Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Big News Delayed
I teased some big news earlier this month and then forgot to follow up. Everyone who cares already knows, but Joanna is pregnant. Yah!!! That is all. Move along.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Michael Irvin's Hall Of Fame Status Questioned
Reading some football notes today during lunch I came across something that took me aback for a moment about former Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Michael Irvin. It was from a blog called Sobering Thoughts, written by Paul Tuns yesterday. Tuns was talking about the Hall of Fame inductees, including Irvin's former teammate Emmitt Smith. In the post, he made the claim, “I'm not sure that Michael Irvin really is a Canton-worthy WR and way too much was made of The Triplets finally being in the Hall of Fame together.”
Since Tuns’s declaration was not prefaced with something regarding Irvin’s off-the-field issues being the reason for his Hall of Fame exclusion, I have to assume he actually means that The Playmaker didn’t rack up enough statistics to make it into Canton. I was not the biggest football fan up until about three years ago (thank you fantasy football league), so since my memory can’t help with this article I decided I would need to do some research on whether Irvin’s numbers were Hall of Fame worthy.
Michael Irvin became eligible for the Hall of Fame in 2005, but he was not selected to forever be enshrined in the Hall until 2007, his third year of eligibility. His 750 career receptions, 11,904 reception yards and 47 100+ yard receiving games put him at 27th, 17th and third on the NFL’s all-time records. He amassed 65 receiving touchdowns and was elected to five Pro Bowls, earning the MVP honor in the 1992 Pro Bowl game. Irvin was also selected to the second team of the 1990s All Decade Team.
These are all great facts and figures, but what does it mean when compared to other Hall of Fame wide receivers? We’ll start with the most recent addition to the Hall, which included the all-time leading wide receiver in multiple categories.
Jerry Rice is a terrible person to compare Irvin to, only because Rice’s statistics will diminish the great things Irvin did in Dallas. However, to be fair I must compare Irvin to as many types of Hall of Famers as possible.
Prior to the announcement of who would be in the 2010 Class, it was a no-brainer that Rice would be among them as a first-year inductee, meaning he was selected in the first year of eligibility. Since his retirement, Rice has led the league in receptions (1,549; 447 ahead of second place), receiving yards (22,895; 7,961 ahead of second place), and receiving touchdowns (197; 65 ahead of second place). Along with all the accolades thrust upon him throughout the years as one of the greatest to ever play the game, Rice was selected to the first team for both the 1980s and 1990s All Decade Teams.
Now that we’ve gotten the greatest wide receiver of all time out of the way, let us move on to more common Hall of Fame players.
Another first-year inductee, who Irvin comes close to in a few categories, is Seahawks great Steve Largent. At the time of Largent’s retirement, he had recorded 819 receptions, 13,089 receiving yards, and 100 touchdowns, which were all records for a wide receiver at the time. Largent was also selected to seven Pro Bowls. As impressive as Largent’s career was, his receptions and receiving yards are so far out of reach of where Irvin sat. Largent had 69 more receptions and a little more than 1,000 yards. Had Irvin’s career not been cut short by a hard hit in Philadelphia, he might have been able to surpass those numbers.
A first-year Hall of Fame inductee whose only statistics greater than Irvin’s were touchdowns (85 to 65) was Paul Warfield, however, Irvin more than surpassed Warfield’s 427 receptions and 8,565 receiving yards. There may be other reasons Warfield was selected in his first year of eligibility that I overlooked, but from a statistical viewpoint there is nothing so outstanding that Irvin can’t be in the same category.
Two names synonymous with wide receiver greatness who share Irvin’s disappointment with not being named a first-year inductee are Art Monk and Lynn Swann. Monk’s numbers vastly outweigh Swann’s, but Swann has four Super Bowl rings to fall back on.
Monk currently sits at ninth on the all-time reception leader board with 940, 14th all time in receiving yards with 12,721, and tied at 34th all-time in receiving touchdowns with 68. The former Redskin was the first in NFL history to record a 100-reception season. He finished with five 1,000+ yard seasons, 33 100+ yard regular season games and five 100+ yard playoff games. In comparison, Irvin had six career 100+ yard receiving postseason games.
With the Steelers, Swann was selected to three Pro Bowls during a career that resulted in 336 receptions, 5,462 receiving yards and 51 touchdowns. In Swann’s defense, the Pittsburgh teams of the 1970s were a run-heavy offense that didn’t rely on the wide receiver talents as much as in today’s game.
A few other Hall of Fame pass catchers who don’t come even close to Irvin’s numbers are Fred Biletnikoff and former Cowboy Bob Hayes. Biletnikoff’s reception total sits at 589, but like Swann he was on a run-based offense. In 11 years with the Cowboys, Hayes had 371 reception and 7,414 receiving yards. His 71 receiving touchdowns do beat out Irvin though.
It is impossible to compare the greatness of one wide receiver to another from different teams, let alone different decades, but I think it’s slightly wacko to claim that Irvin doesn’t deserve to be in the Hall of Fame. His numbers speak for themselves.
Since Tuns’s declaration was not prefaced with something regarding Irvin’s off-the-field issues being the reason for his Hall of Fame exclusion, I have to assume he actually means that The Playmaker didn’t rack up enough statistics to make it into Canton. I was not the biggest football fan up until about three years ago (thank you fantasy football league), so since my memory can’t help with this article I decided I would need to do some research on whether Irvin’s numbers were Hall of Fame worthy.
Michael Irvin became eligible for the Hall of Fame in 2005, but he was not selected to forever be enshrined in the Hall until 2007, his third year of eligibility. His 750 career receptions, 11,904 reception yards and 47 100+ yard receiving games put him at 27th, 17th and third on the NFL’s all-time records. He amassed 65 receiving touchdowns and was elected to five Pro Bowls, earning the MVP honor in the 1992 Pro Bowl game. Irvin was also selected to the second team of the 1990s All Decade Team.
These are all great facts and figures, but what does it mean when compared to other Hall of Fame wide receivers? We’ll start with the most recent addition to the Hall, which included the all-time leading wide receiver in multiple categories.
Jerry Rice is a terrible person to compare Irvin to, only because Rice’s statistics will diminish the great things Irvin did in Dallas. However, to be fair I must compare Irvin to as many types of Hall of Famers as possible.
Prior to the announcement of who would be in the 2010 Class, it was a no-brainer that Rice would be among them as a first-year inductee, meaning he was selected in the first year of eligibility. Since his retirement, Rice has led the league in receptions (1,549; 447 ahead of second place), receiving yards (22,895; 7,961 ahead of second place), and receiving touchdowns (197; 65 ahead of second place). Along with all the accolades thrust upon him throughout the years as one of the greatest to ever play the game, Rice was selected to the first team for both the 1980s and 1990s All Decade Teams.
Now that we’ve gotten the greatest wide receiver of all time out of the way, let us move on to more common Hall of Fame players.
Another first-year inductee, who Irvin comes close to in a few categories, is Seahawks great Steve Largent. At the time of Largent’s retirement, he had recorded 819 receptions, 13,089 receiving yards, and 100 touchdowns, which were all records for a wide receiver at the time. Largent was also selected to seven Pro Bowls. As impressive as Largent’s career was, his receptions and receiving yards are so far out of reach of where Irvin sat. Largent had 69 more receptions and a little more than 1,000 yards. Had Irvin’s career not been cut short by a hard hit in Philadelphia, he might have been able to surpass those numbers.
A first-year Hall of Fame inductee whose only statistics greater than Irvin’s were touchdowns (85 to 65) was Paul Warfield, however, Irvin more than surpassed Warfield’s 427 receptions and 8,565 receiving yards. There may be other reasons Warfield was selected in his first year of eligibility that I overlooked, but from a statistical viewpoint there is nothing so outstanding that Irvin can’t be in the same category.
Two names synonymous with wide receiver greatness who share Irvin’s disappointment with not being named a first-year inductee are Art Monk and Lynn Swann. Monk’s numbers vastly outweigh Swann’s, but Swann has four Super Bowl rings to fall back on.
Monk currently sits at ninth on the all-time reception leader board with 940, 14th all time in receiving yards with 12,721, and tied at 34th all-time in receiving touchdowns with 68. The former Redskin was the first in NFL history to record a 100-reception season. He finished with five 1,000+ yard seasons, 33 100+ yard regular season games and five 100+ yard playoff games. In comparison, Irvin had six career 100+ yard receiving postseason games.
With the Steelers, Swann was selected to three Pro Bowls during a career that resulted in 336 receptions, 5,462 receiving yards and 51 touchdowns. In Swann’s defense, the Pittsburgh teams of the 1970s were a run-heavy offense that didn’t rely on the wide receiver talents as much as in today’s game.
A few other Hall of Fame pass catchers who don’t come even close to Irvin’s numbers are Fred Biletnikoff and former Cowboy Bob Hayes. Biletnikoff’s reception total sits at 589, but like Swann he was on a run-based offense. In 11 years with the Cowboys, Hayes had 371 reception and 7,414 receiving yards. His 71 receiving touchdowns do beat out Irvin though.
It is impossible to compare the greatness of one wide receiver to another from different teams, let alone different decades, but I think it’s slightly wacko to claim that Irvin doesn’t deserve to be in the Hall of Fame. His numbers speak for themselves.
Thursday, August 05, 2010
All Is Right Again In The World
I woke up this morning to some spectacular news that included Chuck Greenberg and Nolan Ryan putting in the winning bid at the Texas Rangers auction sale. Everything that worried and depressed me yesterday about Mark Cuban possibly controlling my local baseball club was for naught.
This news was coupled with some other things that I will get into detail about later, but I was also pleasantly surprised to hear the Rangers had rallied in Seattle to win last night, which was news to me since I went to sleep with the Mariners leading 5-2. Everything is going swimmingly well right now.
This news was coupled with some other things that I will get into detail about later, but I was also pleasantly surprised to hear the Rangers had rallied in Seattle to win last night, which was news to me since I went to sleep with the Mariners leading 5-2. Everything is going swimmingly well right now.
Wednesday, August 04, 2010
My Uneducated, Unnecessary Thoughts On The Sale Of The Texas Rangers
I have not been keeping up with every detail of this ludicrous, three-ring circus act that has been the sale of my hometown Texas Rangers, but constantly today I’ve checked as many websites as my work computer will allow so I can know what is going on with the auction that will result in a new owner of the team.
Since Nolan Ryan has become president of the team, a swell of support has grown around the Texas Rangers that I honestly believe has helped make the players on the field better. Of course, it hasn’t hurt that since Ryan’s takeover of on-the-field decisions (and even a bit before that when General Manager Jon Daniels started making some pretty amazing trades) this team has become a true contender for post-season success. Take for example Ryan ignoring pitch counts and working the starting pitchers longer innings in order to give some relief to the bullpen. In the short-term that mantra of thinking seems to be working and it has even been copied by other teams around the league.
Since learning of Mark Cuban’s interest in putting in a bid to purchase the Rangers with Houston businessman Jim Crane, my crush on baseball has started to wane. I just don’t want to think of a world where Nolan Ryan isn’t a part of this team again, and I can only imagine how it would be for me if I had taken an interest in the former pitcher when he was still a player for the Arlington-based team, recalling his great moments like throwing his seventh no-hitter or putting a batter in a headlock during a fight on the mound.
Who is not to say Cuban wouldn’t leave Ryan as the president of the team when he takes over, but I have a feeling if the Greenberg Sports Group, which includes Pittsburgh attorney Chuck Greenberg and Nolan Ryan, doesn’t win at the auction, Ryan will bow out as leader of the team.
It is also speculated Cuban would eventually move the Rangers to Dallas, where his basketball team, the Dallas Mavericks, currently reside. Being from Arlington, I love having the Ballpark in the city I grew up in. It is in a central location of the metroplex, provides easy access to and from the stadium, and it now sits right next door to Jerry Jones’s Cowboys Stadium. It has become a true sports complex.
I’m not saying Mark Cuban would be a bad owner. He would be an owner totally committed to winning a World Series who does anything it takes to accomplish that goal, which includes throwing money at top players like Cliff Lee to keep them at the Ballpark and away from the hated Yankees. But by doing such a thing, doesn’t that in essence make you a copy of the Steinbrenner-way-of-thinking and in essence turn you in to a mini-Yankee team? I don’t want that to be the Texas Rangers. This team has proven that you can build a farm system full of potentially great major league stars with solid drafting and smart trades. Sure, it took years of abysmal seasons that essentially ended in June (sometimes May) for things to start looking bright for our Texas Rangers. However, once the boat was set on the right course and the entire team, from management on down to the fan base, got on board, it didn’t take long for the seats to start filling and a competitive team to show up day in and day out.
I fear we lose this mentality if Nolan Ryan says goodbye to the Texas Rangers again. My sports knowledge is nothing when it comes to the grand schemes of baseball teams, but my gut tells me that Mark Cuban as the owner of the Texas Rangers will not be a better outcome than the Greenberg Sports Group owning the team.
Since Nolan Ryan has become president of the team, a swell of support has grown around the Texas Rangers that I honestly believe has helped make the players on the field better. Of course, it hasn’t hurt that since Ryan’s takeover of on-the-field decisions (and even a bit before that when General Manager Jon Daniels started making some pretty amazing trades) this team has become a true contender for post-season success. Take for example Ryan ignoring pitch counts and working the starting pitchers longer innings in order to give some relief to the bullpen. In the short-term that mantra of thinking seems to be working and it has even been copied by other teams around the league.
Since learning of Mark Cuban’s interest in putting in a bid to purchase the Rangers with Houston businessman Jim Crane, my crush on baseball has started to wane. I just don’t want to think of a world where Nolan Ryan isn’t a part of this team again, and I can only imagine how it would be for me if I had taken an interest in the former pitcher when he was still a player for the Arlington-based team, recalling his great moments like throwing his seventh no-hitter or putting a batter in a headlock during a fight on the mound.
Who is not to say Cuban wouldn’t leave Ryan as the president of the team when he takes over, but I have a feeling if the Greenberg Sports Group, which includes Pittsburgh attorney Chuck Greenberg and Nolan Ryan, doesn’t win at the auction, Ryan will bow out as leader of the team.
It is also speculated Cuban would eventually move the Rangers to Dallas, where his basketball team, the Dallas Mavericks, currently reside. Being from Arlington, I love having the Ballpark in the city I grew up in. It is in a central location of the metroplex, provides easy access to and from the stadium, and it now sits right next door to Jerry Jones’s Cowboys Stadium. It has become a true sports complex.
I’m not saying Mark Cuban would be a bad owner. He would be an owner totally committed to winning a World Series who does anything it takes to accomplish that goal, which includes throwing money at top players like Cliff Lee to keep them at the Ballpark and away from the hated Yankees. But by doing such a thing, doesn’t that in essence make you a copy of the Steinbrenner-way-of-thinking and in essence turn you in to a mini-Yankee team? I don’t want that to be the Texas Rangers. This team has proven that you can build a farm system full of potentially great major league stars with solid drafting and smart trades. Sure, it took years of abysmal seasons that essentially ended in June (sometimes May) for things to start looking bright for our Texas Rangers. However, once the boat was set on the right course and the entire team, from management on down to the fan base, got on board, it didn’t take long for the seats to start filling and a competitive team to show up day in and day out.
I fear we lose this mentality if Nolan Ryan says goodbye to the Texas Rangers again. My sports knowledge is nothing when it comes to the grand schemes of baseball teams, but my gut tells me that Mark Cuban as the owner of the Texas Rangers will not be a better outcome than the Greenberg Sports Group owning the team.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Just Dropped By To Say Hi
I haven't posted in a while, so I thought I would pop in and give a few updates.
I am being given a raise at work, which was highly unexpected and even more highly appreciated. My boss is wonderful.
I'm going to Weatherford this weekend to play cards. Hopefully, I have a decent night and get some extra money to help pay for new tires my car badly needs.
My daughter's third birthday is coming up in a couple of weeks, which means my thirtieth is also on the way. Joanna and I are planning to rent a bounce house for the kids to play on and order pizza for everyone to enjoy. Should be a good time.
Football is right around the corner, but the Texas Rangers have made life very interesting around the metroplex as they continue to fight for a chance at a championship, all while going through an ownership change/debacle. With football coming, that means fantasy football is also here. I am already signed up for four leagues. It will be the most I've ever been a part of. Two of my teams are a part of keeper leagues. My group of friends tried this a couple seasons ago, but it didn't stick. We'll see how these two leagues go.
That is about it. Hopefully something worth writing about happens soon that I can post more frequently. Check out my Living the Dream blog to see how Saturday night goes.
I am being given a raise at work, which was highly unexpected and even more highly appreciated. My boss is wonderful.
I'm going to Weatherford this weekend to play cards. Hopefully, I have a decent night and get some extra money to help pay for new tires my car badly needs.
My daughter's third birthday is coming up in a couple of weeks, which means my thirtieth is also on the way. Joanna and I are planning to rent a bounce house for the kids to play on and order pizza for everyone to enjoy. Should be a good time.
Football is right around the corner, but the Texas Rangers have made life very interesting around the metroplex as they continue to fight for a chance at a championship, all while going through an ownership change/debacle. With football coming, that means fantasy football is also here. I am already signed up for four leagues. It will be the most I've ever been a part of. Two of my teams are a part of keeper leagues. My group of friends tried this a couple seasons ago, but it didn't stick. We'll see how these two leagues go.
That is about it. Hopefully something worth writing about happens soon that I can post more frequently. Check out my Living the Dream blog to see how Saturday night goes.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
A Nostalgic Find
While on my lunch break today, I found a Web site that contained a written history of the Tournament of Champions. The Tournament of Champions, or TOC as it was better known, was designed to develop the poker skills of our group of friends and find out who the best player was. It certainly helped with our game, but I don't think we ever conceded that it determined the true "Great One."
The site can be found at http://www.associatepublisher.com/e/t/to/tournament_of_champions.htm. I have a feeling I wrote the article at one time, but I don't remember where I posted it to where it would show up at this site.
The site can be found at http://www.associatepublisher.com/e/t/to/tournament_of_champions.htm. I have a feeling I wrote the article at one time, but I don't remember where I posted it to where it would show up at this site.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
New Pixar Movie, New Rankings
Every time a new Pixar movie is released I rank the films in order of my preference. This doesn't necessarily mean that I believe my ranking is superior to anyone else's and it certainly doesn't list the movies in order of their greatness. It is simply a list of my most to least favorite of Pixar's work. While the movie that comes in at number one is not necessarily their best effort or story, it does entertain me the most and therefore gets the top spot.
And on to the list, which I have included next to each movie the IMDb ranking I have assigned to each movie.
1. The Incredibles - 10
2. Toy Story - 10
3. Finding Nemo - 10
4. Up - 10
5. WALL-E - 9
6. Toy Story 3 - 9
7. Ratatouille - 8
8. Monsters, Inc. - 8
9. Toy Story 2 - 8
10. A Bug's Life - 8
11. Cars - 7
And on to the list, which I have included next to each movie the IMDb ranking I have assigned to each movie.
1. The Incredibles - 10
2. Toy Story - 10
3. Finding Nemo - 10
4. Up - 10
5. WALL-E - 9
6. Toy Story 3 - 9
7. Ratatouille - 8
8. Monsters, Inc. - 8
9. Toy Story 2 - 8
10. A Bug's Life - 8
11. Cars - 7
Friday, April 30, 2010
"Deep Thoughts" by Sean Pamphilon
I'm watching ESPN's 30 for 30 episode about Ricky Williams right now, and while the content is interesting and it gives a great first-hand account of why the polarizing athlete is the way he is, I can't get past the director. Sean Pamphilon is behind the camera asking the questions of the interviewee and commenting throughout the program, but all I think about when he speaks is the voice of SNL's "Deep Thoughts by Jack Handey" skits. I keep thinking he is at some point going to finish a monologue with how he took his kid to what he said would be Disneyland, but instead was a burned down building and how although the child was sad the joke was appreciated deep down by both.
Check This Out
The two people who check this blog out not only already know what I am about to talk about, but one of them is directly involved in it, but I'm still going to bring it up. My buddy James is on a trip to the Holy Lands right now and he is writing down his experience. If you are interested then go to thejamesmiller.wordpress.com.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Lost Prediction Updates
As each week passes and we come closer to finishing the phenomenon that is Lost, I will continue to see how close I come with certain guesses at how the show will end and what will happen with episode cliffhangers. So let's see where we stand.
Jack becoming the new Jacob: Considering his conversation with Sawyer about feeling a void when he left the island the first time and choosing not to go home on the submarine with the rest of the group, it looks more likely that he is staying behind. I'm feeling more confident in this prediction.
The rest of the Oceanic 815 group and friends leave: With Sawyer, Kate, Hurley, Sun, Jin, Claire, and Lapidus all being held at gunpoint at the end of "The Last Recruit" this idea doesn't look good, but they will get out of this somehow. Sawyer will probably talk them out of it if I had to guess.
Desmond hit Locke to get him with Jack: That happened just as I guessed it would. Might not have been a shocking guess to get right, but still was good of me to put two and two together. Now how does Desmond know that doing all these things is going to get the results he wants, I have no idea.
Smoke monster takes form of dead on the island: Nailed that one. Again, not earth shattering, but still nice to know I am keeping up.
New predictions:
I don't really have any. I am pretty confident Sayid did't kill Desmond and probably even let him out of the hole, but that is probably obvious. The real question is what is going on inside Sayid. I really don't know anything about that.
Jack becoming the new Jacob: Considering his conversation with Sawyer about feeling a void when he left the island the first time and choosing not to go home on the submarine with the rest of the group, it looks more likely that he is staying behind. I'm feeling more confident in this prediction.
The rest of the Oceanic 815 group and friends leave: With Sawyer, Kate, Hurley, Sun, Jin, Claire, and Lapidus all being held at gunpoint at the end of "The Last Recruit" this idea doesn't look good, but they will get out of this somehow. Sawyer will probably talk them out of it if I had to guess.
Desmond hit Locke to get him with Jack: That happened just as I guessed it would. Might not have been a shocking guess to get right, but still was good of me to put two and two together. Now how does Desmond know that doing all these things is going to get the results he wants, I have no idea.
Smoke monster takes form of dead on the island: Nailed that one. Again, not earth shattering, but still nice to know I am keeping up.
New predictions:
I don't really have any. I am pretty confident Sayid did't kill Desmond and probably even let him out of the hole, but that is probably obvious. The real question is what is going on inside Sayid. I really don't know anything about that.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Got A New Job
The title says it all. I got a new job working at the corporate office of Colonial National Mortgage. It might be just temporary though, so I could be back in this position again soon. We will see.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
My LOST Prediction
As the sensational series Lost is wrapping up its final story with the battle between good and evil coming to a head, I wanted to get down on paper what I believe will occur in the end. I truly don't expect this prediction to actually turn out to be correct, but it will be fun to see how close I come. This should go without saying, but the following is going to contain some spoilers. So if you haven't seen up to the episode "Happily Ever After" then don't read on.
Okay. After last night's episode of Hurley becoming a leader on the island and even lying to members of his group in order to get his way, Desmond is taking initiative in the flash-sideways world by getting members of Oceanic 815 to see memories of their lives on the island (despite never really ever being on the island in that particular timeline), and Jacob's ultimate wish to find a replacement among the candidates to watch over the island now that he is gone.
My overall guess as to what the ending is going to be is that the flash-sideways timeline will merge back with the original timeline. The fact that Desmond, Hurley and Libby have had visions of the original timeline makes me believe that is where they belong. I think Jack will become the island's protector as he has fought so hard to not believe in fate or that the island is where he belongs, but his being a man of science is coming to an end and he will ultimately be the man of faith who makes sure that the smoke monster cannot leave the island like Jacob did before. The rest of the Oceanic 815 group and friends will leave the island after stopping the smoke monster's plans.
As to why Desmond hit Locke in the flash-sideways timeline from last night, I think it was to get him in the hospital where Jack will perform surgery on him, saving his life, which will get their memories kickstarted just like Hurley's did when he kissed Libby.
I also think that smoke monster can take the form of people who die on the island such as Christian Shepherd (Jack's dad) and send people on tasks that they think are for the greater good. Take for example when John Locke went in Jacob's cabin but the ash circle had been broken and Christian was inside to tell him he needed to bring back the Oceanic Six and he would have to die to do it. I believe that was smoke monster getting Locke to do what he needed in order to then take his form later.
With that belief, I think Michael showed up last night to get Hurley to do what he did so the plane wouldn't be blown up and to get the rest of the people smoke monster needed in order to leave the island.
We will see how I do on these predictions as the final episodes play out. I will update as each week passes with how close I am coming to being accurate or way wrong (which will likely end of the latter).
Okay. After last night's episode of Hurley becoming a leader on the island and even lying to members of his group in order to get his way, Desmond is taking initiative in the flash-sideways world by getting members of Oceanic 815 to see memories of their lives on the island (despite never really ever being on the island in that particular timeline), and Jacob's ultimate wish to find a replacement among the candidates to watch over the island now that he is gone.
My overall guess as to what the ending is going to be is that the flash-sideways timeline will merge back with the original timeline. The fact that Desmond, Hurley and Libby have had visions of the original timeline makes me believe that is where they belong. I think Jack will become the island's protector as he has fought so hard to not believe in fate or that the island is where he belongs, but his being a man of science is coming to an end and he will ultimately be the man of faith who makes sure that the smoke monster cannot leave the island like Jacob did before. The rest of the Oceanic 815 group and friends will leave the island after stopping the smoke monster's plans.
As to why Desmond hit Locke in the flash-sideways timeline from last night, I think it was to get him in the hospital where Jack will perform surgery on him, saving his life, which will get their memories kickstarted just like Hurley's did when he kissed Libby.
I also think that smoke monster can take the form of people who die on the island such as Christian Shepherd (Jack's dad) and send people on tasks that they think are for the greater good. Take for example when John Locke went in Jacob's cabin but the ash circle had been broken and Christian was inside to tell him he needed to bring back the Oceanic Six and he would have to die to do it. I believe that was smoke monster getting Locke to do what he needed in order to then take his form later.
With that belief, I think Michael showed up last night to get Hurley to do what he did so the plane wouldn't be blown up and to get the rest of the people smoke monster needed in order to leave the island.
We will see how I do on these predictions as the final episodes play out. I will update as each week passes with how close I am coming to being accurate or way wrong (which will likely end of the latter).
Tuesday, April 06, 2010
A Look At The Past Super Bowl Halftime Shows
Just finishing Super Bowl XXXIX where the New England Patriots sealed the validity of their dynasty after beating out the Philadelphia Eagles, I started pondering how the halftime shows have changed since the 2004 Janet Jackson wardrobe malfunction disaster. The following is a list of shows the NFL has put on in the past decade during the halftime of each Super Bowl, a brief description of the show, and how enjoyable it was.
2001:
The theme of the show was The Kings of Rock and Pop and it featured Aerosmith, 'N Sync, Britney Spears, Mary J. Blige and Nelly. First of all we need to focus on whether these really are rock and pop royalty. At the time, 'N Sync and Britney Spears were about as big as you could get, but the combination of them with Aerosmith, Mary J. Blige and Nelly is just awful.
The song selection included "Bye, Bye, Bye," "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing," "It's Gonna Be Me," "Jaded," and "Walk This Way."
The idea of combining big names to create an even bigger event may work for some concerts, but that doesn't mean the producer (which in this case was MTV) should pile acts that have no business sharing the same stage. Sadly, up until Jackson's epic costume blunder this would be a pretty common theme for the Super Bowl halftime show.
2002:
U2 was the sole act to pay tribute to the 9/11 victims with "Beautiful Day," "MLK," and "Where the Streets Have No Name." It was a simple, somber and great show that included the names of those who died from the terrorist attacks on a giant backdrop. Clear Channel Entertainment produced this concert, and it was their only such event before forming into Live Nation in 2005. In 2009, Sports Illustrated's website, SI.com, ranked the show as the best in Super Bowl history.
2003:
Producers Jimmy Iovine and Joel Gallen brought together three random acts for Super Bowl XXXVII. Those performers were Shania Twain, No Doubt, and Sting. The songs included "Man! I Feel Like a Woman," "Up!," "Just a Girl," and "Message in a Bottle."
A forgettable concert that proves by trying to do too much and appease multiple music fans, it instead alienates more than it attracts.
2004:
MTV was given another chance to produce the halftime show, whose theme was Rock the Vote, and the television network was up to their old tricks by bringing together Janet Jackson, Justin Timberlake, P. Diddy, Nelly, and Kid Rock. Songs heard were "All for You," "Diddy" to the tune of "Mickey," Hot in Here," "Mo Money Mo Problems," "Bawitdaba," "Cowboy," "Rhythm Nation," and "Rock Your Body" (which resulted in the infamous wardrobe malfunction).
Personally, not one song on the set list had me tapping my foot, let alone singing along with, during the performance. Despite the undistinctive concert, it ended up being the most talked about moment of the big game.
2005:
The greatest thing to come out of Jackson and Timberlake's "accident" was the downsizing of acts for each show. Since 2005, every year has featured only one performer or band per game (if you don't count a marching band with Prince). The same two producers have been used for each year as well. Don Mischer Productions was selected for 2005-2009 and White Cherry Entertainment shared responsibilities in 2007-2009 and worked alone in 2010.
The first year was Paul McCartney, who was considered a safe choice. McCartney's song selection was "Drive My Car," "Get Back," "Live and Let Die," and "Hey Jude."
2006:
A year after a Beatle took sport's biggest musical stage, the second most popular band to come out of the United Kingdom was selected. The Rolling Stones played "Start Me Up," "Rough Justice," and "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction." Fallout from the wardrobe malfunction was still taking place as a five-second delay was put into use for the performance and lyrics were censored for sexually explicit lyrics, which was agreed to by the band prior to the show.
2007:
Prince shared the stage with the Florida A&M University Marching 100 Band for Super Bowl XLI. The music heard during the event included "We Will Rock You," "Let's Go Crazy," "Baby, I'm a Star," "Proud Mary," "All Along the Watchtower," "Best of You," and "Purple Rain."
The stage was in the shape of the symbol Prince is known best by outlined in lights. Audience members were also given flashlights to shine on the stage during "Purple Rain." Following the performance, music critics considered it the best show in the history of the Super Bowl.
2008:
Super Bowl XLII began what could be called the Senior Citizens Trilogy of Halftime Acts. The show selected in 2008 was Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. The upbeat and energetic show featured "American Girl," "I Won't Back Down," "Free Fallin'," and "Runnin' Down a Dream." The performance kicked off the band's world tour and was later nominated for an Emmy Award.
2009:
Second in the "Old Man's Three-Year Show" was Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band. The group put on a hokey NFL-themed show that included a referee coming on stage to throw a flag for "delay of game" as the show was running long. The Miami Horns and a gospel choir were included in the theatrics. Songs included "Tenth Avenue Freeze-out," "Born to Run," "Working on a Dream," and "Glory Days."
2010:
The Who is the most recent group to take the Super Bowl halftime show stage, playing a medley of "Pinball Wizard," "Baba O'Reilly," "Who Are You," "See Me, Feel Me," and "Won't Get Fooled Again." For the first time since 2000, no crowd was allowed around the stage on the field.
So what does 2011 hold in store for the Super Bowl halftime show? Will it continue the "grandfather" acts by booking The Eagles or a similar performer or will those in charge take a chance on a fresher, more youth-friendly singer/band.
I personally have no problem with the groups who have been selected in the last six years. I am hoping the same decisions are made for many years to come.
2001:
The theme of the show was The Kings of Rock and Pop and it featured Aerosmith, 'N Sync, Britney Spears, Mary J. Blige and Nelly. First of all we need to focus on whether these really are rock and pop royalty. At the time, 'N Sync and Britney Spears were about as big as you could get, but the combination of them with Aerosmith, Mary J. Blige and Nelly is just awful.
The song selection included "Bye, Bye, Bye," "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing," "It's Gonna Be Me," "Jaded," and "Walk This Way."
The idea of combining big names to create an even bigger event may work for some concerts, but that doesn't mean the producer (which in this case was MTV) should pile acts that have no business sharing the same stage. Sadly, up until Jackson's epic costume blunder this would be a pretty common theme for the Super Bowl halftime show.
2002:
U2 was the sole act to pay tribute to the 9/11 victims with "Beautiful Day," "MLK," and "Where the Streets Have No Name." It was a simple, somber and great show that included the names of those who died from the terrorist attacks on a giant backdrop. Clear Channel Entertainment produced this concert, and it was their only such event before forming into Live Nation in 2005. In 2009, Sports Illustrated's website, SI.com, ranked the show as the best in Super Bowl history.
2003:
Producers Jimmy Iovine and Joel Gallen brought together three random acts for Super Bowl XXXVII. Those performers were Shania Twain, No Doubt, and Sting. The songs included "Man! I Feel Like a Woman," "Up!," "Just a Girl," and "Message in a Bottle."
A forgettable concert that proves by trying to do too much and appease multiple music fans, it instead alienates more than it attracts.
2004:
MTV was given another chance to produce the halftime show, whose theme was Rock the Vote, and the television network was up to their old tricks by bringing together Janet Jackson, Justin Timberlake, P. Diddy, Nelly, and Kid Rock. Songs heard were "All for You," "Diddy" to the tune of "Mickey," Hot in Here," "Mo Money Mo Problems," "Bawitdaba," "Cowboy," "Rhythm Nation," and "Rock Your Body" (which resulted in the infamous wardrobe malfunction).
Personally, not one song on the set list had me tapping my foot, let alone singing along with, during the performance. Despite the undistinctive concert, it ended up being the most talked about moment of the big game.
2005:
The greatest thing to come out of Jackson and Timberlake's "accident" was the downsizing of acts for each show. Since 2005, every year has featured only one performer or band per game (if you don't count a marching band with Prince). The same two producers have been used for each year as well. Don Mischer Productions was selected for 2005-2009 and White Cherry Entertainment shared responsibilities in 2007-2009 and worked alone in 2010.
The first year was Paul McCartney, who was considered a safe choice. McCartney's song selection was "Drive My Car," "Get Back," "Live and Let Die," and "Hey Jude."
2006:
A year after a Beatle took sport's biggest musical stage, the second most popular band to come out of the United Kingdom was selected. The Rolling Stones played "Start Me Up," "Rough Justice," and "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction." Fallout from the wardrobe malfunction was still taking place as a five-second delay was put into use for the performance and lyrics were censored for sexually explicit lyrics, which was agreed to by the band prior to the show.
2007:
Prince shared the stage with the Florida A&M University Marching 100 Band for Super Bowl XLI. The music heard during the event included "We Will Rock You," "Let's Go Crazy," "Baby, I'm a Star," "Proud Mary," "All Along the Watchtower," "Best of You," and "Purple Rain."
The stage was in the shape of the symbol Prince is known best by outlined in lights. Audience members were also given flashlights to shine on the stage during "Purple Rain." Following the performance, music critics considered it the best show in the history of the Super Bowl.
2008:
Super Bowl XLII began what could be called the Senior Citizens Trilogy of Halftime Acts. The show selected in 2008 was Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. The upbeat and energetic show featured "American Girl," "I Won't Back Down," "Free Fallin'," and "Runnin' Down a Dream." The performance kicked off the band's world tour and was later nominated for an Emmy Award.
2009:
Second in the "Old Man's Three-Year Show" was Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band. The group put on a hokey NFL-themed show that included a referee coming on stage to throw a flag for "delay of game" as the show was running long. The Miami Horns and a gospel choir were included in the theatrics. Songs included "Tenth Avenue Freeze-out," "Born to Run," "Working on a Dream," and "Glory Days."
2010:
The Who is the most recent group to take the Super Bowl halftime show stage, playing a medley of "Pinball Wizard," "Baba O'Reilly," "Who Are You," "See Me, Feel Me," and "Won't Get Fooled Again." For the first time since 2000, no crowd was allowed around the stage on the field.
So what does 2011 hold in store for the Super Bowl halftime show? Will it continue the "grandfather" acts by booking The Eagles or a similar performer or will those in charge take a chance on a fresher, more youth-friendly singer/band.
I personally have no problem with the groups who have been selected in the last six years. I am hoping the same decisions are made for many years to come.
Monday, April 05, 2010
Ranger's Opening Day Memory(s)
I'm sitting here enjoying MLB's Opening Day while watching the Rangers battle the Toronto Bluejays with my wife. Baseball's Opening Day is a special feeling in all sports fans' lives and today's experience could only be better if we were actually at the Ballpark watching. But Joanna made hotdogs and we have the windows open so a breeze comes through the living room. We've created as close a feeling to the real deal as we can.
One humorous moment from the bottom of the second inning was when Vladimir Guerrero was up to bat. Going into the break prior to Vlad's at bat Joanna was saying how she couldn't muster the appropriate sensation that a fan should have for a new player (which was somewhat understood due to Vlad being an Angel for so long). She said she just couldn't bring herself to cheer for the guy.
That was short-lived, however, because once Blue Jay pitcher Shaun Marcum pegged Vlad in the back she was screaming at how blatant it was Marcum was aiming for the Ranger's clean-up hitter. Her turnaround was quite amazing, but that is what makes sports such a beautiful and pleasurable hobby.
8th Inning Update:
Watching Neftali Feliz on the mound today, I was really expecting the same electric feeling the young pitcher from the Dominican Republic gave the audience every time he threw the ball last season, but this is not that same feeling. I'm not sure what is happening, but Feliz has only struck one guy out, he walked another, and a third batter slugged it into left field. Pitching coach Mike Maddux has even had to come talk to the power pitcher who is supposed to be our eighth inning shutdown pitcher.
Well Feliz has now been pulled out after another single that scored the winning run. I hope it was just Opening Day jitters that had Feliz so shaky. We'll see.
9th Inning Update:
Woohoo Nelson Cruz! What a game!
Post-game Update:
HELLO WIN COLUMN!!! This was a great Opening Day. They weren't getting any hits but they hung in there and stuck with it. Barring any injuries or other kind of setbacks out of the team's control, this should be a great season.
8th Inning Update:
Watching Neftali Feliz on the mound today, I was really expecting the same electric feeling the young pitcher from the Dominican Republic gave the audience every time he threw the ball last season, but this is not that same feeling. I'm not sure what is happening, but Feliz has only struck one guy out, he walked another, and a third batter slugged it into left field. Pitching coach Mike Maddux has even had to come talk to the power pitcher who is supposed to be our eighth inning shutdown pitcher.
Well Feliz has now been pulled out after another single that scored the winning run. I hope it was just Opening Day jitters that had Feliz so shaky. We'll see.
9th Inning Update:
Woohoo Nelson Cruz! What a game!
Post-game Update:
HELLO WIN COLUMN!!! This was a great Opening Day. They weren't getting any hits but they hung in there and stuck with it. Barring any injuries or other kind of setbacks out of the team's control, this should be a great season.
Thursday, April 01, 2010
A List For Me
Since I have a readership of one here at Have Blog, Will Travel (that being myself), I am not too worried anyone will waste their time reading this post. However, should you stumble into my world and be reading this I wanted to warn you that this list is not going to be that important to anyone but me.
Turner Classic Movies announced they are holding a film festival later this month in Hollywood with many films like 2001: A Space Odyssey and Casablanca being screened. While I don't plan on attending a screening, despite my total desire to see a classic or two on the big screen, I started thinking about all the older films I have seen that originally were released either before my time or when I was too young to remember and/or care. So I decided to put down on electronic paper the movies I have seen at special screenings that are important to me. The list is in no particular order.
I will be updating this list as I see fit.
Dr. No
From Russia With Love
Goldfinger
Thunderball
You Only Live Twice
On Her Majesty's Secret Service
Live and Let Die
The Man with the Golden Gun
The Spy Who Loved Me
Moonraker
Casablanca
Yojimbo
A Fistful of Dollars
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Sabrina
The Breakfast Club
Alien
Some Like It Hot
It's a Wonderful Life
A Christmas Story
The Godfather
The Bridge on the River Kwai
Citizen Kane
White Christmas
Dial M for Murder (in 3D)
Planet of the Apes
The Third Man
When Harry Met Sally ...
Sunset Boulevard
Jaws
La Grande Illusion
Turner Classic Movies announced they are holding a film festival later this month in Hollywood with many films like 2001: A Space Odyssey and Casablanca being screened. While I don't plan on attending a screening, despite my total desire to see a classic or two on the big screen, I started thinking about all the older films I have seen that originally were released either before my time or when I was too young to remember and/or care. So I decided to put down on electronic paper the movies I have seen at special screenings that are important to me. The list is in no particular order.
I will be updating this list as I see fit.
Dr. No
From Russia With Love
Goldfinger
Thunderball
You Only Live Twice
On Her Majesty's Secret Service
Live and Let Die
The Man with the Golden Gun
The Spy Who Loved Me
Moonraker
Casablanca
Yojimbo
A Fistful of Dollars
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Sabrina
The Breakfast Club
Alien
Some Like It Hot
It's a Wonderful Life
A Christmas Story
The Godfather
The Bridge on the River Kwai
Citizen Kane
White Christmas
Dial M for Murder (in 3D)
Planet of the Apes
The Third Man
When Harry Met Sally ...
Sunset Boulevard
Jaws
La Grande Illusion
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
New Fridge Looks Great
It took $1,300 and a lot of disassembling and reassembling to get it in the spot it belongs, but I have to say that our new refrigerator looks great. I have always been in a family with two fridges, one for the kitchen and another for the garage to put soft drinks and other random things in order to save space in the main fridge. That tradition now continues as my father-in-law and I picked up the new LG french door, bottom freezer refrigerator today at Sears.
On a side note, I have to say it felt great laying down $1,296 in hundreds, twenties, a ten, a five and a one dollar bill when we bought the thing. The experience was like being Henry Hill in Goodfellas when he would just pull out a wad of money whenever the situation called for it.
On a side note, I have to say it felt great laying down $1,296 in hundreds, twenties, a ten, a five and a one dollar bill when we bought the thing. The experience was like being Henry Hill in Goodfellas when he would just pull out a wad of money whenever the situation called for it.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
A Celebration Of U2's Soundtrack Pride
After viewing The Million Dollar Hotel yesterday and listening to songs from my favorite band U2 included on the film's soundtrack, I started to wonder about all the movies U2 has written music for. I don't mean songs written by the band for albums and then lended out to a film for its soundtrack, but not heard before by the public until it was featured in a movie.
I was informed yesterday that U2 was very particular in the 80s and 90s about what movies the band would lend their music out to. Apparently before being the go-to band for commercial tuneage, U2 would have to preview a movie and decide if it was worthy of their music.
Hopefully this is the most accurate list possible, but you may disagree with a technicality or two on whether the songs listed were really written for the movie or if it is even a U2 song in the first place. After consulting my buddie (and U2 expert) James, here is a list of the songs written specifically for films, the movies and how well the movies did both financially and critically.
I was informed yesterday that U2 was very particular in the 80s and 90s about what movies the band would lend their music out to. Apparently before being the go-to band for commercial tuneage, U2 would have to preview a movie and decide if it was worthy of their music.
Hopefully this is the most accurate list possible, but you may disagree with a technicality or two on whether the songs listed were really written for the movie or if it is even a U2 song in the first place. After consulting my buddie (and U2 expert) James, here is a list of the songs written specifically for films, the movies and how well the movies did both financially and critically.
"Heroine" and instrumental works from the UK film Captive (1986)
Garnered an abysmal 4.1 IMDb rating and that is all the information I can find about how the movie was received. There is no information about how it did at the box office. The only professional review I can find is at the New York Times by Paul Brenner. He calls it a "sleek thriller," but no official rating is given.
"Stay (Faraway, So Close)" from Germany's In Weiter Ferne, so nah! (1993, Faraway, So Close! - US title)
The band's first collaboration with Wim Wenders resulted in a 6.9 rating on IMDb and sits at 60 percent on Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer. Despite earning only $810,000 at the US box office, the movie was appreciated more overseas, earning the Grand Prix du Jury and receiving a nomination for the Palme d'Or at the 1993 Cannes Film Festival.
"Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me, Kill Me" from Batman Forever (1995)
It is considered the beginning of the end for the Batman movie franchise in the 90s. Batman Forever, which changed directorial hands from darkly imaginative Tim Burton to over-the-top cheese Joel Schumacher, receives a 5.4 IMDb rating and 45 percent on the Tomatometer. The $100-million blockbuster fared well at the box office, earning $184 million in the US and another $152 million in international gross. Critically, the third Batman film was a mixed bag with some saying it was "great bubblegum for the eyes" and "lighter, brighter, funnier, faster-paced, and a whole lot more colorful than before" while others were not so optimistic, stating it was "suitable for boys five and under" and even unbearable.
"Goldeneye" from Goldeneye (1995)
Finally U2 is associated with a generally well-accepted movie (and I'm not just saying that because I'm a James Bond fan). The 17th release of the James Bond franchise saw a new face as 007. Although Bono and the Edge only wrote the music for the title track, leaving the singing to Tina Turner, they still get credit. Goldeneye received a 7.2 on IMDb and 80 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. From a financial point of view, the movie was the most profitable at the time of its release when you combined domestic and international grosses. While there were some negative reviews, critics were mostly excited to see that the British spy could survive after the Cold War came to an end.
"Mission: Impossible Theme" from Mission: Impossible (1996)
While Larry Mullen Jr. and Adam Clayton didn't write the music outright, they did update the theme song for the 1996 film starring Tom Cruise. Mission: Impossible is underrated in my opinion in that it does take its self seriously as a spy film, but it also gives the audience an explosive ending that probably doesn't belong in the real spy world. The movie sits at a 6.8 on IMDb and 56 percent on the Tomatometer. It raked in $457 million worldwide, which comes in second place in the franchise so far (with the sequel having the highest total and J.J. Abrams third entry in last). Most critics who didn't enjoy the film blasted it due to the plot not making much sense, and those who did praise it looked past the convoluted premise and told audiences to just enjoy the ride.
"The Ground Beneath Her Feet" and "Stateless" from The Million Dollar Hotel (2000)
The movie that started this research project didn't fare well with hardly anyone. It has a 5.5 on IMDb and was given a piddly 24 percent on Rotton Tomatoes Tomatometer. At the domestic box office the film didn't even reach $60,000 on an estimated $8 million budget and no information was given on the foreign box office receipts. Even the film's star and producer, Mel Gibson, ragged on the film, calling it "boring as a dog's ass." Like many mistakes in his life lately, he went back and apologized for his thoughtless act.
"The Hands That Built America" from Gangs of New York (2002)
Martin Scorsese's 19th century gangster epic is the highest rated movie on IMDb, with a 7.4 from more than 100,000 voters, that U2 has been linked to. While Goldeneye was higher rated at Rotten Tomatoes, Gangs of New York received a solid 74 percent on the Tomatometer. Financially, this film did not see the same fate as its Web site ratings. The movie made only $193 million ($77 of it in domestic gross) after spending a budget of $100 million. Overall praise was high, with some stating it fell short of the hype preceding the film. The film was nominated for 10 Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Writing, Best Actor and Best Song for U2's effort, but won none of them. U2 lost to Eminem's "Lose Yourself" from 8 Mile.
"The Hands That Built America" from Gangs of New York (2002)
Martin Scorsese's 19th century gangster epic is the highest rated movie on IMDb, with a 7.4 from more than 100,000 voters, that U2 has been linked to. While Goldeneye was higher rated at Rotten Tomatoes, Gangs of New York received a solid 74 percent on the Tomatometer. Financially, this film did not see the same fate as its Web site ratings. The movie made only $193 million ($77 of it in domestic gross) after spending a budget of $100 million. Overall praise was high, with some stating it fell short of the hype preceding the film. The film was nominated for 10 Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Writing, Best Actor and Best Song for U2's effort, but won none of them. U2 lost to Eminem's "Lose Yourself" from 8 Mile.
"Winter" from Brothers (2009)
The most recent soundtrack work for U2 is this entry for the Natalie Portman, Tobey Maguire, Jake Gyllenhaal drama-war film. Released three months ago, the movie has had a medium reception. After only 10,000 votes, it too sits at a 7.4 rating on IMDb, but falls much shorter at Rotten Tomatoes than Gangs of New York, receiving a 59 percent on the Tomatometer. The film has grossed $38 million worldwide, three-quarters of that being in domestic receipts. Not accounting for the three powerful leading performances, critics have mostly considered Brothers a traditional melodrama. U2's contribution received a Golden Globe nomination, but lost to "The Weary Kind" from Crazy Heart.
The most recent soundtrack work for U2 is this entry for the Natalie Portman, Tobey Maguire, Jake Gyllenhaal drama-war film. Released three months ago, the movie has had a medium reception. After only 10,000 votes, it too sits at a 7.4 rating on IMDb, but falls much shorter at Rotten Tomatoes than Gangs of New York, receiving a 59 percent on the Tomatometer. The film has grossed $38 million worldwide, three-quarters of that being in domestic receipts. Not accounting for the three powerful leading performances, critics have mostly considered Brothers a traditional melodrama. U2's contribution received a Golden Globe nomination, but lost to "The Weary Kind" from Crazy Heart.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Ranking The 2010 Best Picture Oscar Nominees
Following Sunday's broadcast of the Academy Awards it was revealed that Hollywood really loved The Hurt Locker and considered Avatar simply a visually stunning piece of work with a story that didn't hold up enough to make it the best overall (which is the same opinion I had of the movie). Although I only saw eight of the ten nominees and since I love making lists, I am going to rank the nominees from my favorite to the least liked.
I would like it known however that I liked all eight of the nominated films I viewed. They are all worth seeing at least once. The two movies I didn't get to see were Precious and A Serious Man.
So here goes.
8. The Blind Side - A touching story about a family taking in a homeless high school student and helping him become a premiere football player. The Baltimore Ravens eventually drafted the guy, but this covers his story while in high school.
7. Up in the Air - If you liked Thank You for Smoking and Juno, then you'll like this. It is from the same director.
6. District 9 - Combining documentary-like storytelling with normal narrative style, director Neill Blomkamp explains the crime of apartheid going on in South Africa by replacing blacks and whites with humans and an extraterrestial race.
5. An Education - A great story about a girl in 1960s England who learns a lot more about life through her mistakes outside the classroom than she ever did in her books and essays.
4. Avatar - Visually: the most amazing thing seen in a movie theater. Storytelling: eh. What makes this movie even better is that the 3D enhances the film. It is not a gimmick used to make more money like every other movie is doing with 3D.
3. Inglourious Basterds - It is funny I ranked this third because I just thought it was good the first time I saw it. But after seeing it a second time last weekend, I really liked it a lot more and consider it better than Reservoir Dogs, but not as good as Pulp Fiction.
2. The Hurt Locker - A tense thriller about an army bomb disposal unit over in the Middle East. One of the things I liked most about the movie is it takes no stance for or against the war. It is simply telling a story that happens to be set in a current war.
1. Up - I'm already a sucker for a Pixar movie, but this is simply one of their best. The opening 10 minutes is a movie in itself and would have won for best short film animated had it ended there.
I would like it known however that I liked all eight of the nominated films I viewed. They are all worth seeing at least once. The two movies I didn't get to see were Precious and A Serious Man.
So here goes.
8. The Blind Side - A touching story about a family taking in a homeless high school student and helping him become a premiere football player. The Baltimore Ravens eventually drafted the guy, but this covers his story while in high school.
7. Up in the Air - If you liked Thank You for Smoking and Juno, then you'll like this. It is from the same director.
6. District 9 - Combining documentary-like storytelling with normal narrative style, director Neill Blomkamp explains the crime of apartheid going on in South Africa by replacing blacks and whites with humans and an extraterrestial race.
5. An Education - A great story about a girl in 1960s England who learns a lot more about life through her mistakes outside the classroom than she ever did in her books and essays.
4. Avatar - Visually: the most amazing thing seen in a movie theater. Storytelling: eh. What makes this movie even better is that the 3D enhances the film. It is not a gimmick used to make more money like every other movie is doing with 3D.
3. Inglourious Basterds - It is funny I ranked this third because I just thought it was good the first time I saw it. But after seeing it a second time last weekend, I really liked it a lot more and consider it better than Reservoir Dogs, but not as good as Pulp Fiction.
2. The Hurt Locker - A tense thriller about an army bomb disposal unit over in the Middle East. One of the things I liked most about the movie is it takes no stance for or against the war. It is simply telling a story that happens to be set in a current war.
1. Up - I'm already a sucker for a Pixar movie, but this is simply one of their best. The opening 10 minutes is a movie in itself and would have won for best short film animated had it ended there.
Monday, March 08, 2010
Post-Award Update
I finished pretty well last night after correctly predicting 16 of the 24 Academy Award categories. I was pleased to see Kathryn Bigelow and The Hurt Locker win the awards it did, taking home six statues out of the nine nominations it received.
Since I viewed The Hurt Locker Saturday and I had seen all the previous winners prior to last night's award ceremony, that means I have still seen every Best Picture winner to receive an Oscar. That is a pretty cool accomplishment.
Since I viewed The Hurt Locker Saturday and I had seen all the previous winners prior to last night's award ceremony, that means I have still seen every Best Picture winner to receive an Oscar. That is a pretty cool accomplishment.
Friday, March 05, 2010
Academy Awards Are Nearly Here
This weekend is an exciting one as I get to spend Friday night with my daughter, then Saturday I am sitting through five of Oscar's Best Picture nominees (including An Education, The Blind Side, Up in the Air, The Hurt Locker, and Inglourious Basterds), and finally the award show will commence Sunday night. Good times.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)