If you're not watching "Psych" you're missing the funniest show on television. The program features James Roday and Dule Hill as fake psychic detective Shawn Spencer and his sidekick/best friend Burton "Gus" Guster.
Shawn's father spent his entire life training him to be a cop, so he's overly observant. However, he parlayed this skill into a job with the Santa Barbara Police Department as a psychic detective, dragging Gus along for the ride.
While the whole show is smartly written and hilariously acted, it is the perfect comedic timing between Roday and Hill that really makes the show brilliant.
The way they play off of each other makes the audience think that they are really lifelong friends who often find themselves mixed up in wacky shenanigans.
Shawn is the wild, over-the-top one, so Roday is the one who gets to do all the crazy psychic revelation scenes. Gus is the straight man, leaving Hill to set up Roday's wackiness and either explain it or go along. It's usually the latter.
The way these two experienced actors make their special brand of magic work often causes laugh out loud hilarity that can only take place in the ridiculous world they've created.
Their chemistry brings to mind classic teams like Abbott and Costello, Martin and Lewis or The Rat Pack.
Because it airs on the USA Network "Psych" is one of those shows you have to wait a long time for and then once it's on you can't imagine how you lived without it on your schedule.
With last week's episode "High Top Fade Out" already an instant classic and taking its place among favorites like "American Duos" and "Lights, Camera...Homicidio" you can tell the show is starting to hit its stride and will only get stronger.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
New Fall Season: Part 2
Since Tim gave his take on the new fall season I thought I should offer my two cents worth.
The Good:
"Castle"-This is one of the most enjoyable shows on TV. The characters are smart and funny with great chemistry. Nathan Fillion is ridiculously charming and has finally found a role tailor made for him. One of my favorite things about the show is the supporting characters of Castle's mother and daughter and also the other detective team at the police station. This is high quality entertainment.
"The Good Wife"-Julianna Margulies makes this show work in a way that it never could without her. As the scandalized Alicia Florrick, Margulies gives the audience vulnerability, insecurity and strength all in the course of one scene. A cast of TV veterans including Chris Noth and Josh Charles gives the material a weight that will draw viewers in.
"psych"- While technically not a fall show, no examination of good TV would be complete without mentioning the funniest show on television. James Roday and Dule Hill have the timing of a classic comedy team. It's a show that must be watched multiple times because chances are you laughed through some of the jokes.
"Glee"-Hands down the most creative show to hit the airwaves since "24." Everything from the acting to the inspired choice of music makes this show a winner. It's the definition of appointment television and Matthew Morrison is a star in the making.
The Eh:
"Flash Forward"-The most buzzed about and hyped up show of the new season is only ok. Unlike "Lost" which drew viewers in instantly, this feels more like diet "Lost," close but not quite the real thing.
"Community"-Unlike Tim I'm not ready to give up on Joel McHale just yet, but the show isn't quite living up to expectations. While there are definitely some funny moments, the show still needs more fine tuning.
The Bad:
"Smallville"-Put this show out of its misery already.
"The Vampire Diaries"-Stumbled across it by accident and my brain still hurts.
"Eastwick"-There is absolutely nothing enchanting about this show, all involved should get out now.
Check back for more updates and analysis on the new fall TV season.
The Good:
"Castle"-This is one of the most enjoyable shows on TV. The characters are smart and funny with great chemistry. Nathan Fillion is ridiculously charming and has finally found a role tailor made for him. One of my favorite things about the show is the supporting characters of Castle's mother and daughter and also the other detective team at the police station. This is high quality entertainment.
"The Good Wife"-Julianna Margulies makes this show work in a way that it never could without her. As the scandalized Alicia Florrick, Margulies gives the audience vulnerability, insecurity and strength all in the course of one scene. A cast of TV veterans including Chris Noth and Josh Charles gives the material a weight that will draw viewers in.
"psych"- While technically not a fall show, no examination of good TV would be complete without mentioning the funniest show on television. James Roday and Dule Hill have the timing of a classic comedy team. It's a show that must be watched multiple times because chances are you laughed through some of the jokes.
"Glee"-Hands down the most creative show to hit the airwaves since "24." Everything from the acting to the inspired choice of music makes this show a winner. It's the definition of appointment television and Matthew Morrison is a star in the making.
The Eh:
"Flash Forward"-The most buzzed about and hyped up show of the new season is only ok. Unlike "Lost" which drew viewers in instantly, this feels more like diet "Lost," close but not quite the real thing.
"Community"-Unlike Tim I'm not ready to give up on Joel McHale just yet, but the show isn't quite living up to expectations. While there are definitely some funny moments, the show still needs more fine tuning.
The Bad:
"Smallville"-Put this show out of its misery already.
"The Vampire Diaries"-Stumbled across it by accident and my brain still hurts.
"Eastwick"-There is absolutely nothing enchanting about this show, all involved should get out now.
Check back for more updates and analysis on the new fall TV season.
Monday, September 28, 2009
New fall season: The good, eh and ugly
Last week was the first full week of the new television season.
And as a dedicated journalist, I sat through hours and hours of television to sort of the best from the rest.
And, boy, the rest was really unimpressed.
The Good:
Monday - "Castle" returned for a second season and hit another one out of the park. Not only did it continue the story from last season, but resolved it by the end of the episode. It also gave one of the best mysteries of the week which had me guessing until the end. More people should be watching, and loving, this show. 9 p.m. ABC.
Thursday - "Fringe" actually aired its second episode this week and it was just as good as the season opener. This one dealt with a scorpion-mole-man creature that pulled people underground to kill and eat them. There was even a point at the end that made me almost jump off the couch screaming like a little girl. For that, they win.
Friday - "Dollhouse" came back with a vengeance (in the Friday night death slot) with a great new episode. Like with "Castle" we got more from the stories left over from last season. Amy Acker got a wonderful chance to shine and was amazing. She deserves an Emmy for this episode. We were also introduced to what could be the "big bad" this season in Alexis Denisof playing a United States Senator looking to take down the Dollhouse(s).
The "EH" (Not bad, but not great either) -
"Law and Order: SVU" - Started out great with guest star Wentworth Miller, but lost steam when characters started acting stupid. The cop is crazy the whole episode, beating people up, acting weird, but you let him take a little girl alone, then escort the serial killer alone to the bathroom? Come on.
"The Office" - Last week I told Stephanie that the show seemed repetitive to me. Like they recycled old plots. Last week Jim had to be the good guy and save Michael from looking stupid all while revealing something personal. Been there, done that. Now this week Michael acts all crazy because he thinks something is happening, says a lot of horrible things, then realizes he made a mistake and tries to fix it. And yes, Jim should have just quit on the spot.
"Mercy" - The new medical show from NBC. I was intrigued by the premise of a Iraq returning nurse who is dealing with her life after war. Apparently the show is really about nurses with too much time on their hands. There was more hand holding and comforting that actual nursing being done. Plus, two of the main characters had significant others, but in the span of an hour were hooking up with people that weren't their boyfriends/husbands, THEN trying to get with a bartender at the very end of the episode.
The Ugly -
I won't even waste time or typing power on these:
"Smallville" - Stupid, annoying and major out of character actions.
"Brothers" - Just because one actor is in a wheelchair and one has a gap in his teeth doesn't mean 90 percent of the jokes have to be about those two things.
"Heroes" - Yeah, still bad.
"Community" - Watched the pilot, didn't laugh. Watched the second episode, didn't laugh. That's it.
And as a dedicated journalist, I sat through hours and hours of television to sort of the best from the rest.
And, boy, the rest was really unimpressed.
The Good:
Monday - "Castle" returned for a second season and hit another one out of the park. Not only did it continue the story from last season, but resolved it by the end of the episode. It also gave one of the best mysteries of the week which had me guessing until the end. More people should be watching, and loving, this show. 9 p.m. ABC.
Thursday - "Fringe" actually aired its second episode this week and it was just as good as the season opener. This one dealt with a scorpion-mole-man creature that pulled people underground to kill and eat them. There was even a point at the end that made me almost jump off the couch screaming like a little girl. For that, they win.
Friday - "Dollhouse" came back with a vengeance (in the Friday night death slot) with a great new episode. Like with "Castle" we got more from the stories left over from last season. Amy Acker got a wonderful chance to shine and was amazing. She deserves an Emmy for this episode. We were also introduced to what could be the "big bad" this season in Alexis Denisof playing a United States Senator looking to take down the Dollhouse(s).
The "EH" (Not bad, but not great either) -
"Law and Order: SVU" - Started out great with guest star Wentworth Miller, but lost steam when characters started acting stupid. The cop is crazy the whole episode, beating people up, acting weird, but you let him take a little girl alone, then escort the serial killer alone to the bathroom? Come on.
"The Office" - Last week I told Stephanie that the show seemed repetitive to me. Like they recycled old plots. Last week Jim had to be the good guy and save Michael from looking stupid all while revealing something personal. Been there, done that. Now this week Michael acts all crazy because he thinks something is happening, says a lot of horrible things, then realizes he made a mistake and tries to fix it. And yes, Jim should have just quit on the spot.
"Mercy" - The new medical show from NBC. I was intrigued by the premise of a Iraq returning nurse who is dealing with her life after war. Apparently the show is really about nurses with too much time on their hands. There was more hand holding and comforting that actual nursing being done. Plus, two of the main characters had significant others, but in the span of an hour were hooking up with people that weren't their boyfriends/husbands, THEN trying to get with a bartender at the very end of the episode.
The Ugly -
I won't even waste time or typing power on these:
"Smallville" - Stupid, annoying and major out of character actions.
"Brothers" - Just because one actor is in a wheelchair and one has a gap in his teeth doesn't mean 90 percent of the jokes have to be about those two things.
"Heroes" - Yeah, still bad.
"Community" - Watched the pilot, didn't laugh. Watched the second episode, didn't laugh. That's it.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Editor's note about last week
To say Inscaped has been busy this last week is an understatement.
Besides me being sick part of the week, then job No. 2 keeping me busy, Stephanie had a lot on her work plate as well.
Plus, we are almost done working on Inscaped 2.0, to debut very soon.
And then a major announcement (probably late next week.)
Regular posting will return on Monday, with such things as a "Surrogates" review, a rant about "Marvel: Ultimate Alliance 2" for the PS2 and a look at the first full week of the new television season.
Besides me being sick part of the week, then job No. 2 keeping me busy, Stephanie had a lot on her work plate as well.
Plus, we are almost done working on Inscaped 2.0, to debut very soon.
And then a major announcement (probably late next week.)
Regular posting will return on Monday, with such things as a "Surrogates" review, a rant about "Marvel: Ultimate Alliance 2" for the PS2 and a look at the first full week of the new television season.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Fall TV preview: Wednesday
ABC: The network is trying to bring back their comedy lineup by featuring shows starring TV comedy vets. The night starts off with "Hank" starring Kelsey Grammer, which leads into "The Middle" with Patricia Heaton, "Modern Family" with Ed O'Neil and finishes the night with "Cougar Town" starring Courtney Cox.
I actually got to see a preview of "Modern Family" and it had quite a few laughs. Unfortunately the rest of the night is not so entertaining, which means ABC better have those midseason replacements ready.
At 10 p.m. is "Eastwick" which is about three women who discover they have magical powers and are actually powerful witches. Since I enjoyed this show the first time when it was called "Charmed" I think I'll skip it this time around and stick with "CSI NY."
CBS: The only network keeping the night identical to last season once again gives audiences "The New Adventures of Old Christine," "Gary Unmarried," "Criminal Minds" and "CSI NY." Being a big fan of the "CSI" franchise, I know where I'll be at 10 p.m.
NBC: New hospital drama "Mercy" starts off the night at 8 p.m. and is followed by "Law & Order: SVU" at 9 p.m. "Mercy" feels like an attempt to replace "ER" and that's a pretty irreplaceable show, but the pilot does look interesting so I may give it one chance to hold my attention.
CW: Models, models, models! The CW's nightly lineup seems to get progressively worse as the week goes on.
FOX: For my money this is the place to be on Wed. At 8 p.m. it's the "So You Think You Can Dance" results show followed by my new favorite show "Glee" at 9 p.m. Seriously, if you're not watching "Glee" you're missing out. It's the most creative and funny new show of the season. I hope FOX gives it a fair chance and doesn't jerk fans around.
I actually got to see a preview of "Modern Family" and it had quite a few laughs. Unfortunately the rest of the night is not so entertaining, which means ABC better have those midseason replacements ready.
At 10 p.m. is "Eastwick" which is about three women who discover they have magical powers and are actually powerful witches. Since I enjoyed this show the first time when it was called "Charmed" I think I'll skip it this time around and stick with "CSI NY."
CBS: The only network keeping the night identical to last season once again gives audiences "The New Adventures of Old Christine," "Gary Unmarried," "Criminal Minds" and "CSI NY." Being a big fan of the "CSI" franchise, I know where I'll be at 10 p.m.
NBC: New hospital drama "Mercy" starts off the night at 8 p.m. and is followed by "Law & Order: SVU" at 9 p.m. "Mercy" feels like an attempt to replace "ER" and that's a pretty irreplaceable show, but the pilot does look interesting so I may give it one chance to hold my attention.
CW: Models, models, models! The CW's nightly lineup seems to get progressively worse as the week goes on.
FOX: For my money this is the place to be on Wed. At 8 p.m. it's the "So You Think You Can Dance" results show followed by my new favorite show "Glee" at 9 p.m. Seriously, if you're not watching "Glee" you're missing out. It's the most creative and funny new show of the season. I hope FOX gives it a fair chance and doesn't jerk fans around.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Worst cartoon ever
I have always been a big comic book fan, obviously.
As a child I had all the toys and watched all the cartoons. Recently the "Super Friends: The Lost Episodes" was released on DVD. Meaning episodes that never aired on television.
I rented it through Netflix and was eager to watch it. I actually ripped open the envelope as quickly as possible.
The first episode I saw "The Rollercoaster" I clicked on to watch.
And boy, did my soul die a little.
The plot involves two not-so-tough looking gang members (they look like a nerdy Fonzie) bringing a very nerdy, overweight guy with glasses to an shut down amusement park as part of a gang initiation. First problem, a guy like that would never be accepted by any gang. Sorry.
So they sneak onto the rollercoaster and open the electrical box to start the ride. The key for the box falls out (remember that.) They get on the ride and of course it goes out of control and the coaster starts to fall apart.
Luckily, the Wonder Twins and their monkey Gleek are coming out of a movie RIGHT across the street. They run over there to help.
Jayna turns into a giant eagle. And before Zan can transform I guess "Bucket of water?" And he then turns into a bucket of water.
They fly up and try to save the gang members, but can't. They go down to try to shut the ride down, but the electrical box is locked! Even though the key just fell out five minutes earlier. If she just looked down...
So they send Gleek to get The Atom at the Justice League HQ.
In the meantime Jayna turns into a walrus and Zan into an ice car. Yes, an ice car. They save two of the gang bangers, but can't save the nerdy one.
At Justice League HQ Gleek is screaming at the Atom in monkey talk. Now a little background, Ray Palmer who is the Atom is supposed to be one of the smartest men alive in the DC Universe. But, in the cartoon? Not so much. Here is his response to Gleek.
"What's wrong Gleek? I can't understand you?"
Maybe because he's a freaking monkey!!!
So Atom follows Gleek back and shrinks down to fit through the keyhole and saves the day.
The gang members get a lecture on true friendship and whatever.
I promptly put the DVD back in the envelope and sent it back.
As a child I had all the toys and watched all the cartoons. Recently the "Super Friends: The Lost Episodes" was released on DVD. Meaning episodes that never aired on television.
I rented it through Netflix and was eager to watch it. I actually ripped open the envelope as quickly as possible.
The first episode I saw "The Rollercoaster" I clicked on to watch.
And boy, did my soul die a little.
The plot involves two not-so-tough looking gang members (they look like a nerdy Fonzie) bringing a very nerdy, overweight guy with glasses to an shut down amusement park as part of a gang initiation. First problem, a guy like that would never be accepted by any gang. Sorry.
So they sneak onto the rollercoaster and open the electrical box to start the ride. The key for the box falls out (remember that.) They get on the ride and of course it goes out of control and the coaster starts to fall apart.
Luckily, the Wonder Twins and their monkey Gleek are coming out of a movie RIGHT across the street. They run over there to help.
Jayna turns into a giant eagle. And before Zan can transform I guess "Bucket of water?" And he then turns into a bucket of water.
They fly up and try to save the gang members, but can't. They go down to try to shut the ride down, but the electrical box is locked! Even though the key just fell out five minutes earlier. If she just looked down...
So they send Gleek to get The Atom at the Justice League HQ.
In the meantime Jayna turns into a walrus and Zan into an ice car. Yes, an ice car. They save two of the gang bangers, but can't save the nerdy one.
At Justice League HQ Gleek is screaming at the Atom in monkey talk. Now a little background, Ray Palmer who is the Atom is supposed to be one of the smartest men alive in the DC Universe. But, in the cartoon? Not so much. Here is his response to Gleek.
"What's wrong Gleek? I can't understand you?"
Maybe because he's a freaking monkey!!!
So Atom follows Gleek back and shrinks down to fit through the keyhole and saves the day.
The gang members get a lecture on true friendship and whatever.
I promptly put the DVD back in the envelope and sent it back.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Patrick Swayze: 1952-2009
I saw an interview once where Patrick Swayze said that on his tombstone it would probably read "nobody puts Baby in a corner." His most famous line from his most famous film will no doubt be the number one clip shown today, but Swayze had a very diverse career that proved he was more than just Johnny Castle.
His career began with roles in films like "Grandview U.S.A" and "The Outsiders." He was a heartthrob after "Red Dawn" and "Youngblood" came out and he became an icon with "Dirty Dancing" and "Ghost."
Though his filmography isn't overflowing with box office hits, most of his movies are considered to be cult classics. "Point Break" is perhaps the greatest skydiver/surfer/bank robber movie ever made. And who doesn't love spending a Saturday afternoon with a "Road House," "Next of Kin" double feature.
In honor of his passing, I've compiled a list of my favorite Swayze performances.
His career began with roles in films like "Grandview U.S.A" and "The Outsiders." He was a heartthrob after "Red Dawn" and "Youngblood" came out and he became an icon with "Dirty Dancing" and "Ghost."
Though his filmography isn't overflowing with box office hits, most of his movies are considered to be cult classics. "Point Break" is perhaps the greatest skydiver/surfer/bank robber movie ever made. And who doesn't love spending a Saturday afternoon with a "Road House," "Next of Kin" double feature.
In honor of his passing, I've compiled a list of my favorite Swayze performances.
- "Dirty Dancing"-If you were alive in 1987, you had a crush on Patrick Swayze.
- "Red Dawn"-One word. "Wolverines!"
- "To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything Julie Newmar"-The best on-screen drag queen since Jack Lemmon in "Some Like it Hot."
- "SNL: The Chippendales Audition"-One of my all time favorite sketches and one of Chris Farley's best could not have happened without Swayze's willingness to poke fun at his heartthrob status.
- "The Outsiders"-This film featured a who's who's of 80s heartthrobs, but Swayze shined as the older brother who looked after his fellow greasers.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Fall TV preview: Tuesday
ABC: "Shark Tank" is at 8 p.m. followed by the "Dancing with the Stars" results show. While at 10 p.m. the latest Jerry Bruckheimer procedural "The Forgotten" will try to keep audiences interested. It stars Christian Slater as a former cop who leads a team that investigates the murders of unidentified victims. I'm always willing to give Christian Slater a chance and with a huge lead in, it could do well.
CBS: With the "NCIS" double feature monopolizing the night, CBS definitely has the strongest ratings numbers, however, spin-offs can be tricky and this one has already had some controversy. "NCIS: Los Angeles" has undergone cast changes and a few minor plot changes but it will probably still be a big hit because "NCIS" is enormously popular.
At 10 p.m. Julianna Margulies returns to TV with Chris Noth in "The Good Wife." She plays a politician's wife who must return to practicing law after a scandal. Margulies is great at playing the strong yet vulnerable female lead so this is a show with definite possibilities.
CW: A lineup so awful it's not worth mentioning.
FOX/NBC: Both networks go the reality route with FOX airing summer hit "So You Think You Can Dance" in the fall and NBC giving us yet another season of "The Biggest Loser."
Perhaps the best showdown of the season will be the battle of the dance shows when "DWTS" takes on "SYTYCD."
CBS: With the "NCIS" double feature monopolizing the night, CBS definitely has the strongest ratings numbers, however, spin-offs can be tricky and this one has already had some controversy. "NCIS: Los Angeles" has undergone cast changes and a few minor plot changes but it will probably still be a big hit because "NCIS" is enormously popular.
At 10 p.m. Julianna Margulies returns to TV with Chris Noth in "The Good Wife." She plays a politician's wife who must return to practicing law after a scandal. Margulies is great at playing the strong yet vulnerable female lead so this is a show with definite possibilities.
CW: A lineup so awful it's not worth mentioning.
FOX/NBC: Both networks go the reality route with FOX airing summer hit "So You Think You Can Dance" in the fall and NBC giving us yet another season of "The Biggest Loser."
Perhaps the best showdown of the season will be the battle of the dance shows when "DWTS" takes on "SYTYCD."
Sunday, September 13, 2009
D23 expo: Treasures of the Walt Disney archives
Perhaps one of the most spectacular displays at the inaugural D23 expo is the Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives.
Memorabilia from Walt Disney's desk.
This exhibit allows fans to get up close and personal with classic Disney props and wardrobe. Items on display include the original Herbie the Love Bug, Annette's Mouseketeer costume and Michael Jackson's costume from Captain EO.
Below are a few photos of the exhibit provided by the Walt Disney Company.
Memorabilia from Walt Disney's desk.One of Annette and Cubby's costumes from the original "Mickey Mouse Club."
The Nautilus from "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea."
Johnny Depp's Captain Jack Sparrow costume.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
"FlashForward" preview
As a part of the D23 expo, ABC is offering previews of a few of its new fall series. Among the most buzzed about is "FlashForward."
The show examines what happens when everyone in the world blacks out for 2 minutes and 17 seconds and sees six months into the future. The series features stars Joseph Fiennes, John Cho and Courtney B. Vance with an ensemble cast.
As a result of the global blackouts the world is in chaos. There is endless destruction and no explanation. Fiennes plays a happily married FBI agent who is a recovering alcoholic who sees himself as a paranoid drunk investigating the phenomenon. His wife Olivia is a doctor who sees herself with another man and his partner Demetri (Cho) doesn't see anything which causes him great concern.
With all the talk and buzz its created, I expected "FlashForward" to immediately grab me and pull me in. Unfortunately, this was not the case. I found the pilot slow moving and poorly paced making for a completely unriveting 45 minutes of TV.
Fiennes does okay in the lead but the role doesn't seem fully developed yet, so I suppose I'll have to wait and see. As a matter of fact none of the characters were all that interesting, which is a problem in a character driven drama like this.
Dominic Monaghan is supposed to join the cast in the second episode as the mysterious Simon, though it's hard to say how many people will stick around considering that it's up against "The Mentalist."
All in all I found "FlashForward" a bit unremarkable, but I will give it another couple episodes to find its footing, but it needs to find it fast or I'll move on.
The show examines what happens when everyone in the world blacks out for 2 minutes and 17 seconds and sees six months into the future. The series features stars Joseph Fiennes, John Cho and Courtney B. Vance with an ensemble cast.
As a result of the global blackouts the world is in chaos. There is endless destruction and no explanation. Fiennes plays a happily married FBI agent who is a recovering alcoholic who sees himself as a paranoid drunk investigating the phenomenon. His wife Olivia is a doctor who sees herself with another man and his partner Demetri (Cho) doesn't see anything which causes him great concern.
With all the talk and buzz its created, I expected "FlashForward" to immediately grab me and pull me in. Unfortunately, this was not the case. I found the pilot slow moving and poorly paced making for a completely unriveting 45 minutes of TV.
Fiennes does okay in the lead but the role doesn't seem fully developed yet, so I suppose I'll have to wait and see. As a matter of fact none of the characters were all that interesting, which is a problem in a character driven drama like this.
Dominic Monaghan is supposed to join the cast in the second episode as the mysterious Simon, though it's hard to say how many people will stick around considering that it's up against "The Mentalist."
All in all I found "FlashForward" a bit unremarkable, but I will give it another couple episodes to find its footing, but it needs to find it fast or I'll move on.
D23 expo: The future of theme parks
With each department of the company trying to top each other with their presentations, today it was time for theme parks and resorts to have their panel.
Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, began by announcing plans for a massive expansion of Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World. The project will primarily focus on the princesses by giving each character its own fantasy world for guests to explore.
Plans include a Sweet 16 party for Aurora with the three fairies, a fantasy ball with Cinderella and Belle's village which will feature the Beast's Castle with the Be Our Guest restaurant. A first in theme park history, the restaurant will be quick service during the day and switch to table service at night. The expansion will be completed in 2012.
Back here at Disneyland, fan favorite Star Tours will close down in Oct. 2010 in order to revamp and update the attraction with new scenes focusing on the pod race from "Episode 1." For this announcement Rasulo was confronted on stage by members of the 501st Legion and on screen by Darth Vader himself. Star Tours will reopen with the new look in 2011.
There was also a lot of focus on the new Cars Land in Disney's California Adventure. The Pixar inspired land will feature the Radiator Springs Racers, Luigi's Flying Tires and Mater's Junkyard Jam.
Perhaps the most glaring omission from today's panel was any information regarding the return of Captain EO. In the weeks since Michael Jackson's death the rumors have been flying that the 80s attraction would make a comeback. However, there was absolutely no comment made on the subject even though high ranking Disney executives had a special screening of the film earlier in the week that was apparently received very well.
The absence marred what was an otherwise exciting panel.
Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, began by announcing plans for a massive expansion of Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World. The project will primarily focus on the princesses by giving each character its own fantasy world for guests to explore.
Plans include a Sweet 16 party for Aurora with the three fairies, a fantasy ball with Cinderella and Belle's village which will feature the Beast's Castle with the Be Our Guest restaurant. A first in theme park history, the restaurant will be quick service during the day and switch to table service at night. The expansion will be completed in 2012.
Back here at Disneyland, fan favorite Star Tours will close down in Oct. 2010 in order to revamp and update the attraction with new scenes focusing on the pod race from "Episode 1." For this announcement Rasulo was confronted on stage by members of the 501st Legion and on screen by Darth Vader himself. Star Tours will reopen with the new look in 2011.
There was also a lot of focus on the new Cars Land in Disney's California Adventure. The Pixar inspired land will feature the Radiator Springs Racers, Luigi's Flying Tires and Mater's Junkyard Jam.
Perhaps the most glaring omission from today's panel was any information regarding the return of Captain EO. In the weeks since Michael Jackson's death the rumors have been flying that the 80s attraction would make a comeback. However, there was absolutely no comment made on the subject even though high ranking Disney executives had a special screening of the film earlier in the week that was apparently received very well.
The absence marred what was an otherwise exciting panel.
Friday, September 11, 2009
D23 expo: Walt Disney Studios
On day two of the D23 expo it's Walt Disney Studios chance to share all the top secret information they can with fans.
The presentation began with a montage of all the studios best known films accompanied by a live orchestra playing the music that made those films famous. Dick Cook, the head of the studio hosted the panel which lasted about an hour and a half.
The first big release discussed was "Old Dogs," which stars John Travolta and Robin Williams as middle aged men who must suddenly act as father figures to Williams' surprise children. The audience was treated to a hilarious clip of the film which is scheduled for release this Thanksgiving.
The film also stars Travolta's wife Kelly Preston and their daughter Ella Bleu. The family appeared on stage to discuss the film and working with Williams, and were welcomed with a standing ovation.
The presentation began with a montage of all the studios best known films accompanied by a live orchestra playing the music that made those films famous. Dick Cook, the head of the studio hosted the panel which lasted about an hour and a half.
The first big release discussed was "Old Dogs," which stars John Travolta and Robin Williams as middle aged men who must suddenly act as father figures to Williams' surprise children. The audience was treated to a hilarious clip of the film which is scheduled for release this Thanksgiving.
The film also stars Travolta's wife Kelly Preston and their daughter Ella Bleu. The family appeared on stage to discuss the film and working with Williams, and were welcomed with a standing ovation.
Also premiering scenes at the panel was Robert Zemeckis' new motion capture version of "A Christmas Carol," starring Jim Carrey. Zemeckis came out to introduce a 3D behind-the-scenes trailer of this update of the holiday classic. Luckily the audience were provided with 3D glasses to enjoy the clip.
In the film Carrey not only plays Ebenzer Scrooge at four different ages but he also portrays the three ghosts and Tiny Tim. Carrey is the sort of actor that this style of filmmaking was made for and it really shows on screen.
In the film Carrey not only plays Ebenzer Scrooge at four different ages but he also portrays the three ghosts and Tiny Tim. Carrey is the sort of actor that this style of filmmaking was made for and it really shows on screen.
For those who haven't gotten enough Beatles news this week, it was announced that Zemeckis would be remaking The Beatles film "Yellow Submarine."
It was a really nice moment for younger fans when both The Muppets and Miley Cyrus provided musical performances. You haven't lived until you've heard Kermit sing "Rainbow Connection" live.
Super producer Jerry Bruckheimer appeared to offer a sneak peek at "The Prince of Persia: Sands of Time." Jake Gyllenhaal plays the hero of the action film based on the video game. I have to admit I have been skeptical about this film since it was first announced, however, after seeing the footage I think I may have to change my opinion of this project.
Frequent Bruckheimer collaborator Nicolas Cage was on hand to premiere the trailer for "The Sorcerer's Apprentice." The film stars Cage as sorcerer Balthazar Blake, who has been looking for an apprentice for centuries when he finally discovers Jay Baruchel in modern day New York.
It was a really nice moment for younger fans when both The Muppets and Miley Cyrus provided musical performances. You haven't lived until you've heard Kermit sing "Rainbow Connection" live.
Super producer Jerry Bruckheimer appeared to offer a sneak peek at "The Prince of Persia: Sands of Time." Jake Gyllenhaal plays the hero of the action film based on the video game. I have to admit I have been skeptical about this film since it was first announced, however, after seeing the footage I think I may have to change my opinion of this project.
Frequent Bruckheimer collaborator Nicolas Cage was on hand to premiere the trailer for "The Sorcerer's Apprentice." The film stars Cage as sorcerer Balthazar Blake, who has been looking for an apprentice for centuries when he finally discovers Jay Baruchel in modern day New York.
Following the footage Cook asked Cage if he would be interested in making another "National Treasure" film and Cage said he would.
One of the most exciting parts of the presentation was when visionary director Tim Burton appeared on stage to discuss his new film "Alice in Wonderland." Johnny Depp stars as The Mad Hatter and Helena Bonham Carter plays The Red Queen. Burton received one of the most enthusiastic receptions of the day for the 3D trailer of the movie.
There were also announcements about upcoming projects including "Tron," "John Carter from Mars" and a new studio collaboration with Guillermo Del Toro. However, it was in the final moments that fans were treated to the surprise of the day when the company officially announced "Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides." It was during this announcement that Captain Jack Sparrow himself showed up to give fans a thrill.
That's right, Johnny Depp showed up as Captain Jack Sparrow and stayed in character while the place exploded.
With all the star power and exclusives you could call this presentation Disney's way of drawing first blood in the Hollywood box office battle.
One of the most exciting parts of the presentation was when visionary director Tim Burton appeared on stage to discuss his new film "Alice in Wonderland." Johnny Depp stars as The Mad Hatter and Helena Bonham Carter plays The Red Queen. Burton received one of the most enthusiastic receptions of the day for the 3D trailer of the movie.
There were also announcements about upcoming projects including "Tron," "John Carter from Mars" and a new studio collaboration with Guillermo Del Toro. However, it was in the final moments that fans were treated to the surprise of the day when the company officially announced "Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides." It was during this announcement that Captain Jack Sparrow himself showed up to give fans a thrill.
That's right, Johnny Depp showed up as Captain Jack Sparrow and stayed in character while the place exploded.
With all the star power and exclusives you could call this presentation Disney's way of drawing first blood in the Hollywood box office battle.
D23 expo: The ABC's of Disney
Day one of the D23 expo featured a presentation by ABC, which highlighted some of their shows for the fall TV season.
The panel was hosted by Tome Bergeron from "Dancing With the Stars" and Stephen McPherson, president of ABC entertainment group. The hour focused on ABC's Wednesday night block of comedy programming, the new drama "FlashForward" and "Dancing With the Stars."
"FlashForward" is about what happens when everyone in the world blacks out for two minutes and 17 seconds and is given a vision of their future. The show has been among the most buzzed about new series and seems to follow in the mysterious path of ABC hit "Lost."
"Hank" stars Kelsey Grammer as a CEO who loses everything and moves his family back to his hometown to start over. This fish out of water comedy felt stale and received only polite laughs and pity applause.
It's really a shame because Grammer is a genuinely funny actor who deserves a stronger show than this.
"The Middle" is supposed to be "Roseanne" for a new generation, but Tim pointed out that it's just a rip off of "Malcolm in the Middle." It stars Patricia Heaton as a midwestern mom with a crazy husband and three wacky kids, stop me if this sounds at all familiar.
Perhaps the only stand out of the night is "Modern Family," starring Ed O'Neill. This single camera comedy is about three very different families and how they navigate the problems that new families face.
The show is shot in the style of a mockumentary, giving it a acerbic tone and making it stand out from the rest of the lineup.
Closing out the night is "Cougar Town with Courtney Cox as a recently divorced woman ready to get back in the dating game. Cox plays the role with no ego and her well honed comedy timing may help out with some of the more cliched jokes.
Following the video presentation all four stars appeared on stage and discussed what brought them back to television and why they picked these shows.
The panel closed with a performance by "Dancing With the Stars" pros Cheryl Burke and Derek Hough, plus an appearance by new contestant Donny Osmond and his partner Kym Johnston.
I was hoping for a little information on returning favorites like "Lost" and "Castle" but they seemed to really be pushing the new stuff. Unfortunately some of it wasn't worth waiting for.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
D23: Opening Day
This weekend we've got special coverage from the D23 expo, which is Disney's very own version of comic-con.
The company will be filling in fans and media on everything they have planned for movies, TV and theme parks.
Today is the first day of the expo and it was opened by the president of the Walt Disney Company, Bob Iger. He introduced a video of upcoming projects and explained how the company was evolving in the next year.
The audience was then treated to a surprise screening of the first half hour of the newest animated classic "The Princess and the Frog."
The film takes place in New Orleans and features the first black princess in Tiana. She is then caught up in a very "Nawlins" take on the classic fable "The Frog Prince."
Following the screening, guests were treated to a performance by Tony award winning actress and the voice of Tiana, Anika Noni Rose. She brought the house down, which was no surprise, however, when Iger informed the crowd that she was suffering from bronchitis, it made the performance even more spectacular.
The panel was the closed with a surprise giveaway of a one night stay in the Disney Dream Suite in New Orleans Square. The winner was a fan from Marrieta, CA whose father was once a street sweeper on Main Street in Disneyland.
It was a very Disney way to open the expo.
With presentations planned on every major upcoming project make sure to check back for updates straight from the expo floor.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Box office Tuesday
This box office included the special Labor Day holiday, so the weekend numbers are a bit larger than normal.
In a surprise move, "The Final Destination" held onto the No. 1 spot with around $15 million, bringing its two week total to $50 million. Its budget was only $40 million, so its a hit.
The new films that attempted to dethrone "The Final Destination" included "All About Steve," "Gamer" and "Extract."
"All About Steve," with some really horrible reviews (sitting at five percent at Rotten Tomatoes), managed to be somewhat critic-proof pulling in around $14 million. "Gamer" starring Gerard Butler came in at No. 4 with $11 million.
"Extract" didn't fare too well only pulling in around $5 million and at the No. 10 position, behind movies like "G.I. Joe" and "The Time Traveler's Wife."
A survivor from last week "Halloween 2" only dropped 56 percent from its first week, a far better percent than the first Rob Zombie "Halloween" which saw its second week drop a staggering 63 percent.
A bright spot this weekend was another film passed the $100 million mark, the nineteenth film to do so, "District 9." With the budget at $30 million this is a big hit of not only the summer, but the year.
Another big thing was "Transformers 2" passed the golden $400 million mark. With a budget of $200 million, this is a monster movie money making machine (gotta love alliteration!). Its worldwide total is a jaw dropping $830 million! Wowza. Point of reference, last year's No. 1 "The Dark Knight" made a little over $1 billion worldwide and 2007's "Spiderman 3" did $890 million.
One last maybe-milestone: The new "Harry Potter" film is about $2.5 million away from breaking the $300 million dollar club.
"Transformers 2" is the lonely at the top, it needs company.
In a surprise move, "The Final Destination" held onto the No. 1 spot with around $15 million, bringing its two week total to $50 million. Its budget was only $40 million, so its a hit.
The new films that attempted to dethrone "The Final Destination" included "All About Steve," "Gamer" and "Extract."
"All About Steve," with some really horrible reviews (sitting at five percent at Rotten Tomatoes), managed to be somewhat critic-proof pulling in around $14 million. "Gamer" starring Gerard Butler came in at No. 4 with $11 million.
"Extract" didn't fare too well only pulling in around $5 million and at the No. 10 position, behind movies like "G.I. Joe" and "The Time Traveler's Wife."
A survivor from last week "Halloween 2" only dropped 56 percent from its first week, a far better percent than the first Rob Zombie "Halloween" which saw its second week drop a staggering 63 percent.
A bright spot this weekend was another film passed the $100 million mark, the nineteenth film to do so, "District 9." With the budget at $30 million this is a big hit of not only the summer, but the year.
Another big thing was "Transformers 2" passed the golden $400 million mark. With a budget of $200 million, this is a monster movie money making machine (gotta love alliteration!). Its worldwide total is a jaw dropping $830 million! Wowza. Point of reference, last year's No. 1 "The Dark Knight" made a little over $1 billion worldwide and 2007's "Spiderman 3" did $890 million.
One last maybe-milestone: The new "Harry Potter" film is about $2.5 million away from breaking the $300 million dollar club.
"Transformers 2" is the lonely at the top, it needs company.
Friday, September 4, 2009
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Fall TV Preview: Monday
For most people fall is about the leaves turning and the weather changing. However, for Tim and I, it's about fall TV premieres. Over the next week we'll be analyzing the new season night by night. First up, Monday.
DVR: "CSI: Miami" and "One Tree Hill"
Skip: "Accidentally on Purpose" and "Heroes"
- CBS: Their lineup is almost unchanged with "How I Met Your Mother"moving to 8 p.m. and the new Jenna Elfman comedy "Accidentally on Purpose" following it at 8:30 p.m. Critics have not been kind to this surprise pregnancy comedy, so if you're interested you may want to tune in early, as it may not last long.
- ABC: I suppose they figure if ain't broke don't fix it. They're sticking with the "Dancing With the Stars," "Castle" combo which includes "The Bachelor" taking over when "Dancing" crowns a winner.
- FOX/CW: The CW keeps the same programs and just flip flops the time slots, while FOX has "House" staying at 8 p.m. and "Lie to Me" airing at 9 p.m. Though it hasn't been officially announced, "24" usually takes over the 9 p.m. time slot in Jan.
- NBC: "Heroes" will be desperately trying to get back to its first season brilliance at 8 p.m., with new show "Trauma" at 9 p.m. For me this show is just the new "ER" or "Third Watch," which I already watched so I don't feel any motivation to watch again. At 10 p.m. is "The Jay Leno Show" which we've already written about, so I've nothing left to say on that subject.
DVR: "CSI: Miami" and "One Tree Hill"
Skip: "Accidentally on Purpose" and "Heroes"
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Box office Monday (on Tuesday)
Well Tim called it, "The Final Destination" was the number one movie of the weekend, pulling in $27 million. Apparently the extra dollars generated by 3-D screenings pushed it over the top.
Coming in second with $19 million and a 49 percent drop off was "Inglorious Basterds." Like most Tarantino films it seems to be splitting viewer reaction right down the middle.
In third was "Halloween II," who lost the battle with "Final Destination" and could only pull in $16 million. However, since it only had a $15 million budget everything it makes from now on will be profit. Plus movies like these tend to do very well on DVD.
Rounding out the top five were "District 9" which added $10 million to its $90 million total and "G.I. Joe" with $7.7 million. At a total of $132 million, "G.I. Joe" has still not even come close to its $175 million dollar budget, so while those numbers don't usually add up to failure, in this case they do.
This week's big releases are "All About Steve," a Sandra Bullock-Bradley Cooper romantic comedy, "Gamer," a Gerard Butler action movie and "Extract," the latest workplace comedy from Mike Judge starring Jason Bateman and Ben Affleck. With none of those generating a lot of buzz it's really anybody's guess at what will be next week's number one.
I'm thinking Bullock will win the weekend with wives and girlfriends making their men pay for three straight weeks of "District 9," "Inglorious Basterds" and "The Final Destination."
Coming in second with $19 million and a 49 percent drop off was "Inglorious Basterds." Like most Tarantino films it seems to be splitting viewer reaction right down the middle.
In third was "Halloween II," who lost the battle with "Final Destination" and could only pull in $16 million. However, since it only had a $15 million budget everything it makes from now on will be profit. Plus movies like these tend to do very well on DVD.
Rounding out the top five were "District 9" which added $10 million to its $90 million total and "G.I. Joe" with $7.7 million. At a total of $132 million, "G.I. Joe" has still not even come close to its $175 million dollar budget, so while those numbers don't usually add up to failure, in this case they do.
This week's big releases are "All About Steve," a Sandra Bullock-Bradley Cooper romantic comedy, "Gamer," a Gerard Butler action movie and "Extract," the latest workplace comedy from Mike Judge starring Jason Bateman and Ben Affleck. With none of those generating a lot of buzz it's really anybody's guess at what will be next week's number one.
I'm thinking Bullock will win the weekend with wives and girlfriends making their men pay for three straight weeks of "District 9," "Inglorious Basterds" and "The Final Destination."
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