#ESPspotlight on: MANIC PANIC, THE COSMETICS COMPANY WITH A COLOURFUL CHRONOLOGY!

If you caught my recent #ESPspotlight Review of  London Edge / The LEdge then you may recall I mentioned a colour and cosmetics brand that I was quite the fan of, because of a backstory that began in my personal favourite era - the wonderful days of LaDonna, the days of D.I.S.C.O. The sparkling days of the late 70s.

Rather than the days of sequins and glitter however, sisters Tish and Snooky - a part of Blondie's original lineup - were an integral part of the evolution of Punk. Not quite '2 Broke Girls', but a similar premise; the siblings were bankrolled with a $500 dollar start up loan from their Mum, which they invested, along with their clothing designs, in their first punk-style boutique to land on trendy St. Mark's Place, or indeed, the first anywhere in America. Their first investor and (Giver of Life) coined the name 'Manic Panic' - inspired by her day job in a mental health facility - and off they set on a historical journey that saw them rocking out on stage at night, and excelling as entrepreneurs by day.

Now, I was just taken with the novelty of the products and some really brilliant, engaging staff representing the brand to begin with; but on reading up on the company's history, I have to direct you to quite the inspiring read, or I just wouldn't be doing my civic duty as a teller of talented people. No-one can tell Tish and Snooky's story better than Tish and Snooky however, so here's their story in a nutshell:

Tell me these aren't two cool chicks you wouldn't want to take you on a day-long tour of New York, with a night ending in the best entertainment that Studio 54 had to offer - it could have been the wrong club for the genre but hey, you can't knock a girl's lifelong dream...or not find a way to work it into every dream she has.

Although that first store was all about the fashion, it's mainly the colour ranges - more specifically their hair dyes - that gained the siblings their multi-million dollar fortune, and notoriety. Whilst not a customer for their vibrant hair colour range - although I may give a pink-yet-lavender wig a whirl at some point in the future, just for funsies - it was their makeup ranges that enchanted me. Anyone who can combine two of my favourite creative elements - Music and Makeup - becomes an instant font of worship in my book. Have a little looksee at these Cassette Tape Eyeshadow Palettes, they just so happened to be one of my favourite finds on the day...

You may need to have been born pre-this Century to grasp the significance of a music cassette tape!

Even their stand had character, with plenty of it speaking to you, everywhere you turned...

Bruce Willis has NOTHING on a Tish and Snooky franchise...

From Gothic Beauty to Vogue, the Manic Panic name has become a recognisable favourite amongst the most respected editorial and runway cosmetology teams. So much so, that the ladies made the jump to the Silver Screen, when they donated hair and makeup products to 'CBGB'; the new biopic immortalising the famous nightclub / birth canal of Punk Rock, released at last week's music festival of the same name:

It's no wonder the brand is right at home, no matter the location of their latest Alternative Mecca. The one thing that I've picked up from these ladies, is that they don't fit in with you - they're fierce examples of the importance of cutting your own cloth. Oh no, from London Edge to San Diego's Comicon - you fit in with them...

For proof of their worldwide reach, you only have to look as far as some of their more famous clientele, and recall the eras of their careers stamped by shockwaves of colour through their immediately identifiable manes...

Green Day

Katy Perry

Rihanna

And do not, for one moment, think that these guys are 'it'; there are many, many more fans of this empire - inside and out of the spotlight - way too many to mention in fact. But you're more than welcome to see if you recognise any favourites of your own, and maybe get a little inspiration for a certain pending costume day...

Yours Truly? I'm off to learn more about CBGB...

Until the next...
ES ;)

#ESPspotlight on: INTERNATIONAL JEWELLERY LONDON - EXHIBITOR NETWORKING RECEPTION, EARLS COURT, 2 SEPTEMBER

International Jewellery London held a lavish Exhibitor Networking Reception on the second of their four-day exhibition last month, where Yours Truly was invited to sum up the sparkly sights.

The warm welcome on arrival at the liquid opportunity to mingle, did little to quell my initial irritation when four different members of staff failed to direct me to the Press Office that I was required to report to. It took several wrong turns, flights of stairs, and one accidental find; before I stumbled across it. Signing in and collecting my information pack; I followed directions to the back of the venue, where I eventually found the lush cerise pink carpet signalling the catwalk stage, now roped off for the private party. 

The inimitable Hilary Alexander (with one Johnny Rocket in the background...)

Whilst no expert, my training this year has taught me, that the way the audience were milling around, lacking impatience, and not attempting to harm the nearest person mercilessly for a better view, or even squash into the seated areas, could only mean one thing: 30 minutes into the 45-minute catwalk presentation, the showcase was already over! Confirmation of my guess by a fellow photographer took me straight to Plan B, and so I started doing the rounds. Every shred of frustration dissipated however, the moment I laid eyes on the iconic Hilary Alexander who, as I mentioned last month, gave me some one of a kind advice going into my second Fashion Week.

Advice bestowed, Ms Alexander then told me in no uncertain terms, to pay close attention to the four recipients of the Bright Young Gems Award, whom she had personally helped select. If Hilary Alexander tells you to check out her proteges, know it's time to go CIA in your homework - immediately rooting around in my giftbag, I went straight for the press release:

'Bright Young Gems is the popular International Jewellery London feature which each year unveils the 'next big talent' – as yet undiscovered jewellery designers who are set to break the mould and inspire the industry. They are nominated by a prestigious panel including Hilary Alexander, Vivienne Becker of the Financial Times’ How To Spend It, Claudia Mahoney of Glamour magazine, Caragh McKay of Wallpaper* magazine and Bec Clarke of successful retailer Astley Clarke.

For the first time, Bright Young Gems is 'lighting up the UK' as the initiative goes national for 2013. Major UK colleges and jewellery courses were involved, with the panel selecting designers from key regions with exciting jewellery scenes.

"Broadening this initiative to include a national profile of graduates this year is warmly welcomed by us in the Midlands. Bright Young Gems is a brilliant platform to support new talent. It is tough to break into the market as a new graduate so every bit of help, particularly of this calibre, goes a long way towards building the confidence that they need to succeed. These new designers have real talent and will fully appreciate being part of such an important event in the UK jewellery calendar,"

Birmingham School of Jewellery’s Course Director Gaynor Andrews.

 "Bright Young Gems is a superb initiative and shows the industries wonderful support for young, up and coming jewellers while introducing them to the industry through IJL. It gives them a great kick-start in their future glittering careers,"

Marianne Forrest, Course Leader at London Metropolitan University.

This year’s Bright Young Gems have been unveiled as... 

Jessica Nam is a Birmingham based designer-maker with a passion for jewellery and previous experience within the creative design industry. She now uses only precious metals after having trained at the renowned School of Jewellery in Birmingham's famous Jewellery Quarter. Inspired by the balance of repeat formations and the opulence of natural gemstones, Jessica meticulously handcrafts strong sculptural forms in gold and silver, which often encase sparkling gemstones in an array of sumptuous colours. Combined with highly polished textures and her attention to wearability, Jessica creates subtle statement pieces of sophisticated jewellery.

Jessica says:

"Since starting out I have always intended to show in London, so to be given the opportunity to show at such an important trade event as a Bright Young Gem is incredibly encouraging and exciting. I'm looking forward to getting valuable feedback by established professionals in the industry".

Jessica on Facebook 

________________________________________

Amy Logan's work is inspired by the drawn line, in particular continuous line drawings which have a wonderful flow to them. The pieces she creates always have that sense of fluidity at the heart of their creation. She studied Metal Work and Jewellery at Sheffield Hallam University, gaining the skills and knowledge to create her collection after graduation. 



Amy comments:

"I am honoured to have been selected for Bright Young Gems and so excited to be able to say I will be at IJL this year. I plan to create some new pieces for the show and feel it will be a fantastic opportunity to have my work viewed by important industry experts".

Amy on Twitter 

_________________________________________

Carina De Jager was born in South Africa. Spending much of her childhood outdoors, she has a love for the natural world. This fascination resurfaces in the organic textures and patterns which appear in her work.


Graduating this year from The Cass, London Metropolitan University, where she studied silversmithing and jewellery, and now working from her London studio, Carina creates handmade jewellery pieces in a range of precious and non-precious materials. Her current range, Cohesion, is the result of her research into nature, and more specifically the relationship between plants and cities, with the aim of celebrating the resilience of plants to survive in unnatural and hostile environments. This inspiration was combined with experimentation with hot-melt glue in an attempt to recreate more organic forms. Once cast, these pieces reveal intricate patterns similar to the tangled root systems which lay hidden under our cities and towns.

Carina on Twitter 

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"My inspiration for my collection is drawn from my heritage and homeland," states Kelly Munro. She was born in a small town in the far north coast of Scotland, well known for its historical fishing industry. This inspiration is reflected in the lobster pots which were a starting point for her graduation show work. The technique of intricate saw piercing enables her to create nets and lightweight structures. Her aim is to shadow the forms of the nets and pots, and loosely interpret these shapes in her own way. The technique of pyrography plays an important role in her pieces, allowing her to make often detailed patterns combined with charred edges and loose paint strokes, mirroring the intricately knotted nets of the trade and wind beaten driftwood. Her work aims to portray the rustic look of items found near harbours and tide lines.

"I am really excited to exhibit as a Bright Young Gem in September. I am looking forward to seeing my work in a different light, and seeing what commercial potential lies within some of my pieces," comments Kelly, who has just graduated with a 1st Class BA (HONS) from Edinburgh College of Art.

Kelly on Facebook 

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And then of course, there was The Retailer's Choice - Hannah Kimber. An independent jewellery designer-maker and graduate from the Birmingham School of Jewellery, Hannah is set for a bright future with her striking statement pieces. Inspired by Islamic architecture, incorporating pattern with luxurious materials to create magnificent couture creations, her jewellery is stunning. She is a fan of using modern forms of jewellery production such as CAD, 3D printing and laser sintering technologies.


Due to this keen interest in production methods, Hannah aims to be recognised for her innovative use of the laser sintering technology which gives her a unique selling point as it is in such early stages within the trade. She has created collections built in bronze, that are 18ct yellow gold plated and gem set, resulting in luxurious cocktail style rings and necklaces, as well as dramatic black nylon and silver 18ct yellow gold plated creations. 

Hannah on Facebook / Hannah on Twitter 

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There's nothing like guidance from a Legend to trigger your mood's Reset button and so, off I floated on Cloud Nine Hundred and Ninety-Nine. With stronger spirits than the contents of my flute, I made my way around the merry affair; introducing myself to new faces, and catching up with some familiar ones. The endearing brother / sister team from family-run Sonny's Jewellery were as entertaining as the 4-piece band, serenading us all under soft lighting. Down to Earth and relatable, these two were the kind of people that you retain as your family jewellers, if you're so financially endowed. 

Moving through the crowd, I chanced upon the IJL version of the popular lunch table at school, thrilled to recognise my favourite find from Jewellery Week earlier this year. The absolutely lovely Maria Thompson, better known to you and I as Maree London, and Lucy Quartermaine - better known as LucyQ Designs, were holding court at a table full of beverages and banter that I just had to join.

A lovely evening of catch up and introductions to new brands, the success by night's end far outweighed my bumpy start, making me grateful to my kind hosts. Here's to venturing back to next year's housewarming at Olympia, on 31st August.

Until the next...
ES ;)

#ESPspotlight REVIEW: LONDON EDGE / The LEdge, KENSINGTON OLYMPIA, 1 SEPTEMBER

My first outing at last month's London Edge / The LEdge 2013, was an excellent education in more ways than one. With no idea of what to expect from a ticket touted as 'a temple to Fashion, in all of it's wonderful forms' in the 'alternative Fashion capital of the world'; I desperately tried not to fill my mind's eye with piercings, on the spot tattoo parlours, flame-throwing, and gender-ambiguous cartoon heroes loved by pre-pubescent teens everywhere; before recalling that attempting to reign in my imagination was about as useful an employment of my time, as trying to convince myself that Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen wouldn't jump at the chance to host...well, anything, in some pvc, leather, and some bottomless studded chaps, if the opportunity were not presented to him. It wouldn't even need to be a Saturday night. I'd put money on it, if I were the gambling type...

Back to the event at hand, however; my adventure began with two perfect examples of front of house professionalism. The organisers earned a perfect score for the helpful, informative, and welcoming staff who greeted me on arrival; one of whom actually escorted me to the designated Press stand on the event's main floor, and introduced me to the lovely Carly Truss, Canoe Inc's PR maven for both events. Armed with my guidance info and a kind complimentary bag full of goodies, I hit the ground running with a keen eye on all, and an open mind about a brand completely unfamiliar to me.

My first stop of the day, Pleaser USA, Inc., lived up to their name, by being as gracious with a non-buyer as their collections were traffic-stopping. Clearly happy to introduce a newcomer to their label's unique style and background; they were a brand who understood the concept of public perception, and basic common courtesy - in stark contrast to the representative of my next stop. EXHIBITORS TAKE NOTE: When you send someone out to act on behalf of your brand, please ensure they fully understand that their rudeness, becomes that of your label; thus if they cannot leave their egotistical ignorance at home, then for the sake of your company's name and reputation YOU, should leave THEM behind.

A label in SORE need of new Public Representation...

In almost 14 years of event experience - on both sides of the fence - never once have I encountered anyone as rude as the representative for fashion label, One Direction.

At this point I should set the scene by explaining my standard procedure for event photography. Before I even lift my lens, I will always approach a brand representative and explain that I am reviewing the event, then request permission to photograph their stand and products for inclusion, before swapping contact information, so that the company can be sure of my legitimacy, and research me on the spot, if they so wish. Most are willing, for the simple, obvious common sense in the offer - they are receiving free publicity, from a voice with an audience of prospective buyers who may be unfamiliar with them. It really doesn't take Einstein to deduce that free marketing works entirely in the exhibitor's favour in most cases - except in ones like this, where arrogant behaviour only gets you named and shamed.

The pompous individual - old enough, but not smart enough to have known better - considered me with all the disdain he could muster, before replying: "No, you cannot photograph our stand - that's for Press only." Now usually, if any confusion remains after the procedure outlined above, then all that's required is higher placement of my Press pass for the oversight to be rectified - but not this time. In the most condescending manner possible, I was told: "You are NOT Press - what magazine are you with?" Before I could finish educating the ignoramus on what a 'blog' is, and the difference between online and print, I was rudely (and literally) 'shooed' off the stand altogether! To be clear, Suzy Menkes I am not, and never would, claim to be - my delusions of grandeur are restricted to the twilight hours of sleepy time only, but make no mistake: open disrespect, or anything remotely akin to that kind of behaviour is entirely unacceptable -  whether you are dealing with a representative of the media, or your regular Joe Public. Especially when your company shares its name with the group named the 'Official Biggest Boyband on the Planet' who also just happen to be 2012's 6th highest searched for celebrity in the world. The shocking encounter has now become a cautionary tale used as cocktail banter; with every single person I tell, reacting with utter disbelief that in this increasingly digital age, anyone could be so lacking in their knowledge of blogs, and what a simple mention, never mind an endorsement from one, can do for your brand - and that's before we even talked the importance of manners! Silly, silly goose.

Dead Threads

Refusing to waste another moment on the unworthy, I made my way to Dead Threads directly opposite, where I encountered the first of many staff with a brain firmly rooted in the 21st century. Drawn to their cuffs and bags, they were an interesting label to kick off my foray into alternative fashion. 

These guys had you in search of an Oliver Twist to your Nancy...

Fashion label Hell Bunny had you feeling like the welcome escapee from a Dickensian novel, on a dark, eerily foggy night. Or at the very least, an auditionee for Stylish Jack The Ripper Victim #1. Another friendly, welcoming team scattered across the large stand, only too happy to demonstrate a level of hospitality that could have taught more than a few vendors a thing or two.

Alchemy 1977 were next. Drawn to the stand by their spectacular decoration, it was clear that these guys took the dressing of their stand more seriously than any vendor I believe I have seen, at any event this year. Delving way beyond my personal comfort zone where Gothic Art is concerned; I was literally entranced by the care they had taken in their presentation, leaving me powerless to do anything but try to capture what I was seeing in the event's photo album, which you will find in the usual home of all things visual in the ESP Ltd. social media catalogue (below).

Alchemy Gothic 1977

The lovely young lady representing Kreepsville was as lovely as her merchandise was creepy - Halloween lovers, these guys are definitely the right call for your younger set, who love to scare, and be scared. Trick or Treaters, they're not called the 'Home of the Original Scare Wear' for nothing - they sent me in search of the pink frilly styles I've repelled since birth. Pink, Yes, Frills, NO. At least not until now...

The Contortionist was the only live act I caught during my visit. Disappointed not to be able to see more of the talent I had only heard whisper of, due to there being no printed timetable - I made a beeline for the only person in the immediate vicinity, that I figured had to be 'in' on the secret. Except even Mr Sound Man had no official schedule to work from; I was simply advised to keep returning to the stage "around the top of the hour...". If there was going to be only one show I could catch though, then I'm definitely glad this one was it...

Leaving the stage area more confused about general anatomy than I ever was in secondary school, I wandered into another fashion zone where, although still alternative, the 1940s and 50s styles were clearly for a softer palette than the hardcore trends I had seen thus far. Manchester natives Vanity Project (made by Limb) were full of festive tea party dresses covered in unusual prints, that included vinyl records and original movie theatre popcorn bags and more; while Collectif - one of the main event sponsors - brought the most glamorous of vintage eras back in the most authentic of fashions. Each member of staff was decked out in beautiful finery to the nines, and their very gracious champagne hour offered the opportunity to be served the fizzy stuff from a (short-lived) fountain of flutes (there may have been a small 'avalanche moment', but thankfully no clothing was damaged in the fall); while browsing and getting to know the staff behind the brand. Definitely one of my highlights of the day (and not just for the bubbly)!

I had spotted Loungefly a month earlier at Pure34 London. Unfortunately, they belonged to the multitude that I didn't get a moment to stop and properly take in, and so I made the most of this serendipitous chance. Even if I hadn't enjoyed getting up close and personal with the biggest Hello Kitty collection I've ever seen on British soil; comparing and contrasting the two events with an insider made this stop another highlight.

Loungefly Loves Hello Kitty (brand)

The next stand to stop me in my tracks was every Girl's dream, but every Good Girl's nightmare. Hades UK were the shoe brand inspired by steampunk, that caused a literal mental romance in my consciousness, between footwear and the best of H. G. Wells...

Steampunk Love...

These beautiful creations so enamoured me, that I managed to completely block out an unholy name that gave me the heebie jeebies (technical term). Every time I began to remember it, I caught sight of another design that blinded the label, until I saw nothing but steam-powered time machines on my feet, and historical excursions that Thomas Cook couldn't package in my mind. Dear Readers, I can but only helplessly admit that I was in love, and pray I will neither be demonically possessed, nor struck down where I type.

Instruments of Tortur(ous Pleasure)...

Tearing myself away from a collection seemingly intent on bringing my inner Heathen to the forefront; my next stop was on the one hand, a perfect distraction, but on the other, a painful reminder of the all-consuming joys that completing a wardrobe with the previous works of (evil) art, could bring. With Burleska, came proof that a young girl's fantasy could indeed come true - I could really be Xena Warrior Princess...in wardrobe at least (minus the frisbee thingy, unless we're talking keyrings that even I could never lose). There was even a 'Gorgeous Gabrielle' option for the more faint of heart.

Xena Eat Your Heart Out...

Girly Gabrielle...both by Burleska

The sweet, wholesome innocence of Innocent World brought me back to the present, by showing me just how far apart the goalposts are, when it comes to alternative fashion in the everyday sense. This was a brand that would not have been out of place at Hyper Japan - in fact, the brands would be a perfect fit; and yet they were equally at home in their current surroundings, a fact that I found quite amazing.

The stand that took the prize for the longest name, also took a bigger one for most intricate works of artistic adornment in the building. Once you got over the name, Bertoldini Giuliana Di Benetti Alessio (The Original Atelier) and his breathtaking works mesmerised you. Whether accessories, headpieces or jewellery, there was not a piece on display, that didn't command your attention, or make you long for a gilded invitation to a costume ball...

Bertoldini Giuliana headpieces

Every piece told a story, and all you would need to do, was look closely at one for a matter of seconds, before a voice in your head began reciting: "Once, upon a time...".

Bertoldini Giuliana Headpiece

Completely in another world; opposite the longest brand label name in the world, was a sci-fi fan's dream, as Legend Stuff provided comfortable fashion options for the real-life Big Bang Theory fan. Heralding every Superhero you could imagine on clothing, even Yours Truly flashed back to a few of my childhood favourites - even greater proof of the audience that an event like this can reach.

Manic Panic dressed up in one of the best things about the 80s...

Manic Panic were my favourite cosmetic stop of the day, where I chatted away with the lovely Meghan Gearino, visiting from the brand's flagship in Ye Olde US of A. Talking me through some of the novelty products available - my personal favourite being the cassette tape 'Pretty In Punk' eyeshadow palettes - be sure to keep an eye out on your favourite blog for more in-depth info on the label coming soon...

As I had somehow managed to bump into a different member of Prong Jewellery staff at several turns, from the moment I arrived at the venue, it seemed only logical to stop at their stand once I came across it. It was the awesomely beautiful handmade pieces on display at House of Hirudinea's temporary home for the next three days, that held my attention captive. Though the stand was the most modest I had seen all day; the obvious care and attention to detail that went into each piece of clothing, jewellery, and accessory, was enough to outdo some of their most elaborate competitors.

Completing the rounds at a few more of the ground floor exhibitions, I spent the final 40 minutes of the day taking in the The LEdge on the Gallery floor above (with time to spare). Taken aback at how few stands were exhibiting on the upper level, in contrast with all that was going on below, never mind in the exact same spot a month earlier, when so many stands filled the level that there seemed to be little room for visitors, I first visited the skateboard park that had been erected for the younger alternative crowd. After watching the goings on for a short while, it didn't take long to wander through the spaces occupied by skateboard and scooter labels Maui, Osprey and UrbanBeach-Surf.

Who knew tents could be this FANTASTIC? Not Me!

FieldCandy were a fitting end to the day, as I spoke with an excellent group of brand representatives who did their label so proud, that I almost forgot my hatred of all things muddy, long enough to consider copping a gorgeous tent - clearly caught up in the shock of two words that I never thought could go hand-in-hand. The closing bells were enough to save a fleeting reverie from becoming a reality, and off I set, homeward-bound; leaving Olympia's National Hall better educated than when I arrived. 

I cannot say that the underlying message of The LEdge committed itself to my memory, but London Edge 2013 most certainly did, in more ways than one. Through the event, I learned of the countless degrees involved in Alternative Fashion. Unlike anything I have encountered at any of the events I have covered this year, Alternative Fashion is unbound and free. The fact that so many different aspects and style types, who have nothing to do with the other individually, can coexist so happily under one roof prove, that London Edge is a summit with a welcome mat for any, and everyone who repels the restraints that contemporary fashion conforms to.

Catch the next London Edge / The LEdge outing in February 2014. Visit the website now and connect with their Social Media Catalogue for everything you need to know about getting involved...

Facebook / Twitter / YouTube

For the the day in pictures, visit the Event Photo Album on the ESP Ltd. Facebook Page, and connect with ESP by Liking the page and sharing the photos.

If you were at either event and want to share your thoughts, your regular stage is set, and awaits you in the Comments Box below...

Until the next!
ES ;)

#ESPspotlight REVIEW: 'BAGGAGE CLAIM' (OCTOBER 2013)

Well the second undeniable fact to remember about Baggage Claim, is that Paula Patton must be one hell of an American Football player. Some of the comedic dashes that she does within this film, seem like they could easily double as an audition reel for some billion-dollar team.

Sadly, the first, which is really impossible to ignore, is that the latest Fox Searchlight rom-com is truly, tragically, terrible. Like the fruitless 'Big Announcement' at the film's pivotal moment, or just one of those bazookas Jill Scott defiantly squashes into her stewardess' uniform; the project as a whole, is purely eye-candy - made up of the fluffiest cotton, and full of hot air. A regular reader might recall how much I was looking forward to an A-typical wedding film. FAn of all things 'festive' as I am, the cheese and fruit fest that is wedding season, has well and truly rotted me to my core, which is precisely why the premise of this film gave me hope, for an enjoyable take on the sufferings of the last few months. Like Jill's bountiful mounds, the ambrosia cups overfloweth with all of the celebrity star power on the bill. Paula 'Mrs Thicke (in all the right places)' Patton, led a cast that includes her hubby's 'Real Husbands of Hollywood' co-star, Boris Kodjoe in an early tryst - making for what must have been one very awkward water cooler conversation on the RHOH set. The caramel cutie (Boris, not Paula - although she's also very pretty) leads a cast of male stars auditioning for the role of 'future husband that her Mother (the legendary Jenifer Lewis) will approve of', at her baby sister's (Lauren London) engagement dinner. The literal 'age old Spinster story' that we all know and detest - still with me?

Essentially, the story gives our heroine 30 days to find a suitor that will save public face in front of her overbearing Mother, family, and friends. Since she cannot guarantee that she will meet a new man, worthy of the task in that time period; her best friends Adam Brody (The OC), and Jill Scott (Voluptuous Mound Owner, user of Vaseline, spectacular singer, who also acts really well) come up with the genius idea to 're-meet' an old one, and change the (her) behaviour that broke them up in the first place. Naturally, the best means of her putting said plan into action, is to use her flight attendant occupation as the literal vehicle, and colleagues at pretty much every stop point within their airport, to alert her to where her exes are flying from, to, and when, so that she may engineer the perfect 'accidental meeting'.

Trey Songz not REALLY acting much..or at all.

Trey Songz and Tia Mowry make for a semi-entertaining first attempt, when the comedy of a story we've seen so many times, starts to wane. Songz does his best with the few one-liners one would expect of his realistic, unstretchable character; while Mowry reminds you why she and her twin made the successful transition from childhood stars to adult entertainers (not that kind). She does crazy - and funny - to perfection. Attempt #2; Taye Diggs does a wonderful job of pretentious, overbearing, control freak well, giving a solid, entertaining performance. The Tiger Woods reference got me giggling, and his inappropriate chauvinism was stellar - by his final scene, the buffoonery he played up so well had you nostalgic for a little bit of Carlton - sweater vests, bow ties, and oh so smooth moves to a Tom Jones soundtrack...

I can't pretend I've ever understood the pull of Djimon Hounsou; and his turn as the rich and dashing, debonair option, come to sweep Patton off her feet, did nothing at all to shed any light. I actually gave serious thought to doing a crossword throughout his entire section of the film - and I don't mean answering one in today's paper. I started creating a crossword puzzle. From scratch. In my mind. The entire time he was onscreen. Hey, as long as you get the appeal, there's no judgment here, Kimora Dear... Derek Luke, the affable boy next door, and her best friend for quarter of a decade is the story's hero - and it's a part he plays well. The Eternal Hero, Luke is a combination of the Power of Three - Mr Best Friend, Mr Romantic, and Mr Pick You Up at 2 in the Morning, No Questions Asked, When You're Stranded After A Hairbrained Scheme Goes Awry. That's right folks - he's The Dream.

Derek Luke - AKA Mr Reliable, Responsible and Romantic...

Affion Crockett can't help but be hilarious, so long as he's doing that breathing thing; throw in a metal detector, some fake, 70s pornstar facial hair, and the man has all the ingredients he needs to split your sides. LaLa Anthony didn't really get the chance to stretch her acting skills from her now typical small-role pigeonhole. 

Unfortunately, Baggage Claim never delivered the expected level of funny that the heavyweight lineup promised, in David E. Talbert's latest Directorial offering. They had all the players, it worked perfectly on paper, but I'm sad to announce, the good movie that we thought we'd be receiving is Lost In Transit.

See Baggage Claim (if you really want to) in Vue Cinemas, out now... 2*.

ES ;)

All images courtesy of Fox Searchlight UK.