American Hustle

For the last several weeks, the trailers for "American Hustle" have left me ambivalent about seeing it in theatres.  The other night, I saw a Richard Roeper review, in which he raved about how awesome it was, and that the DeNiro cameo was possibly some of the best ten minutes of his acting career.

After seeing it this afternoon, man did I feel deceived.

I really should have stuck with my gut on this.

I think that the story itself was interesting, but the directing and editing was all wrong, and they actors were cast in the wrong parts.  As much as I love Christian Bale, there's no way in hell he should be nominated, let alone win an Oscar for this performance.  I kept hearing about how he should be in the running, and I'm hear to tell you right now, no, he shouldn't be.  In fact, I think he was miscast.  I think they all were.

Bradley and Christian needed to switch.  I'm sorry, I just couldn't buy Bale as this balding, gut having, uncouth con artist.  If he were a suave, Thomas Crowne kind of con artist, okay, but this was just wrong.  He's a great actor, but it just didn't fly.  Bradley could have done it.  On that same token, I didn't buy Bradley as an FBI Agent.  I think that role would have been better suited for Bale.

I think Amy Adams is fabulous, but she and Jennifer Lawrence needed to switch roles in order for the whole thing to work on screen.  I think Adams was capable of playing either role, but Lawrence was not up to snuff.  That being said, Lawrence was given the harder role, in certain respects, even though she had less screen time.  The role just didn't hold a lot of weight with her at the helm.  Adams' role required an English accent, so perhaps Lawrence couldn't have done the part?  I don't know that for certain, but her range just was not there as Bale's wife.

The film also started out slow.  So slow that I caught a few z's after the first thirty minutes.  It's rare indeed for me to fall asleep during a film, regardless of how tired I am.  I felt like Scorese or Soderbergh should have directed this.  I felt like the director, David O. Russell, was way out of his depth on this one.

In short, this is a film better served as a rental, or waiting for it to hit HBO or something.

Diary of a Fangirl: The Wolf of Wall Street

"The Wolf of Wall Street" brought back a boatload of nostalgia.

I love Scorsese, and I love DiCaprio, so I was 99% sure I was going to love their latest project.  After viewing it, I can tell you that was a complete understatement.

"Goodfellas" is not only my favorite Scorsese film, but my favorite film, period.  "The Wolf of Wall Street" felt like a total throwback to that film, except all of the violence is replaced with nudity and drug use.  Even the appearance of Jon Bernthal (who, omg, is so awesome you guys), made me think of DeNiro, and tied the whole thing together for me.

Anyway, this film is based on the true story of Jordan Belfort, who makes his start on Wall Street, loses his job, goes into the penny trades and creates a mega millions stock company with his rag tag friends.

Back to the "Goodfellas" connection--

A lot of the styling of shots and narration also harken to Scorese's early 90s masterpiece.  DiCaprio as Belfort tells a good chunk of story to the audience with voice overs, and at times, breaks the fourth wall and talks directly to the audience (as Ray Liotta did at the close of "Goodfellas").  Even Leo's on-screen wife, actress Cristin Milioti, reminded me a bit of Lorraine Bracco.  And it's a period piece.  I'd have to watch it again to see if there was a gradation in color throughout the piece.

DiCaprio also doesn't work alone--he has a great supporting cast accompanying him.

All in all, I give it damn near four stars (I want to say between 3.5 and 3.75 out of 4), and it's definitely worth the watch.  And a rewatch.  If Leo doesn't get an Oscar for this, I just don't even know.

Diary of a Fangirl: Fast & Furious 7

The writers and producers of "Fast & Furious 7" are working frantically (I assume) in tweaking the script to accommodate the tremendous loss they've been dealt, while honoring both the character of Brian and Paul Walker's final appearance in the franchise.  Being a writer, I couldn't help but ponder the course of action they'd take.

Paul was only able to finish about half of the scenes he was supposed to do.  Therefore, I'm thinking the start of this film may very well begin with a funeral--Brian's (though it's not explicitly said).  Then the film will move into the initial storyline, with Paul featured prominently, and then the bad news happens midway--the plan was botched, and they lose him.

The film then takes us back to the opening (or shortly thereafter), and the team makes the decision to avenge him, and the story picks up from there.

Just a thought.  No clue which route they'll take...but clearly, it's been on my mind.

"The Best Man Holiday," Films, Black Films, and Wtfery

This started as a Facebook post but kept getting longer and longer.  That's when I realized that it's been damn near three months since I've posted anything here.

Sorry...

Anyway, a friend  linked to this on her FB page, and I have to say it pissed me off so much that it brought me out of blogging hibernation.

The article's writer, Scott Bowles of USA Today called it "race themed," and compared it to popular films this year that were in fact race themed (whereas this one was not). "The Best Man Holiday" is a holiday film/friend reunion, and not a "racially charged" film or a "black" film, and by no means should be compared to "Fruitvale Station" or "12 Years A Slave" or "The Butler."

Tangent: As a side note "12 Years a Slave" shouldn't be compared to those two films either, for it is this decades "Schindler's List," and it may be another 20 years before we get to see a film of this magnitude.

I...am at a loss for words, is what I am.  Richard Roeper compared it to an updated "Big Chill."  I like his reviews.  And after seeing the film for myself, I think he was spot on.  The film is clever, funny, fresh, and worth the ten bucks at the theatre.  All without special effects, 3D glasses or an IMAX theatre.  Malcolm Lee does a wonderful job at telling the stories of several friends getting together over Christmas Break.  Additionally, Terrence Howard steals the show as the resident Lothario.  A lovely actor, but I'd forgotten how funny he can be.

Anyway, if you haven't seen it (and I don't care what color you are), go see it.  You'll enjoy it, cause it's a well done story about people (who happen to be black).  If you have seen it, go see it again, and metaphorically bitch slap people like this dude in the face.

Diary of a Fangirl: Miley Cyrus' Grotesque VMA Performance

There are many articles popping up (such as this one), stating that Miley Cyrus is privileged and shouldn't be using aspects of "black" culture.

Here's what I think: I have to say that I don't like the idea that those particular things are associated  with black culture.  Sure they're part of some kind of culture--ghetto culture or ratchet culture--but not black. 

Oh Robin--how in the blue hell did you let yourself get roped into this grotesque and pathetic performance?

As a black woman, I reject that as an image of black people.  If Miley wants to let her tongue hang out and look ratchet and stank as hell, it only makes her look like a fool, and I for one feel sorry for her, not offended that she's privileged and wandering into "black" culture.  She just looks pathetic, IMO, and to many others. I don't think anyone sees it as her treading on black culture, which is why I hate articles like this. Like that whole thing when "video hoes" were considered degrading to all women.  Uh, no they weren't.  They were a certain sect who felt comfortable being objectified, and do not represent the rest of us.

And to say that she's acting/dressing ghetto "...without having to deal with the racism and racialization that black women live with every day. In short, she can imagine that she is being "ghetto" without having any concept of what living in a ghetto would really mean."  Well damn, I'm not from the ghetto either with no substantial experiences of what it is like to live in one.  And you know what?  There's a whole lot of black people who don't have those experiences either.  Know what else I don't have an experience in?  Being ratchet. Let Miley have it--I'm not going to petition for that. I'm also not oppressed by that.

Diary of a Fangirl: Ben Affleck is the new Batman

Ben Affleck has signed on to be the new Bruce Wayne.  Or at the very least, he'll be donning the cape as The Dark Knight.

I...

When I saw the ending of "The Dark Knight Rises," and the clever way Nolan went about incorporating Robin without calling him that or putting him in tights, and then giving him the keys to the Batcave, I had such great high hopes for Joseph Gordon-Levitt rising Batman out of the ashes and watching over the city.  It was such a perfectly perfect set up.

And now this.

I couldn't bear to watch "Daredevil" all the way through...and unlike many, I do think that Ben Affleck can act, if given the right project.  He's grown so much as a writer, director and actor over the years, and I look forward to great things from him.  I just don't feel that this will be one of them.

However, I didn't have hopes or believe in Nolan's casting of Hathaway as Catwoman either, so maybe this will work.  Not the way I want it to by any stretch of the imagination, but maybe it won't be terrible.  Hell, there's not a damned thing I can do about it anyway, so might as well wait and see what happens.

Diary of a Fangirl: Breaking Bad Final Days

I saw the season premier yesterday, and also watched Breaking Bad: Talking Bad.  One of the things mentioned is will Walt be killed in the end, and will he have to kill Jesse?

Here's my take:

* Walt can't/won't kill Jesse.  Jesse knows that Walt had Mike bumped off, and Walt desperately wants him to believe otherwise.  We've seen Walt be on the rag many a time with Jesse when he was angry/frustrated/ego tripping, but we've also seen Walt kill for Jesse.  He was jealous of Mike and Jesse's relationship, of the controlling relationship between Jesse and...damn, what's her name?  All I got his "Apology Girl" at the moment.  Jane--right.  He poisoned a little boy to get Jesse back on his side.  He fell into a deep depression and took pain killers on the eve of Walt Jr.'s birthday because of a fight he and Jesse had.  Walt will do anything to keep Jesse by his side.  He finally even called him "son" in this season premier.  There's not a snowball's chance in hell that Walt will do anything to hurt Jesse, and I love him for that.  Damn near everyone else is expendable except for Jesse (and his kids and even Skyler).

* If Walt is to die, I feel like it'll be by Jesse's hands.  Jesse is the only one who can touch him.  I don't think he really will though...but if he did, I could see it.  Only cancer or Jesse will be able to stop Walt.

* I think the ricin is for Hank, sadly.  No effin' clue about the M16, though.

* Instead of "Remember My Name," I feel as if that promo poster should be "Say My Name," cause that was a bad ass moment and monologue last season.

* I don't think the title Breaking Bad is a reference to Walt becoming the villain...I think it's a reference in a break in the system, as well as Walt.  It has to be about the deconstruction of evil-doings.  It was always the intention for Walt to do a 180 and become a Scarface/Kingpin kind of guy.  So what needs to be broken then?  The evolution, that's what.  In the flash-forwards, Walt looks unraveled and unkempt.  He seems to be going to last resorts.  His family is gone, his home is gone, and his anonymity is gone...That's what the true "break" is about.  Like how the mobster lifestyle is presented in "Goodfellas" from start to finish.  You think it's about one thing, then it evolves, fades and deteriorates (literally) into something else by the end of it. Even the color grade changes to signify the reality of the situation.  "Growth, decay.  Transformation."  We've seen Walt in a decay state for some time now.  This season is about transformation.  Hell, he's even wearing mostly white now in all of his scenes.  What will he ultimately change into?

So excited about this season.

Diary of a Fangirl: Daria, the High School Reunion

So, I saw this fake trailer for a Daria movie:

I love the idea, but disagree hardcore on the casting.

Here's my line up for a film:

Daria Morgendorffer: Anna Chlumsky.  I don't know why--I've seen her around in stuff and it just feels right.  She'd need a hair rinse, of course.  Or Leelee Sobieski.

Quinn Morgendorffer: Scarlett Johansson?  Isla Fisher might be better suited.  Gosh, this is a tough one.  And, for the record, I do an awesome Quinn impersonation (for certain phrases, anyway).

Jake Morgendorffer: Bryan Cranston, hands down.

Helen Morgendorffer: Diane Lane.  She'd be flawless in that role

Jane Lane: Rooney Mara.  Had to think long and hard on that one.

Trent Lane: Joseph Gordon-Levitt.  Good lord, he'd be soooooooo perfect...

Tom: Channing Tatum.  And of course, Tom becomes a stripper in this film.

Diary of a Fangirl: The Wolverine

Let me start this by saying that there has thus far absolutely not one solidly good X-Men film (in my opinion) in well...ever.  Each and every single solitary one has disappointed me in some shape or form.  I can't narrow it down to one specific thing, or even one specific character portrayal.  But when I learned that there was going to be "X-Men Origins: Wolverine," I was excited.  Besides Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen, Hugh Jackman was the only actor that I felt portrayed one of my beloved X-Men accurately.  I never read the comics, but I watched the shit out of the Saturday cartoon growing up.  Wolverine and Storm were my favorites.

But then that film as well sucked balls.  I can't even remember fully what happened in it.  I was so excited--just the Wolverine and Liev Schreiber (who I adore) and...just no.  I've blocked it from my mind--that's how traumatizing I found it.  And then "X-Men: First Class" renewed my hope....until I saw it.  I loved Fassbender, McAvoy and Bacon, but the rest of the class stunk to me, as well as the directing, and even the musical score.  It was awful.

And now...I'd been cautiously excited about "The Wolverine"--the trailer looked great, and James Mangold was in the director's chair ("Girl, Interrupted," "Identity," "3:10 to Yuma"), and Scott Frank as one of the writers ("Minority Report")...and then I got even more pumped up about it by seeing an extended trailer at San Diego Comic Con (report on that business soon).

I have to say, it didn't disappoint at all.  It was BRILLIANT.  It totally redeemed the franchise, and made my fangirl heart sing.  The story was intriguing and engaging, the directing was flawless, and the film felt more grounded than any X-Men film ever (i.e. in a Dark Knight sense).  Even Logan's hair seemed realistic/made sense.  And the scene after the credits--part of it made no sense, but I was overwhelmed by such a sense of joy that I didn't even care.

In short, I can't wait for "X-Men: Days of Future Past" in spite of my dislike of some of the casting.

    

Diary of a Fangirl: Much Ado About Nothing

Through a series of serendipitous events, I happened across a couple of tickets to a pre-screening of Joss Whedon's "Much Ado About Nothing."  I've never read the play or seen any adaptation of it, so I went in totally cold.  For those who are just as clueless as I was, it's a modern spin on Shakespeare's play by the same name, where friends conspire to pair up two folks who loathe each other, and a side story of two other folks who are in love, but are broken up by lies and deception by those around them.  Yeah.

Being a Whedonite for some number of years, I've heard the various tales about how Joss would have cast members read Shakespeare at his house, and I'm glad he finally got to bring it to life.  However, I do wish I'd been able to see more Buffy/Angel alum (and reading this just...broke my heart).  Although, I am glad Felicia Day was nowhere in sight.

Everyone was great in this film, but I have to say (and I'm happy to say) that Alexis Denisof.  Stole.  The. Show.  The man was just...brilliant, and good god, have I missed him on screen, and was ridiculously happy to see his gorgeous face on the silver screen.  The man has such a range, people!  And it's about time people beyond fandom got to witness it.  Additionally, what a brilliant stratagem of Joss or the Powers That Be or whoever held onto this film until post "The Avengers" success.  I think this might actually get seen by the masses, and I am happy for it.

The directing was great and the acting was well done.  The film is quite funny, and will leave those familiar with the source material more than happy, and those who aren't well entertained.

It's been awhile since I've read or seen anything Shakespeare, and this film was true to Shakespeare's script (except for one of Benedict's lines which was not PC).  I must admit that my ears had to adjust to the language.  But once you do, it goes on fine.  Also, insults in those days were so much more colorful, inventive, and insulting than they are today.  We should go back to that.

[Literature!! I love you.]

In short, when this film comes to your down, go and take a gander.  You won't be disappointed.




    

Diary of a Fangirl: The Heat

If "Bridesmaids" and "Pineapple Express" had a baby, and that baby had a baby with "21 Jump Street," the end result would be "The Heat."

Don't dig the airbrushing.

I'm sure it's not the first strictly female buddy comedy, but I swear I can't think of another, which means it's either been too long, or hasn't been one that was relevant enough for mention.  But people, this is IT.

I have to be honest and say that I had low expectations going in, but was more than pleasantly surprised.  I laughed out loud; I laughed heartily; I laughed so much that my eyes leaked a little bit.

Bullock's Ashburn and McCarthy's Mullins are superb comedy gold.  Ladies, yes we can make a hilarious and fun buddy/sisterly bromance comedy thing.

Bullock portrays an FBI agent, and McCarthy is an officer--both ostracized in their fields for having boobs, pretty much.  Bullock is the nerd, and McCarthy is the aggressive one.  Stereotypical, sure, but there is nothing stereotypical about this film, I assure you.

This film drops June 28th, and I have to say, it's good for the Rogen/Franco camp that it wasn't released when their film was because man...I have a feeling that this film is funnier.


    

Diary of a Fangirl: This Is The End

I think this summer is going to be where comedy reigns as King.  Also, I'm including the first half hour of "After Earth" on that list (albeit the funny in that film was totally unintentional).

"This Is the End" was hilarious, and went in totally unexpected directions.  There's no way you can guess the last three point five minutes, I guarantee it.

This is another buddy film, which writers Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg seem to be great at.  And while there are several BFFs of Seth's (the character of Seth Rogen, that is) in the film, the two main ones are Jay, who's visiting in town, and James Franco, who clearly favors Seth above all others.  There's more than a gentlemanly bond going on, which makes it funnier.  Jay comes off as a petulant girlfriend, jealous of Seth's other friends, while James reveres Seth above, well, anyone.  Jonah as well is very..well just watch it.  Actually, it reminded me of "SuperBad."  In fact, I've decided to add my semi-analytical take on it at the bottom of this entry.

I will say that I wish we had more of the party scene at Franco's house.  It was...interesting, to say the least.

Things this movie has that makes it awesome:

• Sleepovers
• Possessions
• Video confessionals
• Semi-sequel/film within a film (which was extra awesome)
• The natural chemistry of real life friends

The trailers give this much away, but the film is basically about how five (sometimes six) friends survive during an apocalyptic event as James Franco's house.  Is it zombies?  Is it an apocalypse?  Is it Godzilla?  Is it aliens?  Is it something else entirely??  You'll just have to watch and see.

And now, some spoilers:

• I will never look at Michael Cera the same way again
• What the crap happened to Paul Rudd?
• I was hoping there would be a Marvel type of ending, where the characters who didn't make it ended up eating shawarma in Hell or something.
• Channing Tatum as a sex slave...gosh, he has a great ass.
• A gigantic penis.  Well, I can't say I'm surprised guys.  Wasn't surprised Jonah was the one who got it, though.

"SUPERBAD"

...Was really Super Good. Okay, I can't be the first person that typed that out.

[Warning: A review from an analytical standpoint with a few spoilers.]

Anyway, I saw this movie at least a week ago--maybe two. And, there were some funny laugh out loud moments, and it starts out as the typical teenaged guys trying to get laid before their senior is over, but first let me say that I was totally thrown that these guys were seniors in high school. This is probably due to the fact that they looked like they were actually eighteen or so (and I'm sure the Evan character really is), and I've been so jaded to those in their mid to late twenties playing teens. Those guys, as I watched them, I kept thinking "shouldn't they be playing eighth or ninth graders?"

Anyway, like I said, this film was posed under the guys of being another teen flick, but in reality, ran a lot deeper...The "teen film" genre was just the shallow end of the deep pool that is "Super Bad."
I haven't read or seen any real commentaries on this film, because I didn't want it to taint this review. But I have this to say--

"Super Bad" was not a "bromance," which is what I did see on the cover of the Red Eye. For those of you not in the know, a bromance or bromantic couple is two hetero guys who are BFFs, and the fact that they care for one another is overt. A good example would be Vince Vaughn and Owen Wilson's characters in "Wedding Crashers," or Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker in the "Rush Hour" series (though they clearly didn't start out that way). But in this film, well, it was just a plain romantic comedy.

The two main characters, Seth and Evan, clearly have a love for one another that surpasses the love of two best friends- even if they are male. There are multiple indicators throughout such as the following: The fact that Seth had a penchant for drawing penises- different shapes and sizes, etc., that Seth feels that a vagina by itself is boring- he needs to see one with the insertion of a penis. Methinks he just wants to see the penis, and not feel too gay about it. In fact, this little comment alone makes me think he may be the only heterosexual man to not enjoy lesbian porn... The jealously and resentment that Seth feels when he learns that Evan and Foggel (the third wheel of this relationship/friendship) will be rooming together in college, and the fact that Evan tried to keep it a secret from Seth, knowing that it was in fact some sort of betrayal, and wishing to spare his feelings.

The drunken night they spend at Evan's place after the party. There's a brief fade out, after drunken "I love yous" given by the two, and then it's morning. Seth looks anxious, quickly wanting to leave, which is odd considering the entire film, it is his agenda to stick by Evan, and keep them together. Particularly so since Evan will be going away to a different college. Evan then looks at him like the wounded girl when the guy abandons the bed the next morning, or in "the harsh light of day," and Seth laughs it off. Then he proceeds to tell Evan that his mom has "great tits," as if to stave off the awkwardness. In my opinion, it just made it all the more awkward, and made it seem that in that moment, Seth had to prove his straightness.

Then, in the ending, the sad, lost lovers look they give each other as they separate at the mall with two girls of "interest," and then the film is over, with its montage of drawn penises.

This film was clearly a gay romantic comedy, in which the guy did not get the guy (like "My Best Friend's Wedding," but only gay), but the girl that he only thought he wanted (for both Seth and Evan). I admired the film and its gumption and courage, though I almost felt a bit disappointment...but then I realized, that the writers and the director supplied for us all that we needed to see the film for what it really is, and that it's not their fault that most people are not too quick on the uptake, and the films meaning went over most peoples heads. This movie had foreshadowing, metaphor, and a ton of unspoken language that would surpass the casual observer's eyes.

For these reasons, I give this film three stars and two thumbs up.

Seth and Evan join Dr. Christian Troy and Dr. Sean McNamara as well as Spike and Angel in the unofficial gay couples in TV and cinema. There are many others...But one must really look in order to see it.

              
              

Diary of a Fangirl: Joan Rivers/Sarah Palin Wife Swap

I keep seeing the commercials for the new Wife Swap with Joan Rivers and Sarah Palin, and I have to say I'm intrigued.  Mostly because it involves Joan Rivers, but intrigued all the same.

But after giving it some thought...I realized that they went about this all wrong.  They swapped the wrong ones.

It would have made more sense not only age wise, but comedy wise had they switched Sarah with Melissa, and had Sarah Palin under the same roof as Joan Rivers.  I mean, can you imagine?  I can, and hot damn, I wish I didn't have to guess--that shit should be taped and ready to run.

ETA:  They're switching Joan and Bristol which makes even less sense, but hey!  It puts Sarah and Joan under the same roof, which is what I wanted anyway.  But seriously, who wants to see the Bristol/Melissa parts of the ep?  Who really cares?  I'm just saying.

So yeah, they mis-cast the switch tremendously, but I'm still curious to see how the show will turn out, as well as the families.  I think Joan can bring some value to the Palin household, just saying.

Heh, or Whoopi Goldberg. Wow, I'd pay to see that...

Who else should they cast for Celebrity Wife Swap you say?  Kris Jenner and Mama June.  Yes, that must happen.



    

Diary of a Fangirl: World War Z

This evening I went to a screening of "World War Z," sponsored by B96 and Paramount pictures.

My expectations for the event itself were not high, but I was definitely intrigued with the film from what I'd seen in the trailers.  Well, I dare say my expectations were exceeded thrice fold on both accounts.

The premier started with an assembly line--first you check in with your ticket, then you get a color coded wristband, then a t-shirt, a card giving Twitter instructions, and a voucher for free popcorn and drink.  There were all of these "fancy" security guards--all in suits, and some with bow ties (a guy with a pink one stood out to me).  The B96 people were set up on the main floor, passing out cups and more shirts, playing trivia games.

They had a green screen set up by the theatre doors.  I got this nifty pic to add to my selection of souvenirs (well, the picture made it plural).

And then there was a lot of waiting.  As I looked around, I took in the suits and the lights set up and the camera man that was next to me initially.  I thought, "Someone is coming."  And then I thought, "Nah, they wouldn't bring Brad for this...must be some studio head or some B96 personality I don't care about."  But then--it happened.

I SAW BRAD PITT.  IN HIS FLESH.  I BREATHED HIS AIR.  JEEBUS HE WAS BEAUTIFUL.

He came running into the room, slightly out of breath, and GORGEOUS.

Crappy cell phone pics are crappy.

Brad Pitt: The Holy Grail of Celeb Sightings

Hetero-guy shaped person next to me: "Huh. I guess he is kind of beautiful."

I still get chills just thinking about it.

Okay, so the film itself:

It was as Brad promised--damn near non-stop action.  Well done action at that.  The film is PG-13, but I think they could have gone for R.  That being said, I think it was still very well done.

I didn't read the books, and I know how people can be so sensitive about adaptations (although, they fail to realize it is in fact an adaptation), but coming in cold, I have to say that I loved this film.  I'd watch it again.  Zombies are "in," and this film is right up there.  And with Brad Pitt's star power behind it...I'm sure it's going to be a summer slam dunk.

That being said, I've heard that the reason why he was there (and a few other premiers) is that the studio heads think the film will be a flop, and want to push it as hard as they can.  It's a shame they don't believe in their product, because it's fabulous.  It has action, pulls at the heart strings, looks realistic, and adds to the zombie genre.

To top off the night, I got interviewed by Channel 7 News.  My heart was still pounding--it was an exhilarating evening.  Unfortunately, I don't have video, but here are a couple of pics:

Next Up: A review of "The Heat."


    
    

Diary of a Fangirl: The Original Character Meme

Hey gang,

Sorry it's been awhile.  It was a hiatus that snuck up on me.  But I'm back now.  Should have some good movie reviews coming up--I'll be attending a couple of pre-screenings.  Additionally, I had this interview while I was away, so at least I've been semi-productive.

I'm working on my next book, and a buddy of mine gave me this great meme to explore characters.  Now, let me introduce you....

The Original Character Interview Meme

 Pick an original character from any work you choose, then answer the following questions in character...


 1. Care to introduce yourself? The name's Nic. I'm a near billionaire megalomaniac, apparently. The "apparently" is for the megalomaniac bit. Personally, I would just call it superiority.

2. Job or Occupation? Let's just say I'm a very successful entrepreneur in the pharmaceutical industry.

3. If you had a vacation, what it'll be? Not much time for those as of late. There's always work to be done.

4. If you traveled in time, what history would you change? That's tough. My past has made me who I am, but some of it's pretty...I think I'd want my childhood back.

5. Look! A mecha that looks kinda like you! *points to the mecha* Huh. Now there's a handsome son of a bitch.

6. What are you going to do with it? Reprogram it to to adhere to my will if it isn't already.

7. Fwoosh! *throws the character's favorite food on their face* *Takes a napkin and wipes face calmly* The citrus port cherry sauce on these roasted duck breasts are bound to stain my custom button down. But mostly that China plate it was served on hurt my face. But don't worry your pretty little head over it--you'll be paying for that when this is done.

8. What's your favorite music genre? Scattered across the board, but I do have a fondness for grunge and Cobain.

9. What is your favorite mythical creature? Given the world that I live in, it's hard to think about myths. And for the record, all of our creatures are created by good ol' fashioned science. No myths required.

10. What's your favorite musical instrument? Let's just go with a certain type--strings. There's something deep, and intense and sometimes sexual with string instruments. Especially a viola.

11. What's your favorite weather? When it's storming outside. Easier to think around then. The rest of the city grows quiet because no one likes to be out in the rain, especially when there's thunder and lightning. But it doesn't bother me.

12. Do you believe in... Santa Claus? *stares coldly* You're really testing my patience here.

13. Look at the person on this mirror! *pulls in a mirror, which shows the Opposite Version of the character* This, is the anti version of yourself, from another universe! So the Bizarro World does exist. Congrats, Larry David. And Jesus, what a disgusting, little troll of a man you have there.

14. Have a cake! *cakes the character with a big cake that contains the character's favorite flavor* *grabs cake before it can be thrown at him* Homemade cream cheese icing. Haven't had that in ages...Yellow cake with cream cheese icing. That's... *grows deathly quiet and looks away*

15. What's the worst and humiliating thing that happened to you? *sighs* You know, I spent a lot of money forgetting those things. But...I'd have to say it was when I was in that juvenile detention center, which is just a nice way of saying kiddie prison.

16. If you had a pet, what it's gonna be? A dog, probably, but I'd prefer to not have any kind of emotional attachments, thanks.

17. What's your favorite song? "Heart Shaped Box."

18. Who's your favorite artist? Depends on what type you're talking about. Cobain was an artist. But, for a bit of variation, let's go with Escher.

19. What will you do if you found a treasure chest containing treasure? Depends on what type of treasure it was, I guess. But it's not as if I need the money. So it'd have to be something unique and rare in order to capture my interest. I apply this same rule to women.

20. What creature have you always wanted to be? I'm fine with being an extraordinary man, thanks.

21. Here's another mirror! *pulls in another mirror, which shows the Steampunk Version of the character* This is the steampunk version of yourself, from a universe of the age of steam! Are you high?

22. Do you believe in someone or something? No. I'll leave all that altruistic crap to the "heroes" of the world, thanks.

23. Want me to end this meme now? I was actually about to cut it short myself.

24. Ya sure? Positive.

25. Then tag someone before you leave... via cannon!!! *shows a fancy cannon aiming to an open window, which leads to a large, comfy mattress* I would, but work--it calls me.

    

Diary of a Fangirl: 50 Shades More

Apparently, director Gus Van Sant filmed a scene of Ana losing her virginity to Christian Grey (utilizing Alex Pettyfer as Christian) in his attempt to bid for the director of the film.

I don't know who the hell is in the running, but I think Sant would be a good choice, and would handle the film with both care and respect, and make it into something awesome.

Other directors I wouldn't mind seeing at the helm of this film in the hopes of vastly improving the story (or rather, the way it's told):

Ang Lee
Sam Mendes
Steve McQueen

Speaking of McQueen...please let this film star Michael Fassbender.  Omg...

I've thought about this, and it would be a horrible misstep if they don't cast this brilliant actor and beautiful and sexy man.

As for the leading lady...I'm hearing a lot of names being thrown around, but it's making me yawn.  Here's my pic:

Yep--Vanessa Lee Chester.  Blame it on Deception or Scandal if you want, or say it's cause I'm black, but hey, that's what I want to see.  Let's face it folks--interracial on TV (and soon film, hopefully) is what's up.

    

Diary of a Fangirl: New Season of X Factor

So, for the upcoming season of X Factor, they axed Khloe Kardashian (who I enjoy...just not live on that show, I guess), kept Mario Lopez, got rid of Britney Spears, and L.A. Reid left to pursue other...stuff.

Let me say this: If they have a kick ass third judge, they really don't need a fourth.  And who did I have in mind for the fourth judge?  And I've been thinking about this for over a year, let me tell you...

Diddy.

P. Diddy.

Puff Daddy.

Diddy Dirty Money.

Whatever the hell he's calling himself these days.

Combs would not only be brilliant and entertaining, and not only does he know the talent and the business, but it would be an ultimate throwback to the days of Making the Band, and back when I gave a crap about MTV (not much, but a little).  With Diddy...yeah, who cares about a fourth judge?  A fourth just wouldn't be necessary.

Well wait--there are four different groups, so a fourth judge is needed...hmm...

Why not Toni Braxton?

    

Diary of a Fangirl: Jurassic Park 3D

I'm not a big 3D film person.  In fact, I utterly detest it.

Including "Jurassic Park" (and excluding virtual theme rides), I've only seen "Hugo" and "Avatar" in 3D.  I didn't feel it was necessary for "Hugo," and felt like I was in one of those video games at the arcade where you wear one of those helmets in "Avatar," but with "Jurassic Park..."

OMG, you guys, I LOVED EET!

I thought about as to why this might be, and the reason was in Spielberg's genius technology.  It's not the CGI of today folks, and making that film into 3D just enhanced the wonderful, beautiful and magnificently perfect film that it is (forget the sequels--they're...okay, but nothing to really write home about).  I got to see the cracks and crevices and ridges of those magnificent dinosaurs.  It made the film even more alive to me.  And I cannot tell you how happy I am that it was made in 1993 as opposed to today.  Spielberg, you mad genius...

I hope like hell he's at the helm for "Jurassic Park 4."


    

Diary of a Fangirl: Meeting Shark Tank's Daymond John

Today's guest post is from Lauren:

I met him at the Austin Convention Center at a Real Estate Convention.... I am a new home sales associate for Meritage Homes (Green Builder) AND I have an app Start-up, CatFoster Media... Coincidentally the game developers conference was right next door.... My App company was at the forefront of my mind when I was feeling down because I can't afford to do it full time yet. I really love selling homes, but I really love apps, I just want more time to do both.

Today I was feeling down and I was cursing the heavens. Being an entrepreneur is hard and some days I truly want to run off to India. Then, by chance, I ran into one of my favorite Sharks from by favorite show, Shark Tank and it lifted my spirits and made me realize that it's not always a high, you hit the lows and you have to ride them out with optimism!

Want to share your best fangirl/fanboy moment?  Submit to Jillian.Robi@gmail.com today!  
Want to read a great fangirl story?  Check out Fangirl--available on paperback and Kindle!

    

Diary of a Fangirl: Justin Timberlake's "The 20/20 Experience"

I've been a fan of Justin Timberlake since his N*Sync days, and as he has grown and matured both literally and in the music industry, I've appreciated his style of music.

"
I haven't bought The 20/20 Experience, but I am seriously contemplating doing so (I don't take buying an entire album lightly.  Maybe I'm one of those music snobs).  There are only ten tracks on the album (and the songs averaging 6.9 minutes) for eleven bucks.  His first single, "Suit & Tie"--I have to be honest, I wasn't crazy about it upon first hearing it.  But I will say that it represents a true testament to successful marketing.  After hearing it over and over again in commercials and on the radio, I've come around to liking it very much.

This latest album only has ten singles, and after listening to the samples given, I realized that my earlier thought that "Pusher Love Girl" was the best song on the album is more than likely correct.  I loved that song upon first hearing it at Justin's Grammy performance earlier this year.  "Blue Ocean Floor" seems to have potential...but I am not sure.  It's a bit reminiscent of Radiohead, actually.

I'll probably end up buying just those two singles.


    

Diary of a Fangirl: "The Power Trip" Review

So, I've been a fan of Jackie Collins since I was thirteen years old.  I started with Hollywood Wive: The New Generation, and read all of her books (except for maybe one or two) between then and now.  The bulk of those books were read while I was in high school.  It's interesting reading an author's work from start to present--you get to see their growth and strengths.  I definitely think that Ms. Collins' work midway through was her best--particularly the Santangelo series.

Which brings me to "The Power Trip..."

The book was definitely a page turner--a super model and her billionaire Russian boyfriend celebrate her thirtieth birthday on a custom yacht with a special guest list of a movie star and his girlfriend, a soccer player footballer and his wife, a gay Latin sensation and his boyfriend, a senator and his wife, and a journalist and his journalist friend.  Right before the last day of the trip, the yacht is held for ransom by Somalian pirates...

However, I had some issues with this particular book:

The ending was definitely open ended, setting this up as a part one (just un-officially), which is fine, but I felt unsatisfied.

The main heroine--Bianca the super model--I had a ton of issues with her.

1. Like most of the black people in a Jackie Collins novel, she was biracial--black and Cuban.  I would like for there to be one regular black heroine with brown eyes as opposed to green.  This is a common Collins trope (mixed race black woman with green eyes).

2. She makes racist comments, but says she can't be racist because she's black and has been called names herself.  This, however, does not negate her racist comments, and I can't imagine someone actually believing that bullshit (i.e. I can't be racist cause I'm black).

3.  She's a bitch, and not in a good way.  This wouldn't normally bother me, but she doesn't get to redeem herself by the end of the book.  Disappointing because I wanted to like her.

4. She is the lead female of the book, and yet on the cover, there is some white woman on the yacht who doesn't fit the description of any of the other characters in the book.  It's a Jackie Collins novel, after all, so I think if there was a hot black woman on the cover of just one book, it still would have sold...

Other than that business, I did like the Flynn character--the journalist.  If I had to guess, I'd say that the next book will be mostly focused on him, and I do look forward to that.  Additionally, I do think it's a great read, in spite of my issues with it.