SUMMER 2013: TOP 20 MOVIES NOT TO MISS

To prepare for this year’s Summer Movie Preview countdown, I took a look back at last year’s lists to score how I did with my prejudgment. I’d give myself a ‘B’. Dark Shadows proved unworthy of the 5th spot and Avengers fared better commercially and critically than Dark Knight Rises (I blame the Good Will Hunting ending). Glad I rated ‘Moonrise Kingdom’ so high as it was my favorite film last year. This year will be a giant TOP TWENTY countdown!

AN EVENING WITH WOMEN, SUPPORTING L.A. GAY & LESBIAN CENTER

We had the pleasure of attending “An Evening With Women,” an event produced by Linda Perry to benefit the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center. The event is one of the premiere LGBT events in Los Angeles, shining a spotlight on lesbians and bisexual women and their allies. Hosted by Kathy Griffin, the evening consisted of a cocktail reception, dinner, auction and performances by some of the biggest names in the industry at The Beverly Hilton Hotel.

AMERICAN IDOL FINALE, THREE TIMES A CHARM FOR CANDACE GLOVER

Three times was a charm for Candace Glover. After being sent home in both Season 9 and Season 11, Candace tried one more time and last night was named the Season 12 American Idol champion. In a season dominated by the girls, Candace Glover was clearly the best of the bunch and deserved to win. Week after week Candace was the best singer and was in my “Top 3” each week.

JAY Z'S AN OVERSIMPLIFICATION OF HER BEAUTY

With Jay-Z as one of its executive producers, you already know that this movie will be a lyrical triumph; however, filmmaker Terence Nance has gone one better with his big screen debut. An Oversimplification of Her Beauty is a true work of art through and through.

LA TIMES HERO COMPLEX FILM FESTIVAL BRINGS BACK "INDEPENDENCE DAY"

Nearly 17 years after the film’s initial release, the blockbuster film Independence Day burst into theaters with explosions and special effects as loud as special guest-Jeff Goldblum’s bright orange pants!