Showing posts with label Entertainment. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Entertainment. Show all posts

Sunday, April 18, 2010

Death at a Funeral Delightfully Generates Laughter

DeathataFuneral-2010 posterSurprisingly, Chris Rock and Martin Lawrence were relatively the straight-men in this 2010 adaptation of the 2007 British film of the same name.  So don’t look to them to bring their usual stand-up brand of humor to this film, instead look to these two comic giants to graciously tip their comedian hats to an ensemble cast that mesh extremely well together; not to mention,  Director Neil LaBute smoothly orchestrates the flow of screwball action. 

This adaptation is almost a scene-by-scene remake of a 2007 British movie with the same title, and the mysterious guest Frank is played by the same actor, Peter Dinklage , and he's even funnier this time around.  

What was meant to be a respectful solemn service quickly turns into a fiasco,  when dysfunctional kinfolks reunite to mourn the death of Aaron (Rock) and Ryan (Martin Lawrence) beloved father.  While mourners gather at the family home, the descendant’s sons find out that their father had been living on the down-low, and to add insult to injury, their father’s 4-foot tall gay lover shows up, expecting them to pay him generously to keep silent about the affair the sons have a hard time believing ever occurred.

One of the back-stories that makes this comedy stand-out stems from Cousin Elaine (Zoe Saldana) not knowing that a bottle labeled "Valium" contained a next generation hallucinogen concocted by her brother (Columbus Short) when she gives one of the pills to her boyfriend, Oscar (James Marsden).  Marsden takes an old gag of his character, Oscar accidentally freaked out on drugs to bizarre heights, and has the audience doubled over in their seats with laughter.

The widow, Loretta Devine comedic timing is flawless as she seems to acquaint her husband’s death with the absence of a grandchild, a child Aaron’s wife, Michelle (Regina Hall) is so desperate to have, and attempts to get her husband to fertilize her during the midst of absolute chaos.   And as for Danny Glover he is over the top as crabby Uncle Russell, who could easily make a saint want to push him down a flight of stairs, wheel chair and all.   There is so much more to say about this film but time and space do not permit,  just know that Death at a Funeral is delightfully amazing and generates belly-roll laughter.

Sunday, April 4, 2010

Why Did I Get Married Too, Is Worth Seeing Too

why_did_i_get_married_too

Although Tyler Perry's latest couple's retreat theory adaptation was not screened for critics, who knows why the heck not, perhaps because his movies are critic-proof; but regardless of critics and certain audience members not giving this movie the chance it deserves along side the others, it is an entertaining positive portrait of upper-middle-class life, and to top that off, despite critics and nay-sayers, it still earned over $30.1M at the box office during its opening weekend.

Tyler Perry has ascended to the status of media mogul on the strength of his combination of Christian morality, slapstick comedy, and soap-operatic melodrama. In 2005, his play DIARY OF A MAD BLACK...Tyler Perry displays his strength as a media mogul while using a combination of comedy and Christian morality, in this sequel to his 2007 “Why Did I Get Married” Perry continues to provide his audience with positive portrayals of (African-American) characters and family-friendly-subject matter, this film can actually appeal to a broad audience if given a chance beyond the color structure, because the subject matter is universal, and features an engaging cast.

The synopsis of the movie is that, four Atlanta couples who have been friends since college take their (second) annual one-week therapeutic retreat getaway, this time to the Bahamas, to evaluate their marriages and improve their relationships. Terry (Tyler Perry) and Dianne (Sharon Leal) are blissfully happy – but are they really, with two little kids at home. Angela (Tasha Smith) and Marcus (Michael Jai White) fight constantly, probably because she suspects that he's a serial cheater and she's clearly a belligerent lush – but is there something that lays beneath the surface that isn’t known to the other or both. Patricia (Janet Jackson), the bestselling self-help author, and her husband, Gavin (Malik Yoba), appear to be happy but are obviously concealing something, other than the fact that they don’t have the picturesque marriage she portrays they neither have nor the one he claims he wants them to have. And Sheila (Jill Scott) is there with her new husband, Troy (Lamman Rucker), a decent man who's a welcome replacement for her ex loathsome Mike (Richard T. Jones), but Troy appears to be concealing a secret he doesn’t want his spouse to share with the others. And speaking of the ex, Mike, he has the nerve to show up unexpectedly and unwelcomed. But the real melodrama begins when the couples get back to Atlanta, as Mike has an even more shocking and more disturbing secret to share with Sheila and the others. Which almost pales in comparison to the dramatic conclusion of events surrounding the other couple(s), including and especially… Ooops! lets not give this away to those who’ve not had the opportunity to see this entertaining movie.

The movie is enjoyable, it was not as predictable as part 1 or as so many other sequels and movies are, there are indeed some twist and turns not anticipated in this one. Although audiences will doubled over with laughter, they will indeed appreciate the dramatic intensity from the characters & storyline as well.

Monday, January 18, 2010

THE GOLDEN GLOBES – PROVE TO BE GOLDEN

image

According to the Nielsen numbers released today, NBC's Golden Globes broadcast sparkled a little brighter in the ratings this year.

"The 67th Annual Golden Globe Awards" had 14 percent more viewers than last year's show. The three-hour event drew 16.9 million viewers, surpassing the 14.9 million viewers accounted for in 2009.

The event was aired live by NBC in all time zones, rather than delayed for prime-time broadcast in the West, as in past years.

Hosted this year by British actor-comedian Ricky Gervais, who displaced his marketing skills shamelessly promoting himself and his products.

Robert Downey Jr. prove to be one of the big winners of the evening, not only as a recipient of the Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture - Comedy or Musical award, but for his memorable speech as well.

To be continued…

Saturday, November 14, 2009

Cage’s Hardship Is A Little Cagey

According to People Magazine,  45 year old Nicolas Cage, who filed a lawsuit blaming his financial collapse on his longtime business partner, had his two historic French Quarter homes purchased in a foreclosure auction on Thursday.  People Magazine also reported that the houses went for $4.5 million – about two-thirds the appraised value – to Cage's lender, Regions bank, the lone bidder.  Cage's belongings were seen being cleared out by movers on Friday.

And why didn't he take some responsibility regarding his own finances? No one should be too busy to double check the person handling their money.  Just ask Oprah, who has always urged celebrities & others to keep an eye on your own money. 

whine publicly about not being smart enough to keep an eye on his own assets.  I also find it difficult to support the “I’m broke” pity-party of someone pulling down 38 million dollars on one movie.  Geez! He could feed a small country on that salary.

“The lawsuit said the advisor had also failed to alert Cage to the fact that his money was running out, and had over-extended his lines of credit with banks.”

Again, I must point out to those like Cage who don’t seem to know it, but being rich does not negate you from being responsible for your own finances.   If you think you are too important, busy, or wealthy to keep an eye on your own money, than clearly you don’t really deserve to complain when it’s gone.   How is it that there are some so-called stars who can’t seem to be able to handle their own lives without an entourage of assistants, advisors, housekeepers, and what-nots?  When there are so many others who don’t seem to have an issue with handling their own affairs, or keeping an eye on those they’ve hired to do it for them.   Perhaps he should take a page from the book(s) of Oprah, who has stated on numerous occasions, “You must keep an eye on your own money.” Bill Gates, Warren Buffet, and others who also follow a similar philosophy.   I could be wrong, but I’m almost certain the aforementioned are as busy, if not busier than Nick Cage.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Mad Men’s Betty Draper’s Ordeal - Depression or Selfishness?

You do not have to be a television couch-potato, to become a die-hard fan of Mad Men (aka MM) all it seems to take is your undivided attention to an episode – and you could very well become hooked.  Most baby-boomers can appreciate how well the series’ managers to capture the ambiance of the 60s era.  And everyone else can just appreciate the opportunity to be transported back in time and experience what they weren’t able to first-hand.

Writer, Susan Weissman’s recent (11 November 2009) article in The Huffington Post, posed a question that ask, if the alluring Betty Draper  character would smile before next season’s final episodeBetty Draper - Mad Men,   Well, since the third season finale aired Sunday 8 November 2009, and it was a tantalizing cliff-hanging finale, with the promise of a phenomenal fourth season; it’s probably safe to say that MM fans are more interested in the start of the fourth season next year, as oppose to the final episode.

As for Betts (as her husband Don refers to her as), she's what some refer to as spoiled and self-centered.  Most women like Betty who were so use to having the spotlight shone on them that they can't bare to have anyone else upstage them in the attention category, including their own children - so they create a dramatic/depressed atmosphere, starring none other than themselves.  It appears that Betty doesn't smile often because she wants someone to ask her what they can do for her or give to her to make her smile.  Perhaps she is frustrated with her life, because she's not doing much to contribute to her own happiness.

Anyway,  Betts appears to be going from one open-wallet to another  with her latest human-ATM, Hunter, the only thing is, she's not really taking much to the table is she? No, she's a pampered brat who does not work outside the home, but has the nerve to drink and smoke while watching her housekeeper cook, clean, & care for her children.  Yet, she still can't seem to find a way to accomplish any goal she may have had or find anything meaningful to do with her endless free time.

Stripper Nicole Forrester vs Josh Duhamel – By Any Means Necessary.

What's interesting about the story that appeared on Huffington Post, is that anyone would actually find the antagonist, Nicole NICOLE-FORRESTERForrester interesting. 

Strippers are a dime a dozen - they can be found on almost any corner in any major city. What makes one stripper stand out from the others, is when she manipulates, schemes, and managers to get her name in the media by any means necessary.

Nicole, isn't the first gold-digger-stripper who claims to have sex with a well known celebrity in order to get her name on the D-list of Hollywood in an effort to work (oops) her way up to the C-list, nor is she the first, nor will she be the last, to think that any publicity is worth it's weight toward become famous - even if the fame is only as a D-list low-life-wanna-be, party girl that no one takes seriously and too many have had (yuck!). The question shouldn't be if he was good/bad in bed, but what was truly the motive of publicly stating that she had sex (regardless if its true) with Josh Duhamel? To become the buzz of the moment? Well, buzz buzz the moment is over for most, and should just be over.

You can also read the entire Extra story

Stripper Nicole Forrester vs Josh Duhamel – By Any Means Necessary.

What's interesting about the story that appeared on Huffington Post, is that anyone would actually find the antagonist, Nicole NICOLE-FORRESTERForrester interesting. 

Strippers are a dime a dozen - they can be found on almost any corner in any major city. What makes one stripper stand out from the others, is when she manipulates, schemes, and managers to get her name in the media by any means necessary.

Nicole, isn't the first gold-digger-stripper who claims to have sex with a well known celebrity in order to get her name on the D-list of Hollywood in an effort to work (oops) her way up to the C-list, nor is she the first, nor will she be the last, to think that any publicity is worth it's weight toward become famous - even if the fame is only as a D-list low-life-wanna-be, party girl that no one takes seriously and too many have had (yuck!). The question shouldn't be if he was good/bad in bed, but what was truly the motive of publicly stating that she had sex (regardless if its true) with Josh Duhamel? To become the buzz of the moment? Well, buzz buzz the moment is over for most, and should just be over.

You can also read the entire Extra story

Thursday, October 29, 2009

THINK TWICE BEFORE YOU CLICK ON THAT!

image Members of Facebook, Twitter, or any other social networking site, you have been warned; you could be the next targeted victim.  There is a goldmine of personal information on social networking sites and cyber-thieves are cashing in on it.  Don’t let them get your information – think twice before you click on that!

FacebookAll you have do is click it, and you’ll open up that hilarious video of Aunt Bunny falling down the stairs at the family cook-out, it’s just a harmless funny video that your best Facebook buddy wanted you to see;  However when that message or link is opened, the user is lured to fake Web sites that trick them into divulging personal details and passwords.  The phishing attack can penetrate the users’ accounts without their knowledge or consent.  And once that happens, the thieves can continue to penetrate the users’ list of friends or contacts and repeat the attack on consequent victims.

Although you may only hear of a small percentage, malicious thieves are constantly attacking social networking sites.  The continued growth of users on the social networks has made the networks extremely profitable for cyber-criminals and with Facebook users boasting of 150 friends or more; it’s like a smorgasbord of potential victims for the cyber-thieves.

Internet crimes have been around since the inception of the World Wide Web, and malicious software and viruses were usually the result of a prank.  But now, the most common form of malware attack has become known as drive-by downloads. While surfing on Google or Yahoo, a computer virus or spyware is automatically and invisibly downloaded on a computer, requiring no interaction from the user for the computer to be infected.

Not since the abundance of social networking sites and their members has internet crime been so prevalent.  Facebook alone boast that it has a whopping 300 million users, and Twitter, a micro-social-blogging site, has grown to more than 7 million users.

Be mindful of the enticements rampant on such sites as Facebook; you know the ones, claiming that one of your friends has the highest IQ score of the day of 140; he/she wants you to try to beat it.  When they’ve never even seen the quiz let along taken it and challenged you.  Also are those never ending applications that “need to access your account information” in order for you to continue or use it.  And we all know too well from the countless media reports that putting personal photos on any public domain is risky – that innocent pic of you on the sofa is easily Photoshop to show you nude in a compromising situation – for resale on a porn site.

There are a number of reasons Cybercriminals are using phishing attacks, including trying to obtain private information, such as bank account numbers and passwords to perform even greater scams. They also try to redirect users to sites where profit is feed by the number of visitors.  There was even a phishing attack involving one of the popular social sites in which a duplicate of their widely recognized light blue page was used in a hoax. To avoid situations such as this, users should always double-check the URL to ensure they are visiting the correct site.

twitter

Social networks are aggressively fighting back against the attacks from cybercriminals. Most sites have information pages dedicated to educating users about the risks of Internet scams. One of the most common pieces of advice given by security experts is to change passwords frequently.  Facebook has also developed complex automated systems that detect compromised accounts. They spot and freeze accounts that are sending an unusually high number of messages to their friends; and will even go as far as to delete the account.  Ultimately users must be responsible and utilize care while on the Internet, especially when exchanging personal information.  I’m not telling you to delete your social network accounts, just suggesting you use caution while socializing.  If you didn’t request it, or recognize it, think twice before you click on it!

Helpful hints (Provided by FBI and Internet security experts) to protect you against internet scams:

  • Be careful what you click on
  • Change your passwords frequently
  • Adjust Web site privacy settings
  • Be selective when adding friends
  • Limit access to your profile to contacts you trust
  • Disable options such as photo sharing
  • Learn how &  report a compromised account
  • Use security software that updates automatically

If you should ever find yourself the unfortunate victim of Internet Fraud/Theft, here are some links that may be helpful.

BEING RICH/WEATLHY DOES NOT GRANT YOU ABSOLUTION NOR DOES IT NEGATE YOU FROM RESPONSIBILITY

There are far too many hunger, homeless, and unemployment people in America. So when I read articles as those written on: Cage, Rajaratnam, and Lohan; I must admit that to some degree it unnerves me a bit, to think that for some insane reason these individuals somehow think (or behave in a matter) that being rich grants them absolution or negates them from being responsible for their actions, deeds, or affairs. And by no means do I think all rich or wealthy people behave or think along these lines. But there are a number of them that seem to think it’s their God-given right to do so.

First, although I was once a loyal fan of Nicolas Cage I find it

disturbing that someone of his Nicolas Cagesupposedly intelligence could whine publicly about not being smart enough to keep an eye on his own assets. I also find it difficult to support the “I’m broke” pity-party of someone pulling down 38 million dollars on one movie. Geez! He could feed a small country on that salary.

Among other things one of the statements in the article that really stands out for me is,

“The lawsuit said the advisor had also failed to alert Cage to the fact that his money was running out, and had over-extended his lines of credit with banks.”

Again, I must point out to those like Cage who don’t seem to know it, but being rich does not negate you from being responsible for your own finances. If you think you are too important, busy, or wealthy to keep an eye on your own money, than clearly you don’t really deserve to complain when it’s gone. How is it that there are some so-called stars who can’t seem to be able to handle their own lives without an entourage of assistants, advisors, housekeepers, and what-nots? When there are so many others who don’t seem to have an issue with handling their own affairs, or keeping an eye on those they’ve hired to do it for them. Take a page from the book(s) of Oprah, who has stated on numerous occasions, “You must keep an eye on your own money.” Bill Gates, Warren Buffet, and others also follow this philosophy; I’m almost certain the aforementioned are much busier than Nick Cage.

“Cage claimed that his recently-fired business manager had failed to pay taxes when they were due and had placed him in speculative and risky real estate investments "resulting in (the actor) suffering catastrophic losses."

Are Cage and others like him so special they aren’t required to sign a tax return? If not, then it should have occurred to Cage that if he hadn’t signed a return, one had not been filed. I realize for some it is easier to blame others for any and everything that may have gone wrong within your life; but how do you justify blaming or suing someone else for your neglect and foolishness – the police will tell you, that “ignorance is no excuse” for not obeying a law. Granted if someone within your trusted entourage of advisors steals from you, they should be sued and made to repay, but if its bad advice and you accept it, then that’s on you.

As much confidence as I have in my extremely knowledgeable financial advisor, J. Williams; if he were to suggest that I invest in the failed Circuit City stores, I’d be a fool to do so.

In August 2007, Lindsay Lohan was ordered to complete an 18-month alcohol education program, serve 24 hours in jail and perform 10 days Lindsay Lohan1of community service while on 36 months probation for drunk driving, reckless driving and driving under the influence of cocaine. You know the story.

However, because of Lohan’s lack of responsibility, Judge Revel added one year to Lohan's sentence so she could finish the program and suggested the actress complete it as soon as possible. The 23-year-old actress's attorney, Shawn Chapman Holley, told the judge that Lohan's absences stemmed from a miscommunication between her and program administrators. Again, although she’s rich and has the funds to hire an expensive attorney, stylish, etc. she still has to be held responsible and accountable for her own affairs and actions.

Finally, we come to Rajaratnam 52, considered the richest Sri Lankan in the world, was arrested for conspiring with Intel Capital treasury department managing director Rajiv Goel and Anil Kumar, a director of McKinsey & Co. The alleged offenses took place over Rajaratnamthree years

starting in January 2006. The scheme made more than $20 million in illegal profits over several years.

Rajaratnam was released on a $100 million personal recognizance bond secured by $20 million in cash and property. Clearly he’s not hurting for money, but for some bizarre reason he seems to think he’s above following the rules regarding “insider trading” because foolishness and greed will make you ignore the rules as well as the obvious.

All six were charged with securities fraud and conspiracy in two criminal complaints filed in U.S. District Court in Manhattan. Kumar was permitted to be released on a $5 million bond, Kurland on a $3 million bond, and Moffat and Chiesi on a $2 million bond. In California, Goel posted $300,000 cash for bail. The six were also charged in a separate civil complaint by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The SEC said the accused traded on insider information from 10 companies.

Interesting to note, was the prosecutor’s warning shot for the rest of Wall Street, "Today, tomorrow, next week, the week after, privileged Wall Street insiders who are considering breaking the law will have to ask themselves one important question: Is law enforcement listening?" he said. But how effective it will be for the other privileged-law-breakers, is yet to be seen.

In conclusion, a child is a responsibility to its parents. As is being responsible is a requirement of an adult. Responsibility, as defined is an instance of being responsible (accountable): as such, there has to be some degree of accountability for one’s own affairs. Therefore, Cage, Lohan, and Rajaratnam the responsibility for this mess is ultimately yours!

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

BEING RICH/WEATLHY DOES NOT GRANT YOU ABSOLUTION NOR DOES IT NEGATE YOU FROM RESPONSIBILITY

View Being Rich

There are far too many hunger, homeless, and unemployment people in America. So when I read articles as those written on: Cage, Rajaratnam, and Lohan; I must admit that to some degree it unnerves me a bit, to think that for some insane reason these individuals somehow think (or behave in a matter) that being rich grants them absolution or negates them from being responsible for their actions, deeds, or affairs. And by no means do I think all rich or wealthy people behave or think along these lines. But there are a number of them that seem to think it’s their God-given right to do so.

First, although I was once a loyal fan of Nicolas Cage I find it

disturbing that someone of his Nicolas Cagesupposedly intelligence could whine publicly about not being smart enough to keep an eye on his own assets. I also find it difficult to support the “I’m broke” pity-party of someone pulling down 38 million dollars on one movie. Geez! He could feed a small country on that salary.

Among other things one of the statements in the article that really stands out for me is,

“The lawsuit said the advisor had also failed to alert Cage to the fact that his money was running out, and had over-extended his lines of credit with banks.”

Again, I must point out to those like Cage who don’t seem to know it, but being rich does not negate you from being responsible for your own finances. If you think you are too important, busy, or wealthy to keep an eye on your own money, than clearly you don’t really deserve to complain when it’s gone. How is it that there are some so-called stars who can’t seem to be able to handle their own lives without an entourage of assistants, advisors, housekeepers, and what-nots? When there are so many others who don’t seem to have an issue with handling their own affairs, or keeping an eye on those they’ve hired to do it for them. Take a page from the book(s) of Oprah, who has stated on numerous occasions, “You must keep an eye on your own money.” Bill Gates, Warren Buffet, and others also follow this philosophy; I’m almost certain the aforementioned are much busier than Nick Cage.

“Cage claimed that his recently-fired business manager had failed to pay taxes when they were due and had placed him in speculative and risky real estate investments "resulting in (the actor) suffering catastrophic losses."

Are Cage and others like him so special they aren’t required to sign a tax return? If not, then it should have occurred to Cage that if he hadn’t signed a return, one had not been filed. I realize for some it is easier to blame others for any and everything that may have gone wrong within your life; but how do you justify blaming or suing someone else for your neglect and foolishness – the police will tell you, that “ignorance is no excuse” for not obeying a law. Granted if someone within your trusted entourage of advisors steals from you, they should be sued and made to repay, but if its bad advice and you accept it, then that’s on you.

As much confidence as I have in my extremely knowledgeable financial advisor, J. Williams; if he were to suggest that I invest in the failed Circuit City stores, I’d be a fool to do so.

In August 2007, Lindsay Lohan was ordered to complete an 18-month alcohol education program, serve 24 hours in jail and perform 10 days Lindsay Lohan1of community service while on 36 months probation for drunk driving, reckless driving and driving under the influence of cocaine. You know the story.

However, because of Lohan’s lack of responsibility, Judge Revel added one year to Lohan's sentence so she could finish the program and suggested the actress complete it as soon as possible. The 23-year-old actress's attorney, Shawn Chapman Holley, told the judge that Lohan's absences stemmed from a miscommunication between her and program administrators. Again, although she’s rich and has the funds to hire an expensive attorney, stylish, etc. she still has to be held responsible and accountable for her own affairs and actions.

Finally, we come to Rajaratnam 52, considered the richest Sri Lankan in the world, was arrested for conspiring with Intel Capital treasury department managing director Rajiv Goel and Anil Kumar, a director of McKinsey & Co. The alleged offenses took place over Rajaratnamthree years

starting in January 2006. The scheme made more than $20 million in illegal profits over several years.

Rajaratnam was released on a $100 million personal recognizance bond secured by $20 million in cash and property. Clearly he’s not hurting for money, but for some bizarre reason he seems to think he’s above following the rules regarding “insider trading” because foolishness and greed will make you ignore the rules as well as the obvious.

All six were charged with securities fraud and conspiracy in two criminal complaints filed in U.S. District Court in Manhattan. Kumar was permitted to be released on a $5 million bond, Kurland on a $3 million bond, and Moffat and Chiesi on a $2 million bond. In California, Goel posted $300,000 cash for bail. The six were also charged in a separate civil complaint by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The SEC said the accused traded on insider information from 10 companies.

Interesting to note, was the prosecutor’s warning shot for the rest of Wall Street, "Today, tomorrow, next week, the week after, privileged Wall Street insiders who are considering breaking the law will have to ask themselves one important question: Is law enforcement listening?" he said. But how effective it will be for the other privileged-law-breakers, is yet to be seen.

In conclusion, a child is a responsibility to its parents. As is being responsible is a requirement of an adult. Responsibility, as defined is an instance of being responsible (accountable): as such, there has to be some degree of accountability for one’s own affairs. Therefore, Cage, Lohan, and Rajaratnam the responsibility for this mess is ultimately yours!

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Mad Men Is On Point

When Mad Men debuted on AMC in 2007 it quickly became one of the most talked about series on television. The show set in 1960ish New York, focuses on the men and women of Madison Avenue Advertising. The show even made history as the first series to win an Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series; it also won Golden Globe’s Best Television Series – Drama.

One interesting element of the show is that there is a tremendous amount of cigarette smoking throughout each episode, depicting how rampant cigarette smoking was during that era; in the boardroom, the bedroom, and shall we gasp?, even pregnant women; which makes you wonder how/why everyone growing up in the 60s isn’t dead or suffering from cigarette-related cancer of some sorts. The series’ recreation is so on point you can almost feel the burning sensation in your eyes that takes you back to the days of smoked-filled rooms clouded with Camels and Kools.

The show has developed in to such a pop-cultural phenomenon with such a passionate fan base Mad Men continues to surpass everyone’s expectations with each new episode. And the record 4.5 Maddicts viewers tuning into the premiere Season 3, were delighted to learn that the show has been picked up just three episodes into the current season. The captivating world of Sterling Cooper will be back on AMC again next year." said Charlie Collier, president and general manager of AMC. And just in case you’re new to this television sensation -- Mad Men currently airs Sunday nights on AMC at 10pm | 9c.

Even if you’ve not yet become a Maddict fan you may still wish to tune in to catch a glimpse of priceless moments such as the one aired in last night’s episode. The scene begins innocently enough, with an older man walking out of the house carrying three large phone books, chatting with his two grandchildren who are on their way to school; but it’s the look on nine year old Sally’s Draper face as Grandpa Gene presses down on her foot to increase her driving speed from 5 mph to a whopping 25 - 30 mph is one of sheer delightful devilment; as she expertly maneuvers the family’s black Lincoln through the Suburban NY streets during another of her Grandpa’s many escapades; to drop she and her younger brother off at their Grammar school. And if by chance you miss it the first go round at 10pm, the show immediately re-airs in its entirely at 11pm. But the Mad Men Maddicts already know that; so select a time, tune in, and be a Maddict that's on point too.

Saturday, June 27, 2009

MJ Regains His Throne Through A Sold-Out World Of Endless Headlines.

By Chrystal Dorsey



Since the sudden death of Michael Jackson on Thursday 25, June 2009, there has been an endless procession of headlines to note the global mourning and universal tribute to the infamous icon. And the blogs are endless.



Immediately following his death, there was little mention of young boys or any other Wacko-Jacko stabs at Michael; just endless playing of his music and talk of how timeless his works are. – Just how many fans were created with his death? Quite a lot I can image.




The same people in the media who were addressing him as a freak and tried to tear him apart, just to get a story are now praising him and proclaiming an undying respect for him. I and others like me question the sincerity of many individuals’ displayed sorrow.




However, Michael Jackson was a very popular topic on Tweeter. Immediately following the confirmation of his death, somewhere between 600,000 and 2 million people Tweeted about MJ – & of that number I’m certain that a large percentage have either told or laughed at a crude joke about Mike.




I was very much opposed to his behavior towards children. However, I’m not saying that we should condemn instead of mourn. But to those who weren’t actually grief-stricken by his death, there’s no need to pretend that you are.




Here are just a few of the latest headlines:

TIME Mag Rushes Out Jackson Issue by TMZ Staff. You can get a look tmz.com at the cover of the Michael Jackson commemorative issue – being rushed to the newsstands Monday morning.



Mind you, the last time, TIME magazine published a special edition in between weekly issues was in the days following 9/11.



Michael Jackson's philanthropically "We are the World" project still helps Africans.

Filipino prisoners honor Jackson with 'Thriller' show.

Michael Jackson, the greatest.

The death of Peter Pan.

House (of Reps.) holds moment of silence for Michael Jackson.

I suspect had “the moment of silence” been for Elvis there would be no uproar.



It seems hypocrisy plays a large role with regards to celebrities and their relationship with the Media and their fans. Frankly, if you or I (or any non-celebrity) had consumed as many drugs as: Marilyn, Elvis, Anne Nicole, & perhaps Michael Jackson – we’d be referred to as pill-popping low-life Junkies; but they are generally regarded as some sort of Messiah.



There’s nothing wrong with appreciating his music for what it is without glorifying him. And on that note;


I found a disturbing post on WordPress, letter to legend to which the writer not only alluded to but actually professed her undying and unhealthy love for Michael Jackson.



I felt incline to render the following response: “You would have to have had an on-coming personal relationship with this individual to even come close to feeling what you proclaim. And even then, it would be unhealthy. But to feel this way about any human-being, especially one you don't even know is not just sick, it’s eerie.”




Oddly, I’ve read a number of articles & blogs in which writers were grasping a straws not to give MJ his props, some going so far as to claim Michael Jackson was not as popular or as talented as a foreign 60’s boy band – known as the Beatles. Just take a look at the stats and you’ll know that to be false. That said, I am incline to post an abbreviated version a NY Times article, ‘After Jackson, Fame May Never Be the Same’ By DAVID SEGAL Published: June 27, 2009:



“…Fame on the level that Mr. Jackson achieved is all but impossible for pop culture heroes today, and quite likely it will never be possible again.


On the most basic level, this is a matter of business and math. Michael Jackson has sold an estimated 100 million copies worldwide of the 1982 album “Thriller,” which spent more than 31 weeks at the top of the Billboard charts.

It’s one of those high-water marks that nobody will touch, because record stores are vanishing, and along with them, megahit albums are vanishing, too.

…Likewise, Michael Jackson had MTV, which was the place for music videos, and as close to an Ed Sullivan platform as he needed. Of course, it’s been a long time since MTV played hour after hour of prime-time videos. Today, you watch music videos on YouTube, but because there are no programmers to curate what you see, every artist has to compete with thousands of others. And now that anyone with a computer has a miniature studio, and anyone with a Internet connection can post a song, there are more genres, subgenres and artists than ever.

That’s why even Michael Jackson would have a hard time becoming Michael Jackson these days.”



To the naysayers, just as in life (in death) no matter how hard you/they tried you/they will not be able to deny or take his talent away from him.



I trust based on my posts, that I am not deemed to be one of the hypocrites. Again, although I was opposed to (what I learned through the media) his behavior toward children - I was and still am a fan of his work; and I felt no need to tear him down in his death.


Friday, June 26, 2009

Farewell to Neverland’s King of Pop

Michael Jackson: 1958 - 2009, has died at age 50.

He was perhaps the most exciting performer of his generation and the biggest celebrity in the world.

Michael, went into cardiac arrest at his Holmby Hills home in L.A. Thursday (a 911 call was placed shortly before 12:30 p.m. PT), according to TMZ, which first reported the news. Paramedics were unable to revive the singer (who had no pulse upon their arrival), the site reports. He was then rushed to UCLA Medical Center while in a deep coma before passing away,

Michael is survived by three children: Michael Joseph Jackson, Jr., Paris Michael Katherine Jackson and Prince "Blanket" Michael Jackson II.

The seventh of nine children of Joseph and Katherine Jackson, Michael Joseph Jackson was born in Gary, Ind., on Aug. 29, 1958, and began his career performing with his brothers. His professional debut with the Jackson 5 came at age 11.

Jackson’s death brought a tragic end to a long, bizarre, sometimes farcical decline from his peak in the 1980s, when he was popular music’s premier all-around performer.

Michael changed how the world would look at music videos by providing mini-music-movies.

His 1982 album “Thriller” — which included the blockbuster hits “Beat It,” “Billie Jean” and “Thriller” — is the best-selling album of all time, with an estimated 50 million copies sold worldwide. The video for Thriller all but defined the music video genre and helped send the album to the top of the charts for 37 weeks. (All told, it remained on the list 80 weeks.) It was also nominated for 12 Grammys and won eight.

On March 25, 1983, Jackson performed his single "Billie Jean" live on the Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever TV special, where he debuted the moonwalk that was to become his signature move.

One of my favorite MJ videos is “Smooth Criminal.”

Jackson was set to headline 50 sold-out shows at London's O2 Arena beginning in July, billed "This Is It" -- his final London performances.

It’s impossible to include a complete report on MJ – I suggest you check the websites that have devoted endless coverage about Michael’s life and death. You will find numerous photos, videos, and endless text on the life and career of Michael Jackson – a musical mastermind, phenomenon, an icon.

Regardless of his personal drama – Michael Jackson was and will always be a music pioneer who provided the world with a talent they’d not seen and one that will never be matched. He was and always be “The King of Pop.” and he will truly be missed.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/31553183/ns/entertainment-music

Thursday, June 25, 2009

Farewell to Neverland’s King of Pop

Michael Jackson: 1958 - 2009, has died at age 50.

He was perhaps the most exciting performer of his generation and the biggest celebrity in the world.

Michael, went into cardiac arrest at his Holmby Hills home in L.A. Thursday (a 911 call was placed shortly before 12:30 p.m. PT), according to TMZ, which first reported the news. Paramedics were unable to revive the singer (who had no pulse upon their arrival), the site reports. He was then rushed to UCLA Medical Center while in a deep coma before passing away,

Michael is survived by three children: Michael Joseph Jackson, Jr., Paris Michael Katherine Jackson and Prince "Blanket" Michael Jackson II.

The seventh of nine children of Joseph and Katherine Jackson, Michael Joseph Jackson was born in Gary, Ind., on Aug. 29, 1958, and began his career performing with his brothers. His professional debut with the Jackson 5 came at age 11.

Jackson’s death brought a tragic end to a long, bizarre, sometimes farcical decline from his peak in the 1980s, when he was popular music’s premier all-around performer.

Michael changed how the world would look at music videos by providing mini-music-movies.

His 1982 album “Thriller” — which included the blockbuster hits “Beat It,” “Billie Jean” and “Thriller” — is the best-selling album of all time, with an estimated 50 million copies sold worldwide. The video for Thriller all but defined the music video genre and helped send the album to the top of the charts for 37 weeks. (All told, it remained on the list 80 weeks.) It was also nominated for 12 Grammys and won eight.

On March 25, 1983, Jackson performed his single "Billie Jean" live on the Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever TV special, where he debuted the moonwalk that was to become his signature move.

One of my favorite MJ videos is “Smooth Criminal.”

Jackson was set to headline 50 sold-out shows at London's O2 Arena beginning in July, billed "This Is It" -- his final London performances.

It’s impossible to include a complete report on MJ – I suggest you check the websites that have devoted endless coverage about Michael’s life and death. You will find numerous photos, videos, and endless text on the life and career of Michael Jackson – a musical mastermind, phenomenon, an icon.

Regardless of his personal drama – Michael Jackson was and will always be a music pioneer who provided the world with a talent they’d not seen and one that will never be matched. He was and always be “The King of Pop.” and he will truly be missed.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/31553183/ns/entertainment-music