Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
lundi 27 février 2017
How to Hack the Caffeinated Coffee Butter That's Launching in Japan
Coffee butter has arrived to help you become a morning person, and no, we're not talking about Bulletproof Coffee, which is coffee made with butter. We're talking about butter made with coffee grounds, otherwise known as spreadable caffeine made for putting on your morning toast. The internet is buzzing about the coffee butter launching in Japan, and people are lucky enough to be able to buy it in stores there starting in March.
The spread, pictured above, is called Snow Brand Coffee Soft and is made by the Japanese company Megmilk Snow Brand Company. The company is known for its popular coffee, and to celebrate the milestone of selling the coffee for 55 years now, it's debuting this unusual butter. "The milky coffee will now be making its debut as a spread, designed to be used on bread and toast just like butter or margarine," according to Japan's Rocket News.
While we're sure this particular brand tastes uniquely awesome, there's a way to make coffee butter for yourself at home if you're hoping to re-create it. According to this recipe for homemade coffee butter from Get in My Mouf, all you need is heavy cream, ground coffee, powdered sugar, salt, and a cheese cloth. We have a feeling this buttery spread would be perfect with Japanese chocolate slices on toast. Here's to having a new coffee-related reason to hop out of bed!
Yeah, Emma Stone and Leonardo DiCaprio Would Actually Make a Pretty Cute Couple
Emma Stone had a huge night at the Oscars on Sunday, taking home her first Academy Award for best actress and sharing a handful of adorable moments with her friend and La La Land costar Ryan Gosling. In addition to thanking Ryan during her acceptance speech and meeting up with him backstage, Emma also had a cute encounter with Leonardo DiCaprio, who presented her with her Oscar on stage. Their chemistry both on stage and behind the scenes caught our attention almost immediately - wouldn't they be really cute together? Like, together together? We know, we know: Leo is currently dating Sports Illustrated model Nina Agdal, and Emma's ex Andrew Garfield was front and center to see her big win, but we can't help but ship them a little.
Congratulations to This Year's First-Time Oscar Winners!
All of this year's Oscar winners deserve a round of applause (particularly the men and women behind Moonlight), but we're especially excited to congratulate this year's first-time winners. Surprisingly, that includes all of the acting winners, plus some other major categories. Take a look to see which winners scored their very first Oscar and what else (if anything) they had been nominated for!
It May Seem Impossible, but Adriana Lima Wore an Even Sexier Dress to Her Second Oscars Party
After watching the Academy Awards at Elton John's annual viewing party, Adriana Lima promptly changed absolutely everything about her entire look and slipped into something even sexier. While the model opted for a sleek Elisabetta Franchi number for the first party she attended, she wore a glimmering Labourjoisie gown to the Vanity Fair afterparty. Adriana accessorized her look with a Lee Savage clutch, René Caovilla heels, and breathtaking earrings from Chopard that somehow managed to make her eyes look even more electrifying. Look ahead for pictures from her second Oscars appearance.
Yeah, Emma Stone and Leonardo DiCaprio Would Actually Make a Pretty Cute Couple
Emma Stone had a huge night at the Oscars on Sunday, taking home her first Academy Award for best actress and sharing a handful of adorable moments with her friend and La La Land costar Ryan Gosling. In addition to thanking Ryan during her acceptance speech and meeting up with him backstage, Emma also had a cute encounter with Leonardo DiCaprio, who presented her with her Oscar on stage. Their chemistry both on stage and behind the scenes caught our attention almost immediately - wouldn't they be really cute together? Like, together together? We know, we know: Leo is currently dating Sports Illustrated model Nina Agdal, and Emma's ex Andrew Garfield was front and center to see her big win, but we can't help but ship them a little.
Dolce & Gabbana Delivers a Collection For Modern-Day Royals
There are runways and there are fashion shows, of which Dolce & Gabbana's Fall '17 production is certainly the latter. The design house turned to influencers, Instagram celebrities, friends of the brand, and Hollywood legacies to cast its latest catwalk. You'll spot bloggers like Aimee Song, fashion girls like Harley Viera-Newton, and an actual princess, Princess Olympia of Greece, walking the runway - our modern-day royals, if you will.
Likewise, the clothes were made to suit the kings and queens of social media and of the fashion world. Armed with attention-getting cat-print robes, patchwork jeans, sheer dresses, embroidered tuxedos, and (naturally) crowns, this collection is crafted for the girls and guys who either have a following to wow - or, perhaps, are looking for it.
Kate Mara's All Dressed Down, but Her Sparkling Engagement Ring Can't Be Missed
An engagement ring is the one piece of jewelry that'll match every outfit you'll ever wear. Even if it's your postgym attire. Just ask Kate Mara, who stepped out with her diamond ring after a workout in Beverly Hills, CA. The actress recently got engaged to Jamie Bell, and we've been waiting for a glimpse of the ring.
Although it is easy to glance over Kate's casual outfit - a David Bowie tee, cardigan, leggings, and flats - we took notice of the stylish details like her Céline bag and oh, of course, her engagement ring. It shone brightly on her fingers and made a statement all on its own. When you have a sparkler that beautiful on, the rest of your outfit kind of doesn't matter. Zoom in for a closer look on this birthday girl's ring, then browse similar options ahead.
Street Style Accessories of MFW: The Accent Pieces Heard 'Round The World
Greetings from Milan, where the sidewalks are brimming with inspired and creative style pairings in shoes and bags. We embrace every bit of this city's sleek and streamlined grace, qualities we constantly strive to emulate. And it's no coincidence, then, that we're as awestruck and inspired by the styles worn outside the catwalks as we are by what's being worn on them. At times it seems unattainable, though as evidenced by the streets of Milan, it's happening. For that, we'll gladly take our cues from these Italian all-stars that are sweeping the streets. Our advice to you? Stay tuned all week for major fashion inspiration.
This Is What Happens When You Don't Drink Enough Water
Besides the fact that you'd literally die without it, there are many, MANY imperative reasons to drink water frequently, every single day. It starts out pretty mild - you might feel thirsty and have a dry mouth. But the long-term effects of not drinking enough water not only have an effect on your weight (in a bad way), but they're also extremely dangerous and life-threatening. Here's what happens to your body.
Related: Signs You're Dehydrated During a Workout
Milder Symptoms
Even mild dehydration has strong effects. Here's how you'll feel with a lack of H2O (hint: it's really not fun).
- Fatigue, tiredness, sleepiness
- Headache
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Mood change, irritability, increased anxiety
- Sunken eyes
- Shriveled skin
- Muscle cramps
- Joint aches
Severe Symptoms
If things get worse, so do your symptoms. These are the "go to the hospital" signs.
- Low blood pressure, with a rapid heartbeat
- Fever
- Delirium, unconsciousness
- Severe diarrhea and/or vomiting
- Inability to keep fluids down
Latent Effects
Consistently not drinking enough water for an extended period of time has its effect as well. Although you may brush off the milder side effects, your body is still suffering - and several of these have a significant bearing on weight gain.
- Low water, slow metabolism. Your body's ability to remove waste and detoxify is inhibited. In addition, your metabolism is slower without water. One study found that drinking 16 ounces of water daily increases your metabolic rate by 30 percent. Guys. That's literally ONE standard-size water bottle. JUST DRINK IT.
- Increased hunger. When you're somewhat dehydrated, your body confuses it for hunger, causing you to eat when you don't need to. Read: weight gain.
- Slowed circulation, irregular temperature. Your CV system suffers, and your equilibrium is totally out of whack.
- Digestion problems. That constipation we talked about becomes a regular thing. Not fun. Also not great for weight loss.
- General fatigue. Same goes for your energy levels. You'll constantly feel tired, unable (or unwilling) to exercise, and unable to concentrate.
- Increased blood sugar. Your body needs water to break down sugar. If you're diabetic, this is especially dangerous.
Severe Long-Term Effects
Now for the worst of it. Yes, it's terrible that dehydration can make you gain weight (or keep you from losing it), but there are some bigger issues at hand. If you're truly neglecting your water intake, this should likely help you get on track. Here's what happens to your body when you don't get enough water.
- Heat injury
- Brain swelling
- Seizures
- Hypovolemic shock
- Kidney failure
- Coma and death
Now go get yourself a water bottle and FILL. IT. UP.
Emma Roberts Had the Cutest Reaction to Matching With This Star on the Red Carpet
Emma Roberts and Michelle Williams didn't walk the Oscars red carpet together. The Scream Queens star went solo (meeting up with fiancé Evan Peters later at Vanity Fair's Oscars afterparty) while Michelle arrived to the show with BFF Busy Phillips. Since the two weren't spotted on camera together, it was easy to miss their #twinning moment, but we kept an eye out. Once we saw Emma's black and white Armani Privé gown, we noticed it was practically identical to Michelle's dress.
Though Michelle's Louis Vuitton number was a halter style and had a bow detail, the two bared a striking resemblance. In fact, the two stars, who eventually ran into each other, even acknowledged their coordinating looks with a cute Instagram video. Adorable right? Suffice it to say, this was probably the cutest style moment we've seen from the night. Read on to see their matching gowns below.
Emma Roberts and Julia Roberts Matched at the Oscars, and You Totally Missed It
Not only did Emma Roberts look beautiful at the Oscars, she wore a recycled Armani Privé gown from 2015, as part of the "Green Dress" initiative. It was certainly one of the most glamorous and classic on the red carpet, thanks to an ivory and black color palette and intricate embroidery.
Emma completed her outfit with Atelier Swarovski jewels and a delicate clutch, posing for a few gorgeous shots before the ceremony. But one photo stood out in particular: an Instagram Emma posted standing in front of a portrait of her aunt, Julia Roberts. We couldn't help but notice the similarities between Emma's dress and the Valentino design Julia wore to accept her Best Actress award for Erin Brockovich in 2001.
Emma revealed to Ryan Seacrest that she encouraged Julia to wear "the skunk dress" 16 years ago before Julia left the house. In fact, "the skunk dress" was vintage too, which means Emma and Julia have quite the same sense of style. Scroll to compare both ensembles, which will make you second-guess the saying "like mother, like daughter." It's more like, "like aunt, like niece," don't you think?
Meryl Streep's Reaction to That Oscars Mistake Will Make You Laugh For Days
And in that moment we were all Meryl🐐 #BestPicture #Oscars http://pic.twitter.com/ycreQ0X6jK
- Michelle Hoehne (@michellehoehne) February 27, 2017
One of the most awkward moments in Oscars history went down on Sunday night when the wrong film was crowned best picture. After the cast and crew of La La Land took the stage to accept their award, the show's producers quickly rushed out to correct their mistake: Moonlight was actually the real winner. The internet and celebrities reacted with shock and a bit of heartbreak over the mix-up, and a few stars with prime seats also couldn't believe their eyes. While Ryan Gosling laughed his way through it on stage, Meryl Streep (like Emma Stone) looked incredibly shocked from the front row. As people stood up to applaud Moonlight, the actress gave one of the best "What just happened?" faces we've ever seen. Now excuse us while we go make this into a meme . . .
This Is What Happens When You Don't Drink Enough Water
Besides the fact that you'd literally die without it, there are many, MANY imperative reasons to drink water frequently, every single day. It starts out pretty mild - you might feel thirsty and have a dry mouth. But the long-term effects of not drinking enough water not only have an effect on your weight (in a bad way), but they're also extremely dangerous and life-threatening. Here's what happens to your body.
Related: Signs You're Dehydrated During a Workout
Milder Symptoms
Even mild dehydration has strong effects. Here's how you'll feel with a lack of H2O (hint: it's really not fun).
- Fatigue, tiredness, sleepiness
- Headache
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Mood change, irritability, increased anxiety
- Sunken eyes
- Shriveled skin
- Muscle cramps
- Joint aches
Severe Symptoms
If things get worse, so do your symptoms. These are the "go to the hospital" signs.
- Low blood pressure, with a rapid heartbeat
- Fever
- Delirium, unconsciousness
- Severe diarrhea and/or vomiting
- Inability to keep fluids down
Latent Effects
Consistently not drinking enough water for an extended period of time has its effect as well. Although you may brush off the milder side effects, your body is still suffering - and several of these have a significant bearing on weight gain.
- Low water, slow metabolism. Your body's ability to remove waste and detoxify is inhibited. In addition, your metabolism is slower without water. One study found that drinking 16 ounces of water daily increases your metabolic rate by 30 percent. Guys. That's literally ONE standard-size water bottle. JUST DRINK IT.
- Increased hunger. When you're somewhat dehydrated, your body confuses it for hunger, causing you to eat when you don't need to. Read: weight gain.
- Slowed circulation, irregular temperature. Your CV system suffers, and your equilibrium is totally out of whack.
- Digestion problems. That constipation we talked about becomes a regular thing. Not fun. Also not great for weight loss.
- General fatigue. Same goes for your energy levels. You'll constantly feel tired, unable (or unwilling) to exercise, and unable to concentrate.
- Increased blood sugar. Your body needs water to break down sugar. If you're diabetic, this is especially dangerous.
Severe Long-Term Effects
Now for the worst of it. Yes, it's terrible that dehydration can make you gain weight (or keep you from losing it), but there are some bigger issues at hand. If you're truly neglecting your water intake, this should likely help you get on track. Here's what happens to your body when you don't get enough water.
- Heat injury
- Brain swelling
- Seizures
- Hypovolemic shock
- Kidney failure
- Coma and death
Now go get yourself a water bottle and FILL. IT. UP.
Meryl Streep's Reaction to That Oscars Mistake Will Make You Laugh For Days
And in that moment we were all Meryl🐐 #BestPicture #Oscars http://pic.twitter.com/ycreQ0X6jK
- Michelle Hoehne (@michellehoehne) February 27, 2017
One of the most awkward moments in Oscars history went down on Sunday night when the wrong film was crowned best picture. After the cast and crew of La La Land took the stage to accept their award, the show's producers quickly rushed out to correct their mistake: Moonlight was actually the real winner. The internet and celebrities reacted with shock and a bit of heartbreak over the mix-up, and a few stars with prime seats also couldn't believe their eyes. While Ryan Gosling laughed his way through it on stage, Meryl Streep (like Emma Stone) looked incredibly shocked from the front row. As people stood up to applaud Moonlight, the actress gave one of the best "What just happened?" faces we've ever seen. Now excuse us while we go make this into a meme . . .
Here's Where Andrew Garfield Was Sitting During Emma Stone's Acceptance Speech
Blink and you might have missed a quick glimpse of Andrew Garfield as Emma Stone accepted the Academy Award for best actress for La La Land. If, like us, you were eager to see his inevitably sweet reaction to her big win, don't worry: we've got you covered. As Emma thanked her friends and family, Andrew was front and center to experience her special moment.
The former couple have shared a handful of moments as they've run into each other throughout award season, including a reunion at the AFI Awards and a hug ahead of the BAFTAs.
43 Gorgeously Glam Beauty Looks From the Vanity Fair Oscars Afterparty
It sounds wild, but after stepping out on the Oscars red carpet, stars aren't done getting glam for the evening. In fact, if you'd consider the hair and makeup a 10 out of 10 at the Academy Awards, then brace yourself: they've turned it up to 11 for the Vanity Fair Oscars afterparty. Prepare to be blown away by Emily Ratajkowski's shimmering and seductive mint shadow, Lily Collins's negative space cat eye, and more stunning beauty style when you read on.
Here's Where Andrew Garfield Was Sitting During Emma Stone's Acceptance Speech
Blink and you might have missed a quick glimpse of Andrew Garfield as Emma Stone accepted the Academy Award for best actress for La La Land. If, like us, you were eager to see his inevitably sweet reaction to her big win, don't worry: we've got you covered. As Emma thanked her friends and family, Andrew was front and center to experience her special moment.
The former couple have shared a handful of moments as they've run into each other throughout award season, including a reunion at the AFI Awards and a hug ahead of the BAFTAs.
Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban Are Cute Even When They Don't Know Cameras Are Watching
It's no secret that Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban love to show affection for the cameras. In fact, they've been making out and generally being adorable on red carpets since they first started dating back in 2005. Sunday's Oscars was no different as the couple brought the heat on their way into the Dolby Theater - Keith even grabbed Nicole's butt! But what might be even cuter is that the duo keep the PDA going even when they don't know for sure cameras are pointed their way. Keith and Nicole had their arms lovingly intertwined during the show, held hands backstage, and locked eyes more than once when they weren't focused on the stage. If that's not proof of true love, we don't know what is.
Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban Are Cute Even When They Don't Know Cameras Are Watching
It's no secret that Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban love to show affection for the cameras. In fact, they've been making out and generally being adorable on red carpets since they first started dating back in 2005. Sunday's Oscars was no different as the couple brought the heat on their way into the Dolby Theater - Keith even grabbed Nicole's butt! But what might be even cuter is that the duo keep the PDA going even when they don't know for sure cameras are pointed their way. Keith and Nicole had their arms lovingly intertwined during the show, held hands backstage, and locked eyes more than once when they weren't focused on the stage. If that's not proof of true love, we don't know what is.
Watch Every Unbelievable Second of That Massive Oscars Best Picture Mix-Up Unfold
Biggest #Oscars mix up of all time? Watch the full play-by-play: http://pic.twitter.com/RT2zGiR798
- Hollywood Reporter (@THR) February 27, 2017
On Sunday night the Oscars ended with an unexpectedly shocking bang when best picture presenters Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway somehow announced the wrong winner, La La Land, instead of the true victor, Moonlight. As you can see in the video above, the cast and production team of La La Land were onstage making their emotional acceptance speeches for a solid two minutes before producer Jordan Horowitz finally took the mic to announce that their film had not won. "Guys, I'm sorry, no, there's a mistake," he said. "Moonlight, you guys won best picture. This is not a joke. Moonlight has won best picture." He then held up the real envelope with the winner inside for the cameras, which clearly read Moonlight.
Although Beatty has been getting the brunt of the blame for reading the wrong name, Dunaway is actually the one who announces La La Land. On top of that, it's obvious that he realized they didn't have the right envelope as soon as he opened it (zoomed-in photos show the envelope was embossed with the words 'best actress in a leading role'), which is why he paused and Dunaway revealed the "winner" instead. "I opened the envelope and it said 'Emma Stone, La La Land,'" he explained to the audience while the Moonlight team made their way up to the stage. "That's why I took such a long pause and looked at Faye, and at you. I wasn't trying to be funny." The accounting firm that oversees Oscars votes, Price Waterhouse Cooper, has since released a statement regarding the incident, which will no doubt live on in infamy as one of the most insane Oscars moments ever.
Things Got Awkward When 1 Girl Told Her Teacher Her Dad Has "Lots of Weed" at Home
When Skylar told her teacher that there's "lots of weed at home" and that her dad even grows it, she technically wasn't lying. However, as parents of little kids know, they often say the darnedest things, and even when they are speaking the truth, you can't always take what they say at face value. Although Skylar was correct in her innocent observations about the abundance of green plants at her home, it was her delivery that left her dad and teacher having an awkward conversation.
"Weed is not good for you and we have a lot of it," Skylar said in a video captured by her dad, Dax Holt, as they discussed the incident. Dax shared the video of their chat on Facebook with the perfect caption.
My child's teacher: "So Skylar tells me you guys have a ton of weed at home."
Me: "Umm."
Teacher: "She said you're growing it."
Me:
When Dax asked Skylar if she told the school that they have a lot of weed at their house, she very seriously replied, "Yeah, a lot of it. Weed is not good for you because weed is stuff that is grass, but it's not grass because it's weed."
To clear the air, Dax asked her to explain what she meant and to show the camera. With a simple nod of her head, she headed outside and began pointing out weeds in the garden and all around the lawn. Kids certainly have a knack for putting parents in awkward situations!
4 Celebrities Who Won Oscars Night With the Most "Liked" Photos on Instagram
The Oscars aren't only about the awards; it's also a show of glamorous beauty looks and stunning dresses. But, it's the moments we don't see on the red carpet that end up winning the hearts of all of us watching at home, like the photos celebrities put up on Instagram. Ahead, you'll see the most "liked" photos on Instagram of Hollywood's biggest night. Chances are, you won't guess which celebrity has the most "likes" of the night!
Halle Berry's Oscars Night, From Steaming Up the Red Carpet to Stripping Down For a Swim
Halle Berry graced the Oscars on Sunday night, 15 years after she won the best actress award - and became the first black woman to do so. The 50-year old actress made a stunning arrival on the red carpet in a Versace gown that looked even more beautiful as she graced the stage to present Damien Chazelle with his best director trophy. She switched into a shorter, sexier Versace number for the Vanity Fair afterparty, where she mingled with Moonlight writer Tarell Alvin McCraney. After heading home from the bash, Halle posted a video of herself slipping out of her dress and diving into her pool naked, set appropriately to the tune of Bruno Mars's "Versace on the Floor." Follow Halle's night when you scroll through now.
Halle Berry's Oscars Night, From Steaming Up the Red Carpet to Stripping Down For a Swim
Halle Berry graced the Oscars on Sunday night, 15 years after she won the best actress award - and became the first black woman to do so. The 50-year old actress made a stunning arrival on the red carpet in a Versace gown that looked even more beautiful as she graced the stage to present Damien Chazelle with his best director trophy. She switched into a shorter, sexier Versace number for the Vanity Fair afterparty, where she mingled with Moonlight writer Tarell Alvin McCraney. After heading home from the bash, Halle posted a video of herself slipping out of her dress and diving into her pool naked, set appropriately to the tune of Bruno Mars's "Versace on the Floor." Follow Halle's night when you scroll through now.
Mindy Kaling and BJ Novak Made Our Kelly and Ryan Dreams Come True at the Oscars
Mindy Kaling and BJ Novak set The Office fandom's collective hearts aflutter on Oscars night by attending the Vanity Fair Oscar Party as a pair. Mindy uploaded several pictures of the two throughout the night, and - almost as if channeling her Kelly Kapoor counterpart - one particularly tender photo features Mindy staring adorably at BJ. The duo clearly enjoyed a wonderful night of industry fun, and we had just as much fun reliving The Office days vicariously through their snaps. Read on to see their sweet snaps, then settle in for a nostalgia-fueled marathon of the show.
Mindy Kaling and BJ Novak Made Our Kelly and Ryan Dreams Come True at the Oscars
Mindy Kaling and BJ Novak set The Office fandom's collective hearts aflutter on Oscars night by attending the Vanity Fair Oscar Party as a pair. Mindy uploaded several pictures of the two throughout the night, and - almost as if channeling her Kelly Kapoor counterpart - one particularly tender photo features Mindy staring adorably at BJ. The duo clearly enjoyed a wonderful night of industry fun, and we had just as much fun reliving The Office days vicariously through their snaps. Read on to see their sweet snaps, then settle in for a nostalgia-fueled marathon of the show.
Oscars, Schmoscars - Ariana Grande Just Dropped a Sexy New Video!
It's been nearly a year since Ariana Grande released Dangerous Woman, but she just recently dropped the ninth track, "Everyday" as a single. In the midst of Oscar madness, Grande (along with featured artist Future) posted a sexy music video for the song. Fair warning: there is a LOT of making out in this video - but it's not from Grande. Take a look, and check out her video for "My Favorite Part," with Mac Miller.
How a Duplicate Best Actress Card Ended Up in Warren Beatty's Hand
By now, you probably know that the end of this year's Oscars was overshadowed by a tragic mistake. Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway had been selected to present the award for best picture but mistakenly gave the award to La La Land instead of Moonlight, the rightful winner. So, what happened? We know Warren was handed the envelope for best lead actress, with Emma Stone as the winner. "I opened the envelope and it said Emma Stone, La La Land," Beatty said on stage. "That's why I took such a long look at Faye and at you. I wasn't trying to be funny." Stone, on the other hand, claimed she was holding her winners card the whole time. That means there's only one explanation: Beatty was holding a duplicate.
Is that possible? Could an additional best actress card have been printed by mistake? We did some digging and found a pretty interesting answer. Actually, every single winner has a matching set of cards. In 2016, the New York Times interviewed PricewaterhouseCoopers partner Brian Cullinan - PwC is the accounting firm that officially partners with the Academy and tallies all the votes - and explained why this happens. "In an undisclosed location, the partners tabulate votes and stuff two sets of winning envelopes, partly as another security measure and also to aid the show's flow. Stationed with their signature briefcases on opposite sides of the stage, either Cullinan or Ruiz can dispense envelopes to presenters. At the end of the evening, each accountant will have given out about half of the envelopes."
This means that Emma Stone's best actress envelope was likely given out on one side of the stage while one of the PwC partners mistakenly handed Beatty the duplicate envelope on the other side of the stage. Considering how the PwC issued an apology after the whole snafu, this is the most plausible explanation.
Trader Joe's Is Recalling Its Applesauce For 1 Scary Reason
Trader Joe's is voluntarily recalling its apple sauce because the jars could potentially contain pieces of glass in the product.
The products affected by the recall include the following:
- Trader Joe's First Crush Unsweetened Gavenstein Apple Sauce that have a "best before" date through Aug. 8, 2018
- Trader Joe's Organic Unsweetened Apple Sauce with a "best before" date through Oct. 6, 2018
- Trader Joe's All Natural Unsweetened Apple Sauce with a "best before" date through Dec. 16, 2018, in certain stores only
You can find the "best before" date on the top of the lid. According to Trader Joe's, all of the affected products have been removed from store shelves and destroyed. If this is one of your favorite snacks from the grocery chain, you can learn more about the recall - and how to get a refund - on Trader Joe's site.
The Spring Superfoods a Holistic Health Practitioner Wants You to Eat
Fresh, seasonal, and super - these Spring superfoods may seem ordinary but are anything but. Loaded with antioxidants, immune-supporting nutrients, and even supporting in weight loss, look to nature to dictate what you should be eating right now!
The Spring Superfoods a Holistic Health Practitioner Wants You to Eat
Fresh, seasonal, and super - these Spring superfoods may seem ordinary but are anything but. Loaded with antioxidants, immune-supporting nutrients, and even supporting in weight loss, look to nature to dictate what you should be eating right now!
The 9 Most Memorable Oscar Blunders of All Time
The Academy Awards is usually Hollywood's most dignified celebration, but everyone makes mistakes sometimes. This year, the wrong film was awarded best picture - momentarily, at least. La La Land's filmmakers got halfway through their acceptance speech when it was revealed that Moonlight was the real winner. It was an embarrassing moment for literally every person involved, and it's by far the biggest "oops" moment that has ever happened at the Oscars . . . but it's not the only one. Take a look to see the most memorable slip-ups that have ever happened at the big show!
A Group of Storm Chasers Paid Tribute to Twister Actor Bill Paxton in a Beautiful Way
Bill Paxton tragically passed away at age 61 this week due to complications from surgery. The iconic Hollywood actor is known for his role in films like Apollo 13, Titanic, and Twister, and on Sunday, he got a fitting tribute from a group of fans. Bill, who played a former weather researcher and storm chaser in 1996's Twister, was remembered by a group of real-life storm chasers when they lit up "Tornado Alley" with his initials by coordinating their GPS locations. If you remember the film (honestly, it's a classic, so how could you not?), Bill's character attempts to study the inside structure of a tornado in order to produce a more advanced storm warning system. Wherever Bill is now, we sure he's extremely proud.
The storm chaser community around these parts are pretty awesome. RIP Bill Paxton. http://pic.twitter.com/IfC15s3D6v
- Colleen Wilson (@LeenPhotog) February 26, 2017
A Group of Storm Chasers Paid Tribute to Twister Actor Bill Paxton in a Beautiful Way
Bill Paxton tragically passed away at age 61 this week due to complications from surgery. The iconic Hollywood actor is known for his role in films like Apollo 13, Titanic, and Twister, and on Sunday, he got a fitting tribute from a group of fans. Bill, who played a former weather researcher and storm chaser in 1996's Twister, was remembered by a group of real-life storm chasers when they lit up "Tornado Alley" with his initials by coordinating their GPS locations. If you remember the film (honestly, it's a classic, so how could you not?), Bill's character attempts to study the inside structure of a tornado in order to produce a more advanced storm warning system. Wherever Bill is now, we sure he's extremely proud.
The storm chaser community around these parts are pretty awesome. RIP Bill Paxton. http://pic.twitter.com/IfC15s3D6v
- Colleen Wilson (@LeenPhotog) February 26, 2017
We La La Love Everything About Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling's Night at the Oscars
Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling just might be Hollywood's cutest costars. The La La Land actors, who both scored Oscar nominations for their work in the romantic musical, continued to make us jealous of their BFF status at the big award show on Sunday night. Although Ryan didn't win in the best actor category, Emma took home the best actress trophy and made sure to give her beloved costar a sweet shout-out during her acceptance speech. Later on, the duo handled the best picture mix-up between La La Land and Moonlight with aplomb (after enduring a brutal Oscars-themed round of "Mean Tweets," they were clearly ready for anything), each giving actor Mahershala Ali a big hug.
An Upscale, Trader Joe's-Like Grocery Store Is Coming to America
Lidl, a German supermarket chain, plans to open 100 stores in the East Coast by mid-2018, Business Insider reports. Though this isn't a household name in America, Lidl is a direct competitor to Aldi, another German discount grocery chain who owns Trader Joe's. Given the popularity of both brands in the States, it makes perfect sense that Lidl would expand to the US.
However, the Lidl grocery stores opening in America won't look anything like they do in Europe. Though in Germany, the UK, and 24 other European nations, Lidl positions itself as a discount grocery chain, Lidl stores in America will be "[u]nlike Aldi . . . the Lidl will be a hybrid similar to Trader Joe's or Harris Teeter, but closer to a Trader Joe's," according to a company presentation obtained by BI. "We will sell high-end brands, quality not quantity, best products only." In other words, Lidl is setting itself up as an upscale Trader Joe's. There will be locally sourced products, wine, and coffee. While we don't have an exact idea of what products will be stocked on store shelves, here's an idea, based on Lidl's Instagram account.
You can expect the first 20 stores to open this Summer in Virgina, North Carolina, and South Carolina. And if you're not in the East Coast, the chain may eventually open as many as 600 stores in the US. So, are you intrigued by this new grocery store?
We La La Love Everything About Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling's Night at the Oscars
Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling just might be Hollywood's cutest costars. The La La Land actors, who both scored Oscar nominations for their work in the romantic musical, continued to make us jealous of their BFF status at the big award show on Sunday night. Although Ryan didn't win in the best actor category, Emma took home the best actress trophy and made sure to give her beloved costar a sweet shout-out during her acceptance speech. Later on, the duo handled the best picture mix-up between La La Land and Moonlight with aplomb (after enduring a brutal Oscars-themed round of "Mean Tweets," they were clearly ready for anything), each giving actor Mahershala Ali a big hug.
Could Mace Windu Be Supreme Leader Snoke? This Theory Is Very Convincing
Image Source: Everett Collection
When it comes to the newest Star Wars trilogy, so much is still shrouded in mystery. Since watching 2015's Episode VII (The Force Awakens), our primary focus has been on the main character, Rey. The world at large couldn't stop theorizing about the identity of her parents. Now that we know Episode VIII has been titled The Last Jedi, our minds are spinning even more trying to figure out who the title is referring to. Among all of these questions, one even larger mystery seems to linger: we're talking about the identity of Supreme Leader Snoke. As we consider the suspects, one new theory has come totally out of left field. What if Mace Windu, played by Samuel L. Jackson in Episode I, Episode II, and Episode III, is the mysterious new villain? Let's break down the logic behind the claim.
Mace Windu Might Still Be Alive
Jackson stated in a Twitter Q&A in June 2016 that he thinks Mace Windu is alive. "In my mind, he's alive. [Jedi] can fall incredibly high distances and not die." It's worth noting that Mace Windu loses a hand and experiences the full impact of Palpatine's Force lightning before he's flung out of a window to his death. That said, no Jedi has ever died in the series from any of those three types of injury. In fact, some characters have survived falls of even greater distances. If Mace Windu doesn't die in Episode III, there are unlimited options for where he could be.
But How Could Mace Become as Disfigured as Snoke?
As is clearly evidenced in that very same scene, the reason Palpatine becomes so deformed is because of his own Force lightning deflected back at him. It stands to reason that Windu could develop the same horrifying scars and pallor from Palpatine's attack. Snoke's huge head scar could be from Windu's great fall. And, hey, they're both bald. It's worth noting.
Image Source: Disney
Wouldn't He Be Old as Hell, Though?
Yes, but that doesn't mean his survival up through the new trilogy is out of the question. After all, Snoke does say he witnessed the rise and fall of the Galactic Empire, meaning he was around during the first two trilogies. This means he could very well be Mace Windu.
Mace Windu Is in Touch With the Dark Side
Mace Windu notably harnesses the power of the dark side, even in spite of the fact that he's a Jedi knight. Even his purple lightsaber is an indicator that he straddles both sides. The trademark blue of the Jedi could mix with the red of the Sith to get this very color.
Mace Windu's Motive For Revenge
So, why would he turn to the dark side? Well, the fact that he's betrayed by Anakin Skywalker may be reason enough. We know Snoke is determined to find Luke Skywalker, and using Anakin's betrayal as a motivating force would explain why. Plus! If you subscribe to the theory that Rey is actually a Palpatine, it strengthens the argument and explains why Snoke is so obsessed with her. After all, Mace Windu would want to get back at Palpatine for everything he does in that supposed death scene.
There are even more layers to this, but that's the gist. If you're interested in Mace Windu's signature lightsaber move, his connection to Finn, and the further involvement with Kylo Ren, this video outlines everything in much more detail:
Is your mind blown yet?
The Internet Made the Best Picture Envelope Into a Meme Because It Has Zero Chill
While the Oscars are known for giving awards to to unlikely winners, no one saw the biggest snafu to happen in its history coming: Faye Dunaway and Warren Beatty announcing the wrong winner, La La Land, for best picture. As cast and crew members were giving their acceptance speeches, La La Land producer, Jordan Horowitz, realized the mistake and held up the correct envelope showing that Moonlight actually won. The internet couldn't believe the error and knew only way to take it in stride: to meme the moment. Ahead, check out the funniest memes of Horowitz holding up the best picture envelope and then catch up on what Barry Jenkins and Mahershala Ali had to say about the win.
Doctors 'should interact with kids and their families about smoking,' Canadian task force says
Physicians should play a more active role in the prevention and treatment of cigarette smoking among those aged 5 to 18, new Canadian guidelines recommend.
Doctors 'should interact with kids and their families about smoking,' Canadian task force says
Physicians should play a more active role in the prevention and treatment of cigarette smoking among those aged 5 to 18, new Canadian guidelines recommend.
Grandma Is Surprised With the News of Her Grandchild 1 Day Before His Birth
A lot of couples wait a while before telling people about their pregnancy, but one couple in Roy, UT, waited a bit longer than considered usual to tell their mom they were expecting: nine whole months and just one day before the baby was to be born.
After having their first two children, Tannin Pease and his wife, Katie, suffered two miscarriages, so they decided with this rainbow pregnancy to wait until they found out the gender of the baby before telling people. But it turns out they waited a bit longer than that. "We had already been through two miscarriages where we told people we were pregnant and then we had to tell them we weren't anymore," Katie told ABC News. "That was heartbreaking and we didn't want to have to go through that again, so it helped waiting so long."
Since Tannin knew that his mother, Carolynn, was going to be pretty shocked about the news of her eleventh grandchild, he decided to record the entire surprise and post the video on Facebook. Tannin said his mother's reaction to the news was speechlessness. "You see it in the video, but ultimately, it was better than I expected."
Because Tannin's parents live in Montana, the couple was able to keep the surprise, which turns out was also a birthday gift. Their son was scheduled to arrive on Feb. 19, Carolynn's birthday. "[My mom] said to me that it was the best birthday present she's ever had and was super excited to be able to hold another grandchild," Tannin said. "She loved the surprise too."
"I didn't really expect to hear anything this soon, especially with the last miscarriage they had, which was traumatic," Carolynn said. "I was just completely floored. I feel really elated because they've a hard time and I was really excited for them. I thought the whole thing was very thoughtful to surprise me."
We're not sure how they managed to keep such epic news a secret for so long, but the result was surely worth it!
What It's Really Like to Lose Over 25 Pounds
By the middle of my sophomore year of college, I was in the worst physical shape of my life. A mix of drinking, the freedom to eat whatever and whenever I pleased, and my mom's cancer prognosis led to rapid weight gain and plummeting self-confidence. Every day I dragged myself to class wearing shapeless, oversize clothing, and avoided eye contact with my peers - I was genuinely unhappy with my appearance. The weight wasn't just burdening my body; it was affecting my mind as well. I felt intense anxiety and self-consciousness, and social situations that I used to flourish in became intimidating and difficult to maneuver.
My rock bottom
One night when I was getting ready for a friend's birthday dinner, I realized the extent of my dissatisfaction. As I thumbed through my closet feeling uninspired by every article of clothing, I realized that style, something I had always cherished, no longer excited me. It felt out of reach. I was not comfortable with the body I was dressing, and that realization was enough for me to begin making major lifestyle changes immediately.
I first had to accept that losing weight wasn't going to be an easy task, and that was why it was going to be worth it. Working toward anything takes unwavering willpower, strength, and sacrifice: weight loss was no different. Once I decided I wanted to change, a game-plan fell into place.
Step 1: I assessed my habits
I had always heard that weight loss was more about diet than exercise. In my case, this was more than true. I had been eating whatever I wanted, whenever I wanted, and as much as I wanted. My weakness was (and probably always will be) carbs, in all forms. I craved pasta, pizza, and bread of all sorts, much more than any indulgent dessert or treat. So, I knew for sure that this was an area that could use serious improvement. Since my mom has always commented on my unhealthy attraction to carbs, I confided in her about wanting to make a change and she helped me understand the difference between good and bad carbs. I hit the ground running and immediately cut out refined and processed carbohydrates, such as those found in the pasta and bread I loved, eating only carbs that were found naturally in fruits and vegetables. I knew I would be able to return to pasta someday, but for now it had to go.
Step 2: Apps that aided and recorded progress
Being a full-time student while balancing a social life, I definitely did not have access or the funds for guidance from a nutritionist, so, I did what any problem-solving millennial would do and I scavenged the app store for something that could help me instead. The app that kick-started and aided me immensely in my journey was MyFitnessPal. It taught me a lot about my body and what and how much I should be eating. What I found most useful was the ability to choose a target weight and the amount of time I wanted to take to reach the target weight. It was especially helpful in the beginning because I had no idea about intake and calories. Is 800 calories a lot for a meal? How many calories should I be eating a day? Is butter a carb? I also used KeepSafe, which is a camera roll protected by fingerprint and/or a custom passcode. For me, tracking my progress visually was incredibly important. I wanted to keep track of my weight loss through photos of myself in a sports bra and underwear so that I could easily observe the changes happening. That being said, I didn't want intimate photos of myself nearly naked living in my camera roll where a friend could easily stumble upon them.
Step 3: I skipped my diet sometimes
I remember beating myself up pretty harshly the first few times I broke the "no carb" rule I set for myself, but I quickly realized the significance of moderation. One meal, no matter how big or unhealthy, was probably not going to affect my weight as long as I was diligent and consistent with my diet the majority of the time. There was no reason to make myself feel as though I had failed for indulging. A bowl of gnocchi is something to celebrate!
Step 4: I found my place to sweat
I had always hated the gym and running, and intense anxiety tended to inhibit me from trying classes because I'm not completely in control of the situation. But, FINALLY, after a year and a half of healthy eating with no exercise, I forced myself to join a yoga studio. From the first time I went I was hooked. A tighter tummy was great, but a clear mind was even better.
Step 5: I mentally prepared myself for others' reactions
When someone loses weight, even a few pounds, people notice. So, after six months and over 20 pounds shed, people reacted. I wasn't heavy in a way that was threatening my health or well-being, so others questioned why I was trying to lose weight in the first place. I reassured my parents and close friends this was something positive and that I had everything under control, but everyone else was left to wonder. I found being genuine and kind was the best way to react to people's opinions, both good and bad . . . even though it was annoying.
Step 6: I became okay with never hitting my target weight
Yes, a scale was a good way to measure change in my body, but it wasn't the most important representation of my progress. It was much more about being comfortable in my own skin and dressing in clothes that made me happy. I did have a "goal weight" somewhat in my mind when I changed my lifestyle, but it dissipated from importance when I felt more confident and proud of my body, many pounds away from my original "goal." I never hit my goal weight, and if I ever do I probably won't know, because my scale has found a home in the trash can.
While I no longer use apps to track my diet, I am eternally grateful for how they helped me become the person I am today: a happy, healthy, self-confident yogi.
What It's Really Like to Lose Over 25 Pounds
By the middle of my sophomore year of college, I was in the worst physical shape of my life. A mix of drinking, the freedom to eat whatever and whenever I pleased, and my mom's cancer prognosis led to rapid weight gain and plummeting self-confidence. Every day I dragged myself to class wearing shapeless, oversize clothing, and avoided eye contact with my peers - I was genuinely unhappy with my appearance. The weight wasn't just burdening my body; it was affecting my mind as well. I felt intense anxiety and self-consciousness, and social situations that I used to flourish in became intimidating and difficult to maneuver.
My rock bottom
One night when I was getting ready for a friend's birthday dinner, I realized the extent of my dissatisfaction. As I thumbed through my closet feeling uninspired by every article of clothing, I realized that style, something I had always cherished, no longer excited me. It felt out of reach. I was not comfortable with the body I was dressing, and that realization was enough for me to begin making major lifestyle changes immediately.
I first had to accept that losing weight wasn't going to be an easy task, and that was why it was going to be worth it. Working toward anything takes unwavering willpower, strength, and sacrifice: weight loss was no different. Once I decided I wanted to change, a game-plan fell into place.
Step 1: I assessed my habits
I had always heard that weight loss was more about diet than exercise. In my case, this was more than true. I had been eating whatever I wanted, whenever I wanted, and as much as I wanted. My weakness was (and probably always will be) carbs, in all forms. I craved pasta, pizza, and bread of all sorts, much more than any indulgent dessert or treat. So, I knew for sure that this was an area that could use serious improvement. Since my mom has always commented on my unhealthy attraction to carbs, I confided in her about wanting to make a change and she helped me understand the difference between good and bad carbs. I hit the ground running and immediately cut out refined and processed carbohydrates, such as those found in the pasta and bread I loved, eating only carbs that were found naturally in fruits and vegetables. I knew I would be able to return to pasta someday, but for now it had to go.
Step 2: Apps that aided and recorded progress
Being a full-time student while balancing a social life, I definitely did not have access or the funds for guidance from a nutritionist, so, I did what any problem-solving millennial would do and I scavenged the app store for something that could help me instead. The app that kick-started and aided me immensely in my journey was MyFitnessPal. It taught me a lot about my body and what and how much I should be eating. What I found most useful was the ability to choose a target weight and the amount of time I wanted to take to reach the target weight. It was especially helpful in the beginning because I had no idea about intake and calories. Is 800 calories a lot for a meal? How many calories should I be eating a day? Is butter a carb? I also used KeepSafe, which is a camera roll protected by fingerprint and/or a custom passcode. For me, tracking my progress visually was incredibly important. I wanted to keep track of my weight loss through photos of myself in a sports bra and underwear so that I could easily observe the changes happening. That being said, I didn't want intimate photos of myself nearly naked living in my camera roll where a friend could easily stumble upon them.
Step 3: I skipped my diet sometimes
I remember beating myself up pretty harshly the first few times I broke the "no carb" rule I set for myself, but I quickly realized the significance of moderation. One meal, no matter how big or unhealthy, was probably not going to affect my weight as long as I was diligent and consistent with my diet the majority of the time. There was no reason to make myself feel as though I had failed for indulging. A bowl of gnocchi is something to celebrate!
Step 4: I found my place to sweat
I had always hated the gym and running, and intense anxiety tended to inhibit me from trying classes because I'm not completely in control of the situation. But, FINALLY, after a year and a half of healthy eating with no exercise, I forced myself to join a yoga studio. From the first time I went I was hooked. A tighter tummy was great, but a clear mind was even better.
Step 5: I mentally prepared myself for others' reactions
When someone loses weight, even a few pounds, people notice. So, after six months and over 20 pounds shed, people reacted. I wasn't heavy in a way that was threatening my health or well-being, so others questioned why I was trying to lose weight in the first place. I reassured my parents and close friends this was something positive and that I had everything under control, but everyone else was left to wonder. I found being genuine and kind was the best way to react to people's opinions, both good and bad . . . even though it was annoying.
Step 6: I became okay with never hitting my target weight
Yes, a scale was a good way to measure change in my body, but it wasn't the most important representation of my progress. It was much more about being comfortable in my own skin and dressing in clothes that made me happy. I did have a "goal weight" somewhat in my mind when I changed my lifestyle, but it dissipated from importance when I felt more confident and proud of my body, many pounds away from my original "goal." I never hit my goal weight, and if I ever do I probably won't know, because my scale has found a home in the trash can.
While I no longer use apps to track my diet, I am eternally grateful for how they helped me become the person I am today: a happy, healthy, self-confident yogi.
Ben Affleck "and Guest" Matt Damon Bring the Laughs on Stage at the Oscars
It's been two decades since Good Will Hunting earned Ben Affleck and Matt Damon an Academy Award for best original screenplay, and the longtime friends and collaborators celebrated the milestone when they hit the stage together at the Oscars on Sunday night. Thanks to host Jimmy Kimmel's ongoing feud with Matt, they were introduced as "Ben Affleck and guest," and Jimmy made sure the band played music any time Matt tried to speak. While Matt walked the red carpet with his wife, Luciana, Ben skipped the step and repeat; will we see him at the afterparty with his younger brother, Casey?
How Many Pets Does Miley Cyrus Actually Have? We Did Some Investigating
If you follow Miley Cyrus on Instagram, you know it's a wild ride - between bright colors, international travels, crazy parties, and wild videos, it's hard to keep track of what's going on in the performer's life. One constant in her social media posts, however, is Miley's veritable menagerie of pets: she has rescued dogs, cats, and even (naturally) a pig! But how many of the adorable animals on Miley's Instagram are actually a part of her current fur family (not to be mistaken for her "Dead Petz")?
We did a bit of investigating into Miley's "animal house" to determine how many animals she's rescued, what their names are, and - of course - how cute they are. The total tally, including her fiancé Liam Hemsworth's two dogs, is a whopping 13! Without further ado, meet Miley Cyrus's adorable pack of pets.
The Supermodels Owned the Night at the Oscars Afterparty
The models might not have attended the Oscars ceremony, but they certainly didn't miss the party. Post-show, the Vanity Fair Oscars bash drew in the likes of Emily Ratajkowski, Miranda Kerr, Kate Upton, and mom-to-be Rosie Huntington-Whiteley (in a custom Atelier Versace dress, no less). Their gowns, featuring thigh-high slits and sheer fabric, were some of the sexiest looks of the night. When you're a model, though, it's not too hard to pull off such daring pieces with poise. Read on to see who wore what, because the models owned the night.
Ben Affleck "and Guest" Matt Damon Bring the Laughs on Stage at the Oscars
It's been two decades since Good Will Hunting earned Ben Affleck and Matt Damon an Academy Award for best original screenplay, and the longtime friends and collaborators celebrated the milestone when they hit the stage together at the Oscars on Sunday night. Thanks to host Jimmy Kimmel's ongoing feud with Matt, they were introduced as "Ben Affleck and guest," and Jimmy made sure the band played music any time Matt tried to speak. While Matt walked the red carpet with his wife, Luciana, Ben skipped the step and repeat; will we see him at the afterparty with his younger brother, Casey?
Make No Mistake, Moonlight Is More Than Deserving of Its Best Picture Oscar Win
Growing up in the mean streets of Bed Stuy, Brooklyn, I experienced the worst aspects of homophobia. From the age of 12 years old, being tormenting daily because of my sexuality was all I knew. Whether it was someone pulling down my pants to embarrass me or cutting my hair with scissors and calling me a "f*ggot" as I walked the halls to ridicule me, the cruelty was something I dealt with frequently.
One instance that comes to mind is the day I was forewarned by bullies that I would be beaten up once the final school bell rang. Sure enough, my predators were out to get me when the opportunity arrived. I remember running and feeling the heavy weight of sadness, anger, and confusion. I couldn't understand what was it about being gay that made me such a target for such relentless hate. Nevertheless, I had no time to rationalize it. I kept running anyway.
This memory came rushing back to me when I watched Moonlight. The film follows an introverted black boy named Chiron (played by Alex R. Hibbert, Ashton Sanders, and Trevante Rhodes) through three pivotal stages in his life as he struggles to come to terms with his sexuality, especially while living in a drug-infested, poverty-stricken environment filled with people who constantly remind him that he is "other." In the opening scene, there's a shot of Chiron running as fast as he can away from a group of boys his age who are chasing him down, calling him a slew of hateful epithets. As I watched, the scene reopened old wounds. I instantly knew that boy - because that boy was once me.
Luckily, just like Chiron in the movie, someone spotted me. An older teenager from the neighborhood asked me why I was running. I looked back, out of breath, and told him that I was being chased. I remember him urging me to follow him as he dashed toward that same group of boys, yelling at them as they scurried off like cowards. It's those vivid childhood experiences that made Moonlight both relatable and honest for someone who experienced the same homophobia growing up - someone like me.
The movie recently won a Golden Globe for best drama picture, and took home three Academy Awards, including the highest honor for Best Picture. And while I would have loved to see the cast and filmmakers of Moonlight accept the coveted Oscar award without dealing with that awkward mishap, it's not the accolades that make it such an important film. Thanks to the sincere script by Tarell Alvin McCraney (who drew from his own childhood experiences) and the tender directing style of Barry Jenkins, Moonlight manages to accurately explore the way masculinity and self-expression are taught to young queer black boys. More importantly, Moonlight examines the shame and secrecy that often comes with growing up black and gay. The talented actors on screen convey more depth in their silence than in their words, embodying someone who is always expected to be tough in order to get by.
This dynamic is highlighted in the relationship between Chiron and his only childhood friend, Kevin. Chiron and Kevin never quite come to terms with who they really are, both separately and for each other. Even after sharing a beautifully intimate moment with one another as teenagers at the beach, the very next day Kevin is peer pressured at school to prove his manhood by physically assaulting Chiron in front of his classmates. It is a heartbreaking moment for both the audience and the protagonist, who is left bloody and bruised by the one person he trusted most. Although the duo later reconnect as adults, in the end it is never confirmed whether Kevin ever truly had romantic feelings for Chiron so much as Chiron had hoped.
Image Source: A24
Things are not all bad for Chiron, though. The few bright spots in his life are more than powerful enough to leave you with hope. Take, for instance Mahershala Ali's character Juan, a drug dealer who takes Chiron under his wing as a mentor of sorts, regardless of his own imperfections. There's also Janelle Monáe's character Teresa, Juan's girlfriend, who serves as an emblem of unconditional love and acceptance in place of Chiron's drug-addicted mother who verbally abuses him, played by Naomie Harris. This support system is vital both on screen and in real life for LGBTQ community members who are at a higher risk of committing suicide coming from families who reject them.
Much like the title of another important film released last year, queer black boys on screen are often hidden figures.
The striking impact of Moonlight in the black gay community also speaks to another harsh reality that, even in a somewhat progressive society where openly LGBT people are often celebrated, it's still uncommon to see accurate depictions of black gay males on screen, especially those that shatter the stereotypes of being "on the down-low" or overtly effeminate for the sake of entertainment. Much like the title of another important film released last year, queer black boys on screen are often hidden figures. With Moonlight, audiences get an inside look at homosexuality and masculinity in all of their complexity within the African-American community.
In the same way the moon illuminates the night sky, Moonlight shines an overdue spotlight on blackness and queerness in a way we haven't seen in cinema before. If there's anything to take away from the film as a black gay male, it is this simple fact: we don't have to hide anymore.
Salma Hayek, Innocent Bystander, Saw That Whole Best Picture Flub Go Down Backstage
By now you're likely aware of the major mistake that was made in the last five minutes of the Academy Awards on Sunday night, and actress Salma Hayek talked to reporters about seeing the whole thing go down backstage when she arrived at the Vanity Fair afterparty. "I actually saw it before everybody else," she told ET, explaining that she heard a stage manager saying, "No, no, no," and wondered, "What are they going to do now?" Watch her firsthand account, which she called "freaky but exciting."
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