Another day of E3 and more impressions and annoucements of games. The big announcement of the day came from Nintendo, which announced a new Super Smash Bros. for the Wii. When the GameCube was launched way back when Smash Bros was a launch title that got rave reviews.
Other games of note:
- Super Paper Mario for GameCube - Some screenshot and info. Looks pretty good.
- Capcom Classics Mini Mix for GBA - HAs Mighty Final Fight, Bionic Commando, and Strider from the NES era.
- Gears of War for 360 - Slick looking game that make take the reign of top shooter from Halo.
- Virtual Console for Wii - Little bit with the interface for all older systems emulation software. No prices announced to download and play the clasics.
- Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass for Nintendo DS - Graphics of the Wind Waker combined with the stylus to control Link. I hope it changes so the stylus helps link but controlling him that way will get tiresome fast based on expericence with Mario 64.
- Wii-mote - Little write up on the pros and cons. Basically it will allow of innovative games but has a little curve. Like the DS with the touchpad, I get the feeling companies will try to force the using the controller in ways it doesn't have be done. In other words just because you can build motion sensitive things into the game doesn't mean you have to do it.
- Bomberland for Wii - Apparently bunch of mini-games rather then the usual blow em all up of previous games. To early in development to know for sure.
- Guitar Hero II for PS2 - Same as before but with co-op mode and more music.
- Justice League Heroes for XBox and PS2 - With JLU leaving the airwaves after this Saturday (seen the ep, drool worthy goodness), can get your fix with this button masher, beat em up, playing as different members of the Justice League.
- World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade for the PC and MAC - New lands, new racces, usual add-ons any MMORPG usual covers.
Click here for all of joystiq.com's game impressions across various platforms. Also, a report on the booth babes and some old style arcade units.
Thursday, May 11, 2006
E3 '06: Sony under Attack
Sony annoucned the new and power of the PS3, it was probably expecting much pats on the back, a bevy of celebration and a glut of consumers that can't wait to get hold of its next gen system. Instead, its apparently having to defend its two tier pricing plan and the cost of the device. Even developers are getting into the mix with Ubisoft Executive Clint Hocking not being particularily pleased with the the "me too" motion control controller that was introduced at E3. Even EA was caught off guard, unawaare of the development of the controller.
Most of the criticsm when all said and done will focus on the price tag of the PS3. It turns out that the difference between the $500 and $600 dollar system isn't just the size of the hard drive. The price difference also comes with certain bells and whistles left out. Turns out if you want to "save" $100 dollars you are giving up not only 40GB of storage but lose WiFi connectivity, memory card reader, and HDMI output. If don't have a high def or never plan to get a high def, that last bit is most likely not important. Leaving it out when annoucning the system though is a little annoying and makes you wonder what other tidbits haven't been disclosed.
Another problem is with Sony's full support of Blu-Ray format which tends to be more expensive and is part of the blame for the overall cost of the system. This is in contant to DVD-HD that Microsoft supports.
Finally, the last complaint is concern over what will be the launch titles? The better the launch titles the better the launch. Nintendo has already annoucned a new Super Mario Bros, Zelda, Metroid and other A-list titles for launch. Knowing Nintendo, not even 1/10th of the proposed launch will be released as planned. Regardless, at least you know the gameplan of Nintendo. Sony on the other hand apparently doesn't yet know what it will release. Based on a report at IGN, Sony doesn't have many titles even close to completion and if they suddenly rush to make launch date, the quality will be effected. You have to many bad quality games at launch and that could effect long term sales ot overcome that inital bad impression.
Suffice it to say, Sony has a bigger hill to climb then they probably initially thought as the 360 and potential of the Wii is stealing all their thunder.
Most of the criticsm when all said and done will focus on the price tag of the PS3. It turns out that the difference between the $500 and $600 dollar system isn't just the size of the hard drive. The price difference also comes with certain bells and whistles left out. Turns out if you want to "save" $100 dollars you are giving up not only 40GB of storage but lose WiFi connectivity, memory card reader, and HDMI output. If don't have a high def or never plan to get a high def, that last bit is most likely not important. Leaving it out when annoucning the system though is a little annoying and makes you wonder what other tidbits haven't been disclosed.
Another problem is with Sony's full support of Blu-Ray format which tends to be more expensive and is part of the blame for the overall cost of the system. This is in contant to DVD-HD that Microsoft supports.
Finally, the last complaint is concern over what will be the launch titles? The better the launch titles the better the launch. Nintendo has already annoucned a new Super Mario Bros, Zelda, Metroid and other A-list titles for launch. Knowing Nintendo, not even 1/10th of the proposed launch will be released as planned. Regardless, at least you know the gameplan of Nintendo. Sony on the other hand apparently doesn't yet know what it will release. Based on a report at IGN, Sony doesn't have many titles even close to completion and if they suddenly rush to make launch date, the quality will be effected. You have to many bad quality games at launch and that could effect long term sales ot overcome that inital bad impression.
Suffice it to say, Sony has a bigger hill to climb then they probably initially thought as the 360 and potential of the Wii is stealing all their thunder.
NSA Secret Phone Records Database and Signing Notes
USA Today has released a report that with the NSA is collecting the phone records of tens of millions of Americans that probably represents billions of call. The data has been collected since 9/11 from the big three - AT&T, Verizon, and Bellsouth (soon to be AT&T). These records include businesses, government offices and individuals not suspected of anything. The Bush Administration says they are within the law. Members of congress are less then pleased with Arlen Specter, R-PA calling for a congressional hearing. CLick here for a mini Q&A about the records collecting.
Wow, Bush just keeps setting in it over and over again. I am starting to think he is aiming for a new record in low approval. Many may claim that the records are irrelevant, after its the same records your cell carrier may send you every month with the bill. You know, what numbers you called, when and for how long. Of course, most neglect to mention that these records alone, when cross referenced with the names attached to those numbers (and you can't tell me the CIA isn't doing that), can tell lots about your day to day habits and living style. Long story short, the information is a gateway that violates the privacy regardless if the conversation itself is being recorded or not.
Its also telling that unlike the illegal tapping controversy, the republicans and democrats seem to be equally appalled about this one. Clearly they where not aware it was going on. I am willing to bet that other then yes-man Gonzalez, almost no one in the DoJ are aware of what was going on. Its strikes me as strange that Bush can claim its legal, but seems to go out of his way to avoid those questions of legality. This constant violation of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, while claiming to protect is why there is a seperation of powers.
Speaking of seperation of powers, funny thing about that. Apparently Bush has decided that he is a one man Supreme Court. Bush has claimed that he can ignore more then 750 laws he signed into law during his administration if he believes it voilates the Constituion. Irony aside considering his history, that role is exclusive to the Supreme Court. Bush apparently blieves he can ignore miltary regulations, affirmative action provisions, and other safeguards and protections.
The way Bush has done this is "signing notes" he added to nearly every bill he signs instead of vetoing the bill. Presidents have done this for years but only in an occasional fashion, not with the habitually habit of Bush. It could turn out his little scribbles have no meaning other then historical, but that of course is the problem. Do they have meaning? If so how much? How does this impact the power of the president? How does it impact the inacting and enforcing of the law? Could it be used as a legal precident in other matters? There in lies the problems, all the unanswered questions that could confuse or void the intent of the law Bush signed. Basically another mess to add to the already heaping pile.
Wow, Bush just keeps setting in it over and over again. I am starting to think he is aiming for a new record in low approval. Many may claim that the records are irrelevant, after its the same records your cell carrier may send you every month with the bill. You know, what numbers you called, when and for how long. Of course, most neglect to mention that these records alone, when cross referenced with the names attached to those numbers (and you can't tell me the CIA isn't doing that), can tell lots about your day to day habits and living style. Long story short, the information is a gateway that violates the privacy regardless if the conversation itself is being recorded or not.
Its also telling that unlike the illegal tapping controversy, the republicans and democrats seem to be equally appalled about this one. Clearly they where not aware it was going on. I am willing to bet that other then yes-man Gonzalez, almost no one in the DoJ are aware of what was going on. Its strikes me as strange that Bush can claim its legal, but seems to go out of his way to avoid those questions of legality. This constant violation of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, while claiming to protect is why there is a seperation of powers.
Speaking of seperation of powers, funny thing about that. Apparently Bush has decided that he is a one man Supreme Court. Bush has claimed that he can ignore more then 750 laws he signed into law during his administration if he believes it voilates the Constituion. Irony aside considering his history, that role is exclusive to the Supreme Court. Bush apparently blieves he can ignore miltary regulations, affirmative action provisions, and other safeguards and protections.
The way Bush has done this is "signing notes" he added to nearly every bill he signs instead of vetoing the bill. Presidents have done this for years but only in an occasional fashion, not with the habitually habit of Bush. It could turn out his little scribbles have no meaning other then historical, but that of course is the problem. Do they have meaning? If so how much? How does this impact the power of the president? How does it impact the inacting and enforcing of the law? Could it be used as a legal precident in other matters? There in lies the problems, all the unanswered questions that could confuse or void the intent of the law Bush signed. Basically another mess to add to the already heaping pile.
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
E3 '06: Games
Lots of games info now flowing out of E3 now that the name console presentations are done. The highlights that interest me anyway:
- 23 new DS games announced.
- Super Paper Mario for GameCube - Peach and Bowser now playable. Trailer here. Screenshots here.
- Star Fox for the DS - Apparently the touch pad is used to draw routes for teammates to take and attack from. So a pseudo-computer based co-op play.
- Sonic Wild Fire for Wii - Apparently very fast and potentially a hit
- Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess for the Wii - Innovative use of the Wi-mote could make this a new landmark in the Zelda series.
- Golden Axe for PS3 and 360 - The return of the 8-bit title for the next gen consoles. Probably will be the usual beat em up with purty new graphics.
- God of War 2 for the PS2 - The PS2 is not dead yet and this title proves it.
- Super Mario Galaxy for the Wii - Mix Super Mario 64 style play, big round globes, usual Mario fun and the Wii-mote for thie probably must have title.
- Metroid Prime 3: Corruption - Just like the other Prime titles only now have the Wii-mote to make aiming and shooting funner.
- Blue Dragon for the 360 - Next gen console plus dragons. Has to be at least interesting.
- Metal Gear Solid 4 for PS3 - Click link for little info about title and Silent Hill PSP title.
Zapper Attachment for Wii - Basically makes the Wii-mote look like a zapper gun, probably very useful for Metroid Prime 3 Hunters.
- 23 new DS games announced.
- Super Paper Mario for GameCube - Peach and Bowser now playable. Trailer here. Screenshots here.
- Star Fox for the DS - Apparently the touch pad is used to draw routes for teammates to take and attack from. So a pseudo-computer based co-op play.
- Sonic Wild Fire for Wii - Apparently very fast and potentially a hit
- Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess for the Wii - Innovative use of the Wi-mote could make this a new landmark in the Zelda series.
- Golden Axe for PS3 and 360 - The return of the 8-bit title for the next gen consoles. Probably will be the usual beat em up with purty new graphics.
- God of War 2 for the PS2 - The PS2 is not dead yet and this title proves it.
- Super Mario Galaxy for the Wii - Mix Super Mario 64 style play, big round globes, usual Mario fun and the Wii-mote for thie probably must have title.
- Metroid Prime 3: Corruption - Just like the other Prime titles only now have the Wii-mote to make aiming and shooting funner.
- Blue Dragon for the 360 - Next gen console plus dragons. Has to be at least interesting.
- Metal Gear Solid 4 for PS3 - Click link for little info about title and Silent Hill PSP title.
Zapper Attachment for Wii - Basically makes the Wii-mote look like a zapper gun, probably very useful for Metroid Prime 3 Hunters.
Tuesday, May 09, 2006
E3 '06: Microsoft Press Conference
Microsoft did its presentation also today. It announced its upcoming game slate, new accessories for the 360 and basically a desire to take advantage of the lead that Nintendo and Sony have granted.
Highlights:
- XBox Live arcade apparently has some arcade games of yesteryears and has added Lumines Live to the list.
- 2nd wave titles: Games of War, Halo 3, Prey, Superman Returns, 99 Nights, Fables 2, Dead or Alive XTreme 2, and Grand Theft Auto IV (release 10/16/07) and usual EA sports games.
- New accessories: wireless wheel controller, wireless headset, XBox Live Vision Camera and HD DVD player.
- Rockstar will produce exclusive episodic content for XBox.
- Also announced some games will be cross platformed for the PC and apparently the graphically speaking, the different between console and PC is starting to evaporate.
- Live Anywhere - Apparently some method to provide cross-platform possibilities where your progress, stats, gameplay etc is shared. Example would be playing a game on the 360 and then continue playing the game on your cell. Its based upon Vista and so more details are irrelevent until 2007.
The conference notes are here.
E3 '06: Nintendo Press Conference
Nintendo announced their slate of Wii and DS things for the upcoming year. The goal is to stroke the fires of interests and passion. Based on what I am reading, I have more then a little concern that this might just be Nintendo's last hurrah in the console market. I pray I am wrong.
The highlights:
- Release date is Q4 2006, ie November or December.
- Price: Didn't say. Which either means its high and they don't want to risk losing any momentum at the start of E3, or they think they can make the price cheaper. Hopefully the latter.
- Launch games: Metroid Prime 3, Dragon Quest Swords, Super Mario Galaxy, Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess and many more - Considering Nintendo's history on release dates, believe it only when you see it.
- Graphics don't compete with PS3 and 360
- Controller has built-in speaker and rumble
- Final Fantasy III, Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass and Yoshi 2 is coming for DS - not sure but think this would be the first time FFIII has been stateside.
- If don't like the Wii-mote then there is also the classic controller which looks like a modified version of the Super NES controller with an iPod feel. See above.
Blow by blow of the conference is here.
Hands On with Wii - Basically fun with a small learning curve.
Beatles Lose Apple Fight but War continues
The Beatles lost round 1 of a court case against Apple Computers for copyright enfringment. Its turns out that the Beatles library is owned by a company called Apple Corp, which is owned by the Beatles. Got that? Anyway, since Apple Computers is now kindof sorta in the music business, the Beatles feel infringed upon. Afterall, don't you think Apple Corp when you think Beatles?
The judge basically said your off your rocker, pay Apple Computers courts costs and be on your merry way. Of course the Beatles don't like this answer and will appeal. Not sure what the goal is but bet its trying to get a piece of the iTunes pie. Greed will out and all that.
Random computer link:
Top 10 XP Tips
Fresh Devices
The judge basically said your off your rocker, pay Apple Computers courts costs and be on your merry way. Of course the Beatles don't like this answer and will appeal. Not sure what the goal is but bet its trying to get a piece of the iTunes pie. Greed will out and all that.
Random computer link:
Top 10 XP Tips
Fresh Devices
Monday, May 08, 2006
E3 '06: Sony Press Conference
Sony has just finished their pre-show conference for E3 announcing some of the games and plans for the Playstation 3. The main highlights:
- Playstation 3 prices 20gig is $500 and 60gig is $600
- release date is around november 17 in the US, Nov 11th in Japan.
- Controller is bluetooth wireless and supports motion sensing technology in the usual Duel Shock controller package.
- Final Fantasy XIII is coming for PS3 (most likely sometime late 2007)
- games are the usual shoot em up, beat em up, drive and play sports variety. IE PS's stock and trade.
- the PSP will have an emulator added so can download and play orginial playstation games (the cost of a game was unspecified). PSP future updates will include RSS video, Flash and VoIP.
Other E3 rumor suggests that Nintendo Wii is going to be $250 and also released in November. Basically XBox has about 6 months to build as strong a stranglehold in the industry it can (and will probably fail to do). Blow by blow of the conference with some screenshots here.
E3 Begins.
E3, the Electronic Entertainment Expo has begun. The expo is basically the place well all the video game companies and announce their new toys and titles for the next year.
Since this is the year of the next gen console, the news should be big with Sony and Nintendo finally giving the public the details they need when deciding their next-gen purchase.
The news will be fast and furious but below are a few good sites to get your news.
Engadget
Joystiq
GameSpot
GameDaily
Gaming-Age
E3 Insider
A little new to wet the appetite.
Square Enix has announced that Final Fantasy XIII will be lease for the Playstation 3. Final Fantasy: ring of Fates is coming for the DS and Final Fantasy: Crystal Bearers for the Wii. The last two titles are based off of the Crystal Chronicles FF franchise. Full press conference here.
2006 Summer Movie Predictions
Time to guess what will make moolah this summer and what will not. These are all guesses and if I turn out to be right...I claim the hard work and dedication to achieve accuracy. Money is domestic only not overseas. Money makers are not so much "greatest weekend ever!!!" and "#1 comedy/drama on a fourth sunday in May!" and more of a cost (movie + advertisement) - sells = moolah type of deal.
The money makers, most of which are gimme's.
- Superman (350 million) - The ticket of the summer. Everyone and their mother will go see this. Word of mouth and repeat sells will drive this movie into the number movie of the summer easy. I expect a 110 million opening weekend.
- X-Men: The Last Stand (250 million) - This will be the other ticket of the summer and get lots o repeat business, good for the money machine.
- Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest (225 million) - Its like printing money.
- The Da Vinci Code (215 million) - Based on huge book, Tom Hanks, and looks interesting as heck. Don't see much repeat business though.
- Cars (180 million) - Its going to be considered a miss by Pixar standards. I don't think it will have the repeat buys and solid word of mouth that previous Pixar films had.
- Click (150 million) - Its creative looking, it might actually have heart, the teaser gives the entire story away and its has Kate Beckinsale looking hotterific.
- Over The Hedge (135 million) - Looks cute as heck and might even entertain better then the Wild did.
Break-even (make enough of its money back to not be a complete failure)
- Mission Impossible 3 (125 million) - Tom Cruise will hurt it but not as much as people think, DVDs though is where this will get back its cost.
- Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift (100 million) - Its fast and the furious, high on action, low on personality, story, and special effects.
- Talladega Nights (80 million) - "Made by the team of Weatherman" should be a red flag about how mcuh this movie will suck. The NASCAR crowd will see it opening weekend, and thats about it.
- Snakes on a Plane (75 million) - Everyone says sleeper hit. I say break-even. Even with the man Samuel L Jackson and a bevy of internet support, I think it will be the Serenity of 2006.
- Strangers with Candy (35 million) - Based on a comedy central show about a creepy ugly women. Its a cheap movie so its doesn't take much to break even.
- Clerk II (35 million) - Technically a failure but because its cheap to make, its would take a really poor showing to actually loose money. Their are enough View-Askewverse fans to keep it even.
The money loosers.- Poseidon (75 million) - Retread of a tired story that was recently horrible done on TV
- Miami Vice (90 million) - Based on the slick 80s show and probably re-imagined for the egos of Colin Farrell and Jamie Foxx. Lots of things go boom and you will take a snooze.
- My Super Ex-Girlfriend (65 million) - Superhero and love never mixes well. With Uma "depends on lightning to look good" Thurman, there really isn't a hook to make this movie rise above the rest of the movie noise.
- The Break-Up (60 million) - Vince Vaugn does his thing and does it well, but Jennifer Aniston for all her sex appear isn't nearly as good as she and Hollywood thinks she is. Get a second coming on DVD though.
- A Scanner Darkly (60 million) - Curious looking film that will only get sells from comic fans, the curious and the bored.
- World Trade Center (55 million) - United 93 shows that US just isn't ready for 9/11 films. That combines with the always touchy and conspiracy prone Oliver Stone, and many will take a pass.
- The Omen (50 million) - Frankly its being sold horribly and interest seems to be in the non-existant range. Plus its the Omen, a crappy movie the first time it was made and in today's horror = gore or atmosphere but no story, well the signs are bad.
- DOA: Dead or Alive (50 million) - Based on a video game and the track record or those is basically 0 for 1000.
- The Devil Wears Prada (45 million) - One of those Wha? movies for everyone but those that read the book. The cast will get some feet in the door and thats about it.
- Nacho Libre (40 million) - Jack Black may be in it but a stinker is a stinker. This isn't the sleeper many are predicting.
- Garfield's A Tale of Two Kitties (20 million) - The first stunk, this will stink worse. But the goal is just to make some moolah in theatres to help make even more moolah on DVD. The producers will be pleased with any ticket sells.
The suprises.
- Monster House (150 million) - I don't think this movie is on most people's radar but by the time the summer is done most people will have found out about this film and be suprised.
- Just My Luck (80 million) - Lindsay Lohen looking hot and back in her comfort zone. Simple cheap movie that will get the tweens in the seats.
Not to many suprises this year but after the poor showing in theatres last years, studios are going to play it safe as much as possible. The rest is up to the viewing public. Don't feel sad though, with DVD sales and the growing overseas market, even a "failure" can still be profitable (assuming the studios didn't screw themselves on backend points with the stars.)
The money makers, most of which are gimme's.
- Superman (350 million) - The ticket of the summer. Everyone and their mother will go see this. Word of mouth and repeat sells will drive this movie into the number movie of the summer easy. I expect a 110 million opening weekend.
- X-Men: The Last Stand (250 million) - This will be the other ticket of the summer and get lots o repeat business, good for the money machine.
- Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest (225 million) - Its like printing money.
- The Da Vinci Code (215 million) - Based on huge book, Tom Hanks, and looks interesting as heck. Don't see much repeat business though.
- Cars (180 million) - Its going to be considered a miss by Pixar standards. I don't think it will have the repeat buys and solid word of mouth that previous Pixar films had.
- Click (150 million) - Its creative looking, it might actually have heart, the teaser gives the entire story away and its has Kate Beckinsale looking hotterific.
- Over The Hedge (135 million) - Looks cute as heck and might even entertain better then the Wild did.
Break-even (make enough of its money back to not be a complete failure)
- Mission Impossible 3 (125 million) - Tom Cruise will hurt it but not as much as people think, DVDs though is where this will get back its cost.
- Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift (100 million) - Its fast and the furious, high on action, low on personality, story, and special effects.
- Talladega Nights (80 million) - "Made by the team of Weatherman" should be a red flag about how mcuh this movie will suck. The NASCAR crowd will see it opening weekend, and thats about it.
- Snakes on a Plane (75 million) - Everyone says sleeper hit. I say break-even. Even with the man Samuel L Jackson and a bevy of internet support, I think it will be the Serenity of 2006.
- Strangers with Candy (35 million) - Based on a comedy central show about a creepy ugly women. Its a cheap movie so its doesn't take much to break even.
- Clerk II (35 million) - Technically a failure but because its cheap to make, its would take a really poor showing to actually loose money. Their are enough View-Askewverse fans to keep it even.
The money loosers.- Poseidon (75 million) - Retread of a tired story that was recently horrible done on TV
- Miami Vice (90 million) - Based on the slick 80s show and probably re-imagined for the egos of Colin Farrell and Jamie Foxx. Lots of things go boom and you will take a snooze.
- My Super Ex-Girlfriend (65 million) - Superhero and love never mixes well. With Uma "depends on lightning to look good" Thurman, there really isn't a hook to make this movie rise above the rest of the movie noise.
- The Break-Up (60 million) - Vince Vaugn does his thing and does it well, but Jennifer Aniston for all her sex appear isn't nearly as good as she and Hollywood thinks she is. Get a second coming on DVD though.
- A Scanner Darkly (60 million) - Curious looking film that will only get sells from comic fans, the curious and the bored.
- World Trade Center (55 million) - United 93 shows that US just isn't ready for 9/11 films. That combines with the always touchy and conspiracy prone Oliver Stone, and many will take a pass.
- The Omen (50 million) - Frankly its being sold horribly and interest seems to be in the non-existant range. Plus its the Omen, a crappy movie the first time it was made and in today's horror = gore or atmosphere but no story, well the signs are bad.
- DOA: Dead or Alive (50 million) - Based on a video game and the track record or those is basically 0 for 1000.
- The Devil Wears Prada (45 million) - One of those Wha? movies for everyone but those that read the book. The cast will get some feet in the door and thats about it.
- Nacho Libre (40 million) - Jack Black may be in it but a stinker is a stinker. This isn't the sleeper many are predicting.
- Garfield's A Tale of Two Kitties (20 million) - The first stunk, this will stink worse. But the goal is just to make some moolah in theatres to help make even more moolah on DVD. The producers will be pleased with any ticket sells.
The suprises.
- Monster House (150 million) - I don't think this movie is on most people's radar but by the time the summer is done most people will have found out about this film and be suprised.
- Just My Luck (80 million) - Lindsay Lohen looking hot and back in her comfort zone. Simple cheap movie that will get the tweens in the seats.
Not to many suprises this year but after the poor showing in theatres last years, studios are going to play it safe as much as possible. The rest is up to the viewing public. Don't feel sad though, with DVD sales and the growing overseas market, even a "failure" can still be profitable (assuming the studios didn't screw themselves on backend points with the stars.)
Sunday, May 07, 2006
4th Amendment and General Hayden
Possible new CIA head is General Hayden. He is a huge fan of the wiretap policy of the administration...and apparently doesn't know what the fourth amendment says.
Landay: "...the Fourth Amendment of the United States Constitution specifies that you must have probable cause to violate an American's right against unreasonable searches and seizures..."
Gen. Hayden: "No, actually - the Fourth Amendment actually protects all of us against unreasonable search and seizure."
Landay: "But the --"
Gen. Hayden: "That's what it says."
Landay: "The legal measure is probable cause, it says."
Gen. Hayden: "The Amendment says: unreasonable search and seizure."
Landay: "But does it not say 'probable cause'?"
Gen. Hayden [exasperated, scowling]: "No! The Amendment says unreasonable search and seizure."
Landay: "The legal standard is probable cause, General -- "
Gen. Hayden [indignant]: "Just to be very clear ... mmkay... and believe me, if there's any Amendment to the Constitution that employees of the National Security Agency are familiar with, it's the Fourth. Alright? And it is a reasonableness standard in the Fourth Amendment. The constitutional standard is 'reasonable'" ( h/t Dale)
What the fourth says:
To quote the Fourth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States in its entirety, the one the general and the NSA folks are so familiar with and know is about reasonableness and not about probable cause, quote, "The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no warrants issue, but upon probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized."
Sadly, because of the cowardice of the republican party, the guy would pass easily. On bright side, at least his background indicates he might actually have the background to do the job but that doesn't mean he deserves the postion.
Picture from cnn.com
McIntrye in the Morning Apologizes
Something pretty amazing has occured in this age of follow your party no matter what act of stupidity or damage it does. A republican apolgizes. Doug McIntyre, radio host on Talk Radio 790 KABC in New York (i think) apolgizes for voting for Bush in 2000. Basically he has seen the light and in his apology lists all the damage that Bush has done. If look at the line-up on KABC, its clearly a conservative station so this is actually pretty amazing. Make no mistake though, he hold democrats to the fire for their total lack of leadership and inability to get their act together.
The essay is worth reading and highly recommend.
Some highlights:
Tragically, the Democrats have allowed crackpots, leftists and demagogic cowards to snipe from the sidelines while taking no responsibility for anything.
Its sad, with all the mistakes, corruption and cronyism of the Bush and Republican era, this is prime opportunity for Democrats to step up to the plate. Instead they cower in the dugout.
The essay is worth reading and highly recommend.
Some highlights:
But in the months and years since shock and awe I have been shocked repeatedly by a consistent litany of excuses, alibis, double-talk, inaccuracies, bogus predictions, and flat out lies. I have watched as the President and his administration changed the goals, redefined the reasons for going into Iraq, and fumbled the good will of the world and the focus necessary to catch the real killers of September 11th.
I have watched the President say the commanders on the ground will make the battlefield decisions, and the war won’t be run from Washington. Yet, politics has consistently determined what the troops can and can’t do on the ground and any commander who did not go along with the administration was sacked, and in some cases, maligned.
Katrina, Harriet Myers, The Dubai Port Deal, skyrocketing gas prices, shrinking wages for working people, staggering debt, astronomical foreign debt, outsourcing, open borders, contempt for the opinion of the American people, the war on science, media manipulation, faith based initives, a cavalier attitude toward fundamental freedoms-- this President has run the most arrogant and out-of-touch administration in my lifetime, perhaps, in any American’s lifetime.
Tragically, the Democrats have allowed crackpots, leftists and demagogic cowards to snipe from the sidelines while taking no responsibility for anything.
Its sad, with all the mistakes, corruption and cronyism of the Bush and Republican era, this is prime opportunity for Democrats to step up to the plate. Instead they cower in the dugout.
Friday, May 05, 2006
Porter Goss, CIA Chief Resign
After only a year and a half on the job, Porter Goss resigned, effective immediatly, as the CIA chief. Not much to say except something stinks to high hell about this. TalkingPointsMemo suggests it has something to do with "HookerGate" that is currently being investigated. Apparently Hookergate is contracters using hookers and parties over at Watergate to get defense contractors. You know basically what everyone assumes is occuring but noone talks about. Since Republicans are the only ones worth wining and dining, its can't be good for the dogpile of problems they are already dealing with. Not a dig, but you are not going to wine and dine a democrat that can barely scratch his ass without permission from a republican. This should be a story worth watching once the mainstream media gets wind, usually about 3 days behind the online media nowadays.
DS Lite Release: June 11th for $129.99
Nintendo has finally confirmed a release date for the Nintendo DS Lite in North America. It arrives in white, for existing prices of $129.99. This probably means that Nintendo will phase out the production of the older version since the prices are identical. There are other colors available in Japan, so if want some variety, history shows wait about three months.
Un-edited Star Wars Trilogy on DVD
Lucasfilms has announced that for a limited time only, they will release the unaltered, pre-1997 versions of Star Wars on DVD from September 12th to December 31st. Each movie will be a two disc set containing the orginial film and the new editions developed in the 2004.
Good news, except for the fact I have a set of the 2004 series that will quickly become redundant. Really wish the studios would get this right the first time because I am starting to stop buying DVDs on the assumption the "new and improved" version will get released at a later date. Crap like this only re-enforces the notion.
Good news, except for the fact I have a set of the 2004 series that will quickly become redundant. Really wish the studios would get this right the first time because I am starting to stop buying DVDs on the assumption the "new and improved" version will get released at a later date. Crap like this only re-enforces the notion.
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
Superman Returns Trailer
Looks good. Lex may be a little over the top. Hopefully the bits don't represent the whole. Everyone looks to young considering its playing off Superman I and II mythology. Not saying 20 years older, but five years older as established by the movie plot. Instead it looks like every lost about 10 years. Oh well. Minor quibbles. Main thing is the look and the flying looking sweet.
Apple linky.
Apple linky.
Monday, May 01, 2006
Stephen Colbert at White House Correspondents Dinner
Stephen Colbert of Comedy Central's "The Colbert Report" was a guest speakers at Saturday's White House Correspondents Dinner. The dinner is basically a way for the rich and powerful politicians to rub elbows with the rich and famous and the press.
The presentation is usually mostly humorous, a kind of tepid roast of the sitting President. This year Bush did a pretty funny bit using a person impersonating him as his inner thoughts. The real moment of the show was at the end though.
Stephen Colbert basically ripped the President and the press corp a new one with his jokes. The move was simply ballsy and amazing to view. I still can't believe he did that. Historically the comedian's job is to cow tow to his audience, a little gotcha humor but mostly keep it safe. Not Colbert. He was noone near safe. He held very little back.
"Listen, let's review the rules. Here's how it works: the president makes decisions. He's the decider. The press secretary announces those decisions, and you people of the press type those decisions down. Make, announce, type. Put them through a spell check and go home. Get to know your family again. Make love to your wife. Write that novel you got kicking around in your head. You know, the one about the intrepid Washington reporter with the courage to stand up to the administration. You know -- fiction." That is just one example of many scathing jokes that was met with tepid responses from the audience. No suprise, the press is notoriousily thin skinned when the spotlight of imcompetence or humor is shined on them.
An interesting aspect of this whole thing is that the press then chose to report very little about this event. From reading press reports you almost wouldn't even be aware that Colbert was the comedic guest of the event. Its like they want to pretend he didn't attend. This of course is the press doing what they do best, the omission of facts. Can't say you lied if you didn't report what occured.
The blogosphere of course can't be fooled. What they will not report, the bloggers of the will happily do for them. Below is a few links including video. Especially note how much you may laugh and how its the opposite of how the audience responded. Sadly I think Colbert will take a hit as the press's usually response to insult is to deny access, which sound vaguely familiar doesn't it?
YouTube.com videos: part 1, part 2, part 3
C-Span's entire video of event is here.
ABCNew.com video, starts with the President's bit, actually worth watching is here.
Transcript is here.
Blogs and other links about the event:
Dan Froomlin, ABCNews
Whiskey Bar
MediaBistro
Crooks and Liars
PublicEye
Editor & Publisher
www.thankyoustephencolbert.org - Pass along your thank you for his routine.
The presentation is usually mostly humorous, a kind of tepid roast of the sitting President. This year Bush did a pretty funny bit using a person impersonating him as his inner thoughts. The real moment of the show was at the end though.
Stephen Colbert basically ripped the President and the press corp a new one with his jokes. The move was simply ballsy and amazing to view. I still can't believe he did that. Historically the comedian's job is to cow tow to his audience, a little gotcha humor but mostly keep it safe. Not Colbert. He was noone near safe. He held very little back.
"Listen, let's review the rules. Here's how it works: the president makes decisions. He's the decider. The press secretary announces those decisions, and you people of the press type those decisions down. Make, announce, type. Put them through a spell check and go home. Get to know your family again. Make love to your wife. Write that novel you got kicking around in your head. You know, the one about the intrepid Washington reporter with the courage to stand up to the administration. You know -- fiction." That is just one example of many scathing jokes that was met with tepid responses from the audience. No suprise, the press is notoriousily thin skinned when the spotlight of imcompetence or humor is shined on them.
An interesting aspect of this whole thing is that the press then chose to report very little about this event. From reading press reports you almost wouldn't even be aware that Colbert was the comedic guest of the event. Its like they want to pretend he didn't attend. This of course is the press doing what they do best, the omission of facts. Can't say you lied if you didn't report what occured.
The blogosphere of course can't be fooled. What they will not report, the bloggers of the will happily do for them. Below is a few links including video. Especially note how much you may laugh and how its the opposite of how the audience responded. Sadly I think Colbert will take a hit as the press's usually response to insult is to deny access, which sound vaguely familiar doesn't it?
YouTube.com videos: part 1, part 2, part 3
C-Span's entire video of event is here.
ABCNew.com video, starts with the President's bit, actually worth watching is here.
Transcript is here.
Blogs and other links about the event:
Dan Froomlin, ABCNews
Whiskey Bar
MediaBistro
Crooks and Liars
PublicEye
Editor & Publisher
www.thankyoustephencolbert.org - Pass along your thank you for his routine.
Microsoft loses $32 billion in one day
Microsoft's market value took a $32 billion nose dive Friday. You may thing yes! Did they lose money because of bad products? Bad management? Crappy sales? Profits not meet expectations? Nope, sadly none are the reasons.
According to the Seattle Times:
Basically Microsoft took this hit because they decided to invest to gain profits in the long term rather then the short term. God forbid they think about the future beyond the next quarter. This is a solid example why US businesses are falling apart. Microsoft can take this hit, but what about companies that can't? This is why layoffs are always the quick temp fix. Why canceling projects, short term ideas are employed. The alternative is to risk losing more value in the market then the action is worth. Such a "risk" could then doom a company. This is the sad state of US business policies. Our national ADD and impatience for results now rather then later. This is why we are losing ground to China and India and why are days as a "superpower" are going to end. To be punished for thinking long term is hubris beyond all repair and the nation will pay for it.
According to the Seattle Times:
Microsoft's stock closed at $24.15, down $3.10 a share, or 11.4 percent, after the Redmond software company indicated plans Thursday to invest more in its businesses — including a battle for the Internet with Google and Yahoo! — at the expense of higher short-term profits.
Basically Microsoft took this hit because they decided to invest to gain profits in the long term rather then the short term. God forbid they think about the future beyond the next quarter. This is a solid example why US businesses are falling apart. Microsoft can take this hit, but what about companies that can't? This is why layoffs are always the quick temp fix. Why canceling projects, short term ideas are employed. The alternative is to risk losing more value in the market then the action is worth. Such a "risk" could then doom a company. This is the sad state of US business policies. Our national ADD and impatience for results now rather then later. This is why we are losing ground to China and India and why are days as a "superpower" are going to end. To be punished for thinking long term is hubris beyond all repair and the nation will pay for it.
Nintendo Revolution Now Named Wii
Nintendo announced today the official name of its next gen console. Its now called the Wii, pronouced like "we" or "whee". The name Revolution was also a code name for the project but most, including me, assumed that would become its final name as thats been the tendancy in the past. Plus its good name. The online sites have been having a field day with the name change announcement. Nintendo stance is the name reflects the fun and to emphasis "that the console is for everyone."
My initial reaction was the sneer. After much thought, my reaction is to ask "why?". My final reaction is to simply shake my head in confusion and be saddened by this PR blunder that Nintendo isn't even aware of yet. Can you imagine going into a store and asking "Got any Wii games in?" I just feel stupid thinking about it.
E3 starts May ninth I think. That will tell us if "Wii" will be worth buying, crappy name or not.
Sunday, April 30, 2006
United 93
As the name suggests, this movie is about a telling of events of United Airlines Flight 93 that crashed in Pennsylvania during the horrible events of September 11, 2001. The movie begins with the people boarding the flight and ends...well the only way such a story can end.
This was a hard movie to get through. Its actually painful to watch. You know what going to happen, and so you wait for each hammer to fall with increasing tension and dread. This does not mean the movie is bad. It just means the story is told that well that even though you know whats coming, you watch anyway. You watch this horror unfold almost all over again and it hurts.
The agenda of this movie can be the agenda you choose to see and insert into it. Really though. the only agenda this movie has is to tell a story of events on United 93 with the other events of 9/11 playing into it since they are directily tied together. The director and writer, Paul Greengrass weaves this story together very well with events on the ground with events in the air.
When this movie ended, literally more then half the audience was crying and the other half was on the verge. This movies hurts to watch, but it is worth seeing.
This was a hard movie to get through. Its actually painful to watch. You know what going to happen, and so you wait for each hammer to fall with increasing tension and dread. This does not mean the movie is bad. It just means the story is told that well that even though you know whats coming, you watch anyway. You watch this horror unfold almost all over again and it hurts.
The agenda of this movie can be the agenda you choose to see and insert into it. Really though. the only agenda this movie has is to tell a story of events on United 93 with the other events of 9/11 playing into it since they are directily tied together. The director and writer, Paul Greengrass weaves this story together very well with events on the ground with events in the air.
When this movie ended, literally more then half the audience was crying and the other half was on the verge. This movies hurts to watch, but it is worth seeing.
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Tony Snow new White House Press Secretary
The White House announced today that Tony Snow will be the new press secretary, replacing Scott McClellan. Give him credit but Snow is sacrifing his radio talk show and his Fox News TV show to take the job. It does provide excellent training ground in doing the professional spin that the job requires. Sadly though this is just another case of Bush trading yes-men. To be fair, being WH spokesman, yes-man is job requirement.
A Little Political Humor
Just a touch of humor to bring a smile (or frown) to your face.
Air Force One Graffiti - A video of Air Force One being tagged with statement "Still Free". Article about it here.
Pizza Palace - A look at the ordering pizza in the year 2010.
Air Force One Graffiti - A video of Air Force One being tagged with statement "Still Free". Article about it here.
Pizza Palace - A look at the ordering pizza in the year 2010.
Monday, April 24, 2006
McClellan retires, Bush at 33% approval
Despite a so-so successful visit from China prime minister, Bush just can't seem to catch a break. Scott McClellan, dissembler in chief, has decided to call it quits as Press Secretary. Its so bad even FoxNews.com of all places is reporting on the new low in approval rating for Bush. He now sits at 33%. Finally people are waking up to the consistent failure that is Bush. Took em long enough.
Saturday, April 22, 2006
Gas $75 a barrel, $3 at the pump, but some good news
Oil hits a record high with $75 barrel for no other reason then because the oil cartels wish it so. Currently gas is $3 a gallon and will probably soon rise to about $3.20, all before the usual summer vacation markup! I am sure Bush and Cheney are quite happy right now as their stock dividends etc will be quite nice.
In the good news, if you love the iPod, like me, and use iTunes to buy music, Steve Jobs managed to hold the line and keep prices at $.99 a song. The RIAA, of course, was doing their best to raise the price to maximize profits while complaining how broke they are.
Also, JJ Abrams has apparently been tapped to direct the next Star Trek movie. Hopefully it true and not just a rumor that has spread all over the place. If don't know who he is, he is the creator of Felicity, Lost, Alias, and directed Mission Impossible III. Hopefully, this will mean the next movie will get a decent budget as probably one of the biggest obstacles has been the penny pinching. Epic space battles don't come cheap and anyone worth their salt knows that a Star Trek movie needs at least one.
In the good news, if you love the iPod, like me, and use iTunes to buy music, Steve Jobs managed to hold the line and keep prices at $.99 a song. The RIAA, of course, was doing their best to raise the price to maximize profits while complaining how broke they are.
Also, JJ Abrams has apparently been tapped to direct the next Star Trek movie. Hopefully it true and not just a rumor that has spread all over the place. If don't know who he is, he is the creator of Felicity, Lost, Alias, and directed Mission Impossible III. Hopefully, this will mean the next movie will get a decent budget as probably one of the biggest obstacles has been the penny pinching. Epic space battles don't come cheap and anyone worth their salt knows that a Star Trek movie needs at least one.
Monday, April 17, 2006
Michelle Malkin crosses the line #123543
Michelle Malkin is a known media darling for the Republican party. To her, "any means necessary" is the phrase to employ when defending her Republican heroes against their critics. She worships at the alter of Bush so you can imagine her reaction to anything that is against his precious holy war in Iraq. This week in a blog posting called "SEDITIOUS SANTA CRUZ VS. AMERICA", in response to a group called Students Against War (SAW) on the Santa Cruz Campus, she decided to post the personal phone numbers of the leaders of the campus group. Of course the expected death threats followed, which is always going to occur on any decisive issue.
Even more amazing then the gall for this women to give out personal information on students is that she has the nerve to say "As for SAW, my message is this: You are responsible for your individual actions. Other individuals are responsible for theirs. Grow up and take responsibility."
This from a person that does everything to dodge responsibility for anything she has said or done, whose career is about making excuses for others not living up to their responsibilities. Even more hypocritical, you can't exactly give Michelle a call when you disagree with her statements. You think Michelle would have the balls to back up her own words with action. She takes them to task for their views and wants people to call those students, you would think she would offer up her home phone number so those of us that don't agree with her can give her our opinions.
However, we are talking about a mouthpiece of the republican parties so hypocrasy is a given.
Even more amazing then the gall for this women to give out personal information on students is that she has the nerve to say "As for SAW, my message is this: You are responsible for your individual actions. Other individuals are responsible for theirs. Grow up and take responsibility."
This from a person that does everything to dodge responsibility for anything she has said or done, whose career is about making excuses for others not living up to their responsibilities. Even more hypocritical, you can't exactly give Michelle a call when you disagree with her statements. You think Michelle would have the balls to back up her own words with action. She takes them to task for their views and wants people to call those students, you would think she would offer up her home phone number so those of us that don't agree with her can give her our opinions.
However, we are talking about a mouthpiece of the republican parties so hypocrasy is a given.
TV network vs FCC
Finally, after be kicked around over and over and over again, the TV network have finally decided they have had enough of the high handedness of the FCC. ABC, NBC, CBS, Fox and affilates have filed notices of appeal in federal courts against the various high fines the FCC has been handing down such as $3.6 million for an episode of "Without a Trace."
The networks and affiliate groups, representing more than 800 individual stations, issued a rare joint statement Friday calling the FCC ruling "unconstitutional and inconsistent with two decades of previous FCC decisions.
"In filing these court appeals we are seeking to overturn the FCC decisions that the broadcast of fleeting, isolated — and in some cases unintentional — words rendered these programs indecent."
The networks and stations said the FCC "overstepped its authority" and acted arbitrarily in not giving the networks a clear standard for what content is objectionable.
- source: news.yahoo.com
The rules have constantly been changing, or inconsistant, and basically give the FCC the ability to voilate the 1st admendment whenever they see fit. When they see fit seems to most often occur after the Family Television Council or whatever they are called, gets started on one of their campaigns. The end result is a few people get to alter the viewing habits of the majority without anyone's say or permission.
So bravo to the networks and finally growing a pair. Tell the FCC and FTC they can shove their wanton violations of the first admendment where the sun don't shine.
The networks and affiliate groups, representing more than 800 individual stations, issued a rare joint statement Friday calling the FCC ruling "unconstitutional and inconsistent with two decades of previous FCC decisions.
"In filing these court appeals we are seeking to overturn the FCC decisions that the broadcast of fleeting, isolated — and in some cases unintentional — words rendered these programs indecent."
The networks and stations said the FCC "overstepped its authority" and acted arbitrarily in not giving the networks a clear standard for what content is objectionable.
- source: news.yahoo.com
The rules have constantly been changing, or inconsistant, and basically give the FCC the ability to voilate the 1st admendment whenever they see fit. When they see fit seems to most often occur after the Family Television Council or whatever they are called, gets started on one of their campaigns. The end result is a few people get to alter the viewing habits of the majority without anyone's say or permission.
So bravo to the networks and finally growing a pair. Tell the FCC and FTC they can shove their wanton violations of the first admendment where the sun don't shine.
Friday, April 14, 2006
South Park Censored
Wednesday, South Park aired part II of its episode codemning Family Guy, censorship and the nonsense over the images of Muhammad. I know, that not PC, but then I am not Muslim. I don't expect them to follow every tenet of, say Christianity (nor would they), I don't see why we have to follow theirs.
Anycase, the powers that be at South Park decided that it was too risky to air an image of Muhammead handing a football thing to the Peter character, since it might anger some. Never mind that the image already aired a couple of years ago for the episode "Super Best Friends" and not a peep was heard. It a pretty solid example of how people can only become offended when someone tells them they should be. Otherwise most are oblivious.
Thanks to wikipedia for the pics.
Intel Mac Benchmark Smorgabord
Macologist.com did some massive benchmarking for all the intel Macs on the market. It contains more graphs and info then probably want to know. The one thing it lacks is a comprehensive versus section for comparing a Mac to its PC counterpart. Either way might be useful info for those thinking of making the jump.
Thursday, April 13, 2006
War on Easter?
Apparently there is a war going on. A war that noone knows is going on. That is hidden from view. A secret war. A war..against EASTER!?!?!?!?!?! Be afraid, be very afraid. The war could come to you!
Sounds a bit paranoid and dramatic but thank god we have Bill O'Reilly and his crazy friends to protect us. Either that or he has a new book to promote and nothing like making us problems to sell stuff. Heh the cover of his book is hilarious.
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Universal Healthcare in Massachusetts
Today, Governor Mitt Romney signed into law a bill that basically provides universal healthcare to residents of Massachusetts. The theory is that it will cost about a billion a year to provide the coverage to citizens. The cost would be re-couped from the federal government and existing state spending (since have to pay for care of the poor anyway, etc.). This should be interesting to see what occurs and could prove to be the testing ground for nationwide healthcare.
However, as is often the case, I don't think many have considered unintended side effects. The first will be flight into Mass. Many people, especially the poor and the ill, will probably try to move into Mass. to get the coverage to pay for needed medicines. I am not sure what the restrictions are on residency but it will quickly become a vital piece of information to have. Another aspect is the cost. I think one billion is too low a number. Healthcare costs are growing quickly ever year and I don't think the budgets are allowing for that. Finally, the beaurcracy that will form around this will probably quickly become huge, expensive, and incredibily ineffecient, which is what happens when the powers that be put paper pushers and shreadsheet lovers in charge. When you live by numbers and die by numbers, crap is usually the result. At the end of the day, however, I hope this plan succeeds and from it comes an effective, efficient plan for nationwide coverage.
However, as is often the case, I don't think many have considered unintended side effects. The first will be flight into Mass. Many people, especially the poor and the ill, will probably try to move into Mass. to get the coverage to pay for needed medicines. I am not sure what the restrictions are on residency but it will quickly become a vital piece of information to have. Another aspect is the cost. I think one billion is too low a number. Healthcare costs are growing quickly ever year and I don't think the budgets are allowing for that. Finally, the beaurcracy that will form around this will probably quickly become huge, expensive, and incredibily ineffecient, which is what happens when the powers that be put paper pushers and shreadsheet lovers in charge. When you live by numbers and die by numbers, crap is usually the result. At the end of the day, however, I hope this plan succeeds and from it comes an effective, efficient plan for nationwide coverage.
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
Rubber Stamp Congress video
CrooksandLiars.com has posted a hilarious video from Matt Stoller delivering a thousand plus rubber stamps to Senator Specter's office. In it he talks about what a "time-saver" it would be for the republicans to have the stamps so that Bush can protect us even more.
Video is here.
Video is here.
Online Free TV from ABC
ABC has announced that it is going to offer streams of its television shows including "Desperate Housewives" and "Lost" the day after they broadcast for free. Interesting twist on things since ABC was one of the first to offer its shows on iTunes for $1.99 a pop.
The catch in this case is you don't own the download (even though I am sure the tech savvy can remedy that) and you are going to be forced to watch those commercials as don't have the option to skip em. Small price to pay to have TV on demand or not having to stress missing your favorite show.
As far as how wide this will spread, that to me is debateable. The idea is sound. The business model actually exists (required to watch commercials) but will it spread. I guess it all depends on cost. The file size to serve up an hour long show is not small, nor is the storage, the servers, the bandwidth, etc (as youtube.com is discovering). Its easy to say will provide it, but a different animal to actually do it consistenly and with growing volume. I think in the short term, the networks will join the bandwagon but only in small carefully controlled doses.
As an aside, maybe the networks should consider joining together to offer their goods on youtube.com. The intrastructure and method of delivery already exists, they are thirsty for a business model, and they have a HUGE built-in audience. They could not only use the site to promote the show, but use it to create home grown homages (ie promotions) for those series in contests and the like. The best part though is no re-inventing the wheel and its probably possible to buy it outright.
The catch in this case is you don't own the download (even though I am sure the tech savvy can remedy that) and you are going to be forced to watch those commercials as don't have the option to skip em. Small price to pay to have TV on demand or not having to stress missing your favorite show.
As far as how wide this will spread, that to me is debateable. The idea is sound. The business model actually exists (required to watch commercials) but will it spread. I guess it all depends on cost. The file size to serve up an hour long show is not small, nor is the storage, the servers, the bandwidth, etc (as youtube.com is discovering). Its easy to say will provide it, but a different animal to actually do it consistenly and with growing volume. I think in the short term, the networks will join the bandwagon but only in small carefully controlled doses.
As an aside, maybe the networks should consider joining together to offer their goods on youtube.com. The intrastructure and method of delivery already exists, they are thirsty for a business model, and they have a HUGE built-in audience. They could not only use the site to promote the show, but use it to create home grown homages (ie promotions) for those series in contests and the like. The best part though is no re-inventing the wheel and its probably possible to buy it outright.
Monday, April 10, 2006
Immigration protests
Apparently in mulitple locations in the US, organized protests where carried out. In Lexington, Kentucky, they waved signs that read: "We were all immigrants once," and "We are not terrorists," The Associated Press reported. Many carried Mexican flags. Basically they want the chance at a better life.
Let us dissect some of these statements which truly summarize the thing. "We were all immigrants once." This is true, but most of those immigrants became citizens through legal means. They earned it. They followed the law. Are any of them terrorists? Not likely. I also find it telling many carry the Mexican flag. This seems to confuse the issue of loyalty. The claim they want to opportunites of the US but seem to also have divided loyalties. Also, they claim this issue is for all immigrants regardless of nationality, but clearly the flags prove its really only a Mexican issue. Considering that 70% of the illegals are probably from Mexico then its no surprise.
Key thing about this whole argument though...they want this chance without having to earn through legal means. They basically are arguing that since they have broken the law for so long lets just make it legal and be done with it. There are already means in place to earn citizenship, earn the right to live and work here. The key word is earn. Actually learning English being step 1 rather then living a lifetime here unable to communicate with 90% of the countries population many claim they are loyal (while waving the Mexican flag). The millions of people ignoring it shouldn't just get carte blanche because they have gotten away with it for so long.
You want the rights and freedoms that citizenship brings. Earn it. Become a citizen. End the divided loyalies.
Let us dissect some of these statements which truly summarize the thing. "We were all immigrants once." This is true, but most of those immigrants became citizens through legal means. They earned it. They followed the law. Are any of them terrorists? Not likely. I also find it telling many carry the Mexican flag. This seems to confuse the issue of loyalty. The claim they want to opportunites of the US but seem to also have divided loyalties. Also, they claim this issue is for all immigrants regardless of nationality, but clearly the flags prove its really only a Mexican issue. Considering that 70% of the illegals are probably from Mexico then its no surprise.
Key thing about this whole argument though...they want this chance without having to earn through legal means. They basically are arguing that since they have broken the law for so long lets just make it legal and be done with it. There are already means in place to earn citizenship, earn the right to live and work here. The key word is earn. Actually learning English being step 1 rather then living a lifetime here unable to communicate with 90% of the countries population many claim they are loyal (while waving the Mexican flag). The millions of people ignoring it shouldn't just get carte blanche because they have gotten away with it for so long.
You want the rights and freedoms that citizenship brings. Earn it. Become a citizen. End the divided loyalies.
Friday, April 07, 2006
Bush Authorized Plame leak?
In a story spreading like wildfire on the net but mostly ignored on the television, court papers have ex-chief of staff for Chenay claim that the President himself authorized the leak on Plame. The implications of such an act would normally be devestating but since the republicans have made a science of flaunting the law, I see little happening here.
The interesting aspect of the story is that the White House is neither confirming or denying the story. One thing is telling though is that Scott McClellen did feel a need to argue that Bush can de-classify information if he wants to. McClellan said, "Because of the public debate that was going on and some of the wild accusations that were flying around at the time, we felt it was very much in the public interest that what information could be declassified be declassified, and that's exactly what we did."
Of course this doesn't answer the question of why the White House wasn't up front about that in 2003. Why allow a two year plus investigation, costing who knows how much money continue if they believes the President can do what he wants? To me the whole thing stinks to high hell. If true, the story confirms my theory that the leak had to come from the top.
The interesting aspect of the story is that the White House is neither confirming or denying the story. One thing is telling though is that Scott McClellen did feel a need to argue that Bush can de-classify information if he wants to. McClellan said, "Because of the public debate that was going on and some of the wild accusations that were flying around at the time, we felt it was very much in the public interest that what information could be declassified be declassified, and that's exactly what we did."
Of course this doesn't answer the question of why the White House wasn't up front about that in 2003. Why allow a two year plus investigation, costing who knows how much money continue if they believes the President can do what he wants? To me the whole thing stinks to high hell. If true, the story confirms my theory that the leak had to come from the top.
McKinney Apologies`
Congresswomen McKinney was finally forced to see the light and apologize for her horrible behavior in striking an officer. She even did it on the House floor. "There should not have been any physical contact in this incident," McKinney said. "I am sorry that this misunderstanding happened at all, and I regret its escalation and I apologize." It may be too little to late as the charges are already before a grand jury. I don't think she deserves jail time but frankly she should get the same treatment any average citizen would get for doing the same thing be it a fine or jail time. Not sure what normally happens in DC on cases such as that.
XP Gaming on a Mac works
Some people have dared to experiment and have discovered that PC games work just fine on a Intel Mac. It should but since this is all new, it never hurts to be sure. What I am interested in though is performance comparisons. Hopefully soon someone will post some benchmark tests of XP systems versus various Mac systems to see who is king.
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
Apple official allows boot to XP
Today Apple released a beta version of "Boot Camp" that allows Microsoft XP to be installed on Apple intel based computers. The program also comes with the needed drivers for most of Apple's hardware and monitors. About the only thing not support is the remote and iSight camera. Hopefully this will be corrected with the final version of Boot Camp is released with "Leopard", the OS X upgrade.
With this development, once OS X 10.5 comes out, there is no reason to not try out the new suite of Apple products coming in the pipeline. I plan on trying out the Mac Mini.
Download the software here.
McKinney Needs Some Jail Time
It appears that the capitol police are going ahead with assault charges against US Representative McKinney. While elsewhere she would have already been tossed in jail and released on bail by now, the "stature" of the person combined with the way Washington DC justice system functions, means this case has to go before a grand jury. This is actually a colossal waste of money for a little thing, but sadly, its become necessary due to how horribly McKinney handled this whole situation.
If she had simply made a apology/non-apology that politicians are famous for, this might have gone away. Instead she immediately went for the race card. Something she has historically done, but usually with at least a little hesitation. Even when running against a black Democrat candidate, she used race to help her get votes. Habits die hard I guess.
As a result of her own behavior, she painted the police in a corner. Do nothing, they look weak, ineffective and easily pushed over. Also, McKinney probably would have forced them to fire the officer which would have severely impacted the ability for them to do their jobs as they would always wonder if the next person they stopped could cost them their job.
Finally there is a hypocrisy of the whole thing. She is a lawmaker who has made it very clear she thinks she is above the law. A security officer stopped her because he didn't recognize her. Her response is to hit him. In what world is that an appropriate response? If it had occurred to anyone else, anywhere else, we would have called them a damn fool. In McKinney's world though its the officer's fault for not memorizing her face. Why he should have to do that is beyond me. If she behaved like the adult she claims to be, the situation would have resolved itself in minutes instead of becoming this pathetic farce.
The worst part? She pretty much guaranteed herself re-election. Sadly her constituents are not the best and the brightest. They prefer flash over substance, loud over results. I say this as a former resident and result of her district. A district whose conditions and education level is abysmal and I hear little of McKinney's part in improving things.
Katie Couric moves to CBS
Katie Couric made it official that she is moving to CBS to anchor The CBS Evening News and appear on 60 Minutes beginning in September. The vocalized reason is the opportunity, history, yada-yada. The real reason is moolah with a rumored pay day of around $50 million for 5 years. Her replacement on Today? Meredith Vieira from The View.
The real question though is why should the viewing audience care? The answer of course is we shouldn't. When was the last time Couric even showed journalistic ability? When she interviewed the celeb du jour with the usual litany of softball questions? That represents 20 years of experience? The reality is a news anchor today is much different from yesteryears. Today they are simply talking heads reading from a script providing by writers and producers. It doesn't take any special skill to read a script. And don't point at 60 minutes. Those are also canned. The producers are one that does the research, interviews the people, edits the story, everything. The only thing the on air talent does is show up to film a few scenes from a script. Again, zero display of journalism.
From a business move, this might be genius but I think CBS is in for a rude awakening. The audience at the crack of dawn is much different from an audience during a setting sun.
DeLay Quits Congress
Representative Tom DeLay has finally decided to step down from Congress and not run for re-election. His reason is that since he couldn't gaurantee a win, there was no point in running. Actually logical. I think the real reason he quit is because the Republican leadership ordered him to. DeLay was the grand poobah of the Republican congress for the last five years during these times of corruption and rubber stamping. By taking him off the table, the Democrats loose a potent weapon for Congress seats and "proves" that Republicans have cleaned up. This of course is bullshit, but perception is everything during an election year. I wonder what jackass his district will send next.
Rome, GA vs Gordon Lee case dismissed
About a year and a half and $50,000 in defense attorney fees (who knows how much it cost the state), the case against comic retailer Gordon Lee was dismissed. Apparently a fundamental fact of the case, who was given "Alternative Comics #2" was incorrect. It wasn't a nine year old, but supposedly his six year old brother that was given the comic, which Rome prosecutors deemed offensive and dangerous to minors.
Two odd things about that, one is how in the world did the DA Paul Cadle, makes such a monumental error, and 2) doesn't that make it sound a little bit worse as far as a crime is concerned? Yet for some reason, instead of filing felony charges again, the DA is going to file misdemeanor charges again but with the 6 year old as the offended minor.
If I was a Rome citizen, I would be more then a little pissed that my tax payer money was being wasted on such cases.
Two odd things about that, one is how in the world did the DA Paul Cadle, makes such a monumental error, and 2) doesn't that make it sound a little bit worse as far as a crime is concerned? Yet for some reason, instead of filing felony charges again, the DA is going to file misdemeanor charges again but with the 6 year old as the offended minor.
If I was a Rome citizen, I would be more then a little pissed that my tax payer money was being wasted on such cases.
Monday, April 03, 2006
Bull -censored- !
The FCC has rules that using the word shit and any iteration of it is no longer allowed on the airwaves it controls without a heavy fine. Besides the fact that the FCC is not an elected lawmaking body, I am not aware of the First Admendent of the Constitution allowing such behavior. Yet here we are, just accepting it as par the course.
Here is a problem with this "law." It no longer allows for the use of the word "bullshit." This oh so powerful word that allows us to easily and quickly call people on the inaccuracies and exaggerations that come from their mouths. A word that is frequently used in conjunction with our elected leaders. Basically, by saying this word is "illegal", they are squashing our political speech. Yet we accept it.
What bugs me about this whole thing though is that the FCC claims they do it because the public demands it. They base this off of the complaints they get. Complaints that time and time again have come not from the public in general but watchdog groups like Parents Television Council.
A group with agenda, a group that by definition is against anything that doesn't present a happy, god loving (really Christian god-loving) world. All it takes is one of their ilk to submit a report and the FCC can and does make decisions that effects everyone. I don't want some unknown stranger to decide what I can and cannot watch. I can make those decisions just fine thank you very much. I am sure many would agree as this TV survey apparently shows.
Read more about it over at Buzzmachine.com where Jeff Jarvis writes about it with much more skill then I can muster with "In Defense of Bullshit". His analysis of the report is here.
Here is a problem with this "law." It no longer allows for the use of the word "bullshit." This oh so powerful word that allows us to easily and quickly call people on the inaccuracies and exaggerations that come from their mouths. A word that is frequently used in conjunction with our elected leaders. Basically, by saying this word is "illegal", they are squashing our political speech. Yet we accept it.
What bugs me about this whole thing though is that the FCC claims they do it because the public demands it. They base this off of the complaints they get. Complaints that time and time again have come not from the public in general but watchdog groups like Parents Television Council.
A group with agenda, a group that by definition is against anything that doesn't present a happy, god loving (really Christian god-loving) world. All it takes is one of their ilk to submit a report and the FCC can and does make decisions that effects everyone. I don't want some unknown stranger to decide what I can and cannot watch. I can make those decisions just fine thank you very much. I am sure many would agree as this TV survey apparently shows.
Read more about it over at Buzzmachine.com where Jeff Jarvis writes about it with much more skill then I can muster with "In Defense of Bullshit". His analysis of the report is here.
Studios agree to sell movies online
Seven movies studios - Warner Bros, Universal, Sony, Paramount, Fox and MGM - basically all the ones that matter, have agreed to start distributing their movies online via MovieLink and CinemaNow. The price, $10 - $30, depending on the movie. In other words, the same price as a DVD. The question you have to ask is why?
Well, one, by bypassing the ever popular iTunes, the studios retain total control over everything, and get all the profits. If go through Apple, they get a small percentage of each sell, even if a penny, thats a penny to much for the studios.
Second, Apple would try to have some control over the content and its use. Apple currently allows the music to be "yours" to do with as you see fit, wether copy it to disc, to the iPod, whatever. The movie studios only allow the movies to be copied to DVD if its a Movielink "authorized" computer, whatever that means. More then likely there would be use restrictions out the yazoo.
This method will also help the studios in their attempts to see every tom, dick and jane on the internet. Now they can go to court and say "see! we did try to provide an online alternative". Nevermind that the price is rediculous.
If anyone you know considers getting these movies from online, slap them. Seriously. Anyone that uses these sites with prices that make no attempt to compete with DVDs needs to be smacked for stupity. If go online, you are limiting what you can do. Basically you can play it on your computer..and thats about it. Those special features? If available, probably extra. Long story short, until the MPAA is serious about competing, the consumer should show them the door. This "plan" and these prices are simply insulting.
DS Like coming May 21?
New Super Mario Bros for the Nintendo DS has been delayed a week to May 21st, according to the official website. The theory is the delay is so that Nintendo can launch the DS Lite in North America with a new Mario game.
The theory has legs. One, Nintendo likes to launch every system with Mario whenever possible. Two, they like to launch software on Wednesday and hardware on weekends. May 21st is a Sunday. Finally, after a system is released in Japan, its about three months later it shows up stateside. Japan got the DS Lite in Febuary.
The theory has legs. One, Nintendo likes to launch every system with Mario whenever possible. Two, they like to launch software on Wednesday and hardware on weekends. May 21st is a Sunday. Finally, after a system is released in Japan, its about three months later it shows up stateside. Japan got the DS Lite in Febuary.
Thursday, March 30, 2006
Official Nintendo Specs?
IGN is reporting that is has the info on the full specs for the Nintendo Revolution coming probably September of 2006. The specs basically says its 2x as powerful as the Gamecube but only half the power of the PS3 and X-Box 360.
Some stats:
- CPU clocked at 729MHz, versus 485MHz for GameCube, 733MHz for XBox, and 3.2GHz for XBox 360. Note different architectures for each, so not 100% compariable, but it does illustrate that CPU power, ie processing power, the Revolution is pretty average.
- Graphics card speed for Revolution is 243MHz, GameCube is 162MHz, XBox is 233MHz, and no info on the XBox 360. Basically the graphics are a step up over the GameCube but probably fall way short of the abilities of the PS3 and 360.
- Memory for the Revolution is 88MBs of RAM, Gamecube is 40MBs, XBox 64MBs, and PS3 is 512MBs. Uh once again the Revolution is falling short. Less memory, means more frequent loads, means less detailed graphics, means just less in general. However, the Revolution will allow external memory to be added via ports so the numbers can be boosted. How that impacts performance? On a computer, it means good things, but a dedicated gaming device? I doubt not so much.
Clearly Nintendo has no intention to go head to head with Sony and Microsoft in hardware. This indicates that Nintendo is planning to conquer the market with price point, its unparalleled ability to make fun creative games, and its extensive access to games for the Virtual Library. Suffice it to say, Nintendo is throwing out saying its not the hardware but the software that makes the system. It worked for the DS over the PSP.
Tuesday, March 28, 2006
Bush's Chief of Staff resigns
Bush's chief of staff of 5 and a 1/2 years, Andrew Card resigned today. His replacement is Josh Bolten who was the Policy Directory of the Bush-Cheney transitition and director of OMB. What does this mean for the country? Not a thing, its basically tradinng one yes-man for another yes-man. For republicans, its a trading of the gatekeeper to the President. This will give them the illusion that their concerns may be heard and action taken. The reality, of course, is that nothing will change. Personally I just hope that Card is feeling a bit resentful and decides to lash out in public ways.
Thursday, March 23, 2006
Nintendo Revolution or Nintendo Go?
Nintendo President Satoru Iwata gave his keynote today at the Game Developer Conference. I am sure much was discussed about this and that for the industry but the news of interest is a leak of what could be the finalized name of the console, calling it Go. Remember the name "Revolution" was just the project codename but it has never been the official name. Personally its sounds like a bunch of hogwash based on guesses.
In more concrete news, Nintendo has added Sega Genesis and TurboGrafx games to the Virtual Console in a "best of" manner. The games nor cost was announced. With this additional though that means that players can get hold of the entire 8-bit and 16-bit video game highlights. If they could toss in 80s - 90 arcade games and Atari, they could have all of pre-playstation history available on one machine.
Additionally, a new Zelda games was revealed for the DS called The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass. The game sounds like it will make much use of the DS touchpad and stylus and the graphics are in the flavor of the Wind Waker.
In more concrete news, Nintendo has added Sega Genesis and TurboGrafx games to the Virtual Console in a "best of" manner. The games nor cost was announced. With this additional though that means that players can get hold of the entire 8-bit and 16-bit video game highlights. If they could toss in 80s - 90 arcade games and Atari, they could have all of pre-playstation history available on one machine.
Additionally, a new Zelda games was revealed for the DS called The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass. The game sounds like it will make much use of the DS touchpad and stylus and the graphics are in the flavor of the Wind Waker.
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
Bill O'Reilly: Special Victims Unit
The New Yorker's Nicholas Lemann did an excellent writeup of Bill O'Reilly's rise to cable power and the impact he has had. It also discusses how the show has moved away from politics and more into victim discussions, most notably what a poor victim O'Reilly is from the people that dare to bash him (nevermind they do it with those annoying things called facts and his own words). The overall point is that O'Reilly is the forefront that spearheaded cable news' move from information to sensationalism. If looking for facts, go elsewhere, if want opinions and talking points, go to cable news. Gee thanks Bill.
Final Fantasy parody video
A video worth watching for any fan of the Final Fantasy series. The creators did a good job of nailing down the fighting system with the grunts and jerks and how the characters move from environment to environment. Effective use of editing.
See it here.
See it here.
60GB iPod Video "at risk"
Apple lists the black and white versions of the 60gig iPod video "at risk" for retailers this week. There are many reason for this such as low supplies, problem with manufacturing, shipping delays...or plans to release a updated version.
There have been rumors for a while of an iPod video 2.0 but would Apple really release that version not even 6 months after the current version? On one hand I hope so because the new version is theorized to be touch based with bluetooth headphones. On the other hand I already dropped $400 for the thing and don't want to feel like I am missing out on the latest and greatest again since such a leap in tech would make an upgrade worth considering (despite knowing its stupid to do it).
In either case, the word will probably come down around April 1 since for the last few years Apple has announced something around that time. Ah Apple quit teasing. It hurts us. Or at least if tease make it something truly delicious like native support for a Windows boot.
There have been rumors for a while of an iPod video 2.0 but would Apple really release that version not even 6 months after the current version? On one hand I hope so because the new version is theorized to be touch based with bluetooth headphones. On the other hand I already dropped $400 for the thing and don't want to feel like I am missing out on the latest and greatest again since such a leap in tech would make an upgrade worth considering (despite knowing its stupid to do it).
In either case, the word will probably come down around April 1 since for the last few years Apple has announced something around that time. Ah Apple quit teasing. It hurts us. Or at least if tease make it something truly delicious like native support for a Windows boot.
Monday, March 20, 2006
Toon News
FoxNews.com is suggesting that maybe Isaac Hayes did not quit South Park. Instead some other did it for him. Who the other is unknown but its assumed its Scientology related with the backing of Tom Cruise. The evidence for this? Apparently on 1/17/06 Hayes has a minor stroke. Minor being it didn't kill him or paralize. A stroke is a stroke that that means a lenghty recovery time. One assumes that if recovering from a stroke the last thing on your mind is what some cartoon makers are up to or did 6 months ago. Further evidence in the article is a reference to a interview by the AV Club over at theonion.com. In it they asked Hayes about the Scientolgy bashing episode of South Park that is assumed to be the catelyst for Hayes quitting.
AV Club: They did just do an episode that made fun of your religion, Scientology. Did that bother you?
Hayes: Well, I talked to Matt [Stone] and Trey [Parker] about that. They didn't let me know until it was done. I said, 'Guys, you have it all wrong. We're not like that. I know that's your thing, but get your information correct, because somebody might believe that [expletive], you know?' But I understand what they're doing. I told them to take a couple of Scientology courses and understand what we do. [Laughs.]
Hmm so he doesn't speak out when informed about the episode, doesn't speak out when it aired, doesn't speak out after it aired, says nothing while Cruise fights the airing in England, and just before the eve of the repeat, he quits? Once you toss in the stroke (if true) this whole story is starting to stink to high hell.
----------
In Fox Sunday cartoons news, King of the Hill got a new season order, necessitating the rehiring of pretty much everyone since they closed shop last year on the assumption they where canceled. While doing that, Fox execs also ordered seasons 18 and 19 of the Simpsons, so get your Homer fix through 2008 at least.
Finally Billy West of Futurama gave fans collective glee by reporting on his forums that 26 new eps of the show where ordered. For 24 hours much happiness and joy was felt. Then he dashes them "I'm sorry I gave inaccurate info on the cartoon. I was told on one end that the TV show was a go but DXC enlightened me (with a hammer) that this was not the case." DXC is David X Cohen, the grand pubah of the show. On bright side the direct to DVD movies are still a go.
AV Club: They did just do an episode that made fun of your religion, Scientology. Did that bother you?
Hayes: Well, I talked to Matt [Stone] and Trey [Parker] about that. They didn't let me know until it was done. I said, 'Guys, you have it all wrong. We're not like that. I know that's your thing, but get your information correct, because somebody might believe that [expletive], you know?' But I understand what they're doing. I told them to take a couple of Scientology courses and understand what we do. [Laughs.]
Hmm so he doesn't speak out when informed about the episode, doesn't speak out when it aired, doesn't speak out after it aired, says nothing while Cruise fights the airing in England, and just before the eve of the repeat, he quits? Once you toss in the stroke (if true) this whole story is starting to stink to high hell.
----------
In Fox Sunday cartoons news, King of the Hill got a new season order, necessitating the rehiring of pretty much everyone since they closed shop last year on the assumption they where canceled. While doing that, Fox execs also ordered seasons 18 and 19 of the Simpsons, so get your Homer fix through 2008 at least.
Finally Billy West of Futurama gave fans collective glee by reporting on his forums that 26 new eps of the show where ordered. For 24 hours much happiness and joy was felt. Then he dashes them "I'm sorry I gave inaccurate info on the cartoon. I was told on one end that the TV show was a go but DXC enlightened me (with a hammer) that this was not the case." DXC is David X Cohen, the grand pubah of the show. On bright side the direct to DVD movies are still a go.
Friday, March 17, 2006
PS3 to come with 60 gig harddrive
Apparently by some means, its been officially confirmed that the PS3 will come with a 60 gig harddrive. Cool but this does mean the price is more and more likely to be $500 when it does come out. Read what few details here.
Thursday, March 16, 2006
$9 Trillion Deficit approved
Today, Congress along party lines of Republicans for and Democrats against, approved a bill that will allow the deficit to be increased to $9 Trillion dollars. That is $9,000,000,000,000. Lots of zeros. It represents about $30,000 for every man, woman and child in the United States. This increase is to avoid a election damaging (and rich angering) tax increase that will allow more money for Iraq (building countries on our dime is expensive) and Medicare (cause of a fiasco of the pharmacy program).
In other news of fiscal irresponsibility or at least an odd sense of prorities, Republicans shot down a measure to increase funding to Veterans medical services by $1.5 billion. Unlike the above where its just borrowed, this would have been paid for by closing loopholes in the corporate tax law. Loopholes are defined as an ambiguity that makes it possible to evade a difficulty or obligation. Basically the law would have forced corporations to pay the taxes they owed anyway and would have used the money to help our Veterans. You know the whole "Support the Troops!" thing the republicans are always using as a defense for Iraq criticism.
Apparently we can borrow money to add $91 billion to rebuild Iraq, but Congress can't be bothered to close some tax code that would have paid for additional Veteran benefits. Am I the only one that finds that idea completely nuts?
In other news of fiscal irresponsibility or at least an odd sense of prorities, Republicans shot down a measure to increase funding to Veterans medical services by $1.5 billion. Unlike the above where its just borrowed, this would have been paid for by closing loopholes in the corporate tax law. Loopholes are defined as an ambiguity that makes it possible to evade a difficulty or obligation. Basically the law would have forced corporations to pay the taxes they owed anyway and would have used the money to help our Veterans. You know the whole "Support the Troops!" thing the republicans are always using as a defense for Iraq criticism.
Apparently we can borrow money to add $91 billion to rebuild Iraq, but Congress can't be bothered to close some tax code that would have paid for additional Veteran benefits. Am I the only one that finds that idea completely nuts?
XP on Mac offical
A contest, started by Colin Nederkoorm, offered up some money to have whoever could boot Windows XP on an Intel MAc, have windows coexist with OS X and not interfere with operation of either, and at bootup gives the user the option to choose which OS to boot. The money started at $100 but through donations ballooned up to $13000.
The contest finally has a winner. Confired by Colin, the solution is now wild on the net for whoever wants to try it. Be wary though, its a new solution, its probably hasn't been fully vetted so be sure to back up all your data just incase a hard drive/reinstall of OS X is needed.
Go here to the .zip that has the bootloader CD image and how-to info. Apparently will work on MacBook Pro, iMac and Mac mini. Sweetness.
The contest finally has a winner. Confired by Colin, the solution is now wild on the net for whoever wants to try it. Be wary though, its a new solution, its probably hasn't been fully vetted so be sure to back up all your data just incase a hard drive/reinstall of OS X is needed.
Go here to the .zip that has the bootloader CD image and how-to info. Apparently will work on MacBook Pro, iMac and Mac mini. Sweetness.
PS3 Offcially coming November 2006
Sony has finally annoucned a date for the PS3. Its coming "early" November 2006. Ok, not a firm date but its more then gotten in the past about the release. They intend to release it worldwide so none of that Japan first for 6 months, then the US then Europe 3 months after nonsense. Of course you know what that means! Shortages!!! Ebay sellers unite! I actually predicted this release date (but got the price wrong).
Also announced is that the price is going to be $425 or up. I am guessing it will land at $499. The iPod showed that people are willing to pay more if it seems worth it. Since a shortage will happen no matter what, they can always drop the price later. No final specs have been released.
For those on the fence about a PSP, the price is dropping to $199. That is $50 off the current price. I have a PSP, the games as a whole are still designed as if for a PS2 rather then a portable system so I recommend waiting before buying. Go get a DS. The games are top notched nearly across the board. I actually predicted this price drop, just got the time wrong by three months.
Finally, Griffin the makers of mostly iPod accessories has entered the PSP accessory market. They have annouced the release of a iFM radio adapater ($50), transmitter ($50), and headphone ($50). Seems similar to the stuff for the iPod just designed to work with the PSP. Considering a rumored re-design coming of the PSP, I would wait on buying these.
Also announced is that the price is going to be $425 or up. I am guessing it will land at $499. The iPod showed that people are willing to pay more if it seems worth it. Since a shortage will happen no matter what, they can always drop the price later. No final specs have been released.
For those on the fence about a PSP, the price is dropping to $199. That is $50 off the current price. I have a PSP, the games as a whole are still designed as if for a PS2 rather then a portable system so I recommend waiting before buying. Go get a DS. The games are top notched nearly across the board. I actually predicted this price drop, just got the time wrong by three months.
Finally, Griffin the makers of mostly iPod accessories has entered the PSP accessory market. They have annouced the release of a iFM radio adapater ($50), transmitter ($50), and headphone ($50). Seems similar to the stuff for the iPod just designed to work with the PSP. Considering a rumored re-design coming of the PSP, I would wait on buying these.
World's largest video game collection?
Click here for a site that has pics of what seems to be an insane amount of video games. Its just shelves and shelves and more shelves of video games. Its a truly insane collection. Makes me wonder if the guy actually played them all and if so how many did he beat.
Boston Legal diatribe against Bush
Crooksandliars.com has a video grab from the 3/14/06 episode of Boston Legal that takes America to task for its continued dis-interest in all the things Bush has done in these last 4 years. Wehter agree with the view or not, it will get your dander up which is always good TV.
Click here to get to the video.
Shore: At a presidential rally, parade or appearance. If you have on a supportive t-shirt you can be there. If you're wearing or carrying something in protest, you can be removed, This in the United States of America.- This in the United States of America! Is Melissa Hughes the only one embarrassed?
Click here to get to the video.
iTunes adds
For those basketball fantics out there, Apple and CBS will start providing college games on iTunes for $1.99. Seems cheap but once take out all the commercials and other misc timeout and breaks, the games would be just the regulation hour long so makes it a good deal all around if able to stay away from spoilers. Personally this does nothing for me because not much in sports but I can see the benefits of it. Hopefully this will spread to other sports.
iTunes also seems to be lurching towards providing movie content. Assuming you can call it providing since its actually a link that then takes you some Disney controlled site that attempts to rip you off severily for a direct to video movie for $9.99 called High School Musical. If this is the proposed method and price of providing movies, hopefully this method will die a quick and vicious death.
As for the price, whatever Apple and/or Disney exec thought of that needs a solid boot in the rear. The only reason someone should even consider paying $9.99 for a so-so quality download of a movie is if its released on iTunes the same day its released in theatres. That way those that refuse to pay to see the movie at a theatre can still see it in crappy download quality on their computer that may then encourage them to buy the DVD later. Realistically though, even for that the price should be $4.99 at the most.
iTunes also seems to be lurching towards providing movie content. Assuming you can call it providing since its actually a link that then takes you some Disney controlled site that attempts to rip you off severily for a direct to video movie for $9.99 called High School Musical. If this is the proposed method and price of providing movies, hopefully this method will die a quick and vicious death.
As for the price, whatever Apple and/or Disney exec thought of that needs a solid boot in the rear. The only reason someone should even consider paying $9.99 for a so-so quality download of a movie is if its released on iTunes the same day its released in theatres. That way those that refuse to pay to see the movie at a theatre can still see it in crappy download quality on their computer that may then encourage them to buy the DVD later. Realistically though, even for that the price should be $4.99 at the most.
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
Little info for the South Dakota abortion debate
A little bit of information that sadly supports an interesting tidbit I find about the abortion debate is that the baby is a conservative problem while in the mom but becomes a liberal problem outside of the mom.
- 5 out of the top 10 poorest counties in America are in South Dakota
- 4 out of the top 5 poorest counties in America are in South Dakata
- 2 out of the top 10 poorest counties in America are in Texas
Monday, March 13, 2006
Playstation 3 Presentation
Released is a nearly 2 hour long video of Sony's E3 presentation of the PS3 from last year I think. Its interesting to see and shows what Sony was thinking they wanted to do. Basically take the most power home PC computer on the market today, and it might, just might be as good as a PS3. It would also cost around $3000 versus the probably $500 of the PS3. If what they say it can do versus what the final product will actually have, there really is very little reason to get a PC for gaming purposes.
Highlights:
PS3 Specs:
Core:
- PowerPC Core 3.2GHz
- 512 KB L2 cache
Graphics (7x more powerful then the PS2):
- NVidia RSX at 550MHz
- Multi-way parallel FP shader pipeline
- 60fps
- 128 bit floating point pixel precision (current consoles are 32bit)
- 2k x 1k resolution for high-def televisions
- 136 shader operations per cycle
- over 300m transisters (about 5x over current consoles)
Memory:
- 256 MB XDR RAM at 3.2GHz
- 256 MB GDDR3 VRAM @700MHz
- Detachable 2.5'' HDD slot (ie, a laptop hardrive that is easy to upgrade)
Input/Output:
- 6 USB 2.0 ports (4 front, 2 back)
- 1 Memory Stick, SD card slot
- 1 CompactFlash slot
- 1 AV Multi output
Communication:
- Gigabit Ethernet slots
- Built-in Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g
- Bluetooth for up to 7 controllers
Disc Media:
- Backwards compatible to PS1 and PS2
- CD-DA, CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, SACD, DualDisc
- DVD-video, DVD-ROM, DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD+RW
- Blu-ray, BD-ROM, BD-R, BD-RE (ie if PS3 is hot, Sony when the next gen DVD format wars by default.)
Digital Media (formats not specified but assume same as PSP):
- Plays audio
- Plays video
- shows pics
Network:
- Allows online play (that was a gimme) with some internet access (probably Sony only places).
- Allows peer 2 peer connections to transfer data (since Sony has TV, music etc properties, how they limit the exchange of data should be of interest).
Of course its too early to tell as often what the device is theorized to be able to do versus what is done with it are two different things. Also, the older the console gets, the more tricks the developers learn and the more they can get out of it. Finally keep in mind that what the say the product will have as features versus what the final product will have can be two different things. However, if they deliver what they promise, the PS3 is going to be the console to beat. Now if only Sony would learn how to make great fun software with the same skill Nintendo has.
Highlights:
PS3 Specs:
Core:
- PowerPC Core 3.2GHz
- 512 KB L2 cache
Graphics (7x more powerful then the PS2):
- NVidia RSX at 550MHz
- Multi-way parallel FP shader pipeline
- 60fps
- 128 bit floating point pixel precision (current consoles are 32bit)
- 2k x 1k resolution for high-def televisions
- 136 shader operations per cycle
- over 300m transisters (about 5x over current consoles)
Memory:
- 256 MB XDR RAM at 3.2GHz
- 256 MB GDDR3 VRAM @700MHz
- Detachable 2.5'' HDD slot (ie, a laptop hardrive that is easy to upgrade)
Input/Output:
- 6 USB 2.0 ports (4 front, 2 back)
- 1 Memory Stick, SD card slot
- 1 CompactFlash slot
- 1 AV Multi output
Communication:
- Gigabit Ethernet slots
- Built-in Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g
- Bluetooth for up to 7 controllers
Disc Media:
- Backwards compatible to PS1 and PS2
- CD-DA, CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, SACD, DualDisc
- DVD-video, DVD-ROM, DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD+RW
- Blu-ray, BD-ROM, BD-R, BD-RE (ie if PS3 is hot, Sony when the next gen DVD format wars by default.)
Digital Media (formats not specified but assume same as PSP):
- Plays audio
- Plays video
- shows pics
Network:
- Allows online play (that was a gimme) with some internet access (probably Sony only places).
- Allows peer 2 peer connections to transfer data (since Sony has TV, music etc properties, how they limit the exchange of data should be of interest).
Of course its too early to tell as often what the device is theorized to be able to do versus what is done with it are two different things. Also, the older the console gets, the more tricks the developers learn and the more they can get out of it. Finally keep in mind that what the say the product will have as features versus what the final product will have can be two different things. However, if they deliver what they promise, the PS3 is going to be the console to beat. Now if only Sony would learn how to make great fun software with the same skill Nintendo has.
Saturday, March 11, 2006
Apple Windfall if only...
According to some new study of dubious results, if Apple or Microsoft would overcome BIOS differences and allow duel boot on a Mac, Apple could see at least a 22% growth. Personally I think you don't need studies for such a no brainer. Due to the iPod, iTunes, and just the good word of mouth that Apple has, I think alot more then 22% would switch.
Apple is making the assumptions that the curious are willing to drop at least $700 for the cheapest Apple comp, the Mac mini, just to try Apple. Well, they are wrong. Few people are will drop that kind of money for a product they know nothing about and not sure they can use or learn. However, if suddenly they can have Windows installed on it too, its not a gamble. If the like the Apple OS, cool beans the buyer and Apple wins. If they don't like the Apple OS and prefer to go back to Windows...the user wins and so does Apple as they had a convert they didn't have before. The reason is simple, that person will go "I didn't like the Apple OS but man that comp is sweet. Runs fast and looks good."
No matter what, the word of mouth would be good. Most companies would pay good money to have that kind of "problem" but Apple in their misplaced pride refuses to take advantage of what their excellent hardware design could be used to drive sales. It can only be a good thing if along the way millions more tried the Apple OS. The more that try it the more that may convert. Few people however are going to gamble hundred of dollars on a maybe which is what Apple is currently expecting and has been for years now.
Apple is making the assumptions that the curious are willing to drop at least $700 for the cheapest Apple comp, the Mac mini, just to try Apple. Well, they are wrong. Few people are will drop that kind of money for a product they know nothing about and not sure they can use or learn. However, if suddenly they can have Windows installed on it too, its not a gamble. If the like the Apple OS, cool beans the buyer and Apple wins. If they don't like the Apple OS and prefer to go back to Windows...the user wins and so does Apple as they had a convert they didn't have before. The reason is simple, that person will go "I didn't like the Apple OS but man that comp is sweet. Runs fast and looks good."
No matter what, the word of mouth would be good. Most companies would pay good money to have that kind of "problem" but Apple in their misplaced pride refuses to take advantage of what their excellent hardware design could be used to drive sales. It can only be a good thing if along the way millions more tried the Apple OS. The more that try it the more that may convert. Few people however are going to gamble hundred of dollars on a maybe which is what Apple is currently expecting and has been for years now.
Friday, March 10, 2006
Bill O'Reilly losing it
In further proof that Bill O'Reilly is slowly becoming unhinged, he apparently began sicking Fox Security on callers that said stuff he doesn't like. Considering the sheer volume of things he doesn't like and his inability to handle any criticism whatsoever, they probably had to hire a call center to "investigate" his complaints. Nevermind that he is complaining against people that called his call-in show. Click here for a video of Keith Olbermann summurizing and having fun with the latest in O'Reillyland.
AT&T ripping off soldiers
According to a blog from someone that used to be a CEO for a telecom, apparently AT&T is overcharging the soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan to make long distance charges to home. Apparently the cost is $.21/per minute but the real world cost at most is $.01/ per minute. Apparently AT&T can do this because they have the monopoly on phone service to the Armed Services. Not sure if true or not but is a bit of interesting info. Gives you the warm and fuzzies about the Bellsouth & AT&T merger doesn't it?
Lego Aircraft Carrier
Another sweet lego project - an aircraft carrier with planes and other need little features. The pic gallery is here.
Thursday, March 09, 2006
Top 10 Strange Lego Creations
Click here to go to a sweet site that shows what it believes to be the top 10 lego creations. I just think they neat as all get out and if anyone has a site that catalogs these sweet creations be sure to link it in the comments. The AC unit above, works to amazingly enough.
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
Jon Stewart's Oscar Night
I watched Oscar night for one reason only - Jon Stewart. This year I could not have cared less who won what in whatever category. Not for political reasons but just because. I think as I get older, the yearly backpat by the rich for the rich gets more and more tiresome. Hollywood especially is full of itself. Oscar night seemed to highlight this as the only jokes the "stars" could laugh at where those at the expense of politicians. But make fun of the Hollywood culture and machine and it was death ray time from the audience. Can't make fun of Hollywood could have been a theme for the night. As MSNBC.com points out, the stars just don't get Jon Stewart. Of course its seems that most stars are a step above white trash, know it, and hate to be reminded of it. They instead would like to pretend they have been elevated from all the weakness of the common folk. Well, whatever, their loss.
Personally though, I find Jon Stewart hilarious. Most of his jokes where good, his pre-taped stuff excellent and really I was saddened there was not more of him. I also wish he come with all cannons firing. He held back, and the TV audience missed out on much of what makes the Daily Show great. Even holding back though, he was best thing about the night of mostly yawns and meaningless montages.
Personally though, I find Jon Stewart hilarious. Most of his jokes where good, his pre-taped stuff excellent and really I was saddened there was not more of him. I also wish he come with all cannons firing. He held back, and the TV audience missed out on much of what makes the Daily Show great. Even holding back though, he was best thing about the night of mostly yawns and meaningless montages.
Barry Bonds, Steroid Abuser
A new book, Game of Shadows, attempts to detail Bonds' years of steroid abuse beginning in 1998, according to Sports Illustrated. Gee, I am shocked. Man grows about three sizes in muscle mass in about a year while in his late 30s, and the man still thinks the public is retarded enough to not think steroids. Because you know, that just happens all the time. Personally I think baseball (if it had a set which it doesn't) should investigate Bonds, test him after every homerun and in between for giggles, and the first time they can, pounce on him. Build a case and then Pete Rose his ass from baseball. Make him the example that follows all else. Baseball is still feeling the effects of Pete Rose and I imagine the same would occur if Bonds was similarily treated.
Monday, March 06, 2006
South Dakota Abortion Bill signed into law
Today, South Dakota governer signed into law the first bill that is a direct attempt to overturn Roe v Wade. The bill makes any abortion illegal except those that are harming the mother. Pretty much it has to be the mom or the baby. Rape, incest, etc, the baby is a keeper. I am sure pro-lifers are thinking "victory!". I think once the dust settles this will actually be a blow for their cause.
Once people realize this type of law will spread from state to state the same way the anti-gay bills have, many will give pause. Unlike like gay marriage, this type of action directly effects everyone. Its one thing to be all high and mighty when it doesn't effect you, its another when it does.
The main problem I have with the law is it still doesn't accomplish anything. I think I am like most pro-choicers in that we have the same goal - to end abortion. We just differ on the means. We also have more realistic expectations. We know abortion will never end. Things can be done to reduce the number done every year. Things can also be done so that when an abortion is done, its done safetly, in a sterile environment, by trained doctors. I think few want a return to pre-1978 conditions of back room abortions done by anyone with a knife.
We also feel that the mothers rights supercede the potential babies rights. If pro-life, that view is the opposite (with rare exceptions but only because forced to). For me it goes even further. We all know the horror stories when parents are forced to be parents. If the mom doesn't want to be a mom, glad she knows it, better then her creating the next monstor in a plethora that this society already deals with. If I thought the child services system could handle all the babies, that might make me feel better, but it can't handle the load it has now, much less the load that will be created if in the grand utopia pro-lifers envision, all conceived babies are born.
Pro-choice is considered a liberal agenda. Pro-life a conservative one. The interesting thing about this is while the "baby" is in the mother, its a conservative problem, but the moment its born, it becomes a liberal problem with concerns over its care, feeding, education and all those other issues.
I have to give South Dakota credit though. This will probably go to the Supreme Court and with the court makeup as it is now, it will probably past muster easily. Realistically speaking, Roe v Wade has always been on incredibily weak Constitutional ground and this could be the shove that breaks it apart. I don't think though this will be the boon that the religious agenda thinks it will be. I think it will backfire in a big way and all the ground they gained in taking over the government will be lost.
Once people realize this type of law will spread from state to state the same way the anti-gay bills have, many will give pause. Unlike like gay marriage, this type of action directly effects everyone. Its one thing to be all high and mighty when it doesn't effect you, its another when it does.
The main problem I have with the law is it still doesn't accomplish anything. I think I am like most pro-choicers in that we have the same goal - to end abortion. We just differ on the means. We also have more realistic expectations. We know abortion will never end. Things can be done to reduce the number done every year. Things can also be done so that when an abortion is done, its done safetly, in a sterile environment, by trained doctors. I think few want a return to pre-1978 conditions of back room abortions done by anyone with a knife.
We also feel that the mothers rights supercede the potential babies rights. If pro-life, that view is the opposite (with rare exceptions but only because forced to). For me it goes even further. We all know the horror stories when parents are forced to be parents. If the mom doesn't want to be a mom, glad she knows it, better then her creating the next monstor in a plethora that this society already deals with. If I thought the child services system could handle all the babies, that might make me feel better, but it can't handle the load it has now, much less the load that will be created if in the grand utopia pro-lifers envision, all conceived babies are born.
Pro-choice is considered a liberal agenda. Pro-life a conservative one. The interesting thing about this is while the "baby" is in the mother, its a conservative problem, but the moment its born, it becomes a liberal problem with concerns over its care, feeding, education and all those other issues.
I have to give South Dakota credit though. This will probably go to the Supreme Court and with the court makeup as it is now, it will probably past muster easily. Realistically speaking, Roe v Wade has always been on incredibily weak Constitutional ground and this could be the shove that breaks it apart. I don't think though this will be the boon that the religious agenda thinks it will be. I think it will backfire in a big way and all the ground they gained in taking over the government will be lost.
Thursday, March 02, 2006
Nancy Grace's history a myth?
A write-up came out on the observer.com that puts forth the idea that Nancy Grace's great motivation, the death of her fiance, was in fact largely exaggerated. If ever watch this women on CNN she is a this loud, obnoxious, "I know it all" type who clearly often knows and understands little. She also like to bring up whenever she can, as often she can, how over 25 years ago she was a "victim". Actually the BF that died was the larger victim that that is neither here nor there to her.
Her story is that basically the justice system failed her, that her boyfriend's killer, a thief basically got away with murder after appealing the case. Turns out that the killer was a friend of the boyfriend, mentally retarded, never tried to appeal and is sitting in jail. When asked about this, she claims she couldn't be bothered to find out about the killer.
Does that make since to you? Here she is using this moment as a defining moment of her life that set her on the path of rightousness and she can't even be bothered to get the details right? It sounds more like she created a history with a kernal of truth and through the constant and frequent retelling of the lies, she has literally talked herself into believing the lies are the truth. When people do that, there is only one word to describe them - pathetic.
Her story is that basically the justice system failed her, that her boyfriend's killer, a thief basically got away with murder after appealing the case. Turns out that the killer was a friend of the boyfriend, mentally retarded, never tried to appeal and is sitting in jail. When asked about this, she claims she couldn't be bothered to find out about the killer.
Does that make since to you? Here she is using this moment as a defining moment of her life that set her on the path of rightousness and she can't even be bothered to get the details right? It sounds more like she created a history with a kernal of truth and through the constant and frequent retelling of the lies, she has literally talked herself into believing the lies are the truth. When people do that, there is only one word to describe them - pathetic.
Wednesday, March 01, 2006
NES Super Mario Bros racing
Go here, for a fabulous video of two people racing to beat the orginial Super Mario Bros. for the NES. Its best with sound as the audience is happily cheering them on.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)