Stay Classy with Me!
Check out my Fantasy Moguls movie slate!
What Happens in Vegas
Get in the game at fantasymoguls.com!
View my DVD Collection at DVD Profiler
Links
Saturday, December 27, 2003
Tonight's ROH show was good but not great like it should've been. I was ready to beat the hell out of the people behind me and in fron tof me- Surrounded by stupidity is bad. Line of the night is the guy to my left behind me saying about a grils breasts, "I like them smaller so they look young like a 12 year olds." What the hell is up with that?
I posted below this one the post of Maxim Blender's top 50 albums of 2003 so feel free to read that at your leisure but remember its my last post for a week so don't rush through it expecting something new the next day. I didn't post as much as I want to becasue the thing I was trying to do was turning out to be a hassle and I don't have the patience for it right now. So enjoy the posts- E-mail me some repsonses the link is there, and have a great new years everyone. Oh and call me on new year's eve if you want to wish me a good one the number is 610-698-1491..Possibly I shouldn't have just posted my cell number online- Oh well!!...Later
As promised here is the breakdown of the Top 50 Albums of 2003 as voted on by the staff of Maxim Blender I'll fill in comments when I can if I can't I'll paraphrase Blender:
50. Aesop Rock- Bazooka Tooth
Aesop Rock is the underground's most fabulous rapper. Supposedly he'd make Eminiem run for cover- I think that's more bad than good.
49. Gary Allan- See If I Care
California Honky-Tonk singer Allan has become Nashville exemplar, with a knack for galloping songs about miserable nights.- One of my favorite country artists and the man has a voice that reminds you of some classic country artists.
48. Coldplay- Live 2003
Greatest hits recorded in Sydney. Greatest hits albums shouldn't make best of lists but I'll let it slide since Coldplay doesn't do anything to actively piss me off
47. Basement Jaxx- Kish Kash
When the gloomy consensus is that the party's over for dance music, these guys offer the most compelling argument for not getting your coat just yet- Um OK
46. Thursday- War All the Time
New Jersey emo punk band which takes many of the riffs common to punk and applies them to more midle aged problems- That just sounds incredibly lame and stupid.
45. Steely Dan- Everything Must Go
Their lush, jazz-licked, smoove-funk grooves, airtight after decades of relentless perfectionism, provide a cushion for more middle-aged falls from grace.-Can't be all that bad
44. The Strokes- Room on Fire
The Strokes make weariness as compelling as three-day benders. The hooks are still here they've just got some dirt on them.- The Strokes may not be great but they're better than most rock bands now-a-days.
43. Pink- Try This
Her third album jolts her r&b and confessional rock with buzzsaw guitars and whipcrack beats- Pink is who Madonna shoul dbe passing the torch to. She cans ing just about any style and makes it all sound good. Most of what I've heard from this album is really good.
42. Macy Gray- The Trouble with Being Myself
Three albums in and Macy's still psycho- That about sums it up for me. I hate Macy Gray.
41. Lightning Blot- Wonderful Rainbow
The sound of the underground smashing its face with a crowbar. They make enough noise to drown out a construction site.- Normally I'd argue noise doesn't equal quality but these guys are pretty good.
40. Radiohead- Hail to the Thief
Grumbling Brits get in a fighting mood.- It probably isn't Radioheads strongest album but it deserves to be higher than 40 for the year.
39. Amy Rigby- Til the Wheels Fall Off
Nashville MILF's sad bedroom songs.- I believe some porno's start out that way, and from the picture she is far away from being a MILF
38. Cafe Tacuba- Cuatro Caminos
Latin America's greatest art-rockers. A glorious mess- I'll take Blender's word for it
37 Damien Rice- O
Literate Irishman makes the year's best come-back-for-coffee soundtrack- I hate coffee
36 Liz Phair- Liz Phair
Making moves on radio and younger men- She became enamored with pop and moved away from indie type stuff and it works really well for her. PLus she's really good looking (Did anyone see her sing Winter Wonderland on Conan?)
35 Electric Six- Fire
Detroit's finest one-track minds burn up the dance floor- The tip is get really drunk and then listen, that can't speak well for a band.
34 Aretha Franklin- So Damn Happy
Adult contemporary sang with a gospel voice- Jesus must be proud.
33 Kathleen Edwards- Failer
Canadian singer-songwriter casts a harsh eye on losers- So that's why my ears are always burning.
32 Lifesavas- Spirit in Stone
Funky debut from Portland, Oregon boho-hip-hop revivalists- Rappin about Tarzan sounds interesting
31 Fanny Pack- So Stylistic
Lippy Teens who know how to rump shake- Anyone remember Aqua?....Didn't think so
30 T.A.T.U.- 200 km/h in the Wrong Lane
Having a gay old time redefining girl power (Oh a pun how nice)- I love their big hit song- a great blending of voices. Acts only last so long
29 Obie Trice- Cheers
Fun-lovin, pseudo-gangsta with Eminem's seal of approval- Sang a hit song about girls with no teeth...I should be more interested than I actually am
28 Warren Zevon- The Wind
Putting death on hold for a raucous, heart-breaking farewell- Music lost a great artists in Zevon..This album is a huge testament to that
27 The Distillers- Coral Fang
Third album from mohawked Aussie hottie and her buddies- Brody Dalle scares me greatly but man is the music good (I'd still do her probably...In the unlikely chance I get the opportunity)
26 Grandaddy- Sumday
Tearjerking soundbites for sad robots- Cosmic country-rock...is that a new word for crap?
25 Metallica- St. Anger
A return to twisted, smoking form- I'm madly in anger with you- for selling your souls to the devil. If you've heard one Metallica song you've heard them all (Or is it Metallika? you decide)
24 Jack Johnson- On and On
Surfer dude's blissful follow-up to platinum Brushfire Fairytales- I got the remedy, the remedy....He doesn't sing that....Damn I got nothing then.
23 The New Pornographers- Electric Version
Graduate-school power-pop from north of the border- If they added a number to their name I'd really believe the power pop thing
22 Dizzee Rascal- Boy in Da Corner
England's great black hope- I think if the title track was about Little Jack Horner I'd listen but its not so I'll pass.
21 Lucinda Williams- World Without Tears
Fifty-year old roots diva still looking for love in all the wrong places- Country rock queen raps on her new album...country and rap is like peanut butter and turkey...you cna mix them but they probably won't taste right together
20 Cursive- The Ugly Organ
Nebraska art-punks play emo for grownups- How many freaking emo bands are on this list?
19 Drive-By Truckers- Decoration Day
Dirty Southerners clean out their closet- This album isn't near the level of their others, but still good but not 19 good...maybe 20 but not 19.
18 The Neptunes- The Neptunes Present...Clones
They rewrite thier own songs and beats for themselves- I didn't know you could sample a sample
17 The Raveonettes- Chain Gang of Love
Surf-pop + feedback+ sex+ black jackets= one=trick genius- Too bad the trick isn't vanishing....They suck big time
16 Kings of Leon- Youth and Young Manhood
Hypnotic backwoods rocking from the Southern Strokes- Hypnotic? like that Saved by the Bell episode where tehy made tapes with hidden messages?..Nice
15 The Darkness- Permission to Land
Pomp-rock for the iPod generation- Anything that is a throwback to arena rock is fine by me...Also the greatest song about an STD ever
14 Bubba Sparxxx- Deliverance
Second-best white rapper in the world- Behind Vanilla Ice
13 Dashboard Confessional- A Mark, A Mission, A Brand, A Scar
Deft big-time debut from MTV2 sing along cult hero- An overrated artist
12 R. Kelly- Chocolate Factory
r&b'S PIED PIPER CHOOSES TWERK OVER TACT- What the hell is twerk?....why do people buy r. kelly albums?...Somethings I'll never know.
11 Junior Senior- D-D-Don't Don't Stop the Beat
Danish duo's message: Dance, have sex, repeat- Sounds good to me
10 Evanescence- Fallen
Linkin Park of 2003 with a notable, dress-wearing difference- You had me until you compared them to the Park
9 50 Cent- Get Rich or Die Tryin'
The cheeriest thug hip-hop album of all time- I heard that club song everywhere...didn't like it but heard it
8 Yeah Yeah Yeahs- Fever to Tell
New York art-punks justify the type- A band that sings punk and souonds punk...Finally
7 Beyonce- Dangerously in Love
Hottest-Looking genius in pop- Definitely has a knack for writing great songs..and she's got a killer body
6 The Libertines- Up the Bracket
Life imitates art for cockney punk delinquents- Seriously how many punk bands have been on this list now?
5 Justin Timberlake- Justified
Pass that King of Pop Crown- to anyone other than him...Apeig and imitating thr real king doesn't make you the new one
4 Ryan Adams- Rock N Roll
Former alt-country scamp gets his rocks off- I now have a horrible mental image...Hope there's no companion dvd
3 Fountains of Wayne- Welcome Interstate Managers
Revenge of the thirtysomethings- No way should this be number 3 on the year. The big hit off it sin't even that good. At least not as funny as it could be.
2 Outkast- Speakerboxxx/ The Love Below
One hundred thirty-five minutes of unfiltered brillance- How can you not like a song that brings back the handclaps and is the most upbeat song about a relationship ending (Hey Ya) and an album (like Andres) that mimics Beatels and Prince songs? Answer you can't
1. The White Stripes- Elephant
The world's most famous faux siblings go huge- Seven Nation Army has maybe the best bassline of all time in it. The songs are almost all perfect sounding and most importantly they expanded their sound without compromising what makes them unique. Awesome effort and an awesome album. Very deserving of the number 1. (Better than Eminem being voted number 1 every year)
1
Friday, December 26, 2003
Tonight was hockey night and I didn't play as well as last week but didn't play bad either. I've definitely made strides but there is a lot of work to be done. I also started packing clothes tonight for next weeks trip.
Now many might be wondering about the novel since I haven't mentioned it lately. I finished the beginning stage or set-up of the man's plan but instead of jumping right ahead I've been reading and re-reading the first part to get it exactly where it needs to be and adding to help with some details. I have the whole outline written down so I'm not at a loss as to what comes next.
Lately I've been downloading all kinds of episodes of the show Titus. I loved the show on FOX. It might've been my favorite sitcom and it got canceled to quick after being scheduled against The West Wing...stupid FOX.
I also wrote a song which to me is the best song I've ever written and the most country sounding one yet. I just need to add some music and find the right vibe for it.
Tomorrow night is the ROH show and I must be on the lookout for a chokeout from someone. Also don't forget- lots of posts tomorrow to keep you reading all week long while I can't post so huzzah....That's it for now Later
Thursday, December 25, 2003
Quick post tonight
For Christmas I got:
New jeans
Socks
All kinds of personal items I asked for (Body Spray and Comb- which yes I asked for)
Money
75.00 worth of gift certificates to the mall
80.00 worth of gift cards to video stores- so the collection will grow greatly in the coming months
Screwdriver set for in my car- Something I badly needed
2 Hank Williams Jr. cds- I can always count on Big Kovatto for the real good stuff (Both are hard to find cds- plus we share the same tastes in music old school country and the rebel rousers of the 70's. Plus most classic rock stuff we agree on- He likes Black Eye Peas Ol' Dirty Bastard and I don't though so we differ a little
Not a whole lot but my parents are paying my way to go to North Carolina next week for graduation along with my stereo I got the other week so I made out in all.
Now Saturday I will be attending the biggest Ring of Honor show in their history and then will be coming home so we can leave for NC at 7 in the morning....So I probably won't sleep in between adn will post all ngiht Saturday. Since I won't be around that whole week I am posting a huge update where for fans of my show from school I will break down Maxim Blender's list of the Top 50 albums of 2003 a wide variety to say the least. So put my link in your favorite places to be prepared. Until then though....later everyone
Wednesday, December 24, 2003
Tonight was the candlelight service at church. I love the service but it just isn't the smae anymore. I miss the handbells that used to get played during the closing hymn "Joy to the World." We still sing Silent Night with the lgihts off and only candles burning- it is really cool. Now two problems with the service:
1.) I hate most Christmas songs both churchy and non-churchy. But I really really really hate "Angels we Have Heard on High." Just a terrible song with the worst chorus ever. (For the record the only Christmas songs that matter are "Blue Christmas" by Elvis Presley/ "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" by Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band/ "Hark the Herald Angels Sing"/ Pretty much anything Harry Connick Jr. sings/ "Jingle Bells" by Barking Dogs.
2.) Before and after the gospel we sing three verses of this song by Martin Luther which he calls, "The Christmas Story in a Nutshell". The song is 15 verses long- 15 verses is not a nutshell by any means. Three verses maybe, anymore you're expounding...
Other than that though Happy Holidays to everyone.....and Happy Festivus- It's the holiday for the rest of us.
Tuesday, December 23, 2003
Today was a pretty good day. I went to Wal-Mart and bought some magazines and the new Montgomery Gentry cd. Before that I went to the mall and bought a Christmas card for my parrents and bought myself the Outkast cd. Now before I catch flak from people. Yes I do not like rap music but Outkast is hardly rap. They are more like Beck. They do all kinds of different styles and somehow find a way to make them work. Not only that but they sound different than everything else on the radio. They even decry rap music. In a recent interview they said it (rap) has become to predictable. There is a r&b singer brought in to lay down the vocal hook and then theres a neptunes beat, and some lyrics about why they're the street kings. Truthfully that is what rap has turned into and that's why its not as good. When Grandmaster Flash and Run DMC were around they sang lyrics about real issues not just look at my money, and beating up N*%#s. It really is sad what has happened to rap because they are going the way of rock in the mid 90's.
Now for my announcement. This was not an easy decision to make but I figured that with the advent of weight loss of been encountering. (I'm down to 247. I was 268 at the beginning of the semester and 280 when I started the diet 2 years ago- The diet was designed to move in shifts.) it was time to go for the full image makeover. So you may have noticed that I've let my hair grow in- well it is going to stay so for those that wanted to see me with hair- you'll get your opportunity. Nothing can make me change my mind right now- This is temporary we'll see how it works- I might go back to the bald head eventually but we'll see.
Lastly Karen and I have figured that Augustus was set up in the movie Willy Wonka. He was never told not to go near the chocolate river so why would you think it was bad to go for it. He was set up and it isn't fair what happened.
That's it for tonight. I'll post sometime tomorrow either before or after midnight service at church so if you don't read it by then MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
Monday, December 22, 2003
Quick update for everyone. Today was very uneventful. Dad and I made some Christmas cookies since we had nothing better to do. I looked for some more jobs and found nothing. Also I haven't heard anything. I assume I won't because people aren't hiring over the holidays. Tonight I got back to writing and have now reached like 10,000 words and am through stage 1 of the book.
Oh I found out the hooker boots girl from the hair salon asked about me at work. She has a body that was slapped together by a technician very close to God but is really really REALLY dumb. Seriously the lights are on but nobody's home. Why is that what I meet?
Am I the only one disturbed by that Greyhound bus ad with the singing dog?
Also, I'll put up some pictures as soon as I figure out how to put pictures from my computer onto the webpage.
That's it. Nothing big today. Later
Sunday, December 21, 2003
Another new feature as you can now e-mail directly to let me know what you thinkof my blog. I assume you already know my IM name since that's where the link is but now there are all modes of access open to you. This morning I went to church and during the first hymn some kid downstairs just passed out and fell over. Right away about 20 people ran to where the kid was because when someone faints the best thing to do is crowd around them so they have no air. So anyway- the service was paused for like 10 minutes while they called EMT's and attended to the kid- which was really strange. I never thought a church service would be delayed like that. Then some guy behind the kid was believed to be having a heart attack but refused to go in the ambulance. So it was a regular medical emergency day at the Lutheran Church.
Then this afternoon I went and played Santa for some people and handed all the kids their gifts. The one kid is definitely on the cusp of figuring out Santa doesn't exist. First he says, "You sound different from last year." I responded, "Santa has a cold this year." Then later he said, "Where are your glasses?" I replied, "Santa's glasses are too heavy to wear sometimes- have you seen how thick they are?" He believed me in the end but in a year or two- he's gonna be spoiling it for others.
It sucks when Christmas is ruined for you but when is it appropriate to give up the dream of Santa and real Christmas. I mean at our house one year my parents just decided we weren't even going to put gifts under the tree. I woke up o find nothing and thought, "You know I was pretty good this year what gives.?" Then my mom says, "Well we can open gifts now." Then goes into her closet and digs out the gifts- still in like Boscovs bags to put them under the tree. It reall ysucks becasue I love Christmas and it ruins the whole deal for me. Seriously when I have kids even when they're like 20 I'll sneak into the living room in the middle of the night to put gifts out just so the illusion stays alive.
I wish I was taping my show this week becasue there is a great story about a woman who stopped to call into a radio show so she pulled onto the side of the road. She was then rear ended by a car and tried to sue. Hey thats what you get for calling the wacky morning show guys- MORON!!!!
That's it for tonight. There are two songs listed below that I love right now. And a new Sports Night Review so enjoy it all. Later
This country song out right now I just love
Dierks Bentley (Is there a more country name than that?)
My Last Name
i learned how to write it when i first started school
some bully didnt like it, he said it didnt sound too cool
so i had to hit him and all i said when the blood came
its my last name
grandpa took it off to europe to fight the germans in the war
it came back on some dog tags nobody wears no more
it's written on a headstone in the field where he was slain
its my last name
passed down from generations too far back to trace
i can see all my relations when i look into my face
may never make it famous but i'll never bring it shame
its my last name
daddy always told me far back as i recall
son, you're part of something, you represent us all
so keep it how you got it, as solid as it came
its my last name
so darlin if you're wonderin why i've got you here tonight
i wanna be your husband, i want you to be my wife
i ain't got much to give you but what i've got means everything
its my last name
oh' its my last name
i learned how to write it when i first started school
In the interest of fairness, for those who don't like country music. This is the non country song I really like right now
Outkast's Big Boi
The Way you Move
Boom, Boom, Boom.
Heh, Heh.
Ready for action, nip it in the butt.
We never relaxin’, OutKast is everlastin’
Not clashin’, not at all but see my nigga went to do a little acting.
Now that’s for anyone askin’ give me one pass em’
Drip drip drop there goes an eargasm
Now you cumin out the side of your face
We tapping right into your memory banks (Thanks!)
So flickle the tickle lets see your seat belt fastened
Trunk rattlin’ like two midgets in the back seat wrasling
Speakerbox vibrate the tank, make it sound like aluminum cans in the back.
But I know ya’ll wanted that 808 can you feel that B-A-S-S, bass
But I know ya’ll wanted that 808 can you feel that B-A-S-S, bass
I like the waaaay you move
I like the waaaay you move (Whoo-o-o!)
I love the waaaay you move
I love the way, I love the way.
I love the waaaay you move
I love the waaaay you move (Whoo-o-o!)
I love the waaaay you move
I love the way, I love the way.
Then the whole room fell silent (Shhhhh!)
The girls all pause with glee, turning left turning right hardly looking at me,
But I was looking at them, there, there on the dance floor
Now they got me in the middle feeling like a man whore
Specially the big girl, big girls need love too no discrimination in this world.
So keep your hands off my cheeks, and let me study how you ride the beat
You big freak!
Skinny, slim women got the cameltoe within them
You can fuck them, lift them, bend them, give them something to remember
Hail out timber when you fall through the chop shop.
Take a deep a breath and exhale your ex male friend, boyfriend was boring as hell
Now let me listen to the stories you tell and we can make moves like a person in jail.
On the loco
Heeeey baby, girl don’t you stop
Come on baby dance on the top of me
You so fine (you so fine) you so fine
You drive me outta my mind (my mind, outta my mind!) Oooh baby!
If I could I would, just be with yoooou baaaaby
Ooooooh Cause you like me and excite me and you know you gotta leave baby!
Oooooo!
I like the waaay you move (I like the way you move)
I like the waaay you move (Ooo you so sexy baaby!) (Whoo-o-o!)
I love the waaay you move
I love the way, I love the way (Whoo-o-o!)
I love the waaay you move (I love the way you move)
I love the waaay you move (Ooo you so sexy baaby!) (Whoo-o-o)
I love the waaay you move
I love the way, I love the way.
I like the waaay you move
I like the waaay you move (Whoo-o-o!)
I love the waaay you move
I love the way, I love the way.
I love the waaay you move
I love the waaay you move (Whoo-o-o!)
I love the waaay you move
I love the way, I love the way
Sports Night
Episode 2- The Apology
Casey and Dan are in their office waiting for the nightly show to begin and Dan seems rather nervous about something. He is playing with a stress ball he has behind his back and seems distracted. Natalie walks in and mentions the Esquire interview with Dan. Dan is more concerned with his "stalker" at the office. Casey meanwhile is trying to get the scoop on a big news story of a college coach being fired. Dan tries to tell Casey his stalkers name but Casey seems unconcerned.
Meanwhile a pitcher is working on a no-hitter and Dana says to move it to the teaser. Jeremy says its bad luck (It is) but Dana still puts it there. Word comes almost instantly that the no-hitter was lost.
COMMERCIAL
Back and Casey is trying to figure out how much trouble Dan is in becasue of his Esquire interview. In fact, all of the workers there wonder how much trouble he's in. However, Casey finds more to be concerned with when he realizes the perception to the world is Dan is cooler than him. Casey tells Dana that Dan belongs to an organization that supports the legalization of marijuana and the netowrk probably won't be happy. In fact, the head of the network has sen the interview and is not pleased.
Natalie enters and asks Casey to look over Jeremy's first highlight reel. She can't give feedback on it because she has feelings for Jeremy which will affect her opinion. Casey then finds Dan in their office when he is supposed to be in a meeting with the network brass to discuss his interview in Isaac's office. Dan holds that the interview missed the point and that drug abuse is a helath care issue not criminal and the manpower and resources used to prosecute a surfer in San Diego would be better used on something that is a geniune threat to national security.
The conversation then turns to Casey's not being cool, to which he refutes the opposing case by saying he has Starland Vocal Band's "Afternoon Delight," in his car. Dan says to help him be cool again he'll have to disavow him of ever thinking he was cool.
Dan defends his view by saying that he doesn't support doing drugs. The advisors say that the sponsors expect the on-air personalities to project an image of clean living. Luther Sachs, the owner, suggests an apology on air to the viewers. Dan refuses to cave in. They bring up the fact that Dan signed a moral clause in his contract and that he must apologize. Dan refuses to apologize again saying, "Actions are immoral- Opinions are not" Among other arguments they bring up the health insurance becasue Dan says he hasn't smoked pot in 11 years as of today. They say it's an odd number and Dan says, "It's also a prime number." Isaac says Dan should just do it becasue it's the way its done. Dan then compares himself to Rosa Parks and Isaac says don't ever compare yourself to Ms. Parks to me (Isaac's black).
COMMERCIAL
Casey calls in Jeremy to go over his highlight reel and says the only problem is its 8:30 seconds long- When they usually are only 30-40 seconds long. Jeremy struggles valiantly to argue why the package should be that long. Casey is adamant- Make it shorter!
Natalie tells Dana that Casey needs a woman and he is reaching out to Dana. Dna says she is wrong. Casey and Jeremy are then going over Jeremy's highlight reel and Jeremy still doesn't see why it should be shortened. Jeremy is insistent that "The Battle" be spotlighted until Dana comes in and says she need to cut time for Dan's apology before the second commercial break so she tells Jeremy what she needs and leaves.
Back in the studio during the show and Dan says he didn't see his stalker tonight. They come back to the studio from a remote and Casey throws it to Dan for his apology and Dan begins by saying he needs to clarify his remarks made in an interview. He then freezes while everyone waits for something to do. Isaac offers a confident, "Come on Daniel." Dan finally breaks and recounts a story about his younger brother Sam. I won't spoil it here the speech he gives but it is touching and a sad moment. Although I'd like to point out for a 20 second apology this is long- WAY LONG!..He talks for like a minute. Nonetheles he delivers his apology and throws it to commercial.
The crew sits stunned and no one can break the silence. That is until Casey leans over to tell Dan that Starland Vocal Band won the Best New Artist Grammy in 1978 and they beat Elvis Costello. "Is it your belief that Elvis Costello is uncool?" "No it's my belief that the Grammy voters are uncool." Dan laughs and seems relieved to finally have issued a long overdue apology, as "Afternoon Delight" plays in the background.
ANALYSIS
As I said in the first review, this show is top notch all the way. It showcases the strength of this show when they would introduce the main problem before the first commercial and then spend the rest of the show developing the concept. It helps to that the supporting plot lines are given as much time as the main one. Also the speech Dan gives is killer writing and will make you appreciate Josh Charles' acting ability. This is the first excellent episode of the series and there were mor to come-----------------A+
Saturday, December 20, 2003
Short post tonight just to catch everyone up on current events. The past two days I have had little to no time to work at the novel so I have not made much progress since Thursday. i am now up to 7,000 words which figures to around 16 pages. The person that I let read an excerpt of what I had seemed to enjoy what I had so far so I'm on the right track- and I trust his opinion of story development. (I'm not mentioning names becasue he is not allowed to let anyone see it or discuss details- I like secrecy.) I was writing some tonight but didn't really like where it was going so I stopped. Hopefully tomorrow I'll get it back on the right track.
Last night I played hockey at the Y with some friends and after two shaky games to start we played really well. I think it worked because all the guys on our team play a similar style where we don't all swarm the ball- rather we work into space and cycle it around. I wish I was better so I could hold up my end more when I play but I do what I can with the talent I got- which is make sure the other team's big guns don't touch the ball and get the big slapshots. After hockey we went to the Hookies or some drinks. While there I saw an old friend from junior high. We also saw a lady who was playng these really sad songs on the jukebox. Not only that she was singing along to the songs and had her eyes closed or something as she sang. It was really weird. Then she went and stood by the jukebox before she finally left. Times like that make me glad I don't concern myself with booze and stuff or making a habit of going to places to drink because no matter where you go- bars, firehouses, clubs there are always people there like that. People that turn to alcohol to make life's problems better or go away. You know what makes life's problems better- Facing them head on!!!!! That's why I'm better than you. And by you I mean the people that go this route. If you don't turn to alcohol to fix problems than good for you- stay the course. In fact identify yourself to me and I'll personally congratulate you. But if you do- grow the fucks up. End of mini-rant. BTW I'm not against drinking when you're just out to have a good time. Re: Me next week in North Carolina.
Also my new owners at work should be nominated for Moron of the Week, month, year, and decade. Seriosuly- they are that dumb.
Hope you enjoyed the review of the first episode of Sports Night. There are three more I'm working on but with being busy and the novel writing it is slow going but I promise to finish. That as they say is that. Later
Friday, December 19, 2003
Sports Night Reviews Begin
Today I begin my review of every episode from every season of the TV show Sports Night. The show was on ABC for only two seasons I believe and was critically acclaimed. However, like many other shows like that the viewers didn’t flock to it so it only lasted two low-rated seasons before ABC dumped it to make room for their new hit show Geena starring Geena Davis. (WTF?) Truth be told I only watched the show sparingly while it was on ABC but fell in love with it during its broadcasts on Comedy Central. Aaron Sorkin who went on from this show to focus on his other big hit The West Wing wrote the show. Now to be completely honest I’m not a huge fan of Sorkin’s work. I think he gets too preachy at times about material and sometimes writes his characters into situations that are too easily gotten out of. I love his work on this show though, mainly because its only 30 minutes long so some of the preachiness is cut down. The show takes place in a TV studio where they are forever producing their Sportscenter like show. I apologize because this episode review will be long because I need to introduce all the characters so let’s get that out of the way.
Dan Rydell- One of the main anchors of Sports Night. He is the more open of the two actors and has a come-what-may attitude about life. It is widely regarded that he is the more hip of the two and is much cooler than his on-air partner.
Casey McCall- The other anchor and much more introverted than Dan. He is just coming off a divorce from his wife Lisa and has feelings for Dana Whitaker the producer of sports night.
Dana Whitaker- Very much attuned to her power and how others perceive it (The whole woman in charge thing). She is at the beginning of the show upset with Casey for how he treats her and tries to fend off his advances at every turn.
Natalie- I can not think of her last name. She is Dana’s right hand woman and associate producer so the most expendable of the people that work there (That’ll come into play later).
Jeremy Goodwin- Good-hearted yet very geeky new hire at Sports Night. He dates Natalie throughout the show and tries his best to deal with her despite there being total opposites.
Isaac Jaffe- Played by TV vet Robert Guilliame. He is the overseer of everything at Sports Night and was hired as a provision to his good friend Luther Sachs the owner of Continental Corp, which owns Continental Sports Channel where Sports Night airs.
And now onto the show
Episode 1- Pilot
The technique that Sorkin has used ad nausea throughout his shows is in full effect here. The moving camera. The camera is following us through the control room as we meet everyone doing their jobs before the show airs that night. There is also some discussion brought about by Dan reading his script, which leads to the discussion of whether Helsinki is in Finland or not- For those that don’t know it is. See they don’t have anyone to check facts like that- like a four year old- but never fear Natalie has an interview lined up with someone later. There is also some concern because Casey is still getting over his divorce and many don't know if his mood is any better. Isaac asks Dana to check and we get, “Casey- Isaac would like to know if you’re in a better mood-” “Shut up” “Yep pretty crappy show.”
COMMERCIAL
We’re back and Dan sees Casey is very early for work- in fact so early he slept there the night before. Dan tries again to get Casey to join his nightlife but Casey refuses, choosing to say he doesn’t need a cruise director. Time for the morning meeting and there is some talk about the kicker of the Cincinnati Bengals being let go. Many extol the virtues of him being a good guy but every argument is countered by Casey’s arguments of “He can’t kick.”
“He’ll catch on somewhere else.”
“No he won’t you know why?. He can’t kick.”
At the rundown they go through the meeting and J.J. who is the liaison between the network and the show has some problems with the rundown. He expresses them and then very assertively tells the gang that at these meetings his is the voice of the network. See the gang wants to run a piece on Ntozako Nelson who was told he’d never walk again but today is running in an event telecast on CSC. J.J. says that’s well and good but 11 year olds are used for research and they are not impressed. Casey then says how he chooses not to take advice from 11 year-olds and the next time he hears the voice of the network coming from J.J.’s mouth he’ll stick his foot down it. You go Casey! He’s still grumpy by the way. J.J. expresses the intent to let Casey go if his attitude doesn’t change and Dan says, “My future is doing a sports show with Casey whether here or somewhere else.”
COMMERICAL
We are now introduced to Jeremy Goodwin who is extremely geeky from the start. He meets Dana talking about the satellite positioning and why it may be messing with her live feed from Brazil. Dana gets away from him and goes to talk with Casey and she doesn’t look happy. She tells him that she knows he thinks there are a million other people who could do her job, but it’s hers and he is screwing up her show. Lot of pronouns there. There also seems to be the hint of something between Casey and Dana in the past.
Dana then goes to meet Natalie’s interview- Jeremy. She asks him what sports he’s good at and he says baseball, so good let’s talk about basketball. She then asks him to name three things to Knicks could do to improve this season- after an entirely too long monologue he gives his three reasons and is hired.
Casey approaches Dan and says he is thinking of leaving sports because he is tired of it not just being about the sport AND doesn’t like feeling like he is reading a police blotter every night. (There is a subplot about a point guard who has a career game then punches out another guy in a bar and Casey is worried that these are his son’s role models now that he can’t be around all the time). Dan finally erupts telling Casey that he has been patient and kept his mouth shut because Casey asked him to but Lisa was an uncaring hateful person who never once acted like she believed in Casey. As Dan is talking Kim continually tries to interrupt and tell the guys that there is something on TV they’ll want to see. She finally gets them to break up and they go into the newsroom to see Nelson on the verge of breaking the world record. Casey realizing he has a chance hurries to call his son Charlie and have him turn on the TV to watch the guy run. Charlie does and Casey goes on the air to deliver the teaser and is full of energy as he does it. Dana smiles, turns to Natalie and proclaims- “He’s back.” Casey then calls Dana into the studio and says, “No one can produce this show but you.” All’s well that ends well for episode 1 of Sports Night.
Analysis
Not a bad introductory show but not great by any means. Many of the quirks they give the characters are forgotten by the middle of the first season almost as if the show was reconceived after the first few shows. Still it lays the basic groundwork for the dynamics of the show. We get a sense for who fills what roles and start getting a feel for the relationships between the characters. Not quite A level but it would only take til episode 2 for them to get to that. so we’ll call this one a-------------------B
On Air with Ryan Seacrest
Today's commercial I can't stand comes to us from the new spots for the Ryan Seacrest talk show coming soon. Look it's not that I think the guy is untalented, or that the show will be bad. In fact the opposite is true. I think that if anyone can make a format like he has planned work he can. My problem is that the commercials are shown like 5 times an hour and they are all the same commercial just got down to different lengths. It talks about what he don't do and do do on his show. The joke is obvious from the start where its going and it gets less funny everytime it airs. Seriously the show will do well- but make a new damn commercial.
Thursday, December 18, 2003
For those awaiting updates about the novel- I've now reached 6100 words which figures to about 15 pages which means about 70,000 words and 200 pages to go. I'm surprised I've made it this far.
As you can tell I've made some changes to the site and I feel they are for the best. I love that picture to the right it gets me everytime.
Now I want to be serious for a minute towards a post I read by a friend of mine today so I'm entering motivational speaker mode now.
Girls are an anomaly to guys. We think we know what work and how to handle situations but each one is unique. No matter how much we look for similarities and even make belive they're there- They're not. We just make the similarites materialize becasue of our belief in them. So why say this to start. It's like this.
We've all had bad experiences. Things don't always work perfectly, and they probably shouldn't. The trick is to learn from where things go wrong and find out how to get to the next checkpoint after that step. I've had my heart broken by girls- And yes it was broken- but you've got to pick yourelf back up, you need to pick yourself back up. Because while it may be easier on us in the short term to sit and suppress any feelings we may have in the longrun it is cheating ourselves. Because when you like a girl for a day or a month or a year you are being let in on something that is so hard to feel- a certain specialness. When you shut yourself down you miss out on those opportunities. You miss out on seeing just how wonderful some people can be even if they don't reciprocate the feelings you have for them. They can't but somewhere they try. That trying is what makes the difference. Let's be honest guys- we don't try to like someone. If we're not interested- we're not interested. Girls give it a go- if only for a second in thier hearts- to see what they feel. If guys shared that same courteousy there might not be such a great divide in relationships at first. But there is nothing better than trying to understand the intricacies of a girl. You see a girl you like, you pursue, you try to find out what you can about her because you want to know what makes her tick. In the end, whether good or bad ending, you've spent time doing the worthwile task of getting to know someone. Which sometimes makes it harder when you get turned down or turned loose- because you feel there is such a great person beneath the surface that most- sometimes even the person themself doens't see. But if you shut off from the world you miss that opportunity to have someone truly special grace your life even if only for a fleeting minute.
I understand your strategy though it seems like a good one at first. I tried it too, just shovel everything to the background. The thing is- it always finds a way to the foreground. The quicker you learn that and just say to yourself- You know what I like that girl screw it I'm giving it a shot- the better things become. Because even if you're failing- you're going down swinging. It may not always work perfectly. In fact it might fail miserably. That's happened to me numerous times. I've had chances that have been good but I screwed up bad. In fact fucking things up badly is a trait I seem to have, but I'll overcome it one time, and that might be all it takes. Sometimes bad timing occurs and there is nothing you can do about that despite your best attempts to try.
It may not always look like confidence to people, but its part of a healing process. Things don't always work out nicely in things with girls but- when you quit- and go home- youre not even trying, and seriously then- what's the point.
Inspirational mode off
I hope that little rant made some sense cause I'm not sure if I even get it.
That's it for tonight...See you tomorrow.
OK so I wrote a post up yesterday and it published or so I thought. But it's not showing up on my new page. No idea what's up with that so here is yesterday's post- reposted.
For those looking for an update I am now on page 12 of the novel. However, that is with everything double spaced for readability. I'm almost certain every book is written single spaced so actually I'm only on page 6. This is hard. I mentioned to a friend last night that this is hard compared to writing school papers because when you get stuck on them you can just throw in a nice long quote to pad your writing if need be. This is all off of things in your mind. It's not easy.
Tomorrow morning I should be putting up my review of the first episode of Sports Night so look for that. Short update today so hope you could spare the thirty seconds it took to read this. Later
Wednesday, December 17, 2003
For those looking for an update I am now on page 12 of the novel. However, that is with everything double spaced for readability. I'm almost certain every book is written single spaced so actually I'm only on page 6. This is hard. I mentioned to a friend last night that this is hard compared to writing school papers because when you get stuck on them you can just throw in a nice long quote to pad your writing if need be. This is all off of things in your mind. It's not easy.
Tomorrow morning I should be putting up my reviews of the first two episodes of Sports Nihgt so look for that. Short update today so hope you could spare the thirty seconds it took to read this. Later
Tuesday, December 16, 2003
For those who didn't notice from yesterdays post- Yes I changed the backdrop for my blog. I've seen a lot of other people using this backdrop and it is the most user friendly one I've seen. So I've heisted it from various other people. Today I spent much of the morning looking through classified ads to try and find something that would at least resemble a job. Sadly its the same ads that appear day after day after day after- well you get the point. I've been sending resumes out and have yet to hear anything so its been a futile exercise so far. I was going to go to our cabin in the Pocono's to try and find myself this week but I decided against that. I know where I'm at, and I'm mostly comfortable with it. I realized that I do have 6 months before I must begin paying off loans so I need to find something over the next few weeks to keep putting money down on my car. In a year and a half that's all paid off. Then I can look for a new vehicle. I wish I had the money to speed up my 6 year plan but sadly I don't. Especially with all the bills I've got staring me dead in the face. Still I may have the first member of the 6 year plan on board so that's great.
Last night I watched some of Jingle Ball Rock or whatever Fox called it. Man no wonder pop music is in such bad shape. I was most impressed with Beyonce and Jennifer Lopez. Although I think Beyonce was a better singer when she focused on the r&b stuff in Destiny's Child and avoided the blatant hooky pop she's moved towards. And I have the first DC album so I know what I'm talk about. J-Lo didn't sing I don;t think but who really wants to hear her sing. And before people accuse me of this I do think both are good looking but not because of the obvious similarities they have to each other. If you don;t know go back under your rock. Its just a coincidence that they have that physical trait. J-Lo was a fav of mine since Out of Sight, and Beyonce is just good-looking. So there hope that cleared it up.
So I'll end this regularly scheduled post now and finish with today's commercial I can't stand.
Old Navy Hotline
No I'm not talking about the commcerical with Lil Kim because I think she looks pretty good in the thing not being all whored up. However, I usually find her attractive to varying levels (and she digs the big guys, so HAH!!) No I hate the commercial with Fran Drescher sitting there connecting callers to the clothing that would best suit their style "Eyes are blue, I'll conenct you"- UGH!...Then she says at the end, "And I think my shizzle's gone fizzizle." They should actually play this commercial all the time just so it becomes completely uncool to talk like that. Then at the end she does her Nanny cackle while a monkey in the split screen dances. Watsupwitdat? Just a dumb dumb dumb commerical and Old Navy has broke their string of campy, corny, yet entertaining commercials.
Monday, December 15, 2003
Yesterday came and went and the big story was of course- Me graduating!!!...No just kidding. Of course the big news was the capture of Saddam Hussein and I won't turn this blog into political battles but the capture will probably not change anyone's mind about being in Iraq but do not underestimate the importance of the capture. It is a huge political victory for the Bush campaign.
Anyway, graduating was not a complete waste of time yesterday. That was mainly because the girl sitting next to me was absolutely funny. Her and I just sat there and kept joking about the ceremony under our breath. The best part neither of us laughed out loud so as to bring down the importance of the event. Although, many people were annoyed with the ceremony. For starters, we began 15 minutes later than usual, because of a two mile back-up on George Street- imagine that for a minute. And President McNairy must have been nervous because she was badly reading from cards. A lot of friends offered me well-wishes yesterday and I thank you all for that. A man's only as good as the people he surrounds himself with- and I like to think I've got some great people around me. Also apparently I was visible on the internet feed so allow me to say YES!!
So where does this put me now? Well today I sent out three more resumes bringing the grand total to 10 I believe. No real takers yet but I can't do anything about that. Just remember you've got the 6 months grace as shown by the posters (Just to remind everyone the girl on the left is the hottest, the one wearing no bra is just trying to hard, and the other one ha no business in the picture with the other two. We had a discussion about this one time during a hang out session in the CER).
Often I say I don't believe in fate. That's probably true in most cases but there are parts of me that believe in it whole-heartedly. I mean I was lamenting the fact that I had to leave great people I've met at school this past year, but then I got to thinking- If I'd have graduated in 4 years I'd have never met them. I remember after being dismissed from the university I was thinking is this really my plan. Maybe the plan was just to have me meet more people- Also probably the reason I moved from business to communication. I really did meet some great people just this semester alone. Some more special than others- for varying reasons. And I'll still visit them for as long as some of them are there. Which will be weird because in my time there I spent maybe 6 or 7 weekends at school. Now I'm out of school and will spend more time there on the weekends- Ironic, no?
To wrap this bad boy up- let me say that I am going to start two features in the blog. Commercials I can't stand..........and reviews of one of my all-time favorite shows Sports Night....which I'm sure I quote more than any person should possibly do. I'm not doing that because I think people will read me reviewing a show that went off the air 4 years ago, but because I need to hone my writing and it's another creative outlet. If you do read it feel free to pass along any criticism (negative or positive)...Also I started writing my novel Saturday night, and I may have the first member for my 6 year plan- the offer is on the table...So there...Eagles game tonight....Later everybody
Saturday, December 13, 2003
So here's todays story. My mom and I go out Christmas shopping and to get my graduation gift (My mom bought me a new sterso for in my room- a nice small sleek Sony model for those wondering). As we're Best Buy there is a car trying to pull out of the Home Depot parking lot that is being waved into traffic. A van all of a sudden darts into the lane from behind the car in the Home Depot parking lot and gets rear-ended by the car that was waiting to get out. The driver then screams- in Spanish, I recognized some of the words- that the driver was taking to long to move into traffic after being waved in so he went to go around him. The two begin arguing and some shoving ensues. Now this is good enough but then the guy who got cut off starts saying about people being in too much of a damn hurry, and then says, "Just get back in your car and drive away." The other drivers reply- the old stiff right hook to the jaw. It felled the guy and the assailant jumped back into his vehicle. The driver in the car in front of us- and the buffer between the scene and us- gets on his cell phone and alerts the authorities. Oh man I love the Christmas season!....Nothing says Happy Holidays like a nice punch.
Now onto other things. This week had its share of ups and downs- and while the downs were very down- by the end the ups far outweighed them. I learned good things about myself- not good in the actual sense but good as in things I need to fix or tweak so knowing that is good. And this week further taught me that the saying I subscrube to is pretty much true. We don't always get the happy ending we want, but we always get the appropriate one for that time.
You either like it or lump it- and stupid people (like me wendesday and thursday) try to lump it......but when it gets right down to it- I like it. If that's confusing and vague- good its meant to be.
Tomorrow is graduation day- provided the weather holds up- so Monday I'll have to update about what that means to the rest of my life. So good night
Thursday, December 11, 2003
So today is the Hash Bash. We're sitting in the studio watching National Lampoons Christmas Vacation- well obviously I'm not right now because I've ducked out for a few minutes to write in this. I don't know why I was just thinking about writing in this for a while so I figured I'd update. This week has been horrendous for sleep much like the week before that. Tuesday night was the worst when I got 45 minutes of sleep- Yes I saw the sunrise before I fell asleep. That made for an interesting Wednesday as I flew off the handle not once, not twice, but three times. It was bad and I'm glad not many saw it.
Why no sleep you ask? Well my inquisitive friend, there's a lot of things going on in my life right now. It isn't any one thing in particular its a lot of things. I'm trying to act like I'm in control of it all but I must admit to myself I'm not sure I'm fully in control at this time. As i've said any numerous times when something bad happens it all snowballs into a lot worse. And it's just like that now, lots of little things all wrapped up into one. I guess, as I had in an earlier away message today- You've got to learn to separate the stuff from- THE STUFF! That's the key- if you don't know that by now- you'll learn it eventually.
This morning I did the thing where I went into a random final and acted like I was taking it to only to yell out, "Fuck this test! I'm done!" about 12 minutes in. It was hil-freaking-larious. Yes I know I am an asshole.
For now I guess that's it, and back to the movie- I hope I didn't miss Cousin Eddie's entrance. and remember this no matter how hard you look you can't see in your blind spot.
Friday, December 05, 2003
It is bittersweet that I am writing this post right now but here goes. Last night we taped the final edition of The Brian Hansley Show that I will host at Millersville. I had huge aspirations for the show and they all came through in the end but not without a lot of work from everyone involved- which I'll get to later.
We had a great look back at the show with Karen and Craig providing reenactments of stories we've talked about, and they were phenomenal just like I knew they would be. Then we had a roast where all the previous co-hosts had a chance to get back at me for all the jokes I've made and for a group of people who told me all week they had nothing to say- They certainly pulled no punches. All of them were funnier than they thought they would be and I was proud of each and every one of them. Also special props to all the roasters who made the fat jokes- I was wondering who would go after that route. Afterwards I got to make some of my own jokes and say some words but didn't get to say everything I wanted to in front of the camera so I'd like to add some things.
In all seriousness they are a great group of people. I'm so happy Chris and Zach plan to keep the show going and am truly honored that they are doing that. Even if they only do it one time and then quit next semester that is so awesome they kept it there even after I was gone. Guys whenever I can I'll be there when you tape to help you guys out and give advice.
Harry is what I said a natural at knowing what works and what doesn't. We talked about some of the stage set-up early in the week and despite some of the drama going on in his life- the day of the roast- he came through huge with his roast and rapid fired my ass with comments. Congrats Harry.
Nicole and Andrea are two girls I wish I'd have met a year ago because they've been so great this year. And what I said about Nicole and Andrea I truly believe. If they pursue careers in news and don't make it- It's a damn shame because they are great at it, and give the news a certain air of professionalism when they do it. Nicole's roast was great too. She ended up with more than I thought she would and made every guy in the department jealous of me by saying what she did at the end. So that made me smile.
The job Andrea did hosting can not be put into words. She was so worried about doing a good job, which I knew she would all along, and she came through big time. I was thinking to myself before we taped- there's no way she is going to make it a minute without a Clay joke, and she came through. There are so many things I've said and would like to say to her but I won't do that in here. She makes me smile all the time. I digress though. She did an amazing job and I'm glad we could finally work her into a show.
Matthias is a natural at the movie making deal and he should be directing something in your cineplex someday So stay tuned. Seriously someone that you can talk to about cartoons in one breath and then politics in the next, and then movies, and then books- is someone who is well-read. The world would be better if we had more people like that. BTW Matthias- I'm holding you to the little unofficial deal we made about the whole music video/acting bit parts thing. You know helping the other out.
Behind the camera. Kevin showed up every week and helped with the show and I wished at times I had more things for him to do behind the camera. He does some fantastic stuff with Animation Creation and I only wish he'd have been a comm major cause then we could've spent more time together.
Lauren did audio for me all this semester and was great at it. She helped the show so much and did a good job considering that I told her everything about 10 minutes before we went on the air. I wish she could've been at the final taping.
Last but not least- the show would not have run smoothly, or at all, without Vance. Vance did more work than anyone should be asked to do for a show that isn't his responsibility. Vance did everything to make sure the 8 and 9 camera shows went off without a hitch and routed everything those nights. Also Vance did all the crazy character generator things which were by far the funniest parts of the show. I said to Vance the other day he is like a renaissance man, a natural at anything he does. I wish I had half the talent Vance does when it comes to the technical side of tv. If I ever get a tv show. Vance will be the first person I hunt down and will not do the show until I get him on the project and I mean that.
For those wondering I made it into my car before I had to wipe any tears away from my eyes, I'm surprised I made it that far. The cast and crew were there til almost 11...two hours longer than we normally are there and not one seemed to mind- that meant the world to me.
In closing, I'd like to paraphrase a Garth Brooks song (cause I know how much most of you like country- Nicole does I know) but I could've avoided all the pain and sadness I feel by leaving this show- but I'd have missed the dance and all the fun I've had doing the show every week. If this show was the high point of my life- as good as it gets- then all of you please know I've enjoyed the hell out of getting to work with you week in and week out and if god forbid we never cross paths again in life after this week know that I wish you all the best, and will always have a special place for you people. Thank you and good night.
