Get out of the way, here come the Brinks Truck making a healthy deposit into the Jonus Brothers already robust bank account. It's the opening weekend for the Jonus Brothers 3-D Concert Experience.
First and foremost, the actual 3-D in this picture is terrific. Really amazing. And the previews that you see before the show are also in 3-D for upcoming Disney and Pixar movies. They too they too are extraordinary to see. The technology really is something. Plus the days of the cardboard glass are over, instead you get to wear glasses that Buddy Holly would love. So things really have changed in that area.
This picture takes you on a trip with the Jonus Brothers backstage and on stage for a real concert experience. There are special appearances too by Taylor Swift and others that break up the three guys on stage thing. And in fairness, you do feel like you are a part of the audience for much of the concert portion of the picture. There are things flying at you, all around you and that's kind of cool. Kids today loved it, and that's always a good thing. But there is a fly in this ointment, not for the kids - but for you.
The title of this movie speaks for itself. It is a "concert experience" no doubt. But it's not a concert. This picture is a mere 76 minutes long from start to finish, and someone made the great decision to charge $15 a person to see it. That's right, this is $15! They would defend it by saying a real concert would be way more and they would be right. But for two kids to see this movie is $30! In movie terms, it's out of line. My heart goes out to you Mom and Dad if you have to take them and it's 60-75 bucks for an hour to get in. Better save those Buddy Holly glasses too, you may need them to see if there's any money left to fly out of your wallet.
I guess the studio hasn't heard of this recession thing going on, and that's too bad. Your kids will have a good time no doubt; I just hope you can afford to take them. This is an opportunity missed for a major studio to do something really cool for it's fan base, but in the end....there's just too much money to be made, and too many parents that will find some way to pony up the dough to go. And I think the movie makers know that. It's a shame considering that a 2-3 hour movie with real actors and all the bells and whistles is still about 7 bucks for a matinee.
The Jonus Brothers 3-D Concert Experience. 3-D is great, price is not.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Friday, February 27, 2009
Leg Lickin' Good!
It's no real secret that I am a big food fan. I like to eat and cook good food. It's a passion of mine and is very therapeutic for me. I spend a lot of time in the kitchen, I even had the cable company run a wire for a TV on the refrigerator. That way I can get my fill of Dr. Phil, Seinfeld, news, or sports while I cook.
I think that people that are passionate in life are passionate about food. I'm proud of the fact that I am a self taught cook and a good eater. I'll try to cook and eat most anything once, and there is very little I don't like.
I am also an act of service guy. I would like to think words like care and love are verbs and require action to really be put into motion. For me, cooking and serving is one of the ways I show as much. But as much as I enjoy all of the above, I know someone whose got me beat.
My dog Kona! She is 9 years old, and about 50 pounds. On my vets advice, she eats one bowl of food a day in the morning, and gets all the water she wants. The passion she shows for that food that I simply pour into that bowl is something that I have never seen. I can cook a meal for an hour in the kitchen for family and friends, and it never plays to the same reviews that Kona gives on her meal that is simply decanted out of the bag.
When Kona's done savoring her half crunchy, half chewy food with water at her usual bowl with a nice window view, you can see the contentment on her face. She even licks her legs and chest for the next few minutes to savor every last drop of the succulent dish that may have splashed on her. Just one last taste of the delectable on-sale dog food that's been stored in the plastic container on wheels. Keep in mind, it's the same swill every day for her. Not like us, a different menu every night. She just loves to eat... and good for her!
I don't generally make it a practice to splash my dinner in my lap daily. Doesn't bother Kona. I also don't eat my dinner in about 60 seconds. There again, Kona's good with that. She loves dinner so much, she even eats it standing up. Not me! Have you ever licked the plate clean for a minute after the food is gone? She does! Dogs are so passionate about food that they just stick that muzzle right down in the bowl and go to town! Now I gotta admit, I've toyed with that idea a Thanksgiving or two when the turkey and stuffing was just begging to be eaten, but I never followed through. I got no game.
As great as some of the food I've eaten in my life has been, I can't say it's ever been leg lickin' good. Finger lickin' good? Yes....Leg lickin' good? ....No. But Kona can.
That's the way Kona rolls.
Check out all my blogs anytime
http://www.akronnewsnow.com/blogs/scottwynnswindow/
I think that people that are passionate in life are passionate about food. I'm proud of the fact that I am a self taught cook and a good eater. I'll try to cook and eat most anything once, and there is very little I don't like.
I am also an act of service guy. I would like to think words like care and love are verbs and require action to really be put into motion. For me, cooking and serving is one of the ways I show as much. But as much as I enjoy all of the above, I know someone whose got me beat.
My dog Kona! She is 9 years old, and about 50 pounds. On my vets advice, she eats one bowl of food a day in the morning, and gets all the water she wants. The passion she shows for that food that I simply pour into that bowl is something that I have never seen. I can cook a meal for an hour in the kitchen for family and friends, and it never plays to the same reviews that Kona gives on her meal that is simply decanted out of the bag.
When Kona's done savoring her half crunchy, half chewy food with water at her usual bowl with a nice window view, you can see the contentment on her face. She even licks her legs and chest for the next few minutes to savor every last drop of the succulent dish that may have splashed on her. Just one last taste of the delectable on-sale dog food that's been stored in the plastic container on wheels. Keep in mind, it's the same swill every day for her. Not like us, a different menu every night. She just loves to eat... and good for her!
I don't generally make it a practice to splash my dinner in my lap daily. Doesn't bother Kona. I also don't eat my dinner in about 60 seconds. There again, Kona's good with that. She loves dinner so much, she even eats it standing up. Not me! Have you ever licked the plate clean for a minute after the food is gone? She does! Dogs are so passionate about food that they just stick that muzzle right down in the bowl and go to town! Now I gotta admit, I've toyed with that idea a Thanksgiving or two when the turkey and stuffing was just begging to be eaten, but I never followed through. I got no game.
As great as some of the food I've eaten in my life has been, I can't say it's ever been leg lickin' good. Finger lickin' good? Yes....Leg lickin' good? ....No. But Kona can.
That's the way Kona rolls.
Check out all my blogs anytime
http://www.akronnewsnow.com/blogs/scottwynnswindow/
Monday, February 23, 2009
Wrapping up Oscar
The 81st Academy Awards are now over, and now it's all Monday Morning quarterbacking on the show and the winners
The show itself was fine enough. Hugh Jackman showed amazing guts with the opening song and dance routine that started the show off fast and furious. The fashions were what the were and there were the good moments and the awkward moments too on camera. Tina Fey and Steve Martin stole the funny moments award, and the award to the most awkward moment, too many to mention, and the competition was too fierce. All pretty standard stuff.
I know we were all sitting on the edge of our seats for the Sound Editing, and Costume Design Oscars to be doled out. But after all the junk, we got to the meat. The reason you watch. The BIG awards.
Slumdog Millionaire was the big winner of the night. Eight Oscars in ten tries this year including Best Picture. A movie that is good to be sure, but I have contended all along it is overrated. Nothing at all wrong with it, just not 8 in 10 Oscar good. I still contend that Changeling is the best movie of the year, and sadly wasn't even seriously invited to the party.
No surprise with Heath Ledger as Best Supporting Actor for Batman, Sean Penn for Best Actor in Milk. Kate Winslet finally breaks through as Best Actress for The Reader, and her award- a long time coming.
The big surprise came with Penelope Cruz for Best Supporting Actress for the Quirky Woody Allen flick, Victoria, Christina Barcelona. Clearly moved, I think it was the best moment of the night. Real emotion with no agenda. Cruz seemed somewhat stunned as she held Oscar, and gave as nice a speech as can be expected under stunning circumstances, in both English and Spanish. A real lesson for future winners to follow. Well Done.
Now that the 2008 movies have been honored and put to bed, time to move on to 2009. Who will be this years Slumdog Millionaire?
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The show itself was fine enough. Hugh Jackman showed amazing guts with the opening song and dance routine that started the show off fast and furious. The fashions were what the were and there were the good moments and the awkward moments too on camera. Tina Fey and Steve Martin stole the funny moments award, and the award to the most awkward moment, too many to mention, and the competition was too fierce. All pretty standard stuff.
I know we were all sitting on the edge of our seats for the Sound Editing, and Costume Design Oscars to be doled out. But after all the junk, we got to the meat. The reason you watch. The BIG awards.
Slumdog Millionaire was the big winner of the night. Eight Oscars in ten tries this year including Best Picture. A movie that is good to be sure, but I have contended all along it is overrated. Nothing at all wrong with it, just not 8 in 10 Oscar good. I still contend that Changeling is the best movie of the year, and sadly wasn't even seriously invited to the party.
No surprise with Heath Ledger as Best Supporting Actor for Batman, Sean Penn for Best Actor in Milk. Kate Winslet finally breaks through as Best Actress for The Reader, and her award- a long time coming.
The big surprise came with Penelope Cruz for Best Supporting Actress for the Quirky Woody Allen flick, Victoria, Christina Barcelona. Clearly moved, I think it was the best moment of the night. Real emotion with no agenda. Cruz seemed somewhat stunned as she held Oscar, and gave as nice a speech as can be expected under stunning circumstances, in both English and Spanish. A real lesson for future winners to follow. Well Done.
Now that the 2008 movies have been honored and put to bed, time to move on to 2009. Who will be this years Slumdog Millionaire?
Follow all my movie reviews and news
http://www.akronnewsnow.com/entertainment_movies_expand.asp
72 In 52
This weekend I took one of my semi-annual trips to Central Florida to play some golf during the cold weather up here. I lived there for ten great years, and had real success professionally and personally. So fortunate to make and keep such great friends. Eight years after my departure from the Sunshine State, I go back and spend time with them and chase the little white ball around a well manicured course.
I truly felt blessed this weekend, to be able to play 72 holes of golf in 52 hours with the three best friends I have ever had. I've known my friend Ray in Florida for 13 years now. Don, who I go down there with every year, we've been friends for 29 years. And Tim, who is also a long time Floridian, I've been friends with for 40 years! It was truly a special time. We played 72 holes of golf in 52 hours on some of the best courses imaginable. We laughed, played well at times, badly at times, had a few drinks, and even smoked a cigar or two.
Truth be told, we ate so many chicken wings over the three days, I got chapped lips from them. That's when you know you've eaten a lot of wings. But as they heal, I look back at what was really important this weekend. What the four of us really learned. I think we all learned the same thing, whether we realized it or not at the moment it was all going on.
What we learned was how unbelievably rare it is for four guys to be in our position. To be lucky enough to have been friends all these many years, and now even decades. We all discussed it indirectly a time or two over huge mounds of food. How great the places were that we played, how much fun it all was, the great shots that we made, and how we busted each others chops over the ones that weren't so great. I felt a real appreciation this weekend not just for the tons of golf, but for the time together.
I noticed when we were playing well, we lavished in it. When one of us was struggling on the course the others were there for the pick-me-up. (And we all got our chance at that one.) This bunch has been through a lot together over the years. Good and the tough. Turns out that golf mirrors real life for this foursome. And this weekend it showed up big time. Friends that not only like to spend time together, and play the best game in the world, but friends that "got" the moment.
Yea, we played 72 of the finest golf holes that Central Florida has to offer, but that wasn't the best part. The best part was the solidification. We've been doing this a couple times a year for 8 years now, but this weekend I think in all our minds it set in concrete that this tradition will continue till we're all hitting drivers on par three's. And that's something worth celebrating!
Not many groups of friends can say it let alone live it. I'm lucky and I know it. And as time goes on it's good to "get it." Sometimes this getting older thing isn't so bad after all.
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I truly felt blessed this weekend, to be able to play 72 holes of golf in 52 hours with the three best friends I have ever had. I've known my friend Ray in Florida for 13 years now. Don, who I go down there with every year, we've been friends for 29 years. And Tim, who is also a long time Floridian, I've been friends with for 40 years! It was truly a special time. We played 72 holes of golf in 52 hours on some of the best courses imaginable. We laughed, played well at times, badly at times, had a few drinks, and even smoked a cigar or two.
Truth be told, we ate so many chicken wings over the three days, I got chapped lips from them. That's when you know you've eaten a lot of wings. But as they heal, I look back at what was really important this weekend. What the four of us really learned. I think we all learned the same thing, whether we realized it or not at the moment it was all going on.
What we learned was how unbelievably rare it is for four guys to be in our position. To be lucky enough to have been friends all these many years, and now even decades. We all discussed it indirectly a time or two over huge mounds of food. How great the places were that we played, how much fun it all was, the great shots that we made, and how we busted each others chops over the ones that weren't so great. I felt a real appreciation this weekend not just for the tons of golf, but for the time together.
I noticed when we were playing well, we lavished in it. When one of us was struggling on the course the others were there for the pick-me-up. (And we all got our chance at that one.) This bunch has been through a lot together over the years. Good and the tough. Turns out that golf mirrors real life for this foursome. And this weekend it showed up big time. Friends that not only like to spend time together, and play the best game in the world, but friends that "got" the moment.
Yea, we played 72 of the finest golf holes that Central Florida has to offer, but that wasn't the best part. The best part was the solidification. We've been doing this a couple times a year for 8 years now, but this weekend I think in all our minds it set in concrete that this tradition will continue till we're all hitting drivers on par three's. And that's something worth celebrating!
Not many groups of friends can say it let alone live it. I'm lucky and I know it. And as time goes on it's good to "get it." Sometimes this getting older thing isn't so bad after all.
Follow all my blogs too right now
http://www.akronnewsnow.com/blogs/scottwynnswindow/default.asp
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Academy Awards Preview
Sunday Hugh Jackman hosts the 81st Annual Academy Awards show on ABC Television. This years Oscars again are really featuring movies and performances that by and large are not mainstream movies, as has become the trend the past few years.
Many of the years really well reviewed movies were shunned, or given very little love by the Academy this year. Example being, Gran Torino, Changeling, and Batman and there were others. Movies like Milk, Doubt, and The Reader shown much love, although not a lot at the box office. But there were nods given to some big movies as well, Slumdog Millionaire, Benjamin Button and a few others.
What I'll do here is give you three winners from each of the five main categories. Film, Actor, Actress, Supporting Actor, and Supporting Actress. I'll give you my pick from the nominees, plus my pick from all movies that may not be included in the Oscars, then I'll give you the pick I think the Academy will pick. So here we go.
Actor
My pick from nominees
Frank Langella - Frost/Nixon - He was terrific, so much dialogue, totally into character.
My pick from all movies
Clint Eastwood - Gran Torino - At 78 he mesmerises audiences more that ever.
Predicted Oscar pick
Sean Penn - Milk - Hollywood loves him and his performances.
Actress
My pick from nominees
Angelina Jolie - Changeling - Not a big fan of hers, but she was terrific here. Really great!
My pick from all movies
Angelina Jolie - Changeling - Simply the best performance of the year for actresses.
Predicted Oscar Pick
Kate Winslet - The Reader - Heartbreak in years past melt away this year. She's due.
Supporting Actor
My pick from nominees
Heath Ledger - Batman - Forget the hype, he was great.
My pick from all movies
Heath Ledger - Batman - He made a good movie really good.
Predicted Oscar pick
Heath Ledger - Batman - He wins, going away. Landslide
Supporting Actress
My pick from nominees
Amy Adams - Doubt - She was a very big part of this movie being successful. Loved her.
My pick from all movies
Marissa Tomei - The Wrestler - Raw, nitty, gritty, and very daring. Very brave.
Predicted Oscar pick
Marissa Tomei - The Wrestler - I think this movie is going to win something, she is it.
Best Picture
My pick from the nominees
Frost/Nixon - Ronnie Howard directed. Tough story to tell. Performances great.
My pic from all movies
Changeling - Clint Eastwood directed. Should have been nominated. Fantastic.
Predicted Oscar pick
Slumdog Millionaire - Has won everything else. Fine movie, I feel a bit overrated.
What do you think? E- mail me your picks and thoughts @ scott@wqmx.com
You can see all my movie news and reviews now
http://www.akronnewsnow.com/entertainment_movies_expand.asp
Many of the years really well reviewed movies were shunned, or given very little love by the Academy this year. Example being, Gran Torino, Changeling, and Batman and there were others. Movies like Milk, Doubt, and The Reader shown much love, although not a lot at the box office. But there were nods given to some big movies as well, Slumdog Millionaire, Benjamin Button and a few others.
What I'll do here is give you three winners from each of the five main categories. Film, Actor, Actress, Supporting Actor, and Supporting Actress. I'll give you my pick from the nominees, plus my pick from all movies that may not be included in the Oscars, then I'll give you the pick I think the Academy will pick. So here we go.
Actor
My pick from nominees
Frank Langella - Frost/Nixon - He was terrific, so much dialogue, totally into character.
My pick from all movies
Clint Eastwood - Gran Torino - At 78 he mesmerises audiences more that ever.
Predicted Oscar pick
Sean Penn - Milk - Hollywood loves him and his performances.
Actress
My pick from nominees
Angelina Jolie - Changeling - Not a big fan of hers, but she was terrific here. Really great!
My pick from all movies
Angelina Jolie - Changeling - Simply the best performance of the year for actresses.
Predicted Oscar Pick
Kate Winslet - The Reader - Heartbreak in years past melt away this year. She's due.
Supporting Actor
My pick from nominees
Heath Ledger - Batman - Forget the hype, he was great.
My pick from all movies
Heath Ledger - Batman - He made a good movie really good.
Predicted Oscar pick
Heath Ledger - Batman - He wins, going away. Landslide
Supporting Actress
My pick from nominees
Amy Adams - Doubt - She was a very big part of this movie being successful. Loved her.
My pick from all movies
Marissa Tomei - The Wrestler - Raw, nitty, gritty, and very daring. Very brave.
Predicted Oscar pick
Marissa Tomei - The Wrestler - I think this movie is going to win something, she is it.
Best Picture
My pick from the nominees
Frost/Nixon - Ronnie Howard directed. Tough story to tell. Performances great.
My pic from all movies
Changeling - Clint Eastwood directed. Should have been nominated. Fantastic.
Predicted Oscar pick
Slumdog Millionaire - Has won everything else. Fine movie, I feel a bit overrated.
What do you think? E- mail me your picks and thoughts @ scott@wqmx.com
You can see all my movie news and reviews now
http://www.akronnewsnow.com/entertainment_movies_expand.asp
MOVIE REVIEW - The International
Wow! Give me a pillow will ya? It's the new thriller...The International, starring Clive Owen and Naomi Watts. Right up front, I want to tell you that I am surprised that those two could actually stay awake while making this snoozefest.
My goodness. The International is the story that takes you around the world to many exotic places, Italy, Turkey, Germany, and New York City in search of the worlds biggest bank tycoons. They have gone rogue and are financing all sorts of terrible ventures in hopes of becoming the worlds most powerful entity financially. Trouble is, instead of the thrill of visiting such places, this movie feels more that the waiting at the airport to catch the plane go there.
This is a two hour borefest that never picks up any speed, and never kicks into high gear. It's strictly revving in the driveway with a blown tranny. Dark, dreary, and tough to follow, and that's just for starters. Huge problem here too, the heroes to cheer for Owen and Watts? You know nothing about them. They only have a face and no character - none absolutley none. This is the flicks fatal flaw. You flat out just don't care about them, or if they find justice. I certainly didn't, but in fairness, the quicker they did, the quicker I could go home.
I can't imagine this move really being interesting to much of anyone for 9 dollars. You may find some enjoyment out of it in three years when it shows up for free on TNT every weekend, but certainly not worth your money or your time at the theaters.
Clive Owen has been hyped as the next big thing for a while now, and he flat lines here. Naomi Watts has done some meaningful work in the past, and I applaud her for her realness on screen. But let's not get carried away here, The International has nothing to offer.
The International. There are boring movies, there are snoozefests, and then there is ....The International. Watch C-Span reruns instead. You'll stay awake longer.
Check out all my current movie reviews now
http://www.akronnewsnow.com/entertainment_movies_expand.asp
My goodness. The International is the story that takes you around the world to many exotic places, Italy, Turkey, Germany, and New York City in search of the worlds biggest bank tycoons. They have gone rogue and are financing all sorts of terrible ventures in hopes of becoming the worlds most powerful entity financially. Trouble is, instead of the thrill of visiting such places, this movie feels more that the waiting at the airport to catch the plane go there.
This is a two hour borefest that never picks up any speed, and never kicks into high gear. It's strictly revving in the driveway with a blown tranny. Dark, dreary, and tough to follow, and that's just for starters. Huge problem here too, the heroes to cheer for Owen and Watts? You know nothing about them. They only have a face and no character - none absolutley none. This is the flicks fatal flaw. You flat out just don't care about them, or if they find justice. I certainly didn't, but in fairness, the quicker they did, the quicker I could go home.
I can't imagine this move really being interesting to much of anyone for 9 dollars. You may find some enjoyment out of it in three years when it shows up for free on TNT every weekend, but certainly not worth your money or your time at the theaters.
Clive Owen has been hyped as the next big thing for a while now, and he flat lines here. Naomi Watts has done some meaningful work in the past, and I applaud her for her realness on screen. But let's not get carried away here, The International has nothing to offer.
The International. There are boring movies, there are snoozefests, and then there is ....The International. Watch C-Span reruns instead. You'll stay awake longer.
Check out all my current movie reviews now
http://www.akronnewsnow.com/entertainment_movies_expand.asp
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
MOVIE REVIEW - Confessions Of A Shopaholic
Isla Fisher is certainly lovely as Becky in the new movie Confessions Of A Shopaholic new this week. But beware, there is trouble in shopping paradise.
Based on a tell all book a year or two ago, COAS is the story of a young, single woman who quite frankly is addicted to shopping and all the bling that goes with it. Becky spends money she doesn't have on things she doesn't need while ringing up the credit card bills. She is actually very relateable for many young women, who "suffer" the same addiction.
Becky is a young journalist, who lands a job at a magazine called Successful Saver, and becomes an instant hero when her articles on saving and shopping go international. Ironic since she's about 20 grand in the tank with debt. Will she be exposed? Will the debt collectors find her? Will this movie develop a second joke?
That's the trouble here, there is one joke in COAS, and that's it. It tries real hard to come up with another one, but fails. The joke is, she spends too much money, and goes to great lengths to justify her behavior. - Period. The movie trots out other big name stars too to try to give it a second joke, John Goodman, Joan Cusack, John Lithgow, Julie Hagerty, and others, but it is what it is. A two hour telling of the same joke.
Isla Fisher has a huge role here, and is asked to do the impossible. Be really funny for two hours, and truth is, not many can. Her character was designed to be a walking, talking punchline, and it doesn't work. We've seen this character 1,000 times before. The over the top, lovable, pretty, single girl against the the big city. She gives it a go, but they asked too much. I really have liked her in the past in other smaller roles, but I'm thinking she is a better side dish, than main course. She can be very funny, and is at times here.
To be fair, this movie really doesn't talk to me. I don't share her values or her lack of respect for money. But it is going to talk to many young people that are in, or are nearing the same boat. There are some laughs here from Fisher, and there will be some who will think this is the funniest movie of the young year so far. And that's the best thing about movies, there is something for everyone at one time or another.
Footnote too. I have not read the book, but this movie has the look that the book could be so much better than an adapted movie. Sometimes the transition just doesn't work. The story overall may be decent, but making it entertaining on the big screen? Tough to do sometimes.
Confessions Of A Shopaholic. Overall...in need of immediate treatment.
Based on a tell all book a year or two ago, COAS is the story of a young, single woman who quite frankly is addicted to shopping and all the bling that goes with it. Becky spends money she doesn't have on things she doesn't need while ringing up the credit card bills. She is actually very relateable for many young women, who "suffer" the same addiction.
Becky is a young journalist, who lands a job at a magazine called Successful Saver, and becomes an instant hero when her articles on saving and shopping go international. Ironic since she's about 20 grand in the tank with debt. Will she be exposed? Will the debt collectors find her? Will this movie develop a second joke?
That's the trouble here, there is one joke in COAS, and that's it. It tries real hard to come up with another one, but fails. The joke is, she spends too much money, and goes to great lengths to justify her behavior. - Period. The movie trots out other big name stars too to try to give it a second joke, John Goodman, Joan Cusack, John Lithgow, Julie Hagerty, and others, but it is what it is. A two hour telling of the same joke.
Isla Fisher has a huge role here, and is asked to do the impossible. Be really funny for two hours, and truth is, not many can. Her character was designed to be a walking, talking punchline, and it doesn't work. We've seen this character 1,000 times before. The over the top, lovable, pretty, single girl against the the big city. She gives it a go, but they asked too much. I really have liked her in the past in other smaller roles, but I'm thinking she is a better side dish, than main course. She can be very funny, and is at times here.
To be fair, this movie really doesn't talk to me. I don't share her values or her lack of respect for money. But it is going to talk to many young people that are in, or are nearing the same boat. There are some laughs here from Fisher, and there will be some who will think this is the funniest movie of the young year so far. And that's the best thing about movies, there is something for everyone at one time or another.
Footnote too. I have not read the book, but this movie has the look that the book could be so much better than an adapted movie. Sometimes the transition just doesn't work. The story overall may be decent, but making it entertaining on the big screen? Tough to do sometimes.
Confessions Of A Shopaholic. Overall...in need of immediate treatment.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
We're Not Exaggerating
When my partner Sue Wilson and I began doing the morning show together last summer, we started learning many things about one another quickly. You can't help it when you're paying attention, and in the same room together for 4 hours every morning.
One of many fun things we share, is the silly practice of exaggeration. We find each other saying things like, "It's a hundred below zero outside," or "it's ten thousand degrees today, humidity's five hundred percent." Sometimes it spills over to money, "George Clooney makes a jillion dollars a year," things like that. It's part of each of us individually and together on the show. It's kinda fun.
With that said, I noticed that when people exaggerate in speech, they use words like, million, ten thousand, a jillion, a bezillion or some other fun sounding word that fits that they just made up on the spot. I've never heard anyone use ..trillion. And now you can. Because finally, at last, it's in play!
This week Congress passed the stimulus, or recovery bill and now it's reality. We're spending a trillion dollars. That's a lot of money. How much is it? I literally have no idea. I don't think anyone really does.
How do I feel about it? I don't know, never spent a trillion dollars before. I don't think I've ever exaggerated a trillion dollars before in speech, and I've done my share of exaggerating. Using trillion just seemed too over the top! I've said million dollars a number of times. I think I've used a billion dollars a few times in extreme emergency exaggeration situations, but I don't think I've ever played the trillion card. This is all very sudden for me, and I've had no time to prepare. I've been caught with my numbers down.
All these years, million has been hogging all the good exaggeration slots, but I feel million has had it's day, and now we're skipping right over billion and going to trillion. You gotta feel bad for billion, it's been waiting all these years to get it's day in the exaggerational sun, and it's not gonna happen. Clearly, trillion is the new million, and is here to stay.
This trillion business is going to be with us a while too. It'll run right through our speechy exaggerationous society for a good many years, only one day to be replaced by .....zillion.....(I don't even know if that's a number, but it's sounds like one.) And zillion could be a scary one, because I think the next thing after a trillion is quadrillion.....and using history as our guide, we'll give quadrillion the billion treatment skip right over it and go to zillion. Which also is frightening, because zillion begins with a "z," where do you go from there?
Any way you slice it, a trillion is a lot of anything. It's like ten thousand, million, billion or something like that, although that may be an exaggeration. And as Sue always tells me in jest, "I've told you a million ..er.....oops a trillion times quit exaggerating."
Check out all of my blog postings too at http://www.akronnewsnow.com/blogs/scottwynnswindow/
One of many fun things we share, is the silly practice of exaggeration. We find each other saying things like, "It's a hundred below zero outside," or "it's ten thousand degrees today, humidity's five hundred percent." Sometimes it spills over to money, "George Clooney makes a jillion dollars a year," things like that. It's part of each of us individually and together on the show. It's kinda fun.
With that said, I noticed that when people exaggerate in speech, they use words like, million, ten thousand, a jillion, a bezillion or some other fun sounding word that fits that they just made up on the spot. I've never heard anyone use ..trillion. And now you can. Because finally, at last, it's in play!
This week Congress passed the stimulus, or recovery bill and now it's reality. We're spending a trillion dollars. That's a lot of money. How much is it? I literally have no idea. I don't think anyone really does.
How do I feel about it? I don't know, never spent a trillion dollars before. I don't think I've ever exaggerated a trillion dollars before in speech, and I've done my share of exaggerating. Using trillion just seemed too over the top! I've said million dollars a number of times. I think I've used a billion dollars a few times in extreme emergency exaggeration situations, but I don't think I've ever played the trillion card. This is all very sudden for me, and I've had no time to prepare. I've been caught with my numbers down.
All these years, million has been hogging all the good exaggeration slots, but I feel million has had it's day, and now we're skipping right over billion and going to trillion. You gotta feel bad for billion, it's been waiting all these years to get it's day in the exaggerational sun, and it's not gonna happen. Clearly, trillion is the new million, and is here to stay.
This trillion business is going to be with us a while too. It'll run right through our speechy exaggerationous society for a good many years, only one day to be replaced by .....zillion.....(I don't even know if that's a number, but it's sounds like one.) And zillion could be a scary one, because I think the next thing after a trillion is quadrillion.....and using history as our guide, we'll give quadrillion the billion treatment skip right over it and go to zillion. Which also is frightening, because zillion begins with a "z," where do you go from there?
Any way you slice it, a trillion is a lot of anything. It's like ten thousand, million, billion or something like that, although that may be an exaggeration. And as Sue always tells me in jest, "I've told you a million ..er.....oops a trillion times quit exaggerating."
Check out all of my blog postings too at http://www.akronnewsnow.com/blogs/scottwynnswindow/
Friday, February 13, 2009
MOVIE REVIEW - Friday The 13th
Here we go again! Jason is back at it, and the slashing is back in the new Friday The 13th new in theaters this week.
This is movie number twelve in this series and it attempts to introduce the whole concept to a new and younger generation of movie goers. It borrows some of the history from the first four movies, and then whips it up with a new, contemporary look. This may shock you, but in many ways, it still looks like the old movies. But, and this is important... there are some HUGE differences.
This is squarely targeted at young movie goers, teens and after teens. It is rated R, and deservedly so. The teen characters in this movie look and act nothing like the teens of movies past. The teens in the originals had their problems and reflected the era at the time. Let's hope that that's not true here. These teens here are rich, bratty kids, who have no respect for any one's property, or belongings. They spend every waking hour looking for drugs, or doing drugs, or hoping to start trafficking drugs. They are angry by nature, they can't say a sentence that's not laced with awful language, and they don't respect each other, themselves, or anyone else. They spend a life's savings on drugs, and drug paraphernalia, booze, and porn.
They drink non-stop all while smoking pot non-stop, drive Escalades, trash their parents million dollar beach house, have sex with whoever is available, and video tape themselves doing that, and every other thing you can imagine. They are so unlikeable you may actually have some empathy for Jason. The reason I bring this up is this. It's no secret that minors sneak into R rated movies all the time. I did see hastily made signs at the theater today stating that they will be patrolling the theaters and minors will not be tolerated in R rated movies. I think it's in relation to this movie. All of the mentioned behavior is completely glorified to the hilt, and you may not be keen on your kids witnessing this presented in this manner on screen. If you're fine with it, disregard the above.
To it's credit, there are some "jolty" moments, and there is a sense of suspense at times. There is also a feeble attempt at the "beauty and the beast" formula, that fails miserably. And the ending you'll see coming a mile away. But if it's slashing and blood you want, then Friday The 13th is the pick of the weekend for you. I don't mind a good slasher movie at all, I grew up with them too, but there is nothing new here at all in the slasher realm.
Friday The 13th. It's just what you remember at times. But was really scary here had nothing to do with the shash-er. The real scary part for me were the shash-ees!
Check out all of my currnet movie review now http://www.akronnewsnow.com/entertainment_movies_expand.asp
This is movie number twelve in this series and it attempts to introduce the whole concept to a new and younger generation of movie goers. It borrows some of the history from the first four movies, and then whips it up with a new, contemporary look. This may shock you, but in many ways, it still looks like the old movies. But, and this is important... there are some HUGE differences.
This is squarely targeted at young movie goers, teens and after teens. It is rated R, and deservedly so. The teen characters in this movie look and act nothing like the teens of movies past. The teens in the originals had their problems and reflected the era at the time. Let's hope that that's not true here. These teens here are rich, bratty kids, who have no respect for any one's property, or belongings. They spend every waking hour looking for drugs, or doing drugs, or hoping to start trafficking drugs. They are angry by nature, they can't say a sentence that's not laced with awful language, and they don't respect each other, themselves, or anyone else. They spend a life's savings on drugs, and drug paraphernalia, booze, and porn.
They drink non-stop all while smoking pot non-stop, drive Escalades, trash their parents million dollar beach house, have sex with whoever is available, and video tape themselves doing that, and every other thing you can imagine. They are so unlikeable you may actually have some empathy for Jason. The reason I bring this up is this. It's no secret that minors sneak into R rated movies all the time. I did see hastily made signs at the theater today stating that they will be patrolling the theaters and minors will not be tolerated in R rated movies. I think it's in relation to this movie. All of the mentioned behavior is completely glorified to the hilt, and you may not be keen on your kids witnessing this presented in this manner on screen. If you're fine with it, disregard the above.
To it's credit, there are some "jolty" moments, and there is a sense of suspense at times. There is also a feeble attempt at the "beauty and the beast" formula, that fails miserably. And the ending you'll see coming a mile away. But if it's slashing and blood you want, then Friday The 13th is the pick of the weekend for you. I don't mind a good slasher movie at all, I grew up with them too, but there is nothing new here at all in the slasher realm.
Friday The 13th. It's just what you remember at times. But was really scary here had nothing to do with the shash-er. The real scary part for me were the shash-ees!
Check out all of my currnet movie review now http://www.akronnewsnow.com/entertainment_movies_expand.asp
Thursday, February 12, 2009
MOVIE REVIEW - The Uninvited
A week or two ago the new scary flick The Uninvited hit the theaters, and the thud was ...well a thud. The Uninvited, should have been left off the guest list.
This is the story of a young girl, Anna, and her dealing with the death of her mother, who died under suspicious circumstances. Her incredibly rich author father has taken up residence with his new girlfriend, who appears to be 20 years his junior. Anna unable to cope with her loss and life's rapidly changing pace, is placed in a mental institution after a suicide attempt. At the movies start she is released and is sent home.
Anna cannot deal with all the changes in her young life. Her runaway imagination has her thinking her mother was killed by the new girlfriend, and we're supposed to believe it too. Trouble here is. we don't really care about any of these people, and that's TI's really big problem. There's just no real interest in the whole thing.
I was checking my watch plenty during this borefest wondering if I was going to stay awake long enough to witness the inevitable plot twist that was bound to come. You didn't know exactly what it was, but you know it's coming. Luckily for me I wasn't snoozing when it happened, but I should have been. (Good thing I napped beforehand) The performances are average, the plot has been done to death and there is no new ground broken here. They did film this movie though at one of the greatest houses you will ever see anywhere, that was cool.
There's nothing to this mess. Predictable, and formula driven, you're way ahead of this movie most of the time. Warning too....this movie is not scary! They want you to think it is, but it's not! It's just dark, and dim.
The Uninvited. Not inviting!
This is the story of a young girl, Anna, and her dealing with the death of her mother, who died under suspicious circumstances. Her incredibly rich author father has taken up residence with his new girlfriend, who appears to be 20 years his junior. Anna unable to cope with her loss and life's rapidly changing pace, is placed in a mental institution after a suicide attempt. At the movies start she is released and is sent home.
Anna cannot deal with all the changes in her young life. Her runaway imagination has her thinking her mother was killed by the new girlfriend, and we're supposed to believe it too. Trouble here is. we don't really care about any of these people, and that's TI's really big problem. There's just no real interest in the whole thing.
I was checking my watch plenty during this borefest wondering if I was going to stay awake long enough to witness the inevitable plot twist that was bound to come. You didn't know exactly what it was, but you know it's coming. Luckily for me I wasn't snoozing when it happened, but I should have been. (Good thing I napped beforehand) The performances are average, the plot has been done to death and there is no new ground broken here. They did film this movie though at one of the greatest houses you will ever see anywhere, that was cool.
There's nothing to this mess. Predictable, and formula driven, you're way ahead of this movie most of the time. Warning too....this movie is not scary! They want you to think it is, but it's not! It's just dark, and dim.
The Uninvited. Not inviting!
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Why Should Anyone Be Surprised?
I was watching TV this week as were you more than likely and heard the news about Alex Rodriguez admitting to steroids use. And then Miguel Tejada being charged with lying to Congress in connection to the steroid thing. And the audio introduction was almost laughable. "And the sports world has been shocked at the A-Rod Story!"
Are you kidding me? Seriously, are you kidding me? Was anyone really shocked at the fact that yet two more of the sports biggest stars are mixed up in the whole steroid mess? What world are these TV people living in?
No one is a bigger baseball fan than me. I love the game, playing, going to the game, watching it on TV, following the game, box scores, going to Spring Training games. I love all that is baseball. The game itself is one of life's really great teachers in the game of life. You win, and you lose. No game mirrors real life better than baseball, in it's purest form. And now unfortunately in it's ugly side as well.
In Major League Baseball the climate has changed. Many of the players now seem to view the game more as entertainment rather than a game. And they've taken on many of the attributes that have been chasing Hollywood stars for decades. The "above it all" attitude." It's been that way since Babe Ruth for a certain few, but now it seems to be the prevailing theme. Lot's of these guys just think they can do what they want, when they want, whenever they want. And it's really tough to watch. Just as tough as many of the Hollywood "stars."
A-Rod this week just looks horrible. Lying, cheating, and spinning everything, bordering on trying to look like the victim. Are you kidding me? Pressure from the big contract? I'm totally insulted, and you should be too. A-Rod only had about a jillion dollars in the bank BEFORE the big contract with the Rangers, and Yankees, so the pressure was clearly off. He just thought he was above it all, and that rules, consequences and doing the honorable thing was for other people. I write this today confident that A-Rod doesn't realize how bad he looks here, nor does he care. He still has the money, and it keeps pouring in.
Tejada? How long has been a good idea to lie to the federal government about a legal and topical issue? Never. What world is he living in? Clearly, the same world A-Rod is. Another bonehead decision. But again, the cash has been coming in, and the money train will continue to stop frequently at his bank.
So why on earth should we be surprised or shocked at any of this stuff. Shocking would be one of these clowns who gets caught juicing actually getting in front of their problems, and taking real responsibility for it, and quit trying to make themselves look anything but what they are. - Wrong! Dead Wrong! I would like to hear the whole story from just one of these guys, how much, how long, how much money it cost them, and who else did it with them, and the real reason they did it. Because it's flat out the money. Remember, it's entertainment not a game to them.
For those down the road who will be exposed, quit insulting us for crying out loud, and be an example for young people to follow, and finally be a major leaguer.....in life. Because the guys considered to be the best Major Leaguer, just proved he's nothing more than bush-league!
Are you kidding me? Seriously, are you kidding me? Was anyone really shocked at the fact that yet two more of the sports biggest stars are mixed up in the whole steroid mess? What world are these TV people living in?
No one is a bigger baseball fan than me. I love the game, playing, going to the game, watching it on TV, following the game, box scores, going to Spring Training games. I love all that is baseball. The game itself is one of life's really great teachers in the game of life. You win, and you lose. No game mirrors real life better than baseball, in it's purest form. And now unfortunately in it's ugly side as well.
In Major League Baseball the climate has changed. Many of the players now seem to view the game more as entertainment rather than a game. And they've taken on many of the attributes that have been chasing Hollywood stars for decades. The "above it all" attitude." It's been that way since Babe Ruth for a certain few, but now it seems to be the prevailing theme. Lot's of these guys just think they can do what they want, when they want, whenever they want. And it's really tough to watch. Just as tough as many of the Hollywood "stars."
A-Rod this week just looks horrible. Lying, cheating, and spinning everything, bordering on trying to look like the victim. Are you kidding me? Pressure from the big contract? I'm totally insulted, and you should be too. A-Rod only had about a jillion dollars in the bank BEFORE the big contract with the Rangers, and Yankees, so the pressure was clearly off. He just thought he was above it all, and that rules, consequences and doing the honorable thing was for other people. I write this today confident that A-Rod doesn't realize how bad he looks here, nor does he care. He still has the money, and it keeps pouring in.
Tejada? How long has been a good idea to lie to the federal government about a legal and topical issue? Never. What world is he living in? Clearly, the same world A-Rod is. Another bonehead decision. But again, the cash has been coming in, and the money train will continue to stop frequently at his bank.
So why on earth should we be surprised or shocked at any of this stuff. Shocking would be one of these clowns who gets caught juicing actually getting in front of their problems, and taking real responsibility for it, and quit trying to make themselves look anything but what they are. - Wrong! Dead Wrong! I would like to hear the whole story from just one of these guys, how much, how long, how much money it cost them, and who else did it with them, and the real reason they did it. Because it's flat out the money. Remember, it's entertainment not a game to them.
For those down the road who will be exposed, quit insulting us for crying out loud, and be an example for young people to follow, and finally be a major leaguer.....in life. Because the guys considered to be the best Major Leaguer, just proved he's nothing more than bush-league!
Saturday, February 7, 2009
MOVIE REVIEW - He's Just Not That Into You.
Every actor in Hollywood seemingly lined up behind each other to star in the new box office hit He's Just Not That Into You. The list of Hollywood B plus types is too long to list, and but you've seen the trailers and you know how they are.
This is a movie version of a big book of the same name written a few years ago, that looks at modern day young love and it's new hurdles. It also looks at some of the same old timeless rifts between men and women and the way they look at love, romance, dating, infidelity, being married, getting married, living together and just how we try to communicate.
It's a twisted, complicated formula, where all the characters seemingly detached at the movies outset, are actually all tied together at the movies end. There are some really funny moments here, and the look at love and relationships is honest, even brutal at times. There's a sense of realness here too that makes everyone in the audience totally relate to one, or maybe two of the characters. You may have been one, or two of them in your own life.
With all the star power here, I will tell you the movies gem is the lesser know of the bunch. Make NO mistake this movie belongs to Ginnifer Goodwin - period. She is the "lead" character, single and starving for love. She is attractive, smart, pleasant, and totally attention hungry. Her skills with boys or men is atrocious and she provides this movie with virtually all it's fun, laughs, heart and soul. She is a pathetically dating challenged young woman, who has all this drama surrounding her, as she attempts to carve out true love for herself out of granite using a spoon.
Goodwin is terrific! The rest are good, but all sit in the back seat with Goodwin clearly at the wheel. I'm not sure if this is a romantic comedy or a docudrama about love, probably both. BUT this is a good time at the movies to be sure. Plus it will stir up plenty of coffee shop fodder afterwards. Good for all who are in love, or want to be, this is a fun flick overall.
But be warned, there are problems. One is the length, 2 hours 10 minutes. Too long! And there are too many characters. Example- There is no reason for Drew Barrymore to be in this movie. Her character is basically written out, and that whole plot line was not needed. At times all seem to be battling for screen time, but you would expect as much from this many stars in on place at one time.
He's Just Not That Into You. Goodwin = Goodtime!
This is a movie version of a big book of the same name written a few years ago, that looks at modern day young love and it's new hurdles. It also looks at some of the same old timeless rifts between men and women and the way they look at love, romance, dating, infidelity, being married, getting married, living together and just how we try to communicate.
It's a twisted, complicated formula, where all the characters seemingly detached at the movies outset, are actually all tied together at the movies end. There are some really funny moments here, and the look at love and relationships is honest, even brutal at times. There's a sense of realness here too that makes everyone in the audience totally relate to one, or maybe two of the characters. You may have been one, or two of them in your own life.
With all the star power here, I will tell you the movies gem is the lesser know of the bunch. Make NO mistake this movie belongs to Ginnifer Goodwin - period. She is the "lead" character, single and starving for love. She is attractive, smart, pleasant, and totally attention hungry. Her skills with boys or men is atrocious and she provides this movie with virtually all it's fun, laughs, heart and soul. She is a pathetically dating challenged young woman, who has all this drama surrounding her, as she attempts to carve out true love for herself out of granite using a spoon.
Goodwin is terrific! The rest are good, but all sit in the back seat with Goodwin clearly at the wheel. I'm not sure if this is a romantic comedy or a docudrama about love, probably both. BUT this is a good time at the movies to be sure. Plus it will stir up plenty of coffee shop fodder afterwards. Good for all who are in love, or want to be, this is a fun flick overall.
But be warned, there are problems. One is the length, 2 hours 10 minutes. Too long! And there are too many characters. Example- There is no reason for Drew Barrymore to be in this movie. Her character is basically written out, and that whole plot line was not needed. At times all seem to be battling for screen time, but you would expect as much from this many stars in on place at one time.
He's Just Not That Into You. Goodwin = Goodtime!
Friday, February 6, 2009
MOVIE REVIEW - The Wrestler
The Wrestler is out now in sort of wide release, has a few nominations to it's credit, and is has been touted as the comeback of Mickey Rourke. Huh? The comeback of Mickey Rourke? Have we been waiting for this?
The Wrestler is a chilling, raw, gritty piece starring Rourke as "Randy The Ram" a professional wrestler from the mid 1980's, when pro wrestling was really starting to become HUGE business. It's it now 20 plus years later, he's older, tired, broken down, and has problems a plenty, trying to survive in the wrestling world still. Randy has never grown up, and has blown every opportunity presented to him recently through self-destruction. He's a nice enough guy, he's just a broken down shell of a wrestler that he once was. He has wandered though life with no plan, or vision for life after wrestling. Randy has mistakenly believed the crowds would never turn on him and the money and fame would always be there for the taking - forever.
He befriends a stripper, "Cassidy" (Marissa Tomei) who herself passed her stripping prime 10 years ago. She too is surviving in a world that has grown up without her tagging along. Randy has a grown daughter that doesn't care much for him or his irresponsible way of life. The Wrestler walks us through Randy's journey to try to reclaim some of the "glory" from his life 2o years ago in the wrestling ring, that we learn in the long run has not been good to him. He is also desperate for someone in his life, thus the attempted reconnect with his daughter, and a love interest in Cassidy.
The Wrestler is certainly interesting film making. It's shot in sort of a docu-drama format. There's no narration, but sometimes it has that feel of a PBS special and a movie combined into one. To it's credit, it's a very honest look as a very dishonest "sport." It's raw, edgy, gritty, and very palpable at times, and those are all good things. Rourke is strong as our hero, and the fact that he's been out of the spotlight himself, makes him very believable in this role. Tomei, again is perfectly cast, and really takes huge risks with her lack of wardrobe for most of her moments on screen.
But after looking at all the positives and there are many, The Wrestler to me in a word? Overrated. There's nothing terribly wrong here, there's just nothing over the top right either. I like honest movies and The Wrestler is one. But this movie only possesses the elements of being good, not being great. It is a solid movie, not a great one as Hollywood would have you believe. Although, if you are of the age now that can walk back to the mid 80's when wrestling was a big part of your life, this movie will speak directly to you and you will connect.
The Wrestler. Good. Not Great.
The Wrestler is a chilling, raw, gritty piece starring Rourke as "Randy The Ram" a professional wrestler from the mid 1980's, when pro wrestling was really starting to become HUGE business. It's it now 20 plus years later, he's older, tired, broken down, and has problems a plenty, trying to survive in the wrestling world still. Randy has never grown up, and has blown every opportunity presented to him recently through self-destruction. He's a nice enough guy, he's just a broken down shell of a wrestler that he once was. He has wandered though life with no plan, or vision for life after wrestling. Randy has mistakenly believed the crowds would never turn on him and the money and fame would always be there for the taking - forever.
He befriends a stripper, "Cassidy" (Marissa Tomei) who herself passed her stripping prime 10 years ago. She too is surviving in a world that has grown up without her tagging along. Randy has a grown daughter that doesn't care much for him or his irresponsible way of life. The Wrestler walks us through Randy's journey to try to reclaim some of the "glory" from his life 2o years ago in the wrestling ring, that we learn in the long run has not been good to him. He is also desperate for someone in his life, thus the attempted reconnect with his daughter, and a love interest in Cassidy.
The Wrestler is certainly interesting film making. It's shot in sort of a docu-drama format. There's no narration, but sometimes it has that feel of a PBS special and a movie combined into one. To it's credit, it's a very honest look as a very dishonest "sport." It's raw, edgy, gritty, and very palpable at times, and those are all good things. Rourke is strong as our hero, and the fact that he's been out of the spotlight himself, makes him very believable in this role. Tomei, again is perfectly cast, and really takes huge risks with her lack of wardrobe for most of her moments on screen.
But after looking at all the positives and there are many, The Wrestler to me in a word? Overrated. There's nothing terribly wrong here, there's just nothing over the top right either. I like honest movies and The Wrestler is one. But this movie only possesses the elements of being good, not being great. It is a solid movie, not a great one as Hollywood would have you believe. Although, if you are of the age now that can walk back to the mid 80's when wrestling was a big part of your life, this movie will speak directly to you and you will connect.
The Wrestler. Good. Not Great.
Monday, February 2, 2009
MOVIE REVIEW - New In Town
New In Town, the new Renee Zellweger/Harry Connick Jr. romantic comedy hit the box office with a tremendous thud this weekend, and deservedly so. This movie has a few problems, the main one being, too much "Z" and not enough "C Jr."
NIT is the story of a powerful Miami business woman (Zellweger) who is trying to become a Vice President in this major food conglomerate. (Zellweger as a high power business woman? Boy, that's believable isn't it?) She volunteers to go to rural Minnesota to help spearhead one of their manufacturing plants as they convert over to automation and eliminate a bunch of jobs. She has to live there for a number of months, and learn the ways of the quirky Minnesotans. This is supposed to be the funny part.
She meets Ted (Connick Jr.) and of course he's on the opposite end. He's a blue collar, slob of sorts. He is also the head of the local union that represents all the people in the plant. He drives a truck, listens to country music, in other words, light years from her. And guess what? They fall in love. No need for Sominex tonight, this will make you snooze. The old and tired fancy girl and slobby guy routine. That's the romantic part.
NIT looks like a fun movie at first glance, but it's not. This movie is so awkward at times it borders on the uncomfortable. It's not written, or acted well, and is no where near original. Zellweger falls flat on her face. She was exceptionally funny in the Bridgette Jones movies, and should get kudos there. But here? Too much of her NOT being funny, or attractive, or likeable, endearing, or anything. "Open up the bomb bay doors....it's bombs away!." Connick Jr, is certainly likeable enough, but there's too little of him, and even his major league charm can't save NIT from first circling the drain, and then going down it at 500 mph.
Finally, the lampooning of the accents and quirkiness of the folks from Minnesota has been done to death since the terrific Fargo in the 1990's. And they did it great! We've seen it all before now, and even that's old and tired.
New In Town. Looks fun...by and large it's not. You can do better for your money in the theater next door, and I don't even know what's playing there.
NIT is the story of a powerful Miami business woman (Zellweger) who is trying to become a Vice President in this major food conglomerate. (Zellweger as a high power business woman? Boy, that's believable isn't it?) She volunteers to go to rural Minnesota to help spearhead one of their manufacturing plants as they convert over to automation and eliminate a bunch of jobs. She has to live there for a number of months, and learn the ways of the quirky Minnesotans. This is supposed to be the funny part.
She meets Ted (Connick Jr.) and of course he's on the opposite end. He's a blue collar, slob of sorts. He is also the head of the local union that represents all the people in the plant. He drives a truck, listens to country music, in other words, light years from her. And guess what? They fall in love. No need for Sominex tonight, this will make you snooze. The old and tired fancy girl and slobby guy routine. That's the romantic part.
NIT looks like a fun movie at first glance, but it's not. This movie is so awkward at times it borders on the uncomfortable. It's not written, or acted well, and is no where near original. Zellweger falls flat on her face. She was exceptionally funny in the Bridgette Jones movies, and should get kudos there. But here? Too much of her NOT being funny, or attractive, or likeable, endearing, or anything. "Open up the bomb bay doors....it's bombs away!." Connick Jr, is certainly likeable enough, but there's too little of him, and even his major league charm can't save NIT from first circling the drain, and then going down it at 500 mph.
Finally, the lampooning of the accents and quirkiness of the folks from Minnesota has been done to death since the terrific Fargo in the 1990's. And they did it great! We've seen it all before now, and even that's old and tired.
New In Town. Looks fun...by and large it's not. You can do better for your money in the theater next door, and I don't even know what's playing there.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
I'm Not Buyin' It!
Sitting in my home office today, Superbowl Sunday I'm looking out at a beautiful, sunny,winter day. Temperatures around 45....aw yes...a thaw from winters icy grip. We're all crammed full of blissful glee, until we see the long term forecast for the next ten days or so. So today's a big tease.
This has been pretty tough winter so far, and we're just in first days of February. I don't know about you, but I've had enough. But those who claim they haven't had enough? The ones that make bold claims about how much they love winter? That's a lot of gas, I'm not buyin' it!
I have this theory. I'm good with snow, the cold and ice and white Christmases and the whole bit from Thanksgiving till New Years Day. Why not? It's nice, pretty, gives the whole holiday season a nice touch. Then on January 2? It can be 75 degrees again, because the winter is no longer adding to the ambiance. As a matter of fact it becomes a royal pain in the ambiance. Pristine snow turns to snirt (snow and dirt) and slush, (no translation required.) Lovely! You say you don't mind that? I'm not buyin' it!
Don't hand me this cra......crud about nice winter. How's the driving been treating you? Boy hasn't the shoveling been a joy? Okay maybe you're like me and you have a snow blower. That maniacal bliss of throwing one of mother natures elements several yards, wears off after about 30 days. How have those stalagtights hanging from your house been? Fallen yet? Battery cacked yet? Gas and electric bills ....a laugh a minute too huh?
All of the forementioned are just backing for my theory mentioned above. About 30 days of this stuff is all we really need. After that, it's just not fun anymore. We've been sledding, skiing, and strolled through the winter wonderland at the holidays. Now were just ticked! Even the most die hard skier has to run in from the slopes to sit in front of the fire in the lodge and drink a Toddie or two. If it's really so great out there, just finish off a great night at the slopes, pitch a tent an sleep outside with all the rest of your cold weather companions. The rest of us have bbq's to have, golf to play, and cars to wash in our shorts!
All kidding aside, In think we've paid our dues this winter, and we need a break. Now Monday that stinkin' rat, I mean cute little groundhog comes out of the ground and gives us the skinny. More winter or early spring. That's a bunch of hooey too. We trust a bunch of guys in tuxedos and stove pipe hats, who have been hitting the sauce since 5 am on a cold day in February in a town in Pennsylvania that has about 9 people in it to correctly interpret an uninterested rodents meteorological mentality. Are we nuts? I'm not buyin' it!
Someone better sober those clowns up and have a talk with that rat. We need an early spring!
You can read all my blogs here http://www.akronnewsnow.com/blogs/scottwynnswindow/
This has been pretty tough winter so far, and we're just in first days of February. I don't know about you, but I've had enough. But those who claim they haven't had enough? The ones that make bold claims about how much they love winter? That's a lot of gas, I'm not buyin' it!
I have this theory. I'm good with snow, the cold and ice and white Christmases and the whole bit from Thanksgiving till New Years Day. Why not? It's nice, pretty, gives the whole holiday season a nice touch. Then on January 2? It can be 75 degrees again, because the winter is no longer adding to the ambiance. As a matter of fact it becomes a royal pain in the ambiance. Pristine snow turns to snirt (snow and dirt) and slush, (no translation required.) Lovely! You say you don't mind that? I'm not buyin' it!
Don't hand me this cra......crud about nice winter. How's the driving been treating you? Boy hasn't the shoveling been a joy? Okay maybe you're like me and you have a snow blower. That maniacal bliss of throwing one of mother natures elements several yards, wears off after about 30 days. How have those stalagtights hanging from your house been? Fallen yet? Battery cacked yet? Gas and electric bills ....a laugh a minute too huh?
All of the forementioned are just backing for my theory mentioned above. About 30 days of this stuff is all we really need. After that, it's just not fun anymore. We've been sledding, skiing, and strolled through the winter wonderland at the holidays. Now were just ticked! Even the most die hard skier has to run in from the slopes to sit in front of the fire in the lodge and drink a Toddie or two. If it's really so great out there, just finish off a great night at the slopes, pitch a tent an sleep outside with all the rest of your cold weather companions. The rest of us have bbq's to have, golf to play, and cars to wash in our shorts!
All kidding aside, In think we've paid our dues this winter, and we need a break. Now Monday that stinkin' rat, I mean cute little groundhog comes out of the ground and gives us the skinny. More winter or early spring. That's a bunch of hooey too. We trust a bunch of guys in tuxedos and stove pipe hats, who have been hitting the sauce since 5 am on a cold day in February in a town in Pennsylvania that has about 9 people in it to correctly interpret an uninterested rodents meteorological mentality. Are we nuts? I'm not buyin' it!
Someone better sober those clowns up and have a talk with that rat. We need an early spring!
You can read all my blogs here http://www.akronnewsnow.com/blogs/scottwynnswindow/
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