A few movie recommendations today, as well as one to caution against. Spent Friday enjoying a few Netflix. Two great movies, one less than superb. Also found a treasure at the used bookstore.
First, my treasure. State & Main. A whole $11 at Bookman’s, totally worth it. There’s something about movies that revolve around making a movie that entertain me.
So we have the cast and crew of this film, “The Old Mill,” being forced to leave their location because of the lead actor’s (Alec Baldwin) indiscretions with a young girl. You’ve got William H. Macy as a producer that you hate, trying to get this production put together while cutting corners. Their budget has been drained and the change of location hasn’t made things easier. First time screenwriter Joe White (Philip Seymour Hoffman) is sweet and a bit naïve about the business still. He confronts the usual issues of compromising his integrity, changing his story, and adapting to life with these film people.
Alec Baldwin (Bob) and Sarah Jessica Parker (Claire) are actors playing actors. The locals in the town are fascinated by the film crew and begin to ignore their normal routines to be involved with the process. Young Carla (Julia Stiles) takes an interest in Bob. While the local bookstore owner, Ann (Rebecca Pidgeon), strikes up a friendship with writer Joe. I’ll stop the summary there, if I keep going I’ll end up giving everything away.
A very funny, intelligent movie. Worth renting or buying, you’ll want to watch it a few more times. I really don’t know how this film stayed off my radar for as long as it did. Luckily I’m going through a Philip Seymour Hoffman phase right now. Brilliant cast, great script, make time to check this out.
Finally saw Protocol! (To which I cannot find the trailer)
Goldie Hawn comedy from 1984. The plot is simple enough Sunny Davis (Hawn) is a sweet, straightforward waitress at a failing safari themed bar. One night she prevents an assassination of a dignitary and is shot in the process. Of course the media gets involved, suddenly this struggling cocktail waitress is in the public eye. She is given a job in the protocol department, unaware of the fact that she is being used. It’s a fairly predictable film, but with the cast makes it worthwhile. In smaller roles you’ve got Ed Begley Jr., Jean Smart, Kenneth Mars, Chris Sarandon and Cliff De Young (I have an on going game to see how many times I spot Cliff De Young, he’s like Waldo).
On a whim I added Table for Three (2009) to my queue. The trailer looked funny enough and Johnny Galecki has a small role. It actually turned out to be a really amusing movie.
Brandon Routh plays Scott Teller, a single guy who has just been broken up with and is grudgingly on the hunt for a new roommate. He ends up renting the room to a couple, Mary (Sophia Bush) and Ryan (Jesse Bradford). Not just any couple, the most obnoxiously perfect couple imaginable. They begin to hang out as a group of three, but things are threatened with Scott meets Leslie (Jennifer Morrison). Mary and Ryan take it upon themselves to sabotage the relationship. It’s a very funny movie, full of a lot of those moments where you want to cover your eyes but can’t look away.
Now a less than glowing review for Dr. T and the Women (2000). Richard Gere is Dr. T, a popular gynecologist in Texas. His wife Kate (Farrah Fawcett) has had some kind of mental break, supposedly from being loved too much. His daughter Connie (Tara Reid), a conspiracy theory enthusiast is often busy giving tours of the grassy knoll and book depository. His other daughter Dee Dee (Kate Hudson) is a Cowboys alternative cheerleader planning her wedding. Her relationship with maid of honor Marilyn (Liv Tyler) is called into question, are they friends or more than that. Then there is Dr. T’s relationship with new golf pro Bree (Helen Hunt).
Overall, I was expecting something more from this movie. I only found three of the characters really interesting (Connie, Kate and Shelley Long’s character Carolyn). As usual I was less than pleased with their portrayal of a conspiracy theory enthusiast, for some reason Hollywood seems to think that anyone who has an interest in theories is insecure and unstable.
Farrah Fawcett does a spectacular job as Kate and I ended up wanting to see more about her character. There was just something lacking in the story, it failed to hold my attention and seemed rather lackluster, the ending in particular. Also there should be a warning when a movie is going to show the birthing process. I don’t need to see that, nor do I care to. Just a little heads up would’ve been nice. Less than impressed, I wouldn’t bother seeing this movie if you don’t have to.
I’m going to end up watching State & Main again. Two Netflix should be arriving today: The Savages and Sky High.
And a little reminder that The Hangover is out on DVD today. One of the best comedies I’ve seen in a while. So be sure to check it out.
Long time between posts, apologies and bygones to my three readers. With the semester wrapping up now, hopefully updates will be a bit more frequent.
Saw two great movies in theatre these past couple of weeks.
Pirate Radio (or The Boat That Rocked if you're of the UK persuasion)
One of my favorite movies, not just for 2009 but all time. Saw it twice in the theatre, it has to be good for me to go more than once.
First of all the cast. A stellar group of performers that offer something for everyone.
Philip Seymour Hoffman is the incredible DJ known only as "The Count." I am now convinced that he is one of the most talented actors out there and doesn't get the amount of recognition he deserves.
Also in the cast Nick Frost, a delight for those of us who are fans of Hot Fuzz, Spaced and Shaun of the Dead. Bill Nighy, who we all know as the aging pop star from Love Actually. The majority of the cast is British and fans of BBC shows will recognize them as such. Also a small appearance from January Jones, Mrs. Betty Draper herself!
And a very special surprise actor/actress that I will not mention, cause I'd hate to spoil it for those who've yet to see.
The story takes place in the 1960s, when pop and rock music were banned from British radio stations. Because of this pirate radio stations were popping up in the North Sea, Radio Rock the most popular. Young Carl is sent to live with his godfather, Quintin (Nighy) and we go from there. The government is hell bent on shutting them down and the effort is lead by Kenneth Branagh. It's a brilliantly written script, lots of British humor. The same writer and director of Love Actually, Richard Curtis, guarantees a high production value.
Something else to be commented on: The Music. Oh my God. Hands down one of the best soundtracks I've heard in a long time. It's the beauty of a period piece, none of those emo, alt rock songs you get today with every independent film out there. The Kinks, The Beach Boys, The Who. I actually didn't have to buy the soundtrack because I already had most of the songs. After I left the theatre there was no way I could get my music loud enough. Philip Seymour Hoffman gives a great speech about the music and what it represents, how you can try to silence the radio stations but there's no way you can silence the message.
See this movie, even if you have to go out of the way.
The Blind Side
This was really an incredible movie. Perfect for the holiday release.
Based on a true story a family takes in a homeless young man who goes to school with their kids. I think you get the gist of things from the trailer, but it really is a well made, touching movie. It's got moments of cliche, but what movie doesn't. Sandra Bullock is hands down one of my favorite actresses of all time and I think it's time she got herself an Oscar. Kathy Bates and Tim McGraw also do justice to the roles they fill. And of course Quinton Aaron who plays Michael is just incredible as the male lead.
Definitely worth seeing if you haven't already.
Coming up, that I really want to see:
It's Complicated
Holy Cast, Batman! Most excited to see Steve Martin, "Not a great time to be feeling groovy"
The Strip
I'm in it for Dave Foley, shocker I know.
Sherlock Holmes
I'm a Holmes fan from way back, ever since the 7th grade. So I do have mixed feelings on this. Ultimately every reproduction of Holmes can bring something new and incredible but at the same time anger those of us who enjoy the canon. The original text aside, I really like the look of Robert Downy Jr. and Jude Law as Holmes and Watson, they seem to have a nice chemistry, looking forward to the release.
So I missed most of season 3 of Mad Men. I've only caught the last three or four episodes. You faithful watchers can just imagine my surprise when I was watching "The Grown Ups" this past Sunday and Duck suddenly calls Peggy looking for some afternoon delight. Apparently not a surprising action if I had seen this:
So I have two different positions on this.
(1) Ew. Well... ew-ish. I just never thought of these two together. Personally I was always a bit bummed that Peggy didn't end up with Paul, I think it was. The guy who was really nice to her in season 1 and took her for lunch, then kissed her in the office. And I am of course happy that it's not Pete. I hate Pete. I want to punch him in the head.
(2) Score one for those who enjoy unusual pairings. I am one of these people. I really enjoy when shows pull something like this, putting two random characters together. (Which explains my desire for a Toby/Kelly shipping on The Office) It creates a level of realism, gives the audience a break from all the beautiful people getting together.
Keeping with the vein of Mad Men, does anything think we're going to see some more Joan/Roger development? I don't know why, but there's something just deliciously interesting about them and these little moments they keep having on the phone.
Now. "The Grown Ups" Season 3 Episode 12. Bullet-points baby!
How freaking incredible! I've been waiting to see how they were going to handle the Kennedy Assassination. And I think they did so beautifully.
The whole time that Pete and Harry were talking and you could see the news playing quietly in the background. I was just going "turn up the volume! Look to your left!"
Again, I was a bit blindsided by the whole Duck/Peggy thing.
Everything with the wedding was just the best kind of tension.
I love that at the end of the night Roger was on the phone with Joan. There's something I don't like about Jane, she's like the poor man's Joan.
Thought the way they framed everything beginning with Kennedy's assassination, having that tension afterwards, and then the climax of the show coming at the same time as Oswald being shot by Ruby. As a student of writing I enjoyed it and as a conspiracy theory enthusiast I was impressed with how they used the material.
A great night of TV. I really wish that they had a longer season but at the same time they really pack each episode.
Netflix Score this week! April in Pars (1952) a musical starring Doris Day, Ray Bolger, and Claude Dauphin. One of my all time favorite movies, but one that has been difficult to track down.
The first time I saw this movie was at my Grandma's house. She had it on VHS and I remember sitting in the spare bedroom (that's where the VCR was), watching this technicolor delight. My Grandma had a ton of costume jewelry and scarves that were there for me to play with. So I got all dressed up; long silver gloves, which at the time went all the way up my arms, clip on earrings that looked like a bouquet of navy blue flowers with rhinestones in the middle, a large dinner ring to match, and a string of fake pearls. Also a scarf that I would tie around my head as a girl in a convertible would. In my case it was when I went into the hallway cause that was "outside."
I would pretend that it was the 50s and going to the movies was a big to-do. I'd tie my white, flowery scarf around my head, skip downstairs to get a bowl of popcorn and return to the "theatre" aka spare room. I can't help but think of my Grandma when I think about Doris Day. A lot of my love for music from the 40s and 50s comes from Gram. In particular the song "Que Sera Sera" which Gram would change to "Que Sara Sara" for my benefit.
This movie has always stayed with me. It's a situation of letters being sent to the wrong women. An invitation to represent Broadway at a festival in France was sent to Ethel "Dynamite" Jackson, a chorus girl played by Doris Day. Assistant Secretary to the Assistant to the Undersecretary of State, S. Winthrop Putnam, must try and fix this situation. But ends up infatuated with Dynamite.
Terrific musical numbers, my favorite is We're Gonna Ring the Bell Tonight. Which is a grand number that takes place on the ship traveling to France.
I won't give anything else away, but if you've seen any of the Doris Day musicals, you can probably guess how it ends. Never-the-less, it's delightful.
An incredible day for a this fangirl. Twitter is awesome. I'm starting out with that statement. Not only does it allow me to keep up with people, it gives me an opportunity to follow celebrities in ways I never imagined possible. When I was a little girl watching Full House I never thought that I'd be able to follow Danny Tanner.
So, I'm a Kevin Smith fan. All the way. I have a whole shelf of DVDs that are either his own work or just things he popped up in. I'm a fan. That being said, I of course follow him on Twitter.
Here's what he Tweeted:
Happy (Canadian) Thanksgiving to my adopted home planet of Canada. I'd like to enter the red chamber, lose my powers, and have sex with you. Here's what I Tweeted back: @ThatKevinSmith only problem with that is how you get back from the icy location with powers gone. Here's when I stopped breathing: ThatKevinSmith Via @Millerita "only problem: how u get back from icy location with powers gone." If I wasn't married... I'd still love your Tweet. Bless. I've just been giggling a lot through out the day. A good day for this fangirl. There's something that is just awesome when a celeb that you admire replies to you. That's all for right now. I might do another post later tonight, I have a few topics that I've been mulling over for the past couple of days.
I love Law and Order Criminal Intent. It is a fantastic show and the truth of the matter is that I started to watch it because of Vincent D'Onofrio. I believe it to be one of the more original shows that has been on TV in the last 10 years. Bobby Goren is a truly interesting and unique character. And the interaction between Goren and everyone else is part of the reason that I maintained this fandom.
Like many, I was upset when they announced that Vincent D'Onofrio was leaving and that Kathyrn Erbe was going to be phased out along with Eric Bogosian. In all honesty I probably won't continue to watch the show without these two main characters/actors. But I won't be boycotting the show or the network for that matter. In most of the interviews I've read D'Onofrio has said that he's decided to leave because they've done all that they can with his character. And I can see the reasoning behind that logic. He has given a lot to this show and this character. Anyone else remember why they brought the second team in? Because VDO collapsed on set a couple of times, he's given his all to this franchise and has decided to move on from it.
Kathyrn Erbe has also been with the show all along. Most shows don't last this long and if they do the cast usually switches out much earlier. Am I bummed out about the direction the show will probably end up taking? Of course. Am I angry? No. I like USA Network. They allowed CI to go somewhere that it never would've been able to as a lead in for SVU. We got some REALLY GREAT development with Bobby's character and Alex for that matter.
As a fan of both of these actors I'm hoping that this will give them both the opportunity to do more work. VDO has mostly done smaller roles during his years on CI and hopefully this'll mean I have to clear out some space on my D'Onofrio DVD shelf for new movies.
Plus. There's always fanfiction. Goodness knows that's what I've been using during the season break.
But again, I certainly won't be boycotting USA. Hello, Burn Notice, In Plain Sight, Psych, they do have good shows.
Finally started watching Mad Men, didn't go out and buy it mind you. Netflix baby. It's actually an interesting show and I'm really enjoying it. Don Draper is a bit of a tool, personally I'd like to see more of some of the other characters. Definitely going to add season 2 to my queue.
Life on Mars came out on DVD today. Waiting till Friday to get it. I really wish that life would've lasted a little longer. Such a terrific show, interesting, incredible cast, and just down right fun. However, it seems that a lot of the shows that actually require thought don't last too long. Of course that just might be me being bitter about loosing a weekly installment of Michael Imperioli and awesome 70s music. A show worth checking out. The best summation of this show "Like the UK version; except with less tea and more ass kicking."
Hooked on Alias! Holy crap! I have no words to describe how much I adore this show... that's a lie, I can find the words. Spy shows are going to win me over every time. They have ever since I was a little girl, running around dressed all in black, calling myself Jane Bond. There's humor in it, constant ass kicking, disguises, gadgets and Victor Garber. Everything required for an awesome show. Who would've thought that the best friend from Sleepless in Seattle would make such an awesome Spy-dad. Also Tarantino makes a couple of appearances... that's where I lack words. There was a small appearance by Ricky Gervais as well, Jack Bristow kicks his ass. So worth buying season 3. I'm working my way through season 4 right now and will get around to 5 shortly.
Have found myself enjoying NCIS lately. Considering that it's on a constant loop on USA and that my dad and sister are both big fans. I always avoided because I didn't want to get sucked into another crime show but this one seems to be original in its mannerisms.
Watched the movie Management with my sister this afternoon. It's Steve Zahn and Jennifer Anniston. An okay movie, drags a bit here and there. Kind of a way to tell those future stalkers out there that if you persist it'll work out for ya. Not required viewing by any means, but there are worse things you could watch.
First off. The sad news. It's been confirmed that Vincent D'Onofrio is leaving Criminal Intent at the beginning of the 9th season. He said in one article that he was ready to leave and thought that they've done everything they can with the character of Goren. As a CI fan I'm so incredibly bummed to hear this. As a VDO fan I'm excited that this might mean a few more movies with him. I don't know yet if I'll keep watching CI, I started to watch it for the expressed purpose of weekly D'Onofrio and I just don't really care for Jeff Goldblum in this role. Also I'm not sure how they're going to do this. The actress who had been Chris Noth's partner, then Jeff Goldblum's is leaving the show and most articles say that Kathryn Erbe and Eric Bogosian are going to be phased out. Basically they're going to be starting from scratch.
On to happier topics, the last two weeks were mostly focused on premier week.
The Office - Strong out of the gate as always. It was a nice throw back to the earlier episodes that just focus on the going-ons at Dunder Mifflin Scranton. Dwight, Andy and Michael OWNED the cold open!
Big Bang Theory - I was so excited for season 3 to start. I got into this show at the end of last spring and up until that point only saw season 1 and clips of season 2 offline. When this premier finally rolled around I was giddy! And it certainly delivered! I do feel a little weird about Penny and Leonard being together. As much as I hate to admit it I've become a little bit of Penny/Sheldon shipper. That probably has more to do with me wanting Leonard for myself. Another great appearance by Laurie Metcalf as Sheldon's mother.
House - HOLY CRAP! Okay if Hugh Laurie doesn't get an Emmy for season 6 I'm going to think that the whole thing is fixed. The two hour premier was IN-FREAKING-CREDIBLE! I wasn't crazy about him and that other woman, I'm a long time Huddy shipper, from the very first episode of season 1. Loved House in the mental institution and his interaction with the other inmates.
Numb3rs - The Premier is tonight, very excited. Finally getting some more in the way of Charlie/Amita.
The Jay Leno Show - I actually enjoy it. More then I enjoyed the 10.00 dramas. It's nice to have some comedy before the ever depressing news. Hopefully it'll work out well. It is basically a pared down version of Jay's Tonight Show. But it has been fun thus far.
Off the top of my head those are the shows I can think of. I'm waiting impatiently for the second half of Burn Notice season 3. Fanfiction for a reason people.
My annual Emmy post! That time of year again, the Primetime Emmy Awards are on Sunday night. CBS is airing them this year, Neil Patrick Harris is hosting (a big step up from last year’s monstrosity that they called hosting). I’ll skip a repeat of that rant and just move along to the nominees and my picks.
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series
Steve Carell – Michael Scott on “The Office”
Tony Shalhoub – Adrian Monk on “Monk”
Jemaine Clement – Jemaine on “Flight of the Conchords”
Jim Parsons – Sheldon Cooper on “The Big Bang Theory”
Alec Baldwin – Jack Donaghy on “30 Rock”
Charlie Sheen – Charlie Harper “Two and a Half Men”
My Pick: Jim Parsons – Sheldon Cooper
My thoughts: In a perfect world it would be a tie between my two favorites, Steve Carell and Jim Parsons. This award has gone to Alec Baldwin over the last couple of years, each time I’ve disagreed with this. I watch 30 Rock and while it is an amusing show clearly this should go to Jim Parsons for Big Bang Theory (I’m not going to get started on the fact that Johnny Galecki was not nominated, wtf?). I really think he’s got the best chance this year. Although it would be a nice way for Tony Shalhoub to go out as this is the last season of Monk.
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series
Sarah Silverman – Sarah Silverman on “The Sarah Silverman Program” (Holy crap)
Mary-Louise Parker – Nancy Botwin on “Weeds”
Julia Louis-Dreyfus – Christine on “The New Adventures of Old Christine”
Toni Collette – Tara Gregson on “The United States of Tara”
Christina Applegate – Samantha Newly on “Samantha Who?”
Tina Fey – Liz Lemon on “30 Rock”
My Pick: Tina Fey – Liz Lemon on “30 Rock”
My thoughts: I’m not just saying this so that I can go “Hey! I had one right!” Given the other people nominated it just seems like the obvious choice. Toni Collette is fantastic as Tara, but I don’t really see that show as a comedy, it’s more of a dramedy. If anyone else has a chance I think it would Christina Applegate.
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series
Hugh Laurie – Dr. Gregory House on “House”
Michael C. Hall – Dexter Morgan on “Dexter”
Simon Baker – Patrick Jane on “The Mentalist”
Gabriel Byrne – Paul on “In Treatment”
Bryan Cranston – Walter White on “Breaking Bad”
Jon Hamm – Don Draper on “Mad Men”
My Pick: Hugh Laurie – Dr. Gregory House on “House”
My thoughts: Sweet Lord! Just give it to Hugh Laurie already! This season of House was IN-FREAKING-CREDIBLE! You had House loosing his mind, the biggest Huddy-tease of all time, please please let him get it this year.
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series
Mariska Hargitay – Olivia Benson on “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit”
Kyra Sedgwick – Brenda Leigh Johnson on “The Closer”
Holly Hunter – Grace Hanadarko on “Saving Grace”
Sally Field – Nora Walker on “Brothers & Sisters”
Elisabeth Moss – Peggy Olson on “Mad Men”
Glenn Close – Patty Hewes on “Damages”
My Pick: Mariska Hargitay – Olivia Benson on “L&O: SVU”
My thoughts: I hope Holly Hunter wins just so I can hear her give a speech. I’m still quoting Broadcast News. Smart money is on Mariska, I can’t really comment on this because I stopped watching SVU on a regular basis. It is entirely possible that Elisabeth Moss could snag it; people do seem to love Mad Men. Other than that I really don’t have an opinion on this aside from “Where is the nom for Lisa Edelstein?”
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Miniseries or a Movie
Kevin Bacon – Lt. Col. Mike Strobl in “Taking Chance”
Brendan Gleeson – Winston Churchill in “Into The Storm”
Kenneth Branagh – Kurt Wallander in “Wallander: One Step Behind”
Kevin Kline – Cyrano de Bergerac in “Cyrano de Bergerac”
Sir Ian McKellen – King Lear in “King Lear”
Kiefer Sutherland – Jack Bauer in “24: Redemption”
My Pick: Kevin Bacon – Lt. Col. Mike Strobl in “Taking Chance”
My thoughts: Taking Chance was an incredible film. My love of Kevin Kline and Ian McKellen aside, I really think that Kevin Bacon is going to take it.
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Miniseries or a Movie
Drew Barrymore – Little Edie in “Grey Gardens”
Jessica Lange – Big Edie in “Grey Gardens”
Sigourney Weaver – Mary Griffith in “Prayers For Bobby”
Shirley MacLaine – Coco Chanel in “Coco Chanel”
Chandra Wilson – Yvonne in “Accidental Friendship”
My Pick: Drew Barrymore – Little Edie in “Grey Gardens”
My thoughts: I loved loved loved Grey Gardens! I’m a fan of the original documentaries and this movie really gave us an inside look at how these two women got to this place. It was beautifully done and Drew was just incredible as Little Edie, that was a big role to take and she did so beautifully.
Outstanding Comedy Series
“Entourage”
“Weeds”
“How I Met Your Mother”
“Flight of the Conchords”
“30 Rock”
“The Office”
“Family Guy”
My Pick: “The Office”
My thoughts: Side stepping the rant of “Big Bang Theory” not being nominated, I really think “The Office” earned the Emmy this year. Season 5 was incredible! You had the Michael Scott Paper Company, a dance off, the company picnic, THE DUEL, how could this possibly NOT go to them?
Outstanding Drama Series
“Big Love”
“Dexter”
“House”
“Damages”
“Mad Men”
“Breaking Bad”
“Lost”
My Pick: “House”
My thoughts: “House” was simply outstanding this year! I can’t even begin to count the “gasp” moments I had this season. The Huddy development, the Kutner story line, House’s hallucinations… it has been a fantastic season and I really hope that they’ll acknowledge that.
Outstanding Made for Television Movie
“Taking Chance”
“Grey Gardens”
“Into the Storm”
“Prayers for Bobby”
“Coco Chanel”
My Pick: “Grey Gardens”
My thoughts: I just can’t get over how much I loved this movie. Again, I’m a big fan of the documentary and this movie just brought these two women to a level of understanding for the audience. Beautifully made movie, fantastic performances, and just glorious in every way.
Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series
Kevin Dillon – Johnny Drama on “Entourage”
Jon Cryer – Alan Harper on “Two and a Half Men”
Rainn Wilson – Dwight Schrute on “The Office”
Neil Patrick Harris – Barney Stinson on “How I Met Your Mother”
Tracy Morgan – Tracy Jordan on “30 Rock”
Jack McBrayer – Kenneth Parcell on “30 Rock”
My Pick: Either: Jon Cryer – Alan Harper on “Two and a Half Men”
Or
Rainn Wilson – Dwight Schrute on “The Office”
My thoughts: Ever since they’ve started nominated Jon Cryer for this award I have been pulling for him. He plays a great characters and deserves some recognition for it. That being said. Dwight Shcrute is possibly one of my all time favorite TV show characters of all time. I’d be happy if either of these guys took the Emmy home.
Dwight
Alan
Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series
William Shatner – Denny Crane on “Boston Legal”
Michael Emerson – Ben Linus on “Lost”
William Hurt – Daniel Purcell on “Damages”
Christian Clemenson – Jerry Espenson on “Boston Legal”
Aaron Paul – Jesse Pinkman on “Breaking Bad”
John Slattery – Roger Sterling on “Mad Men”
My Pick: William Shatner – Denny Crane on “Boston Legal”
My thoughts: This was a great role for Shatner and of all the nominees, it really should go to him.
Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series
Kristin Chenoweth – Olive Snook on “Pushing Daisies”
Elizabeth Perkins – Celia Hodes on “Weeds”
Vanessa Williams – Wilhelmina Slater on “Ugly Betty”
Jane Krakowski – Jenna Maroney on “30 Rock”
Amy Poehler – Various Characters on “Saturday Night Live”
Kristen Wiig – Various Characters on “Saturday Night Live”
My Pick: Jane Krakowski – Jenna Maroney on “30 Rock”
My thoughts: I’ve been a fan of Jane since the Ally McBeal days, so I’m pleased to see her nominated. However I’m not hell bent on her winning because Amy Poehler and Kristen Wiig both had great seasons on SNL. This one is up in the air.
Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series
Sandra Oh – Dr. Cristina Yang on “Grey’s Anatomy”
Rose Byrne – Ellen Parsons on “Damages”
Chandra Wilson – Dr. Miranda Bailey on “Grey’s Anatomy”
Dianne Wiest – Gina on “In Treatment”
Hope Daive – Mia on “In Treatment”
Cherry Jones – President Allison Taylor on “24”
My thoughts: I don’t watch any of these shows, so I really have no opinion on this category.
Outstanding Variety, Music or Comedy Series
The Daily Show with Jon Stewart
Real Time with Bill Maher
The Colbert Report
Late Show with David Letterman
Saturday Night Live
My Pick: Saturday Night Live
My thoughts: This is the first year without a Late Night with Conan O’Brien nomination so I’m free to support SNL. I think with this past year with the elections and what not that SNL will probably take it. If not them, then hopefully either Jon Stewart or Colbert.
Outstanding Writing for a Variety, Music or Comedy Series
The Daily Show with Jon Stewart
The Colbert Report
Late Show with David Letterman
Saturday Night Live
Late Night with Conan O’Brien
My Pick: Guess. Late Night with Conan O’Brien
My thoughts: I love Late Night with COB. I really think that this would be a great book end for that show ending and maybe help with the development of Conan’s Tonight Show. They were consistently funny and always entertaining, So that’s where I am on this one.
I think that’s about it for the major stuff. I would’ve done the Outstanding Writing for Comedy and Drama series’. However, the Comedy nominees were all for “30 Rock” and one for “Flight of the Conchords.” While the Drama nominees were all for “Mad Men” and one for “Lost.” Either way I think we all know which shows are winning in those categories. I really think that there should’ve been some other shows in there. “House” had an incredible season as did “The Office” and “Big Bang Theory.”
Two shows that are missing from these awards that I think should have nominations across the board. First: “Burn Notice” this is an incredible, original show. The cast is made up of talented people and the stories are engaging. Where are the noms?
Second: Law & Order Criminal Intent. In my opinion the best of the three Law & Order shows. Vincent D’Onofrio gives a consistently incredible performance every episode and the rest of the cast is equally talented.
Those are just my thoughts, remember to tune in on Sunday.
So I found this Delicious speculation. Apparently it's rumored that Bruce Campbell might be the villain in the next Spider-Man movie. Can I just say that this could be the thing to turn this horrific series around. They started out strong then got to a point of "WTF?"
Were Bruce Campbell to take a major role in the 4th Spider-Man... sorry got side tracked thinking about that. My mind would be blown.
However, there is reason to doubt because in the last three movies BC has had small cameos all of which he describes as being "major roles." There is validity in his explanations, but I'd hate to get all excited just to find out that he was going to be a taxi driver or some other random task performer.
Please please please let this rumor be true. I would enjoy him as a villain as would a lot of other fangirls out there... and guys would like that too... probably in a different way.
First: Got the Comic-Con tickets this morning! Yay! So much excitement, going with my sister this time. Should be interesting, sis isn't super fluent in geek.
What exactly does this: Where does that leave Vincent D’Onofrio and Kathryn Erbe? The CI vets are in talks to return in some capacity mean? I can pretty much guarantee that if VDO isn't back on they loose me as a viewer. That thought seriously makes my stomach fall a little. What is CI without Goren and Eames?
Third: Big Bang Theory Season 2 on DVD, a review will be up later on.
Also don't forget that the season finale of America's Got Talent is on tonight. I'm hoping for Grandma Lee to win... I think.
I totally forgot that the VMAs were on tonight, not that I would've watched them. But I've been waiting for Kourtney & Khloe Take Miami to start, so I threw it on.
A number of things:
1. What kind of absolute d-bag does something like that! So Taylor Swift wins for Best Female Video. She has just begun her acceptance speech and they were doing some audience shots of the other nominees. They go back to the stage and Kayne West is there, he's taken the microphone out of Taylor's hand and starts on about how Beyonce's video was the best. He then gives her the mic back and walks off the stage. Leaving a shocked Taylor there, unsure what to say as anyone would be. Who seriously does that? To a 19 year old girl who just won her first VMA? It just blows my freaking mind. I don't care who you think should've won, you don't do that to another person.
His half-ass apology is online already and attempts to defend his outburst by saying that he's a "fan of real pop culture." What does that mean? Does country not count? I'm pretty sure that it's just as much a part of pop culture as rap, hip-hop, pop, metal, any musical variation that emerges from this culture. Just because someone doesn't appreciate it, doesn't mean it's not apart of our culture.
2. I have never been a big fan of Beyonce. I like Jennifer Hudson much more. But she was very classy tonight. After winning an award later on in the show she brought Taylor out on stage and let her finish her speech. Such a decent thing to do and I really respect her for that.
3. What hell is Lady GaGa wearing? First it was some kind of bird's nest around her face, then she performed and... hung herself, I think? Then they came back and she was wearing this thing that made her look like the Red Queen in chess.
I think I might watch the full replay later. I had been doing homework for school and got online afterwards. There was this tidal wave of things about Kayne.
I'm not all that familiar with a lot of the people up for awards, so there isn't much else to weigh in on.
There will be some more updates soon with more movie reviews. Also premier week is coming up on the networks and THE EMMYS! Should be worlds better then last year.
So I'm channel surfing. Just finished watching Design Star on HGTV. Discovered that Retro TV channel shows Off Beat Cinema! Actors playing beatniks host old movies. It's a Buffalo based program that used to air in Erie at 2 in the morning. For the longest time I wanted to be The Mysterious Zelda. It's just a fun program that I've missed since moving.
Hmm... so what other viewings lately... Saw All About Steve today, it was pretty good. On one hand I could see what critics didn't like about it. But as a "quirky" girl who doesn't date much... at all... and has felt that pressure to be "normal," I really loved it.
As of yesterday I have completed my collection of Friends DVDs. All 10 seasons baby!
Other than that it's been a pretty slow weekend. I have The Graduate and Joy Luck Club to watch for my classes on Wednesday. But I'm going to use my day off tomorrow for that. And now, back to Off Beat Cinema.
Netflix arrived today, you know how excited I get when that happens!
So this is what came:
Love in the Time of Money (2002) an Indie/romantic comedy. Normally these movies tend to be identical and depressing but I actually enjoyed this one... although it still had hints of being depressing. And it is rated R for a reason, there are some areas that might be uncomfortable for some people. I don't want to give anything away but there are some dealings with suicide in it.
So, the amazing cast. No one can feel depressed with this cast:
Steve Buscemi
Rosario Dawson
Michael Imperioli (*melts*)
Jill Hennessy
Adrian Grenier
And many more. The movie is woven together with little segments about different characters. They each get about 15-20 minutes each and then they meet someone and we follow that person to the next portion. It moved quickly and had some dark comedy. Now I know everyone thinks that Adrian Grenier is all dreamy and what have you. But I beg to differ. Between Michael Imperioli and Steve Buscemi there was just no screen left for Adrian. Imperioli tends to get type-casted as the Italian badass, but this movie proved that he is capable of so much more. And I'm just happy any time Steve Buscemi gets a girl in a movie. I'm always like "Yay! Good for you!"
Now the other movie that arrived that I watched tonight was Miami Rhapsody (1995). This is one of those movies that I think I've seen all of, but aren't quite sure of it. What a great flick! Again a fantastic cast:
Sarah Jessica Parker
Gil Bellows (Billy from Ally McBeal anyone?)
Antonio Banderas
Mia Farrow
Kevin Pollak
Jeremy Piven
A small part for Ben Stein
And some very uncomfortable moments from Kelly Bishop (Aka Emily from Gilmore Girls) Some people I just see as a "grown-up" no matter what age I am. And when they get freaky or say dirty things, I find it moderately unsettling.
So SJP's character Gwen is at a new Gynocologist and starts to tell this story about how she was proposed to. It takes off from there, looking at the different marriages and relationships around Gwen and how they affect her. It really is a great movie, especially if you're looking for something to just kind of veg out and watch.
I also got Las Vegas, An Unconventional History: American Experience... because that's just how I am. I love documentaries about cities, periods in time, Hollywood pre-Hays or post-Hays Production Code, the rating system for movies, the use of the F-word, past presidents, etc. I'm all kinds of Doc-geek.
And on that note, Conan is starting and my geeking must be focused on that lanky, red-headed delight.
Well didn't post anything yesterday because I didn't really have anything to write about. Also had some reading and note taking to do for school. Didn't really watch anything worth reporting on yesterday. Basically went back and forth between news shows and HGTV until it was time for Conan to start.
Tonight I had auditions for the sketch comedy group down on campus so I was there until about 8 p.m. Didn't get home until 9, ate a BLT minus the T plus Italian dressing (I'm a weird eater) like it was going out of style. I had been at auditions since 4.30 so I was crazy hungry when I finally got home. Did my sign language homework which was delightful because the DVD I have to use for it looks like it's from the 80s. Seriously the people doing the signing are crazy 80s fashion.
Caught the end of Law and Order SVU, which I stopped watching last year because it just got to a point where I couldn't anymore. And now I'm just kicking it with Conan. I love that red headed funny man! Headed for bed after this, if I can't sleep I've got Mah Jong on the iPhone baby!
The CBS sitcom that has been rocking my world as of late is The Big Bang Theory. A great show for fangirls, fanboys, and everybody else (there are other types of people?) Not only is it hysterical in a general way but there are also in-jokes for those of a geeky persuasion.
Okay so I'm breaking down the reasons I love this show:
1. Johnny Galecki as Leonard. I've been a fan since I was growing up watching him on Roseanne and it's fun to see him in a different role.
2. This is one of the more accurate portrayal of geeks. They have a whole variety the socially inept (Sheldon), capable of interaction without being creepy (Leonard), geek who thinks he's a ladies man but actually comes off as creepy (Howard) and sweetheart who can't talk when a pretty girl is around (Koothrappali). Then there is also the pretty girl from next door, Penny. She doesn't really get the guys and their ways but learns to embrace them through time.
3. They have those hypothetical conversations we're all guilty of. "If you were a robot and didn't know, would you want me to tell you?" or "How would the Civil War be different if Abraham Lincoln had been a robot from the future."
4. This is reason enough:
5. This also helps:
If you haven't watched this show yet, DO SO! Immediately!
It was kind of incredible, a blatant rip off of Die Hard, but incredible never the less.
The Trailer:
Take a look, let me know if anything seems familiar. The movie was a little hard to focus on because I was busy noticing all the ripping off. It wasn't just big things like van Damme tying that thing around his waist and jumping off the roof, but there were little things too in the story line. Kind of like Die Hard on ice.
Started to watch Lethal Weapon after that. I don't know why but I keep starting to watch it and then stopping half way through for some reason or another.
Fell asleep watching HGTV, there's something oddly enjoyable about home shows. Also it keeps me from the strange dreams I get if I fall asleep with the news on.
Woke up briefly this morning and tried to watch CBS Sunday Morning but fell asleep again, which is not an uncommon occurrence. In fact, I go through that routine almost every Sunday.
Been working on reading for school most of the day. A lot of pages for a little point. This one author has an entire theory of how Casablanca is a metaphor for America and the hesitance to enter World War II. It actually made quite a bit of sense to me. But I get annoyed with these classes sometimes, I don't know why we can't ever let a movie just be entertaining. Why does everything have to have this secret meaning? Sometimes it is interesting, I love the whole back/in story with Citizen Kane, with why the sled was called Rosebud and how Hearst made sure that the movie didn't win any Oscars. At the same time why can't we just take things for what they are and not try to shove them into these big metaphorical realms.
Watched a bit of the Bond marathon on USA, but didn't stay with it too long. They weren't showing any of my favorites until later. Golden Eye was on. This movie has special meaning for me because it was my first in theatre Bond and it was also the first new Bond of my generation. I've loved James Bond movies since I was about 7. My grandpa had most of them on VHS and on Sundays my siblings and I would watch them. This set off my spy phase which meant me running around in all black, with my "spy kit" and calling myself Jane Bond, 006, James' sister.
After that I just threw the news on while I finished up some reading for school and waited for Khole and Kourtney Take Miami. I cannot explain my fascination with this show, all I can say for sure is that it is there and I like watching it. Threw on some Law and Order CI after that, just in time for a little D'Onofrio.
Not sure what I'll put on now, probably just something random that I can fall asleep to. We'll see what tomorrow brings me.
I love being a film student. A big part of our curriculum is watching movies. Can't do better than that!
So today I watched Memento. A movie that I had heard about but never had a real desire to see. But for my script analysis class I had to. It actually wasn't that bad, a bit strange but interesting in its ways. The main character Leonard has a short term memory problem and can't remember anything past his wife's murder. But things aren't as they seem and the only thing he has to go on are notes, tattoos on his body and Polaroids. Worth seeing:
The other movie I watched for today was Casablanca. Which was of course incredible, it's Casablanca! A nice reminder of what the film industry was once capable of. I had seen bits and pieces over the years but never actually sat down and watched the whole thing. Until today that is. A great film, recommended for one and all:
Also watched Hocus Pocus! A favorite from childhood. Found it for $9 at Wal-Mart and just couldn't resist. Really just put me in the mood for Halloween.
Of course Hocus Pocus put me in the mood for Bette Midler so I put on First Wives Club. However, this is just putting me in the mood for a Goldie Hawn movie so I foresee Banger Sisters in the near future or Foul Play (Depending on my mood). Of course I still have Sudden Death to watch from Netflix. It's an action movie with Jean Claude van Damme that takes place at a Penguins game in the 90s. The trailer is basically a Die Hard rip off. Similar shots, same song. Still excited to watch it because of my love of hockey and action movies.
That's all for this moment in time.
On the off chance that someone reads this, enjoy the rest of the weekend.
Slow day. Drove down to campus to go see the sketch comedy show that I want to try out for. Got there early, had some lunch and no one ever showed up to do the show. My friend and I waited for about half an hour, nobody even showed up to say that it was cancelled. So I drove 40 minutes to campus, on a day when I don't usually have to, had lunch and then turned around to come back.
On the plus side, swung by Target on my way back and picked up House season 5.
A fantastic season for many different reasons:
1) It's House, how fantastic is that!
2) Some of the best episodes and guest stars (Meat Loaf!)
3) My most favorite: The year of House and Cuddy! Vindication for "those crazy Huddy fans"
4) The Kutner thing, which was an episode I had missed and was stunned by.
Such a great season and I'm hoping for some gold at the Emmys this year.
And that is that for this moment in time.
Enjoy some geekin' during the weekend... that did not work like I hoped it would.
It has been almost two years since I've posted anything here. Stumbling across this link and discover that I remember the password! This prompted me to start up again. I figured that I would use this to write about movies, TV shows, other geeky stuff on a regular basis (Hopefully).
So Netflix has been my boyfriend lately. Nice and reliable, I always get an email if something's going to be delayed, really quite delightful.
Yesterday I received The Last Days of Disco (which was just released this past Tuesday) and season 3 of a Canadian show called Robson Arms.
The Last Days of Disco was enjoyable enough. Any movie that has a soundtrack that features disco music makes me happy, so right of the bat there was that. The cast was great too. The main characters are Alice (Chloe Sevigny, pre-Big Love) and Charlotte (Kate Beckinsale). Alice is still developing her personality and starts off as a very "kindergarten teacher" type girl. But she slowly comes out of her shell (sex with Robert Sean Leonard gets that ball rolling). Charlotte is a self indulgent bitch that you want to hit at various points through out the film.
Fans of Gilmore Girls will be amused to see Chris Eigeman (aka Jason) as Des, one of the club owners who is on a downward spiral. We're first introduced to his character as he is going through different women, breaking up with them by convincing them that he's gay. He takes an interest in Alice, but has a personality similar to Charlotte's. This adds to irritation.
There's the minor part of Rex, filled by Mark McKinney. Sadly he's only there for a few fleeting minutes.
Overall the plot is a bit fuzzy and there's a lot of random jumping around. But it's fun to watch the interaction between these different characters. And it's a different portrayal of the 1970s, which was surprising considering that it was made in 1998. While it's not a must see, it is worth seeing.
Now Robson Arms, a great Canadian TV show about an apartment building in Vancouver and the intersecting lives of the people who reside there. I enjoyed the first season and had originally gotten it because Mark McKinney (Kids in the Hall) and Megan Follows (Anne of Green Gables) both had parts in it. As well as William B. Davis AKA The Cigarette Smoking Man from X-Files.
I haven't seen Season 2 but I was trolling Netflix the other day while I was in a Dave Foley mood and saw that he was in season 3 of Robson Arms.
In this season the building has new owners from America, played by Dave Foley (as Chuck) and Allison Hossack (as his wife Trixie). There is of course the usual stereotype of the Americans, but there's something about Dave Foley's way that keeps me from being annoyed.
If you enjoy dramedies this show is worth checking out.
While on the topic of Dave Foley and Mark McKinney, The Kids in the Hall have started to film Death Comes to Town!!
