Slumdog Millionaire

I had seen the previews of this movie earlier this year and had little interest in actually watching it. Every so often I will take a chance and watch imported movies or those that are film festival critically acclaimed works of art, but normally I find these movies to be a bit pretentious and quite pedestrian. Recently there has been a ground swell of buzz in regards to Slumdog Millionaire and I figured I would give it a go. I was taken a back by this film and I am glad I took a chance on it. The "rags to riches" love story set within the back drop of a crime drama in the Hindi version of Who Wants to be a Millionaire, was quite intriguing. The performances by all of the actors involved were simply outstanding. I typically can't say that I truly enjoy many movies in any given year, but this to me is definitely one of if not the best movie I have seen in 2008. A well crafted story told, as well as visually. Also, on a personal note the actress Frieda Pinto, who is from Mumbai, India, the setting of the story, is quite frankly one of the most stunning women I have ever seen in my life. Take a chance on two hours of phenomenal film work, and you will walk away I did, happy that you did.

The gift that keeps on giving.

During this Holiday Season, I have found it quite a tenuous task to find that perfect and unique gift for those I care about. However, I have the perfect gift for all occasions. It is the gift that keeps on giving. Venture over to GIANTmicrobes.com and check out the great selection of plush microbes. Anything from the Common Cold to Ebola, Brain Cells, Fleas, Lyme Disease, etc. you can find that perfect gift for that special someone. Not only are these plush toys fun gifts to give, but they also bring a bit of humorous learning to the table as well. I've had nothing but good feedback from the recipients of this particular gift that I have given. Enjoy your GIANTmicrobes, which recently have even gotten bigger.

Broken beyond repair?

I believe I am finally coming to a point where if I don't act now upon checking up on injuries and ailments, that I maybe beyond simple repair. The sharp uncomfortable pains in my shoulders and the reoccurring pain to my neck have been a natural state of my being for as long as I can remember, well at least since my High School Football days. Ankles, knees, groin, back, and thumb can all be added to a laundry list of continuous pain. Currently, aside from the occasional shooting neck pains, my most serious injury is my entire left are beginning at the shoulder. I first believed it was only due to the fact that I may have slept on it wrong, however I can't say that that is the case. All I know is it is affecting the feeling in my left hand. There is a tingling sensation in my finger tips and occasionally my hand seizes up and lose functionality in it. I suppose that would be a good sign that I should have seen a doctor long ago. Maybe it is a stubborn ego driven mentality, or just a severe anxiety to seeing doctors that has kept me from making an appointment. Whatever my excuse I think it is really starting to wear thin, even with me. If only I had the healing powers of Wolverine. Mental Note: Make doctor appointment before I am beyond repair.

Soundtrack of my life

I have an ever expanding catalog of music that can be expressions of the trials and tribulations of my 29 years of life. A soundtrack that is not only narrative reactions of the various events which have occurred, but also landmarks of where my paths split onto new tracks. Music is something that speaks eloquently the emotions that I have. There, undoubtedly, are songs that change the course of your life forever. Rising to the top of my list of songs, that are currently making an impact in my life right now is, "I'm Yours" by Jason Mraz. (Check out the VIDEO) I don't really know why this caught me the way it has or the true relevance it has in my life, but what it speaks to me, and what I take from it is something, for me is life changing. Beyond its pop-folk stylings and the light hearted lyrical content, I am greeted with statements that are relevant in where I am at in life, and where I want to be. The intent behind the song may be absolutely different and my view unintended, however, that is the beauty of music; subjectivity. A new life, a new world, and finally I am free to be happy. Please let me know of your stories and songs, or music that have made impacts on your life that you may have not expected. It's always strange when something strikes you that may not wouldn't normally listen to, yet impacts you in astounding fashion. Those are the most surreal realizations.

Televisions best

The entertainment world has lost a step in their attempts to really make me laugh. And yes I say that as though I am the lone purveyor of comedy. I have found one show of less than a handful that I will regularly set my VCR...or shall I say, my DVR to record. The Big Bang Theory on CBS Monday Nights at 8 P.M. Mountain Standard Time. The cast if full of irreverent, pretentious, naive, and perversely amorous characters that meld together in a most delightful way. The few chuckles I get from other sitcoms can easily be counted in one hand while with TBBT I could safely say that by the end of the night I am far beyond the two limited hands that I have in the laugh counter. As the writing stays innovative and true to the characters they have created, so does my interest. So take 24min minus the commercials and examine the geekdom of The Big Bang Theory, and fill me in with your views.

Red White and Blue Sheep

Today is election day and I am thoroughly excited. It means that all of this political non-sense is coming to a close, well at least all the major campaigning. I really could care less who any of the big celebrities are backing in the election and really hope that those who made statements, that if John McCain is elected they will leave the country, keep true to their word. I don't follow politics nor do I really fully understand all the nuances of what is said and what it really means, but I am not a blind sheep in a herd of millions. If I hear some one say, "This is the biggest election of our lifetime," again I will have to kick some ass. The cliches seem to be endless and truthfully meaningless, at least from the people saying them. The divisiveness of the two parties just makes me sick to my stomach. I don't see any candidate that truly understands anything other than their own political prow less, and wants anything other than power. I am not convinced that their agendas don't trump the need of the people or the nation. Vote for whoever you want to, but it should be said that voting should be done with a little bit of research. Don't just vote because some celebrity told you to, or vote for someone a prominent figure is backing. Vote or Die, or Rock the Vote are just lame attempts at brainwashing mindless drones into unconsciously backing their man. Anyhow, once again I will state I will be glad when this political season is over.

Gimme that Blood

I was recently watching various programs about "Real Life Vampires," and how they try to differentiate themselves from those that we are familiar with in the movies and in books. Many of them just blather on about how they are not human, yet comparatively try to justify themselves by arguing that humans have evolved from cavemen, so why can't they just be that next step in evolution. Well basically, because as you stated before you are NOT human. So then, to any vampires out there, what are you then? Are you an evolved human? Are you another species? Are you the undead? And to the cliches of what we would associate with vampires, why is it that you want to distance yourselves from it, but can only justify your existence through embracing those cliches. What is the point? You think of yourself as a vampire, ok fine, to each their own. Why then, would you come out to the world about it? Would that not prompt those curious enough to disprove your claims to quarantine you and preform experiments on you? Ok, maybe I have seen to many movies. The question still remains, what makes you...as one would say a Vampire? The fact that you relate to the lifestyle, or the fact that you, don't need, but only drink blood? You may certainly have various uncanny gifts, but that doesn't make you a vampire. If your only way of laying claim to being a "Vampire" is to rattle off traits that we are familiar with as told by movie makers and authors, then I would suggest that you rethink your claims and maybe be a bit more creative in your fabricated life style. Put down the Anne Rice books and pick up a pen, and get to work on writing a new story for yourself.

The Strangers?

Remarkably, unlike most Horror, Terror, or Torture Porn labeled films that have been released in the past ten years, The Strangers was actually a breath of fresh air. I certainly had my critical eye weighing heavy on the details of the film, but over all was surprisingly more satisfied with the outcome than I had originally anticipated. The slow tension build made for a more suspenseful pace. I liken it to the movie High Tension, which would fit into a similar style of film. The movie didn't really offer anything new in terms of terror. The storyline was familiar and carried on until the tension wore off. It became predictable, however the ending was a nice change and was a palatable end to the tale. The most outlandish part of the movie is the fact you have these "Strangers" creating an atmosphere of terror with the constant pounding of the door, windows, and other objects around, yet they are making way through the yard and house without a trace, like a soft summer wind. They have the silent creeping skills of a master ninja, as they terrorize their victims. I really don't get the silent movement of any creature, or psychopath who isn't a Shinobi.

Warning...Send in the Clowns!

I don't know whether it is some sort of government conspiracy or aliens have come down and systematically drained a large segment of the population of their humor, but it is quite uncanny. From profiles to interviews, the consensus is that a sense of humor is a very important human trait to have, whether it be in romantic or business relationships, or in friendships. However, I fail to find many people with a truly open sense of humor. It has all become so stagnant and predictable. All force fed by these PC ideals that have dulled our humorous senses. Never to laugh at something controversial or off color again. Where even sarcasm has been made into a negative rather than in good fun. Our last ditch effort if comedians fail us is to simply send in the clowns to smash our lobotomized brains with cream pies and spray our faces with humorless liquids out of their giant lapel flowers. We will all soon be androids. Lifeless and humorless.

A back in the day cafe

What a genius idea. So simple, and so obvious. I am sure I am not the only one kicking myself asking, "Why didn't I think of that?" Cereality is a cereal bar and cafe where you can virtually have any combination of your favorite morning meal, cereal. Hot or cold, with banana, almonds, or any of their added toppings, the combos are endless. I am a Peanut Butter Captain Crunch man myself, but also like Cinnamon Life Cereal and Honey Nut Cheerios. Morning, noon, and night you can be snacking on great treats, as well as on the go with their take out container and take home cereal box. I am hoping that they make one of their new homes here in Denver, instead of the three hour trip I would have to make into the mountains. If you have visited a Cereality, tell me what you think and if it lives up to the genius concept.

Oh Joy for Soy

Recently, I indulged myself with a new treat. Surprisingly, the SoyJoy bars were actually quite palatable. I've tested the Apple, Berry, and Peanut Chocolate Chip, but have yet to taste the Mango Coconut, Raisin Almond, or Strawberry. So far I'm quite pleased.

Hooked on snacks

I tend to go through phases with foods that I snack on. Currently I am in the Nabisco Triscuit phase. I have had the various flavors: Rosmary & Olive Oil, Garden Herb, Roasted Garlic, and Original. As we speak I am snacking on the Thin Crisps: Parmesan Garlic. I have also had the Quattro Formaggio. I would have to say that the Parm Garlic and the Roasted Garlic are quite delectable. I suppose helping my heart by snacking on these treats can't be all bad.

What Happened....????

The suspense continued to build, relentlessly, in true M. Night Shyamalan fashion, as the movie progressed. Unfortunately, to no avail. I was left with a tremendous sense of unfulfillment, like I just hit triple 7's on the five dollar slots and to my dismay there is no payout. I didn't quite get the reasoning for an R rating. There were maybe a few instances where the scenes were a bit graphic, but nothing that were relevant to the story line. I suppose much was left up to the viewer to determine their own uneasiness to the possibilities of such an event. The ideas were inventive, but never quite got up to full steam and simply fell short. If you want all the build up of something potentially devastating, inevitably ending with no pay off, just go out on a blind date with someone from the local church personals.

Giant smackdown

Reflecting back over the weekends events and I would have to say that I am quite pleased with the unexpected start to the football season the Super Bowl Champion New York Giants have had. Despite, what looks to be a softer schedule than most they are still collecting W's. Not only winning, but this past weekend, at home against the Seattle Seahawks, they simply smacked them down into submission without one of their key star players Plaxico Burress who was serving a suspension in regards to an incident relating to an infraction with the team. Look out Cleveland, the big NY blue so steamrolling your town next.

Eagle Eye yi yi

A conspiracists paranoia should create a reasonable amount of interest in indulging themselves with the technological apocalypse that we find ourselves on the verge of. We are always monitored in some way shape or form by those shadowy figures that claim to only do so to keep us safe. Safe from what? Ourselves? Or as we find out, inevitably the ones who wield all of the power. The most interesting as well as terrifying aspects of the movie revolve around the ease that an entity can invade our everyday lives, anywhere, through the means of our abundance in technological surroundings. You really don't want to believe it as did the characters in the movie, however, you find out quickly there isn't much escape. So with a promising premise, we unfortunately take a ridiculously common and predicable turn. With movies such as 2001: A Space Odyssey, Event Horizon, War Games, etc. we find that we become the victims of our self-indulgent creations. Overshadowed by the action sequences and the insertions of scare tactics in regards to our lack of control of our private lives, we still boil this movie down to a super-computer gone wild. Ok now that is a trademarked term, and I thank you not to steal it. I implore Hollywood to deliver on the promises they make vis a vis the movie trailers. The movie is for the most part palatable, but becomes a bit redundant toward the end. It may not influence you to turn your cell phone off, but it will make you think twice about crossing that giant super-computer who can destroy your life. Wait for Eagle Eye as a dollar rental.

Who's afraid of the big black bat?

There was an enormous amount of hype surrounding The Dark Knight, elevated by the bizarre and unfortunate happenstance of actor Heath Ledgers' accidental death. Much was said about the relationship he had with prescription drugs in connection to the rigorous emotional and mental toll taken by his portrayal of the infamous Joker. With that said I think the movie lived up to a certain amount of the hype. Maybe I am just jaded by the praise of the critics on Ledgers Academy Award worthy performance, but I don't believe I can genuinely offer the same sentiments. I, unfortunately was not gripped by the movie in a way that would satisfy my indulgences. Despite the long two and a half hours of run-time I would say that The Dark Knight delivered an entertainment value far exceeding most superhero franchises. Though, for me, the acting didn't blow my wig clean off my skull, The Dark Knight is worth taking the time to view.

Mental Note

Mental note: In order to become a proper superhero, one must use a ridiculously deep, gravely voice. It makes all the difference in the world.

Where do these memories come from?

Who's memories are these? I feel like Jason Bourne, as a shock wave of memories flood into my rain from nowhere. I see visions of 19th century England, a character called the Thwacker, and torturous little children. None of this seemed to make any sense until I realized that these were snippets of the book: The Shroud of the Thwacker by Chris Elliott. Anyhow, for some reason I had misplaced this memory of ever reading this book. What a shame. I thoroughly enjoyed the bizaar story line that unravels in this Sherlock Holmesesk tale. If you simply like off the wall, inventive stories that will question your own sanity, then you should definitely give this book a whirl. It's a pretty quick read and will mentally warp your once rational mind.

Most Important Vote of our Lifetime?

Over the past eight years during election time all I have heard was, "This is the most important vote of our lifetime." I mean come on really? I am no activist, nor am I politically involved in any significant capacity. All I know is where are those voices the majority of the time when the major elections are not in the forefront of the media? Rock the Vote, Vote or Die, I suppose are all good ways of promoting yourself in a way that makes it seem like you are involved. And when I say involved I mean according to your own agenda and ideology. Spare me the desperate attempts at convincing me that this election is going to be the benchmark of ultimate change. If I remember right, there are still only two major parties, both seem to be on very opposite ends of the spectrum, and they are career politicians. The ideology may shift, but no significant change will envelope the country. It's about their agenda, and power. In the face of economic collapse, these elected officials still, and I mean with no hesitation. continue to add incentives and pork for their own causes to a bill that is poorly drafted to help right our economic ship. What's good for the country? Hell no. What's good for my constituents and my party. And a vote is supposed to clean this government mess? Now I still will vote, as it is my duty as an American, (who by the way is registered as unaffiliated) but do not, and I mean DO NOT feed me this false utopian ideal that my vote will make a difference. Most people follow only the corrupt media outlets, as well as Hollywood entertainment outlets to gain access to snippets of tainted news stories. Even idiots have the right to vote. Real change is more than a promise and an overused political word.

Who to vote for

Tonight we have the VP debate. I can't say that I am going to watch it in any capacity, however I might tune in briefly for the tail end of the debate. I wouldn't consider Palin and Biden to be master debaters, so it might serve for interesting viewing. I suppose amateur debating is just as if not more so entertaining as master debating.

Review: Forgetting Sarah Marshall

For those of you not familiar with the film I will provide a brief synopsis. Famed actress Sarah Marshall and long time boyfriend, Peter, who also is a working composer, coincidentally on her T.V. Crime Drama show, appear on the surface to have the makings of a wonderful relationship. Tragically it all is but a facade. The all to familiar, "We need to talk." Break-ups are always difficult, especially when your famous ex-girlfriend is everywhere you turn, and also in the arms of another man. Who by the way is a famous rock-star. So Peter goes on holiday to Hawaii to wipe clean the scarred memory that is his once happy relationship. I'm with it so far, minus the pathetic whining. Relatable right? You all ready know what happens next. Who could it be that just happens to be staying at the same hotel, the infamous Sarah Marshall. There are a number of characters that materialize throughout the remainder of the movie, but they are only good for a few pot shot one liners here and there. The only character of note for me was Rachel, Peters' new love interest. (On a side note, Mila Kunis is absolutely stunning in this movie. Ok I think I have wiped the drool from my chin. That was unprofessional, I mean to add that right in the middle of a movie review? Ok stop typing now...) Back to the story. The usual hi-jinx take place over the course of their stay in Hawaii. An over abundance of uncomfortable meetings, which over the two or so hours of film, just became a bit repetitive. The humor seems to taper off and the moments become all too predicable as well as forgettable. In one last ditch effort to reclaim what prosperous relationship they once had, Sarah, of all people made her play on Peter. Of course this was only after relationship altering decision began to back fire on her. I really haven't given the ending away with this dramatic build up because well all know what happens. I will repeat. Boy loses girl. Boy meets new girl. Boy screws up. Boy is eventually forgiven. Happily ever after. If it only worked that way outside of Hollywood. Without an obsessive tone I will reiterate that the most striking character was Rachel. Full of spit and vinegar. I guess that is where I was drawn. The movie fell apart in the middle and just seemed to drag on like Ricky Steamboat. This could have easily been wrapped up in a nice tight little bow in about an hour and a half, much like this review. If you have time on the weekend, and are looking for a few laughs, check it out. It will be fun for most. "I'd rent that for a dollar."

Movie Addiction

As much as I try I am unable to kick my addiction. I have a compulsion for Redbox dollar movie rentals. I cannot simply walk past one of those machines without at least checking to see what new releases they have available. Fortunately, if it is not new, I will typically not choose to pursue any further renting options. I was only able to last but one day this week. Currently in my possession is the movie: Forgetting Sarah Marshall. Tonight I will indulge my fix and relay my review.

Waiting for my life to begin.

Tick-Tock. A dismal reminder of the death clock that is our lives. Reflecting on my past twenty-nine years of existence, I have found that much of my time was spent in waiting. Be it in lines, on the phone, or simply in rooms constructed for such an ordeal. These moments of inaction have left lasting impressions on the fulfillment of my experiences. Hesitation, procrastination, and complacency are all the ingredients to this poisonous brew. Sufficed to say, I have downed my share. Waiting for some miraculous event to snap me from the mundane existence I have allowed myself to become accustomed to. Languorously going through the motions of life. I struggle to even recognize the person who is existing in my place as I watch intently from the sidelines.

So much time has been wasted. So many hopes, dreams, and experiences have been put on hold. I know I cannot turn back time and change the outcomes of my ill-fated moments. Over the last ten or so years, I have continually lost pieces of myself. Lost my way. Lost my fire. Now with new opportunities, I begin a new life. Tentative, but far more optimistic of what the future holds. I am in my life, living it. No more waiting rooms.