Page copy protected against web site content infringement by Copyscape Reel Reviews And Other Works: 2009

25 December 2009

Sherlock Holmes

Intriguing And Energetic.

Nineteenth Century London, a game is afoot. Sherlock Holmes and his long-time partner, Dr. Watson, are on the verge of altering, if not ending, their association. But, personal matters are untended when their final case together is unexpectedly reopened, calling into question the reputations and integrity of Holmes and Watson. With the return of Irene Adler, the duo is thrust into a world of trouble, beset by adversaries of substance and shadow. Murder, assassination, corruption, revolution, espionage and theft confront the great detectives... and it may be too much to survive.

Challenging the known characterization of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, this film is written with an eye toward action not unlike swashbucklers who chase Nazis and Mummies. But set some three or four decades before such adventures were ‘common’ and using a character so well known for intellectual rather than physical resolutions, some viewers may take exception to this piece of cinema. While the direction and set may seem a bit dull, the story and performances are certainly exciting.

B / PG
Starring: Robert Downey, Jr; Jude Law; and, Mark Strong
Featuring: Rachel McAdams and Eddie Marsan
With: Kelly Reilly
Writers: Michael Robert Johnson; Simon Kinberg; and, Tony Peckham
Director: Guy Ritchie
Reel Reviews by Josef

Avatar

   A Stunning, Remarkable, Overwhelming Achievement!

Across the universe, on a lush green alien world the interests of science and commerce collide. While scientists hope to explore and learn, a conglomerate is seeking to acquire a precious element. The business of that acquisition may have a diplomatic solution, offering the native, primitive, people education, medicine and other advancements in exchange for their cooperation. Should diplomacy fail, a corporate military is waiting... but life on Pandora has many deadly secrets and an army of it’s own!

Seen in IMAX 3D, this film is almost overpowering – visually. The story here is decently written, only slightly predictable. It is the direction, incorporating vast CGI with live action in such a manner one may forget nothing on Pandora is real. Even so, the performances seem a bit weak, becoming lost amongst the wondrous CGI characterizations and sets.

B / PG2

Starring: Sam Worthington; Zoe Saldana; Sigourney Weaver; Stephen Lang; and, Michelle Rodriguez
Featuring: Giovanni Ribisi; Joel David Moore; and, CCH Pounder
With: Wes Studi; Laz Alonso; and, Dileep Rao
Director and Writer: James Cameron


Reel Reviews by Josef

27 October 2009

On The Air 2009


Jewel “Lullaby” (2009): Sweet! Something different but well fit, poetic intimacy. New tunes, familiar tunes, all sung with that angelic voice. You may not fall asleep listening to it but you’ll certainly find it easier to settle down after a busy, stressed, even lonely, day. A

“Yankee Doodle Dandy” MPS (2002): Hoorah! This is a special edition motion picture soundtrack, from one of my Most Favorite [Historic] Films. The tracks are taken, re-engineered, directly from the film. In addition to the numbers heard in the film, featured on this album are out-takes, interviews, auditions, rehearsals and a few numbers which were recorded for but cut from the film. A

“Sweeney Todd [: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street]” MPS (2007): Excellent! This motion picture soundtrack created in me a brand new fondness for the film! I now count the film as one of my Most Favorite Films! In parts the tracks are a bit mis-engineered, leaving the vocals difficult to hear. Still the sheer madness of the subject matter and the quirky delight of the lyrics is a shining joy. A

Lucinda Williams “Sweet Old World” (1992): Wonderful! Brother Wease introduced me to this talented singer-songwriter with an on-air recommendation and free radio play. An old soul with a weathered voice and hard sound, this album is one of her earliest and it did not disappoint. I look forward to listening to more of this talent. B

Melissa Etheridge “Yes, I Am” (1993): Cool! One of her most revealing albums. This lady’s sound is wonderful, emoting pain and pleasure with such honesty, no ear could deny it. B

Joan Osborne “Little Wild One” (2008): Wild! This album is further proof of a talented musical artist’s perseverance. While the public at large may not consider her a musical star and few radio stations play her tunes, this lady has never disappointed a CD buyer or a venue. B

Sweeney Todd [: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street] Original Broadway Cast Soundtrack (1979): Included with this special edition CD is the entire libretto and a [formatted-to-size] complete playbill. These tracks seem to have been recorded live-on-stage; unfortunately, these recordings either weren’t re-engineered or were poorly re-engineered from the original source; so, this CD can be difficult to enjoy. Still, if you turn the volume up and lend a careful ear to the sound [or a quick eye to the libretto] you’ll get swept away by the tale. C

Lucinda Williams “Live At The Fillmore” (2005): Wow! The only thing that could have made this double-disc set better would be attending the show in person. A

Celtic Woman “A New Journey” (2006): Nice! The ladies come together in joyous harmony and musical celebration. With this album we say hello to two new woman and farewell to one other, changing the roster hasn’t changed the talent. Many of the tracks on this album are familiar but some are presented for the first time and all are sheer wonder. B

Reel Reviews by Josef
11 May 2009

09 October 2009

Keep Radio Free


I urge you to oppose the “Performance Rights Act”.

This legislation (H.R. 848/S. 379) would harm local free radio by imposing an unreasonable fee on local radio stations, undermining their ability to present news, information and music.

Free "over-the-air" radio has been and should continue to be a vital communication and entertainment staple in the United States. Many people rely on radio for up-to-the-minute local news and weather. In addition, free radio is a viable venue for political awareness and community outreach. Plus, in times of great emergency people tune first to their radio!

If the 'Performance Rights Act' is passed, We The People lose the integrity of one of our oldest cultural staples.

For generations, Americans have loved listening to their favorite radio station. Radio is more than music, it is a means by which ideas and cultures are shared without regard to geography or politics or price of admission. But now, some major record companies want local radio stations to pay for the music provided to listeners.

They are spending millions lobbying Congress to pass legislation that would establish a performance tax for music played over the radio. These bills, would devastate local radio stations across the country. Having to pay for the right to play music will reduce the availability of over-the-air music and inhibit station formats. More, the record companies would lose a valuable source of promotion – their shooting themselves in the foot!

If the performance tax is signed into law, it will put at risk an industry employing almost 106,000 people and generating more than $6 billion for communities through free air-time for Public Service Announcements, charitable contributions and disaster relief efforts.

As playing music would become a major business expense, stations will be forced to choose economic certainty over economic potential, established artists over emerging talent. As a result, radio listeners and advertisers will be short-changed!

If the federal government imposed a performance tax or “Listener’s Tax,” there would no fair way to determine the expense.

For many decades, local radio has helped the music of unknown artists reach our ears, launching the careers of everyone from Elvis and Johnny to U2 and Britney Spears. More importantly, radio has a critical role in times of danger and disaster, informing a concerned populace. And, radio is a valued source of community outreach, supporting neighborhoods, charities and issues of interest.

Certain record companies want all that to change and they want us, the listeners, to pay the bill! Local radio stations already compensate songwriters for the use of their music. Stations provide billions of dollars in free promotion. And, they pay a fee to stream their programming over the Internet. Still, these record companies want more!

Across the nation, radio stations are struggling to stay afloat in a worsening economic climate. Billions of dollars and hundreds of thousands of jobs are being threatened to sate the insatiable greed of certain record companies.

Free Radio is a coalition of people and organizations whose mission is to keep radio and other businesses that play recorded music strong for communities across the nation by opposing a performance tax.

The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and certain record companies are behind a proposal to impose a performance tax. Such a tax would first be applied to radio stations but in a short-time it would also be applied to restaurants; retail stores; and, any other establishments or venues where recorded music is played!

They claim radio stations and other venues playing recorded music are getting a free ride but that is simply untrue! The recording industry has publicly stated it has benefitted from more than 70 years of free promotion over radio. And, they seem to be ignoring the compensatory fees already imposed upon radio stations. Much of the proposed revenue would not reach the recording artists and, because most (nearly 75%) of the record companies in the United States are foreign owned, that revenue won’t fuel domestic economy or generate tax revenue!

The record companies claim there is little need for radio in this digital age. They believe their product shouldn’t be provided via a medium consumers do not support. What they mean is, today’s music buyers aren’t purchasing CDs and they aren’t tuning in to the radio for the latest or newest tune. Today’s music enthusiast is scouring the Internet for product. Some of that assessment is quite correct; however, what the record companies aren’t revealing is they failed to prepare for the surge in digital media. They weren’t prepared for the demand of the downloading consumer, turning away from the inconvenient and inefficient CD.

And, they are not considering where today’s music buyer will first hear a complete tune – that’s right, on the radio baby! They hear it, they like it, they tag it, they buy it!

Radio stations across the country have been making their way toward digital, high definition and Internet broadcasting for several years. Station owners, program directors and musical artists have been urging record companies to move away from CDs and “approved release” of tracks for many years.

But, the record companies failed to heed that counsel; now, the ground is breaking under them – and they want us to pay for it!

Not everyone recording music and producing records is supporting the lobbying effort: Mark Wright, Senior Vice President of MCA Records, has said, “If a song’s not on the radio, it’ll never sell.” And, speaking with a reporter from WHDH-TV (March 2009), Bono said, “It’s worth remembering that U2, you know we broke in the United States through Boston, and through radio stations like BCN and stuff like that. We depend on radio.”

Local radio stations aren't trying to avoid paying a just tax. Despite what record companies claim, radio stations do pay to play music. Radio stations pay more than half a billion dollars annually to songwriters and composers for the right to play their music over-the-air. And, over-the-air radio is heard by nearly half a million listeners every day, who generate nearly three billion dollars in annual music sales!

Over-the-air radio in Iowa recently played an invaluable role during a crisis. Stations across the state remained on-the-air during massive flooding, providing news, support and comfort to devastated communities. Many of the people working at the station, including those on-air personalities, remained at work while their own homes [and even the very station from which they were working] was threatened by flood waters!

Artists who have made their name on local radio have been unfairly compensated by record companies. It is not the responsibility of radio stations or their listeners to rectify that injustice nor are they responsible for ensuring such injustice does not occur again. If Congress is truly interested in ensuring artists are being paid fairly, it should start with the artists’ employers – the record companies!

Radio stations across the country are united in their opposition to this legislation and they, like me, urge you to join us in that opposition.

Send a message to Congress, oppose "The Performance Rights Act".

Keep radio free!
SPEAKING FRANKLY by Lewis Franklin
adapted and augmented from material provided by the Free Radio Alliance
some content was compiled and sent to Members of Congress
13 May 2009

To Avert Catastrophe


Global warming is an environmental crisis the like of which has never been faced. Given the powerful forces actively working to delay action to overcome it, addressing the crisis will require bold leadership.

President Obama and the G8 have accepted two degrees Celsius as the limit of acceptable global warming but will they take the action needed to keep the planetary mean temperature below that threshold? It is widely acknowledged, the industrialized nations of the world must cut their emissions by forty percent before 2020. And, the United States should lead the way. Yet the Obama Administration, like Congress, is continuing to promote emission reductions far short of forty percent by 2020.

We cannot afford to put this off until tomorrow, this must be done today. A plan of action to keep the rise of global temperatures below two degrees Celsius must be formulated and put into effect. We must act today to stop global warming.

In his inaugural address, President Obama promised to "restore science to its rightful place" and make America a real global leader again. It’s time for him to live up to that promise.

Mr. President, we need you to be a leader, not simply a politician. You must show Congress and the industrialized nations of the world, the United States is ready to take strong and immediate action to avert a climatic catastrophe.

At the summit in Italy, the G8 announced their commitment to keeping global temperature rise below two degrees Celsius, 109 nations endorsed the goal before the announcement was made. However, without a long-term course of action and a formidable commitment to the lasting recovery of the planet, our goal will never be achieved. Politically safe legislation requiring meager reductions over many years will not achieve any actual reduction in the planetary mean temperature.

That kind of action is like paying only the minimum required balance!

And, we all know where that will lead.

President Obama your support of the ACES bill is ill considered. A four percent reduction of emissions is needed annually for the next ten years if a forty percent reduction is to be achieved before 2020. The ACES bill will achieve only a ten percent reduction over the next decade! Following that emission reduction plan, we have no hope of avoiding climatic catastrophe!

The ACES bill is grossly ineffective and grandly insulting.

Further, we need legislation to guarantee a perpetual limitation of emissions. Legislation with included allowable offsets has no meaningful effect. We are sending violators to their rooms but not taking away their toys!

More, we must provide the means and resources for research and development. Energy conversation and renewable power will free us from the foul effects of oil and gasoline. But, rather than new carbon forms or applications, I believe geo-thermal; safe fusion; and, solar are much more promising sources of energy.

The worst part of the ACES bill is the Presidential authority [under the Clean Air Act] to regulate greenhouse gas emissions! Authority which has been upheld by the Supreme Court!

Representative Lloyd Doggett (of Texas) took a courageous stand against the ACES bill, demonstrating real leadership and a commitment to ending global warming. I urge President Obama and all of Congress to follow Representative Doggett’s example.

We are counting on you to avert catastrophe.

Lewis
adapted and augmented from a Greenpeace petition
29 June 2009

08 October 2009

Raisins Not Raisans

I've been away ... have many works which will be posted [or re-posted] in the coming weeks. Went to the New York State Fair this summer... saw Jeff Dunham perform live – and in the rain! My former employer has negotiated a “complementary” contract with my health insurer... so, now I have to apply for Medicare! CRAP! Got a bogus traffic ticket several weeks ago... going to trial next week. RUBBISH!

I've made some changes:

TV PICKS -- "Castle" and "Hawthorne"

ON THE WEB -- "Classic Cartoons"; "Hanna-Barbera"; "Looney Tunes"; "Patriot Files"; "Scooby-Doo"; and, "Super Heroes"

BEST MOVIES HISTORIC -- "The Hindenburg (1975)"; "Three To Tango" (1999); and, "Juno" (2007)

TV PICKS PAST -- "Battlestar Galactica" (2004 - 2009); "ER" (1994 - 2009); and, "King Of The Hill" (1997 - 2008)

Oh, and I corrected that spelling error, in BEST TELEVISION COMMERCIALS -- "Raisins" not "Raisans"!
Frank 07 October 2009

08 May 2009

Star Trek

A Bold New Beginning For Gene Roddenberry’s Creation!

Jim Kirk was born in outer space, across the galaxy, in the wake of a stellar event with a heroic finale. On Earth he became a reckless, adventurous, dangerous, care-free, young man. Brilliant but without ambition, abandoning the legacy of his parents... until the day he met Captain Christopher Pike. Now, he will take-up a new challenge and find an ambition which few can match.

For twenty-five years a threat has loomed across the galaxy... waiting for Starfleet’s flagship and it’s famed captain and first officer! James Tiberius Kirk and Spock are young and inexperienced; yet, they face an enemy harboring for them much anger and contempt.

Taking incomplete threads from the short-lived series, “Star Trek: Enterprise”, this film has dared to ask: What if everything we know were to change? It’s an amazing concept, wonderfully made reality! This film is filled with bits reminiscent of Trek past but it’s shape and sustenance is fascinatingly fresh!

Masterfully written, performed, directed, produced and effected, this is a Must-See film... and it’s just the beginning!

A / PG2


Starring: Chris Pine; Zachary Quinto; Karl Urban; and, Zoe Saldana.
Featuring: Bruce Greenwood; Simon Pegg; John Cho; and, Anton Yelchin.
With: Leonard Nimoy; Eric Bana; Winona Ryder; and, Ben Cross.


Reel Review by Josef

Wolverine

Edgy. Sharp. Fast. Thrilling.

He’s much older than anyone would believe. His life before joining the mutant team created and trained by Professor X was as unpleasant as it was long. He began his life simply, sickly, but an act of brutality gave birth to the animal within him and he’s been running from it ever since. Beside his brother, even more an animal than himself, he’s traversed the world fighting and killing... until one day he left it all behind.

But, men such as he can’t escape the tragedies of life. All too soon, his past has come for him and he’ll strike a bargain with a devil to put down an animal...!

Borrowing from graphic novel masterpieces, “Origin” and “Weapon X”, plus thirty years of stories by such masters as Chris Claremont and Jim Lee, this film is brilliantly written and performed. It’s fast pace and hard edge was likely a challenge to direct, especially when faced with working it all into an established cinematic history [something which was remarkably well done in the end]. That challenge was remarkably well met here.

A / PG2

Starring: Hugh Jackman; Liev Schreiber; Danny Huston; Lynn Collins; and, Taylor Kitsch.
Featuring: Ryan Reynolds; will I am; Daniel Henney; and, Scott Adkins.
With: Dominic Monaghan; Tim Pocock; Kevin Durand; Julia Blake; and, Max Cullen.
Writers: David Benioff and Skip Woods.
Director: Gavin Hood

Reel Review by Josef Franklin

Evie's Waltz

A disturbing drama, provocatively presented.

It’s often easy to blame the parents when a child has gone bad... but who do you blame when you are the parents? What do you say? Who do you ask? How did my child do this terrible thing? What have I done? This is the dilemma now facing Clay and Gloria in the wake of an event which occurred at Evie’s school today.

Remarkably written and brilliantly performed this live-stage production is directed with an easy hand, allowing the audience to question all they see and hear... in the end one may feel an overwhelming sense of awe as they somberly leave the theater to go home and hug their children.

B / PG2


Starring: Magan Wiles; Annie Fitzpatrick; and, Skip Greer.
Writer: Carter W. Lewis
Director: Tim Ocel


Reel Review by Josef Franklin

09 April 2009

Monsters vs. Aliens

A bit of delight for all ages.

It was an ordinary day. An ordinary bright sunny, beautiful day. A day every girl would like for her wedding day – then it all came crashing down. Suddenly Susan Murphy isn’t the woman she was and may never be again. Raise to ginormous proportion, Susan is taken from everyone and everything she’s ever known. Housed with others like herself, abnormal, unique, frightening – Monsters. Property of the U.S. Government, hidden away, never to be seen again.

Then, suddenly, an unstoppable extra-terrestrial force has come – Aliens. Bent on acquiring a unique power source secretly held by the U.S. Military, they will destroy the planet. Powerless against the invaders our only hope Nothing can stop them... nothing, perhaps, but those we’ve hidden away.

This is a simply written and directed film, beautifully animated and decently performed.

C / PG
Starring: Reese Witherspoon; Hugh Laurie; Seth Rogen; and, Will Arnett
Featuring: Kiefer Sutherland; Rainn Wilson; Stephen Colbert; and, Paul Rudd
Writers: Conrad Vernon; Rob Letterman; Glenn Berger; Maya Forbes; and, Wallace Wolodarsky
Directors: Conrad Vernon and Rob Letterman

Reel Review by Josef Franklin
28 March 2009

26 March 2009

Our Great Nation

As a taxpayer funding the AIG bailout, I am OUTRAGED. That the bailout money funded by tax dollars was used to pay bonuses [six figure bonuses!] to AIG managers is an unconscionable act of greed and mismanagement.

Any argument regarding contracts and "negotiated" or guaranteed payments is further evidence of management greed! A wise and honest manager would recognize their responsibility to the company and their own role in the failure of that company. Such managers would take the loss and offer humble apologies to those they failed.

Across the country employees are being asked to give back salaries and benefits to relieve their overburdened employers. Hard working men and women who dare not dream of salary bonuses even as little as ten percent of what AIG managers received are making sacrifices giving back ten percent [and more] of their salaries and benefits. These employees struggle every day to support their households, they eke out a living, lucky to have a week's vacation, more lucky to travel within the United States... while these managers keep second homes and travel to other countries for extended periods of time!

Those making the sacrifice are those who can least afford it. What the AIG managers have done is more than a slap in the face, It Is An Affront To The Dignity And Generosity Of Those Who Are The Foundation Of This Nation.

SHAME On Them!

That portion of the AIG bailout which they've taken MUST be returned -- even if it must be garnished or withheld or by court order drawn directly from your bank accounts!

It is my sincere hope that justice will be done here AND in the future more reverence will be paid to the working men and women of our great nation.

Frank Words
By Frank Jaymes

Race To Witch Mountain

A fun race for those who remember the first trip to Witch Mountain and for those who are making the trip for the first time.

When an extra-terrestrial object entering Earth’s atmosphere changed course a call to arms went out and the hunt began. Unbeknownst to Jack Bruno, a not-so-simple cab driver, the two kids seeking a ride are far more than they appear and the men chasing after the cab aren’t coming for him. They mean us no harm but if they do not find what they seek, retrieve their space craft and get home – two worlds are doomed! But, short-sighted soldiers and nefarious criminals aren’t the only people chasing after these two kids... the real enemy is far more dangerous!

Simply written and directed, the charm of this film is in the performances – and the nostalgia! Fans of the classic Witch Mountain films will recognize Kim Richards and Ike Eisenmann in their brief but pivotal roles.

C / PG
Starring: Dwayne Johnson; Anna Sophia Robb; and, Alexander Ludwig
Featuring: Carla Gugino; Ciaran Hinds; and , Tom Everett Scott
With: Kim Richards; Ike Eisenmann; Garry Marshall; and, Cheech Marin
Writers: Mark Bomback; Andy Fickman; Matt Lopez; and, Lloyd Taylor
Director: Andy Fickman

Reel Review by Frank Jaymes
20 March 2009

25 March 2009

Collectibles And Novelties

THE TOP TEN: Ultimatum; Batman; Hulk; Wolverine; Uncanny X-Men; Amazing Spider-Man; Captain America; Buffy (The Vampire Slayer); Justice Society; and, Detective Comics.

THE SPLASH PAGE: Following the “Secret Invasion” Marvel is launching a “War of Kings”! From armed conflict, Krypton is reborn! Batman has perished, now the “Battle for the Cowl” has begun! The world is no longer big enough for two bearers of the Witchblade! IDW is now the publisher of the G.I. Joe franchise, set to launch with a series of movie prequels. Boom Studios has teamed with Disney-Pixar to put “The Incredibles” [and others] on store shelves! Marvel’s collaboration with Stephen King is continuing with “The Stand”. Warren Ellis’ “best selling” “Anna Mercury” is now available in soft-cover and hard-cover trades. With talent such as Alan Moore, Neil Gaiman and Dave Gibbons, the relaunch of [Wil Eisner’s] “The Spirit” has been a phenomenal success! With “The Watchmen” film coming soon [to theaters and IMAX] the works of Alan Moore are in demand; likewise, buzz over the upcoming “Star Trek” film has given rise to much new and relaunched material!

DARK HORSE COMICS: Titles Available Include – Applegeeks; [Boris Karloff:] Tales of Mystery; B.P.R.D.; Conan (The Cimmerian); Hellboy; Star Wars: Knights / Republic; Star Wars: Legacy; and, The Goon. Other Items Available Include – B.P.R.D.: The Warning (TPB) {$18}; Little Lulu: The Alamo [& other stories] (TPB) {$15}; Star Wars: Clone Wars - Wind Raiders (Digest) {$8}; and, Tarzan: The Jesse Marsh Years [volumes 1 & 2] (HC) {$50 ea}; and, [Will Eisner’s The] Spirit - The New Adventures [Archives] (HC) {$50}. Merchandise Available Including – Simpsons Classic Character [#1] - Homer Simpson {$50}.

DC COMICS: With the war against the Dark Trinity at a fever pitch, Krona’s emergence will have destructive consequences and our only hope is to find and bring back the exiled three - Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman! {#40 to 43} Fighting to survive the Final Crisis, Superman and the Legion founders battle the Time Trapper while the legionnaires war with Superboy-Prime and his Legion of Super-Villains! {... Worlds 5} New Krypton has been born, The Phantom Zone is lost and Superman is missing! {#686} In a “World Without Superman”, can Mon-El; The Guardian; Nightwing; and, Flamebird keep Metropolis safe?! {Action Comics 875} New Krypton is a reality and Kal-El is thrust into “interstellar treachery and deadly machinations [with] the lives of two racing [hanging] in the balance”! {World / Krypton 1 (of 12)} A dead body in the harbor; a search for Reactron; and, the mystery of Superwoman has Supergirl very busy! {#39} With assistance from Robin and Dr. Irons, Batman will counter “The Revenge of The Prankster” ... or Superman will be lost forever! {World’s Finest 57}

With Batman gone, Gotham City is in turmoil and the Battle For The Cowl has begun! {# 1 (of 3) + crossover one-shots} Gotham is ripe for the return of Azrael: Death’s Dark Knight! {# 1 (of 3)} She has disbanded her Birds of Prey and returned to Gotham, now Barbara Gordon is caught in the crossfire of The Calculator’s quest for Anti-Life! {Oracle 1 (of 3)} Batman and Riddler team-up to solve the riddles of King Tut. {... Confidential 27} Batman’s most dangerous enemies join forces with Midnight! {Gotham After Midnight 11 (of 12)} To defeat Chronos and restore the time-line, Booster Gold will partner with a time-lost Booster Gold! {#18} Is Black Canary responsible for Star City’s newest menace? {Green Arrow 18} While Wonder Woman is battling Genocide, Zeus has created a new messenger of peace and sent him forth to deliver it “by any means necessary”! {#30}

Mongul has all of Daxam and the Sinestro Corps, the “Blackest Night” has come! {Green Lantern Corps 34} The Orange Lanterns have launched against Green Lantern and the Blackest Night shall come! {#40} The Final Crisis had ended and the Justice League is nearly done! {#31} Billy Batson has been banished from the Rock of Eternity; so, the Justice Society must “call upon an old friend” to stop Black Adam and his family “once and for all”! {#25}

The freshman Outsiders roster must engage The Insiders to preserve “the future of [human]kind”! {#16} Regrouping, following the loss of one of their own, The Titans discover a “Deathtrap” looming for all! {#11} With an all-new roster, the Teen Titans have little time to prepare for the “Deathtrap” coming! {#69}
Simon Dark and his family “cope with [a] gruesome” loss. {#18} Bloody and ragged, the Secret Six “fight their way through throngs” of heroes to discover “the man pulling the strings” of this villainous affair. {#7} Hunting for Jericho, Vigilante is interrogating the Titans. {#4}

He’s been “torturing and experimenting on people for years” but this “Sawbones” has never encountered anyone like Jonah Hex! {#41} Why is Lorelei Rox (“the most beautiful voice in Central City”) singing for Octopus?! {The Spirit 27} It’s a battle royal, the “greatest warriors of all time” vs. “something mightier than all of them”. {The War That Time Forgot 11 (of 12)} The hunt for a possible serial killer will take Mulder and Scully into the “Hollow Earth”! {X-Files 5} “All of the secrets are revealed” before the “Great Fables Crossover Event”. {Jack Of Fables 32} In an epilogue to “The Dark Ages”, is true love possible for Boy Blue and Rose Red? {Fables 82} Sex, suspicions and treachery are in store for Harry Bailey. {House Of Mystery 11} Some memories are so vicious, some demons so horrible, one should never reveal them! {Hellblazer 253} The machinations of the Phantom Stranger near their completion. {Madame Xanadu 9} Ragnar and his Irish army break the back of the Vikings, prepared to bring about Magnus’ execution. {Northlanders 16} Welcome to Browning, Arizona, where your “wildest dreams and darkest desires come true”, “life without consequences - enjoy it while it lasts”! {Young Liars 13}

Other Items Available Include: [Absolute] V For Vendetta (HC) {$99}; Hellblazer Presents: Chaz - The Knowledge (TPB) {$15}; Jonah Hex: Bullets Don’t Lie (TPB) {$15}; Justice League: The Second Coming (HC) {$20}; Justice Society: Thy Kingdom Come - Part 1 (TPB) {$15}; Scalped [v. 4]: The Gravel In Your Guts (TPB) {$15}; The Question: Welcome To Oz (TPB) {$20}; and, Y: The Last Man [Deluxe Edition] 2 (HC) {$30}.

Titles For The Kids Including: Batman - Brave [a/t] Bold; Cartoon Network Block Party; Looney Tunes; Super Friends; Supergirl - Cosmic Adventures [in the 8th Grade]; and, Tiny Titans.

IMAGE COMICS: Titles Available Include – Amber Atoms; Astounding Wolf-Man; Black Vault; Dynamo [Five]; Invincible; Savage Dragon; Soul Kiss; Spawn; The Darkness; and, Witchblade. Other Items Available Include – American Flagg [v.] 2 (TPB) {$20}; Brit [v.] 3 (TPB) {$17}; Girls & Goddesses (HC) {$30}; and, Liberty Meadows [v. 4]: Cold, Cold Heart (TPB) {$15}.

MARVEL COMICS: Titles Available Include – Amazing Spider-Girl; Amazing Spider-Man; Avengers; Avengers-Invaders; Black Panther; Cable; Captain America; Daredevil; Dark Avengers; Eternals; Fantastic Four; Ghost Rider; Guardians [o/t] Galaxy; Incredible Hercules; Invincible Iron Man; Iron Fist; Moon Knight; Ms. Marvel; Nova; Runaways; Skaar (Son of Hulk); Squadron Supreme; Thor; Uncanny X-Men; War Machine; Wolverine; Wolverine: Origins; X-Force; X-Men; and, Young X-Men.

FROM THE BACK RACK: Titles Available Including – Angel; Anna Mercury; Arabian Nights: Adventures of Sinbad; Archie; Battlestar Galactica; Ben10 Alien Force; Betty; Caped; [Disney-Pixar’s] Cars; Doctor Who; [Jim Butcher’s] Dresden Files; [Terry Moore’s] Echo; Eureka; Farscape; Futurama Comics; Ghost Whisperer; G.I. Joe; Gold Digger; Grimm Fairy Tales; Hexed; Jughead; Jungle Girl; [Patricia Brigg’s] Mercy Thompson; [Dean Koontz’s] Nevermore; Ninja High School; Power [o/t] Valkyrie; Ray Harryhausen Presents [: 10th Muse]; Rawbone; Red Sonja; Remnant; Robinson Crusoe; Salem’s Daughter; Simpsons Comics; Speed Racer; Star Trek; [C.E. Murphy’s] Take A Chance; Tarot (Witch [o/t] Black Rose); Terminator; [Disney-Pixar’s] The Incredibles; The Man With No Name; The Muppet Show; The Phantom; Transformers; Uncle Scrooge; Vincent Price Presents; Voyages [o/t] She-Buccaneer; Walt Disney Comics; Warlock; and, Zorro... plus, a mass quantity of magazines; books; apparel; toys; models, statues; imports; prints; posters; collectibles and novelties!

From Previews Catalog January 2009
reposted from January 2009

03 March 2009

Watchmen

You’ve never seen super heroes like these!

The year is 1985. President Richard Nixon has been elected to his fifth term in office. The world is on the brink of nuclear armageddon. The masked heroes of old are gone. Humankind’s one hope is Dr. Manhattan, a nuclear man who has lost all his humanity, believing human life is parasitic and pointless. Tonight, in the city, a comedian is killed. And, tomorrow the world will end.

This film is brilliantly written, though with great foreboding and dread. The direction here is spot-on, exactly what readers of the graphic novel would expect. Most impressive are the performances, especially Jackie Earle Haley and Billy Crudup!

{Why Alan Moore demanded his name be removed from this production is beyond my comprehension!}

B / R

Starring: Malin Ackerman; Billy Crudup; Jackie Earle Haley; and, Patrick Wilson
Featuring: Matthew Goode and Jeffrey Dean Morgan
With: Matt Frewer and Carla Gugino
Writer: Alex Tse [from the graphic novel by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons]
Director: Zack Snyder

Reel Review by Josef

02 March 2009

Coraline

Somehow familiar and without true excitement.

Coraline doesn’t like her new home. She doesn’t particularly like her parents either. And, the neighbor boy stalking her isn’t a friend she would choose. What’s a girl to do with so little... go somewhere much bigger, much more fun, somewhere hidden, secret – but is it safe?

A simple, twisted, tale. Brilliantly animated and decently performed.

C / PG





 
Starring: Dakota Fanning and Teri Hatcher
Featuring: John Hodgman and Ian McShane
With: Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders
Writer: Henry Selick [from the book by Neil Gaiman]
Director: Henry Selick


Reel Review by Josef

Sweeney Todd

Attend The Tale Of Sweeney Todd!

Wrongfully imprisoned, a man has returned to London for reunion and revenge. Alas, his wife and child have been taken from him. With his beloved spouse there can be no reunion and his child too may be forever lost to him. Revenge would seem to be all there can be for Mr. Sweeney Todd – but how to do it? Razor in hand, he will return to the work for which he was once most famed... they will come to him and the blood will flow!

An amazingly macabre tale with brilliant song. Astonishingly performed and superbly directed - this live-stage production is not to be missed!

A+ / R

Starring: Marissa McGowan; Kristie Dale Sanders; Stephen Tewksbury; and, James Van Treuren.
Featuring: Leslie Becker; Daniel Bogart; Roland Rusinek; and, Brad Weinstock.
With: Ron DeStefano and Don Mayo.
Writers: Hugh Wheeler and Stephen Sondheim [from an adaption by Christopher Bond]
Director: Mark Cuddy

Reel Review by Josef

Push

Something like [NBC’s] “Heroes” on the silver screen.

They’ve been among us for years. They are something more than human, something extraordinary. Taken from their homes, hidden, studied, tested and used. Now is the time foretold, when one of their number will bring about their salvation... but first there must be a revolution.

The story here is not especially strong but if this is just the beginning, a story which is a bit weak and slow should be expected. Typical of action genre films, there is an uneven hand in it’s direction. This is a light load for the performers to carry but they do carry it well.

C / PG2


Starring: Chris Evans; Dakota Fanning; and, Camilla Belle.
Featuring: Djimon Hounsou
With: Cliff Curtis
Writer: David Bourla
Director: Paul McGuigan


Reel Review by Josef

He's Just Not That Into You

A bit too much to be truly romantic, too much like daytime drama – but if you’re into soaps....

The lives and relationships of seven people are interwoven in this story of what woman want, what men need, and what will make or break them. More, this is a story of love and hope and finding the jewel hidden right in front of your eyes.

Decently written and directed, the strength of this film is the brilliant performances!

B / PG2





Starring: Ben Affleck; Jennifer Aniston; Jennifer Connelly; Ginnifer Goodwin; and, Justin Long.
Featuring: Drew Barrymore; Bradley Cooper; and, Scarlett Johansson.
With: Kevin Connolly and Kris Kristofferson.
Writers: Abby Kohn and Mark Silverstein [from the book by Greg Behrendt and Liz Tuccillo]
Director: Ken Kwapis


Reel Review by Josef

Sahara Nights

A terrific live-stage event!

Once upon a time there was a bored king and a young woman with a love for stories. To relieve the king’s boredom and ease the anxiety of his tyrannized people, she will tell the tales of three men: a daring peasant; an adventurous captain; and, a foolish emperor.

In this production, the popular tales of Shaharazad are retooled for popular culture and delightful humor. Music and song bring more energy to the stage and heighten the audience’s pleasure.

Brilliantly written, set and performed, this production is proof positive of the absolute value of music, drama and arts programs in school!

A / PG

Starring: Mason Ames; Kaylin Cervini; Mike Flanagan; Stephanie Summa; Robert Swanger; and, Samantha Thomas.
Featuring: Sydney Abbate; Anthony Grieco; Aaron Grippo; Moira Madden; Jen Reeves; and, Alex Sinanan.
With: Molly Bliss; Christina Grieco; Chris Mumpton; Jason Phillips; and, Alayna Zimbrich.
Writer(s): Hilton High School Drama Club [adapted from the work of Wade Bradford]
Directors: Leah Oltean and Mike Flanagan

Reel Review by Josef

07 February 2009

Car At Denny's

I shall relate to you an incident which occurred just after midnight, Sunday, 01 February 2009 (actual date and time).

After a late show at Regal Theater I drove to Denny’s Restaurant (2890 Ridge Road West) for a late dinner. I am a regular customer at this restaurant, having dinner there at least once a week for the past nine years. Entering the parking lot I drove toward the disabled parking spaces and backed into the first unoccupied space.

As I was parking my car I observed in my rear view mirror two uniformed individuals exiting the restaurant. Setting the gear to park, I observed the shorter individual take a position behind and to the passenger’s side of my car. He stood at a slight angle with his right hand on his weapon, prepared to draw and fire.

WFKL Radio began playing “Carnival” as I applied balm to my lips. My car was still running and I was alone, with my hands, head and face in full view. I now observed the taller man, approaching the car directly. His right hand was set on his weapon while his left hand shone a flashlight through each of my car windows in turn as he approached my door.

Lip balm in hand, I reached for and toggled the switch to lower the glass, opening the window. “Is there a problem?” I asked.

This man reflected the light off my rearview mirror to blind my eyes. “You don’t have a handicapped sticker,” he answered.

Perturbed, I replied, “Really?” And, with my open right hand directed his attention to my visor where my disabled parking permit is customarily and was presently stowed. “I Haven’t Got Out Of The Car Yet,” I continued. Then, re-toggling the switch, I closed the window.

As I listened to the completion of “Carnival” the two men retreated from me and my car then reentered the restaurant. When the song was completed, I turned off the engine, hung my permit from the rear view mirror and exited the vehicle.

On four legs, I made my way to the door and entered the restaurant. Inside, with a normal pace, I approached the two individuals who had approached my vehicle and falsely accused me of a parking violation.

“What’re your names,” I asked in a normal tone.

The taller of the two, averted my gaze but turned his right breast toward me. On it was a tag displaying the moniker “R. Huff”. His partner, belligerently, declared, “We don’t have to give you our names.”

“What you did was wrong,” I told them. “You had no right to approach me with your guns. I didn’t do anything wrong.” The belligerent man avoided my every attempt to view his name tag. The uniforms the men wore appeared to be nothing more than black jeans (or slacks) and a black shirt with a simple name tag on the right breast, some sort of rank insignia on the right shoulder and a logo of some kind. There was nothing bright or easily observed about the shirt. Still, I did notice each of the men also had some kind of white card on their left breast, facing backward and obscured by the flap of the shirt pocket. They each wore belts bearing a gun, a flashlight and [I presume from the shape at the back] handcuffs.

I moved away from the men and took a step toward the registers. The belligerent man stepped in front of me, less than a foot away, with his arms outstretched to his sides, a barrier erected. “You have to leave,” he told me.

“I’m going to speak to the manager.”

“No. You’re Leaving.”

“Is that right? We’ll see what the manager has to say.” I looked to my left for the attention of Denny’s staff but all were ignoring these gestapo. “I will report this to the manager,” I insisted, standing my ground.

“We don’t work for Denny’s,” boasted the belligerent man. That his employer is some security or protection service I have no doubt; however, that employer’s contract is with Denny’s. And, I’m certain the contract would include a provision for removing customers whose conduct is either violent or disorderly. But, I’m equally certain that contract doesn’t include harassing customers.

These armed men are supposed to keep the peace, not disturb it. They have no police authority. They have no right to deny me either entrance or seat. They have no right to refuse to provide their names, submit themselves to complaint. They had neither right nor cause to approach my vehicle in such a menacing manner.

“You have no right to do this,” I declared.

“Around here, We Make The Rules,” belligerent man growled. And, “If you don’t leave now we’ll call nine-one-one.”

Standing there I was disappointed by the failure of Denny’s employees to give this gestapo action any attention. More, I realized I was becoming angry. I don’t do well with angry; so, I turned, saying, “I will report you to your boss,” and approached the exit.

Belligerent man, following only a pace behind, bellowed, “I’m the boss, now get out.”

Outside the restaurant, as I neared the curb, belligerent man, stood at the opened door and, with a change of tone, had the audacity to excuse his behavior, “A cop was killed tonight and we’re not taking any chances.”

I stopped, set myself, turned on my heel, and stood on two legs. Sternly, I replied, “I Did Not Kill That Cop. And, I’ll tell you something else, That Cop Wasn’t Killed By A Guy Parking His Car At Denny’s.”

Speaking Frankly by Lewis

The Reader

Unusually romantic. Compelling and brilliant.

It was a turbulent time in Germany, in the years soon after the end of the second World War, when a teenaged boy met a much older woman. Their affair was mutually loving and gratifying, born, bred and secreted in literature. Years later the boy is now a man recollecting his first love, how it was lost, and all the regret and tragedy which followed.

Brilliantly written and directed, this film is alive with remarkably outstanding performances!

A / PG2

Starring: Kate Winslet; Ralph Fiennes; and, David Kross
Featuring: Bruno Ganz; Hannah Herzeprung; Vijnessa Ferkic; and, Matthias Habich
With: Susanne Lothar; Karoline Herfurth; Alexandra Maria Lara; Volker Bruch
Writer: David Hare [from the book by Bernhard Schlink]
Director: Stephen Daidry

Reel Review by Josef

Revolutionary Road

Morose and forlorn – but outstanding nonetheless!

Frank and April once dreamed of a life singularly free, unique and pleasurable. Still, their life course led them inevitable to a little house in the suburb, raising their children... and pretending to be living happily-ever-after. Now, all their pretense is threatening to crush them. Conformity has robbed them of their once brilliant creativity, stolen their freedom and killed their spirit. But, there is hope, an opportunity to restore all they’ve lost – if only they can get to Paris before the rules of society make yet more demands.

Weakly written and unevenly directed, this film’s strength is in it’s brilliant performances!

B / PG2


Starring: Kate Winslet; Leonardo DiCaprio; and, Kathy Bates
Featuring: Michael Shannon; Kathryn Hahn; David Harbour; and, Jay O. Sanders
With: Richard Easton; Dylan Baker; Zoe Kazan; and, Max Casella
Writer: Justin Haythe [from the book by Richard Yates]


Reel Review by Josef

Taken

Nothing here we haven’t seen before now.

Bryan Mills is a retired covert operative “with a particular set of skills”. Traveling to Paris after his daughter is abducted, he’ll put those skills to use. Anyone and anything between him and her will be destroyed.

Weakly written with typical direction and performances.

D / R







Starring: Liam Neeson
Featuring: Maggie Grace; Famke Janssen; Leland Orser; and, Olivier Rebourdin
With: Jon Gries; Holly Valance; Katie Cassidy; and, Xander Berkeley
Writers: Luc Besson and Robert Mark Kamen
Director: Pierre Morel

Reel Reviews by Josef

House In Hydesville

Wonderfully spooky and mysterious in the first act – woefully less in the second!

In the winter of 1848 a poor family moved from the city (Rochester NY) to Hydesville, some thirty miles to the southeast. The family moved into a small rented cottage, locally known as [because some manner of fatal tragedy had occurred at] “the spook house”. Not long after settling into their new home, the family is plagued by unearthly visitations.

Soon, this haunting became a national event. The family’s new found fame afforded them the opportunity to not only return to the city but tour the nation – and abroad. Surviving Congressional investigation, spearheaded by men and woman who believed the family’s two youngest had “spiritual” power, The National Spiritualist Association of Churches was founded.

But, was there more... what were those strange noises... could it have been a great hoax?

Remarkably well performed this play seemed incomplete and unevenly directed.

D / PG2

Starring: Lauren Orkus; Annie Purcell; and, Lanie MacEwan
Featuring: Kristin Griffith; Michael Rudko; Rachel Rusch; and, Garrett Neergard
Writer: Dan O’Brien
Director: Skip Greer

Reel Reviews by Josef

30 January 2009

The GH Series

ABC scored big with “Charlie Brown” this year. While CBS, still feeling the hit from having lost it’s license for “Charlie Brown”, gave as good as it got with “Rudolph”.

Daytime Drama may see it’s end this year. Ratings are down overall and the costs are ever rising to keep those who are watching from tuning out. The highest paid stars are being asked to take significant salary cuts in order to maintain the high cost of production of their respective dramas.

Paul Benedict (‘Mr. Bentley’ of “The Jeffersons”) was found dead in his home 01 December, he was 70 years old.

SCI-FI has ordered 20 episodes of “Caprica” [a prequel to “Battlestar Galactica”], starring Eric Stoltz and Esai Morales. The series is scheduled to premiere in 2010.

You know the song... “Come and play. Everything’s a-ok. On my way to where the air is sweet. Can you tell me how to get.. how to get to Sesame Street.” For the popular PBS program’s 40th anniversary the book “Street Gang: The Complete History of Sesame Street” [written by Michael Davis] was published last year (29 December). And, 27 January, “Sesame Street” will be featured in a fantasy sequence on [ABC’s] “Scrubs”!

This season of [HBO’s] “Big Love” will feature stories developed from real-life events which occurred in Texas last year. Jeanne Tripplehorn (‘Barb’ of “Big Love”) will play [along with Drew Barrymore and Jessica Lange] Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis for HBO’s upcoming “Grey Gardens”. And, (her “Big Love” husband) Bill Paxton will produce [along with Tom Hanks] a mini-series honoring the life and death of John F. Kennedy, to air in 2013 - the 50th anniversary of the President Kennedy’s assassination.

George Takei {of “Star Trek” fame - duh!} will be featured as ‘Lord Durd’ on [Cartoon Network’s] “Star Wars: The Clone Wars”, airing 16 January and 23 January 2009!

Wil Wheaton {again - duh!} will portray “the original Blue Beetle” on [Cartoon Network’s] “Batman: The Brave And The Bold”, airing 23 January 2009.

The 100th episode of [SCI-FI’s] “Stargate Atlantis” marked it’s final television adventure. Production of a straight-to-DVD film will begin this spring.

The last nine episodes of this season’s [FOX’s] “Sarah Connor Chronicles” will begin 13 February 2009. [Series creator] Josh Friedman is promising revelation regarding the mechanical defects of ‘Cameron’; the romance between ‘John’ and ‘Riley’; and, “the death of a major character”.

Ratings are diminishing for [FOX’s] “[Terminator:] The Sarah Connor Chronicles” and people are at a loss to explain it. The acclaimed series should have an easy ride ... {maybe it would if it hadn’t become so dang convoluted with it’s time tripping back and forth – plus we still don’t know if we should trust two of the lead characters AND what the heck is up with that liquid metal terminator babe?!}

Celebrating the spring release of “[X-Men: Origins -] Wolverine” at movie theaters nationwide, Marvel has produced it’s third animated X-Men series. The series (“Wolverine [and the X-Men]”) will air on Nicktoons Network.

If you ask me, ABC’s cancellation of “Eli Stone” was inevitable as soon as the cause of the visions seen by ‘Eli’ was determined to be a “brain aneurism”... and then ‘the deity’ appeared to say she put it there for a reason – never explain the unexplainable!

Rena Sofer does seem to have found a niche as the ‘wife-in distress’. Her latest gig [following “24" and “Heroes”] is for [CBS’] “Ghost Whisperer”.

Sarah Brown will be with “General Hospital” for another year. {Yea!}

It’s official, Jay Leno will leave [NBC’s] “The Tonight Show” in May. However, his 17 years with the prominent late night talk show has prompted NBC to sign him to a new show – a prime time gig which will begin September 2009! Still, some industry folks aren’t pleased with this turn of events. A 10 PM talk show will create a vacuum for dramatic programming. With one less spot for script based television, producers, directors, crew and performers will likely have no jobs next fall. Responding to criticism, NBC executives have cited their consistent ratings losses in the 10PM slot. And, they believe Leno will be a ratings powerhouse to combat the strong 10PM dramas of CBS and ABC.

Some people are pleased with the news of Jay Leno’s upcoming prime time show. Jimmy Kimmel’s spot after “Nightline” was endangered by speculation that Leno would get a late night show at ABC. CBS is hopeful of a ratings boost for David Letterman. “Nightline” producers have a promising new year ahead as they seem no longer in danger of “extinction”. And, of course, Conan O’Brien [who will take the reins of “The Tonight Show” 01 June 2009] is happy to not be competing with his predecessor.

Appearing together publicly in recent months, David Duchovny and [his estranged wife] Tea Leoni appear to be in a state of reconciliation.

Jamie-Lynn Sigler (of [HBO’s] “Soprano’s”) will return [playing herself] to “Entourage” this year.

December (2008) was a good month for Kiefer {who’s not incarcerated following a DWI conviction earlier in the year} Sutherland. Two days after receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the “astonishingly good actor” (as declared by his father, Donald Sutherland), received a Golden Globe nomination for his work in [FOX’s] “24: Redemption”. {Ironic: The “mini-series” was the result of the strike fouled production! This day of “24" was supposed to take place in Africa but the strike and in-country difficulties made production impossible to continue. But, rather than dump what was in the can [especially considering the show had been off-air for more than a year] when the strike ended, the two hour ‘prologue’ to this season’s day was created.}

Being inducted into the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Hall of Fame, Sherwood Schwartz declared a deal to bring “Gilligan’s Island” to the silver screen “just happened in the past 48 hours”.

Though they appeared amicable at the ATAS event honoring Sherwood Shwartz, word is, Christopher Knight is still furious with Florence Henderson over a comment she made July 2008 regarding his marriage to Adrianne Curry.

Fecal matter is still flying at NBC for it’s decision to keep “Knight Rider” while tossing “My Own Worst Enemy”! {Pile it on!}

Recent British imports pale for networks. Though [ABC’s] “Life On Mars” has apparently grown an audience, [NBC’s] “Kath & Kim” and “Phenomenon”; [CBS’] “The Ex-List”, “Worst Week” and “Eleventh Hour” are flailing and failing. On the other hand, Showtime’s acquisition of “The Secret Diary of a Call Girl” is a ratings hit! Likewise, HBO’s “Summer Heights High” has sweet numbers. The lesson here would seem to be, don’t remake it – replay it!

Who’s bonehead idea was it?! Miley Cyrus’ Sweet-16 at Disneyland was promoted as a bit bash with fans being invited to come to the party – for $250 per person... for four songs and fireworks!?! Disney is infamous for control of it’s licensees; so, I doubt Miley was entirely to blame – but she does have clout and should have objected!

Turner Classic Movies honored Ron Howard’s career December 2008 (“Ron Howard: 50 Years In Film”)... without mentioning his role in “The Music Man”!

Among the honored at Kennedy Center last year were Barbra Streisand, Morgan Freeman, George Jones, Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend.

Maria Arena Bell (daughter-in-law of show creator, Bill Bell) is heralded as the savior of [CBS’s] “The Young and the Restless”. Eric Braeden and Melody Thomas (‘Victor’ and ‘Nikki’ of “Y&R”) would likely agree, heralded as “a daytime super couple” with nearly 30 years experience. Accolades are still being paid to the ring of Bruce Weitz (‘Anthony Zacchara’ of [ABC’s] “General Hospital”) for his exuberant performance in a role that didn’t seem to be needed – but now we can’t seem to do without! And, [ABC’s] “All My Children” is still being praised for reuniting ‘Jesse’ and ‘Angie’!

Following her stage work (with Oliver Platt) in “Guys and Dolls”, Lauren Graham (of “Gilmore Girls”) will produce and star in a new comedy for ABC.

Nathan Fillion (of “Firefly” and [most recently] “Desperate Housewives”) will star as “a famous mystery writer-turned-sleuth ‘Richard Castle’” for ABC’s new series, “Castle”, premiering March 2009. Meanwhile, Joss Whedon (creator of “Firefly”)’s latest series “Dollhouse” (starring Eliza Dushku) is set to premiere 13 February on FOX.

Eartha Kitt died [from colon cancer] 25 December 2008. Her last work, a PBS special, will air February 2009.

John Schneider (of “The Dukes of Hazzard” and “Smallville”) will be featured as ‘Ram Peters’ this month on “Nip/Tuck”.

Is it me? Does the auctioning of “Battlestar Galactica” props, clothes, gear and sets seem like an estate sale... creditors repossessing? Really, what’s the deal?

Donation to charity or not – who’s this fudge-head who paid $5300 [at on-line auction] for a facial tissue used by Scarlett Johansson to evacuate her blocked nasal passages!?! Maybe it wasn’t a fudge-head, could’a been an egg-head with a cloning machine – and a freak for the young lady.

Dates to watch:
09 January – “Monk” premiere
12 January – “Kyle XY” premiere
16 January – “Battlestar Galactica” premiere
18 January – “Big Love” and “The L-Word” premiere
18 January – “Secret Diary of a Call Girl” premiere
18 January - "The United States of Tara" debut
22 January – “Burn Notice” premiere
26 January – “The Closer” premiere and the debut of “Trust Me”
02 February – “Heroes” returning
08 February – “Sonny With A Chance” debut
15 February – “Aaron Stone” debut
xx March – “Saving Grace” premiere
xx March – “The Penguins of Madagascar” debut

Ashley Jones (of “The Bold And The Beautiful”) will be featured in upcoming episodes of “Trust Me”. Plus, the actress is starring in the short-film “His Good Will”, amid much Oscar buzz! And, later this year you’ll see her [“but not ‘all’ of (her)”] in [HBO’s] “True Blood”. All the while, she’s still ‘Bridget’ for the daytime series!!

A popular phrase on “Sex And The City” became a best selling novel; and now, a theatrical film opening 06 February. “He’s Just Not That Into You” will feature Ben Affleck, Jennifer Aniston, Drew Barrymore, Jennifer Connelly, Kevin Connolly, Ginnifer Goodwin, Scarlett Johansson and Justin Long!

“The Power Puff Girls” enter the Boomerang roster 15 January 2009. Then, 19 January 2009, Cartoon Network will debut an all-new episode of “The Power Puff Girls” – the first since 2004!!

SAG will honor James Earl Jones with a Lifetime Achievement Award 25 January 2009.

‘Donna Martin’ is returning to “90210"! That’s right, Tori Spelling has officially been signed for episodes airing this spring. Also, Ms. Spelling is returning to “Smallville” 05 March!

And, look for the return of Stephanie March (‘ADA Cabot’) to [NBC’s] “Law & Order: Special Victim’s Unit” 17 February. Meanwhile, Mariska Hargitay is unavailable for shooting on ‘SVU’ after suffering “a partially collapsed lung while on break”.

Kelly Ripa will appear as ‘Detective Wednesday Jones’ 19 January on [the new] “Electric Company” for PBS! Meanwhile, B.B. King will be featured in [PBS’s] “Soundstage” the week of 28 January 2009.

Were you watching the Giants v. Eagles game, 11 January on FOX? Did you see ‘The Observer’? “Fringe” fans would recognize him. Word is, FOX has plans to place this guy in many real world places during the show’s season... freaky product placement!

John Wells has confirmed he’s received a call from ABC regarding a new future for “ER” – !!

Word is, Showtime is considering a spin-off from “The L-Word” following the series finale this spring. Apparently, the new series would follow an “L-Word” character to prison... will it be ‘Alice’?

Ricardo Montalban died 14 January....

Balthazar Getty’s extra-marital affair is rumored to be the cause of his exit from [ABC’s] “Brothers & Sisters”. Recurring appearances next season have been offered to the actor but he’ll exit this season early in March 2009. Also leaving the show will be Getty’s on-screen wife, Sarah Jane Morris. She’ll finish this season but is not likely to return next year.

P&G kowtowed to “conservative viewers”, treating Noah & Luke’s intimacy as something less proper, something to be hidden, something wrong. Unlike the first time intimacy of their heterosexual couples, even those of a young age, P&G delegated Noah & Luke’s first time to an off-camera event without a word of introduction! {Slime!}

This year’s “General Hospital” disaster will stem from a bio-toxin released during surgery. The epic will begin 28 January.

SOAPNet is dispelling rumors regarding the epitaph of “General Hospital: Night Shift”, declaring it hasn’t be killed at all. And, welcoming other daytime dramas to pitch night-time spin-offs to join the GH series.

Screen Things
From TV Guide 15 December 2008 to 08 February 2009
By Frank Jaymes