Mid-Season Review: My Thoughts on 6 TV Shows

So we are about 1/2 way through the current television season and I just wanted to share my thoughts on some of my favorite shows - some exceed expectation, while others disappoint...

1. The Vampire Diaries -From my previous posts you know that TVD was my second favorite new show last season (following very closely behind Glee). Well, luckily season 2 is still going strong. The dialogue is still witty, the pace is still blink and you'll miss it, the plot is twisted and surprising and the characters become more complicated with every episode. So much has happened already - it is almost hard to process. Seriously, in one episode Damon snaps Jeremy's neck (and we discover that Jeremy is now immortal - with the help of a special ring. However, the question remains whether Damon knew this before he "killed" him with such ease) and Caroline is turned into a vampire (kudos to Candice Accola for her heartbreaking portrayal of this transformation). Other major plot points that have occurred during this season already: Mason (Tyler's Uncle - played by the super hot Taylor Kinney - score another point for the amazing casting director) comes to town and reveals that he is a werewolf - then gets his heart ripped out (literally). Tyler then accidentally kills someone (causing his own werewolf transformation - again kudos to Michael Trevino for that scene - amazing). Katherine is back - revealing her big secret - she never loved Damon (ouch that must hurt) AND she is actually still in love with Stefan (I still don't buy it) and is now officially locked in the tomb that she was originally supposed to be locked in. There is the mysterious "moonstone" which holds the key to vampires being able to wonder around in the daylight (and I think werewolves turning on non-full moon nights...right?). oh and Elena and Stefan pretended to break up then they really broke up. There is a bunch more but I think you get the point - it doesn't let up. I don't think there has been a boring episode yet. Another highlight for me is Nina Dobrev fantastically portraying both Elena and Katherine effortlessly allowing for believable "doppelganger hi jinks." I love that in the Masquerade episode they point out the obvious (Katherine has curly hair, while Elena's is straight). They also consistently infuse the show with humor like when Stefan tries to be funny by saying that the Lockwoods could be "ninja turtles" or when Caroline remembers what a dick Damon is and tells him "you suck". The biggest compliment that I could give this series is that it finally fills the void that Buffy the Vampire Slayer left behind. (side-note: As hot as Paul Wesley is, I am worried for his health....he would be just as hot with just a little bit of meat on his bones)

2. Community - The absurdity continues. Let's see...where do I begin? First, there was an episode that revolved around our favorite college study group getting trapped in a KFC space machine. Then, the Halloween episode was about zombies. No really - everyone turned into zombies. Oh - next came a very solid episode when they searched every one's bag (and souls) for Annie's missing pen. Top all that off with one of the most genius 30 minutes of television ever - a stop motion animation Christmas themed episode (sure to be a television classic). Besides the absurd plots - there is also consistent, reflexive and hilarious dialogue. Soooo many quotable lines I don't know how to narrow down my favorites but I will try:

*Police Officer: Fact: In 100% of all fake gun shootings, the victim is always the one with the fake gun.

*Shirley: Jeff, you don't have a bag?
Jeff: I could never deprive the world of the portion of my chest the strap would cover.

*Abed: Troy, make me proud. Be the first black man to make it to the end.

*Britta: Guys go home and make socks with your name on it.
Annie: If a guy wants to make a puppet of me, that's hardly your concern.

3. Desperate Housewives - this show should officially be cancelled. It is on it's 7th season and it had a good run. It used to be one of my favorites, but it gets worse and worse every year. I loved a few years ago when they jumped the show forward (although a tired plot device - it infused a whole new dynamic into the series) but it is already getting stale - the show needs something "big" in order to thrive again (and not tornado big). Who really wants to see Terri Hatcher cleaning in lingerie? Seriously...who? And the whole "feel bad for me because I am poor" would be a great twist to her character if it were true. Being on a budget doesn't make you poor it makes you normal. And did you see the "horrible" apartment she lived in? And the furniture? Not exactly the Ikea discounted furniture that actual poor people would be grateful for. I'm not really a fan of Vanessa Williams (she over-acts) and I am not really feeling her arrival on the show. In my opinion subtle bitches are more effective than loud and obnoxious ones (like Dana Delany). I hate that she had an affair with Lynette's husband (Tom - love him!) because it is completely out of character for him. I know it is mean but I find the relationship between Bree and Brian Austin Greene to be completely unbelievable. They have zero chemistry (and the fact that in reality he is banging the hottest woman on the planet makes it a little hard to believe he would find Bree hot – just sayin'). The Felicia Tillman/Paul Young plot is an interesting storyline to bring back – but so far it has been predictable – of course his new wife was Felicia’s daughter. Did that really surprise anyone? The only interesting storyline is the switched at birth story – how awful would that actually be. Especially when you see more of yourself in your actual daughter than the one you have been raising. It is heartbreaking to watch and I have to give credit to Eva for her performance this season. Overall - just another disappointing season so far.

4. Modern Family - Did anyone else notice the weird coincidences between Modern Family and its biggest award show competitor Glee? First, they did a show about religion the same week Glee did. Then they did a flash mob mall scene (which Glee did last year) using the 90's En Vogue song Free Your Mind (which Glee did a mash-up of in the same week this episode aired). WEIRD. Anyway, that being said...I still enjoy this show. It keeps me laughing every week. The kids have really shined this season- especially Luke (who is actually a genius in real life - which makes him even more hilarious). I loved when he avoids getting hurt during the earthquake but then walks into a wall. I also cried when Luke admits he would choose to live with his dad if his parents divorced - his reason "he would need me more". OMG. Heart breaking. I also loved the flash mob scene (although stale) only because Mitchell killed it, while Cam painfully tried to dance along. Favorite quote so far? It’s like they say…sometimes, when God closes a door, he closes it so hard that your wife can’t get out.- Phil.

5. Fringe - Season 3 of Fringe has been FAN-freakin'-TASTIC. It is exactly what JJ shows do best – reinvent themselves. We are fully thrown into the alternate universe that the season 1 finale introduced us to. I love Altivia (or Fauxlivia if you prefer...). I love that John Noble is just as fantastic at not being crazy (his alter ego is completely sane). I love that they got Pacey and Altivia together (I hated the thought of Pacey and Olivia together because I love their brother/sister relationship that they have) but it works now because it’s not really the true Olivia. And now that Olivia returned to her correct universe – her relationship with Pacey is officially tainted (I mean he had sex with someone that is exactly like her but not her). This show has truly become the next Lost. It is the only show on television that you actually have to pay close attention to. Two universes are literally at war with each other – how much more epic can you get right? I got chills when Pacey receives the phone call telling him that the woman in his bed is not really Olivia. I love how he outwits Altivia in the end. Joshua Jackson has done a fantastic job in the most recent episodes, expressing the pain he is in for making such an egregious error (a perfectly acceptable yet unforgivable error). He has created a very solid character - I might have to stop calling him Pacey and learn his characters actual name (Will? John? I have no idea...). It still continues to focus on "fringe" cases while keeping the bigger picture in the background - like with the super creepy "Marionette" episode. It also continues to be eerily similar to Alias - the pieces that have to be put together (the vacuum device thing) is reminiscent of the Rombaldi device. Should I start looking for the number 47? I am broken hearted that the show has been moved to Friday nights and that it was ignored by the Golden Globes. If this show gets cancelled I will seriously throw an all out hissy fit.

6. Gossip Girl - Another show that has had its day. Time to move on. It has been nothing but predictable. Does anyone believe a thing that comes out of Georgina's mouth? Of course that baby wasn't Dan's! Although he did have the funniest line of the season so far (Do you know how hard it is to keep a baby alive?!). I am happy they got rid of raccoon eyes (Jenny used to be such a great character!) but then they kept bringing her back for random revenge plots. I am not a Katie Cassidy fan (she sucked on the reboot of Melrose Place) but she was better on this show. I was intrigued by her mysterious plot - but then they just dragged it out for fooooorrreevverr. It became mind numbing and pointless. And there was zero payoff. I enjoyed Chuck being nice for all of 2 seconds - but I am happy it didn't last. They should just cancel the show and do a Chuck and Blaire spin-off. Speaking of Blaire....are they seriously going to hook up her and DAN? For reals? She can do better.

4 Reasons Why "Jonah Hex" is On My "Worst Films of 2010" List

With the good come the bad - directly after watching "The Kids are Alright," I watched the horrible film "Jonah Hex". It was pointless, boring and unoriginal. Here is why it is added to my "worst of" list:

1. The story - Another graphic novel turned action film. Another super-hero story told in a dark film noir style. Another lame attempt at creating an original film (the only thing that made it different was that it was turned into a western). The plot was that our "hero" is trying to get revenge on "the bad guy" that killed his family. But the hero isn't exactly likable and we don't really know much about him (other than he has a "special" relationship with a prostitute). Creating a film where we are alienated from our main character creates the biggest problem of all - it isn't accessible.

2. Megan Fox - I love her - not just because she is hot (I actually think she has potential to be a great actress). She was perfect for her role in both Transformers films and she nailed her role in Jennifer's Body (a film that I actually liked). This film is a disaster, but Megan is hardly to blame. She did a respectable job. The only problem with her in this film is that she is way too skinny for this role - her corset barely fit her (instead of seeing cleavage we see rib cage). What happened to her?

3. The rest of the cast - While I am usually a Josh Brolin fan - he did nothing special in this film (except make me not care about his character at all...). There were some awesome people in this film that had very little to do like Michael Shannon, Lance Reddick and Aidan Quinn - blink and you will miss them.

4. It felt long - The film was only an hour and twenty minutes yet it felt like forever. It just kept dragging on and on. It was repetitive and linear and just plain uneventful. They could have added a little humor to make it watchable.

3 Reasons "The Kids Are Alright" is One of My Favorite Films of 2010

Woohoo! Another great film from 2010! It became so rare that I feel like celebrating every time I find one. "The Kids are Alright" was a beautiful, well-acted and unique family drama that was entertaining from beginning to end. Here is why it was added to my "Best of" list.

1. It wasn't what I expected at all - I'm not really sure what I was expecting. Originally, I though it was a lesbian drama, then it was nominated as a "comedy" for the Golden Globes so I had no idea what I was in for. Luckily, it was neither. It was a family drama (with some comedic moments) about the obstacles that couples face when trying to raise kids and maintain a healthy relationship. It was also a reminder that the unconventional family has now become "normal". It has a simple message that "life is complicated" and that "people make mistakes" without being cheesy or preachy.

2. The story - It is a story that hasn't been told before. The catalyst for the plot is that our couple used donated sperm to start their family. The kids are now practically adults and find their "father". He decides that he wants to be part of these kids lives which creates an entirely new family dynamic (some other surprising things happen as well - but I don't want to ruin it). It was original, yet simple.

3. The acting - Annette Benning killed it. Seriously, her role was a very difficult one - a borderline alcoholic who is somewhat controlling and uptight, yet her world is turned upside down- so in order for the film to work we must sympathize with her (which I did - I totally felt her pain). Julianne Moore also did a great job at a very different role for her (sort of a flaky and misguided character). Mark Ruffalo is always lovable and I really think Josh Hutcherson is a great, young up and coming actor (he was the super adorable kid in Bridge to Terabithea now a mature young adult choosing complicated material - I am excited to see where his career takes him). All of the actors played their roles with heart and subtlety - they all felt like "real" people. Oscar nominations all around!!!

3 New Shows to Watch

It's that time of year again - television mid-season time. While I mostly look forward to returning shows (like "Southland", "Parks & Recreation" "V" & "Archer"), there are also a few new shows that I will be watching (I cut back to 3 due to the fact that I have too much television to watch already!! So while "The Cape", "Body of Proof", "Fairly Legal" and "Off the Map" all look interesting...I just simply don't have the time right now).

1. Perfect Couples - 1/20 - Sure...it's been done before (and poorly), but someone's got to get it right eventually right? The show is a comedy about the lives and relationships of 3 different couples which if done well could be the next Friends (I contend that we have found the next Friends - it's called Cougar Town). It is also sort of like the new show Better With You except that show is 3 different generations of couples within the same family. I am most excited by the cast - mostly unknowns but I really liked Christine Woods on Flash/Forward and am glad she found another job. I also like Hayes MacArther (I met him once - decent guy) and Olivia Munn is really funny (and gorgeous!).

2. Mr. Sunshine - 2/9- Yeah Matthew Perry! I heart him! I watched Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip just for him (and Sarah Paulson - super adorable). I have no idea what this show is about...something about sports right? Not exactly my forte - however one of my all time favorite shows is Sports Night - (HELLO Peter Krause, Josh Charles & Felicity Huffman in one show!!!) So if this show is anything like that then count me in!

3. Skins - 1/17 - So BBC Skins is a fantastic show - Seriously utterly brilliant television. I am convinced that an American version will suck (maybe if it was on Showtime and not MTV it might have a shot of being decent, yet look at the reviews for their remake of Shameless (again a genius BBC show) - I have read nothing but bad things). I will watch the first few episodes for myself just so I have proof when I claim how awful it is. I am also awaiting the uproar from various parental and political groups when they realize how scandalous it is (if they follow in the original's footsteps - just imagine Gossip Girl times 100 - sex, drugs and lots of alcohol leads to lots of bad behavior). Let the fun begin....

2010: 8 Best Films & 13 Worst Films of the Year

2010 is finally over - and it is officially the worst year in films that I can remember. I struggled to come up with films that I considered "the best" and I could not even think of a solid 10 (8 is the best I could do - however I still have to see several films like "The King's Speech", "The Social Network", "The Ghost Writer", "Biutiful" and "Blue Valentine"). My worst list suffered the opposite problem - I couldn't narrow it down but stopped myself at 13 (I am sure I could think of more awfulness if I tried really hard). So here it is:

BEST:

1. Black Swan
2. The Town
3. Easy A
4. Inception
5. The Kids are Alright (a review will post soon...)
6. The Other Guys
7. Scott Pilgrim Vs the World
8. It's Kind of a Funny Story

WORST:

1. Leap Year
2. Clash of the Titans
3. Valentine's Day
4. Jonah Hex (a review will post soon...)
5. Wall Street 2: Money Never Sleeps
6. Salt
7. Alice in Wonderland
8. Macgruber
9. Killers
10. Splice
11. When in Rome
12. Chloe
13. Repo Men

If you are curious as to why I chose these films, just check out my previous posts - reviews on all of these films can be found ; )

4 Reasons I Need to Apologize to the Creators of "Scott Pilgrim Vs the World"

In June I wrote a post about how 2010 summer films suck - describing "Scott Pilgrim Vs the World" as a film that "looks absolutely awful" (along with "Jonah Hex", "Piranha 3D" and "The Sorcerer's Apprentice"). I willfully admit that I was wrong - I finally watched it over the weekend and it is far from awful. It will actually be listed among my favorites of 2010 - here is why:

1. It is Innovative - so I am sort of sick of the whole comic book film genre (or graphic novel film genre if you prefer)- they are all starting to look the same. But this film took a comic book film and twisted it with a video game. It felt exciting and new - I was invested in the film for the entire 2 hours because I was fascinated by its creativeness. It is surreal and escapist but it was also really intelligent - you had to actually pay attention in order to "get" the jokes and follow the story. I think the film really won me over with the Seinfeld skit (complete with annoying laugh track) - It was pure genius. Yes, it was also pretentious and had a whole "too cool for school attitude" - but for me it just worked. Really well. I remember seeing the trailer for the film a few times and thinking that it just looked weird and boring - the dialogue was awkward and not funny. It is surprising how completely different the film is from the trailer. They should totally fire the person responsible for creating such an unappealing trailer for such an awesome film.

2. The Story - If you strip away all of the visual effects, hipster dialogue and indie rock music you have a pretty simple love story. Basically, it is about this girl who is emotionally abused by her controlling boyfriend - so she decides to leave him, but he has the whole "if I can't have her than no one can" mentality and sets up an elaborate plot to keep away potential suitors. Scott Pilgrim (our protagonist) falls in love with her and decides to do whatever it takes to win her heart. It's compelling and heartfelt, even without all of the other stuff (sort of like another favorite of mine - 500 Days of Summer).

3. The Cast - I feel like the trailer that I saw focused on Michael Cera and a lot of other people that I didn't recognize. Yet, the film had a fantastic supporting cast - Kieran Culkin (if you don't think he is hysterical in this film - then there is something wrong with you), Anna Kendrick, Aubrey Plaza, Mae Whitman (love all 3 of them!), Jason Schwartzman and a surprisingly funny appearance by Brandon Routh (he had the most hilarious part - with the whole Vegan police). Michael Cera is forgiven for his trilogy of crappy films (Year One, Paper Heart & Year in Revolt) - I adored watching him kick some evil ex ass. I felt like he grew up a little bit too - not as awkward and pathetic as usual.

4. It's Quotable - I seriously died several times from laughing so hard. The lines that stick in my head from the first viewing are: "They make movies in Toronto?", "Bread makes you fat?!!" and "I wanna have his adopted babies." I am smiling just thinking about it.

"Glee" Season 1: 35 Best Quotes

Besides the amazing performances, "Glee" is also memorable for it's solid one-liners. Here are my favorite "Glee" quotes from season 1. It was very hard to choose from such consistently amazing dialogue. Most of the hilarious zingers belong to either Sue or Brittany so I did my best to choose quotes that highlight all of the amazing characters.

1. You know how every time you ask me out I have my period?…or I tell you I suffer from cluster headaches?…or I am allergic to night time? Those things…not really true. – Emma to Ken (who just can't take a hint).

2. You’re very talented. I would know…I’m very talented too. – Rachel to Finn

3. This is where our daughter or gay son will sleep. – Terri trying to convince Will to buy an over priced house.

4. You’re not trying hard enough. At what? At walking. – Dakota Stanley explaining to Artie why he can't be in the Glee club.

5. I got it from the Library. Did you know you can just borrow books from there? Finn learning new things.

6. I slept with you because you got me drunk on wine coolers and I felt fat that day. Quinn to Puck on why she got knocked up.

7. 3 times a day. Or your baby will be ugly – Terri giving Quinn prenatal vitamins.

8. That Wheelchair kid’s right. That Rachel chick makes me want to light myself on fire, but she can sing. – Puck

9. Santana! Wheels! Gay Kid! Come on move it!! Asian! Other Asian. Aretha. And Shaft. See Will, I don’t want to participate in a group that ignores the needs of minority students. – Sue roll calling all of the minority kids in Glee club.

10. Well you’re irritating most of the time – but don’t take that personally. – Artie to Rachel after she tells him he shouldn't take things personally.

11. I don’t know why I find his stupidity charming – I mean he is cheating off a girl who thinks the square root of 4 is rainbows. – Kurt describing his crush on Finn

12. Rachel somehow manages to dress like a grandmother and a toddler at the same time. – Kurt

13. I’m gonna say this as nicely as I possibly can, but you look like a sad clown…hooker. – Finn to Rachel after she dresses up like Sandy from Grease to seduce Finn.

14. And what if I were to just innocently murder you, Will? I’d still have to go to trial. Probably get off on justifiable homicide. – Sue being classic Sue.

15. Does this have to happen tonight? Because… I have my fight club. - Puck being classic Puck

16. I’m not breaking up with you. I’m just saying please stop super-sizing… ‘cause I don’t dig on fat chicks – Puck to a pregnant Quinn.

17. Now that we’re sorta dating…I have to work so much harder to pretend to be listening to her. – Finn having a hard time dating Rachel.

18. I’ll tell you who you are. You’re a scared little boy. You’re afraid of dating me because you think it might hurt your reputation…though, which you’d never admit it, is very important to you. You hate what Quinn did to you, not just because it hurt but because it was so humiliating… I just see you for who you are…unlike you who can only see me…as this silly girl who made a fool out of herself in her first Glee Club rehearsal. And that’s where you lose Finn- because if you took a second look you’d realize that I’m the only person in your life who knows you…and accepts you for who you are. No matter what. – Rachel to Finn after he dumps her.

19. Let us give you an introduction into the way that we work: You buy us dinner, and we make out in front of you. It’s like the best deal ever. – Santana's proposition to Finn

20. Did you know that dolphins are just gay sharks? – Brittany's moment of genius.

21. Look I even circled some dates on your crazy calendar. – Finn trying to win Rachel back.

22. Would you please stop talking? You’re grossing out my baby – Quinn trying to get Rachel to stop talking about sex.

23. Look Finn…It’s high time you’ve lost the big “V”, everything about you screams virgin. You’re about as sexy as a cabbage patch kid. It’s exhausting to look at you. – Santana (bonus for calling him "Finnocence").

24. Maybe you should try a new setting on your flowbie. Oh snap! – Will finally coming up with a good comeback to Sue's harassment.

25. My eyes are up here! I am a person with feelings! Get out of my grill! I am a powerful woman and my growing feminism will cut you in half like a righteous blade of equality! – Tina to Artie (after he treats her like crap).

26. How do you two not have a show on Bravo? – Sue to Kurt & Mercedes

27. I’m pretty sure my cat has been reading my diary – Brittany

28. I love your mom. She’s like this angel that came down to wake me up after all these years…and I swear to you I will never hurt her. I will always take care of her. I can’t be your dad, but I will be her hero…for as long as she’ll take me. - Burt Hummel (many of his heartbreaking quotes) to Finn.

29. So you like show tunes. It doesn’t mean you’re gay…it just means you’re awful – Sue to Kurt

30. I am my voice. I am like Tinkerbell, Finn….I need applause to live.- Rachel perfectly describing herself.

31. You look terrible. I look awesome - Brittany to Rachel on their respective Lady Gaga outfits.

32. Yeah, that’s because you’re 16 and you still assume the best in people. You live a few years, you start seeing the hate in people’s hearts. – Burt to Kurt after he said it was o.k that Finn used the "f" word.

33. I’m proud to be different. It’s the best thing about me. – Kurt

34. You never listen to my clearly superior ideas – Jesse on why he left the New Directions.

35. You know what Wednesday is right?...Hump day – Will hilariously trying to seduce Sue.

"Glee" Season 1: 17 Best Performances

Since it will be a while until we get new "Glee" episodes, I have been re-watching season 1 hoping it will hold me over until Feb. Luckily, the first season of "Glee" was near perfect - especially for a freshman series. I can literally watch it on repeat for hours and still be entertained. The reason "Glee" season 1 was so special that it was refreshing and groundbreaking- it was like nothing else on television. I think season 2 can be seen as disappointing because it is hard to stay "new". There were so many memorable performances in season 1 that I think they don't know how to top themselves (therefore they go a bit overboard- i.e the Britney episode). Here are the performances that made season 1 such an achievement:

1. Push It (performed by the New Directions) - I remember when this first aired I could not stop laughing. It was amazingly inappropriate, yet hysterical. From Rachel's dirty dancing, to Kurt's crotch thrusts and slapping Finn on the ass, to Emma's supportive dancing in the audience, to everyone else's shocked reactions - it was a perfect scene. Plus, this was the first time we get to see the energy of our favorite Glee club. We knew Rachel could sing, we didn't know she could rap! We knew Finn was awkward, we didn't know he was thaaat awkward! Calling the performance offensive would be an understatement, as would calling the performance anything less than perfect.

2. Dancing With Myself (performed by Artie) - This is the first time Glee made me cry. And by cry I mean bawl hysterically. First, I love Artie's voice - it's soulful and distinctive. Second, his wheeling through the halls watching his classmates living a "normal" life was intimate and beautiful. Third, it is a perfect song for him to sing (this was back when the Glee performances went with the story lines - instead of the top 40 trend that season 2 is obsessed with). Artie is often left in the corner of the Glee performances while the others dance center stage. The song just emphasises the pain he feels on a daily basis. And Last, when is the last time you've seen a kid in a wheelchair have a major plot line on network television? Um never. That is why Glee deserves the accolades it gets - it broke barriers (and continues to). Also, this song leads Will to discover a genius idea - confine the Glee kids to wheelchairs. Hilarious.

3. Rain on My Parade (performed by Rachel) - Rachel can do Barbara Streisand almost as good as Barbara can. Her voice is powerful, her passion is evident and she simply glowed in that spotlight. This was performed at sectionals as a last minute decision (after the other clubs stole their set list) along with The New Directions performance of You Can't Always Get What You Want. It's almost sad to think about the disappointing performance we endured during this season's sectionals (Ken and Barbie apathetically singing Time of My Life). Season 1 sectionals definitely kicked season 2's ass.

4. Like a Virgin (performed by Will/Emma, Rachel/Jesse, Finn/Santana) - Besides the obvious challenge in the production of this performance (the editing must have been a nightmare - but was brilliantly done), I loved the way this song fit the episode. Emma, Rachel & Finn all decide to lose the big "V" - even though all 3 are weary of this decision. Finn and Santana are hot together (which came as a surprise), this scene alone is why I am sort of rooting for them in season 2 (although I am a bit weary as well...). This is also a pretty important scene for the current story arc of season 2 (the whole Finchel break-up). Anyway, I think they did a really great job a making a sex scene with 3 different couples - sexy yet still appropriate.

5. Like a Prayer (performed by the New Directions) - I was really nervous during the episode because this is my favorite Madonna song (and one of my favorite songs in general) and I kept thinking it would be sacrilege to do a Madonna episode and not include this song! But alas, they saved the best for last. I was a little disappointed that they kept the song's original tone (you know with the whole choir thing) - I would have liked to see a different Glee spin on the song, but I guess you can't mess with perfection. We also got to hear from other members of the Glee club - and we get the powerful voices of Mercedes and Rachel together....it was, as Kurt would say "madgical".

6. Jessie's Girl (performed by Finn) - Do you think they planned this from the introduction of Jesse? Was he named Jesse for the purpose of utilizing this song? Because it is too perfect to be a coincidence. Right? Finn's "soul exposing" song is one of the few songs that I would consider to be better than the original. His voice is perfect for classic rock, but I would argue that his angst is what makes the song so great. He realizes that he screwed up and now has to suffer watching the girl he loves date another guy. And we get to see Finn play the drums. Love it.

7. Rose's Turn (performed by Kurt) - After the horrendous Kurt performance we endured earlier in this episode (Ain't That America - seriously hard to watch) I am glad that the creators rewarded us with this inspiring performance. He is seriously one talented kid. I got chills the first time I saw it - but the best part was Burt clapping at the end. Glee always knows the ways to emotionally ambush me.

8. The Safety Dance (performed by Artie) - Isn't it ironic that 2 of my favorite Glee performances feature my least favorite character? This is honestly probably my favorite Glee performance - simply because it is the most unexpected. It's done as a flash mob scene in the middle of a mall - but the most unexpected part was that Artie gets out of his wheel chair and starts dancing - not just simple Glee club moves either, like serious professional choreography (of course it is a dream sequence but still we get to see one of the best dancers on the show actually dance...). We also get to see some Mike Chang skills as well - always a highlight. When it was all over - and Artie is still left in his wheel chair I cried. Again.

9. Bad Romance (performed by the girls of the New Directions & Kurt) - Easily Lady Gaga's best song - I am glad they didn't do an entire Lady Gaga episode (just 2 songs - this and Poker Face - which was performed awkwardly by Rachel and her mother - played by the iconic Idina Menzel). The performance was enhanced by their ridiculous Lady Gaga outfits - my favorite was Quinns (those eyelashes were fantastic). This was probably the first time I really heard Santana's voice and realized how talented she was. The performance looked like a lot of fun - which always makes me happy.

10. Loser (performed by Puck, Finn and the Sheets & Things employees) - Although it was extremely short (how disappointing) - it was perfect. It was performed right after one of my all time favorite Glee moments so I already had a smile on my face (the moment is when Sandy asks if the name of the store is "Losers and Things" and Finn actually checks his badge to see if the name had in fact changed- it is those small moments that make Glee so amazing). So Puck & Finn begin a fantastic rendition of the amazing Beck song and it made me miss 90's alternative music. It was a tough choice between this and the other Puck/Finn performance in this episode - Good Vibrations (which made me miss 90's hip hop and of course Marky Mark). Basically, what I am trying to say is: Can we get some more awesome 90's music on Glee???

11. Don't Stop Believing (performed by the New Directions) - Don't worry...I didn't forget the obvious. I can't decide which version I like - the premiere version with Rachel & Finn taking the lead or the finale version where the others get to shine. The first one was more raw, freestyle, fun and intimate but the second one is just better (in sound and choreography). The song is used as perfect bookends for the season and what better to describe their journey together than Journey?

and as bonus here are my favorite performances on "Glee" that are not by the New Direction members...

12. Rehab (performed by Vocal Adrenaline) - The first time I saw it I had the same expression of the New Direction members - jaw dropped to the floor. The choreography, the energy and the collective singing was mind-blowing. This was their competition?! They are SCREWED! The best part was that it gave something for our New Directions to aim for. How the heck are they ever going to be that good? More importantly - Are they ever going to be that good? Maybe, maybe not but I rejoice in the possibilities.

13. Poison/I Wanna Sex You Up (performed by the Acafella's) - Best thing ever. I can't decide between the two. Poison is one of my favorite songs ever (to dance to!) while I Wanna Sex You Up is just so ridiculously funny. Both songs arn't very appropriate but that is what makes them so great. I also love that we get to see Puck sing (and be sexified). I would love for the Acafella's to get back together for a few more performances...hint...hint.

14. Single Ladies (performed by the McKinley Titans) - ok they don't sing the song - but they do the dance....you know the dance that became 2009's biggest dancing sensation. Watching huge football guys in their uniforms dance about putting a "ring" on it is probably one of the greatest things I have ever seen. Plus - they finally won a game! I also enjoyed Kurt, Tina & Brittany dancing to it in the beginning (leotards and all...).

15. Imagine (performed by the Haverbrook School for the Deaf) - This is the moment when I knew Glee was special. It is probably the moment when I cried the hardest while watching a "comedy". I still get chills thinking about it. OMG when The New Directions joined in it was just so affecting and inspiring. I love that they followed them in signing the whole song. When is the last time you saw a group of deaf teens sing a song on network television? Um never.

16. Vogue (performed by Sue Sylvester) - greatest moment of Glee ever.

17. Bohemian Rhapsody (performed by Vocal Adrenaline) - Just when we are so proud of our New Direction gang - we remember how amazing their competitors are. They undoubtedly deserved the win (am I supposed to admit that?). I loved how they intertwined this song with Quinn's birth - it was unexpected and weird, yet it just worked.

Golden Globes: The 7(+) Biggest Snubs and 3 WTF Nominations

So the Golden Globe nominations were announced on Tuesday and I have to admit - I am still in shock. I realize that it was a struggle to find "award worthy" films this year but they seriously f'd up in what they ultimately chose to nominate. Television seems to have the opposite problem - there is so much awesomeness it is hard to narrow it down. Usually the GG's is my favorite award show - but this year I just can't get behind their decisions. Here are 7 of the biggest snubs and 3 WTF were they thinking nominations.

Film snubs:

1. The Town/Ben Affleck & Company - So The Town and Black Swan are currently competing for my favorite film of the year. I am glad Black Swan has been showered with nominations but the only one that seems to be recognized from The Town is Jeremy Renner (which is definitely well deserved). The entire ensemble of actors in this film is fantastic - I was hoping to see Blake Lively earn a nomination (I never thought that would happen!). I was even more surprised that Jon Hamm was ignored (I thought he was an award show favorite) - but the most egregious error was snubbing Ben Affleck (for Best Actor and Best Director). This film could have been a generic crime thriller about Boston thugs - instead it had heart, intensity and a depth that most films lacked this year. Plus, he directed himself to one of his best performances since Good Will Hunting. It is definitely a tough race among directors this year - look at that list (Fincher, Aronofsky, O'Russell, Nolan)!! But I honestly think Affleck deserves to be listed along side these amazing film makers.

2. Inception's Actors - The most compelling part of Inception was it's acting talent. I was expecting Leo to score another nomination. I was also hoping for JGL to be recognized (as I always do) and Marion Cotillard was perfection! How did she get ignored?

Film WTF nominations:

1. The entire Best Picture - Musical or Comedy category - I have never been so offended in my entire life!! Scrolling down the list - Alice in Wonderland is on my "Worst Films of 2010" list for several reasons (see my previous post of the film). Then I was disturbed by Burlesque - just because the category includes musicals doesn't mean one has to be nominated (especially if it is unworthy). I still haven't seen The Kids Are Alright (I should be receiving it from Netflix tomorrow), so I can't really comment - although I had no idea it was a comedy. Speaking of not a comedy - Red was the least funny film I have seen all year. Yet all of these films combined are still better than the last nomination The Tourist. Are you f'ing kidding me?? First of all, since when is it a comedy? It is not advertised as one (even Angelina herself was surprised at her nod in the "comedy" category). Second, it currently has a 20% on the RT meter, which basically means it is a disaster. Third, I repeat - ARE YOU F'ING KIDDING ME?! So here is how this category should have went down: I am the first one to admit finding 5 nomination worthy comedic films this year is tough. However, Easy A should have been a given (at least they had the good sense to nominate Emma Stone). It is by far my favorite comedy of the year. Next, should have been The Other Guys - simply because it was actually consistently funny. I would even say Date Night would be a solid choice for it's comedy alone (not for plot...). If I were to choose some "action/comedy" films , I would replace Red and obviously The Tourist with either The A-team or The Losers - even the mediocre Kick-Ass would have been a better choice. The best indie, poignant "smaller" film would be It's Kind of a Funny Story or even Greenberg. So - I just listed 8 films that are far superior than those that were nominated - that is just embarrassing Hollywood Foreign Press!!

2. The Inclusion of Mediocrity - I adore Mila Kunis - but her performance was very linear and one-note. I wouldn't call that award worthy (sorry Mila...can we still be BFF's??). Michael Douglas was nothing special in the most boring film of the year - Wall Street 2: Money Never Sleeps. Johnny Depp did a fantastic job as the Madd Hatter in Alice in Wonderland but one nomination would have been enough - his performance looks laughable in The Tourist (as does his co-stars Angelina Jolie).

Television snubs:

1. Breaking Bad/Aaron Paul - So they finally came to their senses and nominated Bryan Cranston (who has won 3 Emmy's for his performance on Breaking Bad), but do I seriously have to have this conversation again?!! Aaron Paul won the Emmy last year - explain to me how he doesn't deserve a Golden Globe nomination? The biggest problem is that the "supporting" category includes all of t.v (comedy, drama and made for t.v movies) so it is incredibly difficult to narrow the talent to 5 who are award worthy (although did anyone else notice that there are 6 comedy's nominated? I'm guessing it was too tough to narrow down - but since t.v rocked this year they should have expanded all categories to 6). Anyway, Breaking Bad also is the best show on t.v - it could easily replace The Walking Dead (also a fantastic show - but there were only 6 episodes and the last 3 seemed to drag a bit. I hesitate to award it so quickly).

2. Cory Monteith - I am a little confused about the categories that the Glee actors are nominated for - I am totally down with Chris Colfer and Jane Lynch in the Supporting category but I think Lea Michele and Matt Morrison are “supporting” as well (especially this year – neither has had a major story arc yet). There really isn’t a “star” of that show – it is completely an ensemble production. Whether you want to include him as a Supporting Actor or Lead Actor, hands down Cory Monteith is the best actor on that show – he is just more understated and subtle than the other actors. He effortlessly portrays the “all American” high school teenage boy who is conflicted by his love for football and the Glee club (for those who don't see this as a challenge just consider the fact that Cory is Canadian, dropped out of school in 8th grade and has never played football or sung before this show – meanwhile Lea scored this role because she yelled at the piano player during her audition after thinking he made a mistake – very “Rachel” like and the role of “Kurt” never existed until the creators met Chris and created the role based on his own personality. Both are portraying a characterized version of themselves – I call it the “Tina Fey Syndrome”. I absolutely adore both Lea and Chris – I am just using them as examples to express my frustration). I think Cory will likely always be ignored for his part on this show, which is severely disappointing. For the record – I am not the only one who feels this way, recently this was written in EW.com: “It’s been a while since we’ve gotten some Finn focus, and I think I just missed Cory Monteith. But I also forgot what a good, natural actor he can be.”

3. Fringe and everyone on it - Nothing for one of the best series on television? Really? Just one nomination would have sufficed (for Anna Torv - who easily had the most challenging role this season playing 2 different versions of herself - I also note that Nina Dobrev faced a similar challenge on The Vampire Diaries this season and NAILED it). The show is clearly superior to most shows and the combined acting talent puts other shows to shame. On a side note - I just found out they are moving the show to the "death" time slot on Friday nights...wtf? Are they trying to break my heart?

4. All of the Supporting Actors That I Love - Seriously, they missed so many I don't know where to begin - How about the entire supporting cast of Grey's Anatomy? or Community? The rest of the Modern Family cast? Cougar Town? Certainly someone (anyone) from Parenthood? I was surprised by the absence of Lost actors as well.

5. January Jones, Courtney Cox, Peter Krause, Joel McHale - just a few lead actors that should have been recognized. It's quite astounding how much talent was ignored!

Television WTF nomination:

1. Piper Perabo - I actually laughed out loud when I read that. The girl from Coyote Ugly was actually nominated for an award other than a Razzie? That must be some sort of joke on all of us t.v fans. A show like Covert Affairs should not be recognized during award season - I've never seen it, but am sure that it is no better than other summer "fillers" like Rookie Blue, Royal Pains, Burn Notice etc. I can literally think of a dozen other actresses that deserve her slot.

4 Films That I Actually Liked

It's been a while since I have watched films from this year that I actually enjoyed. I wouldn't say any of them are fantastic, but compared to other films released this year they definitely are an improvement.

1. It's Kind of a Funny Story - Emma Roberts is one of my favorite young actresses working today (I am ignoring the fact that she was in Valentine’s Day). I am happy that she chooses to do quieter films with interesting roles – proving her talent instead of riding on her famous Aunt’s heels. Keir Gilcrest is an unknown actor who is surprisingly talented - he could easily pass for a Culkin (I say that as a Culkin family fan – Rory and Keiran are incredibly talented young actors). I like the story – it’s an interesting take on teen depression. It sort of belittles teenage angst by shoving a “depressed” teenager into a mental ward for a few days – you know with actual “crazy” people. It is a cheesy tale of growing up, appreciating what you have and the people around you, yet it didn’t seem as preachy as it could have been. I’m not sure if it is a film I will remember 10 years from now (like its predecessor Girl, Interrupted) but it is one of the best films this year (which is just plain sad).

2. The Other Guys - This film was actually funny (unlike the promos and trailer for the film – in which I laughed a total of zero times). It took me by surprise because I don't think I have laughed at a Will Ferrell film since Elf. The funniest ongoing joke was Eva Mendes as Will Ferrell’s wife (and how he constantly makes comments about how plain she is). It is completely offensive (you know…emotionally abusing your wife), but somehow it crosses the line to funny. I enjoy Mark Walberg in comedic roles (oh how I fell in love with him in I Heart Huckabees). The plot was a little ridiculous and predictable, but infused with enough humor to be completely entertaining.

3. The Killer Inside Me - Not your ordinary violent movie – this film was downright brutal. And completely hard to watch. Jessica Alba is gorgeous, but I don’t think she is the best actress for this role. I am a huge fan of Casey Affleck but I am a little nervous about the whole sexual harassment issue (one accusation I would ignore - but 3? That might have some truth behind it…). So the best way I can describe this film is that it is a Western version of American Psycho (not nearly as good). However, *spoiler alerts ahead* the killer made a lot of mistakes (like his framing of the murder-she wouldn't shoot 4 perfect shots after she had a broken face & neck) and taking some of the money (not knowing that he bills were marked). His hatred towards women is fascinating (although I would rather not know that his mother was a complete psychopath – it would have made his hate more evil). Everyone mumbled a lot so I feel like I missed a lot of important dialogue but wasn’t quite interested enough to rewind. I didn’t think Alba's character was still alive. It is rare that a film surprises me so that was a plus. I was bothered by the end because wouldn’t they smell the gas? If he really doused the entire house it would surely smell. He did use alcohol for part of the house, but still gas is a pretty intense smell. I kind of want to see the original film from the 70’s although I don’t want to read the book. I don’t know why -but books disturb me more than films do - I feel like it would give me nightmares.

The Losers - The best part of this film is the cast. None of them are super famous, but all prove to be extremely talented (and funny!). I love Idris Elba? Does anyone else miss The Wire as much as I do? And Jeffrey Dean Morgan (better known as Denny from Greys Anatomy). Chris Evans was refreshing – he should do more roles like this because I honestly never thought he could do anything else but look pretty. I love the scene where he sings Journey's Don't Stop Believing so that no one will get in the elevator with him. Hysterical. Jason Patrick (getting old…) as a bad guy was also great casting. I guess it is about time I forgive Zoe Saldana for Crossroads right? She is now a legitimate actress – she did a pretty good job holding her own against some pretty tough guys. It’s kinda like The A-Team - equally action packed, equally funny just a bit more under the radar (and missing a shirtless Bradley Cooper). I honestly enjoyed it from beginning to end.