Today is Halloween, (warning white story emerging) I remember back in the day me and my brother used to dress up and then take pictures before going out trick-or-treating on our block. Those were good times; by the time my sister was going out we were too old. I hate it when people who are really way too old to be out come to my door, or when parents bring their baby who is like all of 2 months old, cause obviously the candy isn't for them. That’s just my little rant. It’s cool when you get little kids who are really excited about the night, which makes getting up off the couch worth it. haha.
Lets see, went to the my old high school's homecoming on Friday to watch my sister sing the national anthem with like 5 other girls. They sounded good and didn’t mess up so that’s all we can really ask for right?
On Saturday went to the USC football game. It’s pretty crazy the whole campus is crowded with cardinal and gold. I wish UCR had a football team so I could root for them, they wouldn't be any good, but it would be cool nevertheless to root for the school you actually went to, or so I’ve heard.
Hmm not much else going on right now, I'm blogging because new wave was threatening bodily harm and I was quite fearful of my life. Anyway, hope all is going well. I'll review some movies, tv shows or whatever else I do whenever I get a chance too.
Monday, October 31
Some random thoughts:
- I am excited about this movie Perhaps Love for a number of reason. 1. It has been chosen as the official entry into next year's Academy Awards for Hong Kong, 2. It has a Moulin Rouge feel to it, 3. It is a musical and 4. Jacky Cheung and Takeshi Kaneshiro star in it. It is suppose to be released December in Hong Kong so maybe, just maybe when I'm there I can catch it. Oh the joy.
It is coming out around the same time as the The Promise, China's entry for the Academy Awards.
- This is more for Dorkus. I finally caught up on my Gilmore Girls eps and I'm pissed. I'm about to jump couch on this darn show if things don't get better. I know they are bring Jess back but seriously I'm TIRED of watching Rory be this rich bitch pretty pretty princess. Yuck. I really don't like watching rich people be rich. It bugs me. I guess that's why I could never like a show like the O.C. because it is just rich white people talking aobut how sad it is that their lives are hard when they are so freaking rich.
- I am excited about this movie Perhaps Love for a number of reason. 1. It has been chosen as the official entry into next year's Academy Awards for Hong Kong, 2. It has a Moulin Rouge feel to it, 3. It is a musical and 4. Jacky Cheung and Takeshi Kaneshiro star in it. It is suppose to be released December in Hong Kong so maybe, just maybe when I'm there I can catch it. Oh the joy.
It is coming out around the same time as the The Promise, China's entry for the Academy Awards.
- This is more for Dorkus. I finally caught up on my Gilmore Girls eps and I'm pissed. I'm about to jump couch on this darn show if things don't get better. I know they are bring Jess back but seriously I'm TIRED of watching Rory be this rich bitch pretty pretty princess. Yuck. I really don't like watching rich people be rich. It bugs me. I guess that's why I could never like a show like the O.C. because it is just rich white people talking aobut how sad it is that their lives are hard when they are so freaking rich.
Sunday, October 30
(M) Tweeling, De (Twin Sisters). (Ben Sombogaart, 2002) Grade: B
Thoughts: Based on the bestselling novel by Tessa de Loo, twin sisters, Anna and Lotte, are seperated at birth to lead different lives only to meet up twice in all their years. After their parents death, Anna is sent to live with their poor country uncle while Lotte moves in with their rich aunt. Lotte tries to write to Anna but the letters are never sent and contact between the two fade until they are grown and find each other again. However things are much different now, Lotte is set to marry a Jewish man while Anna is part of Hilter's family as a maid. The film brings some points about family and the personal choices you make in your life. They were sisters by blood only but due to all the years apart they hardly knew each other.
(M) Live Forever. (John Dower, 2003) Grade: C+
Thoughts: This was a pointless documentary about Brit pop. They crammed too many bands into it without any information about them i.e. Portishead, Massive Attack, Sleeper, and Elastica. The main point of the film was Oasis vs. Blur and Tony Blair/Labour party election. The music through out the movie was wonderful but I was just trying to figure out what the point of the whole thing was. I did enjoy the interviews with Liam Gallagher, Jarvis Cocker and of course Damon Albarn (sigh).
(M) Brodre (Brothers). (Susanne Bier, 2004) Grade: B+
Thoughts: A great movie about war and family and trust and love. Michael (Ulrich Thomsen) is a U.N. soldier sent off to Afghanistan on a mission where it is later presumed he is dead. He leaves behind his wife and two daughters who are heart broken about the news. Michael's in and out of jail younger brother Jannik (Nikolaj Lie Kaas) steps up to the plate and tries to take care of the family. In reality, Michael is not dead but captured. In the end when Michael does return home things have changed for everyone. Powerful stuff, especailly the scenes where Michael is held prisoner.
(M) Mansfield Park. (Patricia Rozema, 1999) Grade: B
Thoughts: Mansfield Park is suppose to be loosely based on Jane Austen's real life however there has been much debate about how accurate the movie portrays that. At a young age Fanny Price (Frances O'Conner) is sent to live with her aunt at Mansfield Park, away from her seaport family in hopes of a better life. She grows up and in the process falls in love with her cousin Edmund Bertram (Jonny Lee Miller). As the movie plays out there are miscommunications and unspoken feelings but in the end the two realize how they truly feel. The film was as expected with no real surprises.
Thoughts: Based on the bestselling novel by Tessa de Loo, twin sisters, Anna and Lotte, are seperated at birth to lead different lives only to meet up twice in all their years. After their parents death, Anna is sent to live with their poor country uncle while Lotte moves in with their rich aunt. Lotte tries to write to Anna but the letters are never sent and contact between the two fade until they are grown and find each other again. However things are much different now, Lotte is set to marry a Jewish man while Anna is part of Hilter's family as a maid. The film brings some points about family and the personal choices you make in your life. They were sisters by blood only but due to all the years apart they hardly knew each other.
(M) Live Forever. (John Dower, 2003) Grade: C+
Thoughts: This was a pointless documentary about Brit pop. They crammed too many bands into it without any information about them i.e. Portishead, Massive Attack, Sleeper, and Elastica. The main point of the film was Oasis vs. Blur and Tony Blair/Labour party election. The music through out the movie was wonderful but I was just trying to figure out what the point of the whole thing was. I did enjoy the interviews with Liam Gallagher, Jarvis Cocker and of course Damon Albarn (sigh).
(M) Brodre (Brothers). (Susanne Bier, 2004) Grade: B+
Thoughts: A great movie about war and family and trust and love. Michael (Ulrich Thomsen) is a U.N. soldier sent off to Afghanistan on a mission where it is later presumed he is dead. He leaves behind his wife and two daughters who are heart broken about the news. Michael's in and out of jail younger brother Jannik (Nikolaj Lie Kaas) steps up to the plate and tries to take care of the family. In reality, Michael is not dead but captured. In the end when Michael does return home things have changed for everyone. Powerful stuff, especailly the scenes where Michael is held prisoner.
(M) Mansfield Park. (Patricia Rozema, 1999) Grade: B
Thoughts: Mansfield Park is suppose to be loosely based on Jane Austen's real life however there has been much debate about how accurate the movie portrays that. At a young age Fanny Price (Frances O'Conner) is sent to live with her aunt at Mansfield Park, away from her seaport family in hopes of a better life. She grows up and in the process falls in love with her cousin Edmund Bertram (Jonny Lee Miller). As the movie plays out there are miscommunications and unspoken feelings but in the end the two realize how they truly feel. The film was as expected with no real surprises.
Wednesday, October 26
I don't know why but I have been soooo addicted to this CD all year and in the last three months it's just been retarded how much I listen to it. I think it's just that it's great to keep me calm in my car while I drive, great as background music when studying or reading.
Also, I've been re-listening to this band below again. It's fun to pull out old cd's.
Also, if anyone cares, The Rentals have re-united.
Tuesday, October 25
If you are a woman and thinking of going to Guatemala, you may want to read this, or if you care about women's rights you may want to read it as well.
NY Times link
NY Times link
Monday, October 24
Why don't people know how to park? If there's a section of sidewalk that can easily park two cars, why do people park right in the middle and take up that other spot? Sheesh, common sense is not common.
Oh yeah, I was talking to my friends and found out that one of them doesn't even know how to parallel park! He just refuses to do it. Can you believe that? Even if the Denver Broncos were in the Superbowl and a radio station were giving away tickets if he could parallel park in a perfectly sizable space, he still wouldn't do it! Hahahaha...
Oh yeah, I was talking to my friends and found out that one of them doesn't even know how to parallel park! He just refuses to do it. Can you believe that? Even if the Denver Broncos were in the Superbowl and a radio station were giving away tickets if he could parallel park in a perfectly sizable space, he still wouldn't do it! Hahahaha...
Heidelberg, Germany
Sunset at Piazza Michelangelo - Florence, Italy
View from Il Duomo in Florence, Italy
Old Town Square - Prague(O) Europe (Fall 2005). Grade: A.
Here's my short and sweet review: Heidelberg looks like Disneyland, but it's simply gorgeous. Climbing to the top of the Dom Platz cathedral in Cologne was strenuous but worth it for the amazing views. Prague is sooo beautiful with it's castles and skylines. Definitely one of my favorites. Wencaslas Square, Jewish Quarter, Old Town, Prague Castle, Charles Bridge...Rome is chaotic, but its historic beauty is amazing. Vatican City is simply breathtaking . Florence - sunset at the Piazza Michelangelo - just magnificent. Anddd every other shop in Italy is literally a gelateria! Mmm gelato. The nocciola (hazelnut) gelato is sooo good.
(O) Conversion Rate. Grade: F
Ugh, I don't even want to talk about it. The American dollar doesn't have that much value in Europe. I'm taking a break from Europe and going somewhere where I can feast and live like a queen.
Here's my short and sweet review: Heidelberg looks like Disneyland, but it's simply gorgeous. Climbing to the top of the Dom Platz cathedral in Cologne was strenuous but worth it for the amazing views. Prague is sooo beautiful with it's castles and skylines. Definitely one of my favorites. Wencaslas Square, Jewish Quarter, Old Town, Prague Castle, Charles Bridge...Rome is chaotic, but its historic beauty is amazing. Vatican City is simply breathtaking . Florence - sunset at the Piazza Michelangelo - just magnificent. Anddd every other shop in Italy is literally a gelateria! Mmm gelato. The nocciola (hazelnut) gelato is sooo good.
(O) Conversion Rate. Grade: F
Ugh, I don't even want to talk about it. The American dollar doesn't have that much value in Europe. I'm taking a break from Europe and going somewhere where I can feast and live like a queen.
Sunday, October 23
(G) Say Hi To Your Mom/Nada Surf @ El Rey (Oct. 22) Grade: B
Enjoying a gig can be difficult if you have a mild case of bronchitis, but nevertheless... Say Hi favored noise volume over subtlety, which I think is more of their strength. A loud, raucous rock band might be what they strive for, but their music is otherwise. On the plus side, their merchandise was fantastic. I got a spaceship tee and pins (one of which reads, “Yeah, I fell in love with an android”). The merch gal probably thought I was their biggest fan, but I really just love spaceship/robot swag.
Nada Surf was in top form, and they knew it, playing for a solid two hours. That included two encores *and* their 1996 hit “Popular.” The only downside, besides depleting my cough drop supply, were the dudes and dudettes at the show. Who knew Nada entertained a frat crowd? Them and Pavement, and let’s not forget Radiohead. (Sorry New Wave.)
Enjoying a gig can be difficult if you have a mild case of bronchitis, but nevertheless... Say Hi favored noise volume over subtlety, which I think is more of their strength. A loud, raucous rock band might be what they strive for, but their music is otherwise. On the plus side, their merchandise was fantastic. I got a spaceship tee and pins (one of which reads, “Yeah, I fell in love with an android”). The merch gal probably thought I was their biggest fan, but I really just love spaceship/robot swag.
Nada Surf was in top form, and they knew it, playing for a solid two hours. That included two encores *and* their 1996 hit “Popular.” The only downside, besides depleting my cough drop supply, were the dudes and dudettes at the show. Who knew Nada entertained a frat crowd? Them and Pavement, and let’s not forget Radiohead. (Sorry New Wave.)
Tuesday, October 18
(TV) The Colbert Report (Comedy Central) Unofficial Grade: A
I give it an 'A' so far but won't be suprised if it becomes a B or C. So far he's off to a good start. I enjoyed the Daily Show but have grown a little tired of it. It has always had it's moments, Back In Black and anything Rob Corddry does. Jon can be entertaining but so far I find Colbert to be far more my style of humor than Stewart. I love his "Word" segment. I wonder if 'This Week In God' which was a segment he did when he was on The Daily Show will ever surface on his own show. Colbert is very quick on his feet (providing his interviews aren't completely rehearsed). I love that he's cocky and full of himself.
Side Note: Tried to watch Adam Corolla's show on Comedy Central.. ugh, it was killing me, had to turn it off which sucks cause I find him very entertaining on Loveline. I guess he just doesn't come off well visually for me. But, I haven't seen his home improvement show yet which would put him in a different environment which may work better for him.
Monday, October 17
hey FTC, Best Buy is offering an "exclusive" cover when you buy Batman Begins deluxe edition. i KNOW you're getting this anyway.
According to IMDB the following shows have been
Cancelled:
- Head Cases
- Inconceivable - Ming Na was in the show and I really like her.
- Just Legal - the guy from Undeclared was in this show but eh.
- Sex, Love and Secrets - this was suppose to be like Melrose Place but in the Sliverlake area of Los Angeles.
and
Picked Up:
- Bones
- Commander in Chief
- Criminal Minds
- Everybody Hates Chris
- Ghost Whisperer
- How I Met Your Mother
- My Name Is Earl
- Prison Break
- Supernatural
- The War at Home
Cancelled:
- Head Cases
- Inconceivable - Ming Na was in the show and I really like her.
- Just Legal - the guy from Undeclared was in this show but eh.
- Sex, Love and Secrets - this was suppose to be like Melrose Place but in the Sliverlake area of Los Angeles.
and
Picked Up:
- Bones
- Commander in Chief
- Criminal Minds
- Everybody Hates Chris
- Ghost Whisperer
- How I Met Your Mother
- My Name Is Earl
- Prison Break
- Supernatural
- The War at Home
Friday, October 14
Some random thoughts:
- Because no one was really using the chatterbox, my account ended which is why you see the bad id info on the side. If you guys want it back let me know and I'll start it up again.
- The reviews for Elizabethtown are pretty negative. I have no interest in seeing it because Kristen Dunst bugs me. Here is another review.
- The Curious George movie comes out in 2006 and even though it is for kids I think it looks pretty cute. Will Ferrell, Drew Barrymore, David Cross and Eugene Levy all lend voices to the film. Oh and Jack Johnson does the theme song.
- Because no one was really using the chatterbox, my account ended which is why you see the bad id info on the side. If you guys want it back let me know and I'll start it up again.
- The reviews for Elizabethtown are pretty negative. I have no interest in seeing it because Kristen Dunst bugs me. Here is another review.
- The Curious George movie comes out in 2006 and even though it is for kids I think it looks pretty cute. Will Ferrell, Drew Barrymore, David Cross and Eugene Levy all lend voices to the film. Oh and Jack Johnson does the theme song.
(M) Kontroll. (Nimród Antal, 2003) Grade: A-
Thoughts: Kontroll takes place and was shot entirely in the underground Budpest subway system in Hungary. Bulcsu (Sandor Csanyi) and his friends/coworkers are inspectors making sure everyone on the subway have paid their fare. In the process, Bulcsu meets a girl and falls in love while trying to figure out the person pushing/killing people onto the tracks. It was a great film and the soundtrack was awesome, very electronica/new wave.
(M) Plata quemada (Burnt Money). (Marcelo Pineyro, 2000) Grade: B
Thoughts: Based on a true story from Bueno Aires, a gay couple, participate in a botched bank robbery in 1965. The film would switch from bloody and violent to sweet and tender and it all worked. Nene (Leonardo Sbaraglia) and Angel (Eduard Noriega) try to keep their relationship going even though Angel keeps hearing voices. Nene strays to Giselle (Leticia Bredice) for comfort but his true love is Angel. I found both of the main characters extremely attractive and the entire movie entertaining.
(G) Sigur Ros. (Hollywood Bowl, Oct. 5th) Grade: A-
Thoughts: Oh how I love my Sigur Ros. (sigh) They are so magically and wonderful. Although I took a huge loss for my tickets it was worth it. I bought 2 tickets in terrace section for $115 bucks and ended up selling them for $40 because no one was really buying :(. The seats I got were from one of Pigern's friends who had 9th row in the pool section. It was so intimate and nice but those seats are kinda of uncomfortable. Overall a great show and seeing them at Hollywood Bowl under all the stars was lovely.
(G) Green Day (Wiltern, Oct. 11th) Grade: B+
Thoughts: This is not Green Day; this is "new" Green Day. I think the Green Day I wanted to see died a long time ago. Oh well. It was still a great show and they performed the American Idiot cd in its entirely which was interesting. You can watch the whole concert on AOL Live. Check it out if you have time.
Thoughts: Kontroll takes place and was shot entirely in the underground Budpest subway system in Hungary. Bulcsu (Sandor Csanyi) and his friends/coworkers are inspectors making sure everyone on the subway have paid their fare. In the process, Bulcsu meets a girl and falls in love while trying to figure out the person pushing/killing people onto the tracks. It was a great film and the soundtrack was awesome, very electronica/new wave.
(M) Plata quemada (Burnt Money). (Marcelo Pineyro, 2000) Grade: B
Thoughts: Based on a true story from Bueno Aires, a gay couple, participate in a botched bank robbery in 1965. The film would switch from bloody and violent to sweet and tender and it all worked. Nene (Leonardo Sbaraglia) and Angel (Eduard Noriega) try to keep their relationship going even though Angel keeps hearing voices. Nene strays to Giselle (Leticia Bredice) for comfort but his true love is Angel. I found both of the main characters extremely attractive and the entire movie entertaining.
(G) Sigur Ros. (Hollywood Bowl, Oct. 5th) Grade: A-
Thoughts: Oh how I love my Sigur Ros. (sigh) They are so magically and wonderful. Although I took a huge loss for my tickets it was worth it. I bought 2 tickets in terrace section for $115 bucks and ended up selling them for $40 because no one was really buying :(. The seats I got were from one of Pigern's friends who had 9th row in the pool section. It was so intimate and nice but those seats are kinda of uncomfortable. Overall a great show and seeing them at Hollywood Bowl under all the stars was lovely.
(G) Green Day (Wiltern, Oct. 11th) Grade: B+
Thoughts: This is not Green Day; this is "new" Green Day. I think the Green Day I wanted to see died a long time ago. Oh well. It was still a great show and they performed the American Idiot cd in its entirely which was interesting. You can watch the whole concert on AOL Live. Check it out if you have time.
Wednesday, October 12
Tonight on David Letterman you can watch BRMC perform.
Side note/questions: New Wave... did you go to that Sigur Ros concert, if so, where's the review? Also, I hear what you're saying about The Bends and OK Computer but Pablo Honey trully is a great album!
Also, remember the Strokes? If anyone cares at all, their new album is to come out in January and it's rumored that their new single 'Juicebox' has been leaked onto file-sharing websites. (What are those?)
(O) IPod (Apple, Apple unveils event) Grade: A
Thoughts: OMG. OMG. OMG. OMG. :) I'm getting this no matter what. Hello it can play video. Oh yea!!!
Thoughts: OMG. OMG. OMG. OMG. :) I'm getting this no matter what. Hello it can play video. Oh yea!!!
Tuesday, October 11
(G) Clap Your Hands Say Yeah/The National @ Troubadour (Oct. 6) Grade: B+
Hype can be a dirty four-letter word. If you have been following the news on this tour, folks have been arriving for CYHSY and leaving before the National hit the stage. The same thing happened in L.A. Too bad for those who left early because The National put on a really solid set. You wouldn’t think listening to their albums, but those who cut out early should rethink missing them again. And at the very least, give each New York band a chance. CYHSY were good but a tad underwhelming.
(G) Idlewild @ El Rey (Oct. 7), @ Casbah (Oct. 8), @ Fingerprints (Oct. 10) Grade: A
Okay, I might seem a bit obsessed, but it would be far worse if I also flew up to SF to see them on Wednesday IMHO. Anyhow, Idlewild has the great ability to perform outstanding live sets plugged in and acoustic. El Rey was a wee sad since it was obviously less filled than their last performance there two years ago (I blame Capitol), but the band was ace nonetheless. Casbah was far better though because it is a much smaller venue (comparable to Silverlake Lounge) and more intimate. Plus, they added to the set list “A Film for the Future” from Hope is Important, back when Idlewild could be classified punk rock. Fingerprints was intimate as well and the newer tracks translate well in an acoustic setting. Inara George was the tour opener and she has a sweet and innocent voice, reminding me of a female Sondre Lerche in achieving that same dreamy pop folk.
Hype can be a dirty four-letter word. If you have been following the news on this tour, folks have been arriving for CYHSY and leaving before the National hit the stage. The same thing happened in L.A. Too bad for those who left early because The National put on a really solid set. You wouldn’t think listening to their albums, but those who cut out early should rethink missing them again. And at the very least, give each New York band a chance. CYHSY were good but a tad underwhelming.
(G) Idlewild @ El Rey (Oct. 7), @ Casbah (Oct. 8), @ Fingerprints (Oct. 10) Grade: A
Okay, I might seem a bit obsessed, but it would be far worse if I also flew up to SF to see them on Wednesday IMHO. Anyhow, Idlewild has the great ability to perform outstanding live sets plugged in and acoustic. El Rey was a wee sad since it was obviously less filled than their last performance there two years ago (I blame Capitol), but the band was ace nonetheless. Casbah was far better though because it is a much smaller venue (comparable to Silverlake Lounge) and more intimate. Plus, they added to the set list “A Film for the Future” from Hope is Important, back when Idlewild could be classified punk rock. Fingerprints was intimate as well and the newer tracks translate well in an acoustic setting. Inara George was the tour opener and she has a sweet and innocent voice, reminding me of a female Sondre Lerche in achieving that same dreamy pop folk.
(O) Rediscovering Great Music - Grade: A+
This year has not been anything exciting for me in music. The Doves album was par excellence for me but I haven't really been captured by anything else. Any band that has a song that catches my ear, with further investigation... it seems like just another one hit wonder to fade into the abyss. Maybe it's just that I'm not being exposed to much these days. So, I dug into my cd collection and fell in love with Kent and Pulp all over again. It's been wonderful!
Sunday, October 9
Dorkus, are you going to the Idlewild instore tomorrow at Fingerprints? I am still debating since I have to drive from mid-city L.A. But if anyone is in the area, you should come out. The poor band has definitely lost a significant percentage of their audience. Most of their shows were half empty on this recent tour. )-:
(M) A History of Violence (2005, David Cronenberg). Grade: ?
Um, I just came back from watching this movie, and I'm unsure as to whether I liked it or not. Anyway, the storyline goes like this: Small town man Tom Stalls becomes a hero after he kills two men who try to rob the restaurant he owns. These mobsters see Tom's face all over national television, and recognize him as Joey Cusack, an old mobster whom they have unfinished business with. The mobsters pay Tom and his family a visit and repeatedly threaten them, even though Tom does not know who these mobsters are, or why they think he's Joey Cusack. Then more stuff happens, which I will not go into because I don't want to give anything away.
All in all, Maria Bello was great (why does she get naked in every movie?), and Viggo Mortenson was good too, except he's just way hotter as Aragon. Interesting storyline, but at only an hour and a half, it leaves a little to be desired.
If you watched this movie, I'd appreciate your thoughts.
Um, I just came back from watching this movie, and I'm unsure as to whether I liked it or not. Anyway, the storyline goes like this: Small town man Tom Stalls becomes a hero after he kills two men who try to rob the restaurant he owns. These mobsters see Tom's face all over national television, and recognize him as Joey Cusack, an old mobster whom they have unfinished business with. The mobsters pay Tom and his family a visit and repeatedly threaten them, even though Tom does not know who these mobsters are, or why they think he's Joey Cusack. Then more stuff happens, which I will not go into because I don't want to give anything away.
All in all, Maria Bello was great (why does she get naked in every movie?), and Viggo Mortenson was good too, except he's just way hotter as Aragon. Interesting storyline, but at only an hour and a half, it leaves a little to be desired.
If you watched this movie, I'd appreciate your thoughts.
Thursday, October 6
(O)Trip to Oakland/San Francisco C-
This place i'm sure can be fun if you actually have an agenda or know people who can direct you to fun things to do. My trip however had neither outside of going to a baseball game. So basically I spent 2 days roaming around trying to think of things to do. I did get to eat a crab a fisherman's wharf and try the world famous marco polo gelato, so i guess it was not all bad right?
(M) Separate Lies. (2005, Julian Fellowes) Grade: C-
This movie could have easily been a 45-60 min special on lifetime or some other channel. The movie starts out good, you await something big to happen, it never does, and then the story turns to a part that really didn't need to be told. So yeah i sat there kinda mindboggled by it all. It could have been worse I guess, I mean I could have been stuck in a theater watching Just Like Heaven, so yet again, not all that bad.
okay i'm supposed to change colors when i ramble, so here you go. The baseball playoffs are currently going on (litterally i'm watching them right now!) but find myself rooting against everyone haha. I guess i'm somewhat rooting for the Astros, but i really just don't care. Its now football season, and thats way more important to me. After 4 trips to Las Vegas, one to the Grand Canyon, one to Hawaii, and one to SF/Oakland in 2 1/2 months I think i'm pretty much done traveling around for a while, its tiring and way to expensive. I think I have a few more hours of vacation just in case something comes up though.
This place i'm sure can be fun if you actually have an agenda or know people who can direct you to fun things to do. My trip however had neither outside of going to a baseball game. So basically I spent 2 days roaming around trying to think of things to do. I did get to eat a crab a fisherman's wharf and try the world famous marco polo gelato, so i guess it was not all bad right?
(M) Separate Lies. (2005, Julian Fellowes) Grade: C-
This movie could have easily been a 45-60 min special on lifetime or some other channel. The movie starts out good, you await something big to happen, it never does, and then the story turns to a part that really didn't need to be told. So yeah i sat there kinda mindboggled by it all. It could have been worse I guess, I mean I could have been stuck in a theater watching Just Like Heaven, so yet again, not all that bad.
okay i'm supposed to change colors when i ramble, so here you go. The baseball playoffs are currently going on (litterally i'm watching them right now!) but find myself rooting against everyone haha. I guess i'm somewhat rooting for the Astros, but i really just don't care. Its now football season, and thats way more important to me. After 4 trips to Las Vegas, one to the Grand Canyon, one to Hawaii, and one to SF/Oakland in 2 1/2 months I think i'm pretty much done traveling around for a while, its tiring and way to expensive. I think I have a few more hours of vacation just in case something comes up though.
Tuesday, October 4
(O) Chicago (September 2005). Grade: A
Okay if I have to be stuck for two and a half weeks in a city (for work), I'm glad it's in a city like Chicago, with it's gorgeous skylines and architecture and cultured neighborhoods. And the weather was perfect - sunny and breezy during the day, balmy at night.
(R) Sushi Wabi (E Randolph in Chicago, IL). Grade: A++
Good food all around, but who cares about the sushi when you have the best teriyaki glazed filet mignon ever?? It really doesn't get any better than this. Hip, minimalist and modern, it's definitely a bit on the pricier side, but well worth it. Went here a couple times with our clients, and co workers.
(O) Vintage (Wicker Park, IL). Grade: A
Very low key and hip wine bar. Great place to go with friends to enjoy some wine and good conversation.
(M) Art Institute of Chicago. Grade: A. The main exhibit featured paintings and posters from French artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. Other exhibits included photography of Abelardo Morrell (camera obscura photography) and a room containing miniature replica shadowboxes of living rooms and parlors all over the world from all different eras. Amazing. The museum also had a great kids section as well.
Okay now here comes the un-fun parts.
(O) Working 12+ hr days, travelling on Labor Day, and only getting two days off in almost 3 weeks in Chicago. Grade: F.
Not fun. Tired. Too much work to do. Feet hurt. Brain can't think. Try going on the 15th hour when you've barely ate and the client's trying to talk to you about something and you can't even concentrate. We were all literally hobbling by the end of the day. Multiply that by 2+ weeks.
(O). Still liking your job even after all the long days and stress, even though I occasionally felt like quitting but not really. Grade: A. Ask me in a couple months and my answer might be different. Who knows.
Okay if I have to be stuck for two and a half weeks in a city (for work), I'm glad it's in a city like Chicago, with it's gorgeous skylines and architecture and cultured neighborhoods. And the weather was perfect - sunny and breezy during the day, balmy at night.
(R) Sushi Wabi (E Randolph in Chicago, IL). Grade: A++
Good food all around, but who cares about the sushi when you have the best teriyaki glazed filet mignon ever?? It really doesn't get any better than this. Hip, minimalist and modern, it's definitely a bit on the pricier side, but well worth it. Went here a couple times with our clients, and co workers.
(O) Vintage (Wicker Park, IL). Grade: A
Very low key and hip wine bar. Great place to go with friends to enjoy some wine and good conversation.
(M) Art Institute of Chicago. Grade: A. The main exhibit featured paintings and posters from French artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. Other exhibits included photography of Abelardo Morrell (camera obscura photography) and a room containing miniature replica shadowboxes of living rooms and parlors all over the world from all different eras. Amazing. The museum also had a great kids section as well.
Okay now here comes the un-fun parts.
(O) Working 12+ hr days, travelling on Labor Day, and only getting two days off in almost 3 weeks in Chicago. Grade: F.
Not fun. Tired. Too much work to do. Feet hurt. Brain can't think. Try going on the 15th hour when you've barely ate and the client's trying to talk to you about something and you can't even concentrate. We were all literally hobbling by the end of the day. Multiply that by 2+ weeks.
(O). Still liking your job even after all the long days and stress, even though I occasionally felt like quitting but not really. Grade: A. Ask me in a couple months and my answer might be different. Who knows.
(TV) Arrested Development. (FOX, Monday @ 8 pm) Grade: A
Thoughts: Love this show but I think it is hard to get into if you have not watched the other seasons. I wonder if they will make it through third season.
(TV) How I Met Your Mother. (CBS, Monday @ 8:30 pm) Grade: B
Thoughts: I can't believe I'm watching a CBS show but I love Alyson Hannigan, Jason Segal who played Nick on Freaks and Geeks and of course the N.P.H - Neil Patrick Harris. It is an alright sitcom, nothing amazing.
(TV) Prison Break. (Fox, Monday @ 9pm) Grade: A-
Thoughts: One of the best shows this season. It is completely unbelievable but it grabs your attention and keeps you involved until the end. It is no 24 but good enough for me.
(TV) Gilmore Girls. (WB, Tuesday @ 8 pm) Grade: C+
Thoughts: I think this show should end soon. They are running out of things to do. The "new" Rory is super annoying and the only reason I continue to watch is for Luke and Lorelai.
(TV) My Name is Earl. (NBC, Tuesday @ 9 pm) Grade: C
Thoughts: I've only seen one ep so maybe I will rate it higher but I found it just alright. It is a bit too WT to be on NBC but whatevers.
(TV) The Office. (NBC, Tuesday @ 9:30 pm) Grade: B+
Thoughts: I forgot how funny this show is. I missed the season opener but the one ep I did watch was pretty good.
(TV) Veronica Mars. (UPN, Wednesday @ 9 pm) Grade: A
Thoughts: I love love this show. It is Nancy Drew but in a kick ass way. I wish more people would watch it but alas no. Oh well. I hope it doesn't get cancelled soon.
Shows I would like to watch but don't have time:
- Grey's Anatomy
- Commander In Chief
- Night Stalker
Thoughts: Love this show but I think it is hard to get into if you have not watched the other seasons. I wonder if they will make it through third season.
(TV) How I Met Your Mother. (CBS, Monday @ 8:30 pm) Grade: B
Thoughts: I can't believe I'm watching a CBS show but I love Alyson Hannigan, Jason Segal who played Nick on Freaks and Geeks and of course the N.P.H - Neil Patrick Harris. It is an alright sitcom, nothing amazing.
(TV) Prison Break. (Fox, Monday @ 9pm) Grade: A-
Thoughts: One of the best shows this season. It is completely unbelievable but it grabs your attention and keeps you involved until the end. It is no 24 but good enough for me.
(TV) Gilmore Girls. (WB, Tuesday @ 8 pm) Grade: C+
Thoughts: I think this show should end soon. They are running out of things to do. The "new" Rory is super annoying and the only reason I continue to watch is for Luke and Lorelai.
(TV) My Name is Earl. (NBC, Tuesday @ 9 pm) Grade: C
Thoughts: I've only seen one ep so maybe I will rate it higher but I found it just alright. It is a bit too WT to be on NBC but whatevers.
(TV) The Office. (NBC, Tuesday @ 9:30 pm) Grade: B+
Thoughts: I forgot how funny this show is. I missed the season opener but the one ep I did watch was pretty good.
(TV) Veronica Mars. (UPN, Wednesday @ 9 pm) Grade: A
Thoughts: I love love this show. It is Nancy Drew but in a kick ass way. I wish more people would watch it but alas no. Oh well. I hope it doesn't get cancelled soon.
Shows I would like to watch but don't have time:
- Grey's Anatomy
- Commander In Chief
- Night Stalker
Monday, October 3
The preview for this movie is online if nobody has already viewed it or seen it in the theater. Looks VERY colorful. First, there was Tolkien with his fictional version of the Biblical story in Lord of The Rings and now C.S. Lewis' (Tolkien's friend) version of the Biblical story comes out in Chronicles of Narnia.
Sunday, October 2
(M) Separate Lies. (2005, Julian Fellowes) Grade: C+
Thoughts: I wanted to like this film because 1. Tom Wilkinson and 2. Emily Watson but towards the end I was still trying figure out if there was even a point. James (Tom Wilkinson) and Anne (Emily Watson) seem like a happy couple but after a chance accident, which leads to the death of their housekeeper's husband and the discovery of Anne's affair with William Bule (Rupert Everett), their worlds are turned upside down. Tom Wilkinson gives a strong performance as a devoted yet angry husband. One thing odd about the British is their sense of pride and dignity and the need to keep up their image, much like in Asian cultures, even when everything is miserable. As for Rupert Everett, I think the man has had one too many face lifts. He use to be so dashing but now I think his face is melting off.
(M) Strictly Ballroom. (1992, Baz Luhrmann) Grade: A
Thoughts: I love this film and I always will. I think this is my third or fourth time watching this movie and I can't get enough. It is silly, funny, heart-warming, sweet, and romantic all at the same time. Beginner level dancer Fran (Tara Morice) challenges Scott Hastings (Paul Mercurio), a professional ballroom dancer in need of a new dance partner, to teach her to dance and in the process become partners for the biggest ballroom dancing competition in Australia. Oh and of course they fall in love. I enjoy the style of directing Baz Luhrmann uses; it is very theatrical and over the top. Much like in Romeo and Juliet and Moulin Rouge, there is plently of catchy tunes and dancing. Did I mention I love this movie?
(M) The Notebook. (2004, Nick Cassavetes) Grade: C+
Thoughts: I'm actually surprised I rated this same as Separate Lies. Why did I watch this you ask? Well mainly because I've heard from many friends that after watching this movie they cried for hours and it got me thinking - "Could a film be that sad and heart wrenching that you would actually cry hours after the film had ended?" Conclusion: No. However you will tear up because even I did that. Noah Calhoun (Ryan Gosling) meets Allie Hamilton (Rachel McAdams). Boy and girl fall in love, boy loses girl because he is from the wrong side of the tracks, girl meets rich guy and becomes engaged, boy finds girl and rekindle old love, girl leaves rich guy and marries boy. No surprises there, pretty straight forward. The twist though lies in Duke aka Noah (James Garner) and Allie (Gena Rowlands), the old version, and how Allie needs to be reminded of their love because she has dementia. One of my favorite scenes, in a comical way, was when young Allie is screaming to young Noah that it was suppose to be over because it was 7 years now and they both had moved on but Noah screams it was never over and it still is not over and runs up to her and they start making out. I love that scene because he says it like he is going to punch her in the face out of rage but instead it is out of crazed love. Just some freaking funny stuff. Oh and did I mention it was pouring rain to make is even more dramatic. Man that is some funny stuff.
Thoughts: I wanted to like this film because 1. Tom Wilkinson and 2. Emily Watson but towards the end I was still trying figure out if there was even a point. James (Tom Wilkinson) and Anne (Emily Watson) seem like a happy couple but after a chance accident, which leads to the death of their housekeeper's husband and the discovery of Anne's affair with William Bule (Rupert Everett), their worlds are turned upside down. Tom Wilkinson gives a strong performance as a devoted yet angry husband. One thing odd about the British is their sense of pride and dignity and the need to keep up their image, much like in Asian cultures, even when everything is miserable. As for Rupert Everett, I think the man has had one too many face lifts. He use to be so dashing but now I think his face is melting off.
(M) Strictly Ballroom. (1992, Baz Luhrmann) Grade: A
Thoughts: I love this film and I always will. I think this is my third or fourth time watching this movie and I can't get enough. It is silly, funny, heart-warming, sweet, and romantic all at the same time. Beginner level dancer Fran (Tara Morice) challenges Scott Hastings (Paul Mercurio), a professional ballroom dancer in need of a new dance partner, to teach her to dance and in the process become partners for the biggest ballroom dancing competition in Australia. Oh and of course they fall in love. I enjoy the style of directing Baz Luhrmann uses; it is very theatrical and over the top. Much like in Romeo and Juliet and Moulin Rouge, there is plently of catchy tunes and dancing. Did I mention I love this movie?
(M) The Notebook. (2004, Nick Cassavetes) Grade: C+
Thoughts: I'm actually surprised I rated this same as Separate Lies. Why did I watch this you ask? Well mainly because I've heard from many friends that after watching this movie they cried for hours and it got me thinking - "Could a film be that sad and heart wrenching that you would actually cry hours after the film had ended?" Conclusion: No. However you will tear up because even I did that. Noah Calhoun (Ryan Gosling) meets Allie Hamilton (Rachel McAdams). Boy and girl fall in love, boy loses girl because he is from the wrong side of the tracks, girl meets rich guy and becomes engaged, boy finds girl and rekindle old love, girl leaves rich guy and marries boy. No surprises there, pretty straight forward. The twist though lies in Duke aka Noah (James Garner) and Allie (Gena Rowlands), the old version, and how Allie needs to be reminded of their love because she has dementia. One of my favorite scenes, in a comical way, was when young Allie is screaming to young Noah that it was suppose to be over because it was 7 years now and they both had moved on but Noah screams it was never over and it still is not over and runs up to her and they start making out. I love that scene because he says it like he is going to punch her in the face out of rage but instead it is out of crazed love. Just some freaking funny stuff. Oh and did I mention it was pouring rain to make is even more dramatic. Man that is some funny stuff.
(M) Capote (2005, Bennett Miller) Grade: B+
Philip Seymor Hoffman is a great character actor. And he really loses himself in the role of writer Truman Capote. Set during the research and writing of In Cold Blood, the film is an interesting analysis of the journalistic dilemna between being a nonparticipant observer (or at least trying to be) and becoming involved in the research, letting it perhaps color your view. Capote does build an intense relationship with his subject but never abandons his main goal: his book. Capote should get some Oscar buzz.
(A) You Could Have It So Much Better (Oct. 3, Franz Ferdinand) Grade: A-
These Scots know how to make a debut. Their sophomore effort is equally satisfying, not disappointing the Franz faithful. But its sound is certainly less catchy and less heavy on hooks or dance beats. Kinks and Beatles come to mind on such tracks as “Eleanor Put Your Boots On.” Pleasing to hear something not exactly the same as the first album.
Philip Seymor Hoffman is a great character actor. And he really loses himself in the role of writer Truman Capote. Set during the research and writing of In Cold Blood, the film is an interesting analysis of the journalistic dilemna between being a nonparticipant observer (or at least trying to be) and becoming involved in the research, letting it perhaps color your view. Capote does build an intense relationship with his subject but never abandons his main goal: his book. Capote should get some Oscar buzz.
(A) You Could Have It So Much Better (Oct. 3, Franz Ferdinand) Grade: A-
These Scots know how to make a debut. Their sophomore effort is equally satisfying, not disappointing the Franz faithful. But its sound is certainly less catchy and less heavy on hooks or dance beats. Kinks and Beatles come to mind on such tracks as “Eleanor Put Your Boots On.” Pleasing to hear something not exactly the same as the first album.
(O) X-Men Legends II: Rise of Apocalypse (on GameCube, 2005) grade: A
I'm addicted to this game. I just got it like 4 days ago, and I can't stop playing it. I like to see my team of X-men grow stronger and gain more powers. Right now I'm using Wolverine, Storm, Jean Grey, and Cyclops (the typical X-men). It's really fun to play and very engaging. I'm not much for fighting games cos I never learn the combos and just end up pushing random buttons, but i've managed to master the moves for this game. Highly recommended to anyone who enjoys video games.
(TV) The War At Home (Fox Sunday Nights) Grade: A
Out of all the new shows this season, this one is my FAVORITE! (side note: it's the only new show I've seen this season). NONE THE LESS... I love this show, but I've only seen two episodes. It is on between The Simpsons and Family Guy which is PERFECT because the only other time I turn on TV is for The Office on Tuesday nights. I hope this show stays because it's great!
Side Question... Has ANYONE seen this movie:
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)