81st Annual Academy Awards-The Winners Predicted

In just 6 days the 81st the Oscars will be handed out for the 81st time. Meryl vs. Angelina. Brad vs. Mickey. The millionaire vs. Benjamin. Who will win? Shocking omissions and surprising (albeit pleasant) additions aside, I will take a stab at predicting the winners in all 24 races. Last year, I got 20 out of 24 correct. This year, I'm going 24 for 24. Herewith, the predictions with just a bit of commentary along with the one that SHOULD win.


Best Original Screenplay: All five nominees are terrific choices. Sadly, In Bruges and Frozen River don't stand a chance; Happy Go Lucky did win some critic's awards and Wall-E is an animated film (not a bad thing but it would have been better had it also been up for Best Picture). That leaves Milk.

SHOULD WIN: Frozen River or Happy-Go-Lucky
WILL WIN: Milk

Best Adapted Screenplay: The only group that should bother showing up for this award is the group from Slumdog Millionaire, though the "Button(s)" could pull a surprise upset.

SHOULD WIN: Slumdog Millionaire
WILL WIN: Slumdog Millionaire

Best Editing: Contrary to popular belief, the award that wins Best Editing does NOT always win Best Pic. Normally I would choose The Dark Knight but it will possibly win Makeup and/or Visual Effects and most certainly win Supporting Actor. With that movie out of the way, it falls to Slumdog.

SHOULD WIN: Slumdog Millionaire
WILL WIN: Slumdog Millionaire

Best Cinematography: It's between Button and Millionaire in this race. While both are deserving, Slumdog has the edge.

SHOULD WIN: Slumdog Millionaire
WILL WIN: Slumdog Millionaire

Best Art Direction: One of the Slumdog-less categories, which leaves another "button" sewn up unless The Duchess pulls a corset out of the air.

SHOULD WIN: The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button
WILL WIN: The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button

Best Original Score: Again, this is Slumdog's to lose. The soundtrack was exciting and buoyant.

SHOULD WIN: Slumdog Millionaire
WILL WIN: Slumdog Millionaire

Best Original Song: I would say that Slumdog Millionaire would win (it has two of three slots) and even though the thinking may be Wall-E should get some more love, Slumdog's ending dance number should dance away with the prize.

SHOULD WIN: "Jai Ho" Slumdog Millionaire
WILL WIN: "Jai Ho" Slumdog Millionaire

Best Costume Design: This one hands down will go to Keira Knightley's film, The Duchess for the extravagant and colorful frocks that bedeck this movie.

SHOULD WIN: The Duchess
WILL WIN: The Duchess

Best Makeup: This is a tough one. The Dark Knight will certainly get a win for Heath Ledger's creepy and fascinating turn as the Joker but might it also get a little more love for the splendid makeup? Possibly, but I'm going to go for the wizardry of Button.

SHOULD WIN: The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button
WILL WIN: The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button

Best Sound Editing/Sound Mixing: This is always a tough category to choose because, really, what goes into choosing the winner of sound mixing? Who knows...I'm going for a split decision.

SHOULD WIN: The Dark Knight (Best Sound Editing & Mixing)
WILL WIN: Slumdog Millionaire (Best Sound Mixing); The Dark Knight (Best Sound Editing)

Best Visual Effects: If Button wasn't up for this award, I'd go for the knight in black.

SHOULD WIN: The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button
WILL WIN: The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button

Best Foreign Language Film: This is between France's The Class and Israel's Waltz With Bashir. Sadly, I haven't seen any of the nominees; I usually have seen at least two. Just for its timeliness and cutting edge animation, Waltz should win but Japan will probably walk away with the prize.

SHOULD WIN: Waltz With Bashir
WILL WIN: Departures

Best Documentary Feature: This race is between a high wire act and the survivors of a hurricane but between the two, the fascinating story of Philippe Petit will rise to the occasion.

SHOULD WIN: Man On Wire
WILL WIN: Man On Wire

Best Documentary Short: Another category in which I've seen not one of the nominees so this is a complete guess.

SHOULD WIN: The Witness-From The Balcony Of Room 306
WILL WIN: Smile Pinki

Best Animated Feature: The trash cleaning robot has this one wrapped up.

SHOULD WIN: Wall-E
WILL WIN: Wall-E

Best Animated Short: Another pseudo victory for Wall-E? Yes, as Presto, the film that played before Wall-E, will take this prize.

SHOULD WIN: Presto
WILL WIN: Presto

Best Live Action Short: Unless the film with the Holocaust theme comes from behind, this one is going to the toys.

SHOULD WIN: Auf der Strecke (On The Line)
WILL WIN: Spielzeugland (Toyland)

Best Actor: The dark horse in this race is Frank Langella's performance as Tricky Dick. Having said that, it's going to be a head to head battle between the gay politician and the washed-up-making-a-valiant-comeback wrestler (and actor). Sean Penn might pull an upset and I (and maybe even more than a few Academy members) can't believe I'm going to say that Mickey Rourke will soon be an Oscar winner.

SHOULD WIN: Frank Langella for Frost/Nixon
WILL WIN: Sean Penn for Milk

Best Supporting Actor: Who deserves this more? Josh Brolin whose turn as Dan White was full of angst and layers or Heath Ledger who wowed audiences with his bold turn as the Joker? Would the answer be different if Ledger were still alive today? Possibly. Everyone thinks Ledger has this sewn up and he well might but I don't think he deserves it the most.

SHOULD WIN: Josh Brolin for Milk
WILL WIN: Heath Ledger for The Dark Knight

Best Actress: One shocking omission was Sally Hawkins for her turn in Happy-Go-Lucky. She won the Golden Globe and several critcs awards. It is great, however, to see Melissa Leo (I think she possibly took the slot that would have normally gone to Hawkins) in this race. Her turn as a mother who turns to transporting illegals across the border between New York state and Quebec was honest, raw and revelatory. Angelina Jolie and Anne Hathway don't stand a chance. I'd say that Streep would win but Winslet's sixth nod will yield her first win.

SHOULD WIN: Melissa Leo for Frozen River
WILL WIN: Kate Winslet for The Reader

Best Supporting Actress: I would really like to see Amy Adams win because she's such an honest actress; her performances are real and full of richness. Viola Davis did do a remarkable job but, really, any actress in that role could have done the same thing. Taraji P. Henson was also amazing but wasn't quite a standout. Marisa-yes-you-can-really-act Tomei better not win this race. She was good in The Wrestler but it was a "wow" performance. That leaves Penelope Cruz who was up for a lead actress Oscar just a few years ago. She's proven that she's beautiful AND can act.

SHOULD WIN: Amy Adams for Doubt
WILL WIN: Penelope Cruz for Vicky Cristina Barcelona

Best Director: Every director in this race is very deserving of the nomination. The race, however, is between the Millionaire and the man who ages backwards. Barring an upset (which wouldn't happen in this category) Danny should have his speech ready.

SHOULD WIN: Danny Boyle for Slumdog Millionaire
WILL WIN: Danny Boyle for Slumdog Millionaire

Best Picture: If an upset is going to happen it will be in this category and will be the biggest since Shakespeare In Love beat out Saving Private Ryan back in 1999. My money's on the Slumdog.

SHOULD WIN: Slumdog Millionaire
WILL WIN: Slumdog Millionaire

Remake Madness

Tomorrow is Friday the 13th and with that comes a new Friday the 13th movie which I have absolutely no intention of seeing or Netflixing. This movie, the 12th in the series, is supposedly a reworking of the first 3 Friday the 13th movies. Apparently, the original three just weren't good enough. I remember seeing the first film at the drive-in with my mom and dad. My mom liked horror movies; I was 7. By the way, I'm a good case study for children who grow up watching horror movies turning out just fine, thank you. Anyway, I have seen all of the other Friday the 13th films, including that so-stupid-it's-funny one with Freddy Krueger. Speaking of Freddy Krueger, there's a remake of Nightmare On Elm Street slated to be released as well.

Enough already! Didn't they learn anything when they remade Psycho? Talk about stinky!!! And the remakes just keep on coming; Star Trek, The Taking Of Pelham 1-2-3 and I'm sure there are plenty others in addition to such classics as Ocean's Eleven, A Christmas Carol, The Longest Yard and Time Machine, to name just a few.

And don't even get me started on the sequels and the movie versions of television shows. Why can't we just have more originality? Is that so much to ask for? I know the saying, 'there are no original ideas' but there are original ways to tell those ideas.

I for one will be enjoying my Friday the 13th (no, I'm not superstitious) away from the movie theater.

peace,

paul

Gorgeous Grammys & Gaffes

Ok, I admit, I don't usually watch the Grammys simply because they are usually long and boring (funny, all my friends say the same thing about the Oscars). So, since they feel free to diss the Oscars, I'm going to go off on the Grammys. Apparently I'm not the only one who thought this year's Grammys were tiresome and produced some truly bizarre moments; not the least of which was Jay-Z hopping on stage to rap while Coldplay frontman Chris Martin played the group's "Lost". Surprisingly, however, that little pair-up did seem to work.

The same cannot be same for Miley Cyrus and Taylor Swift who dueted on the song "15". Frankly, it would have sounded better if just Swift had done the singing. Hannah Montana, oops, I mean Miley wasn't bad but she really should stick to the lower register; it sounded like she was reaching and screeching on the high notes.

One superstar who should not count the Grammys as a high note in her career is Whitney Houston. While presenting the award for Best R&B Album to Jennifer Hudson (and offering praise to Clive Davis) Houston appeared as spacy as ever. Crack, anyone??? Ok, I kid but she did keep pausing and is it just me or was there something wrong with her eyes? Maybe she needs glasses to read the teleprompter or maybe she just needs some sunshine.

Speaking of spacy, Sugarland singer Jennifer Nettles gave Whitney a run for her money when she got up on stage to accept Sugarland's award for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. When she wasn't fawning over Paul McCartney (strategically placed in the front row-the Jack Nicholson of the Grammys if you will) she was tittering nervously. Too much bubbly, perhaps? At least she wasn't doing that nasal thing she does when she sings. Don't get me wrong, I like the group but Jennifer please sing from your diaphragm once in a while.

And the strangeness just kept on coming: When Craig Ferguson wasn't talking about his nomination for "Best sex tape", Kanye West was getting a dig in at the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences about how he never won a Best New Artist Grammy-just before naming the nominees of...Best New Artist.

There were some nice red carpet dresses-Miley Cyrus, Carrie Underwood, Sheryl Crow but what was Carrie wearing during her song "Last Name"? She just looked trashy and the dress looked like it had been ripped. Perhaps during her drinking binge she talks about in the song? And poor Jennifer Hudson...I'm glad she won and decided to actually sing as opposed to lip-synching (National Anthem, anyone?) but her dress was hideous. It looked like she had a jumbo size bib and she was ready for the lobster eating contest. I hope she retires that dress by burning it; it didn't do her justice.

I only watched about two hours of the show before finally giving up and it's a good thing I did because in 3 1/2 hours, they only gave out 10 awards. 10!!!!!! Even the Oscars have 24. That's 8 for each hour, approximately.

Ok, everyone, back to the recording studios for another year of great music. But please, if you plan on pairing up with someone outside of your genre, make it sublime.

peace,

paul

cool video

Check out this sucker!!!! A snake big enough to eat a cow? Yikes.

peace,

paul

http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/?cl=11875445

Wednesday windbag

Ok, first of all, I've got nothing against people who chew tobacco; in fact, my first lover chewed tobacco much to my disgust but I believe there are appropriate and inappropriate places to do it. Having said that, I was appalled yesterday while in line at Blockbuster. The way the line forms in this particular Blockbuster is it kind of snakes around some candy displays and from where I was standing I was able to make a quarter turn in order to see who was standing behind me and get a front view of the cash registers. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw the guy behind me holding a cup in one hand and his movies in the other. In the cup he was spitting...His chewing tobacco!!!! It was all I could do to keep my jaw from dropping to the video store floor. I was grossed out; not only by the effrontery of the man but by his brazen display of his nasty habit. In a few years he'll probably have cancer of the mouth, lose part of his tongue and still be chewing. I don't care if you chew, just don't do it in a public place, especially where children might be.

It's not a good time to be Down Under because you might find a snake in your toilet or crocs on the road. Continued storms in Sydney have sent the wildlife scurrying for dry land or some sort of safe haven. The poor crocs are being washed into the streets. One 5.25-foot-long croc had to be treated for an eye injury and several broken teeth (aren't broken teeth on a crocodile a good thing?...The less to eat you with). As for the snakes, people have taken to shooing them out the door with brooms. If you live in Australia, try to stay dry and double check the toilet before sitting down!

peace,

paul

weekly post from January 31, 2009

Hello Friends & Loved Ones,

Another week has gone by and tomorrow marks the first day of the second month of the year. Where did January go? And how did I get to the eve of my 36th birthday so quickly? It seems like just yesterday I was celebrating my 30th birthday down in Florida in that Mexican restaurant and I was telling myself this will be the year I go completely outspoken. Well, I've had some failures and missteps along the way but this year has started out with a bang in terms of me laying it on the line and being completely open and honest in all areas of my life.

This is also the year I reconnect with friends I've lost touch with (and keep that connection) and with the church. I am determined to make my 36th year my best one yet. I'm doing new things that stretch my comfort, including shaving my head which will happen on March 1. This will be done to show solidarity with a woman at church going through chemotherapy. I've also got my own youtube video. It was done with the help of a co-worker and since I had never experienced the thrill of talking with a helium voice, she was willing to help me enhance the moment by recording it. I had received the balloon and I wanted to inhale the helium but no one would "play" with me. My co-worker finally relented after we were done working for the day.

Enjoy the video! Below is the link.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z4MBQtlsaNM

Until next week, stay connected and remember to stay happy, stay healthy and stay safe.

love,

paul

Don't look...It's the President

Check out this video of a marching band on the day of Barack Obama's inauguration. Apparently if you are a drum major in a marching band you are not supposed to wink or nod to the President if he waves to you. This guy did it and got suspended for 6 months. WHAT!!!??????!!!! How utterly absurd. It's the President. Maybe they thought he was flirting with President Obama because of the wink. Oh, Michelle must have been burning with jealousy.

peace,

paul

http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/?cl=11756131

what I'm listening to

No, I don't have an ipod nor do I really have any interest in getting one. Nor doI download from the internet to get all of my music; although, I have done it a couple of times. I am of the "purchase my music at the record store" school; either that or I buy it online. I still buy full length albums (yes, I still call them albums) and do not usually discriminate as to who I buy because one of these days I will be a part-time DJ at parties, weddings and other types of gatherings. But I do still have yet to buy Britney Spears's new album.

Anyway, the album I'm currently (yes, right at this very moment) listening to and enjoying is Pink's Funhouse. Her fifth (and possibly most personal) studio album features some rockin' and emotional anthems, downright somber ballads and just about everything in-between. A few of my favorites:

Ave Mary A: Between the toils and troubles all around the world and the fact that hate is prevalent no matter where you go, there must be someone who can help us slow down, take inventory and love. Apparently not! Even Mary left the chaotic and mad world. The title is a play on Ave Maria and, I actually had to look this up, but Ave is Latin for Hail and then Mary, so Hail, Mary. I don't know how to say a Hail Mary because I wasn't raised Catholic but apparently they are useful for redeeming yourself for any sins you may have committed.

Sober: This mid-tempo power ballad describes the struggle between loving yourself without any crutches or leaning on anyone and relying on a vice to help us feel good about ourselves. It's a very personal song and the meaning on Wikipedia is very interesting. Apparently it was written when Pink threw a party and everyone except for her was drunk. She just wanted them to leave and she wondered how she could "feel this good sober."

It's All Your Fault: You meet the perfect man or woman and they call you beautiful but you find yourself wanting to leave and then you're forced to leave. The struggle that we sometimes put ourselves through instead of just being happy.

The whole album is really good and deserves a listen. Even if you've never heard Pink a lot of the songs are mainstream enough for even the fussiest listener.

Whatever you're listening to, enjoy.

peace,

paul

Inaugural Day Daily Show Episode

http://www.thedailyshow.com/full-episodes/index.jhtml?episodeId=216535

Enjoy,

paul

Announcing the contenders

Brangelina go head to head; no love for Dirty Harry or DiCaprio; surprising nominees all around and Ledger gets a third act on his anniversary.







Yes, the nominees for the 81st Annual Academy Awards were announced the morning of January 22, incidentally the day Heath Ledger was found dead one year ago, and there were some surprises and disappointments including by me. I did not make at least 37 correct guesses, which was my goal. Out of 40 nominees, I only correctly guessed 36.







I did terribly in the best actress and original screenplay category. Herewith, the nominees broken down.







Best Picture & Director: All five in both categories actually match up and with The Dark Knight and Revolutionary Road (Hollywood movies both) both mysteriously shut out of both races, chances are it will come down to the old man who ages backwards and the young man who goes all the way on Millionaire. Slumdog Millionaire and The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button will undoubtedly be duking it out. Another shut-out, Revolutionary Road and a surprise sneak in by The Reader.







Adapted & Original Screenplay: Clint Eastwood's tour-de-force Gran Torino was completely shut out of the major races. No real surprises in the Adapted category but In Bruges and Frozen River made it into the Original category and deservedly so.







Actor: No love for Clint Eastwood for his performance as a bigoted Korean War Vet. Nor was Leonardo DiCaprio named for his role as part of a couple who suffer marital discord in the 50's. Surprise name: Richard Jenkins in The Visitor. This film came out pretty early on in the year and the fact that he is one of the 5 proves that the tide is beginning to turn in the Academy. Young blood is evident with the announcement of his name.





Supporting Actor: My guess is it will be between Heath Ledger and Robert Downey, Jr. although people are placing their bets on Ledger becoming only the second person to posthumously be awarded an Oscar. Surprise name: Michael Shannon for Revolutionary Road.





Actress: A lot of shut-outs here, including Sally Hawkins for Happy-Go-Lucky (she won a number of critics awards AND the Golden Globe), Kate Winslet for Revolutionary Road (she instead got a lead actress, as opposed to supporting actress for The Reader...she won both awards at the Globes) and Kristin Scott Thomas for I've Loved You So Long. Another home-run for this British actress. Surprise name: Melissa Leo for Frozen River. Who? Exactly. I saw the film and she did a good job and the film was very well done but it's almost shocking that she got named because any other year she would not have even been a serious contender. This is more proof that the tide in the Academy is slowly turning.





Supporting Actress: No real big surprises except Taraji P. Henson finally got a nomination (she should have been nominated several years ago for her role in Hustle & Flow). As long as Marisa Tomei (as talented as she is) doesn't win this category AGAIN, I don't care who wins.





Below: The major nominees and in parantheses the total number of times they've been nominated, including this time around and how many times they've previously won).

Director:

David Fincher-The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button (1st nom)

Ron Howard-Frost/Nixon (2nd nom, 1 win)

Gus Van Sant-Milk (2nd nom)

Stephen Daldry-The Reader (3rd nom)

Danny Boyle-Slumdog Millionaire (1st nom)

Actor:

Richard Jenkins-The Visitor (1st nom)

Frank Langella-Frost/Nixon (1st nom)

Sean Penn-Milk (5th nom, 1 win)

Brad Pitt-The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button (2nd nom)

Mickey Rourke-The Wrestler (1st nom)

Supporting Actor:

Josh Brolin-Milk (1st nom)

Robert Downey, Jr.-Tropic Thunder (2nd nom)

Philip Seymour Hoffman-Doubt (3rd nom)

Heath Ledger-The Dark Knight (2nd nom)

Michael Shannon-Revolutionary Road (1st nom)

Actress:

Anne Hathaway-Rachel Getting Married (1st nom)

Angelina Jolie-Changeling (2nd nom, 1 win)

Melissa Leo-Frozen River (1st nom)

Meryl Streep-Doubt (15th nom, 2 wins)

Kate Winslet-The Reader (6th nom)

Supporting Actress:

Amy Adams-Doubt (2nd nom)

Penelope Cruz-Vicky Cristina Barcelona (2nd nom)

Viola Davis-Doubt (1st nom)

Taraji P. Henson-The Curious Case Of Benjamn Button (1st nom)

Marisa Tomei-The Wrestler (3rd nom, 1 win)

The awards will be handed out on Sunday, February 22 and I'll be making my picks as to who I thnk will win.

peace,

paul

Historical Day

The 44th President, Barack Obama, was sworn into office today and the lukewarm response by Rev. Rick Warren and Chief Justice John Robert's mess up of the oath notwithstanding, the moment was historic, emotional and a first for the U.S.A. The first African-American President; how wonderfully amazing. For those of you who thought that Barack messed up first (he never did quite say the phrase correctly) the correct wording of the oath is below along with a video of the exchange. Just for the record, Barack did have the oath memorized; he should have just continued despite Roberts's misspeaking.

peace,

paul

Oath as written in the Constitution: "I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States."

Click on the link below for a transcript and video of the awkward moment.

http://donklephant.com/2009/01/20/chief-justice-roberts-messes-up-presidential-oath-of-office/

weekly email from January 17, 2009

Hello friends & loved ones,

It's a deep freeze here and just about everywhere else around the country. It's so cold that you can use a bammer to build things (check out my blog).

2009 is shaping up to be quite a different year from 2008 and it's all good. It's truly a new day. As the country prepares to celebrate a remarkable precedent-the swearing in of the 44th President who just happens to be the first African-American President of the U.S.-it seems the whole country is feeling they are on the brink of a new era in many ways.

For me, this is the year that I go completely outside of my comfort zone in my entire life. Looking back at 2008, I realize I've made many mistakes; some of which I may never be able to make up for and I am going to strive to NOT make those same mistakes again; this year or any year. I can see how far I've come in a number of areas of my life and some areas in which I regressed and really need to focus on getting better at. It's sometimes distressing to think we're going along just fine, really growing and being a better person and then we backtrack...OUCH! It's all part of the learning process that we all go through, it's not something we need to dwell on we just need to make an effort to be stronger and more vigilant in our determination to be the best we can be. Listen at that, I sound like an advertisement for the armed forces.

Wherever you are in your life, I pray you have the fortitude to follow through with your goals for yourself...everyday.

As for me, I'm so far measuring up to the bar I've set and even surprising myself along the way.

Each of you continues to be in my prayers.

Peace,

paul

cool video

Talk about unlikely friends.....Enjoy.

paul


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cBtFTF2ii7U

Naming the Nominees

Typically, the Academy Award nominations are announced on a Tuesday morning about a month from the date of the show, however, this year the new President will be sworn in on that Tuesday and so the new day is Thursday, Jan. 22. Out of 40 nominees, I am aiming for at least 37 correct. Wish me luck!

Best Adapted Screenplay:
The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button
Doubt
Frost/Nixon
The Reader
Slumdog Millionaire

Best Original Screenplay:
Frozen River
Gran Torino
Milk
Happy-Go-Lucky
Wall-E

Best Supporting Actor:
Michael Shannon-Revolutionary Road
Heath Ledger-The Dark Knight
Josh Brolin-Milk
Philip Seymour Hoffman-Doubt
Robert Downey, Jr-Tropic Thunder
(upset-James Franco for Milk)

Best Supporting Actress:
Penelope Cruz-Vicki Cristina Barcelona
Viola Davis-Doubt
Taraji P. Henson-The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button
Marisa Tomei-The Wrestler
Amy Adams-Doubt

Best Actor:
Sean Penn-Milk
Frank Langella-Frost/Nixon
Brad Pitt-The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button
Mickey Rourke-The Wrestler
Richard Jenkins-The Visitor

Best Actress:
Sally Hawkins-Happy-Go-Lucky
Kate Winslet-Revolutionary Road
Anne Hathaway-Rachel Getting Married
Meryl Streep-Doubt
Angelina Jolie-Changeling
(upsets-Emma Thompson for Last Chance Harvey & Kristin Scott Thomas for I've Loved You So Long)

Best Director:
Danny Boyle-Slumdog Millionaire
David Fincher-The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button
Gus Van Sant-Milk
Ron Howard-Frost/Nixon
Stephen Daldry-The Reader

Best Picture:
The Dark Knight
The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button
Frost/Nixon
Milk
Slumdog Millionaire

Stay tuned....

peace,

paul

Best & Worst of 2008

There were some really good movies in 2008; a great deal of mediocre ones and a slew of terrible ones. The following lists are based on movies that I have seen. Movies I have not yet seen- either because they are still sitting in my Netflix queue, they haven't been released in Rottenchester yet or because I've just been too darn lazy to move my butt on over to the moviehouse-are not on this list.

The Best (in no particular order):

Appaloosa: Based on Robert B. Parker's novel, this film tells the story of two riders (Viggo Mortensen and director Ed Harris) who are longtime friends. They soon become hired to rid the town of big baddie Randall Bragg played by Jeremy Irons (even his name sounds bad). Throw in 'lil lady Allison French (Renee Zellweger) and you've got yourself the makings of a threesome or at least some romantic entanglements. Harris did his homework and took more than a few notes from Clint Eastwood to fashion this nicely paced and suspenseful western.

Pineapple Express: This outrageous and shocking movie stars Seth Rogen as a process server who smokes some good stuff man and then witnesses a murder. He gets away but too bad he leaves the joint behind. These people are not even close to being the smartest tools in the shed (too many tokes?) but the film is funny and entertaining (not as funny as Superbad-another Rogen film) and there's never a dull moment.

When Did You Last See Your Father?:Boy is raised by a gruff, imperfect father; Boy grows up into man who resents his father; Father is diagnosed with terminal cancer; Man must come to grips with his feelings for his father. The cast is wonderful-Juliet Stevenson, Colin Firth and Jim Broadbent. Great acting and nicely directed.

American Teen: The focus is on four seniors in a small Indiana town. The trials and tribulations of being a high-schooler are brought into sharp focus through Hannah, Colin, Mitch & Megan. There's geeks, superbitches and everything in between in this eye-opening documentary. Plus, we get to see where they are now.

Wall-E: This animated film set in the way distant future tells of the love between a waste collecting robot (or Waste Allocation Load Lifter Earth-class) and an Extraterrestrial Vegetation Evaluator and their trip to space together.

Son Of Rambow: This coming-of-age friendship tale is both heartening and depressing. Will is not allowed to watch tv or see movies but is great at expressing himself through his drawings. Once he meets school bully, Lee Carter, who shows Will the original Rambo film, the two embark on the making of their own Rambo movie which could be their undoing.

The Dark Knight: Damn! This had to be Heath Ledger's last film. Yes, his performance is over the top but it's also quite good. He's friggin' nuts! Christopher Nolan directs his second batman film (the 6th overall) and it's a rollicking good time. Starring Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, Aaron Eckhart and Maggie Gyllenhaal this is a blockbuster.

Man On Wire: The engrossing documentary tells the daring feat of Philippe Petit and his attempt and, ultimate accomplishment, of crossing between the two towers of the World Trade Center on a high wire. The film is completely mesmerizing and entertaining with some breathtaking footage.

Burn After Reading: Two gym employees get their hands on what they believe to be secrets from the CIA and then proceed to extort money from the owner of the disc. The film's plot hinges on breast enhancement and features Pitt in one of his most entertaining roles to date. Shocks, blood and violence abound as this is a Coen brothers film. Be warned!

Gran Torino: Bigoted Korean War vet Walt Kowalski finds himself living next door to some people of the Hmong community and he becomes enmeshed within their lives after one of the family members attempts to steal his precious 1972 Gran Torino. Great story, wonderful character development and frickin' Clint Eastwood badder than ever!

The Booed!

Hancock: Yes, I'm dissing a Will Smith movie. A superhero falls into disrepute and a publicist tries to get him back on track so he can save the city. Not a bad premise but a terrible execution and a waste of a good cast. In addition to Smith, there's Jason Bateman and Charlize Theron.

88 Minutes: False advertising aside (the movie is actually 108 mins), this Al Pacino stinker has more holes than a piece of swiss cheese. Not to mention the ending can be seen before the opening credits are through rolling.

The Happening: Something in the air is killing people! Maybe it's bird droppings. M. Night Shyamalan has certainly fallen from the top of the ladder and now he's stuck in the mud. He needs a complete reinvention. What could have been a wonderful environmental lesson turned into a mishmash of a movie. It's not even scary or suspenseful. By the end, I was hoping that everyone would just die.

The Strangers: Another unsatisfying horror movie. This one is supposedly based on real events; although the veracity of said events is uncertain. The main inspiration is Helter Skelter, which is based on the Manson family murders. Two pretty people Kristen McKay and James Hoyt (Scott Speedman & Liv Tyler) are attacked in the Hoyt vacation home. The people wear funny Halloween masks and there's never any reason why they are hell-bent on torturing these two people. Why, man, why?????

The Ruins: Another horror film (this one based on a book that I thought was terrible). The premise is interesting, albeit far-fetched. Four friends head to Cancun and ultimately end up at the site of an archaeological dig in search of someone. What they don't realize is they won't be able to leave. Ever! No surprise ending on this one.

Wanted: Based on the comic book miniseries of the same name and starring Angelina "Lips" Jolie, Wanted is the story of assassins going all badass on each other. Another wasted cast; Besides Jolie, there's James McAvoy and Morgan Freeman. The ending was ridiculous but I will say this there are some kick-ass special effects.

The Boy In The Striped Pajamas: Another film based on a book, which I should have read before going into this depressing WWII set movie. It tells the story of two eight-year-old boys (one who's father is a high-ranking Nazi official; the other who's living in a concentration camp) who strike up a friendship and even play a little ball together. However, soon their friendship becomes dangerous. The film is directed nicely and the lead character, Bruno (Asa Butterfield) is very expressive.

The Secret Life Of Bees: A young white girl goes to live with three African-American women while searching for the truth about her mother in South Carolina in 1964. Based on the wildly popular Sue Monk Kidd book, the film doesn't translate very well and I'm not sure Dakota Fanning was the best choice for the lead character. Produced by Will Smith and his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith, with a talented cast (Queen Latifah, Sophie Okonedo, Paul Bettany and Jennifer Hudson) you'd think with all that "power" the film would be a knockout. It wasn't.

You Don't Mess With The Zohan: Terrible, terrible and terrible. This movie was all over the place and wasn't even funny; just shockingly disturbing. Tired of fighting for the Israeli Special Forces, Zohan Dvir (Adam Sandler) fakes his own death and goes to America where he ends up as, what else?, a hairstylist who gives his customers a little extra sumptin' sumptin'. This includes Charlotte "Mrs. Garrett" Rae. Yecch! Ugh! My eyes will never be the same.

Cloverfield: What was billed as the first big and exciting movie of 2008 ended up being a dud. There were a few scary (not jumpy) parts but the monster in this thing was a huge (literally) disappointment. A creature attacks NYC and the only thing left behind is the video footage. Yes, it is reminiscent of 9/11 and, unlike other more talented social commentators, producer JJ Abrams doesn't say anything worthwhile in this film. Just for the record-the whole film is seen from the point of view of a handheld video camera. Shaky and unclear footage dominates the film and the stories of people feeling nauseous aren't just stories.

Looking forward to seeing what 2009 will have to offer....

peace,

paul

cool video

Check this out. The bammer doesn't seem too effective at getting the nails to go into the wood but it sure sounds like it would cause some damage if it was thrown at you.

peace,

paul


http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/weather/2009/01/15/kare.banana.hammer.cnn

From pipes to pens

He's Baaaaaaaack.....The infamous Joe The Plumber who was made famous during the Presidential election race will no longer be toting around the toolbox. Instead, he's off to Israel to try his hand at being a war correspondent for the conservative web site pjtv.com

He'll spend a total of 10 days to bring coverage of the fighting currently going on over the Gaza strip.

According to Joe Wurselbacher (yes, that's his last name) he wants to let Israel's '"Average Joes' share their story." Shouldn't that be plural, like Joes'?

Good luck, Joe!

peace,

paul

Costly China

No, I'm not talking about China the country, I'm talking about the mega-expensive chinaware that the outgoing Bushes have just purchased so that the Obamas can have their first White House dinner party in style. The cost: $485,000!!!!! What???? Don't they have any idea how many other things, which are way more useful, they can buy with that kind of money?

Thankfully, there is a private foundation that foots the bill so the rest of us, the taxpayers who use paper plates (haha), don't have to pay for it.

Here's an idea: Just go to Target, get a matching set of dishes and use those for the world's leaders and dignitaries. I'll bet they would never know the difference because Target has some really nice things.

peace,

paul

fun pics

Pics of me in Calgary a few years ago feeding a ground squirrel. Loads of fun and I could have done it all day long. Click on the pictures to see them better.

Enjoy,

paul

Rant of the week

Well, Happy New Year to all of you readers in cyber land. The streamers are barely all cleaned up and I'm already complaining about something. This time it has to do with the laziness that pervades our culture; particularly the laziness of our schoolchildren.

No matter how many buses I may get stuck behind on my way to work in the morning, I'm always annoyed and perplexed at the fact that the buses stop at almost every house in order to pick up one student at a time. Door to door service is alive and well when it comes to picking up kids for school. Is it that difficult to have kids walk a little bit in order to have ONE GENERAL PICK-UP SPOT???? No wonder most of our children are overweight, they can't even walk half a block. No, every single child has to have the bus meet them in front of their own house. And half the time they aren't even out there waiting; they're inside (yes, it is nice and warm but that's what hats and mittens are for) and the bus driver has to honk the horn and then the child has to walk, oh, no, not run but walk to the bus. A little exercise doesn't hurt; in fact, it's very beneficial as many health experts have proven time and time again.

Lay off the chips and cookies and walk a bit to A bus stop. Better yet, if you live a mile or less from school then walk to school and save the bus and us a stop or two or three.

peace,

paul

funny video

You may not like Richard Simmons but you have to admit he is passionate about keeping our kids fit and healthy. Check out this video of him on a morning talk show and watch it until the end when he does something completely absurd but right in line with his character.

peace,

paul


http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/bestoftv/2009/01/05/am.intv.simmons.cnn

weekly post from December 25, 2008

Hello friends & loved ones,

I had not anticipated writing another email before Christmas but so much has happened since I last wrote that I decided to share some more. At work on Tuesday we had a Festivus celebration (For those of you who don't know what the heck Festivus is, it's a holiday that was talked about in a Seinfeld episode and is a pseudo holiday where things like the Airing of Grievances, Feats of Strength and the anti Christmas tree, a stark aluminum pole all feature prominently.). We did the Airing of Grievances which was more of a top 10 things that happened this past year that related to the company or the 11th floor and not actual grievances against specific people. There was plenty of food and the feats of strength were very interesting and lots of fun. I participated in 3 team events (the 4th was the Hula Hoop competition which I would have done terribly in) sit-ups, push-ups and password. I choked on the sit-ups (not for lack of trying, I'm convinced the person holding my feet was not holding them down tight enough) and these were military style; half-up, up, down, half up, half down, etc.... The winner was this tiny girl (really a young woman) whose parents came from India and she and I were the last ones "standing" during the push-ups competition which I handily won. Again, it was half up, down, half down, up, etc... One of the guys in the push-ups competition (there were four including me) was a football player who was the first to croak.

The password competition was also something I/my team dominated in. We won two rounds of password. I was the giver and the receiver was a good ten years younger than me and actually guessed Jane when given the clue of plain. So, if I'm ever at a party and you play password, I'm your giver. I was a little upset I lost the sit-ups for my team but then someone said that it was good because another team got some glory too.

This evening is the annual candlelight Christmas Eve service where me and Michelle will sing our yearly rendition of O Holy Night; my favorite carol. I hope wherever you are today, tonight, tomorrow and in the coming days that you are safe, healthy and happy.

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays to your household.

love,

paul

weekly post from December 6, 2008

Hello friends & loved ones:

Hard to believe that it's December already and soon it will be a new year filled with new possibilities and new adventures. However, let's not forget that it doesn't take a new year for the discovery of new and exciting experiences; they can come any day and at anytime.

Last week we had a great time in Florida...Blindingly sunny weather, not a day of long pants and catching up with family and friends. It was so relaxing and enjoyable. Coming back to NY was not easy; especially because the weather was gray and cold.

Looking back on the year, I'm thankful for the friendships and relationships I have, the gifts I've been blessed with and my good health. Everything else is just icing.

Take the time in the coming weeks to reflect on the people you are thankful for and then show them how glad you are to have them in your life.

Remember to pray for each other as I pray for you and stay safe, stay happy and stay healthy.

weekly post from November 8, 2008

At the war's end: The Feeble Kept One will strike down the Night And his Imbecile Queen will rise from the snow Bedecked in finery and the pelt of a wolf.


Hello friends & loved ones,

No, I haven't started writing abstract poetry that doesn't rhyme. The above was taken from Quatrain 78 in Les Prophecies which was one of Nostradamus's predictions way back in 1555. The prediction, according to a Yale University professor, was that John McCain would take the Presidency; that didn't happen. By now, we all know that history has been made (unless you've been living underground) with the election of the first African American (in all fairness, it's really bi-racial) President. Some interesting statistics about Tuesday's vote: Obama won more votes than any candidate in history; he got a higher percentage of the overall vote than any other Democrat since Lyndon B. Johnson and was the first senator elected to the Presidency since Kennedy. Additionally, he swept the states of Pennsylvania, Ohio, Florida (yes, Florida), Colorado, New Mexico and Virginia, which no Dem has won since 1964. Good stuff!!

This is an exciting time for many Americans and will hopefully serve as a breakthrough for future Presidential elections.

The real test is yet to come: Can Barack Obama effectively lead the free world? Only time will tell. One thing is for certain; it truly is a new day and the possibilities continue to be endless. Too many times we in our daily lives forget to look at the options that are always all around us. I'm not talking about outs or taking the easy road; I'm talking about not letting ourselves get boxed in, realizing that we have so many freedoms of choice and understanding that our life is what WE make it; not the people we're with. Just remember when making your choice: Choices have consequences and do affect those around you one way or another. That's not meant to instill fear, it's meant to make you realize that we should make our choices diligently and do so with certainty.

If you are reading this right now, remember, you are alive and everyday have the chance to achieve greatness. You may not be famous or even known by many but the chance to do something that matters is always present.

Live, love and work as if there's no tomorrow. And as St. Augustine so eloquently put it: "Pray as if everything depends on God. Work as though everything depends on you."

Stay safe, stay healthy and stay happy.

peace,

paul

P.S. 54 days until 2009
47 days until Christmas
19 days until Thanksgiving

words not to be uttered

Every year Lake Superior State University unveils its list of words and phrases that should be banished forever.





Since 1976, LSSU has been compiling this list based on nominations it receives. This year's unlucky words and phrases include "green" or "going green", "maverick", "from Wall Street to Main Street", "game-changing" and "monkey".





The term "first dude" as coined by almost VP Sarah Palin's husband, Todd Palin was also on the list as was the first emoticon to get the boot; the heart which apparently is made using the less than symbol and the #3.





I'd like to offer some of my own: How about "Joe the plumber", "I personally", "with all due respect", "at the end of the day", "it's not rocket science", "going forward", "not so much", "be that as it may", using the word "so" as an adverb as in, "I'm so going to the concert tonight" and my absolute least favorite is using the word "not" to contradict something that was just said. An example of this would be, "I'm so enjoying my time in the car with you...NOT!"



Feel free to send me the words or phrases from 2008 that you never want to hear again.



peace,



paul

This is a sad story and an admonition to all those parents of children who "had to walk 10 miles in the snow just to get to school."

peace,

paul

http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/crime/2008/12/30/id.blizzard.death.charges.kmvt

movie minute

Love letters: The lovely Kristin Scott Thomas has been turning in spectacular performances since she burst onto the scene as unfortunate-in-love Fiona in 1994's Four Weddings & A Funeral. And yet she remains one of the most underrated actresses who just happens to be British & French.

She hits another homerun in her latest film I've Loved You So Long in which she plays Juliette who is released from prison after 15 years and goes to live with her sister Lea (played by the radiant Elsa Zylberstein). The two sisters are estranged to say the least but Juliette and Lea are determined to make it work even as Lea's husband struggles with having Juliette in the house and spending time with the couple's two adopted daughters.

The film is cleverly directed by first-time director Phillippe Claudel and it's wonderfully layered not just in the performances but in the revelations that are slowly shared with us along the way.

This is an intelligent film that follows the two women and the difficulties they face in rebuilding a once seemingly unbreakable friendship and sisterhood. And although Thomas gives an absolutely beautiful performance (most of it devoid of makeup) the climax of the film is a bit implausible but the two actresses make it work somehow and give us hope that the two will forge a new bond that is even stronger than we thought it could be.

Bags of popcorn (out of 5): 3

Oscar nominations

Best Actress-Kristin Scott Thomas
Best Supporting Actress-Elsa Zylberstein

movie minute

Button Up: First of all, if a person is born old as a baby then shouldn't they die young as an adult? That's what bothered me most about direction David Fincher's (Fight Club, Panic Room, Zodiac) new film The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button. The movie reteams Fincher with his golden boy Brad Pitt who plays the title character. After being born with a rare (does it even really exist?) condition, Benjamin ages backwards. He starts out as a baby who is about 80 years old and then proceeds to grow younger; he's his own fountain of youth.

The movie is adapted from F. Scott Fitzgerald's story of the same name but apparently the two have little in common with the exception of their title. Even though the film is 2 hours and 44 minutes long, this picaresque picture glides along at a brisk pace. The film starts just before Hurricane Katrina is due to hit with Daisy, an old woman on her deathbed, telling her daughter the story of how she and Benjamin met. It then moves to post WWI with the birth of Benjamin. As Benjamin begins to "age" he meets a 12-year old Daisy with whom he bonds. She is the same age chronologically that he is mentally. The two continue to meet up year after year as she stays with her grandmother at the boarding house in which he lives.

Benjamin eventually goes off to work on a tugboat and gets caught up in WWII. He also meets British woman Elizabeth Abbott (played by Tilda Swinton) although through it all he and Daisy continue their contact with one another.

Their lives continue to intersect in different ways and as Benjamin realizes Daisy (now a grown up played by the radiant Cate Blanchett) is his true love something awful happens which threatens to permanently tear them apart.

The film has been compared to Forrest Gump and rightly so but the difference is this is a beautfiully written love story of two people who literally meet in the middle to live their lives together.

Aside from the medical implausibility of the film, the only other complaint I had was the interludes with the man who "got struck by lightning seven times." The rest of the cast, particularly Taraji P. Henson who plays Benjamin's "mother" are all good too.

The movie is wonderfully directed and is a shoo-in for Best Picture, Best Director and will earn Brad Pitt another Oscar nomination. He has really matured as an actor and has proven just how deft he is at both drama and comedy (as witnessed by this year's earlier release Burn After Reading in which he played a gay gym employee).

Bags of popcorn (out of 5): 4.25

Oscar nominations:

Best Actor-Brad Pitt
Best Picture
Best Director-David Fincher
Best Screenplay
Best Adapted Screenplay

You, down front, Shhhhhh.....

Who would have thought a movie about a man who ages backwards could be so dangerous? Certainly not the Philadelphia, PA family who took in the film "The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button" on Christmas Day. The family were sitting in front of 29-year-old James Joseph Cialella who threw popcorn at the son in order to get them to stop talking. When that didn't work, Cialella argued with the family and then approached the family from the left. The father stood up and was then shot in the arm by Cialella with a .380 caliber handgun. Cialella was arrested and taken into custody.

I guess going to see the manager to get the family to be quiet was just too easy in this case. Now he'll never know the ending to this almost 3 hour movie!

peace,

paul

movie minute

Slumming for answers: You are reading this movie review because:

(A) You like me
(B) I encouraged you to
(C) It is written
(D) You have nothing better to do for five minutes

And thus begins the new film Slumdog Millionaire, cleverly crafted by maverick British director Danny Boyle (Millions, 28 Days Later, Trainspotting).

First off, the film is not an original idea which I was disheartened to discover. No, it's based on a novel titled Q&A by Indian diplomat Vikas Swarup. Having said that, the movie is still a must see if for no other reason than it's just the positive and uplifting push that India needs right now after the three days of terror that Mumbai experienced in late November; a terror that crippled the city and ended with some resignations by some government officials.

The film cuts between the past and present of street beggar Jamal Malik. When we first see Jamal, he is being interrogated and tortured by the police because they suspect him of cheating on the TV show Kaun Banega Crorepati (the Indian version of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?). Despite the torture, Jamal continues to profess his innocence and that he made it to the final question on the show by actually knowing the answers.

From there, we actually get to see how he knew each of the answers that he was presented with on the show. We see him and his older brother Salim and how they learn to survive on the streets after the brutal death of their mother. Afterwards, one of the city's head gangsters grooms Salim to join his operation in which the brothers would beg for money. Along the way, the brothers also meet orphan Latika who proves to be the love of Jamal's life. He never stops searching for Latika no matter how many times they are separated.

The film moves along at a wonderfully brisk pace and we see each step of the way how the brothers and Latika survive the harsh streets. The past continually brings us back to the present and the next question on the game show and we clearly see how Jamal knew the answer; no matter how difficult the questions become. Fans of the show know that as the contestant racks up the money, the answers to the questions prove more and more elusive.

When Jamal does finally make it to the final question which is worth 20 million rupees, we discover that the slick host is the biggest skeptic as to how Jamal knows all the answers. The host is played by Hindi actor and producer Anil Kapoor; a better looking and suaver version of Regis Philbin. All of the actors in the film believably portray their characters; thus making the film even more engaging.

The end is touching as the whole city is brought together by an unlikely "hero" on a guilty pleasure game show.

This film has been called the Juno or Little Miss Sunshine of the year and I will be surprised if it doesn't go all the way and amass some Oscar nods. Whether it will win the big prize remains up in the air but I will say this: Considering the other movies that are up for nominations for Golden Globes (a good precursor to Oscar nods) Slumdog Millionaire has possibly a better chance of winning Best Picture than Juno or Little Miss Sunshine could have dreamed about.

Bags of popcorn (out of 5): 5

Oscar Nominations Predictions:

Best Picture
Best Director
Best Screenplay
Best Cinematography
Best Score

This little boy just wanted to play.

http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/?rn=3906861&cl=11116126&ch=4226713&src=news

Viral video

No, it doesn't have a virus but it is all over the internet (hence, the word viral). Enjoy but do not try this yourself.

paul


http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/10/video-unhappy-shanghai-lady-tows-the-tow-truck/

Cool commercials

Enjoy....

paul


http://creativity-online.com/work/view?seed=5e32d548

A great article from Newsweek about same sex marriage.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/172653

Food fight

Well this is just bizarre. A man in Vero Beach, FL was arrested on December 4 and faces charges of assault. The weapon a Mickey D's cheeseburger. Yes, those pickles and processed meat can be quite dangerous.

Apparently, the man and his girlfriend were arguing in the car outside of their home. When the man would not let the woman out of the car, she threw his drink out the window (isn't that the logical response?) As a result, the man took his cheeseburger (or maybe it was hers) and smashed it into her face. After the two of them did finally get out of the car, he proceeded to mash the burger into her face a second time. Bluto would be so proud.

peace,

paul

A cool thing for the troops. This will only take a few seconds and is perfect to let troops know you are thinking about them; especially this time of year.

peace,

paul


http://www.letssaythanks.com/

cinema craze

It's that time of year when movie studios begin pumping out the big guns. No, not the shoot-em-up, car chasing, guns ablazing films but the ones they have high hopes will score some nominations for little golden men. Oscar season is my absolute favorite time of year and this year is no exception and I've already begun my movie watching spree. However, some movies are more anticipated than others and this year there are 5 that I am absolutely chomping at the bit to watch. Sadly, I have to be at the beck and call of release dates and limited openings. In the meantime, I'll just talk about them (some more). Below the five films on my MUST SEE plate.

Slumdog Millionaire: This movie is the Juno or Little Miss Sunshine of 2008. Director Danny Boyle (Trainspotting, 28 Days Later) fashions a heartwarming movie that tells the tale of Jamal, a young lad living in modern day India who is constantly getting into trouble. After Jamal and his older brother witness their mother brutally murdered, they turn to the streets and become slumdogs.

The story takes a turn when Jamal finds himself on India's version of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire and finds that he is smarter than he thought and becomes to win buckets of money. However, detractors are not far behind and soon begin questioning how a slumdog knows so much.

This film won the Audience Award at the 2008 Toronto International Film Festival and is sure to be a crowd pleaser. It's also been rumored that it could snag a nomination for Best Picture (just like Juno and Little Miss Sunshine did).

Milk: Gus Van Sant is back with the first non-documentary about activist and politician Harvey Milk. This film has LONG been in the making; not this particular film but it's been known for many years that different directors and actors were looking to make this movie. Sean Penn snagged the title role and completely immerses himself in the part and into the polyester era.

The movies follows Harvey's rise to being the first openly gay politician and his eventual assassination by city supervisor Dan White. White is played by Josh Brolin, who like Penn, seems to be getting better with age. James Franco, Diego Luna and Emile Hirsch also star in this film that screams OSCAR. By the way, if you look at a picture of the real Harvey Milk and Sean Penn in character as Milk, they really do look the same.

The Reader: Based on the book by Bernhard Schlink, The Reader is a WWII set movie in which a young boy becomes fascinated with an older woman. The woman is played by 5-time Academy Award nominee Kate Winslet. The two begin a relationship and then lose touch. Several years later, they happen upon each other again; this time the boy is in school doing research on and she is on trial. This movie is not a happy one (nor was the book) but the performances are sure to be terrific and Winslet is in not one, but two highly anticipated movies this season. The other is with her Titanic co-star Leonardo DiCaprio in Revolutionary Road. Winslet's biggest competition for her sixth Oscar nomination (which she is certain to get for Best Actress unless she get Supporting) is Meryl Streep.

Which brings me to the next film...

Doubt, starring Streep herself. Based on the Pulitzer Prize winning play and directed by John Patrick Shanley (the playwright himself), Doubt is set in the Bronx in 1964 and tells the story of domineering principal Sister Aloysius (Streep) who when she gets wind that the charismatic Father Flynn (Philip Seymour Hoffman) has been spending too much time with the school's first black studnet, Sister Aloysius decides that something is amiss and that Flynn has to go.

I did not have the pleasure of seeing the play but this film looks HOT. I've heard that some critics think Streep is unconvincing as Sister Aloysius but the trailer looks as if she might be able to pull it off. What makes this film really interesting is the boy's mother is Tony award winning Viola Davis (Nights In Rodanthe, Antwone Fisher) who decides to go toe to toe with Sister Aloysius over matters relating to her son. The scene with Davis and Streep better crackle with energy and the whole movie better be nothing short of brilliant because this is the one of all of them I'm looking most forward to. The cast is rounded out by Amy Adams (so good in Enchanted and Junebug) and there are rumors that this could be the first film in a long time to garner Oscar nominations from all four main actors.

I've Loved You So Long: Kristen Scott Thomas is one of those actresses whose beauty sometimes undermines just how talented she really is. The Academy award winning actress plays Juliette who has recently been released from prison. When she is picked up at the airport by her sister Lea (Elsa Zylberstein), the two realize how estranged they really are. From the trailer, it looks as if Thomas gives a heart-wrenching, not to mention makeup free performance which could score her her second Oscar nomination.

Honorable Mentions:

The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button: No, this is not an original screenplay (very few are anymore). The movie is adapted from a story by F. Scott Fitzgerald. A man, Benjamin Button (Brad Pitt in full make-up mode) is born in his 80's and slowly ages backwards. This is another movie that screams Oscar and it's a good bet this one could make it to the top race come January. That really is Brad Pitt's (almost a shoo-in for his second Oscar nom) face throughout the movie (and not Gollum's better looking cousin). The movie also features Cate Blanchett, Taraji P. Henson, Julia Ormond and last year's Supporting Actress winner Tilda Swinton.

Defiance: How could I resist the piercing blue eyes of James Bond portrayer Daniel Craig? He plays one of four Jewish brothers in this film based on the true story of said brothers helping Russian resistance fighters guide Jews to safety in Nazi occupied Poland during WWII. The movie also stars Jamie Bell (Billy Elliott all grown up).

Happy Viewing...


peace,

paul

music scene

Who says there's nothing good on the radio? There are a number of songs I'm enjoying that are currently in heavy rotation. By the way, the new album by The Killers (Day & Age) is definitely worth the price. Which brings us to the first song, the first single from that album...

"Human" by The Killers: Who cares if the lyrics are cryptic "Are we human or are we dancer? My sign is vital, my hands are cold." What???? It doesn't matter if you're still clueless because the driving beat in this song is a foot-stomping one and makes me want to bob my head and jump up and down with feel good excitement.

"So What" by Pink: Please do not exceed word count.'" by Pink: It's hard to believe that Pink has been around for about eight years. The first single from her fifth studio album is as in your face as ever. When she's not singing about losing her husband, getting into fights and grousing that her table was just given away to Jessica Simpson, Pink is telling that no good louse what a tool he is and how she's having more fun than she ever did when he was around. Ouch! Another foot stomper with some head banging thrown in for good measure.

"Just Dance" by Lady GaGa: Less famously known as Joanne Stefani Germanotta, New York born Lady GaGa's first single from her The Fame album is a perfect club song. We all know what it's like to be the center of attention on the dance floor, don't we? We're out with friends, having fun, maybe one too many drinks and then our ABSOLUTE FAVORITE song comes on and we have to strut our stuff right to the center of the floor. This one's a hip shaker.

"Love Story" by Taylor Swift: Swift's first single from her second album is one of those country songs that kind of sound like pop. In fact, the first time I heard it I thought it was Jewel (who's actually gone country). It's a sweet song that talks about love ala Romeo and Juliet. Two young lovers overcome seemingly insurmountable odds (including one very strict father) to become betrothed to each other.

"Right Now" by Akon: Let's face it Akon or Aliaune Thiam, is still hot (and I mean in terms of success). His first single from his third album is another one of those songs he's become famous for. The ones that get inside your head and refuse to exit. This time it's about a couple who break up (my guess is it was the guy's fault) and he realizes his mistake and pleads with her to make up and link up...right now. The song is a bit racy during the bridge when Akon sings "I wish you could dine with me, one that would grind with me". There's no subtlety there now is there?

"If I Were A Boy" by Beyonce: In this song, pop/R&B princess Beyonce ruminates on how she would act and treat her lady love if she were in fact of the male persuasion. And if I were a girl, I'd wear the flashiest dresses, strut around in the highest heels and stare at myself in the mirror remarking on how pretty I am (oh, wait, I already do that one).

So those are a few of the songs I'm liking these days. What are YOU listening to?

peace,

paul

Hunter becomes hunted

Deer season has started and fellows (and ladies) let's be careful out there. There have been so many stories of hunters being shot by their buddies (hello, Cheney) that it's ridiculous. Now there's a new danger to contend with; your kill striking back.

In Missouri, a hunter was nearly maimed to death by a 9-point, 240lb buck after he shot it twice. Randy Goodman used his .270-caliber rifle to kill the horned beast and was probably thinking about how proud his buddies would be as he approached the seemingly dead animal. Once Goodman reached Bambi's father, the deer jumped up and struck Goodman with an antler before trying to escape. Two more shots did the trick; for real this time. Goodman recalls the moment as "15 second of hell". He not only got bragging rights but also paid for it with a concussion, bruises and 7 new staples in his thick head. No word on whether he needed new underpants.

peace,

paul

movie minute

Oztalia: The magnificent and brilliantly artistic Baz Luhrmann is back with a movie that is as grand as the country it is set in. Australia is a sweeping epic that is visually stunning from start to finish.

The movie is set just before WWII and tells the story of Lady Sarah Ashley (the beautiful as ever Nicole Kidman) and her struggle to finish what her husband Maitland Ashley started; bringing a cattle farm in the harsh outback of Australia back to life. The film is told from the point of view of Nullah (played by Brandon Walters) an aborigine whose mother dies while hiding from the police. Sarah takes a maternal interest in the boy and does everything she can to protect him as. As Sarah and the company she has hired struggle to move the cattle to the wharf in order to sell them, she and cattle herder Drover (the talented Hugh Jackman) butt heads over how things should be done. Sarah and Drover are a modern day Rhett and Scarlett and it's clear from the day they first meet that these two are destined to be together.

The main story of the film is not about the fiery relationship between Lady Sarah and Drover but about young Nullah's quest for a home, family and sense of belonging. Nullah becomes a part of Sarah and Drover's family but once the war begins, he is wrenched away from the two and put with all of the other half-casts on Mission Island.

Like Scarlett in Gone With The Wind, Sarah undergoes a major transformation as she discovers within her a courage and strength she did not realize she had. Drover, like Nullah, realizes that he is longing for a family after closing himself off from the pain and disappointment of love. I have to say that this is arguably the best role I've seen Jackman in and the young boy who plays Nullah is incredibly precocious.

The film is a shoo-in for some major Academy Award nominations unless voters are put off by the length. At 2hours and 45 minutes, the film could have been about 20 minutes shorter. Having said that, however, the landscapes, scenery and costumes are amazing and Luhrmann does know how to keep the story moving swiftly.

If you are a fan of Kidman, Jackman or Luhrmann you'll enjoy this movie. If you are a fan of stunning cinematography, you'll enjoy it even more.

Bags of popcorn (out of 5): 3.5

Academy Award nominations predictions:

Best Director
Best Picture
Best Costume Design
Best Cinematography

Long Shot:
Best Actor: Hugh Jackman

encouraging video

My man Keith speaking out for the GLBT people...Yea!!!!

http://www.queerty.com/keith-olbermann-special-comment-on-gay-marriage-20081110/

Enjoy!!!

Wanna quit your day job? Just do what Steve Demeter did. Write a game for a phone. Steve wrote the game "Trism" and put it on Apple's App Store for just $4.99. After just two months, the game earned him over $250,000. Steve promptly quit his job and started his own development studio. He's currently working on five new games, including a sequel to Trism. Trism can currently be played on the iPhone.

peace,

paul

powerful passing

A 13-year-old boy at a Martin County school was arrested by police on November 21 because he was disrupting his class by (get ready for it)....passing gas and turning off the computers of his classmates. What I don't understand is exactly how was he turning off the computers? Was it his mighty wind or was he actually getting up and turning them off? Either way, his mother must have been so proud (not!) when he was released into her custody. That's my boy!!!

peace,

paul

Help...I'm dead!

I may have posted this before but it's too funny NOT to post again. Cop confiscates pot and then bakes it into brownies. The second video is a parody of the first. Enjoy...


http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=1f4_1179038976

http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/5574/marijuana-brownies-the-911-call-from-secretfuntime

Wouldn't hurt a fly

Another bank robbing story this time from California. An elderly grandmother has robbed two banks and both times told the tellers she was being forced into robbing the bank. She played up the fact that she was fearful for her life and even appeared to be strapped to a "bomb". Victim or Genius? You decide...Enjoy the clip.


http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/?rn=4226712&cl=10752950&src=news

Stop that chair...

A 45-year old man in a wheelchair was arrested in Florida last week after allegedly robbing a Space Coast Credit Union. The guy managed to wheel a whole block before being captured by police.

Christopher Reed, a paraplegic, entered the credit union and demanded money and saying he was armed with an explosive device (insert your own joke here).

After being captured, Reed told police that two men forced him to commit the robbery and that he had given the money to the men but eyewitnesses said Reed was the sole culprit and the money was found in Reed's prosthetic leg. Also found; a bottle of vodka in his motorized chair.

What I want to know is how in the world did he get out of the bank in the first place? Is his chair really that fast? And who held the door for him? Did people actually see the explosive device or did they just take his word for it? So many questions that will probably never be answered, alas!

Now Reed will be in jail and he'll have all that he needs: Food, water, exercise, entertainment...

Have a great day.

paul

These are always fun and they'll make you feel better about yourself (unless one of them is about you). Enjoy.

paul


Idiot Number One of 2008:

I am a medical student currently doing a rotation in toxicology at the poison control center. Today, this woman called in very upset because she caught her little daughter eating ants. I quickly reassured her that the ants are not harmful and there would be no need to bring her daughter into the hospital. She calmed down and at the end of the conversation happened to mention that she gave her daughter some ant poison to eat in order to kill the ants. I told her that she better bring her daughter in to the emergency room right away.

Here's your sign, lady. Wear it with pride.

Idiot Number Two of 2008:

Early this year, some Boeing employees on the airfield decided to steal a life raft from one of the 747's. They were successful in getting it out of the plane and home. Shortly after they took it for a float on the river, they noticed a Coast Guard helicopter coming toward them. It turned out that the chopper was homing in on the emergency locater beacon that activated when the raft was inflated. They are no longer employed at Boeing.

Here's your sign, guys. Don't get it wet; the paint might run.


Idiot Number Three of 2008:

A man, wanting to rob a downtown Bank of America, walked into the branch and wrote this, 'Put all your muny in this bag.' While standing in line, waiting to give his note to the teller, he began to worry that someone had seen him write the note and might call the police before he reached the teller's window. So he left the Bank of America and crossed the street to the Wells Fargo Bank. After waiting a few minutes in line, he handed his note to the Wells Fargo teller. She read it and, surmising from his spelling errors that he wasn't the brightest light in the harbor, told him that she could not accept his stickup note because it was written on a Bank of America deposit slip and that he would either have to fill out a Wells Fargo deposit slip or go back to Bank of America. Looking somewhat defeated, the man said, 'OK' and left. He was arrested a few minutes later, as he was waiting in line back at Bank of America.

Don't bother with this guy's sign. He probably couldn't read it anyway.


Idiot Number Four of 2008:

A motorist was unknowingly caught in an automated speed trap that measured his speed using radar and photographed his car. He later received in the mail a ticket for $40 and a photo of his car. Instead of payment, he sent the police department a photograph of $40. Several days later, he received a letter from the police that contained another picture, this time of handcuffs. He immediately mailed in his $40.

Wise guy.... . ... But you still get a sign


Idiot Number Five of 2008:

A guy walked into a little corner store with a shotgun and demanded all of the cash from the cash drawer. After the cashier put the cash in a bag, the robber saw a bottle of Scotch that he wanted behind the counter on the shelf. He told the cashier to put it in the bag as well, but the cashier refused and said, 'Because I don't believe you are over 21.' The robber said he was, but the clerk still refused to give it to him because she didn't believe him. At this point, the robber took his driver's license out of his wallet and gave it to the clerk. The clerk looked it over and agreed that the man was in fact over 21 and she put the Scotch in the bag. The robber then ran from the store with his loot. The cashier promptly called the police and gave the name and address of the robber that he got off the license. They arrested the robber two hours later.

This guy definitely needs a sign.


Idiot Number Six of 2008:

A pair of Michigan robbers entered a record shop nervously waving revolvers. The first one shouted, 'Nobody move!' When his partner moved, the startled first bandit shot him.

This guy doesn't even deserve a sign.


Idiot Number Seven of 2008 Arkansas :

Seems this guy wanted some beer pretty badly. He decided that he'd just throw a cinder block through a liquor store window, grab some booze, and run. So he lifted the cinder block and heaved it over his head at the window. The cinder block bounced back knocking him unconscious. It seems the liquor store window was made of Plexi-Glass.The whole event was caught on videotape.

Yep, here's your sign.


Idiot Number Eight of 2008:

I live in a semi-rural area. (Weyauwega, Wisconsin). We recently had a new neighbor call the local township administrative office to request the removal of the Deer Crossing sign on our road. The reason: 'Too many deer are being hit by cars out here! - I don't think this is a good place for them to be crossing anymore.'

STAY ALERT! They walk among us... and they REPRODUCE...and they VOTE!!!

Goodbye, Charlie Brown...

This summary is not available. Please click here to view the post.

Can I have one, mom, huh, huh, can I?

Found on the island of Sulawesi in Indonesia after an eight decade absence, these tiny nocturnal insectivores are reminiscent of the gremlins that were seen in the 1984 movie of the same name.

Researchers were hunting for the pygmy tarsiers that weigh 2 oz in order to fit them with tracking collars. An anthropology professor from Texas A&M had her finger bitten by one when she was putting a collar on one of them; they have the ability to turn their heads 180 degrees (move over, Linda Blair).

Although the lil creatures are of the primate family, they have claws instead of fingernails. They are the smallest and rarest primates on the planet and are probably house broken so chances are they wouldn't make that good of a pet. Besides, they don't like bright light and should NEVER EVER eat after midnight.

peace,

paul

weekly post from November 1, 2008

Hello friends & loved ones,

It's been a very weird week weather wise. We actually had some snowflakes in the chilly air this past week and yet today it's sunny and in the high 60's...Welcome to Western, NY weather; one day you could be in short sleeves and shorts and the next in your winter coat.

I've been in an introspective mood this week and I've been thinking a lot about love this past week and how we love certain people but want nothing to do with others. Two people can be exactly the same and yet we love one and can't imagine loving the other (for whatever reason). I've always maintained that I'm shallow when it comes to my first reaction to meeting or seeing someone. Yes, I do look at the physical appearance first and then everything else follows. Of course, what does follows is even more important...truth, morals, kindness, sensitivity, spontaneity, a zest for life, humor, humility, relaxed, strong Christian values and ability to life at the absurdity of life. It's puzzling what draws two people together and even more puzzling why two people who were so hot and heavy for each other can a month later be at each other's throats and claim to "not love the person anymore." I don't believe in the term "falling out of love" because you either love someone or you don't. If you truly love someone, you make it work with that person and stick it out through the good and bad times, no matter what. Unless your life is in danger or the person is just truly a jerk, you work it out and stay together. I have been guilty of not living up to that and have had the other person in my life decide they don't want to make it work. Relationships are difficult and sometimes can be complex but either you love the person or you don't People don't just magically fall out of love, they just stop trying It's still the same person you originally met but people seem to think that you can only love someone if they are who you want them to be instead of who they actually are.

I guess what I'm trying to say is let's have a lot more love and really try to make relationships work and if they're not working, try something different. Whatever it takes with the exception of cheating, lying or killig. If you're in a relationship, really take a long look at the person you're with and ask yourself, "Do I really love this person?" "Do I know what truly loving someone means?" and "Do I have what it takes to make this work, no matter what?" There's enough hate in the world...let's add a lot more love and drown the hate.

Be loving this weekend to everyone you know; even to people you don't know.

Pray for each other as I pray for you.