the professors hoody with patches on the elbow.

feb 9.

get tired. the sleepiness begins.

at the doctors office

june 13. one of the lucky few.

it's good to be king

sometimes you need to drink wine out of a cartoon sized goblet. it's good to be king...

Interview in Bed

First off, rather than freak out, call the stores carrying the Obama shirt and I'm sure some, if not all, will do phone orders on 1-20-09. They WILL be carried at Loserkids in San Diego, and the reason for the exclusives is that until we relaunch in Feb. 09, we can't add anything new online. So this is a bit of a hold over. That's all. And once the relaunch occurs, about 90% of the products will be available to all online (with a few exclusives here and there for physical stores). So take a deep breathe and let's allow the happiness of 1-20-09 to fill our lungs, before we start hating on it.

Oh, here's a video that has me scratching my head. Steven Spielberg being interviewed by Warhol on a bed back in the 70's. With Bianca Jagger randomly watching. And there isn't a lot of "making sense" involved, which has me thinking that maybe E.T. and Close Encounters had some help in the "trip out visuals department." 

Video via Defamer.com

grand opening...

this obama shirt will be limited to 144 pieces. it will cost 23 dollars. they will only be available at the chicago landmark store, gallery1988 in los angeles, gallery1988 in san fran and hopefully loser kids in san diego. starting on january 20th- celebrate with us. a portion of the proceeds will be donated to the K.I.D.S. charity- an organization that obama has worked with in the past.

Our Ice Cream Maker

Pete debuted, and recently has been wearing at shows, an upcoming design from Clandestine that we're calling "Angry Ice Cream." I stole the picture below from Pete's blog to give you another sneak peek.

Well, I wanted to give you guys a small glimpse into the world of the artist who designed this shirt, Simon 

Oxley. Oxley is a British designer/illustrator, who currently is living in Japan. His character designs have

been seen in Pictoplasma's Character Encyclopedia, which is so dope you should use your Barnes & Noble

X-Mas Gift Card on it. Here's a small glimpse of Simon's work, outside of our favorite frustrated desert that

is sure to make you smile (especially if you're on some sort of holiday vacation and hence, prone to more

happiness than usual).

You can see more of Simon's work not only once we relaunch Clan in February or when Fall Out Boy comes

to your town, but also at Simon's own website, idokungfoo.com, where has TONS of cool product for sale.

My Top 10 Films of 2008 - Year 15

As a Filmic Writing grad (a degree I've used soo much running an art gallery and clothing line), every year I find myself creating a top ten list of my favorite films, acting almost like Stadler and Waldorf taking my place on the balcony, tomatoes in tow. Actually, I think this is my 15th straight year doing this self-important countdown (it started with middle school pal B.J. - who know is a projectionist at the Director's Guild theatre in LA) but since I see almost every movie possible (and yes, I have a first hand account that "Leatherheads" was awful) - I figured why discontinue a time honored tradition? This year's list is a little more mainstream than years past, as most of these films you've probably seen (or will see), but that doesn't make it bad, Guy With Screen Name LuisBunuelFan34. Just make sure to take a peek at the "Movies I Haven't Seen Yet" list at the bottom for frame of reference. 

10. Tie - Tropic Thunder / Rachel Getting Married

Number 10 is always a tie. It's the easiest thing to do when you're indecisive. That or don't make lists. 

I'm still confused with people who didn't like Tropic Thunder. Like Nazis, I assume they are people who can't have fun (and kill Jews). But, I do agree that Ben Stiller has become painful in general. EXCEPT when he's directing himself (i.e. Cable Guy, Zoolander and this one). Then he's genius. And maybe it's because I love "Apocalypse Now" / "Hearts of Darkness" - but this war film / Hollywood spoof seemed almost perfect to me, although I wasn't as into the Tom Cruise cameo as the rest of the world (seemed glim, Matt). But Downey Jr. puts in my favorite comedic performance of the year, while Jack Black finally plays subtle again, and is awesome. 

And Rachel Getting Married spotlights Anne Hathaway, in a performance that would earn her the Oscar, if she weren't so young. Almost channeling Ricky Gervais, her character makes you cringe with all her awkward family interactions during an intense weekend getting ready for her sister's wedding. TV On Radio's constant soundtrack makes you realize why dudes in tight jeans and ironic glasses (MINE ARE REAL, OK?) have been praising them for the past few years. The film might be heavy, but don't be scared to let out a laugh even when you think it's inappropriate. Not a matinee movie to see with your 6-year-old nephew, unless your 6-year-old nephew is a recovering addict. Then, it might be helpful - but then I think going to the movies should be low on your priority list.

9. The Dark Knight

Because I'm a comic book reader you'd think I'd have this new Batman chapter closer to number 1, right? I know, I did too. Not sure why I don't really. I just think the film didn't stick with me as much as I thought it would. Loved Heath (who will win the Supporting Actor Oscar), loved the direction and just overall loved the movie, but other films this year seemed to mean more to me. Wasn't ecstatic about Two-Face or how they pulled the Aunt Viv on Fresh Prince switcheroo to Katie Holmes - but I watched the movie again on Blu-Ray recently - only to be totally blown away one more time. I just like it at number 9. That's really as creative as I'm gonna get for the reasoning. 

8. Frost/Nixon

I love me some historic retelling. Went into this one thinking I'd hate it, assuming it was Ron Howard schlock, but like that time I predicted Master P would run for Senate one day, I was dead wrong (sadly, not joking). An incredible tale of corruption, accountability and American politics, Frost/Nixon creates and maintains an intense tone throughout the movie, which is weird considering the climax has two dudes staring at each other from comfortable chairs. Acting nominations will obviously follow for the two males leads (but they will both lose) and Opie will get his obligatory nomination, but I strongly recommend this movie to anyone interested in intriguing political stories (i.e. Michael Clayton, All The President's Men, Bio-Dome).

7. Iron Man

Yes, I did like Iron Man more than The Dark Knight, but that might have something to do with my taste in comics more than cinema. I think most people will read that and act like I just said I liked Pacey more than Dawson (which I did). Well, I just like Iron Man more. Always have. I read Batman, but I usually cling more to the villains in his stories - while I'm always rooting for the arrogant and pompous Tony Stark to save the day and kill bad dudes. Robert Downey Jr. (the only actor to be in 2 films in this year's Top 10 - thanks, sobriety) makes it seem like Iron Man couldn't have been portrayed on the big screen if he wasn't acting (or if the studio wasn't able to insure him). Jon Favreau, a personal fav of mine, does an incredible job tackling a large movie (rent Zathura for his first, it's not bad) and the inclusion of a Ghostface Killah video in the background of the private jet scene made the hip-hop nerd in me C.R.E.A.M. in my pants (I know, gross. But that is most likely the first ever Wu-Tang pun published. I bow.)

6. Wall-E

Technically not the lowest a cartoon with minimal dialogue has placed (that distinction goes to 2003's Triplets of Belleville), but at this point, even if Pixar released a full length cartoon of Hitler winning the Nobel Peace Prize, it'd still make my list. They are a young Mark Price at the free throw line; They don't miss. This heart warmer about a robot who goes emo is proof that although some companies have stepped up their animated game (Disney's Bolt, Dreamworks' Kung Fu Panda), there's only one House That Steve Jobs Aimlessly Invested In And Got Lucky With, and that's Pixar. Their 2009 entry, "UP," will have a spot saved for it come December 2009 cause even the new trailer has me excited. I doubt you have, but make sure you don't miss this film, especially in its new Blu-Ray release, as the sprawling landscapes and detail, with minimal need to over emphasis both in visuals and storytelling, can only be compared to classic visuals from movies like "Once Upon A Time In America" or "How The West Was Won." If "Snow White" was Pong, Wall-E is the virtual reality video game they play in "Lawnmower Man," it's existance and evolution is barely believeable.

5. Let The Right One In

The best movie you'll never see, Let The Right One In is the best Swedish import since the Chef from the Muppets. Also, the best movie with a title derived from a Morrissey song (but here's to hoping there's a movie in development called "You're The One For Me, Fatty.") It's the tale of a disenchanted, confused 12-year-old boy in Stockholm, who befriends his new neighbor, a young mysterious girl who most definately is a vampire. And not in that "cute Buffy The Vampire Slayer kill while wearing Spandex then tell a joke way". It's a love story, a horror film and a black comedy involving children vampires. It's basically what I want my real life to be like. And yes, it's subtitled, but it's also absolute brilliance so let's make reading fundamental just this one time.

4. Milk

Not much funny to stuff to write about this one, as Sean Penn is directed by Gus Van Sant in this moving and extremely relevant biopic of Harvey Milk, the first openly gay politician in America - and the tragic story of his assassination. It's basically an actin clinic with Penn completely losing himself to the character and charm of Milk, while Emile Hirsch, James Franco and Diego Luna (who weirdly gets a bad rap in some reviews) all turn in perfect supporting roles. I'm pretty sure those who marched in the Castro back during Milk's time in office thought it couldn't get any worse for homosexuals and their civil rights, but we've sadly proven them wrong. I do wish everyone who voted Yes on Prop 8 here in California was able to see this movie on their way to their local polls, because this film's power would carry more importance today than during any other time in history. Great film.

3. Burn After Reading

If I had twins I might name them Joel and Ethan. Even if they were girls. That's how big of a Coen Brothers fan I am. They alone made me want to go to film school. Every film they've made since I started making these lists have found their way into the top 10 (yes, even "Ladykillers" and "Intolerable Cruelty"). And Burn After Reading is the closest they've come to replicating my favorite Coen Brothers film (and a former number 1) "The Big Lebowski" - so it's pretty obvious how much I loved this film. With stars Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Tilda Swinton, John Malkovich and Frances McDormand, the plot weaves in and out like Steve Kerr running the '91 Bulls offense. It involves government secrets being handled by physical trainers, which sounds a lot like the last 8 years. And someone please give J.K. Simmons the recognition he deserves. Known mostly as Juno's dad, the dude steals this movie from some of the industry's biggest names in no more than 5 minutes of screen time. Just released on DVD and Blu-ray, pick it up and celebrate aimless importance.

2. Slumdog Millionaire

The only movie on the list I saw twice, it really could've been number 1 without an issue (or my personal experience being factored in). Danny Boyle is another one of my favorites since his first film "Shallow Grave," and I believe he should (and will) win the Oscar for Best Director and Best Picture for this one. The tale of a Indian kid who may have caught tons of bad breaks, but realizes those tough times might just help him win the jackpot on India's "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire." This no doubt will be 2008's big winner and it deserves to be. Also, I think EVERY film should end with a choreographed dance number. I don't care if it's Schindler's List, have the actors come back out and bust a move, almost like a Broadway curtain call with Wade Robson hosting. It just makes everything better. Just imagine Dame Judi Dench doing Soulja Boy's Crank Dat dance once the credits rolled on "Notes On A Scandal." Supaman dat ho. 

1. The Wrestler

I'm biased on this one, having spent a few months on the road as a staff writer for WWE's Monday Night Raw a few years back, but Darren Aronofsky's tale of a broken down former main event wrestler is an epic and heart-breaking journey through some seriously depressing eyes. Mickey Rourke should be given the Best Actor Oscar now, rather than having to wait any longer and falsely giving hope to Dustin Hoffman in that "I'm Old, But Dating" movie. And Marissa Tomei has boldly claimed her spot as the Go-To Show Your Boobs Girl, possibly even getting her another Supporting Actress win (this time without those pesky Jack Palance announced the wrong name rumors). The script, written by a former head writer of The Onion (which is kind of like me writing "Sisterhood Of The Travelling Pants"), is almost too realistic, making me wonder how many of the older wrestlers I worked with, and wrote alongside, the dude has met. Springsteen's closing credit song is worth the movie ticket price alone. Wanna know how realistic this movie is? Rent documentary and former Top 10'er "Beyond The Mat" and realize where some inspiration came from. Long Live The Ram.

And that's another list. 

Honorable Mention (no order) -

Bolt 3-D, Forgetting Sarah Marshall, The Visitor, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, Zack and Miri Make A Porno, Kung Fu Panda, American Teen, Choke, The Wackness, Speed Racer, Step Brothers, Doubt

Movies I Did Not See Yet, Which Would Probably Affect How Serious You Take My List - 

W., Gran Torino, Happy Go Lucky, Revolutionary Road, Role Models, Vicky Cristina Barcelona, The Reader

Last year's Number One. Again, to judge me -

There Will Be Blood

Burton

Every Christmas I try and break out Tim Burton's "Nightmare Before X-Mas" and live in its ecstasy. And I was planning on just posting its trailer right now, as it's obvious how much its aesthetics have not only affected everything I've done artistically since, including the graphics seen in Clan's February relaunch, but also what it's obviously meant to Pete. But while searching for the trailer, I saw these two upcoming clips. First up, the Burton produced "9" - which looks pretty stellar.

And secondly, "Coraline," which will be a 3-D release in February 2009, and I think I could line up right now

in anticipation.

So the plan was to stick to nostalgia with "Nightmare Before Christmas," but I've realized the future looks 

even brighter. Something to think about for all of us really.

While we're on the subject of movies, look for my Top 10 Movies List this weekend, as it will actually be my

15th year of compiling this list - and I'm stoked this year to be able to publish it here for you all. Merry

Christmas, people.

And To All A Good Night.

Put a little love in your heart. From the new Clan to you, Merry Christmas.

my fascination with all things japanese continues

ever since my first trip to japan i've been fascinated by all things japanese. mind you, this was even before my current obsession with sneaker and streetwear culture. i was always mindblown by how the japanese can take something american and just plain do it better.

case in point is a company called loopwheeler which uses ancient (but better) technology to make insanely comfortable sweatshirts. what makes them better you ask? a terribly inefficient and painstakingly slow machine called "loopwheel" that can only knit one meter (about a yard) of fabric PER HOUR. all told, each machine only churns out enough fabric to make 8-9 sweatshirts IN A DAY. the result is a shirt made without any excess tension that is unusually soft and durable.

nike sportswear recently collaborated with loopwheeler to produce a limited number of sweatshirts and hoodies along with this nike blazer mid that i was lucky enough to pick up at their temporary event space in LA's montalban theater.



check out more on loopwheeler here. gotta love the sketchy japanese-to-english translation...

Cruel Shoes

I haven't been a "sneaker guy" in quite some time. I put that term in quotes because it's become quite a strange moniker to have these days. You can't just be into shoes anymore, because since the days of Nelly buying "2 perrrrr" - it's become more about obsession than an actual love for the physical shoe. And in this new rabid environment of sneaker collecting, I was never going to buy "one pair to wear, one pair to stare," build a custom closet for just the boxes or wait in line starting at 3 AM for a limited edition Nike Dunk (we'll leave that to the Korean Tom Cruise), so I decided to just give it all up. But a recent visit to HighSnobiety.com has me second guessing my abrupt decision to just walk away. Take a looksy at these gems for the feet that have inspired me all day to take Clan even further in the future.

Vans Watermelon Pack (part of their 2009 Fruits collection)

Nike Blazer High

Nike Air Jordan 1 Low Phat

Nike Air Jordan Force VI

Supra "Timbos" (get your iggity-early 90's Das Efx on)

Converse 100th Anniversary Collection

Mita x Lacoste Missouri 85 Mid

Supra Suprano High Purple Metallic (how fast do you think Lil' Wayne put these on?)

Figured it might give you some inspiration too. Maybe, maybe not. But with these kicks, "Burn After Reading" hitting Blu-Ray this last weekend and the lights of Christmas everywhere, I'm ready for the New Year and new ideas.

The 2nd Happiest Place on Earth

Most of the items featured in the February relaunch of Clandestine will be rendered by San Diego artist Andrew Wilson, who was earlier known for his work creating all the Fresh Only Bakery graphics for Vlad the Baker (he claims, "Vlad was a serious slave driver, but may he rest in peace nonetheless"). Andrew is not only an amazing artist, but a really good dude. And ideas come out of his imagination that I truly believe has never been thought of before. For example...check out his personal "Post-It Pet" versions of some classic characters you may recognize from that theme park in Anaheim, CA and Florida. 

Wait till you see the whole line Andrew has helped Pete and I with for 2009, but until then you can see

more of Andrew's work at his blog by CLICKING HERE.

The Definition of a Relaunch

Main Entry:	relaunch
Part of Speech:	v, n
Definition:	to reintroduce a product or brand to the market after changes or improvements have been made

 Pete was telling me today that a lot of people are being haters and saying stuff like, "How many times is Clandestine gonna relaunch?" or "They've done this before, it's not a big deal," and much like when Spencer Pratt is on a magazine cover, that hurts my soul. This is totally the first relaunch that Clandestine has ever went through. Sure, they've had changes in the past, but this is a major overhaul. New art direction, new design team, new brand goals, new production company, new website, even a new place where your clothing is shipped from. We've done work in the past, but now it's basically starting all over, like when Tawny Kitaen and Rodney King leave Celebrity Rehab and now are in Sober Liv...wait, am I alone is watching that? Anyway, this isn't anything Clan has done in the past - it's a facelift of mass proportions. 

And like that - the record is set straight.

Beats by Ron

I thought the Instant Messaging with DJ Dan Suh while he was in mid flight to NY would be the coolest thing I did today, but I was wrong. I stopped by my girlfriend's work for lunch and saw the Ron Herman colorway of the insanely dope Beats By Dre headphones. My girlfriend works at RonHerman.com, and the Ron Herman boutique store on Melrose in the Fred Segal center and RonHerman.com are the only non-franchise retail outlets able to carry the headphones. And on top of that, by permission of the Dr. himself, were given an exclusive color way in Ron's signature blue and white. Rumor had them making 20 of them, you can email them if you are interested. This joins the ranks of Lebron James's red version and Interscope recording artist Charles Hamilton's pink version. Here are some pics I snuck...

Yes, We Can (If Approved).

I know we're all familiar with this logo by now...

...even Clandestine is about to give it a nice little remix (more on that soon). But much like

my last post about rejected shirt designs, there is always a cutting room floor. And Obama's

campaign is no different. A recent interview with Sol Sender, the man who led the design team

for Barack's campaign broke it down and even revealed the rejected attempts. Like these:

Seems so weird to me seeing the "misses," since the approved logo became such a vital part of 

American life in 2008. It's like finding out they almost went with a shadow profile of Bill 

Gates or a happy laughing worm for the Apple logo.

You can check out the whole interview with Sender and more rejected attempts 

by CLICKING HERE.

Followed

I see we have two "followers" on the blog already. Good news, since I think we'll have a bunch more joining soon when Pete announces it on his blog, and once the dude himself starts blogging here. Figured since you are early birds, we'd give you a glimpse at the cutting room floor here at Clan. This is a design we passed on for this February's relaunch, but why not give it some shine, right?

I won't spoil the reference, just to see if any of you can get it. We all thought it was a bit too obscure...but still very ultimate.

You'll never see it again. Poof.

i'm not usually a hater when it comes to all things whack. usually i just kinda do the old "huh" for a second and move on. however, reebok's most recent attempt at cashing in on the "fashion high top" phenomenon just comes across as a rip off of the nike "air yeezy" which itself is inspired by other crazy high tops (see: lanvin and dior homme).
big velcro straps?
check
bright annoying colors?
check
hey reebok, the reason lanvins are dope is because they cost an arm and a leg and you have to go to france or some shit to buy them. $90 footaction exclusive doth not make ye hip.

Connect the Atomic Dots

Between Pete's NY Times picture...



...and his personal sneak on the PW blog...



...you can almost put together "Bomby McGee," a new t-shirt dropping from Clan at the Feb. relaunch. ALMOST!

quagmire dunks. giggity giggity!

here's a leaked pic of new nike sb dunks inspired by glenn quagmire from family guy. who's excited for the cleveland spin off show?


(source: sneakernews.com)