Review: James Franco Attends Q&A of “My Own Private River”

Posted by The G on February 20, 2012 under G Reviews | Be the First to Comment

Photos by G.

James Franco

James Franco

On February 19, 2012, James Franco spoke at the Walter Reade Theatre in New York about his latest film “My Own Private River.”  When James Franco starred in Gus Van Sant’s film “Milk,” the director invited James Franco to a benefit premiere of the movie in Portland, Oregon.  The day after the premiere, James Franco got a special tour of the locations where another film directed by Gus Van Sant was shot.  That film was the 1991 picture “My Own Private Idaho.”  During this tour, Van Sant admitted that he had over 25 hours of footage comprised of dailies, outtakes, and miscellaneous unused scenes.  The footage is so incredible, James Franco got permission from all parties involved to make a different cut of the film.  The result is “My Own Private River,” a feature length ”alternate version” if you will, of “My Own Private Idaho.”  Per James Franco, all the footage used in his film is different than what was used in the original theatrical release and at least 40% is totally different takes, different dialogue or completely unused footage.  Knowing that River Phoenix would die of a drug overdose less than 2 years after this film was completed, the footage and story are even more poignant.

James Franco

James Franco

“My Own Private River” is really great for so many reasons.  Of course the top few reasons:  never before seen gorgeous footage of Keanu Reeves and River Phoenix, alternate scenes from a movie that so many people love dearly and getting Michael Stipe formerly of the band R.E.M. to record some music for this picture.  And on that note, stay tuned for a video of James Franco talking about Michael Stipe’s involvement!  James Franco has no intentions of his cut of the film “competing” with the original picture and herein lies the bad news – the film will probably not be released.  The film was made as an art piece and has already been shown at the Gagosian Gallery in Los Angeles.  The original idea (and it exists, per James Franco) is a 12 hour cut of the film!  We can only hope that one day, the powers that be will unite and “My Own Private River” will be available for the masses to see.  Until then, if you hear of a screening of this movie and you like any of the things I’ve mentioned in this report – make sure you don’t miss it!

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Q&A With Street Artist Street Grapes

Posted by The G on February 10, 2012 under G Interviews, Street Art | Be the First to Comment

Photos courtesy of Street Grapes.

On a walk through the streets of New York City, you’ve probably seen and stopped to look at the trippy and visually pleasant art of Street Grapes. Maybe you didn’t know the artist, but now that all changes!  Read on to find out more about Street Grapes!

The Energy Field by Street Grapes

The Energy Field by Street Grapes

According2G: Tell us a little bit about your background.

Street Grapes: I immigrated to the states about 5 years ago from Russia and have been living on the East Coast ever since.

Street Grapes

Street Grapes

 

A2G: Can you tell us some of your heroes/influences?

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Questions and Answers with Street Artist Kai Aspire

Posted by The G on November 30, 2011 under G Interviews, Street Art | Read the First Comment

Art by Kai Aspire.

If you live in Los Angeles, you’ve surely seen the work of Kai Aspire.  His iconic parody of the Marlboro Red cigarette pack (Morons – see pictures below) has been pasted everywhere!  His art has made the leap from the streets to the galleries, but little is known about Kai Aspire – until now!  I recently sat down with the reclusive artist and he answered a few questions.  Enjoy!

Morons by Kai. Photo by Kong

According2G: Tell us a little bit about your background including how you got started in street art?

Kai:I grew up in a house full of art, so technically speaking it’s in my “blood.” I think I got into street art when I was around 12 years old. I surfed, skated, snowboarded, and that kind of stuff and street art always has some kind of connection to those activities, but the real game changer was seeing Banksy’s show in LA. I didn’t even know it was street art, I looked at it and thought it was extremely clever and well put together.

Photo by Birdman

A2G: Who are some of your heroes/influences?

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Questions and Answers with Street Artist Earl Lee

Posted by The G on October 11, 2011 under G Interviews, Street Art | Be the First to Comment

Photos courtesy of Earl Lube Industries.

Millionaire.  Lady Killer.  Sportsman.  Street Artist. Earl Lee is in it to win it.  Earl Lee’s penchant for fast cars and winning ways have turned him into an elusive icon that the most gorgeous women can hang with for only a night or a three day weekend if she bring two friends. The President and CEO of Earl Lube Industries, Earl Lee continues to push the envelope with everything that is fast on land, air or sea while simultaneously breaking the hearts of every centerfold, starlet and trophy queen he encounters.  “Born to Race and Race to Win” is Earl’s motto… and he’s just getting’ warmed up…….  Find out a little more about Earl Lee and why all the girls love him.

All The Girls Love Earl!

According2G: How long have you been doing street art?

Earl Lee: Started on the mean streets of Newport Beach, Cali approximately November of 2008.

All The Girls Love Earl

A2G: Can you tell us a few of your heroes and influences?

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Questions and Answers with Street Artist Oh Captain My Captain (OCMC)

Posted by The G on October 4, 2011 under G Interviews, Street Art | 2 Comments to Read

Photos courtesy of Oh Captain My Captain.

OCMC It's About Time

Oh Captain My Captain (OCMC) It's About Time

When you walk through the mean streets of New York, perhaps you’ve seen some glamorous street art on your travels.  Faces from an era gone by line the streets, but who do those faces belong to?  What do the letters next to the faces mean?  OCMC is short for Oh Captain My Captain.  As you read on, find out more about OCMC.  Oh yeah!

OCMC Paris Street art 2011

OCMC Paris Street art 2011

According2G: Tell us about your background.  How long have you been doing street art?  How did you get started?

Oh Captain My Captain: I’ve been doing street art for a few years now. Basically, most of my free time was spent skateboarding bowls/pools. I had a bad accident falling in a bowl which left me with a brain injury and some lost memory. Doctors told me I couldn’t skate for 6 months, as no one knew if I were to fall how it would affect my memory at that point. I always liked pop art so while I was recouping I started getting more into it. I couldn’t afford to buy it but thought I would just make my own. I loved Warhol and I wound up learning to silkscreen from one of Andy’s silkscreen printers. Then I was off and running…

OCMC Mary in Soho

OCMC Mary in Soho

A2G: Who are your heroes/influences?

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