Greg Oden! Please. That's not even a scandal these days.
Portland Trail Blazers often injured Greg Oden apologized profusely yesterday after nude photos surfaced. Photos he took a year and a half ago and sent to his girlfriend. Of course, after the recent Tiger Woods scandal, most people simply chuckled to themselves and said, "Oh Greg. Look at him being all young and foolish."
By the end of the week, no one will even care. Thanks Tiger.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Pass the Popcorn: Up in the Air
It amazes me how many times I've told people that I saw Up in the Air this weekend and they say, "Isn't that dog just adorable."
Up in the Air is about a middle-aged man who's spent his whole life flying from city to city firing employees from companies that don't have the balls to do it themselves. George Clooney stars while Vera Farmiga of the Departed and Anna Kendrick of Twilight fame pick up the supporting duties - all of which, do a great job. Oscar great? I don't think so, but that's not taking anything away from their performances.
The movie itself was a lot of fun too. It took me a little while to settle into the pacing since my expectations had been set artificially high from good reviews and award nominations. But once the plot points began playing out, I really enjoyed the slow-rolling vibe of it all. It's a "coming of middle-aged" film that might not resonate with everyone, but should entertain most.
Is it Oscar worthy? Probably not. I don't think it tugs at enough heart strings to convince voters that it's solid script and quirky sensibilities are top notch. But it is good and definitely worth watching.
It amazes me how many times I've told people that I saw Up in the Air this weekend and they say, "Isn't that dog just adorable."
Up in the Air is about a middle-aged man who's spent his whole life flying from city to city firing employees from companies that don't have the balls to do it themselves. George Clooney stars while Vera Farmiga of the Departed and Anna Kendrick of Twilight fame pick up the supporting duties - all of which, do a great job. Oscar great? I don't think so, but that's not taking anything away from their performances.
The movie itself was a lot of fun too. It took me a little while to settle into the pacing since my expectations had been set artificially high from good reviews and award nominations. But once the plot points began playing out, I really enjoyed the slow-rolling vibe of it all. It's a "coming of middle-aged" film that might not resonate with everyone, but should entertain most.
Is it Oscar worthy? Probably not. I don't think it tugs at enough heart strings to convince voters that it's solid script and quirky sensibilities are top notch. But it is good and definitely worth watching.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Pass the Popcorn: Avatar 3-D
I finally gave into the hype and decided to see Avatar this weekend in 3-D. I was a little skeptical because of all the praise it's been getting over the last month. That much hype usually leads to disappointment at the theater. That being said, it was a very enjoyable movie.
The 3-D experience, however, is what sealed the deal. It really made all of the colors come to life. When I watched the trailer earlier this year, I felt like the whole world of Pandora looked too video game like to work with real actors. But when you watch it on the big screen in 3-D, you don't notice a lot of those criticisms. And it doesn't hurt that there's not a lot of real set pieces, which makes the transition between elements less jarring.
Sure, it's a glorified love story with political overtones. But everything fits within the context of the script, so it doesn't seem too forced like many critics have said. I do think the movie drug on during a couple of scenes. There was simply too much set up and too much second act for my liking, but when you're that entrenched in the world you created, it's hard to fault Cameron for not cutting more out. And I'm still not sure how well the whole thing will hold up in 2-D. But as far as the 3-D experience is concerned, it was worth the price of admission.
I finally gave into the hype and decided to see Avatar this weekend in 3-D. I was a little skeptical because of all the praise it's been getting over the last month. That much hype usually leads to disappointment at the theater. That being said, it was a very enjoyable movie.The 3-D experience, however, is what sealed the deal. It really made all of the colors come to life. When I watched the trailer earlier this year, I felt like the whole world of Pandora looked too video game like to work with real actors. But when you watch it on the big screen in 3-D, you don't notice a lot of those criticisms. And it doesn't hurt that there's not a lot of real set pieces, which makes the transition between elements less jarring.
Sure, it's a glorified love story with political overtones. But everything fits within the context of the script, so it doesn't seem too forced like many critics have said. I do think the movie drug on during a couple of scenes. There was simply too much set up and too much second act for my liking, but when you're that entrenched in the world you created, it's hard to fault Cameron for not cutting more out. And I'm still not sure how well the whole thing will hold up in 2-D. But as far as the 3-D experience is concerned, it was worth the price of admission.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
A.A. Bondy in P-Town
Last night I went to see A.A. Bondy play in the trendy Mississippi St. area of Portland. The experience reminded me of two things.
1. I totally dig the indie folk vibe when it comes to music.
2. Having two kids makes you really old, really fast.
The opening acts started at 9 p.m., which after a long week at work already seemed a little late. Regardless, some friends (who also have kids) and I showed up at the Mississippi Studios, only to find that there were only a handful of seats in the entire place. The whiny D-bag inside of me started to sing.
Shortly after the first act, I was already drained from standing around. It was at this moment that I realized how old I felt. Don't get me wrong. The entire crowd was in their late 20s and early 30s, so I fit right in on the outside. But on the inside...yup, this guy has turned into a party animal Nancy pants.
Shortly after the second act, my dogs were barking. I'm talking full on yapper-dog barking. Not even the micro brews could distract me. I kept thinking, "man, this music is good. But it would be so much better if I were sitting down." Check that, I actually kept saying those words out loud much to my friend's displeasure.
And halfway through A.A. Bondy, who was fantastic by the way, my Saucony Courageous sneakers weren't making me feel courageous anymore. I left before the show was completely over.
Last night, I discovered my limit for standing in bar at 29-years-old while listening to music; three hours. I used to get dropped onto the top of a mountain by helicopter, hike 2 miles to put out a forest fire, sleep over night without provisions, and walk the remaining 4 miles out in the morning without breaking a sweat, but at the ripe old age of 29; three hours of standing in a bar was too much. Like I said, having kids ages you quickly.
Finally, I've got to give Donnie a shout out for his music suggestions. Good stuff. Despite being an old man, I had a great time.
Last night I went to see A.A. Bondy play in the trendy Mississippi St. area of Portland. The experience reminded me of two things.
1. I totally dig the indie folk vibe when it comes to music.
2. Having two kids makes you really old, really fast.
The opening acts started at 9 p.m., which after a long week at work already seemed a little late. Regardless, some friends (who also have kids) and I showed up at the Mississippi Studios, only to find that there were only a handful of seats in the entire place. The whiny D-bag inside of me started to sing.
Shortly after the first act, I was already drained from standing around. It was at this moment that I realized how old I felt. Don't get me wrong. The entire crowd was in their late 20s and early 30s, so I fit right in on the outside. But on the inside...yup, this guy has turned into a party animal Nancy pants.
Shortly after the second act, my dogs were barking. I'm talking full on yapper-dog barking. Not even the micro brews could distract me. I kept thinking, "man, this music is good. But it would be so much better if I were sitting down." Check that, I actually kept saying those words out loud much to my friend's displeasure.
And halfway through A.A. Bondy, who was fantastic by the way, my Saucony Courageous sneakers weren't making me feel courageous anymore. I left before the show was completely over.
Last night, I discovered my limit for standing in bar at 29-years-old while listening to music; three hours. I used to get dropped onto the top of a mountain by helicopter, hike 2 miles to put out a forest fire, sleep over night without provisions, and walk the remaining 4 miles out in the morning without breaking a sweat, but at the ripe old age of 29; three hours of standing in a bar was too much. Like I said, having kids ages you quickly.
Finally, I've got to give Donnie a shout out for his music suggestions. Good stuff. Despite being an old man, I had a great time.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Pass the Popcorn: Terminator Salvation 
McG's version of the Terminator tries to be everything the last one wasn't. Unfortunately, trying doesn't equal succeeding. Despite some slick CGI and decent action scenes, this version of the Terminator was less than convincing. I have a sinking feeling it fell victim to scenes left on the editing room floor, which never helps a movie's cause. There were at least three different times when a scene jumped from one to the next without any explanation of who, what, when, where, and why.
McG's version of the Terminator tries to be everything the last one wasn't. Unfortunately, trying doesn't equal succeeding. Despite some slick CGI and decent action scenes, this version of the Terminator was less than convincing. I have a sinking feeling it fell victim to scenes left on the editing room floor, which never helps a movie's cause. There were at least three different times when a scene jumped from one to the next without any explanation of who, what, when, where, and why. There were also some serious plot point issues that simply weren't explained. John Conner, you must save your father. Who, by the way, is younger than you. Why? We don't feel like telling you.
And the twist that happens three quarters of the way through was obvious one quarter of the way through.
As much as I was holding on to he hope that this Terminator would bring us back to the brilliance originals, I was left empty handed. If this is all the next sequels will have to offer, then I don't really care if "they'll be back."
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Lame!
I lost a little respect for our local sports talk radio station today. They just got done devoting a lengthy segment to a WWF wrestler that was in the studio. WWF wrestlers have to be in shape and all, but anything that's scripted isn't a sport. Thus, it doesn't belong on sports talk radio. Let's class it up a little 95.5.
I lost a little respect for our local sports talk radio station today. They just got done devoting a lengthy segment to a WWF wrestler that was in the studio. WWF wrestlers have to be in shape and all, but anything that's scripted isn't a sport. Thus, it doesn't belong on sports talk radio. Let's class it up a little 95.5.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Pass the Popcorn: The Hurt Locker
The Iraq War has spawned a lot of movies over the years - some good, some bad, and many forgettable. The Hurt Locker falls into the category of Good. It's found most of its traction with film critics but only because general audiences haven't seen it yet. It's intense, a little depressing, but definitely worth watching. I don't want to hype it up and set your expectations too high because that's not the type of movie it is. It's more subtle (maybe not exactly the right word). Regardless, it's not in your face like a lot of war-time dramas, which seem to be driven by heavy anti-war themes instead of character insights.
The Iraq War has spawned a lot of movies over the years - some good, some bad, and many forgettable. The Hurt Locker falls into the category of Good. It's found most of its traction with film critics but only because general audiences haven't seen it yet. It's intense, a little depressing, but definitely worth watching. I don't want to hype it up and set your expectations too high because that's not the type of movie it is. It's more subtle (maybe not exactly the right word). Regardless, it's not in your face like a lot of war-time dramas, which seem to be driven by heavy anti-war themes instead of character insights.
Pass the Popcorn: Extract
Extract is full of unlikable people doing bad things and trying to be likable, which in all seriousness, is unlikable. In fact, the only likable character is Kristen Wig, who is the only character that's introduced as being unlikable. Are you still with me?
To make matters worse, they all eventually got what they want. The idea had potential but potential doesn't equal good.
Extract is full of unlikable people doing bad things and trying to be likable, which in all seriousness, is unlikable. In fact, the only likable character is Kristen Wig, who is the only character that's introduced as being unlikable. Are you still with me?
To make matters worse, they all eventually got what they want. The idea had potential but potential doesn't equal good.
Duck and Cover
I love how after every major earthquake or tsunami, all of the local papers and news stations run the same story about Western Oregon being susceptible to such a catastrophe - as if the findings from 5, 10, or 20 years ago have somehow changed, and we suddenly aren't part of the ring of fire. Thanks, local news, for saving our lives with that nugget of wisdom.
I love how after every major earthquake or tsunami, all of the local papers and news stations run the same story about Western Oregon being susceptible to such a catastrophe - as if the findings from 5, 10, or 20 years ago have somehow changed, and we suddenly aren't part of the ring of fire. Thanks, local news, for saving our lives with that nugget of wisdom.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
The History Channel's Pawn Stars
It's the Antique Road Show for the MTV generation. At first glance you would think, "really, a show about dudes in a pawn shop." But after watching Rick Harrison and his Old Man, you realize that these guys are more than just average Joes. They're actually really smart. Of course, just to balance it out, we get to see Rick's son and his childhood friend man the front of the store; two characters that are below average Joes.
The premiss is simple. People bring in odd items to sell. Rick appraises each unique item and makes an offer. But it's more than just a transaction. With each purchase, we get to learn a little bit about the history of the products ranging from 1700s money to a 1960 Les Paul Custom. Did you know that they didn't started crafting the Les Pauls with a two-piece body until 1969. Well they did. And that bit of information could mean the difference between a $3,000 guitar and $100,000 one.
It's the Antique Road Show for the MTV generation. At first glance you would think, "really, a show about dudes in a pawn shop." But after watching Rick Harrison and his Old Man, you realize that these guys are more than just average Joes. They're actually really smart. Of course, just to balance it out, we get to see Rick's son and his childhood friend man the front of the store; two characters that are below average Joes.
The premiss is simple. People bring in odd items to sell. Rick appraises each unique item and makes an offer. But it's more than just a transaction. With each purchase, we get to learn a little bit about the history of the products ranging from 1700s money to a 1960 Les Paul Custom. Did you know that they didn't started crafting the Les Pauls with a two-piece body until 1969. Well they did. And that bit of information could mean the difference between a $3,000 guitar and $100,000 one.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Pass the Popcorn: My Sister's Keeper
I finally gave into my wife's pleas to watch a movie that chronicled a young girl's fight with cancer. It was profoundly sad. It definitely isn't a movie for everyone. If you don't have kids, you might yawn your way through it. If you do have kids, you may cry your way through it. Regardless, if you're able to connect with the story on any level, it will affect you.
As far as movies go, it started to drag towards the end. But the performances were strong, which can be tough to find when dealing with young actors. And by the time the credits role, you can't help but take another look at your loved ones and your life to make sure your priorities are aligned.
I finally gave into my wife's pleas to watch a movie that chronicled a young girl's fight with cancer. It was profoundly sad. It definitely isn't a movie for everyone. If you don't have kids, you might yawn your way through it. If you do have kids, you may cry your way through it. Regardless, if you're able to connect with the story on any level, it will affect you.As far as movies go, it started to drag towards the end. But the performances were strong, which can be tough to find when dealing with young actors. And by the time the credits role, you can't help but take another look at your loved ones and your life to make sure your priorities are aligned.
Pass the Popcorn: Julie & Julia
I had no desire to watch a movie based on the true story of whiny women who found herself by cooking her way through Julia Child's famous French Cookbook. However, I did have the desire to be prepared for this Award’s Season, so Julie & Julia made its way into my queue.
I was bored at first while each character was being developed, but at least I wasn’t bothered. As the movie progressed, Meryl Streep’s interpretation of Julia Child really drew me in. She was engaging and spot on. Unfortunately, as the movie progressed, Amy Adams’ Character, Julie Powell, became increasingly annoying and undeserving. Overall, it was a good movie because of Streep’s performance but that’s about it.
Friday, January 08, 2010
Pass the Popcorn: Public Enemies
I wanted to like it, but it ultimately was boring and unimaginative. It was also anti-climatic and historically inaccurate. Sorry Michael Mann. I still like Collateral.
I wanted to like it, but it ultimately was boring and unimaginative. It was also anti-climatic and historically inaccurate. Sorry Michael Mann. I still like Collateral.
MagicJack Goes After Cell Phones
Yeah, you've probably heard of the MagicJack - plug it into your computer and get free phone service for a full year...And all for $19.99. Now the MagicJack has created a device that plugs into your computer and acts like a tiny cellphone tower. Use your phone all you want in your house but keep your minutes.
I would say that MagicJack is sticking it to the man, but they made $110 million dollars last year. So in all reality, they are also the man. Oh yeah, the man sticking it to the man. That got a little homo-erotic.
Yeah, you've probably heard of the MagicJack - plug it into your computer and get free phone service for a full year...And all for $19.99. Now the MagicJack has created a device that plugs into your computer and acts like a tiny cellphone tower. Use your phone all you want in your house but keep your minutes.
I would say that MagicJack is sticking it to the man, but they made $110 million dollars last year. So in all reality, they are also the man. Oh yeah, the man sticking it to the man. That got a little homo-erotic.
Thursday, January 07, 2010
Tuesday, January 05, 2010
Does God have a Tim Tebow complex?
These ridiculous statements were cool when they were made about Chuck Norris, but that was like 5 years ago. Now that the sports world has been rehashing them for the last two, they've become as over used as the Got Milk campaign...Got Jesus...Got (insert product here). No, Superman doesn't wear Tim Tebow pajamas because he's still wearing Chucks. And the next talentless hack that thinks about revolving their campaign/news story around such a headline should be fired.
These ridiculous statements were cool when they were made about Chuck Norris, but that was like 5 years ago. Now that the sports world has been rehashing them for the last two, they've become as over used as the Got Milk campaign...Got Jesus...Got (insert product here). No, Superman doesn't wear Tim Tebow pajamas because he's still wearing Chucks. And the next talentless hack that thinks about revolving their campaign/news story around such a headline should be fired.
Pass the Popcorn: District 9
By now most moviegoers know the back-story to this “low-budget” success story. The director, Neill Blomkamp, was plucked from obscurity by Peter Jackson to direct Halo but was later taken off the project. So Jackson decided they would make their own movie. District 9 was the result.
Blomkamp lengthened one of his previous shorts and rest is history. This 30-million dollar gem raked in loads at the box office by under playing it’s special effects and trudging through political themes on racial discrimination, etc., etc. It’s a worthy film that explores depressing topics and character arcs but ultimately prevails.
By now most moviegoers know the back-story to this “low-budget” success story. The director, Neill Blomkamp, was plucked from obscurity by Peter Jackson to direct Halo but was later taken off the project. So Jackson decided they would make their own movie. District 9 was the result.
Blomkamp lengthened one of his previous shorts and rest is history. This 30-million dollar gem raked in loads at the box office by under playing it’s special effects and trudging through political themes on racial discrimination, etc., etc. It’s a worthy film that explores depressing topics and character arcs but ultimately prevails.
Pass the Popcorn: 500 Days of Summer
“This isn’t a love story. This is a story of boy meets girl.” 500 Days of Summer is really a story about life and relationships. It wonderfully shows the progression of a two young professionals as they meet, court, and start dating; all while having two different viewpoints on love, which realistically come from their upbringing. It’s constructed in the now popular jigsaw timeline technique, but jumping from day 429 to 19 to 325 isn’t simply for style. It actually helps the story build momentum. The characters have their quirks but aren’t too quirky while the dialogue is smart without being obnoxious. It’s a script I would aspire write and a movie that gets better days after you watch it.
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