What A Booty! - the journey

The International language of BOOTY!

2011-11-17T21:47:00.000-08:00

Or perhaps more accurately... EUROPEAN language! :)

The Big Butt Book -- It exists!!

2010-05-20T13:36:00.001-07:00

Now, this is the book I had always hoped would spin off from What A Booty! I didn't have the ability to create it (no longer having rights to the project) but I had no doubts that it would someday exist as the brainchild of another booty-celebrating woman! Her name is Dian Hanson and you can order her book at www.taschen.com Nice coffee table addition, methinks?

One "trip" may be over, but the Journey will continue!

2009-09-08T10:23:00.001-07:00

Though I made this film a few years back now, I can't help but feel like it has forever changed my life. I've definitely been bitten by the documentary bug and feel compelled to help promote healthy body-image and especially empower young girls/women as they tackle the challenge of body confidence in their lives.

So, I decided... if people are still checking out this blog... and if my own journey to spread the gospel that all women's bodies are beautiful-- why not shamelessly plug MYSELF and my storytelling talents??

Did you like the film? If you enjoyed my approach to storytelling and my aesthetic and would be interested in collaborating on future projects... well, guess what? I'm creating and dreaming daily-- and I may want to work with you!

I can't turn away projects that spark a passion in me. So if the subject/timing/partnership fits... I may be your gal!

You can contact me through my website: www.betweenproductions.ca

:)
Tatyana

Some pics to relive the 'moment'

2009-09-06T11:14:00.000-07:00

In the interest of nostalgia, here are some pictures that reflect the journey that is "What A Booty"!

Enjoy!

Tatyana

Strolling with Teal in Atlanta, chatting about her upcoming debut in a nude booty photo exhibit:

Taking my first burlesque dance class with Michelle L'Amour in Chicago:

Checking out my 'goods' when my journey brings me to Chicago:

The original format of my 'confessionals' (which were later re-shot against a black background and more tightly delivered as I tend to be long-winded and convuluted!) -- shot in my hotel room each night:

Contemplating a piece of sidewalk chalk art (conceptualized by the great Leigh Young) in Toronto:

Kellita and her Hot Pink Feathers from San Francisco demonstrate ways to "Shake Your Tailfeather":

Six Mix-A-Lot waxes poetic on the beauty of the booty:

Journalist Sarah Hubinger shows us what life in New York is like when you've got "back":

Strolling (and trading 'childhoods growing up with booty' stories) in Chicago with Michelle L'Amour:

Michelle L'Amour showing off what makes her a goddess:

One of Michelle L'Amour's riveting burlesque performances:

Artist and Entrepreneur "Hotep", getting ready for his "Venus Revolution" photo exhibit in Atlanta:

Hotep surrounded by his "booty muses"-- can you spot him smiling in the middle?:

The gals of Hips and Curves (www.hipsandcurves.com) lingerie show you how attitude (and the right underwear) can super-sexify a booty:

Fitness expert Tosca Reno shows you how to sculpt a butt:

Chatting with body (and booty!) sculpting pro Dr. Tom Roberts on the science behind the perfect posterior at his facility in South Carolina:

Ack! My first-ever photo shoot for PZI jeans in Atlanta:

My modeling debut in the form of a giant poster for PZI jeans at the entrance of the MAGIC fashion trade show in Las Vegas:

Exploring Brazil's booty obsession on a beach in Rio:

Me and my alter-ego, "Booty Girl", pose for publicity snaps:

Stay tuned for stills of scenes that DID NOT make the final cut of the movie (there was just too much good stuff to fit into the time slot the network ordered!!).....

Nice Review of "What A Booty!"

2009-08-06T21:29:00.000-07:00

http://randomquorum.wordpress.com/2009/01/06/what-a-booty/

YAY! My next goal is certainly to make a film that becomes "required viewing" in all schools!

:)
Tatyana

Big Booty in the Health News!

2009-01-07T16:09:00.001-08:00

http://www.news.com.au/story/0,27574,24877840-36398,00.html

Booty Forever

2008-01-09T12:12:00.001-08:00

I realize that I abandoned this blog without even so much as a sign-off! Apologies!

The film is complete and I've moved on to new ventures, but I'm happy to say the booty journey lives on.

I have received many emails from Aussies complimenting my work, which is unbelieveably gratifying. The film aired a few weeks back on SBS, a broadcaster in Australia. It's always fascinating to hear how people from different countries and communities respond to a project, especially given my very specific viewpoint. Overall, the response has been good, save a few older male tv critics who weren't blown away by the story -- and I do not discredit them for not being able to identify with my personal journey!!

I will post updates from time to time, as I catch wind of new airdates and once I get into the film festival circuit. But more than anything, I look forward to connecting with like-minded women and men, filmmakers or otherwise, to continue to create films that have an impact!

A self-proclaimed "booty gal",
Tatyana

The Butt Goes On

2007-07-12T13:41:00.001-07:00

Wouldn't you know it..... just when I thought this "craze" in Hollywood was winding down, US Weekly publishes a mini article on the "Greek Butt". It started with Kelly Clarkson speaking out recently about her bout with bulimia and her love of food, which ensures that she will never be a waif-thin pop star. Kelly has Greek roots.... which I am aware of. But the US article also mentioned Maria Menounos and Jennifer Aniston.

Now I don't know a whole lot about Maria Menounos, but I do know that she apparently went through quite a Hollywood-style transformation and whipped her curvy body into shape. She definitely had a lot more booty when she first appeared in the press. As for Aniston, she blames her alleged ass on her "Greek roots". I'm not a huge Aniston supporter as she never seemed to be happy with being Greek and only mentions her heritage when she has a "flaw" people criticize her about.

Anyhow, don't want to end this post on a down note -- three cheers for Kelly Clarkson! Wish her 'peeps' had thought my project worthy enough to get her to participate. Believe me, I tried. Nice folks... but we Canadians and our projects just aren't enticing enough to the American pop culture world!

And while we're at it -- a friend called to my attention the so-called "HHD" (Hellenic Hip Disorder). Who came up with this term!? It's funny but also horrendous. Ladies, Mediterraneans have long been known for their healthy curves.... let's take the "Disorder" out of the equation and make it something like "Deity" or "Diva"....

I'm out.

I'm a Booty Researcher for Life!

2007-07-04T19:31:00.000-07:00

Or so it seems. I suppose until something becomes more fascinating to me (good luck!) than the booty and body image, I will continue to dig around on the Net.

I came across this FABULOUS blog today.... woohooo!!!

http://celebodies.wordpress.com

I'm going to be visiting this one regularly!

Cheers,

Tatyana

What A Booty! - the promo

2007-06-27T14:15:00.001-07:00

Ahhhh! I'm starting to freak out! Especially when I caught this promo currently airing on W Network. It's just days before this film premieres, and I have NO IDEA what the response will be like.... and if I'll even hear about the response (above and beyond the friends who hopefully will be honest with me). So this is an open invitation to COMMENT on the film -- here! Go for it! Especially if you have any sort of reaction to it whatsoever!

As for this promo -- I'm actually really glad that it didn't include any embarassing footage of me from the film... not spoiling any of the surprises whatsoever!

You just never know what you'll find!

2007-06-18T17:47:00.000-07:00

One of my slight hesitations I had when I embarked on this project was the fact that the "ass" is a somewhat 'taboo' body part and definitely an area that is highly fetishized in porn.

I'm sure I don't need to tell anyone how the "research" phase went, when I googled "booty" and butt in it's other forms.... lots of questionable content.

Which is why I'm not surprised that I came across this title not so long ago.....

It's amazing JUST HOW MANY titles with reference to the 'tush' have been already taken by the adult video industry -- try brainstorming an original title that hasn't somehow been used in porn, I *challenge* you!

Anyhow, this is in no way meant to encourage you to visit porn sites... or to promote the adult porn industry.... just one of the many unforseen 'challenges' I encountered in creating this film.

It's a funny world we live in, full of 'surprises', that's for sure!

Musings on Making Documentary

2007-06-11T13:16:00.000-07:00

This journey is winding down. It sure does feel like an eternity, considering I was expecting to have been done 2 months ago... but the "end" is in sight!

For a project that began as a fun look at a topic/body part...which then morphed into a very personal and revealing documentary... I can honestly say it's been one of the hardest experiences of my career and my life! And I've travelled through such a myriad of emotions!

The irony of making TV is that the entire "creation" process goes unbeknowst to the vast majority of the final audience... they only have access to the final product. Which has been part of my agenda for creating this blog.... to give everyone a taste of the journey behind the final film.

But whether or not you read about the "behind-the-scenes", I have noticed something particularly interesting in creating a documentary:

If Heart and Soul isn't put into the programming (which often translates into significant Sweat and Suffering during production), the programming may fail to engage the audience. So whether there is a blog to capture the production process or not, the final film, in most cases, will capture the energy, passion, and emotion that the filmmaker went through!

At this moment, I would say that a "P.O.V." (Point-Of-View) documentary is one best attempted by the strongest, most confident (or eccentric and attention-seeking) of filmmakers. Particularly if the POV is being commissioned by a network and not simply a labor of love.

I am none of the above "types" but I still put immense passion and soul into every project I undertake. And though criticism/collaboration is part of the playing field of creating TV... I've learned firsthand that it takes a strong will to pull through when your passion also is your personal story. Particularly when the filmmaker is sharing his/her inner turmoil and insecurities with an audience that may not sympathize or relate. But beyond that, it also takes a tough skin to not internalize comments from various players in the project...comments that are necessary to build a strong story but, inadvertently, also critique a person's personal perspective and ability to convey their innermost secrets.

One of the most dramatic realizations for me has been just how POWERFUL today's documentarians need to be. They need to be more than the behind-the-scenes storytellers of years gone by... they need to be "Micheal Moores". This presents an interesting comparison. In fact, when I began on this journey, I wanted my approach to be closer to that of Micheal Moore. And, somewhere along the way, I was coaxed into becoming, albeit with much resistance, a "Morgan Spurlock". You'll know what I mean when you see the film.

In a world that is seeking more "reality" (reality-TV or documentary), we're also demanding that compelling characters share the stories. While we're still loving the underdog story -- many of us won't stay tuned to watch an underdog tell a story -- unless he or she is also a Comedic Riot, borderline Nutcase, or a Sexpot.... etc., etc.

Looking back on what I've done and how exposed this particular facet of my life will be in the near future.... it's a scary, scary thing. And I say this not to beg people's sympathy or to go easy on me... but it's a huge realization I've just come to.

And one day in the future, I think I'll be able to look back and realize just what a huge personal accomplishment this has been for me.

For right now, I hope everyone likes the film!

Tatyana

Introducing "Booty Girl"!

2007-06-11T10:16:00.000-07:00

Ladies and gentlemen, I would like to introduce you to "Booty Girl", born from the amazing talents of illustrator Leigh Young!

Our "Booty Girl" is a Modern Superheroine -- a sassy and sexy crusader bringing awareness and celebration to women's natural curves... and you will get to meet her in the upcoming premiere of "What A Booty!"

Yeah, Leigh! Props to our Canadian Talent! I feel so blessed to have discovered and connected with this young woman. :) I discovered her sassy, curvaceous pin-up-style illustrations online and had to connect with her! Check them out yourself at:

www.leighyoung.com

Confessions of a Relunctantly "Booty-full" Gal

2007-05-01T10:19:00.000-07:00

We've just finished our "rough cut" -- which for those not in the biz, is the 'draft' of the film. After seeing the film as it stands and after having spent hours upon hours in the edit suite, working with my editor to pick the very best moments for this film, I am beginning to realize that I must now come to terms with what I've created. And also confess to the world a little-known fact about this film.

Here goes.... deep breath.....

This film is....

About ME.

Well, it's about many many other people as well, as you've seen from my blogs... but it's a lot more about me then I have been letting on and, honestly, more than I've let myself believe.

After reading/hearing this confession, those who know me will likely have one of two reactions:

- guys will likely say "no way! wicked! show it off, girl!"
- gals will most likely say "really? why? how.?", etc...

Of course, I'm generalizing. But my point is, I have never really openly talked about any supposed "preoccupation" with or "anxiety" over my booty. My body in general, at various moments in my life, yes... but not specifically my tushie.

When I first dreamt up this idea, over 2 yrs ago, I had been responding to the trend in society. Now that I think about it, I think I was more excited than most of my gal-pals over the Beyonce/JLo booty craze.... I probably just never stopped to think about why. In all honesty, I feel that I am closer to celebrities with 'that' body type than the other "icons" currently out there... so I decided to celebrate it.

But my goal was always to tell MY viewpoint through OTHER 'characters'.

As I begun my research and the shaping of my storylines -- and with significant coaxing from those in power, it became apparent that the story would be stronger if I put a personal spin on it all. Being the behind-the-scenes type, this resulted in far too much anxiety. What sane person, knowing how tv is actually created and manipulated to tell the story the producers want to tell, would openly offer herself up to such a sacrifice? Perhaps I'm not sane after all... this would explain a few things.... I kid, I kid!

I reveal all of this because I feel like I haven't been telling the whole truth about "What A Booty!" Yes, it's a celebration of the female booty. And yes, it's a story seen through my eyes... but it is also a film that has developed into a very personal journey.

I do not have (to my knowledge) a huge ass. Nor do I think I ever did. And I did not have any deep-routed anxiety about my butt based on any specific uncomfortable or traumatic childhood experience. If anything, I'm a little more endowed than most in the posterior department but not to the point where it has ever really limited my enjoyment in life. Or stuck out in extreme disproportion to the rest of me. I certainly used to get a lot more attention for my butt specifically in high school/early university days...perhaps because it might have been the most prominent/defining feature on my body. But these days, well let's just say, to my knowledge, I don't get cat-called mainly from 'behind' as I did in days past...

But, I DO suffer from warped body image and sense of body confidence on the whole.... I confess. And what woman DOESN'T, with the crap we're seeing in Hollywood and in the fashion world?

So, the BUTT in my film is not necessarily MY butt. And I feel it's important for me to say this because I feel sometimes like, in the words of a colleague, "a fraud". I would never have cast myself in this particular role... especially because I've never been drawn to the spotlight in FRONT of the camera... but I see how I can be the conduit and the link in bringing women with powerful perspectives and experiences together for a common goal.

The BUTT becomes a metaphor for any part of us that is exploited, deemed "desirable" or trendy, or that causes us anxiety because it doesn't measure up to society's warped ideals. I really hope this comes through in the film.

When I look back on this experience, I will certainly be shocked and amazed with what I have accomplished.... that goes without saying.

But what I hope for more than anything, is to be a storyteller that the audience can relate to. I've proven capable of engaging audiences with my stories and carefully sought-out characters. This is where my confidence lies. My greatest fear as I move forward (above and beyond proclaiming my inner-most thoughts and ideas to the entire country) is the possibility of failing to engage the audience with ME.

Booty-Loving Denim according to Tatyana

2007-04-24T15:22:00.000-07:00

I bought a pair of jeans the other day.

Now before you tune out, remember, everything to do in my life these days is booty related in some way, shape or form. And finding jeans that fit my body type has always been a challenge. In fact, ever since my beloved Sevens got a lovely crotch rip from general wear-n-tear, I've made a promise to myself not to buy another pair of overpriced "premium" denim, until there was a fit and style that was close to perfect.

Fortunately, between then and now, there have been a few random pairs that have appeared in my life like little non-designer rays of light.... including my amazing documentary character-find "PZI denim" (when the heck is this line going to be offered in Canada!). But the reality is, for me to find jeans, I have to CONSTANTLY be on the look out. It is a lot more involved then walking into a jeans store, trying on a few pairs in a brand line that always works for me, and walking out a happy gal.

Since I'm on the subject, I will share my research on jeans for the 'bootyful' based on actual experience and not just word-of-mouth claims:

MY CURRENT JEANS ROSTER:

- SEVERAL pairs of PZI (www.pzijeans.com)

- Bedo jeans. A brand of mens and womens clothing, only available in Canada. I didn't even know they did denim. And I found one bootcut style that I snatched up that they no longer offer.

- a pair of Salt jeans that I snagged at Winners (I guess the US equivalent of this would be TJ MAXX), if I remember correctly. I've tried to find comparable Salt's again... and no such luck. Guess they don't make this fit anymore too.

- a pair of Diesels that I actually had to buy on EBAY when my first pair reached the end of it's life. It's a style called 'DAZE' that I have been complimented on many times but for God's sake, what the HECK happened to Diesel? Currently, all of their styles are stiff, lycra/stretch free, and really really narrow in the thigh.

- a pair from EXPRESS in the US. It's their new "premium denim" line... thank goodness "premium" to this company still means under $100! The style is 'DPD Boot Cut'

- I also am a big fan of Juicy Couture. Or more like I USED to be.... the pair I have DO fit but I'm not a fan of the ultra-low rise that they tend to use.

- A few others not worth mentioning...trouser styles from WINNERS again...

IN MEMORIAM:

I wanted to take a moment to remember the fallen jeans styles that have disappeared into my past but were well loved during their time with me:

- Goldsign 'Passion' jeans....they still make these but not in the uber-soft wash and relaxed cut that I fell in love with....

- Rock & Republic 'Roth' jeans (a gray-black slightly sheen wash, back when the line first came out and the 'R's would lie sideways on the pocket

Point being, I finally caved and bought the Citizens. They are a gorgeous wide leg, nice blue-black wash and they are a little too tight in the thigh, but overall, quite the find considering my track record thus far!

As I was digging around to find a pic to share with my readers that shows the full booty-hugging beauty of this style, this is what I found:

Cute girl, but hardly the best example of how these jeans particularly flatter a curvy figure... SIGH.

I'll have to do a shot myself at some point.

That's the latest....

T

Bootyful Liar

2007-04-16T23:40:00.000-07:00

Ok, I'm speechless. The two sexiest and famously bootylicious women (well one a little less so but her hip gyrations are still something to behold) have teamed up to do a song and an equally steamy video -- "Beautiful Liar"

Yes, my ladies Beyonce and Shakira, in a duet! I wonder who the marketing genius was that paired these two together.... ?

Considering I've had a love/hate relationship with Beyonce, especially after her PR rep for House of Dereon was so abrasive and disgustingly rude to me back in the summer, and the fact that she lost a lot of weight "supposedly" for Dreamgirls.... I'm quite impressed. This video fully showcases the 'back' that made her famous... and apparently she's still got one! Ok, Beyonce, now keep it that way... you just don't look right when you're super thin.... one look at her hips in that form-fitting dress in the opening section, and you'll know what I'm talking about. And don't get me started on the 'humping the wall' sequence -- a bit raunchy but check out the CURVES!!!

Words to describe Beyonce and Shakira in this video:

Multicultural, sensual, deliciously curvy and vocally gifted.... there is not much substance to this video, but with BUTTS like that, quite frankly, WHO CARES??!?

This is what women should look like.....

That's all for now.

Too MUCH Cheek?

2007-04-12T11:53:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to post more regularly with awesome booty news and finds that I come across, but it just hasn't been possible lately with pressing edit deadlines and far less time to research and net surf.

Nevertheless, my friend Michelle at the office received a forward that led me to the following "Weird Booty News":

Ok, so I don't know if this is a legitimate trend in JAPAN.... and I don't have time to really hunt around to verify, so let me know if this is a hoax. Exposed thongs aside, there is an actually BRAZILIAN company that is designing what could be considered the ultimate booty-revealing denim jean:

http://www.sannas-shop.com/store/produtoen.php?id=100536

I didn't actually see anyone in Rio wearing these but good lord..... I'm not on board with this one!

Tatyana

A couple words to describe my current situation

2007-03-26T20:45:00.000-07:00

Sixty-plus hours of raw footage must now become 46 minutes of television.

Enough said.

Now the hardest work begins.....

Last Travel Shoot!

2007-03-19T12:41:00.000-07:00

Wow, I don't think I could follow up Brazil with anything more fascinating... and I didn't.
Ok, so I'm being a little bit unfair to South Carolina.... and yes I have mixed opinions of this part of the US, but with the amount of energy, stress and effort put into the whole Brazil experience, it really did feel like the grand finale....

Except I had one last trip to take. To visit a plastic surgeon who's become a leading expert on booty augmentation surgery. Yes, you heard it right.... booty augmentation. The procedure has been around for some time now, but now there are actually TWO types of augmentation a less booty-full woman can opt for! It's incredible, and it's growing in popularity, if you can believe it.

As usual, I wont go into too much detail here, because that will spoil the film, but the doctor's name is Dr. Roberts and he's based in Spartanburg, South Carolina.

After the Brazil trip, I've just been wiped. Not sure if I caught some sort of bug down there, but I've been exhausted every day.... plus trying to screen the footage has been majorly time consuming.... we have 60 plus hours of content! Thank goodness I'm working with an editor I trust!

Plus, we had already used up most of our travel budget, so in order for us to get to South Carolina we had to do a little Expedia-affordable-but-not-necessarily-the-most-convenient-way-to-travel-booking through Expedia. Basically, a direct flight to South Carolina is about 2.5 hours.... our total travel time to get there via Expedia was more like 7 hours... landing in Charlotte NC via La Guardia NYC... and then a 1.5 hour drive to Spartanburg.... fun times. I won't even get into the details of our flight back, except that I got home 12 hours after I left Spartanburg. Oh ya, and I saw Victoria Gotti in the La Guardia airport. :)

Small town South Carolina doesn't have much to offer me. Because we did a fair bit of driving, most of the shots are just highway ones... and boy, do they like to clutter their highways with signs.

You can barely see this one but it's advertising the local "Cracker Barrel" -- a Southern country-style eatery.... very unlike anything I'd ever seen before. Sort of one of those "gotta try it once" joints like the good old Waffle House....

This one is neat -- there literally are DOZENS of fireworks warehouses all along the I-85 in SC... something to do with more stringent laws in NC? Dunno, but I wonder how they all do enough business to stay open. Didn't realize there was a huge market for fireworks.

This is funny... I actually visited this store.... with a specific goal -- to find some "booty humor" t-shirts. I had asked around, and locals had told me that because we were in the bible belt, we'd be hard pressed to find anything along the lines of "Southern Booty' paraphernalia. So I gave this place a shot... but it was beyond weird. It was located just off the highway, and you had to show your ID through a slot before they would buzz you in. So sketchy! And the place was pretty hopping for 4PM on a weekday... Anyhow, didn't find what I was looking for. There wasn't a single novelty thing in the place... let's just say it was all merchandise with very specific practical uses... I'll leave it at that.

This one's great -- a Waffle House sign AND a McDonald's side-by-side.... blech. I couldn't find a Starbucks in town so I had to grab a coffee from McDonald's one morning.... and I still can't get over the fact that there is no milk to be found for coffee. It's cream or coffee whitener. I don't get it.

We did manage to get to Greenville for dinner one evening and that is one lovely, bustling little city.... and sadly I didn't take any pictures. I mention this only because I don't want people thinking South Carolina is only what I've managed to snap pics of....

For example, look at these pretty dogwood trees in bloom.

Ohh! The Gaffney Peach! It's a watertower that looks like a BOOTY! How perfect!

This is our hotel -- a layout that is all too common in the southern part of the US -- the windows to the rooms are hermetically sealed, the lobby always smells of grease from the daily breakfast buffet. This location through me for a loop though -- the whole pool in the middle of the lobby is a new one. How is that relaxing? Especially when you can see everything that's going on from the glass elevator? Anyhow, not the end of the world. We were only there for 2 nights.

We pulled off the shoot and were on our merry way again in what felt like a flash...

Just to give you an idea of how we travel -- take a look at this gear. We're talking 7 hard cases of equipment, our personal stuff and a Carnet (paperwork that makes life hell and requires constant visits to American and Canadian Customs Officers)... Basically, this means getting to the airport 3 hours before each scheduled flight, massive excess baggage fees, stress, and hard work. Welcome to the world of travelling film crews....

I need a vacation.

Extreme Temperatures....

2007-03-19T12:37:00.000-07:00

This is more for my foreign readers and my Brazil colleagues....because us Torontonians are no strangers to the weather we face....

This photo was taken a mere day after I returned home from Brazil. Having never gone "South" for the winter, I don't think I've ever had tanned skin in this setting... notice how it stands out next to the snow!

Just a couple of days before, this was the setting.... I'm trying not to think about it too much because quite frankly it's going to make me depressed.

No surprise, my body was in a bit of shock with all of the extreme temperatures I've been exposing it to. But hey, at least I got a little taste of life South of the Equator, as opposed to none at all!

I think I'm dwelling because it's mid-Spring and it just snowed AGAIN! Enough already! I'm supposed to film one FINAL segment of streeters (man-on-the-street interviews) in Toronto but this weather sure is putting a damper on the plans... tushes are still in hiding!

It's all got to thaw soon.....

Goodbye to "Bunda"

2007-02-27T16:00:00.000-08:00

I should explain... I had stumbled across the word "bunda" while researching Brazil online months ago. It sounded like a cute way to reference the butt, so I had been using it in Rio. Until my crew mentioned it was a rather crude word (cue Tatyana blushing!). Sort of like 'ass', I supposed. Though I still like the word, I was told that "bum bum" (pronounced boom-boom) is a more playful and accepted way of referencing the mighty tush.

I was right, I didn't sleep. I tossed and turned... my brain was on hyperdrive, and I couldn't stop replaying what had already happened and imagining how the last few hours would unfold...

But the sun was out again and I was ready to hit the beach!

We had a mini-crew with us this morning as we headed for Copacabana. This is the life, I tell you. While the entire city was back to business as usual for the first time in weeks, there were still a lot of locals at the beach. Lolo mentioned to me that it wasn't uncommon for people to grab the morning paper and start their day on the beach.... oh my god, how heavenly! I can only imagine the screenplays I'd write with Ipanema as my vista....

And this, my friends, is the reason that Brazil is so famous. It's all true what they say about the bronzed women and bootys.... I was so moved to take this snap... what a booty!

So I got myself together, pulled on a cute tanga (traditional beach cover-up) over my new Brazilian bikini (no, I didn't have the guts to buy a total thong bottom, but that's also an urban legend -- most women really wear a hybrid between a normal brief bottom and a thong) and tried to ignore the people interested in observing our activities....and there were plenty. This will be the last scene of the film, so I was feeling a bit anxious to make it good.... I guess we'll see when the final product is ready! But the water was sparkling with early morning sunlight.... the sky was endless azure and the sun really did melt a big chunk of my inhibitions away in moments....

The sun was hot, limiting how many takes we could pull off... and as a final treat, Mark and I jumped into the ocean with Lolo! It had been 5 years since I'd swam in the ocean... and the familiar salty feeling was amazing.

It was 10:30 in the morning. And yes, I did indulge in a caipirinha. The last authentic one I'd have, so I justified it.

Cheers to a job well done for the foreigners at Copacabana Beach!!

Bikinis and Sand-bootys

2007-02-26T23:10:00.000-08:00

I woke up the next morning to be whisked off to a local mall by our Fixer. We visited a grocery store first for some fresh acai juice. Just peering around the produce section, I was in AWE at the fruit. Papayas the size of small watermelons, mangoes, cute, tiny South American bananas... and of course tons of passion fruit. How can one NOT be healthy with this much exotic fruit available and so cheaply?

Next, we ventured into the Rio Sul shopping centre. My efficient producer grabbed my hand and led me to a small handful of her favourite bikini shops (I couldn't get over how many there were -- far more than clothing stores for sure), told me we were running on a tight schedule today, and left me to try on and buy a Brazilian-style bikini. I've had stressful situations before, that's for sure. But this one was completely unexpected.... and incomparable to anything I had done. I have been working on this film in part because of my own body confidence issues.... and being in Brazil was supposed to boost my confidence, or at least that was the hope. But as I tried to select a bikini (they sell tops and bottoms separately, why isn't that the norm everywhere in the world?), in tiny little flourescently lit fitting rooms with barely enough room to look over my shoulder in the mirror at my butt in, and sales associates who were Brazilian-beauties with minimal English skills who kept checking in on me.... the anxiety returned. I had to think back to the day prior when I had seen women of all shapes and sizes on the beach in very tiny bikinis.... to rationalize why the bottoms were tiny little triangles.... I very nearly had a bit of a breakdown in the first store.... and then I had a moment... and just stopped being so hard on myself.

To their credit, bikinis might be mighty skimpy in Rio, but they are well-crafted like nothing I've ever seen before. Some that I picked up were almost too beautiful for just the beach -- embellishments, stones, ribbons, embroidery.... Not one to flash my goods on the beach, I ended up picking a very cute, simple style with a little bit of flair to remind me of Brazil... to hopefully wear with confidence... one day. :)

As I drooled over all of the amazing (and extremely affordable!) fashion in the windows, I cried a little inside because I knew I'd have no time to check them out. Maybe next time...

Oh, I never really mentioned our hotel. Work booked us into the Mercure Botafogo. It was the least pricey of the Mercure chain.... as it wasn't a "beachfront" property... but nice just the same. The coolest thing was how energy-efficient it was. Fans in the elevator wouldn't turn on unless sensors let them know someone had stepped into it. Same with the hallway lights.... and in order to get the lights, AC and tv working in the room, you had to put your room card in the slot! So as to prevent wastage of these things operating all day long....

The room was a suite, complete with a kitchen, and European style bathroom (no tub!). My only qualm was the army of teeny ants that took up residence with me. They were EVERYWHERE. And seemed to take a liking to my toiletries.... not fun. But all in all, I'd stay there again. Very affordable, safe location, and not too far from amenities.

Our crew met up and we drive out to the beach for our next shoot.

So I can't say there's ever really time for sightseeing on this production, unless it's THIS sort of sight-seeing....

These amazing sand sculptures are created by artists along Copacabana beach. Check them out -- maybe I've been sheltered, but I don't believe I've ever seen the female form sculpted from sand. How PERFECT for my film! (Thanks, Brad for the tip!)

Of course, for the traditionalists, there was this amazing castle/palace... Incredible!!

Of course, as we get ready to film a scene on the beach, the clouds start to roll in. Didn't even occur to me that it might rain mid-Summer in Rio. And, of course, the minute we had our gear set up for filming, the droplets started. We took shelter in the production van... and thankfully the rain sort of held off. But the beaches remained deserted, which was a bit of a 'bummer'.

My Brazilian "Booty Crew"! I have to hand it to the team... despite Lolo being the only one with English fluency, the gang was such a pleasure to work with. It was their light-hearted vibe that made this whirlwind trip so much more bearable! After only a couple of days, I was already starting to relax... which is a bizarre feeling during shooting. It's something intoxicating about the environment, the pace, the air, the people. You just can't continue your stress-case, fast-paced persona in Rio.

Last dinner in Rio. Ok, so we hadn't had enough of the meat or the ambiance. So we went for Brazilian steakhouse, AGAIN. And I continued my love-affair with caipirinhas....

They have a KEG of cachaca with complimentary shots as you walk into the restaurant.... I declined. Not on an empty stomach... I've learned this over the years....

The caipirinhas came afterwards, as you can see....

I love nothing more than the final meal after a block of shooting days.... it's become a bit of a tradition. I got to know the team a bit better, including our soundman's lovely assistant (and daughter!) Joanna and our PA (also filmmaker and Executive Producer in the Brazilian film scene) Tiago.

Despite my fatigue, I wanted to go out and samba the night away... But I was informed, after a non-stop party for the people of Rio for more than 2 weeks of Carnival, nothing was really open! Again, I remind my lovely readers that my travels really are about work! It was probably for the best, as we had decided to shoot one last and hopefully sun-shiney scene) early the next morning... to make up for the clouds today.

Only a few more hours left in Rio.... I wondered if I'd be able to sleep....

A Full Day in Brazil

2007-02-25T23:49:00.000-08:00

We were going to be cramming a LOT into our 2 1/2 days, 3 nights trip to Rio de Janeiro...

The next morning, we headed up Corcovado to see Christ the Redeemer, the most famous landmark in Rio. There is a tram that goes to the top, but with our large crew, it was better to drive. I've never been chauffered so much in my life as I was on this trip. Rio drivers are NUTS as well....

You can see everyone in our crew van craning their heads to check out the latest traffic jam... which in this case, was the parking lot nightmare at the top of the mountain.

It was a pretty and quick drive up.... and the sun was hot as we climbed the remaining stairs to the statue.

I was told Cariocas like to spend the weekend walking up to the top, picnic-ing and then walking back down!

I had to fight my way through the throngs of people to check out the amazing view.

And my PA, Tiago, insisted I do the "classic pose"....

The breeze was amazing and I spent a long time just gazing out at the city and the ocean. We had the time to spare because Lolo was busy negotiating with the authorities.... apparently the landmark had recently come under the authority of the Catholic Church and film crews had to apply for permission, something that no one on our crew had been aware of. Ah, the challenges of filming "reality".

Once we got back, we headed to the Ipanema 'hippie' market to check out some local goods. As Mark grabbed a walking shot, you can see that our security man was never far behind...

And moments later, I fell in love! (those who know me will know that I'm being overdramatic). He was playing a traditional instrument common to Capoeira (I don't know what it's called). And he was stunning! I think it was the muscles that did it for me.... Anyhow, back on topic....

So THIS is what Brazilian men look like.....

Not bad, not bad at all... :)

I also got my first peek at the famous "Brazilian bikinis". Let's just say that they were VERY small, and I wasn't convinced that everyone did in fact wear them this small. But I was soon going to find out...

Next, we went to the famous Ipanema beach. It was Sunday and the last day before most people would be back to work after Carnival. So the beach was PACKED! And yes, there were tushies aplenty. It was an endless sea of booty! And really, there were booties of all sizes, but all fully on display in very small bikini bottoms. Just sitting on that crowded beach and watching how ininhibitedly the women carried on, I felt my own anxieties begin to dissipate. It was incredible.... This was a culture of women that new how to flaunt it's best "asset". Oh yes, and the men did too -- I don't think I saw a single male bum-bum in surfer shorts! What a delightful afternoon of eye candy!

(Mark, inspired by the booty on the beach)

Our crew set up camp on the beach. And I got to enjoy some coconut water straight out of the coconut and some fried cheese on a stick (curious beach-food, but definitely yummy!)

On Ipanema beach, when the sun sets, the beachgoers always clap. Just thinking about this gives me shivers! It's a beautiful guesture. And when I witnessed the beauty of the sun over the water, I couldn't help but join in.

It was absolutely breathtaking and inspiring.

But it was time to EAT.

We went to Porcao, a Brazillian steakhouse franchise, that put all other buffet I've ever had to shame. I've never consumed so much meat in my life. And it was such a social way to eat, too!

The skewers kept coming.... and soon enough I figured out that if I wanted more, I had to flip my little round card to:

And if I was full, to:

This evening marked two "firsts" in my lifetime -- My introduction to Brazillian steakhouse-style eating and my introduction to CAPIRINHAs.... More on these tasty little devils later...

Last Day of Carnival

2007-02-25T03:21:00.000-08:00

Several hours after we arrived in Rio, our crew stepped into THIS....

It was the final day of Carnival -- the winner's parade where the top 5 samba schools had the chance to dance and celebrate one last time. Rights for Carnival are owned by TV Globo, and because our trip was such short notice, we didn't have a permit to film inside the Sambodrome... so we joined the party going on outside. I can't really liken it to anything else... except perhaps when the Greeks won Euro 2006...

So my trusty cameraman Mark and I were joined by the Brazilian Contingent of "What A Booty!" We had been connected to a lovely woman named Lolo, who is an actress and producer in Rio. And probably one of the most fluent English-speaking women in the city, in my opinion! She was a whirlwind of energy that swept me along with her and quite frankly, is a big part of the reason I was able to keep going.... I was just PROPELLED forward!

In North America, my crew is Camera + Sound and if my producers are feeling generous and the need is there, a Production Assistant. That is the number of people you need to make a documentary. In Brazil, our crew consisted of:

- Field Producer/Fixer
- Director (ME!)
- Camera
- Sound
- Sound ASSISTANT
- Production Assistant
- Van driver
and SECURITY!

This last one blew my mind but it wasn't negotiable. It was common practice to hire a security guard for film crews in Brazil. If you weren't safe walking around with an expensive watch or digital camera, I could just imagine how tempting camera equipment would look to the less-fortunate. Our security guard was always a few paces ahead or behind, depending on the situation, and his eyes always watching for trouble (and a gun tucked under his shirt).

We also had to bribe the police to let us pass through the gridlocked streets.... a lot of this went by in a blur, with all of the commotion and back-and-forth jabbering in Portuguese.... Talk about culture shock! Less than 24 hours ago I was in Toronto and here I was, in the midst of CHAOS!!
If we were being paranoid, let me tell you what I experienced pulling out my camera to take a few snaps of the street parties near the Sambodrome. I immediately had a dozen or so eyes on me... it was surreal. Apparently only the uber-rich have digicams in Brazil.

And if people see a camera flash, they get all excited and pose, no matter what!

This one's blurry but this group of kids spotted me from far away and came over to pose for a pic!

I'm sure my eyes are popping out of my head in all of the footage... it was a zoo, people dancing everwhere, music blasting, costumes.... and it was HOT.

I had to stop for some refreshment.... here I am with the lovely Lolo.
Though I was in Brazil to discover the mystery of the booty.... I witnessed something else on this evening. Men comfortable in their sexuality. Halloween in North America means men dressed up as heros... "manly" costumes... or scary ones. But here, as many men were dressed in pink tights, dresses and rouge as women. And this was NOT a gay parade. It was incredible. Truly incredible. All about the glitz, glamour and flamboyance. Here's a man passing through in his frilly costume...

I was also amazed at how COVERED so many of the costumes were. Whereas other Carnivals, for example Toronto's Caribana, are all about skin, Rio is far more elaborate and creative. There were clowns, women in wedding dresses...full-body parrot costumes... I can't even describe what I saw. I'll have to dig out some pictures I find on the web.... I know the 'mulatas' are a big lure for Carnival (the hottest, sexiest women in Brazil who dance on the highest floats in next to nothing), but from where we were filming, all we could see were the thousands of fully-costumed revelers -- through a fence!

Our security guard was so inspired by our mission that he even tried to negotiate with the Sambodrome staff to let our cameras in.... Bless him, but they were running a tight ship that night:

Our back up plan -- squeeze our way through the free stands. It turns out that a lot of "cariocas" (native Rio dwellers) have become disillusioned with Carnival over the years as it's become more commercial and expensive. It is the neighbourhood samba schools that have built up this event with their costumes and floats, and yet, these same neighbourhoods have a hard time affording tickets to the events. So in recent years, a small section of "free" stands have been made available....

Nevertheless, I, in "bumblebee mode", made the best of this exciting evening.

And the Skol is just a prop... though I did try an amazing Churro.... it was very close to heaven, I tell you. (Notice our security guard, always just a few paces away).

By 3AM, we had had enough of the noise, pushing our way through the crowds, and the heat.

I passed out cold.

En Route to Rio

2007-02-24T19:41:00.000-08:00

Do you like air travel in this day in age? I could write a book on it. I've actually come to a point where my journey through an airport and following of airport protocol is mechanic. But this flight to Brazil was by far the longest I had ever taken. Prior to this, my longest was to Greece -- 8 hours. Our flight to Brazil was through Air Canada, which lands in Sao Paolo and then we had to switch airports to fly to Rio. A total of about 15 hours travel time (fortunately with only a 3 hour time difference). AND, because of all of the drama with trying to get our VISAs really quickly (have you ever tried to muscle a foreign authority into doing something quicker over the phone??), we now had an itinerary that required us to fly overnite, make our connecting flight and then roll off the plane and right into the last day of Carnival festivities....

Thank goodness for sleeping pills (not mine). And thank goodness for short legs (mine).... I tell you.

In Toronto, I pleaded with the check-in staff to give me a window seat (no one to climb over me and wake me up) and they obliged! Even though when I did my electronic check-in all of the window seats were spoken for. Check-in staff really do have the power to make all sorts of things happen.... become their friend! It worked for me!

My seasoned traveler friends had suggested the following -- eat dinner on the plane, pop a sleeping pill, put on headphones with music, pull on an eyemask... and you'll wake up at your destination well rested. I couldn't afford to toss and turn, so after a meal of brown sludge (which apparently was beef, though the other brown sludge which was chicken basically looked the same), I did as I was told.... and I woke up in Brazil!

I barely remember Sao Paolo. I remember going to claim my luggage and seeing a lot of tanned skin everywhere. And it was the first time in my life I had seen so many female travellers in STILLETTOS. It was borderline ridiculous.... we're talking full-fledged party shoes. Also, there was a soccer game being broadcast at the luggage claim area, which had most of the mens' attention. This was Brazil! We found our way to the other airport, which was a loooooong airconditioned busride away. And we sampled our first Brazilian fare in the terminal. I wanted a coffee more than anything and couldnt find any iced kinds! Even in the 35 degree weather, your options were espresso or MATE -- ice tea. And of course, empanadas!! Mmmmmm.... This was the start of a feeding frenzy as I decided I had to try EVERYTHING I could while away. Once on the VARIG flight, I sampled another Brazilian original - Guarana pop. It's their national drink and tastes surprisingly like gingerale.... I also realized that I was in trouble with the minimal amount of Portuguese I knew....

So, we were cautioned against jumping into random cabs at the Rio airport, especially given our conspicious gear. We ordered a cab from inside the airport and within a half hour, were at our hotel in Botafogo. A quick shower and I might have blinked my eyes a few times... before we were rushing out the door for our first shoot!

Bunda-land!

2007-02-23T09:33:00.000-08:00

I am going to Brazil.

Yes, the land of "bunda" (Brazilian term for the fabulous fanny).

Hate me, envy me, but know this. I am going for 3 nights, the travel time will be around 15 hours EACH WAY, and by some miracle we need to roll off of our flight to Rio and start filming. In other words, I doubt I'll be lying on the beach or swimming at any point during this trip. Which is a travesty. But I have to keep reminding myself, I'm not on vacation, I'm working. Even in BRAZIL.

It's our last chance to catch any part of Carnival, which many consider to be the greatest show on earth and one of the experiences one must have before they die. That alone is reason enough to suffer through a bit of exhaustion and sweat.... Remember, it's minus 20 celsius here in Toronto. It's 35 celsius in Rio....

I am so grateful to my producers and coworkers who helped to pull this shoot together... I will go into more detail at some point of the AMOUNT OF WORK it took to make this trip happen -- including pulling no less than a small miracle getting a country on vacation to issue us travel VISAs... but for now, I've gotta get myself ready.

Will fill you in soon.... It's going to be like the most vivid dream I've ever had. I will wake up in 3 days and wonder if it really happend because it will already be over.

I just hope i don't get sick, hurt, heat-exhausted, robbed..... (just how does one quiet an inner-worrywart voice as strong as mine?)

Tatyana

Dreaming of Rio....

2007-02-22T19:15:00.000-08:00

I've been hard at work filming this documentary since November! And in the back of my mind, I always imagined ending my journey and wrapping in Brazil.

After all, Brazil is the land of naturally bronzed skin, tropical passion, samba, Brazilian bikinis, and healthy booty the likes of which you cannot find elsewhere in the world -- as in fit women with ample tushies... (yes, I've researched the subject thoroughly!) I've also been mesmerized by pictures and stories I've heard of Rio, Ipanema, and, of course, the greatest event in the world, Carnaval!

But, as we all know, TV production money is not limitless. And though I've been so lucky to have a pretty fair budget with which to make this film, a bit of cash has also fed my insatiable imagination. If you've been tagging along, you know that there have been many North American destinations.... when you add a traveling crew, equipment (and the considerable 'excess baggage fees')...incidentals... well, cash goes quickly. So South America always seemed very much out of reach.

And yet, I hoped... and daydreamed.

Fortunately, I happen to have the most fabulous producers on Earth, and in exchange for my first-born (jk!), I was told a few weeks ago that we could make a short shoot in Brazil possible. Which brings me back to October, when I was in research phase on this film. My researcher had pulled out the dates for Carnival 2007 in Rio and I had naively said: "Oh, we'll be long wrapped production by then!" Well it was now the 2nd week in February and we were suddenly under the gun to try to pull all of the logistics together in a couple of weeks! We definitely couldn't afford the heavily inflated prices of travelling in the heart of the Carnival week (Feb 25).... but we could definitely afford to catch the tail end of the festivities.... if only we could get our act together quick enough.

The challenges that lay ahead:

- neither my Production Manager nor I had never planned a shoot in South America (transcontinental travel logistics)
- neither of us spoke Portuguese.... which really does come in handy as English is very uncommon in Brazil
- I was away on an important shoot in Vegas a week before we were trying to head to Brazil, making it hard for me to focus on anything else
- Brazil was on VACATION! Now, I've always understood how some countries have major holidays (usually with religious or nationalistic roots)... but I never expected for a city like Rio to be SHUT DOWN for a couple of days of parading. Naive, indeed! Shut down were the offices of ANCINE, the film division of the government, who basically were the missing link in our Temporary Visa application process...
- and of course, add to all of this the little subtleties of working with an entirely different culture with different work ethics and approaches. We had connected indirectly with a "fixer" (a documentary term for a field producer in a foreign country) and she was lovely on the phone, but clearly had her way of doing things and was trying very hard to communicate to us just what sort of society we were coming into. And just how DO you convey something like that on the phone?

And then there was the pressure. The pressure to build a shoot that would deliver footage that would greatly surpass what we were spending on the trip! Having never been to Brazil, all I could do was imagine the settings, how things would play out.... It was enough to cause many sleepless nights. Of course, the film was not ABOUT Brazil, so we couldnt justify spending a week or more there. But was I ready to make such a major trip for just a couple of days? Those were the options. I'd travelled to Europe, North America... but never South America. And quite frankly, I was nervous. There are always horror stories of tourists getting robbed all over the world, but when you have LOCALS who immediately tell you to be "very careful" in Rio, it's enough to feel unsettled. I always try to be inconspicuous, but I don't always succeed....

You've certainly stepped into the mind of a gal seriously torn.... but this is BRAZIL we are talking about!

My imagination wins out, this time....

Far from a Sinner in Sin City

2007-02-17T17:25:00.000-08:00

Disclaimer: If you're expecting a tale of debauchery that normally describes a trip to Vegas, you'll be greatly disappointed. I've been to Vegas a total of 2 times now -- and both times for business! Only in Tatyana's life does the Sin City become Sin-less.

(ah, another booty-worshipping city!)

(running-on-adrenaline-only Tatyana)

Twice annually, fashion designers and fashion brands descend upon Vegas for the annual MAGIC trade show. It's basically one of the biggest buyer/sellers market for the retail industry in the world. And with the amount of celebrities afflilated with fashion these days, the show can turn into a minor star-studded affair.

The last time I was in Vegas was for a research trip, to meet jeans designers catering to the ever-wonderful fuller booty. Not full-figured, just fuller booty-ed. While there are larger brands like Apple Bottoms and Baby Phat were in attendance, I was pleasantly surprised to uncover a hidden gem -- PZI Denim. An African-American husband-and-wife team from Atlanta. Before PZI, to my knowledge, only "urban" brands were designing bootylicious denim. For a gal not interested in brand heavy, "junior" designs, the search for denim has always been a crapshoot. In fact, I'd reached a point where I wasn't wearing denim all that much.

PZI jeans are cut with a more mature, classier woman in mind. But they are still trendy and flattering!

Ok, enough backstory. If you want to read more about them, you can stroll back through the archives.

I won't give you details as to why I was in Vegas specifically, but let's just say it was to finish up my "journey" with this jeans company. In between filming, we wandered about the tradeshow, checking out some booty and scoping out celebrities.

I met the infamous owner of the Girls Gone Wild brand, Joe Francis.... spotted Flavor Flav, which is always pretty funny. He was there with his MOM!

(Flav and entourage at the Baby Phat booth)

Also, Gene Simmons was making an appearance, so after a bit of coaxing from my crew, I approached his Publicist about my project and asked if Gene would comment on booty for us on camera. His publicist explained that this wouldnt be possible based on all of the legalities of Gene representing his many brands.... but that he did want to meet me. I didn't know what to do. I am probably one of a small handful of people who didn't even really know who KISS was until a couple of years ago... I've lived a sheltered existense. So what was I going to say? I was hardly his biggest fan. So I came over, and before I could say anything, Gene grabbed my hand, spun me around and began to waltz with me, in front of everyone!! As we danced, he asked me about my project, commended me on it and asked me if my own booty was going to be featured. When I admitted that it was, he seemed very satisfied! It was such a blur.... I rememeber people snapping pictures and me shaking Gene's hand, and then that was that. Sadly, I have no evidence to prove this all happened. But my crew will attest to it!

I have to thank Hugh, Gene's Publicist, and a fellow friendly Canuck, for making this little meet-and-greet possible!

We finished up filming with PZI, who were gearing up for a busy week.... I am not sure when I will see these amazing folks again, but I am behind them every step of the way.... and my booty is too!

(Daniel & Claire Jason and me!)

(The Crazy Girls Revue Monument -- with the famous tagline "No Ifs, Ands or Butts about it!")

So when we finally wrapped after an intensely long day, we had a bit of time to chill out. I blew 60$ on slots (I'm sticking to Niagara Falls' Fallsview Casino from now on -- the slots there like to WIN me money)... Then of course we had to eat.

(crew shot - I work with the best people!)

It's always such a gamble picking a spot for one good meal with limited time in a foreign city. We treated ourselves to a well-deserved meal at SENSI, in the Paris Hotel. Great great great food! It started out with some seafood appetizers and then I had the most amazing scallops and eggplant ravioli main..... mmmmmm... then the waiter brought us a nice little boite of tiny yummy cookies which we nibbled on... a good end to a dinner and a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth when you don't have any actual room left in your belly.

(A Chinese New Year display in the Paris hotel)

Apparently we were in Vegas a couple of days before the biggest weekend in the history of the city -- with all of the fashion designers in town AND the NBA all-star game AND Chinese New Year! Madness in Vegas.... and probably nowhere to party, with the celebs buying out all of the hottest clubs for their own private parties this weekend.

(going a little loopy from all the excitement)

(the paradise everyone ELSE at the Flamingo hotel seemed to have time to enjoy.. we were just passing through)

The Flamingo hotel itself is an aging building. We booked the budget rooms and definitely got what we payed for. The newer rooms are apparently state of the art. These were so unimpressive that I didn't even take my obligatory snapshot of them. But hey, it was a fairly clean bed in a quiet room.... it did the job. And we were barely in it.

LATEST "THINGS I'VE LEARNED" LIST:

I've become quite a master at North American airports, but even so, I'm still learning....
Things I learned on this particular trip:

- do not book connecting flights through Denver in the winter (the delays were beyond insane.)
In fact, after a sweaty dash through the airport, we did make our 7PM connection to Vegas... but our bags didn't. Which meant we had to stay up until they came in on a later flight and were delivered...which in our case ended up being 3AM! I actually did fall asleep, fully clothed on the hotel bed for a little catnap while waiting. I woke up with my contacts severely glued to my dry eyeballs.... nice, huh? Then I drifted off to sleep for another 4 hours before we had to start our day. If anyone thinks I'm disgustingly lucky because of all the travelling I get to do, they should consider how ridiculous our travel/shoot schedules are....

- consider taking a shuttle to your Vegas hotel
Anyone else experience the taxi lines? We're talking several hundred people long. Even at 9PM at nite! I wanted to take a picture but with people probably feeling as grumpy as they looked, it probably would have been a bad move.

-check into your flight early
This one wasn't really our fault --this time. But in our mad dash to make the Vegas connecting flight, we ended up being the last to board a full flight. The only spot left was a middle seat between a nice old man who smelled funny and a severely overweight man who looked uncomfortably crammed into his seat. NOT on my list of best flights, that's for sure.

- even if you are trying to be extremely efficient and packing light, ALWAYS bring comfy shoes.
Ok, so this isn't a point that anyone other than myself should take note of. I had a temporary lapse of judgement here because I generally travel in runners. But because we were only going to be in Vegas for one full day, I opted for my "small" suitcase. The other bag I own is one that I've taken on month long vacations. This meant I could pack only one pair of shoots and wear one. So, I put one pair of heels for going out (wishful thinking!) into my suitcase and wore a pair of high heeled boots for the rest. I really think I would have been fine, but after 3 days straight on my feet in the boots, my feet gave up. It was around the point where we stood in the airport check in line for a good 45 minutes on the way back to Toronto. Flights were delayed AGAIN because of Denver. And my feet just gave up. I'm a fighter and I've endured long periods of time in painful shoes but this experience was like no other. I was probably the only person over age 3 that trekked through the airport from that point forward in my socks.

(my poor, poor feet!)

(the offending footwear -- why do they have to be so cute!?!)

Wow, long post! I'm finally seeing the light at the end of all of this filming... only a few more shoots to go....

Tatyana

Accept my apologies!

2007-02-16T11:50:00.000-08:00

Sorry sorry sorry!!!

Too long between updates...

I just returned from a 3 day whirlwind trip to Vegas and I can honestly say that for the first time since we started filming back in November, I am completed exhausted. And no, I can't blame the fatigue on all of the sinning I did in Sin City, because work took up any free time I had!

I will update with details today, for sure!

Alive and barely kicking,
Tatyana

Arnold goes to Carnival in Rio

2007-02-08T20:07:00.001-08:00

Funniest thing ever!

Going back to Vegas!

2007-02-05T08:18:00.000-08:00

It is minus 30 degrees celsius today -- and the office is only slightly warmer.
So, the good news is, I'm going to VEGAS for a few days next week. It's to follow progress on our lovely denim storyline with PZI jeans. And it involves me and their ad campaign. I'm getting anxious just thinking about it all.... so I wont.

Tatyana

Recruiting for TEAM BOOTY

2007-02-01T07:45:00.000-08:00

(really low res cameraphone pics)

I took a little break from the daily grind to attend the Justin Timberlake concert on Tuesday night. I figure if you're going to get to know me through my blogs or through watching "What A Booty!", I might as well not keep secrets....

As I expected, the Air Canada Centre was packed to the rafters with women of all ages... and a handful of guys on dates :) It's actually quite fascinating to see how women respond to such 'idols'. I was out for dinner just prior to the show, and a table-full of women in their late thirties were gushing about his hotness and taking turns going around the table and saying what they would say to Justin if they met him. Then, at the concert, a group of tween girls in the row in front of us were just out of control. The moment for me was when one belted out: "Justin, I want to have sex with you!" Parents, do you know where your children are?

But the reason I bring up Justin, aside from the fact that I think he is an amazing talent, a great performer and super sexy... is because some of his lyrics have really motiated me. Here is a white dude not unlike the white dudes I grew up with (the same guys that would only go ga-ga over the gals with big racks) who makes constant cheeky reference to the cheeks. Even with his major fame, we haven't seen him canoodling with any buxom Playboy models. In fact, he's recently been linked by the gossip rags to Scarlett Johanssen (remember her booty shot in Lost in Translation?) and the Caucasian answer to JLO -- Jessica Biel.

Lyrics in tribute:

"She looks like a model, except she's got a little more ass"
"Turn around and let me see just what you're curved like"

Justin is clearly a memeber of TEAM BOOTY. And we're glad to have him.

The highlight of the night, from a booty perspective, was when he performed "Damn Girl" -- revamped to have a burlesque theme. One of the lead dancers was wearing a sassy little corset and a thong!!! Most of the choreography for this song was all around shaking her round little tush! Woohoo!

Another booty celebrator in our midst!

Bootyful Fitness!

2007-01-27T13:44:00.000-08:00

I filmed another segment last week -- the FIRST in Toronto so far, if you can believe it.

We drove north of the city to film with Tosca Reno, a former fitness competitor and current author, fitness model and mom (I'm not even sure that I've covered ALL of her roles). It's pretty incredible that I've been buying Oxygen Magazine since the early days of University, and had probably read endless columns and seen Tosca's photo demonstrating workouts numerous times, and never thought that our paths would one day cross.

You might be wondering why I'd be filming with a fitness pro if my film's on butts. I've had people say to me: people who do "fitness" (and I guess they really mean cardio and weight-training that trims down) don't have butts. First of all, to me fitness means cardio+weight training... and the latter, I know for a fact, also is great at building muscles as opposed to just toning them. Secondly, though I'm making a film on accepting your booty as is.... I am not advocating being UNHEALTHY!

I think this is an important distinction. I grew up with a very health-conscious family. I think back to the meals of my childhood: cream of wheat or something from the health food store called "bear mush" for breakfast, raisins and panda natural licorice for snacks.... I remember eating yogurt before yogurt had really caught on as a mainstream treat.... I think, in a way, my imposed super healthy diet was too restrictive and resulted in some major candy binges in my "rebellious tween years"... but ultimately, the groundwork was laid out for an awareness of healthy eating.

And I've always been athletic too.... In grade school and particularly in middle school (when girls were beginning to realize they were "girls" and as such, needed to do appropriate "girl" things... such as watching the boys play sports), myself and a couple other "tomboys" would play sports along with the same guys. This was back before I realized that I was more muscular than most other girls... but in sports, this was to my advantage.

Playing sports from a young age has also made me realize that I'm going to insist my children -- sons or daughters -- take up recreational sports early in life and stick to them... especially as they hit puberty. I feel strongly that this allows girls a fighting chance of not developing major body image issues and eating disorders. I can see how an activity like ballet might perpetuate image issues at the age puberty begins... so I'm thinking more along the lines of tennis, soccer...soccer, especially!

Anyhow, in my particular case, I think I started off on the right track and sort of lost touch with my sporty side -- as I already had my body image issues as I entered high school. Case in point: I was the only "bottom heavy" girl on our cross-country running team. Really funny because I totally contradicted the tall, lithe physique generally associated with the sport -- I really had more of a spriter's physique! I also played volleyball (again, breaking the mold as a shortie on the team) but with the bonus of having a killer overhand serve (thank you biceps!) and soccer.... This was also around the time that I'd feel really disturbed when older men would approach me and ask if I "worked out". This was before working out was more commonplace. And I didn't understand what they were referring to. Did they mean lift weights? That would suggest I was a musclebound chick, because only bodybuilders did that (remember, this was the early 90s...) Was it a compliment? What made them think I "worked out"? And how could they tell this about me when I was fulled clothed? It plagued me for a long time... and eventually, I got better about it. I also realized that toned arms, and especially developed quads, hams, and glutes, are hard to hide. They fill out yout clothes in a certain way. My confidence grew even more when I actually started "working out" and realized how easily I could build muscle while many others really struggled to... But anyhow...

I've gone on a major tangent....At least now you know why fitness is important to me ....back to Tosca.

She is a major inspiration to me because she's had THREE KIDS and now in her forties, is at the peak of her fitness... She works hard at it and now wants to share her techniques with other women. Fitness has transformed her life.

It's fascinating to me that she was once a heavier woman who got serious about losing weight and discovered a flatt butt underneath the extra pounds. So, whereas I believe I came out of the womb with a curvy bottom, Tosca had to CREATE hers, through her own hard work and not some doctor's handiwork.

How fabulous is she???

With a face and body like that, she could probably get away with being a diva.... but, she's extremely down-to-earth! She draws you in, you get the sense that she really understands you and wants to sympathize with you. Her "motto" or "tagline" is "I'm always listening".... and it's not a cheesy gimmick. From spending the day with her, I really could see this amazing quality about her.

Although Tosca's got her hands full -- I initially stumbled upon her when I discovered "The Butt Book" -- her book about how to build a healthy butt through a good diet and fitness..... this is just the tip of the iceberg! And as she bounded here and there in between takes during the filming, I realized that this was one woman who could not slow down.... the world is her oyster and she wants to take it all in. Her latest book "The Eat Clean Diet" is selling like hotcakes. Who knows what the buzz will spawn next!

I also got to meet some of the amazing people behind (or probably more appropriately beside and even in front of) Tosca -- her hubby Robert Kennedy, her lovely makeup artist Franca and her competition outfit designer Berns. You really get a sense of a person by the types of people they surround themselves with -- and this group is such a positive, healthy, go-getter bunch!

The best part about the whole day, other than filming an incredible segment, is the fact that I wanted to be healthier by the end of the day. Having spent all day observing her lifestyle, her commitments to healthy eating and training, and the sacrifices she makes, I didn't leave Tosca's feeling like I was guilted into being better with my diet and lifestyle... I was motivated and inspired into being better. And I think this is why so many women are drawn to her and why she'll do well with more seminars and workshops....

Check her out! She's Canadian-born and bred, folks!

www.toscareno.com

Even fitness can be bootyful!

A Glorious moment for "America"!

2007-01-17T22:53:00.000-08:00

So I post about my greatest nightmare -- a world full of clones. And a day later, America Ferrera wins a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Comedy!

I've loved her ever since I saw her in Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants. Now I definitely need to see "Real Women Have Curves", especially based on the film I'm making.

She would be a GREAT interview. I should try?

Anyhow, my heart almost burst with joy at her speech and at this incredibly significant moment in the progress of women and body image. And also the fact that she made a point to mention what this means to young girls all over the country who write to her specifically to let her know that they can identify with her and are overjoyed to see someone "like them" on TV.

This is what I'm trying to do with my film. Present a new breed of role models for young girls that did not exist when I was growing up.

It will be exciting to follow America and how her career changes and evolves as a result of this monumental accomplishment!

Feeling inspired....
Tatyana

LA -- Known for its Hips & Curves???

2007-01-17T15:57:00.000-08:00

I'm just a bit more than halfway through filming... hard to believe considering how much we've been through already!

Hopped on another plane and flew from San Francisco to LA. We were eager to hit Venice Beach and hopefully get some lovely beach booty shots. Of course, the cold spell followed us and spoilt that plan. I still find it ironic that I escape to California to escape Toronto's cold, and I keep being confronted with winter weather! While we were in LA, pretty much the entire citrus crop was frozen solid by the frigid air!

It may have been cold outside....but indoors, things were about to turn steamy with our next shoot!

Presenting... Hips & Curves online lingerie. Deliciously sexy lingerie for the full-figured woman. If anyone knows how to work a plentiful tushie, it's these ladies!

Hottest part of the day: the fact that voluptuous women can rock lingerie like no other women can....

Funniest part of the day: the priceless expressions of the handful of delivery guys who peeked into the office (complete with burgundy boudoir set right smack in the middle of it!) and quickly shut the front door again -- they all totally thought they had walked in on a PORN shoot!

Most inspiring moment of the day: ALL of it. Thus far, this particular shoot and the women behind it have left the most powerful impression on me:

Brandi and Jonnie, the models who spoke to me about the pressure to be thin in La-La Land and growing up with butts that boys didn't necessarily covet...
Kizzie, the lighting director, who shared her passion to direct an incredible film featuring young girls that I would bend over backwards to help her with....
Veronica, the makeup artist, who has close ties to the burlesque world and who affirmed that my decision to explore this community was a good one...
Marcy, the style-maven-with-the-mostest -- for her warm, cheerful and supportive spirit. Her initial timidness on camera reminded me of how I get on camera...
And finally, Rebecca, the brains behind this incredible team and company. She was tireless, positive, and extremely accommodating. She turned on the charm and even became an on-camera host... and I will never forget that she was the conduit to meeting this lovely group of women.

To meet such a collective of strong women in a place like LA has been so gratifying for me. In the 2 times I've been here, I've managed to avoid Hollywood and Beverly Hills, and more or less the superficial, plastic side to this city. Instead, I've been able to wander through Santa Monica and Venice and meet talented, healthy and downright beautiful women.

Oh ya, and the lingerie was hot too. :)

What Is Beauty?

2007-01-16T09:20:00.000-08:00

(photo from www.africanheritage.com)

I'm climbing on my soapbox today... be forewarned!

I've never really bought into the mainstream media's and Hollywood's definition of "beauty". Or the "ideals" they promote. While I do feel that we've definitely evolved and now bear witness to a much more diverse range of "faces" in the media than I experienced as a child.... I still feel as though, on the whole, the same ideal continues to be being chased by young girls.

I have always felt a bit different, in that I am a Caucasian woman who is not blonde, blue-eyed, and slim. It's made my "place" harder to locate and I'm still hard pressed to find media role models that I feel reflect my build and look. When Jennifer Lopez appeared in Selena, I could barely catch my breath. Could it be? A woman with HIPS and BUTT wearing skin tight white pants and causing a sensation? Yes, it was a triumph and a sigh of relief. But JLo is Hispanic and reflects a body type many Hispanic women have. As a "white gal" with some mediterannean features and a figure the origins of which I cannot pinpoint, I'm constantly questioning where I belong. Then there was Beyonce, who is both Caucasian and African-American -- but her hips have always been attributed to her black roots. It seems as though every time a white celebrity appears that I even begin to feel I can identify with, they whittle themselves away (Kelly Clarkson, Jenna Von Oy....).

I know that we are social beings and look for comfort in familiarity. I've looked for that familiarity and have not found it. This is perhaps why why I've always been a bit different from the general public in my outlook. I've developed into a person who finds true beauty in diversity. I am mesmerized by the uniqueness of a person's face, I gravitate towards defining features, I revel in what makes a person stand out.

Think about it for a second. What is real beauty? At the risk of sounding like a preachy DOVE ad, really think about it. If we all looked the same (or made efforts to achieve this sameness), would the world not be a boring, generic place?

Reflecting on the teen girls I see out there, a disturbing homogeneity becomes apparent -- the platinum-blonde-streaked hair, the eyebrows plucked into rail thin arches, the caked on makeup (especially black eyeliner) that doesn't necessarily flatter their unique complexions and colouring. I can appreciate the struggle to discover one's place in the world (ah, those memorable, tumultuous adolescent years!) and discovering one's identity. It's a phase we all go through in our quest to find ourselves. But how do we go about teaching and promoting the EMBRACING of our uniqueness as opposed to the pursuit of sameness?

I've had daydreams/nightmares about a society 100 years in the future where all diversity and variety has vanished. We're seeing it happen with the Big Box stores and globalization and gentrification. But the power of Hollywood and Paris Hilton reaching further and further, who's to say this universality doesn't one day affect the very appearance of the human race?

It's not fair to knock Paris. In many ways, I do respect that she maximizes the way she looks (although who knows what "look" she was actually born with). She hasn't gone the way of Barbie and inflated her chest, and actually WORKS WITH the fact that she is a thin, small chested woman. There's something to be said for that. However, she still does represent a singular beauty standard that we are seeing rippling througout the world.

My personal nightmare: a world of clone-like women. Which would explain why making films with diversity are so important to me. Maybe I won't change people's opinions, but I'm giving voice and exposure to women that I choose to identify and celebrate.

It is what makes us DIFFERENT that makes us BEAUTIFUL.

This has become my motto.

Tatyana

The Shimmy - San Francisco-Style!

2007-01-15T13:03:00.000-08:00

After another day of lugging equipment and travelling, we're now in San Francisco!

The last time I was here, it was summer and I literally boarded a flight in LA in the morning, landed in San Francisco and spent the day meeting with a burlesque dancer by the name of "Kellita", before I boarded my plane and flew back to LA that night. The first day-trip flight of my life!

So this time around, I was a little better prepared. For the sporadic weather (a scarf and gloves, even though it was supposed to be balmy) and comfy shoes (not the platform espadrilles I climbed up and down Powell St. in last time).

Sure enough, the cold snap had followed us and I kept overhearing that San Francisco is never this cold in January! Suited me just fine as it was basically Toronto fall weather, which I love!

Another boutique hotel.... and another chunk of change in tips gone. But the Serrano hotel was just lovely! The rooms were super tiny and my mess was such that I opted to NOT take a photo of it. But if you're looking for an affordable place to stay in San Fran, I'd recommend the Serrano. Centrally located, nicely furnished and decorated, free wine tastings in the lobby each evening, and an awesome gym! There is nothing more unmotivating then stumbling down to work out early in the morning, only to discover a hotel's idea of a "gym" is a rickety old treadmill and possibly a stepper.... not the case here! So I took full advantage.

Ok, so because of our early flight, I had ample time to explore. Which resulted in a trip to Union Square and the main downtown mall. I was pleasantly surprised to see that Boxing Week apparently leads well into January and I scored some incredible deals. Need to make a career of this, I tell you!

But on to the real reason we were here -- the Lovely Kellita of Hot Pink Feathers! She won me over during my scouting/research trip with her incredible charisma and super-cute booty-shimmying samba-moves. I got to meet her other troupmates Kerricita and Trecita -- modern dancers-turned-burlesque performers.

I must admit -- this is one of the best gigs I've ever had! I get to meet all of these fabulous woman and draw strength from them....

(Oh ya, and watch them put on makeup.... which is always fun!)

How could you NOT be transfixed by these pretty-in-pink'n'orange ladies!

(just a little tease.... the picture not the girls!)

Kellita, thank you for donning a bikini in a freezing studio space and shimmying your tush off for my film! You and your ladies are a vision and if I could learn to move like that even just a smidge, I'm sure I'd be beating the men off with a stick!

Baby Got Back -- even Back in the Day!

2007-01-13T14:57:00.000-08:00

Wow... time flies!

I returned last week from an intense little "West Coast" filming trip and realized, it's been a WEEK and I still haven't posted about it!

I've reprimanded myself and I am now moving on.

So here's the lowdown:

Last trip: 3 cities in 6 days

Challenge: Shoot 3 really cool segments in very time-crunched situations

Complications: 2 travelling crew members (including me) and 12 bags of gear, including personal stuff... a crazy freak winter storm following us from Toronto across to the West Coast... 3 hour time difference (you chuckle, but I get loopy when I'm thrown off my normal sleeping schedule) and boutique-style hotels (more on this later)

Bright side: I'm officially a professional airport hustler! (not the gangster-kind of "hustlelah" but rather one in transit who hustles quickly and effectively)

First stop -- Seattle

It didn't even occur to me to check the forecasts but a day prior, Mother Nature had unleashed a crazy snowstorm (which in this part of the world, means about 2 centimetres...or slightly more, hah!). So the city was strangely quiet. It was as if the snow had thrown people off kilter and they panicked and stayed home. The day before, roads had been closed, there were accidents a plenty.... Bizarre stuff! Of course, I didn't realize there had been a storm until I watched the news that first night -- so my first impression of Seattle was a bit of a ghost town!

(Seattle snow -- yes, I'm serious!)

To make things worse, I had been trying to kick a bug I had recently caught. I didn't manage to get better before the trip and as a result, I endured some major ear popping and pain on the plane. I've always had some problems with this, but the last few flights hadn't bothered me so I thought I was finally getting accustomed to cabin pressure. No such luck. As the plane full of babies bawled around me, I silently wept with them. To make matters worse, one ear got blocked and didn't unblock until the next day. So I got a little taste of what old age might bring me -- as I leaned in to catch conversations with my "good" ear. Annoying? Yes. Even more annoying: my ears proceeded to pop randomly for the next 3 days! I will never fly with a cold again!

So we check into our hotel -- the Warwick. Nice enough place. Reminded me of the older New York hotels. Since I always post hotel room photos, here you go:

(my room, before I unleashed my usual mass of stuff on it)

It was a nice change of pace to the Days Inns and the Best Westerns I had become accustomed to in production. I like a hotel with a bit of personality! Unfortunately with a boutique-hotel comes a tonne of staff to tip. Don't get me wrong -- I ALWAYS tip for service. But I like to take care of myself and when I'm not permitted to grab a bellcart to transport my own gear, or park my own car, I get nervous. It's not really about the money.... I just like to be self-sufficient (did you catch that, future suitors?). And I guess it does become about the money when you have TWELVE bags and a valet, a doorman, and a bellhop with palms to grease. Pros and cons to everything I suppose....

The next day, we got geared up to drive out to film with SIR MIX-A-LOT!

Yes, my childhood idol had agreed to participate in my little film! My cameraman Mark and I met up with our local soundman Scott and headed out to the burbs. Apparently, Seattle has something like TWO snowplows in all of the city which tells you how often they get the white stuff. So some of the roads turned out to be closed...which required some manoeuvering. In fact, Sir Mix-A-Lot himself finally had to come rescue us and take us through an alternate route! Talk about a genuine, down-to-earth guy!

While we waited for him to claim us, I checked out the lamas. Don't ask....

(contrary to what I first thought, they came over not as a friendly guesture but because they thought it was feeding time)

So we finally made it to Casa Mix-A-Lot, discussed the game plan and got to work. Will I dish more? Nope! It'll be a surprise!

The segment is going to be fab! And it means so much to me to have this man in my film. I got the opportunity to tell him that to this day, when"Baby Got Back" comes on the radio or a dj spins it at a club, I strut my stuff with pride. I told him how, as kids, it was super cool to recite by heart every single word of the suggestive lyrics (back then the only thing I thought about "I'm long, and I'm strong and I'm down to get the friction on" was "oh cool! All the words rhyme!")... ah, childhood innocence....

It was a bit of a shock, though, to realize that though the song feels playful in its delivery, the gentleman certainly has an interest beyond just bowing down to the booty. On the day of our shoot, I realized that the song wasn't written to empower women but to profess a true fetish for booty-lovin. I suppose this caught me by surprise because the songs today on the subject are just so blatant in their message and I assumed Mix's cheekier approach meant a less red-blooded-male-minded.

I hope I get to pull off an un-cut version because some of the footage we filmed is priceless! And completely inappropriate for broadcast television...

(Sir Mix-A-Lot and I in front of his wall of album sales award-goodness)

Thanks again, Mix!!

Failing Blogger-School....

2007-01-08T10:27:00.000-08:00

I've posted a few delinquent posts from December about Chicago, so please scroll down to check them out.

Who would have thought regular blogging would have been so hard? Ok, so I've slapped myself on the wrist and I'm moving on!

:)
T

Sir Mix A Lot - Baby Got Back

2007-01-04T19:41:00.001-08:00

We've all seen and heard it before. But when was the LAST time you've seen it? It's amazing how playful and innocent this video looks now up against the video vixens and violence of today's offerings. And to think this video was BANNED by MTV back in the day.... ;)

He's the man who started it all for me.... He made it ok to talk about big booty. Whether you laughed or didnt laugh over the lyrics, this song and video made it no longer "taboo" to talk about the booty....

Watch The Video!

Enjoy!

Tatyana

Happy 2007, Friends!

2007-01-02T11:07:00.000-08:00

I think I was in work overload because I found it extra hard to get back into the swing of the film after a well-deserved holiday break.

I originally started this blog solely to write about my journey to make a documentary, thinking "wow, finally something in my life worth blogging that other people might be interested in reading!" But since my work IS my life and I don't even see a defining line between one and the other and they are constantly intertwined, I suppose it's alright to let people in on my life outside of BUTTS....

With a lot of my close friends far, far away this holiday season, I decided it would be great to get out of Toronto for NYE. You know, on the kind of trip that would be a nightmare to coordinate if there were a large group of people involved...

So my oldest friend, my sister and I decided to splurge on an overpriced hotel room and party ticket and head to Niagara Falls, ON.

We'd been to the new nightclub there - Dragonfly -- in the Fallsview Casino for Halloween and really love the vibe. Basically, a slightly-older-than-the-usual crowd in Toronto, with lots of people from all over the GTA looking to dress classy and have a good time. Also a nice mix of nationalities, which I always appreciate. I'm sure there are no strangers to NYE's price markups, but let's just say our room at the Hilton on Niagara Falls had jumped from somewhere around $150 to about $500... :) So we found a great spot on Clifton Hill (I'll divulge the spot if you email me directly because I want to be able to book there the next time I head out) for a smaller fortune and braved the rain (which wreaked havoc on our carefully styled hairdos) and the gridlock (no cabs in site and too yucky to walk) to get to the club.

(the rain couldn't keep away the famous Niagara fireworks show... we could see em from our window!!)

Fortunately, we made it there well before 12 and enjoyed an amazing nite out. I think Halloween and New Year's are a tie for my most favourite party nites of the year. EVERYONE has their guard down and is chatty and celebratory. The attitude disappears and I find myself chatting and meeting with people I probably wouldn't approach or be approached by any other day of the year.

With everyone going more and more casual it seems, seeing women in dresses and **especially** men in suits and ties is so glamorous and almost retro. Really wish we could bring back the '30s glamour (maybe this is why I love burlesque so much). I know this is probably overly-optimistic but I would LOVE the excuse to do a nice roller set and not be mistaken for a performer on her way to a gig!!

(some wonky camera setting that created this extra-trippy pic of the NYE party)

Passing out at around 5:30am, I felt blessed to have have a wonderful 2006. Things are starting to looking great for 2007 with a few new ideas and projects brewing....

Best wishes to All!

Tatyana

Merry Merry Christmas!

2006-12-25T12:54:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe, but Christmas is upon us again. I'm lucky to have loved ones around me, health, and a blossoming career....

It's amazing. I don't remember a Christmas in Toronto that has been this mild. Though as children, major snowfalls were the norm, in the past few years, odds of snow for Christmas seem to be 50/50.... but plus 7 degrees celsius!???? It's like we're in Vancouver or something. Believe me, I'm not complaining....

Best Wishes to all and I'll be back to my updates soon enough. I've got some major shoots coming up in the New Year that need some attention. But, for now, I'm going to relax and eat some good food.

xoxo
Tatyana

WONDERBOOTY!

2006-12-22T09:00:00.000-08:00

Still haven't finished my Chicago updates but the world is moving fast.... can't believe we're days away from Christmas!! Uncanny!!

So I've been doing my usual Google perusing (yes, I need a hobby) and just came across some articles announcing that in the UK, Wonderbra sells WONDERBRAS FOR THE BOOTY. :) Wonder how these "wonderbootys" are selling? Wonder why they're only available in the UK? Who would have thought in our thin-obsessed and eating disorder ravaged society, a major brand would make the move towards booty-plumping! Cheers to that!! And cheers to me for not needing one.... the Wonderbra, on the other hand, will always be my best friend.

A day of Chi-town Scenics

2006-12-15T20:40:00.000-08:00

Ahhh Chicago!!
Didn't bump into any Greeks, but hey, the city still rocks!

(check out that skyline!!... and also the fact that it's December and I'm not wearing a coat!!!)

You know what I love about winter? When it's just cold enough to skate outdoors, but warm enough that you're comfortable in a thick sweater or light coat. We drove around to grab scenic shots today so after getting a gorgeous skyline shot, we headed to Millenium Park.

(there's a fabulous booty-like mirrored sculpture in the park that I had to have fun with!)

(random shot of an apartment building, but isn't it weird how the parking lot is set up? looks like the cars could just fall off the sides....anyways.....)

That's it, that's all.

Teaser-photos

2006-12-14T23:55:00.000-08:00

We got some spectacular footage from the Burlesque show in Chicago I attended.

Someone split the beans and promoted that there would be a CANUCK film crew in the house tonite so a large group of Canadians living in Chicago decided to show up and show their pride... which translated into many many Canadian flags and much screaming! Never a dull moment in the world of burlesque.

It was a great show, really, really great! And I can't wait to start working with the footage.

Because I didn't want to jeopardize valuable video footage, I shot some pics sans flash...

(I love the colour and movement even with the blur....)

(hey, it's the Ghost of Christmas Present!!!! I can't believe how excited I was, front row and all!!)

What I learned on this evening:

- Though, in the moment, you might be laughing your butt off at their antics, enebriated patrons do NOT make the best subjects for streeter interviews.... :)

Booty Burlesque?

2006-12-13T23:11:00.000-08:00

I'm totally loving Chicago! The weather is awesome and it basically feels like a larger Toronto. I've been getting stir-crazy in Toronto and eager for adventure, perhaps to move onto a new place. But I'm not adventurous enough to move somewhere that is drastically different from my hometown -- which would be anywhere beyond North America at this point. Even L.A....

I want to feel like I COULD be in Toronto, but I'm not.... it FEELS similar to home but the streets are all new and there is so much to explore... Chicago seems to satisfy this need for change for me..... now if only I could get a green card....

We started off our day filming at an amazing yoga studio called Nature Yoga. As I watched the vinyasa yoga class, I realize how much I MISS yoga. The heated room, wonderful incense, stretching out every inch of my body and clearing my mind.... I'm long overdue to get back into it. Maybe over the holidays when things are quieter for a second....
Out of all the people I've filmed with so far, Michelle is the gal I've connected with most. Not quite sure why -- we're very different. Maybe it's as simple as we're both ambitious creative women around the same age? Regardless, I had an amazing time getting to know her and as I looked at all of the things she has on her plate, and the upcoming projects too, it made my head spin. I might not be the multitasker that I think I am. Here I am, working on ONE FILM and having trouble seeing past it and beyond.... but it's the perfectionist in me.

(funny picture of the 'boom in shot'. Even though I've been working with location sound for so many years, it appears as though I'm still daunted by the boom mic above my head. :) )

The other special treat on this trip has been the addition of a really lovely young lady, native to Chicago. She was hired as a PA but she's actually an amazing filmmaker and photographer. Lucky us! I have to say, as much as I love my crew, introducing a little estrogen into the mix is a welcome change!!!

(a silly pic of us mugging to the camera)

But the real excitement today was my first ever burlesque lesson. If you know me, you know I love to dance. But for me, dancing= moving without choreography or thought when I'm drinking at a bar. Preferably with Justin on the soundsystem.

Lessons are a first. Never had lessons. Ever. I was majorly daunted -- with choreography, dancing can become something really beautiful but also it makes something fun into WORK! Regardless, after sitting through an "advanced" burlesque class, I wanted to look sexy and move like that too! I was curious enough to shake off my shyness and join in! It helped that there were a few other first timers in the room. All in all, the choreography was quite basic. I could tell that Michelle was trying to get us comfortable with moving and looking sexy as opposed to bogging us down with complicated moves. I got the moves down more or less... but I found it REALLY HARD to check myself out in the mirror. Think back to how much you get the music in your body and move uninhibitedly on the dance floor. Seeing yourself can spoil, at least for me, that blissful reverie.

But I was here to learn -- so I had to sneak a peek every now and then of my reflection. And I looked.... ok!

But what I was unsuccessful at in this class, was LOOKING sexy, from the neck up. I am in utter awe at Michelle's ability to turn on the "minx" in her eyes and expression at any time. When I try to intentionally look sexy, I just feel like a droopy-eyed, little-kiddie-pout mess. I suppose sexiness is a state of mind and if you feel it, you'll exude it. Clearly, I haven't gotten there yet...

(the "anonymous" class)

So half of the class was warm-up, stretching and basic moves to get all loose and sexy... Then, we all had to grab canes to work on a mini-routine. Props are fun! They allow you to focus your attention on them and away from your body (which you might still be self conscious about). We danced to Esthero's "If Tha Mood" -- perfect song to put you in the mood! So after laughing and sweating through an entire class, I felt good by the end. Not sexy necessarily, but more confident. Burlesque is addictive!

(Working the pole, er--CANE)

With my lesson out of the way, I was now able to focus on directing and capturing the essence an life of this magnificent goddess who had welcomed my crew and I into her life....

More to come....

Chi-Chi-Chi-Chitown...

2006-12-12T23:41:00.000-08:00

First ever trip to Chicago. Apparently a lot of my "people" (read: Greeks) live here.... so I should be terribly excited, right? (My people also include the Polish as well, FYI).

In a freaky turn of events, the weather is almost BALMY for this time of year. Helped a bit with my luggage at the airport as I wasn't packing the thick knit sweaters. So I'm in Chicago for burlesque. To meet and work with the QUEEN of burlesque in my world... she's got a booty that does the duty (what on earth does that mean? I just made it up)

We had a few hours to ourselves after we landed so I marched right out onto Magnificent Mile and walked.... and walked and walked. Basically window shopped for 4 hours. I was in my usual traveller's daze and didn't take advantage of this precious free time to actually purchase some Christmas presents. But I did see some amazing holiday light displays and got a major workout!
I'm loving the hotel decor but hating the pushy employees. The valet guys literally jump into your car when you pull up and the bellmen almost grab your luggage even though you look (as I do) totally capable to handle the task yourself. But the interior is really cool and the hallways run around the perimiter of the building with glass dividers that look over into the atrium where they serve breakfast/happy hour drinks.

Pretty cool, eh?

So tonite I met up with my "subject" and her partner at a smoky bar and realized quickly that second-hand smoke would be my enemy for the first time in what feels like eons. That aside, all is good -- we're starting to film tomorrow!!

Random Atlanta Pics

2006-11-30T13:46:00.000-08:00

Some random pictures from the latest trip to Atlanta....

Something compelled me to order up a drumstick at the Popeye's drivethru and nosh on it while driving. The closest I got to "Southern Fried Chicken" on this trip. I know -- I'm a kook.

Our connecting flight was in Charlotte and I had to take this picture. The airport had ROCKING CHAIRS everywhere. What a nice way to spend a layover -- rocking your cares away.

I've been doing my darndest to pack lighter with each trip. But it's hard to be prepared for the unexpected without adding a little weight. Here is a pic of my suitcase, weighed at it's heaviest yet -- 65 pounds!!! For shame....

:)

Tatyana

Decked out in Denim

2006-11-29T23:45:00.000-08:00

I love clothes. So this part of my film is particularly fun. Especially because it's denim! What's more fun then denim???

Well, I should fess up. Denim hasn't always been fun for me. In fact, it's caused me probably the most culmulative stress over the course of my lifetime than any other shopping -- (considering how rarely I shop for swimwear). So hard to fit athletic thighs, hips and a tush.... believe you me. Even walking into Holt's (an upscale department store), I can rarely find the perfect fit even when I decide I can sacrifice a couple hundred dollars.

So when I found a denim company that caters to the bootylicious I was in heaven. And the expectation was high -- would I really be able to wear their jeans and love they fit???!?

They did they did they did!!!! Can't wait to share my findings with everyone on tape!!!

Because this has been a fit struggle plaguing mainly African-American women, the company was also thrilled to find a white gal that could fit their jeans. They also loved that I had an interesting look that could be any mix of nationalities... So they encouraged me to participate in the photo shoot that we'd be filming.

Such an exciting opportunity but hello, I'd never posed my bootie for anything before. I'd never even so much as had a professional photo taken since my childhood Sears Studio days.... We're talking ribbons in hair, sundress and maryjanes....

So what did I do?

I went to TARGET!

I should explain -- they gave all of the models an information sheet on which we were told what to bring to the shoot. Of course I didn't have MOST of the things on there because I had packed for a film shoot and not a glamour shoot....
So Target was my only hope.

Target calms me. Target makes me feel safe. It's really sick, but I think I can just wander through the store endlessly, lost in my thoughts and also distracting myself from over-thinking by checking out the wide array of goodies. I used to have this ridiculous obsession with heading to a Shoppers Drug Mart in Anytown-Canada when we were shooting a kids show a few years back. After wrap, I'd bug the front desk for the nearest 24hr Shoppers.... insane, I know. Maybe the stress of travelling lessens when I know that any amenity or toiletry is within my reach....

Anyhow, posing for those photos was the hardest thing I've ever done!!! Well, it's definifely high on the list. I guess I really should have practiced or something. Because once I was in front of 20 people and bright lights, alone, and trying to look "natural", I realized just how little I knew about my body and how to present it. Reminded me again why I feel safer beside the cameras... Don't really know how they all turned out, but I am definitely grateful for the experience! And I'm sure I will learn plenty about my bod by seeing the photos!

Thank you Claire, Dan and Nicole! You are amazing and I'm blessed to have crossed paths with you! I truly support what you're doing and the way you're doing it... Thank you also to the lovely models who were so sweet and supportive.

There's more to come....

FINISHED!

2006-11-26T01:00:00.000-08:00

Phew -- The Art Event went by in a blur.... and now I am officially finished with one of my characters!

After struggles with logistics, stress levels, etc., we got the job done!!

You'll have to watch the film to see how it all unfolds.

(the crowd starts to pile in)

(giggling with the gals)

(the spoken word Diva-Poets!)

(the set up I come back each night to in my room. first few times were like staring down the barrel of a loaded gun!)

More to come...

Tatyana

Back in the ATL

2006-11-24T12:39:00.000-08:00

Ahhh Atlanta....

I couldn't stay away too long, apparently. A little over a week after my first trip out, we were back.

We arrived trouble-free in the ATL today. And get this -- it's HOT. 20 degrees celsuis hot! Makes me wonder why I didn't manipulate my film around warm locales throughout the winter months and escape the Toronto cold. But I'm a serious artist focused on telling a great story. It's not about personal gain....more or less... :)

After a really early start, we drove into Decatur -- a lovely town just east of Atlanta. It was breathtaking!! A perfect, quaint little town full of tree-lined (and Christmas wreath-accessorized) streets, cute restaurants, gift shops...and sunshine. Today is "Black Friday". To me, I instantly pictured a day of witchcraft and bad luck, but in America this signifies the busiest and most profitable day of the retail shopping year. And the beginning of holiday shopping.... and apparently a day of incredible sales discounts. Did I partake? Of course not, I'm here to work!

Decatur was a nice change of scenery from our last trip. Stone Mountain itself was a lovely place, but the hotel we stayed at was in the middle of nowhere, killing the appeal.

And since we'd been gone, the leaves had changed. As we drove down Freedom Parkway and Ponce De Leon, the winding roads offered us amazing views of golden, crimson and chesnut coloured leaves! I honestly could see myself coming back on a romantic weekend to a spot just like this.

But enough fantasizing....back to work. Because the last trip out was a rainy, overcast mess, we had rescheduled a few segments to re-shoot this time around. Shooting a documentary out of sequence is really stressful and frustrating. At this point in the general public's TV viewing lives, most of us realize that there is little 'reality' programming and everything has a spin or needs to be planned. Nevertheless, it's hard to shoot segments out of sequence when you're on a personal journey. But I had no choice.

The "Artist" arrived 1.5 hours late and all of a sudden, we were now racing against the sun. The busy streets had also turned sparse as people returned home for dinner.... we needed to shoot a "scouting" scene and now we were really pushing it -- darkness descending and empty streets. Somehow, we pulled it off... zooming through town and talking to everyone in sight in record time!

I also needed to grab one crucial outstanding interview. During our "walk and talk" interview, we'd step into pools of shadow which were death to our camera's image.... and just as I mentally prioritized the questions I needed to ask, a train rolled through town (audio nightmare!!!).... Then, before we could finish, the sun set. Grr..... I was definitely going to have to go through this footage at home and see if anything was useable.

We headed on over to the nearby theatre where the Art event was taking place tomorrow and a new challenge presented itself. Stark white walls....and dim lighting. Perfect for creating a live theatre mood, not so perfect for our camera. Good news is, we had a day to figure out the lighting situation and make it work as best we could. So the Artist unveiled his photos, we captured the set-up process... and called it a night.

We grabbed a late bite and discussed the day.

Yes, the town was full of restaurants but no, none of the better quality establishments stayed open past 10.... it's a fact I still can't get used to about the US. I guess I've been spoiled by eating so late in Toronto. We ended up at a Mexican restaurant.... and I injested an entire block of cheese in my quesadilla.

It's also fun getting carded everywhere. Particularly when one of the gang is in his 40s... that's always a riot. They card everyone here.... taking no chances I suppose.

Everyone is majorly in the holiday spirit -- even though everyone's in t-shirts because of the weather. The hotel is really cute -- though I don't have a room that faces the real world, my window overlooks the hotel lobby which is decked out with beautiful Christmas decorations....

Not a great start to the second trip... but not too bad either.

Snapping Booty

2006-11-16T00:12:00.000-08:00

What a remarkable day!

Today, I experienced (through osmosis) a nude booty photo shoot. Makes me wonder just how I got into this whole line of work to begin with!

There was a point in high school when I entertained thoughts of getting into law, maybe teaching, or even journalism. All challenging professions that would have also made my parents proud.

Years later, here I am, documenting the life and times of BOOTY. Ok, so if you read my blog regularly, you realize that there are several inner battles I'm currently having with myself.... credibility is clearly one.

After rain foiled our outdoor filming plans yet again, our crew made our way to the photo studio with the Artist. I was super excited, because I had spoken to a newly recruited model on the phone this morning who was coming to pose tonite. AND she was a white gal with booty. To date, the Artist had been looking for a white gal, who boasts the type of proportions he features in his art, with minimal success. The reality was, more African-American women have these natural assets.... As the Artist made a few calls to see who would be showing up for the shoot tonite (there were several women booked), we got our first hint that New Gal would not be showing up.

No answer on her phone.

I called her as well, and no answer.

(I like this pic because it's blurry -- it kind of works to add mystery and you can draw your own conclusions on what's happening...)

At the photo studio, I sat and chatted with 3 models who had posed for the Artist before -- in a room that smelled faintly of baby oil. Then another 2 gals (one newbie and one "vet") arrived and chatted. When I finally asked if any of them were willing to recreate the experience of posing for me, there was considerable reluctance. But we finally got one taker, and then a couple more. I'll leave the rest a mystery for the film.... as well as a few other surprises that happened that night.... it definitely was an interesting experience!

(booty evidence!!)

We wrapped well after midnite... one more day to go this trip....

Can we call it the "Jigglers"?

2006-11-15T22:30:00.000-08:00

Another day in Atlanta was met with torrential rain. All I kept thinking was, there goes my plans to shoot outdoors in the precious few after-school-hours of daylight. (The guy we're filming is also a schoolteacher).

It just wasn't going to happen. Time to change up the shoot plan... AGAIN.

We can't even get a shot of the Artist leaving his day job from the safe refuge of our mini-van because the rain is blowing sideways!

We take a little detour to grab coffee and a bite to eat, and of course the Artist spots prospective models at both locations. Of COURSE the coffee shop would be a Starbucks... and we'd never get a chain like that to sign off on a release, so we missed that moment. Then, the same thing happened at Publix.... sigh... so we were 0 for 2...

Side note: The coolest thing ever happened at Starbucks. Rain gives me a headache and we popped in to order up some energy. When I chatted with the girl behind the counter, I found out that the store was closing in an hour FOREVER. Apparently the location wasn't making good money so it was the staff's last hour in business. I immediately asked the girl if she'd still have a job. She was ok -- there were several other locations around Atlanta and because she was a full time permanent employee (Hello BENEFITS! This girl has better job security and coverage than I do!!) she'd be ok. Then, she went on to give me all four of my specialty drink orders for FREE. How NICE is that on a rainy day when nothing is going your way? I swear, there are angels among us everywhere!!

As the rain continued and the darkness descended, further plans were tossed out. But we made do... gotta roll with the punches when dealing with real life.

The highlight of my day was a trip to an authentic Atlanta suburban "gentleman's lounge" called the "Blue Flame".
For those extra curious types, you can virtually visit at http://www.blueflamelounge.com/index.htm

I could be wrong, but I wouldn't be surprised if my crew and I were the first Caucasian people to ever set foot in this spot. We were there to capture the extent of Atlanta's bootyfulness... (not my idea but I was game nevertheless) and bootyful it was!

I dont think I was prepared for the scene. Let me preface by saying I had never been to a female strip club ever before this moment -- I had tried to entice friends to take me before, and I had ventured into a few male joints.... but I had never experienced the pole spinning, fake boob jiggling and legs spreading that I had HEARD happens in most strip clubs. This was a whole other world entirely -- it was a BOOTY HAVEN! There were no suspended acrobatics on poles, no huge plastic breasts.... it was all booty shaking, shimmying and bouncing! It was Booty Mania!

It wasn't the "Rippers" or the "Peelers"... neither name felt at all appropriate. It was more like the "Jigglers"! That name suited the scene I witnessed.

I still have to thank the lovely Dancer who allowed us to film her dance on camera and the owners of the place for letting us in with our huge professional camera in the first place. And I think I was in shock (or so my face seemed to dictate) the rest of the night by the whole experience. Talk about culture shock! Don't know how much of it will actually make the final film, but it was a monumental moment just the same.

So, as you can see, this first shoot trip continued to take a seedy turn.... and all I could do was hope that I could contrast it with some beautiful artistry in the days ahead....

Atlanta Belles-and-Bottoms

2006-11-14T23:30:00.000-08:00

I slept like a baby at the Hampton Inn. Melted right into the king size bed and drifted off to blissful sleep. Unlike my NYC experience, the halls and neighbouring rooms were dead-silent and I awoke feeling completely refreshed. What a relief!

(I'm obsessed with taking photos of my hotel rooms.... esp. when I'm staying in the US burbs because they are just soooo BIG for one person. This is the 'sitting room/office')

(continuing on my pictoral tour of my hotel room, here is the garbage can in the kitchenette)

(yes, I've already made a mess of my bed... how comfy does that look though! Props to Hampton Inn... I'm serious!)

I was already behind a day -- we were killing two birds with this Atlanta trip by filming with two characters. However, the "Jeans Designer" and I hadn't managed to connect in person yet to work out the details for our shoot in a few days. But I didn't have time to dwell on that... I had to finish up my shoot plan for today... and get myself looking somewhat presentable.

For those who know me, I am a bit anal (the puns are endless) when it comes to my appearance. I wouldn't quite call myself high-maintenance but I'll admit that I'm rather self critical. I do take care with how I dress and look. Add a camera (that I will appear before from time to time) to this equation and you have: a significant amount of extra time spent getting ready each day. But, those are the breaks.

I am in Atlanta to film an artist who partakes nude booty photography. His work really is something to behold -- and I am withholding details to build anticipation...

We met up with our first character (aka the "Artist") at his place.... and surprised him with a bit of filming as he was pulling up in his car, returning from an errand. We proceeded to film footage of his prior work and a background interview. The content was great, but I quickly became aware of an error in my planning. I had not allowed much time for "set-up". Over the past few years, I'd clearly become spoiled in dealing with tiny 'prosumer' cameras that maximize available light. I was further corrupted more recently by shooting as a one person crew for MTV Canada....on those shoots, I basically just WENT. As my crew fiddled to get the lighting and environment just right, I started to get anxious. Needless to say, this put us behind...

A bit of background filming at the Artist's place and we had to boogey to get to a coffee shop to meet some previous models from his exhibit.

In actuality, the local mall was the true place where gals from his community gather, but we weren't able to get clearance to film there. Apparently, the mall management did not sympathize with the Artist's work and did not see the benefit of allowing a camera crew (however small and inobtrusive we were) to film for reasons other than to feature a mall-specific event. So a coffee shop was the alternative... a lovely place called the Urban Grind. Tons of ambience... the owner let us turn down the music and set up stronger lights, as well as create a round-table like setting for me to interview and chat with a group of the female models.

(chattin' it up with the gals/models at the "Urban Grind" cafe)

(we could have talked for hours!)

It was a great chat -- Canadian Tatyana with a crew of Southern African American gals of all ages.... the subject: booty. What else? The girls shared their varied reasons for participating in the exhibit, as well as their experiences. By the end of the chat, several expressed the joy of being able to share their stories with a group of like-minded people and began ruminating over setting up a networking group! It was so refreshing to see -- the women were empowered and basking from the experience, as was I!

Though I had scouted and met with the Artist months back, you never really get to know someone until you spend a full, time-crunched day with them. This is when you see people's true colours. I experienced a bit of push-and-pull with the Artist, as he had his own ideas on how to film, and having made his own documentaries, had a very different approach to storytelling from my own. I understood and appreciated his intent to offer me "more than I needed" to film so I'd have options. But this posed complications to the schedule I had so precisely arranged. For example, he found a "New Model" and brought her to the coffee shop, mentioning that he'd be photographing her that night and we should come along. How could I turn that down? After all -- the girl was a first-timer AND was willing to disrobe with a camera in the room. So I decided to reschedule the additional planned segments with the Artist for another day.

(what's going on in here?!?)

When we got to the studio, I proceeded to try to interview the New Model. It was then that I found out the following things:

- she was only 19
- she was extremely unarticulate (vapid??)
- she was an escort!!!

As she offered useless, one-word answers to me and proceeded to get nekkid without the slightest bit of demureness, the scene took on a whiff of seediness. Where was my timid doubting gal with much verbally expressed hesitation? Where was my gentle, coaxing photographer, using his powers of persuasion to get her to see the beauty of nudity? I likened this experience to soft porn -- as the girl lounged between shots, showing off expressionless, full-frontal nudity. I immediately began to wonder just how long she had been in her line of work.

My mind already began to plan for the next shoot and ways to 'undo' this 'mess'. This was not the story I wanted to tell! But, it was the story that was unfolding, and a part of me challenged myself to tell it like it is. I've always had a tendancy to sugar-coat and edit a pretty picture. The New Model was in a sense illustrating what the critics might say about nude booty art... it made me uncomfortable but did that make it NOT WORTHY of telling? Therein was my first dilemma, and we were only into our first day of filming!

You never really can plan when you're filming real life.... I tell ya!

Waffle-size My Butt

2006-11-13T22:00:00.000-08:00

So we're off on our first main shoot for "What A Booty!"

Our little trio boarded an Atlanta-bound flight in T.O. on Monday afternoon. It was already delayed by a half-hour when we claimed our seats, only to find out that due to a "fuel inspection error", we'd be delayed some more.

I don't think anyone would have believed that a fuel inspection form filled out incorrectly would lead to a plane-full of people stuck for 3 hours on the Pearson tarmack -- but it happened! First we were told it would be resolved "soon"... then a "little later"... then the stewardesses began trying to get various passengers on alternate flights... and at one point, many of us were told to disembark to try to catch another flight.... before we were ushered back on board. Three hours, folks.... before we took off.

Some of us found some well-needed release in free booze... others (namely me) fumed silently at a lost day. (I really needed to get to Atlanta by early evening to tie up some loose ends and have some meetings).

By the time we landed, got our rental car and made our way to our hotel, it was 12:30. What's a tired, famished traveller to do in Suburban Atlanta on a Monday late nite? Why, dine at the WAFFLE HOUSE, as there are no other options.

Let's just say it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience. In other words, experience it once in your lifetime, if you indeed value your life. After scanning the gut-rotting menu (Denny's is 'diet-conscious' compared to this joint), I decided to order a "safe" omelette and toast. And I relaxed a bit. After all, we were in Atlanta... and the restaurant's ambience was fun ... old school diner-style complete with jukebox and "down home Southern" staff.

But all went downhill when the food arrived.

I had the crew in stitches as I tried to sop up the tablespoons of oil in which my egg mixture floated.... pure oil.... which pairs brilliantly (at least the cook seemed to think so) with the butter-drenched white toast. I couldn't find enough tissue to complete the mission.

A few bites, and I was done...The guys did slightly better....

Let's just say, with a fleet of Waffle Houses across Atlanta, I might just have caught an early glimpse into a potential cause of the city's "Booty Capital" status.

Lessons learned so far on this trip:

- if you're going to bring your laptop travelling (perfect for those 3 hour plane delays), make sure the battery is charged first
- when in Atlanta, dine before midnite if you value your arteries

Tomorrow we start filming.

Big Apples in the "Big Apple"

2006-11-06T20:28:00.000-08:00

So it's 7AM and I'm wondering how I'm going to manage through the day in NYC -- I wanted to be fully rested, knowing how on the ball you have to be around here....

My camera man (a local hire) calls me at 8 to tell me he's in horrendous traffic and wont be able to make the 9AM call time -- it would be more like 10AM. I'm suddenly so glad we decided to plan this as a full day shoot (9 hours) as opposed to the half-day I had initially envisioned (4 hours). Sarah's not due at my hotel until 10AM, so no worries.

I get my coat and decide to wander out for a coffee. It's the first time I've seen Times Square in a fairly reasonable state -- the last time I was here it was mid-summer and 24/7 chaos and congestion. Today, it's just people scuttling off to work... and, oh ya, a half-naked fireman (no NOT the naked cowboy!) being interviewed by some morning show in the middle of the Square.

For a moment, I'm willing to forgive New York everything...and I stop in my tracks to take in his tanned, muscular bod from afar. He's in his fireman's overalls, minus a shirt, and let's just say it was NIPPY out this morning. Where else in the world will you see such a sight at 9AM?

Grab my coffee, head back, fiddle with the gear for a bit...and soon enough both Sarah (my subject) and my shooter have arrived. Sarah is this beautiful, intelligent journalist working in NYC. She's been blessed with a majorly bountiful bottom, and has self-published an incredibly cheeky book about butts (scroll back through the archives to find out more about it). My kinda gal! I still find it so cool that we both have been operating on parallel paths and were able to come together for a common goal!

The plan today -- rig a hidden camera in her purse to capture the "rear view" of her life. New York is insane when it comes to forward catcalling... I've been on the receiving end far too many times, but I'm basically working with a quarter or so of what Sarah's blessed with. So I could only imagine what she goes through every day. I was about to find out.

We manage to reasonably rig the camera, and soon enough, with camcorder viewing screen in hand, Sarah wanders off. She's determined to get the real view, and fears our cameraman will scare off the true gawkers. So we play several games of cat-and-mouse with her, and at one point I start to get frustrated. After all, hidden camcorder footage is not nearly as important (or costly) as the professional camera we have with us that is unable to keep up with her.... But then I think, what would I do in her shoes? Probably the same thing -- get caught up in the experiment. All of these years she's had an idea of how people respond to her butt from the front, and catches the odd side glance...but now she had a full view of what was going on in the world behind her, unbeknownst to the people on the street. Of COURSE she was preoccupied!

We were stopped THREE TIMES in the course of 4-5 hours by various security guards, film personnel and cops. Each time, Sarah flashed her Police Press Pass (how much do you think THAT would go for on the Black Market??) and we were left alone. To be totally honest, the only reason I came to NYC to do this segment is because I knew Sarah would handle the cops. I've had my run-ins every time I've had a camera in hand... and just didn't want to deal with it again. First, a Hollywood movie set in the middle of a street with some random guy asking me who I was with and to get off "his set".... Next, a tiny little blonde who told me she was with Park management and asked for my permit to film there (meanwhile I was standing on the SIDEWALK, which I briskly informed her of). Can you believe she persisted? Then a security gard in another park....

We got the segment. At least I hope we did -- I have yet to view the rushes. Sarah was so professional and brave... taking it all in stride....
The men we did catch on film had some of the most exaggerated reactions I've ever seen -- and they didnt even know until after the fact that they were being filmed! (releases...) Couldn't have prepped them or choreographed it better myself! Good stuff... fun stuff!!

And once I was on my own again with a couple of hours before I had to head back to the airport, the attention returned to me. I caught far too many men leering and uttering the very popular and all-encompassing expression: "Daaaamn!" As though that says it all. Sarah also educated me that men will look immediately at your hips and thighs, to get a sense of whether your behind is worth checking out. Shouldn't have told me, because I became hyperaware of this bizarre fact for the rest of the day..... yes, she was right.

Toronto doesn't quite react to booty in the same way. And most men will bite their tongue and save their comments unless they're with friends egging them on. But not NYC -- everyone's fair game. All in all, not a totally bad experience. Our little crew of three made it work and got the job done!

But mark my words -- next time I head for the Big Apple, it will be strictly for pleasure! My sanity depends on it!

En Route to the First Shoot

2006-11-05T20:36:00.000-08:00

Not exactly sure how I ended up in Pittsburg but it was the necessary connecting flight to get me to NYC without costing a grand or some ludicrous amount like that. It's a Sunday so I don't mind the couple extra hours of travel time. Plus, I've never been to Pittsburg. Not that I got to see what was beyond the airport...

General observations: lots of skinny white dudes working at the various shops. As I wander a bit in between flights, I am surprised to discover a Victoria's Secret in the airport! Something about that really surprises me... Yes, it's a major American retailer. And yes, it sells what some could argue are necessary garments... I venture in, but feel as though buying underwear in an airport is slightly bizarre, almost inappropriate.

Especially for a place that has thick black plexiglass shielding the "T&A" on Maxim, Stuff and Blender. Doesn't that seem a tad bit strange? Risque red dental floss thong lingerie in plain view... glistening bikini-clad photo of girl hidden from view. Is Pittsburg that conservative of a place? It's definitely a strange sight... the models' eyes peering over the plexiglass shield... But I wander on.

Something about travel makes me super drowsy. I've been doing enough of it lately, and it's always the same dazed state that accompanies me as I wander through airports. I suspect it's the cabin air - it's the only thing that seems to make sense. If that were indeed the case, it would explain why oxygen bars were popping up in airports at one point.... I think I saw one recently in Vegas... are those things still around elsewhere? I don't know.

I venture into the candy store:

a) because I have an insatiable sweet tooth and
b) American candy amuses me

As expected, there were chocolate bars I had never seen before... something called "Cow Tales" and some weird Reese Peanut Butter cup thing that was filled with marshmallow.... curiouser and curiouser! I wonder if there are infinite possiblities for types of candy bars. So it would seem....considering the amount of artificial flavours out there. Or have we seen it all... every variation and combination of a finite group of key ingredients? It's hard to say.

Who eats Baby Ruth, anyway?

I pick up some weird candy bar and go to pay, handing over what I think is an american dollar coin, but is in fact a Loonie. I suspect something is wrong when the young cashier's brow wrinkles as she looks down at the coin. I apologize, saying I handed her the wrong coin and she passes it back to me saying: "You probably want to keep this. I've never seen anything like it before". I have to keep a straight face. I could excuse her ignorance, seeing as she works in an airport in a country that shares a pretty large border with Canada -- home of the bright, shiny Loonie.

But, am I being unfair to this young gal? American readers, would you recognize the Canadian loonie if it crossed your palm?

I can't decide if I prefer flying the big jumbo jets (more passengers, more hold up getting on and off) or the smaller planes (closer quarters, no entertainment). Regardless, my nose keeps getting me into trouble on my travels. On the connector to Pittsburg, I was sitting beside an average looking mid-40s gentleman. And he vaguely smelled of some chemical you might whif in a dentist's office. Of course, I'm convinced I have the sharpest nose on Earth as I detect the most subtle of scents, for better or worse. In this case, worse. 1 1/2 hours worth.

So, I get onto the plane to NYC -- a big jumbo jet this time. And it's the longest I've waited to actually get INTO the cabin. It turns out practically everyone on the flight is trying to cram slightly too big carry on luggage into the limited overhead bins and somewhat arrogantly arguing over it.

So we stand, and we wait.

And thus, my familar "warning" appears as I'm en route to NYC. The young man beside me on the plane is sitting on my seatbelt. He's annoyed when I interrupt his grade-school-girl gossip with two female friends sitting a row in front. I say thank you -- his reply: "Right."
"Right?" What would be "wrong", then?

I think I dislike this response even more than the American favourite: "Uh huh." I guess my over abundant use of "thank you" puts a big glaring Canadian sign on my forehead. I'll keep it thank you very much. Politeness goes a looooong way in my world.

The "he's with her....ohhh can't believe she did that"-type gossip finally stops and dude sits back to begin munching on his hangnails.

Yes, I love travel.

I'm travelling to NYC for my first official shoot for "What A Booty!" And I'm without a securiy blanket -- it's my first trip to the Big Apple entirely solo. I'm worried about the filming. We're trying to pull off a little experiment -- my NYC gal character and me -- and how we're going to accomplish it logistically and deal wih releases as well as rude folks is making me antsy.

I have yet to have a trouble-free shoot in NYC. I'm convinced it's actually impossible. I know New Yorkers can smell fear, but do I really have time to retrain my brain?

I check into my hotel room in Times Square. This one officially is the smallest one to date I've ever stayed in. It's nicely done up and has a plasma tv. BUT, the ENTIRE ROOM is the Queen bed, with less than a foot of walking space around it. No closet, no bathtub... bare bones. I really don't mind.

I meet up with a friend of mine. We grab dinner and she helps me pick up some camera-friendly makeup at Sephora. She's a doll. We have coffee, hang out. I call it a night.

Until I'm woken up in a jarring fashion at 3AM. An alarm is going off in the hallway and it takes me a few seconds to remember where I am and assess the situation. Remember, I'm super paranoid and anxious by nature. So I'm thinking, if someone pulled the alarm as a diversion, the same person might very well see me come out of my room alone in my pyjamas and target me later on... So I lie very still, and listen. I hear someone in the hallway asking if it's getting shut off.... 15 minutes go by, and finally it stops.

And I proceed to toss and turn for several hours before drifting off into a light sleep. My alarm goes off what feels to be SECONDS later at 7AM... and I'm off to an un-restful start to my day. I won't even get into what the useless front desk gal says to me when I voice my dismay at the inconvenience.

New York -- you and I are going to take a bit of a break from each other. I know I said I'd give you another try, but you won't even meet me half-way. There are other cities that will treat me far better, I assure you.
It's your loss.

But there's no time for dramatics... it's time to officially SHOOT!!

Wish me luck!

Everybody Wants My Fanny!

2006-11-01T07:20:00.000-08:00

Thank you Brian for the tip on this fun song. Wasn't familiar with this guy before this:

Have a listen:

Booty Tune of the Day!

What's YOUR favourite booty tune?

I'm Migrating South....

2006-10-30T08:15:00.000-08:00

Fall days are here in full force. Yes I am one of those people who loves that familiar crispness in the air! I'm a fall baby -- it's in my blood....

We got an extra-harsh blast of fall-cum-winter this past weekend... which marks a significant moment in the life of my film:

The bootys are slowly retreating into hibernation.

A strange time to be shooting a film when we're headed into the months where we wrap and bundle ourselves in fleece and down... but that's just how long it's taken things to get going.

Fortunately there are Southern States to visit for a little relief and ongoing inspiration!

I guess a winter of shooting will be good for my OWN booty, as it will have to keep moving and moving will keep it healthy. So long as I am careful with the Southern home cookin'!

Which brings me to another realization. Eating healthy while in production is always such a huge challenge! I can't remember the last time I've had FRUIT or substantial healthy VEGGIES even, on a shoot. The fast-paced, frenetic schedule somehow doesn't make it realistic or even appealing.... so I'm going to make a conscious effort to try to eat healthier now... in the week(s) leading up.

So when the going gets bootyless, the booty documentarian goes South.... (well, I'll be going West as well... but that's not as dramatic!)

Tatyana

Shake That?

2006-10-26T12:22:00.000-07:00

I'm obviously familiar with Eminem's song "Shake That"... funny, I should go back and count how many songs directly targeted at the rear that he's done in the past little while.... but anyhow, I'd never seen the VIDEO.

Follow the link, if you dare. I admit, it's quite misogynistic. But, I think the animation is really fun....CUTE actually... I bet it's a conscious move to get away with raunchier material than would get by if it were live-action:

Click here for the video

Thoughts?

TT

Let the ASScapades Begin!

2006-10-26T11:24:00.000-07:00

I'm pleased to announce that I've just booked our first shoot:

Date: November 14th
Destination: Atlanta!
(which there has been more and more consensus lately on is the 'booty-capital' of the US)

(another fun company that I just discovered in the good ol' capital) -- I LOVE how the pear-shape (which in itself is a rather lame term, has evolved into something sleek and sexy like a cola bottle!)

We might actually start shooting a week before then for a smaller segment, but this one's the big first shoot with a main character!

I've got my dream shooter, who I haven't worked with in many years but whom I trust wholeheartedly will deliver what I need. And from here on in, there's no turning back!

Can't wait to DO this!

Nuff Said!

2006-10-24T13:42:00.000-07:00

Fridge Magnet available at:

www.stickerGiant.com

My New Pledge

2006-10-24T10:56:00.000-07:00

I hereby promise not to make another post unless its a fun, exciting, and most of all optimistic one!

Stay tuned...

Tatyana

Win One, potentially Lose One.

2006-10-20T21:24:00.000-07:00

I've sort of managed to avert major disappointment. Talked to another partner in the "company" (sorry for being so cryptic.... I want to leave some surprises for the film). We appear to have come up with a good alternative main character. I just have to interview her this weekend and trust my GUT (which I've recently been reacquainted with) on if she'll work for the film. She has a booty, has been a model for the company for a long time, and as a close first cousin to one of the partners, has stood beside the brand through events, development, fittings for new styles.... her butt has been there every step of the way....

Now, I've got to deal with my second MIA character in a week. My Spidey-senses are tingling again... there's something afoot here. I already know she's had another offer to do a film and apparently there's something in the way of an "exclusivity clause" that's being pushed on her. I was told this shouldn't be a problem earlier on in the game, but I'm guessing it's just become one. We've all got our contracts and releases we need signed to ... cover our butts...

***Side Note: where on earth did THAT expression originate from????****

...but I have a feeling between my release and this mysterious contract with another producer, the gal could be fearful of signing her life away. And rightfully so. Now if only she would call me back and give me the details, dirty or not.

At least it's the weekend and I can wait in eager anticipation while in the comfort of home. Maybe it's time to have a glass of wine and toast the progress thus far..... I have a soft spot for a good glass of Chianti....

Tatyana, the Grumpy?

2006-10-20T11:12:00.000-07:00

Wow, readers of this blog must think I'm such a grumpy person with the amount of anxiety-filled posts I've had lately.

If anything, the goal of my negative emails is to deter any future filmmakers from making documentaries, through experiencing my stories of just how darn hard it is to make one! (kidding) It's reality -- the struggles and roadblocks make the rewards that much sweeter, etc. etc. (chin up, kids!)

Which leads me to my latest "drama". You'll remember that I just locked my main characters last week.

Yesterday, I got on the phone to confirm some scheduling with one of the characters. And... I was told by the receptionist that said-woman was no longer an employee of the company! As in, the company that celebrates the booty is still open for business, but my charming, young, bootyful spokesmodel is history.

Not the greatest piece of news to get, and completely unexpected.

Well, maybe not completely unexpected....I was having some doubts. Let's just say that the little voice inside of me, that squirmy part of the belly that seems to squirm only when it has an important message to get all the way up to my brain.... well, I might have been guilty of quieting it in the past few weeks.

Unreturned phonecalls, communicating solely with ONE of several partners in the company..... there were red flags for sure. But, trying to change my worrywart/pessimist ways (which may turn out to be a life-long mission), I soldiered on.

And then the reality hit.

So here I'm scrambling. Knowing that there is a fair bit of manipulation that happens behind-the-scenes in documentaries, I can construct a new reality with this company, seeing as what they do is just so wickedly cool. But I also like to set certain boundaries which would otherwise push things into the "reality-tv" realm of reality in my opinion. The organic link and storyline have been uprooted. And now I've got a nice puzzle to sort out this weekend.... plant some new seeds in this dreary time in November.

It will work out.... (**grinning through gritted teeth**)... I know it will.....

I'm suffering from B.B.A. -- Browsing Booty Addiction

2006-10-19T07:34:00.000-07:00

I...can't.....stop....browsing.....

It's addictive. And endless. Especially for booty. You click on one booty girl and she's got all her bootylicious friends in her list....not to mention various mags she's modelled for and smaller companies she's helped promote for....

These mags list all of the girls who have or wish to work with them...meaning MORE bootys.... these bootys find community with other bootys....it's an endless cycle.

A friend told me the other day that my MySpace friends list is the most bizarre mishmash of people ever (or something to that effect). I don't really agree. If you know that I am in fact filming a documentary about booty, all of the people listed generally make sense and fall into one of the following categories:

- personal friends

- bootylicious gals

- kick-ass women entrepreneurs or activists

- men who support (and wait in eager anticipation) for my film....

- the obligatory musicians who's promotional perseverance I have to respect...

That about covers it.

Now if only I could stop browsing. I wonder if there's a program or support group somewhere out there for people with my problem.... can't stop....

Guess I'll browse around and see if there are any.... Ack, I give up!

Shame on Oprah!

2006-10-16T10:38:00.000-07:00

Click here to see what I'm talkin 'bout!
(thanks for the lead, Tina!)

For shame Oprah, for shame. I mean, really. An episode called "Does My Butt Look Big?"

Of all the segments and initiatives you've had teaching women to love and celebrate and maximize their bodies, you title a segment encouraging women to question what they've got from the rear-view?

"My Butt Looks Big!" declares celebration and acceptance.
"Does My Butt Look Big?" proclaims uncertainty, identifies "big" as negative and overall mocks the progress of women's body acceptance in our twisted society.

Here I am making a film about Maximizing a gal's Assets, and one of the most powerful women in American media is asking us to Question them!!

To be fair, I haven't watched the episode, only a few short clips online. But why, oh, why do we insist on being a society that HIDES rather than FLAUNTS. And even if the message is to all the women who don't dress appropriate for their shape, at least cloak it in a more celebratory title with kind hints like how to wear pants in your actual size!

Had I been a faithful Oprah-watcher, this would have hit me a lot harder. I imagine that I would feel really betrayed. But fortunately, I have never really understood the obsession with Oprah's show and can count on one hand the number of episodes I've watched in their entirety. I do not get the appeal as she offers me nothing that I cannot get elsewhere and I do not find her all that watchable.

I hope she follows up this episode with a celebration of butts.... to show that she's a woman to explore all sides....

On second thought, no, I hope she doesn't. I want my film to be that counterattack.

And it most certainly will be.

False Alarm!

2006-10-13T00:53:00.000-07:00

One of my beloved characters has resurfaced and so....we're full steam ahead!!

It's a momentous day -- my 3 main characters are locked, the plan is coming together...
and, oh yes, I am also one year older.

Which means, of course, that it's time to reflect....

There are days when I feel I've acheived so much success in terms of chasing my career dreams. There are others where I feel like a fraud for believing I can make an honest living by chasing people with interesting lives around with a camera! To this day I often don't get the credit I'm due because of how young I look -- at least a good 3-4 years younger than my actual age. I can see how this wouldn't be a huge "difference" when you're 40 or 50, but when people assume you're still in post-secondary or freshly graduated, it's a different story. I feel like I've been (somewhat defensively) telling people I graduated "3 years" ago for years now! Hey, reality-check, Tatyana! You claimed your diploma in 2001... you, my dear, are getting older.

A baby face can be a blessing -- people aren't threatened, they more easily open up to you, and they are shocked and impressed when you speak with a certain level of intelligence (instead of the teen-speak they were expecting).

But a baby face can also mean -- people are reluctant to trust your experience and are more often inclined to immediately try to "help" you and guide you. Leaving you with more to prove, which is just plain more work!

I still get a kick out of meeting people for the first time that I've communicated with entirely via phone and email. The fleeting, slight "Oh!" expression in their eyes when they meet me is classic. I translate it as: "Oh, she's just a kid!" Hey, maybe I've been off all of these years and what I really should be reading in those raised eyebrows is "Oh, she's got a really large head!" You never really know!

Regardless, I am well aware of how blessed I am. And I am grateful for the amazing people who continue to believe in me. You know who you are!

The day that people stop opening their hearts and lives to me and allowing me to share in their amazing journeys is the day that I seek out a new passion. So far, there are enough amazing people out there to keep me going for a long time!

Thank you!

Tatyana

The "Drama" of Documentary - pt.1

2006-10-09T12:31:00.000-07:00

A few steps back, a giant leap forward. Such is the ongoing drama of my life.

It seems as though every time I make that huge commitment and decide on characters for a project ,there is this disconnect that happens. Wish I could see into the minds of these folks because I'm assuming they go through a sort of "honeymoon-esque" bliss -- first the build-up of excitment: "what a cool project!" & "this would be such a wicked experience!" & "I don't want to get my hopes up but I'd really like to participate. Wonder what the likelihood is?", their imaginations run wild at the possibilities... they rationalize that they shouldn't get too interested at risk of disappointment....

And then I make the call. I let them know they are exactly what I'm looking for.... They are excited, motivated, grateful... And, what takes place next, without fail, is the communication lapses.

Perhaps they feel a sense of relief or of conquering...and now it's time to shift gears and tackle other challenges or resume other battles they currently face. Maybe they feel that they don't need to be in constant touch or aggressively selling themselves to me anymore because the battle's won?

Whatever it is, it's quite nerve-racking. Like I've said before, I'm a worrywart.... with the physical distance between me and my stories, I feel like silence is deadly and my only way to keep the connection I was able to make when we sat face to face.

So I wait.... and try to preoccupy myself with new challenges/goals.

Such as... speaking with SIR MIX-A-LOT's rep and getting him interested in this little film. Yes, he's INTERESTED! And the way I'm hoping to incorporate him should be a lot of fun. Nope, not going to share just yet in case it doesn't come together. But it's a very exciting development and how could I NOT incorporate the man who created the song that most openly and non-metaphorically proclaimed that a fat ass is indeed a phat ass? It's a part of my childhood -- one of the key anthems we as kids felt inclined to learn and sing along with word-for-word. A fun, silly, party song that didnt provoke huge controversy.

Mix's rep asked me if I had gotten down to the tune in the clubs and I said I certainly got down to it in my parent's basement... :) He got a kick out of that!

Like I said -- 5 steps backwards, a huge spring forward.... keeps you on your toes if nothing else..

Mama, I'm all grown up!

2006-10-05T14:06:00.000-07:00

Remember Jenna Von Oy or "Six" from Blossom?

Or do you:

http://www.blazinbeauties.com/images4/jenna_von_oy/JennaV.jpg

Pretty spectacular, hey??

Stumped!

2006-10-05T08:45:00.000-07:00

Totally, utterly stumped is how I feel at the moment.

I just got back a day-trip to NYC to meet a rising young Greek-American pop star. This young lady wins the title of most unique and complex girl I have met thus far on this journey!! (the trophy prototype is still in the design phase)

I was turned onto her by a Greek editor friend of mine as a girl with an “hourglass figure”. So I did some Googling and came across photos and info – body-wise, to me she looked like an absolute stunner, with an ample chest and teeny waist. And no booty shots to judge. But, I’m also learning that I shouldn’t judge quite so much myself. Especially because so many women learn to hide their flaws or at least downplay them.

So I emailed her, to test the waters.

She got back to me with quite a bit of enthusiasm about my project. She said that she’s struggled with her weight and body type her whole life and had earned the nickname of "A-Lo" by guy friends. As a teen, all she had was booty… and fortunately she had grown into the rest of her body and was now more proportioned. (I want to know what water she's been drinking because bottling that booby-potion would be a world-wide hit!) BUT, she went on to say that if I was looking for a girl who could speak candidly about the pressures of being a Mediterranean woman in the music business, I’d come to the right place. She briefly mentioned various disorders she had battled and that she wasn’t willing to drastically change her body and be a cookie-cutter anything to succeed.

Ok, so my curiosity was piqued. But again, all of this is over email.

We were able to pull together some money to send me on a last minute trip to NY to meet her in person. She picked me up from the airport and proceeded what was to become a 6 hour chat session!

First impressions – beautiful, unique face, bubbling and sweet voice, great charm… .but as we got out of the car to get a coffee, I noticed she was wearing a long filmy blouse over black leggings. She gave me a quick, impromptu flash of her booty by lifting up her blouse… and I didn’t know what to say.

The girl has a butt, definitely. But not a booty.
Now what?

And then I started to question my judgment. How and when did I become able to judge booty? What is my measure for what a “booty” should be? If a girl has an "hourglass" instead of a "pear" -- does she immediately not belong in a bootyful journey? Having my own insecurities (that quite frankly, others might see as being a bit warped), should, if anything, make me sympathetic to the insecurities of others - right?

But I experienced something more valuable than meeting another bootyful girl on this trip. I don’t need to rehash all of 6 hours of conversation… but what blew me away was the amount of pressure this gal's been getting from the one place I would never have expected – Greece.

In my mind, I felt that going to Greece again would be extremely liberating. I haven't been in over four years. As a child, I always felt so free there, surrounded by cooing relatives who could find nothing wrong with a happy, healthy child. My childhood memories were such that curves were coveted – the body was nothing to be ashamed of….

Clearly those times have changed and, as I’m starting to discover, there are some deep-rooted problems there. Women are starving themselves, trying to “Americanize” themselves…. Losing sight of the very thing that makes them exotic and unique to the rest of the world, including America!

And our young pop star is right in the middle of this insanity. In NY, she walks down the street and is treated like a goddess. In her parents homeland, she is criticized. So she faces a choice – submit to the demands of her label and possibly lose herself in the process, or fight back, and potentially lose her potential to skyrocket to stardom. Wow.

Typical Greek-style, I was welcomed into her family, fed, taken-care of…. And I think by the end of the day I believe I was beginning to see an ass on the gal because I WANTED there to be an ass. In other words, my judgment was clouded (or made crystal-clear?) based on her honest stories and great charm. Then, as she frantically tried to dig through childhood photos to show me the booty, we couldn’t find it. (But then I'm certain I wouldnt find any booty-emphasizing shots in my family's albums either as I doubt my parents thought to celebrate my rear-end once I moved from bare butt in diapers to pants.)

As we looked through her albums, what we could find, was a girl who wasn’t comfortable with her body and was always trying to contort it to look “better”.

The things we as women let the media and society do to us is incredible. And yet we are fighting an omnipotent machine… I was deeply touched by this young lady and now have to sit back and decide if her compelling story suits the very particular tale I’ve set out to tell. And I thank her for opening up to me and sharing so many intimate details of her struggle. She has inspired me, and I will take that with me.

Thank you, A! xoxo.

Hunt for a Camera Op

2006-10-02T12:03:00.000-07:00

I'm currently considering options for a fabulous DOP. So many things to factor in -- personality, style, scheduling, and... meshing with my unique personality.

(he doesn't need to look like the guy in the pic either...just thought I'd try being more visual with my blogs.... I don't even know who this guy is... but I'm sure he's very talented... love the jacket!)

How do you find the perfect balance between calm/cool/collected/experienced and lighthearted/fun? Someone who will compliment you, share advice and concerns, and help you bring to life your very specific vision? You look reaaaaaally hard, that's how.

With this film in particular, the key is that my cohort must also be someone I can be candid around. A very select few have ever seen my silly side -- it's kept well protected from the world at large and brought out only when the coast is completely clear and unthreatening.... But I have to tell you, it's pretty wacky...

I have yet to reach that level of candidness with a crew. I've come close.... but not quite all the way, yet. It's something worth continuing to strive for, even if it takes a lifetime to acheive, that's for sure!

When I started this blog, I somehow envisioned getting a dialogue going through comment posts, etc. When that didn't happen, I first took offence. Then, I realized that part of the appeal of blogs is being able to anonymously follow along and live through another's stories.
In other words, I forgive you all! (jokes)

But, if anyone feels like stepping out of anonymity to offer some fab suggestions for a shooter... I'd be glad to hear from you! I suppose if you have my email, you could just send me a note that way too... I just wanted to make my request that much more dramatic.

In the meantime, hope you're enjoying my ramblings....

Hard Times in Documentary-land

2006-09-29T23:48:00.000-07:00

Documentiares are hard.

Boo hoo, poor me, I know. I'm not looking for sympathy, just expressing a fact. Hear me out:

What makes documentaries particulary hard... well there are many reasons. But the one I'm currently faced with is when one of your most fascinating of characters becomes unreachable or uncooperative. You've met them, fallen in love with their stories, begun to imagine the film in your head... it's all coming together and becoming something REAL. A concept really is just a broad stroke until you meet the actual characters that will colour in the intriguing details and intricacies to make a glorious and rich portrait of a story.

And suddenly, your character is M.I.A.

While the same thing happens with actors on dramas and crew across-the-board, it is much more of a blow when you are creating a story that isn't just a figment of your imagination and is all about capturing a person and journey that organically exist. It's not quite so easy to "cast" a new face with a documentary.

I really am mastering the technique of letting "characters" know that they will really need to treat me as a personal friend fairly quickly (without the years of history to fall back on). Once I'm shooting, I find it easy to acheive this...but it's in the early stages when you're conversing via phone, trying to get into someone's head and anticipate the storyline/shoot schedule that it's always a challenge... getting people to open up and let you in.

The other point that I find is crucial to emphasize to a "character" is that no matter how much anticipated "fun" they think the whole process will be, in actuality it is also very long, tiring, and far more involved then they are expecting... and that they will realize all of this fairly quickly once we start filming.

While there are filmmakers who take a truly organic approach and camp out with their subjects, tagging along with them on-and-off for years (lending an incredible level of intimacy to the story), I have not found myself in this situation yet. So, all one can really do is try to ramp up the "getting to know each other" process and hope that the film doesn't suffer as a result.

Currently, I'm holding my breath over a character -- I can appreciate what it's like to try to run a new business and deal with the day-to-day, seeing the potential for a documentary to capture your ups-and-downs but not fully sure how to prioritize it with the million of other tasks demanding your attention. I'm smitten -- like a gal who's made it through the first date, I'm already sufficiently enamoured that it's not quite so easy to walk away anymore. So I wait... and reluctantly start to reconsider my options to give someone a shot that didn't grab my heart from the get-go....

In more exciting news, I've stumbled upon a potential goldmine of a story!

A young Greek-American pop star with a Mediterranean shape, who's trying to make it in the biz, without losing herself (and her healthy, fit physique) in the process. Talk about a last minute find -- my development deadline is a few mere days away! I'm flying out to NYC for a day next week...

Which brings me to a new source of stress. Just how do you manage a day trip when half of the contents of your purse are no longer allowed to be accompanied with you on board the plane?

Guess it will be my little baggie of cosmetics going around the luggage carousel with all of the hulking Samsonite 25-pounder suitcases.

What can you do?

Cheeky Girls

2006-09-28T10:39:00.000-07:00

If you follow the UK dance music scene at all, you might remember this ridiculous song. It's amazing how quirky those Brits can be in terms of their European tunes....

I think this song lasted all of 10 seconds, but....presenting.... The CHEEKY GIRLS!

Click Here To Enjoy A Quality Video by the Cheeky Girls!

Bones and Butts

2006-09-22T08:30:00.000-07:00

Even though "Skinny Culture" has been around forever, I still get really really uncomfortable when I come across articles like this:

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,2104-2280785,00.html

Perhaps I wasn't in California long enough to really notice the insanity it describes -- but part of me thinks as a coping mechanism, I actually tuned it out. I've just recently come to this conclusion -- that I've been unconsciously tuning out observations that might torment my own body image. This poses an interesting new challenge for me:

I've always been an observer, fascinated by the minute details of life. I love picking up on the subtle nuances of a culture and a community... the particular way that someone speaks, carries herself, noticing the similarities and differences between people and places. So my adopted defense tactics against the media's unrealistic body ideals might blur my vision and keep me from truly observing first hand the insanity that prevails amongst women.

Looks like I'm going to have to gingerly step into this arena with my film -- despite the risks. Backtrack in my "progress", in order to move even farther forward then ever before. There are those who believe you have to hit rock bottom to really appreciate great success and fortune....

-- but back to the article. This is scary scary scary folks. Yes, America is getting fat. Yes, we need to start taking responsibility for our health and well-being. But I have to wonder: what sort of world will I one day be bringing children into? Where our headlines may be blasting Nicole Richie's skeleton-ness, but we're hard pressed to find anyone else BUT her on our mag covers. When a woman who's ribs are more prevalent than her hips appears everywhere in the media because she happens to be wearing great designer clothes and shows up at all the hot parties... What other ideal are our media-fed children to embrace? We offer no alternative role models to compete in any way with the Parises and Nicoles...

A better article:

http://www.gapersblock.com/airbags/archives/la_face_with_an_oakland_booty/

I am in a tiny position of power -- to bring new role models forth. Sexy, confident, ambitious women who will hopefully challenge the ridiculous standards. It's the little I can do and it's become an all-out mission for me. Because, as I said, I found it challenging enough finding my way through adolescence with the Beverly Hills 90210 gang as my gals to emulate (watch an early episode and witness at how healthy the gals looked before they dieted their bodies away over the seasons).... it pains me to think of the battles today's teens (and even our future children) face. They need our help.

Who's with me?

Oh the Irony....

2006-09-21T08:24:00.000-07:00

I've got some Google Ads up on my site that vary from day to day (random generator based on the content of my site). And today I'm glad to say that I'm advertising for...

My beloved Beyonce and her clothing line!

Of all the ads in all of cyberspace... why don't we just kick her while she's down folks! But really, it's actually pretty funny....

Just working away on my development proposal, hopefully will come up for air soon.

(My only rendevouz to date with Madame formerly-Bootylicious -- a "waxy" Beyonce and I in NYC)

Humps in the Road

2006-09-18T08:10:00.000-07:00

Feeling creatively stuck today.
How is this possible with such a fun topic?

For starters, I am a person of extremes -- extreme highs that make way for extreme lows... I like to refer to it as being "intense".

This 'booty' doc has been in my thoughts, whirling around and trying to shape itself for almost 1 1/2 years now. That is a LOT of time to devote a good chunk of your brain to a story...time spent considering the angles, weighing the different options and imagining the storyline while commuting, drifting off to sleep, browsing the internet, even while out with friends.... A lot of energy and focus for a project still in "development".

Lately, I've been soothing my mind by imagining myself years down the line, relishing in the dream that one day I might be better positioned to just pick up a camera and SHOOT something I find fascinating. No disruptions or roadblocks to the natural flow of the creative stream of consciousness... I could do this now... but feel I should be patient, and learn and grow a bit first.

My current fear is if this project ends up taking 2 years of my life, how do I become more than the woman who did the documentary on asses? It will certainly be hard to surpass this one ... and yet, on a positive note, it will clearly establish to a wider audience my style, approach, and goals.

The first day of shooting on this one will be like the opening of floodgates, I'm certain.... and I can't wait!

The Butt Assessment Test!

2006-09-15T15:11:00.000-07:00

The Butt Assessment Test

More Local Burlesque/Dance....

2006-09-14T09:12:00.000-07:00

Went to the Bettie Page DCD release party yesterday at the Mod Club with my friend Anna.

The show started significantly late and it was standing room only (grumble).... and it took a bit for the show to build... But there were some phenomenal performances mixed into the evening. By far my favourite performances of the night were by "Lena Love" (whom I've spoken about in previous posts) and "Las Gatas". Lena moves like no one I've ever seen before -- it's absolutely mesmerizing -- she has a style all her own. She did a bizarrely fascinating performance to Nelly Furtado's "I'm Like a Bird" with a luminous, minimal, yet over-the-top featured costume (can you tell by my choice of words that you have to see it to understand?) Then Las Gatas took the stage -- I had heard about this "exotic dance" troupe from several people in Toronto and nothing they described prepared me for this performace. Wowzah! It was so hot, and an incredible blend (to my eye) of Vegas showgirl dance, yoga and jazz. I've never seen the Pussycat Dolls live, but perhaps these girls could be compared to them, although they seem way more innovative somehow. Of course the song of choice "Closer" by NIN, does a lot to the body temperature and imagination on its own, but add three sultry, gorgeous, flexible and choreographed ladies and you have one hot hot hot performance.

I almost didn't want to write about them because I feel like I'm spilling a really great secret -- this troupe is going to be huge....

Sadly, not really suited to my project -- they are all 'real' women with beautiful natural curves, but none with the 'JLo' asset that I seek...

Tatyana

A Huge THANK YOU!

2006-09-13T15:08:00.000-07:00

As I begin to sort my thoughts and screen some of my footage, I wanted to take a moment to say thank you to all of the wonderful women (and men) I met on my travels!

Each of you has inspired, motivated, and touched me with your amazing vision, wisdom, and accomplishments...

Keep kicking butt and changing the world for the better!

I feel so blessed to have met you all!
Tatyana

Buffie the Body -- the latest

2006-09-12T13:40:00.001-07:00

http://hiphopruckus.blogspot.com/2006/09/buffie-body-lands-endorsement-deal.html

Hot Blog I Just Discovered....

2006-09-12T11:38:00.001-07:00

http://toofatforfashion.blogspot.com/

State of Booty

2006-09-12T07:36:00.000-07:00

If I can make a wide, sweeping generalization about the 'State of Booty' across America, I have to say, the prominence is definitely in the U.S.

Growing up in Toronto, I can't say I was ever exposed to the level of booty that the Americans possess. In fact, as a teen, amongst my peers, I was considered to be very 'bootylicious'. Unfortunately back then, there wasn't quite so sexy and positive a term available to refer to the ample rump....

People have been asking me why I've travelled so extensively in the US for my research. Here's my response: Canada has a wonderful, articulate, intelligent and cultured population, but on the whole I've always found Americans to be BIGGER (I'm speaking figuratively in this case), BRASHER and more ECCENTRIC! Sort of exaggerated, more animated versions of Canadians. Which all makes for.... fascinating TV!!

Home at Last!

2006-09-07T16:36:00.000-07:00

(TIP: Sipping iced coffee makes a New York cabride bearable)

Back, had a day or so to rest and my blogs are completely up-to-date! I made it!

For the next little while, the posts will be fewer and further in between... but I'll do my best to post interesting facts and updates as they come up.

Thanks for tagging along on this portion of the Booty Quest!

Tatyana

Big (Bad) Apple Karma

2006-09-05T21:19:00.000-07:00

There is so much that I love about New York. Really there is. But I’m beginning to think that the next time I visit, it must be for pleasure only or I risk being permanently disillusioned by the Big Apple.

As I write this, I’m sitting in the La Guardia airport, flight delayed yet again (on my way home!) It’s always soothing to know that your aircraft is having problems with the right engine and maintenance is on the way, meaning that your flight may or may not be cancelled. Or that it might take off after all – with a “repaired” system – at this moment, not really sure what’s worse.

Apologies again – I’ve yet to post some outstanding travelogues on several places. I have been documenting events as they happen, but am finding it hard to get all of my images together and edit my words and actually complete an official post. They are a comin' – as I relegate myself to bedrest for a day or two and get caught up (and reacquainted with Toronto).

Why bad karma?

The last time I was in NYC I was filming as part of an MTV Canada Diary on a Degrassi actress. I had hopped in the front seat of the cab and proceeded to film a bit of freeway signage on our way to Manhattan. When we got to the tunnel to Manhattan, I was in the process of putting my camera away when the car was SWARMED with security guards screaming at me, the cab driver and my sister (aka my P.A.) in unison. They berated me, interrogated me, took the camera and made me play back my footage, screamed at the driver and fined him for letting me sit in the front seat, and treated me like S-H-I-T. Turns out, after 9/11, filming is strictly prohibited on bridges, tunnels, airports and subways. You’d have thought someone would have prepped me on these new procedures in advance? ’Fraid not. So my eagerness to get an establishing shot of the Manhattan skyline became the beginning of a hellish couple of days for me. I’ve heard the skyline is copywritten anyhow….

I’m also glad my stomach has become a bit tougher from all of the traveling I’ve done (I used to get easily motion-sick) because I’d hate to think of what might happen if I really needed to sit up front in a NYC cab for nausea reasons in the future...What then?

This particular trip is also the same trip where security guards for a movie premiere pretty much manhandled me away from the red carpet I was filming from the sidelines (reaffirming that the job of a paparazzi really does suck) because the Film’s PR people didn’t think the project I was representing meant enough to America to give me decent access....

Basically, I’ m saying that I find NYC the worst place thus far in my career to film in. Everyone wants something, if there’s nothing in it for them, they won’t help you out. People leer and ask you about your camera, then bump into you as you are carrying it anyways…..

This time round, I was all pumped and ready for the main event – the main reason for my trip to New York – the Burlesque Festival. A couple of days prior to the event, I was told that I would not be able to film during the gala show – which was the event I had been planning my whole trip around. The Bad Karma of NYC strikes again!

I think I’ve given New York a fair chance. It will take a lot to get me to be excited about filming there again (at least where venues and major organizations are concerned).

Now that I’ve vented, let’s get to the good stuff.

Burlesque rocks! I think I will forever be awed by the brazenness of these ladies. Their shapes, sizes and ages do vary – as do their performance styles.... if you've never experienced a show, you really should, if only to witness the lightning speed growing popularity of the form.

I just wish I could have experienced this one...

Because of rain delays, I was unable to attend the first night of the three day festival – so I was beyond excited for the big Gala at the Supper Club. Once inside, my sister (who came to PA for me as New York is too overwhelming for me solo) and I quickly realized that clear views of the stage were hard to come by. As the beginning of the event drew nearer, we frantically tried to position ourselves to see the show we had been waiting for. What ended up happening is we moved back and forth, upstairs and downstairs, catching glimpses here and there of full bodies but could really only see the faces of the performers. The faces we saw were quite lovely, but we were here to see the whole package -- beaming faces just weren't going to cut it.

I'm just glad I got my first taste of burlesque at a smaller venue where I could see every intimate detail of each performance at the Drake, with "Skin Tight Outta Sight".

The Supper Club was a pretty bad venue for this type of show. Had they been able to raise the stage a foot, everyone would have been able to see. After straining our necks and leaning against a table for 3 hours (catching glimpses of a feather fan being waved here, and a titty tassle glinting there) we called it a nite. The show wasn’t over – in fact Dirty Martini, one of the women we had come to see, had yet to go on. But the thought of only seeing her head shimmy and shake would frustrate me, so we called it a nite.

Besides, we had to get pumped up and rested for tomorrow’s Boat Cruise!

The Epicentre of Bootymania?

2006-09-05T14:13:00.000-07:00

After a lovely morning with Artemis, a Greek makeup artist I grabbed a frappe with in Astoria, we had a bit of time to wander the city (read: shop) before I had to meet up with my last gal – the infamous JIGGLES.

Ok, her name is not Jiggles, but rather the girl who has intrigued me from the moment I stumbled across her website a few months back and ordered her book. Here was a young German gal with a booty who was basically ostracized in her country for not having the lean physique German women covet, who discovered the epicenter (arguably) of the booty phenomenon when she moved to New York. So she set out to research and self publish a book on booty culture – done in precisely the same cheeky tone that I am planning for my film! Her branding is PHENOMENAL, really gives you a feel for her approach and her book has almost been a reassurance to me (as I realize I’ve covered a lot of similar subject matter and sources through my own research). The biggest challenge now, is how to connect with her and through our separate projects, help each other.

She was even prettier and more polished than I expected – most pics in her book had her hair in wild gorgeous curls and dressed casually, but we were meeting up with her on a break from work so she had the total professional look going on. She told me that she was still crossing her fingers that her agent would make a sale on the book, but nothing was moving forward. I could relate to her frustration perhaps disillusionment. I know what it’s like to have a product that you know there is a willing market for, but trying to convince a senior authority figure that you are on to something.

But to me, her’s is the more compelling story – not only because her booty truly defines her look, but because she’s made her project work entirely on her own terms. Self publishing is no small feat! How's that for a labor of love? I believe you can or will be able to order her book online again soon, so support an artist (and amuse and educate yourself on the female posterior) and pick up this book!

I see good things for us down the line – my only regret is that we would have benefited from an evening of chatting over dinner vs a brief coffee midday…. Hopefully we’ll get that chance.

In the brief walk back to her office, I only saw a taste of what happens to men when she’s around. Great example: a man in a three piece suit did a TRIPLE take, and suddenly changed his route, following us down the street. My sister and I said goodbye to Sarah at her office and stood under the awning, plotting our next move, when the man passed by AGAIN, and noticed our companion was no longer with us. He passed by a THIRD time, realizing that the beauteous booty was gone for good, and retreated into the street. I was floored. Absolutely floored. Who had any idea that the booty held THAT MUCH power in NYC?

Booties in Broad Daylight

2006-09-03T21:13:00.000-07:00

(behold the crookedness!)

I will admit, at first the idea of touring the New York harbour on a day cruise, with alcohol and performing burlesque troupes sounded beyond fabulous. Factor in a really rocky ride, and a bit too long to set sail, and an unexpected heat -- here’s where things started to get bad. I even had the foresight to pop a few ginger capsules before the trip to prepare myself – and yet somehow, the rocking really got to me, as well as my sister, and a good chunk of the other guests.

My overactive imagination went wild, imagining the barf fest that could have unfolded – particularly because a lot of these folks were up late the last nite drinking and partying.

Remarkably, I didn’t see anyone get too sick, just lots of queasy, green faces. So I sipped some gingerale, chewed gingerly on some pretzels, and did my best to shoot – this was going to be my only footage of this glamourous event I had been so anticipating – I haven’t had a chance to watch it back yet, but we’ll see if there are obvious signs of swaying….

All in all, the World Famous Pontani Sisters did a great job (they are fabulous themselves, but were too wrapped up in pulling off their event to chat with me) and I find myself really drawn to burlesque…..

I really enjoyed the performances I saw. Apparantly, I missed the most elaborate, advanced performances the night before (I'll take their word for it **grumble**)... but I still enjoyed what I saw, especially because these were the women who had the guts to perform in broad daylight on a pitching boat!

My favourite was Sparkly Devil from Detroit who did a “Snakes on a Plane’ inspired piece that was so vicious it was fabulous! (She was someone I had been hoping to have a face to face meeting with, but our schedules wouldn’t allow). Great stuff!!

Even amidst all of the delectable divas having a great time, we found ourselves stumbling off of that boat as soon as we could!

In the evening, I had the pleasure of finally sitting down and chatting with the lovely Michelle L’Amour.

You might have seen her on America’s Got Talent as the controversial “stripper” who threw her bra at Brandy. FYI, she is in fact not a stripper but a trained burlesque performer who’s been given the nickname “the ass that goes POW”… My kinda girl!

She and her partner Franky and I chatted about booty, her career and changing people’s perceptions about body image and burlesque – I really feel this girl could be a great role model for younger girls. She’s petite, demure, pretty, talented, and not the least bit affected. She’s also on the same wave length as me, in terms of really trying to carve a niche for herself and maximize it. She’s by far my favourite at the moment – and I still have to wait until Sep 8th to see her perform (yes folks, the Booty is coming to T.O.!!) I also love the fact that burlesque is a full-time commitment for her – teaching a new troupe, performing, and trying to build new opportunities…. And it’s always nice to find a little fit white girl with a booty!

Also was delighted to connect with Miss Dirty Martini!

I thought I had her pegged as a very raunchy, brazen young woman. In fact, she is a delightful lady with a sweet face, great curves and a unique-sounding voice. We met at her Monday night Bingo gig – guess there's always a first time for bingo in New York! She was dressed in a fetching Dorothy costume, complete with frilly white knickers that she was more than happy to bend over and show off.

Dirty has a part in SHORTBUS, the film Toronto's own Sook Yin Lee is in and is premiering at the Film Festival, so if you’re in Toronto, don’t be surprised if you spot this blonde vixen around. Total sweetheart – a bit of a mama hen for up-and-coming burlesque gals – she was kind enough to introduce us to the audience… I think she may be doing a show in Toronto this week too! I hope her tushie tassles come out to play!

Folks, picking a burlesque performer is going to be the hardest decision I have to make. They really are a fascinating bunch….

Here's to Tushies!

Tatyana

New "Bootylicious" Role Models Wanted -- Apply Within!

2006-08-31T13:07:00.000-07:00

I've had my first majorly negative response to this project. Bootys, self-acceptance, body-loving... I'm sure you're thinking "how could this be?" Well my friends, it can be. And, from a most unexpected place imaginable: Camp Beyonce.

Pretty much every girl with booty out there that I've spoken with has mentioned that they idolize J.Lo and Beyonce. J.Lo has fallen off our radar for the most part, without any new albums or movies (or perfumes) in the last little while, and I've always identified more with Beyonce's curves, so I went about trying to connect with her people to see if she'd like to be involved.

As you may or may not know, she's also a designer now (more accurately, her mom is) and has launched Dereon and House of Dereon. I approached the PR reps for Dereon (soooo eager to find out if the line would reflect the womanly body of Beyonce herself) to see about setting up something. The reply - good luck but no thanks. I realize that on the totem pole of status and tv programming, I'm barely a rung, but how could anyone associated with the Booty outright say no to such a venture without even the slightest bit of curiosity? I was surprised and disappointed.

Then, I started to read that Beyonce no longer wants to be associated with the term "Bootylicious". A little part of me died when I heard that -- here was the first real role model for today's generation of teens and women who had single-handedly coined a new term and welcomed in the booty phenomenon, now turning around and losing weight for a film role and denouncing anyone who calls her bootylicious. I can understand how one would get tired being known for one isolated body part, but at the same time, look at the impact it has had on body acceptance and women everywhere!

So, when I found out that Dereon would be at the trade show, I decided to pop by for a visit and see if I could get a clear answer to this mystery. I was also still eager to get a quote on booty and body image from Beyonce's mom, as she had been designing sexy outfits for her fabulously curvy daughter for a long time. I popped by the booth, and was met by a young, overwhelmed girl with a clipboard. I dont think she understood what I was asking, but she grabbed my card, disappeared into the "By Appointment Only" area of the booth (I don't believe I saw any such rules for any other booth in the entire show), and reappeared to tell me the PR rep's schedule was open all day tomorrow and I was free to stop by then to chat with him. It was the same rep I had been in touch with months back, so I figured I would try to say hello in person and explain what my project was really all about and at least find out a bit more about the line. I'm trying to make sure I'm up to date on all relevant brands as they pertain to women and body image....which involves research.

When I came back the next day, I asked the same girl to see the rep and she guestured beside her -- he was sitting there on his Blackberry. I introduced myself and was cut off with a sharp, dismissive "look, as I told you before, we're not interested" or something rude to that effect, before resuming his typing on the Blackberry.

I was floored.

I continued, explaining that I was at the trade show meeting other designers and wanted more info on Dereon, especially because Tina has gone on record saying she's designed for curves for a long time. Those who know me know that I'm always polite and hate misunderstandings...so I wanted to make sure the air was clear.

He insisted that perhaps I wasn't understanding him and continued to repeat over and over "not interested." It was more the tone and dismissiveness that caught me off guard and prompted me to try to defend myself. Why was I asked to come back in person, to be snapped at? Or did the vapid little girl with the big clipboard create a bit of confusion in the message sent and received? Regardless, here was this rep, who was supposed to be dealing with the press and handling their questions, dismissing me and barely letting me speak.

I tried one final, polite-as-always approach: "as a journalist looking for information on the brand, you are telling me that you wont even give me press material, which is for informational purposes?" And he replied with....well, let's just say he could have been on an audio loop....

At this point, I was shocked, angry, confused and.... angry! I had never been spoken to that way by anyone I've approached for any project. Realizing the dead-endedness of the conversation, I said "that's too bad" and left.

I know PR reps are an often stressed-out bunch, dealing with persistent, rude people, but I am shocked at the level of social skills of a select few I've met. Especially because I am a super non-aggressive person and always approach people with graciousness and compassion.

So I've been left to make my own assumptions. Maybe the line doesnt want to be associated with Booty in any way, shape or form... it's very possible. But to think that this is the brand behind the WOMAN that sooooo many girls thank their lucky stars made the booty famous so that they could feel accepted, makes me feel ill.

The irony in all this is that I've never really been keen on celebrity in documentaries. I feel that throwing a celebrity comment in a film builds exposure and an all-too-easy way to get eyeballs... I'm far more interested in the down-to-earth, unaffected women out there, making waves and a difference without the luxury of the open door that celebrity-status offers. In this case, I just couldn't escape how many women quote the song Bootylicious and Beyonce as a role model.

But, in a film about women, empowerment, self-acceptance, and lovin' our curves, there is no room for rudeness and ego. Not much I can do, other than find new role models through my film for girls to go goo-goo over!

I'm over it. Find me a new Beauty with Booty!

Tatyana

The Birthplace of Showgirl Booty

2006-08-30T12:53:00.000-07:00

I've never been to Vegas before. Weird? I've never really been into gambling, and there somehow has always been somewhere else to visit that's taken precedence. So imagine how distracting it would be should you be spending your first ever trip to Vegas on business... I mean, the distractions start as soon as you walk off of the plane:

(slots in the airport!)

(magnificent party spots)

(even evening excursions beckon you...)

But I'm a dedicated filmmaker and I know what my Vegas goals are. I'm in town for the MAGIC show. Until a few months ago, I knew nothing of this event, but the excitement has been building ever since I received my press passes to the event. It's the biggest fashion trade show (buyer's market) in the world and an annual event that even makes the always-extravagant-and-over-the-top locale like Vegas salivate greedily -- EVERYONE in town looks forward to MAGIC.

So there I was with my friend Steve, who so graciously offered to operate camera and deal with releases, ready to tackle this huge event that takes over both the Hilton and the entire Vegas Convention Centre for 4 days each year. How is this show relevant? All of the biggest and hottest designers are in town, and my interest in booty-celebrating denim brought me here. Plus, the "Streetwear" area always seems to bring in a mix of celebrities, booty models, entertainers, etc. It seemed like the right place to be to tackle a topic that clearly affects the fashion industry.

We check into Bally's and get our game plan together. It's already Day 2 of the event and everything is in full swing (in hindsight, I should have arrived a day prior to get organized). We got to the show and the grandeur of it all hit us then and there. 100 000 people were registered for the event. It makes the Banff TV World Festival seem like a little intimate gathering in comparison! I was lucky to have someone to help out or I fear I would have been swallowed up by the crowds alone.

(this should give you an idea of the crowds)

We actually missed a ton of celebrity sightings because it takes a fair bit of time to figure out where everything is located, plus the time it takes to get from one area to another.... next time I go (if I ever get to again), I'll be ready!

After we got our press passes, we walked into the Womenswear area only to find that model Joanna Krupa was making an appearance at the Dollhouse booth. Excuse my ignorance, but I wasn't aware that she was one of the sexiest women in the world as declared by MAXIM. But there she was, in a stunning white dress, though she was promoting jeans, signing autographs and doing interviews. She was kind enough to talk to us about her booty and her new campaign, which was very exciting -- my first "celebrity" streeter! She was lovely, articulate, and extremely unaffected, which is always refreshing....

Though the ad is fab, she doesn't really appear to have a booty in person...though she talks about her "curves" in the interview... it's all so very confusing to me.... I do love the new campaign for Dollhouse though that centres around the tag line "You are Beautiful". :)

The days have all sort of blurred together, but we met a bunch of swimwear designers -- I was interested more in the bootys on the girls modeling then the actual swimwear lines (as no one seems to intentionally be making bottoms for girls with bottoms (the way denim finally is).... my cameraman got some lovely full-frame bikini-clad booty moments (how's that for a trip highlight?)... but my focus was on the denim.

Chatted with lots of South American designers. It's amazing how their product, even from afar, is clearly not American. The denim has so much stretch it looks like leggings. I have never seen so many beautiful South American gals up close then I did on this trip -- and it's no doubt that they celebrate the booty but I was disappointed to see that every model was also spilling out over her top, most as a result of noticeable surgical enhancements. There were some language barriers making it clear I could never get away with following a Latin designer around as part of the film -- too much lost in the translation! :)

We even came across a South American company that is very blunt about it's featured product: "Butt-Lifter Jeans". The mannequins being used to display these designs were actually TWO BALLOONS! After i got over the silliness of this, I marveled at how they gave a great, round, plump display effect.

Chatted with Apple Bottoms and PZI Jeans. The latter is a fledgling company out of Atlanta that is really making waves for women with larger waist to hip ratios.... the models in that booth took my breath away -- regular girls with beautiful, natural faces and amazing bootys. There was even a Caucasian girl showing off her rump! I'm loving the vibe of this company... and will definitely keep tabs on them.

The remainder of the time, we trolled the stands, shot b-roll, looked for people to comment on booty, and took it all in....

Because of all the showgirl booty in town, I did my darndest to get access to some events. Again, in hindsight, we didn't even scratch the surface. If anyone has been to see Crazy Girls, La Femme or Jubilee, please let me know! Also, fatigue caught up with me and I lost a couple of evenings as a result.

We did see Cirque de Soleil's ZUMANITY. This was my first Cirque show ever! I've always tried to get Cirque tix when a show is in town but they are always insanely expensive and by the time I come to a decision to go, they are all sold out. The show was pretty good. Music and costumes were stunning. A couple of the acts really left an impression -- particularly the tissue artist performing to moans, groans and gasps -- it was really an indescribable sight and the show really does take you through a journey of emotions.... trust me on this one. There were several asses of note that I plan on following up on, which was exciting.... and I loved that every woman (and most of the men) were wearing thongs, making the booty a focal point!

Last activity on the schedule -- meeting up with a woman named Shedini. I had found her on the internet when I came across her show "Booty Magic". She is an illusionist/showgirl and as it turns out, her show had little to do with booty (or any more so than any Vegas show with the obligatory T & A), but she was an interesting character and a resource into the Showgirl world. She and her friend met us at the Bally's bar, then we drove down to the bronzed Crazy Girls monument at the Riviera where Shedini talked to us on camera about what makes a good showgirl booty, how historically showgirls have always been fairly small chested with the focus around the booty, etc, etc. As for Booty Magic, the show is no longer running but living in a town like Vegas, I'm sure she'll come up with something new before you know it.

She didnt have a major booty -- quite thin actually -- apparently she'd lost weight because her My Space pics told a different story, but her charisma was ooooozing! And she kept me laughing all evening! She wanted to become an illusionist because she got tired of being the magician's assistant that was always getting put in the box and often saving the magician's ass because she was the one doing the escaping! Can't say I've ever met anyone quite like Shedini -- it was a real treat!

Some miscellaneous photos:

I feel (as I'm sure most people do after a brief few days) that I've only scratched the surface of this weird and wonderful world that is Vegas, but it leaves something for next time.

My cross-country rump (romp) is almost over.....
Tatyana

Another sunshiney day in So Cal....

2006-08-28T11:30:00.000-07:00

Another sunshiney day in So Cal....

Wandered the Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica a bit which was too congested for my liking (and/or myshopping needs) but perfect for people (and street performer) watching...

I realized today that I’m getting burnt out. Also, being alone for this long is starting to get to me. As I wandered down to Santa Monica Pier today, I realized that its hard to be alone in your own thoughts in public in a foreign place when you also have to have a certain guard up….

Never really done the tourist thing alone but the Pier was beautiful and I like walking and thinking – so long as I don’t get too wrapped up in my thoughts and stick to well lit areas, I should be ok.....