Convicted federal Internet movie pirate found dead in his cell in Los Angeles. Russell William Sprague, 52, was the Chicago man who pleaded guilty in April to one count of copyright infringement for duplicating 134 screener movies originally sent to members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences …

At least that’s what I think it should be called, but no one asked me. The Queen has approved the award of a new medal, The Queen’s Medal for Music, the purpose of which is to “raise the general profile of music within the UK, and to reward individuals who …

In papers to be filed today, an artist’s group is backing file sharing service Grokster against the entertainment industry in a critical copyright case before the Supreme Court, scheduled to begin March 29. Background On December 10, 2004 the Supreme Court agreed to hear the entertainment industry’s case against two …

This administration is much more deft, flexible, and practical than its many detractors seem capable of conceptualizing, let alone admitting. First, the “transform the Middle East” via the door of Iraq is yielding — it seems to me — undeniable positive results: the people of Lebanon just peacefully overthrew their …

I put in some serious time yesterday and last night communing with the Oscar groove, letting the E! pregame show wash over me in all its splendorous vacuity as various overdressed hobnobbers interviewed Oscar-related designers, chefs, jewelers, observers and hangers-on. I learned: “You should wear the dress, the dress shouldn’t …

Hollywood’s biggest day is here. Our news, previews and predictions leading up to the Oscars, as well as coverage of the event itself and aftermath is all gathered right here. You are wise beyond reason to join us. “For those of us who have loved movies our entire lives and …

The ailing, 84 year-old Pope John Paul ll may not be doing much public speaking — ever — following a tracheotomy (a small opening cut into the neck and windpipe, with a breathing tube inserted into it so air can flow directly into the lungs) yesterday to alleviate a breathing …

You think pseudonymous conservative gay pornographer-escort White House correspondent Jeff Gannon stuck out like a sore … wait, check that … was highly UNUSUAL among the White House press corps? Think again: Marlin Fitzwater, former press secretary to Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush, said in an interview that he …

Jinkies, the definition of “jazz festival” continues to mutate, in this case containing artists who either actually play some variety of jazz or who have heard the word “jazz” used in conversation. Nonetheless, it’s a fine lineup and will doubtless be a great time for one and all. The Jazz …

As in life, there is a twlight blurring of the boundaries between Hunter S. Thompson as esteemed literary figure, and the actual person who lived on this earth. Even his family participates in the myth-making, buying into — at least publicly — the legitimacy and even heroism of his suicide, …