SHAME: CAREY MULLIGAN Q & A
LONDON-BORN ENGLISH ACTRESS CAREY MULLIGAN CAME TO INTERNATIONAL PROMINENCE ON THE BACK OF HER ACADEMY AWARD-NOMINATED TURN IN LONE SCHERFIG’S AN EDUCATION, A ROLE FOR WHICH SHE ALSO EARNED BEST ACTRESS AWARDS FROM THE NATIONAL BOARD OF REVIEW, THE BRITISH INDEPENDENT FILM AWARDS AND BAFTA. SHE RECENTLY STARRED IN MARK ROMANEK’S ADAPTATION OF KAZUO ISHIGURO’S NEVER LET ME GO, WITH KEIRA KNIGHTELY AND ANDREW GARFIELD, AND ALSO IN OLIVER STONE’S WALL STREET 2: MONEY NEVER SLEEPS, PLAYING THE DAUGHTER OF MICHAEL DOUGLAS’S ICONIC CHARACTER. SHE ALSO STARRED AS KITTY IN JANE AUSTEN’S PRICE AND PREJUDICE. ADDITIONAL FILMS INCLUDE PUBLIC ENEMIES, THE GREATEST, BROTHERS, WHEN DID YOU LAST SEE YOUR FATHER AND DRIVE.
Carey has just won the best supporting actress award at the Hollywood Film Awards as well as the Detroit Film Critics Society Awards for her role in the tense drama Shame, directed by Steve McQueen where she plays Sissy, sibling to Michael Fassbender’s character, Brandon. AGENT2 brings you this interview before the UK release of Shame.
Your character in Shame, Sissy, is another fantastic and really interesting part…
Yes. My agent gave me the script. She read it and she told me that there is this insane part of Michael Fassbender’s sister and I read it and I thought, ‘No way on earth will Steve McQueen ever let me play this.’ I thought they would cast someone gritty and American. So I met Steve thinking that there was no way this would come off and he kept on trying to leave! Like ten minutes into our meeting, he was like, ‘Right, okay, thanks.’ And I was, ‘Oh, no!’ And I kept making him sit down again.
What did you say to him?
I just said, ‘Look, Steve, the thing is’, and then I wouldn’t have anything to say. But we did end up talking about The Seagull, which is my big obsession. Playing Nina in The Seagull, I have never really recovered from it and I want to play Nina for the rest of my life, but I couldn’t find a film role that was on the same level, or as difficult or as interesting. Then when I read Shame I thought it was as difficult as Nina and that is what I told him, to convince him to let me do it.
Why is Sissy so close to Nina in The Seagull?
They both have an uncompromising nature. Both of them have the ability to jump without a safety net and they both have really, really high standards for love and for success and yet neither of them can meet them. There is a tragedy in that. When we were rehearsing for Shame, Steve and I talked a lot about Francesca Woodman who was an artist. She was a photographer, an American from Connecticut, and she started taking photographs when she was 15 years old. The majority of them were self-portraits and nudes and she killed herself; she jumped out of a building when she was 22 years old in 1981. I don’t know what it was about her but she had this same thing. She wasn’t afraid. She had no boundaries. She wouldn’t accept less than taking over and being seen and being heard. I don’t know why she killed herself but one of her frustrations was that she was not accepted in her time. People didn’t really appreciate her work and now, of course, her work is sold for thousands.
Tell me how Sissy fits into Shame…
I think Shame is about a man who is trying to control his life and won’t allow people to become intimate with him. He is trying to forget and has a regimented life and part of that is an addiction, his relationship with his sister and the people around him. But the sexual addiction has always been a side note to me, because I think it is more about how he connects with people and how any obsession or addiction informs how you behave towards the people around you. The sexual thing is obviously very specific and it is uncomfortable. I think that is Steve’s intention. It is funny because in the cinema if you make light of sex, or you are crude or you make a joke of it, then it’s fine and acceptable. But the minute you start to talk about it seriously it is unattractive and there is nothing in Shame that is very sexy. It makes you go away and never want to have sex again!
It must have been an intimidating role?
Terrifying. If I had been playing any kind of character, playing a tea lady, I would have been scared, because it was Steve McQueen and Michael Fassbender. The standards that they set are so high, so that in itself was terrifying. Added to that the particulars about the character, the music and the singing and all that stuff, it was a pretty big leap.
It’s an intense film, but can you also have a laugh when making the movie?
You can. I didn’t know what to expect because my first meeting with Steve was quite intense. He sort of riles you up. I almost cried! I think I did cry at our first meeting because he stirs up a desire to make art and no one else ever has ever done that in the same way. He really challenges you on why you make the choices that you make — what kind of films you make and why you are doing them. And that was really intimidating and alarming but he also reminds you why you want to act. He would come in when we were doing a take and he’d say, ‘Ah, Michael, you two seem like Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers’, and it was amazing. You’d be so in awe and at the same time he’d be telling you to do it better. He would be like, ‘It is half time and you are 4-0 up and you have got to be 8-0 up. You can do it.’ Stuff like that. Sometimes it would be very quiet but often he was like a real cheerleader. He can mess around, especially with Michael.
The bathroom scene and the singing scene — was one more frightening than the other?
Singing. The singing was more nerve racking than the nude scene. The nude scene in the end was fine actually. I think I was nervous beforehand. I remember lying down in the bath in that bathroom and I knew that Michael was going to burst into the first take at any point and, strangely, I didn’t feel nervous at all. Whereas with the first take of the singing I was really scared. Steve always wanted it live and he wanted it in one take. So that set of requirements meant you couldn’t muck it up. We were there for about two hours and we did take, cut, take, cut. And the lyrics when you study them are desperate. It was really fun to play. I had singing lessons and a singing coach and she actually played the piano in the scene.
Have you sung much before?
I was in the choir at school. I sang in musicals and stuff but never the big roles and, weirdly, Belle & Sebastian asked me to sing on one of their songs last year. That was very scary. I was terrified. I had no idea. It was so random. They just rang up my agent and asked if I’d be interested and I was like, ‘Yeah!’ It was cool but so nerve-racking. Singing is terrifying. It was the scariest thing. Not the worst thing to do but it scared me to death.
When did you first think you wanted to do this as your career?
The first time I did a play was a musical, The King And I, when I was six in Düsseldorf. My brother was in it and I wasn’t which didn’t go down very well with me. That was the first thing I did. But I don’t think there was a light bulb moment when I thought of it as a career. I just always thought that this was what I was going to do.
And you’re currently shooting Baz Luhrmann’s The Great Gatsby. Is it ever so lavish?
Yes. His style is so unique to him and he is the only person who can do it. It is amazing doing a period film and really walking into sets where the design is so grand. It is perfect. It is accurate. It is so intricate. It helps inform the role. It was the same in Shame. We were in a tiny apartment, literally, much smaller than this whole room and that confinement was so helpful. Michael and I played out scenes in one shot and it was really just the tiniest space and that made you feel claustrophobic. It is the same with Gatsby; the design and the set informs your work and it is so helpful.
SHAME is released in the UK and Ireland on 13 January
Check out AGENT2′s great SHAME t-shirt and DVD bundle giveaway courtesy of Momentum pictures here.
For more information; facebook.com/shameuk or follow @shamefilm
NEW DELHI: MY BASMATI OR YOURS?
NEW DELHI, THE CAPITAL OF INDIA, EXHILARATES IN PASSION, CULTURE AND LOVE. A COUNTRY BURSTING WITH FLAVOURS AMONGST THE FOOD, PEOPLE AND THE HISTORIC LANDMARKS THAT I CAME ACROSS, UPON MY TRAVELS TO THIS BEAUTIFUL CITY.
When I was invited to the APEDA Basmati for the World food conference in New Delhi, India, I was so overly excited, India is such a beautiful country, from the climate to the people to the aromas of the spices, I certainly do adore Mother India.
After departing from London, I landed at 5am on the Monday at Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi. Outside the weather was very foggy. We left in the fog and arrived in the fog, it almost felt as though I went round in the air and ended back at Heathrow. The journey in total with the delay was 9hours.
The journey to hotel from the airport was about 20 minutes, I was staying at The Grand Hotel, a newly refurbished hotel for when the Commonwealth Games took place in 2010. As I arrived to the hotel and descended the bus, had to go through the metal detectors, security in India is very high due to the 2009 bombings. The white reception lobby was of a large size, overlooking the gardens. On arrival at check in, breakfast was served at the Crystal Lounge on the lower ground floor. The view was amazing with the gardens in front, massive palm, beautiful flower trees lined together. There was an array of different cuisines for breakfast, the waitress took me around and showed me the indian, chinese, english and continental. I was so lost for choice but I played it safe as I was very sleepy. Juice was served in small little glass bottles, which was so handy and a glassful.
The room was big and airy, the bathroom was the size of my bedroom at home, decked out in black tiles, an oval mirror with the toiletries at the far end, a tub, walk in shower and a sink. Sliding doors for the toilet and wardrobe. Also there were two entrances to the bathroom, one was from the corridor as soon as you enter from the main door, and the other was the sliding door beside the bed. The sliding door was covered with a full mirror. The room definitely wasn’t short of any mirrors, definitely handy for any woman. The bed was very comfortable after a 9 hour flight.
Monday afternoon was all about sight seeing, boarded the bus at 4pm, the hotel was situated near a massive modern contemporary shopping mall where you’d find the likes of Zara, Dolce & Gabbana, Versace and etc. Driving around Delhi was nice, the constant horning, overtaking, but still abiding by the law of using traffic lights and the one way system. When you visit India, you are suddenly hit by the constant chaos, the population of the people, the cars and motorbikes, and the occasional quiff of smell in the air, also the cows, buffalos, dogs and goats roaming the streets. New Delhi is very modernised with the Metro system in place, thousands of people use it everyday, the most busiest is at 6pm, nobody wants to be on a train and get squashed like an ant at that time. Drove past The India Gate – which resembles the ‘Arc De Triomphe‘ in Paris. India Gate commemorates the 70,000 soldiers who lost their lives fighting for the British Army during World War I. The memorial bears the names of more than 13,516 British and Indian soldiers killed in the Northwestern Frontier in the Afghan war of 1919.
Next to past was the Red Fort – situated in Old Delhi, it is the focal point of modern India and attracts a major crowd on each Independence Day. It was a real shame the bus didn’t stop at these major hot spots. History is what makes India so special.
Along the drive we went past the Indian Crown Courts, Parliament House, Gandhi Museum and the Indian Wall Street. Stopping at Jama Masjid the great and largest mosque in Old Delhi, with a courtyard capable of holding 25,000 devotees. The highly decorative mosque has three great gates, four towers, and two 40m high minarets constructed of stripes, red sandstone and white marble. I had to cover up fully, so robes were provided to me prior entering, dress like a local without feeling like an outsider.
After visiting the Jama Masjid, riding on the bicycle tuk tuks was quite an experience, the strength of one small man pulling two ladies isn’t an easy job. We went round the block of Chandni Chowk seeing the sights of the food markets, street stalls, jewellery shops and the hanging cables. The road was very uneven, had pot holes everywhere, I think I lost quite a few brain cells with the constant bashing into the side rails. A must if you are ever in India!
Dinner was at Park Balluchi, a lovely little restaurant, as there was a big crowd of us, they gave us the conservatory seating area. It was a mild chilly evening, a comparison from the afternoon heat. Park Balluchi is a flagship fine dining restaurant with beautiful natural surroundings with lush greenery all around the place. The cuisine was Hyderabadi, Awadhi and Punjabi. A selection of white and red wine was on constant rotation, never short of a breath as was the water. One by one a waiter came and served me food, one piece at a time, the accompaniments were placed on the table first of chutneys and poppadams. First came the baby chicken, juicy, tender and fell off the bone easily, followed by that was paneer archari tikka – soft cheese cooked in a big open tandoor. Flame grilled banarsi seekh kebabs, the fire still burning from the skewer which was in the chefs hand was awesome. So lovely, could definitely taste the chalky charcoal and the tenderised meat. The rest of the meal was fabulous, it was every foodies dream, the rich curry flavours exploded in my mouth, the homemade naan accompanied with the rice and daals. The salads, chutneys and the dessert was superb and the service was tremendous.
The APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export development Authority) ‘Basmati for the World 2011′ food conference took place in the conference hall of the hotel. A spacious setting for very few people. A lesson in the finest Indian Basmati Rice. It was a rather dramatic event, the Minister of Commerce and Industry Anand Sharma lit the diva and all of a sudden the Darude house anthem came on, consisting of a lot of bass and thumping.
A life lesson in Basmati: ‘Bas’ means ‘Aroma’, ‘Mati’ means ‘Full of’. Around the world there are 10,000 varieties of rice, and yet Basmati does stand out as the most gourmet of them. It offers an amazing sweet fragrance, an unmistakeable yet delicate taste, almost nutty. It is also quite easy to differentiate, a number of rice’s are sticky, but this isn’t. Each grain is perfectly separated from the other. I heard it was once used in the household of the ‘Raja’s and Rani’s’ of India, now its just as special as its used in every household, ‘King in the Indian Rice Basket’.
Basmati is a versatile long grain of rice, can be used in almost anything, I saw and tasted many dishes made by the international chefs at the Chefs Conclave, such as Puff Basmati Rice with Star Anise Custard by Matt Edmonds. It was very delicious, the rice without the custard had like a sweet, coconut taste, once the custard was poured on top, the star anise flavour bursted out, it reminded me of liquorice in a bowl of rice. Perfect for a dessert or a snack even. Basmati Rice Risotto by David Charles Fenton was intricate, delicate in taste and the long grain of rice tasted heavenly. Once you have experienced its fragrance or taste, it is one engrained in your memory and you can recognise its aroma as soon as you are in its vicinity.
The Basmati Coffee Table Book was launched during the ceremony, edited by Shilpi Gupta – Head Chef at The Grand. The book gives an outline of the rice and many recipes such as Thai Basil Fried Rice by Shilpi Gupta, French Rice Ball Fritters by Lionel Levy, Candid Prunes in Red Wine Stuffed With Vanilla Rice Pudding, Italian Style Basmati Risotto in Pizza Calzone by Alfonso Lomanco, and many more to get your taste buds tantalising. The book is a great idea for someone who needs inspiration, recipes from India, Europe, Eurasia and America, you simply wouldn’t want to leave your kitchen.
Went to a tourist market called ‘Dilli Haat’ its a very pricey market, almost like a fake take on a real market. They have wooden carved tables and animals, pashmina shawls, bags, bangles and shoes. Every other stall is selling the same thing but for a higher price. Even if you try to bargain they still won’t shift, so really its much easier to buy from a fixed price shop than it is from Dilli Haat. There wasn’t really much to see, I was rather disappointed as the trip didn’t consist of anything original.
The Taj Mahal was definitely one of the best highlights of the trip. It took 5 hours to get there from the hotel leaving at 7:30am, the tour guide Poonam was really good at explaining the significance and why it was build. Along the journey I saw snake charmers, performing monkeys and vast land of green fields. The constant honking and overtaking is what makes India so lively. Upon reaching Agra, the temperatures were exhilarating hot reached about 28 degrees. Agra is a city on the banks of the River Yamuna in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh.
Taj Mahal is one of the most famous buildings in the world, the mausoleum of Shah Jahan’s favourite wife Mumtaz Mahal. It is one of the seven wonders of the world, and one of three World Heritage Sites in Agra.
Completed in 1653, the Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal Shah Jahan as a resting place for his beloved wife. Finished in white marble, this perfectly symmetrical monument took 22 years of labour and 20,000 worker, masons and jewellers to build and is set amidst the landscaped gardens. Built by the Persian architect Ustad Isa, the Taj Mahal stands majestically on the banks of the River Yamuna, the synonymous of love and romance.
My thought whilst watching the Taj is the immeasurable beauty, glistening in the sun, the exquisite ornamentation and its picturesque location. From afar it looks so tiny but up close its a postcard brought to life. Everything I have ever imagined!
Words and images Priya Kerai
IN A NEW YEAR SPECIAL TOPMAN GENERATION TRANSFORM AMY CHILDS INTO A DANDY BOHEMIAN ROCK STAR FROM ANOTHER ERA
Amy Childs has been given a makeover like never before. Topman GENERATION’s unique photoshoot turns Amy into the face of a mysterious and mythical bohemian rock’n'roll band from the mid-70s. With Art Direction from Editor John-Paul Pryor, Fashion photographer Michael Hemy (Tom Ford, Dazed & Confused, Louis Vuitton) turns the instantly recognisable star of TOWIE, and current show It’s All About Amy, into a sophisticated 70s glamour puss, tipping an aesthetic nod to the reportage-style glamour of Bob Richardson.
Adorned head-to-toe in classic vintage sourced by much talked about stylist Melissa Thompson (AnOther Magazine, Dazed & Confused), Essex siren Amy Childs is joined in her fictional rock’n'roll troupe by her vampish male bohemian cohorts. This is Amy Childs as you have never seen her before; this is Amy Childs, Voodoo Child.
See Amy Childs on Channel 5 in her show “It’s All About Amy” on Thursday December 29, 2011, at 10:00pm. “It’s All About Amy” on Channel 5 will be back in the New year from January 12, on from 11:00pm.
Topman GENERATION: www.magazine.topman.com
RICHIE CULVER: NEW ARTISTS LAUNCH
DOWN A VERY PRETTY MEWS IN MAYFAIR ON FRIDAY NIGHT, IN A HIDDEN AWAY GALLERY CALLED MAGGS GALLERY, WAS HALF OF LONDON’S NEW ART FOLLOWERS.
The wet weather and packed garden bar showed how not even a damp day in the capital could keep people away.
NA or New Artists is aiming to provide short-term exhibition, popping up and disappearing again, moving around rich architectural spaces around London that gets the viewer away from usual gallery spaces or museums.
The artists that showed their work in this cosy space was Richie Culver, Shorvon and Hunter with a scattering of William Burroughs photographs and occult paraphernalia.
Richie Culvers autobiographical work attempted to communicate with a subject following a loss. He brings together a plethora of old pictures and collages and adds a witty caption. It showed what he wanted to say to family members to failed relationships but may never have got around to saying. It is as if he looks at the picture and says the first memory that has flashed before his eyes. We all have a bank in our mind of things we wish we had said, this exhibition moved and was easily relatable.
Nicholas Shorvan and Ben Hunter were on the top of my list for the evening. The selection of bronze sculptures with it strange and allegorical melting soldiers, dealt with the often surreal documentations of war, with the bronze material referencing the war memorials of the past. It was part of a bigger exhibit about man’s use of violence in his innate quest for more…..Same shit different day, and opened thought provoking questions about how the even though the bronze was varied the subject was the same.
The art of the evening was certainly up to scratch, and the after party didn’t disappoint. Held at Le Baron with Jack Penate and Paloma Faith heading to the decks, the night rounded up well, after a few whiskey punches on offer at the exhibition. Hopefully this guerilla art project is one of many.
Words Jennifer Butler
GADGETS GIRLS CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT
Whether you’re shopping for your girlfriend, sister, or best friend, we’ve found the year’s hottest gifts to please every gal on your list. From a super-slick smartphone to pretty pocket-size wireless speakers, we reveal the nine hottest gadgets she’ll love this holiday.
When it comes to smartphones, the GALAXY Note is quite possibly the best out there. Not only does it have the world’s first 5.3-inch HD Super AMOLED screen, which provides an incomparable high-resolution viewing experience, it also comes with an 8-megapixel camera complete with photo and video editing, and the advanced S Pen to personalize everything you do. If you really want to wow her this holiday, grab one of these.
Built with the same material as an advanced aircraft, this Samsung notebook is twice as strong as aluminium yet weighs less than three pounds. Plus, it features a backlit keyboard, brilliant LCD display screen, and a large multitouch clickpad. All in all, a pretty sharp package she’ll love.
Girls are gamers too—and the Nintendo 3DS is something at the top of any gamers’ list this holiday. The 3-D screen is best in class and doesn’t require 3-D glasses—a real breakthrough in portable entertainment. If she likes gaming, she’ll love this.
This funky retro handset is ideal for anyone who loves all things vintage. Featuring a classic look with a contemporary edge, the handset plugs directly into a mobile phone, computer, or tablet for an old-school chatting experience.
Polaroid Instant Digital Camera
Recapture the magic of instant photography with this new Polaroid camera. Using the latest inkless printing technology, you can instantly transform digital photos into fun 3-by-4-inch photos that can be shared spontaneously. And inkless printing means no messy ink cartridges to worry about!
Juicy Couture Faux-Fur Earmuff Headphones
There’s no better gift for a stylish, tech-savvy woman than these super-cute faux-fur headphones. Not only will she be impressed that you’re familiar with fashion label Juicy Couture, she’ll love that she can rock out to her MP3 player in high style.
Barnes & Noble Nook Simple Touch
If she’s always reading a new novel or browsing her favorite weekly mag, we bet she’ll adore Barnes and Noble’s second-generation Nook. This upgraded e-reader is faster, lighter, and thinner than its predecessor—and boasts a two-month battery life (that’s an entire month more than the Kindle!). And with its library of more than 2.5 million books, she’ll never run out of titles to download.
No more cords or docking systems: The chic-but-powerful Jambox speaker is wireless, small enough to fit in your hand, and mighty enough to fill even the largest room. And with 10 hours of battery life, it won’t die as the party peaks.
This sleek handheld camera shoots in astonishing 3-D HD sure to impress any recipient on your gift list this year. Bonus: The LCD screen features 3-D playback—no special glasses needed!
Check out our Techie Holiday Gift Guide for Him here.
A VERY TECHIE HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
You can’t avoid it any longer—it’s time to start thinking about holiday shopping. But this year, skip the traditional go-to gifts of sweaters and boxers, and instead impress your family and friends with cutting-edge gadgets and gear. From the latest and greatest smartphone to the best handheld gaming system, we reveal the hottest gifts of 2011.
Samsung has taken the smartphone to a whole new level with the GALAXY Note. Featuring a large and immersive screen, best-in-class mobile input ‘with a touchscreen and the advanced S Pen, a full suite of features including built in photo and video editing capabilities, this is must-have for your most discerning gift recipients.
This incredible television is something everyone should experience: From its visually stunning LED HD picture to its Smart TV capabilities with a solid collection of apps including Facebook and Skype, it’s a must-have for anyone who’s a gadget lover.
Barnes & Noble Nook Simple Touch
The latest generation of the Barnes and Noble e-reader is faster, lighter, and thinner than its predecessor. And we haven’t even gotten to the best part: The new Nook has a two-month battery life (that’s an entire month more than the Kindle!). With its library of more than 2.5 million books, this is a dream come true for any book lover.
This incredible television is something everyone should experience: From its visually stunning LED HD picture to its Smart TV capabilities with a solid collection of apps including Facebook and Skype, it’s a must-have for anyone who’s a gadget lover.
There always seems to be a snazzy new handheld camera hitting the market—but this one rises way above the rest. The insanely flexible 12-megapixel Tryx can turn, twist, hang, and stand unassisted to get shots you never thought possible.
Sony’s new camcorder isn’t the first to tout two lenses—but it is the first to have two imaging sensors and two processors. What does that mean? Unbelievably clear playback and the ability to seamlessly go from 3-D to 2-D HD and back.
Want to really impress him? This is the only headset on the market equipped with military-grade noise-cancelling technology to ensure the least amount of background noise possible during important phone calls. The design is really cool too.
This lighter-size tracker combines a Web-based tracking service with GPS technology so you can keep an eye on children, pets, or personal property. View the location of your tracker from your computer or, if you prefer, your mobile device. Perfect for the person who can’t get enough James Bond.
Livescribe Echo Smartpen (2GB)
Not only does this pen create digital backups of handwritten notes (when used with special paper), it also can record up to 400 hours of audio. Did we mention it has a camera too?
In the landscape of handheld gaming devices, the 3DS might not have the deepest selection of game titles. But what it lacks in selection it more than makes up for in its incredible, all encompassing 3-D experience (minus the glasses!). Once you play it, you’ll never put it down.
Nike Plus Sportswatch GPS (Powered by TomTom)
When Nike partnered with GPS powerhouse TomTom to create the Sportswatch GPS, we knew greatness would happen—and we weren’t disappointed. The watch tracks your time, distance, pace, and calories burned and seamlessly connects all this info with the NikePlus website to help you manage your running. Pretty slick.
HOLLYOAKS: THE NEW RECRUITS
FOR THE NEW STUDENTS AT HOLLYOAKS COLLEGE, FRESHERS WEEK HAS IS NOTHING MORE THAN A DRUNKEN BLUR SINCE THEIR OCTOBER STORYLINES DRAMATICALLY UNRAVELLED AND THE IMPORTANCE OF GETTING TO LECTURES WAS DWARFED BY THE THREAT OF A PSYCHOTIC SERIAL KILLER IN THE VILLAGE.
Now, after having chance to settle in, the new members of the cast talk to AGENT2 about how Hollyoaks is their very own, albeit dream-like, university experience.
Tamaryn Payne, 23, plays Annalise Appleton. She’s a very uptight perfectionist. She puts pressure on herself to succeed and is scared of falling off the pedestal her parents have put her on. Annalise is a clean freak, she likes everything in its place and likes the steadiness of being in a relationship.
Holly Weston, 26, plays Ash Kane. Ash is fun loving, she likes a drink and is one of the lads but she does have a bit more depth to her. She studies psychology and thinks about why she is the way she is.
Tom Scurr, 21, plays Barney Harper-McBride. Barney is lovely. He’s a real fish out of water – wonderfully posh and had complete reality check when he arrived in Hollyoaks. He’s nice though, not pretentious or up himself and not the type to splash the cash. He is keen to adapt so he can be absorbed into the Hollyoaks way of life. It’s one massive adventure for him because everything is new and he has started to fit in for the 1st time.
James Atherton, 24, plays Will Savage. Will is geeky, in a cool way and really into studies. He is coming out of shell with his new mates because he was always overshadowed by his brother. He’s getting more confident. He will still be into his studies but become a bit more extrovert as people do when they get to uni and start being comfortable with people.
Calvin Denba, 18, plays Scott Sabeka. He’s very laid back and has a cheekiness about him. He appears confident but he lacks self-belief at the same time because he doesn’t have the drive to fully go for anything. He is a bit half hearted and quite sensitive in his own way. He’s not the energy of the group he just keeps everything bang in the middle.
David Atkins, 22, plays Rob Edwards – He’s not the typical jock, he’s a bit different and has a sensitive side. He knows when he’s done wrong and he’s a good pal.
Meeting this year’s intake of students at Hollyoaks College feels very real. Though I know I am meeting actors, most of whom are playing characters years younger than they are, walking into the set of the university halls takes me back to my student days. It isn’t only the surroundings; the bond between the group of actors has a distinctly student-like vibe. They have all moved to a new place to start something new, the token student banter is rife and they swap tasting notes from the new edition of Irn Bru as if it were a 1989 Chateauneuf Du Pape. Now comfortably settled into Hollyaoks, the new recruits reflect on their version of a university experience.
How did you prepare for the roles of students?
Tom: I’ve known people who have been at uni and visited friends in halls, seeing people putting jam on a digestive for the first time, I thought it was genius. You see people and get an idea of what it’s like to be a student.
Tamarin: Our characters are a good cross section of students though mine is a bit more far-fetched because she’s trying to be an adult not just a student.
How have you settled in to Hollyoaks?
Tom: Great, very well, everyone is so nice and friendly.
Holly: I was worried, thinking these beautiful people would be bitchy but there isn’t one person I don’t get on with.
Tom: We’re part of the family now. You get absorbed very quickly. You get thrown into work straight away. It’s a very quick process.
Scott: It’s easy because everyone’s so nice and we had James to show us the ropes. Everyone’s pretty sound and it’s easy to ask questions because everyone’s so willing to help. The older characters seemed to take me under their wing. Nick (Pickard, who plays Holloaks veteran Tony) has been really nice to me. He brought me to football games and gave me a kit. It really made me feel comfortable.
David: Social stuff outside the show helps, we have such a laugh it doesn’t really feel like work.
Were you fans of the show before you joined the cast?
Tom: I used to be a total addict when I was younger. I hadn’t seen it for a while before this but now it’s quite absorbing. There’s some really good stuff coming out, not what people would expect. Everyone loved the wedding and I think people are surprised by the quality now. The writers and producers are really listening to what people are saying and constantly adapting the show which is pushing the quality up and up.
We’ve got exciting stuff coming up around new year. We can’t say – don’t mention the war. All I can say it that we are all together and there will be a location shoot. It’s juicy and exciting with some new characters. Now stop.
How did your family react to seeing you on the show?
Holly (who flashed in a bar in her first episode): My brother watched it, he was like, hmm nice first episode. I think he saw a bit much but thought it was good stuff besides that.
Tamarin: My dad never watched a soap and now he has to he is loving it. He’s 72 and watching Hollyoaks first look – we’re definitely bringing in new audiences!
Scott: My sister and mum are heavily into it, the fact I’m on it is only a bit of a touch really – mum doesn’t have to see my ugly mug anymore.
My auntie rang my mum during one scene where I was on the phone to my mum in the show – she had a go at her for ringing me while I was working.
David: My mum starting clapping like the nutty professor. My brothers see stuff in my character that I bring to it and laugh about it because it’s just the stupid things I do around the house.
James: For me it’s more my mates. My character is so different to me in real life so they find it hilarious.
Would you describe yourselves as typical students?
Tom: There are some aspects which are quite typical – we each bring something different and there’s a bit of edge to our characters.
Holly: Really nice group, everybody is a character, it’s nice to see them interact because they’re all so different.
Scott: We’re all from different spectrums – Barney’s very posh, Scott is working class, there’s even someone who lives in a caravan. It’s a nice mixture.
Check out more from Hollyoaks at E4.com
Interviewer Elizabeth Horsfall Images Lucy Sharratt
BELFAST – SHOPPING, MUSIC AND FASHION
FASHION, MUSIC, SHOPPING, CULTURE, HOSPITALITY… WHAT MORE COULD ONE WANT FROM LOVELY BELFAST. A CITY SO SMALL BUT VIBRANT, IT WILL SIMPLY TAKE YOUR BREATH AWAY!
A weekend getaway to Belfast was on the cards. Flying from London Stanstead on Bmibaby. The journey to and fro was 55 minutes. Landing at Belfast City Airport was quick and efficient. The service on board Bmibaby was very good, the seats are spacious and the leg room is wide which is enough room for your handbag.
Fitzwilliam is a 5 star hotel located in the heart of Belfast, a unique gem of contemporary living. The hotel’s chic relaxed style is reflected in it’s service policy which is friendly and efficient, yet discreet and unobtrusive. As I entered, I was greeted by the Concierge team, check in was very easy, grabbed the key and off I went. As soon as I entered my room, I was amazed, it took my breath away. The room was quite airy with a personal sanctuary feel to it with relaxation in mind. Wonderfully comfortable beds draped in crisp white Egyptian linen, power showers and relaxing baths, designer toiletries to ensure you have a sublime stay. Bathroom is enticed with a large mirror, a walk in shower and a nice comfortable bathtub. The dresser is equipped with the essentials, I was greeted by a nice bottle of wine and dark chocolates. If you like spacious fashionable surroundings then the Fitzwilliam is definitely for you.
Later that evening pre dinner drinks and canapes were on the cards at the bar. Champagne, French Raspberry Martinis, Kiwi Bellini’s and Canapes were on the table before I could say a word. Each had an exquisite taste and the bar staff were great. Dinner was planned at Menu Restaurant, menu overseen by Michelin Star-Restauranteur Kevin Thornton. The décor was high class, as soon as I stepped out of the elevator I knew I had entered fine dining. The menu looked mouth watering, the staff were very attentive, it was a joy to sit where they took note of everything you wanted. For starters I opted for Roast Garlic and Fennel Veloute which was a soup, very rich and creamy with basil pesto swimming on top, to follow I opted for Raviolo of Mozzarella, Ragout of Roma Tomatoes, Confit Fennel and Roast Red Capsicum, the presentation was a delight, a work of art, I almost didn’t want to ruin the presentation. But as I was so hungry I dived in, and the flavours exploded in my mouth, a warm abundance of the red capsicum, the fennel almost aniseed like complimented the mozzarella well. Water was flowing and the wine too, never short of a dry mouth. The dessert menu was so vast, I decided to go for the most colourful fruity option of Pineapple Carpaccio Passion Fruit Sorbet and Coconut Ice cream, it was like sunshine on a plate, wow!
After dinner I headed out to The Crown Liquor Saloon, a traditional irish pub, the décor inside was superficial. I was told the ceilings are black due to the smokers, they tried cleaning it and it looked so horrible underneath that they decided to leave it as it was. The floor was laid in mosaic tiles, vigorous wood carvings throughout, ornate mirrors, wooden columns with Corinthian capitals and feathered motifs in gold. Painted and etched glass is everywhere you look. The long red granite topped bar is divided by columns and faced with coloured tiles.
Saturday was about strictly shopping and more food. I received a nice goodie bag of Matilda and Archer Travel products. I headed off to Una Rodden Couture on Upper Arthur Street, the dresses, jewellery were all so gorgeous. Headwear and Jewellery by bridal designer Catherine B were simply mystical, a bride-to be would be so lucky to have a custom handmade one off piece by Catherine. Also featured in the shop is Grainne Maher Millinery – bespoke headwear from a range of couture hats, fascinators, tiaras and corsages.
I love chocolate so when I went to Co Couture I was in absolute heaven. I tried four different kinds of chocolates, from solid dark coco to the finest smooth french beans. I was easily stimulated, the aromas were hitting the back of my throat. If you love all things chocolate from drinking to cooking to eating, and want that something extra special, Co Couture is the place to go, you won’t be left disappointed.
Once I had a little taste of Co Couture I headed off to St Georges Food, Craft and Antique Market in the Town Centre. As I walked in, my nose caught the quiff air of fish, and that smell literally makes me sick, so I had to hold my nose. Walked around and came across different stalls of food, sweets, drinks, jewellery, clothes etc. The stall that took my fancy was the Sweet Trees and the Glass Bottle Stall. A nice cultural shock to see a jazz band playing beautiful mellow tones and people sitting, eating with friends and family, a nice community coming together.
Any girl loves jewellery and the weird and wonderful things in life, Stray is for you, like it is definitely for me too. Stray is a cute quirky shop offering hand-crafted jewellery, owned by Julie Stray. Stray has a range of costume jewellery, fun gifts for quirky kids, sweet stuff for your home, weird ‘n’ wonderful stationery, and those pieces that will make you stand out from the crowd, because no body likes a sheep. It’s definitely a stand out from the usual boring high street shops.
I went inside Victoria Square Shopping Centre and went straight to the top of the dome, if you are scared of heights this isn’t for you, but I must say the 360 degree panoramic views are amazing, took the elevator right to the top floor and once I descended out I saw what was truly stunning.
Situated in the town centre on Arthur Street was Avoca – a family run company that spans one of the world’s oldest surviving manufacturers and Ireland’s most exciting stores and cafes. The shop was beautifully decorated, felt as though I belong there as I walked in. Went upstairs to the cafe for lunch. The setting and atmosphere was calm yet lively, just the kind of atmosphere one needs after walking around the shops, a good place to put your feet up and chill. With wooden tables and seating areas, on the table was a jug of water with fresh mint inside, refreshing after a long morning. The lunch menu looked appetising, spoilt for choice as always. I opted for the Salt and Pepper Calamari with Lemon & Basil Mayonnaise and Sweet Chilli Dip, it was very yummy, presented on a wooden board, with a bit of green salad. After lining my stomach I wondered off to have a look around on the ground floor, I came across some porcelain china teapots, it reminded me of when I was a little girl, my grandmother would pour tea out of one every morning. Avoca looks to create colour, fun and style to seek out the interesting and the beautiful.
Next on the hotlist was Lizzie Agnew in the Fountain Centre on College Street. Lizzie makes fabulous vintage and antique style dresses and gowns from the most glamourous eras of the 1930s and the 1950s. Her studio was of a large size, her sewing machine so old school took me back to the days where my grandmother had one. I got to see the wonderful wedding, bridesmaid dresses and the beautiful veils and corsages. One of the most anticipated dress still under construction is the ‘Titanic Dress’, truly astonishing, cant wait to see the completed piece. Her showroom is every girl’s fantasy, gorgeous silk gowns and soft fabrics.
I was looking forward to visiting Lisburn Road, it is one of the finest shopping districts in the UK, currently nominated for Best Fashion Street by Google Maps. With over 100 businesses catering for every taste, it has never been more diverse, exciting and appealing. As I went down the stairs of Bedeck I came across Jacob street, which is owned by stylist Maureen Collins. The boutique offers original and quirky alternatives to the high street. The boutique features an array of hand-picked designer jewellery, home accessories, ornate furniture, and desirable vintage clothing. Maureen has incredible taste, the boutique was wonderfully set out, I found the bird cages and head fascinators lovely, its affordable glamour. Definitely one of my favourite vintage boutiques.
Last stop was Innocent Chaos created by local textile artist Sharon Hay. Innocent Chaos is a fashion and jewellery range that speaks of a world almost forgotten in adulthood. It’s a collection of bespoke jewellery designed to add a sense of playfulness and excitement to every outfit. Although it was a small studio, it had some of her best work, like the custom designed shoes, bridal brooches and vintage bouquets made out of buttons.
After a tiring day, dinner was at Love and Death located on the high street. The interior was simple, I did like the hanging bicycle from the ceiling, I started the night off with a Strawberry Daiquiri, the food menu was simple yet mouth watering. My eyes went straight to the Goats Cheese in Beetroot with Honey Glazed Walnuts and for mains the Fancy Fish and Chips. Presentation of both dishes were phenomenal, the goats cheese looked ravishing, and the fancy fish and chips on a wooden board, chips presented in a little cup like you get when your on the beach. The Goats cheese in Beetroot was very tasty, the flavours created an explosion, not too sweet or bitter, just cleansed my palette well before having the fish and chips. I would highly recommend both dishes, they weren’t too filling so had room for dessert. For dessert I opted for the Apple Tart with Peanut Butter Ice Cream and White Chocolate Parfait. My taste-buds were in overdrive. The staff were a delight, the food went down well and the drinks were flowing. Love and death is the kind of place that appeals to foodies, clubbers, live music lovers and cocktail drinkers.
My last day in Belfast, I wasn’t looking forward to going back to London. I was very excited about the Spa appointment at the Merchant Hotel. I needed to relax and unwind after two long days. As I arrived I was taken down the spirally wooden steps, unwinding to the basement where it was dark and airy. Sat down on the big white comfy chair to do a quick consult. As I dipped into the hydrotherapy pool the bubbles and the force came gushing towards me, it felt wonderful and I felt relaxed and calm, the stress was released and I went into zen mode. Next on my list was the sauna, as I love heat, it was perfect for me to just sit and relax and not think about anything. It was an incredible experience, the only downfall was the hotbeds weren’t hot enough. I was called for my 25 minute back massage by Carol, my masseuse, she was friendly and attentive to my needs, Carol used a chamomile and lavender herbal oil to de-stress and take out the knots on my upper back area. She applied medium pressure which I was very happy with. It felt as though a pile of bricks had been lifted off my shoulders and I could feel normal again. It was one of the best massages and spa experiences I’ve had.
After detoxing I was rather thirsty and hungry, so headed off to Berts Bar for a Jazz Brunch. Berts Bar is situated inside the Merchant Hotel and it encapsulates sleek elegance of the art-deco era, complimented by the very best in live jazz. It has a timeless setting transporting you back to the chic intimate jazz setting of 1930s New York. A French bistro style menu was presented to me, had a whizz through and chose the Portavogie Prawn Tagliatelle with chilli pistou, courgette, toasted pine nuts and garlic bread. It was the best option for me as it was light, fresh and gentle. The service was also exemplary.
It was a brilliant weekend in Belfast, highly recommended to anyone wanting a city break. The people are very friendly, and everything is literally at your doorstep. MTV EMA’s will be held at the Odyssey Arena on 6th November 2011. I would recommend visiting in April 2012 as the centenary of Titanic’s maiden voyage sees the opening of the the state-of-the-art six storey Titanic Belfast visitor attraction, built at the head of the slipways from which Titanic was built and launched.
INFORMATION
Low cost airline, bmibaby, offers daily flights to Belfast City Airport (just minutes from the city centre) from East Midlands Airport and Birmingham Airport and a frequent service from London Stanstead. Recently voted Best Low Cost Airline by the readers of Conde Nast Traveller, fares start from just £14.99 one way including taxes. For further information or to book a flight visit: www.bmibaby.com
I stayed at the Fitzwilliam Hotel on Great Victoria Street in the heart of Belfast City Centre. The designer hotel has a host of packages including Autumn offers from £120 per double room per night, breakfast and a 2-course evening meal: www.fitzwilliamhotelbelfast.com
For more information on what to see and do in Belfast, visit: www.gotobelfast.com
Katrina Doran Editor of Sugahfix.com
Sugahfix.com is Northern Ireland’s No.1 online guide to fashion, beauty, entertainment and style for fashion-conscious females. Winner of Best Blog at NISMA’s, Sugahfix.com is the go-to website to fill up your social calendar and get inspired with ideas on what to wear. Visitors to Belfast should check out Sugahfix.com’s Style section to get an insight into the style of Belfast fashionistas. The VIP Directory is a must to plan your shopping trips for all the best boutiques, indulgent spas, top salons and the sweetest treats, as well as current discounts and special offers. Log onto www.sugahfix.com
Words Priya Kerai
BRITAIN & IRELAND’S NEXT TOP MODEL LIVE 2011
November 1, 2011 by Editor
Filed under SOCIAL DIARY
FASHIONISTAS AND FANS OF THE TV SHOW BRITAIN & IRELAND’S NEXT TOP MODEL GATHERED AT THE EXCEL HOUSE TO CELEBRATE FASHION, BEAUTY AND GLAMOUR.
The event offered the latest beauty treatments (manicures, pedicures, massage, professional make up, laser teeth whitening, fake tan, hair removal treatments, boob jobs, hair extensions…), fashion trends, workshops and the chance to get spotted by top model agencies.
Joey Bevan, the official fashion designer of BINTM, presented his latest collection, “Land of the Lost Toys”, inspired by Tim Burton fantasy’s world and Lady Gaga.
TOWIE’s star Lauren Goodger presented her hair extension range and also, Amy Childs launched her brand new womenswear collection.
All of the girls from series seven made their catwalk debut at the BINTM live tour, where they modelled different outfits from designers such as Jayne Pierson, Alice Vandy, Elle Mcpherson, Austin Reed and Firetrap. The band Luminites and the Swedish singer Bluey Robinson entertained the audience with their dazzling performances.
Truly girly and fun, the event was the perfect excuse to get pampered, do shopping and taste the BINTM lifestyle!
Words and images Verónica Carpio Martín
HARPER’S BAZAAR: GREATEST HITS
GLENDA BAILEY IS ARGUABLY ONE OF THE MOST PROMINENT WOMEN IN FASHION. SINCE BEING MADE EDITOR- IN -CHIEF OF HARPER’S BAZAAR SHE HAS TRANSFORMED THE MAGAZINE. IN CELEBRATION OF HER TEN YEARS AT THE MAGAZINE, SHE HAS TEAMED UP WITH CREATIVE DIRECTOR STEPHEN GAN TO PRODUCE A COLLECTION OF THE MOST STUNNING PHOTOGRAPHS TITLED ‘HARPER’S BAZAAR: GREATEST HITS’. JENNIFER BUTLER SPOKE TO GLENDA BAILEY ABOUT HER NEW BOOK.
Why did you decide to release a collection of photographs featured in Harper’s Bazaar and why did it seem like the right time now?
I wanted to celebrate the work of all the fantastic photographers, stylists and writers that I have been privileged to work with at Bazaar over the last 10 years. When Stephen Gan and I started at Bazaar a decade ago, we wanted to create a joyful tribute to the world’s best fashion, talent and artistry each month.
How did you choose the pictures that went in to this book? Are they personal favourites?
As I edited the book last summer, I was struck by how many remarkable images I had to choose from. I have so many favourites, but in particular; Jean Paul Goude’s fantastical portraits of Naomi Campbell, William Klein’s portfolio of designers and their team (Lanvin’s Alber Elbaz brought a bus full of people), Peter Lindbergh’s cover of Kate Winslet hovering over the Manhattan skyline, Demi Moore and the giraffe, Marc Jacobs and Winona Ryder recreating ‘Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf’ and sending the Simpsons to Paris (Marc Jacobs even got a tattoo of his Simpsonized self on his arm)
Why did you decide to realise a book of pictures rather than features of interviews?
We included a feature or interview from each decade in this book, but we had a lot of brilliant work to choose from, which leaves another opportunity for the next book!
What do you look for in a photograph to make it onto the pages of Harper’s Bazaar?
It must be iconic and epic.
What photographer have you been most proud to work with? Did you have any lifelong dreams?
Richard Avedon – I got to meet him on the first day on the job at Harper’s Bazaar, and it’s been a highlight of my career.
Harper’s Bazaar: Greatest hits is published by Abrams and Chronicle and available now at Amazon.
Words Jennifer Butler Images Harper’s Bazaar
