Russian Dolls: Picked Up In Australia!

I noticed that both Michael Levitis and Eddie Zee were notifying their adoring public that Russian Dolls was being picked up by Nippon TV in Japan.  My first thoughts…how is that possible.  Japan?  Of all the places on earth, that is the last place I would have guessed would be interested in Russian Dolls.  

I immediately thought, the Japanese revere their elderly parents.  How in the world is the way Marina treats Eva going to go over in Japan?  They would be horrified to say the least.  The more I thought about it the more preposterous it seemed to be.  So I clicked on the article that Michael posted to see it with my own eyes.  I was right!  They are not being picked up by Japan at all.  This man, with a law degree who is part owner of a large restaurant, has not read the article at all and jumped to conclusions.  The article mentions several countries and the different shows they are picking up.  Japan is picking up some shows, but NOT Russian Dolls.

Relevant part of article: Australia’s Nine Network picked up Picker Sisters; Lifestyle and Lifestyle You acquired Glamour Belles, Dance Moms and Russian Dolls; and Sci-Fi/TV1 General Entertainment took The Captains of the Final Frontier.

I’ll tell you who is picking up Russian Dolls…Australia.  Yes, Lifetime and Lifetime YOU in Australia is picking up the show.  Don’t ask me why, but it makes more sense, doesn’t it?  I will post the links to two articles and you can see for yourself.  Maybe I read it wrong, but I don’t think so.  I hope Michael reads the fine print in his contracts better than he read this article.

So no, Russian Dolls will not be going to Japan any time soon.  Let’s see how well received they are in Australia.  I am very curious!


Links to articles: Article one  and  Article two

Russian Dolls: Marina Never Looked Better

The world pretty much knows that I am not a Marina "fan" and my guilty pleasure has been to take pot shots at her whenever the opportunity has presented itself...and she has given me plenty of opportunities.  But today, as I look at Michael's facebook page and the picture he posted of Marina, I have to say she has never looked better.  Maybe all those tweets about going to the gym and doing zumba classes for her brother's wedding paid off?  She does look like she lost some weight.  She says this is her fall "look."  I think it agrees with her.  The darker colors are very complimentary as is her new hair color.  Now all kidding aside, and try to be objective, don't you think this is a new and improved look for Marina?   

Russian Dolls: Marina's Animal Print Dress

First of all a big thank you to Michael Levitis, the adoring husband of Marina.  He saw the blog where I was asking about her animal print dresses and he directed me to his facebook page where he has proudly posted his lovely wife, wearing one of her new acquisitions.  This appears to be a vertical, zebra stripe print.  I am no fasionista by any means, however I have always heard that curvy women should not wear stripes as it makes them appears larger in areas they do not need accentuated.  Marina has been tweeting that she has been going to the gym and attending zumba classes to lose weight for her brother's wedding.  I think she still has a ways to go and if I were her I would go with horizontal stripes next time.

I took a moment to see if my memory on stripes was accurate and here is the result:

As you can see, the same woman, wearing two different dresses, appears more svelt in the horizontally striped dress on the top of the screen and fuller figured on the bottom on the screen wearing vertical stripes.  However, the important thing is not what I think of Marina's new dress, but what Michael thinks.  Michael seems very happy with Marina's choice, so who am I to make suggestions?

Picture credit: Michael Levitis Facebook and dailymail.co.uk and Patrick McMullen

Russian Dolls: Blog Quoted in Sheepshead Bites!

Imagine my surprise this morning to see myself quoted on this very popular website, "Sheepshead Bites?"  Apparently, they really enjoyed my blog about Marina's press release that was full of "hilarious snark."  I was going to blog about their article indicating that Russian Dolls may not be cancelled after all.  There is some "maneuvering" going on behind the scenes, trying to air it at different times with sister stations.  However, everyone in the cast seems to be "acting" (and I use the term loosely) as though there will be NO season two.  They are all tweeting and updating their facebooks with posts to the contrary.  They are moving on with other projects.  And I happen to think that is a good idea.  They shouldn't hold their breath for a season two.  Eddie is applying to Real World.  He wants to make the most of his 15 minutes of "lame."  Svetlana is making Russian Doll necklaces, Renata has her Passionista Movement, Anna has her modeling school/career, Anastasia can spend the next ten years in college figuring oout what to major in, Michael can try to focus on his law office and get a backbone so he can stand up to his wife, and as for Marina...let her eat cake! 

And a side note for Lifetime: You aired this show on a "women's network" and yet you didn't see a problem with the Eddie and Albert confessionals that always offended women?  How was that going to endear the show to your audience?  I found those "sidebars" very distasteful and unnecessary, but then again, as I say, what do I know?  I never produced a television show.

Read the whole article in Sheephead Bites @ http://www.sheepsheadbites.com/2011/10/russian-dolls-booted-from-lifetime-network-down-but-not-out/

Picture credit: Sheepshead Bites  

Russian Dolls: Eddie's Pet Peeves

What is the latest on Eddie?  Does anyone care?  Well if you do, apparently he has applied for a role on Real World.  Real World is casting, so he says, and they are better than Lifetime.  However there appears to be a slight problem.  According to his contract with Lifetime, he cannot be cast on any other reality show for six months.  I don't think Real World will want to wait six months for Eddie.

Eddie wants to remain in the entertainment industry, and seems determined.  But, maybe he has had his chance and this is the end of the line for him?  He always has his poetry, but if I were him I would not pin my hopes on poetry or television.  Maybe he should go back to school or find a real job.

Good Luck Eddie!

Russian Dolls: Anna, Diana & Anastasia In Miami



Looks like our Russian Dolls are enjoying themselves in Miami at the Beach!  Apparently they planned a getaway together and it looks like Anna made up with Anastasia for not showing up at the fashion show!  However, there may be some kind of problem because two hours ago Diana tweeted this picture, which looks like Anna, fighting off a nose bleed or oher injury.  I hope it doesn't put a cramp in their plans.



There was no explanation provided as yet for the picture above.  And lets have another look at Diana, who has proven to be the most interesting to our readers.  Her blogs are still getting the most hits which means more readers want to know about her. 



Now if I could give Diana an excellent tip or friendly advice it is this: Diana, please make blog entries as often as possible, preferrably once a day, so people will find something new to read.  Second, update your website for the same reasons or it will have been a total waste of time and money.  You are in the public eye now and now is the time to strike while the iron is hot!



Russian Dolls: Ep 5 Recap “Calendar Girls”

Anastasia flipping out at salon

Diana and Anastasia entered a “Calendar Girls” beauty contest and they make it into the next round. The competition starts off with 100 girls and it’s narrowed down to 12, 1 girl for each month. Already I have to ask myself why isn’t Anna participating? Anna is strikingly beautiful and she has modeling experience. Maybe the answer will be revealed in the episode? If they win they will be in the calendars all over Brighton Beach. Excuse me, but the world is a lot bigger than Brighton Beach. Diana says, some girls have even met their husbands by being in this calendar. Well now that’s what I call “success” (sarcasm).

They visit with Anna’s grandmother and talk to her in Russian. Anna tells them she was very beautiful when she was younger and used to call herself “diamond” because she was like a rare diamond. Anna tells us why she isn’t doing the “calendar thing,” she is way too busy with her modeling school. She does have a lot of experience under her belt and she will use it to help her girls win. They do a practice photo shoot so Anna can tell them how to pose.

Over at Renata’s house, she is trying on dresses for Boris because she is hosting the Calendar Girl Beauty Contest. He doesn’t like the first dress because he thinks it has to be more glamorous. He loves the next dress, BUT he is afraid she will overshadow the participants. He wants her to find something more glamorous, again. He likes the third dress. As she twirls around for him, he spots a varicose vein on her leg and points it out. Renata admits it’s not the most beautiful thing about her, but it’s never been a problem. But if Boris notices it, she feels it may be getting worse. And he tells her they have to do something about it. I am very disappointed that he takes every opportunity to make her feel self conscious one way or another. His criticism may be well intended, but it is hurtful. He says she has a problem from the knees down. He advises her to go see a doctor.

Albert says Russian women “don’t take crap from anyone.” Then he says they need someone to control them and slap them back into place. I imagine he is joking about this and can’t be serious.

The girls get ready for the photo shoot. Anastasia says she is not intimidated by other girls. Next she starts fussing with the hairdresser doing her hair. After all she paid $800 for her extensions (pretty extravagant if you ask me) and she thinks the hair dresser was frying her hair making thin, dull, ugly curls. The hair dresser says she understands what she wants and Anastasia tells her she doesn’t think she knows how to curl hair. Diana is getting her hair done also, but Anastasia screams for her to come over to her station. She whines to Diana that they don’t know how to do hair while Anna is standing nearby rolling her eyes and shaking her head. Anna says when she heard Anastasia pitch a fit she wanted to take the curling iron from the stylist, curl her hair herself and then beat her with it. Anastasia keeps crying and Diana promises her she will be happy in the end. The salon owner is upset because she is being so disrespectful. The salon is actually sponsoring the Calendar Girls Contest. And everyone in Brighton Beach talk, so this episode is going to get around. If it doesn’t by word of mouth, it will by the airing of the show! Anastasia keeps saying her hair will be hideous. Diana has to calm down a hysterical Anastasia or she is going to blow the competition. Anastasia refuses to compete and is crying. Diana is insisting she calm down.

Anastasia says that no one knew what they were doing with her hair, BUT finally it came out nice. Anna tries to tell her that she was wrong to treat the hair dressers that way, but Anastasia insists if she hadn’t old them they would have messed up her hair. Ana tells her you don’t behave that way and lash out. This is one of Anna’s favorite salons and “princess” decides to flip out because her hair didn’t seem to come out exactly how she thought she wanted it. Anna says, “If Anastasia keeps acting like a four year old, this photo shoot is going to be a total disaster.”

Renata goes to the doctor. The doctor says he can fix it with an injection, it’s pure cosmetics, no surgery. But, the insurance will not cover it. It will cost $1,000. She has to think about it and talk to Boris. Come on now. She can make this decision herself. It’s obvious they have $1,000 for this procedure and Boris is the one who aims for perfection! Renata goes home to talk to Boris. He seems surprised to learn she went to the doctor. She tells him she is not doing the work because she looks ok, more than ok, she looks adorable. She says it’s a cosmetic procedure and insurance will not cover it. He wants to know how much it will cost. She says $1,000 and he answers “you’re worried about $1,000?” She says yes and he gets up and gets her $1,000 cash and hands it to her. He tells her use the money to fix her problem, she says it’s not a problem. He compares her to a diamond with an imperfection that kills it. It’s like a brand new car with a scratch on the bumper. But, Renata says, if she fixes this there will be other imperfections and they can’t fix they all. Finally, seeing he can’t win, Boris takes back his money and says she looks more sexy today than the day they met and all is forgiven.

The girls go to a studio for the photo shoot. They get their makeup done. They have 16 contestants and only 12 openings. During the photo shoot, Diana feels like a million dollars. The photo shoot actually looks very good and professional.

Anna tells Eddie all about Anastasia’s behavior and it sounds like they agree that she is a spoiled brat who has to have everything her way. And then take it a step further and say she is creating a bad reputation for herself which will stick with her. Even Eddie gets it.

The salon asked Marina, Sveta and Renata to judge the girls. Oh brother! Diana says she doesn’t feel well, I think it’s about adding drama and fails. Diana and Anstasia take a shot of vodka before doing the runway. Most of the contestants have very weird hairstyles. The names of the winners are called. Diana gets picked right away. How fair is it to have three cast members judge the contest? Of course they are going to be partial to Diana and Anastasia. There is a conflict of interest here. And of course to create more drama, there is one rose left and Anastasia’s name has not yet been called. And to my surprise, Anastasia did not get chosen! Wow! Anastasia says she is angry inside and can’t get over not being picked. All her friends are disappointed and show it. Diana was beyond shocked and says it was a bitter sweet moment. Renata tells them why she wasn’t picked. It wasn’t because she wasn’t beautiful enough it was all about the incident in the hair salon. Anastasia thinks it’s a stupid reason. She is filled with rage. Anastasia feels it’s because of Brighton Beach gossip that she didn’t win. She feels like a victim. She cries and complains to her boyfriend who just wants to get her home and ply her with wine so….she says he is the only one who makes her happy.

As usual, Anastasia lives up to her reputation. Once again she thinks the world owes her everything. If she doesn’t treat her own mother with love and respect, why would she treat anyone else with respect. She is 25 years old and already at several disadvantages. She hasn’t completed college and she has issues getting along with anyone. She needs to learn that to get respect you have to give respect and in life there will be disappointments. She needs to learn how to handle disappointment, because by her parents giving her everything, she has never learned how.

I want to know who paid for the $800 hair extensions and why. Good luck Anastasia, because at 25 you are socially behind most everyone your age.

Picture credit: Lifetime

Russian Dolls: Materialistic Beyond Words!

Here we go again!  I barely wake up and check my emails and then see what's new on Russian Dolls to blog about.  It's been a long weekend with not much happening.  Somehow I know that if I check Marina's twitter she will have tweeted something to get a rise out of me, and she has.  So I copied it here for everyone else to see before I express my two cents.

I have never seen anyone as materialistic as Marina Levitis.  This trait is very unappealing to say the least.  She tweets that she loves Kim k's engagement ring and then leaps to the idea that hers needs "upgrading" because soon she will be married 15 years.  I don't know about you, but there seems to be something lacking here.  I think most women have some sentimentality attached to the ring they were given by their husbands in contemplation of marriage.  So what if the stone is smaller than what you can afford today, it was the best he could do at the time.  It's the ring that you received when you accepted his proposal. It's supposed to be special and have some emotional attachment to it.  But, not for Marina.  It's always all about bigger and better and outdoing someone else.  It's sickening.

It's not like she doesn't have tons of jewelry already.  She probably has more than she can wear.  It's all about amassing gems and bragging about what you have and flaunting it as much as possible.  It's not about the memory of when you got the jewelry or the moment it represents in your life for her.  Every occasion is another excuse to buy more jewelry. 

When I look at my jewelry, it's like looking at a photo album.  Every piece, except the ones I purchased for myself, represents an occasion and a special person in my life.  I look at my engagement ring and remember the day my husband proposed.  I look at my wedding band and remember our vows.  I look at the diamond tennis bracelet and know it was for our 20th anniversary.  I have a set of birthstone earrings and pendant that my husband gave me on my 40th birthday.  I would never dream of "upgrading" any of my memories for new and improved items.  That, to me is crass and tasteless.  And in the end, that is exactly the impression and message that Marina sends out.

Russian Dolls: Renata Krumer's Facebook Page

I just discovered Renata's Facebook Page.  As you would expect, her page suits her personality.  She has inspirational quotes of hers there, which gives us something to think about.  She includes things that are happening in the show and with the cast.  Video clips, interviews, pictures. 

Renata does not fit the Russian stereotype that the community was complaining about.  I have watched four episodes and it's impossible to say anything bad about her.  She has a sweet personality.  She is loving towards her husband and friends, she has compassion, and she listens when people talk.  She is always dressed in good taste and exemplifies the word class.  It is obvious that she is not just the founder and CEO of Outstanding You, she also lives what she teaches.  Unfortunately, none of her cast mates have signed up for lessons. 



Bravo Renata!  If Brighton Beach was an oyster, you would be the pearl!

Picture Credit: Renata's Facebook Page

Renata's Facebook Page

Russian Dolls: Eva's Belly Dance Lesson!

As promised, Eva Levitis delivers belly dancing lesson to Chance TV in the clip below.  Once Eva starts dancing she is so into it that it seems as though she has forgotten Chance is even there.  Thank God Marina was no where in sight!  Finally, Eva has a few moments to enjoy herself without her obnoxious daughter in-law criticizing her the entire time!  What do you think?  Does Eva have sexy moves or what?

Russian Dolls: Recap Episode 4 “Ruski Business”

The episode opens with Sveta telling her story of how she and her family came to the United States. She says they came right after Chernobyl happened. She feels she has a presence when she walks into a room and she makes a statement. She knows what she likes and isn’t full of herself, but she admits that she can be snobby. She admits to being a “material girl.” Her husband’s name is Sasha, and it appears that Sveta wears the pants in the family, as she berates her husband for not having a plan. He was a jeweler in Kiev for 10 years, so when they arrived here they decided to open a jewelry store.

Sveta says they have been trying to come up with ways to bring new business to the store so she decided to talk to Marina about doing a jewelry show at Rasputin. They meet to discuss it the jewelry “expo.” Sveta thinks the show will be mutually beneficial for their store and Rasputin as well. Marina launches into her spiel about Rasputin being around for 20 years and it being the most famous Russian restaurant in the world (I think she forgot a few, like the Russian Tea Room?).

At first, Marina says she was excited about the show, and she suggests a good time for it would be 5 to 7 PM, before the dinner crowd comes in. Sveta asks about Thursday, and Michael says they will have to open the restaurant especially for her party and it will cost a little extra. Sveta says when you do a show like this you are putting your name and reputation out there for people to see, so you want everything to be perfect. Michael says they will send out emails to their VIP client list, probably 10,000 names will be invited to the show. Sveta wants to know how many people will come out for the show out of 10,000 emails. Michael tells her to assume 50. She looks disgusted. Then Michael adds, the show will cost her $2,000. Sveta was shocked. She is haggling about the price. Michael says they are doing this as a complete favor to her. They have to cover their costs to pay employees, food and drinks. To try to appease her, Marina suggests that maybe they can work out a trade and Sveta can give her a piece of jewelry, that costs her $2,000 wholesale, in exchange for the show. Sveta says it’s a possibility, Russians like to barter.

Over to Anastasia’s home, she is talking to Eddie. They are in deep discussion about different ways to drink alcohol, again. Her ex boyfriend Vlad calls. They went out for four years and broke up 10 months ago. He has been calling and texting, trying to get back into her life. Eddie appears concerned for Anastasia, he says when he thinks of them together all he sees is Anastasia crying on his shoulder. He hurt her a couple of times. Vlad invites her out to lunch for the next day. She agrees to go at 3, and Eddie asks if she is getting back with him. She says she is terrified to get back with him, it’s just lunch. Eddie reveals that he and Anastasia made a pack that if they are both still single in 5 years, when they are 30, they are going to get married. Eddie thinks she deserves better than Vlad, he’s a “douche-bag!”

Back to Sveta, who says she had a bad feeling about the whole deal regarding her show. She decides to meet with Marian and discuss the details. Marina says they have about 25 people who responded yes to the show. Her first inclination was to cancel the show. The whole point of the show is to attract customers from Rasputin. However, Michael wants her to pay for a set number of people which they may not get. If there are not 50 people at minimum, she feels she is over paying. Sveta says, “Just because someone presents themselves as rich and famous, it doesn’t mean they have more class than anyone else.’ ZING! Marina is getting annoyed because they agreed on the price and now Sveta has all these concerns. Sveta wants to make sure she is getting something out of the show. Marina says even if she gets one customer and sells a nice piece, the show will have been a success. Marina says the show hasn’t even started and Sveta is going into it with an evil attitude. Marina’s formula: “they gonna come, they gonna see, they gonna like, they gonna buy” simple.

Anastasia meets Vlad and she is scared because the last 10 months have been hard on her. They discuss why they broke up, she asks if maybe he wasn’t ready to be in a serious relationship. He says he didn’t know what he was doing at 23. He feels bad because they were fighting and broke up over no real reason. Anastasia says being with him felt natural and so right. When he takes her hand, she knew this wasn’t just a talk, and then they get cozy.

Over at Marina’s house she is getting ready for the jewelry show and even has a makeup artist doing her face, like she is a star. Tell me, who has a makeup artist in their home? Michael walks in and asks how her meeting with Sveta went yesterday, like we are supposed to believe Marina could keep her mouth shut for 24 hours about how annoyed she was with Sveta. Nevertheless, we will play along, as she tells him it was very stressful (for the first time @@). She tells Michael they were going to discuss the details when Sveta just started attacking her and accusing her of overcharging. Michael says so why bother doing it, cancel it. Marina says no they can’t cancel, people are coming. Sveta then tells her husband how Marina was talking to her at the meeting and waving her hands. Marina says Sveta is delusional, she is trying to be a pig and trying to get every penny out of her!” She doesn’t want to understand that this is how much it takes to cover their costs. Sveta says Marina thinks she is perfect, a fashion whore, and think she has the best clothes and jewelry in the world. Marina swears after the show they are done forever.

Back to Anastasia and Eddie at her home. She tells him she is having the best time with Vlad. They are together every day. Eddie thinks she is nuts. She says no, because they are taking it slow and it feels good. She knows it is going to lead to them getting back together. Eddie is not happy and says he doesn’t trust this guy and doesn’t know what Anastasia is thinking. She insists Vlad has changed. Eddie says if he hurts her again he is going to kill him.

Over at Rasputin the jewelry show is about to start. Both Sveta and Marina have bad attitudes that can only end up with them clashing. Sveta is expecting to see at least 50 VIPs, great service, great food and an open bar. If they don’t deliver it will be a complete waste of time and money for Sveta. Marina just wants to get through the two hours and move on. The show starts and there seems to be quite a few people there. Marina is mingling with the customers, but Sveta is standing there with her arms crossed looking very unapproachable. Sveta says, she is very disappointed because she doesn’t feel she will even make enough sales to cover the cost of the show. Marina is promoting the jewelry store and the merchandise and says the husband is a sweetheart. Then Marina adds if Sveta gets involved there are no deals…what? How can this help sales? Now, Sveta is completely disgusted with the “open bar” and says, it has the cheapest vodka and some red stuff. No champagne, no wine, nothing! And the food, she wasn’t happy with that either. She feels they presented the show in the worst possible way and it was a total waste of time and money. Michael and Marina are the ultimate hustlers.

The show is over and it’s time to settle up. Marina is trying to pick out a piece of jewelry to pay for the cost of the show. Sveta feels that Marina would not be happy with anything worth $2,000, and Marina feels Sveta is dishonest and a cheater. Sveta is yelling $2,000 for pigs in a blanket and you call that an open bar? Michael says they were just giving them the space. Sveta was totally disappointed in the services provided. The arguing goes on between Sveta, Marina and Michael, Sasha tries to step in. Michael says “if you want to stiff us, stiff us.” Marina says she doesn’t want anything from her at this point. She doesn’t want to be abused by this b!tch. Marina says they have no class, that’s it! If she wants to look like a thief in this community, go ahead.

Back to Anastasia’s where she invites Vlad over for some wine and a hot tub session. They are very lovey dovey and she sees it as a new chapter. She wants more communication from him, he says one step at a time. While they are kissing in the hot tub, Eddie calls to invite her out, his call goes unanswered. Then Vlad picks up Anastasia in his arms and carries her into the bedroom. Shuts the door.

My turn…well the clash between Sveta and Marina was bound to happen and of course that is exactly the kind of drama the show wants. I think it was close to a tie. I don’t know Sveta as well as Marina, but from what I saw of the show I think Sveta had some excellent points. Marina would not serve VIPs cheap vodka or pigs in a blanket and the open bar looked bad even to me, a nondrinker. However, Sveta did agreed on the price ahead of time and if she felt she was getting ripped off she should have cancelled the event rather than create bad blood. The truth of the matter is that I think Lifetime actually paid for the jewelry show and it was their idea. They got a lot of video out of it and drama. So I do not think Marina or Sveta were out any money, though they may not really like each other.

Anastasia can’t make up her mind about anything. The best predictor of future behavior is past behavior. As much as I hate to agree with Eddie, and I do, he is right on the money about not trusting this guy, Vlad. Anastasia says they are taking things slowly, but obviously not slow enough. She should be focused on school and getting her degree. She sure doesn’t need another distraction from doing that. Good luck Anastasia.

Picture credit: Lifetime

Russian Dolls: Diana Most Popular Doll!

I was starting to get depressed over how few hits our blog was getting today when all of a sudden there was a tremendous spike!  We checked our statistics to see why.  The past two days we were under 200 hits for the entire day, but today we have, so far, over 1300 hits.  The reason?  Diana Kosov.  Today, her blog moved into our #1 spot for most popular blog and it has gotten 916 hits today alone!  People are interested in Diana and are googling her to know more about her. 

I think this development is fascinating.  She was hardly on the last episode at all and the preview clip for this week doesn't seem to indicate she has a large role.  Diana has sparked some interest in the public and her blog has an all time stat of 1,042 hits vs 607 hits for Marina's NBC interview. 

Congratulations Diana!  If this trend keeps up perhaps it will lead to bigger and better things in your future.  For right now, at least, you are the #1 Russian Doll!

Picture credit: Associated Press



Russian Dolls: Cindy Adams + Two Dolls



Equals an interesting conversation! Too bad one of the “dolls” is Marina. In an interview over tea, Cindy talks with Renata and Marina from Russian Dolls. Renata, always very ladylike, is in sharp contrast to the ever obnoxious and complaining Marina. Renata explains how the community of Brighton Beach became populated with Russian immigrants, much like many of the neighborhoods in NYC. New York City is known for its ethnic communities where immigrants stick together and try to keep their customs and traditions from their native countries alive.

Marina tries to justify her own obnoxiousness by saying it’s a trait of all Russian women who were being treated like second class citizens in Russia and are now asserting themselves. However, Renata, who is also from Russia never displays this trait, instead she manages to remain pleasant and conduct herself professionally and with class. Marina takes credit for supplying the show with all its cast members, except one, who she hates. Now that’s a big surprise! She claims her husband talked her into doing the show because it would be good for business (INSERT EYE ROLL!) I do not believe that for one second. In the end of the interview, Marina seizes one last opportunity to “zing” Sveta. Frankly, I cannot wait for the episode to air, so I can see who behaved the worst. Shall we take bets?

Cindy notes that when Marina gets off her chair she leaves gold dust behind…read the article to see where she thinks it came from!


Picture credit: www.boston.com
Article: NY Post Cindy Adams



Russian Dolls: Community Still Outraged By Stereotyping



The Brighton Beach community is more upset than ever about the way Russians are being portrayed on the series so far.  From the ethnic slur of the title Russian Dolls to the behaviors being protrayed by all the cast members, they feel they are being victimized.  A Daily News article gives several examples from the show that they feel justifies their outrage.

The community says it did not want the show banned ot boycotted, but simply to give an accurate representation of its residents.  Instead, they cite specific stereotypical behaviors, which is exactly what they were afraid would be communicated to viewers.  For example, the show focuses on the materialistic values, the portrayal of women as second class citizens, and derogatory racial remarks.  As examples they cite Marina's request for $26,000 for bling for the grandma pageant; Diana's search for a man with money only to dump Paul because he is Spanish; and Anastasia, who drinks, tans,  is conecerned about hair extensions and makeup, and is advised to pay for a college degree because Russians are "schemers."

Instead of teaching viewers about Russian culture, the show propagates the very things that lead people to believe the stereotypes that have been fighting to overcome.  Read the entire article at the link below.

Picture credit: NY Daily News

Article: More Outrage!

Russian Dolls: Renata Krumer Interview

Renata was recently interviewed by Michelle Rivera of Mommy To Hollywood, and she had a lot to say. Renata is a very busy business woman. In addition to being on Russian Dolls, Renata has her own, popular radio show and is also the founder and CEO of Outstanding You. Some of the highlights of the interview will follow and at the end you will find the link to the entire article.

Renata’s radio show discusses woman’s issues. Renata is all about helping women with their problems and achieving their full potential. Her company, Outstanding You, also works in that capacity, as well as, perform services of organizing and hosting events.

Renata accepted the role in the new series because it gives her an opportunity to have new experiences and represent her culture. Her son was concerned for the way she, herself, may be portrayed on the show. However, she herself, was not concerned. The cameras are capturing who is really is and allowing her to reach a larger audience.

Picture and Interview: http://mommyhoodtohollywood.com/wp/?p=1310



Russian Dolls: Eva Levitis On X Factor!

The beautiful Eva Levitis, star of Russian Dolls, has auditioned for X Factor.  A very bold move for Eva, especially since she decided to take on a hit of Lady Gaga's, "Bad Romance."   It's a brief clip, but it appears that the judges were not all that impressed.  Simon Cowell is heard to say, "That was like running over 25 cats on the Freeway!"  Well you can't please everyone and I do not always agree with Simon!

Below is her commercial and she says she was chosen out of 20,000 people who auditioned for the show to appear in it.  The show will air September 21 and 22 and we may get to see her entire performance then!  Not only is she the "Snooki" of Russian Dolls, she is turning into the Lady Gaga of Pop Music!

Eva we love your spirit and the way you pursue your dreams with passion!  I hope your family and friends (minus Marina) support you 100%!  You go girl!

Picture credit: Eva's Facebook

Video Credit: X Factor

Russian Dolls: Preview Episode 4 "Ruski Business"

Well, in the little clip we have here, it seems that Marina and Svetlana are going to have a little Russian War! It’s just 30 seconds long, but long enough to see that Marina’s attitude has found itself a new target, her friend Sveta. It looks like Sveta wants to have a jewelry show at Rasputin and they are charging her two thousand dollars for food and the use of the restaurant. Apparently, Sveta doesn’t think she is getting her money’s worth and marina is not acting very professionally about it. Now, correct me if I am wrong, but I always heard the expression “the customer is always right.” In this show it seems like “Marina is always right!”

Look, it would not have killed the restaurant to do a great job on the food for this event. First of all many guests coming to the jewelry show may become customers and also spread the word about the restaurant, and they would get new business. Second, if they go a little over budget or don’t make as much profit, they can deduct it as a business expense right? Michael knows all about fudging numbers, that’s what got him in hot water with the law. Third, now that this spectacle is being aired on the show, real or scripted, it may turn people off to going to the restaurant or holding their own events and celebrations there, thinking they are not going to get what they paid for. Finally, Marina is not a good spokesperson for the restaurant. She actually may drive people away with her voice and attitude.

Good Luck Rasputin! I don’t know if the publicity from the show will end up backfiring and causing you less business instead of more!

Russian Dolls: Russians Do Not Surrender!

Hurricane Irene made it necessary for inhabitants of Brighton Beach to evacuate.  The mayor issued mandatory evacuation, but then found that many Russians refused to leave their homes and neighborhood despite the threat and many risks.  Police were even sent in to make sure residents stayed in their homes and off the streets. The sign above makes it clear why they would not leave: Russians Don't Surrender!!!  

Another glimpse of what Russians are all about thanks to Sheepsheadbaybites.com.

Russian Dolls: First Impressions Of The Cast



After watching three episodes of Russian Dolls, I already have formulated impressions of some of the cast members, some positive, some negative. Let’s put aside all the stereotypical behaviors and customs that they try to focus on. I am going to look at them as individuals, not necessarily Russians or Brighton Beach residents.

Michael Levitis is an attorney who is supposed to support and uphold the law and yet has faced a trial and been sentenced to probation for three years with a $15,000 fine. Obviously, this is not an ethical man or an upstanding man of the community. He has clearly broken the law and jeopardized his license to practice law. However, maybe he isn’t too concerned about that, after all, he has Rasputin, his restaurant, which brings in a good enough income to cover his wife, Marina, with all the fine jewelry and furs her heart desires. It seems to me he does not have his priorities straight.

Marina Levitis is supposed to be part owner of Rasputin. Instead of coming across as a professional business woman, she comes across as a shallow, materialistic bimbo, who constantly criticizes her mother in-law, Eve, maybe out of jealousy. Her high pitched voice really grates on ones nerves. Her values seem skewed and she is teaching her children the wrong things are important; money and things over family.

Eva Levitis is a delightful older woman, at 56, she is far from old as Marina would have us believe. She comes across as very sweet and trying to make the most of living her life. She is passionate about dancing and entertaining and now is making the most of her opportunities, but Marina keeps trying to be a real killjoy.

Anna is young and ambitious. She is working hard to have a modeling career and because she realizes that a modeling career cannot last forever, so she has opened a modeling school. Her objective is to help her family get out of their small, overcrowded apartment. She is trying to become successful and I really admire her work ethic and goals.

Anastasia is more self centered. At 25 years old, she has spent many years in college and still hasn’t made up her mind what she wants to do. At the same time, her parents have been footing the bill for her education and we get the impression she thinks they have endless resources. Meanwhile, she isn’t concerned about their retirement and what they will do while she changes majors time and time again. Now she is talking about law school, which is more expensive and another three years beyond her bachelor’s degree, if she ever gets one.

Diana’s goals are to have a business. I am not sure what kind of business. The first impression we got was that she was looking for a rich Russian man to take care of her. In my opinion, with her beauty and her degree, she should really be trying to make a career for herself before looking for a man. However, she wants to have children at 25 (she is 23) so she can look like a “hot” mother. I think she needs to rethink her goals and ambitions for the near future.

Eddie is hard to take seriously. He comes across as a “Jersey Shore” character without the success. He has an inflated idea of his importance to the show. He already thinks he is a star and going places. He will be lucky if all twelve episodes of the series air. They already changed the time which I suspect is because no one is watching. I think Eddie needs a plan B. He is not going to be the next “Situation!”

Albert? We haven’t seen enough of Albert. I cannot form an opinion based on the little we have seen.

Renata is a very lovely woman. She comes across as loving her life and her husband and enjoys helping people. Her accent is a little strong and at times I don’t understand everything she says, but what I have seen of her is all positive.

Boris is Renata’s controlling husband. His intentions may be good, but he really takes over too much of the time when he should back off and allow Renata some space and freedom. Renata is a grown woman and has had a successful career on her own. There is such a thing as constructive criticism which is meant to help someone and taking over and trying to dictate everything she should do. I’m sure Boris would not like it if Renata walked into his office and told him how to run his business.

Svetlana has played a small role and I have not been able to form an opinion of her, but she did give Renata some good advice about Boris.

What do you think? Do you agree or disagree? We’d like to know.

Picture Credit: Lifetime



Russian Dolls: Hurricane Irene Attacks Dolls

Woe is Brighton Beach and the Russian Dolls!  The Brighton beach Jubilee has been cancelled for this weekend thank to Hurricane Irene!  Officials decided that it would be too dangerous to go ahead with plans this weekend.  The event is being rescheduled for mid September.

Meanwhile our Russian Dolls are being driven out of Brighton Beach due to the mandatory evacuations.  We got word that some of them are ok and carrying on with their usual shopping sprees despite the bad weather.  Last night Marina got her done as well as a mani, pedi for Michael's birthday.  She says, "I can't believe the stupid hurricane had to happen this weekend!"  This morning they were leaving the city as they are in zone A and must evacuate.   They took two cars. 

They stopped at Woodbury Commons on the way to the hotel to do some shopping.  Eva bought a fur Russian Hat for winter.  Then they had a change of plans and decided to go to the Poconos, because the kids would have a better time there. they arrived safely minutes ago.  Eva summed up the whole experience by saying, "Irene I am not your friend, I ran away from you."

How are the other dolls?  You'll have to check back and see if we get word!  Until then, everyone be safe!

Picture credit: sheepsheadbaybites.com