LOST: The Variable

I have not blogged about Lost in quite a while, even though my brain is all atwitter over the recent happenings. This season has been thought-provoking at the least, but I will say amazing (even though I think this season has split the fans).

I have been waiting for this particular episode. Specifically, for one conversation. For Daniel's conversation about "variables." I have been suspecting that, no matter how many time the creators have reminded us that "what happened happened," we would find out differently. If you read message boards at all, people are adamant about this point. Don't get me wrong, I think it is generally true for our Losties that what happened did in fact happen. But I also think Daniel has realized there is anomaly. First of all, Desmond pushing that button changed everything. Daniel was able to go see him in the hatch and send him to his mother. Now, granted, one would argue that he did that all along... But, if I trust anyone on this show to be smart enough to realize there are variables along with the constants, it would be resident genius Daniel.

Oh, Daniel. RIP, my friend. I have really liked him from pretty early on. His character was endearingly crazy. And seeing his story fill in tonight was great, especially the confirmation of the long-suspected truth that Widmore is, in fact, Daniel's father. I have been avoiding spoilers on Lost like the Swine Flu, so perhaps it was a known fact that someone was going to die, but I didn't know (for once!) and was surprised and so sad to see Daniel go. But in the end I think his death was so revealing about Eloise Hawking and her "sacrifice" that it gave his death purpose.

Ellie/Elloise. So she made the ultimate sacrifice of her son. Knowing she would kill him. Could she have told him "I am going to kill you" and prevented it? That is unknown but Hawking has said over and over that things can't be changed, so maybe she believed that and didn't have a choice but to sacrifice him. You would think she could have been a better mother to him in the meantime!

My other thought on this, while somewhat fleeting, is this. Hawking has throughout the series been reinforcing the "can't change the future" aspect, but why keep beating a dead horse? Maybe she isn't quite so sure herself? Why couldn't she try not to kill Daniel by warning him? Maybe because she was OK with him dying. I mean it is pretty clearly a sad means to an end. Does this advance her own agenda? I guess I can't tell what her agenda is. She isn't working for Widmore and not for Ben. So is she working for a possible mysterious third party? Hmmm....

Desmond. Thank goodness Desmond is alive. I just couldn't take it if he weren't...

Myles & Chang. How funny was Myles face when Daniel told Chang that Myles was his son. And of anyone in the DI at that point in time, Chang would be the one with the capacity to believe it. So he says, "Is this true?" instead of a "yeah, right." And Myles denies it. Sad. There was his chance to really reunite with his dad.



Meanwhile, back at the Dharma camp. Jim is contemplating how to deal with the prisoner he has captured and ends up bringing all of the non-Dharma gang in on the decision. I really enjoy Sawyer as a leader here. It just struck me as fitting that they were all sitting in a circle in his house discussing the options, and that he was in charge. Of course, Juliet kind of trumped his decision with letting Daniel, Kate & Jack head out to the hostiles, but Jim didn't seem to mind too much. They are still a sweet team.



And they split. Everyone makes a choice on who goes where, and, look, only Jack & Kate leave. Hurley doesn't go. Jin doesn't go. And Myles makes the very obvious choice to stay behind. Should be interesting to see if they reunite back on the beach like they planned, now that ol' Danny bit the dust (*sniff*). I am worried that our core Losties are about to become enemies or something and I would hate to see that.

Going back. We have to go back, Kate. OK, this isn't what Jack meant when he said those words but they take on new meaning. Go back to BEFORE the crash and land successfully in Los Angeles. But wait, that means nothing that has happened happened. That is tragic and sad, even though we lost many along the way. I just can't see it that way.

Upcoming movies I want to see

I've been off the grid for a bit and this poor blog has taken the worst of it. So I am working to get back to posting. And since I have lots of upcoming movies on the brain, I thought I would list a few I am really looking forward to.

1) Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

I've been waiting for the release of this one since I left the theater after watching Order of the Phoenix. The latest trailer looks UNBELIEVABLE!

2) X-Men Origins: Wolverine

I really enjoyed the X-Men movies, especially parts one and two. I also really like Hugh Jackman. But I was really excited about some of the other casting on this one, too. Especially Taylor Kitsch as Gambit. I think he is about to blow up huge.

3) Public Enemies

Christian Bale & Johnny Depp. Do I need to say anything more? But I will. I also love the subject matter (John Dillinger and bank robberies and tommy guns...) and time period.

4) Terminator Salvation
Watch the trailer here. More Christian Bale. And I love the Terminator franchise. Looking forward to seeing where they go with this one.

5) Star Trek
Watch the trailer here. I don't even watch Star Trek and have never been interested in it one iota. But JJ Abrams has done what he set out to do, and that is to appeal to a whole new group of potential fans with his new interpretation.

6) 500 Days of Summer

How cute does this one look? I really like Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Zooey Deschanel.

7) The Hangover
Watch the trailer here. First, the reason this attracted me was Will Tippin, I mean Bradley Cooper. And, as usual, he is playing kind of the sleazy guy, but I am glad to see he is playing a main character. But this trailer actually really cracks me up. The tooth, the tiger, the baby.

8) Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen
Watch the trailer here. I have been sucked into the Shia LeBeouf hype and really like him. Plus, I enjoyed the first film, so I'll give this one a chance.

9) Away We Go

When I first heard of this, before the trailer, I thought it would be much goofier. Instead it is just a quirky, sweet-looking little thing. I can't wait to see this one. Looks entertaining.

10) Land of the Lost
Watch the trailer here. I have seen a fair bit of this because Sean was working on it and the parts I have seen are really funny. Will Ferrel almost always cracks me up. Plus, I must support my man's work!

Movies I am maybe excited to see (can't decide):
1 & 2) I want to be able to say I am looking forward to the release of The Time Traveler's Wife and My Sister's Keeper, two of my favorite books of all time, but I am concerned about the film adaptation in both cases. Therefore, I am hesitant to put any hope into them. I'm sure I will see them both anyway.


3) The Soloist - I adore Robert Downey, Jr. and really love Joe Wright, who is directing. I just am not sure this movie actually appeals to me. I don't love Jamie Foxx. Maybe I'll just rent it unless it gets rave reviews or something.


And while I really like to support my husband and his work (I did see Alvin and the Chipmunks in the theater, and plan to see Land of the Lost), I am not sure I'll be seeing They Came From Upstairs. I'm sure we'll see it eventually but I am just not sure I can sit through it. I am not the target audience here.


Well, my list of movies to see this summer is huge! There are a few others that caught my eye but didn't quite make the list. I better start saving money now or plan on going to the 11 am shows for a discount...

Lost: LaFleur

I loved this episode of Lost. If you have read my Seasons 1-4 recaps, you'll know that I was originally a fan of Jack, but the re-watch of the series won me over to Sawyer. Now I just officially love him. This episode certainly had a different feel to it than usual. Partly because of the "three years earlier"/"three years later" way of story-telling, but also because the content seemed so different. The audience is watching this episode knowing that Kate, Jack & Hurley will be found by a jumpsuit-wearing Jin. For me, it was quite devastating to watch as these characters adjusted to a life with the Dharma Initiative (one that seems pretty happy, actually), only to be mucked up by the return of those we have moved beyond (except for Jin, who I am hoping gets to reunite with Sun soon).



Here is why I am confused. Locke turned that wheel to save the rest of the time-flashing gang on the island. I understand why he did that. But we also know that Locke, along with the Oceanic Six, would have to return. Richard told Locke that, didn't he? "You're going to have to die, John." But those remaining after Locked turned the wheel seemed alright. Was it just a trick? Did someone need to turn the wheel so they had John do it? Are the O6 returning to the island just to serve as pawns in the upcoming "war" that Widmore warned about?

I have been waiting all season for the Kate/Sawyer reunion. Like, knowing how much he loves her. And I never in a million years imagined that three years would have gone by on the island. I thought that, while three years passed off-island, it would have been a much shorter amount of time. I didn't expect things to progress like they did:



1) The most obvious: Sawyer and Juliet have a thing. Like an "I love you" thing. And I actually bought it. It was believable and it was sweet. It made sense as soon as they started jumping through time because they were constantly leaning on each other for support, and fessing up to weird happenings and sad feelings.

2) Jin is completely fluent in English. I have heard Daniel Dae Kim speak in interviews and he has zero Korean accent. So he is still having to put on, but I love that he can finally speak English and not have to do that "I don't understand" shtick he has done for 4 seasons. On a sidenote: Daniel Dae Kim will be playing the King of Siam in The King and I at London's West End. I wonder what kind of singer he is!

3) This gang is very established in the Dharma Initiative. Sawyer aka LaFleur is head of security. They all have their very own jumpsuits. Juliet is a mechanic. What is Myles doing? Don't know, but he came along for the ride, and it seems they all are quite good friends. As in happy.

4) Guess who is new to the show! Herc (Kevin Rankin) from Friday Night Lights. Now we can wonder if the island "cured" him of his need for a wheelchair. Also new to the show, Reiko Aylesworth, or Michelle from 24. I think I stopped being interested in 24 after they killed her off.



Let's mention a couple of other things here. I love how the confused and unknowing Losties are now the know-it-alls. When Sawyer went out and talked to Richard about Jughead and crazy Locke, I was so happy that, finally, our guys knew something those guys didn't.

Also, other interesting things occurred this episode, such as the statue (Whoa! How far back was that?) and the birth of Amy's baby (Yea, a baby was actually born on the island!) but I am waiting to see where these things go (if they go anywhere) before I write about them. Mainly because I don't have lots to say about them right now, except "hmmmm....."

Questions:

Does it seem strange to anyone else that Sawyer is still having Jin check every day for their people? Wouldn't you have given up by now, especially if you were as happy with life as they seem to be? Maybe Sawyer's proclamation that three years is long enough to get over someone was more just him trying to convince himself.

If I have read this correctly, and based on the time period we suspect this gang is in, where is young Ben? At first, I thought he might not have arrived, but if he comes much later, I would have a hard time believing Michael Emerson is young enough for the part.

Widmore led the Others aka "my people" peacefully for 30 years (I did hear mention of the Dharma/Others truce) until Ben screwed that up. So is Widmore currently leading the Others right now? It makes sense if this is the mid-70s, that we are 20 years into the Widmore Era. That leaves 10 more before Ben kicks him out, and probably till the Purge (or maybe a little longer).

The writers threw me for a big loop hooking Juliet and Sawyer up that way. How is Kate's return going to change this? How big of a wrench will be tossed in? As Sean said, "Poor Juliet. She is always tossed aside for Kate." Kate, who we are growing to dislike more and more...

Here are some review links:
Lost 5.8: LaFleur by Emily at Eclaire Fare
LeFleur Recap and Analysis by Erika
Things I Noticed: LaFleur by Vozzek69

The End is Here - Pushing Daisies

Yes, I am aware that it has been quite some time since we learned that ABC wouldn't be renewing Pushing Daisies. I have come to terms with it over the last couple of months. And I was anxiously awaiting the final 3 episodes of the series, hoping for some closure. Of course, then we discover that ABC won't even be "burning off" the last three episodes on network TV, and we would have to wait for the DVD to see the final eps.

Indian television, however, doesn't have any reservations about playing the series through to its (all-too-soon) end, and I discovered that they were playing these final episodes over the last few weeks. While being sad it is over, I was also excited as we had been told that the series finale, while not originally intended to be a finale, would give us some closure.

Unfortunately, while the story progresses in a satisfactory way, addressing so many of the plot points that are still up in the air, it was clear that the writers tied up some loose ends just to say they were tied up. And things are rushed. The regular progression was quite enjoyable (and it was headed in a kind of new direction, had it not been canceled). I was glad to see it, but only reminded it was canceled way too early.

I believe this is the episode they were filming the day I saw Lee Pace (!) and David Arquette at the WB lot. If I remember correctly, it was on their very last day of filming. The good news is that I don't think a single one of these actors will be looking for work for long.

Lost - The Life & Death of Jeremy Benthem (5x07)

This episode only really provided a few surprises for me. For the most part, it filled in some blurry spots (but ones we could have guessed).

Here is what we kind of already knew:

1) There have been lots of suspicions that John Locke would be revived or resurrected when he returned the island. Not sure if this is because he is some sort of chosen one by the island, so it revives him. We have seen it happen, sort of, to Christian Shepherd. But we have also seen Locke healed numerous times, from being paralyzed to falling and cracking bones to a receiving a gun shot wound. It doesn't completely shock me to see him alive (especially after the promo last week for this episode).

2) Locke's visits to the O6 (give or take). Everyone is surprised to see him, but no one is really shocked. Sayid is just kind of "whatever" about it. Hurley is convinced he is crazy, again (he never has been crazy, right?). Kate is firm but over it. Jack is angry.

3) Walt does need to return to the island, like the rest. It was nice to see Walt, but we knew we would because Walt told Hurley last season that Jeremy Benthem had been to see him, too. However, something must have upset him that he would then fly to Santa Rosa visit Hurley. I am still really hoping that Walt was somehow on that flight in coach.

New things revealed:

1) Abbadon DOES work for Widmore. There has been speculation about that. I am so glad that Hurley yelled at Locke for trusting him. Locke recognizes him from the hospital and goes with him anyway. I find it quite creepy. I am glad that Abbadon acknowledged that Locke recognized him. What is also new is that Ben kills Abbadon, but I don't think that Ben was trying to kill Locke at that time.

2) Locke kept his promise to Jin and didn't visit Sun. Nor did he send Ben to do his dirty work. Ben came up with that on his own.

3) Widmore remembers Locke from 50 years previous, while it has been only 4 days for Locke. This was a fun meet-up. Widmore reveals that Ben is, of course, the bad guy. That Widmore was forced to leave the island by Ben and he has never gotten back. I can see why Locke would choose to believe Widmore over Ben, given their awful history. But I just wish Locke would step up and stop listening to anyone else. If he is truly the chosen one, he should manage to get the job done on his own.

4) There is a war coming. Widmore tells this to Locke. I found this to be interesting, and while not completely shocking, a kind of interesting revelation as Widmore told Locke that being on the Island would keep him out of the war. You would think being on the island would put one smack dab in the middle of such war.

5) Ben kills Locke, but only after talking him out of killing himself. Why bother? This was certainly a disturbing but not surprising turn of events. It was really actually quite sad. Watching Locke trying to kill himself (and about to succeed) was just really sad. But it was a huge (scary) step of faith he was willing to take. Locke is often compared to Jesus lately, so who does that make Ben?

Some questions:

1) Which island are the Ajira flight survivors on? What is the room/office where Cesar is set up?

2) Why did some of the O6 flash back to wherever Jin is and some crash in the plane. We know Lapidis crashed in the plane and another woman (probably Sun) because they took off.

3) Why did Ben decide to kill Locke himself only after Locke mentioned Eloise Hawking. What about this knowledge meant that Locke needed to be die. I have a theory but I am still wrapping my head around it and working it out.

4) Except for Juliet, the Others don't move with the flashes. So I can believe Ben wouldn't have. He was all beat up, but that may have been partially from the crash as he was beat up so bad when they took off. What is going to happen next?

5) Locke realized who Christian's son was on his own. It was this revelation that got Jack on a plane (the one before the bridge-jumping experience where he found the obit for Jeremy Benthem)

Other thoughts:

I am glad the writers didn't spend more than one episode on the Jeremy Benthem visits. It would have been too drawn out. I like how Locke is so completely truthful to this Ajira crash crew, and he is just so matter-of-fact about dying, wearing those clothes to be buried, being killed by Ben. His faith is confirmed so he isn't really afraid of anything.

The conversation between Kate and Locke was sad. He realized how he screwed up the one thing he loved in life: his relationship with Helen. And Kate was rather mean to him about it. But it turns out Helen is dead. Locke has a number of regrets about Helen and he shares them here. His obsession with his dad was NEVER worth that loss and he knows it now.

I had a dream about Lost last night. In it, the Losties all flash-jumped to the 40s and were fighting in the war. And Ben was a big ol' Nazi. Then they jumped again and they were in Star Wars. They were all wearing robes and fighting with light sabers. Do you think either of these have any merit as theories...?

I wondered to my husband last night if maybe current Ben is responsible for 50-years-ago Widmore leaving the island. He might have trusted him back then, because Ben would have been a long-time resident of the island and we know he is quite the manipulator. The age difference makes one wonder when a younger Ben would have eliminated Widmore from the island, otherwise.

Someone please explain this to me

A.R. Rahman wrote an amazing score, as well as some perfect stand-alone songs for Slumdog Millionaire. He deservedly took home the Oscar for Best Song for Jai Ho (although I prefer O...Saya, also nominated).

Now here it the part I don't understand: Why, the very day after it earned this prestigious award, did we sully it with a remix. Okay, so Rahman wants a more commercialized release, so he agrees to do a remix with an American singer. Understandable. With the level of attention this film is getting, there are some pretty amazing singers he could get to sing in his remix.

But instead, we get Nichole Scherzinger of the Pussycat Dolls. Maybe I am being mean, but I just don't like PCD and don't think this remix adds anything to an already-great song. Check it out here:

DWTS: Not again!

Once again, this season I decided not to watch Dancing with the Stars. It just can't compare to So You Think You Can Dance, both on levels of talent (the pros are great, but the stars are not so great) and entertainment value. And once again, the season has sucked me. More and more this is due to the pros being snatched up from the SYTYCD alumni. Previously, Lacey Schwimmer (season 3 of SYTYCD) was brought on to dance with Lance Bass and this season is set to dance with Steve-O (who I am actually interested to see now that he has cleaned himself up).


This season, two new SYTYCDancers ahve been added:


Dmitry Chaplin, (season 2), who will be dancing with singer Jewel. I wonder if he will rip open his shirt much??


Chelsie Hightower, season 4, who will be dancing with rodeo star Ty Murray (who also happens to be Jewel's fiance)

Looks like I am sucked back in!

LOST: 316

Just a warning: I expect this post to be very scatter-brained, and it probably won't make a lot of sense.


I managed to watch about 30 seconds of this episode before I forced myself to turn it off and wait for my husband. He would never forgive me for watching it without him. But, needless to say, I was freaking out after seeing Jack wake up in a jungle. So I was so upset when Sean got off work late, didn't get home till late, and then we had technical problems and had to wait till 11 pm to get it watched. But it was well worth the wait.

Here are some of my thoughts and questions from this episode. (I watched it twice so I could be sure I didn't miss anything, but I am sure I did, nonetheless)

- We already know that Sayid and Hurley have no interest in being involved with Ben in this attempt to return to the island (although, I think both of them might feel somewhat compelled to return without his help). So who (or what) got to them to make them get there? I am guessing the same person got to Kate because I can't imagine anything that would make her give up Aaron (which seems to be the case??) and follow Jack to the island. And, let's face it: It isn't Ben. He was too busy taking care of his "promise" to deal with getting them all on board. And there is also the fact that Hurley didn't know he would be there.

- Did anyone else find the sudden rekindling of the Jack/Kate romance quite desperate. Both for the two of them, and for the story? I didn't think it fit.


- Two questions about Hurley. Why the guitar (It clearly has some meaning regarding Charlie, but I don't know what it is. Oh wait! Maybe Charlie visited him and that is what made him rush to the airport?)? The second question is about the seats he bought up. The flight is quite packed back in coach, so I am just guessing that he bought up all the remaining seats on the flight, so no more people would be allowed on. I was just a little confused on that. I love that he wanted to keep those people from getting on the plane.

- Speaking of Ben's promise was this him fulfilling (or trying to fulfill) his promise to kill Penny? He was at a marina. But who beat the crap out of him? I am hoping it was Desmond or maybe Penny herself. Did you notice not one person was curious about his beaten state when he got on the plane, not even his new best friend Jack?

- And as for Jack & Ben, I think their relationship is funny. Why would Jack as Ben, of all people, if he was responsible for Locke's death? And why does Ben tell him what he wants to hear (kind of fatherly, actually)? Also, I was amused that Ben seems quite jealous of the one-on-one time that Jack had with Mrs. Hawking.

- Of course, then Jack opens this suicide note and it is a letter of blame to Jack. Come on, Locke. That was just mean! But I am guessing Locke either killed himself because he knew he had to, or he had a hand in it... Did John even write that letter to Jack? Or is this something Ben is involved in. He has his hand in everything else.

- It is interesting that John's body will substitute for Christian's on the plane. It seems that Jack is trying desperately to embrace all the crazy talk (and not be a Doubting Thomas, which as an interesting analogy that Ben used for Jack not believing)


- Sayid has a police escort. What happened here and how did he manage to board this particular flight? And why did Sayid where another one of those low-cut black tank top/undershirts to the island? To recreate his first trip? I think the island would have found him anyway...

- The Losties returning to the island didn't crash this time, but flashed. Right into the time period where Jin is. This seems a little too lucky, so I am guessing that they are subject to the same time-jumps as those that are left on the island.

- But where are the other people from the plane? Sayid? Sun? Frank? The new guy and girl that were in first class? What happened there?

My favorite quotes:

Ben: "Who cares?", when Jack asks what will happen to all the other passengers on the plane

Jack: "How can you read?"
Ben: "My mother taught me."

Frank: "We're not going to Guam, are we?"

And now, next week, when all I want is to see what happens next, we get the Locke episode. You know, the one we have been waiting for. The one that explains everything he did after he left the island. The highly anticipated explanation. But all I want is to see what is happening on the island now that the O6 are back...

Run by Leona Lewis

I am trying to figure out how I feel about Leona Lewis' version of the song Run. You must understand that I adore the original by Snow Patrol, and it is one of my favorite (if not number one) songs on their albums. Leona is certainly talented, and more mainstream than Snow Patrol. But she kind of divas up the song. The video is pretty, as is Leona. I don't think I have made up my mind. I definitely prefer the SP version, but I guess her version is pretty enough. What do you say?

Watch the Leona Lewis version here.

Run by Snow Patrol


By the way, I do realize that Lewis did not just release this song and it has been out for a while. But as of late I have seen the video a lot and it just spurred me on to post.

Best Scripted TV Show on Hulu - Thoughts?

For the past several months, I have been on a panel over at The Hulu Review that has the task and privilege of choosing the top shows on Hulu, spread over a number of categories. While I intended to post about it sooner, I have yet to write anything on my blog about it. This week, we vote for Best Television Show. Keep in mind this is not Best Television Show Ever, but just the best of the series that are on Hulu. Of course, Hulu carries some of the best, so it is a tough decision this week. Keep in mind that the panelists are given freedom to choose the "best" using any method they choose. It is completely up to the panelists. Here are my opinions on the final 6 nominees for Best Television Show.


Alfred Hitchcock Presents - I am not knocking ol' Hitchcock, but he just ain't my TV cup of tea. The other five shows are ones I like a LOT more.



Arrested Development - This is one of my all-time favorite shows. And it literally never gets old. I can watch it regularly and when I finish season 3, I just pop season 1 back in the DVD player. It is unlike anything else I have seen on TV; the writing and acting are beyond amazing. And it is just hilarious. I probably quote Arrested Development more than any other show this is or ever was on. I would say it is too bad that it didn't last longer, but I like a show that can go out on a high note. And we can always be left wanting a little more.


Battlestar Galactica - Battlestar Galactica is a prime example of a genre that people are scared of (sci-fi)only to discover that it deals with very human, prevalent issues and relationships. Yes, there are giant robots and the human population lives in space, but what makes this show is the people. Their stories. How the interact. Of course, I really enjoy the space/robots part of it, too. But I think people are missing out on one of the best shows around. One can hope that it gains popularity on DVD after the series finishes in the coming months. *tear*


Buffy the Vampire Slayer - I hopped on the Buffy bandwagon a little late. I think it was during Season 6 when I started watching reruns from the beginning in syndication. I caught all the way up and then finished out the series on UPN. I truly think Joss Whedon is a genius, but I can see why Buffy doesn't have as universal appeal as some other shows, especially ones that are considered to be "sci-fi."


Chuck - I am huge Chuck fan (you can read about my days working on set here). I love the geek-spy combo. Zach Levi is perfect in the role (if you can accept how geeky he is really supposed to be). I think it reaches a wider audience and has a broader appeal than the other shows on the list. But I don't think I can name it my top. Yes, it is can't miss for me, but other shows on this list always will beat it out.


Friday Night Lights - Emily turned me on to FNL after Season 1. I had not been interested, even though I had heard the critical chatter, because it didn't appear to be doing all that well, in any time slot. The summer before the second season, I caught all the way up. I have even gotten my husband addicted. Fans rejoiced at getting a third season, which has been as amazing as the first. I literally cry every single episode, and after watching always find myself exclaiming how amazing the acting is, and how well the characters are portrayed by the actors.

My decision really comes down to Arrested Development, Battlestar Galactica, and Friday Night Lights, three shows that could not be more different (except for excellent writing, great execution, and the lack of the audience they deserve). Decision still being made...

How would you vote?

"Bright" Outlook for NBC's Parks and Recreation

My interest was sparked in NBC's new comedy Parks and Recreation just because it is Amy Poehler. From the creators of The Office. And Rashida Jones is cool. But the news today that Chris Pratt, aka Bright Abbott from Everwood will be joining the cast solidifies its place on my viewing schedule! Loved him as Bright. Loved him as Che on The OC. He was such a creep in Wanted. Can. Not. Wait.

Some TV discussion: Lost, BSG, and Chuck

OK, so I haven't blogged in a couple of weeks. I think I should be forgiven as I have been adjusting after a move to a different continent. :) But I plan to try to catch back up! Let's do a small catch up now! SUPER SPOILER ALERT!!!

LOST, "The Little Prince" - I don't even know what to say about Lost. I realize that a lot of fans are confused this season. I won't say there aren't confusing parts, but I am all about being confused. I still have full faith in the writers that things will be explained at a later date. Last night's episode was so amazing to me. I loved it. Sawyer got to see Kate again. While it hadn't exactly been addressed, we knew the time traveling crew was bound to show up at the time the Losties were on the beach. Sean guessed as soon as he saw the light. Creepy! But I love where this is going with Sawyer, and more character development.



And then Jin. JIN JIN JIN JIN!! I knew he wasn't dead. I just knew it but I am glad to see he is alive and saved by a young pregnant Rousseau. While I guessed that Rousseau was in the boat as soon as I heard the french, I did not see it coming that Jin was on the floating piece of wood...



Jack & Kate are reunited. Ben has confessed to going after Aaron, but I am guessing it is just a ploy to get them back to the island. I had wondered if that blood sample stuff was Ben's doing. And then I suspected Sun. And then for a split second we thought it was Claire's mom. Jack almost spilled all the beans. Conveniently, all the O6, except Hurley, are sitting at the marina. I am really excited to see where this is going. Shew! This was a great episode, but more than that, I think it set us up for what this time travel stuff entails.

Battlestar Galactica - No matter what you might say about Battlestar Galactica, you can't say that they are afraid to go to dark places. The first two episodes of the season were probably the most depressing and hopeless of the series thus far. After discovering a destroyed and unlivable earth, the fleet is in chaos, chomping at the bit for new leadership and new hope. I have been frustrated with Gaeta, who still seems to be trying to make up for the fact that he worked for Baltar and the Cylons while on New Caprica. Yes, he was feeding information to the revolutionaries in the fleet, but still, he was working for them! And then he stabbed Balter with a pen. And, seriously, I think I prefer Baltar over Gaeta right now. I am sure he thinks he is doing the right thing, but I don't think aligning with Zarek and mutiny is the answer. In the meantime, we got down to business in the third episode, "The Oath." Our favorite Galactica crew is coming together to fight against the upheaval. I don't care if you are human or Cylon. You don't let someone kill Admiral Adama! And I love seeing Starbuck and Apollo in on the action. I am just WAITING for someone to break open that brig and then it is on. Gaeta and Zarek don't really have a chance. Looking forward to tomorrow's episode!

Chuck vs the Third Dimension - I didn't get to watch this with a pair of 3D glasses, but I found it enjoyable nonetheless. Plus, who isn't glad our favorite loveable nerd is back? It was too long of a break.

I have a special interest in this episode, as I worked as an extra in several of the scenes. It was only my second or third gig and I was SO pumped when I booked it. I worked it for two days and the second day I was there for like 13 hours and was completely exhausted and sweaty mess by the end, but it was so worth it! On top of that, I made some fun friends in the process.



When I got to set, I didn't know that Tony Hale (Emmett) or Dominic Monaghan (Tyler Martin) would be there. I had heard Hale had joined the cast but had forgotten, and at the time, he had not appeared in any televised episodes. I am a big Arrested Development fan, and it was fun to see Buster in person. And then I saw Dominic Monaghan and was ecstatic. I love him as Charlie in Lost (RIP) and it was a real hoot. In addition, I saw Chuck, Sarah, Casey, and most of the Buy More staff. As a HUGE Chuck fan, this was all a real treat.



Dom Monaghan was really hilarious in person, acting quite silly when in character and doing a small bit of ad-libbing each time. I think comedy suits him. There was also a perfectly timed rendition of "You All Everybody" by Zach Levi. Just love him all the more for being a LOST fan!

Well, those are the only shows I am all caught up with.

Some Random Thoughts

First off, I leave today to go out of the country. I am excited and terrified. I am not sure how it will affect my blog-posting. I'll let you know once I get there and find out what kind of internet connection I have.

Next up, East of Eden. Hollywood has decided to do another remake. For starters, let me say that East of Eden is one of my favorite all-time books. I know most people prefer Steinbeck's bleak Grapes of Wrath, but pitiful Cal wins my affection every time. The story is heartbreaking, and I guess I just can't resist it. But is a remake necessary? Will they ruin it? Can someone possibly step into the shoes of James Dean as Cal? The person writing the screenplay (Christopher Hampton) is the same guy that adapted Atonement, so there is a check in the "positives" column. And having read the book, there is a lot more that could be put into a movie nowadays that would have been censored out in the 1950's. We'll have to see. I will await casting before I cast any further judgment.

Speaking of remakes, there will now be a remake of The Karate Kid. Ugh... Jackie Chan will be Mr. Miyagi. I probably could have called that. But why oh why does Jaden Smith have to play the title character? And does it seem to anyone else that this all just seems like a bad (and annoying) idea?

Arrested Development, The Movie is put on hold, again. It seems the writers want to wait and see if they can get Michael Cera to sign on before they write the screenplay. I say, pay him what he wants because the Bluth family isn't complete without our sweet innocent George Michael.

I just got the Slumdog Millionaire soundtrack. It is great so far. More to come on that later!

Why I Am Watching The Bachelor Tonight

I haven't watched The Bachelor for several seasons, but I'll be watching tonight. Turns out I know one of the girls. She is an friend of my sister's from middle and high school. I knew her when she had braces. I'll let you know who after tonight's premiere!

Book: Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris

I'd never read anything by David Sedaris but his books of kooky memoirs had been recommended to me several times. I picked up Me Talk Pretty One Day at the library on a whim and flew right through it. To call it amusing is an understatement. It is no wonder Sedaris felt the need to write multiple books about his life. The things that have happened to him are so ridiculous that one wonders if he made some of them up. But the knowledge that they did indeed happen just makes the book all the more enjoyable.

Me Talk Pretty One Day tells stories mainly about the author growing up in an strange (to say the least) family, working odd jobs here and there, and acclimating to a new place and new language after relocating to France. While in and of themselves these things aren't entertaining, Sedaris' story-telling makes for great laughs. I read full chapters to my husband while lying in bed, both of us laughing ourselves to tears.

I can't really think of what else to say about this book. If you like funny and bizarre, check it out.

A Very Brady Christmas

Christmas was made complete by the pleasure of watching A Very Brady Christmas with Sean and my sister and her husband (both of whom had watched it the night before and wanted to watch it again). The AMAZING-ness of this made-for-TV movie is something that can not be explained. I should just tell you to watch it. But instead, I will make some pointed comments, and perhaps post a photo or a youtube video, so that you can enjoy this with me.

For starters, let's talk about the actors. Carol was exactly the same as she was in the series. Mike, however, had since come out of the closet and embraced his more flamboyant tendencies. This allowed for some rather awkward moments where the high level of discomfort during kissing scenes with Carol were very obvious. Greg, Peter, Marcia and Jan were pretty much what you would expect. Cindy was not the original actress (and, therefore, according to my sister, the only semi-good acting talent int he whole show). Bobby was back with reddish blond hair (which apparently is his natural color and it was dyed brown during the series), but he was looking a little worse for wear. Alice was back in all her annoying glory, but they brought in a new actor to play Sam.

Now to the story. First, we spend 20 minutes where Mike and Carol both decide to surprise the other with a big trip over Christmas. They are both planning it, realize that they are double-booking, and cancel the trips, only to decide that they would like to spend the money to bring all the children back home for Christmas.

OK, so let's focus for a moment on the fact that every one of the children has some life problem they are dealing with: Greg's wife wouldn't come home for Christmas because she wanted to be with her family, so he alone with their son; Peter is in a relationship with a woman who is his superior at work, and therefore has a hard time committing to her; Bobby wants to quit business school and become a race car driver instead, but will the family approve?; Marcia's husband got laid off from his job right before Christmas, and they decide to conceal it from the family; Jan and her husband Phillip are on the outs and ready to divorce, but they haven't told the family, so he comes along for Christmas anyway; Cindy realizes that her family still treats her like a child, and they don't ask her what she wants to do, but they tell her what to do. Alice comes back to the Brady household after Sam has left her for a younger woman who wants his help with her "rump roast" (because every joke about Sam has to be about his job as a butcher).

Shockingly, all of these issues are resolved over the course of about 10 minutes of air time over Christmas dinner. Greg's wife shows up because she missed him and the son; Peter and the girlfriend propose simultaneously; Bobby fesses up to his love for racing and the parents agree that he can try it out; Marcia's husband admits to losing his job, but Mike has already figured it out and helped him to get a new one; Jan and Phillip realize they want to be together after she covered him with a blanket in the middle of the night; Cindy confesses her anger about being treated like a child, and Sam shows up to apologize to Alice and ask her to come back, to which a stern finger-pointing and a "don't do that again" suffice for his cheating on her... Hmmm...

So that is good, right? Well, the story gets even more ridiculous and convoluted. I forgot to mention that earlier in the movie, Mike loses an architecture job because he is more concerned with safety and the client wants to go the cheap route. So during Christmas dinner, the phone rings. The former client has had a cave in at his work site. So who do you call in such emergencies? The former architect, of course! Mike goes into the building, which subsequently caves in. The two trapped security guards walk out unarmed, and thank goodness the extras given the job to act as EMTs know how to take a pulse. Because really, they take a pulse on the guys walking out and that is it. But wait! Oh no! Mike is stuck under a beam for hours. No emergency teams go into save him. The family just waits outside the yellow police tape. But let's remember back to an episode where Carol sang O Come All Ye Faithful at church one Christmas. So she stands and sings it at the police tape, and the crowd of onlookers all join in. Miraculously, Mike then walks out of the building. The singing saved him and gave him the strength (I guess...) to life the beam and come out. And Merry Christmas to all!!

Oh, I forgot to mention a couple of odd "grown up" Brady moments. Jan and Phillip and Marcia and Wally both have really awkward make-out sessions. I guess the grown-up Bradys have grown up moments, both good and bad.

I know I am really making fun of this movie, and it really deserves it. But I can't think of another movie in recent memory that is this bad and this good at the same time. I mean, look how much I wrote about it! I couldn't find a lot of pictures, so just watch this video to make up for it. About minute 6 is where it gets good!

Movie: Cat on a Hot Tin Roof

I don't think I have babbled on much about Paul Newman on this blog. I love him. LOVE him. I was sad when he passed away this year, but not too sad as he lived a long and fulfilling life, was known for being a family man, and was an amazing actor. My mom bought me a collection of Tennessee Williams plays (he is one of my favorite playwrights) for Christmas. This jogged my memory that I really enjoyed Cat on a Hot Tin Roof when I watched it a while back, so I picked it up at the library to give it a good re-watching. Newman and Liz Taylor are breathtakingly gorgeous and the story itself breaks my heart. Let's review:

Brick (Paul Newman) and his wife Maggie (Elizabeth Taylor) are home at Brick's parents house, awaiting health news of his father (Big Daddy, played by Burl Ives) and preparing to celebrate his 65th birthday that evening. We soon discover that Brick and Maggie have a cold and unloving relationship. She is manipulative and he is an alcoholic. Through the course of the evening, it is revealed that Big Daddy is dying of cancer. Much time is spent arguing between Maggie and sister-in-law Mae about who will inherit the thousands of acres of successful cotton farm and the $10 million that Big Daddy is worth. In the meantime, Big Daddy and Brick have it out about why he is an alcoholic and why he won't sleep with his wife Maggie. Amazingly, all problems are resolved through a good bit of yelling and crying.

Brick - Apparently, Paul Newman (and Liz Taylor) were on the brink of super-stardom at the time they shot this film. This film was the vehicle that catapulted them both forward. It was a very mature role for Newman to be playing. He was amazing. His anger and bitterness and shame weren't enough to hide how beautiful he is to look at, but it was enough to believe it anyway.

Maggie - This kind of acting doesn't really exist anymore. Women don't do this over the top Southern thing like they used to (see Vivien Leigh...), but at the time it was considered top notch acting. And I am pretty sure Elizabeth Taylor nailed it (but I can't properly judge since I don't see it enough to know). Even though she is rather manipulative, both with Brick and with Big Daddy (for his money), you just feel sorry for her. She has a horrible marriage, she is poor and lonely.

I discovered after this second viewing that Tennessee Williams was very unhappy with this production and that it veered wildly from the original play (some parts were censored, and some just changed). So I sat down with my new book to see the difference. I have to say it was quite different. In the movie, Brick blames himself for the death of a close friend, Skipper, who he incorrectly believes to have had an affair with Maggie. The truth comes out that she was faithful and Brick was able to realize he had taken out his grief on her, when he was really disgusted with himself for the suicide. Conversely, in the book, while Brick does blame himself for Skipper's death, there is a whole gay layer to the relationship. It is quite clear that Skipper was in love with Brick, so he does sleep with Maggie to prove he is not in love with Brick. When this doesn't work, he kills himself. The question is whether Brick felt the same, and it seems he did but wouldn't admit it.

In the movie, things are tied up nice and neat. Brick lets Big Daddy have it by telling him he never loved any of his children or his wife. So Big Daddy acts nice to everyone, like he learned his lesson. Big Daddy asks alcoholic Brick if he wants and drink, and he says no. Maggie lies to the family and says she is pregnant (which can not be since they sleep separately), so Brick decides he is done with the deceit and moves to the bed, where things are all patched up. It was a nice ending, but certainly not how Williams wrote it. He wrote stuff that was more real and human than that.

The play ends with more manipulating, lying and deceiving. Big Daddy isn't any nicer to anyone, Maggie seduces Brick, but mainly because he is so pumped full of alcohol he doesn't have a choice.

OK I am clearly analyzing this stuff a lot. But I just spent 3 days watching the movie and reading the book. I am kind of saturated with it. If you don't mind (or care) that the movie deviates so much from the play, then watch it. The acting is great (some of the characters are extremely annoying: Mae, Big Mama, the children, but that is how they are written). Did I mention that Paul Newman is gorgeous??

Happy New Year!!

So it is officially 2009! I don't have any resolutions this year. I don't usually make them, so why start now? Maybe I should make a resolution to make more resolutions? Nah... What to you hope to accomplish this year?

Merry Christmas

I love Christmas. It is my favorite holiday! As we celebrate the birth of Jesus (yes, that is where Christmas originated: shocking!! :), I love spending time with family, eating a bunch of yummy treats, opening gifts, listening to holiday music, and seeing Christmas decor (which is seriously lacking in Los Angeles, especially Christmas lights).

The big news this Christmas is that my sister had her baby yesterday! I now have 11 (see above) nieces and nephews (and only one of those is from Sean's side of the family). I have never been in town when one of my sisters delivered, so I am very excited to say that I was in the room when Bennett Robert Gudalis was born. On Tuesday night is when part of my family was opening gifts, so we left food and gifts unwrapped to rush her to the hospital. Congrats to Brian and Jenna! He is adorable. Click here for some pics. (Forgive my greasy hair in this pic as I had just gotten rained on.)


Now for some of my favorite Christmas songs:

Mary Did You Know by Michael English (this is my favorite version but PLEASE forgive the beginning of this video--I don't get it...)


Last Christmas by Wham


Light a Candle by Avalon


All I Want for Christmas by Maria Carey


Unfortunately, the joy of Christmas does not always extend into holiday travel. The airport was packed, the weather was freezing (once I got to Louisville, it was 8 degrees...), and one of my bags didn't make it. So I wore the same jeans and socks for three days. I had two shirts with me so I've been trading off. How is it that all my underwear was in the missing bag and all Sean's was in the bag that made it without a problem? Good news: The bag with the gifts got here in time. All else can be remedied (but I should prepare for the fact that frightening photos were taken while my makeup bag was also in the missing luggage. I didn't see that bag for 3 full days after I landed.

In other news, what could make such air travel worth it? Celeb spotting at the airport, of course. I saw Ryan Gosling and knew it was him immediately. I never ask for photos but I was just standing there and a couple girls walked up to him. He was so nice. So when he walked right next to me, I had to ask for a photo. He was so gracious and sweet. He even asked me my name and said "nice to meet you." My husband took the picture so I think that knocks me down one point on the loser scale (as in, less loser-y).


So... MERRY MERRY CHRISTMAS! May you remember the reason for the season.

Book: The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga

Reading books that take place in India is certainly giving me some insight. However, I am not sure The White Tiger, while entertaining and educating, does much to prepare me for my trip. The reason is that it is about the castes, from which the poor can't really escape. It is a very interesting commentary on what it takes for a servant from a very poor family to rise up and find financial success and freedom.

The White Tiger (aka Balram Halwai) is so named because he is the type that comes along once in a lifetime. His story is presented via letters he writes to the President of China over the course of a week. He writes these letters to prepare the president for a trip to India, and to tell him how things really are.

Balram is a driver for a wealthy businessman, whose main job is bribing city and country officials. He reveals early in his letters that he is currently a successful Indian entrepreneur and that he progressed so far through committing murder and theft. The reader waits through the story to find out how the murder comes to be, and what steps lead Balram to such an act. He points out that the caste system is what he calls a Rooster Coop, meaning that the roosters could easily fly away instead of being killed, but they just stand and wait their turn. And the Indian servants just take all the poor treatment, poor pay, and complete disrespect without a word. Balram is so different from others because he decides not to settle for the status quo.

Unfortunately, I don't feel like Adiga made Balram very appealing as a protagonist. And his boss Ashok is not so horrible as the antagonist (aside from one really horrible thing he does to Balram). So I didn't necessarily find myself rooting for Balram. But the story is more just a commentary on the status of India, the caste system, the mistreatment of people, the corruption of the government, etc. And it was really interesting to read.

From reading other reviews, I am not sure I loved this as much as other readers did. Maybe I am not the target audience. But it was an enjoyable read, nonetheless.