He did a series of commercials for stamps.com back in 1999. They are all :30 to 1:00 so you can get through them quickly. I thought you might enjoy:
Bob Newhart is just pure comedic genius.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Thursday, January 29, 2009
MI- 5 aka Spooks
In England, there is a series called "Spooks." When it plays here on BBCAmerica, it is called "MI-5." MI-5 is the British equivalent of the FBI and MI-6 is their CIA. For example, James Bond works for MI-6.There are currently 6 seasons, which is roughly 62 episodes. I watched the first 4 seasons on Netflix Instant. I currently am in the middle of season 5 on DVD and looks like their is a bit of a wait for season 6.
The show is amazing. It is well written, well acted and I've found myself holding my breath on more than one occasion. There is a real sense of danger because they have no hesitation in killing off characters when the plot line calls for it. The first two seasons have a real sense both plot and characterization. Season three and four focused more on plot and now season five seems to be back on track.
I highly recommend checking out this series. There isn't a week episode so far which is impressive that it can keep the same level of intensity episode after episode. I also feel like they show the real wear and tear of being a spy would have on the characters over time.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
This Week In Netflix
"Emma" (1996) Description from Netflix: In this adaptation of Jane Austen's timeless novel, Kate Beckinsale stars as Emma Woodhouse, the charming and oh-so-clever young lady who fancies herself a matchmaker. As she attempts to find a husband for a shy friend (Samantha Morton), however, it becomes clear that Emma's matchmaking abilities are not quite up to par. Little does Emma realize that her interest in the affairs of others could cause her to miss out on the love of her life.
I was catching up on all the Jane Austen adaptations before watching the movie below. I thought this was an okay adaption. I thought Kate Beckinsale did a good job. Emma is toward the bottom of my favorites of Jane Austen's works. I still think that "Clueless" was the best adaption done to date.
"Jane Austen Book Club" (2007) Description from Netflix: Six book club members find their lives resemble a modern-day version of Jane Austen's novels in this drama. Sylvia's (Amy Brenneman) husband of 20-plus years has walked out; Jocelyn (Maria Bello) breeds dogs to escape loneliness; Prudie (Emily Blunt) dreams of other men; Bernadette (Kathy Baker) hopes to find Mr. Right; Allegra (Maggie Grace) has issues with her girlfriend; and Grigg (Hugh Dancy), the only man, wonders why he's even in the club.
I was a bit disappointed in this. I think I need to read the book it is based on because it fell pretty shallow and glossed over. The only character I really identified with was the guy, Grigg, and he happened to be in charge of my favorite Austen book, North Hanger Abby. I can't say I recommend it. I may watch it again after I read the book, but probably not.
"You Kill Me" (2007) Description from Netflix: Alcoholic hit man Frank Falenczyk (Ben Kingsley) botches an assignment, leaving the mob family he works for to clean up the mess. Relocating to San Francisco, Frank dries out, gets a job at a mortuary and falls in love with Laurel (Téa Leoni). But when the family is threatened, he returns to take care of business, with Laurel in tow. Philip Baker Hall and Dennis Farina co-star in director John Dahl's quirky crime comedy.
A very indy-like off beat movie. May be one of the few Tea Leoni performances that I've ever liked. I thought it was just okay, but overall I felt it could make up it's mind if it was a comedy or not. Took me a while to get into, but it wasn't a bad movie. Can't say I recommend it, though.
With the holiday on Monday, I didn't get to see too many movies this week.
I was catching up on all the Jane Austen adaptations before watching the movie below. I thought this was an okay adaption. I thought Kate Beckinsale did a good job. Emma is toward the bottom of my favorites of Jane Austen's works. I still think that "Clueless" was the best adaption done to date.
"Jane Austen Book Club" (2007) Description from Netflix: Six book club members find their lives resemble a modern-day version of Jane Austen's novels in this drama. Sylvia's (Amy Brenneman) husband of 20-plus years has walked out; Jocelyn (Maria Bello) breeds dogs to escape loneliness; Prudie (Emily Blunt) dreams of other men; Bernadette (Kathy Baker) hopes to find Mr. Right; Allegra (Maggie Grace) has issues with her girlfriend; and Grigg (Hugh Dancy), the only man, wonders why he's even in the club.
I was a bit disappointed in this. I think I need to read the book it is based on because it fell pretty shallow and glossed over. The only character I really identified with was the guy, Grigg, and he happened to be in charge of my favorite Austen book, North Hanger Abby. I can't say I recommend it. I may watch it again after I read the book, but probably not.
"You Kill Me" (2007) Description from Netflix: Alcoholic hit man Frank Falenczyk (Ben Kingsley) botches an assignment, leaving the mob family he works for to clean up the mess. Relocating to San Francisco, Frank dries out, gets a job at a mortuary and falls in love with Laurel (Téa Leoni). But when the family is threatened, he returns to take care of business, with Laurel in tow. Philip Baker Hall and Dennis Farina co-star in director John Dahl's quirky crime comedy.
A very indy-like off beat movie. May be one of the few Tea Leoni performances that I've ever liked. I thought it was just okay, but overall I felt it could make up it's mind if it was a comedy or not. Took me a while to get into, but it wasn't a bad movie. Can't say I recommend it, though.
With the holiday on Monday, I didn't get to see too many movies this week.
Monday, January 26, 2009
Friday, January 23, 2009
Circuit City is Going out of Business
So you know what that means - DVD sale! I got the following movies for a total of $40.
Blade Runner - The Final Cut
John Q.
Johnny Dangerously
Layer Cake
Mannequin/Mannequin 2: On the Move
Troop Beverly Hills
Judge all you want, but I will watch them over and over again.
Blade Runner - The Final Cut
John Q.
Johnny Dangerously
Layer Cake
Mannequin/Mannequin 2: On the Move
Troop Beverly Hills
Judge all you want, but I will watch them over and over again.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Baz Luhrmann's Australia
I think this completely reflects my thoughts on this movie. I found this on Edgar Wright's MySpace blog.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
25 Things About Me
On Facebook, people tag each other to post 25 random facts about themselves. Here is the list I posted that I thought you might enjoy:
1. While I have no issues with computers, I do not trust robots of any kind, including roombas.
2. My new favorite phrase is "thunder snow."
3. I am allergic to Christmas trees or as I like to call them "the itchy death."
4. Once when I was changing out of my candy striper uniform in a bathroom stall at the hospital, I was making my friend Natalie laugh by singing (terribly) the "Wanderer" by Dion. I did not hear the 10 or so other volunteers come in until they cheered and clapped when I was done. I did not leave the stall until they had all gone.
5. I think pop tastes best in glass bottles.
6. Despite my perpetual tomboy phase, I am an avid fan of all things Jane Austen.
7. I haven't had a cigarette in 9 years. I haven't had a cigar in 2 years.
8. There is not a single drop of musical ability in my blood. This includes trying to play Guitar Hero.
9. Twice I have locked my keys in the car and once was while I was at the LA DMV. The AAA operator laughed when I told her were I was so they could come help me.
10. I believe that cookie dough bought in the store should be eaten as cookie dough. If I want cookies, I will by them or make them from scratch.
11. I did not realize that your first confession was done face to face with a priest. I was so incredibly pissed about this, I lied to Father Fridel's face about my sins. I said that I had nothing to confess despite fighting with my parents hours earlier. I made him come up with suggestions as to what I might have done. I, eventually, picked one and said "sure." I was in second grade. I'm still pissed they didn't warn me about that.
12. On more than one occasion, I have fallen asleep face first in a book.
13. I never went through a dinosaur phase, a mummy phase, a unicorn phase, a barbie phase or a princess phase. I don't think this would surprise anyone.
14. When I am bored, I try to imagine if I were a professional photographer, how I would shoot various celebrities.
15. I have multiple contingency plans for every kind of disaster including zombies, aliens and as mentioned in #1 - robots.
16. Should I ever get married, my friend, Theresa, is completely in charge of it. All I care is that there is an open bar and that my dress have sleeves. I have never put any more thought on it than that.
17. Blue has remained my favorite color since I was little.
18. I have accidentally set one person on fire (technically just their hair and technically the candle did most of the work) and have not directed a film or video since. Upon telling this story to two other friends, a joke emerged of "set me on fire once..."
19. Music sounds best on vinyl.
20. When a friend of mine was little (long before he met me), he created a demon who ruins the ends of movies. He thought he was rather clever until he met me and realized I actually existed. For the record, I never mean to intentionally ruin the endings of movies, they just sort of blurt out. Solent green is people.
21. I have never written nor received a love letter.
22. I still own the first generation Nintendo and have it's original box. I even play Tetris on it every so often.
23. Far too many people have been taught to properly spell and pronounce my last name correctly for me to ever give it up. However, if his last name is Darcy, I would reconsider (see #6).
24. I usually don't do notes like this, but was in the mood and couldn't sleep.
25. This list will most likely be republished on my blog.
As you can see, all of the items are true especially #25.
1. While I have no issues with computers, I do not trust robots of any kind, including roombas.
2. My new favorite phrase is "thunder snow."
3. I am allergic to Christmas trees or as I like to call them "the itchy death."
4. Once when I was changing out of my candy striper uniform in a bathroom stall at the hospital, I was making my friend Natalie laugh by singing (terribly) the "Wanderer" by Dion. I did not hear the 10 or so other volunteers come in until they cheered and clapped when I was done. I did not leave the stall until they had all gone.
5. I think pop tastes best in glass bottles.
6. Despite my perpetual tomboy phase, I am an avid fan of all things Jane Austen.
7. I haven't had a cigarette in 9 years. I haven't had a cigar in 2 years.
8. There is not a single drop of musical ability in my blood. This includes trying to play Guitar Hero.
9. Twice I have locked my keys in the car and once was while I was at the LA DMV. The AAA operator laughed when I told her were I was so they could come help me.
10. I believe that cookie dough bought in the store should be eaten as cookie dough. If I want cookies, I will by them or make them from scratch.
11. I did not realize that your first confession was done face to face with a priest. I was so incredibly pissed about this, I lied to Father Fridel's face about my sins. I said that I had nothing to confess despite fighting with my parents hours earlier. I made him come up with suggestions as to what I might have done. I, eventually, picked one and said "sure." I was in second grade. I'm still pissed they didn't warn me about that.
12. On more than one occasion, I have fallen asleep face first in a book.
13. I never went through a dinosaur phase, a mummy phase, a unicorn phase, a barbie phase or a princess phase. I don't think this would surprise anyone.
14. When I am bored, I try to imagine if I were a professional photographer, how I would shoot various celebrities.
15. I have multiple contingency plans for every kind of disaster including zombies, aliens and as mentioned in #1 - robots.
16. Should I ever get married, my friend, Theresa, is completely in charge of it. All I care is that there is an open bar and that my dress have sleeves. I have never put any more thought on it than that.
17. Blue has remained my favorite color since I was little.
18. I have accidentally set one person on fire (technically just their hair and technically the candle did most of the work) and have not directed a film or video since. Upon telling this story to two other friends, a joke emerged of "set me on fire once..."
19. Music sounds best on vinyl.
20. When a friend of mine was little (long before he met me), he created a demon who ruins the ends of movies. He thought he was rather clever until he met me and realized I actually existed. For the record, I never mean to intentionally ruin the endings of movies, they just sort of blurt out. Solent green is people.
21. I have never written nor received a love letter.
22. I still own the first generation Nintendo and have it's original box. I even play Tetris on it every so often.
23. Far too many people have been taught to properly spell and pronounce my last name correctly for me to ever give it up. However, if his last name is Darcy, I would reconsider (see #6).
24. I usually don't do notes like this, but was in the mood and couldn't sleep.
25. This list will most likely be republished on my blog.
As you can see, all of the items are true especially #25.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Monday, January 19, 2009
This Week in Netflix
"Dune" (1984) Description from Netflix: Frank Herbert's wildly popular sci-fi novel gets a mesmerizing treatment from director David Lynch. It's the year 10,191, and the world is fighting for control of the desert planet Dune -- the only place where Spice, a time-travel substance, can be found. When one leader relinquishes control, it's only so he can stage a coup with some very unsavory characters. Fans of rock musician Sting will love his turn as the villain Feyd.
I am a bad geek for taking this long to see this movie. I think I need to read the book because I had no idea what was really going on for a good chunk of the movie. This is a perfect example of why average folks don't like science-fiction in general. They think all scifi is like this. It was dense and really hard to follow. However, I now get a whole lot more Dune references than before. I now know that the song "Weapon of Choice" by Fatboy Slim is quoting this movie with the line "Walk without rhythm and you won't attract the worm." Who would have thought?
"Middletown" (2006) Description from Netflix: A preacher takes zealotry to new levels -- and faces the wrath of his brother -- when he returns to his vice-ridden hometown in this thriller. The Rev. Gabriel Hunter (Matthew Macfadyen) is stunned to find the village of Middletown awash in sin; but when he begins a mission to save the town, he's shocked to find opposition in his own brother (Daniel Mays), sending his soul-saving efforts into overdrive and setting up an explosive confrontation.
This is only and hour and a half and I had to shut if off after 45 mins. It was way too melodramatic for me and none of the characters were worth caring about. I rented it purely for Matthew Macfadyen and it wasn't worth it. Do not consider watching.
"Miss Potter" (2006) Description from Netflix: Blending lush animation sequences with live-action drama, director Chris Noonan constructs this biopic about the personal life of beloved children's author and illustrator Beatrix Potter. Featuring the Academy Award-winning Renee Zellweger as the title character and co-starring Emily Watson and Ewan McGregor, the film traces Potter's private life as well as her contributions to literature such as the timeless "Tale of Peter Rabbit."
I found this movie to be adorable. Sad at parts, but overall, just as sweet and cute as the fluffy bunnies that Beautrix Potter wrote about. Worth renting if in the movie for a popcorn romantic comedy.
"Pride and Prejudice" (2005) Description from Netflix: In this retelling of Jane Austen's novel set in 19th-century England, Mrs. Bennet (Brenda Blethyn) is all atwitter in hopes of marrying her daughters to prosperous gentlemen callers, especially when a wealthy bachelor moves nearby. Headstrong daughter Elizabeth (Keira Knightley) meets her match in Mr. Darcy, but misinterprets Darcy's honorable intentions and jeopardizes her chance at love. Donald Sutherland, Judi Dench and Jena Malone co-star.
I saw this in the theater and didn't like it. I wanted to give it a second chance to see if maybe it was worth a second viewing. Nope. I actually hated it more now having read the book. This is just an abomination and should not be watched.
"Mansfield Park" (1999) Description from Netflix: Penniless heroine Fanny Price (Frances O'Connor) is sent to live with wealthy relatives in 1800s England, where her wit and writing talent find the room -- and circumstance -- to grow. Her friendship with cousin Edmund (Jonny Lee Miller) evolves into a deep love, but Fanny is pursued by an eager suitor (Alessandro Nivola), whose sister is after Edmund. The film is loosely based on Jane Austen's most autobiographical novel.
They say that only true Jane Austen fans can like this movie because it is so mediocre to her other stories, but it is also supposed to be closer to her real life and any of the others. I thought it was good, not great. It was weird seeing Eli Stone (Jonny Lee Miller) with a British accent and not being chased around by George Michael. I will read the book now and see if the movie is a good representation or not.
"Persuasion" (1995) Description from Netflix: In 1814 England, Anne Elliot (Amanda Root), the daughter of a financially troubled, aristocratic family, is persuaded to break her engagement to Frederick Wentworth, a young sea captain. Eight years later, money troubles force Anne's father to rent out the family estate to Admiral Croft, and Anne is again thrown into company with Frederick -- now rich, successful and perhaps still in love with Anne. Based on Jane Austen's novel.
I thought this was dreadfully slow compared to her other books. Wentworth is not as amiable as her other romantic leads. The heroine is a tolerable girl who puts up with a whole lot from her dreadful family with no complaint. I think this was my issue with it. All her other heroines had someone to confide in and someone to tell her feelings. It's well acted as you see she is bursting at the seams to talk about her inner turmoil, but has insane amounts of restraint. I would rank this one and "Mansfield Park" on the same level tied for fifth place behind "Northanger Abby," "Pride and Predjudice," "Sense and Sensibilty " and "Emma." I may put off reading this book for a while.
I'm back down to 3 movies-at-a-time so I'm not sure how much that will slow me down going through all these movies. Not to mention that the regular tv season is coming back to full strength.
Also, sad to report my Netflix ranking has dropped to: 12,852 (up 101 from 12,751). I'm slacking.
I am a bad geek for taking this long to see this movie. I think I need to read the book because I had no idea what was really going on for a good chunk of the movie. This is a perfect example of why average folks don't like science-fiction in general. They think all scifi is like this. It was dense and really hard to follow. However, I now get a whole lot more Dune references than before. I now know that the song "Weapon of Choice" by Fatboy Slim is quoting this movie with the line "Walk without rhythm and you won't attract the worm." Who would have thought?
"Middletown" (2006) Description from Netflix: A preacher takes zealotry to new levels -- and faces the wrath of his brother -- when he returns to his vice-ridden hometown in this thriller. The Rev. Gabriel Hunter (Matthew Macfadyen) is stunned to find the village of Middletown awash in sin; but when he begins a mission to save the town, he's shocked to find opposition in his own brother (Daniel Mays), sending his soul-saving efforts into overdrive and setting up an explosive confrontation.
This is only and hour and a half and I had to shut if off after 45 mins. It was way too melodramatic for me and none of the characters were worth caring about. I rented it purely for Matthew Macfadyen and it wasn't worth it. Do not consider watching.
"Miss Potter" (2006) Description from Netflix: Blending lush animation sequences with live-action drama, director Chris Noonan constructs this biopic about the personal life of beloved children's author and illustrator Beatrix Potter. Featuring the Academy Award-winning Renee Zellweger as the title character and co-starring Emily Watson and Ewan McGregor, the film traces Potter's private life as well as her contributions to literature such as the timeless "Tale of Peter Rabbit."
I found this movie to be adorable. Sad at parts, but overall, just as sweet and cute as the fluffy bunnies that Beautrix Potter wrote about. Worth renting if in the movie for a popcorn romantic comedy.
"Pride and Prejudice" (2005) Description from Netflix: In this retelling of Jane Austen's novel set in 19th-century England, Mrs. Bennet (Brenda Blethyn) is all atwitter in hopes of marrying her daughters to prosperous gentlemen callers, especially when a wealthy bachelor moves nearby. Headstrong daughter Elizabeth (Keira Knightley) meets her match in Mr. Darcy, but misinterprets Darcy's honorable intentions and jeopardizes her chance at love. Donald Sutherland, Judi Dench and Jena Malone co-star.
I saw this in the theater and didn't like it. I wanted to give it a second chance to see if maybe it was worth a second viewing. Nope. I actually hated it more now having read the book. This is just an abomination and should not be watched.
"Mansfield Park" (1999) Description from Netflix: Penniless heroine Fanny Price (Frances O'Connor) is sent to live with wealthy relatives in 1800s England, where her wit and writing talent find the room -- and circumstance -- to grow. Her friendship with cousin Edmund (Jonny Lee Miller) evolves into a deep love, but Fanny is pursued by an eager suitor (Alessandro Nivola), whose sister is after Edmund. The film is loosely based on Jane Austen's most autobiographical novel.
They say that only true Jane Austen fans can like this movie because it is so mediocre to her other stories, but it is also supposed to be closer to her real life and any of the others. I thought it was good, not great. It was weird seeing Eli Stone (Jonny Lee Miller) with a British accent and not being chased around by George Michael. I will read the book now and see if the movie is a good representation or not.
"Persuasion" (1995) Description from Netflix: In 1814 England, Anne Elliot (Amanda Root), the daughter of a financially troubled, aristocratic family, is persuaded to break her engagement to Frederick Wentworth, a young sea captain. Eight years later, money troubles force Anne's father to rent out the family estate to Admiral Croft, and Anne is again thrown into company with Frederick -- now rich, successful and perhaps still in love with Anne. Based on Jane Austen's novel.
I thought this was dreadfully slow compared to her other books. Wentworth is not as amiable as her other romantic leads. The heroine is a tolerable girl who puts up with a whole lot from her dreadful family with no complaint. I think this was my issue with it. All her other heroines had someone to confide in and someone to tell her feelings. It's well acted as you see she is bursting at the seams to talk about her inner turmoil, but has insane amounts of restraint. I would rank this one and "Mansfield Park" on the same level tied for fifth place behind "Northanger Abby," "Pride and Predjudice," "Sense and Sensibilty " and "Emma." I may put off reading this book for a while.
I'm back down to 3 movies-at-a-time so I'm not sure how much that will slow me down going through all these movies. Not to mention that the regular tv season is coming back to full strength.
Also, sad to report my Netflix ranking has dropped to: 12,852 (up 101 from 12,751). I'm slacking.
Friday, January 16, 2009
Television 2008
I did a movie wrap up of 2008, but I didn't do a television wrap up of what I have been watching. While this may seem like a lot, remember it's spread out over the year.
I watch when they air:
Battlestar Gallactica
Chuck
Desperate Housewives
Doctor Who
Grey's Anatomy
Hell's Kitchen
Heroes
House
Jericho(it got canceled in 2008)
Life On Mars
Lost
The Office
Pushing Daisies
Terminator: Sarah Connor Chronicles
Torchwood
I watch on the Internet within a week of airing:
Best Week Ever
Burn Notice
Daily Show with Jon Stewart
Dirty Sexy Money
The Colbert Report
The F Word
Psych
Robot Chicken
South Park
Top Chef
The Venture Brothers
I watch when they come out onDVD :
Eli Stone
Entourage
Mad Men
MI-5 (aka "Spooks")
Rescue Me
I have watched and liked, but I don't keep up with it as much as I would like to:
24
Bones
Cash Cab
Fosters Home for Imaginary Friends
How I Met Your Mother
Law & Order
Mythbusters
Penn & Tellers: Bullsh*t
Top Gear
I watched a few episodes/season and then gave up on:
American Dad
Big Love
Damages
ER (stopped when Juliana Margulies left)
Family Guy
Kitchen Nightmares
Monk
Private Practice
Scrubs
Simpsons (stopped watching a long, long time ago)
Smallville
Weeds
Now these are just the shows that aired during the 2007-2008 and 2008-2009 season.
I watch when they air:
Battlestar Gallactica
Chuck
Desperate Housewives
Doctor Who
Grey's Anatomy
Hell's Kitchen
Heroes
House
Jericho(it got canceled in 2008)
Life On Mars
Lost
The Office
Pushing Daisies
Terminator: Sarah Connor Chronicles
Torchwood
I watch on the Internet within a week of airing:
Best Week Ever
Burn Notice
Daily Show with Jon Stewart
Dirty Sexy Money
The Colbert Report
The F Word
Psych
Robot Chicken
South Park
Top Chef
The Venture Brothers
I watch when they come out on
Eli Stone
Entourage
Mad Men
MI-5 (aka "Spooks")
Rescue Me
I have watched and liked, but I don't keep up with it as much as I would like to:
24
Bones
Cash Cab
Fosters Home for Imaginary Friends
How I Met Your Mother
Law & Order
Mythbusters
Penn & Tellers: Bullsh*t
Top Gear
I watched a few episodes/season and then gave up on:
American Dad
Big Love
Damages
ER (stopped when Juliana Margulies left)
Family Guy
Kitchen Nightmares
Monk
Private Practice
Scrubs
Simpsons (stopped watching a long, long time ago)
Smallville
Weeds
Now these are just the shows that aired during the 2007-2008 and 2008-2009 season.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Books: Sense and Sensibility
I just finished reading "Sense and Sensibility" by Jane Austen. I have seen Emma Thompson's adaptation several times and was curious to see how she had changed the book.I liked the book as much as the movie, but I completely respect all the changes that Emma Thompson made. She condensed scenes and removed extra characters that kept the spirit of the book without losing anything. She also found ways of working in setting up the era and explaining elements of the book that modern audiences needed more info on.
I think this should be held as an example of how to adapt a book into a two hour movie without losing the essence of the book or dwelling on too many details that are good in books, but don't translate well onto film.
I highly recommend both the book and the movie.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Tripod: Kempt
Tripod is an Australian comedy musical group. I found this song on Youtube and thought I would share. Warning: it will get stuck in your head.
And as a bonus here are some quick skits of theirs from an Australian series called "SkitHouse":
And as a bonus here are some quick skits of theirs from an Australian series called "SkitHouse":
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
TED: Yossi Vardi fights local warming
This is a warning for male bloggers...very funny...references to other TED talks that I have posted.
As always, I recommend checking out more TED talks HERE.
As always, I recommend checking out more TED talks HERE.
Monday, January 12, 2009
This Week In Netflix
"We Know Where You Live. Live!" (2001) Description from Netflix: Eddie Izzard hosts this entertainment bonanza that showcases some of the best comedians and musicians from the United Kingdom. Features interviews with, and heart-pounding performances from, such headliners as U2, Dom Joly, Phill Jupitus, Jonathan Ross, Tom Jones, Harry Hill, Vic Reeves, Harry Enfield, Simon Day, The cast of Goodness Gracious Me, Paul Whitehouse, The Stereophonics, Badly Drawn Boy and more.
This was a charity concert/comedy show to raise money for Amnesty International. It was "meh" at best. Eddie Izzard was good, but it wasn't anything new. The other comedians were either just okay or completely over my head with the British references. There were a tons of cameos, but other all it wasn't worth the time.
"Then She Found Me" (2007) Description from Netflix: Helen Hunt, Colin Firth, Bette Midler and Matthew Broderick star in this comedic tale about a schoolteacher in the thick of a midlife crisis involving a messy divorce, the death of her adoptive mother and a reunion with her eccentric birth mother. As if that weren't enough to juggle, things grow even more complicated when she begins dating a man who turns out to be the father of one of her students.
This was just not a good movie at all. Helen Hunt directing herself was just a bad idea. She has poor comedic timing for a drama. She should have cast Diane Lane would have been a better choice. The movie just felt like a play at times and a film school film at others. Helen just felt like she was acting as opposed to seeming like a character. And it was slightly distracting just how old Helen Hunt looked. She's supposed to be 39 and in real life she was 44, but she looked 50. Bette Middler (62) was supposed to be her mother and they almost looked the same age. It was pretty bad and I can't recommend it even for a rental.
"Penelope" (2007) Description from Netflix: Penelope Wilhern (Christina Ricci) is cursed, and the only way out of it is to fall in love with someone of suitable stock. But how can she possibly find her soul mate when she's sequestered inside her family's sprawling estate with only her parents (Catherine O'Hara and Richard E. Grant) to keep her company? Oscar winner Reese Witherspoon co-produced this unconventional fairy tale about a girl who bucks convention to make her own happy ending.
LOVE this movie! Everyone should see it. A modern fairytale. I added it to my wishlist the moment it finished. This movie also proves that James McAvoy can do an American accent and that "Wanted" was just crappy all they way around. It was just a fantastic movie all they way around and can't reccomend it enough.
"Hello, Dolly!" (1969) Description from Netflix: Composer Jerry Herman's Tony Award-winning Broadway musical was adapted for the big screen in an outsize production featuring Barbra Streisand as matchmaker Dolly Levi. When wealthy merchant Horace Vandergelder (Walter Matthau) hires Dolly to find a mate for him, she decides to win him over for herself. Songs include "Before the Parade Passes By," "It Takes a Woman" and the glorious title tune. Michael Kidd staged the exhilarating dances.
I lifted my Barbara Streisand ban to see this. This is the movie Wall-e watches and I wanted to see it to put it in context. I forgot how long musical numbers used to be. Dear me, they went on for an eternity. Also, Walter Matthau singing was slightly disturbing. There is one song about why you need a wife and all I could hear in my head was Professor Higgins singing "Never let a woman in your life" and "Why can't a woman be more like a man?" All in all. Just okay.
"Eli Stone: Season 1" (2007) Description from Netflix: Cutthroat attorney Eli Stone (Jonny Lee Miller) has a problem: He's starting to care about the people he's supposed to be exploiting. And adding insult to injury, he's having prophetic hallucinations and prescient visions. Could it be that he has a higher calling? From the creators of the popular drama "Brothers and Sisters," this quirky series follows the quasi-spiritual exploits of Eli, the people's prophetic attorney.
Upon my mother's urging, I rented this. I have to say it is very good with a positive theme which is why it's ratings are low and it got casted. I liked it more than I thought and look forward to seeing it's second and final season when it comes out on DVD. Side note, like "Alias" they shoot a lot of it on the Disney lot so it was nice recognizing a lot of the locations even though it's supposed to take place in San Francisco. And George Michael did a great job as a re-occuring character.
The next week or two should just be movies and no tv shows for a bit. I knew I would have all 4 discs over the weekend so I rearranged the queue a bit to be able to watch the full "Eli Stone" series in 2 days.
This was a charity concert/comedy show to raise money for Amnesty International. It was "meh" at best. Eddie Izzard was good, but it wasn't anything new. The other comedians were either just okay or completely over my head with the British references. There were a tons of cameos, but other all it wasn't worth the time.
"Then She Found Me" (2007) Description from Netflix: Helen Hunt, Colin Firth, Bette Midler and Matthew Broderick star in this comedic tale about a schoolteacher in the thick of a midlife crisis involving a messy divorce, the death of her adoptive mother and a reunion with her eccentric birth mother. As if that weren't enough to juggle, things grow even more complicated when she begins dating a man who turns out to be the father of one of her students.
This was just not a good movie at all. Helen Hunt directing herself was just a bad idea. She has poor comedic timing for a drama. She should have cast Diane Lane would have been a better choice. The movie just felt like a play at times and a film school film at others. Helen just felt like she was acting as opposed to seeming like a character. And it was slightly distracting just how old Helen Hunt looked. She's supposed to be 39 and in real life she was 44, but she looked 50. Bette Middler (62) was supposed to be her mother and they almost looked the same age. It was pretty bad and I can't recommend it even for a rental.
"Penelope" (2007) Description from Netflix: Penelope Wilhern (Christina Ricci) is cursed, and the only way out of it is to fall in love with someone of suitable stock. But how can she possibly find her soul mate when she's sequestered inside her family's sprawling estate with only her parents (Catherine O'Hara and Richard E. Grant) to keep her company? Oscar winner Reese Witherspoon co-produced this unconventional fairy tale about a girl who bucks convention to make her own happy ending.
LOVE this movie! Everyone should see it. A modern fairytale. I added it to my wishlist the moment it finished. This movie also proves that James McAvoy can do an American accent and that "Wanted" was just crappy all they way around. It was just a fantastic movie all they way around and can't reccomend it enough.
"Hello, Dolly!" (1969) Description from Netflix: Composer Jerry Herman's Tony Award-winning Broadway musical was adapted for the big screen in an outsize production featuring Barbra Streisand as matchmaker Dolly Levi. When wealthy merchant Horace Vandergelder (Walter Matthau) hires Dolly to find a mate for him, she decides to win him over for herself. Songs include "Before the Parade Passes By," "It Takes a Woman" and the glorious title tune. Michael Kidd staged the exhilarating dances.
I lifted my Barbara Streisand ban to see this. This is the movie Wall-e watches and I wanted to see it to put it in context. I forgot how long musical numbers used to be. Dear me, they went on for an eternity. Also, Walter Matthau singing was slightly disturbing. There is one song about why you need a wife and all I could hear in my head was Professor Higgins singing "Never let a woman in your life" and "Why can't a woman be more like a man?" All in all. Just okay.
"Eli Stone: Season 1" (2007) Description from Netflix: Cutthroat attorney Eli Stone (Jonny Lee Miller) has a problem: He's starting to care about the people he's supposed to be exploiting. And adding insult to injury, he's having prophetic hallucinations and prescient visions. Could it be that he has a higher calling? From the creators of the popular drama "Brothers and Sisters," this quirky series follows the quasi-spiritual exploits of Eli, the people's prophetic attorney.
Upon my mother's urging, I rented this. I have to say it is very good with a positive theme which is why it's ratings are low and it got casted. I liked it more than I thought and look forward to seeing it's second and final season when it comes out on DVD. Side note, like "Alias" they shoot a lot of it on the Disney lot so it was nice recognizing a lot of the locations even though it's supposed to take place in San Francisco. And George Michael did a great job as a re-occuring character.
The next week or two should just be movies and no tv shows for a bit. I knew I would have all 4 discs over the weekend so I rearranged the queue a bit to be able to watch the full "Eli Stone" series in 2 days.
Friday, January 9, 2009
Seven Pounds
I saw this with a co-worker. It's kind of a strange movie and I can see why it is getting mixed reviews.I would post the description of the movie, but all the information that is given in the synopsis isn't revealed until the last 20 minutes of the film.
This is the frustrating part about the movie. You don't know what's going on. They give you a little bit of info to piece together, but overall you have to pay very close attention and once you figure it out you have to just wait and see if what you have figured out is correct.
I didn't care for it much because I knew where it was going once I figured it out and then kept waiting for a twist.
I'm guessing the people who didn't figure out what was going on liked it and the rest didn't and that's why the reviews are mixed.
I also think the "Merchant of Venice" reference with the title is a bit too obscure and doesn't really go with the movie. There is another element of the movie - jellyfish - which doesn't quite fit with the theme either.
All in all, it wasn't that great of a movie because of the highly frustrating parts of trying to figure out what exactly is going on. Sixth Sense did the same thing, but far less frustrating because you get more info as you go.
In conclusion, it's a rental.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Most Attractive/Most Elegant Women Contest
Since I posted up the gentleman, it is only fair that I post up the ladies. Hello Magazine (A Brit magazine) is having a most attractive/most elegant woman contest for 2008. I heard about it on Facebook. There are 12 choices of most attractive and 12 choice for most elegant and I only agree with 4 of them total. I agree with:
So my 4 that I would add would be (unfortunately, some had to be American):
I hope this satisfies all my readers with both posts. Also find it disappointing that for some people I wanted to post, I just couldn't find a really great photo of them.
So my 4 that I would add would be (unfortunately, some had to be American):I hope this satisfies all my readers with both posts. Also find it disappointing that for some people I wanted to post, I just couldn't find a really great photo of them.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Most Attractive Man Contest
Hello Magazine (A Brit magazine) is having a most attractive man contest for 2008. I heard about it on Facebook. There are 12 choices and I only agree with 4 of them. I agree with:
I feel they should have also included the below since all of these choices are from somewhere under the reign of her majesty not to mention in the same league as the above:
Now clearly this isn't of all time, but just in 2008, but I think my picks to choose from are better and the old standards of Brad Pitt or Johnny Depp or Hugh Jackman. I thought I would share.
I feel they should have also included the below since all of these choices are from somewhere under the reign of her majesty not to mention in the same league as the above:
Now clearly this isn't of all time, but just in 2008, but I think my picks to choose from are better and the old standards of Brad Pitt or Johnny Depp or Hugh Jackman. I thought I would share.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
The 1st Week in Netflix
How I Met Your Mother: Season 1 (2005) Description from Netflix: When his best friend, Marshall (Jason Segel), announces that he's finally going to wed his longtime girlfriend (Alyson Hannigan), single guy Ted (Josh Radnor) throws his search for a soul mate into high gear. Via flashback, he recounts to his kids (Lyndsy Fonseca and David Henrie) 25 years later the often-hilarious story of how he met -- and eventually married -- their mother. Neil Patrick Harris plays Ted's barhopping buddy.
I wasn't as into it as I thought I would be. I think I've lost my taste for sitcoms. Neil Patrick Harris is the best part of the series. The best episode has him in need of a wingman and when none of the guys are free, he invites one of the girls who turns out the be an awesome wingman. I'll add season 2 to my queue, but won't movie it up for a while. Too many other priorities ahead of it.
The Natural (1984) Description from Netflix: A bat made from a tree struck by lightning and a passion for baseball define Roy Hobbs (Robert Redford). But when he's shot and severely wounded, his career gets cut short. Years later, Hobbs tries out for a struggling team. He steps to the plate and knocks the ball out of the park in this mythic film that's as epic as America's national pastime.
According to the DVD, I ended up watching the director's cut of the movie. I had only seen clips of the original. I liked the movie a lot and it didn't feel as long as the movie was. I had no idea Michael Madson has been acting that long. First time I ever saw him, was 10 years late in "Reservoir Dogs."
Watching a entire TV series may seem like a slow down, but it was 3 discs. Therefore, I got through the equivalent of 4 movies this week. I'm trying to balance individual movies with TV shows so I have 6 movies until the next TV season.
My Netflix Current Ranking: 12,751 (-581 from last ranking change)
I wasn't as into it as I thought I would be. I think I've lost my taste for sitcoms. Neil Patrick Harris is the best part of the series. The best episode has him in need of a wingman and when none of the guys are free, he invites one of the girls who turns out the be an awesome wingman. I'll add season 2 to my queue, but won't movie it up for a while. Too many other priorities ahead of it.
The Natural (1984) Description from Netflix: A bat made from a tree struck by lightning and a passion for baseball define Roy Hobbs (Robert Redford). But when he's shot and severely wounded, his career gets cut short. Years later, Hobbs tries out for a struggling team. He steps to the plate and knocks the ball out of the park in this mythic film that's as epic as America's national pastime.
According to the DVD, I ended up watching the director's cut of the movie. I had only seen clips of the original. I liked the movie a lot and it didn't feel as long as the movie was. I had no idea Michael Madson has been acting that long. First time I ever saw him, was 10 years late in "Reservoir Dogs."
Watching a entire TV series may seem like a slow down, but it was 3 discs. Therefore, I got through the equivalent of 4 movies this week. I'm trying to balance individual movies with TV shows so I have 6 movies until the next TV season.
My Netflix Current Ranking: 12,751 (-581 from last ranking change)
Monday, January 5, 2009
Resolutions 2009
They say that publishing your New Year's Resolutions help pressure you into accomplishing them. I've done this in years past and it does seem to help, however, every year I end up having the same ones on there so maybe it doesn't work after all. I have learned that making grand statements like "Lose XX pounds" doesn't really work unless you breakdown how with littler resolutions that are easier to actually do and seem all the less overwhelming. So with that in mind here are my resolutions for 2009:
1. Health/Fitness
- If there is the option of taking the stairs or the elevator, stairs must be taken (exception: if bringing up groceries)
- 3 months of swimming 3x a week
- (1) 30-60 min walk a week
- 5K walk/run in May
- Log keeping track of status must be kept
- Re-evaluate progress in June to figure next steps
- Make lunch every day
- Take vitamins
- Eat breakfast
- No eating after 8p
- In bed by 11:30p
2. Finances
- No more Starbucks
- No eating out at all in January
- $20 a week into savings
- Once credit cards are down to below 50%, ask for lower APR
- Use majority of any tax refund to pay down credit cards
- Get loan paid down to half
3. Personal Advancement
- Cook one new recipe a week
- Read at least a few pages from a book every day
- No TV after 11pm
- Make bed everyday
- Go out to the movies once a week (must try new movie theaters)
- Watch one new TED video a week
- Give Blood every 3 months
- Be a better blogger by blogging on time and more variety
- Explore Seattle more
4. Random Things I Need to Do
- Get a couch
- Get a professional level camera
- Change my cell phone to a Seattle number
- Get Washington plates (more complicated than it seems)
- Get basic cable because of the digital conversion
5. Projects
- Scan photos that don't have digital versions
- Print digital photos out
- Frame photos
- Hang posters
- Decorate apartment
One of the websites I read (IO9.com) had an article that lists all the scifi ways people can lose weight: Fantastical Ways to Lose Weight in the New Year
1. Health/Fitness
- If there is the option of taking the stairs or the elevator, stairs must be taken (exception: if bringing up groceries)
- 3 months of swimming 3x a week
- (1) 30-60 min walk a week
- 5K walk/run in May
- Log keeping track of status must be kept
- Re-evaluate progress in June to figure next steps
- Make lunch every day
- Take vitamins
- Eat breakfast
- No eating after 8p
- In bed by 11:30p
2. Finances
- No more Starbucks
- No eating out at all in January
- $20 a week into savings
- Once credit cards are down to below 50%, ask for lower APR
- Use majority of any tax refund to pay down credit cards
- Get loan paid down to half
3. Personal Advancement
- Cook one new recipe a week
- Read at least a few pages from a book every day
- No TV after 11pm
- Make bed everyday
- Go out to the movies once a week (must try new movie theaters)
- Watch one new TED video a week
- Give Blood every 3 months
- Be a better blogger by blogging on time and more variety
- Explore Seattle more
4. Random Things I Need to Do
- Get a couch
- Get a professional level camera
- Change my cell phone to a Seattle number
- Get Washington plates (more complicated than it seems)
- Get basic cable because of the digital conversion
5. Projects
- Scan photos that don't have digital versions
- Print digital photos out
- Frame photos
- Hang posters
- Decorate apartment
One of the websites I read (IO9.com) had an article that lists all the scifi ways people can lose weight: Fantastical Ways to Lose Weight in the New Year
Friday, January 2, 2009
2009 Movies to Look Forward To
Here are the movies I am looking forward to seeing next year:
Bride Wars (Guilty pleasure)
Duplicity (spy movie)
Fanboys
Watchmen
Sunshine Cleaning (Amy Adams)
Monsters v.s. Aliens
The Soloist (Robert Downey, Jr.)
X-Men Origins: Wolverine
Star Trek
Terminator Salvation
Up (Pixar)
Year One (Harold Raimis)
Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince
G.I. Joe
Whiteout (based on a comic)
Avatar (James Cameron)
The Princess and the Frog (Disney Animated)
The Lovely Bones (Peter Jackson)
Sherlock Holmes
Wolfman
I put the reason next to it when it wasn't obvious by the title why I want to see it. These are just the ones I know about now. More will be added as commercials appear. I can compare this list to the ones I actually see this time next year.
Bride Wars (Guilty pleasure)
Duplicity (spy movie)
Fanboys
Watchmen
Sunshine Cleaning (Amy Adams)
Monsters v.s. Aliens
The Soloist (Robert Downey, Jr.)
X-Men Origins: Wolverine
Star Trek
Terminator Salvation
Up (Pixar)
Year One (Harold Raimis)
Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince
G.I. Joe
Whiteout (based on a comic)
Avatar (James Cameron)
The Princess and the Frog (Disney Animated)
The Lovely Bones (Peter Jackson)
Sherlock Holmes
Wolfman
I put the reason next to it when it wasn't obvious by the title why I want to see it. These are just the ones I know about now. More will be added as commercials appear. I can compare this list to the ones I actually see this time next year.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
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