The Spirit

More Of The Familiar.

In Central City a hero is bringing hope. Fighting villainy and beating death, he is watching over his beloved and those within her limits. This is his city and he will protect it... for as long as he’s needed.

The scourge of Central City is a man known as The Octopus. He is evil with tentacles spreading throughout the city. His foul scheme will bring him eternal might, enabling him to conquer the world - beginning with this city... but she has a Spirit to protect her.

This is a simply written film, simply performed. Though visually stunning, the direction of this film seemed easily done, without challenge. Entertaining but, essentially, not compelling... still, like the graphic novel series {both the original [created by Will Eisner] and the current reinvention}, this isn’t for your children.

D / PG2

Starring: Gabriel Macht; Samuel L. Jackson; Eva Mendes; and, Dan Lauria
Featuring: Sarah Paulson; Scarlett Johansson; and, Jaime King
With: Louis Lombardi; Stana Katic; Paz Vega; and, Johnny Simmons
Writer: Frank Miller [from the graphic novel by Will Eisner]
Director: Frank Miller

Reel Review by Josef

The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button

Curious and Fascinating.

Benjamin was born under unusual circumstances. He lived an unusual and, in it’s entirety, an extraordinary life. He might have been like anyone else, just an ordinary, a usual, sort of man. And, maybe he was – just an ordinary man born under unusual circumstances... but what a simply extraordinary life he lived.

Brilliantly performed, set, costumed and made-up but still this is not a captivating film. Simply directed and decently written the draw here is [appropriately] - curiosity.

C / PG

Starring: Brad Pitt; Cate Blanchett; Julia Ormand; and, Phyllis Somerville
Featuring: Jason Flemyng; Jared Harris; and, Tilda Swinton
With: Taraji P. Henson and Mahershalalhashbaz Ali
Writer(s): Eric Roth and Robin Swicord [from a short story by F. Scott Fitzgerald]

Reel Review by Josef

Innocent And Fun

What was he thinking?!

When I was a child of the first grade my daily concerns were limited to completing my class work, getting through the lunch line without dropping my lunch money and ignoring the bullies on the playground.

At home my brother and I watched television, listened to old records on an old phonograph, and we played with toys and games. As we grew our television viewing changed, reruns of “The Lone Ranger” was as popular as new episodes of “Bonanza” and “Gunsmoke”. We even watched some “Big Valley”. Of course, there were reruns of “Star Trek” [which we didn’t actually realize were reruns - not at first] and the new episodes of “Planet of the Apes”.

Our toys and games changed too. ‘Go Fish’ became ‘War’ and ‘Rummy’. “Chutes and Ladders” became “Monopoly” and “Aggravation”. Years later we entered our billiards and poker phase. For me, checkers led to chess and backgammon. For me, word finds grew to crosswords which sparked a flare for “Scrabble”. We even graduated from “Pong” to “Atari”, about the time “Six Million Dollar Man” and “The Bionic Woman” were on our must-watch list.

And, my brother and I had our action figures. Though at the time I don’t recall either of us using the word action. They weren’t dolls for boys, no sir. Dolls were for girls, even ‘Barbie’s’ mate, ‘Ken’. G.I.Joe was around even before my brother and I were playing. We played with our G.I. Joe’s {I still have the tackle box!}, our Planet of the Apes, Lone Ranger and Star Trek action figures. We had play sets and vehicles and uniforms and accessories.

I don’t imagine any of it was terribly expensive, even for the time. Mom managed to fill our living room every Christmas and our birthdays weren’t without reward either.

My brother and I did all right when we were children.

When we were ‘old enough’ our cowboy phase entered it’s final stage. We had our very own pistols, holsters and hats! And, we weren’t just waiting for Halloween. In time, we had rifles to go with out pistols. Our bikes became horses. The pistols grew from plastic noise making things to metal things with working cylinders and blasting caps! The rifles too went from plastic to metal, real rifles blasting air.

When ‘S.W.A.T.’ and ‘Emergency’ came on-the-air my brother and I found new heroes to portray. Yup, we role played – without playing cards, dice or boards. We had swords and lasers and shields to enact books we’d read. We had gear to rescue hostages and shoot criminals. We had kits to treat the wounded and ill. With ‘Kung-Fu’ we kicked and chopped and shurikened all evil-doers in our way.

In time we grew-up and the day came when what little remained of our playthings was packed away. I kept “Monopoly” and “Aggravation”. I bought my own backgammon and chess boards. My brother and I bought our very own pool cues, mine is in my bedroom closet today. The Atari and all it’s paraphernalia were passed to oblivion. So too went the action figures and their accessories. Likewise, all the plastic guns and “junk”.

But, the toy box remained. In it we packed away our guns and uniforms. Much of the metal had become chipped or rusted. The felt of the cowboy hats [which my Pop’s parents had bought for us] worn and dirty. The gun belts were frayed. We cleaned it all up as best we could and packed it all away into that toy box, appropriately decorated with a cowboy on horseback. At the time, the toy guns of the day had became all to realistic in appearance. And, toys and games had become more like battle preparation, soldiers marching to war.

In all our youth, I never once thought of having a real gun. Given my brother’s first post high school career, I can’t honestly say I believe he never thought of having a real gun either. But, I can say, that neither of us thought of having a real gun and bringing it to school.

Not once.

Not when were in high school.

Not in middle school.

Especially, not in grammar school.

So it is with great distress and horror that I read this morning’s headline: “6-year-old boy carries gun aboard Batavia school bus”.

I don’t care where he got it. My only thought is why did he have it? Why did he bring it to school? Why doesn’t he have toys and games and action figures? Why is being a child no longer innocent and fun?

Speaking Frankly by Lewis

An Improved Nation

What are they thinking?!

Congress is planning to bail out the failing insurance companies, mortgage lenders and auto makers.

I’m sure I’m not the only person struggling to keep my car in decent shape and fully fueled. I’m not the only one struggling to pay the pharmacy and doctors. Not the only person who’s worrying over my diminishing insurance coverage.

Congress is going to feed those who’ve made our bank accounts worthless but it can’t be bothered to flatten and grade the curbs or adorn the street corners with interactive audio and visual cues. They can’t be bothered to demand State and Local Municipalities insist every building and vehicle open to public business be refit with ramps, low curbs, hydraulic assist doors and lifts with wide [mechanically operated or assisted] doors, lowered counters, larger [screen or sign] fonts, translucent lighting... and a host of other accommodations that are of equal benefit to those who are and are not aged, ill or disabled.

There are still many places which are inaccessible to me and those like me. Short sighted folks fail to consider while they are healthy at this point in time, the time will come when they too are aged, ill or disabled. Hopefully, you will have lived a long and meaningful life before that time has come; however, when your infirmities set in, wouldn’t it be nice if accommodations were already in place?

There is a board of persons [at the State and Federal level] appointed to get such things done – but they’ve been doing little more than talking, discussing, suggesting since 1985! Really, what’s to discuss, just get it done.

Spend the money on something useful to us all.

Don’t reward those who’ve gotten rich making our lives burdensome.

Solving problems is generally much easier than it may seem. Most often the solutions are avoided because greed and fear overwhelm our reason.

Problem: Insurance Companies Failing. Solution: Federalize. Make Medicare the National Health Insurance Carrier, available to everyone! Cease all private health insurance. As to life insurance: a tax exempt ‘end of life’ fund would end the worry of internment expenses. Insuring your debts against death and loss of income is as easy as paying the fee on your loans or credit cards. I know, I’ve ignored the children and unemployed spouses. Surviving spouse will need a job, sell the house and the extra car - live within your new means. Insurance companies simply can’t get the job done because inherent to their business is profit!

Problem: Auto Makers Going Bankrupt. Solution: Make Fewer Cars. It could also be argued there is no need for so many auto makers, to say nothing of so many car models! Auto makers should be concentrating on developing a better automobile, one which is fueled by sources more efficient and globally available. They should also be consolidating with fuel dispensaries (gas stations) to more readily enable the transition from gasoline to a new fuel. Of course, decreasing the salaries and severance of the board and officers is a course of action which would allow the company to maintain it’s workforce without compromising product.

Problem: Mortgage Lenders Bankrupt. Solution: Close The Doors. Really. For years I heard all that prattle about “for what you’re paying for rent you could own your own home”. I know many people who ignored my counsel and soon found themselves with a home they couldn’t keep. Home ownership shouldn’t come with your first five figure annual salary. Homeowners are responsible for their own structures, equipment and land. Home ownership has more expenses than a renter is led to believe, expenses renters take for granted. The fools who bought these easy mortgages received their due – now the villains who sold the mortgages will get theirs!

New worries will crop up. There will be bank failures. A drop in stock value is inevitable. That’s what this country must endure. We must shake out the cobwebs, brush the dandruff away. We’ve gotten stodgy and old. Feeding the rich, stepping on the poor.

We wave our flag and hold tight to our religious texts while raising our fists and pointing our fingers. Often we neglect the tenets from which this nation was born and upon which this nation is supposed to be governed. Many of us are hypocritical. Most of us feel powerless. We compound our problems rather than solving them.

The United States Of America and it’s member states have endured many financial crises over the centuries of it’s life. And, we’ll endure this one.

In the meantime, let’s slow down a bit. Stay home. Keep a savings account rather than a credit card. Be social with one another. Help those in need. Accumulate friends and knowledge rather than things and debt.

Let’s be content with what we have and put profit aside while attending to the building of an improved nation.

Speaking Frankly by Lewis

Better For Everyone

What is he thinking?!

Our newly unelected Governor [with our State Legislature] has presented the 2009 budget weeks in advance – softening the blow or warming the stethoscope.

Earlier this year the Governor vetoed [a recurring act of our Governors] legislation which would have ensured our retired a level playing field in health care insurance. Civil Service retirees have long been at the mercy [not unlike private sector retirees] of their former employers with regard to their health insurance. Our Unions have proposed [for many years now] legislation which would keep our former employers from making changes to our health coverage [including premium share] without making the same changes to the working employees health coverage.

Is it such a difficult thing to see? We are the you - in fewer years than you image, you’ll be among us! Do you really want to be neglected? Of course not; yet, there you are, willing to sacrifice the services to the old, the infirm, the impoverished, and the retired.

We are in this boat with you. Where we go, you will follow.

It’s easy to point your finger. Easy to say, we’re the cause of your problems. But, any medical doctor will tell you the solution isn’t as simple as surgical removal. Many infections and injuries require more thorough care, a long-term, permanent solution is needed to ensure the recovery of the entire body.

A Nobel Prize Winning mathematician correctly theorized the best solution for a group is one which is beneficial to both the group and each of the individuals compromising that group. Equal sacrifice with equal reward. We benefit when you benefit and you benefit when we benefit.

The proposed budget would cut vital health care services and eliminate functional jobs. The surviving services would become burgeoned with the patients once served elsewhere. The remaining jobs would become burdened by an ever increasing work load. That type of nonsense will invariably lead to new problems: stressed employees; at risk patients; inadequate service; greater employee illness; and, more. Each problem will inevitably create a greater fiscal crisis.

The fundamental problem with our economy is money itself. Everyone is held in it’s grip. Money has become a primary need and desire for each of us. Certainly, many would deny it. But, when they stop to think a minute, they’ll have to admit, all philanthropy, charity, politic, lifestyle and pleasure is generate from the use of money. {I could write another piece about the truth in “the root of all evil”.}

That’s the reality of the world.

We and You want and need more money. It’s a vicious cycle, one about which I’ve spoken once or twice before now; so, I repeat myself. I will say that the proposed budget is offensive in it’s targeting of select groups. You want to tax grocery items? I-Pod downloads? Fine. Tax them all! I’m for it. Absolutely. I’m a firm believer in a fixed tax rate being applied to every sale of services or goods and every type of income, no exceptions! I also believe the tax should be shared by Local, State and Federal government, with the lion’s share of the sales tax paid to the Locals, while the lion’s share of the income tax is paid to the Feds.

This nonsense of tacking bits of sales tax to select items or applying fees to items currently taxed is an absolutely insulting practice!

In our society taxes are necessary. Taxes are often the sole source of revenue for our municipalities. {Seriously, why aren’t our utilities [power, water, refuse and communications] owned by Municipal Government? What a huge source of revenue that would be?!} Taxation isn’t a problem, the flexible rate and it’s incongruent application is the problem.

Well, that AND the often overwhelmingly unwise spending of the tax money collected. Though, to be honest, how many of us are completely innocent in that regard? How many of us have often unwisely spent money? Deficit spending didn’t actually begin with Government.

President Reagan [an economist of some note] once demonstrated “trickle down economics”. At the time much ridicule was lauded his way; however, the truth is obvious. Take a look at our own checking accounts. The less we have coming in the less we have to spend. The more we have taken from us the more difficult our lives become. Like a drying water source, we cease to move, we end. In economics, as in life, the burden is passed to another. In turn, each to bear the burden will determine it’s viability and it will either be carried, lessened or dropped. Eventually, everything will hit bottom where it will either be crushed [becoming a foundation for something new] or be lifted again, even carried aloft to the top once more.

Taxation is necessary. The payment of taxes is necessary. As I see it Food Stamp recipients should be exempt from Sales Tax at grocery stores and restaurants. Medicaid and Medicare recipients should be exempt from sales tax at doctors offices and pharmacies. Just as income of less than $18,000 per annum should be the ONLY income tax exemption, while allowing an $1800 deduction from income for each person in the household less than 18 years of age or over 60 years of age. In corporate application, the income deduction would come from the employer payments to the employees pension fund.

I’m used to getting slapped by those who insist charitable contributions should be deductible from income – it’s not charity if you’re receiving a reimbursement!

The burdens are ours to carry or eliminate.

Poverty. Disease. Violence. Ignorance. Intolerance. Hatred. War. Greed.

Will a reduction in school aid serve to eliminate these burdens? Will a reduction in aid to hospitals and nursing homes, while removing services provided by Medicaid and Medicare reinforce these burdens? Will an increase in the Medicare premium eliminate any burden? Will eliminating jobs, reducing the work force, reinforce these burdens?

Things are difficult the world over. The solution can not be found at the edges of the whole. The root must be repaired, tended, our core must be nurtured. In that way something new can be grown, something better... better for everyone!

Speaking Frankly by Lewis

The Day The Earth Stood Still

An improvement over the original.

An object approaching Earth at an incredible speed has humankind preparing for devastation. It doesn’t crash but it does land, in Central Park; now, humankind is preparing for invasion. Humankind is met with it’s first extra-terrestrial species. They are not afraid of us. And, we have no force, no technology, to keep them from completing their agenda. Faced with annihilation, is there any hope for survival?

This story could have gone one of three ways. One way would have been an excellent story, another would have been great. Here we have the easy way out. Still, excellent performances save this film from complete apathy. Jaden Smith’s performance is exceptional!

C / PG2

Starring: Keanu Reeves; Jennifer Connelly; and, Jaden Smith.
Featuring: Kathy Bates and Kyle Chandler
Director: Scott Derrickson
Writers: Ryne Douglas Pearson and David Scarpa

Reel Review by Josef

Steven Moffat Producing

FILM CALENDAR: November – Quantum Of Solace; Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa; and, Bolt. December – The Day The Earth Stood Still; Twilight; The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button; The Tale Of Despereaux; and, The Spirit. Winter 2009 – Coraline; Watchmen. Spring 2009 – Race To Witch Mountain; Dragonball Z; X-Men Origins - Wolverine. Summer 2009 – Star Trek; Terminator - Salvation; Transformers 2; Ice Age - Dawn [/] Dinosaurs; G.I. Joe.

SILVER SCREEN: In addition to writing and directing “Doghouse”, Noel Clarke will be starring in the upcoming “comedy horror flick”, along with Mary Tamm and Christina Cole.

STAGE & TELEVISION: Norman Jacobs and Rita Eisenstein have left Starlog Group to pursue the development of “3-D TV” - without the need of those glasses! Jim Caviezel and Sir Ian McKellen will star in “The Prisoner”, a British mini-series for ITV-AMC, written and executive produced by Bill Gallagher. David Tennant may reprise his ‘Hamlet’ when the RSC production is moved to New York. Christopher Eccleston is playing ‘Fred Noonan’ (Earhart’s navigator) in “Amelia” and is being sought to reprise his “Heroes” role for NBC. “Secret Diary Of A Call Girl” (starring Billie Piper) will return for it’s second season on Showtime, January 2009.

COMICS & ANIMATION: Rawson Thurber will write, direct and produce “Elfquest” for Warner. Marvel is bringing new Iron Man and Hulk animated series’ to Nicktoons. Peter Berg is set to direct and produce “Hercules [The Thracian Wars]” for Universal, from a Ryan Condal script [based upon the Radical Publishing series]. Nu Image - Millennium has acquired the rights to [Robert E. Howard’s] “Red Sonja” with Robert Rodriguez [among other] producing; Douglas Aarniokoski directing; and, Rose McGowan starring. Lawrence Kasden is writing “Robotech” for Warner, Louis Leterrier will direct. Freddie Highmore has been [voice] cast as “Astroboy” for Imagi Studios upcoming film, featuring Nicolas Cage; Donald Sutherland; Bill Nighy; Nathan Lane; and, Eugene Levy. Darguad Media is producing a new “Garfield” for Cartoon Network.

OUTSIDE GENRE: Meg Ryan; Carrie Fisher; Eva Mendes; Jada Pinkett-Smith; Annette Bening; Debra Messing; Cloris Leachman; Bette Midler; and Candice Bergen star in “The Women”, written [from the 1930s Clare Luce play] and directed by Diane English. Robert Downey Jr will play Sherlock Holmes in a film directed by Guy Ritchie for Warner. Kevin McKidd has joined the cast of “Grey’s Anatomy”. Shiri Appleby can be seen in “ER”. Scott Bakula; Ray Romano; and, Andre Braugher set to play “Men of a Certain Age” for TNT.

AWARDS & ACCOLADES: Steven Moffat received a Hugo Award for [a 2007 Doctor Who episode entitled] “Blink”.

VIDEO LOG: A Watership Down [Deluxe Edition] (Warner); Alfred Hitchcock Premiere Collection (MGM); Ben 10 - Season 4 (THE); Charlie Chan Collection - Volume 5 (FOX); Dark City [Director’s Cut] (New Line Cinema); Doctor Who - The War Machines (BBC); Doctor Who - Trial Of A Time Lord (BBC); Doctor Who [Season 4] (BBC); Duckman [Seasons 1 & 2] (Paramount); Fat Albert - Halloween Special (Classic Media); Filmation Super Heroes Adventures (WHV); Final Approach (Genius - RHI); George Of The Jungle [Season 1] (Classic Media); Get Smart [Season 1] (HBO); Ghost Whisperer [Season 3] (Paramount); Goosebumps - A Night In Terror Tower (FOX); Goosebumps - Monster Blood (FOX); Goosebumps - One Day At Horrorland (FOX); He-Man [Masters / Universe] - Volume 3 (Navarre); Heroes [Season 2] (NBC); It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (Warner); Masters / Science Fiction [Complete Series] (Anchor Bay); Medium [Season 4] (Paramount); Nim’s Island (FOX - Walden); Robin Hood [Season 2] (BBC Warner); Robin Of Sherwood [Complete Series] (Acorn Media); Sarah Jane Adventures [Season1] (BBC); Sylvester and Tweety Mysteries [Season 1] (WHV); The Man From U.N.C.L.E. [Complete Series] (Warner); Torchwood [Season 2] (BBC); Transformers [Ultimate Collection] (Hasbro); and, Tru Calling [Complete Series] (FOX); and, Wizards / Waverly Place - Wizard School (Disney).

BOOK LOG: “[Iron Elves 1 -] A Darkness Forged In Fire” by Chris Evans (Pocket); “City At The End Of Time” by Greg Bear (Del Rey); “Doctor Who - Companion Chronicles” (Big Finish);“Doctor Who: Dalek Empire” [editor Nicholas Briggs] (Big Finish); “Doctor Who - The Boy That Time Forgot” (Big Finish); “Doctor Who - The Doomwood Curse” (Big Finish);“Doctor Who: Farewells” [editor Jacqueline Rayner] (Big Finish); “Doctor Who: Short Trips - The Centenarian” [editor Ian Farrington] (Big Finish); “Doctor Who - Sisters Of The Flame” (Big Finish); “Doctor Who: Time Reef” (Big Finish Audio); “Doctor Who: Time Signature” [editor Simon Guerrier] (Big Finish); “Doctor Who - Vengeance Of Morbius” (Big Finish); “Mr. Monk Goes To Germany” by Lee Goldberg (NAL); “Mr. Monk In Space” by Lee Goldberg (Signet); “Nurk - The Strange, Surprising Adventures Of a [Somewhat] Brave Shrew” by Ursula Vernon (Harcourt); and, “Too Many Curses” by A. Lee Martinez (Tor).

LAST FAREWELL: George Carlin (actor; comedian); Don S. Davis (actor); Thomas M. Disch (author); Sandy Howard (producer); and, Michael Turner (graphic artist and novelist).

CLONING THE WARS by Bob Miller: ^To quote Princess Leia, “It’s not over yet.” More Star Wars adventures are coming. The CG-animated “Star Wars: The Clone Wars” [the 7th film of the saga] is set between [Episodes 2 and 3 of George Lucas’ saga] and will lead into the all-new Cartoon Network series bearing the same title.^

HIS NEW MATERIALS by Joe Nazzaro: ^Ever since the climactic publication of “The Amber Spyglass”, fans of Philip Pullman have been clamoring for more of “His Dark Materials”. In 2003, he released “Lyra’s Oxford” a short novel featuring Dark Materials’ heroine. He followed Oxford with “Once Upon A Time In The North”, a prequel to Dark Materials. New Line Cinema recently brought “The Golden Compass” [and adaptation of Pullman’s popular Dark Materials trilogy] to the big screen. And, finally, the wait for a new Pullman HDM novel is over! “The Book Of Dust” is expected to be published in 2009.^

THE ORIGINAL SPIDER-MAN by Pat Jankiewicz: ^Nicholas Hammond is the Amazing Spider-Man! So, he was, when the misunderstood hero made his live-action debut in 1977. Before then, Marvel’s flagship hero had only been seen in cartoons and on “The Electric Company”. “I was the very first Spider-Man. And, it was cool to be him,” declared Hammond. ^

INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCE by pat Jankiewicz: ^Known as “Le Incroyable Hulk” in France and “The Green Beast” in Saudi Arabia, the Hulk has achieved worldwide fame. With a new movie, “The Incredible Hulk” [recently in theaters], it’s time again to consult an eyewitness to genre history. Kenneth Johnson , producer-creator of “The Incredible Hulk” television series [as well as “V”; “Alien Nation”; and, “The Bionic Woman”] is responsible for much fan favorite television – which, like Gene Roddenberry’s creation, has remained popular and grown into something new for modern audiences.^

SECRETS OF ‘VOYAGE TO THE BOTTOM OF THE SEA’ by Mark Phillips: ^ A thief among the cast. That’s just one of the many secrets of the [1964-1968] television series developed from Irwin Allen’s [1961] film. Casting of Richard Basehart and David Hedison almost didn’t happen. Why was the [rarely syndicated] first season shot in black and white? Hailed as “juvenile”, skeptical writers needed some persuasion to develop scripts. ^

IN THE MIDNIGHT HOUR by Benjamin Cook: ^”Every year, you wait for it to fail. Every year, you wait for the ratings to die. Because, no good luck lasts forever - no matter how hard you work at it,” said Russell Davies, introducing his reasoning for leaving “Doctor Who”. Having resurrected the popular television series after a 16-year hiatus and turning it into another commercial and critical success, “It’s achieved everything I wanted it to achieve. I’ve pushed it as far as I can. [Now,] it’s time for a completely new eye.” He’ll produce four specials for 2009 before departing the program. The fifth season will debut in 2010 with Steven Moffat producing.

Screen Things

By Frank Jaymes

October 2008

With Material From Doctor Who Magazine

24 Is Returning

Paul Newman (born 1925) passed away 26 September.

FOX’s upcoming series, “Virtuality” [featuring Joy Bryant; Pablo Cantillo; Clea DuVall; and, Gene Farber], is being heralded as “Melrose Place” in space.

Miley v. Selena? Said Selena, “... completely blown out of proportion. ... There’s no feud.”

Jeanne Cooper of “The Young And The Restless” is now 80 years old and has signed a new contract with the daytime drama, keeping her working until 2011. Said the actress, “I still have twenty years to go before I hit one-hundred. I’ve lived a long time and seen a-lot – but I ain’t seen it all yet.”

Clint Eastwood’s “Changeling” featured Eddie Alderson of [ABC’s] “One Life To Live”.

ABC ready to rewrite storylines should any of the ‘Housewives’ become pregnant.

Minnie Driver gave birth to her son (Henry) 05 September. Baby’s first picture was proudly displayed on the actress’ ‘My Space’ page. She’s still mum about the father.

Jesse L. Martin (formerly of “Law & Order”) may soon sign for [NBC’s] “The Philanthropist”. And, Selma Hayek has joined the cast of [NBC’s] “30 Rock”, in a recurring role.

Perhaps Barbara Walters and company should rename their show “The Views” – or stick to a single point of view {as suggested by the present title of the ABC morning show}!

Tamara Braun has joined [ABC’s] “All My Children” for role poised to “make daytime TV history”.

Irene Dailey (‘Aunt Liz’ of “Another World”) died 24 September after a battle with cancer.

SOAPnet fans applaud the second season of “General Hospital: Night Shift”. And, like their daytime counterparts, herald the show as “indisputably superior” to it’s daytime sister.

Networks realize the significance of DVR viewership, creating new ratings competition and statistics. Overall, this season has been a ratings disappointment for most series. Even long-running series have had significant ratings decline. Networks have declared a production retooling during December, hoping to inject new life into their series after the December and year-end hoopla.

Jon Lindstrom [‘Kevin’ of “General Hospital”] has signed-on-to portray ‘Craig Montgomery’ for “As The World Turns”. He’s the fourth actor in three years to play the part!

Eileen Herlie, who played ‘Myrtle’ on [ABC’s] “All My Children” for {OMG!} 32 years [following stage and film work] was stricken with pneumonia and died 08 October.

Renowned daytime television writer [and series creator], James Reilly died 12 October following cardiac surgery.

Gillian Anderson gave birth to her second son 15 October.

Alyson Hannigan and [her husband] Alexis Denisof are expecting their first child Spring 2009.

Josh Henderson has departed [ABC’s] “Desperate Housewives” to portray ‘Sean’ on [CW’s] “90210".

Thomas Dekker was unable to accept the role of ‘Marco’ in the upcoming “Fame” [redux] after FOX renewed “[Terminator:] The Sarah Connor Chronicles” for a full 2009 season.

Fans and critics unite – all rave for Bruce Weitz as ‘Anthony Zacchara’ on [ABC’s] “General Hospital”!

Apparently, the much heralded return of “the real Greenlee” was not-so-much worth the effort. Rebecca Budig is leaving “All My Children” “in early 2009", poor writing for the role has been cited as the cause of the actress’ departure.

“Private Practice” renewed for 2009 but “Pushing Daisies” and “Dirty Sexy Money” are turned toward ABC’s chopping block. “Gossip Girl” and “90210" save The CW from impending doom. “House” and “Fringe” return FOX to Fall Season contender status [but it’s still the January champ]! The deal with Ford Motor Company may be the only reason [NBC’s] “Knight Rider” has been junked. But, disappointments like [the now canceled] “My Own Worst Enemy”; “Kath & Kim”; and, “Crusoe” have caused NBC to reconsider it’s decision not to produce pilots for prospective series.

Diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and undergoing chemotherapy, Patrick Swayze is nevertheless working on the set of [A&E’s] “The Beast”. It’s been reported that he’s only missed “a day and a half or work”.

Described as “disgruntled”, Katherine Heigl is being “allowed to exit” [ABC’s] “Grey’s Anatomy” at the end of this season. But, come January, Tyne Daly is joining the cast, in what may become a recurring role!

The CW has confirmed they are “exploring development” of a new “Melrose Place” for 2009.

Christina Applegate – cancer free and back to work.

ABC, NBC, CBS and {!!} SOAPnet all declined to broadcast next year’s daytime Emmy Awards ceremony.

“True Blood” fans may clamor for the musical opening but there wish for “Bad Things” (by Jace Everett) may never be fulfilled. The album [of which the song is part] “tanked miserably” when released and is now “out of print”. Everett’s label dropped him shortly after the album’s release; however, [creator, producer] Alan Ball’s choice to use the song for the opening of [HBO’s] “True Blood” may give Jace Everett “a second chance”.

Cancelled by FOX, “King Of The Hill” is now of interest to ABC. In the meantime, [Cartoon Network’s] ‘Adult Swim’ will be lead by “King” beginning January 2009.

Michael Crichton (born 1942) [writer, producer, director], stricken with cancer, died 04 November.

Though not-yet-confirmed, word is that Noah Wyle, George Clooney and Eriq La Salle will return to [NBC’s] “ER” “at the end of the [season]”. Another word is, Noah Wyle’s successful TNT telefilm series (“The Librarian”) may become a major motion picture.

Miley [Cyrus] and Emily [Osment] due to hit the big screen April 2009 with “Hannah Montana: The Movie”.

In an effort to keep viewers tuned-in, FOX is spearheading a new advertising trail – fewer commercials (“about five minutes per hour”) at “premium” rates. I can tell you from experience, trying to skip the DVR ahead 60 seconds, is too fine a task for human fingers and modern electronics. You do find yourself watching one or two quick commercials!

Advertisers, desperate to have their ads seen {honestly, isn’t all this dang competition tiresome?!} are turning to new forms of message transmission: “Subsidized TV” [think Ford and “Knight Rider”]; “Product Placement” [like it’s done on the big-screen]; “On-line ads” [tracking, spying and SPAM].... {I find little use for commercials. I want something, need something, I go to the store and I buy it. Is it really worth the time and effort to compare prices store-to-store? And, how effective are quick innovations – is it necessary to have a new model or design every twelve months?!}

A milestone coming to [CBS’] “The Young And The Restless” – Twenty Years At The Top! It’s true. Since 1988 Y&R has been the most watched daytime drama! {Who knew?!} Following the writer’s strike [of 2007], the show’s producers [writer-producer] Lynn Marie Latham [who’d “decimated the show”] “was not allowed back”. To replace her, the network turned to Paul Rauch and Maria Arena Bell [daughter-in-law of series creators Bill and Lee Bell]. Since the pair took the reins, the mood on the set has been more “relaxed”. Bell and Rauch are determined to “get back disillusioned viewers” by restoring the romance, character and integrity they’ve demanded.

Drake Hogestyn (‘John’) and Deidre Hall (‘Marlena’) have been fired from “Days Of Our Lives” following NBC’s “budget slashing”. Peter Reckell (‘Bo’) and Kristian Alfonso (‘Hope’) have taken a pay cut rather than accept dismissal. “Messy management” and “overspending” threaten the life of the venerable NBC daytime drama. It is currently under contract for only eighteen months.

The Miser brothers from “The Year Without A Santa Claus” finally have a show of their own (13 December)!

Jack’s back! [FOX’s] “24" is returning 11 January 2009...!!

Screen Things

By Frank Jaymes

December 2008

With material from TV Guide Magazine

Bolt

A Wonderful Disney Adventure!

With his “person”, Penny, a genetically enhanced dog, named “Bolt”, fight the forces of evil. Ever vigilant. Ever valiant. Ever victorious – until now. Penny has been abducted by the “green-eyed man” and Bolt is imprisoned... CUT!

Penny’s just a girl, starring in a hit television show. Bolt is her beloved dog, a dog completely unaware that everything he’s ever known is not real. Believing Penny has actually been abducted, the brave canine will venture beyond the stage lot he’s called home for five years.

In the real world, Bolt will overcome obstacles, confront challengers, enlist new allies and finally face the truth of his existence. Penny is his person and, super-powered or not, he must find her!

Well directed and performed, this film is brilliantly “drawn” and excellently written. In “Real 3D”, it’s a stunning piece of work!

B / G

Starring: Miley Cyrus and John Travolta
Featuring: Susie Essman; Malcolm McDowell; and, Mark Walton

Writers: Dan Fogelman and Chris Williams
Directors: Doug Bennett; Byron Howard; and, Chris Williams

 

Reel Reviews
By Frank Jaymes

A Christmas Story

A Delightful Surprise!

It’s that time of year when all children’s thoughts turn toward the receiving of a special gift. And, so it is with Ralphie; who, determined to get a Range Rider BB Gun [“with a thing to tell time built right into the stock”], has a plan to ensure that rifle will be his for Christmas. Alas, fate would seem to be against him [“You’ll put your eye out, kid.”]. Can Ralphie overcome cruel fate and it’s allies? Wish fulfilled or not, this will be one Christmas Ralphie will never forget.

This live-stage production is remarkably written and brilliantly set. Excellent performances by Eoin Dennis; Gavin Flood; Robert Krakovski; Lanie MacEwan; Brigitt Markusfeld; and, Sage Melcher ensure audience enjoyment!

B / PG

Starring: Eoin Dennis; Gavin Flood; Robert Krakovski; and, Lanie MacEwan
Featuring: Alison Banks; Eric Michael Gillett; Brigitt Markusfeld; and, Sage Melcher

Written by: Philip Grecian
Directed by: Mark Cuddy

Reel Reviews

By Frank Jaymes

And Trading Cards

THE TOP TEN: Uncanny X-Men; Astonishing X-Men; Avengers; Batman; Mighty Avengers; Wolverine; Thor; Justice League; and, Buffy (The Vampire Slayer).

THE SPLASH PAGE: Following the Skrull’s "Secret Invasion" there will be a "Dark Reign" in Marvel’s universe. June 2009 will feature the blockbuster debut of "Transformers: Revenge [o/t] Fallen" on the silver screen – but IDW will publish the prequel stories beginning December 2008! SCI-FI’s "Eureka" will be an ongoing series for Boom Studios. Warren Ellis and Avatar Press are bringing "Frankenstein’s Womb" to a book shelf near you this winter. "Serenity" fans be sure to order your "Serenity Valley" lithograph. Frank Miller’s [film] "The Spirit" is coming to a theater near you - be ready with your very own set of trading cards featuring exclusive images from the film.

DARK HORSE COMICS: Issues Available Include – Buffy (TVS) 21; Conan [The Cimmerian] 6; Hellboy: Wild Hunt 1 (of 8); Rex Mundi 15; STW: Knights / Republic 36; STW: Legacy 31; and, The Goon 31. Other Items Available Include – Eden 11 (SC) {$13}; Eerie Archives (HC) {$50}; Indiana Jones [a/t] Tomb [o/t] Gods (SC) {$15}; Oh My Goddess 11 (SC) {$11}; and, Savage Sword / Conan 5 (SC) {$18}. Merchandise Available Including – Buck Rogers Statue [from ReelArt] (Ltd Ed) {$189}; [Disney’s] Hannah Montana Photo Charms; [Disney’s] High School Musical Photo Charms; The Spirit Movie Bust (Ltd Ed) {$60}; and, Vampire Hunter D Bust (Mono-color Variant) {$75}.

DC COMICS: With the traitor revealed, The Dark Trinity will recruit a new ally and "take the newly ordered world by storm!" {#s 27 - 31} A great hero will fall in the battle against Superboy Prime, while the Time Trapper is making his move against the Legion founders! {Final Crisis: Legion [/] Worlds 4 (of 5)}.

Following the passing of the "anti-Kryptonian laws", 100,000 angry citizens with Superman’s powers [but none of his humanity] lash out across the planet! {#683} Superman vs. Superman with the fate of the Tangent world hanging in the balance! {#10 (of 12)} While Superman is attempting to free Brainiac’s abductees, Lex Luthor is conducting a few experiments on the menace of Krypton. {Action Comics 872} Kandor has been "rocked to it’s core" and Supergirl may have been pushed over the edge! {#36} Superman’s loss has become Batman’s boon, with only Nightwing standing in the way of the Dark Knight’s super-powered crusade, while Zatanna is attempting to solve the mystery! {#55}

Dennis O’Neil is returning to The Dark Knight, weaving a tale of Gotham City without it’s "beloved protector" - in the wake of the hero’s death, will Gotham fall!?! {Detective Comics 851 & Batman 684} Batman undercover in Arkham as Commissioner Gordon is hunted by a rogue police officer! {... Confidential 24} Christmas in Gotham and Midnight has vowed to "make the season bright" - with blood! {... After Midnight 8 (of 12)} In the wake of Batman’s death, Nightwing and Batgirl clash, with the fate of The Outsiders at stake! {#14} Face-to-face with her father, Batgirl’s "road to redemption" is at an end. {#6} "Red Robin is revealed" and Spoiler must prevent a daring jailhouse rescue but where is Robin?! {#181} Nightwing vs. Two-Face - inside Arkham!?! {#151} After their bout with Joker, The Birds of Prey take a much needed - vacation?! {#125} What is the secret of the strange and beautiful world to which Green Lantern and Phantom Stranger have been summoned – a secret powerful enough to overcome The Stranger!? {Brave / Bold 20} With Connor and Mia heading out on-their-own, Green Arrow and his bride keep the city safe alone - for the first time. {#15} With Genocide still on the loose and Wonder Woman recovering from her failure to stop him, the Amazons return home as Athena is made a promise which will "change the landscape of [the universe] forever"! {#27}

The Teen Titans hold a recruitment drive. {#66} Titans Tower is locked-down as the team hunt a traitor! {#8} The power of the Star Sapphires has intensified; a "life altering" new law is burned into the Book of Oa; and, the Green Lantern Corps battle for the soul of a child! {#31} Unraveling the mystery of the crimson power, Green Lantern will face a "prophecy all his own". {#37} Dr. Light’s "mortal remains" have been stolen and the Justice League has "vowed to bring down" those responsible. {#28} With Alex Ross painting the pages, this is the "shocking end" to the sequel of "Kingdom Come"! {Justice Society 22} Timber Wolf berserk; Lightning Lad comforted by the president; Phantom Girl "catastrophically injured"; and, an espionage squad risking death - the "Universal Annihilation War" has begun!! {Legion 49}

Vigilante has returned to the streets of NYC to mete out justice and unravel a "Super Hero conspiracy". {#1} Blue Beetle v. Polaris - will this be the end of our hero!? {#34} Dan Jurgens has retaken the reins of Booster Gold, kicking-off a tale which may mean an end to the time continuum! {#15} "Super powered fanatics" are murdering doctors "in the name of God", it’s a shocking and controversial case for Manhunter. {#37} Without powers or family, The Flash must face the end - alone! {#247}

Contending with a crazed leader in the midst of a battle royal - Trang is in labor! {War [/] Time Forgot 8 (of 12)} A "former lawman, brought low" has a plan to avenge himself upon Jonah Hex. {#38} "A noir murder mystery", The Spirit is on the case in Cambodia! {#24}

Titles For Kids Include – Ben 10: It’s Hero Time (TPB) {$15}; Cartoon Network Block Party; Looney Tunes; Super Friends; Supergirl: In The 8th Grade; and, Tiny Titans.

Other Items Available Include – Air 5; American Splendor: Another Dollar (TPB) {$15}; [The] Authority 5; DCU Holiday Special 2008 {$6}; Fables 79; Gen13 25; Haunted Tank 1; Hellblazer 250; House / Mystery 8; Jack / Fables 29; Madame Xanadu 7; Northlanders 13; Push 3; Scalped 24; Stormwatch PHD 17; The X-Files 2; Top Ten [Season Two] 3; Unknown Soldier 3; Wildcats 6; Wintermen Winter Special [2008]; and, Young Liars 10.

Merchandise Available Including – Saga / Swamp Thing [Book] 1 (HC) {Advanced Solicitation, $25}; and, Tokyo Days, Bangkok Nights (TPB) {Advanced Solicitation, $20}.

IMAGE COMICS: Issues Available Include – Astounding Wolf-Man 11; Brit 11; Cyblade 3; Dragon Prince 4; Invincible 57; Jack Staff 20; Savage Dragon 143; Spawn 187; The Darkness: Lodbrok’s Hand; The Sword 14; and, Witchblade 123. Other Items Available Include – American Flagg [Vol] 1 (TPB) {$20}; Armageddon Now: World War III [Book 1] (HC) {$25}; Girls [Vol] 2 [: Emergence] (TPB) {$15}; and, Noble Causes [Vol] 8 [: Star Crossed] (TPB) {$16}. Merchandise Available Including – Rising Stars [Compendium] Collection (HC) {Advanced Solicitation, $100}.

MARVEL COMICS: Issues Available Include – Amazing Spider-Girl 27; Amazing Spider-Man 579 - 580 - 581; Avengers 48; Avengers: Initiative 20; Avengers Invaders 7 (of 12); Cable 9; Captain America 45; Captain Britain [and MI-13] 8; Daredevil 114; Dark Reign: New Nation 1 (of ?); Eternals 8; [New] Exiles 16; Exiles Annual [2008]; Guardians [/] Galaxy 8; Ghost Rider 30; Hulk 9; Incredible Hercules 124; Invincible Iron Man 8; Iron Fist 21; Moon Knight 25; Ms. Marvel 34; Nova 20; Runaways 5; Secret Invasion: Dark Reign; Secret Invasion: Requiem; She-Hulk 38; Squadron Supreme 8; Uncanny X-Men 505; War Machine 1; What If: Fallen Son; What If: Newer Fantastic Four; What If: Secret Wars; What If: Spider-Man - Back In Black; Wolverine 70; Wolverine: Origins 31; Wonderful Wizard Of Oz 1 (of ?); X-Factor 38; X-Force 10; X-Infernus 1 (of ?); X-Men [: Legacy] 219; and, Young X-Men 9. Other Items Available Include – Anita Blake - Vampire Slayer [2]: Guilty Pleasures (TPB); Captain America: The Chosen (TPB); Hedge Knight 2 [: Sworn Sword] (TPB); and, Marvel Illustrated: The Three Musketeers (HC). Merchandise Available Including – Avengers Invaders Poster (by Alex Ross); and, Wonderful Wizard Of Oz Poster.

FROM THE BACK: Titles Available Include – Absolution; Angel [After The Fall]; Anne Steelyard [1] - Garden Of Emptiness (SC) {$16}; Arabian Nights [- Adventures Of Sinbad]; Archie & Friends; Bart Simpson Comics; City Of Dust; Classics Illustrated [Deluxe] - Frankenstein (HC) {$19}; Courtney Crumrin [1] - Night Things (SC) {$12}; Courtney Crumrin [2] - Coven Of Mystics (SC) {$12}; Courtney Crumrin [3] - Prince Of Nowhere (SC) {$7}; [Alan Moore’s] (The) Courtyard {FC}; Crossed; Doctor Who; Dread Force; [Jim Butcher’s] (The) Dresden Files; [Terry Moore’s] Echo; Elixir (SC) {$15}; Eureka; Fall Of Cthluhu; Fallen Angel; Farscape; Fire And Brimstone; Fist Of Justice; Flash Gordon; Forgotten Realms; [Dean Koontz’s] Frankenstein - Prodigal Son; [Warren Ellis’] Frankenstein’s Womb; Freedom Formula; Galaxy Quest; Galveston; Gettysburg (SC) {$10}; Ghost Whisperer; Ghostbusters; Gold Digger; Gravel; Grimm Fairy Tales; Heresy; Hexed; [Allen Moore’s] Hypothetical Lizard (TPB) {BW}; Jobnik (SC) {$18}; Judo Girl; Kade: Rising Sun; Land Of Oz [Manga]; Lone Ranger; Lost At Sea (SC) {$12}; (The) Man With No Name; [Patricia Briggs’] Mercy Thompson - Homecoming; Neozoic; Ninja High School; Red Sonja; Sabrina; Scarlet Veronica; Seekers Into The Mystery [Volume 1] (TPB) {$16}; Speed Racer; Shortcomings (HC) {$20}; Simpsons Super Spectacular; Sonic (The Hedgehog); Sonic X; Star Trek; Star Trek - Next Generation; Stardust Kid (TPB) {$15}; Starship Troopers; Sword Of Dracula; [C.E. Murphy’s] Take A Chance; Tales [/] Crypt; Terminator; The Circle [3] - White (SC) {$12}; The Corps; The Elementals; The Imaginaries; The Remnant; The Last One (TPB) {$25}; Total Anarchy - The Legacy of Vampi; Transformers; Twilight Zone; [Disney’s] Uncle Scrooge; Victoria’s Secret Service (TPB) {$18}; Vincent Price Presents; Walt Disney’s Comics & Stories; War At Ellsmere; [George R.R. Martin’s] Wild Cards; Wonderland (HC) {$20}; Yeti vs. Vampire; Zen (Intergalactic Ninja); and, Zorro... plus, a vast assortment of apparel; books; imports; magazines; models; novelties; posters; prints; statues; toys; and, trading cards!!

Frank Words
By Frank Jaymes
October 2008
With material from Previews Catalog

Frost / Nixon

A brilliant live-stage production.

The year was 1977. Former U.S. President Richard M. Nixon had yet to answer accusations which brought about his resignation from office August 1974. A Presidential pardon [extended by President Gerald Ford] and three years of "exile" did little to soothe the agony of a people in need of answers, people demanding justice.

Enter David Frost. A television host whose program ran in the U.S. from 1969 to 1972. He was a diminutive celebrity, if a celebrity at all, in the United States. But, in England and Australia he was a prominent interviewer known to move from conversation to confrontation quickly without clemency.

With a series of interviews the American public would finally have a small measure of justice... and a former President would be convicted.

This is a well written play, brilliantly performed [especially by Keith Jochim, Jim Wisniewski; and, Jeff Talbott] and set. Sparse decoration and few props combined with short scenes and brief narrations keep the audience hungry, salivating for the interviews... waiting to devour the legacy of a President of The United States.

B / PG2

Starring: Keith Jochim; Jim Wisniewski; Jeff Talbott; and, Jeremy Holm.
Featuring: David Anzuelo; Celeste Ciulla; and, Keith Merrill.

Writer: Peter Morgan
Director: Steven Woolf

Reel Reviews
By Frank Jaymes