|
From GayWired.com:
In Pictures : Vampire Face-Off
By GayWired Staff | Article Date: 8/01/2009 9:00 AM
 The allure of vampires is nothing new, but as the blood sucking immortals reach a fever pitch in hotness, GayWired’s assembled the sexiest undead characters for a face off. With vampires from True Blood, Twilight, The Lair, and Buffy The Vampire Slayer, settle the score once and for all!
Between Twilight’s Edward Cullen (a character whose epic heat is equally comprised of fictional renderings and the real life inhabitant Robert Pattinson), and True Blood’s Eric Northman embodied by sexy Swede Alexander Skarsgard, vampire fantasies have gone into overdrive the world over.
But all this is nothing new.
The dark and dangerous lure of vampires on screen has been a formula for success for years now. It worked for the gorgeous, good intentioned Angel as the tortured lover of the slayer back on Buffy, and Brad Pitt was undeniably erogenous as Louis in the great film adaptation of Anne Rice’s Interview With a Vampire long before there were books about a bitter babe named Bella.
[Continue reading, more photos, voting...]
08/01/2009 ~ http://www.gaywired.com/Article.cfm?ID=23481 |
|
From Examiner.com:
Republican Examiner gets taste of TrueBlood: hanging out with Charlaine Harris
It can’t be all work and no play for the Orlando Republican Examiner; especially when he also happens to be a fiction writer and there’s a nearby gathering of authors with whom to share stories about the  publishing trade; and from whom to learn as much as possible about the writing craft.
For the past three days, the Anhinga Writers’ Studio Summer Workshops have been held in Gainesville, bringing together published and unpublished authors in all genres and from all parts of the country. The Republican Examiner has been attending this conference for several years, since it was known as ‘Writing the Region’ and dedicated to Pulitzer Prize winner Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, a resident of nearby Cross Creek, and author of the classic novel The Yearling. However, under its new sponsors, the workshops have taken a broader scope, and attract a more diverse group of well known authors.
New York Times bestselling author of The Monsters of Templeton Laura Groff, mistress of multiple mysteries Rhys Bowen, creator of detective/archaeologist Faye Longchamp Mary Anna Evans, and suspense romance writer Roxanne St. Claire were among the luminaries in attendance. But the highlight of the workshops was the uncontested superstar of contemporary vampire novels Charlaine Harris.
Ms. Harris is the creator of the Sookie Stackhouse character, who has starred in nine novels, beginning with blockbuster Dead until Dark, and brought to the screen in the HBO original series True Blood. There is no question that Sookie has caught fire as a popular character. On Thursday afternoon, Charlaine was interviewed by workshop organizer Bev Browning, a well known author in her own right. Afterward, she made herself available to her fans for questions and then autographed books for over two hours, until each of the hundreds of mostly young admirers had an opportunity to spend a moment with her favorite author.
[Continue reading...]
08/01/2009 ~ http://www.examiner.com/x-5325-Orlando-Republican-Examiner~y2009m8d1-Republican-Examiner-gets-taste-of-TrueBlood-hanging-out-with-Charlaine-Harris |
|
From AdAge.com:
Vampires Attack Twitter! (Twitter Lives to Tell About It)
by Simon Dumenco
Published: July 31, 2009
| | | | | Key: twilight (source: News Stories from Google) true blood (source: Number of Matching Twitter Posts per Day) twilight (source: Number of Matching Twitter Posts per Day) |
On the next episode of "The Martha Stewart Show," Robert Pattinson from "Twilight" and Stephen Moyer from "True Blood" will share their recipes for blood pudding, with a studio audience taste-test determining the winner!
OK, not really, but given the continuing pop-cultural vampire mania, I'm half-expecting it. In the meantime, let's turn to the Twitter tape -- and Google News -- for the word on which blood-sucking franchise has had more mindshare lately. A few observations:
[Continue reading...]
08/01/2009 ~ http://adage.com/mediaworks/article?article_id=138218 |
|
From Fangoria.com:
The Authors of DRACULA: THE UN-DEAD
Saturday, August 01, 2009 05:11 AM | Cameron & Pamela Koller
 To scholars of gothic and classic horror literature, the idea of writing a sequel to one of the crown jewels of horror culture, Bram Stoker’s original text Dracula, must sound like literary rape of the most criminal sort. Yet, this is not the simplistic cash-in that some may accuse it of being. The trio of Stoker descendant Dacre Stoker, Ian Holt, and Michael Kuciak acknowledge monetary value as a motivating factor, but have more complex goals alongside the obvious one.
Holt and Kuciak had initially tracked down Dacre’s uncle to tackle the project of writing a screenplay-sequel to Dracula. However, the Stoker family’s relationship to Hollywood had always been very negative, since Bram Stoker and his lawyers had failed to procure a worthwhile exchange for the book’s copyright. One search through ancestry.com later, Michael, Tim, and the family were put in contact with one another. The uncle unwilling, Holt tracked down Dacre from the next generation and set about writing a book instead over the next five years.
Copyright, as well as the deteriorating quality of Dracula’s cinematic adaptations, lie at the heart of this project’s objectives. Since Coppola’s adaptation of the story, adaptations since have abused the copyright and lost sight of what makes Count Dracula such a compelling character. With this book, Kuciak hopes to put the rights to the novel back into the hands of the Stoker family. In addition, there are plans to found a Bram Stoker foundation with a portion of the proceeds, which will fund a bust for Stoker in Dublin and at the Lyceum Theater where he made his living to go up on the one-hundredth anniversary of his death in 2012.
Perhaps most importantly, however, the team wishes to bring a new fandom to DRACULA in the wake of such vampire franchises as BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER, TRUE BLOOD (based on the Sookie Stackhouse Novels by Charlaine Harris) and Stephenie Meyer's TWILIGHT SAGA. While there are plans to subtly update the themes of the first book, they plan to keep the core of the novel intact for this younger crowd. Plot strands left untied in the first novel will be explored this time around, with new mysteries to replace them. After all, the primary purpose of this novel for its creators is to preserve the essence of the character that is so dear to them for future generations to experience and explore.
[Continue reading...]
08/01/2009 ~ http://www.fangoria.com/features/21-fearful-features/3456-the-authors-of-dracula-the-un-dead.html |
|
Thanks to EricNorthman.net for the wonderful scans!
From Entertainment Weekly:
(Click on images to enlarge.)
In late June, Stephen Moyer referred to Robert Pattinson as a very bad word.
Now, Entertainment Weekly is stoking the fire of this red hot feud by pitting the
actors against one another on the cover of its latest issue.
Based on the success of the Twilight Saga and True Blood, the magazine asks why pop culture is currently embracing this genre with such enthusiasm.
“The traditional vampire story, with monsters and victims, chases and chills, is plain fun,” Alan Ball, a producer on True Blood, said in response to this question.
“But they can often reveal the general state of the cultural psyche.”
Hollywood isn’t done with sucking up the public’s taste for blood, either. This fall, The Vampire Diaries premieres on The CW.
This all started years ago, however, as Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt made hearts melt in Interview with the Vampire, the 1994 movie that helped launch the career of both these A-listers.
08/01/2009 ~ http://www.ericnorthman.net/gallery/thumbnails.php?album=144
and ~ http://www.theinsider.com/news/2627763_Entertainment_News_Magazine_Pits_Robert_Pattinson_Against_Stephen_Moyer |
|
And if you're in the Memphis area - from MemphisFlyer.com:
Can't Afford Cable? Get Your True Blood Fix at Mary's
Posted by Bianca Phillips on Fri, Jul 31, 2009 at 4:44 PM Times are tough, and maybe you've had to cancel your cable subscription. Now what will you ever do without your weekly dose of True Blood or Entourage?  On July 30th, HBO announced the hit vampire show True Blood will be renewed for a third season next summer, and the Hollywood-based comedy Entourage will see a seventh season next year. Until you can afford to renew your subscription, catch the current seasons of both shows on the large HD television screen at Mary's Memphis (405 N. Cleveland) during Stimulus Sundays every week. While you're there, take advantage of crazy awesome drink specials like 75 cent drafts and $1.25 longnecks until midnight.
07/31/2009 ~ http://www.memphisflyer.com/MemphisGaydar/archives/2009/07/31/cant-afford-cable-get-your-true-blood-fix-at-marys |
|
From TV.ign.com:
True Blood Preview: "Release Me" The war is approaching. Are you ready?
In "Release Me," Sookie (Anna Paquin) uses her telepathic powers to connect to Bill (Stephen Moyer), but it isn't clear what he can do at this point. He's literally being held against his will by his maker and it looks like Sookie and her new friend Hugo (Christopher Gartin) may be stuck in the church.
Meanwhile, Jason (Ryan Kwanten) is fearful of what Steve (Michael McMillian) may do when he finds out he's been having sex with his wife, Sara (Anna Camp), and tries to flee the Fellowship of the Sun. Jason doesn't get far when he gets plenty of resistance from Steve and Gabe (Greg Collins).
Tune in and check out "Release Me" when True Blood airs on Sunday, August 2nd at 9:00pm ET on HBO.
In the meantime, if you're impatient in waiting for the new episode, pass some time at our True Blood message board or hit up our dedicated True Blood portal, where you can find all of the latest True Blood reviews, news and information.
07/31/2009 ~ http://tv.ign.com/articles/100/1009641p1.html |
|
Interview of Alexander Skarsgard from Milwaukee's FM102.1:
[Or listen here... Original audio source (20090728112048.intv_alexander_s.mp3)]
07/31/2009 ~ http://www.fm1021milwaukee.com/ |
|
New True Blood Promo - Thanks to Shadaliza & True Blood Guide!
07/31/2009 |
|
| *Minor Spoilers* | *Minor Spoilers* | *Minor Spoilers* |
Incredible interview of Michelle Forbes from TheTelevixen.com:
Polaris 23 – True Blood Tidbits from Michelle Forbes!
What better way to follow up last night’s epic reveal on True Blood than some words from Maryann herself?
Over this past weekend, Michelle Forbes was part of TCON’s Polaris 23 just outside of Toronto, and she had some interesting little tidbits to share on True Blood and what’s to come during the Fan Q and A Sunday afternoon.
What was your reaction to the description of Maryann’s first appearance in your first True Blood script, i.e. “walking naked in the middle of the road at night – with a pig”?
All you can say is bring it – let’s go. I knew I was going to need to take some vitamins because it was going to be one hell of a ride.
What is the significance of the pig, and have we seen the last of it yet?
I can’t really say anything except that you will find out what happens with that oinker!
Speaking of the pig, as someone who is active with animal rights, have you gotten to know the pig and its handlers?
Yes, in fact there are two pigs, sisters. I’ve gotten to know them, their wranglers and trainers, and they have wonderful lives. Everyone on set gets very excited when the pigs are going to make an appearance. Except one of the pigs didn’t like a crew member, a grip, and actually charged him on set during the dollhouse scene with Chris Bauer (Det. Andy Bellefleur).
How aware are you of True Blood’s soundtrack?
Music plays an enormous role on True Blood. I’ve been a fan of music supervisor Gary Calamar for ages, since his show on KCRW in LA. When we get a script, the music is already laid in, and each episode is named after a song. With every script I get, I download the music and listen to it, use it as a soundtrack for rehearsing and filming, to really ignite the imagination. I find it ends up costing me a lot of money, because I end up discovering other music. Before I know it, I’ve downloaded $250 worth of music, so reading a script can become costly! He searches for local talent and really brings that element to the show. The music adds texture to the storytelling – Calamar is to True Blood like Bear McCreary is to BSG.
[Continue reading...]
07/31/2009 ~ http://thetelevixen.com/2009/07/true-blood-tidbits-michelle-forbes/ |
|
From BloodCopy.com:
IMMUNE
There’s been a good deal of discussion about healthcare lately. Attempts to broaden coverage of medical expenses for citizens across the country. I don’t pay much attention. I don’t need to. I’m a vampire.
Most people don’t consider this when they think about the undead. Breathers are so focused on our quasi-immortal lifespan, how we don’t age and, barring a specific (and short) list of conditions, we do not die, they seldom note another critical aspect of our existence:
Vampires don’t get sick.
Yes, failing to feed or rest can weaken us, and there are still some ailments that can affect us (Hepatitis D being a big one). But practically speaking, we are immune. We never get colds, fevers, upset stomachs. We do not fear coronary disease, kidney failure, or deadly strains of virus. A vampire will never require a decongestant, pain reliever, or even an antacid after over-eating.
Our health is so infrequently a consideration, it’s easy to forget altogether how fragile our bodies once were.
I am as guilty of this as any vampire. Though I was turned only a short time ago, I find it difficult to remember what it feels like to be ill. But I will do my best to keep it in mind. Any time I miss the sunset, accidentally contact silver, or bemoan the limitations of being at rest when most of the world is in motion, I will remember that I will always have my health. Countless others are not so lucky.
07/31/2009 ~ http://bloodcopy.com/?p=1048 |
|
Alexander Skarsgard and soccer - from Goal.com:
Canales Daily: Keeping The Faith In The Feeders Hammarby fans and others, unite and celebrate the kinship of sporting loyalty that goes deeper than wins or losses - yes, even many losses. Jul 31, 2009 2:08:49 AM | By Andrea Canales
It might not have been the best idea, given that he was attending a promotional event for FC Barcelona, but Swedish actor Alexander Skarsgard didn't show up wearing the famed purply-blue and red uniform of the Catalan champions.
Skarsgard was wearing green and white, instead - a Hammarby jersey. As he explained this, there was a chorus of boos from the spectators in the Nike Ricardo Montalban theater in Los Angeles. The audience was all about Barcelona, and they had little tolerance for any divided loyalty.
Skarsgard tried to explain. He mentioned that as a Swede, he was excited to be there to support Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the Swedish player recently signed by FC Barcelona.
"Soccer in Sweden is like a religion," Skarsgard said, "Growing up in Sweden, in the south of Stockholm, we supported Hammarby."
He paused briefly.
"They're terrible," Skarsgard continued. "We don't really have any good players. We don't have any money. We almost always lose. It's not a lot of fun."
[Continue reading...]
07/31/2009 ~ http://www.goal.com/en-us/news/1696/andrea-canales/2009/07/31/1413980/canales-daily-keeping-the-faith-in-the-feeders |
|
From Entertainment Weekly - PopWatch.ew.com:
This week's cover:Vampires! Jul 31 2009 09:43 AM ET
 This week’s Entertainment Weekly delivers the ultimate guide to vampires. You’ll find interviews with the authors behind Twilight and True Blood, our list of the 20 greatest bloodsuckers ever, and Anne Rice’s pick for the best new vampire — as well as a talk with her about how she revolutionized the vampire legend decades ago with Interview with a Vampire.
With Twilight a phenomenon, True Blood attracting converts by the millions, and hordes of new vampire projects looming in the shadows, bloodsuckers are haunting every corner of our lives: bookstores, television, movies, and more. Why has pop culture thrown open its door and invited them in? “The traditional vampire story, with monsters and victims, chases and chills, is more plain fun,” says True Blood’s executive producer Alan Ball. “But they can often reveal the general state of the cultural psyche.”
Vampires are such versatile symbols now that they can express both conservative and liberal views. Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight novels are steeped in her Mormon values. But True Blood speaks in part for gays and, as Ball puts it, “eight years of institutionalized demonization of pretty much any group that wasn’t on the bus with Mr. Bush.”
[Continue reading...]
07/31/2009 ~ http://popwatch.ew.com/2009/07/31/this-weeks-cover-vampires/ |
|
From Forbes.com:
HBO Shows Its Fangs
Lacey Rose, 07.30.09, 08:55 PM EDT
'True Blood' helps hit-starved network get back on track.
 LOS ANGELES -- For a one-time hit-maker short on hits, HBO has a fascination with fangs to thank for its renewed success.
After a couple of years with little to brag about--much less bring in more paying subscribers--the attention and viewership True Blood has delivered marks something of a turnaround for a premium cable network that had fallen on hard times. With a weekly cumulative audience of 11.2 million viewers thus far this season, the vampire series has quietly become the network's most watched series since The Sopranos.
[Continue reading...]
07/30/2009 ~! http://www.forbes.com/2009/07/30/hbo-true-blood-business-entertainment-tv.html |
|
From TheWrap:
Subscriptions, Ratings Rise for Showtime, HBO
July 30, 2009, 3:31PM CDT
By Daniel Frankel
It's not just "True Blood" that has bite. So do "Entourage," "Hung" and "Nurse Jackie." Indeed, as ad-supported media goes up in flames, the premium cable networks are on fire. Somehow, they’re growing. Showtime added 674,000 new subscribers in the first quarter of this year, at a time when the TV ad market was down double digits and the major broadcast networks were laying off staff, according to data just released by Kagan Research, HBO added 35,000 subscribers during the same period, while Starz brought in another 380,000. All three networks were up in the fourth quarter, too. “It’s just a very good time for us,” said Matt Blank, chairman and CEO of Showtime. “Regardless of the cost of subscription cable, consumers see staying home and watching premium channels as a cost-efficient use of their dollars.” “People are starting to spend their money more wisely, and premium cable is a very good value for the cost,” added Dave Baldwin, executive VP of program planning for HBO. “For the price of taking the family to one movie, you can afford all of HBO.”
The numbers of the shows themselves bear this out. Look at "True Blood," riding the crest of vampire-mania. In its second season, the HBO favorite is up 39 percent in the ratings over its first season. It's the first real breakout hit for the network, which had been languishing a bit following the departures of “The Sopranos” and programming guru Chris Albrecht in 2007. “True Blood” is averaging 10.8 million across platforms ranging from linear TV to DVR viewing to on on-demand services.
[Continue reading...]
07/30/2009 ~ http://www.thewrap.com/article/subscriptions-ratings-rise-showtime-hbo_4718 |
|
What's the deal? We've seen Sookie's 'goods', what about actor of 'Hung'?
From LATimes.com:
TCA Press Tour: 'Hung's' mystery continues
06:18 PM PT, Jul 30 2009
 Inquiring minds at the HBO session of Thursday's press tour want to know: Why haven’t we seen Ray’s “winning tool” yet? After all, viewers see plenty all of Sookie, and then some, on the network’s “True Blood.”
“We have not shown his penis -- yet,” said executive producer Colette Burson, who tried to explain why a shot of his most marketable asset hasn’t made its way onto the show. “We see it like Plato’s penis. It’s the perfect penis. It’s perfect for everyone who comes into contact with it.”
In other words, they don’t want to let anyone down. Not yet, anyway.
Set in Detroit, “Hung” revolves around a middle-aged gym teacher-turned-gigolo who struggles with his remarried ex-wife (Anne Heche), raising two teenagers and working with his female pimp on the side. Jane Adams, who plays his pimp, Tanya, said she recently sat next to Terrence Howard on a plane and told the actor about her new role. Howard was Oscar-nominated for having played a pimp-turned rap star in 2005‘s “Hustle & Flow.”
[Continue reading...]
07/30/2009 ~ http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/showtracker/2009/07/tca-press-tour-hung-.html |
|
| *Minor Spoilers* | *Minor Spoilers* | *Minor Spoilers* |
More Comic Con Interviews - from EW.com:
'True Blood - Alan Ball: Michael Ausiello talks "True Blood" with exec producer Alan Ball at Comic-Con 2009
'True Blood' - Lafayette & Company: Sam Trammell,
Rutina Wesley and Nelsan Ellis
07/30/2009 ~ http://ausiellofiles.ew.com/2009/07/29/true-blood-maryann-and-jessica-video/#more-1620 |
|
From io9.com:
Lafayette Talks Go-Go Dancing On V-Juice,
And What's Next
By Meredith Woerner, 3:00 PM on Thu Jul 30 2009
[See video here...] Warning!! Video contains spoilers!
We got few minutes with Nelsan Ellis, and finally got to ask him WTF was with Bill and Sookie neglecting our beloved voice-of-the-viewer Lafayette Reynolds... and where do his inspirational v-juice bender dances find their inspiration?
It's been a rough year for our favorite True Blooder, Lafayette, but we're happy that it sounds like things are looking up. But seriously — if L doesn't start kicking some major ass soon (and I think that may be the case) we are going to have to host a "you're better than this" intervention. Bring back the sass, bring back the scarves.
Also let's get excited for the first character on this show who actually deserves special powers to get his reward. Hello ,super strength L.
Very important side note: This interview happened the night before the infamous Bill makes his piano cat cameo episode that aired on Sunday. So I didn't get to ask about it because I had no idea what was awaiting me the next day. Apologies, but such is life.
07/30/2009 ~ http://io9.com/5326728/lafayette-talks-go+go-dancing-on-v+juice-and-whats-next |
|
Okay ... if you really need it ... from Examiner.com:
Midseason Catch-up: True Blood, season 2 (with spoilers!)
 What a crazy ride it's been! And we're only half-way through!
The season actually started in the last few minutes of season one, when a body was found In Andy Bellefleur's car, and instead of being LaFayette, as was expected, it was Miss Jeanette, the Vodoun priestess who helped Tara and her mom get rid of their demons.
Tara doesn't want to say anything to the police about it because she doesn't want her mom to know that the lady was a fake and become a drunk again, but when she shows up, the truth comes out anyway. Lettie Mae refuses to believe it, and Maryanne defends Tara and tells off her mom. Meanwhile, LaFayette is being kept in a basement with Royce, one of the men who burned down the house with the vampires in it last season, and they figure out that everyone there has committed crimes against vampire kind. Sookie and Bill have issues with Jessica and her impatience, while Jason joins the Fellowship of the Sun and goes off to camp to learn how to serve God after impressing the leaders of the group. Tara gets closer to Eggs, and Sam takes on a new waitress to fill Dawn's position, a girl named Daphne who's sweet, but kind of klutzy. By the end of the first episode, it's revealed that Eric is holding LaFayette hostage, and it's under Fangtasia.
[Continue reading...]
07/30/2009 ~ http://www.examiner.com/x-11396-Jacksonville-TV-Examiner~y2009m7d30-Midseason-Catchup-True-Blood-season-2-with-spoilers |
|
From The Live Feed - THRfeed.com:
HBO executive session live blog...
07/30/2009
HBO communications executive Quentin Schaffer introduces the network's press tour session by declaring, "Two years ago we were feeling beat up, now we're feeling upbeat."
Programing head Michael Lombardo and co-president Richard Plepler take the stage to take questions. On the fate of The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency, the executives said the show might still return: "That show been a challenge creatively because the creative vision behind that show passed away (Anthony Minghella) so we're trying to figure that out."
On when "True Blood" will return: "The hope and expectation is to bring it back next year ... It feels like a summer show" -- Plepler.
On former programming head Chris Albrecht now being a producer. "If he has something for us we'd be delighted to hear about it" -- Plepler.
On the TV Academy likely time-shifting several of its long-form categories out of the live telecast: "We understand the need for the Academy to provide a show that's entertaining as well as a show that delivers on the promise to recognize excellence in television... we're a little disappointed how they chose to achieve that end... we're waiting to get the details" -- Lombardo
Plepler adds: "It's just odd you would minimize categories which have huge viewership and an enormous amount of talented people..."
On whether HBO might bid for the Emmy telecast in response to the change: "We have explored the Emmy Awards a number of years ago ...there was a feeling among the Academy that they wanted the show available to as big or large cross section as possible ... I don't think our response would be a defensive one to bid as a tit-for-tat." -- Lombardo.
[Continue reading...]
07/30/2009 ~ http://www.thrfeed.com/2009/07/hbo-executive-session-live-blog.html |
|
From DallasNews.com:
Rick Perry loves True Blood
2:13 PM Thu, Jul 30, 2009 | Gromer Jeffers Jr./Reporter
Gov. Rick Perry conceded Thursday that he's a fa  n of the hit HBO series "True Blood." The series is about the coexistence of humans, vampires and supernatural misfits in a small Louisiana town. "My wife watches True Blood and I from time to time take a peep at it," he said before winking his left eye. "It's an interesting show and I love the music." Perry referenced the HBO show at a local fund-raiser for the Dallas County Republican Party. He was trying to make a point about the need for Texas to have a thriving film industry. "I kind of hate to ask this, but do you all watch True Blood?" Perry asked the crowd. When several people reacted, he said: "A few of you are telling the truth."
[Continue reading...]
07/30/2009 ~ http://trailblazersblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2009/07/rick-perry-loves-true-blood.html |
|
From Santa Monica Mirror SMMirror.com:
Media: The Rise of the Vampire
Sasha Stone, Mirror Media Critic
 What is it with bloodsuckers lately? They’re everywhere - hot, sexy and in demand. The Twilight series is as popular as it’s ever been. The Twi-heads (fans) showed up in such high numbers at the recent Comic-Con that it threatened to bring down the whole thing. The passion for the lead vampire, Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson) continues to grow daily.
HBO has True Blood, which also features a brooding, reluctant vampire lead, Bill Compton (Stephen Moyer) and is slightly more explicit than Twilight. Somewhere in the middle of these two is BBC America’s new series Being Human. It isn’t as saucy as True Blood, but it isn’t as tame and maudlin as the Twilight films, which is probably a good thing all the way around.
Being Human centers on three “monsters” who are just trying to cope with daily life: a vampire, a werewolf and a ghost. It hardly sounds like this could be shaped into a really good show but it has been, thanks in large part to the writers who deliver laugh-out-loud jokes amid the horror. And it’s due to the seriousness of their individual predicaments - the ghost is in love with her ex-fiance after her sudden death. The vampire can’t really date women because eventually he’ll need to feed on them. The werewolf feels and acts the most human but every once in a while he must transform.
[Continue reading...]
07/30/2009 ~ http://www.smmirror.com/MainPages/DisplayArticleDetails.asp?eid=10677 |
|
From StatesmanJournal.com:
Singer's music has plenty of bite Headliner Jace Everett's tune adds edge to 'True Blood'
By K. Williams Brown | July 30, 2009
|
|
The British are obsessed - from GraziaDaily:
(Regarding Season 1 of True Blood)
True Blood: 10 reasons we’re obsessed
First it was The Wire, now it's True Blood. You know what I mean, the TV show you're vaguely aware is supposed to be fantastic but (whisper it) have never actually seen. So pay attention – no talking at the back – because even if you're not watching True Blood you should damn well be talking about it. Here's your print-off-and-casually-drop-in-to-pub-conversation guide to the show.
1. Practicalities first: True Blood is on FX at the moment (Friday nights at 10pm). But panic ye not, terrestrial traditionalists: it's coming to Channel 4 in October. And you can download it from iTunes. Our new secret obsession.
2. Now for the clever TV knowledge bit: the show comes from Alan Ball. As in the genius behind the spooky and powerful Six Feet Under. And the gorgeous and disturbing American Beauty? Your attention's piqued now, huh?
3. Clever TV knowledge bit (part two): Like The Wire, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Flight of the Conchords, The Sopranos, Sex And The City and almost every other amazing American TV show, True Blood was made by HBO – the premium American TV channel known for making clever shows for clever people.
4. Let's cut to the chase: this is a show about vampires. But don't be put off, even if you don't get the vamp thing. Even though it centres on a young woman's relationship with a brooding, 170-year-old vamp, True Blood isn't just another Buffy The Vampire Slayer. It's very different – not least because of the sex. There's an awful lot of it. Some of it's dirty and weird and with vampires –which is a good thing, obviously.
5. There's also an awful lot of violence – it's often weird and supernatural but heart-breakingly real at the same time.
6. The True Blood world is a fascinating place: an alternate version of the deep South, where vampires walk amongst humans and are campaigning for their rights (according to their local newspaper, Brad and Angelina have even adopted a vampire baby). The dialogue is clever and feels so real that you'll believe you're there.
7. We adore leading lady Sookie, played by Anna Paquin. From telekinetic powers to the cute gap between her teeth, she's Grazia's current Girl Crush Number 1. And her vampire suitor Bill (played by Stephen Moyer) is pretty hot too. And such a gentleman! (Well, he is almost 200 years old...) The fact that the actors are dating in real life makes the chemistry even more delicious.
8. Lafayette = our absolute, totally favourite TV character ever. (At the moment). A drug-dealing, gay, super-tough yet super-camp chef who is as mixed up as the cocktails in the bar where he works.
9. Sorry to be crude but we're rather enjoying all the gratuitous nudity from Sookie's buff brother Jason, too. The guy is hot, no two ways about it. Plus – fact fans – he used to play Vinnie in Home and Away! Not so hot!
10. Have you heard that theme music? (‘I wanna do bad things with you...') Have you seen those beguilingly weird opening credits? Fabulous.
You get the drift. We could have just said we're obsessed. But this was more fun (for us!). Are you in True Blood's truly converted camp too? And if so, are you a Bill or Jason kinda woman? Oh the points we could make about this one...
- Hannah Marriott
07/30/2009 ~ http://www.graziadaily.co.uk/talkingpoints/archive/2009/07/30/true-blood--10-reasons-we-re-obsessed.htm |
|
From AusielloFiles.EW.com:
'True Blood' scoop: Maryann and Jessica together at last
The 2010 Emmy season doesn’t officially kick off for another year, but the buzz starts right now: True Blood’s Michelle Forbes (Maryann) and Deborah Ann Woll (Jessica) better make the supporting actress cut for playing two of television’s most deliciously demarbled divas. My only complaint is that executive producer Alan Ball hasn’t put the two powerhouses in a scene together. Not yet anyway. For more on that, check out the fresh batch of Blood video — featuring interviews with Forbes, Woll, Ball, as well as Nelsan Ellis, Rutina Wesley, and Sam Trammell — after the jump.
07/29/2009 ~ http://ausiellofiles.ew.com/2009/07/29/true-blood-maryann-and-jessica-video/ |
|
Newest Promo from HBO 2x07 "Release Me":
07/29/2009 ~ |
|
From Entertainment Weekly EW.Com:
Shooting Stars: 71 Portraits From Comic-Con 2009
From EW's photo studio at the Hard Rock Hotel in San Diego: See all the Comic-Con headliners -- Anna Paquin and Stephen Moyer; Robert Downey Jr.; Kristen Bell; Scarlett Johansson; Zack Snyder; and many more! -- in our exclusive photo album: [Continue viewing...]
07/29/2009 ~ http://www.ew.com/ew/gallery/0,,20213067_20213322_20293715,00.html |
|
From IMDb - More Comic Con Pictures:
Click on each image for larger view.
07/29/2009 ~ http://www.imdb.com/media/rm1242793984/tt0844441 |
|
From TV.Sky.com:
Comic-Con 2009: True Blood Cast Vamp Talk
We caught up with the sexy cast of True Blood to find out whether they compare their show to Twilight, and what the current fascination with vampires is all about.
But be warned - there's some spoiler-y season three talk in amongst the sex and violence.
The show's modest stars Anna Paquin (Sookie) and Stephen Moyer (Bill) reckon True Blood ticks all the boxes for fantasy fans looking for cerebral television with a bit of sex thrown in for good measure.
Meanwhile Sam Trammell had a few hints about what's in store for his character, bar owner Sam Merlotte.
07/29/2009 ~ http://tv.sky.com/comic-con-2009-true-blood-cast-vamp-talk |
|
From Blood Copy:
BANKING ON BLOOD  Much has been made of vampires offering breathers the chance to experience feeding at the hands of an undead. But now it seems that breathers have gotten wise to the fact that vampires are also willing to pay for the privilege of doing the biting. It’s little surprise, then, that more and more stories are circulating of humans who make their necks available for cash, or blood hookers, as they’re more crassly known.
Men and women of all shapes, sizes and blood types are available to the discerning client. From what I’ve heard, some are willing to perform the act in public view, complete with well-rehearsed shrieks of joy (or horror) while being fed upon, while others can be ordered directly off the menu at hotels like room service.
 It’s not my place to judge this from a moral or legal standpoint, but I do have to wonder: why pay for something so many are willing to do for free? One anonymous vampire explained, “you don’t pay for them to let you bite them, you pay so they’ll leave afterwards.” I tried not to cringe too much as he said it.
Ultimately, I suppose people have their reasons and the service won’t be going anyway anytime soon. But I can’t help view this the same way I view dating someone where you work: convenient, maybe, but just plain lazy.
7/29/2009 ~ http://bloodcopy.com/?p=1029 |
|
Excellent pictures from SkarsgardFans.worldpress.com:
Please be sure to check out the remainder of the pictures here.
07/29/2009 ~ http://skarsgardfans.wordpress.com/2009/07/28/alexander-arriving-at-the-airport-from-europe-71909/ |
|
| ***SPOILERS*** | ***SPOILERS*** | ***SPOILERS*** |
From SpoilerTV:
Latest from TV Guide - Various Shows
Any True Blood scoop? — Rick
Text is hidden - highlight after this point--->MICKEY: Are you as confused as I am about Maryann's endgame? What exactly is she trying to do? Well, we'll learn more Sunday, when Daphne will have quite a bit to say about who Maryann is and what it is that she's doing. I'm not saying she's right, but there's as much food for thought in her one little speech as on one of Maryann's famously overstuffed banquet tables.
07/29/2009 ~ http://spoilertv.blogspot.com/2009/07/latest-from-tv-guide-various-shows.html |
|
From CampBlood.org:
Blood Work! "True Blood" video blog 2.6: "PussyCat Blues"
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Betcha didn't know that apart from being a vampire, a skilled pumpkin-carver, a doting husband and the self-appointed captain of Team Bill, Andy is also an accomplished megaphone crooner.
It's true! Andy lets his old-timey colors (or lack thereof) show in the latest installment of Blood Work Too!, in which we discuss the croontastic latest episode of True Blood, "Hard-Hearted Hannah". Will the pussycats get sober? Will we run out of gin? And will we ever get the color back in our apartment? Watch to find out!
07/28/2009 ~ http://campblood.org/2009/07/blood-work-true-blood-video-blog-26.html |
|
 And since we're talking so much about TruBlood - from HBO:
07/28/2009 ~ http://store.hbo.com/?v=hbo_shows_true-blood_tru-blood&ecid=PRF-TV2-800778&PA=PRF-TV2-800778 |
|
From BlackBookMag.com:
The True Blood-y Mary  Is it just me, or has there been a big gaping hole of awesomeness over at HBO where Adriana La Cerva’s Aqua Net used to be? Sure, the-best-TV-show-ever had gay gangsta Omar Little, but a sawed-off is no animal-print jumpsuit. Luckily, we have True Blood. Vampires, the rural South, narcotics, dirty church girls, Evan Rachel Wood—sometimes I think auteur Alan Ball lives inside my head. Especially when he proposes a tie-in beverage made of equal parts red wine, white liquor, the little blue pill, royal hemophiliac blood, and X. Holler! Maybe you don’t keep all those ingredients on hand—vials of tsar blood are perhaps an eBay commitment you’re just not yet ready to make. Conversely, carbonated OJ is so human. Compromise: impress your guests with a vat of truly bloody Marys. As an added bonus, since bloodsuckers are way not into skin cancer, you can pretend dinner is brunch. Huevos rancheros. All. Night. Long. Bloody Mary, Bloody Mary, Bloody Mary! 1. Whisk the juice of half a lime with 4 1/2 teaspoons of grated wasabi or wasabi paste, until the wasabi dissolves. 2. Pour into a large pitcher and stir in 8 cups tomato juice, 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 1/4 teaspoons habanero sauce, and 3/4 teaspoon salt. 3. Chill. 4. Stir in 1 1/2 cups primo vodka. 5. Serve over ice with a stalk of celery and slivered jalapeño as garnish. Serves 8. Vampires do it better, so drink slow.
07/28/2009 ~ http://www.blackbookmag.com/article/the-true-blood-y-mary/9554 |
|
From io9.com
Comic Con and Badvertising
[See more pictures...]
07/28/2009 ~ http://io9.com/5322379/boobs-balls-and-batman-comic-con-badvertising/gallery/ |
|
What would Dracula do?
From Newser.com Off The Grid:
There Will Be Tru Blood!
Vampires' 2nd-Favorite Drink to Hit Stores
by Lewis Grossberger
 Yep, they’re really going to market it: Tru Blood the beverage debuts Sept. 8.
And HBO’s promo writers have come up with a splendid verb to describe the concept of selling a concoction created for the characters on a TV series: They say they’re “de-fictionalizing” Tru Blood.
Is that beautiful? A fictional concept enters the world of reality, thus shedding its fictionality. Oxford English Dictionary, take note. I just hope the product can live up to the word.
I got the news in an email from HBO offering me a bargain four-pack of the scarlet libation for $16.
I’m tempted.
It seems fitting that as a veteran consumer of pop culture, now I can consume some cultural pop. Because we’re basically talking soda here.
The promo copy says: This blood orange-flavored soda is slightly tart, lightly sweet, and subtly carbonated. Designed to taste great while matching the appearance of Bill’s favorite drink, the drink pours like a regular soda, but the standing appearance in a glass is stormy and mysterious.
Well, I could sure use some storm and mystery around my boring kitchen, that’s true enough.
One problem, though: If you watch True Blood, you know that bad vampires won’t touch the stuff. It’s Transylvanian near-beer. It’s for vamp milksops who have sworn off forcibly siphoning blood from the jugular veins of innocent humans (usually pretty ones, writhing and screaming in their undies).
HBO calls it Bill’s favorite drink, but lately ol' Bill’s mainly been tippling from Sookie’s neck. I don’t think he’s hit the bottle for at least a month.
Do I want to be seen drinking a drink that’ll tip everyone off to the fact that I identify with goody-two-shoes, law-abiding, God-fearing, non-outlaw recovering vampires?
The stuff doesn’t even contain alcohol or a nuclear blast of caffeine.
There goes the whole heavy-metal, bad-boy image I’ve worked so hard to cultivate all my life.
I don’t know. I guess a thinking person has to ask himself: What would Dracula do?
07/28/2009 ~ http://www.newser.com/off-the-grid/post/212/there-will-be-tru-blood!-vampires-2nd-favorite-drink-to-hit-stores.html |
|
From EOnline.com Watch With Kristin:
True Blood: What Does Anna Paquin Hate About Sookie?
Today 8:58 AM PDT by Carrie Borzillo-Vrenna
 First of all, there isn't much not to love. She's pretty, smart, sassy, sweet and can read minds. But when pressed, if Anna Paquin had to pick one thing she didn't like about True Blood's fabulous Sookie Stackhouse, it would be those blond locks.
"What do I not like about her? Well if Charlaine [Harris, author of the Sookie Stackhouse novels] and the creators had written her as a nonnatural blonde," Anna told the Comic-Con audience, "I would be spending a lot less time in the hair salon getting my roots retouched, and my hair would probably be a little bit longer because it's gradually getting shorter as the ends break off because I'm a fake, fake, fake blonde. But aside from that, Sookie and I get along great."
Personally, we love her as a blonde. Now as for what she loves about Sookie, she said, "I like that she says what she's thinking even if it's not always a really good idea. I like that she kind of jumps in and gets involved even though it usually gets her into trouble. She means well." Here are more tidbits from the Comic-Con True Blood panel...
Alexander Skarsgård on Eric's desire for Sookie: "Eric's been around for a very long time. He's been around for 1,000 yeas. And he's over humanity. He thinks[humans] are pathetic and naive, and then she comes along and there's something different about her. I think the fact that he can't really put his finger on what it is excites him. For the first time in a really long time, he's curious, and he wants to explore that."
Alan Ball on the Dynamic Between Eric, Lafayette and Godric: "Well, obviously, they are all gay lovers, and they spend the summers together on Fire Island." But seriously, he added, "I think the dynamic between Eric and Lafayette (Nelsan Ellis)...Obviously Lafayette is terrified to death of Eric for good reason. And Eric is intrigued by Lafayette and may have plans for him in the future, which we will find out about." As for Eric and his maker, Godric, Alan noted, "It is the most important person in Eric's life, and there is tremendous, tremendous love there. I don't think it's romantic. But as somebody says in the show, the relationship between a vampire and his maker is something you can never understand."
[Continue reading...]
07/28/2009 ~ http://www.eonline.com/uberblog/watch_with_kristin/b136298_true_blood_what_does_anna_paquin_hate.html |
|
From TheSpoof.com:
Vampires Union Protests Recent Hollywood Portrayals For "Douche Bias"
 With the runaway success at both the box office and bookshelves of the "Twilight" series and the critical buzz surrounding HBO's TV series "True Blood," vampires are enjoying a new heyday in Hollywood not seen since a run of vampire films in the 1970s that included "Count Dracula" and "The Night Stalker." But while audiences all over the country can't seem to get enough of the bloodsucking monsters, there's one group that isn't at all happy about this latest trend: vampires themselves.
The Vampires & Friends of Vampires Union (VFVU), the nation's largest vampire advocacy and awareness group, has issued a formal statement to the press protesting what they consider "limp-wristed, unlikable" portrayals of their kind in books, magazines, television, and movies over the past 18 months. The statement, issued from the organization's headquarters in Transylvania, Louisiana, concludes that the entertainment industry's most recent depiction of vampires is "colored by a clear douche bias."
[Continue reading...]
07/28/2009 ~ http://www.thespoof.com/news/spoof.cfm?headline=s4i57239 |
|
From EOnline.com:
Caught! Skarsgård All Tall, Swedish and Handsome
Today 11:12 AM PDT by Ted Casablanca and Taryn Ryder
Alexander Skarsgård, aka the Robert Pattinson of True Blood, was quite the fan hit at San Diego Comic-Con over the weekend.
Dressed all in black, the Swedish hunk was seen mingling with fans in the lobby of the Hard Rock Hotel San Diego before making his way up to Float for the Wrath of Con party Friday night.
Instead of walking the red carpet, A.S. took the time to pose for pictures and sign autographs (but no biting) with eager True Blood addicts outside.
Such a gent, we love this guy. One lucky gal tells us that Alexander is "10 times better-looking in real life," and has the same "tall and commanding presence" as Eric, his character on the show.
We totally see the swoon appeal of this foreign import. A tad unlike...
Milo Ventimiglia of Heroes, aka Hayden Panettiere's leftovers, looking a bit scrawny for our taste at the same Wrath of Con party. Milo still looked sexy, just in a skinny way, as he mingled on the rooftop of the H.R. Hotel. Milo chatted up a few cute girls, but definitely kept his gentlemen manner at a high.
[Continue reading...]
07/28/2009 ~ http://www.eonline.com/uberblog/the_awful_truth/b136391_caught_skarsgaringrd_all_tall_swedish.html |
|
Gotta love Google translation...
From Expressen:
Alexander Skarsgård: "I prefer to be helnaken"
| Alexander Skarsgård ON ... |
| ... new role to Kate Bosworth in "Straw Dogs"?
"Should be great fun I go to Mississippi August 2 to prepare for me, especially when it makes sydstatsdialekten, and then we start to record August 17." | ... contract with HBO and the role in "True blood"?
"My contract extends over six years. How many seasons it will be, I do not know, but I am pretty sure that" True blood "continues in a few years. | .... vacation home in Sweden recently? "
"Two wonderful weeks. I umgicks with my friends, greeted the mother in the Stockholm archipelago in five days and visited Dad at his rural location on Öland during the few days' |
 LOS ANGELES. His Viking vampire Eric has made great success in the acclaimed TV series "True blood". Expect to attention around Alexander Skarsgård will grow. This season he does nude scenes also. "I have no problem with being naked in front of the camera, "says Alexander Skarsgård when Expressen met him in Hollywood.
HBO series "True blood" has taken television viewers around the world by storm. The second season has just begun in the U.S. and critics continue to pour praise on Alan Ball, who also created "Six feet under".
Prat was Swedish Alexander, or Alex as he now called in Hollywood, plays the Viking vampire Eric Northman in a role that is now only grows in the series.
In the most recent episode broadcast in the United States on Sunday was the viewers see a little of Erics background and then suddenly spoke Swedish for several minutes in the box when a group of Vikings just lived through a field type.
"I love Sweden" Alex came to back to Los Angeles earlier this week after two weeks of vacation in Sweden.
For the first time I felt that I came home when the plane landed in Los Angeles. I love Sweden and my family and my friends there, but now I have lived in California in five years and has begun to rekindle his career here, "he says.
During the first three years, Alex lived on a couch at a friend in Hollywood.
- I fought hard rock on the roles, just as so many others and many of my talented friends here tears still to get its breakthrough. I realize how fortunate I am.
"Not so crazy" Tv-series "Generation Kill" about a group of U.S. Marine Corps soldiers during the invasion of Iraq did Skar Gård to a star in Hollywood last year.
"True blood" will lift him even higher. He loves the series' mix of sex, desire and danger of the impermissible.
There is attraction, it's easy to go wrong. Eric is not as crazy as many think, but he has a strong will and justify their actions.
And now we see you naked too?
- For me, it is no big deal, I've been naked in other roles I have in the past both in the theater and in films. Here they wanted to test everything from a sock or a body-colored mini underwear, but it just felt weird. I prefer to be helnaken instead. So long as you and your motspelerska know that it works, it is okay and we are a tight bunch that make this series.
None daring guess He would not reveal who he has sex with the "True blood", but there is probably no daring guess that it is Anna Paguin who plays Sookie Stack House.
Surprised at success?
No, not at all.
07/27/2009 ~ http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=sv&u=http://www.expressen.se/noje/1.1650235/alexander-skarsgard-jag-foredrar-att-vara-helnaken&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dexpressen%2Bsweden%252 |
|
| *Minor Spoilers* | *Minor Spoilers* | *Minor Spoilers* |
From Rolling Stone Magazine:
Alan Ball Spills "True Blood" Secrets Cast of HBO's hottest vampire series talk werewolves,
Season Three at Comic-Con
 Alan Ball began the True Blood panel Saturday afternoon at Comic-Con by holding up a very familiar-looking bottle and announcing that "True Blood, the drink, is a reality now." In lieu of actual synthetic blood, it's a blood-orange soda, "an exact replica of the props we use on the show," and it'll be available September 10th, "just in time for your viewing party for the final episode of Season Two."
(Click here for photos of New Moon, The Imaginarium of Dr. Parnassus, Avatar and more at Comic-Con 2009)
Following a montage of previously unseen snippets from forthcoming episodes of the hot HBO vampire series, the panel got under way, with producer Ball joined by actors Anna Paquin (who was celebrating her birthday), Michelle Forbes, Nelsan Ellis, Stephen Moyer, Rutina Wesley, Sam Trammell, Deborah Ann Woll, and Alexander Skarsgård — who got particularly loud cheers — and Charlaine Harris, author of the novels on which True Blood is based. (The panel's other big announcement was that Harris has just signed a contract to write three more Sookie Stackhouse books.)
The capacity crowd in the San Diego Convention Center's ballroom had lined up seemingly halfway to Tijuana to get in, so most of the panel was devoted to Ball, Harris and the cast answering their questions. A few highlights:
• Harris, on the initial experience of seeing her books come to life: "I watched it, and in some of the scenes I went OH!" [She covered her eyes.] "And then I called my husband, and I said, honey, we're gonna have to move..."
• Skarsgård, on why his character Eric is smitten with Sookie: "Well, just look at her! ... Eric's been around for a very long time, he's kind of over humanity — he's seen it all — and then she comes along, and there's something different about her. The fact that he can't really put that finger on what it is excites him."
• Ball, on what he's excited about for Season Three: "I'm just excited that there is a Season Three, even though I don't think that's been officially announced. I'm looking forward to seeing werewolves for the first time, I'm definitely interested in getting into the world of Russell Edginton and the Mississippi vampires, and I'm really excited about the character of Debbie Pelt."
• Forbes, on what attracted her to the role of Maryann Forrester: "When someone offers you an entrance where you're standing in the middle of the road naked with a pig, you don't say no."
• Ball, on whether there's going to be a half-vampire baby in True Blood a Twilight-inspired question met with loud booing: "What? Oh. No. No. In our show, vampires are either full-on vampires, or they're not vampires." (That answer got cheers. There seems to have been a bit of Twilight vs. True Blood rivalry going on at Comic-Con.)
• Harris, on where the inspiration for her work comes from: "Inspiration is a word I really don't trust. Writing is work, and what I do is work. Some days I actually pull my own hair when I'm trying to make ideas come. But I have a contract, and my contract has a deadline. So I sit there, and I flex my fingers and say 'Who's coming to Sookie's house today?'"
07/27/2009 ~ http://www.rollingstone.com/news/story/29344773/alan_ball_spills_true_blood_secrets |
|
From LiverpoolDailyPost:
(regarding 1st Season of True Blood)
 FX's new Friday night hit, True Blood. already the biggest thing on American cable since Sex and the City, started a fortnight ago and we have happily let it sink its teeth into us. Starring child actress Anna Paquin (of the Piano fame) and British hunk Stephen Moyer, it tells of an America where vampires have "come out of the coffin" so to speak to live alongside humans.
It is excellent, dark and witty. We are still trying to get our heads around Anna Paquin as a leading lady but have to say we haven't seen such hot-looking undead since Brad Pitt in Interview with the Vampire.
Although quite how Vinnie from Home and Away landed himself a lead role is a little baffling. Not that we are complaining with a six-pack like thatn and his apparent inability to keep his short on...whoa!
07/27/2009 ~ http://blogs.liverpooldailypost.co.uk/girlsbehavingstylishly/2009/07/new-vampire-show-is-true-blood.html |
|
Thanks to TrueBlood-online.com:
Deborah Ann Woll featured on H Magazine
Posted by Shadaliza On July - 27 - 2009
Deborah Ann Woll is featured on the August issue of Hollywood Magazine.
[Click images to enlarge.]
07/27/2009 ~ http://www.trueblood-online.com/cast-crew/deborah-ann-woll-cast-crew/deborah-ann-woll-featured-on-h-magazine |
|
From MSNBC.MSN.com:
Will Bill rescue Sookie in time on ‘True Blood’? Terror reigns in Bon Temps amid growing talk of war against vampires
By Ken Tucker 
“Guillaume”) sitting at a piano in 1926 Chicago crooning this week’s episode title-song, “Hard-Hearted Hannah” — surely the least sexy/appealing poses we’ve ever seen Bill in, and yes, I remember those stiff Civil War flashbacks. What finally replaced that image (Bill looked sort of like early Billy Joel crossed with Marvin Hamlisch — shudder) was “True Blood’s” two climactic scenes this week. (Do I need to write it?: Spoiler alert if you didn’t watch tonight’s episode yet.)
I’m talking about Sookie and Hugo (Isabel’s human boyfriend) being dragged down screaming into Rev. Steve’s basement of terror, and Maryann’s wildest whipped-up orgy yet, which included Tara and Eggs going at it like rabbits, but rabbits with dead-ghoul eyes. Eek and eek, respectively. Yes, the danger is becoming more harrowing with each week, so that now one of “True Blood’s” pleasures is its churning suspense, so far kept under an artistic control that’s so confident on the part of Alan Ball and his directors that it hasn’t gone over the top.
[Continue reading...]
07/27/2009 ~ http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/32173411/ns/entertainment-television/ |
|
From NewsOK.com:
“True Blood” Drink Arriving Soon
on July 27, 2009 at 1:05 pm 
“True Blood” afficionados can quench their thirst with a Blood Orange carbonated drink that will hit store shelves in September.
It’s officially licensed from HBO Licensing & Retail by Omni Consumer Products and boasts a crisp, slightly tart and lightly sweet tang.
The bottle has been crafted to replicate the appearance of the vampiric sustenance found on the HBO series – blood type, logo and all.
“True Blood” creator and executive producer Alan Ball announced the release of the Tru Blood drink at the San Diego Comic Con on July 25, where fans were able to sample the beverage and take a bottle home.
“True Blood” kicked off Season 2 on June 14 and can be seen at 8 p.m. Sundays through Sept. 13 on HBO.
For more information on the Tru Blood beverage, visit www.TRUBEVERAGE.COM. It can be pre-ordered at www.HBO.com/store
07/27/2009 ~ http://blog.newsok.com/television/2009/07/27/true-blood-drink-arriving-soon/ |
|
From Willamettelive.com:
Good things come to those who wait
By Kendra Boren
from WillametteLive, Section Music / Nightlife
Posted on Mon Jul 27, 2009 at 11:54:13 AM PDT
 A few years ago Jace Everett's career left him in a familiar artist’s quandary: that of a struggling musician. His debut was a mainstream country album, a sound that didn't completely reflect his style.
Flash forward a year and Everett was on the brink of his big break even if he didn't yet realize that was the case.
"I love country music with all of my heart, but I thought 'My career's over, so I might as well do what I want," Everett said.
"Bad Things," a rockabilly track off of his 2005 self-titled album caught the attention of Oscar-winning screenwriter Alan Ball who, in 2006, was scouring iTunes in search of a track to accompany his treatment of the now hit HBO series “True Blood.”
I
n an age when much of television programming has discarded the use opening credits, “True Blood’s” main title montage has captivated its viewers as well as critics.
“The opening sequence was recently nominated for an Emmy,” Everett said. “I can't take in credit for that, but it's cool.”
The now highly recognizable song has afforded Everett the opportunity to continue to making music his way.Red Revelations, Everett’s third and latest effort, was released on June 23. The album boasts 11 new tracks in addition to his hit “Bad Things.”
[Continue reading...]
07/27/2009 ~ http://willamettelive.com/story/Good_things_come_to_those_who_wait123.html |
|
From BloodCopy:
HIPPIES?!  A new evil has taken residence in Bon Temps.
No, not a deadly creature or flesh eating tiger, something potentially far worse. Something that, if left unchecked, can quickly grow out of control and alter the very fabric of our beloved town. This evil takes different forms: hemp clad college students, burned out baby boomers, idealistic environmentalists. But to most they are known by a single word: Hippies.
I have no idea why this particular subculture would gravitate to the area. I’ve heard no plans for a massive jam band festival or protest for the legalization of some illicit substance, the stores here don’t sell hacky sacks or organic herbal hairspray. But still, they’ve come, and it’s impossible to ignore them. Because where hippies gather, drum circles are certain to follow. Incessant banging, “groovy” rhythms, unique percussive tones from unconventional world instruments, all contributing to a cacophony that overwhelms all else, particularly the efforts of a certain vampire to enjoy a quiet evening at home. And it doesn’t stop there. Judging from certain noises best not described here, I believe the ancient hippie ritual of free love is also taking place.
I fear things will only grow worse. We must act. We must end the hippie presence. Before it’s too late.
07/27/2009 ~ http://bloodcopy.com/?p=1023 |
|
From MonstersAndCritics.com:
True Blood 'That'll do, Pig,' some thoughts
 'True Blood'was a bloody good one last night.
Bill isn't such a southern gentleman after all, our "Guillaume the piano man" was acalculating cold blooded killer (and torturer) ofsome unwittingwealthy prohibition scofflaws who thoughtthey were going to have ahot foursome. Sacre bleu.
The queen villainess of the series thus far has been Maryann, who has taken residence in Sookie's house and getsirate if the plumbing doesn't work properly.The episode's orgy scene circled heras she gyrated infull hummingbird staccatospecial effects, while someone please tell me what is Carl doing at these supernatural shindigs?
JasonStackhouse is full of remorsefor the holy hand job fromSarah Newlin, who is starting to have doubts about her husband'svision for the church.
Luke makes nice with Jason over carpentry and explains the hierarchy of sin, and what God will understand and what will totally blow you out of the water for an after-life in damnation: Gay vampire sex took that honor.
My secret husband Eric has a tête-à-tête with cunning Lorena, Bill's maker, his partner in the prohibition murders who rolled around in bloody sheets with him while the female victim wasclinging to life.Eric's got him some plans, as Sookie might say.
Not since Titus Pullo from HBO's other delicious Sunday night fare, the short lived "Rome," have I been so sotted with a male character. Alexander Skarsgård is the pull of this show for me, not Stephen Moyer.
A moment to discuss Sookie.Shepushes to go in a save what we think may be Godric, Eric's maker, and hashes the plan with Isabel's human lover Hugo to pose as a couple and go to the Fellowship and try to join.Hugo plants the notion of eternal life by way of "turning" into Sookie's head. She seemingly dismisses the notion.
[Continue reading...]
07/27/2009 ~ http://www.monstersandcritics.com/smallscreen/news/article_1492159.php/True_Blood_Thatll_do_Pig_some_thoughts |
|
From TVSquad.com:
True Blood: Hard-Hearted Hannah
Posted Jul 27th 2009 4:38AM by Jane Boursaw
(S02E06) "In person, she looks like vanilla pudding." - Sookie to Hugo, describing Sarah Newlin
Disturbing. Sexy. Gross. Creepy. Mysterious. Musical. Scary. Funny. How a show can pack so much into one hour is beyond me. We'll start with the amazing Alan Ball and work our way down through the actors, writers, and the rest of the crew. I'm sure even craft services has a spread of delicious food for these folks every day.
I fell in love with season one of True Blood, and each episode of season two keeps raising the bar higher and higher. This was the best one yet, with plenty of new drama, mystery and, yes, disturbing stuff.
Let's start with the disturbing. I've seen some gross stuff on TV, but I can' recall anything quite as gross as the flashback scene where Bill and Lorena lure that unsuspecting couple at the 1920s speakeasy into a creepy partner swap with a twist -- and I'm not just talking about Lorena twisting that guy's head either. The scene where Bill sucks the blood out of that poor girl, then he and Lorena have sex in that bloody bed while blood spurts out of her neck beside them ... ewwww ...
But who knew that Bill had such a lovely voice?! Really, seeing him in a tux and tickling the ivories while crooning a tune was lots of fun.
Also in the fun category was Eric's encounter with the vampire whore. I wanted to laugh when he said it's not as much fun for him if she actually likes it -- but it didn't seem right, so I just chuckled quietly in the darkest part of my heart. But Eric doesn't seem as badass as he was in season one. I just knew that when they cut his lovely hair off, he'd be less menacing.
[Continue reading...]
07/27/2009 ~ http://www.tvsquad.com/2009/07/27/true-blood-hard-hearted-hannah/ |
|
From Country Music Television:
Sammy Kershaw Gets Hot
 One of Sammy Kershaw's friends recently sent him a text message that asked, "Are you watching True Blood on HBO?" Sammy wasn't tuned in to the hit series, but he flipped the channel and pretty soon he heard part of "Louisiana Hot Sauce," a song he co-wrote with Keith Stegall in 1999 that was on his Maybe Not Tonight album. With True Blood being hailed by critics, bloggers and fans, Sammy's song was one of the top downloads at iTunes the following morning. Sammy's Web site was so overloaded with traffic that day, it crashed several times.
Entertainment Weekly has bragged on whoever is picking the music on True Blood. I spoke with Sammy, and he isn't sure who chose his song. He did tell me he's just finished an album and hasn't nailed down a home for it as of yet. If I owned a record label, I'd sign Sammy. He's one of our finest country singers.
[Read entire article...]
07/26/2009 ~ http://www.cmt.com/news/hot-dish/1616893/hot-dish-the-first-family-gets-a-taste-of-country-music.jhtml |
|
From HuffingtonPost.com:
True Blood Sucker Punch: Episode 6
 Welcome to Sucker Punch, the only blog post that ranks the gaudiest moments on this week's episode of True Blood.
Um... remember last week, when I worried the show was slowing down? Well, "Heard-Hearted Hannah" has settled my hash. There are so many sucker-punchy scenes in this installment that I could get carpal tunnel syndrome writing about them all.
But before we begin... have you noticed that on the bottom right side of the screen, there's an automatically generated ad leading you to the books I supposedly wrote? Well, I am not that Mark Blankenship. He's a celebrated composer of Christian hymns, not the dude watching vampires have sex and then writing about it. Or at least, he's not writing about it on The Huffington Post. However, if he writes a hymn called "Lord, Thy Sun Shalt Kill Bill Compton," we'll know why.
Speaking of church... let's start with the Fellowship of the Sun. Sarah giving Jason a beejer in the choir loft is crazy, if unsurprising. After she anointed his bishop last week, her advances were bound to get more intense, and doing it in the church certainly ups the trash factor. Also trashy? Convincing poor, witless Jason that his trampy behavior is mandated by God.
Ryan Kwanten's performance makes me believe Jason is gullible enough to fall for Sarah's "God told me to get freaky" routine. If he actually believes what he's doing is consecrated, then he could feel wounded later, which gives this storyline more electricity. (And if Sarah believes her own nonsense, which I think she does, then the inevitable fallout will be even worse.)
[Continue reading...]
07/27/2009 ~ http://www.huffingtonpost.com/mark-blankenship/itrue-bloodi-sucker-punch_b_245181.html |
|
HBO Promo for Episode 9 "Release Me":
And previously on True Blood:
07/27/2009 |
|
New HBO Promo:
07/26/2009 |
|
From TruBeverage.com:
 Comic-Con True Blood Forum 5PM - July, 25th 2009
San Diego Convention Center
San Diego, California Comic-Con 2009 Official Introduction of the Tru Blood Drink Posted on July 25thby TruBlood It's official! The Tru Blood drink has now been "de-fictionalized" and emerges into reality as a delicious blood orange carbonated drink. Introduced during the True Blood forum at the 2009 San Diego Comic-Con on July 25, 2009, the drink will hit store shelves in September. It's official! The Tru Blood drink has now been "de-fictionalized" and emerges into reality as a delicious blood orange carbonated drink. Introduced during the True Blood forum at the 2009 San Diego Comic-Con on July 25, 2009, the drink will hit store shelves in September. It boasts a crisp, slightly tart, lightly sweet tang, and a deep red color to match the appearance of the Tru Blood product featured on the True Blood series. The premium blood orange drink is packaged in a completely unique 14 oz glass wide-mouth bottle, stained in a rich red, with raised Tru Blood English lettering and an embossed Japanese Kanji on the neck. A gold foiled label emblazoned with the bold Tru Blood logo completes the distinctive look. Stay tuned for more info on the drink's upcoming roll-out. Read More
Faux Tru Blood Drink Video and Print Ads Posted on July 25thby TruBlood  | Have you seen these faux Tru Blood drink posters and videos? Look to the right on this page and check out the videos and poster images that mysteriously popped up in public before both seasons of the True Blood series masquerading as an advertising campaign for the Tru Blood synthetic blood beverage which is central to the show's plot. | |
07/26/2009 ~ http://www.trubeverage.com/news.html |
|
From Entertainment Weekly:
The 'True Blood' team sinks its fangs into Comic-Con and offers juicy Season 3 teases
Jul 26, 2009, 12:04 PM | by Jeff Jensen  True Blood will be back for a third season, exec producer Alan Ball told fans of the HBO vampire series at Comic-Con late Saturday afternoon, while author Charlaine Harris, whose novels form the basis for the series, told the crowd that she has signed a deal to write three more books. A rapt audience of thousands roared when stars Anna Paquin, Stephen Moyer and Alexander Skarsgård said that their love triangle will heat up in the second half of the current season, with Moyer promising that his Bill will be "fighting harder" for Sookie’s increasingly Eric-attracted heart. When Ball was asked if the romance will follow the arc of Harris’ novels, the producer paused and then answered with just, “Yes.” It was hard to know if he was serious or kidding—but most interpreted it as serious. The big theme for the second half of the season is war—and if you’re a fan of the show, you know the rivals. Ball—who delighted fans by vowing you’ll never see half-vamp/half-human hybrids on his show (“You’re either all human or all vampire”)—says that he’s looking forward to introducing werewolves and the Mississippi vampires from Harris’ books into the series next season, but said he had no vision to bring in Bubba, a fan fave from the books. Harris—who admitted to being initially shocked by Ball’s racy adaptation of her franchise--says she feels no obligation to mirror the TV series in her forthcoming books. “I don’t tell him how to run a show, and he doesn’t tell me how to write the books,” she quipped, in a way that didn’t sound nearly as testy as it may read. Finally, Ball says that a real “True Blood” beverage will become available for purchase on September 10. The ingredients: “Cabernet, the blood of European hemophiliac royalty, vodka, Viagra, and ectasy. Unfortunately, it’s highly illegal.” Actually, the drink is “a tasty orange soda drink.” More info about the beverage will be coming from hbo.com.
07/26/2009 ~ http://popwatch.ew.com/popwatch/2009/07/true-blood-comiccon-panel.html |
|
From LATimesBlogs:
'True Blood' at Comic-Con: Yes, ladies,
Eric really is that hot
12:33 AM PT, Jul 26 2009  Lest anyone forget, there is more than one vampire-themed entertainment phenomenon in the pop culture universe right now. "True Blood," HBO's hit adaptation of the Sookie Stackhouse mystery novels from author Charlaine Harris, has its own legion of devoted fans keen on the show's sexy, campy aesthetic, and plenty of them turned up Saturday to hear cast membersAnna Paquin (on her birthday, no less), Stephen Moyer, Sam Trammell, Rutina Wesley, Nelsan Ellis, Michelle Forbes, Deborah Ann Woll and Alexander Skarsgard and creator Alan Ball talk about what's in store for Season 2 and beyond. It was Skarsgard, though, who might have earned the most enthusiastic reception -- he plays vamp heavy Eric Northman on the Louisiana-set series, and well, there just must be something about those centuries-old former Vikings who become powerful immortals. They make the ladies swoon.
[Continue reading...]
07/26/2009 ~ http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/herocomplex/2009/07/true-blood-at-comiccon-yes-ladies-eric-really-is-that-hot.html |
|
From IFMagazine.com:
Comic Con Recap: (DAY 3 - July 25, 2009): HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 'TRUE BLOOD' PANEL What to expect for the rest of the season, TruBlood the beverage,
and Season 3?
By CARLOS DELGADO and EMERSON PARKER, iF Staff
THE SKINNY: One of the super-hyped panels during Comic Con was the TRUE BLOOD panel with stars Stephen Moyer, Anna Paquin, Alexander Skarsgard, Sam Trammell and more as well as creator Alan Ball were going to give some hints to the remainder of season two on HBO. It didn’t disappoint. Not only did it give us the trailer to the remainder of the season of TRUE BLOOD (you can find it below), but we got a flood of questions and info about what to expect from the stars themselves. One of the most popular stars at the panel by far was Alexander Skarsgard, who got a ton of questions in regard to everything from his personal life to playing a vampire to more. He’s reached the TWILIGHT Robert Pattinson level of the TRUE BLOOD universe. As far as Eric goes … Skarsgard gave us a bit more about his character and hints to what we might see for the rest of the season. “Eric’s been around for a very long time, been around for a thousand years and he’s kind of over humanity,” Skarsgard says. “He’s seen it all. He kind of thinks they’re in general kind of pathetic and naïve. And [Sookie] comes along and there’s something different about her. I think the fact that he can’t really put his finger on what it is excites him. For the first time in a really long time, he’s curious. He wants to explore that and see where that takes him.” Whoa! I sense a Bill/Eric fight soon. Something that Alan Ball backs up when he’s asked if the Eric/Sookie/Bill love triangle will play out like the books. He answers simply, “Yes.” But he follows it up with a bit more about working on a TV series where you are basing it off of a book and how it is different from film. “I think one of the great things about working on an extended series is that it’s so different from movies,” Ball says. “You don’t have to define a character and have them be that. They can actually adapt and evolve as the series moves on.” He continues, “I personally don’t like the idea of keeping anyone exactly what they are for the whole season. So I think everybody is going to go through some changes. The changes have to be organic.” Then Ball gives us some info on the status of the TRUE BLOOD renewal and if there will be a season three. “It’s so much fun to work on this show that I’m just excited that there is a season three,” Ball says. “Even though I don’t think it’s been officially announced, it will be very soon. I’m looking forward to seeing werewolves.” Holy crap! Vamps, shape shifters, demons, monsters and now werewolves? Move over humans, you’re just meat now. Other stuff from the TRUE BLOOD panel: - Tru Blood is actually going to be a blood orange soda for realz! Go to www.trubeverage.com
- Lafayette has to find a new way to hustle himself because the old ways aren’t working.
- Sam will continue to be a real magnet for abuse.
- Anna Paquin loves most about Sookie the fact that she always says what she is thinking even if it gets her into trouble in the long or short run.
- However, Anna hates being a fake blonde.
- Charlaine Harris has signed on to write three more Sookie Stackhouse novels.
- Harris also says of the TRUE BLOOD series “I don’t think I’m really affected by the show. It’s a great opportunity to have two entertainment experiences.”
- Bill will be less polite to Eric if he makes moves on Sookie.
07/26/2009 ~ http://www.ifmagazine.com/new.asp?article=8411 |
|
A love triangle is in the future...
From JustJared:
Anna Paquin & Stephen Moyer: Comic-Con Couple
Anna Paquin and her on-and-off-screen love interest Stephen Moyer attend the cast signing of their hit vampire series True Blood at Comic-Con 2009 held at San Diego Convention Center on Saturday (July 25) in San Diego, Calif.
Also pictured: costars Alexander Skarsgard and Rutina Wesley.
When asked if the love triangle between Bill, Sookie, and Eric will get played out on screen as it does in the books, Stephen said, “I’m not sure that Bill is just going to roll over and let it happen. I think he’s going to fight his hardest and maybe not be quite as polite as he has been.” When asked why Eric is so smitten with Sookie, Alexander joked, “Just look at her. I’m sorry, Stephen.”
07/26/2009 ~ http://justjared.buzznet.com/2009/07/26/anna-paquin-stephen-moyer-comic-con/ |
|
Thanks to YouTubes's magicinthenumbers's Channel for the uploads.
Videos from Comic-Con Panel Discussions:
True Blood, Comic Con 2009 part 1
True Blood, Comic Con 2009 part 2
True Blood, Comic Con 2009 part 3
True Blood, Comic Con 2009 part 4
True Blood, Comic Con 2009 part 5
True Blood, Comic Con 2009 part 6
07/26/2009 |
|
Share this
