More mini TV reviews.
Boston Legal - Don't even remember what happened. Call it the same o.
NCIS - Decent episode as the various loves of Gibbs gets together and creates ackwardness for him. Oh and someone was murdered but was caught.
Beauty and the Geek - Sign the shallow but gorgeous Rebecca was kicked from the show. It seems the hottest women are the ones going first. Otherwise the show still isn't as good as the first season as there seems to be no growth from anyone on the program.
Reaper - Ew bugs. At least in the beginning wiht a roach. After that if thankfully changed to crappy CGI bees. I don't even remember the gist of the story but was entertained.
Bones - Someone was killed. Someone was caught. I think. I tuned out half of it.
House - Hilarious. The Survivor motif (complete with flaming bunsun burners) could have fallen flat but instead it been incredibly entertaining and at this point I am going to be disppointed when the field is reduced to three as like most of the remaining "contestants". Its also contines to explore House in solid ways and amazingly enough showed how his previous three students where influenced by him. All in all, writing at its finest.
Law & Orde: SVU - Melissa Joan Hart guests as a teacher accused of statutory rape only to turn out to have been raped, given the clap, got preggers by the rapist, who turned out to be addicted to sex and can't control himself. He in turn is raped by an adult male just like him and settles for 1 million dollars. Basically the typical convuluted, tragic, but excellent SVU episode.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Week 3 New Season 10/8
How I Met Your Mother - Danica McKellar. Still yummy as all get out and my jr high crush may become my adulthood crush.
CSI: Miami - Horatio's son is in trouble. Someone is murdered but it all works out in the end. Basically the same as every other episode. Yet I watch.
Prison Break - Sarah is officially dead, her head removed as a consequence of Lincoln attempting to break them out. In real life it was the result of the actress choosing to be a stay at home and raise her new child. Since she was "captured", keeping her off screen for a season or more would have been ludicrous leaving death as the only solution. Oh and the plans for the break continue.
Chuck - Chuck clumsily stops a beautiful arms dealer. The show is very entertaining and if not watching it, you should be.
Heroes - If you missed the last two episodes, well don't worry you haven't missed anything. For whatever reason, the pace so far this season is very very slow with very little development both character and storywise. Hopefully its intentional but two episodes (so far) of nada is not a good thing.
Journeyman - Decent episode but this show is toast, no way around it.
CSI: Miami - Horatio's son is in trouble. Someone is murdered but it all works out in the end. Basically the same as every other episode. Yet I watch.
Prison Break - Sarah is officially dead, her head removed as a consequence of Lincoln attempting to break them out. In real life it was the result of the actress choosing to be a stay at home and raise her new child. Since she was "captured", keeping her off screen for a season or more would have been ludicrous leaving death as the only solution. Oh and the plans for the break continue.
Chuck - Chuck clumsily stops a beautiful arms dealer. The show is very entertaining and if not watching it, you should be.
Heroes - If you missed the last two episodes, well don't worry you haven't missed anything. For whatever reason, the pace so far this season is very very slow with very little development both character and storywise. Hopefully its intentional but two episodes (so far) of nada is not a good thing.
Journeyman - Decent episode but this show is toast, no way around it.
Week 3 New Season 10/7
Week 3 has begun. Some shows should begin showing that they have started to find their sea legs and others may show how they are running on steam.
Desperate Housewives - At this point I just watch for the women and tend to do other things while this is on. Its still recycling stories and its just getting more and more boring.
Brothers & Sisters - I ...don't know why I keep watching this show to be honest. Its another one that I use mostly as background noise while doing other things.
Cold Case - Another murdered solved. Robyn Lively, a childhood crush, was looking pretty rough though as an Amish mother. Maybe it was the makeup (applied to not look like she had makeup on) but she just looked really tired.
Shark - Stuff happened. People where yelled out, justice was servred, and the attractive daughter continues to annoy.
Simpsons - Entertaining but goofy
King of the Hill - Entertaining
Family Guy - Hilarious but bizarre as all get out.
American Dad - Kind of tuned out this ep.
Desperate Housewives - At this point I just watch for the women and tend to do other things while this is on. Its still recycling stories and its just getting more and more boring.
Brothers & Sisters - I ...don't know why I keep watching this show to be honest. Its another one that I use mostly as background noise while doing other things.
Cold Case - Another murdered solved. Robyn Lively, a childhood crush, was looking pretty rough though as an Amish mother. Maybe it was the makeup (applied to not look like she had makeup on) but she just looked really tired.
Shark - Stuff happened. People where yelled out, justice was servred, and the attractive daughter continues to annoy.
Simpsons - Entertaining but goofy
King of the Hill - Entertaining
Family Guy - Hilarious but bizarre as all get out.
American Dad - Kind of tuned out this ep.
Saturday, October 06, 2007
Week 2 New Season 10/5
TGIF!
Moonlight - The show has potential. This episode was pretty entertaining. Getting into the life, both past and present, of the vampire is not a bad idea. Getting into their "culture" would be even better. Sadly I doubt this show will last mid-season.
Numbers - Same o.
Friday Night Lights - A character committs murder. Technically it was self-defense but really he would be tossed in the slammer. For a show about football, this is a little too deep to be frank. Its a jump the shark moment to me. Which is pretty bad for a season 2 show. Also Lila is a born again. At least they have the fervency correct as born again don't have the life long filter so tend to take it way to far. It also makes for boring TV. Another bad choice. Then you have the coach who hasn't seen his family for 9 months because the writers last season wrote themselves into a stupid corner. Clearly, over the course of the next few eps, the current Panthers coach will take things to far and get fired. The hero coach, missing his family, will come back. Still it has Connie Britton who is a goddess. I like a lot of hotties on TV but she is the queen to me. Yummy
Las Vegas - Stuff happened. Don't remember what because I got bored. This season just isn't that interesting. I think it because the personal lives of the characters is most of the show now rather then some of the show. Also the fun is gone or at least dimisished. Something is missing and no its not Caan or god forbid that skeleton Nikki Cox. No the writing is missing something.
Stargate: Atlantis - The heroes win this battle once again. Sure its predictable but has great special effects, highly entertaining and really nothing similar on TV right now.
Moonlight - The show has potential. This episode was pretty entertaining. Getting into the life, both past and present, of the vampire is not a bad idea. Getting into their "culture" would be even better. Sadly I doubt this show will last mid-season.
Numbers - Same o.
Friday Night Lights - A character committs murder. Technically it was self-defense but really he would be tossed in the slammer. For a show about football, this is a little too deep to be frank. Its a jump the shark moment to me. Which is pretty bad for a season 2 show. Also Lila is a born again. At least they have the fervency correct as born again don't have the life long filter so tend to take it way to far. It also makes for boring TV. Another bad choice. Then you have the coach who hasn't seen his family for 9 months because the writers last season wrote themselves into a stupid corner. Clearly, over the course of the next few eps, the current Panthers coach will take things to far and get fired. The hero coach, missing his family, will come back. Still it has Connie Britton who is a goddess. I like a lot of hotties on TV but she is the queen to me. Yummy
Las Vegas - Stuff happened. Don't remember what because I got bored. This season just isn't that interesting. I think it because the personal lives of the characters is most of the show now rather then some of the show. Also the fun is gone or at least dimisished. Something is missing and no its not Caan or god forbid that skeleton Nikki Cox. No the writing is missing something.
Stargate: Atlantis - The heroes win this battle once again. Sure its predictable but has great special effects, highly entertaining and really nothing similar on TV right now.
Week 2 New Season 10/4
More mini-thoughts on the new season.
Ugly Betty - I don't even remember it was about I was so bored by it.
Grey's Anatomy - People where said. People want to hook up, others want to break up. Basically the same story as the previous 3 seasons. Does have Chyler Leigh though who is an poorly used hottie.
Big Shots - The show is ok. Its cute but not much else. Do like the gorgeous female cast led by the stunning Paige Turco and the lovely eyed Peyton List. I would rather the show focus on the female cast then the male frankly.
Survivor: China - Someone got kicked off the island.
CSI - Not bad episode. Kind of gross, with a guy losing his head to tire debris.
Without A Trace - Something happened. Don't know, faded out towards the end.
Smallville - Officially introduced Supergirl played by Laura Vandervoort. At a distance, the girl is gorgeous. Close up, the body is fantastic but the face not so much. The acting, well lets just say she needs some more schooling. For me though the hottie of the show remains Allison Mack.
Supernatural - Off to a banging start with the heroes going after the 7 Deadly Sins...but didn't know it. Its seems the goal of the show is to up the danger anty. Also nice is the Dean character has one year to live and his reaction is to basically eat and screw who he wants. For TV thats an oddly realistic reaction. Also amusingly handled on this show.
My Name is Earl - Early and his bro, back together again behind bars. Also gay prison dudes. It was funny thought.
30 Rock - The Seinfeld episode. Handled pretty well actually. Seinfeld seemed to cheerfully make fun of himself and the show enjoyed beating up on NBC.
The Office - Eh, it was alright. Didn't laugh that much.
ER - Same o.
Ugly Betty - I don't even remember it was about I was so bored by it.
Grey's Anatomy - People where said. People want to hook up, others want to break up. Basically the same story as the previous 3 seasons. Does have Chyler Leigh though who is an poorly used hottie.
Big Shots - The show is ok. Its cute but not much else. Do like the gorgeous female cast led by the stunning Paige Turco and the lovely eyed Peyton List. I would rather the show focus on the female cast then the male frankly.
Survivor: China - Someone got kicked off the island.
CSI - Not bad episode. Kind of gross, with a guy losing his head to tire debris.
Without A Trace - Something happened. Don't know, faded out towards the end.
Smallville - Officially introduced Supergirl played by Laura Vandervoort. At a distance, the girl is gorgeous. Close up, the body is fantastic but the face not so much. The acting, well lets just say she needs some more schooling. For me though the hottie of the show remains Allison Mack.
Supernatural - Off to a banging start with the heroes going after the 7 Deadly Sins...but didn't know it. Its seems the goal of the show is to up the danger anty. Also nice is the Dean character has one year to live and his reaction is to basically eat and screw who he wants. For TV thats an oddly realistic reaction. Also amusingly handled on this show.
My Name is Earl - Early and his bro, back together again behind bars. Also gay prison dudes. It was funny thought.
30 Rock - The Seinfeld episode. Handled pretty well actually. Seinfeld seemed to cheerfully make fun of himself and the show enjoyed beating up on NBC.
The Office - Eh, it was alright. Didn't laugh that much.
ER - Same o.
Thursday, October 04, 2007
Week 2 New Season 10/3
Another day, more random thoughts on TV stuff.
Pushing Daisies - Good new show. Very creative. It reminds me of Tim Burton in its quirky but not as dark style. Anna Faris looks good. One major plot point of the story is how the hero can't touch the love of his life or she will die again. Considering the danger shouldn't he wear long sleeve shirts and gloves? Or at least have some distance between them? Something as simple as tripping and its all over for her. I don't know why but that just bothers me. Anyway, the show has a lot of potential. A good pilot, but are the rest as good and will the premise hold your attention? That part is undecided for me.
Private Practice - I want to like this show. It means well. One main problem is the male characters are more engaging then the female characters. That's not a good thing. Also its a little to emotional for me. For a room full of doctors they sure do leave the logic circuits on standby alot. One more ep and then I give up on it.
Dirty Sexy Money - Same thing as last week. The whining of the rich and famous just isn't that compelling. Zoe McCellan continues to make me drool. Short hair works on her. Love her look with long more, but the short is working and not many women can pull that off. More of her and I might like the show more.
Criminal Minds - The final exit of Mandy Patinkin. Considering the way he left the show, he got a relatively classy exit. Most would have him die in some unflattering form or fashion but he just exited as he left - unsure and in search of himself. Hats off to the creators for that.
CSI: NY - Same o same o. Don't even remember what it was about. I am guessing someone was murdered and caught. Actually that brings to mind a major complaint (beyond the usual CSI's do everything, why do they have cops and detectives again), is the 100% capture record. Have them fail. Have them not catch the bad guy, not solve the crime. A little more realism, especially for a show set in New York, wouldn't be a bad thing.
Back To You - Funny but formula sitcom. Its entertains me and is quickly forgotten about.
Bionic Women - This show is going to get cancelled. Its a shame but its on its death legs and doesn't even know it. Its not the fault of the concept or the actors. The skeleton is solid. The problem is the writers. I said it before and will say it again. They don't know what to do. They have no idea how to add meat to the bones. The show is suffering from a lack of imagination. Its just do darn formula for a show that should break the formula. The rules need to be tossed out and killing the boyfriend from a shoulder wound isn't a start. Lose the sister, lose the angst. Create a sense of mystery. Create real villains and dangers. Use the powers in unique ways. Don't know how to do that, take a turn from the other shows such as Heroes and Lost - hire a comic book writer. They have the minds to go in weird directions. Use em. It may be to late though. Sadly I think its damage done.
Life - I am sticking to this show. Its quirky and entertaining. I don't see it lasting the season as its strange enough that audiences will not stick with it, but I plan on enjoying it. Besides Sarah Shahi makes for some fantastic eye candy. If the show wants to last though, the central mystery, who framed Charlie, needs to be stepped out and doled out less carefully. Creators have got to learn that they have a short window to grab the audience. Instead of worrying about what they will do when the show reaches season 5, they need to worry about making it to episode 5. That means play your cards. Play them furiousily. Don't hold back. If you get picked up, get the ratings, then you can worry about where going to get a new deck. If your concept is solid enough, it should help you come up with a new deck on its own.
South Park - Still outrageious, still entertaining and funny as all get out. Better then any five sitcoms on TV in my opinion.
Pushing Daisies - Good new show. Very creative. It reminds me of Tim Burton in its quirky but not as dark style. Anna Faris looks good. One major plot point of the story is how the hero can't touch the love of his life or she will die again. Considering the danger shouldn't he wear long sleeve shirts and gloves? Or at least have some distance between them? Something as simple as tripping and its all over for her. I don't know why but that just bothers me. Anyway, the show has a lot of potential. A good pilot, but are the rest as good and will the premise hold your attention? That part is undecided for me.
Private Practice - I want to like this show. It means well. One main problem is the male characters are more engaging then the female characters. That's not a good thing. Also its a little to emotional for me. For a room full of doctors they sure do leave the logic circuits on standby alot. One more ep and then I give up on it.
Dirty Sexy Money - Same thing as last week. The whining of the rich and famous just isn't that compelling. Zoe McCellan continues to make me drool. Short hair works on her. Love her look with long more, but the short is working and not many women can pull that off. More of her and I might like the show more.
Criminal Minds - The final exit of Mandy Patinkin. Considering the way he left the show, he got a relatively classy exit. Most would have him die in some unflattering form or fashion but he just exited as he left - unsure and in search of himself. Hats off to the creators for that.
CSI: NY - Same o same o. Don't even remember what it was about. I am guessing someone was murdered and caught. Actually that brings to mind a major complaint (beyond the usual CSI's do everything, why do they have cops and detectives again), is the 100% capture record. Have them fail. Have them not catch the bad guy, not solve the crime. A little more realism, especially for a show set in New York, wouldn't be a bad thing.
Back To You - Funny but formula sitcom. Its entertains me and is quickly forgotten about.
Bionic Women - This show is going to get cancelled. Its a shame but its on its death legs and doesn't even know it. Its not the fault of the concept or the actors. The skeleton is solid. The problem is the writers. I said it before and will say it again. They don't know what to do. They have no idea how to add meat to the bones. The show is suffering from a lack of imagination. Its just do darn formula for a show that should break the formula. The rules need to be tossed out and killing the boyfriend from a shoulder wound isn't a start. Lose the sister, lose the angst. Create a sense of mystery. Create real villains and dangers. Use the powers in unique ways. Don't know how to do that, take a turn from the other shows such as Heroes and Lost - hire a comic book writer. They have the minds to go in weird directions. Use em. It may be to late though. Sadly I think its damage done.
Life - I am sticking to this show. Its quirky and entertaining. I don't see it lasting the season as its strange enough that audiences will not stick with it, but I plan on enjoying it. Besides Sarah Shahi makes for some fantastic eye candy. If the show wants to last though, the central mystery, who framed Charlie, needs to be stepped out and doled out less carefully. Creators have got to learn that they have a short window to grab the audience. Instead of worrying about what they will do when the show reaches season 5, they need to worry about making it to episode 5. That means play your cards. Play them furiousily. Don't hold back. If you get picked up, get the ratings, then you can worry about where going to get a new deck. If your concept is solid enough, it should help you come up with a new deck on its own.
South Park - Still outrageious, still entertaining and funny as all get out. Better then any five sitcoms on TV in my opinion.
Week 2 New Season 10/2
NCIS - Still entertaining. Watch one ep, liked it, probably like rest as all the same. Doing some story arc thing with Denoso (however you spell it) having found and lost love but its not dragging anything down. Where most shows would make it the focus, here its just a subplot.
Beauty and the Geek - I have decided that Rebecca is my new favorite. Because she is the prettiest. That's the only reason. If went for brains I would be SOL after all.
Bones - Same o same o. Just read the first book featuring the character Temperance and it turns out the book character and the show character are nothing alike except in job title. The book Tempe was married, has a child, has social skills and lot longer list then that. It get the impression that someone came up with the autopsy person solves crimes angle. Fox, figuring that might be a lawsuit waiting to happen, attached themselves to Kathy Reichs and simply renamed the lead. This gave them a built in audience from the book and saved them from getting sued. Sounds like a grand conspiracy but really the ONLY similarities between the book and the show is the job title, name, and mystery genre. The rest is all new from the show's creator and writers.
Reaper - I am digging this show. Very entertaining, creative, and humorous. Its got it all going on. Might be my favorite new show of the season. So it will probably get cancelled.
House - Liking Survivor style House. Humorous, little ruthless, have a few characters wouldn't mind he keeps including the two main women, Olivia Wilde and the other one. I don't like the return of the original 3. They where fired, time to move on. Also for Mrs. Morrison, blond hair is not doing her any favors. Last year it was the skeletor look, this year its the dumb blonde look. None makes her look as beautiful as she did that first season.
Boston Legal - I honestly don't know why I watch this show. Its so damn silly. Yet I still do it.
Law & Order: SVU - Same o same o, once again in a good way. I am thinking Second Life didn't like this episode with the implications that predators might use the site to find victims.
Beauty and the Geek - I have decided that Rebecca is my new favorite. Because she is the prettiest. That's the only reason. If went for brains I would be SOL after all.
Bones - Same o same o. Just read the first book featuring the character Temperance and it turns out the book character and the show character are nothing alike except in job title. The book Tempe was married, has a child, has social skills and lot longer list then that. It get the impression that someone came up with the autopsy person solves crimes angle. Fox, figuring that might be a lawsuit waiting to happen, attached themselves to Kathy Reichs and simply renamed the lead. This gave them a built in audience from the book and saved them from getting sued. Sounds like a grand conspiracy but really the ONLY similarities between the book and the show is the job title, name, and mystery genre. The rest is all new from the show's creator and writers.
Reaper - I am digging this show. Very entertaining, creative, and humorous. Its got it all going on. Might be my favorite new show of the season. So it will probably get cancelled.
House - Liking Survivor style House. Humorous, little ruthless, have a few characters wouldn't mind he keeps including the two main women, Olivia Wilde and the other one. I don't like the return of the original 3. They where fired, time to move on. Also for Mrs. Morrison, blond hair is not doing her any favors. Last year it was the skeletor look, this year its the dumb blonde look. None makes her look as beautiful as she did that first season.
Boston Legal - I honestly don't know why I watch this show. Its so damn silly. Yet I still do it.
Law & Order: SVU - Same o same o, once again in a good way. I am thinking Second Life didn't like this episode with the implications that predators might use the site to find victims.
Week 2 New Season 10/2
NCIS - STill entertaining. Watch one ep, liked it, probably like rest as all the same. Doing some storyarc thing with Denoso (however you spell it) having found and lost love but its not dragging anything down. Where most shows would make it the focus, here its just a subplot.
Beauty and the Geek - I have decided that Rebecca is my new favorite. Because she is the prettiest. Thats the only reason. If went for brains I would be SOL afterall.
Bones - Same o same o. Just read the first book featuring the character Temperance and it turns out the book character and the show character are nothing alike except in job title. The book Tempe was married, has a child, has social skills and lot longer list then that. It get the impression that someone came up with the autopsy person solves crimes angle. Fox, figuring that might be a lawsuit waiting to happen, attached themselves to Kathy Reichs and simply renamed the lead. This gave them a built in audience from the book and saved them from getting sued. Sounds like a grand conspiracy but really the ONLY similarities between the book and the show is the job title, name, and mystery genre. The rest is all new from the show's creator and writers.
Reaper - I am digging this show. Very entertaining, creative, and humourous. Its got it all going on. Might be my favorite new show of the season. So it will probably get cancelled.
House - Liking Survivor style House. Humorous, little ruthless, have a few characters wouldn't mind he keeps including the two main women, Olivia Wilde and the other one. I don't like the return of the originial 3. They where fired, time to move on. Also for Mrs. Morrison, blond hair is not doing her any favors. Last year it was the skeletor look, this year its the dumb blonde look. None makes her look as beautiful as she did that first season.
Boston Legal - I honestly don't know why I watch this show. Its so damn silly. Yet I still do it.
Law & Order: SVU - Same o same o, once again in a good way. I am thinking Second Life didn't like this episode with the implications that predators might use the site to find victims.
Beauty and the Geek - I have decided that Rebecca is my new favorite. Because she is the prettiest. Thats the only reason. If went for brains I would be SOL afterall.
Bones - Same o same o. Just read the first book featuring the character Temperance and it turns out the book character and the show character are nothing alike except in job title. The book Tempe was married, has a child, has social skills and lot longer list then that. It get the impression that someone came up with the autopsy person solves crimes angle. Fox, figuring that might be a lawsuit waiting to happen, attached themselves to Kathy Reichs and simply renamed the lead. This gave them a built in audience from the book and saved them from getting sued. Sounds like a grand conspiracy but really the ONLY similarities between the book and the show is the job title, name, and mystery genre. The rest is all new from the show's creator and writers.
Reaper - I am digging this show. Very entertaining, creative, and humourous. Its got it all going on. Might be my favorite new show of the season. So it will probably get cancelled.
House - Liking Survivor style House. Humorous, little ruthless, have a few characters wouldn't mind he keeps including the two main women, Olivia Wilde and the other one. I don't like the return of the originial 3. They where fired, time to move on. Also for Mrs. Morrison, blond hair is not doing her any favors. Last year it was the skeletor look, this year its the dumb blonde look. None makes her look as beautiful as she did that first season.
Boston Legal - I honestly don't know why I watch this show. Its so damn silly. Yet I still do it.
Law & Order: SVU - Same o same o, once again in a good way. I am thinking Second Life didn't like this episode with the implications that predators might use the site to find victims.
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Week 2 New Season 10/1
The second week has started and get to continue the mini reviews and more shows take a bow and other shows prove if they have legs or not. The pilots are not always proof of a show's full potential after all. Sometimes an entire season isn't, even thought I doubt the networks will have patience to wait that long.
How I Met Your Mother - Not much to say. I laughed and I laughed some more. Last week was good. This week was good. Chances are so will the next few weeks. I am however glad that they have ended the other boyfriend subplot for Robin (hmmm Cobie Smulders).
Prison Break - The first season prison break was exciting, new and complicated. The third season prison break is getting pretty darn dull and seems familiar...like the first season. The show is good but I wish it would move along a little faster. Well are the puzzles, the problems etc that would be worth watching.
Chuck - A am digging this show. Its very entertaining and good. Its moving along the Chuck has secrets subplot, getting him use to being a target and having secrets. Based on the preview it looks like the next ep he gets thrown in the deep end. Should be good and funny. Part of the reason though enjoying the show is the delightful eye candy combo of Yvonne Strzechowsky (oh those eyes) and little used Sarah Lancaster (oh that smile). Much crushing going on.
Heroes - This season seems to be going alot slower then last season. More carefully paced, not sure if that's a good thing or not. One subplot already tired of is the twin subplot. Last year the nuclear man knew he was a danger to others and tried to control his powers in seclusion. This year we have an emotional trainwreck that seems to have no problem risking killing those around her. Not attempt at control, no attempt at seclusion, no real concern for others really. Normally we would call that psychotic behavior but here, because her bro loves her and she cries alot, its supposed to be tragic. The character's body count is already greater then Silar's and already irredeemable. Worse this subplot is boring. Kill the twins and move on to something interesting!
Journeyman - I watched the pilot because of Moon Bloodgood. She is a talented knockout in need of a hit. Sadly this probably isn't going to be it. Chances are it will not survive the month. Which is a shame as this show has a great deal of potential, I think it just needs better writers. The present day wife in distress dealing with the time traveling husband is not terribly interesting. Also the consequences of his time traveling interference is minor at best. That worked in the days of Quantum Leap but now it has to have meat. There has to be consequences good and bad. Also there should be no guarantees of success. I guess what I mean is the show lacks stakes. Show the domino effect. Show the changes that are being wrought. Make it count.
CSI: Miami - Its CSI, same as last week. Nothing new to add.
How I Met Your Mother - Not much to say. I laughed and I laughed some more. Last week was good. This week was good. Chances are so will the next few weeks. I am however glad that they have ended the other boyfriend subplot for Robin (hmmm Cobie Smulders).
Prison Break - The first season prison break was exciting, new and complicated. The third season prison break is getting pretty darn dull and seems familiar...like the first season. The show is good but I wish it would move along a little faster. Well are the puzzles, the problems etc that would be worth watching.
Chuck - A am digging this show. Its very entertaining and good. Its moving along the Chuck has secrets subplot, getting him use to being a target and having secrets. Based on the preview it looks like the next ep he gets thrown in the deep end. Should be good and funny. Part of the reason though enjoying the show is the delightful eye candy combo of Yvonne Strzechowsky (oh those eyes) and little used Sarah Lancaster (oh that smile). Much crushing going on.
Heroes - This season seems to be going alot slower then last season. More carefully paced, not sure if that's a good thing or not. One subplot already tired of is the twin subplot. Last year the nuclear man knew he was a danger to others and tried to control his powers in seclusion. This year we have an emotional trainwreck that seems to have no problem risking killing those around her. Not attempt at control, no attempt at seclusion, no real concern for others really. Normally we would call that psychotic behavior but here, because her bro loves her and she cries alot, its supposed to be tragic. The character's body count is already greater then Silar's and already irredeemable. Worse this subplot is boring. Kill the twins and move on to something interesting!
Journeyman - I watched the pilot because of Moon Bloodgood. She is a talented knockout in need of a hit. Sadly this probably isn't going to be it. Chances are it will not survive the month. Which is a shame as this show has a great deal of potential, I think it just needs better writers. The present day wife in distress dealing with the time traveling husband is not terribly interesting. Also the consequences of his time traveling interference is minor at best. That worked in the days of Quantum Leap but now it has to have meat. There has to be consequences good and bad. Also there should be no guarantees of success. I guess what I mean is the show lacks stakes. Show the domino effect. Show the changes that are being wrought. Make it count.
CSI: Miami - Its CSI, same as last week. Nothing new to add.
Monday, October 01, 2007
Videos: Legos and Dice Stacking
Click here for a video of a team putting together the new LEGO Millennium Falcon that is made up of about 5000 pieces. Total time for the group was 2 hours 53 minutes. Makes you wonder how long it takes for one person to do it.
Below is a Lego automatic flusher built from NXT Mindstorms system, for those that want the retail flushing experience.
Click here for a slick time lapse video that shows skillful and very fast dice manipulation. Not sure what use the skill is, but still impressive.
Below is a Lego automatic flusher built from NXT Mindstorms system, for those that want the retail flushing experience.
Click here for a slick time lapse video that shows skillful and very fast dice manipulation. Not sure what use the skill is, but still impressive.
AT&T Contracted Censorship
AT&T has a new terms of service for its subscribers that basically declares that if you speak will of the company they can terminate your service.
"AT&T may immediately terminate or suspend all or a portion of your Service, any Member ID, electronic mail address, IP address, Universal Resource Locator or domain name used by you, without notice, for conduct that AT&T believes ... tends to damage the name or reputation of AT&T, or its parents, affiliates and subsidiaries."
Key words is "believes" and "damages...AT&T". Problem with the world "believes" in legal documentation is its wide open for interpretation and can include anything and everything under the sun including this point.
I am not worried though, between AT&T's war on net neutrality, general bad business practices, price gouging, poor customer service and so on, I have and hope to avoid ever being their customer. I want an iPhone but its not worth dealing with AT&T.
Realistically, I doubt this will be enforced (unless you just generally piss people off at AT&T say with lawsuits) but if its not something they tend to actively enforce why have it at all and why in those terms? Why do they create terms that police what the customers may or may not say about the company? All in all its just bad customer relations, but being a virtual monopoly with congress in the back pocket, I guess it doesn't matter.
"AT&T may immediately terminate or suspend all or a portion of your Service, any Member ID, electronic mail address, IP address, Universal Resource Locator or domain name used by you, without notice, for conduct that AT&T believes ... tends to damage the name or reputation of AT&T, or its parents, affiliates and subsidiaries."
Key words is "believes" and "damages...AT&T". Problem with the world "believes" in legal documentation is its wide open for interpretation and can include anything and everything under the sun including this point.
I am not worried though, between AT&T's war on net neutrality, general bad business practices, price gouging, poor customer service and so on, I have and hope to avoid ever being their customer. I want an iPhone but its not worth dealing with AT&T.
Realistically, I doubt this will be enforced (unless you just generally piss people off at AT&T say with lawsuits) but if its not something they tend to actively enforce why have it at all and why in those terms? Why do they create terms that police what the customers may or may not say about the company? All in all its just bad customer relations, but being a virtual monopoly with congress in the back pocket, I guess it doesn't matter.
New Season 9/30
Whee Sunday with the return of stuff.
Desperate Housewives - Women are hot. Everyone has secrets. So and so forth. Last few seasons redux.
Brothers and Sisters - Hmmm Emily VanCamp. Other people do stuff to. Its a meladrama with a good sense of humor. Like ER, I record it and just watch the storylines interested in and skip the rest.
Cold Case - Its the same crime drama its been for many seasons now. If liked it in the past will now.
Shark - I watch it but sometimes don't know why. Woods is the usual scenary chewer which is actually getting to be a bit one note. One of those that will watch if have time but if I miss it, don't feel like I missed anything.
Gossip Girl - I want to like this show. Watched two eps now. The women are hot. The two main lead characters Dan and Serena (Blake Lively gorgeous sister of the gorgeous Robyn Lively) have good on screen chemsistry. When the show is focused on them its gets more interseting. As soon as it drifts to the supporting cast it gets dull and silly. Probably going to pass on this one.
Simpsons - Same as the previous 18 seasons. I still see it as must see tv.
King of the Hill - If this show was a life action comedy it would have already won more then a few Emmys. Great cartoon.
Family Guy - Over the top as always creating great entertaining television.
American Dad - Eh my interest comes and goes. Sometimes its funny other times its just to silly.
Dexter - The plot gets thicker as the watery grave of Dexter's kills are discovered. That plot alone is enough to fuel an entire season but sure all kinds of other things will be going on. One of the programs look forward to each Sunday.
Desperate Housewives - Women are hot. Everyone has secrets. So and so forth. Last few seasons redux.
Brothers and Sisters - Hmmm Emily VanCamp. Other people do stuff to. Its a meladrama with a good sense of humor. Like ER, I record it and just watch the storylines interested in and skip the rest.
Cold Case - Its the same crime drama its been for many seasons now. If liked it in the past will now.
Shark - I watch it but sometimes don't know why. Woods is the usual scenary chewer which is actually getting to be a bit one note. One of those that will watch if have time but if I miss it, don't feel like I missed anything.
Gossip Girl - I want to like this show. Watched two eps now. The women are hot. The two main lead characters Dan and Serena (Blake Lively gorgeous sister of the gorgeous Robyn Lively) have good on screen chemsistry. When the show is focused on them its gets more interseting. As soon as it drifts to the supporting cast it gets dull and silly. Probably going to pass on this one.
Simpsons - Same as the previous 18 seasons. I still see it as must see tv.
King of the Hill - If this show was a life action comedy it would have already won more then a few Emmys. Great cartoon.
Family Guy - Over the top as always creating great entertaining television.
American Dad - Eh my interest comes and goes. Sometimes its funny other times its just to silly.
Dexter - The plot gets thicker as the watery grave of Dexter's kills are discovered. That plot alone is enough to fuel an entire season but sure all kinds of other things will be going on. One of the programs look forward to each Sunday.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
New Season 9/28
First Friday of the new season and not as much new stuff as the previous days.
Moonlight - Vampire investigator, shades of Angel. But not as good or compelling. Its pretty average vampire stuff, but nothing like this on television currently so points there. Will give it a few more eps to grab my attention more.
Numbers - Same as the previous seasons. The wonders of math (and most probably exaggerated and not true). I liked it last season so probably will this season.
Las Vegas - James Caan (darn) and anarexic plastic surgery loving Nikki Cox are gone. Replaced by Tom Selleck. Who plays a cowboy. Literally. In both look and approach. To soon to tell if it too stupid to get past or just stupid enough to entertain. Ultimately Las Vegas remains popcorn movie of television. Its not there to study the human condition or teach. It just wants to entertain and most of the time it does just that.
Stargate: Atlantis - Sigh I miss Stargate. It did its job well - be entertaining. Atlantis does to, just not as well as the orginial. Still they do what no other show does on television (now) and have great cliffhangers and over the top story telling. Some compare it to Star Trek and Star Wars which isn't a fair comparison. Its not meant to be them. It just wants to tell a lot of stories in its own universe in an enteraining way which I have enjoyed immensely for 10 years and plan to continue to do so.
Moonlight - Vampire investigator, shades of Angel. But not as good or compelling. Its pretty average vampire stuff, but nothing like this on television currently so points there. Will give it a few more eps to grab my attention more.
Numbers - Same as the previous seasons. The wonders of math (and most probably exaggerated and not true). I liked it last season so probably will this season.
Las Vegas - James Caan (darn) and anarexic plastic surgery loving Nikki Cox are gone. Replaced by Tom Selleck. Who plays a cowboy. Literally. In both look and approach. To soon to tell if it too stupid to get past or just stupid enough to entertain. Ultimately Las Vegas remains popcorn movie of television. Its not there to study the human condition or teach. It just wants to entertain and most of the time it does just that.
Stargate: Atlantis - Sigh I miss Stargate. It did its job well - be entertaining. Atlantis does to, just not as well as the orginial. Still they do what no other show does on television (now) and have great cliffhangers and over the top story telling. Some compare it to Star Trek and Star Wars which isn't a fair comparison. Its not meant to be them. It just wants to tell a lot of stories in its own universe in an enteraining way which I have enjoyed immensely for 10 years and plan to continue to do so.
Friday, September 28, 2007
New Season 9/27
Ah the crowded Thursday. So many channels so little VCRs.
My Name Is Earl - Continues to be funny. The delicious Jamie Pressley continues to chew scenery.
The Office - I am entertained by the show but I notice I don't actually laugh that much. Its one of those that if I missed it, I wouldn't particularly care.
ER - Its ER. The formula hasn't changed a bit with just enough interesting characters to overcome the crappy ones. With the help of the trusty remote can usually speed through an hour ep in about half hour by skipping the uninteresting story arcs of the ep.
Smallville - Drool, the lovely and gorgeous Allison Mack. Her character continues to be the emotional center of the show and she continues to show why with acting skills that far far outpaces the others. I was entertained by the ending teaser with Supergirl flying...well they might want to spend a little more on those flying effects.
CSI - The original remains the best. Sara remains alive (darn) but the episode was intense and well paced. Remains on the must see list.
Without a Trace - More episodes I watch the less interested I keep becoming. Even the introduction of James Marsters may not be enough to keep me watching through the season.
Ugly Betty - More of the same of first season and thats not a good thing. Lot of storyline recyling and I am simply getting bored with it.
Grey's Anatomy - Me thinks the launching of Private Practice is running the writing staff and others ragged as its clearly suffering. Hopefully it will find its legs but I don't know if I have the patience to wait. The long series of will he or she that goes on and on and on is getting really really boring.
Big Shots - I like the cast. The funny comes and goes but don't know if will stick with. I will give it a few more eps to make sure.
My Name Is Earl - Continues to be funny. The delicious Jamie Pressley continues to chew scenery.
The Office - I am entertained by the show but I notice I don't actually laugh that much. Its one of those that if I missed it, I wouldn't particularly care.
ER - Its ER. The formula hasn't changed a bit with just enough interesting characters to overcome the crappy ones. With the help of the trusty remote can usually speed through an hour ep in about half hour by skipping the uninteresting story arcs of the ep.
Smallville - Drool, the lovely and gorgeous Allison Mack. Her character continues to be the emotional center of the show and she continues to show why with acting skills that far far outpaces the others. I was entertained by the ending teaser with Supergirl flying...well they might want to spend a little more on those flying effects.
CSI - The original remains the best. Sara remains alive (darn) but the episode was intense and well paced. Remains on the must see list.
Without a Trace - More episodes I watch the less interested I keep becoming. Even the introduction of James Marsters may not be enough to keep me watching through the season.
Ugly Betty - More of the same of first season and thats not a good thing. Lot of storyline recyling and I am simply getting bored with it.
Grey's Anatomy - Me thinks the launching of Private Practice is running the writing staff and others ragged as its clearly suffering. Hopefully it will find its legs but I don't know if I have the patience to wait. The long series of will he or she that goes on and on and on is getting really really boring.
Big Shots - I like the cast. The funny comes and goes but don't know if will stick with. I will give it a few more eps to make sure.
New Season 9/26
Oops thought I had done this already and discovered I hadn't. So on to pocket reviews of Wednesday programs.
Private Practice - DOA unless it improves and quickly. It frankly bored me. The addison character is lovely, but the emsemble as a whole doesn't hold my attention. Considering the calibur of the cast, I am thinking its the writing thats dropping the ball.
Dirty Sexy Money - Hmmm Zoe McCellan. Fan of hers for quite a while. Lovely women. Not enough to get me to keep watching this show. Its has a lot of potential but the whining of the rich and famous just doesn't grab my interest.
Criminial Minds - Fabulous as always and good job of making use of Mandy in the one episode he will be in before his famous walkout. I hope more shows learn from this and remember that the talent can be and should be replaced when their ego gets in the way of getting the job done. Any case, another outstanding if depressing ep and a show that remains on my must see list.
CSI:NY - Still the red-headed stepchild of the CSI franchise. Despite my best efforts I just can't get that into this show. I think I watch more out of habit then real interest. I notice I zone out more and more while watching this show and just don't seem to care.
Back To You - Its got Fraiser playing Frasier as a newscaster. I laughed and was entertained so mission accomplished. Probably already clearing shelf space for Emmy's even though its no where near that good.
Bionic Women - Lots of potential. Katie Sackhoff pretty much steals every scene she is in. Also she somehow became sexy. Not sure when that happened. Very odd. The show could be good, very good but something is holding it back but can't put my finger on it. Lack of imagniation might be part of the problem...or budget. Saddling Jamie with a sister she has to raise wasn't a good move either. They want to humanize the character and rather doing it the hard way - through the story, they decided to go lazy by giving her the abusive father abandons sister she must raise backstory. The problem is the usual problem with giving characters kids in dramas...you have to keep dealing with them. To ignore their existence is to make the person a crappy parent which is not a good characteristic for the hero. Even the pilot ep showed how they had no idea what to do with the kid now that they where saddled with her. Big problem. Jettison the sister as soon as possible and focus on the rest of the adult emsemble. Dang that was long but the sister bit really really dragged the pilot episode down and is very very lazy writing which doesn't bode well for the future of this series.
Life - This is a strange show with a strange character. Sarah Shahi and Brooke Langston where yummy throughout but I can't determine if I like it or not. I am going to give it a few more eps before making up my mind.
Gossip Girl - Didn't watch this week but did last week. Was bored throughout. Once again the whining of the rich and famous just doesn't interest me.
Private Practice - DOA unless it improves and quickly. It frankly bored me. The addison character is lovely, but the emsemble as a whole doesn't hold my attention. Considering the calibur of the cast, I am thinking its the writing thats dropping the ball.
Dirty Sexy Money - Hmmm Zoe McCellan. Fan of hers for quite a while. Lovely women. Not enough to get me to keep watching this show. Its has a lot of potential but the whining of the rich and famous just doesn't grab my interest.
Criminial Minds - Fabulous as always and good job of making use of Mandy in the one episode he will be in before his famous walkout. I hope more shows learn from this and remember that the talent can be and should be replaced when their ego gets in the way of getting the job done. Any case, another outstanding if depressing ep and a show that remains on my must see list.
CSI:NY - Still the red-headed stepchild of the CSI franchise. Despite my best efforts I just can't get that into this show. I think I watch more out of habit then real interest. I notice I zone out more and more while watching this show and just don't seem to care.
Back To You - Its got Fraiser playing Frasier as a newscaster. I laughed and was entertained so mission accomplished. Probably already clearing shelf space for Emmy's even though its no where near that good.
Bionic Women - Lots of potential. Katie Sackhoff pretty much steals every scene she is in. Also she somehow became sexy. Not sure when that happened. Very odd. The show could be good, very good but something is holding it back but can't put my finger on it. Lack of imagniation might be part of the problem...or budget. Saddling Jamie with a sister she has to raise wasn't a good move either. They want to humanize the character and rather doing it the hard way - through the story, they decided to go lazy by giving her the abusive father abandons sister she must raise backstory. The problem is the usual problem with giving characters kids in dramas...you have to keep dealing with them. To ignore their existence is to make the person a crappy parent which is not a good characteristic for the hero. Even the pilot ep showed how they had no idea what to do with the kid now that they where saddled with her. Big problem. Jettison the sister as soon as possible and focus on the rest of the adult emsemble. Dang that was long but the sister bit really really dragged the pilot episode down and is very very lazy writing which doesn't bode well for the future of this series.
Life - This is a strange show with a strange character. Sarah Shahi and Brooke Langston where yummy throughout but I can't determine if I like it or not. I am going to give it a few more eps before making up my mind.
Gossip Girl - Didn't watch this week but did last week. Was bored throughout. Once again the whining of the rich and famous just doesn't interest me.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
New Season 9-25
More TV, more comments to share on the stuff I decided to watch.
House - Hey its House. Same as the last seasons. He is still a dick. He still gets it "right" yet somehow wrong. In the real world he would have been tossed out long ago and broke from lawsuits. But in TV land he continues to amuse and I personally am looking forward to his interviews "survivor" style that will be running theme of the next few eps.
Law and Order: SVU - Same as last season. Continues to entertain while being a bit disturbing. One of the best dramas on TV.
Boston Legal - Hmm I like and don't like the show. The casting director continues to have an eye for beauty. The writing (and acting) continues to be over the top. Shatner continues to chew the scenery while really having very little to do. Basically at this point its 50% boring, 50% entertaining, but the entertaining part is usually so well done its worth the boring.
Beauty and the Geek - I am a geek so it speaks to me. Sadly the "Aspiring" Playmate Amanda was kicked, probably resulting in an excellent rebound that would make a basketball proud if she landed chest first when kicked out. The sentiment and humanity of the show's first season remains on vacation and unlikely to return.
Reaper - The pilot ep was directed by Kevin Smith. How do you know this? Because the credits tell you. Otherwise its presentation was no different then any other show. As for the show itself, its like Supernatural with a better sense of humor. Overall entertaining and worth checking it.
House - Hey its House. Same as the last seasons. He is still a dick. He still gets it "right" yet somehow wrong. In the real world he would have been tossed out long ago and broke from lawsuits. But in TV land he continues to amuse and I personally am looking forward to his interviews "survivor" style that will be running theme of the next few eps.
Law and Order: SVU - Same as last season. Continues to entertain while being a bit disturbing. One of the best dramas on TV.
Boston Legal - Hmm I like and don't like the show. The casting director continues to have an eye for beauty. The writing (and acting) continues to be over the top. Shatner continues to chew the scenery while really having very little to do. Basically at this point its 50% boring, 50% entertaining, but the entertaining part is usually so well done its worth the boring.
Beauty and the Geek - I am a geek so it speaks to me. Sadly the "Aspiring" Playmate Amanda was kicked, probably resulting in an excellent rebound that would make a basketball proud if she landed chest first when kicked out. The sentiment and humanity of the show's first season remains on vacation and unlikely to return.
Reaper - The pilot ep was directed by Kevin Smith. How do you know this? Because the credits tell you. Otherwise its presentation was no different then any other show. As for the show itself, its like Supernatural with a better sense of humor. Overall entertaining and worth checking it.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
New Season 9-24
The new season has started across the board for the big 4. Yesterday Fox started things with their cartoon lineup. Simpsons missed a step on the ep and wasted Colbert. King of the Hill was good if slightly over the top. Family Guy was completely over the top and hilarious as always.
So now to Monday. Lots of new stuff and lots of returning favorites. Being lazy, not going to do paragraphs of reviews, more just blurbs of what I thought of the stuff I watched or recorded.
How I Met Your Mother - Hilarious as always. I miss Alyson Hannigan's red hair. She is still hot, but considering how rare natural redheads are, just don't get this tendency to die it away.
CSI: Miami - New season, same stories. Its entertaining enough but it appears the Horatio with son storyline is going to be as tedious as all his family related storylines from seasons past.
Prison Break - Second ep. Still not sure if my attention is grabbed. Everything is a little to easy this season. "Whistler" has been hiding for years in a hole and suddenly everyone knows where he is. The water pipes have been broken for a year and boom, our hero knows exactly where and what to do to fix the problem. I don't know, its tiresome. Hopefully the prison break will not take all season long. Don't think can wait that long.
Chuck - The pilot ep was very entertaining. Overall its a show I will continue to watch and it doesn't hurt to have the beautiful eye candy in the form of Sarah Lancaster (currently wasted) and Yvonne Strzechowski. Worth checking out if you haven't already.
Heroes - Woot season 2 begins. New mysteries to discover including the murder of George Takai (darnit). If you liked the first season, there is not reason not to watch the second.
Journeyman - Good first ep. The time traveling motif can be very entertaining if handled well. So far so good. The only problem is while the dude is in the past, time still moves forward in the present. The result is having to explain sudden and sometimes long disappearances to his family and friends. This is fine as a short term character device, but 22 eps of explaining those disappearances is going to get very old very quick. Hopefully a permanent solution will present itself by mid-season.
So now to Monday. Lots of new stuff and lots of returning favorites. Being lazy, not going to do paragraphs of reviews, more just blurbs of what I thought of the stuff I watched or recorded.
How I Met Your Mother - Hilarious as always. I miss Alyson Hannigan's red hair. She is still hot, but considering how rare natural redheads are, just don't get this tendency to die it away.
CSI: Miami - New season, same stories. Its entertaining enough but it appears the Horatio with son storyline is going to be as tedious as all his family related storylines from seasons past.
Prison Break - Second ep. Still not sure if my attention is grabbed. Everything is a little to easy this season. "Whistler" has been hiding for years in a hole and suddenly everyone knows where he is. The water pipes have been broken for a year and boom, our hero knows exactly where and what to do to fix the problem. I don't know, its tiresome. Hopefully the prison break will not take all season long. Don't think can wait that long.
Chuck - The pilot ep was very entertaining. Overall its a show I will continue to watch and it doesn't hurt to have the beautiful eye candy in the form of Sarah Lancaster (currently wasted) and Yvonne Strzechowski. Worth checking out if you haven't already.
Heroes - Woot season 2 begins. New mysteries to discover including the murder of George Takai (darnit). If you liked the first season, there is not reason not to watch the second.
Journeyman - Good first ep. The time traveling motif can be very entertaining if handled well. So far so good. The only problem is while the dude is in the past, time still moves forward in the present. The result is having to explain sudden and sometimes long disappearances to his family and friends. This is fine as a short term character device, but 22 eps of explaining those disappearances is going to get very old very quick. Hopefully a permanent solution will present itself by mid-season.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Google Sued For Secret SSN Code
In a sign of the stupidity of many in our times, Dylan Jayne is suing Google for 5 billion because of their name. Or as he puts it "I, Dylan Stephan Jayne, plaintiff, has a social security number that when the social security number is turned upside down in its entirety it is a scrambled code that does spell the name Google." Oh yeah, and all five pages of the lawsuit is handwritten in the format that most lawsuits of this nature follow.Ironically, considering how much traction even obvious frivolous lawsuits get in the US, Jacob has a 50/50 chance of actually winning this.
Friday, September 21, 2007
Special Comment: Bush's Hypocrisy
Keith Olbermann had another special comment yesterday on Countdown (transcript here). This time he tears into for his comments regarding the "Betray Us" ad from moveon.org. Olbermann does an excellent job of point out Bush's hypocrasy using recent history with Swift boating Kerry, Max Cleland "cowardice", the overall fear focused campaigning and how apparently for Bush's goals, there is not such thing as a low blow. Olbermann also uses American history to highlight that until Bush, Presidents tried to keep a clear line between the military and civilian branches. Basically the rules is leave the politics to the politicians and the generals to protecting the country. Instead, thanks to Bush, a general has been used to promote a political agenda. The "pimping" of General Petraeus. Bush is the worst president in the history of this country and he continues to prove why this is the case.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Kathy "the Anti-Christ" Griffin Larry King Interview
Kathy Griffin is enjoying a little bit of the controvery spotlight do to her comments of not thanking Jesus for her Emmy win, saying "he had nothing to do with it." Christian groups, mostly wanting more donations, pounced all over it. Apparently, it IS actually a rule you are supposed to thank Jesus for helping you win stuff. As Kathy points out, you would think Jesus would have better things to do then help celebrities and athletes win awards. According the the Christian groups, I guess that is not the case.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Countdown 9/11 To Iraq Summary of Failure
Keith Olbermann on Countdown yesterday put together a solid list of the lies and failures of the bush administration in using 9/11 to bring about the Iraqi War. Its just highlights what a complete and utter failure the Bush administration has been from day 1 where failure gets you promoted and awards.
A video can be found here.
A video can be found here.
Jon Stewart Hosting 2008 Oscars
According to the New York Times, Jon Stewart has been tapped to once again host the 2008 Oscars. He previousily hosted in 2006.
Great news as I thought his hosting performance last time was great and hoping he brings more Daily Show humor to it this time. He had a touch last time but I say more the merrier. The Oscars are too darn stuffy as it is.
(source)
Great news as I thought his hosting performance last time was great and hoping he brings more Daily Show humor to it this time. He had a touch last time but I say more the merrier. The Oscars are too darn stuffy as it is.
(source)
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
9/11 - Six Years Later
Its now been six years to the day. A lot of things have happened. Some good, but sadly most bad. The years in between have not been good for this country as the leadership has failed in every way possible. As always time moves on. Below is the post 9/11 commentary from Jon Stewart that really summarizes everything. Its continues to be a solid message of hope and one worth repeating.
Insurance Tactics to Cheat Victims
Bloomberg.com has posted an article that covers the tactics the various insurance carriers use to avoid making payments or full payments. The worse offenders seem to be State Farm and especially Allstate who hired consultants to develop new methods to avoid payments that have become industries standard practices. Suffice it to say, read the article so know how they are trying to screw you and consider switching insurance carriers if your with State Farm and Allstate.
Click here to read the full article.
Click here to read the full article.
Wednesday, September 05, 2007
New iPod Lineup from Apple
Today Steve Jobs hosted a keynote that introduced an entire updated line of iPods and modified iTunes store. The highlights include a new colors for the iPod Shuffle, a new designed nano with screen, the iPod Video (now Classic), and the iPod Touch. In addition iTunes has got an update with allowing the creating of ring tones (for 99 cents) and wi-fi music store. The details are below.
iPod Shuffle
- same design, same price ($79), additional new colors of dark red, purple, light blue, light green and red (for AIDS charity program for various electronic products).
- In stores this weekend
iPod Nano
- 2 models 4GB ($149) and 8GB ($199)
- basically a tiny iPod Video
- now has video capability and new user interface with Cover Flow and 3 games built in
- 2 inch QVGA 320x240 screen that is 65% brighter then previous models with 204 pizels per inch
- comes in dark red, purple, light blue and light green colors
- battery life: 24 hours audio or 5 hours video
- Available in stores this weekend
- Hands-on and pics: here and here and here
iPod Classic
- now 80GB ($249) and 160GB ($349) in size
- new GUI interface, but overall same as iPod Video its replacing
- all polished steel body except for clickwheel
- Cover Flow built in (but not as smooth as on iPhone)
- battery life: 40 hours audio or 7 hours video
- In stores by the weekend
- Hands-on and pics: here and here and here
iPod Touch
- basically the iPhone without phone capabilities
- touchscreen Cover Flow, Wi-Fi, Safari web browswer, iTunes Wi-Fi Music Store and YouTube but no email application
- Flash drives so 8GB model ($299) and 16GB model ($399)
- 3.5 inch widescreen display with light sensor to autodim the screen
- 8mm thin
- battery life: 22 hours audio or 5 hours video, no info on wi-fi does to battery though
- Ships worldwide by end of the month
- Walkthrough video here
- Hands-on and pics: video, and here and here and here
iTunes
- Now ability to create customized ring tones from 12 to 21 seconds in length using a graphic editor
- Ring tones made from existing library but costs an additional 99 cents.
- Ring tones for iPhone only.
- iTunes Wi-Fi Music Store available to download purchased songs directly from a wi-fi connection and later sync to new purchases back to desktop on iPod Touch and iPhone
- No mention on if/how podcasts and the like would work.
- Deal with Starbucks to sample and later purchase songs playing at Starbucks stores nationwide. Will take a year or so to roll out in the stores though.
- Hands-on and pics: here and here
iPhone
- $200 price drop for 8GB model (now $399), 4GB discontinued (remaining discounted to $299)
- update in less then month will introduce iTunes Wi-Fi store (I assume will come out at same time as iPod Touch)
Overall, if you in the market for an iPod, its a tough choice to make. Want video, just a player, like the bells and whistles of a touch screen? Five models, but lots of choices depending on your needs. Personally, I want the iPod Touch but the price is making me pause and wait it out. Not enough memory to make it worthwhile. Besides I want to see what the hack community does to that puppy.
Olbermann Special comment: No Credibility
Keith Olbermann tears into the Bush for playing with the lives and future of this country for his cavalier attitude about Iraq. Bush has said in a new book approved by him "I am playing for October-November...To get us in a position where the presidential candidates, will be comfortable about sustaining a presence." This statement makes it clear that Bush's goal is to sustain the war for indefinite period of time, no end in sight and no definition of what that end is. Basically Haliburton wants its fiscal year and be damned with the lives it costs. Or as Keith puts it "your holding our troops hostage." Most people call behavior like this evil. Because couched in terms of unproven terrorism fears though, we call it leadership. Pathetic.
Friday, August 31, 2007
Tony Snow Resigns
Tony Snow has announced he will resign as White House Press Secretary as he undergoes treatment for cancer. His final day will be September 14th. Deputy Press Secretary Dana Perino will take over the role.
I have a feeling Tony Snow is probably relieved to be done with the job as he was not particularity very good at it. Dana Perino, a very attractive and intelligent women, has proven to be much better at the role. As a whole, I do believe I will be watching the press stuff more often as I have developed a crush on Perino.
I have a feeling Tony Snow is probably relieved to be done with the job as he was not particularity very good at it. Dana Perino, a very attractive and intelligent women, has proven to be much better at the role. As a whole, I do believe I will be watching the press stuff more often as I have developed a crush on Perino.
Monday, August 27, 2007
Alberto Gonzales Resigns
Alberto Gonzales announced today that he is resigning as Attorney General effective September 17. Bush says his name was dragged in the mud for political reasons and I say that Bush did most of the dragging. Why did he resign now instead of earlier? Who knows and frankly don't care.
There is really only one person to blame and that's Gonzalez. He dragged his own name in the mud. Neither the people nor the politicians had to do it for him. His duty was to the United States of America. To the law. His duty was to uphold the Constitution of the United States. Instead he decided his duty was to uphold the will of the President of the United States. That was not his role, it was never supposed to be his role and the fact that he didn't know that is inexcusable. He is simply incompetent, par the course for an administration that hasn't gotten anything right in 6 years and counting. Good riddance to bad rubbish. May he exit the public stage forever.
There is really only one person to blame and that's Gonzalez. He dragged his own name in the mud. Neither the people nor the politicians had to do it for him. His duty was to the United States of America. To the law. His duty was to uphold the Constitution of the United States. Instead he decided his duty was to uphold the will of the President of the United States. That was not his role, it was never supposed to be his role and the fact that he didn't know that is inexcusable. He is simply incompetent, par the course for an administration that hasn't gotten anything right in 6 years and counting. Good riddance to bad rubbish. May he exit the public stage forever.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Daily Show: "America to the Rescue"
The Daily Show put together a fantastic bit that provides an excellent overview of Republican Presidents continued and total failed Middle East policies that repeatedly bite Americans in the ass later. All complete with decade specific graphics. Its a searing and brilliant segment.
Click here to watch the video.
Click here to watch the video.
Monday, August 20, 2007
Daily Show in Iraq
The Daily Show with Jon Stewart had decided to send one of their correspondents to Iraq for real rather then the usual blue-screen work. Starting this week, the show will air pre-recorded bits with Rob Riggle in Iraq. How much is serious and how much is humor is unknown but sure it will be biting commentary on the "surge" and the upcoming state of Iraq from General...oh yeah, its really the White House writing it and he just signs it and does the yes-man thing.
Full article here
Full article here
Monday, August 06, 2007
TechTV Reborn Online
If you a fan of TechTV before it was run into the ground by the buyout from G4, be glad to now its basically reborn online via the use of pod casting, webcasting, and IP TV.
If you loved the Screensavers with Patrick Norton, Sarah Lane (or Moran), Kevin Rose, Martin Sargent and may others, then be sure to check out the many offering from Revision3. I personally recommend Diggnation, InDigital, and Systm.
If you a fan of Leo Laporte, go to TWIT.tv. The TWIT stands for this week in tech and its a network of podcasts, many many podcasts that covers pretty much any tech related topic under the sun you can think of. Many TechTV folks, such as John C. Dvorak (who also does Cranky Geeks) and others. On that network I recommed the podcasts "This Week In Tech" and net@nite. Leo's cohost on net@nite is the talented and lovely Amber "i have a crush on her" MacArthur and she also creates and hosts commandN, another recommendation.
Finally TechTV and now G4 X-Play host and babe extraordinaire (lovely but no Amber) Morgan Webb has started her own tech related webcast called Webb Alert. Its a five minute or so webcast that covers daily tech events. Its just started last week and out of the gate its comes across as a slick professional program that should lead to many things for her.
Ff you loved TechTV, you will love all that programming and many more. I just wish I had worked for TechTV now so could join in something that appears like is a lot of fun to do. I don't have the looks but do have ideas to expand what some of them are doing including Webb Alert. Ah to have connections and now people.
And nope this isn't an advertisement. Don't have enough readers for that (darn it). Just a strong recommendation for some great content.
If you loved the Screensavers with Patrick Norton, Sarah Lane (or Moran), Kevin Rose, Martin Sargent and may others, then be sure to check out the many offering from Revision3. I personally recommend Diggnation, InDigital, and Systm.
If you a fan of Leo Laporte, go to TWIT.tv. The TWIT stands for this week in tech and its a network of podcasts, many many podcasts that covers pretty much any tech related topic under the sun you can think of. Many TechTV folks, such as John C. Dvorak (who also does Cranky Geeks) and others. On that network I recommed the podcasts "This Week In Tech" and net@nite. Leo's cohost on net@nite is the talented and lovely Amber "i have a crush on her" MacArthur and she also creates and hosts commandN, another recommendation.
Finally TechTV and now G4 X-Play host and babe extraordinaire (lovely but no Amber) Morgan Webb has started her own tech related webcast called Webb Alert. Its a five minute or so webcast that covers daily tech events. Its just started last week and out of the gate its comes across as a slick professional program that should lead to many things for her.
Ff you loved TechTV, you will love all that programming and many more. I just wish I had worked for TechTV now so could join in something that appears like is a lot of fun to do. I don't have the looks but do have ideas to expand what some of them are doing including Webb Alert. Ah to have connections and now people.
And nope this isn't an advertisement. Don't have enough readers for that (darn it). Just a strong recommendation for some great content.
Friday, August 03, 2007
Full Sized Lego Desk
Eric Harshbarger was paid to build a Lego desk, and a mighty desk was indeed built. I wouldn't mind knowing the cost. I just wished he had more pictures to show all the phases of the project.
Lego Desk Facts from Eric Harshbarger:
- Approximately 35,000 LEGO bricks were used. This includes almost all the pieces from 32 Blue Tubs (#3033), almost 300 (!) small baseplates (8x16 studs), and 63 blue plate packs from LEGO Shop-at-Home. A few other pieces were also bought from private collectors (226 tiles so the drawers could slide, et cetera).
- The desk weighs about 120 pounds, I think. I have not actually weighed it... but I think that is close.
- About 7 pounds of glue were used. Brand: Oatey, All-Purpose (PVC, CPVC, ABS) Glue.
- The desk has the following dimensions (inches, WxHxD): 60" x 29.5" x 30".
- It has 7 working drawers (six small, one large).
- It has a folding lid in the top that conceals a hole for computer cables to drop through.
- Yes, the top is bumpy -- studs up. I offered to make the top smooth, but the client specifically requested otherwise. Whatever. I also offered to build a retractable keyboard tray in the front, but that was not wanted. Nor a mosaic of the company logo on the top or sides.
- Yes, I was paid to build the desk. Don't ask how much. It was worth my time.
(source)
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Winnie Cooper's New Book
Danica McKeller, Winnie Cooper on the Wonder Years and mathematician extraordinaire has a new book called "Math Doesn't Suck" coming out soon. As the picture shows, the 32 year old (older then me, always though was same age) McKeller continues to be the knockout that I had a crush on when was young. Difference is she isn't he typical Hollywood airhead but apparently a genius that could run circles around most of us. Doesn't get much sexier then that. According to CNN.com, the book "includes tips to avoid mistakes on homework, ways to overcome test-day anxiety and profiles of three beautiful mathematicians." I do believe my childhood crush has been renewed.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
XBox 360 Getting $50 Price Drop?
Various sites are reporting that the XBox 360 may get a $50 price drop to compete with the $100 drop the PS3 got. Thanks to that drop, the PS3 enjoyed around a 138% increase in sales, usually at the sacrifice of XBox sales. The rumor indicates the drop will occur around August 8. I wonder if that is the reason behind the $50 Toys R Us gift certificate with XBox purchase that is going on at those stores?
Friday, July 20, 2007
Special Comment: Bush's Scapegoating
Bush continues his streak of being "The Decider", but all leadership mistakes are the mistakes of everyone else. A leader responsible for nothing unless it goes well seems to be a constant with this administration. This special comment is about Bush's use of blaming anyone and everyone for the failure of the Iraqi war. He says the war is failing, but Bush needs a scapegoat. The only reason to need such a thing is because even he knows he failed utterly at his job of President. He has failed in every way a leader can fail, in every way a commander in chief can fail, in every way a President can fail. Simply put, Bush is a complete and utter failure. But Haliburton has its money, and really that's all that matters.
Click here to see video of Keith Olbermann's Special Comment on Bush's scapegoating.
Click here to see video of Keith Olbermann's Special Comment on Bush's scapegoating.
2007 Emmy Nominations
Today the Emmy Nominatiosn where announced. Its was mostly full of the tried and true with very few suprises. If the show was getting alot of press, then chances are it got a nomination. Sadly, top quality shows, but low on the media radar got left out such as Veronica Wars. What few suprises include the nom in writing for Battlestar Galactica, usually everything on the Sci Fi Channel is ignored.
The main problem is the nomiations are decided by people that usually don't know what they are voting on. The opinions are mostly based not on their enjoyment of the programs (as they don't watch them) but rather what they heard critics, friends, etc say about a program. Also, nominations and voting is based on only 2 episodes of a submitted program. This is why you hear about "emmy episodes" such as the several ER does every year. Really, a show doesn't have to do an entire season of outstanding episodes, just 2 that are good enough. This is why 24 got noms, even though the season was horrible. Jean Smart should have been nominated last year, not this year, for instance. Its also why some actors get overlooked. The selected show might not be so good for some actors but better for others.
All this without Hollywood politics entering the mix which further complicates things. All this is why most (include me, see below) will do a "should win" and "will win". The should is based on belief of quality deserving the win. The "will win" is based on all the crap that goes with a vote, from it being a safe choice, press, popularity, maybe quality, and politics.
Main categories:
OUTSTANDING DRAMA - Wow this category is toast. Where is Rescue Me? Where is Special Victims Unit? Boston Legal? Its more comedy then drama. Not a great selection at all.
Boston Legal
Grey's Anatomy
Heroes - Should win. The most creative show on television.
House
The Sopranos - Will in. Lots of press for a show with only about 8 millions viewers and emmy favorite.
OUTSTANDING COMEDY - Where is Scrubs? Where is My Name is Earl? 2 and a Half Men? Monk? What the hell? Once again safe known choices. Frankly don't care who wins in this category.
Entourage
The Office - Will win. Press, politics, movie star in it, blah blah blah
30 Rock
Two and a Half Men
Ugly Betty
WRITING - DRAMA - Battlestar got a nom!!! As I live and breath. All those noms for Sopranos. I have watched it. Its over-rated.
Battlestar Galactica • Occupation/Precipice - Should win. Really was a great ep, but the Emmy's don't like Sci Fi.
Lost • Through The Looking Glass
The Sopranos • Kennedy And Heidi
The Sopranos • The Second Coming
The Sopranos • Made In America - Will win. Its really a toss up on which of the Soprano eps will win so guessing this one since the finale ep.
WRITING - COMEDY - Hmm, actually seen all these eps. Extras was funny but not that funny. Probably hoping Daniel Radcliffe will show up to help the ratings. I have no preference on who should win.
30 Rock • Jack-Tor
30 Rock • Tracy Does Conan
Extras • Daniel Radcliffe
The Office • Gay Witch Hunt - Will win. Just cause about gay stuff and was funny.
The Office • The Negotiation
WRITING - VARIETY, MUSIC OR COMEDY - Ooh this category is tough. All excellent programs, all funny, all well done. Really its the Colbert Report vs the Daily Show as far as I can tell. Both are equally outstanding and its a shame that both can't win.
Late Night With Conan O'Brien
Late Show With David Letterman
Real Time With Bill Maher
The Colbert Report- Should win. Because of the snark and the like, actually a much more difficult program to right, also much more biting. Because comes across as almost off the cuff I don't most voters will recognize the difficulty in doing this program.
The Daily Show With John Stewart - Will win. Has lots of TV and media folk on to help in the voting.
ACTOR - DRAMA - Again, lots of safe choices, with others left out. Any cast member from Lost, Heroes, Law and Order, and so forth would be better then Kiefer Sutherland and James Spader, who both are just in neutral in their roles.
James Gandolfini - Will win. A send off for this years of Sopranoes service.
Hugh Laurie
Denis Leary - Should win. Really is one of the best performances on television.
James Spader
Kiefer Sutherland
ACTRESS - DRAMA - Sigh. Again with the safe choices. Again, pic a women from Lost, Heroes, Battlestar Galatica, etc. Patricia Arquette? The women can't act. Changing your pitch and looking constipated isn't acting. Sally Field is just playing the same roles she has been for the last 20 years. Krya Sedgwick is good on the Closer, but not this good. The role simply hasn't given her much range to work with. This category is an excellent example of how safe choices and lots of press can fill out the roster. Don't care who wins, so no should win choice.
Patricia Arquette
Minnie Driver
Edie Falco - - Will win. More goodbye Soprano love.
Sally Field
Mariska Hargitay
Kyra Sedgwick
SUPPORTING ACTOR - DRAMA - Some Lost love here. Michael Emerson was good, but he was better a few seasons ago. Same for Terry O'Quinn who should have won about 2 years ago. Knights angst is just dull and not really that spectaular. Masi Oka, I want him to win but honesly not sure if he deserves it, at least not yet. William Shatner is the man, but he is playing it in neutral. Nothing outstanding comes to mind.
Michael Emerson
Michael Imperioli
T.R. Knight - Will win. All the press about being gay will help, not hurt him.
Masi Oka
Terry O'Quinn - Should win.
William Shatner
SUPPORTING ACTRESS - DRAMA - Again, another Sopranos nom. Eye-roll. More nods for Grey's, none deserved. Rachel Griffiths is here cause familiar name due to Six Feet Under, but not deserved for Brothers and Sisters. Once again, press and safe known choices has resulted in better choices being left out.
Lorraine Bracco
Rachel Griffiths
Katherine Heigl
Sandra Oh
Aida Turturro
Chandra Wilson - Should win. Will win. Enough Soprano love by this point. The women is the best actor on the show.
ACTOR - COMEDY - Charlie Sheen? Really? Where is Zack Braff, Jason Lee, and so forth? Lots of better choices left out. Monk is great entertainment but enough with the win. Alec Baldwin did nail it out of the park.
Alec Baldwin - Should win. Will win.
Steve Carell
Ricky Gervais
Tony Shalhoub
Charlie Sheen
ACTRESS - COMEDY - I just don't find Desperate Housewives or Weeds all that funny. Cute and silly perhaps, but not funny. Again, safe, known choices. None particularily outstanding. Ugly Betty is a bit two note - hurt or happy and not that funny.
America Ferrera - Will win. Just a guess.
Tina Fey
Felicity Huffman
Julia Louis-Dreyfus
Mary Louis Parker
SUPPORTING ACTOR - COMEDY - Not liking half the noms. Repeat of many comments said before. However, Rainn Wilson and Neil Patrick Harris do deserve the noms and wins. But only one can.
Jon Cryer
Kevin Dillon
Neil Patrick Harris - Should win. Nails it everytime and makes it effortless.
Jeremy Piven
Rainn Wilson - Will win. Lot more press for the Office.
SUPPORTING ACTRESS - COMEDY - Slightly better filled out category. Jaime Pressly outstanding as is Jenna Fischer.
Conchata Ferrell
Jenna Fischer
Elizabeth Perkins
Jaime Pressly - Should win. Will win. A little Earl love.
Holland Taylor
Vanessa Williams
The main problem is the nomiations are decided by people that usually don't know what they are voting on. The opinions are mostly based not on their enjoyment of the programs (as they don't watch them) but rather what they heard critics, friends, etc say about a program. Also, nominations and voting is based on only 2 episodes of a submitted program. This is why you hear about "emmy episodes" such as the several ER does every year. Really, a show doesn't have to do an entire season of outstanding episodes, just 2 that are good enough. This is why 24 got noms, even though the season was horrible. Jean Smart should have been nominated last year, not this year, for instance. Its also why some actors get overlooked. The selected show might not be so good for some actors but better for others.
All this without Hollywood politics entering the mix which further complicates things. All this is why most (include me, see below) will do a "should win" and "will win". The should is based on belief of quality deserving the win. The "will win" is based on all the crap that goes with a vote, from it being a safe choice, press, popularity, maybe quality, and politics.
Main categories:
OUTSTANDING DRAMA - Wow this category is toast. Where is Rescue Me? Where is Special Victims Unit? Boston Legal? Its more comedy then drama. Not a great selection at all.
Boston Legal
Grey's Anatomy
Heroes - Should win. The most creative show on television.
House
The Sopranos - Will in. Lots of press for a show with only about 8 millions viewers and emmy favorite.
OUTSTANDING COMEDY - Where is Scrubs? Where is My Name is Earl? 2 and a Half Men? Monk? What the hell? Once again safe known choices. Frankly don't care who wins in this category.
Entourage
The Office - Will win. Press, politics, movie star in it, blah blah blah
30 Rock
Two and a Half Men
Ugly Betty
WRITING - DRAMA - Battlestar got a nom!!! As I live and breath. All those noms for Sopranos. I have watched it. Its over-rated.
Battlestar Galactica • Occupation/Precipice - Should win. Really was a great ep, but the Emmy's don't like Sci Fi.
Lost • Through The Looking Glass
The Sopranos • Kennedy And Heidi
The Sopranos • The Second Coming
The Sopranos • Made In America - Will win. Its really a toss up on which of the Soprano eps will win so guessing this one since the finale ep.
WRITING - COMEDY - Hmm, actually seen all these eps. Extras was funny but not that funny. Probably hoping Daniel Radcliffe will show up to help the ratings. I have no preference on who should win.
30 Rock • Jack-Tor
30 Rock • Tracy Does Conan
Extras • Daniel Radcliffe
The Office • Gay Witch Hunt - Will win. Just cause about gay stuff and was funny.
The Office • The Negotiation
WRITING - VARIETY, MUSIC OR COMEDY - Ooh this category is tough. All excellent programs, all funny, all well done. Really its the Colbert Report vs the Daily Show as far as I can tell. Both are equally outstanding and its a shame that both can't win.
Late Night With Conan O'Brien
Late Show With David Letterman
Real Time With Bill Maher
The Colbert Report- Should win. Because of the snark and the like, actually a much more difficult program to right, also much more biting. Because comes across as almost off the cuff I don't most voters will recognize the difficulty in doing this program.
The Daily Show With John Stewart - Will win. Has lots of TV and media folk on to help in the voting.
ACTOR - DRAMA - Again, lots of safe choices, with others left out. Any cast member from Lost, Heroes, Law and Order, and so forth would be better then Kiefer Sutherland and James Spader, who both are just in neutral in their roles.
James Gandolfini - Will win. A send off for this years of Sopranoes service.
Hugh Laurie
Denis Leary - Should win. Really is one of the best performances on television.
James Spader
Kiefer Sutherland
ACTRESS - DRAMA - Sigh. Again with the safe choices. Again, pic a women from Lost, Heroes, Battlestar Galatica, etc. Patricia Arquette? The women can't act. Changing your pitch and looking constipated isn't acting. Sally Field is just playing the same roles she has been for the last 20 years. Krya Sedgwick is good on the Closer, but not this good. The role simply hasn't given her much range to work with. This category is an excellent example of how safe choices and lots of press can fill out the roster. Don't care who wins, so no should win choice.
Patricia Arquette
Minnie Driver
Edie Falco - - Will win. More goodbye Soprano love.
Sally Field
Mariska Hargitay
Kyra Sedgwick
SUPPORTING ACTOR - DRAMA - Some Lost love here. Michael Emerson was good, but he was better a few seasons ago. Same for Terry O'Quinn who should have won about 2 years ago. Knights angst is just dull and not really that spectaular. Masi Oka, I want him to win but honesly not sure if he deserves it, at least not yet. William Shatner is the man, but he is playing it in neutral. Nothing outstanding comes to mind.
Michael Emerson
Michael Imperioli
T.R. Knight - Will win. All the press about being gay will help, not hurt him.
Masi Oka
Terry O'Quinn - Should win.
William Shatner
SUPPORTING ACTRESS - DRAMA - Again, another Sopranos nom. Eye-roll. More nods for Grey's, none deserved. Rachel Griffiths is here cause familiar name due to Six Feet Under, but not deserved for Brothers and Sisters. Once again, press and safe known choices has resulted in better choices being left out.
Lorraine Bracco
Rachel Griffiths
Katherine Heigl
Sandra Oh
Aida Turturro
Chandra Wilson - Should win. Will win. Enough Soprano love by this point. The women is the best actor on the show.
ACTOR - COMEDY - Charlie Sheen? Really? Where is Zack Braff, Jason Lee, and so forth? Lots of better choices left out. Monk is great entertainment but enough with the win. Alec Baldwin did nail it out of the park.
Alec Baldwin - Should win. Will win.
Steve Carell
Ricky Gervais
Tony Shalhoub
Charlie Sheen
ACTRESS - COMEDY - I just don't find Desperate Housewives or Weeds all that funny. Cute and silly perhaps, but not funny. Again, safe, known choices. None particularily outstanding. Ugly Betty is a bit two note - hurt or happy and not that funny.
America Ferrera - Will win. Just a guess.
Tina Fey
Felicity Huffman
Julia Louis-Dreyfus
Mary Louis Parker
SUPPORTING ACTOR - COMEDY - Not liking half the noms. Repeat of many comments said before. However, Rainn Wilson and Neil Patrick Harris do deserve the noms and wins. But only one can.
Jon Cryer
Kevin Dillon
Neil Patrick Harris - Should win. Nails it everytime and makes it effortless.
Jeremy Piven
Rainn Wilson - Will win. Lot more press for the Office.
SUPPORTING ACTRESS - COMEDY - Slightly better filled out category. Jaime Pressly outstanding as is Jenna Fischer.
Conchata Ferrell
Jenna Fischer
Elizabeth Perkins
Jaime Pressly - Should win. Will win. A little Earl love.
Holland Taylor
Vanessa Williams
Monday, July 16, 2007
To Dems: Time to Grow A Pair
Congress back in session and its now time for the Democrats to actually do something. Because of how close in numbers the two houses are it may be impossible to actually pass bills but its high time they tried and its high time they make every attempt as public as possible. Force filibusters, force public discussions, force every vote. Make is so that those Republicans that vote against the public will have to spend their election explaining their votes. Pass clean bills that have one goal and one goal only.
Grow a pair and stop playing nice. Nice has got us in a pointless war. Nice has allowed the republicans to beat you at everything for the last 10 plus years. Nice accomplishes nothing. Set up the dominoes so you can get the majority in '08. Prove to the American public that you are not spineless but you can fight for what you believe in. The cowering has to end, the indecisiveness has to end. Its time to lead.
Grow a pair and stop playing nice. Nice has got us in a pointless war. Nice has allowed the republicans to beat you at everything for the last 10 plus years. Nice accomplishes nothing. Set up the dominoes so you can get the majority in '08. Prove to the American public that you are not spineless but you can fight for what you believe in. The cowering has to end, the indecisiveness has to end. Its time to lead.
Senator Ted Stevens Under Investigation
That Whore Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) is under investigation for corruption. Ted is the man behind the "bridge to nowhere" that costs $500 billion to build for an Alaka island of maybe a few dozen inhabitants and refused to kill the project to help with Iraqi War effort he supports. Basically its a gift to companies that have supported him. He is also the man behind the famed "the internets are made up of tubes" basically embarrassing himself by confusing the world wide web with plumbing. That is just off the top of my head. Pretty much if you are a major corporation with an agenda, Ted Stevens is the goto man to sell it. No amount of scummery is too much for that Whore Ted Stevens. I doubt anything will come of it but I sure hope it costs him a re-election in '08. He might be good for businesses in Alaska but he sure as shit isn't good for America.
Friday, July 13, 2007
Keith Olbermann Special Commentary: Robert Chertoff's Gut
Keith Olbermann tossed out another special commntary yesterday, this time about Department of Homeland Security chief Robert Chertoff and the value he places on his gut rather then real information. A kind of thinking that is indictative of how the Bush administration is run. "Facts? That don't support are preconcieved viewpoint? Don't want em." Below that is also his interview with Michael Moore.
Special Commentary
Michael Moore Interview
Special Commentary
Michael Moore Interview
Thursday, July 12, 2007
E3: Super Mario Galaxy
Yesterday Nintendo announced multiple titles of interest. The one I am most looking forward to is Super Mario Galaxy which pretty damn wild based on the trailer below. The game is supposed to come out November 12th, just in time for the Christmas sales.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Michael Moore vs Wolf Blitzer
Michael Moore appeared on CNN recently to promote his new documentary Sicko. CNN started the interview off by having a brief report from Dr. Sanjay Gupta that is supposed to be a "reality check" for the film. However, it seems that the film is less about proving his facts wrong and more about how some facts where not mentioned in the movie. Basically Moore commits the same act that the press does everyday, cherry picking information.
This report was viewed by Moore who went ballistic. He used that "reality check" to tear into CNN's failure to check for facts leading up to the Iraq War. A similar "reality check" was used for Fahrenheit 9/11 which later turned out to be mostly accurate in its predictions even though at the time the press agreed with Bush's "greeted as liberators" plan and did nothing to question it and any of his other decision.
The end result is a very interesting interview that shows the tactics that the press and Moore uses when it comes the sharing (or lack of) information and also an amusing insight on how flustered the media gets now when things go off script.
To get the whole story, watch the videos in order below:
Dr. Gupta Sicko Reality Check
Moore vs Blitzer Part I
Moore vs Blitzer Part II
Update: Turns out Gupta was notified of an error in his report a week before its first airing and his producers chose to ignore it. Its one of the main "facts" of the piece about the $25 vs $251 per capita spending by Cuba. Without that fact, it just becomes a report about information left out rather then a report about inaccuracies. Below is the attempt to spin it, probably not aware the emails would get out.
This report was viewed by Moore who went ballistic. He used that "reality check" to tear into CNN's failure to check for facts leading up to the Iraq War. A similar "reality check" was used for Fahrenheit 9/11 which later turned out to be mostly accurate in its predictions even though at the time the press agreed with Bush's "greeted as liberators" plan and did nothing to question it and any of his other decision.
The end result is a very interesting interview that shows the tactics that the press and Moore uses when it comes the sharing (or lack of) information and also an amusing insight on how flustered the media gets now when things go off script.
To get the whole story, watch the videos in order below:
Moore vs Blitzer Part I
Moore vs Blitzer Part II
Update: Turns out Gupta was notified of an error in his report a week before its first airing and his producers chose to ignore it. Its one of the main "facts" of the piece about the $25 vs $251 per capita spending by Cuba. Without that fact, it just becomes a report about information left out rather then a report about inaccuracies. Below is the attempt to spin it, probably not aware the emails would get out.
Monday, July 09, 2007
AT&T iPhone Bill Sticker Shock
Comsumerist is reporting a little surprise coming in for iPhone adopters in the form of pretty high bills. Part of it is due to the $36 activation fee and tax charges. Also some will experience the shock of a pro-rated account from switching plans mid-month. As a whole though, I am thinking most are going to be anger and annoyed. Mark my words, in a few months, the iPhone will take a hit in sales not because of the hardware but because of the crappiness that is AT&T and their "its us or nobody so you'll like it" attitude.
Friday, July 06, 2007
Human Pizels Pull Off Real-Time Animation
Through the marvel of clothes and cards, the South Koreans pulled off an amazing program that is damn near perfect synchronization. Most impressive. Info from Gizmondo.
Thursday, July 05, 2007
Olbermann Special Comment: Libby Pardon
Olbermann aired another special comment on July 3rd, this time regarding the Bush pardon of Libby. Basically for him its the straw that broke the camel's back. He demands Bush and Cheney's resign for a litany of crimes against America. A list that is quite extensive. As Olbermann pointed out, its pretty clear, Bush thinks he is law and therefore above it. In regards to Bush and Cheney, "...Which is the ventriloquist, and which the dummy, is irrelevant. But that you have twisted the machinery of government into nothing more than a tawdry machine of politics, is the only fact that remains relevant."
King Bush and Emperor Cheney need to go. Sadly I don't see the Republicowards doing it as they have their illusion of security to maintain by using fear and the Indecisocrats are so scared of making a wrong decision or a decision without assured victory, have chosen to make any decisions at all.
For full transcript, click here and expand the description field on the right for the video.
King Bush and Emperor Cheney need to go. Sadly I don't see the Republicowards doing it as they have their illusion of security to maintain by using fear and the Indecisocrats are so scared of making a wrong decision or a decision without assured victory, have chosen to make any decisions at all.
For full transcript, click here and expand the description field on the right for the video.
Monday, July 02, 2007
AT&T Death of iPhone?
Maybe the blog title is a bit premature but I have a feeling before its all said and done, the monolith that is AT&T will play a large part in the post iPhone frenzy. Right now its lots of noise and happiness but thats the early adopters. Its the john q public that the money is made and if recent early reports are true, it might be AT&T that costs those sales due to craptastic customer service. However, customer service takes trained dedicated employees who generally like their job. That tends to cost money and cuts into profit margins and AT&T is a company where every that is simply intolerable..especially when have exclusive deals that don't make it necessary. You want an iPhone, you will eat their shit and you will like it. Just wait till those monthly bills come in, I get the feeling that eBay is going to have lots and lots of people trying to opt out early.
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Stop Motion Millenium Falcon Build
Slick video of the building of the Millenium Falcon from Legos using stop motion. Man this thing must have been a pain to put together. Enjoy!
Supreme Court OKs Price Fixing
From CNN:
The reasoning behind the decision, in the usual Bush admin non-logic: "Minimum price agreements can benefit consumers, Kennedy wrote, by enabling retailers to invest in greater customer service without fear of being undercut by discount rivals. The agreements also could make it easier for new products to compete, he added, because a retailer could recoup the costs of marketing a new good by charging a higher price."
So it helps business by giving them money to increase customer service? Seriously? that is the legal grounds? What the hell does that have to do with anything.
From the Consumerist:
WASHINGTON (Reuters) -- The Supreme Court on Thursday overturned a nearly 100-year-old precedent that some price-setting agreements between manufacturers and retailers are automatically illegal under federal antitrust law.Basically the very very very pro-Bush administration pushed for a law that allows businesses to get together and fix prices, reducing competition. If a competitor wants to compete in price and the supplier doesn't like it, then its just to bad so sad. The door is open for price fixing and underhanded agreements.
By a 5-4 vote, the justices overturned a 1911 Supreme Court ruling that minimum prices set by manufacturers on what dealers can charge customers for their products are unquestionably illegal.
The decision was a victory for U.S. business groups that had argued the agreements are often pro-competitive. The groups had urged the high court to adopt a less exacting standard that examines each agreement on a case-by-case basis.
Antitrust authorities at the Justice Department and the Federal Trade Commission also had urged the top court to overturn the precedent, while 37 states and a leading consumer group had urged that the precedent be preserved.
The ruling stemmed from an appeal to the Supreme Court by a company called Leegin Creative Leather Products Inc., the manufacturer of the Brighton brand of women's accessories.
In 1997, it adopted a policy stating it would do business only with retailers that followed its suggested retail prices and would not sell to retailers that discounted its products.
PSKS Inc., operators of a retail store known as "Kay's Kloset" in Lewisville, Texas, placed the entire line of Brighton products on sale below the suggested price in 2002. Leegin then stopped all shipments of its products to the store.
PSKS sued under the antitrust law, alleging illegal price fixing. A jury awarded PSKS $3.6 million in damages and $375,000 in attorney fees, an award upheld by a federal appeals court.
The Supreme Court's majority opinion, written by Justice Anthony Kennedy, reversed the appeals court's ruling.
Justices John Paul Stevens, David Souter, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Stephen Breyer dissented.
Large retailers impacted by the decision include Wal-Mart (down $0.23 to $48.23, Charts, Fortune 500), Target (down $0.17 to $63.58, Charts, Fortune 500) and Lowe's (down $0.40 to $30.85, Charts, Fortune 500).
The reasoning behind the decision, in the usual Bush admin non-logic: "Minimum price agreements can benefit consumers, Kennedy wrote, by enabling retailers to invest in greater customer service without fear of being undercut by discount rivals. The agreements also could make it easier for new products to compete, he added, because a retailer could recoup the costs of marketing a new good by charging a higher price."
So it helps business by giving them money to increase customer service? Seriously? that is the legal grounds? What the hell does that have to do with anything.
From the Consumerist:
"....s Justice Stevens put it slightly more eloquently in his dissent, "The only safe predictions to make about today's decision are that it will likely raise the price of goods at retail.''I see it going one step further. Semi-exclusive agreements. For example, Wal-Mart could sign a deal with company A. They will sell a product at the companies desired price of $19.99. In return, the company agrees that it will require other competitors, say Target, to sell that same item at $24.99. I think this will be the dawn of a new method to screw consumers. You want to say businesses wouldn't do that, but honestly why wouldn't they? Its win-win for everyone but the consumer.
Under the old system, manufacturers could send pricing signals to retailers by way of a Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP,) though retailers were free to compete by selling products below MSRP. Under the new system, championed by Justices who promised to respect stare decisis at their confirmation hearings, manufacturers can now use resale price maintenance (RPM) agreements to ban retailers from offering
discounts.
Leegin is the 15th ruling this term that harms consumers by shielding businesses and corporations from lawsuits."
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
MSNBC Mika Brzezinski Says No To Paris
MSNBC morning anchor basically was fed up with Paris Hilton being the story of the day for what is really non news being made news by the morons of America. Egged on by Joe Scarbourough, she attempts to avoid reading the copy, then tries to burn the copy and then just tears it up. Link from excellent Buzzmachine.com.
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
iPhone Voice Plans, Reviews
The iPhone is almost out and there are reviews and new information coming out everyday. Of note is the recent voice plans which are about what was expected. Engadget has posted a nice little summary of what the overall cost of the iPhone will be over the course of the two year agreement compared with other smart phones and blackberries. They offer a series of breakdowns that can help the fence sitters decide if the phone is really worth the purchase. Basically it comes down neck and neck in cost. However there are sacrifices. With the iPhone you get the features of the iPod, pretty interface, and better web experience (but no flash support). With the blackberry you can actually use it for business. Of course the thing is most people are not using it for business, but for personal use and on that I guess it depends on need.
As for some of the review, its comes down to being a pretty good phone. Mossburg writes "Our verdict is that, despite some flaws and feature omissions, the iPhone is, on balance, a beautiful and breakthrough handheld computer. Its software, especially, sets a new bar for the smart-phone industry, and its clever finger-touch interface, which dispenses with a stylus and most buttons, works well, though it sometimes adds steps to common functions."
Another point of interest though is "The iPhone is missing some features common on some competitors. There's no instant messaging, only standard text messaging. While its two megapixel camera took excellent pictures in our tests, it can't record video. Its otherwise excellent Web browser can't fully utilize some Web sites, because it doesn't yet support Adobe's Flash technology. Although the phone contains a complete iPod, you can't use your songs as ringtones. There aren't any games, nor is there any way to directly access Apple's iTunes Music Store."
At this point, the cost of the phone over two years (about $2500) combines with its limitations (flash, personal music as ringtones, etc) makes this a huge pass for me.
Superman vs Doomsday Trailer
The upcoming direct to video release of Superman vs Doomsday finally has a trailer. Sadly its not good enough to make a decision on whether its worth a buy or rent.
Superman Doomsday - Official Trailer
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Computer Simulation of 9/11 Attacks
Scientists with Purdue Univervisty has posted a computer simulation of the 9/11 attack that shows what probably happened when the first plane hit the north tower. It covers just 3/4 of a second in realtime and shows what might have happened as the plane tore into and through the building. It also seperated out the jet fuel to show how it was spread thoughout the two floors helping with the eventual collapse of the building.
Click here for the CNN article about the simulation.
Click here for the CNN article about the simulation.
iPhone's Greatest Weakness
The Jesus Phone...er iPhone is just a little over a week away from release and everyone is behaving like its the second coming. Apple's stock keeps rising on just the buzz even though there is no evidence the phone is good, that consumers that are curious will translate into gonzo sales and more importantly as the PS3 learned to much pain, the damage that lack of supplies can cause. But really these are all concerns that can't be helped or can be beat.
Really though the greatest weakness for the iPhone is Apple's partner is this deal - AT&T. Most people forget that AT&T used to have its own wireless service back in the '90 that was so aweful that they had to rename it and start from scratch to wipe away the stain. The reason is simple, AT&T is arrogant. Always has been. If it thinks there is no competition, it really doesn't give two-shits about customer service and how much it screws the customer over. They just want the money. That attitude killed then in the growing cell market at the time. They learned from the mistake and built a mostly reputable and large business with Cingular.
However, this is the "new" AT&T and sadly this "new" AT&T seems to smell and act a whole lot like the "old" AT&T and once again that arrogance is likely to leak through since they believe there is no competition for the iPhone. As a result of this, I suspect the average consumer is going to get a sticker shock of at least $80 a month for basic iPhone plan of phone and data. It wouldn't surprise me if that number is even higher.
This is what I think will happen over the next few weeks. The iPhone will sell out in the first day. There will be problems with services on the second. There will be complaints about the phone also early on as people realize their unrealistic expectations of the Jesus phone didn't come true. Based on the sell out news, Apple stock will probably crest over the $200 mark before dropping back down as the backlash starts. Apple will probably address some concerns as they can but most will just be simply the result of the uninformed early adopters. After the initial few weeks of complaints/love, the hardware of the iPhone will be considered solid but probably not needed by most users out there. A regular phone will be just fine thanks and sales will be brisk but not insane. That's Apple's part in this.
For AT&T though, the fun is just beginning. It will start with unprepared and uniformed customer service agents both in the store and on the phone making ridiculous claims or offering horrible advice mostly because they are working from outdated scripts rather then direct experience with the phones. After the technical issues are ironed on the first few days, the complaints will start with people not being switched properly, poor coverage, poor signals, and just generally poor and uniformed customer service. This will not be the customer service's departments fault but AT&T's who decided to add on as few cheap help as they could to meet the initial demand and then dump em once things calm down.
The real fun begins though when people start getting those bills. Its one thing to drop $600+tax for a phone and sign a two year agreement, its quite another to see a $90 and up monthly statement coming in. That is when it will dawn on people that they probably just agreed to pay $600 for the phone + around $1200 a year for service for a grand total of $3000 over two years. For a cool looking phone. The late coming sticker shock combined with AT&T's less is more customer service mentality...that will be what hurts Apple more then anything.
Really though the greatest weakness for the iPhone is Apple's partner is this deal - AT&T. Most people forget that AT&T used to have its own wireless service back in the '90 that was so aweful that they had to rename it and start from scratch to wipe away the stain. The reason is simple, AT&T is arrogant. Always has been. If it thinks there is no competition, it really doesn't give two-shits about customer service and how much it screws the customer over. They just want the money. That attitude killed then in the growing cell market at the time. They learned from the mistake and built a mostly reputable and large business with Cingular.
However, this is the "new" AT&T and sadly this "new" AT&T seems to smell and act a whole lot like the "old" AT&T and once again that arrogance is likely to leak through since they believe there is no competition for the iPhone. As a result of this, I suspect the average consumer is going to get a sticker shock of at least $80 a month for basic iPhone plan of phone and data. It wouldn't surprise me if that number is even higher.
This is what I think will happen over the next few weeks. The iPhone will sell out in the first day. There will be problems with services on the second. There will be complaints about the phone also early on as people realize their unrealistic expectations of the Jesus phone didn't come true. Based on the sell out news, Apple stock will probably crest over the $200 mark before dropping back down as the backlash starts. Apple will probably address some concerns as they can but most will just be simply the result of the uninformed early adopters. After the initial few weeks of complaints/love, the hardware of the iPhone will be considered solid but probably not needed by most users out there. A regular phone will be just fine thanks and sales will be brisk but not insane. That's Apple's part in this.
For AT&T though, the fun is just beginning. It will start with unprepared and uniformed customer service agents both in the store and on the phone making ridiculous claims or offering horrible advice mostly because they are working from outdated scripts rather then direct experience with the phones. After the technical issues are ironed on the first few days, the complaints will start with people not being switched properly, poor coverage, poor signals, and just generally poor and uniformed customer service. This will not be the customer service's departments fault but AT&T's who decided to add on as few cheap help as they could to meet the initial demand and then dump em once things calm down.
The real fun begins though when people start getting those bills. Its one thing to drop $600+tax for a phone and sign a two year agreement, its quite another to see a $90 and up monthly statement coming in. That is when it will dawn on people that they probably just agreed to pay $600 for the phone + around $1200 a year for service for a grand total of $3000 over two years. For a cool looking phone. The late coming sticker shock combined with AT&T's less is more customer service mentality...that will be what hurts Apple more then anything.
Friday, June 15, 2007
"Hating the Ratings" By Mark Harris
I just finished reading a commentary by Mark Harris in the June 22 issue of Entertainment Weekly. The basic idea is that because Hostel: Part II was rated R (rather then X I guess) the system must be broken. As he states "Dump the NC-17 rating completely. It protects nobody and preserves the illusion that R-rated movies like Hostel II are okay for kids."
Basically, after reading the article, one thought came to mind "What a stupid little shit!". Its morons like him that allow for broken systems such as ratings system to exist. If your going to fix something like a rating system, do it for good reasons, not stupid ones like his that lay the research feet at everyone but those that should truly matter in the decision making process - the parents.
Now I do believe the ratings system is broken and needs to be fixed, but those problems are because some horrible film like Hostel. Its fundamental problem is its controlled by the studios, so right there you have a business motivation for ratings. On top of that is board is shrouded in mystery, there is no transparency in the process, no rules and regulations, just general guidelines. Guildlines that change based on who is in charge and making a vote that day. The boards treats studio films differently then non-studio films. Basically the votes are based on business needs and opinions. There is no regulation from within or without and no attempt to change it. Its a secret club and only a few are invited.
But Mark Harris's thesis is basically...the ratings should tell the parents what to do. If a parent makes a movie decision for their kids exclusivily off of ratings that is big problem number one. All its takes is a half-assed internet search to know that regardless of ratings, Hostel II should not be seen by kids. Its attempts like this, to make the job of parenting the purview of faceless strangers, that seems to be the root cause of many problems. You want to fix what ailes society, its real simple...make parents do their job. Anything other then that is a band aid and stupid little shits like Mark Harris just excerbate the problem.
Basically, after reading the article, one thought came to mind "What a stupid little shit!". Its morons like him that allow for broken systems such as ratings system to exist. If your going to fix something like a rating system, do it for good reasons, not stupid ones like his that lay the research feet at everyone but those that should truly matter in the decision making process - the parents.
Now I do believe the ratings system is broken and needs to be fixed, but those problems are because some horrible film like Hostel. Its fundamental problem is its controlled by the studios, so right there you have a business motivation for ratings. On top of that is board is shrouded in mystery, there is no transparency in the process, no rules and regulations, just general guidelines. Guildlines that change based on who is in charge and making a vote that day. The boards treats studio films differently then non-studio films. Basically the votes are based on business needs and opinions. There is no regulation from within or without and no attempt to change it. Its a secret club and only a few are invited.
But Mark Harris's thesis is basically...the ratings should tell the parents what to do. If a parent makes a movie decision for their kids exclusivily off of ratings that is big problem number one. All its takes is a half-assed internet search to know that regardless of ratings, Hostel II should not be seen by kids. Its attempts like this, to make the job of parenting the purview of faceless strangers, that seems to be the root cause of many problems. You want to fix what ailes society, its real simple...make parents do their job. Anything other then that is a band aid and stupid little shits like Mark Harris just excerbate the problem.
Starcraft 2 Protoss First Look
Available now is a first look and description of the new and improved Protoss for Starcraft 2.
Info from YouTube:
Starcraft 2 from PC gaming magazine unit preview
Zealot: Zealots are the standard infantry unit of the portoss from starcraft. Still equipped with a pair of glowing psionic blades for melee combat, the zealot will now charge the enemy to close distance with ranged units quicker than before.
Stalker: Stalkers are a new type of dark dragoon. They're fast moving and lightly armored with a powerful anti-air and anti-infantry weapon, but their secret weapon is there "blink" ability that will allow them to teleport anywhere in visual range in an instant
Immortal: A new type of heavy dragoon, the immortals will be equipped with a shield that activates only when hit by heavy weapons like siege tanks, making them excellent for assaulting heavily defended positions but weak against raiding parties with light weapons.
Observer: The invisible flying eyes of the Protoss are back. We can confirm they'll be in the game, but further details are shrouded in secrecy.
Colossus: True to it's name, the colossus is an enormous four-legged walker that rakes the ground with a heavy beam weapon. They will be extremely effective against small swarming units like zerglings or marines-their beams target one unit at a time, and instantly sweep to a new target when the first is destroyed. Using their long legs, they can step up and down ledges with ease.
Phoenix: When its standard fighter weapon wont do the job, the phoenix will be able to activate its overload ability to damage all enemy air units nearby, which also disables the phoenix itself for a few moments. If the overload doesn't demolish the enemy you'll be a sitting duck
Phase prism: .The new phase prism will act as both a troop transport and a mobile power pylon allowing you to restore functionality to a base when your pylons are destroyed by raiders or when you build away from your base. Combined with the warp-in tech. Youll be able to use them to crate and army anywhere on the map.
Warp ray: These flying weapons inflict additional damage the longer they fire on a single target as they bring as they bring more beams online, which will make them extremely powerful against large targets like battle cruisers and structures. Their focused fire makes them vulnerable against small anti-air units like marines.
High templar: The high templar is back and he'll bring his powerful psionic storm area attack with him. But he's gotten a handy new power he'll be able to create a force field to trap enemy units temporarily or create barriers. Blizzard testing has revealed some extremely effective bottlenecks tactics using him. The ability to say you can't go there anymore will be very powerful.
Dark templar: Just like in the first game the dark templar is a stealth unit that wreaks havoc to any force foolish enough to leave home without a detector. any new special abilities have yet to be revealed (more)
For more infor and screenshots, click here.
Info from YouTube:
Starcraft 2 from PC gaming magazine unit preview
Zealot: Zealots are the standard infantry unit of the portoss from starcraft. Still equipped with a pair of glowing psionic blades for melee combat, the zealot will now charge the enemy to close distance with ranged units quicker than before.
Stalker: Stalkers are a new type of dark dragoon. They're fast moving and lightly armored with a powerful anti-air and anti-infantry weapon, but their secret weapon is there "blink" ability that will allow them to teleport anywhere in visual range in an instant
Immortal: A new type of heavy dragoon, the immortals will be equipped with a shield that activates only when hit by heavy weapons like siege tanks, making them excellent for assaulting heavily defended positions but weak against raiding parties with light weapons.
Observer: The invisible flying eyes of the Protoss are back. We can confirm they'll be in the game, but further details are shrouded in secrecy.
Colossus: True to it's name, the colossus is an enormous four-legged walker that rakes the ground with a heavy beam weapon. They will be extremely effective against small swarming units like zerglings or marines-their beams target one unit at a time, and instantly sweep to a new target when the first is destroyed. Using their long legs, they can step up and down ledges with ease.
Phoenix: When its standard fighter weapon wont do the job, the phoenix will be able to activate its overload ability to damage all enemy air units nearby, which also disables the phoenix itself for a few moments. If the overload doesn't demolish the enemy you'll be a sitting duck
Phase prism: .The new phase prism will act as both a troop transport and a mobile power pylon allowing you to restore functionality to a base when your pylons are destroyed by raiders or when you build away from your base. Combined with the warp-in tech. Youll be able to use them to crate and army anywhere on the map.
Warp ray: These flying weapons inflict additional damage the longer they fire on a single target as they bring as they bring more beams online, which will make them extremely powerful against large targets like battle cruisers and structures. Their focused fire makes them vulnerable against small anti-air units like marines.
High templar: The high templar is back and he'll bring his powerful psionic storm area attack with him. But he's gotten a handy new power he'll be able to create a force field to trap enemy units temporarily or create barriers. Blizzard testing has revealed some extremely effective bottlenecks tactics using him. The ability to say you can't go there anymore will be very powerful.
Dark templar: Just like in the first game the dark templar is a stealth unit that wreaks havoc to any force foolish enough to leave home without a detector. any new special abilities have yet to be revealed (more)
For more infor and screenshots, click here.
Friday, June 08, 2007
Window Key Shortcuts
Nice video demonstration that shows that the windows key might actually be useful.
The shortcuts:
Windows key only = Start menu opens
Windows key + E = Internet Explorer opens
Windows key + R = Open Run command prompt
Windows key + F = Opens Search field
Windows key + D = Minimizes all windows, ie shows desktop, hit again to reopen
Windows key + M = Minimizes all windows, better to use the D shortcut
Windows key + F1 = Opens help menu (utterly useless)
Windows key + Pause/Break = Opens system properties
The shortcuts:
Windows key only = Start menu opens
Windows key + E = Internet Explorer opens
Windows key + R = Open Run command prompt
Windows key + F = Opens Search field
Windows key + D = Minimizes all windows, ie shows desktop, hit again to reopen
Windows key + M = Minimizes all windows, better to use the D shortcut
Windows key + F1 = Opens help menu (utterly useless)
Windows key + Pause/Break = Opens system properties
Thursday, June 07, 2007
Paris Hilton: Free Once Again
Further proof that the rich are truly above the law, Paris Hilton has been released from jail do to health reasons, rumored to be a rash. Instead the LA Sheriff's Department will put her under "house" arrest for 40 days with an ankle bracelet. Keep in mind that the "house" in this case is a multi-million dollar mansion with all the bells and whistles. Kind of place most people go on vacation to enjoy and its her day to day life. Not exactly a punishment to me.
If this would have been done for john q average of average or even poor wealth this would be such a big deal but we all know that if we did what she did, it would be a fine and jail time. A "rash" wouldn't lead to house arrest but a unsympathetic shrug and if lucky a visit to the prison doc.
If the press wasn't as lazy as they are now, what they should be doing is following the money. Clearly someone was paid to help pave the way for Paris' freedom.
If this would have been done for john q average of average or even poor wealth this would be such a big deal but we all know that if we did what she did, it would be a fine and jail time. A "rash" wouldn't lead to house arrest but a unsympathetic shrug and if lucky a visit to the prison doc.
If the press wasn't as lazy as they are now, what they should be doing is following the money. Clearly someone was paid to help pave the way for Paris' freedom.
AT&T: To Hell With Net Neutrality
From Crooks and Liars, AT&T chief Ed Whitacre has made it clear that he believes that screwing over the customers is what AT&T exists to do. The once and future monopoly has made it clear that its goal is to buy Congress so anti-net neutrality legislation can be passed. "Will congress let us do it? You bet they will - cus we don't call it cashin' in. We call it 'deregulation'." Below is a funny video about it.
He actually has a point. Congress would pass a law legalizing murder if enough money enters their coffers. As for the public in general, throw the world "deregulation" around and they will by it hook like and sinker even though the last 25 years of deregulation as not shown one postitive effect for consumers. Its been a boon for business, but the customers are forced to deal with a series of cartels be it cable companies, gas, telephones, communications, or credit cards.
“There’s a problem. It’s called Net Neutrality,” Whitacre told the heirs to AT&T’s telecommunications empire. “Well, frankly, we say to hell with that. We’re gonna put up some toll booths and start charging admission.”
He actually has a point. Congress would pass a law legalizing murder if enough money enters their coffers. As for the public in general, throw the world "deregulation" around and they will by it hook like and sinker even though the last 25 years of deregulation as not shown one postitive effect for consumers. Its been a boon for business, but the customers are forced to deal with a series of cartels be it cable companies, gas, telephones, communications, or credit cards.
“There’s a problem. It’s called Net Neutrality,” Whitacre told the heirs to AT&T’s telecommunications empire. “Well, frankly, we say to hell with that. We’re gonna put up some toll booths and start charging admission.”
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
Olbermann: The Nexus of Politics and Terror
Keith Olbermann updated his timeline of the Bush Administrations use of terrorism and fear to counter bad publicity and bolster its number pre and post election. It may be coincidence but its a very disturbing trend of abuse if true and if false indicates poor investigation and decisions making on those involved on what information is made available to the press and what isn't. Either way it stinks to high hell.
Click here to view the video.
Click here to view the video.
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