5 / 12 / 06

AT THE MOVIES

POSEIDON

Second rate actors struggle with a third rate script in a 'disaster' movie which really lives up to that description. When the audience is laughing out loud at a suspense film, it's never good for the movie's prospects and this cheesy blockbuster is sunk early.

It's not a patch on the 1972 original, which is best remembered for Shelley Winters' fat old lady making a brave but futile effort at survival. Her character is replaced in this soggy remake by three sexy babes who look hot when dripping wet. Awful.
PG-13


AN AMERICAN HAUNTING

Here's something unusual - a horror film which isn't at all scary. The poltergeist terrifying a Tennessee teenager does little more than rattle some window frames, take the covers off the bed and slap her on the face a couple of times.

It takes more than that to spook hardened modern movie audiences. Donald Sutherland - as the doting dad - is far too good for this garbage but nevertheless commits to his performance like he's acting Shakespeare.
PG-13

HARD CANDY

This indie flick should be required viewing for all pedophiles. A sparse cast that delivers a sickening punch-right to the groin. Sex offenders beware, your next internet victim might not be what you were trolling for. A criminal never knows how or where they will be brought to justice. Ellen Page gets my vote for best actress.
Psychotically good!
R

FOOD

Fabriocini’s

Classic Italian fare in a comfortable setting, Fabriocini’s is an easy-going spot for dinner with friends. Pizza, Pasta, and a host of daily specials keep this place interesting. The whole grain pasta with escarole and pine nuts was delicious-despite the very healthy sounding”whole grain” part. The steak salad was among the best I have had lately-strips of tender steak with feta and European lettuce. I was hoping to start with the burata, but apparently it is so delicious that the restaurant can’t keep it in stock. The owner has a secret cheese maker stashed away in Italy and imports the creamy stuff in small amounts.Vinny Fabriocini himself greets you at door. Good food with a smile.

Fabriocini’s- 2960 Beverly Glen Circle. 310-475-7404

Lincoln

Southern flare in a hip setting, chef Jack Melson brings flavor and fullness to LA. With hearty steaks and sides of creamy mac- n- cheese, you’ll finally feel like you’ve had enough to eat. Nice wine list, with Sunday and Monday 1/2 off. Definitely an incentive for a wino like me(good wine that is). Dessert was so delicious, I was almost embarrassed to polish it off. My friend wanted to know if I was going to pick the crumbs off the side. A giant peanut butter& chocolate cookie cooked in a skillet and brought hot to the table topped with ice cream.
Truly decadent, and manager Meghan Cloney keeps everyone on their toes. Jazz bands, wine and scotch tastings monthly, and a happening bar scene on weekends.*

Lincoln- 2460 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica 310-828-3304

EVENTS

Walk for the Underdog!

Sponsored by PetSmart, the annual “Walk for the Underdog” took place last Sunday at the La Brea Tar Pits. Dozens of local rescue groups participated in raising funds for homeless animals. Many thanks to all of the businesses that participated and donated, including Dick Van Patten’s company “Eatables for Dogs”. The canned meals concocted by the well know actor looked better than most human food. Amazing choices too-Chinese Take out w/ Sauce, Dumplins’ with Gravy,Irish Stew, and Hobo Chili. This world has really gone to the dogs!

Nuts for Mutts! A New Leash on Life Party!

My dachshund Lucy has been quite the party animal lately. After the charity walk, we headed over to The Beverly Hills Mutt Club for a catered lunch with our canine friends. Lucy picked up some bling to wear around the house, all made by jewelry designer Ann Mitchell Avery of Chi Designs. Ann specializes in the neck ware needs of upscale hounds. I was also pleasantly surprised to find a car seat that actually fit in my sports car. Nancy Klein from Animals Matter has designed pet safety seats for dogs on the run. Apparently her products are being coveted by Porsche and Bentley customers for both good looks and functionality. Mutt Club owners Celena and Sandy also held a raffle to raise money for “A New Leash on Life”, another wonderful group that helps shelter pets to be adopted. Mutt Club parties aren’t just about lucky dogs, but about finding ways to help
homeless pups a safe, loving home.

Beverly Hills Mutt Club - 9873 Santa Monica Blvd,
Beverly Hills. 310-248-877

Starting Site: Walk for the Underdog	Celena, Nancy, Sandy Animals Matter Inc.
Underdog, Lucy and Friends	Debbie Clark, Shaun Grant Petsmart Volunteers
Ann Mitchel Avery from CHI Designs