Pre-Oscar party benefits Artists for Peace and Justice

The event: The Hollywood Domino pre-Oscar Gala & Tournament, staged in partnership with Swiss watchmaker Bovet 1822. It benefited Artists for Peace and Justice. Founded by Paul Haggis, a two-time Oscar-winner for writing and producing “Crash,” the charity supports peace, social justice and the alleviation of poverty in Haiti.

The game: Hollywood Domino is a version of the children’s game, enhanced by a generous helping of star power. Players at the Thursday event included Jon Hamm of “Mad Men” and recording star Kevin Jonas.

The crowd: Rumer Willis sang two numbers supremely appropriate for a charity affair: “Why Don’t You Do Right?” and “For What It’s Worth,” while minglers included Kate Beckinsale, Adrien Brody, Kellan Lutz, AnnaLynne McCord, Vanessa Hudgens, Maria Bello, Omar Epps, Columbus Short, Bovet 1822 owner Pascal Raffy, and game creator Daya Fernandez.

Quotes of note: Having won the tournament two years ago, Hamm said gaming talent was only partially responsible for his victory. “I think it takes a lot of luck,” he said, adding, “But then luck is a part of life.”

Hamm said his interest in turning up at the tournament had more to do with the cause and his friendship with Haggis. He praised the director for “getting behind the cause.” Artists for Peace and Justice “gives a lot of opportunity to a lot of people who otherwise would have none,” Hamm said, adding that the charity provides aid to causes including education, schools, facilities, money and healthcare.

Ellen Olivier is founder of Society News LA.