I am always playing catch up with films that I missed watching in the theaters. Here are a few from 2008 that I finally watched.
1. The Vicious Kind - This was one of those indie films that I kept my eye out for - hoping it would land in the one independent theater in my area, but alas it never did. I finally watched it on my instant Netflix. I was intrigued by the casting of this film - I have never seen Adam Scott in a dramatic role and have never seen Brittany Snow in a "mature" role. They both nailed their parts perfectly (plus it features the always perfect JK Simmons). The story is interesting from the start - it is about Caleb (Scott) who has obvious f***ed up feelings towards women (they are all whores) and his steps towards reconciling those feelings. He becomes infatuated with his brothers girlfriend (Snow) while warning his brother that she will inevitably break his heart. It doesn't help that the girlfriend strikes an amazing resemblance to Calebs ex (who I assume cheated on him and is the reason for his hatred of women). Another reason for his hatred of women is that he believes that his mother cheated on his father and then abandoned him (by dying of Cancer). I absolutely love that the main character is completely unlikeable and complicated (and contradictory - he treats women like garbage but then defends a random woman who is being disrespected by 2 strange men). I love that he believes that the only way to protect his brother is by hurting him. Finally, I love that his theory inevitably rings true - the girlfriend cheats on her boyfriend with Caleb (the same night she takes her boyfriends virginity) - what a whore!! Overall, I enjoyed this film - it had a great simple plot, the acting was subtle and dramatic - plus it didn't try to teach any sort of lesson (other than the simple message that "life is messy").
2. Nothing Like the Holidays - At first glance, this film seems like another family oriented holiday film - yawn. But, I remember seeing the trailer - and being really excited for it. First of all, you don't see many Hispanic families represented in films. Second, I love Jay Hernandez (ever since 2001's Crazy/Beautiful). Third, the rest of the cast is fantastic (and what a huge cast that is!). The film wasn't really anything special or memorable. I love seeing a "real" family - only because my family dynamic is rather small, however - I think they tried to tell too many stories at once - and none of them were at all interesting (and mostly predictable).
3. Lakeview Terrace - Patrick Wilson became a favorite actor of mine with his work in the Angels in America mini-series (one of the best mini-series on tv. ever.). However, Samuel L. Jackson usually over-acts and plays the same bad-ass character (plus I can't see him without picturing him on the witness stand yelling out "Yes they deserve to die! I hope they burn in Hell." - greatest quote ever). The film was directed by Neil Labute - which is the only feature of the film that peaked my interest. As a Drama studies major - I am familiar with Labute more as a playwright than film maker (although he has turned some of his plays into films). He mostly deals with darker side of human nature - and while his plays usually fall short in plot, the characters are sure to be complicated. This is exactly what happens with this film - the plot is ridiculous and quite stupid, however - it speaks a lot about human nature, stereo-typing, racism and interracial relationships. Plus it is another film featuring Jay Hernandez (what a nice coincidence..).
4. Incendiary - I admit that Michelle Williams has grown on me (I absolutely hated her as Jen Lindley on Dawson's Creek - she was the weakest link on that show), but now I see her as a decent actress (and a pretty down to earth person - she could have used her relationship with the late Heath Ledger to her advantage but instead kept mum and prioritized protected their daughter instead. I have a huge amount of respect for that alone). That being said - I do not like her in this film. Her British accent is embarrassing - plus the fact that she just oozes "all American girl" - she is just plain awkward trying to fit in as part of London's working class. So, the films big "lesson" is: Bad things happen when you cheat on your husband. In her case, things went particularly awful (her husband and child were both killed in a terrorist attack at a Football game as she was in the middle of adultery - I can't say it could possibly get any worse than that). The irony of the film is shoved in your face (her husband is a bomb diffuser and is killed by a bomb). The plot is predictable (her husbands co-worker tries to get with her after the tragedy and *spoiler alert* he knew there was a terrorist threat at the game). The only interesting part of the film is her downward spiral of craziness that turns into delusional seclusion. It asks the question - how does one possibly survive such a tragedy (and is it even worth surviving)? The answer is a resounding NO - that is until we realize that she is pregnant. The writers obviously knew that there is no way to give this woman a reason to not kill herself without introducing a "new beginning" of sorts. I can't say that I liked this film, but it kept me interested and kept my emotions stirring.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Friday, October 22, 2010
Oh the controversy! 3 thoughts on the GQ/"Glee" hoopla.
I just wanted to share my thoughts on the controversy that is surrounding the "Glee" photo shoot with GQ magazine - since it doesn't seem to be going away any time soon.
1. The blame: Let me start off by saying who is to blame for this disaster...and it is not the actors involved. The GQ photo shoot was a vehicle to promote Glee – the accompanying article is about being “inside the Glee phenomenon”. Glee is a hit show – but it’s not a number 1 show due to the fact that it is consistently missing a huge demographic -“the straight male”. This was an intentional photo shoot to entice “the straight male” to watch the show. Someone who works for FOX set up this "Glee Gone Wild" shoot. The actors are obligated (by a contract) to promote the show however the network deems necessary. The intent was controversy (hello- the photographer alone is controversial enough) and they succeeded. The backlash of these photos should be taken out on the appropriate person because the actors were just doing their job. I think that the actual person responsible should take ownership instead of letting the actors take the blame – poor Dianna Agron sort of apologized on her blog writing that the photos “weren’t my favorite idea…but I did not walk away”. Dianna seems visibly uncomfortable in these pictures - which aren't nearly as suggestive as her co-star Lea's - so her admission seems honest and likely. However, the fact is that if she did walk away she would be in serious hot water and of course none of the actors can claim that the network forced them to do it because again…hot water. So for the people creating petitions to get Lea fired – you are being ridiculous. Judging her morals based on some raunchy pictures is even more ridiculous.
The pictures: Dianna’s explanation of the pictures is that they were asked to play heightened (i.e sexier) versions of their characters. I get it. The cover photo is exactly that. Finn (Cory Monteith) caught in between the 2 girls that he loves – and being Finn if he had the chance he would totally grab both of their asses and grin from ear to ear. Quinn (Dianna Agron) continues to exude a natural sexiness in a totally angelic way, while Rachel (Lea Michele) if asked to be sexy would go completely overboard by opening her mouth awkwardly (because she doesn’t know how to be sexy). The photographs inside continue this theme – Finn playing the drums, Quinn with her cheerleader pompoms and Rachel overacting with a lollipop (which is a sexual way of showing her “innocence”). In case you’re not familiar with the show - Rachel is the girl who dressed like Sandy from Grease because she thought it was sexy – to which Finn told her she looked like “a sad clown…hooker”. Sadly, this is what she looks like in these photos as well – but something about them screams “Rachel” to me. She wouldn’t know the difference between “raunchy” sexy and “classy” sexy. Overall, the photos are exactly what they were going for and they aren’t that bad – they just aren’t very creative either. The only picture that I would call “controversial” is the one with “Rachel” spread eagle on a locker room bench – and not because she has the expression of a blow up doll but because when you first glimpse at the picture it looks like the bench is practically penetrating her (something that the photographer obviously could see but she probably didn’t realize when posing).
The controversy: I am still in shock that these photos are still being discussed, because I have seen so much worse. There are a few different reasons why people seem to be up in arms about these photos – the biggest one is from the PTC who claim that the photos “border on pedophilia” which is the most absurd claim they have ever had. The actors are beyond old enough to pose for such pictures. I understand that they are portraying high school students and that the photo shoot takes place in a high school – but this is certainly not the first time the sexy school girl idea has been used (nor the last) and the girls are not even nude – they look like they are wearing the Victoria’s Secret “pink” line (which is geared for teenagers). For the record, your teens have seen worse than these photo’s – go online and type Lea Michele in to Google and I guarantee you a dozen or so websites will give you pictures of a topless Lea from her Broadway appearance in Spring Awakening. Now type Heather Morris (who plays Brittany on the show) – again topless photos. When are parents going to learn that it is not up to the media to teach children how to behave? The media is full of violence, pornographic images, drugs etc – this is not going to go away, it will only inevitably get worse. It is called PARENTING. Another “controversy” is represented by Katie Couric who claims the pictures to be inappropriate because “they are very adult photos of young women who perform on a family show”. Since when is Glee a family show? It is rated for teenagers over the age of 14 – It is certainly no Full House. Yes, I think it is aimed at teenagers but I am sure these teenagers aren’t watching the show with the family gathered around. Another controversial claim is that Cory, Lea and Dianna are supposed to be role models for our youth – a claim which I agree with (it comes with the job of being in the public eye), but again this isn’t their doing. It is not like Lea went out on her own and posed for Playboy (although she has every right too – but it would also give us the right to judge her for it- negatively and/or positively). The only interesting take on the whole controversy was from an article on NPR.com which dismissed the pedophilia claims but instead judged the photos on it's portrayal of young women. The article discussed how the pictures show the women “pawing” at the man making them submissive (and dumb?), which I can sort of get behind that claim (only because Cory is layered in clothing – which is severely disappointing in my opinion…). However, if the photos were flipped and the 2 girls were dominating the male in the photograph it would be seen as controversial as well…no?
1. The blame: Let me start off by saying who is to blame for this disaster...and it is not the actors involved. The GQ photo shoot was a vehicle to promote Glee – the accompanying article is about being “inside the Glee phenomenon”. Glee is a hit show – but it’s not a number 1 show due to the fact that it is consistently missing a huge demographic -“the straight male”. This was an intentional photo shoot to entice “the straight male” to watch the show. Someone who works for FOX set up this "Glee Gone Wild" shoot. The actors are obligated (by a contract) to promote the show however the network deems necessary. The intent was controversy (hello- the photographer alone is controversial enough) and they succeeded. The backlash of these photos should be taken out on the appropriate person because the actors were just doing their job. I think that the actual person responsible should take ownership instead of letting the actors take the blame – poor Dianna Agron sort of apologized on her blog writing that the photos “weren’t my favorite idea…but I did not walk away”. Dianna seems visibly uncomfortable in these pictures - which aren't nearly as suggestive as her co-star Lea's - so her admission seems honest and likely. However, the fact is that if she did walk away she would be in serious hot water and of course none of the actors can claim that the network forced them to do it because again…hot water. So for the people creating petitions to get Lea fired – you are being ridiculous. Judging her morals based on some raunchy pictures is even more ridiculous.
The pictures: Dianna’s explanation of the pictures is that they were asked to play heightened (i.e sexier) versions of their characters. I get it. The cover photo is exactly that. Finn (Cory Monteith) caught in between the 2 girls that he loves – and being Finn if he had the chance he would totally grab both of their asses and grin from ear to ear. Quinn (Dianna Agron) continues to exude a natural sexiness in a totally angelic way, while Rachel (Lea Michele) if asked to be sexy would go completely overboard by opening her mouth awkwardly (because she doesn’t know how to be sexy). The photographs inside continue this theme – Finn playing the drums, Quinn with her cheerleader pompoms and Rachel overacting with a lollipop (which is a sexual way of showing her “innocence”). In case you’re not familiar with the show - Rachel is the girl who dressed like Sandy from Grease because she thought it was sexy – to which Finn told her she looked like “a sad clown…hooker”. Sadly, this is what she looks like in these photos as well – but something about them screams “Rachel” to me. She wouldn’t know the difference between “raunchy” sexy and “classy” sexy. Overall, the photos are exactly what they were going for and they aren’t that bad – they just aren’t very creative either. The only picture that I would call “controversial” is the one with “Rachel” spread eagle on a locker room bench – and not because she has the expression of a blow up doll but because when you first glimpse at the picture it looks like the bench is practically penetrating her (something that the photographer obviously could see but she probably didn’t realize when posing).
The controversy: I am still in shock that these photos are still being discussed, because I have seen so much worse. There are a few different reasons why people seem to be up in arms about these photos – the biggest one is from the PTC who claim that the photos “border on pedophilia” which is the most absurd claim they have ever had. The actors are beyond old enough to pose for such pictures. I understand that they are portraying high school students and that the photo shoot takes place in a high school – but this is certainly not the first time the sexy school girl idea has been used (nor the last) and the girls are not even nude – they look like they are wearing the Victoria’s Secret “pink” line (which is geared for teenagers). For the record, your teens have seen worse than these photo’s – go online and type Lea Michele in to Google and I guarantee you a dozen or so websites will give you pictures of a topless Lea from her Broadway appearance in Spring Awakening. Now type Heather Morris (who plays Brittany on the show) – again topless photos. When are parents going to learn that it is not up to the media to teach children how to behave? The media is full of violence, pornographic images, drugs etc – this is not going to go away, it will only inevitably get worse. It is called PARENTING. Another “controversy” is represented by Katie Couric who claims the pictures to be inappropriate because “they are very adult photos of young women who perform on a family show”. Since when is Glee a family show? It is rated for teenagers over the age of 14 – It is certainly no Full House. Yes, I think it is aimed at teenagers but I am sure these teenagers aren’t watching the show with the family gathered around. Another controversial claim is that Cory, Lea and Dianna are supposed to be role models for our youth – a claim which I agree with (it comes with the job of being in the public eye), but again this isn’t their doing. It is not like Lea went out on her own and posed for Playboy (although she has every right too – but it would also give us the right to judge her for it- negatively and/or positively). The only interesting take on the whole controversy was from an article on NPR.com which dismissed the pedophilia claims but instead judged the photos on it's portrayal of young women. The article discussed how the pictures show the women “pawing” at the man making them submissive (and dumb?), which I can sort of get behind that claim (only because Cory is layered in clothing – which is severely disappointing in my opinion…). However, if the photos were flipped and the 2 girls were dominating the male in the photograph it would be seen as controversial as well…no?
Friday, October 8, 2010
My Thoughts On 14 New Fall Shows
Here are my thoughts on the new shows that I have been watching this season (a record 14 new shows!!). Most are pretty disappointing (as can be seen by the ratings), but a few shows have some potential - unless they get cancelled first...
1. Undercovers - This was the show that had the most potential for me this season. It was the next JJ Abrams creation - and I usually fall head over heals for anything he touches. Plus it is a spy series (like Alias) which is like a dream come true. I was really surprised by the premiere because it was so bland - there was absolutely nothing bold, creative, innovative or inspiring about it. It didn't feel like a JJ show at all. I am happy to see a show on prime time that features 2 African Americans as the main characters, but that is not enough to keep me invested. The second episode was worse - I almost fell asleep. I can only promise to watch 2 more episodes before it is deleted from my DVR. JJ - you better bring it.
2. Detroit 187 - I am satisfied with this show so far. It reminds me of Southland a little bit - in that it is a grittier cop show and it features a "rookie" cop (this whole "rookie" plot device seems to be a bit overused this season). I am a fan of Michael Imperioli, I am glad that he is moving past his Sopranos character. I also really liked how the premiere ended - with the rookie getting shot and then the wife calling. It made me want to watch the next episode (which is kinda the point of the whole premiere episode thing...). So, after a few episodes I would describe the show as mediocre - but I think it will get really good once it finds it finds it's niche and continues it's steady character development.
3. Outsourced - Let me start by saying that I don't think the show is offensive - maybe it is but in the way that comedy is supposed to be offensive. The show does a good job at making fun of everyone (with Americans taking most of the punches). The only thing that I find odd is that they don't speak Hindi (they all speak English - I am aware that English is an official language of India - but I think having all of the Indian characters speak English all the time is slightly offensive, but also completely fixable). That being said - I also don't think the show is funny. Not yet anyway. I like the main American character, I appreciate that it is socially conscious and relevant to current world issues. Yes, Americans are materialist and waste money on dumb novelty items instead of spending it on useful things. Let us make fun of them! Just start making it actually funny please.
4. Chase - I'm not sure why I ever watched this show to begin with - I guess because it featured a strong female lead. I watched the first episode and was appalled. The strong female lead turned out to be a really awful actress who's voice (and accent) is painful to listen to. Plus it takes place in Texas - so it is severely conservative. I watched 1/2 of the second episode but decided not to torture myself anymore. I am guessing that it will be cancelled within a few episodes.
5. No Ordinary Family - This show definitely is riding on the heels of Heroes. I guess it is a good thing that I was a super huge fan of Heroes - at least the first season. It is simple yet witty, plus it has a fantastic cast - including The Commish (Michael Chiklis - I know he is known now from The Shield but I've never seen it) and of course, the lovely Julie Benz. The best part of it all was Autumn Reeser! Taylor Townsend from The O.C! The plot is great - and I felt an emotional connection to the family within the first few minutes. I even started to tear up when they were in the plane crash (the one that gives them their extraordinary powers). Definitely has the most potential of all the new shows.
6. Raising Hope - I am not a fan of the whole White trash humor thing - I hated My Name is Earl for this reason (this show is written by the same person). I didn't have great expectations for this show - and I think I was right. The problem is that the critics are loving it - which utterly confuses me. It was already picked up for a full season!? So I keep watching it - I figure that I must be missing something right? I hope it gets better.
7. Running Wilde - The next show on the chopping block and rightly so. It is severely unfunny. I can't really understand why - when you have such talented comedians like David Cross and Will Arnett...so I guess we should blame the writing? I am pretty sure the show will be cancelled soon so I haven't really invested my time in getting to know the characters. It feels like it has a little Dharma & Greg opposites attract story-line, which isn't all that interesting.
8. Blue Bloods - I might have discovered the one and only CBS show that I enjoy. I had no interest in it - knowing only that it is a new cop show that stars Tom Selleck. Then I happened to catch a commercial for it and spotted a very interesting cast. Bridget Moynahan - who is one of the most beautiful women in the world and a very talented actress, Will Estes - JJ from American Dreams and Donnie Wahlberg - Hello! I've only watched the first episode so far - it was decent but it will without a doubt get better. The ending to the episode definitely caught my attention - with the whole mystery surrounding his brothers death. I loved how The Soup made fun of the first minute of the series - it was extremely funny how they set up the show so that you would know who everyone was, what they do for a living and how they are related to each other in the first minute of the show. Hopefully, the writing will become a little less obvious and a little more intelligent. I have high hopes for the series as a whole.
9. Better With You - I absolutely hated the beginning - it was painfully unfunny. It was set up to show the different stages of relationship and of course followed the cliche that the longer that you are married the less you communicate (and the less you have sex). Then something strange happened in the middle of the episode where Ben is giving Casey pointers on meeting the parents - it became quite funny. Plus, who doesn't love Debra Jo Rupp? The second episode was also consistently funny - I would totally live in that firehouse. I wouldn't say it's this year's Modern Family or anything - but at least it is a new comedy that I actually laughed out loud to.
10. My Generation - I guess it is pointless in even writing about this show, considering it is already cancelled - before I even had a chance to blink. It was worthy of cancellation - I just wish I didn't like the cast so much (The kid from Cloverfield, the weird kid from Wedding Crashers, and Jaime King). I feel like it could have gotten better....maybe? I don't know how far they really could have gone with such a ridiculous premise and the worst cliche's and stereotypes in the history of television. It kind of reminded me of October Road - only I liked October Road (it was mediocre writing, but the talent was there). Oh well.
11. The Whole Truth - Very predictable law show - nothing new or exciting. I like the concept that they show the actual truth behind the case, but I don't think that is a new concept - I have definitely seen it before (not sure where). I think that Maura Tierney and Rob Morrow have a great chemistry together and their dialogue is sarcastically witty, but they lack the support from other characters - all of whom are bland. The actual cases need to be a little more intriguing as well - so far I haven't cared about the outcome at all (and I haven't been surprised when the "truth" is revealed).
12. The Event - ok...so I have no idea why this show is being compared to Lost. I guess because it has a little mystery to it? That is about the only similarity. So far there has been zero character development from anyone except Sean Walker (played fantastically by Jason Ritter - who I wish just stayed on Parenthood - I loved his relationship/chemistry with Lauren Graham). There are so many other great actors on the show that are not being utilized. The show is a government conspiracy about a non-human race that exists on Earth. There have been some nice twists (like having the girlfriend's father flying the plane) but for the most part - things have been a little predictable (like when all of the corpses come back to life). I plan to keep watching, so that I guess is a good thing.
13. Nikita - This is the biggest Alias rip-off yet. I guess in theory - the Nikita character came before my dear Sidney Bristow, but I have never seen it before so to me it feels like an Alias rip-off. But the similarities are not just with the character either - the way the show is set up with her trying to "take down" an evil government agency called "division" after they murdered her fiance - they even have an eerily similar voice over explaining her story in the beginning of each episode. Anyway, that being said - ever since Alias ended there has been a giant hole in my tv loving heart. I am trying to convince myself that this show may fill the void (slightly). I am glad to see Shane West, of course you know how much I love Melinda Clark and I am even happy to see Xander Berkely (from 24). I am predicting Lindsy Forsenca will be a star. She is stunning, interesting, emotional and inquisitive - much less vapid than the usual CW starlet. I loved the twist of her character working with Nikita - that was a nice surprise.
14. Hellcats - A show about cheerleaders - I have no idea what exactly peaked my interest. I guess I liked Bring it on, so I figured this might be a fun show. It is obviously cheesy and unnecessarily dramatic but I kind of like that when it is done well (like the new 90210). I am indifferent on Ashley Tisdale - I think she is a bit of an over-actor. I think I am too old to know who the other girl (Aly Michalka) is because apparently she is some big pop star among the tweens. I did read that her sister is Hunter Parrish's girlfriend (soo jealous). Anyway, I don't mind her as an actress but her character is a little troublesome - she is no Eliza Dushku and wearing black doesn't give you an edge. So the show was a little contrived and predictable - I was ready to give up on it but then I spotted Gale Howard! Now I have to keep watching - plus I sort of like watching the cheer leading routines - they are pretty awesome.
1. Undercovers - This was the show that had the most potential for me this season. It was the next JJ Abrams creation - and I usually fall head over heals for anything he touches. Plus it is a spy series (like Alias) which is like a dream come true. I was really surprised by the premiere because it was so bland - there was absolutely nothing bold, creative, innovative or inspiring about it. It didn't feel like a JJ show at all. I am happy to see a show on prime time that features 2 African Americans as the main characters, but that is not enough to keep me invested. The second episode was worse - I almost fell asleep. I can only promise to watch 2 more episodes before it is deleted from my DVR. JJ - you better bring it.
2. Detroit 187 - I am satisfied with this show so far. It reminds me of Southland a little bit - in that it is a grittier cop show and it features a "rookie" cop (this whole "rookie" plot device seems to be a bit overused this season). I am a fan of Michael Imperioli, I am glad that he is moving past his Sopranos character. I also really liked how the premiere ended - with the rookie getting shot and then the wife calling. It made me want to watch the next episode (which is kinda the point of the whole premiere episode thing...). So, after a few episodes I would describe the show as mediocre - but I think it will get really good once it finds it finds it's niche and continues it's steady character development.
3. Outsourced - Let me start by saying that I don't think the show is offensive - maybe it is but in the way that comedy is supposed to be offensive. The show does a good job at making fun of everyone (with Americans taking most of the punches). The only thing that I find odd is that they don't speak Hindi (they all speak English - I am aware that English is an official language of India - but I think having all of the Indian characters speak English all the time is slightly offensive, but also completely fixable). That being said - I also don't think the show is funny. Not yet anyway. I like the main American character, I appreciate that it is socially conscious and relevant to current world issues. Yes, Americans are materialist and waste money on dumb novelty items instead of spending it on useful things. Let us make fun of them! Just start making it actually funny please.
4. Chase - I'm not sure why I ever watched this show to begin with - I guess because it featured a strong female lead. I watched the first episode and was appalled. The strong female lead turned out to be a really awful actress who's voice (and accent) is painful to listen to. Plus it takes place in Texas - so it is severely conservative. I watched 1/2 of the second episode but decided not to torture myself anymore. I am guessing that it will be cancelled within a few episodes.
5. No Ordinary Family - This show definitely is riding on the heels of Heroes. I guess it is a good thing that I was a super huge fan of Heroes - at least the first season. It is simple yet witty, plus it has a fantastic cast - including The Commish (Michael Chiklis - I know he is known now from The Shield but I've never seen it) and of course, the lovely Julie Benz. The best part of it all was Autumn Reeser! Taylor Townsend from The O.C! The plot is great - and I felt an emotional connection to the family within the first few minutes. I even started to tear up when they were in the plane crash (the one that gives them their extraordinary powers). Definitely has the most potential of all the new shows.
6. Raising Hope - I am not a fan of the whole White trash humor thing - I hated My Name is Earl for this reason (this show is written by the same person). I didn't have great expectations for this show - and I think I was right. The problem is that the critics are loving it - which utterly confuses me. It was already picked up for a full season!? So I keep watching it - I figure that I must be missing something right? I hope it gets better.
7. Running Wilde - The next show on the chopping block and rightly so. It is severely unfunny. I can't really understand why - when you have such talented comedians like David Cross and Will Arnett...so I guess we should blame the writing? I am pretty sure the show will be cancelled soon so I haven't really invested my time in getting to know the characters. It feels like it has a little Dharma & Greg opposites attract story-line, which isn't all that interesting.
8. Blue Bloods - I might have discovered the one and only CBS show that I enjoy. I had no interest in it - knowing only that it is a new cop show that stars Tom Selleck. Then I happened to catch a commercial for it and spotted a very interesting cast. Bridget Moynahan - who is one of the most beautiful women in the world and a very talented actress, Will Estes - JJ from American Dreams and Donnie Wahlberg - Hello! I've only watched the first episode so far - it was decent but it will without a doubt get better. The ending to the episode definitely caught my attention - with the whole mystery surrounding his brothers death. I loved how The Soup made fun of the first minute of the series - it was extremely funny how they set up the show so that you would know who everyone was, what they do for a living and how they are related to each other in the first minute of the show. Hopefully, the writing will become a little less obvious and a little more intelligent. I have high hopes for the series as a whole.
9. Better With You - I absolutely hated the beginning - it was painfully unfunny. It was set up to show the different stages of relationship and of course followed the cliche that the longer that you are married the less you communicate (and the less you have sex). Then something strange happened in the middle of the episode where Ben is giving Casey pointers on meeting the parents - it became quite funny. Plus, who doesn't love Debra Jo Rupp? The second episode was also consistently funny - I would totally live in that firehouse. I wouldn't say it's this year's Modern Family or anything - but at least it is a new comedy that I actually laughed out loud to.
10. My Generation - I guess it is pointless in even writing about this show, considering it is already cancelled - before I even had a chance to blink. It was worthy of cancellation - I just wish I didn't like the cast so much (The kid from Cloverfield, the weird kid from Wedding Crashers, and Jaime King). I feel like it could have gotten better....maybe? I don't know how far they really could have gone with such a ridiculous premise and the worst cliche's and stereotypes in the history of television. It kind of reminded me of October Road - only I liked October Road (it was mediocre writing, but the talent was there). Oh well.
11. The Whole Truth - Very predictable law show - nothing new or exciting. I like the concept that they show the actual truth behind the case, but I don't think that is a new concept - I have definitely seen it before (not sure where). I think that Maura Tierney and Rob Morrow have a great chemistry together and their dialogue is sarcastically witty, but they lack the support from other characters - all of whom are bland. The actual cases need to be a little more intriguing as well - so far I haven't cared about the outcome at all (and I haven't been surprised when the "truth" is revealed).
12. The Event - ok...so I have no idea why this show is being compared to Lost. I guess because it has a little mystery to it? That is about the only similarity. So far there has been zero character development from anyone except Sean Walker (played fantastically by Jason Ritter - who I wish just stayed on Parenthood - I loved his relationship/chemistry with Lauren Graham). There are so many other great actors on the show that are not being utilized. The show is a government conspiracy about a non-human race that exists on Earth. There have been some nice twists (like having the girlfriend's father flying the plane) but for the most part - things have been a little predictable (like when all of the corpses come back to life). I plan to keep watching, so that I guess is a good thing.
13. Nikita - This is the biggest Alias rip-off yet. I guess in theory - the Nikita character came before my dear Sidney Bristow, but I have never seen it before so to me it feels like an Alias rip-off. But the similarities are not just with the character either - the way the show is set up with her trying to "take down" an evil government agency called "division" after they murdered her fiance - they even have an eerily similar voice over explaining her story in the beginning of each episode. Anyway, that being said - ever since Alias ended there has been a giant hole in my tv loving heart. I am trying to convince myself that this show may fill the void (slightly). I am glad to see Shane West, of course you know how much I love Melinda Clark and I am even happy to see Xander Berkely (from 24). I am predicting Lindsy Forsenca will be a star. She is stunning, interesting, emotional and inquisitive - much less vapid than the usual CW starlet. I loved the twist of her character working with Nikita - that was a nice surprise.
14. Hellcats - A show about cheerleaders - I have no idea what exactly peaked my interest. I guess I liked Bring it on, so I figured this might be a fun show. It is obviously cheesy and unnecessarily dramatic but I kind of like that when it is done well (like the new 90210). I am indifferent on Ashley Tisdale - I think she is a bit of an over-actor. I think I am too old to know who the other girl (Aly Michalka) is because apparently she is some big pop star among the tweens. I did read that her sister is Hunter Parrish's girlfriend (soo jealous). Anyway, I don't mind her as an actress but her character is a little troublesome - she is no Eliza Dushku and wearing black doesn't give you an edge. So the show was a little contrived and predictable - I was ready to give up on it but then I spotted Gale Howard! Now I have to keep watching - plus I sort of like watching the cheer leading routines - they are pretty awesome.
4 Reasons I Hated "Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps" - not including the title of the film...
So I expected that "Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps" would be slightly over my head - knowing nothing about the stock market and not remembering the first film at all had me a little worried. However, I didn't expect the film to be the most boring film that I have ever seen. Ever. Here is why I hated it.
1. It wasn't intelligent - It should have gone over my head. Again - I could not tell you the difference between a stock, bond, hedge fund etc. It should have taken me a lot of energy to follow the story. But it didn't. It was dumbed down for a wide (and apparently dumb) audience.
2. It wasn't suspenseful - The plot was ridiculously predictable. Were we ever supposed to believe that Gordon Gekko was not going to screw everyone? There was literally no point at all. There was a lot of talking and a lot of people trying to portray intensity, but not pulling it off. I wouldn't say it was a bad film - I would just say that it was incredibly slow and tedious.
3. To walk out or not - This is what I pondered after the first hour. I checked the time (which I practically never do when I am watching a film - I am usually too invested in the story to get distracted by real world things - like time) and only an hour had past - I thought to myself, is it really necessary for me to sit in this theater for another an hour at least? I wiggled in my chair uncomfortably for another 1/2 hour and looked again. It seriously felt like torture.
4. Shia and company - Shia is a pretty decent young actor - but he has something bigger than acting talent. He has on screen charisma. This special and rare talent was completely ignored and stripped away to create ultimately a character that you have no sympathy for nor do you care about his relationship with his emotionally unstable girlfriend - I am not sure if she was supposed to be a complete nut job or not. She was practically crying in ever scene she appeared in and seemed to blame her whole unfulfilled existence on her "daddy issues". I think she needs to spend some time institutionalized. I think Michael Douglas did a decent job - nothing spectacular. The part that I hated the most was the appearance of Charlie Sheen. I don't know how I missed the fact that he had a cameo - because I usually try my best to avoid supporting a guy who admittedly beat his wife (as should the rest of America - seriously this guy is the highest paid television actor, his show is the number one comedy on television and he plead GUILTY to practically killing his wife. What does this say about us as a nation?). It was my breaking point for me to completely hate this film.
1. It wasn't intelligent - It should have gone over my head. Again - I could not tell you the difference between a stock, bond, hedge fund etc. It should have taken me a lot of energy to follow the story. But it didn't. It was dumbed down for a wide (and apparently dumb) audience.
2. It wasn't suspenseful - The plot was ridiculously predictable. Were we ever supposed to believe that Gordon Gekko was not going to screw everyone? There was literally no point at all. There was a lot of talking and a lot of people trying to portray intensity, but not pulling it off. I wouldn't say it was a bad film - I would just say that it was incredibly slow and tedious.
3. To walk out or not - This is what I pondered after the first hour. I checked the time (which I practically never do when I am watching a film - I am usually too invested in the story to get distracted by real world things - like time) and only an hour had past - I thought to myself, is it really necessary for me to sit in this theater for another an hour at least? I wiggled in my chair uncomfortably for another 1/2 hour and looked again. It seriously felt like torture.
4. Shia and company - Shia is a pretty decent young actor - but he has something bigger than acting talent. He has on screen charisma. This special and rare talent was completely ignored and stripped away to create ultimately a character that you have no sympathy for nor do you care about his relationship with his emotionally unstable girlfriend - I am not sure if she was supposed to be a complete nut job or not. She was practically crying in ever scene she appeared in and seemed to blame her whole unfulfilled existence on her "daddy issues". I think she needs to spend some time institutionalized. I think Michael Douglas did a decent job - nothing spectacular. The part that I hated the most was the appearance of Charlie Sheen. I don't know how I missed the fact that he had a cameo - because I usually try my best to avoid supporting a guy who admittedly beat his wife (as should the rest of America - seriously this guy is the highest paid television actor, his show is the number one comedy on television and he plead GUILTY to practically killing his wife. What does this say about us as a nation?). It was my breaking point for me to completely hate this film.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
The First 3 Episodes of "Glee".
1. Audition -
- Finn - I don't quite know when it happened...but I am totally in love with Finn Hudson. He is now my favorite character (I think it happened at the end of last season with Theatricality), but looking back - I enjoy that he is the character that has the most potential to grow. He started out as a "blank slate" type character, but now he is complicated and a very realistic teenage boy. In this episode he still uses the wrong words (like "controllist") and still is incredibly awkward (and tall...and hot) - his try-out for The Cheerios was one of the greatest things I've ever seen. But then he shows how much he has grown by his profound statement that "being gay isn't a handicap" - well incredibly profound for him anyway. I am looking forward to more growth for this character.
- The new kids - I am really liking the Sam character - at first I assumed (as did everyone) that he would eventually be Kurt's new love interest, but as the episode progressed - I realized that he would be more of a competition for Finn. He has an amazing voice (his version of Billionaire actually made me like the song), he has that whole sexy yet innocent appearance (and an uncanny resemblance to Justin from Queer As Folk) and he took Finn's position on the football team. How will Finn react - so far he thinks he's awesome...but I see envy and jealousy in his future. I am satisfied with Sunshine - although her character fell flat, her voice is one of the few that can compete with Lea Michele. Coach Beiste ("it's French") is a perfect addition to the faculty - her and Sue butting heads is sure to be monumental.
- The other highlights - Their performance of New York was perfect.... "The other Asian" (a.k.a Mike Chang) finally has a role in the show besides showing off his smooth moves.... Rachel speaking louder because she assumes Sunshine doesn't speak English...
- Brittany - Brittany's body is INSANE. Her dancing is RIDICULOUS. Her singing is...um not so great. I'm thinking she should stick to back-up dancer who spews out the greatest one liners of the show.
- Britney - I appreciate that Glee wanted to dedicate an episode to the great Britney Spears, but it didn't turn out as organic as the previous themed episodes. Having everyone drugged up and hallucinating that they are in a Britney Spears video was just a little...easy. I enjoy the performances more when they relate to the story (like the way Stronger did). Also, I could have done without the Britney cameos....the girl can't act - let's stop pretending like she can.
- The low lights - Overall, I'm not a huge of this episode -but even the worst Glee episode is better than 90% of what is on television. There were some disappointing aspects to this episode - Finn and Rachel were terrible. Rachel comparing her dressing like a sexualized adolescent to Finn wanting to be back on the football team was unbearable - and for her to ask him to give up on something he loves for her is unforgivable. I understand she is controlling, but supposedly she is the one that "knows" Finn the best - she should understand his needs. And speaking of Rachel - Hit Me Baby One More Time is perhaps a great pop song, but coming from the powerful voice of Lea Michele - it was almost hard to listen to. That song is beneath her talent. The pervy kid with the "Jewish cloud hair" was also unnecessarily disgusting and not funny.
- Finn - Proving my above statement, Finn shines in this episode. I love the beginning sequence when he discovers the "Grilled Cheesus" and suddenly finds God. He uses his new found discovery to "pray" which is really just him wishing for things....like winning a football game, then getting to touch Rachel's boob. He is completely self-absorbed (like a real 16 year old male) - well not completely, he does want to win the game because it would "mean so much to Artie"...I'm not sure I buy that. Then when Kurt's father has a heart attack - he still chooses to use his "power" for selfish reasons. This is a powerful statement about religion in my opinion - does Finn really believe in a higher power? or does he just like the distraction? Because if he really believed that he had this direct line to God - he would surely use this to save his surrogate father. Towards the end when Emma confirms to Finn (what he already subconsciously knew) that this special power was just in fact a string of coincidences he is torn apart. His performance of Losing My Religion was perfectly angsty for the occasion ( I've read a lot of negative things about his version of this song - that I do not agree with. I realize that Finn doesn't have the greatest voice - which HELLO this is part of the show - that he isn't a trained vocalist, he sort of just fell into the Glee Club and realized he enjoys it. However, I enjoy most of his solos - I think the creators do a good job at picking songs that fit his voice and personality).
- Atheism - So, we learn that Kurt and Sue are both Atheists. Kurt - a proud and out gay teenager who wouldn't be welcomed in most religions anyway and Sue - a woman who is constantly bringing others down due to a life full of disappointments. I appreciate that the show provides this as a viable option with regards to religion - but it just didn't quite sit well in my stomach. I am an Atheist - not because I prayed to God as a child and was ignored and not because most religions look down on women. I am an Atheist - not because I don't believe in anything. It's quite the opposite really. I have FAITH. I have faith in humanity, faith in science, faith in love, faith in the power of equality, faith in justice - I could go on but I think you get my point. I think as a whole Atheists are a positive thinking group - counting on the fact that humans are inherently good and moral, but realistic enough to know that that isn't always 100% true. Also, as an Atheist I would never preach to someone that what they believe is not true or inferior to my beliefs - I celebrate the differences in the human race. I wouldn't want to be a part of a world where everyone thinks and believes in the same thing - we would never learn or grow (and we would not survive). Glee deserves a standing O for embracing such a polarizing topic - I just wish I wasn't represented as the voice of dissent.
- The Reactions - I love the scene where Finn has an announcement (queue Puck "Oh my God - he's coming out.) - that he wants the Glee club to dedicate songs to Jesus. The reactions he received were priceless. From Kurt preaching that the church doesn't recognize gays, women or science to Puck stating that "I am a total Jew for Jesus. He's my number one Heb" to Rachel's look of horror to Brittany announcing that whenever she prays she "falls asleep". It was a perfectly scripted scene.
- What could have been - As much as I liked the episode, I can't help but think that they missed out on a big story - Finn. To be more precise - Finn's mother. There was only one very short scene where his mother is in the hospital (and I don't even think she had a line) and one scene that shows Finn upset about Burt (but actually he was only upset that he had to hear it from other people). Don't get me wrong - I understand that the episode was about Kurt and his relationship with his dad. I burst into tears when he sang I Wanna Hold Your Hand - with the flashback of the tea party - seriously I was bawling. I just think it would have been emotional to see Finn's mother react to news that another man she loves is on the brink of death. I also think they would have pulled Finn out of school along with Kurt - and I am pretty sure Kurt would not go back to school while his father was in critical condition.
- Other highlights - oh there are so many....Finn's 1st prayer (Dear Grilled Cheesus, First of all you're super delicious...)...Brittany comparing herself to Miley....Sue calling Santana "Jugs the Clown"...Sue's moment with her sister at the end...Rachel and Finn awkwardly making out (oh and Finn's reaction to Rachel's revelation that she will be ready to have intercourse when she is 25)...Rachel singing Papa Can You Hear Me?. Truly a beautiful episode.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
3 DVD's You Shouldn't Waste Your Time Watching
1. Killers - Seriously, how does a film like this get made? The plot (if that's what you want to call it) was absolutely ridiculous - and the ending that somehow tried to recover from the implausible story just made it worse. If you're going to create a plot that doesn't make sense at least give it a 100%, don't wimp out. The acting was horrifying. Ashton Kutcher is sadly, laughable. I feel bad for him - I like him as a celebrity. He seems genuinely funny, charming and has a good business sense (yes, I am ignoring that horrid modeling show that was canceled after 1 episode last year). So what should Ashton do? I have no idea - but I can say definitively: He should quit acting (in films at least). He has absolutely zero chemistry with Katherine Heigl. This isn't necessarily their fault - there are many obstacles. The writing is a huge obstacle (they bond over "not puking in public" - how romantic?). The second obstacle is that the plot moves too quickly for the audience to relate to them as a couple. The third obstacle is that Katherine plays a very unlikeable woman. She is vapid and self-absorbed - claiming herself to be uncool for vacationing with her parents, then bragging about how her daddy will buy her an expensive dress (and then proceeds to rip the dress). Why would we ever root for this girl to be happy?
2. Repo Men - Let me for a second tell you how much I love Jude Law, as I don't think I have written about him yet. I am a huge fan - I fell in love with him in Music From Another Room - a film that I am sure no one has ever even heard of. Then again in eXistenZ - again no one has ever heard of it. I was so happy that he finally "made it" with his performance in The Talented Mr. Ripley. Then came 2004 - when he over-extended himself and appeared in 6 films (including one of my favorites - I Heart Huckabees) and became "over-rated" (never my opinion). He is also incredibly sexy - even with the receding hairline. I was excited for this film, not only for Jude - but also for the other actors (Liev Schreiber, Forest Whitaker and Alice Braga) and the plot, which seemed interesting. So, it's about organ transplants (artificial organs) and the industry that is behind these transplants. Basically, if you cant afford your payments on you new organs - then they will be repossessed (in a very gory way). I guess it is supposed to have some social commentary behind it but it didn't really have anything interesting to say. It was boring and meaningless. It tried to be funny at times - but wasn't. It tried to be suspenseful at times - but was predictable instead. Then the ending was insane - it didn't even try to make sense. *spoiler alert* Why on earth would you almost kill your best friend just so you can keep working together? What if he died? It was twisted and not in the fantastic sort of way. However, Jude was still sexy - so it's not a complete failure.
Cop Out - There is not much to write about this film. The only reason I saw this film is because a co-worker of mine was an extra in it (sadly, I could not find her anywhere in the film), but she insisted that it was funny. The only reason I sort of believed her is because Adam Brody is in it. He is fantastically funny - just not in this film. Tracey Morgan is always painful as is Seann William Scott (who hasn't been funny since Dude, Where's My Car). The film was predictable, irritating and pointless. And they should have kept the original title: A Couple of Dicks. At least it would have had a funny title.
2. Repo Men - Let me for a second tell you how much I love Jude Law, as I don't think I have written about him yet. I am a huge fan - I fell in love with him in Music From Another Room - a film that I am sure no one has ever even heard of. Then again in eXistenZ - again no one has ever heard of it. I was so happy that he finally "made it" with his performance in The Talented Mr. Ripley. Then came 2004 - when he over-extended himself and appeared in 6 films (including one of my favorites - I Heart Huckabees) and became "over-rated" (never my opinion). He is also incredibly sexy - even with the receding hairline. I was excited for this film, not only for Jude - but also for the other actors (Liev Schreiber, Forest Whitaker and Alice Braga) and the plot, which seemed interesting. So, it's about organ transplants (artificial organs) and the industry that is behind these transplants. Basically, if you cant afford your payments on you new organs - then they will be repossessed (in a very gory way). I guess it is supposed to have some social commentary behind it but it didn't really have anything interesting to say. It was boring and meaningless. It tried to be funny at times - but wasn't. It tried to be suspenseful at times - but was predictable instead. Then the ending was insane - it didn't even try to make sense. *spoiler alert* Why on earth would you almost kill your best friend just so you can keep working together? What if he died? It was twisted and not in the fantastic sort of way. However, Jude was still sexy - so it's not a complete failure.
Cop Out - There is not much to write about this film. The only reason I saw this film is because a co-worker of mine was an extra in it (sadly, I could not find her anywhere in the film), but she insisted that it was funny. The only reason I sort of believed her is because Adam Brody is in it. He is fantastically funny - just not in this film. Tracey Morgan is always painful as is Seann William Scott (who hasn't been funny since Dude, Where's My Car). The film was predictable, irritating and pointless. And they should have kept the original title: A Couple of Dicks. At least it would have had a funny title.
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