Is PR good for us?

PR is really an industry which is like marmite; you either love it or hate it, depending on which side of the fence you are.
If you are a journalist, you definitely hate public relations, and as for the rest of the population, it depends how apathetic you are to a story. Perhaps this is why the industry whose job description includes ‘the planned persuasion of people’ gains so much negative coverage in the media.
Conceivably then it is no surprise that Mr. Morris, now a visiting professor at the University of Westminster, today joining us from Coventry University for yet another instalment of Coventry Conversations, is aiding the defence of the industry that has made him the most powerful man in public relations.
He began describing the industry as having a ‘powerful Machiavellian’ quality, in terms of political PR, which I find myself agreeing with – if there is one word to describe PR it is definitely Machiavellian. That need to hold the power of virtue, so the public see you in a positive light, yet be cunning in the production of your work.
However, he went on to contrast this with a new ‘sexy’ version of PR that is a result of recent pop culture influences, such as the character of Samantha in Sex and the City and the role of Edina in Ab Fab, who so eloquently said,

‘I make crap into credibility’

, which makes the industry of public relations look much more appealing and easy to graduates. So much so that PR is now the third most wanted job for graduates across the UK.
As he followed on from this to state that, ‘journalists need to be honest about their dependence on PR’, I felt that he was not only making a statement towards the relationship of journalism and PR, but also about PR itself.
When Morris first started in this industry, no – one really knew what it did, and definitely did not see it as a ‘proper’ job, which illustrates how far this sector has come in the public eye.
It is not accurate to say that public relations have just come into fruition in the past 20 years, but more precise to comment how the industry has built itself up. The ‘amoral industry’ as Morris so shrewdly puts it, is now enticing to graduates; the pay is exciting and the lifestyle too.
Nevertheless, as the small print warns of the precariously vast egos and the substantial workload – I would advise going into the industry with thick skin and sleeves rolled up.

'Is World Journalism in Crisis?'

That was the question being asked on Wednesday 28th October at Coventry University, as 'Coventry Conversations' held its latest event, bringing together journalists and media experts from all around the world.

Hosting the event was BBC College of Journalism Editor, Kevin Marsh, a key figure in the world of journalism today.

The likes of Jeremy Paxman and Adrian Monck joined us from London and Geneva via video satellite, the optimistic Nick Davies joined us from Brighton, whilst journalism.co.uk's Judith Townend and Professor Fred Mudhai graced us with their presence in person.

I have to begin by saying the views put forward from the various Professors and Journalists were just as diverse as the were themselves. Perhaps I was rather naive walking into the conference, but just over 2 weeks ago, I sat avidly listening to Jon Snow saying that the 21st Century was the best time to become a journalist, now I was hearing about confidence crisis, economic crisis, over saturation in the market crisis. Just crisis, crisis, crisis!

Adrian Monck avidly stated that 'there is a jobs crisis in journalism', which was a view that most of the other speakers, more or less, agreed with. I think this opinion roots in what Jeff Jarvis, joining us from the U.S.A, was saying about journalism moving towards an entrepreneurial model. He followed this up by stating how, in certain parts of the world, hearing or reading about current affairs was becoming increasingly difficult, so difficult in fact that they have come up with the idea of radio through free phone calls - a truly inspired idea and one which I would definitely invest in.

But it is rather dire to see how the 'fall' of the economy has lead to something as vital as news to be diminished, to a certain extent. How can it be that places such as Starbucks and Costa are thriving in these times, as people spend more on coffee, yet cut back on their daily intake of current affairs? - something which, to me, seems more vital than an espresso.

This then leads to one of the issues that both dominated the discussion on Wednesday and links in with the talk presented by Snow - technology.
It was the opinion of many that with the constant updating and innovation of new technology - journalism is moving towards an entrepreneurial model, via blogs, twitter and online newspapers. Indeed why pay for a newspaper when you can read online for free?
But is this the cause of a jobs crisis? After all, writers must be paid online, however 'virtual' their jobs may seem.
Perhaps the answer lies in the opinion of Paxman who stated, how the importance of money leads to the fact that the 'need of a story is not of paramount consideration'.
Now this is view that I definitely share, it does seem to me that in this fast paced world, and an even more pressurised business world, the need for real - and by real I mean, honest stories, stories that matter and make a difference, have been lost.
Yes, these ideas of mine may seems slightly romanticised, but, to me, this is what journalism should be about, this is what attracts me to the career and makes me want to write.

Therefore, it is really not much of a surprise when the aspiring writer in me perks up when Richard Keeble takes to the floor and opens 'Crisis, what crisis?', this is followed closely by Nick Davies who seemingly, launches straight into how we are not in a crisis, and how content and editorial standards are the problem, a view which I am sure is reflected in his book, Flat Earth News.


So OK, maybe it is time for me to get my head out of the sand and analyse the reality. Yes there is a crisis. But as I've had a few days to mull it over, it leads me to conclude that there is no need for panic, as every problem does have its solution, does it not?

So how do we solve this problem?

Well, I for one have decided to take to my rebellious side and carry on blogging to you via Lipsync, to give to you views as raw and honest as you can get. I'm determined to keep informing you with my version of the news.

But I'm not too worried, journalism is the most powerful platform, I cannot see a world where we have to live without it.

Question Time!

So I'm wondering what the ratings were for Question Time yesterday as it seems as though the whole of the nation tuned in to see the Oh so delightful Nick Griffin.

I was unsure of whether I should do this blog, because I don't want the hate driven BNP get any attention whatsoever, what with the ratings last night and the news headlines this morning.

But I just wanted to take a moment to make my opinions on Nick Griffin and the BNP very clear.
Before watching Question Time, I severely disliked Nick Griffin and his cronies, they are, in my opinion, hardly a political party as they seem only to have one key policy and are simply worthless, backward minded people who are not worth a second of my time.
But having watched Question Time, I can know come to the conclusion that I HATE to the very bones anything even relating to those 3 words of the alphabet.
I think Griffin will have to sleep with one eye open from now on due to the things that he said on the show. I cannot believe that someone could have the audacity to be so nonchalantly racist, then continue to be so blase about the issue!

My ancestral heritage is Asian, 3 generations of my family have lived and worked in Britain. They have earned their living every day, payed their taxes, voted, and remained law abiding citizens for the past 50 years.
I am a British citizen, I was born here, am being educated here and I call this place home. Griffin and his like - minded people have no right to take that away from me or anyone else.
If he wants people like us to leave, it would be interesting to see what would happen if we ALL did because I think there would be nothing left here. Britain is so multi - cultural and we should be PROUD of it, the most intelligent, intellectual, respectful people we have in our society are from ethnic minorities.
If we were to leave, what would Britain do without civil servants, doctors, lawyers, professors, entrepreneurs, manufactures, teachers?

And as for his thoughts on Islam? First of all, lets not even assume that any member of the BNP, has ever read the Qu'ran - they wouldn't even touch the text with a bargepole. Griffin's opinions on Islam just show how illiterate and ignorant he is towards other cultures and religions, his views are a garbled sense of hear say that he is using to his advantage to instill fear in people and increase Islamophobia.
In the Qu'ran it is stated that the definition of a good Muslim is a happy person, a nice person, a person that does not cause harm to others. Women should not be stoned to death for rape, and the shar'ia law is not something that compelling states love to carry out. The Muslim community is not a blood thirsty, hate loving community.
First of all, Shar'ia law, just like all law is there as a deterrent, if people are convicted of breaking the law there are procedures that have to be carried out, before the final sentence is reached. The laws are the same for all people, male or female - I find it incredibly weird that people can judge Islam for a harsh religion when capital punishment still exists in this world, something that Islam does not comprehend.

I would also just like to say, good on to Baroness Warsi, and the other panelists for having some damn good answers and points and for putting Griffin in his place, as well as the live audience too - its a wonder he got out of there alive.

I hope the show was an eye opener for those who watched and illustrates who NOT to vote for in May 2010.

Nativity!

I know Christmas is quite a far way away yet, despite what the department stores would lead us to believe, but having talked with Debbie Isitt yesterday, I thought I'd do a little promotional blog.

Most of you probably know Debbie from the film 'Confetti', which she wrote and directed, starring Martin Freeman.
Freeman also stars in her new film, Nativity, alongside Ugly Betty star, Ashley Jensen.

It great was to be able to get together with Isitt yesterday and talk about her film, which definitely looks like one to watch for Christmas. It was shot in Coventry over the course of 6 weeks, and follows the plot of a school teacher (Freeman) in over his head when he boasts that a Hollywood producer (Jensen) is going to come to see his school's nativity in hopes of making it into a film, cue much chaos, kids with stars in their eyes and eager, pushy parents.
From the bits of the film that were previewed exclusively, it looks like a laugh riot, Isitt is famous for her preference of improvisational comedy, which really brings out the personalities of alot of the children.

Isitt was fantastic in person, a genuinely passionate and driven person keen to make good films; films that will please the audience - and I think she has definitely achieved that here, she has produced a uniquely hilarious piece of cinema, which has the perfect amount of warmth and tinsel that will brighten up any winter night.

Make the family outing on the 4th December!

Who would be a Journalist in the 21st century?

So last week I bumped in Jon Snow, as you do of course.

He was a guest professor at my University giving a talk about Journalism, nonetheless.
As I sat amongst the other students and locals that had turned out to see him in the Cathedral, I really did not know what to expect, after all, this man is one of the most remarkable British news readers of all time, his honest opinions devoid of any propaganda, his direct approach, as well as the fact that he has been closer to a story more than anyone; he's rubbed shoulders with Idi Amin, Thatcher and a few old MP's just to lighten the mood.

Snow talked about the 'technological revolution' in his relaxed and humorous manner, and how the impact of this has made it easier in recent times to become a journalist; the wonders of the World Wide Web make information, accurate information, easier to find, to report, to reach an audience, it is therefore, in his optimistic opinion, 'the best moment to become a journalist'.

He, to me, was the epitome of a journalist, in the fundamental sense of the word, eager to get to the bottom of the story, to find out the truth, not because he needed to, but because he wanted to, he wanted to share the truth with the world. His manner was of urgency but not before he was fair, and objective and had double checked the facts. In his opinion, I feel he would say, that's what being a good journalist is all about. I would say that's the mark of a great journalist.

All in all he gave a positive and uplifting message to those listening to him from the pulpit, 'As long as people aspire for the best - we are going to live in the best of times.'

After the economy breakdown, high rates of unemployment and a loss of purpose, out came a bit of ethereal optimism.

Glamourously British ;)

http://insideout.topshop.com/blog/2009/10/london-loving.html#

Why is it that in 2009 it can still feel like the stone ages?

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/crime/article6882552.ece

According to the opinions of some, what Tulay may have done was wrong, but no - one deserves to be treated this way, why is it that these days we skip communication 101 and just go to action?

Offensive or Art?

This picture just went completely viral online. It is one of a 16 page spread from French Vogue in which a white model was painted black.
Many people have taken offense at these pictures, similar to the one posted above and believe that a real black model should have been used instead of a white model in art.
Maybe its my ignorance (although I'm sure of that I have none) but I believe that using a white model and painting her black gives more context to the photo, and creates a purpose or statement; the model is trying to be something that she is not and that is the irony of the photo which makes it beautiful, or maybe the photo is trying to illustrate the beauty of being black. Period.

You know maybe it's the fashion world who believe that they have the power to do what they want and call it art, or maybe we, as a population are getting increasingly sensitive about race issues, where we should now, in the 21st century, 2009, be attempting, at the very least, to be comfortable with it.

I can understand this as an issue if females who weren't white were not given a chance, but there are more than a few models, certainly and naturally black, who are on runways, front covers and certainly issues of Vogue.

Vogue has run spreads where models dress up as boys, I didn't hear any backlash then - what does that say about feminism?

Like I said, maybe I'm being naive, maybe I don't understand it - but I don't think any harm was meant.

I Must Be The Lion - Hearted Girl....

Have you ever wondered what marks our timing? How a time, a place or a distinct moment evolves itself into a memory, becomes embedded into our minds, then waits to be re-awakened?
Re-awakened by a smell that takes you back, or a sound. Music.

I always love to have a new soundtrack to a new season, it puts a skip in my step when I walk out of the house, a smile on my face that extends to my confidence.
I have to say I have outdone myself this autumn, but maybe I shouldn't take all the credit - most of it should go to Florance and the Machines, with their album 'Lungs'.
It's so amazing to hear music like this, the lyrics are amazing, there isn't a track on the whole album I don't like.
But most of all it creates the perfect scene. The music has enough intensity, with a smidgen of chirpiness which can brighten the dullest of mornings and exude drama to mix in with the chilly winds and crisp red leaves...

Sometimes the world can really suck

Lemme tell ya something guys - if we were to judge the moral standing of the world, more often than not these days it falls short.

I wonder if people know the difference between right and wrong anymore, in the world as it stands at the moment people think they can make mistakes and then apologise later (if they get caught).

David Letterman is one of those people. I like the guy, he's a good host, he has a good tv show, but what he did was wrong. He's been married for over 20 years and has been 'cavorting' with god knows how many women for god knows how long. So when you read an article title about how he's publicly apologising to his wife and somehow how he's a martyr for doing so, it really pisses me off - to put it frankly.
The guy only came clean because he got 'caught', he was being blackmailed and it was only a matter of time before he came out and then really looked like the bad guy.

I bet his wife was sitting at home stabbing the tv or throwing bottles of alcoholic substances at it, if she can even bear to see his face.

The karmic angle to finish it all off though - the blackmailer faces prison, Letterman carries on as normal, well as normal as he can I suppose.
I know that blackmailing people isn't on the right side of morality but I can't help but feel that the real criminal is getting away.

I Just Bought This!

And I lurrrrrve it! It's the faux fur gillet, and man am I looking forward to wearing it. Actually alot of the fashion this winter is making me feeling warm on the inside just thinking about it! And I'm not a winter kinda gal, but the mohair jumpers with sequin detailing, the snoods, the eskimo - esque hats - makes me flash forward to snow and high fashion sidewalks, or pavements for us british folk. Either way me and my gilet will be looking forward to a fashionable yet warm outing together!

xo xo

Kinda makin a big deal outta nothing, dontcha think?

Argh. Open your eyes people. Grow up. Deal with it.

This woman is beautiful and I can see no problem with her body, she looks HEALTHY. So's she got a bit of fat, I mean what the heck?!

Our generation really needs to start getting over the whole, super skinny, size 'im a walking zombie/skeleton' 0.



http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2009/sep/02/lizzie-miller-model-fat

Heyurr!

Just came accross this website: http://www.atribecallednext.com/ - I think its something to do with the Radio 1 DJ Reggie Yates, but it looks damn good.

Something I think we should keep our eye on!

Lovage xo xo

The Devil Wears Carolina Herrera....

Anna Wintour. Does that name send shivers down your spine?

The editor - in - chief of Vogue is arguably more well known than the fashion bible itself. Not least due to her infallible style sense which orchestrates our wardrobe choices in more ways than even we know....
But I'm guessing that the release of the new film 'The September Issue' will have her well known amongst all industries, not just fashion alone, if she isn't already.
I, for one, am really looking forward to the release of the docufilm which depicts Wintour's professional life as she puts together the September issue of Vogue, one of the biggest and most weighty (both pragmatically and literally) issues of Vogue throughout the year.
Call me a fashion lover, call me curious - I both am dying to have an 'inside peek' in the world of fashion editing and seeing how these minds are inspired to choose what we wear for the upcoming seasons and would LAHOVE to see the 'real' Anna, I mean we all want to know how close to call Meryl Streep was....

The September Issue is in cinemas across the UK, September 11, where you too can watch and decide if the devil really is hiding behind that sweet voice.

P.S : Think Wintour released the film as a revenge attack against The Devil Wears Prada?

I am in Love....

Hello there my lovelies!

Apologies again for the absence but social functions of the marital kind had me gripped for weeks.

I'm back to tell you, yes I am in Love. I came across the pictures which stole my heart whilst surfing online. The romanticism, the grace with a touch of rebellion can still be relayed through these lost photographs of a much remembered icon. A staggering 59 years on and the lens transports me right back to the epitome of that era, the tainted lips, soft curls and the well placed features of classic beauty. The photos still remind us in 2009 just what it was about the divine Marilyn Monroe that captured everyone and left them reeling after just one glance.

Be sure to venture back and take a look:

http://www.life.com/image/88010853/in-gallery/27412/marilyn-neverpublished-photos

Lol!

...thats all I can say, check it out....


http://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/celebrity/news/daily-gossip/090717-harry-potter-actor-pleads-guilty-to.aspx

Kristen Stewart the new Emma Watson?

....or the American version of Emma Watson I should say.

So, as you've probably already guessed, I've finally watched the Twilight movie. I must say it was a better than I thought it would be, and I must confess that never before did I think that vampires could be so sexy.
Robert Pattinson really does do a good job portraying Edward Cullen, his talents are able to show through much better than his role playing Cedric Diggory in Harry Potter.
However, (as the critical me has been waiting to say for so long), I feel that the movie has been let down by Kristen Stewart, who plays the female lead of Bella Swan. Her sometimes wooden and often laid back style of acting, does not capture the screen - or the audience, as I believe that it should, it instead leaves her presence feeling a little dull.
I, could of course, be wrong, after all it is the first film of hers that I've seen, and I have not read the books, and therefore don't know of the character she is portraying but watching the film throughout all that kept running through my mind, was alike Emma Watson she was.

Hot or Not?

Rhianna's hot. Kanye looks good. He never misses a beat. Dope tune (is 'dope' still a viable lexis?).
Anyways, I can't figure out why I didn't like the video?! It has all the elements but still.theres.something.missing. Argh.
Perhaps the fact that the video looks a bit cheap, or maybe I'm still reeling from the slickness that was the Heartless video - amazing.

Anyways, let me know what you think, and btw I'm talking about the Paranoid video!


http://ryanseacrest.com/blog/whats-happening/kanye-paranoid-never/

Chanel Numero Cinq

Sorry about the time lapse between posts guys, examinations of the political kind had become obstacles, but now that freedom surrounds moi, I am at your service once more.
So with all the minutes in day to pass by, I became utterly entranced when I turned on the TV and saw the sexy vixen that is Audrey Tautou laze across the screen, looking no less than breathtaking, might I add.
I am, of course, talking about the debut Chanel No.5 advert, in which they have now replaced Nicole Kidman with Audrey.
Audrey just looks so effortlessly chic in this short film, the epitome of a classic french woman, a greatly fitting choice for a representative of the perfume, I think. She manages to bring a refresing take of the 'black and white' nostaligia and classic themes by which Chanel have, rightly, pinpointed in their new campaigns.

You can watch the ad here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bVmuOhoFn3U

But also check out Keira Knightly in the Coco advert, she's just as amazing:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8BKZgOVFyGc

...now all thats left is to put on the red lips, and like me wish to be transported back to time of romanticism, blues. Oh lets not forget the magical Chanel of course!

Remember, Remember!

The 2009 European Parliament elections are fast approaching - 4th June!
Please make sure to register so you can vote, you have to be registered by the 19th of May.

It's really important for all of those within the European Union, as this is the only time that you can control or effect any changes that are made, the European Union is fast becoming a powerful federal community, it's changes to law and such effect all domestic governments.

Log on here to register:

http://www.aboutmyvote.co.uk/

The Outnet has Launched!!

Sorry lovlies, just a quick one here, too busy with revision :(

The Outnet went live today, amazing stuff on there, really worthwhile checking it out, but be quick, items are selling out fah-hast!

http://www.theoutnet.com/



Caution: Side - effects such as drooling may occur.

Literally LOL stuff

Just in case you felt like you were having a bad day

http://www.fmylife.com/

Where's Zardari?

The media has reported yet another terrorist attack in Islamabad, Pakistan today. Unfortunately I don't its the last of any for a while yet.
The suicide bombing took place in a police base, killing at least 5 police officers and injuring many more, the exact figures are not known as yet.
This attack reflects one which took place last week, where fugitives infiltrated a police academy, shooting and killing many serving officials and successfully creating a scene of havoc and panic.
It is clear to devise that these attacks have been on the instant up rise since the Taliban reigned authority over the Swat region; the fact that both of the attacks have been aimed at devolved sections of government, can only lead to the conclusion that the Taliban are beating their chests and marking their territory, so to speak, it as looks as though, as predicted, they are looking to expand their horizons.
However unfortunate and deeply saddening this may be, what angers me the most is that the government seems to be doing nothing about it.
Where is Zardari? His cabinet? What are they doing to stop what is fast spiralling out of control? While civilians band together to help the injured and the weak health system, it certainly looks as though Asif Sahib is enjoying sitting on his chair grandly overlooking the people, oh lets not the forget the photograph of his late wife beside him of course.
On a serious note, I just have to say, Zardari, get your bloody act together and help YOUR PEOPLE, help YOUR COUNTRY! They need you right now, it really does send out a lashing of pain to see the country buckle from the militant pressure and age backwards day by day.
Do something. Do it fast.

In love with Rumi

I have been aware of Rumi and his poetry for quite some time now, but have never really had the chance to delve into his history and find out more about him, but recent research has made me realise how I've missed out.

A well renowned poet and philosopher all over the world, he originated from Afghanistan and resided there in the early 13th century, hence the reason why all of his work is written in the native Persian, however, it is fairly easy to find translations of his work today.

As a Muslim, it is argued that his poetry highly influenced, if not, lead to the creation of Sufism, as both Rumi's work and Sufism share the same common themes of love and devotion to God and sharing a closeness to God through the heart.

Reading his poetry, you can really feel the meaning behind which Rumi was inspired to write such beautiful words, the cohesion of his words are like musical notes sung by birds; it really does leave the reader awestruck at how an individual could pen such a strikingly universal prose, that 8 centuries on, people can still relate and feel his sincerity.

His work really is poetry in every sense of the word. I leave you with a hard - hitting quote and a request for you to check out his work.

'Reason is powerless in the expression of Love. Love alone is capable of revealing the truth of Love and being a Lover. The way of our prophets is the way of Truth. If you want to live, die in Love; die in Love if you want to remain alive.' - Breathing Truth, Jalaludin Rumi.

Annoyed at the Sexy

OK, so the sexy ass PCD girls are back flaunting their seductive selves on our TV screens, not that I'm annoyed about that, but they've seemed to have done a remix of Jai Ho, one of the tracks from the Slumdog movie, with the producer AR Rahman.
Now, as you can probably tell from the above lines, I'm a fan of the Pussycat but I'm a LOVER of Slumdog, that movie really did it for me this year, and Jai Ho is one of the masterpiece tracks that I love, and I hate the fact that it has been remixed for commercial reasons, the Dolls don't even sound that good on the track, just look good in the video, but then again, don't they always?!, in my humble opinion, I really think that they've ruined the authenticity of the track.

Give it a go and let me know what you think:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DAzhg0zemQ0

What is the world coming to?

The link just says it all:

http://www.fmylife.com/love/705373

But, P.S! FB is supposed to be a social networking site, not a 'lets conduct a Reality Show via a profile'. But Dayum, feel sorry for the guy, yet im inclined to laugh....

Somebody gon-ah get-ah hurt real baaaad

Gosh, guys sorry about updating in a while, the world events have left me without inspiration, but I just 'discovered' this new comedian, Russell Peters. I know he's been floating around for a while, but I just managed to watch some of his skits, and dude, is this guy funny or what?!

Check out the link and laugh until your pants fall off :

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0zpkUozdRQ&feature=related

For the Designer Lovahs

As a regular visitor of Net-A-Porter.com, I am super excited about the creators giving us www.outnet.com .

Selling designer clothes at discounted prices, I just cant wait til it goes live next month.

Damn it!. Must. Try.And.Not.Spend.Money.

Hurrah!

The world of glitz and glamour gets a reality check...I mean foinally!

Reading the Style section of the Sunday papers, (as I do each Sunday), I came across an article which made me just want to punch the air a wee bit.

Entitled 'Anything Goes' - its standfirst goes on to say, 'There are no rules to what we find beautiful these days.' - Like there should be any godamn rules in the first place.

The article centred itself around real women, and how they are making strides in fashion, both on and off the runways.

I feel saddened to think that this in itself may be a trend, started by Giles Deacon actually using normal women on this runway shows, tattoos and professional boxers anyone?
But, anyhow, as least its made its way onto the bloody map, yuh get meh? I was beginning to wonder when the era of size 0 would be over, I mean it was scary for a while, with even a glimpse of the double 0 *shudder*.

But I guess, 2009 really is the year for change, when we're embracing women like Beth Ditto and Gemma Arterton amongst the way.

So go for it girls! Be who you are and BE REAL, but then I guess, you really should do that whatever, no matter what other people say.

Ahaha....

Lord Mandelson gets a faceful of green custard by an environmental protester, just before he and Brown were scheduled to meet for a summit on low-carbon emissions.

The protester had balls man, and you gotta admit, it was a funny moment!

Think we should do more to be green ?

Play-ah!!

Spotted....AR Rahman in the new Convict/Colby O'Donis/Kardinal Official vid, 'Beautiful' ?

xo xo

Argh!....

Sorry lipsyncers!....I've been offline for a while, internet problems yo. I've missed out on so much...MJ back on tour, damn going to need to get some tickets to see that action, classsic toones to be grooving to...

Ah, and on a dampening note, the attacks against the Sri Lankan cricket players in Pakistan, c'mon guys get your act together, its all about PEACE, what is the point of these maiming attacks?! Bad for sport, bad for politics, bad for integration, just plain bad baby.

From the Bad to the 'it's getting ugly'....our dear Bank of England was forced to cut interest rates yet again to 0.5%, let's see if these desperate measures work in reviving the ever slumping economy....

Annnd, finally, Fairtrade Fortnight guys, in order to raise awareness of fairtrade products, millions of people have pledged to have a banana eating marathon from noon today for the next 24 hours, and also set a new world record!

Lets how it all plays out.....

xo xo

I Do....

Gisele and Tom Brady married?....rumors are they married on wednesday in Cali-forn-i-a. the couple who have been dating for 2 years wed in a small church, with the bride wearing D&G.

Best of luck to them
xo xo

All We Need Is Love!

Where's that song from? Love actually maybe? It makes me think of Bill Nighy (if thats even his name), so maybe.....

So, anyway, just came across this magazine, called LOVE, no doubt. Amazing title, and collage of music and art, especially loving the peices on Agyness Deyn and the Jagger offspring, and bravo to Beth Ditto, leading it for the 'curvy' girls of our generation.

Check it out:
http://www.thelovemagazine.co.uk/

Lovage xo xo

What were they wearing?

The fashionista in me has to comment on the dresses from the 2009 Oscars! Gossh, I have to say, ima little disappointed, a lot of the A-listers chose to play it safe….such as Angelina, she looked hot but black just looks so boring on the red carpet, go for colour mayyyn!

Many of the fashion critics are on the fence about darling Freida Pinto’s Galliano gown. But I gotta say, I love it, the colour, the draped shoulder style, with the gentle but effective embellishment giving a nod to her roots.

Another stunning dress, has to be Marisa Tomei’s white statuesque creation by the legend that is Versace.
I just love the sculpted, structured style with the soft feel, and together with the simple up-do and minimal make up, she just looks effortlessly beautiful as she lets the dress do all the work (in that great body!)

Anne Hathaway's silver mermaid creation is also one for the top of my list, I have to say I don't think she's made a red carpet mistake yet......however, not on the top of my list are Beyonce, and SJP, now I know that alot of people are going to want to kill me for saying that, I mean SJP is known as a certified fashion icon, but her 'barely mint' dress, although pretty just wasn't working it for moi, and as for Beyonce, the bold gold leaf print and the tight fishtail cut just reminded me of curtains to put it bluntly.

What do you guys think?

Jai Ho!

Yesssss…..Slumdog totally kicked it at the Oscars last night, for those of you who haven’t heard yet, they won 8 of the 10 awards that they were nominated for, including best director and film.

The whole cast was there, with the oh-so- cute kids having been flown out from India, to enjoy the new found limelight, one of the highlights among many has the be the youngest Jamal asking Fearne Cotton how the show could be possibly be going out live at 2am as no one would be watching - bless him!
Such as well deserved win for a film that definitely was the underdog. Another well deserved win goes to Kate Winslet.
After so long, she finally managed to win the Best Actress award, and not cry through the acceptance speech!
So in all in all, a night to remember for the Brits fo' sure...

And, ah….my guy Mickey, the ever cool dude was quipped to best actor by Sean Penn, but I guess he didn't mind so much losing out to his 'brother'.
Penn gave what can only be described as an historic acceptance speech, I really think people will be talking about it for years to come.
Regarding his audience as 'you commie homo loving sons of guns…' he went on to salute America and his fellow Rourke, as well as politicising his speech and urging 'equal rights for all’.

So, as all those honoured with an award revel in awe and the rest chilax from the partying, I’ll end this post with an AR Rahman quote:

‘All my life I've had a choice of hate and love, i chose love, and I'm here’ (upon accepting his award for Best Original Song Jai Ho)

Oscar Countdown....

After weeks of the adrenalin build up, we've had the Golden Globes and the BAFTA's, the excitement is doing double time, as the Oscars finally are nigh!....
I must say, what an amazing year for film it has been so far, when I look at the nomination list for the 81st Annual Academy Awards, the panel have a remarkably tough one on their hands.
Being British, I'm obviously going to be biased and hope that Slumdog gets a good going on the night. Not only that, but it's just such an amazing film that it has become a cult classic for my personal collection already. I really hope that their winning streak pursues through till tomorrow night, but then again with 10 nominations in 9 different categories, I reckon they've got a good chance.
I also really hope that the late Heath Ledger wins a posthumous Oscar for his role in the Dark Knight, his portrayal of the Joker is one, which I feel, will last with the audience for a long time to come, he has made the character almost timeless with his presence.
I guess apart from that, everyone is a winner, as all the movies honoured with a nomination are just spectacular peices of work.
Although...just a little slip in for Mickey, gosh I love that guy! His acceptance speech at the BAFTA's was utterly hi-larious. What an achievement it would be for him to win an Oscar and show that he's not ready to kick it yet.
Goddd, also looking forward to the red carpet, (who wouldn't be!?).....hmmm, the gowns, the styles, whos going to wear the statement dress of the evening, who's going to get it wrong. We all know it'll make or break the 'ones to watch' style icons of 2009.
So while the A-listers are being pricked and pruned to perfection, we can just sit back and enjoy the night.
Till the next post Lipsync-ers
xo xo

Pakistan, the new Afghanistan?

So, I just read online that Pakistan are submitting to the Taliban's interests, somewhat, when it comes to the territorial area of North Pakistan, .....
Pakistani officials have agreed to ban music and letting young girls go to school for a simple education. This type of decision making just makes me want to pull my hair out, I mean puh-lease!, what the hell are the Pakistani Government thinking?! (not alot by the looks of it).
I understand that the Taliban are a very dangerous and ever-present force in Northern Pakistan, and are by far easy to deal with and combat, they have caused much turmoil since their insurgency in 2007, by bombing many schools, which have been built with Pakistani citizen's money, based on their own want for a better educated society in order to further themselves amidst the globalization process.
But to take away fundamental values from people, in order them them to befit a ceasefire for a short while, is incredulous, in my opinion.
An education should be every person's basic, fundamental right, and should not be played on or used as a bargaining chip by anyone. I mean, what to the Taliban think? that little Pakistani girls are going to get an education and use that to defeat them? Is that what they are so afraid of? Women finally beating the oppression that they so unwillingly endure everyday?
Well, if that is true, I hope it works, I hope that these girls fight back and show them that the female population can be ambitious and get to places in the world with a smart mind, and with integrity.
What do the Taliban have? mis-used texts from the Qu'ran; they exploit the one thing that they claim to love so much - what does that show?
Their 'peace-deal' with the Pakistani government officials, count as a ten day truce, whilst they instill Sharia law in the Swat region.
I agree that a truce, along with the Taliban laying down (not surrendering), their arms is a good move, as many of the innocent and poor civilians, as if often the case, were getting caught between the blows from either side, and had resulted in over 1,000 deaths and casualties.
The President, Asif Ali Zardari, claims that they pulled back troops as it was the wish of the people, but it really doesn't take an idiot to work out that that is definitely not the case, I mean, as a politician, I'm shocked that he can't lie better.
Much of the word from the province, is that the military defence could not defeat the Taliban, or protect the people of Swat, hmmm, I'm wondering who conceded defeat then?
But, my question is, what next after the 10 days? What's the next goal that the Taliban want to achieve?
They now have the Swat region, and a few others surrounding it, under their belt, how long till they have a hold of the whole of Pakistan?
Does the President, not have any fears for his country? He should know more than anyone that the Taliban will stop at nothing when trying to take what isn't theirs, that's just the ignorant,selfish mentality that they have.
How long till the political 'officials' of Pakistan, wake up and bloody well realise, that the country is not a game, with the civilians as pawns.
These are real people's lives that they are playing with, and real futures. Pakistan could, potentially, really make something of itself if only everyone wasn't wrapped up in their own selfish games.

The Man Bag

Finally, the male population has something to rejoice about! A trend that is aimed at them (OK, so it may have taken some direction from the female fashion area, but all the same).
Seen on the fashion catwalks since 2006, it was one of the those trends, that although looked super sexy on the models, most guys didn't have the courage to enact in reality.
I guess all of that seems to have changed, having seen quite a few of the guys around campus flaunting their testosterone powered bags (and looking mighty fine at that, may I add!).
The man bag gives the carrier a certain amount of edge and cool chic, which I'm sure no guy would want to play down.
In the past 2 years, there has been an increase in vanity and grooming from the man front, this probably plays a part in designers noting sales increases on accessories such as man bags.
But whatever the reason, I personally love this trend and think that in the 21st century there should be no inhibitions in fashion, so all fashion - lovers break any stereotypical 'rules' that there are...
...And c'mon, lemme see those bags!

90210 - Hot or Not?

So, we're more than a couple of episodes in to the remake of the 90's hit show, Beverly Hills:90210.
It seems that after 9 years of putting the original on the shelf, the 'zip-code' is apparently still too hot not to re-create.
I still can't decide if I like the show or not, I've watched all the episodes without fail, and it is essentially, a good American teen drama, but it just seems to be lacking a certain something.
The beautiful actors are present, (some barely there, with the ultra skinny waistlines), so too, are the engaging story lines, so far the show has covered drug addiction, alcohol abuse, illegitimate children.
In between all of the above and the glamorous parties and Jimmy Choos, I have to say the show seems a bit weak.
As a keen follower of many other shows such as Gossip Girl and One Tree Hill, and of the classic O.C, I have to say that I think that the show just seems to be wallowing in the saturation of the 'same old, same old' scenario.
The show ticks all the boxes but lacks that certain edge, that perhaps viewers in today's day and age need to keep them hanging on.
Well, I guess we'll have to see how the rest of the season pans out along the year...

Hello there Dahlings!

So we're into the second month of 2009. It's still cold and boring, but hey! I now have a blog to divert away from that.
I guess Lipsync is just my way of giving my thoughts and opinions of random stuff going on in the world, and as I love to write and have many ideas buzzing around in my head already, so the timing just seems perfect.
So, readers, thats pretty much all of the inspirational introductions I can spew out for now, I'll keep posting, you keep reading!

Toodles!
GlamourPuss