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What does it take to find the "spark of humanity" in a scene? For Michelle Danner—director, producer, and world-class acting coach—it is about creating a safe space for the truth to emerge. Hollywood Hills Magazine Co-Founder Ariel Lavi  interviews Danner about her multifaceted career. They discuss the personal heartbreak and humor behind her new film The Italians , the essential "humanity" needed in her upcoming sci-fi thriller Helios , and the specific instincts she looks for when mentoring the next generation of cinema stars. On ‘The Italians’: What personal piece of your own heart did you put into the chaotic, loving soul of this film? That is such a great question because there certainly was a big piece of my heart that went into making the movie. At the end of the film, a card comes up that says "For my mother Loredana." My mother was Italian born in Milano, I spent a lot of my childhood vacations going to Italy, and that part of my heritage has always been very important to me. That became even more true after she passed away before we shot the movie, and it made playing this role, telling this story, and tapping into all these facets of who my mother was an incredibly personal and impactful experience. On ‘The Message’: What single truth about forgiveness do you hope every audience member hugs their family after seeing? The message at the heart of The Italians is twofold: it’s not worth it to hang on to anything, even if you’ve been wronged it doesn’t have to be tit for tat. Life is too short to not choose to forgive and take the high road. At the same time, there's a message for those seeking forgiveness that they have to own up to their mistakes and make amends. The character Father Joe played by Luca Riemma encapsulates this with the line "Learn to commit, learn to accept, learn to atone." On ‘Creative Shift’: After powerful courtroom dramas, what unique magic did finding joy in this family comedy bring to your spirit? It's a lot of fun to work on comedies, which I know having just wrapped on a new romantic comedy about astrology called Starstruck. It's fun to shoot them where you find the laughter in the moment, and it's fun to edit them when you go back and put together all these spontaneous choices. The Italians was a much needed change of pace after Miranda's Victim, especially because it gave me the chance to work with Abigail Breslin on less heavy material. We had a lot of laughs on set and I think you can really feel that joy when you watch the movie, that the cast and crew cared about the film and had a wonderful time while making it. On ‘Future Worlds’: For your sci-fi thrillers, what essential piece of our "humanity" must always survive, even in a complex new future? The next movie I'm going to direct (fingers crossed) is Helios, a sci-fi thriller about a brilliant scientist and her astronaut brother stopping solar flares from destroying the Earth. Beyond the thrilling race against the clock and the spectacle of outer space and its beauty, it's a story that I think is going to resonate with people about the human race coming together and triumphing in the face of impossible odds. Specifically it's a film about how a crisis can bring out the best in people and not the worst, which is the kind of message I think we need to shine a light in the darkness in a time such as this and remind us of our humanity. On Star Potential: What subtle spark whispers to you: "This actor is a world-class, undeniable star?" It's hard to define it, it's really a gut feeling. Even then it's a feeling about someone who has the potential to be a star, that star quality, the "it" factor that they talk about. I always remember when I studied with Stella Alder a hundred years ago that she said you have to have "the talent for the talent." What that means is that despite how extraordinary it is that so many people I meet and get to coach, teach, and work with have such great talent, you have to have the work ethic that accompanies that talent. When I watch somebody and I go "They could really break through in a big way," it has to do with a willingness to take risks in the work, to try things, to be open and vulnerable and go deep within oneself when it's demanded of them by the material. That to me is a true star. On ‘The Golden Box’: If you could share one secret from your technique, what instantly frees an actor’s deepest truth? What really works to free actors is to create around them a safe space, a bubble, a very private one where they feel like they can let themselves inhabit the character in the deepest way possible. That gives them the permission to play with the role and go beyond what's on the page. A lot of actors have to master doing this for themselves through confidence and bravery, but a large part of it is the environment the director creates for their actors to do their best work. On Mastery: What is the most important lesson you teach A-list actors to keep their instincts pure and grounded? Another great question, it isn't a lesson but more of a reminder to go deep within them and connect with why they want to tell the story, what they have to bring to the character, and to really stay in touch with this throughout the process. When an actor hits that place inside of themselves, which as I've said is one that is open and vulnerable and able to be courageous in taking on a role and bringing it to life, it's a profound place to go to and an incredible thing to witness. On Purpose: What personal need in you is uniquely fulfilled by mentoring artists that directing alone cannot touch? Teaching and mentoring is a completely different process than directing. The immense joy that I get is to watch my students grow, the moment when a lightbulb goes on in their heads and they find the scene or the character, and to help them learn to tolerate the artist's struggle, overcome those challenges, persevere and ultimately prevail. It's about standing in front of a wall and finding a way to climb it, and when you do you become stronger. There's nothing more rewarding than watching my students find that strength. On Scene Work: When directing, how do you instantly spot the tiny, powerful "humanity in the moment" that transforms a scene? I know when I feel moved and I get that jolt, that razor edge feeling in my gut that the moment is there and bound to open up the door to what the scene is really about. On set, I work very closely with my script supervisor and it’s a good practice to star the takes that you feel would work the edit you're already constructing in your head. When the actor finds that spark of humanity, the opening to that door, that’s when I know that we should star that take and it rarely fails to make the final cut.  On Difficult Topics: For films about tough issues like addiction, what gives you the courage to seek hope in the darkness? The Runner was a movie I made about addiction back in 2019 with a great cast and I really did want to find the hope at the core of that story. When our kids fall through the cracks there’s still a way to reach them, break through, and save them from destruction and despair. I don’t like stories that don’t have that ray of light because I feel like that light is always there and in life one should never give up, not on themselves and not on their fellow human beings. It's very much a running theme in my work. On Leadership: How does your disciplined business approach for All In Films actually make your artistic choices bolder? The reason why I created All In Films was to be able to have the freedom to tell stories that I feel need to be told. There’s countless examples of people shopping around movies for years or decades - Rocky being my go-to and one of the most famous examples - and for many those projects never see the light of day. To be able to find a way to make a movie after everybody said "no" but you said you're going to do it anyway because you believe in it that much... That is my ultimate goal with All In Films, to take my art to that level and make sure it finds the audience I know is hungering for it. On Legacy: Do you hope your final legacy is defined by the powerful stories you directed, or the powerful storytellers you inspired? Both. I want the stories I’ve told to be powerful enough that they inspire a new generation of storytellers, but ultimately I will live on through my sons and in the arts particularly through my oldest who will be directing movies someday and has been by my side for my last eight films. He has grown so much as an artist and tells me I’ve inspired him to be the filmmaker he is. I couldn't be more excited to see what he will accomplish and I hope his films also provide inspiration to those who dream of telling unique and meaningful stories. You can follow Michelle Danner on Instagram .

For over two decades, the HollyShorts Film Festival has stood as a pillar of independent cinema in Los Angeles, launching careers and championing the short form narrative. But as the industry evolves, so does the need to reach storytellers where they live. In a bold move to decentralize the pathway to the Academy Awards, the festival has embarked on a transcontinental expansion, proving that the road to the Oscars no longer has to start in Hollywood. Following a dazzling second edition in the UK, the festival is now poised to make history in the Middle East. The journey began last month in London, where the festival’s UK offshoot - now officially rebranded as HollyShorts UK - solidified its place in the British cultural calendar. For the second consecutive year, the event brought a curated lineup of international shorts to central London, culminating in a sold-out awards ceremony that balanced cinematic prestige with high-fashion flair. The red carpet saw the return of Emily in Paris  star Arnaud Binard , attending for his second year, alongside notably talented figures like Emma Mackey and Evie Templeton , creating an atmosphere that felt both intimate and star-studded. SUSHISAMBA What set this year’s London edition apart was how seamlessly it blended industry networking with luxury lifestyle elements. The festival partnered with SUSHISAMBA to elevate the standard mixer into a private cocktail hour for nominees and VIPs, merging film community building with stylish dining. The venue also served as the backdrop for high-stakes recognition, presenting the Best International award to Sam Davis , a filmmaker now considered a major contender for an Oscar nomination . The attention to detail throughout the London events reflected a deep respect for the craft. Winners and honorees toasted with custom, hand-crafted champagne glasses by The Elliance, flutes designed to serve as lasting symbols of the artistry at the festival’s heart. Guests were treated to the visual splendor of Essex Bouqcakes , whose floral cupcakes offered a sweet, artistic flourish to the opening night. Hand-crafted champagne glasses by The Elliance Essex Bouqcakes Adding a layer of red-carpet preparation to the proceedings, Cotrini Skincare brought their high-end expertise to the VIP gifting suite. Known for their scientifically refined formulas utilizing Salmon DNA, Cotrini provided the "camera-ready glow" essential for such nights and further supported the creators by presenting the festival’s Best Director award. Cotrini Skincare With the London chapter successfully closed, the focus shifts immediately to a groundbreaking moment in the Middle East. From December 12 through 14, 2025, the inaugural HollyShorts Dubai will take place, marking the region’s first direct opportunity to participate in an Oscar-qualifying short-film festival. This expansion is more than just a change of scenery; it is a vital new infrastructure for international filmmakers. HollyShorts Dubai creates a direct bridge between emerging regional voices and the global stage. Winners at this upcoming event will not only gain exposure in the Middle East but will earn a guaranteed screening slot at the 2026 main festival in Hollywood . From there, their work becomes eligible for Academy Award consideration. It is a streamlined ecosystem designed to support diverse perspectives without requiring creators to permanently relocate to Los Angeles to get their foot in the door. The Dubai edition promises to match the luxury and vibrancy of its host city. The Delano Dubai has been announced as the exclusive host for the opening night reception, cementing a partnership that blends cinema with world-class hospitality. The festivities will kick off at the Delano’s Blue Door restaurant and garden, where the ambiance of beachfront elegance meets the energy of refined nightlife. Against the backdrop of the Arabian Gulf and Bluewaters, filmmakers and sponsors will gather to set the tone for three days of screenings, panels, and awards. Delano’s Blue Door restaurant and garden This collaboration with Delano extends beyond a single party. The hotel brand is set to present Oscar-qualifying category awards at the 2026 HollyShorts Film Festival in Los Angeles , symbolizing a long-term commitment to cultural exchange. By bringing their signature sophistication to Hollywood’s Academy-accredited platform, the partnership reinforces the idea that great cinema, like great hospitality, transcends borders. As HollyShorts continues to widen its reach, it ensures that the future of film is not just watched globally, but created globally. You can follow: Theo Dumont (HollyShorts co-founder) Instagram . HollyShorts Dubai Instagram . HollyShorts London Instagram . HollyShorts Instagram .

In the high-stakes world of global event management, visibility is often mistaken for value. Red carpets, flashing strobes, and celebrity guest lists capture the public imagination, but the true engine of the industry lies in the quiet, complex architecture of partnership. This is the domain of Nadia Bravo. Based in Milan, the fashion and business capital of Italy, Nadia Bravo Consulting has distinguished itself not merely as an agency, but as a strategic pivot point in the European event scene. In an era where "sponsorship" is frequently reduced to logo placement, Bravo has redefined the concept, transforming it into a sophisticated economic ecosystem that bridges the gap between cultural organizers and the corporate world. The Methodology of Value The distinction of Nadia Bravo Consulting lies in its departure from the superficial. The firm operates as a dynamic entity combining creativity with a rigorous, results-oriented vision. Its primary focus covers three critical verticals: sponsor acquisition, strategic consulting, and event management. In recent years, the economic sustainability of cultural, sporting, and social events has become increasingly dependent on intelligent sponsor acquisition. Bravo’s approach to this challenge is forensic. She specializes in creating effective, high-impact connections between organizations launching valuable initiatives and companies seeking meaningful communication platforms.   Rather than relying on generic outreach, her firm conducts constant, granular analysis of market sectors and brands. This allows for the development of customized sponsorship proposals that align the specific communication objectives of a company with the economic necessities of an organizer. The goal is consistency of values—ensuring that the sponsor and the project share a DNA that resonates with the audience. This method fosters long-lasting partnerships based on trust and high-quality visibility, rather than transient commercial transactions. A Global Footprint: From Milan to The Middle East Bravo’s influence extends well beyond the boundaries of Milan. Her firm offers consulting services designed to improve event design and positioning on an international scale. Her portfolio includes contributions to the Cannes Film Festival, the world’s most prestigious cinema gathering, where the convergence of art and commerce is at its most critical. Furthermore, she has played a significant role in fostering cross-border relations through Saudi-Italian networking events. By facilitating these high-level connections, she demonstrates a capacity to navigate complex cultural and economic landscapes, positioning her firm as a conduit for international business opportunities.   Industry Recognition This serious, data-driven approach has not gone unnoticed by the industry's gatekeepers. In September 2024, during the 81st Venice International Film Festival, Nadia Bravo was honored with the "Cinema e Industria" (Cinema & Industry) Award. This accolade is particularly significant as it celebrates the vital link between artistic creativity and industrial capability—the very essence of her work.   The Venice honor followed a major milestone in 2022, when she received the International Lifetime Achievement Award in Milan. These awards serve as validation of a career built on substance. They confirm that in 2025, the most influential figures in entertainment are often the ones constructing the stage, not just standing upon it.   For Hollywood Hills Magazine, Nadia Bravo represents the gold standard of modern consultancy: a figure who combines the flair of the event world with the solidity of corporate strategy, proving that the true art of influence lies in the ability to create value for everyone in the room. Follow Nadia Bravo on Instagram .

Photo Courtesy: Sam Pickart Markos Papadatos interviewed Robbie Simpson about “Finding Mr. Christmas” Season 2 on Hallmark, which is hosted by Jonathan Bennett. The late four-star U.S. Army general and former Secretary of State Colin Powell once said: “A dream doesn’t become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination and hard work.” An individual who is the epitome of this quotation is Robbie Simpson. On being a part of “Finding Mr. Christmas,” he exclaimed, “It was incredible! I am a huge fan of both Hallmark and reality TV. I literally grew up watching Hallmark movies and reality television.” “So, when this opportunity came my way, I thought marketing, which I’m so passionate about, and reality TV, which is such a no brainer, and it exceeded all of my expectations,” he said. “I think that’s mostly because of Jonathan and the energy and enthusiasm that he had on set, both on camera and off camera. It was really special because of the environment that he created,” he explained. Photo Courtesy: Sam Pickart Favorite part of the experience “This might sound taboo, but I really didn’t honestly think I would get as close to the other guys as I did. I’m a super competitive person… you have to be in this acting business in order to get auditions, have meetings and get agents. You need to be a competitive person.” “In all honesty, the only person that I was in competition with was myself because we were all so different so there was no comparison,” he noted. “This season, I was the only contestant from New York City, the only one who does theater full time, and I was the only LGBTQ contestant on the show,” he admitted. “I take great pride in that,” he underscored. “I’m so proud to be representing the LGBTQ community, especially because Jonathan is someone I looked up to forever. He has been acting and producing.” Photo Courtesy: YellowBelly photo “Also, I’m an actor, a director and producer in my own life back in New York,” he said. “So, getting a master class every day from Jonathan Bennett was really special.” “I didn’t take it lightly to be the sole gay cast member to be chosen by him. There were a lot of LGBTQ producers that were working behind the scenes on the show. I felt so honored to have been that person to have been picked.” “In my elimination, I told him that I really didn’t want to let Jonathan down, and it was a really heartfelt moment when I’m the only one he gets off the podium for and comes over and hugs. When he told me how proud I made him and our community, that meant the world to me. It really did!” Lessons learned from this journey On the lessons learned from this journey, he remarked, “It taught me that I am so much more capable that what I think I am. Also, it taught me not to put limitations on myself.” “I think it’s important not to underestimate yourself no matter what happens. That’s a lesson I’ve already taken in my life,” he acknowledged. Message for his new Hallmark fans Photo Courtesy: Sam Pickart “Hallmark fans have been incredible and interacting with them has been amazing. So many people have been reaching out through Instagram, and I’ve just received so many messages from people saying that they’ve felt like me and sharing about being gay.” “I’ve had a lot of kids reach out to me, especially younger kids so that has been great. I come from a community where there are not a lot of people like me. With them hearing my story, it has made them feel like they are not alone.” “Being embraced by all the other guys on the show (who are straight) has been really amazing,” he admitted. “I’m so grateful that the producers, Hallmark, and Jonathan Bennett, really created space for me to tell my story and to tell it authentically. I just really commend Hallmark for that; it has been really nice,” he concluded. To learn more about Robbie Simpson, follow him on Instagram .

Photography: Ylva Erevall In a town defined by fleeting spotlights, there are a handful of figures who do not seek the camera, but instead build the stage. Thierry "Theo" Dumont is one of them. His career is less a straight path and more a densely woven international matrix of communications, production, and festival curation, all designed to solve the one essential challenge for any filmmaker: how to get noticed, and more importantly, how to get credit. Dumont’s expertise comes from mastering the very systems he now helps others navigate. Starting with a degree in Communications from Florida International University, his early professional training was a masterclass in the mechanics of a major studio. He served as the Director of Corporate Communications for MGM Studios , a role that immersed him in the global publicity machinery behind properties like the James Bond franchise . This experience provided him with an understanding of scale, distribution, and the delicate art of managing a narrative on a worldwide level. Photography: Viviene Killelea Best, Getty Images Theo Dumont: The Master Strategist of the Short Film Revolution Theo Dumont ’s most disruptive move came when he shifted his focus to the independent sphere, recognizing that the short film—the industry’s most potent proving ground—lacked a legitimate gateway to the top tier. He co-founded the HollyShorts Film Festival , an entrepreneurial venture that has since exploded into a powerhouse institution. Critically, HollyShorts is now Oscar-Qualifying in four categories  and BAFTA-Qualifying , a formal, verifiable achievement that bypasses the traditional gatekeepers and places emerging talent directly on the world’s most prestigious awards lists. He is not just running a festival; he has built a verifiable talent accelerator , a fast-track to the Academy. His entrepreneurial spirit also led to the creation of the Mammoth Film Festival  and the Hollywood Comedy Festival , diversifying his impact across various genres and communities. Today, as a Managing Partner at Alta Global Media , Dumont leverages this unique blend of studio acumen and festival credibility for his clients. He and his firm have a confirmed, long-standing relationship with Academy Photography: Viviene Killelea Best, Getty Images Award-winning director Spike Lee  as a trusted advisor and publicist. A prime example of this strategic partnership is Dumont’s role as the Unit Publicist on the Spike Lee film BlacKkKlansman , a project that went on to secure the Grand Prix at the 2018 Cannes Film Festival  and win the Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay . His campaign work also includes high-profile films like the Spirit Award-Nominated See You Yesterday  and the Netflix feature Da 5 Bloods , making him a fixture in major campaign management. Dumont’s influence is undeniably global, a philosophy he attributes partly to his roots in Haiti and his international professional start at markets like MIPCOM in the South of France. Alta Global Media doesn't just attend festivals; they are active in all the major film markets from Cannes  and TIFF  to Berlin  and the Joburg Film Festival  in Africa, deliberately building bridges  between diverse continents and Hollywood financing. His production credits are diverse, including serving as an Executive Producer  on projects like the critically praised documentary-memoire Beba  and the forthcoming feature RISE , proving his commitment to getting original, culturally rich stories made and seen. He is also now embarking on a new venture, luxury real estate with his new label Dumont Luxury in collaboration with Keller Williams LA Harbor in Rancho Palos Verdes. In the fast-moving, attention-starved world of Hollywood, Theo Dumont  proves that true influence lies not in controlling the spotlight, but in building reliable structures  that ensure deserving stories and talent get their moment to shine on the largest possible stage. To learn more about The HollyShorts Film Festival co-founder Theo Dumont follow him on Instagram , LinkedIn , IMDb . HollyShorts London- November 13-16, 2025: Schedule+Tickets HollyShorts Dubai- December 12-15, 2025:   https://www.hollyshortsdubaifest.com/ TEOLEO EDM Radio Show: https://teoleoradioshow.transistor.fm/ HollyShorts 2026 Early Bird Deadline: January 30:  filmfreeway.com/HollyShortsFilmFestival   Dumont Luxury Real Estate:  dumontrealty.kw.com Alta Global Media Photography: Ylva Erevall

Markos Papadatos interviewed Gabriel Thaxton about his "Finding Mr. Christmas" Season 2 experience. On his “Finding Mr. Christmas” experience, he reflected, “Honestly, it was amazing! Obviously, it was a little rocky to start but I feel as though I gained a lot of confidence in the end. I was super sad to leave. I came out a more confident man, so I am very happy about that.” Regarding his future part of the experience, he responded, “That’s hard. For me, I really enjoyed the experience of Craig, Robbie and myself won the ‘Festive Face-off’ in Episode 2 when we were launching the presents.” “The journey taught me that you are always going to do your best if you just stay your authentic self. Don’t think about what other people are going to think or if you are going to be accepted or not,” he observed. “That was essentially my experience on the show. I was so scared to be myself that I ended up falling on my face in the first episode. Then, later, I did so much better… when I got it out of my head and when I trusted I was good enough,” he added. Working with Jonathan Bennett and Melissa Peterman On working with Jonathan Bennett and Melissa Peterman, he said, “They are such accepting and personable people… it is like talking to friends that you are already know. They are superstars but it doesn’t feel like you are talking to superstars. It feels like you are talking to normal people with them.” “As hard as it was for me to get comfortable in that experience, they made it that much easier,” he added. Future plans Regarding his future plans, he shared, “I will continue modeling like I’ve been doing for the past seven years, and I’ve added some acting classes. I go to Acting class twice a week, and I’ve been doing really in it. I’ve been going to it since April, and as a result, I feel a lot better (as an actor).” “If I was given a second shot, I would have killed it in the competition,” he said with a sweet laugh. Message for Hallmark fans For his new Hallmark fans, Thaxton expressed, “Honestly, the Hallmark fans are so graceful. As hard as it was to see myself get that nervous and have a nervous breakdown in the first episode, everybody was so kind. They were all rooting for me and they were made me feel so much better about my experience on the show, and I felt so supported.” “The Hallmark fans are the best,” he said, effusively. To learn more about Gabriel Thaxton, follow him on Instagram .

Photo Credit: DSW Photography Markos Papadatos interviewed Logan Shephard about his experience in Season 2 of "Finding Mr. Christmas," which is hosted by Jonathan Bennett. Albert Einstein once said: “Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value.” This quote applies to Logan Shephard. 'Finding Mr. Christmas' Season 2 Regarding his experience on the Hallmark reality show, Shephard exclaimed, “It was amazing and so cool! Overall, it was such a fun experience.” “Going into it, you have kind of an expectation what it’s going to be like, but it turned out so much better. When you think about reality, you instantly think about a competition, but what come out of it was a brotherhood, friendships, and a family," he said. “There were a lot of heartfelt moments that you just want to think about constantly,” he admitted. “It was so much better than I ever could have imagined.” Working with Jonathan Bennett and Melissa Peterman On working with Jonathan Bennett and Melissa Peterman, Shephard said, “Jonathan and Melissa are awesome! Jonathan is so great, very personable and he is such a hoot. Jonathan knows how to connect with you, and he makes you feel like you are welcome and there for a reason.” “Melissa is so funny! When you first meet her, you get a little bit starstruck in a way, but she breaks the ice. Then, it’s like talking to a regular friend. The banter and the wittiness keeps going," he said. Lessons learned from 'Finding Mr. Christmas' On the lessons learned from "Finding Mr. Christmas," he reflected, "It taught me to definitely not be as tense. You want to do so well and be perfect but it taught me to relax a little bit and let it be what it is. Also, to really have fun with it.” Future plans Regarding his future plans, he shared, "To continue working on this acting dream. That’s the main goal. I am getting married next year in Scotland, so I am very excited about that. It will be in a castle and I will be wearing a kilt, so I’m looking forward to that.” Shephard on Drake Kuyper and Jake Schum Shephard had great words about Drake Kuyper and Jake Schum, who were eliminated from the reality show prior to him. “Those were the two that I connected with the most," he admitted. "Jake was the first friend that I had there. I think I connected with Jake most of all, and we would always had great conversations." "Also, getting to know Drake felt like talking to a younger brother. They both became brothers in general, and it was great to connect with both of them," he noted. Stage of his life On the title of the current chapter of his life, Shephard revealed, "The Up & Up." Favorite motto to live by On his favorite motto to live by, Shephard said with a sweet laugh, "Just keep livin'." He shared some of the best advice he has ever been given: "Be true to yourself and stay authentic." Superpower of choice and favorite hobbies His superpower of choice would be "intelligence," and his favorite hobby to unwind and relax is "crocheting." Message for his Hallmark fans For his new Hallmark fans, Shephard expressed, "Thank you so much. Their love and support was great! The connections I’ve been able to make with them and the care they have watching and comment is just incredible. I can’t thank them enough.” To learn more about Logan Shephard, follow him on Instagram , IMDb . Photo Credit: DSW Photography.

They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but in this industry, it’s in the hands of the provider. Aesthetic medicine is the crown jewel of the beauty industry. From injectables to peels, lasers to needles and RF/heat devices to biostimulators—the industry has a treatment for every person, every concern. So why is it that the same treatment can yield such drastically varying results for different people? The answer is simple—it’s not the procedure, it’s the provider. Aesthetic treatments have the power to achieve results that were unfathomable before. Along with those advances in technology comes the introduction of new procedures, boosters, add ons, etc. We see Kim Kardashian fly to South Korea to receive PDRN (also known as salmon sperm) facials. Hailey Bieber raves about getting PRP and PRF injections. Jennifer Aniston, Lindsay Lohan and many others swear by fractional laser facials for their red carpet glow. The question, then, is with all the options available at your fingertips, which one is the best? The answer is—it depends! Aesthetic medicine is very targeted to each person’s specific goals and anatomy. What works great for one person (yes, celebs included) may not work well for another. This is where the most important tool in the process comes into play—the provider. A qualified provider will assess your specific needs and create a custom plan that will work for YOU, not a cookie cutter regimen designed for everyone. So before you run to your local medspa or derm clinic to get your Morpheus 8 treatment, research the provider and do a consult before booking. Once you decide on a treatment plan, it’s time to book the procedure. Doing the right research will ensure that you get the glow you want. After all, don’t we all want to be a glow getter?

With Nathaniel Rothrock on ' Rhythm And Smooth', Dress: Patrick Saint Jean, Photography: Zoe Taylor Markos Papadatos interviewed acclaimed actress Catherine Curtin of “Stranger Things” and “Orange is the New Black” about starring in the Off-Broadway show “Pen Pals.” “Pen Pals” was written by Michael Griffo and directed by SuzAnne Barabas. It features a rotating cast of actresses, and it celebrates the power of friendship through handwritten letters that were exchanged over five decades between two women Bernie (Catherine Curtin) and Mags (Marcia Cross). ‘Pen Pals’ experience On starring in “Pen Pals,” Curtin said, “Doing ‘Pen Pals’ has been so interesting! I think Marcia Cross is a genius. I love working with her, so that has been really great! It’s such an interesting script because it’s a little bit different every night, and I really love that.” “The audience is your partner on some levels. It’s never going to be the same because each audience is different and has a different personality,” she said. “One night the script is a little funnier, the other night, it’s sadder, or the other night it’s too sad, so you try to pick it up a little bit. It’s like an animal. I love art that is alive and movable; it’s like a movable feast,” Curtin acknowledged. Working with Marcia Cross On working with  Marcia Cross  as her acting p artner (as Mags), Curtin said, “First of all, Marcia is so classy! She is such a really great human being… she is so gentle, smart, together, fabulous, on it, and aware.” “Marcia brings that to the stage each time. She is such a hard worker, and I love working with hard workers; I just do. Marcia goes for it each time,” she said. “I did this play once before with Sharon Lawrence, who I absolutely adore! I love Sharon Lawrence, and I love how courageous she is, and I love how Marcia is so courageous too,” Curtin elaborated. “I also had the chance to do it with Gail Winar too, and they are all fascinating women and actors. Honestly, I feel grateful to have done this show with all three of them,” Curtin added. Lessons learned from this show On the lessons learned from this play, Curtin reflected, “It’s weird because when I was a kid about 12 years old, we had pen pals. We only wrote a couple of letters back and forth. When I wrote them, I remember being very startled that there was another person in the world who was like me and felt like me.” “I didn’t keep up with that pen pal, which is a regret,” he admitted. “Reflecting on that, that was the first time for me, that I really clued in to a part of who I am inside, and was the first introduction to that part of me.” “This show just enables that, and it brings it up and it brings me out. I am very grateful. I am learning to be stronger. The show is giving me this way of being in a world that is stronger than I have been. I really think this play is making me stronger,” she elaborated. ‘Stranger Things’ On her experience being a part of “Stranger Things,” Curtin said, “I love ‘Stranger Things.’ Who doesn’t love ‘Stranger Things?’ The creators of that show, The Duffer Brothers, are two of the kindest people you are ever going to meet.” “They are such big stars and they are kind, gentle, humble and unassuming guys. Working on that set, you really feel protected, free and you really feel like you are being seen and your work is being seen,” she elaborated. “It is such a lovely set to work on! I loved working on it,” she explained. ‘Orange is the New Black’ On being a part of “Orange is the New Black,” she said, “I love ‘Orange is the New Black.’ When it came along, I felt so grateful to be able to tell that story. Prisons are really warehouses of souls.” “I love how ‘Orange’ really shined a light to the people in prisons, and we could fall in love with these characters. That was such an important thing that ‘Orange’ did. I was so glad to be a part of that, and I think they really wanted to be a part of this conversation,” she elaborated. “I was very grateful that ‘Orange’ put a human face to people behind bars. It really gave them hope and dreams, and it was very important,” she added. ‘Homeland’ Curtin also recalled her time on “Homeland.” “I loved ‘Homeland!’ What a great show that was. Those people were so smart. They were talking about bots, and all those things long before anybody else was,” she said. “That show was so well-researched,” she noted. “Talk about smart people. I loved the acting of that show, and I loved the intensity of it. ‘Homeland’ was so fun and such a very special show to have been a part of.” “I love politics and government service, and all the investigations they did, intellectually, emotionally on that show. I thought it was a really great show. I was very grateful to be a part of it,” she elaborated. Success Regarding her definition of the word success, Curtin said with a sweet laugh, “Success means being able to get my dogs to the dog park each day. I think that’s where I am right now.” “Success means that I understand how to care about the world, and I would like to help affect more change in the world in a positive way. That feels like success to me, and I haven’t figured out completely how to do that,” she explained. “Right now, I feel that art is more important than ever, especially with AI and everything coming on humanity. Art is one of the ways where we learn to continue to have humanity, and to respect and honor our humanity,” she elaborated. “A world of AI without humanity feels like a pretty crazy place for me, and that’s where the discussion is now. More than ever, it’s super important for art to be with us,” she noted. “Art is one of the pathways that we embolden and protect our humanity,” she added. Closing thoughts on ‘Pen Pals’ For fans and viewers, she expressed, “From this play, I want people to get the sense that we all matter… our feeling matter, our friends matter, and our loved ones matter.” Curtin continued, “Cruelty is not actually the way to be in this world. Authoritarianism is wrong, and people are good, and they want goodness. People want to be a part of a loving experience in their everyday lives, their work and in their art.” “The show ‘Pen Pals’ is a very simple story, and I am always stunned that audiences are so affected by this story of two women writing letters to each other for 50 years. It’s so important,” she concluded. To learn more about Catherine Curtin, follow her on   Instagram . Photo Credit for cover photo: Zoe Taylor. Dancer Partner in cover photo: Nathaniel Rothrock. Dress design in cover photo by: Patrick Saint Jean.

Markos Papadatos interviewed Nick Ritacco about starring in vertical dramas in the digital age. What inspires you each day as an actor? I love story-telling. Plain and simple. I think it is the most magnificent and fascinating human behavior and art form. I relish the opportunity to tell a story that has the power to touch someone so deeply that it just might change their life. I want to tell stories that stick with people. Getting the opportunity to create something and tell a story alongside a team of other artists is such a gift. How does it feel to be a part of the vertical dramas? I am so grateful that I have been given the opportunity to work with so many talented artists over the past two years. A lot of us were out of work during COVID and during the strikes and the Vertical industry has been a great opportunity for all of us to get back on our feet. I am also so happy to have reached so many fans of our work in the process. Verticals are quite impactful to a lot of people and I think that is so special. How was your experience being a part of the Vigloo family? I have only worked on one Vigloo show but it was an absolute blast. I was in “Campus Rivals” and it was so fun feeling like I was going to work with all of my friends.  How does it feel to be an actor in the digital age? At times it feels really challenging and overbearing. It often feels like there is a weight hanging around my neck in the form of social media presence. All of a sudden, we have this massive responsibility to throw ourselves out there and promote our work in a way that no one was asked to do 20 years ago. There are certain advantages to it as well. Our work circulates quickly and it is much easier to engage with potential collaborators and fans. I think the speed at which we operate is only going to continue to increase and my goal is to be ready to pivot when needed. What do your plans for the future include? I would love to start writing, acting in, and producing my own work. There are a lot of stories that I want to tell and a lot of talented people I want to work with. I have several stories that I am passionate about currently in the works. What is your advice for young and emerging actors? Be yourself. YOU are your secret weapon. Don’t try to be what someone else is “looking for.” Experience as much life as you can. Spend as much time as you can getting to know who you want to be and what you want to offer to the world. It will set you apart from everyone else because it will be yours, truly yours. What does the word success mean to you? (My favorite question) To truly be present in your life. Moment to moment. The world does its best job to make us feel like we aren’t enough and that we need to be doing a thousand things at once. In whatever you have decided to do in your life, wherever you have decided to do it and with whomever you have decided to do it with: be present.  What would you like to say to your fans and supporters? I say this to just about every fan I engage with every chance I get, but you are all so special to me. Without you, your love, and your passion for my work, I don’t get the opportunity to do what I love to do. You are all just as much a part of this equation as I am. Knowing that the stories I get to tell touch even just a few of you is so special to me. There are lots of ways that we can all choose to spend our time, especially on our phone. If we aren’t calling or texting people we love, our phones tend to serve as a source of trauma, divisiveness and bad news. So, I think it is a much more hopeful and positive inclination to, instead of doom scroll, go on a wild, silly, over-the-top romantic journey with all of us.  To learn more about actor Nick Ritacco, follow him on  Instagram  and visit his  website .

Italy is a brand often trapped in amber. The world sees it through a golden haze of nostalgia - ancient ruins, nonnas rolling pasta, the postcard perfection of the Amalfi Coast. It is beautiful, but it is static. In a cultural entrepreneurship scene that frequently relies on the glories of the past, one man has chosen to shatter the mirror. Alessandro Scarfiglieri is not interested in merely curating history. He is here to build the future. A multifaceted entrepreneur with a lifetime spent at the absolute apex of marketing and communications, he is rewriting the rulebook of national storytelling. He brings a pragmatism that is rare in the arts and a strategy that is lethal in business. His goal is not just a publishing venture. It is a calculated economic and cultural mission to take the "Italian System" and sharpen it into a competitive weapon on the global stage. The Architect of Influence Scarfiglieri’s approach is a study in contrasts. He blends the fire of passion with the cold steel of technical expertise. He is not a casual observer of the "Bel Paese." He is an architect of its image. His career has been forged on the frontlines of global business, giving him a method rooted in ruthless efficiency and a vision that stretches far beyond the Italian borders. He understands that in the modern world, a story isn't told; it is engineered. His personal obsessions—art, photography, design—are not idle hobbies. They are his arsenal. He wields them to construct a visual language that is sophisticated, coherent, and impossible to ignore. Building the Ecosystem At the center of his strategy sits InItaly.it . To call it a magazine or a tourism portal is an insult to the vision. Scarfiglieri has built a digital ecosystem. He saw a gaping hole in the market. The world was being fed stereotypes, but the international public was starving for the dream. They didn't want the Italy they knew; they wanted the Italy they felt. This platform is the strategic bridge. It connects the raw, unpolished authenticity of Italian tradition with the high expectations of the luxury market. It speaks the language of the contemporary traveler who demands depth, not just a view. The biggest challenge: making Italians “fall in love” again The external mission is to sell Italy to the world. The internal mission is far more subversive. Scarfiglieri wants to make Italians fall in love again. It is a bold challenge. He intends to use his digital tools to force a national rediscovery, urging citizens to look away from the famous monuments and into the soul of their own land. He operates on a simple, powerful truth: you cannot sell what you do not cherish. Italians must become the first believers. This philosophy births the "Citizen Ambassador." Scarfiglieri knows that in the experience economy, stones do not speak. People do. The territory is defined by its faces and its stories. The true value of Italy lies in the pride of those who live there, the locals who recount and protect their heritage. InItaly.it is the digital stage where this chorus of voices comes alive. Illuminating the Shadows "The world loves Italy, but often knows only a small part of what makes it unique." That is the diagnosis. Scarfiglieri’s cure is illumination. While traditional storytelling lazily circles the great art cities, his platform dives into the "shadow areas." He shines a spotlight on the historic villages that time forgot, the niche traditions that defy explanation, and the excellent craftsmanship that defines the Italian hands. Alessandro Scarfiglieri is not just publishing content. He is laying the bedrock for a global reference platform. He combines a visionary mind with a cultural sensitivity that is almost extinct in the industry. The endgame is clear. He is redefining Italy, taking its tangible and intangible heritage and transmuting it into a concrete opportunity for growth. He is turning the past into the future. You can follow InItaly.it on Instagram . InItaly website .

In the high-stakes theater of professional boxing, the team outside the ring is often just as vital as the fighter standing under the bright lights. On November 20, 2025, a partnership emerged that feels less like a standard corporate merger and more like the plot of an inspirational film. It blends the glitz of Hollywood celebrity, the calculated risk of Silicon Valley venture capital, and the gritty resilience of the East Coast boxing circuit. Metta World Peace, the NBA champion and mental health advocate, has officially joined forces with Paul Guarino, the founder of PG Sports, to co-manage super welterweight contender Chordale "The Gift" Booker. This collaboration is not merely a transaction; it is a convergence of three distinct life stories that are all defined by the same theme of redemption. At the center of this alliance sits Chordale Booker, a 34-year-old southpaw from Stamford, Connecticut, whose career has been a rollercoaster of brilliant highs and agonizing lows. Booker is a former elite amateur and Olympic Trials participant who has spent years chasing professional glory. His journey hit a devastating roadblock in March 2025 when he fought for the WBC and WBO world titles against the towering Sebastian Fundora in Las Vegas. That night ended in a fourth-round stoppage, a defeat that could have easily signaled the end for a lesser athlete. Yet Booker returned to the ring just months later in August, delivering a definitive knockout victory over veteran Patrick Allotey at the Royale Nightclub in Boston to prove he was far from finished. To guide Booker back to a world title shot in 2026, he needed a management team that understood resilience intimately. Enter Paul Guarino. The founder of PG Sports is a unique figure in the landscape of sports management. Diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) and using a wheelchair since his youth, Guarino built his agency from a college dorm room with nothing but determination and a laptop. His philosophy is encapsulated in his slogan, "My Life is My Card," and his track record speaks for itself. Guarino specializes in what the industry calls "distressed assets," or fighters who have been overlooked or written off by the major power brokers. He previously took middleweight Ian Green from a place of suicidal depression and career obscurity to a top-3 world ranking, proving he possesses the tactical brilliance to navigate the shark-infested waters of boxing politics. Adding the rocket fuel to Guarino’s operational ground game is Metta World Peace. The former NBA defensive icon has transitioned seamlessly into the world of high finance and mental health advocacy. Through his firm, Artest Management Group, he has moved beyond simple athlete representation to become a player in the venture capital space. His recent launch of Tru Skye Ventures, a fund targeting $100 million to back early-stage startups in wellness and tech, brings a level of financial sophistication rarely seen in boxing. World Peace views Booker not just as a boxer, but as a brand capable of transcending the sport. The strategy for this new triumvirate is to move Booker back into contention while simultaneously building his future outside the ring. They are discarding the predatory promoter-first model in favor of a holistic approach where the athlete is treated as a venture capital asset to be developed and protected. This means leveraging Metta World Peace’s corporate network to secure sponsorships in the health and wellness sectors that traditional boxing managers simply cannot access. It also means utilizing his "Artest University" platform to position Booker as an ambassador for mental resilience, allowing him to share his powerful story of overcoming legal troubles and career defeats with a global audience. For the boxing industry, this deal signals a fascinating shift. It combines Guarino’s ability to strategically maneuver fighters through the rankings with World Peace’s global influence and advocacy work. As Booker prepares for a massive campaign in 2026, he does so with a record of approximately 24 wins and 2 losses, but more importantly, he fights with a team that views his personal story of perseverance as his greatest asset. The unlikely friendship between a basketball legend, a wheelchair-bound visionary, and a redeemed fighter has evolved into a formidable enterprise, and the entire sports world will be watching to see if "The Gift" can finally be unwrapped on the world stage.