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Los Angeles Times
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Los Angeles Times
David Kaff, who played keyboardist Viv Savage in ‘This Is Spinal Tap,' dies at 79
David Kaff, the British actor and musician who played keyboardist Viv Savage in Rob Reiner's hit 1984 mockumentary 'This Is Spinal Tap,' died Saturday. He was 79. His death was announced in a Facebook post by his band Mutual of Alameda's Wild Kingdom, which didn't specify a cause or say where Kaff died beyond noting that he 'passed away peacefully in his sleep.' 'We are devastated by this event,' the band added in the note. 'David always had a kind word and a quick wit that would slay you where you stand. Then he'd make you smile doing it!' As Savage, Kaff played keyboards in Spinal Tap behind lead singer David St. Hubbins (portrayed by Michael McKean), guitarist Nigel Tufnel (Christopher Guest) and bassist Derek Smalls (Harry Shearer). Reiner's film, which followed the band's introduction in a sketch on the 1979 ABC comedy special 'The T.V. Show,' expertly parodied the stylistic excesses of heavy metal — one enduring gag had Tufnel demonstrating that the volume knobs on his Marshall amplifier 'go to 11' instead of the usual 10 — and became a cult favorite eventually inducted into the Library of Congress' National Film Registry. The movie spawned a soundtrack featuring original songs written and performed by the actors, including 'Stonehenge,' 'Sex Farm' and 'Tonight I'm Gonna Rock You Tonight.' Kaff performed with Spinal Tap on 'Saturday Night Live' after the film's release but left the band before it made a second album, 'Break Like the Wind,' in 1992; he's not expected to appear in a long-awaited sequel to the movie, 'Spinal Tap II: The End Continues,' due in theaters in September. Kaff was born David Kaffinetti in 1946 and co-founded the British prog-rock group Rare Bird, which scored a Top 40 hit in the U.K. in 1970 with 'Sympathy.' In 1972, he played piano for Chuck Berry at a live gig that was recorded for Berry's album 'The London Chuck Berry Sessions,' which spawned the chart-topping 'My Ding-a-Ling.' Information about Kaff's survivors wasn't immediately available.
Geek Vibes Nation
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Geek Vibes Nation
Celebrating 50 Years of 'Jaws': A Cinematic Milestone That Redefined Fear
On June 20, 1975, a mechanical shark named Bruce and a haunting two-note score unleashed terror on audiences worldwide, forever changing cinema. Jaws, directed by a then-28-year-old Steven Spielberg, celebrates its 50th anniversary , marking half a century as a cultural juggernaut and the blueprint for the modern blockbuster. This article honors the film's monumental accolades, its transformative impact on the thriller and horror genres, and its enduring influence on filmmakers and audiences alike. Jaws was a critical and commercial titan upon release, earning over $470 million worldwide against a $9 million budget, making it the highest-grossing film of its time until Star Wars surpassed it in 1977. Its critical acclaim matched its box-office dominance, securing three Academy Awards in 1976: Best Film Editing (Verna Fields), Best Original Score (John Williams), and Best Sound. The film was also nominated for Best Picture, a rare feat for a genre film, though it lost to One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. Beyond the Oscars, Jaws earned a Golden Globe for John Williams' iconic score and was later inducted into the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress in 2001 for its cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance. The American Film Institute ranked it 56th on its '100 Years…100 Movies' list and second on its '100 Thrills' list, cementing its status as a cinematic touchstone. These accolades reflect not just the film's technical brilliance but its ability to resonate across generations. Redefining the Blockbuster and the Thriller Genre Jaws is widely credited with inventing the summer blockbuster. Before its release, summer was a slow season for theaters, but Universal's aggressive marketing—national TV ads, a wide release on 409 screens, and tie-in merchandise—set a new standard for Hollywood. The film's success proved that high-concept, mass-appeal movies could dominate the box office, paving the way for franchises like Star Wars, Jurassic Park, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Within the thriller and horror genres, Jaws redefined how suspense was crafted. Spielberg's decision to show the shark sparingly, due to mechanical failures during production, heightened tension and forced audiences to rely on their imaginations—a technique now synonymous with effective horror. John Williams' minimalist, pulse-pounding score became a character in itself, its duh-dun motif evoking primal dread. This less-is-more approach influenced countless filmmakers, from Ridley Scott in Alien (1979), which used sparse visuals to build terror, to John Carpenter's Halloween (1978), where a simple piano riff amplified suspense. The film's character-driven storytelling also set it apart. The trio of Chief Brody (Roy Scheider), oceanographer Hooper (Richard Dreyfuss), and shark hunter Quint (Robert Shaw) grounded the horror in human conflict and camaraderie. Their dynamic inspired ensemble-driven thrillers like The Thing (1982) and Predator (1987), where interpersonal tension amplifies external threats. Influence on the Creature Feature and Beyond Jaws birthed the modern creature feature, spawning a wave of 'nature strikes back' films. The late 1970s and 1980s saw a flood of imitators, from Orca (1977) and Piranha (1978) to Alligator (1980), each attempting to replicate Jaws' formula of a predatory beast terrorizing humans. While few matched its artistry, these films cemented the subgenre's popularity. Even today, low-budget shark thrillers like The Shallows (2016) and 47 Meters Down (2017) owe their existence to Jaws, as does the tongue-in-cheek absurdity of Sharknado (2013). Beyond creature features, Jaws influenced aquatic horror and survival thrillers. Films like Open Water (2003) and The Reef (2010) echo its primal fear of the ocean, while Crawl (2019) channels its blend of natural disaster and predatory menace. Spielberg himself revisited the template with Jurassic Park (1993), swapping sharks for dinosaurs but retaining the awe, terror, and human drama that made Jaws timeless. The film's impact extends to technical filmmaking. Spielberg's use of point-of-view shots, particularly the shark's underwater perspective, became a staple of horror, seen in everything from Friday the 13th (1980) to The Blair Witch Project (1999). His innovative use of the dolly zoom to convey Brody's shock on the beach inspired directors like Quentin Tarantino and Edgar Wright to experiment with visual storytelling. A Lasting Legacy Fifty years later, Jaws remains a masterclass in suspense, storytelling, and innovation. Its influence is evident not just in cinema but in pop culture—theme park rides, memes, and even shark conservation efforts spurred by the film's demonization of great whites. While it inspired countless imitators, few have matched its balance of terror and humanity. As we celebrate this milestone, Jaws reminds us why we fear the ocean and why we keep diving back in. It's more than a movie; it's a primal scream, a technical triumph, and a testament to Spielberg's genius. Here's to 50 years of keeping us out of the water—and glued to our screens. Note: All box-office figures and award details are sourced from historical records and industry databases like Box Office Mojo and the Academy Awards archives.
New York Times
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- New York Times
‘Will' Review: Heartache and Hope in Harlem
In the 1981 drama 'Will' — directed by Jessie Maple — Will (Obaka Adedunyo) is trying to gut out heroin withdrawal. Gripping his stomach, the onetime all-American basketball player is sweat soaked, his sleep punctuated with flashbacks to his time on the court. When his wife, Jean (Loretta Devine, in her film debut), returns to their apartment in Harlem and finds Will struggling, she asks why he's so set on getting clean without help. 'Nobody turned me onto this' but me, he says angrily. 'And I've got to kick it myself, even if it kills me.' Will's theory of going it alone changes when he takes a mentoring shine to Little Brother (Robert Dean) who, at 12, is already drawn to drugs. Will brings Little Brother into his and Jean's home and also starts to coach a girls basketball team. He attends a local meeting run by a self-assured espouser of positive thinking. Things are looking up for him. 'Will,' the first independent feature-length film by an African American woman, was listed on the Library of Congress's National Film Registry in 2024. (A year after the drama debuted, the playwright Kathleen Collins' semi autobiographical drama 'Losing Ground' was released.) The recent 4K restorations of these films by Black female filmmakers have added depth to cinema's historical record and offered tantalizing threads to tug for archivists and scholars. With its rough-hewed realism, 'Will' is remarkable not so much for its craft as for its philosophical depth in portraying the tensions between a struggling individual and his community, which can be both supportive and enabling. Where there's a Will, there's a way? With its balance of heartache and hope, the film suggests there could be. WillNot rated. Running time: 1 hour 20 minutes. In theaters.
Time Magazine
29-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Magazine
The Top 10 Music Videos of All Time According to AI
This article is published by a partner of TIME. Music videos have long been a cornerstone of pop culture, combining visual artistry with compelling music to create unforgettable experiences. Since the launch of MTV in 1981, music videos have transformed how we consume music, offering a new dimension of storytelling and performance. Some videos stand out not just for their artistry but for their cultural impact–the way they push boundaries and set trends. The best music videos elevate the songs they represent, creating a lasting impression that resonates far beyond their original release. Whether it's through groundbreaking special effects, intricate choreography, or powerful narratives, these videos have shaped the music industry and inspired countless artists. They have become cultural milestones, defining eras and sparking conversations. This list explores the top 10 music videos of all time, using research assistance from ChatGPT. These selections celebrate innovation, cultural significance, and artistic vision. Each video is accompanied by a summary and key details. 1. Michael Jackson – "Thriller" Michael Jackson's 'Thriller' revolutionized music videos with its cinematic approach, blending music, dance, and a chilling horror story. Directed by John Landis, the 14-minute video features groundbreaking choreography, special effects, and an unforgettable storyline that redefined the medium. Release Year: 1983 Director: John Landis Key Moments: The iconic zombie dance sequence, Vincent Price's narration Cultural Impact: Credited with turning music videos into a legitimate art form Awards: Won three MTV Video Music Awards Legacy: Inducted into the National Film Registry 2. Beyoncé – "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" With its minimalist black-and-white aesthetic and impeccable choreography, Beyoncé's 'Single Ladies' became a cultural phenomenon. The video showcases her incredible dance skills and empowers viewers with its message of independence. Release Year: 2008 Director: Jake Nava Key Moments: The now-iconic hand gestures and dance moves Cultural Impact: Inspired countless parodies and imitations Awards: Won Video of the Year at the MTV Video Music Awards Legacy: Cemented Beyoncé's status as a global icon 3. Lady Gaga – "Bad Romance" Lady Gaga's 'Bad Romance' is a visual feast of avant-garde fashion, surreal imagery, and bold storytelling. The video pushed the boundaries of creativity, showcasing Gaga's artistry and eccentric style. Release Year: 2009 Director: Francis Lawrence Key Moments: The fiery ending scene and iconic white costume Cultural Impact: Redefined pop music videos with its bold aesthetics Awards: Won seven MTV Video Music Awards Legacy: One of the most-watched music videos of its time 4. A-ha – "Take On Me" This innovative video used rotoscoping to combine live-action and animation, creating a groundbreaking visual style. 'Take On Me' remains one of the most iconic videos of the 1980s, blending romance and artistry seamlessly. Release Year: 1985 Director: Steve Barron Key Moments: The transition between animated and live-action worlds Cultural Impact: Pioneered new visual techniques in music videos Awards: Won six MTV Video Music Awards Legacy: Frequently listed among the greatest music videos of all time 5. Queen – "Bohemian Rhapsody" One of the first conceptual music videos, 'Bohemian Rhapsody' set the standard for the genre with its operatic elements and surreal visuals. Its innovative approach helped establish the music video as a key promotional tool. 6. Madonna – "Like a Prayer" Madonna's 'Like a Prayer' tackled themes of religion and race, sparking both acclaim and controversy. Its provocative imagery and powerful narrative made it one of the most talked-about videos of the 1980s. Release Year: 1989 Director: Mary Lambert Key Moments: Madonna dancing in front of burning crosses Cultural Impact: Generated global debate and redefined artistic freedom Awards: Won the Viewer's Choice Award at the MTV Video Music Awards Legacy: A trailblazer for socially conscious music videos 7. OK Go – "Here It Goes Again" This video features a simple yet mesmerizing concept: a choreographed routine performed entirely on treadmills. Its low-budget creativity and charm captured the world's attention and made it an internet sensation. 8. Peter Gabriel – "Sledgehammer" Peter Gabriel's 'Sledgehammer' is a masterpiece of stop-motion animation and visual effects. The video's surreal imagery and playful tone made it a standout in the 1980s and a hallmark of creative experimentation. Release Year: 1986 Director: Stephen R. Johnson Key Moments: The claymation sequences and animated fruit Cultural Impact: Set a benchmark for visual creativity in music videos Awards: Won nine MTV Video Music Awards Legacy: Frequently cited as one of the greatest videos of all time 9. Childish Gambino – "This Is America" 'This Is America' is a powerful commentary on race, violence, and social issues in America. Its choreographed chaos and layered symbolism sparked widespread discussion and acclaim. 10. Björk – "All Is Full of Love" Björk's 'All Is Full of Love' is an ethereal and futuristic video featuring robotic lovers. Its minimalist aesthetic and emotional depth make it one of the most visually striking music videos ever made. Release Year: 1999 Director: Chris Cunningham Key Moments: The intimate interaction between two robots Cultural Impact: A blend of art and technology, ahead of its time Awards: Nominated for a Grammy and won multiple MTV Video Music Awards Legacy: Celebrated for its groundbreaking visuals Conclusion on Top 10 Music Videos The top 10 music videos of all time showcase the power of combining music and visual art. These videos have not only defined their respective eras but also pushed the boundaries of creativity and storytelling. Whether through technological innovation, powerful narratives, or iconic performances, these videos have left an indelible mark on the music industry. To experience the magic of these masterpieces, watch the YouTube links in this article and dive into the visual and auditory brilliance that has captivated audiences worldwide. Related Articles: About the Authors: Richard D. Harroch is a Senior Advisor to CEOs, management teams, and Boards of Directors. He is an expert on M&A, venture capital, startups, and business contracts. He was the Managing Director and Global Head of M&A at VantagePoint Capital Partners, a venture capital fund in the San Francisco area. His focus is on internet, digital media, AI and technology companies. He was the founder of several Internet companies. His articles have appeared online in Forbes, Fortune, MSN, Yahoo, Fox Business and Richard is the author of several books on startups and entrepreneurship as well as the co-author of Poker for Dummies and a Wall Street Journal-bestselling book on small business. He is the co-author of a 1,500-page book published by Bloomberg on mergers and acquisitions of privately held companies. He was also a corporate and M&A partner at the international law firm of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe. He has been involved in over 200 M&A transactions and 250 startup financings. He can be reached through LinkedIn. Dominique Harroch is the Chief of Staff at She has acted as a Chief of Staff or Operations Leader for multiple companies where she leveraged her extensive experience in operations management, strategic planning, and team leadership to drive organizational success. With a background that spans over two decades in operations leadership, event planning at her own start-up and marketing at various financial and retail companies. Dominique is known for her ability to optimize processes, manage complex projects and lead high-performing teams. She holds a BA in English and Psychology from U.C. Berkeley and an MBA from the University of San Francisco. She can be reached via LinkedIn.
Yahoo
15-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Firing, hiring and a mystery: The 225-year-old Library of Congress has never had a moment like this
The Library of Congress, a 225-year-old Washington institution, has never had a moment like this. A week ago, the Trump administration fired the longtime librarian of Congress, Carla Hayden. The man appointed by President Donald Trump to be interim librarian, Todd Blanche, may not actually be the interim librarian. And Hayden's ouster may not even be legal. Here's more about the library, Hayden's ouster and the mystery of who's in charge now: What is the Library of Congress? The country's oldest federal cultural institution, the Library of Congress was founded in 1800 under legislation by President John Adams and has traditionally enjoyed bipartisan backing. In addition to its billing as 'the largest library in the world,' it could also be called the country's unofficial memory bank. It contains more than 100 million books, recordings, images and other artifacts and offers a vast online archive, and its contents span three buildings on Capitol Hill. Each year, the library's National Film Registry chooses 25 movies 'showcasing the range and diversity of American film heritage.' The National Recording Registry selects for preservation sound recordings that 'are culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant, and inform or reflect life in the United States.' The library also manages the nonpartisan Congressional Research Service, which responds to tens of thousands of requests from Congress each year. Communications are confidential from disclosure under the 'speech or debate' clause of the U.S. Constitution. Library of Congress events include an annual book festival, tours, films, exhibits and conferences. The Library of Congress is not a traditional circulating library but is instead a research library. No one under 16 can get a reader card to access the collection. Those 16 and 17 require a parent's permission. What does the librarian of Congress do? The librarian has a wide range of responsibilities, from overseeing the Library of Congress' collections to selecting the country's poet laureate to awarding the Gershwin Prize for Popular Song and the Library of Congress Prize for American Fiction. Librarians serve 10-year terms, and Hayden's was scheduled to end in 2026. Her predecessors include James Billington, Daniel Boorstin and Archibald MacLeish. Who was fired? Who was hired? Late last week, the Trump administration abruptly fired Hayden, the first Black person and the first woman to hold the position. Hayden, nominated by President Barack Obama in 2015 and confirmed 74-18 by the Republican-led Senate the following year, was informed via email that 'your position as the Librarian of Congress is terminated effective immediately. Thank you for your service.' More upheavals quickly followed. The White House fired U.S. Copyright Office head Shira Perlmutter, whom Hayden had appointed in 2020. The Justice Department then announced that Blanche, the deputy attorney general, had been named acting librarian of Congress and that Paul Perkins, an associate deputy attorney general and veteran Justice Department attorney, was acting director of the Copyright Office. Blanche was a member of Trump's defense team in his New York hush money trial, which ended last year in a conviction on 34 felony counts. Why was Hayden fired? The White House cited no specific reason in its email to her, although Trump has been purging officials he believes opposed to him and his policies. The conservative American Accountability Foundation had alleged she was promoting children's books with 'radical content,' and White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that she was 'putting inappropriate books in the library for children.' A copy of virtually every book published in the U.S. during a given year is given to the Copyright Office, with the Library of Congress deciding whether to include it in the main collection. Hayden's firing was denounced by Democrats, librarians, educators and others, including the outgoing U.S. poet laureate, Ada Limón. Appointed by Hayden in 2022, Limón called her the 'kindest, brightest, most generous Librarian of Congress we could have hoped for as a nation.' Did the White House have the legal right to fire her? Despite being nominated by the president, the librarian of Congress is a legislative branch employee and appoints leaders to other positions under it, such as the assistant librarian and the director of the Copyright Office. That's why a dispute between Congress and the White House has erupted as Republican leaders sort out how much authority the president -- the head of the executive branch -- has in tapping an acting librarian. Usually, if that position is vacant, an interim librarian is chosen from the current ranks of the Library of Congress. Who is in charge right now? Although Blanche was announced as acting librarian, he has yet to turn up at the Library of Congress offices, according to a person with knowledge of internal operations. The person was not authorized to speak publicly and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity. The library is currently being run by Robert Randolph Newlen, the person says. Newlen had been principal deputy librarian, and, per library regulations, was in line to succeed the librarian of Congress in case of absence or temporary unavailability. ___ Associated Press writer Seung Min Kim contributed to this report from Washington.
