The whole reason I began this blog was for the sole purpose of talking about movies. Reviewing them, looking at what's coming into theaters, going back to films on DVD.........that was fun to me. And looking back at my last posts, I haven't even touched movies in a while. Now unfortunately I haven't been to the theaters since "The Dark Knight", and there really hasn't been anything good to look forward to in the theaters...........but luckily I've got my stack of DVDs to fall back on. And after a recent surge of watching them, I actually have quite a few I could look at. And by "quite a few" I mean nine of them. And yes, I'm going to do them all in the first "quick-shoot" review on this blog. Don't worry, there will be enough here so you get the idea of what's been good and what isn't. Let's get it started:
Push- Some unique ideas and good visuals give this movie some credibility. Actors who stand out are Djimon Hounsou and Dakota Fanning, while the rest are merely average. The romance seen falters, and the ending leaves something to be desired. A good movie for those looking for mindless action, but don't expect powerhouse performances or drama.
I Am Legend- Will Smith carries this film in good fashion, channelling some of Tom Hanks from "Castaway." The movie suffers towards the end with some sudden storytelling, but this movie depicts the possible "last man on Earth" in a great way. Also great for anyone who loves Will Smith......no one could've done it better.
The Bourne Ultimatum- Matt Damon does it again in the third of the "Jason Bourne" series. Good action and drama keep this one going, and it's good to know that this might not be completely over yet. Some might get lost if they haven't seen the first two films, so unfortunately it's a prerequisite that you see "Identity" and "Supremacy".......but you won't be disappointed either.
Casino Royale- The new legacy of James Bond has begun in style with this one. Daniel Craig brings us what Bond is really supposed to be, stealing the show. Although the movie can be a pro-advertisement for Texas Hold 'Em, the action is great, the drama is great, and we can all begin liking James Bond again. You can also continue that with....
Quantum of Solace- More action fuels this one, and a good story too. Craig continues to carry his great abilities to play Bond, although the supporting cast may not help compliment compared to "Casino Royale." Still, action-enthusiasts will get a kick out of this one as this new series is finding its stride, and I'm sure this will continue in the next film.
Watchmen- Although it runs incredibly long, and defies your expectations as being a comic book-to-film with lots of action, this move is a strong one once you get through the first hour and continue through the next two. Strong performance for almost the entire cast (aside from Matthew Goode sadly, who played the most pivotal role in the story), and one of best stories ever told, this movie can get your attention with its character developments and a phenomenal last hour.
The Departed- The Best Picture winner in 2007 deserved it and then some. One of the best in the new wave of gangster movies, it's got everything: story, drama, and acting. I'll go so far as to say Jack Nicholson and Matt Damon deserved nominations for their acting in this one. This is one of those few films that I can say most any movie-goer (besides young kids because of the obvious R-rating) will thoroughly enjoy.
Burn After Reading- For a movie claiming to be a laugh-out-loud comedy, this one will throw you off. Other than some funny character moments, there's more of an ironic story here. Good characters played by the whole cast, but the story leaves something to be desired. Good for anyone interested in any of the many actors in this one. Otherwise, don't expect much else.
Munich- If you want something different in a spy movie, go for this one. Some interesting ideas combined with some of the factual events it's based on, you get a good film by well-known director Steven Spielberg. Intense drama, and some good performances by a surprise cast will get you into this one.
I know I usually end my reviews with some quote from the film, but since there are nine reviews here, I'll pick just one and let you guess which movie it's from:
"I'm not a comic book villain. Do you seriously think I would explain my master stroke to you if there were even the slightest possibility you could affect the outcome? I triggered it 35 minutes ago."
I'll give you a hint: at the time of the original story's release, it led to one of the biggest plot twists ever.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Coming Attractions: Xbox 360
I recently completed "Batman: Arkham Asylum" that took many days to complete, but now have found myself in the unfavorable position of not having a game waiting for my attention. I mean sure, I could go back to any of the other games I own for another go-around; but I need a new experience. I'll have to wait until Christmas time to get my video game fill, but after doing some research I realized I have quite a few games to look forward to. Let's go through them one by one and see which ones will have me attached to my couch for a while.
Tekken 6- My favorite fighting game franchise has its next installment coming out in just over a week. For me, the game has been simple: beat it with every single character to unlock the secret ones, then beat the game with them as well, and then play through it's action mode just once. Believe me, this does take some time, but never gets dull.
Star Wars: The Force Unleashed- Wait, this game has been out for some time now. Plus, I already own it for the Playstation 2. But hold on, this game coming out is different. Yes, it's the Ultimate Sith Edition we're talking about here. Along with the original game you get new levels in which to test out your awesome Force powers.......and I'll get to see the best version of the original.
Assassin's Creed II-The first game showed tons of potential, and whether you thought the first was phenomenal or just average, you'll no doubt be impressed with this one. Aside from the usual tasks, you'll be able to do much more, along with new acrobatic moves, weapons, skills, and side missions. This is one of those games that could keep you busy if you insist on remembering everything (those who've played the first game know what I'm talking about).
Bioshock 2- I know this game won't be out until February of '10, but this one is worth mentioning. The first game was critically acclaimed and a smash hit, including in my eyes. The story continues, but also comes with one important addition: multi-player. Now you'll be ablt to take on others with weapons and plasmids however you see fit. Already I've seen some incredible action sequences and gameplay that will blow you away.
These games are the cream of the crop. Probable will be great hits and will definitely find their way in my collection. Until then, I've got some Playstation 2 games that can give me a run for my money. Let's see, what can the next post be about? You know what, I leave the next one as a surprise. Now all you have to do is follow these simple words: entertain yourselves now.
Tekken 6- My favorite fighting game franchise has its next installment coming out in just over a week. For me, the game has been simple: beat it with every single character to unlock the secret ones, then beat the game with them as well, and then play through it's action mode just once. Believe me, this does take some time, but never gets dull.
Star Wars: The Force Unleashed- Wait, this game has been out for some time now. Plus, I already own it for the Playstation 2. But hold on, this game coming out is different. Yes, it's the Ultimate Sith Edition we're talking about here. Along with the original game you get new levels in which to test out your awesome Force powers.......and I'll get to see the best version of the original.
Assassin's Creed II-The first game showed tons of potential, and whether you thought the first was phenomenal or just average, you'll no doubt be impressed with this one. Aside from the usual tasks, you'll be able to do much more, along with new acrobatic moves, weapons, skills, and side missions. This is one of those games that could keep you busy if you insist on remembering everything (those who've played the first game know what I'm talking about).
Bioshock 2- I know this game won't be out until February of '10, but this one is worth mentioning. The first game was critically acclaimed and a smash hit, including in my eyes. The story continues, but also comes with one important addition: multi-player. Now you'll be ablt to take on others with weapons and plasmids however you see fit. Already I've seen some incredible action sequences and gameplay that will blow you away.
These games are the cream of the crop. Probable will be great hits and will definitely find their way in my collection. Until then, I've got some Playstation 2 games that can give me a run for my money. Let's see, what can the next post be about? You know what, I leave the next one as a surprise. Now all you have to do is follow these simple words: entertain yourselves now.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Sunday Night "Animation Domination"
Wow, seems like ages ago that this blog was created for me........also seems like ages since I've actually put a post on here. Now that I have full Internet service back, I think a post is due. Now, my time offline and at home has given me a chance to sort of "explore" the types of entertainment I look at, and get some really good insights into it. And what's strange is that insight comes up almost instantly when I see something new. Kind of a "gift"..........not a really cool one like a super power would be, but something nifty. So, I thought I'd take advantage of this and look at the busiest TV night here at home.
For those who may actually be clueless as to what's on Fox Sunday from 8pm to 10pm, there's a series of four animated shows on; three of which are from the creative mind of one man, but championed by a long-time veteran of cartoons. "The Simpsons" leads the charge, before Seth MacFarlane takes over with "The Cleveland Show", "Family Guy", and "American Dad."
I'll start with newest member: "The Cleveland Show." Replacing the recently retired series "King of the Hill" (which I personally thought was way overdue), this spin-off of "Family Guy" character Cleveland Brown sets him up with his own family and setting. So far the show has only aired two episodes, but I can see how it fits in with the other two shows right away. There's shock value, moments of wit, and lots of far-out stories. While strong at first glance, you can see more similarities that don't help it stand apart. Same animation, same "Family Guy" cut-away gags, similar family layout..........for those who know the characters of all three shows see that right away. For me, "The Cleveland Show" has made me laugh, and serves as great filler between the other shows, but hopefully they can stay strong so that they don't end up like "Parks and Recreation" did for me on Thursday nights.
"American Dad" gets the last laughs of the evening, and has managed to be the saving grace from the failures of "Family Guy" last year. While that dynamic has changed these last couple of weeks, "American Dad" has still been able to deliver. Other than the family layout, the show has managed to strike on its own. For me personally, the setup of the characters and stories are closely related to my own likes and interests, so it speaks to me more. For example, the story from the premiere episode followed a "Rambo" theme.......and Rambo is the bomb! (Literally sometimes, he uses explosives on enemies.....you've seen the movies, you know it's true). Therefore, this show gets my vote of confidence.
"Family Guy," the most notorious of the line-up, almost became a lost cause after having only 3 episodes from last season as being worthwhile. At the start of this season, they're 2 for 2. That's a relief. The show has managed to survive the repetitive humor and recycling of old jokes, and started off with some entirely new ideas. The premiere alone had me laughing so hard that the episode probably ranks as one of if not THE best. And of course the very next episode went on to push the lines of serious topics that they just love to do. And it was still hilarious. So as far as I'm concerned, "Family Guy" has managed a comeback, and need to keep this momentum going. My wife and I watched this show during our first date, so it's been a sort of obligation for me to watch. I don't want that ruined.
Ah, at last we get to the king of kings when it comes to animated series: "The Simpsons." What can I say? The show has an established pattern that even just the casual fans know about: the minor characters can be funnier than the Simpsons family, the episdoes involving Lisa aren't really that good, and Homer is probably the best animated character of all time. And after 20 years, the show can still deliver the laughs. One-liners, visuals, and familiar-but-refreshing stories continue week-in and week-out. That's all we need for a good start to a night of couch potato-ing (a pasttime Homer Simpson probably invented......I salute you!)
Give you enough to swallow? (Get your head out of the gutter please........). There's plenty more TV stuff I could fill your brain with, but I'll save that for a later post. My next post could be about most anything. Just so you have an idea as to what I've found entertaining, my next post could be a visit to Comic Book Land (with info on the Blackest Night storyline, or even a look at Watchmen, the book AND the movie), a stop at Video Game Castle (Batman: Arkham Asylum I've been playing non-stop, or I might give some expectations for future releases), or a rousing spin around Movie Park (got some new DVDs of movies to review, and the regular look at Coming Attractions). Whoa, the Entertainment Universe is a lot bigger than you thought, hunh? Guess the next post might only cover a tiny spectrum of it. But hey, there's plenty of other spectrums you can find out there until then. Get your reading glasses, game controllers, and couch cushions ready, because it's all on you now.
For those who may actually be clueless as to what's on Fox Sunday from 8pm to 10pm, there's a series of four animated shows on; three of which are from the creative mind of one man, but championed by a long-time veteran of cartoons. "The Simpsons" leads the charge, before Seth MacFarlane takes over with "The Cleveland Show", "Family Guy", and "American Dad."
I'll start with newest member: "The Cleveland Show." Replacing the recently retired series "King of the Hill" (which I personally thought was way overdue), this spin-off of "Family Guy" character Cleveland Brown sets him up with his own family and setting. So far the show has only aired two episodes, but I can see how it fits in with the other two shows right away. There's shock value, moments of wit, and lots of far-out stories. While strong at first glance, you can see more similarities that don't help it stand apart. Same animation, same "Family Guy" cut-away gags, similar family layout..........for those who know the characters of all three shows see that right away. For me, "The Cleveland Show" has made me laugh, and serves as great filler between the other shows, but hopefully they can stay strong so that they don't end up like "Parks and Recreation" did for me on Thursday nights.
"American Dad" gets the last laughs of the evening, and has managed to be the saving grace from the failures of "Family Guy" last year. While that dynamic has changed these last couple of weeks, "American Dad" has still been able to deliver. Other than the family layout, the show has managed to strike on its own. For me personally, the setup of the characters and stories are closely related to my own likes and interests, so it speaks to me more. For example, the story from the premiere episode followed a "Rambo" theme.......and Rambo is the bomb! (Literally sometimes, he uses explosives on enemies.....you've seen the movies, you know it's true). Therefore, this show gets my vote of confidence.
"Family Guy," the most notorious of the line-up, almost became a lost cause after having only 3 episodes from last season as being worthwhile. At the start of this season, they're 2 for 2. That's a relief. The show has managed to survive the repetitive humor and recycling of old jokes, and started off with some entirely new ideas. The premiere alone had me laughing so hard that the episode probably ranks as one of if not THE best. And of course the very next episode went on to push the lines of serious topics that they just love to do. And it was still hilarious. So as far as I'm concerned, "Family Guy" has managed a comeback, and need to keep this momentum going. My wife and I watched this show during our first date, so it's been a sort of obligation for me to watch. I don't want that ruined.
Ah, at last we get to the king of kings when it comes to animated series: "The Simpsons." What can I say? The show has an established pattern that even just the casual fans know about: the minor characters can be funnier than the Simpsons family, the episdoes involving Lisa aren't really that good, and Homer is probably the best animated character of all time. And after 20 years, the show can still deliver the laughs. One-liners, visuals, and familiar-but-refreshing stories continue week-in and week-out. That's all we need for a good start to a night of couch potato-ing (a pasttime Homer Simpson probably invented......I salute you!)
Give you enough to swallow? (Get your head out of the gutter please........). There's plenty more TV stuff I could fill your brain with, but I'll save that for a later post. My next post could be about most anything. Just so you have an idea as to what I've found entertaining, my next post could be a visit to Comic Book Land (with info on the Blackest Night storyline, or even a look at Watchmen, the book AND the movie), a stop at Video Game Castle (Batman: Arkham Asylum I've been playing non-stop, or I might give some expectations for future releases), or a rousing spin around Movie Park (got some new DVDs of movies to review, and the regular look at Coming Attractions). Whoa, the Entertainment Universe is a lot bigger than you thought, hunh? Guess the next post might only cover a tiny spectrum of it. But hey, there's plenty of other spectrums you can find out there until then. Get your reading glasses, game controllers, and couch cushions ready, because it's all on you now.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Oh Happy Day...UFC 100
The most exciting fight card of the year happened just last night. UFC 100 gave us not one, but TWO title fights, a bout between the recent "The Ultimate Fighter" coaches, and a showcase of some of the UFC's top talent. I had been amped up for this event for many months now. Before I highlight the fights, I do want to congratulate Chuck Liddell and "Mask" from TapOut for their induction into the UFC Hall of Fame the night before. Like I always say, "There's always room for the legends."
I'll actually start with the fight that was shown last during the event because of how the title fights went: Jon Fitch vs. Paulo Thiago. Thiago's last fight was a surprise knockout against favorite Josh Kosheck. Fitch has been working his way back up after losing his title fight to Georges St. Pierre, and won his last fight. Thiago wasn't expected to win, but Fitch even had problems with him in the first round. Thiago worked for submissions the entire round, and Fitch didn't look good. But the last two rounds saw Fitch gain the upper hand throughout, and ended up getting the unanimous decision. Good win for Fitch, good show of skill by Thiago.....maybe he's no flash in the pan after all. Up first on the actual main card was a middleweight fight between Alan Belcher and Yoshihiro Akiyama. Belcher was on an upswing after a couple of wins, while Akiyama was a promising new talent with an impressive 12-1 record. The fight was back and forth, but it was apparent that Akiyama was getting the better of the exhanges, and a couple of well-timed takedowns earned him enough points to get the split decision victory. Belcher was upset, but myself and everyone watching the fights with me agreed that Akiyama earned the decision.
Before I get to the three main fights of the main card, I'll just run through the undercard. Shannon Gugerty defeated Matt Grice with a guillotine choke in the first round of what was supposed to be a close and exciting fight. Tom Lawlor's guillotine choke win over CB Dolloway in the first round was the upset of the night for sure. Dolloway should be really humbled now I'm sure. Dong Hyun Kim, who I've been watching with much interest, won a one-sided decision over TJ Grant, continueing his climb up the welterweight rankings. Jon Jones got his first UFC finish with the third guillotine choke of the night against Jake O'Brien in round two. And in what I thought was very disappointing result, Mark Coleman got a unanimous decision win over Stephan Bonnar. Now, I'm a little upset with this because Bonnar was supposed to be a promising fighter, and after two losses in a row lately, he was a favorite in this one because of how Coleman looked in his last fight. Also, Coleman's strength is his takedowns, and Bonnar, who's had problems with these in the past, did nothing to correct that. So now, he's almost likely to get released, and Coleman, who's unfortunately way past his prime, will get to stick around.
Now, the highlight of the night for me was the middleweight fight between Dan Henderson and Michael Bisping. When I heard before the fight that Bisping was going to look for the knockout on Henderson, I knew without a doubt the Henderson would be the inevitable winner. And now there was a chance that we would get a knockout finish. I was more than right. Throughout the first round Bisping kept circling to Henderson's right side. Henderson has one of the hardest right hands ever seen. Even after Bisping's cornermen yelled at him for what he was doing, he continued to move the same way in round two. He payed for it when Henderson connected with his right, and even though Bisping was already out, Henderson came down with a forearm shot that looked like it could've broken Bisping's jaw. It was a clean, then it was a brutal finish. Easily my favorite knockout of the year.
We then got the first title fight between welterweight champ Georges St. Pierre and challenger Thiago Alves. It was funny how the cdommentators were saying that Alves would be the stronger stand-up fighter, and had excellent takedown defense. St. Pierre proved both points wrong. He took down Alves at least seven out of nine attempts, and even standing St. Pierre was able to pick away at Alves while setting up for his takedowns. And he continued to do so even after he apparantly tore a groin muscle in the third round. This led to St. Pierre retaining his title with a unanimous victory win.
The main event to determine the undisputed heavyweight champion was last: Brock Lesnar vs. Frank Mir. There was some trash talk between both fighters, and Lesnar was looking to avenge his loss to Mir in his first UFC fight. Even when they stod face-to-face in the octagon, Lesnar refused to touch gloves with Mir. Then the fight was on. Lesnar got Mir down to the ground, and stayed on top of while he pummeled away throughout the entire first round. Mir's face was already tenderized pretty good. The second round saw the same, only this time Lesnar got better control of Mir, and pummeled away mercilessly until the ref had to stop the fight by technical knockout. Unfortunately, Lesnar's big victory was ruined by what he did immediately after. He got in Mir's face as he was getting up. When the crowd responded with boos, he gave them the middlefinger on both hands. In his talk with Joe Rogan (who's still a ridiculous commentator as any in case you needed an update on that), Lesnar berated a major UFC sponser, and basically made a lot of comments that weren't exactly sportsmanlike. And that was how the night virtually ended. I know after the event Lesnar made a public apology for his actions, but I'm sure he lost a lot of fans for what he did, despite the fact that he's become an unstoppable force in the UFC.
There you have it. Despite the drama and disappointments of several fighters, we got one of the most entertaining UFC events that was promised. I'll never forget the incredible highlights, and display by some of my favorite fighters in the UFC. I guess down the road I'll have to do a post on my favorite and hated fighters in the UFC (and complain about Joe Rogan too). Until the next exciting UFC event (UFC 101: Declaration featuring lighweight champion BJ Penn vs. challenger Kenny Florian and the superfight between middleweight champion Anderson Silva vs. Forrest Griffin at light heavyweight.........I'm drooling already), I'll have to find something entertaining.....maybe a video game......or a movie........or a book, comic or otherwise.......or a good TV show. Hey, now you have some suggestions too. You know what to do.
I'll actually start with the fight that was shown last during the event because of how the title fights went: Jon Fitch vs. Paulo Thiago. Thiago's last fight was a surprise knockout against favorite Josh Kosheck. Fitch has been working his way back up after losing his title fight to Georges St. Pierre, and won his last fight. Thiago wasn't expected to win, but Fitch even had problems with him in the first round. Thiago worked for submissions the entire round, and Fitch didn't look good. But the last two rounds saw Fitch gain the upper hand throughout, and ended up getting the unanimous decision. Good win for Fitch, good show of skill by Thiago.....maybe he's no flash in the pan after all. Up first on the actual main card was a middleweight fight between Alan Belcher and Yoshihiro Akiyama. Belcher was on an upswing after a couple of wins, while Akiyama was a promising new talent with an impressive 12-1 record. The fight was back and forth, but it was apparent that Akiyama was getting the better of the exhanges, and a couple of well-timed takedowns earned him enough points to get the split decision victory. Belcher was upset, but myself and everyone watching the fights with me agreed that Akiyama earned the decision.
Before I get to the three main fights of the main card, I'll just run through the undercard. Shannon Gugerty defeated Matt Grice with a guillotine choke in the first round of what was supposed to be a close and exciting fight. Tom Lawlor's guillotine choke win over CB Dolloway in the first round was the upset of the night for sure. Dolloway should be really humbled now I'm sure. Dong Hyun Kim, who I've been watching with much interest, won a one-sided decision over TJ Grant, continueing his climb up the welterweight rankings. Jon Jones got his first UFC finish with the third guillotine choke of the night against Jake O'Brien in round two. And in what I thought was very disappointing result, Mark Coleman got a unanimous decision win over Stephan Bonnar. Now, I'm a little upset with this because Bonnar was supposed to be a promising fighter, and after two losses in a row lately, he was a favorite in this one because of how Coleman looked in his last fight. Also, Coleman's strength is his takedowns, and Bonnar, who's had problems with these in the past, did nothing to correct that. So now, he's almost likely to get released, and Coleman, who's unfortunately way past his prime, will get to stick around.
Now, the highlight of the night for me was the middleweight fight between Dan Henderson and Michael Bisping. When I heard before the fight that Bisping was going to look for the knockout on Henderson, I knew without a doubt the Henderson would be the inevitable winner. And now there was a chance that we would get a knockout finish. I was more than right. Throughout the first round Bisping kept circling to Henderson's right side. Henderson has one of the hardest right hands ever seen. Even after Bisping's cornermen yelled at him for what he was doing, he continued to move the same way in round two. He payed for it when Henderson connected with his right, and even though Bisping was already out, Henderson came down with a forearm shot that looked like it could've broken Bisping's jaw. It was a clean, then it was a brutal finish. Easily my favorite knockout of the year.
We then got the first title fight between welterweight champ Georges St. Pierre and challenger Thiago Alves. It was funny how the cdommentators were saying that Alves would be the stronger stand-up fighter, and had excellent takedown defense. St. Pierre proved both points wrong. He took down Alves at least seven out of nine attempts, and even standing St. Pierre was able to pick away at Alves while setting up for his takedowns. And he continued to do so even after he apparantly tore a groin muscle in the third round. This led to St. Pierre retaining his title with a unanimous victory win.
The main event to determine the undisputed heavyweight champion was last: Brock Lesnar vs. Frank Mir. There was some trash talk between both fighters, and Lesnar was looking to avenge his loss to Mir in his first UFC fight. Even when they stod face-to-face in the octagon, Lesnar refused to touch gloves with Mir. Then the fight was on. Lesnar got Mir down to the ground, and stayed on top of while he pummeled away throughout the entire first round. Mir's face was already tenderized pretty good. The second round saw the same, only this time Lesnar got better control of Mir, and pummeled away mercilessly until the ref had to stop the fight by technical knockout. Unfortunately, Lesnar's big victory was ruined by what he did immediately after. He got in Mir's face as he was getting up. When the crowd responded with boos, he gave them the middlefinger on both hands. In his talk with Joe Rogan (who's still a ridiculous commentator as any in case you needed an update on that), Lesnar berated a major UFC sponser, and basically made a lot of comments that weren't exactly sportsmanlike. And that was how the night virtually ended. I know after the event Lesnar made a public apology for his actions, but I'm sure he lost a lot of fans for what he did, despite the fact that he's become an unstoppable force in the UFC.
There you have it. Despite the drama and disappointments of several fighters, we got one of the most entertaining UFC events that was promised. I'll never forget the incredible highlights, and display by some of my favorite fighters in the UFC. I guess down the road I'll have to do a post on my favorite and hated fighters in the UFC (and complain about Joe Rogan too). Until the next exciting UFC event (UFC 101: Declaration featuring lighweight champion BJ Penn vs. challenger Kenny Florian and the superfight between middleweight champion Anderson Silva vs. Forrest Griffin at light heavyweight.........I'm drooling already), I'll have to find something entertaining.....maybe a video game......or a movie........or a book, comic or otherwise.......or a good TV show. Hey, now you have some suggestions too. You know what to do.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Whassupwitdat Reality TV?
Considering all the media hype around Jon and Kate Gosselin from "Jon And Kate Plus 8," I thought I'd look at the idea of reality television as a whole. Probably half of what you find on TV now is some type of reality show where they either follow "interesting" people around, put people in competition with eachother, or let viewers decide the fate of the show's stars. I guess the whole point is to see real live people similar to ourselves so that we can relate to them and experience their lives.........what kind of crap is that? There's some entertainment in this somewhere, but I don't see it. Some shows are compelling enough (which I'll talk about later), but too much of it gets way too out of control.
Lets start by examining the types of reality shows, and mention some of the more notorious ones. How about we begin with shows that follow real people around who have some "unique" kind of lifestyle. That's where "Jon and Kate Plus 8" fit in. Now since their train wreck story has been shoved down my throat for weeks now, I've been forced to choose a side. I choose Jon's. If you've seen any of the show, one thing is pretty clear: Kate treats Jon like dirt. And I don't want to hear that "oh, she's just a strong woman" garbage.......she's just horrible. Maybe the fame got to her or something, but all I know is I wouldn't blame Jon for doing the stuff he's accused of doing rather than see him just outright run out of there and leave his kids behind. See what being on camera all the time does to you? If Jon and Kate were smart, they would've stopped doing the show completely for the sake of their kids. Unfortunately the paparazzi are cockroaches that are a pain to get rid of, so all you can do is "prevent" them from getting into your lives. TLC sucks now too because their channel is supposed to be about learning, and they feel the need to show the break up of this huge family........I think TLC really stands for "Turning Life to Crap."
What other shows fall into the above category? Well, I can't think of specific names, but what about the ones that follow the lives of certain celebrities that we should even give a damn about? Kathy Griffin, Tori Spelling, Denise Richards, Tom Sizemore......these people are entertainers and I'd rather see them using their "talent" to entertain me rather than what they do on a daily basis. I outright don't care. If they're not acting, they don't need to get paid for any more exposure than is neccessary.
I know my wife will beat me for this, but who else has had it with the whole "Real Housewives" series? Orange County, New York, Atlanta, New Jersey........unless you're working two jobs to support your family, live in a modest home, and don't begrudge your friends for saying the truth about you behind your back, you are NOT a "real housewife." These are overly rich women who are stuck up and plastic surgeried to high hell (I'll make up words with the best of them), and while a couple are good to look at I could care less about. Even though they seem to live these rich lives and get whatever they want, you have to see that they aren't the happiest people out there, and why would we want that depressing fact shoved in our face?
OK, I'd better move on. Let's start with the reality competition shows. "American Idol," "The Bachelor," "The Bachelorette," and not to mention the really horrid ones on VH1 (Flavor of Love, Rock of Love, I Love New York.....notice that these shows have multiple seasons? Yeah, like they know anything about love)........how have these all gone on for so long? Not even half the winners on "AI" have had a real career after winnng the show, most of the couples from the "Bachelor" shows don't last.......why are these shows still on? They accomplish nothing in the end. Other than the occassional entertainment from the inevitable losers on these shows (My rule is watch the first 4 episodes, then stop watching), you can wait until the news reports on who wins these shows. Then wait until the pointless update on how their debut album had abysmal sale/how their relationship is on the rocks/how the celebrity has done nothing after winning the dancing show. That pretty well covers this whole section, although I will ask why would VH1 try to find love for the dirtiest celebrities or half-celebrities that you wouldn't want to share a toilet with?
Now I've come up with a special category for certain reality shows out there: the "fake" reality shows. These are shows that you might think are in one of the two categories above, but watching it long enough makes you think otherwise and regret the weeks you've wasted keeping up with the show. Let's start with a recent one: "The Celebrity Apprentice." The first season was interesting that I started watching season 2. Not even halfway through, I knew something was up. Celebrities got fired for things unrelated to the task of the show, while ones who should've been fired early on were kept around for way too long. Then the finale between Joan Rivers and Annie Duke. Even though Annie earned 3 times the money Joan did, Joan Rivers won. What the......? Pierce Morgan beat Trace Adkins last season because he earned more money.......when did that change? Can someone say "fixed?" This is worse than the few attempts the Fox channel made where the end seemed overly fixed.
Another show that follows a celebrity around is "Gene Simmon's Family Jewels." If you've watched the show enough, you'll notice that Gene is a pretty classy guy, loves the high life, and gets uncomfortable in certain situations........so how is it that he ends up uncomfortable in every single episode? Whether it's his own scheme or someone else's, he looks like an idiot every single time. Are you kidding me? I'll have to check the credits to see if they list writers on it. There's no way this all happens by accident.
OK, I know I've villified reality TV a good amount, but I will say there are some shows that are well worth watching. I will simply list those shows, give a brief explanation as to why they're worth your time, but the show I feel is the best reality show out there will get a longer explanation. So, let's start the list:
- Dirty Jobs: I'm sure this was the first show you thought of. Educational, entertaining, and a great host in Mike Rowe make this show just plain fun to watch.
- Ice Road Truckers: While you would think seeing the same truckers every season might get out of hand, the fact that they stick them on very different ice roads every season gives you something different to watch all the time. This will catch you by surprise.
- Deadliest Catch: All you see is guys on boats catching crabs (in the ocean) season after season. What you really see are guys risky their lives for a payday, and the reality of this occupation's danger when you know that some don't make it back. It's the ultimate quest for fame outside of a gladiator fight.
Drum roll please......and the most deserving show of the title "Best Reality Show" goes to:
The Ultimate Fighter
Bet you think this is biased because I happen to be a big UFC fan. Hear me out first. What's the one common thing amongst all reality shows out there? Conflict. You see people competing for a prize families fighting about its own problems, even man vs. nature.....all that we're seeing is a fight of some sorts. People go for this sort of stuff; that's why the crap reality shows keep airing. And on all of these shows you want to see these people really go at it, real take the fight to eachother...........and it never really happens. American Idol finalists never end up being the two most deserving, and beware of that "power texting" that could screw somebody over. Bachelorette contestants never come to a real fist fight over the girl they're trying to get. Even the "slapstick" fights between the idiot drunks on "The Real World" are laughable, and never get truly resolved. Now, if you watch The Ultimate Fighter, you'll see how it works: two teams are made up of fighters, and they have a fight every single week to eliminate someone from the competition. Sure, the first parts of the episode show them just training or plain acting like morons........but then the most beautiful thing happens: they fight. These guys practically get to choose who they want to fight, and the blood can get pretty bad between them. And they go what's basically a cage, and they kick, punch, wrestle, wrench, and beat the hell out of eachother with all they got until a winner is found. Ho boy, that's the fighting you want to see! That's what you don't get anywhere else. Absolutely nowhere.
I hope this rant has clarified what reality TV is and in the end shouldn't be. I tried my very best to keep this clean as I wanted to drop the F-bomb various times throughout this post. It would've sounded better if I did, but I have to keep my heart rate at a reasonable level too. So, I hope you who have read this are a little enlightened, and now know what to look for when I say at the end of these to go find something entertaining, while I do the same. Just don't tune in to VH1 unless it's actually something music related, which is what the channel is supposed to cover in the first place.
Lets start by examining the types of reality shows, and mention some of the more notorious ones. How about we begin with shows that follow real people around who have some "unique" kind of lifestyle. That's where "Jon and Kate Plus 8" fit in. Now since their train wreck story has been shoved down my throat for weeks now, I've been forced to choose a side. I choose Jon's. If you've seen any of the show, one thing is pretty clear: Kate treats Jon like dirt. And I don't want to hear that "oh, she's just a strong woman" garbage.......she's just horrible. Maybe the fame got to her or something, but all I know is I wouldn't blame Jon for doing the stuff he's accused of doing rather than see him just outright run out of there and leave his kids behind. See what being on camera all the time does to you? If Jon and Kate were smart, they would've stopped doing the show completely for the sake of their kids. Unfortunately the paparazzi are cockroaches that are a pain to get rid of, so all you can do is "prevent" them from getting into your lives. TLC sucks now too because their channel is supposed to be about learning, and they feel the need to show the break up of this huge family........I think TLC really stands for "Turning Life to Crap."
What other shows fall into the above category? Well, I can't think of specific names, but what about the ones that follow the lives of certain celebrities that we should even give a damn about? Kathy Griffin, Tori Spelling, Denise Richards, Tom Sizemore......these people are entertainers and I'd rather see them using their "talent" to entertain me rather than what they do on a daily basis. I outright don't care. If they're not acting, they don't need to get paid for any more exposure than is neccessary.
I know my wife will beat me for this, but who else has had it with the whole "Real Housewives" series? Orange County, New York, Atlanta, New Jersey........unless you're working two jobs to support your family, live in a modest home, and don't begrudge your friends for saying the truth about you behind your back, you are NOT a "real housewife." These are overly rich women who are stuck up and plastic surgeried to high hell (I'll make up words with the best of them), and while a couple are good to look at I could care less about. Even though they seem to live these rich lives and get whatever they want, you have to see that they aren't the happiest people out there, and why would we want that depressing fact shoved in our face?
OK, I'd better move on. Let's start with the reality competition shows. "American Idol," "The Bachelor," "The Bachelorette," and not to mention the really horrid ones on VH1 (Flavor of Love, Rock of Love, I Love New York.....notice that these shows have multiple seasons? Yeah, like they know anything about love)........how have these all gone on for so long? Not even half the winners on "AI" have had a real career after winnng the show, most of the couples from the "Bachelor" shows don't last.......why are these shows still on? They accomplish nothing in the end. Other than the occassional entertainment from the inevitable losers on these shows (My rule is watch the first 4 episodes, then stop watching), you can wait until the news reports on who wins these shows. Then wait until the pointless update on how their debut album had abysmal sale/how their relationship is on the rocks/how the celebrity has done nothing after winning the dancing show. That pretty well covers this whole section, although I will ask why would VH1 try to find love for the dirtiest celebrities or half-celebrities that you wouldn't want to share a toilet with?
Now I've come up with a special category for certain reality shows out there: the "fake" reality shows. These are shows that you might think are in one of the two categories above, but watching it long enough makes you think otherwise and regret the weeks you've wasted keeping up with the show. Let's start with a recent one: "The Celebrity Apprentice." The first season was interesting that I started watching season 2. Not even halfway through, I knew something was up. Celebrities got fired for things unrelated to the task of the show, while ones who should've been fired early on were kept around for way too long. Then the finale between Joan Rivers and Annie Duke. Even though Annie earned 3 times the money Joan did, Joan Rivers won. What the......? Pierce Morgan beat Trace Adkins last season because he earned more money.......when did that change? Can someone say "fixed?" This is worse than the few attempts the Fox channel made where the end seemed overly fixed.
Another show that follows a celebrity around is "Gene Simmon's Family Jewels." If you've watched the show enough, you'll notice that Gene is a pretty classy guy, loves the high life, and gets uncomfortable in certain situations........so how is it that he ends up uncomfortable in every single episode? Whether it's his own scheme or someone else's, he looks like an idiot every single time. Are you kidding me? I'll have to check the credits to see if they list writers on it. There's no way this all happens by accident.
OK, I know I've villified reality TV a good amount, but I will say there are some shows that are well worth watching. I will simply list those shows, give a brief explanation as to why they're worth your time, but the show I feel is the best reality show out there will get a longer explanation. So, let's start the list:
- Dirty Jobs: I'm sure this was the first show you thought of. Educational, entertaining, and a great host in Mike Rowe make this show just plain fun to watch.
- Ice Road Truckers: While you would think seeing the same truckers every season might get out of hand, the fact that they stick them on very different ice roads every season gives you something different to watch all the time. This will catch you by surprise.
- Deadliest Catch: All you see is guys on boats catching crabs (in the ocean) season after season. What you really see are guys risky their lives for a payday, and the reality of this occupation's danger when you know that some don't make it back. It's the ultimate quest for fame outside of a gladiator fight.
Drum roll please......and the most deserving show of the title "Best Reality Show" goes to:
The Ultimate Fighter
Bet you think this is biased because I happen to be a big UFC fan. Hear me out first. What's the one common thing amongst all reality shows out there? Conflict. You see people competing for a prize families fighting about its own problems, even man vs. nature.....all that we're seeing is a fight of some sorts. People go for this sort of stuff; that's why the crap reality shows keep airing. And on all of these shows you want to see these people really go at it, real take the fight to eachother...........and it never really happens. American Idol finalists never end up being the two most deserving, and beware of that "power texting" that could screw somebody over. Bachelorette contestants never come to a real fist fight over the girl they're trying to get. Even the "slapstick" fights between the idiot drunks on "The Real World" are laughable, and never get truly resolved. Now, if you watch The Ultimate Fighter, you'll see how it works: two teams are made up of fighters, and they have a fight every single week to eliminate someone from the competition. Sure, the first parts of the episode show them just training or plain acting like morons........but then the most beautiful thing happens: they fight. These guys practically get to choose who they want to fight, and the blood can get pretty bad between them. And they go what's basically a cage, and they kick, punch, wrestle, wrench, and beat the hell out of eachother with all they got until a winner is found. Ho boy, that's the fighting you want to see! That's what you don't get anywhere else. Absolutely nowhere.
I hope this rant has clarified what reality TV is and in the end shouldn't be. I tried my very best to keep this clean as I wanted to drop the F-bomb various times throughout this post. It would've sounded better if I did, but I have to keep my heart rate at a reasonable level too. So, I hope you who have read this are a little enlightened, and now know what to look for when I say at the end of these to go find something entertaining, while I do the same. Just don't tune in to VH1 unless it's actually something music related, which is what the channel is supposed to cover in the first place.
Friday, June 12, 2009
What's Happened The Last Week
I guess until I come up with a really interesting one-topic post, I should just relate some of the goings-on in the last week or so of entertainment.......and I don't mean all the crap on Access Hollywood or Extra, but just the things that entertain me. Where should I begin.......
- The Ultimate Fighter Winding Down: With one episode left until the finale next Saturday, so far 3 of the 4 finalists have earned their spot on the event. Two members of Team UK are competing for the Lightweight spot, and although my initial pick made it to the finals, I'm starting to think his opponent is better. Team USA has one Welterweight finalist who should easily win, no matter who wins next week's episode.
- Burn Notice Returns: As of now this is one of only 2 fictional shows on my TV schedule right now (Deadliest Catch, The Ultimate Fighter, and Ice Road Truckers are reality shows), but is still the top on list. Great to see these characters on TV again, and I'm looking forward to the rest of the season.
- Cool Xbox 360 Coming Soon: After seeing the happenings from the recent E3 Convention, I've added a horde of games to my must-play list. Alan Wake, Bioshock 2, The Saboteur, Fight Night Round 4.......good times are coming to my controller.
- Wrestling Takes A Dive, But Gets Back Up: I couldn't bring myself to keep up with wrestling after the recent WrestleMania (If you're wondering about TNA, I still won't care about it until its best wrestlers move to WWE), but the most recent PPV brought some desparately needed changes. Let's hope they keep it interesting.
- UFC 100 Party: That's right, I'm going all out on this one. July 11 will be the UFC's 100th event, and I want to celebrate. Invitations will be going out, but anyone interested may be allowed to come too. Those of you may contact me of course. And don't feel bad if you don't get an invitation, because I only had a handful, so it doesn't mean I forgot some people. Many of you may get a call from me soon.
- Kings Returns Saturday: One of the best new shows to get cut prematurely will air its final episodes this Staurday night. I will watch this show to the very end, and it will find a spot in my DVD collection once it's released.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Highs and Lows
Wow, I am far behind on posting anything on this baby. So much has happened in the world of entertainment, and I don't know where to begin. So, in an attempt to make it readable without it being overly long, I'll break down everything I've seen and done in the world of entertainment with the good and the bad. And since I'm generally a positive person, I'll start with the bad and end with the good so you finish reading with a smile:
The Lows:
Notice there's more highs than lows? Just goes to show that I know good entertainment when I see it. As long as there's entertainment, I will always be entertained. Well, not that I've popped the cherry.....again.....on this blog, I'll try to keep the dust off of it. No worries, I'll keep looking for entertainment to keep the blog filled. You should do the same to keep your blogs, MySpace, FaceBook, and Twitter pages up to date..............or just so you can if my next post is about something that entertained you. You never know............
The Lows:
- Favorite Shows Get Canceled- "Kings" and "Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles" got removed from this upcoming fall schedule, with "Kings" airing its last episodes starting in June, while "Terminator" is just leaving with a cliffhanger ending being unresolved. Damn, I hate television companies. Just because the ratings drop on a show doesn't mean you should waste money on a new show to replace it that could be worse. Give it a friggin' chance, will ya?
- Lackluster WrestleMania- For an event that had some of the best build in the weeks going into it, WrestleMania was hardly amazing. Many matches fell short to live up to its hype. Only a couple of matches stood out, but the rest of the card left me wondering "why do they hold back?" Now wrestling has begun a downhill trend, especially with TNA Wrestling, which I no longer keep track of.
- Ninja Gaiden II Completed....With Much Frustration- Playing this xBox 360 game became a chore after a while. Rarely do I ever use a strategy guide for a game, but this one needed every page read. And even certain parts were nigh unbeatable. More enemies than neccessary, and a final series of boss fights with the first being the most difficult almost had me trading this game in.
- Poor Performances By Top UFC Talent- Some of the best fighters I've come to like in the UFC have really gotten beat pretty bad. Gabriel Gonzaga was once a feared heavyweight contender until suffering some major losses because of an apparent "glass jaw." Joe Stevenson has lost 3 in a row, which is unusual for an Ultimate Fighter champion. Chuck Lidell gets served his 2nd vicious KO in a row, and it may signal his retirement. And even though he's still middleweight champion, Anderson Silva has had a difficult time putting on a good fight. His last fight with Thales Leites was unexciting, though I will say Leites was more to blame.
- Getting Harder To Get To The Theaters- While this was originally my fault, lately it's become more the fault of the movies I've wanted see that seem to have a certain factor that forces me to wait until a DVD release. "X-Men Origins: Wolverine" had a great preview and got me interested, but the running time is barely an hour and a half long, so not worth $10 to sit in a theater. "Watchmen" caught my eye during it's pre-release hype, but some mixed reviews (some including unneccessary spoilers) ruined this for me. "Terminator: Salvation" is the only one that has me anxious, despite the poor reception it received, so this is a 50-50.
- Favorite Shows End Strong- "24", "Lost", and "Prison Break" all ended their seasons in spectaculr fashion. "24" saw some new characters step up to make themselves memorable while good ol' Jack Bauer still showed his stuff. "Lost" answered many questions and continues to turn everything upside down and make everything more intense. "Prison Break" actually ended its series, but it ended with all the good guys finishing on top. R.I.P. Michael Scofield, I only hope your last moments were worth what you went through.
- Great WWE Superstars Are Now Legends- Several of my favorite WWE wrestlers were inducted into the Hall of Fame this year. Koko B. Ware, Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat, and "Stone Cold" Steve Austin were very deserving of their accolades this year, and I couldn't have been happier with their induction. Even Steamboat got a match at WrestleMania and showed that he is still a great competitor.
- I Love My xBox 360-The console continues to provide me with some great games to keep my excitement levels on high. I finished Gears of War and BioShock on my own and greatly acknowledge their greatness, while Fight Night Round 3, Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe, and Soul Calibur IV give me some fun moments just when I pick them up. I also currently picked up UFC Undisputed 2009, and am now addicted to head kick KOs and plenty of ground-and-pound. Gotta love it.
- Machida Becomes UFC Light Hevayweight Champion- The one fighter most deserving of his title shot, Lyoto "The Dragon" Machida got a dominating victory over Rashad Evans (whom I LOATHE) to become the new light heavyweight champion. I got to see a great fighter completely demolish his competition, and I also won $2 betting against my brother on the fight. I won $7 over the course of the whole event. What luck!
- The Greatest Wrestling Drama Was In Theaters- After hearing all the hype about the movie "The Wrestler" from both critics and friends and family who saw it, I outright purchased it on the day of its DVD release. It was worth it. Thanks to Mickey Rourke who put in a great performance, this dark look at an aging pro wrestler's last shot at glory caught many by surprise.......and entertained them all.
- Honor The Fallen Icons- Heath Ledger won the Best Supporting Actor Oscar for his role as The Joker in "The Dark Knight".....Dom DeLuise passed away, but reminded us all of the great comedy moments he was a part of.....Bruce Lee got a great special on The History Channel showing his effect on the whole world, and is now a recognized figure in China. Yes, these guys left a legacy that will not be forgotten.
- Great Stuff On TV- "Rescue Me" came back strong during this season's start, and has become my top show right now. "Deadliest Warrior" has become an interesting show, and has kept me watching (I am 6-2 on my picks for winners of each episode, by the way.......no, I'm not typing in that BTW crap). "Deadliest Catch" has still been cool to watch, as has the newest season of "The Ultimate Fighter." And starting soon my favorite summer show "Burn Notice" will be starting up again.
- Guess Who I Saw Perform Live.........: The same night as WrestleMania I was privileged to see a great mainstream stand-up comedian perform in Easton, PA. I'm talking about the one and only Mr. Lewis B-b-b-b-blaaaaaaaaack! It was a great and funny show to see, with a great opening act by John Bowman, Lewis Black put on a great show that kept laughing all throughout. I have now crossed this item off of my "Entertainment To-Do List," and will not forget this.
Notice there's more highs than lows? Just goes to show that I know good entertainment when I see it. As long as there's entertainment, I will always be entertained. Well, not that I've popped the cherry.....again.....on this blog, I'll try to keep the dust off of it. No worries, I'll keep looking for entertainment to keep the blog filled. You should do the same to keep your blogs, MySpace, FaceBook, and Twitter pages up to date..............or just so you can if my next post is about something that entertained you. You never know............
Monday, March 23, 2009
State of Television Announcement
I guess I can't make any real excuses for why I haven't been posting on here lately. So I'll just try to catch up on one of the major things that entertain me now.......television. As of late, I've decided on the shows that still entertain me the most that I will be keeping up with while some are being completely dropped. I'll also mention shows coming up that I'll be tuning in to, and others I've picked up just now. Let's get started:
Still Going Strong-
- 24: Still my favorite show on television. After starting with a lackluster villain for the first portion of the season, now we come face to face with a great adversary in Jon Voight. Kiefer Sutherland still continues to be bad a$$, and even some of the new characters have begun to find their groove. Add in a few surprises here and there, and we've got a show that still stays on top.
- Lost: After what was considered a lackluster last season (I personally disagree), this show has picked up the pace since this season's start, and continues to be excellent. Now that the island is in 1977, the story has gotten interesting and actually believable. Still got my favorite characters involved heavily (sadly Desmond has gone missing, but he'll be back), and the show continues to throw a small shocker at you every now and then.
- Terminator:The Sarah Conner Chronicles: Because I was such a fan of the Terminator franchise, I've still given the show some time. But because it sticks to the things established in the movies, and even gives you more of a look into the Terminator universe, the show continues to hold my attention. Now that it's established its characters, it looks like it'll begin the real action that we've seen from time to time.
- Star Wars:The Clone Wars: Yes, I still watch freaking cartoons. Aside from its Star Wars base, it's actually done very well since its start. Good action, some actual drama, and interesting stories have kept me entertained very much. They've definitely proved that the limited success of the movie can be expanded on with the TV series. Can't wait until the start of season 2 this fall.
Just Watching-
- My Name Is Earl: Despite the lack of change in characters, the show still tells some good stories and has some fun moments. Pretty much just good for some laughs.
- The Office: Same as the above mentioned show, though definitely gives some more laughs. Still has the characters we've come to enjoy.
- Smallville: Almost gave up on this show until the start of this season. Thanks to some decent stories and good character moments, this show has kept my attention......that plus waiting for some cool DC characters to pop up.
- The Simpsons: The show continues to make me laugh. What else can I say?
- American Dad: Actually more enjoyable than Family Guy right now, the show has really hit a creative stride and is just basically fun.
- The Ultimate Fighter: As a die-hard MMA fan, I am required to watch this show. Every episode has a fight, so I can sit through the rest with ease. Next season starting soon, so there I'll be.
Under Threat of Boycott-
- Heroes: After some botched character development and general boring stories, this show is getting harder to commit to. Monday's episode looked promising in previews, so it still has a small chance.
- Family Guy: Basically been hit-or-miss the entire season. Seeing more characters left out who are considered popular. Good thing it's between The Simpsons and American Dad.
- Rescue Me: I used to be really into this show. But after a crappy previous season, I don't know how much more time to really invest. The newest season starts soon, and I'm giving it one more chance.
Down For The Count-
- nip/tuck: The first part of the previous season gave me nothing, and the second part gave me even less. The show has become predictable, the characters never change, and the portion of the show dedicated to a particular patient has become a waste. Sorry, but the show has flatlined, and I have no interest in seeing its final season.
New To The Team
- Kings: After hearing some high praise, the premiere episode showed it deserved it all. Great acting, action, and visuals made all two hours of its premiere worth while. Gonna keep up with this one and see where it goes.
In the way of major TV shows, these are the main ones with regular seasons. Most everything else I see when its on (The Soup, Dirty Jobs, etc.). Anyways, that's the scoop on my TV-watchings these days. I think I'll continue these "State Of" posts in most every form of entertainment I partake in. Well, you'll have to wait for the next one. Go do your thing I always tell you to do at this part of the post.
Still Going Strong-
- 24: Still my favorite show on television. After starting with a lackluster villain for the first portion of the season, now we come face to face with a great adversary in Jon Voight. Kiefer Sutherland still continues to be bad a$$, and even some of the new characters have begun to find their groove. Add in a few surprises here and there, and we've got a show that still stays on top.
- Lost: After what was considered a lackluster last season (I personally disagree), this show has picked up the pace since this season's start, and continues to be excellent. Now that the island is in 1977, the story has gotten interesting and actually believable. Still got my favorite characters involved heavily (sadly Desmond has gone missing, but he'll be back), and the show continues to throw a small shocker at you every now and then.
- Terminator:The Sarah Conner Chronicles: Because I was such a fan of the Terminator franchise, I've still given the show some time. But because it sticks to the things established in the movies, and even gives you more of a look into the Terminator universe, the show continues to hold my attention. Now that it's established its characters, it looks like it'll begin the real action that we've seen from time to time.
- Star Wars:The Clone Wars: Yes, I still watch freaking cartoons. Aside from its Star Wars base, it's actually done very well since its start. Good action, some actual drama, and interesting stories have kept me entertained very much. They've definitely proved that the limited success of the movie can be expanded on with the TV series. Can't wait until the start of season 2 this fall.
Just Watching-
- My Name Is Earl: Despite the lack of change in characters, the show still tells some good stories and has some fun moments. Pretty much just good for some laughs.
- The Office: Same as the above mentioned show, though definitely gives some more laughs. Still has the characters we've come to enjoy.
- Smallville: Almost gave up on this show until the start of this season. Thanks to some decent stories and good character moments, this show has kept my attention......that plus waiting for some cool DC characters to pop up.
- The Simpsons: The show continues to make me laugh. What else can I say?
- American Dad: Actually more enjoyable than Family Guy right now, the show has really hit a creative stride and is just basically fun.
- The Ultimate Fighter: As a die-hard MMA fan, I am required to watch this show. Every episode has a fight, so I can sit through the rest with ease. Next season starting soon, so there I'll be.
Under Threat of Boycott-
- Heroes: After some botched character development and general boring stories, this show is getting harder to commit to. Monday's episode looked promising in previews, so it still has a small chance.
- Family Guy: Basically been hit-or-miss the entire season. Seeing more characters left out who are considered popular. Good thing it's between The Simpsons and American Dad.
- Rescue Me: I used to be really into this show. But after a crappy previous season, I don't know how much more time to really invest. The newest season starts soon, and I'm giving it one more chance.
Down For The Count-
- nip/tuck: The first part of the previous season gave me nothing, and the second part gave me even less. The show has become predictable, the characters never change, and the portion of the show dedicated to a particular patient has become a waste. Sorry, but the show has flatlined, and I have no interest in seeing its final season.
New To The Team
- Kings: After hearing some high praise, the premiere episode showed it deserved it all. Great acting, action, and visuals made all two hours of its premiere worth while. Gonna keep up with this one and see where it goes.
In the way of major TV shows, these are the main ones with regular seasons. Most everything else I see when its on (The Soup, Dirty Jobs, etc.). Anyways, that's the scoop on my TV-watchings these days. I think I'll continue these "State Of" posts in most every form of entertainment I partake in. Well, you'll have to wait for the next one. Go do your thing I always tell you to do at this part of the post.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
The Great Debate: The Result
Those of you who already read the blog on my wife's and my blog already know what the outcome was because of the post on my birthday, but I figured I would give those who have seen the debate on here all the details.
The end result came down to what I figured was the major factor in this whole debate: cost. Unfortunately at that point, the Playstation 3 was out of contention (don't worry, all hope isn't lost as you'll see down below). At that point, it came down to strength. Simply put, my wife wanted to know which system I would prefer: the Xbox 360 or the Nintendo Wii. Of course I had been doing my research on both systems (during my free time of course....I'm not that much of a loser), and seeing the games available, as well as the strength of the system itself, the choice was easy.
Sitting in my living room now is my very own Xbox 360 Arcade version. And of course, I am happy with having this system. I've played this system almost every day, and already have a few great games to play. With the system I got Sega Superstars Tennis and an Xbox Arcade compilation. SST is a decent game, and the AC provides a lot of general fun with some challenging games. The first game I received was Fight Night Round 3. I've had a lot of fun with this one, and already run through the career mode once as Jake LaMotta, my favorite fighter in the game. Three more games got added to my collection as well: Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe, Gears of War, and Dead Rising. MK vs. DC was the only game currently that was worth paying full price for, and will probably be the game I seriously play over the next few days. GOW and DR were both very cheap but very popular, and give me something completely different to play. Overall, I got a great system with some great games to start, and I have others on my wanted list as well as some to look forward to.
Now then, where does this leave the Nintendo Wii and Playstation 3? I have mulled over this for a little bit, and unfortunately there is no intention for me to get a Nintendo Wii. It offers some great games, but they're games better suited to play with friends, and several friends have these games. Needless to say, I won't be missing out. As for the Playstation 3, I must admit I'm still a little smitten with this one. There are some very cool games I would like to play, but the cost doesn't warrent an immediate purchase. So I've resolved to wait until the system becomes more affordable (less than $300 ideally), and when the money is available, that system will be mine as well. And that's all there is to it.
Well, I guess I'll have to make some more posts on here. Even though the event was last night, tomorrow I'll look to recap UFC 95 as it was worthwhile set of fights. Looking at the clock right now, I can see there's plenty of time left in the day to find entertainment. The Oscars are tonight, so that may be worth checking out. There's also a Nascar race on tonight as well. There's plenty more available to you I'm sure. Wait a minute.......why am I giving you suggestions? You know what entertains you, so you decide and work on that right now.
The end result came down to what I figured was the major factor in this whole debate: cost. Unfortunately at that point, the Playstation 3 was out of contention (don't worry, all hope isn't lost as you'll see down below). At that point, it came down to strength. Simply put, my wife wanted to know which system I would prefer: the Xbox 360 or the Nintendo Wii. Of course I had been doing my research on both systems (during my free time of course....I'm not that much of a loser), and seeing the games available, as well as the strength of the system itself, the choice was easy.
Sitting in my living room now is my very own Xbox 360 Arcade version. And of course, I am happy with having this system. I've played this system almost every day, and already have a few great games to play. With the system I got Sega Superstars Tennis and an Xbox Arcade compilation. SST is a decent game, and the AC provides a lot of general fun with some challenging games. The first game I received was Fight Night Round 3. I've had a lot of fun with this one, and already run through the career mode once as Jake LaMotta, my favorite fighter in the game. Three more games got added to my collection as well: Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe, Gears of War, and Dead Rising. MK vs. DC was the only game currently that was worth paying full price for, and will probably be the game I seriously play over the next few days. GOW and DR were both very cheap but very popular, and give me something completely different to play. Overall, I got a great system with some great games to start, and I have others on my wanted list as well as some to look forward to.
Now then, where does this leave the Nintendo Wii and Playstation 3? I have mulled over this for a little bit, and unfortunately there is no intention for me to get a Nintendo Wii. It offers some great games, but they're games better suited to play with friends, and several friends have these games. Needless to say, I won't be missing out. As for the Playstation 3, I must admit I'm still a little smitten with this one. There are some very cool games I would like to play, but the cost doesn't warrent an immediate purchase. So I've resolved to wait until the system becomes more affordable (less than $300 ideally), and when the money is available, that system will be mine as well. And that's all there is to it.
Well, I guess I'll have to make some more posts on here. Even though the event was last night, tomorrow I'll look to recap UFC 95 as it was worthwhile set of fights. Looking at the clock right now, I can see there's plenty of time left in the day to find entertainment. The Oscars are tonight, so that may be worth checking out. There's also a Nascar race on tonight as well. There's plenty more available to you I'm sure. Wait a minute.......why am I giving you suggestions? You know what entertains you, so you decide and work on that right now.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Far Behind: Entertainment From The Last Week
Yeah, I know........I'm not good at keeping Internet promises. It's been over a week since my last post. If it makes you feel better, between work and sleep and spending time with my wife, I did get some entertainment in. I'm just gonna try to catch up with all of that by doing an abridged TV Wrap-up (with only the shows I'm seriously watching), a quick look at the recent UFC Fight Night event, and a summary on the latest video game I completed. Here we go:
- 24: The episode last week ended on the downside, which is odd because they usually end on the upside. Good action scenes in this one, and surprisingly they ended the beginning of the season terrorist threat. Not impressed with the current villain this season, as he acts like a tough guy, yet would rather run than fight. Completely different from his intro in the 24:Redemption special.
- Lost: The season continues to impress. Good spots with Sawyer in this one. The Oceanic Six seem poised to reunite finally, but the ones left on the island are far more interesting. You can feel their sense of urgency now as they're starting to get worse one by one. And now with a vested interest in them, I'm hooked.
- Star Wars The Clone Wars: Probably the best episode so far, and it featured the clone troopers more than the Jedi. Still, the Jedi had a great fight sequence. The troopers are becoming more interesting as they're actual personalities instead of mindless soldiers. The end of the episode also got you thinking, and let's hope this theme comes up again.
- UFC Fight Night: For an event that lacked outstanding and well-known fighters, it was still an outstanding event. Anthony Johnson got another great KO over Luigi Fiorivanti. Time for him to step up. Josh Neer submitted Mac Danzig in round 2, which disappointed me very much since Danzgi is a recent The Ultimate Fighter Winner. Cain Velasquez got a 2nd round TKO over newcomer Denis Stojnic. Some say Velasquez is the next big thing at heavyweight, but I'm waiting to be impressed. The main event between Joe Lauzon and Jeremy Stephens was good while it lasted as Lauzon won by 2nd round submission. Good possible matchups for all these fighters after this event.
-Star Wars The Force Unleashed: Recently finished for the PS2, it takes the idea of playing as a Jedi to a whole new level. Gameplay was fun as you got to use Force powers unlike any from previous games. The story was a little stunted, but those who know the Star Wars universe will understand it. Only lacking real FMV sequences in between gameplay because of it's PS2 base, but I'm sure they look cool on the PS3, Wii or X-Box 360. In the end, I felt the game was better than many considered, and a sequel with some new characters would be a welcome thing.
OK, that's all out of my system now. My posts work fairly easy this way. From now on, my TV Wrap-ups will only focus on the more active TV shows, and I'll try to keep my posts to one topic only. And right now, I'm too tired to tell you to find something entertaining while I do the same.......you know the drill.
- 24: The episode last week ended on the downside, which is odd because they usually end on the upside. Good action scenes in this one, and surprisingly they ended the beginning of the season terrorist threat. Not impressed with the current villain this season, as he acts like a tough guy, yet would rather run than fight. Completely different from his intro in the 24:Redemption special.
- Lost: The season continues to impress. Good spots with Sawyer in this one. The Oceanic Six seem poised to reunite finally, but the ones left on the island are far more interesting. You can feel their sense of urgency now as they're starting to get worse one by one. And now with a vested interest in them, I'm hooked.
- Star Wars The Clone Wars: Probably the best episode so far, and it featured the clone troopers more than the Jedi. Still, the Jedi had a great fight sequence. The troopers are becoming more interesting as they're actual personalities instead of mindless soldiers. The end of the episode also got you thinking, and let's hope this theme comes up again.
- UFC Fight Night: For an event that lacked outstanding and well-known fighters, it was still an outstanding event. Anthony Johnson got another great KO over Luigi Fiorivanti. Time for him to step up. Josh Neer submitted Mac Danzig in round 2, which disappointed me very much since Danzgi is a recent The Ultimate Fighter Winner. Cain Velasquez got a 2nd round TKO over newcomer Denis Stojnic. Some say Velasquez is the next big thing at heavyweight, but I'm waiting to be impressed. The main event between Joe Lauzon and Jeremy Stephens was good while it lasted as Lauzon won by 2nd round submission. Good possible matchups for all these fighters after this event.
-Star Wars The Force Unleashed: Recently finished for the PS2, it takes the idea of playing as a Jedi to a whole new level. Gameplay was fun as you got to use Force powers unlike any from previous games. The story was a little stunted, but those who know the Star Wars universe will understand it. Only lacking real FMV sequences in between gameplay because of it's PS2 base, but I'm sure they look cool on the PS3, Wii or X-Box 360. In the end, I felt the game was better than many considered, and a sequel with some new characters would be a welcome thing.
OK, that's all out of my system now. My posts work fairly easy this way. From now on, my TV Wrap-ups will only focus on the more active TV shows, and I'll try to keep my posts to one topic only. And right now, I'm too tired to tell you to find something entertaining while I do the same.......you know the drill.
Monday, February 2, 2009
UFC 94 and the Super Bowl
Quite an exciting weekend for the sporting world, wasn't it? Saturday night the UFC provided us with the ultimate rematch between Georges St. Pierre and BJ Penn, and Sunday night was the big NFL championship game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Arizona Cardinals. Lets see how all of this went down, shall we?
UFC 94: Penn vs. St. Pierre II provided us with some very interesting and even matchups. I will mention that the term "even" is INSANELY appropriate as 8 of the 10 fights that night went to decision, with several being split decisions to boot. The main card proved entertaining still, although the first two fights could've gone either way in the end.
The first fight was between top lightweights Clay Guida and Nate Diaz. Guida was a slight favorite because of his experience, but Diaz was to be a tough one for him. In the end, Guida got a close split decision victory because of his grappling and aggression, although some felt Diaz should've gotten the win. I felt Guida just got it, and now he's up to some tough competition. Following this fight was a welterweight bout between Karo Parysian and Dong-Hyun Kim. Another back and forth fight occured, and another split decision was reached in favor of Parysian. I really thought Kim had eked out the fight, but it was still an entertaining fight to see.
Next was a light heavyweight battle between Stephan Bonnar and Jon Jones. In what was supposed to be Bonnar's comeback turned into a nightmarish one-sided lose where Jones both out-struck and out-grappled the veteran. Still, Jones looked very impressive, and shows a lot of promise. Another highly-anticipated light heavyweight fight came next as Lyoto Machida took on Thiago Silva. Both were undefeated, and both were looking for a title shot. In the end, Machida dominated the stad-up game, knocked Silva down several times before finishing him off with a downward right that put him out at the last second of the first round. Great showing by Machida, and he proved he could very well be the next champion.
Finally, it was time for the fight I had been waiting quite some time for: welterweight champion Georges St. Pierre was defending his title against current lightweight champion BJ Penn. I begged for St. Pierre to put a beating on Penn in some way. He did not disappoint. After a good first round for both, but a clear round for St. Pierre, he began to demolish Penn on the ground by taking him down, and beating on him relentlessly. He did so through to round 4, and Penn who was completely broken at this point, was forced to give up then and there, and his corner threw in the towel. Georges St. Pierre is still champion, did it convincingly, and completely outclassed someone who was expected to give him a good fight.
As if one night for a great sporting event wasn't enough, the next night did it again with Super Bowl XLIII. The Steelers were clear favorites against the Cardinals, but most every football fan knew the Cardinals would not go down with giving them hell. I actually thought the Cardinals would get the win, and I rooted for them the whole way. The first half of the game didn't seem that way, as the Steelers got a field goal in the first quarter, then scored a touchdown in the second. Although the Cardinals got a touchdown in the second quarter, they failed to capitolize on a chance to pull ahead as Pittsburgh intercepted their attempt at a touchdown, and scored one of their own in the longest Super Bowl run of an even 100 yards by Santonio Holmes. Impressive......but not looking good for the Cardinals. Score was 17-7 Steelers.
The third quarter went similar to the first, as the Steelers added a field goal to their score. It was the forth quarter where it got interesting. With a touchdown, a safety, and another touchdown, the Cardinals pulled ahead 23-20, keeping the hope alive. Not much time was left on the clock for Pittsburgh to either pull ahead or tie the game with a field goal. They choose to end it there, and a touchdown by Larry Fitzgerald pulled the Steelers ahead 27-23. Now the Cardinals had even less time to get another touchdown to get a win. Those hopes were dashed when the Steelers again intercepted a poor Kurt Warner pass attempt. The Pittsburgh Steelers are again NFL champs for a record six times in the team's history. Not much you can say other than that it was a hell of a game, the way a championship game should be.
Whew, I'm getting excited all over again just reliving these great and entertaining moments. Let me tone it down, and end this blog. Upcoming posts will include a look at reality shows, talk of the latest video game I've been playing, and some other cool Top 5 lists. These are gonna be some cool posts, I can see it now. But you know what the cool thing to do right now is? Find your own entertainment right now. You know how I know that's cool? Cause that's what I'm gonna do. Oh yeeeeeeeeeeeah........
UFC 94: Penn vs. St. Pierre II provided us with some very interesting and even matchups. I will mention that the term "even" is INSANELY appropriate as 8 of the 10 fights that night went to decision, with several being split decisions to boot. The main card proved entertaining still, although the first two fights could've gone either way in the end.
The first fight was between top lightweights Clay Guida and Nate Diaz. Guida was a slight favorite because of his experience, but Diaz was to be a tough one for him. In the end, Guida got a close split decision victory because of his grappling and aggression, although some felt Diaz should've gotten the win. I felt Guida just got it, and now he's up to some tough competition. Following this fight was a welterweight bout between Karo Parysian and Dong-Hyun Kim. Another back and forth fight occured, and another split decision was reached in favor of Parysian. I really thought Kim had eked out the fight, but it was still an entertaining fight to see.
Next was a light heavyweight battle between Stephan Bonnar and Jon Jones. In what was supposed to be Bonnar's comeback turned into a nightmarish one-sided lose where Jones both out-struck and out-grappled the veteran. Still, Jones looked very impressive, and shows a lot of promise. Another highly-anticipated light heavyweight fight came next as Lyoto Machida took on Thiago Silva. Both were undefeated, and both were looking for a title shot. In the end, Machida dominated the stad-up game, knocked Silva down several times before finishing him off with a downward right that put him out at the last second of the first round. Great showing by Machida, and he proved he could very well be the next champion.
Finally, it was time for the fight I had been waiting quite some time for: welterweight champion Georges St. Pierre was defending his title against current lightweight champion BJ Penn. I begged for St. Pierre to put a beating on Penn in some way. He did not disappoint. After a good first round for both, but a clear round for St. Pierre, he began to demolish Penn on the ground by taking him down, and beating on him relentlessly. He did so through to round 4, and Penn who was completely broken at this point, was forced to give up then and there, and his corner threw in the towel. Georges St. Pierre is still champion, did it convincingly, and completely outclassed someone who was expected to give him a good fight.
As if one night for a great sporting event wasn't enough, the next night did it again with Super Bowl XLIII. The Steelers were clear favorites against the Cardinals, but most every football fan knew the Cardinals would not go down with giving them hell. I actually thought the Cardinals would get the win, and I rooted for them the whole way. The first half of the game didn't seem that way, as the Steelers got a field goal in the first quarter, then scored a touchdown in the second. Although the Cardinals got a touchdown in the second quarter, they failed to capitolize on a chance to pull ahead as Pittsburgh intercepted their attempt at a touchdown, and scored one of their own in the longest Super Bowl run of an even 100 yards by Santonio Holmes. Impressive......but not looking good for the Cardinals. Score was 17-7 Steelers.
The third quarter went similar to the first, as the Steelers added a field goal to their score. It was the forth quarter where it got interesting. With a touchdown, a safety, and another touchdown, the Cardinals pulled ahead 23-20, keeping the hope alive. Not much time was left on the clock for Pittsburgh to either pull ahead or tie the game with a field goal. They choose to end it there, and a touchdown by Larry Fitzgerald pulled the Steelers ahead 27-23. Now the Cardinals had even less time to get another touchdown to get a win. Those hopes were dashed when the Steelers again intercepted a poor Kurt Warner pass attempt. The Pittsburgh Steelers are again NFL champs for a record six times in the team's history. Not much you can say other than that it was a hell of a game, the way a championship game should be.
Whew, I'm getting excited all over again just reliving these great and entertaining moments. Let me tone it down, and end this blog. Upcoming posts will include a look at reality shows, talk of the latest video game I've been playing, and some other cool Top 5 lists. These are gonna be some cool posts, I can see it now. But you know what the cool thing to do right now is? Find your own entertainment right now. You know how I know that's cool? Cause that's what I'm gonna do. Oh yeeeeeeeeeeeah........
Friday, January 30, 2009
Top 5: Family Guy Characters
I recently read an article on an entertainment website that featured a list for the "Top 100 Animated Shows." Ranked in the top 10 of that list was the show Family Guy. I found it surprising that such a newer show was so high, but after thinking about it, it makes sense. The show has set some standards for new animated shows, especially those with adult themes. So, now that my mind pondered the things that make Family Guy a good show, I came up with my new Top 5 list of characters from Family Guy.
#5- Adam West
The most powerful moron on the show seen on a regular basis (they have featured George W. Bush a couple of times), Mayor of Quahog Adam West is great for those pop-in moments to lighten up some serious situations. Although you question his leadership abilities, you realize that he might be better to deal with than a real politician. Probably the best part about this character is that he's actually voiced by Adam West. How cool is that?
#4- Mort Goldman
For the best one-liners in the show, look no further than pharmacist and resident Jew Mort Goldman. He's had some of the funniest moments on the show, and says some of the most outrageous lines that somehow don't cross any lines, and you can't help but laugh at. Add in his neurotic personality and nervousness when under pressure, and you get some laugh-out-loud scenes that stand out after the episode is over.
#3- Peter and Stewie Griffin
I had to tie these two because although they're drastically different, they serve the same purpose. Both are masterminds when it comes to many of the shows stories, both fail miserably most of the time, and both are there to make viewers uncomfortably laugh at many points of an episode. Peter's stupidity helps propel the pace of the show, while Stewie's insights into particular scenes helps set the tone enough to keep you entertained.
#2- Joe Swanson
Joe was a character who came out of nowhere to provide some great laughs. After a start as the local heroic cop on the show, he's been developed very well into an aggressive, no-nonsense authority figure in every situation, even when he's not in uniform. He also seems to be the main source of some violent content, yet it appears in the right moments where it's enjoyable to watch (I mean that more like watching a boxing or UFC match, or even an action-movie shoot-out......don't think I meant something far worse). He's become what George Constanza became in Seinfeld, where you see his anger, and you have to laugh.
#1- Glenn Quagmire
Find it odd that a non-Griffin topped the list? I have some good reasons why. For the best source of taking a small scene to an extreme, look no further than Quagmire. He'll pop in with a sex joke or pun easily related to what you're watching, and deep down inside us all our low-brow sense of humor bursts out laughing. And thanks to his character, he can continue to be original thanks to the endless source of humor that the idea of sex provides us with. The biggest reason that he's here at #1 is that he's basically there to express what we're pretty much thinking watching something in particular. You hear someone say something that could be considered sexual, and before that thought completes itself, Quagmire is already one step ahead of you. Makes you feel a little less guilty about laughing then.
That's my Top 5 for the day. Tomorrow will be our TV Wrap-up, then after will be my look at UFC 94: St. Pierre vs. Penn II. Also, if there's anyone who seriously reads this, I welcome any suggestions for my Top 5 lists (as long as it's something I find entertaining). Good way to keep my brain functioning with some actual thought. For now though, I think it would be a good idea for us slow down our brain activity, and find something a little more appealing. Maybe something enjoyable. How else can I put it?........I know. Let's all find something entertaining. Sound good to you?
#5- Adam West
The most powerful moron on the show seen on a regular basis (they have featured George W. Bush a couple of times), Mayor of Quahog Adam West is great for those pop-in moments to lighten up some serious situations. Although you question his leadership abilities, you realize that he might be better to deal with than a real politician. Probably the best part about this character is that he's actually voiced by Adam West. How cool is that?
#4- Mort Goldman
For the best one-liners in the show, look no further than pharmacist and resident Jew Mort Goldman. He's had some of the funniest moments on the show, and says some of the most outrageous lines that somehow don't cross any lines, and you can't help but laugh at. Add in his neurotic personality and nervousness when under pressure, and you get some laugh-out-loud scenes that stand out after the episode is over.
#3- Peter and Stewie Griffin
I had to tie these two because although they're drastically different, they serve the same purpose. Both are masterminds when it comes to many of the shows stories, both fail miserably most of the time, and both are there to make viewers uncomfortably laugh at many points of an episode. Peter's stupidity helps propel the pace of the show, while Stewie's insights into particular scenes helps set the tone enough to keep you entertained.
#2- Joe Swanson
Joe was a character who came out of nowhere to provide some great laughs. After a start as the local heroic cop on the show, he's been developed very well into an aggressive, no-nonsense authority figure in every situation, even when he's not in uniform. He also seems to be the main source of some violent content, yet it appears in the right moments where it's enjoyable to watch (I mean that more like watching a boxing or UFC match, or even an action-movie shoot-out......don't think I meant something far worse). He's become what George Constanza became in Seinfeld, where you see his anger, and you have to laugh.
#1- Glenn Quagmire
Find it odd that a non-Griffin topped the list? I have some good reasons why. For the best source of taking a small scene to an extreme, look no further than Quagmire. He'll pop in with a sex joke or pun easily related to what you're watching, and deep down inside us all our low-brow sense of humor bursts out laughing. And thanks to his character, he can continue to be original thanks to the endless source of humor that the idea of sex provides us with. The biggest reason that he's here at #1 is that he's basically there to express what we're pretty much thinking watching something in particular. You hear someone say something that could be considered sexual, and before that thought completes itself, Quagmire is already one step ahead of you. Makes you feel a little less guilty about laughing then.
That's my Top 5 for the day. Tomorrow will be our TV Wrap-up, then after will be my look at UFC 94: St. Pierre vs. Penn II. Also, if there's anyone who seriously reads this, I welcome any suggestions for my Top 5 lists (as long as it's something I find entertaining). Good way to keep my brain functioning with some actual thought. For now though, I think it would be a good idea for us slow down our brain activity, and find something a little more appealing. Maybe something enjoyable. How else can I put it?........I know. Let's all find something entertaining. Sound good to you?
Monday, January 26, 2009
2009 Royal Rumble + Quick TV Warp-up
The first WWE pay-per-view of the year is always their strongest one. The Royal Rumble is the beginning of the "road to WrestleMania," and although the event this year gave us a clear-cut picture of what will be coming up in regards to "the grandest stage of them all," the matches promised didn't quite deliver as they should've.
First match-up of the night was for the ECW Championship as new champion Jack Swagger defended against former champ Matt Hardy. My expectations of this match weren't high, and I was right. Nothing much exciting, no high spots, and the match had a boring ending. The only real noticeable thing was Matt Hardy's expression after the match, which gave us a glimpse about where he'd get involved later.
Next was the Women's Championship match between champion Beth Phoenix and Melina. Very general women's match, a couple of botched spots, but a surprising ending as Melina won the match and the title. Curious to see where this all goes.
After that was the WWE Title Match as JBL with Shawn Michaels in his corner challenged John Cena. Unfortunately, this match played out similar to their WrestleMania match from a few years ago. The end is where it got interesting as Shawn got involved by taking out both wrestlers, and leaving the ring and giving JBL the potential win. However, Cena came back and got the win in the end.
The best regular match of the night went to World Heavyweight champion Jeff Hardy defending against Edge. The match was made No Disqualification right before it started, so of course some high spots were expected. However, the match did drag on for a little until it finally came to the end where the unthinkable happened: Matt Hardy came out seemingly to help his brother Jeff, but instead turned on him and cost him the title. Edge became new champion, and now a Matt/Jeff feud is in the works.
Finally was the match that was worth waiting for: the Royal Rumble match. 30 of the WWE's best superstars competed for a title shot at WrestleMania. Usually there are some surprise participants, but this year only had one: the return of Rob Van Dam. He looked good, not missing a step, but didn't win the match in the end. This year they seemed content with filling the ring as much as possible, and there were on average about 15 wrestlers in the ring for most of the match. In the end, the winner was actually the man expected to win (based on his storyline from the last few weeks), and Randy Orton made it through the match by eliminating Triple H last. Orton now has a chance to fight for any major title he wants.
In the end, the event was good for one reason only: the Royal Rumble. Otherwise, you could take it or leave it. Moving on, I have a quick blurb from my TV Wrap-up now that I've caught up:
Smallville- Very general episode. Only a handful of characters got some spotlight, while the ones left out have been missing for a couple of weeks now. Only real revelations came at the end of the episode, but it doesn't seem major enough. Hopefully the show takes a step up next week, or at least shows some promise for the future.
That's your blog for today. Gonna keep the blogs the a surprise for the week (that's includes a surprise to myself.......random seems like a good option for the week). That's the signal......what do I always say at this time? Correct. Now what do I say next? Correct again. And yes, I'm sure you made up some goofy thing so that the "correct" response made you laugh. Oh well, whatever keeps you entertained.
First match-up of the night was for the ECW Championship as new champion Jack Swagger defended against former champ Matt Hardy. My expectations of this match weren't high, and I was right. Nothing much exciting, no high spots, and the match had a boring ending. The only real noticeable thing was Matt Hardy's expression after the match, which gave us a glimpse about where he'd get involved later.
Next was the Women's Championship match between champion Beth Phoenix and Melina. Very general women's match, a couple of botched spots, but a surprising ending as Melina won the match and the title. Curious to see where this all goes.
After that was the WWE Title Match as JBL with Shawn Michaels in his corner challenged John Cena. Unfortunately, this match played out similar to their WrestleMania match from a few years ago. The end is where it got interesting as Shawn got involved by taking out both wrestlers, and leaving the ring and giving JBL the potential win. However, Cena came back and got the win in the end.
The best regular match of the night went to World Heavyweight champion Jeff Hardy defending against Edge. The match was made No Disqualification right before it started, so of course some high spots were expected. However, the match did drag on for a little until it finally came to the end where the unthinkable happened: Matt Hardy came out seemingly to help his brother Jeff, but instead turned on him and cost him the title. Edge became new champion, and now a Matt/Jeff feud is in the works.
Finally was the match that was worth waiting for: the Royal Rumble match. 30 of the WWE's best superstars competed for a title shot at WrestleMania. Usually there are some surprise participants, but this year only had one: the return of Rob Van Dam. He looked good, not missing a step, but didn't win the match in the end. This year they seemed content with filling the ring as much as possible, and there were on average about 15 wrestlers in the ring for most of the match. In the end, the winner was actually the man expected to win (based on his storyline from the last few weeks), and Randy Orton made it through the match by eliminating Triple H last. Orton now has a chance to fight for any major title he wants.
In the end, the event was good for one reason only: the Royal Rumble. Otherwise, you could take it or leave it. Moving on, I have a quick blurb from my TV Wrap-up now that I've caught up:
Smallville- Very general episode. Only a handful of characters got some spotlight, while the ones left out have been missing for a couple of weeks now. Only real revelations came at the end of the episode, but it doesn't seem major enough. Hopefully the show takes a step up next week, or at least shows some promise for the future.
That's your blog for today. Gonna keep the blogs the a surprise for the week (that's includes a surprise to myself.......random seems like a good option for the week). That's the signal......what do I always say at this time? Correct. Now what do I say next? Correct again. And yes, I'm sure you made up some goofy thing so that the "correct" response made you laugh. Oh well, whatever keeps you entertained.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
TV Wrap-up: 1/18 - 1/24
What an incredible week in TV, boy let me tell ya! Season premieres, new episodes back on......every night had something to offer. While I have a couple of shows recorded that I still need to watch, I'll give you the rundown on what I had time for.
24- This episode was standard for the series, but still entertaining. There's a closer look at several of the newest characters, but the best moments come from well-knowns Jack Bauer and Tony Almeida. The highlight was the end of the episode where they took an old idea back from Season 1 and put a new twist on it. Brilliant.
Monday Night Raw- Great for developing storylines, but lacking in real intriguing matches. The spotlight was definitely on the Cena/JBL/Shawn Michaels story, and but real surprise came with the return of Vince McMahon and the involvement of Chris Jericho and Randy Orton in it. Hard to say where this will all go come Sunday's Royal Rumble event.
Dirty Jobs- This episode had difficulty keeping my attention. While the first job of working a a tar pit was decent, the second job involving recycling animals was interesting at first, but then lacked any real appeal. It's tough when you have some real interesting jobs, but have a hard time making it true.
Lost- The premiere delivered as promised. Two episodes were shown in a row, and both were worthwhile. A lot of "What the hell?" moments from start to finish, making it great. Hurley got his stand-out moments in the second episode, but the most entertaining aspects came from those left on the island. They're going through the more "interesting" events in their place and time.......or times, however you want to put it.
My Name Is Earl- A few laugh-out-loud moments, but not much else. They concluded the story set by last week's episode, but now it's uncertain where they'll go from here. Are Joy and Darnell going to disappear for a while? If that's true, will they be able to carry the show with the remaining characters? Tough call.
The Office- A simpler episode with some great comedy. Michael and Dwight get the best moments in their part of the story, while the rest of the cast get involved with something easy, yet funny. Always good to get a relaxed episode like these.
Star Wars: The Clone Wars- Good conclusion to the story started last week. The action was slightly toned down, but still cool to watch. The series continues to give the Star Wars universe some variety, this time with a new alien race and way of life. Definitely a hidden message about the strength of beliefs in war.
Smallville was the only show I didn;t quite get to, but as soon as I see it, I'll have a brief spot for it. Also my next post will be a look at the WWE Royal Rumble event. That's all you need to know. Just like I don't need to know where you'll go for entertainment after you're done reading this. I have it planned to watch The Dark Knight..........feel free to do the same, or find an appropriate substitue. Doesn't matter to me.
24- This episode was standard for the series, but still entertaining. There's a closer look at several of the newest characters, but the best moments come from well-knowns Jack Bauer and Tony Almeida. The highlight was the end of the episode where they took an old idea back from Season 1 and put a new twist on it. Brilliant.
Monday Night Raw- Great for developing storylines, but lacking in real intriguing matches. The spotlight was definitely on the Cena/JBL/Shawn Michaels story, and but real surprise came with the return of Vince McMahon and the involvement of Chris Jericho and Randy Orton in it. Hard to say where this will all go come Sunday's Royal Rumble event.
Dirty Jobs- This episode had difficulty keeping my attention. While the first job of working a a tar pit was decent, the second job involving recycling animals was interesting at first, but then lacked any real appeal. It's tough when you have some real interesting jobs, but have a hard time making it true.
Lost- The premiere delivered as promised. Two episodes were shown in a row, and both were worthwhile. A lot of "What the hell?" moments from start to finish, making it great. Hurley got his stand-out moments in the second episode, but the most entertaining aspects came from those left on the island. They're going through the more "interesting" events in their place and time.......or times, however you want to put it.
My Name Is Earl- A few laugh-out-loud moments, but not much else. They concluded the story set by last week's episode, but now it's uncertain where they'll go from here. Are Joy and Darnell going to disappear for a while? If that's true, will they be able to carry the show with the remaining characters? Tough call.
The Office- A simpler episode with some great comedy. Michael and Dwight get the best moments in their part of the story, while the rest of the cast get involved with something easy, yet funny. Always good to get a relaxed episode like these.
Star Wars: The Clone Wars- Good conclusion to the story started last week. The action was slightly toned down, but still cool to watch. The series continues to give the Star Wars universe some variety, this time with a new alien race and way of life. Definitely a hidden message about the strength of beliefs in war.
Smallville was the only show I didn;t quite get to, but as soon as I see it, I'll have a brief spot for it. Also my next post will be a look at the WWE Royal Rumble event. That's all you need to know. Just like I don't need to know where you'll go for entertainment after you're done reading this. I have it planned to watch The Dark Knight..........feel free to do the same, or find an appropriate substitue. Doesn't matter to me.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
The Top 5: Lost Characters
Oh happy day, one of the most riveting shows on TV is back! Last night was a very triumphant return of "Lost" to television, and made everything stranger will giving us a look at where things will go. A little wierd is the new set-up of the show as now it's more story-telling than character development. Still, those who know the characters well can get used to seeing them act the way they act, and know why they do. So, as a small tribute to the return of a very addictive show, I chosen for the first edition of my "Top 5" to list my 5 favorite Lost characters. I usually don't like to put a rank on things, but I think I can make this list work somehow. Hang onto your computer chairs because here we go:
#5- Jin-Soo Kwon
Jin was unique when he first appeared because he was the only character on the island who didn't speak English. He basically had to work harder than anyone else to survive because he lacked the same communication skills. But what makes him stand out is that although it seemed like he was doomed to be just in the background, they made his character work extremely well, and gave him one of the more hopeful backstorys: son of a poor fisherman who marries the girl of his dreams, but has to serve her father to keep it going. Let's hope he gets time in the new season.
#4- Benjamin Linus
Ben is on this list because of one question: Is he a bad guy or a good guy? This guy is capable of playing both parts, and manages to do it as the same person. First as a creepy stranger to a direct leader to a helpful guide to now an asset for a cause. Where his loyalties truly lie is hard to determine, as he keeps you guessing constantly. It drives you crazy at times, but you can't help enjoy it whenever he shows up. Former leader of The Others now leader of the Oceanic Six......you can't help but wonder what he's got planned already.
#3- Hugo "Hurley" Reyes
Considering the seriousness of the show, you have to be thankful for the comic relief. Hurley, along with his interesting history, has some of the best moments on the show that involves wide range of emotions: sadness, hope, and humor. And while he doesn't have the skills or build of a survivor, he is a big part of keeping the others together, and keeping them going....even if he has some pretty bad luck. If anyone deserves the happpy ending when the show is all said and done, it's this guy.
#2- Desmond Hume
Aside from the guy in the #1 spot below, this character has had some of the wierdest experiences compared to any other character. Pushing a series of buttons over and over, seeing people's deaths, traveling into his own past........imagine going through all that in the span of a few weeks. Aside from the fact that he's a simple man with all these major things happening to him, he is also part of the best romance on the show with Penelope Widmore. Their up-and-down romance ended on the up side at the end of last season, with their reunion serving as one of the happiest moments on the show. You go Desmond!
#1- John Locke
You know from the first look you get of this guy that he belongs. The ultimate survivor, and one of the most confident men you'd ever meet, you would have no idea as to his past. Betrayed by his father because of his need for family, put in a wheelchair with no way to walk again, and seemingly meant to be just another guy on the streets........once Locke ended up on the island, it brought out the best in him. We can now walk, he became the hunter and tracker for the survivors, and allowed his faith and confidence in what he was doing to lead him to what will probably be the most important destiny of any other person on the show. He may be dead now, but knowing him, he certainly won't stay that way. He's too cool for that.
I guess this does take some time, even keeping it at 5.........guess I'll have to take it easy on the next one. But I'm getting this done in time to catch the premiere of Burn Notice tonight, which will be on the TV Wrap-up this Saturday, and coming soon will be the return on Coming Attractions, and a look at the WWE Royal Rumble pay-per-view this Sunday. So, you want to hear more? Too bad, I already gave away the source of my entertainment for the evening. Time for you to turn on the TV, pick up a book, get out a DVD, or turn on your video game system so you can be entertained until the next post.
#5- Jin-Soo Kwon
Jin was unique when he first appeared because he was the only character on the island who didn't speak English. He basically had to work harder than anyone else to survive because he lacked the same communication skills. But what makes him stand out is that although it seemed like he was doomed to be just in the background, they made his character work extremely well, and gave him one of the more hopeful backstorys: son of a poor fisherman who marries the girl of his dreams, but has to serve her father to keep it going. Let's hope he gets time in the new season.
#4- Benjamin Linus
Ben is on this list because of one question: Is he a bad guy or a good guy? This guy is capable of playing both parts, and manages to do it as the same person. First as a creepy stranger to a direct leader to a helpful guide to now an asset for a cause. Where his loyalties truly lie is hard to determine, as he keeps you guessing constantly. It drives you crazy at times, but you can't help enjoy it whenever he shows up. Former leader of The Others now leader of the Oceanic Six......you can't help but wonder what he's got planned already.
#3- Hugo "Hurley" Reyes
Considering the seriousness of the show, you have to be thankful for the comic relief. Hurley, along with his interesting history, has some of the best moments on the show that involves wide range of emotions: sadness, hope, and humor. And while he doesn't have the skills or build of a survivor, he is a big part of keeping the others together, and keeping them going....even if he has some pretty bad luck. If anyone deserves the happpy ending when the show is all said and done, it's this guy.
#2- Desmond Hume
Aside from the guy in the #1 spot below, this character has had some of the wierdest experiences compared to any other character. Pushing a series of buttons over and over, seeing people's deaths, traveling into his own past........imagine going through all that in the span of a few weeks. Aside from the fact that he's a simple man with all these major things happening to him, he is also part of the best romance on the show with Penelope Widmore. Their up-and-down romance ended on the up side at the end of last season, with their reunion serving as one of the happiest moments on the show. You go Desmond!
#1- John Locke
You know from the first look you get of this guy that he belongs. The ultimate survivor, and one of the most confident men you'd ever meet, you would have no idea as to his past. Betrayed by his father because of his need for family, put in a wheelchair with no way to walk again, and seemingly meant to be just another guy on the streets........once Locke ended up on the island, it brought out the best in him. We can now walk, he became the hunter and tracker for the survivors, and allowed his faith and confidence in what he was doing to lead him to what will probably be the most important destiny of any other person on the show. He may be dead now, but knowing him, he certainly won't stay that way. He's too cool for that.
I guess this does take some time, even keeping it at 5.........guess I'll have to take it easy on the next one. But I'm getting this done in time to catch the premiere of Burn Notice tonight, which will be on the TV Wrap-up this Saturday, and coming soon will be the return on Coming Attractions, and a look at the WWE Royal Rumble pay-per-view this Sunday. So, you want to hear more? Too bad, I already gave away the source of my entertainment for the evening. Time for you to turn on the TV, pick up a book, get out a DVD, or turn on your video game system so you can be entertained until the next post.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
UFC 93: Franklin vs. Henderson
Gotta get my rear in gear from now on. Damn near let a week go by without a post, and I even had things to talk about, including this subject. UFC 93, although lacking a title fight, still had several promising fight, especially the main event between Rich Franklin and Dan Henderson.
An undercard fight between welterweights Tom Egan and John Hathaway was shown in the midst of the card, so I'll start with this one. Simply put, although Egan had his home country on his side, Hathaway ran through him in dominating fashion and finished things with a first round TKO. Not too shabby, we may have a potential contender on the way up here soon. The main card then began with another welterweight bout Chris Lytle and Marcus Davis. Everyone expected this fight to be a slugfest, and absolutely nobody was wrong. These two battled it out through all three rounds, back and forth. In the end, Davis' striking was just a little better, and he won by split decision. Davis proved that he's still a top-ranked fighter.
Up next was the debut of highly touted Denis Kang against Alan Belcher. Kang was meant to get an easy win in this middleweight fight, and he almost pulled it off. After wining the first round with ease, Kang took an early lead in the second, but then started to tire out a little. That got me worried, which was justified when Belcher caught him in a guillotine shortly after, and Kang tapped. Guess Belcher just moved up the ladder in a big way. Another middleweight fight followed with Rousimar Palhares taking on veteran Jeremy Horn (88-19-5 record, is that veteran enough?). Although Horn has been on a downhill slide, he held his own very well in this fight against Palhares onslaught. Still, it was a clear-cut unanimous decision for Palhares, but a good show of heart by Horn.
The first of the two main events was up next: Maricio Rua took on Mark Coleman, who was coming out of retirement for this grudge match in the light heavyweight division. I knew ahead of time that not many expected too much from Coleman, and that Rua would finish him easily. Even though Rua finished by a somewhat questionable TKO, it took until round three for it to happen. In the first round Coleman was already gassing out during the end of the round, and it looked like it would be over real soon. Instead, Rua began to look winded in round two, and couldn't seem to finish the fight. The fight started looking terrible at this point, and I was disappointed with both fighters even after it finally ended.
The next fight would prove to be more entertaining. It was time for Rich Franklin to fight Dan Henderson in a light heavyweight contest where the winner would be a coach in the next season of The Ultimate Fighter series. The fight was close enough as could be. Henderson seemed to have won the first two rounds by connecting with some decent strikes, but also with his excellent takedowns. Franklin was able to rally in the third, and won the round. The first two were close, so it could've gone his way. In the end, Dan Henderson got the victory with a split-decision victory; the only taint to that fight was that the judge who felt Franklin won gave him all three rounds, which even drew a surprised look from Franklin.
Well, although the event wasn't the best for one to start the new year, it was still entertaining enough. Of course in two weeks, we'll have the most anticipated fight in a long time as Georges St. Pierre will defend his welterweight title against current lightweight champion BJ Penn. Of course, you'll have my thoughts on that event. As for the coming days, I have a few things planned, including an update on The Great Debate, the return of the TV Wrap-up at the end of the week, and the inclusion of a new segment: The Top 5. Just to give a quick explanation, the Top 5 I intend to use as a filler between some of the longer blogs you see on here, as it will be short enough for me to post in a small amount of time. You'll be seeing that soon.
As for the current state of the entertainment world.........well, I can't do all the work for you, can I? So please, go find out what's in the entertainment world right now. Gee, may I do the same thing now too? Of course yes!
An undercard fight between welterweights Tom Egan and John Hathaway was shown in the midst of the card, so I'll start with this one. Simply put, although Egan had his home country on his side, Hathaway ran through him in dominating fashion and finished things with a first round TKO. Not too shabby, we may have a potential contender on the way up here soon. The main card then began with another welterweight bout Chris Lytle and Marcus Davis. Everyone expected this fight to be a slugfest, and absolutely nobody was wrong. These two battled it out through all three rounds, back and forth. In the end, Davis' striking was just a little better, and he won by split decision. Davis proved that he's still a top-ranked fighter.
Up next was the debut of highly touted Denis Kang against Alan Belcher. Kang was meant to get an easy win in this middleweight fight, and he almost pulled it off. After wining the first round with ease, Kang took an early lead in the second, but then started to tire out a little. That got me worried, which was justified when Belcher caught him in a guillotine shortly after, and Kang tapped. Guess Belcher just moved up the ladder in a big way. Another middleweight fight followed with Rousimar Palhares taking on veteran Jeremy Horn (88-19-5 record, is that veteran enough?). Although Horn has been on a downhill slide, he held his own very well in this fight against Palhares onslaught. Still, it was a clear-cut unanimous decision for Palhares, but a good show of heart by Horn.
The first of the two main events was up next: Maricio Rua took on Mark Coleman, who was coming out of retirement for this grudge match in the light heavyweight division. I knew ahead of time that not many expected too much from Coleman, and that Rua would finish him easily. Even though Rua finished by a somewhat questionable TKO, it took until round three for it to happen. In the first round Coleman was already gassing out during the end of the round, and it looked like it would be over real soon. Instead, Rua began to look winded in round two, and couldn't seem to finish the fight. The fight started looking terrible at this point, and I was disappointed with both fighters even after it finally ended.
The next fight would prove to be more entertaining. It was time for Rich Franklin to fight Dan Henderson in a light heavyweight contest where the winner would be a coach in the next season of The Ultimate Fighter series. The fight was close enough as could be. Henderson seemed to have won the first two rounds by connecting with some decent strikes, but also with his excellent takedowns. Franklin was able to rally in the third, and won the round. The first two were close, so it could've gone his way. In the end, Dan Henderson got the victory with a split-decision victory; the only taint to that fight was that the judge who felt Franklin won gave him all three rounds, which even drew a surprised look from Franklin.
Well, although the event wasn't the best for one to start the new year, it was still entertaining enough. Of course in two weeks, we'll have the most anticipated fight in a long time as Georges St. Pierre will defend his welterweight title against current lightweight champion BJ Penn. Of course, you'll have my thoughts on that event. As for the coming days, I have a few things planned, including an update on The Great Debate, the return of the TV Wrap-up at the end of the week, and the inclusion of a new segment: The Top 5. Just to give a quick explanation, the Top 5 I intend to use as a filler between some of the longer blogs you see on here, as it will be short enough for me to post in a small amount of time. You'll be seeing that soon.
As for the current state of the entertainment world.........well, I can't do all the work for you, can I? So please, go find out what's in the entertainment world right now. Gee, may I do the same thing now too? Of course yes!
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
The Great Debate: Part 3
This is it. The last one to have their voice heard. And yet, they serve as the most powerful voice in this debate (at least in my view). That title belongs to the Playstation 3. My system of choice for the last decade has been a form of Playstation, and this new incarnation seems to have a strong case. Let's hear what it has to say.
In terms of sale price, the PS3 is the most expensive at $350 for its most basic unit, but for the price it offers an insane amount. Aside from playing games, the system also functions as a Blu-Ray player, Internet capabitlity, and capable of playing videos and music. You basically have an entertainment center in one piece of electronic equipment. The system uses its own hard drive to store your games, and can use an attachment to store game files from PSOne and PS2. However, I've been unable to ascertain if the current versions of the system available allow you to play the older games as multiple sources tell me yes AND no for some reason. The system uses wireless controllers of course, and many accessories available are similar to what you can use for your computer, including a wireless keyboard and an internet camera. Boy, there's a lot to toy with here.
As far as games go, the PS3 has available some of the best games there are. While some are also available on the Xbox 360, the most popular games out there are available soley for the PS3. One game immediately comes to mind: Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots. I had the pleasure of trying out this game for a few minutes, and I know it lived up to its hype. The series has also been my favorite of all time (although Final Fantasy is a close tie, and the next title of that series will be coming out soon), and is reason enough for me to get the system. Several other popular series are also available for the system, including Tekken 5: Dark Ressurection, Silent Hill: Homecoming, and Soul Calibur IV.........all favorite series of mine as well.
Other mentionable games:
- Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe (The next game in this well-known series provides a twist by including comic book characters like Superman, The Flash, and the Green Lantern. Yes, my nerdy-tendencies and slight flare towards violence will appreciate this game greatly)
- Uncharted: Drake's Fortune (This new game got some of the best reviews at the time of its release, and after seeing ads for it, it's not hard to figure out why. Think Tomb Raider with a male lead instead, and a more realistic look to everything. Nothing wrong with Lara Croft, but it's good to see something different)
- Resistance: Fall of Man and Resistance 2(The first excellent game available for the system and its well-received sequel, these games are probably the best first-person shooters available for this system. Battle alien forces in these amazing-looking games, and you'll feel like a true hero)
As for flaws, there are a couple to mention. If it's true that the current versions of this system don't support the old PSOne and 2 games, then you'll be forced to keep your PS2 system hooked up to play them. Also, the system is at its best when on an HD television, and unfortunately I'm without that at the moment. In general, most of the great extras are available to those with the money to spend. I must say I am not one of those.
Still, there's no denying the power this system has. So much capability and universal usage makes this an everything-in-one electronic device. For me personally, I'll be able to continue to see the stories of my favorite video game characters out there, and see it them now at their very best.......until the Playstation 4 comes out sometime in the future.
The debate is over for now. At the end of February, I vow that my entertainment room will contain either the Xbox 360, Nintendo Wii, or Playstation 3.........or all 3 if I'm insanely lucky. Of course, the decision will depend on certain circumstances, but in the end the choice will be mine and mine alone. But now you out there have a choice to make. Until the next post, you must choose what will entertain you now. I've already made my choice for what I want to entertain me now. I have the power, and so do you.
In terms of sale price, the PS3 is the most expensive at $350 for its most basic unit, but for the price it offers an insane amount. Aside from playing games, the system also functions as a Blu-Ray player, Internet capabitlity, and capable of playing videos and music. You basically have an entertainment center in one piece of electronic equipment. The system uses its own hard drive to store your games, and can use an attachment to store game files from PSOne and PS2. However, I've been unable to ascertain if the current versions of the system available allow you to play the older games as multiple sources tell me yes AND no for some reason. The system uses wireless controllers of course, and many accessories available are similar to what you can use for your computer, including a wireless keyboard and an internet camera. Boy, there's a lot to toy with here.
As far as games go, the PS3 has available some of the best games there are. While some are also available on the Xbox 360, the most popular games out there are available soley for the PS3. One game immediately comes to mind: Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots. I had the pleasure of trying out this game for a few minutes, and I know it lived up to its hype. The series has also been my favorite of all time (although Final Fantasy is a close tie, and the next title of that series will be coming out soon), and is reason enough for me to get the system. Several other popular series are also available for the system, including Tekken 5: Dark Ressurection, Silent Hill: Homecoming, and Soul Calibur IV.........all favorite series of mine as well.
Other mentionable games:
- Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe (The next game in this well-known series provides a twist by including comic book characters like Superman, The Flash, and the Green Lantern. Yes, my nerdy-tendencies and slight flare towards violence will appreciate this game greatly)
- Uncharted: Drake's Fortune (This new game got some of the best reviews at the time of its release, and after seeing ads for it, it's not hard to figure out why. Think Tomb Raider with a male lead instead, and a more realistic look to everything. Nothing wrong with Lara Croft, but it's good to see something different)
- Resistance: Fall of Man and Resistance 2(The first excellent game available for the system and its well-received sequel, these games are probably the best first-person shooters available for this system. Battle alien forces in these amazing-looking games, and you'll feel like a true hero)
As for flaws, there are a couple to mention. If it's true that the current versions of this system don't support the old PSOne and 2 games, then you'll be forced to keep your PS2 system hooked up to play them. Also, the system is at its best when on an HD television, and unfortunately I'm without that at the moment. In general, most of the great extras are available to those with the money to spend. I must say I am not one of those.
Still, there's no denying the power this system has. So much capability and universal usage makes this an everything-in-one electronic device. For me personally, I'll be able to continue to see the stories of my favorite video game characters out there, and see it them now at their very best.......until the Playstation 4 comes out sometime in the future.
The debate is over for now. At the end of February, I vow that my entertainment room will contain either the Xbox 360, Nintendo Wii, or Playstation 3.........or all 3 if I'm insanely lucky. Of course, the decision will depend on certain circumstances, but in the end the choice will be mine and mine alone. But now you out there have a choice to make. Until the next post, you must choose what will entertain you now. I've already made my choice for what I want to entertain me now. I have the power, and so do you.
Monday, January 12, 2009
The Downs and Ups of Sunday
I can't call Sunday a "roller coaster" of a day considering the down part came first, and then the up part. But still, I'd rather have a day end on a good note anyways. The first part of the day was very disappointing, but luckily what I had to look forward to later on should easily be able to get me in better spirits........and it certainly did.
The Down: NY Giants vs. Philadelphia Eagles
This is gonna be PAINFUL to talk about, but I'll try my best to get through this. The first half was close enough to keep me from getting completely concerned, but I wasn't happy with the Giants' performance either. First came head coach Tom Coughlin's decision to take the ball against the wind in the field. This also meant that the Eagles would get the ball to start the second half. Why give them that advantage right from the get-go? The next sign of weakness came from an unexpected source.....QB Eli Manning. His passing looked terrible, and even turned into an interception that gave the Eagles the first touchdown of the game. Following that, we had kicker John Carney, one of the best I've seen, miss an important field goal not once, but twice in the game. The only saving grace was our defense, who managed to hold back the Eagles, and keep it close.
Sadly, the steady decline on the Giants as a whole to a free fall in the second half. The Eagles started a short-passing game that our defense never bothered to counter. The Giants tried sticking to a running game that the Eagles defense saw coming constantly. The Giants only made 2 out of 11 or 12 3rd down conversions the entire game. And when the Eagles pulled way ahead in the 4th quarter 23-11, I knew it would take a miracle to get us the win. We had very little time, and needed at least 2 touchdowns to get the win. Of course, we couldn't pull it together, and suffered defeat for the forth time in the last couple of months. What a shame.
The Giants didn't look like the championship team we became last season throughout the last half of this season, that's for sure. Of course I'll still root for them next season, but I would hope that they start working on their weaknesses instead of just their strengths, and hoping that it pays off. Needless to say, I wasn't in a good mood after this game until............
The Up: The Return of "24"
A year and a half.............the LONGEST year and a half of my life. I waited and waited and waited and waited until finally, at 8pm last night, the greatest television show of all time (at least to me personally) made it's way back onto my TV screen. "24" started its seventh season, and this time there was a whole new change. Previous seasons took place in Los Angeles at what was known as CTU (Counter Intelligence Unit) Headquarters. This time, we see that CTU has been disbanded (which is why I didn't get to see the HQ while I was on vacation), and now we are seeing the story in Washington DC. The show kept some general things the same, such as at least some kind of HQ (This time that of the FBI), a look into the current President of the United States (this time a female one played by Cherry Jones), and that fact the we know one of the good guys is a traitor. These of course make the show as good as it is, as well as its many surprises (one of which has been promised for tonight), but some of the changes so far seem good.
Of course the biggest change is the fact that established good-guy Tony Almeida, who is supposed to be dead, is alive AND acting as a terrorist. Wierd. But this works as a way to drive our very important main character Jack Bauer. Having to go after your old partner is tough enough, but we know Jack will do what it takes considering he's killed friends of his before (Curtis Manning, Nina Meyers, and Christopher Henderson to name a few). Hell, what good is the show if it's gonna be easy for Jack to get through the day. That's one of the many reasons why it's such a popular show, and why Jack Bauer is revered on equal ground as Chuck Norris. 'Nuff said.
"24" is a top-notch show for anyone who enjoys action, drama, and excitement. Yes, I get very into this show I'll admit. Still, I can never guess how the season will go, not even now. So I have no choice but to succumb to it's amazing value of entertainment, and watch every single episode so I know the whole story top to bottom. What? Don't judge me because I respect a show this much.
Anyways, I think that's the end of todays blog. The next installment of this series will include Part 3 of The Great Debate just so I can get through it since it's been stewing for quite a while. So look forward to that soon. But now, orders coming from upstairs are tasking you with finding something that's entertaining to you. I will be unable to assist you on this mission as I have been assigned with that very same task myself. This mission is vital and highly classified. You're on your own agent.
The Down: NY Giants vs. Philadelphia Eagles
This is gonna be PAINFUL to talk about, but I'll try my best to get through this. The first half was close enough to keep me from getting completely concerned, but I wasn't happy with the Giants' performance either. First came head coach Tom Coughlin's decision to take the ball against the wind in the field. This also meant that the Eagles would get the ball to start the second half. Why give them that advantage right from the get-go? The next sign of weakness came from an unexpected source.....QB Eli Manning. His passing looked terrible, and even turned into an interception that gave the Eagles the first touchdown of the game. Following that, we had kicker John Carney, one of the best I've seen, miss an important field goal not once, but twice in the game. The only saving grace was our defense, who managed to hold back the Eagles, and keep it close.
Sadly, the steady decline on the Giants as a whole to a free fall in the second half. The Eagles started a short-passing game that our defense never bothered to counter. The Giants tried sticking to a running game that the Eagles defense saw coming constantly. The Giants only made 2 out of 11 or 12 3rd down conversions the entire game. And when the Eagles pulled way ahead in the 4th quarter 23-11, I knew it would take a miracle to get us the win. We had very little time, and needed at least 2 touchdowns to get the win. Of course, we couldn't pull it together, and suffered defeat for the forth time in the last couple of months. What a shame.
The Giants didn't look like the championship team we became last season throughout the last half of this season, that's for sure. Of course I'll still root for them next season, but I would hope that they start working on their weaknesses instead of just their strengths, and hoping that it pays off. Needless to say, I wasn't in a good mood after this game until............
The Up: The Return of "24"
A year and a half.............the LONGEST year and a half of my life. I waited and waited and waited and waited until finally, at 8pm last night, the greatest television show of all time (at least to me personally) made it's way back onto my TV screen. "24" started its seventh season, and this time there was a whole new change. Previous seasons took place in Los Angeles at what was known as CTU (Counter Intelligence Unit) Headquarters. This time, we see that CTU has been disbanded (which is why I didn't get to see the HQ while I was on vacation), and now we are seeing the story in Washington DC. The show kept some general things the same, such as at least some kind of HQ (This time that of the FBI), a look into the current President of the United States (this time a female one played by Cherry Jones), and that fact the we know one of the good guys is a traitor. These of course make the show as good as it is, as well as its many surprises (one of which has been promised for tonight), but some of the changes so far seem good.
Of course the biggest change is the fact that established good-guy Tony Almeida, who is supposed to be dead, is alive AND acting as a terrorist. Wierd. But this works as a way to drive our very important main character Jack Bauer. Having to go after your old partner is tough enough, but we know Jack will do what it takes considering he's killed friends of his before (Curtis Manning, Nina Meyers, and Christopher Henderson to name a few). Hell, what good is the show if it's gonna be easy for Jack to get through the day. That's one of the many reasons why it's such a popular show, and why Jack Bauer is revered on equal ground as Chuck Norris. 'Nuff said.
"24" is a top-notch show for anyone who enjoys action, drama, and excitement. Yes, I get very into this show I'll admit. Still, I can never guess how the season will go, not even now. So I have no choice but to succumb to it's amazing value of entertainment, and watch every single episode so I know the whole story top to bottom. What? Don't judge me because I respect a show this much.
Anyways, I think that's the end of todays blog. The next installment of this series will include Part 3 of The Great Debate just so I can get through it since it's been stewing for quite a while. So look forward to that soon. But now, orders coming from upstairs are tasking you with finding something that's entertaining to you. I will be unable to assist you on this mission as I have been assigned with that very same task myself. This mission is vital and highly classified. You're on your own agent.
Friday, January 9, 2009
Who's Still Entertaining in the WWE?
I've found myself actually watching wrestling over the last week, and it's been better than it has a recent memory. Some storylines are a little more appealing, and even the wrestlers who have talent are given a good amount of spotlight, while the ones that I personally think suck have taken a back seat for a change. Still, I can't find myself getting into every match, and I'm more drawn to the wrestlers who are actually good at what they do. So, for the benefit of those with flash photography..........(wait, that's an old wrestling quote).........I mean for the benefit of the current fans of WWE, I thought I'd mention some of the wrestlers worthwhile to watch on a weekly basis.
Unfortunately, the weekly ECW program has little to offer. Only two wrestlers on that roster are still impressive, and one of them is currently injured. But that's OK, because we've got veteran Finlay there to still hold the torch. He might not be a champion currently, but he still knows how to put on a great match thanks to his experience. And it doesn't hurt to have his midget manager Hornswoggle get onvolved for a few laughs.
Smackdown fairs a little better, but most of its best wrestlers aren't major players. The show does sport two big wrestlers who can actually wrestle: Festus and Vladimer Kozlov. Both have some natural talent, and don't let their size carry them like many others have. On the other side of that coin would be smaller wrestlers like Hurricane Helms and Primo. Helms is the more veteran, and has recently made a comeback after recovering from neck surgery, and Primo comes from a wrestling family, so he's got the skill. Of course, I do have to mention one main event player: Triple H. He's one of the few athletes who can put forth a great character, make his opponents just as good as him, and can wrestle altogether. Definitely the guy the up-and-comers can rely on and learn from.
Of course, the top WWE program is Raw, and boy does the list of talent there carry on more than its other shows combined. CM Punk, Kofi Kingston, Rey Mysterio.......these guys put on amazing matches based on their skill alone. They each offer something unique that you don't see anywhere else. Even their women's division has the top talent compared to Smackdown. Mickie James (my personal favorite), Beth Phoenix, Melina, and Kelly Kelly are the only women I've seen who take their wrestling seriously, and are trained well enough to put on a great match. Also, Raw has in its roster 2 of the best heel wrestlers (bad guys) that compete today: Randy Orton and Chris Jericho. Orton earned his way to his top spot, and from what I've heard he's pretty much a jerk in real life, so he's perfect at playing the villain. As for Jericho, it's hard to describe how good he is. I met him at an autograph signing, and he was a really cool guy. You wouldn't think that he could be an arrogant prick on TV.......but he does it better than anyone. And he's got the wrestling talent to back it all up.
There are 2 other top players on Raw that I absolutely have to mention. First there is the current World Heavyweight Champion, and the icon of this generation. First there was Hulk Hogan, then Stone Cold Steve Austin.......and now we have John Cena. Although there's some mixed feelings about his character, I see why he's where he is. He pushes harder than anyone else, especially himself. He can wrestle, he can use the mic, and he is in great condition to do what he does. Yes sir, he's WWE's best champion right now, and it'll be a little while before the next generation steps up to take his place. In the end though, the one who I feel is the most entertaining is currently the most veteran wrestler still in the ring. The Heartbreak Kid, Shawn Michaels. It's sad that he's not at champion status, and has kind of been there to help others, but he still puts on a hell of a show. No matter what storyline he's involved in, he drives it better than his counterpart, and makes it look real. And when he gets in the ring, he still has the outstanding moves he's had through his whole career. He's been involved in some of the greatest matches ever seen, and there's no denying his entertainment value in any way, shape, or form.
I've made my point. Wrestling has fallen over the last few years, but it may never die. It's still entertaining when it's in the right audience. And for those like me, those childhood memories don't go away easily. I think a future post will have to be a look back at my favorite wrestlers back then, especially those in the WWE's Hall of Fame.
Until that one, you should all know what other posts are coming up. I've got a list going, so make sure to check 'em off as they come. But at this moment right now, when you know this blog is over, you should be searching for your own entertainment. Because the second I hit the "Publish Post" button, I'll be on a search of my own. Get to it ladies and gentleman!
Unfortunately, the weekly ECW program has little to offer. Only two wrestlers on that roster are still impressive, and one of them is currently injured. But that's OK, because we've got veteran Finlay there to still hold the torch. He might not be a champion currently, but he still knows how to put on a great match thanks to his experience. And it doesn't hurt to have his midget manager Hornswoggle get onvolved for a few laughs.
Smackdown fairs a little better, but most of its best wrestlers aren't major players. The show does sport two big wrestlers who can actually wrestle: Festus and Vladimer Kozlov. Both have some natural talent, and don't let their size carry them like many others have. On the other side of that coin would be smaller wrestlers like Hurricane Helms and Primo. Helms is the more veteran, and has recently made a comeback after recovering from neck surgery, and Primo comes from a wrestling family, so he's got the skill. Of course, I do have to mention one main event player: Triple H. He's one of the few athletes who can put forth a great character, make his opponents just as good as him, and can wrestle altogether. Definitely the guy the up-and-comers can rely on and learn from.
Of course, the top WWE program is Raw, and boy does the list of talent there carry on more than its other shows combined. CM Punk, Kofi Kingston, Rey Mysterio.......these guys put on amazing matches based on their skill alone. They each offer something unique that you don't see anywhere else. Even their women's division has the top talent compared to Smackdown. Mickie James (my personal favorite), Beth Phoenix, Melina, and Kelly Kelly are the only women I've seen who take their wrestling seriously, and are trained well enough to put on a great match. Also, Raw has in its roster 2 of the best heel wrestlers (bad guys) that compete today: Randy Orton and Chris Jericho. Orton earned his way to his top spot, and from what I've heard he's pretty much a jerk in real life, so he's perfect at playing the villain. As for Jericho, it's hard to describe how good he is. I met him at an autograph signing, and he was a really cool guy. You wouldn't think that he could be an arrogant prick on TV.......but he does it better than anyone. And he's got the wrestling talent to back it all up.
There are 2 other top players on Raw that I absolutely have to mention. First there is the current World Heavyweight Champion, and the icon of this generation. First there was Hulk Hogan, then Stone Cold Steve Austin.......and now we have John Cena. Although there's some mixed feelings about his character, I see why he's where he is. He pushes harder than anyone else, especially himself. He can wrestle, he can use the mic, and he is in great condition to do what he does. Yes sir, he's WWE's best champion right now, and it'll be a little while before the next generation steps up to take his place. In the end though, the one who I feel is the most entertaining is currently the most veteran wrestler still in the ring. The Heartbreak Kid, Shawn Michaels. It's sad that he's not at champion status, and has kind of been there to help others, but he still puts on a hell of a show. No matter what storyline he's involved in, he drives it better than his counterpart, and makes it look real. And when he gets in the ring, he still has the outstanding moves he's had through his whole career. He's been involved in some of the greatest matches ever seen, and there's no denying his entertainment value in any way, shape, or form.
I've made my point. Wrestling has fallen over the last few years, but it may never die. It's still entertaining when it's in the right audience. And for those like me, those childhood memories don't go away easily. I think a future post will have to be a look back at my favorite wrestlers back then, especially those in the WWE's Hall of Fame.
Until that one, you should all know what other posts are coming up. I've got a list going, so make sure to check 'em off as they come. But at this moment right now, when you know this blog is over, you should be searching for your own entertainment. Because the second I hit the "Publish Post" button, I'll be on a search of my own. Get to it ladies and gentleman!
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
The Great Debate: Part 2
Let it be known now that this debate now has a time limit. My birthday is in February, and by the end of the month I will have determined which of these three systems will be the next one that I tackle. The Xbox 360 was discussed in Part 1, so now lets move on to promising contender Nintendo Wii.
The Wii is its own system, and currently sells for $250, the second cheapest. However, based on the popularity of the system alone, the Wii is hard to find in stores. The main focus of the system is its unique control system, where a sensor by your TV picks up movements you make with the controller in hand. Based on past experience with playing, this approach has its ups and downs. While fun in games that uses specific movements makes it interesting, games with more complicated setups like first-person shooters are somewhat inaccurate. Depending on the game you play, you'll either enjoy it or hate it. The system uses memory cards and its own hard drive for storing game information, has some online features that are actually great for playing some original Nintendo games, and is even compatible with games for the Game Cube. All in all, you have what you need to get started, and the system encourages more play with friends, making it very appealing.
The games available for the Wii are pretty much exclusive to the system. Because of its appeal to younger kids, most of its games are kid-friendly, but many of those same games can be enjoyed by adults. The character of Mario highlights several of its best games, such as "Super Mario Galaxy," "Super Paper Mario," and "Mario Kart Wii;" all of which have gotten great reviews. Also included are game series from Game Cube that are insanely popular. "Super Smash Bros. Brawl" continues pitting the most famous video game characters against one another in some great action, while "Metroid Prime 3: Corruption" continues the first-person action of Samus Aran that keeps you addicted. If you were fans of these games before, it's well worth it.
Other mentionable games:
- Resident Evil: The Umbrella Chronicles (Though very different compared to the regular games of the series, it's still a must-have for anyone highly entertained by the series)
- Mario & Sonic at The Olympic Games (Good for some old-fashioned sporting events where you can play as some favorite characters. Very interactive as well)
- Strong Bad's Cool Game For Attractive People (Although simple in concept, it's a well-done game made for fans of the hilarious HomestarRunner.com website)
Some minor flaws exist in this highly-attractive system. Aside from the control scheme that doesn;t always work, the system lacks the punch in graphics that its competitors have. Although bright and colorful, it's not really geared to amaze. The system also only comes with one controller, and although your friends could bring theirs, you may find yourself buying others just in case. Lastly, like Xbox 360, not too many appealing games are coming soon, which even though some could become hits, not many well-known titles ae expected in the near future.
Lets get to the overall picture here now. The Nintendo Wii is a great way to bring friends together, and it's a nice way to bring you back to the roots of the fun games you played when you were a kid and also making it something new. Not the top choice of mine, but a system that will keep my attention for some time.
You know now that Part 3 will be a look at the Playstation 3, the top dog of this debate but not easily the victor. Also coming up you'll see a preview of TV shows beginning this weekend, and just for fun I'll list some of my favorite superhero powers. You know what this means now? I tell you to find something entertaining, and also tell you that I'm going to do the same exact thing. Think you can handle that?
The Wii is its own system, and currently sells for $250, the second cheapest. However, based on the popularity of the system alone, the Wii is hard to find in stores. The main focus of the system is its unique control system, where a sensor by your TV picks up movements you make with the controller in hand. Based on past experience with playing, this approach has its ups and downs. While fun in games that uses specific movements makes it interesting, games with more complicated setups like first-person shooters are somewhat inaccurate. Depending on the game you play, you'll either enjoy it or hate it. The system uses memory cards and its own hard drive for storing game information, has some online features that are actually great for playing some original Nintendo games, and is even compatible with games for the Game Cube. All in all, you have what you need to get started, and the system encourages more play with friends, making it very appealing.
The games available for the Wii are pretty much exclusive to the system. Because of its appeal to younger kids, most of its games are kid-friendly, but many of those same games can be enjoyed by adults. The character of Mario highlights several of its best games, such as "Super Mario Galaxy," "Super Paper Mario," and "Mario Kart Wii;" all of which have gotten great reviews. Also included are game series from Game Cube that are insanely popular. "Super Smash Bros. Brawl" continues pitting the most famous video game characters against one another in some great action, while "Metroid Prime 3: Corruption" continues the first-person action of Samus Aran that keeps you addicted. If you were fans of these games before, it's well worth it.
Other mentionable games:
- Resident Evil: The Umbrella Chronicles (Though very different compared to the regular games of the series, it's still a must-have for anyone highly entertained by the series)
- Mario & Sonic at The Olympic Games (Good for some old-fashioned sporting events where you can play as some favorite characters. Very interactive as well)
- Strong Bad's Cool Game For Attractive People (Although simple in concept, it's a well-done game made for fans of the hilarious HomestarRunner.com website)
Some minor flaws exist in this highly-attractive system. Aside from the control scheme that doesn;t always work, the system lacks the punch in graphics that its competitors have. Although bright and colorful, it's not really geared to amaze. The system also only comes with one controller, and although your friends could bring theirs, you may find yourself buying others just in case. Lastly, like Xbox 360, not too many appealing games are coming soon, which even though some could become hits, not many well-known titles ae expected in the near future.
Lets get to the overall picture here now. The Nintendo Wii is a great way to bring friends together, and it's a nice way to bring you back to the roots of the fun games you played when you were a kid and also making it something new. Not the top choice of mine, but a system that will keep my attention for some time.
You know now that Part 3 will be a look at the Playstation 3, the top dog of this debate but not easily the victor. Also coming up you'll see a preview of TV shows beginning this weekend, and just for fun I'll list some of my favorite superhero powers. You know what this means now? I tell you to find something entertaining, and also tell you that I'm going to do the same exact thing. Think you can handle that?
Monday, January 5, 2009
Out At Californi-A
My oh my, it's been a little while since I've been on here. I recently had the opportunity to go out to Los Angeles, California for my paid vacation time. Of course, my wife has kept most of you up to date on what we did day-by-day while we were out there. So, I think I'll elaborate on the more entertaining parts or entertainment-themed things we did.
I guess I'll start with the fun little world called Disneyland. I'll admit we didn't get to see everything at the park the day we spent there, but we made sure to hit all the best parts. Of course, many of those consisted of the rides. I'll work may way up to the best ride in the park. Down at the bottom of the list (not neccessarily a bad thing mind you) was the Haunted Mansion. Although this is one of the more classic rides, it gets radically changed to center around the story of "The Nightmare Before Christmas." I actually love this movie, and hoped the ride would do it justice. While it had some nice touches, you could blatantly see what belongs and what is probably more like the original ride. Kinda hard to enjoy then. Similar to that was "The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh." Although it's kind of surreal to ride through, and slightly uncomfortable, this ride hit a soft spot with me because of how it reminded me of some of my favorite childhood stories of Winnie's. A little more interesting was the "Jungle Cruise," which despite the silly jokes by the guide, was more enjoyable when you just pay attention to what's around you. The best of these story-based rides definitely goes to "Pirates of the Carribean." Although I heard the original ride was changed to include the movie trilogy based on it, not many were made, so it still has some of its originality. And it's enjoyable because there's a little more interactivity.
Let's move on to the more intense rides. The "Matterhorn Bobsleds" had the shortest line, so I figured it might not be the best. Although it was still fun, it is actually a little uncomfortable considering the seating arrangement. The "Big Thunder Mountain Railroad" was a step up, but seemed to be the shortest compared to the rest of the rides. "Star Tours" was different compared to these roller coaster rides, but it was more thrilling than the previous ones mentioned (I promise I'm not being biased because it's Star Wars themed either).
As for my favorite ride out all, I have to give this spot to 2 rides. The "Indiana Jones Adventure," while having a long wait, was worth it. It's intense and full of plenty surprises to keep you going. "Space Mountain" kepts your pulsa at the same beat, but stands out because of its "starlight" style and keeping you from predicting what's next. Both rides should be at the top of everyone's checklist if you're going there.
I guess this look at LA wouldn't be complete without the trip to Hollywood Blvd. It's defeinitely a place like no other. You walk down the street, and literally see how they've paid tribute to many celebrities. Harrison Ford, Christopher Reeves, Kiefer Sutherland.......many of my favorite stars were there. It takes quite a bit of time to see them all, but the best ones are easy to find. Also a good attraction is the Hollywood Wax Museum. Although some are a little silly and don't resemble their life-like counterparts, some are dead on, and get you a little creeped out thinking that it's really them.
Of course, there's only one place to go to see one of the greatest tributes to a celebrity: Grauman's Chinese Theatre. Probably the first thing you'll notice before you get there is the many costumed characters standing out front. For a small tip, you can get your picture taken with them. Interesting to do, and pretty fun (you can see me getting attacked by Jason Vorhees, who will be featured in an upcoming blog, in the pictures on our website). Once you get to the very front of the theatre, you see a great tribute to many actors: foot and hand prints in concrete. John Wayne, Marylin Monroe, Steven Spielberg.....they must've known that that moment meant to them that it was all worth it.
I guess this will be a good place to end this blog. Of course there's plenty coming up. A tribute to Jason Vorhees, a look at the Wii system in the Great Debate, and some upcoming reviews thanks to the insane amount of DVDs I received for Christmas. Now, I'm sure you were able to find entertainment for yourselves this past week, so now you're on your own again. As for me, I'm back to finding my own entertainment here at home........not as good as my vacation, but you know something, not bad either.
I guess I'll start with the fun little world called Disneyland. I'll admit we didn't get to see everything at the park the day we spent there, but we made sure to hit all the best parts. Of course, many of those consisted of the rides. I'll work may way up to the best ride in the park. Down at the bottom of the list (not neccessarily a bad thing mind you) was the Haunted Mansion. Although this is one of the more classic rides, it gets radically changed to center around the story of "The Nightmare Before Christmas." I actually love this movie, and hoped the ride would do it justice. While it had some nice touches, you could blatantly see what belongs and what is probably more like the original ride. Kinda hard to enjoy then. Similar to that was "The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh." Although it's kind of surreal to ride through, and slightly uncomfortable, this ride hit a soft spot with me because of how it reminded me of some of my favorite childhood stories of Winnie's. A little more interesting was the "Jungle Cruise," which despite the silly jokes by the guide, was more enjoyable when you just pay attention to what's around you. The best of these story-based rides definitely goes to "Pirates of the Carribean." Although I heard the original ride was changed to include the movie trilogy based on it, not many were made, so it still has some of its originality. And it's enjoyable because there's a little more interactivity.
Let's move on to the more intense rides. The "Matterhorn Bobsleds" had the shortest line, so I figured it might not be the best. Although it was still fun, it is actually a little uncomfortable considering the seating arrangement. The "Big Thunder Mountain Railroad" was a step up, but seemed to be the shortest compared to the rest of the rides. "Star Tours" was different compared to these roller coaster rides, but it was more thrilling than the previous ones mentioned (I promise I'm not being biased because it's Star Wars themed either).
As for my favorite ride out all, I have to give this spot to 2 rides. The "Indiana Jones Adventure," while having a long wait, was worth it. It's intense and full of plenty surprises to keep you going. "Space Mountain" kepts your pulsa at the same beat, but stands out because of its "starlight" style and keeping you from predicting what's next. Both rides should be at the top of everyone's checklist if you're going there.
I guess this look at LA wouldn't be complete without the trip to Hollywood Blvd. It's defeinitely a place like no other. You walk down the street, and literally see how they've paid tribute to many celebrities. Harrison Ford, Christopher Reeves, Kiefer Sutherland.......many of my favorite stars were there. It takes quite a bit of time to see them all, but the best ones are easy to find. Also a good attraction is the Hollywood Wax Museum. Although some are a little silly and don't resemble their life-like counterparts, some are dead on, and get you a little creeped out thinking that it's really them.
Of course, there's only one place to go to see one of the greatest tributes to a celebrity: Grauman's Chinese Theatre. Probably the first thing you'll notice before you get there is the many costumed characters standing out front. For a small tip, you can get your picture taken with them. Interesting to do, and pretty fun (you can see me getting attacked by Jason Vorhees, who will be featured in an upcoming blog, in the pictures on our website). Once you get to the very front of the theatre, you see a great tribute to many actors: foot and hand prints in concrete. John Wayne, Marylin Monroe, Steven Spielberg.....they must've known that that moment meant to them that it was all worth it.
I guess this will be a good place to end this blog. Of course there's plenty coming up. A tribute to Jason Vorhees, a look at the Wii system in the Great Debate, and some upcoming reviews thanks to the insane amount of DVDs I received for Christmas. Now, I'm sure you were able to find entertainment for yourselves this past week, so now you're on your own again. As for me, I'm back to finding my own entertainment here at home........not as good as my vacation, but you know something, not bad either.
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