"The Artist" My Favourite Movie of 2011

"The Artist" is the story of a silent film actor George Valentin, played most excellently by French actor Jean Dujardin, and an up-and-coming starlet Peppy Miller, played by Bérénice Bejo. The movie is shot entirely in black and white, 99% silent and the most original and cleverly entertaining movie I have seen this year. It is my favourite film of 2011.

To say more of the plot, etc. would give too much away. I encourage everyone to go see this movie, if you enjoy(ed) the romance and charm of a movie era long gone, you will love this movie. I will definitely see this movie again.

In British Columbia, the movie it is rated G, however, I would not recommend it to children under 10.

The movie is being distributed by The Weinstein Company and Alliance in Canada and I have heard that Harvey Weinstein supported this small film from the beginning, his brother Bob was a bit more reserved and actually told Harvey that he was out of his mind for marketing a silent, black and white film in the current movie environment. I am so glad that Harvey didn't listen to his brother. Hopefully, this film will win many awards, it would be the first time since 1928 ('Wings') that a silent film has won Best Picture.

Check out the trailer.


An interview with Jean Dujardin.

What's Up With All the Remakes Lately?!

'Death Originality Takes a Holiday'...the latest 'trend' in Hollywood is remaking films, currently the focus is skewed towards movies from the 1980s and the 1990s. Although it would seem a relatively new development, remakes have been around since Hollywood first entered the movie business. For a full listing, click here. Case in point,  'Death Takes a Holiday' was remade as 'Meet Joe Black' with Brad Pitt and Anthony Hopkins.

So why the outcry from moviegoers, critics, et al (including myself)? I believe that it is generational and the nostalgia connected to a certain movie. Personaly, when I heard that 'Dirty Dancing' was being remade, I could not believe it. Admittedly, it's not quite a masterpiece and I understand that some may not have seen the original 1987 movie, but why does it have to be remade at all? If you want to see it, just pop in the DVD or view it online.

Hollywood is in the movie-making business, key word here is 'business'. These days when movie-going audiences are dwindling; Hollywood makes more money on releasing its product on DVD and other digital formats then from the actual theatrical release. Hollywood is well aware of this, the movie 'Trespass' starring Nicolas Cage and Nicole Kidman was released in the theatre as well as being available for download at the same time.

Turning to projects that were successful years ago, may take the guesswork out of trying to match up the movie to the audience, however, given that the latest remakes 'Straw Dogs' and 'Footloose' did not fare all that well at the box office, may give Hollywood some food for thought. More support for original projects such as '(500) Days of Summer', 'One Day', 'Like Crazy' and 'Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist', would be a step in the right creative direction.

New York Musings

One month ago, I was in New York and it feels as though a year has gone by. A lot can happen in a month, and so it has - mostly on the work front. To cheer myself up, am thinking back to the action-packed four days we spent in the Big Apple.

The first day we arrived, we did some site-seeing in the immediate neighbourhood (37th street west, between 5th and 6th Avenues). We were immediately struck by the sheer volume of people on the sidewalks, something we only see if we go to Robson Street in downtown Vancouver and that seems rather tame now.

Our first outing was to Rockefeller Plaza (or as it is called '30 Rock'). We did a quick tour of the NBC store and then got our tickets and wristband to attend a live taping of the Late Night with Jimmy Fallon show. The guests for that night were Anna Faris and Michael Emerson with musical guests MGMT (Pink Floyd tribute week). It was a great experience, the show is taped fairly close to real-time, no retakes - started at 5:30pm and was over by 6:45pm. Jimmy Fallon is a gracious person, he is very down-to-earth - quite tall and very cute :)

We walked a lot! Probably, more than what we should have done and found out why the locals take the subway or other forms of transportation. However, our exploration gave us a great introduction to New York and we saw many sites that otherwise we may have missed.

We also took part in the 'Sex and the City' tour, which was great fun! So many people from all over the world, it makes you realize how small the world really is. It was neat to see some of the restaurants, stores, etc. where the show had filmed some of the iconic episodes.

Of course, a trip to NYC is not complete without taking in a Broadway show, we saw 'Wicked' at the Gershwin Theatre. Having seen this show in Vancouver in June, it was thrilling to see it where it all started and to be able to share it with my friend who was seeing it for the first time. The production was grand and did not disappoint.

All to soon, our trip was winding down and we spent our last day having lunch at Serendipity 3, the restaurant featured in the movies 'Serendipity' and 'One Fine Day'. We actually sat at the 'One Fine Day' table :) We also observed two, what appeared at first to be secret agents, they turned out to be bodyguards. They ushered in a distinguished-looking family who were seated across from us. My curiosity was just too great not to ask the waiter as to who they were...he smiled and asked "have you heard of a small sports team called the New York Yankees?", duh yes. He continued "they are the Steinbrenner family (the owners)." A brush with local celebrities, quite cool.

Later that night, we had dinner at a local Italian restaurant, where we saw the actress Rutina Wesley (Tara from True Blood) at supper! Very exciting. She was with friends and didn't make eye-contact so I did not approach her, ever the polite Canadian.

I really miss the bagels, so so good. Never knew that bagels were to be fluffy and light. Really hoping that an Au Bon Pain will open up in Vancouver. It became our go-to place in New York, all the food tasted amazing whether it was a simple meal or a more formal dinner - it all tasted great. New York was a lot of fun, I highly recommend it. It is true what they say, there is no other city quite like it.

NYC

Mid-town Manhattan from La Guardia Airport

There are a few places in the world that I wish to explore, suppose you can call it a 'bucket list' of sorts. One of these places is New York City, 8 million people call this city their home. My friend and I have been planning this trip for a few years now, initially it was just a discussion and then it became a reality.

We started off with an ambitious itinerary, which was scaled down considerably as people told us it would be impossible to squeeze that much into 4 days. True enough. I think we did manage to do everything we had on the final itinerary except for maybe a couple of things.

There are many stand-out moments, it is difficult to choose just one, so in no particular order here are some of my favourite New York moments:

- Seeing New York as we landed, a bit surreal.
- My friend opening the drapes of our hotel room and seeing the Empire State Building (our neighbour).
 

Taken from hotel room-no zoom required :)



- The water towers everywhere. Love them, so rustic for such a modern city.




- Seeing many of the buildings that have become iconic as featured on television and feature films.


30 Rockefeller Plaza aka 30 Rock



The new One World Trade Centre tower and complex.
Will be 104 stories tall.

- Central Park

The Bow Bridge in Central Park

There are just so many things to see and do in New York, we didn't even scratch the surface. It was a great first visit and look forward to another visit where we can explore even more sights and sounds of this world-class city!

It's here...'Breaking Dawn-Part 1' Official Trailer

The trailer for 'Breaking Dawn-Part 1' was released on Bella's birthday, September 13 - very appropriate. I hope that this is the only trailer that is released as it will leave a bit of mystery as to what we will see in the movie. Twihards know the books well, so we don't need umpteenth amount of trailers which basically constitute the entire movie.

Must admit, this trailer looks good. Like how Bill Condon has switched from the sweeping aerial shots, to shooting from the ground up. Love that opening scene of swooshing along the river (think that was shot in Squamish).

November 18, the countdown continues :)

An Afternoon with the Vancouver Canadians

A week ago, I attended my first Vancouver Canadians' game and loved it. I have always enjoyed baseball so am not to sure why it took 17 years for me to go see a Canadians game...guess the important thing is that I finally went!

It was very entertaining, I was told it had elements of the movie 'Bull Durham' and it sure did! Mascot doing the chicken dance; Smart Car driving around the outfield; grounds keepers with rakes doing a dance; even a Sushi race...yes, a sushi race (people dressed as pieces of sushi racing each other) you have had to been there to believe it!

The Canadians team consists of young men from the US, Venezuela and the Dominican Republic. It was especially entertaining for me to hear them sing the Canadian anthem and doing it very well I may say.

We lost 6-4 to the Tri City Dust Devils but that didn't matter - it was a fun afternoon and I highly recommend it. Will definitely go again!

The Canadians Line-Up

"Batter, batter, batter, swwwiiinnngggg batter!"

Yeehaw!

It's Snowing in August...Wellington, New Zealand

It's no secret that I adore New Zealand. Since visiting that country in 2008, I have been planning a return trip, hopefully within the next couple of years.

On Monday, August 15, the biggest snowfall for that day took place in Wellington, New Zealand. This video captures some of the images of the snow set to Claire de Lune, very well done. It also made me wish I was there right now, ah NZ why do you have to be half a world away?! :)

Adele Wows in Vancouver

Last night, I attended the Adele concert at the Orpheum Theatre in Vancouver. She was in fine form and we, the fans, certainly appreciated her artistry. After a bout with laryngitis which literally left her without a voice for several weeks in June/July, she admitted that she didn't think she would ever sing again.

The stage was set as a livingroom, warm carpet runners, standing lamps and hanging lampshades made us feel as though she was singing to us from her home. The first song 'Homecoming' was dedicated to her hometown, London, England, as it reels from 3 days of continuous rioting.

Her voice is indescribable live, it is so powerful, poignant, emotional, raw, sweet - truly one of few artists that sound better live.

Intermittently, Adele would regale us with stories - inspirations and insights, into why she wrote certain songs. She is very down-to-earth and it was almost like a friend was speaking to you. She admitted to a few nerves but the crowd's warm and enthusiastic reception put her at ease and told us that she "was enjoying herself".

There were many highlights for me, too many to list really as it is difficult to just pick just one. However, hearing her sing 'Set Fire to the Rain', 'Someone Like You' and 'Taking It All' was absolutely stunning. I caught a few people wiping away an errand tear or two (might have been me too).

A very special moment at the end of her concert was a tribute to Amy Winehouse when she sang 'To Make You Feel My Love' by Garth Brooks. Adele and Amy attended the same school of the arts. Adele would only say that she and Amy had known each other for several years and will always have a special place in her heart.

Adele's future looks bright, she has been credited for single-handedly saving the music industry from a total meltdown as she has held the top spot on the music charts for most of 2011. I certainly hope that she will be around for a long, long time.



Adele with her band



Adele - amazing

BC Place Stadium Open House

BC Place Stadium Roof under construction, July 31, 2011


















On July 31, 2011, I visited the Open House at BC Place Stadium. In May 2010, the era of the familiar sight of the 'marshmallow' roof for BC Place came to an end when construction began on a new roof structure.

A lot of hours of planning, engineering, work and money have gone into creating this roof and new interior for BC Place. It will look like a brand-new stadium because it will be a brand-new stadium.

I was very impressed with the look of the new roof and all the modern amenities that are being added. Wider seating, cup holders, a new sound/lighting system and score board. It is a feat of engineering. Just standing on the floor of the stadium looking upwards, I had a bout of vertigo. To see the workers move in and around the roof structure was amazing.

The completion date is set for fall, the first home game of the BC Lions is September 30, 2011.

Roof taking shape as panels are being lifted into place.
The colour will fade to white in the sun.



 





The new score board, sound & lighting system. Workers were
walking around in it - no fear.

New concrete, new private suites and new, roomier seats with cupholders.



Matt and Kim

Last night on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, a musical duo called Matt and Kim performed 'Block After Block' a very catchy tune. Of course, I had to find out who this dynamic duo is. According to Wikipedia Matt and Kim are a dance punk duo residing in Brooklyn, New York City. The group was formed in 2004 and is composed of Matt Johnson (vocals/keyboards) and Kim Schifino (drums/vocals).

I thought their performance was energetic and fun (starting to feel like an old fuddy duddy).

Jimmy Fallon & Justin Timberlake - History of Rap Parts 1 & 2

Last night, Jimmy Fallon and Justin Timberlake continued their History of Rap with a second installment, it was so good. Just love when these two guys perform together, who can resist their Barry and Robin Gibb sketches on SNL?!

Enjoy!



and Part 1

The Dark Knight Rises Teaser Trailer

Source: Warner Bros.

The teaser trailer for "The Dark Knight Rises" debuted before the final installment of Harry Potter this past weekend. I was doing jumpy claps in my seat when I saw the trailer on the big screen. The audience appeared rather quiet even though all of us were adults, so not sure if people were caught off guard or what. I knew that it would show before HP so was prepared to be dazzled.

The trailer shows elements of the past two Christopher Nolan directed installments, combined with quick succession of snippets of the current movie "The Dark Knight Rises". Batman is my favourite super hero and love how Nolan has breathed new life into this franchise. I am a bit sad that this is his last Batman film, at least for now. Warner Bros., please no reboot for at least 5 years or until Chris will direct another.

Warner Bros. will not allow to embed the official teaser trailer, so click here to be dazzled.

Robert Redford Coming to Vancouver

Source: Google Images

This is great news, Variety reports that Robert Redford will direct and star in "The Company You Keep"...with Shia LaBeouf, which will be shot in Vancouver this September. I know that this is not the first time Robert has filmed a movie here, ten years ago he and Brad Pitt filmed part of the movie "Spy Game" here.

In case you are not aware, Robert Redford has been, and remains to this day, my favourite actor. Fangirling over an actor in high school who is older than your parents is not exactly cool when everyone else is going gaga over the Brat Pack, however, that did not deter me from seeing all of his films (starring in and/or directed). Yes, it was me cheering like crazy in 1981 when he won the Best Director for "Ordinary People" which also won Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor for Timothy Hutton and Best Adapted Screenplay.

My first recollection of seeing Robert Redford in a movie was on TVO Saturday Night at the Movies, which at the time was hosted by Elwy Yost (trivia: his son, Graham wrote the screenplay for "Speed"). That movie was "Little Fauss and Big Halsy" and must have had something to do with him taking off his shirt :) The second film was "The Great Waldo Pepper" which was also my first introduction to Susan Sarandon.

Anyway, I could go on and on about the many films Robert has starred in and directed. A complete listing is available at IMDB. Okay, a few of my ultra fave Robert films are (in no particular order): "The Sting", "Ordinary People", "A River Runs Through It", "All the President's Men", "The Way We Were", "Downhill Racer", "The Candidate", "The Electric Horseman", "Barefoot in the Park", "Out of Africa", "Legal Eagles", "The Natural", "Sneakers", "The Horse Whisperer" and "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid". Basically anything he has ever made or starred in.

Aside from his work in film and setting up the Sundance Institute and other philantropic pursuits - it would be so cool and my ultimate thrill to at least see him in person. Hopefully, I will have the good fortune to happen upon a set this fall :)

Stratford Festival's 'Twelfth Night' - Play On, Play On

My mom, sister and I attend at least one Stratford Festival play per year, as I live in Vancouver, this involves a bit of planning. The trip to Stratford has been part of our summer or fall ritual since the mid-1980's and is one of the highlights of our year.

This year, we had the pleasure of attending the third preview of 'Twelfth Night'. "If music be the food of love, play on" these are the words uttered by Duke Orsino and have never rang as true as in this truly musical version of Des McAnuff's 'Twelfth Night'.

'Twelfth Night' is the story of Orsino, Duke of Illyria, who pines with unrequited love for the Countess Olivia, who has shut herself up at home as a mark of mourning for her deceased brother. Meanwhile, Olivia's uncle, Sir Toby Belch, is egging on another suitor for her hand: his drinking companion Sir Andrew Aguecheek. Complications ensue when a shipwreck causes the twins Viola and Sebastian to be washed up on separate parts of the coast, each fearing the other to have been drowned. To protect herself, Viola assumes male disguise and, as the youth "Cesario", enters the Duke's service. Her disguise, however, soon proves more effective than she had bargained for. Source: Twelfth Night Stratford Festival Program

Director, Des McAnuff, explains that "The idea of 'Twelfth Night' suffuses the play: the last giddy day of holiday time before you go back to work. this is a world of play - or eating and drinking, of gambling and sportive pranks and, particularly, of music. Music abounds, not only in the multitude of songs but in the poetic imagery as ell. Mellifluous sounds drift through the air and at times Illyria seems to float in space, as if we've all entered some kind of musical dream." Source: Twelfth Night Stratford Festival Program

Music is definitely the heart of the play, influences from the last 60 years of popular music create a very original, harmonious, toe-tapping and hand-slapping play. Outstanding performances by Brian Dennehy as Sir Toby Belch, Stephen Ouimette as Sir Andrew Aguecheek, Ben Carlson as Feste, Tom Rooney as Malvolio and so many more. The chemistry between Brian Dennehy and Stephen Ouimette especially is a pleasure to watch. Ben Carlson is amazing as Feste, he balances playing the jester/fool with kernels of truth and reason when everything around the characters seems a bit out of whack. Plus that voice, what more is there to say.

I am definitely hoping that there will be soundtrack released for 'Twelfth Night' for it will be played on and on for many years to come. If you find yourself near Stratford, Ontario this year, do yourself a favour and go see 'Twelfth Night' it will not disappoint.

Summer Vacation in Ontario - June 25-July 8, 2011



Mom's Garden



My annual trek to see my family in Ontario went very well. It was a lot of fun to catch up with my two nephews who are 7 and 11, they are growing up so quickly. This year, included a day trip to Stratford to see 'Twelfth Night' which was amazing. As well, my mom, sister and nephew visited Niagara Falls/Marineland and the Butterfly Conservatory. Two weeks just flew by. Below are some pictures from my trip.



My dad's golf course-not really, parents' front 'yard'

  



Sea lion performance at Marineland

Dolphin duo

Niagara Falls, Ontario

Niagara Falls Butterfly Conservatory - one of my fave butterflies



Reflections on a Riot



The view from my window, smoke billowing
over downtown Vancouver

Many words have been written about last night's meltdown in downtown Vancouver and far more eloquent. I was not going to comment on my blog about the riot, preferring instead to focus on the positive. The actions of the few hundred hooligans, criminals really, who turned over vehicles and set them ablaze; breaking windows; committed theft and other criminal acts must be brought to task and face the consequences of their actions.

These were not Canuck or any other sport franchise's fans, these were people who had an agenda regardless of the outcome of the final Stanley Cup game to wreak havoc and cause mayhem. Unfortunately, through their actions, the city which had basked in the glow of the Olympics and post-Olympics goodwill has, once again, some work to do in rebuilding its image.

Though this group of creeps was not the same people who participated in the 1994 riot incident, the mindset is the same - mob mentality. Trying to make some sense of it all today, there is not anything anyone can say or do to change the events from June 15, however, I sincerely hope that this scene will not be repeated again here nor anywhere for that matter.

Thank you Cancucks for a great season and great big thank you to the police, fire department, health care professionals and others who assisted in helping to control the crowd.

'Wicked' a Musical

On June 4, I saw 'Wicked' at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre in Vancouver. Based on the novel by Gregory Maguire "Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West", this musical explores the themes of differences and acceptance.


Since 'Wicked' debuted on Broadway on October 30, 2003, it has consistently sold out and is still going strong. The music is amazing and the performances stellar.

The touring company of 'Wicked' that is currently performing in Vancouver is excellent. My review is posted on Ticketmaster.

Inside the theatre, the curtain which depicts a map of the Land of Oz

Stanley Cup Finals 2011

The run-up to the Stanley Cup Finals was an exciting time in Vancouver. The Canucks had been a stellar team and gone through 3 playoff series to face the Boston Bruins in the Stanley Cup Finals.

I participated in two viewing parties, the first coincided with the night that I saw the musical 'Wicked' on June 4 - I joined hundreds to watch the big screen setup at Hamilton and Granville. From my perch on the sidewalk next to the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, it was a family-friendly atmosphere - lots of families, young and old mingling and enjoying one of our first summer-like evenings. This was Game 2 and the Canucks won on home ice.


Hamilton and Georgia Streets, Vancouver - June 4, 2011



Team spirit

The atmosphere in the city was like that during the Olympics, a sense of camraderie and a sharing of a common experience, it was very positive.

Watching two minor hockey teams play during breaks between periods at the viewing party at Rogers Arena on June 8, this is what the game is about - pure, exciting and fun. Let's not let a few hooligans ruin it for all of us.

In light of the shenanigans from June 15, I would like to remember these days where there was no negativity, no nonsense - just people brought together for the love of the game. Hopefully, those responsible for the riots last night will be brought to justice but the underlying issue is why it had to happen in the first place. These people are not true fans, this behaviour needs to be addressed. They lack respect for themselves and others and must be brought to task and face responsibility for their actions.

Oh, and lest we forget, thank you Vancouver Canucks for laying it all on the line and for playing some excellent hockey!

 

Jon Hamm to Direct First Episode of 'Mad Men' Season 5



Source: People.com



Cannot wait for the new season of 'Mad Men'. After a rather lengthy negotiation, see previous posts, it came as very welcome news that viewers would be treated to the directorial debut of its star, Jon Hamm.

Filming of season 5 will begin in July and will air in March 2012 on AMC.

"The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo" - The David Fincher Treatment

When I heard that an Americanized version of "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo" was being considered, I shuddered. Having read the books by Stieg Larsson and watched the Swedish films, I just could not perceive how an English-language version could match the brilliance of the original. Then I heard David Fincher would be directing the first installment and knew that he was the right choice - remember '7even'.

If they were going to remake these films, it may as well have one of the best directors at the helm. The trailer was leaked late last week, initially it was rumoured that Sony, the parent company of Columbia, the studio producing the movie, had purposely leaked a shaky trailer-alluding to Lisbeth Salander, the lead character of what is also called The Millennium Series, who is also a hacker. Conspiracy theories aside, the trailer is kick a$$. Me likey, a lot...have watched it about a dozen times now. Christmas can't come too soon this year...

First Communion Video - May 1974

A family friend took this video (Super 8) in May 1974 on the occasion of my First Communion. It is the only video ever taken of my siblings and I as kids. My grandfather makes a brief appearance as well. So neat to see this again.

Yah! 'Mad Men' has reached a deal

Source: NJ.com

Best news in a long time, 'Mad Men' and its creator Matthew Weiner have reached a deal with AMC/Lionsgate which will see the show carry on for a guaranteed two years, with the possibility for more.

As E!Online's Kristis Dos Santos reports, Weiner says in a statement: "I want to thank all of our wonderful fans for their support. I also want to thank AMC and Lionsgate for agreeing to support the artistic freedom of myself, the cast and the crew so that we can continue to make the show exactly as we have from the beginning. I'm excited to get started on the next chapter of our story." To read more click here E!Online.

So, so happy - doing jumpy-claps and the Snoopy happy dance :) Season 5 here we come. Hopefully, the show will pick-up where it left off and start in 1966, for personal reasons, that was a very important year for productions, ahem.

'Mad Men' to be honoured at 30th annual preservation awards

Source: WatchMojo.com

On a happier note via The Hollywood Reporter , 'Mad Men' has won the organization's media award, for sparking "an explosion of interest in all things 1960s, including architecture, bolstering efforts to save greater L.A.'s rich, yet highly vulnerable, legacy of sixties resources," the group noted Monday in its awards announcement. Congratulations!

'Mad Men's' Matthew Weiner Fires Back

'Mad Men' drama offscreen, unfortunately not onscreen.  Negotiations are often times fraught with complications, even the most clear-cut negotations have their own drama. A previous post indicated that Matthew Weiner, creator of 'Mad Men' and AMC, the network that broadcasts the show and Lionsgate which produces the show were close to a deal, reportedly where Matthew Weiner was set to get $30 million for the next two years. However, that may have been premature as the latest news is that negotiations have once again hit a roadblock. Namely three roadblocks - AMC/Lionsgate are asking the following, via Nikki Finke:

1. Integrating product placement into the program
2. Cutting 2 minutes from each episode to allow more advertising
3. Eliminating/reducing two regular cast members

Matthew Weiner has now spoken out about the state of these negotiations via Huffington Post. “First of all, the number ($30 million) that’s been published is not true," Weiner said. "Second of all, I offered to have less money, to save the cast, and to leave the show in the running time that it’s supposed to be. The harder that I’ve fought for the show, the more money that they’ve offered me.”

As a huge fan of this show, I can only hope that both sides can cross the great divide and resolve their differences as soon as possible. It was confirmed that season 5 of 'Mad Men' will be delayed until 2012.

How to save $ using discount codes and coupons

Source: Google Images

As we all know money does not grow on trees, unfortunate but true. With the increasing popularity of online shopping, many services have sprung up offering electronic discount codes and virtual coupons. I may be late to the party, however I would like to share some of the sources I have found to be very helpful in saving money.

Just this morning, I used a promotional code to receive 25% off per ticket for the Stratford Festival. I stumbled upon promotional codes a few years ago and have become a regular user. It is not as simple as it sounds, trying to track down a valid promo/discount code sometimes involves a lot of web searching. Persistence pays off, literally. Just like coupons, discount codes also have expiry dates. Some codes may be restricted for certain dates, etc. in my experience, I have always been successful in applying the codes for discounts for the specific dates, etc. that I selected.

Words I use to track down codes are: promo codes; promotional codes; discount codes and searching specifically for the code you seek -ie- specific concert, airline, etc. will yield a plethora of sites which offer discounts on a myriad of products and services. It is mind boggling actually as to the huge amount of savings available. Most all established retailers participate in offering these discounts.

Here are some of the promotional code sites I have successfully used:
- http://www.tmpresale.com/
- http://www.retailmenot.com/
- http://ca.promotionalcodes.com/

New Boss(es) on 'The Office'



Source: buzzsugar.com Amy Ryan and Steve Carrel

 *Spoiler alert*
Now that 'The Office's' Michael Scott (Steve Carrel) and Holly Flax (Amy Ryan) are engaged and moving to Colorado, the search is on for a new boss. Filling in for the rest of this season is Will Ferrell, who will be a hoot I'm sure.

My suggestion to NBC is to have a revolving-door boss, similar to the device used in 'Murphy Brown' where she had a new secretary every week. Remember the episode when JFK Jr. filled in, classic episode *sigh*. I think having a new boss every week on 'The Office' would breathe some life into the show, which will be going into its 8th season.

NBC is on the right track by using Will Ferrell in the interim, he is well-known, well-liked and a skilled comedian. It may be funnier still to have well-known actors take a turn on a per episode basis. My suggestions below (in alpha order), costs and copyright may prevent them from playing the characters that originated on other shows, but would be funny:

• George Clooney (as himself or Michael Clayton)
• Bradley Cooper (as the character he played in 'Wedding Crashers' or 'The Hangover')
• Ted Danson (as the character he plays in 'Bored to Death' or as Sam Malone)
• Jon Hamm as Don Draper
• Brad Pitt (as himself or the character he played on 'Friends')
• Michael Sheen (as the character he played on '30 Rock')
• Kevin Spacey (as himself)
• Zack Galifianakis (as himself or any of the characters he has played)
• Sandra Bullock (as the character she played in 'The Proposal')
• Carol Burnett (as herself or any of the characters she has played)
• Sally Field
• Randee Heller (as a combination of the character she played on 'Mad Men' Mrs. Blankenship and Mrs. Doubtfire)
• Mary Steenburgen
• Debra Winger

The real reason why ABC has asked Chris Brown back

Those who know me, know that I have very strong opinions on many subjects - some trivial and some substantial. The story regarding Chris Brown's outburst on ABC's Good Morning America has caused me to speak out. People who choose to behave out of anger and physically harm other human beings, should be dealt with accordingly. I believe that when a man hits a woman and vice versa, he/she will do it again regardless whether they attend anger management and/or counselling and they should be held accountable for their actions.

The ineffectiveness of anger management treatment was evident on Tuesday, when Mr. Brown hurled a chair through a plate glass window at ABC headquarters in New York. Shards of glass falling to the sidewalk below, which could have injured innocent pedestrians. In his own words "I just let off, like, steam in the back. I didn’t physically hurt anyone. I didn’t try to hurt anyone. I just released the anger that I had inside me.” Doesn't sound to me like he has seen the error of his ways yet. This is not an appropriate emotional response from an adult, regardless of whether he had agreed to the talking points proposed.

The other matter that is galling to me and that no one has addressed is why ABC would ask Mr. Brown to return to their network. Robin Roberts, who had interviewed Brown on Tuesday, said on Wednesday "we wish him the absolute best and...we've extended the invitation to him and I sure hope that he takes us up on it, because we'd love to have another chat with him." So let's see, you throw a chair through a window but 'we wish you the absolute best', things that make you go hmm?

So I did a bit of my own digging and it wasn't too difficult to figure out why ABC would ask Brown back on their show. Call me a cynic, or whatever, but what it boils down to is money (as always). His new album is released by Sony Music; ABC is owned by Disney; Sony struck a deal with Disney in fall of 2010 in support of Sony's development of 3D technology in home entertainment and offered a cross-promotion of Disney's DVD releases of 'Alice in Wonderland' and 'Bolt' in 3D. I think this is a relevant piece of information to have included in reporting this story.

The powers-at-be at ABC/Disney most likely received a phone call on Tuesday morning from Sony demanding Mr. Brown get another shot at redeeming himself-day of his new album release. I'm sure these antics will not affect sales and in fact may even boost them, unfortunately. What lessons are we imparting on our children when they see this behaviour rewarded with no consequences from a network which is perceived to be family-friendly? This is probably most disturbing to me.

'Mad Men' Creator Nears Deal for Season 5-Delayed



Source:  AMCTV.com - Jon Hamm as Don Draper

For the past few weeks, I have been sending out messages into the universe regarding season 5 of my favourite drama 'Mad Men'. Today, finally an update as to the progress of negotiations between Lionsgate, AMC and creator Matthew Weiner.

It's a "good news-bad news" scenario. The good news is that the show will be back for a fifth season, the bad news is that it will probably not debut until spring 2012.

The Hollywood Reporter: "Mad Men usually begins shooting in late April or early May. And although sources say Weiner is close to a lucrative new pact with the Lionsgate, they will need at least several weeks to ramp up." To read the rest of the article, click here. At least we know that 'Mad Men' will be back for season five and that's all that matters.

On March 29, Mad Men: A Musical Companion (1960-1965) 2-disk CD and season 4 will be released on DVD. Pre-order at Amazon.com and Amazon.ca - Canadian fans seem to be getting the better end of the bargain at $14.99 for the CD set.

Supermoon, March 19, 2011



My picture, captured at 8:30pm. Canon PowerShot SX200 IS with
12x zoom-48x electronic zoom. Scene setting for nighttime with auto flash.

On Saturday night, March 19, a rare cosmic phenomenon called 'perigree moon' where the moon appears to be bigger and brighter took place.

News1130 had asked that any viewers who wished to share their pictures, send them in which I did. My picture is #4 of 10 – click ‘next’ to see the others. Some really cool shots.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt's 'Dark Knight' role revealed - Variety



Source: Cinema Blend - The Holiday Killer - J.Gordon-Levitt

Jeff Sneider, Variety, writes: "Now that Joseph Gordon-Levitt is set to reteam with his "Inception" director Christopher Nolan on "The Dark Knight Rises," insiders tell Variety that Gordon-Levitt will play Alberto Falcone, the son of Mafia chieftain Carmine Falcone, the character Tom Wilkinson played in "Batman Begins."

"Alberto Falcone, who is also known as the Holiday Killer, would bring Nolan's superhero trilogy full circle. The character fits with the helmer's stated desire for continuity and preference to pit Bruce Wayne against "realistic" villains, as opposed to cartoonish nemeses such as Mr. Freeze and Poison Ivy, whom Batman battled in Joel Schumacher's 1997 misfire "Batman and Robin." Read the rest of the story in Gordon-Levitt's 'Dark Knight' role revealed - Entertainment News, Film News, Media - Variety

In July 2010, I wrote this blog entry about Joseph at that time, the rumblings were that he may play the Riddler. Looking forward to seeing him as The Holiday Killer. Christopher Nolan has said that this will be his last Batman film as director. Here's hoping that he will change his mind.

Colin Firth to star in 'Stoker' is he really 'Mr. Darcy, Vampyre'?

It is no secret that I have a penchant for vampires, always have from a very young age. Not sure why, I saw 'Dracula' with Bela Lugosi at 8 or 9 years of age and suppose that image of him - his piercing eyes over his folded arm with cape left a lasting impression. Even used to chase my little sister around the house imitating his voice "I vant to suck your blood" and she screeching and screaming hiding under the table. Good times.

Of course, with the popularity of a certain franchise, which shall remain nameless (rhymes with nightlight) vampires have saturated the media in recent years, much to my delight (rhymes with a certain vampire franchise).

In the summer of 2009, I bought the book 'Mr. Darcy, Vampyre'. It is a sequel of sorts to Jane Austen's 'Pride and Prejudice'. Elizabeth Bennett and Mr. Darcy are married when she finds out that Mr. Darcy is actually a vampire. How could I resist! 'Pride and Prejudice' is one of my favourite books and the 1995 BBC mini-series starring Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle certainly captured my attention. I think I saw it three times that year as A&E showed it multiple times and wore out the VHS tape that it was recorded on. I purchased the DVD box set a few years ago, and on a rainy day (of which there are a few here) I will pull it out and watch it. If you have not yet had the pleasure to see the 'P&P' mini-series, really you should.

Helen Fielding who wrote the 'Bridget Jones' novels based the character Mark Darcy on Colin Firth (she is close friends with Colin and Hugh Grant, both of whom starred in the 'Bridget Jones' movies). In fact, in the sequel 'Bridget Jones - Edge of Reason' Helen writes a hilarious scene where Bridget interviews the actor Colin Firth, of course in the movie this could not be incorporated as Colin Firth played Mark Darcy (confused yet) so they did it as a DVD extra scene which is very funny especially if you have seen 'Pride and Prejudice'.

Source: Google Images - Jennifer Ehle and Colin Firth "Pride and Prejudice" 1995

Last week it was announced that Colin Firth, fresh off an Oscar Best Actor win for 'The King's Speech' (side note, Jennifer Ehle plays Lionel Logue's wife in the movie) will play a vampire in 'Stoker' also starring Nicole Kidman. Of course, this reminded me of the book 'Mr. Darcy, Vampyre'. Colin has recently said that he would be disappointed if people forgot that he played the characters Mr. Darcy and Mark Darcy so I get my ultimate wish, Colin Firth, aka the Darcy's, playing a vampire.