I woke last night in a cold sweat. I went to the kitchen to get a drink. That's when I saw them; the red eyes. I froze. I always thought the Mothman was a myth, but this indisputable evidence made me think other wise. Then my wife came in and turned on the kitchen light. The red eyes turned into the coffee machine. "What are you doing?" she asked. "Nothing." I replied and returned to bed.
You know what's not the best idea? Reading the Mothman Prophecies when you live right in the middle of where said book is based. It makes you think silly thoughts and wonder if you're really alone or not. Needless to say I read the book when the Wife and I move here to Point Pleasant, West Virginia. It was very different from how I thought it would be. Much more journalistic, much more believable. I grew up just across the river from Point Pleasant in Ohio, so I've always heard of Mothman, but I never put too much interest in it. Here in Point Pleasant you either like Mothman or hate Mothman. I don't mean the creature itself, I mean what it represents. There are many people in town who'd rather ignore the idea all together, like nothing ever happened. I can't figure out if they are scared or embarrassed. Others like myself embrace the myth for what it is; a myth. Mothman is something that put Point Pleasant on the map and I think too many people who live there forget that.
So if you haven't heard, September 16-18 is the 10th Annual Mothman Festival in Point Pleasant, West Virginia! The event features music, hay rides through the TNT area, vendors and speakers. The festival starts on Friday with the Miss Mothman Pageant. On Saturday morning the Wife and I will host the second annual Mothman 5k run (contact me for more info or follow on Facebook and the Twitter). Shortly after the run the festival itself gets into full swing in historic downtown Point Pleasant. I have been several times now, so here is a run down of the things you must do. Mothman Pancakes! Yes, pancakes shaped like Mothman. Eat them. The Ghostbusters will be there for a photo opportunity. Meet the "Men in Black," (minus Will Smith) who can be spotted wondering all over the festival. Take your picture with the famous Mothman statue at Gunn Park. Also, be sure to catch screenings of Eyes of the Mothman and The Mothman Prophecies, which will be shown at the Historic State Theater on Main St. Here is an article on the festival written by a talented and knowledgeable local news reporter.
So plan out a fun adventure to Mothmantown. Look us up if you drop in, as long as you're not a creepy stalker type.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Monday, September 5, 2011
Review: Rise of the Planet of the Apes
So sorry this review has taken us so long. We actually saw this last weekend, but ended up watching too much Mad Men on Netflix to review either this or Crash...yes, we still have yet to watch Crash. Hey, at least this builds some anticipation, right? Well, let's get down to the monkey, we mean, ape business!
The Wife: I've never seen any of the other "Apes" movies, but the husband explained the plot of the original for me. I really do think Rise of the Planet of the Apes was a good film, even though the title is way too long. This movie could be viewed as a prequel to the original series or as a complete re-boot, however you want to see it. I do think it made enough money and set up potential for sequels. Overall, I did like this movie, but it was VERY hard to watch. I am a huge animal lover and absolutely fell in love with the Caesar character. Obviously, if you have a heart, you probably side with the apes in this film. I was very upset with the way they were treated and it was sad to see the relationship between Caesar and James Franco's character change. While I do believe Caesar still loved Franco, it was just flat out heart breaking. I had the same sick feeling watching this movie as I did when we saw Marley & Me a few years ago.
Acting wise, it was decent, even though I find it hard to believe Franco as a scientist. He is probably one of the hottest actors in Hollywood, but he just seems better suited to rolls in films like The Pineapple Express and as the awesome Harry Osborn. Third Rock From the Sun dad did a good job playing Franco's character's dad, who was suffering from dementia/alzheimer's. As for Draco Malfoy, I mean Tom Felton, I thought he did pretty good (this was the first film I've seen him in outside of the Harry Potter franchise). However, at times I felt like I was watching Draco because it seemed that Felton's British accent slipped through occasionally. I do love me some Draco Malfoy though, so all was forgiven! Girl from Slumdog Millionaire's character didn't add much to the film, but I think her character was used to show that Franco's character was moving on with his life.
Looks wise, some of the CGI seemed a bit too cartoonish, but it was still enjoyable, nonetheless. I don't know if I could stomach seeing this again because I just get so emotionally attached to the apes, but I would certainly recommend it. (I apologize for not using the characters' actual names.)
Hobo Dan: Rise of the Movie of the Stupid Name wasn't half bad. I freely admit I hated on this for many reasons. One of those reasons was the amazingly sour taste the last apes movie left in and around my mouth. Tim Burton and Marky Mark really screwed the pooch on that one. Another part of me is just sad Hollywood can't come up with new ideas and just has to keep reusing old franchises. It makes me sad. I can't hold that against this movie though. For what it is (either a reboot or a prequel; I can't tell) it is really good. There are several uneven places here and there. The acting is not the greatest, but the story works and you really feel for the poorly rendered CGI apes. I understand there are scenes in the film that require computer animation, but there are other times that don't. Caesar, the main ape, must be CGI'ed, so I guess to keep everything even they decided to animate them all.
What does this mean for the future of the apes? Well I will go into full on guns blazing revolt if they decide to remake the original Planet of the Apes. I say go the route of the most recent Star Trek movie and invent a new history of the planet. But here I am discussing the sequel for a film I whine and complained about being made in the first place; so I digress. Here is one good idea, a giant ape poo fight over control of their budding civilization. One can only hope.
The Wife: I've never seen any of the other "Apes" movies, but the husband explained the plot of the original for me. I really do think Rise of the Planet of the Apes was a good film, even though the title is way too long. This movie could be viewed as a prequel to the original series or as a complete re-boot, however you want to see it. I do think it made enough money and set up potential for sequels. Overall, I did like this movie, but it was VERY hard to watch. I am a huge animal lover and absolutely fell in love with the Caesar character. Obviously, if you have a heart, you probably side with the apes in this film. I was very upset with the way they were treated and it was sad to see the relationship between Caesar and James Franco's character change. While I do believe Caesar still loved Franco, it was just flat out heart breaking. I had the same sick feeling watching this movie as I did when we saw Marley & Me a few years ago.
Acting wise, it was decent, even though I find it hard to believe Franco as a scientist. He is probably one of the hottest actors in Hollywood, but he just seems better suited to rolls in films like The Pineapple Express and as the awesome Harry Osborn. Third Rock From the Sun dad did a good job playing Franco's character's dad, who was suffering from dementia/alzheimer's. As for Draco Malfoy, I mean Tom Felton, I thought he did pretty good (this was the first film I've seen him in outside of the Harry Potter franchise). However, at times I felt like I was watching Draco because it seemed that Felton's British accent slipped through occasionally. I do love me some Draco Malfoy though, so all was forgiven! Girl from Slumdog Millionaire's character didn't add much to the film, but I think her character was used to show that Franco's character was moving on with his life.
Looks wise, some of the CGI seemed a bit too cartoonish, but it was still enjoyable, nonetheless. I don't know if I could stomach seeing this again because I just get so emotionally attached to the apes, but I would certainly recommend it. (I apologize for not using the characters' actual names.)
Hobo Dan: Rise of the Movie of the Stupid Name wasn't half bad. I freely admit I hated on this for many reasons. One of those reasons was the amazingly sour taste the last apes movie left in and around my mouth. Tim Burton and Marky Mark really screwed the pooch on that one. Another part of me is just sad Hollywood can't come up with new ideas and just has to keep reusing old franchises. It makes me sad. I can't hold that against this movie though. For what it is (either a reboot or a prequel; I can't tell) it is really good. There are several uneven places here and there. The acting is not the greatest, but the story works and you really feel for the poorly rendered CGI apes. I understand there are scenes in the film that require computer animation, but there are other times that don't. Caesar, the main ape, must be CGI'ed, so I guess to keep everything even they decided to animate them all.
What does this mean for the future of the apes? Well I will go into full on guns blazing revolt if they decide to remake the original Planet of the Apes. I say go the route of the most recent Star Trek movie and invent a new history of the planet. But here I am discussing the sequel for a film I whine and complained about being made in the first place; so I digress. Here is one good idea, a giant ape poo fight over control of their budding civilization. One can only hope.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Fall 2011 TV Preview
Finally it's here! The Wife's Fall TV Preview!
Well with the start of September, it's almost time for the new television seasons! I can't wait for the return of my favorite shows, so in this post I will be doing my Fall TV preview. Most of the shows I will be discussing in detail are the ones I like, have watched or anticipate seeing. I will mainly be covering the major networks along with The CW. Don't expect any coverage on all of those CSI, Law and Order blah blah blah shows that I all seem the same to me!
Well, lets get started with what's going on with Fox. I will began by discussing my most anticipated show...I bet you will never guess it...or if you know me, you obviously know that it is going to be:
1. GLEE! The show that I have literally become obsessed with will be entering its third season this fall with the season premiere scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 20. Now let me just say the first season was AMAZING! I instantly fell in love with this show. It has all the elements: amazing characters, who I've grown attached to; comedy; drama; and as a music fan, all of the singing! That being said, the second season was a bit of a disappointment. I still love the show, but some of the magic was gone. I also felt that some of the character development that had been achieved in season one was forgotten. (For Glee fans, Um barely any mention of Quinn and the baby! Plus, no action for Puck and Quinn! grrr). Also, many of the episodes seemed to lack an overall plot and there were too many tribute episodes (I did like the Britney Spears tribute, however). The last few episodes of season two made up for the rest of the season though and kept me hooked and excited for season three. I know that Glee creator Ryan Murphy has said this season will follow more plot-driven episodes and rely less on guest stars, which is good, even though I'd love to see the return of Gwyneth Paltrow as Holly Holiday! I also hope they keep my Finchel (Finn and Rachel) together and have their drama be life after high school. There better not be another love triangle with Quinn again! I can't wait to see what's in store with Kurt and Blaine, and of course, I expect more comedic gold from my girl, Santana, Brittany and Sue Sylvester!
2. Fringe —Premieres Friday, Sept. 23. Sorry, I know nothing about this show!
3. Terra Nova, a new show to Fox. Premieres Monday, Sept. 26. This appears to be a science fiction drama, which is set in the year 2149, a time when life on planet earth is at the threat of extinction. I am slightly interested in this, so I will probably end up watching an episode online once it airs. It also has Jason O'Mara in it, who played Sam Tyler in my beloved Life on Mars show that ABC axed a few years ago (grrrr I am still a little bitter about that)!.
4. The other big Fox shows set to return are House (Monday, Oct. 3) and Bones (Thursday, Nov. 3). I used to LOVEEEE House but honestly haven't watched consistently since about the third or fourth season. When I realized Allison Cameron and House would never come together as a couple I got disinterested. Also, I feel that some of the plot declined. However, once House finishes I do intend to re-watch the series again from start to finish. I know that Bones is very popular, but I haven't seen a single episode so I can't offer commentary on this other than David Boreanaz, who I know from Buffy and Angel, is in it, and he is one fine piece of man.
Now let's talk about ABC!
1. Grey's Anatomy — Premiers Thursday, Sept. 22. Oh Grey's, how I used to LOVE you. Grey's was MY "IT" SHOW! I even had a no talking rule during Grey's. I was obsessed. Unfortunately, the writing and characters on the show have slowly gone downhill with each passing season. Grey's was the show I looked forward to all week. The finales used to be phenomenal and would suck me in for the next season. However, last season I found myself hardly able to focus on an episode and let's not forget the disastrous musical episode (I like Glee for my music!). That particular episode would have been great drama without the useless musical element. This season's Grey's finale was terrible and didn't feel like a Grey's finale at all! It did not leave me on the edge of my seat, but instead made me realize the show I had once loved was on it's way to being DUNZO! I mean why start more drama for Mer and Der? I would rather see them struggle as new parents or a couple trying to obtain a child. Oh and the lack of Lexie-Mark seriously annoys me. Really ever since Izzie and George left, this show lost its original spark. Don't get me wrong, I still intend to watch Grey's, but for the first time I will be watching The Office first. I will watch Grey's on the ABC player on my iPad.
2. Dancing With the Stars — Premieres Monday, Sept. 19. Love this show and guess who else enjoys it, yes, the husband! That being said, I am pretty disappointed with this season's cast. I knew it would be hard to beat last season with my Hines Ward, who won the mirror ball trophy! Some of the new contestants include soccer player, Hope Solo (awesome name!), Nancy Grace (really?), Kristin Cavallari, Chaz Bono, Ricki Lake, David Arquette and Robert Kardashian. The premise of the show is to use B list celebs and under as well as reality stars and people who are trying to revive their careers or desperately cling on to their 15 minutes of fame, but this cast really seems pretty weak. I do like that I can't really see a front runner at the moment, which I think made last season so great. I will of course watch and currently have decided to root for Hope Solo (unless her personality sucks) simply because of her name. I mean that's what my name would be if I married Han Solo, assuming he wasn't a fictional character! It will be interesting to see the audience's reaction to Chaz Bono. The majority of DWTS viewers are conservative so I wonder how long Chaz will last. I question his fame, but I do applaud his effort. He knew the heat he would get for going on the show and that takes guts. Plus, he is dancing with one of my favorite pro's, Lacey Schwimmer!
3. Private Practice — Premieres Thursday, Sept. 29. The Grey's spinoff that I watch on and off. This show gets really good and then really bad. This is why I've stopped watching on a regular basis. In fact, I have yet to see the finale from last season. I do like some of the characters (Charlotte and Cooper) but that is about it! This show would be better if they made Addison less of a train wreck and stopped with the old people sex scene montages at the start of each episode!
4. Castle — Premieres Monday, Sept. 19. Ok, a few of you may know this, but I absolutely refuse to watch this show even though I've been told I would like it. Why? Well it kicked off my beloved aforementioned Life on Mars show (and come on, it does seem predictable). This has now become a running joke between the husband and myself. Ever since Castle first aired I would decree "no one likes that show!" in anger of my canceled Life on Mars. Well apparently people do. I still refuse to watch though...
5. ABC has several other shows returning or starting...too many for me to name off. I will quickly mention Pan Am, a new series, which is scheduled to premiere Sunday, Sept. 25. I love shows set in that time period so I will give it a shot. And no, I am not mentioning Desperate Housewives because I can't stand that show!
Let's move on to NBC shall we?
1. The Office — Premieres, Thursday, Sept. 22. Can't wait to see more of my beloved Andy Bernard and hilarity from Dwight. It will be interesting to see life at Dunder-Mifflin without Michael Scott. I have to admit I am not thrilled with who has been selected to be the new boss. However, I am sure comedic gold will still ensue and I can't wait!
2. Sorry to say, but I really don't watch much of anything else on NBC. I have seen Parks and Recreation a hand full of times (premieres Thursday, Sept. 22), but not enough to discuss it. Other popular shows returning that I've never seen include 30 Rock (return date not announced) and Chuck (Friday, Oct. 21.)
Ok, now it's time for CBS!
1. Two and a Half Men — Premieres Monday, Sept. 19. The most talked about sitcom for months since the winning-ness of Charlie Sheen was axed from the show. Evidently, according to a spoiler, they will be killing Sheen off and having his funeral in the first episode. Ashton Kutcher, famous for being the purely awesome Kelso on That 70's Show, has signed on to replace Sheen. While I have only watched Two and a Half Men in syndication, I always found the show to be funny and I really want to see how they will handle Sheen's loss. I do think that Ashton can be good on the show, but let's face it, he is no Sheen. I guarantee he does not have tiger blood in his veins. Nor does he have one speed, one gear, GO!
2. How I Met Your Mother — Premieres Monday, Sept. 19. I recently have become hooked on this show. It almost comes close to Friends and Frasier in terms of sitcom awesomeness. Neil Patrick Harris is great and the cast as a whole is very entertaining.
3. Ok, so most of the other CBS shows are all those CSI-type shows I can't stand. So we are done with this network.
Finally, I've covered the major networks, but I must discuss The CW lineup! Yes, I still love the teen dramas. Get over it!
1. Gossip Girl — Premieres Monday, Sept. 26. My most anticipated show on The CW and show that I am most excited for next to Glee. Ever since season 2, I had only watched Gossip Girl online because it became horribly stale and they ruined one of my favorite couples, Blair and Chuck, due to crappy writing. However, after catching up with the show towards the end of last fall, I became hooked once again thanks to the awesome banter between Blair and Dan (or Dair, the deemed ship name). This brought a wonderful new element never before seen on Gossip Girl. I also secretly always liked the idea of Dan and Blair since season one, but I never thought it would happen! They finally kissed last season, but when the final string of episodes aired, it seemed that Dair was cast to the side in favor of a crappy prince story line and more overdone Blair-Chuck drama. *Yawn* I really don't think the writers new how popular Dair would become and how it would revive the show. The finale did leave us with hope for the ship, however, and managed to suck me in for season five. While I hate story lines like this, the "who's pregnant" cliffhanger does have me guessing (it better not be Blair!). Hopefully, Gossip Girl will bring us some Dair action finally and will continue with their "OMG" plots that we all love so much. You know you love me, XOXO. (Only Gossip Girl fans just got that and the husband who sometimes watches)!
2. 90210 — Premieres Tuesday, Sept. 13. I am a huge fan of the original Beverly Hills 90210. This new 90210 will never compare, but I must admit the drama sucks me in! The season ended with the core characters' graduation and with another pregnancy plotline — this one involving my favorite character, Naomi. (Seriously what is up with The CW and pregnancy plots?) I really hope Naomi stays with her nerdy boyfriend, Max, or reunites with Liam, who is currently taken by the annoying Annie. Also, it will be interesting to see what is in store for Adrianna, who went insane last season. I wonder if they will keep Silver and Navid as a couple too. I heard Teddy might not be on the show either, which sort of disappoints me. He had a great story arc last season.
3. The Vampire Diaries — Premieres Thursday, Sept. 15. So, I had written off this show, but recently caught some episodes, including last season's finale, and I must say, this show is AWESOME! Plus Boone from Lost is in it! Winning! I think I am going to try and catch up and tune in. I haven't even seen every episode and the finale managed to suck me in, so it should be good!
4. The CW has some new shows including Hart of Dixie, scheduled to premiere Monday, Sept. 26. The show stars Rachel Bilson, of The OC fame. (Am I the only one who seriously misses The OC...it was one of the BEST shows!). I will probably watch this just for Bilson. Hopefully it will be good. The Secret Circle, set to premiere Thursday, Sept. 15, looks halfway decent. Kevin Williamson, Dawson's Creek (another show I miss) creator is the executive producer. Other CW shows I won't mention because I honestly don't care about them. As for One Tree Hill, I don't think it premieres until spring 2012. I used to love One Tree Hill until the show became basically an unrealistic spinoff of its former self...however, I keep thinking each season will be its last and I watch all the finales. Oh well, it won't be returning this fall so we can cut that discussion short.
So there you go, my Fall 2011 TV Preview! I know this is long and it may seem like I watch too much TV, but I mainly watch my core shows on regular airtime and the others I catch online. Another show I must mention before I wrap this up is the Discovery Channel's Dual Survival. I am obsessed with this show and the comedic gold that Cody Lundin provides! I have no idea if new episodes will air this fall though. I hope you all are as excited for fall TV as I am. I know it doesn't compare to the winning power of Shark Week, however!
Well with the start of September, it's almost time for the new television seasons! I can't wait for the return of my favorite shows, so in this post I will be doing my Fall TV preview. Most of the shows I will be discussing in detail are the ones I like, have watched or anticipate seeing. I will mainly be covering the major networks along with The CW. Don't expect any coverage on all of those CSI, Law and Order blah blah blah shows that I all seem the same to me!
Well, lets get started with what's going on with Fox. I will began by discussing my most anticipated show...I bet you will never guess it...or if you know me, you obviously know that it is going to be:
1. GLEE! The show that I have literally become obsessed with will be entering its third season this fall with the season premiere scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 20. Now let me just say the first season was AMAZING! I instantly fell in love with this show. It has all the elements: amazing characters, who I've grown attached to; comedy; drama; and as a music fan, all of the singing! That being said, the second season was a bit of a disappointment. I still love the show, but some of the magic was gone. I also felt that some of the character development that had been achieved in season one was forgotten. (For Glee fans, Um barely any mention of Quinn and the baby! Plus, no action for Puck and Quinn! grrr). Also, many of the episodes seemed to lack an overall plot and there were too many tribute episodes (I did like the Britney Spears tribute, however). The last few episodes of season two made up for the rest of the season though and kept me hooked and excited for season three. I know that Glee creator Ryan Murphy has said this season will follow more plot-driven episodes and rely less on guest stars, which is good, even though I'd love to see the return of Gwyneth Paltrow as Holly Holiday! I also hope they keep my Finchel (Finn and Rachel) together and have their drama be life after high school. There better not be another love triangle with Quinn again! I can't wait to see what's in store with Kurt and Blaine, and of course, I expect more comedic gold from my girl, Santana, Brittany and Sue Sylvester!
2. Fringe —Premieres Friday, Sept. 23. Sorry, I know nothing about this show!
3. Terra Nova, a new show to Fox. Premieres Monday, Sept. 26. This appears to be a science fiction drama, which is set in the year 2149, a time when life on planet earth is at the threat of extinction. I am slightly interested in this, so I will probably end up watching an episode online once it airs. It also has Jason O'Mara in it, who played Sam Tyler in my beloved Life on Mars show that ABC axed a few years ago (grrrr I am still a little bitter about that)!.
4. The other big Fox shows set to return are House (Monday, Oct. 3) and Bones (Thursday, Nov. 3). I used to LOVEEEE House but honestly haven't watched consistently since about the third or fourth season. When I realized Allison Cameron and House would never come together as a couple I got disinterested. Also, I feel that some of the plot declined. However, once House finishes I do intend to re-watch the series again from start to finish. I know that Bones is very popular, but I haven't seen a single episode so I can't offer commentary on this other than David Boreanaz, who I know from Buffy and Angel, is in it, and he is one fine piece of man.
Now let's talk about ABC!
1. Grey's Anatomy — Premiers Thursday, Sept. 22. Oh Grey's, how I used to LOVE you. Grey's was MY "IT" SHOW! I even had a no talking rule during Grey's. I was obsessed. Unfortunately, the writing and characters on the show have slowly gone downhill with each passing season. Grey's was the show I looked forward to all week. The finales used to be phenomenal and would suck me in for the next season. However, last season I found myself hardly able to focus on an episode and let's not forget the disastrous musical episode (I like Glee for my music!). That particular episode would have been great drama without the useless musical element. This season's Grey's finale was terrible and didn't feel like a Grey's finale at all! It did not leave me on the edge of my seat, but instead made me realize the show I had once loved was on it's way to being DUNZO! I mean why start more drama for Mer and Der? I would rather see them struggle as new parents or a couple trying to obtain a child. Oh and the lack of Lexie-Mark seriously annoys me. Really ever since Izzie and George left, this show lost its original spark. Don't get me wrong, I still intend to watch Grey's, but for the first time I will be watching The Office first. I will watch Grey's on the ABC player on my iPad.
2. Dancing With the Stars — Premieres Monday, Sept. 19. Love this show and guess who else enjoys it, yes, the husband! That being said, I am pretty disappointed with this season's cast. I knew it would be hard to beat last season with my Hines Ward, who won the mirror ball trophy! Some of the new contestants include soccer player, Hope Solo (awesome name!), Nancy Grace (really?), Kristin Cavallari, Chaz Bono, Ricki Lake, David Arquette and Robert Kardashian. The premise of the show is to use B list celebs and under as well as reality stars and people who are trying to revive their careers or desperately cling on to their 15 minutes of fame, but this cast really seems pretty weak. I do like that I can't really see a front runner at the moment, which I think made last season so great. I will of course watch and currently have decided to root for Hope Solo (unless her personality sucks) simply because of her name. I mean that's what my name would be if I married Han Solo, assuming he wasn't a fictional character! It will be interesting to see the audience's reaction to Chaz Bono. The majority of DWTS viewers are conservative so I wonder how long Chaz will last. I question his fame, but I do applaud his effort. He knew the heat he would get for going on the show and that takes guts. Plus, he is dancing with one of my favorite pro's, Lacey Schwimmer!
3. Private Practice — Premieres Thursday, Sept. 29. The Grey's spinoff that I watch on and off. This show gets really good and then really bad. This is why I've stopped watching on a regular basis. In fact, I have yet to see the finale from last season. I do like some of the characters (Charlotte and Cooper) but that is about it! This show would be better if they made Addison less of a train wreck and stopped with the old people sex scene montages at the start of each episode!
4. Castle — Premieres Monday, Sept. 19. Ok, a few of you may know this, but I absolutely refuse to watch this show even though I've been told I would like it. Why? Well it kicked off my beloved aforementioned Life on Mars show (and come on, it does seem predictable). This has now become a running joke between the husband and myself. Ever since Castle first aired I would decree "no one likes that show!" in anger of my canceled Life on Mars. Well apparently people do. I still refuse to watch though...
5. ABC has several other shows returning or starting...too many for me to name off. I will quickly mention Pan Am, a new series, which is scheduled to premiere Sunday, Sept. 25. I love shows set in that time period so I will give it a shot. And no, I am not mentioning Desperate Housewives because I can't stand that show!
Let's move on to NBC shall we?
1. The Office — Premieres, Thursday, Sept. 22. Can't wait to see more of my beloved Andy Bernard and hilarity from Dwight. It will be interesting to see life at Dunder-Mifflin without Michael Scott. I have to admit I am not thrilled with who has been selected to be the new boss. However, I am sure comedic gold will still ensue and I can't wait!
2. Sorry to say, but I really don't watch much of anything else on NBC. I have seen Parks and Recreation a hand full of times (premieres Thursday, Sept. 22), but not enough to discuss it. Other popular shows returning that I've never seen include 30 Rock (return date not announced) and Chuck (Friday, Oct. 21.)
Ok, now it's time for CBS!
1. Two and a Half Men — Premieres Monday, Sept. 19. The most talked about sitcom for months since the winning-ness of Charlie Sheen was axed from the show. Evidently, according to a spoiler, they will be killing Sheen off and having his funeral in the first episode. Ashton Kutcher, famous for being the purely awesome Kelso on That 70's Show, has signed on to replace Sheen. While I have only watched Two and a Half Men in syndication, I always found the show to be funny and I really want to see how they will handle Sheen's loss. I do think that Ashton can be good on the show, but let's face it, he is no Sheen. I guarantee he does not have tiger blood in his veins. Nor does he have one speed, one gear, GO!
2. How I Met Your Mother — Premieres Monday, Sept. 19. I recently have become hooked on this show. It almost comes close to Friends and Frasier in terms of sitcom awesomeness. Neil Patrick Harris is great and the cast as a whole is very entertaining.
3. Ok, so most of the other CBS shows are all those CSI-type shows I can't stand. So we are done with this network.
Finally, I've covered the major networks, but I must discuss The CW lineup! Yes, I still love the teen dramas. Get over it!
1. Gossip Girl — Premieres Monday, Sept. 26. My most anticipated show on The CW and show that I am most excited for next to Glee. Ever since season 2, I had only watched Gossip Girl online because it became horribly stale and they ruined one of my favorite couples, Blair and Chuck, due to crappy writing. However, after catching up with the show towards the end of last fall, I became hooked once again thanks to the awesome banter between Blair and Dan (or Dair, the deemed ship name). This brought a wonderful new element never before seen on Gossip Girl. I also secretly always liked the idea of Dan and Blair since season one, but I never thought it would happen! They finally kissed last season, but when the final string of episodes aired, it seemed that Dair was cast to the side in favor of a crappy prince story line and more overdone Blair-Chuck drama. *Yawn* I really don't think the writers new how popular Dair would become and how it would revive the show. The finale did leave us with hope for the ship, however, and managed to suck me in for season five. While I hate story lines like this, the "who's pregnant" cliffhanger does have me guessing (it better not be Blair!). Hopefully, Gossip Girl will bring us some Dair action finally and will continue with their "OMG" plots that we all love so much. You know you love me, XOXO. (Only Gossip Girl fans just got that and the husband who sometimes watches)!
2. 90210 — Premieres Tuesday, Sept. 13. I am a huge fan of the original Beverly Hills 90210. This new 90210 will never compare, but I must admit the drama sucks me in! The season ended with the core characters' graduation and with another pregnancy plotline — this one involving my favorite character, Naomi. (Seriously what is up with The CW and pregnancy plots?) I really hope Naomi stays with her nerdy boyfriend, Max, or reunites with Liam, who is currently taken by the annoying Annie. Also, it will be interesting to see what is in store for Adrianna, who went insane last season. I wonder if they will keep Silver and Navid as a couple too. I heard Teddy might not be on the show either, which sort of disappoints me. He had a great story arc last season.
3. The Vampire Diaries — Premieres Thursday, Sept. 15. So, I had written off this show, but recently caught some episodes, including last season's finale, and I must say, this show is AWESOME! Plus Boone from Lost is in it! Winning! I think I am going to try and catch up and tune in. I haven't even seen every episode and the finale managed to suck me in, so it should be good!
4. The CW has some new shows including Hart of Dixie, scheduled to premiere Monday, Sept. 26. The show stars Rachel Bilson, of The OC fame. (Am I the only one who seriously misses The OC...it was one of the BEST shows!). I will probably watch this just for Bilson. Hopefully it will be good. The Secret Circle, set to premiere Thursday, Sept. 15, looks halfway decent. Kevin Williamson, Dawson's Creek (another show I miss) creator is the executive producer. Other CW shows I won't mention because I honestly don't care about them. As for One Tree Hill, I don't think it premieres until spring 2012. I used to love One Tree Hill until the show became basically an unrealistic spinoff of its former self...however, I keep thinking each season will be its last and I watch all the finales. Oh well, it won't be returning this fall so we can cut that discussion short.
So there you go, my Fall 2011 TV Preview! I know this is long and it may seem like I watch too much TV, but I mainly watch my core shows on regular airtime and the others I catch online. Another show I must mention before I wrap this up is the Discovery Channel's Dual Survival. I am obsessed with this show and the comedic gold that Cody Lundin provides! I have no idea if new episodes will air this fall though. I hope you all are as excited for fall TV as I am. I know it doesn't compare to the winning power of Shark Week, however!
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Look into my Crystal Balls
I made a prediction in last week’s post about our luck with traveling and waiters. I was right and wrong. First I said we would have terrible service. Correct. We arrived at the Red Lobster (it's Crab Fest!) in Charleston at 4 p.m. and had to wait 15 minutes on a Thursday! I’d say 90 percent of the tables were sitting empty. If I were Don Draper I’d have destroyed that weaselly little host. He didn’t look at me once; just kept staring at and talking to my wife. Cellophane, Mr. Cellophane… Anyways when we were seated we were informed by the on call manager that our server was busy with the party room, so he would be helping take care of us. He proceeded to pull out a note pad to take our drink order. I’ve never waited tables, but I’m pretty sure I could remember two drink orders for the 30 seconds it takes to walk back to the drink area. The manager also took our food order, which he got wrong, even though he wrote it down…
My second prediction was that we’d get a flat tire, because we always do. I had good reason to think it would happen. Look here and here for proof. Well, thankfully, I was wrong this time. We did run over something about three miles from home that made me think it had happened. If at that point the tire went flat, I would have jumped out of the car and pooped in the middle of the street to prove my psychosis. I’d have gladly gone to the loony bin and spent the rest of my days playing go fish in the corner with imaginary squirrels; never having to deal with cars or tires or waiters or people again. But the tire held and we made it home safe and sound. The ticking time bomb that is my sanity continues.
Seeing how I made three predictions and got two right; (66.68% accuracy) I’m thinking I’ll write my own book of predictions like Nostradamus. I’ll go with 100 predictions, which means around 66 of them will turn out right if my numbers hold up. I’m crossing my fingers that the discovery of the cholesterol free cow and the invention of the laundry folding machine come true. Seriously, we have a machine to wash our laundry. We have a machine to dry it. Why don’t we have a machine to fold it for us? I’m looking at you scientists, drop what you’re doing and get it done.
Here are a few other predictions I’d say are a pretty fair bets to come true:
-The stock market will go up.
-The stock market will go down.
-After the Stock crash of 2020, Bacon will be recognized as the new world currency.
-In the year 2021 pigs will become extinct.
-All wars will soon be fought via video games. South Korea becomes most powerful country in the world.
-Rocky 7 is released in 2015. The plot involves Rocky being cryogenically frozen in 2011. In 2045 evil aliens come to earth and challenge us to a boxing match for control of the planet. They enter into the contest a robot version of Hitler. Our only choice is to unfreeze Rocky and put him through a rigorous training scene before doing battle with the evil alien robot Hitler. He loses, setting up Rocky 8’s story line.
-Rocky 8 will become the third highest grossing film of all time behind Avatar 5 in HD3DSHi-Fi+ and Shark Night 3D.
-France surrenders to someone.
-Samuel L. Jackson is elected first President of the Mother $%#&ing World. His inaugural address is televised on a 30 second time delay. In the speech he outlines the plots of every movie he’s ever been in; it takes five days.
-Planking is outlawed after a group of American college students are mistaken for building materials while touring Europe.
-Owling is outlawed after a group of American college students are shot while touring Europe.
-American college students are banned from Europe, so they go to Aruba.
My second prediction was that we’d get a flat tire, because we always do. I had good reason to think it would happen. Look here and here for proof. Well, thankfully, I was wrong this time. We did run over something about three miles from home that made me think it had happened. If at that point the tire went flat, I would have jumped out of the car and pooped in the middle of the street to prove my psychosis. I’d have gladly gone to the loony bin and spent the rest of my days playing go fish in the corner with imaginary squirrels; never having to deal with cars or tires or waiters or people again. But the tire held and we made it home safe and sound. The ticking time bomb that is my sanity continues.
Seeing how I made three predictions and got two right; (66.68% accuracy) I’m thinking I’ll write my own book of predictions like Nostradamus. I’ll go with 100 predictions, which means around 66 of them will turn out right if my numbers hold up. I’m crossing my fingers that the discovery of the cholesterol free cow and the invention of the laundry folding machine come true. Seriously, we have a machine to wash our laundry. We have a machine to dry it. Why don’t we have a machine to fold it for us? I’m looking at you scientists, drop what you’re doing and get it done.
Here are a few other predictions I’d say are a pretty fair bets to come true:
-The stock market will go up.
-The stock market will go down.
-After the Stock crash of 2020, Bacon will be recognized as the new world currency.
-In the year 2021 pigs will become extinct.
-All wars will soon be fought via video games. South Korea becomes most powerful country in the world.
-Rocky 7 is released in 2015. The plot involves Rocky being cryogenically frozen in 2011. In 2045 evil aliens come to earth and challenge us to a boxing match for control of the planet. They enter into the contest a robot version of Hitler. Our only choice is to unfreeze Rocky and put him through a rigorous training scene before doing battle with the evil alien robot Hitler. He loses, setting up Rocky 8’s story line.
-Rocky 8 will become the third highest grossing film of all time behind Avatar 5 in HD3DSHi-Fi+ and Shark Night 3D.
-France surrenders to someone.
-Samuel L. Jackson is elected first President of the Mother $%#&ing World. His inaugural address is televised on a 30 second time delay. In the speech he outlines the plots of every movie he’s ever been in; it takes five days.
-Planking is outlawed after a group of American college students are mistaken for building materials while touring Europe.
-Owling is outlawed after a group of American college students are shot while touring Europe.
-American college students are banned from Europe, so they go to Aruba.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Glee: The 3D Concert Movie
The Wife has decided to share her thoughts on the new Glee movie. I didn't see this!
Glee: The 3D Concert Movie
Well this review will be interesting. I am sure a lot of this blog's target audience are "anti-gleek." Oh well! Sad for you, really. The husband asked me to review Glee: The 3D Concert Movie, which I saw over the weekend. (He also probably asked because we once again delayed watching Crash for our Best Picture Project...oops).
Ok so if you don't already know it, I am a HUGE Glee fan! While I am one of those many "The first season was so much better" fans, I still watch and enjoy the show. I love the witty banter, comedic elements and almost all of the characters. Not to mention the show provides some great eye candy. Of course, the music is one of my favorite parts of Glee! Almost every song I've purchased off iTunes over the past year has been from Glee, much to my husband's chagrin. I also own the complete first season. I will own the complete second season probably after Christmas. Speaking of Christmas, last year I got the Glee Christmas Album and it was pretty much all I listened to over the holidays (again much to my husband's dismay). So I am "that fan," yes, the one responsible for keeping the cash cow of Glee alive. Who cares though? I love the show and it makes me happy and helps to relieve stress. Some have their video games or other hobbies, I have Glee!
As for Glee: The 3D Concert Movie, I was super pumped when I found out about it. We saw a preview for the film prior to seeing one of our summer movies and the husband looked at me and said "You can take your friend to see this, right?" So my bestie, who is a huge Glee fan like myself, and I made plans to leave our guys at home and go. Needless to say we had an absolute blast! We both badly wanted to see Glee in concert this summer, but the tickets were way too expensive. The 3D movie was the next best thing! We sang and cheered during the film as if we were really at a concert...it was great! We probably had a better view than if we had actually gone to the real concert.
I know many reviews of the movie have been very negative and that the Glee3D movie hasn't done well at the box office. I can see why numbers are down. Most concert movies generally make money from kids and their parents. Glee is not a children's show, so there goes that money machine. As for content, I tend to disagree with the critics. What do people expect? The movie isn't meant to be plot-driven. IT IS A CONCERT! I feel like it's the cool thing to just hate on everything once something gets popular now days. People need to learn to relax and just enjoy something for what it is! Ok off of my soapbox, back to the review! I got chills when they performed their opening number to their trademark "Don't Stop Believin'" song. I also, of course, loved Puck's solo as well as Finn's solo. Any Rachel song was amazing (Lea Michele is just awesome, period). Kurt, as usual, didn't disappoint. The group numbers were great too. I especially LOVED The Warblers performance and the adorable "mini warbler!" ATTENTION: CUTENESS ALERT. There were some great surprises too (SPOILER AHEAD!) like when Gwyneth Paltrow (Holly Holiday) showed up to sing "Forget You." My bestie and I literally screamed out of joy. We are super cool people!
I suppose I should mention the use of 3D too. I know I have bashed 3D, but this is the first movie that I've ever seen in 3D where I actually noticed the effects. The 3D did add to the overall experience, but I would have been just as happy seeing Glee in good ole' 2D.
My complaints are very short. For one, it was too short! Then again, I could have watched for like six hours to hear them perform every song I like. I feel like the whole "Glee changed my life" scenes from real people that were dispersed throughout the movie were unnecessary. I would have preferred to see more onstage/backstage banter and more singing in its place. There also wasn't enough Tina or Quinn. In addition, an appearance by Mr. Shue and obviously SUE SYLVESTER would have been nice! From my understanding, Sue did have scenes in the film that were cut. Hopefully they will be on the Blu-ray version.
As a whole though, I was very pleased with Glee: The 3D Concert Movie. If you love Glee and like me, couldn't afford to see the actual concert, I would recommend this. Don't go in expecting a real movie with a plot. View it as a concert, which it obviously is. Also, if you can, try to see it as a matinee. I believe I paid $8.70 or something, but would have been charged around $11 if I saw an evening show. I think the movie isn't in theatres much longer, however, but I am sure it will come out on Blu-ray/DVD. All in all I am now very excited for Glee Season 3!
Before I end, I should mention that the husband does watch Glee on occasion with me. I even catch him laughing sometimes...so don't let him fool you. I think he likes it a little bit ;)! I will leave you with this! Look for him in Glee: The 3D Concert Movie:
Glee: The 3D Concert Movie
Well this review will be interesting. I am sure a lot of this blog's target audience are "anti-gleek." Oh well! Sad for you, really. The husband asked me to review Glee: The 3D Concert Movie, which I saw over the weekend. (He also probably asked because we once again delayed watching Crash for our Best Picture Project...oops).
Ok so if you don't already know it, I am a HUGE Glee fan! While I am one of those many "The first season was so much better" fans, I still watch and enjoy the show. I love the witty banter, comedic elements and almost all of the characters. Not to mention the show provides some great eye candy. Of course, the music is one of my favorite parts of Glee! Almost every song I've purchased off iTunes over the past year has been from Glee, much to my husband's chagrin. I also own the complete first season. I will own the complete second season probably after Christmas. Speaking of Christmas, last year I got the Glee Christmas Album and it was pretty much all I listened to over the holidays (again much to my husband's dismay). So I am "that fan," yes, the one responsible for keeping the cash cow of Glee alive. Who cares though? I love the show and it makes me happy and helps to relieve stress. Some have their video games or other hobbies, I have Glee!
As for Glee: The 3D Concert Movie, I was super pumped when I found out about it. We saw a preview for the film prior to seeing one of our summer movies and the husband looked at me and said "You can take your friend to see this, right?" So my bestie, who is a huge Glee fan like myself, and I made plans to leave our guys at home and go. Needless to say we had an absolute blast! We both badly wanted to see Glee in concert this summer, but the tickets were way too expensive. The 3D movie was the next best thing! We sang and cheered during the film as if we were really at a concert...it was great! We probably had a better view than if we had actually gone to the real concert.
I know many reviews of the movie have been very negative and that the Glee3D movie hasn't done well at the box office. I can see why numbers are down. Most concert movies generally make money from kids and their parents. Glee is not a children's show, so there goes that money machine. As for content, I tend to disagree with the critics. What do people expect? The movie isn't meant to be plot-driven. IT IS A CONCERT! I feel like it's the cool thing to just hate on everything once something gets popular now days. People need to learn to relax and just enjoy something for what it is! Ok off of my soapbox, back to the review! I got chills when they performed their opening number to their trademark "Don't Stop Believin'" song. I also, of course, loved Puck's solo as well as Finn's solo. Any Rachel song was amazing (Lea Michele is just awesome, period). Kurt, as usual, didn't disappoint. The group numbers were great too. I especially LOVED The Warblers performance and the adorable "mini warbler!" ATTENTION: CUTENESS ALERT. There were some great surprises too (SPOILER AHEAD!) like when Gwyneth Paltrow (Holly Holiday) showed up to sing "Forget You." My bestie and I literally screamed out of joy. We are super cool people!
I suppose I should mention the use of 3D too. I know I have bashed 3D, but this is the first movie that I've ever seen in 3D where I actually noticed the effects. The 3D did add to the overall experience, but I would have been just as happy seeing Glee in good ole' 2D.
My complaints are very short. For one, it was too short! Then again, I could have watched for like six hours to hear them perform every song I like. I feel like the whole "Glee changed my life" scenes from real people that were dispersed throughout the movie were unnecessary. I would have preferred to see more onstage/backstage banter and more singing in its place. There also wasn't enough Tina or Quinn. In addition, an appearance by Mr. Shue and obviously SUE SYLVESTER would have been nice! From my understanding, Sue did have scenes in the film that were cut. Hopefully they will be on the Blu-ray version.
As a whole though, I was very pleased with Glee: The 3D Concert Movie. If you love Glee and like me, couldn't afford to see the actual concert, I would recommend this. Don't go in expecting a real movie with a plot. View it as a concert, which it obviously is. Also, if you can, try to see it as a matinee. I believe I paid $8.70 or something, but would have been charged around $11 if I saw an evening show. I think the movie isn't in theatres much longer, however, but I am sure it will come out on Blu-ray/DVD. All in all I am now very excited for Glee Season 3!
Before I end, I should mention that the husband does watch Glee on occasion with me. I even catch him laughing sometimes...so don't let him fool you. I think he likes it a little bit ;)! I will leave you with this! Look for him in Glee: The 3D Concert Movie:
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