Sorry I missed last quarter. I had the reviews all written, but I never got as far as cutting, pasting, and posting.
So I'll be doing the back half of the year over the next few days.
As always, "A"s are must see. Either they're extremely well put togerher, or they move me in a way that few films do.
"B"s are good films.
"C"s are average, "D"s are nearly unwatchable, and "F" is toxic.
And, yes, I do skew to the Bs more often than not. That's simply because I usually can pick good movies out. If something stinks like crap, I usually know enough to stay away from it. Sadly, I didn't hit many great movies this year, so the grades are a little lower than usual-- and the reviews are frequently shorter as well.
And, finally, all are films I saw on DVD unless otherwise noted. This is important because I believe an experience in a theatre can elevate a lesser movie (or seeing a DVD at home may not get the full effect).
These aren't in much order other than usually the order in which I saw them, beginning in July.
Taken— A thinking man’s revenge story. Liam Neeson was great as always, but the whole movie seemed to wrap up too nicely. Yeah, liberties need to be taken in a 2 hour movie, but it just seemed like the plot was just thinly used to fill in action sequences. That’s not the worst thing (or not the least bit uncommon), but I think the film got too much credit for what it was ultimately worth. B-
The Spirit— As a comic book fan, I wanted this to succeed. The question of “did it” I guess will have to be left up to the viewer. Frank Miller’s first solo directing job was pretty to look at, but that was pretty much it: pretty to look at. Did it make sense? Not really. Did it have good performances? Sure. But is doing a good acting job with bad lines mean the film is better than it should be? Not in this case. The tone of the film was also disorienting. It was ultra dark, yet there were countless silly moments that may work on the page, but didn’t work on the screen.
I’m happy the greatest accomplishment (of countless great accomplishments) the “grandfather of comic books” (Will Eisner) had finally made it to the screen, but there really is nothing beyond above-average visuals that would lead anyone to seek out the source material. I know that’s not even a thought for most movies made from comics, but, c’mon, Frank Miller isn’t your average filmmaker either. B-
He’s Just Not That Into You— This film pissed me off. Every woman in this movie was every cliché you could find in a 20-30 year old female character in any other movie. They act as if they are independent yet cannot bear the thought of not having “a man” in their lives. So then they get stupid and forget everything they know about men. It’s not tough—men don’t want to cause a scene or hurt a nice girl’s feelings by saying he’s not interested, so he’ll lie and say he’ll call her. And, let’s face it, guys also want to leave open the possibility of a one-night stand (liking someone enough to go on multiple dates is different than liking someone enough to jump in the sack; that’s how it is), so why hurt someone’s feelings if that can happen?
And add to the stupid women in the film (and most other films), their stupid friends who are always dangling the extremely rare exception in front of them (“Maybe he really did have a grandmother die and was out of town”).
Anyway, Justin Long (a favorite of mine) played a character who schooled the so pretty yet so dim Ginnifer Goodwin on when a guy “just isn’t that into you”. And it made sense. So I let up on my feelings and was happy that while these characters were clichéd and horribly naïve, at least people watching this movie can learn from these dimbulbs’ mistakes.
And, here’s where the spoiler alert is going to happen because I can’t really explain my feelings unless I tell you how it works out.
SPOILER ALERT: everything was “working out” in the reality front. Some women just learned tough lessons, and the guys who insisted they weren’t interested stayed not interested. Until the end of the film when the two men who stayed honest and truthful in their disinterest completely flipped and ended up with their respective women. I was livid. Nearly the entire movie, we were told “sometimes he’s just not that into you”—and then they f-ing went against their nature and ended up with the girl. All for a stupid damn happy ending. So, essentially, the entire message of the film was thrown out—as if those two women just happen to be the exceptions who proved the rule. Give me a break.
END SPOILER ALERT.
So, here I am. I liked the movie (mostly). It had some good scenes. It featured a great cast. Yet, there were a few things that really ruined the experience for me. C+ for the cast making the best of it and a D- for the let-down in the plot. C-
Dead Like Me: Life After Death— It’s been a few years since I last watched this underrated series (catch it on Showtime DVD or repeats—the Sci Fi Channel aired it for a while), so it was a bit tough at times to get reacquainted with the concept. But it was a good one-shot movie to tie up the series—as well as a good jumping-off point for future stories. I missed Mandy Patinkin’s character, but I guess they were lucky to get most of the rest of the cast together again after a period of a few years. It still mostly felt like the series—although I would have liked it to be more whimsical like the show was (there was a time or two in this DVD where they came close). This was mostly Fred’s story, though, and they only had 90 minutes to tell it, so the supporting characters (who tended to get into trouble more) were left a little in the back. If you liked the series, then check it out. If you missed the series, then watch those two seasons before you watch this movie. B-
How to Lose Friends and Alienate People— Pretty much completely forgettable. I saw this movie about two months ago, and all I can remember now is that Simon Pegg was in it. He played a cad who gained fame as a Perez Hilton-type on the internet who eventually got a job as a magazine writer. I’m sure there was a girl he was after; one who he had to change his ways for—and that he probably did change and get her. I don’t remember the details. D+
Wolverine— film. Wolverine has been one of my least-favorite super-hero characters. Back in the ‘80s and ‘90s, he was the shit, and I just got tired of seeing him everywhere. And I had heard how poor this film was, so, had I not had my life to itself (my family was away), and had I not had a coupon that covered the entire cost of the ticket, I wouldn’t have gone.
But, you know what? It wasn’t as bad as I feared. It wasn’t terribly memorable (and Ryan Reynolds was not utilized enough), but I also remember thinking “This isn’t that bad,” as I was sitting in my seat. But it also wasn’t memorable. Past successes with Iron Man and The Dark Knight were great for the comic-to-movie “industry”, but it also hurt it because a movie like this has the bar set so high against it, it can never really succeed. This film wasn’t made with a huge budget (and if it was, then what they paid for didn’t end up on the screen), so it didn’t have the wide-spanning potential that great comic-book movies have had. B-
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Monday, December 28, 2009
Premieres and Notables: December 28, 2009- January 3, 2010
Monday-Thursday
HBO reairs the second season of True Blood; 3 eps a night, from 7-10 pm CST.
Tuesday, 12/29
Daycare Divas; TLC. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
The trials the workers in a daycare go through with twelve kids.
Sounds exciting.
Friday, 1/1
DogTown; National Geographic. 9 pm CST. Season Premiere.
The Outdoor Room With Jamie Durie; HGTV. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Durie gives landscaping a makeover.
Saturday, 1/2
It's Me or the Dog; Animal Planet. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
What I Hate About Me; Style. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Women complain about themselves, and then get makeovers to "fix" them.
Demons; BBC America. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
A descendant of Abraham Van Helsing becomes a vampire fighter.
Sunday, 1/3
Platinum Weddings; WE. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Desperate Housewives (ABC; 8 pm) has a "What If" episode, where the 'wives imagine what life could have been like had some things gone differently. I mention this because I'm a sucker for these types of stories.
Durham County; ION. 8 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
Worst Cooks in America; Food Network. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Terrible cooks compete in a food competition.
Because that's what was missing in the world...
HBO reairs the second season of True Blood; 3 eps a night, from 7-10 pm CST.
Tuesday, 12/29
Daycare Divas; TLC. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
The trials the workers in a daycare go through with twelve kids.
Sounds exciting.
Friday, 1/1
DogTown; National Geographic. 9 pm CST. Season Premiere.
The Outdoor Room With Jamie Durie; HGTV. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Durie gives landscaping a makeover.
Saturday, 1/2
It's Me or the Dog; Animal Planet. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
What I Hate About Me; Style. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Women complain about themselves, and then get makeovers to "fix" them.
Demons; BBC America. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
A descendant of Abraham Van Helsing becomes a vampire fighter.
Sunday, 1/3
Platinum Weddings; WE. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Desperate Housewives (ABC; 8 pm) has a "What If" episode, where the 'wives imagine what life could have been like had some things gone differently. I mention this because I'm a sucker for these types of stories.
Durham County; ION. 8 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
Worst Cooks in America; Food Network. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Terrible cooks compete in a food competition.
Because that's what was missing in the world...
Friday, December 25, 2009
My Christmas Present For The Boys Out There
Santa's Dancers - Watch more Funny Videos
Sorry, Ladies. I didn't look very hard for one for you. :(
Wizards in Winter in Lights
51 seconds in, my 5-year-old yells out "Chickenfoot".
I couldn't have been more proud.
Yes, it's a Trans-Siberian Orchestra song.
He was commenting on the lights...
Look closely...
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
South Park: The Spirit of Christmas
I haven't watched this in years. Pretty funny-- if profanity-laden. And if you don't have any humor at all about Jesus Christ, you may want to pass (although the "reason for the season"-- or, at least, what "they'll" have you believe-- is pretty well spelled out by the end).
Take a look at the early version of South Park; the short that got the show green-lit by Comedy Central:
Take a look at the early version of South Park; the short that got the show green-lit by Comedy Central:
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Mad TV's Terminator 3 (w/Jesus)
Obviously, this aired before the third Terminator flick.
Looks like it would have been a superior film.
Looks like it would have been a superior film.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Premieres and Notables; December 21-27, 2009
Monday, 12/21
The Sing Off (NBC; 7 pm CST) Season Finale
The Closer (TNT; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Wednesday, 12/23
I've talked up Glee before, and today FOX is airing two of the best eps of the season. At 7 pm CST, they air the episode where Kurt attempts to join the football team (highlighted wonderfully by Mike O'Malley's role as Kurt's father) and at 8 pm, the episode that guest-starred Kristen Chenowith airs.
Glee has a number of imperfections, but when it hits the a nice, emotional, element, it's the best show on TV. Both of these episodes hit that emotional element. When Kurt told his dad he was gay, I have to say I did not expect the reaction his father gave back. Surprising, and extremely well written as well as acted.
Thursday, 12/24
NBC airs It's a Wonderful Life at 7 pm. Sure, it's a little hokey-- but, c'mon, it can still bring a tear to your eye. And even if you're a cold-hearted bastard, you have to admire Jimmy Stewart's work. It sure was a different time then. There is only one actor who might be able to pull off that role now... George Clooney.
Friday, 12/25
TBS runs its annual 24-hr A Christmas Story marathon, beginning at 5 am CST.
I just watched the film a week ago (after a few years), and it just gets more brilliant as I get older.
Saturday, 12/26
5 Ingredient Fix; Food Network. 11:30 am CST. Season Premiere.
Sunday, 12/27
Brothers (FOX; 6:30 pm CST). Season Finale.
"Season Finale"... Yeah, right.
Hey, when Joe Buck has the stones to rip on the show on his HBO series-- mere feet from Brothers star Michael Strahan-- and Strahan doesn't kick his ass, I think the writing is on the wall.
This will be the series finale.
The Sing Off (NBC; 7 pm CST) Season Finale
The Closer (TNT; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Wednesday, 12/23
I've talked up Glee before, and today FOX is airing two of the best eps of the season. At 7 pm CST, they air the episode where Kurt attempts to join the football team (highlighted wonderfully by Mike O'Malley's role as Kurt's father) and at 8 pm, the episode that guest-starred Kristen Chenowith airs.
Glee has a number of imperfections, but when it hits the a nice, emotional, element, it's the best show on TV. Both of these episodes hit that emotional element. When Kurt told his dad he was gay, I have to say I did not expect the reaction his father gave back. Surprising, and extremely well written as well as acted.
Thursday, 12/24
NBC airs It's a Wonderful Life at 7 pm. Sure, it's a little hokey-- but, c'mon, it can still bring a tear to your eye. And even if you're a cold-hearted bastard, you have to admire Jimmy Stewart's work. It sure was a different time then. There is only one actor who might be able to pull off that role now... George Clooney.
Friday, 12/25
TBS runs its annual 24-hr A Christmas Story marathon, beginning at 5 am CST.
I just watched the film a week ago (after a few years), and it just gets more brilliant as I get older.
Saturday, 12/26
5 Ingredient Fix; Food Network. 11:30 am CST. Season Premiere.
Sunday, 12/27
Brothers (FOX; 6:30 pm CST). Season Finale.
"Season Finale"... Yeah, right.
Hey, when Joe Buck has the stones to rip on the show on his HBO series-- mere feet from Brothers star Michael Strahan-- and Strahan doesn't kick his ass, I think the writing is on the wall.
This will be the series finale.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Wrangler Unveils New Line
Got this from my video clip guru, Allan. Usually there's no link to embed the vids he sends me.
But this time, there was.
But this time, there was.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Fast Food Duel of the Fates
I'll admit, it's kinda stupid. But I liked the last lines by each character.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Premieres and Notables; Dec. 14-20, 2009
Monday, 12/14
The Vampire Diaries; The CW. 7-9 pm CST. Marathon.
In a cool move I'd like to see other networks do, The CW is airing the first half of the season Monday to Friday this week.
The Sing-Off; NBC. 7 pm CST. Series Premiere.
This daily series (Mon-Wed this week) touts it takes the singing in Glee and mixes it with the competition of
American Idol right in the commercial.
I guess NBC hasn't been able to score on its own, so it may as well rip-off the best...
Bank of Hollywood; E!. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Average blokes beg a panel of L.A. moneybags (like Candy Spelling) to finance their dreams.
Tuesday, 12/15
E2: Design (Sundance; 7 pm). Season Finale.
Paranormal State; A&E. 9 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Funniest Commercials of the Year 2009; TBS. 9 pm CST. Special.
Usually a pretty good hour of TV-- especially since I watch my TV on DVR, DVD, or tape and FastForward through commercials.
Wednesday, 12/16
So You Think You Can Dance (FOX; 7 pm) Season Finale.
Man vs. Food (Travel; 9 pm). Season Finale.
Nip/Tuck (FX; 9 pm). Season Finale.
Thursday, 12/17
SNL Presents: A Very Gilly Christmas; NBC. 7 pm. Special.
Normally I wouldn't mention an SNL special (as the show has been crap for years), but these clip shows tend to be okay.
Friday, 12/18
Love the Beast; SPEED. 7 pm. Special.
Eric Bana directs this documentary about his 1974 XB Coupe.
Crash (Starz; 9 pm). Season Finale.
Saturday, 12/19
WWE Tribute to the Troops; NBC, 8 pm CST. Special.
Doctor Who: The Waters of Mars; BBC America. 8 pm CST. Special.
The countdown to David Tennant's departure of the series ticks one episode closer...
Sunday, 12/20
Survivor (CBS; 7 pm). Season Finale.
The Vampire Diaries; The CW. 7-9 pm CST. Marathon.
In a cool move I'd like to see other networks do, The CW is airing the first half of the season Monday to Friday this week.
The Sing-Off; NBC. 7 pm CST. Series Premiere.
This daily series (Mon-Wed this week) touts it takes the singing in Glee and mixes it with the competition of
American Idol right in the commercial.
I guess NBC hasn't been able to score on its own, so it may as well rip-off the best...
Bank of Hollywood; E!. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Average blokes beg a panel of L.A. moneybags (like Candy Spelling) to finance their dreams.
Tuesday, 12/15
E2: Design (Sundance; 7 pm). Season Finale.
Paranormal State; A&E. 9 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Funniest Commercials of the Year 2009; TBS. 9 pm CST. Special.
Usually a pretty good hour of TV-- especially since I watch my TV on DVR, DVD, or tape and FastForward through commercials.
Wednesday, 12/16
So You Think You Can Dance (FOX; 7 pm) Season Finale.
Man vs. Food (Travel; 9 pm). Season Finale.
Nip/Tuck (FX; 9 pm). Season Finale.
Thursday, 12/17
SNL Presents: A Very Gilly Christmas; NBC. 7 pm. Special.
Normally I wouldn't mention an SNL special (as the show has been crap for years), but these clip shows tend to be okay.
Friday, 12/18
Love the Beast; SPEED. 7 pm. Special.
Eric Bana directs this documentary about his 1974 XB Coupe.
Crash (Starz; 9 pm). Season Finale.
Saturday, 12/19
WWE Tribute to the Troops; NBC, 8 pm CST. Special.
Doctor Who: The Waters of Mars; BBC America. 8 pm CST. Special.
The countdown to David Tennant's departure of the series ticks one episode closer...
Sunday, 12/20
Survivor (CBS; 7 pm). Season Finale.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Pulp Muppets
It's a complete shame I'm posting this when there's perfectly good real Muppet stuff to post...
Wednesday, December 09, 2009
Tuesday, December 08, 2009
Monday, December 07, 2009
Bohemian Muppets
I'm not sure what the deal is with The Muppets anymore.
Are they maing a comeback or not?
Possibly, with this new clip from The Muppet Studio.
Are they maing a comeback or not?
Possibly, with this new clip from The Muppet Studio.
Sunday, December 06, 2009
Premieres and Notables; December 7-13, 2009
Monday, 12/7
The Closer (TNT; 8 pm CST). Mid-Season Return.
Men of a Certain Age; TNT. 9 pm CST. Series premiere.
Great actors in Ray Romano, Scott Bakula, and Andre Braugher as the leads. Unusual premise in three (male) friends experiencing mid-life crises. And the two TV critics I follow were split on it (TV Guide's Matt Roush hated it; Entertainment Weekly's Ken Tucker loved it).
Million Dollar Listing (Bravo; 9 pm). Season Finale.
Rita Rocks (Lifetime; 9 pm). Season Finale.
Tuesday, 12/8
Biggest Loser (NBC; 7 pm). Season Finale.
ABC tries again to debut the Christmas special Prep & Landing (7:30 pm CST).
Better Off Ted; ABC. 8:30 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
Wednesday, 12/9
Glee (FOX; 8 pm). Fall Finale.
Spectacle: Elvie Costello With... Sundance. 9 pm CST. Season Premiere.
With... Bono and The Edge.
Top Chef: Las Vegas (Bravo; 9 pm) Season Finale.
Thursday, 12/10
Stossel; FOX Business. 7 pm CST. Series Premiere.
John Stossel gets his own, live, show.
Fringe (FOX; 8 pm CST). Fall Finale.
The Jeff Dunham Show (Comedy Central; 8 pm) Season Finale.
It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia (FX; 9 pm). Season Finale.
Friday, 12/11
Yes, Virginia; CBS. 7:00 pm. Special.
Neil Patrick Harris lends his voice to this Christmas special based on the famous 1897 newspaper editoral that answered Virginia's question with "Yes, Virginia, Santa Claus is real."
Live at Gotham (Comedy Central; 10 pm). Season Finale.
Saturday, 12/12
Ghost Intervention; TLC. 8 pm. Series Premiere.
Sunday, 12/13
The Jacksons: A Family Dynasty; A&E. 8 pm CST. Miniseries Premiere.
Hey! Look at that! A&E really does do some artsy stuff once in a while.
This mini follows four of the Jackson Five in their efforts to have a reunion tour happen (it started filming before the fifth Jackson died).
Dexter (Showtime; 8 pm). Season Finale.
The Closer (TNT; 8 pm CST). Mid-Season Return.
Men of a Certain Age; TNT. 9 pm CST. Series premiere.
Great actors in Ray Romano, Scott Bakula, and Andre Braugher as the leads. Unusual premise in three (male) friends experiencing mid-life crises. And the two TV critics I follow were split on it (TV Guide's Matt Roush hated it; Entertainment Weekly's Ken Tucker loved it).
Million Dollar Listing (Bravo; 9 pm). Season Finale.
Rita Rocks (Lifetime; 9 pm). Season Finale.
Tuesday, 12/8
Biggest Loser (NBC; 7 pm). Season Finale.
ABC tries again to debut the Christmas special Prep & Landing (7:30 pm CST).
Better Off Ted; ABC. 8:30 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
Wednesday, 12/9
Glee (FOX; 8 pm). Fall Finale.
Spectacle: Elvie Costello With... Sundance. 9 pm CST. Season Premiere.
With... Bono and The Edge.
Top Chef: Las Vegas (Bravo; 9 pm) Season Finale.
Thursday, 12/10
Stossel; FOX Business. 7 pm CST. Series Premiere.
John Stossel gets his own, live, show.
Fringe (FOX; 8 pm CST). Fall Finale.
The Jeff Dunham Show (Comedy Central; 8 pm) Season Finale.
It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia (FX; 9 pm). Season Finale.
Friday, 12/11
Yes, Virginia; CBS. 7:00 pm. Special.
Neil Patrick Harris lends his voice to this Christmas special based on the famous 1897 newspaper editoral that answered Virginia's question with "Yes, Virginia, Santa Claus is real."
Live at Gotham (Comedy Central; 10 pm). Season Finale.
Saturday, 12/12
Ghost Intervention; TLC. 8 pm. Series Premiere.
Sunday, 12/13
The Jacksons: A Family Dynasty; A&E. 8 pm CST. Miniseries Premiere.
Hey! Look at that! A&E really does do some artsy stuff once in a while.
This mini follows four of the Jackson Five in their efforts to have a reunion tour happen (it started filming before the fifth Jackson died).
Dexter (Showtime; 8 pm). Season Finale.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Premieres and Notables; November 30- December 6, 2009
Monday, 11/30
Shrek the Halls; ABC. 7:30 pm CST. Special.
A repeat of last year's Holiday special.
Intervention; A&E. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Hoarders; A&E. 9 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
I'm still waiting for my call for them to film my Fortress of Solitude ("mancave").
Tuesday, 12/1
Prep & Landing; ABC. 7:30 pm. Special.
Sarah Chalke and Dave Foley voice the lead characters, who are elves who make sure Santa gets the job done on the 25th. ABC has been promoting this one, hard. I also think Pixar had a hand in it (can't say for sure, or how much), so that, alone, will have me tuning in.
Scrubs; ABC. 8 & 8:30 pm. 9th Season Premiere.
After a great series finale last spring, we get "Scrubs 2.0" with many familiar faces alongside a bunch of new ones as Drs. Turk and Cox teach medicine to a number of new recruits.
Britain's Missing Top Model; BBC America. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Unconventional models compete to be featured in a fashion magazine.
Sherri (Lifetime; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Sons of Anarchy (FX; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Wednesday, 12/2
Bank of Mom & Dad (SOAPNet; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Steven Seagal Lawman; A&E. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Steven Seagal chronicles his career as a real-life Louisiana sheriff's deputy.
I can't wait until Entertainment Tonight breaks the story that he snapped a perp's neck.
Top Chef Las Vegas (Bravo; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Launch My Line; Bravo. 10 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Bravo tries to re-catch lightning in a bottle with another attempt to replace Project Runway.
Friday, 12/4
Monk (USA; 8 pm) Series Finale.
Monk gets the break he needs to solve his wife's murder.
Saturday, 12/5
The Ultimate Fighter: The Heavyweights (Spike; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Sunday, 12/6
Amazing Race (CBS; 7 pm). Season Finale.
Alice; Syfy. 8 pm CST. 2-part mini-series.
A "reimagining" of Alice in Wonderland in the vein that last year's Tin Man retold The Wizard of Oz.
Shatner's Raw Nerve; Bio. 9 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
Shrek the Halls; ABC. 7:30 pm CST. Special.
A repeat of last year's Holiday special.
Intervention; A&E. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Hoarders; A&E. 9 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
I'm still waiting for my call for them to film my Fortress of Solitude ("mancave").
Tuesday, 12/1
Prep & Landing; ABC. 7:30 pm. Special.
Sarah Chalke and Dave Foley voice the lead characters, who are elves who make sure Santa gets the job done on the 25th. ABC has been promoting this one, hard. I also think Pixar had a hand in it (can't say for sure, or how much), so that, alone, will have me tuning in.
Scrubs; ABC. 8 & 8:30 pm. 9th Season Premiere.
After a great series finale last spring, we get "Scrubs 2.0" with many familiar faces alongside a bunch of new ones as Drs. Turk and Cox teach medicine to a number of new recruits.
Britain's Missing Top Model; BBC America. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Unconventional models compete to be featured in a fashion magazine.
Sherri (Lifetime; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Sons of Anarchy (FX; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Wednesday, 12/2
Bank of Mom & Dad (SOAPNet; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Steven Seagal Lawman; A&E. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Steven Seagal chronicles his career as a real-life Louisiana sheriff's deputy.
I can't wait until Entertainment Tonight breaks the story that he snapped a perp's neck.
Top Chef Las Vegas (Bravo; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Launch My Line; Bravo. 10 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Bravo tries to re-catch lightning in a bottle with another attempt to replace Project Runway.
Friday, 12/4
Monk (USA; 8 pm) Series Finale.
Monk gets the break he needs to solve his wife's murder.
Saturday, 12/5
The Ultimate Fighter: The Heavyweights (Spike; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Sunday, 12/6
Amazing Race (CBS; 7 pm). Season Finale.
Alice; Syfy. 8 pm CST. 2-part mini-series.
A "reimagining" of Alice in Wonderland in the vein that last year's Tin Man retold The Wizard of Oz.
Shatner's Raw Nerve; Bio. 9 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Premieres and Notables; November 23-29, 2009
Monday, 11/23
Surviving the Holidays With Lewis Black; History. 7 pm CST. Special.
Low-key comic, Lewis Black, gives helpful tips (along with a little history lesson) on making it through the next month's worth of holiday madness.
Battlestar Galactica's Katie Sackhoff shows up on The Big Bang Theory (CBS; 8:30 pm CST).
Tuesday, 11/24
V (ABC; 7 pm CST). Mid-Season Finale.
TV's biggest hit of the year takes a nap for the next few months (returning in March); but not before giving us a killer cliffhanger (what I expect, anyway).
How the Earth Was Made; History. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Taking a look at how the Grand Canyon was formed.
Dancing With the Stars (ABC; 8:01 CST). Season Finale.
Dinner With the Band; IFC. 10 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Chef Sam Mason hosts dinner parties for indie bands in New York.
Friday, 11/27
Shameless; Sundance. 7 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Monk (USA; 8 pm) airs the first part of its 2-part series finale, which focuses on Monk finally solving Trudy's murder.
The Foo Fighters get their turn on Storytellers (VH1; 10 pm). I'm not much of a fan, but I do think Dave Grohl's pretty funny, so it should be a lively show.
Sunday, 11/29
The 26th Anniversary Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Concert; HBO. 7 pm CST. Special.
Four hours of music by past presenters and inductees such as Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, Aretha Franklin, Simon & Garfunkel, U2, Metallica, Mick Jagger, Billy Joel, Stevie Wonder, The Black Eyed Peas, Smokey Robinson, and Sting.
And, as these shows often do, the performers mix-and-match and jam with each other.
If this sounds cool, just think of what the actual 25th anniversary (in 2011) celebration will be like...
[That's a little math joke, people. The first inductees to the Hall was in 1986...]
Stormchasers (Discovery; 9 pm). Season Finale.
Surviving the Holidays With Lewis Black; History. 7 pm CST. Special.
Low-key comic, Lewis Black, gives helpful tips (along with a little history lesson) on making it through the next month's worth of holiday madness.
Battlestar Galactica's Katie Sackhoff shows up on The Big Bang Theory (CBS; 8:30 pm CST).
Tuesday, 11/24
V (ABC; 7 pm CST). Mid-Season Finale.
TV's biggest hit of the year takes a nap for the next few months (returning in March); but not before giving us a killer cliffhanger (what I expect, anyway).
How the Earth Was Made; History. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Taking a look at how the Grand Canyon was formed.
Dancing With the Stars (ABC; 8:01 CST). Season Finale.
Dinner With the Band; IFC. 10 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Chef Sam Mason hosts dinner parties for indie bands in New York.
Friday, 11/27
Shameless; Sundance. 7 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Monk (USA; 8 pm) airs the first part of its 2-part series finale, which focuses on Monk finally solving Trudy's murder.
The Foo Fighters get their turn on Storytellers (VH1; 10 pm). I'm not much of a fan, but I do think Dave Grohl's pretty funny, so it should be a lively show.
Sunday, 11/29
The 26th Anniversary Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Concert; HBO. 7 pm CST. Special.
Four hours of music by past presenters and inductees such as Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, Aretha Franklin, Simon & Garfunkel, U2, Metallica, Mick Jagger, Billy Joel, Stevie Wonder, The Black Eyed Peas, Smokey Robinson, and Sting.
And, as these shows often do, the performers mix-and-match and jam with each other.
If this sounds cool, just think of what the actual 25th anniversary (in 2011) celebration will be like...
[That's a little math joke, people. The first inductees to the Hall was in 1986...]
Stormchasers (Discovery; 9 pm). Season Finale.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Premieres and Notables; November 16-22, 2009
Monday, 11/16
I won't spoil what happened last week, but let's just say that this week, Barney returns to form on How I Met Your Mother (CBS; 7 pm CST).
Chef Academy; Bravo. 10 pm. Series Premiere.
Just what the world needed: another chef reality competition.
Tuesday, 11/17
Merry Madagscar; NBC. 7 pm CST. Special.
A half-hour, Holiday-themed special where Alex, Marty, Gloria, and Melman sub for Santa.
No mention of the real stars (and only high points) of the films, the Penguins, though.
Heather Locklear makes an attempt to save the reboot of Melrose Place-- just as she saved the first incarnation (CW; 8 pm).
And in DVD/BluRay release news: It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia's A Very Sunny Christmas direct-to-DVD special drops in stores today.
Wednesday, 11/18
America's Next Top Model (CE; 7 pm CST). Season Finale.
Clark Gregg ("Richard")'s real-life wife, Jennifer Grey, plays his blind date on The New Adventures of Old Christine (CBS; 7 pm). Should be fun to see.
Thursday, 11/19
Project Runway (Lifetime; 9 pm). Season Finale.
Friday, 11/20
Happily Ever Faster; TLC. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
A "classy" Las Vegas wedding chapel that appeals to people who don't want their nuptuals to look tacky is featured in this reality show.
Sunday, 11/22
The Next Iron Chef (Food; 8 pm). Season Finale.
Curb Your Enthusiasm (HBO; 8 pm). Season Finale.
Filming of the Seinfeld reunion show commences...
I won't spoil what happened last week, but let's just say that this week, Barney returns to form on How I Met Your Mother (CBS; 7 pm CST).
Chef Academy; Bravo. 10 pm. Series Premiere.
Just what the world needed: another chef reality competition.
Tuesday, 11/17
Merry Madagscar; NBC. 7 pm CST. Special.
A half-hour, Holiday-themed special where Alex, Marty, Gloria, and Melman sub for Santa.
No mention of the real stars (and only high points) of the films, the Penguins, though.
Heather Locklear makes an attempt to save the reboot of Melrose Place-- just as she saved the first incarnation (CW; 8 pm).
And in DVD/BluRay release news: It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia's A Very Sunny Christmas direct-to-DVD special drops in stores today.
Wednesday, 11/18
America's Next Top Model (CE; 7 pm CST). Season Finale.
Clark Gregg ("Richard")'s real-life wife, Jennifer Grey, plays his blind date on The New Adventures of Old Christine (CBS; 7 pm). Should be fun to see.
Thursday, 11/19
Project Runway (Lifetime; 9 pm). Season Finale.
Friday, 11/20
Happily Ever Faster; TLC. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
A "classy" Las Vegas wedding chapel that appeals to people who don't want their nuptuals to look tacky is featured in this reality show.
Sunday, 11/22
The Next Iron Chef (Food; 8 pm). Season Finale.
Curb Your Enthusiasm (HBO; 8 pm). Season Finale.
Filming of the Seinfeld reunion show commences...
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Best Day Ever?
So, it's been a while...
I admit, I got a bit burned out by doing that whole birthday thing (let's not discuss how long ago that was). Then I found I couldn't embed clips from E! online here anymore (I guess that's not a big loss, the clips disappeared after a short time anyway). And I've been a little anti-computer lately; I don't even do much for my Fantasy Football team (which has sucked pretty hard this year) beyond an hour or so a week making sure I don't have anyone hurt or on bye week starting for me. And my computer is nearing the end of its useful life (at least in terms of having 1-3 other people logged on it at a time); eating up the available memory and slowing anything I want to do down.
And then I read a book called The Narcissism Epidemic which claimed that things like MySpace and blogs are causes as well as effects of the increased narcissistic nature of our society. So I've been wondering if posting about what I think is just part of that societal trend, or if my original purpose still held up. (That purpose being a more passive way to express what I write in e-mails to friends in a format that is not "forced" like reading an e-mail; people have to go to this website, which leads me to believe they come here for a reason beyond the duty one would feel to read an e-mail from me.)
BTW: I think I've stuck to my original intent.
Except for this post. In this post, I'm gonna talk about my day... A lot... This one is about "me me me".
Deal with it.
Let's go back a few weeks; back to the time when I almost wrote a post called Best Week Ever...?
That week was potentially my best because I scored some really cheap ($1 & $3) CDs that were either new or very much like new. I also got a few slightly used Marvel Essential TPBs (massive books containing reprints of 20-25 issues of old comics) that retail for $16-18 for $1-$3. I got my backordered copy of Van Halen: The Visual History, 1978-1984 (used a gift card from my birthday along with a coupon and only paid a couple of buck out of pocket). I found Paul Feig's book Kick Me!-- which is hilarious and highly recommended-- for half price. Grabbed Smallville Season 5 used DVD set for $10. And I got my advance copy of the Wii game Guitar Hero: Van Halen (due to be released in stores December 22-- suckers), which I actually played (don't play much Wii) and enjoyed. It was hard not seeing Mike in the game, but Wolfgang is the current bassist, and the game is centered on how the band looks now (until they give Roth the boot)-- at least it's current as far as I've gotten in the game, which isn't terribly far. And, finally, I preordered a copy of Star Wars: The Clone Wars Season 1 on BluRay for $35, which is pretty good (Best Buy is selling it for $49 right now in stores).
Pretty damn good week.
It'll be tough to top that week, but I came pretty close in just a single day.
Let's go back just a little more. I saw the movie Up last spring. It kicked my ass with how good it was. I couldn't wait to get it on DVD; and after I bought a BluRay player this summer, I couldn't wait to get in on BluRay Disc. Now combine that with a visit I had with my movie/DVD/sci fi guru Tom this summer, who gave me hints on how to find good DVD/BluRay deals. I was on a mission to get Up-- and pay as little as possible for it (not that it's not worth full price; just that finding it cheap was a bit of an adventure).
So I scoured the internet and found as many deals, coupons, price match opportunities and the like I could use, and I had a plan. I was going to score the Up 4 disc (Blu Ray film, BluRay extras, DVD of film, and digital copy of film) as well as Monsters, Inc 4-disc for about $24. Not the best deal I knew about, but the one I was willing to go for because it didn't involve too many things that could end up being roadblocks (after a certain point, stores don't like dealing with you when you're practically getting stuff for free).
So yesterday (Tuesday, the day the movies were released to stores) was a tough one to sit through. I was riding in the carpool, so I didn't have a car (my bad for not scheduling myself to drive, I guess)-- and I wasn't going to make a special trip to the nearest city to pick them up. So I was as jittery as a crack addict looking for his fix.
So today I woke up, ran to the computer, and printed off the final coupon I needed for my adventure (a $10 off Up that didn't become available until the release date). Then I had to sit through another day of work with visions of Pixar-created goodness dancing in my head.
Now the good things about today:
There was meeting on the floor I reside on in my office building, and those usually are good opportunities to score a free lunch. Which I did. I snaked a lunch yesterday as well to use as my early supper today (donating plasma-- gotta keep my protein up). Double good things.
I was able to convince the people I talked to at work that I gave a shit about what they were telling me. Always a good day when I accomplish that.
I didn't find anyone to give me a ride to a store to buy my BluRays during lunch (didn't try hard; just was looking for someone "going my way"). What looked like a bad thing, ended up good (because I did better at night than I probably would have during the day).
Another bad break: I left my reading book (Russell Brand's My Booky Wook) in the person's car I was riding with when she dropped me off. Very bad-- it was the only book I had, and sitting in that chair while donating plasma without a book is torture. So I exceeded the speed limit, hit the lights just right, and headed to my favorite bookstore before I had to donate. Ran to the clearance section to grab a book and stumbled on Ricky Gervais presents The World of Karl Pinkerton based on the popular podcast I haven't heard yet. I'm not always entranced by Gervais (even though I consider him as close to a comedy genius as it gets), but the book was $3-- and it gave me something to read.
Oh yeah, I also grabbed the Invasion complete series I had been eyeing for months for $12 with a coupon. Score!
I donated plasma, and they had me turned up a little high, so I blew through it (without blowing a vein) in about 50 minutes (ten less than usual). Good deal. Got halfway through my new book while I pumped my arm... Another bonus.
Now the big part: My trip to Best Buy to buy my BluRays. I picked up my two sets and visited the game section because BB was also offering the Up game for Nintendo DS for $10 if you bought the BluRay. I'm sure the game isn't spectacular (most games based on movies aren't), but it was $10 and makes a nice Christmas present for that price.
So, the moment of truth... I walked up to the cash register with what should have rung up at just under $53 based on prices in the ad (and close to $75 retail priced). I lucked out and got a new cashier (because he didn't know what he was doing). He called someone else over to help (always a good sign; the helper usually has his own station to watch, so is in a hurry). The helper agreed to price match bestbuy.com's price for Up for $19.99 instead of the $23.99 in the ad ("It's not company policy to meet the website's price, but any manager will end up doing it.") My first break. But then the damn specials in the ad didn't ring up right ($10 off Monsters if bought with Up as well as the DS game deal), so a manager had to be called in to override. Break #2.
Managers are even busier than helpers, so she blasted through the overrides-- and gave me an extra mystery $10 off (oops). When all was said and done; I had my price matches, ad deals, and the manager walked away, and my total came to $41. The cashier and his helper breathed a sigh of relief.
Then I pulled out my $18 worth of Disney manufacturers coupons, and brought the total down to $23 for 2 BluRay 4-disc sets and a DS game. That included tax.
Best day ever.
After that, I drove home, listening to the mix CD my music/internet site guru Brian made for me to get me cultured in Joe Satriani (guitar virtuosos usually keep me away with the overly-high tuned guitars, so Brian made sure I got to experience the real Satch because I needed to bone up on my Chickenfoot members aside from the Red Rocker and Mad Anthony) . I'll tell you, being completly amped up after a big deal and listening to "If I Could Fly", "Surfing With the Alien", "Satch Boogie", and "Always With Me, Always With You" on the drive really makes a man feel good.
I got home and watched the tape of the Veteran's Day program my kids' school hosted today. My Kindergartener had one of the toughest lines (long, with larger words-- especially for a kindergartener) among the kids from K-5, and he nailed it. And my second grader started coming down with a cold earlier that day, but he still sang along with the others. He was a little trooper. A great capper to a great day to see them perform.
Well, almost the capper. After I put the boys to bed, I did watch tonight's episode of Glee-- and adored it. The last few episodes weren't as jaw droppingly good as the first few (still an excellent show, don't get me wrong), but tonight's ep was wonderful. I laughed and even cried a little. Got to see lots of "background" stuff on these people, and that always makes for a great episode of this show. There was a lot of heart to it-- and that's why I fell for the show in the first place.
And I suppose the final part of this best day ever was that I actually managed to make a post in this blog...
It posted on Thursday only because I proofread it. It was written and finished on Wednesday. I promise...
I admit, I got a bit burned out by doing that whole birthday thing (let's not discuss how long ago that was). Then I found I couldn't embed clips from E! online here anymore (I guess that's not a big loss, the clips disappeared after a short time anyway). And I've been a little anti-computer lately; I don't even do much for my Fantasy Football team (which has sucked pretty hard this year) beyond an hour or so a week making sure I don't have anyone hurt or on bye week starting for me. And my computer is nearing the end of its useful life (at least in terms of having 1-3 other people logged on it at a time); eating up the available memory and slowing anything I want to do down.
And then I read a book called The Narcissism Epidemic which claimed that things like MySpace and blogs are causes as well as effects of the increased narcissistic nature of our society. So I've been wondering if posting about what I think is just part of that societal trend, or if my original purpose still held up. (That purpose being a more passive way to express what I write in e-mails to friends in a format that is not "forced" like reading an e-mail; people have to go to this website, which leads me to believe they come here for a reason beyond the duty one would feel to read an e-mail from me.)
BTW: I think I've stuck to my original intent.
Except for this post. In this post, I'm gonna talk about my day... A lot... This one is about "me me me".
Deal with it.
Let's go back a few weeks; back to the time when I almost wrote a post called Best Week Ever...?
That week was potentially my best because I scored some really cheap ($1 & $3) CDs that were either new or very much like new. I also got a few slightly used Marvel Essential TPBs (massive books containing reprints of 20-25 issues of old comics) that retail for $16-18 for $1-$3. I got my backordered copy of Van Halen: The Visual History, 1978-1984 (used a gift card from my birthday along with a coupon and only paid a couple of buck out of pocket). I found Paul Feig's book Kick Me!-- which is hilarious and highly recommended-- for half price. Grabbed Smallville Season 5 used DVD set for $10. And I got my advance copy of the Wii game Guitar Hero: Van Halen (due to be released in stores December 22-- suckers), which I actually played (don't play much Wii) and enjoyed. It was hard not seeing Mike in the game, but Wolfgang is the current bassist, and the game is centered on how the band looks now (until they give Roth the boot)-- at least it's current as far as I've gotten in the game, which isn't terribly far. And, finally, I preordered a copy of Star Wars: The Clone Wars Season 1 on BluRay for $35, which is pretty good (Best Buy is selling it for $49 right now in stores).
Pretty damn good week.
It'll be tough to top that week, but I came pretty close in just a single day.
Let's go back just a little more. I saw the movie Up last spring. It kicked my ass with how good it was. I couldn't wait to get it on DVD; and after I bought a BluRay player this summer, I couldn't wait to get in on BluRay Disc. Now combine that with a visit I had with my movie/DVD/sci fi guru Tom this summer, who gave me hints on how to find good DVD/BluRay deals. I was on a mission to get Up-- and pay as little as possible for it (not that it's not worth full price; just that finding it cheap was a bit of an adventure).
So I scoured the internet and found as many deals, coupons, price match opportunities and the like I could use, and I had a plan. I was going to score the Up 4 disc (Blu Ray film, BluRay extras, DVD of film, and digital copy of film) as well as Monsters, Inc 4-disc for about $24. Not the best deal I knew about, but the one I was willing to go for because it didn't involve too many things that could end up being roadblocks (after a certain point, stores don't like dealing with you when you're practically getting stuff for free).
So yesterday (Tuesday, the day the movies were released to stores) was a tough one to sit through. I was riding in the carpool, so I didn't have a car (my bad for not scheduling myself to drive, I guess)-- and I wasn't going to make a special trip to the nearest city to pick them up. So I was as jittery as a crack addict looking for his fix.
So today I woke up, ran to the computer, and printed off the final coupon I needed for my adventure (a $10 off Up that didn't become available until the release date). Then I had to sit through another day of work with visions of Pixar-created goodness dancing in my head.
Now the good things about today:
There was meeting on the floor I reside on in my office building, and those usually are good opportunities to score a free lunch. Which I did. I snaked a lunch yesterday as well to use as my early supper today (donating plasma-- gotta keep my protein up). Double good things.
I was able to convince the people I talked to at work that I gave a shit about what they were telling me. Always a good day when I accomplish that.
I didn't find anyone to give me a ride to a store to buy my BluRays during lunch (didn't try hard; just was looking for someone "going my way"). What looked like a bad thing, ended up good (because I did better at night than I probably would have during the day).
Another bad break: I left my reading book (Russell Brand's My Booky Wook) in the person's car I was riding with when she dropped me off. Very bad-- it was the only book I had, and sitting in that chair while donating plasma without a book is torture. So I exceeded the speed limit, hit the lights just right, and headed to my favorite bookstore before I had to donate. Ran to the clearance section to grab a book and stumbled on Ricky Gervais presents The World of Karl Pinkerton based on the popular podcast I haven't heard yet. I'm not always entranced by Gervais (even though I consider him as close to a comedy genius as it gets), but the book was $3-- and it gave me something to read.
Oh yeah, I also grabbed the Invasion complete series I had been eyeing for months for $12 with a coupon. Score!
I donated plasma, and they had me turned up a little high, so I blew through it (without blowing a vein) in about 50 minutes (ten less than usual). Good deal. Got halfway through my new book while I pumped my arm... Another bonus.
Now the big part: My trip to Best Buy to buy my BluRays. I picked up my two sets and visited the game section because BB was also offering the Up game for Nintendo DS for $10 if you bought the BluRay. I'm sure the game isn't spectacular (most games based on movies aren't), but it was $10 and makes a nice Christmas present for that price.
So, the moment of truth... I walked up to the cash register with what should have rung up at just under $53 based on prices in the ad (and close to $75 retail priced). I lucked out and got a new cashier (because he didn't know what he was doing). He called someone else over to help (always a good sign; the helper usually has his own station to watch, so is in a hurry). The helper agreed to price match bestbuy.com's price for Up for $19.99 instead of the $23.99 in the ad ("It's not company policy to meet the website's price, but any manager will end up doing it.") My first break. But then the damn specials in the ad didn't ring up right ($10 off Monsters if bought with Up as well as the DS game deal), so a manager had to be called in to override. Break #2.
Managers are even busier than helpers, so she blasted through the overrides-- and gave me an extra mystery $10 off (oops). When all was said and done; I had my price matches, ad deals, and the manager walked away, and my total came to $41. The cashier and his helper breathed a sigh of relief.
Then I pulled out my $18 worth of Disney manufacturers coupons, and brought the total down to $23 for 2 BluRay 4-disc sets and a DS game. That included tax.
Best day ever.
After that, I drove home, listening to the mix CD my music/internet site guru Brian made for me to get me cultured in Joe Satriani (guitar virtuosos usually keep me away with the overly-high tuned guitars, so Brian made sure I got to experience the real Satch because I needed to bone up on my Chickenfoot members aside from the Red Rocker and Mad Anthony) . I'll tell you, being completly amped up after a big deal and listening to "If I Could Fly", "Surfing With the Alien", "Satch Boogie", and "Always With Me, Always With You" on the drive really makes a man feel good.
I got home and watched the tape of the Veteran's Day program my kids' school hosted today. My Kindergartener had one of the toughest lines (long, with larger words-- especially for a kindergartener) among the kids from K-5, and he nailed it. And my second grader started coming down with a cold earlier that day, but he still sang along with the others. He was a little trooper. A great capper to a great day to see them perform.
Well, almost the capper. After I put the boys to bed, I did watch tonight's episode of Glee-- and adored it. The last few episodes weren't as jaw droppingly good as the first few (still an excellent show, don't get me wrong), but tonight's ep was wonderful. I laughed and even cried a little. Got to see lots of "background" stuff on these people, and that always makes for a great episode of this show. There was a lot of heart to it-- and that's why I fell for the show in the first place.
And I suppose the final part of this best day ever was that I actually managed to make a post in this blog...
It posted on Thursday only because I proofread it. It was written and finished on Wednesday. I promise...
Monday, November 09, 2009
Sarah Silverman's Idea to Solve World Hunger
I don't always find her funny, but there are some good lines in this.
Oh yeah-- check out the comments about the video on YouTube. Some people just don't fuckin' get it...
If you don't either: it's a joke.
Lots of underlying truth, but the main target can't solve the problem itself.
Oh yeah-- check out the comments about the video on YouTube. Some people just don't fuckin' get it...
If you don't either: it's a joke.
Lots of underlying truth, but the main target can't solve the problem itself.
Sunday, November 08, 2009
Premieres and Notables; November 9-15, 2009
Monday, 11/9
Lincoln Heights (ABC Family; 7 & 7:30 pm CST). Season Finale.
The gang uses Alan Thicke to try to break up Barney and Robin on How I Met Your Mother (CBS; 7 pm CST).
The big C.S.I. crossover begins tonight on CSI: Miami (CBS; 9 pm CST).
Lopez Tonight; TBS. 10 pm CST. Series Premiere.
George Lopez gets a talk show.
Tuesday, 11/10
Sesame Street; PBS. 6 am (check local listings). 40th Season Premiere.
Let me spell that out: FORTIETH.
Wednesday, 11/11
The episode of Glee (FOX; 8 pm CST) that features the cast in wheelchairs during one number airs tonight. There's been a little buzz about it, so I thought I'd let you know.
Ghost Hunters Academy; Syfy. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Don't know-- and don't care-- what it's about...
Friday, 11/13
The Wonder Twins show up in Metropolis to help the Blur on Smallville (CW; 7 pm CST).
Sunday, 11/15
The Prisoner; AMC. 7 pm CST. Miniseries.
This six-part (2 hrs/night over three nights) miniseries tries to find the same magic of the '60s cult hit. From what I've read, it doesn't (but what do I know? I tried the original about 2 years ago and couldn't get past the second episode).
The Seinfeld cast gets together to read-through the script of the [fictitious] reunion special on Curb Your Enthusiasm (HBO; 8 pm CST).
WWII in HD; History. 8 pm CST. Mini-series.
2hrs/night for the next 5 nights showcases restored color footage of the war.
Super Dave's Spike-tacular; Spike. 10 pm. Mini-series.
Bob Einstein's Super Dave character returns in this 4-week series. I'm sure it'll be a tasteful affair seeing as it's on Spike...
Lincoln Heights (ABC Family; 7 & 7:30 pm CST). Season Finale.
The gang uses Alan Thicke to try to break up Barney and Robin on How I Met Your Mother (CBS; 7 pm CST).
The big C.S.I. crossover begins tonight on CSI: Miami (CBS; 9 pm CST).
Lopez Tonight; TBS. 10 pm CST. Series Premiere.
George Lopez gets a talk show.
Tuesday, 11/10
Sesame Street; PBS. 6 am (check local listings). 40th Season Premiere.
Let me spell that out: FORTIETH.
Wednesday, 11/11
The episode of Glee (FOX; 8 pm CST) that features the cast in wheelchairs during one number airs tonight. There's been a little buzz about it, so I thought I'd let you know.
Ghost Hunters Academy; Syfy. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Don't know-- and don't care-- what it's about...
Friday, 11/13
The Wonder Twins show up in Metropolis to help the Blur on Smallville (CW; 7 pm CST).
Sunday, 11/15
The Prisoner; AMC. 7 pm CST. Miniseries.
This six-part (2 hrs/night over three nights) miniseries tries to find the same magic of the '60s cult hit. From what I've read, it doesn't (but what do I know? I tried the original about 2 years ago and couldn't get past the second episode).
The Seinfeld cast gets together to read-through the script of the [fictitious] reunion special on Curb Your Enthusiasm (HBO; 8 pm CST).
WWII in HD; History. 8 pm CST. Mini-series.
2hrs/night for the next 5 nights showcases restored color footage of the war.
Super Dave's Spike-tacular; Spike. 10 pm. Mini-series.
Bob Einstein's Super Dave character returns in this 4-week series. I'm sure it'll be a tasteful affair seeing as it's on Spike...
Tuesday, November 03, 2009
Coolest Album Cover... Ever...?
I saw this pic in National Geographic a while back and thought it was awesome then.
On Sunday, I saw it in an ad for Wheezer's new album.
Still awesome.
On Sunday, I saw it in an ad for Wheezer's new album.
Still awesome.
Monday, November 02, 2009
Batman: Dead End
This short has been around a while, so I don't don't the exact story behind it. I think it had something to do with some aspiring filmmakers who put together this fan-film in order to show off their skills.
I think it came off very well. Aside from a Batsuit that doesn't work well on film (even though it's faithful to the comics) and an ending that I wouldn't have gone with, it's pretty damn good.
I think it came off very well. Aside from a Batsuit that doesn't work well on film (even though it's faithful to the comics) and an ending that I wouldn't have gone with, it's pretty damn good.
Sunday, November 01, 2009
Premieres and Notables: November 2-8, 2009
Monday, 11/2
Greek (ABC Family; 8 pm CST). Mid-Season Finale.
Tuesday, 11/3
V; ABC. 7 pm CST*. (Mini)-Series Premiere.
One of ABC's most-hyped series of the season begins tonight*. The first four eps are packed together as a sort of mini-series, and then the rest of the season will pick-up in March after the Winter Olympics.
I'm not sure how much of this follows the original mini-series (and sequel mini-- as well as the 19 ep series that followed-- although hardly anyone mentions those stories in anything I've read), but it looks like the premise is similar: Alien spaceships appear in the skies, offering to help humanity out with some issues (war, disease, etc). Not everyone is convinced of their giving nature.
I won't spoil it in case you missed the original, but it's safe to say The Visitors have some secrets they haven't shared with Earth.
The things I've read by critics about the show are pretty positive. I think it's safe to say this will be a pretty good series-- if the idiotic scheduling doesn't doom it.
*Special Note: the show premieres on Tuesday, unless you happen to live in the Green Bay, WI viewing area, at which point you (we) get to wait until 11:05pm on fucking Saturday to see it (unless you want to watch it on your itty-bitty computer monitor). Oh yeah: if you have to wait until Saturday, make sure you record long on it because it follows a football game.
[Can you imagine the boon the Green Bay Packers have to their area that one of ABC's major premieres can get bumped in favor of "Tuesday Night Touchback"? That the ratings/ad money for a weekly recap show can push back a network premiere? Dang.]
Flowers Uncut With Jeff Leatham; TLC. 9 pm. Series Premiere.
The above just confirms I'm a pretty full-service blogger.
I mean, this is a reality show about florists. They serve a wonderful purpose, but a TV reality show? Really?
Wednesday, 11/4
Bill Cosby: The Mark Twain Prize; PBS. 7:00 pm CST-- Check local listings. Special.
The Cos gets props from Willie Nelson, Phylicia Rashad, Chris Rock, and Jerry Seinfeld, among others.
Friday, 11/6
Spongebob Squarepants: Truth or Square; Nickelodeon. 7 pm CST. Special.
The tenth anniversary special combines animation as well as live action to take a never-before-seen trip down memory lane. Guests include: LeBron James, Craig Ferguson, Triumph the Insult Comic Dog, Tina Fey, Will Farrel, Robin Williams, and Pink. Oh yeah, the special is hosted by Ricky Gervais, which is all kinds of awesome.
Fanboy and Chum Chum; Nickelodeon. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Super-hero obsessed schoolmates find adventures in their everyday lives.
Platinum Babies; WE tv. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
A look at spoiled-ass babies.
It's interesting I see this type of show as I am in the middle of the book The Narcissism Epidemic, which makes a pretty good case that today's society is too spoiled. I was sure the authors may be looking a little too closely at some minor things-- but the fact this show is a reality kinda proves their point...
Like I mentioned a few days ago, Chickenfoot plays some tunes on Jimmy Kimmel's show tonight (ABC; 11:05 pm-- check local listings).
Saturday, 11/7
Legend of the Seeker; Syndicated. 3 pm CST (check local listings). Season Premiere.
Guest-starring one of my favorites: Charisma Carpenter.
The Wanda Sykes Show; FOX. 10 pm CST. Series Premiere.
A new talk show starring the comic of the title.
Sunday, 11/8
Bored to Death (HBO; 8:30 pm). Season Finale.
Mad Men (AMC; 9:00 pm). Season Finale.
Greek (ABC Family; 8 pm CST). Mid-Season Finale.
Tuesday, 11/3
V; ABC. 7 pm CST*. (Mini)-Series Premiere.
One of ABC's most-hyped series of the season begins tonight*. The first four eps are packed together as a sort of mini-series, and then the rest of the season will pick-up in March after the Winter Olympics.
I'm not sure how much of this follows the original mini-series (and sequel mini-- as well as the 19 ep series that followed-- although hardly anyone mentions those stories in anything I've read), but it looks like the premise is similar: Alien spaceships appear in the skies, offering to help humanity out with some issues (war, disease, etc). Not everyone is convinced of their giving nature.
I won't spoil it in case you missed the original, but it's safe to say The Visitors have some secrets they haven't shared with Earth.
The things I've read by critics about the show are pretty positive. I think it's safe to say this will be a pretty good series-- if the idiotic scheduling doesn't doom it.
*Special Note: the show premieres on Tuesday, unless you happen to live in the Green Bay, WI viewing area, at which point you (we) get to wait until 11:05pm on fucking Saturday to see it (unless you want to watch it on your itty-bitty computer monitor). Oh yeah: if you have to wait until Saturday, make sure you record long on it because it follows a football game.
[Can you imagine the boon the Green Bay Packers have to their area that one of ABC's major premieres can get bumped in favor of "Tuesday Night Touchback"? That the ratings/ad money for a weekly recap show can push back a network premiere? Dang.]
Flowers Uncut With Jeff Leatham; TLC. 9 pm. Series Premiere.
The above just confirms I'm a pretty full-service blogger.
I mean, this is a reality show about florists. They serve a wonderful purpose, but a TV reality show? Really?
Wednesday, 11/4
Bill Cosby: The Mark Twain Prize; PBS. 7:00 pm CST-- Check local listings. Special.
The Cos gets props from Willie Nelson, Phylicia Rashad, Chris Rock, and Jerry Seinfeld, among others.
Friday, 11/6
Spongebob Squarepants: Truth or Square; Nickelodeon. 7 pm CST. Special.
The tenth anniversary special combines animation as well as live action to take a never-before-seen trip down memory lane. Guests include: LeBron James, Craig Ferguson, Triumph the Insult Comic Dog, Tina Fey, Will Farrel, Robin Williams, and Pink. Oh yeah, the special is hosted by Ricky Gervais, which is all kinds of awesome.
Fanboy and Chum Chum; Nickelodeon. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Super-hero obsessed schoolmates find adventures in their everyday lives.
Platinum Babies; WE tv. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
A look at spoiled-ass babies.
It's interesting I see this type of show as I am in the middle of the book The Narcissism Epidemic, which makes a pretty good case that today's society is too spoiled. I was sure the authors may be looking a little too closely at some minor things-- but the fact this show is a reality kinda proves their point...
Like I mentioned a few days ago, Chickenfoot plays some tunes on Jimmy Kimmel's show tonight (ABC; 11:05 pm-- check local listings).
Saturday, 11/7
Legend of the Seeker; Syndicated. 3 pm CST (check local listings). Season Premiere.
Guest-starring one of my favorites: Charisma Carpenter.
The Wanda Sykes Show; FOX. 10 pm CST. Series Premiere.
A new talk show starring the comic of the title.
Sunday, 11/8
Bored to Death (HBO; 8:30 pm). Season Finale.
Mad Men (AMC; 9:00 pm). Season Finale.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Robocop Vs. Terminator
Not bad. Cool "surprise" near the end (even if it was only to advance the plot).
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Chickenfoot Update
Chickenfoot is releasing a Deluxe Limited Edition CD + DVD set on November 1 that will include the original album, the bonus track previously only available on vinyl or if you bought the album via download, and a DVD featuring videos, live performances and some interviews.
I read that a few people were pissed about it (granted, the album was released on June 6, so, you know, less than 4 months ago), but it's a fun band who made a great album (some people say it was mediocre, I say "What the Hell were you listening to?")
If you haven't picked it up yet (and over half a million people have as it's gone gold), it can be had on BestBuy.com for $9.99 (free shipping). Not bad-- even cheaper than the original album at Best Buy.
Or, you can walk into your local Best Buy like I did and hope someone screwed up and put it on the shelves like my local store did.
So, I picked up the set, asked for and got the online price match (otherwise it would have been $13.99) and just finished watching it.
If you don't already have the album, it's a great one to get (as much or less than just the single CD album). If you do have the album, it's not mandatory (unless you want the bonus track, "Bitten By the Wolf"). But you will be missing the whole thing.
The DVD was a fun combo of interviews found on the "12 Days of Chickenfoot" podcasts, mixed with backstage footage and lots of live performance footage. Not every song got the complete treatment (some were edited and others faded out before the solos). "Avenida Revolucion", "Sexy Little Thing", "Runnin' Out", "Get It Up", "My Kinda Girl", "Turnin' Left", "Learning to Fall", and "Bitten By the Wolf" were edited, but each had some cool moments. "Soap on a Rope", "Down the Drain" and "Future in the Past" got the entire song and the videos for "Oh Yeah" and "Soap on a Rope" were here as well.
I was a little disappointed that more songs weren't in their entirety, but I guess that's what the inevitable live DVD will be for.
The CD packaging is the opposite of the regular release (the black album that was heat sensitive). This time, the album is all white with black lettering. The DVD gave a hint to look at it under black light (guess I need to buy a black light...)
I can see some people being upset that a deluxe edition came out so soon, but I'm a fan (and a completist), so I don't really care. I spent a grand total of $30 so far on this album (the original CD, the downloaded album via iTunes-- to get the bonus song-- and now the Deluxe CD/DVD). I've spent more on buying the U.S. and Japanese versions of '90s albums.
So, again, if you like '80s/'90s hard rock, pick this one up. It doesn't feel "old", but it's very much in the vein of those types of fun albums. Not a lot of whining and preaching here.
Maybe you can take it home now, but if not, the longest you need to wait is five days.
And since I haven't linked to this one yet, here's a video NOT on the Deluxe DVD, it's so new:
"Sexy Little Thing":
And one last thing: Chickenfoot will be playing on Jimmy Kimmel on Nov 6. I read somewhere that they may even play two songs (I don't watch late-night talk shows, so I don't know if two is the usual for Kimmel; I do know it's unusual for the others who barely give you one).
I read that a few people were pissed about it (granted, the album was released on June 6, so, you know, less than 4 months ago), but it's a fun band who made a great album (some people say it was mediocre, I say "What the Hell were you listening to?")
If you haven't picked it up yet (and over half a million people have as it's gone gold), it can be had on BestBuy.com for $9.99 (free shipping). Not bad-- even cheaper than the original album at Best Buy.
Or, you can walk into your local Best Buy like I did and hope someone screwed up and put it on the shelves like my local store did.
So, I picked up the set, asked for and got the online price match (otherwise it would have been $13.99) and just finished watching it.
If you don't already have the album, it's a great one to get (as much or less than just the single CD album). If you do have the album, it's not mandatory (unless you want the bonus track, "Bitten By the Wolf"). But you will be missing the whole thing.
The DVD was a fun combo of interviews found on the "12 Days of Chickenfoot" podcasts, mixed with backstage footage and lots of live performance footage. Not every song got the complete treatment (some were edited and others faded out before the solos). "Avenida Revolucion", "Sexy Little Thing", "Runnin' Out", "Get It Up", "My Kinda Girl", "Turnin' Left", "Learning to Fall", and "Bitten By the Wolf" were edited, but each had some cool moments. "Soap on a Rope", "Down the Drain" and "Future in the Past" got the entire song and the videos for "Oh Yeah" and "Soap on a Rope" were here as well.
I was a little disappointed that more songs weren't in their entirety, but I guess that's what the inevitable live DVD will be for.
The CD packaging is the opposite of the regular release (the black album that was heat sensitive). This time, the album is all white with black lettering. The DVD gave a hint to look at it under black light (guess I need to buy a black light...)
I can see some people being upset that a deluxe edition came out so soon, but I'm a fan (and a completist), so I don't really care. I spent a grand total of $30 so far on this album (the original CD, the downloaded album via iTunes-- to get the bonus song-- and now the Deluxe CD/DVD). I've spent more on buying the U.S. and Japanese versions of '90s albums.
So, again, if you like '80s/'90s hard rock, pick this one up. It doesn't feel "old", but it's very much in the vein of those types of fun albums. Not a lot of whining and preaching here.
Maybe you can take it home now, but if not, the longest you need to wait is five days.
And since I haven't linked to this one yet, here's a video NOT on the Deluxe DVD, it's so new:
"Sexy Little Thing":
And one last thing: Chickenfoot will be playing on Jimmy Kimmel on Nov 6. I read somewhere that they may even play two songs (I don't watch late-night talk shows, so I don't know if two is the usual for Kimmel; I do know it's unusual for the others who barely give you one).
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Premieres and Notables; October 26- November 1, 2009
Monday, 10/26
Cake Boss; TLC. 9 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Tuesday, 20/27
Monica: Still Standing; BET. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Monica, who I guess is a singer, gets her own reality show.
Real Sports With Bryant Gumbel; HBO. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Hmmm. I didn't know this show-- which airs a new ep once a month-- had seasons.
But this is the perfect opportunity to mention it here. This is news-style TV at its best. Even if you don't follow sports (I sure don't), this show will hook you with its look at the humans and the issues behind the scores. Highly Recommended
Wednesday, 10/28
Monsters vs. Aliens: Mutant Pumpkins From Outer Space; NBC. 7:00 pm CST. Special
The movie was okay (cute enough), but this half-shour special got some nice reviews, so it may be worth checking out.
Friday Night Lights; DirecTV Ch. 101. 8 pm CST. 4th Season Premiere.
Anyone who watches this show loves it, so give it a try. If you don't get DirecTV, then you'll have to wait for NBC to air it next year or wait even longer for the DVDs.
And this ep is directed by the film's and the pilot's director, Peter Berg...
Highly Recommended
Thursday, 10/29
Ace of Cakes (Food; 9 pm CST) Season Finale.
Didn't this just have a season premiere a couple of weeks ago?
The League; FX. 9:30 pm CST. Series Premiere.
A comedy that follows the players of a fantasy football league. God knows there's lots of funny to be had in the concept; not sure how the execution will work, though...
Saturday, 10/31
Shelldon; Qubo. 11:30 am CST. Series Premiere.
Something about a shellfish who goes on adventures in the water that follow a "green" theme.
My question is: What the Hell is Qubo?
The Locator (WE; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Cake Boss; TLC. 9 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Tuesday, 20/27
Monica: Still Standing; BET. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Monica, who I guess is a singer, gets her own reality show.
Real Sports With Bryant Gumbel; HBO. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Hmmm. I didn't know this show-- which airs a new ep once a month-- had seasons.
But this is the perfect opportunity to mention it here. This is news-style TV at its best. Even if you don't follow sports (I sure don't), this show will hook you with its look at the humans and the issues behind the scores. Highly Recommended
Wednesday, 10/28
Monsters vs. Aliens: Mutant Pumpkins From Outer Space; NBC. 7:00 pm CST. Special
The movie was okay (cute enough), but this half-shour special got some nice reviews, so it may be worth checking out.
Friday Night Lights; DirecTV Ch. 101. 8 pm CST. 4th Season Premiere.
Anyone who watches this show loves it, so give it a try. If you don't get DirecTV, then you'll have to wait for NBC to air it next year or wait even longer for the DVDs.
And this ep is directed by the film's and the pilot's director, Peter Berg...
Highly Recommended
Thursday, 10/29
Ace of Cakes (Food; 9 pm CST) Season Finale.
Didn't this just have a season premiere a couple of weeks ago?
The League; FX. 9:30 pm CST. Series Premiere.
A comedy that follows the players of a fantasy football league. God knows there's lots of funny to be had in the concept; not sure how the execution will work, though...
Saturday, 10/31
Shelldon; Qubo. 11:30 am CST. Series Premiere.
Something about a shellfish who goes on adventures in the water that follow a "green" theme.
My question is: What the Hell is Qubo?
The Locator (WE; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Smackdown: Jesus vs. Satan
If I believed in Hell, I'd be afraid I'd be going there when I die for posting this clip.
But let's take it for what it is, a stupid wrestling "create-a-game" with some rasslin'-style commentary (one "good" play-by-play guy and a "bad" color commentator.).
Besides, some of the jokes, sacreligious as they are, are pretty funny...
But let's take it for what it is, a stupid wrestling "create-a-game" with some rasslin'-style commentary (one "good" play-by-play guy and a "bad" color commentator.).
Besides, some of the jokes, sacreligious as they are, are pretty funny...
Sunday, October 18, 2009
MIRACLE Speech
I saw this on some web show (Tosh.0 or Web Soup; I can't remember), and thought it was funny as well as accurate.
Four-year old "Rizzo" gives the speech Kurt Russell's Herb Brooks gave right before the game against the Soviets in the 1980 Olympics. "Screw 'em". Love it.
And here is the original, for comparison:
Four-year old "Rizzo" gives the speech Kurt Russell's Herb Brooks gave right before the game against the Soviets in the 1980 Olympics. "Screw 'em". Love it.
And here is the original, for comparison:
Premieres and Notables; October 19-25, 2009
iParticipate Week begins, where 60 shows on the four major networks will have some sort of community service element; either a plotline or a public service announcements starring the shows' actors. I'm sure some Republican jackass will poo-poo the whole thing. Like volunteering will be the end of civiliazation or some such nonsense...
Tuesday, 10/20
Shark Tank (ABC; 7 pm CST) Season Finale.
Flipping Out (Bravo; 9 pm CST) Season Finale.
Wednesday, 10/21
Lock 'n' Load; Showtime. 7 pm CST. Series Premiere.
A new reality show where a former actor/current gun salesman in Colorado is followed.
Living With Ed; Planet Green. 8 pm. Season Premiere.
Thursday, 10/22
The Jeff Dunham Show; Comedy Central. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
The ventiloquist brings his favorite characters with him on this show.
Friday, 10/23
Neil Patrick Harris lends his voice to the newly created Batman villain, the Music Meister on Batman: The Brave and the Bold (Cartoon Network; 6 pm).
White Collar; USA. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Something about a con-artist teaming up with an FBI agent-- with the requisite comedy USA dramas are known for...
Tuesday, 10/20
Shark Tank (ABC; 7 pm CST) Season Finale.
Flipping Out (Bravo; 9 pm CST) Season Finale.
Wednesday, 10/21
Lock 'n' Load; Showtime. 7 pm CST. Series Premiere.
A new reality show where a former actor/current gun salesman in Colorado is followed.
Living With Ed; Planet Green. 8 pm. Season Premiere.
Thursday, 10/22
The Jeff Dunham Show; Comedy Central. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
The ventiloquist brings his favorite characters with him on this show.
Friday, 10/23
Neil Patrick Harris lends his voice to the newly created Batman villain, the Music Meister on Batman: The Brave and the Bold (Cartoon Network; 6 pm).
White Collar; USA. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Something about a con-artist teaming up with an FBI agent-- with the requisite comedy USA dramas are known for...
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Premieres and Notables; October 12-18, 2009
Monday, 10/12
The Rachel Zoe Project (Bravo; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Million Dollar Listing; Bravo. 10 pm. Season Premiere.
Tuesday, 10/13
Hell's Kitchen (FOX; 7 pm CST). Season Finale.
Wednesday, 10/14
Alaska State Troopers; National Geographic. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
COPS in Alaska.
Nip/Tuck; FX. 9 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Thursday, 10/15
Hmmm... What is this? Two consecutive funny episodes of Parks & Recreation (NBC; 7:30 CST)? I wouldn't have believed it three weeks ago, but the last two eps of P&R were pretty good. If you've decided to skip it after their usual unfunny eps, you may want to try it again...
30 Rock; NBC. 8:30 pm CST. 4th Season Premiere.
Friday, 10/16
Ugly Betty; ABC. 7 pm CST. Season Premiere.
I know I had this one last week, but ABC saw fit to back the premiere out a week, so let's try again.
Psych (USA; 9 pm CST). Mid-season finale.
Bartender Wars; Fine Living. 9:30 pm. Season Premiere.
Saturday, 10/19
Head Games; Science Channel. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Whoopi Goldberg exec-produces this science-based trivia game show hosted by Greg Proops.
Sunday, 10/18
The Simpsons (FOX; 7 pm CST) hold their annual "Treehouse of Horror" epsiode.
Occupation; BBC America. 7 pm CST. Movie.
A gritty drama about three soldiers returning home-- but are unable to leave the war behind. It's supposed to be pretty good.
Monty Python: Almost the Truth (The Lawyer's Cut); IFC. 8 pm CST. Mini-series.
A six-part documentary about the Python gang. I've read this doc is pretty good-- but I never got into the actual Python series.
The Rachel Zoe Project (Bravo; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Million Dollar Listing; Bravo. 10 pm. Season Premiere.
Tuesday, 10/13
Hell's Kitchen (FOX; 7 pm CST). Season Finale.
Wednesday, 10/14
Alaska State Troopers; National Geographic. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
COPS in Alaska.
Nip/Tuck; FX. 9 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Thursday, 10/15
Hmmm... What is this? Two consecutive funny episodes of Parks & Recreation (NBC; 7:30 CST)? I wouldn't have believed it three weeks ago, but the last two eps of P&R were pretty good. If you've decided to skip it after their usual unfunny eps, you may want to try it again...
30 Rock; NBC. 8:30 pm CST. 4th Season Premiere.
Friday, 10/16
Ugly Betty; ABC. 7 pm CST. Season Premiere.
I know I had this one last week, but ABC saw fit to back the premiere out a week, so let's try again.
Psych (USA; 9 pm CST). Mid-season finale.
Bartender Wars; Fine Living. 9:30 pm. Season Premiere.
Saturday, 10/19
Head Games; Science Channel. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Whoopi Goldberg exec-produces this science-based trivia game show hosted by Greg Proops.
Sunday, 10/18
The Simpsons (FOX; 7 pm CST) hold their annual "Treehouse of Horror" epsiode.
Occupation; BBC America. 7 pm CST. Movie.
A gritty drama about three soldiers returning home-- but are unable to leave the war behind. It's supposed to be pretty good.
Monty Python: Almost the Truth (The Lawyer's Cut); IFC. 8 pm CST. Mini-series.
A six-part documentary about the Python gang. I've read this doc is pretty good-- but I never got into the actual Python series.
Hitler Doesn't Like TWILIGHT
Maybe you're sick of seeing these Hitler parodies...
But are you as sick of hearing about fucking Twilight as I am?
But are you as sick of hearing about fucking Twilight as I am?
Sunday, October 04, 2009
Premieres and Notables; October 5-11, 2009
Sorry for not having anything post the past few days. My friends at eonline/the soup decided to not offer the code to embed videos anymore. I'll still make a Condensed Soup link, but I won't be doing any others (unless they're really good). The Soup website changes every couple of months, so maybe they'll go back to having a working embed code (they have an embed code now, but it doesn't work-- unless it's for another site like FaceBook; I don't know).
Quick notes on last week's watching:
With the amount of TV I watch, I can't afford DVR space to record HighDef television, but I knew I had to figure out a way to see Ken Burns' National Parks: America's Best Idea mini-series in HD. Through some hardcore TV watching/DVR deleting, I was able to get the space needed. It was worth it. I'm only half-way through the 12 hours, but it has been amazing to see in HD-- especially the first ep dealing with Yellowtone and Yosemite. I just wish PBS would have aired 2 hrs/week; that 12 hrs/6 days was a killer. I think BestBuy is going to sell the BluRay set for about $90 this week. I'm not sure it's worth that price (which is pretty cheap on a per-hour basis), but is was beautiful (and informative).
Accidentally on Purpose got deleted from my DVR schedule after I watched the second ep. Don't have time to see if it actually gets funny. What a turd.
My Glee love is starting to get just a small tarnish. Two parts on last week's ep disappointed me as being too unbelievable, but I kept reminding myself that the story is what matters-- and some of the unbelievable bits are there to serve the story. It's still great TV.
I held out way longer than I should have, but 'Til Death also got the DVR boot. Mercy is on its way; just want to watch the second ep to be sure. I may not even get to The Good Wife or The Forgotten before I purge the DVR of them.
The Middle (ABC; Wed, 7:30 pm CST) was pretty good. Hank (ABC; Wed, 7 pm CST) not so much. Flashforward's (ABC; Thurs, 7:00 pm CST) pilot was great; haven't gotten to ep 2 yet. Community's (NBC; Thurs, now at 7:00 pm) second ep was just as good as its first.
And I'm trying to catch up with last year's Californication, but I ran into a roadblock after the first ep. Hank gets a vasectomy, but wears jeans after the procedure and then goes to a party that night. For real? I was in a coma most of the first day and stuck on a chair the next two days with frozen peas on my junk. I don't expect lots of reality on my shows (especially that one), but that was a bit much.
Okay, here's this week's notables:
Monday, 10/5
Sherri; Lifetime. 6 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Sherri Shepherd stars in a comedy loosely based on her life (maybe her character will take a walk to see the edge of the world).
Rita Rocks; Lifetime. 6:30 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
The Mo'Nique Show; BET. 10 pm. Series Premiere.
The comedian gets her own talk show.
Tuesday, 10/6
Kings Ransom; ESPN. 7 pm. Special
For its 30th birthday, ESPN enlisted some famous directors to make a documentary about a major sports event from the past 30 years. Peter Berg gets the first doc, and he chose to focus on the L.A. Kings trade that "stole" Wayne Gretzkey from Edmonton.
Scare Tactics; Syfy. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Parking Wars; A&E. 9 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Now in Detroit Rock City.
Wednesday, 10/7
Mythbusters; Discovery. 8 pm. Season Premiere.
South Park; Comedy Central. 9:00 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Let's all cross our fingers that the shows gets funny and satirical again after the last two, weak seasons.
Secret Girlfriend; Comedy Central. 9:30 pm CST. Series Premiere.
The main character is portrayed through the camera lense (kinda like a first-person shooter game; making the viewer the main character. I've read two things about it, and they both said the show is pretty bad. (got 1 out of 10 in TV Guide and a D in Entertainment Weekly).
Thursday, 10/8
This Old House; PBS. 7 pm. 30th Season Premiere.
Pam and Jim get married in a special hour-long episode of The Office (NBC; 8 pm).
Leonard Nimoy returns as a guest star on Fringe (FOX; 8 pm).
Friday, 10/9
Ugly Betty; ABC. 7 pm CST. 4th Season Premiere.
First it gets premiered a week or two later than the other shows, and then its now on Fridays... Owch.
Dog Whisperer; National Geographic. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
The Wizards of Waverly Place; Disney Channel. 7 pm CST. 3rd Season Premiere.
Not that you'd know there hasn't been anything new in a while the way Disney has been pimping Selena Gomez...
Saturday, 10/10
Wanday Sykes: I'ma Be Me; HBO. 9 pm. Special.
Sunday, 10/11
Army Wives (Lifetime; 9 pm) Season Finale.
Californication; Showtime. 9 pm CST. 3rd Season Premiere.
Rick Springfield gets a four-episode guest starring arc this season. It's bound to be pretty hardcore.
Quick notes on last week's watching:
With the amount of TV I watch, I can't afford DVR space to record HighDef television, but I knew I had to figure out a way to see Ken Burns' National Parks: America's Best Idea mini-series in HD. Through some hardcore TV watching/DVR deleting, I was able to get the space needed. It was worth it. I'm only half-way through the 12 hours, but it has been amazing to see in HD-- especially the first ep dealing with Yellowtone and Yosemite. I just wish PBS would have aired 2 hrs/week; that 12 hrs/6 days was a killer. I think BestBuy is going to sell the BluRay set for about $90 this week. I'm not sure it's worth that price (which is pretty cheap on a per-hour basis), but is was beautiful (and informative).
Accidentally on Purpose got deleted from my DVR schedule after I watched the second ep. Don't have time to see if it actually gets funny. What a turd.
My Glee love is starting to get just a small tarnish. Two parts on last week's ep disappointed me as being too unbelievable, but I kept reminding myself that the story is what matters-- and some of the unbelievable bits are there to serve the story. It's still great TV.
I held out way longer than I should have, but 'Til Death also got the DVR boot. Mercy is on its way; just want to watch the second ep to be sure. I may not even get to The Good Wife or The Forgotten before I purge the DVR of them.
The Middle (ABC; Wed, 7:30 pm CST) was pretty good. Hank (ABC; Wed, 7 pm CST) not so much. Flashforward's (ABC; Thurs, 7:00 pm CST) pilot was great; haven't gotten to ep 2 yet. Community's (NBC; Thurs, now at 7:00 pm) second ep was just as good as its first.
And I'm trying to catch up with last year's Californication, but I ran into a roadblock after the first ep. Hank gets a vasectomy, but wears jeans after the procedure and then goes to a party that night. For real? I was in a coma most of the first day and stuck on a chair the next two days with frozen peas on my junk. I don't expect lots of reality on my shows (especially that one), but that was a bit much.
Okay, here's this week's notables:
Monday, 10/5
Sherri; Lifetime. 6 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Sherri Shepherd stars in a comedy loosely based on her life (maybe her character will take a walk to see the edge of the world).
Rita Rocks; Lifetime. 6:30 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
The Mo'Nique Show; BET. 10 pm. Series Premiere.
The comedian gets her own talk show.
Tuesday, 10/6
Kings Ransom; ESPN. 7 pm. Special
For its 30th birthday, ESPN enlisted some famous directors to make a documentary about a major sports event from the past 30 years. Peter Berg gets the first doc, and he chose to focus on the L.A. Kings trade that "stole" Wayne Gretzkey from Edmonton.
Scare Tactics; Syfy. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Parking Wars; A&E. 9 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Now in Detroit Rock City.
Wednesday, 10/7
Mythbusters; Discovery. 8 pm. Season Premiere.
South Park; Comedy Central. 9:00 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Let's all cross our fingers that the shows gets funny and satirical again after the last two, weak seasons.
Secret Girlfriend; Comedy Central. 9:30 pm CST. Series Premiere.
The main character is portrayed through the camera lense (kinda like a first-person shooter game; making the viewer the main character. I've read two things about it, and they both said the show is pretty bad. (got 1 out of 10 in TV Guide and a D in Entertainment Weekly).
Thursday, 10/8
This Old House; PBS. 7 pm. 30th Season Premiere.
Pam and Jim get married in a special hour-long episode of The Office (NBC; 8 pm).
Leonard Nimoy returns as a guest star on Fringe (FOX; 8 pm).
Friday, 10/9
Ugly Betty; ABC. 7 pm CST. 4th Season Premiere.
First it gets premiered a week or two later than the other shows, and then its now on Fridays... Owch.
Dog Whisperer; National Geographic. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
The Wizards of Waverly Place; Disney Channel. 7 pm CST. 3rd Season Premiere.
Not that you'd know there hasn't been anything new in a while the way Disney has been pimping Selena Gomez...
Saturday, 10/10
Wanday Sykes: I'ma Be Me; HBO. 9 pm. Special.
Sunday, 10/11
Army Wives (Lifetime; 9 pm) Season Finale.
Californication; Showtime. 9 pm CST. 3rd Season Premiere.
Rick Springfield gets a four-episode guest starring arc this season. It's bound to be pretty hardcore.
Friday, October 02, 2009
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Laurel & Hardy "Party Train"
First off, I gotta say, I love Laurel and Hardy. Any chance you can get to check out their work on AMC or on DVD or something, do so. Completely brilliant entertainers who will be forgotten if we don't keep their memories alive.
Anyway, I ran across this video created and posted by YouTube's yark72. He said he didn't do anything to the video (which comes from the film Way Out West) to match it up with The Gap Band's "Party Train" song; it just came together naturally.
Check it out.
Anyway, I ran across this video created and posted by YouTube's yark72. He said he didn't do anything to the video (which comes from the film Way Out West) to match it up with The Gap Band's "Party Train" song; it just came together naturally.
Check it out.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Blue Suede Shoes Monster Jam
I'm not positive what the celebration was, but I believe it was for Les Paul (and a belated R.I.P. to the man who may have shaped rock music more than anyone else). I'm also not sure of the when, but I'd place it at the mid-'80s just from Edward Van Halen's appearance.
So, you've got Les Paul introducing the Stray Cats, who break into "Blue Suede Shoes". Then during the solo, Brian Seltzer calls out EVH, B.B. King, David Gilmour, Steve Miller, and Jan Hammer. Then Les finishes up the jam.
Not many stages have held that much talent on it before.
So, you've got Les Paul introducing the Stray Cats, who break into "Blue Suede Shoes". Then during the solo, Brian Seltzer calls out EVH, B.B. King, David Gilmour, Steve Miller, and Jan Hammer. Then Les finishes up the jam.
Not many stages have held that much talent on it before.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Premieres and Notables, September 28- October 4, 2009
Well, it was a pretty good week last week: How I Met Your Mother had some good stuff, Modern Family showed tons of promise, Cougartown was much better than I expected, Gary Unmarried conitunes to get better, Glee got more serious-- and pulled it off wonderfully, Curb Your Enthusiasm was just as wacky as it ever was.
And the bad: Two and a Half Men: pure shit. Accidentally on Purpose: better be funny this week, or it's off the DVR schedule.
And the first casualty of the new season? Kind of a surprise-- or maybe not as I saw NO press at all on it; I didn't even know enough about it to mention it on my blog. The CW axed The Beautiful Life: TBL after just two eps.
Let's see if this week can continue with good and cancel the bad:
Monday, 9/28
BrainSurge; Nickelodeon. 3:30 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Kids compete in a memory game.
Ted (on How I Met Your Mother; CBS, 7:00 pm CST) gets set up on a blind date-- with a woman he had a blind date with seven years earlier. --And he doesn't remember her...
Lie to Me FOX. 8 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
Trauma; NBC. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Did you like the big, explosive scenes on ER? Well, it looks like this show is full of them. San Fran paramedics help people all over the Bay Area. I actually got tired from just watching the couple-minute promo for the pilot. Too much.
Wednesday, 9/30
Hank; ABC. 7 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Kelsey Grammar stars as a wealthy New Yorker who gets downsized, so he has to move his family to Virginia. The promo didn't look that funny, but I'll check it out for a few weeks to be sure.
The Middle; ABC. 7:30 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Patricia Heaton and Neil (Scrub's "Janitor") Flynn star as parents in a modern household. The promo for this one did look funny. It's a little bit wacky (in a good way), so that should keep it from being boring.
Thursday, 10/1
Private Practice; ABC. 9:01 pm CST. 3rd Season Premiere.
Friday, 10/2
Star Wars: The Clone Wars; 7 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
Last season was uneven at times, but they've decided to bring back new bounty hunter Cad Bane as a recurring thorn in the Jedi's sides (and Bane brings friends as well-- many of whom we've already seen in the films). Also, Anakin heads down the Dark Side path more and more this season. May be worth trying again if you left through last season.
'Til Death; FOX. 7:30 pm CST. Season Premiere.
It has never been especially funny, but the addition of J.B. Smoove really brought some (and sometimes even alot of) humor to it. Unfortunately, Smoove wasn't brought back for the new season (BOOOOO!!!!) after yet another series retooling. But there are some eps left over from last season (when the piece of crap it got scheduled with bombed, and this show disappeared for ten months), so maybe they've got some Smoove in the can.
Stargate Universe; Syfy. 8 pm. Series Premiere.
The concept that couldn't die now has a group of people (including ones who look a lot like Robert Carlyle, Lou Diamond Phillips, and Ming-Na) jumping blindly through a Stargate that lands them on a gigantic starship billions of lightyears from home.
I've tried the Stargate shows every couple of years, and they've never grabbed me-- but this one just may do it. It's got a decent cast and and interesting concept.
Saturday, 10/3
SuperFetch; Animal Planet. 7 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Dog trailer Zak George teaches dogs to make a bed, ride a bike, and get a beer, among other things in this series.
Celebrity Ghost Stories; Bio. 9 pm. Season Premiere.
Sunday, 10/4
America's Funniest Home Videos; ABC. 6 pm CST. 1,000,000th Season Premiere.
Because nut-shots are always funny...
Dallas Divas and Daughters; Style. 7 pm. 6th Season Premiere.
How does a show get to season six, and I have never heard of it?
My Monkey Baby; TLC. 8 pm. Series Premiere.
A baby monkey and her adventure with her human "parents" who hook her up with stylish clothes and toys.
On a related note to the Dallas Divas from above: How does a show like this get made, and why do I have to hear about it?
The Next Iron Chef; Food Network. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Three Rivers; CBS. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
(Female) Fangasmic actor Alex O'Loughlin stars in the medical transplant drama.
(Why "fangasmic"? I'll bet if you Google his last show-- Moonlight-- you'll read much, much more about how hot and sexy he is than you will about the actual show.)
The Seinfeld "reunion" begins on tonight's Curb Your Enthusiasm (HBO; 9 pm). This season-long storyline promises to bring back the original cast as they film their reunion special (which is just for this show's storyline; it;'s not real).
Entourage (HBO; 9:30 pm CST.) Season Finale.
And the bad: Two and a Half Men: pure shit. Accidentally on Purpose: better be funny this week, or it's off the DVR schedule.
And the first casualty of the new season? Kind of a surprise-- or maybe not as I saw NO press at all on it; I didn't even know enough about it to mention it on my blog. The CW axed The Beautiful Life: TBL after just two eps.
Let's see if this week can continue with good and cancel the bad:
Monday, 9/28
BrainSurge; Nickelodeon. 3:30 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Kids compete in a memory game.
Ted (on How I Met Your Mother; CBS, 7:00 pm CST) gets set up on a blind date-- with a woman he had a blind date with seven years earlier. --And he doesn't remember her...
Lie to Me FOX. 8 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
Trauma; NBC. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Did you like the big, explosive scenes on ER? Well, it looks like this show is full of them. San Fran paramedics help people all over the Bay Area. I actually got tired from just watching the couple-minute promo for the pilot. Too much.
Wednesday, 9/30
Hank; ABC. 7 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Kelsey Grammar stars as a wealthy New Yorker who gets downsized, so he has to move his family to Virginia. The promo didn't look that funny, but I'll check it out for a few weeks to be sure.
The Middle; ABC. 7:30 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Patricia Heaton and Neil (Scrub's "Janitor") Flynn star as parents in a modern household. The promo for this one did look funny. It's a little bit wacky (in a good way), so that should keep it from being boring.
Thursday, 10/1
Private Practice; ABC. 9:01 pm CST. 3rd Season Premiere.
Friday, 10/2
Star Wars: The Clone Wars; 7 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
Last season was uneven at times, but they've decided to bring back new bounty hunter Cad Bane as a recurring thorn in the Jedi's sides (and Bane brings friends as well-- many of whom we've already seen in the films). Also, Anakin heads down the Dark Side path more and more this season. May be worth trying again if you left through last season.
'Til Death; FOX. 7:30 pm CST. Season Premiere.
It has never been especially funny, but the addition of J.B. Smoove really brought some (and sometimes even alot of) humor to it. Unfortunately, Smoove wasn't brought back for the new season (BOOOOO!!!!) after yet another series retooling. But there are some eps left over from last season (when the piece of crap it got scheduled with bombed, and this show disappeared for ten months), so maybe they've got some Smoove in the can.
Stargate Universe; Syfy. 8 pm. Series Premiere.
The concept that couldn't die now has a group of people (including ones who look a lot like Robert Carlyle, Lou Diamond Phillips, and Ming-Na) jumping blindly through a Stargate that lands them on a gigantic starship billions of lightyears from home.
I've tried the Stargate shows every couple of years, and they've never grabbed me-- but this one just may do it. It's got a decent cast and and interesting concept.
Saturday, 10/3
SuperFetch; Animal Planet. 7 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Dog trailer Zak George teaches dogs to make a bed, ride a bike, and get a beer, among other things in this series.
Celebrity Ghost Stories; Bio. 9 pm. Season Premiere.
Sunday, 10/4
America's Funniest Home Videos; ABC. 6 pm CST. 1,000,000th Season Premiere.
Because nut-shots are always funny...
Dallas Divas and Daughters; Style. 7 pm. 6th Season Premiere.
How does a show get to season six, and I have never heard of it?
My Monkey Baby; TLC. 8 pm. Series Premiere.
A baby monkey and her adventure with her human "parents" who hook her up with stylish clothes and toys.
On a related note to the Dallas Divas from above: How does a show like this get made, and why do I have to hear about it?
The Next Iron Chef; Food Network. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Three Rivers; CBS. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
(Female) Fangasmic actor Alex O'Loughlin stars in the medical transplant drama.
(Why "fangasmic"? I'll bet if you Google his last show-- Moonlight-- you'll read much, much more about how hot and sexy he is than you will about the actual show.)
The Seinfeld "reunion" begins on tonight's Curb Your Enthusiasm (HBO; 9 pm). This season-long storyline promises to bring back the original cast as they film their reunion special (which is just for this show's storyline; it;'s not real).
Entourage (HBO; 9:30 pm CST.) Season Finale.
Condensed SOUP: 9/25/09
Sorry-- the embed code wouldn't work, so here's the link to the website I get it from:
http://www.eonline.com/videos/v_HXYN3nBOXdKlqFHIVWz4RMWZfsC1865_condensed-soup,-sept.-25.html
http://www.eonline.com/videos/v_HXYN3nBOXdKlqFHIVWz4RMWZfsC1865_condensed-soup,-sept.-25.html
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Two Burritos and a Rootbeer Float
Here's Edward Van Halen's cameo in last week's season premiere of Two and a Half Men:
So, I thought it was great. Ed's not an actor, so he's on less than 30 seconds, plays a hot riff as you'd expect, and gets the best line of the episode (My VH pal Turd Ferguson said the next album should be named "Two Burritos and a Rootbeer Float". I agree.). Perfect appearance.
What wasn't so perfect: it was on this show. I went on an e-mail rant to Mr. Ferguson, which I'll copy-and-paste here because it needs to be said in public:
I remember really not enjoying Men after maybe the first or second season (and I never really did get into it even before then), and I have tried it once or twice a year (such as the CSI writer experiment) since, but this week's ep was brutal. I felt in pain when I watched it. Actual pain.
I like Jon Cryer. He seems to be a humble person who's grateful for his career, but he never should have won the Supporting Actor Emmy on Sunday. And then to say (or at least how I paraphrased it) that Sheen has been robbed by not yet having an Emmy was about the funniest thing said that night. Acting IS tough, and I'm sure Sheen works hard, but that show should be nowhere near the Emmys. Those guys shouldn't even be valet parking the limos at the Awards for being in Men.
I get the love these actors have for their parts-- especially lucrative parts that get high ratings-- but do they actually watch their show? A great actor in a terrible movie usually can't be blamed, but Sheen and Cryer have been on that show for years. They've got to have some show guidance control by now.
I just don't get how it's the #1 comedy. I've said it before, and I'll say it again: the average American is a moron.
I just can't handle how bad this show is. It was fucking painful to sit through last week. I'm no snob (you saw some of the "29 favorite shows" I listed last week), but this show is garbage. Shame on you Neilsen people who flip to CBS Monday at 8 pm CST and don't have the common courtesy to change the channel while you puke from watching it, so it gets high ratings. For Shame!
So, I thought it was great. Ed's not an actor, so he's on less than 30 seconds, plays a hot riff as you'd expect, and gets the best line of the episode (My VH pal Turd Ferguson said the next album should be named "Two Burritos and a Rootbeer Float". I agree.). Perfect appearance.
What wasn't so perfect: it was on this show. I went on an e-mail rant to Mr. Ferguson, which I'll copy-and-paste here because it needs to be said in public:
I remember really not enjoying Men after maybe the first or second season (and I never really did get into it even before then), and I have tried it once or twice a year (such as the CSI writer experiment) since, but this week's ep was brutal. I felt in pain when I watched it. Actual pain.
I like Jon Cryer. He seems to be a humble person who's grateful for his career, but he never should have won the Supporting Actor Emmy on Sunday. And then to say (or at least how I paraphrased it) that Sheen has been robbed by not yet having an Emmy was about the funniest thing said that night. Acting IS tough, and I'm sure Sheen works hard, but that show should be nowhere near the Emmys. Those guys shouldn't even be valet parking the limos at the Awards for being in Men.
I get the love these actors have for their parts-- especially lucrative parts that get high ratings-- but do they actually watch their show? A great actor in a terrible movie usually can't be blamed, but Sheen and Cryer have been on that show for years. They've got to have some show guidance control by now.
I just don't get how it's the #1 comedy. I've said it before, and I'll say it again: the average American is a moron.
I just can't handle how bad this show is. It was fucking painful to sit through last week. I'm no snob (you saw some of the "29 favorite shows" I listed last week), but this show is garbage. Shame on you Neilsen people who flip to CBS Monday at 8 pm CST and don't have the common courtesy to change the channel while you puke from watching it, so it gets high ratings. For Shame!
Friday, September 25, 2009
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Fave: The Wire 3: Sideways Cap
And the final clip of the day: the scene that made this show my favorite. It had NOTHING to do with the show or the storyline, but I could not pull my eyes from it after I watched it.
Fave: The Wire: Crime Scene
This is an early scene where I realized just how good this show could be.
An entire 4 minute scene with dialogue only consisting of variations on a single word. It was so brilliant, I didn't even realize what made it special until the scene was half over. Check of the direction and acting. An entire crime was solved without any discussion.
An entire 4 minute scene with dialogue only consisting of variations on a single word. It was so brilliant, I didn't even realize what made it special until the scene was half over. Check of the direction and acting. An entire crime was solved without any discussion.
Fave: The Wire: Series Opener
And now we're to my favorite show of all time.
A single clip can't do it justice, so I thought I'd just show the first scene of the first episode...
A single clip can't do it justice, so I thought I'd just show the first scene of the first episode...
Fave: Babylon 5: Londo Talks About Humans During the Earth-Minbari War
I really tried finding a clip of the beginning of this speech from the movie "In the Beginning" where a dying Londo describes the human race as being "loud". That was the moment I knew I'd love this show.
And love it I did. It remained my favorite TV show of all time (over ten years)-- until I watched The Wire last year.
This was the first show that really felt epic to me. It taught me what television is capable of: telling a story much bigger than it looked.
And love it I did. It remained my favorite TV show of all time (over ten years)-- until I watched The Wire last year.
This was the first show that really felt epic to me. It taught me what television is capable of: telling a story much bigger than it looked.
Fave: Real Time With Bill Maher: New Rules 8/14/09
I've mentioned this show before, so I won't get too into again. I don't always agree with Maher or his guests, but I appreciate how he really stands up for what he believes in. And yes, it helps that I agree with him more than I disagree with him. He gets good guests from both sides of the political and religious spectrums, and he asks them real questions and can get real answers.
And at the end of every episode, he offers up "New Rules". Some are funny, some are pretty mean, but they almost always need to be said, especially those that close out the show and start him off in his closing thoughts.
I could have included most any New Rules segment here, but I included one where he was tough on President Obama. Why? Because right wingers kept whining that he was too tough on that moron Bush, and I wanted to show that he'll call out anyone who doesn't do the job.
And at the end of every episode, he offers up "New Rules". Some are funny, some are pretty mean, but they almost always need to be said, especially those that close out the show and start him off in his closing thoughts.
I could have included most any New Rules segment here, but I included one where he was tough on President Obama. Why? Because right wingers kept whining that he was too tough on that moron Bush, and I wanted to show that he'll call out anyone who doesn't do the job.
Fave: Chappelle's Show: Rick James Pt 2
And here's Pt 2...
"What did the five fingers say to the face?"
"Cocaine is a helluva drug."
"Buy another one, you rich motherf*****."
"What did the five fingers say to the face?"
"Cocaine is a helluva drug."
"Buy another one, you rich motherf*****."
| Chappelle's Show | ||||
| True Hollywood Stories - Rick James Pt 2 | ||||
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Fave: Chappelle's Show: Rick James Pt 1
Chappelle's lunacy + Charlie Murphy's storytelling + Rick James contradicting nearly everything = One of the funniest bits of television I've ever seen.
I have the DVD sets, but I still HAVE to watch this bit every time I run across it.
I have the DVD sets, but I still HAVE to watch this bit every time I run across it.
| Chappelle's Show | ||||
| True Hollywood Stories - Rick James Pt. 1 | ||||
| ||||
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