Wednesday, April 08, 2009
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
Monday, April 06, 2009
Thursday, April 02, 2009
Infuriating
So apparently carrying lots of cash is grounds for detainment at an airport. I also found it infuriating that one TSA agent says, "He's acting like a child" How is asking whether or not a question is something he needs to legally answer childlike?
'MERICA!
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Friday, March 27, 2009
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Monday, March 23, 2009
The Future of Children's Stories
Slagsmålsklubben - Sponsored by destiny from Tomas Nilsson on Vimeo.
I actually find this really cool
Thursday, March 19, 2009
The Tip
That's the drive Andrea and I will be taking this weekend. It's the farthest north we've ever been in the "big mitten". Let's hope they have electricity up there.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Influential Albums #1: Green Day - Dookie
This is going to be the first in a series I'm going to blog about. A friend of mine had recently posted on Facebook some albums that she truly loved. I thought this was a great idea and wanted to share my list with the world and hear your thoughts.
The first album I'll be talking about is Dookie by Green Day.
It wasn't a question what album was going to be #1 on my list. This was the first album I owned and I listened to it non-stop for about three months. I was in 7th grade and around the age of 12 or 13. I first picked up the album after attending some welcome party for the middle school I was going to. Someone played Basket Case and I now know what the young girls screaming their heads off when hearing Twist and Shout by The Beatles. I'm not putting Green Day at their level, but I will say this was the first time I had heard music this fast, loud, and youthful. I grew up, like most kids, listening to the music of my parents. For better or worse, my parents are quite young so I was listening to at the oldest Elton John music, but more like Celine Dion and Journey. Basket Case was a song that just knocked me off my feet. I couldn't stop bobbing my head up and down and after it finished I asked the DJ (some 8th grader) who that was. He showed me the CD and not only was the cover funny/cool the back has a picture of Ernie rocking out in a mosh pit. That next weekend I took money I had been saving up and bought a Sony CD player and my first album.
This album opened up my world and began my addiction to music. It not only got me to start listening to music that was completely different than what my parents liked, but also had me wanting to know what else was out there. I became addicted to some alternative radio station out of Lansing called Buzz 95 (how great is that name?). My CD player also had a tape recorder and I would sit and listen to the radio and record any song that had my head banging.
This was also an album that combined a mixture of humor into it's lyrics. I wasn't old enough to appreciate deep meaning in songs, so funny songs about drugs, sex, and violence worked for me as I was a young kid that didn't understand any of that stuff anyway. This got me looking into punk music, classic rock, and even rap.
Burnout - Great intro song that has a fast beat, great drums and a fun chorus "I'm not growing up, I'm just burning down"
Having a Blast - A song that when listened to now I see is scary and all about someone taking over a situation and not letting anyone out alive. At the time it was just fun.
Chump - Great opening line "I don't know you but I think I hate you"
Longview - One of my favorites. A song in which I listened more to the music than the lyrics. It builds from a soft bass riff into this great rock song. Also one of the first songs I heard the word shit.
Welcome to Paradise - A classic. One of the big hits off this album and an easy song to sing along to.
Pulling Teeth - A fun/weird song about a guy who's had the crap beat out of him but sings in a happy way.
Basket Case - The song that started it all. Sing a long everyone!
She - The silent hit from this album. I feel everyone knows this song (maybe b/c it was right after the #1 hit) but I never heard it on the radio.
Sassafrass Roots - The one song on the album that just isn't memorable. It's not a bad song, but isn't original and seems too much like others on the album.
When I Come Around - Once I purchased the album, this became my favorite song. Basket Case drew me in, but this was the song I listened to over and over. Great vocals and awesome riff that is just catchy.
Coming Clean - "17 and strung out on confusion" Another song with a great into. I usually stopped listening after 20 seconds though.
Emenius Sleepus - Tied with Sassafrass Roots as a song that just got lost in the memory.
In the End - This is the short punk song that I really dig sometimes. Barely over a minute long but fast paced and fun.
F.O.D. - Anyone who owned this album should know all the words to this song. Great build up and the first song with acoustic on Dookie.
All By Myself (secret song) - Funny, stupid, just what I like.
The first album I'll be talking about is Dookie by Green Day.
It wasn't a question what album was going to be #1 on my list. This was the first album I owned and I listened to it non-stop for about three months. I was in 7th grade and around the age of 12 or 13. I first picked up the album after attending some welcome party for the middle school I was going to. Someone played Basket Case and I now know what the young girls screaming their heads off when hearing Twist and Shout by The Beatles. I'm not putting Green Day at their level, but I will say this was the first time I had heard music this fast, loud, and youthful. I grew up, like most kids, listening to the music of my parents. For better or worse, my parents are quite young so I was listening to at the oldest Elton John music, but more like Celine Dion and Journey. Basket Case was a song that just knocked me off my feet. I couldn't stop bobbing my head up and down and after it finished I asked the DJ (some 8th grader) who that was. He showed me the CD and not only was the cover funny/cool the back has a picture of Ernie rocking out in a mosh pit. That next weekend I took money I had been saving up and bought a Sony CD player and my first album.
This album opened up my world and began my addiction to music. It not only got me to start listening to music that was completely different than what my parents liked, but also had me wanting to know what else was out there. I became addicted to some alternative radio station out of Lansing called Buzz 95 (how great is that name?). My CD player also had a tape recorder and I would sit and listen to the radio and record any song that had my head banging.
This was also an album that combined a mixture of humor into it's lyrics. I wasn't old enough to appreciate deep meaning in songs, so funny songs about drugs, sex, and violence worked for me as I was a young kid that didn't understand any of that stuff anyway. This got me looking into punk music, classic rock, and even rap.
Burnout - Great intro song that has a fast beat, great drums and a fun chorus "I'm not growing up, I'm just burning down"
Having a Blast - A song that when listened to now I see is scary and all about someone taking over a situation and not letting anyone out alive. At the time it was just fun.
Chump - Great opening line "I don't know you but I think I hate you"
Longview - One of my favorites. A song in which I listened more to the music than the lyrics. It builds from a soft bass riff into this great rock song. Also one of the first songs I heard the word shit.
Welcome to Paradise - A classic. One of the big hits off this album and an easy song to sing along to.
Pulling Teeth - A fun/weird song about a guy who's had the crap beat out of him but sings in a happy way.
Basket Case - The song that started it all. Sing a long everyone!
She - The silent hit from this album. I feel everyone knows this song (maybe b/c it was right after the #1 hit) but I never heard it on the radio.
Sassafrass Roots - The one song on the album that just isn't memorable. It's not a bad song, but isn't original and seems too much like others on the album.
When I Come Around - Once I purchased the album, this became my favorite song. Basket Case drew me in, but this was the song I listened to over and over. Great vocals and awesome riff that is just catchy.
Coming Clean - "17 and strung out on confusion" Another song with a great into. I usually stopped listening after 20 seconds though.
Emenius Sleepus - Tied with Sassafrass Roots as a song that just got lost in the memory.
In the End - This is the short punk song that I really dig sometimes. Barely over a minute long but fast paced and fun.
F.O.D. - Anyone who owned this album should know all the words to this song. Great build up and the first song with acoustic on Dookie.
All By Myself (secret song) - Funny, stupid, just what I like.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
In Honor of St. Patrick's Day
I do not condone drinking yourself stupid on this holiday, but just found this a very cool pic that usually only appears on this day.Saturday, March 14, 2009
A Day at the Zoo
So I'm finally dumping videos I had on my new Flip video player. These are from a day in January when Andrea and I went and visited the Lincoln Park Zoo just to get out of the house.
The Night Chicago Dyed
Here's some video of the 2009 dying of the Chicago River. This first is just a shot of all the people there who came to watch. If you can spot the drunk person you win!
This next video explains how they actually dye the river. Two angry anti-EPA people come out in their speed boats and dump orange, yes ORANGE, dye into the Chicago River and because of all the toxins or something (I'm not a dye scientist) it appears Ecto Cooler green.
This is about five minutes later and you'll see that the river now glows in the dark.
This next video explains how they actually dye the river. Two angry anti-EPA people come out in their speed boats and dump orange, yes ORANGE, dye into the Chicago River and because of all the toxins or something (I'm not a dye scientist) it appears Ecto Cooler green.
This is about five minutes later and you'll see that the river now glows in the dark.
Friday, February 27, 2009
New Comedy Podcast For Your Listening Pleasure
So I've been working on a comedy podcast with some friends of mine. The first show we started thinking of we titled So There I Was. The show takes stories sent in by listeners and we then improvise that day in their life, thus making it much funnier. While recording that show we were having so much fun just joking with each other we decided to record that and named it The Extended Cut. Check out both of these shows at FunForMost.com and let us know what you think.
Opening Weekend #40
This week Garrett and I discuss whether Street Fighter the movie has anything to do with the video game and whether the Jonas Brothers or Hanson would win in a fight. Check it out!
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Famous Friends
So my evil twin close friend Greg was chatting with me one day and I mentioned how bored I was at work. He then sent me a word file that was a list of 99 internet videos/memes that everyone should have seen by now. "Boredom cured!" was his response. I thought it was great. The next day he created a website that lists these same items. It has since been mentioned by Funny or Die, Veronica Belmont, Time, and soon the Chicago Tribune. What a pimp.
My favorite? Grape Stomp
My favorite? Grape Stomp
Monday, February 23, 2009
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Goodbye Old Friends
I just found out today that two of my family's pets were put down. One is the above Willow. My parents got him when I was just heading off to college so I only saw him on trips back home. He was a crazy, lovable dog that never wanted anything more than to be pet and played with. Although he licked you like crazy, you could never be mad at him.
The other I didn't have a photo of, but their cat Lucy also passed. She had to be 18 years old, so it wasn't so much a surprise but still difficult. She was a simple cat that would purr almost instantly.
I'll miss them both.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Sunday, February 08, 2009
"Fix You" from Young @ Heart
Just watched this documentary and found this the most moving piece of the film and possibly one of my favorite scenes in a movie.
AdSense At Work
Facebook must think I need some money and that I believe those are their real hands.
Sunday, February 01, 2009
My Top 49 Songs of 2008
So I know we're one month into 2009 already, but I wanted to wait until I held my annual End of the Year Power Hour Countdown before posting this. Why 49? Well I didn't want to repeat any artist twice and I'm not including any mash-ups, and I could only come up with 49. I'm sure I'm missing one that should make this list so let me know and we'll make Adrian Monk happy with a nice, round 50.
Most songs are through imeem and you may have to sign up to listen (it's free, don't worry). The others I either found on YouTube or just linked to the album on Amazon so you could hear the sample. So here they are:
49. The Dirt Whispered - Rise Against
48. Gettin Up - Q-Tip
47. More Bad Times - The Presidents of the United States of America
46. Machine Gun - Portishead
45. Everyone Nose - N.E.R.D.
44. Re-Up Intro - The Clipse
43. Forever - Chris Brown
42. Cappuccino - The Knux
41. ILL Vacation - The Mighty Underdogs
40. War on Machines - Blitzken Trapper
39. Peace Sign / Index Down - Gym Class Heroes
38. Love Lockdown - Kanye West
37. Disloyal Order of Water Buffaloes - Fall Out Boy
36. You Are the Best Thing - Ray LaMontagne
35. Love Like This - Natasha Beningfeld
34. I'm Innocent - Murs
33. Say Hey (I Love You) - Michael Franti & Spearhead
32. Spaceman - The Killers
31. I Gotcha - Killer Mike
30. Money - The Game
29. What Up Man - The Cool Kids
28. American Boy - Estelle
27. Lonely People - B.O.B.
26. On the Edge of a Cliff - The Streets
25. Let's Take a Walk - Raphael Saadiq
24. The Lightning Strike - Snow Patrol
23. Gilt Complex - Sons & Daughters
22. Consoler of the Lonely - The Raconteurs
21. Do the Panic - Phantom Planet
20. After Hours - Living Legends
19. Wait for Me - Jamie Lidell
18. Robots - Flight of the Conchords
17. Grounds for Divorce - Elbow
16. Today's Your Day (Wachagonedu?) - Fatlip
15. Green Light - John Legend
14. Take Off Your Sunglasses - Ezra Furman & The Harpoons
13. Universal Mind Control - Common
12. Blindsided - Bon Iver
11. Hiroshima (B B B Benny Hit His Head) - Ben Folds
10. Death and All His Friends - Coldplay
9. The Re-Arranger - Mates of State
8. Bleed It Out - Linkin Park
7. Let the Beat Build - Lil Wayne
6. Down to Earth - Peter Gabriel
5. Sleepyhead - Passion Pit
4. Sex on Fire - Kings of Leon
3. Hometown - Adele
2. Guarantees - Atmosphere
1. Bixby Canyon Bridge - Death Cab For Cutie
Most songs are through imeem and you may have to sign up to listen (it's free, don't worry). The others I either found on YouTube or just linked to the album on Amazon so you could hear the sample. So here they are:
49. The Dirt Whispered - Rise Against
48. Gettin Up - Q-Tip
47. More Bad Times - The Presidents of the United States of America
46. Machine Gun - Portishead
45. Everyone Nose - N.E.R.D.
44. Re-Up Intro - The Clipse
43. Forever - Chris Brown
42. Cappuccino - The Knux
41. ILL Vacation - The Mighty Underdogs
40. War on Machines - Blitzken Trapper
39. Peace Sign / Index Down - Gym Class Heroes
38. Love Lockdown - Kanye West
37. Disloyal Order of Water Buffaloes - Fall Out Boy
36. You Are the Best Thing - Ray LaMontagne
35. Love Like This - Natasha Beningfeld
34. I'm Innocent - Murs
33. Say Hey (I Love You) - Michael Franti & Spearhead
32. Spaceman - The Killers
31. I Gotcha - Killer Mike
30. Money - The Game
29. What Up Man - The Cool Kids
28. American Boy - Estelle
27. Lonely People - B.O.B.
26. On the Edge of a Cliff - The Streets
25. Let's Take a Walk - Raphael Saadiq
24. The Lightning Strike - Snow Patrol
23. Gilt Complex - Sons & Daughters
22. Consoler of the Lonely - The Raconteurs
21. Do the Panic - Phantom Planet
20. After Hours - Living Legends
19. Wait for Me - Jamie Lidell
18. Robots - Flight of the Conchords
17. Grounds for Divorce - Elbow
16. Today's Your Day (Wachagonedu?) - Fatlip
15. Green Light - John Legend
14. Take Off Your Sunglasses - Ezra Furman & The Harpoons
13. Universal Mind Control - Common
12. Blindsided - Bon Iver
11. Hiroshima (B B B Benny Hit His Head) - Ben Folds
10. Death and All His Friends - Coldplay
9. The Re-Arranger - Mates of State
8. Bleed It Out - Linkin Park
7. Let the Beat Build - Lil Wayne
6. Down to Earth - Peter Gabriel
5. Sleepyhead - Passion Pit
4. Sex on Fire - Kings of Leon
3. Hometown - Adele
2. Guarantees - Atmosphere
1. Bixby Canyon Bridge - Death Cab For Cutie
Friday, January 30, 2009
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Monday, January 26, 2009
Most Anticipated of 2009
While I'm on this movie kick, I thought I'd mention some films coming out this year of the Ox.
10. The Wolfman
Benicio del Toro may play a great Che, but based on the picture above he may become the new Hannibal Lecter.
9. Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs
This was the only picture I could find online. I was a huge fan of this story as a kid and look forward to seeing what they'll do to it for a film. It's about a town that doesn't have groceries, their food comes from the weather. It rains pancakes, snows mashed potatoes, and foggy pea soup. Two big problems, one it's computer animated. I wished it could've been live action. Imagine seeing actual food falling from the skies. The other problem is based on this photo I'm seeing nothing about food and that doesn't make me too happy.
8. The Brothers Bloom
I was a very big fan of Brick and look forward to seeing what this director can do with a story about some con men that may have gotten themselves into something deeper than they think.
7. I Love You, Man
Jason Segal was great in Forgetting Sarah Marshall and I really look forward to him teaming up with Paul Rudd in a film about a guy getting married who has no guy friends and needs a best man.
6. Inglorious Bastards
Quentin Tarantino's lastest film involves the Nazis somehow and Brad Pitt. I'm a fan of all his movies, yes even Jackie Brown, and look forward to see what he does with a film not set in the 1970s.
5. Public Enemies
Not only was I able to watch this being filmed in Chicago, just a few blocks north of where I live, it also stars Johnny Depp and Christian Bale. Oh and it's Directed by Michael Mann. So it's pretty much Heat in the the 1920s. Yeah, sounds amazing.
4. Where the Wild Things Are
A classic children's story, made using live action, directed by Spike Jonze, and scripted by Dave Eggers. Excuse me while I wipe the tears from my face and the urine from my pants.
3. Terminator Salvation
Say what you will, but Terminator 3 stunk and I didn't want anymore Skynet robots to be in a film However, after seeing the trailer and my boy Christian Bale as the lead, I'm very pumped.
2. Star Trek
JJ Abrams not only recreated TV with Lost, he also brought the Mission Impossible series back to life with MI:3. I can't wait to see what he does with one of the most loved series alive.
1. X-Men Origins: Wolverine
No pictures/posters for this film yet, but the trailer is online. X-Men 3 stunk, I'm sorry, it stunk. And that really upset me. The first two were so great I was hoping they released one every year. Well instead, they're going to delve into each charater's past and they're staring with the bread and butter, Wolverine. Not only does Hugh Jackman return, but Liev Schrieber stars as his brother (also known as The Beast) and we have a guest appearance by Gambit.
10. The Wolfman
Benicio del Toro may play a great Che, but based on the picture above he may become the new Hannibal Lecter.9. Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs
This was the only picture I could find online. I was a huge fan of this story as a kid and look forward to seeing what they'll do to it for a film. It's about a town that doesn't have groceries, their food comes from the weather. It rains pancakes, snows mashed potatoes, and foggy pea soup. Two big problems, one it's computer animated. I wished it could've been live action. Imagine seeing actual food falling from the skies. The other problem is based on this photo I'm seeing nothing about food and that doesn't make me too happy.8. The Brothers Bloom
I was a very big fan of Brick and look forward to seeing what this director can do with a story about some con men that may have gotten themselves into something deeper than they think.
7. I Love You, Man
Jason Segal was great in Forgetting Sarah Marshall and I really look forward to him teaming up with Paul Rudd in a film about a guy getting married who has no guy friends and needs a best man.6. Inglorious Bastards
Quentin Tarantino's lastest film involves the Nazis somehow and Brad Pitt. I'm a fan of all his movies, yes even Jackie Brown, and look forward to see what he does with a film not set in the 1970s.5. Public Enemies
Not only was I able to watch this being filmed in Chicago, just a few blocks north of where I live, it also stars Johnny Depp and Christian Bale. Oh and it's Directed by Michael Mann. So it's pretty much Heat in the the 1920s. Yeah, sounds amazing.4. Where the Wild Things Are
A classic children's story, made using live action, directed by Spike Jonze, and scripted by Dave Eggers. Excuse me while I wipe the tears from my face and the urine from my pants.3. Terminator Salvation
Say what you will, but Terminator 3 stunk and I didn't want anymore Skynet robots to be in a film However, after seeing the trailer and my boy Christian Bale as the lead, I'm very pumped.2. Star Trek
JJ Abrams not only recreated TV with Lost, he also brought the Mission Impossible series back to life with MI:3. I can't wait to see what he does with one of the most loved series alive.1. X-Men Origins: Wolverine
No pictures/posters for this film yet, but the trailer is online. X-Men 3 stunk, I'm sorry, it stunk. And that really upset me. The first two were so great I was hoping they released one every year. Well instead, they're going to delve into each charater's past and they're staring with the bread and butter, Wolverine. Not only does Hugh Jackman return, but Liev Schrieber stars as his brother (also known as The Beast) and we have a guest appearance by Gambit.
Oscar Buzz
Seeing as I do a podcast about films, my Netflix queue is almost 500 movies deep, and every time I see my friends I'm asking what the last movie they saw was, I've been getting a lot of questions on my thoughts of the Oscar nominations. So here they are, each of the "major" categories.
Actor in a Leading Role
Richard Jenkins - The Visitor
I'm excited about this one as Mr. Jenkins has always been someone I appreciate in films as a character actor and for him to receive such high kudos is great.
Frank Langella - Frost/Nixon
I've yet to see this film but have read that he put a lot of time into this film. I think it's a little handicapped in his favor as he also played this part in the stage production.
Sean Penn - Milk
I felt he was robbed the year he played in I Am Sam and not glad he won for Mystic River. Although I haven't seen the film, I've heard he's amazing.
Brad Pitt - Curious Case of Benjamin Button
This one surprised me and I'm not too happy about it. Of all the actors in this film, he was my least fave. No mannerisms, too simple, almost a blank slate. Not sure how that warrants good acting.
Mickey Rourke - The Wrestler
This is the one I'm rooting for. I've yet to see this film but for all the praise it's receiving and to see the return of Mickey Rourke makes me happy.
Missing: Clint Eastwood and Colin Farrell
Actor in a Supporting Role
Josh Brolin - Milk
Haven't read enough about him in this film so I'll be surprised if he wins.
Robert Downey Jr - Tropic Thunder
I think this is the academy's response to people saying year after year that comedies get screwed at the Oscars. No chance he'll win, but glad to see him nominated.
Philip Seymour Hoffman - Doubt
Another film I've yet to see but have been told is amazing and well acted by all.
Heath Ledger - The Dark Knight
The runaway favorite and, I hope, winner. After just re-watching this in IMAX, I'm amazed at how I completely forget it's Heath Ledger and can only see him as The Joker.
Michael Shannon - Revolutionary Road
Another film I really want to see, but have yet to, and a role that I've been reading/hearing about as one of the best.
Missing: Eddie Marsan from Happy-Go-Lucky. You'll never look at your rearview mirrors the same again.
Actress In a Leading Role
Anne Hathaway - Rachel Getting Married
I hate to keep typing this, but another film I've yet to see. From what I've read an amazing performance that I could see taking home the statue.
Angelina Jolie - The Changeling
After not enjoying Mystic River, Clint Eastwood's prior film, I didn't have an interest in this. I've heard Ms. Jolie is amazing, but not strong enough to take the win.
Melissa Leo - Frozen River
Much like Mr. Jenkins for The Visitor, this is a role that I'm glad to see nominated. As this film was only released to 3 theaters I don't think I would've had a chance to see it but have heard nothing but rave reviews. She's the Cinderella story.
Meryl Streep - Doubt
If Meryl Streep is nominated for an Oscar, wait, she's always nominated. She's just that good.
Kate Winslet - The Reader
Looking forward to seeing this film and glad to see Ricky Jervais predicted it right on Extras by saying that she would have to do a holocaust film to be nominated.
Missing: Sally Hawkins from Happy-Go-Lucky. A role that you'll either love or hate, but won't forget.
Actress in a Supporting Role
Amy Adams - Doubt
I love that she's becoming more and more respected, but I don't think she'll win this one.
Penelope Cruz - Vicky Christina Barcelona
From what I've been reading, she's apparently the clear winner. Didn't see the film so can't say much.
Viola Davis - Doubt
Also from what I've been reading, she should be the winner but her time on screen is so minimal it might not win many votes.
Taraji P. Henson - The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
I loved her in Hustle and Flow and thought she did a good job in Button, but not sure if she can win it.
Marisa Tomei - The Wrestler
How far we've come since My Cousin Vinny. Having not seen the film, I can't really comment but I don't see her name coming up much.
Missing: Mila Kunis in Forgetting Sarah Marshall. Say what you will, but I found her charming and beautiful in this role.
Best Picture
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Great film but not ground breaking enough to merit the win IMO.
Frost/Nixon
I'm surprised with the so-so reviews how well this is doing, but I don't think it'll win.
Milk
From what I've read, just a beautiful film that I could see winning.
The Reader
Haven't heard much about this except for the acting, so no reaction from me.
Slumdog Millionaire
Another film that everyone and their brother is talking about. Easily could take it all, but there may just be a surprise this year.
Missing: Wall-E. Although it chose to go with Animated Feature (gauranteeing an Oscar) this film was so great it should've been nominated here. Also, The Dark Knight. Based on reviews alone, this has to be better than Frost/Nixon. I don't recall seeing scars on our former president.
Other thoughts:
Chistopher Nolan should've been nominated for best director and The Dark Knight should've been nominated for best original screenplay.
I hope Man on Wire wins best documentary and is a must-watch.
Actor in a Leading Role
Richard Jenkins - The Visitor
I'm excited about this one as Mr. Jenkins has always been someone I appreciate in films as a character actor and for him to receive such high kudos is great.
Frank Langella - Frost/Nixon
I've yet to see this film but have read that he put a lot of time into this film. I think it's a little handicapped in his favor as he also played this part in the stage production.
Sean Penn - Milk
I felt he was robbed the year he played in I Am Sam and not glad he won for Mystic River. Although I haven't seen the film, I've heard he's amazing.
Brad Pitt - Curious Case of Benjamin Button
This one surprised me and I'm not too happy about it. Of all the actors in this film, he was my least fave. No mannerisms, too simple, almost a blank slate. Not sure how that warrants good acting.
Mickey Rourke - The Wrestler
This is the one I'm rooting for. I've yet to see this film but for all the praise it's receiving and to see the return of Mickey Rourke makes me happy.
Missing: Clint Eastwood and Colin Farrell
Actor in a Supporting Role
Josh Brolin - Milk
Haven't read enough about him in this film so I'll be surprised if he wins.
Robert Downey Jr - Tropic Thunder
I think this is the academy's response to people saying year after year that comedies get screwed at the Oscars. No chance he'll win, but glad to see him nominated.
Philip Seymour Hoffman - Doubt
Another film I've yet to see but have been told is amazing and well acted by all.
Heath Ledger - The Dark Knight
The runaway favorite and, I hope, winner. After just re-watching this in IMAX, I'm amazed at how I completely forget it's Heath Ledger and can only see him as The Joker.
Michael Shannon - Revolutionary Road
Another film I really want to see, but have yet to, and a role that I've been reading/hearing about as one of the best.
Missing: Eddie Marsan from Happy-Go-Lucky. You'll never look at your rearview mirrors the same again.
Actress In a Leading Role
Anne Hathaway - Rachel Getting Married
I hate to keep typing this, but another film I've yet to see. From what I've read an amazing performance that I could see taking home the statue.
Angelina Jolie - The Changeling
After not enjoying Mystic River, Clint Eastwood's prior film, I didn't have an interest in this. I've heard Ms. Jolie is amazing, but not strong enough to take the win.
Melissa Leo - Frozen River
Much like Mr. Jenkins for The Visitor, this is a role that I'm glad to see nominated. As this film was only released to 3 theaters I don't think I would've had a chance to see it but have heard nothing but rave reviews. She's the Cinderella story.
Meryl Streep - Doubt
If Meryl Streep is nominated for an Oscar, wait, she's always nominated. She's just that good.
Kate Winslet - The Reader
Looking forward to seeing this film and glad to see Ricky Jervais predicted it right on Extras by saying that she would have to do a holocaust film to be nominated.
Missing: Sally Hawkins from Happy-Go-Lucky. A role that you'll either love or hate, but won't forget.
Actress in a Supporting Role
Amy Adams - Doubt
I love that she's becoming more and more respected, but I don't think she'll win this one.
Penelope Cruz - Vicky Christina Barcelona
From what I've been reading, she's apparently the clear winner. Didn't see the film so can't say much.
Viola Davis - Doubt
Also from what I've been reading, she should be the winner but her time on screen is so minimal it might not win many votes.
Taraji P. Henson - The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
I loved her in Hustle and Flow and thought she did a good job in Button, but not sure if she can win it.
Marisa Tomei - The Wrestler
How far we've come since My Cousin Vinny. Having not seen the film, I can't really comment but I don't see her name coming up much.
Missing: Mila Kunis in Forgetting Sarah Marshall. Say what you will, but I found her charming and beautiful in this role.
Best Picture
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Great film but not ground breaking enough to merit the win IMO.
Frost/Nixon
I'm surprised with the so-so reviews how well this is doing, but I don't think it'll win.
Milk
From what I've read, just a beautiful film that I could see winning.
The Reader
Haven't heard much about this except for the acting, so no reaction from me.
Slumdog Millionaire
Another film that everyone and their brother is talking about. Easily could take it all, but there may just be a surprise this year.
Missing: Wall-E. Although it chose to go with Animated Feature (gauranteeing an Oscar) this film was so great it should've been nominated here. Also, The Dark Knight. Based on reviews alone, this has to be better than Frost/Nixon. I don't recall seeing scars on our former president.
Other thoughts:
Chistopher Nolan should've been nominated for best director and The Dark Knight should've been nominated for best original screenplay.
I hope Man on Wire wins best documentary and is a must-watch.
Friday, January 09, 2009
Opening Weekend #32
This week Garrett and I discuss the problems of marriage. Whether if you're ready for kids, if your best friend has their wedding on the same day, and if your evil twin that died in the womb wants to take over your body. I think those are related. Check it out!
Opening Weekend
Opening Weekend
Tuesday, January 06, 2009
Thursday, January 01, 2009
My Top Ten Films of 2008
As another year comes to an end, and every other website on the planet is having their "Best Of..." lists, I thought I would join in as well. Becasue, as everyone knows, bloggers think their opinions matter more than everyone else's. So feel free to comment and let me know if there are some obvious omissions.
10. Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day
Frances McDormand, Amy Adams, and Lee Pace have some fun at a lingerie showing in old timey England.
9. Be Kind Rewind
Sweded films have become a new obsession of mine and I hope to do a Fight Club version myself.
8. Happy-Go-Lucky
This movie will make you think "Man, I wish I was as happy as her" or "She is so goddman annoying!" Either way, it leads to a good post-movie conversation. Oh, and you'll never think of your car's mirrors the same again.
7. Forgetting Sarah Marshall
Never heard of Russell Brand prior to this and he has the best line in the film. Also, any film that can make me think Mila Kunis is a good actress has done something right.
6. Man on Wire
A film about the twin towers that doesn't even mention 9/11 but can still cause me to get teary eyed is just plain beautiful.
5. Ghost Town
Ricky Gervais proves that not only is he a great lead for films, he also can play a lovable character. And extra kudos for taking The Sixth Sense and actually making it funny.
4. Iron Man
I thought Robert Downey Jr was a badass back when he was doing Elton John music videos, this just confirmed it for the rest of the world. Also, an actual decent love story is brewing here.
3. The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
A great story of one man's life that is also shown with amazing visuals. You'll question whether you're living the life you wanted to as well as your sexuality when you see Brad Pitt with his shirt off 17 times.
2. Wall-E
After Ratatouille I was nervous Pixar had lost me, but they came roaring back with an amazing film that had me in awe for the first 20 minutes, laughing after that, and then wiping tears from my face in the end. +10 extra points for a great song by Peter Gabriel
1. The Dark Knight
Call me a fan boy or claim I have bias for living in Chicago and my response will be "Why so serious?" Having watched it in IMAX and being blown away by the visuals, the opening bank robbery is one of the best heists in a long while and the many scenes with the Joker are just excellent.
Films that didn't make the list that I also saw:
Pineapple Express - Not that funny except when Danny McBride is on screen, which is very little
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull - Why were there CGI gophers? WHY?!
Definitely, Maybe - I thought with a great cast would come a great movie. I was definitely wrong, maybe.
Flash of Genius - Not bad, just predictable. Greg Kinnear plays these roles well.
10. Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day
Frances McDormand, Amy Adams, and Lee Pace have some fun at a lingerie showing in old timey England.
9. Be Kind Rewind
Sweded films have become a new obsession of mine and I hope to do a Fight Club version myself.
8. Happy-Go-Lucky
This movie will make you think "Man, I wish I was as happy as her" or "She is so goddman annoying!" Either way, it leads to a good post-movie conversation. Oh, and you'll never think of your car's mirrors the same again.
7. Forgetting Sarah Marshall
Never heard of Russell Brand prior to this and he has the best line in the film. Also, any film that can make me think Mila Kunis is a good actress has done something right.
6. Man on Wire
A film about the twin towers that doesn't even mention 9/11 but can still cause me to get teary eyed is just plain beautiful.
5. Ghost Town
Ricky Gervais proves that not only is he a great lead for films, he also can play a lovable character. And extra kudos for taking The Sixth Sense and actually making it funny.
4. Iron Man
I thought Robert Downey Jr was a badass back when he was doing Elton John music videos, this just confirmed it for the rest of the world. Also, an actual decent love story is brewing here.
3. The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
A great story of one man's life that is also shown with amazing visuals. You'll question whether you're living the life you wanted to as well as your sexuality when you see Brad Pitt with his shirt off 17 times.
2. Wall-E
After Ratatouille I was nervous Pixar had lost me, but they came roaring back with an amazing film that had me in awe for the first 20 minutes, laughing after that, and then wiping tears from my face in the end. +10 extra points for a great song by Peter Gabriel
1. The Dark Knight
Call me a fan boy or claim I have bias for living in Chicago and my response will be "Why so serious?" Having watched it in IMAX and being blown away by the visuals, the opening bank robbery is one of the best heists in a long while and the many scenes with the Joker are just excellent.
Films that didn't make the list that I also saw:
Pineapple Express - Not that funny except when Danny McBride is on screen, which is very little
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull - Why were there CGI gophers? WHY?!
Definitely, Maybe - I thought with a great cast would come a great movie. I was definitely wrong, maybe.
Flash of Genius - Not bad, just predictable. Greg Kinnear plays these roles well.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Ho Ho Ho Hat
Flickr has an easter egg (or is it stocking stuffer this time of year) that's fun. If you add a note to a photo and type in "ho ho ho hat" or "ho ho ho beard" it will add a Santa hat and beard to a photo. Start having fun tagging those interwebs.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Opening Weekend #31
In this week's episode Garrett and I discuss the good and the bad of the Seven Pounds trailer, what the heck rats have to do with weather in the Tale of Despereaux, and whether Jim Carrey has the curse of Mike Meyers and Eddie Murphy.
Opening Weekend
Opening Weekend
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Top 20 Mugshots of the Year
With all the "Top..." lists out there right now, this has to be one of my favorites. The Smoking gun has posted their top 20 mugshots of the year. Below is my fave.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Cruisin' for a Bruisin'
So my fiance and I recently went on a cruise of the eastern Caribbean. You can check out the photos here, here, here, here, and here. I wanted to give all of my blog followers a little gift though. Below is a landscape photo that my buddy Garrett stitched together from four photos I took. I know, you're jealous.
Friday, December 05, 2008
Opening Weekend #29
This week Garrett and I aren't too happy with the movies coming out and don't understand how/why Punisher: War Zone was even created.
Opening Weekend
Opening Weekend
Thursday, December 04, 2008
Just When I Finally Thought I was Over Video Games
Looks like I won't be doing anything the month of June
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Opening Weekend Episode 27
This week Garrett and I debate on whether the "vampires" in Twilight are truly vampires, as well as the return of Animaniacs. Check it out!
Opening Weekend
Opening Weekend
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Friday, November 07, 2008
Opening Weekend #25
This week Garrett and I come back from a frighteningly slow Halloween weekend hoping that Bernie Mac, energy drinks, and a stupid dance song can revive the weekend. Check it out!
Opening Weekend
Opening Weekend
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
Real Change We Can Believe In
Great read from Radley Balko of Reason on how the Republicrats and Demicans are making it more and more difficult for a third party to have any chance in government. This part really blew my mind about Libertarian candidate Bob Barr not appearing on the Texas ballot:
Meanwhile, in Texas, the tables were turned. Both the Republican and Democratic parties somehow missed that state's deadline to include Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.) and Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) on the Texas ballot. Barr's campaign sued, noting the equal protection problems with allowing the two major parties to skirt campaign rules while holding third party candidates to the letter of the law. Barr was right—Obama and McCain should have been kept off the Texas ballot. But Barr's suit was dismissed by the Texas Supreme Court without comment. Apparently, the Democratic and Republican parties are, to borrow a now-tired phrase, "too big to fail." They're allowed to break the rules.Also, don't get me started on Prop 8.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Opening Weekend Episode 24
This week Garrett and I battle it out over whether Halloween can possibly help the horrible Haunting of Molly Hartley and if the trend of Kevin Smith movies doing poor in the box office will change.
Opening Weekend
Opening Weekend
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
So Long DVD
I have a Netflix account, I will soon purchase an Xbox 360, and my use of DVD player will be only as a foot rest.
http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/10/29/hd-netflix-streaming-comes-to-xbox-360-first
http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/10/29/hd-netflix-streaming-comes-to-xbox-360-first
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Opening Weekend #23
Posting this a little bit late. Now you can see the actual results and compare LIVE while you listen! This week Garrett and I discuss Jigsaw puzzles (the bad kind), cops (the bad kind), and high school musicals (the baddest kind). Check it out!
Opening Weekend
Opening Weekend
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Monday, October 20, 2008
Because There Aren't Enough People in Jail Already
An 83-year-old woman may soon go to jail because a bedroom in her house is "supposed" to be a garage.
What does the city gain from this? No one has complained about the house, there are no threats of depreciating value, and it's stood fine for 30 years. Is a survivor of breast cancer and brain surgery needed to have this financial pressure put upon her?
"It's traumatic. It's like tearing my house down," she said. "I bought this place 30 years ago, and it was always a bedroom. And now they are trying to shove this down my throat."So there was no problem for the past 30 years, but somehow a concern has risen in 18 months that the house will fall on her or her neighbors? And why "can't" they "do that"? You didn't enforce it for 30 years and none of her neighbors have complained, is it really necessary to enforce her to change or face jail?
City building and safety director Tom Hartung said that an illegally converted garage poses health and safety risks but that going to court is a last resort.
"To say we should not enforce the ordinances based on the demographics of the owner of the property is unrealistic," he said. "We can't do that."
Hartung said that in his 25-year career, he's seen only one person jailed over a violation.
Her troubles began when a code enforcement officer spotted a light shining from her garage into the street, a code violation. He noticed her trash cans in front of the house (another violation) and weeds poking through the concrete (yet another one).Again, no complaints from neighbors but a nosy code enforcement officer. Officer? Really? Is that part of the job title to make sure no one questions you without getting arrested? Are trash cans and weeds more a problem than let's say meth use and armed robbery? Do we really need to focus on these items?
"I never had a garage," said Camargo, who parks in the driveway. "I don't need one or want one."Too bad! You're going to make one for your home and love it! Or go to jail! This really does sound like they're doing this for her best interests.
What does the city gain from this? No one has complained about the house, there are no threats of depreciating value, and it's stood fine for 30 years. Is a survivor of breast cancer and brain surgery needed to have this financial pressure put upon her?
Why the Intertubes Could Really Help or Destroy SNL
So one of the big stories for Monday was Sarah Palin's appearance on Saturday Night Live. I overheard on TWIT that her skit was actually posted online before it even aired in the west coast. With NBC posting SNL on Hulu and NBC.com, this could either save the show or lead it to it's downfall.
Scenario 1: SNL becomes one of the best shows on television.
SNL is a sketch show. You don't need to watch one episode to the next to understand what's going on, hell you don't have to watch an entire episode. And most people don't. If you've noticed, the news isn't talking about any other skit from this weekend's show. I can also vouch that if it weren't for the few Macgruber skits, it may have been some of the worst television in a long time. How can Hulu or NBC.com help this? Simple. Because SNL is skit based, they could record the number of hits certain skits receive and the most watched, higest rated, and most emailed would easily tell them what are the "best". This would allow them to keep the writers of those skits on staff, the actors in those scenes, and focus on the type of material that works. SNL has a better edge over other shows in that it would be difficult to tell from an episode of Lost of House which scene works or what dialog grabs a viewer's attention as they're whole 30-60 minute episodes.
Scenario 2: SNL has two more seasons and then no more
The problem that could occur is that SNL, NBC, and GE realize that only one or two skits a show are being viewed online or emailed. This would then cause them to question whether to keep a staff of writers and actors for a show that hardly anyone watches live and only a handfull of scenes are viewed online. This would lead SNL to become a YouTube member that people could subscribe to. Funny or Die and Ask Uncle Jay have perfected this by releasing material they know works, in small amounts, to a very large viewership. Lost and House wouldn't have these issues as they contain stories that overlap from episode to episode and require a constant viewership.
I hope scenario 1 pans out as SNL is one of the longest running shows on television for a reason and one of the main reasons I went into comedy. If Lorne Michaels accepts this new digital age and realizes the power of social media, we could see some the best comedy in a long time.
Scenario 1: SNL becomes one of the best shows on television.
SNL is a sketch show. You don't need to watch one episode to the next to understand what's going on, hell you don't have to watch an entire episode. And most people don't. If you've noticed, the news isn't talking about any other skit from this weekend's show. I can also vouch that if it weren't for the few Macgruber skits, it may have been some of the worst television in a long time. How can Hulu or NBC.com help this? Simple. Because SNL is skit based, they could record the number of hits certain skits receive and the most watched, higest rated, and most emailed would easily tell them what are the "best". This would allow them to keep the writers of those skits on staff, the actors in those scenes, and focus on the type of material that works. SNL has a better edge over other shows in that it would be difficult to tell from an episode of Lost of House which scene works or what dialog grabs a viewer's attention as they're whole 30-60 minute episodes.
Scenario 2: SNL has two more seasons and then no more
The problem that could occur is that SNL, NBC, and GE realize that only one or two skits a show are being viewed online or emailed. This would then cause them to question whether to keep a staff of writers and actors for a show that hardly anyone watches live and only a handfull of scenes are viewed online. This would lead SNL to become a YouTube member that people could subscribe to. Funny or Die and Ask Uncle Jay have perfected this by releasing material they know works, in small amounts, to a very large viewership. Lost and House wouldn't have these issues as they contain stories that overlap from episode to episode and require a constant viewership.
I hope scenario 1 pans out as SNL is one of the longest running shows on television for a reason and one of the main reasons I went into comedy. If Lorne Michaels accepts this new digital age and realizes the power of social media, we could see some the best comedy in a long time.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Opening Weekend #22
In this week's episode Garrett and I discuss Sex, Bees, W, and Payne. Sounds like my therapy sessions. Check it out!
Opening Weekend
Opening Weekend
Monday, October 13, 2008
Friday, October 10, 2008
18th Century Humor
One of the pleasures I see when coming home from work is passing The Onion newspaper dispenser right by my place. Today's was like finding that old MVP baseball card. The Onion has decided to run a special edition from the archives of their 1700s. Check it out here
Opening Weekend Episode 21
We're old enough to drink now! We celebrate by debating on who's better for Meg Ryan: Russell Crowe or Dennis Quaid. Check it out here
Thursday, October 02, 2008
Rescue is the new Bailout
List of Senators that voted against the bailout rescue:
Allard (R)
Barasso (R)
Brownback (R)
Bunning (R)
Cantwell (D)
Cochran (R)
Crapo (R)
DeMint (R)
Dole (R)
Dorgan (D)
Enzi (R)
Feingold (D)
Inhofe (R)
Johnson (D)
Landrieu (D)
Nelson (FL) (D)
Roberts (R)
Sanders (I)
Sessions (R)
Shelby (R)
Stabenow (D)
Tester (D)
Vitter (R)
Wicker (R)
Wyden (D)
Allard (R)
Barasso (R)
Brownback (R)
Bunning (R)
Cantwell (D)
Cochran (R)
Crapo (R)
DeMint (R)
Dole (R)
Dorgan (D)
Enzi (R)
Feingold (D)
Inhofe (R)
Johnson (D)
Landrieu (D)
Nelson (FL) (D)
Roberts (R)
Sanders (I)
Sessions (R)
Shelby (R)
Stabenow (D)
Tester (D)
Vitter (R)
Wicker (R)
Wyden (D)
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Politics Brings Out the Best In Us
Two status I observed from my friends on Facebook:
Obama is a BITCH...if your support him your a BITCH too
If you support Sarah Palin, you should be murdered in front of your children. Let me be clear: You. Should Be Murdered. In Front Of Your Children.
Obama is a BITCH...if your support him your a BITCH too
If you support Sarah Palin, you should be murdered in front of your children. Let me be clear: You. Should Be Murdered. In Front Of Your Children.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Monday, September 22, 2008
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Thursday, September 11, 2008
In Rememberance
I didn't plan on writing anything about 9/11 today. I didn't know anyone in the towers, I only have a couple friends from New York state, and I was in small town Jackson, MI when it happened. But when I saw this picture today on NASA's website, it brought back crazy feelings.
I recall being in high school Government class and the instructor talking about how everyone in his generation recalls two events (depending on how old they were): 1. the moon landing and 2. JFK's assassination. I wondered if anything would happen to my generation. My parents, both fairly young, had no recollection of those two events and never talked about an important part of history except perhaps the Challenger explosion. Well, now I'm one of those people that'll have a moment in life I'll never forget where I was.
I had been driving to a city college I was attending right out of high school to save money for a transfer to a larger school. In my small town, and in many small towns, Bob and Tom had a popular radio show. I was listening in on that day and recall in the middle of an interview with some comedian Bob said a plane had crashed into one of the World Trade Center towers and as they received more info they would tell us. At the time I didn't think it was a commercial airplane. His tone made it sound like a plane carrying 5-10 passengers. This may be due to the fact that they had as little knowledge of the incident as the rest of us. As the show went on, just before I got to the parking lot, they mentioned that another plane had crashed. I turned off the radio, parked the car, and walked straight to the college cafeteria. There was a group of 12 or so people all just sitting and watching the TV in shock. I honestly felt the way it looks in movies: there's some national tragedy and everyone is silent just staring at the television. I don't recall any conversations besides the utterances of "My God" or "Wow" and many of us just standing and waiting. Waiting for something to happen or someone to tell us what the hell was going on.
None of us went to class and a few more people came in and watched the television. I remember sitting there with people I never thought I would be next to: an older, hispanic woman who was one of the cafeteria workers, a 50-year-old man who had decided to go back to school after serving this country and working for many years, and a young man around my age who had recently just enrolled in the National Reserve. We didn't talk much, that was until the third plane hit the Pentagon. This caused many people to panic and others to pray. I myself was just in shock and called my parents.
I don't recall too much after that except going home to watch the news for the most hours I have ever in my life...total. It was a scary time in which I could honestly say I had no idea what was going on in the world. My heart goes out to all the families that lost someone on that day and may we learn from this event that life can be short and to truly appreciate what one has. I know I did that day.
I recall being in high school Government class and the instructor talking about how everyone in his generation recalls two events (depending on how old they were): 1. the moon landing and 2. JFK's assassination. I wondered if anything would happen to my generation. My parents, both fairly young, had no recollection of those two events and never talked about an important part of history except perhaps the Challenger explosion. Well, now I'm one of those people that'll have a moment in life I'll never forget where I was.I had been driving to a city college I was attending right out of high school to save money for a transfer to a larger school. In my small town, and in many small towns, Bob and Tom had a popular radio show. I was listening in on that day and recall in the middle of an interview with some comedian Bob said a plane had crashed into one of the World Trade Center towers and as they received more info they would tell us. At the time I didn't think it was a commercial airplane. His tone made it sound like a plane carrying 5-10 passengers. This may be due to the fact that they had as little knowledge of the incident as the rest of us. As the show went on, just before I got to the parking lot, they mentioned that another plane had crashed. I turned off the radio, parked the car, and walked straight to the college cafeteria. There was a group of 12 or so people all just sitting and watching the TV in shock. I honestly felt the way it looks in movies: there's some national tragedy and everyone is silent just staring at the television. I don't recall any conversations besides the utterances of "My God" or "Wow" and many of us just standing and waiting. Waiting for something to happen or someone to tell us what the hell was going on.
None of us went to class and a few more people came in and watched the television. I remember sitting there with people I never thought I would be next to: an older, hispanic woman who was one of the cafeteria workers, a 50-year-old man who had decided to go back to school after serving this country and working for many years, and a young man around my age who had recently just enrolled in the National Reserve. We didn't talk much, that was until the third plane hit the Pentagon. This caused many people to panic and others to pray. I myself was just in shock and called my parents.
I don't recall too much after that except going home to watch the news for the most hours I have ever in my life...total. It was a scary time in which I could honestly say I had no idea what was going on in the world. My heart goes out to all the families that lost someone on that day and may we learn from this event that life can be short and to truly appreciate what one has. I know I did that day.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
Sunday, September 07, 2008
Is This Legal?
The very little I know about football is that you can't actually shoot people on the field. Well, I just saw this video online and it seems like an obvious no-no but damn is it smart. What say you?
Awesome Football Trick Play - Watch more free videos
Awesome Football Trick Play - Watch more free videos
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Some Fun Facts
45: number of months Sarah Palin has been pregnant
20: number of months Sarah Palin has been governor
9,000: population of Wasilla, AK the town of which Palin was mayor
15,000: the number of people at the rally announcing her nomination as VP
7: number of people in the Palin family
7: number of houses John and Cindy McCain own
72: years that John McCain has been alive
49: years that Alaska has been a state
1: number of times McCain and Palin had met before today
20 million: the number of dollars that the city of Wasilla was left in
debt when Palin's term as mayor ended
When John McCain started his campaign, Sarah Palin was not yet governor of Alaska.
20: number of months Sarah Palin has been governor
9,000: population of Wasilla, AK the town of which Palin was mayor
15,000: the number of people at the rally announcing her nomination as VP
7: number of people in the Palin family
7: number of houses John and Cindy McCain own
72: years that John McCain has been alive
49: years that Alaska has been a state
1: number of times McCain and Palin had met before today
20 million: the number of dollars that the city of Wasilla was left in
debt when Palin's term as mayor ended
When John McCain started his campaign, Sarah Palin was not yet governor of Alaska.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Just as Greasy as Us, eh?
Growing up in Michigan, it was tradition that when immature boys and girls became mature 19-year-olds we took a one hour migration past the Motown City, under Lake St. Clare, and into the wonderful land of Canada. Besides the great beer, mounties, and hilarious people to come from the Red, White, and Never Blue there's been one thing I had yet to try: poutine. It's the most American sounding thing they have in Canada. A bunch of fries covered in cheese curds and gravy. Well last night at The Gage I was finally able to cross this off my Canadian Bucket List and add a few more points to Canada's love meter. It was amazing to say the least. The Gage dressed them up a little with nicer cheese and elk ragu...that's right, elk. I strongly suggest trying some when you have the chance.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Don't Let the Door Bang You on the Ass
Jay Mariotti was the head sports writer for the Chicago Sun-Times. He recently retired from the paper, via an email, and said on television that the newspaper was dead. Well Roger Ebert wasn't so pleased and has a few words for the man. He also includes this amazing photo:
Look at that mullet!
Look at that mullet!
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Group Dinner 2: Asian Boogaloo
So my girlfriend and I have gotten together with her cousin and his girlfriend once before and attempted to cook a meal. I didn't take photos the first time because I was scared it would end up with a bunch of burnt food and the final being a group shot of us around a bucket of KFC. Well it went amazing and we decided to meet up again. This time we also choose a theme of Asian food. Andrea and I decided to do an appetizer and dessert, while her cousin Andy and his girlfriend Kristin made the main entrees. It went amazing and you can see all the photos here.
See Films Differently
Volkswagen has been a proud supporter of independent film for some time and they have a great series of ads in which people give VERY alternate takes on popular films (Toy Story, Die Hard, Star Wars, etc) that actually make sense. Check them out here.
Monday, August 25, 2008
My Little Ponies I Would've Owned
An artist by the name of Mari Kasurinen has created a set of My Little Pony dolls based around movie characters.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Selections from H.P. Lovecraft's brief tenure as a Whitman's Sampler copywriter
A fun read for Friday. An excerpt:
Toffee Nugget
Few men dare ask the question "What is toffee, exactly?" All those who have investigated this substance are now either dead or insane.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Thursday, August 14, 2008
My New Favorite Blog
My girlfriend passed along this blog to me. It's all about cakes that are just horrible. So far my favorite is below. How/why was this made?
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Shark Week
So one of my girlfriend's co-workers created this video from footage he shot while scuba diving. Pretty pimp.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Saturday, August 09, 2008
Bernie Mac Dead at 50
One of my favorite comedians has died at the age of 50 due to pneumonia complications.
I remember seeing The Original Kings of Comedy in theaters and crying I was laughing so hard when Bernie Mac came out. This performance brought him to the spotlight. Shortly after this he started receiving film roles and soon enough his own show. I enjoyed his show so much I actually wrote a paper on it in college which discussed the roles of fathers in television shows.
Below is one of my favorite scenes from the movie. Most of the language is NSFW.
I remember seeing The Original Kings of Comedy in theaters and crying I was laughing so hard when Bernie Mac came out. This performance brought him to the spotlight. Shortly after this he started receiving film roles and soon enough his own show. I enjoyed his show so much I actually wrote a paper on it in college which discussed the roles of fathers in television shows.
Below is one of my favorite scenes from the movie. Most of the language is NSFW.
Friday, August 08, 2008
My Favorite Olympic Moment
I'll always remember seeing this moment on television. I've yet to see anything make me cry like a baby.
PS: Sorry for the Creed music
PS: Sorry for the Creed music
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
Charlie Lynch Found Guilty
One of the saddest injustices I've seen in a long time has occurred. Charlie Lynch has been found guilty of
Just a sad day when a man who is not pushing drugs on the corner but providing it to individuals so that they can eat is now going to jail for a long time.
Make sure to check out the entire video and story at Reason.
distributing marijuana, conspiring to distribute marijuana and providing marijuana to people under the age of 21I first heard of this story on Reason where I learned that in San Francisco it is legal to sell medicinal marijuana. Mr. Lynch opened a business that sold this marijuana to individuals for medicinal purposes. One of these individuals was Owen Beck, a high schooler that noticed it hurt while running when playing soccer. He went in to have an x-ray and a medium sized tumor was discovered in his leg. After many treatments of chemo and feeling nauseated therefore not eating, his parents suggested to him the use of medical marijuana. They spoke to a doctor, received the prescription, and went and visited Mr. Lynch's office. Because Owen was a minor Charlie Lynch was arrested for distributing.
Just a sad day when a man who is not pushing drugs on the corner but providing it to individuals so that they can eat is now going to jail for a long time.
Make sure to check out the entire video and story at Reason.
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
Does Not Compute
If you're like me you're constantly calling customer service for major corporations. And if you're like me you hate having to solve the riddle of key commands to speak to an actual human. Well thanks to wonderful world o'intertubes, you can have a Game Genie for these companies.
The website Gethuman.com contains listings of 100s of major corporations and the key combination or secret key words to say in order to get a person right away. You can also see reviews other users have left on their experience with those companies, and you can add as well.
The website Gethuman.com contains listings of 100s of major corporations and the key combination or secret key words to say in order to get a person right away. You can also see reviews other users have left on their experience with those companies, and you can add as well.
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