(M) Crumb. (1994, Terry Zwigoff) Grade: B
This documentary about comic book artist Robert Crumb is a must-see for fans. For those moderately interested (like myself), it is an interesting look into the mind of this somewhat disturbing figure and his equally disturbing family. I enjoyed the psychoanalytical babble that art critics, sociologists and old girlfriends have to say about Crumb, from themes of sexual repression to misogyny (he never hides his hatred for women) to childhood abuse. But the most memorable part of this documentary is Crumb's brother Charles, who lived with his mother, was heavily medicated and hardly ever left the house before his imminent suicide.
Sunday, January 30
(B) The Big Blind. (2003, Louise Wener) Grade: B+
If you were a fan of the 90s Brit pop group Sleeper, then you might recognize the writer's name. Since the breakup of that moderately successful act, Wener has become a full-time author and, surprisingly, she is quite good at it. Although this sophomore effort is not as strong as her debut (Goodnight Steve McQueen), I enjoyed it nonetheless for its involving characters and humorous bits. I found myself skimming the technical elements but for Wener to write about gambling and poker, as opposed to bands and music, is a stretch and she handles it skillfully.
(R) The Brite Spot. (Echo Park) Grade: A-
This diner on Sunset is perfect for post-gig (or club) eating, because it is open until 4 a.m. Plus, the lighting is dim and inviting, unlike the harsh, garish light of diners such as Dennys. The menu is chockfull of healthy (and less healthy) choices, including several vegetarian dishes. My personal favorite is the carrot cake. The only downside might be the laid-back servers who are so casual about their job, it takes a little longer to get their attention.
If you were a fan of the 90s Brit pop group Sleeper, then you might recognize the writer's name. Since the breakup of that moderately successful act, Wener has become a full-time author and, surprisingly, she is quite good at it. Although this sophomore effort is not as strong as her debut (Goodnight Steve McQueen), I enjoyed it nonetheless for its involving characters and humorous bits. I found myself skimming the technical elements but for Wener to write about gambling and poker, as opposed to bands and music, is a stretch and she handles it skillfully.
(R) The Brite Spot. (Echo Park) Grade: A-
This diner on Sunset is perfect for post-gig (or club) eating, because it is open until 4 a.m. Plus, the lighting is dim and inviting, unlike the harsh, garish light of diners such as Dennys. The menu is chockfull of healthy (and less healthy) choices, including several vegetarian dishes. My personal favorite is the carrot cake. The only downside might be the laid-back servers who are so casual about their job, it takes a little longer to get their attention.
(M) Trois couleurs: Bleu (Blue). (1993, Krzysztof Kieslowski) Grade: B+
Thoughts: Blue is the first of Kieslowski's Three Colors trilogy. Strong movie and beautifully done but I have to agree with one review I read that there really was no plot ... but still wonderfully done. Juliette Binoche is amazing.
(A) Before the Dawn Heals Us. (2005, M83) Grade: B+
Thoughts: Great stuff but their second album Dead Cities, Red Seas & Lost Ghosts is AMAZING. Stand-out track: Don't Save Us From the Flames and In the Cold I'm Standing.
thanks for the b-day props sis ... and thanks to dorkus for the text and T.W.I.F.O.S.L.Y. for the Janet e-card :) i love scream janet jackson and i super love if janet jackson. hee hee right dorkus.
Thoughts: Blue is the first of Kieslowski's Three Colors trilogy. Strong movie and beautifully done but I have to agree with one review I read that there really was no plot ... but still wonderfully done. Juliette Binoche is amazing.
(A) Before the Dawn Heals Us. (2005, M83) Grade: B+
Thoughts: Great stuff but their second album Dead Cities, Red Seas & Lost Ghosts is AMAZING. Stand-out track: Don't Save Us From the Flames and In the Cold I'm Standing.
thanks for the b-day props sis ... and thanks to dorkus for the text and T.W.I.F.O.S.L.Y. for the Janet e-card :) i love scream janet jackson and i super love if janet jackson. hee hee right dorkus.
Saturday, January 29
Wednesday, January 26
Let me just clarify that I do NOT listen to the Tom Lykes show. I've listened to his show maybe 2 other times and found him to be a male chauvinist pig. He pissed me off too much so I couldn't listen anymore. He generalizes way too much about women. But we have freedom of speech (for the most part), so he can say whatever he wants.
(M) Who Are You?. (2002, Choi Ho) Grade: B
Thoughts: Think You've Got Mail Korean style and you get Who Are You? Charming and cute. Keeping true to most Asian films the physical attraction was kept light. I think they most they did was maybe hold hands. :) Ahhh nothing better than repressing your feelings.
(M) Annie Hall. (1977, Woody Allen) Grade: B+
Thoughts: I'm not a huge Woody Allen fan. I think you either love him or hate him. However this movie was very clever. Given the date of this film the subject matter about love and relationships still applies.
(M) Dirty Pretty Things. (2002, Stephen Frears) Grade: C+
Thoughts: Not sure why this movie got so much hype ... it was okay at best. I found it misleading that Audrey Tautou is pictured on the cover of the dvd yet her character was secondary to the main character played by Chiwetel Ejiofor, who I just adored. Another little thing to note was Sophie Okonedo role as a hooker who is now nominated for her role in Hotel Rhwanda. How awesome is that.
(M) Three ... Extremes. (2004, Takashi Miike, Fruit Chan, Byung-hun Lee) Grade: C, A-, B
Thoughts: This film is broken up into three horror stories ... hence the three ratings. the first is called Box by Takashi Mike. The story was weak and uninteresting and I didn't really care about the character. the last one is called Cut by Byung-huh Lee ... interesting but still just alright. the middle one called Dumpling by Fruit Chan is the one I will really review. The basic story is a woman is tired of feeling old and wants to look young in hopes of getting her husband's attention back. According to Chinese folklore one way to keep young was to eat baby fetuses ... well you can see where this is going. It was pretty hard to watch some scenes. The stories goes on to say the older the fetus the younger you will become ... so a five month baby would be great. (shiver) It was pretty hard to watch.
Thoughts: Think You've Got Mail Korean style and you get Who Are You? Charming and cute. Keeping true to most Asian films the physical attraction was kept light. I think they most they did was maybe hold hands. :) Ahhh nothing better than repressing your feelings.
(M) Annie Hall. (1977, Woody Allen) Grade: B+
Thoughts: I'm not a huge Woody Allen fan. I think you either love him or hate him. However this movie was very clever. Given the date of this film the subject matter about love and relationships still applies.
(M) Dirty Pretty Things. (2002, Stephen Frears) Grade: C+
Thoughts: Not sure why this movie got so much hype ... it was okay at best. I found it misleading that Audrey Tautou is pictured on the cover of the dvd yet her character was secondary to the main character played by Chiwetel Ejiofor, who I just adored. Another little thing to note was Sophie Okonedo role as a hooker who is now nominated for her role in Hotel Rhwanda. How awesome is that.
(M) Three ... Extremes. (2004, Takashi Miike, Fruit Chan, Byung-hun Lee) Grade: C, A-, B
Thoughts: This film is broken up into three horror stories ... hence the three ratings. the first is called Box by Takashi Mike. The story was weak and uninteresting and I didn't really care about the character. the last one is called Cut by Byung-huh Lee ... interesting but still just alright. the middle one called Dumpling by Fruit Chan is the one I will really review. The basic story is a woman is tired of feeling old and wants to look young in hopes of getting her husband's attention back. According to Chinese folklore one way to keep young was to eat baby fetuses ... well you can see where this is going. It was pretty hard to watch some scenes. The stories goes on to say the older the fetus the younger you will become ... so a five month baby would be great. (shiver) It was pretty hard to watch.
*raises hand* yup i am one of those people. i am 25, i'm paying rent(875/month) and i am currently 110k in debt from college, grad school and med school. by the end of all this i will be about 250k in debt not counting my CC debt. my CC debt isn't that bad, i'm keeping it under wraps but it's hard with all these stupid expenses. for example, i have had to do all this maintenance stuff for my car and at the end of all of this i will have paid 1300 for my car. but its' a good investment cuz my car will last 10 more years.
i like to think i get my bad financial planning from my mom, but i'm trying to fix it. it just sux not having an income, and even moreso i'm making negative income. ANYWAY yeah that's my money woes. hopefully in 5 years i'll be alright(alright as in making money and paying back my loans....)
i like to think i get my bad financial planning from my mom, but i'm trying to fix it. it just sux not having an income, and even moreso i'm making negative income. ANYWAY yeah that's my money woes. hopefully in 5 years i'll be alright(alright as in making money and paying back my loans....)
Okay I was listening to the Tom Lykes show on 97.1 today and they were talking about generation debt and how most 18-34 year olds are in debt. One 31 year old woman called in and said she had 60,000 in school loans, and 20,000 in credit card loans because she bought stupid things like clothes and make up that she didn't need and she only paid the minimum on her credit card. Wha? Why would you only pay the minimum? Isn't that only like $50 a month or something? She also said she only knows one person who is not in debt and who actually has money in savings, and everyone else she knows is in debt and/or filed for bankruptcy. What is wrong with people? Why do we buy things we don't need? Why are we fooling ourselves?
If you buy something on sale, you're not really saving any money because of the 20% finance charge on your card. I used to shop a lot, but realized recently that I should start saving money each month for a down payment for a home. So anyway, after I turned off my shopping switch and stopped shopping, I found it was really easy to tell myself I didn't need this pair of shoes or this purse. And my wallet has thanked me. I'm fortunate to have money in savings, a 401K, and not too much on my credit card. But it just makes me wonder and worry about friends who owe tons in school loans and have escalating credit card debt. (And some of these friends don't even have rent to worry about!)
For those of you who still read this blog page, I'd appreciate your thoughts on this whole generation debt thing.
If you buy something on sale, you're not really saving any money because of the 20% finance charge on your card. I used to shop a lot, but realized recently that I should start saving money each month for a down payment for a home. So anyway, after I turned off my shopping switch and stopped shopping, I found it was really easy to tell myself I didn't need this pair of shoes or this purse. And my wallet has thanked me. I'm fortunate to have money in savings, a 401K, and not too much on my credit card. But it just makes me wonder and worry about friends who owe tons in school loans and have escalating credit card debt. (And some of these friends don't even have rent to worry about!)
For those of you who still read this blog page, I'd appreciate your thoughts on this whole generation debt thing.
Saturday, January 22
(M) In Good Company. (2004, Paul Weitz). Grade: B+
Not only does it star my future husband Topher Grace, it was also genuinely funny and touching. Grace and Dennis Quiad gave great performances. (I never thought Dennis Quaid could be that funny, but he is.) Scarlett Johanssen's part in the movie is nothing great, but she's hot, so who cares? Haha. The movie gets bonus points for being fairly realistic.
My only question is how come they played 2 Shins songs and 1 Damien Rice song, but left them off the soundtrack? I'm just saying..Look for 3 songs from Iron and Wine and 2 songs from Soundtrack of Our Lives on the soundtrack.
(G) Paris Combo. (January 19, 05 at Fais Do Do). Grade: A+
When I listen to Paris Combo, I imagine them performing at a dimly lit Paris cafe as patrons drink wine and smoke cigarettes. Belle du Berry's voice is beautiful and oh so French. Although the Eiffel Tower was nowhere to be found, Wednesday's performance came pretty close to conjuring images of a cool, hip Paris. The kind you always imagined. Their album Motifs was just released, but I recommend checking out the Attraction album first. And throw in some crepes and baguettes for good measure.
(O) Museum of Photographic Arts, Balboa Park. (2004-2005, Jeff Bridges). Grade: B
Currently exhibiting at MoPA are Jeff Bridges' photos taken from behind the scenes on his movies over the last 25 years. The collection is pretty impressive, as are the photos (taken on a Widelux camera). Photos from such movies as The Door in the Floor, The Big Lebowski, The Fabulous Baker Boys, The Fisher King, The Mirror has Two Faces, and much more are featured. There are only two other photographers featured at MoPA, but it's not bad for $4 entrance.
Not only does it star my future husband Topher Grace, it was also genuinely funny and touching. Grace and Dennis Quiad gave great performances. (I never thought Dennis Quaid could be that funny, but he is.) Scarlett Johanssen's part in the movie is nothing great, but she's hot, so who cares? Haha. The movie gets bonus points for being fairly realistic.
My only question is how come they played 2 Shins songs and 1 Damien Rice song, but left them off the soundtrack? I'm just saying..Look for 3 songs from Iron and Wine and 2 songs from Soundtrack of Our Lives on the soundtrack.
(G) Paris Combo. (January 19, 05 at Fais Do Do). Grade: A+
When I listen to Paris Combo, I imagine them performing at a dimly lit Paris cafe as patrons drink wine and smoke cigarettes. Belle du Berry's voice is beautiful and oh so French. Although the Eiffel Tower was nowhere to be found, Wednesday's performance came pretty close to conjuring images of a cool, hip Paris. The kind you always imagined. Their album Motifs was just released, but I recommend checking out the Attraction album first. And throw in some crepes and baguettes for good measure.
(O) Museum of Photographic Arts, Balboa Park. (2004-2005, Jeff Bridges). Grade: B
Currently exhibiting at MoPA are Jeff Bridges' photos taken from behind the scenes on his movies over the last 25 years. The collection is pretty impressive, as are the photos (taken on a Widelux camera). Photos from such movies as The Door in the Floor, The Big Lebowski, The Fabulous Baker Boys, The Fisher King, The Mirror has Two Faces, and much more are featured. There are only two other photographers featured at MoPA, but it's not bad for $4 entrance.
Friday, January 21
Thursday, January 20
Wednesday, January 19
(B) How to Breathe Underwater. (2003, Julie Orringer) Grade: B+
Orringer has written an interesting collection of short stories about adolescence, life and tragedy from the point of view of various female characters. Some of the unconventional prose is trying (i.e. "Notes to Sixth-Grade Self") but the book ends with the indelible "Stations of the Cross," which made me pause with thought.
(M) Annie Hall. (1977, Woody Allen) Grade: A
My first thought after the film ended was, "I can't believe I waited this long to see this film." An absolute gem. Hilarious, smart and witty script. Diane Keaton is winning as Annie. And Woody Allen is ace as a New York neurotic. Love is too weak a word for what I feel--I luuurve you, you know, I loave you, I luff you, two F's, yes I have to invent, of course I--I do, don't you think I do?
Orringer has written an interesting collection of short stories about adolescence, life and tragedy from the point of view of various female characters. Some of the unconventional prose is trying (i.e. "Notes to Sixth-Grade Self") but the book ends with the indelible "Stations of the Cross," which made me pause with thought.
(M) Annie Hall. (1977, Woody Allen) Grade: A
My first thought after the film ended was, "I can't believe I waited this long to see this film." An absolute gem. Hilarious, smart and witty script. Diane Keaton is winning as Annie. And Woody Allen is ace as a New York neurotic. Love is too weak a word for what I feel--I luuurve you, you know, I loave you, I luff you, two F's, yes I have to invent, of course I--I do, don't you think I do?
Tuesday, January 18
Wow I guess its been a while since I blogged so here you go. First off some reviews:
(M) Aviator. (2004, Martin Scorsese) Grade: A-
I really liked this movie, first of all its Martin directing so you know you are in for something really special. I think that everyone in the movie put on great performances, especially leo and cate blanchett. Leo had the Texas drawl down to a T and was able to play someone with mental problems realistically again (gilbert grape). The reason for the minus on my grade is because I really wanted to see what happened to Howard Hughes in the following years. I read that he went into seclusion running his business while sealed off from the public. He eventually died in an accident and his 6'2" body weighed just 90 lbs....so what happened to him?
(M) Hotel Rwanda. (2004, Terry George) Grade: A
I rate this movie higher than the previous because of the subject matter. I have been a fan of Don Cheadle for quite sometime now, since his Picket Fences days and i think this could be his crowning performance as an actor. The movie does not focus on the killings going on, but instead on a man who is saving. There is talk of what is going on in the country and a few glimpses but for the most part it all on surviving. I think this is much better than going for shock value of death and destruction. The shocking part to us all is that no one cared to stop this massacre from happening, not the U.S., no one in Europe, not the UN, and thats the bigger tragedy.
(TV) Airline. (2004, A&E) Grade: B+
This is a great series on A&E that you should all check out on Monday nights from 8-9 pm. The concept is simple you follow workers around in random airports throughout the country. You get to see lots of drunks trying to get on a plane, the random stuff people try to put in theis suitcases, and other problems that arise, its quite funny and entertaining.
Quick reviews of other things:
Finding Neverland: B+
Pokerstars.com: C
My New Computer: A-
Rollercoaster Tycoon 3: B
Well i hope that gives you all something to read and disucss here is another topic: The Holy Roman Empire was neither holy nor in rome...disucss.
(M) Aviator. (2004, Martin Scorsese) Grade: A-
I really liked this movie, first of all its Martin directing so you know you are in for something really special. I think that everyone in the movie put on great performances, especially leo and cate blanchett. Leo had the Texas drawl down to a T and was able to play someone with mental problems realistically again (gilbert grape). The reason for the minus on my grade is because I really wanted to see what happened to Howard Hughes in the following years. I read that he went into seclusion running his business while sealed off from the public. He eventually died in an accident and his 6'2" body weighed just 90 lbs....so what happened to him?
(M) Hotel Rwanda. (2004, Terry George) Grade: A
I rate this movie higher than the previous because of the subject matter. I have been a fan of Don Cheadle for quite sometime now, since his Picket Fences days and i think this could be his crowning performance as an actor. The movie does not focus on the killings going on, but instead on a man who is saving. There is talk of what is going on in the country and a few glimpses but for the most part it all on surviving. I think this is much better than going for shock value of death and destruction. The shocking part to us all is that no one cared to stop this massacre from happening, not the U.S., no one in Europe, not the UN, and thats the bigger tragedy.
(TV) Airline. (2004, A&E) Grade: B+
This is a great series on A&E that you should all check out on Monday nights from 8-9 pm. The concept is simple you follow workers around in random airports throughout the country. You get to see lots of drunks trying to get on a plane, the random stuff people try to put in theis suitcases, and other problems that arise, its quite funny and entertaining.
Quick reviews of other things:
Finding Neverland: B+
Pokerstars.com: C
My New Computer: A-
Rollercoaster Tycoon 3: B
Well i hope that gives you all something to read and disucss here is another topic: The Holy Roman Empire was neither holy nor in rome...disucss.
(G) Arcade Fire. (Jan. 15, 2004, Troubadour) Grade: A
Thoughts: Awesome .... wow !!! As soon as they hit the stage they were fired up and ready to go. Regine Chassagne is amazing live, just watching her move is great. the cd doesn't do their live performance justice.
(M) Aviator. (2004, Martin Scorsese) Grade: A-
Thoughts: A good movie overall. It was well done but then again it was Scoreses and he does everything to perfection. Leonardo was great in the film. He did a really good job trying to get Howard Hughes mannerisms down. Cate Blanchett was wonderful in the film. I just adore her. My only complaint was it was a bit long and dragged a bit at the end.
(M) Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights. (2004, Guy Ferland) Grade: D+
Thoughts: Okay before you mock I only rented this film because Diego Luna was in it but man even he couldn't save this stinker. Blech. I was fast forward through most of it and it was only an hour and half. Ha Ha. Go watch Strictly Ballroom or the original Dirty Dancing instead.
What is so great about the movie Sideways?!? I don't get it people. First, I don't think it qualifies as a comedy. Second, is Virginia Madsen's 10 minutes of screen time enough to garner a Golden Globe nomination? I don't think so. I'm not saying she didn't do a good job, I just think she was hardly in the movie. I simply don't agree with people who keep talking about how great this movie is.
Saturday, January 15
why am i pushing the apple products?? actually i'm only pushing the pod stuff because i love them :) sorry no reviews on movies and stuff. how depressing is this ... work is so bad i can't even watch my usual netflix movies (sigh). but how sick is this ... i joined another dvd online service called nicheflix. ha ha but it has ALL the chinese movies i want to watch :) and i want to get into korea films and they have a bunch. can't help it.
Thursday, January 13
(TV) Simpsons: "Deep Space Homer." (1994,Fox, Season Five DVD) Grade:A-
Thoughts: Proving once again this show is genius ...."You're right, Marge. Just like the time I could have met Mr. T at the mall. The entire day I kept saying, 'I'll go a little later. I'll go a little later.' And then when I got there, they told me he'd just left. And when I asked the mall guy if he would ever come back again, he said he didn't know. Well, I'm never going to let something like that happen again! I'm going into space right now!"-Homer"
so if you have been living under a rock you all should have heard the announcement from Apple on Tuesday regarding the ipod shuffle and the mac mini. pretty cool stuff if you ask me :). anyone thinking about getting a pod but don't want to shell out the funds might want the ipod shuffle.
Thoughts: Proving once again this show is genius ...."You're right, Marge. Just like the time I could have met Mr. T at the mall. The entire day I kept saying, 'I'll go a little later. I'll go a little later.' And then when I got there, they told me he'd just left. And when I asked the mall guy if he would ever come back again, he said he didn't know. Well, I'm never going to let something like that happen again! I'm going into space right now!"-Homer"
so if you have been living under a rock you all should have heard the announcement from Apple on Tuesday regarding the ipod shuffle and the mac mini. pretty cool stuff if you ask me :). anyone thinking about getting a pod but don't want to shell out the funds might want the ipod shuffle.
(W)website - Pokerstars.com
Yeah I know it's (O) for other, but I am crazy like that. This review is for all those poker enthusiasts that have sprouted during the recent boom. It is easy to access and you can play with real or fake money. There is a major drawback to it, this is that it is very unrealistic in the way you receive the bulk of your hands. The program seems to give you blocks and streaks of time where you will win all of your hands, playing with good or bad cards, then it may go sour and destroy your good hands in "Chunks" (sloth style) of time as well. A theory is that they are just trying to make the wins and losses equal out so no one has a real big cash out and so they can just make their money by keeping the money within the system. Since this website is sort of unrealistic, it is hard to learn to play on it, but you still will learn, and you probably will appreciate it. Try it out, but I would suggest using play money only.
Grade: C - it is one of many poker websites, and i'm sure that all of them have the same sort of program so i'm putting the website against a real casino. I think it may beat bodog though.
Yeah I know it's (O) for other, but I am crazy like that. This review is for all those poker enthusiasts that have sprouted during the recent boom. It is easy to access and you can play with real or fake money. There is a major drawback to it, this is that it is very unrealistic in the way you receive the bulk of your hands. The program seems to give you blocks and streaks of time where you will win all of your hands, playing with good or bad cards, then it may go sour and destroy your good hands in "Chunks" (sloth style) of time as well. A theory is that they are just trying to make the wins and losses equal out so no one has a real big cash out and so they can just make their money by keeping the money within the system. Since this website is sort of unrealistic, it is hard to learn to play on it, but you still will learn, and you probably will appreciate it. Try it out, but I would suggest using play money only.
Grade: C - it is one of many poker websites, and i'm sure that all of them have the same sort of program so i'm putting the website against a real casino. I think it may beat bodog though.
Wednesday, January 12
Tuesday, January 11
yay it finally stopped raining. it was great to see blue skies and clouds that were not grey! another plus today, i finally figured out how to download "Lost" episodes from this website my cousin's bf recommended. it's www.easynews.com and you pay 10 bucks a month to download a maximum of 10 gigs of info(mp3, mpegs, avi, jpeg, docs, etc.) it's AWESOME. the download is fast b/c it's just files on a website and i feel more comfortable downloading in class cuz it's not like i have downloading software running. the songs are good quality and we'll see about the video stuff. anywho, here are 2 more reviews.....
(M) Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events.(2004, Brad Silberling ) Grade: B
I think the producers/directors/actors did a fantastic job of putting these books into film. There additions to the story, which were definitely necessary to tie the whole thing together and give the audience some closure. I'm glad they put 3 books in one movie because if they had put each book in their own movies, it would be a little redundant. I don't know if anyone has read them, but each of the books follow the same basic plot: bad guy tries OVER AND OVER AND OVER AGAIN to get to these kids' money and no one believes the kids. I dunno who LS got away with writing more than 3 of these, but hey, he's making money. I stopped reading after the 3rd book in the series.
(M) Spanglish.(2004, James L. Brooks) Grade: B
The only thing that sort of bugged me about the movie was that at the end of the story, one of the conflicts were resolved, but the other more emphasized conflict with the family was not. I don't really wanna get into details, but if you watch it you'll see. Otherwise, it was funny, sad, frustrating and heartwarming all at the same time.
(M) Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events.(2004, Brad Silberling ) Grade: B
I think the producers/directors/actors did a fantastic job of putting these books into film. There additions to the story, which were definitely necessary to tie the whole thing together and give the audience some closure. I'm glad they put 3 books in one movie because if they had put each book in their own movies, it would be a little redundant. I don't know if anyone has read them, but each of the books follow the same basic plot: bad guy tries OVER AND OVER AND OVER AGAIN to get to these kids' money and no one believes the kids. I dunno who LS got away with writing more than 3 of these, but hey, he's making money. I stopped reading after the 3rd book in the series.
(M) Spanglish.(2004, James L. Brooks) Grade: B
The only thing that sort of bugged me about the movie was that at the end of the story, one of the conflicts were resolved, but the other more emphasized conflict with the family was not. I don't really wanna get into details, but if you watch it you'll see. Otherwise, it was funny, sad, frustrating and heartwarming all at the same time.
Monday, January 10
(M) Kinsey. (2004, Bill Condon). Grade: B+
Funny and touching (?) movie based on the life of Alfred Kinsey, who changed American culture back in the 50's with his sex research. Certainly not for prudes.
(M) Chungking Express. (1994, Wong Kar-Wai). Grade: C
New Wave's gonna kill me for this one. But seriously: how many f*ing times do I have to hear California Dreaming play in one movie? Grr, one of the characters annoyed me so much. Saving graces? Takeshi Kaneshiro and Tony Leung. Do I have the yellow fever or what?
(TV) Reno 911 Season 1. (2004). Grade: A
Genius.
Funny and touching (?) movie based on the life of Alfred Kinsey, who changed American culture back in the 50's with his sex research. Certainly not for prudes.
(M) Chungking Express. (1994, Wong Kar-Wai). Grade: C
New Wave's gonna kill me for this one. But seriously: how many f*ing times do I have to hear California Dreaming play in one movie? Grr, one of the characters annoyed me so much. Saving graces? Takeshi Kaneshiro and Tony Leung. Do I have the yellow fever or what?
(TV) Reno 911 Season 1. (2004). Grade: A
Genius.
(TV) 24: "7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m." (2004,Fox) Grade:A+
Thoughts: Okay I know I'm giving this an A+ and the series has just started but I have to say ... IT'S BEEN GREAT. A whole new cast means a whole new feel and it works. I was worried I wouldn't like it but boy was I wrong.
when will it stop raining. oh my gosh i'm going mad without seeing the sun (though i don't like the sun's rays). my drive to work has been so hard and tiring. ugh. i was watching the news and they said on avg. we should be getting four inches of rain this season but so far we have gotten 22. yikes.
Thoughts: Okay I know I'm giving this an A+ and the series has just started but I have to say ... IT'S BEEN GREAT. A whole new cast means a whole new feel and it works. I was worried I wouldn't like it but boy was I wrong.
when will it stop raining. oh my gosh i'm going mad without seeing the sun (though i don't like the sun's rays). my drive to work has been so hard and tiring. ugh. i was watching the news and they said on avg. we should be getting four inches of rain this season but so far we have gotten 22. yikes.
Sunday, January 9
(M) Manchurian Candidate. (2004, Jonathan Demme) Grade: B-
Sorry, I can NOT put pluses/minuses...I've lived my whole academic career on those 2 symbols). I put the minus because the science wasn't really plausible---yes i'm a dork. Great performances by the whole cast, which is what really carried this movie. It'd be kind of freaky if this movie is what G.W. was all about hehe. Has anyone seen the original? I haven't.
(M) Garden State. (2004, Zach Braff--one f or 2?)
Grade: B+
Finally a hyped up indie film that actually lived up to the hype. I think it's also that I didn't expect anything from it, unlike Napoleon Dynamite, but even if I had expected anything I would have been satisfied. Natalie Portman was charming and sometimes borderline annoying, but she gave the movie and Zach Braff's character life. I really liked the soundtrack. Kudos to (if anyone watches scrubs)"JD"...no longer a newbie.
(M) Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.(2004, Alfonso Cuarón)
Grade: B
When I first watched this movie in the theaters I would have given it a C- just because I was so disappointed with the story changes. But now that I have the DVD (thanks to New Wave) I will rate it again, because my feelings have changed. I still don't like the annoying shrunken head---especially the cheesy, so-not-funny interviews with the cast he did, but all the other changes I can handle. Yes, the storyline didn't follow the book exactly, but that's ok. At least now I know that J.K. Rowling approves of all the changes. I think Alfonso Cuaron did a fabulous job making the set darker and a little more "real" compared to Chris Columbus' movies. The visual effects were great. The acting is progressively improving, so they should be ready for the Goblet of Fire(can't wait!). Cho Chang here we come!---that's gonna be(better be) a long ass movie!
I'll rate (B) Angels and Demons once I finish reading it and (TV) Lost and (TV) Joey once the season is over.
Sorry, I can NOT put pluses/minuses...I've lived my whole academic career on those 2 symbols). I put the minus because the science wasn't really plausible---yes i'm a dork. Great performances by the whole cast, which is what really carried this movie. It'd be kind of freaky if this movie is what G.W. was all about hehe. Has anyone seen the original? I haven't.
(M) Garden State. (2004, Zach Braff--one f or 2?)
Grade: B+
Finally a hyped up indie film that actually lived up to the hype. I think it's also that I didn't expect anything from it, unlike Napoleon Dynamite, but even if I had expected anything I would have been satisfied. Natalie Portman was charming and sometimes borderline annoying, but she gave the movie and Zach Braff's character life. I really liked the soundtrack. Kudos to (if anyone watches scrubs)"JD"...no longer a newbie.
(M) Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.(2004, Alfonso Cuarón)
Grade: B
When I first watched this movie in the theaters I would have given it a C- just because I was so disappointed with the story changes. But now that I have the DVD (thanks to New Wave) I will rate it again, because my feelings have changed. I still don't like the annoying shrunken head---especially the cheesy, so-not-funny interviews with the cast he did, but all the other changes I can handle. Yes, the storyline didn't follow the book exactly, but that's ok. At least now I know that J.K. Rowling approves of all the changes. I think Alfonso Cuaron did a fabulous job making the set darker and a little more "real" compared to Chris Columbus' movies. The visual effects were great. The acting is progressively improving, so they should be ready for the Goblet of Fire(can't wait!). Cho Chang here we come!---that's gonna be(better be) a long ass movie!
I'll rate (B) Angels and Demons once I finish reading it and (TV) Lost and (TV) Joey once the season is over.
(M) Shi mian mai fu (House of Flying Daggers). (2004, Yimou Zhang) Grade: B- // Visual Grade: A
Thoughts: Best movie of 2004 ... far from. Visually the movie is stunning but then again this is Yimou Zhang and that's what he does (see "Hero"). However what lacks in this film is a good story. I found the film too melodramatic, stylized and sexed up. I did not care for the characters or the love story ... about the only thing that held my interest was the House of Flying Daggers taking over the Emperor and that was less than 20 minutes of the whole film. One thing that did surprise me was Zhang Ziyi did not bother me as much as she usually does. I could be just extra harsh on the film because I had watched "Once Upon A Time In China" early this weekend, which was far superior in story and fight sequences. Hmmm no no ... I don't think it was that. Ha Ha.
Saturday, January 8
(B) Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim. (2004, David Sedaris) Grade: A
Sedaris is a consistently strong writer but what is most surprising about this collection is how touching and memorable his shortest entries are (i.e. Hejira and The End of the Affair). A good book to add to your collection.
Sedaris is a consistently strong writer but what is most surprising about this collection is how touching and memorable his shortest entries are (i.e. Hejira and The End of the Affair). A good book to add to your collection.
(M) Nueve reinas (Nine Queens). (2000,Fabián Bielinsky ) Grade: B+
Thoughts: US made a remake of this called "Criminal" which was okay at best. If you are going to watch this film watch this version. It is clever and more in-depth.
(M) Wong Fei-hung (Once Upon A Time In China). (1991, Hark Tsui) Grade: A
Thoughts: Forget "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon". Forget about the bad American films Jet Li has been in, ie. "Lethal Weapon 4". This is a great, GREAT kung fu movie. The fight scenes will blow your mind ... freaking awesome. The story line is a bit slow and confusing but no worries, the ending fight scenes makes up for everything.
Happy When It Rains - Jesus and Mary Chain:
"and we tried so hard
and we looked so good
and we lived our lives in black
but something about you felt like pain
you were my sunny day rain
you were the clouds in the sky
you were the darkest sky
but your lips spoke gold and honey
that's why i'm happy when it rains
i'm happy when it pours"
Friday, January 7
(B) Vintage Murakami. (2004, Haruki Murakami) Grade: B+
The Vintage series is an effective, time-efficient way to determine whether you like a writer. However, if you find the snippets particularly enjoyable, the Vintage series is unsatisfying, like being allowed to sample only a bite of a really delicious carrot cake. Mmm... Good introduction, but I am looking forward to reading Murakami's complete novels.
The Vintage series is an effective, time-efficient way to determine whether you like a writer. However, if you find the snippets particularly enjoyable, the Vintage series is unsatisfying, like being allowed to sample only a bite of a really delicious carrot cake. Mmm... Good introduction, but I am looking forward to reading Murakami's complete novels.
Tuesday, January 4
(B) The Polysyllabic Spree. (2004, Nick Hornby) Grade: A-
Until the release of his next novel A Long Way Down (due May 2005), this collection of essays about reading will satiate any Hornby fan. Hornby quotes Gabriel Zaid to describe himself (and myself): "The truly cultured are capable of owning thousands of unread books without losing their composure or their desire for more." Ah, well said.
Until the release of his next novel A Long Way Down (due May 2005), this collection of essays about reading will satiate any Hornby fan. Hornby quotes Gabriel Zaid to describe himself (and myself): "The truly cultured are capable of owning thousands of unread books without losing their composure or their desire for more." Ah, well said.
New Release Tuesday:
Troy - haven't seen it but hey pigern got it for me for free :0
Harold and Kumar Go To White Castle - yet another movie pigern got for me for free. hee hee.
Open Water - if you are into shark movies then maybe it is worth checking out.
Riding Giants - seems like a good surfing film.
Little Black Book - you have to wonder how these movies get made ???
(M) Harold and Kumar Go To White Castle. (2004, Danny Leiner) Overall Grade: C+ // Stupid Humor Grade: A
Thoughts: First off N.P.H wouldn't do that okay. Ha Ha. This movie works and doesn't work on so many levels. Overall not that great of a film ... BUT the scene where Kumar marries his bag of weed lives with me forever :)
Troy - haven't seen it but hey pigern got it for me for free :0
Harold and Kumar Go To White Castle - yet another movie pigern got for me for free. hee hee.
Open Water - if you are into shark movies then maybe it is worth checking out.
Riding Giants - seems like a good surfing film.
Little Black Book - you have to wonder how these movies get made ???
(M) Harold and Kumar Go To White Castle. (2004, Danny Leiner) Overall Grade: C+ // Stupid Humor Grade: A
Thoughts: First off N.P.H wouldn't do that okay. Ha Ha. This movie works and doesn't work on so many levels. Overall not that great of a film ... BUT the scene where Kumar marries his bag of weed lives with me forever :)
EFFECTIVE JANUARY 3, 2005 AND MOVING FORWARD THE HOUSE WILL NOW BE A REVIEW / RATING SITE.
all entries should look like the following, give or take some thoughts and feedback:
(M) Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. (2004, Michel Gondry) Grade: A
if you would like to just blog please put all entries in red:
i have something to say. please read this. blah blah blah
just copy these formats when you blog ... thanks.
all entries should look like the following, give or take some thoughts and feedback:
(M) Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. (2004, Michel Gondry) Grade: A
if you would like to just blog please put all entries in red:
i have something to say. please read this. blah blah blah
just copy these formats when you blog ... thanks.
(TV) Arrested Development Season 1. Grade: A
Rcvd this Secret Santa gift thanks to New Wave. I must say this show is so funny and brilliant, and I love love love that it pokes fun at OC socialites in this dry witty manner. Check it out. All new (second season) episodes air Sunday at 8:30 pm.
(M) Hero. Grade: B
Overrated? I don't know.
Rcvd this Secret Santa gift thanks to New Wave. I must say this show is so funny and brilliant, and I love love love that it pokes fun at OC socialites in this dry witty manner. Check it out. All new (second season) episodes air Sunday at 8:30 pm.
(M) Hero. Grade: B
Overrated? I don't know.
Monday, January 3
2005 ... wow. we are 5 years and 3 days into the 00s'(is that what you call it). ever notice as the years go by expectations for yourself seems to dwindle. i've given up on getting paid big money and working like a dog for some big company, not that i think i would have ever made it. i lack the ability to "play the game" and i'm not a spineless f*ck. i'm starting to accept i'll just be some low level accountant working for the man trying to obtain a house and maybe ... someday (gulp) a family.
its not like we have all this time ... before you know it we'll all be 30 or 40 something. what i'm trying to say is for 2005 try to do the most you can and really take advantage of the year. go travel, spend money, have fun, party, read, spend time with family and friends ... basically do stuff that you find fun because you don't want to spend your time wondering what you could of done but instead think of the stuff you did do.
okay enough positive talk ... back to the cynical view of things which is what i'm really good at.
i think i'm just saying all this because i'm starting to accept i will never move up in my job or make super good money or go to a good business school so i'm trying accept what a dork i am. and not the good geek dork like i wish i could be ... more the loser dork who watches way too many netflix movies because i don't have anything better to do my time.
oh and happy new year.
does anyone even read this or blog anymore ... geez (in disgust).
its not like we have all this time ... before you know it we'll all be 30 or 40 something. what i'm trying to say is for 2005 try to do the most you can and really take advantage of the year. go travel, spend money, have fun, party, read, spend time with family and friends ... basically do stuff that you find fun because you don't want to spend your time wondering what you could of done but instead think of the stuff you did do.
okay enough positive talk ... back to the cynical view of things which is what i'm really good at.
i think i'm just saying all this because i'm starting to accept i will never move up in my job or make super good money or go to a good business school so i'm trying accept what a dork i am. and not the good geek dork like i wish i could be ... more the loser dork who watches way too many netflix movies because i don't have anything better to do my time.
oh and happy new year.
does anyone even read this or blog anymore ... geez (in disgust).
Sunday, January 2
happy new year! my celebration was a bore but i found that more preferable than last year's expensive night out. after my recent buy of an imac and an ipod, plus last-minute christmas shopping (due to unexpected gifts), i am somewhat penniless. that should make my san fran trip next weekend fun. plus, the rain.
anyway, when i was around third street in santa monica the other day i saw a really hilarious sign at a music store: FREE (in small letters:) yourself from high prices and buy your GUITAR (in small letters:) from us today. hahaha.
looking back on 2004, it was a pretty good year: switched to a new job (that i *love*), i am finally published, and i made some good friends at the Web zine. hope everyone has an eventful 2005. i am hoping for even better things to come...
anyway, when i was around third street in santa monica the other day i saw a really hilarious sign at a music store: FREE (in small letters:) yourself from high prices and buy your GUITAR (in small letters:) from us today. hahaha.
looking back on 2004, it was a pretty good year: switched to a new job (that i *love*), i am finally published, and i made some good friends at the Web zine. hope everyone has an eventful 2005. i am hoping for even better things to come...
2005 will be a great year for everyone....I can feel it :) To ring in the new year, I shelled out $77.50 and attended the Giant new years eve party in LA. I finally saw The Killers and they were pretty good. Too bad they only played for 1 hour. Then for the rest of the time, I danced(?) to techno music. I got offered "e" like 20 times...but I just looked at them in disgust. "e" is soooo 4 years ago.
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