Oprah Supports Obama

A word from Oprah, and you've got success handed to you. Talk show goddess and media champion, there are few people as powerful as this lady.

This week, Oprah worked her power in an interesting way. Never before has she entered the realm of politics in such a direct way.

During her talk with Larry King on Larry King Live, she revealed to King she openly supported Obama and had contributed some funds to his campaign. When asked why she supported Obama, she said she respected him on a personal level and truly 'believes' in him.

Her support isn't about the money but about the publicity this draws for Obama. Anyone familiar with Oprah doesn't have to think too hard about this.

And anyone whose been fortunate to have been touched by Oprah knows this is a tremendous boost to the Obama campaign. But this calls into play an important question. Is Oprah's support real or is it hype?

Why should Oprah, whose never been a staunch political activist before, stake her claim now? Her support could easily prove disastrous if a majority of her viewers supported a different candidate. But she knew exactly what she was doing. And personally, I don't think it's Oprah's place to influence voters. Oprah is entitled to her opinion but she is marketing on her role.

And her role is not Obama's spokesperson.

Oprah should stick to her talk show, her magazine and all the other companies she oversees. Give other candidates a chance. And the ability for Americans to make their own mind.

American Gangster

New Showtimes

BETJ's Chuck Faush Shines With the Stars Five Days a Week

Now you can see nContrast at new weekly showtimes.
Wednesday nights at 10 PM EST with re-airs Thursday through Tuesday. Thursday at 3 AM, Sunday at 5:30 PM, Monday at 2:30 AM and Tuesday at 2 PM

FOXX is Kingdom Come

THE KINGDOM GIVES YOU AN INSIDE LOOK INTO THE REAL WORLD OF TERRORISM.

DIRECTOR: Peter Berg

CAST: Jaime Foxx, Jennifer Garner, Chris Cooper

SUMMARY: “The Kingdom” takes viewers inside the perilous world of terror and shows its devastating affects on the world today. Academy award winner Jaime Foxx stars in the political thriller about terrorist activity in Saudi Arabia. Academy award winner Jaime Foxx leads an FBI criminal investigation into Saudi Arabia to uncover a terrorist plot and is joined by an all-star cast of Jennifer Garner, Chris Cooper and Jason Bateman. When two nations are forced to work together to uncover the madness, they end up finding out they have a lot more in common than they thought.

“YOU REALLY DO SEE THINGS FROM THE OTHER SIDE. IT”S NOT JUST THE GOOD GUYS AND THE BAD GUYS.”
-Jennifer Garner


"MY GOAL IS TO CREATE A FILM THAT IS REALLY THRILLING AND ENGAGING BUT ALSO HAPPENS TO REFLECT THE TIME THAT WE LIVE."
-Peter Berg, director

Fall Movies Coming Soon

THE KINGDOM

Academy award winner Jaime Foxx stars in the upcoming political thriller about terrorist activity in Saudi Arabia.
He joins an all-star cast which includes Jennifer Garner, Chris Cooper and Jason Bateman. “The Kingdom” is a frightening look into the world of terror.

ILLEGAL TENDER

From Two-time Academy Award nominated director and producer John Singleton comes the action crime thriller with Latin flavor “Illegal Tender” about a mother and son who will do anything to protect one another.

MR. BEAN'S HOLIDAY

Rowan Atkinson is back but this time he’s on holiday in the French Riviera where he’s becomes involved in a series of mishaps and strange adventures.

Queen Latifah: Life Support

Queen Latifah shines in Life Support, the HBO Film’s story of how a former drug addict replaces her passion for drugs with becoming an activist for others. In this exclusive behind the scenes interview with Queen Latifah and Director Nelson George, Queen Latifah delves into her character’s inspiration and how the story hits close to home.

“THIS DISEASE AIN’T NO JOKE. AND I’M NOT GOING TO SHUT UP ABOUT IT. I DON’T CARE IF YALL DON’T CARE. IF YALL STOP DYING, I’LL STOP TALKING ABOUT. IN THE MEAN TIME, GOT TO USE YOUR HEADS SISTERS.”

NELSON GEORGE
Life support is based on my family story and the characters are based on my sister, my mother, even based on a couple of my nieces.

QUEEN LATIFAH
A lot of this was like an urban slice of life, you know, and I can relate to a second hand story in a redemption thing. Before her passion might have been drugs but with that passion being removed, that passion went from drugs to preventing drugs and to being an activist and to being a mother. She’s kind of the same person.

NELSON GEORGE
Four or five years ago when I first got the idea to do the film, I really centered it around my sister’s story. I followed her around for a month or two.

NELSON GEORGE
This one event. Everyone on the roof had red balloons, said the name of someone who died and released them.

QUEEN LATIFAH
Andrea and her team are on the front lines of trying to stop people from getting infected with HIV. They know what young people are saying and how they respond to birth control and protection.

When I read the script, it felt like a lot of things I’d seen and experienced.

NELSON GEORGE
When I met her to sit down and talk about the script, she knew the streets that I was talking about in the script. She knew this world, and she knew characters like my sister.

NELSON GEORGE
Though she’s really playful, Latifah’s really dug into some barriers and created some indellible moments, showing both strief and anger.

It’s been interesting to shoot because it’s so much family

QUEEN LATIFAH
This film has taken me through a roller coaster so far because it’s not the terrifying epidemic it was in the mid 80s. It’s like it’s yesterday’s news for a lot of people but it’s not yesterday’s news.

NELSON GEORGE
It’s a big problem today. It’s killing lots of people; it’s altering lives, and it’s preventable. And I’m hoping through this film, we open the dialogue about what’s going on here.



QUEEN LATIFAH
Life Support is based on life force as an outreach agency. And they go in and talk to different communities. It’s rough what they have to go through just to make sure they’ll continue to be funded to save lives.

VMA Coverage

by Dave Kilgo


The VMA's kept their reputation this weekend as a water cooler favorite. I'm not sure if this was because of the unusual amount of controversy but it is definitely being talked about. One thing stood out among all the controversy. This was something people had been dying to witness ever since it was announced. There was also concern that because it's been so long since the one before, is it really a good idea? Not to mention the star has aged profusely since their last performance and could be out of shape.

I am of course talking about the announcement of a new Indiana Jones sequel. It will be called "Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull". I can't imagine how well a crystal skull can manage a kingdom but more power to it.

It's exciting to think about George Lucas' other franchise coming back for another round, but it's also an iffy situation. Don't get me wrong, I am a "die hard" Indiana Jones fan and very excited that something new is coming. Casting Shia Lebeouf (Translation: The Beouf) was a wise pick as Jones' predecessor. It's always economical for a company to use a person they legally bought years ago. Cate Blanchett was also a good choice; I can now assume that given the year this takes place, his new love interest will be Katherine Hepburn or if they're going for more of a fantasy element, Queen Elizabeth. Its definitely a shame that Sean Connery won't be coming back as Indie's dad, but perhaps he's gotten on the bandwagon as well and went off to reprise his role as James Bond (Bond... Gold Bond). Harrison Ford is one of my favorite actors of all time, but it can't feel vital to be playing his dad.

Here's what concerns me though; a big trend right now, other than tepid remakes, is bringing back franchises from past decades. All the CGI in the world can't hide the fact that our action stars have gotten a little older. We've already seen John Mcclain, Rocky Balboa (Rambo is coming) and the Terminator come back. Of the three, I would have to say Willis was the best one, and I think it's because at 52, he's almost 10 years younger than Sly or Arnie. Harrison Ford is 65, so we'll see how that goes. Though our action stars are getting up there, I would much rather see them fighting an imperial walker with... a walker before seeing someone replace them. Bruce Willis was the last choice to play in Die Hard because at the time he was a sitcom star, imagine picking Danny Tanner. Despite all of that, he made John Mcclain a rough neck 90's icon. Harrison Ford wasn't Spielberg's first choice either but can you imagine Tom Selleck as Indie? If these guys think they have another action movie in them, by all means. I'll usually be glad to see it. I'm a firm believer in the cliché, "you're only as old as you feel" from what it looks like, Ford is feeling about 24. Not to mention, Lucas and Spielberg are teaming up again, so I'm not expecting a bad film. Though I love the classics, I am hoping we take the time to create a new action icon before these guys decide to retire. I'm looking at you, Brad Garrett.

In the News.

nContrast Goes Primetime on BETJ

http://thebirminghamtimes.com/news/Article/Article.asp?NewsID=81594&sID=22

Is He the Next Big Thing?

OBAMA: THE NEXT BIG THING. By Elise Seagrest

Barack Obama was born on August 14, 1961 in Hawaii to a diverse family. Obama’s mother, Ann Dunham, grew up in Kansas while his father grew up in a village in Kenya. The two met while attending the University of Hawaii but parted ways not long after Barack’s birth. Barack was raised by his mother in Hawaii and spent a couple of years in Indonesia. Barack eventually moved to New York where he began accomplishing many things that would ultimately lead him to become a strong voice in politics, while at the same time serving as a down-to-earth family man.

After moving to New York, Obama attended Columbia University. Instead of delving into the corporate field right after graduation, Obama moved to Chicago and served as a community organizer with a church group. The main focus of this group was to provide aid to families with poor living conditions because of their low socio-economic status; people whose lives were distraught with violence and unemployment. After the time he spent with these families, Obama realized that in order to truly change the lives of people such as these, reform would need to take place deep within the structure of the nation- to politics and laws that the U.S. is based upon.

Obama went on to Harvard Law School and was awarded a degree in 1991 along with the honor of being the first African-American president of the Harvard Law Review. Obama’s accomplishments did not end here, they were actually just beginning. In 2004 he was elected into the U.S. Senate and thus became the third African-American since the Reconstruction to be elected into this power. While holding his position in the Senate, Obama learned to think with an open mind by having to work with both Democrats and Republicans in efforts to address many of the nation’s problems, such as, the Earned Income Tax Credit program, expansion of early childhood education and law enforcement reforms.

As a presidential candidate, Barack Obama has many points of view on existing issues in the government and nation, as well as propositions to correct these issues. He also has his own opinions of what needs addressing in order to recover the U.S. from the shock that the war in Iraq has caused. Some of the most important issues in the nation that Obama is committed to improving are energy and environment, immigration and the border, his plan to end the Iraq war, and creating a healthcare system that works.

In his plan to improve energy, while at the same time conserving our environment, Obama has and will continue to push for a comprehensive national energy policy. Obama calls for increased research in order to create cleaner, more fuel-efficient energy sources. Obama believes that the fuels used to power automobiles should contain less carbon, which directly contributes to global warming. Obama made a passionate statement while speaking to the University of New Hampshire campus, “I believe that we still have a chance to pass on a planet to our children that is cleaner and safer and more prosperous than we found it,” he goes on to encourage, “This is our generation’s moment to save future generations from global catastrophe.” Clearly Obama feels that the fuel and energy crisis has been long overlooked and that it is up to all American citizens to do their part to make a difference along with government officials.

Barack Obama disagreed with the war in Iraq from the start by claiming that Saddam Hussein posed no imminent threat to the U.S. and that the war would ultimately drain our economy and morale with no certainty of an ending. He says, “I think the war was a tragic mistake and should have never been authorized.” Obama does, however, have a plan to progress actions in Iraq and bring troops home for keeps. Obama feels that his smart judgment of the war will be a good quality to bring to the office of president.

Senator Obama believes that politicians have exploited the immigration issue in order to divide a nation instead of offering a solution. Realistically, the U.S. economy depends on millions of these workers and U.S. borders have actually become less secure since the problem has worsened.

Health care reform is also long overdue in the U.S. and Obama recognizes current health care as “unsustainable.” Not only is he concerned with changing health care forever, but Obama is also raising support now so that he can ensure this change once he is elected. Obama is quite concerned with carrying his plan through Congress and notes that in many previous campaigns plans fade after the election. Although he keeps an open mind about proposed systems, Obama feels that he will most likely support a system that will offer universal coverage and will force efficiencies out of the health care system. He will also support preventive programs such as weight control. Obama also rejects suggestions that higher taxes are required for a new health care system and assures his supporters that he will have a plan drawn up in a couple of months.

Sources:
http://www.barackobama.com

Fashion: What's Your Scent?

CHEMICAL REACTIONS.
By Emmanuella Prival

We're born to smell. And how we smell defines us. That being said, it's important to know that being said it's important to know that scents smell different on every person. The way a scent takes to your body is a question of chemistry. So while your friend smells great in Calvin Klein, it might make you smell more like a gym locker. 

So before you purchase the latest scent, be sure to try it on. Try these tips for picking the scent for you!

How to select a scent

If you're feeling ambitious and want to smell all the scents, go for a card instead of your arm. If you try them all on your arm, you'll be overwhelmed and won't be able to distinguish your favorite scent.

When the person standing in front of the men's cologne section at the department store is ready to spritz and spray, stand back and tell them to spray a card instead. Keep your wrists scent free until later! 

After you've smelled all your scents, try taking a breather and walking around to refresh your scent. You want to give your nose a bit of a rest before making your choice.
With your nose in check, you can now return and try out your scent on you.

Other options

Can't pick one? Try blending scents like jasmine, vanilla or cinnamon. Not only will you drive women wild (vanilla and cinnamon are known to be aphrodisiacs), you get to create your own fragrance. You can purchase these natural scents at The Body Shop.

If you're not in to cologne, you can opt for after shaves and scented soaps. They aren't as potent as cologne but will keep you smelling great.

Keep in mind that if you work in small quarters, it's good to avoid strong scents. Opt for citrus or lemon-based scents, and splash on the stronger fragrances for nights on the town.

A change in personal fragrance is a great way to update and modify your style and look.

EP TOP TEN FAVORITES: Top 10 Men's Cologne

Fragrance isn't just for girls - guys can smell good too. Here are scents for our generation.
1. Cool Water Deep
The fragrance is a woody aromatic. Sensual, masculine and fresh.
2. Lacoste Red by Lacoste for Men
Fragrance Notes: Green orange, apple, maclura, thuja, icy wood, jasmine, cedar, patchouli, white musk.
3. Obsession for Men
Contains amber, vanilla, orange blossom and sandalwood.
4. Eternity for men
Lavender, jasmine and amber, blended with notes of rosewood, vetiver and sandalwood.
5. Bvlgari BLV for Men
Woodsy spices are combined with rich, oriental notes to produce a cool refrshing scent.
6. Swiss Army
Sweet spice fragrance for men.
7. BLACK for Men
Mixture of fresh scents including mint, fresh fruits, spices, and watermint.
8. CK One Summer by Calvin Klein
Launched in 2004, Calvin Klein introduced its unisex scent for the Summer.
9. Curve for Men
Spice scent with lavender, clove, and bergamot.
10. JOOP!
Spicy oriental fragrance for men.


 

EP's Movie Favorite: "Talk to Me"

Never underestimate a man with something to say.

DIRECTOR: Kasi Lemmons

CAST: Don Cheadle, Cedric the Entertainer, Martin Sheen, Vernell P. Watson, Mike Epps, Chiwetel Ejiofor

SUMMARY: “Talk to Me” is the story of how one voice shocks a nation. Inspired by a true story, Don Cheadle plays 1960s’ famed radio personality Ralph Waldo “Petey” Greene Jr., who upon his release from prison talks his way onto radio and takes the nation by storm.

The ex-con’s outrageous personality and spirit electrify listeners in the midst of America’s great racial divide. “Petey” speaks openly
about race and power and isn’t afraid to ‘tell it like it is.’ With the support of his upstanding program director Mike Dewey (Chiwetel Ejiofor)
and Petey’s vivacious girlfriend Vernell Watson (Taraji Henson), Petey empowers fans and his own life.

nContrast

Welcome to Epiphany Magazine's blog! Epiphany Magazine is the sister magazine of today's hot urban entertainment show nContrast. Epiphany goes more in-depth with interviews, profiles and stories on the latest fashion, style, music, movies, food, insight, travel and more. Be sure to check here for updates on Epiphany's top stories.

MEET MS. HALLE BERRY

Epiphany's Chuck Faush Interviews super star Halle Berry on her latest movie "A Perfect Stranger"

Chuck: So people will go to any length to forgive and forget?

Halle: I don't know about that but I do know that people will go to any length to keep a secret and hide who they really are from the world. I think everybody does it.

Chuck: So we all have secrets then?

Halle: I think so.

Chuck: Why do we do this? Why do we hide them and keep going?

Halle: Think about when you first meet someone. Say you're on a date, and you meet somebody for the first time. Wouldn't you say it's true that most people send their representatives? The real them is at home in bed somewhere. We start off hiding.

Chuck: In the Perfect Stranger, are you caught up with Bruce Willis character or are you caught up with using Bruce Willis' character to get what you want?

Halle: She's masterfully using him for what she wants but making him believe that she just might be interested. What did you think about that?

Chuck: I thought I had it figured out at every turn. Most times you get down to the last three or four minutes and you know exactly where it's going. And in this, you have absolutely no clue.

Halle: (exclaims) Yes!

Chuck: It was a good thing. When it was over, I sat there stunned. There were so many twists and turns all the way through but the thing that struck me was that your character was almost always in the same predicament all the time.

Halle: (nods her head) And even in the end, you get the feeling that the cycle never ends. It doesn't end for her so she will remain the very thing that she was trying to free herself from. It starts all over again.

Chuck: So the back and forth thing wasn't just between you and Bruce's character but between you and Giavanni's character.

Halle: Yes. All three of us. We were all sort of interconnected in a way.

Chuck: So is that a good or a bad thing?

Halle: It depends on what you consider really bad.

Chuck: Oh come on.

Halle: (laughs) It's really like that. It never stops.

Chuck: So it continues but continues in a good way.

Halle: I think so. I think my character did what she had to do. She uncovered what she needed to uncover and she exposed what she needed to expose and at the end of the day, she's a survivor.