Rob Ranting

The Political Process In The United States

2011-05-06T08:40:00.000-07:00

There I was, casting my ballot for democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama November 4th, 2008. The air was filled with something that night, an optimism that isn't truly found in every election or even every decade. And I felt something that compelled me to get involved and after all it was my first election. I was so proud of this country, truly proud to be able to listen to a candidate and understand his ideas and elect him on the notion that we can all come to a better understanding under a leader who has the communication skills to unite a country. But I was pretty naive to believe that one man could complete the inane headache that comes with trying to bring us together. We're too socially different for that to ever happen, it'll take a couple hundred more years for people to treat each other properly, but that's probably a wash because we've been around for thousands of years and look at the progress...not too much in the arena of human compassion and understanding. This President has been steadfast in standing up for what is right and protecting the human and civil rights of the very Americans that demonize and slander the President.

Barack Obama effectively passed sweeping health care reform last summer despite constantly being under attack by the right wing. Republicans spread fears about health care reform being the first step towards communism and calling the President a socialist. Conservatives tried harping about the cost of the bill, death panels, and socialized communist medicine...all lies of course to the American people. And the Bill was passed by President Barack Obama, a historic moment for our country doing what is right to help people who cannot help themselves. When the public is misinformed like this it creates chaos it doesn't bring us together, it seperates us. Though what is really sad is that because we are so ready to believe anything said on T.V. the misinformation shows how bad our education system is. So while we're talking about health care which is a vital need in this country for those who cannot get insurance, it shows that in reality what should be discussed is how we just take something that is said and believe it as fact. I can't believe this is how our leaders behave, lying to us about how the country would run smoother if we gave more money to the people who already have the majority of the wealth. So just so I'm understanding this properly: our country which at the time was in a recession in part to the banking institutions and wall street, should give more money to the very people that put our country in the condition it's in. Very simply it doesn't take a genius to see the failed logic of the republican party.

For a party that speaks so condescendingly and arrogantly about the constitution they really have no idea of what the document clearly says. So the right to bear arms translates into every citizen having the right to own an assault rifle without training or safety classes, because that makes sense right? How about the freedom to practice your own religion? Freedom of religion, only if your religion is Christianity. How many people are still judged, looked down on, and ostracized for believing things that make the bible either irrelevant or a joke. Things that are not the business of the federal government, like the person that you sleep with suddenly is the concern of the party who doesn't want government to be involved? Shouldn't republicans be for marriage equality by saying government has no place to tell people what to do with their personal lives?

I said it in my facebook post last week, "This country is a fucking joke." and I meant what i said. This country was founded on the notion that if you put in a days work, you come home relax spend time with your loved ones and enjoy your hard work, build a little something for yourself. Building yourself up, becoming successful through hard work, these are things that most Americans believe in. Why can't we come together to appreciate each other for that, that we all pay into the system and because of that people get to work every day and people don't go hungry and that kid with kidney disease doesn't have to die on the street because the liberals in congress passed state insurance reform to assist families with no money or very little money. As a society, as a people we should be one, we need to be. As pessimistic and jaded as I am, I still have hope that we can one day come together and have a little compassion and understanding for one another. Throw the bible out, it says separation of church and state, does that not mean anything. Freedom of religion also means no governmental sponsoring of an organized religion, what the hell do you think abortion is? Its a fucking moral issue, it doesn't belong in government..so in essence for all you morally superior jackasses its none of your fucking business, my body is my body and you can't tell me what I can and cannot do with it.

In essence morality issues need to stay out of the federal government and surprisingly its the republicans that seem to have the issue with it. Gay and Lesbian couples should be able to marry legally and have all the rights that we do, if you have a moral or religious issue with it that's fine but we are trying to responsibly govern here and those issues have no place in the federal government, same as abortion. Everyone has a right to do with their body as they please, you don't have to agree you just have to respect their decision as a fellow American citizen. The notion that we need to demonize someone because they're different is truly an American tradition but not singularly unique at all. Open up your history books and read people, educate yourselves and all it takes is some common sense logic. I'm not that smart ok,..but I could easily point to these things and let the American people pull their heads out of their asses. This country was founded on the "American Dream" the idea that we can all succeed and create a little place called home. It doesn't exist because for it to actually happen someone has to fail, its what the republicans don't tell you about our capitalist economy. So giving more money to the rich nah, how about we tax them more to give back to the people who need it more, who are starving and fighting tooth and nail just to get by. This is such a fucked up place where we have excessively rich people and poverty that reaches into the tens of thousands. I certainly hope we wake the fuck up, this is the end of days.

Review: Get Him To The Greek

2010-06-13T16:52:00.000-07:00

Russel Brand is a funny man. But it's something else entirely when he puts his life on display in a nationally released motion picture. If you know anything about Brand you know he's no stranger to drugs and alcohol, which makes him a perfect fit to play Aldous Snow the notorious drug abusing rock star from "Forgetting Sarah Marshall". After the release of the deeply offensive "African Child" album he puts out, Snow falls off the wagon and off the charts. Jonah Hill plays the record executive that comes up with the idea to get Snow to play an anniversary show at the Greek theatre. Hilarity of course ensues with Hill being sucked into the partying and drug lifestyle that comes with being a well known rock star. Nicholas Stoller comes back to direct Brand and Hill again as they work well together, it's not too hard to see why this would be an appealing project to work on. We even get to see a cameo by Sarah Marshall(Kristen Bell) in a fake promo on NBC for her new show. It seems to be the theme in Judd Apatow produced or directed films where it's nearly all comedy and then sneaking in some genuine, honest sentiment and feeling emotion. And surprisingly every time, It takes me by surprise.

When you have a film like this a comedy you're just expecting one thing, for it to make you laugh. But it seems that Judd Apatow has really revolutionized the comedy genre, by being able to feel something for these people you're laughing at, feeling that you know them and they're your friends. As I've said in the previous paragraph Brand and Hill work well together and it's fun to watch. There's not too much detail to go into because of it being a comedy but I believe Jonah Hill has the potential to be a serious actor, even if his strong suit is his comedic abilities. A lot of the film's storyline is over the top but isn't the life of a rock star also over the top? So I can't blame it for being a little crazy, because it's just working with what real life gives it. I won't lie, I laughed my ass off and I actually thought it was as funny as Forgetting Sarah Marshall, which is pretty impressive.

Time To Take Some Time

2010-05-17T01:38:00.000-07:00

So it's been over a week here in Olympia, it's been really wonderful. The time I've spent here has been filled with lots of joy, good times with good people and surprising insights. But there has been a nagging issue, why is it so hard to believe I have people who care for/about me? I've tried to accept it at face value and It's still hard for me to grasp. That I could have this happiness that seemingly everyone else gets to enjoy and I'm left out in the cold. I think that it comes back to self consciousness, or really lack thereof. It's having been in a situation or situations where you feel complete by your surroundings only to have them disappoint you in the end. But I really feel like this is my time, my time to live my life with my friends, my roomates, to feel complete. Everything feels so right and even if things aren't perfect it's alright, because I am cared for and having that makes me feel like I can take on anything, funny how a little happiness makes life worth living. I'll make this short because really, I'm too busy having a great time right now. I'll have my insecurities for awhile, but I am so ready to start living my life no matter where it takes me.

I'm leaving and I'm never coming back

2010-05-03T06:33:00.000-07:00

Ok that's a bit of an exageration but I am moving, a change of lifestyle, an event that will help me grow and progress forward. I'm leaving tomorrow morning, very early and I suspect it'll take me around 2 days to get to my destination. But that's just how I drive, anyway I thought I would take the time to show those of you I call my friends that I do indeed give a damn. I'm sorry that I could not spend as much time with you as I would have liked, but that's life and shit happens. I suppose I could have done a better job with planning but I just felt so stuck with where I was at, all I could look forward to was leaving. I cherish all of you that have contributed to me having a pleasant life for the past year, and I thank you for your time and energy spent around and with me. This is goodbye, I am coming back eventually to visit, and I hope that it's soon so that I may here of your triumphs as well as your shortcomings. I'm leaving to greener pastures it's true, I'm merely speaking of Olympia's rainforest so that it's an actual fact that it's greener. Ha. But it's exciting and scary at the same time, not knowing what to expect really. But I'll do my best to be at my best always. That's the most I suppose I can promise myself. I so am looking forward to the promise of meeting new people and growing with the ones I already know...It's so enticing.

Life's Little Update

2010-04-20T09:12:00.000-07:00

It's late April, and I'm planning a western venture, well more than a venture per say a move to the capital of Washington State. It first started as a help to a dear friend of mine, and then I sort of fell in love with the town itself and the entire situation. So now, I'm heading to Olympia, Washington to start over once again, hopefully for the last time. I'm taking my old car just because it continues to run and is inexpensive to keep on the road, it's one of the few things that has been constant the past few years. I've met a young lady that is quite wonderful and who I won't yet talk to much of, just because it's something new and undecided on a few levels, but that she is quite mesmerizing. That I will say, I'll also say that she makes me feel ok with who I am, and I haven't ever felt that with anyone. I'm leaving two weeks from today and I am so eager and excited to start on this journey, road trips have always been a favorite of mine especially when on my own. Just myself, my car, my music, and the open road, 3,000 miles of it and I'm hopeful for clear, sunny days to accompany me. There's risk with any decision making and I suppose someone, somewhere is shaking their head at the fact that I'm moving again, but I must do what I feel is the very best thing for me. Pennsylvania holds nothing for me anymore, there isn't a thing for me here...so I must pick up my bags and carry on. I'm excited, and for my friends that I'm leaving behind all I can say is I wish you well, and I hope to see you down the road.

so what is exactly going on in our country?

2010-04-06T12:59:00.000-07:00

We've got political commentators screaming for their ideology, though in my opinion more people side or listen to the conservative ones, probably because that's what most people are. We so love to scream at the top of our lungs what our beliefs are, so much so that it's nearly become an American pastime. While I bear no ill will to voicing an opinion, we need to keep our rhetoric in check, because no matter how heated it is it doesn't beat actual substance. These commentators aren't elected officials, we don't vote them on the tube or on the radio but we instill with them our trust. Why? Should the question even be asked? But it has to because when said commentators instill their own beliefs as "American" and "Righteous" and they force the viewer to gravitate towards their views fearing they might not be "American" to disagree. But I believe it's quite American to dissent and no matter how high and loud Glenn Beck and Sean Hannity yell at the camera they can't convince me and shouldn't be able to convince any of us that we're unamerican because we disagree with them.

It's quite insidious and odious to just make outlandish statements and paint them as facts. It's something the conservative movement has done for years. Slavery, the New Deal, the civil rights movement of the 1960's, and most recently the health care reform package. Sorry to sound like a bleeding heart cookie cutter liberal but history is on my side here. Every progressive step forward, conservatives have been there to try and block it. I'm not saying I'm a fan of any party because I don't believe in being partisan, but the republican party has become so absolutely ridiculous and are just stalling until the mid term elections so they can point the finger at the democrats and say "hey look at them, they spent your money and you still don't have a job!" It's beyond a joke.

Looking back to January of 2009, when Barack Obama was sworn into office, a look into the future saw optimism and tolerance between Americans, universal tolerance and acceptance between all Americans. Now fast forward 15 months and many people are still questioning the Presidents nationality and birth place. Though it's widely known throughout the President's state that he was born and grew up there. But people don't want to accept that, like they can't believe this man is the President. When people questioned George W. Bush's possibly illegitimate election, it was based on actual facts and certainly questionable material. But people yell things about Mr.Obama about being a socialist and that he has family in Kenya and that his father and grandfather were Muslims so that must mean Mr.Obama too is a Muslim. What a joke, and it's quite embarrassing to be associated with these people knowing they're Americans.

What is going on in this country? Tea Party protesters, protesting against what? Big government, too much spending? The United States citizens enjoy some of the lowest taxes among all of the 1st world countries. If you want to lower the deficit we can't just keep giving the richest 1 percent tax cuts all the time. But that's all conservatives care about, keeping all of their money so the "wrong" people don't get it. The wrong people I guess are non christian minorities with "alternative" values. You can put together that puzzle, but I'm left to wonder at the end of the day about the rest of America. Doesn't our country stand up for diversity and all of the things that make all us so different? Shouldn't that be celebrated? Because all of this paranoia directed toward our very own President has so very much to do with his own diversity, and it's not all about race. It's that his family history isn't all white, christian, and American. But, so what? It's something that should be looked upon with pride and favorability. Yet the conservative movement has been able to scare the American people into believing that he wants to take away all of our rights and rape us of our freedom.

He isn't, and it seems that more and more we as Americans are unable to see through all of the bull crap and use some logic. We as a country are so obsessed with freedom that we're scared if anything, it could be the most minimalist thing, changes at all. We are always just so paranoid of anything that is different, I of course am talking about white, conservative, America and that does make up the majority, but how can we not open our minds and see what is really there? That's what I've never been able to understand about conservatism, organized religion, and bigotry. I'd like to think that if we came together, fused our communities, that we would be better off, much better off. What is so scary about all of that? No one can convince me that community isn't the answer. We are better when we're around one another, interacting, bouncing ideas off one another, coming together and trying to understand our common man. It's a very simple but profound notion, and once again I can't fathom why conservative America can't grasp that. As far as we've come in this country I feel it's not far enough and as my favorite poet Robert Frost put it "But I have promises to keep, and miles to go before I sleep". Yes we do.

"It's a sliding progressive scale"

2010-03-26T19:34:00.000-07:00

That's the line I used when trying to explain to my mother why children should be "better" than their parents. Maybe I didn't explain it so well, using the word better like that, but all I meant is that children should anyway, learn from their parents mistakes, triumphs, failures, and successes. To be able to see another life already grown and to try and learn what the right ways are to live a life. Sometimes it doesn't happen, some people have awful parents who beat them and tear them down with insults. I don't have that my mother has been nothing short of amazingly supportive of whatever I've ever wanted to do. But I'm a provocateur and the only way to satisfy that urge is to bring up potentially explosive topics. Knowing that it could have been a hot button issue, calling her into question and myself wanting to be a better person. It wasn't a smart way to word the argument and I could have done a better job with it, but it was still a fair statement in my mind. Aren't children supposed to be better than their parents? Not financially, I mean better off and that's what most of us associate having a better life as. But I'm more referring to the ideas and ideals we covet and hold onto.

It's not so much about morals I guess, but people change over time and there isn't any debating that, it's a sliding progressive scale, we learn to accept more as time moves along and that's really all I meant. That liberalism in the most basest sense is the right thought process and that many children have grown out of conservative households to be liberal minded individuals. Because the conservative mindset is so restrictive and limited in it's scope of human thought, emotion, and understanding it can only stay in the present or worse go backwards. While liberal thought is just the opposite, because it is only looking forward, constantly wanting to be better, to progress into a better future. Helping those in need, searching for better ways to live in our society, and an open mind to help us grow as individuals, these are all liberal minded principals and no one can deny they are all inherently good things.

I wasn't trying to start a political debate because after all my mother is a moderate liberal, even if she's a registered Republican, she's really not one. It was about always trying to grow, always progressing toward a better future, something to smile upon as you come to the end of a long day, knowing you're doing your best to ensure a better day ahead. I know why it could look offensive to any parent, I wasn't questioning her parenting, it more came down to my personal beliefs of how life should be. I hope that if I ever had kids they'll be even more understanding and open than I am, and that's saying something. Yeah I shouldn't have used the word better, it's such a general word. Progress, to move forward and grow, to learn from mistakes and make the world a better place. Maybe not the actual definition, but it's something we should all want, isn't it?

Health Care Reform Finally Passes

2010-03-21T17:29:00.000-07:00

Ok, so it's been an entire year since President Obama came to congress with a plan to overhaul the health care industry. Anyone that paid attention during the past year would be surprised to hear that today the bill finally passed in the House. The conservatives rallied for an entire year against a bill that would cover 30 million uninsured people, and anyone who loses their benefits from work or those who can't afford health insurance. A small, but sizable group of conservative minded supporters naming themselves The Tea Party, rallied against the health care reform bill, calling it communism, socialism, and fascist. Though one could argue that medicare is a social program that we've had for nearly 50 years. Certainly it's done well for our elderly citizens even if there's quite a bit of fraud in medicare. That needs to be looked because it would save a whole lot of money and extend even more care.

But, my main concern and others concern I'm sure, is that over the past year the republican party has been the party of no, playing partisan politics and straight out lying to the American people. Despite all of this in the way of the President, the slanting of the truth by a certain cable news show that has a penchant to give "fair and balanced" news, the party of no, and a crazy made up party of insane, racist, close minded, ignorant, uneducated, and frankly moronic people. The idea that "the American People know better" is a joke, because in general you're talking about a vast group of uneducated, angry people who don't really understand what they are rallying against, they just like Glenn Beck because they think he's "one of them" and he has these vast conspiracies that connect Obama and socialism, right Glenn.

But there is a larger issue at hand and it's that we as American people are being lied to and swallowing it whole. Are we really that dumbed down of a society? I suppose most of us are, I'm glad to be in the minority. But among all of these obstacles, all of the lies and deceit it looks like there is some light at the end of the long and winding tunnel. It now comes down to matching the two bills into one bill, and then sending it to the President for his signature. All the promises of delaying the bill, of starting over, of stopping the democrats from ramming it through, all of the republicans rhetoric and endless banter has just delayed important, poignant, crucial legislation. Voters need to see the clear correlation between the year long debate on health care and the Republicans just saying no, saying to start over. The President recently gave a speech in Ohio asking a few simple questions to the audience, "If not now, when?" "If not us, who?" Really that's it, the skyrocketing costs of health care points towards a broken system and this is the biggest step towards actually changing that dynamic in this country. I welcome this big step, as it is a historic landmark towards giving our citizens the care they deserve and shall soon receive.

"Race" leaves a deafening impact on us all

2010-03-13T19:01:00.000-08:00

As the 2nd curtain call came at the end of David Mamet's "Race" and the entire audience rose to give a standing ovation, I couldn't help but feel I had just witnessed something really magical. I came to New York to see James Spader give an enthralling, live performance and he exceeded my already bloated expectations. What a treat to see a great actor give such a genuinely raw, emotionally honest performance, in a live venue nonetheless. Incredible. I was surprised to find that David Allen Grier, Richard Thomas, and Kerry Washington were also all very good. The story of "Race" takes place in the law office of Lawson(Spader) and Brown(Grier) as they question whether they should take on a perspective new client(Thomas) and his mess that he's gotten himself into. Charles Strickland is a rich white man accused of raping a black girl, and as much as we'd like to believe in progression, even among us liberals, we all have our own judgements even if we never share them. Broader questions are raised as we progress throughout the story and stop questioning whether the man is innocent because really do we even really care?

James Spader has played this type of role before in Boston Legal and The Practice and could have easily gone through the motions, yet he dedicates himself with every nuance of the character, boldly striking with wit and charm. Mamet is known for his provoking story telling and there is none lacking, as much of the dialogue is a bit shocking but certainly full of honesty. I'd recommend anyone to go see this play, but i know that won't happen as we don't all live in New York or have the time or money to go see it. I will say that it was a really wonderful experience for me and certainly something I'd enjoy doing again.

2010 Academy Awards

2010-03-07T05:21:00.000-08:00

So after talking the best picture nominations a few weeks ago i chose The Hurt Locker to win the coveted award, and i think it will, but just the chance that Avatar has a chance to win is pretty annoying. I think that if there is an upset it'll be Inglourious Basterds, it's just a feeling i have. I feel like the Best Actress category is a little weak this year, only Carey Mulligan for An Education is a stand out performance. I think that the category is filled with "nice" and ably acted performances, but it's not filled with stand out, great performances like the Best Actor category is. I could have picked another 5 performances that were better and argued why they were better. Bullock will win by playing the feel good character of the year, the strong family values, christian, up standing, taking in poor mother in the Blind Side. It makes me want to puke honestly, yes it's a nice job playing a woman who had these strong convictions to let a stranger live with her family and give him a good life. Fine, but it's done in such a way that almost makes her character schmaltzy and cliche' to be honest. Best Supporting Actress is overfilling with outstanding performances from the past year. Maggie Gyllenhall is amazing as i stated earlier in my Crazy Heart review, both women from Up In The Air, Anna Kendrick and Vera Farmiga gave strong performances and deserve to win. Penelope Cruz was alright in Nine but certainly not a performance worth noting. Lastly, we have Monique who will win the award tonight, and for the most part i have no issues with that. It's a great performance in a category of great performances and it's just such a destructive role, voters usually respond to strong, negative roles especially in the supporting actor categories. Monique will win and hey she deserves it, even if personally i want Gyllenhall to win.

Best Actor is an easy pick even if I think George Clooney's performance is good enough to win, Jeff Bridges will win his first Academy Award in a long line of great performances and deserving roles. Supporting Actor will go to Christoph Waltz and there's no debating how deserving he is. I also feel Kathryn Bigelow will win Best Director, Cameron could win but it's a little undeserving, considering the lack of storyline of Avatar.

Beautiful, Wondrous, Longing, Crazy Heart

2010-02-21T15:02:00.000-08:00

Bad Blake is a country music legend in his down and out days, performing for what money he can get in the Southwestern part of the United States. To look at the man he looks like the next guy in any small time town. Certainly I'm sure that's part of his appeal, he sings with genuine soul, his charisma is quite undeniable, and here he is playing for peanuts in a crappy bar in Santa Fe. Bad meets Jean Craddock(Maggie Gyllenhall) while in Santa Fe and agrees to an interview with her, they hit it off right away. While the relationship might be called unbelievable by some critics and some viewers, but because of how fantastic the two actors are it doesn't matter, and that disbelief melts away and they let us see in to see something real. Bad has his troubles though, a pretty bad smoking and drinking habit. After a scary car accident Blake is told by a doctor that he has emphysema, is an alcoholic, and is "pretty close" to a stroke. Bad's alcoholism becomes a real problem in a scene where he's looking after Jean's son, it's a wake up call for a man who's been drunk for almost all of his life. He hasn't written new music in years, but for a man who is slowly dying, Bad finds the best reason to turn it all around, love of course.

Maggie Gyllenhall was quite the surprise nearly all the way throughout, she steals many scenes with the inevitable Best Actor Oscar winner Bridges and though she won't win her nomination fight, she certainly deserves to. When watching her move across the screen, her performance reminded me that there is something truly, incredibly moving about a beautiful woman smiling and being completely happy in a moment. A beautiful woman smiling can solve every problem that you could have, because it takes away whatever might ail you, because nothing else matters. But she's not all smiles, she knows Bad isn't in good health and she's in love with him, and when you love someone you know doesn't have a whole lot of time it just makes things harder. She sees him playing his guitar on her bed, writing another great song, as she realizes that he won't be around forever she fights hard to hide her tears. Gyllenhall plays a strong everywoman who is beautiful, but not in a glamorous/Hollywood way, who is strong and independent and knows she's better off without Bad and his substance issues, but love has a funny way of making us stick around. She deserves an Oscar for a subtle, emotional, powerful, touching, genuine performance, even if she won't get it.

As big as I am on Maggie Gyllenhall, Jeff Bridges was incredible and he'll win the Best Actor Oscar. It's easy to see why, he plays Bad with humor and humility with a very human connection to his audience in the film and the audience watching on screen. Bridges sang all of the songs in the film and really mastered a broken down man who tries turning all of his problems around, and let's us know that it's never too late to start again. We shake our heads at the vomiting from the over drinking, smoking, and the hangovers but we sympathize because we like the guy, we want him to end up happy. Here's a country music legend who is just like his fans, a true artist, if not for his amazing abilities Bad would be just a normal man probably with the same problems. This is a film that focus's largely on both of the lead actors and the relationship they build over a two hour span is genuine and heart warming. I think it's a crime that this film didn't get nominated for Best Picture, it's simply a better film than half of the selections. Though the fact that i know it's so good, really makes me feel good about myself, that i get why it's so good.

"I wonder what's worse, living as a monster or dying a good man"

2010-02-20T11:39:00.001-08:00

Shutter Island was a pretty fascinating ride and as a critic i usually make a rule of not completely drooling over a film but it's hard. There are about 5 different conclusions along the way for what is really going on in the story and even at the end you can't be completely sure. Teddy Daniels played by Leonardo Dicaprio and his partner Chuck(Mark Ruffalo) are U.S. Marshals sent to Shutter Island to investigate a missing patient from the insane asylum institute located on the island. Located off the coast of Massachusetts, Shutter Island is housed by an old civil war castle, where the most dangerous inmates are located. Rachel is the escaped patient that Teddy and Chuck are sent to find, though the door was locked to her room, the window barred, with no conceivable way of her escaping. The film does an excellent job of building up more questions than answers and drawing the viewer in, with a precision that could only be accomplished by a few directors. There are many twists and turns and i won't spoil them for you, and as great as Scorsese has been in the past with certain films, he shines once again here.

This might be the best shot Scorsese film, with a beautiful look off the New England coast, blue ice water crashing against jagged rocks under a overcast cloudy sky, it just hits the right atmosphere for this psychological thriller. Lush greens and hard rain also add to the very detailed environment of Shutter Island. There are a few key themes that add extra dimensions to Teddy, an obvious victim of post traumatic stress disorder from fighting in World War Two, and having his wife, Dolores (Michelle Williams) die in a fire, add levels to a character we want to know. Dicaprio brings this to life in his eyes, they seem to never stop their movement as he is always searching so hard for answers. Michelle Williams plays Dolores with elegance and grace, as she would appear to Teddy because he only sees her in dreams. Wearing a yellow cocktail dress one would see in the 50's, porcelain skin and golden hair, Williams doesn't need to flex her acting muscles to pull off the role but she does anyway, and it's simply remarkable.

I knew that Shutter Island would be decent at least, but what it turned out to be was something else entirely. I love the rattling of the brain throughout the film, Scorsese's excellent handling of the human psyche was a pleasant surprise. I won't call it his best work because i know I'll incite some violence if i do, but i think it is one of my favorite works of his. The pacing, the acting, the beautiful shots of coastal New England, all of it adds up for a feel of a complete film. I really don't need to say that Dicaprio is at the top of his game, revealing all of the emotions in an outstanding performance. It's a film that I intend to see again, that challenges us with it's heavy, draining emotional scenes. It's an actors film, that allows them to open up to the audience and twist our nerves to feel, to anguish. These are just characters made up on paper, but brought to life on screen by the wonderful performances. That just happens to be my favorite part of it all, i could go on with the production quality and all of the little things that made Shutter Island a really wonderful film. Scorsese pulled it off again, though i wonder how many more times he can.

2010 Academy Awards: Best Picture

2010-02-18T05:33:00.001-08:00

So here we are again, the Oscars are airing on Sunday March 7th and as always i am excited for it.The nominations were a little disappointing, some films in my opinion didn't deserve to get nominated, a few films got snubbed, a lot of the performances that were nominated were nothing special and safe. Like Avatar even getting nominated over Watchmen, Where The Wild Things Are, Away We Go, The Girlfriend Experience, or Funny People. I can grasp The Hurt Locker, I loved Up In The Air, Inglourious Basterds and District 9 were both very good and A Serious Man was a great film. Precious and The Blind Side both play on people's sympathies as well as their stereotypes of black culture and don't ever really hit a level of significance in film making all the way throughout. Where is Michael Stuhlburg's nomination? How about Jackie Earle Haley's brilliant performance as Rorshach? Where are the technical nominations for Where The Wild Things Are and Watchmen? These are great films that aren't being noticed for how well they were made, even if you think they shouldn't get best picture nominations.

Best Picture:

The Hurt Locker

Avatar

Inglourious Basterds

District 9

An Education

The Blind Side

Precious

A Serious Man

Up In The Air

Well Up in my opinion is disqualified because it's also nominated for best animated film, sorry fans you can't have it both ways, it's one or the other. The Blind Side and Precious are contrived and easy, they aren't best picture nominees, they're feel good yay go underprivileged poor people, it's a joke. They play to a majority, they aren't films in a sense because they sell out a true message for an easy way out, which is acceptable for the majority, just not for me. A Serious Man is a great film, it won't win, and it won't come close to winning but among it's competitors it outlasts most of them. Up In The Air is good enough to win, one of the first great films of the early decade, Jason Reitman crafted an excellent picture about a man who finds something to finally live for. George Clooney molds the man into a living, breathing, confident businessman who is suddenly forced to take notice of where his life is at. A really wonderful film from beginning to end, Up In The Air strongly contends for Best Picture. The Hurt Locker is possibly the best all around film of the year, showing the insanity it takes day in and day out to disarm road side bombs. An excellent performance is on display by Jeremy Renner, though he isn't even in the running, which goes to show how good the 5 actors are that are nominated. War Is A Drug, and the intensity portrayed on screen feels so real that it rattles you as you watch everything unfold. Avatar is the fan favorite, and surprisingly has a shot to win Best Picture. I'm not tearing it down for being successful, i don't do that, it's not fair. But the story completely falls apart in the 3rd act, Sam Worthington isn't a strong enough lead actor to carry the performance necessary as Jake. The undertones of a film's story aren't supposed to come out and punch you in the face, they are supposed to be subtle and not so openly obvious. With a director like James Cameron i really expected more. District 9 and Inglourious Basterds are the two dark horses running this year. They are both fantastic, entertaining, original and subversive story telling, as well as a fair amount of humor in "Basterds" and a heartfelt focus on discrimination in District 9. An Education was a nice film, solid acting by both leads and an honest look at a girl with such intelligence at such a young age. It's enjoyable, but it's not a threat to win anything, though i liked it a lot.

A Serious Man

2010-02-13T17:38:00.000-08:00

Larry Gopnik is a serious man, and he intends to be taken as such, too bad for Larry that he also comes off as a nice guy. Being viewed as a pushover when you're trying to be taken seriously can be a trying thing. Larry is a mid to late 30's physics professor at a local university, who is going through a divorce because his wife wants to be with his best friend. A friend that consoles Larry with a hugging embrace every time he sees him, as if to say it's OK, to pacify the man into a lulling acceptance of his fate. He's being bribed by a student to give him a passing grade and the tenure committee to which he is to hear from has received detrimental letters telling them not to grant him tenure. His 13 year old son is smoking pot in bathrooms and listening to his transistor radio while in Hebrew class, all of these problems for Larry Gopnik and the head rabbi still won't see him to hear of his troubles. He has a gun happy neighbor that puts a deer carcass on the roof of his car and understandably makes Larry nervous, his other neighbor is a sex addicted housewife, and has a brother staying with him who has something "off" about him, gambling and who has solicitation issues. To say that Larry Gopnik is having a mid-life crisis is quite the understatement. While all of this is going on, somehow, someway Larry keeps it together, and even at his uttermost breaking points he is able to make it through. There is something truly admirable about that, a man who has everything that really means anything to him torn away has enough faith, has enough determination just to keep going.

The Cohen brothers wrote and directed this dark comedy and using largely unknown actors, but actors that obviously have the necessary talent, wove a story of a man who had everything taken away and just wanted to know why. Really isn't that basic human nature? We all just want some answers for why these things happen in our lives. But viewing this film i found it surprisingly hilarious, and for most viewers i have to assume that it would just bore them. It is a film that develops and builds on itself. It's come to a point that any film that takes it's own time to develop and uses subtlety to enforce it's story is shunned or taken as inadequate, though it's really just the opposite. Michael Stuhlbarg gives a very organic performance as Larry Gopnik a man who has run out of places to look for the right answers, and i thought it was one of the best performances of the year. The friend who is attempting to steal Larry's wife, Sy Ableman, played by Fred Melamed also is a wonderful performance even if it is brief. He chews up so much scenery and that is an impressive thing especially since all of his scenes were with Stuhlbarg.

A Serious Man is one of the ten best picture nominations at the Oscars this year, and it's certainly an underrated one. Though in my opinion it's at the very least the 3rd best of the nominations. It won't win any awards most likely but that doesn't mean it shouldn't be recognized as one of the years very best. A film about a man who is educated, intelligent, who has faith in a better day ahead, a day that holds promise. Is it so strange to see such hope in a film that is so dark and amusing? I don't know, but there's a lot to like if you're a fan of good film with this. Though the real message if there is one in this film, is that life has it's problems, and usually it's one right after the other, as soon as we get past one, there is another one coming along down the road.

Every Choice Is The Right Choice

2010-02-06T09:35:00.000-08:00

I've been a legal adult now for a few years and it's taken some time to get a solid foundation on what i view to be the truth. For most of us, life decisions come down to how we were raised and our parents, what kind of life they led, who they were, and what they encouraged us to do. I am not in that majority, because my mom sort of gave me a free reign on who i wanted to be, and as freeing and as wonderful as that concept is, it really left me with a lot of questions as a teenager going into adulthood. I had a every possibility open to me really and i wasn't quite sure what to do with it. So while I've now had some time to adjust to that reality, i realize that i sort of just developed into who I've always wanted to be. It's so surreal and strange that we think about who we want to be when we're older that things just fall into place by themselves. Maybe that's how life is supposed to work out, i don't know. But there are a lot of false ideas about life and reasons for why things happen. True love, religion, destiny, and fate are just a few very misled ideas that have been taken way too far. Though in my opinion all that comes back to human beings being so gullible, moronic, and uneducated.

It's interesting to see what all compiles to make a human being, all of the facets of their lives and what the end result ends up being. Usually it's quite disappointing, I'd hope that it doesn't take a lot of intellect to see the world the way i do. But as I'm learning perhaps it does, perhaps it takes more than an average intellect to see beyond yourself to the outside world, it's problems and how to logically fix them. Because you're a simple fool if you believe that California's economic woes don't impact a coal miner in southern New Jersey. I feel like I've grown so much in the past three years and i am so grateful for all of my experiences in that time and i am so happy with who i turned out to be. I mean yeah i don't believe in god, or that you're meant to be with one person for the rest of your life, and I'm OK with that because those are shallow beliefs that really have no merit.

I turned out OK i think, but that's just my own opinion and perception is reality, out of anything i think that's the truest thing I've learned throughout my life. Anything is real if you believe it, because you believe it really. The whole god question is pointless if you refuse to believe it or even acknowledge it. So do what you love, and enjoy the time you have while you're here, because if not, what's the point. So much importance is put on living a moral, god fearing life but it's like, what does that even mean? It's just a bunch of self righteous people trying to tell me or you how to live our lives, and it's like who needs it? But we all have different views of the world and we all have our own lives to lead and i can respect different views, just don't expect me to agree with you. I could have turned out seriously fucked up and everything that i now resent, so I'm pretty happy with who i am, and honestly grateful for all the experiences that have been bestowed on me.

The Grammy's Are An Exercise In Futility

2010-01-31T08:28:00.000-08:00

I like award season, usually because my taste in television and film is awarded by the foreign press or the academy of arts and sciences. But there is one award show that is very simply a joke, where diversity is nowhere in sight, and the only material awarded is the most financially profitable. I'm talking of course of the Grammy awards, which every year seem to give best album to the performer that sells the most albums. Just because you sell more records than anyone doesn't mean you have the best album, in fact in many cases, it's just the opposite. Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift, Kayne West, Owl City, Paramore, Alicia Keyes, these are all talented individuals and or groups. But the game they play isn't making the most substantial meaning in their songs, or artistically finding what they want to put out in their albums, it's making money. And that's fine, but when you sacrifice your message because you want to sell more records..well you've lost all credibility with me then. I understand that it's a business and that you're in it to make money, but there is a greater need to the art form and to future artists. It's an opinion but this music is awful, and don't get me started on how many people like this awful music.

People in general don't know what good music is, mostly i think because they are programmed by the radio stations and dance clubs on what to like. Maybe people just like awful things, i don't really know, but there isn't enough exposure for independent artists. But i suppose that's why they are called independent, can't be getting handouts from the big guys. That's how it goes, but shouldn't they at least be recognized at the only major award show for music? I think so, the award shows in film certainly award the little guy, many independent films have gone on to win best picture, best director and awards in the acting categories. But i guess if you sell the most records and the most people listen to you, you have the best album. It spells out that money = quality. What kind of message does that send to aspiring artists..not a very positive one, that's for sure. The grammy's are a joke, a farce, a fake and if you don't think so, well i honestly feel sorry for you.

The Hurt Locker Review

2010-01-17T00:14:00.001-08:00

We all are so far away from terrible things that go on in this world, most of us get up and go to work, come home to our loved ones and just go on with our lives, most of us not acknowledging where we could be or what terrible things could happen to us. Such a thought comes up when watching Katheryn Bigelow's The Hurt Locker. It gives a truly in depth look into the Iraq War and specifically a bomb squad who's job it is to defuse road side bombs. After the death of their team leader, Staff Sergeant William James(Jeremy Renner) is called in to replace him. It's seen from his first mission that James is quite the cowboy, throwing caution to the wind and rarely using precaution to life threatening situations. But there is no doubt that the man is skilled and maybe the best there is at his job. Apart of James team is Sergeant TJ Sanborn(Anthony Mackie) and Specialist Private Corporal Owen Eldridge(Brian Geraghty). They are both uneasy with the addition of James after they learn of his style, and after all they have to follow his orders. Through the entire film characters that are introduced are blown up, shot, mutilated, and otherwise killed off. It's the most surreal thing to see someone you've known for 15 years disappear with a simple explosion and now they are no more. Tension is almost never ending throughout the entire film and it makes your heart race, The Hurt Locker is one of the most intense films I've ever seen.

There is no question in my mind this is one of the most complete films of the year, a great vision from director Kathryn Bigelow. It's certainly heart wrenching at parts and constantly keeps the viewer on their toes. Jeremy Renner is spectacular using subtlety and an explosive emotional dynamic to bring James into a full fleshed character. We learn of his family back home and how he's somehow able to put them in the back of his mind, knowing that he very well could never see them again. These are all things that we think of when War is introduced, but this film brings it into a reality so authentic it hits you in the face. Even as i write this i feel heavy hearted at the reality of this war and all of the casualties, and the effects felt by the family of those casualties. There is something that seems off about James and his ability to effectively do his job almost mechanically, without emotion and with absolute precision.

There has been plenty of buzz about The Hurt Locker as a serious contender for Best Picture at The Academy Awards, and i think that's certainly a real possibility. The camera work was incredible and gave the whole film another touch of realistic intensity. Out of all of the recent films to be released about the Iraq war, this is easily the most profound, deep, and engaging. Renner creates a character that a lot of people could find reasons to dislike, but who is so authentically real that we have to relate with him on the basest level of humanity. This is not an action movie even if the film has non stop action scenes, it doesn't dumb you down, it isn't a film for people looking for an empty action flick. It has a heart, it has a brain, and if you're open to it, it can effect you pretty deeply. Is this the best film of the year? I really can't tell just yet, but it's certainly in the running.

NFL Divisional Playoffs

2010-01-15T17:28:00.000-08:00

Arizona at New Orleans

While Arizona had an impressive win last week against Green Bay, there were some major issues. New Orleans was one of the hottest teams during the regular season winning their first 13 games before losing their last 3, one of which they rested all of their starters. There has been some concern about the Saints going into the playoffs, after their hot start they have cooled down. But they needed to rest their players, hurting defensively and just trying not to bleed too much going into the playoffs. Drew Brees is the engine that drives the Saints offense and as badly as the Cardinals defense looked last week, they'll be in trouble on Saturday. The only hope for Arizona is trying to slow down the game by running the ball and playing actual defense. You could see many reasons to think Arizona is favored in this game, but you'd be forgetting about New Orleans and how good their offense and defense can be. They have had 3 weeks of rest and preparation, and that's pretty dangerous when looking at the league's best offense. There's no question in my mind the Saints march all over the Cardinals on Saturday, and they'll prove why they are the best team in the league.

Prediction: Saints 41 Cardinals 27

Baltimore at Indianapolis

The Ravens soundly beat the Patriots last Sunday and gave the rest of the playoff teams a reason to take notice. Ray Rice ran for over 150 yards including an 82 yard touchdown on the first play of the game. Even if Joe Flacco struggled to find his receivers throughout the game, the defense effectively shut down Tom Brady and the Pats offense. Peyton Manning maybe had his best year, every game he threw the ball effectively down field, and in every measurable game he was as close to unstoppable as you can be at this level. He had to work with inexperienced receivers and a new coach, the result: he won his 4th NFL M.V.P. award. The Colts still don't have much of a running game but it's not an issue when you've got a quarterback like Manning and receivers like Reggie Wayne and Dallas Clark. Look the Ravens are a nice team, they are hard working, they run the ball and play defense. But they won't be able to rattle Manning and the offense of the Colts, it'll be close but in the end it'll be too much to overcome for Baltimore.

Prediction: Colts 30 Ravens 20

Dallas at Minnesota

The Cowboys have been the most fun team to watch in the past month, and they seem like a team that could go all the way to the Super Bowl. Tony Romo is playing so well right now, he's got plenty of receivers to find in the secondary and a strong running game with Marion Barber, Felix Jones, and Tashard Choice. I think they could be the most balanced team right now, not to mention how ferocious their front seven has been, and how good their secondary has played. But then you have the Vikings who were a marvel for most of the season, Brett Favre played like an M.V.P. for most of the year and surprised many. Adrian Peterson can't be forgotten about with his amazing ability to run through, in, and around defenders on his way to the end zone. It'll be a very close game, decided by a field goal or a big defensive play, and even with the Vikings at home, i really believe in the Dallas Cowboys. I never thought those words would ever come out of my mouth

Prediction: Dallas 30 Minnesota 27

New York at San Diego

The Chargers had a tough time getting started in the beginning of the season starting 1-3, they ended up winning 12 straight to go 13-3. They did it with a dynamic offense, gutsy play calling, and a defense that was stout despite many injuries. They without a doubt were the team playing the best going into the playoffs. The Jets in my mind are an overrated team that doesn't belong in the playoffs, they're a joke. They've got a defense, they've got a running game, but it's going to hit a wall against the Chargers. Phillip Rivers will carve up the Jets defense and it won't be pretty, Mark Sanchez will prove to be flat and ineffective, being intercepted at least twice. I'll be surprised if they score more than 10 points. For all of you reading this and saying that the Jets defense is really good and can hold the chargers offense, Phillip Rivers threw for over 400 yards against a comparable Ravens defense.

Prediction: Chargers 34 Jets 13

Big Fan Review

2010-01-14T15:39:00.001-08:00

Paul loves the New York Giants and really that's an understatement, which is why "Big Fan" is a perfect title for this story of sports fanaticism. Working at night in a parking garage, Paul frequently calls into a local New York radio show, reading his written out rant to talk down his nemeses Philadelphia Phil. It's easy to see the guy should really get a life but he doesn't want to, this is his life, this is what he wants. One night at a local pizzeria Paul and his friend Sal see their favorite player filling up his car at the gas station across the street. They follow him all the way from Staten Island to a Manhattan strip club. Paul and Sal introduce themselves and let it slip out that they followed him to the club. Paul is beaten pretty brutally by his favorite player, a player who's jersey he wears every single Sunday. The aftermath of the whole ordeal is Paul having to decide whether to press charges against the man that has brought him so much pride and passion. The resulting climax of the film is both disheartening and pitiful, but it's the life of a fanatical fan and his zealotry passion for his favorite player and team.

This is a film about a guy that really has an addiction, and the game is the drug, calling into radio stations at 2 in the morning, tailgating outside the stadium and watching the game in the parking lot, feeling as if his cheering can will his team to win. Played brilliantly by Patton Oswalt, Paul is portrayed as sympathetic and sad, and all you can feel is empathy for the guy. Director Robert Siegal wrote The Wrestler and does a fine job, following Paul through his daily life, showing that he lives with his mother, no social life except with family and his sole friend Sal. Siegal creates a world that is our own, who creates characters who are prevalent in the New York area, and anyone who knows New York, knows this. It's interesting in some of the high tension scenes when Paul is arguing with his family, it's hard to hear dialogue, and that's really well done because that's how it is when you are fighting with someone and you are shouting over each other. Big Fan is a bit disturbing, dark, and overwhelmingly sad but the performances are nuanced and authentic and Patton Oswalt gives a genuinely sympathetic performance that leaves the viewer feeling a bit empty.

"I'm gonna wrap your legs around my face and wear you like the crown you are."

2010-01-11T15:23:00.001-08:00

OK OK, maybe that was a little much for the title of my review for the film Youth In Revolt, but it's a pretty hilarious line in context. I didn't have many expectations going into this film, but Michael Cera has a knack for picking good projects to work on even if his biggest criticism is that he plays similar characters in all of his films. But he is surprisingly crafts a new, full fleshed, dynamic character or characters i should say. Cera plays Nick Twisp, who likes Sinatra, foreign films, and substantive prose. He's not like most guys his age, he's soft spoken, intelligent, and unfortunately for him he's also a nice guy. He lives with his trailer trash mother and her boyfriend (Zach Galifinakis), in a house in Oakland. They move to a trailer park and that's where Nick meets Sheeni Saunders(Portia Doubleday) the love of his life, he believes. They start a courtship that is seemingly average and ordinary, until Nick has to move back to his old house in Oakland, and is separated from her. They both scheme and manipulate to be close to one another, but then she is sent to a french boarding school. Throughout the next parts Nick finds ways to be with Sheeni, and through some insane hi jinks (which make for some great amusement) the nice guy gets the girl, even if he does some awful and manipulative thing along the way.

It was a very pleasant surprise seeing this, i was taken aback at how funny and how equally genuine the story was. It might be the best film that articulates what it is to be a teen aged male, virgin. There are very fine elements on display here, and i was sitting in my chair today in the theater and i thought "what a wonderful time we live in, a golden comedy age". There seem to be more and more comedies that are hilarious while having an even balance of real, genuine emotion. This is yet another example of that, and the whole way through the film i was just really enjoying myself. A lot of critics talk about it being a story of lust, and while that is on display here i have to say that love is also on display, even if it's a silly, foolish love. All of the obstacles that nick jumps over, including creating an alter ego, just to get to be with the girl he loved. It's not hard to see why i might see that over lust, because at the end of the day Cera is playing a teenager, so that does come in play. But there is substance to this character, we root for him, because some of us have been there before, some of us in part are this character.

The screenplay is well written, based on the book of the same name, Youth In Revolt surpassed what it set out to do, and did it well. It made me laugh, quite a bit and made me feel something for the characters and their disadvantage, probably because I've been there before. Sure there is some crazy things that happen, for Nick to win over his girl, but much of the film is realistic and real feeling. The director does a nice job of introducing supporting characters and bringing them back into the story where they need to be put, and this is something that isn't real obvious, but it's well done. It's about that point in our lives where we first experience exhilaration and our addiction to that feeling. It isn't wholly sexual, though that is part of it, it's about feeling something new and exciting and not being able to express that fully because it's so new and exciting. This day being my 21st birthday it takes me back to what I was like at that age. For all of those nay saying critics, maybe they are so far removed from joy and excitement that they too forget what it was like being 16 and finding that enjoyment in something so basic and so simple.

NFL Wildcard Weekend

2010-01-07T15:16:00.000-08:00

I have many fond memories of the NFL's Wildcard Weekend, Steve Young's long pass to Terrell Owens as time expired to beat the Packers, Darren Sproles overtime scamper for a touchdown to knock off the Colts. It's a great time for a fan, especially when you can just enjoy the game because your team didn't quite make it to the post season. Every year the NFL playoffs seem to get better and better. Whether it's upsets, fantastic plays, or down to the wire finishes, every game is worth watching. This year is no different, as I'm sure there will be at least one surprise team and it's any one's guess who will play for a championship in the Super Bowl.

New York Jets 9-7 at Cincinnati Bengals 10-6:

It was an interesting year for both the Bengals and the Jets who started out with excellent records and then sort of faded down the stretch. The Jets looked unstoppable with a 3-0 start, a dominating defense, and a seemingly unflappable rookie quarterback in Mark Sanchez. But they ran into a rough spot where their offense couldn't produce and they ran into some tough games. The Bengals were a lot more consistent beating both of their fierce division rivals Pittsburgh and Baltimore twice, and losing a close game to the 2nd seed Chargers by 3. Not to mention the last second win by the broncos on a tipped pass, for all intents and purposes the Bengals should be a 12 win team. This game will come down to who can control the clock and commit the fewest turnovers. Both teams like to grind it out on the ground, though the Bengals are the better passing team and can expose the Jets secondary as long as they don't throw to Darrelle Revis's side. The Jets are one of the best blitzing defenses and Carson Palmer needs to expose them when they do. The biggest concern for New York is their quarterback, who after an excellent start fell back to earth and looked the part of first year player in the NFL. When it's all said and done the Bengals will handle the young Jets team, and move onto the divisional round. Prediction: Cincinnati 27 New York 16

Philadelphia 11-5 at Dallas 11-5:

Last week the Eagles laid a big egg(no pun intended) in Big D and dropped the chance to get a 2nd round bye, by losing to the Cowboys 24-0. It was a little disconcerting to Eagle fans to see their team who had won 6 in a row just get blanketed by their division rival, not to mention the fact that they have to face the same team again this week at the same location. The Cowboys have been solidly consistent all year long and bolster an even air and ground attack. I really lost a lot of faith in the Eagles with that loss and unless they can get it together, they are going to be in a lot of trouble on Saturday night. But their an experienced team, they've got Donovan Mcnabb, Desean Jackson, and Brian Westbrook and they can score some points. Dallas will bring the heat with their blitz's and it'll be up to Mcnabb to find the open man when that happens, he wasn't able to last week in their meeting. This game will be more evenly matched, and a lot more offense, but i can't see the Eagles defense putting a stop to the Cowboys offense, and that is what will decide the game. Prediction: Cowboys 38 Eagles 30.

Green Bay 11-5 at Arizona 10-6

The Cardinals have had a similar season as they did last year when they made their run to the Super Bowl, but if there is anything to look favorably upon this post season, it is that they won one more game this season. The team had similar injuries and similar offensive and defensive output during this season. They can't stop the pass, they are good against the run, and their offense is very explosive. So really no changes, they won the NFC west and will once again host at least one playoff game. The Packers meanwhile have changed quite a bit, with a revamped 3-4 defense, improved offense, and staying healthy all throughout the year. This will be an offensive shootout and it's clearly in the Packers favor. They can control the clock more efficiently with Ryan Grant running the ball and Aaron Rodgers can take advantage of the dead last ranked Cardinals pass defense. The Cardinals will put up some points in this one but it won't be enough to beat Green Bay. Prediction Green Bay 31 Arizona 20.

Baltimore 9-7 at New England 10-6

Baltimore's 2009 season was really a mixed bag, they fought injuries, tough losses, and playing some really good teams. But they came through, late in the season and were able to get into the playoffs. Baltimore has become more of a pass offense with emergence of 2nd year quarterback Joe Flacco and running back Ray Rice. The Ravens defense while not as dominant as last year has been solid all year behind linebacker Ray Lewis, Ed Reed former defensive player of the year has been injured for much of the season. But it's a solid team that will play any team down to the wire, as they nearly defeated the Vikings earlier this season on a late missed field goal. The Patriots are no doubt the best team of the past decade with 3 Super Bowl championships and 4 appearances. Tom Brady and Randy Moss are the standards for their respective positions and will score points on anyone. Despite Wes Welker being out, Brady and the offense will find ways to score. This will be a very close game, with it being decided probably by a field goal but i just see Tom Brady winning another close playoff game, once again. Prediction: New England 24 Baltimore 21.

#1 Donnie Darko

2009-12-31T14:36:00.000-08:00

I know, I know you think this is somehow connected to my previous "emo" roots and that I'm just over justifying it's poignancy and originality. But if you think this film has anything to do with "emo" or any musical genre than you are a moron. Donnie Darko was released in 2001 with a director's cut release in 2004, Richard Kelly's first attempt and it was simply a walk off home run. Jake Gyllenhall plays Donnie a 16 year old kid who is a little different, he's self aware and has a giant bunny rabbit named Frank that he talks to when he sleep walks. Frank tells him the world will end in about a months time and in the concluding 28 days Donnie learns about his role in the preventing the world from ending. In that time Donnie floods his school, gets a girlfriend, swears out Patrick Swayze and sets his friends straight on why the smurfs can't fuck smurfette. There are quite a few comedic scenes that are just hilarious. The film is set in 1988 and is really done perfectly, it feels like 1988. His parents see him for who he is even if they are troubled by his shenanigans and issues. His sister is laid back enough played by real life sister Maggie Gyllenhall except for a hilarious opening scene when talking about her going to Harvard. As Donnie hurdles toward his destiny he clashes with Beth Farmer the school's gym teacher and moral steward, she's ignorant and blinded by Jim Cunningham (Swayze's motivational speaking character). The story itself needs to be gone over multiple times for most viewers because of it's depth and perception of all the events.

The story is complex and illusive, and i can't even begin to explain all of it, you need to watch the film multiple times to get the whole picture. Jake Gyllenhall is phenomenal as a confused, witty, smart, scared, teenage boy who is terrified of his known destiny but faces it head on regardless. There are many layers to the character and I'm not sure we even get to see all the layers to Donnie Darko. The character is so fascinating, I'm almost disappointed that I only got two hours of him. From his scathing remarks to his tearful expectations of the sky opening up, Gyllenhall is wonderful in so many ways. Richard Kelly writes a fascinating story and weaves a terrific web of twists and turns. His direction is nearly flawless in every possible way, a big underrated quality to the film is the lighting, because it sets everything up perfectly.

This is one of the best films of the last decade and in my opinion should be much higher on many others' lists. It's listed credibility is being in a top 10 of cult films of the decade but it is so much more than that. It might not reach a huge audience and most people probably won't like it the first time or any time they see it, but Donnie Darko reaches out into the unknown to see what is possible in film. It dares to be great, it succeeded and is a great milestone in film for it's original vision and for it's amazing ingenuity. Great acting, directing, writing, vision and guts all come together to make an incredible film. As i type away on my Macbook keyboard, i can't help but think someone is quoting this film and saying out loud: "I'm voting for Dukakis".

#2 Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind

2009-12-31T13:23:00.000-08:00

We've all been in love, felt it's overwhelming bliss, and have felt it's cold, bitter sting when it ceases to exist. Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind is pretty much just about how great love is and how awful it can be. I don't know if I've ever seen a film play both sides of the coin so effectively. Being a semi cynical guy most of the time i find it hard to talk about love in a serious and substantive conversation. But this film does exactly that, it talks about love in a grown up realistic manner. Directed by visionary director Michel Gondry and written by Charlie Kaufman, Eternal Sunshine is a one of a kind, visionary and unique picture that leaves us sad and makes us feel OK about it at the same time. Gondry is known for his unusual but effective film techniques, as strange as his films are they always deliver and that makes them that much more impressive. Eternal Sunshine revolves around Joel Barish(Jim Carey) who wakes up one day and for unexplained reasons skips out on work, hops a train to Montauk, and walks on the beach all on Valentines Day. On the way back to his New York apartment Joel meets Clementine(Kate Winslet) who is seemingly everything Joel isn't. They awkwardly hit it off, but they hit it off non the less. What happens next can only be explained by viewing the movie, but people's minds get erased and it's realized that we only can grasp the good moments when they're long gone.

Beautifully shot and directed by Gondry, this is his finest film, as much as i liked The Science Of Sleep, Eternal Sunshine is incredibly poignant on many levels and hits home a strong message about love, how that it doesn't work out a lot of the time, but it's OK, because you had a lot of good time didn't you? Though it's a simple notion, we all want at least one person to be there for us, to give a shit, to want us to be around. But it evolves beautifully and Kauffman should be credited for that achievement. The problems within the relationship between Joel and Clementine are not extraordinary, she's immature and loud and he's introverted and doesn't share his feelings very well. They are opposites and a lot of those relationships falter because after the attraction wears off really what is there? But as much as they fight, they stay together, because really they're all the other has in their life. Jim Carey gives the best performance of his career as the opposite of everything he's ever played. The fact that the man didn't receive an Oscar nomination is a crime and I'm still waiting for charges to be brought up on the Academy. Kate Winslet though, was really sensational as a loud mouthed, opinionated, strong woman. She perfects the northeastern American accent, and at one point she becomes the character at that point it ceases to be acting.

There are a lot of things to take away from this film it's artsy, beautiful, touching, intelligent, interesting, engaging, thoughtful and poignant. The film teaches us that we should look at the whole picture when it comes to love the good, the bad, the very best, and the very worst. I know that love can be heart breaking and can tear you apart. But it can also be the very best thing that ever happens to you. It's all displayed beautifully and painfully in the two hours that you're watching Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind. From top to bottom it's an excellent picture, and most films don't come close to touching this film and the really amazing thing about it all is it's ability to connect everyone to it's message. Because we're all human beings, we all feel, we all love, we all hurt. We all get it, that's why it matters, because we all feel something, we all are in this existence together, and that's why this film ultimately is so important.

#3 Brick

2009-12-30T18:28:00.000-08:00

Joseph Gordon-Levitt has come a long way since 3rd rock from the sun and 10 Things I Hate About You, and really has been one of the better young actors of the past decade. When it comes to all of his films one the most underrated, one of the most original and in my opinion best, is 2005's Brick. Written by first time director Rian Johnson, Brick is part film-noir, part murder mystery and part high school. The whole language of the picture is brilliant, organic and gives a refreshing feel. Set at an southern California high school Brendan(Gordon-Levitt) is a loner who knows all the ins and outs of the crowds but stays out. When his ex girlfriend is murdered he turns into a detective to track down those responsible. You meet the high school elites Brad and Laura(Nora Zehetner) who aren't what they seem, as Brendan digs deeper he upsets the local drug king pin and is beaten to a pulp by his muscle known as Tug(Noah Fleiss). But internal bleeding and all, Brendan finds redemption, and even if it comes at a bittersweet price, it is redemption non the less.

Most people probably haven't seen the film, but is required viewing, there are so many elements that are done so well, not to mention that it's all by a first time writer and director. Rian Johnson also released the solid "Brothers Bloom" and made an incredible first effort. With the exception of Gordon-Levitt, all of the actors in this film are unknown and do a fairly remarkable job with their performances, especially Zehetner. The stylish, film-noir style, writing and combination of past and present culture meshed together makes for a wondrous environment and setting. None of it could be pulled off without the multi layered performance of Gordon-Levitt, a tough outer layer teemed with a softer, gentler, intimate, interior. Slowly the tough, outer armor deteriorates and we see the whole Brendan, all of who he is, its excellently portrayed by Gordon-Levitt who gives an unbelievably authentic, genuine performance.

As a whole film nothing compares to what Brick was able to pull off in style, in substance, not to mention as an extremely impressive debut from first time writer/director Rian Johnson. I can understand if most people don't understand how good this film is. I hate saying that people just didn't get a film, but really if someone can't appreciate this film it's usually the case. Brick adds an intriguing grit to southern California, and adds another dimension to it's characters. As strange as it sounds the writing is a real treat here, a quick witted and clever take on films like The Maltese Falcon. The story is also very well constructed and it can't really be understated how good the whole film is. Filled with mystery, doubt, manipulation, style, and clever dialogue, Brick is easily one of my favorite films of the decade.

Up In The Air: Probably The Year's Best Film

2009-12-26T13:07:00.001-08:00

As I sat in my theater chair, enchanted by style and substance at the same time, i couldn't help but think about all of the people that see themselves as the character George Clooney plays. Ryan Bingam is a termination expert, companies hire him to do their dirty work. He lives a life of solitude, most of the year is spent in hotel rooms and ordering room service, because he is so efficient and capable at his job. With the film being set in the current time, it's quite a relevant story line. As the film opens up, a meeting is called by Ryan's company and we enter with a Anna Kendrick's character Natalie Keener. A recent graduate from Cornell, Natalie came to the company with plenty of ideas on how to be even more efficient at their business. When Ryan challenges her about the goings on of the business it's seen that she needs hands on training with the brutal truth about their work. As the scenes progress into the feature it can be seen how much the job wears on the newcomer, and how uncomfortable she is at her job, no matter how good she is at it. Through several stops Ryan meets Alex(Vera Farmiga) they hit it off instantly and start a "casual" relationship. She tells him that "I can't be like this when I'm at home, you're my escape". As the story progresses we see an amazing amount of character development in all three leads, something that is so rarely seen, I'm beginning to think it'll die out soon. Without giving away too much of the story, it finally comes to a sad but very beautiful ending, that leaves the viewer wanting a lasting resolution.

There is a sort of feeling that is still sitting in my stomach now more than two hours after seeing this film. There's a great piece of writing and it's executed brilliantly by Clooney who in my opinion gave the best performance of his career. As i said above there is an amazing amount of character development, and we see Ryan transform before our eyes, realizing that he needs people in his life, and that when asked "what's the point" he says "there isn't one, but think about the best times of your life, did you spend them alone, or with people, with people that you love?" That really hit me hard, that the point of life and thinking and facing our own mortality is a hard test for anyone, but you're going to die someday, anyway so wouldn't you want to spend it with people you love? It's a beautifully performed transformation and I'd be hard pressed to pick a better acting performance this year. Anna Kendrick was a surprise with how vulnerable she made her character to be while always trying to maintain a front of self assurance. It really impressed me and her name has been thrown around with Oscar consideration for best supporting actress. There is a classy, charming quality to the performance of Vera Farmiga, she exudes beauty in her personality as much as her appearance and is one of the best kept secrets in Hollywood. She has the ability of being a scene stealer and lights up the atmosphere and screen every time she appears.

This is Jason Reitman's third film and the two before it were also very good, but i think this is his best effort yet. Up In The Air blends dramatic themes, comedic sympathies, and a deep insight into a complicated man, even if we see him as something much simpler. We peer into this man's soul as he enjoys his life to realizing that he's all alone, and that he wants all of the things he's been avoiding all of his life. Reitman reaches out with soft tones and touches the audience gently, letting you know hey it's OK to feel something. The soundtrack is wonderful and has an excellent Elliot Smith song that fits perfectly with the mood of the film. It's really an up and down, ascending and descending feel of a story. It's the most real film i think I've ever seen, it felt like i was watching someones life, i felt apart of the story. Reitman has a real touch of humanity in all of his pictures and this one, most of all. After all it's about a man who fires people for a living, and has to put out of his mind that he's putting people in worse situations than they were before they met him. A lot of people won't get it and even fewer will truly appreciate the film for what it is, but Up In The Air is quite an amazing picture. I thought the closing shot was befitting, a wide open sky, almost to signify Ryan's empty life.

Avatar: Dear James Cameron, no amount of special effects make up for storyline

2009-12-24T13:48:00.000-08:00

Avatar has been hailed as visionary, as this generations Star Wars or Blade Runner, that it is the best film of the past 30 years and will change film making forever. The film takes place in the future, like these science fiction films often do, on a distant planet called Pandora. Ex Marine Jake Sully has lost the use of his legs when he is offered to take over for his deceased brother, who was a scientific researcher on the planet, he takes the offer not really knowing what he is getting himself into. To make a long story short and because there isn't much of a story to tell really, he uses his avatar to get close to the native species, the navi. He becomes close with the people and then the American troops come in to take the land which has a valuable mineral in the land. The veil of transparency is so thin when dealing with the political undertones, with the environment, the Iraq war, and our past relations with the native Americans. Jake must choose a side, and everyone knows what choice he will make because this is a mainstream Hollywood movie.

Don't take my negative tone to say that the film had nothing to offer, it was a technical achievement that will be seen as revolutionary and literally amazing. It is the most beautiful film i have ever seen, gorgeous in every aspect. Cameron and his crew should nab every technical Oscar this upcoming season, and they deserve it. It took the guy more than 10 years and 350 million dollars to put this together, so some attention should be paid to that. With having said that there is the storyline, plot and character development, and emotional poignancy to take into account. Sam Worthington who plays Sully, is a very weak lead actor and weighs down the movie at it's most emotionally important parts. The "bad guy" is so cliche' and expectantly one sided that there isn't anything further to achieve from examining him. The most important emotional parts of the film, fall flat and leave the viewer with an uninspired, blah feeling. There are some nice supporting roles from Sigourney Weaver and Zoe Saldana, but they can't save a pretty weak cast all together.

It was an adventure thrill ride make no mistake about it, visually it was extravagant and wildly entertaining at parts, but Avatar falls flat when trying to add genuine feeling to a topic that could have been explored and touched viewers deep with a huge range of emotion. Cameron is a technical marvel and he should be awarded for that, but when it comes to a whole film feel, Cameron fails. Great effects, i mean mind blowing cgi that is unparalleled, and while it's enough for most viewers(Avatar made $77 million last weekend) it's not enough for me. A film comparable to Star Wars and the Lord of the Rings Trilogy, i think not, those films had substance well beyond Avatar. Will it change film forever? Yeah it's quite possible especially with it's technical feats. But when it comes to the fundamentals of storytelling and solid lead acting, Avatar can't deliver.

#4 Little Children

2009-12-24T05:06:00.000-08:00

Based off of the book of the same title by author Tom Perrotta, Little Children is in many ways an unknown, often passed over, remarkable film. The setting is Massachusetts in the summer time, the story intersecting around 2 couples, a registered sex offender, and an ex police officer. The two couples in question are Sarah(Kate Winslet) and Richard(Greg Edelman) the contrasting couple is Brad(Patrick Wilson) and Kathy(Jennifer Connelly). Sarah is completely dissatisfied with her marriage, she feels unengaged and ignored, and to top it off she comes home one day to find her husband masturbating to S&M porn. She takes her kids to the park every day where she sees Brad with his son, and one day is dared by the other women there with their kids to talk with him. An affair comes out of the entire ordeal, and brings a new passion into Sarah's life like nothing else ever has. Brad feels guilty because he loves his wife, though she keeps pushing him to pass the bar exam, to become a lawyer, since his football days are long over. Brad and Sarah are able to get away with the affair by using their kids as the excuse, taking them to the pool and to the park. Though things get messy near the end with the affair having run it's course and both parties needing to either move to the next step with each other or move on. Ronnie Mcgorvey(Jackie Earle Haley) was just released from prison and is living with his mother. He just tries his best to cope with he disease but is unrestlessly taunted and tormented by ex police officer Larry Hedges(Noah Emmerich). There is a back and forth, sort of tug of war between obvious good and bad characters, though those lines become blurred as the story progresses.

This is a wonderful take on the suburbs and how much of a trap they are for the "life" we all desire, on how if we had our lives documented we probably wouldn't be people that our peers liked, really at all. It shows humans as exactly what we are, flawed, beautiful, awful, terrible, monstrosities. There is some really excellent voice over narration by Will Lyman really sets the mood for great storytelling. Patrick Wilson plays a likable, flawed, character who generally gets my pity. Jennifer Connelly comes off as cold, disenchanted, and distant but i suppose that's her giving a good performance. There is a lot to be said for Jackie Earle Haley who gave his first performance in this film for the first time since The Bad News Bears and earned an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor. He (if at all possible) plays a character i felt sympathy for, even if i know what he's done. He knows he's a terrible person for all that he's done, and he has to live with that for the rest of his life. I wouldn't characterize his character as a bad person, just someone who is sick and can't control his impulses. Kate Winslet plays a very strong feminist character with direct references to Madame Bovery, she's had enough of living a sheltered, mundane life.

Little Children is fantastic because it shows us the worst of humanity and let's us know that most of us act this very way. If we really got to know our friends, our family, deep down for who they are, what they believe and what they've done, can we honestly say that they are likable people? I always find it so annoying when reviewers say " i just didn't find any of the characters likable" well you know what, that's called realistic characterization. All of the characters in this movie are unlikable, but there is good in every one of them, just like people, we're awful to one another, do terrible things, but there is good in all of us. There is an excellent football scene which is a direct nod to NFL Films with it's style and substance. Looking over the entire film, it's just a brilliant dramatic look at human life in the suburbs, and what we do to keep our souls alive.

My 5 Favorite Films Of The Decade: #5 I <3 Huckabees

2009-12-23T07:02:00.000-08:00

When you try to gage someones reaction after watching I Heart Huckabees the most common response is " I don't get it". Which is the overwhelming reason why it's one of my favorite films of the decade. "Huckabees" stars Jason Schwartzmen as Albert, a intelligent, logical, thought provoking younger man who is environmentally conscious and wondering really what it's all about. He hires a couple to investigate him, to tell him what it means that he keeps running across the same tall African man. Meanwhile Albert meets with Brad(Jude Law) an executive with Huckabees, a department store. His plan is to use Albert to his advantage while looking to the public like his company is Eco-friendly and then take the land Albert is preserving and turning it into a strip mall. He notices that Albert has hired the couple to investigate his life, so Brad does the same. He ends up having a nervous breakdown because of his own mischievous and backstabbing behavior. We meet Tommy(Mark Wahlburg) a fireman who is so Eco-friendly he won't ride in a firetruck. There is a lot of philosophic discussion, deep thought put into these complex ideas, and humans treating each other, how humans do.

There's something about Jason Schwartzmen, he just has a very likable quality about him, he plays a very nice, kind, articulate, educated individual, which almost makes him the perfect character to oppose the big corporation of Huckabees. I can't say I've liked most of what Wahlburg has done in his acting career but he gives one of his better performances, straight faced and absolutely dead pan hilarious. I Heart Huckabees isn't for everyone, hell it's not for most people or even a demographic. It's a special group that understands what the film reaches out and grasps, it's a film for those who can get past the surface and read the actors portraying people they could probably be in another life. It's a completely uncompromising film with a lot of quirks, oddities, and specific acting. David O. Russel the director is overwhelmingly brave for taking on this project, it could have certainly come out a lot worse. Uncompromising, humorous, and thought provoking I Heart Huckabees is the film that you won't get, and hey it doesn't give a fuck.

You Can't Have Your Cake And Eat It Too

2009-12-13T17:45:00.000-08:00

It's been argued by many that i have met that politics have no place in the real world, that they don't matter to the average person. But the simple fact is that they do and that they should. I understand how most of America works, and I'm living that life right now as I'm typing this blog. You get up in the morning, go to a job you probably dislike very much and work with people you resent. You come home to your kids and their issues and their day, your wife or husband and talk about what kind of day they had. It's mundane and uneventful but it's your life and really it's all you've got. That's most of America, day after day, week after week, year after seemingly endless year. The rest of us either have money to do whatever we want, whenever we want or are idealists who lack the finances to change the world as they see it should be changed. I land in the latter category and it's a real struggle fighting for what i believe in because i live in a country and a world that is dominated by greed and selfishness. But pro capitalism supporters support it because it benefits them either that or they are too afraid of looking at the true nature of the country they live in.

Too many people rely on tradition, rely on what their parents laid onto them to actually form their own logical opinions. I can't live anyone else's life for them and it's hard to convince people of things they "know" in their "heart and soul" is just..wrong. But that's who you have to convince to promote real change and real action. But these people are idiots, simply put and any change (and the kind I'm talking about is drastic) and it scares them away, to hide away in their religion and patriotism. What a joke, is this what the democratic process has turned into? Huge campaigns instilling fear into these simple minded people, so they vote a certain way, mostly to support huge corporations and special interest groups.

We sort of all see the future as this civilized society, all of us getting along, with huge advancements in medicine and technology. But it seems that our political and social climate hasn't changed at all in many areas and pockets of the country. The same hate for gender, race, religion, and sexual orientation still exists in much of this country. But why because they are different, because you don't understand them? There is no place in the current civilized world for intolerance and ignorance, no place but the United States. I love my country and that's why i want it to change for the better, but it seems impossible with these misinformed, uneducated morons. If we don't educate ourselves, if we let these massive campaigns tell us who we are, there won't be a future.

Maybe that's how it should be marketed to these people, tell big corporations to stop polluting god's planet. Just feed into the idiocy that religion provides people to find comfort in, wouldn't god want every couple to be happy, regardless if they are gay or straight? What would god think of us if we can't take care of the poor and put our children in better schools. Only a true cynic would see the world in such a way. But i do, and I really don't think the idea is that ridiculous this country is too god and gun happy, it's really regressive behavior. But hey that's how it is in our country present day. I don't have any answers, just that a progressive liberal agenda is the answer, and really i don't care how we get there, but for everyone who's not on board you're either with us or you're in the way.

I Don't Know If I Ever Knew Anything

2009-12-06T13:41:00.000-08:00

No, nothing major happened this past weekend, I've really been full of self doubt and doubt about my surroundings my entire life. Always posing questions and never taking anything for granted, because as soon as you do it bites you in the ass. I'm at a crossroad of sorts in my life and I'm not sure what the fuck I'm doing. I hate where i am, I'd love to just run off to Olympia with the reason being I'm helping out a friend and starting a new life in the pacific northwest. But is it what is best for me? Well i can still go to school, it'll just be harder having bills to pay and a full time job along with it. So I'm still keeping my plan of going to school and getting an education so i can go into a career with something to show and a steady paycheck. All of that's nice but hundreds of things could happen from now until then that could deter me from pursuing that. If that happens I'm just back where i am now and i don't really want to be here anymore. It's taking a chance that everything on paper will work out, but there's no guarantee there isn't anything, anyone can say to me to make me feel more secure. I guess I'll just have to decide for myself, something i really don't like about being an adult.

There's a lot on my mind about one of my roommates, if i would move out to Olympia. I'm fairly certain it'll go nowhere because i have no self esteem or confidence. It's pretty damaging to my dating life. Just because i hate the social, political, and environmental surroundings i have doesn't mean i can just leave, right? It seems so irresponsible, though i have no ties to the area except my mother. I am really looking forward to living in western Washington, but then what? I mean the adventure aspect is great but what the hell am i supposed to do with it once i have it? Go to school, work a job that supports me, yeah but it's just a new place to learn and new people to try and meet. I'm looking forward to it, don't get me wrong, but the question just keeps coming up in my mind, will it all work out? I can't possibly know the answer.

It's Time Again, To Give Thanks

2009-11-25T08:48:00.000-08:00

I'll be honest, I don't want to be writing right now, I'm in a lethargic, depressed, gloomy mood and I'd rather just curl up in a ball. But it's important, because giving thanks to whatever, for whatever is crucial. Thanksgiving is really just a reminder how lucky we are and it's sad to think about how we all take for granted what we have and for who we have in our lives. We give thanks for our friends, our family, our jobs, our livlihoods and how without them we would be lost. Giving thanks for all of the experiences and all of the wonderful moments we've come to appreciate in the past year. But giving thanks for the bad moments as well, for the terrible things that have happened, because without them we wouldn't be who we are today. Maybe that's a little much, but it's how i feel, i'd like to think that every person i've come into contact with has shaped me into the person i am today. That's the hopeful optimist in me despite my current mood, but for whatever reason Holidays make me feel optimistic. I like Thanksgiving, it's being grateful for what you have and trying to continue to appreciate all that you have. This isn't going to be a long blog entry, just simple and genuine. Be grateful for what you have, who you have in your life, because today you have those things and those people, and tomorrow you might not.

Why I'm So Pissed Off

2009-11-16T06:53:00.000-08:00

Ever since i could talk, i have voiced my opinion. As soon as i could I've written what I've thought, without thinking of consequence, without compromise. Look I love this country, i think it's great but i think it could be so much better. All of the problems we have can be fixed with modern solutions, with the exception possibly of alternative energy. I get so worked up, so upset, and so focused on the people standing in the way of progressive change, that it causes me physical pain in the form of massive headaches. So how do you not get so worked up, how do you just accept things as they are and realize that they're really not going to change? I think the answer is simple and it's that most people just don't give a fuck. All they care about is going to their job, driving their car, coming home to their nice families, in their nice homes, to all of their nice things. That's what it comes down to in America, that's the American dream. There are so many pre-conceived notions and negative connotations about socialism and capitalism. While we have a capitalist system it says fuck you to all of the people who simply can't make it.

You have a great job, but you lose it, and you can't find work, i mean what are you supposed to do? Have you just lost while play the game and that's it for you? I don't understand that, what does it say about a country that doesn't take care of it's citizens, of saying "oh, too bad, good luck, bye" what the hell is that? While socialism is painted as a government controlling your life regime, really it's about taking care of it's people, and lending help to people when they need it. But we don't care because we're all selfish, and that we don't give a shit about one another. I'd like to believe that's not all completely true, I'd like to believe in people, in the human race. But every single time I've seen this world change, it's taken a step backwards. I'm 20 years old and I'm just so apathetic, jaded, cynical, and lethargic. I've seen this world's true face, but I've also seen the exception.

I've seen a lot of good out of a lot of good people, I've seen generous, heartfelt, honest behavior out of these people. Such selflessness shown that i can't give up all hope on people, at least not all of them. It might be a great reason to move back to Washington to surround myself with substantive, intelligent, logical, thinking people, who appreciate the things i appreciate and who know me and like me for exactly who i am. So maybe I'll never rid myself of my outstanding anger, but at least I'll be able to manage it being around people who are understanding and compassionate. This is my life and it's all i have, and i have issues but everyone does, and if i can at least deal with them a bit, just deal that's all, I'll be okay. I think at the very least that makes things as they are adequate and acceptable.

Where The Wild Things Are

2009-10-25T16:18:00.000-07:00

Coming out of Spike Jonze's Where The Wild Things Are, I had a smile on my face and felt like something had overcome me, something i couldn't fully explain. The classic children's book was released in 1963 tells the tale of Max, a disobedient boy who wears a wolf's costume terrorizing small animals and threatens to eat them up. He gets sent to bed without his supper and then travels to a far off island to Where The Wild Things Are. The film has a lot more to the story and it has to, because it's 140 minutes long. It took almost 30 years to get this film to the screen and I'm thankful they took the time to get it right. I can't begin to express what this film has made me feel and how it opened my heart up to optimism once again. It took me back to being a kid, made me feel hopeful and wishful. I could only hope that half of the audience that goes to see this can have the potential to see what I've seen.

Max(Max Records) has issues, not really extraordinary issues, the same ones that kids deal with everyday. Max's father is gone and seems to be almost completely out of his life, his sister doesn't pay any attention to him and has friends of her own, he's alone and angry at his disposition. Sure the kid is about 8 but these are real issues that we've all dealt with and arguably are harder to deal with at a younger age. Even his mother(Catherine Keener) is seeing a new "friend" and doesn't spend as much time with Max. After a fight where he bites his mother he runs away to his fantasy world, jumping on a small sail boat and sailing to the island Where The Wild Things Are. Max comes to discover the Wild Things recklessly destroying things, and soon joins in and claims to be their king. As Max meets each of the wild things a certain relationship is formed with each one. As the story progresses you come to realize that each of the Wild Things represents either a part of Max himself or one of his family members.

The film is so beautiful in technical aspects, substance, and cinematography it is a pleasure and privilege to feast your eyes on the screen. Jonze takes a huge risk and shows his bravery with his choices in how to tell this story, he opts to tell a story about childhood and not a children's story. The film works on two levels as a child viewing it they can follow the story and take interest in the characters and what happens with them. The other level is for older viewers who can recognize the significance of the events that happen in Max's fantasy and how they help him grow. Jonze's risks pay off big time in my opinion, and there isn't a happier viewer than myself. I saw something behind all of the eyes of the Wild Things as well as Max's. Each view of their eyes, i saw sadness, loneliness, and understanding. An ocean of calm, beaten down, emptiness that flowed through the screen to my ocular cavity. There were at least a half dozen times that i was moved, my heart swelled, and my eyes welled with tears. There was such a moving experience and just thinking about it, makes me feel so much.

This film really got to me, amazingly it melted away my cynicism and made me feel as hopeful as a kid does. The experience was so moving for me personally that for me this is an instant classic, and i understand the criticism, but i could really care less. There is a scene at the very end where Max returns home to his worried mother greets him with open arms, a welcoming embrace, just like the many hugs he is embraced with from the Wild Things. Like hugging this giant wall of shaggy fur, that cozy, comforting feeling that you're safe and that you're not alone. As these Wild Things talk about isolation and being lonely, you know it's Max reaching out for someone, anyone to understand and accept him. It's what all kids want, to be wanted and loved. It's a simple significance, but a significance nonetheless and it's beautifully stated in this film. Deeply moving, uncompromising, and very heartfelt Where The Wild Things Are is an incredible film that dares to be great and succeeds with or without your approval.

Autumn

2009-10-21T04:45:00.000-07:00

The leaves sweep across the landscape in front of me, reds, greens, yellows, oranges all flowing with the wind in a wondrous breeze. I look up at the blue sky, glorious and also burning my eyes, the trees have turned colors and daze me with their opulence. I'm driving back home and thinking of Autumn's past, of hands I've held, times I've shared and those I've spent them with. How the weather gets cold and bites your ears and nose, it's a sort of refreshing kind of discomfort that i find my comfort in. Hoodies are worn to keep warm and my memory comes back of a night that changed things for me forever. I think of her and how on that night the wind blew her hood down and her hair into her pale blue eyes, as she wiped them away she smiled and it's that smile that has never left my face, thinking of her on that night. I think of the favorable moments that I've had in my Autumn days in Washington, and it makes me long for those days again. Now I'm just left in this dead end town, nothing left but lone enjoyment of this glorious season, nothing left of these days, but my memories.

Grab A Stake And Find A Vampire

2009-10-15T18:59:00.000-07:00

Alright so it was a year ago that i first heard about the Twilight book series written by author Stephanie Meyer. All i really knew was that it was a series of books written about vampires, nothing more. I ignored it, and then a month later the movie version was released and i heard about the big box office number and ridiculous profits that the film was making. It raised an eyebrow, because very rarely are quality films bred from their novelized form. As a critic, as a appreciator of film and literature, i take it upon myself to form my opinion on what has substance, and what these films and novels really entail. But Twilight along with a plethora of other Vampire T.V. shows lack substance, lack genuine quality but that doesn't keep them from being financially successful. Of course the biggest demographic that is a fan of the Twilight series is teenagers, and as harsh as this is going to sound, teens don't know quality material, they don't know what a good film is. In a generation that doesn't read, or reads considerably less than past generations, how can you expect them to know what quality literature is?

But hey we've all liked terrible or not great things right? Then we grow out of it and see why we're wrong and sort of move on. I get why kids like this so much, why they just eat that shit up. But just because something is entertaining doesn't make it substantive, doesn't mean it has a greater or deeper importance to the piece of work. The books themselves are awfully written, very basically laid out on the paper as if a 15 year old girl wrote it. To be honest it's just some 30 year old fat Mormon chick behind it, who can't write, can't develop characters, and has no story plot. Oh Vampires, Werewolves, and falling in love, that sounds like something I've never heard of before, yea i can't remember when I've ever seen or heard or read anything like that. I get it kids, you want to feel special and be taken away from your boring everyday life, and have some dark, mysterious, and handsome guy to be the one to take you away from it all. But it's bullshit, it's fluff, it's a piece of cake with nothing but frosting.

The biggest thing that bothers me about this entire fad is that most of you actually believe these are good novels, that Twilight should have been nominated for an academy award. It's terrible, there is no sense of any plot development, no hint of subtlety, or any trace of creativity. You actually believe that there is quality and substance to two shallow teenagers who think their love is extraordinary? Of course you do, because most of you, are in fact teenagers and haven't' experienced anything different. Most of you have only had a few relationships in high school, if you can call them that. So you think this is story is special and really "speaks" to you and your kindred spirit somewhere out there. I can't convince you of something you haven't experienced, but I'm OK with that, because really it just shows how stupid teenagers are. It's not just how stupid teens are, it really speaks of most people in general. I think what this story is really about is very simple. It's about a girl wanting to have sex with a boy she thinks is attractive but can't because the boy is saving himself..or because he's a vampire. Wow how substantive and in depth story telling with subtlety and engrossing character development. Please, remove Stephanie Meyers dick from your mouths.

We're All Just Trying Not To Feel Lonely

2009-10-09T19:52:00.000-07:00

I started at Conagra this week, and it's been fine, I'm going to get an unreasonably large check for the lack of work that i did this week, but i was learning, so I'll somehow get over it. But i start on 3rd shift on Monday and it's going to be unpleasant, monotonous, arduous work. I don't mind, really for the amount of money I'm getting i really can't complain, and I'm happy to benefit from this entire process. I hoped that i could meet an individual like myself, but i should have known better. Not that there was anything wrong with anyone that was in my class, but they were your average blue collar workers, just very simple people. But there isn't anything with these individuals to which i could relate, most of them have families, wives, kids. It's fine because, that's most Americans and It let's me know sort of my place in all of it. There weren't any knocks on me, or my appearance, no ignorant statements, or close minded comments. So that was nice, maybe it shows that i believe certain types of people will act a certain way, but maybe they were the exception.

So i sort of thought about who we are as people, why we do the things we do, what drives us, and what this whole existence really is. I can't say I would socialize with any of these people outside of work, but i wouldn't scoff at their presence and ignore them if i saw them in a store. But I'm kind of a weird guy, i like alternative ways of living life, of social and cultural significance. Most people don't have the time or money to be able to explore and appreciate different and unique opinions, cultures, films, music, and art. So we as Americans are all different and hold different views and opinions. There isn't much else to say, it's easy to see why we can't all get along and see the world in the same view. Except that we're all human, really, that is a universal truth and shouldn't that matter more than everything else? The other universal thing i think most if not all humans identify with, is the fact that we don't want to be alone. Though most of us don't have that problem, i can't really say I'm one of them.

So this isn't a strong, persuasive piece of writing, more like a subtle nudge in what i believe is the right direction. We're all human, we all want to have people in our lives, and not feel alone, we all feel at least somewhat strongly about our emotions and we should always feel free to express them. But at what cost do we shove those feelings down other's throats and alienate ourselves from a potential friend or friends? There are more important things in this life, and we should all embrace them. I'm a young kid who's seen this, connected the dots and is willing to push aside his bias and reach out to someone that is unlike himself and say "hey, what's your name, how are you"? So if i can do it, can't we all? Yeah this makes me sound like a hippie, which would make me the farthest thing from original or dynamic, but isn't it important, crucial rather, to connect to one another with an open heart and mind to our neighbors, our community, and our fellow man? I guess I'll leave that up to you all to decide.

Enough is Enough: Stop getting your news from Glenn Beck

2009-10-03T20:41:00.000-07:00

Ever since President Barack Obama was sworn into office last January, there has been a sort of paranoia fed into the American people by those in power on the right. There have been a host of issues that the so called "American" people have been up in arms about. The economic stimulus, health care reform, the auto bailout, and all of the smaller stories have constantly been berated by politicians on the right as well as conservative commentators that are put in front of the American people by a network that is "fair and balanced". Said network is Fox News and I've been politically informed for about a year and a half now, i gave every network that i watched an unbiased viewpoint, and Fox News is blatantly biased toward the right. The news is supposed to report the news, give you all of the facts, and do nothing more. They aren't supposed to spin it, or give analysis on how this will bankrupt America, or if this country is taking away your constitutional rights. MSNBC doesn't do this, nor does CNN, yes MSNBC has political commentators that come on in the evening, but it doesn't come near the bias that comes with Fox News, and how they blatantly try(and quite successfully, i might add) to make people afraid.

The worst part of this partisan news network, are their conservative political commentators. They all have separate radio shows throughout the day, and as bad as their T.V. commentaries are, their radio programs are that much more extreme. Though currently the big name on the Fox News Network is self proclaimed libertarian and Mormon Glenn Beck. If you don't know this man yet, then you're lucky. Beck has told viewers for more than a year now, bold faced lies about President Barack Obama and the democratic party. He spews lies on a daily basis how you( the American people) are slowly losing control and the government will take over your lives if you don't stand up and smell the coffee. He uses dumbed down logic and reaches so far to connect Obama to being a Marxist and communist. But of course it has worked, as you've seen these tea parties and "concerned" Americans voicing their worries about this new "radical" regime. Glenn Beck is nothing more than a giant tool for the conservative right.

But, then you have these simple minded Americans who see a man who is non threatening, and who lets them justify their ignorant, racist, arrogant, intolerant thoughts and behavior. Glenn Beck's appeal is very easy to see, he speaks out against these things a lot of Americans don't understand, they don't read up on legislation or the President's real plan to change health care, they'd rather just take Glenn Beck's word for it. In this lies the problem, people don't want to educate themselves about these important issues, but they want to bitch about it anyway. So in turn they're just, wrong. Beck has gone as far as to say that Obama is a racist, socialist, communist, Marxist, illegal alien, and has hatred for America and white people/culture. Don't take my word for it America, go look it up. But the guy is a tool because i used to watch him when he had a show on headline news, he had moderately conservative views, i liked listening to him because he was a likable guy even if i didn't agree with his politics. Now he's just completely gone off the deep end, and how surprising is it(really it's not) that he's taken this dive while being on Fox News.

You really want the facts? Educate yourself, don't let some millionaire who has more money than you'll ever see in your life tell you how much America is dissolving. Glenn Beck, Sean Hannity, and Bill O'Reilly are not fair and balanced and they sure as shit don't give a fuck about you. I'm asking anyone that reads this or thinks that these conservatives are great Americans to wake up and smell the fucking coffee. You want the truth about health care and spending and if our economy can sustain this? Don't take my word for it, educate yourself, look it up yourself. You want to talk about Death Panels, how about a bold face lie by a bitter politician that lost the election. What about all of the government spending and can we sustain this as an economic option? Well as large as we are as a nation we aren't even in the top 10 when it comes to national deficits. What about a government take over with the so called "public option" with health care reform and that all of the republican party refuse to support? A big thing that everyone overlooks in this situation of health care reform, are the health care lobbyists. There are more health insurance lobbyists in Washington D.C. than all of the other lobbyists combined. You don't think they have a big influence on the big corporation, big business, republican party? A party that is filled with C.E.O.'s that would stand to lose money if health reform is passed through congress. When it comes to the public option the plan is simple, if you don't have insurance you can get it and afford to pay for it, for you and your family. If you like your current plan you can keep it and if you can't afford your current insurance there is always the public option. Republicans hate this because the corporations who they work for will lose profits because they can't jack up the prices on health insurance.

I am so tired and so sick of people not being able to use common sense with these issues, i mean obviously it's not rocket science, but come on people. I get your need to hate on a black president, not because he's black necessarily but because he's a different kind of president and you don't really know how to react to that. You doubt him because he's not a crusty old white guy, because really that's all we've had in our country's history. And to be completely honest he's probably the most liberal president that we've ever had, which in my opinion is really sad, because he's pretty conservative on the political spectrum. The thought that he's a socialist is ridiculous, and just isn't true. Even if he was a socialist he can't turn the country into a socialist nation, he needs the congress for that and our country as a whole is still pretty conservative. But you all should know that he's not able to do all of that, i mean it's basic government and civics. But i guess Bill Maher got it right when he said Americans are stupid, i mean can you really prove him wrong?

Using Capitalism To My Advantage

2009-09-28T17:50:00.000-07:00

About a month ago i applied to a job with Conagra Foods as a general laborer, as a chance to have a stable job to get my feet off the ground so to speak. The job pays $12.69 per hour and after a 2 month probationary period it gets bumped up to $16.69 per hour. All the things i could do with the money i make at this job seem pretty endless, considering i don't have bills. So i got a call this morning and it was the job i applied to, letting me know that i was being offered a job for employment. So i got the job i wanted, i was the best guy for the job, if you prefer that analogy that so closely resembles all things capitalistic. If you know me, you know I'm really not pro capitalism, so all this talk about money makes me feel a little sleazy. But it's not like i have anyone to share it with, all i have right now is myself, and i should just be happy that i have this opportunity to do some good.

I don't know how this will all work out, i don't exactly have the greatest track record with jobs, especially with manual labor ones at that. I'd like to think I'll be able to hold this job at least a year, make plenty of money, get a new car, pay for school and really give myself a great head start. But i don't know how it'll work out, the job itself might be just awful, maybe my boss will be belligerent and hate me. There's all these doubts that could or could not be absolutely ridiculous, and I'll just have to see. But I'm looking to really take advantage of this situation, it can be such a great opportunity for me to do something with my life, and as sad as it is that money seems to run everything and without it you can't do much, I'm making it work for me.

Yeah it makes me feel a little hypocritical wanting a job just for monetary reasons, but right now, at this point in my life don't i really have to be? Without it, i can't do much, i can't go to school, or replace my badly beaten up car, or make plans to do the things i want to do in the next few years. As long as I'm not greedy with it, i guess i don't really see a problem, after all I'm getting to the point where i need to take care of myself. I am a pure socialist when it comes to my political beliefs and people really don't need hundreds of thousands of dollars to live off of, just to accumulate that money. But i don't think that's what I'm doing here, I'm simply making a life for myself here, and I'm really looking forward to that.

Gossip Girl is the worst show on Television

2009-09-23T07:26:00.000-07:00

So over the past few years, i've gotten more and more into having favorite T.V. shows, and really enjoying good television. Shows such as Dexter, Boston Legal, Weeds, Californication, Six Feet Under, Carnivale, Curb Your Enthusiasm, and the West Wing. These shows all show creative writing, great acting, and indepth storytelling. But then there are shows like "Gossip Girl" who's storyline is pretty simple, a bunch of financially elite teenagers go to a very exclusive high school in New York, wow that's really deep. Ok, i mean i get it oh pretty young people and the shallowness that they exude is attractive to most people. But i mean really America? All you want to see is beautiful people sleeping around, doing drugs, having no depth while doing so, and showing how shallow the average American teenager is.

I mean it's the same reason i pick on the Twilight series so much, it lacks substance and quality, it's just terribly written. Oh and the fact that so many people like it, many of them ignorant, shallow, and vapid teenagers, don't ever tell me that ignorance doesn't breed ignorance. This is coming from people who haven't lived life, and see this as some sort of glamourous escape from the mundane. I mean i get your need to want to be the next Lindsay or Paris but really just do your fucking homework and shut the fuck up. You're not beautiful, you're not special, you're empty and you exude nothing but vanity. I am so tired of teenagers not having any substance or sustainable personality traits, and as much as i hate to sound like a concerned parent about what is on T.V., shows like Gossip Girl feed that selfish, vain behavior.

I swear to god if i get a comment about how "I just don't get it" i'm going to fucking scream. Of course i get it, it's a bunch of rich kids being bored at school who screw around, cheat on eachother, party, get fucked up, and you see it as "the life". You're an idiot, grow up Peter Pan, Cinderella. Wow i can't believe how stupid and empty people are, then i see these people at the town halls on health care, and it comes back to me. Yes i get it, it's just i know what it is, and it's terrible. There isn't any quality, or genuine acting, writing, or anything else, i mean the show is just terrible. But it continues to get ratings because that's what a lot of people want to see, and how sorry do i feel for you.

untitled

2009-09-16T21:22:00.000-07:00

I've fallen through these cracks of inconsistencies and something escapes me and for some reason i do not wish to find it. Through all of these misfortunes and missteps i have found the imperfect salvation of genuinely, openly, living a life. I find the words of others to crumble away and become nothing more than shallow channels of putrid lies. I search for the right things to say and ultimately all that comes out is the fleeting feeling of loss. I can't seem to stop questioning all of these decisions and why they must weigh so much on my mind. But really the most important one is that of selfishness or selflessness. Do i really wish her to be happy or is that just myself wanting to appeal to the better nature of the thought of who i wish to be. Or is it more that i want her all for myself, to love her, to make her mine, and throwing caution to the winds and leaving everyone else behind. I try to find the answers within, but only come up with more questions. She's gone now, and I'm just left here wondering the answers to these questions i cannot hope to find.

No I Don't Want Any Of Your Bullshit

2009-09-15T21:07:00.000-07:00

There comes a time in every one's lives where you realize that some of the things you have come to understand, like, and cherish have been things of little or no substance. I came to this conclusion when first starting to argue why my football team is better than the team they are playing, at age 7. So argument seems to be solely based on persuasion, perception, opinion, and perspective. All of this comes down to being able to judge all of these things that we experience and in that judgement it molds us into the people that we are. So all of this is built up over our developmental years and seemingly learned behavior and attitudes. But then there is a moment, a time where we decide to question these things we've been taught, these ideas that have been put in our heads. It's only a question of what is right by questioning what makes sense, in an open minded, clear perspective. OK so all of that is sort of convoluted and confusing but it's important, though i have been told that i over think things.

It's not hard to understand why i dislike most people, and the things they like. America's obsession with money and possessions, big explosions and a lack of general understanding with other's struggles. It's hard fighting against a couple hundred million people and the bullshit they sling as the truth. A complete lack of giving a shit about anyone other than yourself, and it really shows in almost every facet of our society. Look at film, music, politics, and our economy, it's all the same message. Profit, money, a total lack of substance equals a dumbed down, unintelligent, and uneducated society. I don't know if I'll ever get less angry about the state of affairs in our society in this country. I don't know what this is, how people can be so blind to what is right in front of them. It seems hopeless at times, actually most times, so all you can do i suppose is know that you're right and try and educate those who don't.

With All Of My Understanding

2009-09-12T22:01:00.000-07:00

I'm growing sleepy as my hands reach and extend across my keyboard, reaching for the texture that can only be described as clicky-clacky, i know that's not a word. I'm watching Scarlett Johannson sing karaoke in a pink wig, reminding me of a friend. I'm thinking of how we're all so self conscious, and always debate each known decision. There are no boundaries except those that we create and set for ourselves. I miss my friends a lot, and sometimes i feel so empty it's hard to go on breathing. I hate my job, and i keep trying to find a better one, but no one really wants to give me a chance, in a job where i could actually live off of. I think of a future where i can't find a better paying job, to pay for school, and i see not going to school, which in all reality can't be an option for me. I don't want a life where i don't have a future in some kind of profession, i just don't want that to be my life. As human beings i think we all want the same things, security, to be loved, to be able to go out and enjoy being alive doing the things we love to do.

I'm not sure of what exactly drives me, i have this awful tendency to always want to be somewhere that i am not currently. Even when it comes to places that I've lived at for extended periods of time, i just never learn. So, it made sense to me, go to school and get a degree in a field where i can live off of it. I have friends, but no one that i absolutely need in my life, and if my friends actually read any of this, I'm sure they would be hurt by that. I've always been a pretty self reliant kind of guy, so that's not a surprise to me. But who are these great people you're supposed to meet? Where do you go, and where do they exist so that you can meet them and strike up great conversations, and forge lasting relationships?

There are no easy answers and the biggest part about being an adult is you making a real decision that affects your life directly, and living with that decision. It would make things so much easier if there was a road map, or directions to the destination that you desired. I am so tired of people that i wonder if it's worth trying. I feel so detached from the rest of this society that I'm apart of, so despondent, so apathetic and nihilistic. But I'm really not, I'm a passionate guy about life and all the interests that i love. I've experienced quite a bit and I've learned a lot on the way, and i know that i don't need nor want many people in my life. I want a girlfriend, a few good friends and my family, really that's it. Someone who understands who i am, and accepts me for that. Friends that listen, understand, have the same interests. Nothing spectacular, just certain people that i actually like.

But this rambling has gone on long enough, it's really just me talking out loud on paper, these aren't organized thoughts. That's OK, no one will read this and none of it matters, it exists because i know of it, if for no other reason. I've got those few friends already, they are spread out pretty well. Most believe as i do, some disagree with a few things that i believe in or my lack of belief rather. But all of my friends aren't around me, i haven't seen them in a few months, and it's pretty lame. So I'm going down this road of what's best for me, and while that may sound selfish, what else do i have? I've got myself, and really nothing else, so I'm going to take care of what i need to, to be happy down the road. I don't know what will happen, but I'm going to do whatever i can to be successful in my life, being content is so underrated, but it can be a really wonderful thing.

2009 NFL Season Overview and Playoff/Superbowl Predictions

2009-09-07T22:01:00.000-07:00

Division Winners:

AFC

1. New England 12-4

2. Tennessee 12-4

3. Cincinnati 11-5

4. San Diego 10-6

NFC

1. New York 12-4

2. Green Bay 11-5

3. New Orleans 11-5

4. Seattle 10-6

Wild Cards:

AFC

5. Baltimore 11-5

6. Indianapolis 10-6

NFC

5. Chicago 10-6

6. Dallas 10-6

Wild Card Round:

AFC

Indianapolis @ Cincinnati

Bengals 38 Colts 34

Baltimore @ San Diego

Chargers 20 Ravens 16

NFC

Dallas @ New Orleans

Saints 40 Cowboys 27

Chicago @ Seattle

Bears 24 Seahawks 23

Divisional Round:

AFC

San Diego @ New England

Patriots 33 Chargers 24

Cincinnati @ Tennessee

Titans 31 Bengals 20

NFC

Chicago @ New York

Giants 27 Bears 24

New Orleans @ Green Bay

Packers 44 Saints 41

Conference Championship:

AFC

Tennessee @ New England

Titans 30 Patriots 27

NFC

Green Bay @ New York

Packers 31 Giants 24

Superbowl 44

Green Bay vs. Tennessee

Titans 34 Packers 24

2009 NFL Preview AFC South

2009-09-07T21:01:00.000-07:00

AFC South

Yes, I saved the best for last, at least that's my opinion of it anyway. The AFC South has slowly but surely turned into one of the best divisions in football, mostly through smash mouth football. Great defense and running the football effectively by smashing your opponent square in the mouth. OK, OK i know it sounds like I'm describing the AFC North, but Pittsburgh looks more like a passing team, as does Cleveland and so does Cincinnati. But anyway, two of the teams in the south the Titans and Jaguars rely on their running attack and front seven to handle business for them. While the Colts and Texans seem to rely on their finesse passing attacks and the occasional defensive stop. Who's to say what is the right way to play football and not? It's easily in my mind the most competitive division, and the most even one.

Tennessee Titans

Last year the Titans were in my mind, the best team in the NFL, they posted the best record, got off to the best start at 10-0 and secured home field throughout the playoffs with a number one seed in the AFC conference. But then, they ran into Baltimore and with a few bad calls by the refs and some untimely and very costly turnovers the Titans were in familiar territory, heading home early from the second round of the playoffs. But all is not lost, the Titans retained 20 of it's 22 starters, and one of those lost was the woeful Justin McCariens who seemed to drop more balls than he caught. But let's not beat around the bush, the Titans lost a big asset in Albert Haynesworth. Yes they can't replace him, yes there is no one to duplicate his performance from a year ago, yes he was very disruptive in the middle. But I believe the Titans will be just as good on defense this year, they have the deepest rotation in their defensive line in football, only possibly behind the Giants. Their backups could be starters on any team in the NFL, and the Titans have one hell of a defensive line coach with Jim Washburn. So yes, it's impossible to replace Haynesworth, but the Titans won't be any worse than last year, they'll continue to get after the quarterback, drop backs for losses in the backfield and intercept as many passes if not more. They have one of the best if not the best secondaries, in the entire NFL. With Cortland Finnegan, Nick Harper, Michael Griffin, and Chris Hope, this group should match it's 20 interceptions it nabbed last year, but i wouldn't be surprised if it exceed that number. The line backing corps is a very underrated group. Stephen Tulloch, Keith Bulluck, and David Thorton do a great job of run support and dropping back into pass coverage, though they might be asked to blitz more this season, it remains to be seen if that will be the case. The offense as scary as it sounds will be better than they were last season, with an improved passing attack, and Chris Johnson coming into his second year as starting running back, with Lendale White as his reliable and capable backup. This is the best backfield in football, and could very well top over 2,000 yards and 30 touchdowns this season. The offensive line, which is why the Titans run the ball so well, is in my mind the best in the league. Kerry Collins returns as the reliable, wiley, veteran who looks to have a better year, after only tossing 12 touchdowns a year ago. He's got the arm, the ability, to do so, but if it's not broke then don't fix it, with a running game as potent as the one the Titans have, there isn't any reason for Collins to throw more than 25 times a game at times. Maybe with more opponents knowing what they're getting in Johnson and White this year, it'll give Collins the opportunity to open it up in the passing game with newly acquired receivers Nate Washington and Kenny Britt. Both are an upgrade to a receiving corps that sorely lacked dynamic play makers. Justin Gage is a reliable target at receiver that has a great rapport with Collins. A surprise to look for in the upcoming season is rookie tight end Jared Cook, he could be a star in the making, something of an Antonio Gates. The Titans went 13-3 last year, and honestly have the talent and ability to do that again. But the schedule is a lot tougher, and they'll be tested, so we'll get to see how good these Titans really are.

Indianapolis Colts

No matter what happens to the Colts it seems that Peyton Manning will always be there. I know that's not the reality but it just seems like they'll always be a contender because they have a top 2 quarterback. Gone is Marvin Harrison, but poised is Anthony Gonzalez to take his place as the number 2 receiver next to Reggie Wayne. They still have somewhat of a solid offensive line, though the left side is questionable in it's ability to protect Manning, as we've seen in the pre-season. That is going to be a question mark as the season progresses, and hopefully for the Colts isn't a big concern. The Colts were 31st last season running the ball, they hope to improve on that with a healthy Joseph Addai and rookie first round pick Donald Brown. The 1-2 punch of Addai and Brown should boost a woeful rushing attack. But we'll see if they can get back to having a balanced attack, last year they couldn't run on anyone. The defense is always a question, and this year it's the defensive line, their ends are top notch, the best in the conference. Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis are two of the best defensive ends in football and they happen to be on the same team. They're the only reason the Colts get pressure on the quarterback, and they certainly earn their paychecks. The middle is where the concern lies with Fili Moala the rookie from USC and veteran Ed Johnson. Their linebackers are very inconsistent, and can't be relied on to be sure tackling play makers. Their secondary is pretty think even though the team like Kelvin Hayden, he's a pretty mediocre talent. Bob Sanders at one point was a great play making safety, but injuries have slowed him down and i question whether he still has it or not. The Colts lost their head coach in the off season, and new coach Jim Caldwell has come in and says he's not changing much. But i can't believe that the Colts won't miss Dungy at all, and his loss will hurt this team in the win-loss column.

Houston Texans

There are big, nay, huge expectations for the Houston Texans this season, with a healthy Matt Schaub, a young dynamic back in Steve Slaton and one of the best receivers in the NFL, Andre Johnson, the Texans are poised to make a strong playoff run. Offensively the team is no different than last year, though once again Matt Schaub missed four games, four games that could have made the difference between playoffs and going home at the end of the year. Steve Slaton was very impressive last year and should improve on his 2008 numbers, Andre Johnson led the league in receiving yards. This offense is talented there is no doubt about it, but a big problem last year was the defense. They added defensive tackle Antonio Smith, and linebacker out of USC Brian Cushing, they already have a very good pass rusher with Mario Williams and see a lot of potential upside in Amobi Okoye the defensive tackle out of Louisville but he's been inconsistent in the three years he's been here. Rookie Connor Barwin could add a lot to the defensive line that has been lacking another pass rusher on the side opposite of Williams. With all of these changes, it takes some time to meld together, and sync the players in the defensive scheme. But there is no doubt of the potential of the Houston Texans taking off this season and in the future, if, and it's a big if at this point if everyone especially Matt Schaub stay healthy. That's the big thing with Houston, and being competitive with every team they play not just the ones that they think are good teams. The team needs to develop a certain maturity that i haven't seen quite yet. It'll be interesting to see what Houston can do this season, especially if the defense lives up to expectations and everyone can stay healthy.

Jacksonville Jaguars

There were a lot of things that went wrong last year for the Jaguars. Inconsistent play from David Garrard, 3/5th's of the offensive line went on injured reserve in week one, they couldn't block for Maurice Jones Drew their featured back this season, it was just a mess. But even among all these disastrous things, the Jaguars are actually hopeful. They signed Torry Holt, and picked up Mike Thomas from Arizona who should be a nice addition to the slot. They let Fred Taylor go, to make Jones-Drew their feature back, a role he has never been in his entire football playing career. The added veteran Tra Thomas, rookie left tackle Eben Britton as well as Eugene Monroe to shore up their woeful offensive line. These are all good things for a team that looked like it was going to contend for a Superbowl tittle last year. But they are starting Derick Cox, a rookie at the right corner spot, and that has to be some cause for concern. They let their best defensive player, linebacker Mike Peterson go to Atlanta, and they still don't know how David Garrard is going to hold up throughout the season. The Jaguars wouldn't surprise me if they got back to their glory days, but i just don't see it happening in a division where everyone's getting their..you know what together, and i can't honestly say i can see that happening with Jacksonville. They have some really nice talent, sure, but they just make me feel like they can't put it all together, like their lost in the woods with a map in their hands.

AFC South Projected Standings

Tennessee 12-4

Indianapolis 10-6

Houston 9-7

Jacksonville 8-8

2009 NFL Preview NFC South

2009-09-07T20:18:00.001-07:00

NFC South

Outside of my favorite team's division, i think the NFC South is the most intriguing division year in and year out. For the past 3 seasons, each team that finished last in the division, the very next year that team has won the division. It's got electrifying players, and to be honest a real lack of defense, so it's always fun to see a lot of points being scored and yards being gained on an average of 20 yards per play. It's the most unpredictable division in football, and as i am writing this now i don't even know who I'm going to pick to win it, it'll be the most fun to watch yet again this season.

Atlanta Falcons

If the Carolina Panthers would have lost to the Saints in the last game of the regular season a year ago, which ended in a last second field goal by kicker John Kasey, the Atlanta Falcons would have won their division. A team that had finished last in their division a year before last at 3-13, finished with an 11-5 record and pushed Carolina for a division tittle. Doing all of this with a rookie quarterback, their first round draft pick Matt Ryan out of Boston College. Though a lot of credit has to be given to Michael Turner who rushed for over 1,600 yards. But it was easy enough to see how impressive and mature Ryan was for the Falcons last year, and they've built a very nice offense around the young quarterback. Roddy White the Falcons number one receiver was signed to a long term deal in the off season, they also traded for future hall of fame tight end Tony Gonzalez and that will make Ryan even more effective behind center. The running game could be labeled as one of the best in the NFC right behind Adrian Peterson and the Minnesota Vikings. The defense didn't add too much in the off season, and I'm afraid might be the weakness of the team. They did a great job for what they had last year, which to be honest wasn't too much, i think they overachieved a great deal. I worry about that with Atlanta if the defense can duplicate their performance from a year ago. The Falcons have a great young team and i think they'll play well again this season, i just don't know if their defense will be enough to get them back to the playoffs.

New Orleans Saints

Drew Brees hands down is one of the most exciting, fun to watch, great, play making quarterbacks in the entire league. He makes his receivers better, he made a name for receiver Lance Moore(10 touchdowns last year), and involved back Pierre Thomas to the point where he's going to be the number one back ahead of Reggie Bush. Brees passed for over 5,000 yards last year, the only quarterback to do that since Dan Marino in 1984. Pierre Thomas the starting back can run inside, outside, catch the ball, go deep, return punts, return kickoffs, really do it all from a play making stand point. He'll have a breakout year this year, for sure. The defense will only get better with new defensive coordinator Greg Williams, along with adding free safety Darren Sharper. The Saints look great this year, they look like a million bucks, the look like they could challenge the 2007 Patriots for best offense of the decade. Brees by himself with below average receivers can score 30 points in the first half against a solid defense. He has plenty of very good targets to go to, and a dynamic duo of backs to get the ball to as well. This team could challenge for best in the NFC. But they were just as good offensively last season. The real question is, will Greg Williams defense step up and create more turnovers and be a difference making squad? Or will it be more of the same for the championship-less Saints?

Carolina Panthers

Carolina looked absolutely unstoppable last season, an amazing rushing attack, a burner at receiver and a veteran quarterback making all the right reads and leading his team to 12 victories. But it all fell apart in the NFC Divisional playoff game against Arizona, Larry Fitzgerald tore their secondary apart almost single handily and the Panther fans had to watch in disgust as they were blown out. They had to watch as their quarterback threw 5 interceptions and lost a fumble. A lot of whispers and rumors swirled around in the off season if the Panthers would shop for a new quarterback. Instead they decided to stick with their guy, stand behind their bewildered veteran. So Jake Delhomme returns to an offense that boasts a great running duo with Deangelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart, both rushing for over 1,000 yards last season. Steve Smith, one of the most exciting players in the division is still splitting out wide for the Panthers, and him still being there means the Panthers are still a contender. The defense has really grown the past few seasons with Jon Beason at linebacker and the disgruntled Julius Peppers returning to his defensive end spot. When motivated Peppers is the best defensive end in the league, besides his obvious pass rushing skills, Peppers can drop into coverage and has soft hands to take a pass back to the house. The Panthers have a lot of unanswered questions, they have all the necessary talent to win it all, but it wouldn't surprise me if the team reels all season from the way the last one ended.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

There is a lot of excitement in Tampa, they have a new head coach, Raheem Morris who is the youngest in NFL history, and a new starting quarterback, Byron Leftwich who hasn't been a team's starter since 2005. Gone are franchise staples Derrick Brooks and Warrick Dunn, but they've gotten younger and more athletic at the linebacker and running back position respectively. Coming over from the Giants is running back Derrick Ward, who rushed for over 1,100 yards last season and should give the Bucs backfield a big boost. Recovering from multiple knee surgeries, Cadillac Williams looks to be a big contributor at running back as well. Michael Clayton has never gained back the performance of his rookie season, but a new contract should motivate him to get back there. Antonio Bryant broke out for Tampa Bay last year and should be a favorite target for Leftwich. The defense is a bit puzzling right now, sort of searching for it's identity. But it could be one of the best in the division if it molds under it's new coach's direction. Ronde Barber is still there, it seems like he's been a Buccaneer for almost 20 years, but it's been shorter than that. This will be a rebuilding year for Tampa Bay that's for sure, but maybe they can surprise some people when it's all said and done.

Projected NFC South Standings

New Orleans 11-5

Atlanta 9-7

Carolina 8-8

Tampa Bay 6-10

2009 NFL Preview AFC East

2009-09-07T10:07:00.000-07:00

AFC East

New coaches, new players, and an elite quarterback coming back under center after major knee surgery. Those are just some of the story lines in the AFC East for the upcoming 2009 NFL season. The Patriots perennial division winners, did not last year and it was a crime that they didn't make it into the playoffs at 11-5. The Miami Dolphins really turned it around with a division tittle, and their first playoff appearance since 2000. The Jets seem to be starting over with a rookie quarterback and rookie coach. The Bills are the wild card with a bunch of talent but almost no idea where that will get them or how they'll use it.

New England Patriots

Tom Brady is back from injury, last season in the opener against Kansas City he ran his leg into their safety and suffered a torn ACL. Brady has looked sharp in the preseason but who knows what that means. He's got one of the best wide receivers in the league in Randy Moss, the best slot receiver with Wes Welker, and a veteran free agent in the form of Joey Galloway. Yea, it's safe to say the passing attack will be an elite one, once again. We shouldn't expect another historic 50 touchdown season from Brady, but he should throw for around 30. The running game in New England seems to always work better by Committee. Kevin Faulk, Laurence Maroney, and former Jaguar Fred Taylor fill out the backfield. They're all capable of big plays, pass catching, and solid blocking, all things coach Belichick needs out of his backs. The offensive line is stout and formidable, and should give Brady all the time he needs. The defense is without Teddy Bruschi and just recently Richard Seymour. That leaves holes on a team that had trouble getting to the quarterback last year. Though Belichick has always been a great improviser and student of the defensive game. The unit should be solid, especially with the offense the Patriots have but they might run into some trouble against team like Pittsburgh and Tennessee. Things should be good for New England this season, they are a big favorite to get back to the Superbowl and bring a 4th championship to Foxborough. That could very well be, considering how good of a team they could be this year.

Miami Dolphins

The Miami Dolphins along with the Atlanta Falcons were the surprise darlings of the NFL last year going from a 1-15 record to a 11-5 record. Chad Pennington, the comeback player of the year last year led the team with a short to intermediate passing attack. Receivers Tedd Ginn J.R. and Greg Caramillo helped greatly with their speed and route running ability. Ginn also a return man, frequently set the Dolphins up with great field position. Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams share the load in the backfield, running variations of the wild cat formation and confusing defenses with misdirection and speed. The question for this season is whether defenses will smart up to the hybrid formation or not. Brown and Williams even in normal formations are still effective running the ball and should be again this season. The defense is led by linebacker Joey Porter who recorded 17 and a half sacks last year. With much of the focus being on Porter, that should free up Jason Taylor and Channing Crowder to make even more plays than they have in the past. They signed safety Gibril Wilson to help their pass defense, and he should do a nice job for them this season. When looking at Miami's schedule it's really hard envisioning a good season for them. But this team really plays like one, and it wouldn't shock me in the slightest to see them on the field come mid January.

New York Jets

The Jets, New York's other football team seems to be in rebuilding mode, even if their fans think they can contend this year. They drafted quarterback Mark Sanchez to be the future, and apparently the present as first year head coach Rex Ryan named him the starter. Sanchez has been very impressive in pre-season, completing long passes to his receivers, sustaining long drives, and coming back from adversity. But that is the preseason, and i don't know how well Sanchez is going to do out there on Sundays. Don't get me wrong, I'd love for the guy to succeed, but he is a rookie, and we all know how rookies do in their first years(Ryan and Flacco are exceptions to the rule). Thomas Jones and Leon Washington share time in the backfield running the ball, and both are very solid in the passing game. Washington is also the Jets kick and punt returner, and one of the best in the league at that position. It's at receiver that the Jets should be concerned, they let Laverneus Coles walk in the off season, now they are left with Jerricho Cotchery and 2nd year receiver David Clowney. It might be the most underwhelming receiving corps in the entire NFL, and that's not great news for a rookie quarterback. But a nice bright spot is tight end Dustin Keller, and he should be a nice safety blanket. The defense is possibly a very big upside to this team. Bart Scott, Jim Leonard, Lito Sheppard, and Marques Douglas are all added to an already solid defensive squad. David Harris is a rising star at line backer, and Vernon Gholston could have upside in Ryan's revamped defense. This could really be a scary group if they can mold together and play up to their potential. The Jets will win enough games this year because their defense will keep them in most games, the reliable run game will score points, and Sanchez will make the stellar play from time to time. But they'll run into a wall against the better teams and might have a late season collapse, especially with their rookie quarterback.

Buffalo Bills

Trent Edwards has a lot to prove this year, he's finally got another play making wide receiver in the form of Terrel Owens, a healthy running game with Marshawn Lynch and Fred Jackson, and an improved defensive unit. Now all he has to do is put it all together, go out there on Sundays and perform. Lee Evans is an underrated receiver and he hasn't been able to show off his true potential for the fact that most teams double the guy. Now they won't be able to do it with future hall of famer Terrel Owens on the field. Along with a healthy dose of Lynch, the Bills should have one of the better offenses in the league. It's a good thing too with the division they are in. The defense will be better this season having Paul Posluszny anchor the middle of the field, Leodis Mckelvin in the secondary, and rookie pass rusher Aaron Maybin on the line, this team is very ready to compete. But that' just it, you could make the case that the atmosphere in Buffalo is that of a losing team. I don't know if the team can turn it around, they have enough talent, and coaching and front office support, but will they is the most crucial and important question. I think we'll see some flashes this year, but we might have to wait another year before it comes to complete fruition.

Projected AFC East Standings

New England 12-4

Miami 9-7

New York 8-8

Buffalo 7-9

2009 NFL Preview NFC East

2009-09-06T21:41:00.000-07:00

NFC East

It's named "best division in the NFL" by all of the pundits, it seems every year, but the NFC East i think is a little too hyped up. The Giants are looking for another division tittle after last year's embarrassing exit from the playoffs. The Eagles who made it to the NFC championship game last year are looking to make a Superbowl run. The self proclaimed "America's team" the Dallas Cowboys are looking to rebound from a disappointing season, and the Redskins made a lot of off season moves defensively to try and match it's divisional opponents. It should be an interesting year in the NFC East, though it seems to me a lot of hype from it's fans, doesn't ever really show up on the field.

New York Giants

The Superbowl winners from two years ago, the Giants are looking to get back to being the best in football after adding even more depth to their defensive rotation. Adding defensive end Chris Canty, defensive tackle Rocky Bernard, and linebacker Michael Boley, the Giants are even more scary on defense than last years team. With a healthy Osi Umenyora coming back to what might be the deepest and most talented defensive line, this squad could win games on it's own this year. On the offensive side of the ball Eli Manning must find a way to move on with the loss of Plaxico Burress his favorite and best receiver. He has reliable Kevin Boss at tight end, a mix of average wide receivers and a miniature truck in running back Brandon Jacobs. Jacobs doesn't so much run through the holes and past the defense as much as he runs through everything in his path, including susceptible defenders. The 6 ft 5 inch bruising back, is the most physical, tough, workhorse of a back that I've seen in quite sometime, and it's because of this that it doesn't matter if the passing game isn't great. A lot of the critics have said the Giants downfall is that they don't have a number one receiver for Eli Manning to throw the ball to and this will come back to haunt the Giants. All the critics love saying how much you need a prolific passing attack to be a top contending team, well I'm so sorry to disappoint, but no you don't. The Giants went 12-4 last year, and it was done most of the way with a heavy dose of running and great defense. This team is a top 2 team in the conference, and maybe the NFL. It's physical, mean, and will push most teams around the field for 60 minutes. The Giants aren't sexy or exciting, but they get the job done, and really who cares if you win all the time?

Philadelphia Eagles

So much had been made over the past month of the Eagles signing of Michael Vick and what that means for the team, and more importantly, quarterback Donovan Mcnabb. Mcnabb has been the Eagles starting quarterback since the 2000 season and has led them to 5 NFC Championship games and a Superbowl 39 appearance. Now all of a sudden, there is controversy in the air because they sign a pretty well known athlete who just got done serving an 18 month jail sentence for dog fighting charges. Distractions are not good, especially when playing in one of the better divisions in football. This seems like it could really turn into a mess, no matter what a player can do on the field, if he distracts the team in any way, it could really be a disaster. But good news for the Eagles, they added a boat load of talent in the off season. Wide receiver Jeremy Maclin and running back Lesean Mccoy, their first two rookie draft picks look to contribute right away. Along with play making back Brian Westbrook, and last years rookie surprise at receiver Desean Jackson the Eagles could have one of the top offenses in the league. But even talent needs time to mold together and become a cohesive working machine, and with the Michael Vick saga going on i don't know that it has, and that's trouble going into the regular season. On defense they added corner back Ellis Hobbs to play across the field from Asante Samuel, though they let franchise cornerstone free safety Brian Dawkins walk out. The defense will be solid, but not dominating, and the offense will have to score more than 20 points to win every week. Now don't get me wrong, this offense is plenty capable, and many pundits have them winning the NFC East. But i just don't know that it'll fit together for a franchise that has been trying to win a tittle for the past 10 years. It really seems like the Eagles are placing all their eggs in one basket for this season, no pun intended.

Dallas Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys have been one of the most talented offensive teams in the past ten years. Franchise quarterback in Tony Romo, dynamic play making receivers, quick and agile backs and a perennial pro bowl tight end. But Terrel Owens is gone, he was a headache anyway, now Roy Williams takes his place as the team's number one guy at receiver. The backs are still in place with Marion Barber and Felix Jones. Both have huge potential and if reached, the Cowboys could be great again. Patrick Crayton, Miles Austin, and Sam Hurd fill out the rest of the Cowboys very dangerous corps of receivers. Jason Witten could very well be the best tight end in football with his big body, soft hands, and precise route running ability. Tony Romo, despite what people say, is one of the best quarterbacks in football today. With all of this talent the Cowboys should be up there as one of the best teams. But they aren't, maybe it's lack of discipline, or urgency, or both, but the Cowboys need to wake up and seize this opportunity. This team is too talented not to be better than they have been. The defense is led by Demarcus Ware who had a career year last year with 20 sacks. Keith Brooking comes over from Atlanta to anchor the middle with Bradie James. The secondary is very average but on occasion can make the good play, this is Dallas's weak point on the team. This team should contend for an NFC East tittle, just two years ago they posted a 13-3 mark, and were the favorites to meet New England in the Superbowl. To become great again the Cowboys have to get it done in their division. Maybe this will be the year the Cowboys wake up and put it together.

Washington Redskins

The Redskins made huge waves in the off season with the signing of big Albert Haynesworth, who's coming over from the Tennessee Titans. Haynesworth is a huge disruptive force in the middle of the line and is almost always doubled, sometimes even triple teamed. That gives other players the opportunity to get free and make plays. Which is huge for linebacker London Fletcher who led the team last year in tackles. He should benefit the most out of anyone else on the line. Though it can be said of Haynesworth that he only plays hard in contract years, he has been known to take plays off, it'll be interesting to see whether he plays with the same intensity as he did last year, which was a contract year. Washington resigned corner back Deangelo Hall to a big extension and he should really shore up that secondary. But really the Redskins success this year comes down to it's quarterback, Jason Campbell. Campbell got his feathers ruffled when he heard management went after Jay Cutler in the off season, but after that didn't work out they committed that he was their guy. So if Campbell can be consistent and make good decisions, especially late in games, the Redskins could really be good this year. Clinton Portis is a sure thing for 1,000 yards and at least 7 touchdowns. Chris Cooley the tight end is one of the most underrated players at his position. Burners Santana Moss and Antwan Randle El give Campbell dynamic targets to get the ball to. Really every team in the division could win it, it's all about keeping focus on that goal, and finishing strong. Washington is good enough, talented enough, it really comes down to whether they play as a team, because if they do, i think they have a shot.

Projected NFC East Standings

New York 12-4

Dallas 10-6

Washington 9-7

Philadelphia 8-8

2009 NFL Preview AFC North

2009-09-04T19:24:00.000-07:00

AFC North

The AFC North is the most unchanged division for 2009, as Pittsburgh, Baltimore, Cleveland, and Cincinnati are returning more starters than any other division in the NFL.The Steelers won the Superbowl last season, defeating the Cardinals with a last minute touchdown drive. Baltimore had a great comeback season with then rookie coach Jim Mora and rookie quarterback Joe Flacco. But it was the strong running game and dominating defense that led the way for the Ravens. Much was the same for the Bengals and Browns as both teams struggled with injuries and inconsistent play. But Carson Palmer is coming back healthy, as are many defensive starters for the Bengals. The Browns have a new coach with Eric Mangini coming in and look to turn things around in 2009.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Ben Roethlisberger shut every one up in the closing moments of Superbowl 43 as he led a game winning drive out of his own end zone with 2 minutes and change remaining. The knock on Roethlisberger was that he didn't have the "it" factor to put his team on his back and led his team down the field when it mattered. As he hit Santonio Holmes in the right corner of the end zone for the game winning touchdown, it was something of heroic proportions. It was a great season for sure last year, the number one defense in the league, coming from behind to beat some of the best teams in the NFL, and beating their hated division rival Baltimore Ravens three times. Though there were some serious issues, Roethlisberger was sacked 46 times and the running game never really got on track with injuries to Willie Parker and Rashard Mendenhall. For a Superbowl winning team, these are serious problems and it's safe to say that their offensive line didn't get any better in the off season. Now for a big guy Roethlisberger is very mobile and can escape pressure. But a Superbowl winning team giving up 46 sacks? That is just way too much, and if the running game is ineffective again, the Steelers could really be in trouble. But all hypotheticals aside, Pittsburgh is one of the best teams in the league, they are consistent and play hard nosed, disciplined, and well executed football. Their defense is the best in the league, mixing zone blitzes and dropping their backers into coverage. James Harrison the defensive player of the year inked an extension in the off season and leads the number one rated defense in the league into a season where they believe they can have a repeat performance of last year. But it's always harder to repeat for Superbowl champions because everyone is gunning for you, and Pittsburgh does not have an easy schedule. Pittsburgh will be one of the best again, but will their holes became more apparent as they play some of the better teams later this year, it has to.

Baltimore Ravens

Joe Flacco had a tremendous first season in the NFL, critics will say it's because of the heavy load the team put on running backs Le'Ron Mcclain, Willis Mcgahee, and Ray Rice, as well as having a veteran target with receiver Derrick Mason. But anyone that knows football saw a cool and composed young athlete who put together one of the best rookie seasons for a quarterback of all time. The only notable addition to the offense is tight end L.J. Smith from Philadelphia and teaming with verteran Todd Heap should help Flacco when in trouble. The defense though is the real star of this squad, though they did lose strong safety Jim Leonard, linebacker Bart Scott, and defensive end Marques Douglas. But they still have Ray Lewis, Terrel Suggs, and play maker Ed Reed. That'll be good enough once again to be one of the top defenses in the league for the 2nd year in a row. You can call the Ravens boring, vanilla, expected, sure you can say all that but it wins games and it's effective. The Ravens pound you with the run, run play action and hit you for marginal gains. They use every possible player to pick away at your defense, effectively and monotonously moving the ball down the field. The defense blitzes often and intercepts a lot of passes, last year they picked off 23, that number was 2nd in the NFL. So where do the Ravens fit in this year? They're basicly the same team, maybe a little weaker in their line backing corps, but better for the fact that Joe Flacco is coming into his 2nd year and that should mean more points for the offense. But can the team duplicate or improve on it's performance from a year ago, that's really the question, because really this is the same team, a year older, perhaps wiser.

Cincinnati Bengals

The Cincinnati Bengals are one of the most cursed franchises in the league, with such an awful past where is there to hope? Well Carson Palmer is back and healthy, with a newly dedicated Chad Ochocinco, the new receiving acquisition Laverneus Coles, and slot man Chris Henry, the Bengals are poised to make their mark this season. Palmer holds all the keys to victory for the Bengals, if he stays healthy and gets time to throw the Bengals could be the surprise of the year. Even if running back Cedric Benson is only marginally effective this upcoming season this offense could be one of the best in the entire NFL. They have a very solid line, it's very close to being one of the best in the league. But what i think will surprise everyone is the play of the vastly improved defense. Rey Maualuga the Bengals first round draft pick, will make an immediate impact, and should be a front runner for defensive rookie of the year. The middle linebacker is mean, fast, athletic, and has a chip on his shoulder. Coming back from injury Keith Rivers will do even more damage now that Maualuga has to be accounted for. Roy Williams coming over from Dallas will make an immediate impact in the secondary, along with Leon Hall the secondary will be so much better this season. With Tank Johnson plugging up the middle, Maualuga, Dhani Jones, and Keith Rivers roaming the field at Linebacker and Hall with Williams in the secondary, this defense will surprise a lot of people this season. So the outlook for the season certainly is positive, but Bengal fans know better than to be optimistic as it has come back to bite them many a time. But this season, this season smacks of something special in Cinncinati, Palmer will give an MVP type of performance this season, Ochocinco will still be a prima donna but will perform again this year, as will Coles and Henry. The offense will be explosive, the defense will be once again, surprisingly good. Watch out for the Bengals this year, every year there is a team that puts it together from on paper to on the playing field. I believe that this year Cincinnati puts it together and gets to the playoffs.

Cleveland Browns

OK, without the quarterback controversy with Brady Quinn and Derek Andersen, this team is pretty messed up. So add that to the equation, and that really messes the team up, Eric Mangini will have his hands full this season. Though it hasn't been announced most experts have picked coach Mangini to pick the young franchise quarterback Quinn. I think he's the best option for them right now at quarterback. They have an aging Jamal Lewis who has been pretty ineffective for the past few years and i don't really see that changing. Braylon Edwards is a dynamic play making wide receiver but he led the league in drops last season and needs to be more consistent for the Browns to be successful. Joe Thomas is one of the best left tackles in the game and does a great job protecting the quarterback and run blocking, but the rest of the offensive line is a mess. The defense has some hope for it in linebacker De'Qwell Jackson, who was a big play maker for them last year. Shaun Rogers is one of the best defensive tackles in the league and that won't change even on the worst team in the AFC North. The secondary is pretty terrible, Eric Wright is the lone bright spot, but even he has lost a step since leaving Baltimore a few years ago. This is a bad team, there are no ways around it, it's going to take a lot for them to turn it around, and i don't see that happening for at least a few seasons.

AFC North Projected Standings

Cincinnati 11-5

Baltimore 11-5

Pittsburgh 10-6

Cleveland 3-13

2009 NFL Preview NFC North

2009-09-04T12:09:00.000-07:00

NFC North

The NFC North is going to be a very intriguing division this year, with the arrival of Jay Cutler in Chicago, Aaron Rodgers looking to come on strong in his second year as starting quarterback for the Packers, Minnesota and their tumultuous off season with Brett Favre, as well as the Detroit Lions who look to rebound from an 0-16 season. I can't believe I'm saying this but the NFC North could be one of the most exciting divisions all season. It's a division of quarterbacks with future hall of famer Brett Favre, coming in, Jay Cutler and Aaron Rodgers who both threw for over 4,000 yards and 25 plus touchdowns, are also within the division. The Lions meanwhile look to start their franchise rookie quarterback Matthew Stafford. The Vikings won the division last year posting at 10-6 record, Chicago hung in there all season but faltered at the end. This division really is a toss up because you don't know how each new player is going to affect his team and the rest of the division, it should be excited to see this year.

Green Bay Packers

Aaron Rodgers took over for the future hall of famer Brett Favre last year, though Rodgers put up spectacular numbers(4,038 yards and 28 tds) he led his team to a disappointing 6-10 record. Returning are receivers Greg Jennings and Donald Driver, who are both pro bowl caliber players and will aid Rodgers greatly in the passing game. Ryan Grant returns healthy after only rushing for 4 touchdowns last season, his reemergence in the offense will balance things out nicely. A sleeper player to keep your eye on is slot receiver Jordy Nelson, not very well known to most fans outside of Green Bay, Nelson has the size and route running capabilities to gouge the defense for big yards down the field. The big story is on the other side of the ball, with new defensive coordinator Dom Capers installing a 3-4 defense. The packers drafted B.J. Raji to play the nose tackle and defensive end Aaron Kampman will switch from his usual spot to play some linebacker. Nick Barnett and rookie Clay Matthews will bolster a front seven that could barely stop anyone last year. Greenbay has one of the best secondaries in football, the same group is coming back in 2009, they were 3rd in the NFL last year with 22 interceptions. This defensive squad will be better this season with the additions of Raji and Matthews, being able to get consistent pressure on the quarterback will alleviate some of the pressure off of Rodgers and the offense. Scoring points wasn't an issue last season for the Packers as they averaged 26.2 points a game, unfortunately they gave up nearly 27 points a game defensively. In a tough division, i see the Packers doing well, i think you'll see Aaron Rodgers take that next step to being one of the game's best quarterbacks.

Chicago Bears

The big story in the off season and at the start of free agency was, will the Broncos trade Jay Cutler? They did, and Chicago was the lucky team that landed the franchise quarterback. The Bears feel this is the final piece to put together a playoff run, and get back to the Superbowl. Along with dynamic running back Matt Forte and above average defensive squad, the Bears are very optimistic about the upcoming season. But it seems that the Bears might be missing some pieces after all. The wide receiver position is a little thin with Rasheed Davis, Devin Hester, and Earl Bennett. There isn't too much to get excited about here, even if Hester is an electric returner, he leaves something to be desired at receiver. Matt Forte is an excellent back, rushing for 1,238 yards and 8 touchdowns, he also added in the passing game with 63 receptions, 477 yards, and 4 touchdowns. He is their biggest play maker and an injury to him would be devastating, with no viable option to back him up. Cutler is a top tier quarterback but takes a lot of chances, especially when he doesn't need to. He's going to need some help at some point and i question whether any of these receivers are up to the task. Though there is some help receiving with two pretty good tight ends. Greg Olsen and Desmond Clark are one of the better tight end duo's in the league. They'll give Cutler a safety blanket to go to when he's in trouble. The defense will be pretty good again this year, Tommy Harris is coming back from reconstructive knee surgery, and Brian Urlacher has lost a step but he is still one of the best middle linebackers in the league. Gone is Mike Brown from the Free Safety spot, and to take his spot Danieal Manning the former cornerback. The defense otherwise is still pretty much the same, Lance Briggs returns to his spot at outside linebacker next to Urlacher, and the squad should be formidable once again. The Bears might have enough to steal the division from the Vikings and Packers, they run the ball well with Forte and have good targets down the field in Olson and Clark, but i still have to question with the talent they lack at the receiver position if it won't come back to bite them.

Minnesota Vikings

When a big story breaks in the NFL it always seems to be topped, i mean if i told you that Brett Favre had taken forever to make a decision weather to play again or not, and then he decided he would retire, and then recanted his statement and came back in the 3rd week of preseason, would you have believed me? Yeah, i wouldn't have either, but such is life in the NFL and Brett Favre is the starting quarterback for the very hungry Minnesota Vikings. It goes without saying that the Minnesota Vikings have the best running back in the league with stud Adrian Peterson, who rushed for over 1,700 yards and 10 touchdowns. Now with the experienced, future hall of famer in their backfield as well, it looks on paper that the Vikings will contend for a Superbowl tittle. Well, not so fast, first of all, how do we know that Brett Favre won't implode like he did last season. Supporters say that he didn't have the run game he has now in Minnesota, well that's not true he had a pretty good back in Thomas Jones and Leon Washington who combined for 1,760 yards and 19 touchdowns. When it comes to receivers the Vikings have some guys who can make plays. Bernard Berrian was the deep play threat last year, and should be a favorite target of Favre, the same goes for tight end Vishante Shiancoe who could have a break out year. The Vikings drafted wide receiver Percy Harvin out of Florida and he should add a lot of big play potential not only at receiver but in the return game as well. A very good offensive line should ensure that the 39 year old quarterback doesn't get hit more than he has to. The defense is one of the most underrated in the league. Chad Greenway and EJ Henderson make up for a great pair of linebackers, and on the line you have the two Williams Pat, and Kevin to clog the middle and force the opposing running back to the outside. This team feels complete, like a team that should be one of the best in the NFC. But, I'm not completely sold on Favre, i don't know if he has enough in him to lead another team to a Superbowl tittle.

Detroit Lions

What can i say that hasn't already been said about this franchise? The worst team ever, some have said. At 0-16 things must have looked pretty bleak for Detroit. But with a new, young, head coach in Jim Schwartz, Matthew Stafford their franchise quarterback and one of the best receivers in the league with Calvin Johnson, the Lions can start building toward the future this season. Jim Schwartz comes over from Tennessee where he successfully built one of the best defensive teams in football. Now comes a mountain of a challenge, starting over from a win less season. But there is hope as i said, Kevin Smith returns at runningback, and he should give them a solid basis for a run game. Calvin Johnson gets some help in the receiving corps with the addition of Bryant Johnson, and rookie Derrick Williams out of Penn State. The offensive line has improved but isn't quite where it needs to be. The defensive side of the ball is intriguing as Schwartz has signed some very talented players. Julian Peterson was traded for with Seattle, they also signed veteran cornerback Phillip Buchanon, and linebacker Larry Foote. With these additions to the defense and Ernie Sims playing the middle linebacking spot, this defense could really mold into a formidable group. But their are some holes like 3/4's of the secondary and the defensive line is somewhat thin. They have a rookie quarterback starting for them and need to give the kid time to go through his reads and make the right throws. This team is in a rebuilding mode, but i think that in a few seasons if not next season, they'll be able to contend for a division tittle.

Projected NFC North Standings

Green Bay 11-5

Chicago 10-6

Minnesota 8-8

Detroit 5-11

2009 NFL Preview AFC West

2009-09-03T21:21:00.000-07:00

AFC West

It can be easily said that the worst division in the American Football Conference is the AFC West, with 3 teams that have been rebuilding for at least 3 seasons, and in some cases longer than that, The San Diego Chargers seem to run away with it every year. Except of course last year, when the chargers at 5-8 with 3 games to go last year needed to win all 3 remaining games and have their division counterpart Denver Broncos lose all 3 of their remaining games. It turns out that it just wasn't the Denver Broncos year, in a season where the team started 4-1 only to finish up 3-8, for an overall record of 7-9. What was truly magical about the whole turn of events was that in a game against Kansas City the Chargers rallied by scoring 19 unanswered points, including recovering an onside kick, and scored a touchdown with 36 seconds remaining to win 22-21. The even more amazing thing was the season finale against Denver. All Denver had to do to win the division, and get back to the playoffs for the first time since 2006, was beat the Chargers, the Broncos got blown out 52-21. So now it's on to the 2009 season, Jay Cutler is gone from Denver, replaced by the mediocre Kyle Orton, speedy wide out Darrius Heyward-Bey gives Jamarcus Russel and the raiders a dynamic, deep threat, and a new look Chiefs look to contend with Matt Cassel and a new head coaching regime.

San Diego Chargers

Easily the front runners from the start, the San Diego Chargers are the most talented, physical, experienced, and well, best team in the division. Phillip Rivers is a star in the making, posting 4,000 yards and 34 touchdowns last year. Their receiving corps isn't very sexy or dynamic, but Vincent Jackson(59 rec, 1,098 yards, 7 tds) and Antonio Gates(60 rec, 704 yards, 8 tds) are very effective at getting open, making plays down the field, and making plays after the catch. Gates could easily be the best tight end in the game, and has done it consistently over the past 5 seasons. The Chargers bolster a potential league leading two heading monster rushing attack in Ladanian Tomlinson and Darren Sproles. Though there are some question marks about the mileage on Tomlinson's legs, i think he'll be fine this season, especially if he's sharing some time with speedy back Sproles, who torched Indianapolis in last year's wild card playoff game win for 328 total yards. Sproles does it running outside, inside, through the air, and returning kicks, whenever he's on the field he has to be accounted for. A big reason San Diego struggled so much last year was their missing play making linebacker Sean Merriman. They should be much better defensively with their biggest star on that side of the ball back and healthy. The Chargers should have no problems dominating their division once again this year, they didn't add really anything, but for once they are healthy and have their eyes set on winning it all this season.

Oakland Raiders

The Oakland Raiders have struggled every single year since making it to the Superbowl back in 2002 under then coach Bill Callahan. Since that season they've gone through 5 coaches, 4 different quarterbacks, and a number of humiliating defeats. But they think they have the quarterback of the future in Jamarcus Russel, a big play making wide receiver in Darrius Heyward-Bey, and a elusive, speedy, homerun threat in running back Darren Mcfadden. All of this sounds great, but once again it's all about making it work on the field on game day. Over the past few seasons they have gotten much better defensively. Nnamdi Asomugha is by far the best shutdown corner in the NFL. But he needs more help, he can't do much if the opposing team doesn't throw his way the entire game, and picks on Stanford Routt for 300 yards a game. Kirk Morrison is a very athletic, young, play making linebacker and is essential as he is the anchor for the defensive squad. Thomas Howard will also be crucial to the line backing corps, as he needs to have his presence felt for this team to be successful. This seems to be a make or break year for Jamarcus Russel, he has everything he needs to succeed, a big, tall target in tight end Zach Miller to go along with Heyward-Bey and Javon Walker to throw to. He also has a stable running attack with backs Mcfadden, Justin Fargas, and Michael Bush. The offensive line is steady and healthy so the Raiders should have no problem moving the ball on opposing defenses. The defensive unit is solid enough to hold opponents to around 20 points a game. If they can play above themselves they could suprise some people this season. This team should be good enough to make a playoff run, the question is can they put it all together and play as a team? I guess we'll see.

Kansas City Chiefs

The Kansas City Chiefs made a lot of moves this off season trading and signing quarterback Matt Cassel from New England. Also hiring former New England Patriot General Manager Scott Pioli and hiring Todd Haley as their head coach, the former offensive coordinator in Arizona. They also traded away the best player on the team in tight end Tony Gonzalez. They picked up Bobby Engram from Seattle and he should be a favorite target of the young quarterback, along with second year receiver Dwayne Bowe. They've got a talented back in Larry Johnson, but the question remains if he will be happy this season playing once again on a rebuilding squad. He seems to be content currently with his role in the offense. When healthy and motivated Johnson can be a 1,500 yard back. Derrick Johnson anchors a lackluster defensive squad, leading the defense last year with 86 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 4 forced fumbles, and 1 interception. Zach Thomas and Mike Vrabel were signed in the off season and should bring some much needed experience to this defense. On paper the defensive line should be one of the best with pass rushing Tamba Hali, and rookie Tyson Jackson, and last years pick Glenn Dorsey. With a little time and patience the front seven could be in the top 10 at the end of the season. The secondary is very thin I'm afraid and will be the Chiefs weak spot in 2009. It's easy to see why fans are excited to see what this team can do this season. A young up and coming quarterback, young receivers to throw the ball to, a big reliable running back, and a front seven that could be very intimidating. The Chiefs still have much to prove but maybe, just maybe they can surprise some people this year.

Denver Broncos

You know if the Denver Broncos had managed it right, they might have been able to contend for an AFC West tittle. But as it were, they traded away their franchise quarterback Jay Cutler, and have a disgruntled number one receiver in Brandon Marshall. New coach Josh Mcdaniels sure could have started his career better in Denver than trying to trade Cutler away from Cassel, but hey let's not harp on the negative. Their number one draft pick Knowshon Moreno, who is supposed to revitalize their run game is out right now with an injury, and their replacement at quarterback Kyle Orton, has thrown 4 interceptions in 3 preseason games. So yea i can understand why Bronco fans are concerned right now, maybe they'll be better than i am perceiving right now, but i really doubt it. When he gets back to being healthy, Moreno will be relied on to carry the load for this offense. Kyle Orton isn't going to surprise anyone, but i think he can still play, and if Marshall decides to come out of his funk he's a pro bowl caliber receiver along with last year's best rookie receiver Eddie Royal, the Broncos can score points, maybe. From what I've seen so far in preseason it hasn't been pretty, but then again i criticize everyone who reads too much into preseason. The defense is retooling, Champ Bailey is still there, but he's aging. Robert Ayers the first round pick should have an immediate impact at the stand up defensive end/linebacker spot. The defensive line is a little thin and so is most of the secondary, except for newcomer Brian Dawkins, he should really bring the intensity to a defensive unit that is sorely lacking in that department. DJ Williams is a young, talented, play making linebacker and he'll need to do all he can on this defense to help them win. Hopefully first looks aren't much good, because even looking at all the hypothetical positive outlooks for this young team, the Denver Broncos might be the worst team in football this year.

Projected AFC West Standings

San Diego 10-6

Oakland 8-8

Kansas City 7-9

Denver 4-12

2009 NFL Preview NFC West

2009-09-03T13:41:00.000-07:00

So this is the first year that I'm doing this, it's a big job, analyzing every team, and trying to pick who will win it all. I've been watching football since 1996, and I've always been such a fan of the game, there really isn't anything like it. So i guess we'll start off with the weakest divisions (NFC West, AFC West,) to the strongest (NFC East, AFC South) and I'll try not to screw up too much.

NFC West

Some new faces will be seen this season in the NFC west, most notably T.J. Houshmanzadeh, and some leaving such as Rocky Bernard, and Antonio Smith. The Arizona Cardinals won the division last year, posting a 6-0 record inside the division, and a woeful 2-7 record outside out it, for an overall record of 9-7. Seattle was decimated by injuries and were not contenders all year, and then you have San Francisco and St. Louis both who are in rebuilding modes.

Arizona Cardinals

Kurt Warner put together one of the most surprising and inspiring seasons a year ago, at age 37 Warner completed 67 percent of his passes, threw for over 4,500 yards and 30 touchdowns. The obvious question is can he do it again? Returning are star receivers Larry Fitzgerald(96 rec, 1,431 yards, 12 tds) and the disgruntled Anquan Boldin(89 rec, 1038 yards, 11 tds). Easily the best receiving tandem in the league, it looks like Boldin has gotten over his contract dispute with upper management for the time being and is focused on the upcoming season. The offensive line is solid, and they've added depth to their backfield by drafting Ohio State running back Beanie Wells. Though in my opinion it wasn't the offense that needed help last year, the defense was one of the worst, barely being able to stop anyone. They lost defensive tackle Antonio Smith to the Texans, but they return 10 defensive starters. If the Cardinals want to get back to the playoffs and dominate their division again, they'll have to improve vastly on the defensive side of the ball.

Seattle Seahawks

The Seahawks would have probably been competitive with the Cardinals last year if they would have stayed healthy. With the additions of T.J. Houshmanzadeh at wide receiver and Edgerain James in the backfield, along with rookie linebacker Aaron Curry, the Seahawks look primed to contend for a division crown. Though they lost veteran wide-out Bobby Engram, they've gained a big play maker in Houshmanzadeh. He's deceptively fast, and if you don't respect him he'll burn you. That should be good news for Matt Hasselbeck who's coming off a multi-injury season where he never got comfortable playing quarterback. Healthy, and rejuvenated, Hasselbeck looks to get back to posting another 3,000 yard 20 touchdown campaign. The defense lost defensive tackle Rocky Bernard and linebacker Julian Peterson, and i think they'll feel that, but they feel comfortable putting Aaron Curry in, the rookie from Wake Forest. Along with veteran Lofa Tatupu and a solid secondary, the Seattle Defense should do enough to let the offense win the game for them.

Sanfranciso 49ers

The quarterback carousel has been going on for the past 3 seasons in San Fran and it looks like it has finally stopped on Shaun Hill. Being decisive in his decision making, being a true leader and having almost the entire team behind him, Hill has made his mark on his team and it shows. Along with leading rusher Frank Gore, wide outs Issac Bruce, Josh Morgan, and Arnez Battle, tight end Vernon Davis looks to emerge this season as well. This offense is ready to explode, but can it? Can they put all the pieces together to be one of the best in the league? It is possible, but they had all these pieces in place last year, and they couldn't put it together. The defense was very good last year, but didn't get any spotlight, because the offense was so bad. Linebacker Patrick Willis is an emerging star with huge upside and is the staple of the 49ers defense. The secondary is about average, with Nate Clements leading the way, and an season ending injury already to the other starting corner Walt Harris. Though there is talk of a distraction for the team in the form of unsigned first round rookie pick Michael Crabtree. The talent is there for Sanfrancisco, but can they put it all together? The offense has to improve it's consistency, protect their quarterback, and give Frank Gore the ball, the back has averaged 1,200 yards and 10 touchdowns over the past 3 seasons.

St. Louis Rams

First year coach Steve Spagnolo put together quite the defensive unit with the New York Giants over the past 5 years, earning a Superbowl victory as the defensive coordinator that shut down Tom Brady for most of that game. Now in St.Louis this will be quite the project, with an injured up and coming receiver, and a team coming off of a 2-14 season. But Donnie Avery is back from injury, the Rams also traded for wide receiver Ronald Curry, which many of you may not know, but i know the guy from Oakland a few years back, and he has good speed and a lot of talent. They also have one of the fastest, most physical, bruising backs in the game in Steven Jackson, who should be primed for a 12-1400 yard season. The guy reminds me a lot of a faster Brandon Jacobs, a guy that has breakaway speed but has the power to run over middle linebackers. The front seven will be a lot better with Ohio State's James Laurenitis coming in, he'll be able to team with Will Witherspoon as the outside backer, and with Chris Long and Leonard Little at the end spots, that should cause some defensive pressure for a group that has lacked it in years past. They have a good line, and a very good back, so they should focus on their running game, especially in a weak defensive division as it is in the NFC West. Marc Bulger returns at quarterback, and when given time is a top 15 quarterback.

Projected NFC West Standings

Seattle Seahwaks 10-6

Arizona Cardinals 8-8

Sanfrancisco 49ers 6-10

St.Louis Rams 4-12

Series Review: Six Feet Under

2009-08-29T22:06:00.000-07:00

If there was ever something that i have viewed out of the numerous things that i have viewed that i can honestly say changed my life, as silly as that sounds, it has to be Six Feet Under. Premiering in 2001, Six Feet Under changed television forever, it was something that was unprecedented and pretty revolutionary. I'm using these words and i'm a little scared they'll be judged as being wrong, but i know they aren't. For the simple fact that while watching the entire 5 season series, i have been more moved and touched than anything i have ever seen, i haven't felt anything this strong for a show or a movie ever. It's quite overwhelming, and here i am watching it for the second time through still amazed at how affected i am at it's powerful catharsis. Six Feet Under is the greatest show to ever be put on a screen, and it's miles ahead of any close competitor. For it's deep poignancy and meaning, dark humor and look at our lives and how they cease to go on.

Six Feet Under is about the Fisher family of Los Angeles who owns a funeral home, each episode consists of the current funeral they tend to and what is happening within the family, such as conflicts, relationships, and other events. The starring cast is that of Peter Krause who plays 35 year old brother Nate, Michael C. Hall (of Dexter fame) as 31 year old David, Lauren Ambros as teenager Claire, and finally Francis Conroy as the mother in her 60's Ruth. Freddy Rodriguez plays the help at the home as Rico and Matthew St. Patrick plays Keith, David's boyfriend. All the acting here is nothing short of superb and thorough. The writing is the best I've ever seen and plot developments are some of the deepest you'll find. The plot sounds simple enough, but it's surprisingly in depth, and emotionally involving.

Now that I've finished watching the show the second time through completely, it marvels me at just how good it is. At the saddest of moments especially in season 5, I'm amazed at how it still makes me gasp for air in my sobbing. I'm not embarrassed to admit that I've openly sobbed at this show, the emotional involvement is unlike anything I've experienced when characters die, it's like i knew them. Maybe the writers just do an excellent job of making their point stick, making it so you have to be self involved. Nothing has ever affected me like this, and as you try to grasp the idea of death in that you will never share any moment with that person ever again, your only left with more sobbing.

I can't fully explain why it hits me so hard, but the show itself is filled with excellent talent, flawed characters, and poignant, deep, discussion. As much as Peter Krause shines as the likable, free spirited, laid back older brother, Michael C. Hall shows emence depth as the younger, stoic, anal retentive David and has unlimited range in my opinion(showing us what he can do on Dexter). Alan Ball is the series creator you might know him as the screenwriter of American Beauty or the creator of another current hit show True Blood. He truly did a marvelous job, Six Feet Under changed everything when it comes to TV, and we'll never see anything quite like it.

Inglourious Basterds

2009-08-26T18:41:00.001-07:00

It was about 10 minutes into Quentin Tarantino's new film Inglourious Basterds, that it hit me, this..is what a film looks like. Flowing seamlessly across the screen, without hesitation, characters molded perfectly, with a touch of stylish nuances. Honestly the film was just so entertaining, neat and in touch with it's characters, their stories and the part they have to play in what is yet to come. I can say without a doubt that this is Tarantino's best work, most complete, put together, smart, and entertaining film. Inglourious Basterds is a story of a military task force put together of American Jews disguised as civilians, who infiltrate France at the height of World War II. On all the TV spots it says starring Brad Pitt though he's only in about a quarter of the movie if that. 75% of the dialogue in this film is German and french, it's a nice touch, something that isn't seen much today in cinema. The whole film just had a very complete feel to it, all of the different parts of all the different characters have their own touches and nuances.

The standout performance in the film is that of Christoph Waltz as Col. Hans Landa, and what a performance it is. A sort of leader of the SS, he has an opening scene where he is charming, charismatic, and a complete and utter monster. He gives one of the years best performances, in a very deliciously evil, sly, cunning way that is quite unique. A lot of the other performances are scattered throughout the film and are all well done and feel authentic, though if there is one downside to the film it's Brad Pitt's character. Though he is put in the story as the leader of the "Basterds" and is good as comic relief, is really just a caricature. For being a main character, it's a pretty weak performance. But that's my only nit pick in a film that is so close to being perfect.

The film is technically wondrous, great scene movement, beautiful cinematography, and very fine camera work. There is a key scene with an undercover British operative, where the tension mounts and mounts and as you wait for there to be bloodshed, the intensity just keeps building. I thought it was so perfect, the whole mood that was captured with that scene, something so hard to describe and then to display it perfectly. Inglourious Basterds is easily one of the years best, and could see a lot of attention come Oscar season. It's very good, it's entertaining, and a well made, fun, complete film. I was pleasantly surprised, at just how good this was, August might turn out to be the best month for films this year.

it's time for an unimportant, me just talking post

2009-08-23T21:30:00.000-07:00

So, i don't really know what to talk about, but it's been a week and i think it's time for a blog, even if it is just me talking about random things. I think that i'm clearly a socialist at heart, i mean im extremely liberal, i doubt that there is a conservative bone in my body. I detest the whole idea of constricting feelings, wants, desires, because of some kind of moral superiority complex. Right now there is some old guy on tv saying we should censor pornography, it's already censored, i say if people want it, it'll be available and it shouldn't be hidden like people should be ashamed of it. Whatever, i'm an extremely free person, live and let live i say, and why not? Just because someone doesn't live their life like you doesn't mean you need to justify your beliefs being right or correct by saying that person is immoral or evil. It's a joke, you go that way, let the other person go their way, why would we want to be the same?

I'm really excited for the football season to start, i don't know if i've ever been this excited about it before. I think about the possibility of relationships, down the road with women..girls...and i think i could be happy, but then i'm hit with ten reasons why i shouldn't even try. I don't know, i think it'll happen with someone i want to be with if i want it to..and that it's something i shouldn't spend too much time thinking about. I'm excited about seeing my friends in washington, and flying out there. Though i'm really scared of heights..and it kind of freaks me out that im thousands of feet above the ground, though in reality it's safer than driving. Not to mention that being in the air..there isn't anything i could do anyway, if something went wrong. So It's just best to sit back and enjoy the ride.

I hate where i live, half the people i see are missing teeth and the other half are just, well morons, i'm sorry but it's true. And it's really frustrating, i can't understand how people don't yearn for something more, but i guess when it's all that you know, you can yearn for something you don't know about. Then again i'm talking about social conservatives, and i mean unintelligent, ignorant, and intollerant certainly paints a picture in my head. I really dislike this state, though it's really the people. The state itself is very beautiful, very lush, and quite vibrant, it has quite a bit to offer, but so many people are just so regressive thinkers. Seattle really seems like a perfect and ideal fit for me. A progressive city that is alive, and open minded, and that i can get excited about living in.

Well i'm sorry there wasn't too much to talk about this time around, not too much is going on in my life right now. My job is going ok, i mean it's fast food, but it's money and it works and for the most part i'm doing well. I miss my beard, i think that it was quite majestic, maybe not..but it was still pretty sweet. I miss my friends, and i'm pretty lonely a lot of the time, hopefully i'll be able to change that soon.

500 Days Of Summer Review - The Best Film Of The Year

2009-08-16T17:33:00.000-07:00

OK i know I'm going to get some flack for this one, but give it a view before you disagree. But what i saw today in a Harrisburg theater, was something quite original, organic, and exceptional. That's right i am labeling a romantic comedy exceptional. But like i said, watch it before you tear me down. 500 days of summer tells the story of Tom(Joseph Gordon-Levitt) a pretty average guy, who notices an attractive girl named Summer(Zooey Deschanel) at the office where he writes greeting cards. The story goes on that Summer is someone who doesn't believe in love. The film tells the story of their relationship over a non linear timeline of 500 days. A nice storytelling method i thought, and it's a nice change of pace. I want to say that first off this film is what romantic comedies should be, genuinely laugh out loud funny moments teemed with tender, touching, genuine romantic themes. Marc Webb hit every nail on the head with the entire production here, and created something amazing. A romantic comedy that was romantic and hilarious, poignant, and entertaining.

It's the perfect film to talk about considering my last post, the narrator talks of the film not being a love story rather that it's a story about love, and how true and clever that phrase is when talking about this one. Deschanel and Gordon-Levitt's performances were very good, and i can't really understate how good they were, very pure and organic, seemingly coming from the most intimate of places. Deschanel pulls off the distant, beautiful, you can't have her because she's that amazing young woman. Even as you feel close to her, she makes you feel like an idiot as you realize the truth. The film perfectly captures being in the moment with that person we've all had in our lives, and then the look back, as we see all the best moments of our time with them..but never seeming to grasp the bad ones.

This film for me personally hits deep on many levels and maybe that's why i enjoyed it so much, and felt crushed at certain scenes. It's beautifully filmed, Webb makes L.A. look like S.F. or Seattle, feeling alive as the actors move seamlessly from one scene to the next. Throughout the entire film i felt my eyes being sympathetic, and completely engulfed in the storyline. We care so much about this character, because many if not all of us have been through this crushing defeat. This is greatly portrayed by the actors, director, and the film as a whole, 500 days of summer, is incredible in this. I can't tell you how funny this film is while still being poignant, and tender, and intimate. Something I've never seen in a film, and something that i won't forget anytime soon.

Perhaps It's Time To Try Again In Love

2009-08-12T17:25:00.000-07:00

OK, I'm going to attempt to talk about this subject with intelligence, using my head instead of my feelings, and with both of my feet on the ground, I'm talking of course of love. But it's hard really, especially the episodes that I've been through in the past three years. Those of you who know me, know of what i speak, and I've learned through these episodes to be better for it, surely. It's something that I've certainly questioned weather it's real or not. Though i am a hypocrite because i argue that reality is perception, so weather you believe in it or not that's your reality. But i think that love is only real because we ourselves feel it in our very bones, it's quite a beautiful thing given the best circumstances. It can turn ugly and turn people into monsters, cause them to do terrible things, through the name of love.

Love by definition is insanity, doing the same thing over and over again expecting a different result. We get into relationships with one another, they end, and through the amount of emotion and time and energy spent in these relationships we come out of them completely drained and pained. Yet we move on and do the exact same thing, get involved with people based on appearance, virtue, ideals, and their personality. It just seems like one big circle..always continuous, always ending the same way. Though it shows that some people can make it work and have found profound happiness with their significant individual. Then you have those couples that have been together for 50 plus years and hate each other, but out of the principals of marriage they stay together.

We all have had those instant connections with people, where the relationship is so passionate and addicting in those first few months, where seeing that person makes your heart jump. But in any relationship you become accustomed to that person and some of that passion fades away. Which is why you see some relationships fizzle out after only 2 or 3 months, relationships that last have love in them more often and have that quality keeping those two people together. There are hundreds ways people break up and get together, and most don't include love, understanding, substance, or compassion. I've seen relationships form and fall apart all around me throughout my life. But the ones that I've seen last, I've seen communication, understanding, compatibility, and compromise. The first and last i believe are the most important, give me two better ones, seriously I'm asking you to come up with two better qualities to have than compromise and communication.

I've long had the conclusion that I'd be fine being alone for the rest of my life, i don't want that, but if it comes to that, i honestly like myself enough to be by myself. Most people are materialistic, shallow, vapid, vain, ignorant, banal, and moronic. If i have to choose between that and being alone...i choose myself. I have enough self appreciation to choose that over being stuck with some ..thing. But that's life really, I'm not going to compromise what i strongly feel about for some loneliness. No matter how crushing it can seem, it's not worth being miserable, giving up on the important things in this life.

Now to me, yes i am that egotistical, I've really stayed away from a lot of people in my young life, seeing what a "normal" couple consists of, i have no desire to be apart of that. A bunch of consumers who date their college counterpart on looks, and stay together because it's what is considered "normal". No thank you, what about getting to know someone, getting in touch with who we are as human beings, breaking down all the barriers to get to the heart of all that is and all that is possible. That's my ideal relationship, someone who sees me, and i mean truly sees me for who i am. Who knows what they want, and doesn't dick around with my feelings, someone who is intelligent, somewhat good looking, and open minded. There are so many mind fucks when it comes to intimacy and being close in a romantic relationship, because of all of our past negative emotionally destructive relationships and painful memories.

I began this blog trying to reason a jump back into love, i have failed, the safe play would be to just be alone for the rest of my life. But as many of you know human beings are not really interested into playing it safe. We want things that excite our bodies and minds, we want to feel wanted, appreciated, and accepted. I am no different, as much as i despise nearly the entire human race..i cannot deny that i am one of them. I have started seeing a young lady/woman by the name of Kristen recently. Right now things are good, we both like each other, we're both carrying some baggage, and we're taking it slow. I like her because like me she isn't like everyone else, she actually thinks for herself, she's intelligent, she likes me for who i am, and she makes me smile.

I can't say what will happen with her, and that's scary because i can't see it, feel it, touch it, and the uncertainty is quite daunting. But I'm hopeful for whatever reason, and reason this hopeful feeling i cannot. All i really know is that she's cute, has a great smile, she smells good, and she's as intelligent as i am and all those things are big pluses in my book. Reason tells me that it won't work out..for whatever reason, but right now i don't really care, if i don't give it a chance it won't work anyway. This is the first girl I've really liked in such a long time, and i feel so good about that, i won't, i can't just let that go to waste, and for that I'm a happy guy. So what's the lesson here? How do you avoid getting hurt, who do you know to trust, what's the right angle for you to play so you can come out ahead? You can't avoid getting hurt, you just have to trust people and hope you have good judgement, and the right angle to play is none, just be yourself. So really love is insane, we have to have a short memory if we want to have meaningful relationships. And we have to hope that the relationships we forge are good ones, and do our best to make it all work.

Changing The American Mindset On Health Care Reform

2009-08-08T17:23:00.000-07:00

It can be easily said that all of us need health care in this country, of course because we don't have socialized medicine. Nearly 50 million Americans don't have this necessity, and because of that, too many of us needlessly don't get the care we need or even succumb to death. I personally don't have health care insurance, it's too much, it would take too much out of my pay check if my job even offered benefits. So it's not really an option for me, i can't think about other people, people with kids who really need insurance and are in debt or are just breaking even, without the insurance. Then there are those of us who have preexisting conditions, and can't get insurance to begin with. It's one big system meant to take advantage of people in shitty situations.

During the campaign for the presidency last summer and fall, president Obama vowed an overhaul and general reform of our health care system. The man was slandered as a socialist, a radical, a terrorist, another good ol' republican fear mongering campaign. But the man is the farthest thing, to create change, real change, one must stir things up, one must keep driving towards one's goals. Though that usually ruffles some feathers, not to mention that 75 percent of all the lobbyists in Washington D.C. are for the pharmaceutical companies and medical insurance companies. Though when reaching for general reform, you're going to really upset some people. Change means sacrificing for the bigger picture, but i really don't see most Americans going for that, because they'll believe whatever the conservative party wants them to believe because they're scared to believe in forward progression.

When the U.S. Senate got a filibuster proof number of 60 back in November it was believed that Obama would be able to pass any bill he wished. But about a month ago that came to a screeching halt when the "blue dog" democrats had some issues with his health care reform bill. It was said that the bill cost too much at first, then when it was trimmed, too much was trimmed and that there wasn't enough backing for medicare and an equal opportunity for private and public options to be competitive with one another. Not to mention that while all of this was going on the republicans were whining about cost, and the deficit, and how the government is just wastefully spending. Then they came out with their attacks on the bill which were completely false and slanderous. Telling the elderly that at a certain age they would be cut off of care, and that you only get so many visits per year, no to mention the lie that the insurance companies won't be able to compete with the public option so your company will drop you.

See my friends, what this is, what this really is, is just bullshit politics. I honestly see president Obama as a communicator, an understanding, compassionate, individual who wants what is best in his mind for America. So here comes the latest propaganda coming out of the republican party, that really Obama and his administration wants to kill off the elderly and that's why he wants to get it passed so quickly. This and the many other propagandizing comments have made most notably middle class America, terrorized that they're going to lose their insurance or not be cared for, or made to radically change their lives. So during the past few weeks at these town hall meetings something has become so finally clear to me.

President Obama and his constituents have gone around the country for the past few weeks promoting his health care overhaul and reform bill. But thanks to giant P.R. firms paid for by conservative lobby groups and the republican party, they have contaminated the message of health care for all into malicious, exploitative, manufactured, rhetoric to makes themselves even wealthier. These town hall meetings aren't concerned "regular" folks getting together because they have a common concern about health care. This is nasty, mean, ugly lies spread by these companies and lobbyists to tear down this president and administration. Maybe it really comes back to republicans still crying over the spilt milk of losing the past election. Maybe it's that republicans in general will do anything to progress and move forward. I hate pointing the finger in any given situation, but it's pretty clear in this matter what's going on.

I can understand Americans being afraid of what they don't understand, and having their own state Representatives lie to them, and having their nice TV tell them things that scare them. I get it, but educate yourselves, don't be dooped by conservative nut jobs, just because they aren't in office or don't want to progress or truly help the American people. The companies that hire said P.R. firms are the ones that truly benefit from all of this. Huge pharmaceutical companies not having to lose any profit over possible legislation that would harm it. It's so clear why this bill hasn't passed yet. It's not because the conservative democrats feel morally obligated to contest the bill and make sure they get it right. It's because they've been bought by the pharmaceutical and medical insurance lobby groups.

It's simple, go online read the 1200 page bill that states what it intends to do, and what that bill really is for. That's all there is to it, go and educate yourselves instead of getting up and yelling nonsense at the people who are trying to educate you. And if you want to complain about not having time to read that, well then you have no fucking right to bitch about it. This entire conservative movement against health care reform has nothing to do with standing up for the people of this country and everything to do with keeping the people powerless and helpless. We are the only developed nation without a national health care plan. Doesn't that seem a little odd? Doesn't it seem like we're the only developed nation that is regressed..while every other country keeps progressing? Don't you think that ignorant thinking from the leaders we elect has something to do with that? Don't you think it's time we caught up with the rest of the world, and started progressing ourselves and give our people a better quality of life? I do, and i hope the rest of you wake the fuck up, but knowing Americans as i do, i really can't see it happening.

Funny People

2009-07-31T12:34:00.001-07:00

I've been a big fan of Judd Apatow ever since The 40 Year Old Virgin, and i like Knocked Up even more, they are comedies while raunchy and hilarous strangely by the end have you feeling genuine emotions about the characters. In a genre that is so often overlooked as people just being goof offs, Apatow has set the standard for comedy in films. Here comes the 3rd movie from Apatow, Funny People. It tells the story of George Simmons(Adam Sandler) who learns of contracting a form of leukimia and is taking a medication that has worked on 8% of it's participants. While going around L.A. to perform standup, George Encounters Ira Wright(Seth Rogen) and hires him to write jokes for him and pretty much be his assistant. Halfway through we learn of the cancer's remission and George's new lease on life.

I'm going to make this statement and you can agree, disagree, think i'm cray or whatever but Funny People is one of the best films of 2009. Unlike the other two directed Apatow films, this one has more heart in it. While still being gut busting hilarious, there are darker themes, real genuine deep emotions for the characters, as well as it's fresh realness. Roger Ebert wrote a review a few days ago and remarked at how real this film is. He hit it right on the head, this film speaks to it's audience, through somber and crushing tones, the thoughts of life ending all so suddenly. These people are your friends, you know their story, you feel their pain and are crushed knowing they don't have long to live.

The opening scenes are remarkable, Sandler gives his best performanc ever, and the perfect nuanced emotions that sweep across his face as he knows he doesn't have much time left. 7 years ago Sandler did his only other serious role in Paul Thomas Anderson's Punch Drunk Love. As good as that performance was, this one topped it. Seth Rogen once again does a very nice job and shows quite a bit of range, showing that he isn't a one trick dog. You feel so much for these characters, and while i am talking all seriously here, it's a very funny movie. It's very well done, it lacks plot holes, strong character development, and you feel pure empathy for George, through his trials, feeling the hoplessness that's displayed across his face. Apatow hit this one out of the park, and i think we'll be seeing this again come Oscar season.

Hey Douchebag, You Don't Know Shit About Movies

2009-07-30T21:31:00.000-07:00

OK, yea i might be biased on the upcoming subject, but i honestly don't care, and I've really had enough of idiotic people spouting off on things they know nothing about. I'm talking about the label of hipster/indie films. OK, you didn't like Juno, or Garden State fine, but any movie that has a main character searching for answers, has a somber tone, or includes acoustic indie music in the trailer doesn't make it anything but a film with those things. Not to mention that said things are not bad to be in films..why would they be? So films like Away We Go, and 500 Days of Summer suffer because of it, people assuming the characters are elitist and smug and thinking they are better than everyone else. Because of some preconceived notion of indie/hipster culture and the shallow people that adopt said look, but not the people who choose to wear that "style" because they like it.

I mean not to mention that the whole idea of boycotting a style of film because of how it looks, i mean is there anything else that screams out ignorance. Yes i am very impartial to these "kinds" of films, they show strong individualistic characters, deep character development, and just a different sort of perspective that you don't get at Transformers 2 or G.I. Joe. I'm really sorry i like my films with substance and relatability with the characters. Seriously fuck off with your bullshit, there isn't any merit behind your empty criticism. Away We Go might be one of the best films of the year, and all you douchbags can do who haven't even seen it is say "oh it looks like Juno, it's another hipster indie flick inspired by little kids who wanna be different". You're an idiot.

I am so sick of people not being able to watch a movie, with a clear mind, giving it a fair chance to just be a good film. No it seems most people need their preconceived notions to be able to survive. Maybe it comes back to people seeing things that are different, and they aren't comfortable seeing that, so they feel the need to tear it down. It's sad really, because it a lot of these "type" of films there is quite a bit of quality. But i can't really blame America, where the highest grossing film of the year so far is about giant robots from space morphing into cars and trying to destroy each other. What happened to substance, character development, a solid script, subtlety, and inspiring storyline?

I guess with big explosions, for most people, you don't need that. It's depressing, coming from something as wonderful as film, such ugliness and malice. I'm exhausted from the lack of vision and open mindedness, I'm sick of all the bullshit and people seeing simply what they want to see. I suppose i can only take pride in the knowledge that I'm right, and the feeling of that knowledge at least lends me some sense of contention.

Book Review: Dearly Devoted Dexter

2009-07-27T20:13:00.000-07:00

We come to a fork in Dexter Morgan's life at the beginning of the 2nd novel of Jeff Lindsay's' series of books. Stemming from Sergeant Doakes suspicion of said charcter he tails Dexter early and often all throughout his day. He finds himself domesticated, unable to roam free into the night sending murderers, child rapists, and serial killers into a panic. But while Dexter grows more fondly into the role of supportive boyfriend and dedicated father figure, a new serial killer is on the prowl. The FBI is brought in but soon their men start disappearing, as it becomes clear that the new serial killer has a past history with Sergeant Doakes.

This was just as good as the original, you can pick if you want about what storyline you liked better, but once again Lindsay is in top form. He writes his character very well, disciplined and molded into a likable, articulate, and morbidly hilarious man. You don't question his morals, because if you were to do so you'd be questioning you own, what you really believe when push comes to shove. You don't question it because you root for Dexter, you want him to get away and be that dark avenger.

Lindsay improves on his character development in this one of the surrounding cast, Deb, Dexter's sister has a bigger role in this novel as does Sergeant Doaks. We dig deeper into Dexter's psyche and find new things, the ability of adaptation. For most of the book everywhere Dexter goes, Doakes follows him, convinced there is something off about the blood spatter analyst. Dexter gets comfortable with the notion of coming home every night to a loving girlfriend and her two children who's company he very much enjoys.

This is a very solid second book, it's right on par with how good the first one was. It isn't better really in any way, but there's nothing wrong with that, considering how excellent the first novel is. The Dexter Series is becoming one of my favorite reads out there. The books are made of some truly exceptional quality and substance.

Standing up to make a statemnt

2009-07-23T17:31:00.000-07:00

I've always fought against intolerance, injustice, and preconceived notions. For the things i thought were really important, things that pass most people by. I am a big believer in the first amendment, it's a great thing to share opinions, beliefs, and general philosophies. So it's when that in doing so, you're arrested, put away out of the public eye so you can't offer another voice to the people. I'm talking about something that happened on July 4th, a young lady(Rebecca Ellen Mckimmie) decided to stand up and voice her opinion in a very brave showing against our government. She burned the American flag in protest and stomped it out in the middle of traffic in Washington D.C. She was arrested for the desecration of an American flag and disturbing the piece.

Now, on the anniversary of the signing of the declaration of independence, in the spirit of that achievement a young woman stood up against what she believed to be wrong. So she was put away, shut up, and quited by those in power. I suppose that's what happens when you attempt to speak the truth, to stand up for what you believe in. You can unload all the empty rhetoric that you want about what a flag is, but doesn't that flag represent our republic and all the rights we are afforded because of that piece of paper signed 243 years ago? The burning and stomping of that flag wasn't disrespectful or even close to being wrong, she was exercising her first amendment right.

Not to mention that burning a flag isn't illegal, and i personally support her fully in her decision to do so. The only way to promote real change is shock and forcing people to take notice of what's going on. Waking people up out of their droning, mediocre lives filled with banality, to the reality of what is going on in our country. But people don't want to be bothered they just want to isolate themselves. They just want to go to their jobs, come home to their nice home, and nice things..and live a nice isolated life. The only way to promote real change is within ourselves as informed citizens. Yes the act of burning a flag was going to get a lot of attention, but that's the point, this young woman stood up and said enough, she made a statement.

She's in the right here, i don't care how much red, white, and blue that you bleed. Her actions are nothing but American in the sense that she used her first amendment right to speak her mind. She didn't do anything illegal, she broke no laws, no matter how you want to see it she's in the right in this. I really can't stand that whole pro American propagandist rhetoric, and what does that mean...disliking anyone that doesn't fit into your slim scope of what an American should look and act like. I'm proud that there are still people out there with the courage and guts to stand up for what is right. Thanks Rebecca for being courageous for standing up for your beliefs, standing up and making a statement, no matter the consequence.

Darkly Dreaming Dexter

2009-07-19T18:05:00.000-07:00

The title is almost poetic, beautiful, brooding, and artistic, though should these be the words used when describing a serial killer? I say..why not? The title character Dexter is a likable wolf in sheep's clothing, by day a boring, nice, non threatening blood spatter analyst for the Miami metro police department. By night a hunter, stalking his prey through the urban jungle of Miami, following his foster father's instructions or as Dexter refers to it his code, on how to avoid being caught. Through all of his daily human interactions Dexter goes through the motions, doing his very best to seem normal and so very very boring. No one would expect this button up, happy go lucky, hard working lab technician of hurting a fly much less slaughtering human beings. Some of you might know Dexter from the Showtime series "Dexter" which is a show entering it's fourth season that is a spin off of the book series, this being the first.

Darkly Dreaming Dexter is written very well, Jeff Lindsay very smoothly flows in story, substance, and descriptive detail. All of it is written in the first person perspective, Dexter suffers from being truly alone. His girlfriend, his sister, his colleagues at work, they all see the shell, the fake veneer, they only see what he shows them. An extremely well crafted character, Dexter struggles with not having anyone really know who he is. A character that is extremely intelligent, cunning, witty, and charming who is always searching for the answers he seeks. The words flow so eloquently and every word, adds it's own nuance and character to the story.

I can say that this is one of my favorite books, Lindsay is very talented with his words, his crafting of his characters and molding the surroundings to fit perfectly to those characters. Blending is so important in the storytelling process and Jeff Lindsay makes it look so easy. I loved every dark joke, every hint of black comedy, and every clever reference that i got. The book itself is a complete work, sharp and enticing. Nearing the end i was gripping the book, leaving me wanting more. It's been quite a long time since actually feeling a thirst from a novel. Darkly Dreaming Dexter is highly satirical, dramatic, and a knockout.

coming to terms with myself.

2009-07-15T12:31:00.000-07:00

I've always had a tough time getting an honest grasp on myself. Asking those who dislike me usually distort that reality to the negative, those who happen to enjoy my company usually distort that reality to the positive. I have so much knowledge on a few things, most of them don't hold any worldly importance. The different, odd, and unusual has always facinated me, and when attacked or criticized i have felt the need to defend it. I really can't stand the notion that because something is different or unusual that it should scare you. I hate that, and you see news anchors and world leaders try and use that to their advantage, to scare their populace. Bu this entry isn't political..it's about me, because frankly, what else do i really have? I have an astute amount of knowledge when it comes to films, the nfl, pop culture, cars, and a lot of general useless information. Everyone is told that they are special and have a special skill. I don't know if i believe that, but if i did, i guess mine would be the ability to hold massive amounts of useless information.

There have only been a few people i've met in my life that i can say i've admired or related to. Most are people i've met who exude intelligence, tolerance, understanding, open mindedness, and self confidence. These are all qualities that i myself exude through my own personality, because that's who i am. But is this because it's who i want to be, and really aren't we all that? Aren't we the people we invision that we are..isn't that what a personality is? It's certainly something to think about.

I've learned something as i've become more and more aware of things and their existence in this world. That if you're an open minded thinker as i am, you dig deeper and deeper through the recesses of your mind. Digging through the possibilities of our human existence and how truly infinite the universe is in our minds. All these questions about where we come from and what the purpose of life is, and you come to a final wall, and you realize everything once you hit that wall. It's that you can't even begin to know most of the answers to all these questions.

It's great to be an itellectual, but it can also be extremely painful, especially when all you do is think and think, lamenting about the answers you'll never recieve. But it's ok, because this life is about more than that, it's a great thing to search and expand your mind for these unreachable answers, but you can't let it run your life. Being a person such as this, it has effected me, and im slowly learning how to balance my reality with the unknown. Connecting with other people has always been hard for me, i'm growing in a generation of instant gratification and a substance-less society. It's hard trying to meet people who share the same values as i do, it's becomming a more and more isolated world, so don't blame me for feeling a little hopeless.

I think about the possibility of being alone for the rest of my life, and honestly it's not so bad. I consider myself to be more interesting than most people anyway. I value myself way too much to not be with someone who is equal to myself. I know that might sound self centered and ego centric, but i just know who i am. It's that easy, i know who i am so i know what i really want. Sometimes i feel a little too old for my age, hopefully i can learn to enjoy life more, not focus so much on all the crap that's in it. That's really all there is, enjoy your life as much as you can, and as long as you can. Fuck everything else, because it doesn't really matter.

It's July, Asshole

2009-07-08T22:07:00.000-07:00

You know i like my American holidays, all of the freedoms I'm afforded from the sacrifices of men that have went before me. But one thing i won't stand for is good old fashioned American ignorance, stupidity, and complete lack of accountability. Anytime that we bomb someone or ensure a coup on an unsuspecting country, there isn't one hint of..oh did we do the right thing there? Any question of doubting our actions? No there isn't any, because we're America, we're always in the right...we're the self righteous, close minded, ignorant nation that takes away other human beings rights. But they aren't Americans, so it doesn't matter does it? Out of sight is out of mind right? It's fucking disgusting. I know what the young republican reading this must think, "if you don't like it you can leave" or "our soldiers died for your right to rag on our country" well it also says in the constitution to overthrow the government when it doesn't work anymore. But in doing so I'm sure the government would throw me in jail for taking part in anarchist behavior.

I guess it's not perfect, i love my country, but in doing so don't i have the right to stand up and say what's wrong with it, shouldn't we want to be better? Criticism doesn't come without merit, and certainly comes with it's very understandable and justified reasons. The actions of our last administration were it any other country would be the equivalent of war crimes and would be tried accordingly. But it's looked past by most of our ignorant citizens...because hey we're America. But the truth is, most people don't care, most people just want to be left alone...and live their little secluded lives, but that is another topic for another day.

It really comes down to how people see our country, we're far from perfect and there is much to work on. Especially the idea that we're always right, that we're the standard. The main problem stems from these religious right nut jobs promoting their superior "moral" standards. Wow, fucking ridiculous i don't think i have to give you all the details. But it serves as an extremely glib, ignorant thought process that makes the rest of the world look at us, with extreme dislike. To be honest, it's easy to see why the rest of the world hate us. I love my country, and i want it to be better, i want there to be open mindedness and tolerance of everything that is different. I'm sick and tired of the same old bullshit where you have these nut jobs that warn against anything that might take the power away from the religious right.

I sound terrible saying that the way these people think is wrong, it's just an opinion, I'm not right..these are just my views..but i believe in them so much, i view them as fact. I'd like to work together in the future to build a better America, but that takes awareness. And I'm not sure that is something that is possible in our society. The 4th of July just passed, and this was a country that was built on every man is created equal as well as the freedom of oppression. So why don't we have equal rights after 233 years? Really America? For that it seems that we're like the biggest hypocrite country out there. But that's just me, i want us to be better. I just don't know if it's possible.

Away We Go

2009-06-29T11:55:00.000-07:00

Now it can be said that i have a penchant for Indie films, i usually like all that i see, and once in awhile one breaks through the mold of the genre to become something more. I believe i found that when viewing Away We Go. Sam Mendes's newest film, something different for the director of American Beauty and Revolutionary Road. Burt and Verona are a quirky pregnant couple searching for the best place to raise their child, so we follow them as they travel around the country. No big over the top drama scenes or soap opera theatrics just real life, something that is sorely lacking in today's films. They visit with old friends and relatives, trying to get a feel for what it would be like living in that environment.

John Krasinski stars as Burt a fully bearded mid 30's insurance agent is very charming and extremely effective at being comically lovable. Though it needs to be stated that Krasinski shows a great deal of depth with his character, physically showing with his face the confusion and worrisome quality that comes with becoming a parent. The unsureness of realizing so many things could happen and that ultimately you have control over so little. Maya Rudolph plays Verona and she does it very convincingly. She seems to be so steady even though she's dealing with a 6 month pregnancy, willed to be strong. The couple throughout the entire movie has their doubts. Doubts about raising their child, and doubts about how it will all turn out, doubts about the partner staying in the future and afraid that stress will change them.

The themes seen here are so real, they strike to the heart of every parent, of every couple soon to be parents. It shows that despite life being unfair and so many things going against you, you just have to ride it out and see everything through. This film deeply moved me, it went beyond a genre to show love, understanding, compassion, selflessness. There are many tender, touching, scenes throughout the film and the two main actors show a wonderful chemistry on screen. This is a very warm hearted film and one that will be one of my personal favorite for a long time.

Pygmy - A book review

2009-06-28T20:43:00.000-07:00

This is a new one for me, a book review, my first one. Pygmy the 10th novel by Chuck Palahniuk most well known for Fight Club, rewards you for having patience, that's for sure. The plot is as follows: A gang of adolescent terrorists trained by an unspecified totalitarian state infiltrate America as foreign exchange students. Their mission: to bring the nation to its knees through Operation Havoc, an act of mass destruction disguised as a science project. Narrated by skinny 13-year-old Pygmy, the propulsive plot deconstructs American fixtures, among them church (religion propaganda distribution outlet), spelling bees (forced battle to list English alphabet letters) and TV news reporters. So it's a bit of a confusing plot, though once you're inside the story it's easy enough to navigate.

It's easy to see from the start of the novel that this isn't for everyone, the entire novel is written in very poor English, through the words of pygmy the agent from which the point of view is through. It's quite original in the way the story is told and how Palahniuk expresses the main characters emotions, feelings, and reasoning for doing the things he does. A lot of the novel is written satirically, a comical way of looking at our society, how we interact with one another and how situations make us react. Much of the observations of Pygmy are him slamming our culture which i could very easily agree with, or the members of the community making outlandish over the top ignorant statements about the foreign exchange students and how godless they are. These are more of the satirical comment, knowing that not everyone in the Midwest is that backwards.

I can see why this would hit some people the wrong way, but for me Palahniuk struck gold with this innovative, original, genuinely smart take on American culture. If you can get past the way the book is written and see it for it's wit and smarts you'll really value this novel. In my opinion it just looks at mid western American culture and smacks the shit out of it, i don't know if there was anything i enjoyed more.

Fight Club - A Novel by Chuck Palahniuk

2009-06-24T21:22:00.000-07:00

i won't go into detail of a review, i'm just going to put in my two favorite excerpts and here they are.

" It was at fight club that Tyler invented Project Mayhem.

I tagged a first-timer one night at fight club. that Saturday night, a young guy with an angel's face came to his first fight club, and i tagged him for a fight. That's the rule. If it's your first night in fight club, you have to fight. I knew that so i tagged him because of the insomnia was on again, and i was in a mood to destroy something beautiful. What Tyler says about being the crap and the slaves of history, that's how i felt. I wanted to destroy everything beautiful I'd never have. Burn the amazon rain forests. Pump chlorofluorocarbons straight up to gobble the ozone. Open the dump valves on supertankers and uncap offshore oil wells. I wanted to kill all the fish i couldn't afford to eat, and smother the French beaches I'd never see. I wanted the whole world to hit bottom. Pounding that kid, i really wanted to put a bullet between the eyes of every endangered panda that wouldn't screw to save it's species and every whale or dolphin that gave up and ran itself aground. I wanted to breathe smoke. Birds and deer are a silly luxury, and all the fish should be floating. I wanted to burn the Louvre. I'd do the Elgin Marbles with a sledgehammer and wipe my ass with the Mona Lisa. This is my world, now. This is my world, my world, and those ancient people are dead."

"I've met God across his long walnut desk with his diplomas hanging on the wall behind him, and God asks me, "Why?" Why did i cause so much pain? Didn't i realize that each of us is a sacred, unique snowflake of special unique specialness? Can't i see how we're all manifestations of love? I look at God behind his desk, taking notes on a pad, but God's got this all wrong. We are not special. We are not crap or trash, either, We just are. We just are, and what happens just happens. And God Says, " No, that's not right" Yeah. Well. Whatever. You can't teach God anything."

oh this is everything and nothing that it should or shouldn't be

2009-06-23T20:47:00.000-07:00

You know, philosophy is really interesting but to let it weigh on your mind is extremely exhausting. Luckily i only think about it a few times each day, and then again when discussing certain topics with certain individuals. So that's just something i like at the moment.

I'm looking for a job in the Sunbury, Williamsport area, it's not fun really at all.

I miss some people, and it's not easy, especially going through it alone, since my friends in the state are still pretty far away, 2 hours to be exact.

As much as i like the people i've had in my life, i think about it and think about it and come to the conclusion that i'm ultimately better off alone.
I came to this conclusion because, it's what i know, it's what i'm good at. It seems my deep level of thought causes me to not know how to be. How to relate to my surrounding individuals past what is on the surface. I can't get anywhere with anyone because there's a certain point i get to that i just get so excited i can't handle it.

I mean what is that? I can't control my happiness to know someone worth value is into me? God im such a fucking basket case, i am so together to most people and in many aspects to myself i am. It's just i feel i can't do romantics, and yea those of you out there saying it'll come, it'll come, i hope so. I hope it's not a case of me being impatient, which it very well could be, i just hope that i have the ablity to be better in the future.

I might have to take out my snakebites pretty soon, i'll have to see how well the retainers feel and look etc. Dumb shit.

Oh and to let you know, everytime i look at the stars, i think of you...and i can smile and have a little peace in my heart.

I've been having some trouble lately

2009-06-15T21:30:00.000-07:00

I don't know why i had not noticed this before, but i have come to something of a realization. I just got back to my home state of Pennsylvania late Friday night. It actually didn't hit me until a few days later. I have moved back and forth from Washington state and Pennsylvania over the past 3 years, when i'm in one place the other doesn't exist. Not in reality, of course, but in my mind while im in one, the other ceases to exist or exist to a lesser degree. I guess this is normal considering i'm in that one place and not the other, but it's almost if i can just easily forget about it. But not this time, i can't let myself forget about her. I could almost manage it if i didn't love her, or if she wasn't so incredible. I could act selfishly, focus on school, bettering myself, getting that degree and making a life for myself. But every time i think of her, it's too much and a wave of sadness washes over me.

I sink down into my chair, let my face fall into my hands and at times out loud say what have i done?

There's a goddamn hangnail on my left index finger and it's driving me insane, what's the point of that really? As i think about it more and more i see there not being a point to this existence, this life. But all the more reason to enjoy it as much as i can because, i only have a certain time to live it. I started reading fight club recently, i've always really enjoyed the film, but the book itself reads like a revolutionaries manuel guide to self realization way beyond philosophy or existentialism. But as much as i could or will grow, i won't get over her, i don't know if she'll ever read this, or what impact i had on her. These feelings, these emotions don't matter, they matter to me of course but in the grand scheme of things they will surely dissapate like a days sun beaming down, shining brightly then slowly fading away into the night.

I've known this girl for almost two years, i'd like to believe we'll stay close yet knowing how life works, i just don't see it happening. I'm so happy for her, where she is at in her life, and maybe in the big picture i was just a distraction, an illusory object to detour from the "right" path. She is someone that has been a better and truer friend than anyone i could ever hope to meet. A soul so pure and genuine, someone that immediately i had the feeling was too good for my own. Something so good cannot last of course, and i am sorry that i could not spend more time with her. I hope to see her again many times, but how many times will that be? I am eternaly grateful for our friendship, and i will always be. But i must honestly ask myself, is it enough? I think that it must, and being someone who is used to sacrifice and not getting what they want, i can do that. I can be that guy, again. Sometimes you have to live with the fact that sometimes you can't get the things that you want in life, even if they are things that you would do anything to aquire. Oh well, everyone has to have that person that got away.

Fuck

2009-06-15T21:20:00.000-07:00

Disclaimer: the following is a viewpoint, not mine to be clear, just one and i am sharing that view point maybe only to insight an extreme, but the hopes that some will see it as something more.

Fuck Washington

Fuck Pennsylvania

Fuck the United States of America

Fuck the world

Fuck You

Fuck Rob Motto

Fuck our entire existence

Fuck the hippies and their peace loving bullshit

Fuck the conservatives and their pre 1970's cleaver beaver loving non existence

Fuck the bleeding heart liberals and their non stop whining about the world's problems

Fuck politicians and their never ending lies to we the people

Fuck my ex room-ate who nickel and dime'd me for 300 dollars on things that didn't need repairs

Fuck all you scene faggots who really only care about how you look or who you're going to fuck tonight

Fuck middle class america and all the useless bullshit you care about

Fuck everyone who's ever tried to reach out to me, don't waste your time

Fuck our entire existence and the knowledge that there is nothing after this, and that life doesn't have a point.

Fuck it all because none of it matters.

Goodbye Young Tutor, You've Now Outgrown Me

2009-06-09T00:28:00.000-07:00

A lot has happened since my last entry, you could say that I've really grown a lot since then. This day has slowly but surely crept up, i can't stop it from coming and as hard as i try it seems i can't even slow it down any. I make my 2,600 mile trek the day after tomorrow and it's certainly met with some anxiety. I have a best friend here, her name is Lisa, and it's getting harder and harder wrapping my head around not having her in my immediate life. She's been there with guidance, and honesty, truth, and genuine understanding. She's the greatest friend I've known, and it deeply saddens me that I'm leaving her behind. But such is life dear friends, life is growing, life is sadness, life is making the hard decisions especially when you don't want to. I've learned all of this, learned that making tough decisions is what being an adult is all about. I have to leave behind the best person I've ever known because it's what's best for me. I've always been a pretty selfless guy when it comes to my friends, i want her to be in my life, i want her there to share things with, moments and times to look back and reflect on.

Looking toward the future i can't see any answers, though I'm sure I'm not really supposed to. This is a big event in my life, and i feel the need to hold onto these last few days of my life here in Washington. I don't know when I'll see Lisa again, or worse yet afraid that i might never see her again. She is someone who has undoubtedly been the most important in my life over the past 2 years, i just can't let go of that. I can't imagine how much I'll miss her, her words, her thoughts, the way she moves and functions. When you have a real friend you come to appreciate every little thing about them that makes them who they are. I will miss my dear friend so very very much, i am so thankful for every moment that i have had with her, i could only hope that you all have a friend like her in your life sometime.

I write this last paragraph heavy hearted, not wanting to do what i am about to do, moving on, change. Why is change so scary? Why do we fear what is new to us, or an occasion that is different than what we've come to know? I really don't know the answers, but I'm optimistic that things will work out. That my friend and i will stay that way, and our friendship will only grow. That i will go to school, get my degree, and meet some worthwhile people along the way. I have all the hope in the world, and now I've got to put it into action. I've been in Washington for 21 months, i haven't seen some friends in quite awhile and my mother for a year. Change is good, i just wish i didn't have to say goodbye to the person who's made me into a better person, i can never thank you enough for all that you've done. Thank you, I'll be on my way now, on my way to a future that is brimming, so I'll just go seize it.

The Girlfriend Experience Review

2009-05-19T16:54:00.000-07:00

The Girlfriend Experience is the newest film from longtime director Steven Soderbergh. The story follows a high class call girl in New York City as she meets with her various clients as well as showing her boyfriend and what his life is like as a personal trainer. The film takes place about a month before this past years presidential election, and is a well discussed subject between the various characters as well as the economic downturn. The backdrop proves effective and relevant to the audience as we are still experiencing those issues today. Chelsie the call girl is played by newcomer Sasha Grey who is best known in the adult entertainment industry and is sort of perfect to play the part, but don't misread what I'm saying, the part requires a good amount of acting chops. We follow her interactions with all of her clients, along with her diary that she keeps full of all the details of her dates. Inside of these details are the events of the date, what they did together, what she wore, and how everything effected the client. The film moves along a non linear timeline and it's very realistic inside of the screen you're viewing.

For all the controversy surrounding Grey's other career, she gives a very honest, genuine, and very pure performance as a high class, sophisticated call girl. It surprised me to be honest, and that really doesn't happen that often in reviewing films. Conflicts arise as Chelsie has to come to terms with developing intimate feelings for one of her clients. A new girl on the scene makes Chelsie feel uncomfortable, though in a scene her boyfriend comforts her as he says "there will always be new girls, but you are the best at what you do". Grey gives the character charm, class, and distinct variety as she has to become whoever the client wants her to be. A lot of praise should be given but can't be seen blindly, for a lot of it is in subtleties and quiet hard to notice nuances that she brings to the character. We see the humanity of Chelsea near the end, and it's quite endearing, and quite heartbreaking.
The themes here are a little deeper than they might appear, a working girl who protects herself from feeling anything, struggles against what her emotions are telling her. But when she finally feels something, she doesn't know what to do, also conflicting with her current relationship with her boyfriend. Slowly but surely the chinks appear in her tough armor, she becomes more and more susceptible to her feelings. The film is extremely well shot, the cinematography is gorgeous, and you feel New York City around you as the film moves seamlessly from scene to scene.

This film isn't for everyone, and i don't expect it to be widely popular or a mainstream success, it's an indie film that is dialog driven. If you don't like to think and observe, then this isn't for you, but that's what is done in this film. You sit back and watch these people, nearly leaping off the screen they are so real, you feel something for Chelsea despite of her actions. This really for me is film making at it's most pure, and honest. This film will fly under a lot of radars and by most won't be seen as what it truly is. But that doesn't diminish how genuinely honest it is, and how well made a film it is.

How Do We Get Back Home?

2009-05-17T22:25:00.001-07:00

Back in 2007 i had returned home to my house in Pennsylvania after my first venture out into the real world, only to find what was once my home, had turned into just a house. I guess i never really paid much attention to that saying you can never go home again. But it really hit a nerve with me, it was a very strange time for me. There wasn't a lot i could ever count on in my life but one thing i thought i knew for certain was my home. It was there in my mind while i was away, but all of a sudden as i walked through the front door, it all melted away, like some lucid dream. I have struggled with the idea ever since, what makes a home? It's a location obviously, but does that location really ever exist physically? Or is it just something we decide in our minds, a place that epitomizes comfortability and warmth. I really don't know, and now on the verge of going back, i really don't know what to think or even how to feel.

The Idea of family to me was always a little iffy, these people are supposed to love you and accept you, your siblings are supposed to be supportive and offer kind words. I guess it was just a little tough for me growing up, i had everything i needed, but looking back i can't remember my childhood which explains a lot. My mom has always been super supportive and open minded, I'm very grateful for that. My dad left when i was 6, and I've only seen him a handful of times since then, i don't resent him for it, he did what he had to. My two brothers are distant relatives at best, both are pretty introverted and keep to themselves. I guess with all of that it's easy to see why i might not be too keen on the nuclear family, having to reidentify what that word means to me, and making it work into my life.

I am 24 days away from making that 2,600 mile journey back to a place i know well, and at the same time have an unfamilar feeling about. It's only something that can be seen through your own eyes and felt by your own emotions. It's quite shocking and unerving, like you've lost something you feel you might never get back. I try my best to be in control of my thoughts, emotions, and my life in general, but somethings i really can't control. You come to terms with these things, because you can't control them and you learn to accept them. I've found that you need to take things as they come, that you can't do the "right" thing all the time, and save everyone who's in trouble. I feel like I've grown leaps and bounds since I've left home, but what does that mean? When looking for some of my own answers it seems that at times it only creates more questions. I can only take a day at a time and make the best decision possible with the information that is available to me. Whatever happens hopefully someday i can have piece of mind to settle these unanswered questions that vex me so.

Star Trek Review

2009-05-09T11:39:00.001-07:00

Star Trek is a film that has been talked about endlessly by film pundits and movie buffs alike for the past couple of years. J. J. Abrams who is best known for his hit series Lost, directs here and had quite the obstacle to overcome, staying true to the fan base while making it an appealing mainstream movie. The story is a pretty simple concept, it's an origins story of James T. Kirk and Spock in their days at the academy. A renegade Romulan named Nero played here by Eric Bana, is the villain. Most of the main characters if not all, are here in supporting roles Sulu, Scottie, Dr. Mccoy, Cheov, and Uhura. The film works around the two main characters of Kirk and Spock working through disagreements, disputes, and their strong personalities to work together through the adversity that faces them. This film will face assured scrutiny from all of the die hard Trekkie's, but i suppose when making an adaptation of an original source material that's going to inevitably happen.

Now down to the actual review, honestly coming out of the theatre i was taken aback at how good this film was. The acting of Chris Pine, playing Kirk, and Zachary Quinto, who was Spock, was very spot on and thorough. I really liked Pine's take on Kirk as a decisive and confident young officer. Quinto did just a phenomenal job with Spock's stoic nature with letting just a hint of emotion come over his face, showing his human side, it was very subtle but regardless, very well done. The storyline was very neat and organized, the camera work was excellent as were the special effects. The character development on screen between the two main characters was quite riveting and they did a wonderful job bringing that to life. But out of all of it there was something else that Abrams was able to capture that i didn't see coming. In the opening 15 minutes there is a quite emotional scene that felt so very real, that came off very touching and heartfelt. Then there are moments between Spock and Uhura that are very tender, real, emotionally gripping scenes that capture your attention.

The only real downside or negative i had to this film was that the Villain was a little over the top, his back story wasn't as deep as the other main characters and lacked charisma. I just didn't really care, though i think the makeup was phenomenal on Eric Bana and for what he was did a nice job with the role. Outside of that Star Trek is a very well made film, don't talk about when it comes to Sci-Fi movies or Star Trek movies, just talking about it as a film it is a very good one. I don't have a lot of perspective to compare it to the show, and i don't want to, but to me this was a very nice surprise. They hit the nail right on the head, with this film they got nearly everything right, and it's easy to see it's a slam dunk. I think that Star Trek will come close to capturing what the dark knight did almost a year ago. A mainstream film that entertains and enthralls a wide audience while having substance and quality film making to appeal to the critics. It's hard not to point this out as maybe the best film of the year so far. It gave me hope that maybe in the future summer movie season will be a thought of happiness instead of one of despair.

Free Falling

2009-05-06T16:21:00.000-07:00

I’m falling from the sky, free falling towards the earth through clouds and the deep black night sky. The stars burn a hole into my back as they deceive me with their beauty. Long have they escaped me, and this being the last glance I would have at them, never have they looked more miraculous or translucent. I turn back to my freefall and I see an oncoming plane below me, it’s red light flashing on it’s tail, it’s elegant shape and silver paint sparkle in the moonlight. Then passing the plane below seeing the people resting comfortably in their cabin, thinking of what they might be dreaming. Thinking of what their lives are like, are they loved, are they happy, where are they going, and who are they? Maybe it's folly to think such things, especially when plunging to your death. Passing through a series of misty, transparent clouds I see city lights below, and the skyscrapers look like miniatures, so small that I could pick them up with my own two hands. My skin has gone numb, now nearing a purplish color, the tears have gone and my eyes are dried out, and all I can do is just enjoy these last few fleeting moments of my life. It seems that most lives are spent taking important moments, people, and situations for granted, so I held onto this thought as long as I could because it's all I have left. As I came closer to the ground I held onto the thoughts of loved ones, wonderful moments, and times spent at my most happiest. I had past several skyscrapers and it was only a matter of time before I met my demise, so I glanced once more at the deep, dark, shining, night sky. That was my last moment, basking in the beauty of eternal blackness. Ten seconds later my body stopped it's fall and as I lay there, my body embedded into a cop car, a smile was on my face. A splattered corpse , with blood, guts, and bones spread over the hood. Though I was dead, my consciousness was still alive, and I had too many questions that needed answers.

Review: Waking Life

2009-05-03T18:59:00.001-07:00

Waking Life is a rotoscope animated film from director Richard Linklater, it was released back in 2001. We follow the main character through multiple scenes with different people sharing stories, and philosophical points of view. The plot can't be explained too much more than that, it is simply what it seems at face value, many people sharing their own thoughts on life, the after life, and what is.The film itself lets our minds accept that everything is possible and that anything can be real. I don't know if it's going too far to say that it's an acquired taste, but many don't enjoy trippy effects and this one has a lot of that. It's certainly a thinkers film, and for the creative mind, so i don't know if it's something that has been well received considering that i hadn't heard of it until recommended by a friend.

There isn't a strong plot or over the top incredible acting, but the film doesn't require it, and in that sense it's a first for me. It really conjures up a thought provoking premise and opens your mind to what is possible. In the modern state of what a film is, Waking Life does fall short. There are no gigantic explosions, or shallow characters here, and god forbid it not having any shameless product placement. It exceeds almost every film I've seen when it comes to artistic integrity, creative ambitiousness, and originality. I was so dumbfounded by how effective this film was, it broke down walls of what a film could be and brought me back and let me remember the pureness of what film is. I don't know if all the actors involved are just played themselves or make it so believable that the people shown before you are the characters that were intended to be there. That in of itself is philosophical and makes me chuckle as i type it.

Much of the film if not all of it(it can be argued) is just one big lucid dream of the main character, most of it to question what is possible and broad open minded thinking. It's not often that i am truly taken aback by a film in the ideas it puts forward, by how original it is in it's context and as a whole, by it's overall message. I won't go on to say that it's mind blowing but for me it certainly teeters on the edge of it. I really, truly loved everything this film was, it's truly exceptional and maybe one of my favorite films that I've ever seen. I can't express enough how deeply thought provoking Waking Life really is, and it's the type of thinking that I've held so close to myself for what seems to be the longest time. This film isn't for everyone, and maybe not even for most people but for what it is, it's truly wonderful.

Someone needs to say this, so i guess i'll be the one

2009-04-29T01:09:00.001-07:00

I've been listening to a lot of different music lately, mostly of the hardcore/metal variety, a genre that i usually have stayed away from. Mostly it's been because i couldn't stand vocals that weren't pleasant to listen to, lately I've liked how the music itself has made me feel. I'm a writer, so i love words and words fitting in perfectly with rhyme and melody really has been my cup of tea. But I've just been listening to things outside of my range lately, and it's great, broadening my horizons, but that is not what this entry is really about. Looking into this genre and many others it seems that electronica is playing a very big part in music in general today. I remember my first electric sounding band being the postal service, and that was only 4 years ago. But what was once a little known, interesting, niche sound has really blown up over the past few years, once again this isn't my problem. It seems that what once started out as something original, creative, and genuine has turned into your everyman throwing sounds together with badly played instruments to what they call music.

Don't get me wrong i love creativeness, originality, and artistic integrity, and it's because i love these things that i am writing this. I don't quite know what to call these bands that throw electronica, random screams, and off beat melodies together in a mixer and call it music. But the word I'll use here is garbage, because in my artistic opinion that's what these bands produce. Shallow, empty vessels to fuel the unintelligent and mind controlled youth and adults that fill out our society. I'm not an artist, i can't play an instrument, i have the greatest amount of respect for the people that are truly musicians. But this is disgusting, and maybe it's been like this for awhile and i just haven't caught on. It's not just this hybrid genre that I'm speaking of, i mean 80% of the music you hear on the mainstream radio fits into this category as well. I respect a persons choice to listen to what they will, but most of it is just terrible music.

Thinking about it honestly makes me want to throw up, the fact that there is no artistic integrity left in mainstream music, that it is purely to make profit and entertain the mindless. It seems that you can get by with a vague song about anything as long as you look a certain way, or sound a certain way, preferably from the streets or promiscuous. There's no value there, no genuine earnestness or honesty. It's fucking disgusting, maybe I'm too late, maybe it doesn't matter, because there are creative, musically integrity filled artists out there, making music for the pure sake of loving it. It's all around me, and i am no music buff or elitist, but i know bad music when i hear it, or just chose not to.

I hate to compare this to everything else that i see going on in my life, but i stopped myself and asked why more people don't like quality, creative, and different music, why the mainstream is so awful. It connects with everything else, the same reason people are brought in by religion and terrible films, and now awful music. They don't want to think for themselves, they don't want to be bothered with examining quality work, socially relevant ideas and thoughts, introspective pieces on human nature and human relationships. No, they just want something that they don't have to think about and can bounce up and down to. Or to see explode on screen and have lots of people die, or believe that they've been saved by our lord Jesus Christ.

I know that i am not alone in this, the need to stand up and say "Shut the fuck up" to all the verbal garbage that comes out of these "artists". It's beyond liking and disliking something, it's not a matter of opinion anymore. I honestly feel that it's toxic waste poisoning people's minds, maybe i am taking it a little far, but it's how i feel. I fucking hate that something so pure, and wonderful can be manipulated into a profit and to taken advantage of. I suppose i should be happy that there are those out there still making quality and creative work, at least i have that. It all comes back to money i suppose and how everything revolves around it. It makes me sad and angry at the same time that something so wonderful has turned into what it has. That these people who have their lyrics written for them go out and sell millions of records to people who when asked why they like them say "it has a good beat". That's it, there's no use trying to save this one, let people like shitty things. It's good to know i'm in the minority, then there's just more for me to appreciate.

I hate the NFL draft

2009-04-26T10:05:00.000-07:00

Right after the Super Bowl every single year, all of the pundits, big and small, come out of the wood work and submit an NFL mock draft. What is a mock draft you might ask, if you really care at all because it really is pointless. It's exactly what it sounds like a prediction of who will select who in late April when the NFL draft is held. Yes for exactly 3 months every single "expert" including thousands of bloggers put out multiple versions of a mock draft per week. The really sad thing is that most of them get paid to talk/write about it. Scouting out 250 players on their strengths, weaknesses, 40 times, vertical jump, bench press, and running drills. Talking about team needs, the best player available, trading up, trading down, what a big mistake some team made by not taking the guy some "expert" thought they should have. Coaches and General Managers are scrutinized and criticized to no end because they did not select the player these pundits thought they should have, and all of this mind you 4 months before they even see a semi-professional game setting.

Now, don't get me wrong i love the NFL it's in my opinion the best sport in this country, the most exciting, and unpredictable. But the NFL draft is so ridiculous, we're going to judge all these players based on their physical attributes and then comes how they played in college. The NFL scouting combine which takes place in late February, is an equal judge toady to the quality of the play for the player in college. Tell me how that makes any sense, so perform well in the combine without really putting up any numbers in college and you're looking at a 3rd round selection, just because that team love your speed. So these jokers spend 3 months, getting paid mind you, to sit and talk about who's great, who's a bust, who's a surprise, really? They sit around and talk about the posibilities of a player and the hypotheticals. All because the NBA playoffs aren't enough to talk about and baseball is slowly dying?

I truly dislike picking on the NFL because it's a classy organazation and one that handles itself well, but i have to put my foot down here. Three months of analysis on 250 players just to talk about hypotheticals? It's really absurd and then the teams are judged on their picks immediately, not a year down the road when a full season is behind the chosen team, right away. The NFL draft is the most publicized, and talked about sports draft of the year. The NBA has 2 rounds with a little over 50 players, MLB's draft isn't even televised, and i really don't know about the NHL. Like i've stated before i love the NFL, but let's turn our logic caps on and see how truly ridiculous all the hoopla really is.

It's very easy to point at an oncoming car from above

2009-04-13T00:38:00.000-07:00

There's been an ongoing situation, internally with me for the past year and a half and it involves two people. I can't really talk about it which is hard, but if you know me, i'm sure you know of what i speak. But getting my head wrapped around everything that has happened, i feel like a pretty shitty person. I can get past all of the moral and ethic bullshit, which in my opinion really comes down to perception and personal opinion, the events we go through shape us into who we are, not some moral righteousness. I can get past being an asshole and discrediting people because they like Twilight or Hannah Montana or even terrible mainstream hip hop. I can even get past the thought that in ways im better than most people because of my social, intellectual, and cultured thoughts, a sort of elitest if you will. I can get past all of it because it's all a matter of other people's opinion, most of which, maybe all of which i could care less about. But it's this on-going situation, where i struggle internally with might to keep seesawing back and forth on. But i knew all along that nothing would happen, and that's what happened. Feelings are just that, and just because you feel you need to do something, doesn't mean you should. I've been there so many times before, where i had to have something or needed to be somewhere, and i just took off, letting my heart lead me to where it longed to be.

I can't escape my past, and i'm not sure i can even steer my future in any sort of direction, though i believe i am in complete control. I am an idealist, i believe that people can be good and come together and accomplish things, i want to believe that all of that is true. Though every time i've stuck my neck out in the open someone always takes a step right onto it. My best friend might be going to jail soon, she might not i really don't know. She's opened my eyes to another world, she's made me a better person, educated me, listened to me, and always adds insight and wisdom to my life. It's a really bogus situation, but hey i bet that cop meets his quota for this month, and that keeps the government running without a hitch. I've never liked cops and now i actually have a reason, nice. I keep coming back to the thought of, that i could have done something to prevent this or etc.

I always do that, i need to be the person who helps another out of trouble, or with a place to stay, a ride somewhere, or a kind word or two. To my friends i try to be everything, i need to be a savior of sorts someone who's there to always make it better. I'd gotten so caught up doing things for people that i lost track of myself, eating, sleeping, living. But when i heard that my best friend had been in jail, i just stopped myself. I said no, she has a boyfriend who loves her very much, he'll handle it, he'll take care of her, and everything sort of came into focus for me. It's not my place to be that for her, even if i never meant anything by it, while it's saddening a bit, it's even more eye opening. This life is gone in the blink of an eye, i can't fathom how everyone else lives their lives, without appreciation for everything that goes into it.

I don't know what's going to happen to me, to her, to any of my other friends, i've thought about my move some more and really came to a realization that it's a brand new chapter in my life. A whole new part of a life unfullfilled and that has yet to be written. Such a wholesome idea is that of accomplishments yet to reach and tasks to be completed. When i think about it i get the biggest wind in my heart of hope and inspiration. It's very similar to the feeling i got when Morgan Freeman's character crossed the border in The Shawshank Redemption, wispering "I Hope". I get sad when i think about who i am leaving behind, what opportunities might be possible, and the eventually things that i will miss out on. But i believe it's for the best, going to school to get a degree in a field that i will be good in, to make a decent paycheck. I have to be honest with myself and admit there isn't anything left for me here anymore, though maybe there never was.

It's at times like that, where thoughts flow into my head of maybe everything is just an illusion, thoughts, beliefs, opinions, crime, war, love, pain, ethics, code. It's just menutia to fill in the gaps of the everyday. I don't know really, it's an interesting conversation i'll have one day with someone more interesting than myself. But what i do know is that i've got some good friends on both coast lines, a good head on my shoulders, understanding, and the hope that tomorrow will be better as well as the capability to make it better.

Adventureland Review

2009-04-04T16:37:00.001-07:00

So i had seen the previews for Adventureland advertised all over for the past couple weeks, looked like it could be funny, an enjoyable time at the movies, so i went. May it be noted that whoever marketed this film did a poor job, though i'm sure it was to get more butts in the seats. Adventureland is being advertised as another "Superbad" the hit comedy a few summers ago, but in reality is so much more. The synopsis is as follows, a self-professedly "funtastic" Pennsylvania amusement park Adventureland, appears to be the bane of recent college graduate's James Brennan's (Jesse Eisenberg) existence. When his family suffers an economic downturn in the middle of the Reagan '80s, James' only summer trip is straight to a minimum wage job manning a game booth. But behind the cotton candy aroma, the grating disco songs and the near-pathological customers, James finds a whole other world of misfit friends, including the alluringly sharp-tongued arcade girl, Em (Kristen Stewart). It's billed as a summer comedy as i said to fill seats and have mainstream appeal, though i thought they should have marketed it as it really is.

As the film progresses there is a wonderful on screen chemistry between Stewart and Eisenberg, and it certainly shows that both of them have serious acting chops. There is a tenderness to the love story here, a subtle feeling only recognized by those who have been in the characters places. As you continue into the story you feel the awkwardness and excitement of being young of really coming into your own for the very first time. I could feel it pulsing through my veins as i watched this film and brought back nostalgia so thick it nearly smacked me in the face. Kristen Stewart gave a wonderful performance as a quick witted, sassy, though home life troubled girl and deserves more credit as a legitimite actress. Don't get me wrong there are some very humerous parts but this is more of a drama comedy, dealing with serious themes. The characters themselves are people i know or have known, some of them fully layered, and so real you could touch them. Ryan Reynolds gives a nice performance as the repair guy at the park, as does Martin Starr as Eisenberg's co worker. Greg Motolla does a wonderful job taking us back to the 80's, the music, the certain ambiance if you could call it that, is wonderfully shot and he deserves some high praise for bringing that to life.

Everything here intertwines very nicely, if you're looking for another gross out comedy you won't find it, rather a lovely, comedic romantic drama, about being young and finding your way.This film for the most part is very intimate, very real in it’s events and moments, a certain sentimental journey for the main character as he grows throughout the film. A very tender, warm, and heartfelt movie is what you’ll find here. I was amazed at how wonderful this film was, a rather excellent pleasent suprise really. If Watchmen hadn't been so darn good, this would be my pick for best film of the year so far. I really loved it, i can honestly say after watching it one time, it's one of my favorites. The themes are so rich and full in detail, the characters you know well, and in the end you find yourself rooting for the ending you've seen hundreds of times before, yet this time it's different.

how can i move toward the future when i keep holding onto the past?

2009-04-03T23:23:00.000-07:00

I've gained a good amount of life experience over the past 3 years, it's been something that has fueled my personal growth tremendously. There was a point right after i turned 17 that i felt out of place, i became more of a introspective person, and started looking for some answers. Over the next 3 years i came to learn that it wasn't where you are, but who you have around you, and what you make of the circumstances give to you. It's always been sort of hard for me to meet people, yes even in school. I can't relate to most people, maybe because i don't look at the world the same, maybe because i don't want the same things or adhere to the same beliefs. The friends i have made have been some of the most wonderful people i've ever had the chance to meet and gotten to know. There's something to be said for self preservation, for having self worth and self appreciation, though it seems to be looked down upon. Though i do have friends, they have their own lives with their own significant others, jobs, so most of the time i have myself to keep company. This won't be very long because i tend to do these introspective pieces more than anything else i write, and really by this point it's a broken record. I'd like to limit them, i just have all this time to make these observations about myself because that's who i spend most of my time with.

I have a very strong feeling that right here, right now i'm really living for the first time and that i'm sort of late to the game so to speak, and i'm 20 years old. It's absurd really, but at the same time i fear getting older, settling down, and losing the passion and fire that i have for my beliefs and thoughts. So at times i can over do it, when it comes to discussions or arguements, i need to fullfill my inner debate champion. But i digress, and step back to see that at the heart of who i am is a pretty sweet guy. That's something i like, and that in time the rest will follow, but i need to voice my passion, my heart even if i go over the top sometimes. I laugh a lot, but i'm certainly not happy, not really. I don't believe in god, i hope there is an afterlife, but there isn't, i don't think anyway. I think that so many of our problems in this world come through the from of religon, but that doesn't mean god(if there is one) supports these awful things. I could accept it if there is a god, but if there is one i can't believe he is a intolerant or unaccepting one. So fuck you right wingers. But, this life is too short for all of that, to hate someone because of what they are, it's so lame, and really so overdone.

If i've learned anything in this life thus far it's that we've all got to survive here on this planet living together, getting along. That it takes all kinds to make it work, i have my biases i will be the first one to admit that. But i also know my faults, and how to fix them, and continuasiouly working on them to make myself a better person. It's an ugly world out there and everyone is just looking out for number one, so look out for yourself first, help later. I complain a lot about The United States Of America, but for all of our faults we're a great country for many, many reasons. At the heart of it all it's me wanting to make this a better place to live, because we can and must do better. Going forward, i'm going to make more of an effort to interact with people..i need to, i've alone for far too long. I've been unfair to people who haven't deserved it, just because i've been hurt in the past, doesen't mean everyone is out to do the same to me. When regarding the past, you just have to let it go.

Vedera, Eric Bowley, and Spokane Washington

2009-03-26T19:54:00.000-07:00

So i had seen that a smaller band that i had enjoyed listening to over the past few years was playing in Spokane this past week, so i got a few tickets and went with a few friends. Vedera is a folk rock band from Kansas City, Mo who has built a very quiet following over the past 4 years. They have toured recently with The All American Rejects, The Fray, and now The Plain White T's. Also on the current tour is electro-pop sextet Danger Radio. Filing into the Knitting Factory i could see already that most of the atendees were 13 year old girls who had come for The Plain White T's, who had amassed a mainstream following the aftermath of "Hey There Delilah". Vedera opened their set very well, though maybe it wasn't the crowd to appreciate their work. All throughout their set the entire band played their instruments nearly to perfection and showed a true skill to their craft. I was personally wow'd by the vocalist Kristen May, i don't know if i've ever heard a vocalist be able to sound better than they have on their own cd. Nearing the end of the songs as the band intensified it's playing, May would match it with her outstanding vocal range. To put it simply, her performance was nothing short of extraordianry, and the drummer Drew Little was excellent as well.

I was a bit dissapointed by the fact that they only played 6 songs, but they played them very well at that. Afterwards i went up to the band, met them, shook hands, let them know i was a fan, i felt as though i was gushing, but that's probably just my self conscience talking. I still felt a little silly, but nothing can really be done about that. While waiting for the band to come out, i was at the merchandise table talking to the guy working it. Just talking away, later i found out that i had been talking to noneother than Eric Bowely, the other member of the acoustic duo The Scene Aesthetic. The other member was the lead singer for Danger Radio, who was also at the venue playing a set. I was just so floored that i had been talking with someone who's music i listen to every day, but really he's just a guy, doing his thing. But i got a picture with him, i was pretty excited, i felt like a girl.

As the Plain White T's were about to come on, i said fuck it, the floor was too crowded, and i didn't really care that much to begin with. I had gotten to meet two artists that i respect very much, got an autographed cd, and couple of pictures, as well as some nice conversation. It was a really nice evening, really satisfying. It also brought me back to really appreciate and cherish music, which i just haven't done in awhile. But it makes me feel so much better, live i guess, it's a whole different animal, in doing so has allowed me to appreciate music as a whole. A really nice, wholesome expierience, that i can reflect on for some time to come.

Connecting Paul Rudd With My Lonliness

2009-03-21T00:32:00.000-07:00

I promise this is going somewhere, and it's not as shallow as it sounds...really. I recently watched two comedies, both were funny and enjoyable, much of what i expected going in. Role Models and I Love You, Man both star one Paul Rudd. Most of you will remember him from any Judd Apatow movie or playing Brian Fantana in the cult hit Anchorman. But as i was walking out of the theater tonight it hit me, is it just a coincidence that the combination of the two characters Rudd plays in these movies are a fair description of my personality. I think that thought is pretty shallow..."oh these two characters sum up who i am" which isn't what i'm saying. But in both movies it's about these guys who are lacking in some way or another, it just so happens that i lack in those areas too. Relatability, it's what makes us like the characters on screen, invested in what happens to them and why we care. So yes it was a very stupid observation on my part, making me think for more than a second about comedy films. But it did bring me to some other thoughts, seeing everyone leave the theater i had the thought that they were all going home to someone that cares. I go to the movie alone and come home alone, and that's fine i suppose.

I got this complaint from an ex-girlfriend a few weeks ago openly asking me "why does it always have to be about you"? I've thought about it quite a bit, kind of racked my brain over feelings and questioning motives and i came to the thought of well why the fuck not? I'm awesome, i love who i am, i don't have anyone..really so why shouldn't i take pride and great care into who i am and what i am? I guess some people see that as being selfish, but i don't have multiple friends, and the ones i do have i might see at most a handful of times in a month. It's like someone trying to make me feel bad for having pride and appreciation for myself. Fuck that man, no i won't go there because it's bullshit, i'm sorry you can't appreciate how awesome i am. Maybe if you learned how to kiss properly things would have worked out. Oh well, that's...that's going off topic, but yea i don't have an appealing personality to most people. People don't like it when you challenge them on things, or push their buttons. I love it, i wish more people would challenge my thoughts and ideas on things.

In this increasingly isolated world we are living in, what's wrong with reaching out and trying to better yourself, to build yourself up? It's viewed as selfish, narcissistic, or arogant, whatever society i'm about done. I can't fathom how other young people live their lives, i don't think i need to sacrifice too much to find someone who could love me for who i am. I'm argumenitive, abrasive, understanding, intelligent, and for the most part a caring individual. I think about these things, really thinking about them and that's the key right there. I think too much, i self analyize myself to death, to the point where i'm stiff for fear of saying or doing the wrong "unacceptable" thing. I stopped caring along time ago, and i go these long periods without being around people in a social setting. I almost forget how to be, how to act, so i usually sit there quietly with a drink, watching the moving pictures on the screen. What am i supposed to say to these people who fill up their social calender with parties and drinking binges? Bah i say, i'm completely isolated most of the time, i have personality i just don't ever want to make the effort.

No one is going to read this i know that, it really is just nice to get my thoughts out in the open. Why shouldn't it be about me, i'm all i have, and that's the honest truth to it. It seems like the girls i'm interested in or at least have dated are these girls who are in a rough patch in their life, or need a crutch or a shoulder to lean on. Whether it's shitty parents, or drugs, legal issues, or no one sees them for who they are, i have to come in and be that support. If they had it all together i wouldn't be interested, but if i can be helpful in some big "i'm going to take care of you" way i'm totally in. Then when they've bettered themselves they just leave, which really makes sense if you think about it. I fell for a girl awhile ago, and the feelings are still there, but i've come to an understanding. Then when i see her with her boyfriend i can't help but think, wow i'm honestly better off alone. Not that they're bad together, because they're not, they're really great, it's just the constant worry of saying the wrong thing and miscommunication and being such a mental fuck that it's like..forget it! Something that seems like it should be so simple, isn't in the slightest, and i understand it's something you work at, but why should love require hard work? I think all the crap should fall by the way side, and you should take in the comfort of just being with one another, after all isn't that what it's all about?

Up until this point, what life has meant to me

2009-03-14T12:50:00.000-07:00

I guess your mediocre, cliched, or expected opening line could be read here, but it simply won't be. I'm not sure why i never took the same paths as everyone else, i'd like to believe that it's because i made a stark comparison of those who follow and those who don't. I've always had a hard time finding a place or community that has suited me, granted i am only 20 years old and i haven't been living life on my own for too long now. I relate to very few human beings, and most of them make me utterly detest the human race, of which i am a part. I can't fathom some of the behavior, i'm even more deeply disturbed when i do comprehend it. I've always been different, which i like a lot, it's helped me see things in different ways, and overcome challanges along the way. I'm not sure of a lot of things, and some of them i don't know if i ever will be. But, it's taken some time along the way from missteps and wrong decisions, to get back to a clear headed, positive, retreospective place in my life. I think i'm there, honestly and i'm more sure of what i want, who i am, and where i'm going than i've ever been.

It was 3 years ago that i met my future ex-girlfriend, and after things ended about a year later i had a really tough time recovering. I hadn't ever gone through something like it, and i'm sure it was equally hard living with that person, but why should it take so long to move on? I've always been a person that holds onto things, i have a theory that human beings don't appreciate significant moments until they've passed them by. I have felt and still feel that i need to hold onto thse moments as they are happening, to truly appreciate them. I could have very easily blamed her for my troubles, problems, but at the end of the day, she was young, and well i was stupid, and should have seen through to the eventual downfall. I can't honestly say with all certainty that i've forgiven her, because i haven't, or that i think she's a good person, because in my opinion she isn't, but to blame her ultimately for a decision that i made, no i can't do that.

Which now brings me to the present, i work, i come home and i go to sleep, and then i get up and do the same thing everyday. It's fine, i sometimes visit friends or will venture out and explore, but it's pretty lonely here. With only my thoughts and no one to share them with along with so much to say i frequently talk out loud to myself as if someone else is in the room discussing whatever it is i'm speaking of. I find it hard to meet people because what the hell am i supposed to say to someone that is attractive to me? You can't read a person on their personality without talking to them, you just can't. So the shallowness comes out, but there isn't any other way to meet people. But i don't really give an effort because i don't feel like anyone my age wants the same things that i do. I guess i should just stop second guessing everyone, because it's unfair and extremely judgemental. I can't grasp the idea of going out everynight to a party, and hooking up with someone new. Just the thought is quite repulsive, a shining reflection of young society and the ways we go about fullfilling our..."needs". So i don't bother, i'm moving soon anyway so what's the point?

Looking to the future, i plan on going to school in the fall and i'm hoping through that i'll be able to meet someone who pique's my interest and can actually strike up an intellectual conversation about something that matters. Sadly that's what im looking for, oh and someone who isn't awful looking. That's it, but perhaps that's a little too much to ask of my generation, i surely hope not. I think a lot, sometimes overthinking, a lot about the prospect of being alone for the rest of my life. Honestly, yea it would be terribly lonely, but at least i never had to sacrifice who i was, or what i achieved, fuck that. At the very least i would have myself, and to be completely honest i love who i am, and who i've become. I think i'm pretty great, i'm just so sick of people in general and the ignorance and the narrow-mindedness. I know there are good people out there, i've met some, and i know i can meet some more, so that gives me hope. I see so much ulginess in the world, in this country, it honestly makes me sick. I think if i could just have one person who has a open-minded perspective, who can relate and sympathize, and who knows what they want, i think i could be happy.

In closing i know that i have very strong opinions and how they come off to other people, i know i'm agressive and extreme at times. I know how i am, and for certain reasons why i won't ever have "tons" of friends. I'm okay with that, i don't like most people anyway, so that wouldn't exactly suit me. I can be abrasive, and extremely argumenative but i won't lie and say i don't enjoy it, because i do, very much. When talking of things that are close to me, that matter a lot to me i can get really worked up and be very personally attacking. I don't mean to be, i just have the need to feel that i'm right. Whatever the topic may be, i need to feel that i'm in the right, which in my personal opinion doesn't exist. There are opinions, but no one is wrong and no one is right, they are just feelings about what you think. I'm hoping that in time i will have learned to deal, but until then i have to just keep reminding myself that not everyone loves to argue for the sake of arguing. Finishing up here, i know a lot of this sounds like self-analyizing bullshit, but since i don't think anyone will read it, it doesn't matter. I'm just trying to find my own nook in this life, i've spent way too much time with doing what was right for someone else. I've got to get my shit together here, and figure some things out.

Watchmen Review

2009-03-10T22:28:00.000-07:00

The highly anticipated "Watchmen" was released this past Friday, the film adaptation of Alan Moore's critical darling of a graphic novel. I had no expectations going in, having not read the story, not knowing any of the characters or themes. After seeing the film now three times, i can say that for anyone the film could present the challenge of sitting there for almost 3 hours, having a large amount of dense material, as well as many characters, plots, and back stories. But none of it phased me, i was able to understand and take in all of the material, story, plots, everything the first time i watched it. It completely engulfed my imagination and perception with it's themes and stellar storyline. The story opens up with an ex-superhero known as the Comedian(Jeffery Dean Morgan) being murdered. In steps detective/vigilante Rorschach(Jackie Earle Haley) to investigate the Comedians murder. Assured that someone is out to "pick off costumed heroes" he delves deeper into finding some answers, only to find more questions.There are some really solid, if not great performances in this film. Jackie Earle Haley and Billy Crudup are very strong as Rorschach and Dr. Manhattan respectively, both are oscar worthy performances. Patrick Wilson as Nite Owl and Mathew Goode as Ozymandias give fine and noteworthy performances, and the Comedian isn't seen a whole lot but his scenes are certainly noteworthy. The pacing of the film is a bit quick, though it needs to be so it doesen't drag on for those who don't/can't appreciate the story and development. This film will get flack from fan-boys and critics alike. From the fan-boys it's that it wasnt exactly what the graphic novel was, and from the critics it'll be because it was too true to the graphic novel. Honestly either way that this film could have gone someone would of ended up bitching about it. Zach Snyder worked so hard to make this film true to the book, while at the same time trying to make it appealing to a broad audience. Personally, I think he did a tremendous job given the monumental task of putting a 6 to 8 hour story into less than a 3 hour film. The utterly gorgeous camera work has to be mentioned, the sound editing, the score, all of the technical aspects are truly superb. As a fan of film itself, it truly is a pleasure to watch this one.

There are some very trying themes laid before the auidience in this story, most won't understand how significant or broad it's message or how thought provoking it truly is. I guess i can't blame them with the anticipation of the new Transformers movie coming out. But it's so rare that we have a film that tests our own morals, our own thoughts, and personal truths and makes us ask questions about the world around us and to put ourselves in the characters shoes. Even i don't have a clear cut, definitive answer, but to even get to that point does it not take an amazing director to weave the ins and outs? To make such a poignant film that is so socially relevant it comes out and smacks us in the face, it really has to be marveled at. It's ok some people don't want to think when they go to the movies, some people don't want to think at all. But that's why we have all those god awful movies for people to go see and just be visually stimulated for 2 hours, without any character or plot development, without anything tangible. But "Watchmen" is the thinkers, philosophizers, and intellectuals comic book movie. It has characters of all backgrounds and personalities, that we root for and root against and then find ourselves questioning if we still feel that way about them as we're leaving the theater.