Thanks to my almost sister-in-law Kristin, I know OWN a copy of Once More, With Feeling on CD. I have had it saved on my Tivo for a couple of years, so I could turn it on and dance/sing along. Often, I use it for entertainment while cleaning my living room and kitchen.
So, in honor of that, I am choosing this song for my Song of the Week. I picked Walk Through the Fire because it is a great piece for the full cast/company. But I have several I really like! See below.
Walk Through the Fire, Once More, With Feeling (Buffy the Vampire Slayer)
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
American Idol - Top 5 Performances
Good news: Tonight starts the episodes where the contestants perform two songs per night. Bad news: It is Neil Diamond night. The fact that Neil's
Jason Castro sang Forever in Blue Jeans. I liked it. He has a shtick and it really works. Even when the judges haven't loved him, I have thought he was consistent. It seemed a tad more upbeat than some of the songs he has sung of late.
September Morn was Jason's second song. It was romantic, and I kind of dug it! He stays true to his own style and never compromises. As usual, the judges hate it.
David Cook sang I'm Alive. And it was fast and pretty rock-y. I liked it. I don't know the original so I couldn't tell you if he changed up the arrangement, or if it just sounded less Neil Diamond-y since he has a rugged rocker voice. Love him.
All I Really Need is You was David's second song. Loved loved loved it. I don't need to say anything else (except I love his falsetto!).
Brooke White sang I'm a Believer. And, yea, she is back behind her much-needed crutch of an instrument. It helps to detract from her awkwardness. And since she is playing with the band, she should be able to stay on a more steady beat (rather than letting her nerves speed it up). It was fun but nothing amazing. She is better on slower, more emotional songs.
I Am...I Said was Brooke's second song. I feel she is best behind the piano. I loved that performance. The judges liked it, too.
David Archuleta sang Sweet Carolina. What do you know? He is not singing an "inspirational" song this week. In fact, I think he is singing a LOVE song. It was OK. A little weak. But weak for David is still pretty darn good. At this point in the game, I think his song choice coach (aka probably his dad) should recommend a non-cheese song for strategy purposes, and I feel he did that tonight.
America was David's second song. I spoke too song. This is his cheese-tastic song of the week. I actually know this song, at least. He sang it fine, but I guess I am just over him a bit... Sorry, David fans.
Syesha Mercado sang Hello Again. Not a surprise she chose this one. But I am kind of liking it. Her emotional connection has improved. She is still my least favorite, though...
Thank the Lord for the Nighttime was Syesha's second song. It was fun. I feel pretty good about her making final 5 (contestants, not Cylons...), because even though I am not a huge fan, she is pretty good. I think it IS her time to go, though.
Second round was better than the first!
My fave:
David Cook
Bottom 2:
Brooke & Syesha
Going home:
Syesha
Jason Castro sang Forever in Blue Jeans. I liked it. He has a shtick and it really works. Even when the judges haven't loved him, I have thought he was consistent. It seemed a tad more upbeat than some of the songs he has sung of late.
September Morn was Jason's second song. It was romantic, and I kind of dug it! He stays true to his own style and never compromises. As usual, the judges hate it.
David Cook sang I'm Alive. And it was fast and pretty rock-y. I liked it. I don't know the original so I couldn't tell you if he changed up the arrangement, or if it just sounded less Neil Diamond-y since he has a rugged rocker voice. Love him.
All I Really Need is You was David's second song. Loved loved loved it. I don't need to say anything else (except I love his falsetto!).
Brooke White sang I'm a Believer. And, yea, she is back behind her much-needed crutch of an instrument. It helps to detract from her awkwardness. And since she is playing with the band, she should be able to stay on a more steady beat (rather than letting her nerves speed it up). It was fun but nothing amazing. She is better on slower, more emotional songs.
I Am...I Said was Brooke's second song. I feel she is best behind the piano. I loved that performance. The judges liked it, too.
David Archuleta sang Sweet Carolina. What do you know? He is not singing an "inspirational" song this week. In fact, I think he is singing a LOVE song. It was OK. A little weak. But weak for David is still pretty darn good. At this point in the game, I think his song choice coach (aka probably his dad) should recommend a non-cheese song for strategy purposes, and I feel he did that tonight.
America was David's second song. I spoke too song. This is his cheese-tastic song of the week. I actually know this song, at least. He sang it fine, but I guess I am just over him a bit... Sorry, David fans.
Syesha Mercado sang Hello Again. Not a surprise she chose this one. But I am kind of liking it. Her emotional connection has improved. She is still my least favorite, though...
Thank the Lord for the Nighttime was Syesha's second song. It was fun. I feel pretty good about her making final 5 (contestants, not Cylons...), because even though I am not a huge fan, she is pretty good. I think it IS her time to go, though.
Second round was better than the first!
My fave:
David Cook
Bottom 2:
Brooke & Syesha
Going home:
Syesha
Movie: Reservation Road
I knew this one would be sad. The premise is that Dwight (Mark Ruffalo) kills Ethan's (Joaquin Pheonix) son in a hit-and-run, and the viewer gets to watch the deterioration of both men, as they deal with internal consequences. On top of that, Ethan hires attorney Dwight to help him find the killer. What a mess.
I am a huge fan of both Joaquine Phoenix & Mark Ruffalo. This was some tough subject matter and the both attacked it with abandon. I can't imagine how difficult portraying someone in their emotional states would be. And I have a tough time seeing grown men cry. It really gets me. So, you can guess there was lots of crying.
In supporting roles are Jennifer Connelly (she is an outstanding actress), Mira Sorvino, and Elle Fanning. Those Fanning girls have acting in their blood. Elle was really good, and for such a young girl, really knows how to show emotion appropriate to the scene. She was really good.
So this movie was good, but MAJORLY depressing. I wouldn't really recommend it to someone who has a child. It would be too hard to watch.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Battlestar Galactica, Escape Velocity
I have struggled with what I wanted to write about this episode. It is hard for BSG to come on Friday after an episode like Lost's "The Shape of Things to Come", which was so full of story, you had to watch it a couple of times just to remember everything that happened. An episode like that makes it hard to have these filler/plot-advancing episodes that BSG is known for. They aren't poorly written or acted, it is just that we get spoiled on action-packed, question-answering episodes. So having said that, I didn't dislike this episode, I just never figured out what actually was really happening. Here are my thoughts:
Poor Tigh - In trying to come to grips for killing his wife for being a traitor (for Tigh's sake no less), he finds himself obsessing over the captive Six and trying to get into her brain. (How does she not figure out he is a Cylon?) She states that, yes, she does FEEL the pain of the countless deaths she has caused, and the pain is what gives her knowledge and understanding. Then she gives this "gift" to Tigh by beating the crap out of his face, but realizes his need is not pain, but what I am guessing is love, which leads her to kiss his bloody one-eyed face.
Poor Tyrol - He believes himself responsible for Callie's death because she thought they were having an affair. In a roundabout way, he is responsible, but only because she overheard their Cylon conversation (or else she wouldn't have been in that darn airlock in the first place...). But then he says those awful things to the Admiral about her and gets himself demoted. Did he mean them? Does she really smell like cabbage? Did he really settle for her and truly still love Boomer? Is he just talking crazy out of devastation and sadness?
Not so poor Tori- She just gets on my nerves. I don't like her!
Poor Roslin - She is dying of cancer and has officially lost enough hair to resort to a wig. Sean pointed out that she used a hair straightener, which I thought was funny. It was clear it was because she had to have different "hair" to show the progress of her cancer. I liked her conversation with Baltar and how she is seemingly more concerned for the fate of the fleet than for her own life/death.
Poor Gaius? - Baltar is really starting to deserve his cult following. He is starting to preach and get some real attention. From woman-beating, anti-Gaius soldiers of some sort. He even was willing (or forced by Six) to get his face beat in while preaching to the people. And while Lee will protect Baltar's freedoms, he still thinks he is a nut.
The best part of Friday's episode was the preview of next week and the appearance of Leoban on Starbuck's ship.
Poor Tigh - In trying to come to grips for killing his wife for being a traitor (for Tigh's sake no less), he finds himself obsessing over the captive Six and trying to get into her brain. (How does she not figure out he is a Cylon?) She states that, yes, she does FEEL the pain of the countless deaths she has caused, and the pain is what gives her knowledge and understanding. Then she gives this "gift" to Tigh by beating the crap out of his face, but realizes his need is not pain, but what I am guessing is love, which leads her to kiss his bloody one-eyed face.
Poor Tyrol - He believes himself responsible for Callie's death because she thought they were having an affair. In a roundabout way, he is responsible, but only because she overheard their Cylon conversation (or else she wouldn't have been in that darn airlock in the first place...). But then he says those awful things to the Admiral about her and gets himself demoted. Did he mean them? Does she really smell like cabbage? Did he really settle for her and truly still love Boomer? Is he just talking crazy out of devastation and sadness?
Not so poor Tori- She just gets on my nerves. I don't like her!
Poor Roslin - She is dying of cancer and has officially lost enough hair to resort to a wig. Sean pointed out that she used a hair straightener, which I thought was funny. It was clear it was because she had to have different "hair" to show the progress of her cancer. I liked her conversation with Baltar and how she is seemingly more concerned for the fate of the fleet than for her own life/death.
Poor Gaius? - Baltar is really starting to deserve his cult following. He is starting to preach and get some real attention. From woman-beating, anti-Gaius soldiers of some sort. He even was willing (or forced by Six) to get his face beat in while preaching to the people. And while Lee will protect Baltar's freedoms, he still thinks he is a nut.
The best part of Friday's episode was the preview of next week and the appearance of Leoban on Starbuck's ship.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Holy Cannoli! aka LOST: The Shape of Things to Come
I can not even gather my thoughts enough to write a post about tonight's episode of LOST. But let it be said that tonight's episode was unbelievably fantastic. At this point, I feel pity for those that decided to "give up" on Lost last season. Fools! Sean fake-slapped me about 20 times after that episode (which only makes sense if you know him very well). Alright let me see if I can divide this up into sub-categories.
This was a Ben episode, and his have proved very entertaining/educating in the past. The very beginning of his flash forward is him waking up (or what I thought looked a lot like "landing") in the Sahara. Wearing a parka. Interesting that situated right in the Sahara Desert is Tunisia, where Charlotte discovered the polar bear. Also, Ben is dressed for cold weather, probably coming from a place where a polar bear might live. And, a place where a couple of guys that know Penny might have been hunting for a signal a couple of seasons ago. Interesting. Either way, we know Ben is "traveling" off the island, and now my guess is that he can do some sort of "jump" between Dharma locations. In addition, what is the cut on his arm? The writers wanted us to see that, so why?
The least important issue that happened in this episode was that the boat's doctor's dead body washed ashore, sporting a freshly slit throat. But in communication with the boat, they say the doctor is fine. Hmmm... I don't even know what that means. Not to say this is unimportant, but for all the information we got in this episode, this seemed the least critical.
Seriously, how can Jack continue this fake affair with Juliet when Kate is there, flirting with him and staring at him longingly. I guess we'll see a little more of what happens next week when Jack apparently deals with a burst appendix. Sean totally guessed it just from the hand on the side (since he had his appendix out a few years back).
I didn't even have time to be happy about Sayid having found Nadia and marrying her, because we found out she was dead at that same moment. And, boy, Ben sure did manipulate him into working for him. He is good! But now we know how that came about.
For once, I didn't know before I saw this episode that there would be a death. I have to say, being spoiler-free was great! But it made Alex's death that much more awful. For a split second, I thought she might die, but then I told myself, "No, that would just be wrong." But the writers weren't afraid to go there and certainly adds a new dimension to Ben's storyline and personality. It also adds to the "This is war!" mentality he already displayed. So much so, that Ben makes a call to Mr. Smokey to come save the day. I guess he is a good ally.
What is the game that Widmore and Ben have agreed to? Literally, it looks as though they are bent on winning, and have a set of (possibly unspoken) rules. And the prize? The island, it seems. But Widmore has broken the rules. Come on, I didn't believe for a second that he only considered Alex to be a pawn in the grand plans. If he was so capable of using people and unable/willing to have a relationship, he wouldn't have his Juliet obsession. He wants love like the rest of us. He just wants some other crazy things that I don't get.
I find myself rooting for Ben at times and then shaming myself for it. First off, Michael Emerson is so amazing in this role, that I want to like him. But also, it is like on Survivor, when a contestant you hate pulls off a big swing in the votes and someone you didn't expect goes home. You are so impressed at the tactics that you just have to give him credit!
Song of the Week
This week I am picking a song I downloaded a few years ago onto Sean's computer and haven't seen it for a long while. I added it back to my ipod a few weeks back and have had it in my "Good songs right now" playlist. I am a big fan of the band Keane from their first album out a few years ago. I saw them in concert (thanks to Julie who bought us the tickets as a gift)during their Hopes and Fears tour, and I just have to say, you can not fully apprecaite this band if you havent seen them live.
Keane is a band made up solely of a singer (Tom), pianist (Tim), and Richard (drummer). The band doesn't use a guitar and the sound is mellow but not boring.
With their second album, Under the Iron Sea, they tried to capture some of the feel of their live show and put it into their studio recordings. It was okay. It couldn't compare with Hopes and Fears, and after all, I found I only really loved a few songs on it.
But after I was hooked, I found this song online and it was SO good, I couldn't pass it up. Give it a listen!
With or Without You, by Keane
Keane is a band made up solely of a singer (Tom), pianist (Tim), and Richard (drummer). The band doesn't use a guitar and the sound is mellow but not boring.
With their second album, Under the Iron Sea, they tried to capture some of the feel of their live show and put it into their studio recordings. It was okay. It couldn't compare with Hopes and Fears, and after all, I found I only really loved a few songs on it.
But after I was hooked, I found this song online and it was SO good, I couldn't pass it up. Give it a listen!
With or Without You, by Keane
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Fare Thee Well, Carly
I am sad to see Carly say goodbye tonight. I feel like she should have made the top 4. However, I am sure she will find success on her own.
This week, there was a bottom 2 instead of bottom 3. So my guess was moot anyway, but I hadn't thought Carly would even be in the bottom 3, let alone bottom 2 or going home. So along with Carly, Syesha was in the bottom 2. And everyone was shocked that the second spot wasn't Jason or Brooke.
Ah well, I keep saying that at this point, anyone could be voted off without it being too much of shock. But I love Carly. I am sure we'll see her again!
This week, there was a bottom 2 instead of bottom 3. So my guess was moot anyway, but I hadn't thought Carly would even be in the bottom 3, let alone bottom 2 or going home. So along with Carly, Syesha was in the bottom 2. And everyone was shocked that the second spot wasn't Jason or Brooke.
Ah well, I keep saying that at this point, anyone could be voted off without it being too much of shock. But I love Carly. I am sure we'll see her again!
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Dancing with the Stars - Results Show
I didn't blog about last night's episode. I am not staying too into it. Maybe I need a couple more weeks to keep me interested. I'm not giving up the show yet, just the blogging about it.
The group dance. It was a mess!! Funny, but awful...
Riverdance. I love it! It is so fun to watch. It reminded me of Legally Blonde the Musical. That is one of my favorite parts!
The Lost preview. I can't wait for the show to start back on Thursday. No, that isn't related, but I just saw the preview for it.
The kid dancers. I have really enjoyed it. I mean these people seem very strange, but I enjoy seeing them dance.
The bottom two couples:
Marlee & Fabian
Mario & Karina
Tonight we say goodbye to Marlee & Fabian. Goodbye and good luck!
The group dance. It was a mess!! Funny, but awful...
Riverdance. I love it! It is so fun to watch. It reminded me of Legally Blonde the Musical. That is one of my favorite parts!
The Lost preview. I can't wait for the show to start back on Thursday. No, that isn't related, but I just saw the preview for it.
The kid dancers. I have really enjoyed it. I mean these people seem very strange, but I enjoy seeing them dance.
The bottom two couples:
Marlee & Fabian
Mario & Karina
Tonight we say goodbye to Marlee & Fabian. Goodbye and good luck!
American Idol - Top 6
Tonight, Emily and I watched the Top 6 performances of Andrew Lloyd Webber music. Here are my thoughts:
Loved:
David Cook - I was nervous that he decided to sing Music of the Night and to sing it straight the way it was written. But I decided that it was a smart move. He showed he can sing anything. And he was STILL my favorite of the night. But if I have to hear Randy say, "I've said it before; I'll say it again. If you can sing, you can sing anything" I am going to lose it!
Carly Smithson - This was really good. I was glad ALW convinced her to sing Jesus Christ Superstar instead of All I Ask of You. It was a much better use of her voice. I thought it was her best performance in weeks.
OK:
Jason Castro - I was seriously hoping no one would choose to sing Memories. It is just to cheesy. But I didn't hate this performance like the judges did. I kind of enjoyed it actually.
Brooke White - Contrary to what Paula said, I felt like it was over-acted. But then again, that might just be how Brooke is (awkward...). I really like You Must Love Me from Evita and was glad to hear someone was singing it. It was pretty good.
David Archuleta - At first I was nervous to hear he was singing Think of Me. This started out well. I thought the guitar and singing started out very nicely. I thought it sounded like More Than Words. But then it just got cheesed up. It wasn't bad, but I was disappointed that for once he didn't sound as cheesy as usual, only to be turned into "the usual."
Syesha Mercado - She sang One Rock and Roll Too Many from Starlight Express. I actually really liked this performance. But she is still just my least favorite.
Bottom Three:
Syesha Mercardo
Brooke White
Hmmm... I can't decided if I would put Carly here or Jason. I am going to guess Carly.
Going home:
Syesha? I hope so.
Let's face it. There aren't any lousy singers left that we are all dying to see gone. This show is getting good!
Loved:
David Cook - I was nervous that he decided to sing Music of the Night and to sing it straight the way it was written. But I decided that it was a smart move. He showed he can sing anything. And he was STILL my favorite of the night. But if I have to hear Randy say, "I've said it before; I'll say it again. If you can sing, you can sing anything" I am going to lose it!
Carly Smithson - This was really good. I was glad ALW convinced her to sing Jesus Christ Superstar instead of All I Ask of You. It was a much better use of her voice. I thought it was her best performance in weeks.
OK:
Jason Castro - I was seriously hoping no one would choose to sing Memories. It is just to cheesy. But I didn't hate this performance like the judges did. I kind of enjoyed it actually.
Brooke White - Contrary to what Paula said, I felt like it was over-acted. But then again, that might just be how Brooke is (awkward...). I really like You Must Love Me from Evita and was glad to hear someone was singing it. It was pretty good.
David Archuleta - At first I was nervous to hear he was singing Think of Me. This started out well. I thought the guitar and singing started out very nicely. I thought it sounded like More Than Words. But then it just got cheesed up. It wasn't bad, but I was disappointed that for once he didn't sound as cheesy as usual, only to be turned into "the usual."
Syesha Mercado - She sang One Rock and Roll Too Many from Starlight Express. I actually really liked this performance. But she is still just my least favorite.
Bottom Three:
Syesha Mercardo
Brooke White
Hmmm... I can't decided if I would put Carly here or Jason. I am going to guess Carly.
Going home:
Syesha? I hope so.
Let's face it. There aren't any lousy singers left that we are all dying to see gone. This show is getting good!
Monday, April 21, 2008
Movie: There Will Be Blood
Watching There Will Be Blood tonight completes my attempt to watch all five movies nominated for the Best Picture Academy Award this year. I don't remember a year when I actually did that.
Anyway, let's get to the movie. I am having a hard time figuring out how I felt about it. I'll start with what I liked.
1) Daniel Day Lewis as Daniel Plainview. The man can do no wrong, and in every movie, I forget he is the actor. How is this the same man who played in Last of the Mohicans? And more recently I watched him in A Room with A View, where, again, you can't even imagine it is the same actor. I can see a little of Bill the Butcher in him, since they are both greasy, hairy, slightly crazy, greedy, and power-hungry.
2) The setting. I enjoyed the small country town setting, where the church is central, but the town is so poor they don't have bread to eat (due to the dry climate, they can't grow anything to make bread). They are desperate, so they let this oil-man invade their town (and by the end, we see how it affects some of the citizens).
3) H.W. Plainview, Daniel's son. His was really the sad story in all this, and you find your self rooting for him (mainly by default, since there aren't many likable characters in the story).
4) Paul Dano as Eli Sunday. Alright, I have to admit that I kept thinking of The Girl Next Door because I watched it a couple of weeks ago. He was good in Little Miss Sunshine, but he was still a kid. I was impressed at his taking on this seemingly very difficult and very adult role, and pulling it off quite well. His performance as the preacher really creeped me out.
Now, I am not sure what I think of these things:
1) The ending. I won't say anything about it. I had heard some complaints about the ending before I watched it. Here is the deal: I don't know if I got it. Or maybe there isn't anything to get? I prefer stories with more redemptive endings, I guess.
2) The adaptation. I didn't realize this was so loosely adapted from the book (Oil! by Upton Sinclair). I almost don't feel like it should have been considered for Best Adapted Screenplay. I haven't read the book Oil! but I wanted to read it after viewing the movie, only to discover (by others' comments and synopses) that it isn't really the same story. Not to say that I have a problem with the VERY loose adaptation, it just means that I can't read the book for clarification on the story.
All that being said, I enjoyed watching it, but don't know if I love the story. The directing, acting, cinematography, etc. were spectacular. If not for the story, check it out for these many other reasons.
Anyway, let's get to the movie. I am having a hard time figuring out how I felt about it. I'll start with what I liked.
1) Daniel Day Lewis as Daniel Plainview. The man can do no wrong, and in every movie, I forget he is the actor. How is this the same man who played in Last of the Mohicans? And more recently I watched him in A Room with A View, where, again, you can't even imagine it is the same actor. I can see a little of Bill the Butcher in him, since they are both greasy, hairy, slightly crazy, greedy, and power-hungry.
2) The setting. I enjoyed the small country town setting, where the church is central, but the town is so poor they don't have bread to eat (due to the dry climate, they can't grow anything to make bread). They are desperate, so they let this oil-man invade their town (and by the end, we see how it affects some of the citizens).
3) H.W. Plainview, Daniel's son. His was really the sad story in all this, and you find your self rooting for him (mainly by default, since there aren't many likable characters in the story).
4) Paul Dano as Eli Sunday. Alright, I have to admit that I kept thinking of The Girl Next Door because I watched it a couple of weeks ago. He was good in Little Miss Sunshine, but he was still a kid. I was impressed at his taking on this seemingly very difficult and very adult role, and pulling it off quite well. His performance as the preacher really creeped me out.
Now, I am not sure what I think of these things:
1) The ending. I won't say anything about it. I had heard some complaints about the ending before I watched it. Here is the deal: I don't know if I got it. Or maybe there isn't anything to get? I prefer stories with more redemptive endings, I guess.
2) The adaptation. I didn't realize this was so loosely adapted from the book (Oil! by Upton Sinclair). I almost don't feel like it should have been considered for Best Adapted Screenplay. I haven't read the book Oil! but I wanted to read it after viewing the movie, only to discover (by others' comments and synopses) that it isn't really the same story. Not to say that I have a problem with the VERY loose adaptation, it just means that I can't read the book for clarification on the story.
All that being said, I enjoyed watching it, but don't know if I love the story. The directing, acting, cinematography, etc. were spectacular. If not for the story, check it out for these many other reasons.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
BSG - "The Ties that Bind"
Thoughts on this week's Battlestar Galactica:
Lee - He didn't waste any time getting down and dirty now that he is a politician. Interesting how Zarek is going to use him against Roslin (or is he?).
Cavil - Oh he is sneaky. How did old Six fall for that? I knew something fishy was up. He was way to agreeable to their plan. I have to say, it was a pretty smart move, but I was rooting for the "good" Cylons to figure a way out...
Callie - Well, Callie, wife of Cylon Tyrol, mother of hybrid Nicky, has lost it. Completely lost it. Not that I blame her, but to be prepared to kill herself and Nicky? I guess Ducky didn't get his wish... Of the Final Four revealed, I have been most offended at Tyrol being a Cylon, because of his relationship with Callie and the fact that he has a son. He better be pretty upset with the way this is turning out.
Tory - What is with her now? Is she embracing her Cylon-hood, or trying to escape it? Why has she decided to use her sexuality to manipulate everyone, human (Baltar) and Cylon (Tyrol) alike? Either way, she is really starting to act like a Cylon, and I mean the Cavil kind, not the Sixes!
The ending - I knew it was coming but I still didn't think she would really die! I thought it was very sad, and really sets some things in motion.
Sorry this is so poorly written. I was in a hurry. But I think I got all my thoughts across.
Lee - He didn't waste any time getting down and dirty now that he is a politician. Interesting how Zarek is going to use him against Roslin (or is he?).
Cavil - Oh he is sneaky. How did old Six fall for that? I knew something fishy was up. He was way to agreeable to their plan. I have to say, it was a pretty smart move, but I was rooting for the "good" Cylons to figure a way out...
Callie - Well, Callie, wife of Cylon Tyrol, mother of hybrid Nicky, has lost it. Completely lost it. Not that I blame her, but to be prepared to kill herself and Nicky? I guess Ducky didn't get his wish... Of the Final Four revealed, I have been most offended at Tyrol being a Cylon, because of his relationship with Callie and the fact that he has a son. He better be pretty upset with the way this is turning out.
Tory - What is with her now? Is she embracing her Cylon-hood, or trying to escape it? Why has she decided to use her sexuality to manipulate everyone, human (Baltar) and Cylon (Tyrol) alike? Either way, she is really starting to act like a Cylon, and I mean the Cavil kind, not the Sixes!
The ending - I knew it was coming but I still didn't think she would really die! I thought it was very sad, and really sets some things in motion.
Sorry this is so poorly written. I was in a hurry. But I think I got all my thoughts across.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Book: A Room with a View
PBS's Masterpiece Theater has inspired my reading of a couple of books in the last few months. The first was Persuasion, which I read before I watched the recorded version on my Tivo. The second was A Room with a View, which I watched before reading.
A note on the 2007 film: The screenplay was adapted by Andrew Davies, famous for adapting such movies as the 1995 Pride & Prejudice miniseries and Bridget Jones Diary. I wasn't familiar at all with the book, written by E.M. Forster, or the 1985 film starring Helena Bonham Carter and Maggie Smith. So to discover that there were great liberties taken in adapting the book for this recent movie was rather surprising. After completing the movie, I read the book, and am now working on the 1985 film version. This recent version was given an entire additional storyline that created a completely different feel than that which was intended by the author. That being said, I enjoyed the PBS version. It wasn't amazing, but being unfamiliar with the story, it was entertaining.
I greatly enjoyed the book and read it in two days. I had never read anything by Forster, but now imagine that I will read other books he has written. This was an excellent love story, as well as an interesting commentary on society at the turn of the 20th century. It is an easy and quick read. However, few of the characters are truly likable, but probably only because Forster writes them so realistically, that the have real character flaws.
As far as the 1985 film version goes, I have to say I didn't find that Julian Sands fit the description of George Emerson in the book. He seemed to feminine and all I could think of was George McFly (I preferred the bumbling youth of Rafe Spall in the 2007 film version), and he seems very old to be acting the way he does. Daniel Day Lewis was hysterical as Cecil Vyse. I don't know why I am surprised. He consistently acts his roles so intensely that I forget who the actor is. He plays such a snotty city boy, looking down his nose at the "country folk."
All in all, I recommend the book, then the older movie, then the newer one. All have their good points.
A note on the 2007 film: The screenplay was adapted by Andrew Davies, famous for adapting such movies as the 1995 Pride & Prejudice miniseries and Bridget Jones Diary. I wasn't familiar at all with the book, written by E.M. Forster, or the 1985 film starring Helena Bonham Carter and Maggie Smith. So to discover that there were great liberties taken in adapting the book for this recent movie was rather surprising. After completing the movie, I read the book, and am now working on the 1985 film version. This recent version was given an entire additional storyline that created a completely different feel than that which was intended by the author. That being said, I enjoyed the PBS version. It wasn't amazing, but being unfamiliar with the story, it was entertaining.
I greatly enjoyed the book and read it in two days. I had never read anything by Forster, but now imagine that I will read other books he has written. This was an excellent love story, as well as an interesting commentary on society at the turn of the 20th century. It is an easy and quick read. However, few of the characters are truly likable, but probably only because Forster writes them so realistically, that the have real character flaws.
As far as the 1985 film version goes, I have to say I didn't find that Julian Sands fit the description of George Emerson in the book. He seemed to feminine and all I could think of was George McFly (I preferred the bumbling youth of Rafe Spall in the 2007 film version), and he seems very old to be acting the way he does. Daniel Day Lewis was hysterical as Cecil Vyse. I don't know why I am surprised. He consistently acts his roles so intensely that I forget who the actor is. He plays such a snotty city boy, looking down his nose at the "country folk."
All in all, I recommend the book, then the older movie, then the newer one. All have their good points.
A Few Shows I'll Be Seeing
I posted last night about seeing The Wedding Singer. I have several other theatre performances I will be attending in the coming weeks and months. Among those are the following. Watch for my posts after each show!
May:
Curtains (Broadway) - Starring David Hyde Pierce, the show takes place in a theatre, in which a death occurs and a murder investigation ensues. Pierce won a Tony for his performance as Lieutenant Frank Coiffi (mercilessly beating out the very deserving Raul Esparza). This show will end in June, so I'll be glad to see it before its final performance.
November (Broadway) - Nathan Lane stars in this political satire by David Mamet. Political satire is not really my cup of tea, but I have heard this is really funny and I am sure I'll enjoy it. It also stars Laurie Metcalf.
Young Frankenstein (Broadway) - Starring Sutton Foster, Roger Bart, and Megan Mullaly. I have heard mixed reviews on this show, but look forward to seeing it and judging for myself. At least it has some actors I would like to say I have seen perform live.
June:
The Drowsy Chaperone (National Touring Production)
Hairspray (National Touring Production)
August:
Jersey Boys (National Touring Production)
May:
Curtains (Broadway) - Starring David Hyde Pierce, the show takes place in a theatre, in which a death occurs and a murder investigation ensues. Pierce won a Tony for his performance as Lieutenant Frank Coiffi (mercilessly beating out the very deserving Raul Esparza). This show will end in June, so I'll be glad to see it before its final performance.
November (Broadway) - Nathan Lane stars in this political satire by David Mamet. Political satire is not really my cup of tea, but I have heard this is really funny and I am sure I'll enjoy it. It also stars Laurie Metcalf.
Young Frankenstein (Broadway) - Starring Sutton Foster, Roger Bart, and Megan Mullaly. I have heard mixed reviews on this show, but look forward to seeing it and judging for myself. At least it has some actors I would like to say I have seen perform live.
June:
The Drowsy Chaperone (National Touring Production)
Hairspray (National Touring Production)
August:
Jersey Boys (National Touring Production)
Not to be mean, but... FINALLY!
I have been ready for Kristy Lee Cook to pack her bags and leave Idol for weeks. But imagine my surprise when she was finally eliminated last night! I thought she had some underground fans that wouldn't let her go. I just didn't think she was at the same level as the other remaining contestants. This is getting to be a pretty pure competition, and I am excited about it.
Goodbye, Kristy. You will probably have a new country CD in no time. Good luck with that.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Theatre: The Wedding Singer
Tonight, I saw the national touring production of The Wedding Singer. It was opening night in Dallas, and I didn't have great seats, but the place was only sold to about 2/3 capacity, so just before the show started, we stole some seats on the front of the first balcony.
I loved the Adam Sandler movie that this show was based on, but didn't have high expectations. They don't sing any of the great 80's songs that made the original so great. They don't have Adam Sandler or Drew Barrymore, who are clearly integral to the success of that movie.
Having said that, here are my quick thoughts. I didn't feel like the stage show was able to have the character development or the emotional attachments it needed. Robbie (Merritt David Janes) was good, but didn't have the likability I wanted for the character. Also, I felt the like the songs he was given to sing really couldn't showcase his vocal abilities. There were a couple of times his voice sounded great, but most of it was rock-y and hard to hear his talent. The women were the shining stars of the show. Julia (Erin Elizabeth Coors) was great, and her voice was pure and innocent, just like her character. Linda (Andrea Andert) was hilarious and trashy with a sexy sultry voice.
As far as the actual songs, I enjoyed the ensemble songs the best, with loud singing and 80's dancing. There were a couple of slower solos and duets I liked (Someday, Coming Out of the Dumpster, If I Told You), but this was more just a silly show to laugh out loud (some) and I didn't find myself looking at my watch. During the song All About the Green, all I could think of was Neil and Sabra's courtroom brawl last summer during SYTYCD!
An odd tidbit was that I noticed one member of the ensemble (Ashley Anderson) was a contestant on Grease, You're the One That I Want last year (as Emotional Sandy), which, sadly, I watched in its entirety. However, she must have gotten eliminated early on because I don't really remember her. She might have been the one that was not asked to be on the show originally, but that was a big hit with the viewers and was brought on anyway (only to be eliminated quickly). In that case, good for her for being in this show.
I didn't hate it, but I didn't love it. Maybe it will pick up some steam here in Dallas over the next couple of weeks. We'll see.
Song of the Week
I downloaded Carrie Underwood's version of Praying for Time and have been obsessed with it all week. I love the George Michael song, but seeing Carrie perform it last week was amazing. She brought a high level of emotion, intensity, and sincerity to the performance, and to hear her voice crack on the line "when there is no hope to speak of" shows the investment she has made in the lyrics of the song. Therefore, this is my song of the week. If you missed it somehow (don't know how you could have!), check it out here:
Carrie Underwood, Praying for Time
Carrie Underwood, Praying for Time
UPDATED: Dancing with the Stars - Week 5
It is Latin night tonight on Dancing with the Stars, which means we are in for a steamy saucy set of performances. Let's see who's got the Latin dances down.
Mario & Karina - He really did look like he got his swagger back, as though he was so much more confident. It really came across in his dance. I thought they looked great, and enjoyed watching their dance. Judges' score: 27/30
Priscilla & Louis - I can tell they really worked hard and the sexiness is there, which is key, but I also didn't feel that she was technically on. He is so obviously technically spot on, that it makes it more obvious when she is not. Judges' score: 21/30
Marissa & Tony - I have liked this pairing from the start. Marissa's charisma and enthusiasm for the dancing has spilled over every time she has appeared on screen. I thought the performance was really fun! Judges' score: 24/30
Cristian & Cheryl - I love this Daniel Bedingfield song (well, when Daniel sings it, anyway). The dance was very sexy, but was it technically good? I felt like Cheryl did most of the dancing on this one, while Cristian kind of stood around (kind of like Lacey and Kameron on last season's SYTYCD). Judges' score: 23/30
Marlee & Fabian - I was a little distracted during this performance but I found it to be a little scattered and awkward to watch. Judges' score: 22/30
Kristy & Mark - How cute is Kristy's family? I love that she created those characters for them so she wouldn't feel as uncomfortable. They are both so professional, and while I don't think they have tons of chemistry (best so far for them, though), I always feel like they are technically really good. Judges scores: 29/30
Shannon & Derek - Wow, Derek is having some medical bad luck lately, huh? Also, I don't remember Derek's shirt being open like that in th past. Anyway, to the dancing: It was ok. I felt like she just didn't look that great. Judges' score: 23/30
Jason & Edyta - She makes him look better, so together they seem smooth, but I was just watching him, and it was rather awkward. I think this dance was just hard for him. And why did they cut to Len in the middle of the dance? Judges' score: 27/30
UPDATE: It is not too big of a surprise that Priscilla & Louis were eliminated last night based on the last couple of performances. It is unfortunate whe could not continue at the level where she started off this season.
Mario & Karina - He really did look like he got his swagger back, as though he was so much more confident. It really came across in his dance. I thought they looked great, and enjoyed watching their dance. Judges' score: 27/30
Priscilla & Louis - I can tell they really worked hard and the sexiness is there, which is key, but I also didn't feel that she was technically on. He is so obviously technically spot on, that it makes it more obvious when she is not. Judges' score: 21/30
Marissa & Tony - I have liked this pairing from the start. Marissa's charisma and enthusiasm for the dancing has spilled over every time she has appeared on screen. I thought the performance was really fun! Judges' score: 24/30
Cristian & Cheryl - I love this Daniel Bedingfield song (well, when Daniel sings it, anyway). The dance was very sexy, but was it technically good? I felt like Cheryl did most of the dancing on this one, while Cristian kind of stood around (kind of like Lacey and Kameron on last season's SYTYCD). Judges' score: 23/30
Marlee & Fabian - I was a little distracted during this performance but I found it to be a little scattered and awkward to watch. Judges' score: 22/30
Kristy & Mark - How cute is Kristy's family? I love that she created those characters for them so she wouldn't feel as uncomfortable. They are both so professional, and while I don't think they have tons of chemistry (best so far for them, though), I always feel like they are technically really good. Judges scores: 29/30
Shannon & Derek - Wow, Derek is having some medical bad luck lately, huh? Also, I don't remember Derek's shirt being open like that in th past. Anyway, to the dancing: It was ok. I felt like she just didn't look that great. Judges' score: 23/30
Jason & Edyta - She makes him look better, so together they seem smooth, but I was just watching him, and it was rather awkward. I think this dance was just hard for him. And why did they cut to Len in the middle of the dance? Judges' score: 27/30
UPDATE: It is not too big of a surprise that Priscilla & Louis were eliminated last night based on the last couple of performances. It is unfortunate whe could not continue at the level where she started off this season.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
American Idol - Top 7
I am excited about Mariah Carey on the show tonight. I really love (most of) her music. Some of the newer stuff, not so much. But I think it is going to be tough because the contestants are constantly getting reamed out for singing Mariah songs. Perhaps, because it is a requirement, the judges won't be so harsh with the comparisons.
David Cook - I love You'll Always Be My Baby. Like Mariah, it makes me a little nervous. But this is his thing. He does different versions of well-known songs and really makes them new. Love the orchestra, too. Love him! He is not as creepy to look at anymore, either... And, OK, he cried. If he was terrible tonight, he still would stick around for crying. But either way, maybe that will quash those "cocky" rumors. Here's the video:
Loved:
Carly Smithson - I love Without You and I think Carly has the chops to really sing this song. She has a really rich voice and I enjoyed the "bigger" parts of the song. Here's the video:
OK:
David Archuleta - I kind of guessed someone would sing this one (When You Beleive). I have been singing it for a couple of weeks for no reason. I thought it was good. Kind of awkward, so not amazing in my opinion. But his voice sounded beautiful, as usual.
Syesha Mercado - For once, Syesha chose a song that wouldn't give her as much of a direct comparison to the original artist. I don't know Vanishing so I can't compare it to Mariah. Still, it was same old Syesha to me, and therefore it was JUST alright.
Brooke White - Hero is always such a cheesy song. But Brooke doesn't really need to worry about being compared to Mariah. She has a great deal of originality. But was she nervous or rushed tonight? I felt there were several times she didn't hit the note directly. She either missed it altogether, or had to come around to it. But I liked it. I am interested to hear her itunes recorded version.
Jason Castro - He sang I Don't Want to Cry. Love this song, and his version sounded nothing like the original. I really liked it, but didn't love it. He is consistent, though.
Um...No:
Kristy Lee Cook - I don't know Forever. Again, poor Kristy. I just don't like her very much (musically). Who keeps voting for her? I don't know anyone that likes her. Having said that, she actually didn't have a bad performance. But I always feel she is better at the big loud notes than the smaller, lower, quieter ones.
I liked Mariah on the mentor parts and thought she acted genuinely interested and helpful.
Bottom Three (?):
Syesha
Carly
Kristy
Going Home:
Syesha
David Cook - I love You'll Always Be My Baby. Like Mariah, it makes me a little nervous. But this is his thing. He does different versions of well-known songs and really makes them new. Love the orchestra, too. Love him! He is not as creepy to look at anymore, either... And, OK, he cried. If he was terrible tonight, he still would stick around for crying. But either way, maybe that will quash those "cocky" rumors. Here's the video:
Loved:
Carly Smithson - I love Without You and I think Carly has the chops to really sing this song. She has a really rich voice and I enjoyed the "bigger" parts of the song. Here's the video:
OK:
David Archuleta - I kind of guessed someone would sing this one (When You Beleive). I have been singing it for a couple of weeks for no reason. I thought it was good. Kind of awkward, so not amazing in my opinion. But his voice sounded beautiful, as usual.
Syesha Mercado - For once, Syesha chose a song that wouldn't give her as much of a direct comparison to the original artist. I don't know Vanishing so I can't compare it to Mariah. Still, it was same old Syesha to me, and therefore it was JUST alright.
Brooke White - Hero is always such a cheesy song. But Brooke doesn't really need to worry about being compared to Mariah. She has a great deal of originality. But was she nervous or rushed tonight? I felt there were several times she didn't hit the note directly. She either missed it altogether, or had to come around to it. But I liked it. I am interested to hear her itunes recorded version.
Jason Castro - He sang I Don't Want to Cry. Love this song, and his version sounded nothing like the original. I really liked it, but didn't love it. He is consistent, though.
Um...No:
Kristy Lee Cook - I don't know Forever. Again, poor Kristy. I just don't like her very much (musically). Who keeps voting for her? I don't know anyone that likes her. Having said that, she actually didn't have a bad performance. But I always feel she is better at the big loud notes than the smaller, lower, quieter ones.
I liked Mariah on the mentor parts and thought she acted genuinely interested and helpful.
Bottom Three (?):
Syesha
Carly
Kristy
Going Home:
Syesha
Saturday, April 12, 2008
BSG - "Six of One"
My thoughts on last night's episode of Battlestar Galactica:
Roslin, Starbuck & Admiral Adama - Obviously, Kara was not going to shoot the President. Roslin, however did not feel the same about Kara. But is Adama right? Is it a miracle that she is there? Is he becoming a believer? All I know is Starbuck means business! And Adama figures a way to send her on the search for earth without risking the entire fleet. Give her a stinky sewage ship and a crew and send her off on her own.
Gaius Baltar - I have already said he is my favorite character. He is appalling and hilarious. His discussion with "himself" was so funny. And he is such a slutty man. But he does have something special. He seems to be leading the "One True God" parade on Galactica. And he also could see something in Tory that others don't see. "You slay me, you really do, Gaius."
The Cylons - It is a revolt! It seems the human-friendly (well, not exactly human-friendly, but smart!) Cylons have decided to stage a coups. Is this the first step toward human/Cylon peace? The three Cylons that are rebelling and taking hold of "free will" are also the three Cylons that have experienced love with a human (Six with Baltar, Sharon with Helo and Chief, Leoban with Starbuck on Caprica). So does their experience give them the leg up, or maybe even some special ability the others don't have. Would be interesting to see that it does.
The Four Revealed - Love that Tigh is taking charge and the answer is to infiltrate Baltar's harem of women. Tory actually falls for his shtick. Will the Cylons and Baltar unite due to the belief in a single God?
Goodbye, Apollo - If I didn't know better, I would say that this was the last episode Jamie Bamber would be in. Could it have been more of a goodbye episode? It was sweet, though. I liked the emotions of the goodbye with Kara, where he uttered those most important words: "I believe you." And I guess the divorce from D is final. However, what was with the very large neck-hole on his womanly v-neck shirt?
Roslin, Starbuck & Admiral Adama - Obviously, Kara was not going to shoot the President. Roslin, however did not feel the same about Kara. But is Adama right? Is it a miracle that she is there? Is he becoming a believer? All I know is Starbuck means business! And Adama figures a way to send her on the search for earth without risking the entire fleet. Give her a stinky sewage ship and a crew and send her off on her own.
Gaius Baltar - I have already said he is my favorite character. He is appalling and hilarious. His discussion with "himself" was so funny. And he is such a slutty man. But he does have something special. He seems to be leading the "One True God" parade on Galactica. And he also could see something in Tory that others don't see. "You slay me, you really do, Gaius."
The Cylons - It is a revolt! It seems the human-friendly (well, not exactly human-friendly, but smart!) Cylons have decided to stage a coups. Is this the first step toward human/Cylon peace? The three Cylons that are rebelling and taking hold of "free will" are also the three Cylons that have experienced love with a human (Six with Baltar, Sharon with Helo and Chief, Leoban with Starbuck on Caprica). So does their experience give them the leg up, or maybe even some special ability the others don't have. Would be interesting to see that it does.
The Four Revealed - Love that Tigh is taking charge and the answer is to infiltrate Baltar's harem of women. Tory actually falls for his shtick. Will the Cylons and Baltar unite due to the belief in a single God?
Goodbye, Apollo - If I didn't know better, I would say that this was the last episode Jamie Bamber would be in. Could it have been more of a goodbye episode? It was sweet, though. I liked the emotions of the goodbye with Kara, where he uttered those most important words: "I believe you." And I guess the divorce from D is final. However, what was with the very large neck-hole on his womanly v-neck shirt?
Friday, April 11, 2008
Quick Thoughts: Idol & Office
My electricity has now been out for going on 30 hours. So I was terrified my Tivo wouldn't get to record my Thursday night shows. I was right. But I had plans to hang out at my friend Emily's and we watched the American Idol results show, as well as the new (finally!) episode of The Office. Here are a couple of quick thoughts:
American Idol - Who else was completely shocked last night? I wasn't totally surprised that Kristy Lee Cook wasn't in the bottom three. While I don't love her, she seems to be picking up some steam. I also wasn't surprised Michael Johns was in the bottom 3 with Syesha and Carly. I was completely surprised, however, that Michael was the one going home. It reminded me of Chris Daughtry last year when it was Just. Too. Soon. Farewell, Michael. i am sure you will find success anyway. And good luck!
The Office - Remember Phyllis' wedding last year when it was SO uncomfortable that it stopped being funny. I felt like that about this episode. The amount of hype this show was given based on how hilarious the table read was only left me wanting more. I love The Office. There were really funny parts, but overall I was just uncomfortable (and feeling REALLY sorry for Michael).
American Idol - Who else was completely shocked last night? I wasn't totally surprised that Kristy Lee Cook wasn't in the bottom three. While I don't love her, she seems to be picking up some steam. I also wasn't surprised Michael Johns was in the bottom 3 with Syesha and Carly. I was completely surprised, however, that Michael was the one going home. It reminded me of Chris Daughtry last year when it was Just. Too. Soon. Farewell, Michael. i am sure you will find success anyway. And good luck!
The Office - Remember Phyllis' wedding last year when it was SO uncomfortable that it stopped being funny. I felt like that about this episode. The amount of hype this show was given based on how hilarious the table read was only left me wanting more. I love The Office. There were really funny parts, but overall I was just uncomfortable (and feeling REALLY sorry for Michael).
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)