So, you guys remember that episode of Seinfeld where Elaine dated a guy who absolutely enamored with the song "Desperado" by The Eagles? He'd make everyone stop talking and sit in reverence until it was over. I love that episode, for many reasons, but I especially love the part where Elaine tries to come up with a song that she felt that strongly about. She chose The Eagles' "Witchy Woman," which is an awesome song, but he looked at her like she was crazy for feeling so strongly about this song.
Everyone has these songs, though. Songs that you will always, always stop for on the radio. Songs that you will never ever skip when they come up on your iPod. Songs that get an automatic five-star rating on iTunes, or an automatic thumbs-up when your Pandora stations are brilliant enough to play them. Thus, we begin a new feature here at Daily Word Allotment: highlighting songs that deserve the reverence that Elaine's boyfriend paid to Desperado. (This was just going to be one post, but then I decided it was more fun to break them up, and also easier to reference later if necessary.)
So, our first Desperado song - James Taylor's "Sweet Baby James." You're all surprised that I'm not leading off with a Billy Joel song, aren't you? Well, too bad. This song makes me happy. Every form of it, every lyric of it, the entire melody, and the way that my Pandora stations have all been trained to play every version of it that there is.
I've loved the song for years, but my love was further cemented when Jay Leno had Taylor as a musical guest on his last episode hosting The Tonight Show. Well, the first last episode - had I known then what I know now about that whole fiasco, I would've been a lot less sentimental about it. But I was sure when Leno said Taylor was there, he'd come out and play "You've Got A Friend" or something sappy like that. But he didn't, he played Sweet Baby James, and Leno said he had specifically requested it because it was on the radio a lot the year he moved out to LA and reminded him of that time in his life. So not only did he pick an awesome song, he had a good story about why he liked it. (Too bad he turned out to be a jerk to Conan, which is grounds for immediate and complete shunning in my book.)
I wish I could find a video of him performing it on The Tonight Show for you, but alas, in all the wide reaches of the internets, I have had no luck. So instead, I give you this lovely old live performance to enjoy.
08 April 2011
The Entertainer, Volume 17
Title: Death At A FuneralNotable Actors: Lots of British people. And Alan Tudyk.
Why?: I watched the American version and thought it was OK. A coworker told me I should watch the original, British version, which is far superior.
Thoughts: Said coworker was correct. This was hilarious. I don't know if it's the fact that I like British humor (or should I spell that "humour"?), or if it's that it came first, or what, but it felt so much more natural and less forced in this version. And also, I laughed out loud multiple times. Alone, in my living room. I very rarely laugh out loud at films when I'm watching them alone. I'd recommend it as long as you're not scared of the fact that everyone has British accents. And even then, Alan Tudyk runs around naked. So there's that incentive too :-).
Title: Sex DriveNotable Actors: James Marsden, Seth Green, and Clark Duke are among the more recognizable.
Why?: A coworker recommended it. (A different coworker than the one who recommended Death at a Funeral.)
Thoughts: This was...better than I expected. Definitely some quotable and funny parts, even if the plot is kind of stupid. It fits solidly into the R-rated boy comedy genre, so if you like those types of movies, go for it. I do have a feeling it would get better upon rewatch, so I might give it another try someday when I'm in the mood for that - it was a free streaming movie on Netflix, so it'll be easy to get ahold of.
Title: Sweet Valley ConfidentialAuthor: Francine Pascal
Why?: Because of my great, great love for young adult literature, and also for epilogues.
Thoughts: This was...well, it kind of felt like a giant book full of fan fiction. Random pairings of people, lots of drama that results in a happy ending for everyone, lots of references to characters that barely made an appearance...and I didn't care. I loved it. If you ever read a Sweet Valley book, read this. It will make you happy, flaws and all.
Title: ArthurNotable Actors: Russell Brand, Helen Mirren, Jennifer Garner
Why?: I liked the original. And I worship the ground upon which Helen Mirren walks. And this one was showing at a time that fit well into our schedules.
Thoughts: I hope I'm half as awesome as Helen Mirren when I'm her age. Hell, I hope I'm half as awesome right now. That being said, while she did a great job in this role, the role itself was nothing compared to the original. Actually, that pretty much applies to the whole movie - fine, harmless, definitely funny in parts and Mirren and Russell Brand do a nice job, but it kind of just made me want to watch the original. That, and The Tea Shop Song (as Mary and I call it after an incident with a CD and the Spirit Shoppe) was sadly underused. Bottom line - when you get lost between the moon and New York City, the best that you can do is stick with Dudley Moore and Liza.
Title: I Know I Am, But What Are You?Author: Samantha Bee
Why?: I like Samantha Bee. She's a Daily Show correspondent, for those of you who are not familiar.
Thoughts: Really funny, although some of the stories toward the end of the book dragged a bit. She reminded me more than once of David Sedaris if he discussed more feminine topics. I particularly liked the story about her religion, and also the one in which she discussed learning about sex. I'd highly recommend the book, but at the same time, I didn't like it enough to keep it, so you're on your own for finding a copy ;-)
Title: The Good Wife: The First SeasonNotable Actors: Carol Hathaway, Mr. Big, Logan Huntzberger, Cybill's friend Mary Ann. (I don't care how many awesome things Christine Baranski does. She will always be Mary Ann to me. Except for maybe her exceptional role in Mamma Mia!, which was glorious.)
Why?: Because apparently, it's awesome. I did not know this, and assumed it was your standard cookie cutter legal drama populated by familiar actors.
Thoughts: This is a pretty darn awesome show. Where so many legal dramas become predictable and boring, or worse, contrived and sensationalistic, this one is a lot more intelligent. I'm really annoyed that I can't get the whole second season On Demand or on Netflix yet, because I keep seeing commercials and I want to catch up!
Title: Handle With CareAuthor: Jodi Picoult
Why?: I was trying to diminish The Stack, and I can plow through one of her books in a weekend.
Thoughts: This one's about a kid with a bone disease whose parents sue for wrongful birth. It's just like all the others - really, really melodramatic and fairly predictable. But it's also just like all the others in that it's very difficult to stop reading once you've started. I swear this lady puts crack in her books, they're so addictive. I maintain that if you've read one, you've got a good handle on what's going to happen in all of them. But at the same time, they're enjoyable (if not exactly fun), and highly readable.
30 March 2011
The Entertainer, Volume 16
Title: Love and Other Drugs
Notable Actors: Jake Gyllenhaal, Anne Hathaway, Hank Azaria
Why?: I like Anne Hathaway. And I like drugs. (Not like that.)
Thoughts: I...really enjoyed this. I have very little patience for insipid romantic comedies, and less patience for movies where the womanizing man-whore is won over by some pretty girl who must have some magical powers or whatever. That being said, this one was still pretty endearing. Part of that is my great love for Anne Hathaway, and the fact that the plot was related to the pharmaceutical industry helped. I'd be interested to read the book upon which this one was based, too, because apparently it's more about the drugs and less about the romance.
Title: Fair Game
Notable Actors: Sean Penn, Naomi Watts
Why?: Because I saw a commercial for it and remembered that it existed, and it was at the top of my Netflix queue because it had just come out.
Thoughts: This one is an interesting spy story, based on what happened to Valerie Plame Wilson. Both actors do a good job, although I kind of thought Naomi Watts was a bit too delicate to believe as a CIA agent. The plot is easy enough to follow, and the film's not too long, which means it doesn't have the problems I've encoutered in similar films. Interesting, and the fact that it's true makes it that much more so. I'm going to try to hunt down her book, so stay tuned for a report on that (although if you've seen the size of The Stack in my living room, it may be awhile before I get to it).
Title: Hot Fuzz
Notable Actors: Half of England
Why?: It'd been on my Netflix queue for awhile, but a gentleman friend is a fan of the film and was appalled that I hadn't seen it, so that helped get it seen sooner.
Thoughts: Rather enjoyable, as long as you're a fan of British comedy. The characters were amusing, as was the plot, and while the ending dragged a bit, it was still pretty awesome. Definitely worth watching. (And it's fun to play place-the-British-actor-in-the-British-movie while you watch!)
Title: Vanity Fair's Tales of Hollywood
Author: Lots of people
Why?: I saw it advertised in Vanity Fair a year or two ago, and it finally made its way to the top of my Paperback Swap wishlist.
Thoughts: This is a collection of Vanity Fair articles discussing specific films between the early 1940s and mid 1980s. They hit some of my favorites (The Graduate, specifically), as well as a few that I'd not seen but will be adding to my Netflix queue (The Magnificent Ambersons and The Sweet Smell of Success). Definitely an interesting book if you're a movie nerd like me, although I have a sneaking suspicion that you could find most of the articles archived online somewhere.
Notable Actors: Jake Gyllenhaal, Anne Hathaway, Hank Azaria
Why?: I like Anne Hathaway. And I like drugs. (Not like that.)
Thoughts: I...really enjoyed this. I have very little patience for insipid romantic comedies, and less patience for movies where the womanizing man-whore is won over by some pretty girl who must have some magical powers or whatever. That being said, this one was still pretty endearing. Part of that is my great love for Anne Hathaway, and the fact that the plot was related to the pharmaceutical industry helped. I'd be interested to read the book upon which this one was based, too, because apparently it's more about the drugs and less about the romance.
Title: Fair Game
Notable Actors: Sean Penn, Naomi Watts
Why?: Because I saw a commercial for it and remembered that it existed, and it was at the top of my Netflix queue because it had just come out.
Thoughts: This one is an interesting spy story, based on what happened to Valerie Plame Wilson. Both actors do a good job, although I kind of thought Naomi Watts was a bit too delicate to believe as a CIA agent. The plot is easy enough to follow, and the film's not too long, which means it doesn't have the problems I've encoutered in similar films. Interesting, and the fact that it's true makes it that much more so. I'm going to try to hunt down her book, so stay tuned for a report on that (although if you've seen the size of The Stack in my living room, it may be awhile before I get to it).
Title: Hot Fuzz
Notable Actors: Half of England
Why?: It'd been on my Netflix queue for awhile, but a gentleman friend is a fan of the film and was appalled that I hadn't seen it, so that helped get it seen sooner.
Thoughts: Rather enjoyable, as long as you're a fan of British comedy. The characters were amusing, as was the plot, and while the ending dragged a bit, it was still pretty awesome. Definitely worth watching. (And it's fun to play place-the-British-actor-in-the-British-movie while you watch!)
Title: Due Date
Notable Actors: Robert Downey Jr., Zach Galifianakis
Why?: Because Downey and Galifianakis are awesome.
Thoughts: Pretty awesome...not the best I've seen from either, but definitely a good representation of the genre. I wouldn't recommend it if you're not a fan of the R-rated male-focused comedy, but if you are, this one's worth it. Definitely funny, and while ridiculous at times, it doesn't stray too far from the plot or become too stupid. At least, in my opinion...like I said, if you're not into the genre, you may disagree. (That being said, every time I watch Downey in a comedy, it just makes me want to watch Tropic Thunder again. I maintain that if Heath Ledger hadn't died, that Oscar race that year would've been a lot closer.)
Notable Actors: Robert Downey Jr., Zach Galifianakis
Why?: Because Downey and Galifianakis are awesome.
Thoughts: Pretty awesome...not the best I've seen from either, but definitely a good representation of the genre. I wouldn't recommend it if you're not a fan of the R-rated male-focused comedy, but if you are, this one's worth it. Definitely funny, and while ridiculous at times, it doesn't stray too far from the plot or become too stupid. At least, in my opinion...like I said, if you're not into the genre, you may disagree. (That being said, every time I watch Downey in a comedy, it just makes me want to watch Tropic Thunder again. I maintain that if Heath Ledger hadn't died, that Oscar race that year would've been a lot closer.)
Title: To Be Or Not To Be
Notable Actors: Mel Brooks, Anne Bancroft
Why?: Because Mel Brooks = awesome. We were discussing our favorite Mel Brooks films the other day at work, and a coworker mentioned this one and I'd never seen it and felt like a failure.
Title: Vanity Fair's Tales of Hollywood
Author: Lots of people
Why?: I saw it advertised in Vanity Fair a year or two ago, and it finally made its way to the top of my Paperback Swap wishlist.
Thoughts: This is a collection of Vanity Fair articles discussing specific films between the early 1940s and mid 1980s. They hit some of my favorites (The Graduate, specifically), as well as a few that I'd not seen but will be adding to my Netflix queue (The Magnificent Ambersons and The Sweet Smell of Success). Definitely an interesting book if you're a movie nerd like me, although I have a sneaking suspicion that you could find most of the articles archived online somewhere.
22 March 2011
The Entertainer, Volume 15
Title: Water for Elephants
Author: Sara Gruen
Why?: Because I saw the trailer for the upcoming movie and wanted to read the book first. The fact that the movie comes out soon, and that numerous friends have read and enjoyed it, moved this book to the top of The Stack.
Thoughts: I blew through this thing in under three hours. To be fair, I was on an airplane for the vast majority of it, so it had my undivided attention. But I didn't even drink, and for a book to distract me from airplane drinking, it must be good! Then, of course, I finished it before my flight was over, and all of my other books were in my checked luggage, so I turned into that chick who's watching stupid movies on her laptop and drinking airplane wine.
But I digress. This book was delightful - just indepth enough, and a story just engaging enough, to drive you through it quickly but not so much that it's forgettable. Don't worry if you think circuses are creepy - I do, and yet, I loved this book. I'd recommend it. And stay tuned for my movie review at the end of April.
Title: Winter's Bone
Notable Actors: No one, really, except maybe Jennifer Lawrence, who got an Oscar nomination
Why?: A coworker had told me it was good, so it was already on my Netflix queue when it got its Best Picture nomination. The nomination is what moved it to the top (although I did fall short on my goal of seeing all ten before the awards. But I knew neither True Grit nor James Franco Cuts Off His Arm had a prayer of winning, so I wasn't really stressing about it either).
Thoughts: Coworker was correct - it was definitely good, and Lawrence's performance is laudable. I found the characterization and cinematography to be very accurate and effective, at least from the perspective of this girl who's never set foot in the Ozarks. That being said, it was extremely depressing, although I do suppose it has a happy ending. I'd highly recommend it, but be prepared.
Title: Cedar RapidsNotable Actors: Ed Helms, my beloved John C. Reilly
Why?: John C. Reilly. Whyever not?
Thoughts: This one? Pretty good. I'll have to rewatch to determine just how quotable it is, but after one viewing, I approve. It didn't have as much of the zaniness that, say, The Hangover had, but the characters were decently developed and the plot fairly self-contained. I'd recommend it.
Title: Big Love: Season Five
Notable Actors: Bill Paxton, Jeanne Tripplehorn, Chloe Sevigny, Ginnifer Goodwin
Why?: Because it takes a lot for me to break up with a show once I'm this far in, even if it did annoy me as much as the fourth season of this one did.
Thoughts: It just kept right on going with the annoying...going into the series finale, I could count on one hand how many characters were left who I didn't want to punch in the face. That being said, I really enjoyed that final episode. There were a number of nostalgic and/or poingnant moments, and while it didn't redeem most of the characters, it did remind me why I didn't always want to punch them. And then the last two scenes wrapped everything up really nicely. And that is all I will say about that because I don't want to ruin it for everyone. Just don't break up with it when it gets bad unless you, at the very least, skip ahead to the finale.
Title: Dinner for SchmucksNotable Actors: Paul Rudd and Steve Carell, both of whom are so, so much better than this swill and who I hope got paid very handsomely.
Why?: Honestly, I don't even know. I might've been blinded by my love of Paul Rudd.
Thoughts: I watched half of this on a Wednesday, and it sat in my DVD player unfinished until I got home from Happy Hour on Friday. You would think the residual alcohol would help me enjoy the last half. You would be wrong. This was just...stupid. And not in a good way. Just look at Carell's expression on that poster and you'll see what I mean. Oh, and Paul Rudd's expression is pretty much how I feel. That being said, I've heard the French film upon which this was based is excellent. Stay tuned to see if I ever wind up watching it.
09 March 2011
That's What She Said, Installment 6
This isn't a That's What She Said so much as it is just an unfortunate arrangement, but either way, this is not suitable for the children's decor aisle at Target. They might just have some baby stuffed turtles running around soon...
Would You Like To Take A Survey?
As you all probably know, I like to read other people's blogs. A lot of these are written by strangers, so I don't comment and don't follow them publicly or list them in that pretty sidebar over there called "My Friends' Blogs". Everyone listed there is someone I know personally, ranging from my brother who never updates, to one of my oldest family friends whose blog about living in Italy makes me jealous every time I read it, to about a million different friends from college. (And if you have a blog and don't see it listed, tell me and I'll add it!)
Anyway, one of those blogs belongs to Ali, a classmate of mine from Hood. Her roommate was Tricia's little sis, and they both lived in the same dorm I did. Ali writes a spectacular blog about healthy eating. As you all know, I am a big giant carnivore, but if ever there was something to make me want to eat vegetables, it would be Ali's blog. Today, she had a fun survey posted in addition to talking about food. And now, I am stealing said survey, because surveys are fun and I have decided that I need to post more than just a million installments of The Entertainer. That, and this allows me to quote a movie and talk about zoo animals. So, here we go.
A. Age: 29
B. Bed size: Queen, although the full-sized one in the guest room is more comfortable
C. Chore you dislike: Most of them. I really hate dusting, as evidenced by the condition of the bookshelves in my living room. And, strangely, I really like doing dishes as long as no one tries to help me.
D. Dogs: Holly Bug. Who is mine even if she does live with my parents. And I want one to live with me.
E. Essential start to your day: Diet Coke. Breakfast of champions. I can also make a case for hot tea, because that's what I am - a hotty.
F. Favorite color: Green. Preferably hunter or kelly.
G. Gold or silver: Yellow gold. But silver jewelry's cheaper, so I wear a fair amount of that too. But my Hood ring is yellow gold, and it wins.
H. Height: 5'8". Which can go up to 6 feet depending upon which shoes I choose.
I. Instruments you play(ed): Cello, for five years voluntarily and two more involuntarily.
J. Job title: Regulatory Associate III. And according to my resume, also Aquatics Specialist, which is what Don let me call myself back when it was just him and me running the pool. I never updated it after I stopped doing everything except teaching.
K. Kids: Nope. I have a million of 'em at the pool, though.
L. Live: Frederick.
M. Mom’s name: Terri. Or Therese if you want to be fancy. But not Theresa. Unless you want to make her mad and get a lecture about St. Therese.
N. Nicknames: Le. Pronounced with a long E. Also LeahGia. And the wretched little beasts at the pool where I guarded in high school called me LeahTard, which was actually pretty clever, although I never would've told them that.
O. Overnight hospital stays: None.
P. Pet peeves: People who get in my way - especially at airports, on the highway, or in the aisles at Target - and then aren't considerate enough to realize and get out of my way. People who use improper grammar and/or spelling.
Q. Quote from a movie: “If you can’t laugh at yourself, life is going to seem a lot longer than you’d like,” from Natalie Portman’s character in Garden State. And I'm cheating and including my absolute favorite quote of all time, from my beloved Elaine Benes in Seinfeld: "Here's to those who wish us well, and those who don't can go to Hell." A good motto for all.
R. Righty or lefty: Left-handed people are the best handed people. Although I hate the words "righty" and "lefty."
S. Siblings: David, the aforementioned brother who never updates his blog. (Apologies for the sideways video.)
T. Time you wake up: 6:30.
U. Underwear: Victoria's Secret. And that's all I'm telling you.
V. Vegetables you don’t like: Bell peppers. I loathe bell peppers. And also celery, which is the stalk of the devil. Other than that, I'm not picky about them. Roasted cauliflower is one of my favorite things in the world.
W. What makes you run late: When Charlie Sheen's spewing crazy all over the Today Show and I want to watch but I have to go to work.
X. X-rays you’ve had: Teeth. And I think I've had a chest x-ray before.
Y. Yummy food you make: See above about the roasted cauliflower. Also, cupcakes. Many, many cupcakes. (I also hate the word "yummy," for what it's worth, but it fits with this letter, so it shall stay.)
Z. Zoo animal favorites: Prairie dogs. And otters, if they're swimming around and not just laying there tanning like The Situation.
Anyway, one of those blogs belongs to Ali, a classmate of mine from Hood. Her roommate was Tricia's little sis, and they both lived in the same dorm I did. Ali writes a spectacular blog about healthy eating. As you all know, I am a big giant carnivore, but if ever there was something to make me want to eat vegetables, it would be Ali's blog. Today, she had a fun survey posted in addition to talking about food. And now, I am stealing said survey, because surveys are fun and I have decided that I need to post more than just a million installments of The Entertainer. That, and this allows me to quote a movie and talk about zoo animals. So, here we go.
A. Age: 29
B. Bed size: Queen, although the full-sized one in the guest room is more comfortable
C. Chore you dislike: Most of them. I really hate dusting, as evidenced by the condition of the bookshelves in my living room. And, strangely, I really like doing dishes as long as no one tries to help me.
D. Dogs: Holly Bug. Who is mine even if she does live with my parents. And I want one to live with me.
E. Essential start to your day: Diet Coke. Breakfast of champions. I can also make a case for hot tea, because that's what I am - a hotty.
F. Favorite color: Green. Preferably hunter or kelly.
G. Gold or silver: Yellow gold. But silver jewelry's cheaper, so I wear a fair amount of that too. But my Hood ring is yellow gold, and it wins.
H. Height: 5'8". Which can go up to 6 feet depending upon which shoes I choose.
I. Instruments you play(ed): Cello, for five years voluntarily and two more involuntarily.
J. Job title: Regulatory Associate III. And according to my resume, also Aquatics Specialist, which is what Don let me call myself back when it was just him and me running the pool. I never updated it after I stopped doing everything except teaching.
K. Kids: Nope. I have a million of 'em at the pool, though.
L. Live: Frederick.
M. Mom’s name: Terri. Or Therese if you want to be fancy. But not Theresa. Unless you want to make her mad and get a lecture about St. Therese.
O. Overnight hospital stays: None.
P. Pet peeves: People who get in my way - especially at airports, on the highway, or in the aisles at Target - and then aren't considerate enough to realize and get out of my way. People who use improper grammar and/or spelling.
Q. Quote from a movie: “If you can’t laugh at yourself, life is going to seem a lot longer than you’d like,” from Natalie Portman’s character in Garden State. And I'm cheating and including my absolute favorite quote of all time, from my beloved Elaine Benes in Seinfeld: "Here's to those who wish us well, and those who don't can go to Hell." A good motto for all.
R. Righty or lefty: Left-handed people are the best handed people. Although I hate the words "righty" and "lefty."
S. Siblings: David, the aforementioned brother who never updates his blog. (Apologies for the sideways video.)
T. Time you wake up: 6:30.
U. Underwear: Victoria's Secret. And that's all I'm telling you.
V. Vegetables you don’t like: Bell peppers. I loathe bell peppers. And also celery, which is the stalk of the devil. Other than that, I'm not picky about them. Roasted cauliflower is one of my favorite things in the world.
W. What makes you run late: When Charlie Sheen's spewing crazy all over the Today Show and I want to watch but I have to go to work.
X. X-rays you’ve had: Teeth. And I think I've had a chest x-ray before.
Y. Yummy food you make: See above about the roasted cauliflower. Also, cupcakes. Many, many cupcakes. (I also hate the word "yummy," for what it's worth, but it fits with this letter, so it shall stay.)
Z. Zoo animal favorites: Prairie dogs. And otters, if they're swimming around and not just laying there tanning like The Situation.
So, there you go. And, fun for you! Steal the list and play with yourself! (That's what she said.) And, stealing from Ali's idea again - if you're bored but not so bored to do the whole survey, just post here with your favorite movie quote, because that will make me happy :-).
04 March 2011
The Entertainer, Volume 14
Title: Never Let Me Go
Notable Actors: Carey Mulligan, Keira Knightly, Andrew Garfield, a Weasley (which I correctly predicted as such based upon the fact that he is British and has red hair)
Why?: Because I read the book and loved it.
Thoughts: Creepy little story. But ultimately so sad. An excellent representation of the book, if you've read it and are worried about that. Actually, seeing the movie made me kind of like the book more - it was easier to picture everyone, and the plot was closely matched enough that it wasn't troublesome. And also, you guys, I'm kind of in love with Andrew Garfield now. Lots of people were surprised that he didn't get an Oscar nomination for his performance in The Social Network, but now, I'm more surprised that he didn't get any recognition for this - he was heartbreaking. And he used his real accent, so that gives him a bonus point in my book ;-).
Notable Actors: Carey Mulligan, Keira Knightly, Andrew Garfield, a Weasley (which I correctly predicted as such based upon the fact that he is British and has red hair)
Why?: Because I read the book and loved it.
Thoughts: Creepy little story. But ultimately so sad. An excellent representation of the book, if you've read it and are worried about that. Actually, seeing the movie made me kind of like the book more - it was easier to picture everyone, and the plot was closely matched enough that it wasn't troublesome. And also, you guys, I'm kind of in love with Andrew Garfield now. Lots of people were surprised that he didn't get an Oscar nomination for his performance in The Social Network, but now, I'm more surprised that he didn't get any recognition for this - he was heartbreaking. And he used his real accent, so that gives him a bonus point in my book ;-).
Title: Big Love: The Complete Fourth SeasonNotable Actors: Bill Paxton, Jeanne Tripplehorn, Chloe Sevigny, Ginnifer Goodwin
Why?: Because I watched the first three seasons, and I'm not about to break up with it now.
Thoughts: Wow...I was exceedingly annoyed with so, so much about this season. Ana. Margene and Ben (and I usually love Margene). JJ. And that stupid Senate plot. I'll keep watching, because I can't really call things bad until I see where the writers are going, but my expectations for the fifth and final season are not high. Oh, and the new opening sequence sucks. I miss The Beach Boys. (This all being said, the first three seasons are great; I'd highly recommend them.)
Title: The Late Shift: Letterman, Leno, and the Network Battle for Late NightAuthor: Bill Carter
Why?: Because TV fascinates me. And because I want to read Carter's book about the Conan/Leno battle, and this one had some valuable background information. And also, because I was twelve years old when this all went down and didn't have the internet to keep me informed.
Thoughts: I love TV gossip. Love. This whole Charlie Sheen thing is like crack to me, and not just the crazy, but also the whole feud and how it's affecting the show. And this is the same thing, minus a good bit of the crazy. The book was well-paced, with a ton of detail without seeming tedious. I can't wait to start the one about Conan. Despite the fact that there's a monstrous stack of books in my living room, waiting to be read, I went out and bought it yesterday and there is a very good chance that it's going to be my airplane book for this weekend :-).
Title: It's Kind Of A Funny StoryNotable Actors: Zach Galifianakis, Keir Gilchrist, Lauren Graham (who doesn't do that much but I love her so she's getting mentioned.)
Why?: Because I saw the trailer last year and wanted to see it, and it came out last week and I timed it correctly in returning a Netflix DVD so I got it right away.
Thoughts: I really liked this one - didn't love it, but liked it. It wasn't as quirky/indie as I thought it would based upon how animated the trailer was, but I'm OK with that. It was a nice story, if predictable, and all of the actors did a good job. I'd recommend it, as long as you're not expecting Galifinakis to act like he did in The Hangover
Title: Youth in RevoltNotable Actors: Michael Cera, and also briefly Justin Long and Zach Galifianakis. I think my Netflix queue was on a Galifinakis kick.
Why?: Because a coworker recommended it.
Thoughts: This one pretty much comes down to your feelings for Michael Cera. If you like him, you will like this film. If you hate him, you will hate this film. If you're ambivalent, I think there's a decent chance you'll still like this one. It's not my favorite of his films, but I definitely watched the whole thing and enjoyed it. He did a nice job with role.
01 March 2011
Let's Make A Deal!
So, you guys remember Let's Make A Deal? Specifically when Monty Hall would go into the audience and ask people for a specific item, and if they could furnish it from the depth of their pockets or purses, they'd win a prize? And it was usually some random item, like a lug wrench, or a stuffed chicken, or a dog leash. Well, I've been carrying the same bag for a couple of weeks now, and you all who know me know that is a long time. When I carry a bag for this long, especially one as big as this one, it tends to get a bit...full. Half of the reason I switch bags so often is to clean them out, and it's getting to be high time to do so with this one.
That being said, I feel like I'm all ready for Monty to approach me in the audience. I've got quite the menagerie going here:
-A half-empty box of Target-brand Sudafed
-A sparkly purple wallet
-Two bills that should've been mailed last Friday but got shoved to the bottom of the bag and forgotten about
-A pair of swim goggles
-Three books of checks
-An entire second purse, which I still haven't unloaded from a ski trip last weekend (and which contains its own collection of crap)
-Five tubes of chapstick/lip gloss, including one that lights up
-A pack of Airborne
-A GPS
-An iPod and two sets of earbuds
-Two gift cards and the cards they came in, as gifted by a couple of swim lesson kids
-Two packs of Kleenex
-About fifteen ponytail holders
-A bottle of hand lotion (which is supposed to smell like Stress Relief, according to Bath and Body Works)
-Three doses of DayQuil (the packages of which have pointy corners which poked me when I was digging through the bag)
-More tampons than I would ever use in one month
-At least three shopping lists, some crumpled and out of date
-Coupons
-A hairclip
-A camera
-Red Velvet Cupcake-scented hand sanitizer (which also has glitter in it. I forgot this fact when I let a coworker borrow it last week. A male coworker. It was a good day ;-)
-A shit ton of frequent flyer punch cards for area restaurants
-An energy drink
-Two packs of gum (one of which is bacon flavored)
-The jewelry I wore yesterday, which I took off when I got to the pool last night
-My car keys
And that's probably not even everything...I just pawed through the top few layers so you could get the idea. I really need to downsize again...I'm getting way too used to having this much room. But how could I choose between all of these things?!
That being said, I feel like I'm all ready for Monty to approach me in the audience. I've got quite the menagerie going here:-A half-empty box of Target-brand Sudafed
-A sparkly purple wallet
-Two bills that should've been mailed last Friday but got shoved to the bottom of the bag and forgotten about
-A pair of swim goggles
-Three books of checks
-An entire second purse, which I still haven't unloaded from a ski trip last weekend (and which contains its own collection of crap)
-Five tubes of chapstick/lip gloss, including one that lights up
-A pack of Airborne
-A GPS
-An iPod and two sets of earbuds
-Two gift cards and the cards they came in, as gifted by a couple of swim lesson kids
-Two packs of Kleenex
-About fifteen ponytail holders
-A bottle of hand lotion (which is supposed to smell like Stress Relief, according to Bath and Body Works)
-Three doses of DayQuil (the packages of which have pointy corners which poked me when I was digging through the bag)
-More tampons than I would ever use in one month
-At least three shopping lists, some crumpled and out of date
-Coupons
-A hairclip
-A camera
-Red Velvet Cupcake-scented hand sanitizer (which also has glitter in it. I forgot this fact when I let a coworker borrow it last week. A male coworker. It was a good day ;-)
-A shit ton of frequent flyer punch cards for area restaurants
-An energy drink
-Two packs of gum (one of which is bacon flavored)
-The jewelry I wore yesterday, which I took off when I got to the pool last night
-My car keys
And that's probably not even everything...I just pawed through the top few layers so you could get the idea. I really need to downsize again...I'm getting way too used to having this much room. But how could I choose between all of these things?!
20 February 2011
The Entertainer, Volume 13
Title: Justin Bieber: Never Say NeverNotable Actors: Justin Bieber, his hot manager
Why?: Because my friends from work were going, and I figured that, given my affection for such groups as the Jonas Brothers, I might like it.
Thoughts: This movie was kind of awesome. I really like musical biography movies, and even though this one is more a documentary than a biopic, it's similar enough that I still enjoyed it. The kid really is talented, too, whether or not you care for his music. And, as a nice surprise, we all learned that he has a hot manager! If anyone would like, I now own plenty of Bieber music...I'd be happy to share it with you!
Title: The United States of Tara, The Second SeasonNotable Actors: Toni Collette, John Corbett (heh. That kind of rhymes.)
Why?: Because I watched the first season and liked it.
Thoughts: This one was a bit less focused than the first season, I thought. Don't get me wrong, it was still really good, and the performances great, but I felt like I kept losing sight of where it was going. That, and I wasn't thrilled with the Charmaine storyline (which, you'll have to see to know what I'm talking about). That being said, I'd still recommend the show - you can't go wrong with any of the Showtime half hour comedies.
Title: Step Up 3Notable Actors: A bunch of dancers who were in the first one
Why?: Because I watched Step Up 2 with Niki when I was in California last fall and I liked it
Thoughts: This one was...not as good as Step Up 2. I really liked that one. That being said, I still liked this one a great deal too. It's pretty much what you'd expect - the standard dance-rivalry story - but the dancing was good, and the characters not too irritating. If you've seen and liked the others, I'd recommend it; otherwise, I'd say start with Step Up 2. (Also, apparently this was in 3D if you saw it in the theaters. I'd imagine the dancing would translate very well to such a medium; however, I saw it on my TV in my living room, so I can't really testify to that fact.)
Why?: Because I watched Step Up 2 with Niki when I was in California last fall and I liked it
Thoughts: This one was...not as good as Step Up 2. I really liked that one. That being said, I still liked this one a great deal too. It's pretty much what you'd expect - the standard dance-rivalry story - but the dancing was good, and the characters not too irritating. If you've seen and liked the others, I'd recommend it; otherwise, I'd say start with Step Up 2. (Also, apparently this was in 3D if you saw it in the theaters. I'd imagine the dancing would translate very well to such a medium; however, I saw it on my TV in my living room, so I can't really testify to that fact.)
Title: Simple Times: Crafts for Poor PeopleAuthor: The stupendous Amy Sedaris
Why?: Because Amy Sedaris is awesome.
Thoughts: Hilarious. Particular favorite chapters include "Crafting for Jesus," "Handicraftables," and "Teenagers Have a Lot of Pain." Her love of crafting never ceases to entertain me, and her writing style is even more hilarious when you imagine her saying the words. That, and any crafts that rely heavily on pipe cleaners and plastic googly eyes are OK in my book.
Title: Nickel and Dimed: On Getting By In AmericaAuthor: Barbara Ehrenreich
Why?: Because I read about it in a slate.com article, and I thought it looked interesting, and there was no wait on Paperback Swap to get a copy
Thoughts: An interesting look at an educated woman who attempts to live on minimum wage by working various jobs, including waitressing, housekeeping, and working at WalMart. The analysis section was a bit more economically indepth than I cared about, but at the same time, it presented the information well enough that even I could understand it. A fairly quick read, too, with some interesting stories.
Title: Cactus FlowerNotable Actors: Walter Matthau, Ingrid Bergman, Goldie Hawn (for which she won an Oscar)
Why?: I'd been meaning to watch it because I like 60s comedies. Somehow it made it to the top of my Netflix queue.
Thoughts: This was cute, if pretty much exactly what you'd expect from the genre. I enjoyed it, although I didn't think any of the performances were exceptional. How Hawn won an Oscar for playing what appears to essentially be herself is beyond me. Don't get me wrong, she and the others were all quite enjoyable...I just don't think anyone was that laudable. (That being said, I've only seen one of the other nominated performances in her category, so I don't know that I can really judge accurately.)
Title: Waiting for SupermanNotable Actors: Well, it's a documentary, so a bunch of real people.
Why?: Because I have far too many friends who are teachers to not watch it.
Thoughts: Ladies and gentlemen, I give you the input of someone far more qualified to comment on the subject matter: my dear friend Unnamed Person With A Background In Education. Person says, "It applies to inner city areas. If I were a parent in an inner city, this message would aboslutely apply, but it applies much less so in suburbia. Where it simplifies too much is with some of the charter schools, and how you have to apply to get in, which weeds through the people in a way that public schools can't. Which then leaves behind less motivated kids in public schools. It still comes back to the parents and the community are motivating the kids. And it's glaringly obvious how bad the test scores are now, but what it doesn't pay lip service to is that many politicians talk about fixing it, but just create more bureacracy that doesn't necessarily help. I don't like that they made the union the bad guy, although I do agree that tenure happens too easily. Overall, it was fairly superficial, yet had its good points with regard to enlightening people to the presence of the problem."
26 January 2011
The Entertainer, Volume 12
Title: Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk
Author: David Sedaris
Why?: Because David Sedaris is awesome.
Thoughts: Not my favorite of his books, but at the same time, it was different from most of them, so I don't know if a comparison is fair. The stories were shorter, and more like fables...fables with a very dark comedic twist. I'd recommend it if you are a fan of his work, but if not, or if this would be your first of his books, try a different one instead.
Notable Actors: John Candy, my beloved Steve Martin
Why?: Because I love Steve Martin. And this kept showing up in holiday movie lists in November, and I realized I had never seen it.
Thoughts: A classic 80s comedy, a classic holiday comedy, a classic everything. A few of the things are a bit dated - pay phones, not being sure if you have a credit card (or better, carrying a Diner's Club card), etc. But that doesn't change the fact that it's a lot of fun, and that it deserves to be put on all of the "Best Thanksgiving Movie" lists that it's on.
Title: Red
Notable Actors: Bruce Willis, Morgan Freeman, Helen Mirren, Mary-Louise Parker
Why?: Because it got nominated for a Golden Globe. And because it either looked like it would be good, or laughably bad.
Thoughts: Verdict = good. Not nearly as much of a retirement farm movie as I had feared (in which studios trot out old actors and make them do stupid and/or contrived roles in order to make money). Mary-Louise Parker was a very welcome addition...she makes anything she's in better. Funny in parts, and the action moved enough that it didn't drag. I'm glad I didn't pay to see it in the theater, but it's well worth the addition to any Netflix queue.
Title: Animal Kingdom
Notable Actors: A bunch of Australian people who you probably haven't heard of, but should.
Why?: One of the actresses was nominated for an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress. And, it got a 97% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Thoughts: See, you guys? This. This is why I try to watch as many Oscar-nominated movies as I can. Because without that, I never would've found this one, and it was awesome. Jacki Weaver's character actually reminded me a bit of Angela Lansbury in The Manchurian Candidate, and if you know me, you know that is high praise. You should definitely add this one to your Netflix queue.
Title: Toddlers and Tiaras, Season One
Notable Actors: A bunch of little kids and nutjob parents
Why?: Because it's like a train wreck...you can't look away.
Thoughts: I am kind of a little bit in love with this show. And it's everywhere, too - I thought it was just crazy southern people, but then they showed a pageant in Pittsburgh and also one in New York. Also, it meshes well with the Real Housewives franchise...if you're a fan of those, you should definitely hunt this one down :-).
Title: You Again
Notable Actors: Jamie Lee Curtis, Sigourney Weaver, Kristen Bell, Kristin Chenoweth, Betty White, Victor Garber, and the chick who is married to the guy who plays Justin in Brothers and Sisters.
Why?: Because I like Veronica Mars. And Kristin Chenoweth. And I liked Betty White before it was trendy.
Thoughts: This was exactly what you'd expect out of a romantic comedy, but on the good side of it. Funny, albeit over the top at times, and with a good cast. These actors save the plot from itself.
23 January 2011
The Entertainer, Volume 11
Title: Charlie St. Cloud
Notable Actors: Zac Efron, Jessica AlBiel
Why?: Because I have an age-inappropriate crush on Zac Efron
Thoughts: You guys know the story of how Sarah and I laughed all through The Notebook and the crying ladies around us were glaring at us? That was what it would've been like if I'd seen this one in the theater. Melodramatic, overacted, trying to be romantic and just coming off as creepy and cheesy...that was this one. Actually, that movie poster pretty much sums it up - comically bad. That being said, Zac Efron? Pretty. So pretty. And if that makes me a dirty old lady, then so be it.
Title: The King's Speech
Notable Actors: Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush, Bellatrix LaStrange, Wormtail, Dumbledore the Second, and a bunch of super cute corgis
Why?: See: Colin Firth
Thoughts: I absolutely loved it - the story was just the right depth, balanced by brevity and of course spectacular acting. I will say this, though, at the risk of sounding like an idiot - it is disturbing when big-name British actors who have been in Harry Potter films do other, more serious things. It's freaky enough when it's good guys like Dumbledore, or people who have been in lots of other things to balance the bad guy she plays, like Helena Bonham-Carter. But whoever cast Wormtail as Churchill must've been high. Even if I didn't spend half the movie expecting him to turn into a rat, I still didn't quite think the actor was the right fit for the role. (But do not let this discourage you - this charming film is one of my favorites of the year.)
Title: Howl
Notable Actors: A bunch of cool kids - James Franco, Mary-Louise Parker, Bob Balaban, Treat Williams, David Strathairn, and my boyfriend Jon Hamm, among others
Why?: See the list of actors
Thoughts: I think I liked this one...I definitely liked the courtroom scenes, when they were trying to decide if Ginsberg's work was obscene. And the scenes with Franco as Ginsberg. And I respect what they were trying to do, interspersing the poetry reading and graphics with the more grounded biographical and courtroom storylines. But yeah...I don't like poetry. Try as I might, it bores and annoys me. And every time they diverted from the storylines to the poetry, I lost interest. That being said, I still think I liked it. Except for the poetry.
Title: The Town
Notable Actors: Ben Affleck, that guy from The Hurt Locker, once again my boyfriend Jon Hamm
Why?: A coworker recommended it. And again, Jon Hamm.
Thoughts: I liked this way more than I thought I was going to. I mean, I thought I'd like it, but I really liked it. An interesting twist on your standard action/bank robber-type film. And the Affleck doesn't hurt. Also, I seem to have developed a strange affection for movies set in Boston suburbs.
Title: Cyrus
Notable Actors: John C. Reilly, Catherine Keener, Marisa Tomei, Jonah Hill
Why?: Because I like John C. Reilly. A lot.
Thoughts: I thought this one would be funnier. I mean, I knew it wasn't your standard John C. Reilly/Will Ferrell type comedy, but the reviews all called it a black comedy, and it really...wasn't that funny. Interesting, if strange at times, and difficult to figure out some of the characterization. I'm feeling rather mediocre about this one...when Netflix asks how I like it, I'm going to give it three stars out of five.
Title: Dead and Gone
Author: Charlaine Harris
Why?: Because I read all the others, and this one is next.
Thoughts: This one was just like all the other ones. Not that that's a bad thing - it moved the plot forward, and you learn more about the fairies, which was interesting and exciting. And that's all I say, for fear of ruining the plot for future readers. Just know that you should read this series and watch True Blood.
Title: How To Train Your Dragon
Notable Actors: Jay Baruchel, Jonah Hill, some other famous voices
Why?: I like dragons.
Thoughts: I really shouldn't have watched this film...I want a pet dragon of my very own now. This movie was very cute - I have no complaints. It's no Toy Story 3, but I'd classify this one as one you can take your kids to without wanting to stick things in your eye halfway through. And again, I like dragons. And Jay Baruchel.
Title: Country StrongWhy?: Certainly not because I like country music. But I do like movies about music. And big hair.
Thoughts: This was...eh. It wasn't awful, and the actors all did a good job, especially Paltrow. But the plot and character development were lacking in certain ways. Also, it was quite a depressing little film, although that kind of helped save it rather than hurt it. I'd tentatively recommend it, as long as you don't go into it expecting a cinematic masterpiece.
20 January 2011
Not Your Cheese
I had a frozen thing for lunch today. I mean, it wasn't frozen after I put it in the microwave, but it was when I bought it at the store. As I usually do when I eat one of these delicacies for lunch, I went to the snack machine in the hallway to get a bag of chips. If you know me, you know I love me some Doritos.
So, I go to the machine with my dollar. Yes, a bag of chips costs a dollar in our new machine. Which is a rip off, but also better than going out in the cold to go buy a bag at the store. And it's not like I could buy a big bag assuming it would last longer. While it is much more cost-effective, I will eat the entire freaking thing in less than an hour because I have the self control of a wombat* and the appetite of a velociraptor.
Anyway, I go to buy my Nacho Cheese Doritos. All is fine and dandy - unlike our old machine, this one rarely tries to keep your chips by getting them stuck on its innards, and for that, we usually get along well. The chips drop to the bottom, I retrieve them happily, and am about to go back to my desk to feast when I see the following:
Cool Ranch Doritos! And it's not that I didn't notice them in a different spot - they were lurking behind the Nacho Cheese ones where I couldn't see them. What the eff, Vending Machine Stocker Guy - who in their right mind puts a DIFFERENT flavor behind the other flavor? What if I wanted those instead? And, I did! If I had known they were there, I would've pestered coworkers until they went and bought the Nacho Cheese Doritos and got them out of my damn way, and I would've had those lovely Cool Ranch ones. Not that Nacho Cheese aren't great - they are one of the world's most perfect foods - but I wanted Cool Ranch. Damn you, Vending Machine Man! (And don't tell me I should've bought both - read above to see what happens when I am around large amounts of Doritos. It's much better for everyone if there is a definitive amount that I have access to.)
Arrgh. I swear, lunch = ruined. All because of the Vending Machine Man's trickery.
*Wombats have very little self control. In case you were wondering.
So, I go to the machine with my dollar. Yes, a bag of chips costs a dollar in our new machine. Which is a rip off, but also better than going out in the cold to go buy a bag at the store. And it's not like I could buy a big bag assuming it would last longer. While it is much more cost-effective, I will eat the entire freaking thing in less than an hour because I have the self control of a wombat* and the appetite of a velociraptor.
Anyway, I go to buy my Nacho Cheese Doritos. All is fine and dandy - unlike our old machine, this one rarely tries to keep your chips by getting them stuck on its innards, and for that, we usually get along well. The chips drop to the bottom, I retrieve them happily, and am about to go back to my desk to feast when I see the following:
Cool Ranch Doritos! And it's not that I didn't notice them in a different spot - they were lurking behind the Nacho Cheese ones where I couldn't see them. What the eff, Vending Machine Stocker Guy - who in their right mind puts a DIFFERENT flavor behind the other flavor? What if I wanted those instead? And, I did! If I had known they were there, I would've pestered coworkers until they went and bought the Nacho Cheese Doritos and got them out of my damn way, and I would've had those lovely Cool Ranch ones. Not that Nacho Cheese aren't great - they are one of the world's most perfect foods - but I wanted Cool Ranch. Damn you, Vending Machine Man! (And don't tell me I should've bought both - read above to see what happens when I am around large amounts of Doritos. It's much better for everyone if there is a definitive amount that I have access to.)
Arrgh. I swear, lunch = ruined. All because of the Vending Machine Man's trickery.
*Wombats have very little self control. In case you were wondering.
04 January 2011
The Entertainer, Volume 10
Title: Toy Story 3
Notable Actors: Tim Allen, Tom Hanks
Why?: Because I love the first two.
Three Thoughts: OMG, you guys. I watched this like two months ago, and I think it was in the time when I lost track of what I was reading and watching and forgot to blog about half of it. And I don't know how on earth I could've forgotten about this one, because it's seriously the best movie I've seen so far this year. Everything about this film is perfect - suspense, sadness and happiness without being sappy, nostalgia, the plot itself. You guys know how I have no soul and don't cry at movies? If ever there was a movie to break me, it would be this one. I don't care if it's about toys. It's just that fantastic. I can't elaborate without giving away plot points, but yeah. Watch this movie. Put it at the top of your Netflix queue, and do it now. (Here is a good review from a critic I really like and usually agree with, if you want to read more.)
Title: Star Island
Author: Carl Hiassen
Why?: Because my boss handed it to me and told me I'd really like it.
Three Thoughts: Hiassen's so much fun, and this book totally proves it. The crazy, south Florida world he creates fits perfectly with the organized chaos and hilarity of the story. I haven't read too many of his books, but this one is definitely one of my favorites.
Title: InceptionNotable Actors: Leonardo DiCaprio, Cillian Murphy (who looks a heck of a lot like Tom Welling in this), Ellen Page
Why?: Because I'm trying to get a head start on seeing the Oscar Best Picture nominees, and I have a feeling this will be one of them.
Three Thoughts: This was quite the freaky little film...but I liked it better than Black Swan, which was the last freaky, critically praised one I saw. Very intricate, but I don't think overtly or gratuitously so. I'd recommend it, if you're willing to pay attention to it. (That being said, the number one thing I felt after watching it was how much I really wanted to rewatch Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. Now THERE is a kickass movie about dreams.)
Title: Dexter (Season 5)
Notable Actors: The same lot as the last time I talked about it, with the addition of some hot guys and Julia Stiles.
Why: Because I like it. And it takes a lot for me to break up with a show when we've been through so much together.
Three Thoughts: Much less frustrating than last season, which was nice. Although, can I just talk about how creepy it is when actors I like play serial killers? I mean, Michael C. Hall is bad enough, but at least he's the good guy. You've already made me afraid of John Lithgow, show. Must you make me be scared of Eli Stone, or that guy who went to my high school, or Morris from ER (who I always really liked, despite the fact that he was kind of supposed to be a jerk)?
Notable Actors: A bunch of cartoon characters
Why?: Because I used to watch it back when I hated MTV and this and music videos were the only thing I would watch
Three Thoughts: You know how sometimes, you go back to a show you watched as a kid, and you think "Wow...this is really stupid. I respect its place in my history, but yeah...this DVD is getting sold on eBay or swapadvd.com." Daria is not that show. It's even better from an adult perspective - hilarious, but not in a juvenile sense, and easy to watch but not mind-numbing. Go find it, especially if you used to watch the show back when it was on MTV. Five seconds of the theme song and you'll be right back there again.
Notable Actors: George Michael Bluth, Ann Veal, and some other people like Jason Schwartzman and Superman who are nowhere near as cool as they are
Why?: Because I like Michael Cera.
Three Thoughts: You know, I speak Nerd well enough that I can get by, but it's movies like this that show me where my knowledge is lacking. I enjoyed it, it was a lot of fun, but I wish I had more background before I watched it. That being said, I have friends who I think would really really like this one (who I believe read this blog...comment if you think I mean you ;-)
Notable Actors: The same lot of them that are in all of these movies. And, Jon Hamm! That was a nice surprise, even if we don't get to actually see him.
Why?: Because I like Shrek.
Three Thoughts: You know how Toy Story gets better with every sequel? Shrek, not so much. I mean, it didn't suck, but what was clever in the first one is pretty much just a repeat in this one. Apparently it was 3-D in the theaters, which probably would've made it a bit more exciting, but I have to tell you, 3-D doesn't really impress me. And it doesn't help one bit when you're watching it in your living room as procrastination for cleaning after putting away your Christmas decorations.
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