damn the muse

Starz has been busy these days. It's been ramping up its original programming slate to compete with HBO and Showtime, and so far, the shows are on par with what's expected from most cable channels. I'm not a fan of Party Down but the critics love it. Spartacus, however, needs to start up soon. For all its excess, the acting and story really came together in the end. And really, can you expect as much from Sam Raimi? Now Starz is developing Camelot, a show based on the Arthurian legend, allegedly to compete with HBO's forthcoming Game of Thrones. They've hired well known actors, and hell, it's King Arthur! Except I've been a fan of the "Song of Ice and Fire" series for years, so I'll be watching HBO. Plus, Thrones has cast Sean Bean and Peter Dinklage. That's enough for me. Though you do have to give Starz some credit.

Torchwood is coming to Starz. Even better? It sounds like it will be a continuation of "Children of Earth" versus a remake that was proposed to FOX. So, an unedited, international show by Russell Davies will be on a US cable channel sometime next year. I can't wait.

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Finding a job in this economy is practically impossible, but for some people, the opportunity doesn't even exist because of perceived misconceptions.

Several months ago, a $4 million national disability awareness campaign hit the airwaves with high hopes for increasing employment among people with disabilities.

Their purpose was to create a series of ads meant to show that hiring people with disabilities could be an asset rather than a detriment. So far their efforts are paying off, and the ads are hysterical.

The source.

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Glee recently aired an episode called "Wheels." The episode focused on one of the supporting characters who happens to be a paraplegic, though in real life the actor is not. He can walk. Of course, many in the disability community are upset and disappointed that a real disabled actor wasn't cast in this role, and they saw this episode as more of an insult.

So, who cares? I don't. I found the episode to be very sweet, and I enjoyed the fact that tv shows are no longer shying away from characters with disabilities.

A year ago, two years ago, longer than that, when you'd see a character with a disability on the screen, it was mostly meant to tug at your emotions. Bring out the kleenex because here's the pity party. Mary is in a wheelchair, she can't do shit. Really. This cop will save the day. And everything is perfect again. On tv.

On Private Practice the disabled doctor, Fife, is a jerk. I totally hate and love him. I want him to hook up with Naomi, and I want the writers to go there. I like that he's not treated differently. He's a freaking doctor! And he's disabled in real life.

And then there's Glee. I remember high school, and inaccessible areas, and having to miss out on certain things. I thought, if people could just understand what it was like to be me, then maybe kids would be nicer. Glee isn't out to preach, nor is it perfect. But if it makes even just one person think, then I'm not going to criticize it for having an abled actor in a role that might have gone to a disabled actor. I won't when it's bringing us to the forefront.

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Back then it was called Forever Knight, and it was practically a family affair. See, in my unit we love sci-fi and fantasy shows, but some of us really love vampire shows. FK, though at first slightly cheesy, ended up being really good. Then it got canceled. Oh, and that finale! Bloody hell. Can they pile on the angst or what?

Not really. I discovered the Whedon shortly there after. Now, he was downright painful.

Enter the new show that reminds of FK. It has vampires. I swear this is a curse. The vampire lead is hot. I can't tear myself away. It's called Blood Ties. Oh, cliche title to boot!

I realize that the title is taken from a novel, and the show isn't a copy of Forever Knight, but it invites comparison. Sexy vampire male crimefighter meets sexy female private eye who has an ex male cop partner. I smell triangle. Oh, and they fight demons and creepy crawlies. Maybe there is a Whedon connection?

The sad fact is I am so there for episode 1. But should it turn out to be bad, I will feel used and abused and manhandled. A woman wants decent supernatural romance with umph, not a crappy plot device.

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According to Pop Candy, the first season of Beauty and the Beast is now available to own, or rent if you're a Netflix hag like me. I don't know, but every time that show is mentioned, I just sigh. The music was gorgeous, and oh, it was that good! It was all about Vincent and Katherine. And there's the sigh again.

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Dude! DUDE! Just when I think the show can no longer surprise me, it does a double whammy and pulls that one.

Then there is Grey's Anatomy. ::sniff:: Every show makes me cry. Tonight was no exception.

Finally, it looks like another whedonverse actor was cast in Tim Minnear's new show, Drive. The lovely Amy Acker will be returning to tv, and she'll be playing Nathan Fillion's wife. Wait, Capt. Mal married to Fred/Illyria? Freaky, but I can see it.

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HBO just bought the television rights to George R.R. Martin's series "A Song of Ice and Fire." They intend to produce a season around each novel, and I'm sitting here thinking how in the hell are they going to find the actors to play these roles? Many of the characters are kids or teenagers, and there's sex! There's tons of it. They had better cast a damn good Jaime Lannister.

Oh my goodness. A Game of Thrones is coming to HBO! I think I can almost forgive them for canceling Deadwood.

Taken from Aintitcool.

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Soap actor, Drake Hogestyn, was attacked by a fan who thought he was possessed by the devil. Unfortunately for the fan, he was a few years too late. Besides, wasn't Marlena the one who was possessed, and John was the one who rescued her with a little help from Isabella, his deceased wife?

I so don't miss Days of our Lives.

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Cute movie. For a while though I almost started to tape it because there were more commercials and not enough movie. I timed it! It was at times five minutes of commercials and then maybe 5 minutes of yummy Stamos. I almost killed the tv out of frustration.

I'm kinda glad I taped part 1 of The Lost Room

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As of right now I do not know who is responsible for the rapes at Hearst college. I came home and caught up on last week's episode and had many laughs. There was much LoVe angst. I swear if Logan is murdered tonight it will be the end of the world! (not) I have my theories. If it's the sheriff, I'd be sad. His scene on the phone with the "reporter" had me cracking up. I would love to know more about him. Piz is cute, but that's it. I'm not buying the Piz. Weevil, Wallace, and Mac are untouchable. They're also MIA.

Hmm, now that House is over, I really should hit rewind, zoom through Gilmore, and settle down with Veronica Mars. Am I going to cry?

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This morning I was faced with a dilemma. Do I watch the Notre Dame v. Army game, or do I watch the Michigan v. Ohio State game? Home game versus alma mater's mortal enemies? Then again I was born in Michigan. Who am I kidding, I have to support Michigan.

As of right now Michigan just scored a touchdown, but they're still losing. In the meantime, it was a blowout at South Bend. Finally. Except, it was Army. 41-9 is nice.

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So much has happened in the last week, and I can't possibly make up for it. Just briefly. Where in the hell did the Irish pull that out from, and can they please start a game with a little bit of domination. I never expected a 40-37 upset over Michigan State, but I'm not complaining. At least my boys won. Now if only the Irish fans in the stadium could have planted an ND flag at their 50 yard line...

Now for my favorite part of the year: it's pilot season, and I can honestly say that I hated one, and I'm addicted to another one.

Six Degrees. I taped it, and as I sat there watching it all I could think about was, "Is it over yet?" It has some pretty good actors, and the storylines have potential, but I just don't care. After an amazing Grey's Anatomy (Mer, choose McVet!) this show just falls flat, which isn't really sad because even though JJ Abrahms supervises, it so doesn't have his touch. It can die.

Brothers and Sisters. This I can see as Everwood for adults. The pilot seemed rickety. It was a bit all over the place. Mother and daughter have conflict, they pretend to be nice, then they have uber fight with a teeny tiny bit of depth, the dad dies. Oh, and there are a bunch of siblings with their own issues, and half of the clan is made up of Republicans! I like the little mysteries. It's going to take a while for me to stop picturing Ron Rifkin as Sloane. The show gets my three episode try.

Jericho. End of the world. Skeet Ulrich. Bad guy from Deadwood. It's kinda dark and the pilot was way better than the critics described. It gets three episodes.

Studio 60. Two words: Matthew Perry. Every scene he was in had me laughing, and the best part was that he was nothing like Chandler. I've never watched an Aaron Sorkin show, but I loved the rant at the beginning, and I like the relationship between the writer and director. Every character is flawed, and that always makes for interesting storytelling.

Heroes. Addicted. It's this year's Lost. I'm irked it ended the way it did, and then again the previews spoiled what happens next, so now I know he lives! One episode packed in so many little mysteries, I forsee a cult. I liked how some characters embrace their powers, and some are terrified by them. It's also interesting to see how some of them are beginning to find each other without knowing it. How are they connected? Is it really genetics, or where they all part of some experiment? The madness begins...

Ugly Betty hasn't aired yet, but I'm definately looking foward to that show.

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... apart from the devastating loss Mexico lost at the hands of Argentina? Well, I keep hearing my name on tv.

Let me clarify. It's not exactly my name. Mine rhymes with 'mean,' which is why there's an accent mark and no dreaded 'e' at the end. I am of course used to hearing it said the other way because apparently people don't like to listen. They even like to add a 'j.' I'm used to it.

I'm named after a gorgeous smelling flower. It also runs in the family.

Now it's birth control. There are commercials on tv! All over the place. It's so bad. Why can't they call it Sara, or Nancy? I'm baby-proof!

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There's a Ghost Hunters marathon on right now, and I just can't peel myself away even though it is freaking me out!

Oh yeah, I'm alive. Yay for a May entry. Stay tuned for more.

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Listening to: Los Fabulosos Cadilacs - El Matador

I finally realized what it was about that new show Miracle Workers that made me grimace everytime a preview came on the set. It wasn't the music, though to be honest that much mushiness made me wonder if ABC was trying to make even the most bitter of people sniffle with such contrived melodies. No, it was the actual stories and the way they seemed to be portrayed.

I haven't seen the show. I'm probably being extremely unfair. The people chosen to be fixed probably deserved it. My question is did the show take the time to explore their hardships in society? Or were they just portrayed as freaks? Did they highlight what these people could do? It's not a death sentence, but shows like these love to portray a disABILITY as such a life-ending situation that society feeds into this ignorance. Why not report on how limited we are by business who still refuse to follow ADA guidelines? Or a government who keeps cutting back on benefits sorely needed?

It's so easy to say, "Voila! You're fixed," on television. I don't need to be fixed. I want an equal chance to enter a building as an able-bodied person without the pity stares or the misconceptions that I'm missing out.

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The best episode of the second season so far repeats tonight on the Sci-Fi Channel. I'm going to miss it, which is why I'm thankful I still have it on tape. Then again I'm a dork that way (that's a good thing). I do want to review the episode. It just merits a second viewing because most of the first ten minutes were spent recovering from the brilliant twist at the beginning.

It's official. I haven't worshipped a show like this since Firefly.

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Stand back Anne Rice! Looks like fan fiction is headed for legitimacy. The producers of "The L Word" have given their stamp of approval, and now they want to celebrate by holding a contest. Write tantalizing fan fiction involving those lovely lesbians? Well if the story is brilliant, then it may just be the next all new episode of the fouth season.

Now I wonder if they'd be amused by my tale of my lovesick vampire and the psychotic author who keeps stalking him and then finds religion. It's very good. Honest.

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January is almost gone, and yet it still doesn't want to end. I'm watching the news today, and I can already tell you that it's going to be one of those years that won't be forgotten. As for me, well I'm still trying to get over the after effects of the flu.

I caught the flu, and it baffles me. I never get sick, so something like a fever just traumatizes me. A 101 temp is freaky. Call mom on the phone and say I'm dying. Now I'm just coughing, and coughing. At least it's not bird-like in nature, right. I need to think positively, and maybe it will go away.

I will say this-- I did reach one goal this month. I am the proud owner of a 30 gig video iPod. I'm broke. She's a beauty though all black and sleak and purdy. I downloaded my first podcast this morning and listened to it while rewatching "Epiphanies." Ron Moore says some very interesting things about Battlestar Galactica. I also downloaded a free episode of Monk, and that tiny screen is amazing.

I'm so broke, but I have a 5G iPod. So worth it. I will be teaching Spanish forever. At least until I find a job that requires my J.D.

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Is it next Friday yet? No, really? I swear these cliffhangers are killing me, and even though I'm aware of some spoilers because 4 months is just too long, I am still not all knowing. I love Battlestar Galactica.

For instance I think what I enjoyed the most about this episode was the final act. Adama finds out something horrible about Cain and decides that she has to be dealt with after much prodding from Roslin. At the same time Cain decides she has to get rid of Adama, but this is an easy choice for her. He stands in her way. Both commanders make their orders at the same time to their trusted officers, and it's obvious that it won't be an easy assignment. Starbuck is completely loyal to Adama but Cain has started to rub off on her. Besides, she's unpredictable. And what about Cain's XO? He's charged with getting rid of Adama's whole command, yet he's seen what Cain can do. The time is ripe for double crossings. All of this in just 5 minutes of dialogue. It's brilliant.

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I can honestly say I'm busy, and September just seems to never end. It can continue to truck on just for me, thank you very much. Let's see, I'm teaching Spanish, which allows me to correct the balance a bit. If I hear another parkiar from a San Antonian I think I may have to hire my own lawyer after I run that person over with my scooter. ::cringe::

Anyway...

I still haven't finished watching all the tv shows I taped (downloaded) from this week. Some of the new shows are intriguing, and some are just there. I love "Threshold" and found myself having to tape it and watch it Saturday during the day. That show is just too freaky! Of course I still haven't seen episode #2, but I'm working on it. I was also intrigued with "Supernatural" because of the dynamic between the brothers, but seriously, did they have to name one of them Dean? Confusing! Especially since the younger one was named Dean previously on "Gilmore Girls." It's taking time to get used to, but I'm enjoying the show. I can't say the same about "Invasion." I might give it the 3 episode try, or I might not. Same with "How I Met Your Mother," which felt forced to me. Don't get me wrong, I love Aly! And she was wonderful in the pilot. I guess that comedies with laugh tracks aren't my thing, and I say laugh tracks because on the other side is "Kitchen Confidential" and I loved it! I'm also watching "Bones" and "House" and "Rome" and well with "Veronica Mars" starting this week along with "Boston Legal" and I want to check out "Close to Home," well, methinks the 3 episode rule is out the door!!

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Visiting some of the Battlestar Galactica forums can be an experience all to its own. I just have one thing to say: Starbuck and Lee 4Eva!!!!!

All girlie fantasies aside, last night's episode, which I saw today, made me jump out of my seat. And the music!!!! Stephen, if you are reading this you would be drooling over it like I was. They used a composition by Philip Glass, and now I have to go digging through my cd collection, and hope I can find The Truman Show. It's not confirmed, but rumor has it that it's from there.

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I'm a sci-fi geek. That's not news, really. So while taking a much needed break, I was positively heartbroken to find out that James Doohan had passed. Earth just won't be the same without him, but thank you for the lovely memories.

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I did 50 questions today, and I feel wiped out.

Detroit is leading by 5. Damnit! Stupid Spurs, get zee asses in gear. Come on Manu!!

And I actually got comment spam after like two months or more. Wow.

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I am completely against downloading movies. You hate spending 10 bucks for mindless drivel? Don't see it. Better yet, rent it. Netflix offers a great deal. For the good movies, it's worth every dollar. I don't support the MPAA's fear campaign because I think they're doing it for all the wrong reasons. They fear technology, and come on, they're greedy little bastards. We live in a capitalistic society. What else would you expect?

Now they need to go down. They're starting to sue torrent trackers listing television shows. Miss the season finale of CSI? Oops, that tracker is gone thanks to the MPAA, and you have to wait till you can catch it on repeat, or till you have the $50 to buy the season on DVD.

The Court of Appeals just ruled that the FCC overstepped its bounds when it tried to impose a digital broadcast flag on all electronic devices starting in July. This would have prevented you, or me from recording shows from our tv sets. Digital recordings to be more exact. We can make copies with a VCR, but now that everything is digital, ohh watch out! Innovations in technology is public enemy #1 to the RIAA/MPAA.

Now that the Court has overruled the FCC, it was only a matter of time before the entertainment industry would do something. Unfortunately, they're only going to be alienating their fans. Going after the tracker sites is a stupid idea. This is the future, but since when do the MPAA think.

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Contradiction, or saving face? The FCC has ruled that ABC did not violate indecency rules when it broadcast Saving Private Ryan. So graphic violence and language is ok when it comes to war, but everything else is fair game. Gotcha.

Actually, I hope they rebroadcast Schindler's List. The Holocaust was a very important part of our history, and that movie is another perfect example of the atrocities of war and the things people will do to survive.

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Actress who breastfed an Apple - worst joke ever!

Foreign Film: It goes to... The Sea Inside El Mar Adentro. Now I really need to see it.

The man, Sam Jackson, is presenting Original Screenplay. Sunshine should win and finally the Aviator does not win something. Eternal Sunshine for the Spotless Mind wins, and I wish Jim Carrey had been nominated. I swear he's been snubbed too many times.

Best Actor: Cheadle, he was so good in this, and the movie was powerful. Depp, I love him. I'm glad he's being recognized. DiCaprio, he's just good, but I still see "I'm the King of the World!" Eastwood, haven't seen it but I here he's good. Foxx, he's the favorite, and it could be an upset.

Jamie Foxx wins. Yayness. Can I just say I've loved him since "In Living Color" Aww, he thanked his daughter. And damn, that man loved his grandmother. Ohh, I'm going to cry. That was so sweet.

Julia Roberts had twins? She looks nice. She's presenting Best Director, and Aviator lost to Million Dollar Baby. How upsetting. Scorcesse deserved the Oscar.

Best Picture: My pick is Aviator. Million Dollar Baby wins. ::pout:: The only pleasure I get from this is how upset all the disability activists are going to be. They obviously don't get movies.

Posted by yasmín at 10:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I haven't heard any of them except for Lemony Snicket, which I love, and it didn't win.

Back to Beyonce. She has an amazing voice. That has been established, but the duet is beyond disturbing. Why oh why must she sing like that. There's no meshing, just warbling.

Best Song: Motorcycle Diaries. And the original singer sings the song as his acceptance speech. Maybe next time the Academy will allow the original singers to perform their songs. It won't be such a train wreck.

Best Actress: Hilary Swank wins. Annette Benning deserved an Oscar, and they're cutting her off. Funny.

Posted by yasmín at 9:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Hands down, Beyonce has a gorgeous voice and she made "Learn to be Lonely" sound beautiful. But what I really want to know is was that Gerard Butler or some no name dressed as Phantom. I swear the blood started to warm.

Cinematography is next. House of Flying Daggers deserves it, but Aviator just won. This doesn't mean it will win Best Picture.

Oh, that's Terminator music, and I'm such a geek for knowing it.

Sound Mixing is next. Spiderman 2 is nominated, but so is Aviator. Salma didn't say what movie won, but thankfully a little banner showed up and Ray was the movie. That's rather fitting. Hmm...I wonder who speaks better English, Salma or Cruz. Incredibles wins.

Banderas is going to sing now instead of the original singer. It's the first song nominated in Spanish for an Oscar. Now see, Banderas looks so much better with the hair down rather than in some ponytail that is not flattering, especially when he's standing next to that she-he pretending to be his wife.

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Is Rock trying to make a statement that African Americans don't watch good movies, just bad ones?

I love the bit with Edna, and Brad Bird does her voice. All the costumes are excellant in this category. Aviator is going to win...oh my god Brad Pitt... and yes I was right. Aviator wins and deserves it. So much about that movie just clicked.

Alright, Rock is just not funny. It's excruciating.

Best Supporting Actress. Cate Blanchett deserves to win. She was amazing as Hepburn. I loved Linney in Kinsey. Madsen's performance was subtle, and wow she's a favorite. Sophie's perormance was heartbreaking in Hotel Rwanda, and Natalie Portman was great in Closer. I've seen all these films!

Cate wins.

Nice little Carson tribute.

Now Leo is presenting Best Documentary. Born into Brothels wins. I was so sure Super Size Me would win just because of the controversy, but apparently not.

Dunst's hair looks amazing, and now she's presenting editing with Bloom. Aviator wins again. It's going to be a sweep.

Counting Crows just sang their nominated song and the lead singer sounded flat. It was rather bad. Maybe nerves got to him? It wouldn't be the first time. I remember when Madonna bombed "You Must Love Me."

Adapted Screenplay: Before Sunset - I loved, loved it. Sideways should win. OH YEAH Sideways wins!!!!!! Finally, it wins something.

By the way, the whole Catherine Zeta Jones bit, amusing but I bet it could have been better if Sandler had adlibbed. Rock is depressing me.

Now Jake and Zi are presenting visual effects. It's between Potter and Spiderman 2. Spiderman 2 should get it because it was amazing, and it does! I'm sad it wasn't recognized for more awards, but at least it received something this year. Bring on the well written, acted, directed Marvel movies.

The president of the Academy introduces Al Pacino. Are we already at honorary Oscars? This is going by fast.

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Why couldn't he have hosted the Oscars!!!

Incredibles should win for best animated film. Yay, and so it does. I hung up on my mother to listen to Williams and this category. It also goes to show that Pixar is a powerhouse for its animation and its storytelling. What will Disney do without it.

Cate Blanchett is presenting makeup from the audience. Pretty dress. Lemony Snicket wins.

Now it's the first original song. I guess using a major recording artist to sing the songs is the network's way to draw more viewers. I think it's sad. I'd rather hear the original performers.

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The Bush/Gap analogy was hysterical. I'm surprised how lowkey he is yet odly funny. I've seen better, but he's no David Letterman.

They're presenting art direction now, and they have all the nominees on the stage. I like Lemony Snicket, and I'm wondering, isn't humiliating to have all the nominees on stage?

Aviator wins. Does the sweep begin?

Supporting Actor is next. Clive Owen. Come on. Come on. Alan Alda was good, and Thomas was such a bastard in Sideways. I have to see Collateral. I just got it on Netflix. Hmm...Morgan, this is a tough one. Come on Clive!!!

Ugh!! Morgan deserved the Oscar though I haven't seen the movie, and oh, he gets a standing ovation. Next year, Clive.

Posted by yasmín at 7:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Beyonce: Amazing! Melissa is obsessed with cleavage.

Not so crazy about Hilary Swank's dress. It's a cross between grandma and classy.

Dear God, Antonio Banderas looks like he's been bitch smacked too many times by Melanie's breast implants. That hair! Ugh.

Posted by yasmín at 7:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I'll be liveblogging the Oscars for most of the evening tonight barring any natural disasters. I have my favorites, and as is customary, I haven't seen all the nominated films. Though it does put me at a disadvantage next to my little brother, I've predicted the winner more times than him. Titanic, anyone? ::smiles sweetly::

This is of course Clive Owens' night, and my fingers are crossed for The Incredibles. And of course it wouldn't be the Oscars without the fashion.

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The Sci-fi channel has placed the first episode of the new version of Battlestar Galactica online, uncut, commercial free, with deleted scenes. Not only is this a gripping, excellant episode, it's also very brave of Sci-fi to do this. Many people with fast net connections use the internet to find episodes they might have missed, or introduce themselves to new ones. Sci-fi gets it. Battlestar Galactica is must see tv. I just hope they change the theme song for season 2 because this one is so drab. The UK version was so much better!

Via Slashdot

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I can dream, can't I? And if he should happen to streak the Oscar crowd as he accepts his golden statute for that brilliant performace in Closer, we won't see it because ABC will be implementing a 7 second delay on the live telecast. Anything the network deems inappropriate will be censored, and yet the host is Chris Rock. Want to bet he takes advantage of this?

Posted by yasmín at 7:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

with a new show when:

You can't stop reading people's reactions to the season finale a week after it's aired.

You start an internal clock of sorts, counting down the days for a potential season 2.

You say frak instead of the more appropriate fuck or frell.

You wish you were Starbuck (drag if more appropriate).

You threaten the Sci-fi network by standing outside their offices and perform a horrible rendition of the new Battlestar Galactica theme song (UK version) if they refuse to greenlight a second season.

Posted by yasmín at 9:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBacks (0)

Christians are at it again. Wait. Stop. Not all Christians. Some of them are concerned about a new music video that is being released, featuring Spongebob Squarepants among others, because its purpose is to teach about tolerance. Let's teach children not to treat others differently, especially those of different shapes, colors, tastes, etc, etc. I forget that Christians want us to hang gays, then burn them, and pray they go to hell.

And then we wonder why we all just can't get along.

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I missed the majority of the Globes. Not because I was watching ABC, but because I was with the men. See, they love to go bowling, and I enjoying looking at the small computer screen as the points don't add up to 100, because the opportunity is rare. Though S. had this awesome streak the other day where he almost made it to 200. Almost.

Anyway, three games later, it's after 7, and we make it back home. I missed Natalie Portman's atrocious dress and Clive Owen's acceptance speech! At least Closer walked away with two Globes for the evening. Also, mark my words, brunnette's are the new 'in.' We're gorgeous, and we're smart. Didn't Charlize look fabulous?

The bad thing about the evening? ABC decided to air a new episode of my shows. I didn't catch DH, but I did watch Boston Legal. I think the highlight of the episode was the appearance of Betty White. I can see how people who didn't watch The Practice last season might not have caught on to the significance of her appearance, but those of us who did, what a show stopper. I could not stop laughing! What an evil woman. Now the question is, will she be around next week?

Posted by yasmín at 8:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBacks (0)

The Spanish voice actors who dub "The Simpsons" are in a labor disbute with a Mexican contracting company. If a solution can't be found, they stand to lose their jobs.

It would be strange if the existing Spanish voice actors were replaced by new ones after 15 years. You get used to the voices. It's not exactly the same voice. An English Homer isn't a Spanish Homer, but when you compare the two, it's almost uncanny.

Posted by yasmín at 9:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBacks (0)

Mother dearest calls me facilita, but I want a Sawyer!

Posted by yasmín at 8:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Answer the question. Would you bring them back home or not? Those poor reservists and guards have been there a while.

Yes, someone of the soldiers are happy to defend their country. Some don't. Bush screwed up by claiming to the world that Iraq had weapons of mass destruction, and therefore had a legitimate claim to attack even though the UN was telling him he was WRONG.

If the US wants the respect from the world then it must listen to the world not ignore it like some sullen child. Listening isn't the same as obeying either. Other countries have some wisdom to them, and when they say there are no WMD, well gee, I wonder what they mean by that. Sure, Iraq is better off without their Big Bad, but it seems to me like there's something worse in it's place. Maybe not so much for its people, but what about us?

See, and this is why I didn't watch the last two debates.

Posted by yasmín at 9:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (1)

Does Bush normally stumble over his words like that?

I feel like I'm watching a skit on SNL. Those faces he's making. Half the time I want to laugh, and half the time I want to cringe. At least he's not frothing at the mouth this time.

It's all promises, promises. They're both full of hot air.

Immigration: Keep them out. If they're not legal then they don't have a right to be here and take our jobs. We have no jobs. Why give them away?

Posted by yasmín at 8:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Lost just owned me. I read a mini review that stated I would catch the twist if I watched closely. It still flew past me and hit me in the gut. ::sniff::

Ok, I admit it. I'm a Locke fan now. Who's with me?

Posted by yasmín at 8:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Guess what? There's a Fear Factor for Hispanics. It has the crazy antics, humiliation, and can be watched and heard in that language I like to call Spanglish (the one where people are too ashamed to speak Spanish so they'll start mixing in English and claim it's Spanish).

LOS ANGELES, California (Reuters) -- Some TV shows offer an extreme makeover, others a bid for pop stardom. But the hottest reality show in the U.S. Hispanic market is offering the ultimate prize -- a potential green card to immigrants desperate to pursue the American dream.

"Gana la Verde" ("Win the Green") has attracted big audiences and hundreds of contestants willing to eat burritos crammed with live worms, jump off high-speed trucks or wash skyscraper windows in exchange for a year's legal help in speeding up their visa or green card cases.

Ah yes, what better way to show Americans that Hispanics aren't poor, desperate people looking to steal our jobs and our land than by displaying it on a reality game show where Hispanics are displayed as being crazy, desperate people looking to acquire green cards in order to take our jobs and our land.

Posted by yasmín at 9:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

In a little over an hour I will be saying goodbye to yet another hour of excellent television. It's being replaced by reality tv. And then we wonder why pictures of prisoners in humiliating positions isn't so unbearable. We do it to ourselves in a reality show coming to a tv set soon.

Posted by yasmín at 6:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Oh crap. I just found out Witch Hunter Robin started last week on Adult Swim, and I missed it. I completely forgot it was premiering, and it looks so cool too. Granted, I don't have cable, but I had a friend who was perfectly willing to tape it for me since I download the lastest fansubs of Inuyasha for us. Now I have to wait till it repeats, which is probably a blessing in disguise.

I really need to get off the laptop. Honestly, procrastinating is so much more entertaining. I don't want to get off my puter. We're having a love affair of epic proportions. ::pout::

Posted by yasmín at 12:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

In a surprising and delightful move, the BBC has decided to add more disABLED actors and extras to their shows and contests. They cite public opinion and the actual reality that a minority of the population actually have or know of someone with a disABILITY. Imagine that. A country that isn't ashamed to show the not so perfect bodies on public tv. They don't throw fits at an exposed breast, or a little shag, and now they're going to include us, the beautiful people and in a non-reality type setting.

Posted by yasmín at 12:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

What was NBC expecting when they zoomed in on Tom Cruise while Nicole Kidman was announcing the Best Actor nominees, and again after Sean Penn won? That was just tacky!

Posted by yasmín at 9:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

SPOILER for Carnavale

Oh my God. The Carnavale season finale so kicked ass. I'm still reeling from it. I'm going to have to watch it again. And I can't believe they used music from The Thin Red Line. Not that I minded because it fit the mood perfectly, but it just goes to show what a music soundtrack geek I can be.

What an amazing show. I hope I don't have to wait a whole year for season 2. That would just be cruel. At least Lodz bit the dust though I did not see that coming. But I still want to know what happens to Appollonia, Sophie, and Jonesy. Gah!!!

If you haven't seen it, what are you waiting for?

Posted by yasmín at 12:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

To the media people: Get thee a life, or a better yet, a refresher course in what really is newsworthy. Michael Jackson is not news, and I am appalled at the sheer number of specials and news programs already lined up for the following days ready to analyze every aspect of his life to determine whether he actually molested the 12 year old boy. Do you really want to know the truth? Hello. As if settling the lawsuit last time didn't make things clear then, but frankly I don't care. The media storm right now is disgusting, and there are more important things going on in the world than MJs mugshot.

Posted by yasmín at 1:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Here we go again. R.I.P. the ever so talented Michael Kamen. I will miss his music. He was just too young.

There are also reports on Dark Horizons and the website for the movie, The Year that Trembled that Jonathan Brandis has died. I want them to be wrong, wrong, wrong!! He's only a year older than me. He can't be dead. Oh hell, I grew up watching him on Seaquest DSV and every other movie and tv show he was on. This is just sad.

Posted by yasmín at 11:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I *heart* The Practice. It hasn't been this good in ages, and Chris O'Donnell is yummy in a scary kinda way. I wonder how they're going to bring him down.

Posted by yasmín at 10:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

South Bend and Salt Lake City will not air Coupling due to its lack of morals among a group of thirtysomethings. Apparently they're supposed to be saints.

I just love cities that try to shelter their inhabitants from such degrading material. Afterall there's always NYPD Blue and CSI.

Posted by yasmín at 6:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

R.I.P. John Ritter.

I still can't believe it. I'm so very sad now.

Posted by yasmín at 10:29 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Djimon Hounson is joining the cast of Alias as a villain this upcoming season. This is positively delicious. I love him as an actor. I can't wait.

Posted by yasmín at 8:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

For the record I would just like to say that I will be boycotting the Emmy's once again, and not just because they overlooked Whedon's shows yet again. It's an ego petting fest, where the same shows get nominated over and over again no matter how poorly they did this season. They even added a reality category!

Bah!

Posted by yasmín at 9:11 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Looks like James Spader is joining The Practice. This is old news, which I find absolutely delightful since I worship the very ground this man treads. The thing that perplexs me is, can he really be that much more affordable than say Dylan McDermott?

Posted by yasmín at 4:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Cartoon Network will be premiering Saint Seiya in August under the name Knights of the Zodiac.

The name change makes sense seeing as I was first introduced to the series under that name in Spanish. I'm just not as thrilled that the series is finally being introduced to US audiences because it's probably going to be played during the Toonami hour, therefore it will be BUTCHERED!!!!

The one good thing is that the episodes will finally be available on DVD. Here's hoping they're the uncut version.

Posted by yasmín at 5:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I like Hugh Jackman. I think he's a good actor, but I never considered him gorgeous........until now. My god, it's the hair. I want to braid it! Run my fingers through those glorious brown strands. I don't want him to cut it off!! And now, I know I will have to admit to two facts. I have a Hugh Jackman hair fetish. I will see Van Helsing aka Vampire Hunter D in disguise!!

And for the record, I'm rather disappointed that Eddie Izzard did not win a Tony.

Posted by yasmín at 9:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

I'm still working on the Buffy review. I had to watch it again before I could start. Actually, Katie and I watched the first two episodes of season 1, and then we watched the last episode ever. It will require more viewings before I'm satisfied. I still can't believe it's over.

The roommate and I are now speculating as to what will happen on Angel. We're both looking foward to the smack down between Angel and Spike. We think Spike is the one prophesied, and that he'll return as a human. I'm not sure I like that idea. Well, as long as he doesn't return as William the bloody awful poet.

Then there is the spin off. There was much speculation, but the roomy and I have both decided that the red head who was doing some major ass kickage will probably be one of the main actors in a new series, should there be one a year from now. And, I just realized that one of the slayers in training that I really liked also died in the episode. Just, not cool.

But, I'm getting ahead of myself.

Anyway, I'm happy despite the fact that I've been pouring over evidence today, and my back was being a pain. I'm really having a difficult time getting used to the new scooter, but boy does that thing go fast!! I was zooming down the hill near my apartment full speed. The wind felt good. I just don't drive it to well. Oops.

And yay! Rueben Studdard won!

Posted by yasmín at 9:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Woe for FOX and American Idol. Apparently, the idea for the show was stolen by Cowell and his associates. I'm wondering if it's a SOL case.

By the way, why couldn't it have been a Locke and Studdard finale. I don't like Clay Aiken.

Posted by yasmín at 12:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

So I'm sitting here pretending to write my paper while chatting with Katie and watching Roswell, when suddenly out of the blue Sci-fi advertises a new show. It's Roar, and of course I'm amused because I remember watching that the summer before my sophomore year. And the star of the series, a young Heath Ledger.

Posted by yasmín at 5:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Oh my god, straight from the rumor mill. Watase Yuu is planning a full fledged sequel to Fushigi Yuugi called Genbu Kaiden. I'm wondering if it will deal with the Genbu Seishi and their Miko that were introduced briefly in the later part of the FY series. That could be interesting if it's true.

I'm just weary of sequels for FY. Though I did enjoy the last two OVAs, they just weren't as good as the actual series.

Posted by yasmín at 12:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

RIP Miracles. I think I kinda expected it seeing as they kept pre-empting the show, but it still annoys me. I like ABC less for it now.

Posted by yasmín at 10:14 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)

Who the hell dressed the guest celebrity on American Idol????? Someone needs to remind him that even though it's disco night, there's a reason those clothes are no longer in fashion. I thought he was a woman!

And I was not impressed with Ruben's performance. The judges loved it, but it sounded way to karioke (that is so not spelled right). Kimberly Locke just finished singing, and though she started a little off, she sounded awesome.

Posted by yasmín at 7:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Trigun premiered last night on Cartoon Network. I think I'm going to like it. I just need to remember to tape it because I need to sleep, and staying up till 11:30 is not an option especially since I tend to get suckered into watching Inuyasha, which I've already seen.

Posted by yasmín at 5:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Adrien Brody won the Oscar? Wow, color me surprised. I was going for Daniel Day, and it didn't work out that way. And do you think he has a crush on Hallie Berry?

This definately ranks as another amusing moment at the Oscars.

Eminem won too. Yay.

They're about to announce the Best Actress winner.

Posted by yasmín at 10:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

I don't know what was more amusing, Michael Moore's comments or the audience's reaction. It was classic.

Quote of the night: "Everytime someone gets an Oscar, an agent gets his wings."

Posted by yasmín at 9:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Go Gael! Cuanto a que no se esperaba eso la Academia.

Surprises so far tonight:

I can't believe Catherine Zeta Jones won the Oscar. And she looked so happy, I can't complain.

Yay for Elliot Goldenthal. I admit I'm a dork. I got a kick out of hearing the announcer mention his previous nominations, including Interview with the Vampire.

The Sharon Stone commercial. Groan. Damn. She looks good for her age.

Now they're presenting The Hours.

Posted by yasmín at 9:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Steve Martin was on a role tonight. I needed a laugh. He made us all laugh. My dad even came to the living room to mock us because we were laughing so much.

And why did they interrupt the broadcast to report this? They aren't saying anything new. Ah, the news is off now. Good.

Posted by yasmín at 8:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

What time is it? It's Oscar time baybee!!! So far I've liked the dresses, but the new style, having one strap over the shoulder, is just icky. And Nia Vardalos looks so thin.

And they've started!!

Posted by yasmín at 7:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I'm not going to sleep tonight! Miracles has succesfully freaked me out. Now I won't be able to stop seeing that little girl. Ack!! I love this show. It's awesome.

Posted by yasmín at 9:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

R. I. P. Mr. Rogers | I woke up this morning to find out that he passed, and it's just sad. I used to watch him religiously when I was little. I don't think I'll ever forget his song, "It's a wonderful day in the neighborhood.."

Posted by yasmín at 8:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)

Last night I caught Bill Mahers new show on HBO. The name escapes me, but the format was very similar to PI. He actually refers to his show as PI2. While I was watching it I kept nodding my head in agreement, and thought, oh my goodness I'm a liberal!! A left-wing miscreant my parents will disown. Actually, I was amused because while I do agree with a few of the things he said, I'm not radical and I absolutely hate labels. I refuse to conform to them either.

And this was really a senseless post.

Something interesting did happen today. Professor V. asked a few students to participate in a symposium for minority students considering attending law school. We were chosen to act as fake students in a fake law class session. I think the students were freaked out by the outcome. T. was in charge of reciting the facts of a hate crime case, and V practically reamed her when she started with an 'um.' Granted, it was a set-up, but none of us were sure what to expect other than the roles were assigned. For instance, two "students" were thrown out, and one was overly prepared. It made T react, and we just sat there trying not to laugh.

It was interesting. Every law school has one of those old fashioned eccentric professors who glean pleasure from humiliating a student to the point of tears then throwing said student out of class in the most embarrassing manner. Then again, I think professors still enjoy humiliating their students, particularly the 1Ls. My class had two such professors, and strangely enough we learned the most from them.

Posted by yasmín at 3:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

My friend JB asked me to boycott the Oscars this year, and I asked him why seeing as he's a huge movie buff. Well apparently two very good foreign films weren't nominated because of the politics behind the countries. Palestine's foreign film was rejected because it isn't recognized as a state, and an Irish film with IRA sympathies was banned precisely because of the IRA. If I find a link I'll post it.

Admittedly, I'm not too excited about the Oscars this time around, but it is very stupid of the Academy for doing what it did. They're all such hypocrites.

Posted by yasmín at 6:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Tonight is the last episode of Kingpin. Sunday night was just interesting, and it reminded me of OZ. For the record, Eduardo Palomo looks awful, but that's probably because of his role in the show. I still miss his Juan del Diablo character from Corazón Salvaje. That was when spanish soaps were actually good.

Posted by yasmín at 8:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Posted at Bitter Magazine

I wish I were in the mood to be witty because I have a ton of things I'd like to rant about. Like Joe Millionaire and the two MJ documentaries. It's a clear sign that Americans have become repugnant when shows like these are worth airing rather than more important news or worthwhile drama.

Then again the media is a sham.

Reach the orange alert and suddenly we're being told by every tv station in America how to duct tape our windows. Then a week later our dear President finally decides to tell us not to panic while Mr. Ashcroft is busy explaining that most of the threats were lies. Really? Al Qaeda is so going to tell you when it's going to strike next. Here Mr. Ashcroft. We at the new and improved Al Qaeda corporation would just like to tell you that we're going to hit the Lincoln Memorial, and the Sears tower, oh and the White House since it bloody well did escape our grasp that last time. You did such a wonderful job torturing us and threatening us that we've decided to tell you it's going to happen on Valentine's Day.

We interrupt your regularly scheduled programming to inform you that nothing happened.

Now Mr. Ashcroft is busy trying to figure out how take away our rights. In the meantime rumors are rampant that the current alert level will go back to yellow, and my neighbor just demanded a refund on her duct tape from the Home Depot.

Did Joe Schmo pick Zora or bondage girl?

What's on tv these days? Paranoia, bullshit, liars, cheaters, propaganda and proof that there no longer is decency on the airwaves. How can there be when news is classified as to whether some worn out musician is a good father despite having all the nose jobs.

Stop the presses! MJ has been abducted by aliens.

The media hardly reported on the world-wide demonstrations against going to war with Iraq. Sure, France is still against it, but who cares about them. They're smelly and they hate Americans. As a matter of fact, all those in favor of the French are also smelly and anti-American, including Americans. Just be careful not to say that too loud, otherwise Ashcroft will find out and have you arrested and have your citizenship revoked because your statements are so pro terrorist. Patriot Act II is on it's way after all.

As my uncle would say, the media has been bought out by the Bush administration, and well life as we know it will never be the same. That of course doesn't stop me from gripping about our substandard programming. But alas, corporate America must be under the impression that we're all white trash.

Posted by yasmín at 9:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)

Miracles is freaky. I'm addicted to a new show and they're going to cancel it. Just you wait and see. Bastards!

Posted by yasmín at 9:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)

I am in lust. I want Skeet Ulrich. I have wanted him since Scream and he is positively absolutely fuckable in Miracles. Seriously, he's just adorable. I haven't had it this bad since I saw Brad Pitt in IWTV. Finally, my obsession with blondes has gone away.

Ok, that's a lie. I can't forget Spike.

Posted by yasmín at 9:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Proof that Kingpin isn't putting latinos in a bad light: Miguel actually helps put the children to bed. Not all men but a majority still believe that it's the woman's job to deal with the children, not the man. Not only does Miguel help out, he plays with his children and has an active role in their life. That and his wife works and she's white. That's major.

Posted by yasmín at 9:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

"Pinches gringos"

Oh boy. I'm getting a kick out of this show.

Ay caray, el general bajo sus pantalones como si nada. Siempre tiene que ser una competencia para ver quien tiene los huevos mas grandes. jaja

Posted by yasmín at 9:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Look! I was right. The criticism is already beginning to pour in. Oh well. I'm still watching Kingpin tonight while I work on my direct and cross for tomorrow.

Posted by yasmín at 11:32 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I watched Kingpin last night, and I just have to say: What a great show! I spent most of the hour cracking up. Everything about the show just seemed right on. We Mexicans really do talk like that. And the fact that there were so many bad words in Spanish had me very much amused. I'm glad not everything was subtitled, and I'm glad that no character on the show was reduced to a stereotype.

I know there are some latino groups who are ready to trash the show because they think it makes us look bad, and my answer to that is to get real. The Mexican Mafia exists, and to claim that it portrays minorities in a negative light is both stupid, and promotes censorship. Neither is good.

Posted by yasmín at 8:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

This is what I hate: watching a show that oozes potential, has some stunning visuals, and the story is actually freaky and good. Why do I hate it? Chances are it could get canceled, but then again the numbers aren't in.

Twenty minutes into Miracles and I'm loving it.

Posted by yasmín at 9:15 PM | Permalink