March 5, 2015 – Updates to Ricmenello.com, the website that pays tribute to the late director and screenwriter who passed away two years ago March 1, include the important Rebuttal to Richard Brody. This piece was written by Vincent Giordano. It clearly points out Brody’s defamatory intentions, inaccuracies, and false statements written in two articles published following Menello’s death. Giordano, who worked with Ric on many occasions throughout his life, reveals how offensive these articles were in this strong and passionate rebuttal. It is followed by the first of many rebuttals written by Ric’s close friend and fellow film critic Mel Neuhaus that were omitted from the comments section when the original articles were published.

The website also now has an updated bio. It features insight into Ric Menello’s early years, his early inspirations, education, and projects and affiliations. The bio also showcases his work with the Beastie Boys as a music video director and writer for a television pilot. Images of his childhood and career are included here as well.

Also, a new story has been added to the “Recollections of Ric” section. This touches on Ric’s work with Rick Rubin and its impact on Def Jam and The Beastie Boys. In addition to archived footage, music videos, and of course, The Beastie Boys’ “No Sleep Till Brooklyn” video, the “Videos” section now features a new entry. “Menello Archives: Volume Four” is a three-and-a-half minute video of Ric Menello singing with a few friends on Christmas 2012. Here, the director sings “The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance”.

The website still includes the features it originally provided as a tribute. There are written materials from Ric himself, photographs, stories written by others on what it was like to work with him, and the Menello Archives. Here, there are music videos directed by Ric and also video features. In the news section, there is now a remembrance of Ric on the second anniversary of the day he died. It announces the website update and introduces the rebuttal, updated biography, and addition to the recollections page.

Intended as a source of information and entertainment, the website celebrates the life of Ric Menello. It is open to inclusion of writings and photographs submitted by the general public.

To learn more about the life and work of director and screenwriter Ric Menello, and view updated information and content, visit the website at http://ricmenello.com/

About Ric Menello

Richard “Ric” Menello was born in 1952 in Queens, New York. A New York University graduate, he is best known for his work with Rick Rubin who founded Def Jam Recordings, and directing The Beastie Boys videos “(You Gotta) Fight for Your Right (To Party!)”. He was a recipient of two RIAA certified Gold Video Awards and a 2x nominee of Billboard Music Video Awards. Ric continued working as a screenwriter into the 2010s in Brooklyn. He died of a heart attack on March 1, 2013.

###