The show opens with Gaga and a crazy Fame Factory stage. She sings Poker Face in a green leotard and gets thrown in a fire and then comes out with dueling pianos with Elton John - both are burned and ashy. I am not a Gaga crazed person -- I've pretty much enjoyed all of her songs, but I don't need to go to her concerts like many that I know. I don't want to go to a party because she is performing. BUT, I will say this -- the woman can actually sing and perform. Love that Elton still stays culturally relevant by joining forces with performers like Gaga and Eminem. She deserves her nominations.
Stephen Colbert comes out to monologue -- was that really his daughter? I just don't think it is necessary for anyone to talk about the Jonas Brothers or Susan Boyle. Even if they are making fun of them.
Song of the Year -- Poker Face, Single Ladies, Use Somebody, Pretty Wings by Maxwell and You Belong with Me by Taylor. This is for the songwriter. I say Use Somebody, but put a ring on it is obviously the best writing!?!
So Green Day has now created a Broadway Show. I was just about to fast forward, but I totally got sucked in. Green Day is cool.
Love that Bon Jovi is the band warranting the fan vote. I didn't vote because I've seen them sing it all, but I would go for It's My Life -- Living on a Prayer has been done and Always makes me cry.
Country Album -- Zac Brown, George Strait, Taylor Swift, Keith Urban, LeeAnn Womack -- should and will go to Taylor. Yup. Very stunning dress.
Beyonce leads an army to the stage. They are really using the full venue for this. She has such an amazing voice. The heart of her voice is so strong in her upper range. She doesn't strain or scream. I like that she picked to sing If I Were a Boy. Great song. Then she goes into Alanis -- my go to karaoke song, FYI. Then she freaked out on her knees on the stage. The drama is a little too much to take.
WOW WOW WOW Pink blew me away -- such a beautiful performance. We've seen her trapeze before, but this goddess gown walking down the aisle, then the unveiling of the ribbon unitard, then the arial performance, the dunking and then the finale. All while singing a gorgeous song.
Oh Miranda, BAD dress, BAD dress, BAD dress. Keith, you're HOT, you're HOT, you're HOT.
Best New Artist -- I only know Zac Brown and The Ting Tings (they are just this year?) Zac Brown wins -- this band is so fun live - amazing musicians. Zac has a gorgeous voice. So cool!
Fast forwarding Black Eyed Peas -- I have seen them enough. Done. Ready for Fergie solo album again (in a year or so).
Lady Antebellum comes out. Getting the new album stat. This song is growing on me, but I'm ready for their next single which is supposed to be that sweet twangy kind of thing.
Record of the Year (for the producer) -- Halo, I Gotta a Feeling, Use Somebody, Poker Face, You Belong with Me. I say Use Somebody or I Gotta a Feeling. Kings of Leon win. I thought there was something like they didn't want to be at the Grammy's -- or just not perform? That main guy is so cute. I can't remember which brother is which.
Someone wants to cause me extreme pain -- Jamie Foxx plus T-Pain plus Slash plus Doug E Fresh in an auto tune debacle. I HATE AUTO TUNE and I HATE JAMIE FOXX and I HATE T PAIN. Now I hate Slash and Doug E Fresh for being a part of their performance.
Rock Album - Green Day, will never forget my friend Amanda from my year abroad in Paris who dated two of them before their big break. She was a riot.
Zac Brown!!! Yes they are country on the charts, but they are more than one genre. Did you hear the crazy jam of America the Beautiful? Insane!
So now Taylor Swift is on and this gives me the opportunity to call out my friend AMY STARKEY. I know she has read all of my blogs, so she knows that I don't think Taylor can sing. Just because I love country music does not mean that I need to be held responsible for all of it. But since I am forced once again to defend it, here goes. Taylor Swift is young. She is a good songwriter of country pop songs - very good compared to other songwriters her age and even some older than her. Her records are fun to listen to -- dreamy teenage heartache, catchy revenge songs, sweet love songs. She needs to strengthen her singing. I am not the one who has made her a superstar -- the people who bought her albums in record numbers did. I am not the one to hate and I do not need to defend her again. You don't like her, then fast forward it. I don't care!!! Oh and Amy, then cracking about Jon Bon Jovi's hair? Do I cut his hair? Is there a need to make fun of him? The man has sold albums and had a career for over 20 years. And he looks damn good. You don't like him? Then don't listen. I don't care. And if you have so much to say, then write your own blog.
There, done. (I love you Ams :))
Michael Jackson tribute is a new version of his Earth Song sung by MJ, plus Celine Dion, Usher, Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Hudson and Smokey Robinson. The audience is wearing 3D glasses. Beyonce is rocking out in the audience. WillIAm does not look happy. Carrie looks STUNNING and is really rocking out! Such an eclectic group but they really melded together. Nice way to do a tribute instead of the same old, same old. Super cool.
This Grammy's is one of the best ever. RIght? But now MJ's kids are going to come out which seems so weird. They are stunning kids. Very well spoken Prince. He is a real kid. Oh, no Paris, she breaks my heart.
JBJ hits the stage - can't wait til the new Meadowlands Stadium concert this summer!! Amy, suck it, he looks great. Starts with the new single We Weren't Born to Follow and then brings out my favorite -- Jennifer Nettles of SUGARLAND to sing Who Says You Can't Go Home -- I love her!!! Go Gillian, she looks fantastic. All my fashion friends who don't want to help me dress her are RETARDED. I did help her with the red carpet outfit, thank you Victoria Beckham! Richie and JBJ sandwich. The fans voted for Livin' on a Prayer and Richie got to bring out that voice thingy (I forgot what it is called!) Jennifer sings along (oh I would have voted a zillion times for Always if I had known she was going to duet).
Rap / Sung Collaboration -- would have been funny if Andy Samberg had won. But Jay Z and Rihanna and Kanye deserve it. Who is the little kid?
Go Target for their iTunes collaboration - nice marketing deal.
David Foster song for Haitian relief with Andre Bocelli. Yikes, I can't do it. This guy is EVERYWHERE. Surprise, Mary J comes out too. She needs to take a break. Sorry, I know she is amazing, but she is seriously everywhere.
Dave Matthews Band is celebrating 20 years? God, I am old. I make fun of them now with the ubiquitous touring, but I did go nuts over the first 2 albums. Dancing in Raj and Prit's apartment - so fun. Dave likes to dance too -- or whatever that was called.
Remember Ricky Martin's Grammy performance that launched him into superstardom? I am kind of missing hearing something new tonight. Adele, Beyonce, Pink, Katy Perry, Taylor - Female Pop Performance goes to Beyonce. I give her credit for not being afraid of wearing big dresses. I wouldn't have minded seeing Pink get something. She is cool. But this was worth the shout out to Jay Z - has she ever done that? Is that her sister's kid?
Maxwell could be my new thing. I've heard about this album, but haven't listened. He has gotten better with age. Very smooth. Have I told you how much I love the new Alicia Keys album? Uggh I can't stop listening to it - it is awesome. Roberta Flack's face does not move.
What is Quentin Tarantino wearing? He is a freak. Drake with Eminem and Lil Wayne. With the way he introduced it, it should be spectacular. Oh, I might hate Lil Wayne as much as T Pain.
Final award is Album of the Year -- Beyonce, Black Eye Peas, Lady Gaga in yet another get up!, Dave Matthews Band, Taylor Swift. I would say Beyonce, but Taylor wins it. Incredible. As I said to Amy earlier, it is a start to finish album, you never have to forward a song. And it was the top seller of the year. I think Gaga is going to lose it. She is genuine so psyched.
Well that is the end of this one folks. It was a good show -- not a lot of awards which is a little weird, but probably made it better. Maybe Amy will guest blog next year?
Good night and remember, don't be ashamed of your obsessions, or making fun of mine.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Sucky LA and Dallas with Neil Patrick Harris
Avril judges in LA -- she is so uncomfortable -- wearing her hood. I am a big fan of hers and her songwriting -- I think she is 25 now at most and ranks a lot higher than Taylor Swift in my book for songwriting and singing. But she speaks like a 15 year old. She got married young and is now separated from Derek Whibly of Sum 51, so it was interesting her voting no for the pastor with 4 children. And the end of each line that she says go up? like this?
Mary Powers - Pat Benatar look alike and sound alike -- she should not have gotten through.
Higher expectations for Katy Perry - I'm a fan of hers - fun songs, good melodies, great voice. The judges arrive via helicopter. Too bad neither day in LA had any success, they have already spent 37 minutes and only showed the Pat Benatar wanna be get through (who didn't deserve to).
Tasha Layton who sang Baby Baby Baby by Joss Stone - great voice, but I think she is too serious.
Not impressed with the auditions right now. So we will meet almost everyone in Hollywood week? Kara and Katy at odds - they write songs together so it is a genuine relationship and I enjoyed the bickering.
Chris Golightly, from the foster care system -- Stand By Me. Sounds good, nothing great, but his backstory is nice of course. Nice conversation about the backstory and how much value it should have. This is not a lifetime movie says Katy.
22 went from LA to Hollywood -- they showed 2 who got through. Really?
Then they went to Dallas. Two reasons to look forward to this -- Kelly Clarkson came from Dallas season 1 and Neil Patrick Harris is the guest judge. Love that he started it by saying he was going to crush as many dreams as possible. I thought Katy Perry was great and honest and "judgeworthy" yesterday and I am looking forward to the multi-talented Neil.
They start with Julie who auditioned Season 1 and was horrible. Her "sparkly" outfit did not make this audition several years later any better and the judges made that clear. But I love that she was talking technique, she should have breathed better -- it proves that you can't learn how to sing, you have to have it in you.
Then Lloyd the dockworker comes in and proves that Idol is clear on its message this season -- it is about the "real" person with hopes and dreams trying to make it. And in the the end, all those that have won have been "real" people with backstories and heartache and tough times who get a chance to be a star -- even the winners don't all make it, but they get a chance. He makes it through because of his voice and his genuine energy.
The showdown between Simon and Neil was fantastic -- they disagree, there is tension -- this is a nice way of bringing energy to these auditions. Proves that another voice can challenge Simon and freshness can add to the show, makes me less afraid of losing Simon if we get this kind of energy in a new way. Yes right now he is an important part of the equation, but gives me hope.
Kimberly Carver singing an original with energy and volume. And a great voice. And Simon shoots her down. Neil totally took over an took it to a vote and she gets through -- so funny. He could take over for Simon.
Erica from Barney comes in with a whip. Not a great voice so I don't think she will go far - the judges let the act win them over, we'll see.
Dave Pittman who has Tourettes -- okay looking, nice voice, Neil points out the Tourettes and notes that it doesn't come out when he sings. Give him another chance and I believe in the dream. This is a crazy season -- so many stories, but which stories make it through?
Oh no, Day 2 in Dallas is a Jonas Brother as guest judge -- I want more Neil!!!!!!!!!!
Maegan Wright with the little brother singing To Make You Feel My Love -- I don't think she was on key, but she could melt me. She could make a lot of mistakes, but I want to see her again.
Christian Spear -- leukemia survivor at age 16. Not great, but she deserves a shot -- she took it seriously and let's see.
I is weird this year -- I keep looking at the dynamic of the judges because of all the drama, but it is hte contestants even in the auditions and their stories that are keeping me hooked. What will Idol be this year -- the year of the judges or the year of the Idols?
More soon my friends, and don't be ashamed of your obsessions...
Mary Powers - Pat Benatar look alike and sound alike -- she should not have gotten through.
Higher expectations for Katy Perry - I'm a fan of hers - fun songs, good melodies, great voice. The judges arrive via helicopter. Too bad neither day in LA had any success, they have already spent 37 minutes and only showed the Pat Benatar wanna be get through (who didn't deserve to).
Tasha Layton who sang Baby Baby Baby by Joss Stone - great voice, but I think she is too serious.
Not impressed with the auditions right now. So we will meet almost everyone in Hollywood week? Kara and Katy at odds - they write songs together so it is a genuine relationship and I enjoyed the bickering.
Chris Golightly, from the foster care system -- Stand By Me. Sounds good, nothing great, but his backstory is nice of course. Nice conversation about the backstory and how much value it should have. This is not a lifetime movie says Katy.
22 went from LA to Hollywood -- they showed 2 who got through. Really?
Then they went to Dallas. Two reasons to look forward to this -- Kelly Clarkson came from Dallas season 1 and Neil Patrick Harris is the guest judge. Love that he started it by saying he was going to crush as many dreams as possible. I thought Katy Perry was great and honest and "judgeworthy" yesterday and I am looking forward to the multi-talented Neil.
They start with Julie who auditioned Season 1 and was horrible. Her "sparkly" outfit did not make this audition several years later any better and the judges made that clear. But I love that she was talking technique, she should have breathed better -- it proves that you can't learn how to sing, you have to have it in you.
Then Lloyd the dockworker comes in and proves that Idol is clear on its message this season -- it is about the "real" person with hopes and dreams trying to make it. And in the the end, all those that have won have been "real" people with backstories and heartache and tough times who get a chance to be a star -- even the winners don't all make it, but they get a chance. He makes it through because of his voice and his genuine energy.
The showdown between Simon and Neil was fantastic -- they disagree, there is tension -- this is a nice way of bringing energy to these auditions. Proves that another voice can challenge Simon and freshness can add to the show, makes me less afraid of losing Simon if we get this kind of energy in a new way. Yes right now he is an important part of the equation, but gives me hope.
Kimberly Carver singing an original with energy and volume. And a great voice. And Simon shoots her down. Neil totally took over an took it to a vote and she gets through -- so funny. He could take over for Simon.
Erica from Barney comes in with a whip. Not a great voice so I don't think she will go far - the judges let the act win them over, we'll see.
Dave Pittman who has Tourettes -- okay looking, nice voice, Neil points out the Tourettes and notes that it doesn't come out when he sings. Give him another chance and I believe in the dream. This is a crazy season -- so many stories, but which stories make it through?
Oh no, Day 2 in Dallas is a Jonas Brother as guest judge -- I want more Neil!!!!!!!!!!
Maegan Wright with the little brother singing To Make You Feel My Love -- I don't think she was on key, but she could melt me. She could make a lot of mistakes, but I want to see her again.
Christian Spear -- leukemia survivor at age 16. Not great, but she deserves a shot -- she took it seriously and let's see.
I is weird this year -- I keep looking at the dynamic of the judges because of all the drama, but it is hte contestants even in the auditions and their stories that are keeping me hooked. What will Idol be this year -- the year of the judges or the year of the Idols?
More soon my friends, and don't be ashamed of your obsessions...
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
More Idol Auditions - a quickie
First of all, I really have to apologize to Michael C. Hall of Dexter about my Globes coverage. I did not realize that he actually is battling cancer which is why he was wearing the knit cap. Apologies for my insensitivity.
Now, onto Idol -- last time I wrote you all was from Day 1 of auditions with Victoria Beckham guest judging. Day 2 was in Hotlanta with Mary J. Blige. Just wanted to call out some top auditions so later I can say I told you so. Keia Johnson, Miss Congeniality who sang the theme from Titanic, Jermaine Sellars with his rendition of Joan Osborne's What if God Was One of Us?, Mallorie Haley who sang Piece of My Heart -- LOVED her, she sounded just like Miranda Lambert. And then even Carmen who came in with her friend Lauren (who was so annoying) and sang a Kelly Clarkson song and Brian Walker the cop -- gorgeous voice. Of course my favorite of the night was General Larry Pratt writer of Pants on the Ground -- I think it was hilarious. Idol has always had weirdos that you cringe at and don't want to laugh at -- Gen. Pratt was just genuinely funny and at 62 he was obviously not trying to audition. BTW I felt really bad for Mary J when she got the giggles. Can you imagine walking into that audition room and seeing her as the judge? I mean as a vocalist, that would add like ten times the pressure.
Okay, moving on to tonight's episode in Chicago. LOVE that Shania is the guest judge. She is notoriously closed off - never makes appearances and especially since her stupid husband left her for her best friend, she has really been mum. Good for her, she is now with her best friend's husband and she is putting out a new album soon, I think.
Katelynn -- Her father just left her Mom, ouch! Singing Duffy. Good strong voice that is not yelly. She does need to energize, but good start.
Same cannot be said for Amy Lang who loves Ryan and fell on the floor and then boob boxed. I have never been so uncomfortable.
Charity -- with her hair cutting parents sang Summertime -- wow. Light, floaty voice hat felt fresh. I hope she doesn't go weird on us. She could be awesome.
Angela Martin -- I have never heard of so many problems -- sick child who had to have her child committed, then her father was killed when she made it to Hollywood Season 7, then she made it again Season 8 and had to appear in court for a traffic violation and missed the last day. Now she makes it through again. Fingers crossed nothing happens!
Just realized that this season they aren't doing that thing at auditions where all the contestants sing one song and they string it together -- happy its gone.
John Park -- Look there are not that many Asians on this show and this guy is a great singer and very good looking. He was good and Shania totally fell for him - she couldn't stop gushing over him - he wasn't that good.
Paige Dechausse - Survived a severe asthma attack and sang Sam Cooke. She has got some serious soul but agreed that she did not put her personality. Shania really pushed for her to get in. We'll see if she can make it further.
Keith Semple -- sang Bryan Adams at the end with a Blake Lewis haircut and a guitar - made it in.
I liked Shania as a judge -- Let's go Girls!
By the way , probably the last week of Conan on the Tonight Show -- only watched his first episode, I am a Letterman fan if I watch, but I love his behavior in this situation. Taping this week for the monologues. Last night he got out of a loophole of not saying anything bad about NBC by singing something bad about NBC. "Morons, nothing but Morons..." THe nhe showed "classic" Tonight Show moments...from the last 7 months.
Enough for tonight my friends. Still finishing the second half of this week's 24 premiere, but looking like good start already. Remember, don't be ashamed of your obsessions...
Now, onto Idol -- last time I wrote you all was from Day 1 of auditions with Victoria Beckham guest judging. Day 2 was in Hotlanta with Mary J. Blige. Just wanted to call out some top auditions so later I can say I told you so. Keia Johnson, Miss Congeniality who sang the theme from Titanic, Jermaine Sellars with his rendition of Joan Osborne's What if God Was One of Us?, Mallorie Haley who sang Piece of My Heart -- LOVED her, she sounded just like Miranda Lambert. And then even Carmen who came in with her friend Lauren (who was so annoying) and sang a Kelly Clarkson song and Brian Walker the cop -- gorgeous voice. Of course my favorite of the night was General Larry Pratt writer of Pants on the Ground -- I think it was hilarious. Idol has always had weirdos that you cringe at and don't want to laugh at -- Gen. Pratt was just genuinely funny and at 62 he was obviously not trying to audition. BTW I felt really bad for Mary J when she got the giggles. Can you imagine walking into that audition room and seeing her as the judge? I mean as a vocalist, that would add like ten times the pressure.
Okay, moving on to tonight's episode in Chicago. LOVE that Shania is the guest judge. She is notoriously closed off - never makes appearances and especially since her stupid husband left her for her best friend, she has really been mum. Good for her, she is now with her best friend's husband and she is putting out a new album soon, I think.
Katelynn -- Her father just left her Mom, ouch! Singing Duffy. Good strong voice that is not yelly. She does need to energize, but good start.
Same cannot be said for Amy Lang who loves Ryan and fell on the floor and then boob boxed. I have never been so uncomfortable.
Charity -- with her hair cutting parents sang Summertime -- wow. Light, floaty voice hat felt fresh. I hope she doesn't go weird on us. She could be awesome.
Angela Martin -- I have never heard of so many problems -- sick child who had to have her child committed, then her father was killed when she made it to Hollywood Season 7, then she made it again Season 8 and had to appear in court for a traffic violation and missed the last day. Now she makes it through again. Fingers crossed nothing happens!
Just realized that this season they aren't doing that thing at auditions where all the contestants sing one song and they string it together -- happy its gone.
John Park -- Look there are not that many Asians on this show and this guy is a great singer and very good looking. He was good and Shania totally fell for him - she couldn't stop gushing over him - he wasn't that good.
Paige Dechausse - Survived a severe asthma attack and sang Sam Cooke. She has got some serious soul but agreed that she did not put her personality. Shania really pushed for her to get in. We'll see if she can make it further.
Keith Semple -- sang Bryan Adams at the end with a Blake Lewis haircut and a guitar - made it in.
I liked Shania as a judge -- Let's go Girls!
By the way , probably the last week of Conan on the Tonight Show -- only watched his first episode, I am a Letterman fan if I watch, but I love his behavior in this situation. Taping this week for the monologues. Last night he got out of a loophole of not saying anything bad about NBC by singing something bad about NBC. "Morons, nothing but Morons..." THe nhe showed "classic" Tonight Show moments...from the last 7 months.
Enough for tonight my friends. Still finishing the second half of this week's 24 premiere, but looking like good start already. Remember, don't be ashamed of your obsessions...
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Golden Globe blog action!
Well let's start at the very beginning, a very good place to start...
Ricky Gervais is hosting. He has had many stellar awards show appearances, so I was looking forward to this. He opened well although I really wish he had left out the male anatomy joke -- too soon. He had to go to the Steve Carell riff, one day there should be a youtube video combining all of their interactions. So funny. On to the awards!
Supporting Actress Film presented by Nicole Kidman which allowed me a glimpse of Keith. Nice Haiti speech and of course Geroge Clooney refuses to take credit for the telethon he is organizing for Haiti. Nominees are -- Penelope Cruz, Vera Farmiga, Anna Kendrick, Monique and Julianne Moore. I want Monique to win (although I loved Anna Kendrick) and she does. Nice speech about her husband who she knew at age 14 and she said, "one day we will both be stars" and he said "you first" I admit, tears came to my eyes.
Then Actress in a Comedy TV -- Toni Colette, Courtney Cox, Edie Falco, Tina Fey and Lea Michele. Would love to see Lea win and lots of times the Globes give a new show a surprise award, but will probably be Tina. Nopes, here is our Monk moment -- Toni Colette wins. Whatever. I'm sorry, but sometimes ratings need to count, and buzz too, but this show has neither.
Lauren Graham comes out to present Supporting Actor Television. I CANNOT WAIT FOR PARENTHOOD to start -- Now that Leno is out at 10, NBS is finally putting a show on at 10 and one is this show. It was supposed to star Maura Tierney who unfortunately got cancer and now stars Lauren Graham -- I am beyond excited to watch her. She gets to mix her Gilmore Girls Lorelai with the Bad Santa character, genius. Okay, nominees are -- Michael Emerson, Neil Patrick Harris, John Lithgow, William Hurt, Jeremy Piven. Obviously I want NEIL. Hate the combining of comedy and drama, but Piven won it a bunch of times, so I thought maybe...then no, Lithgow wins for Dexter (Showtime AGAIN). I'm sure he's good, don't care.
Paul McCartney comes out for Animated Film and guaranteed his quote about Animated Films being for kids and adults on drugs will be buzzing about tomorrow. He was good. Nominees are -- Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, Coraline, Fantastic Mr Fox, Princess and the Frog and Up. I haven't seen any of these but figured it is between Fox and Up -- Up wins, forward speech.
Kate Hudson comes out to present Nine and giggles - this girl is a floozy.
Felicity Huffman comes out to present the head of the Foreign Press Association and flubs every single line - this girl is drunk.
Actor TV Drama nominees are -- Simon Baker (love him, but no need for a nomination), Michael C Hall, Jon Hamm (love the beard Don Draper!), Hugh Laurie and Bill Paxton. Jon should win this year but Michael C Hall does. I'm not mad at that, and his co-stars were kind of crying and he was wearing the black knit cap so I think maybe he has cancer (pls tell me there is another reason for wearing that) so then I feel bad and don't complain that he won.
Actress TV Drama nominees are -- Glenn Close, January Jones, Julianna Margulies, Anna Paquin, Kyra Sedgwick. Considering I only watch Mad Men in this category (why no Big Love stars or Connie Britton from Friday Night Lights??????), I say go January (I forgive her for her SNL appearance because she was really good this season). Julianna Margulies wins and looks stunning and gets to give George Clooney a kiss as she walks up to the stage, and disses NBC by thanking CBS for believing in dramas at 10pm, so I am all for it.
Saw commercial for Extraordinary Measures with Harrison Ford, Brendan Fraser and Keri Russell -- I don't think they show Brendan talking which is smart. Of course Keri Russell makes me want to see this but I won't because Jan release means it sucks.
Skipping all Miniseries Made For TV categories because I rarely see any of them -- this year I saw Grey Gardens and it won.
Why did Tom Hanks diss Alec Baldwin in his intro to Julie & Julia? Low blow and not classy Mr Hanks.
Loved Ricky's intro to Colin Farrell -- all about how the Globes are not about discrimination against color or creed going into "One stereotype that I hate is that all Irishmen are just drunk swearing hellraisers. Please welcome Colin Farrell." Colin introduces nominees for Actress Comedy / Musical, the nominees are -- Sandra Bullock (The Proposal), Marion Cotillard, Julia Roberts (really for Duplicity?), Meryl Streep (It's Complicated and again for Julie & Julia). Should be Meryl for Julie & Julia and it is! She looks really elegant in her dress. "I want to change my name to T-Bone, T-Bone Streep" (she is hilarious). Nice speech.
Sexy at 60 star Helen Mirren comes out to introduce Precious. I don't even know what clip they can show of this film which is too shocking for TV.
Okay, so Sam Worthington and Zoe Saldana come out to intro a miniseries category. Let me use this opportunity to talk about Avatar. Just saw it on Friday and I WAS BLOWN AWAY. I did not read much about the movie because I didn't want to know the details. I knew it was James Cameron, I knew it cost a lot of money to make and by the time I saw it, I knew it had made a billion dollars. What I didn't know is the genius storyline that was created -- the language, the world of Pandora, the battle between Earth and this precious culture, the amazing love story and heartbreaking clash of cultures. The reason why Titanic is my favorite movie of all time time is not only because of the heart-wrenching storyline (I am a sucker for that) but because the movie takes you on a journey, an adventure that leaves you gasping for air. I didn't cry as much at Avatar (but I did fall in love with Sam Worthington almost as much as I did with Leo) but the journey that James Cameron took me on was just as worthy. It is a beautiful film and technologically? I have no idea how he created this world and the collision between it and reality but it took my breath away. I loved it.
Drew Barrymore wins for Grey Gardens -- genuine nice speech. How can she still be so nervous?
Cameron Diaz -- just saw preview for Knight and Day with Tom Cruise and it looks good! I have a new respect for Cameron after seeing and bawling to My Sister's Keeper. She did a solid job.
Jennifer Aniston and Gerard Butler come out for Screenplay / Motion Picture. She looks awesome -- best hair ever. And she is not perfect pretty, she is natural pretty. Like her in black. Lots of good black tonight. Nominees -- District 9, Hurt locker (I still have to see this), It's Complicated, Up in the Air, Inglourious Basterds. Winner is Up In the Air. Love this movie -- it has been my number 1 film of the year (letting Avatar sink in before finalizing these numbers). They may tie in my book because this is the "real" life perfect movie and Avatar is the "fantasy" life perfect movie. Love Jason's speech and shout out to George - people love George Clooney!
Jennifer Garner and Ashton Kutcher come out for Actor in TV Comedy -- Matthew Morrison, Thomas Jane, Steve Carrell, David Duchovny, Alec Baldwin (who isn't there!) Figured Alec would win and he does deserve to but very happy that Matthew got nominated.
Maggie Gyllenhaal makes a plea for Haitian relief. She is very serious.
Sophia Loren comes out - she needs to stop doing that. Presenting Foreign Language Film -- Baaria, Broken Embraces, The Maid, A Prophet, The White Ribbon Only have ever heard of Broken Embraces but The White Ribbon Wins.
TV Drama -- Mad Men, Dexter, House, Big Love, True Blood -- I'm all for Mad Men and it wins and Jon Hamm's girlfriend feels the need to smooch him several times. How funny is Amy Poehler? Her show is hysterical.
Taylor Lautner comes out in a shiny suit to present 500 Days of Summer - which is in my top 3 of the year. Love this movie.
Supp Actress TV -- Jane Adams, Rose Byrne, Jane Lynch, Janet McTier, Chloe Sevigny. Again, the mixing of comedy and drama and movies. Jane Lynch really should win, but Chloe was really fantastic this season so she wins. Can we talk about the amazing gown? She can totally go from street urchin look to glam goddess. Love the shout out to NY. I think she forgot to thank Bill Paxton.
Ricky's back and still funny. Halle Berry comes out and her breasts come out of dress (practically). Supporting Actor Movie nominees are -- Matt Damon, Woody Harrelson, Christopher Plummer, Stanley Tucci, Christoph Waltz. I only saw Inglorious from these and this guy was pretty great, so okay. This is going to be an interesting category come Oscars, it could go in many directions. Nice, genuine guy.
I think Leonardo DiCaprio just introduced James Cameron to Martin Scorcese. Not sure, but I think so.
Big choices -- I have to cancel DVR'ing Brothers & Sisters in order to keep 24 going and watch the Globes. I hope it is online somewhere!
Leo and Robert DeNiro tribute to Martin Scorcese (hasn't he already gotten this?) Can't wait to see Shutter Island - looks so good. Leo, looks so good too. Yummy. I love how he has become this kind of icon in the industry instead of just the kid from Titanic. Cool. Really the tribute is a montage of titles of Scorcese's movies? Lame Ending it with a full preview of Shutter Island? Lamer.
Schwarzenneger is at James Cameron's table. He is probably introducing the clip.
***Serious alert***I know there are a lot of calls for $$ to Haiti -- one of my friends is down there helping and she advises Red Cross -- you can specifically choose the Haitian relief cause. Go do it. redcross.org
Jodi Foster introduces The Hurt Locker -- still on my need to see list. Ricky's back. "I like a drink as much as the next man, unless the next man is Mel Gibson" GENIUS.
People are dying. Mel presents Director - he is a mess. Nominees are -- Kathryn Bigelow for Hurt locker (who used to be married to James Cameron, FYI), James Cameron for Avatar, Clint Eastwood for Invictus (really?), Jason Reitman for Up In the Air, Quentin Tarantino for Inglourious Bastards. James Cameron wins-- he is again King of the World. I can't tell if this room likes him. He needs a haircut. Good of him to recognize all the work that went into the movie -- and all of their spouses. He thanked his wife who he met on set of Titanic, FYI. I know a lot of random things about James Cameron.
Best TV Series Comedy nominees are -- 30 Rock, Entourage (WHY??????), Glee, Modern Family, The Office. I'm torn between Glee and Modern Family, but they haven't had full seasons and 30 Rock has and is of course genius. Glee WINS!!!! I am so psyched. It is so funny especially when you go back and hear all of the little lines that get blurted out. Wow Lea and that big dress, They all look so glam. - Quinn is gorgeous. Love that he said the show is about the importance of arts education -- so true.
Could they tout Avatar anymore? Preview of 30 Rock -- "Why do I have an Indian assistant if my computer's bad?" Alec Baldwin, so funny.
Cast of Hangover come out with Mike Tyson but without Zach to introduce the film - I'm already laughing.
Reese comes out in a great dress and with great hair to introduce best comedy / musical film (I've said this before, but a musical that is a comedy should be in comedy and a musical that is a drama should be in drama -- this comedy musical stuff is ridic). Nominees are -- The Hangover, 500 Days of Summer, It's Complicated, Julie & Julia, Nine. Great year for comedies this year. I am torn between The Hangover and 500 Days. Hangover wins!! Why do they keep showing Brendan Fraser! They are playing the song that Ed Helms sings in the movie -- so funny. Todd Phillips totally jabs at Harvey Weinstein. No question why this movie was hilarious. Could this lead to an Oscar nomination (now that 10 films can be nominated I say YES! now big money makers can compete with critical favorites).
I called it, Ahnold is presenting Avatar. Love his jokes, actually. He comments that he is presenting so that half the movie's proceeds go to California.
Ricky's back. He can't joke about Mickey Rourke. Presenting Actress Drama. Nominees are -- Emily Blunt, Sandra Bullock (Blindside), Helen Mirren, Carey Mulligan (so cute), Gabourey Sidibe. SANDRA BULLOCK wins. Wow. I thought she was great in this. And I like when an actress or actor doesn't have to be extreme to win. "To my husband, there's no surprise that my work got better when I met you because I never knew what it felt like for someone to have my back." Wow, this show is just killing it in time for V-day.
Actor comedy / musical -- Matt Damon, Robert Downey Jr, Joseph Gordon Levitt, Michael something, Daniel Day Lewis. Again mish mash of categories -- I would like to see Joseph Gordon Levitt win, but Robert Downey Jr does just because everyone loves him. I do not think it is for this film. Best acceptance speech of the night by saying he does not need to thank anyone, because he won this and the movie would have been killed by Avatar if he hadn't been in it. Love that he doesn't take it too seriously.
Kate Winslet looks gorgeous presenting Actor Drama -- Jeff Bridges, George Clooney, Colin Firth, Morgan Freeman, Tobey Maguire. I'm rooting for George but I haven't seen Crazy Heart yet. And Jeff wins. (Go Judy!) The room loves him. I still think George has a shot for the Oscar. Especially after he does the telethon. Nice speech from Jeff.
Julia Roberts comes out to present Best Drama in a short black dress, looks so fresh. Nominees are -- Avatar, The Hurt Locker, Inglourious Basterds, Precious, Up In the Air. Avatar wins and Jason Reitman is not happy. It is hard to not give a film like this the win. But I want to still share my love for Up In The Air -- SUCH a good movie. James Cameron is trying so hard to seem humble.
End note, Ricky. Let me just say that he was a brilliant host. Pretty fast paced night overall. Awards were spread out, some good surprises and some not so good. Hope you enjoyed the live blog! More later this week on Idol.
Remember, don't be ashamed of your obsessions (that's right Sam Worthington, I'm not ashamed)...
Ricky Gervais is hosting. He has had many stellar awards show appearances, so I was looking forward to this. He opened well although I really wish he had left out the male anatomy joke -- too soon. He had to go to the Steve Carell riff, one day there should be a youtube video combining all of their interactions. So funny. On to the awards!
Supporting Actress Film presented by Nicole Kidman which allowed me a glimpse of Keith. Nice Haiti speech and of course Geroge Clooney refuses to take credit for the telethon he is organizing for Haiti. Nominees are -- Penelope Cruz, Vera Farmiga, Anna Kendrick, Monique and Julianne Moore. I want Monique to win (although I loved Anna Kendrick) and she does. Nice speech about her husband who she knew at age 14 and she said, "one day we will both be stars" and he said "you first" I admit, tears came to my eyes.
Then Actress in a Comedy TV -- Toni Colette, Courtney Cox, Edie Falco, Tina Fey and Lea Michele. Would love to see Lea win and lots of times the Globes give a new show a surprise award, but will probably be Tina. Nopes, here is our Monk moment -- Toni Colette wins. Whatever. I'm sorry, but sometimes ratings need to count, and buzz too, but this show has neither.
Lauren Graham comes out to present Supporting Actor Television. I CANNOT WAIT FOR PARENTHOOD to start -- Now that Leno is out at 10, NBS is finally putting a show on at 10 and one is this show. It was supposed to star Maura Tierney who unfortunately got cancer and now stars Lauren Graham -- I am beyond excited to watch her. She gets to mix her Gilmore Girls Lorelai with the Bad Santa character, genius. Okay, nominees are -- Michael Emerson, Neil Patrick Harris, John Lithgow, William Hurt, Jeremy Piven. Obviously I want NEIL. Hate the combining of comedy and drama, but Piven won it a bunch of times, so I thought maybe...then no, Lithgow wins for Dexter (Showtime AGAIN). I'm sure he's good, don't care.
Paul McCartney comes out for Animated Film and guaranteed his quote about Animated Films being for kids and adults on drugs will be buzzing about tomorrow. He was good. Nominees are -- Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, Coraline, Fantastic Mr Fox, Princess and the Frog and Up. I haven't seen any of these but figured it is between Fox and Up -- Up wins, forward speech.
Kate Hudson comes out to present Nine and giggles - this girl is a floozy.
Felicity Huffman comes out to present the head of the Foreign Press Association and flubs every single line - this girl is drunk.
Actor TV Drama nominees are -- Simon Baker (love him, but no need for a nomination), Michael C Hall, Jon Hamm (love the beard Don Draper!), Hugh Laurie and Bill Paxton. Jon should win this year but Michael C Hall does. I'm not mad at that, and his co-stars were kind of crying and he was wearing the black knit cap so I think maybe he has cancer (pls tell me there is another reason for wearing that) so then I feel bad and don't complain that he won.
Actress TV Drama nominees are -- Glenn Close, January Jones, Julianna Margulies, Anna Paquin, Kyra Sedgwick. Considering I only watch Mad Men in this category (why no Big Love stars or Connie Britton from Friday Night Lights??????), I say go January (I forgive her for her SNL appearance because she was really good this season). Julianna Margulies wins and looks stunning and gets to give George Clooney a kiss as she walks up to the stage, and disses NBC by thanking CBS for believing in dramas at 10pm, so I am all for it.
Saw commercial for Extraordinary Measures with Harrison Ford, Brendan Fraser and Keri Russell -- I don't think they show Brendan talking which is smart. Of course Keri Russell makes me want to see this but I won't because Jan release means it sucks.
Skipping all Miniseries Made For TV categories because I rarely see any of them -- this year I saw Grey Gardens and it won.
Why did Tom Hanks diss Alec Baldwin in his intro to Julie & Julia? Low blow and not classy Mr Hanks.
Loved Ricky's intro to Colin Farrell -- all about how the Globes are not about discrimination against color or creed going into "One stereotype that I hate is that all Irishmen are just drunk swearing hellraisers. Please welcome Colin Farrell." Colin introduces nominees for Actress Comedy / Musical, the nominees are -- Sandra Bullock (The Proposal), Marion Cotillard, Julia Roberts (really for Duplicity?), Meryl Streep (It's Complicated and again for Julie & Julia). Should be Meryl for Julie & Julia and it is! She looks really elegant in her dress. "I want to change my name to T-Bone, T-Bone Streep" (she is hilarious). Nice speech.
Sexy at 60 star Helen Mirren comes out to introduce Precious. I don't even know what clip they can show of this film which is too shocking for TV.
Okay, so Sam Worthington and Zoe Saldana come out to intro a miniseries category. Let me use this opportunity to talk about Avatar. Just saw it on Friday and I WAS BLOWN AWAY. I did not read much about the movie because I didn't want to know the details. I knew it was James Cameron, I knew it cost a lot of money to make and by the time I saw it, I knew it had made a billion dollars. What I didn't know is the genius storyline that was created -- the language, the world of Pandora, the battle between Earth and this precious culture, the amazing love story and heartbreaking clash of cultures. The reason why Titanic is my favorite movie of all time time is not only because of the heart-wrenching storyline (I am a sucker for that) but because the movie takes you on a journey, an adventure that leaves you gasping for air. I didn't cry as much at Avatar (but I did fall in love with Sam Worthington almost as much as I did with Leo) but the journey that James Cameron took me on was just as worthy. It is a beautiful film and technologically? I have no idea how he created this world and the collision between it and reality but it took my breath away. I loved it.
Drew Barrymore wins for Grey Gardens -- genuine nice speech. How can she still be so nervous?
Cameron Diaz -- just saw preview for Knight and Day with Tom Cruise and it looks good! I have a new respect for Cameron after seeing and bawling to My Sister's Keeper. She did a solid job.
Jennifer Aniston and Gerard Butler come out for Screenplay / Motion Picture. She looks awesome -- best hair ever. And she is not perfect pretty, she is natural pretty. Like her in black. Lots of good black tonight. Nominees -- District 9, Hurt locker (I still have to see this), It's Complicated, Up in the Air, Inglourious Basterds. Winner is Up In the Air. Love this movie -- it has been my number 1 film of the year (letting Avatar sink in before finalizing these numbers). They may tie in my book because this is the "real" life perfect movie and Avatar is the "fantasy" life perfect movie. Love Jason's speech and shout out to George - people love George Clooney!
Jennifer Garner and Ashton Kutcher come out for Actor in TV Comedy -- Matthew Morrison, Thomas Jane, Steve Carrell, David Duchovny, Alec Baldwin (who isn't there!) Figured Alec would win and he does deserve to but very happy that Matthew got nominated.
Maggie Gyllenhaal makes a plea for Haitian relief. She is very serious.
Sophia Loren comes out - she needs to stop doing that. Presenting Foreign Language Film -- Baaria, Broken Embraces, The Maid, A Prophet, The White Ribbon Only have ever heard of Broken Embraces but The White Ribbon Wins.
TV Drama -- Mad Men, Dexter, House, Big Love, True Blood -- I'm all for Mad Men and it wins and Jon Hamm's girlfriend feels the need to smooch him several times. How funny is Amy Poehler? Her show is hysterical.
Taylor Lautner comes out in a shiny suit to present 500 Days of Summer - which is in my top 3 of the year. Love this movie.
Supp Actress TV -- Jane Adams, Rose Byrne, Jane Lynch, Janet McTier, Chloe Sevigny. Again, the mixing of comedy and drama and movies. Jane Lynch really should win, but Chloe was really fantastic this season so she wins. Can we talk about the amazing gown? She can totally go from street urchin look to glam goddess. Love the shout out to NY. I think she forgot to thank Bill Paxton.
Ricky's back and still funny. Halle Berry comes out and her breasts come out of dress (practically). Supporting Actor Movie nominees are -- Matt Damon, Woody Harrelson, Christopher Plummer, Stanley Tucci, Christoph Waltz. I only saw Inglorious from these and this guy was pretty great, so okay. This is going to be an interesting category come Oscars, it could go in many directions. Nice, genuine guy.
I think Leonardo DiCaprio just introduced James Cameron to Martin Scorcese. Not sure, but I think so.
Big choices -- I have to cancel DVR'ing Brothers & Sisters in order to keep 24 going and watch the Globes. I hope it is online somewhere!
Leo and Robert DeNiro tribute to Martin Scorcese (hasn't he already gotten this?) Can't wait to see Shutter Island - looks so good. Leo, looks so good too. Yummy. I love how he has become this kind of icon in the industry instead of just the kid from Titanic. Cool. Really the tribute is a montage of titles of Scorcese's movies? Lame Ending it with a full preview of Shutter Island? Lamer.
Schwarzenneger is at James Cameron's table. He is probably introducing the clip.
***Serious alert***I know there are a lot of calls for $$ to Haiti -- one of my friends is down there helping and she advises Red Cross -- you can specifically choose the Haitian relief cause. Go do it. redcross.org
Jodi Foster introduces The Hurt Locker -- still on my need to see list. Ricky's back. "I like a drink as much as the next man, unless the next man is Mel Gibson" GENIUS.
People are dying. Mel presents Director - he is a mess. Nominees are -- Kathryn Bigelow for Hurt locker (who used to be married to James Cameron, FYI), James Cameron for Avatar, Clint Eastwood for Invictus (really?), Jason Reitman for Up In the Air, Quentin Tarantino for Inglourious Bastards. James Cameron wins-- he is again King of the World. I can't tell if this room likes him. He needs a haircut. Good of him to recognize all the work that went into the movie -- and all of their spouses. He thanked his wife who he met on set of Titanic, FYI. I know a lot of random things about James Cameron.
Best TV Series Comedy nominees are -- 30 Rock, Entourage (WHY??????), Glee, Modern Family, The Office. I'm torn between Glee and Modern Family, but they haven't had full seasons and 30 Rock has and is of course genius. Glee WINS!!!! I am so psyched. It is so funny especially when you go back and hear all of the little lines that get blurted out. Wow Lea and that big dress, They all look so glam. - Quinn is gorgeous. Love that he said the show is about the importance of arts education -- so true.
Could they tout Avatar anymore? Preview of 30 Rock -- "Why do I have an Indian assistant if my computer's bad?" Alec Baldwin, so funny.
Cast of Hangover come out with Mike Tyson but without Zach to introduce the film - I'm already laughing.
Reese comes out in a great dress and with great hair to introduce best comedy / musical film (I've said this before, but a musical that is a comedy should be in comedy and a musical that is a drama should be in drama -- this comedy musical stuff is ridic). Nominees are -- The Hangover, 500 Days of Summer, It's Complicated, Julie & Julia, Nine. Great year for comedies this year. I am torn between The Hangover and 500 Days. Hangover wins!! Why do they keep showing Brendan Fraser! They are playing the song that Ed Helms sings in the movie -- so funny. Todd Phillips totally jabs at Harvey Weinstein. No question why this movie was hilarious. Could this lead to an Oscar nomination (now that 10 films can be nominated I say YES! now big money makers can compete with critical favorites).
I called it, Ahnold is presenting Avatar. Love his jokes, actually. He comments that he is presenting so that half the movie's proceeds go to California.
Ricky's back. He can't joke about Mickey Rourke. Presenting Actress Drama. Nominees are -- Emily Blunt, Sandra Bullock (Blindside), Helen Mirren, Carey Mulligan (so cute), Gabourey Sidibe. SANDRA BULLOCK wins. Wow. I thought she was great in this. And I like when an actress or actor doesn't have to be extreme to win. "To my husband, there's no surprise that my work got better when I met you because I never knew what it felt like for someone to have my back." Wow, this show is just killing it in time for V-day.
Actor comedy / musical -- Matt Damon, Robert Downey Jr, Joseph Gordon Levitt, Michael something, Daniel Day Lewis. Again mish mash of categories -- I would like to see Joseph Gordon Levitt win, but Robert Downey Jr does just because everyone loves him. I do not think it is for this film. Best acceptance speech of the night by saying he does not need to thank anyone, because he won this and the movie would have been killed by Avatar if he hadn't been in it. Love that he doesn't take it too seriously.
Kate Winslet looks gorgeous presenting Actor Drama -- Jeff Bridges, George Clooney, Colin Firth, Morgan Freeman, Tobey Maguire. I'm rooting for George but I haven't seen Crazy Heart yet. And Jeff wins. (Go Judy!) The room loves him. I still think George has a shot for the Oscar. Especially after he does the telethon. Nice speech from Jeff.
Julia Roberts comes out to present Best Drama in a short black dress, looks so fresh. Nominees are -- Avatar, The Hurt Locker, Inglourious Basterds, Precious, Up In the Air. Avatar wins and Jason Reitman is not happy. It is hard to not give a film like this the win. But I want to still share my love for Up In The Air -- SUCH a good movie. James Cameron is trying so hard to seem humble.
End note, Ricky. Let me just say that he was a brilliant host. Pretty fast paced night overall. Awards were spread out, some good surprises and some not so good. Hope you enjoyed the live blog! More later this week on Idol.
Remember, don't be ashamed of your obsessions (that's right Sam Worthington, I'm not ashamed)...
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
IDOL MANIA BEGINS
First things first. I know you all want to know my reaction to Simon's impending departure. I'm angry at him. I love this show and he is a big part of it. But someone wants to be master of the universe and get more and more power. Arrrgggh - I am not watching X-Factor, so go find your blogging commentary on that show somewhere else next year. Heard he is hiring Paula, so all of you who watch it can enjoy. Enough anger, for now, I am well at least I can enjoy this season with Simon and Randy and Kara and ELLEN before I have to worry about his replacement.
Oh and sidebar on another television scandal - how cool is Conan for telling NBC to shove it? If you haven't read his letter to the American People, please click on this link (and then come back!)
http://mediadecoder.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/01/12/conan-obrien-says-he-wont-do-tonight-show-following-leno/
Okay so on to tonight -- they dealt with what was the big news before Simon's news right off the bat -- the opening addressed Paula's departure and showed a clip of Ellen announcing her hosting appointment. Brought tears to my eyes right away. Something about last season was disappointing (the contestants?) and TV has been kind of lackluster since the end of Idol, so the return this season feels especially exciting to me. Oh Idol, I have missed you!
Weird that the opening moments of the show referred to Simon steering the ship multiple times, right? Of course now I am going to notice everything about Simon and his involvement in the show.
Guest judge Victoria Beckham -- I am a fan of hers because I have met her in person -- she is sweet, funny clever but the public rarely gets to see this. I was definitely more into her look on Day 2 and she didn't necessarily "make" the episode (point that the show is about the contestants more than the judges), but I liked that she was there.
So now onto some contestants that caught my eye --
Maddy - Hallelujah brother with Down Syndrome
Jess Wolfe - nerdy glasses looks older sang some folky soul a train is coming song
All was okay, then WOAH, HOLD YOUR HORSES, a trio of boys were singing Matt Nathanson in the waiting room -- pan to the guy in the black knit cap with jeans who is playing the guitar. Can we say hello Luke Shaffer? HOT, HOT, HOT - the little black cap, the perfect shirt and jeans, and the voice, it didn't matter much what he was saying, but the voice was GOOD. And his partner Benjamin Bright got through singing All My lovin - really good.
As always there are some terrible moments that stick out -- Andrew Fenlon who was annoyed by the wait. He sang House of the Rising Sun - Michael Buble'ish and actually okay, but so angry. Kara tried to be Simon by getting angry with him. I know she used a lot of repetitive phrasing last season, but the woman is talented -- she penned several of this year's top hits by Kelly Clarkson, Pink and Carrie, gotta give her some props.
Ashlee singing Alicia Keys - I didn't think she was THAT great -- she looked good and has it together, but...
Then there was Tyler - hippie, Al Green song -- will be a transformation candidate. Not my style, but he sang well and could be interesting.
Just saw the 24 commercial -- Amir Khan (major Bollywood actor who was the host in Slumdog) is on it? And it is in NY? And Jack is yelling? Already love it. God January is a good month for me.
Katie Stevens with the grandmother who has Alzheimer's - oh my god, so sad. She sang At Last - I know Kara is digging it. Needs a little makeover and will be gorgeous. I hope she can keep it up!!
Justin WIlliams -- he had cancer at age 20, but at age 27, he is ready to do big things on Idol -- great looking guy, vocal coach so he knows singing and he did that New Dawn, New Day song. I was blushing at how good looking he is.
Bosa -- nice soul singer who caused Victoria to fight with Simon. He really can get on everyone's nerves. Bosa may disappear, but we will see.
Did you notice hat there was much more of a slant on positive uplifting stories and less of the weirdos? Nice sign of good things to come.
Leah Laurenti -- insecure girl singing Blue Skies. Big voice, old quality, but she could be great. When Kara gets into something, she shakes her head, so funny.
Overall, excellent opening episode. Can't wait til tomorrow! I won't be blogging it, but you'll here from me soon!
Remember my friends, especially when your obsession is Idol, don't be ashamed of your obsessions and also remember, GTL!
Oh and sidebar on another television scandal - how cool is Conan for telling NBC to shove it? If you haven't read his letter to the American People, please click on this link (and then come back!)
http://mediadecoder.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/01/12/conan-obrien-says-he-wont-do-tonight-show-following-leno/
Okay so on to tonight -- they dealt with what was the big news before Simon's news right off the bat -- the opening addressed Paula's departure and showed a clip of Ellen announcing her hosting appointment. Brought tears to my eyes right away. Something about last season was disappointing (the contestants?) and TV has been kind of lackluster since the end of Idol, so the return this season feels especially exciting to me. Oh Idol, I have missed you!
Weird that the opening moments of the show referred to Simon steering the ship multiple times, right? Of course now I am going to notice everything about Simon and his involvement in the show.
Guest judge Victoria Beckham -- I am a fan of hers because I have met her in person -- she is sweet, funny clever but the public rarely gets to see this. I was definitely more into her look on Day 2 and she didn't necessarily "make" the episode (point that the show is about the contestants more than the judges), but I liked that she was there.
So now onto some contestants that caught my eye --
Maddy - Hallelujah brother with Down Syndrome
Jess Wolfe - nerdy glasses looks older sang some folky soul a train is coming song
All was okay, then WOAH, HOLD YOUR HORSES, a trio of boys were singing Matt Nathanson in the waiting room -- pan to the guy in the black knit cap with jeans who is playing the guitar. Can we say hello Luke Shaffer? HOT, HOT, HOT - the little black cap, the perfect shirt and jeans, and the voice, it didn't matter much what he was saying, but the voice was GOOD. And his partner Benjamin Bright got through singing All My lovin - really good.
As always there are some terrible moments that stick out -- Andrew Fenlon who was annoyed by the wait. He sang House of the Rising Sun - Michael Buble'ish and actually okay, but so angry. Kara tried to be Simon by getting angry with him. I know she used a lot of repetitive phrasing last season, but the woman is talented -- she penned several of this year's top hits by Kelly Clarkson, Pink and Carrie, gotta give her some props.
Ashlee singing Alicia Keys - I didn't think she was THAT great -- she looked good and has it together, but...
Then there was Tyler - hippie, Al Green song -- will be a transformation candidate. Not my style, but he sang well and could be interesting.
Just saw the 24 commercial -- Amir Khan (major Bollywood actor who was the host in Slumdog) is on it? And it is in NY? And Jack is yelling? Already love it. God January is a good month for me.
Katie Stevens with the grandmother who has Alzheimer's - oh my god, so sad. She sang At Last - I know Kara is digging it. Needs a little makeover and will be gorgeous. I hope she can keep it up!!
Justin WIlliams -- he had cancer at age 20, but at age 27, he is ready to do big things on Idol -- great looking guy, vocal coach so he knows singing and he did that New Dawn, New Day song. I was blushing at how good looking he is.
Bosa -- nice soul singer who caused Victoria to fight with Simon. He really can get on everyone's nerves. Bosa may disappear, but we will see.
Did you notice hat there was much more of a slant on positive uplifting stories and less of the weirdos? Nice sign of good things to come.
Leah Laurenti -- insecure girl singing Blue Skies. Big voice, old quality, but she could be great. When Kara gets into something, she shakes her head, so funny.
Overall, excellent opening episode. Can't wait til tomorrow! I won't be blogging it, but you'll here from me soon!
Remember my friends, especially when your obsession is Idol, don't be ashamed of your obsessions and also remember, GTL!
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
A tease to the return of more blogging!
Well, I know I haven't blogged much, but I have to say pop culture hasn't been feeding my soul recently. This is a little round up on topics to warm up my fingers for next week's return of AMERICAN IDOL. Not to mention the return shortly of Lost, 24, Friday Night Lights, so excited.
Some good TV has kept me busy this Fall -- Glee, Modern Family, Jersey Shore, The Office, Brothers & Sisters etc. but then there was the drought of holiday specials. Speaking of which, did anyone catch the Carrie Underwood Special? Tragic. Why do they try to give her a comedian personality? She doesn't have one! It was based on one of those old variety show type things. She is a huge singing sensation -- just let her sing. Happy she got engaged though, hope things work out, would be tragic for her wholesome image if it doesn't work.
Finally caught some movies. The two still topping my list? Up In the Air and 500 Days of Summer -- funny that neither are super melodramatic, just well told stories that are well acted and hit extremely relevant points. I have lots more to see, so all judgement is not final, but this is my vibe this year. Saw Precious -- now that is some drama. Extremely well acted (Monique is the scariest character ever), Precious is wonderful (but let's not assume she will be our next big star, this may be a one hit wonder), Mariah is surprisingly okay (but please no awards necessary). It has a very raw and troubling storyline, but really moved me. Also saw The Young Victoria -- I really like Emily Blunt, but the story doesn't have that much going on.
On DVD, finally saw Sunshine Cleaning and Julie and Julia. Once again, Emily Blunt is great in this -- I like her American more than British! And Amy Adams (who was in both) may be one of the most "enchanting" for lack of a better term actresses of her generation -- you automatically feel empathy for her, root for her, she just garners such attention on the screen. Of course Meryl blew her away because of the character, but Amy Adams is pretty terrific. Now let's talk Meryl. She really was fantastic as Julia Child. Bon Appetit! Love her energy, her charm, she just gave it her all. Still have to see It's Complicated, but I really like this fun Meryl. Need to erase Mamma Mia from my memory forever, however.
Will have more updates before the Awards season hits. But I will say that as usual the Golden Globe noms for TV are retarded. Will comment on that the night they air.
Music wise, I have really been enjoying my Glee Soundtrack - need to get the second one. Was not thrilled with Carrie Underwood, but have now found two gems of duets that I am a bit addicted to. Jay Z is my gym go to. And I really love my Miranda Lambert album - she is so good. Oh and going back to TV for a second, my favorite Holiday special appearances? Sugarland for sure. From Kennedy Center to Oprah to Christmas at the White House, they just killed it! They are definitely the "cool" country right now. New album due in 2010 - can't wait!
I think that's all for now, but remember, next Tuesday Idol returns -- will they survive without Paula -- I really hope there are some killer singers more girls would be great! And how will Ellen do? Will we really say good bye to Simon after this season? So much controversy and so much blogging to come.
so remember, don't be ashamed of your obsessions...
Some good TV has kept me busy this Fall -- Glee, Modern Family, Jersey Shore, The Office, Brothers & Sisters etc. but then there was the drought of holiday specials. Speaking of which, did anyone catch the Carrie Underwood Special? Tragic. Why do they try to give her a comedian personality? She doesn't have one! It was based on one of those old variety show type things. She is a huge singing sensation -- just let her sing. Happy she got engaged though, hope things work out, would be tragic for her wholesome image if it doesn't work.
Finally caught some movies. The two still topping my list? Up In the Air and 500 Days of Summer -- funny that neither are super melodramatic, just well told stories that are well acted and hit extremely relevant points. I have lots more to see, so all judgement is not final, but this is my vibe this year. Saw Precious -- now that is some drama. Extremely well acted (Monique is the scariest character ever), Precious is wonderful (but let's not assume she will be our next big star, this may be a one hit wonder), Mariah is surprisingly okay (but please no awards necessary). It has a very raw and troubling storyline, but really moved me. Also saw The Young Victoria -- I really like Emily Blunt, but the story doesn't have that much going on.
On DVD, finally saw Sunshine Cleaning and Julie and Julia. Once again, Emily Blunt is great in this -- I like her American more than British! And Amy Adams (who was in both) may be one of the most "enchanting" for lack of a better term actresses of her generation -- you automatically feel empathy for her, root for her, she just garners such attention on the screen. Of course Meryl blew her away because of the character, but Amy Adams is pretty terrific. Now let's talk Meryl. She really was fantastic as Julia Child. Bon Appetit! Love her energy, her charm, she just gave it her all. Still have to see It's Complicated, but I really like this fun Meryl. Need to erase Mamma Mia from my memory forever, however.
Will have more updates before the Awards season hits. But I will say that as usual the Golden Globe noms for TV are retarded. Will comment on that the night they air.
Music wise, I have really been enjoying my Glee Soundtrack - need to get the second one. Was not thrilled with Carrie Underwood, but have now found two gems of duets that I am a bit addicted to. Jay Z is my gym go to. And I really love my Miranda Lambert album - she is so good. Oh and going back to TV for a second, my favorite Holiday special appearances? Sugarland for sure. From Kennedy Center to Oprah to Christmas at the White House, they just killed it! They are definitely the "cool" country right now. New album due in 2010 - can't wait!
I think that's all for now, but remember, next Tuesday Idol returns -- will they survive without Paula -- I really hope there are some killer singers more girls would be great! And how will Ellen do? Will we really say good bye to Simon after this season? So much controversy and so much blogging to come.
so remember, don't be ashamed of your obsessions...
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