12.27.2003
Best TV of 2003
Every year, I lose more faith in television. Every year, another show comes along to surprise and entertain me.
Such is the nature of TV. As cable TV becomes more edgy and grabs more ratings, broadcast TV will be forced to take more risks.
So lets get into it.
#3: Viva la Bam (MTV)
I, for one, did not think that this show had a snowball's chance in hell of being entertaining, let alone successful. After all, Bam & Crew have done it all with the CKY videos and the Jackass show and movie. Right?
Couldn't have been more wrong. Admittedly, I did not tune in to this show when it first started. I got on the bandwagon pretty late.
Imagine if your parents were cool as hell and you had your own TV show and a ridiculously large budget from MTV with which to play pranks on your parents. Obviously, the show wouldn't work so well if Bam and his friends weren't so off-the-wall, and it obviously wouldn't work if Bam's family wasn't as easy-going as they appear, but this family certainly puts the Osbournes to shame.
#2: 24 (Fox)
Season two ended with Jack snapping necks and sniping, season three started with Jack shooting heroin. Ya know, this show really can do no wrong.
Yes, 24 has become even more overly dramatic and is increasingly becoming more and more over the top every week. That's what makes it so great. The only show on television that actually keeps me guessing and second-guessing myself. One of the most well-done and addictive programs in years is still on a roll and shows no signs of slowing down, well into its third season.
The best television show of 2003: Nip/Tuck (FX)
No doubt that Dr. Christian Troy and Dr. Sean McNamara provided the best entertainment on television in 2003. Unlike anything else on TV and the best show FX has put out since the Shield, Nip/Tuck has the best mix of humor and seriousness when it comes to dealing with prevalent issues in today's society - and not just in medicine.
In its first season, Nip/Tuck pushed the envelope as far as it could without going over the edge, and I salute that. For that, Nip/Tuck is the best show of 2003.
Most Disappointing TV of 2003
And yes, some new TV did disappoint, such as...
A Minute with Stan Hooper (Fox)
Poor Norm...
That's all I have to say about that.
Video Game Awards (Spike)
Hyped and promoted to all hell, and didn't live up to even the lowest of expectations. Anyone who knew nothing about videogames and tuned into the program would have their stereotypes about videogames reinforced, based on the horrible entertainment (except WK), the lame jokes, and the half-naked girls, all done with no seriousness whatsoever.
I'm not saying videogames need to have an awards show with the seriousness of the Oscars, but don't make it seem like a complete joke.
In the end...
I really don't watch much TV, aside from shows that I watch religiously. And the only shows I went out of my way to watch this year were 24, Nip/Tuck, Viva la Bam, FLCL, and the Joe Schmo Show.
There was some good stuff on the tube this year, but TV still sucks pretty bad.
Every year, I lose more faith in television. Every year, another show comes along to surprise and entertain me.
Such is the nature of TV. As cable TV becomes more edgy and grabs more ratings, broadcast TV will be forced to take more risks.
So lets get into it.
#3: Viva la Bam (MTV)
I, for one, did not think that this show had a snowball's chance in hell of being entertaining, let alone successful. After all, Bam & Crew have done it all with the CKY videos and the Jackass show and movie. Right?
Couldn't have been more wrong. Admittedly, I did not tune in to this show when it first started. I got on the bandwagon pretty late.
Imagine if your parents were cool as hell and you had your own TV show and a ridiculously large budget from MTV with which to play pranks on your parents. Obviously, the show wouldn't work so well if Bam and his friends weren't so off-the-wall, and it obviously wouldn't work if Bam's family wasn't as easy-going as they appear, but this family certainly puts the Osbournes to shame.
#2: 24 (Fox)
Season two ended with Jack snapping necks and sniping, season three started with Jack shooting heroin. Ya know, this show really can do no wrong.
Yes, 24 has become even more overly dramatic and is increasingly becoming more and more over the top every week. That's what makes it so great. The only show on television that actually keeps me guessing and second-guessing myself. One of the most well-done and addictive programs in years is still on a roll and shows no signs of slowing down, well into its third season.
The best television show of 2003: Nip/Tuck (FX)
No doubt that Dr. Christian Troy and Dr. Sean McNamara provided the best entertainment on television in 2003. Unlike anything else on TV and the best show FX has put out since the Shield, Nip/Tuck has the best mix of humor and seriousness when it comes to dealing with prevalent issues in today's society - and not just in medicine.
In its first season, Nip/Tuck pushed the envelope as far as it could without going over the edge, and I salute that. For that, Nip/Tuck is the best show of 2003.
Most Disappointing TV of 2003
And yes, some new TV did disappoint, such as...
A Minute with Stan Hooper (Fox)
Poor Norm...
That's all I have to say about that.
Video Game Awards (Spike)
Hyped and promoted to all hell, and didn't live up to even the lowest of expectations. Anyone who knew nothing about videogames and tuned into the program would have their stereotypes about videogames reinforced, based on the horrible entertainment (except WK), the lame jokes, and the half-naked girls, all done with no seriousness whatsoever.
I'm not saying videogames need to have an awards show with the seriousness of the Oscars, but don't make it seem like a complete joke.
In the end...
I really don't watch much TV, aside from shows that I watch religiously. And the only shows I went out of my way to watch this year were 24, Nip/Tuck, Viva la Bam, FLCL, and the Joe Schmo Show.
There was some good stuff on the tube this year, but TV still sucks pretty bad.
12.23.2003
Best Movies of 2003
This year was by far the biggest year of Hollywood blockbusters and sequels. The suits in Cali are obviously out of ideas, but this year's cinema resulted in a mixed bag of film.
And now, the good...
#3: The Matrix Reloaded/Revolutions
Love or hate these movies, this much is for certain: No one expected the sequels to the Matrix to turn out quite like this. As Smilin' Jack Ruby declared over at CHUD, the Matrix Reloaded had about as much to do with the original Matrix as Evil Dead II had to do with Evil Dead.
Definitely not perfect, but still immensely entertaining and original, the Matrix sequels will undoubtedly be the subject of much scrutiny and debate for some time to come. I wouldn't have it any other way.
#2: The Last Samurai
A historical epic based on the ancient art of the Samurai, with a drunken American played by superstar Tom Cruise thrown into the mix. Doesn't sound like it would draw comparisons to Braveheart, but strangely enough, the films are in the same vein.
A great war flick, an emotional character story, and a well done film.
The best movie of 2003: The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King
Everything you can say about this movie has already been said. I've seen it twice and plan on going for a third viewing. Peter Jackson's version of J.R.R. Tolkien's sweeping epic captures the mood and themes of the novel as well as any fan could ask for.
It'll be a damn shame if Jackson and company get shut out when Oscar time comes this year. And yes, it's that damn good.
Most Surprising Movie of 2003: Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines
Didn't do this category for the videogames, but Terminator 3 is deserving of this category all by its lonesome self.
The early previews for this one looked horrid. "She'll be back"? Hooboy. No James Cameron, no returning stars except Arnold... how could it be good?
Luckily, director Johnathan Mostow (of U571 fame) managed to pull this one off against all odds. While not nearly as good as the definitive action movie, Terminator 2, this movie gave enough twists in the Terminator 3 universe to make the franchise fresh and entertaining, and potentially move it into a territory where a sequel without Governor Schwarzenegger could exist. Bravo.
Most Disappointing Movies of 2003
Not all was perfect in 2003, though... particuarly if you're Ben Affleck or Charlie Sheen.
Daredevil
One of my favorite comic book series brought to the big screen in horrible fashion. Apparently hero Matt Murdock picked up some of Spidey's superhuman strength, as he was able to jump a few stories into the air and latch onto the wall with no explanation.
Despite Colin Farrell with an excellent portrayal of Bullseye, the movie falls flat (unlike Elektra's giant chest).
Scary Movie 3
David Zucker, of Airplane! and Naked Gun fame, takes over the lame intentionally-offensive adult comedy from the Wayans brothers and turns it into a PG-13 affair. Zucker's track record is good and I enjoy his style of comedy. Combined with a dynamite trailer that even had me laughing, and I thought this one might pay off.
Couldn't have been more wrong. Zucker's throw-everything-at-the-wall-and-see-what-sticks approach is back and intact, but these walls are quite slippery this time around.
In the end...
Hollywood had a number of surefire sequels that managed to disappoint in the box office, namely Charlie's Angels 2, Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life, and Legally Blonde 2. This is very good.
Then a few sequels that shouldn't have fared so well managed to exceed expectations, such as Scary Movie 3 and 2 Fast 2 Furious. This is very bad.
Next year seems to hold nothing particuarly exciting in the theaters... the I, Robot film seems to not realize its based on a novel, The Chronicles of Riddick looks a bit too over the top, and there's another movie set in the universe of "The Mask" coming out. Kill me now.
This year was by far the biggest year of Hollywood blockbusters and sequels. The suits in Cali are obviously out of ideas, but this year's cinema resulted in a mixed bag of film.
And now, the good...
#3: The Matrix Reloaded/Revolutions
Love or hate these movies, this much is for certain: No one expected the sequels to the Matrix to turn out quite like this. As Smilin' Jack Ruby declared over at CHUD, the Matrix Reloaded had about as much to do with the original Matrix as Evil Dead II had to do with Evil Dead.
Definitely not perfect, but still immensely entertaining and original, the Matrix sequels will undoubtedly be the subject of much scrutiny and debate for some time to come. I wouldn't have it any other way.
#2: The Last Samurai
A historical epic based on the ancient art of the Samurai, with a drunken American played by superstar Tom Cruise thrown into the mix. Doesn't sound like it would draw comparisons to Braveheart, but strangely enough, the films are in the same vein.
A great war flick, an emotional character story, and a well done film.
The best movie of 2003: The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King
Everything you can say about this movie has already been said. I've seen it twice and plan on going for a third viewing. Peter Jackson's version of J.R.R. Tolkien's sweeping epic captures the mood and themes of the novel as well as any fan could ask for.
It'll be a damn shame if Jackson and company get shut out when Oscar time comes this year. And yes, it's that damn good.
Most Surprising Movie of 2003: Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines
Didn't do this category for the videogames, but Terminator 3 is deserving of this category all by its lonesome self.
The early previews for this one looked horrid. "She'll be back"? Hooboy. No James Cameron, no returning stars except Arnold... how could it be good?
Luckily, director Johnathan Mostow (of U571 fame) managed to pull this one off against all odds. While not nearly as good as the definitive action movie, Terminator 2, this movie gave enough twists in the Terminator 3 universe to make the franchise fresh and entertaining, and potentially move it into a territory where a sequel without Governor Schwarzenegger could exist. Bravo.
Most Disappointing Movies of 2003
Not all was perfect in 2003, though... particuarly if you're Ben Affleck or Charlie Sheen.
Daredevil
One of my favorite comic book series brought to the big screen in horrible fashion. Apparently hero Matt Murdock picked up some of Spidey's superhuman strength, as he was able to jump a few stories into the air and latch onto the wall with no explanation.
Despite Colin Farrell with an excellent portrayal of Bullseye, the movie falls flat (unlike Elektra's giant chest).
Scary Movie 3
David Zucker, of Airplane! and Naked Gun fame, takes over the lame intentionally-offensive adult comedy from the Wayans brothers and turns it into a PG-13 affair. Zucker's track record is good and I enjoy his style of comedy. Combined with a dynamite trailer that even had me laughing, and I thought this one might pay off.
Couldn't have been more wrong. Zucker's throw-everything-at-the-wall-and-see-what-sticks approach is back and intact, but these walls are quite slippery this time around.
In the end...
Hollywood had a number of surefire sequels that managed to disappoint in the box office, namely Charlie's Angels 2, Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life, and Legally Blonde 2. This is very good.
Then a few sequels that shouldn't have fared so well managed to exceed expectations, such as Scary Movie 3 and 2 Fast 2 Furious. This is very bad.
Next year seems to hold nothing particuarly exciting in the theaters... the I, Robot film seems to not realize its based on a novel, The Chronicles of Riddick looks a bit too over the top, and there's another movie set in the universe of "The Mask" coming out. Kill me now.
12.21.2003
Best Videogames of 2003
Well, the year is almost over, and I'm a loser, so I'm going to share what I believe are the best (and worst) of 2003. I'll rank the top three, from third to first, then following it up with the "most disappointing" category. Enjoy.
So, we'll start today with videogames.
#3: Command and Conquer Generals (PC)
The C&C Franchise came back this year, and in a big way. The development company formerly known as Westwood before being consumed by the behemoth that is EA cranked out a beautifully crafted RTS based on modern warfare.
In C&C Generals, players are able to join with three different factions: the US, China, or a terrorist organization. Each group has their own types of units and superweapons, plus a few tricks up their sleeve.
The game is surprisingly well balanced, provided a large assortment of vehicle and weapon types, and gives unique strategies for each "team" in the game. The single player campaign is short, but definitely fun, with some cool in-game cutscenes and changing landscapes. Online multiplayer is definitely the place to be, though.
#2: SSX3 (PS2, Xbox, GC)
Without a doubt the most polished and well-designed game of 2003, SSX3 is worth every bit of praise it recieves. The control is tight and responsive, the graphics are outstanding, the levels are fast, fun, and full of shortcuts, and the game's got online multiplayer (if you have a PS2, that is).
SSX came out as the premier launch title for the PS2. SSX Tricky introduced the Uber-Tricks and took it up a notch. SSX3 brings the formula all together, combining snowboarding and racing almost perfectly, with a nice balance of tricking and racing needed to win.
I'm always one of the first to insult EA for controlling the industry and putting out some half-assed games, but there's no denying this one: SSX3 rocks.
The best videogame of 2003: The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker (GC)
How do you follow up one of the greatest games of all time? You cause endless controversy by changing the established visual style of the series and, in the end, you create a classic.
Yeah, it doesn't make sense to me either, but Miyamoto's decision to make the Wind Waker a cel-shaded cartoony game was a bold step that even I was a critic of. In the end, the style works and the game pays off.
Wind Waker may not be as good as Ocarina of Time, but it's still arguably the best videogame to have come out on this current generation of consoles, and with good reason. It borrows the same gameplay style of Ocarina of Time with some new tweaks and twists. Link can now pick up his enemies weapons and borrow them, as well as the new parry attack.
The musical instrument this time around is a magical wand that allows Link to control the wind, along with other things. Link sets out onto the high seas on his sailboat and the resulting adventure is undoubtedly a videogame classic and the best of 2003.
Most Disappointing Videogames of 2003
No particular order here, this category is a sort of free for all.
Also, this doesn't mean that these games are horrible, but they certainly didn't live up to what was expected.
Unreal II
This game looks great, but unfortunately it doesn't play that great. Years had built up with gamers anticipating the true sequel to Unreal. Unreal Tournament proved fun, but didn't stand the test of time as well as Quake III Arena. Unreal Tournament 2003 tried to turn the game into a pseudo-sports title, shooting itself in the foot.
Unreal II isn't a bad game really, but the level design, the weapons, and the enemies are uninspired, as was my time playing this game.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
The Turtles may be back, but their kickass videogame series of yesteryear is not. The original Turtles for NES, albeit sloppy, was lots of fun and created an adventure game that was, in many ways, ahead of its time. Then came Turtles 2: The Arcade Game, adopting the Double Dragon style of gameplay and creating a classic. Turtles 3: The Manhattan Project was also a worthwhile adventure.
Who'd have thought that the simple formula created for beating Foot Clan ass could be messed up? Konami attempted to use the license and bring back the nostalgia many gamers have for the latter two NES titles by creating a cel-shaded beat-em-up. The end result was repetetive and stupid. Controls were off, the moves weren't interesting, the bad guys fought horribly, and they didn't even keep in the necessary jump kick or the hit-all-buttons supermove that took away one stick of your life. Shame.
In the End...
It was a good year for videogames, probably the best year we've seen in this current race of consoles. Online gaming certainly kicked into high gear and console sales spiked, particuarly in Nintendo's department. As always, though, gamers look to the horizon or, in this case, 2004...
Next year: Halo 2, Half-Life 2, Metal Gear Solid 3, Ninja Gaiden, and rumors of a Grand Theft Auto sequel.
Well, the year is almost over, and I'm a loser, so I'm going to share what I believe are the best (and worst) of 2003. I'll rank the top three, from third to first, then following it up with the "most disappointing" category. Enjoy.
So, we'll start today with videogames.
#3: Command and Conquer Generals (PC)
The C&C Franchise came back this year, and in a big way. The development company formerly known as Westwood before being consumed by the behemoth that is EA cranked out a beautifully crafted RTS based on modern warfare.
In C&C Generals, players are able to join with three different factions: the US, China, or a terrorist organization. Each group has their own types of units and superweapons, plus a few tricks up their sleeve.
The game is surprisingly well balanced, provided a large assortment of vehicle and weapon types, and gives unique strategies for each "team" in the game. The single player campaign is short, but definitely fun, with some cool in-game cutscenes and changing landscapes. Online multiplayer is definitely the place to be, though.
#2: SSX3 (PS2, Xbox, GC)
Without a doubt the most polished and well-designed game of 2003, SSX3 is worth every bit of praise it recieves. The control is tight and responsive, the graphics are outstanding, the levels are fast, fun, and full of shortcuts, and the game's got online multiplayer (if you have a PS2, that is).
SSX came out as the premier launch title for the PS2. SSX Tricky introduced the Uber-Tricks and took it up a notch. SSX3 brings the formula all together, combining snowboarding and racing almost perfectly, with a nice balance of tricking and racing needed to win.
I'm always one of the first to insult EA for controlling the industry and putting out some half-assed games, but there's no denying this one: SSX3 rocks.
The best videogame of 2003: The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker (GC)
How do you follow up one of the greatest games of all time? You cause endless controversy by changing the established visual style of the series and, in the end, you create a classic.
Yeah, it doesn't make sense to me either, but Miyamoto's decision to make the Wind Waker a cel-shaded cartoony game was a bold step that even I was a critic of. In the end, the style works and the game pays off.
Wind Waker may not be as good as Ocarina of Time, but it's still arguably the best videogame to have come out on this current generation of consoles, and with good reason. It borrows the same gameplay style of Ocarina of Time with some new tweaks and twists. Link can now pick up his enemies weapons and borrow them, as well as the new parry attack.
The musical instrument this time around is a magical wand that allows Link to control the wind, along with other things. Link sets out onto the high seas on his sailboat and the resulting adventure is undoubtedly a videogame classic and the best of 2003.
Most Disappointing Videogames of 2003
No particular order here, this category is a sort of free for all.
Also, this doesn't mean that these games are horrible, but they certainly didn't live up to what was expected.
Unreal II
This game looks great, but unfortunately it doesn't play that great. Years had built up with gamers anticipating the true sequel to Unreal. Unreal Tournament proved fun, but didn't stand the test of time as well as Quake III Arena. Unreal Tournament 2003 tried to turn the game into a pseudo-sports title, shooting itself in the foot.
Unreal II isn't a bad game really, but the level design, the weapons, and the enemies are uninspired, as was my time playing this game.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
The Turtles may be back, but their kickass videogame series of yesteryear is not. The original Turtles for NES, albeit sloppy, was lots of fun and created an adventure game that was, in many ways, ahead of its time. Then came Turtles 2: The Arcade Game, adopting the Double Dragon style of gameplay and creating a classic. Turtles 3: The Manhattan Project was also a worthwhile adventure.
Who'd have thought that the simple formula created for beating Foot Clan ass could be messed up? Konami attempted to use the license and bring back the nostalgia many gamers have for the latter two NES titles by creating a cel-shaded beat-em-up. The end result was repetetive and stupid. Controls were off, the moves weren't interesting, the bad guys fought horribly, and they didn't even keep in the necessary jump kick or the hit-all-buttons supermove that took away one stick of your life. Shame.
In the End...
It was a good year for videogames, probably the best year we've seen in this current race of consoles. Online gaming certainly kicked into high gear and console sales spiked, particuarly in Nintendo's department. As always, though, gamers look to the horizon or, in this case, 2004...
Next year: Halo 2, Half-Life 2, Metal Gear Solid 3, Ninja Gaiden, and rumors of a Grand Theft Auto sequel.
12.17.2003
The Return of the King
Now that the trilogy is completed and one of my all-time favorite stories has come to a close in its cinematic form, it is quite bittersweet. Sure, I've seen Peter Jackson's epic undertaking in its conclusion, but unless Jackson decides to do The Hobbit or The Scouring of the Shire, this is the end.
Sigh.
Return of the King is so well done, crafted so beautifully, it's obvious that this movie, this trilogy, is Jackson's labor of love. It's impossible to fully appreciate what Jackson has accomplished without seeing Return of the King. The scope, the potential, and the scale of the story is all finally realized in the conclusion to the story. Jackson, simply put, is a genius.
And this guy directed Bad Taste?
So many things described in the books through words are conveyed by the actions and the emotions of the actors, particuarly Sean Astin. Samwise Gamgee's devotion to his friend Frodo Baggins could not be more evident and, as in the book, Sam is the true hero of Return of the King.
This is not to underscore the job done by Sir Ian McKellen in his portrayal of Gandalf the White.
Hell, this trilogy was just about perfectly cast.
Sure, fanboys may bitch about Saruman's disappearance from the movie (wait for the DVD) or Elrond's visit to Aragorn (never happened), but overlooking the major accomplishment that is this trilogy for such small details would be a crime.
I could go on, but nothing I say can mean anything at this point. You know you're going to see the movie, and if you read the books or enjoyed the first two movies, you're going to love it.
It is indeed a bittersweet moment. But don't worry about that. Enjoy the movie, immerse yourself in the universe of Tolkien, and believe in the Hobbits.
Frodo lives.
Now that the trilogy is completed and one of my all-time favorite stories has come to a close in its cinematic form, it is quite bittersweet. Sure, I've seen Peter Jackson's epic undertaking in its conclusion, but unless Jackson decides to do The Hobbit or The Scouring of the Shire, this is the end.
Sigh.
Return of the King is so well done, crafted so beautifully, it's obvious that this movie, this trilogy, is Jackson's labor of love. It's impossible to fully appreciate what Jackson has accomplished without seeing Return of the King. The scope, the potential, and the scale of the story is all finally realized in the conclusion to the story. Jackson, simply put, is a genius.
And this guy directed Bad Taste?
So many things described in the books through words are conveyed by the actions and the emotions of the actors, particuarly Sean Astin. Samwise Gamgee's devotion to his friend Frodo Baggins could not be more evident and, as in the book, Sam is the true hero of Return of the King.
This is not to underscore the job done by Sir Ian McKellen in his portrayal of Gandalf the White.
Hell, this trilogy was just about perfectly cast.
Sure, fanboys may bitch about Saruman's disappearance from the movie (wait for the DVD) or Elrond's visit to Aragorn (never happened), but overlooking the major accomplishment that is this trilogy for such small details would be a crime.
I could go on, but nothing I say can mean anything at this point. You know you're going to see the movie, and if you read the books or enjoyed the first two movies, you're going to love it.
It is indeed a bittersweet moment. But don't worry about that. Enjoy the movie, immerse yourself in the universe of Tolkien, and believe in the Hobbits.
Frodo lives.
12.14.2003
Zebrahead/Lucky Boys Confusion/WORST CROWD IN THE HISTORY OF CONCERTS
Caught Zebrahead and LBC in Orlando this past Wednesday at the House of Blues, presented by my good buddy Jim Beam. I had heard from friends that went to the show the previous night in Tampa that the crowd was lacking, but it was almost embarassing when I saw the number of folks at the Orlando show.
The sad truth is that Zebrahead is not a headline-quality band, and neither is Lucky Boys. These guys just don't sell enough records, don't have enough of a fan base, and aren't known well enough.
It's a damn shame, too. I've heard that Zebrahead is one if the biggest bands in Japan, strangely enough. Apparently they headline huge music festivals in Japan all the time.
Anyhow, the show opened with the Plain White T's, which couldn't have been less interesting to me. Blah.
Lucky Boys showcased a good mix of old and new. Unfortunately, they didn't play any of their really old stuff, but this wasn't a headlining gig, so they kind of had to get on and off the stage.
I give them credit, every time I catch them live, they put on a good show with a lot of energy, even in front of the WORST CROWD IN THE HISTORY OF CONCERTS.
That's right. Not only was no one at the show, but they liked to stand with their arms folded and stare at bands they paid fifteen bucks to see without blinking an eye.
Ah well, that didn't slow Zebrahead down one bit. These guys are really top-notch entertainers, and they're very funny. Even though 90% of the crowd didn't seem to give a shit, they had a lot of energy and said and did some really funny stuff.
What makes it even cooler is that none of the shit they did was rehearsed. I talked to friends who went to the show in Jacksonville and in Tampa, and at each show, they did their own different stuff.
In the end, I'm glad I went to the Orlando show, 'cuz that was the only time they covered "Eye of the Tiger" and also "Billy Passed the 3rd Grade." They also played the rare "Deck the Halls (I Hate Christmas)" during the 'Zebrahead Request Hour.' Gotta love it.
The guys also weren't afraid to poke fun at the fact that no one was at the show and that the people who bothered to come could care less. At least they had a good sense of humor about it.
Much like Lucky Boys, Zebrahead also did a good mix of old and new, with a decent sampling of their new CD. Unfortunately, they really didn't play enough off their first CD, "Waste of Mind," which is a stark contrast from "Playmate of the Year" and "MFZB," their more recent offerings. Regardless, the tracks they decided to play were great, and the band, as always, was extremely entertaining.
Caught Zebrahead and LBC in Orlando this past Wednesday at the House of Blues, presented by my good buddy Jim Beam. I had heard from friends that went to the show the previous night in Tampa that the crowd was lacking, but it was almost embarassing when I saw the number of folks at the Orlando show.
The sad truth is that Zebrahead is not a headline-quality band, and neither is Lucky Boys. These guys just don't sell enough records, don't have enough of a fan base, and aren't known well enough.
It's a damn shame, too. I've heard that Zebrahead is one if the biggest bands in Japan, strangely enough. Apparently they headline huge music festivals in Japan all the time.
Anyhow, the show opened with the Plain White T's, which couldn't have been less interesting to me. Blah.
Lucky Boys showcased a good mix of old and new. Unfortunately, they didn't play any of their really old stuff, but this wasn't a headlining gig, so they kind of had to get on and off the stage.
I give them credit, every time I catch them live, they put on a good show with a lot of energy, even in front of the WORST CROWD IN THE HISTORY OF CONCERTS.
That's right. Not only was no one at the show, but they liked to stand with their arms folded and stare at bands they paid fifteen bucks to see without blinking an eye.
Ah well, that didn't slow Zebrahead down one bit. These guys are really top-notch entertainers, and they're very funny. Even though 90% of the crowd didn't seem to give a shit, they had a lot of energy and said and did some really funny stuff.
What makes it even cooler is that none of the shit they did was rehearsed. I talked to friends who went to the show in Jacksonville and in Tampa, and at each show, they did their own different stuff.
In the end, I'm glad I went to the Orlando show, 'cuz that was the only time they covered "Eye of the Tiger" and also "Billy Passed the 3rd Grade." They also played the rare "Deck the Halls (I Hate Christmas)" during the 'Zebrahead Request Hour.' Gotta love it.
The guys also weren't afraid to poke fun at the fact that no one was at the show and that the people who bothered to come could care less. At least they had a good sense of humor about it.
Much like Lucky Boys, Zebrahead also did a good mix of old and new, with a decent sampling of their new CD. Unfortunately, they really didn't play enough off their first CD, "Waste of Mind," which is a stark contrast from "Playmate of the Year" and "MFZB," their more recent offerings. Regardless, the tracks they decided to play were great, and the band, as always, was extremely entertaining.
12.10.2003
The Last Samurai
Movies about war tend to kick serious ass.
Even if they're flawed, they're still highly entertaining as long as they include a giant battle with hundreds of people going at each others throats.
I actually prefer period piece war movies. Tales from times when battles were fought by men and their pride, not countries and their supplies of technology.
When I think of war movies that capture a moment in time in the history of humankind in a fashion that pulls you into the film, a handful of titles come to mind... Braveheart, Zulu, Gladiator, and The Patriot, to name a few. Sure, Michael Caine, Mel Gibson, and Russell Crowe weren't perfect in those movies. The movies weren't even close to perfect. But they worked.
Emotional stories in times of war where you feel for and relate to the characters, and just when its starting to get too fucking sappy, a big fight breaks out. Then, towards the end, someone dies a real man's death in a brave and noble way on the battlefield. Things get emotional again for a minute and the credits roll.
Its a formula that works, and Ed Zwick knows this. Hence his creature: the Tom Cruise-driven "Last Samurai."
I can soundly say that "The Last Samurai" is the best movie I've seen this year, barnone.
Cruise plays a U.S. general who is an expert at ridding the country of Indians. The Japanese government recruits him (with a little help and twisting of the arm from Cruise's superior) and Cruise ends up in Japan training soldiers to fight off "primitive" Samurai - the Japanese equivalent of America's Indian problem. The Samurai, who use only swords, arrows and armor, fight for the old ways of Japan, while the emperor insists on adopting new, civilized ways of life. In the heat of battle, the Samurai capture Cruise and nurse him back to health, all while he learns the customs of the Samurai way.
The film is full of explosive battle action sequences and brilliantly choreographed swordfighting, as well as containing quite possibly the coolest ninja attack in the history of cinema. "The Last Samurai" also offers an interesting look at the ways of the old East and the contrasts with American culture.
The issue of the culture clash between the old and new in the film is just as prevalent in the world today as it was in Japan in the late 1800s, making the story relevant and intriguing. The respect and admiration the people and even elders of Japan have for their "enemy," the Samurai, also provides a fascinating take on Japanese culture and customs.
If Braveheart, Gladiator and the like tickle your fancy "The Last Samurai" is for you. If not, you may still enjoy the flick for its representation of Eastern philosophy and culture. Either way, it's worth checking out.
And, for now, it stands as my favorite movie of 2003. That is, at least, until December 17th...
Movies about war tend to kick serious ass.
Even if they're flawed, they're still highly entertaining as long as they include a giant battle with hundreds of people going at each others throats.
I actually prefer period piece war movies. Tales from times when battles were fought by men and their pride, not countries and their supplies of technology.
When I think of war movies that capture a moment in time in the history of humankind in a fashion that pulls you into the film, a handful of titles come to mind... Braveheart, Zulu, Gladiator, and The Patriot, to name a few. Sure, Michael Caine, Mel Gibson, and Russell Crowe weren't perfect in those movies. The movies weren't even close to perfect. But they worked.
Emotional stories in times of war where you feel for and relate to the characters, and just when its starting to get too fucking sappy, a big fight breaks out. Then, towards the end, someone dies a real man's death in a brave and noble way on the battlefield. Things get emotional again for a minute and the credits roll.
Its a formula that works, and Ed Zwick knows this. Hence his creature: the Tom Cruise-driven "Last Samurai."
I can soundly say that "The Last Samurai" is the best movie I've seen this year, barnone.
Cruise plays a U.S. general who is an expert at ridding the country of Indians. The Japanese government recruits him (with a little help and twisting of the arm from Cruise's superior) and Cruise ends up in Japan training soldiers to fight off "primitive" Samurai - the Japanese equivalent of America's Indian problem. The Samurai, who use only swords, arrows and armor, fight for the old ways of Japan, while the emperor insists on adopting new, civilized ways of life. In the heat of battle, the Samurai capture Cruise and nurse him back to health, all while he learns the customs of the Samurai way.
The film is full of explosive battle action sequences and brilliantly choreographed swordfighting, as well as containing quite possibly the coolest ninja attack in the history of cinema. "The Last Samurai" also offers an interesting look at the ways of the old East and the contrasts with American culture.
The issue of the culture clash between the old and new in the film is just as prevalent in the world today as it was in Japan in the late 1800s, making the story relevant and intriguing. The respect and admiration the people and even elders of Japan have for their "enemy," the Samurai, also provides a fascinating take on Japanese culture and customs.
If Braveheart, Gladiator and the like tickle your fancy "The Last Samurai" is for you. If not, you may still enjoy the flick for its representation of Eastern philosophy and culture. Either way, it's worth checking out.
And, for now, it stands as my favorite movie of 2003. That is, at least, until December 17th...
12.06.2003
Down the shitter
Evanescence.
Nominated for a Grammy.
For album of the year.
Now I'll be honest, I've never really paid much attention to the Grammys and I ordinarily couldn't care less, but come on. Evanescence? That really blew my mind.
Disclaimer: I don't even know the name of their album, nor have I cared to listen to it. I only know what I've heard on the radio. With that in mind...
I can sum up what I know of Evanescence in two words:
Dog shit.
Evanescence.
Nominated for a Grammy.
For album of the year.
Now I'll be honest, I've never really paid much attention to the Grammys and I ordinarily couldn't care less, but come on. Evanescence? That really blew my mind.
Disclaimer: I don't even know the name of their album, nor have I cared to listen to it. I only know what I've heard on the radio. With that in mind...
I can sum up what I know of Evanescence in two words:
Dog shit.
12.05.2003
WK does it again at lame Video Game Awards
I actually sat through the Godawful Spike TV Video Game Awards in its entirety. This was partially because I wanted to support anything videogame-related on television no matter how bad, and also because Andrew WK was set to perform. I'll talk about the former in a second.
As for Andrew... just when you think you've seen him do it all, he shows up to the VGA's in a damn wheelchair with a broken foot.
I'm sure most of the crowd sat there wondering who he was, why he was in a wheelchair, and what he had to do with videogames.
But anyhow, WK managed to give off his usual spastic performance with only three useable limbs, rocking out so hard that his wheelchair was rolling all over the place. He did half of "Tear It Up," half of "Party Hard," and then the intro to "Get Ready to Die." If you manage to catch the repeat, the WK portion is worth watching... but that's about it.
Ah yes, the rest of the show. Well, I give Spike TV credit for a few things. First, for having the balls to do a videogame awards show. Second, they advertised the hell out of this thing. I saw billboards, magazine ads, and nonstop TV ads. Finally, they got the stars to turn out, making it appear "cool" to play games to the masses.
Now, the bad. The biggest problem was how awkwardly the show was run. There were no "nominees," they just sort of handed out awards. That in itself really didn't make much sense.
Presenters came out and said quips and then didn't even bother introducing things, which was mighty strange. All of the bits and jokes fell flat horribly. There was one funny Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic spoof, and the lifetime achievement award given to the dot from Pong was funny, but that's literally all in a two hour show.
And talk about a total lack of knowledge of what's good in the videogame industry. Awards were given to Dead or Alive Xtreme Beach Volleyball, Nascar Thunder, True Crime, and WWE Smackdown. Now, none of these are horrible games (except perhaps DOA Volleyball), but I can say for sure that WWE Smackdown is not the best fighting game to come out this year. It isn't even a fighting game! Wrestling games are their own genre because they play nothing like fighting games.
And the best game of the year? Madden 2004.
YOU GOT DAT MADDEN?!
Alright. Madden is an established series. This year introduced the revolutionary franchise mode. It's consistently the best selling football game every year. Yes, all of this is true.
Best game of the year?
Please. First, ESPN NFL Football (aka NFL2K4) is a better football game. It's online for both PS2 and Xbox, it plays more accurately, and the 2K series has outperformed Madden since its inception.
Second, look at the well-recieved games that came out this year: Zelda: Wind Waker, SSX3, Tony Hawk's Underground, Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, Knights of the Old Republic, Metroid Prime, Freedom Fighters, Command and Conquer Generals, Max Payne 2, DF: Black Hawk Down...
Well, I could keep going, but it seems as though Spike TV has some sort of arrangement with EA and also something against Nintendo, who won no awards for Zelda or Metroid.
Regardless, its still fun to see someone dubbing horrible lines over a cutscene from games like Freelancer or Splinter Cell on national TV, even if there is a total lack of humor. Lets just hope next year, if there's a show next year, they iron out the wrinkles.
I actually sat through the Godawful Spike TV Video Game Awards in its entirety. This was partially because I wanted to support anything videogame-related on television no matter how bad, and also because Andrew WK was set to perform. I'll talk about the former in a second.
As for Andrew... just when you think you've seen him do it all, he shows up to the VGA's in a damn wheelchair with a broken foot.
I'm sure most of the crowd sat there wondering who he was, why he was in a wheelchair, and what he had to do with videogames.
But anyhow, WK managed to give off his usual spastic performance with only three useable limbs, rocking out so hard that his wheelchair was rolling all over the place. He did half of "Tear It Up," half of "Party Hard," and then the intro to "Get Ready to Die." If you manage to catch the repeat, the WK portion is worth watching... but that's about it.
Ah yes, the rest of the show. Well, I give Spike TV credit for a few things. First, for having the balls to do a videogame awards show. Second, they advertised the hell out of this thing. I saw billboards, magazine ads, and nonstop TV ads. Finally, they got the stars to turn out, making it appear "cool" to play games to the masses.
Now, the bad. The biggest problem was how awkwardly the show was run. There were no "nominees," they just sort of handed out awards. That in itself really didn't make much sense.
Presenters came out and said quips and then didn't even bother introducing things, which was mighty strange. All of the bits and jokes fell flat horribly. There was one funny Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic spoof, and the lifetime achievement award given to the dot from Pong was funny, but that's literally all in a two hour show.
And talk about a total lack of knowledge of what's good in the videogame industry. Awards were given to Dead or Alive Xtreme Beach Volleyball, Nascar Thunder, True Crime, and WWE Smackdown. Now, none of these are horrible games (except perhaps DOA Volleyball), but I can say for sure that WWE Smackdown is not the best fighting game to come out this year. It isn't even a fighting game! Wrestling games are their own genre because they play nothing like fighting games.
And the best game of the year? Madden 2004.
YOU GOT DAT MADDEN?!
Alright. Madden is an established series. This year introduced the revolutionary franchise mode. It's consistently the best selling football game every year. Yes, all of this is true.
Best game of the year?
Please. First, ESPN NFL Football (aka NFL2K4) is a better football game. It's online for both PS2 and Xbox, it plays more accurately, and the 2K series has outperformed Madden since its inception.
Second, look at the well-recieved games that came out this year: Zelda: Wind Waker, SSX3, Tony Hawk's Underground, Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, Knights of the Old Republic, Metroid Prime, Freedom Fighters, Command and Conquer Generals, Max Payne 2, DF: Black Hawk Down...
Well, I could keep going, but it seems as though Spike TV has some sort of arrangement with EA and also something against Nintendo, who won no awards for Zelda or Metroid.
Regardless, its still fun to see someone dubbing horrible lines over a cutscene from games like Freelancer or Splinter Cell on national TV, even if there is a total lack of humor. Lets just hope next year, if there's a show next year, they iron out the wrinkles.
12.02.2003
Scammed by Shaq
Well, I suppose Shaq or one of his agents reads my useless commentary here (or perhaps it was a matter of coincidence), but either way he seems to have taken my advice given two months ago (click and scroll down to see the original story).
Shaq's Big Heart Attaq Adventure
"I can't really remember the names of the clubs we went to."
- Shaquille O'Neal, on whether he had visited the Parthenon during his trip to Greece
Well, I suppose Shaq or one of his agents reads my useless commentary here (or perhaps it was a matter of coincidence), but either way he seems to have taken my advice given two months ago (click and scroll down to see the original story).
Shaq's Big Heart Attaq Adventure
"I can't really remember the names of the clubs we went to."
- Shaquille O'Neal, on whether he had visited the Parthenon during his trip to Greece
|
2003 - 2005 Reverend Hughes |
