Mamma Mia - Out on DVD!

Having never seen the Broadway show, I was not sure what the storyline was for Mamma Mia. I knew it involved a girl trying to figure out which out of three of her Mother's past loves might be her father. She invites them all to her wedding (unbeknownst to her mom) and hilarity ensues. I decided to just watch it in the theater with an open mind.

I am a fan of Abba's music, love musicals, and like most of the actors in this movie rendition ,so I had a feeling I would like the film of Mamma Mia as a whole as well. And I definitely did. It really is an infectious, feel-good movie, even if the storyline is a bit far fetched. For the duration of the film you are transported to a world where you let your inhibitions go and just want to sing. I happened to be sitting next to two women in the theater who were so happy at the end of this movie that they asked me if I enjoyed it as much as they did. It was nice to see people around you bonding and in a great mood for a change.

The movie was filmed in beautiful Greece so the scenery is gorgeous. Meryl Streep is fabulous as always and she sings quite well too! Amanda Seyfried was great as her daughter in the film and the only singing that was a bit off came from Pierce Brosnan. It was obvious he was cast for his looks alone which is too bad. But everyone else in the cast tries to help you ignore his cringe worthy singing moments and they do quite a good job.

In this strange and uncertain economic time, it is nice to be able to see a film that will take your mind away from it all. I find Mamma Mia to be the perfect movie to do just that. It will most likely make you want to sing and dance along with the characters. Anyway, I look forward to adding it to my DVD collection so I can see it again whenever the mood strikes.

Review: Australia

Even clocking in at approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, Australia is definitely a must see. It is epic story telling at its best and every scene is breathtaking - as I would expect any scene of a Baz Luhrmann project to be. Having been a huge fan of his work, I was still unsure of what to expect when I sat down to watch Australia. I just knew I had more than enough faith in the director and the stars, so I went in ready to watch the story unfold. I was not disappointed.

I thought the performances of Hugh Jackman and Nicole Kidman were fantastic. The story is a mix of everything: romance, action, good vs. evil, history, times of war, and the way of life in the Outback of Australia. In my opinion, they just don't make movies like this any more. I was constantly engaged throughout the film and never noticed the time going by. It felt as if I was transported to Australia for the almost three hours and am ready to go see it with my own eyes some day. I don't like to give away plot lines, so I will just say that this is a movie that will take you on a journey to a wondrous place and you will experience storytelling that is not found in most of the movies released nowadays.

The message throughout the film of "just because it is, doesn't mean it should be" stands true. Just because this movie has not received the box office numbers and awards recognition it deserves, that doesn't mean it should be the case. I definitely recommend that you go see Australia while you can on the big screen.

The Dark Knight Arrives on DVD!

The box office phenomenon of 2008, The Dark Knight, arrives on DVD this week. Based on the amount of money it made in theaters, it is sure to be a huge success in DVD sales as well. For me it is bittersweet since this film features the last completed performance by Heath Ledger. I thought his portrayal of the Joker was beyond brilliant and in my mind he created one of the most terrifying villains ever on screen. The battle between good and evil throughout the film is that much more intense because you believe that the Joker is capable of doing absolutely anything and without any remorse. This film as a whole addresses every person's potential to do the right thing amidst so many others in society who choose not to. And of course doing the right thing for the greater good is not always an easy choice. It truly is an excellent film with the right cast and action sequences to really pull it off. Add it to your queue or go get your copy on DVD today!

UPDATE: Watching the Dark Knight for a second time on DVD was a different experience without the being-scared-of-the-what-happens-next factor as I had felt the first time when I saw it in theaters. This second time around, it was even more inspiring and brilliant. It reminds you that even amongst the chaos of the world and everyone doing wrong around you, doing the right thing still prevails over all. I loved it all the more for that message. I now know the benefit of seeing this movie more than once in theaters (like so many did) would have been worth it. In any case, I am glad I bought it on DVD without a doubt. It was one of the best movies of 2008 for certain!

Twilight - The Movie and The Books

Even though I am not in the intended young adult demographic, I am still a huge fan of the Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer. I was just as eager as the many other fanatics to get my hands on Breaking Dawn on August 2nd this past summer and once I finished reading it, my Twilight addiction was only calmed by the fact that a movie of the first book would be released this fall.

As a whole, the Twilight series is just a pleasure to read. I found them to be a quick and addictive reading experience. Once I reread Twilight to prepare myself for the movie, I immediately reached for my copy of New Moon (the second book in the series) just so I didn't have to leave the characters and their story. As someone long out of high school, Twilight especially, feels like you are experiencing first love all over again. There is nothing complicated with the writing style, in fact it is quite simple, but the characters and story have won me over anyway - even the second time around. Each book in the series goes in different directions, introducing new characters and their subsequent drama. Breaking Dawn somehow ties everything together as a proper end to the series. So even if you are unsure of giving the series a chance or are a bit turned off by all the movie hype, I still recommend reading the books - ideally before seeing the film.

With great anticipation, I ended up seeing the movie with my Mom, who had not had a chance to read the book yet. I spend the 2 hours in a state of shock. It seemed way overdone at parts while way underdone with regards to the special effects. It also bugged me that some plot elements were left out or changed. The relationship between Edward and Bella felt rushed and I was constantly worried about how someone who had not read the book would interpret everything. I came out of this viewing disappointed and my mom was certain that if she had read the book more details would piece it together better. I loved Robert Pattinson as Edward and Kristen Stewart was a good Bella. The makeup on some of the characters was a bit unrealistic too. Carlisle's entrance was the most laughable one and there was no need for it to be. Anyway, one thing my Mom and I both agreed on was that the music was fantastic. I had already purchased the soundtrack prior to seeing the movie but I found myself unable to stop listening after seeing where every song fit in to the way they did the movie. It is a great soundtrack and I also enjoy the score.

So my first time watching Twilight on the big screen left a little to be desired but I didn't give up. Somehow I still had the urge to give it another chance. I wanted to see it again, knowing now what to expect. That way I could see it and re-immerse myself into the story and not be worrying about my mom while I watched. I would not be surprised by anything the second time around. Happily I discovered that the second viewing of the film was very enjoyable. Even my Mom liked it a lot better. She has just started reading the book so it will be interesting to see what she thinks of it after.

Twilight made enough money during its first weekend to green light them making a film of the next book, New Moon. This is great on one end of the spectrum, as I can't get enough of the series. However, I am quite concerned about the special effects as they only increase in the second book. I hope they will invest enough money in New Moon to do it justice. I wish they had for Twilight as it definitely deserved it and the success of the books would have automatically guaranteed the success of the investment. Until it gets released, I will just hope for the best.

So the truth remains that the books are better than the movie. But the movie is an enjoyable experience once you accept the low budget and changes made to the original story. I am still a huge fan of the series. I you go see the movie, I hope you enjoy it. If you were disappointed the first time you saw it, the second viewing is better once your expectations are prepared.

Review: Zack and Miri Make a Porno

Kevin Smith's latest movie venture, Zack and Miri Make A Porno has already caused controversy before it ever even reached theaters due to the film's name and some of its advertising. So upon actually viewing it, I was surprised to find that at it's heart this is a romantic comedy - just one that is off the beaten path for how it gets to the usual conclusion. As per the trend of many of the latest Apatow films and especially because of the subject matter of the film, there is a lot of raunch and open discussion of sexual situations. But amidst this, there is the realization of feelings between the characters and the genuine spirit of people coming together to work on a common goal which in this case just happens to be making a porno.

Seth Rogen plays his typical character in this film as Zack, the roommate to Elizabeth Bank's Miri. The premise is that these two are so broke that they need a plan to make some fast money and after an inspirational conversation in a hysterical scene with Justin Long, the idea that a porno will make everything better is born. Elizabeth Banks is quite charming in her role as Miri, although she fits right in with the rest of the cast as the storyline goes forward on its path. You will see some of Smith's usual stars appear as characters in this movie as well.

If you like Kevin Smith movies, you will most likely be a fan of this one. And all those Apatow fans will be able to enjoy this film until the Apatow gang's next project gets released. So if you aren't intimidated by the subject matter at hand, I would say this movie is worth seeing.

Movie Night In - DVD Recommendations

There are some great DVDs now available to watch.

Sex and the City: The Movie came out last week and if you are a fan of the series you will definitely want to be a part of the phenomenon. I found it to be an emotional roller coaster but also enjoyed seeing what the girls had been up to since we last saw them on the small screen. Everyone is still in top form.

After a long wait, one of my favorite comedies of the year was released on DVD today. Forgetting Sarah Marshall is now available on a 3 disc collectors edition and also as a single disc. I found myself laughing throughout the entire movie and there is a great ensemble cast of characters in this Judd Apatow Production which was penned by the movie's star, Jason Segel. As with Apatow's other releases there is a bit of raunchiness in this film but the story has a lot of heart and the Hawaii scenery is as beautiful as you would expect it to be.

The other big new release today is Iron Man. I have not yet seen this movie but have only heard great things about it so I cannot wait to make my own judgement. I expect I will love it since Robert Downey Jr. is always entertaining and it looks like another great comic book adaptation. It is in my possession and I will watch it soon.

So there you have it! Lots of great movies to add to your queue. Enjoy!

Super Premiere Thursday!

There are so many favorites returning today that I am beaming with excitement. Here is the schedule for tonight!

8pm ET
Survivor: Cabon on CBS (2 hour Premiere episode)
My Name Is Earl on NBC (2 back to back Premiere Episodes)
Kitchen Nightmares (2 Back to Back New Episodes)
Ugly Betty on ABC (Premiere)
Smallville on the CW (Premiere)

9pm ET
The Office on NBC (1 Hour Premiere)
Grey's Anatomy on ABC (2 Hour Premiere Episode)
Supernatural on The CW (Premiere)

10pm ET
CSI (Premiere)
ER (Premiere)

I am a huge fan of The Office and Grey's Anatomy so I can't wait for tonight's new episodes!

Tonight's Season Premieres

More Fall shows are back! Check out tonight's TV schedule!

8pm ET
The New Adventures of Old Christine on CBS (Premiere)
Knight Rider on NBC (New Show Premiere)
Bones on Fox (New)
Dancing With the Stars Results Show on ABC
America's Next Top Model on The CW (New)

8:30pm ET
Garry Unmarried (New Show Premiere)

9pm ET
Criminal Minds on CBS (New)
America's Got Talent on NBC (New)
'Till Death on Fox (Premiere)
David Blaine: Dive of Death on ABC (2 Hour Special)
90210 on The CW (Rerun)

9:30pm ET
Do Not Disturb (New)

10pm ET
CSI: NY (Premiere)
Lipstick Jungle on NBC (Premiere)


Happy TV Watching Everybody!

Tonight's Season Premieres

More shows have their premieres today and many others return with all new episodes. Here is the schedule:

8pm ET
NCIS on CBS (Premiere)
Biggest Loser Families on NBC (2 Hour Premiere Episode)
Opportunity Knocks on ABC (Premiere)
House on Fox (New)
90210 on the CW (New)

9pm ET
The Mentalist on CBS (New Show Premiere)
Fringe on Fox (New)
Dancing with the Stars (New 2 hour episode)
Privileged on the CW (New)

10pm ET
Without a Trace on CBS (New)
Law And Order: SVU on NBC (Premiere)

Tonight's Season Premieres

This week's TV schedule kicks off with some season premieres of your favorite shows tonight. So make sure that you are ready! Or at least be sure you set your TIVO/DVR!

8pm ET
The Big Bang Theory on CBS
Dancing with the Stars on ABC (2 hour premiere episode)

8:30pm ET
How I Met Your Mother on CBS

9pm ET
Heroes (2 hour premiere episode) on NBC
Two and A Half Men on CBS

9:30pm ET
Worst Week (new show) on CBS

10pm ET
Boston Legal on ABC
CSI: Miami on CBS

There are also new episodes of Gossip Girl and One Tree Hill on the CW while Fox has new episodes of Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles and Prison Break.

Emmys Awards 2008

So I was catching up on Dirt Sexy Money Season 1 on DVD when I made sure to stop so I could turn on the 60th Annual Emmy Awards. Why do I keep pretending that they might actually change it up a bit each year? The first award was for best supporting actor in a comedy. There were excellent nominees in this category. Is it just me or is it really annoying when the same person wins for the exact same character for years in a row? When I heard the nominees I was so excited for Neil Patrick Harris. I thought - it's got to be his year!! But alas, they awarded Jeremy Piven with his third consecutive Emmy. Don't get me wrong- I think Piven is supurb as Ari Gold on Entrourage. I just get so tired of the same people winning over and over again for essentially doing the same thing when there is so much other talent out there. And most of this amazing talent isn't even nominated!

Thus began my viewing experience of this year's Emmy Awards. Essentially the word boring sums up the night for me. I did not find the reality host nominees entertaining for the most part. And by the end of the evening it was quite obvious that everyone is a member of the Tina Fey fan club (maybe this is why Sarah Palin became so popular so quickly!). I do enjoy 30 Rock and am a fan of Tina Fey's work but I also LOVE The Office and thought it was snubbed. I also can't help but wish Arrested Development was still around and that it received half the Emmy love that 30 Rock is getting for the second year in a row. Oh how I miss Arrested Development!!! But moving on...

The Best Television Drama category felt more like the show with the most hype won. I watched the entire first season of Mad Men but did not fall in love with it. I enjoy how well the show is done and that you feel transported to the time period it takes place in while you watch it. I just thought Lost or Dexter were a bit more deserving. But hey, this is just my take on the matter.

The one show I felt deserved absolutely every award it recieved was John Adams. What an excellent piece of work on all possible fronts. If you haven't already seen it, add it to your queue today! Don't be deterred by the length of this mini-series, it is supurb and worth every second.

Highlights for me was the Ricky Gervais/Steve Carell bit, Kathy Griffin and Don Rickles presenting, and I actually enjoyed Josh Groban's theme song medley performance. For me there wasn't much else to write home about. Even the fashion was rather blah this year and that is usually my favorite part. Maybe one year the Emmys will get it right both with the nominations and the awards themselves. One can still hope, right??

For a full list of winners go to: http://cdn.emmys.tv/awards/primetimeawards.php

Movie Night In - DVD Recommendations

Fall Premiers are almost here and that means new DVD releases to add to your online rental queue. Now is the time to catch up on any shows you may have missed and make sure you are all caught up with your favorite storylines. The following are some of my favorites and are either available now on DVD or soon will be:

The Office Season 4

Pushing Daisies

Grey's Anatomy Season 4

Desperate Housewives Season 4

Dirty Sexy Money

Heroes Season 2

Ugly Betty Season 2

Chuck

Private Practice

Brothers and Sisters Season 2

Samantha Who (avail 9/23)

If you'd prefer a movie, check out Baby Mama - a hilarious comedy featuring the fantastic pairing of Tina Fey and Amy Poehler. Made of Honor is the major new romantic comedy released this week. Patrick Dempsey stars in this role reversal but still formulaic chick flick. And for some enlightened but ridiculous laughs, see The Love Guru with Mike Myers.

So grab some popcorn, curl up on the couch and enjoy!

Spectacle - Coming Soon to Your TV Set!

As a member of Jenny Lewis' fan club I was happy to see a post for a contest to see her for an upcoming show in NYC. It all happened pretty quickly so when I won the contest I still was not sure exactly what I was in for. Turns out I had won tickets to see a taping of Elvis Costello's new talk/variety show appropriately named Spectacle: Elvis Costello with....

This show is taped at the historical Apollo Theater which is the perfect setting for the creative musical collaborations that I was lucky enough to witness. This episode featured the super talented singer/songwriting of Jenny Lewis, She & Him (Zooey Deschanel and M. Ward), and Jakob Dylan.

The show began with Elvis coming out to greet us, playing a song and as he introduced his band we discovered that one theme of this episode was how these artists were all children of famous/show business parents. Once the open discussion began it was also evident that all of these artist's new album and recent creative work really complemented each other.

She & Him opened with their song Change is Hard. It has a soft yet meaningful old country feel to it. Their first album together She & Him: Volume One has been said to sound like it was from a different era because there is such a timeless and sometimes old fashioned quality to it. Elvis then spoke with Zooey Deschanel and M. Ward for a bit about how their collaboration came about and how their influences inspired their work. Soon after Jenny Lewis came out to join the discussion and we find out that she and M. Ward worked together on songs that will be on her upcoming album - Acid Tongue (out 9/23/08). Jenny brought up how she is a huge fan of old country music and has been deeply influenced by the emerging LA country style that she has heard. I am eagerly anticipating her new album and was overjoyed to hear her perform Pretty Bird which M. Ward had worked with her on. I loved it! We also found out that Jenny and Elvis Costello had combined forces. We were treated to a performance of the 2 songs they sing together on each of their respective albums.

Next up was Jakob Dylan. He too has a new solo album called Seeing Things and after years of trying to distance himself from the more quiet man-and-his-guitar style, he is now comfortable embracing it. He even played an acoustic version of his first hit with his band the Wallflowers - "One Headlight". His discussion with Elvis was quite informative and we got to hear some amusing stories of interactions they each had with other famous musicians. These two had a great rapport with each other and it was a pleasure to hear them share their influences. We also heard two of Jakob's new songs performed with Elvis playing and singing along.

Jenny Lewis then came back on the stage for a one on one interview. We heard more about her writing process and how she gets the ideas for her songs.

The grand finale featured all the guests on stage performing Peace Love & Understanding together. Hearing this live was amazing and Elvis reminded us that this song has so much meaning in the times we are living in today. I couldn't agree more!

Overall, this show left me really inspired and eager to view it as a finished product. For anyone who is interested in getting in depth access to their favorite artists it will surely be a hit. Elvis Costello is entertaining all on his own but hearing him have these intimate discussions with other artists on how their ideas and music come to exist is a priceless opportunity. Not to mention the combined performances that occur throughout the show. I will definitely be watching when this show is on the Sundance Channel. I will keep you posted with when it airs.

A Moment of Silence

One of our favorite Golden Girls, Estelle Getty, has passed away Tuesday morning at her LA residence. She was 84 years old. She will live on in our hearts and when we see any of her fantastic theatrical accomplishments. She will be missed!

Emmy Awards

So the Emmy nominations have been announced and it just feels like more of the same to me. Once again the excellent performances of Kyle Chandler and Connie Britton in Friday Night Lights were completely ignored. I know they are not the only ones who were overlooked as these awards seem to routinely pick the same nominees over and over again, reward the same people years in a row, all while overlooking many other extremely talented actors. This year I didn't try to get my hopes up so my reaction is pretty indifferent. I will tune in like I always do - if for no other reason than to see the stars and what they choose to wear.

Here is the link to the full list of nominations:

http://www.emmys.org/awards/primetimeawards.php

Big Brother 10 - First Eviction

I must admit that Big Brother is one of my summer guilty pleasure shows. And the first eviction usually is pretty anticlimactic since we barely know the contestants. However, I must say that last night it gave me great pleasure to see Brian evicted. When he came in and immediately started acting like he was god and thought he could play everyone else in the house, I was not sure people would be smart enough to catch on. As is often the case in this show, people blindly think that they are the only ones in an alliance when in fact that are one of many clueless people in the same situation. He went to absolutely everyone in the house and was certainly full of himself assuming he was the man in power. He was also telling people that he had control over who goes and who stays! This early in the game no less! Anyway, I loved how people opened their mouths to reveal that he had in fact been trying to play eveyone at the same time. Banding together and telling Jerry (this week's HOH) really did seem like the only solution and I was surprised Jerry was so hesitant to act on it. Luckily he did the right thing and nominated Brian. After that, we all knew who would be going home this week.

This season is off to a great start! Let's hope it keeps its momentum.