls slowly but surely became an entirely volunteer-run organization, which relies on the support of their fans and community. “It started growing pretty fast. Within a couple of months we had about 40 women that were committed, they were training us. It became this space where we could really be tough, strong, wear makeup or not, it didn’t matter. We were here to bring back the sport that began in the ’70s and suddenly disappeared,” says Demo with an air of nostalgia. “This has been my life for 11 years, and there’s a comfort level here of exploring what there is to being a woman; it’s not limited to what society thinks a woman should be. It is more about what is my humanness, and how can I really explore that? You want to paint a black eye on your face for the game? Fine. You want to wear rainbow socks up to your thighs? Cool. This is an expressive, artistic space as much as it is a sport.” Pushing Each Other On and Off the Track The Doll Factory has really become a place where women support each other both inside and outside of the rink. Leave your judgments and troubles at the door because you have a game to play. “The girls really push each other in a lot of ways, even in their
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SPORTS personal lives. This is an empowerment and energy zone; it’s our clubhouse. We even have kids skate here [the Los Angeles Junior Derby Dolls]. Can you imagine what your life would be like if your mom had taken you to a place like this when you were little,” Demo asks. “It seems really scary, but the injury rate is low. It’s like soccer or any other sport. Also, this is not about trying to fit a mold. It is about every person, body type and style being useful here, and it should be celebrated. Everything else you leave at the door.” Not Your Everyday Los Angeles Of course there are people out there with negative perceptions of Los Angeles that feel like it’s a materialistic, image-focused, fake and cold place, but don’t mention that to Demolicious or the Derby Dolls because they don’t buy it. “I love my Los Angeles. This is our Los Angeles, and we’ve made it what we want. We’re not subscribing to a specific way of being,” exclaims the head of the league with conviction. “People here are going to be inspiring, they will encourage you and accept that everyone has their own path, their own time and their own speed. We want to elevate all women athletes, that is our ultimate goal. This is the L.A. we know.”
Derby Por Vida Whether your goal is getting fit, joining a super cool group of girls or finding yourself, the women all agree that “Derby is Por Vida.” How do you become a Derby Doll? The first step is checking out Derby Por Vida, the program that will get you rolling on both the banked and flat track. Anyone can join because there are both co-ed and women’s-only classes avail– able throughout the week. Ashley Hobbs (aka Whip N’ Ash) of the Tough Cookies got her ‘skate or die’ started there. “I had two co-workers who started in the Derby Por Vida program, which is basic training,
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Roller Derby 101. When I came in I was literally starting from scratch; I didn’t know what it was about. I was interested because working out on roller skates sounded fun. Had I seen a game beforehand, I probably would have changed my mind,” admits No. 562 with a shy chuckle. “I would come and take two-hour classes and fell in love with it, so I decided to try out for Fresh Meat in 2011. I was in it for almost a year then after we had tryouts and I got bumped up.” What fuels Whip N’ Ash’s passion for skating in the rink? “I get a huge adrenaline rush knowing that it was intense and I kicked ass,” she exclaims. “Of course, being surrounded by a bunch of awesome women who are so strong is great. It’s also a personal accomplishment just knowing I went out there, it was intense and I did that!” So, now are you hungry for some “Fresh Meat”? For those who are serious about being a bonafide Derby Doll, listen closely. The next step after Derby Por Vida is becoming part of the Fresh Meat. Each season, some people re tire, some move on to other things or get in jured. That’s when each team turns to the pool of new skaters, called Fresh Meat. From there, they go on to sub-pool which means they can be drafted for a home team. The program is open to women 18 and over and consists of practices on Sundays and Tuesdays as well as regular volunteer work within the league. The Safe Zone Num Mond (AKA Nhung Chux) is one of the younger and newer players in the league. Although she has a background in martial arts, this full-contact sport has given her more than just physical endurance and new athletic skills. She was looking for a com– munity, a place to belong. “I’m in the sub pool team, that’s a pool
Esteban Calderon
of girls that are eligible to be drafted on a team,” says No. 101, who is also fierce at kick-boxing and Brazilian jiujitsu. “With our banked track, a girl my size [She’s very petite.] can use the law of physics to take out girls that may be double my size or even stronger. I found roller derby flipping though a magazine. I went to a local orientation and signed up that night.” “I’ve never come across a group of females that are so welcoming. When I walk though the door, it doesn’t matter how I dress, what kind of music I listen to, if I have tattoos or not, if my hair is long or short, if I choose to wear makeup or not, they talk to me like anyone. At most places you work, you find a group of girls that are cliquish, like in high school. That doesn’t exist here. I’ve never walked into [the Doll Factory] and felt like I as alone. Here, I feel safe,” says No. 101 candidly. The bottom line is that the Derby Dolls are for every girl and any girl. All walks of life are welcomed into this league with one purpose: to build a community that empowers each PHOTO: Marc Campos person to explore their individuality, find the best in themselves and have fun doing it. The tough sport, which requires high-speed skating and aggressive playing, has brought together a strong community of over 150 dolls and counting. Ane Jens (aka Gori Spelling) has been playing with the Derby Dolls since 2006. She is on last year’s winning team, Tough Cookies, and is one of the league’s premiere jammers/blockers. “I was looking for something athletic to do. I hated going to the gym, and someone mentioned roller derby. I had no idea what it was because I hadn’t watched it on television or anything, so I Googled it and found the L.A. Derby Dolls, watched some videos online and was hooked,” she remembers.
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'Hooked’ is the word many of the girls use in Derby Dolls, hooked on the alternative sport, the vibe, the adrenaline, the passion and, most of all, the community that has given them a sense of belonging to something bigger than themselves. “The athleticism of this league is really high, and it’s challenging; I love that. I was also the kind of girl who didn’t have any girlfriends, I just liked to hang out with the guys. All of a sudden I joined derby and had 40 instant, really awesome girlfriends,” says No. 90210 proudly. Erikka “Purrfect Valdez” is a sexy Latina who plays for the Sirens and physically owns the sport that many call a mix between hockey and football. Her mother played derby in the ’70s, and the fearless feline joined the league to take what her mother started to the next level and beyond. She explains that, from outside of the rink, the sport may look intimidating, but once you’re in it, there’s nothing like it. “The good thing is that all of us train a lot, at least two-to-three times a week. We know how to fall, we all wear guards, helmets, etc,” says No. 777, who is also known for rocking rainbow-colored socks. “I do love the adrenaline and the aggression. I love getting in the rink and seeing the crowd cheering, but if I’m completely honest, I love this sport because I’ve come across a group of females from various backgrounds, walks of life and preferences that have come together for the love of roller derby.” The next L.A. Derby Dolls game is Sept. 6: Fight Crew vs Varsity Brawlers. For the full season schedule and more information, visit derbydolls.com.
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SPORTS Seattle’s Russell Wilson
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ere in Los Angeles, the leaves aren’t turning and it’s still hot, but football season has come anyway. Whether you want to see how your favorite team is looking or find out which match ups are worth watching, Living Out Loud has you covered with a preview of the 2014 NFL season.
Time for the Snap 2014 NFLPREVIEW
By Laramie Martinez
AFC South Indianapolis Colts – It’s going to be an easy division win for the Colts, with Andrew Luck leading the offense and throwing to the now-healthy Reggie Wayne. Their running game and rush defense has to improve from last year if they want to be conference champs. Jacksonville Jaguars – The Jags are starting QB Chad Henne instead of their third overall pick, Blake Bortles. It might not matter who is throwing, though, if no one in the receiving core can rise above and beyond. Tennessee Titans – The Titans are hoping to keep Jake Locker healthy and for Justin Hunter, who showed some promise last season, to have a breakout season. They are also attempting to run a 3-4 defense, but so far the change has proven difficult in the preseason. Houston Texans – It’s all about J.J. Watt and Jadeveon Clowney. The Texans defense really has to perform for there to be any hope of a winning season.
AFC East Buffalo Bills – Here’s another situation of a poten-
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PHOTO: Larry Maurer
AFC North Cincinnati Bengals – It looks as though the Bengals are going to have a great defense this year with a lot of players returning from injuries and coming from draft picks. QB Andy Dalton’s performance is going to determine if the team repeats in the most competitive division in the AFC. Baltimore Ravens – The Ravens need to improve their run game this season after being the third worst in the NFL. New addition WR Steve Smith is going to be an excellent target for Joe Flacco. As for the defense, it’s a younger squad that has to learn quickly if Baltimore wants to win the division. Cleveland Browns – The Browns had a pretty good offseason, picking up QB Johnny Manziel and Justin Gilbert. Unfortunately, Johnny Football has not performed well in the preseason, and the Browns' starter QB Brian Hoyer hasn’t done much better. Pittsburgh Steelers – LB Ryan Shazier is starting for the Steelers in order to give their defense a much needed boost. QB Ben Roethlisberger needs his O-line to improve if he is going to be a presence in the pocket.
tially great WR, Sammy Watkins, but a relatively young QB, EJ Manuel. This team must look to their defense, which was second in sacks, to carry them through this season. Miami Dolphins – Ryan Tannehill is going to play as best as he can, but the real concern here is the O-line. They also hope that signing Knowshon Moreno will give their run game the boost it needs. New England Patriots – It seems like the Patriots are always in the running for a championship, and this year is no different. They have a lot of new additions to the team, most notably, a recovered CB Darrelle Revis who will be a big help to their secondary. New York Jets – Last year the Jets had some problems with their pass defense, so they really need to pick it up if they want to compete with the Pats this year. Although they have Eric Decker as a pretty reliable WR, they are relying on the second-year QB, Geno Smith, to get the ball to him.
AFC West Denver Broncos – The offseason and preseason were all about improving the defense for Denver. With Peyton Manning at the helm, you know the offense is going to be able to put up the points, but it’s just a matter of their improvements being enough to win it all. Wes Welker, however, is suspended for the first four games of the season because of amphetamine use. Kansas City Chiefs – If you believe in momentum, then you better believe the Chiefs are going to have a rough year after coming back from some devastating losses at the end of last season. There is hope in RB Jamaal Charles and new LB Dee Ford. San Diego Chargers – Here’s another team that had an Achilles’ heel of a defense last year. It’s an area that new addition CB Brandon Flowers hopes to bolster, while the offense led by Philip Rivers continues to put points on the board. Oakland Raiders – Oakland’s offseason strategy doesn’t make any sense. Head coach Dennis Allen appears to not be too concerned with improving a defense that came in 28th overall last year. They also seem to be putting a lot of hope in QB Matt Schaub who is coming off of a disastrous year in Houston. NFC North Green Bay Packers – Julius Peppers and "Ha Ha" Clinton-Dix are hoping to lead a defense that struggled last year. On the other side of the ball, a healthy Aaron Rodgers can cement this team as the best in the division. Detroit Lions – Matthew Stafford is going to be under a lot of pressure this year. With a new head coach and offensive coordinator, he is going to have to adjust quickly if he wants to lead the team. He is getting some help from Reggie Bush and Calvin Johnson, but on defense, their secondary is still a big issue. Minnesota Vikings – Anthony Barr is expected to come up big this season while playing LB and coming up to rush in the nickel package. Matt Cassel is going to start at QB, but RB Adrian Peterson leads the offense with an excellent running game. Chicago Bears – The Bears need to improve their defense from last year. They have a solid offense with QB Jay Cutler, Brandon Marshall, Alshon Jeffery and RB Matt Forte all contributing, but
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it seems like whatever defensive additions that were made offseason were also balanced by losses.
NFC South Atlanta Falcons – The Falcons have a little hope now that WR Julio Jones is back in business. They also have a new DT from the Dolphins (Paul Soliai), who should benefit a defense that was less than impressive last year. Carolina Panthers – With the loss of Steve Smith, the Panthers are looking for QB Cam Newton to connect with rookie receiver Kelvin Benjamin. On the defensive front, the secondary, which performed well last year, is forced to reconfigure itself after losing some key players. New Orleans Saints – The Saints are looking to their rookie WR Brandin Cooks and second-year Kenny Stills to connect with QB Drew Brees. They are also hoping SS Kenny Vaccaro can stay flexible and effective on defense. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – The good news is that RB Doug Martin is back. The bad news is that QB Josh McCown had some problems getting the offense going in the preseason opener.
NFC East Philadelphia Eagles – If RB LeSean McCoy and QB Nick Foles do anything nearly as well as they did last season, this should be another division win for the Eagles. It’s really the defense that is going to determine how far this team will go. Washington Redskins – QB Robert Griffin III and WR DeSean Jackson can make for a serious threat, but it’s unsure if the combo are enough to counter an iffy defensive game. New York Giants – QB Eli Manning cannot afford to have another season like last year, and neither can the O-line. If they can get their act together and the new recruits can help the defense, the Giants could be a threat to the division this year. But that’s a whole lot of ifs. Dallas Cowboys – Not a lot of positive things to say about the Cowboys defense, but on the bright side WR Dez Bryant is always a dominant presence and QB Tony Romo isn’t bad either.
NFC West San Francisco 49ers – The Niners have been in the running for a Super Bowl win for a couple of years now, but have failed to make it to the big game. With QB Colin Kaepernick, WR Michael Crabtree and solid defense, this year might be their year. Arizona Cardinals – They have lost a lot of their defense, which was one of the best in the league last year. So they have to rely more on their offense, led by QB Carson Palmer and the receiving core of Larry Fitzgerald, Michael Floyd and John Brown. St. Louis Rams – Losing Sam Bradford in the preseason was a devastating blow to the team. It is going to take a lot for them to recover from it. Seattle Seahawks – It seems as though all the doubts I hear about this team – “it’s hard to repeat” or “something is bound to happen” – are almost superstitious. The truth of the matter is that, right now, the Seahawks are the best team in the league. An excellent defense coupled with the amazing QB Russell Wilson is a hard combination to beat this year.
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ROLLER DIVA
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CULTURE
What You Fear Is Here
Knott's Scary Farm
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By Sabina Ibarra
K
nott’s Scary Farm rings in the fall season by announcing its maze docket for this year’s Halloween event live, and Living Out Loud was there to get the scoop. At a special arena presentation, the creative directors of the theme park’s annual tradition shared with the public just what they have in mind to test your limits. Kicking off the show was a special appearance by the Mistress of the Dark, Elvira, to celebrate that her show would return to the lineup of live entertainment. Well, dead-alive – as she performs with her brigade of the dead. “Elvira’s Big Top,” features her ghoulish charms, iconic humor and sassiness in all her singing-and-dancing glory. As the fog continued to roll in, maze designers Timothy “Gus” Krueger, Brooke Walters, Daniel Miller and Lara Hanneman, along with the help of the emcee Jeff Tucker, announced to their legion of haunt fanatics just what lies in store.
Returning Mazes Trick or Treat – A haunt classic, where you’re invited to more tricks than treats as the park’s resident monster tricksters show you the true meaning of Halloween. Black Magic – One of last year’s most popular mazes, Houdini’s ghost is brought back in a seance and materializes demonic illusions as some of his most famous acts go horribly wrong. Forevermore – Walk through the gory crime scenes of a killer who has based his murders on the tales of Edgar Allan Poe in perhaps one of the most beautifully detailed mazes you’ll ever walk though. This one’s extra special for the horror-lit nerd crowd. “Every time we bring back a maze, we think, ‘how can we improve this maze?’ We open up spaces that needed more room, and in doing that, it’s allowed us to create more of these serial killers murder scenes where you actually get to witness our Forevermore killer committing a murder, which I’m really excited about,” shares Design Supervisor Brooke Walters. “I’ve added some really crazy art pieces to the finale that kind of mirror back to ‘The Raven’ art piece (the girl strapped to the wings). I took that and brought it to the finale.” When asked about what other Poe stories are incorporated into the maze, Walters replies: “I spent hours and hours combing through and picked what I felt were the most solid Edgar Allan Poe stories, not to say that next year we couldn't [choose more]. One thing I like to do is give a maze two years and then, in the third year, give it to a different designer and see what they do. It’s amazing the changes they’ll make and how much of a fresh face it will put on a returning maze.”
The Gunslinger’s Grave – Follow in the footsteps of a gunslinger on the road of retribution. He’ll leave bodies and violence in his wake. Dominion of the Damned – Wander in the lair of the immortal as they invite you to be a part of the feast ... as well as their feast. Pinocchio Unstrung – Looks like someone’s mad they didn’t get turned into a real boy and has decided to commit all sorts of horrifying acts.
New Mazes The Tooth Fairy – Say “Ahh” as the tooth fairy drags you into a nightmare dentistry full of blood and pain. Voodoo – Pick your own path in this winding maze that takes you through the mysterious swamps of New Orleans to uncover the supernatural rites and vengeance of Voodoo gods. “It’s been a dream of mine for years. I’ve spent a lot of my life in Louisiana, and there’s just something so gritty, authentic and amazing about New Orleans. I always [wanted] to fill a maze full of water and build bridges over it – and we’ve done that,” gushes Walters. “I have a pool in this maze, we have low lying fog, we’re getting preserved trees. It’s amazing.” Walters goes on to explain Voodoo’s storyline. “People have been toying with voodoo and the voodoo spirits, and the gods are pissed off. So they’ve come down to reap their vengeance on humanity in New Orleans,” she says. “You have zombies rising from the dead, exorcisms, human sacrifices, people being turned into voodoo dolls or being buried alive, demons and we’re buying a special stilt just so I can have a reverse-joint goat demon.” The creative team described all the new details in the returning but revamped experience, Trapped: Lock and Key, in which guests can sign their lives away and be put through some secret rooms with shocking tasks that will only stop being inflicted on you if you say the safe word: ‘boysenberry.’ As that presentation concluded the whole arena was quarantined by the military as they deemed the park “Infected” – a fun way to reveal the new interactive zombie-hunting event guests can sign up for at this year’s haunt. Squad leaders lead guests on missions with special laser guns to take out the zombies in an immersive Special Ops-esque activity. With all new thrills and daring experiences, the mother of all L.A. haunts is bringing the scary back for another season of its signature Halloween offerings. Knott’s Scary Farm runs Sept. 25-27, Oct. 2-5, 9-12, 16-19, 22-26, 29-31 and Nov. 1. For tickets and more information, visit knotts.com/what-s-new/knott-s-scary-farm.
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FOOD
On the Waterfront
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By Erica Carter
ummer’s over, but we lucky Californians typically Pizza. I had all three and didn’t feel bad about it, not even get to enjoy the beautiful sunshine year round. The a little bit. The truffle pizza, just two bites in, already made option to partake of a delightful meal beachside or it on my list of best pizzas in Los Angeles … and that’s a with a great view of the marina definitely adds to our good very short list. fortune. CAFÉ del REY provides the latter, with floor-toFor entrees, I loved that the Chef’s Selection is actually wall windows framing the dockside’s yachts and boats, and “As the Sea Provides” and changes accordingly. Right now even has a little beach (Mother’s Beach) not too far down the sea loves Yellowtail and so does the kitchen, as Chef the path. CAFÉ del REY’s proximity to the water makes it Abair adorns the fish with chanterelles, garbanzo beans and a hot spot for romantic dining and even a bottomless mi- a house-made cake featuring freshly ground chickpea powmosa Sunday brunch, but what makes it a place you want der. The chick pea cake is a playful alternative to polenta, to visit time and time again is its thoughtfully put together, which unfortunately has been really over-featured on other seasonal menu. menus. Executive Chef Chuck Abair’s abundance of innovative Most of CAFÉ del REY's menu is very Mediterranean ideas is best likened to a budding artist who has just learned inspired, as seen in the Barramundi with Brussels sprouts, that there’s no end to the possibilities of creating something tangerines, fennel and basil aioli. The Chicken Paillard feabased on pure inspiration. The menu, having recently been tured some of the most ambitious sides I’ve come across: updated two weeks prior to my last visit, is, of course, heavy figs, tomato and a lemon caper sauce. The figs probably on the seafood. The unexpected pairings of ingredients is sound out of place, but they are seared hot to what keeps you from getting bored with say, bring out the smoky, slightly sweet flavor. crab cakes or a piece of That balances out the saltiness of the capers salmon. and tomatoes; they go well with pretty much The crab cakes, everything. Dungeness to be This was just the lunch menu that I exexact, are very light; perienced, and brunch has even more opwith the familiar tions like the Hamburger with Brie, the stringy texture you get famous crab cake (but this time sandupon cracking open a wiched in an English muffin) and chococrab leg and pulling out late cream pie with chocolate streusel. the fresh meat. You You can even host a party dockside as won’t find a heavy mayCAFÉ del REY features a quaint private e room with the same gorgeous view as onnaise or eggy flavor rn pure with co e k a C b here, these crab cakes the rest of the restaurant. So, next time ess Cra Dungen taste like the East Coast. you’re looking for a place that provides good food in a Pair the Dungeness Crab great waterfront location, think of CAFÉ del REY. Cake with the foolproof Beet & Burrata Salad with a perked up Jerez (sherry) vinaigrette, and your culinary fiesta is off CAFÉ del REY is located at 4451 Admiralty Way, Marina to a delicious start. Del Rey 90292. For more information, call (310) 823-6395 If crab is not your thing, you have to try the Truffle or visit cafedelreymarina.com.
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PHOTO: CAFÉ del REY
Dining By the Sea at CAFÉ del REY
FASHION
Wearable Art
A
n image was uploaded on 1992Gear’s Instagram at roughly 4:30 p.m. on Aug. 25 that was captioned: “Join us tonight at @424onfairfax and be the first to pick up our collection with @spitta_andretti [emojis] 7pm10pm.” Sure enough, within an hour, the first few people were lined up outside the boutique. After the event on Fairfax Avenue, the clothing line’s two founders took some time to speak about their company. “This is homebase, Fairfax,” says Jaws Baca, one of the two men behind 1992Gear, the clothing brand that has nimbly been creating some fuss amongst street-wear aficionados. Their shirts have appeared on countless celebrities and online stores worldwide, from Australia to Japan – and all of this has happened in under a year. “We aren’t even a year old,” says Prince Dakkar, the company's other co-founder, creative director and designer. “It’s a blessing. We didn’t really focus on the fame, glory, money and prestige. We just did what we did, and everything kind of came naturally.” 1992Gear is an L.A.-based company that has successfully cornered the market using a conspicuous style of art known as “logo flipping.” When asked what makes them who they are, Jaws explains, “It’s our timing and our look. We want to continue to keep standing out with our own stuff and in our own lane, doing us.” Although this is an L.A. based line, it was New York that gave them their first well-deserved attention. “People thought we were from New York; we blew up in New York. I’ve been trying to do my thing in L.A. for eight years, and we blow up in New York before LA recognizes who we are,” laughs Prince Dakkar. “[Angelenos] didn’t
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Los Angeles’
1992Gear
know who we were until recently. Nobody knew who was doing this, and I’d rather be out of the spotlight. I rather it just be [the brand] and have it be an idea for people to run with.” It’s their swagger and their ’90s mental archives that have driven this race car so fast that it’s taken every checkered flag along with the way over the past 10 months. Prince Dakkar explains that these designs are from “years ago, and at one point in November we just did it.” Since November they’ve dropped around 20 designs and have sold thousands of shirts to a global market strictly on word of mouth. “We didn’t come up out here on some social nepotism, we didn’t know people, we didn’t get put on because of people,” shares Prince Dakkar. “If [artists, celebrities] got the gear, it was because they bought it. It wasn’t because we gave it to them,” adds Jaws. These designs don’t need advertisement mainly because the logos that are flipped are from well-established companies that have built a reputation for themselves (good or bad). When asked how they’ve gotLil Debbie in 1992Gear ten to this point in under a year, Jaws explains, “Artists have definitely helped because they relate to our concepts, they take it up on their own and do what they do with it.” Prince Dakkar adds, “This wasn’t forced, we didn’t shove it down people’s throats.” Buyers have related to them, the artists who wear their clothing and with the art that’s displayed on their chests. This simple concept of art on wardrobe items has turned shirts into more than just articles of clothing. They’ve become a message to society. —By Pablo Lopez For more information, visit 1992gear.com.
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CULTURE
Ink Master
Chris Bowman of Yer Cheat’n Heart Tattoo Text & Photos By Taylor Wong 34|
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TATTOO PHOTOS: Chris Bowman
L
os Angeles is home to many talented tattoo artists. One of these many talented artists, and my all-time favorite, is Chris Bowman of Yer Cheat’n Heart in Hermosa Beach. Bowman got his start in the tattoo world on his son’s first birthday seven years ago. This first tattoo took place on the couch in his living room in the form of the very popular Misfits Fiend Skull. Bowman shares that art comes naturally to him; his father was an artist. Bowman is talented in all forms of tattooing but specializes in Black and Grey as well as American Traditional. Bowman also dabbles in Japanese Traditional but tries to focus on his two favorite styles. He has tattooed most of Hermosa Beach, including Byron McMackin from Pennywise and Travis Walpole of Fortunate Youth. When asked if he has any crazy shop stories, Bowman responds with: “Working in Hermosa Beach, it’s a given that things will get rowdy. From drunk partygoers to the boys of Palmilla Restaurant coming through with an entourage of women to watch them get their tattoos. No particular story stands out that I’m really willing to share. Nonetheless, there is never a dull moment that goes by at Yer Cheat’n Heart.” Yer Cheat’n Heart Tattoo is located at 49 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach. For more information, visit yercheatnheart.com.
Travis Walpole of Fortunate Youth getting inked by Chris Bowman.
SEPTEMBER•2014
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“A bicycle because, as a tall person, the other two are terrifying.” —Gabriel P.
“None of the above. Rollerblades are my weapon of choice.” —Mark M.
“Roller skates all the way! They’re sexy and a classic. There should just be more roller skaters, period.” —Brenda C.
“Skateboard for sure. Bikes get stolen, and I’m not cool enough to roller skate.” —Jocelyn J. “Bicycle! I love feeling the breeze.” —Erica C.
Roller skates, skateboard or bicycle – which do you prefer to get around on and why?
STAFF PICKS
“I’m definitely more of a walker myself, but if I had to pick, I’d go with the classic bicycle over the two cooler options. My sense of balance (or lack thereof) would make skateboarding or roller skating a dangerous proposition.” —Dash F. “I tend to roller skate when I’m feeling groovy, skate when I feel like shredding and bike it when I need to get somewhere.” —Chris G.
“Bicycle, because if I were to use anything else I’d probably break my neck!” —Lupita W.
“Bicycle, all day every day. I learned how to ride without training wheels when I was 2 years old. To me, long rides are a stress reliever.” —Rafael O.
“Rollerblades on the beach are the epitome of sunny Los Angeles and the funnest way to get around.” —Ariel K.
“I usually just walk, take buses or Uber, but growing up in the punk scene, skateboarding was always a big thing. Skate or die, RIP Jay Adams.” —Evan S.
“If I had to choose, I would say a bicycle. Although it’s been a minute since I was on one of them, lol, but don’t they say you never forget how?” —Ariel P.
“Skateboard. You skate banks, and it makes you a better surfer.” —Patrick M.
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“Bicycles cover more distance, are faster and can transport more stuff.” —Humberto C.
“I would like to travel only by Vespa. I am very European.” —Paul Z. “Bicycle. I’d fall off the other options. A nice beach cruiser with a basket, so very L.A Beach Cities.” —Sabina I.
“I ride bikes! I wish I knew how to ride a skateboard and haven’t seen my skates in years. As a recent college grad my bike was my best friend, it got me to class on time, while my basket held all my heavy books.” —Elisa H.
“I like riding my bike through L.A.; nothing focuses the mind like the threat of death.” —Laramie M.
“I prefer my bicycle because there’s no need to be switching from shoes to roller skates, and skateboards are just too slow.” —Pablo L.
SEPTEMBER•2014
PHOTO: merchantcircle.com
“Bike for sure ... I like to go fast.” —David T.