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Three Hot Stocks to Watch in December

3 Stocks That Are Rising and May Continue To Rise

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There has much volatility in the stock market in 2018. But in spite of this, the S&P 500 is only up to a little more than 3% this year. Though that does not mean that there have not been stocks that have soared. These 3 stocks, in particular, have more than doubled during 2018, and some believe that they may continue to rise:

1. Twillo (NYSE:TWLO)

Twillo is a cloud platform that lets software companies send and receive phone calls and text messages programmatically in their apps. The stock is up a whopping 300% for the year, and with good reason. Their API has become standard for developers of web and mobile apps. This year alone, the number of software developers using Twillo has increased by more than 30%.

One of only a dozen stocks to quadruple in value this year, Twillo saw its revenue rise nearly 70% in its latest quarterly earnings. This was far ahead of expectations, and many expect that — with the holiday season upon us — the company will be able to keep up its momentum and perhaps even exceed it.

2. SeaWorld Entertainment (NYSE:CVNA)

Seaworld is up an impressive 110% for the year. The venerable amusement park operator seems lightyears away from the 2013 documentary “Blackfish,” which made marine park operators punching bags for a variety of animal rights activists. While these activists have not completely gone away, customers have returned with a vengeance.

For the first time since the release of the film, both revenue and attendance are up at Seaworld, and they are up by considerable amounts. Attendance there is up nearly 10% for the year, outpacing other park operators, and revenue increases are even greater. Some analysts believe that this trend will continue in the near future. This is based on the fact that Seaworld’s competitors in the Southern California and Central Florida areas have been raising admission prices considerably. This will let SeaWorld do the same, especially as it is no longer feeling the heat from consumers it once felt.

3. New Age Beverages (NASDAQ:NBEV)

Rising 113% for the year, New Age Beverages has benefited from one of this year’s biggest investment trends: cannabis. The legalization of marijuana in various forms across the country has created lots of opportunities for aggressive companies. New Age Beverages began its sharp rise in September after it announced that it would introduce beverages that have been infused with cannabidiol (CBD).

At one time, the company’s stock had increased almost sixfold. While it has since lost about half of these gains, the company recently announced that it has acquired Morinda for $85 million. Morinda generates nearly $250 million in annual revenue, with its Tahitian Noni-Juice available in 60 countries around the world. Analysts think that the acquisition will help New Age Beverages expand its reach to new international markets. This along with the brand awareness the company received from its cannabis announcement could help New Age Beverages keep soaring.

10 Podcasts You Should Be Listening to as an Actor

As podcasts continue to skyrocket in popularity, more and more of these listening entertainment options are hitting the market space each month. The challenging part now is deciding which podcasts are worth the time and effort investment. As a busy actor, you might often feel pressed for time. Here are ten podcasts that actors should check out for both entertainment and informational purposes:

BROADWAY’S BACKBONE

Host Brad Bradley delves deep into the unsung heroes of any Broadway production by interviewing the ensemble cast, chorus members, and dancers that give life to any show.

HOLLYWOOD HUSTLE

With a purpose of inspiring its listeners, this podcast brings the struggles of those in the industry into focus through a series of interviews with those on their way up the career ladder.

THE YOUNG ACTOR’S GUIDE

Hosted by casting director and mom Dana Bowling, this informative podcast is ideal for parents and young kids looking for advice on navigating this often overwhelming yet exciting journey.

HOLLYWOOD CLOSE-UP

This empowering podcast focuses on providing practical advice and inspiration for creating your own career path in this complicated industry.

THEATER PEOPLE

Host Patrick Hinds uses his extensive podcast work experience to bring to light the extraordinary lives of Broadway performers. This show boasts a myriad of full-length interviews with a host of theater legends and Tony Award winners.

IN THE ENVELOPE

Focused on both the big screen and the Broadway stage, this podcast delivers a variety of interviews of some of the most famous names in the business. The inspirational edge will leave listeners feeling like they are not in this alone.

SOUND ADVICE

Hands-down the best podcast for those looking to break into the voiceover market, this show focuses on the current trends and instructional advice for the industry and how you can make the most of any opportunity.

LIVING THE DREAM

Tony-nominated actor Rory O’Malley hosts this light-hearted and funny show about how to keep your cool in this field. O’Malley brings in his acting industry friends to share insights and stories guaranteed to make you smile.

CINEMA AFTER DARK

With a focus on the independent film industry, this podcast looks at this often ignored subset of the field. Host Max Cole uses his expertise in independent filmmaking to bring to light stories from the industry in a way that connects with listeners.

THAT ONE AUDITION WITH ALYSHIA OCHSE

Producer and actress Alyshia Ochse interviews a bevy of Hollywood insiders who reveal their real-life audition stories. This candid and humorous podcast can be counted on to make you laugh while also giving you practical advice about making the most of any audition opportunity.

Logan Sekulow is a renowned producer and director.

7 Movies That Didn’t, But Should Have, Won an Oscar

7 Movies That Didn't, But Should Have, Won an Oscar

Many critically acclaimed films never won an Oscar in any category. Many of these same movies were also very popular with audiences as well. Here are 7 movies that never won an Oscar, but probably should have:

1. The Shawshank Redemption

This 1994 film based on a novella by Stephen King tells the story of a banker who is sent to prison for a murder that he did not commit. The film actually received 7 Oscar nominations, but it did not win any. Though it was eventually recognized by the National Film Registry as being a significant film.

2. Fight Club

This classic 1999 film was based on a critically acclaimed novel by Chuck Palahniuk. The movie, which is about a group of men trying to find purpose in their lives through extreme violence, was also popular with both critics and audiences. But it was only able to garner a single Oscar nomination for Best Sound Effects Editing, which it lost.

3. A Clockwork Orange

In 1971, this Stanley Kubrick film about a violent gang of youth living in a futuristic dystopia shocked audiences and critics alike, much as the novel by Anthony Burgess had years earlier. While the movie was a big success and gathered 4 Oscar nominations, it failed to win any of them. But it would remain a cult classic decades after its release.

4. Psycho

In 1960, well before there was a Freddy Krueger or a Jason Voorhees, there was Norman Bates. Based on a book, which in turn was based on a real-life killer, this movie singlehandedly created the slasher genre. It also was able to avoid the censors, who at the time placed strict controls on sex and violence in films. Though while it did get nominated for 4 Oscars, it won none of them.

5. Wolf of Wall Street

This 2013 Martin Scorsese film starring Leonardo DiCaprio is based on the true story of stockbroker Jordan Belfort, and it chronicles corruption and deceit in the financial industry. The movie was a huge commercial success, and it was popular with critics as well. But it was not as popular with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. While they gave the film 5 Oscar nominations, it did not win any.

6. The Prestige

Based on a 1995 novel by Christopher Priest, this 2006 film told the story of two competing magicians, played by Christian Bale and Hugh Jackman. Like other movies in this list, it was popular with both critics and moviegoers. But it only got 2 Oscar nominations, and it did not win either one.

7. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

This 1986 teen classic starring Matthew Broderick won the hearts of a diverse group of fans that included both Kurt Cobain and former Vice President Dan Quayle. It was also popular with critics. But not only did it not win any Oscars, but it was also not even nominated for one.

Logan Sekulow is a renowned producer and director.

15 Famous Actors Who Turned Down Superhero Roles

1. Jon Hamm as Green Lantern

Jon Hamm is a huge fan of superhero movies but bluntly passed on the opportunity to portray Green Lantern in the 2011 film, because he was disappointed with the direction in which the studios were taking them.

2. Tom Cruise as Iron Man

Tom Cruise has praised Robert Downey Jr’s portrayal of Iron Man, saying he was the perfect match for the role of Tony Stark and despite persistent rumors, he was never close to obtaining the part.

3. Matt Damon as Daredevil

Childhood pals Ben Affleck and Matt Damon were both eager for a shot at the main role in “Daredevil.” Damon ultimately ended up passing after getting a look at the subpar script.

4. Kate Beckinsale as Wonder Woman

Although Beckinsale was considered for the role of Diana Prince in “Wonder Woman,” she ultimately declined. She delicately implied the script was lacking and stated her days of wearing skin tight costumes are at an end.

5. Pierce Brosnan as Batman

Before he was enjoying a shaken martini as Bond, Brosnan was offered the role of Batman in the Tim Burton franchise. He mistakenly thought the movie would be a cheesy superhero flick and wanted to take on more serious films.

6. Emily Blunt as Black Widow

This British star regrets having to turn down the part of Black Widow in 2009. She had already committed to “Gulliver’s Travels” with Jack Black.

7. Josh Hartnett as Spider-Man

Early in his career, Hartnett was offered the role of Spider-man. He turned it down due to fear that he would be typecast as a superhero character.

8. Amandla Stenberg as Shuri

Shuri, Princess of Wakanda is a prime role from “Black Panther” turned down by Stenberg after much thought. She felt her skin was too light for the role, and it would detract from the film.

9. Brie Larson as Captain Marvel

Not eager for the limelight this role would bring, Larson turned down the offer to be Captain Marvel in the 2015 film “Avengers: Age of Ultron.” She later had a change of heart and will play the part in 2019.

10. Paul Newman as Lex Luthor

Newman was in good company when he refused a four million dollar offer to play Lex Luthor in the 1978 “Superman” film. Al Pacino, Burt Reynolds and Robert Redford also declined to be in the film.

11. Leonardo DiCaprio as Spider-Man

While DiCaprio does not think the part of Spider-Man would have impacted the trajectory of his career, he felt he was not yet ready to take on the role when it was offered to him by James Cameron.

12. Jessica Chastain as The Wasp

Chastain was very interested in becoming part of a superhero franchise, but when she was offered the role of The Wasp, the amount of screen time was not enough for her.

13. Heath Ledger as Batman

Though Ledger did appear as The Joker in the “Batman” sequel, he originally was not compelled enough by the series to accept the role of Batman.

14. Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Star-Lord

Gordon-Levitt would later regret turning down the part of Star-Lord to appear in the unsuccessful “Sin City: A Dame to Kill For.”

15. Will Smith as Superman

The 2006 film, “Superman Returns” almost featured Smith in the starring role. He turned it down because he feared fans would be upset at a Superman with darker skin.

Logan Sekulow is a renowned producer and director.

The 10 Best Thanksgiving Movies of All Time

Thanksgiving is one of the most enjoyed holidays in the United States. Along with the tradition of these holidays comes a variety of great Thanksgiving-themed movies. There are ten in particular that continue to be favorite’s decades after they were released.

Addams Family Values

The Addams Family is one of the most iconic fictional television families. In this move, the family tries to cope with the unique Thanksgiving holiday in their picturesque suburban. They also put their own spin on the big day.

The Big Chill

This melodramatic film shows a group of college friends that are gathering together following the funeral of one of their own. It takes place around the Thanksgiving holiday, which uses the holiday as the backdrop.

Planes Trains and Automobiles

This is a classic comedy movie starring Steve Martin and John Candy. It features the two men playing polar opposite characters that find themselves stranded from home during the holidays. The two men then go through a hilarious trip as they try to make their way home for the holidays.

Home for the Holidays

In this film, you will get to see a great cast that includes Jodie Foster and Robert Downey Jr. It showcases has a family can truly come together for the Thanksgiving holiday and enjoy spending time together even after some difficult times in their past.

Charlie Brown Thanksgiving

One of the most classic children’s movies of all time is Charlie Brown Thanksgiving. In Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, the title character and his friends learn all about the history of the holiday and even start their own traditions.

Beethoven

This is a Thanksgiving movie staple that is perfect for families. In this movie, a family that feels like they are being torn apart adopt a new dog, which helps to bring them back together. It is full of laughter and is a feel-good movie for anyone with young children.

Avalon

Family gathering is one of the best parts of getting together for Thanksgiving. In Avalon, a family gathers at their New York home to celebrate the holiday. However, there is an incredible amount of suspense and drama as the family deals with their past together.

Scent of a Woman

This award-nominated movie features Al Pacino and Robert DeNiro. In the film, the two famous actors put on a performance of a lifetime. This takes place during the start of the holiday season with Thanksgiving as a backdrop.

Dutch

This movie stars Ed O’Neil who is tasked by his new girlfriend with brining her teenage son home from prep school for the Thanksgiving holiday. In this film, you get to watch as the two actors start out at odds with one another. However, after a great adventure they soon grow much closer.

The New World

This film stars Colin Farrell as Captain John Smith. It also shows the first few years in which the Pilgrims and Native Americans meet one another. It also shows the first ever Thanksgiving holiday between the two groups of people.

Logan Sekulow is a successful producer and director known for relaunching the popular studio known as Laugh-O-Gram studios.

The Top 3 Non-Horror Horror Movies of All Time

Movies do not necessarily have to be described as a horror movie in order to frighten viewers in some way or another. Some elements of a dramatic movie can be so disturbing in some manner that they can be unsettling to viewers. Note that this is not necessarily a bad thing, but rather an intended consequence of the filmmaker who sets out to shock. Here are three of the top non-horror horror movies.

Melancholia

Melancholia starts off with disturbing imagery about the dangerous state of the world and “progresses” from there. The movie is literally about the impending end of the world. This looming catastrophe is hanging over your head the entire movie, and the end promises to be fiery and violent. Viewers live with that knowledge so long as they are watching. Even if there are no overt horror scenes, the end of the world is certainly a disturbing matter. The combination of the foreboding images and the haunting score is enough to profoundly impact the viewer. Melancholia is both an overt expression of impending destruction as well as a subtle examination of a steep descent into depression. The entire movie is an exercise in waiting for a violent end, knowing all along that it is on the way.

No Country For Old Men

The entirety of this film will leave viewers literally in a state of shock. The level of depraved violence in the movie is enough to unsettle even the most hardened viewer. The villain, Anton Chigurh, is so convincingly evil that he is likely to give viewers nightmares for a long time to come after watching this movie. The film manages to look eerie, even during broad daylight. There are numerous scenes in the movie that are iconic in how disturbing they truly are. If you are faint of heart, this movie is most definitely not for you. However, the Coen Brothers are so brilliant at what they do, that you will likely not be able to take your eyes off of it for the entire movie.

Titus

Any movie in which Anthony Hopkins plays the titular villain will likely leave viewers shaking, even if this was an adaptation of a work by Shakespeare. Hopkins’ portrayal of the Roman general is chilling. This movie will not leave it to the viewer’s imagination exactly how evil mankind can be at its worst. Titus is a disturbingly violent character who is intricately played by Hopkins. This portrayal of Titus will most definitely shock audiences. Revenge tragedies are terrifying in general, but the particular cinematography and images used in this movie make it all the more so. The blood and gore factors of this drama are so off the charts, that this movie rivals any horror film.

Logan Sekulow is a renowned producer and director.

The 10 Best Kids Movies of All Time

As the weather begins to cool and kids everywhere begin their retreat inside, it is a good idea to have a list of recommended movies for children on hand. Here are ten of the most beloved movies sure to please any child:

THE WIZARD OF OZ

This classic movie stars Judy Garland as Dorothy Gale, a girl from Kansas who finds herself in the magical land of Oz after being swept up in a tornado. Along her journey, Dorothy makes many friends and has quite the adventure. But in the end, the pull of home is too strong in this endearing story.

E.T

This Steven Speilberg flick teaches kids about the power of empathy and the connections that form if you open your heart to others. Although this movie might be slightly frightening to young children, people of all ages will feel their heartstrings tugged as the story comes to a climatic and emotional end.

FINDING NEMO

Pixar does it again in this inspiring story of a dad going to the ends of the earth to find his cherished son, Nemo.

MARY POPPINS

Your kids will be singing along in this foot-stomping adventure through the streets of London. The sequel is due out soon so this is a perfect time to introduce your kids to the magic of Mary Poppins and her friends.

THE PRINCESS BRIDE

People of all ages will delight in this classic tale of love and magic. Boys and girls will both appreciate the romance, sword fights, and miracles detailed in this fantastical story.

THE HARRY POTTER SERIES

Like “The Princess Bride”, these movies offer something for kids of all ages and genders. The witchcraft and wizardry draw viewers into a magical world of mystery and fun. As a bonus, the movies might inspire your children to delve into the equally amazing series of books.

GHOSTBUSTERS

Who ya gonna call? Dial up this movie for a family-friendly adventure guaranteed to make your kids howl with laughter. Parents will also enjoy taking the stroll down the memory lane of this classic film.

COCO

Disney’s latest family movie is the ideal story to teach children about the importance of family and honoring your heritage. Rich in color and lyrical music, this beautiful movie will make you want to hug your children tighter as you appreciate the strong bond of family connection.

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

This iconic Disney movie represents some of the best features of filmmaking during its time. Although still in its infancy, the innovative CGI technology shines through while the classic music weaves a story that is truly a tale as old as time.

SLEEPING BEAUTY

This classic fairytale is still a winner after all of these years. The bursting color, romance, and magic of this story will give everyone a happily ever after.

The only thing you need now is a big bowl of popcorn!

Logan Sekulow’s Laugh-O-Gram Studios is a media brand that creates unique forms of entertainment and educational materials.

7 Must-Read Books For Actors

Whether you are already an established actor, an actor looking to make a name for themselves in the industry, or just interested in the opinion of other actors, there are several books out there that would behoove you to read. The backgrounds of these books are varied and range in various aspects so there is sure to be something out there for anyone searching. From director to actor, and playwright to teacher, these are books that are sure to have something for everyone looking to hone in on their craft.

1. A Life in Parts

This autobiography by Bryan Cranston essentially acts as a muse and inspiration for the reader. If you are looking to build your career, gain skills to becoming a better actor, and understand the all-around works of acting in general, than this book is for you.

2. An Actor Prepares

This popular book by Constantin Stanislavski is one of the best, known training books for an actor in the world. This is a book published in the mid-1930s that helps lay the groundwork and fundamentals of acting from every standpoint. You are taught the ways of giving a performance that comes off as real and authentic while also understanding how to prepare for the acting world. It is not enough to just act but to also have the mindset of acting. An Actor Prepares helps with that and so much more.

3. The Actor and the Target

This guide by Declan Donnellan speaks from the perspective of a director. It has a sense of practicality and authenticity not normally found from the director’s perspective so it would definitely behoove someone wanting to see that perspective.

4. The Golden Rules of Acting

This book by Andy Nyman conveys a tale of an actor trying to make it in the world and how to best accomplish that. It is about being successful and working hard to attain that dream by any means necessary.

5. Audition

What is interesting about this book is it is by a casting director, Michael Shurtleff Michael Shurtleff has worked on many different plays that most of us have heard of and talks of the atmosphere between his role and that of the actors. It is an interesting spin that many will find interesting and useful.

6. Respect for Acting

This book is a classic that has been around for over 40 years. Written by Uta Hagen, this book gives the perspective of an acting teacher who helps actors develop their craft and understand what is expected of them in the industry.

7. Actions: the Ator’s Thesaurus

This is an interesting book on the rehearsal by Marina Caldarone that goes into the science and technique of what is expected when rehearsing for a role. You are given action words and other verbiage to help with the layout of a rehearsal room and how to nail it the first time around.

Logan Sekulow is a renowned producer and director.

Why It’s Important For Actors to Think On Their Feet

Why It's Important For Actors to Think On Their Feet

“I got your back.”

This phrase has been repeated for years before scenes begin, curtains rise, and audiences hush. It’s a reminder that no matter what happens, even if there’s jitters or someone forgets a line, others will do their best to help keep the story on track.

That’s the power of thinking on your feet or improvisation.

To many actors, this is a powerful creative tool. A way to add personal elements to a story that would otherwise be unseen. Elements that simply cannot be communicated in a script in every detail. In other words, it adds a more imperfect, human touch.

This is why improvisation is so vital to a performance, or to any piece of art. Mistakes will no doubt be made, but if you have a good actor or team, they can literally think their way out of it in real time. They can save the show.

The secret is not to move forward, but backward.

Instead of trying to decide all these details in your head and create a whole world around yourself, start small. Who are you, and who is she? Where are we? What are we trying to accomplish? By asking little questions and playing off of the responses to these questions, actors can create worlds they never knew existed.

In fact, you may be surprised how many famous scenes in movies were actually improvised. Take a look at the sword vs. gun scene in Raiders of the Lost Ark. Initially, that scene was supposed to be an elaborate sword and whip fight, but due to Harrison Ford getting food poisoning, he quickly pulled his revolver on the villain instead. Some believe this made Indy even more of a rebel than he was before and benefited the scene.

Or the classic line “You talkin’ to me?,” found in Robert De Niro’s performance in Taxi Driver. So memorable and iconic, and very much improvised.

That’s not to say that it’s without effort. While a majority of acting requires the memorization of lines to tell a story, improvisation requires something different: adaptability, creativity, and steady nerves. This is the case whether the actor is working on a blockbuster movie scene with endless retakes or a stage play in front of a crowd of people. This is because directors don’t always stick to the script.

“There are certain times when a whole scene could get added,” says RJ Cyler who co-stars in White Boy Rick alongside Matthew McConaughey. “You need to know it in 30 minutes as if you’ve been rehearsing it for 2 years.”

If this sounds like a challenge, you’d be right.

It goes beyond that though, it’s a war. A battle to meet together and perform a clear vision of the story, true to its original form and spirit. All are fighting to bring their art to life.

This is because, as with any piece of art, the beauty lies in the imperfections.

Logan Sekulow is a successful producer and director. He is known for relaunching the popular studio known as Laugh-O-Gram studios.

The 10 Best Superhero Movies of All Time

With the ever increasing slew of superhero films hitting the big screen, there of course needs to be a must-watch list! Here’s a list of the top ten superhero films of all time! This list, is of course, subject to personal preference, and internet fisticuffs are all but expected.

Number 10: Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice

Let’s be honest, compared to everything else this movie is up here on the list as kind of a pity vote. Do better DC, Marvel is totally trashing you in the theaters.

Number 9: Wonder Woman

Doing better DC. Of all the DC Extended Universe, Wonder Woman is easily the strongest showing to date. It’s honestly just plain better than Justice League.

Number 8: Guardians of the Galaxy

If you wanted to bust a gut laughing at the theaters, this is a movie you can watch and have a good time with just about anyone. The dialogue is great, the humor is superb, and the characters, marvelous.

Number 7: Iron Man

Arguably the Marvel film that really kick-started the entire MCU, Robert Downey Jr.’s portrayal of Tony Stark fits like a suit of perfectly cave-forged powered armor. Cool, classy, and with just that little bit of over the top snark.

Number 6: X-Men Apocalypse

One thing Fox got over Disney? Quicksilver.

Be it this movie or the prequel, Quicksilver’s scenes are possibly the coolest superhero moments ever.

Number 5: Logan

There’s just something about Logan that really hits home after all of Hugh Jackman’s time on the big screen as Wolverine.

He’s old.

He’s tired.

But he’s still got that little bit of juice left and a whole lot of willpower to do the right thing. A more satisfying conclusion to a beloved character’s story couldn’t be asked for.

Number 4: Avengers: Infinity War

It was a hell of a ride watching nearly all of the Marvel heroes show up on the same screen. Sadly this means character development takes a back-burner, and a lot of scenes aren’t as awesome as they could’ve been.

Knowing the movie has a second part doesn’t help matters much either.

Number 3: Spider-Man Homecoming

Without a doubt, this is the best Spider-Man film to come out after the original Raimi trilogy and the Amazing Spider-Man reboot. While Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield always felt too old to play as a young Peter Parker, Tom Holland absolutely nails the role with a splendid breath of fresh air. Not only is the film packed with action and Spidey humor, Holland’s performance is both believable and true the character’s roots.

Number 2: Deadpool

Who says you can’t have a successful rated R superhero movie? Although arguably more an anti-hero than a do-gooder caped crusader, Ryan Reynolds as Deadpool is absolutely hilarious. We don’t talk about his original appearance in the Wolverine films, however. Deadpool makes enough jokes about that on his own.

Number 1: The Dark Knight

It’s been a little over ten years since Christopher Nolan’s second Batman film released in theaters and made everyone lose their minds. This is one of those movies where the villain outshines the hero, and boy does Heath Ledger’s Joker deliver. There is literally nothing bad that can be said about this film.

Logan Sekulow is a renowned producer and director.