Connect with us

News

What The Cast Of Hardball Looks Like Now

Published

on

Released in 2001, the sports comedy-drama Hardball wasn’t received particularly well by critics. Robert Koehler of Variety wrote that “there’s no cork inside Hardball, but there’s more than enough corn,” while Moira Macdonald of the Seattle Times claimed the Brian Robbins-directed film is “just dreadful.” Keanu Reeves’ starring turn as slob-turned-role-model Conor O’Neill even earned him a Razzie Award nomination for worst actor. The film did resonate fairly well with audiences, however, scoring a decent 70 percent among viewers on review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes. 

Revisiting Hardball years later, it’s possible to make the argument that it’s actually aged quite well, thanks to the film’s cast of smart-mouthed Chicago middle-schoolers contrasted against Keanu’s, well, Keanu-ness. But what happened to those kids, anyway? Aside from Black Panther’s Michael B. Jordan, you probably haven’t seen any of these championship ballers since. Let’s find out what the Kekambas and crew have been up to since taking home the hardware, and take a look at what the cast of Hardball looks like now.

Keanu Reeves — Conor O’Neill

Playing Conor O’Neill, a washed up nobody who smokes too many cigarettes and has a serious gambling addiction, Keanu Reeves is the undisputed star of Hardball. In the span of 106 minutes, we watch Reeves evolve from a broke loser who can’t even find a pair of correctly-sized slacks to a clean-cut hero who permanently alters the lives of ten inner-city children. It’s heartwarming, really.

After taking his kids to the championship (and a Cubbies game), Reeves reprised his more recognizable role as Neo in The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions, and notably went on to star in Something’s Gotta Give, Constantine, The Lake House, A Scanner Darkly, John Wick, and John Wick: Chapter 2 — just to name a few

Today, Reeves remains as famously low-key, well-dressed, and stealthily charitable as ever, while fans of the gun-fu genre will be delighted to learn that he’ll star in John Wick: Chapter 3. The third installment in the Chad Stahelski-directed movie series started filming on April 26, 2018.

Diane Lane — Elizabeth Wilkes

Before playing the strict and no-nonsense middle-school teacher Elizabeth Wilkes in Hardball, Diane Lane had already established herself as a leading figure in Hollywood, thanks to her roles in George Roy Hill’s 1979 film A Little Romance, The Outsiders, and A Walk on the Moon.

After hooking up O’Neill with both a job and some romance, Lane continued to star and play supporting roles in a slew of films, including The Perfect Storm, Under the Tuscan Sun, Cinema Verite, and Trumbo. Fans of the superhero genre will also recognize Wilkes from her role as Martha Kent in Man of Steel, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, and Justice League.

It’s obvious that, since Hardball’s release in 2001, Lane hasn’t aged a day. She’ll next be seen starring alongside Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Jason Clarke, Djimon Hounsou, and Jeremy Strong in Steven Knight’s American noir thriller Serenity.

John Hawkes — Ticky Tobin

Don’t be fooled by his unimpressive supporting role as the sketchy ticket-hawking gambler Ticky Tobin in Hardball — John Hawkes is arguably the film’s most accomplished actor, albeit not its most famous.

Hawkes is easily recognized from his role as the merchant Sol Star in the HBO hit Western series Deadwood, but his most noteworthy performance is arguably that of meth addict Teardrop Dolly in Winter’s Bone, which earned him an Academy Award Nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Hawkes also played Mark O’Brien, a poet paralyzed from polio who hired a sex surrogate to take his virginity, in the 2012 independent film The Sessions. Both performances earned the actor a slew of award nominations, and some wins to boot.

Hawkes also went on to play Kenny Powers’ brother Dustin on HBO’s baseball comedy Eastbound & Down and is slated to star in 2018’s TV series Too Old to Die Young. But let’s be honest — everyone’s just waiting for that Deadwood revival.

Bryan Hearne — Andre Ray Peetes

After watching Hardball when it hit theatres, it would’ve been easy to assume that child-star Bryan Hearne had a promising acting career ahead of him. Not only did he stand out as the charismatic and stylish Andre Ray Peetes, he was also known to most kids as a regular on the hit Nickelodeon sketch-comedy show All That.

Surprisingly, Hearne’s acting career got caught somewhere in between first and second. Though he did play Little Trucky in Pootie Tang, the child star never landed another starring role or noteworthy gig. Instead, he only made cameo appearances on Taina, Whoopi, Lie to Me, Everybody Hates Chris, and The Unit.

Since his acting career never really went yard, Hearne transitioned into rapping. Going by the name Bryan Christopher, he raps about — among other things — being “the one who gave Amanda Bynes the drugs that made her the way she is now.” Unfortunately, his video for “Hopscotch” only has a handful of likes on YouTube, so it’s safe to assume Hearne’s rap career has also gone down looking.

Julian Griffith — Jefferson Albert Tibbs

Played by Julian Griffith, the inhaler-toting Jefferson Albert Tibbs is one of the more lovable and memorable characters on the Kekambas — which makes it all the more surprising that he, like many on the squad, never saw more success on the big screen. Aside from Hardball, Griffith only has one other acting credit to his name, playing a patrolman in a single episode of Chicago P.D.

Griffith did, however, find relative success off the screen as a real-life baseball player. The Kekambas’ first baseman ended up playing professional baseball with the Fort Worth Cats in Ft. Worth, TX, where he played both catcher and outfielder while batting a very respectable .329.

These days, Griffith primarily gives professional baseball lessons. You can keep up with him through his Instagram feed, where he occasionally shares videos of himself tearing the cover off the ball in the batting cage.

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

News

Trader Joe’s: A Unique Grocery Shopping Experience

Published

on

Trader Joe's: A Unique Grocery Shopping Experience

Discover the unparalleled shopping experience at Trader Joe’s, a renowned grocery store chain offering a wide range of high-quality products at affordable prices. Explore the diverse selection, innovative offerings, and friendly atmosphere that make Trader Joe’s a favorite destination for food enthusiasts.

Introduction: Welcome to Trader Joe’s

Trader Joe’s has revolutionized the grocery shopping industry with its distinctive approach to retail. With a commitment to providing unique and high-quality products, Trader Joe’s has garnered a loyal following of customers who are eager to explore the ever-changing assortment of items on their shelves. In this article, we will delve into the world of Trader Joe’s and explore the reasons why it stands out from the competition.

Trader Joe’s: A Shopper’s Paradise

A Haven for Food Enthusiasts

Trader Joe’s is more than just a grocery store; it’s a paradise for food enthusiasts. With an extensive selection of gourmet and specialty items sourced from around the world, Trader Joe’s caters to the discerning palate. From unique snacks and appetizers to artisanal cheeses and decadent desserts, there’s always something new and exciting to discover at Trader Joe’s.

Unbeatable Prices and Value

One of the hallmarks of Trader Joe’s is its commitment to providing exceptional value to its customers. While the store offers a wide range of high-quality products, it manages to keep its prices affordable. This combination of quality and value is what sets Trader Joe’s apart from its competitors, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious shoppers.

A Neighborhood Vibe

Step into any Trader Joe’s, and you’ll immediately notice the warm and welcoming atmosphere. With friendly staff members who are always ready to assist you, shopping at Trader Joe’s feels like a visit to your neighborhood store. The company prides itself on fostering a sense of community and creating an enjoyable shopping experience for its customers.

Exploring Trader Joe’s Selection

A Cornucopia of Fresh Produce

Trader Joe’s offers an impressive selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, sourced from trusted suppliers. Whether you’re in search of everyday staples or exotic produce, Trader Joe’s has you covered. From crisp apples to vibrant heirloom tomatoes, their produce section boasts a colorful array of options that will inspire any home cook.

Delightful Dairy and Cheese Selection

Cheese lovers rejoice! Trader Joe’s is renowned for its diverse selection of cheeses from around the world. From creamy Brie to tangy blue cheese, you’ll find a range of flavors and textures to suit your taste buds. Pair your favorite cheese with their assortment of crackers and you’re in for a treat.

International Flavors Galore

At Trader Joe’s, you can embark on a global culinary adventure without leaving the store. Their shelves are stocked with a wide variety of international ingredients and products, allowing you to explore different cuisines and expand your culinary horizons. Whether you’re in the mood for Thai curry, Italian pasta, or Indian spices, Trader Joe’s has everything you need to create authentic and flavorful dishes.

Unique and Innovative Offerings

One of the reasons why Trader Joe’s is so beloved is its constant introduction of unique and innovative products. The store takes pride in being a trendsetter in the grocery industry, and customers eagerly anticipate the arrival of new items. From seasonal treats to unexpected flavor combinations, Trader Joe’s never fails to surprise and delight its customers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What makes Trader Joe’s different from other grocery stores?

Trader Joe’s stands out from other grocery stores due to its unique selection of products, unbeatable prices, and friendly atmosphere. The store offers an exciting array of gourmet and specialty items, all at affordable prices,making it a destination for food enthusiasts. Additionally, Trader Joe’s prides itself on creating a neighborhood vibe with its welcoming staff and sense of community.

2. Does Trader Joe’s offer organic and healthy options?

Yes, Trader Joe’s is known for its commitment to offering a wide range of organic and healthy options. The store carries a variety of organic produce, as well as organic dairy products, meats, and pantry staples. In addition, Trader Joe’s has a selection of gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian products to cater to different dietary preferences and needs.

3. Are Trader Joe’s products affordable compared to other grocery stores?

Yes, Trader Joe’s is renowned for its affordability. While providing high-quality products, Trader Joe’s manages to keep its prices competitive. This combination of quality and value makes it an attractive choice for shoppers looking to get the most out of their budget.

4. Can I find international ingredients and spices at Trader Joe’s?

Absolutely! Trader Joe’s takes pride in offering a diverse range of international ingredients and spices. Whether you’re looking for exotic spices for a specific recipe or unique international snacks, Trader Joe’s has a selection that will satisfy your culinary cravings.

5. Are there any Trader Joe’s branded products?

Yes, Trader Joe’s has its own line of branded products. These Trader Joe’s branded items are carefully curated and developed to meet the company’s high standards for quality and taste. From snacks and pantry staples to frozen meals and beverages, you’ll find a variety of Trader Joe’s branded products throughout the store.

6. Does Trader Joe’s have a return policy?

Yes, Trader Joe’s has a customer-friendly return policy. If you’re not satisfied with a product you’ve purchased, you can return it to the store with a receipt for a full refund. Trader Joe’s aims to ensure customer satisfaction and stands behind the quality of their products.

Conclusion: A Shopping Experience Like No Other

Trader Joe’s offers a shopping experience that is truly unique. With its diverse and high-quality product selection, unbeatable prices, and friendly atmosphere, it has become a favorite destination for food enthusiasts and budget-conscious shoppers alike. Whether you’re searching for everyday essentials, international ingredients, or innovative snacks, Trader Joe’s has something to offer. So, the next time you’re in search of a grocery store adventure, don’t miss out on the vibrant and exciting world of Trader Joe’s.

Continue Reading

News

Rebbe’s Dollar distribution

Published

on

Rebbe's Dollar distribution

Uncover the extraordinary story of the Rebbe’s Dollar distribution, a powerful tradition that has transformed lives and inspired acts of kindness across the globe.

The Rebbe’s one-dollar bill, a symbol of charity and compassion, continues to embody the spiritual legacy of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, inspiring countless individuals to embrace a life of giving and kindness.

Every Sunday, people from all walks of life – Jews and non-Jews alike – would line up outside the Rebbe’s residence at 770 Eastern Parkway in Brooklyn, New York, eager to receive a dollar bill and a blessing from the Rebbe.

It was a testament to the universal nature of the Rebbe’s message of love, kindness, and the power of good deeds.

The Rebbe would hand out dollar bills to each individual, instructing them to donate the money to a charity of their choice. Through this small act of giving, the Rebbe instilled the value of charity and the potential of a single dollar to create positive change.

Continue Reading

News

Sustainable Diamonds – What You Need to Know About Lab-Grown Diamonds in NZ

Published

on

Sustainable Diamonds - What You Need to Know About Lab-Grown Diamonds in NZ

The use of lab grown diamonds NZ in jewellery has been growing rapidly over the last few years. This is because they are eco-friendly, and they cost less than mined diamonds. However, it is essential to understand the differences between a lab-grown and a mined diamond before making a purchase decision.

A Lab-Grown Diamond is a synthetic diamond created by humans in a lab instead of being mined from the ground. They are similar to natural diamonds in almost every way, except that they do not cloud or lose their luster over time.

There are several processes that can be used to grow a diamond in a lab, but the most common ones are High Pressure-High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). These methods are incredibly complex, but they have the same end goal: to replicate the conditions that naturally occur when a diamond grows on the earth’s surface.

Unlike mined diamonds, formed after millions of years of exposure to extreme heat and temperatures within the earth’s crust, lab-grown diamonds are created by scientists in a controlled environment. This allows them to mimic the same physical and chemical properties of natural diamonds, while also being significantly cheaper and environmentally friendly.

How They’re Made

When a diamond seed is placed inside of a sealed chamber, it is pressurized and heated until the carbon particles break down and crystallize into a fully grown diamond. This process is called growing a diamond in a lab, and many companies have done it since the 1960s.

In addition to being more sustainable, lab-grown diamonds are more ethical than mined diamonds because they don’t heavily impact the environment. For example, a study by Frost & Sullivan found that for each carat of diamonds mined using traditional methods, nearly 100 square feet of land is disturbed and more than 5,798 pounds of mineral waste are created.

Another great thing about lab-grown diamonds is that they don’t consume as much water in the making process. This is because the processes involved in creating a mined diamond require significant amounts of water, and they also create a lot of pollution.

This can lead to many issues, including depleted water supplies and environmental calamities. In addition, the soil can be destroyed, and in turn, the land is rendered unusable once mining operations have ceased.

It is also worth noting that lab-grown diamonds don’t contribute to global warming like mined diamonds, as their carbon is sourced from CO2 emissions. This is a very good thing for the planet, and it is one of the major reasons why people are switching to lab-grown diamonds instead of mined diamonds.

If you want to buy a piece of jewellery with a lab-grown diamond, you’ll need to do some research and make sure that you are getting a good deal on the product. You can do this by checking out prices at different retailers and comparing the costs. You can then choose which option is best for you and your budget.

Continue Reading

Trending