Prolific Actor Darren McGavin Dies at 83 (AP)
February 25, 2006AP - Darren McGavin, the husky, tough-talking actor who starred in the TV series "Mike Hammer," played a grouchy dad in the holiday classic "A Christmas Story" and had other strong roles in such films as "The Man with the Golden Arm" and "The Natural," has died. He was 83.
Comencini's Oscar nom beats the gender odds (Reuters)
February 25, 2006Reuters - What is it with Italian female directors and the Oscars? In 78 years, only three women -- Italy's Lena Wertmuller ("Seven Beauties"), New Zealand's Jane Campion ("The Piano"), and Hollywood's Sofia Coppola ("Lost in Translation") -- have been nominated for best director.
Jessica Simpson Breaks Bread With Governor (AP)
February 25, 2006
AP - Jessica Simpson took a break from filming her latest movie to dine with Gov. Bill Richardson, his wife and others at the governor's mansion.
Thoughtful thriller dominates French film awards (Reuters)
February 25, 2006Reuters - Jacques Audiard's "De battre mon coeur s'est arrete" (The Beat That My Heart Skipped) on Saturday swept eight Cesars, France's top film awards, including best film and best director.
Leguizamo to Open Alaska 'Ice Age' Park (AP)
February 25, 2006
AP - John Leguizamo will arrive by dog sled at an ice-carving festival in Fairbanks to open a park with characters from the upcoming sequel to his film "Ice Age," officials said.
Rob Reiner Takes Leave From Commission (AP)
February 25, 2006AP - Hollywood director Rob Reiner stepped down temporarily as chairman of a state early education commission amid scrutiny about the potential misuse of taxpayer funds for a June ballot initiative he is spearheading.
West, Keys, Carey Lead 'Image' Nominees (AP)
February 25, 2006AP - Mariah Carey was poised to keep her comeback going Saturday as a leading contender for the 37th Annual NAACP Image Awards, including best song and album.