All Things Lesbian Social Network Too!

Sunday, 31 March 2013

All NEW Lesbian Web Series: Easy Abby

Phew! It seems like the lesbian film world has really taken to web series in this past year!

Well we have yet another great series for you to check out RIGHT HERE on All Things Lesbian.

This one is called Easy Abby. Check out the synopsis for episode 1:


"Easy Abby" lesbian web series Episode 1 "Portable Feast" (pilot).
Abby has a lovely way with women but not a way with love. When she bumps into a former fling but can't remember the woman's name, Abby starts to wonder if she has what it takes to fall in love. (Series launch!) http://easyabby.com
And here's the first episode, just for you!


Check out the rest of the web series by following the links HERE!

Saturday, 30 March 2013

Interview w/ Vanessa Selbst: The #1 Female Poker Player of ALL TIME!

Maybe you haven't heard of Vanessa Selbst. Maybe you have.

Did you know she's the number 1 female poker player of all time and she just so happens to be a gay lady?

Check out our interview right here!



All Things Lesbian: What got you into poker?

Vanessa Selbst: I grew up playing games; my family is big into games that use logic and deductive reasoning. In fact, my parents actually met playing bridge, so I guess you could say it’s in my DNA. I started playing poker about 9 years ago, just messing around with friends at college. I then learned about online poker and online poker forums, got serious about the game, and starting building my bankroll in cash games. In 2006, I played my first couple of tournaments and made my first televised final table at the World Series Of Poker. From that point, I was hooked.

ATL: As the top earning female poker player of all time, do you think it's important for
more women to get involved in poker as it's often considered a "man's game"?

VS: Poker is still seen as a man’s game because it’s mostly played by men. For a host of reasons, relatively few women try their hand at poker. Society has different expectations for women and women are not usually socialized to be aggressive, competitive, mathematical, and risk-taking. With that said, more and more women are playing all the time, and I think that poker, as an industry, is taking initiative in making the poker room a more welcoming place for women. From a PokerStars Women online presence to the World Series of Poker hosting a Ladies Tournament, an effort is being made to bring women into the game. On a strictly selfish level, women should play poker because it’s a really fun way to make a living, but on a political level, it’s messing with the status quo. The only way to make it less of a “man’s game” is to increase the presence of and the visibility of female players.

ATL: Your career enables you to travel all over the world. Which has been your
favourite venue so far?

VS: The sad truth is that when you’re playing poker every day, you don’t get to see much of the city you’re in. I try to make a real effort to get out and see some of the sights, even if it means arriving a day or two early. Barcelona is one of my favourite cities in the world, so it’s always a fun stop. I enjoy London a lot. Melbourne is a beautiful city. The waterslides at Atlantis in the Bahamas are a must do. I recently played a Latin American Poker Tour stop in Lima, Peru and loved the people, the food, and the scenery.

ATL: We read that you were head of the GSA during your time at Yale. Are you still
involved with LGBT activities like that one?

VS: Poker consumes a lot of time, but I still feel a devotion to LGBT causes. My partner and I are getting married in August, and decided to “register” for charitable donations in lieu of gifts. One of the non-profits we chose is the Hetrick-Martin Institute, a New York City-based organization that provides a host of resources for LGBT youth. I’m also in talks with some folks about potentially hosting (or co-hosting) a charity poker tournament to benefit an LGBT organization.


(Image source: curvemag.com)

ATL: Who keeps you inspired (both poker-wise and in terms of LGBT visibility)?

VS: I don’t know if it’s a “who” as much as it’s a “what.” I am really inspired by the shifting societal attitudes about the queer community and LGBT rights. As I write this, the Supreme Court is hearing arguments on proposition 8 and the Defense of Marriage Act. It’s so exciting to be part of a truly pivotal time for the LGBT community.

ATL: Do you have any upcoming events we should know about?

VS: I’m spending the spring traveling for poker—Florida, Berlin, and Monte Carlo. The early part of the summer will be spent in Las Vegas for the World Series of Poker, and then it’s back to New York to get ready for my August wedding! After that, it’s anyone’s guess. The future is full of possibilities.

Wednesday, 27 March 2013

New Dinah Addition: Leah Labelle!


LA REID, PHARRELL WILLIAMS & JERMAINE DUPRI’S NEW PROTÉGÉ
LEAH LABELLE
JUST ADDED TO CLUB SKIRTS DINAH SHORE WEEKEND LINE-UP.


The Former American Idol Contestant, Now Music’s New “It” Girl
Is Ready To “SEXIFY”
The Dinah’s Monte Carlo Party!

PALM SPRINGS, CA – Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend has just announced the addition of Leah LaBelle to its 2013 Entertainment line-up.
Building on its reputation as the inescapable venue for new recording artists to breakthrough, in less than 2 decades, Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend – the largest Lesbian event in the world - has positioned itself as a trendsetting event that entertainment industry insiders watch and jockey to book their artists’ performances.
As a MUST DO venue that has proven to be the catalyst propelling new young artist to superstar status, The Dinah was a logical choice for LaBelle’s record Label and agency (CAA), who reached out to Mariah Hanson (founder & producer of The Dinah) for a coveted spot on the 2013 Dinah Talent Roster.
Now following the footsteps of Lady Gaga. Katy Perry, The Pussy Cat Dolls, Kesha, Dev and Neon Hitch (to name a few), who, post-Dinah, have all gone to become Grammy/VMA winners, #1 Billboard charters, and international hitmakers, LaBelle is set to perform during the Dinah “Monte Carlo” party held on Saturday, April 6 at the Palm Springs Convention Center, following the buzz-heavy headlining performance by pop duo Karmin.
Showcasing her sensational voice and flare, the talented young artist will deliver a variety of songs from her new album (due out this year) including the hit single “Sexify” and her new track “Lolita”, produced by Pharrell Williams, which recently premiered on Complex.com.
No stranger to the music industry, Labelle was a contestant on the 3rd season of American Idol, bowing out at a respectable 12th position.  While she certainly made her marks on the TV show, it was her YouTube videos that made her an overnight phenomenon. As a result she landed gigs singing backup for such artists as Jordin Sparks, The Jonas Brothers, Eric Benet and Britney Spears.

The Canadian-born daughter of Bulgarian refugees eventually caught the eyes and ears of L.A. Reid, Pharrell Williams and Jermaine Dupri who signed her to a joint deal with their respective labels, Epic Recordsi.am.OTHER and So So Def Recordings. This former American Idol contestant turned backup singer, turned Youtube sensation (phew!), has now turned music’s new “IT” girl, making a whole lot of noise as a solo artist.A star in the making Leah LaBelle is about to blow up so make sure you come along for the ride …
To purchase tickets go to: www.TheDinah.com


Saturday, 23 March 2013

Lesbian Advice #3: Where's the Butch of My Dreams?

Wow, it feels longer than a month since we last answered your questions!

Let's dive right in and do this.



Disclaimer: This advice column is completely confidential - all questions are anonymous and the author will never reveal an inquirer's identity. All Things Lesbian and its contributors are not responsible for the personal interpretation of any advice given. Advice written here is the opinion and suggestion of the author, and the decision on whether to take said advice is completely down to the individual reader. We're not professionals - we're simply here trying to make things a little easier for you. Enjoy!

Question 1: How To Get Over This Guilt...


Q: Being confused about my sexuality, I did what was expected of me and dated boys. As part of that, I lost my virginity to one and had a regular heterosexual relationship with him for about 9 months. It was never easy for me and ultimately helped me figure myself out.

But now I cannot get this out of my head and I feel awful and trashy because of it. I have nightmares about it, like I was being raped. A lot of guilt and shame. Like I cheated on myself. Any advice on how to get past this?

Thank You,
E

A: Thank you for your question - it's a very important one that I'm sure a few more people out there need he answer to!

Firstly, we should take note of the word 'confused'. If you were confused at the time, clearly you'd have wanted to experiment and find out what you like. And there is 100% nothing wrong with doing that. Some people just need that extra reassurance and have to make sure they're positive when making such a big life discovery.

You should definitely not feel guilty or shameful about what you did in your past. It sounds like the heterosexual relationship you decided to get involved in was a natural progression in your life. In other words, don't put yourself down and have no regrets. At least now you're sure and that's what matters. 

Good luck!

Question 2: Want butch, stuck with femme.

Q: I've finally admitted to myself that I'm a lesbian yay me! I also have my first legit girlfriend who I love more than anything...  but the thing is as I become more aware of myself I become more aware of my preference. She is everything I want in a woman but she's not that butch. I mean yes I'm using labels. I'm a femme, I like butch women and it's not just about the look, it's everything that comes with it. The walk, the talk, the assurance. There are things she doesn't have that I need.

She's very passive; that's not good for me because I have a dominant personality. I feel like I have to wear the pants and that puts me off. Anyway, I've been thinking about going on a break and exploring but we’re planning to move in together sooner or later. I think about this a lot but i'm very wishy washy: sometimes she's my rock and sometimes I don't know what to do.

Anyway I'm plus sized and I don't have the prettiest face in the world. My body and image isn't the way I want it and to be honest I don't think the type of woman that I'm seeking will want someone like me. I mean let’s face it, attractive people are attracted to other attractive people. That's another reason I feel kind of stuck. My goal is to look the way I want by my 21st birthday and see where things take me then.

What should I do? I love her, I don't want to let her go, I don't want to hurt her... but I want to see what's out there. Any advice for me?*

A: Wow what is a complicated life you have!

It sounds to me like you're extremely fixated on the external. Maybe you should look to the internal. Do you like who your girlfriend is as a person? Do you like her personality? Or would you rather just be friends? Because to me, it sounds like the latter.

One thing I always advice against is 'going on a break'. To me (remember: don't take my words as gospel!) going on a break is just a transition between being together and breaking up. Breaks usually ultimately end with the end of a relationship. 

If you are really unhappy with this relationship, there's nothing to do but break it off. And dear GOD, don't move in with her. That's where things could really get messy. It's understandable that you wouldn't want to hurt someone you care for so much, but in this instance, it seems like you need to let her down easily.

In terms of your own body type, don't put yourself down! Women come in all shapes and sized, and self-hatred is not going to get you anywhere. Do what makes you happy. If that's going on a diet and hitting a gym, then go for it! It can be a great confidence boost. If being happy means eating cakes and watching television, that's fine too!

At the end of the day, everyone's just looking to be loved. You never know, the woman of your dreams might pop up when you least expect it...

*This question has been edited due to length and structure.

***

We love answering your questions here at All Things Lesbian!
To get your question in for the April issue of All Things Lesbian's advice column, email allthingsles@gmail.com in which your email will remain completely anonymous!

(If your problem was not answered in this issue, it will be carried over to an upcoming month. Some questions may not be published at all, but ATL tries our best to reply to each and every email, so send in your questions now!)


Friday, 22 March 2013

Interview w/ Kiss Her, I'm Famous Director, Rolla Selbak!

What is Kiss Her, I'm Famous? Only the hottest new lesbian web series on the map starring a few famous faces!

Check out what (the hilarious!) director Rolla Selbak had to say about the project.




All Things Lesbian: Kiss Her, I'm Famous looks awesome, but can you describe it in 3 words?

Rolla Selbak: Creamy. Luscious. Goodness.  Oh wait, that’s Nutella.

ATL: What inspired you to create the series?

RS: Nowadays, gratuity and fake publicity seem to be able to catapult just about anyone into the spotlight, so I wrote the series as a satire that tackles the phenomenon in a smart, subtle, and entertaining way.

My past work has trended towards drama, so I was also very excited to delve into the more comedic realm.  As far as creating a web series, I must say, connecting directly with the audience and being able to be in full control of the content is so refreshing, it’s such a high.  I love it.  It’s hard to go back to the more traditional ways of producing content as a filmmaker once I’ve gotten a taste.
 At the same time, though, I wanted to create something that was memorable, that stuck with people. That’s why it was important to create a good story, with compelling characters. I didn’t want to get caught up in trying to put out the next viral video.  I think there is a real thirst for quality, TV-type content on the Internet, especially within the Lesbian domain.

Of course there’s certainly room for both, but since my cat won’t let me dress her up in bread slices and pasties, I settled for the latter.

And now with platforms like tellofilms.com, who are the distributers of Kiss Her I’m Famous, that’s what you get.  It’s like the Lesbian Hulu.  For a few bucks a month, you get access to all these quality shows and content, all lesbian-centric. I’m happy to be a part of it.

ATL: What made you cast Tracy (Ryerson) and Ilea (Matthews) in the lead roles?

RS: Tracy was someone I had been eyeing to be a part of the project. I reached out to a few other possibilities, but it wasn’t gelling for one reason or another. Then Sheetal Sheth (whom I know from my feature film Three Veils) was a guest on Tracy and Stamie’s podcast, OFM. I thought: huh, maybe Sheetal can introduce us and see where this goes? I was introduced, I sent over the script, and the rest is history. There’s something about Tracy’s onscreen presence that really lures you in, and that’s what I was looking for. She’s got it.

With Ilea, I needed someone talented, energetic and smart to fill the role of Jen (who’s a handful in the series!) I was looking for someone with great comedic timing, but who also exuded sincerity. I wasn't having any luck through my own searches, and so I hired a casting director (Lori Laube from AE Casting) to help out. Ilea was on the top of her list, and after seeing Ilea’s previous work, and meeting her, she was the only one on mine.

Put both of them together and you've got that electricity I was looking for.



ATL: What was the atmosphere like on set?

RS: Principle shooting was a 5 days in Los Angeles, and I also shot some scenes in San Francisco as well.  It was a riot of course.  I mean there’d be something wrong if you put all of us in a room without craziness ensuing.  And when filming with folks you haven’t worked with before, it really is a crapshoot.  So I feel so fortunate.  My abs are still hurting from all the laughing.

The cast and crew were pretty darn queer, men and women.  It was so awesome, actually, I’d never had the privilege of experiencing that before.  We all got along so well; everyone was so respectful (especially when it came to the more intimate scenes). My crew is the best. I’d love to shoot anything with them, at any time, for any reason.

ATL: Would you point us in the direction any of your past/future projects?

RS: Well I mentioned my most recent feature film, Three Veils, starring Sheetal Sheth (I Can’t Think Straight), Mercedes Masöhn (666 Park Ave), and featuring Eric Avari (Heroes, The Mummy).  It’s a film about three young Middle-Eastern women living in the U.S, each with her own personal story.  As the film progresses, all three stories unfold and blend into each other as connections are revealed between the three women.

The film confronts delicate subject matters such as arranged marriage, homosexuality, and love within the Muslim-American subculture.  You can watch it on-line, from anywhere in the world, by going to www.threeveilsmovie.com, and pressing play.

I’ve also got a monthly Spreecast called Grrl’s Guide To Filmmaking, a show dedicated to aspiring filmmakers who would like to learn more about making films or online content.  I interview strong females in the industry, and audiences can interact live, ask questions, or just sit back and watch.  You can watch upcoming Spreecasts, or catch up on older ones on the GGTF Spreecast channel:http://www.spreecast.com/channels/grrls-guide-to-filmmaking.

As for the future, I’m always working on something.  We’ll see how Kiss Her I’m Famous goes, maybe a season 2 might be in store *crossing fingers*.  I’m also working on my passion project, “Empyre”, an intelligent dystopia about what the world will look like in 500 years.  So you know, along the same lines of Kiss Her I’m Famous, lol!

Now a question just for fun: Will you be at Dinah this year? And which celesbians are you hoping to hang with?

Yup, I will definitely be at Dinah.  I haven’t had a vacation in a year, so I’m so looking forward to it!

I can’t wait to hang with Brandy Howard and Julie Goldman again; they seriously crack me up! I’d love to meet Fortune Feimster, it’s always the best when she’s on Chelsea Lately.  And really, I’m also just also looking forward to being poolside, soaking up the sun and music, and chatting it up with whomever.  I’ve been in my editing cave for weeks, and can’t wait to bust out.

Wednesday, 20 March 2013

Join the Celesbians at Dinah Shore's Dodgeball Match

Did you know that the Dinah Shore weekend hosts its own celesbian vs. Dinah go-go dancers dodgeball game?

No? Check this out!


(Click HERE for a bigger version of the above image!)


Palm Springs, CA – Club Skirts and Sirius XM Radio are bringing back by popular demand the famously entertaining Fourth Annual "Celebrity Dodge Ball Match" at The Dinah this year again.  
The game will kick off with an exclusive, never seen-before, face off featuring our very own Dinah Go-Go Dancers versus the Celesbian team. 
Sporting their trademark go-go booty shorts and dancer tops on, the super sexy Go-Go dancers will play two sets against the returning champs, Team Celesbians. 
It’s on! The Dinah go-go dancers team has officially challenged the Celesbians! 
“We plan on beating the celesbians by using our sex appeal and our athletic body!!!  Keep in mind, we’re the girls who get up first thing in the morning and run in the sand.  So, to my pretty celesbians: bring it!!!.” says  Lupe Coronado captain of the go-go dancers team. 
“The Celesbians are a lean, mean, ball dodging machine and gyrating dancers will not divert us from the path of victory!” comments Doria Biddle, host of Sirius XM Radio “Out Q” and captain of the Celesbian team. 
The tournament will then be open to Dinah goers who will have the chance to play an exciting game against some of the celebrities part of the 2013 Dinah talent-roster all for the fun of it!  
A chance to brag, to gloat and to show this season celebrity players featuring Fortune Feimster, Jill Bennett, Rose Garcia, Kelsey Grace Chavarria, Nicole Pacent, Haviland Stillwell, Kim Stolz, Abisha Uhl, Lea Lorraine, Gloria Bigelow, Doria Biddle and Romaine Patterson - among many others - what it really takes to dodge some balls and bring home the trophy!  
Hosted by Sirius XM Radio personalities Doria Biddle and Frank DeCaro, the Celebrity Dodgeball Game will be held on Saturday, April6 at 11:00am at The Hilton Hotel Main Pool. 
Will our celebrity Dodge Ball stars take home the trophy again?

Tuesday, 19 March 2013

SNEAK PEEK: An Exclusive look at Lover's Game

You know we've been telling you so much about the awesome new up and coming web series, Lover's Game? We even interviewed the cast so you could get inside their heads. (Click THIS link if you missed it!)

Well the time has come for you to finally see an exclusive clip of the web series in question!

It's full of angst, adorableness, drama and love, so hold onto your panties!




What did you think? Want more? Let us know in the comments!

Monday, 18 March 2013

Winter Heat: The Hottest Women's Party in NYC!

Y'know what we don't do enough of here at All Things Lesbian? Let you know about some great fundraising events in the LGBTQ community.

This one's for you, New Yorkers.

The Empire State Pride Agenda will be hosting a party in the Meat Packing District at Kiss & Fly THIS WEEKEND. Check out the details:


This organization is a great LGBT organization which focuses on equal rights for LGBT families - something you are no doubt all interested in supporting!

Get yourself there and support a really great cause.

You can check out the organization's website at http://www.prideagenda.org/.

Saturday, 16 March 2013

The OFFICIAL Dinah 2013 Promo

Still undecided whether or not to go to Dinah Shore this year?

Check out their official promo and let the likes of Jill Bennett (3Way), Rose Garcia (The Real L Word) and comedian Suzanne Westenhoefer persuade you!


Come on, ladies. Let your hair down!

Friday, 15 March 2013

Awesome Lesbian Greetings Cards!

Are you fed up of shopping for greetings cards that just don't cater to a lesbian audience? I know we are.

So imagine our excitement when someone wanted to send us a free sample of their awesome LGBT-related greetings cards!


This adorable little Etsy shop sells LGBT-related greetings cards, at a meager $4 each (or 5 for $16. A bargain!)

And just look how awesome they are:

Great for a birthday!

"I am so glad we are on the same team."
Just say it like it is. *ahem*
Cute, right?

And you'll never have to hunt through thousands of heteronormative cards again!

What's more is they come in these cute little wrappings - it's always nice to find a company who cares.


What are you waiting for? Head over to browse cards for all occasions at http://www.etsy.com/shop/ragsandwidows.

And don't worry, there's something for the gay boys too!

Wednesday, 13 March 2013

Why is the word "lesbian" left out of text books?

Recently, talented writer and thinker James Morrison pointed us towards his article, The word "Lesbian" is not in the textbook?!

And it really made us think.

In his article, Morrison explains the origin of the word, and specifically looks at how it relates to Sappho, the famous female Greek poet.



Here's a little snippet of what he has to say:
In her poetry she celebrates her love of women. She celebrates the inner and outer beauty of women. Because she lived on the island of lesbos, and because of the content of her poetry, we now have the word “lesbian” and its contemporary meaning. Even Playboy magazine has picked up on her legacy. Oh, but heaven forbid if we teach the origin of the word “lesbian” and the historical importance of Sappho to students in high school! Oh, my…I think I feel a rant coming on.
Here is my question: Are textbook publishers becoming more interested in selling books that “don’t rock the boat” than they are in printing good “thought-provoking” books that challenge kids to truly think? I have my answer, but I would like to hear yours.
(Source | Teach, Not Preach)

So, what do you think about this?

The extent to which homosexuality should be taught in schools has been long-debated, but is it the time for change?

Interestingly, the title of James Morrison's website is "Teach, Not Preach". Do you think that rule should be applied? Let us know in the comments!

Monday, 11 March 2013

New LGBTQ Web Series: The 3 Bits

Here's a great new web series for you to dig your nails into: a Brooklyn-based story about 3 siblings, titled The 3 Bits.




The lesbian side of the story hasn't quite been posted yet... But here's a quick synopsis from the creators:

ROMAN BITS used to deal weed, but recently quit, much to her girlfriend’s dismay. When a member of Roman’s old crew steals a pound of weed from a rival operation, she finds herself in a tight spot. But she loves tight spots.
Sounds sexy, right?

And it is!


Check out the sneak trailer for Roman's character right here:



You can check out the web series' website by clicking HERE, where you can view the first published episode, starring the adorable gay character, Henry.

Friday, 8 March 2013

An Interview w/ Jill Bennett!

If you don't know Jill Bennett, you know nothing about the future of lesbian talent.

Already a favourite among the LGBTQ community, Jill has appeared in web series such as the hilarious 3Way, We Have to Stop Now and has appeared in queer favourite, Dante's Cove on TV.


What's perhaps most exciting is that Jill will be at Dinah this year!

Check out our interview with her right here.


All Things Lesbian: Firstly, it’s such an honor to be interviewing you – we’ve all been fans of yours for many years!

Jill Bennett: Thank you!   

ATL: Let’s talk your upcoming series, Second Shot. Can you give us any hints on what it’s about?

JB: Hint?  Why hint?  Here's a full synopsis: 

Katherine "Kat" McDonald (Jill Bennett) thought she had left her small Ohio hometown behind when she went out into the world to play pro soccer. When she gets word that her mentor, Dot, has died, Kat leaves her life in Miami and reluctantly returns home for the wake, only to learn she has inherited "Dot's Hole," the only gay bar in three counties. 

Kat's brief visit turns into her worst nightmare: being stuck in the tiny town she left, working with the local oddballs who call Dot's Hole home (Maile Flanagan, Maia Madison), and reconnecting with her first love, Allison (Amanda Christensen), who is now married to a man. Meanwhile, back in Miami, Kat's demanding girlfriend, Julia (Rosa Blasi), is wondering when she's coming home so they can get married.  


ATL: We know you worked with Dara Nai on your vlog, We’re Getting Nowhere and with Nancylee Myatt in 3Way. What was it like working together again?

JB: It was an absolute blast.  I adore both of these women, and it was an honor to be able to collaborate with them again.  The entire above the line production staff was made up of women - the creators, producers, writers and director. And most of the cast is female. I'm very proud of that fact.  

ATL: Tell us a little about what you’ll be doing at Dinah this year.

JB: First and foremost, the Friday night screening of Second Shot and Out in the Desert.  On Saturday, I'll be participating in the charity poker tournament benefiting HRC. In between those two events, who knows what kind of trouble I'll get into? Probably attending a pool party or two, enjoying the concerts, dancing and hanging out with friends. I'm really looking forward to it. 

ATL: Will We Have To Stop Now be coming back for a new series? (Or 3Way, for that matter.)

JB: We hope to do the last season of WHTSN sometime in the future, but there's no set plan as of yet.  I really care about that project and we want to wrap up that story and those characters... they were a huge part of our lives for many years. There was talk about a 3Way feature film at some point, but you'll have to ask Nancylee about that.

ATL: Will Second Shot be available online after Dinah?

JB: As of now, Second Shot will ONLY be available online for 48 hours during Dinah weekend.  We are offering a sneak peek of the first two episodes on April 6th and 7th for $4.99.  You can watch straight from our website or Facebook page - www.secondshot.tv or www.facebook.com/secondshotseries

We are offering a sneak peek because we haven't settled on a distribution model yet.  We are gathering numbers from that weekend to show a potential network or studio that we have a core demographic.  We need people to tune in!  We have 3 episodes in the can, but hope to do a full season and beyond.

ATL: Some fans have asked if the series will be available in the UK and Australia. Do you have any insight into that?

JB: Anyone from anywhere in the world can access it Dinah weekend at those web addresses.


Questions from fans:

First off, I think you’re a great actress! Do you have any desire to direct? And totally unimportant question but what’s your beer of choice?
- Shannon

JB: At this point, I have no interest in directing, but I do have an interest in producing, even projects that I'm not in. I find producing to be quite creative and I enjoy the process. Favorite beer: Anything from Germany.  I was there this summer and every pint I had was a little slice of heaven.

Considering how technology has changed our daily lives (not just social media but also the digital revolution in film/TV making) suppose someone wants to get into the film/TV business as an actor/actress now, what is a good course of action?
- Naomi, Netherlands.

JB: A good course of action is to make your own destiny by being your own production company. Sure, take the typical path of auditioning, getting an agent etc, but don't count on anyone else to create your career - that's entirely up to you.   

Did you watch the Oscars? Who’s your biggest girl crush right now? I’m curious!
- Sophie, Minnesota

JB: It's a tie between Charlize Theron and Kate Winslet.

***

You can follow Jill Bennett on Twitter at http://twitter.com/DailyJill, or like her Facebook fan page at  https://www.facebook.com/melindabennett75.

Be sure to look out for Jill at Dinah this year, where she'll be introduced her new web series, Second Shot! (Click HERE for the Facebook page.)

Tuesday, 5 March 2013

Interviews with the stars and director of Lover's Game!

Remember we told you about that awesome new upcoming web series, Lover's Game, directed by Danielle Earle?

Remember that interview we did with one of the shows main stars, Crawford M. Collins? (If not, click HERE to read it!)

Well look what we have here: an interview with the director herself and this gorgeous cast:


Firstly, let's go to the director/producer/writer of the show!

All Things Lesbian: What inspired you to write and direct the web series? 

Danielle Earle: The web series "Brooklyn Is In Love," was produced in 2010. I was a MFA film student at City College of New York at the time, and I decided to take a year off to pursue film directing. I was 24 years old and I was questioning my life at the time, as well as going through a large amount of emotional battles; such as money, love, heartache. I was losing faith of who I was, and what I wanted to be in my life.  I guess every 24 year old, in their mid twenties, went through that one way or another. It's a completely terrifying time, and, it was then when I decided to write a web series, related to that subject. I always want to make love stories, that are relatable for everyone to watch. Whether you are lesbian, gay, straight  We are ALL going through it. The show is about three best friends in their late twenties. Brian, a wealthy gay theater student; Diane, a lonely, confused, but loving coffee shop owner widow; and Nikki, a rebellious, wild-child, with no direction. All struggling to find love in Brooklyn, NY. The stories follows their lives, from beginning to finish, in life’s ever changing obstacles of love, heartache, pain, betrayal and despair.

ATL: Could you tell us about any of your upcoming projects?

We have two feature films in the works. "Lover's Game" is already in production, Starring Crawford Collins, and Miranda McCauley. Vincent and Annabella are a wealthy couple living in New York City. They want to have a child, but discover that children will never be a possibility. Soon, their ambitions of family causes an effect with their marriage. One day Annabella, meets a painter named Gillian; a seductive, exotic lesbian painter who changes her whole perspective on her future plans with Vincent. Their friendship becomes closer, after Anna offers her an opportunity to showcase her artwork at her Gallery opening on Wednesday night. Soon, Anna and Gillian's relationship becomes closer, which leads to a love affair, that causes a roll coaster of emotions of betrayal, seduction that eventually cause Anna to reach her breaking point.

It's a beautiful lesbian love story/thriller with a lot of twists and turns that I hope the viewers will enjoy. Our next project this Spring is "Mad About The Boy," Starring Miranda McCauley, Jared Van Heel, and Brennen Steines. Definitely stay tuned for that. 

***
And here come the cast interviews!
ATL: How did you get involved with the project?
Miranda McCauley (Gillian): I was cast in Brooklyn is in Love back in Season One as Diane. I was absolutely crazy about Danielle's scripts and I just wanted to keep working with her. When I read Lovers Game, I was practically screaming to be a part. 
ATL: Can you tell us a little about your character and what attracted you to them?
MC: Gillian is quite relatable to me. She loves. She loves so much, she's practically bursting at the seams. She's creative, intelligent, and so desperately in love with those that are unavailable. Oh, yes. We've all been there. I'm there every day!
ATL: What is the atmosphere like on set?
MC: We all became fast friends. I adore everyone in the cast. We're all so comfortable and open with each other. How else would we have been able to film such a great lesbian love scene?! Speaking of which... The day before filming said love scene, I worked a 14 hour day at my prison, I mean... Day job. I was exhausted but so excited to film such an intimate scene with the amazing Crawford Collins. The scene itself was beautiful, but afterwards, Danielle wanted to get a few cuddling shots. Apparently, they had asked me to change my position to get a better angle.... But I had completely passed out. They could not wake me up. Crawford even tried shaking me! They felt so bad for me, they stopped filming me and let me sleep!

ATL: How did you get involved with the project?
Ben Leasure (Vincent): I came into the project via Danielle our writer and director. She contacted me and mentioned her script as something I may fit in, initially suggesting the role of Paul, when I read the script I felt so much love and compassion for Vincent and Annebelle that I was borderline insistent that I read for Vince.
ATL: Can you tell us a little about your character and what attracted you to them?
BL: Vincent has a hero complex, and he is a heroic person within the scope of his life. The screenplay focuses on some of his most vulnerable, personal, and really horrifying moments. As a person with great social reproductive ambitions and an eye on legacy, Vincent is not self concious, but aware enough to fear failure and humiliation. The needs he has are so pure and relateable, and the seemingly negative reactions to these circumstances that I have as Vincent are truthful to a lot of people who find themselves in heighted emotional moments that test the very core of their moral fiber. So the attraction to me was to allow men in Vincent's position to see that their emotions whether right or wrong, are normal.
ATL: How did you become involved in this project?
Nadia Serantes (Elle - Gillian's ex-lover): Danielle Earle the writer / director contacted me and offered me the part of Elle. I had worked with Danielle before in Brooklyn is in Love and know what a wonderful artist she is. I completely trust her vision and didn't doubt a second to take up the role. 

ATL: Can you tell us a little about your character and what attracted you to them?
NS: Elle is a past lover of Gillian (played by Miranda McCauley). They have a very rocky relationship, Elle is a troubled soul. As an actress I enjoy complexity and this character gave me so many things to play with, from her brightest to her darkest side. It was a joy to be under her skin for a while. 

ATL: What is the atmosphere like on set?
NS: The atmosphere is wonderful! working with Danielle and her team is always fun and Miranda is such a generous actress that it is impossible not to have chemistry with her on and off screen. 


ATL: How did you become involved in this project?
Andrew Nielson (Greg): Last May, I did an Off-Broadway reading of Intermezzo with my current Lover's Game co-star, Crawford M. Collins. I discovered Danielle's web series (an LA WebFest award winner) when I found out that Crawford had landed a guest star in the second season. It wasn't long until Danielle and I started corresponding, and when she offered me an audition, I jumped on the chance.

ATL: Can you tell us a little about your character and what attracted you to them?
AN: Greg is an artist, and Gillian's best friend. He helped Gillian through the tragedy of her last relationship, and because of this knows Gillian better than anybody. He's sweet, caring, and a very self-assured person. It is his self-assurance that allows him to focus on Gillian. I think I was so interested in Greg because he is the loyal friend that everyone wishes that they had. Everyone has had a friend that they trusted so deeply that they were blinded to their friends faults....but Greg is friendship perfected. It is an unselfish  friendship without pretense. Some people might find that unrealistic, but have that friendship in my life, and I know what it looks like. It exists.

I think that is the most amazing thing about Lover's Game. It mixes realism with this idealized version of relationships. I think that beyond the blatant LGBT themes in the film, there is an incredible beauty in just the FRIENDSHIP that blooms so quickly between these two hurting women. They find healing through each other-and no one else could have done that for them.

ATL: What is the atmosphere like on set?
AN: Being on set is always a blast. So far, my favorite moment was the party scene with Crawford and Miranda. We get along so well! It was amazing to work with Crawford again...she's such an incredibly smart actress! I have to say, though, by my 25th cigarette for the roof scene, I was about ready to die. That may also have been because it was 30 degrees and windy.

***

Doesn't it sound great?! Are you excited for the release of this awesome web series? And how nice is it to hear how great the on-set atmosphere is from all of the stars? 

Stay tuned for the release of Lover's Game - no doubt we'll be telling you all about it!