Big Screen, Small Screen

May Sweeps

2010-05-21T05:48:00.000-07:00

My life is pretty much busy with things besides television, so I admit that May sweeps is not the experience it once was. And that's not a bad thing. But, there are still my favorites that I watch on a regular basis and I wanted to see how they amped it up for the season finales.

The Amazing Race: The race was truly unamazing this season. I didn't care for any of the racing teams. In fact, they pretty much all annoyed me. I admit, I was surprised by the winning team. Usually, the winning team can be spotted somewhat early, but this time, the winners had only won one previous leg. Talk about under the radar.
Desperate Housewives: I had an on again, off again relationship with the show this year. I did come back to watch John Barrowman in a role that redeemed him after the whole Torchwood devistation. It wasn't bad. I'm actually curious as to what will be happening on Wisteria Lane next year.
Brothers and Sisters: I still love this family and all of their quirkiness. This finale had all of the highs and (Rob) Lowes I would expect in their finale. And there's that pesky rumor that next year will be a one year jump to the future. Interesting.

I have to watch the Modern Family finale still, and Glee doesn't end until June.

Iron Man 2: Movie Review

2010-05-21T05:40:00.000-07:00

I have really struggled with writing a review for this movie. Not for lack of words, I have plenty of those, but I wasn't really sure how I felt about it. It really all boils down to this. It was exactly what I expected, and it disappointed me.

Let me explain. The first movie was totally beyond my expectations. It, in a word, wowed me. I guess I was hoping to recapture that experience when watching the second movie. No. Go.

RD Jr was still pretty much amazing in the titular role, and the rest of the cast did a great job. In fact, Terrance Howard's voice really bugged me, so replacing him with Don Cheadle was a bit of a bonus. But that was not enough to raise the proverbial bar.

Don't get me wrong, this was a visually stunning eye candy of a movie worth seeing on the big screen, but it was not the visual orgasm that I wanted to kick off summer movie season. But, after looking over the roster of movies coming our way, I can't expect a whole lot. It's going to be a very movie free summer for Brian.

Sex and Teens: Like A Virgin Glee Style

2010-04-22T07:00:00.000-07:00

First and foremost, I need to lay out some disclosure. I think it's pretty obvious I loves me so Glee. I blog about it enough. I'm also a long time Madonna fan. I know, stereotypical of me, but I have enjoyed (most) of her music for, well, decades. Yes, it hurt to admit that, but only because it makes me sound old.

You can imagine my jubilation when they mashed the two together into a Madonna themed Glee episode. Madge-ical? Absolutely! Did I love it? Of course! I've already watched it a few times since I downloaded it from iTunes. (P to the S... it looks smokin' hot on my shiny new iPad.)

What I find interesting is all of the hate spewing from Glee viewers because of the Like a Virgin sequence. (I admit to trolling the comments section on websites. It's a shameful addiction.) Some people felt it was overtly sexual and inappropriate for children to watch. Ok, stop the train for a moment. Who thinks that this is a kid's show? Really? It's on at 9pm for a reason people. High school setting does not equal children's show. It was pretty obvious to me from the get go this was not a show meant for a child's consumption.

I know this is an age old argument, but if this same show had people blowing each other up, there would not be really any complaints. It would be business as usual.

I Couldn't Resist

2010-04-08T22:44:00.000-07:00

I'm in a state of Glee. Only a few more days...

Betty-Thon

2010-04-08T22:21:00.000-07:00

I just sat through four episodes of Ugly Betty to catch up a bit on what I've missed. You see, I kinda gave up no the girl when the show got too messy and convoluted, and then I heard she was going away. I figured why mess around with someone you know is going to leave. (Long story on where I learned that lesson, and I'm saving it for my book.) But, the buzz has been so good lately, I had to go back for one last hurrah.

Wow. That's all I can say. Tears running down my face, and with no tear ducts, that's quite a feat. At first I thought they were bringing Henry back, and to that I say boo. They didn't, thank the deities, and I don't have to hire a witch doctor to make anyone's nuts shrivel. That gets costly, so everyone wins.

For me, the pinnacle was Justin's coming out story. For four years we have watched this young boy struggle to be who he was and live with his head held high. Something that at times still challenges me, I might add. Bravo to the writers and actors for how it was handled. Bra-vo!

For me, Hilda's wedding was so sweet and delicious they could have ended the the series with that.

However, there's one more episode to go. I hope they sustain. I guess I will find out next week.

Who Has the Time?

2010-03-30T07:23:00.000-07:00

So with my go go Gadget life I haven't had much time to watch telly or movies. I did go see Alice in Wonderland last week, but I haven't been able to find the words to write up a review. Still watching the Amazing Race and can't wait for Glee!

Why I Don't Have Cable

2010-03-15T07:47:00.000-07:00

Last night I found myself sitting in a hotel room with nothing to do and some free time on my hands. I had already read the one book I brought with me, and I had no desire to watch any of the movies I had on my iPhone. Since the room had a television with cable, I decided to see what was on.

After a VH1 marathon of celebrity rejects (Celebrity Fit Camp and Celebrity Rehab), I can see why I don't have cable. What a colossal joke! I was so underwhelmed by my options, even when factoring in that I was watching television on a Sunday night.

I have to wonder why people pay so much money a month to watch shows like this.

Teams Dumb and Dumber Combine

2010-03-10T06:33:00.000-08:00

Did any one else cringe when the Big Brother team and Team Model combined forces on The Amazing Race? As I would have predicted, it pretty much spelled certain doooooooooom! I was, however, disappointed that it was a non-elimination leg. I felt that they made the decision strictly based on the team being eliminated. Since it was Team Big Brother (who could help ratings), they kept them on. Get those idiots off of there already!

On another note, I still don't know if I actually like any of the teams. I think I like Steve and Allie, but they never even have any screen time.

District 9

2010-02-23T13:08:00.000-08:00

I tried to watch it, really I did. I just wasn't into it. Quite frankly, I would rather pass another kidney stone than try and watch this movie again. I only made it about 20 minutes in when I turned it off and put on some Sex and the City reruns. I'll take Mr. Pussy over prawns any day.

Amazing Race 16

2010-02-15T07:40:00.000-08:00

I didn't get to catch the episode last night because I was on the road back from Bend. But, thanks to the power of the internet, I was able to catch it this morning as I drank my first pot of coffee.

It's refreshing to see that they kicked it up a notch with the thrills, spills and stupidity factor. I loves me some ignorance to keep the hatred of Americans traveling abroad alive. Surprisingly, two of the more intellectually challenged teams did well. I'm not sure how this will bode in the rest of the race, but color me discouraged. I want to see them crash and burn. I know that's not nice, but these people are making asses of themselves on national television. There needs to be some pain.

As for my favorites, I have yet to decide who will get my vote. They are all a bit snarky, and none have really endeared themselves to me. We'll see how they fare next week.

Oh, and here is an example of one of the intellectually challenged...

My Cinematic Persona

2010-02-09T17:30:00.000-08:00

If ever I were to have a cosmic cinematic (or literary) twin, it would have to be Bridget Jones. Minus the breasts and such, obviously. She really does embody many of the quirks and issues I seem to have with my own life. She, however, can get a date. I choose not to think about that and let's just move on. Anyway, in an effort to make my blog a bit more lively with clips, here is the movie trailer for my soul sister, Bridget.

Free Movies

2010-02-09T17:22:00.000-08:00

I was spending some time with my good friend Kris today and one of our stops was the local library. I'm a total library fan, and I love the downtown Eugene Library for their amazing selection of DVDs that I can check out for free. I loves me some free. I know, I have Netflix, but too much of a good thing is never enough.

So we are there checking out the movies when I see the Witches of Eastwick. I have never seen it. I know the story and I read the book, but I never saw the movie. I watched the quickly canceled show Eastwick, as you may know from my earlier posts.

I think Kris was pretty horrified that I had never seen it, so I grabbed it off the shelf and checked it out. I know what my project is tonight.

Spartacus: Blood and Sand

2010-02-09T17:17:00.000-08:00

I've held off commenting on this show because I wanted to give it a few episodes before I formed an opinion. this is a new thing for me and can be quite a challenge. Well, in case you were wondering, that opinion that I hadn't vocalized (but had formed in my head) was spot on.

Spartacus is exactly what I expected it to be. It's bloody porn. I have no qualms with it. It lacks the grace of 300 (and Gerard Butler), but they have done a fine job of inserting beautiful people in various states of undress. I am still waiting for the story to really grip me, but I haven't given up hope yet. The acting is decent and keeps the show from attaining a groanworthy status.

Lucy Lawless has quite the role. She plays Lucretia, wife of Spartacus's owner. I was quite surprised to A. see her without clothes and B. get finger banged by a female slave. Not in a prudish, I can't handle this sort of way. More of a I didn't ever expect to see that in my lifetime sort of way. I'm sure there were happy straight men and lesbians cheering all around the world. She is deliciously evil in her role. I have to admit, she is helping hold my attention.

The jury is still out as to whether or not this is a must watch television show, but for now, I will continue to watch when I have the time.

Were the World Mine: A Look at Love in Cinema

2010-02-09T17:05:00.000-08:00

As part of my mini tribute to all things love, here is another great scene for those of the love persuasion. From the surprisingly delightful Were the World Mine, this scene has an intriguing use of Shakespeare's dialog.

Because We Can Can Can: A Look at Love in Cinema

2010-02-06T06:41:00.000-08:00

I'm not a big love fest type guy. Mostly because I have basically spent the last decade as a minster (male spinster). However, in honor of VD, I wanted to share some of my favorite on screen pairings. The first is from one of my favorite movies, the spectacular (spectacular) Moulin Rouge!. I have always loved the brilliance of the Elephant Love Medley. It was so beautifully done. So, without further ado, here it is just for you:

Movie Review: Bruno

2010-02-06T06:32:00.000-08:00

Ok, ok. I knew this movie would be dumb when I queued it up, but I was hoping I might be surprised. Not so much. Good for SBC to be willing to go to the extreme lengths he does for comedic effect, but it falls flat. Tired stereotypes and penis shots just aren't funny anymore.

Sadly, I normally would not even care, I would just turn off the movie and move on, but I was desperately in need of a good belly chortle. I should have known better and just watched an episode of Modern Family on hulu. But, lesson learned. Next time, I am not going to waste an hour and a half on a movie that had a laugh ratio of about .00000000000000000000000000007 laughs per minute.

Moon Landing

2010-02-05T08:13:00.000-08:00

Seriously. Just when I thought I couldn't love MF any more, they bust out with a brand spanking new episode that makes me want to curl into a ball of laughter. I want to meet the people who write this magic and have them create terms and phrases that I can work like a Hollywood hooker. Actually, scratch that. Prostitution is illegal in California. Like a hooker in Nevada. I just need to find a good H named town to rock the alliteration.

But, I digress. I am loving Modern Family and I take my hat off to the cast and writers for this little hump day treat.

Movie Suggestions

2010-01-29T07:21:00.000-08:00

I need some new exciting and entertaining movies to watch. Any suggestions?

Modern Family

2010-01-23T11:50:00.000-08:00

Can I just say that this show gets better and better. I find myself loving and connecting with the characters more and more every week. They have dysfunction, but it is the lovable kind, versus the venom spewing kind that my extended family seems to produce.

How hysterical was the fact that Phil was a cheerleader in college? For the record, extremely hysterical. Then there are Cam and Mitchell. Hi. Lar. I. Ous. But, little Manny is usually the one who cracks me up with his old soul. He even had a date with a 30 something woman he met in an internet book club. Creepy and compelling.

I really hope they can keep this mad gold comedy string up. If so, I will hulu them until the end of time.

PS Sorry Modern Family isn't first string, but Glee still gets the 9pm slot on Wednesdays. Now, if they would just move one of the shows so they weren't competing, I would be a happy Brian.

Movie Review: Avatar

2010-01-11T07:19:00.000-08:00

I pretty much knew what to expect with Avatar. Visual spectacle with a story that was a love child of Ferngully and Dances With Wolves. And it met my expectations. There was even a little Aliens thrown in for good measure, which worked nicely with Sigourney Weaver in the cast.

Even though Sigourney was my favorite character going in, the rest of the cast did a favorable job. Zoe Saldana is quickly becoming my favorite new actress. Of course, we didn't actually get to see her in her full glory, she was all blue and sparkly.

What was unexpected was the level of visual juiciness. Eye candy is an understatement. I wish I had seen it in 3D, but it was sold out in both 3D theaters in town. The joys of living in a smaller town. But, there is still time to see it in 3D if I so choose. And I do.

The obvious socio-political references were made, and not hidden at all. One thing that really grated was the name of the ore that the humans were seeking. Unobtainium. Really? That was the best you could come up with? Not to mention the fact that we were given no explanation as to why it was so important. This would not have changed anything, but I still want to know the why behind. It's who I am. I did love the line, "You have to fight terror with terror."

Avatar was exactly what I expected it to be, and that was not a bad thing. My only wish is that I could have a digitally perfect ass. But not in blue, please, and no tail. That would make buying trousers very difficult.

The State of Things

2010-01-09T04:36:00.000-08:00

Once again, I find myself lacking in the blogging department. In my defense, I did move to a different city, and this was this whole holiday season (and post Glee depression). But, I am getting settled and all of that. Plus, I just got Glee: The Road to Sectionals and the entire series run of Sex and the City. Oh yeah, that's right!.

PS I did see Sherlock Holmes, but being as I fell asleep a few times during the movie (exhaustion, nothing to do with the movie, I'm sure) so I will not be reviewing it. Hoping to go see Avatar tomorrow. If I do, I will share my thoughts.

So Easy to Say "No Thank You"

2009-12-20T10:28:00.000-08:00

I'm currently in the midst of packing madness as a I prepare for a move from Portland, OR to Eugene, OR. Which means that I need lots of distractions to prevent me from completing the aforementioned task. Thankfully, with the Netflix watch instantly feature, I can proudly proclaim MISSION ACCOMPLISHED. Unlike a former president who used this phrase in what can only be called a premature ejaculation.

I tried to watch a few blockbusters at first (Obsessed and Confessions of a Shopaholic). I made it through the opening credits on Shopaholic before I aborted that monstrosity. Obsessed I gave a little more time, but I just wasn't feeling it. So, I just turned them off, much like they had already turned me off. No Catholic school boy guilt, just an easy as pie move on with my life decision. Hurrah!

I do admit to watching Eating Out and Eating Out 2. While not cinematic masterpieces, there was a certain sweetness to their screwball comedy nature and the eye candy didn't hurt either.

But, the true standout from my time of distraction was East Side Story. I clicked on it becuase it was rated favorably and didn't look too awful. It was surprisingly sweet, and only small parts of it grated on me. For the most part, it was the perfect distraction. It's a movie I could watch again, and it inspired me (again) to continue learning Spanish. Double bonus!

Glee: The Show Thus Far

2009-12-19T08:17:00.000-08:00

I know I wax a bit too much about Glee, but it really has become my new favorite show. And, since the DVD of the first thirteen episodes is due out very soon, I thought I would look back at a few of my favorite moments.

Preggers: This entire episode was so delightfully delightful, but the "Single Ladies" dance was pure comic gold. Improbable? Of course, but if I wanted reality, I would watch a documentary. Also, Kurt's coming out scene with his dad- very touching.

Acafellas: This is how we do it! Awesome 90s R&B flavor and Puck's first foray into singing. Delicious.

April Rhodes: Kristin Chenowith was such a firecracker in this episode. Not only were her vocals spine tingling, but her comedic timing was definitely worth a Gleepeat.

Push It: Funniest. Musical. Scene. I. Have. Ever. Seen.

And , the best line of the season: The independent polling company in my Dockers has declared that you are the hottest girl in school.

Vampire Diaries

2009-12-15T09:55:00.000-08:00

There's a marathon of it on, and I decided to give it a chance. I got the pilot for free on iTunes, but lacked the will to fully commit to a new series. That's why the marathon was perfect.

Believe it or not, I want to like this show. Kevin Williamson is behind it, and it is not as preteen puke-tastic as Twilight. And they actually mocked Twilight in one of the episodes. But I'm still not drawn in. There's something missing.

Friday the 13th

2009-11-13T18:22:00.000-08:00

In honor of this wacky day of superstition and phobias of the number 13 and witches, I am going to watch a scary movie. No, not the one you're thinking. Instead, I'm going to watch one that pays tribute to this day. Scream. That's right, baby, I'm going 1990s on your ass and getting some Wes Craven/Kevin Williamson Drew Barrymore cameo action tonight. Holiday. Celebrate.

The Carnage Continues

2009-11-13T18:20:00.000-08:00

Well, as we hit the halfway point in sweeps month, news of more shows getting the axe have started to hit. I've already lamented Dollhouse. Still. In. Denial. Now there's talk that Eastwick is gone too. I was just beginning to like that show and ABC gets all choppy with it. Boo. Hiss. This is why I hate watching television shows. I start to like them and they go away. If FOX cancels Glee, all hades will break loose. I am just warning you now.

Geeky Goodness

2009-11-11T18:24:00.000-08:00

Ok, even with my Dollhouse sadness... I am super excited for tomorrow. Not because I have an all day meeting, but because my life will get a little more movie goodness. I will be getting my Netflix PS3 disc in the mail. I will now be able to enjoy instant viewing on my telly without having to hook up the computer. So fast, so easy. I use the term nerdgasm to for this, because it is not only my term of the week, but because it is the only word that can describe the feelings inside. My instant queue is overflowing with movies just ready to be played and I can't wait! What should I add to my queue?

Dying a Little on the Inside

2009-11-11T18:17:00.001-08:00

The rumor mill has been buzzing that Dollhouse is being shut down. I knew it was coming, but it doesn't lessen the pain. I am going to miss my Friday night action (sadly the only action I have been getting on a Friday night) and will now have to fill the void with something else. More on that in a fresh new post.

The Return of Netflix

2009-11-05T19:28:00.000-08:00

I decided to go back to Netflix recently. So far so good. I am glad that they have considerably beefed up the on demand feature. I do so love my instant gratification. I sense a movie marathon this weekend. Any suggestions?

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

ABC's Comedy Wednesday

2009-11-05T15:48:00.000-08:00

With Glee on a temperary hiatus due to lame ass sports, I have had to find alternative amusement on Wednesday nights. Being as I have no life (read: loser to the nth degree, bu who's counting?), I have been able to watch ABC's Wednesday night funnies. Well, let me clarify that. The first hour (starting at 8) is about as thrilling as gential warts, so I won't watch that. I tune in at 9pm for the Modern Family/Cougar Town hour of power. If it didn't compete with Glee, I would happily watch these shows when they air instead of relying on hulu. I have not been a fan of sitcoms for ages, being as they have lacked humor and all. It's nice to see some fun and wit rear it's joyful head... and on network television no less.

They even speak my language. CT actually used the phrase nerdgasm one day after I used it in a blog post. It was as if my humor and my vocabulary were spewing out of my telly.* So exciting!

Moral of the story;. definitely Tivo or visit hulu to keep up on the these shows. It's good for the funny bone.

*I just wanted to use the word spewing.

V: First Thoughts

2009-11-03T21:43:00.000-08:00

It seems strange, but for me, a pilot doesn't always make or break a series. I realize how hard it can be to really get an audience sucked in when you have limited time to establish a story and characters. There are first impressions, sure. But opinions can be changed.

However, not all series are based on iconic (and I use that word in all seriousness) sci fi programs. Some have tried and succeeded (even exceeded) their predecessor. Battlestar Galactica. The miniseries from 2003 was all kinds of amazing. So far beyond anything of the 70s crapfest that was its foundation. Then, there are the failures. I am looking straight at the aborted attempt to rebuild the Bionic Woman. I so desperately wanted to like that show because I had so many fond memories of the original. That was some cheese I could sink my teeth into easily.

V is a whole other monster. I enjoyed the difference that was this new adventure. It paid homage to the original, while trying to establish itself as a whole new creature. On the whole, it succeeded. The cast is sci fi gold. nerd-gasms abounded (is that a word?) when the cast paraded on the small screen. We've got Morena Baccarin and Alan Tudyk from the Whedonverse (Firefly), Joel Gretsch from The 4400. Elizabeth Mitchell from Lost. I also spotted Rekha Sharma from the aforementioned Battlestar Galactica in the trailer for next week's episode. That's some serious geek cred. Enough to cancel out the Party of Five addition to the cast.

But here's where I struggled. I could not get the many water cooler moments (or Kool Aid cooler moments since I was way young when the show debuted) from the original out of my head. We have Anna in the new series, but the old series had Diana (Jane Badler). She was a badass over the top villainess of super size me proportions. Plus that hair! Those glasses! I remember my first glimpse of the lizard within. Everybody talked about it. Which actually made me glad they didn't try and stretch the whole inner not so beauty of the Vistors too long. That would have been just plain mean. And we can't forget the star child madness (MADNESS!) Who knew that cross breeding could lead to super powers.

I will be checking in on the show next week. It was entertaining enough to pique my interests. Besides, let's face it. It isn't as though I have ton to do on Tuesday nights except work on projects that I am desperately trying to avoid.

Scary Movies

2009-10-30T15:46:00.000-07:00

With the onset of Halloween, I got to thinking about my favorite scary movies. It's been a long time since I've seen a really good one, but there are some that really tickled my scary bone over the years.

A Nightmare on Elm Street: Wes Craven really tapped into something with this one. This movie has stuck with me for years. So creepy!

Scream: Wes again. Loved the campiness and fast dialogue written by Kevin Williamson, and the scare factor that slips in to surprise you. Pop culture satire genius.

'Salem's Lot: I was a wee lad when this was on the telly and it scared the pudding out of me. The vampire child floating in full air trying to convince his friend to open up the window... oh hell to the no.

28 Days Later: Danny Boyle, the mastermind behind Trainspotting brings a new kind of zombie to the forefront. One that moves and moves quickly.

Arachnophobia: I hate hate hate spiders and this movie brings them in spades. I remember going to see this in the theaters with my mom, and she had a death grip on me the entire time.

That's what springs to mind for me. Any others I forgot?

Movie Night

2009-10-29T18:19:00.000-07:00

Tonight just feels like a movie night. It's blustery and wet here in P-Town and I just don't feel that social bug, I'd rather just sit at home under a blanket. Hard to say what is tempting my movie bone tho. I could go through my DVD and blu ray collection, but it looks like hulu has added some movies in time for Halloween. Ding. Dong. Once again, thank you hulu.

The List Continues

2009-10-27T22:04:00.000-07:00

I felt guilty leaving it at just five guys on my do me list when there are so many out there gracing the movies and televisions. So, in honor of that, I am presenting the second half of my top ten list. I know you are normally supposed to count from 10 to 1, but I like to let the cream rise to the top. So to speak.

6. Gerard Butler. 300 was 116 minutes of delicious, delightful soft core porn. I have never been so turned on by violence in my whole life.

7. David Tennant. True Confession. I never had more than a passing interest in David Tennant until Doctor Who, and I never had more than a passing interest in Doctor Who until David Tennant. The combo was pure magic. I will not insert any sonic screwdriver jokes here.

8. Dominic Cooper. History Boys and Mamma Mia! Need I say more? If you answered yes, you need to Netflix these movies. Now!

9. Robbie Williams. The only musician to make the top ten, Robbie is the Brit bad boy of rock who went from boy band to bad boy.

10. Jamie Bamber and Tamoh Penikett. They bring out the hot gay nerd in me. Ok, hot may be an overstatement, but they rock my galaxy as the hotshots Apollo and Helo in the reboot of Battlestar Galactica. It was tough to choose, so I got greedy.

This pictures where all sourced from here and no infrigement on copyright was intended.

Top Five

2009-10-27T16:00:00.000-07:00

I got quite the treat in my inbox today when Kris sent me some goodies. When I say goodies, I mean photos of Neil Patrick Harris. Like Jen, I kirked when I saw them. They were totatally suitable for work (which is good being as they went to my work email) and made me think long and hard about my must do list. It had been a while since I had revisited the list. So, in honor of Friends, here is my must do top five.

1. Daniel Craig: Double OH I want to misbehave. Seriously. He makes me want to get into some Bond-age.

2. Hugh Jackman: Mutant Triple X for sure.

3. Neil Patrick Harris: I like a preppy guy who you know is dirty underneath.

4. Mark Salling: New entry on the list, but is totally Puck-able.

5. Chad Allen: I know, he was on Dr. Quinn, but he has gotten seriously tasty as he has matured. Save Me made me want to get down on my knees for him. To pray, of course.

There you have it. Those are my top five at this moment. This list is open to change, depending on where my mind goes next.

This pictures where all sourced from here and no infrigement on copyright was intended.

How Un-Amazing the Race Can Be

2009-10-27T15:51:00.000-07:00

I am a bit of a late comer to the whole Amazing Race phenom, mostly because of my distain for reality shows. However, after last year's cheese incident, I got rolled into watching TAR. Well, now we are in the thick of this season and I have gotten a better feel for the teams. At first I was all for team gay. Hot-ish gay brothers would fuel a fantasy or two that I may or may not have lived out in a previous life or decade. But, as they have progressed, I am so not on their side. Dumb and Dumber. Seriously. Not knowing where the Persian Gulf is? Unable to use a calculator? Not knowing Jackie O? Wow. Sadly, they are intellectual gods next to the inbred christian couple from Tennessee. I was glad to see them get served an epic fail at the hands of a waterslide titles "Leap of Faith". Christian, my ass. The BF (Canaan) was a serious jerk to his virginal ditz Mika. I think that's how they spell their names. It was hard to tell since every time they were on the screen my eyes would roll back in my head.

I think I am into team Barbie and Ken aka Meeghan and Cheyne. Or however they spell it. Seriously hard to keep track of these things. They have won the last few challenges and are looknig good. Here's to hoping!

Come Out, Come Out Wherever You Are

2009-10-24T18:44:00.000-07:00

What is it about coming out movies that makes them generally so terrible? There was this flux of this type of movie in the 90's. And, while it's nice to see some gays representing, does the acting have to be so terrible? I just watched the movie Defying Gravity (not to be confused with the more recent television show with the same name), and it was more of the same. I had forgotten why I stopped watching these movies. Ok, first of all, the clothing in this was really bad. I don't remember dressing like that ten years ago. I pray to whatever deity listening that I didn't. The hair I do remember. And then there's the acting. So cringe worthy. Is it the low budget that causes this or just poor writing and bad acting?

Fortunately, there have been some movies that have come along more recently and don't leave quite the bad taste in my mouth. As I mentioned in this post, Were the World Mine was a delightfully done movie, and a musical no less. So sweet and well done. There were a few actors that were heavy handed, but based on the material, it felt appropriate. In fact, check out the trailer and let me know what you think.

(Alternate) Reality Television

2009-10-24T06:41:00.000-07:00

With this whole balloon boy scandal rocking the news (and don't get me started on THAT lack of parenting), I got to thinking about the whole reality television phenom. I don't get it. I'm coming out as a general hater of that genre. I do enjoy The Amazing Race, but it is because I have a love of travel, and watching those people travel really drives home how stupid most Americans are when they travel abroad. Sad, but true. And I like Rick Steves's shows on PBS. Technically that's a reality television show (he is a real person doing real life travel things), but he is not making an ass of himself for 15 minutes of infamy.

What is it about this type of programming that resonates with people? I really want to understand. It escapes me.

Inner Nerd

2009-10-22T19:56:00.000-07:00

I don't know what it is, but there is something so delightful about inside jokes.

Take Eastwick, one of my new hulu shows. I was just watching the last episode, and there were two, yes two, inside wink wink say no more moments. The first involved Rebecca Romijn and a Professor X reference (where she claimed she didn't know who that was), winking at her appearance in the X-Men movies.

The second was a Michelle Pfeiffer shout out for her performance in The Fabulous Baker Boys (actually make that smokin' hot performance. I got lady wood over it). You may or may not remember, but she was in the Witches of Eastwick movie.

While the show has its annoying moments, it's the little golden nuggets like this that fascinate me and keep me tuning in. Or at least watching it on hulu.

Dirty Thirty

2009-10-21T20:33:00.000-07:00

Just re-read my secret blog post on my 30th b-day, and it made me crave some Bridget Jones's Diary.

Here's her flat. I went on a trek to find it. It was like finding the motherland.

Buffy

2009-10-21T19:51:00.001-07:00

I miss that show.

I Need a Toke

2009-10-21T19:48:00.000-07:00

Of some of that Weeds action. Seriously. That show has some of the BEST writing around. I love me some of those Weeds-isms. I am not sure if I can wait until June. I'm going to compile a list and share them.

Not So Holy Sh*t!

2009-10-21T19:45:00.000-07:00

Oh my squealing inducing word to ya motha!

Reversal of Fortune

2009-10-21T19:06:00.000-07:00

In a bizarre twist of fate (ok, ONJ and John Travolta 1983 flashback there... don't ask), I now find myself really enjoying television and not so excited about movies. Really, there has been nothing in the theaters I have been gagging to see for a very long time. It's like my love life, a total wasteland. I mean, if you made me go, I would see Where the Wild Things Are, but I wasn't there opening night. You certainly won't see me at the werewolf vampire love triangle movie. That would cause spontaneous vomiting on my part. Here's to hoping Comic Con has some tasty treats to butter me up. Of course, that is ages away and I don't want to die on the inside before then. I guess I will just have to revisit my favorite movies here at home. Saves me money. That's a Martha Stewart good thing.

Comic Con

2009-10-21T06:48:00.001-07:00

Ok, I forgot to mention that I am going to be a proud attendee to Comic Con in 2010! Talk about getting my geek on. More info as it unfolds.

Hunger

2009-10-21T06:32:00.000-07:00

As I was perusing IMDB and cyberstalking- I mean researching- Daniel Craig, I came across reference to a television show called The Hunger. For those of you, like me, who were clueless about this, it was on Showtime and was a sort of sexy Tales From the Crypt type program that featured stand alone stories. Daniel, in something sexy. Sign me up! Ok, maybe not so much. No offense to Mr. Craig who is an amazing actor and damn fine, but the show was rubbish. I made it through two episodes (Daniel's being number two). I am amazed this show made it two seasons. I really am. It was sorta bizarre seeing Balthazar Getty in the first episode, I kept having Lord of the Flies and Brothers & Sisters flashbacks. Final verdict: pass, please. I'll stick to my currently overflowing roster of shows.

Still Not Done...

2009-10-21T06:27:00.000-07:00

Ranting about NBC. Seriously. I think more people watch C-SPAN than NBC. I wonder if the Comcast deal will go through. At this point, I don't think the network could get any suckier.

Sweet Caroline

2009-10-20T11:41:00.000-07:00

Finally, it's Puck's moment to shine!

NBC: How's the View From the Little Bus?

2009-10-18T14:45:00.000-07:00

NBC, I am so not impressed with you. Are you trying to create a huge tax break by creating the world's worst network? Five nights of Leno in a prime spot? Canceling Southland (your only promising show besides Chuck in a long time)? Hello? Is anybody at the wheel? Heroes sucks and yet you continue to run it (into the ground), Law and Order is long in the tooth and is about as fresh as a ten day old yeast infection. What do you have going for you? The Macy's Thanksgiving Parade? Oh yeah, you booted the Glee cast out. Really smooth publicity move there.

The Season Thus Far

2009-10-18T14:36:00.000-07:00

Ok, ok, the catholic school boy guilt syndrome in me feels the need to acknowledge the lack of postage (and not the stamp type) as of late. I'm not one for excuses, so I will leave the made for television sob story out of the regularly scheduled program.

We have been in new television for about a month now, and here's what near and dear (or definitely not so) to me.

Glee: I love love love love love this show in a way that only a serial stalker could understand. Love it.

Dollhouse: Glad it's back, hoping to see it get a bit edgier as I know Joss can do.

The Amazing Race: As reality driven as ever, must eliminate the annoying peeps. Enjoy watching it, makes me want to travel again.

Desperate Housewives: It's like candy. If it's there, I eat it.

Brothers & Sisters: Ever so compelling and engaging.

Heroes: We broke up, so I have no idea.

Gossip Girl: I'm over you too. Sorry.

Melrose Place: There's an hour of my life I'm never getting back. So not into that pathetic reboot.

Modern Family: Not bad for a sitcom. It's on hulu, so I watch it on a semi-regular basis.

Cougar Town: Surprisingly funny.

Eastwick: I have to admit, this has become a guilty pleasure of the season.

The Vampire Diaries: Throwing up in my mouth a little over the whole vampire movement (especially Twilight) but this is a Kevin Williamson vehicle so it is cut a little slack.

Ugly Betty: More of pretty much the same. I like the whole Justin storyline introduced in Friday's premiere, would like to see Betty get more of a makeover.

Melrose Place

2009-09-29T21:39:00.001-07:00

After the success of the 90210 reboot (success being used loosely), suddenly Melrose Place is on the air. They are trying to make it a murder mystery, but the only mystery I see is who writes this crap? There are no serious lust worthies and the actors need to go back to acting class. Constipation is not an emotion.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Still in a State of Glee

2009-09-29T12:12:00.001-07:00

Glee is still a winner. Shocking, I know. But I just had to state that for the haters. Every week I find myself looking forward to Wednesdays at 9pm. And on FOX no less! What's the best part so far? Hard to say. Push It rocked, and so did the Single Ladies madness. More to come...

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Can't Fight That Gleeful Feelin'

2009-08-28T21:30:00.000-07:00

Seriously, I am all sorts of freakishly excited over Glee. I am just glad that next week it all begins with an extended director's cut of the pilot. I know, huh.

Anyway, iTunes is offering up some foreplay in the form of music videos from the series. The current one is Gold Digger. I was hoping my hulu would have it up there so I could share, but no such luck. You'll just have to download it yourselves...for free. So sad.

Sing it with me now...

Defying Expectations

2009-08-28T21:22:00.000-07:00

I'm usually not one for summer television. Let me clarify. I'm usually not one for network summer television. Defying Gravity looked ok, in a television movie of the week kind of way, but I probably would not have sought it out. However, iTunes and its wicked "have the first three episodes for free" waiving them in my face like that angry red baboon butt. Of course I can't resist free. Thus the download and subsequent addiction. Is it perfect? No. It has some force fed elements that I am working through with therapy. Are there some delicious morsels of eye candy. Well, no clear winners, but a few would be allowed to stay the night.

The one actor I feared I would loathe is Ron Livingston. It's not his fault, I just see "I'm going to break up via post it because I have no ballsac" Berger from Sex and the City. As a professional courtesy, I won't mention the movie Little Black Book. Sorry, Holly Hunter, love you, but...

Ron is incredibly clean cut and all American astronaut, but you know there's a dirty side to him. Too bad this is network television or he could really let loose. *sigh*

I'll see it through for a while, it is on my favorite hulu, so I have it there when I need a fix.

Oh Snap!

2009-07-31T06:21:00.000-07:00

hulu.com has the original UK Queer as Folk on there. Too bad I already have the DVD. If you haven't seen it, check it out.

HSM On Crack

2009-07-30T07:27:00.000-07:00

I may have mentioned once or twice how excited I am for Glee. Well, here's a new nugget of joy to share that shows how quirky and tasty it is going to be. So watch it bitches!

Torchwood: Children of Earth

2009-07-24T21:15:00.001-07:00

I still haven't processed what happened. I mean, I know why it happened, but I am not happy. I guess I have to break up with Torchwood now too. We'll see how the new doctor does, I am so over Captain Jack.

RIP Ianto Jones, you will be missed.

Movie Marathon

2009-07-24T20:46:00.000-07:00

With my slothful nature kicking in as the heat rises, I have had some free time to partake of some movie catch up action. Here's a quick run down of some of the movies I have viewed over the past few weeks.

Were the World Mine: I was intrigued when this movie hit theaters, but never got around to seeing it. It's a musical (plus) about some hot guys (plus) in a production of A Midsummer Night's Dream (plus), which just happens to be my all time favorite Shakespeare production. I was delighted by this whimsical- I just wanted to use that word- movie, that for a low budget film sported some decent acting and even better singing. What a treat!

The International: Movie about a bank scandal. Or at least I think that was the plot. I was too busy watching Clive Owen. He's on the list, but below Daniel Craig.

A History of Violence: This has been on my to list forever, and I'm glad to check it off. There was too much pressure. A lot less quirky that David Cronenberg's earlier films and chock full of acting talent.

The Spirit: Dumb with a side of "I want my two hours back".

Eastern Promises: Another David Cronenberg film also starring Aragorn, I mean Viggo Mortensen. A totally bad ass movie with one of the most impressive fight scenes I have seen in ages. And not just because of Viggo's full monty glory. Impressive, most impressive.

Twilight: OMFG stupid squared. I ranted about this whole (air quotes) phenomenon on another blog so I will keep my ranting to a minimum. If you like this crap, good for you. I support the right to choose. Just please don't choose it around me.

I Heart Harry Potter

2009-07-23T16:34:00.000-07:00

No, not in a Mary Kay LeTourneau pedophile sort of way. I mean in a "this is what a fantasy summer blockbuster is supposed to be like" way. Visually stunning, well acted, scary bits, funny moments. It was like the buffet where you get to choose the best bits to savor and leave the rubbish behind. Unlike another summer blockbuster sequel. Yes, that would be Transformers. It was less than meets the eye. But, back to Harry Potter...

Even knowing the basic story line (you know, having read the books a few times), I was still delighted and thrilled by the story as it developed. I was also left with a healthy wish for more Harry. I can't wait for the next movie! Well, actually it would be movies plural. They ever so thoughtfully split the last book into two movies.

Unlike a certain vampire series that I blogged about here, I am excited to see how the characters develop and mature as the series progresses. It was like that with the books, and it has carried over to the movies. I have thoroughly enjoyed the series and always look forward to the next installation.

Harry Potter

2009-07-18T06:02:00.000-07:00

I am excited to see it actually hit theaters and I will be going to see it tomorrow morning. I would go today, but I have a scheduling conflict. Plus, if I go on Sunday morning, I avoid the church crowd. Not that the church crowd would be going to this. After all, isn't HP satanic?

Preview: Glee

2009-05-27T20:38:00.000-07:00

I finally got around to watching the preview of Glee. Don't get me wrong, I was pretty excited about the concept and I am a huge Ryan Murphy fan. But, did I really want to commit to another television show, especially one that was on FOX. And then a few things happened. One, FOX kept Dollhouse for another year, which meant I could not fully hate them as much as I would like. Two, I broke up with Heroes and Gossip Girl, so my schedule opened up a bit.

I have to admit, after watching the show, I was filled with Glee. And I also have to fess up to a serious jonesing for the power ballads now, but I can work through that with a little iPod therapy. I don't want to ruin it, I want you to go here to watch the full preview episode or download it for free from iTunes.

PS It has Jane Lynch (who is way underused in this episode), and I always think she is wet yourself hilarious!

Season Finale: Desperate Housewives

2009-05-20T07:07:00.000-07:00

YAWN!

Season Finale: Brothers and Sisters

2009-05-20T07:05:00.000-07:00

A bit lackluster really. There was the whole new take on family dinner, but the ending with Kitty and Robert was straight out of season five of Buffy. And, I'm not the only one who noticed that, thank you very much.

Season Finale: The Amazing Race

2009-05-20T07:02:00.000-07:00

The ending was very karmic with Luke's meltdown at the surfboard challenge, and the snarky dispatcher comment towards the redheads. Luke and Tammy managed to recover from the pig incident (how hard is it to put it on your shoulders, really?) and slow touristy drivers to win.

Season Finales

2009-05-19T06:58:00.001-07:00

I'm compiling my notes on some of my favorite season finales, but I haven't had time to properly articulate my thoughts. I will post something soon.

Movie Review: Star Trek

2009-05-19T06:18:00.001-07:00

First of all, I have to confess, I am not a Star Trek fan. I watched the occasional episode over the years and I have seen some of the movies, but I was never a Trekker (or Trekkie.) On a side note, the documentary Trekkies is a hi-larious look into the, some might say, obsessive world of hard core ST fans.

Since I'm in confession mode, I also need to add that I was not super excited to see this movie. It looked entertaining enough, but it was not raising my thrillometer.

Well, I am happy to report that this movie was quite the pleasant surprise. It was more than I ever expected. Visually, it was stunning, of course. But I expected that. Not just the effects, but the cast. I also expected that.

What I didn't expect was the caliber of acting. I had high hopes for Zachery Quinto of Heroes fame, but most of the others were unknown to me. Except for Karl Urban, playing Bones McCoy. It took me a while to place who the actor was and it drove me nuts. I almost shouted out "Lord of the Rings" in the theater, which would have been a socially awkward moment.

My new favorite was Zoe Saldana as Uhura. She was smokin' hot, if you're into girls or not. I have to admit, her character's strength had a little Destiny's Child "Independent Women Part 1" playing in the back of my head. She was fantastic. And her placement in the awkward much love triangle was a delightful little addition to the mythos of the universe.

Then there was Chris Pine. Playing the part of James Kirk could be pretty daunting. After all, when you talk rabid fans, he seems to have more than any other of the cast. (For a delightful parody of this, see Galaxy Quest.) Well, kudos to Chris for being more than a brilliant pair of baby blues. He had the swagger and the cock-iness to pull of the part. And the bromantical chemistry with ZQ was off the charts.

But enough about the candy dishes, let's talk story. Even though everyone else has seemingly already given away the twist of the time space continuum, I choose to let the viewers discover it on their own. Let's just say it was a brilliant move that boldly lets the the franchise go where it has never gone before.

TAR: The Flush Heard 'Round the World

2009-05-04T14:40:00.000-07:00

I was screaming at the telly last night as the teams were completing part two of the seriously long leg of the race. It was chaotic, bug eating, scary chinese opera make up wearing goodness that was everything I had come to love about this show. All until Jenn decided that her bladder needed relief before she would go to the check point. When it's that close, you just go for it. It all fairness, I say that, but who knows how I would have reacted in the same situation. I was just upset because I wanted those redheads gone. I am done with them and I have been since the get go. I'm all for Team Victor and Tammy. Make me proud next week!

Save the Dollhouse!

2009-05-03T18:55:00.000-07:00

If FOX pulls Dollhouse, I will be seriously angry. They already have some of the worst shows (yes, AI, I'm looking you right in your nasty Simon Cowell browed eyes) on there and Rupert Murdoch is Satan's love child, but this will throw me over the edge. I love Joss Wheson's writing, and Eliza Dushku has always been all sorts of ass kicking goodness. Dollhouse has become a screaming at the television OMFG type goodness, and I need it to break up my week. I have already been disappointed with too many shows. So, light a candle, pray to whatever deity you like, but hope that show is saved for one more year.

The Amazing Race

2009-05-03T17:23:00.000-07:00

I hate reality television. I just do. I love a good documentary, but there is just something about people clamoring to make fools of themselves on these gameshow type shows that irks me. So, you can imagine my surprise when I happened to be flipping through the channels on a Sunday night before I was heading out for cocktails and I came across some people carrying cheese.

I was hooked from that moment on and have been ever since. We are down to the final few weeks, and I am dying to see who wins. Although, I have to say that at this point I'm not sure who I want to win. I just want the cheerleaders gone.

Series Finales

2009-05-03T16:57:00.000-07:00

I was at the library yesterday afternoon perusing the free DVD section, when I came across the final season of Dawson's Creek. I was a closet Creek fan for a few years (especially at the height of the WB's control over all things teen angst), but we grew apart when they all left Capeside. It was just never the same. Plus, but that point they had pretty much all slept with each other and there was nothing more to do with that. However, when the series finale came on, I watched it because I felt I needed some closure. I was so glad I did, becasue I really believe it was one of the best finales ever, but more on that in a second.

So, I was in the library and I decided to revisit my old friends and see if memory served correctly on the end of a WB era. Um, yeah. I was glued to my couch for almost two hours weeping like a proverbial baby and jonesing for my Creek buddies. It was just as fantastic as I had remembered. Especially whne comparing it to some of my other favorite series that had come and gone. Like, say Battlestar Galactica. So not thrilled with most of that ending. But, that is neither here nor there.

I espcially loved the scenes with Jack and Doug. Call me an old softie (or a moderately young softie), but there was something very sweet about how they interacted.

Movie Review: Wolverine

2009-05-03T16:35:00.000-07:00

First of all, let me just state for the record that I am not using the entire title of the movie, I am simply calling it Wolverine. It's not an X-Men movie, per se, although there are certain moments that might suggest otherwise. That's all I'm saying about that.

As always, I enjoyed seeing the engaging Hugh Jackman unsheathe his claws as the titular character. In real life, I bet his mutant power is charisma because he just seems to ooze it naturally. Not to mention how fantastic looking he is. I mean, really, it is just unfair.

The story was not bad. Honestly, based on some of the early reviews, I went in expecting a seriously awful two hours filled with some eye candy and not much else. So, I was pleasantly surprised when it had a plausible story. I felt the story moved at an acceptable pace and it did not feel disjointed.

Two things that bugged me though, for an origins story. There was only a brief moment that covered his childhood which left me with all sorts of unanswered questions (not a good thing for my over-active mind) , and I would have liked to have seen some of the supporting characters developed. Ryan Reynolds especially comes to mind. He is another in the eye candy pool who also has this amazing sense of comedic timing. See his work in Blade: Trinity for more evidence of this.

The effects were as expected. It's hard to get excited about this anymore, because it has been done so many times before. But, they did mostly blend seamlessly. The only notable exception was Emma's diamond skin. When you see it, you'll know what I mean.

All in all, there are worse ways to spend a Sunday morning than with Hugh Jackman slicing and dicing his way through two hours. Definitely glad to see the summer movie season has kicked off with a bang!

Bad Blogger

2009-01-13T21:17:00.000-08:00

The magic is gone. Television just hasn't been thrilling me lately. I still have my Sunday night double feature of Desperate Housewives and Brothers & Sisters, but everything else has gone by the wayside. Gossip Girl never found its groove this season, and even Ugly Betty has been lacking in the thrillsville department lately. I am still excited for Dollhouse, let's hope it doesn't disappoint.

Sunday's Double Trouble

2009-01-06T10:25:00.000-08:00

I hate to admit it, but Sunday has become my favorite night of the week. Sad as my life is, I look forward to my two hours spent watching a few of my favorite shows. First up is Desperate Housewives which is getting back into the groove. The characters are keeping me interested, and a big plus about skipping ahead five years is there aren't as many annoying young children. This week Susan finally got to do something besides pine for a man. She went out with her new frenemy Lee to a gay bar. Lee is so underused in the show. It's nice to see him brought into the fold. But, the performance of the night goes to Bree. It was all very obvious how things were going to go down, but watching her fight to keep Andrew on Wisteria Lane was delightful.

Then there was Brothers and Sisters. Based on the previews, I was worried how the whole baby daddy drama would play out. ABC suckered us (ok, well, maybe just me), but for once I am glad for it. I loved Scotty and Nora's interaction, especially when trying to take Kevin's pants off. Nothing like a good power struggle to keep you in place. I was sad to see Sarah in the background for this episode, but it looks like next week will be a doozy. Keep it coming!

Rewind: Doctor Who- Rose

2008-12-01T21:28:00.000-08:00

After four amazing seasons of the rebooted Doctor Who, I decided to go back to the beginning. Well, not that far back. I'm not a Time Lord. I just meant the beginning of the new incarnation. I loved Christopher Eccleston as the Doctor, but after David Tennant, he just rates second best.

In this first episode, so originally named Rose, we meet Rose. Imagine that. Rose was never my favorite companion. I said it. I loved Martha Jones. But, Rose does have that plucky curiosity that gets the series going again.

On the revisit, I am still pleased with the episode. It was nice to revisit.

Heroes

2008-12-01T21:11:00.000-08:00

Dear Heroes-

I don't know how to tell you this, but I think we need to see other people. It's not you, it's me. Ok, it is you, I was just trying to be kind. It's not that I don't love you, I just feel like we are living in the past. And I'm not talking about Hiro's time travels. It just feels like we are living the same events over and over. Like some bad version of Groundhog's Day. (Was the ever a good version?)

I'm still watching you every week, but it just doesn't feel the same. I'm hoping you can change, but sometimes when we get in such a rut that we can't change. I hope you do, for both of our sakes.

Sweeps Month

2008-12-01T21:09:00.000-08:00

Well, sweeps month has officially wrapped up, and I am still in the processing phase of it all. There were no stand outs in this year's festivities, but some of the more solid shows held their ground. Here's a mini cap of my most watched show.

Gossip Girl: Was this show even on? I remember a boring love triangle, a guerrilla fashion show, and the teen angst-y thing with Dan and Serena. PS Her new art BF grosses me out.

Heroes: See my next post.

True Blood: It sucks, in a good way. Dirty, violent, sticky and sweet. I'm sad the season is over.

Ugly Betty: Still funny, not enough Mark and Mandy.

Desperate Housewives: A big improvement over last season. I would like to see more of that juiciness they are promising, but at least the show isn't a dustbowl.

Brothers & Sisters: Easily my favorite show on the telly. Consistently good writing, a cast so dazzling I need to wear sunglasses and great chemistry. I would complain that they do way too many family dinners gone wrong, but I never get tired of those train wrecks. They are just too intoxicating. Ok, maybe that was a bad choice of words given the copious amounts of alcohol this family consumes...

That's all I've got. I'm out.

Movie Review: Quantum of Solace

2008-12-01T21:03:00.000-08:00

Two words: action packed.

The newest 007 flick whirred by in a string of action sequences so dizzying I could barely see after. The action took place on land, sea, AND air.

Daniel Craig still worked his serious mojo and he has the perfect counterpart in M (Dame Judi Dench). I could have happily watched two hours of their discourse. Instead, I got delicious morsels buried in gorgeous locales and fast cars.

I have to go see the movie again. I missed too much in the aforementioned dizzy fest.

Voter Fatigue

2008-11-03T18:15:00.000-08:00

No, I'm not talking about American Idol. For the record, I don't ever watch that show. I'm talking about the election madness that has taken over this country. Here in Portland I feel like I am being bombarded with negative commercials. It's wearing me out. Not to mention every short bus reject expressing his opinion (and lack of intelligence) on every discussion board in cyberspace. We license people to drive, we should seriously license them to post. I mean, come on. At least write a grammatically correct, properly spelled sentence. At least one. It will all be over (at least the commercials portion) tomorrow! Then I will be able to get back into enjoying sweeps month and I can savor the upcoming releases Quantum of Solace and Australia.

Oh, and for my friends in California... I support you in voting no on Prop 8.

Back in Action

2008-10-28T10:58:00.000-07:00

After weeks of vacation and lots of homework (not to mention all of the television watching I had to catch up on), I am back in the writer's saddle. I am not going to do separate posting for each of my favorite shows, that would take way too much time. But I did want to share some of my thoughts on my favorites thus far this season.

Gossip Girl: started strong, got a wee bit boring with the whole Marcus thing. Now it is back and better than ever. The Yale episode was brilliant with the whole B&S smackdown. Plus, we got to see the start of a blossoming bromance with Nate and Dan. Little J has finally broken free of her boss's shackles and is now moving forward with her own clothing line. I just got a call from the Psychic Friends Network and there are some complications happening in Little J's future. Chuck and Blair have decided they like the game, and so they are going to keep playing it. I think they have both watched Cruel Intentions too many times.
Heroes: Season One redux. Bored now.
Desperate Housewives: Struggling to find their voice this season. Last episode with Karen McCluskey's birthday gave some filler as to what happened in the past five years. I loved seeing old skool Gabby, but Tom is really getting on my nerves. Well, more so than usual. He is such a whiny baby.
True Blood: The show is starting to get some fangs. I'm intrigued.
Ugly Betty: There are some shining star moments. But, what I really need to see are more of the Mark and Amanda pairings. They always get the best lines.
Brothers and Sisters: Still consistently good. I love this family.

Only one week until the election. Get out and vote!

Drink the Blood

2008-09-11T06:01:00.006-07:00

So, I watched week two of True Blood, and I have to admit it has sucked me in. Ok, I couldn't resist that one. The pace was so nice and slow, it was like sipping a cool iced tea by the lake, which fits with that good ol' Southern setting. It has a darkness to it that I think Buffy would have if it had been an HBO show.

Gossip Groan

2008-09-11T06:01:00.005-07:00

What was up with this week's Gossip Girl? I seriously felt like I was watching a lost episode of Dawson's Creek. And not in a good way. The only highlight: pre-teens in Central Park on team Dan and team Serena. It was brilliant.

Movie Review: Cthulhu

2008-09-11T06:01:00.004-07:00

I was looking for something different. As much as I love my big screen box office blowouts, I wanted something more. I heard about Cthulhu at a business luncheon and decided to check it out. It was filmed locally in Oregon (with a few shots in Seattle), and it is loosely based on an HP Lovecraft story.

Basic premise: gay history professor living in Seattle has to go home (a small coastal town in Oregon) for his mother's funeral and to settle the estate. The small town is very mysterious and everyone knows everyone else. His father is a cult leader and very powerful in the community. This is the kind of place you do not take the Kool Aid when they offer it to you. A bizarre series of events follows and creepiness ensues.

One thing that struck me right away was how lush the cinematography was. Most low budget films have a really choppy feel to them, but this one had some gorgeous renderings. There was one scene in particular involving a camera flash and a dark basement that was exceptionally creepy and well shot.

Now, if only the acting were up to the same standards. The lead character, Russ (played by Jason Cottle) had very unexplainable mood swings and he overacted considerably. His former teen lover, Mike (portrayed by Scott Green) had much more charisma and believability. Of course, nothing could top Tori Spelling's over the top performance as Susan, a woman who would do anything to have a child. Her performance was the most (unintentially) scare part of the entire movie.

I might have enjoyed this movie more had the audience been a little less, shall we say socially retarded. I will save that rant for another day.

True Blood

2008-09-11T06:01:00.003-07:00

It's nice to see HBO once again trying something different. Not that vampire shows are different. After all, there was last year's effort, Moonlight. Which, by the way, was surprisingly enjoyable so of course it was canceled. I mean different for HBO. It has all of the classic elements of an HBO program, a notable star or two, nudity and foul language. The perfect recipe to alleviate boredom.

I love Anna Paquin. However, I have to admit I was disturbed in how blond and how thin she was.

As I posted earlier in my lament on pilots, I'm not sure what to think about the show yet. I love the concept. Vampires "coming out of the coffin" and living amongst the masses after a synthetic blood product is invented enabling them to survive without feeding on humans. I love those allegorical stories (vampires are a substitute for *insert minority here*) and so far it seems that vampires are a substitute for gays. Let's look at the facts: lots of sex (check), coming out of the coffin (check, God hates fangs (check). And so forth. Now all they need is a keen fashion sense. Being as this show takes place in a backwater parish in Louisiana, that may be stretching it.

I will watch another episode this weekend and report back.

The Trouble With Pilots

2008-09-11T06:01:00.002-07:00

I'm not talking about the airplane variety, but the first episode of a television show. I was thinking about this as I watched the new show True Blood. Pilots are an odd duck. They either spend the whole time introducing characters (which can get tedious), or they go the route of TB and jump right in, leaving the character development to happen over time. While you get right to the meat with this, it can be quite hard to follow the action.

So, I got to thinking about some pilots that I have watched over the years. In two of my favorite shows (Absolutely Fabulous and Sex and the City), the main character went through a radical makeover after the pilot. In addition, there were minor tweakings to other characters. In my Buffy, they were fortunate that they could just go off the movie that nobody had watched.

One pilot that worked was Heroes. They were able to take the time to develop and introduce characters, but it fit in with their storytelling style. The show is very soap opera-esque when it comes to development (as in nothing happens very quickly).

It can be a tricky business, these pilots. The whole point is to draw people in. But how can it be done effectively?

Mark Your Calendars

2008-09-11T06:01:00.001-07:00

November 14th. Daniel Craig is back as Bond in Quantum of Solace. The new HD trailer is up on Yahoo!, and I caught the first television spot during the premiere of Fringe.

Special Shout Out

2008-09-11T06:01:00.000-07:00

I would like to send out a special birthday shout out to Becky. In addition to being a really good friend, she has been one of my best television buddies over the years. I still miss the Buffy discussions.

Happy Bithday Becky!

Never Been Marcused: Gossip Girl Continues

2008-09-09T21:40:00.000-07:00

Still juicy.

Best Chuck-age of the week: Bass-hole. Mother Chucker was still better.

I want to know what is in the water. Let me tell you, those crazy kids are totally jacked up on pheromones. I'm jealous! It looks like the rumors are true and there may be a totally inappropriate teen/adult hook up soon, and no, I am not talking about Nate and his lady Catherine. (OK, just had a creepy Flowers in the Attic flashback there.) Speaking of the duchess, I am not into the little Queen B/Catherine smackdown that occurred. After all, a woman of a certain age should be able to outsmart a teenager, especially if she is able to snag a husband of noble blood. But, that's just me.

As for Lord Marcus, he really needs to work on his accent. Although, there is that secret delight when you have an American playing a Brit, and a Brit playing an American all in the same scene.

So, two questions. Who's hooking up next week? Who's glad little Jenny has a very limited role this week?

Life on the Fringe

2008-09-09T21:32:00.000-07:00

I am undecided on Fringe. I had no expectations going into it; in fact I wasn't even planning on watching it. The only FOX show I am looking forward to watching is Dollhouse. But, I will say this, at least it is not American Idol.

It was nice to see Joshua Jackson back on television. Life hasn't been the same with the Creek. Not once did I think of Pacey. I'm pretty happy about that.

So, if I'm free next Tuesday night, I might just go back to the Fringe.

Gossip Girl Season 2: Less Guilty, More Pleasure

2008-09-03T21:28:00.000-07:00

Rarely do I need a cigarette after watching television, especially since I no longer smoke. However, the return of Gossip Girl was so hot and intense, I felt the urge. Sex, Chuck and Rock n' Roll.

I won't bore you with a recap, mostly because I want you to indulge for yourself. But, I have to point out some highlights. First of all, I am in love with Blair's creative use of Chuck's name. Mother Chucker was my favorite, but Chuck Bass-tard worked too. If only she could have maintained that level of bitchiness as a constant, instead of alternately hating and pining for the MC. I need her to channel her inner Shannen Doherty for me. Crash a few cars, get in a few fist fights. Something to keep me shocked and amazed.

Chuck, on the other hand, let his bitch flow freely. He tried to hide his little thing for Blair, but we all know under that ascot clad exterior beats, well, not a heart, but something for B.

And, there were some other people, but their story lines were not as interesting. Except for Nate. Little boy is all man sized now and scored an older woman Not older as in college, but older as in cougar. Meow! Technically, she's not a cougar (she is still in her 30s), but she is on the path. Oh, and did we mention she is married to a silver fox? That's right, she is two times forbidden fruit. What would Oprah think?

I look forward to what this new season holds for me. How far will Queen B and MC go to torment each other? Will Georgina and her horrible spandex leggings and over accessorizing be returning? Will Dan and Serena get interesting again? I can't wait to find out.

Before I go, I do have to give props to Serena for being best dressed at the White Party.

Pushed Back

2008-08-13T21:14:00.003-07:00

So, Warner Bros. has pushed back the release of Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince to next summer. Can't say I'm surprised, given the lack of hype (aka teaser trailers) thus far. It is disappointing, I was so looking forward to a holiday treat. It's not like WB has much else of quality to offer. Rumor has it they are trying to shop some movies to other distributors so they won't have to market them.

Heroes Returns

2008-08-13T21:14:00.002-07:00

As if my bladder could barely withstand the pressure from GG starting at the beginning of the month, on 09/22, Heroes comes back. Rumor has it that Season three is wetness inducing. I'd better go buy my Depends.

OMFG!

2008-08-13T21:14:00.001-07:00

Gossip Girl starts Labor Day. Time to indulge in some guity pleasure.

Doctor Who: The Stolen Earth and Journey's End

2008-07-27T19:16:00.002-07:00

Series four of DW just wrapped with the final two action packed episodes, and now viewers of the show will have to wait until 2010 to watch more episodes. I'm wondering if there is a detox program to help me through that.

In this multi-part finale (including the previous episode Turn Left), we see many of the best companions from the past four series come back to help the Doctor face his greatest nemeses, the Daleks. We got Captain Jack (with his final two Torchwood associates in tow), Dr. Martha Jones, and Sarah Jane, one of the senior companions from days past. In addition, we saw the return of Rose Tyler, who was trapped in an alternate dimension and out of the Doctor's reach.

Having them all in place and fighting off the invasion was some serious sensory overload. I love them all ,but having them all in the same place at the same time almost caused some Depends moments. Although it does get a bit repetitive to continually bring back the Daleks, it was worth dealing with them just to see the gang all working together.

In this arc, we really got to see Donna Noble (Catherine Tate) shine. She has probably been the least favorite of my companions, but after watching her do her stuff, I have a new appreciation for the character and the actress.

I don't want to spoil this for those of you who haven't seen it yet, but just know that it really ties up the series with a nice little bow. What a tribute to Russell Davies who is leaving the helm to move on to other things.

Movie Review:The Dark Knight

2008-07-27T19:16:00.001-07:00

Funny thing about anticipation is that it tends to lead to disappointment. Batman Begins was such an amazing movie that the comic book aspect of it almost felt like an afterthought. It had that larger than life feel, but it was all part of the big picture. Not so with The Dark Knight. It felt almost too ordinary. Gotham looked clean and orderly. I even spotted a Starbucks at one point. there was nothing gothic about it, it lacked that grittiness that needs to be the home to Batman. Instead, we got Chicago. And it was painfully obvious that it was Chicago.

Two other things really bothered me. One, Nestor Carbonell's eyeliner. the man is supposed to be the mayor, and he looks like an emo boy. Was he running on the whole raccoon party ticket? It was distracting and embarrassing. Second, I hated Batman's cape. It was this really out of place black velvet monstrosity that pierced my eyes every time it was on the screen. The overall upgrades to the costume were fantastic, but once you saw the cape, the magic was gone.

Now, that I have purged, let's talk about what worked. Heath Ledger. Ok, so the posthumous Oscar buzz is nice and all of that, but many people aren't sure if he has earned it. I would give to him right now. For the first time in years (and I mean years) was I terrified by an onscreen character. The pure evil eminating from him made my heart race at certain points. Not once during his entire performance did I even think it was Heath Ledger. Not once. He embodied the Joker entirely. He was the perfact yang to Christian Bale's yin. Christian, once again, pulls off the flawed vigilante to perfection. He is Bruce Wayne/Batman. No camp, no nipples on the bat suit. He shows the flawed man who risks everything to fight.

The casting in general was actually amazing. I was pleased to see the departure of Katie Holmes, the one detriment to BB. Instead, we got Maggie Gyllenhaal, a much higher caliber actress. And who could forget Morgan Freeman as Lucius Fox? He has such as dryness that just adds a level of pure delight. He has just this way about him. Words cannot describe, or at least my words can't.

Final verdict. While not as exciting as Batman Begins, it still has merits and it worth seeing. Even if just to see Heath Ledger.

Heroes and Villians

2008-07-27T19:16:00.000-07:00

I saw the new promo for the upcoming season of Heroes. Looks pretty intense and engaging. I hope it lives up to the hype, I love the show, but (the shortened) season two was a bit disappointing.

BSG: So Far

2008-07-17T21:32:00.002-07:00

I cannot believe how I have dropped the ball and haven't mentioned any Battlestar Galactica since the new season began a few months back. Color me blond and call it a day. Maybe it is because I am unsure about the new season. It has moments of razor sharpness that have me wetting my kit, but then it pulls this messiah complex out of its ass and I get irritated. Please let the last half of the final season be more like the miniseries and the first season. That's all I want for Christmas. Well, I do want a few things besides that, but I will be good if I know that is one thing hanging in my stocking.

Hulu

2008-07-17T21:32:00.001-07:00

Have you hulu'd yet? If not, I want to know why. You know you need to point your browser to http://www.hulu.com/ for some television mclovin'.

Dr Horrible

2008-07-17T21:32:00.000-07:00

the first two acts of this Internet musical phenomenon are streaming and you must check them out! Although a bit slow moving at first, that true Joss Whedon tongue in cheekiness shines through. NPH is hilarious as the main character. He has that certain dorkish adorableness that makes him all the more pitiful as a villain. Nathan Fillion is back for yet another Whedon World adventure, and he doesn't disappoint. Act three will be available in two days at http://www.drhorrible.com/, or download the episodes from iTunes. Put it on your shiny new iPhone. You know you were one of the ones waiting in line.

The Return of Joss Whedon

2008-06-25T20:13:00.002-07:00

No, I'm not talking about Dollhouse, the new series coming to FOX next year. (Although I do get a bit giddy at the thought of Eliza Dushku and Tahmoh Penikett on the same television series. After all, it's Faith and Helo on one screen!) I'm talking about the new Internet project that debuts on July 15th. Dr. Horrible. It will be streamed for free online for a few day period, and it looks like campy cheeky fun. So, go to http://www.drhorrible.com/ and check it out. Show some love for Neil Patrick Harris and Nathan Fillion.

Movie Preview: Quantum of Solace

2008-06-25T20:13:00.001-07:00

I saw the preview today. OMFG! That's all I can say.