Monthly Archives: September 2024

NEWS, SPORT

MMA UFC Paris: A Disappointment for Benoît Saint Denis Against Renato Moicano

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The third edition of UFC Paris delivered a night full of intense action, culminating in a highly anticipated main event between French fighter Benoît Saint Denis and Brazilian Renato Moicano. Unfortunately for the home crowd, the evening ended in disappointment for Saint Denis.

Photos : UFC/Accor Arena/DR

A tough start for Benoit Saint Denis

From the very first round, the fight tilted in favor of Renato Moicano. Benoît Saint Denis, known as “BSD,” quickly found himself in trouble, taking hits to both eyes and struggling under Moicano’s ground pressure. The Brazilian’s dominance was evident from the outset.

Medical stoppage

At the end of the second round, the ringside doctor was called in to assess Saint Denis’s condition. With his eyes severely swollen, it was determined that he could not safely continue. This led to the fight being stopped, awarding the victory to Renato Moicano by medical decision.

Photos : UFC/Accor Arena/DR

A night of mixed emotions

This loss by medical stoppage was a significant letdown for Benoît Saint Denis and his supporters. Despite rigorous preparation and unwavering determination, the Frenchman was unable to overcome the physical challenges posed by his opponent. The evening, filled with intense bouts and moments of bravery, ended on a somber note for the French contingent.

Photos : UFC/Accor Arena/DR

LIFESTYLE, NEWS

Alcoholic architecture: A unique sensory immersion in London

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Imagine a bar where alcohol is not drunk, but inhaled. This is the unique experience offered by Alcoholic Architecture, a pop-up bar created by Bompas & Parr. Here, customers inhale alcohol in vapor form, a method that intoxicates them more quickly than traditional alcoholic beverages.

Saturated atmosphere

Inside this bar, the air is saturated with 140% humidity, allowing alcohol droplets to float in a thick mist. An hour spent in this atmosphere is equivalent to consuming a very strong drink. This rapid and efficient absorption method, however, requires careful management to avoid any danger.

Photos : Alcoholic Architecture/DR

Unique setting

Located in a Victorian building next to a cathedral, Alcoholic Architecture offers a unique ambiance, blending Miami neon lights with the atmosphere of a monastery. Customers don a plastic poncho before entering a misting chamber, where they can breathe deeply and soak in the smoky flavor of incense-infused gin.

When alcohol is inhaled rather than drunk

Bompas & Parr, famous for their extravagant culinary creations, collaborated with scientists for six years to perfect this sensory experience. Their goal was to create total immersion, where each breath transports customers to a world of new flavors and sensations.

Eager anticipation

Currently closed while awaiting a new location, Alcoholic Architecture leaves its fans in anticipation. This temporary closure only heightens the impatience of hedonistic experience enthusiasts, who eagerly await the reopening of this innovative bar.

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Photos : Alcoholic Architecture/DR

ART & CULTURE, NEWS

Maggie Smith: A legendary actress passes away at 89

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Maggie Smith, the legendary British actress known for her iconic roles in “Harry Potter” and “Downton Abbey,” has passed away at the age of 89. Her remarkable career, spanning over six decades, earned her numerous accolades and the admiration of audiences worldwide.

Maggie Smith, the legendary British actress, has passed away at the age of 89. Renowned for her roles as Professor McGonagall in “Harry Potter” and Violet Crawley in “Downton Abbey,” she left an indelible mark on both cinema and theatre. Born on december 28, 1934, in Ilford, she began her career on stage in the 1950s before achieving cinematic success in the 1960s. She won two Oscars: Best Actress for “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie” (1970) and Best Supporting Actress for “California Suite” (1979).

Photos : Downton Abbey/Loewe/Harry Potter/Vogue/DR

Personal life, complicated

Despite a tumultuous personal life, including a challenging marriage to actor Robert Stephens, Maggie Smith continued to excel in her career. She overcame breast cancer in 2007 and continued working despite her illness. She was honored by Queen Elizabeth II in 1990 and again in 2014 for her contributions to the arts. She is survived by her two sons, Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens, and five grandchildren. Her artistic legacy and influence will endure, inspiring future generations of actors and audiences.

Photos : Downton Abbey/Loewe/Harry Potter/Vogue/DR

NEWS, SPORT

EA Sports FC 25: A tactical revolution with persistent shadows

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EA Sports FC 25 marks a significant turning point for the franchise, with major tactical innovations and stunning graphics. However, familiar flaws persist, leaving a mixed impression.

EA Sports FC 25 represents a major evolution for the franchise, introducing significant changes while retaining some well-known flaws for fans. The game stands out with its new FC IQ system, which allows for advanced tactical customization of player roles using real data.

Photos: EA Sports/DR

Revolutionary tactics and innovative game modes

This innovation offers players the ability to adjust individual play styles, creating unprecedented strategic depth. The 5v5 Rush mode is a refreshing addition, bringing a chaotic and fun dimension to team matches. Players can form their dream team in Ultimate Team™ Rush mode, compete against other teams in Clubs Rush, and manage their youth academy in 5v5 Rush tournaments. The career mode also benefits from new features, including the ability to develop a team of young talents and the introduction of a career mode for women. Graphically, FC 25 is impressive, offering realism and visual details reminiscent of a TV broadcast, with real-time statistics, goal replays, and immersive interactions like player interviews and celebrations with mascots.

Persistent issues

However, despite these improvements, familiar issues persist. The defense often seems reactive and disorganized, with defenders slow to react and tackle. Player switching can be frustrating, sometimes requiring multiple attempts to control the desired player. In-game commentary is sometimes out of sync with the action, and graphical bugs, such as the field turning pink, can occur. The Ultimate Team mode remains virtually unchanged from FC 24, with the same microtransaction issues, which may disappoint those hoping for new features in this popular game mode. EA Sports FC 25 brings welcome innovations and enhances the gaming experience with more sophisticated tactics and stunning graphics. However, it retains flaws that will be familiar to franchise veterans, leaving a mixed impression despite notable advances.

Photos: EA Sports/DR

LIFESTYLE, NEWS

The elegant transformation of Ladbroke Hall

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Ladbroke Hall, recently transformed into an arts center, now hosts the first London restaurant of Italian chef Emanuele Pollini, offering an exceptional culinary experience in a sumptuous setting.

A historic venue reimagined

Ladbroke Hall, a Grade II listed building, reopened last year after its previous incarnation as Sunbeam Studios. This beautiful space, reminiscent of an Edwardian country house, was once the front building of a car factory. Today, it stands as a vibrant arts center, blending history with modernity.

Photos : Ladbroke Hall/London/DR

Emanuele Pollini’s London debut

Italian chef Emanuele Pollini, winner of the 2020 Gambero Rosso International Award, chose this location to open his first restaurant in London. Situated in a discreet spot, the restaurant surprises visitors with the presence of an elegant doorman. Inside, the decor is breathtaking: a vast atrium with stucco ceilings, abundant marble, and a branch-shaped chandelier hanging above a central black bar. Luxurious velvet banquettes and staff uniforms designed by Giles Deacon add a touch of sophistication.

An unforgettable culinary journey

Pollini’s cuisine is simply exceptional. The meal begins with sourdough and focaccia, both with perfect flavor and texture. My starter of raw yellowtail with cold-pressed tomato kosho yuzu dressing is fresh and delicate, with a hint of chili. The wild boar ragu tagliatelle are rich and flavorful, offering an explosion of tastes.

Photos : Ladbroke Hall/London/DR

Main courses that impress

The main course, Cornish monkfish with clams and Datterini tomatoes, poached in Gavi di Gavi, is sweet and tender, reminiscent of lobster, with subtle notes of lemon and chili. The saddle of venison, accompanied by chanterelles, artichokes, and savoy cabbage, is a generous dish with incredibly tender meat and a slight chocolatey taste.

Exquisite desserts

For dessert, Pollini focuses on ice cream, his specialty. The Sicilian pistachio ice cream is a delight, nutty and perfectly balanced, topped with roasted pistachios. The Squacquerone, a creamy cow’s milk cheese served with caramelized figs, is also remarkable. Each dish is a discovery, and the entire culinary experience is memorable.

Photos : Ladbroke Hall/London/DR

A must-visit culinary destination

“Visit POLLINI at 79 Barlby Road, W10“, to discover the culinary art of chef Emanuele Pollini in a historic and elegant setting. Ladbroke Hall, with its elegant transformation and exceptional gastronomic offering, is a must-visit destination for lovers of fine dining and beautiful spaces.

Photos : Ladbroke Hall/London/DR

LIFESTYLE, MUSIQUE, NEWS

The Blitz Club: An icon of the 80s returns to the spotlight

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The famous Blitz Club in Covent Garden, which marked the 1980s as the birthplace of the New Romantic movement, will be celebrated in an immersive exhibition at the London Design Museum next year. This exhibition promises to be a true sensory dive into the vibrant universe of that era.

The Blitz Club frequented by iconic figures such as Boy George and David Bowie, was a central hub for fashion, music, and pop culture in the UK during the 1980s. Steve Reed, one of the Blitz Kids, was among those who contributed to the club’s fame. In collaboration with former influential members of this group, the museum has designed an exhibition that will capture the essence of this transformative period.

Photos: Getty Images/Blitz/Sheila Rock/Craig Kudel/Design Museum/London/DR

Immersive experience

Scheduled for next year, the exhibition will offer visitors a unique opportunity to relive the electrifying atmosphere of the Blitz Club. Located behind a discreet door in a side street of Covent Garden, the club was the starting point for the flamboyant style of the 1980s. The museum describes this period as a time when “the idealism of the 1970s gave way to the dazzling individualism of the 1980s.”

Art, design, and innovation

In addition to celebrating the London club scene, the exhibition will highlight the art, design, architecture, and technology of the era. It will also feature a “new generation” of international designers, emphasizing the lasting influence of the New Romantic movement on contemporary creators.

Photos: Getty Images/Blitz/Sheila Rock/Craig Kudel/Design Museum/London/DR

A varied program

The Design Museum has also unveiled its full exhibition schedule for next year. Highlights include an exhibition on swimming and swimwear, as well as another focused on how design can help the environment thrive by considering more than just human needs. A retrospective dedicated to filmmaker Wes Anderson will explore his unique and iconic visual style. The exhibition on the Blitz Club promises to be a must-see event for all fans of 1980s fashion, music, and pop culture. By revisiting this pivotal period, the London Design Museum offers a fascinating dive into London’s cultural history, celebrating the enduring legacy of the New Romantic movement.

Photos: Getty Images/Blitz/Sheila Rock/Craig Kudel/Design Museum/London/DR

NEWS, SPORT

BOXE Daniel Dubois, a sensational victory over Anthony Joshua

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In a memorable evening at Wembley Stadium, Daniel Dubois triumphed spectacularly over Anthony Joshua in front of 96,000 spectators. At 27, Daniel Dubois not only retained his IBF heavyweight title but also catapulted his career to global stardom.

Intense fight

From the first round, Daniel Dubois took the advantage by knocking Anthony Joshua down with a devastating blow. The British champion, visibly shaken, struggled to regain his footing. The challenger continued to dominate, using his jab with precision and power. The fight reached its climax in the fifth round when Daniel Dubois delivered a spectacular right hook that ended the match. Anthony Joshua, unable to get up in time, saw his hopes of victory vanish.

Photos : Matchroomboxing/Wembley Stadium/Getty Images/IBF/DR

Anthony Joshua’s defeat

For Anthony Joshua, this defeat is a significant setback. At 34, he was attempting to become a three-time champion and reclaim the top spot in the heavyweight division. However, this fourth defeat in 32 fights leaves his career in an uncertain state. Despite this, Anthony Joshua hinted that he would continue in the sport and might trigger a rematch clause against Daniel Dubois. “I’m ready to get back in the ring, but I’ll stay respectful,” he said after the fight.

An unforgettable evening

The evening was marked by an electric atmosphere, with Liam Gallagher energizing the crowd before the main event. Daniel Dubois, despite being the champion, entered the ring first to boos, while Anthony Joshua, the crowd favorite, made his entrance to an impressive musical medley. From the start, Daniel Dubois demonstrated his determination and power, knocking Joshua down multiple times.

Photos : Matchroomboxing/Wembley Stadium/Getty Images/IBF/DR

A new dawn for boxing

This victory marks a new era for Daniel Dubois. “I want to reach the top of this sport and achieve my full potential,” he declared. Supported by his father Stan, Daniel Dubois proved he could shine on the biggest stage, four years after a tough defeat to Joe Joyce. “I’ve been on a rollercoaster, this is my time, this is my redemption story,” he added.

Daniel Dubois’ future

For Daniel Dubois, this victory is a crowning achievement. At just 27, he has shown he is ready to face the biggest names in world boxing. His future looks bright, with many opportunities on the horizon. “I’m a gladiator. I’m a warrior to the end. I want to reach the highest level of this sport and achieve my potential,” he affirmed with determination.

Photos : Matchroomboxing/Wembley Stadium/Getty Images/IBF/DR

FASHION, NEWS

FASHION WEEK LONDON Burberry Spring-Summer 2025 Show : Bucolic

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On the penultimate day of London Fashion Week, Daniel Lee presented his Burberry Spring-Summer 2025 collection at the National Theatre. Guests, greeted by flowing turquoise canvases, experienced a striking contrast between softness and functionality, true to the spirit of the British brand.

Return to roots

The invitation, a gabardine square, evoked Burberry’s iconic trench coats and their utilitarian functions. For his fourth collection, Daniel Lee promised a return to the brand’s origins, the country’s heritage, and the essence of the fabric. The set, designed by Gary Hume, was inspired by his work “Bays,” recreating hospital doors in their abstract simplicity.

Photos : Burberry/DR

A countryside odyssey

To the experimental notes of “Bench” by British producer Clark, models paraded in pastel colors and light cuts. Short capes and trench coats, sometimes cropped or extra-fluid, suggested a walk in the woods. Details like tousled feathers and oiled jackets enhanced this bucolic atmosphere.

Elegance and technicality

The collection blended the technicality of outdoor vocabulary with the preciousness of long silk dresses and lavallière blouses. Daniel Lee even incorporated sequined dresses, shimmering like running water, creating a true countryside odyssey. The show, always the most anticipated of London Fashion Week, attracted celebrities like Lila Moss, Barry Keoghan, and Skepta.

Photos : Burberry/DR

A stellar cast

The cast included renowned models such as Lily Donaldson, Edie Campbell, and Liu Wen. Staying true to the house’s codes, Lee reinterpreted the classic trench with shortened versions and low-rise capri pants. Accessories like a nova check belt and butter-white leather bags added an elegant touch. Since joining Burberry, Lee has understood that women seek a large warm jacket to wear over their evening dresses. This silhouette, now a staple, evokes the feeling of grabbing a coat on a cool night. The always remarkable accessories perfectly complemented this spring collection.

Photos : Burberry/DR

ART & CULTURE, NEWS

“A Thousand Times an Instant” : Teresa Margolles’ powerful tribute in London

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The iconic “Fourth Plinth” in Trafalgar Square now hosts “A Thousand Times an Instant”, a poignant sculpture by Mexican artist Teresa Margolles. This plaster artwork, featuring the faces of 726 trans, non-binary, and gender non-conforming individuals, will be on display for the next two years.

A tribute to the trans community

Teresa Margolles’ sculpture is a heartfelt homage to her late friend Carla, a transgender woman brutally murdered in Ciudad Juárez. The artist aims to honor Carla and highlight the violence faced by the trans community, particularly in Latin America, where hate crimes are alarmingly prevalent.

Photos : Mor Carpenter, Fourth Plinth/London/DR

Personal stories cast in plaster

The sculpture, described by Margolles as “small in size but powerful in essence,” captures the personal stories of each individual. The plaster molds, created in Mexico City, Juárez, and London, were applied directly to the participants’ faces, preserving their features and essence.

Visibility and solidarity

Grecia Herrera, who collaborated closely with Margolles, emphasized the international visibility this sculpture brings to trans women. The artwork not only showcases the resilience and humanity of the trans and non-binary community but also serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing violence and disappearances, especially in Latin America.

Photos : Mor Carpenter, Fourth Plinth/London/DR

A controversial memorial

While the sculpture has been praised for its artistic and emotional impact, it has also sparked debate. Critics argue that it exaggerates the risks faced by trans individuals in countries like the UK, where research suggests they are less likely to be murdered compared to the general population. This controversy highlights the broader issue of violence against women, which remains a critical concern globally.

Call for awareness

Margolles’ work brings attention to the harsh realities faced by the trans community, urging society to acknowledge and address these issues. The installation at Trafalgar Square stands as a powerful symbol of solidarity, remembrance, and the ongoing fight for justice and equality.

Photos : Mor charpenter/ Fourth Plinth/London/DR

ART & CULTURE, NEWS

Beetlejuice 2: A fun but flawed sequel

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Over three decades after Tim Burton’s cult classic, “Beetlejuice” returns with a sequel that, while entertaining and nostalgic, struggles to recapture the depth of the original.

A quirky comeback

“Beetlejuice 2” doesn’t quite recreate the innovative magic of the 1988 film, but it does capture its eccentric and playful spirit. The sequel balances between a clever reimagining and a nostalgia-driven story, skillfully using fan service while introducing new elements and an impressive musical number.

Photos : Warner Bros/DR

A family tale

The story picks up decades after the original events. Three generations of Deetz women return to their family home in Winter River following the death of Charles Deetz. Lydia (Winona Ryder), now a host of a supernatural TV show, is haunted by her abilities and manipulated by her boyfriend Rory (Justin Theroux). Her daughter Astrid (Jenna Ortega) has a strained relationship with her.

Between two worlds

The Deetz family finds themselves once again caught between the living and the dead, with Beetlejuice (Michael Keaton) still around and some malevolent ghosts causing trouble. The film delves deeper into Neitherworld, a realm where the deceased wait their turn, featuring visually captivating scenes and practical effects reminiscent of the original.

Photos : Warner Bros/DR

Memorable characters

Wolf Jackson (Willem Dafoe), the chief of Neitherworld’s police, stands out as a notable new character. The film avoids excessive CGI, favoring practical effects and stop-motion animation that align with the story’s quirky humor and imagination.

Enchanting Music

Danny Elfman’s lively score is complemented by hits from the Bee-Gees and Richard Max, with a nod to Harry Belafonte’s “Banana Boat (Day-O).” The film finds its own memorable musical moment with a rendition of “MacArthur Park.”

Narrative weaknesses

Despite its strengths, “Beetlejuice 2” suffers from narrative issues. Characters like Delores (Monica Bellucci) are underutilized, and the film quickly abandons intriguing plot threads. The central relationship between Lydia and Astrid lacks development.

Photos : Warner Bros/DR

A tribute to Tim Burton

Tim Burton recaptures his distinctive style, though the film sometimes feels like a tribute to his past work, with references to his earlier films. While entertaining, “Beetlejuice 2” fails to recreate the original’s magic, leaving viewers wondering if Tim Burton can ever regain the originality that made his early work so special.

Photos : Warner Bros/DR