Medicine for Melancholy

I read this review of the new film Medicine for Melancholy in the Times today and even though I hadn't heard of it before, I'm now going to try and check it out (playing at the IFC theater here in NYC). http://movies.nytimes.com/2009/01/30/movies/30mela.html?8dpc I make particular note of the fact that it stars Wyatt Cenac since my friend and regular reader Zoe is a big fan of his. The story centers around a twenty-something African-American boy and girl who meet and spend a day in San Francisco. Check out the trailer and see what you think:

Lost: Jughead (but not Archie)

I know I've said but I will say it again - I LOVE this show! The attention to every little detail is just so flawless and the way it all works back in on itself is so incredible and so much fun!

To sum up, the flash from the end of the last episode carried the remaining survivors/scientists into the 1950s where they encountered an earlier tribe of Others, led by Richard Alpert (still ageless as ever). It turns out that Charles Widmore is a very outspoke, dedicated, militant other which fits in perfectly with his story - clearly, he must have come to odds with the group at some point and/or got banished from the island in some way and spent significant time and energy trying to find his way back. It also turns out that Alpert's visits to Locke as a baby and young child were precipitated by adult time-travel Locke who held Alpert's compass - and is why Alpert was disappointed that child Locke did not choose the compass over the knife (although I would argue that Locke's signature island tool is really his knife).

It is also likely that a hydrogen bomb is buried on the island at the time of the Oceanic crash ALA Faraday's instructions in the 1950s to do just that (EW points out that there was a steel and concrete sealed off bunker in one of the hatches which is where they speculate the bomb may be). Turns out that before the Dharma Initiative arrived (in the 1960s/70s, right?), the U.S. military tried to conduct bomb tests on the island but ran into resistance from the not so merry band of others. The others assume that our heroes are with the U.S. military although one of them correctly points out that it is unlikely in the 1950s to have a Brit and someone of Asian descent in cahoots with the U.S.

In addition, it seems that Charlotte definitely has time travel disease, something with which Faraday is very familiar. Although it seems to me that Faraday has not yet figured out how to cure time disease (given that his last girlfriend is a vegetable), so his promises to her that he will save her and it will all be OK sound a little hollow.

At the end of the episode, time changed again so it is unclear where our band is now but Locke, Juliet, Sawyer, Miles, Faraday and Charlotte are all together in the field. We are led to understand that many of the other anonymous survivors on the beach perished in the fire arrow attack but is anyone else deathly worried over where Rose and Bernard have got to? Please, please someone find them soon!

My favorite parts of the episode though had to do with Desmond - a character I've come to like more and more. I love his relationship with Penny (very touching), I love his hip Euro scarf and sunglass look and I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the name he gave his son (in what is definitely the first tearjerker moment of the season). Desmond's highlights from the episode are here:



So true to his newly found memory, he has gone in search of Faraday's mother at Oxford and I rightly assumed last week that this would be problematic since Mrs. Hawking is in L.A. (yay I think I'm finally getting this!) Although his father in law Widmore has tried to call him off, and although he volunteered to give up on his mission for Penny, she talked him into a family trip to L.A. to try and find her. I am not quite sure what to think of Ms. Hawking if she is working with Ben but Widmore is up on her whereabouts (and funded her son) but I am sure we will have our answer soon.

I was actually a little relieved that the Oceanic 6 did not make an appearance in this episode as it gave us some time to wrap our heads around the whole time travel thing but since next week's episode seems to focus on Kate and the lawyers who want to prove she's not Aaron's mother, I'm sure we will soon be back to the problems confronting them (namely, Hurley's in jail, Sayid no longer trusts Ben, Sun may be working with Widmore, Kate is still distrustful of Jack and Ben and Ben seems to somehow be playing Jack - oy).

Time Out for Brangelina Commentary

So Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie created quite the scene yesterday at Tokyo Narita airport when they arrived each with a baby on the chest and a child in each hand. His brothers and sisters did not visibly pay attention to the paparazzi circus and seemed to ignore the cameras but little Knox looks like he was caught offguard. The way they parade their kids around for the world, he better start getting used to it.

Lost: Catch Up for Tonight's Episode Jughead

I generally enjoy the "Lost" ramblings of Jeff Jensen (no relation) over at EW and now he has a video series called "Totally Lost" in which he and his colleague Dan Snierson discuss where the show is and where it might be going. If you need a little help sorting out what happened last week, this is a good place to go:

http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid9259916001/bclid9203117001/bctid9158232001

I'll discuss the episode tomorrow - can't wait!

Scrubs and Sesame Street: A Perfect Combination

I have to say since I also grew up on "the Street," I was very happy to see Sesame Street characters pop up on Scrubs last night. I was particularly jealous that Robert Maschio got to give Grover a "high-four" (AKA a "Grover-five"). The Sesame Street clips from the episode are below:

California Dreamin' (Nesferit)

I went last weekend to see the film California Dreamin', a Romanian film made by Cristian Nemescu who tragically died in a car crash after filming was complete at the age of 26. The film stars Armand Assante (who was present at the screening of the film) as the American captain of a NATO troop who are traveling through Romania by train on their way to bring communications equipment to the NATO lines in Serbia. Razvan Vasilescu plays the corrupt stationmaster of one of the railway stations along the NATO train's journey and he decides to hold up the train on a bureaucractic technicality. While the troop is trapped in the small Romanian town, they get an opportunity to interact with the locals, including the stationmaster's teenage daughter, and learn a little bit about life in Romania after the fall of communism. The film paints a rich picture of the town and its people (who are under the stationmaster's thumb) and also provides and interesting commentary on life in Romania as well as the consequences of U.S. influence and interference in such a place. There are many sequences in the film that are quite funny but there is plenty of emotion as well. You are also left feeling that it is such a shame Nemescu's voice was silenced so soon.

The film is playing right now at the IFC Center in New York - definitely check it out if you can. Here is the trailer to whet your appetite.


California Dreamin (Nesfarsit) - Trailer

The Big Bang Theory Backs Me Up

So those of you who know me well know that I do not drive (I have a license but haven't driven since I got it many years ago). But although some of you may make fun, did you ever think that maybe those of us who do not drive are just too evolved for driving? Back me up Sheldon:

Once: When Life Gets in the Way of Fantasy

I am a huge fan of the film Once which won an academy award last year for best song. One of the most beautiful things about the film was its backstory, namely, that its stars Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova who were friends, became a couple during filming. I saw them perform last May at Radio City and they were just so adorable together (which was also clear to anyone who saw them at the Oscars). That rapport and sense of genuine affection certainly helped contribute to the beauty of the film and its music.

So I was really sad to read this story today about their break-up: http://news.yahoo.com/s/eonline/20090127/en_top_eo/80942. Of course life is sometimes like that but next time I listen to the music or see the film, I don't think I will see it in quite the same way. Oh well - it was touching while it lasted!

Yankees Seal Up Pitching Staff

Not really a surprise but the Yankees and Andy Pettitte have agreed to a one year contract. http://newyork.yankees.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090126&content_id=3772722&vkey=news_nyy&fext=.jsp&c_id=nyy I personally am looking forward to seeing Pettitte back although I would be just as happy to see a little less of him than last year - he pitched nearly all of the eight game I attended last season - a little variety is always nice!

Now if only the Yankees would sort out their partial season plans already - I think it's about time to let me know which games and what seats I am being assigned!

The SAG Awards and What They Mean for the Oscars

It now seems clear that Slumdog Millionaire is the favorite to win big at the Oscars next month - the cast was so excited and adorable accepting the SAG award for best ensemble cast last night that it is hard not to be rooting for them (Dev Patel was so cute in his gray tuxedo!)

It is also clear that there is no stopping a Heath Ledger win for supporting actor - there is too much emotion and critical acclaim on his side. The only mystery there will be who collects the award on his behalf. Whoever it is, I suggest you have tissues handy.

The other three acting awards though are still a bit of a jumble. Sean Penn won for his performance in Milk last night so it seems that he may still be able to eke past Mickey Rourke in the final race. Kate Winslet won again for The Reader but since it has been in the supporting category, it allowed Meryl Streep to win in the lead category. I still think that on Oscar night, Kate Winslet will still manage to win for The Reader in the lead category but it will be a harder fight - it is much easier to dominate the supporting category with so prominent a role. There is also no clear signs as to which of the remaining supporting actresses will take it but I think Viola Davis had too little screen time, Amy Adams can't compete against her co-star, Taraji P. Henson also had not enough screen time or acclaim, Marisa Tomei didn't have enough to do in the Wrestler (except strip) so I have to believe that Penelope Cruz, who completely stole Vicki Cristina Barcelona will win in the end. Also, Tomei already has an Oscar, the other three are pretty new and Cruz is due after this performance and her performance in Volver. We'll see on February 22nd!

SAG also honors TV and I have to say I am completely in favor of 30 Rock winning everything it can get its hands on. I also can get behind Mad Men for best drama and I don't watch House but I do like Hugh Laurie. But Sally Field for Brothers and Sisters? Oy. I know she's Sally Field but surely there is a more deserving actress on a more deserving show! Oh well, can't win them all.

Mary-Louise Parker Gets Stung By the Times

I bet she now wishes she had skipped out to L.A. for the SAG Awards instead. The Roundabout production of Hedda Gabler starring Mary-Louise Parker got one of the worst reviews from Ben Brantley I have seen in today's Times: http://theater2.nytimes.com/2009/01/26/theater/reviews/26bran.html?ref=arts. I'm glad I didn't bother to get tickets!

Hometown Boy Makes Good

I always enjoy a boy does good story, particularly when it involves someone from my hometown, East Meadow, L.I. - a recent EMHS graduate, Tim Ahmed, has won an N.B.A. jersey design contest, story from the Times: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/26/nyregion/26baruch.html?ref=nyregion

Kelly Clarkson's "My Life Would Suck Without You"

I woke up this morning with this song playing on the radio and I have to say I found myself tapping my foot in time while I struggled to get out of bed. The tune certainly is catchy and I think I may have to add it to my iPod - see what you think:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h09_1qdkFIA

On Those Brits

An adorable story from today's Times about the Brits and their naughty geographic names: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/23/world/europe/23crapstone.html

Lost: I'm Not as Lost as I Was

So I watched both episodes of Lost last night and I think I understand what's happening in a show logic kind of way. Ben is manipulating to get the Oceanic 6 + the body of "Jeremy Bentham"/Locke back to the island because... unclear. But he is working with the mysterious British woman who previously advised Desmond - she appears to have some scientific way to work out when the island will appear and she may be Faraday's mother. Jack is ready to believe Ben and get back to the island because he feels guilty about what happened to those who were left behind (as well he should). Sayid doesn't trust Ben despite the fact that he's been working for Ben. Sun also is seeking to bring down Ben with the help of Widmore even though Ben didn't have anything to do with Jin's death and she may or may not be trying to manipulate Kate. Kate is on the run again after a mysterious someone (Widmore?) is trying to prove she is not Aaron's mother because they want Aaron (although presumably they could prove he's Jack's nephew?) Poor Hurley is caught up in all this mess wracked with guilt and confused about what to do (although he did have the ghost of Ana-Lucia to help him) so he gives himself over to the police for murders Sayid committed to get away from Ben and the confusion.

Meanwhile, the island is skipping around in time for Locke, shirtless Sawyer (pity he managed to find a shirt), Bernard and Rose, Neil/Frogurt, other Oceanic survivor extras, Juliet, Miles, Faraday and Charlotte. It is not catching the ageless Richard Alpert somehow so he had to give Locke the compass that Locke did not choose when he was a child to identify himself to Alpert when the island flashes to the past. It is skipping around in time because the Oceanic 6 left and/or Ben turned the frozen wheel but it will stop if the Oceanic 6 come back which will happen if Locke dies. Although the past can not be changed, time travel scientist Faraday knows how to manipulate the system and plants a memory for Desmond to remember in the future so he will track down his mom at Oxford (although if it's the woman helping Ben she's in L.A.) Faraday also knows why Charlotte doesn't feel well (is it the same thing that affects you if you fly on the wrong heading?) and he is savvy enough to appear in the 1970s when Dr. Chang/Candle/other names is discovering/building the Orchid station. Also, Dr. Chang/Candle/other names had a wife and son who could possibly be Miles.

The people skipping around in time on the island are in danger because at any given time, whoever else is on the island will not recognize them and will want to harm them - ala Ethan pointing a gun at Locke and mysterious British soldiers sending flaming arrows at the castaways on the beach.

Right?

Thoughts: I am excited to learn more about the time travel issues although I hope there are some clear rules to it. I feel so bad for Hurley (seeing him in that Shih-Tzu t-shirt made me want to cry) and while I am certain he will be rescued from the police, I just hope he isn't manipulated too much by Ben or Sun or anyone else. I am dying to know what Ben is really up to and why it's so imperative everyone return to the island. Will Locke be resurrected if they return? Why are there so many ghosts and only Hurley can see them? Oy - stay tuned.

Oscar Nominations Gripe Addendum

In all the hustle and bustle I failed to mention that there are only three best song nominees this year - two for songs from Slumdog Millionaire and one for Peter Gabriel for the song from Wall-E. Um, doesn't the academy know Bruce Springsteen is the boss? His song The Wrestler was so beautiful and I am very sad that it will not make it to the Academy stage. So let's give it a little stage time right here - enjoy:

The Oscar Nominations: Go Slumdog Millionaire!

First things first, I soundly approve of all nominations Slumdog Millionaire (my favorite film of the year) and hope that it wins them all - which I strongly suspect it may. I am particularly looking forward to the performances of songs from the film during the ceremony!

Next thing to strike me is that Hollywood loves Holocaust films and since Tom Cruise didn't exactly make Valkyrie the stuff of Oscar dreams, the attention has come raining down on The Reader. Now I have not seen the film because from what I read, it sounded like it did not give participants in the horrors of the Holocaust enough personal responsibility. However, since the Academy has decided that The Reader is one of the five best films of the year, features one of the best performances by an actress (Kate Winslet who could very well win), had one of the best directors (Stephen Daldry) and one of the best adapted screenplays (from David Hare), I am going to make an effort to check it out this weekend. Therefore, I will reserve judgment on whether these nominations were deserved until I see the film for myself.

I was going to see Revolutionary Road this weekend but that film has had the door soundly slammed in its face so I have reordered my priorities (the film only scrounged up a nomination for best supporting actor for Michael Shannon who is supposed to be a scene stealer). I was surprised that Leonardo DiCaprio did not get his nomination simply because he is a popular actor, doing solid work but I guess the Academy just liked Brad Pitt better (does anyone know how much of that CGI bit was his work?). It seems to me that DiCaprio often gets overlooked by the Academy which seems strange but hopefully he will get his soon (although I would be surprised if the forthcoming Scorcese adaptation of Dennis Lehane's Shutter Island would be the film to do it based on my knowledge of the Lehane book).

But let's get to the really good news: Martin McDonough was nominated for the screenplay for In Bruges!! I would have loved to see Colin Farrell get a nomination as well but I will take what I am given. Also, I love that Mike Leigh got a nomination for the Happy Go Lucky screenplay although again, I would have loved a Sally Hawkins nomination as well. And of course I love, love, love that Robert Downey Jr. was nominated for Tropic Thunder - even though Heath Ledger will likely win that category, Downey had an amazing year that deserves attention.

Even though it will probably be an unpopular position, I also thoroughly approve of shutting out The Dark Knight from the major categories (other than Ledger of course which is the real recognition the film deserved). Yes I hated the film but I also believe that there are many more deserving films out there that were better written, more beautiful to look at (did anyone else get nauseous from the choppiness?) and were just generally more interesting. Even if you thought the Dark Knight was an entertaining film, it just simply isn't an example of great filmmaking.

Which brings me to the bad news: Gran Torino was much more deserving of film, screenplay, directing, acting honors than Frost/Nixon or The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (again, I reserve judgment on The Reader). I can't believe Gran Torino was so shut out - it was definitely one of my favorite movies of the year (with Slumdog and In Bruges). Of course, Clint Eastwood is not lacking in awards and attention but I really would have liked to seen some nominations for the film if for no other reason than it would get more people to go and see it. Please do go see it.

One complaint regarding Benjamin Button in particular - the Academy somehow failed to see that while Brad Pitt turned in a fairly uninteresting performance, Cate Blanchett was simply breathtaking. Again, Blanchett has seen plenty of Academy love over the years but I can not believe that she could not get a nomination in the supporting category over her co-star Taraji P. Henson or in the lead category over Angelina Jolie (again, did not see the film but could not take her overacting in the preview). She was hands down my favorite part of the movie. The movie was also very beautiful generally and deserves all nominations in that direction but I just wish the acting nominations had been refocused. The film has the most nominations overall which many would say make it a strong contender for best picture but again, I hope and believe that Slumdog will slip in there.

Finally, my early winner picks would be Penelope Cruz for supporting actress for Vicky Cristina Barcelona (she completely stole that movie), Heath Ledger for The Dark Knight (it will be very hard to beat him), Kate Winslet for The Reader (a long overdue win), Mickey Rourke for The Wrestler (I would prefer Sean Penn but I don't think Rourke can be beat), In Bruges for Best Original Screenplay (OK, maybe that's just my fantasy), Waltz With Bashir for best foreign film (I preferred The Class but I think Waltz has it locked), Wall-E for animated film (um, duh) and Slumdog Millionaire for adapted screenplay, director, score and best picture of the year (deep breath fingers crossed) - we'll see on February 22nd!

Oscar Nominations Tomorrow!

Just an alert to watch the Oscar nominations tomorrow morning (8:30am EST). I am thinking Slumdog Millionaire will do well and I'm assuming Kate Winslet will get her nominations. I think it's also fairly clear that Mickey Rourke will get his, Heath Ledger will get one, and Sean Penn and Frank Langella should get theirs. I will cheer if Sally Hawkins gets one for Happy Go Lucky and will die of excitement if In Bruges gets anything. I'm also crossing my fingers that Gran Torino does well because that was one great movie.

A lot of critics are betting that The Dark Knight will make a showing but I'm not convinced it will make any waves beyond Ledger's nomination. There are certainly quite a few strong films this year and I know that The Dark Knight isn't at the top of that list for me.

Tune in and then we can discuss tomorrow!

Working on a Dream Review

This early review doesn't make the new Springsteen CD sound too promising but I am still looking forward to its release on Tuesday: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090121/ap_en_re/music_review_bruce_springsteen

VH1's Confessions of a Teen Idol - Billy is back!

Yes I'm still watching Confessions of a Teen Idol - I'm a true Billy Hufsey fan! I was very happy to see him win the Aussie commercial on this week's episode - he gave it his all, sang those high notes, did a split on the roof of a car and won himself a job (you can watch the whole audition story from this week's episode or just skip ahead to around 9:20ish to see the brief clip of Billy's audition):

VH1 TV Shows | Music Videos | Celebrity Photos | News & Gossip

So yes, Billy is 50 now and he isn't quite the same as he once was but that's OK. I will still always remember him like this (featured with the late, great Gene Anthony Ray). And yes, I know how ridiculous this looks but I just love, love, love it and you can't take that away from me.

"Makin It"
by clarkitoLCA

Lie To Me Starts Tonight on Fox

Lie to Me premieres tonight on Fox after American Idol (which I do not follow and will not be discussing in this blog). I'm not sure if it's going to be good or not but I do like Tim Roth so I'm willing to give it a chance. Anyone else going to watch?

Lost Is Back! Lost Is Back!

I am so excited I can barely contain myself! When the f did that island go? How on earth will they all get back? Will Jack lose the beard? (Yes indeed, see the sneak preview below.) Will Sawyer lose his shirt? (I'm going to say that's a definite yes.) Will someone explain to me just what the heck is going on? (I'm guessing it'll be one step forward and two steps back on that one.) I am the first to admit that this show is one giant head trip and I am never quite sure what is going on but I'm going to guess it has something to do with time travel (duh) which is cool. And whatever happens tonight (in an entire evening of back to back episodes beginning at 8pm on ABC) I am going to eat it up! Only 10 more hours to go...

Favorite Inauguration Festivities Moment

I missed the We Are One concert over the weekend but I just caught up and I have to say seeing Pete Seeger on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial belting out This Land is Your Land brought me to tears. Anyone else with me?

WTF Joaquin Phoenix Edition

In case you hadn't heard, Joaquin Phoenix is quitting acting to become a rapper and his brother-in-law Casey Affleck is making a documentary about the process. Unless this is somehow a joke, I just don't get it. Check out a clip of Phoenix "rapping" in Vegas and the trailer for his upcoming film Two Lovers - um, I think I can assume a unanimous "don't give up your day job", right?

Coraline in 3D

So at the start of the new year, there are not a lot of films to look forward to (unless you're a fan of horror films or Paul Blart Mall Cop, America's #1 movie) but this is one I do have on my list. It is a "Nightmare Before Christmas"-like animated film which will be presented in 3D and it looks like it could be a lot of fun. Meet Coraline:

Hail to President Barack Obama

We will get back to the business of pop culture I promise but today let's all just enjoy the absolute magic of this moment and pray that it signals real changes in this country are just around the corner:

Hustle Returns - Sort Of

So I watched and thoroughly enjoyed three seasons of the BBC series Hustle as it aired in the U.S. on AMC. The show starred Adrian Lester and featured the hilarious Marc Warren as well as Jamie Murray, Robert Glenister and Robert Vaughn as the perfect long con crew operating in London. The cast had chemistry and the shows were interesting and fun (watch them on DVD). Then in Season 4, Adrian Lester disappeared (to sell the Sydney Opera House) and the rest of the crew was left to fend on their own. This was OK because although Lester was great, Warren certainly kept things rolling along.

However, Season 5 just premiered last week in the U.K. and since I am spending a few days in London, I was able to watch it on the BBC site (which blocks out non-UK viewers). Now the story has flipped and we are told that Warren and Murray's characters are in the U.S. so Lester's character has returned to work with Glenister's character and assemble a new crew. While the episode had a similar pace to its predecessors, the show just isn't as funny without Warren so it remains to be seen whether it can hold interest in the long run. I am also not too excited about the new members of the crew - they seem a little wishy washy for my tastes. Episode 2 airs tonight here in London so I will get to take in more information before coming to a final opinion (and waiting out whether the series will even air in the U.S.)

Here is a scene of Warren and Murray - they will be missed:



Marc Warren had a thankless role in last summer's blockbuster Wanted and although it looks like he has some more projects in the U.K., here's hoping we get more of him stateside soon.

Happy Birthday Zoe!

Today is my good friend and loyal reader Zoe's birthday - yay! Zoe works in casting and she happens to have quite a number of films coming out at the same time so in her honor, check out the following two previews for films she has worked on - Notorious (AKA the Biggie biopic) which opens tomorrow, January 16th and Pink Panther 2 whih opens February 6th. Two very different films so hopefully that means something for everyone!





She also worked on Cold Souls with Paul Giamatti which is currently competing at Sundance and Spinning Into Butter with Sarah Jessica Parker (an adaptation of the play) which may be released this spring. As soon as I can get my hands on any video clips for those films I'll certainly share!

Confession Time - I'm Addicted to Amanda Bynes Films

I'm not sure why but every time I catch an Amanda Bynes movie on TV I just can not tear myself away. I have dutifully watched her three biggest starring roles - What A Girl Wants, She's The Man and Sydney White (she's also in Hairspray which of course I have also seen multiple times). In fact, I DVR'd She's The Man and Sydney White so I could be sure I could see them start to finish. I just watched Sydney White this week and it was so silly yet somehow entertaining at the same time.

All three films have the same plot, namely, Bynes finds herself a fish out of water, finds a love interest, finds a female rival, makes blunders, gets herself noticed for her individuality and good looks, makes a grand entrance in a fabulous gown and wins the boy. She's The Man is actually a reworking of Twelfth Night (in theory) and Sydney White is a reworking of Snow White of course (she lives in a house with seven nerdy guys and along with the help of the dashing Tyler Prince they overcome the evil queen Witchburn who rules campus). My favorite though has to be the outlandish What A Girl Wants where she discovers she is descended from British royalty (namely, Colin Firth) and has to make her way in British society. Here is a scene where she makes a blunder by wearing the wrong clothes to the royal fashion show and winding up on stage where she gets herself noticed for her individuality and good looks:



I guess perhaps I just find Bynes sweet - she's just so adorable in each of the films. Or perhaps I just like the comfort food of a predictable, puffy movie. All I know is that the next time she has a film come out in the theater, I'm going to keep my DVR on alert for when it pops up on cable!

Prison Break: All Good Things Must Come to An End

Oh well. I've enjoyed the ride and can't wait to watch it go out with a bang!

From imdb.com:

Prison Break Broken
13 January 2009 5:30 PM, PST

TV drama Prison Break has been axed after four years.

The current season of the show will be its last. The final four episodes will air on in the U.S. in April.

Fox Entertainment president Kevin Reilly tells the Hollywood Reporter, "The show is just played out. Creatively, everybody feels enough stories have been told.

"We want to finish strong and not just gimp out next season. They have a cool ending."

Prison Break first premiered on America's Fox network in 2005.

Bruce is Back!

I was excited by Bruce Springsteen's win for the song The Wrestler which plays over the credits of The Wrestler film and which is a hauntingly beautiful song. However, I just caught this preview of the new Springsteen album (coming on January 27th) and I am very excited to check out more. "My Lucky Day" is certainly a catchy song anyway!

More on Patti

Further to my earlier post about Gypsy, here's another great take from Steve on Broadway on the literal showstopping number and how it may have all been a misunderstanding! http://steveonbroadway.blogspot.com/2009/01/pattis-turn-lettin-loose.html

Oh Alec Baldwin

I missed the red carpet arrivals last night but I did catch this clip on Popwatch of Alec Baldwin doing his obligatory Ryan Secret/E interview. He's hilarious:

I Love the Golden Globes

It's inevitable that in watching an award show, not all individual favorites are going to win. But I have to say that I was pretty pleased with the outcome of most of the categories at the Golden Globes last night. Although I have not yet seen The Reader or Revolutionary Road (it's on the list), I would never, ever complain about honoring the fabulous Kate Winslet in such spectacular fashion. This picture from the New York Times just shows how genuinely happy she was, which is how it should be. Her speeches were a bit long yes but after being shunned for such amazing work all these years I say she more than deserves it. (As an aside, I also appreciate that she snubbed Angelina a little - it's OK to bring her down a peg - go ahead and yell at me Khue!)

Also, as previously stated on this blog, I LOVED In Bruges and was over the moon that Colin Farrell won. He was so funny in the film that I think Best Actor in a Comedy was more than deserved. It should be noted that Brendan Gleeson was also excellent as well in that film but Farrell's was definitely the more comedic performance.

I also love, love, love that Sally Hawkins won for Happy Go Lucky which was another of my favorite films of the year. Her performance in that movie is so funny and sweet and judging from her reaction to winning, she may also be that sweet herself.

I am also perfectly content to give Slumdog Millionaire all that it is nominated for since, also as previously stated, it was my favorite film of 2008. Just seeing how excited Dev Patel was by the whole spectacle made me smile.

And any award ceremony that honors Bruce Springsteen is also all right with me. He too seemed genuinely honored to beat Clint Eastwood at anything which I found adorable. The song was my favorite part of the film The Wrestler by far and I can't wait to hear the forthcoming new Springsteen album!

With respect to the TV awards, I would have let Tina Fey, Alec Baldwin, Tracy Morgan and the entire cast of 30 Rock give every acceptance speech for the night. Morgan's joke about how now that Obama has won, Fey has agreed he can speak for the show from now on was just priceless. Also, I loved Fey's "suck it" shout-outs to her on-line detractors. You will nothing but love for you here Tina I promise!

I also am perfectly happy that Mad Men won - although there were some questionable episodes in the second season, overall I think the show is holding up well and is one of the better dramas on TV. I also love that Anna Paquin won for True Blood since she is one of the best things on that show.

Yes, I am leaving some categories out - I am generally not a follower of the miniseries/TV movie genre, I think some of the other actors on In Treatment are stronger than Gabriel Byrne, I respect the choice of Heath Ledger but I am still not a fan of the film and, as stated above, Mickey Rourke was fine but the Wrestler was not for me. However, that aside, I was surprised to find that last night was an award show I actually agreed with and enjoyed.

As a closing thought, let's just hope that this Winslet/Slumdog/Hawkins/Farrell high continues tomorrow after the Oscar nominations are announced. We'll discuss then.

NPH on SNL

So there were a number of cute NPH bits on SNL on Saturday night including his portrayal of Mark from Rent (I loved the whole Broadway meeting bit although that may have been because I had just come from a closing Broadway musical). However, I think my favorite of the night had to be this SNL Digital Short featuring NPH and an army of blond doctors riffing on the Doogie Howser theme song - stick with it through the closing shot:

Ask John Hodgman

The New York Times is allowing people to submit questions to the Daily Show's expert, author and all around hilarious guy John Hodgman. I'm still trying to think of a good question but if anyone has one here's where to go: http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/01/12/ask-the-daily-show-resident-expert/?hp

Everything's Coming up Patti

I went to see Gypsy on Saturday night in advance of its Sunday close. I had never actually seen a live production of Gypsy before although I was certainly familiar with many of its songs (I will never be able to listen to Together Wherever We Go without thinking of the Carol and Marcia Brady version). As expected, Patti Lupone is a powerhouse and Boyd Gaines and Laura Benanti were also great. However, I didn't quite expect Patti Lupone to turn that power on to the audience.

The announcement made before the show was that no photography or video was allowed and the actors on stage would be able to see you so beware - a bit strange but I didn't really think anything of it. Then in a tense, silent moment between Lupone and Benanti in the second act, a cell phone ran and Lupone shot a look of death into the audience - again, didn't think too much of it. But I didn't realize that tensions were brewing and just after Lupone started Rose's lament, her showstopper/showcloser number, it all came pouring out.

Just a few lines in to the song, Lupone told the orchestra to stop playing and launched into a screaming diatribe against a couple in the orchestra section who she said was taking pictures (I was in the balcony with no view of the orchestra). She accused them of taking three pictures and repeatedly and angrily said "you heard the announcements - who do you think you are ?!?" and demanded that they be thrown out or she wouldn't continue. She even briefly left the stage but a voice came over a microphone and assured her they had been removed. Lupone then gave a brief speech about how there is no common decency or respect any more and thanked everyone else in the audience for being respectful. She then took her place, cued the orchestra and started the number over to much applause. The song is an angry, energetic song ordinarily but the keyed up Lupone packed so much power into it it blew the house away. She received such a long standing ovation when she was done that it seemed like an afterthought to squeeze in the closing dialogue scene. Here is the song from the soundtrack so you can get a sense:



Now I agree that common decency is sometimes lacking in big Broadway musical audiences but I have never seen a performer stop a show and unleash such ferocity on an audience. The audience clearly favored her side of things but I would have been perfectly happy to make it through the show without interruption.

OMG it's NPH on SNL!

My friend Zoe correctly pointed out that I failed to mention one of the most important pieces of TV news this week - NPH (Neil Patrick Harris that is) is hosting SNL (Saturday Night Live) tonight! I'm not usually a big SNL fan but I think even I may have to tune in for this one!

30 Rock as Random and Hilarious as Ever

Although I'm not sure why there has to be a special guest star every week (this week's guest was Salma Hayek and it looks like she could be back for more), generally I think 30 Rock is finally picking up the pace after a sluggish start. Liz's encounters with Peter Dinklage were very funny (she accidentally meets him when she mistakes him for a child and then loses him when she mistakes a child for him) as was Jack's visit to Salma Hayek's relative's quincinera (he brought expensive champagne and flavored chips because he didn't know what kind of party it was). But in particular, it's moments like this that keep me tuning in to the show - the pace and sheer randomness of the moment are hilarious (and no, you are given no explanation for why Tracy Jordan is dressed like that):

"People's" Choice Awards

Now I'm not really a follower of the People's Choice Awards which were shown last night on CBS and I only watched them briefly but in that time an awful lot of CBS stars won. Garry Unmarried is the best new comedy? Um, whatever.

Oh those Conchords!

I love this week's Time Out New York covers featuring the Flight of the Conchords. I personally received the Bret cover on the left and it made me laugh out loud in the hall. Counting down to the new season on January 18th!

Leverage on TNT Starring Academy Winner Timothy Hutton

I've seen TNT promote Leverage with that title so much I'm starting to believe that's the show's actual full name. I've been watching this show since it began in early December and although I admit I am a sucker for a heist show, I think this one's pretty good. The show involves a group of thieves (led by Timothy Hutton, the lone honest man) who pull cons to enact revenge for injustices - the Robin Hood and Merry Men of grifters if you will. Last week's episode involving Serbian orphans was a bit too dark but generally the shows have been zippy and fun. There are quite a few funny running gags - my particular favorites are the tough guy Elliot's flashbacks to things from his past and the computer whiz Alec's interaction with just about anyone else in the gang - see the following examples:





The show is in the middle of the season - Tuesday nights, 10pm on TNT - and the episodes which have aired are already on-line so if you're looking to pick up a fun, new show I would definitely recommend tuning in.

Yay Ivy League Basketball!

An interest of mine from my days at Columbia, I'm always happy to see the Ivy League do well, even if it is my sister's alma mater Harvard: http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/recap?gid=200901070058&prov=ap

Those Funny Facts of Life

Both Scrubs and The Daily Show featured jokes about the TV classic The Facts of Life last night. On Scrubs, J.D. decided to call one tough new female intern Jo which led to another brown-noser blond being labelled Blair and an Indian intern volunteering to be called Tootie (since the intern said he didn't view that as racist). Not really that funny but neither was the Daily Show joke which is featured below.

The Daily Show With Jon StewartM - Th 11p / 10c

Change of Address

Barack Obama Interview
John McCain Interview

Sarah Palin Video
Funny Election Video

I Love Eddie Izzard

What a nice thing to do: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090106/ap_en_mo/people_eddie_izzard

Is It Opening Day Yet?

This picture of Teixeira makes me smile - I'm counting the days until April!

http://bats.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/01/06/a-smiling-teixeira-is-introduced-at-yankee-stadium/?hp

One Last Scrubs Reminder

It is back tonight on ABC with two new episodes. And even though he's not going to be on tonight's episodes, in anticipation, enjoy this photo of my Christmas Eve with The Todd (AKA Robert Maschio).

Watch tonight and we can discuss tomorrow!

iTunes Learns to Share

Apple has announced the demise of the DRM protections in iTunes so feel free to share. http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/07/technology/companies/07apple.html?hp Just beware, that new top 40 hit will now cost you $1.29 although I have a feeling most of what I'm looking for will be in the $0.69 bin!

2 Days in Paris

So I somehow missed this film when it was in the theaters (I know it's shocking but even I have only so much time!) but I did DVR it on Showtime HD and got around to watching it last night (love that DVR).

The movie stars, and was written and directed by, the French actress Julie Delpy whom I like, particularly in the wonderful Richard Linklater films Before Sunrise and Before Sunset (you know the drill, if you haven't seen them, rent them immediately - Before Sunset is a sequel to Before Sunrise which was co-written by Hawke and Delpy). Julie Delpy plays a Parisian who now lives in New York but who has stopped off on the way home from Venice to visit Paris for two days with her American boyfriend played by Adam Goldberg. Watching Julie Delpy wander around Paris talking to an American boyfriend certainly brought Before Sunset to mind (since that film features Julie Delpy wandering around Paris talking to Ethan Hawke) but 2 Days in Paris is much darker and angrier than the sunny, loving Before Sunset.

There are quite a few funny moments in the film even though the film tends towards dark humor. I would say that the most enjoyable scenes in 2 Days in Paris would be those that involve Delpy's family which I mean literally since her parents play her parents in the film. Her father in particular, as the owner of a saucy art gallery, is particularly entertaining but the whole family dynamic works well for the obvious reasons. I also enjoyed some of the back commentary on Parisians, a lot of which is displayed by a series of encounters with different archetype cab drivers (who are even listed in the credits as Flirtatious Taxi Driver, Racist Taxi Driver, etc.)

However, the crux of the film revolves around the couple's encounters with an endless stream of Delpy's ex-boyfriends which repeatedly puts Goldberg's character in a sulk. Delpy's character was so quick to anger and Goldberg's character was so quick to pout that I wasn't sure I even liked them by the end of the film. Also the ending, which puts Goldberg's character in a series of unlikely, bizarre encounters, somewhat ruins whatever realistic portrayal of a relationship the movie attempts to show.

Ultimately, I would say if you catch it on cable you may enjoy the funny moments the film has to offer and it was certainly a pleasant way to pass an evening but just be warned that it may not leave you with too much in the end. Here's hoping though that Delpy continues to work on her own films because I can sense that there may be another Before Sunset gem lurking around the corner.

Check out the trailer and see what you think:

Yay Knicks!

Not something said very often I know and I certainly haven't said it in awhile but that Knicks-Celtics game on Sunday night reminded me of old times (by which I mean the early-mid 90s although my dad, who took me to the game on Sunday, would say it's just not the same as the early 70s). The stadium looked nearly sold out, the crowd was pumped, the celebrities filled the sideline and the Knicks delivered a win over the reigning champion Celtics. Who could ask for anything more. I know I screamed myself a little hoarse and it just felt good to be inspired to cheer for the Knicks. New York deserves a quality basketball team and LeBron or no LeBron, I hope that the team can put the last few ugly years behind them and really pull together to rise up to the higher ranks once again.

P.S. re the picture of Jon Stewart. He was one of a number of people they showed sitting on the sidelines (along with Whoopi Goldbert, Taye Diggs, Penny Marshall, Carl Banks and, although not shown but present, Spike Lee) but when he popped up on the screen he had his adorable four year old son on his lap. I glanced over to where he was sitting a few times during the game and he seemed to really be trying to explain the game to his son (who kept pointing at various people on the court). The son did seem to get a bit restless towards the end and I saw Jon Stewart pull him back in once when he got too close to the edge of the sideline but it appeared to be a sweet father son evening out.

Meet Shaun the Sheep

So I am a HUGE Wallace & Gromit/Nick Park fan and greatly enjoyed the W&G classic A Close Shave featuring the adorable little sheep Shaun. Well Shaun was so popular that the character was spun off into a series of shorts featuring Shaun on the farm with his sheep, dog, farmer and pig friends. The series airs in the U.S. on the Disney Channel and while they had been showing only one short a week, lately, it's been ramped up to a few times a week. I've been watching them faithfully and while they are definitely aimed for kids and thus a little hit or miss, there are some really funny ones wedged in. Check out these two shorts in particular (both of which cracked me up over the weekend) and let me know what you think!

Camping Chaos: http://www.tudou.com/programs/view/zGnwY95SWDQ/

Washing Day: http://www.tudou.com/programs/view/5D0fdFD25uI/