December 2012 / January 2013
Features
Special Section: Hollywood Mavericks
Forget all those hand-wringing headlines bemoaning plummeting ticket sales and tired industry groupthink: Hollywood is in the midst of a full-fledged renaissance. It's being spurred by forward-thinking A-listers like Leonardo DiCaprio, who stars in this month's Django Unchained, not to mention a fresh class of actor-auteurs, visionary showrunners, creative production collectives, and more. These innovators bring bold ideas—about everything from upstart marketing models to capturing Chinese audiences to creating the programming of the future—that are transforming what you watch and how you watch it. Here's a definitive guide to the people and ideas turning the entertainment industry upside down.
Gift Guide: The Right Stuff
Struggling to figure out what to give this holiday season? You've come to the right place. From a sweet, streamlined pair of skis to a one-of-a-kind clock to must-have apparel and accessories, we've got 70 of the most coveted gifts for men. (And there's nothing wrong with nabbing something special for yourself!)
Fashion
Reboot
Snow and slush may have arrived, but you can fight back without sacrificing style—just slip into a pair of these good-looking, highly functional lace-ups.
On the Waterfront
Who says you can't relax at the beach during the off-season? Just bring a different wardrobe: big, luxurious coats, chunky nautical-striped sweaters, sturdy jeans and boots, and cozy knit accessories.
Last Call
Michael Shannon
The consummate character actor adds to his long résumé of psychos and weirdos by playing a contract killer in The Iceman, then a supervillain in next summer's Superman remake, Man of Steel. But don't typecast him: He's just waiting for a chance at a rom-com.
Know & Tell
The Obsession
The greatest thing since sliced bread is . . . bread. One of the world's oldest foods gets a gourmet makeover.
Travel
These six designer destination spas are the ultimate in jet-setting indulgence. Plus: four blissed-out treatments, including a muscle-relaxing beer bath and a moonlight massage.
Drinks
You don't have to drink scotch neat: Leading bartenders are now using the spirit (even single-malts) to mix up an array of delicious cocktails. Plus: a scotch glossary, and why Japanese whisky is all the rage.
Food
Fresh bread isn't just for pre-appetizer baskets anymore. Instead, it's getting special attention from a new breed of inventive bakers and four-star chefs. This insider's guide leaves no crumb unturned.
Tech
There are many wireless speakers, but only this one streams music so crisply, effortlessly, and stylishly. Plus: new apps for listening to any radio station, anywhere, anytime.
Design
More than half a century after its introduction, the iconic Eames Lounge remains one of the most luxurious pieces of furniture ever created. Plus: Give your home a face-lift with one of these four contemporary chairs that pay homage to the legendary recliner.
Auto
There's more to the station wagon than wood paneling, as these sleek rides prove. Plus: the world's fastest Ferrari.
Culture
2012-13: The Year In Review. The Year In Preview
We take stock of the projects, people, and events that drove the cultural conversation in 2012, from the rise of EDM to the Fifty Shades of Grey phenomenon to the return of everyone's favorite shirtless Texan. And, because it's always fun to predict the future, we've forecasted what the equivalent trends are going to be for the year to come. (Hint: The shirtless Texan ain't going away.)
Wiseguy
Music mogul Tommy Mottola reflects on life with ex-wife Mariah Carey, going the extra mile for Hall & Oates, and late-night phone calls from the King of Pop.
Travel
Whether you're headed for the slopes or the surf for the holidays, here's all you need to pack. Plus: travel apps to know now.
Human Error
The entrepreneurs of Silicon Valley are our greatest modern-day captains of industry. So why won't they dress like it?
Trend
Velvet is enjoying a fashionable revival—and it's not just for formal occasions anymore.
Advice
To mark her return to her eponymous brand, the iconic German designer Jil Sander shares her philosophy on men's style. Plus: Sander's comeback collection.
Grooming
The latest innovation in skin care? Natural oils derived from plant and seed extracts. Plus: winterproofing your skin.
Wish List
These style insiders share their expert gift-giving secrets.
News & Notes
All the trends, stats, and tips to make you fit.
Behavior
Little vices like diet soda may seem harmless, but they can wreak havoc on your body. Here's how to clean up your act.
Trend
Modern fitness instructors aren't just body shapers; they're rock-star gym gurus who share their wisdom on fashion, travel, and dating.
Health
The bathroom is the one place every man wants to be a regular guy. Get things moving—it's a key to your well-being.
