To capture the 60s, I wouldn't be surprised if Quentin Tarantino took time to study the decade and to look at some of the stuff he remembered as a kid. He hasn't made much in the 2010s, but to end it on a high note with Once Upon A Time In Hollywood, that says a lot. It's one of his first movies without the involvement of Harvey Weinstein and even with the run time, I didn't feel bored at all throughout it.
The movie is mainly a focus on two men in 1969 Hollywood. There's Leonardo DiCaprio's Rick Dalton, a washed up TV star who is looking to make a comeback. With him is Brad Pitt's Cliff Booth, his stunt double. It's a duo that has seen a lot of ups and downs. Some of it is explained through a few flashbacks in a couple incidents that have hurt them. Other parts is them trying to do some work and going through the day. Mostly, it's Rick's attempts to get back into the spotlight and trying to not be looked at as a has been. There's not much to Cliff early on, but he has his own share of screen time, especially when it kicks into the second half.
One of the small focuses is Sharon Tate, played by Margot Robbie. While not the point of the film, her and Roman Polanski serve as some critical plot points. The same can be said for the Manson cult. With Tate, this has to be the most perfect casting. Almost near identical. The portrayal is along the lines of her leading a normal life. Some partying, but mundane. Most of her scenes involve seeing her movie The Wrecking Crew and getting a picture in front of her poster. With the black sweater and boots, Robbie deserves to be a model.
Speaking of that, the 60s is crafted with phenomenal lighting and cinematography, part of it almost looks something from that decade in certain scenes. Add in the costumes and cars, it is like watching a fantasy come to life. The amount of digitally placed shots in Hollywood is amazing. I don't know how much of the 90 million dollar budget went into it, but they utilize it quite well with scenes where they place Rick in a few TV shows and movies. He seems anything but washed up and there is a bit of drama. While that's a case with Tarantino movies, it's a bit more emotional and not there for the sake of being there.
The only big issue I can see out of this is the run time, but it didn't bore me with over two and a half hours. It might for you. Beyond Rick, Cliff, and Sharon, the rest of the cast is excellent, especially getting a lot of television actors to play parts. Some narration is a nice touch. A little bit of humor sprinkled in at points throughout it. Tarantino went all out with this and it lands on its feet gracefully. He does restrain from resorting to his trademark violence, but knew when to use it. Add in one of the craziest endings I have ever seen, and Once Upon A Time In Hollywood is a cocktail that is worth seeing in the theater. In a sea of remakes, comic book movies, and sequels, being original isn't always bad. Check it out.
Score: 9.5 out of 10
Tuesday, July 30, 2019
Sunday, July 28, 2019
Modern Medieval
For over eight centuries, France has always had the Notre Dame Cathedral. It is one of the most remembered buildings and one of the longest lasting ones. The reason why I'm doing this blog on it is because of what happened back in April. As you may know, there was a massive fire that destroyed part of it and there is this push to get it back up and fully rebuilt within five years. I believe France has the 2024 Olympics, so the push could mean doing whatever they can.
One of the things I read a while back was whether to go with what the original architects in the 12th century did or to modernize it. It was one of the bigger fights. I think you have to go modern. To fix it with modern architecture would be a huge step up and keep it from having issues like it did a few months ago. It'd be nice to stick to how it was originally made, but it's a wooden building with tons of mortar and bricks. What they used back then may not be good in today's world. Add in heat waves going on right now, and the Cathedral could collapse at any moment.
There is still no official answer on what caused the fire. It could have been electrical. Could have been something from repairs. We don't know. But I'd be panicking if I'm France. Notre Dame is one of the most cherished buildings in the world and I doubt they are even close to figuring out what to do. But they better have an answer quick and soon. If they can't, then who knows if it will come crumbling down. There is a lot of history in that building. It would be a shame to see nothing down in the likelihood that it does collapse.
One of the things I read a while back was whether to go with what the original architects in the 12th century did or to modernize it. It was one of the bigger fights. I think you have to go modern. To fix it with modern architecture would be a huge step up and keep it from having issues like it did a few months ago. It'd be nice to stick to how it was originally made, but it's a wooden building with tons of mortar and bricks. What they used back then may not be good in today's world. Add in heat waves going on right now, and the Cathedral could collapse at any moment.
There is still no official answer on what caused the fire. It could have been electrical. Could have been something from repairs. We don't know. But I'd be panicking if I'm France. Notre Dame is one of the most cherished buildings in the world and I doubt they are even close to figuring out what to do. But they better have an answer quick and soon. If they can't, then who knows if it will come crumbling down. There is a lot of history in that building. It would be a shame to see nothing down in the likelihood that it does collapse.
Friday, July 26, 2019
Thursday, July 25, 2019
Butt Jets
You draft a quarterback high in the NFL draft, the expectation is either to start immediately, or get groomed to take over in a year or two. I call it desperation for the 2009 New York Jets when they got Mark Sanchez in the first round. With his retirement this week and heading into broadcasting, a lot of questions linger in what he could have done better.
It shouldn't be a surprise his first two years were his biggest moments when the Jets made the postseason. To beat San Diego in the 2009 season, knock off Indianapolis and New England in 2010. The New England game in Foxboro. A lot of it was that ground game, which was very strong and a smothering defense. But the decline came when Sanchez got better and was improving his stats and developing a bit better. His best year was 2011, throwing for 26 touchdowns and nearly 3500 yards. I'm not a Jet guy, but it was a step above Brett Favre and the injury prone Chad Pennington.
Of course, there's his regression in 2012, the year of the infamous butt fumble game on Thanksgiving. His year of 2013 being in injury and ousted from the Jets. The next year replacing Nick Foles in Philadelphia after he went down with injury. Both Sanchez and Foles shared similar stats, but it wasn't enough, even with 10 wins, to get into the postseason. Then there is bouncing around the last five years with various teams, usually with negative results whenever he was under center.
Unfortunately, guys that screw up will get remembered just as much as successful ones. Sanchez will never live down his butt fumble gaff. It's a shame, because what he was able to do his first two years shouldn't be forgotten. In that same breath, there leaves a lot to be desired. Who knows if the Jets still thought of him instead of Geno Smith. Maybe things could have changed for that team. I don't know. If you gave him the right offensive scheme and personnel, he could have thrived. Despite the four and four record, his numbers in Philly in 2014 are very good in yards, throwing for 2400.
Dysfunction is all I can say regarding wherever Sanchez went. There's a lot of things that you can say. It's all a what if thing on where he could have stood. He had chances and blew most of those opportunities. Maybe broadcasting will be a lot better, though not to the level of what Romo is doing.
It shouldn't be a surprise his first two years were his biggest moments when the Jets made the postseason. To beat San Diego in the 2009 season, knock off Indianapolis and New England in 2010. The New England game in Foxboro. A lot of it was that ground game, which was very strong and a smothering defense. But the decline came when Sanchez got better and was improving his stats and developing a bit better. His best year was 2011, throwing for 26 touchdowns and nearly 3500 yards. I'm not a Jet guy, but it was a step above Brett Favre and the injury prone Chad Pennington.
Of course, there's his regression in 2012, the year of the infamous butt fumble game on Thanksgiving. His year of 2013 being in injury and ousted from the Jets. The next year replacing Nick Foles in Philadelphia after he went down with injury. Both Sanchez and Foles shared similar stats, but it wasn't enough, even with 10 wins, to get into the postseason. Then there is bouncing around the last five years with various teams, usually with negative results whenever he was under center.
Unfortunately, guys that screw up will get remembered just as much as successful ones. Sanchez will never live down his butt fumble gaff. It's a shame, because what he was able to do his first two years shouldn't be forgotten. In that same breath, there leaves a lot to be desired. Who knows if the Jets still thought of him instead of Geno Smith. Maybe things could have changed for that team. I don't know. If you gave him the right offensive scheme and personnel, he could have thrived. Despite the four and four record, his numbers in Philly in 2014 are very good in yards, throwing for 2400.
Dysfunction is all I can say regarding wherever Sanchez went. There's a lot of things that you can say. It's all a what if thing on where he could have stood. He had chances and blew most of those opportunities. Maybe broadcasting will be a lot better, though not to the level of what Romo is doing.
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
What Is LatinAutor?
This is why YouTube is sometimes bothersome. There are a lot of people like me who do these videos and don't even get a percent the views that the big names get. Unfortunately, there is always these companies, real or fake, that come in and claim videos. This LatinAutor seems like an excuse to cash in on hot properties.
A case in point is going after a few of my videos of The Lion King video games. What I wonder is why? It can't be Disney doing this because if they had an issue with it, then my Aladdin Genesis videos would be hit, too. There have been a number of claims people online have said involving LatinAutor and it involves mainly music. Cover versions to be exact. Also, a couple video game related things, too.
Some of the other copyright stuff from them include Warner Chappell, which makes no sense. Warner Brothers doesn't own The Lion King and I can't see the original songwriters working with that group since Disney would have the upper hand over Warner. Disney may be stupid with certain things, but I wouldn't see them being that overprotective involving video games from 25 years ago. This is on the frauds, and it doesn't get fixed on YouTube. I've said it on other blogs involving copyright, but there isn't any big alternatives.
The lifeblood of YouTube is the middle tiered and low tiered channels. Not just the big named ones. But they need to protect the former just as much as the latter. However, I don't think that will ever happen. The only hope I can think of for others is for this to die down and the frauds at LatinAutor to disappear. That's what's happened to me the last six years. People making false claims and then ceasing to exist, making the claims disappear. My patience is a bit higher compared to others, but the need to fix issues is now, but as I said, they won't do anything.
A case in point is going after a few of my videos of The Lion King video games. What I wonder is why? It can't be Disney doing this because if they had an issue with it, then my Aladdin Genesis videos would be hit, too. There have been a number of claims people online have said involving LatinAutor and it involves mainly music. Cover versions to be exact. Also, a couple video game related things, too.
Some of the other copyright stuff from them include Warner Chappell, which makes no sense. Warner Brothers doesn't own The Lion King and I can't see the original songwriters working with that group since Disney would have the upper hand over Warner. Disney may be stupid with certain things, but I wouldn't see them being that overprotective involving video games from 25 years ago. This is on the frauds, and it doesn't get fixed on YouTube. I've said it on other blogs involving copyright, but there isn't any big alternatives.
The lifeblood of YouTube is the middle tiered and low tiered channels. Not just the big named ones. But they need to protect the former just as much as the latter. However, I don't think that will ever happen. The only hope I can think of for others is for this to die down and the frauds at LatinAutor to disappear. That's what's happened to me the last six years. People making false claims and then ceasing to exist, making the claims disappear. My patience is a bit higher compared to others, but the need to fix issues is now, but as I said, they won't do anything.
Tuesday, July 23, 2019
The Lion King 2019 Review
The 90s animated features from Disney are mostly loved. With The Lion King, it's either very close or at the top for many. I'm going to say that most of these live action remakes don't interest me. In fact, Aladdin was the first one I saw of what the company is doing. Lion King made me curious, especially with the shelling it is getting from critics. I don't know what they are looking for. An exact copy of the animated one, which turned 25 back in June? I think there's enough merits to make it about close, if not, equal with it's cartoon counterpart.
Unlike Aladdin, the plot for The Lion King is mainly intact. The many animals of Africa witness young Simba, the son of Mufasa and Sarabi. Only Scar is angry about his nephew as he would take over as king instead of himself. So he plots to find ways to kill Simba and Mufasa and the former has these many adventures, both good and bad. For the most part, they don't deviate from the animated film. There are a couple parts they removed, and some of it wasn't necessary to have. One thing I'll give credit is their ability to address a couple plot points that weren't seen in the original.
Another thing is that it is very lively. You don't just see the main three hyenas in their scenes. You see a clan of them an it makes for some intense scenes. Same with Timon and Pumbaa. They live in a world populated with many others who live with no worries. But the attempt to give every character a bit of screen time and their chance to shine in scenes is very nice. It is a bit light on comic relief, surprisingly. A nice thing is Zazu the dodo not being a victim of pain and not being a hostage. The original had a few dark moments, but it isn't too bad with this one. This shouldn't scare kids.
As far as voice acting, they got it nailed down well with the characters. Given the CGI with doing this stuff, it looks believable for the most part. A lot of the shots in the movie really capture the essence of Africa in the good and bad times. The songs are left mostly intact. Be Prepared only has a small minute of it, but it is good that they didn't completely omit it from the film as it is one of the original's most beloved songs despite the good and bad parts in it. It's not a long movie, but not short either. Ignoring trailers, this is a good hour 40, hour 45 before the credits are seen.
I don't know what critics were expecting. As far as The Lion King goes, you should be checking this out in the theater. As I said, there's enough to make it close or at leas equal with the original. However, I do think Disney should calm down a little bit with these live action remakes. Too many in a year and it will hurt them a lot more than they realize.
Score: 8 out of 10
Monday, July 22, 2019
Dan Le Moron Show
When you discuss stuff on a sports network, it should be sports. You don't talk about politics. Anybody will try anything to discuss the stuff that Trump does. Too bad idiots like Dan Le Batard wouldn't want to discuss what goes on in baseball, college sports for a network like ESPN.
All this involves is that "send her back" message from last week. What does it have to do with sports? Nothing. It would have meaning if a sports star had something to say on the matter, but it wasn't. A couple years ago, there was enough brewing controversy and ratings declines for ESPN. Part of it was their personalities and attempting to appeal to people who wanted more political themed stories involving sports. That's not what makes people watch the network.
You watch ESPN to see stats. You want to catch a glimpse of some highlights and blunders that occur in the sports that are covered. Of course, there's the broadcasts of whatever sport is current and college sports. Le Batard should understand that and with not doing his show today, it may mean his ties with the network are unwinding and could mean an exit from it.You want a political story, go find them on the four or five channels that cover political news. Get the pure politics off of stuff like ESPN. That may be the only way the channel recovers.
All this involves is that "send her back" message from last week. What does it have to do with sports? Nothing. It would have meaning if a sports star had something to say on the matter, but it wasn't. A couple years ago, there was enough brewing controversy and ratings declines for ESPN. Part of it was their personalities and attempting to appeal to people who wanted more political themed stories involving sports. That's not what makes people watch the network.
You watch ESPN to see stats. You want to catch a glimpse of some highlights and blunders that occur in the sports that are covered. Of course, there's the broadcasts of whatever sport is current and college sports. Le Batard should understand that and with not doing his show today, it may mean his ties with the network are unwinding and could mean an exit from it.You want a political story, go find them on the four or five channels that cover political news. Get the pure politics off of stuff like ESPN. That may be the only way the channel recovers.
Friday, July 19, 2019
Thursday, July 18, 2019
Turbografx Mini
There are a number of older systems I would love to get my hands on. Sega CD, Dreamcast, 3DO, and the point of this topic, the Turbografx-16. It didn't amount to anything in America because of Nintendo's illegal monopoly and Sega pulling ahead with better marketing, support, and library. But it did sport a decently unique set of titles. That's where the Mini makes a little bit of sense.
It's a little over 40 games with titles like Bonk, Dungeon Explorer and a number of arcade titles, originals, and shoot em ups (shmups). The price is set for 100 dollars, but whether there's additional costs, it wouldn't surprise me if there was. A lack of certain titles is always notable. I hear complaints about no Splatterhouse. One, it's a Namco game. Two, it's also a game that warrants an M rating. The system was finished before the ESRB formed, but a lot of the games would either be E or T rated. Having something like Splatterhouse would make it a prohibitive buy for kids.
There isn't much else to discuss. Maybe it is fitting as it turns 30 along with the Sega Genesis. Both Konami and Sega have their Minis set for this year. It's a sense of knowing that they can stand out amongst the other systems getting miniaturized. The Turbo should get quite a bit of respect and sell decently. A lot more knowledge is seen on it and it falls into the underrated areas of gaming.
I hope it does well, because this is a system that would get people into the Turbo.
Wednesday, July 17, 2019
32 Nods
This is a lot. Beating out NYPD Blue, a rookie show that got 27 Emmy nods in 1994. Game of Thrones seems like it was more entertaining for critics in its final season than it was with fans.
I'm not sure where this all comes from. Maybe it's the fact that it's ending at the perfect time where oversaturation doesn't come into play unlike The Walking Dead. Maybe there's a love for a number of other characters beyond the main cast. Who knows? But it seems likely that it will nab a lot in its final awards season.
It's not just Game of Thrones as HBO has a number of nominations. Veep could make history for its lead actress, Julia Louis-Dreyfus. Barry has a lot of nominations. Both shows have won a bit in their runs. The idea that the network could sweep and clean house in awards is not out of the realm of impossibility. And that's including a lot of Netflix and Amazon shows getting nods.
If anything, this will be the peak of HBO for Emmy nods and possibly wins. It's a high that won't be replicated anytime soon, but it will pave the way for other shows on other networks and streaming sites. And I say that as someone that doesn't watch HBO or that much streaming. Enjoy the high while it lasts because it will be tough to replace a few of those programs.
I'm not sure where this all comes from. Maybe it's the fact that it's ending at the perfect time where oversaturation doesn't come into play unlike The Walking Dead. Maybe there's a love for a number of other characters beyond the main cast. Who knows? But it seems likely that it will nab a lot in its final awards season.
It's not just Game of Thrones as HBO has a number of nominations. Veep could make history for its lead actress, Julia Louis-Dreyfus. Barry has a lot of nominations. Both shows have won a bit in their runs. The idea that the network could sweep and clean house in awards is not out of the realm of impossibility. And that's including a lot of Netflix and Amazon shows getting nods.
If anything, this will be the peak of HBO for Emmy nods and possibly wins. It's a high that won't be replicated anytime soon, but it will pave the way for other shows on other networks and streaming sites. And I say that as someone that doesn't watch HBO or that much streaming. Enjoy the high while it lasts because it will be tough to replace a few of those programs.
Monday, July 15, 2019
Geek Love Now, Forgettable Later
I can appreciate certain aspects of geek culture. It's nice to see it get appreciated compared to ones that had to suffer 30 years ago or earlier. We have a multitude of comic book related stuff, movies that non-geeks can enjoy. Television that incorporates geeky material. But are they memorable?
I'll say this for certain. A number of stuff we have seen in the last 10 to 12 years will not be remembered fondly. My main aim is the Marvel movies. A lot of people will not look at them fondly in 15 to 20 years. What I attribute it to is that they are making so many every year that a problem many look at is that they are all the same. Sure, there are a couple things different in each one, but it doesn't mean anything. They are low grade brain dead popcorn flicks that are enjoyed now, but will not hold up in 20 years compared to other comic book movies like 1989 Batman, the Raimi Spider-Man movies.
Certainly, there is love for The Walking Dead. I tired its first season and hated it. But I know people that are hardcore into it. But I do see the problem of it overstaying its welcome. I'm not sure how much it follows the comics, but the losing of important characters and being on for eight or nine seasons has hurt them a lot more than they realize. I'm no expert, but a zombie show can only take you so far.
There's other stuff. Nobody will remember The Big Bang Theory in 20 years. Anime shows are still underground to non-geeks, but it's not something to be afraid of. Gaming has been bigger with each passing year. But I think the love affair of geek culture will die off soon and still be appreciated, but not in that hardcore sense. I would love to see what the 2020s bring and whether it will be different compared to this last decade of geek culture.
Overall, the love will still be there. But holding up in certain aspects, not so much.
I'll say this for certain. A number of stuff we have seen in the last 10 to 12 years will not be remembered fondly. My main aim is the Marvel movies. A lot of people will not look at them fondly in 15 to 20 years. What I attribute it to is that they are making so many every year that a problem many look at is that they are all the same. Sure, there are a couple things different in each one, but it doesn't mean anything. They are low grade brain dead popcorn flicks that are enjoyed now, but will not hold up in 20 years compared to other comic book movies like 1989 Batman, the Raimi Spider-Man movies.
Certainly, there is love for The Walking Dead. I tired its first season and hated it. But I know people that are hardcore into it. But I do see the problem of it overstaying its welcome. I'm not sure how much it follows the comics, but the losing of important characters and being on for eight or nine seasons has hurt them a lot more than they realize. I'm no expert, but a zombie show can only take you so far.
There's other stuff. Nobody will remember The Big Bang Theory in 20 years. Anime shows are still underground to non-geeks, but it's not something to be afraid of. Gaming has been bigger with each passing year. But I think the love affair of geek culture will die off soon and still be appreciated, but not in that hardcore sense. I would love to see what the 2020s bring and whether it will be different compared to this last decade of geek culture.
Overall, the love will still be there. But holding up in certain aspects, not so much.
Sunday, July 14, 2019
Can't Move VHS
Until I was a teen, VHS was a common way to watch movies. The last time we really got tapes was right around 2003, maybe 04. Around that time, we got our first DVD player and a bit of movies on discs. After 05, VHS was an afterthought.
The reason I'm doing a blog on this is because of going to yard sales. More often than not, you will see people getting rid of their VHS tapes. About 99 percent of the time, they don't move. You see more go for DVD and Blu-Rays, but that has more to due with it being so common and the ability to play them on a lot more machines and computers. The thing with VHS is that they are simply to watch the movie and that's it. Being amazed with special features and lowered costs over time made the DVD a hot commodity.
A VCR can break down easily over time. Tapes can get worn out depending on how often you watch a film. You can't easily have a season's worth of shows on tape. Some movies required two tapes, though a few may have been for special features. In the waning days of VHS, some studios did try to include some stuff at the end of movies to keep people enticed. Some of the same things can happen to DVD and Blu-Ray players, but there are more to them then simply watching movies. Accessing the Internet, watching YouTube and other apps.
However, there are certain films you can't get on DVD and vice versa. But is it worth getting a VCR? That's up to you. And I do see a time where DVDs will be in the same shoes as VHS. And I see a lot of people struggling to sell them despite how cheap you can get them. It is what it is unfortunately. There might be a joy to watching something on tape, but it's a lot easier to have disc machines.
The reason I'm doing a blog on this is because of going to yard sales. More often than not, you will see people getting rid of their VHS tapes. About 99 percent of the time, they don't move. You see more go for DVD and Blu-Rays, but that has more to due with it being so common and the ability to play them on a lot more machines and computers. The thing with VHS is that they are simply to watch the movie and that's it. Being amazed with special features and lowered costs over time made the DVD a hot commodity.
A VCR can break down easily over time. Tapes can get worn out depending on how often you watch a film. You can't easily have a season's worth of shows on tape. Some movies required two tapes, though a few may have been for special features. In the waning days of VHS, some studios did try to include some stuff at the end of movies to keep people enticed. Some of the same things can happen to DVD and Blu-Ray players, but there are more to them then simply watching movies. Accessing the Internet, watching YouTube and other apps.
However, there are certain films you can't get on DVD and vice versa. But is it worth getting a VCR? That's up to you. And I do see a time where DVDs will be in the same shoes as VHS. And I see a lot of people struggling to sell them despite how cheap you can get them. It is what it is unfortunately. There might be a joy to watching something on tape, but it's a lot easier to have disc machines.
Friday, July 12, 2019
Thursday, July 11, 2019
Switch Lite... Could It?
Down the road, I do want a Nintendo Switch. I figured down the road, they would have a revision of the hardware and the past year or so has had stories regarding that. With the news regarding the Switch Lite, I'm not too sure how I feel about it.
I just looked at the design and it looks like a mix of the PSP, Game Gear, and the gamepad of the Wii U. Not necessarily a bad a thing, but it's going to be as the reports are saying a handheld only system. That would mean no docking station or any extra stuff to plug the system into a television or any of that. I do wonder what the numbers are and what skews into which part is favored. I'm guessing Nintendo thinks the portability should be a bigger emphasis. It also means the joycon controller is now hardwired into the system. I'm not sure if this will be a cost cutting measure or not, but who knows.
I would think the system would go for 200 or 250 dollars. It could be a little boost, but without knowing the reception outside of the hardcore gamers, it's hard to know whether people will bite. This should do decent, but how much people will actually play this revision, I don't know. But it is something that will be interesting come November and December.
My guess: Should do well, but it's a gutsy guess.
I just looked at the design and it looks like a mix of the PSP, Game Gear, and the gamepad of the Wii U. Not necessarily a bad a thing, but it's going to be as the reports are saying a handheld only system. That would mean no docking station or any extra stuff to plug the system into a television or any of that. I do wonder what the numbers are and what skews into which part is favored. I'm guessing Nintendo thinks the portability should be a bigger emphasis. It also means the joycon controller is now hardwired into the system. I'm not sure if this will be a cost cutting measure or not, but who knows.
I would think the system would go for 200 or 250 dollars. It could be a little boost, but without knowing the reception outside of the hardcore gamers, it's hard to know whether people will bite. This should do decent, but how much people will actually play this revision, I don't know. But it is something that will be interesting come November and December.
My guess: Should do well, but it's a gutsy guess.
Tuesday, July 9, 2019
Stop Crying, Women's Soccer!
I think there are some parts of equal pay that are necessary. I would love to see my best friend get paid quite a bit for being a teacher and support her family. She worked hard to get to where she was. Same with some family members of mine that are in healthcare. That's where I see women should be given equal opportunity in salary. Not the whiny brats of the US Women's Soccer Team.
In sports, lots of people complain about athletes getting overpaid. Typically, I agree. That Carson Wentz deal will be a huge bust if he doesn't stay healthy. It's also ridiculous a few baseball players are getting paid 30 plus million. Stephen Curry of the NBA is making 40 plus mil a year. How is that not overboard? But the thing with women's sports is that they don't draw squat. And it has nothing to do with them being women. Anytime someone uses that excuse, I just shake my head. Some are like that, but it's not as exaggerated as they make it out to be.
Does the Soccer team expect everyone to tune in and watch them? From what is seems like, yes. But you can't predict the damn future that you will make it to the Final and expect everyone to change their schedules around just because you're in it. And how many people actually give a shit about them? How many? Because it more than likely dies off after the Cup Final and you don't hear too much until the next Cup Final. Europe is a much bigger deal for soccer. Same with Africa. Now, there are female players that have very good talent. But without any big attendances and lack of interest, it's a hard sell to get a lot more money.
These FIFA tournaments for women is sill young. I'm sure at some point, more audiences will tune in as it keeps growing as it has since 1991. But there's bigger fish to fry in equal pay. This is my theory. I feel like any big women's leagues like the WNBA would crumble if they gave a few of their players huge contracts. A bunch of babies on a soccer team is a very low priority to me. I'd rather see other women professions get better pay and show their efforts. Teachers, scientists, health care, and a handful of other professions. If by any chance the soccer team does get their wish, they better expect a lot of bitching about being overpaid. Because a lot of players are not worth the salaries they ask for.
In sports, lots of people complain about athletes getting overpaid. Typically, I agree. That Carson Wentz deal will be a huge bust if he doesn't stay healthy. It's also ridiculous a few baseball players are getting paid 30 plus million. Stephen Curry of the NBA is making 40 plus mil a year. How is that not overboard? But the thing with women's sports is that they don't draw squat. And it has nothing to do with them being women. Anytime someone uses that excuse, I just shake my head. Some are like that, but it's not as exaggerated as they make it out to be.
Does the Soccer team expect everyone to tune in and watch them? From what is seems like, yes. But you can't predict the damn future that you will make it to the Final and expect everyone to change their schedules around just because you're in it. And how many people actually give a shit about them? How many? Because it more than likely dies off after the Cup Final and you don't hear too much until the next Cup Final. Europe is a much bigger deal for soccer. Same with Africa. Now, there are female players that have very good talent. But without any big attendances and lack of interest, it's a hard sell to get a lot more money.
These FIFA tournaments for women is sill young. I'm sure at some point, more audiences will tune in as it keeps growing as it has since 1991. But there's bigger fish to fry in equal pay. This is my theory. I feel like any big women's leagues like the WNBA would crumble if they gave a few of their players huge contracts. A bunch of babies on a soccer team is a very low priority to me. I'd rather see other women professions get better pay and show their efforts. Teachers, scientists, health care, and a handful of other professions. If by any chance the soccer team does get their wish, they better expect a lot of bitching about being overpaid. Because a lot of players are not worth the salaries they ask for.
Monday, July 8, 2019
NBA California 2019
If the Warriors stock hasn't dropped a lot, the Clippers and Lakers has risen.
California might be movies, the beach, and other things, but basketball is cherished. Getting Kawhi Leonard and Paul George to play for the Clippers helps them quite a bit. Even though they have been very good this decade, they can't get past the first or second round. I don't know if it's a lack of players for support or Doc Rivers inability to get further the last ten years, but they look poised to make a good run.
Plenty of new faces are going to the Lakers. Anthony Davis will make a huge impact in theory. There is also Demarcus Cousins and he can be a third guy to go to. Add in some other guys for support and this could be a team that likely goes back to the playoffs for the first time in about six, seven years. The Pacific Division could be lead with both teams and the Warriors. Sacramento will still struggle.
Keep your sights on whether Houston gets Russell Westbrook via trade. Most of the Western Conference are in contention to make an impact for the upcoming 2019-20 season. At least ten have a chance to make the postseason.
California might be movies, the beach, and other things, but basketball is cherished. Getting Kawhi Leonard and Paul George to play for the Clippers helps them quite a bit. Even though they have been very good this decade, they can't get past the first or second round. I don't know if it's a lack of players for support or Doc Rivers inability to get further the last ten years, but they look poised to make a good run.
Plenty of new faces are going to the Lakers. Anthony Davis will make a huge impact in theory. There is also Demarcus Cousins and he can be a third guy to go to. Add in some other guys for support and this could be a team that likely goes back to the playoffs for the first time in about six, seven years. The Pacific Division could be lead with both teams and the Warriors. Sacramento will still struggle.
Keep your sights on whether Houston gets Russell Westbrook via trade. Most of the Western Conference are in contention to make an impact for the upcoming 2019-20 season. At least ten have a chance to make the postseason.
Saturday, July 6, 2019
Afraid of The Revivals?
Being born in 1992, I didn't grow up on early 90s Nickelodeon. To be honest, my memory is a little flaky at when I first started watching the channel, which was roughly around 1996 or 97. At the earliest, 96 at least. But, I do have some appreciation for some of their stuff from the first half of that decade.
We don't see much sketch comedy anymore in the style of Saturday Night Live. Back in April, All That turned 25 and recently got revived with original member Kenan Thompson as a producer. It was a staple for Nickelodeon and I remember a little bit seeing it in the late part of the 90s and when it was brought back around 2001-02. I think it's important to have. They are not only appealing to new audiences, but some of the older ones. Obviously, Kenan as a producer, but bringing back some of the old cast members to pop up in a sketch every once in a while. You get nostalgia for the old and memories for the new. In the midst of that, also there is that Are You Afraid of the Dark? revival.
I vaguely remember Afraid of the Dark, but I did have it on at times. This was back when you could try horror on a kids network and it had a decent sized run beginning in 1990. Basically, horror stories similar what audiences watched back in the 50s and 60s. There is a revival set for October, but I would have a bit of concern. Not so much the show, but how audiences will react. There has to be a perfect balance between being entertaining for kids, but also providing some scares. But it is coming in at a time with horror movies being the trendy thing and actually doing well in theaters and critics loving them. Who knows where this will land.
I do have my concerns about the Rocko's Modern Life movie. That was supposed to air last year and nothing has materialized. Speculation on it airing this year is there, but will it is the question. There are other projects Nickelodeon has in mind. You hear plenty of things. There are plans for Rugrats for both the small and big screen. A movie in the fall next year. Also one that could be revived is the cult hit, Invader Zim. Nickelodeon knows what their hits are. It's only a matter of when they will bring them back.
I think these revivals or attempted ones at least will stir up a lot of memories, good and bad. More power if they can stick to newer audiences. That being said, it shouldn't be used as a crutch as there should be some original shows in the mix, too. But, a few of these projects should be vital and just as important. Move over, SpongeBob. The 90s is coming back... maybe.
Friday, July 5, 2019
Tuesday, July 2, 2019
Toy Story 4 Review
I have been a huge fan of the Toy Story series since 1995/96. I view the first as the best of Pixar's work and the sequels to be fantastic. Was it necessary to have a fourth movie? No, but if done right, it can still hang with the best for greatest franchises, and it does. They hit all the right spots and it's more original without relying on a ton of repeated gags.
Woody and the gang belong to little Bonnie Anderson, following what happened at the end of 3. She now attends school and the cowboy toy secretly helps her with creating a new toy, Forky. The Andersons go on vacation and the spork jumps out the window of the family's RV. So now, it's a race to get Forky back to Bonnie or else things won't be the same when heading back to school. As always, it's becomes an adventure and encountering all sorts of other toys in the process.
This is mainly a Woody movie. You don't see too much of Buzz Lightyear and a lot of the other toys, though Buzz does get his share of screentime. The other toys, they have a few moments, especially towards the end. You will be laughing hard at a few scenes. Returning for the first time since the second film, we get to see Bo Peep and her sheep. She has a lot of scenes for this film and it's not purely a romantic angle. They turned her into an adventurous toy that does things her way and can handle a lot of stuff. One thing they do address is her absence in 3 and what happened to her. Honestly, she was one of the highlights for the movie.
Regarding new toys, there is Duke Caboom. This is the summer of Keanu Reeves, and despite the small amount of scenes, this was a great and funny toy. Even funnier are Ducky and Bunny, played by Key and Peele, Keegan Michael-Key and Jordan Peele. Though their humor is a bit more adult oriented, to entertain kids with these characters is a surprise and its effective. They actually provide some of the adult type humor that sneaks up in Pixar films. Then there is Gabby Gabby, who is kind of a villain, but not in the way of like a Sid or Lotso or even Stinky Pete.
That's the thing, really. There's nothing really evil in the movie. It's not a bad thing and it's refreshing for a kids film. Not much anger, either. Maybe one or two scary parts, but not to the level of 3. As far as CGI goes, it's amazing the improvements that has been made since 1995 with the original. Little details make it very noticeable and more real every year. And the cast, as usual, is phenomenal.
They do reuse quite a bit of Randy Newman's scores from the trilogy. Normally, it's a bad thing, but it's not overused, and they use it in the right spots. The only thing I'll without spoiling is that the ending will surprise you. Whether or not it will make you cry, I don't know. But what I can tell you is that this is a movie you should be seeing in the theater. This is a franchise that has stood the test of time, and this fourth one will for a very long time. Probably the best movie of 2019.
Score: 10 out of 10
Woody and the gang belong to little Bonnie Anderson, following what happened at the end of 3. She now attends school and the cowboy toy secretly helps her with creating a new toy, Forky. The Andersons go on vacation and the spork jumps out the window of the family's RV. So now, it's a race to get Forky back to Bonnie or else things won't be the same when heading back to school. As always, it's becomes an adventure and encountering all sorts of other toys in the process.
This is mainly a Woody movie. You don't see too much of Buzz Lightyear and a lot of the other toys, though Buzz does get his share of screentime. The other toys, they have a few moments, especially towards the end. You will be laughing hard at a few scenes. Returning for the first time since the second film, we get to see Bo Peep and her sheep. She has a lot of scenes for this film and it's not purely a romantic angle. They turned her into an adventurous toy that does things her way and can handle a lot of stuff. One thing they do address is her absence in 3 and what happened to her. Honestly, she was one of the highlights for the movie.
Regarding new toys, there is Duke Caboom. This is the summer of Keanu Reeves, and despite the small amount of scenes, this was a great and funny toy. Even funnier are Ducky and Bunny, played by Key and Peele, Keegan Michael-Key and Jordan Peele. Though their humor is a bit more adult oriented, to entertain kids with these characters is a surprise and its effective. They actually provide some of the adult type humor that sneaks up in Pixar films. Then there is Gabby Gabby, who is kind of a villain, but not in the way of like a Sid or Lotso or even Stinky Pete.
That's the thing, really. There's nothing really evil in the movie. It's not a bad thing and it's refreshing for a kids film. Not much anger, either. Maybe one or two scary parts, but not to the level of 3. As far as CGI goes, it's amazing the improvements that has been made since 1995 with the original. Little details make it very noticeable and more real every year. And the cast, as usual, is phenomenal.
They do reuse quite a bit of Randy Newman's scores from the trilogy. Normally, it's a bad thing, but it's not overused, and they use it in the right spots. The only thing I'll without spoiling is that the ending will surprise you. Whether or not it will make you cry, I don't know. But what I can tell you is that this is a movie you should be seeing in the theater. This is a franchise that has stood the test of time, and this fourth one will for a very long time. Probably the best movie of 2019.
Score: 10 out of 10
The Secret Life of Pets 2 Review
Under normal circumstances, I wouldn't have seen it in theaters, but this was more so for my sister and niece. I've seen bits and pieces of the first Pets film and I thought it was good. Kind of hard to think that there would be a second one. Like most movies, it's not as good as the first, but it holds its own quite a bit. What I like is similar to Seinfeld in that there are multiple stories that connect together in the end.
Dogs Max and Duke enjoy life with their owner, Katie. Things change within a few years as she meets and marries a guy, Chuck. They have a child and it becomes a stress induced life now for Max. Not from being annoyed by baby Liam, but making sure things are okay. The family decides a vacation to Chuck's uncle's farm for a few days before Liam goes to preschool and it also serves as a series of lessons for Max about life as a whole, learning from Rooster, the farm's dog.
As far as other stories, you wouldn't think of them as big deals, but they are. A dog friend of Max and Duke, Gidget, is tasked with keeping eye on Max's favorite toy, and you can guess what happens. Then there is Snowball the rabbit. His owner makes him a superhero and tries to be an actual one when a dog comes to him about saving a tiger from the circus. That might be the funniest story of the trio and it all comes together in the end with the tiger story being the main thing.
It's amazing the amount of people they got to do the movie and not require a 200 million dollar budget. But they all put on solid performances. I won't say it's a total gut buster, but you can at least smile at some of the antics that these animals go through. Visually, it's beautiful and even a little 2D type animation for a scene or two is a nice bonus.
This is a pretty short movie, clocking at under an hour and a half, but you'll be there longer because of the trailers before the film. There's not much I can complain about. The only things I can think of is the obnoxious aspects of Snowball in a couple scenes, but it's not going to hurt the movie. I do think this could have worked as a TV show and serve as a pilot and a couple of additional episodes to begin. But I would try and see it before it's taken out of theaters. It's a nice little film that is a good alternative to other kids films.
Score: 7.5 out of 10
Dogs Max and Duke enjoy life with their owner, Katie. Things change within a few years as she meets and marries a guy, Chuck. They have a child and it becomes a stress induced life now for Max. Not from being annoyed by baby Liam, but making sure things are okay. The family decides a vacation to Chuck's uncle's farm for a few days before Liam goes to preschool and it also serves as a series of lessons for Max about life as a whole, learning from Rooster, the farm's dog.
As far as other stories, you wouldn't think of them as big deals, but they are. A dog friend of Max and Duke, Gidget, is tasked with keeping eye on Max's favorite toy, and you can guess what happens. Then there is Snowball the rabbit. His owner makes him a superhero and tries to be an actual one when a dog comes to him about saving a tiger from the circus. That might be the funniest story of the trio and it all comes together in the end with the tiger story being the main thing.
It's amazing the amount of people they got to do the movie and not require a 200 million dollar budget. But they all put on solid performances. I won't say it's a total gut buster, but you can at least smile at some of the antics that these animals go through. Visually, it's beautiful and even a little 2D type animation for a scene or two is a nice bonus.
This is a pretty short movie, clocking at under an hour and a half, but you'll be there longer because of the trailers before the film. There's not much I can complain about. The only things I can think of is the obnoxious aspects of Snowball in a couple scenes, but it's not going to hurt the movie. I do think this could have worked as a TV show and serve as a pilot and a couple of additional episodes to begin. But I would try and see it before it's taken out of theaters. It's a nice little film that is a good alternative to other kids films.
Score: 7.5 out of 10
Monday, July 1, 2019
Brooklyn Better Than Manhattan
If the trades from this weekend were a sign for New York City, it means one thing. The Brooklyn Nets are a team that has a lot more going than the lowly New York Knicks. And this comes after a time in march where Knicks owner James Dolan was looking to make a splash in free agency.
The Nets are going to have Kyrie Irving, Kevin Durant, and DeAndre Jordan. That alone could make them advance in the playoffs in theory. For the Knicks, they got some scraps. Taj Gibson, Julius Randle, Bobby Portis, and Reggie Bullock. Not horrible, but anywhere what I think fans and the organization envisioned. What I see is a problem with the culture of the Knicks and what the Nets avoid.
For one thing, the Nets don't have huge issues with the press. It's a series of hoops to go through and red tape just to talk to Knicks players and staff. Public relations is a nightmare at Madison Square Garden. You can thank jackass Jonathan Supranowitz for not wanting to hear any negativity and having the public relations crew not want to hear criticism. Dolan hates criticism. That's what happens when you own a team that has been horrible for roughly 20 years and the owner does nothing about it.
There's a lot more that I can say, but the Nets are nowhere to the level of dysfunction compared to the Knicks. The players they got are capable of a good five to seven year run if they can all stay healthy and play on a high level. The borough of Brooklyn may just be superior to Manhattan with its basketball. But it's a wait and see situation.
The Nets are going to have Kyrie Irving, Kevin Durant, and DeAndre Jordan. That alone could make them advance in the playoffs in theory. For the Knicks, they got some scraps. Taj Gibson, Julius Randle, Bobby Portis, and Reggie Bullock. Not horrible, but anywhere what I think fans and the organization envisioned. What I see is a problem with the culture of the Knicks and what the Nets avoid.
For one thing, the Nets don't have huge issues with the press. It's a series of hoops to go through and red tape just to talk to Knicks players and staff. Public relations is a nightmare at Madison Square Garden. You can thank jackass Jonathan Supranowitz for not wanting to hear any negativity and having the public relations crew not want to hear criticism. Dolan hates criticism. That's what happens when you own a team that has been horrible for roughly 20 years and the owner does nothing about it.
There's a lot more that I can say, but the Nets are nowhere to the level of dysfunction compared to the Knicks. The players they got are capable of a good five to seven year run if they can all stay healthy and play on a high level. The borough of Brooklyn may just be superior to Manhattan with its basketball. But it's a wait and see situation.
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