Here it is: the biggest week of the year. Damn near every network TV series premieres in the next seven days.
[Because I'm going to get tired of typing it: all times are CST. Why? Because that's how I roll.]
Monday, 9/20
Dancing With the Stars; ABC. 7 pm. 10th Cycle Premiere.
How I Met Your Mother; CBS. 7 pm. 6th Season Premiere.
After a untypically weak season last year, the show returns with a renewed the purpose of getting to complete Ted's story. No promises we'll meet the titular mother, of course, but the show will be jumping around time more as it heads to the end.
House; Fox. 7 pm. 7th Season Premiere.
Chuck; NBC. 7 pm. 4th Season Premiere.
Rules of Engagement; CBS. 7:30 pm. 5th Season Premiere.
Two and a Half Men; CBS. 8 pm. 8th Season Premiere.
Lone Star; Fox. 8 pm. Series Premiere.
New sensation Jimmy Wolk stars as a con-man who is trying to go straight. There's also something about him living multiple lives with two wives. I don't know about this one. But Wolk did get high marks from many critics I've read...
The Event; NBC. 8 pm. Series Premiere.
Another brave attempt at having a show revolve around a mystery. In this case, "The Event" is the thing that changes everything; except we don't know what this event is. And I don't think we will find out until Season Two. But, in the meantime, we can only hope that actors such as Jason Ritter and Blair Underwood have material good enough to work with (both are great when given great work). I'll be checking it out...
Mike & Molly; CBS. 8:30 pm. Series Premiere.
Melissa McCarthy and Billy Gardell star in this show about plus-size people making a love connection. I'll give it a try, but I haven't read much good about it, The main complaint is there are too many "easy" fat jokes.
Castle; ABC, 9 pm. 3rd Season Premiere.
Hawaii Five-O; CBS. 9 pm. Series Premiere.
CBS gives Alex O'Loughlin his third show in three years (Moonlight and Three Rivers were one and done shows that got canned before the season finales), and this looks to be the one that sticks. The remake of the classic CBS series from 40 years ago also stars Daniel Day Kim, Scott Caan, and Grace Park, so there's a solid cast. Hopefully the shows doesn't try to get too cute and just tells solid stories. From what I've read, the pilot blows the doors off the place, so it has a good start.
The Chase; NBC. 9 pm. Series Premiere.
Producer Jerry Bruckheimer brings us this series about U.S. Marshall in pursuit of their "men".
Tuesday, 9/21
NCIS; CBS. 7 pm. 8th Season Premiere.
Glee; Fox. 7 pm. 2nd Season Premiere.
I'll be the first to admit the show has some weaknesses (sometimes it relies too much on cheap gimmicks to elicit an emotional response from viewers; some plots were exaggerated way beyond realism; and sometimes it seemed to force the musical numbers into the episodes), but they're easily overcome by the things that are great about it: the masterful use of music, the wonderful Jane Lynch, the hilarious lines and situations-- and Brittany, one of my favorite characters from all of TV last season. I mean, a cheerleader who has brilliant quotes such as "Dolphins are gay sharks," and "I think my cat has been reading my diary," cannot go wrong.
And I'm pretty pumped to know Brittany is going to get more screen time this year...
The Biggest Loser; NBC. 7 pm. 10th Cycle Premiere.
Unnatural History (Cartoon Network; 7 pm). Season Finale.
NCIS: Los Angeles; CBS. 8 pm. 2nd Season Premiere.
Raising Hope; Fox. 8 pm. Series Premiere.
My Name is Earl creator Greg Garcia brings yet another oddball show to the airwaves. This one finds a poolboy raising a baby he didn't even know he had. Supporting actors Martha Plimpton as his mom (mom?) and Cloris Leachman as his grandmother bring some Big Guns to the cast.
Running Wilde; Fox. 8:30 pm. Series Premiere.
Arrested Development producer Mitch Hurwitz and star Will Arnett come together again i n this show about a man (played by Arnett) who tries to buy the affections of a woman (Keri Russell) he's longed for most of his life. And the show is narrated by Russell's young daughter. Odd-- could be good, though.
Detroit 1-8-7; ABC. 9 pm. Series Premiere.
ABC gives a new, gritty police show NYPD Blue's old spot.
But this show is set in Detroit, and stars Michael Imperiloi (who got lots of props based on reviews I've read).
Wednesday, 9/22
The Middle; ABC. 7 pm. 2nd Season Premiere.
Modern Family got most of the hype last year, but this one was pretty solid as well. Check it out.
Hell's Kitchen; Fox. 7 pm. 8th Cycle Premiere.
Undercovers; Fox. 7 pm. Series Premiere.
J.J. Abrams created this show about a married couple who get brought back into the spy game. The lead actors are great-looking, and Abrams knows a little something about doing a great spy series (ever heard of Alias?-- at least the two seasons Abrams had his hands on).
Better With You; ABC. 7:30. Series Premiere.
Don't know hardly anything about it. Something about sisters in different stages of their relationships. Add their parents, and you've got three relationships.
Modern Family; ABC. 8 pm. 2nd Season Premiere.
Highly Recommended.
Criminal Minds; CBS. 8 pm. Season Premiere.
After some cast changes, this show continues where it left off.
Law & Order: SVU; NBC. 8 pm. 12th Season Premiere.
Cougartown; ABC. 8:31. 2nd Season Premiere.
Hopefully you ignored the stupid name and watched this show last season because this ended up being a very solid-- and very funny-- show. And tonight's premiere guest-stars Jennifer Aniston...
The Whole Truth; ABC. 9 pm. Series Premiere.
Rob Morrow and Maura Tierney star as opposing lawyers in this series that looks at a case from both sides of the courtroom.
The Defenders; CBS. 9 pm. Series Premiere.
James Belushi and Jerry O'Connell star as lawyers in this Vegas-based series with a light touch.
Thursday, 9/23
My Generation; ABC. 7 pm. Series Premiere.
A decade in the lives of nine friends is looked at in this new series.
The Big Bang Theory; CBS. 7 pm. 4th Season Premiere.
Sheldon gets a girlfriend.
Well, she's a girl-- and a friend.
Bones; Fox. 7 pm. 6th Season Premiere.
Community; NBC. 7 pm. 2nd Season Premiere.
One of the best shows of last year. Check it out.
And Betty White shows up tonight as a nutty anthropology prof.
$#*! My Dad Says; CBS. 7:30. Series Premiere.
This comedy based on the popular Twitter feed stars William Shatner, so, right there, you know it's got some potential (Shatner acting bat-shit crazy like on Boston Legal is a sure thing).
God knows about the rest of the show, though...
Oh yeah, let's get this out of the way: the title is said like "Bleep My Dad Says". Really easy.
And if you have no other reason to check it out, do it just because those d-bags at the PTC have already whined about the title. Censorship sucks, so stick it to those dinks by watching-- and buying the crap of the companies that buy commercial time for the show.
30 Rock; NBC. 7:30. Season Premiere.
Grey's Anatomy; ABC. 8 pm. 7th Season Premiere.
CSI; CBS. 8 pm. 11th Season Premiere.
Fringe; Fox. 8 pm. 3rd Season Premiere.
The Office; 8 pm. 7th Season Premiere.
Enjoy it while you can; it's Steve Carell's last season.
Outsourced; NBC. 8:30. Series Premiere.
This workplace comedy about an American who moves to India to work in a call center hasn't gotten much in the way of good reviews. Too bad; it's a decent concept.
Private Practice; ABC. 9 pm. 4th Season Premiere.
The Mentalist; CBS. 9 pm. 2nd Season Premiere.
Friday, 9/24
Medium; CBS. 7 pm. 7th Season Premiere.
Smallville; The CW. 7 pm. 10th Season Premiere.
Clark gets ever-closer to wearing the blue suit in this final season of the series.
CSI: NY; CBS. 8 pm. 7th Season Premiere.
Melina Kanakaredes is out and Sela Ward is in.
Supernatural; The CW. 8 pm. Season Premiere.
Word is: it could be the last season for the Winchester boys.
The Good Guys; Fox. 8 pm. 2nd Season Premiere.
After a few weeks off, this summer-season show returns for more.
The first season had some ups and downs, but Bradley Whitford engulfs his role as a washed-up, hard drinking, amazingly lucky cop. And Colin Hanks is perfect as his straight-laced-- and exasperated-- partner.
Fish Hooks; Disney. 8 pm. Series Premiere.
Three fish do their thing in this animated series.
No, I do not have any idea what "their thing" is. I was trying to be purposefully vague.
Blue Bloods; CBS. 9 pm. Series Premiere.
Tom Selleck, Bridget Moynaghan, Will Estes, and Donnie Wahlberg star in this family-based drama about NYC cops.
Saturday, 9/25
Sharktopus; Syfy. 8 pm. Movies.
So f-ing stupid, I had to mention it.
Shark head, octopus body.
Saturday Night Live; NBC. 10:30 pm. 36th Season Premiere.
I think it stars Tina Fey and Lady Gaga.
Doesn't matter; I'm sure it'll be crap.
Sunday, 9/26
Extreme Makeover: Home Edition; ABC. 6 pm. Season Premiere.
The Simpsons; Fox. 7 pm. 22nd Season Premiere.
Let me spell it out: twenty-second season.
The Amazing Race 17; CBS. 7:30 pm. Season Premiere.
Note the time; looks like CBS expects a late NFL game.
The Cleveland Show; Fox. 7:30 pm. 2nd Season Premiere.
Desperate Housewives; ABC. 8 pm. 7th Season Premiere.
Last season changed the status quo a bit, and it continues with Paul Young's return and the addition of Vanessa Williams to the cast. Good pick-up, there...
Family Guy; Fox. 8 pm. 9th Season Premiere.
Dexter; Showtime. 8 pm. 5th Season Premiere.
My biggest problem with this show (after seeing one season) is Dexter is completely unsympathetic.
Of course, after last season's shock ending, maybe he'll finally gain some sympathetic qualities...
Brothers and Sisters; ABC. 9:01. 5th Season Premiere.
I guess last year had cancer, business problems, car crashes, HIV...
Why not just drop a nuke on these people and put them out of their misery?
Undercover Boss; CBS. 9 pm. 2nd Season Premiere.
Bored to Death; HBO. 9 pm. 2nd Season Premiere.
I watched one ep last season, and the title fit it perfectly.
Eastbound & Down; 9:30. 2nd Season Premiere.
After Kenny pussed-out last season, he finds himself south instead of east in a Mexican league .
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Monday, September 13, 2010
Cee Lo Green-- "F*** You" Video
I love this video-- and the song is great as well.
Playful humor-- with a message.
Playful humor-- with a message.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Premieres and Notables; September 13-19, 2010
Next week is the big one. Use this week to empty out your DVR...
Firstly, one the mags missed last week:
Sunday, 9/12
The Venture Brothers; adult swim. Fall return.
Not technically a new season-- but it's been nine months since the last new episode...
It's a fun show that can sometimes be bat-shit crazy.
Monday, 9/13
Bachelor Pad (ABC; 7 pm CST). Season Finale.
90210; The CW. 7 pm CST. 3rd Season Premiere.
Gossip Girl; The CW. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Lie to Me (Fox; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Rizzoli & Isles (TNT; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Dating in the Dark (ABC; 9:01 pm CST). Season Finale.
Tuesday, 9/14
One Tree Hill; The CW. 7 pm CST. 8th Season Premiere.
Minute to Win It (NBC; 7 pm CST). Season Finale.
Life Unexpected; The CW. 8 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
This turned out to be a better show than I expected. The lead actors are pretty good. Now, let's hope the plotting got better (at least doesn't fall into the "Lux gets mad at one parent and moves in with the other, and the parent has to redeem him/herself, and everyone hugs in the end".)
Wipeout (ABC; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Parenthood; NBC. 9 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
Another show with good lead actors (okay-- great lead actors) that could use some more varied plotting. I want this show to get better because I already saw a great cast show called Brothers and Sisters get so ridiculously "dramatic" (also known as "Emmy bait"), I dumped it after a season.
Wednesday, 9/15
Survivor: Nicaragua; CBS. 7 pm CST. 21st Cycle Premiere.
America's Got Talent (NBC; 7 pm CST). Season Finale.
Big Brother 12 (CBS; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
God, I hate myself for watching yet another entire season of this show...
And why does CBS think they need a full two hours to pick a winner?
Outlaw; NBC. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Jimmy Smits stars as a "bad boy" judge who quits to become a crusading lawyer.
I dig that there's another show that will push some buttons on social/political issues with Boston Legal off the air, but I haven't heard much good about it (other than Smits, of course).
BTW: this pilot episode repeats this Friday-- and then moves into Friday at 9 pm next week.
Thursday, 9/16
The Apprentice; NBC. 8 pm CST. 10th Cycle Premiere.
A non-"celebrity" version for a change...
It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia; FX. 9 pm CST. 6th Season Premiere.
One of the most-"wrong" shows on TV.
And also one of the most hilarious.
The League; FX. 9:30 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
Friday, 9/17
Star Wars: The Clone Wars; Cartoon Network. 8 pm CST. 3rd Season Premiere.
I'll admit: I haven't sat down to watch many episodes from beginning to end, but the bits and pieces I've seen are mighty good; much better than expected...
Saturday, 9/18
Being Human (BBC America; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Sunday, 9/19
Boardwalk Empire; HBO. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Exec produced by Terence Winter (one of The Sopranos' writers-producers) and Martin Scorsese (who also directed the pilot ep) and starring Steve Buscemi, who plays a treasurer by day and a bootlegger by night (the series is set in the Prohibition era).
HBO dropped a ton of coin on the show, so they're solidly behind it.
Should be one of the best shows of the season.
The Gates (ABC; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Firstly, one the mags missed last week:
Sunday, 9/12
The Venture Brothers; adult swim. Fall return.
Not technically a new season-- but it's been nine months since the last new episode...
It's a fun show that can sometimes be bat-shit crazy.
Monday, 9/13
Bachelor Pad (ABC; 7 pm CST). Season Finale.
90210; The CW. 7 pm CST. 3rd Season Premiere.
Gossip Girl; The CW. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Lie to Me (Fox; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Rizzoli & Isles (TNT; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Dating in the Dark (ABC; 9:01 pm CST). Season Finale.
Tuesday, 9/14
One Tree Hill; The CW. 7 pm CST. 8th Season Premiere.
Minute to Win It (NBC; 7 pm CST). Season Finale.
Life Unexpected; The CW. 8 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
This turned out to be a better show than I expected. The lead actors are pretty good. Now, let's hope the plotting got better (at least doesn't fall into the "Lux gets mad at one parent and moves in with the other, and the parent has to redeem him/herself, and everyone hugs in the end".)
Wipeout (ABC; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Parenthood; NBC. 9 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
Another show with good lead actors (okay-- great lead actors) that could use some more varied plotting. I want this show to get better because I already saw a great cast show called Brothers and Sisters get so ridiculously "dramatic" (also known as "Emmy bait"), I dumped it after a season.
Wednesday, 9/15
Survivor: Nicaragua; CBS. 7 pm CST. 21st Cycle Premiere.
America's Got Talent (NBC; 7 pm CST). Season Finale.
Big Brother 12 (CBS; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
God, I hate myself for watching yet another entire season of this show...
And why does CBS think they need a full two hours to pick a winner?
Outlaw; NBC. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Jimmy Smits stars as a "bad boy" judge who quits to become a crusading lawyer.
I dig that there's another show that will push some buttons on social/political issues with Boston Legal off the air, but I haven't heard much good about it (other than Smits, of course).
BTW: this pilot episode repeats this Friday-- and then moves into Friday at 9 pm next week.
Thursday, 9/16
The Apprentice; NBC. 8 pm CST. 10th Cycle Premiere.
A non-"celebrity" version for a change...
It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia; FX. 9 pm CST. 6th Season Premiere.
One of the most-"wrong" shows on TV.
And also one of the most hilarious.
The League; FX. 9:30 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
Friday, 9/17
Star Wars: The Clone Wars; Cartoon Network. 8 pm CST. 3rd Season Premiere.
I'll admit: I haven't sat down to watch many episodes from beginning to end, but the bits and pieces I've seen are mighty good; much better than expected...
Saturday, 9/18
Being Human (BBC America; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Sunday, 9/19
Boardwalk Empire; HBO. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Exec produced by Terence Winter (one of The Sopranos' writers-producers) and Martin Scorsese (who also directed the pilot ep) and starring Steve Buscemi, who plays a treasurer by day and a bootlegger by night (the series is set in the Prohibition era).
HBO dropped a ton of coin on the show, so they're solidly behind it.
Should be one of the best shows of the season.
The Gates (ABC; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Friday, September 10, 2010
Thursday, September 09, 2010
Mommy and Daddy Song
A little girl makes her way into her parents' room, and, well, I'll let her tell the story:
I think the auto tune makes this a classic-- but sometimes tough to understand.
Here are the lyrics:
Daddy: Who--who you said was naked?
Daughter: Daddy and mommy
Daddy: And what happened?
Daughter:
Mommy said "Ah-Ah-Ahhhhh!"
Daddy said "Ah-Ah-Ahhhhh!"
And Daddy screamed like a girl, like "Oo Oo!"
Mommy screamed like a girl, like "Uh uh!"
Both of them screamed like
"Ah-Ah-Ah-Ah-Ahhhhhhhh!
Daddy: You was in, you was in your room?
Daughter: Uh-huh.
Daddy: You was tryin' to sleep?
Daughter: Yeah, yeah!
Daddy: Who you hear?
Daughter: Daddy and Mommy!
Daddy: I bet my daughter knows my name.
What did you hear?
Daughter:
Mommy said "Ah-Ah-Ahhhhh!"
Daddy said "Ah-Ah-Ahhhhh!"
And Daddy screamed like a girl, like "Oo Oo!"
Mommy screamed like a girl, like "Uh uh!"
Both of them screamed like
"Ah-Ah-Ah-Ah-Ahhhhhhhh!
Daddy and Mommy was naked
And you, you in trouble, you in trouble!
Both of yall!
You in trouble, you in trouble!
Both of yall!
Ah-Ah-Ah-Ah-Ahhhhhh
Wednesday, September 08, 2010
Danny Trejo on AOTS
Best answer to a question I've heard in a while; when he gets asked how it feels to be the lead in a movie after 200 roles (at 3:28):
Tuesday, September 07, 2010
Monday, September 06, 2010
Jeremy's Dragon and James Cameron
If the below AOTS interview didn't convince you Cameron's got a sense of humor, check this skit out:
AOTS With James Cameron
This is a great interview. Cameron could blow off shows like this-- but he's genuinely having fun with it.
Great respect for him for this.
Great respect for him for this.
Sunday, September 05, 2010
Chest Bump Gone Wrong
Maybe it would have gone right if the dumbass wouldn't have used his shoulder for a chest bump.
Premieres and Notables; September 6-12, 2010
Here we go: the minor nets (CW) and cable's gearing-up for the new season; trying to get ahead of the major networks, which will be starting in about two weeks.
And I'll probably regret saying this, but I'm also going to try to post trailers of the new shows shortly after these premieres posts. I tried embedding them into the premieres posts in the past, but that messed up the formatting of the posts. So, I'll give it a shot (assuming they're on YouTube, which is one of the only websites that make it easy to post to a blog in this Facebook world).
Monday, 9/6
Mad; Cartoon Network. 7:30 pm CST. Series Premiere.
After almost fifty years, the humor magazine gets an animated show.
I don't have high hopes for this, but I think it'll end up being more Mad-related than Mad TV ended up being. (Not knocking Mad TV, which consistently thrashed SNL when it came to actually being funny...)
Hoarders; A&E. 8 & 9 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Aftermath (Biography; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Thintervention; Bravo. 9:15 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Work Out's Jackie Warner whips eight contestants into shape.
Tuesday, 9/7
360 Sessions; IFC. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Musicians discuss how their childhoods influenced their careers.
White Collar (USA; 8 pm CST). Mid-season Finale.
Sons of Anarchy; FX. 9 pm CST. 3rd Season Premiere.
Louie (FX; 10:30 pm CST). Season Finale.
Wednesday, 9/8
America's Next Top Model; The CW. 7 pm CST. 15th Cycle Premiere.
And by the end, we'll have yet another top model we'll never hear from again...
Hellcats; The CW. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
A cheerleading drama with comedic elements.
Inside the NFL; Showtime. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Psych (USA; 9 pm CST). Mid-season Finale.
Terriers; FX. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Disgraced former cop Hank (Donal Logue) and reformed thief Britt (Michael Raymond-James) team-up to form an (unlicensed) private investigation firm.
I don't know much about it. FX has been a little tight on info. I can say I'll go anywhere Logue goes; his work on Grounded For Life and Knights of Prosperity has earned that from me. I have to give props to creator Ted Griffin (best known as the writer of Ocean's 11), but co-execproducer Shawn Ryan (creator of The Shield) is also a "must-see" type of guy.
It may be a little "off", being on FX and all, but it should be on your radar to at least give a try to the first few episodes.
Thursday, 9/9
The Vampire Diaries; The CW. 7 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
Nikita; The CW. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Maggie Q stars as an assassin trained by a secret government agency and is now on the run from them.
I didn't watch the cult hit series or movie Le Femme Nikita this is based on, but there is quote a bit of buzz surrounding this new series because of them.
Worth checking out.
Destination Truth; Syfy. 8 pm CST. 4th Season Premiere.
Rookie Blue (ABC; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
And it got picked up for another season...
Beast Legends; Syfy. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Syfy tries to all History (Channel) on legendary monsters.
Friday, 9/10
DocTalk; Documentary. 7 pm CST. Series Premiere.
People talk documentaries on a channel I've never heard of.
Eureka (Syfy; 8 pm CST). Mid-season Finale.
Martin Lawrence Presents 1st Amendment Stand-up; Starz. 10 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Saturday, 9/11
COPS; Fox. 7 pm CST. Season Premiere.
I don't know what season it is, but I do know this will be episode number 800.
Eight-hundred!
That's a lot of shirtless rednecks...
Sunday, 9/12
MTV Video Awards; MTV. 8 pm CST. Special.
Normally I wouldn't mention this-- even if I didn't find it hilarious that MTV still airs an awards show about videos it doesn't air anymore-- but I like host Chelsea Handler, so I'll give her a "what's up".
True Blood (HBO; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
My Boys (TBS; 9 & 9:30 pm CST). Season Finale.
Hung (HBO; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Entourage (HBO; 9:30 pm CST). Season Finale.
And I'll probably regret saying this, but I'm also going to try to post trailers of the new shows shortly after these premieres posts. I tried embedding them into the premieres posts in the past, but that messed up the formatting of the posts. So, I'll give it a shot (assuming they're on YouTube, which is one of the only websites that make it easy to post to a blog in this Facebook world).
Monday, 9/6
Mad; Cartoon Network. 7:30 pm CST. Series Premiere.
After almost fifty years, the humor magazine gets an animated show.
I don't have high hopes for this, but I think it'll end up being more Mad-related than Mad TV ended up being. (Not knocking Mad TV, which consistently thrashed SNL when it came to actually being funny...)
Hoarders; A&E. 8 & 9 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Aftermath (Biography; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Thintervention; Bravo. 9:15 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Work Out's Jackie Warner whips eight contestants into shape.
Tuesday, 9/7
360 Sessions; IFC. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Musicians discuss how their childhoods influenced their careers.
White Collar (USA; 8 pm CST). Mid-season Finale.
Sons of Anarchy; FX. 9 pm CST. 3rd Season Premiere.
Louie (FX; 10:30 pm CST). Season Finale.
Wednesday, 9/8
America's Next Top Model; The CW. 7 pm CST. 15th Cycle Premiere.
And by the end, we'll have yet another top model we'll never hear from again...
Hellcats; The CW. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
A cheerleading drama with comedic elements.
Inside the NFL; Showtime. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Psych (USA; 9 pm CST). Mid-season Finale.
Terriers; FX. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Disgraced former cop Hank (Donal Logue) and reformed thief Britt (Michael Raymond-James) team-up to form an (unlicensed) private investigation firm.
I don't know much about it. FX has been a little tight on info. I can say I'll go anywhere Logue goes; his work on Grounded For Life and Knights of Prosperity has earned that from me. I have to give props to creator Ted Griffin (best known as the writer of Ocean's 11), but co-execproducer Shawn Ryan (creator of The Shield) is also a "must-see" type of guy.
It may be a little "off", being on FX and all, but it should be on your radar to at least give a try to the first few episodes.
Thursday, 9/9
The Vampire Diaries; The CW. 7 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
Nikita; The CW. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Maggie Q stars as an assassin trained by a secret government agency and is now on the run from them.
I didn't watch the cult hit series or movie Le Femme Nikita this is based on, but there is quote a bit of buzz surrounding this new series because of them.
Worth checking out.
Destination Truth; Syfy. 8 pm CST. 4th Season Premiere.
Rookie Blue (ABC; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
And it got picked up for another season...
Beast Legends; Syfy. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Syfy tries to all History (Channel) on legendary monsters.
Friday, 9/10
DocTalk; Documentary. 7 pm CST. Series Premiere.
People talk documentaries on a channel I've never heard of.
Eureka (Syfy; 8 pm CST). Mid-season Finale.
Martin Lawrence Presents 1st Amendment Stand-up; Starz. 10 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Saturday, 9/11
COPS; Fox. 7 pm CST. Season Premiere.
I don't know what season it is, but I do know this will be episode number 800.
Eight-hundred!
That's a lot of shirtless rednecks...
Sunday, 9/12
MTV Video Awards; MTV. 8 pm CST. Special.
Normally I wouldn't mention this-- even if I didn't find it hilarious that MTV still airs an awards show about videos it doesn't air anymore-- but I like host Chelsea Handler, so I'll give her a "what's up".
True Blood (HBO; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
My Boys (TBS; 9 & 9:30 pm CST). Season Finale.
Hung (HBO; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Entourage (HBO; 9:30 pm CST). Season Finale.
Saturday, September 04, 2010
Friday, September 03, 2010
Thursday, September 02, 2010
Wednesday, September 01, 2010
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Monday, August 30, 2010
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Maybe Luke should have tried this
There may have been a lot less angst had Luke done what I just overheard how my kids handled the issue of Darth Vader's actions (while playing with their Legos of said characters):
"Dad-- why don't you stop with the killing? It's getting old."
Done.
Of course, Lucas may not have made as much coin going that route...
"Dad-- why don't you stop with the killing? It's getting old."
Done.
Of course, Lucas may not have made as much coin going that route...
The Walking Dead Trailer
Finally found a decent-quality clip of this new series based on a comic book (and a good one at that).
Don't know how faithful it'll be to the comic, but if it follows the same tone (and it looks like it will), it's gonna be a winner.
I guess we'll find out on Halloween 2010, when AMC airs the 90-minute premiere, directed by Frank Durabont.
Don't know how faithful it'll be to the comic, but if it follows the same tone (and it looks like it will), it's gonna be a winner.
I guess we'll find out on Halloween 2010, when AMC airs the 90-minute premiere, directed by Frank Durabont.
Premieres, Finales, Notables: August 30- September 5, 2010
Well, the 2010-2011 TV season ramps up soon. This will probably be the last "light" week for a while...
Monday, 8/30
Huge (ABC Family; 8 pm CST). Mid-season Finale.
WWE Raw (USA; 8 pm CST) has its 900th episode tonight. I may not be a "rasslin'" fan anymore, but I do remember the classic events that happened on this show about eight-twelve years ago when I was a fan. Love sports entertainment or hate it; you have to tip your hat to the fact that this show has produced 900 original episodes in a little over 15 years. That's an achievement.
Dance Your Ass Off (Oxygen; 10 pm CST). Season Finale.
I guess all the ass got danced off...
Tuesday, 8/31
Rescue Me (FX; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
The show is moving ever closer to the end. Next season is its last.
Make It or Break It (ABC Family; 8 pm CST). Mid-season Finale.
Chopped Champions (Food Network; 9 pm CST). Series Premiere.
I don't know... Something about previous winners coming back.
Don't have any idea what it's about...
Wednesday, 9/1
Changing Lanes; BET. 7 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Minority drivers compete to join a racing team.
Plain Jane (The CW; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Thursday, 9/2
NBC's Community (7 pm CST) repeats one of the highlights of last season: the school-wide paintball competition. Obviously, it was so great because we got to see a different side of the characters (so prior knowledge is helpful); but it also sent-up a lot of action movies during the episode, so even if you haven't seen the show before, you should get a kick out of it.
Futurama (Comedy Central; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
And it's the 100th episode...
Friday, 9/3
I'm not actually recommending this. Truthfully, I can't recommend half the crap I type to these "Premieres" posts, but I found this one patently ridiculous: The Short List: 10 Cutest Celebrity Babies.
This "special" ranks ten celeb children on their cuteness.
Are you fuckin' kidding me?
There is a point where people have to avoid this tripe like the plague-- or they just keep making more of it.
Really. Do we need this kind of shit filling up the airwaves?
Saturday, 9/4
Thomas & Friends; PBS. 9:30 am (check local listings). Season Premiere.
Sunday, 9/5
All American Handyman; HGTV. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Twenty "regular Joes/Jos" compete to prove they're the best handy-wo/men.
Leverage (TNT; 8 pm CST). Mid-season Finale.
The last three eps of Season 3 air in December.
Three eps left? Man, I hate how cable airs their shows...
Mel B: It's a Scary World; Style. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
The former "Scary Spice" gets a reality show.
Seriously, I can't recommend even half the shit I type in these things...
Monday, 8/30
Huge (ABC Family; 8 pm CST). Mid-season Finale.
WWE Raw (USA; 8 pm CST) has its 900th episode tonight. I may not be a "rasslin'" fan anymore, but I do remember the classic events that happened on this show about eight-twelve years ago when I was a fan. Love sports entertainment or hate it; you have to tip your hat to the fact that this show has produced 900 original episodes in a little over 15 years. That's an achievement.
Dance Your Ass Off (Oxygen; 10 pm CST). Season Finale.
I guess all the ass got danced off...
Tuesday, 8/31
Rescue Me (FX; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
The show is moving ever closer to the end. Next season is its last.
Make It or Break It (ABC Family; 8 pm CST). Mid-season Finale.
Chopped Champions (Food Network; 9 pm CST). Series Premiere.
I don't know... Something about previous winners coming back.
Don't have any idea what it's about...
Wednesday, 9/1
Changing Lanes; BET. 7 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Minority drivers compete to join a racing team.
Plain Jane (The CW; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Thursday, 9/2
NBC's Community (7 pm CST) repeats one of the highlights of last season: the school-wide paintball competition. Obviously, it was so great because we got to see a different side of the characters (so prior knowledge is helpful); but it also sent-up a lot of action movies during the episode, so even if you haven't seen the show before, you should get a kick out of it.
Futurama (Comedy Central; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
And it's the 100th episode...
Friday, 9/3
I'm not actually recommending this. Truthfully, I can't recommend half the crap I type to these "Premieres" posts, but I found this one patently ridiculous: The Short List: 10 Cutest Celebrity Babies.
This "special" ranks ten celeb children on their cuteness.
Are you fuckin' kidding me?
There is a point where people have to avoid this tripe like the plague-- or they just keep making more of it.
Really. Do we need this kind of shit filling up the airwaves?
Saturday, 9/4
Thomas & Friends; PBS. 9:30 am (check local listings). Season Premiere.
Sunday, 9/5
All American Handyman; HGTV. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Twenty "regular Joes/Jos" compete to prove they're the best handy-wo/men.
Leverage (TNT; 8 pm CST). Mid-season Finale.
The last three eps of Season 3 air in December.
Three eps left? Man, I hate how cable airs their shows...
Mel B: It's a Scary World; Style. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
The former "Scary Spice" gets a reality show.
Seriously, I can't recommend even half the shit I type in these things...
Friday, August 27, 2010
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Monday, August 23, 2010
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Maybe McDonalds Should Just Serve McNuggets At 6 AM...
A little backstory: Post-New Years drunk chick + Hankerin' for McNuggets - McDonalds Breakfast Menu (no McNuggets) = not happy drunk chick.
This is from a security camera, so no audio...
Love the end. Just gives the next car their food; broken window and all...
Exciting, no? How about when adding dramatic music, courtesy of G4's Attack of the Show:
This is from a security camera, so no audio...
Love the end. Just gives the next car their food; broken window and all...
Exciting, no? How about when adding dramatic music, courtesy of G4's Attack of the Show:
Premieres and Notables; August 23-29, 2010
Tuesday, 8/24
HawthoRNe (TNT; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Growing Up Twisted (A&E; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Didn't this premiere just a couple of weeks ago?
Memphis Beat (TNT; 9 pm CST. Season Finale.
Wednesday, 8/25
Ghost Hunters; Syfy. 8 pm CST. Mid-season return.
She's Got the Look; TV Land. 9 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Who the (Bleep) Did I Marry? ID. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
I have no idea what it's about-- or even what network it's on. "ID"?
Thursday, 8/26
Burn Notice (USA; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Royal Pains (USA; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Family Style; Food Network. 9:30 pm CST. Series Premiere.
A brother and sister run a San Diego restaurant.
Friday, 8/27
Chefs vs. City (Food Network; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Sunday, 8/29
The 62nd Annual Primetime Emmy Awards; NBC. 7 pm CST. Special.
I bring myself to watch these shows. The system's messed up.
I'll watch the highlights-- and the odd great speech-- on YouTube.
Of course, if you're a sucker for this kind of thing, there are plenty of preshow stuff happening on TV Guide Channel and E!
Drop Dead Diva (Lifetime; 8 & 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Amazing Wedding Cakes; WE TV. 9 pm CST. Season Premiere.
HawthoRNe (TNT; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Growing Up Twisted (A&E; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Didn't this premiere just a couple of weeks ago?
Memphis Beat (TNT; 9 pm CST. Season Finale.
Wednesday, 8/25
Ghost Hunters; Syfy. 8 pm CST. Mid-season return.
She's Got the Look; TV Land. 9 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Who the (Bleep) Did I Marry? ID. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
I have no idea what it's about-- or even what network it's on. "ID"?
Thursday, 8/26
Burn Notice (USA; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Royal Pains (USA; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Family Style; Food Network. 9:30 pm CST. Series Premiere.
A brother and sister run a San Diego restaurant.
Friday, 8/27
Chefs vs. City (Food Network; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Sunday, 8/29
The 62nd Annual Primetime Emmy Awards; NBC. 7 pm CST. Special.
I bring myself to watch these shows. The system's messed up.
I'll watch the highlights-- and the odd great speech-- on YouTube.
Of course, if you're a sucker for this kind of thing, there are plenty of preshow stuff happening on TV Guide Channel and E!
Drop Dead Diva (Lifetime; 8 & 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Amazing Wedding Cakes; WE TV. 9 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Some people just love to be on TV
Even if it's just a local program...
And it's your sister who's getting arrested...
Friday, August 20, 2010
Guy Dances Into Traffic
Wait... I meant: Dumbass Dances Into Traffic.
And the concerned friend says, "Oh shit."
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Rail Grind Dare
Okay, the fail is pretty harsh-- but my favorite part is the kid talkin' shit before the attempt...
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Yet Another Video Game Adaptation
It's been decades since I've played...
But they hit it on the head.
(LOVE the names. What Tween wouldn't use a name like "Poopface" on a computer game?)
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Monday, August 16, 2010
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Premieres and Notables; August 16-22, 2010
Monday, 8/16
Baggage; GSN. 5:30 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Lie to Me's (FOX; 8 pm) exec producer Shawn Ryan pulls together a half-dozen cast members from his break-out hit The Shield to guest star in this episode.
Hardcore Pawn; TruTV. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
This reality show follows a Detroit pawnshop.
Just what the world needed: another pawn store show.
Weeds; Showtime. 9 pm CST. 6th Season Premiere.
The Botwins and their extended family are on the road/run again after last season's finale.
Hopefully they'll leave the Mexican border-- and the storylines that came with it-- far, far behind...
The Big C; Showtime. 9:30 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Laura Linney stars in this comedy (yes, comedy) about a woman who decides to live life to the fullest after she's diagnosed with cancer.
Tuesday, 8/17
Melissa and Joey; ABC Family. 7 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Melissa Joan Hart stars as a politician who needs help raising her niece and nephew, so she takes on Joey Lawrence as her "manny".
Big Lake; Comedy Central. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
This Will Farrell and Adam Mckay-produced comedy stars Chris Gethard as a failed financial expert who has to move back in with his parents. To make matters worse, his parents aren't happy with him after he lost their nest egg in bad investments. The show costars Horatio Sanz and Chris Parnell.
Wednesday, 8/16
Ghost Hunters International (Syfy; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Hot in Cleveland (TV Land; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
She's Got the Look; TV Land. 9:30 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Thursday, 8/19
Extereme Cuisine With Jeff Corwin; Food. 7 pm CST. Season Premiere.
You're Wearing That?!? WE. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Mothers and daughters rip on each other's clothes-- and then get makeovers.
Friday, 8/20
The Kids in the Hall: Death Comes to Town; IFC. 9 pm CST. Mini-Series Premiere.
Sunday, 8/22
Delocated! [adult swim]/Cartoon Network. 9 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
New season brings new format: 30-minute episodes.
Childrens Hospital; [adult swim]/Cartoon Network. 9:30 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Now that all of the original webisodes have aired, the show moves to the [adult swim] 15-minute episode format.
This show is insane, but recommended. It blasts every medical drama convention you can think of in incredibly bizarre ways.
And there are many, many familiar faces on screen, so that's also a lot of the fun.
Baggage; GSN. 5:30 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Lie to Me's (FOX; 8 pm) exec producer Shawn Ryan pulls together a half-dozen cast members from his break-out hit The Shield to guest star in this episode.
Hardcore Pawn; TruTV. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
This reality show follows a Detroit pawnshop.
Just what the world needed: another pawn store show.
Weeds; Showtime. 9 pm CST. 6th Season Premiere.
The Botwins and their extended family are on the road/run again after last season's finale.
Hopefully they'll leave the Mexican border-- and the storylines that came with it-- far, far behind...
The Big C; Showtime. 9:30 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Laura Linney stars in this comedy (yes, comedy) about a woman who decides to live life to the fullest after she's diagnosed with cancer.
Tuesday, 8/17
Melissa and Joey; ABC Family. 7 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Melissa Joan Hart stars as a politician who needs help raising her niece and nephew, so she takes on Joey Lawrence as her "manny".
Big Lake; Comedy Central. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
This Will Farrell and Adam Mckay-produced comedy stars Chris Gethard as a failed financial expert who has to move back in with his parents. To make matters worse, his parents aren't happy with him after he lost their nest egg in bad investments. The show costars Horatio Sanz and Chris Parnell.
Wednesday, 8/16
Ghost Hunters International (Syfy; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Hot in Cleveland (TV Land; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
She's Got the Look; TV Land. 9:30 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Thursday, 8/19
Extereme Cuisine With Jeff Corwin; Food. 7 pm CST. Season Premiere.
You're Wearing That?!? WE. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Mothers and daughters rip on each other's clothes-- and then get makeovers.
Friday, 8/20
The Kids in the Hall: Death Comes to Town; IFC. 9 pm CST. Mini-Series Premiere.
Sunday, 8/22
Delocated! [adult swim]/Cartoon Network. 9 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
New season brings new format: 30-minute episodes.
Childrens Hospital; [adult swim]/Cartoon Network. 9:30 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Now that all of the original webisodes have aired, the show moves to the [adult swim] 15-minute episode format.
This show is insane, but recommended. It blasts every medical drama convention you can think of in incredibly bizarre ways.
And there are many, many familiar faces on screen, so that's also a lot of the fun.
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Carrie Takes Suggestions From the Twitter Wall
With Olivia Munn away to work on her NBC comedy as well as The Daily Show, Kevin ("Luckiest Man Alive") Pereira has had a number of smokin' hot guest hosts to work with.
My favorite is still Alison Haislip-- but I HAVE to say Carrie Keagan has made a very impressive jump up the chain of my favorite guests with the drool-worthy dress she sports in this clip, as well as her willingness to take suggestions from the Twitter Wall.
My favorite is still Alison Haislip-- but I HAVE to say Carrie Keagan has made a very impressive jump up the chain of my favorite guests with the drool-worthy dress she sports in this clip, as well as her willingness to take suggestions from the Twitter Wall.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
World's Strongest Redneck Trims His Hedges
The best part of this whole thing?
The discharge chute is facing him.
Monday, August 09, 2010
Sunday, August 08, 2010
Saturday, August 07, 2010
Premieres and Notables, August 9-15, 2010
Monday, 8/9
Bachelor Pad; ABC. 7 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Nineteen Bachelor and Bachelorette rejects move into a house and start gettin' real.
You have got to be fuckin' kidding me...
Too Fat for 15: Fighting Back; Style. 7 pm CST. Series Premiere.
A docuseries about a boarding school for obese teens.
Last Comic Standing (NBC; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Wild Nights With Mireya Mayor; Nat Geo Wild. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Wildlife in big cities...
Dating in the Dark (ABC; 9:01 CST). 2nd Season Premiere.
Tuesday, 8/10
Hell's Kitchen (Fox; 7 pm CST). Season Finale.
Flipping Out; Bravo. 8 pm CST. 4th Season Premiere.
Hair Battle Spectacular; Oxygen. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Ten hair stylists face off to create bizarre hairdos...
Wednesday, 8/11
L.A. Ink; TLC. 9 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Work of Art: The Next Great Artist (Bravo; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Hard Knocks; HBO. 9 pm CST. 6th Season Premiere.
This season, the focus is on the New York Jets.
Thursday, 8/12
So You Think You Can Dance (Fox; 7 pm CST). Season Finale.
American Chopper: Senior vs. Junior; TLC. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Raising Sextuplets (WE TV; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Boston Med (ABC; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Friday, 8/13
Wife Swap (ABC; 7 pm CST). Season Finale.
This show still airs episodes?
Sunday, 8/15
The Next Food Network Star (Food Network; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Scoundrels (ABC; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Top Shot (History; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
The Great Food Truck Race; Food. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Seven food trucks sell their goods.
Comedy Central Roast of David Hasselhoff; Comedy Central. 9 pm CST. Special.
Usually these things just devolve into who can be the most crass-- and I'm sure this will be no exception. But we do have a person who, I think, can and will get roasted (unlike, say, Pam Anderson, who most didn't go very tough on). I also have read a few of the jokes already, and a couple cracked me up (Whitney Cummings' "I actually tried to buy one of your songs on Amazon.com, and it said, 'Users who bought this item also bought a shotgun,'" was my favorite).
You may want to DVR the after-midnight airings; sometimes they don't bleep out as much.
Bachelor Pad; ABC. 7 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Nineteen Bachelor and Bachelorette rejects move into a house and start gettin' real.
You have got to be fuckin' kidding me...
Too Fat for 15: Fighting Back; Style. 7 pm CST. Series Premiere.
A docuseries about a boarding school for obese teens.
Last Comic Standing (NBC; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Wild Nights With Mireya Mayor; Nat Geo Wild. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Wildlife in big cities...
Dating in the Dark (ABC; 9:01 CST). 2nd Season Premiere.
Tuesday, 8/10
Hell's Kitchen (Fox; 7 pm CST). Season Finale.
Flipping Out; Bravo. 8 pm CST. 4th Season Premiere.
Hair Battle Spectacular; Oxygen. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Ten hair stylists face off to create bizarre hairdos...
Wednesday, 8/11
L.A. Ink; TLC. 9 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Work of Art: The Next Great Artist (Bravo; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Hard Knocks; HBO. 9 pm CST. 6th Season Premiere.
This season, the focus is on the New York Jets.
Thursday, 8/12
So You Think You Can Dance (Fox; 7 pm CST). Season Finale.
American Chopper: Senior vs. Junior; TLC. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Raising Sextuplets (WE TV; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Boston Med (ABC; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Friday, 8/13
Wife Swap (ABC; 7 pm CST). Season Finale.
This show still airs episodes?
Sunday, 8/15
The Next Food Network Star (Food Network; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Scoundrels (ABC; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Top Shot (History; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
The Great Food Truck Race; Food. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Seven food trucks sell their goods.
Comedy Central Roast of David Hasselhoff; Comedy Central. 9 pm CST. Special.
Usually these things just devolve into who can be the most crass-- and I'm sure this will be no exception. But we do have a person who, I think, can and will get roasted (unlike, say, Pam Anderson, who most didn't go very tough on). I also have read a few of the jokes already, and a couple cracked me up (Whitney Cummings' "I actually tried to buy one of your songs on Amazon.com, and it said, 'Users who bought this item also bought a shotgun,'" was my favorite).
You may want to DVR the after-midnight airings; sometimes they don't bleep out as much.
Wednesday, August 04, 2010
Tuesday, August 03, 2010
DC Online: "Who Do You Trust?" Trailer
Lots of cool stuff going on here.
Wish that some of the animated-- or live action-- films had some of those moves...
Wish that some of the animated-- or live action-- films had some of those moves...
Monday, August 02, 2010
Sunday, August 01, 2010
100 Greatest The Wire Lines
I guess I should give this full-disclosure: there are minor spoilers. Mainly, if you can remember some of the scenes if/when you finally do watch the series, you may be able to find out if someone dies (two instances near the 9 minute mark).
But your average person won't remember the details between now and later.
Just bask in the glory that is THE WIRE dialogue. Great clip if you haven't seen the series; fantastic clip if you have.
I gotta go back and watch this show...
But your average person won't remember the details between now and later.
Just bask in the glory that is THE WIRE dialogue. Great clip if you haven't seen the series; fantastic clip if you have.
I gotta go back and watch this show...
More Premieres and Notables for Aug 2- 8, 2010
Might be a repeat or two, but I think are most are "new" to the blog:
Monday, 8/2
Aftermath With William Shatner; Bio. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
A new show hosted by Shatner that looks at the aftermath of certain events or times.
The first episode finds him interviewing Bernie Goetz.
Tuesday, 8/3
18 to Life; The CW. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere (U.S.)
This Canadian import finds two recent high school graduates engaged, and their parents aren't too excited about that.
Wednesday, 8/4
Criss Angel: Mindfreak; A&E. 9 pm CST. 6th Season Premiere.
Sunday, 8/8
Hoarding: Buried Alive; TLC. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Monday, 8/2
Aftermath With William Shatner; Bio. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
A new show hosted by Shatner that looks at the aftermath of certain events or times.
The first episode finds him interviewing Bernie Goetz.
Tuesday, 8/3
18 to Life; The CW. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere (U.S.)
This Canadian import finds two recent high school graduates engaged, and their parents aren't too excited about that.
Wednesday, 8/4
Criss Angel: Mindfreak; A&E. 9 pm CST. 6th Season Premiere.
Sunday, 8/8
Hoarding: Buried Alive; TLC. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Friday, July 30, 2010
2010 Q2 Movie Grades, M-T (The End)
Marmaduke—film. Not as insipid as many kids movies, but a kid movie nonetheless. The story followed the often-told plotline of an outcast who becomes popular and forgets “where s/he came from” before realizing the error of her/his ways.
Everyone played his part well enough, and other than the unreal ways the animals’ mouths moved when they talked (although I honestly don’t know what else the director could have done about it), it worked. It’s been done before; sometimes better, often worse. C+
Men in Black—BD. I haven’t watched this since I saw it in the theatres, and I was really impressed by how well it’s held up these past 15 years. The BluRay conversion could have been better, but the film is more about the wacky world/universe this new, hip guy finds himself in the middle of that the pretty (and pretty weird) vusials. It’s an early-era Will Smith flick, and his chattering wise-guy persona hadn’t gotten old yet, and Tommy Lee Jones fell on my radar after this film, and his sarcastic, dry “K” was a fun foil against Smith’s “J”.
Other than the two leads, the supporting characters were also a blast. Rip Torn’s “Zed” was the typical, blustering “top cop” (but done with flair by Torn), and Tony Shalhoub had a great scene as alien informant Jeebs. But the best role had to be Vincent D’Onofrio’s Edgar the Farmer. As the alien roach used Edgar’s skin as a disguise, D’Onofrio, had to change from bad-mannered farmer to… an alien that is using a human skin as a disguise. Hilarious. B+
Moon— This one had a lot of good reviews within my normal sphere of review-reading, but I just couldn’t get into it. The acting and directing were way above average, but I just couldn’t get hooked. I’m going to chalk that up to not being ready for it. I’m going to give it another shot in the future. For now, it receives an Incomplete.
Planet Hulk— A pretty different take on the character, which is odd considering it’s only the second animated DVD movie of The Hulk from the Marvel Animated line of direct-to-DVD titles they’s been working on the past five years or so. But the story is a great one (probably enhanced because it IS a different take on the character), and the “movie”, if you can call something just over an hour a movie, hit the main beats of the comic book story well (better in some ways; I felt the comics meandered a bit whereas this movie was pretty streamlined). Worth renting; maybe if it drops to $5, I’ll buy it. B-
Step Brothers. When you think of an actor who can do a modern-day man-child, who pops into your head? Maybe Jack Black, but definitely Will Farrell. Now bring along an up-and-comer to the genre like John C. Reilly, and you’ve got a movie that’s bound for childish lunacy. Farrell’s played the type enough times to have both good and bad movies in this “genre” on his resume, and this one is one of the better ones.
Two grown men who act worse than children have to live together when their parents get married. Not an unusual concept for a film, but a normal film would have the children portrayed as monsters (if the parents were both loving as they are in this movie) as they destroyed property. But this film is ridiculous because the “children” are men in their forties.
Long story short: this isn’t a great film, but I did find it fun (aside from the by-the-numbers plotline). Farrell can easily venture into “too much”, but I think having Reilly along to take some of the pratfalls and lunacy off his hands worked. B-
Toy Story 3—film. I didn’t love Toy Story 2—even though I am well-aware it’s much better than most movies that get released. I just didn’t feel much for the characters. But this story hit a little closer to my heart. Maybe it’s because Pixar doesn’t sugarcoat things just because it’s animated. The story had some darkness to it, but that’s what the story required, so it worked perfectly—as does most anything Pixar works on.
The last half-hour or so is pretty powerful (bring a tissue). Maybe it was extra-powerful because it’s been rumored this is the last Toy Story film (although there have also been rumors of doing a fourth), and the story had a number of climaxes that made me wonder “Is this it?”
But what they came up with to end the film (and maybe the franchise) was perfect for the story. I can’t say more than that or else it may diminish the wonder of the last part of the movie for others.
In the end, I should just have to say “This is a Pixar film,” and you should already know it’s going to be great. And it is. Pixar has something about their films that I can only describe as “magic”. This is what filmmakers should all aspire to. There are too many kids movies specifically and movies in general that have no art or wonder at all about them. The people behind this film could have EASILY put it on auto-pilot and pooped out a decent movie that would have raked in the cash in both box office and toys, but they went for a film that has many meanings (both for children and adult) and is of the highest quality. If only more filmmakers/studios would do the same. A-
Everyone played his part well enough, and other than the unreal ways the animals’ mouths moved when they talked (although I honestly don’t know what else the director could have done about it), it worked. It’s been done before; sometimes better, often worse. C+
Men in Black—BD. I haven’t watched this since I saw it in the theatres, and I was really impressed by how well it’s held up these past 15 years. The BluRay conversion could have been better, but the film is more about the wacky world/universe this new, hip guy finds himself in the middle of that the pretty (and pretty weird) vusials. It’s an early-era Will Smith flick, and his chattering wise-guy persona hadn’t gotten old yet, and Tommy Lee Jones fell on my radar after this film, and his sarcastic, dry “K” was a fun foil against Smith’s “J”.
Other than the two leads, the supporting characters were also a blast. Rip Torn’s “Zed” was the typical, blustering “top cop” (but done with flair by Torn), and Tony Shalhoub had a great scene as alien informant Jeebs. But the best role had to be Vincent D’Onofrio’s Edgar the Farmer. As the alien roach used Edgar’s skin as a disguise, D’Onofrio, had to change from bad-mannered farmer to… an alien that is using a human skin as a disguise. Hilarious. B+
Moon— This one had a lot of good reviews within my normal sphere of review-reading, but I just couldn’t get into it. The acting and directing were way above average, but I just couldn’t get hooked. I’m going to chalk that up to not being ready for it. I’m going to give it another shot in the future. For now, it receives an Incomplete.
Planet Hulk— A pretty different take on the character, which is odd considering it’s only the second animated DVD movie of The Hulk from the Marvel Animated line of direct-to-DVD titles they’s been working on the past five years or so. But the story is a great one (probably enhanced because it IS a different take on the character), and the “movie”, if you can call something just over an hour a movie, hit the main beats of the comic book story well (better in some ways; I felt the comics meandered a bit whereas this movie was pretty streamlined). Worth renting; maybe if it drops to $5, I’ll buy it. B-
Step Brothers. When you think of an actor who can do a modern-day man-child, who pops into your head? Maybe Jack Black, but definitely Will Farrell. Now bring along an up-and-comer to the genre like John C. Reilly, and you’ve got a movie that’s bound for childish lunacy. Farrell’s played the type enough times to have both good and bad movies in this “genre” on his resume, and this one is one of the better ones.
Two grown men who act worse than children have to live together when their parents get married. Not an unusual concept for a film, but a normal film would have the children portrayed as monsters (if the parents were both loving as they are in this movie) as they destroyed property. But this film is ridiculous because the “children” are men in their forties.
Long story short: this isn’t a great film, but I did find it fun (aside from the by-the-numbers plotline). Farrell can easily venture into “too much”, but I think having Reilly along to take some of the pratfalls and lunacy off his hands worked. B-
Toy Story 3—film. I didn’t love Toy Story 2—even though I am well-aware it’s much better than most movies that get released. I just didn’t feel much for the characters. But this story hit a little closer to my heart. Maybe it’s because Pixar doesn’t sugarcoat things just because it’s animated. The story had some darkness to it, but that’s what the story required, so it worked perfectly—as does most anything Pixar works on.
The last half-hour or so is pretty powerful (bring a tissue). Maybe it was extra-powerful because it’s been rumored this is the last Toy Story film (although there have also been rumors of doing a fourth), and the story had a number of climaxes that made me wonder “Is this it?”
But what they came up with to end the film (and maybe the franchise) was perfect for the story. I can’t say more than that or else it may diminish the wonder of the last part of the movie for others.
In the end, I should just have to say “This is a Pixar film,” and you should already know it’s going to be great. And it is. Pixar has something about their films that I can only describe as “magic”. This is what filmmakers should all aspire to. There are too many kids movies specifically and movies in general that have no art or wonder at all about them. The people behind this film could have EASILY put it on auto-pilot and pooped out a decent movie that would have raked in the cash in both box office and toys, but they went for a film that has many meanings (both for children and adult) and is of the highest quality. If only more filmmakers/studios would do the same. A-
Thursday, July 29, 2010
2010 Q2 Movie Grades, G-J
Ghostbusters—BD. I had never seen Ghostbusters. I know; it’s “impossible”. But I never really had an urge to. So I watched it, and, like many of the early SNL-actor movies of the ‘80s, I wasn’t terribly impressed. It was fun, there were some good bits, but I just don’t get into those movies like my contemporaries do (especially this one, which has gained a cult-like status).
I think a lot of these Dan Ackroyd/Bill Murray/et al flicks are best when watched at the time they come out at that “magic age” kids are (10-15 yrs old), and they are remembered more fondly. I haven’t been at that magic age in quite some time, so the best I can give it is a B-.
Hachi-- I’m not sure how a Richard Gere and Joan Allen film got sent direct-to-DVD, but I’m kind of glad it did. This wouldn’t have played well in a theatre because it is a very small, personal, movie. Had it gone to theatres, it would have “bombed”, and it would have looked like a failure. This way, it got some (well deserved) great reviews and word of mouth has made it a success (in terms of direct-to-DVD films at least).
The story (based on real events) is about a puppy who gets lost at a train station and is found by a kind man who takes him home for the night before looking for the puppy’s owner. No one seems to want to claim him, so the man ends up bringing him home the next day and so on until it becomes clear the dog, who he named “Hachi”, is now his.
Hachi is so much the man’s that he sees him off every morning at the train station and then returns at night to meet the man when the train brings him back. This goes on for a few years until the man dies, suddenly. Hachi doesn’t understand what happened, so he continues to wait at the train station, day after day, hoping the man gets off one of the trains.
It’s a story about loyalty and the love between a dog and his owner that is told very simply (without any cute voiceovers or “beating you over the head” morals-to-the-story). Just a very small, but very powerful film that is nearly perfect in most every way. A-
The Informant-- I had no idea Matt Damon could play a dimbulb quite as well as he showed he could in this film. I think this film confused a lot of people because it was filmed to look like a drama—but it is pretty hilarious. Damon’s informant character was about as self-serving and borderline dumb as any I’ve seen in a while. Props, too, to his FBI handlers, played by Scott Bakula and Joel McHale. Their reactions as Damon screwed something up—or went “off script”—were always great. B+
The Invention of Lying— A movie that can work on two levels. Usually, I just pay attention to the “main level” of the story; in this case, the humorous world that exists that looks just like ours except for the fact that everyone tells the truth. But they can’t even “Mr. Spock” their reality and leave things out; no, they are compelled to tell their innermost thoughts to each other, even when they are not prompted to.
And then, a schluby, pathetic man (who’s not all that bad, just portrayed that way because everyone is honest with him) decides to get out of a jam by telling an untruth. Because no one knows about lying, everyone he talks to takes what he says as the absolute truth—even if it directly conflicts to what their own eyes and ears are telling them.
So, on this level, the movie is pretty funny in that Ricky Gervais uncomfortable humor (such as a woman telling her date she’s upset because he’s early to pick her up on their date and she wasn’t finished masturbating yet)—and it’s an eye-opener that reminds us of all the little lies we tell others as well as ourselves every day (again—with the “reality” that holding back our thoughts is also lying; something I’m not in agreement about).
On a second level, this can also be seen as a comment on religion. In the movie, the man tries to make someone else feel better by saying “The man in the sky will take care of you,” which opens a whole can of worms for our protagonist. I don’t try to express my beliefs too much here, but I will say I’m with the movie on this about religion: it was created to provide answers to the unanswerable and comfort people who need comforting.
Now, you can keep looking at this film on the surface level and know that the film needed him to create religion as an impetus for the conflict and resulting climax that ensued. But on another level, it just may be a comment about religion. If it was really a means to criticize it, then I think they were a bit harsh. I think the filmmakers were more trying to tell a story that may have put the notion out there, but were more interested in telling a funny story (I don’t know; I didn’t listen to the director commentary).
But anyway, if you have issues with comedy and religion, stay away. If you don’t—or are looking for something to discuss with your peers, check it out. B
Iron Man 2—film. There has been talk that this film didn’t live up to the first one, and I can’t completely disagree. There was a certain magic and lightness to the first film, and I think that came with the plotline. Tony was just beginning his IM career, and there was lots of room for humor as he perfected his suit of armor.
This movie was different as Tony was in a different place. The radiation his power source (for his heart as well as his armor) is giving off is killing him. Tony being Tony didn’t want to worry his friends Pepper and Rhodey, so they think he’s losing touch with his humanity and fun-loving nature.
Iron Man 2 had a lot to live up to, and it wasn’t always just to live up to the first film. The Iron Man franchise is the anchor for Marvel’s Avengers film push, so there are a lot of hints dropped in that’s mainly to set up future Marvel films—and certainly to give the biggest push to the upcoming Avengers flick. I think director Jon Favreau had a lot on his plate, and he worked it the best he could.
I guess I was most impressed by the things I was looking forward to least. The Whiplash in the comics has a look that wouldn’t translate well on screen, but I wasn’t sure the movie’s chest-baring look was the right call, either. And the film Whiplash “suffers” from one of my biggest comic book movie pet peeves: the villain always has to have some sort of connection to the hero. But Mickey Rourke brought the goods and sold me on what the film was doing. Kudos. And then War Machine, one of my least-favorite armors introduced in the ten years or so I read the comic was highlighted in this film. I could never understand why ballistics was needed for an armor based on repulsor technology, which seemed more powerful—and didn’t have to explain where all the bullets are stored. But I gotta say: seeing (and hearing) Rhodey pumping lead into the bad guys was pretty cool. B+
Justice League: Crisis on Two Earths— Another adaptation of a comic book graphic novel. But this one had more heart to it than most as well as more “that was cool” moments. If you’re a comic book fan or superhero fan, this is a good one to watch (but still not mandatory). B
I think a lot of these Dan Ackroyd/Bill Murray/et al flicks are best when watched at the time they come out at that “magic age” kids are (10-15 yrs old), and they are remembered more fondly. I haven’t been at that magic age in quite some time, so the best I can give it is a B-.
Hachi-- I’m not sure how a Richard Gere and Joan Allen film got sent direct-to-DVD, but I’m kind of glad it did. This wouldn’t have played well in a theatre because it is a very small, personal, movie. Had it gone to theatres, it would have “bombed”, and it would have looked like a failure. This way, it got some (well deserved) great reviews and word of mouth has made it a success (in terms of direct-to-DVD films at least).
The story (based on real events) is about a puppy who gets lost at a train station and is found by a kind man who takes him home for the night before looking for the puppy’s owner. No one seems to want to claim him, so the man ends up bringing him home the next day and so on until it becomes clear the dog, who he named “Hachi”, is now his.
Hachi is so much the man’s that he sees him off every morning at the train station and then returns at night to meet the man when the train brings him back. This goes on for a few years until the man dies, suddenly. Hachi doesn’t understand what happened, so he continues to wait at the train station, day after day, hoping the man gets off one of the trains.
It’s a story about loyalty and the love between a dog and his owner that is told very simply (without any cute voiceovers or “beating you over the head” morals-to-the-story). Just a very small, but very powerful film that is nearly perfect in most every way. A-
The Informant-- I had no idea Matt Damon could play a dimbulb quite as well as he showed he could in this film. I think this film confused a lot of people because it was filmed to look like a drama—but it is pretty hilarious. Damon’s informant character was about as self-serving and borderline dumb as any I’ve seen in a while. Props, too, to his FBI handlers, played by Scott Bakula and Joel McHale. Their reactions as Damon screwed something up—or went “off script”—were always great. B+
The Invention of Lying— A movie that can work on two levels. Usually, I just pay attention to the “main level” of the story; in this case, the humorous world that exists that looks just like ours except for the fact that everyone tells the truth. But they can’t even “Mr. Spock” their reality and leave things out; no, they are compelled to tell their innermost thoughts to each other, even when they are not prompted to.
And then, a schluby, pathetic man (who’s not all that bad, just portrayed that way because everyone is honest with him) decides to get out of a jam by telling an untruth. Because no one knows about lying, everyone he talks to takes what he says as the absolute truth—even if it directly conflicts to what their own eyes and ears are telling them.
So, on this level, the movie is pretty funny in that Ricky Gervais uncomfortable humor (such as a woman telling her date she’s upset because he’s early to pick her up on their date and she wasn’t finished masturbating yet)—and it’s an eye-opener that reminds us of all the little lies we tell others as well as ourselves every day (again—with the “reality” that holding back our thoughts is also lying; something I’m not in agreement about).
On a second level, this can also be seen as a comment on religion. In the movie, the man tries to make someone else feel better by saying “The man in the sky will take care of you,” which opens a whole can of worms for our protagonist. I don’t try to express my beliefs too much here, but I will say I’m with the movie on this about religion: it was created to provide answers to the unanswerable and comfort people who need comforting.
Now, you can keep looking at this film on the surface level and know that the film needed him to create religion as an impetus for the conflict and resulting climax that ensued. But on another level, it just may be a comment about religion. If it was really a means to criticize it, then I think they were a bit harsh. I think the filmmakers were more trying to tell a story that may have put the notion out there, but were more interested in telling a funny story (I don’t know; I didn’t listen to the director commentary).
But anyway, if you have issues with comedy and religion, stay away. If you don’t—or are looking for something to discuss with your peers, check it out. B
Iron Man 2—film. There has been talk that this film didn’t live up to the first one, and I can’t completely disagree. There was a certain magic and lightness to the first film, and I think that came with the plotline. Tony was just beginning his IM career, and there was lots of room for humor as he perfected his suit of armor.
This movie was different as Tony was in a different place. The radiation his power source (for his heart as well as his armor) is giving off is killing him. Tony being Tony didn’t want to worry his friends Pepper and Rhodey, so they think he’s losing touch with his humanity and fun-loving nature.
Iron Man 2 had a lot to live up to, and it wasn’t always just to live up to the first film. The Iron Man franchise is the anchor for Marvel’s Avengers film push, so there are a lot of hints dropped in that’s mainly to set up future Marvel films—and certainly to give the biggest push to the upcoming Avengers flick. I think director Jon Favreau had a lot on his plate, and he worked it the best he could.
I guess I was most impressed by the things I was looking forward to least. The Whiplash in the comics has a look that wouldn’t translate well on screen, but I wasn’t sure the movie’s chest-baring look was the right call, either. And the film Whiplash “suffers” from one of my biggest comic book movie pet peeves: the villain always has to have some sort of connection to the hero. But Mickey Rourke brought the goods and sold me on what the film was doing. Kudos. And then War Machine, one of my least-favorite armors introduced in the ten years or so I read the comic was highlighted in this film. I could never understand why ballistics was needed for an armor based on repulsor technology, which seemed more powerful—and didn’t have to explain where all the bullets are stored. But I gotta say: seeing (and hearing) Rhodey pumping lead into the bad guys was pretty cool. B+
Justice League: Crisis on Two Earths— Another adaptation of a comic book graphic novel. But this one had more heart to it than most as well as more “that was cool” moments. If you’re a comic book fan or superhero fan, this is a good one to watch (but still not mandatory). B
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Premieres and Notables; August 2-8, 2010
Gotta do this a little early this week. Don't have next week's Entertainment Weekly yet, so I may post an addendum later...
Monday, 8/2
The Bachelorette (ABC; 7 pm CST). Season Finale.
Last American Cowboy (Animal Planet; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Tuesday, 8/3
Shaq Vs. ABC. 8:01 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
Tonight he races against Dale Earnhardt Jr, but it's not all sports this season...
The Rachel Zoe Project; Bravo. 9 pm CST. 3rd Season Premiere.
Scrappers; Spike. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Dumpster divers in Brooklyn look for big scores in the metal department.
For real.
Wednesday, 8/4
Dark Blue; TNT. 8 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
...With new cast member Tricia Helfer.
Chris Angel: Mindfreak; A&E. 9 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Thursday, 8/5
The Squad: Prison Police; A&E. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
This reality show follows cops as they solve crimes committed in prison.
Friday, 8/6
Friday Night Lights (NBC; 7 pm CST). Season Finale (on NBC).
Monday, 8/2
The Bachelorette (ABC; 7 pm CST). Season Finale.
Last American Cowboy (Animal Planet; 9 pm CST). Season Finale.
Tuesday, 8/3
Shaq Vs. ABC. 8:01 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
Tonight he races against Dale Earnhardt Jr, but it's not all sports this season...
The Rachel Zoe Project; Bravo. 9 pm CST. 3rd Season Premiere.
Scrappers; Spike. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Dumpster divers in Brooklyn look for big scores in the metal department.
For real.
Wednesday, 8/4
Dark Blue; TNT. 8 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
...With new cast member Tricia Helfer.
Chris Angel: Mindfreak; A&E. 9 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Thursday, 8/5
The Squad: Prison Police; A&E. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
This reality show follows cops as they solve crimes committed in prison.
Friday, 8/6
Friday Night Lights (NBC; 7 pm CST). Season Finale (on NBC).
Lebron Turns Heel on Cleveland
I didn't realize the Lebron situation paralleled another big heel turn from the past...
2010 Q2 Movie Grades, A-F
Well, it's time again. Time to list the films I watched and give them a grade.
And after the last two review periods, I also need to not grade something in such a way that my movie guru, Tom, has to call me out on (I don't completely agree with his thoughts Home Alone, but I admit I messed up up on Terminator Salvation-- I didn't think it was awful, but I did forget about the thing with the heart-- bad).
Like I say every time: A's are works of art, B's are worth watching, C's have good and bad, D's may have one redeeming quality, and F's suck ass.
I also note how I watched it. Everything is in the form of a DVD unless otherwise mentioned (films I see in theatres usually get a little bump just for the experience of being in a theatre and I note "TV" as those that couldn't get a little bump via "extras" that a DVD or BluRay Disc could get).
Otherwise, the grades are based on the work-- or the entertainment value (I try to differentiate when there is a strong leaning toward one or the other).
Finally, I stopped trying to write a lot about each film. I wrote what I felt and tried to keep it succinct (except in some cases that deserved more-- or at least I had more to say).
Let's go. Starting with A:
Astro Boy— I admit to not watching this 100% from beginning to end, but what I did see was decent. Fairly typical story, but the visuals were pretty beautiful. Not sure why this didn’t do better other than it wasn’t terribly unique—and probably the anime fanboys blasted it because it was “too American”. I don’t know; I found it enjoyable—but I have no previous experience with the character. C+
Big Fan— A story about a pathetic “little” man who cares for nothing but his beloved New York Giants. He meets his linebacker idol, who then kicks his ass (he had good reasons). The “big fan” has to reconcile his feelings for his favorite player and his favorite team with the reality that he was badly hurt by that player all while fellow fans and family members are giving him advice to sue the player—or else to not do anything that could jeopardize the Giants’ chances during he football season (like press charges, so the linebacker can’t play).
This is one of those odd flicks I like to call “slice of life” films. It’s like a snapshot of one particular time in a character’s life. These films usually highlight one or more of the following artists: actor, director, or writer. There’s usually not much more to them. The film ends on pretty much the same note as it begins; there’s no “new way of looking at life” or new lifestyle (it’s kinda like an episode of The Simpsons; the story happened, but if you didn’t watch it, you can watch the next episode and not have “missed” anything). These films are not bad, they just don’t seem to have a reason to exist other than to show-off a little. In this case, Patton Oswalt got to show off his dramatic chops; and they are impressive.
Good movie for what it was (I think it accomplished what it set out to do), but I wished there had been something more to cling onto. B+ for the work, B- for the film.
Food, Inc.—TV. I had heard a lot about this movie, and I finally got the time to watch it. This documentary takes a look at where the vast majority of our food comes from. It’s not from the cute, red-painted barns we’re led to believe in our hearts (and we know it’s not true in our heads already). It’s a cruel, manufacturing-based business. For example, chickens are breed to be so bulky in the chest (because Americans want breast meat) that the rest of their bodies can’t keep up. The chickens are bred to be grown so quickly, their bones often break under the strain. But that’s okay, the chicken coops are so crowded that the chickens have no room to move anyway. The sheer number of them keeps them upright—because there is no room to fall down.
We also see how corporations keep the farmers “down” by constantly insisting on new, expensive technology, which keeps the farmers in debt. If the farmers don’t like the new things, they can’t complain because they owe so much, they need the corporate contracts to pay their bills. Corporations also hound the “little man” so much, if they don’t play ball, they’re run out of business.
But that’s all “okay” because consumers get to buy food for less than it costs to produce the food because of subsidies and lobbying efforts.
So the film reminds us to eat organic and try to avoid the corporate-mindset food products. Good advice, but I also know that if the entire world was fed with organic foods, there would be no land left because it would all be needed to farm. As terrible as the conditions are (and it’s not just livestock, plants have the same production-line mentality, which has helped with the rise of problems like e coli), the mass-production of food has made it easy for most people to eat—and the yields are so great, that less land is needed (even with the price of more engineered and tampered-with food).
It’s a tough choice. I guess trying to meet somewhere in the middle is the best way to approach our food choices. This movie is recommended—but you may not want to know where your food comes from… B
And after the last two review periods, I also need to not grade something in such a way that my movie guru, Tom, has to call me out on (I don't completely agree with his thoughts Home Alone, but I admit I messed up up on Terminator Salvation-- I didn't think it was awful, but I did forget about the thing with the heart-- bad).
Like I say every time: A's are works of art, B's are worth watching, C's have good and bad, D's may have one redeeming quality, and F's suck ass.
I also note how I watched it. Everything is in the form of a DVD unless otherwise mentioned (films I see in theatres usually get a little bump just for the experience of being in a theatre and I note "TV" as those that couldn't get a little bump via "extras" that a DVD or BluRay Disc could get).
Otherwise, the grades are based on the work-- or the entertainment value (I try to differentiate when there is a strong leaning toward one or the other).
Finally, I stopped trying to write a lot about each film. I wrote what I felt and tried to keep it succinct (except in some cases that deserved more-- or at least I had more to say).
Let's go. Starting with A:
Astro Boy— I admit to not watching this 100% from beginning to end, but what I did see was decent. Fairly typical story, but the visuals were pretty beautiful. Not sure why this didn’t do better other than it wasn’t terribly unique—and probably the anime fanboys blasted it because it was “too American”. I don’t know; I found it enjoyable—but I have no previous experience with the character. C+
Big Fan— A story about a pathetic “little” man who cares for nothing but his beloved New York Giants. He meets his linebacker idol, who then kicks his ass (he had good reasons). The “big fan” has to reconcile his feelings for his favorite player and his favorite team with the reality that he was badly hurt by that player all while fellow fans and family members are giving him advice to sue the player—or else to not do anything that could jeopardize the Giants’ chances during he football season (like press charges, so the linebacker can’t play).
This is one of those odd flicks I like to call “slice of life” films. It’s like a snapshot of one particular time in a character’s life. These films usually highlight one or more of the following artists: actor, director, or writer. There’s usually not much more to them. The film ends on pretty much the same note as it begins; there’s no “new way of looking at life” or new lifestyle (it’s kinda like an episode of The Simpsons; the story happened, but if you didn’t watch it, you can watch the next episode and not have “missed” anything). These films are not bad, they just don’t seem to have a reason to exist other than to show-off a little. In this case, Patton Oswalt got to show off his dramatic chops; and they are impressive.
Good movie for what it was (I think it accomplished what it set out to do), but I wished there had been something more to cling onto. B+ for the work, B- for the film.
Food, Inc.—TV. I had heard a lot about this movie, and I finally got the time to watch it. This documentary takes a look at where the vast majority of our food comes from. It’s not from the cute, red-painted barns we’re led to believe in our hearts (and we know it’s not true in our heads already). It’s a cruel, manufacturing-based business. For example, chickens are breed to be so bulky in the chest (because Americans want breast meat) that the rest of their bodies can’t keep up. The chickens are bred to be grown so quickly, their bones often break under the strain. But that’s okay, the chicken coops are so crowded that the chickens have no room to move anyway. The sheer number of them keeps them upright—because there is no room to fall down.
We also see how corporations keep the farmers “down” by constantly insisting on new, expensive technology, which keeps the farmers in debt. If the farmers don’t like the new things, they can’t complain because they owe so much, they need the corporate contracts to pay their bills. Corporations also hound the “little man” so much, if they don’t play ball, they’re run out of business.
But that’s all “okay” because consumers get to buy food for less than it costs to produce the food because of subsidies and lobbying efforts.
So the film reminds us to eat organic and try to avoid the corporate-mindset food products. Good advice, but I also know that if the entire world was fed with organic foods, there would be no land left because it would all be needed to farm. As terrible as the conditions are (and it’s not just livestock, plants have the same production-line mentality, which has helped with the rise of problems like e coli), the mass-production of food has made it easy for most people to eat—and the yields are so great, that less land is needed (even with the price of more engineered and tampered-with food).
It’s a tough choice. I guess trying to meet somewhere in the middle is the best way to approach our food choices. This movie is recommended—but you may not want to know where your food comes from… B
Steve Jobs Goes to the Dark Side
Sure it's in Chinese, but I think you can get the gist that Jobs has really f-ed up the iPhone 4 issues.
(But just in case, hopefully the English subtitles will show on this).
I love Jobs' "solution" to the antenna problem-- and the crack that he has a "reality distortion field".
Seriously, Steve, if you're going to bend people over-- without even a bottle of lube-- you should have a product that actually works consistently. Whether it's a moronic place to put the antenna or going with a shitty carrier (at least in large cities), you can fix this mess without being a tool about it.
(But just in case, hopefully the English subtitles will show on this).
I love Jobs' "solution" to the antenna problem-- and the crack that he has a "reality distortion field".
Seriously, Steve, if you're going to bend people over-- without even a bottle of lube-- you should have a product that actually works consistently. Whether it's a moronic place to put the antenna or going with a shitty carrier (at least in large cities), you can fix this mess without being a tool about it.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Mel Rants at Drew
Wow-- the internet jumped all over this one quickly.
Here's one of the best ones I've seen:
BTW: Mel, you're a d-bag...
Here's one of the best ones I've seen:
BTW: Mel, you're a d-bag...
Monday, July 26, 2010
AOTS Gadget Pron: Western Digital Media Player
Kevin had me rolling on the floor with "Boom!".
I love when he messes with Olivia to throw off the segments...
I love when he messes with Olivia to throw off the segments...
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Premieres and Notables; July 26- August 1, 2010
Monday, 7/26
Fish Warrior; National Geographic. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Because there aren't enough fishing reality shows....
Tuesday, 7/27
Deadliest Catch (Discovery; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Masterchef; FOX. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Because Gordon Ramsey doesn't have enough freakin' shows...
Growing Up Twisted; A&E. 9 & 9:30 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Because there aren't enough '80s hard rock/heavy metal singer reality shows (this one features Dee Snyder-- and his family; because Gene Simmons shouldn't have a lock on that genre)...
Wednesday, 7/28
Plain Jane; The CW. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Because there aren't enough (people) makeover shows airing right now...
Thursday, 7/29
Project Runway; Lifetime. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Saturday, 7/31
COPS: Coast to Coast (FOX; 7 pm CST). Season Finale.
Saturday, 7/31
Beautiful People (logo; 9 pm CST). Series Finale.
Sunday, 8/1
Sons of Tucson (FOX; 6 pm CST). Series Finale.
Thanks to FOX for airing all the episodes (at least I think they did).
This wasn't a great show, but it deserved to have all their eps shown-- it was better than cancellation.
Maybe if FOX would have had a decent (or any) live-action comedy to pair it up with...
Rubicon; AMC. 7 pm CST. Series Premiere.
About all I know is this is a thriller set in the world of intelligence agencies and espionage, and there's a mystery or three to figure out.
I guess all we really need to know is it's a show on AMC, and they've got a pretty good track record in the drama department lately.
Goin' Country; Versus. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Okay, this is too weird not to mention:
Former American Idol contestant Kristy Lee Cook travels the country in her quest to be a professional singer. Along the way, she goes on hunting excursions.
Fish Warrior; National Geographic. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Because there aren't enough fishing reality shows....
Tuesday, 7/27
Deadliest Catch (Discovery; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
Masterchef; FOX. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Because Gordon Ramsey doesn't have enough freakin' shows...
Growing Up Twisted; A&E. 9 & 9:30 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Because there aren't enough '80s hard rock/heavy metal singer reality shows (this one features Dee Snyder-- and his family; because Gene Simmons shouldn't have a lock on that genre)...
Wednesday, 7/28
Plain Jane; The CW. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Because there aren't enough (people) makeover shows airing right now...
Thursday, 7/29
Project Runway; Lifetime. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
Saturday, 7/31
COPS: Coast to Coast (FOX; 7 pm CST). Season Finale.
Saturday, 7/31
Beautiful People (logo; 9 pm CST). Series Finale.
Sunday, 8/1
Sons of Tucson (FOX; 6 pm CST). Series Finale.
Thanks to FOX for airing all the episodes (at least I think they did).
This wasn't a great show, but it deserved to have all their eps shown-- it was better than cancellation.
Maybe if FOX would have had a decent (or any) live-action comedy to pair it up with...
Rubicon; AMC. 7 pm CST. Series Premiere.
About all I know is this is a thriller set in the world of intelligence agencies and espionage, and there's a mystery or three to figure out.
I guess all we really need to know is it's a show on AMC, and they've got a pretty good track record in the drama department lately.
Goin' Country; Versus. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
Okay, this is too weird not to mention:
Former American Idol contestant Kristy Lee Cook travels the country in her quest to be a professional singer. Along the way, she goes on hunting excursions.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Friday, July 23, 2010
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Monday, July 19, 2010
Willy Wonka WTF
I guess there's a whole "WTF bomb" "genre" of parodies out there.
Here's the one I thought was the funniest (of the dozen I've seen so far):
Here's the one I thought was the funniest (of the dozen I've seen so far):
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Premieres and Notables; July 19-25, 2010
Monday, 7/19
Degrassi: The Next Generation; TeenNick. 8 pm CST. 10th Season Premiere.
RuPaul's Drag U; Logo. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
True Beauty (ABC; 9:02 pm CST) Series Finale.
Tuesday, 7/20
Losing It With Jillian (NBC; 7 pm CST). Season Finale.
Wednesday, 7/21
Super Pooches; TLC. 7 pm CST. Series Premiere.
This reality series follows dogs who compete in the Best In Show circuit.
Really...
Confessions: Animal Hoarding; Animal Planet. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
A series that looks at people who accumulate a few too many pets.
Like the guy who has 30 cats living with him.
Yep. This is now a show.
Intersections; Speed. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
A show that looks at things like how an F/A-18 Fighter and a dragster can go so fast.
Yep. Really.
24 Hour Restaurant Battle; Food Network. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
As listed by TV Guide (I just can't write this crap):
"Competing couples have just one day to open their dream eateries in hopes of winning over hard-to-please chef-restaurateur Scott Conant."
A whole day...? Geez-- some restaurants can't get their menus together in a day.
I'm sure the end result will be brilliant; absolutely the place I'd want to go eat.
Gimme a break.
Thursday, 7/22
Battle of the Supercars; Speed. 9 pm CST. Series premiere.
Two drivers race supercars (like a Ferrari and a Porsche in the premiere) to see which is the best.
Friday, 7/23
The Pillars of the Earth; Starz. 9 pm CST. Mini-series.
A 6-Friday/8-hour adaptation of the Ken Follett book.
Saturday, 7/24
Doctor Who (BBC America; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
The Doctor Who season finales usually are balls-out adventures. It's worth checking out.
"But I haven't seen any other episodes."
Hmmm... What if I told you that the entire 5th Season (the first for 11th Doctor Matt Smith) airs just before this ep? That's right, at 8 am this morning, BBC America reruns the whole season that leads to this season finale.
I'll admit, Smith's Doctor comes off a little goofy at first, but the end of that first episode has one of my all-time favorite scenes near the end: when The Doctor faces down an alien fleet and tells them Earth is protected by him, so they had better run.
He may be goofy, but he's also a bad-ass.
(And human companion Amy Pond is cute and sexy and spunky, which is always fun to watch.)
Being Human; BBC America. 9 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
Sunday, 7/25
I Survived... Bio. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
My Boys; TBS. 9 pm CST. 4th Season Premiere.
Ahhh... It's finally summer with this show on the schedule.
Not great, not gut-busting; but a lot of fun.
Mad Men; AMC. 9 pm CST. 4th Season Premiere.
Degrassi: The Next Generation; TeenNick. 8 pm CST. 10th Season Premiere.
RuPaul's Drag U; Logo. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
True Beauty (ABC; 9:02 pm CST) Series Finale.
Tuesday, 7/20
Losing It With Jillian (NBC; 7 pm CST). Season Finale.
Wednesday, 7/21
Super Pooches; TLC. 7 pm CST. Series Premiere.
This reality series follows dogs who compete in the Best In Show circuit.
Really...
Confessions: Animal Hoarding; Animal Planet. 8 pm CST. Series Premiere.
A series that looks at people who accumulate a few too many pets.
Like the guy who has 30 cats living with him.
Yep. This is now a show.
Intersections; Speed. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
A show that looks at things like how an F/A-18 Fighter and a dragster can go so fast.
Yep. Really.
24 Hour Restaurant Battle; Food Network. 9 pm CST. Series Premiere.
As listed by TV Guide (I just can't write this crap):
"Competing couples have just one day to open their dream eateries in hopes of winning over hard-to-please chef-restaurateur Scott Conant."
A whole day...? Geez-- some restaurants can't get their menus together in a day.
I'm sure the end result will be brilliant; absolutely the place I'd want to go eat.
Gimme a break.
Thursday, 7/22
Battle of the Supercars; Speed. 9 pm CST. Series premiere.
Two drivers race supercars (like a Ferrari and a Porsche in the premiere) to see which is the best.
Friday, 7/23
The Pillars of the Earth; Starz. 9 pm CST. Mini-series.
A 6-Friday/8-hour adaptation of the Ken Follett book.
Saturday, 7/24
Doctor Who (BBC America; 8 pm CST). Season Finale.
The Doctor Who season finales usually are balls-out adventures. It's worth checking out.
"But I haven't seen any other episodes."
Hmmm... What if I told you that the entire 5th Season (the first for 11th Doctor Matt Smith) airs just before this ep? That's right, at 8 am this morning, BBC America reruns the whole season that leads to this season finale.
I'll admit, Smith's Doctor comes off a little goofy at first, but the end of that first episode has one of my all-time favorite scenes near the end: when The Doctor faces down an alien fleet and tells them Earth is protected by him, so they had better run.
He may be goofy, but he's also a bad-ass.
(And human companion Amy Pond is cute and sexy and spunky, which is always fun to watch.)
Being Human; BBC America. 9 pm CST. 2nd Season Premiere.
Sunday, 7/25
I Survived... Bio. 8 pm CST. Season Premiere.
My Boys; TBS. 9 pm CST. 4th Season Premiere.
Ahhh... It's finally summer with this show on the schedule.
Not great, not gut-busting; but a lot of fun.
Mad Men; AMC. 9 pm CST. 4th Season Premiere.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Friday, July 16, 2010
Strut That Ass
Okay-- I have NO idea what he's goin' on about...
...But you've gotta admit: he's got style.
...But you've gotta admit: he's got style.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Monday, July 12, 2010
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