The Tonight Show with Jay Leno
Tuesday, 31 January 2012
Here are some video highlights from Madonna's appearance on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno yesterday (Monday 30 January).
January 2012
Madonna feels kinship with vilified Wallis Simpson
Tuesday, 31 January 2012
Madonna says it's pretty obvious why she was drawn to the story of Wallis Simpson - the American divorcee who was vilified for persuading a British king to give up his throne in order to marry her.
The pop superstar said she had been fascinated for years by Simpson before deciding to write and direct her second film, 'W.E', which opens widely in U.S. movie theaters on Friday.
The movie chronicles the romance and 1930s marriage of King Edward VIII and Simpson, who were shunned by British society after Edward renounced the throne to be with her.
'I could understand a lot of aspects of Wallis Simpson's life, having people...view you from the outside, make judgments about you, have opinions about you, write things about you that are untrue - and not feel like you are able to defend yourself, that sometimes kind of makes you feel helpless,' Madonna, 53, told Reuters Television in an interview.
'She didn't commit a crime, she fell in love...She says in the film, 'If you do this, if we get married, I will be the most hated woman in the world,' and she was... Obviously I can relate to her life on certain levels. I think that a lot of people who are public figures have the same experience,' Madonna said.
Madonna, who moved to England during her second marriage, to British director Guy Ritchie, said she too has made sacrifices for love.
'Whether you move to another country and you give up your roots, or when you have children - you love your children, but you have to give up say your free time, your sleep. So I think we are in the process of making those sacrifices for love on a daily basis if we're in relationships or if we have children,' she said.
'W.E' stars Abbie Cornish as a New Yorker in the 1990s who becomes infatuated with the marriage between Edward and Simpson who is played by Andrea Riseborough.
The film has been characterized by movie critics as visually stunning but lacking in focus. But Madonna won the best original movie song Golden Globe in January for 'Masterpiece' from the 'W.E' soundtrack.
The pop superstar said she had been fascinated for years by Simpson before deciding to write and direct her second film, 'W.E', which opens widely in U.S. movie theaters on Friday.
The movie chronicles the romance and 1930s marriage of King Edward VIII and Simpson, who were shunned by British society after Edward renounced the throne to be with her.
'I could understand a lot of aspects of Wallis Simpson's life, having people...view you from the outside, make judgments about you, have opinions about you, write things about you that are untrue - and not feel like you are able to defend yourself, that sometimes kind of makes you feel helpless,' Madonna, 53, told Reuters Television in an interview.
'She didn't commit a crime, she fell in love...She says in the film, 'If you do this, if we get married, I will be the most hated woman in the world,' and she was... Obviously I can relate to her life on certain levels. I think that a lot of people who are public figures have the same experience,' Madonna said.
Madonna, who moved to England during her second marriage, to British director Guy Ritchie, said she too has made sacrifices for love.
'Whether you move to another country and you give up your roots, or when you have children - you love your children, but you have to give up say your free time, your sleep. So I think we are in the process of making those sacrifices for love on a daily basis if we're in relationships or if we have children,' she said.
'W.E' stars Abbie Cornish as a New Yorker in the 1990s who becomes infatuated with the marriage between Edward and Simpson who is played by Andrea Riseborough.
The film has been characterized by movie critics as visually stunning but lacking in focus. But Madonna won the best original movie song Golden Globe in January for 'Masterpiece' from the 'W.E' soundtrack.
From Reuters Via Yahoo! News
MDNA Cover Revealed!
Tuesday, 31 January 2012
Madonna.com have published the MDNA album cover artwork online today.
Madonna's 'Brutal' Super Bowl Rehearsals
Tuesday, 31 January 2012
Madonna is holding 'brutal' rehearsals for her Super Bowl show.
The star is to perform her new single 'Give Me all Your Luvin' live for the first time at the NFL Super Bowl XLVI Half Time Show on Sunday, and has been putting Nicki Minaj and M.I.A. - who appear on the track - through their paces in preparation.
A source told The Sun newspaper: 'Madonna has been brutal in rehearsals. Although they've been having a laugh, they've been doing up to 12 hours in a New York studio.'
'She's saying they can sleep after the Super Bowl. She's involved in every aspect of the show, including Nicki and M.I.A's outfits.'
'Nicki has been telling pals it's the most gruelling thing she has ever done and wouldn't expect anything else, calling it an 'epic learning experience'.'
Despite the gruelling rehearsals, M.I.A is looking forward to appearing on the show, one of the most watched programmes of the year in the US.
She told BBC Radio 1: 'I've never been to the Super Bowl, so it's my first time. I'm going to be performing with Madonna and Nicki Minaj. If you're gonna go to the Super Bowl, you might as well go there with America's biggest female icons.'
The star is to perform her new single 'Give Me all Your Luvin' live for the first time at the NFL Super Bowl XLVI Half Time Show on Sunday, and has been putting Nicki Minaj and M.I.A. - who appear on the track - through their paces in preparation.
A source told The Sun newspaper: 'Madonna has been brutal in rehearsals. Although they've been having a laugh, they've been doing up to 12 hours in a New York studio.'
'She's saying they can sleep after the Super Bowl. She's involved in every aspect of the show, including Nicki and M.I.A's outfits.'
'Nicki has been telling pals it's the most gruelling thing she has ever done and wouldn't expect anything else, calling it an 'epic learning experience'.'
Despite the gruelling rehearsals, M.I.A is looking forward to appearing on the show, one of the most watched programmes of the year in the US.
She told BBC Radio 1: 'I've never been to the Super Bowl, so it's my first time. I'm going to be performing with Madonna and Nicki Minaj. If you're gonna go to the Super Bowl, you might as well go there with America's biggest female icons.'
From contactmusic.com
Sneak Peek at Super Bowl Stage
Tuesday, 31 January 2012
TMZ.com have published 22 pictures taken of Madonna's Super Bowl stage over the weekend in Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, while crew were testing stage lighting for the show. The word Vogue is featured lit up on the floor panels!
Thanks to Vickster
Madonna to play Québec City?
Tuesday, 31 January 2012
A rumour that Madonna's next world tour will stop at 'Les Plaines d'Abraham' (and outside venue) in Québec City on Saturday 01 September 2012 is being reported by fr.canoe.ca and tvanouvelles.ca
Thanks to Alain, François and Pierre
Give Me All Your Luvin' Video Preview
Monday, 30 January 2012
A small teaser preview of Madonna's Give Me All Your Luvin' video has been broadcast in an advert for American Idol. A longer preview of the video will air on the show on Thursday 02 February.
Madonna says charity plans 10 schools in Malawi
Monday, 30 January 2012
Nearly six years after it was created, Madonna's Raising Malawi charity is set to break ground on the construction of schools in the impoverished country, but they will be run by the local community, not the superstar's organization.
According to organizers, work on the first school will start on March 30 in the Kasungu area, about 80 miles from the capital of Lilongwe, and all of the schools should be built by June 2013. Raising Malawi is providing $300,000 to the non-governmental organization buildOn to develop the schools. They'll serve about 1,000 boys and girls in the southern African nation.
'This remains a very big priority in my life and I am excited that with the help of buildOn we can maintain our ongoing commitment to move forward efficiently,' Madonna said in a statement provided to The Associated Press.
Raising Malawi had originally intended to build all-girls schools that the organization would run. But it faced several obstacles in its goal, including complaints from some local farmers that they had been moved off land that Raising Malawi intended to use for its mission. Raising Malawi also had difficulty getting title to the land and there were concerns about the high costs of construction.
The new plan calls for 'simple structures' that will be more practical and better serve Raising Malawi's original mission, said Trevor Neilson, who is helping to direct the project as partner of the Global Philanthropy Group. The approach will allow the program to serve twice as many children as before, Madonna said.
'I have learned a great deal over the last few years and feel so much more confident that we can reach out goals to educate children in Malawi, especially young girls, in a much more efficient and practical way,' she said. Madonna has adopted two children from Malawi.
BuildOn has already built more than 50 schools in Malawi and 427 schools worldwide.
'For schools to be successful, they need to have community ownership and leadership,' Neilson said in an interview Friday. 'Raising Malawi shouldn't be running schools in Malawi. Local communities in Malawi should be running those schools, so that's a big part of the shift.'
BuildOn has been working in Malawi for almost 20 years, said spokeswoman Carrie Pena. The organization works closely with the community, and locals even volunteer the labor to build the schools, according to Pena.
'It's absolutely a community-owned school,' she said.
Neilson praised Madonna for sticking with her plan to build schools for Malawi's children despite several setbacks for the star, who is the director of the new movie 'W.E.,' out next week, and is this year's Super Bowl performer. Madonna brought in Global Philanthropy to work with Raising Malawi more than a year ago and removed the involvement of the Kabbalah Centre. She has practiced Kabbalah, a form of Jewish mysticism.
'When the previous management team had those problems, I think a lot of people thought Madonna would give up,' Neilson said 'It would have been understandable, but instead she's going to reaching twice as many kids.'
According to organizers, work on the first school will start on March 30 in the Kasungu area, about 80 miles from the capital of Lilongwe, and all of the schools should be built by June 2013. Raising Malawi is providing $300,000 to the non-governmental organization buildOn to develop the schools. They'll serve about 1,000 boys and girls in the southern African nation.
'This remains a very big priority in my life and I am excited that with the help of buildOn we can maintain our ongoing commitment to move forward efficiently,' Madonna said in a statement provided to The Associated Press.
Raising Malawi had originally intended to build all-girls schools that the organization would run. But it faced several obstacles in its goal, including complaints from some local farmers that they had been moved off land that Raising Malawi intended to use for its mission. Raising Malawi also had difficulty getting title to the land and there were concerns about the high costs of construction.
The new plan calls for 'simple structures' that will be more practical and better serve Raising Malawi's original mission, said Trevor Neilson, who is helping to direct the project as partner of the Global Philanthropy Group. The approach will allow the program to serve twice as many children as before, Madonna said.
'I have learned a great deal over the last few years and feel so much more confident that we can reach out goals to educate children in Malawi, especially young girls, in a much more efficient and practical way,' she said. Madonna has adopted two children from Malawi.
BuildOn has already built more than 50 schools in Malawi and 427 schools worldwide.
'For schools to be successful, they need to have community ownership and leadership,' Neilson said in an interview Friday. 'Raising Malawi shouldn't be running schools in Malawi. Local communities in Malawi should be running those schools, so that's a big part of the shift.'
BuildOn has been working in Malawi for almost 20 years, said spokeswoman Carrie Pena. The organization works closely with the community, and locals even volunteer the labor to build the schools, according to Pena.
'It's absolutely a community-owned school,' she said.
Neilson praised Madonna for sticking with her plan to build schools for Malawi's children despite several setbacks for the star, who is the director of the new movie 'W.E.,' out next week, and is this year's Super Bowl performer. Madonna brought in Global Philanthropy to work with Raising Malawi more than a year ago and removed the involvement of the Kabbalah Centre. She has practiced Kabbalah, a form of Jewish mysticism.
'When the previous management team had those problems, I think a lot of people thought Madonna would give up,' Neilson said 'It would have been understandable, but instead she's going to reaching twice as many kids.'
From Associated Press Via Yahoo! News
Give Me All Your Luvin' Official Press Release
Sunday, 29 January 2012
MDNA New Studio Album For Interscope Records To Be Released March 26th
Limited Time iTunes Pre-Order of Exclusive MDNA Deluxe Edition Begins Feb. 3rd
AMERICAN IDOL To Air Exclusive Video Preview of Single on Thursday, Feb. 2nd
Madonna will be releasing her new single 'Give Me All Your Luvin'' featuring Nicki Minaj & M.I.A. on February 3rd, three days before her highly anticipated Bridgestone Super Bowl halftime performance, it was officially confirmed by Interscope Records. 'Give Me All Your Luvin'' is the first single from Madonna's upcoming album MDNA , her 12th studio album and follow up to 2008's Hard Candy which debuted at No. 1 in 37 countries. The song was written by Madonna, Martin Solveig, Nicki Minaj and M.I.A, composed by Martin Solveig and Michael Tordjman and produced by Madonna and Martin Solveig.
iTunes will offer an exclusive global pre-order of an 18 track Deluxe Edition of MDNA including one exclusive remix from Madonna's new album. The bonus remix will be available from Friday, February 3rd through Monday, February 6th only. During this time period the album will be available for $9.99 and fans will also receive the digital single 'Give Me All Your Luvin'' immediately. This single is also exclusive to iTunes during this limited time. At launch, the offer can be found at www.iTunes.com/Madonna
The video for "Give Me All Your Luvin',' directed by Megaforce, is football and cheerleader themed - inspired by her upcoming Super Bowl appearance. In an AMERICAN IDOL exclusive, Madonna will world preview the video for her new single 'Give Me All Your Luvin',' featuring Nicki Minaj and M.I.A., during IDOL Thursday, Feb. 2 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. The full video for 'Give Me All Your Luvin'' will premiere on Madonna's YouTube channel on February 3rd at 9am EST/6am PST www.youtube.com/Madonna
MDNA, recorded in New York and LA, reunites Madonna with former collaborator William Orbit ('Ray of Light') who co-wrote and co-produced several cuts on the new album. Other co producers include Martin Solveig, The Demolition Crew, Marco 'Benny' Benassi and Alessandro 'Alle' Benassi, Hardy 'Indiigo' Muanza, Michael Malih and Madonna.
The Golden Globe Award winning song 'Masterpiece' from the Madonna directed Weinstein Company film 'W.E.' which opens in February is also included on MDNA as well as on W.E. - Music From the Soundtrack which is scheduled to be released on January 31st at digital retailers on Interscope as well. The Compact Disc version of the soundtrack is scheduled to be released exclusively at Amazon.com on February 14th. The score was composed, orchestrated and produced by Abel Korzeniowski.
Madonna is scheduled to appear on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno Show on January 30th.
From Interscope Records / PRNewswire
The Wall Street Journal interviews Madonna
Sunday, 29 January 2012
The Wall Street Journal: You have a movie coming out, a fragrance, a new album and a tour - and now the Super Bowl. Was this a master plan?
Madonna: No, everything kind of converged in a bottleneck. I was always planning on making a record when I finished my film but I ended up finishing my film much later than I had expected so, because I had already scheduled time with all the producers and writers for my record, I had to multitask and work on my record at the same time I was finishing my film. And then somehow it worked out that the record was being finished right around the time the movie was coming out. Then I got talked into doing the Super Bowl.
That sounds like a lot of obligations.
I want to do everything really well. I kept saying to my manager, 'I don't want to do the Super Bowl unless I can really give it my all, and really focus all my attention on it.' And he said, 'Don't worry! There won't be any problems. You'll be able to concentrate just on the Super Bowl.' Now of course my movie is coming out during the Super Bowl so it's a little bit nerve-racking.
To read the full interview visit www.online.wsj.com/article
Thanks to COMPUABLE
UK Press: The People
Sunday, 29 January 2012
UK newspaper The People (29 January edition) featured this new picture of Madonna in New York City hiding under her bobble hat!
Catching up with Madonna
Saturday, 28 January 2012
On a fall afternoon in New York's Central Park, hundreds of curious onlookers and paparazzi watched as two comely young actresses, Abbie Cornish and Andrea Riseborough, performed a scene on a park bench. When a rock band sound check across the park disrupted the scene , the movie's director trotted off to ask the band for a reprieve.
'The entirety of Central Park followed her,' said Riseborough, 'and left Abbie and I sitting on the bench, at which point we just looked at each other like, 'Well, this obviously isn't where it's happening.''
That filmmaker has held crowds in thrall every time she's left the house for the last 30 years. Now, as the co-writer and director of the romantic drama 'W.E.,' she'll attempt to draw audiences from behind the lens. After four years in relative seclusion, Madonna is returning to the public eye: 'W.E.,' her second feature film as a director, arrives in theaters Friday; she'll perform in front of more than 100 million TV viewers at the Super Bowl halftime show on Feb. 5; and 'MDNA,' her first album of new material since 2008, is due in March.
The busy period is just the latest iteration of a career of perpetual self-reinvention, one that has earned her a reputation as a reliable provocateur and miner of fresh cultural territory. But many of the things Madonna has sung about, done and worn over three decades that have been incendiary — teenage pregnancy, interracial kissing, cone bras — have since become mainstream. To attempt to live one step ahead of the moment indefinitely must be exhausting.
But in an interview at her sprawling Sunset Boulevard home, Madonna said she's driven by something much more stimulating - an inquiring disposition.
'The entirety of Central Park followed her,' said Riseborough, 'and left Abbie and I sitting on the bench, at which point we just looked at each other like, 'Well, this obviously isn't where it's happening.''
That filmmaker has held crowds in thrall every time she's left the house for the last 30 years. Now, as the co-writer and director of the romantic drama 'W.E.,' she'll attempt to draw audiences from behind the lens. After four years in relative seclusion, Madonna is returning to the public eye: 'W.E.,' her second feature film as a director, arrives in theaters Friday; she'll perform in front of more than 100 million TV viewers at the Super Bowl halftime show on Feb. 5; and 'MDNA,' her first album of new material since 2008, is due in March.
The busy period is just the latest iteration of a career of perpetual self-reinvention, one that has earned her a reputation as a reliable provocateur and miner of fresh cultural territory. But many of the things Madonna has sung about, done and worn over three decades that have been incendiary — teenage pregnancy, interracial kissing, cone bras — have since become mainstream. To attempt to live one step ahead of the moment indefinitely must be exhausting.
But in an interview at her sprawling Sunset Boulevard home, Madonna said she's driven by something much more stimulating - an inquiring disposition.
To read the full interview with Madonna visit www.latimes.com/entertainment
M.D.N.A. Teaser Clip
Friday, 27 January 2012
Madonna's official YouTube channel posted this M.D.N.A. teaser video clip.
Madonna Calls M.D.N.A. 'Action-Packed'
Friday, 27 January 2012
Madonna has teased fans not only inadvertently with a leaked demo of her first single for 'Gimme All Your Luvin,' but also with 'Masterpiece' (which also appears on the soundtrack for her film, 'W.E.'). So far it seems that the two very different tracks show the two very different sides that the Queen of Pop is pursuing on her next studio release, M.D.N.A.
While 'Gimme' plays up Madge's playful, upbeat persona, 'Masterpiece,' as she explained to MTV News, is a different story. ''Masterpiece' is one of the few kind of more down-tempo songs, more reflective,' she told MTV News at the New York City premiere of 'W.E.'
'I think the majority of the record is more action-packed,' she teased. 'More high-energy.' It seems, then, that what fans have heard of 'Gimme' is more of what they will hear on the album.
It features production from Martin Solveig on its lead single, which gets some presumably sassy assists from two fierce female MCs, Nicki Minaj and M.I.A. Both ladies will reportedly take the stage with the pop icon to perform the track at the Super Bowl halftime show.
Madonna also worked with longtime collaborator and Ray Of Light producer William Orbit, who produced the Golden Globe-winning 'Masterpiece.' 'We've worked on stuff for so many years that we kind of finish each other's sentences. He knows my taste and what I like,' she explained at the premiere. 'Magic happens when we get into a recording studio together.'
At the Globes, Madonna recalled how 'Masterpiece' came together. '[My manager Guy Oseary] harangued me for the entire time I was filming and editing my movie to write a song,' she said during her acceptance speech for Best Original Song. 'And I said, 'Please, Guy, I'm trying to focus on being a director and I want people to pay attention to the film and I don't have time.' So then I finished the film and I started making my record and somehow magically and miraculously the song emerged, 'Masterpiece,' so thank you, Guy Oseary, for being so irritating.'
While 'Gimme' plays up Madge's playful, upbeat persona, 'Masterpiece,' as she explained to MTV News, is a different story. ''Masterpiece' is one of the few kind of more down-tempo songs, more reflective,' she told MTV News at the New York City premiere of 'W.E.'
'I think the majority of the record is more action-packed,' she teased. 'More high-energy.' It seems, then, that what fans have heard of 'Gimme' is more of what they will hear on the album.
It features production from Martin Solveig on its lead single, which gets some presumably sassy assists from two fierce female MCs, Nicki Minaj and M.I.A. Both ladies will reportedly take the stage with the pop icon to perform the track at the Super Bowl halftime show.
Madonna also worked with longtime collaborator and Ray Of Light producer William Orbit, who produced the Golden Globe-winning 'Masterpiece.' 'We've worked on stuff for so many years that we kind of finish each other's sentences. He knows my taste and what I like,' she explained at the premiere. 'Magic happens when we get into a recording studio together.'
At the Globes, Madonna recalled how 'Masterpiece' came together. '[My manager Guy Oseary] harangued me for the entire time I was filming and editing my movie to write a song,' she said during her acceptance speech for Best Original Song. 'And I said, 'Please, Guy, I'm trying to focus on being a director and I want people to pay attention to the film and I don't have time.' So then I finished the film and I started making my record and somehow magically and miraculously the song emerged, 'Masterpiece,' so thank you, Guy Oseary, for being so irritating.'
From MTV.com
UK Magazines: Hello!
Friday, 27 January 2012
UK magazine Hello! (23 January issue 1209) featured this four-page article about Madonna's W.E. and the London premiere for the film.
Madonna to perform with LMFAO at Super Bowl
Thursday, 26 January 2012
will.i.am has confirmed that LMFAO will duet with Madonna during next month's Super Bowl.
The Black Eyed Peas rapper, who signed the duo to his will.i.am Music Group label, revealed that he will attend the event to watch his act.
Talking to Capital FM, will.i.am said: 'I'm going to the Super Bowl this year to see my group LMFAO perform with Madonna.'
'Check that out, will.i.am Music Group is pretty freaking two for two. One year the Super Bowl the next year another group part of the Super Bowl in collaboration with Madonna. That's still happening.'
Madonna is still to reveal details about her set, but it is expected that Nicki Minaj and MIA will join her on stage to perform her new single 'Give Me All Your Luvin''.
It has also been rumoured that Cee Lo Green will join the iconic popstar on stage to perform alternative versions of some of her most famous hits.
The Black Eyed Peas rapper, who signed the duo to his will.i.am Music Group label, revealed that he will attend the event to watch his act.
Talking to Capital FM, will.i.am said: 'I'm going to the Super Bowl this year to see my group LMFAO perform with Madonna.'
'Check that out, will.i.am Music Group is pretty freaking two for two. One year the Super Bowl the next year another group part of the Super Bowl in collaboration with Madonna. That's still happening.'
Madonna is still to reveal details about her set, but it is expected that Nicki Minaj and MIA will join her on stage to perform her new single 'Give Me All Your Luvin''.
It has also been rumoured that Cee Lo Green will join the iconic popstar on stage to perform alternative versions of some of her most famous hits.
From Digital Spy
Taiwan Magazines: Harpers Bazaar
Thursday, 26 January 2012
Madonna and Andrea Riseborough are featured on the cover of the Taiwan edition of Harpers Bazaar in the February 2012 issue.
Thanks to Peter at madonna.idv.st
Madonna Made 'Magic' With William Orbit On M.D.N.A.
Thursday, 26 January 2012
Madonna is readying the release of her album M.D.N.A., and for it she headed back into the studio with a familiar face. She hooked up once again with producer William Orbit, who worked on a number of tracks on the album, including her Golden Globe Award-winning 'Masterpiece.'
The relationship between Madonna and Orbit has been a fruitful one. He produced most of the songs on 1998's Ray of Light, including 'Ray of Light,' 'Nothing Really Matters,' 'Frozen' and 'The Power of Good-bye.' The album later won several Grammy Awards and VMAs.
Their work together didn't end there. One year later, they produced Madge's 'Austin Powers' soundtrack song, 'Beautiful Stranger,' which nabbed a Grammy Award in 2000. In the years since, she worked with Orbit on several unreleased tracks.
So, when it came to their latest collaboration, words weren't needed. 'With William, I didn't really have a discussion,' she told MTV News at the New York premiere of 'W.E.' 'We've worked on stuff for so many years that we kind of finish each other's sentences. He knows my taste and what I like.'
With 'Masterpiece' serving as a tease, the singer later added, 'Magic happens when we get into a recording studio together.'
As fans prep for the release of her studio album, they can look forward to her halftime Super Bowl performance and her video for the Martin Solveig-produced 'Gimme All Your Luvin' (which also features Nicki Minaj and M.I.A.).
The relationship between Madonna and Orbit has been a fruitful one. He produced most of the songs on 1998's Ray of Light, including 'Ray of Light,' 'Nothing Really Matters,' 'Frozen' and 'The Power of Good-bye.' The album later won several Grammy Awards and VMAs.
Their work together didn't end there. One year later, they produced Madge's 'Austin Powers' soundtrack song, 'Beautiful Stranger,' which nabbed a Grammy Award in 2000. In the years since, she worked with Orbit on several unreleased tracks.
So, when it came to their latest collaboration, words weren't needed. 'With William, I didn't really have a discussion,' she told MTV News at the New York premiere of 'W.E.' 'We've worked on stuff for so many years that we kind of finish each other's sentences. He knows my taste and what I like.'
With 'Masterpiece' serving as a tease, the singer later added, 'Magic happens when we get into a recording studio together.'
As fans prep for the release of her studio album, they can look forward to her halftime Super Bowl performance and her video for the Martin Solveig-produced 'Gimme All Your Luvin' (which also features Nicki Minaj and M.I.A.).
From MTV.com
US TV: Anderson Interview
Thursday, 26 January 2012
Let the countdown begin! Anderson's hour-long exclusive interview with Madonna airs Thursday 02 February.
One revealing hour...her secrets...her past...her plans for her Super Bowl performance...and so much more!
One revealing hour...her secrets...her past...her plans for her Super Bowl performance...and so much more!
Liz Smith: The Madonna Weeps
Thursday, 26 January 2012
'I’m really not the sentimental type,' said Madonna, before bursting into tears, while introducing her directorial movie effort, 'W.E.'
The star, who was encased in a tight, gorgeous black lace number that reduced her to taking tiny, timorous steps, held up pretty well during her remarks at the Ziegfeld Theater. She thanked everybody connected to the movie: her actors who were present - Andrea Riseborough, James D’Arcy, Oscar Isaac and David Harbour. (Mr. Harbour plays the rather doltish Ernest Simpson in the film, but in real life he is quite sexy.)
Kudos also went to her producer Harvey Weinstein, known forevermore as 'the Punisher,' thanks to M...to the editors, costume designers, cameraman. She even thanked her press rep of thirty years, Liz Rosenberg ('Think about that. I mean think about it! Imagine what she’s seen and had to listen to and put up with?!')
Madonna appeared to be getting a bit emotional. She said, 'I’ve been working my ass off for the Super Bowl. And everybody who knows me, knows when I’m tired, I cry.' Then, at the end, she dedicated the film to her mother, who died when Madonna was six, 'This movie is the story of a woman’s journey...' she began and without warning, just broke down, much to the shock of the packed house.
In my almost thirty years of covering Madonna, I have seen her only once lose her controlled façade. Several years back, the star appeared with Oprah, defending her choice to adopt her son David. This was in the face of tremendous criticism and speculation that it was a publicity stunt, a 'designer baby.' Madonna appeared red-eyed, agitated and genuinely hurt, but did not weep.
However, just hours later I was told that the instant the cameras went off, Madonna 'completely lost it.'
Stars really are people, with real emotions. Madonna’s tears at her premiere were the most dramatic and memorable aspect of the night.
The star, who was encased in a tight, gorgeous black lace number that reduced her to taking tiny, timorous steps, held up pretty well during her remarks at the Ziegfeld Theater. She thanked everybody connected to the movie: her actors who were present - Andrea Riseborough, James D’Arcy, Oscar Isaac and David Harbour. (Mr. Harbour plays the rather doltish Ernest Simpson in the film, but in real life he is quite sexy.)
Kudos also went to her producer Harvey Weinstein, known forevermore as 'the Punisher,' thanks to M...to the editors, costume designers, cameraman. She even thanked her press rep of thirty years, Liz Rosenberg ('Think about that. I mean think about it! Imagine what she’s seen and had to listen to and put up with?!')
Madonna appeared to be getting a bit emotional. She said, 'I’ve been working my ass off for the Super Bowl. And everybody who knows me, knows when I’m tired, I cry.' Then, at the end, she dedicated the film to her mother, who died when Madonna was six, 'This movie is the story of a woman’s journey...' she began and without warning, just broke down, much to the shock of the packed house.
In my almost thirty years of covering Madonna, I have seen her only once lose her controlled façade. Several years back, the star appeared with Oprah, defending her choice to adopt her son David. This was in the face of tremendous criticism and speculation that it was a publicity stunt, a 'designer baby.' Madonna appeared red-eyed, agitated and genuinely hurt, but did not weep.
However, just hours later I was told that the instant the cameras went off, Madonna 'completely lost it.'
Stars really are people, with real emotions. Madonna’s tears at her premiere were the most dramatic and memorable aspect of the night.
Madonna had received a standing ovation when she slowly walked from the back of the theater to the stage (well, she really couldn’t walk swiftly, because of that dress.) and the movie was loudly applauded after it was over.
Then, Diane von Furstenberg, Martha Stewart, Calvin Klein, Lou Reed, Julia Stiles, Ingrid Sischy, Zac Posen, Sally Morrison, Susan Rosen, Jacob Bernstein, Lucy Lawless, Rachel Roy, Ivanka Trump, Gayle King and Liz Rosenberg’s incredible staff of vixens - Karen Moss, Nadia Ali, Alexandra Akins - converged at Top of the Standard on West 13th Street for the after party. This was sponsored by The Cinema Society and the diamond company, Forevermark.
Madonna herself appeared, with her boyfriend, dancer Brahim Zaibat, and was instantly ensconced in one of the little enclaves that dot the room. It is a glam spot, but has rising and falling sections, treacherous steps almost certain to produce vertigo, especially the bathrooms (sheets of transparent glass, looking down 20 stories to the pavement.) Real food was almost nonexistent. The 'sliders' disappeared within seconds, though the good-looking staff kept pressing little desserts on the crowd, most of whom were begging for meat.
Madonna had a fine time, but was still struggling to move. It is unlikely she ate a thing. One tiny brownie would have split a seam. She revealed that it was she who insisted on premiering the film at the Ziegfeld. In fact, she told 'The Punisher' - 'no Ziegfeld, no premiere!' Why? Because the great old movie palace is one of the last in the city, perhaps the country, to use a movie projector.'
'It’s film!' she said. Everything else is a digital process now, and I wanted people at the premiere at least to see it with the warmth and depth that only film can transmit. That’s how I envisioned it in the first place.'
About an hour later, Madonna, and most of the crowd, moved to The Standard’s other big room, where everybody danced like mad, under a glittering disco ball. This included the star of the night herself. She had changed into jeans and a flimsy top. She sat for a while watching the dancers from her coming tour perform, but finally got up and 'got down,' with the boyfriend. From a slight distance, in the smoky room, there seemed to be no difference in their age. Even under the harsh lights at the theater, she looked remarkably fresh - younger, with her haired styled in a shorter 1940’s style.
It will be up to the public to have the final say on 'W.E.' But the premiere was a hit, that’s for sure.
To read more from Liz Smith visit www.wowowow.com/liz-smith
Madonna's interview for Ukrainian TV
Thursday, 26 January 2012
On the day W.E. premiered in New York City, Madonna taped an exclusive interview for Ukrainian TV. In the video snippet below, the journalist, Kate Osadcha, presents Madonna with a Ukrainian shawl. Madonna accepted it as opposed to hydrangeas, which were also presented to her by journalist from the same channel.
'I flew across the globe to be in this chair. And I have a gift for you from Ukraine,' said Kate Osadcha, handing a present to the singer.
'Wow!' said a surprised Madonna.
'This is a real Ukrainian shawl. You won't find a such one In New York. It can be worn either on head or shoulders,' Kate Osadcha added.
Kate Osadcha shared some details of the meeting Madonna the other day:
'Madonna, like all stars, is very professional. She was very friendly, and while the cameras and sound were setting up, we were able to talk behind the scenes. She asked how her good friend Eugene Gutz is known in Ukraine [he performed with Madonna on Live Earth and played a role in her film 'Filth and Wisdom']. In fact, he had a concert in Kiev at this time. And I told Madonna that his concerts had been sold out. She was very glad about that.
At the moment when I was introduced by her assistant, he said that I was a journalist from Russia, I've corrected him and said I was from Ukraine, and Madonna said, 'Don't get confused, it's been a long time that they have been two different states.'
Russian link: www.livestory.com.ua / Ukrainian link: tsn.ua/glamur
The full interview with Madonna is scheduled to be broadcast on Sunday 29 January on '1+1' Channel at 22:50 European East Time.
Thanks to Alexander
Madonna Teases 'Pom Poms' For Super Bowl, New Video
Wednesday, 25 January 2012
Madonna is nearing both the release of her 'Give Me All Your Luvin' music video, as well as her highly anticipated Super Bowl halftime performance. And it seems that these two milestones will have a few things in common.
First off, there's a good chance Nicki Minaj and M.I.A. will not only play parts in the video for the first single off Madge's M.D.N.A. release, dropping later this year, but as heavily speculated, they might take the stage with the Queen of Pop during the February 5 halftime show.
In true Madonna fashion, when MTV News caught up with her at the New York premiere of her film, 'W.E.,' she played it cool regarding rumors about the performance. Asked whether the ladies will join her at the Super Bowl, she coyly responded, 'I am not saying 'Yes,' and I am not saying 'No.'' The only tease she wanted to give was, 'Pom poms. That's all I can tell you.'
When Madonna takes the halftime stage next month, her performance will be 'imagined' by Cirque du Soleil and Madonna's longtime choreographer and creative director Jamie King. According to reports, the set list for the show will include 'Luvin' as well as the Madonna classics 'Ray of Light,' 'Vogue' and 'Music.'
Of course, fans won't find the theme a far stretch for the Michigan native, who was a cheerleader back in her high school days. 'I have eight minutes to set up my stage, 12 minutes to put on the greatest show on earth, and I have seven minutes to take it down so that football field is clean for the second half of the game,' she told ABC News about the performance. 'That's the challenge. How do you do that? I actually wanted to have 100 drummers come from the ceiling, a drumline from the ceiling.'
So, what else will the Super Bowl show and her Megaforce-directed clip have in common? Madge simply told us, laughing, 'Pom poms.'
First off, there's a good chance Nicki Minaj and M.I.A. will not only play parts in the video for the first single off Madge's M.D.N.A. release, dropping later this year, but as heavily speculated, they might take the stage with the Queen of Pop during the February 5 halftime show.
In true Madonna fashion, when MTV News caught up with her at the New York premiere of her film, 'W.E.,' she played it cool regarding rumors about the performance. Asked whether the ladies will join her at the Super Bowl, she coyly responded, 'I am not saying 'Yes,' and I am not saying 'No.'' The only tease she wanted to give was, 'Pom poms. That's all I can tell you.'
When Madonna takes the halftime stage next month, her performance will be 'imagined' by Cirque du Soleil and Madonna's longtime choreographer and creative director Jamie King. According to reports, the set list for the show will include 'Luvin' as well as the Madonna classics 'Ray of Light,' 'Vogue' and 'Music.'
Of course, fans won't find the theme a far stretch for the Michigan native, who was a cheerleader back in her high school days. 'I have eight minutes to set up my stage, 12 minutes to put on the greatest show on earth, and I have seven minutes to take it down so that football field is clean for the second half of the game,' she told ABC News about the performance. 'That's the challenge. How do you do that? I actually wanted to have 100 drummers come from the ceiling, a drumline from the ceiling.'
So, what else will the Super Bowl show and her Megaforce-directed clip have in common? Madge simply told us, laughing, 'Pom poms.'
From MTV.com
Madonna Cries Talking About Her Mother at Premiere
Wednesday, 25 January 2012
Facing Hollywood's biggest night of the year and the sports world's biggest game, Madonna has a big to-do list. The movie she directed, W.E., just received an Oscar nod for costume design (the Academy Awards are Feb. 26), and she'll bring her star power to the football field with a halftime performance at the New England Patriots vs. New York Giants Super Bowl on Feb. 5.
'Anybody that knows me knows that when I'm tired, I cry,' she warned the W.E. audience at New York City's Ziegfeld Theatre for Monday's Forevermark-sponsored Cinema Society premiere. The movie's a modern twist on the love story between Wallis Simpson and Edward VIII.
'If I cry, please, just don't hold it against me. I'm really not a sentimental kind of a person.'
So she must be exhausted: While talking about her mother, the veteran entertainer, 53, who picked up a Golden Globe for best original song earlier this month, became emotional.
'Finally, I would like to thank my mother,' she said, sighing, and then pausing at length as she choked back tears. 'Because, really, this story is the story of a female's, the journey of a female, soul. And my mother gave me life.'
As for the Super Bowl appearance, she'll perform 'some oldies, but goodies' along with her new single, 'Give Me All Your Luvin' at the halftime show, she said.
'I'm really tired from working my a–– off for the Super Bowl,' said Madonna, sporting a form-fitting Marchesa dress. And while she's 'extremely nervous' about the highly visible gig, she added, 'My life seems to be made up of 'I never imagined I'd be here' moments.'
'Anybody that knows me knows that when I'm tired, I cry,' she warned the W.E. audience at New York City's Ziegfeld Theatre for Monday's Forevermark-sponsored Cinema Society premiere. The movie's a modern twist on the love story between Wallis Simpson and Edward VIII.
'If I cry, please, just don't hold it against me. I'm really not a sentimental kind of a person.'
So she must be exhausted: While talking about her mother, the veteran entertainer, 53, who picked up a Golden Globe for best original song earlier this month, became emotional.
'Finally, I would like to thank my mother,' she said, sighing, and then pausing at length as she choked back tears. 'Because, really, this story is the story of a female's, the journey of a female, soul. And my mother gave me life.'
As for the Super Bowl appearance, she'll perform 'some oldies, but goodies' along with her new single, 'Give Me All Your Luvin' at the halftime show, she said.
'I'm really tired from working my a–– off for the Super Bowl,' said Madonna, sporting a form-fitting Marchesa dress. And while she's 'extremely nervous' about the highly visible gig, she added, 'My life seems to be made up of 'I never imagined I'd be here' moments.'
From People.com - thanks to Alex
UK Magazines: Look
Wednesday, 25 January 2012
UK magazine Look (23 January issue) featured Madonna and Kate Middleton as This Week's Fashion Moment as they were both wearing lace to London film premieres.
Madonna has real sense of an incredible aesthetic, says stylist
Wednesday, 25 January 2012
Madonna has a 'real sense of an incredible aesthetic', her stylist has suggested.
Arianne Phillips told Grazia that only fashion designer-turned-filmmaker Tom Ford shared the sensibility of the W.E. director.
'She and I have this creative language together because I've been working with her for the past 14 years,' Phillips said.
'I loved having her on the other side of the camera and being able to collaborate with her in that way. It wasn't that different because she's an idea person and she's always directed me anyway, in terms of everything we've done from album covers to photoshoots to the play in the West End.'
'We've worked in so many different disciplines and we have a real fluency in language so I feel like she's been directing me for years!'
She added: 'The only difference is that it's more objective with her behind the camera, she has a real sense of an incredible aesthetic. The only other experience I've had like this was working with Tom Ford on A Single Man.'
'Most directors don't know how to discuss the nuances of the fabric, colour and the silhouette, and the beauty of working with Tom and working with Madonna was the vernacular.'
Arianne Phillips told Grazia that only fashion designer-turned-filmmaker Tom Ford shared the sensibility of the W.E. director.
'She and I have this creative language together because I've been working with her for the past 14 years,' Phillips said.
'I loved having her on the other side of the camera and being able to collaborate with her in that way. It wasn't that different because she's an idea person and she's always directed me anyway, in terms of everything we've done from album covers to photoshoots to the play in the West End.'
'We've worked in so many different disciplines and we have a real fluency in language so I feel like she's been directing me for years!'
She added: 'The only difference is that it's more objective with her behind the camera, she has a real sense of an incredible aesthetic. The only other experience I've had like this was working with Tom Ford on A Single Man.'
'Most directors don't know how to discuss the nuances of the fabric, colour and the silhouette, and the beauty of working with Tom and working with Madonna was the vernacular.'
From Digital Spy
Arianne Phillips Oscar nominated for W.E. costume design
Tuesday, 24 January 2012
The nominations for the 84th Academy Awards were announced this morning in Los Angeles. Arianne Phillips has received a nomination for Costume Design in W.E. - the winner will be announced on Sunday 26 February.
Costume Design
'Anonymous' Lisy Christl
'The Artist' Mark Bridges
'Hugo' Sandy Powell
'Jane Eyre' Michael O'Connor
'W.E.' Arianne Phillips
Press Pictures: W.E. New York City Premiere
Tuesday, 24 January 2012
Last night Madonna attended the New York City premiere of W.E. hosted by the Weinstein Company and The Cinema Society at the Ziegfield Theater.
Pictures from Reuters Via Yahoo! News
Madonna: Royals need star quality
Tuesday, 24 January 2012
Madonna has said it is a shame the royal family aren't revered like movie stars any more.
The 53-year-old singer and director - whose directorial debut W.E. tells the story of King Edward VIII's love affair with American divorcee Wallis Simpson - told Grazia magazine she thinks royality such as Prince William and Kate Middleton should be treated like A-listers, not ambassadors for the country.
Madonna said: 'I think the royal family of the '30s and '40s were the stars of their day.'
'Edward VIII was really like a movie star. People were in love with him. Now, with the royals, their role in society seems to be reduced to being ambassadors.'
'I think it's a shame. I like the old-fashioned way.'
But royal fan Madonna - who recently revealed she would like her next royal film to document the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's first 10 years of marriage - admitted she doesn't move in the same circles as the Windsors.
She said: 'I don't get invited to any of their parties!'
The 53-year-old singer and director - whose directorial debut W.E. tells the story of King Edward VIII's love affair with American divorcee Wallis Simpson - told Grazia magazine she thinks royality such as Prince William and Kate Middleton should be treated like A-listers, not ambassadors for the country.
Madonna said: 'I think the royal family of the '30s and '40s were the stars of their day.'
'Edward VIII was really like a movie star. People were in love with him. Now, with the royals, their role in society seems to be reduced to being ambassadors.'
'I think it's a shame. I like the old-fashioned way.'
But royal fan Madonna - who recently revealed she would like her next royal film to document the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's first 10 years of marriage - admitted she doesn't move in the same circles as the Windsors.
She said: 'I don't get invited to any of their parties!'
From Press Association Via Yahoo! News
W.E. soundtrack available for pre-order
Monday, 23 January 2012
The soundtrack for W.E. (which includes Madonna's Golden Globe winning Masterpiece) is available to pre-order at www.amazon.co.uk
The album is due for release in the UK on Monday 06 February.
Thanks to Ben
Press Release: W.E. Music From The Motion Picture
Monday, 23 January 2012
The Golden Globe nominated music from Madonna's upcoming film W.E. composed, orchestrated and produced by Abel Korzeniowski, which also includes Madonna's Golden Globe award winning song 'Masterpiece', is scheduled to be released digitally on Interscope Records on January 31st, it was announced today. W.E. which was directed, co-written and produced by Madonna and distributed by The Weinstein Company is scheduled to be released in February.
The score was recorded in April 2011 at the famed Abbey Road Studios in London with a 60-piece orchestra conducted by Terry Davies including piano, violin and viola solos.
The Polish born Los Angeles based Korzeniowski previously wrote the original score for the Tom Ford film A Single Man for which he also received a Golden Globe nomination.
'The prevailing sense of obsession was what inspired me in W.E. - the irrational compulsion to sacrifice everything and anything for love - a love that could easily be just an illusion. In my music, I wanted to reflect those powerful and conflicting emotions through a web of melodic themes, which relentlessly repeat and constantly swing between despair and sorrow, and hope and joy,' commented Korzeniowski.
'W.E.' tells the story of American divorcee Wallis Simpson (Andrea Riseborough) and England's King Edward (James D'Arcy) who abdicated his thrown to be with the woman he loved. It is considered one of the greatest love stories of the 20th century. The story is told through the eyes of a modern day New Yorker Wally Winthrop (Abby Cornish). Composer Korzeniowski masterfully and seamlessly bridged the two unique worlds of Europe in the 30's and 40's and the contemporary Manhattan environment of a woman lost in her dreams of the perfect love.
In addition to Korzeniowski's magnificent score, the soundtrack includes the original song 'Masterpiece' composed by Madonna, Julie Frost and Jimmy Harry and sung by Madonna which is played during the end credits of the film. It will also be included on Madonna's upcoming solo album for Interscope, MDNA, which is scheduled for release this spring.
The score was recorded in April 2011 at the famed Abbey Road Studios in London with a 60-piece orchestra conducted by Terry Davies including piano, violin and viola solos.
The Polish born Los Angeles based Korzeniowski previously wrote the original score for the Tom Ford film A Single Man for which he also received a Golden Globe nomination.
'The prevailing sense of obsession was what inspired me in W.E. - the irrational compulsion to sacrifice everything and anything for love - a love that could easily be just an illusion. In my music, I wanted to reflect those powerful and conflicting emotions through a web of melodic themes, which relentlessly repeat and constantly swing between despair and sorrow, and hope and joy,' commented Korzeniowski.
'W.E.' tells the story of American divorcee Wallis Simpson (Andrea Riseborough) and England's King Edward (James D'Arcy) who abdicated his thrown to be with the woman he loved. It is considered one of the greatest love stories of the 20th century. The story is told through the eyes of a modern day New Yorker Wally Winthrop (Abby Cornish). Composer Korzeniowski masterfully and seamlessly bridged the two unique worlds of Europe in the 30's and 40's and the contemporary Manhattan environment of a woman lost in her dreams of the perfect love.
In addition to Korzeniowski's magnificent score, the soundtrack includes the original song 'Masterpiece' composed by Madonna, Julie Frost and Jimmy Harry and sung by Madonna which is played during the end credits of the film. It will also be included on Madonna's upcoming solo album for Interscope, MDNA, which is scheduled for release this spring.
German Magazines: Grazia and In Touch
Monday, 23 January 2012
The current editions of German magazines Grazia and In Touch both feature photo stories about Madonna stepping on Jessica Biel's dress at the Golden Globe awards.
Thanks to Kirsten
Madonna admits she is a 'Details Freak'
Monday, 23 January 2012
Madonna is a 'details freak'.
The 52-year-old singer always likes to be in control and thinks it is important to consider every aspect of a project, no matter how small.
Speaking about her new movie 'W.E.', which she directed, produced and wrote, she said: 'I wouldn't go so far as to say I'm a control freak, but I am a detail freak. I chose the costumes, the locations, the lamps, the tables, the carpets, the drapes - everything.'
'I also liked to put the finishing touches on the actors before they did their scenes- you know, with their hair or clothes.'
'Putting on a bracelet or something on to Andrea [Riseborough]'s wrist gave me an emotional connection before directing her. Some of the jewellery we used was actually Wallis Simpson's.'
Madonna - who has been married twice before and is currently dating dancer Brahim Zaibat - believes she is in control of her own 'destiny', a message she reflects in the movie.
She explained: 'It's about what Wallis says in the movie - 'Get a life'. Happiness lies in our own hands and we are in charge of our own destiny.'
The 52-year-old singer always likes to be in control and thinks it is important to consider every aspect of a project, no matter how small.
Speaking about her new movie 'W.E.', which she directed, produced and wrote, she said: 'I wouldn't go so far as to say I'm a control freak, but I am a detail freak. I chose the costumes, the locations, the lamps, the tables, the carpets, the drapes - everything.'
'I also liked to put the finishing touches on the actors before they did their scenes- you know, with their hair or clothes.'
'Putting on a bracelet or something on to Andrea [Riseborough]'s wrist gave me an emotional connection before directing her. Some of the jewellery we used was actually Wallis Simpson's.'
Madonna - who has been married twice before and is currently dating dancer Brahim Zaibat - believes she is in control of her own 'destiny', a message she reflects in the movie.
She explained: 'It's about what Wallis says in the movie - 'Get a life'. Happiness lies in our own hands and we are in charge of our own destiny.'
From contactmusic.com
UK Press: Sunday Mirror
Monday, 23 January 2012
UK newspaper the Sunday Mirror published this reprise of the Harpers Bazaar interview and photoshoot yesterday - click on the image to enlarge.
UK Press: The People
Sunday, 22 January 2012
UK newspaper The People published this front-page news about a series of concerts to be held in London during the Olympics. Madonna is of course one of the producers top 'wants' as a headliner the shows! Click on the articles to enlarge.
UK release date for MDNA
Sunday, 22 January 2012
UK music retailer HMV.com are showing on their website that Madonna's MDNA is due for release on Monday 02 April 2012.
Thanks to Darren
UK Magazines: Grazia
Sunday, 22 January 2012
The 23 January issue of UK magazine Grazia featured this four-page article about Madonna and W.E. - and also a small interview with Arianne Phillips. The magazine also includes a promotional page about the film.
UK TV: Superbowl Broadcast Details
Sunday, 22 January 2012
Fans in the UK will be able to catch Madonna's Superbowl half-time performance on the BBC next month.
Sunday 5 February
SUPER BOWL XLVI
2255-0400, BBC ONE/BBC RED BUTTON/BBC RADIO 5 LIVE
Mark Chapman presents coverage of Super Bowl XLVI, which this year comes from Indianapolis for the first time in its history.
Thanks to Ben
German Magazines: Bunte and In
Sunday, 22 January 2012
The latest issues of German magazines Bunte and In both feature pictures of Madonna (and Guy Oseary) at the Golden Globes - click on the images to enlarge.
Thanks to Kirsten
US TV: The Tonight Show with Jay Leno
Saturday, 21 January 2012
Jay Leno announced last night on his show that Madonna will be a guest on the show on Monday 30 January.
Thanks to Michael
UK Magazines: Glamour
Saturday, 21 January 2012
The current edition of UK magazine Glamour (February 2012 issue) features a three-page article where Madonna talks about the production of and her inspirations during the making of W.E. - click on the article to enlarge.
W.E. stars: 'Madonna's passion was infectious'
Saturday, 21 January 2012
W.E. stars Andrea Riseborough and James D'Arcy reflect on their roles as Edward and Mrs Simpson - and being directed by 'the most famous woman on the planet'.
W.E. is the story of the affair between King Edward VIII and American divorcee Wallis Simpson - the couple who caused a constitutional crisis in the 1930s.
But it is also the story of Madonna - pop star turned film director.
The singer has spent years developing the idea for W.E. - including two years co-writing the script about the woman for whom a king gave up his throne.
So is it fair to call W.E. a passion project for Madonna?
'And for all of us!' exclaims Andrea Riseborough, when we meet in London's Soho to discuss Madonna's second directorial outing.
'She was so passionate about the story from the first moment I met her - it was the thing that was so infectious.'
Madonna had sent Riseborough the W.E. script after seeing her Bafta-nominated performance as Margaret Thatcher in BBC drama The Long Walk to Finchley.
'I went to meet her the she was so ignited with the story. From that day on we were together every day for seven months,' says Riseborough.
Riseborough's co-star James D'Arcy first met Madonna in rather different circumstances.
'It was in cyberspace!' he laughs.
'We met on Skype and the picture froze but the sound kept coming through. So she was talking to me about the film and I was thinking: 'Do I say something?' and 'Is my picture frozen at her end in a deeply unflattering look?'
'In the end I kept listening - but I was blown away by how fantastically well-prepared she was.'
Madonna's rigorous attention to period detail is evident on screen. How much research did her lead actors undertake?
'She gave me a lot of books,' recalls D'Arcy. 'If a sentence hadn't been underlined it had been highlighted, and if it hadn't been highlighted there was a post-it note referring to a page in another book.'
Riseborough also immersed herself in books, archive footage and photos.
'Still images I find very useful, it's a moment in time. I found shots of her looking directly into the camera very revealing. That's when I really began to feel like I had an emotional relationship with her.'
'The link had been so tenuous before. She'd been a still image but a monochrome, enigmatic footnote.'
How much did Riseborough know about Wallis Simpson before she took the role?
'I have one memory, when I was very young, of people bristling in a room when her name was mentioned,' she says.
And what did D'Arcy make of Madonna - the director?
'I want to work with people who are passionate about their craft and have a strong vision which they can communicate - and she ticked all of those boxes; plus it was good fun. That's not a given on any film set.'
The 36-year-old actor admits there was no time to be star-struck.
'She doesn't allow you to feel that way for more than 10 seconds. She's not big on small talk, so it's straight down to business.'
'But when we went to the Venice Film Festival I was reminded that she was the most famous woman on the planet, and has been for three decades.'
Says D'Arcy: 'As an actor you want to work with interesting people on interesting projects, and you want to be challenged. What happens afterwards is neither here nor there.'
'Obviously it's delightful if people like what you're doing, but I don't read any of reviews. I don't care about the awards, it isn't part of the reason why I do it. I don't dismiss them but neither do I live for them.'
W.E. is the story of the affair between King Edward VIII and American divorcee Wallis Simpson - the couple who caused a constitutional crisis in the 1930s.
But it is also the story of Madonna - pop star turned film director.
The singer has spent years developing the idea for W.E. - including two years co-writing the script about the woman for whom a king gave up his throne.
So is it fair to call W.E. a passion project for Madonna?
'And for all of us!' exclaims Andrea Riseborough, when we meet in London's Soho to discuss Madonna's second directorial outing.
'She was so passionate about the story from the first moment I met her - it was the thing that was so infectious.'
Madonna had sent Riseborough the W.E. script after seeing her Bafta-nominated performance as Margaret Thatcher in BBC drama The Long Walk to Finchley.
'I went to meet her the she was so ignited with the story. From that day on we were together every day for seven months,' says Riseborough.
Riseborough's co-star James D'Arcy first met Madonna in rather different circumstances.
'It was in cyberspace!' he laughs.
'We met on Skype and the picture froze but the sound kept coming through. So she was talking to me about the film and I was thinking: 'Do I say something?' and 'Is my picture frozen at her end in a deeply unflattering look?'
'In the end I kept listening - but I was blown away by how fantastically well-prepared she was.'
Madonna's rigorous attention to period detail is evident on screen. How much research did her lead actors undertake?
'She gave me a lot of books,' recalls D'Arcy. 'If a sentence hadn't been underlined it had been highlighted, and if it hadn't been highlighted there was a post-it note referring to a page in another book.'
Riseborough also immersed herself in books, archive footage and photos.
'Still images I find very useful, it's a moment in time. I found shots of her looking directly into the camera very revealing. That's when I really began to feel like I had an emotional relationship with her.'
'The link had been so tenuous before. She'd been a still image but a monochrome, enigmatic footnote.'
How much did Riseborough know about Wallis Simpson before she took the role?
'I have one memory, when I was very young, of people bristling in a room when her name was mentioned,' she says.
And what did D'Arcy make of Madonna - the director?
'I want to work with people who are passionate about their craft and have a strong vision which they can communicate - and she ticked all of those boxes; plus it was good fun. That's not a given on any film set.'
The 36-year-old actor admits there was no time to be star-struck.
'She doesn't allow you to feel that way for more than 10 seconds. She's not big on small talk, so it's straight down to business.'
'But when we went to the Venice Film Festival I was reminded that she was the most famous woman on the planet, and has been for three decades.'
Says D'Arcy: 'As an actor you want to work with interesting people on interesting projects, and you want to be challenged. What happens afterwards is neither here nor there.'
'Obviously it's delightful if people like what you're doing, but I don't read any of reviews. I don't care about the awards, it isn't part of the reason why I do it. I don't dismiss them but neither do I live for them.'
From BBC News
US Magazines: Rolling Stone
Saturday, 21 January 2012
This full page advert for Madonna's Superbowl appearance is featured in the current edition of US magazine Rolling Stone
Thanks to Vickster
W.E. in UK cinemas today!
Friday, 20 January 2012
The wait is finally over as Madonna’s W.E. hits UK cinemas TODAY! To find your nearest cinema showing the film see here www.facebook.com/movie and lets ensure that true fans (the royal W.E.) show our support for Madonna by descending on cinemas nationwide this weekend.
Let madonnalicious know what you think of the film - hit the COMMENTS button below or visit our facebook fanpage at www.facebook.com/pages/Madonnalicious
Madonna Delivers Big Ratings!
Friday, 20 January 2012
According to TV Rating Monitoring sources Madonna still got it! Her interview with Cynthia McFadden broadcasted on ABC’s Nightline had 3.3/8 rating. In other words, the best one of the night. Other shows on at that time:
Late Show with David Letterman (2.9/7)
The Tonight Show with Jay Leno (2.9/7)
Jimmy Kimmel Live (1.6/5)
Late Show with David Letterman (2.9/7)
The Tonight Show with Jay Leno (2.9/7)
Jimmy Kimmel Live (1.6/5)
Her appearance on The Graham Norton Show also did extremely well with an extra million viewers on BBC1.
An impressive 4.2 million people tuned in to watch the superstar talk about her new film W.E. on Friday night. The show usually bags just over 3 million viewers.
Graham Norton couldn’t stop raving about the singer afterwards. He said...'I’m still high on Madonna love.'
Thanks to Micheal
UK Magazines: Total Film
Friday, 20 January 2012
UK film magazine Total Film (February 2012 issue) features this small interview with Madonna about W.E. - click on the image to enlarge.
Thanks to Mark
Madonna criticism blown out of proportion, says David Furnish
Friday, 20 January 2012
David Furnish has said that comments he made about Madonna's Golden Globe victory have been 'blown way out of proportion'.
Furnish spoke out following Madonna's victory in the 'Best Original Song' category, which saw her track 'Masterpiece' triumph over 'Hello Hello' by his husband Sir Elton John.
The 49-year-old, who also described the W.E. director as 'embarrassing' and 'desperate', went on to advise Madonna to 'stick to what she's good at' following the release of her new movie.
However, Furnish has now responded to the widespread reaction to his comments, insisting that his criticism was born out of 'passion' for John's nominated song.
'Wow! What a tempest in a teapot. My comments regarding The Golden Globes have been blown way out of proportion,' he wrote on his Facebook page. 'My passion for our film Gnomeo & Juliet and belief in Elton's song really got my emotional juices going.'
He added: 'But I must say for the record that I do believe Madonna is a great artist, and that Elton and I wish her all the best for next week's premiere of the film W.E.'
Furnish spoke out following Madonna's victory in the 'Best Original Song' category, which saw her track 'Masterpiece' triumph over 'Hello Hello' by his husband Sir Elton John.
The 49-year-old, who also described the W.E. director as 'embarrassing' and 'desperate', went on to advise Madonna to 'stick to what she's good at' following the release of her new movie.
However, Furnish has now responded to the widespread reaction to his comments, insisting that his criticism was born out of 'passion' for John's nominated song.
'Wow! What a tempest in a teapot. My comments regarding The Golden Globes have been blown way out of proportion,' he wrote on his Facebook page. 'My passion for our film Gnomeo & Juliet and belief in Elton's song really got my emotional juices going.'
He added: 'But I must say for the record that I do believe Madonna is a great artist, and that Elton and I wish her all the best for next week's premiere of the film W.E.'
From Digital Spy
Liz Smith on Lady Gaga, Reductive and Elton John
Friday, 20 January 2012
'IT’S REDUCTIVE.'
Those two words, uttered by Madonna, in response to ABC-TV’s Cynthia McFadden’s question about a Lady Gaga song, has 'gone viral,' as they say.
Even better, when McFadden, who certainly knows what the word means, asked Madonna to define it, M coyly said, 'Look it up!'
Apparently, a lot of people have. Now, I keep hearing the word, generally accompanied with a laugh and a reference to the pop icon. Madonna has taught us much over the years, now she’s revived a word rarely used. (Well, I’ve always said if Madonna hadn’t gone into music, she would have stayed in Michigan and become Miss Ciccone, the stern English teacher.)
It was this benign answer about Gaga that became part of the Elton John/ David Furnish’s attack on Madonna, after she won a Golden Globe for best original song on Sunday night. The song is titled 'Masterpiece' from her coming film, 'W.E.' (Elton’s effort was 'Hello, Hello' from the flop animated movie 'Gnomeo and Juliet.') Aside from ripping Madonna’s song, the pair declared - on Twitter and Facebook - that Madonna’s 'attack' on Gaga 'shows how desperate she is.'
Goodness, I didn’t get that at all. Madonna has no inclination to trash Gaga. But she is certainly within her rights to imply, gently, that Lady G. has appropriated some aspects of her image, sound and message. Music critics were the first, in fact, to point out the similarities between Gaga’s 'Born This Way' and M’s 'Express Yourself.'
Elton John, who has been a star since 1970, feels he has earned the right to be perennially cranky and opinionated. Fine. And he does wonderful charity work.
But I think Madonna, who has been a star since 1983, has earned the right to answer a question honestly, from her point of view. Or to accept an award, if she wins one.
Elton has had a bee in his bonnet about Madonna for years. At various times he has criticized her singing, dancing, her right to be a star, even. She has rarely responded.
In this case, however, it is Elton who appears to be 'desperate.' Back in the day, Madonna could be ungracious and careless in her remarks, but I never recall her attacking another performer in this manner, or publicly declaring she should have won an award instead of somebody else. (Perhaps she learned her lesson when, in the midst of a wave of positive reviews and publicity for 'Evita' - and a Golden Globe win - she said she thought she deserved to be nominated for an Oscar, too. The Academy was not amused.)
The truth is, most of the public has never heard either Elton or Madonna’s song. Why carry on so?
Oh, 'reductive?' It means something is the same, only less.
Those two words, uttered by Madonna, in response to ABC-TV’s Cynthia McFadden’s question about a Lady Gaga song, has 'gone viral,' as they say.
Even better, when McFadden, who certainly knows what the word means, asked Madonna to define it, M coyly said, 'Look it up!'
Apparently, a lot of people have. Now, I keep hearing the word, generally accompanied with a laugh and a reference to the pop icon. Madonna has taught us much over the years, now she’s revived a word rarely used. (Well, I’ve always said if Madonna hadn’t gone into music, she would have stayed in Michigan and become Miss Ciccone, the stern English teacher.)
It was this benign answer about Gaga that became part of the Elton John/ David Furnish’s attack on Madonna, after she won a Golden Globe for best original song on Sunday night. The song is titled 'Masterpiece' from her coming film, 'W.E.' (Elton’s effort was 'Hello, Hello' from the flop animated movie 'Gnomeo and Juliet.') Aside from ripping Madonna’s song, the pair declared - on Twitter and Facebook - that Madonna’s 'attack' on Gaga 'shows how desperate she is.'
Goodness, I didn’t get that at all. Madonna has no inclination to trash Gaga. But she is certainly within her rights to imply, gently, that Lady G. has appropriated some aspects of her image, sound and message. Music critics were the first, in fact, to point out the similarities between Gaga’s 'Born This Way' and M’s 'Express Yourself.'
Elton John, who has been a star since 1970, feels he has earned the right to be perennially cranky and opinionated. Fine. And he does wonderful charity work.
But I think Madonna, who has been a star since 1983, has earned the right to answer a question honestly, from her point of view. Or to accept an award, if she wins one.
Elton has had a bee in his bonnet about Madonna for years. At various times he has criticized her singing, dancing, her right to be a star, even. She has rarely responded.
In this case, however, it is Elton who appears to be 'desperate.' Back in the day, Madonna could be ungracious and careless in her remarks, but I never recall her attacking another performer in this manner, or publicly declaring she should have won an award instead of somebody else. (Perhaps she learned her lesson when, in the midst of a wave of positive reviews and publicity for 'Evita' - and a Golden Globe win - she said she thought she deserved to be nominated for an Oscar, too. The Academy was not amused.)
The truth is, most of the public has never heard either Elton or Madonna’s song. Why carry on so?
Oh, 'reductive?' It means something is the same, only less.
From www.wowowow.com/liz-smith - thanks to Alex
BBC 5 Live looking for UK based Madonna fan
Thursday, 19 January 2012
BBC 5 Live are looking for a Madonna fan to go on their breakfast radio show tomorrow around 8.20am (UK time).
Must be UK based and be able to talk about Madonna lots.
Anyone interested email [email protected] and they will pass on your details to the BBC who will be in contact if interested!
Must be UK based and be able to talk about Madonna lots.
Anyone interested email [email protected] and they will pass on your details to the BBC who will be in contact if interested!
German Magazines: Grazia and In Touch
Thursday, 19 January 2012
German magazines Grazia and In Touch both featured pictures from Madonna's recent skiing holiday in Gstaad, Switzerland. Click on the articles to enlarge.
Thanks to Kirsten
Madonna wants to make a movie about Will and Kate
Thursday, 19 January 2012
The legendary singer - who has just made her directorial debut with new film 'W.E', which tells the story of Wallis Simpson and King Edward VIII - wants to continue the theme of royal romance and shoot a movie about the couple as her next project.
However, she wants to give the royal pair - who married on April 29 2011 - 'a decade' to settle in to their marriage before making any firm plans.
She explained: 'I think maybe it is too soon to make a film about William and Kate but I definitely would if I could wait a decade first.'
'I like Kate Middleton and think she's quite chic and intelligent. I hope she's a fan of mine, too.'
However, she wants to give the royal pair - who married on April 29 2011 - 'a decade' to settle in to their marriage before making any firm plans.
She explained: 'I think maybe it is too soon to make a film about William and Kate but I definitely would if I could wait a decade first.'
'I like Kate Middleton and think she's quite chic and intelligent. I hope she's a fan of mine, too.'
From dailytelegraph.com.au