Celebrity Scene News Blog

” alt=”null” />

Appearing for a two day engagement on October 16 and 17, comedienne George Lopez played to a sold out crowds at the Las Vegas Hilton on both nights. With the lower priced tickets sold out virtually overnight, people were shelling out a minimum of $105 per ticket for George’s less than one hour show. He’s got some pretty loyal fans here; I watched about ten tickets be sold in the same number of minutes while I was waiting for my tickets five hours before the Saturday show.
Before the show started, monitors were used to play a review of his career and to promote his new late night show premiering November 9th. TBS ordered 24 weeks of the show and the 11 p.m. start time is intended to provide a jump on Dave and Conan, but after Leno with his 10 time slot. George’s late night show, “Lopez Tonight”, attempts to generate an interactive spark with a live audience and spontaneous guests like Samuel L. Jackson, Dane Cook and Sandra Bullock.
After a respectable six season run of the family sitcom George Lopez comprising 120 episodes on ABC, he’s ready for some high energy late night guests. Rumor has it that George was furious that his show was not renewed in 2008 because he wanted to wrap up some story lines. Adding insult to injury, this was the same time that ABC picked up 13 episodes of “Cavemen”. I guess George was pretty steamed about being valued at less than the “Cavemen” disaster.
George was raised by his grandmother in Los Angeles after his mother and father abandoned him. He worked his way up in comedy using Freddie Prince as a role model and got some good exposure appearing on the Arsenio Hall show. He appeared 16 times over the five years Arsenio was on the air, the most of any comic.
Did I mention he was Latino? Hard to forget, given the content of his stand up act. Slamming white people and promising that Latinos have all but taken over the United States gets some huge laughs, like having the white guy mow the lawn. Seems so crazy that it’s funny, I guess. Just as funny as beating your kid when he wants to have birthday party or how stupid whites are for talking about their kids going to college or trying to keep their kids from being hurt.
Hopefully “Lopez Tonight” doesn’t need to rely as much on ethnic humor as George’s standup routine. He’s way too talented for his energy to be cubbyholed into the Latino adding ethnic diversity to the late night circuit. It’s risky, but he’s got enough energy, talent and experience to pull it off.
Check out lopeztonight.com for more information, studio tickets, twitter, and facebook and, OMG, just incredible stuff that even white people can enjoy.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 23, 2009

MEDIA ALERT***MEDIA ALERT***MEDIA ALERT***

ATTENTION: ALL WORKING MEDIA, CAMERA CREWS AND STILL PHOTOGRAPHERS

THE ROAD TO ‘FAME’ STOPS AT PARIS LAS VEGAS

WHAT: “Fame” special movie screening red carpet.

A retelling of the original Oscar®-winning hit film, “Fame” follows a talented group of dancers, singers, actors and artists for four years at the New York City High School of Performing Arts.

WHO: Confirmed talent includes Emmy and Golden Globe-winner Debbie Allen. Portraying a dance teacher in the original, Allen graduates to Principal Simms in the current film.

Additional cast attending are bright new stars Kristy Flores (Rosie), Walter Perez (Victor), Asher Book (Marco), Paul McGill (Kevin), Paul Iacono (Neil), Kay Panabaker (Jenny), Kherington Payne (Alice) along with director Kevin Tanchareon.

Local Las Vegas entertainers to be announced.

The publicity campaign billed as ” One Returns”, lived up
to its expectations on Saturdays championship fight at the M.G.M s Grand
Arena. Floyd Mayweather Jr.40-0{25KOs} of Grand Rapids, Michigan won every
round of the 12 rounds against Juan Manuel Marquez 50-5-1(37KOs) of Mexico
City, Mexico. In a unanimous decision, Mayweather finished first, maintaining a perfect record with his style and finesse. He danced his way through this fight!

Mayweather, the Six-Time World Champion was too fast for Marquez.
In the second round Mayweather delivered a powerful left knocking down
Marquez, the Five-Time World Champion. There is no denying that Marquez
was in excellent shape and certainly had some great combinations, winning rounds in one, two and twelve. Marquez, no doubt is a tough opponent.
He however could not match the speed of Mayweathers jabs and power punches.
” He’s a tough fighter, and I give him all the respect”, stated Mayweather.

Judge Glen Hamata scored it 114-113for Mayweather. Judge Adalyne Byrd had it 119-109 for Mayweather and Judge Bill Santos scored it117-111.According to Mayweather, he would like to take boxing to the next level. When asked if he would have an interest in Ultimate Fighting he stated” Boxing has been around for hundreds of years. I wish Dana White nothing but success. I’m only interested in promoting boxing. That’s what I’ve been training for since I was a kid.”

Compubox stats showed Mayweather landing 274 punches to Marquez’s 119 and in power punches -189 to 74 for Marquez. So Mayweather will continue to train and looks forward his next fight with
Manny Pacquiao. Although Shane Mosley now wants his shot at Mayweather-
creating a bit of shouting match while Mayweather was being interviewed-
nothing has been decided concerning that fight. The Mayweather-Marquez fight
had a packed house of over 14,000 in M.G.M.s Grand Arena and over 2500 in
the Conference Center for closed circuit. Among those who attended the prestigious fight were Ray jay, P. Diddy, and the governor of California-Arnold Schwarzenegger

There are times when all of us need to get away to the ocean, especially when you don’t live there. It is also an awe inspiring experience in dining, when you’re at the right spot.

One eatery that’s 9 months old, located in Dana Point, California is Mahe-located at 24961 Dana Point Harbor Drive. Mahe is the focal point for people to gather and have a cocktail or savor some of the most outstanding seafood and sushi available on the west coast.

I learned about this restaurant from Mat Molina, the VIP host and service attendee, who is also one the up and coming public relations specialist finishing up at Chapman College. Mat’s dynamic personality is what helps patrons return to Mahe as their place to dine and have good conversation. In fact, I met Mat at The Sundance Film Festival in Parker, Utah.

When I arrived at Mahe, there was an hour wait. I was greeted by Toby Reece the owner; and his manager Bill Senteno. They both informed me that I would have a lot of fun and they were right. Mat, escorted me to the cocktail area where I proceeded to listen to some in-the-pocket folk music and the watch the X-Games on their Plasma Screens.

In this contemporary setting, John Ford; an agent for baseball players introduced himself to me. Before I knew it, I absorbed a lot of information about baseball. So, the evening went by relatively fast.

Within a short time I was brought to the sushi dining area where I explored the Asian culture. The sushi special included spicy tuna, cucumber, avocado, tempura, asparagus with yellowtail iponzu and green onions for $15.00. It was oh, so good. Mahe has four separate dining areas which include the Tapon yuke dining room (were the chefs themselves perform quite a show), the sushi bar, outside patio dining and inside dining.

There’s also the cocktail lounge where patrons dine and catch the great entertainment that’s provided on the weekends. Mahe’s happy hour is 4:30 to 6:30 seven days a week, were there’s never a dull moment. By now, I’m sure anyone desiring seafood will consider Mahe. My culinary journey has taken me throughout the United States.

I would highly recommend this establishment. Concerning my culinary trip here, I had Mat serve a plate of fresh grilled salmon with teriyaki sauce and steamed string beans with carrots. Executive Chef Nat Garthwheap, orginally from Montana, oversees the quality of food and how it’s prepared. What’s not to like about Mahe? Fabulous cuisine and beautiful people.

It’s all there for you and your family. On the weekends try their lunch. Now, one last detail. Try their Crème Brule with blueberries. That’s a refreshing way to please your sweet tooth. C.S.N. rates Mahe on a scale of 1-10… a 10. Bingo!

Pete Allman is a Las Vegas-based commentator, broadcast personality and celebrity interviewer. He also produces inspirational messages for television and other media. Contact him at peteonthescene@yahoo.com or (702)265-9099. Visit www.CelebrityScene.com

On any given night except Friday, when Aroma Bakery and Cafe is closed -there’s a line of people waiting to dine on their outside patio, or inside where Aroma’s bakery can entice their taste buds.

This eatery, located at 18947 Ventura Boulevard- is the hot spot were a diverse group of people gather for lunch or dinner and have wonderful conversations. Some of the entries I’ve enjoyed are the Tostada Salads and Smoked Salmon. The Tuna and Bass skewers are also very popular.

Like any good eatery, one must dine in a good atmosphere, have friendly service and expedite the orders. It appears that everyone from the servers, who just so happen to be attractive ladies- to the salad chefs and cooks- add a little love with their expertise. Aroma also serves breakfast for the early birds. Such items as Omelet Wraps, the no. 1 breakfast which includes: two eggs any style, vegetable salad, feta cheese, olive spread cheese, served with a basket of fresh baked bread, homemade jams, fresh orange juice, coffee or tea, all for $11.95.

Ah, but for those of you who have a sweet tooth, you must try their hot chocolate cake or any of Aroma’s 50 deserts. What’ not to like about any of this?

So, if you want your event catered or want to have your cuisine delivered, simply call 818-757-0477. In Hollywood Aroma Bakery and Cafe is located at 7373 Sunset Boulevard. Their phone number is 323-850-8120.C.S.N., on a scale of 1-10 rates Aroma a 9.

See you there!

Pete Allman is a Las Vegas-based commentator, broadcast personality and celebrity interviewer. He also produces inspirational messages for television and other media. Contact him at peteonthescene@yahoo.com or (702)265-9099. Visit www.CelebrityScene.com

The game of poker is truly a game of skill and in today’s society, thanks to television coverage and all those celebrities indulging in the game, it is a household word. Legend has it, that poker dates back to 900 BC in China when Mu-Tsung was said to have played a form of ” domino cards”.

It has also been said that poker evolved in the 1400’s as a European game. However, Poker in America started in Mississippi on riverboats and was a compliment to three card Monti, which was dealt with a 20 card deck that only contained aces, kings, queens, jacks and10’s. The big step in the evolution of poker was in Nevada where it was declared illegal in 1910. In California the Attorney General declared it a game of skill, thus anti-gambling laws couldn’t stop the masses from playing poker. Then, in 1931 poker was declared a legal game in Nevada.

Today, one of the most respected and successful places to play poker is The Bicycle Casino, located in Bell Gardens-10 minutes south of downtown Los Angeles. In speaking with Kelley O’ Hara, Director of Marketing for Bicycle Casino and Stanley Sludikoff of Poker Player Newspaper, I learned why Bicycle Casino is so popular throughout Southern California and holds more tournaments than any casino in the United States.

First it starts with the gentlemen who understand what the public wants in poker. Haig Kelegian, the managing partner of Bicycle Casino had the vision to first unite the card casinos in Southern California. Mr. Kelegian formed Golden State Gaming Associates, now California Gamming Association to cohesively work together in promoting card games, especially poker and Pai-Chi. But as with any business it takes team effort, that’s where The Bicycle Casino outshines other properties. Their executive chef, Mario Conte for one, has been with the organization forever 20 years.

Chef Mario uses family recipes and has a large staff, some of which have been with him for nearly 20 years. His philosophy is: ” only use the best products and cook from the heart”. That philosophy radiates with the entire staff at Bicycle Casino. What’s not to like with a chef from Italy, a diverse staff, and an all new State-of-the-Art Grand Poker Ballroom. It’s an impressive and exciting place to visit.

A place where you never know who’s playing poker or for that matter Pai Chi. I came across some actors I interviewed over the years and one of them was Glen Thurman. Glen is not only a fine actor but he is an excellent poker player, who enjoys playing at The Bicycle Casino. This event celebrated the 25th anniversary of The Bicycle Casino and the opening of their Grand Poker Ballroom.

Pete Allman is a Las Vegas-based commentator, broadcast personality and celebrity interviewer. He also produces inspirational messages for television and other media. Contact him at peteonthescene@yahoo.com or (702)265-9099. Visit www.CelebrityScene.com

Special Tribute Update: After posting this memorial Tribute to many of this summer’s celebrity passings, a longtime close acquaintance and friend to many writers suddenly passed.

Marleen Marino, publisher and founder of VegasCommunityOnline passed just recently. So, I celebrate her work and support for me and others on VCO. I never thought her name would bein this story, which she also posted on VCO on my Celebrity Scene News column. She will be missed. –Pete Allman

This has been a summer of celebrity losses like none I can remember. It has been sad, heartbreaking and shocking to see so many familiar faces and voices leave us. Many of those who have passed on had roots in Las Vegas. Some of them performed here, lived here, regularly visited here or even have family members here, but no doubt that all of them are survived by countless fans in Las Vegas.

The shocking death of Michael Jackson was worldwide news, and that fan loyalty will continue for a long time; perhaps, it will never die. In Las Vegas, there are many friends and family members who loved Michael, among them, Joe Jackson, the patriarch of the Jackson family dynasty and someone I’ve known a long time and spent time with over the years.

I wish Joe and the family well. I was around for some of the memorial events. Sad, truly sad. Who would have ever though Michael’s phenomenal talent would be gone so suddenly?

And there were many other celebrities who were added to the list of our beloved favorites who have passed on recently and were mourned by many in Las Vegas. Among them were:

–Farrah Fawcett

–Walter Cronkite

–Gale Storm

–Karl Malden

–David Carradine

–Ed McMahon

–Steve McNair

–Koko Taylor

–Fred Travalena

–Billy Mays

and Gidget, the star Chihuahua

In the stunning news coverage of Michael’s passing, several of the other deaths could not receive as much airtime and print space as they otherwise would have, so I want to remember them for their accomplishments. They each brought a special talent to the celebrity scene.

The iconic, brave, well-tressed actress Farrah Fawcett of “Charlie’s Angels,” veteran funny girl Gale Storm of “My Little Margie” and other screen productions, and the super-solid newsman Walter Cronkite, were familiar to nearly all of us who spent time watching television during the last century. I can’t say with certainty that the journalist spent any significant time in our city, but he undoubtedly reported on the events at the very foundation of Old Vegas all the way through its explosive growth.

All of the stars and celebs mentioned before are known for being in the traditional star-making industries, but what is notable about Billy Mays’ inclusion on that list is that he was not a singer, dancer, film star, news anchor, sports figure or any of the other ‘usual’ celebrities.

Mays, who delighted countless people with his sales ability, only recently became a TV screen celebrity in the reality TV show tradition as co-star of the insightful show focused on the professional “pitch men” selling products around the clock on infomercials and at public events. But that TV show was not what made him famous: it was his distinctive voice and charisma and sense of pitch-perfect timing. He was the ultimate pitch man! He will be missed.

One of my associates, Alex Ayzin, is a California-based business broker who met Billy Mays and became friends after they encountered each other several times at tradeshows and seminars. I was to meet Mays in person, and I am saddened by his passing. I’m sure that there will be others in the profession who will do amazingly well, but I wonder if any of them will become as huge in the ranks of celebrities as Mays did.

In the field of covering stars and famous people, it is both amazing and touching to see how many lives are deeply influenced because of the spirit and style of those who gained the status of “celebrity.” They gave us much, and we remember them fondly—even down to the smallest, the four-legged “Taco Bell star,” Gidget.

So in closing, keep your visions positive, keep positive people around you, and know that God is there for you.

Pete Allman is a Las Vegas-based commentator, broadcast personality and celebrity interviewer. He also produces inspirational messages for television and other media. Contact him at peteonthescene@yahoo.com or (702)265-9099. Visit www.CelebrityScene.com.

The Fairmont Miramar Hotel has celebrated the tradition of the famous Moreton Bay Fig Tree since 1921. Located inside the gate of The Fairmont Miramar, the tree’s lofty, 80-foot height and breathtaking 120-foot network of branches make it the second largest tree of its kind in California. It is also the inspiration for The Fig Restaurant.

Just a few months old, The Fig Tree Restaurant is a joy and splendor. On one recent Easter Sunday, I invited business broker Alex Ayzin as my guest to enjoy brunch. I must admit that the brunch served that afternoon was one of the highlights of my dining journeys.

The former restaurant at the Fairmont Miramar was charming with that old-world charm, the type of place many top stars would dine. However, the newly remodeled Fig Tree is refreshing with an all-new menu.

The Executive Chef, Raymond Garcia definitely receives top scores for his wholesome recipes. May I recommend the Roulade of Sole with Tomato and Leeks? This entrée has just the right amount of spices, and it’s prepared as a broiled or baked selection.

Sometimes my eyes are bigger than my stomach. I had Alex try the Roasted Squid with carrots and Farro.

“This is a delight, and it’s not gummy,” Alex commented.

This certainly was a great way to start the afternoon. With excellent service, on a sunny afternoon overlooking the pool, there was nothing overlooked. In fact, one of the unique features of the Fig Tree is their own water similar to Pellegrino ®.

They also serve their own bread baked for them on Fig tree planks, along with presenting the menus composed of wood. This should give you a taste to help your imagination.

Other delightful items on the menu include Grilled Prawn and Fava Bean Salad, Poached Duck Eggs with Asparagus and Prosciutto, Honey Glazed Pork with Stone Ground Polenta.

For a light taste, one may indulge in these appetizers, which include lobster and English Pea Salad, Grilled Mortadella with Pink Lady Apples, Tomato and Buffalo Mozzarella, and Chicken Liver Parfait served with Fig Marmalade with a Grilled Baguette.

Now, here are the desserts: Strawberry Shortcake, Chocolate Torte, Chantilly, along with assorted sorbets and Pecan Pie.

All the desserts are prepared in the kitchen. They all are scrumptious!

Ah, there is one more little detail that I should highlight: the waiters.

The applause goes to Allen, Jeffery and Will for their attentiveness and wonderful attitude.

We thank the entire staff of The Fig Tree Restaurant, and special thanks go out to Matthew Leman, the Assistant Director of Food and Beverage of The Fig Restaurant and Michelle Benva, the restaurant manager. CSN rates The Fig Tree a 10.

NOTE: Over 120 years old, the Moreton Bay famous fig tree is believed to be the largest of its species in the nation. The trunk of the ficus macrophylla, or strangler tree, is about 38 feet in circumference. In September 1970, it was designated as the City of Santa Barbara’s official “tree of notable historic interest.”

Pete Allman is a Las Vegas-based commentator, broadcast personality and celebrity interviewer. He also produces inspirational messages for television and other media. Contact him at peteonthescene@yahoo.com or (702)265-9099. Visit www.CelebrityScene.com.

The loss of Michael Jackson was like a 9.5 earthquake hitting Los Angeles. Jackson had been rehearsing at the Staples Center in Los Angeles for his performance of a 50-night concert tour in England. Apparently, the rigorous rehearsing put a toll on Jackson; it didn’t, however, have anything to do with his death.

For a number of years, Jackson has undergone surgery, which has caused him to take medication, and those medications can be very dangerous. Jackson was found in his home in Holmby Hills not breathing.

At that time, he was likely dead according to TMZ, the Los Angeles based celebrity TV program. Nevertheless, he was rushed to the UCLA Medical Center where the doctors had tried to resuscitate him, once again, after his cardiologist, who was at the scene of the incident, had also tried in vain.

The Los Angeles Times was originally quoted as saying he was in a deep coma. The truth of the matter is that he had a cardiac arrest and was dead when the paramedics had arrived at his home.

I’ve known the Jackson family for quite a few years now, especially Joe Jackson, Michael’s father, who resides in Las Vegas. Needless to say, Joe was in a state of shock.

Recently, when I was talking to Joe about Michael doing concerts and about Vegas, he would always tell me there’s nobody like Michael who could fill a show room every night of the week. In regards to health, Joe himself has had his share of medical problems.

At 79, he has taken a more serious attitude at keeping his body healthy. In fact, when I visited Joe recently, he had given me some vitamins for my health. Approximately two years ago, I had a birthday party which Joe attended (photo at right).

Around that time, I had to go to UCLA for prostate surgery. After the successful operation, I have been able to use this experience to speak out and influence men to get regular checkups to reduce prostate disorders and cancer risks.

In a sense, Joe and I both have had our share of medical issues and could understand how precious life can be. My thoughts and prayers are with him at this time.

REMEMBERING MICHAEL JACKSON

Michael Jackson was one of the first entertainers who went to Moscow after the collapse of communism. He performed all over the region from Berlin to Warsaw to Moscow, performing to sold-out stadiums. He helped to change people’s attitudes from hate to love and inspired people worldwide. This is one of the things that Michael Jackson will be remembered for accomplishing.

According to California-based Alex Ayzin, a producer formerly from Moscow, Jackson was one of his inspirations for producing “The Winds of Freedom,” a symphonic tribute to the best in the human spirit.

This is one of the things that Michael Jackson will be remembered for.

It seems that it was just yesterday when I had attended the party at the Neverland Ranch which was thrown by the Las Vegas Hollywood Magazine’s publisher, Simon Sahouri.

Even at that time, Michael was dressed in disguise; he was very shy for one, and it never seemed that Michael enjoyed his childhood.

But let’s face it, it wasn’t a normal childhood, and it was always work, so Michael grew up fast–real fast. But one thing he will always be remembered as is the King of Pop.

Michael had a magic about him when on stage, and his music covered a wide genre of topics. Probably his biggest album was “Thriller,” which sold around 50 million copies worldwide. And, so we should remember the good things that Michael Jackson has left us with which is his music and his philosophy and songs that he has written.

There are a number of celebrities that offered their condolences to the Jackson family.

Among them were Steven Spielberg, Miley Cyrus, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, Wyclef Jean, Smokey Robinson, Britney Spears, and many others.

Governor Schwarzenegger stated, “Michael was top phenomenon who never stopped pushing the envelope of creativity. Although there were serious questions about his personal life, Michael was undoubtedly a great entertainer and his popularity spanned over generations and the globe.”

Michael and four of his brothers performed for years as the Jackson 5, and that was the beginning of the mega star’s love affair with his fans.

I think that one former Jackson 5 member, his brother Jermaine Jackson, stated it best: “My bother the legendary King of Pop, Michael Jackson, passed away on Thursday, June 25 at 2:26 pm. It is believed he suffered cardiac arrest in his home; however, the cause of death is unknown until results of an autopsy are known.

His personal physician, who was with him at the time, attempted to resuscitate my brother as did the paramedics.

While transporting him to UCLA medical Center, upon arriving at the hospital at approximately 1:14 p.m., a team of doctors including emergency physicians and cardiologists attempted to resuscitate him for a period of more than one hour and were unsuccessful. My family requests that the media please respect our privacy during this tough time. And may all love be with you Michael, always.”

SADDENED FANS SHOW THEIR LOVE AND RESPECT

Upon hearing the news that Michael Jackson was being taken to the hospital, fans began to gather. Then the news of his passing hit fans in the hearts, and they continued to flock to the hospital for a vigil.

One of the celebrities, who waited at the emergency exit of the hospital, was Porscha Coleman (pictured here), former star of the TV series “The Parker’s.”

She and her mother, Betty, stated that they just could not believe that this was happening as she could see the green helicopter taking Michael’s body from the medical center to the LA County coroner’s office.

“I love Michael Jackson. God bless him,” said Wyclef Jean.

“It’s always hard to lose a friend,” Smokey Robinson expressed.

Although Michael is no longer with us, his spirit will live on and his music will be part of our lives.

A public viewing is not yet finalized, plans are changing to accommodate the ever-increasing crowd size anticipated. Wherever it will be, it will be the largest size tribute in history, and it will commemorate the biggest star in world history.

Pete Allman is a Las Vegas-based commentator, broadcast personality and celebrity interviewer. He also produces inspirational messages for television and other media. Contact him at peteonthescene@yahoo.com or (702)265-9099.

The CineVegas Film Festival is honoring Jon Voight with the Marquee Award and Willem Dafoe with the Vanguard Actors Award on Sunday, June 14, at the 11th annual event, which takes place at the Rain Nightclub in the Palms Resort in Las Vegas. George Kuchar and Mike Kuchar will receive the Directors Award, among other honorees.

CineVegas is recognized as one of the most popular film festivals in the West. The festival, which recognizes legendary actors, directors and producers, also gives young and upcoming filmmakers an opportunity to showcase their productions.

CineVegas runs from June 10–15 and it is open to the public. The festival’s series of films are being shown at Brendan Theaters at the Palms. 

Tickets range from one-day film screening passes for $40 up to $500 for an all-access pass.

Honoree Voight received his acclaim in the 1960s Best Picture winner “Midnight Cowboy,” for which he earned an Academy award nomination. Veteran actor Voight enjoyed taking on other challenging roles, such as “Deliverance” and “Coming Home,” the film for which he received an Academy Award for Best Actor.

Voight played Howard Cosell, the real-life sportscaster and journalist, in “Ali,” a role that earned him the fourth Oscar nomination. Voight is a humble and sensitive person who is always giving his time to worthy causes.

He is currently starring in the seventh season of the hit TV drama “24” where he plays the villain Jonas Hodges. As part of the tribute, CineVegas is presenting the newly re-mastered director’s cut of “Lookin’ to Get Out” (1982), which was directed by Hal Ashby. Voight stars and co-wrote the film, which was made in Las Vegas. A Q&A with Voight and guests will follow the screening.

Honoree Willem Dafoe, a two-time Academy Award nominated actor, who has appeared in more than 70 films, is a founding member of the Wooster Group, the New York-based experimental theater.

Among his upcoming film releases are Lars Von Trier’s “Antichrist,” Werner Herzog’s “My Son, My Son” and Wes Anderson’s “Fantastic Mr. Fox,” as well as “Day Breakers” and “Cirque du Freak.” A conversation with Dafoe will be held following the screening of his 1982 film “The Loveless.”

The Kuchar brothers wrote fantastic melodramas and genre stories. Using their Bronx neighborhood and nearby places as staging spots. They used handmade props and costumes and enlisted their neighborhood friends as actors to play big film stars of the 1950s.

The Kuchar’s classic films include “Hold Me While I’m Naked,” “Sins of the Fleshapoids” and “Summer of No Return.” Now in their 60s, they continue to produce videos and have made over 100 productions.

A collection of new shorts by them will be shown as part of their Vanguard Directors Award presentation Sunday evening. In addition, a documentary about the brothers, “It Came from Kuchar,” which was produced by Jennifer Kroot, will play in the Pioneer Documentaries section of the festival.

Kellee Santiago and Jenova Chen will be honored with the inaugural Planet Illogica Award for Excellence in New Media. This award is for artists working in the field of video games who have pushed the technological boundaries of storytelling.

Santiago and Chen earned their MFA degrees where they met, at the University of Southern California Interactive Media program housed in the School of Cinematic Arts. Santiago’s research focused on game design, interactive narrative, and physical and gestural interfaces for digital media.

Chen was focusing on interactive animation and video game design when the two collaborated with a student team to develop the game “Cloud.”

It went on to become critically acclaimed, after which the two decided to found their own studio, ThatGameCompany. The company landed a three-game deal with Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. to develop downloadable games for Playstation Network.

Their most recent critically-acclaimed release, “Flower,” explores the tension between urban and nature, as users blow wind and fly petals across dream-like natural landscapes, and has been the top-downloaded game on the PlayStation Network.

To get more information and to buy tickets, go to www.CineVegas.com.