For those wondering what is left in the movie line-up for the year, there’s a sci-fi film with Mr. Denzel Washington coming up. I hope it’s better than the Virtuosity film he did a while back. Though I did enjoy Sid 6.6. There is also a new Mr. Jet Li film, Fearless, a period piece that looks pretty good. I love the martial arts period movies, brings me back to the days I’d watch the Five Deadly Venoms with my father in the theatre. And if you want to just numb your mind, and I do consider it an equivalent of letting a mule kick you in the head, there is Mr. Johnny Knoxville in Jackass 2. One thing I can say for Mr. Knoxville is that its finally a movie he can’t screw up by being in. Of course I can’t imagine why anyone with more than 3 brain cells functioning would want to watch it.
There is a WW II feature from Mr. Clint Eastwood and another with Mr. George Clooney, a new film that I think is a comedy with Mr. Robin Williams, and Mr. Will Ferrell will take a turn at a dramatic role. Each of these has some point of interest and I’m looking forward to each for those reasons. That is except for the Knoxville film. Why anyone would pay to see fools acting badly is beyond me. I hope this trend in films, and television shows ends faster than the reality craze has. But considering the lows of television today I would hardly be surprised by a whole slew of this garbage proliferating the big and small screens.
But one thing in common with all these movies, and one that will probably fly under the radar – This Film is Not Yet Rated – is the MPAA rating. The MPAA is the group that hands out the PG, R, NC-17 and other ratings movies receive. What is unusual about this group is that their identities are secret. The organization calls the rating body “average Americans”, whatever that means. Funny how a group that determines what kids can see, and affects how movies reach the public, is one of the most guarded secrets in Hollywood for over 30 years. Thus This Film is Not Yet Rated is the documentary of seeking out these people and learning a bit about them. It may be a sleeper film but I think it could be worth the time.
On a sad note, actor Glenn Ford has passed. In 85 films over a 53 year career, Mr. Ford was a constant of quality in various movies. While some of the youth of today may not recall Mr. Ford by name, I’m sure they have seen some of his movies. Superman, Torpedo Run, Blackboard Jungle, and many others are some of the movies that this WW II Marine veteran has been in. Mr. Ford may not have been an Oscar winner, nor the darling of the scandal sheets, but he was a solid entertainer that withstood the passage of time.
In an odd bit of entertainment news from down under gas prices have created a bit of innovation. Like here in America prices for gas are up, and supermarkets are giving discounts with a receipt for filling your tank. Not to be out done brothels are also helping those whose pockets are feeling a pinch. Customers get a discount on their activities with their full gas tank receipt. Now why aren’t there any deals like that here? Not that I’m advocating brothels, but a discount on entertainment would be nice.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
Bad ideas, Emmy Awards and Ramon Estevez
There are some things in this world that I find hard to understand. I understand fine dining. I get that a catchy name captures the attention. But what mind would consider Hitler’s Cross a good name for a restaurant? I realize that it didn’t last long, and that India only has roughly 5,000 Jews. But should the number of Jews in a nation really make a difference on such a bad idea? It’s just offensive. The fact that politicians and celebrities were on hand for the opening, and then turned around denouncing the place just days later is not only duplicitous but shocking.
In other insulting news, it hasn’t taken long for the ill-conceived premise of the latest season of Survivor to evoke ugliness. Mr. Rush Limbaugh has become the first, of I fear to guess how many individuals, to comment with what I interpret as a small-minded response. I must quote him to capture the scope of it, “Right-wing mouthpiece Rush Limbaugh, always keen to harangue on delicate subjects, took to handicapping the new season on his radio show Wednesday.
Hispanics, he said, "have shown a remarkable ability to cross borders" and "will do things other people won't do." Asians, per Limbaugh, are "the best at espionage, keeping secrets." Blacks "lack buoyancy" and are "more likely to drown," while the white man's burden will weigh down the last team with "guilt over the fact that they run things."
Statements like that make me feel like he would have enjoyed the above mentioned restaurant. And it will only get worse if the show is allowed to air on television. Is CBS so desperate as to sink this low to get ratings? I’d love to see a boycott of the station is this program is allowed to continue. Somehow I doubt it though.
On brighter and happier news, the Emmy Awards were announced. It truly is my pleasure to congratulate Mr. Andre Braugher for his win, as I thought his work on Thief was fantastic which I reviewed in my post FX television shows and quality TV. Also Mr. Alan Alda was recognized for his work on The West Wing, a show filled with great performances and deep thought. To few television programs contain such quality, both in writing and acting. Perhaps the execs in charge of greenlighting the reality shows should watch these shows and learn that you get what you pay for.
Lastly I want to cheer Mr. Martin Sheen (real name is Ramon Estevez, yep he’s Hispanic!) While Mr. Sheen has had a great career, though often snubbed by the Emmy’s for his work on The West Wing, he never finished high school. That never stopped him from standing up for causes he felt were worthwhile. That is something I’ve always respected even if I disagreed with the particular cause from time to time. But Mr. Estevez has gone a step further, currently planning to go back to school and finishing his studies. I find it impressive that a man with his stature and wealth can acknowledge that higher learning is worth attaining at any age. That self-improvement doesn’t end when you get a nice paycheck. I wish more athletes that forgo college to seek sports careers would realize this.
This is what I think, what do you think?
In other insulting news, it hasn’t taken long for the ill-conceived premise of the latest season of Survivor to evoke ugliness. Mr. Rush Limbaugh has become the first, of I fear to guess how many individuals, to comment with what I interpret as a small-minded response. I must quote him to capture the scope of it, “Right-wing mouthpiece Rush Limbaugh, always keen to harangue on delicate subjects, took to handicapping the new season on his radio show Wednesday.
Hispanics, he said, "have shown a remarkable ability to cross borders" and "will do things other people won't do." Asians, per Limbaugh, are "the best at espionage, keeping secrets." Blacks "lack buoyancy" and are "more likely to drown," while the white man's burden will weigh down the last team with "guilt over the fact that they run things."
Statements like that make me feel like he would have enjoyed the above mentioned restaurant. And it will only get worse if the show is allowed to air on television. Is CBS so desperate as to sink this low to get ratings? I’d love to see a boycott of the station is this program is allowed to continue. Somehow I doubt it though.
On brighter and happier news, the Emmy Awards were announced. It truly is my pleasure to congratulate Mr. Andre Braugher for his win, as I thought his work on Thief was fantastic which I reviewed in my post FX television shows and quality TV. Also Mr. Alan Alda was recognized for his work on The West Wing, a show filled with great performances and deep thought. To few television programs contain such quality, both in writing and acting. Perhaps the execs in charge of greenlighting the reality shows should watch these shows and learn that you get what you pay for.
Lastly I want to cheer Mr. Martin Sheen (real name is Ramon Estevez, yep he’s Hispanic!) While Mr. Sheen has had a great career, though often snubbed by the Emmy’s for his work on The West Wing, he never finished high school. That never stopped him from standing up for causes he felt were worthwhile. That is something I’ve always respected even if I disagreed with the particular cause from time to time. But Mr. Estevez has gone a step further, currently planning to go back to school and finishing his studies. I find it impressive that a man with his stature and wealth can acknowledge that higher learning is worth attaining at any age. That self-improvement doesn’t end when you get a nice paycheck. I wish more athletes that forgo college to seek sports careers would realize this.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Boobs at funerals and bikes, tall advantage and Stephen Colbert
I know that there are different traditions followed across the world that may seem odd to Americans. I have lived overseas and learned to appreciate the differences that abound, and to enjoy the traditions I’ve grown up with. But there are some things that get my head spinning. One tradition I understand is in China where it is felt that the more mourners that come to a funeral, the more the dead is honored. What I don’t understand is the tradition in the Donghai county to have strippers performing at the funeral. While hundreds can attend, it does seem odd to me. Of course some officials in China have recently felt the same and now require plans to be submitted after a persons death. Not quite preventing the strippers but quite unusual to me. I do wonder how the strippers feel on such an occasion; and as for those watching I have to ask – do they tip? I just can’t imagine it.
In other odd news, while not a tradition a parade in New Zealand recently also caused a fuss. It seems that 25 porn stars had a parade, riding bikes and tanks. Different but what makes it odd is the fact that the women were bare breasted. Of course there were the usual protesters that one would expect at such an event. There were thousands of onlookers, no arrests and a union protest was interrupted. Somehow I don’t think the union protestors were too dismayed. If you were wondering how this happened, in New Zealand it is lawful to be topless. A bit far for spring break, or the religious right, but there you go.
Following this theme of odd bits, if you happen to be about 4 inches taller than average you should feel pretty good now. At least if you are in the U.S. or United Kingdom. It seems that researchers have found that this increase equates to better work conditions and higher pay by about 10%. It brings back of memories of the infamous song Short People [if you are younger than about 33 you will have no idea. The song is banned from being played on public airwaves. But it is very funny]. Still if you aren’t getting clothes custom made don’t feel bad. Mr. Bill Gates is only 5’10 ½”, hardly a giant.
And score 2 for Mr. Stephen Colbert. As long-time readers know I am a fan of Mr. Colbert’s show, and I’m not the only one. 2 terms used on his show, Truthiness and Wikiality have become top buzzwords for television. If you don’t know their meanings yet, check out the show. I think that we may see them catch on and become more common in the near term. Especially truthiness, a real term that Mr. Colbert has modified to properly fit into the theme of his show.
It kind of reminds me of back in junior high school, when a couple of friends and I started to use the term Dis, because it was the prefix meaning not, to see if it would catch on. Yes I claim that 7 kids in 8th grade in the Bronx started a slang that still is in use today.
This is what I think, what do you think?
In other odd news, while not a tradition a parade in New Zealand recently also caused a fuss. It seems that 25 porn stars had a parade, riding bikes and tanks. Different but what makes it odd is the fact that the women were bare breasted. Of course there were the usual protesters that one would expect at such an event. There were thousands of onlookers, no arrests and a union protest was interrupted. Somehow I don’t think the union protestors were too dismayed. If you were wondering how this happened, in New Zealand it is lawful to be topless. A bit far for spring break, or the religious right, but there you go.
Following this theme of odd bits, if you happen to be about 4 inches taller than average you should feel pretty good now. At least if you are in the U.S. or United Kingdom. It seems that researchers have found that this increase equates to better work conditions and higher pay by about 10%. It brings back of memories of the infamous song Short People [if you are younger than about 33 you will have no idea. The song is banned from being played on public airwaves. But it is very funny]. Still if you aren’t getting clothes custom made don’t feel bad. Mr. Bill Gates is only 5’10 ½”, hardly a giant.
And score 2 for Mr. Stephen Colbert. As long-time readers know I am a fan of Mr. Colbert’s show, and I’m not the only one. 2 terms used on his show, Truthiness and Wikiality have become top buzzwords for television. If you don’t know their meanings yet, check out the show. I think that we may see them catch on and become more common in the near term. Especially truthiness, a real term that Mr. Colbert has modified to properly fit into the theme of his show.
It kind of reminds me of back in junior high school, when a couple of friends and I started to use the term Dis, because it was the prefix meaning not, to see if it would catch on. Yes I claim that 7 kids in 8th grade in the Bronx started a slang that still is in use today.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Friday, August 25, 2006
E.R., C.S.I., Stargate SG-1 and the bottom of the barrel
Something interesting that I noticed is news that Mr. Forest Whitaker will be joining the cast of E.R. for a while. Mr. Whitaker has been on quite a run recently. He is incredibly talented as I mentioned recently, and if he can bring the same kind of intensity he displayed on the FX cable television program The Shield, E.R. is going to be good again. I haven’t seen the show since the loss of Mr. Noah Wyle, another actor I wish would get more work, but this could be a reason for me to start again.
Also in the news is a hint at what you can expect in the new season of CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. It seems that the season will start in a 2 part episode, revolving on the death of a character played by Mr. Danny Bonaduce. For those not familiar with Mr. Bonaduce, he played the 2nd son on the Partridge Family from the 70’s. He is also known for his rocky teens, filled with addiction and run-ins with the law. Most recently he has been a radio host. I wish Mr. Bonaduce the best, and hope that this is the restart of his career. I can’t say why, but I’ve always though he should have done better. Of course he generally meltdowns after any form of exposure on television so who knows what may happen. He and other child stars of the 70’s and 80’s really bring the negatives of Hollywood to light. But perhaps their stories, like Mr. Bonaduce’s are not over yet.
And lastly in television and cable program news is the happiest thought yet. Stargate SG-1 will be ending its prolonged run with its 10th season. While it is great that a sci-fi program finally made it to this landmark, I wish it had been a better program. Yes, I for one never liked SG-1. While the movie with Mr. Ken Russell and Mr. James Spader was quite well done, I never felt a connection to the series. Considering the number of cable networks and television stations that ran this program first run, I don’t think I was alone.
So yes I am glad it will end, though this comes with a tinge of pain as it means the end of another program for Mr. Ben Browder. Of course I think he was only added to the show to try to draw back Farscape fans that abandoned the SciFi channel like the bloated water-logged corpse that the network is. While some may have returned out of loyalty to Mr. Browder, most have not stuck with the channel that has neither appreciation nor understanding of its core audience.
And in the world of reality programming, which I do not consider a real show nor entertaining, the question of what to do to generate ratings in a realm of useless ideas? How do the ratings stay up? Segregate the players. Race is a polarizing issue in the U.S. and few things get our blood boiling like race issues. Thus the next [how many have there been now?] marathon in the Survivor series will focus on teams divided by race. In a program created due to its cheap cost and low production value, this is an even lower shot to pump up ratings. Please just end the bloody thing and move on to something actually worthwhile. Even another wrestling program would be better, marginally.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Also in the news is a hint at what you can expect in the new season of CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. It seems that the season will start in a 2 part episode, revolving on the death of a character played by Mr. Danny Bonaduce. For those not familiar with Mr. Bonaduce, he played the 2nd son on the Partridge Family from the 70’s. He is also known for his rocky teens, filled with addiction and run-ins with the law. Most recently he has been a radio host. I wish Mr. Bonaduce the best, and hope that this is the restart of his career. I can’t say why, but I’ve always though he should have done better. Of course he generally meltdowns after any form of exposure on television so who knows what may happen. He and other child stars of the 70’s and 80’s really bring the negatives of Hollywood to light. But perhaps their stories, like Mr. Bonaduce’s are not over yet.
And lastly in television and cable program news is the happiest thought yet. Stargate SG-1 will be ending its prolonged run with its 10th season. While it is great that a sci-fi program finally made it to this landmark, I wish it had been a better program. Yes, I for one never liked SG-1. While the movie with Mr. Ken Russell and Mr. James Spader was quite well done, I never felt a connection to the series. Considering the number of cable networks and television stations that ran this program first run, I don’t think I was alone.
So yes I am glad it will end, though this comes with a tinge of pain as it means the end of another program for Mr. Ben Browder. Of course I think he was only added to the show to try to draw back Farscape fans that abandoned the SciFi channel like the bloated water-logged corpse that the network is. While some may have returned out of loyalty to Mr. Browder, most have not stuck with the channel that has neither appreciation nor understanding of its core audience.
And in the world of reality programming, which I do not consider a real show nor entertaining, the question of what to do to generate ratings in a realm of useless ideas? How do the ratings stay up? Segregate the players. Race is a polarizing issue in the U.S. and few things get our blood boiling like race issues. Thus the next [how many have there been now?] marathon in the Survivor series will focus on teams divided by race. In a program created due to its cheap cost and low production value, this is an even lower shot to pump up ratings. Please just end the bloody thing and move on to something actually worthwhile. Even another wrestling program would be better, marginally.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Reflecting on the past
Recently conversations, and a commentary by DeWayne Wickham as well as seeing the Beloit College Mindset List, have had me thinking. The youth of today, with particular emphasis on the Black African American, Hispanic and other minorities, have no idea about what has happened in the past. There is no appreciation of how things were and thus no concern of how things today could affect their future.
Let me take a step towards what I mean. I am 38, which is not old though some might think me as such. I was born 2 days after Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was killed. Many of the youth today have no concept of that and it’s impact any more than the assassination of Lincoln. There has always been cable, and always channels that focus directly minorities for the youth of today. It wasn’t until the late 70’s that cable was even an idea (one that was said at the time to never be able to catch on). BET didn’t appear until the 90’s as I recall. And when I was a kid minorities on television were about 3 shows (Sanford and son, Chico and the Man, and on All in the Family – which had the Jeffersons as recurring characters only). The only Black African American comedian that was spoken about was Mr. Bill Cosby, and the main way to hear his routines was on a 12” record album.
The only way to reach someone was via a rotary phone call, and virtually nothing was so immediately important that not reaching them couldn’t wait til you could get them to pick up the phone. There were no foreign players in major league sports, and few Hispanics. R&B was called ‘black music’ and the only other format readily available was Gospel. Mr. Louis Gosset Jr. and Mr. Sidney Poitier were almost the only Black African American actors to play non-comedic roles, virtually limited to co-stars. America didn’t exist in World Cup consideration, no athlete was worth a million dollars except Mr. Muhammad Ali, and most Black African American youth that went to college were maybe the second generation to do so.
Segregation was still a reality being disabled in parts of the country. The only reason that there is a holiday for Dr. King is due to the national walk-outs conducted the day before Election Day, which included parents not sending kids to school, in honor of Dr. King and it took over a decade for that to have effect. There were no video games, gangs and gangsters were always bad guys, and when computers became available as PC’s most couldn’t afford them.
When considering all these things, many of which have only changed in the last 10 to 20 years, there is a different view seen in the world. A lot of things are not taken for granted, or assumed as normal – as if they had always been this way. And it makes the thought of what isn’t known by the general Black community, or emphasized in the current Black culture, gravely sad.
The fact that some college players have no idea about the Negro Leagues, or that there was a long time that Blacks were not allowed to play Major League Baseball – or that there was segregation in EVERY major sport – is frightening. The realization that entertainers of every minority, to varying degrees, fail to advance their respective cultures and people in lieu of making money is disgusting. Kayne West may want to be ballsy enough to denigrate the President on national TV but why hasn’t he had the balls to support candidates that can improve things. Political commentary is useless if there is no political action. Entertainers seem eager to point a finger, but where is the action to actually improve things?
And I don’t mean all entertainers. Some are striving to make changes. But far too few, far too infrequently. The world is not simple. Things take time, and change is slow. But to turn a blind eye stagnates the process. To forget what has happened is to repeat it, and to insult what was earned. Viet Nam may be as relevant to some today as WWII, but to me it involved my father. The N-word has never mean anything but the worst insult in any of the 5 languages I’ve learned. The internet isn’t just a neat way to get free music, but a way to increase my knowledge and share it. Insulting terms aren’t endearing to anyone, and gangsters don’t deserve respect or emulation.
So for some of my readers, take this into mind as you read.
This is what think, what do you think?
Let me take a step towards what I mean. I am 38, which is not old though some might think me as such. I was born 2 days after Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was killed. Many of the youth today have no concept of that and it’s impact any more than the assassination of Lincoln. There has always been cable, and always channels that focus directly minorities for the youth of today. It wasn’t until the late 70’s that cable was even an idea (one that was said at the time to never be able to catch on). BET didn’t appear until the 90’s as I recall. And when I was a kid minorities on television were about 3 shows (Sanford and son, Chico and the Man, and on All in the Family – which had the Jeffersons as recurring characters only). The only Black African American comedian that was spoken about was Mr. Bill Cosby, and the main way to hear his routines was on a 12” record album.
The only way to reach someone was via a rotary phone call, and virtually nothing was so immediately important that not reaching them couldn’t wait til you could get them to pick up the phone. There were no foreign players in major league sports, and few Hispanics. R&B was called ‘black music’ and the only other format readily available was Gospel. Mr. Louis Gosset Jr. and Mr. Sidney Poitier were almost the only Black African American actors to play non-comedic roles, virtually limited to co-stars. America didn’t exist in World Cup consideration, no athlete was worth a million dollars except Mr. Muhammad Ali, and most Black African American youth that went to college were maybe the second generation to do so.
Segregation was still a reality being disabled in parts of the country. The only reason that there is a holiday for Dr. King is due to the national walk-outs conducted the day before Election Day, which included parents not sending kids to school, in honor of Dr. King and it took over a decade for that to have effect. There were no video games, gangs and gangsters were always bad guys, and when computers became available as PC’s most couldn’t afford them.
When considering all these things, many of which have only changed in the last 10 to 20 years, there is a different view seen in the world. A lot of things are not taken for granted, or assumed as normal – as if they had always been this way. And it makes the thought of what isn’t known by the general Black community, or emphasized in the current Black culture, gravely sad.
The fact that some college players have no idea about the Negro Leagues, or that there was a long time that Blacks were not allowed to play Major League Baseball – or that there was segregation in EVERY major sport – is frightening. The realization that entertainers of every minority, to varying degrees, fail to advance their respective cultures and people in lieu of making money is disgusting. Kayne West may want to be ballsy enough to denigrate the President on national TV but why hasn’t he had the balls to support candidates that can improve things. Political commentary is useless if there is no political action. Entertainers seem eager to point a finger, but where is the action to actually improve things?
And I don’t mean all entertainers. Some are striving to make changes. But far too few, far too infrequently. The world is not simple. Things take time, and change is slow. But to turn a blind eye stagnates the process. To forget what has happened is to repeat it, and to insult what was earned. Viet Nam may be as relevant to some today as WWII, but to me it involved my father. The N-word has never mean anything but the worst insult in any of the 5 languages I’ve learned. The internet isn’t just a neat way to get free music, but a way to increase my knowledge and share it. Insulting terms aren’t endearing to anyone, and gangsters don’t deserve respect or emulation.
So for some of my readers, take this into mind as you read.
This is what think, what do you think?
Upcoming films with Jason Statham and Tony Jaa
Other films I look forward to include Crank with Mr. Jason Statham. He is a really interesting British actor, probably best known in the U.S. for his role in the Transporter and Transporter 2. I also liked his work in the remake The Italian Job, The One, and most of all Lock Stock and Two Smoking Barrels. If you haven’t seen the last one and you like action and British wit I think you will really enjoy it. Of the films Mr. Statham has done so far that is the best. Mr. Statham is definitely becoming this generation’s action genre star. He has a solid style and presence, delivering his physical scenes with credibility even when they are over the top. This is another non-Oscar contender but it looks to be a good diversion for 2 hours.
Along the same lines as Crank and Snakes on a Plane, is The Protector. Not to be confused with the Jackie Chan and Danny Aiello movie from the 80’s, this movie stars Mr. Tony Jaa and is based in Thailand. Mr. Jaa may be familiar to some for his Ong-Bak film. He is neither the next Bruce Lee, nor Jackie Chan for that matter, but is the best new face in the martial arts film genre which has needed new blood for some time.
The Covenant is a WB-styled movie [at least that is how I feel when I see the television film clips] that tries to combine the extra-human abilities of comic books (like X-men or Superman) and the current popularity in the occult (ala Charmed et al.). Very MTV-ish in style it looks like a big-budget Smallville episode. The plotline seems to follow the same style as some of the WB shows. The effects look nice, the story line seems tired. But I like well-done special effects so it might be something to see on DVD. Can’t say much more about it.
On a personal note I want to thank the reader I was speaking with yesterday. I had a very good conversation with a reader from California, a Black African American woman and public speaker. I’ll share this part of the conversation we had. It is a Chinese proverb I believe, “Success at the top of the mountain looks the same. The journey is the true key.” I’m sorry if I got the quote wrong.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Along the same lines as Crank and Snakes on a Plane, is The Protector. Not to be confused with the Jackie Chan and Danny Aiello movie from the 80’s, this movie stars Mr. Tony Jaa and is based in Thailand. Mr. Jaa may be familiar to some for his Ong-Bak film. He is neither the next Bruce Lee, nor Jackie Chan for that matter, but is the best new face in the martial arts film genre which has needed new blood for some time.
The Covenant is a WB-styled movie [at least that is how I feel when I see the television film clips] that tries to combine the extra-human abilities of comic books (like X-men or Superman) and the current popularity in the occult (ala Charmed et al.). Very MTV-ish in style it looks like a big-budget Smallville episode. The plotline seems to follow the same style as some of the WB shows. The effects look nice, the story line seems tired. But I like well-done special effects so it might be something to see on DVD. Can’t say much more about it.
On a personal note I want to thank the reader I was speaking with yesterday. I had a very good conversation with a reader from California, a Black African American woman and public speaker. I’ll share this part of the conversation we had. It is a Chinese proverb I believe, “Success at the top of the mountain looks the same. The journey is the true key.” I’m sorry if I got the quote wrong.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Busta Rhymes, Samuel Jackson and The Rock
It’s a shame. The rapper Busta Rhymes is known for his innovation and style since the mid 80’s to 90’s. I will say that some of his work was quite entertaining. He has a flare for the unique and visually captivating style. And thankfully his lyrics are not nearly as vapid as many of those commonly found today. Yet he seems no less immune to the violence that plagues the industry.
From the loss of a bodyguard in a shooting incident, to alleged assault due to an autograph request, to now an alleged assault for spitting on a car is a sad progression. Why is there such violence that seems to be attached to rap music and its top performers? And why is it that in almost each case of violence, the cause is a minor incident. Actors sports athletes, and musicians of other genres are no saints either yet we do not see such rampant and indiscriminant violence as found in rap. Then again when it’s considered that this is the one genre that seeks out and encourages former and current criminals to be its top entertainers, one shouldn’t be overly surprised by the results.
One a different thought, Snakes on a Plane has finally arrived in theaters. Mr. Samuel Jackson has another number 1 to his credit. For as much as critics have spoken about this movie, there is one fact to be remembered it hit #1. This was never expected to be a stellar movie. There was no thought that this $30 million dollar film was an Oscar contender. But it has been successful in capturing over half its cost to make in its first weekend. Odds are good that it will make its money long before it reaches cable or DVD. [To make money a movie needs to clear between 2-3x its cost.] I like Mr. Jackson, and his choices in roles appeal to fans of many genres. When critics have downplayed the revenue of this film they seem to nullify, to some degree, the fact that Mr. Jackson is so well regarded by fans that even a movie that is not Oscar-worthy has gotten the type of hype seen in few $100 million+ movies. Now if that isn’t star power in action I’d love the critics to mention what is.
Speaking of movies, there are several that will be coming out soon that seem of interest to me. Mr. Dwayne Johnson, otherwise known as The Rock, has a new film called Gridiron Gang. This is a based on a true story. It’s the story of kids that has fallen into the wrong path, imprisoned and needing to find a better way. Mr. Johnson uses football to inspire them and show these kids that there is a better way, and that their self-respect can only be lost if they allow it to be. This looks like it can be a good film, something that the young Black African Americans it targets can look at and find inspiration from.
Mr. Johnson, The Rock, has made a decent transition to film roles. Not the greatest actor, he has made his roles believable, and he has picked his roles well. This is perhaps the most dramatic role for him so far, and the most inspirational. If I am understanding the television commercials well. Given that I hope the film does well. I’m glad that Mr. Johnson is taking the chance to expand is range as an actor, especially to provide a positive image to at risk youth.
It’s interesting to note that in an effort to target more of the youth, specifically Black African Americans, Xhibit is also in this movie. I do not recall other movies he has been in, thus I fear what effect he may have on this film. As you may recall I have a poor opinion of Rappers that have little or no experience in acting garnering large roles in movies. Often they lower the quality of the movie, or the more recent trend is to have several in movies of little value just to capture the hip-hop/rap fans money. There are some exceptions, but they are rare. My hope would be that Xhibit is an exception, which I doubt, or that his role is merely a minor supporting one. We shall see.
This is what I think, what do you think?
From the loss of a bodyguard in a shooting incident, to alleged assault due to an autograph request, to now an alleged assault for spitting on a car is a sad progression. Why is there such violence that seems to be attached to rap music and its top performers? And why is it that in almost each case of violence, the cause is a minor incident. Actors sports athletes, and musicians of other genres are no saints either yet we do not see such rampant and indiscriminant violence as found in rap. Then again when it’s considered that this is the one genre that seeks out and encourages former and current criminals to be its top entertainers, one shouldn’t be overly surprised by the results.
One a different thought, Snakes on a Plane has finally arrived in theaters. Mr. Samuel Jackson has another number 1 to his credit. For as much as critics have spoken about this movie, there is one fact to be remembered it hit #1. This was never expected to be a stellar movie. There was no thought that this $30 million dollar film was an Oscar contender. But it has been successful in capturing over half its cost to make in its first weekend. Odds are good that it will make its money long before it reaches cable or DVD. [To make money a movie needs to clear between 2-3x its cost.] I like Mr. Jackson, and his choices in roles appeal to fans of many genres. When critics have downplayed the revenue of this film they seem to nullify, to some degree, the fact that Mr. Jackson is so well regarded by fans that even a movie that is not Oscar-worthy has gotten the type of hype seen in few $100 million+ movies. Now if that isn’t star power in action I’d love the critics to mention what is.
Speaking of movies, there are several that will be coming out soon that seem of interest to me. Mr. Dwayne Johnson, otherwise known as The Rock, has a new film called Gridiron Gang. This is a based on a true story. It’s the story of kids that has fallen into the wrong path, imprisoned and needing to find a better way. Mr. Johnson uses football to inspire them and show these kids that there is a better way, and that their self-respect can only be lost if they allow it to be. This looks like it can be a good film, something that the young Black African Americans it targets can look at and find inspiration from.
Mr. Johnson, The Rock, has made a decent transition to film roles. Not the greatest actor, he has made his roles believable, and he has picked his roles well. This is perhaps the most dramatic role for him so far, and the most inspirational. If I am understanding the television commercials well. Given that I hope the film does well. I’m glad that Mr. Johnson is taking the chance to expand is range as an actor, especially to provide a positive image to at risk youth.
It’s interesting to note that in an effort to target more of the youth, specifically Black African Americans, Xhibit is also in this movie. I do not recall other movies he has been in, thus I fear what effect he may have on this film. As you may recall I have a poor opinion of Rappers that have little or no experience in acting garnering large roles in movies. Often they lower the quality of the movie, or the more recent trend is to have several in movies of little value just to capture the hip-hop/rap fans money. There are some exceptions, but they are rare. My hope would be that Xhibit is an exception, which I doubt, or that his role is merely a minor supporting one. We shall see.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Saturday, August 19, 2006
pig hugging while country music takes a loss
So after a week away, I look for what is news out there. What do I find? Well something that calls itself art. Performance art is a unique experience. Something that leaves each viewer with a different take on what was observed. Such art can be unsettling at times, revealing aspects of humanity, culture and ourselves that may not have been expected. That is at the highest levels of the art.
On the other hand is art such as Inthewrongplaceness. This performance art piece features a woman draped upon a dead pig. This can be observed by each viewer for up to 10 minutes. Why I have no idea. How this might be considered art I don’t understand. I’m no expert at art or artistic expression so perhaps I just don’t get it. I’m a bohemian. Still it makes no sense to me.
The artist describes the experience as “left me with an undercurrent of pigginess, unexpected fantasies of mergence and interspecies metamorphoses began to flicker into my consciousness.” I’m not sure what that bloody well means. Perhaps if I were British it would make more sense, since that is where the exhibit is taking place. Even so, what in the world is pigginess? And how warped is it to feel like you are merging with an animal, especially one that is dead? It unnerves me, and not for some fanatical PETA reason.
As you might imagine the people from PETA are threatening to protest, on the basis of animal cruelty. Now I hope they do realize that this is a DEAD pig, there is no way to be cruel to it. If it were alive I could sympathize a bit, but who ever said a subtlety like death matters to this fur hating, vegan group. [I don’t mind vegans, and I don’t mean to say they are fanatics nor PETA members. I would imagine that any group so extreme about the rights of animals would be vegan though. And my problem with PETA is that there are far too many children in the world, starving and living in harsh conditions for me to be overly concerned about a dead pig.]
Now if slow dancing with a pork chop isn’t unsettling enough, this news may do it. It seems that news of the resurgence of country music may be misplaced. The last country music station in L.A. has just shut down. I’m sure millions are crying, though from joy or grief I can’t say. I do wonder where this proposed surge in country music is happening at though. In NYC there was a station for about 6 months back around ‘90 or so. There is one station I’m aware of in the Binghamton area, but none in any city that I’ve been to (not counting L.A.’s in the past). Who is actually listening to the genre? It must be someone since there is a CMT (think MTV for country, with more actual music videos) as well as an awards show. I guess if you are in need of a fix in L.A. for Merle Haggard and Patsy Cline you just need to go to CMT.
Of course if my choice is country music or watching someone hug bacon en masse I’ll go with a nice nap. [Though I will say that Patsy Cline is very good]
This is what I think, what do you think?
On the other hand is art such as Inthewrongplaceness. This performance art piece features a woman draped upon a dead pig. This can be observed by each viewer for up to 10 minutes. Why I have no idea. How this might be considered art I don’t understand. I’m no expert at art or artistic expression so perhaps I just don’t get it. I’m a bohemian. Still it makes no sense to me.
The artist describes the experience as “left me with an undercurrent of pigginess, unexpected fantasies of mergence and interspecies metamorphoses began to flicker into my consciousness.” I’m not sure what that bloody well means. Perhaps if I were British it would make more sense, since that is where the exhibit is taking place. Even so, what in the world is pigginess? And how warped is it to feel like you are merging with an animal, especially one that is dead? It unnerves me, and not for some fanatical PETA reason.
As you might imagine the people from PETA are threatening to protest, on the basis of animal cruelty. Now I hope they do realize that this is a DEAD pig, there is no way to be cruel to it. If it were alive I could sympathize a bit, but who ever said a subtlety like death matters to this fur hating, vegan group. [I don’t mind vegans, and I don’t mean to say they are fanatics nor PETA members. I would imagine that any group so extreme about the rights of animals would be vegan though. And my problem with PETA is that there are far too many children in the world, starving and living in harsh conditions for me to be overly concerned about a dead pig.]
Now if slow dancing with a pork chop isn’t unsettling enough, this news may do it. It seems that news of the resurgence of country music may be misplaced. The last country music station in L.A. has just shut down. I’m sure millions are crying, though from joy or grief I can’t say. I do wonder where this proposed surge in country music is happening at though. In NYC there was a station for about 6 months back around ‘90 or so. There is one station I’m aware of in the Binghamton area, but none in any city that I’ve been to (not counting L.A.’s in the past). Who is actually listening to the genre? It must be someone since there is a CMT (think MTV for country, with more actual music videos) as well as an awards show. I guess if you are in need of a fix in L.A. for Merle Haggard and Patsy Cline you just need to go to CMT.
Of course if my choice is country music or watching someone hug bacon en masse I’ll go with a nice nap. [Though I will say that Patsy Cline is very good]
This is what I think, what do you think?
Friday, August 18, 2006
Quick look it's Mel Gibson getting a pass
I’m sure some have noticed that I haven’t posted in a while. I’ve been on business trips but they have given me a few things to speak on. One thing I’ve noticed are ads for the new movie the Illusionist. It stars Mr. Ed Norton as a magician, and Ms. Jessica Beil as his love interest. Ms. Beil’s character is supposed to be a modern woman in a past time, as the movie is a period piece. While that is a detraction to me, one thing I’ve heard about the movie is that all the tricks are not CGI effects. Mr. David Blaine was one of the specialists used to help the movie effects happen, but every trick is a trick that was done in and around 1858. Considering what the television commercials show, I find that quite interesting.
It amazes me what the magicians of that time were capable of. But don’t think the magicians guild gave away anything. It seems that only the absolute essential information was given and not a single trick more. If there is any group that can hold a secret it’s the magicians guild. With what Mr. Blaine can do, and what Hodinni did before him, I can only wonder what secrets they all know.
On a different matter, I was recently at a comedy show in the Bronx. Hosted by Jay, a reknown comedian in his own right, the show at Café Lou’s is a solid draw. The show highlights new comedians and seasoned professionals. Some of the professionals have been seen on Def Jam, BET, and a few other tours and national programs. I wish I had a bit of audio to showcase when Jay, the host, was discussing the difference between being in Harlem and Manhattan. That alone was worth the time.
By the way, did anyone notice that Mr. Mel Gibson was given 3 years probation? Not a big story, I didn’t notice it in yahoo news and barely saw it on a news program last night. As I expected all the drama over Mr. Gibson’s comments took attention away from his actual charges, barely the kind that one would expect for his actions. And of course as he has recovered from that news, and focus in the world and entertainment has moved on to other items, Mr. Gibson quietly gets probation. I still do not understand why actors get off so easily, especially for things I’d be locked away for a long time for. As I recall Mr. Gibson is a republican, like myself, and is a supporter of strong laws and strict enforcement. Funny how he has taken this windfall so well.
More thoughts once I get back home.
It amazes me what the magicians of that time were capable of. But don’t think the magicians guild gave away anything. It seems that only the absolute essential information was given and not a single trick more. If there is any group that can hold a secret it’s the magicians guild. With what Mr. Blaine can do, and what Hodinni did before him, I can only wonder what secrets they all know.
On a different matter, I was recently at a comedy show in the Bronx. Hosted by Jay, a reknown comedian in his own right, the show at Café Lou’s is a solid draw. The show highlights new comedians and seasoned professionals. Some of the professionals have been seen on Def Jam, BET, and a few other tours and national programs. I wish I had a bit of audio to showcase when Jay, the host, was discussing the difference between being in Harlem and Manhattan. That alone was worth the time.
By the way, did anyone notice that Mr. Mel Gibson was given 3 years probation? Not a big story, I didn’t notice it in yahoo news and barely saw it on a news program last night. As I expected all the drama over Mr. Gibson’s comments took attention away from his actual charges, barely the kind that one would expect for his actions. And of course as he has recovered from that news, and focus in the world and entertainment has moved on to other items, Mr. Gibson quietly gets probation. I still do not understand why actors get off so easily, especially for things I’d be locked away for a long time for. As I recall Mr. Gibson is a republican, like myself, and is a supporter of strong laws and strict enforcement. Funny how he has taken this windfall so well.
More thoughts once I get back home.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Public service announcement - get real
I was just watching television (more a background noise thing) and a PSA [public service announcement] came on. It got me thinking. Now thankfully the PSA’s on drugs are far better than the original ‘Just say no’ commercials with Mrs. Nancy Regan. Those were a joke, providing humor and no reason to stop anything. I mean no offense to Mrs. Reagan but her commercials were vastly out of touch with anyone I knew growing up and everyone I spoke to at the time agreed. They were almost as funny as the ‘Where’s the beef’ and ‘I’ve fallen and can’t get up’ commercials. If you’re not a thirty-something you have no idea what I mean, but they were funny.
The Regan commercials were quickly replaced by the ever famous ‘This is your brain on drugs’ television spots. While better, they tended to make people more hungry than anything else. Today we have PSA’s that show unmotivated, deflated, truncated kids or a group of losers sitting on a couch as others do activities around them. Probably the best group of these style commercials. Of course they are lame.
In every case of these commercials, that I can recall having seen, the target audience is white teenagers. I do not recall one public service announcement that has or featured Black African American, Hispanic or any other minority teenagers. Not one, if anyone can recall them please let me know. So to protect the very people they are trying to inform the television commercials are sanitized and tame. There is just the slightest glimmer of reality, and only for those who are white. It seems to say that anyone else can take whatever because it doesn’t matter. Unless they are counting rap music videos as PSA’s.
If there really is to be something that can deter kids from doing drugs how about a bit of reality. Pay a crackhead $20 and get photos from when they were still in school, then show them walking the street, begging for cash (or offering to trade for it), and then as/after they get their fix. Show a few ex-All Americans that are on the nod. Maybe a kid on X or a speedball O.D.ing that just happens to be in their teens. And to really make it stick in their heads, don’t show just inner city kids. It’s not that hard to find strung out rich kids, nor a kid jonesin’ in middle of the country tiny town USA. Now that might have an impact.
Just for the hell of it, why not show a few Black African American kids, maybe a before photo and an after (say at their funeral after being shot dead during a drug deal) or an Asian kid on crystal meth. Maybe a touch of reality for the kids that need it, the ones in the inner city. Not that there are more kids on drugs in the major cities of this nation [There are only 5 that match that description to me, the others are cities, places like Binghamton are just a big town.] but they have more access, shorter lifespans, higher incidence of violence and more motivation to be involved with drugs. I mean movies, music videos and songs, and preconceived notions of the general public all push for that.
Hell maybe something like showing an 18 yr old, talking about his friends he started elementary school with. Cut to a picture of his class and start putting X’s across all the kids that died due to drugs. If you did that to my elementary class about half would have been dead by 21. Another ¼ would have been in jail at least once. That doesn’t include the kids I knew from junior high school or high school. Virtually all were due to drug related crimes or cause. Now that is a motivation not to do drugs.
But that of course might offend some people. You know the ones that don’t talk to their kids about drugs, sex or the real world. The ones that scream how horrible the world has become, but don’t want to actively do things to improve it. Or so it seems to me.
This is what I think, what do you think?
The Regan commercials were quickly replaced by the ever famous ‘This is your brain on drugs’ television spots. While better, they tended to make people more hungry than anything else. Today we have PSA’s that show unmotivated, deflated, truncated kids or a group of losers sitting on a couch as others do activities around them. Probably the best group of these style commercials. Of course they are lame.
In every case of these commercials, that I can recall having seen, the target audience is white teenagers. I do not recall one public service announcement that has or featured Black African American, Hispanic or any other minority teenagers. Not one, if anyone can recall them please let me know. So to protect the very people they are trying to inform the television commercials are sanitized and tame. There is just the slightest glimmer of reality, and only for those who are white. It seems to say that anyone else can take whatever because it doesn’t matter. Unless they are counting rap music videos as PSA’s.
If there really is to be something that can deter kids from doing drugs how about a bit of reality. Pay a crackhead $20 and get photos from when they were still in school, then show them walking the street, begging for cash (or offering to trade for it), and then as/after they get their fix. Show a few ex-All Americans that are on the nod. Maybe a kid on X or a speedball O.D.ing that just happens to be in their teens. And to really make it stick in their heads, don’t show just inner city kids. It’s not that hard to find strung out rich kids, nor a kid jonesin’ in middle of the country tiny town USA. Now that might have an impact.
Just for the hell of it, why not show a few Black African American kids, maybe a before photo and an after (say at their funeral after being shot dead during a drug deal) or an Asian kid on crystal meth. Maybe a touch of reality for the kids that need it, the ones in the inner city. Not that there are more kids on drugs in the major cities of this nation [There are only 5 that match that description to me, the others are cities, places like Binghamton are just a big town.] but they have more access, shorter lifespans, higher incidence of violence and more motivation to be involved with drugs. I mean movies, music videos and songs, and preconceived notions of the general public all push for that.
Hell maybe something like showing an 18 yr old, talking about his friends he started elementary school with. Cut to a picture of his class and start putting X’s across all the kids that died due to drugs. If you did that to my elementary class about half would have been dead by 21. Another ¼ would have been in jail at least once. That doesn’t include the kids I knew from junior high school or high school. Virtually all were due to drug related crimes or cause. Now that is a motivation not to do drugs.
But that of course might offend some people. You know the ones that don’t talk to their kids about drugs, sex or the real world. The ones that scream how horrible the world has become, but don’t want to actively do things to improve it. Or so it seems to me.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Forest Whitaker, Dundee and blue Muppets
A few other unusual items are cropping up today as attention is focused on the conflict in the Middle East and the attempted attack on airlines in England and US airlines. One thing that is of interest happened in Thailand; a nation known for many things, not the least of which is sex. They are also known for 500,000 of its population being infected with HIV/AIDS. So in a nation with such a conflict, the introduction of a new condom would seem to be of no interest. That would be true except the brand name is Tom Dundee, which translates into something akin to Tom Good Penetration. While somewhat appropriate for a condom, the name offended the Culture Ministry and has been banned. It seems that the name is felt to be enticing to the youth and could cause early sexual activity. Of the many things mentioned about Bangkok a common item is the young prostitutes. For decades it has been something spoken about in hushed breathes or in television specials. Somehow I find it difficult to connect the Cultural Ministry’s fears with the reputed sex trade industry that may exist. If anything a humorous condom that incites use if far better than no protection that spreads HIV/AIDS further. But that is me placing my sensibilities on Thailand, which can be unfair. Still if it saves a few lives, stops a few unwanted pregnancies does a provocative name really matter?
On a less explicit level, yet still quite adult, is news that the Muppets are not just for kids anymore. Mr. Brian Henson, son of the Muppets creator Jim Henson, has performances at Edinburgh’s Fringe art festival that are just for the adults. A bit blue and lewd, inspired by improve and the audience it’s a different take than the ones some may have grown up with. I can’t imagine what might occur but I’m sure it would spin the memories of The Muppet’s Show - Fozzy, Gonzo, Ms. Piggy, Kermit et al – on their head. And I can’t say that it isn’t tempting to watch. It’s a new experience, a continuation perhaps of an experience in my youth. Like many things, a new look or perspective from an adult on a situation can be a good experience. Perhaps part of the joke is you wouldn’t expect a blue take on this venue, so a bit of shock is part of the fun. I doubt it could be worse than some comedians, or movies (Little Man comes to mind) that take an innocent subject and turn it on its ear for a laugh. If anyone has seen the performance when it was in Aspen or Hollywood, please let us know what you thought of it.
Moving from the sublime to the sub-human, there is news that Mr. Forest Whitaker will star as the infamous African leader Idi Amin in the movie The Last King of Scotland. Mr. Amin was the President of Uganda through the 70’s. He was also a light heavyweight boxing champion, persecutor of various groups including Christians and possibly a cannibal. He was brutal in his reign and died in exile at the age of 79.
Mr. Whitaker is an exceptional actor and director. He has played support and leading roles in many films (The Crying Game, The Color of Money, Battlefield Earth, Ghost Dog, and his recent performance on the Shield all come to mind at once). This movie will open in London, and I hope to see it here in the U.S. as I don’t recall a bad film or role than Mr. Whitaker has done. Considering the nature of his character, and the fact that it was a real person, I find it intriguing to see how he would play the man.
The film also has a solid cast in Ms. Gillian Anderson (of the X-Files fame) and Mr. James McAvoy, and directed by Mr. Kevin Macdonald. There may be a limited release here but I imagine it will be worth finding.
This is what I think, what do you think?
On a less explicit level, yet still quite adult, is news that the Muppets are not just for kids anymore. Mr. Brian Henson, son of the Muppets creator Jim Henson, has performances at Edinburgh’s Fringe art festival that are just for the adults. A bit blue and lewd, inspired by improve and the audience it’s a different take than the ones some may have grown up with. I can’t imagine what might occur but I’m sure it would spin the memories of The Muppet’s Show - Fozzy, Gonzo, Ms. Piggy, Kermit et al – on their head. And I can’t say that it isn’t tempting to watch. It’s a new experience, a continuation perhaps of an experience in my youth. Like many things, a new look or perspective from an adult on a situation can be a good experience. Perhaps part of the joke is you wouldn’t expect a blue take on this venue, so a bit of shock is part of the fun. I doubt it could be worse than some comedians, or movies (Little Man comes to mind) that take an innocent subject and turn it on its ear for a laugh. If anyone has seen the performance when it was in Aspen or Hollywood, please let us know what you thought of it.
Moving from the sublime to the sub-human, there is news that Mr. Forest Whitaker will star as the infamous African leader Idi Amin in the movie The Last King of Scotland. Mr. Amin was the President of Uganda through the 70’s. He was also a light heavyweight boxing champion, persecutor of various groups including Christians and possibly a cannibal. He was brutal in his reign and died in exile at the age of 79.
Mr. Whitaker is an exceptional actor and director. He has played support and leading roles in many films (The Crying Game, The Color of Money, Battlefield Earth, Ghost Dog, and his recent performance on the Shield all come to mind at once). This movie will open in London, and I hope to see it here in the U.S. as I don’t recall a bad film or role than Mr. Whitaker has done. Considering the nature of his character, and the fact that it was a real person, I find it intriguing to see how he would play the man.
The film also has a solid cast in Ms. Gillian Anderson (of the X-Files fame) and Mr. James McAvoy, and directed by Mr. Kevin Macdonald. There may be a limited release here but I imagine it will be worth finding.
This is what I think, what do you think?
From the odd to the grand, Emmy's to Jay-Z
Well there are odd bits of news and then there are dumb and oddball ones. I mean this bunch of items I ran into caught me off guard. Let me start with probably one of the worst Emmy nominations I’ve ever heard of. Ms. Ellen Burstyn is an Oscar-winning actress, and is known for solid performances. But I cannot imagine that she is so good that 15 seconds of acting rates an Emmy nomination. Much like the Academy Awards, there is no restriction on how long a performance must be to earn a nomination. Of course common sense (which seems more and more like it is uncommon) would dictate that a shorter performance be something highly memorable and defining. It should enhance the movie or television program, and leave an indelible mark on the viewer. As good as some entertainers are I cannot see anyone being able to do the above in 15 seconds. There is barely enough time to see the entertainer let alone make an impression. And who knows what actresses were looked over to provide Ms. Burstyn this honor. She may be good, but does HBO (who submitted this performance for consideration) truly think that 15 seconds is worth it? Then again, since she got the nomination they might be right. Odd I say.
Moving along in this theme is news that yet another couple that opened their lives to the public as newly-weds has filed for divorce. Why do people do this? Is 15 minutes of fame worth the embarrassment? How can anyone share themselves with their ‘one true love’ while sharing their experiences with millions? What kind of intimacy can be formed when Joe Public knows every detail about your daily life and relationship? When you’re being rated on every action for its entertainment value. Would you want to have your life judged for how entertaining the pitfalls and joys you endure are to anyone else? So is it any surprise that Mr. Travis Barker and his wife Shanna Moakler have failed to hold together their union. I’m not saying they didn’t try, or that they don’t love each other. But I will say that placing one’s relationship in such bright lights at such a critical time isn’t very advantageous to long term prosperity. So I’m not shocked, nor do I expect better.
Of course a serious drop in IQ seemed to provide this bit of news. It seems that 4 men decided that jumping in front of cars on a highway was something that needed to be taped and spread on the internet. Not even 15 minutes of fame and they are willing to risk their lives and those of others. I’ve only thought that idiocy like this occurred on shows like Jackass and such. How such mindless and dangerous crap is considered entertaining by anyone escapes my reasoning. Thankfully this happened in Spain and was done by Frenchmen. Of course similar idiocy has occurred in England and of course on MTV here in the USA. Hopefully this is merely a fad, and a short-lived one at best. Watching fools doing foolish acts is not funny to me, just mindless and dumb.
But something meaningful did happen today. Mr. Shawn Carter, otherwise known as Jay-Z, announced his work with the United Nations to highlight the lack of fresh water many suffer throughout the world. Truly a worthy cause and something that I am happy to hear of. I may not be a fan of hip-hop or rap as it exists today, but when entertainers can use their fame to highlight causes that help I’m always willing to acknowledge their contributions. And Mr. Carter is not just talking about the 1.1 billion without drinkable water; he is helping to change the figure. While the 1000 combination water pumps and merry-go-round are just the tip of the iceberg, it is an act to create a better world. It is an action and hopefully it can get others to act on this as well. It’s not often that an entertainer gets to work directly with the UN on something that directly helps people throughout the world, nor that they get to have the U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan endorse publicly their actions. I admit that I am impressed and I hope that this effort results in awareness and improved conditions of those currently without fresh water.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Moving along in this theme is news that yet another couple that opened their lives to the public as newly-weds has filed for divorce. Why do people do this? Is 15 minutes of fame worth the embarrassment? How can anyone share themselves with their ‘one true love’ while sharing their experiences with millions? What kind of intimacy can be formed when Joe Public knows every detail about your daily life and relationship? When you’re being rated on every action for its entertainment value. Would you want to have your life judged for how entertaining the pitfalls and joys you endure are to anyone else? So is it any surprise that Mr. Travis Barker and his wife Shanna Moakler have failed to hold together their union. I’m not saying they didn’t try, or that they don’t love each other. But I will say that placing one’s relationship in such bright lights at such a critical time isn’t very advantageous to long term prosperity. So I’m not shocked, nor do I expect better.
Of course a serious drop in IQ seemed to provide this bit of news. It seems that 4 men decided that jumping in front of cars on a highway was something that needed to be taped and spread on the internet. Not even 15 minutes of fame and they are willing to risk their lives and those of others. I’ve only thought that idiocy like this occurred on shows like Jackass and such. How such mindless and dangerous crap is considered entertaining by anyone escapes my reasoning. Thankfully this happened in Spain and was done by Frenchmen. Of course similar idiocy has occurred in England and of course on MTV here in the USA. Hopefully this is merely a fad, and a short-lived one at best. Watching fools doing foolish acts is not funny to me, just mindless and dumb.
But something meaningful did happen today. Mr. Shawn Carter, otherwise known as Jay-Z, announced his work with the United Nations to highlight the lack of fresh water many suffer throughout the world. Truly a worthy cause and something that I am happy to hear of. I may not be a fan of hip-hop or rap as it exists today, but when entertainers can use their fame to highlight causes that help I’m always willing to acknowledge their contributions. And Mr. Carter is not just talking about the 1.1 billion without drinkable water; he is helping to change the figure. While the 1000 combination water pumps and merry-go-round are just the tip of the iceberg, it is an act to create a better world. It is an action and hopefully it can get others to act on this as well. It’s not often that an entertainer gets to work directly with the UN on something that directly helps people throughout the world, nor that they get to have the U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan endorse publicly their actions. I admit that I am impressed and I hope that this effort results in awareness and improved conditions of those currently without fresh water.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Monday, August 07, 2006
Interview with author RM Johnson
I recently reviewed the new book Do You Take This Woman by author RM Johnson. In addition to the review of the book I also had the opportunity Mr. Johnson. The interview covered a range of questions on various topics that I feel would be of interest to those who have read his 7 books, and to those who have not. Before I go further I would like to thank Mr. RM Johnson, Ms. Nicole De Jackmo, and Simon & Schuster for both the review and the interview.
The following is the interview, it is my first and I hope you enjoy it.
Michael Vass: For those of my readers not familiar with your writing, how would you describe it?
Mr. RM Johnson: My writing is to the point, socially conscious, and respectable. I try to paint us a real people, not stereotypes of ourselves. My books are not saturated with overdone, insignificant sex scenes for the sake of selling a book. I write stories that people can relate to, that they will enjoy, learn from, and hopefully ponder, long after the cover has been closed.
Michael Vass: How would you compare this book to your other books?
Mr. RM Johnson: This is a much faster paced book. There’s not as much narrative, or description in this book than my last novel, and not nearly as much as my first five. The book is relationship based, and is not steeped in as much social commentary. This novel is more about entertainment and intrigue, than education or enlightenment. Not to say it isn’t as enjoyable or satisfying as my previous works, it’s just different in those respects.
Michael Vass: What was your inspiration for the book Do You Take This Woman?
Mr. RM Johnson: This was first an idea for a film script. It was actually going to be a comedy, but I decided it would be of more use to me as a novel. As I ventured through the writing process, many things about the story changed, resulting in what’s in print today—a tragedy.
Michael Vass: In your opinion are African American women today more like Carla, Me’Shell, or something different?
Mr. RM Johnson: African American women are African American women. There ain’t no other woman like her in the world. Take that the way you like, good or bad, and I think there’s a little of both in there, but I love them to death. Wouldn’t trade them for a pot of gold, even if I thought I could get it.
Michael Vass: What were your inspirations growing up?
Mr. RM Johnson: As a child I wanted to be a commercial artist. After graduating from high school, I believed I would be a filmmaker. After my five years in the military, and one semester of college, I knew I would become a novelist. Richard Wright’s BLACK BOY was the book that did it for me. It’s something that everyone should read, regardless of age, race, or gender.
Michael Vass: Are you working on another book, and if so what could you tell us about it?
Mr. RM Johnson: Currently, I’m working on THE MILLION DOLLAR DECEPTION. This is the sequel to THE MILLION DOLLAR DIVORCE. Other than that, all I can say is that all the questions from the first book will be answered, and new questions will definitely arise at the end of the new one.
Michael Vass: What are your thoughts on the current Black culture in the U.S.?
Mr. RM Johnson: I’m sorry, but I would have to write another entire book to answer that question.
Michael Vass: What would you suggest to future writers?
Mr. RM Johnson: Believe in yourself. Write every day. Write what it is you want to write, but consider the market. Writers can not be naive enough to think that just because they are skillful, people will dig in their pockets and support them. Selling a book is just like selling anything else. You must give the reader/consumer a reason to want it. If a writer’s particular target market, let’s say black folks between the ages of 18-32 don’t like period pieces, that writer should understand that if he wants to sell a number of copies, maybe he should not write the story that he planned on setting in the year 1921. I’m not saying that selling copies should be the only thing considered when writing a novel, but it is something that should be thought about along with every other element of writing that book.
Michael Vass: What challenges have you overcome to reach the success you have today?
Mr. RM Johnson: Many, many challenges. I tell people, you don’t just go to college, get a degree in novel writing, step out and become a successful novelist. There is no tried and true formula. There’s a lot of sacrifice involved. Many of my friends who are authors, major authors have left jobs to devote all their efforts to writing novels. And this was before they were even making much money from their books. I did the same thing. There’s no sure thing about this profession, especially early on. You write the best book you can, promote it, and hope people will support you.
One of the challenges I’ve faced was to continue to call myself a writer when I was at a very low point in my career. I pretty much had nothing, and I mean NOTHING. But as a opposed to finding a job, and giving up on my dreams of becoming a successful novelist, I only took on the type of work that would allow me to continue writing. I entered a masters program in creative writing, telling myself that I would teach writing and earn money that way, as opposed to selling insurance, or washing windows, something that would take me away from what I loved. Sometimes the most challenging thing is to simply endure.
Michael Vass: What one thing would you like my readers and the public to know?
Mr. RM Johnson: As everyone changes, I too, change. I know my readers have noticed, because on the rare occasion I chose to read a passage from one of my past novels, I can see how my writing has evolved. A long time ago, after my first book, I used to tell readers every one of my books will not be the same. Writing is a creative process. Producing the same book over and over again, be it with similar characters, or subject matter, even writing style, would be more like manufacturing. With each book, I grow, as well as with each experience in life. I will write a variety of different books over the course of my career, but will remain constant is the effort and enthusiasm I put into those books to try to make them as entertaining and fulfilling to my readers as possible. Stick with me. You won’t be disappointed.
I want to note that all links found in the interview are made by Mr. Michael Vass. The intention for these links is to provide information to the reader. There is no other intention implied or made. If any is drawn then it is the fault of Mr. Vass alone.
The following is the interview, it is my first and I hope you enjoy it.
Michael Vass: For those of my readers not familiar with your writing, how would you describe it?
Mr. RM Johnson: My writing is to the point, socially conscious, and respectable. I try to paint us a real people, not stereotypes of ourselves. My books are not saturated with overdone, insignificant sex scenes for the sake of selling a book. I write stories that people can relate to, that they will enjoy, learn from, and hopefully ponder, long after the cover has been closed.
Michael Vass: How would you compare this book to your other books?
Mr. RM Johnson: This is a much faster paced book. There’s not as much narrative, or description in this book than my last novel, and not nearly as much as my first five. The book is relationship based, and is not steeped in as much social commentary. This novel is more about entertainment and intrigue, than education or enlightenment. Not to say it isn’t as enjoyable or satisfying as my previous works, it’s just different in those respects.
Michael Vass: What was your inspiration for the book Do You Take This Woman?
Mr. RM Johnson: This was first an idea for a film script. It was actually going to be a comedy, but I decided it would be of more use to me as a novel. As I ventured through the writing process, many things about the story changed, resulting in what’s in print today—a tragedy.
Michael Vass: In your opinion are African American women today more like Carla, Me’Shell, or something different?
Mr. RM Johnson: African American women are African American women. There ain’t no other woman like her in the world. Take that the way you like, good or bad, and I think there’s a little of both in there, but I love them to death. Wouldn’t trade them for a pot of gold, even if I thought I could get it.
Michael Vass: What were your inspirations growing up?
Mr. RM Johnson: As a child I wanted to be a commercial artist. After graduating from high school, I believed I would be a filmmaker. After my five years in the military, and one semester of college, I knew I would become a novelist. Richard Wright’s BLACK BOY was the book that did it for me. It’s something that everyone should read, regardless of age, race, or gender.
Michael Vass: Are you working on another book, and if so what could you tell us about it?
Mr. RM Johnson: Currently, I’m working on THE MILLION DOLLAR DECEPTION. This is the sequel to THE MILLION DOLLAR DIVORCE. Other than that, all I can say is that all the questions from the first book will be answered, and new questions will definitely arise at the end of the new one.
Michael Vass: What are your thoughts on the current Black culture in the U.S.?
Mr. RM Johnson: I’m sorry, but I would have to write another entire book to answer that question.
Michael Vass: What would you suggest to future writers?
Mr. RM Johnson: Believe in yourself. Write every day. Write what it is you want to write, but consider the market. Writers can not be naive enough to think that just because they are skillful, people will dig in their pockets and support them. Selling a book is just like selling anything else. You must give the reader/consumer a reason to want it. If a writer’s particular target market, let’s say black folks between the ages of 18-32 don’t like period pieces, that writer should understand that if he wants to sell a number of copies, maybe he should not write the story that he planned on setting in the year 1921. I’m not saying that selling copies should be the only thing considered when writing a novel, but it is something that should be thought about along with every other element of writing that book.
Michael Vass: What challenges have you overcome to reach the success you have today?
Mr. RM Johnson: Many, many challenges. I tell people, you don’t just go to college, get a degree in novel writing, step out and become a successful novelist. There is no tried and true formula. There’s a lot of sacrifice involved. Many of my friends who are authors, major authors have left jobs to devote all their efforts to writing novels. And this was before they were even making much money from their books. I did the same thing. There’s no sure thing about this profession, especially early on. You write the best book you can, promote it, and hope people will support you.
One of the challenges I’ve faced was to continue to call myself a writer when I was at a very low point in my career. I pretty much had nothing, and I mean NOTHING. But as a opposed to finding a job, and giving up on my dreams of becoming a successful novelist, I only took on the type of work that would allow me to continue writing. I entered a masters program in creative writing, telling myself that I would teach writing and earn money that way, as opposed to selling insurance, or washing windows, something that would take me away from what I loved. Sometimes the most challenging thing is to simply endure.
Michael Vass: What one thing would you like my readers and the public to know?
Mr. RM Johnson: As everyone changes, I too, change. I know my readers have noticed, because on the rare occasion I chose to read a passage from one of my past novels, I can see how my writing has evolved. A long time ago, after my first book, I used to tell readers every one of my books will not be the same. Writing is a creative process. Producing the same book over and over again, be it with similar characters, or subject matter, even writing style, would be more like manufacturing. With each book, I grow, as well as with each experience in life. I will write a variety of different books over the course of my career, but will remain constant is the effort and enthusiasm I put into those books to try to make them as entertaining and fulfilling to my readers as possible. Stick with me. You won’t be disappointed.
I want to note that all links found in the interview are made by Mr. Michael Vass. The intention for these links is to provide information to the reader. There is no other intention implied or made. If any is drawn then it is the fault of Mr. Vass alone.
Sunday, August 06, 2006
About cowboys baseball and knowledge
I want to comment on the column by Ms. Lois Hatton. I agree that the importance of the Black cowboy has dropped significantly over the years. The term itself, cowboy, is a direct reference to Black African Americans that dealt with cattle. As time has passed the term has been usurped to become heroes of the Old West, Mr. John Wayne being a popular symbol. Mr. Nat Love is not a familiar name to me, nor is Mr. Bill Pickett. Whether that is because I’m from the city and not into rodeos or because of the usurping of the name and image I cannot say.
Given that, I do not believe that Mr. Satchel Paige or Mr. Jackie Robinson will fade from the minds of fans of baseball. Unlike the many memorable athletes and performers that have been Black African American, those of baseball have movies and books and most importantly acknowledgement keeping their memories alive. Black African American athletes of the last century and today enjoy ‘the light of day’ so to speak. In all major American sports we see African Americans players without censure. Unlike the past segregation and ignorance hid their actions or involvement, today there is open support for players and entertainers.
Without regard for the increase of international sports players in American major leagues, African Americans continue to be involved and integral to sports. And their part in the performance of teams, or individual competitions, is actively discussed. History neglected the entertainers of the past and without discussion or acknowledgement the collective memory forgets. I do not see that as possible today, especially not because players from other nations are involved.
More importantly I think the fact that sports are considered so vital to success in young Black African Americans is a problem. Similar to dreams of becoming a mega-star in music, sports is a dream of the inner-city youth. While attainable, for 1 in maybe 50,000 or less, it is unrealistic. Many today consider college as a means to have their athletic prowess recognized. While that is fine, education and academic achievement is secondary at best. I don’t think that fewer professional baseball players are a crisis or the potential first step in losing that past. I feel that fewer Black African American youth graduating college is. Fewer making it to upper management positions and a stalling of those reaching CEO positions are a crisis. And the apparent apathy of the youth about this is disconcerting.
Sports, music, acting and other forms of entertainment are important. It has been said that the loss of growth in the arts is the first step in the decline of empires. Of course the loss of the intelligencia signals the decline of any people. Of the 2 I find the latter most important. New baseball fields are a good idea, as are most activities that keep kids active and away from drugs. A better idea is anything that supports and reinforces the importance of education. I feel that those that understand more value history and achievements of the past more highly. Those individuals more actively strive to keep the memories alive and in the collective mind. And that the proper respect and acknowledgement is provided to those memories.
New fields and other such toys may keep the game current and popular, but it doesn’t necessarily give appreciation of the past. That is learned. That comes from knowledge. Ask most kids today who Buffalo Bill was, and you may get told that he was a character from a movie – The Silence of the Lambs. Ask what was Mr. Muhammad Ali’s birth name and you may get quizzical looks. Ask who was the first Black African American basketball player, or when the NBA got integrated and see if you get an answer. The questions of how many are in Hockey, or have been in its history, may get a laugh and the incorrect comment of 0. If there is no knowledge, does it matter if there are new toys?
This is what I think, what do you think?
Oh, keep an eye out for an interview with RM Johnson, author of Do You Take This Woman?
Given that, I do not believe that Mr. Satchel Paige or Mr. Jackie Robinson will fade from the minds of fans of baseball. Unlike the many memorable athletes and performers that have been Black African American, those of baseball have movies and books and most importantly acknowledgement keeping their memories alive. Black African American athletes of the last century and today enjoy ‘the light of day’ so to speak. In all major American sports we see African Americans players without censure. Unlike the past segregation and ignorance hid their actions or involvement, today there is open support for players and entertainers.
Without regard for the increase of international sports players in American major leagues, African Americans continue to be involved and integral to sports. And their part in the performance of teams, or individual competitions, is actively discussed. History neglected the entertainers of the past and without discussion or acknowledgement the collective memory forgets. I do not see that as possible today, especially not because players from other nations are involved.
More importantly I think the fact that sports are considered so vital to success in young Black African Americans is a problem. Similar to dreams of becoming a mega-star in music, sports is a dream of the inner-city youth. While attainable, for 1 in maybe 50,000 or less, it is unrealistic. Many today consider college as a means to have their athletic prowess recognized. While that is fine, education and academic achievement is secondary at best. I don’t think that fewer professional baseball players are a crisis or the potential first step in losing that past. I feel that fewer Black African American youth graduating college is. Fewer making it to upper management positions and a stalling of those reaching CEO positions are a crisis. And the apparent apathy of the youth about this is disconcerting.
Sports, music, acting and other forms of entertainment are important. It has been said that the loss of growth in the arts is the first step in the decline of empires. Of course the loss of the intelligencia signals the decline of any people. Of the 2 I find the latter most important. New baseball fields are a good idea, as are most activities that keep kids active and away from drugs. A better idea is anything that supports and reinforces the importance of education. I feel that those that understand more value history and achievements of the past more highly. Those individuals more actively strive to keep the memories alive and in the collective mind. And that the proper respect and acknowledgement is provided to those memories.
New fields and other such toys may keep the game current and popular, but it doesn’t necessarily give appreciation of the past. That is learned. That comes from knowledge. Ask most kids today who Buffalo Bill was, and you may get told that he was a character from a movie – The Silence of the Lambs. Ask what was Mr. Muhammad Ali’s birth name and you may get quizzical looks. Ask who was the first Black African American basketball player, or when the NBA got integrated and see if you get an answer. The questions of how many are in Hockey, or have been in its history, may get a laugh and the incorrect comment of 0. If there is no knowledge, does it matter if there are new toys?
This is what I think, what do you think?
Oh, keep an eye out for an interview with RM Johnson, author of Do You Take This Woman?
Danny Glover in Puerto Rico , London gets busy
I always love to discuss when entertainers have a cause and follow that without benefit to themselves. In the past I have commented on various actions by Mr. George Clooney, Mr. Denzel Washington, and others. To that list I now add Mr. Danny Glover.
Mr. Glover has long been known of his activism for various causes. Even his co-starring role in Lethal Weapon 2 highlighted his belief in the fight against Apartheid. [For those too young to know or recall, Apartheid was the legal segregation and oppression advocated by the South African government. In this system, which was in existence for as long as South Africa existed, the minority ruled the majority. In other words a small group of white South Africans ruled over the larger, poorer and restricted black South African people.] Mr. Glover recently was in Puerto Rico helping to provide hotel workers a chance to improve their pay and work conditions. This is only a small part of his work with UNITE HERE. Still his actions can directly help 2,000 people and potentially 8,000 that have no union looking out for them. I’m happy that there are those out there that realize Puerto Rico is not a state and improvements should be made in the quality of life.
Puerto Rico is a commonwealth of the U.S. and not a state. While this provides a higher standard of living than any other Caribbean nation it is not the standard enjoyed here. Many loopholes in corporate law allow for things that never could happen here. I recall many conversations with family have discussed how hormones used on cattle affected the milk and thus the children, causing abnormal growth spurts. So anyone that focuses attention on these discrepancies is looked upon favorably by me.
In far lighter news is Europe’s Masterbate-a-thon. What is it with the Europeans? I mentioned in a previous post the first ever world strip poker tournament and now this. Of course I should mention that this isn’t an original idea, as similar events have been going on for 6 years in San Francisco. The goal of this self-pleasure marathon is to raise funds for research on HIV/AIDS and women’s health.
Funds will be donated for time at it and number of O’s. Who might be judging this and how I can’t imagine. It does rank in the unique events I’ve heard about. And I can only imagine that anyone attending isn’t bashful. I just find it funny that the event will be in London, the home of the historically ‘stiff-upper-lipped’ British. Unlike the more free and liberal San Franciscans, Britons are not known for their care-free actions. Then again they are the ones who gave us Benny Hill and similar programs. If anyone attends, do post and give the voyeurs in us the chance to know if it went well.
On a side note, Happy Birthday to my sister :)
This is what I think, What do you think?
Mr. Glover has long been known of his activism for various causes. Even his co-starring role in Lethal Weapon 2 highlighted his belief in the fight against Apartheid. [For those too young to know or recall, Apartheid was the legal segregation and oppression advocated by the South African government. In this system, which was in existence for as long as South Africa existed, the minority ruled the majority. In other words a small group of white South Africans ruled over the larger, poorer and restricted black South African people.] Mr. Glover recently was in Puerto Rico helping to provide hotel workers a chance to improve their pay and work conditions. This is only a small part of his work with UNITE HERE. Still his actions can directly help 2,000 people and potentially 8,000 that have no union looking out for them. I’m happy that there are those out there that realize Puerto Rico is not a state and improvements should be made in the quality of life.
Puerto Rico is a commonwealth of the U.S. and not a state. While this provides a higher standard of living than any other Caribbean nation it is not the standard enjoyed here. Many loopholes in corporate law allow for things that never could happen here. I recall many conversations with family have discussed how hormones used on cattle affected the milk and thus the children, causing abnormal growth spurts. So anyone that focuses attention on these discrepancies is looked upon favorably by me.
In far lighter news is Europe’s Masterbate-a-thon. What is it with the Europeans? I mentioned in a previous post the first ever world strip poker tournament and now this. Of course I should mention that this isn’t an original idea, as similar events have been going on for 6 years in San Francisco. The goal of this self-pleasure marathon is to raise funds for research on HIV/AIDS and women’s health.
Funds will be donated for time at it and number of O’s. Who might be judging this and how I can’t imagine. It does rank in the unique events I’ve heard about. And I can only imagine that anyone attending isn’t bashful. I just find it funny that the event will be in London, the home of the historically ‘stiff-upper-lipped’ British. Unlike the more free and liberal San Franciscans, Britons are not known for their care-free actions. Then again they are the ones who gave us Benny Hill and similar programs. If anyone attends, do post and give the voyeurs in us the chance to know if it went well.
On a side note, Happy Birthday to my sister :)
This is what I think, What do you think?
Friday, August 04, 2006
Nick Cannon's Boost Mobile ads
So have you seen the new Boost Mobile television ads? Perhaps I’m sensitive, or PC as some have commented but I don’t like the ads. They are catchy, and well done. The focus is Nick [Mr. Nick Cannon if my search was correct], I have no idea who this Black African American male is, who I assume is famous for something. I’m sure the younger readers are familiar with him as that is obviously where the ads are targeted to. And its nice to see ads that target successful Black African Americans especially the ones that are young.
But my enjoyment ends there. The television ads are promoting the features of the phone, in particular the ability to not pick up and yet respond to a caller. Mr. Cannon demonstrates this ability as he is actively trying to cheat on his girlfriend, by trying to pick up another man’s woman while his girlfriend is trying to reach him. That’s a nice message, young men (especially if you are African American) get this phone and you won’t get caught cheating. In fact your girlfriend will think it’s sweet. Nice message indeed.
Another wonderful ad has Mr. Cannon apparently hung-over on his kitchen table. He picks up his head to see 3 women cooking what I assume is breakfast. Everyone is in bathrobes. The implication is at best that it was a very long night of partying, at worst and more likely that it was a long night [I think] of partying and some degree of sexual activity. Before our ‘hero’ can drop his weary head he gets a call, from Grandma. Rather than answer her call, potentially revealing his activities that I would presume would not meet her approval, he sends her a gospel song. His grandmother takes this as a sign of his faith and is pleased as she shares that view with others in her congregation. I say congregation as she appears to be in a church, and that implies that this is happening on a Sunday [based on my guess of the religion being identified]. So if you want to lie to your family, hide your nefarious activities, and profess a strong belief you do not have, this is the phone for you.
I may be overly sensitive, but there are deep meanings in what visual message is given in a commercial. Whether anyone likes the message or agrees with it (besides the executives that green-lighted it) does not change the message. Even if the intention was otherwise it still exists and should be addressed. Boost Mobile has made a strong effort to actively court the hip-hop culture that the youth of today desire. They are directly targeting Black African Americans as a core market segment for their products. And there is nothing wrong with that. To that end they are using a medium that exists already to reach that market, a sound business strategy.
But what does it say when that strategy and the existing medium describe African American males as sexually voracious, undisciplined, non-monogamous, non-religious and liars? To send a message to your girlfriend about your love for her, while trying to pick up another woman is a lie and cruel and non-monogamous. It also reveals a lack of self-control. To hide your less than religious [it doesn’t matter which religion for as far as I am aware none find over-indulgence of anything to be positive] activities from family that is religious, while enforcing the idea that you are equally devout is a lie, blasphemous and rude. There is no other interpretation that I can see. The fact its not nice doesn’t change what was said. The fact that it may not have been the intended or primary message does not rebuke the underlying comments. The device is not at fault, the user is. Just as a gun is not innately deadly, but via the user it can be devastatingly so.
There is no defense for the message within the ads, to me. I don’t care what the other Boost Mobile ads say or convey. These ads I am discussing are not positive and have nothing to do with other series of ads for the product. The product is not the problem, the message is. The fact that execs can say that this not only represents Black African males, but that it is culturally acceptable and correct upsets me. I do not enjoy being told by some executive [or anyone] that my friends, nephews, and I are misogynists (though perhaps the intention was just that we are ‘dogs’). That we are essentially deceptive and that women accept and expect that. My sisters, and nieces deserve better than that kind of man, and have better. I refuse to let this kind of thought pervade their senses in a subliminal manner (the primary thought being the actions surrounding the use of the phone) as anything but wrong.
I do feel strongly on this. A statement is being made broadly about the youth and culture. What that statement means is not the glammed over surface (ie cool phone) but deeper root meaning. I can’t help looking at television, cable, movies and music and seeing more than just the obvious. Life isn’t that simple in my experience. We may wish it was, we may accept the shallow answer, but that does not change what else is happening. Like a river that looks calm, a lot is happening just beneath the surface if you look for it. And if you don’t look for it, it’s still there all the same.
That’s what I think, What do you think?
But my enjoyment ends there. The television ads are promoting the features of the phone, in particular the ability to not pick up and yet respond to a caller. Mr. Cannon demonstrates this ability as he is actively trying to cheat on his girlfriend, by trying to pick up another man’s woman while his girlfriend is trying to reach him. That’s a nice message, young men (especially if you are African American) get this phone and you won’t get caught cheating. In fact your girlfriend will think it’s sweet. Nice message indeed.
Another wonderful ad has Mr. Cannon apparently hung-over on his kitchen table. He picks up his head to see 3 women cooking what I assume is breakfast. Everyone is in bathrobes. The implication is at best that it was a very long night of partying, at worst and more likely that it was a long night [I think] of partying and some degree of sexual activity. Before our ‘hero’ can drop his weary head he gets a call, from Grandma. Rather than answer her call, potentially revealing his activities that I would presume would not meet her approval, he sends her a gospel song. His grandmother takes this as a sign of his faith and is pleased as she shares that view with others in her congregation. I say congregation as she appears to be in a church, and that implies that this is happening on a Sunday [based on my guess of the religion being identified]. So if you want to lie to your family, hide your nefarious activities, and profess a strong belief you do not have, this is the phone for you.
I may be overly sensitive, but there are deep meanings in what visual message is given in a commercial. Whether anyone likes the message or agrees with it (besides the executives that green-lighted it) does not change the message. Even if the intention was otherwise it still exists and should be addressed. Boost Mobile has made a strong effort to actively court the hip-hop culture that the youth of today desire. They are directly targeting Black African Americans as a core market segment for their products. And there is nothing wrong with that. To that end they are using a medium that exists already to reach that market, a sound business strategy.
But what does it say when that strategy and the existing medium describe African American males as sexually voracious, undisciplined, non-monogamous, non-religious and liars? To send a message to your girlfriend about your love for her, while trying to pick up another woman is a lie and cruel and non-monogamous. It also reveals a lack of self-control. To hide your less than religious [it doesn’t matter which religion for as far as I am aware none find over-indulgence of anything to be positive] activities from family that is religious, while enforcing the idea that you are equally devout is a lie, blasphemous and rude. There is no other interpretation that I can see. The fact its not nice doesn’t change what was said. The fact that it may not have been the intended or primary message does not rebuke the underlying comments. The device is not at fault, the user is. Just as a gun is not innately deadly, but via the user it can be devastatingly so.
There is no defense for the message within the ads, to me. I don’t care what the other Boost Mobile ads say or convey. These ads I am discussing are not positive and have nothing to do with other series of ads for the product. The product is not the problem, the message is. The fact that execs can say that this not only represents Black African males, but that it is culturally acceptable and correct upsets me. I do not enjoy being told by some executive [or anyone] that my friends, nephews, and I are misogynists (though perhaps the intention was just that we are ‘dogs’). That we are essentially deceptive and that women accept and expect that. My sisters, and nieces deserve better than that kind of man, and have better. I refuse to let this kind of thought pervade their senses in a subliminal manner (the primary thought being the actions surrounding the use of the phone) as anything but wrong.
I do feel strongly on this. A statement is being made broadly about the youth and culture. What that statement means is not the glammed over surface (ie cool phone) but deeper root meaning. I can’t help looking at television, cable, movies and music and seeing more than just the obvious. Life isn’t that simple in my experience. We may wish it was, we may accept the shallow answer, but that does not change what else is happening. Like a river that looks calm, a lot is happening just beneath the surface if you look for it. And if you don’t look for it, it’s still there all the same.
That’s what I think, What do you think?
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
Mel Gibson, the Joker and how many black actors in a year
Now here is some news that I’m seriously looking forward to. Mr. Christian Bale did a phenomenal job as the early Bruce Wayne in Batman Begins. Where Mr. Michael Keaton hinted at the darker aspects of the dark knight Mr. Bale really brought it to the foreground. Of course Mr. Bale was working on the script inspired by the Dark Knight series of comic books. I, like many, have looked forward to the next movie (an inevitable event considering how much money was made, and the current fad to bring the comic book heroes to the silver screen) and what may take place.
Happily I can say that the Joker will be in the movie. While Mr. Jack Nicholson did a fairly good job of the character, it was not the more gleefully evil character I grew up with. The manic joke of the Joker is the fact that he and Batman are 2 sides of the same twisted person. Driven with passion and determination that could be seen as unhealthy for either of them. This is why they pair off so well. There is an understanding of commonality between them, which is why Batman is desperate to cure the Joker rather than kill him (and no the Joker did not kill Batman’s parents).
This aspect between the character is critical. As is the joke that is the means of the Joker’s killing sprees. So which actor is going to be given this opportunity? Mr. Heath Ledger. Would I have picked him, probably not. And I not sure who I would have picked. But then again I wasn’t sure that Mr. Bale was up to the imposing figure that is Batman. Hopefully the script will be as strong or better than the first movie. And if the writer’s ever get to read this, don’t go killing off the bad guys just because the movie ends. Especially the Joker, he is an arch-nemesis for a reason. [As a side note, if they get around to it, as I recall 2-Face a.k.a. Harvey Dent is a Black African American. Sometimes reading the source material is a good thing for little details like that. Now watch someone correct me, that in the 40's-50's his character was originally white. But I don’t think so]
And it makes me thing of something else. A conversation I was having yesterday. Essentially I asked a question during my conversation that went like this ‘How many Black African American actors/actresses lead major films a year?’ My personal estimate is about 5. I do not count the 5-10 million dollar rapper-wants-to-be-an-actor films. [I find them to be exploitation films, little different than the blaxploitation films of the 70's. Actually the ones in the 70's were better in acting and script.] I mean films starring Mr. Denzel Washington, Mr. Morgan Freeman, Ms. Angela Bassett, Ms. Halle Berry et al. I believe the number in any one year is around 5, but those I was speaking with thought the number to be around 50% or more. I am not joking. When I asked them to name more than 5 films in one year I was told actors names, not movie titles. And even with that several of the actors were in support roles for several of the movies that were thought of. (IE. Mr. Danny Glover was a co-lead in the later Lethal Weapon series, but more support to Mr. Mel Gibson in the first. Or Mr. Samuel Jackson is often placed in a supporting role. While I am happy they are working, and getting good roles, they are not leading) Now I thought about this afterwards and to be fair, any actor in more than 2 major films in a year is rare. But the question remains, if it were 5 years, how many out of how many total films in that time period?
Why did this come up? We were discussing the inequality of Hollywood. How stereotypes still exist and how movie studios still consciously shift movies to exclude minorities even when its unnecessary. And that still today stereotypes are pushed by the mainstream. I mean many Black African American actors are cast as the muscle, and less intelligent characters. African American actresses are routinely cast as sexual objects. And in films of all sorts minorities simply don’t exist. [Maybe I like sci-fi a bit more because there tends to be more of a mix of peoples in this genre more than any other, with the exception of slasher films which require the ‘stupid black kid that gets killed in the early part of the movie’ and the ‘black girl that doesn’t run from an obviously bad situation and dies’.] Well if anyone does know what the percentage is, do let me know.
I did mention Mr. Mel Gibson above, and I want to go back to him for a moment. I notice that there is virtually nothing being said about his crime. It seems completely forgotten as many are lost in his drunken comments. Now he has admitted making the comments, and it is insulting. It is not surprising though. Mr. Gibson has never hidden his ultra-conservative religious beliefs. While I had no idea how deep his convictions went, it does not change his ability. And anyone who is upset, and not believing his recent apology, should simply not see any movies he produces or stars in. The message will get thru if enough feel the same.
While I find the comments to portray a smaller-minded man than I would have expected, the more important thing I’d like to see is his punishment for his crime. I do not want to see the media create a furor that will blow past his actions, giving the courts an opportunity to cast aside his penalty because of pity on his public thrashing. He needs to be educated, and really look at the world. I think some time in jail for verbal assault on the officers, drunk and disorderly, and DUI should be the perfect opportunity to re-think his positions. If it were me in the same situation, or any actor of lesser stature (I think), those are at the least the charges I’d get. They might have added a classification of the verbal assault as a hate crime considering the comments. But somehow I don’t see Mr. Gibson being given those charges. But that’s all I’ll say on that subject.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Happily I can say that the Joker will be in the movie. While Mr. Jack Nicholson did a fairly good job of the character, it was not the more gleefully evil character I grew up with. The manic joke of the Joker is the fact that he and Batman are 2 sides of the same twisted person. Driven with passion and determination that could be seen as unhealthy for either of them. This is why they pair off so well. There is an understanding of commonality between them, which is why Batman is desperate to cure the Joker rather than kill him (and no the Joker did not kill Batman’s parents).
This aspect between the character is critical. As is the joke that is the means of the Joker’s killing sprees. So which actor is going to be given this opportunity? Mr. Heath Ledger. Would I have picked him, probably not. And I not sure who I would have picked. But then again I wasn’t sure that Mr. Bale was up to the imposing figure that is Batman. Hopefully the script will be as strong or better than the first movie. And if the writer’s ever get to read this, don’t go killing off the bad guys just because the movie ends. Especially the Joker, he is an arch-nemesis for a reason. [As a side note, if they get around to it, as I recall 2-Face a.k.a. Harvey Dent is a Black African American. Sometimes reading the source material is a good thing for little details like that. Now watch someone correct me, that in the 40's-50's his character was originally white. But I don’t think so]
And it makes me thing of something else. A conversation I was having yesterday. Essentially I asked a question during my conversation that went like this ‘How many Black African American actors/actresses lead major films a year?’ My personal estimate is about 5. I do not count the 5-10 million dollar rapper-wants-to-be-an-actor films. [I find them to be exploitation films, little different than the blaxploitation films of the 70's. Actually the ones in the 70's were better in acting and script.] I mean films starring Mr. Denzel Washington, Mr. Morgan Freeman, Ms. Angela Bassett, Ms. Halle Berry et al. I believe the number in any one year is around 5, but those I was speaking with thought the number to be around 50% or more. I am not joking. When I asked them to name more than 5 films in one year I was told actors names, not movie titles. And even with that several of the actors were in support roles for several of the movies that were thought of. (IE. Mr. Danny Glover was a co-lead in the later Lethal Weapon series, but more support to Mr. Mel Gibson in the first. Or Mr. Samuel Jackson is often placed in a supporting role. While I am happy they are working, and getting good roles, they are not leading) Now I thought about this afterwards and to be fair, any actor in more than 2 major films in a year is rare. But the question remains, if it were 5 years, how many out of how many total films in that time period?
Why did this come up? We were discussing the inequality of Hollywood. How stereotypes still exist and how movie studios still consciously shift movies to exclude minorities even when its unnecessary. And that still today stereotypes are pushed by the mainstream. I mean many Black African American actors are cast as the muscle, and less intelligent characters. African American actresses are routinely cast as sexual objects. And in films of all sorts minorities simply don’t exist. [Maybe I like sci-fi a bit more because there tends to be more of a mix of peoples in this genre more than any other, with the exception of slasher films which require the ‘stupid black kid that gets killed in the early part of the movie’ and the ‘black girl that doesn’t run from an obviously bad situation and dies’.] Well if anyone does know what the percentage is, do let me know.
I did mention Mr. Mel Gibson above, and I want to go back to him for a moment. I notice that there is virtually nothing being said about his crime. It seems completely forgotten as many are lost in his drunken comments. Now he has admitted making the comments, and it is insulting. It is not surprising though. Mr. Gibson has never hidden his ultra-conservative religious beliefs. While I had no idea how deep his convictions went, it does not change his ability. And anyone who is upset, and not believing his recent apology, should simply not see any movies he produces or stars in. The message will get thru if enough feel the same.
While I find the comments to portray a smaller-minded man than I would have expected, the more important thing I’d like to see is his punishment for his crime. I do not want to see the media create a furor that will blow past his actions, giving the courts an opportunity to cast aside his penalty because of pity on his public thrashing. He needs to be educated, and really look at the world. I think some time in jail for verbal assault on the officers, drunk and disorderly, and DUI should be the perfect opportunity to re-think his positions. If it were me in the same situation, or any actor of lesser stature (I think), those are at the least the charges I’d get. They might have added a classification of the verbal assault as a hate crime considering the comments. But somehow I don’t see Mr. Gibson being given those charges. But that’s all I’ll say on that subject.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
Review of RM Johnson's Do you take this woman?
Before I proceed with my review of the new RM Johnson book, Do You Take This Woman?, I feel the need to mention 2 things. First is that this is not the normal genre of book that I tend to read. As you may have noticed I enjoy Sci-fi, action, adventure and classical books. Examples would be the Bourne series, The Book of Five Rings, The Grifters, and The Sword of Shanara series. The second thing I should mention is this is the first book review I have done. Please forgive me if it seems unorthodox.
Do You Take This Woman? is the 7th book for author RM Johnson. His other books are Dating Game and The Million Dollar Divorce. I have not read these other books. The publisher is Simon and Schuster, and the book will be available in August 2006.
I liked the fact that each character is a successful Black African American. The main male characters Pete and Wayne are doctors with a successful practice. The female leads, Carla and Me’Shell, are equally successful. All are intellectuals with solid communication skills. All the characters feel strongly about what they are doing, whatever their motivation, and the conviction shows in their actions. Above all else this is a story about love. Love of brothers (Pete and Wayne), love of a spouse, love of a significant other, and love of the forbidden. It’s the last love that is central to the plot of the story.
From the start we are taken quickly into the middle of a situation that has gone from bad to worse. As the book progresses we are taken back and given the background on how things reached the point of the start, and then we watch as the dominoes fall. The pace of the book is fast, at times making me wonder when certain events happened in the overall timeline. I did not find the book to be a difficult read. I found myself quickly reaching the middle and then the end. [Of course I am comparing it to reading Homer or The Lord of the Rings, which can be quite difficult to read at times]
The characters are not so much described as evoked. By that I mean that I could feel how they felt far more than how they might look. Though the various sex scenes do give more refinement to the image. And while descriptive, I would say the sex was just a notch above an R rated movie scene and not X rated. While I cannot say that any of the characters looked like anyone I know, I can say they reminded me of aspects of some people. And that is one of the strong points of the characters, they all have flaws that most have had or seen in someone you know.
As I progressed deeper into the story the dominoes that would be set and dropped were not unexpected, but not overly obvious either. The writing conveys the anguish and difficulty several characters go thru before making a decision and then living thru its consequences. And the ending was somewhat of a surprise. The anti-climax was definitely a surprise and lifted my spirit a bit.
The one thing I found I did not like were the extremity of the flaws the characters had. Or perhaps the choices and decision made would be more accurate. While I can understand the motivations of each character in an isolated situation, I couldn’t imagine myself or anyone else going thru all of them. Perhaps I’ve been lucky, but there are several things that Pete and Wayne do that I could not have. Both characters make choices with consequences that I could not see happening. Carla and Me’shell both acquiesce to situations I have never know a Black African American woman to do. But my experiences are limited. Given the limits I will say that most every reader will probably see some event and say ‘I know how that feels’ or ‘I went thru something like that’ or ‘I wouldn’t go there if that happened to me’. Even so there is a soap opera feel to the overall story, which some will enjoy greatly.
In conclusion, Do You Take This Woman? is a decent book. If you are a fan of the previous RM Johnson books, I expect you will enjoy this. If you are a fan of soap operas and romantic tragedies this is in you line. If you want to look at your relationship and feel better this will do it. I found the book to be fair. And I am sure that those who like this genre more than I will find it worth the purchase. I think fans of RM Johnson will have this on preorder and won’t regret the decision.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Do You Take This Woman? is the 7th book for author RM Johnson. His other books are Dating Game and The Million Dollar Divorce. I have not read these other books. The publisher is Simon and Schuster, and the book will be available in August 2006.
I liked the fact that each character is a successful Black African American. The main male characters Pete and Wayne are doctors with a successful practice. The female leads, Carla and Me’Shell, are equally successful. All are intellectuals with solid communication skills. All the characters feel strongly about what they are doing, whatever their motivation, and the conviction shows in their actions. Above all else this is a story about love. Love of brothers (Pete and Wayne), love of a spouse, love of a significant other, and love of the forbidden. It’s the last love that is central to the plot of the story.
From the start we are taken quickly into the middle of a situation that has gone from bad to worse. As the book progresses we are taken back and given the background on how things reached the point of the start, and then we watch as the dominoes fall. The pace of the book is fast, at times making me wonder when certain events happened in the overall timeline. I did not find the book to be a difficult read. I found myself quickly reaching the middle and then the end. [Of course I am comparing it to reading Homer or The Lord of the Rings, which can be quite difficult to read at times]
The characters are not so much described as evoked. By that I mean that I could feel how they felt far more than how they might look. Though the various sex scenes do give more refinement to the image. And while descriptive, I would say the sex was just a notch above an R rated movie scene and not X rated. While I cannot say that any of the characters looked like anyone I know, I can say they reminded me of aspects of some people. And that is one of the strong points of the characters, they all have flaws that most have had or seen in someone you know.
As I progressed deeper into the story the dominoes that would be set and dropped were not unexpected, but not overly obvious either. The writing conveys the anguish and difficulty several characters go thru before making a decision and then living thru its consequences. And the ending was somewhat of a surprise. The anti-climax was definitely a surprise and lifted my spirit a bit.
The one thing I found I did not like were the extremity of the flaws the characters had. Or perhaps the choices and decision made would be more accurate. While I can understand the motivations of each character in an isolated situation, I couldn’t imagine myself or anyone else going thru all of them. Perhaps I’ve been lucky, but there are several things that Pete and Wayne do that I could not have. Both characters make choices with consequences that I could not see happening. Carla and Me’shell both acquiesce to situations I have never know a Black African American woman to do. But my experiences are limited. Given the limits I will say that most every reader will probably see some event and say ‘I know how that feels’ or ‘I went thru something like that’ or ‘I wouldn’t go there if that happened to me’. Even so there is a soap opera feel to the overall story, which some will enjoy greatly.
In conclusion, Do You Take This Woman? is a decent book. If you are a fan of the previous RM Johnson books, I expect you will enjoy this. If you are a fan of soap operas and romantic tragedies this is in you line. If you want to look at your relationship and feel better this will do it. I found the book to be fair. And I am sure that those who like this genre more than I will find it worth the purchase. I think fans of RM Johnson will have this on preorder and won’t regret the decision.
This is what I think, what do you think?
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