Britney's Circus Comes to Town

Britney's new album Circus drops today. I've listened to all the tracks on her website and I'll be adding them to my iPod soon. My personal favs are the title track Circus, Womanizer, Out from Under, Kill the Lights, Shattered Glass and Unusual You.

I'm super excited for Britney's comeback even though I learned in Britney: For the Record that she does not like for it to be referred to as a comeback. Speaking of which, I watched the documentary last night and I'm pleased to say that Britney came off very well. The documentary gave her a chance to reflect on her life during the past year and give fans an inside look at her life.

The interviewer asked if she knows her life is weird and she says it's all she's ever known. I believe her but her life is weird. For all her fame I think she's a lonely person that has been constricted and manipulated by the media as well as ill intending "friends." She seems much healthier now but she did say at one point that she was sad. I really felt for her in that moment.

Britney said that she wants to do normal things like go to the grocery store with her kids but she can't because of the numerous paparazzi that surround her every move. She mentioned that the only time she can truly be herself is when she's enclosed in 4 walls. That's weird, peeps. I know other celebrities are hounded by the media too but it seems they take it to the extreme in Britney's case. She was even the number one AOL search for 2008. It has to be surreal to know that so many people are looking to see what you're next move is going to be.

But Britney says that she chooses to be a happy person, she loves what she does, she loves her babies and works really hard. I really heart Britney for doing the documentary. She's human and she makes mistakes and has to pay the consequences. She knows it and she wants to get better. I think things can only improve from here. She's got a lot of fans behind her and with the right people on her team and I think she'll be healthy and happy.

I put a teaser of her Circus video below. I can't wait to rock out to her new album. Happy Birthday, Brit!!

Circus Countdown

Happy Thanksgiving!

If you're reading this blog today I hope you're having a wonderful Thanksgiving! I don't want to spend too much time away from the turkey (or my family) so here is a short list of things I'm thankful for.



1. My wonderful husband

2. My family (in-laws included) :)

3. Being an American

4. Great friends

5. Movie dates with my husband and the face game we play.

6. Warm fuzzies

7. Starbucks

8. Laughter

9. Best Week Ever and The Soup

10. My iPod and laptop-where would I be without the power of modern technology?



What are you thankful for today? Happy Thanksgiving!!

Madonna Fever

Last night my husband and I saw Madonna at the Phillips Arena in Atlanta. The concert was of course, part of her Sticky and Sweet Tour. The show was absolutely fantastic, extraordinary, amazing, awesome, splendid, out-of-this-world and a whole bunch of other adjectives I can't even think of at the moment. I plan to post a full review this weekend but due to holiday time constraints, I'm posting a couple of videos from her concerts in other cities. The videos don't fully capture the essence but I think you'll get the idea.

GIVE IT 2 ME: New York-Explicit




Devil Wouldn't Recognize You-Lisbon

Twi-what?

So apparently, Twilight is the next Harry Potter book and film distraction/fixation. That's what I gather anyway from the mounting mania over the premiere of Twilight this weekend. I perused pieces of flair on Facebook this weekend and as I'm sure many Facebookers know, there are approximately 8,000 pieces of flair from which to choose. Right now, 3,000 of those pieces are dedicated to Twilight stuff.

I'm all for displaying fandom but if I see one more piece of flair that says "I love Edward Cullen" or "Twilight is real" or "Edward and Bella are the new Romeo and Juliet" I may just suck my own blood out.

Peeps have really lost their minds over this Twilight stuff. Just ask the poor kids that got trampled.

Having said all this, I'll probably got to the movie cause it looks pretty cool but I'm not going to stick out my neck (so to speak) to see it.

P.S. Thanks for the post title J!

Maxi-mum Blush

Makeup artistry has reached a new level of C-razy. Meet Maxi, a contestant on Lifetime's Blush: The Search for the Next Great Makeup Artist. I think the clips below are self-explanatory. Just stick with the first one until you reach 2:48. After that, Maxi's ego actually takes on an even bigger ego.




Next, allow Joel McHale of The Soup to commentate on Maxi's dream come true.



I hope Maxi can stick around to delight and enthrall for the entire season!

If I Were A Boy or Maybe a Songwriter

A couple of weeks ago I tweeted that Beyonce's single, If I Were a Boy reminded me of another song. I went on a Google search to see if she sampled the melody from an old song and found out more interesting information. Apparently, Beyonce did not write this song and there is some controversy about how she obtained it. Meaning, did she violate the copyright? The song was actually written by BC Jean You can listen to her version here.



I've listened to both versions and Beyonce sings it way better. I seriously doubt that she stole a song from a writer. Too much drama!! I can't pin down a reliable source on this so I give Miss B the benefit of the doubt and think that BC Jean was or will be handsomely paid for her song writing skills.

Beyonce's Split Personality

So I'm sure many of you peeps are aware that Beyonce is coming out with a new album that drops today. What you may not know is that the title, I Am...Sasha Fierce is derived from Beyonce's self-proclaimed diva on-stage personality. I remember reading an article about Beyonce's other personality a few years prior to her marriage to Jay-Z.

I suppose having an alter ego helps keep things real? You let the alter-ego take over when you're on stage and get to be super dramatic and then return to your normal self when the lights go down? I think that's what Beyonce's trying to say.

"The new record is a double album and has two covers, like a magazine would have two covers," Beyoncé revealed. "One of the covers is named I AM... and the second cover is named SASHA FIERCE. That is my alter ego and now she has a last name. I have someone else that takes over when it's time for me to work and when I'm on stage, this alter ego that I've created that kind of protects me and who I really am. That's why half the record, I AM... is about who I am underneath all the makeup, underneath the lights, and underneath all the exciting star drama. And SASHA FIERCE is the fun, more sensual, more aggressive, more outspoken side and more glamorous side that comes out when I'm working and when I'm on the stage. The double album allows me to take more risks and really step out of myself, or shall I say, step more into myself, and reveal a side of me that people only know me see." Source

Didn't Garth Brooks try this other personality thing a few years ago? Wait, maybe this is different because Beyonce's personality Sasha Fierce still sings the same songs as Beyonce does and the style hasn't changed at all? Did she consult with Garth before putting this album out? Did she get tip like, "Beyonce, whatever you do, don't change you're hairstyle and your actual music persona because the fans don't take too kindly to it."

Seriously peeps, do you remember that Garth incident? I was never a big Garth fan; country's just not my thing. But I could appreciate the fan base and the fact that Garth was an amazing performer and song writer. Then he decided to go kinda crazy. He took a risk and it just didn't work out.

I'm sure Beyonce/Sasha will have better luck.

To Boldly Go Where No Trekkie Has Gone Before

Space, the final frontier. These are the voyages of the Starship Enterprise...

Space is now J.J. Abrams' final frontier as he takes on Star Trek in the motion picture due out in May 2009. This trailer looks awesome and I believe that Abrams can do no wrong; he's one of the creators of Lost afterall. Check it out!!

ICYMI - STAR TREK TRAILER @ Yahoo! Video

Bond, James Bond

I checked out Quantum of Solace this weekend. Yes, it was worth the theater whiplash from 2nd row seating. The theater was packed! I'm not giving away details on this one. If you're a fan of James Bond, you'll want to see this for yourself. I'll give you one hint. The world's most precious resource is not what you think!

Daniel Craig was hot (as usual and expected) but he stayed dirty and bloody almost the entire movie. So he was hot in a dirty way. And I can't complain about having Daniel Craig up close and personal due to my theater seat.

I enjoyed Casino Royale more than Quantum of Solace but that's because I like my Bond to be in a tux with a shaken martini in hand at all times, Sean Connery style. But this latest James Bond flick is definately worth seeing on the big screen and I'm sure will have a future in my DVD collection.

MandyBomb's Bond Ranking:


Sean Connery: Classic, ultra sexy and suave

Daniel Craig: Hot!! Intense and debonair.


Pierce Brosnan: Pretty boy turned bad boy

Timothy Dalton: Snooze

Roger Moore: I was always too distracted by the mole on his cheek and atrocious 70's outfits to notice anything except that I did not believe he was the true James Bond.


George Lazenby: Who?


What they should bring back to the new Bond Films:

More gadgets.

Bond receiving the gadgets for his new mission from the inventors in the super secret lab.

Women with sexually suggestive names. (just for kicks)

Miss Moneypenny

A Farewell to Michael Crichton

I'm paying my last respects to author Michael Crichton. I'm really sad about his passing away. He died on November 4, after a long and private battle with cancer. He was and will continue to be one of my favorite authors.

I remember seeing Jurassic Park when I was 16 during summer vacation. After seeing the movie, I had to read the book. The book was exceedingly better than the movie; no offense to Stephen Spielberg. In recent years, I've read State of Fear, Prey, Next and The Terminal Man. The Andromeda Strain is currently in my reading queue.

For me, Crichton's books are thoroughly addictive. I love his writing style and the blending of science, medicine and technology into the thriller genre. He was brilliant and I'm missing new novels from him already.

I would like to say thank you to Michael Crichton for making reading so enthralling for me and inspiring me as a writer. His novels made me think critically about science, politics, ethics and philosophy and piqued my curiosity about the fascinating world in which we live.

A fond farewell goes out to this exceptional author and my deepest sympathies to his family.


Michael Crichton Official Site

Source Source Source

Madge, Brit Brit and JT-Probably Together for One Night Only

I've purposfully avoided Madonna concert info and pics because I want to be surprised and delighted when I go see her in Atlanta. But this news cannot be ignored! I recently learned that Britney and JT appeared live and on-stage (not simultaneously and not in matching denim outfits) for Madonna's LA concert.

Why do these LA peeps get all the preferential treatment? For the love of Kabbalah! Please Brit Brit and JT, I just want you to show up to the concert in Atlanta. Can you imagine? Three of my fav pop artists on stage on the same night! One can only dream...



Source, Source

VOTE!!!

I hope those of you reading this post today will do your duty and go vote. I'm voting because I care about the future of my country and it's my responsibility to make informed decisions about the individuals leading it. Below is a video from our Hollywood friends, encouraging people to vote. If you don't believe me, perhaps their celebrity charm will influence you. Voting is important and every vote matters. I believe it's the greatest freedom we have in America.
So get out and vote peeps!

You Can Vote However You Like

The talented kids at Ron Clark Academy perform You Can Vote However You Like, a parody of T.I.'s Whatever You Like. Just a little something to get you in the mood to vote.




Lyrics:

Obama on the left
McCain on the right
We can talk politics all night
And you can vote however you like
You can vote however you like, yeah

Democratic left
Republican right
November 4th we decide
And you can vote however you like
You can vote however you like, yeah

(McCain supporters)
McCain’s the best candidate
With Palin as his running mate
They’ll fight for gun rights, pro life,
The conservative right
Our future is bright
Better economy in site
And all the world will feel our military might

(Obama supporters)
But McCain and Bush are real close right
They vote alike and keep it tight
Obama’s new, he’s younger too
The Middle Class he will help you
He’ll bring a change, he’s got the brains
McCain and Bush are just the same
You are to blame, Iraq’s a shame
Four more years would be insane

Lower your Taxes - you know Obama Won’t
PROTECT THE LOWER CLASS - You know McCain won’t!
Have enough experience - you know that they don’t
STOP GLOBAL WARMING - you know that you won’t

I want Obama
FORGET OBAMA
Stick with McCain and you’re going to have some drama
We need it
HE’LL BRING IT
He’ll be it
YOU’LL SEE IT
We’ll do it
GET TO IT
Let’s move it
DO IT!

Obama on the left
McCain on the right
We can talk politics all night
And you can vote however you like
You can vote however you like, yeah

Democratic left
Republican right
November 4th we decide
And you can vote however you like, I said
You can vote however you like, yeah

I’m talking big pipe lines, and low gas prices
Below $2.00 that would be nice

But to do it right we gotta start today
Finding renewable ways that are here to stay

I want Obama
FORGET OBAMA,
Stick wit McCain you gone have some drama
MORE WAR IN IRAQ
Iran he will attack
CAN’T BRING OUR TROOPS BACK
We gotta vote Barack!

Obama on the left
McCain on the right
We can talk politics all night
And you can vote however you like, I said
You can vote however you like, yeah

Democratic left
Republican right
November 4th we decide
And you can vote however you like, I said
You can vote however you like, yeah

Joaquin Away From Acting

Joaquin Phoenix made the shocking announcement at a benefit for a Paul Newman charity that he is retiring from acting to focus on his music. Check out this totally random and awkward interview with Joaquin and E! Apparently Joaquin is passing the torch to Casey Affleck? Huh!? I don't get it. See for yourselves.





I know Joaquin was excellent in the role of Johnny Cash in Walk the Line and I really feel he was robbed of the Oscar. Until that movie, I didn't know he could sing but apparently, the movie was his source of inspiration. It seems totally weird the way he's making this statement to quit acting. He seems totally out of it and why is he mumbling so? I really like Joaquin as an actor. I don't know how this music career will pan out for him but I wish him the best and hope he reconsiders banishing the silver screen.

Letterman Takes on The Hills

During this clip of Hills' star Lauren Conrad's recent appearance on David Letterman. Letterman suggests she might be the problem with her troubled BFF relationships. Finally, someone pointed this out. Lauren has been a bit bossy and controlling of her friends' relationships for the last two seasons. What gets me about Lauren is that she's friends with Stephanie Pratt, who yelled at her in a club about being mean to Spencer and Heidi but she can't reconcile her relationship with Heidi? Why can't she hang out with Heidi when Spencer's not around? Why does Spencer spend so much time pontificating how he hates Lauren? I guess because he gets paid $65,000 to do so. Anyway, Lauren does bust out with a funny quip about Spencer during this clip. Ah, it must be nice to be famous for nothing.

Too Late for the BWE Internship

Best Week Ever is one of my fav shows of all time. That's just one reason why I should be their intern. I majored in communications in college and my concentration was media studies. I learned neat things like how to write copy for newspapers, radio and TV and how to to maintain direct eye contact while on camera. I know, I'm sure you're all astounded. How did I have time to get an education while watching TV and surfing the Internet constantly? That part remains a blur to me but what I do know is that I could combine my love of pop culture, sarcasm and mad communications skillz to be an awesome intern. Sadly, you have to actually be in college to qualify for the BWE internship. Boo! :(

I suppose I'll have to put in my resume to Team Britney and hope for the best!

PCD Wants Groupies, Not Boobies?

OK, I semi-despise myself for admitting that I listen to the Pussy Cat Dolls and that I rock out to them in my car or while I'm doing housework. I've had their song When I Grow Up in my iTunes for a while and I, like I think many other peeps were doing, having been singing the lyrics as "when I grow up, I wanna have boobies." I only recently learned that apparently PCD is slightly more refinded and they actually said "groupies."

Why does this lyric discovery disappoint me? I guess because when I was little I didn't think about having groupies when I was grown but I sure did think about having boobies. I just think boobies makes more sense. Yes, I'm immature. I've accepted it.

Lost in 2009!!

I'm so excited (verging on Jessie Spanno style) for Season 5 of Lost! 4,8,15,16,23,42...I think it's gonna be an awesome season, brotha!

Sweet Salaries in The Hills

OK peeps, I know this is super old news but I had forgotten about it until I was recapping this week's episode of The Hills with a friend. Way back in August, In Touch Weekly got a hold of the salaries for the stars of MTV's prima donna fashioned reality show. I posted the list below so you can see for yourselves. Keep in mind that these salaries are not annual. THEY ARE PER EPISODE.


Lauren alone makes $75,000 per episode and the rest of the cast follows suit. I used to think it'd be great to make $75,000 in a year. That's a decent salary! But $75,000 per episdode? Per Episode? Blood may come shooting out of my eyeballs! (to borrow a phrase from Glenn Beck)

Do they pay Lauren by how many times she paints her nails? Whitney by each facial expression and OMG? Spencer every time he offers a snide remark or by the length of his flesh colored beard? The Soup video below may prove both enligtening and entertaining on this point.

Lauren Conrad: $75,000 / episode
Heidi Montag: $65,000 / episode
Spencer Pratt: $65,000 / episode
Audrina Patridge: $35,000 / episode
Whitney Port: $20,000 / episode
Brody Jenner: $10,000 / episode
Lauren “Lo” Bosworth: $10,000 / episode
Stephanie Pratt: $8,000 / episode

Source, Source, Source

LC and Heidi Hug It Out-Courtesy of Extra

Last week a "chance" meeting between Lauren Conrad, Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt gave the girls some time to chat, cry and hug. According to sources, the story goes like this, Lauren was celebrating at STK restaurant after debuting her Spring/Summer '09 fashion line. Speidi happened to be at the restaurant at the same time and Heidi charmed an Extra reporter into setting up a private convo with Lauren. The estranged B-Fries talked, cried and hugged. Heidi declared her love for Lauren and Spencer offered congratulations.

You can read the reports for yourselves peeps. I only have one question: is this going to be the season finale of The Hills?

Source, Source

Whitney and The City

After The Hills on Monday, the MTV audience was treated to a preview of Whitney Port's spinoff show, The City. The show is scheduled to premiere on December 29 at 10pm. The Hills Aftershow talked to Whitney about the differences between The Hills and The City. Whitney says that NY has more sophistication and she has less drama.

On Whitney's show we'll view her life as she works for Diane von Furstenberg, dates boys and contorts her face into countless over-expressions. Hooray! I'm glad for Whitney and her new show. Of all the pretentious prissies on The Hills, she seems to be the most sensible and appears to actually work for a living. Imagine!

Whitney promises that her show will be very unique. Very unique? Sheesh, somebody get this girl an AP Stylebook. Well, I guess I forgive her even though very unique is my pet peeve #129.

Good luck, Whitney! See you in the Big Apple!

P.S. Watch out for Olivia, I can tell by the preview that she looks shady already.

Source, Source

I'm a PC Too!

I haven't mentioned just how much I love those new Windows/PC commercials. I'm a sucker for marketing but I finally feel justified in loving my PC.

Let me share an Apple story with you peeps. One time in college (I know this is starting off like one time at band camp...) I had to go to the computer lab to write a paper and all the PC's were occupied. I figured I'd get on a Mac and do my work. How hard could it be? But I quickly discovered I might as well have been trying to read Hindi. The icons made no sense; I couldn't locate how to create the Apple equivalent of a Word document. I was too embarrassed at the time to ask one of the stationed computer helpers for assistance. Macs were cool and I didn't want to not know how to use one. I looked around and pretended that I'd forgotten some research materials and snuck back to the library. I had to stalk the computer lab door to wait for a PC user to leave their post. If I had been raised on an Apple I think I would love it but I'm a PC girl through and through.

Then I had to start suffering through those Apple commercials with the nerdy looking PC representative and the fresh young Apple dude. It was like Bill Gates and the people at Microsoft had been inadvertently sucked into their own Windows program and error messages wouldn't let them retaliate. Where was the comeback?

But then, as if by a stroke of software genius, these PC commercials began appearing more frequently than pop up advertisements on the Internet. PC is not a stereotype peeps! I love it. Long live the PC!

JT Will Not Bring SexyBack

Dear JT,

I've been watching you since your N'SYNC days and you were cute then but when you busted out on your own, I knew you would be a superstar and not a one hit wonder. I've listened to your debut solo album a zillion times and it always gets better and better.

Then you brought Sexyback and it made me swoon. Now I hear that you're retiring the song that made you uber chic. Why?! I know Sexyback is so 2006 but peeps still love it. At least, I still love it. Am I the only girl that still loves it?

Anyway JT, I really want you to keep bringing Sexyback. Are you afraid that Sexyback is all you'll ever be known for? You're not like Frankie Goes to Hollywood or Deep Blue Something. You're Justin Freakin Timberlake! You were on the Micky Mouse Club and part of the boy band revolution.

You're on my list of muscians to see in concert and I wanted a live rendition of Sexyback. Are you telling me that my dream is dead? OK, I understand. Just don't tell me to cry you a river.

Forever yours,

Mandybomb

The Duchess (not the Fergie version)

Spoiler Alert!

This movie was a beautifully executed period piece. All the actors did a great job; there was a very natural feel to their performances. Each actor seemed to perfectly fit into 18th Century Britain. Ralph Fiennes was great as a cold controlling duke and Keira Knightly played an innocent turned scorned and broken hearted wife. The movie score was excellent and the detail in the costumes, sets and scenery was spectacular.

The movie details the early adult life of Georgiana Spencer and is based on Amanda Foreman's book Georgiana: Duchess of Devonshire. This movie has gotten lots of press, partly because Georgiana is the direct ancestor of Princess Diana and people have proclaimed Duchess Georgiana the original "it girl." She had fabulous style, liked to party and a varying degree of political influence as well.

The Duchess focused mainly on her unhappy marriage to the Duke of Devonshire. In case you didn't pay attention in history class, back in the 1700's, women were more like property and in high society marriages were arranged for the procurement of land, wealth and heirs.

It breaks down like this, at the age of 17, Georgiana is married away to the Duke of Devonshire in the promise that she will give him a son. Soon she learns that he seems incapable of compassion and passion toward her but his wondering eyes and hands contribute to numerous affairs. One of those affairs results in an illegitimate daughter, whom he allows to come live with him and the Duchess after her mother dies. Georgiana raises the child as her own and in the meantime, produces two daughters of her own with the Duke.

She becomes friends with Lady Elizabeth Foster, who is the victim of an abusive husband. The estranged husband is also keeping her three sons away from her. Georgiana invites Elizabeth to stay with her and the Duke until she can get back on her feet. Unfortunately, the Duke decides to take Elizabeth on as his mistress. Georgiana feels betrayed pleads with her husband to banish Elizabeth from the house but he refuses. Things go from bad to worse in the marriage and the Duke rapes Georgiana during one altercation, which results in the conception and ultimate birth of their son.

Things settle down a bit after their son is born but Elizabeth stays on as mistress and Georgiana begins to wish for a lover of her own. She turns to Charles Grey, a childhood friend and leader in the Whig political party, with aspirations of becoming Prime Minister. She begins a secret affair with him but is quickly discovered by her husband and her mother. She is forced to cut off the relationship with Charles and doomed to a life with her husband and his mistress. But then she reveals that she's pregnant with Charles' child and the Duke decides to send her away to the country until after the child is born to prevent any scandal. She has to give up the baby girl to Charles Grey's family. She then reenters society and she and the Duke and Elizabeth come to an agreement to live happily/unhappily ever after.

I haven't read the book so I don't know if the movie is an accurate portrayal but it seems that they got the cultural part spot on. I'm always intrigued by the way people lived in times past. There are so many fascinating aspects. Chivalry, fashion, socially accepted practices like keeping a mistress, politics, etc.

I'm disappointed that the movie didn't focus more on Georgiana's leadership role in the Whig party and stuck to the romantic and angst themes. I think it would have made for a stronger movie. What I could not stand about this movie is that her friends and family called Georgiana "G." Was that nickname historically documented? I'd like to know. I ground my teeth every time they called her that. It just didn't sound right for 1700's.

Despite my dissatisfaction with those couple of things, I really enjoyed the movie and it could very well end up in my DVD collection. If you like historical biography and period pieces, you'll enjoy the Duchess.

Womanizer Gets Soupy

LOL!! Of course I still love Britney but I have a sense of humor too and Joel McHale is hilarious with this stuff.

Gimme More Britney!

Britney Spears has finally launched her revised official website. I've been all over the site and I'm pleased to say it's better than ever. It's got a semiblog format and all kinds of superfun applications like Twitter and Facebook. Of course I immediately signed up for everything I could. I love it!

All kinds of craziness (the good kind) is going on for Britney these days. Her song Womanizer has jumped to number 1 on the Billboard charts. It's a record ya'll, she went from debut at 96 to number 1 in a week. She's going to be on the cover of Rolling Stone, her new album Circus drops on December 2, she has a TV special with MTV on November 30 and she plans to tour in 2009. Whew! So much Britney I can hardly stand it! I'm so psyched that the old/new Britney is back and bringin it full force. Go Team Britney!

Ringo Tells Fans to Let it Be

Former Beatle Ringo Starr announced this week that he will no longer accept fan mail. He warned fans "with peace and love" that he had too much to do and that mail sent to him after October 20th will be considered rubbish.

I've been a Beatles fan for a while and although I haven't paid much attention to Ringo's solo career I'm sad that he's refusing to answer fan mail. It almost makes me want to write a letter and mail it today just to see if I'd get something back. But I'm too lazy to fiddle with international stamps.

In any case, I guess Ringo will be getting by without a little help from his friends, er fans that it is. I know he's been a Starr (pun intended) for the majority of his life and I'm sure it's exhausting to sign your name 100 bizillion times but I think celebs should remember who put them into celebrity status. People love them and just want to connect.

You can check out Ringo's video message below. I think he kind of comes off as a crotchety old man who's tired of playing with the grand kids instead of the easygoing hippie persona we usually see. So peeps, if you don't want your letter to Ringo end up in the circular file better get it done today. I'm warning you with peace and love!

Eagle Eye

I checked out Eagle Eye on its opening weekend and it was decent. Lots of action sequences and chase scenes. If you like action, government conspiracy and technology, you'll like this movie. It reminded me a bit of 2001: A Space Odyssey. Think HAL with a smooth female computer voice and your cell phone on speed dial. There was definitely an underlying political theme to the movie or maybe it wasn't so underlying if you paid attention.

Shia LaBeouf was relatively convincing as a social slacker thrust into chaos and corruption. The end was very predictable once you understood the twist but the plot was interesting. This post is long overdue so you peeps have probably already seen the movie or are waiting for it to come out on DVD. I rate it as a 6 on a scale of 1 to 10. This movie goes well with popcorn and government omnipotence.

Baby One More Time

Checking out music news today, I learned that Britney Spears plans to tour in 2009. The tour will include songs from her upcoming album, Circus and will be her first tour since 2004. I really didn't have the time or means to attend one of her shows while she was in her heyday but this could be my chance. I'm super psyched! This could be the best comeback ever!

Source, Source

Brit Brit for the Record

MTV will release a new Britney Spears documentary on November 30th. I've watched the preview and I'm happy to report that so far it bears no resemblance of that disastrous Matt Lauer interview from a couple of years ago. Britney appears to be cognisant of her whereabouts and there are no mascara tears in sight!

Her new album, Circus debuts December 2, so this documentary will be extremely timely and I'm sure Britney's camp is hoping it will boost sales. Check out the preview below.

• MTV
• Music Videos
• MTV Shows
• Entertainment News

Bye Bye Baby!

Reports confirmed today that Madonna and Guy Ritchie are officially calling it quits. It seems that nothing is on paper yet but Madonna’s rep says that they will divorce. Meanwhile, there are also reports that Alex Rodriguez is once again snuggling up to Madge.

I’m pretty bummed that Madonna and Guy are divorcing. The two seemed really happy for the longest time and it appeared that their relationship was solid. I suppose Guy could just consider the divorce another of Madonna’s reinventions. I guess she turned herself British with this one?

But forget about Madonna and Guy for a moment. How will this divorce affect me!? I have tickets for Madonna’s concert on November 24; that’s only 39 days away peeps! If this divorce causes issues with the concert and Madonna’s performance I may seriously get the red licked off my candy. It looks like this tour may no longer be sweet but definitely super sticky.

For the love of Kabbalah, I hope Madonna can find the strength to put on a stellar performance.

Source, Source, Source

I Got Your Crazy!

Britney released her new video for Womanizer last week. I think it rocks! Check it out below. Britney's back, ya'll!

Britney's Womanizer

Womanizer, the first single from Brit Brit's upcoming album Circus, was released last Friday. I've listened to the song and it's OK. Seems a bit too much like a combination of Radar and Ooh, Ooh Baby from her last album, Blackout. Still, it's Britney Spears and I'm pretty sure Womanizer will grow on me and this song will eventually end up in my iTunes. I can't wait for the new album, due out December 2, aka Britney's birthday.

Take a listen here.

Revolutionary Road

I've known about Kate and Leo's reunion for this film for a couple of months but I just saw the trailer today. This film looks supremely depressing and unfortunately identifiable. Judging by the trailer it looks like Kate and Leo lose their dreams and spirit to the monotony of settling down, which is forced upon by society. As dismal as this movie seems, I still want to see it. I'll make sure I bring some tissue to the theater.

Paul Newman's Exodus

Sadly, this past Friday night America lost film legend and philanthropist Paul Newman. I know a lot of people, particularly in my age group, remember Newman from his movie The Color of Money. I have to say that I've never seen a film in which Newman appeared that I thought his performance was not perfect. But my favorite movie which is forever burned into my memory is Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. He absolutely sizzled as the brooding Brick Pollitt. I believe he brought a depth to the characters he portrayed which is not often seen in Hollywood today.

I think what I like the most about Newman is that he was such a regular guy. Several years ago, while my husband was employed as a hotel bellman, he got the chance to meet Newman. Apparently, Newman was very pleased when my husband directed him to Wild Wing Cafe for dinner that night. Nothing fancy, just a guy who was hungry and wanted some good wings. My husband said he was so nice! In my former career, I had a lot of experiences dealing with celebrities and it's always a pleasure when they're nice to the "little people."

Newman's film work lives on and I hope his charities will continue to thrive. We'll miss you, Paul!

Was It Worth It, Heather?

Poor Heather Locklear. She got busted over the weekend for suspision of driving under the influence. According to the articles I've read, alcohol was ruled out and she is believed to have been under the influence of prescription meds.

I really don't have anything to say about this but I could not resist making a title reference to her L'Oreal commercials. By the way, she is not looking like her L'Oreal self in the mug shot. I guess you can't be air brushed all the time. Oh well, I'm glad she's not hurt and didn't hurt anyone else. I hope she'll be better soon.

Source

Going Against the Brand

This is really old news but I'm still ticked off enough to blog about it. I purposefully try to make my blog lighthearted because I figure we can all use some good fun but this really set me off and I feel compelled to make a statement about it.

I settled in to watch the MTV VMA's back on September 7. I figured I was in for a good show based on the commercials I'd seen with Russell Brand and Britney Spears. Unfortunately, I was fuming about 10 minutes into the show. Brand got on stage to introduce the show and he immediately began making political comments. He asked America to vote for Obama on behalf of the world and then called President Bush a "retarded cowboy." He said it was nice of America to elect a retarded cowboy because in England, he wouldn't have been trusted with a pair of scissors.

I have four problems with his statements. First, I'm thoroughly sick of celebrities using awards ceremonies to make political statements. Why can't they do that at an actual political rally if they support the candidate? I don't tune in to awards shows to find out the political leanings of stars; I want to know who wins what award. Although I'm sure many celebrities would think or say otherwise, I don't believe they are any more politically savvy than I am or have more information than I do. I certainly don't support a political candidate just because of celebrity endorsement. So why do they go around to every awards show and trumpet their endorsement of some candidate or bash the current President?

I think political satire is perfectly acceptable and enjoyable in the right situations. Take SNL for example. Some of the most talented acting and writing took place during political skits. I enjoy it whether they're making fun of Republicans, Democrats or everything in between. It's funny! But SNL is a platform for that type of comedy.

My second problem is that Brand used the word retarded as an insult. Obviously if he's using it as a joke to insult the President, he believes that there is something insult worthy of people with diminished mental capacity. I have a real problem with this. I'm not the type to get all "politically correct" but I do retain a measure of compassion and respect for people with mental disabilities and the people who care for them. Brand sounds like the playground bully that everyone hates but doesn't know how to stand up to. I sat on my couch and watched in disgust as people in the audience cheered at his comments. Did they listen or did they just hear Bush's name and instinctively laugh because that's what the media and celebrities instruct them to do in such situations?

Does anyone realize that the only time it is politically correct to call someone retarded is when you're referring to the President? That would not pass in everyday normal life. A five year old could tell you that calling someone retarded is mean because if you're using it any any capacity other than medical terms, it's an insult. So, why is it suddenly okay for Brand to say it?

This brings me to my third point. Does anyone have respect for the President of the United States anymore? I'm not talking about George W. Bush, I am talking about the person elected to and holding the Office of the President of the United States. There are former Presidents that I don't particularly care for but if I were on TV, I would not make derogatory comments about their character. I think if you don't respect the President as a person, you can at least respect the Office. There are certain things you just don't say to or about the President. Calling him a retarded cowboy is one of them. Brand should have been booed off the stage but instead the audience laughed and clapped. It's an insult to our country. Even if you don't like Bush, you should still stick up for the Office of the President and nobody did.

I believe that Americans have the right to criticize the President, the Administration and the Government in general. That is our right and privilege and I'm proud to live in a country that allows freedom of expression without fear of repercussions. However, I do believe that if you're going to criticize, you should be able back up your arguments and specifically comment on policy decisions and action as opposed to the actual person. Calling the President a retarded cowboy is ridiculous! There is absolutely no decency in that comment. If you don't like that Bush is President, give examples of policy decisions you don't agree with. Oh, but I guess that wouldn't render a giggle from the Hollywood crowd.

Lastly, what gives Brand the right to come to this country and criticize our President and give an endorsement to a presidential candidate? His opinion doesn't matter. He is not from this country and is not permanently residing in this country. I know this sounds xenophobic of me, but I just don't feel that a foreigner has the right to tell Americans who we should vote for or make jokes about our President. Where's the sense of indignation? Is there no pride in our country anymore? I believe that if an American Citizen/Celebrity went to another country and bashed their leader, there would be outrage and a public apology would be demanded.

I changed the channel after Brand's intro and watching Brit Brit get her first award. I know MTV doesn't care, but I just felt like I could not in good conscience continue watching. His comments were repugnant from all stand points. He made fun of our President and insulted those with mental disabilities. I'm incensed by the whole introduction performance. I know my post won't make a difference in the grand scheme of things but I feel like writing my opinion about this was the right thing to do. Thanks for your indulgence.

If you would like to read more about Brand's performance at the MTV VMA's, click on PopWatch Blog, Times Online, Michelle Malkin, and The Huffington Post.

3 is a Magic Number

In honor of my 30th birthday, I'm posting the very 1st SchoolHouse Rock, which is all about the number 3. Three actually is a very important number for me. I was born in the 9th month on the 27th day at 9:15pm. All divisible by 3. If you're a generation Xer like me, this video will be quite nostalgic. Enjoy! I'm going to eat some more birthday cake. :)

James Franco=Justin Bobby

Back in August I saw Pineapple Express and it was actually quite well written and very funny. But that's not the point of this post. This is about a couple of videos you must watch if you have ever seen 5 minutes of The Hills and/or if you are a James Franco fan.

First go to MTV Rough Cut and watch this video.

Then go to FunnyorDie.com and watch this video.

Warning! Adult language is used in the clip on the funnyordie website.

Unleashing the Force

I picked up Star Wars: The Force Unleashed on its release date of 9/16 last week. I swung by my local Blockbuster and got the last copy that was not on reserve. The Blockbuster associate told me it was my lucky day but I prefer to think that the force was with me. ;) So I've been playing it for the last week and I'm almost finished. I'm making my way through the Death Star to the final scenario. Here's the scoop on this game.

You play as Darth Vader's secret apprentice which automatically aligns you to the dark side and your powers are tailored as such. You go through about 3 different worlds hunting and destroying Jedi masters. After you're successful in this task Vader forces you to dissociate yourself from him and the Empire so that you can gather rebels to your cause in an attempt to destroy the Emperor.

You have to go back through the same planets you just came from only this time, they're run by the Empire and you must destroy the outposts. All the while, you begin to feel "conflict" and start to have feelings for your new rebel friends. Apparently at the end of this game you must choose whether or not to save or destroy them and that choice results in unlocking either a Sith or Jedi costume. Maybe there's more but I have to say that a new outfit is kinda lame especially when you can put in a cheat code to get both costumes. (I've already done that in case you're wondering.)

The force powers and light saber techniques are pretty cool and your powers increase as you move through the game. You can blast your opponents with force lightening or impale them mid-air with your light saber. The graphics are great and objects in the environment react to your movements, mimicking real life.

What bothers me about this game is the jumping. I was never very good at jumping in any video games except for maybe Super Mario Brothers and even then it was touch and go. In The Force Unleashed you are required to make great leaps at times or else you'll fall into an abyss or some molten lava. I had to repeat these sections more times than I can count because I couldn't quite make the jump and I would die. I really hate wasting time on menial tasks like this in a game. If I'm going to die I'd rather die against a boss opponent. They need to make it worth my while. Obviously, when I kept dying during these jumps, I got frustrated and stopped playing the game for a while. I also had to get my husband to help me in a few sections. He's somehow able to magically connect with the game to make the jumps. So annoying!

This game is a decent slasher game, plenty of power, cool graphics and enemies to destroy. But I feel like it lacks some substance. I played Knights of the Old Republic II and although the graphics were not as good, it was a game centered around the history of the Republic, Jedi, Sith and Empire and required you to make choices throughout the game that would influence other characters, circumstances, your alignment to the dark or light side of the force and ultimately the game's ending. It was kind of like Choose Your Own Adventure for Star Wars geeks.

Still, The Force Unleashed is a solid game and I'm sure there will be aspects to enjoy even after I've beaten it.

Jessie Spano Caffeine Pill Freakout!

OK, a friend of mine emailed me this clip over a month ago and I meant to post it immediately since it is my favorite clip of all time from Saved by the Bell. Somehow it just slipped my mind. I was actually reminded of it today as I went through my morning routine of watching Saved by the Bell while I ate breakfast. This morning's episode was the one where they struck oil at Bayside. The school was going to get lots of funding from the oil and everyone was super psyched about it, except Jessie. But then tragedy struck in the form of an oil spill in the school pond. The school pets were covered in oil and died. I know; it really was sad. So the kids protested and demanded alternative energy sources. Sounds like today's mantra. Could Saved by the Bell have held the key to the energy crisis back in the 90’s? The world may never know.

Josh's TV Medley

I missed the Emmys last night but I imagine this was the best part. Any man that can sing the TV show theme songs this well wins my heart. :)

Heidi's Overdosin'

Breaking news! Heidi has a new song out called Overdosin'. Click here to listen. I know Heidi is the girl people love to hate but I gotta say, she's smarter than me. She took her status as a second rate character on a teeny bopper "reality" show and turned it into a fashion line and music contract. She's definately working it. Having said that, her lyrics totally lack substance and there's nothing that makes her voice stand out but somebody's gobbling it up or else songs wouldn't keep popping up. So, peeps what are your opinions on Heidi? Don't keep them to yourselves.

The Hills Are Alive

It's that time of year again. Time for fake relationships, crying mascara tears, Hollywood fashion, awesome music and best of all DRAMA. That's right peeps, The Hills is back. I've been waiting all summer for this show. VH1 let me down with I Love Money and Brooke Knows Best is one of those shows I can catch on the reruns. But I tune in on time to The Hills and I can always count on it to bring back the wonderfulness that is scripted reality TV.

So on tonight's premiere, Lauren threw Audrina a B-day party for which Lo basically remained MIA. Lauren was stressed playing hostess by herself and lamented her concerns to her date, Doug. Lauren convinced Lo to chat with Audrina and the talk was quite painful. Basically, Audrina is fine with the fact that she and Lo will never really be friends and she stated it quite bluntly to Lo. I feel like Lauren definitely tries to make Audrina feel welcome and Lo may be a bit jealous of Lauren and Audrina's friendship.

The drama continued with Spencer and Heidi as Heidi's sister arrived to stay for a few days. Spencer is not fond of anyone invading his space or taking away from his time with Heidi. This just means that he was his usual charming self in the way that Lucifer might be charming. As Heidi's sister was leaving, she mentioned moving to Cali permanently. Heidi thought it was great, Spencer smirked and pouted.

So here are my favorite quotes from this episode:

Audrina: "Lo is super b**chy."

Spencer: "My middle name is nice."

Lauren: "The type of drink you order says a lot about you." This was right after she ordered a Fuzzy Dragon. I have no idea what a Fuzzy Dragon is, I figure it's some variation of a Fuzzy Navel. Anyway, her quote sounds like some sort of Chinese Proverb with a Valley Girl twist.

Lo: "Well, we'll just enjoy the company that comes." Lo said this to Audrina during her B-day party regarding the friends Audrina chose to invite.

Seven days until the next episode and I'm already jonesin' for my next dose of DRAMA. To check out more info on The Hills and watch full episodes, click here.

The Hills (Spring Sing 2008)

As we begin the 4th and possibly final season of The Hills, I felt it necessary to post this hilarious parody. Please enjoy.

I Want To Believe This Movie Was Worth It

Warning: Spoiler Alert!

Peeps, this is a toughy. Let me spare you the one hour and 44 minutes X-Files episode made for the big screen. This movie was not that bad but not that good either. Maybe my Dark Knight experience was so fantastic that this movie couldn't compare. Maybe I thought there would be a bit more mystery, government conspiracy and general intrigue. Instead, I watched Mulder and Scully uncover a modern day Frankenstein procedure by Russian scientists/physicians coerced by their desire to be on the cutting edge of head transplants and the prompting of another Russian whose lover is dying of cancer and needs a new healthy body. The FBI was taking its direction from a psychic former priest who was banished from the church due to pedophilia. Mulder believes the guy is actually psychic and can lead them to the missing FBI agent in time to save her life. Scully has her doubts and lashes out at the priest for his multitude of sins.

Granted, the plot was interesting, but I'm not convinced it was movie worthy. On top of that, Scully and Mulder are in a relationship and apparently they had a son!? My confusion got the better of me during that part so I can't elaborate much further. It's been so long since the X-Files was on TV that I've really forgotten a lot of things about the series. My husband was really upset that the movie did not contain aliens but I reminded him that aliens were not always a factor in the X-Files world.

Ah well, I think this movie could've probably gone straight to video but I don't hate it. At least with the X-Files there's always a twist and it doesn't follow the generic plots of most movies and/or TV shows. That's what helped build its fan base in the beginning. That, and there's just a lot of nerds out there! Including me. :)

The Watchmen Trailer

Who Watches the Watchmen?

Apparently all of America saw the trailer for the spring 2009 release of The Watchmen prior to The Dark Knight this weekend, except for me. I got to the theater after it was already shown but fortunately, I'd already seen it online. Some of you may not know what The Watchmen is so allow me to enlighten you.

The Watchmen is an award winning graphic novel from the late 1980's depicting dilapidated superheroes living in the shadows of the Cold War. In this alternate history, superheroes are commonplace but the public is weary of their perceived vigilante tactics. The Doomsday Clock is set at 5 minutes to midnight and this group is about to come out of retirement to solve the murder mystery of one of their own. These are not the goody-two shoes heroes who always take the high ground. They're more like a posse of misfits with various neuroses, plagued by ethical and moral dilemmas. Are you impressed yet? I read this novel for my Media Criticism class in college and wrote a paper about its underlying theme depicting the American Monomyth. Who says you never use what you learned in school? ;)

Now director Zach Snyder is turning The Watchmen into a full blown movie and from the trailer, it's breathtaking. I'm not familiar with any of the actors but I think that's a positive. The special effects look amazing and the characters appear spot-on from their depictions in the comic. If the movie keeps to the plot of the novel and allows the themes of authority, social opposition, and moral relativism to develop, it should be a winner. I hope this will be a thinking person's movie; just like the novel encouraged the reader to question certain ideals and notions, so should the movie encourage the viewer to leave with a greater perspective of human nature and the forces both heroic and villainous in us all.

"Why So Serious?"

We just got back from seeing The Dark Knight and this movie was phenomenal! So good, I want to see it again. When I can’t stop thinking about a movie, that’s when I know it’s awesome. The Dark Knight takes the other Batman movies (sans Batman Begins) and makes them completely laughable. Besides Sex and the City, which I can’t place in the same category, this was the best movie I’ve seen all year! Very dark and disturbing; there was lots of psychological terror but not much gore, which is exactly what scares me most. I don’t need to see a bunch of gruesome acts to get the point that a person died hideously or was tortured, etc. The apprehension is what freaks me out and this movie had plenty of it. I was curling up in my seat at a few points for fear of what the Joker might do.

Tension and angst, savage humor and depravity, the inner struggle of nobleness versus hedonism; this is definitely a movie that gets your pulse going. There were some plot twists to keep viewers guessing and deep themes which allow it to maintain significance and relevance. There was a point where they were referring to the joker and his cronies as terrorists and Gotham was mad at Batman for letting civilians and policeman die all while he was trying to protect them from evil. I couldn't help but think this was a comment on President Bush and the War on Terror, which I found purely fascinating. I’ll let you see the movie and then draw your own conclusions as to the writers' perspective.

Heath Ledger’s performance was truly immaculate. He really melted into the role of the Joker. You forget that you’re watching lovable Heath and truly believe that this sadistic psycho is out to get you. Jack Nicholson’s Joker cannot touch Ledger’s. Tim Burton’s Batman came out when I was 11 and Nicholson’s Joker didn’t scare me at all. Ledger’s on the other hand had me cringing. While Nicholson’s Joker was evil and twisted in a silly way, Ledger’s was a completely diabolical maniac, relishing in creating chaos and fear. Of course the writers and director get total props for their contributing parts in the movie; Ledger wouldn’t have been able to play such an awesome role without the excellent writing and direction. But he really dug deep to bring out the sheer demented nature of the Joker.

The Joker’s background in The Dark Knight is much more of a mystery than in Batman (1989). Instead of falling into a vat of chemicals, he has scars from knife wounds in his cheeks, for which he offers multiple explanations. I think this brings an element of sympathy to his character and offers a much more abysmal side to his past than previously portrayed.

I like the Nolan Batman movies much better than Burton’s or Schumacher’s because they’re simply more realistic. Real cities, not just sets and paintings and the themes are dark but not gothic. Burton’s movies in comparison seem very cartoonish. I think if you’re taking comic book characters onto the big screen, they should be made real, because that’s what they are in the comic book; they are supposed to be real people, they’re just drawn. The movie should not look like a comic book or a cartoon but should still retain the elements of the characters. Nolan’s movies do that. No redonkulous antics or attention detracting CGI. Everything in his movies makes sense from how and where Bruce Wayne gets his “toys” and training to the villains’ motivations.

I also don’t care much for the other Batmans. Christian Bale is definitely the best in my book. George Clooney plays himself in every movie so I feel like he never got into the Batman role at all. Michael Keaton is a decent actor but his pursed lips always really bothered me. Val Kilmer wasn’t bad, but I really just thought his main draw was his attractiveness. Bale definitely makes Batman/Bruce Wayne his own. The casting of Morgan Freeman and Michael Caine was also excellent and I heart them (esp. Freeman) in every movie I’ve ever seen them in. Aaron Eckhart makes a much better Harvey Dent/Two Face than Tommy Lee Jones could every dream of and his face is truly horrific after the accident. (Kudos special effects peeps!)

The soundtrack to Batman Begins and The Dark Knight are both fantastic. Gripping, brooding, sweeping and with a perpetual motion sound that seems to tick toward doom with brief moments of redemption. The scores by Hans Zimmer and James Newton Howard highlight the action sequences brilliantly. Well worth the purchase on iTunes!

I have to give a cliché of two very enthusiastic thumbs up for this movie I enjoyed every aspect of it from beginning to end. It will certainly be on my list of DVD purchases and a movie I can watch again and again.

Rest in Peace, Heath. Your magic lives on!

Mandybomb Goes to Hell...Boy That Is

This past weekend, my husband and I went to see Hellboy II The Golden Army at the new theater in our neighborhood, Cinebarre. Some of you peeps may remember that I blogged about the opening of Cinebarre a few months ago. It was definitely a unique experience. The place had a retro theme going and posters everywhere of old movies and cult classic films. The actual movie theaters were set up pretty much the same as usual but they had bar style tables in front of the seats. Menus were placed at each "place setting" and appropriate condiments and rolls of paper towels were at intermittent sections all within reach.

We both had the "Fight Club" which is just a fancy/movie reference way of saying a grilled chix sandwich with bacon, cheese and all the fixins. It was pretty good, basically neighborhood bar ala Applebee's style food. My husband did say the wings were less than delicious, so if you visit, be advised. Other than that, rather tasty. It combined our lunch and a movie so I feel like we actually gained an hour by not having to go to two places. My only complaint is that Cinebarre is not prepared for "normal" movie-goers. They do offer popcorn and sodas but there is no candy. That's practically a sin in my book. Nothing brings a smile to my face like Sourpatch Kids or Reece's Pieces to go along with my popcorn at the movies. Ah well, I guess you can't have it all!

In any case, we did actually see a movie so let me give you my thoughts. Hellboy II expanded on the first movie (duh) but I thought it was even more imaginative. Apparently, elves (which by the way are not the pretty LOTR elves I'm used to) make an ancient pact with humans to keep to the forests while the humans manage the cities. The elf king thought this was a good deal but his son was not pleased. The prince went into exile for, oh I don't know, let's say two millenia. Anyway, he comes back and is ticked! Sooo, he decides to collect all the pieces of this magic crown that will allow him to command the golden army, wage war on the humans and live take back their land. Hellboy is there to save the day of course but he is a bit tormented by his need to be acceptance and the rejection offered by the humans. His enemy gives him some insight with his dilemma and offers him kinship as they are both unique in the world. Drama alert! Also, there's romantic troubles between Hellboy and his girl, Liz.

I realize that the Hellboy movies are based on the comics but this genre is what I'd call fringe comics. Average Jane and Joe peeps like me are not familiar with anything beyond Batman and Spiderman. Thus, I'm certainly not equipped to judge the movie on its accuracy to the comics. What I did enjoy was the stunning visionary scope and imagination of director Guillermo Del Toro. I saw Pan's Labyrinth when it came out and was amazed. This was just as much a feast for the eyes. A picture is worth a million words if Del Toro is directing the film. Each character in this movie was fantastical, I don't know how else to describe it. The cinematography was amazing as well, definitely worth seeing on the big screen. I highly recommend!

Votes Are In, Snapshots Are Out

Recently, I added a feature called Snapshots onto my site. I wasn't sure if I liked the application so I put in a poll and called for a vote. The votes are in and thanks to those of you who took the time to register your opinion! 66% said the Snapshots cluttered the site and 33% said they liked the feature. True to my word, I'm removing the feature for clear viewing of Mandybomb. Thanks for your participation!

Snapshots: Go or No?

This past weekend I added a new feature to my blog. It's called Snapshots and I actually came across is by mistake. I was fiddling with my profile on Technorati and clicked on the picture of my blog (which is the old picture). I don't understand why Technorati can't update the picture of my blog but I guess I'm stuck unless one of my technologically savvy readers gives me some hints. In any case, I clicked on the Snapshots link and went through the sign up thing and poof! I had all these teeny TVs (that's what I'm calling them anyway) at every link on my blog. When you roll over the link a snap shot of the website appears giving the reader a glimpse of what is to come should you click.


I really don't know if I like this feature or not. I think it's neat in some places but I have the feeling that it's just a trend that will eventually become annoying and out of style and/or ridiculous. Kind of like leg warmers with tennis shoes and jeans in the 80's. I also could be completely wrong and maybe people will find it quite handy.


That's why I'm leaving it up to you, peeps. Yes, you will be able to decide the fate of the Snapshots feature on my blog. Please note the poll in the top left of the blog. I encourage you to vote. The poll will be posted for one week and depending on the results, the Snapshots will either remain or be banished. Voting is easy and I don't even require registration. So check out the site, see how you like the feature and then vote away. This is your chance to influence my blog! Thank you for your support.

My name is Mandybomb and I approve this post.

Love for SW and LOTR

Why am I so obsessed with Star Wars? I have the movies in my DVD collection, I play Star Wars video games and I have even been known to occasionally read Star Wars fan fiction. Currently, Spike TV is running the Star Wars films almost every weekend. (Incidentally, Attack of the Clones was on tonight). Even though I own the movies, I am compelled to watch them on TV, no matter what I’m doing. George Lucas, what is this spell you hold over me? No matter how kooky the plots of your prequels or how many ridiculous characters you plop into your stories for absolutely no reason at all, I still love you.

Something about Star Wars just speaks to me. I don’t know why. I guess I really am just a nerd deep down. Although I’m sure most people would already agree that I’m a nerd on the outside as well. It’s taken me a long time to come to grips with my l-o-v-e for Star Wars but I can’t hide it any longer. I am probably as big a fan of Star Wars as there is, sans dressing up in crazy costumes and going to conventions. I prefer my Star Wars moments to be much more private but I do get a giggle at people making fun of certain aspects of Star Wars. Here’s what I mean, check out Chefelf for his hilarious take on the Star Wars movies. (Warning! Do not click this link unless you have a sense of humor)

On a similar note, I’m also completely obsessed with The Lord of the Rings. My mom read the Hobbit and the LOTR trilogy to me when I was a kid and I own all those movies as well. But if TBS or TNT decides to run a marathon of the trilogy over a weekend, I can hang up all other plans because my behind is parked in front of the TV. One memorable weekend, Spike and TNT were showing Star Wars and LOTR simultaneously and I did the whole picture in picture thing, courtesy of my husband, so that I would not miss a single moment of lightsaber action or Gollum screeching “my precious!” It was awesome!

I suppose one day I may take the time to fully understand my obsession with these two sagas but for now, I just enjoy. Here's to many more years of Lucas and Tolkien love. May the force be with you my precious!

Facing Facebook

Two days ago I joined Facebook. I just could not resist any longer. I don’t know how long exactly Facebook has been around but I do know that for me, as someone who practically lives on the Internet, I should’ve been one of the charter members. This wasn’t the case however and I just did not feel it was necessary. Lately though, I’ve had a couple of friends who seem to talk about it all the time and my curiosity piqued. Now I’ve found it’s the most addicting thing ever! I’m actually having trouble writing this post because I would rather be on Facebook fiddling with my profile or checking to see if any new people have accepted my friend invitation or if I’ve been invited to be a friend. I’m pretty sure I have an addictive personality so this is not exactly surprising. I do have lots of questions about Facebook; how it works, if people will actually be my friend, is it cheesy to invite my other friends to be on Facebook, and what kinds of things should I add to my page? So many questions!

About an hour after I signed up, one of my friends started a chat with me. I didn’t even know she was on Facebook until that night and suddenly we were chatting about work, her upcoming b-day and her latest blog entry which also happens to be about Facebook. (Please see SlantedVProductions.) I’ve happened to notice from her friends on Facebook a few people from our old school. I’m curious about them and want to ask them to be my friend but I’m nervous at the same time. What if I get rejected? It may hurt my feelings more than not having anyone to play with at recess in elementary school. Do I dare run the risk? One of my real life friends (and now Facebook friend) assures me that “all is forgiven” on Facebook. So no matter what happened in kindergarten, middle school, high school or any other socially awkward period in my life, Facebook peeps are all accepting. Interesting.

Now, I’m just trying to learn Facebook etiquette. If you search for an old friend and find them, do you first send a message of explanation? And what do you say? Maybe something like “Hey, what’s up? Long time no see, right? I know I haven’t talked to you in years but will you be my friend? And I don’t mean friends in the let’s get together sense, just in the virtual world cause I may not actually want to see you and be friends with you again in real life, just on the Internet, where I can sign off whenever I choose with no strings attached." Hmm…that may be inappropriate and too sarcastic of me. In any case, I don’t think I’ve got the courage to extend such invitations yet. Maybe I’ll let them come to me; that’ll really get my ego going. :)

I do find it interesting to learn new things about my friends. Especially when I see things that we have in common that have just never come up in conversation. For instance, I’ve learned that a few of my Facebook friends have the same taste in movies, music, books and TV shows as I but I may not have known that if it weren’t for this social network. It is a handy dandy tool for peaking into people’s personalities and interests. Speaking of which, I think this post is long enough. I have some more Facebook lurking to do. Peace out, peeps!

LC Advertising for LG

LG recently debuted its new commercial featuring Hills star Lauren Conrad. She's teamed up with former crush, current ad campaign partner Brody Jenner for the new LG phone Shine. The phone does look slick and I am in the market for a new phone. But I would never allow faux reality show stars to influence my purchase, would I?

Check out the new commercial here. For more features on the phone, check this out.

TV Wasteland to Wonderland

June has been kind of a bummer as far as TV shows are concerned. I've been keeping up with Hell's Kitchen, which is always entertaining but everything else is just reruns. Fortunately, VH1 will resolve that problem in July. All sorts of reality goodies will be coming out soon! First up, New York Goes to Hollywood, then I Love Money and on to Brooke Knows Best. No link for Brooke Knows Best yet but trust me, it's real. You can watch Brooke's Video Diaries if you like.

I'm most excited about New York Goes to Hollywood. Tiffany Pollard, aka New York stars in another VH1 reality installment. Apparently New York wants to become a legitimate actress and the cameras are following along in pursuit of her dream. My true feelings about New York really can't be written. She's simultaneously horrible and delightful to watch. Her behavior would not be acceptable under normal circumstances and I'm sure she plays to the camera but she really does know how to make a show entertaining. I completely tuned out of Flavor of Love 3, simply because she wasn't on the show. If Shakespeare and Jerry Springer got together, I'm not sure they could write/script/produce/televise drama that good or trashy! I just loved her freakout moments where she would totally cuss someone out and then it would cut to her puffing on a cigarette and pretending to act dainty.

I Love Money will feature contestants from past seasons of Flavor of Love, I Love New York and Rock of Love, in which the common goal will be winning $250,000. It looks hilarious, sort of like a Beverly Hills version of Survivor but with less class and zero intelligence!

I don't have much to say about Brooke Knows Best 'cause I'm not really sure what Brooke knows. I think this is just a sick way for VH1 and all of America to eavesdrop on her family's dysfunction junction. I'll still tune in for at least an episode or two. We'll see what happens.

That's the July preview, peeps! I hope these new shows don't disappoint. Stay tuned!