Facebook, Privacy and the Wild Wild Web
Facebook recently unveiled several changes to its service that give users more sharing options, but in the process the company demonstrated what many have come to believe is its intentional disregard for user privacy.
This mistake feels a lot like Facebook's February 2009 debacle when the company changed its user agreement in an "all take, no give" arrangement that gave the company the right to use, in perpetuity, all information shared by its users on the site. Users rebelled and Facebook backed down immediately.
But this time it's different. With these recent updates, Facebook has given users two important things: Easier ways to share and participate among communities of interest within the network and more privacy and protection settings to accommodate this new structure.
Facebook's mistake is two-fold. First, the default privacy settings for the new Facebook are not Friends, Friends of Friends, or all of Facebook, but the entire Internet. Second, Facebook has provided no easy road map for just how to navigate to the 50 privacy settings in order to choose from among the more than 170 privacy options.
Users' confusion over the default settings and how to change them, along with lackluster explanations of the benefits of the new changes, has created the usual uproar we've come to expect each time Facebook tweaks our home away from home.
Unfortunately for Facebook, this update has also created what analysts suspect is an increase in the number of users wanting to delete their Facebook accounts. The number of searches for "how do i delete my facebook account [sic]" have increased dramatically since the changes were announced, and a mass exodus from Facebook has been scheduled for May 31.
Nothing On the Web Is Free
Facebook has over 400 million users, and after the mass exodus, the site will have over 400 million users.
The changes Facebook has made are part of Facebook's inevitable monetizing strategy. And that's the point. Nothing about Facebook is free. Facebook has never been in the game not to make money. And it's finally doing so. This year the company is expected to have revenues of between $1.2 and $2 billion. And yes, some of that will be profit.
Facebook will ultimately strike the necessary balance between its bottom line and its users. They always do. But what users have to realize is that one fact will remain: Facebook will make money off of the information users share on its site.
To those for whom this is a bad thing, Facebook is not the place to be. Profile information is the most valuable information for marketers on the Web, and no single Web service has more of this type of information than Facebook. Facebook will continue along its path to use this information to make money in order to stay in business and to continue to give users the services they sign up for in droves.
The critics are right: Facebook wants to make mountains of cash. But they can only do it if its users are happy.
The Wild Wild Web
A lot of the information you share on Facebook - your email address, phone number, physical address - is already public on the web and would remain so if Facebook went away tomorrow. This information was there before Facebook and exists online independently of Facebook.
Take a look at Pipl.com. Type in your name or the name of your best friend, or your worst enemy, and see what pops up. A recent search on this writer's name produced the following information:
Contact details from Whitepages.com, Spokeo.com, and two others
Background reports from Intelius.com
Personal profiles from MySpace, Spokeo, LinkedIn, Members-Base, Bebo and Flickr
Email addresses from Inelius that are so old I caught myself wanting to say they pre-date the Web
Public records including birth records from BirthDetails.com and Intelius
Videos from YouTube
Web pages
Blog posts
Documents
Many sites like this have emerged over the years. Pipl, Spokeo and Zillow.com, to name a few, all publish information many users feel is private. But in fact, it is not. It's quite public, and sites like these aggregate this information from public sources.
Which leads to a not-so-recent trend in social media, but one that is about to see the roof blow off because of yet another new initiative by Facebook.
The trend is social media aggregation, where information from different social media sites is pulled together in one location so that it can be more easily digested. Many aggregation services, like Gist, FriendFeed and NetVibes, offer tools and widgets that let users combine messages, search multiple social media sites at once, track friends, and even access their profile data all from one place, all in an attempt to simplify an individual's social media participation.
With the recent introduction of Open Graph, Facebook will attempt to take social aggregation into the stratosphere. In fact, Facebook wants to turn the entire Web into your personal aggregator.
Currently, different social media sites contribute to some part of the social graph. Yelp is mapping out the part of the graph that connects people to local businesses. Pandora is mapping out the part related to music. With Open Graph, Facebook plans to bring these graphs together.
"If we can take these separate maps of the graph and pull them all together," says Zuckerberg, as reported by CNET.com, "then we can create a Web that's smarter, more social, more personalized, and more semantically aware."
He goes on to say, "These connections aren't just happening on Facebook, they're happening all over the Web, and today with the Open Graph we're bringing all these things together."
If you use Facebook, you might be surprised to find you're already participating in its new social graph. Go to Account > Privacy Settings and click on Applications and Websites. There you'll see Instant Personalization Pilot Program. Click on it to see the beginnings of a monumental change on the Web.
Good Rules of Thumb
Just consider that anything you say on Facebook is public, and don't say anything that you would have to whisper to anyone whom you're dining with at an outdoor cafe.
Each time you allow a Facebook app to access your profile information, read the Terms and Conditions for that app. Apps are bound by neither Facebook's Privacy Policy nor its Terms and Conditions. They are third-party relationships, and when you share your Facebook information with them you do so independently of Facebook. Apps are how a lot of profile info leaks out of Facebook. Facebook should be clearer about this and should be more concerned for users' privacy when it comes to third-party apps, and it wouldn't be surprising if their approach to apps changes sometime soon.
Other sites offering FacebookConnect are safe. FacebookConnect is a service that lets users enjoy their Facebook relationships on other websites. Users can sign in with their Facebook username and password and discover what their friends find interesting on a particular site. The third-party website does not have access to your Facebook profile information.
Ian Huckabee is a writer and web marketing strategist. He creates social media marketing programs and solutions for organizations and individuals, and he specializes in integrating social media marketing with search engine marketing. He's an avid tweeter and enjoys creating short bursts of fiction 140-characters at a time.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4311198
By Ian Huckabee
If the Sneaker Fits - Exercise
Sneakers are designed to support your feet during activity, provide traction, and protect your feet from injury. Regardless of the type of sneaker you choose, good fit of sneakers is critical. Ill-fitting sneakers can cause discomfort or blisters, or with long term use, bunions, calluses, corns, and hammertoes.
To ensure that your sneakers will fit properly, shop at the end of the day. Your feet are generally swollen from activity at this time and are the largest this part of the day. Have both of your feet measured regularly since your feet may change in size as you grow older. A person may have different sized feet. Sneakers should be sized to the larger foot. Have your feet measured while standing since your feet will expand with weightbearing.
When fitting sneakers, wear the socks you will normally wear with your sneakers. Try on both sneakers. Stand to make sure there is adequate space (1/2" or the width of your index finger) between your longest toe and the end of each sneaker. You should be able to wiggle your toes in the toe box.
Be sure the ball of your foot, the widest part, fits comfortably into the widest part of the sneaker. Walk or run in the sneakers to make sure it they are comfortable. The heel should have minimal slippage. Make sure your heel does not ride up and down when you walk.
Try several brands and models of sneakers. They will all fit differently and have different comfort characteristics. Your sneakers should feel good the day you buy them. Do not rely on a break-in period. Do not purchase sneakers that are not comfortable immediately.
Opt for sneakers that are appropriate for your activity of choice. Each has its own features for comfort and support to prevent injury. Remember, a good multi-purpose sneaker such as a cross trainer is recommended for your fitness program. Sneakers that fit properly help you stay active and do the things you enjoy. Don your new sneakers and workout in the privacy of your own home with Sisters in Sneakers. With variety of exercises including flexibility, strengthening, and cardiovascular exercises, nutritional information, motivations, and a fitness partner, Sisters in Sneakers is one of the most unique home fitness products on the market today.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1145674
By Linda Schnable
Facebook, The Addiction
Since the beginning of this digital age people have admitted to being addicted to different online sensations like casino sites. With social networking's highly popular rise over the past few years Facebook has been no different with users finding a certain obsession with this new online environment making it very difficult to get up and walk away from their computers.
The addiction hasn't been confined to just the younger age groups such as teenagers but instead can be seen to have had an effect on all age groups no matter what they're background, education or experience. Unbelievably a common occurrence when using public transport (train, tube etc) is for many people to have their heads down looking at mobile devices such as a mobile phone or ipad. Facebook is usually a common appearance when looking over the shoulder of some of these public transport users meaning that to some extent mobile technology could be reinforcing the addiction.
How does it begin?
In many ways Facebook could resemble a fad where many people are signing up because many of their friends have already done the same. Teenagers are especially encouraged by those around them meaning that it acts as a social standard to fit in. This type of behaviour was seen with the obsession of texting when mobile technology began to become more and more popular. With a social network such as Facebook it is very hard to avoid the need to join in with the crowd especially with the high number of people that are already taking part. It really can move attention away from other aspects of a persons life.
What is the effect?
Online addiction has always had some negative aspects where a person begins to depend on it a point where they begin to lose sleep or hardly eat. Here's some more:-
Desperate - People may find that they have a dependency on Facebook showing a desperate need to constantly review their feed etc. It leads to an increase in time spent online which can have a negative effect on what other activities that they should be doing instead.
Social - A reduction in time spent in the real world meeting with friends in a physical sense could be a thing of the past. These people would rather spend their time on Facebook talking to them over the messenger.
Language - Certain abbreviations that are sometimes used online can filter into the real world. For example, a person may use the word 'LOL (Laughing Out Loud)' to a scenario or event to show their humour instead of actually laughing.
Do any of these sound familiar?
The End Point Facebook is an amazing tool to keep in touch with friends but that is all it should remain, a TOOL. Beyond that the effect can be detrimental to a person.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mathew_Burns
Quitting The Habit – How To Choose The Right Method?
Once you have made the decision to quit smoking, you should choose a method to help you overcome the habit. Each method has advantages and disadvantages, so it's a good idea to examine all of them before deciding.
No matter which method you choose, it is important to have the support and encouragement of family and friends. You can quit smoking on your own but you are more likely to succeed if you have moral support from the people around you.
For most people, the desire to smoke comes in waves. One way to deal with those waves is to pick up the phone and talk to someone who knows that you are trying to quit. This has the dual benefit of offering some distraction as well as getting encouragement in your battle against tobacco.
Ways to Quit
Cold Turkey - If you have a great deal of willpower and a strong desire to quit smoking, you may be able to do it cold turkey. Quitting cold turkey means that you simply stop -- no intermediate steps, just going from your regular habit to no smoking at all.
Certain individuals that metabolize nicotine relatively slowly are more likely to succeed by quitting cold turkey. This is because they are not as physically addicted to nicotine as other smokers are. People with a higher dependence on nicotine may find they need to use a nicotine substitute such as patches or gum.
Slowly Cutting Down - Rather than quitting cold turkey, some people prefer to gradually reduce the number of cigarettes they smoke each day. In order for this to work you need to have a plan to reduce your smoking by a certain amount each day and a goal for the day when you want to be completely smoke-free.
There are many strategies you can use. You could smoke one less cigarette each day; you could delay smoking the first cigarette of the day by a greater amount each day; or you could limit your smoking to a certain number of cigarettes within a three hour period.
Nicotine Substitutes - Either of the above methods could be supplemented with the use of a nicotine substitute like gum, spray or patches. This helps reduce the craving for nicotine which is behind the desire to smoke. The brain has become accustomed to regular doses of nicotine so by supplying the nicotine by other means quitting the habit becomes easier.
Before using a nicotine substitute consult with your doctor concerning any health risks that may be associated with it. Nicotine substitutes are available in the form of chewing gum, nasal spray, lozenges, inhalators, or tablets that are kept under the tongue. Patches can also be worn on the skin to provide a constant supply of nicotine to the bloodstream throughout the day.
Zyban - Zyban is an antidepressant drug that has been proven effective reducing nicotine withdrawal symptoms. It is available by doctor's prescription.
Hypnosis - Hypnosis has also been used to help overcome nicotine cravings. It seems to be most effective in those who have a strong desire to quit.
Acupuncture - As with hypnosis, acupuncture works best with people who are committed to quitting smoking. Both acupuncture and hypnosis may work by reinforcing the commitment to giving up smoking. There is no evidence that they are any more effective than other methods.
Jeans and Sneakers: Fashion Don'ts in Paris?
Being the Senior Editor of Paris-Eiffel-Tower-News.com, visitors' e-mails have a magical tendency to find their way to my desk. The good side of it is I am allowed to pause vainly as an expert on all that is Paris, and impart my thin knowledge of the French capital to studious travelers. Amongst the many questions offered, one keeps coming back: "Is it considered bad taste to wear sneakers in Paris?" Ah-ha! That's an issue P.G. Wodehouse's Bertie Wooster would have been delighted to jump on. Following in the footsteps of this worthy role model, I shall bring an answer to this existential torment once and for all with thundering authority.
Paris, French fashion, sneakers
Paris-bound tourists are often of the opinion that French women are die-hard fashion victims. This claim is definitely exaggerated, though access to stylish clothing is heavily facilitated in Paris where women magazines such as 'Elle' and 'Figaro Madame' dictate what's fashionable and what's not.
In my humble opinion, perennial tastes look very much alike in Paris and New York City. Globalization tends to homogenize fashion, making work-a-day wear similar in large cities.
No matter, the sneaker concern remains valid. Sneakers are now such a commodity in the US, how is it in Paris?
The generally accepted business dress code in France usually bars sneakers from entering the corporate environment, except for low-level positions. Thus the Parisian woman wears good-looking city shoes to go to work, unless the business which employs her cultivates a sporty image in which sneakers find a natural home.
Yet sneakers have become design icons in their own right. Adidas, Puma and Nike each have their own Parisian stores, and crank out more models a convincing fashion-victim could easily shake credit cards at. Adidas recently teamed with iconic fashion designer Yohji Yamamoto to create Y-3, a new line of dress-up sneakers. Stella McCartney also has her own Adidas line.
What major difference in shoe-attitude could we identify between American and French she-consumers? The latter will wear sneakers as design items, not as workaday shoes. Sneakers won't be bought for comfort, but will find an easy way into a tight purse when they compliment dress-down pants and make their owner look good. The She-Parisian loves sneakers which make her feet look thin, small, and classy.
A mere glance at the types of sneakers most commonly seen on women's feet in Paris is telling: you won't see any wide, cushy, comfy-looking, plain vanilla sneakers. You will see small, thin-looking, flat-sole, designer sneakers.
For the same reasons, a pair of Stephane Kelian or Robert Clergerie shoes will almost always be favored over a pair of good-looking Pumas. Shoes are a fashion statement, and the more understated it is, the better.
That's another major difference between French and American women. Understatement is a cardinal rule in French fashion. Anything that is too visible is considered garish. This is why the little black dress is such a fashion icon, and why Audrey Hepburn will always be remembered as The Quintessential Fashionable American Woman.
Tourism in sneakers
All this does not mean you can't wear sneakers when you travel to Paris!
For one thing, sneakers are usually comfortable walking shoes. As the very best way to discover Paris is to stroll along its streets, wearing shoes in which you feel comfortable covering five miles a day at a leisurely pace is an important decision. It will influence your general mood during your stay in the French capital.
Do not back off from wearing sneakers if these are your best walking shoes.
My second point refers to the 'look issue'. Will I look good in the streets, or will I be the laughingstock of all these snooty, dressed-up, fashion-conscious Parisian women?
Frankly, you should not ask yourself this question. Because who cares about your looks in the street? Never be self-conscious, just be comfortable in your shoes. You are a tourist, this is your very own time in Paris! Jeans and sneakers are international. People will not be offended by your attire. Unless you dress in 80's disco garb with polka-dot sneakers, nobody around you will mind your looks.
And if they ever notice your jeans, LL Bean trekking shoes, and Patagonia jacket, well, push come to shove, they might think you're American. And so what? In all likelihood they will appreciate your visiting Paris.
Dining out in sneakers
Does it mean you can wear sneakers everywhere, on any and every occasion? Not so.
For instance, can you have dinner in a restaurant shoed with your brand-new white sneakers?
For the sake of it, let's imagine you are strolling along in your Levi's jeans and Lands End boots. It's now dinner time, you are hungry, and scanning the landscape looking for a promising restaurant. There is it! The menu displayed outside is appetizing, prices are within your comfort zone, the place is not so crowded... Ah, but guests are dressed smartly. Will they let you in? Will you fit in?
I have yet to see a door sign indicating 'No Sneakers Allowed' in Paris. Some high-brow places may expertly leave you at bay: "Do you have a reservation? Sorry, we are full tonight". But beside those rare snobbish places, no restaurant will refuse to seat you because you wear casual sneakers.
Therefore the right question is not 'Will I be allowed in?', but 'Will I feel comfortable entering a dressy place in sneakers?' I venture that you probably would not. And the problem is that being self-conscious is a surefire way to kill your meal. Your attention should be in your plate and on your food, not on your shoes and garb.
My practical rule is 'Dress according to the lieu'. If you intend to dine out at expensive, dressy restaurants when you are in Paris, just bring your Pradas. Better yet: pay a visit to Stephane Kelian's and Robert Clergerie's boutiques in Paris, and buy yourself gorgeous-looking footwear by these Parisian designers.
A night in sneakers a the Opera
There are other places where sneakers just won't cut it.
The Opera House is one of them. But I know no one who would be so foolish as to dress in jeans and sneakers for a night at the Opera. Therefore the sneaker issue is deemed moot.
What about the cabaret? I say it is much better to dress up when you plan to spend the evening at 'Moulin Rouge', 'Lido', and 'Paradis Latin'. Though the stage is the only spot well lit in these places, people around you will usually dress up for the occasion. You will be more comfortable in some formal wear.
How about the boats on the Seine? If you are boarding a boat for a dinner cruise, don't wear sneakers. This is a romantic experience, you will want to make the most of it. An evening dress is 'de rigueur'. On the other hand, if you simply want to cruise up and down the stream, sneakers are fine.
Museums? Forget style, wear very comfortable shoes. Nobody will look at your shoes, art is on the walls. But walking down the Louvre galleries is a tiring experience: so much too see, so many galleries, so slow the pace. The good doctor's advice: go with cushion and comfort.
Art gallery 'vernissages'? Style is your cue. Art galleries are small, vernissage evenings are short. Evening dress, black preferably, nothing flashy, and good-looking design shoes. No sneakers.
Wrapping up
Dress for the place you go to. If you are unsure about the dress code, you may call in advance to get appraised of it. Pack a dressy pair of shoes, or buy one when you are in Paris. Bring a discreet, understated evening dress.
But don't back away from sneakers for other not-so-formal occasions. Wear them shamelessly in the street. You will blend just fine if you harbor a pair of jeans and a pair of sneakers. Nike is an American brand, and it is very popular in France. Levi's, Diesel, and Calvin Klein are American brands, and they rule the French jeans scene too. In fact, I can't quite think of any domain in France where American culture did not leave a mark -- except maybe cuisine.
So be comfortable in your sneakers, and enjoy the view.
By Phil Chavanne
Different Styles and Types of Sneakers and Running Shoes
Breaking in your new running shoes will take some time so you might want to consider buying new shoes before your old ones fall apart. Nothing is worse that not having your old running shoes to fall back on while you break in the new ones. Breaking in those new running shoes means wearing them for short periods of time each day until you have them stretched and molded to your feet. If you're uncertain about what sneakers or running shoes you need be sure to ask someone at the store who can help you. The more informed you are the better when it comes to buying new shoes for your feet.
By hunter
Sneakers Rule the Fashion World
The first rubber soled shoes, not yet known as sneakers, made their appearance in the 1800's. By the 1890's Goodyear, just a rubber shoe company at the time, began making rubber and canvas shoes. The shoes went by a variety of names until they settled on Keds. It was actually Keds, once they became mass produced in 1917 that became known as sneakers. The moniker was bestowed by Henry Nelson McKinney, an advertising agent for N.W. Ayer & Son who noted that the shoes were quiet, making not a sound no matter what surface they came in contact with.
Keds that were among the first sneakers to actually be chosen for fashion reasons. Back in the 1980s and 1990s, Keds were often worn with socks and leg warmers and became part of many cheerleading ensembles. As the popularity of Keds increased, other shoe manufacturers jumped on the band wagon. As far back as the 1960s, Pro Keds used for professional sports were popular with athletes. Today, the vintage fashion movement has made them popular again.
Today, Keds and many other manufacturers focus on individual style. Pairing clothing with fashion sneakers creates a total package for the person who wants to be appreciated for his or her style. Canvas tops, wedges and even personalized shoes can make so much more a fashion statement than the sneakers of years gone by.
Converse, Adidas and Nike all have had their moment in sun as fashion icons in the world of sneakers. As shoe manufacturers began to see the power their products had, they strove to create ever-changing designs, styles and looks that would appeal to broader consumer base. Now there is something available for every individual regardless of their age, tastes and budget constraints.
And sneakers aren't just for wearing with your jeans anymore. If you think I'm kidding, perhaps you haven't tuned in to music over the last few years. More than a few songs have been written about sneakers or at least feature them prominently. The popularity of wearing sneakers with everything has such appeal; the idea has even been immortalized in the popular song "La La Land Machine" by Demi Lovato. While she croons about wearing her Converse with her dresses, any sneakers in any color will do just as well.
The point, as sneakerheads know is that fashion doesn't make the sneaker. Sneakers make the fashion.
Ripstyle® means many things to many people. Ripstyle® has evolved from the beginning as a pool of young talent that has grown into a phenomenon of gifted people that continue to innovate first and foremost, with Simply Great Products.
Check out Ripstyle Brand's sneakers for all aspects of your life at:
http://www.ripstyle-brand.net
By Sass Ashe
Fashion Sneakers - This Year's Trend
Wearing the Superga 2750 shoe is an ideal way of being right on trend in a credit crunch economy. They come in all sizes, colours and patterns and are popular with all age groups. They are a versatile sneaker and are fantastically well priced.
Who wears Superga shoes?
Students - festival fashion
A battered pair of white canvas plimsolls is a great contrast to a pretty tea dress. Whilst a pastel colour pair feminises a pair of combo jeans. This is a favourite choice for stylish teenage girls. They complement cut off shorts, floating skirts, floral tea dresses and jeans. This is a perfect gift for a fashion conscious youngster. Teenage boys can wear them for any occasion, casual or smart. Superga mid tops look great with shorts and jeans. Unbelievably good value for cash strapped youngsters!
Yummy Mummies
Undoubtedly own several Superga shoes to complement their fashion wardrobe. They love wearing the 2750 classic with skinny jeans, rolled up jeans and flares. Favourite colours are navy, pink and cactus. Superga shoes also look great with floral dresses and skirts. The timeless 2750 range comes in fun flowery patterns and stripes and lots of vibrant summer colours. The classic retro black plimsoll is comfortable and incredibly versatile. Best of all each pair is great value and long-lasting. Why not pack a pair of plimsolls for your summer holiday? Ideal for long days of sight-seeing and hanging out at the beach! UK Superga face Alexa Chung has got great ideas on how to style up the look.
Cool Kids
Superga have a great range of trainers for kids. Easy to keep clean - just throw them in the washing machine. A lightweight economic and trendy solution for kid's holiday footwear! Their styles include lace ups and Velcro straps and sizes range from toddler to adult. They are practical to wear on the beach, playing games and whilst travelling. Kids love the summer style colours from pink to turquoise to acid green. They even have silver and shiny colours for the seriously fashion conscious kids! And let's not forget all those fun patterns.
Fashion conscious men
Men love the deck shoe and mid top range. A laid back effortless style which is a must have for this season. The beige and coffee coloured styles in suede and full grain leather are classic and go well with both smart and casual outfits. They are comfortable and versatile and are available in a great range of colours. The men's 2750 classic range comes in many colours. A great present idea for your man!
About the company
This year the company is celebrating its 100 year anniversary. Style icon Alexa Chung, face of the Italian brand commented: "I hope I'm that cool when I'm a 100"! Superga is named after a town near Turin and the company was founded in 1911. Superga differentiated itself by producing shoes with rubber soles and the brand became famous because of its white tennis shoes. Its mission has always been to bring to the people high quality shoes. After creating the Classic Superga 2750, the company has wanted to add new ranges to their existing one. Now Superga makes technical sport shoes, the City collection and outerwear boots. Superga offers shoes in a great variety of styles, colours and prints. They are classic practical and elegant. The shoes come in fabric, leather and suede with tough rubber soles. Each year their product range is updated.
Check out this website for great deals on the 2750 range and for all other Superga styles.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6329763
By Susanna Paris
Hollywood News and Movie Review - Contagion Movie Releasem
One of the most talked about movies of 2011 is Contagion. Contagion is a recently released American thriller film which takes place in a city that is surrounded by a deadly disease and portrays how a band of doctors from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and World Health Organization struggle to deal with the rising threat. The movie is directed by the renowned Oscar-winning film director Steven Soderbergh who has also directed numerous box office breakers such as Erin Brokovich, Traffic, Ocean's Eleven, Ocean's Twelve, Ocean's Thirteen, and many more. He received an Academy Award for Best Director for his 2000 film, Traffic.
The movie Contagion is expected to gain success, both in the US and worldwide. It features notable actors and actresses such as Marion Cotillard, Laurence Fishburne, Matt Damon, Jude Law, Kate Winslet, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Jennifer Ehle. The star-studded cast alone encourages movie enthusiasts to visit cinemas all over the world and watch the film.
In a nutshell, the story takes place mostly in Minneapolis that is hit by a contagious disease brought by a woman named Beth Emhoff (played by Gwyneth Paltrow) who has just come back to her home in Minneapolis after a brief business trip to Hong Kong. Immediately after her return, Beth is rushed to a local hospital and she dies shortly after her treatment, leaving behind her husband Mitch Emhoff (played by Matt Damon) and her stepson. Not long after her death, 32 people including her stepson die from an unknown disease which has symptoms similar to the disease that Beth suffered from.
As the contagion spreads, the officials of the city of Minneapolis discuss possible solutions, airports are closed down, and national security guards are assigned to protect the city. Meanwhile, a team of CDC and WHO doctors (portrayed by Laurence Fishburne, Kate Winslet, and Marion Cotillard) tries their best to combat the contagion by finding a cure before the entire city is wiped out by the disease.
Contagion was released in the United States, Canada, Italy, and five other countries on September 9, 2011, but it was premiered at the 68th Venice Film Festival on last September 3, 2011. One day before the world premiere, Warner Bros. held advanced screenings in 550 theaters across the United States. After spending a total of $60 million on the production budget, Warner Bros. is confident that the movie become a Box Office success.
Many movies are released each week in Hollywood. The movie Contagion is just one of many. Get more Hollywood News and Movie Review by visiting our site.
By Hery Doel Setyawan
In Memorial: Cliff Robertson Sept 9, 1923 - Sept 10, 2011
Last Saturday, September 10th 2011, Hollywood as well as the world of television lost one of it's most recognisable and constant actors. His career spanned over 50 years.
Clifford Parker "Cliff" Robertson III was born on September 9th, 1923 in La Jolla, California. His mother, Audrey Willingham and father, Clifford Parker Robertson II divorced when he was just 1 years old and his mother past away a year later. Robertson was raised by his paternal grandmother and an aunt, but remained close to his father. He graduated from La Jolla High School in 1941 and then served in the merchant marines during World War II. After the war he attended Antioch College in Ohio and worked as a journalist for a short time.
Robertson's acting career began in 1950 when he got a bit part in Mr Roberts. He caught a break soon after when he was personally chosen by John F. Kennedy to portray the future president as a Lieutenant in the Navy in the film PT-109. He then played a presidential candidate in the 1964 movie The Best Man. Four years later, Robertson won the 1968 Academy Award for Best Actor for his role as a mentally challenged man in the film Charly.
Beginning in the '50's, Robertson appeared in a large host of films, included are, Picnic (1955) Autumn Leaves (1956), Gidget (1959), Sunday in New York (1963), Devil's Brigade(1968), Too Late the Hero (1970),J.W. Coop (1972), Three Days of the Condor (1975), Obsession (1976), Star 80(1983) and Malone (1987). Late in his life, Robertson's career enjoyed a resurgence when he scored the role as Uncle Ben Parker, Peter Parker's gentle and wise uncle in the first movie adaption of Spider Man(2002), and then reprised the role in the following sequels, Spider Man 2(2004) and Spider Man 3(2007). Robertson commented about this on his website saying, "Since Spider-Man 1 and 2, I seem to have a whole new generation of fans. That in itself is a fine residual."
Besides an active big screen career, Robertson was a regular fixture on television, appearing in many shows and made for television movies. He appeared in 2 episodes of the T.V. classic The Twilight Zone, the first was entitled A Hundred Yards Over the Rim(1961) and The Dummy(1962), where he played a ventriloquist who believed his dummy was alive. In 1958 he portrayed the character Joe Clay in the first broadcast of Playhouse 90's "Days of Wine and Roses". Other network appearances include, The Greatest Show on Earth(1963) and ABC's Breaking Point(1964). Robertson also appeared in episodes of Batman, The Outlaws, Falcon Crest and both the '60's and '90's versions of The Outer Limits.
Robertson's favorite hobby was flying. He owned vintage and classic airplanes such as, de Havilland Tiger Moths, a Messershcmitt bf 108 and a genuine World War II era Mk.IX Supermarine Spitfire MK923.
Robertson was not the flashy leading man many of his peers aspired to be. Nor did he seem to want to be. Instead, he quietly became one of the most recognisable actors in film and television. A consummate professional and gentleman, the industry was better for having him a part of it.
Cliff Robertson died Sept. 10 of natural causes, one day after his 88th birthday.
By Jim Serf
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