Find Peace, Michael. July 7, 2009
http://www.michaeljackson.com
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Scarecrow Video - a Seattle Experience
a kate west recommendation
Having recently visited Seattle for the first time, I was struck by how right so many of my friends were. This was a perfect city for me - laid-back, liberal, intellectual, but not snobbish, and environmentally savvy. Everyone was friendly, with no agenda. Coming from Los Angeles, you can imagine my relief not to hear an itemized list of someone's resume every time I merely said hello. The air was clear, the weather gorgeous (though I was warned time and time again how utterly atypical this was and not to get used to that bright sun) and little wisps of cotton blew across every road, like leftover pixie dust. Truly magical. Too good to be true, right?
I did all the must-sees like Pike Place and the Space Needle. Even visited the architecturally innovative newish Library. Saw surrounding little versions of Pleasantville like Kirkland, Bellevue and Ballard. All worthy tourist photo opps, to be sure. But my favorite spot in Seattle has to be Scarecrow Video.
The staff here lives, breathes and eats cinema, pretty much. The store has the most extensive film collection I've ever seen and puts Hollywood Boulevard to shame. Every recommendation is dead-on and they expect you to know your film history as well, since most movies are categorized by director. Who needs Netflix when you can walk in to the very real and present warm atmosphere of your fellow cinephiles? It'll take you years to learn everything about the place, so start by chatting up the staff - most of whom are here for the long haul. Then come back to La-la Land and tell 'em what they're missing.
If you're going, here are the jots of noteworthy interest:
We’re located in the University District of Seattle at 5030 Roosevelt Way NE (206.524.8554).
A quick exit off of I-5 and an easy walk from the University of Washington.
For directions to the store or how long it will take you to walk here from Boston, click here.
For some of our legendary history click here. Questions? They might be answered here.
Oh and don't forget to visit the original Rudy's at http://www.rudysbarbershop.com.
Enjoy!
Star Trek
a kate west reflection
A Sci-Fi nerd for as long as I can remember, "Star Trek" has to be my first love and Spock my first crush. Cold, emotionally unavailable intellectuals ... ah, that's what I'm doing wrong. Anyway, enough about me, let's Trek talk. I admit I was skeptical about the new movie, and purists will still take issue with some of the creative liberties of the story lines. Written by Roberto Orci and Alex Kurtzman, this adaptation of way-too-little-of Starfleet history does nonetheless manage to remain essentially true to Gene Roddenberry's original characters, believe it or not. Just keep thinking alternate-universe time lines.
Directed by J.J. Abrams ("Lost"), the new "Star Trek" brings together old crewmembers Spock (Zachary Quinto of "Heroes" fame), Dr. "Bones" McCoy (Karl Urban), Chekov (Anton Yelchin), Uhura (Zoe Saldana), Scotty (Simon Pegg) and Sulu (John Cho) in a whole new old adventure. Also, Eric Bana co-stars as the villain Nero and Leonard Nimoy himself appears as an older version of Spock (that will be explained when you see it). Confused yet? Suffice to say, there is some rewritten history, but not enough to really mess with the essence of the classic Enterprise gang we have come to know and love.
We get to see Kirk, Spock and crew back when they first enroll in the Academy and then go on their first mission. It's nice to speculate on how they all met and what their first impressions of each other were. Urban's McCoy is especially good, as he channels DeForest Kelley to a T. Again, some of the back story is a tad different, due to messing with time travel, but you will recognize everyone. Simon Pegg is an excellent Scottish Engineer and Quinto is a perfect Spock. By the time Chris Pine dons the yellow shirt of command, he is a young Shatner incarnate. Yelchin's Chekov is a little overdone (but so was Walter Koenig). Zoe Saldana is fine as Uhura and John Cho handles Sulu alright, for what little screen time he has. Thank God the forever-untalented Winona Ryder has a mercifully brief and unrecognizable appearance as Spock's Mother. And Michael Giacchino's original score contributes to the excitement and hipness that is the new Abrams film and is overall a fun ride.
I don't know whether or not the new "Star Trek" will stand the test of time as it is someone's personal version of a beloved franchise. And while it is action-packed and so very cool, it doesn't cover the core attraction - mainly the ideal universe the original creators envisioned. "Space. The final frontier. These are the voyages of the Starship Enterprise. Its five year mission - To explore strange new worlds. To seek out new life and new civilizations. To boldly go where no (one) has gone before." And let's not forget the Prime Directive, an important Starfleet law of noninterference with other civilizations, much like the creed our contemporary wildlife photographers and filmmakers adhere to.
I loved "Star Trek" for the comradery and the messages of morality in the story lines. And for the idealism of building an organization that brought together different races (and species) in one common mission. "Star Trek" inspired us to invent cell phones and to have interracial crew members and even female captains. This vision of our future helped NASA work on our present. And is there another 1960's forward-thinking television show that spawned so many equally idealistic spin-offs? "Next Generation", "Deep Space Nine", "Voyager", "Enterprise" - each of these shows tried something different, while keeping to the main point - promoting peace and unity whenever and wherever possible in this vast universe of ours.
If there is a sequel (and based on audience response, I don't see why there would not be), I'd like to see the characters go a little deeper into that part of our space which inspires us to improve on our own humanity. J.J. Abrams may not be the biggest ST fan, but surely he can understand the appeal.
"Live Long and Prosper".
More Star Trek:
http://www.katewestreviews.com/2001/12/star-trekvoyager.html
Action Chick Flick Link:
http://actionflickchick.com/superaction/star-trek-2009
Old Star Trek (start collecting now):
Star Trek: The Original Series - Season 1 [Blu-ray]
Nostalgia and Dreams
a kate west review
world premiere presented by
White Buffalo Theatre Company
written by Brett Holland
directed by Kerrie Keane
at the Deaf West Theatre
5112 Lankershim Blvd.,
North Hollywood 91601
running April 17 to May 24
contact whitebuffalotheaterco.com
or (818) 569-3037
"Nostalgia and Dreams" is a brand new play by Brett Holland, company member of the eclectic White Buffalo Theatre Company in North Hollywood. An apartment building full of tenants showcases lives turned upside down at the same time a local Cathedral is scheduled for demolition. The obvious references to a crisis in faith are interspersed with seemingly dark secrets. Unfortunately, despite committed performances, it doesn't quite come together.
One young couple battles with what appears to be a marriage-ending secret. Another mother-daughter pair wrestles with possible anorexia. One tenant whines about being gay and another neighbor talks to someone dead. In an effort to create universal conflict, Playwright Brett Holland makes the characters interact from time to time, but ultimately they have no real affect on one another.
Director Kerrie Keane weaves the story lines together, but not everything fits. For instance two "suits" (Danny Junod and Jessica Wright) slip down the theater aisles when the lights dim in between scenes. Their corporate presence seems to indicate societal and business pressures on the protagonists, often egging them on into deeper insecurities. They howl and gyrate, taunting everyone, but could just as easily been eliminated as they do not add much to the general plot.
Speaking of plots, the script follows quite a perplexing few. Paul (Playwright Brett Holland) is a young man tortured by his homosexuality. He is shadowed by a young boy (Chris Haehnel) who appears to be a symbol for something. His inner child? His past? His future? It is never explained. We never find out why Paul is so unhappy with his lifestyle or his relationship to a stressed-out new mother (Regina Peluso). Standout Sydney Park is radiant as Rebecca, the young girl with a God fixation who wants to be much too thin. Her mother (Angelina Leaf) is in denial until finally snapping in a rather awkward force-feeding scene, after neighbor Paul attempts a half-hearted intervention. Tommy (Carlo Serna) and Amy (Marguerite Moreau) are a young couple with communication problems. Their relationship is a bit grating and cutesy. And after all the build up with a seemingly dark secret, their resolution is a bit watered down. Lynne Conner is a spiritual old woman who talks to herself, or maybe someone from her past or from the graveyard. That is never explained either. Marguerite Moreau and Sydney Park (keep an eye on her so you can say you-knew-her-when) give the strongest performances, in spite of the rather weak dialogue. Nothing connects in a truly genuine way.
Life, death, love and spirituality are all touched on but never given deep illumination. The play would do much better as a one act, in a shorter format, with some brief glimpses into life vignettes. That way, each character could have snippets of conversations and the poetic intent would work much better, rather than leading us down character paths, only to find ourselves asking why? Granted, the intention is sincere, but the overall writing needs tidying up as the messages are rather obvious. There is a lot of yearning and some inexplicable monologues in the mix as well. Also, the attempt at absurdism does not quite make it. To go in that direction, one would need to go to the other extreme and make a longer play, with more fleshed out fantastical characters.
As it is, the play now stands in between two genres and does not reach its true potential. We never specifically find out what the nostalgia and dreams are all about either. Too bad. The White Buffalo Theatre Company certainly has heart however and seems to be doing well for itself. Kudos.
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Paper Heart
a kate west review
directed by Nicholas Jasenovec
written by Charlyne Yi and Nicholas Jasenovec
Winner of the 2009 Sundance Film Festival Waldo Salt Screenwriting Award, "Paper Heart" is a documentary (of sorts) about love. Charlyne Yi (experienced stand up comedian) does not believe in such fantasies. Or so she claims. But she wants to find out more, so she journeys across America, interviewing folks about their different definitions of l'amour. And naturally everyone has a different answer for her.
The movie blends reality and fantasy (such as actor Jake Johnson playing Director Nicholas Jasenovec, who actually exists and is actually the director) and while this may be confusing to some, it does give the film a definite sweet charm and appeal. Yi is the wide-eyed non-believer, quizzing everyone from children in a playground to hard core Harley Davidson bikers. The interviews are candid and touching and while they don't necessarily offer real insight into true love, they are hopeful stories of that amazing thing that happens when you finally meet just the right person in just the right way. And even more delightful, much of the lovers' stories are acted out by paper puppets, with half-finished backgrounds, adding to the theme of childlike wonder.
In the course of the film, Yi eventually meets Michael Cera ("Arrested Development", "Juno", "Superbad") and in spite of her many protests, ends up liking him after all. Their courtship is played out under the camera's scrutiny, part scripted, part real, as the two really fall for each other. There are a lot of cute moments as the couple attempts to elude the cameras and later try to make their love work in spite of the intrusion. Cera is his usual subtle, quirky self, delivering lines in that uniquely funny style of his and his youthfulness is the perfect match for Yi's immaturity. It's a simple story about a personal quest for love and who among us can't relate to that? It's the perfect length too. Any longer and one might become impatient with Yi's childishness. But in the end, her naivety leads her to a pure love.
"Paper Heart" is a sweet movie, which fulfills our childhood fantasies of romance, acts it out with paper puppets and tries to figure it all out for us. Exactly what is the difference between what looks good on paper and the reality of love? You might not find the answer to that, but you will enjoy looking. The moral of the story then has to be that one should always be open to love, because you will inevitably find it in a place you least expect. So stay positive, friends.
Watch the Trailer Here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rmVQLmaA0fQ
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Twilight
Twilight
by Stephenie Meyer
a kate west boo
One of the most popular teen novels currently is the Vampire novel "Twilight", the first of four books in the saga of the Cullen clan, a Vampire family. Yes, you read that right. It's also a popular teen film about a Vampire family. Now to figure out which version is worse. It's all been discussed in countless chat rooms, sure, but as a sci-fi/fantasy nerd girl (with a delightful dark side, if I do say so myself), I have to weigh in on all things Vampire. I knew it would pain me to delve into this phenomenon, but for the sake of integrity (much as I was tempted), I cannot criticize something I haven't seen or read. Thus the sacrifice was made and I'm all up to date, kids. So let's start with the novel.
For the record, Stephenie Meyer writes for teenagers knee-deep in hormonal hell but that doesn't mean they aren't literate and can't follow a coherent story. But I digress. Edward Cullen is a mysterious high schooler attracted to newcomer Bella Swan. She can't figure out his initial aversion to her until he gradually reveals (while she figures it out herself) that he is a vampire and her blood is so intoxicatingly scented, he could lose his mind. She, in turn, is drawn to his beauty and the two of them are swept up in adolescent infatuation, much to the disapproval of some townspeople and even family members (on both sides).
Some of the Vampire lore is well-known: they are immortal (he stopped being 17 in 1918), they drink blood, have supernatural strength and heightened senses. What we didn't know is that they are comfortable in the sunlight, but prefer to stay in darkness, since the sun brings out this glowing golden sheen, a dead giveaway (get it?), for sure. Oh and these fangless beings can choose not to feed on humans and go after Bambi instead. AND they play baseball. And Ed's a mind reader too. Maybe Meyer found some kind of reference to these various twists in some dusty old book somewhere, but I doubt it and I'm certainly not taking up valuable research time to find out (I'd miss too many "Lost" episodes). So I conclude she made that part up. And it is absurd. Why keep part of the lore and then add a few enhancements just to be interesting? Vampires are monsters and the one thing we all know is that they crave human blood, so they can't just decide not to go after it. Even Joss Whedon's "Angel" had to regain his soul in order to accomplish that. You can be creative certainly, but please stay true to the universe you create. Call them something else and then you can have them behave however you choose.
And even worse, the dialogue is flat and the characters maudlin and it just isn't a very sophisticated rendering of dark creatures. The Cullens have a family and they just accept Bella as Edward's intended? His scowling sister Rosalie isn't taken very seriously and they all bond together when outsiders swing into town, looking for trouble. If you want to know how it ends, skim the book or see the movie. Or go to the Bahamas and take all four novels for some beach reading. If you need mindlessness - and who doesn't these days?
As for the movie, Edward's great speed looks ridiculous on screen and it is hard not to chuckle at some of these overly dramatic lines such as Edward referring to the new love as between a "lion and a lamb". The acting is pretty wooden and Catherine Hardwicke's first action-type film is fairly standard. Eye candy abounds on both sides, especially yummy Robert Pattinson as the delectable Edward. But outside of being enchanted by his pretty face, I couldn't pay much attention. Bella is in danger and you know Edward will save her. There's a formal dance and lots of classroom scenes and family drama and it's "My So-Called Life" for Vampires. The dialogue is lifted out of the book, unfortunately and plays even worse on screen. If you roll your eyes reading it, imagine having to hear it.
You're welcome - I do what I can for America. But it's a hit and teen girls are dreaming of having their own Edward Cullen someday. Over Mr. Darcy? Shudder. But if you must love a creature of the night, there are so many more good Vamps out there. Try Stephen King or Richard Matheson. Then follow up with a romance novel (or even an Anne Rice, if you really must). Or just watch "Buffy the Vampire Slayer".
Boo.
| Directed by | Catherine Hardwicke |
|---|---|
| Produced by | Mark Morgan Greg Mooradian Wyck Godfrey |
| Written by | Novel: Stephenie Meyer Screenplay: Melissa Rosenberg |
| Starring |
- Peter Facinelli as Carlisle Cullen
- Elizabeth Reaser as Esme Cullen
- Ashley Greene as Alice Cullen
- Jackson Rathbone as Jasper Hale
- Nikki Reed as Rosalie Hale
- Kellan Lutz as Emmett Cullen
- Billy Burke as Charlie Swan
It's out now!
Twilight (Two-Disc Special Edition)
Read more!
My Roommate the Cylon
a kate west recommendation in abbreviations
Ever hear of "My Roommate, the Cylon" (MRTC)? Even if you aren't a fan of BSG ("Battlestar Galactica", c'mon people, turn on your television once in a while, OMG) and I'm really not, though I've heard of it of course, this series parody will tickle you. Three normal guys in a normal apartment suddenly suspect that one of them isn't so normal after all. One of them might be ... a cylon. And if don't know what that is, stop right here, as you're obviously not a BSG fan. To find out which one is in the closet, tune in each week as we get closer and closer to the hilarious truth. Well edited, directed, acted and just generally put together in a perfectly seriously funny way, MRTC should not be missed. Especially by sci-fi die hards. But even the non-techies will get a boost. As the byline says ....
Three roommates.
One is a Cylon.
You do the math.
Credits
- Produced, Written, and Directed by:
- Robert Gustafson & Alec McNayr
- Alex Enriquez as Bennett Jacobs
- Tyson Turrou as Pjeter Odama
- Kenny Stevenson as Dale McKinney
- Dorien Davies as Jessica Yarborough
Catch the first episode:
My Roommate the Cylon 1.1 "The Test" from Space Shank Media on Vimeo. Read more!
Puppet Up
a kate west review
directed by Patrick Bristow
at Avalon Hollywood
1735 N Vine St., Hollywood , CA 90028
Next shows - April 18 & May 22, 2009
8:00 PM (doors open 7:00 PM)
contact (323) 462-8900
www.puppetup.com or www.wantickets.com
The Jim Henson Company continues to impress, decades after Kermit the Frog's gentle humor on "Sesame Street" led to the beloved "The Muppet Show". Henson's legacy lives on with his son Brian Henson, who has formed a delightful combination of puppets and improv in "Puppet Up" now playing at the hip Avalon in Hollywood.
Puppets, improv and alcohol? It is sure to be an enchanted evening. Be forewarned however; there's a reason it plays late at night. The adorable little furry creatures are capable of doing and saying almost anything. Innuendos and curse words fly as Director Patrick Bristow takes suggestions from the audience. After a delightful introductory "Puppet Up" song with a full cast of puppeteers, a la "Muppet Show", the improvisers do scene after scene, making up choice witticisms on the spot. One is often undecided what to focus on - the actors with their tireless hands up in the air holding puppets, or the side monitors showing the actual televised scene with full puppet characters. Try watching both if you can. You'll learn a lot.
The majority of the cast is strong and the characters they don even more impressive. You'll meet a bulldog in diapers, an intellectual orangutan, a trustworthy newscaster, one-eyed extraterrestrials and hot dogs on sticks, to name but a silly few. You'll be amazed at amount of characters these professionals can jump in and out of, even in the same scene. One highlight featured Drew Massey singing a Bond-like theme song while the rest of the cast floated in and out of the camera lenses, creating a very real and sexy 007 look. It's also fun to see Brian Henson in his element, leaping from one brainstorm to the next. Not everything works entirely well every single night, of course. Sometimes a scene or two can get off track at times, but there's plenty more zaniness where that came from. And every night is wildly different.
The audience doesn't get away scott-free either as often members are pulled up on stage and nurtured kindly into entertaining the rest of us. One such scene featured the puppets reenacting a couple's first date while the pair in question dinged or buzzed according to what the improvisers got right. Imagine the hilarity when the characters uncover different perceptions of the same evening. Some lucky "volunteer" might even get to try handling an actual puppet. You'll have to wait and see.
A clever idea indeed, "Puppet Up" is the logical next step for an innovative company that tries anything, without ever using malicious or mean-spirited humor. It's all good fun. Can't say clean exactly as this is the evening show and those puppets take over the actors at times. But as the puppet-less cast will tell you in the end - all those ideas came from you.
The cleverness behind "Puppet Up" - Cast and Production:
Brian Henson
Brian Clark
Julianne Buescher
Drew Massey
Allan Trautman
Victor Yerrid
Ted Michaels
Willie Etra - Musical Director
Patrick Bristow - Director and Host
["Puppet Up" Cast, Edinburgh Festival, Scotland]
Previous mention here:
http://www.katewestreviews.com/2007/10/puppet-up.html
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Now Playing at the Improvatorium
Noir Town and No Place Like Rome
a kate west review
directed by Patrick Bristow
at Theatre Asylum
6320 Santa Monica Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90038
playing February 5, 19; March 5, 19; April 2, 16, 30
contact (323) 962-1632 or www.cafearts.com
The improv group Improvatorium is a group of former theater students from Hollywood's Theatre Asylum who just want to bring you a little improv fun in these heavy economic times. Headed by Patrick Bristow (from the famed Groundlings Theatre), the troupe presents two long form acts - one in a Film Noir genre and one in Roman Epic. They are professional actors who take suggestions from the audience and create murder, mystery, decadence and spoof, all in period clothing.
At the start of the Act One, we see a black and white screen listing the actors and set to a film score to get you into a sober detecting mood. Someone dies and you get to choose the murderer. Is it the evil foreigner? The loyal secretary? Or perhaps someone in the shadows? This particular evening, it was the woman running a car wash, of course someone you would least suspect.
The actors have a ball creating droll 1940's dialogue, complete with dramatic pauses and meaningful glances. Act Two sets up a wild romp in Roman times, with full regalia (you know you want to see those Centurian feather headsets). We pick the plots points and the actors camp it up for us, delighting in the enfolding madness. And it is obvious they are having the time of their lives up on that stage.
The players are solid and while this relatively new company has a few minor rough edges to smooth out, they have a lot of entertaining nights ahead of them. Particular standouts this evening were Kevin Berntson, Gareth Berrow, Brian Clark, Peggy Etra and Jayne Entwistle.
Cast
Grant Baciocco
Kevin Berntson
Gareth Berrow
Brian Clark
Jayne Entwistle
Peggy Etra
Leslee Harman
Alison Monk
Carla Rudy
Chris Sheets
Matt Vlahakis
Vanessa Whitney
Do you think you can do what they do? Find out:
director@improvatorium.com
WATCHMEN
novel by Alan Moore
artwork by Dave Gibbonsa kate west review
The long awaited newest superhero movie "Watchmen" finally arrives to Los Angeles after several false starts. Not only is there a controversial change in the ending, but also creator Alan Moore remains bitter about his work being Hollywoodized. The original 1980's D.C. comic series debuted to some skepticism itself, due to its dark nature and deeply flawed heroes. But it ultimately achieved cult status, becoming one of the most famous modern graphic novels.
Purists will of course take issue with the change of ending (you've been warned), and pure thrill-seekers will be baffled by the despairing bleakness of the film. Director Zack Snyder (actually a fan of Moore, in spite of the creator's animosity), creates a faithful adaptation, up until the finale and the casting is spot on. Those familiar with the series will appreciate the small character moments and personalities that make up the detailed universe of "Watchmen". It may help you to read the novel before seeing the film, although it is not vital to understanding the plot. The movie is quite thorough.
A group of 1940's superheroes (shown in flashbacks) help rid the world of crime while trying to tend to their own lives. Some of them make it, some don't. They are the Minutemen. A new generation comes along in the 80's, only to be forced into early retirement by a society hell bent against vigilantism. They are the Watchmen. One of the originals is murdered, however, prompting the new crew to get back into the fight.
Nite Owl, The Comedian, Ozymandias, Dr. Manhattan, Silk Spectre and Rorschach are some of the vibrantly different heroes and villains of the story. Aside from plenty of action, the movie is chock full of betrayal, sordid pasts, madness and fear. In this version of history, Richard Nixon takes on a third term and every man, woman and child hopes the Russians won't send nuclear warheads raining down on America. The Watchmen are rejected, yet the world still ends up needing them to save the planet. Isn't that always the way? No respect for hardworking masked saviors.
Jeffrey Dean Morgan is fantastic as the devilish Comedian and Jackie Earle Haley conveys the tortured Rorschach to perfection. So many of the scenes are exact storyboards lifted right out of the comic pages. Rorschach's expressions and violence match the novel panel for panel, as do Nite Owl's (Stephen McHattie) awkwardness at developing into a true hero. Billy Crudup is not outshone by the flawless special effects look of his character, but rather makes it his own, turning from mortal into god. And Matthew Goode's arrogant Ozymandias works quite well. To say more would deprive one of the gradual unfolding of each revelation. Suffice it to say, it is a well-executed rendition of a cult classic, despite Moore's petulance. One main complaint however - the soundtrack. Some of the songs choices are tired and often random. Sometimes they are too obvious a choice and sometimes don't fit the era. In a perfect world, the DVD would be released with a brand new musical score. Here's hoping.
Granted, 'tis a black world indeed, and one that asks for insight into our modern world and our own penchant for harming each other. The uncompromising Rorschach is even driven mad by it. So don't expect Superman or even Batman fare - this story is quite somber and kudos to Snyder for his meticulous adaptation. That was a brave undertaking.
Purists will of course take issue with the change of ending (you've been warned), and pure thrill-seekers will be baffled by the despairing bleakness of the film. Director Zack Snyder (actually a fan of Moore, in spite of the creator's animosity), creates a faithful adaptation, up until the finale and the casting is spot on. Those familiar with the series will appreciate the small character moments and personalities that make up the detailed universe of "Watchmen". It may help you to read the novel before seeing the film, although it is not vital to understanding the plot. The movie is quite thorough.
A group of 1940's superheroes (shown in flashbacks) help rid the world of crime while trying to tend to their own lives. Some of them make it, some don't. They are the Minutemen. A new generation comes along in the 80's, only to be forced into early retirement by a society hell bent against vigilantism. They are the Watchmen. One of the originals is murdered, however, prompting the new crew to get back into the fight.
Nite Owl, The Comedian, Ozymandias, Dr. Manhattan, Silk Spectre and Rorschach are some of the vibrantly different heroes and villains of the story. Aside from plenty of action, the movie is chock full of betrayal, sordid pasts, madness and fear. In this version of history, Richard Nixon takes on a third term and every man, woman and child hopes the Russians won't send nuclear warheads raining down on America. The Watchmen are rejected, yet the world still ends up needing them to save the planet. Isn't that always the way? No respect for hardworking masked saviors.
Jeffrey Dean Morgan is fantastic as the devilish Comedian and Jackie Earle Haley conveys the tortured Rorschach to perfection. So many of the scenes are exact storyboards lifted right out of the comic pages. Rorschach's expressions and violence match the novel panel for panel, as do Nite Owl's (Stephen McHattie) awkwardness at developing into a true hero. Billy Crudup is not outshone by the flawless special effects look of his character, but rather makes it his own, turning from mortal into god. And Matthew Goode's arrogant Ozymandias works quite well. To say more would deprive one of the gradual unfolding of each revelation. Suffice it to say, it is a well-executed rendition of a cult classic, despite Moore's petulance. One main complaint however - the soundtrack. Some of the songs choices are tired and often random. Sometimes they are too obvious a choice and sometimes don't fit the era. In a perfect world, the DVD would be released with a brand new musical score. Here's hoping.
Granted, 'tis a black world indeed, and one that asks for insight into our modern world and our own penchant for harming each other. The uncompromising Rorschach is even driven mad by it. So don't expect Superman or even Batman fare - this story is quite somber and kudos to Snyder for his meticulous adaptation. That was a brave undertaking.
Directed by:
Starring:
Malin Akerman...Laurie Jupiter / Silk Spectre II
Billy Crudup...Dr. Manhattan / Jon Osterman
Matthew Goode...Adrian Veidt / Ozymandias
Jackie Earle Haley...Walter Kovacs / Rorschach
Jeffrey Dean Morgan...Edward Blake / The Comedian
Patrick Wilson...Dan Dreiberg / Nite Owl II
Carla Gugino...Sally Jupiter / Silk Spectre
Matt Frewer...Edgar Jacobi / Moloch the Mystic
Stephen McHattie...Hollis Mason / Nite Owl
Laura Mennell...Janey Slater
Malin Akerman...Laurie Jupiter / Silk Spectre II
Billy Crudup...Dr. Manhattan / Jon Osterman
Matthew Goode...Adrian Veidt / Ozymandias
Jackie Earle Haley...Walter Kovacs / Rorschach
Jeffrey Dean Morgan...Edward Blake / The Comedian
Patrick Wilson...Dan Dreiberg / Nite Owl II
Carla Gugino...Sally Jupiter / Silk Spectre
Matt Frewer...Edgar Jacobi / Moloch the Mystic
Stephen McHattie...Hollis Mason / Nite Owl
Laura Mennell...Janey Slater
Graphic Novel:
Watchmen
Blu Ray:
Watchmen [Blu-ray]
Read more!
Dollhouse
a kate west reflection
Oh Joss, I've been waiting for months (years!) for you to return to us, bringing more sci-fi witticisms and action-packed supernatural romance with interesting and steady character development. I think I classify as a fanatic as I've been forced to follow "Angel" and "Buffy" adventures in comic book form, something relatively new to me. But thank you. I re-watch my DVDS and then pull out "Firefly" and "Serenity" in between vampire stores. I even followed "Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog" online. I qualify.
So of course I was beside myself with joy to see that good old Vampire Slayer Faith (Eliza Dushku) was returning to your story lines in a brand new Joss Whedon creation, "Dollhouse" as Echo (cool name!) In an "Alias" inspired scenario, young people are unwittingly recruited by a mysterious organization as spies for various nefarious purposes (changes every week). The catch is that each recruit has his or her memory wiped clean between jobs and then sent out anew on the next mission. Will Echo figure this out somehow?
Uh, I don't care.
The show doesn't grab me. The characters don't inspire followers and no one is sympathetic. Not only has the whole sleeper soldier thing has been done before, but without your normally rich contemporary dialogue, I'm not interested in seeing how it develops. Or doesn't. It breaks my heart, but your new series doesn't work and after struggling through two painful episodes, I can't bring myself to tune in again. It lacks that heart, the key to relating to your protagonist - I can't indentify with this blank slate of a woman. Maybe you were overly ambitious or got some bad advice? Whatever it is, I wish you luck with the show and hope it gets better, but I probably won't be watching.
In short: meh!
Previous review here:
http://www.katewestreviews.com/2007/01/buffy-and-angel.html
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Divorce! The Musical
(Lowe Taylor and Rick Segall; photo courtesy Craig Schwartz)
When Couples Lose .... Lawyers Win
World Premiere
a kate west review
music, lyrics & book by Erin Kamler
directed by Rick Sparks
musical direction by David O
at Hudson Mainstage Theater
6539 Santa Monica Blvd
Hollywood , CA 90038
running Saturday, Feb 14 – EXTENDED INDEFINITELY!!!
(preview February 5)
contact (323) 960-1056 or
www.divorcemusical.com
The best way to deal with a divorce is from a distance. In the midst of the raw newness, when dealing with a former love as immovable and unfeeling as stone, you are swept away rudderless in a sea of pain. Photo albums are surreal; suddenly you're looking at two strangers, and all those years together washed away in an instant. You are turned inside out and your heart floods your head, so that thinking coherently is no longer possible and you just need to go crawl into that hollow cave of grief until you can deal with normal life skipping by once more. When all that is over and done with however, maybe you can finally laugh about it. Maybe even sing a little. Or hey, even write a musical.
Fresh from divorce number two, Playwright Erin Kamler (heard recently on NPR's "All Things Considered"), did just that. Frustrated with the merciless way divorce lawyers pick apart once-precious memories, Kamler (three-time winner of Stephen Sondheim's Young Playwright's Festival) voiced her own post-romantic experiences in song. The result? "Divorce! The Musical" premieres at The Hudson in Hollywood, a town very well acquainted with liquidating marital assets. On Valentine's Day, no less, exclamation point and all.
Rick Segall and Lowe Taylor are Rich and Penny Hughes, a bright-eyed, optimistic young couple excitedly singing wedding vows at the top of the show ("Till Death Do Us Part"), only to be arguing in a marriage counselor's (Gabrielle Wagner) office a mere three years later (i.e. the very next scene). It can happen that fast. And seems to, more and more lately, especially in our current economic crisis. But back to the show.
The Hughes couple drifts further and further apart, until the money-hungry lawyers devour every last morsel of property. Rich and Penny try their best, like awkwardly attempting to move on with one-night stands in a hilarious musical number "Rebound Sex" which still resonates with the pain of lost love. The lawyers grow progressively more evil and in spite of having every intention of keeping things civil, the couple also succumbs to petty revenge. In between flashy dance routines, the actors sing poignant lyrics on dead love ("There Were Good Things").
Director Rick Sparks and Musical Director David O create some memorable scenes, such as a game show version of divorce mediation. Erin Kamler's lyrics are universally real, hitting home with various audience members (you can always tell the divorcees). Rick Segall is a strong and fervent lost lover, the ex-husband struggling to make sense of his life. Lowe Taylor balances perplexity, horror, despair and longing seamlessly. The two work quite well together, jumping from all the different ranges of emotion, playing off each other exactly the way ex-lovers would. The singing is plentiful and good, especially noted in Taylor's passionate voice. The rest of the talented ensemble, Gabrielle Wagner, Leslie Stevens and Gregory Franklin, play the various friends, lawyers and even parents, in and out of the couple's public break-up. Yes, one of them ends up back with the folks. Will the torture never end?
It is a heart-weary piece, and at barely an hour and a half, it felt like some of the characters might have been fleshed out a bit more. For instance, the do-good lawyer (Leslie Stevens) is seduced to the dark side a tad too quickly and the couple never does make it to court, which might have made for a grander climax, so to speak. But altogether it's a remarkably fun show, in spite of the bitter story. The gist of the show is clear - don't count on happy endings. This is definitely a tough look at divorce (is there any other way to look at it?) and though short, it is well written and oh, so very real. In the end, the couple is able to hold on to parts of the relationship and the memory of how it felt to fall in love in that 'till-death-do-us-part kind of way. Is it possible to remain friends with your ex? Probably not in this show. But anyone can relate to the feelings laid bare here. We've all been there, right?
So it's not quite the typical Hollywood feel-good, but the music is very good, the cast is wonderful and it's all too true. Happy Valentine's Day.
UPDATE: Apparently Producer Rick Culbertson proposed to Playwright Erin Kamler on Opening Night, on yes, Valentine's Day (she accepted), proving there is hope for us all. Whew!
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Eat, Pray, Love and Think for Yourself
a kate west reflection
Elizabeth Gilbert, author of the sensational autobiography "Eat, Pray, Love", is spreading the gospel of self and creative genius. She's good at this, having written a compelling account of her own spiritual awareness. So she's the perfect person to lecture people on how to find and nurture creativity. I don't have a problem with this or with her but I am annoyed by the mindlessness of some of her fans.
As parodied in Monty Python's brilliant "Life of Brian", the Messiah never said anything funny or anything you can poke fun at and Python never did. What they made fun of was the unthinking masses who refused to think for themselves, despite poor Brian's pleading. He didn't ask to be a leader - it was thrust upon him.
Gilbert, while certainly no Messiah, didn't ask either. She just wanted to tell her story and then after months of enjoying the bestseller list, she now has to deal with rabid fans following in her literal footsteps, so to speak. Confessing on "Oprah" that they went to all the same spots and met all the same people as in the book, these women glow with the satisfaction of having achieved some sort of enlightenment. But they haven't. They didn't find their own path - they followed Gilbert's. Maddening. Live your own story and then you can write about it - don't steal someone else's.
That being said, the video below really is a fascinating and appealing way to look at creativity. Just please, find your own genie.
Inspiring Talk Below:
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Inauguration Info
For the Facebook Addicts:
Obama Inauguration on CNN.com Live with Facebook.
Watch Obama's historic inauguration and update your Facebook status all in one place.
Host: CNN
Date: Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Time: 8:00am - 6:00pm
Location: http://www.cnn.com/live/
Watch live streaming video of Obama's inauguration on CNN.com/live.
What will your Facebook status say when Obama becomes President? CNN.com and Facebook are partnering to enable you to update your status, and follow your friends' updates, while you watch the inauguration live online, all on http://cnn.com/live.
On Tuesday, January 20th, watch President-elect Barack Obama become the next President of the United States on http://cnn.com/live. You can watch the live video online from anywhere with broadband access.
Coverage begins at 8am EST, with the swearing-in ceremony at 12pm EST, followed immediately by Obama's inauguration address.
Whether you're at the office, at home, at the library, or anywhere else, you can share this moment in history with your Facebook friends live, as it happens.
Don't miss this historic inauguration!
Check out Kate West Reviews on Facebook
And brand spanking redone website: http://www.whitehouse.gov
Wordle Site: http://www.wordle.net
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Happy Holidays
kate west good wishes
Please take the time to enjoy peace and joy with others and to help those less fortunate. Have a healthy, happy 2009.
www.unionstationfoundation.org
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A Day Without Gays
America voted for its first African-American President. But opponents of full equality for another minority were also successful across the Nation.
It's time to take a stand for FULL EQUALITY for ALL AMERICANS, including the LGBT Community.
45 States ban gay marriage in some form.
30 states ban gay and lesbian employment protection
16 states are planning to ban gay adoptions and fostering.
Civil Unions are denied the 1100 Federal benefits of marriage.
Join us on December 10th, International Human Rights Day.
STRIKE - Take the day off, close your business, or call in sick (unless you may get fired because you are gay or lesbian).
BOYCOTT - Don't buy anything, spend money or support the economy.
PARTICIPATE - Don't stay home. To volunteer, petition or protest, go to www.adaywithoutgays.com.
(If you live in California, go to www.couragecampaign.org to find out how to help overturn Prop 8).
THIS IS ABOUT RAISING AWARENESS. A one-day strike/boycott is symbolic and will not have a huge impact. However, for millions of gay and lesbians, the current economic situation is made even worse without the rights and benefits of marriage or employment protection. Also, gay marriage would have brought $683 million and over 2200 jobs to CA in 3 years. If you really support America's economy, support Gay Marriage.
"The world only moves forward. We will be citizens! The time has come." - ANGELS IN AMERICA
Spring Awakening
Spring Awakening
a kate west review
directed by Michael Mayer
music by Duncan Sheik
book & lyrics by Steven Sater
based on the book by Frank Wedekind
at the Ahmanson Theatre
Center Theatre Group
135 North Grand Ave, Los Angeles 90012
contact 213-628-2772
www.centertheatregroup.org or
www.springawakening.com
running October 29 - December 7, 2008
The hip multi-Tony-award winning (including Best Musical) "Spring Awakening" comes to Los Angeles at last, straight from Broadway. Likened to be as freshly liberating as Jonathan Larson's rock 'n roll version of "La Boheme" ("Rent") over a decade earlier, the show presents the tragedy of teen angst as universal truth, in any era. Based on the controversial 1800's German play by Frank Wedekind, the story encompasses all that is painful about growing up restricted and inhibited by misguided social morals.
Like the original, "Spring Awakening" the musical is set in 1800's Europe, where boys and girls know very little of each other and their need to express themselves leads them down some dark paths. Accompanied by a fantastic musical score by Duncan Sheik (lyrics by Steven Sater), generational German oppression gives way to pounding rock, eliciting wild cheers from audience members. The seriousness of the dialogue contrasts wonderfully with the free-spirited and raucous musical score, when the actors burst into song, filled with desperate emotional intensity. Abortion, homosexuality, masturbation, rape, suicide and lots and lots of plain old sex and lust are some of the striking issues this piece explores. So prepare yourself for some heavy heartaches (complete with adult language) and leave the young kids at home.
Christy Altomare is the fresh-faced Wendla, who wants to know where babies come from. Her Mother refuses to tell her, feeling that it is not a proper topic for a young lady. Blake Bashoff (most recently on television's "Lost") is the tortured Moritz, who keeps having sex dreams and is humiliated by them. Melchior (Kyle Riabko) is his confidante and classmate, who attempts to help him understand what's happening, while pursuing Wendla. Steffi D is slightly off vocally as Ilse, the runaway, and Martha (Sarah Hunt) confesses dark family secrets in "The Dark I Know Well". The arrogant Hanschen (Andy Mientus) and the innocent Ernst (Ben Moss) explore feelings and Otto (Anthony Lee Medina) lusts after older women. Angela Reed portrays all the adult women and Henry Stram all the adult men and everyone heartily stomps and belts their hearts out.
The music definitely makes the show. Among other thought-provoking gems, the women sing the sweetly lyrical "Mama Who Bore Me" as a plaintive lament over their ignorance of how life works. The school boys sing "The Bitch of Living" (also a popular You Tube video from the 2007 Tony Awards) on the unfairness of adults and school and life. A couple's first sexual experience happens with the beautiful "I Believe" and the ensemble sings "The Song of Purple Summer" to finish the show on a powerful note. Each song is another cry of help from youth stemming directly from the perplexity of censorship. Choreographer Bill T. Jones has the cast leaping and gyrating to the dramatic score, in sync with Michael Mayer's intriguing direction. The cast members often sing out to the audience in lone spotlights and some lucky audience members get to sit directly on stage and witness the excitement close up. A spare set conveys several locations, with a few chairs and a slowly swaying hay loft. Scenic Designer Christine Jones creates a towering stage wall, with eclectic pieces haphazardly strewn about. All this effort in production puts all the focus on the fierceness of feeling.
The overall mood of the piece is bleak indeed, but the strong passion and desire in the actors voices fills us with light. And the majority of the company is strong indeed. Afterward, you might want to sit down with your teenagers and set them straight on a few things. Even in this modern era of openness, they still may have a lot to learn, since, as depicted in the show, it doesn't matter when your adolescence takes place. It's all in the title. And a MUST see.
Get the Soundtrack Here:
Spring Awakening (2006 Original Broadway Cast)
The Original:
Spring's Awakening
Jane Austen Unscripted
Impro Theatre presents
Jane Austen Unscripted
a kate west review
directed by Dan O'Connor
and Paul Rogan
produced by Matthew Quinn
running
Fri, Oct 10 – Sun, Nov 16
Fri, Sat 8pm
Sunday 7pm
Theatre Asylum
6320 Santa Monica Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90038
contact (323) 960-7753
http://www.improtheatre.com
Cast and Company: Patrick Bristow (special guest), Tracy Burns, Kari Coleman, Lisa Fredrickson, Brian Jones, Stephen Kearin, Lauren Lewis, Brian Lohmann, Nick Massouh, Jo McGinley, Dan O’Connor, Edi Patterson, Jennifer Riege, Paul Rogan, Carla Rosati, Michele Spears, Mollite Taxe, and Floyd Van Buskirk.
Impro Theatre specializes in presenting rapt audiences with such impressive improvisational feats as "Dickens Unscripted", "Tennessee Williams Unscripted", "Shakespeare Unscripted" and even "Sondheim Unscripted". The latest presentation, "Jane Austen Unscripted", is equally noteworthy, complete with gorgeous period costuming and language. Directors Dan O'Connor and John Rogan lead the brilliant troupe in bringing the celebrated author's sensibilities to life, as it were.
Company members take a couple of suggestions from the audience and spin an entire Jane Austen styled original play. One hundred percent improvised, the complex plot unfolds, hearts are won, witticisms flung and poetry recited, all in perfect synchronicity. Yes, amazingly enough, the actors are making up the entire dialogue right under your very eyes. It's like watching a Jane Austen movie that delivers a clever wink to the audience. The accomplished actors also gently acknowledge the occasional transgressions in ad-libbing, turning funny situations into even more humorous turns. The time flies by and when you are transported back to your modern era, you will want to come back for more.
The company treats their revered authors with the deepest respect, creating lines befitting the original works. Theirs is definitely an original spin, but seemingly lifted from what might have been written. Consummate professionals through and through (look up their long list of credits) , the players will make you laugh and then inspire you to read the classic works for yourself. What will they think of next? We can't wait to find out.
Austen's Works:
The Complete Novels of Jane Austen (Wordsworth Special Editions) (Special Editions)
Red Scare on Sunset
Charles Busch's
Red Scare on Sunset
a kate west review
directed by Cindy Gendrich
at the Attic Theatre
5429 W. Washington Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90016
contact 323-525-0600
www.attictheatre.org
running Sept. 11 - Oct. 18
Charles Busch, playwright, actor and drag queen extraordinaire, brings back his reflections on the 1950's Hollywood Blacklisting in "Red Scare on Sunset". Famous for such outrageouness as "Psycho Beach Party" and "Vampire Lesbians of Sodom", Busch often cast himself in the fabulously dressed female leads (www.charlesbusch.com). Filling in Charles Busch's high heeled shoes, is Drew Droege in the latest version of "Red Scare".
Droege takes on Busch's famous alter ego movie star Mary Dale, giving her his own full out drag flair. Mary's actor husband Frank Taggert (Chris Tarantino) is drawn into the Communist party against his will, subcombing to the dark Hollywood left. Best friend Pat Pilford (the delightfully fun Michelle Begley) supports Mary but still has to keep her own black secret. Mysterious Marta Towers (the rather weak Sona Tatoyan) gums up the works, making the moves on Taggert. Mary must save her husband and her career, all the while keeping herself in stylish couture. Busch tries to fit it all in - suicides and murder, sex and scandal and a reminder that even the entertainment industry can demonstrate intolerance.
The cast is unbalanced, some much weaker than others. Amy Proccaci has a few fun turns as R. G. Benson, a sharp-talking oldtime director, as does Dane Whitlock as various sexually ambiguous characters. Drew Droege and Michelle Begley are definite stand-outs, as well as being the best dressed. Some very fine delectable 1950's dresses, indeed. Director Cindy Gendrich makes some nice stage pictures and Droege has some priceless facial expressions as Mary sinks further and further into despair, to arise triumphant, strong and red-white-and-blue conservative in the end.
The company obviously enjoy their take on a Charles Busch classic and while it runs too long, it is fun to watch Droege expertly inhabit the intensely sheltered and delicate movie star who turns out to be much tougher than anyone suspected. He's the best thing about the show, pretty much. The actual story is almost secondary to showcasing that particular Charles Busch portrait.
Pictured below: Drew Droege, Michelle Begley, Chris Tarantino
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Tilted Frame
Tilted Frame
a kate west recommendation
Previews
Thursday - September 25 at 8:30 PM
Preview tickets $5.00
Performances
October 2 – November 20
Thursdays at 8:30 PM
tix $10
Theatre Asylum
6320 Santa Monica Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90038
http://www.cafearts.com/tiltedframe
Contact (323) 960-7753
Created during the .dot com era of San Francisco by C.A.F.E in 2002, Tilted Frame merges technology and entertainment with live media, live theater and the Internet. The talented cast takes suggestions from the audience and riffs, improv style, but with a technological twist. With video and computer screens, they maneuver in and out of the stage (you have to see it live to get the full effect). There are a few glitches here and there (and kudos for being able to coordinate dialogue while manipulating media), but the actors use each mistake to their advantage, joyfully pointing them out, in fact, and gaining our respect. It is obvious they are all having the time of their lives.
Directed by Groundlings alum Patrick Bristow (www.groundlings.com) and Matthew Quinn (Executive Producer). Featuring Jordan Black, Candace Brown, Dorien Davies, Jayne Entwistle, Beth Geiger, Shawn Gonzales, Michelle Johnson, Caleb Martin, Drew Massey, Carl Peterson, Amy Procacci, Colleen Smith, Kenny Stevenson, Victor Yerrid, Brennan Vetter.
Newgrange Falconry
Newgrange Falconry
a kate west recommendation
One of the most ancient sports has to be falconry. From the age of the Samurai and Medieval times to present day royalty, people have flown falcons and hawks as part of an elite partnership with nature. It may not be as blatantly popular these days as it once was, but you can still find avid pockets of enthusiasts. The birds will also rid you of pests - if you can coax them to work for you. All you need to do is to provide them the precise amount of food, keeping them just barely hungry enough to come back to you. And it's best to resist the temptation to anthropomorphize, as they will stay with you as long as they feel like it and are never guaranteed to fly back to you, which is part of the inherent risk of the sport.
If you happen to be in Eastern Ireland (and really, why wouldn't you be - it's near charming old Dublin), please look up the Newgrange Falconry. Husband and wife team Brian and Barbara McCann provide lessons for the novice and advanced student alike. They will bring the birds to you and fly a few different types all afternoon, instructing you and giving you a history lesson, along with a side order of local Irish charm. You can hire them for corporate events or even a private party. They will tailor the lesson just for you and by the end of the day, you will have made new friends, both human and raptor. It will be the experience of a lifetime to watch the birds soar freely above picturesque landscapes and Brian's passion for his work will perhaps rub off on you a bit, inspiring you to reach new heights once you float back to reality.
Nothing you've experienced will match a day with the birds and you'll be surprised to find that you've amassed incredible details on the creatures, but in a much more gratifyingly special way than a day spent in a dry lecture hall. Reading about them doesn't cut it - you must trek out to the hills and give them room to be themselves. You are guaranteed not to regret this beautiful moment with magnificent birds and warm, good company. Where else can you find that interaction in this modern life of text messaging and TIVO? So turn off your phone, shut off your engine, and be still. Listen to the wind and watch the birds. They will break your heart.
http://www.newgrangefalconry.com
My previous posting on falconry here: http://www.katewestreviews.com/2007/09/bees-and-raptors.html
Erin Go Bragh. Getting there:
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Mike Got Spiked
Mike Got Spiked
a kate west recommendation
Mike Got Spiked is a kick-ass Irish rock band, currently taking the American musical scene by storm. Consisting of Gavin McGuire (lead vocals), Conall McMahon (lead guitar, vocals), Johnny Myles (bass guitar), David Lodge (drums, vocals) and ranging from all over Eastern Ireland (County Meath, Carrickmacross, Castleblayney, Drumconrath and Dublin), they've quickly grown from a local Irish group playing pubs to an international sensation, in just a few short years, and even recently seen at Los Angeles' famous Whiskey A Go-Go on the Sunset Strip.
First formed in June 2002, enchanted critics have labeled MSG "blender music" (mixing jazz, funk, ska, rock, punk, and metal). After debuting their amazing album, "Caveat Emptor", the band claimed influences from Incubus, Ben Folds, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Alice in Chains, Pantera and Slayer, to name a few, and the sound is unmistakeably hip. Their hit "Come Dancing" was featured on Irish television's "The Ex-Files". One can only assume that their irrepressible energy will take them down the path of stardom, faster than you can say "Danny Boy". Fiercely alive and vibrantly raucous, the passion of the band will send you into a joyous rockin' frenzy and you won't be able to resist buying their ultra cool Cd's and t-shirts, available at every concert. Then you can say you knew them when.
Singles:
| 1 | All You Need | 2:55 |
| 2 | Whiskey For Me Tae | 2:21 |
Mike Got Spiked videos:
- 5 Second Heaven
- All You Need
- Aversion
- To Have You Here
- Live acoustic performance of speechless on Stim TV in Oxnard, CA. February 2007
- Live acoustic performance of speechless on NTV in Kearney, NE. November 2007
Touring America in 2009!
Ireland got real small, real fast for mike got spiked, who bagged themselves a top 30 single and international five-star reviews for debut album Caveat Emptor within a couple of years of their formation in late 2002.
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WHISKEY A-GO-GO
8901 Sunset Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90069
310-652-4202
GET HERE EARLY.
On stage 8pm. Tickets $12 advance, $15 at the door.
www.whiskyagogo.com
From their very own blog:
8901 Sunset Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90069
310-652-4202
GET HERE EARLY.
On stage 8pm. Tickets $12 advance, $15 at the door.
www.whiskyagogo.com
From their very own blog:
Ireland got real small, real fast for mike got spiked, who bagged themselves a top 30 single and international five-star reviews for debut album Caveat Emptor within a couple of years of their formation in late 2002.
America beckoned for the schizo-rock four-piece, and a slot on the 2005 Vans Warped Tour alongside the likes of My Chemical Romance, Fall Out Boy and The Dillinger Escape Plan strengthened their conviction.
Subsequent support slots with Anthrax, Head Automatica, Biffy Clyro and Kerbdog showed them they were well able to take on the best in the business, and so began an 18-month American odyssey that took in 42 states, 130,000 miles and more than 300 shows.
Now based full-time in the USA, they are signed to Los Angeles management company Associated Talent Management, who also boasts the likes of The Dead Kennedys on their roster.
Relentless touring, record sales topping 11,000 units, hundreds of thousands of MySpace plays and a top 10 slot on the Warped Tour's official download chart have predictably helped the band turn the heads of record labels.
But rather than put out on the first date, the band is still flirting outrageously with the labels hovering nearby, having turned down a couple of deals last year.
Having finally parked the van for a couple of months to write their second album - slated for release by 2009's end - the band members are now preparing themselves for an all-out assault on minds and ears in the US and beyond.
Give a listen:
www.mikegotspiked.com and www.myspace.com/mikegotspiked
Hear them live:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rq-H8IMxYAo
&
http://www.flashrock.com/tv/video/786/MIKE-GOT-SPIKED-Rock-Experimental-Alternative
Give a listen:
www.mikegotspiked.com and www.myspace.com/mikegotspiked
Hear them live:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rq-H8IMxYAo
&
http://www.flashrock.com/tv/video/786/MIKE-GOT-SPIKED-Rock-Experimental-Alternative
Beijing 2008
a kate west olympic congratulations
Congratulations to Gold Medalists:
PHELPS Michael, WEBER-GALE Garrett, JONES Cullen, LEZAK Jason, ADRIAN Nathan, WILDMAN-TOBRINER Ben, GREVERS Matt, LOCHTE Ryan, BERENS Ricky, VANDERKAAY Peter, WALTERS David, VENDT Erik, KELLER Klete, PEIRSOL Aaron, HANSEN Brendan, GREVERS Matt, GANGLOFF Mark, CROCKER Ian, WEBER-GALE Garrett, COUGHLIN Natalie, NYMEYER Lacey, JOYCE Kara Lynn, TORRES Dara, SMIT Julia, SILVER Emily, JOHNSON Shawn, LIUKIN Nastia, MEMMEL Chellsie, PESZEK Samantha, SACRAMONE Alicia, SLOAN Bridget, DIX Walter, MERRITT LaShawn, TAYLOR Angelo, NEVILLE David, WARINER Jeremy, TAYLOR Angelo, CLAY Bryan, WILLIAMS Serena, WILLIAMS Venus, ZAGUNIS Mariel, CAFARO Erin, SHOOP Lindsay, GOODALE Anna, LOGAN Elle, CUMMINS Anne, FRANCIA Susan, LIND Caroline, DAVIES Caryn, WHIPPLE Mary, CAFARO Erin, SHOOP Lindsay, GOODALE Anna, LOGAN Elle, CUMMINS Anne, FRANCIA Susan, LIND Caroline, TUNNICLIFFE Anna, WARD Mclain, KRAUT Laura, SIMPSON Will, MADDEN Beezie, ELLER Walton, HANCOCK Vincent, CEJUDO Henry, WAGNER Aly, KAI Natasha, LLOYD Carli, MARKGRAF Kate, O REILLY Heather, RAMPONE Christie, RODRIGUEZ Amy, SOLO Hope, TARPLEY Lindsay, BARNHART Nicole, BOXX Shannon, BUEHLER Rachel, CHALUPNY Lori, CHENEY Lauren, HEATH Tobin, HUCLES Angela, COX Stephanie, MITTS Heather, SONI Rebecca, ARMSTRONG Kristin, HARPER Dawn, BROWN TRAFTON Stephanie, WINEBERG Mary, FELIX Allyson, HENDERSON Monique, RICHARDS Sanya, PONDEXTER Cappie, AUGUSTUS Seimone, BIRD Sue, LAWSON Kara, MILTON-JONES Delisha, LESLIE Lisa, CATCHINGS Tamika, THOMPSON Tina, TAURASI Diana, FOWLES Sylvia, SMITH Katie, PARKER Candace, DALHAUSSER Philip, ROGERS Todd, WALSH Kerri, MAY-TREANOR Misty, BOOZER Carlos, KIDD Jason, JAMES Lebron, WILLIAMS Deron, REDD Michael, WADE Dwyane, BRYANT Kobe, HOWARD Dwight, BOSH Chris, PAUL Chris, PRINCE Tayshaun, ANTHONY Carmelo, DALHAUSSER Philip, ROGERS Todd, TOUZINSKY Scott, LAMBOURNE Richard, LEE David, MILLAR Ryan, PRIDDY William, ROONEY Sean, SALMON Riley, BALL Lloy, GARDNER Gabriel, HANSEN Kevin, HOFF Thomas, STANLEY Clayton
www.olympic.org
www.nbcolympics.com
results.beijing2008.cn
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Starbucks Fervor
Starbucks
a kate west reflection
It's about time I commented on the eternal Starbucks craze, having drunk maybe a small lake's worth of their product in my time. The phenomenon that is the coffee behemoth has now reached heights of absurdity. Not being the biggest Theater of the Absurd fan (except for my all-in-black-coffee-shop-dweller years in college), I've been rolling my eyes at every caffeinated development. Unbelievable as it may seem, as many people are now protesting the latest closing of Starbucks chain stores as were protesting the company's unstoppable encroachment and growth not too long ago. What other company can say this?!! What is it about this place that inspires such passion (a mystery addictive drug - I mean, besides caffeine)?
For those of you who don't know (I'm assuming you've been on a deserted island the past twenty years or so?) here's the short tale: First of all it's Seattle-based, the city of grunge, known for liberal viewpoints and environmentally friendly businesses for the most part. Second, you can sit and read in your local chain store, and even write in your laptop; you've entered a comforting community recognized everywhere. Where else do you want to go when it rains, but a coffee shop? (Does anyone visit libraries anymore except students?) I myself find it very convenient for blind dates since you can so easily find one based near (and far) from where you actually live. Even when you travel abroad, you can slip into the nearest Starbucks and find a haven. Not everyone thinks that's so wonderful, as we homogenize the earth more and more, but it is admittedly better than fast food and at least the stores are always clean. Individualism is still alive and well, even in the most cosmopolitan of cities, I assure you. I've traveled some.
So how did we all end up like this? Entrepreneur Howard Schultz talked the existing Starbucks company into adding espresso to their menu in 1983 and the result is sweet coffee history (why, oh why didn't my family invest, argh). And actually, he was inspired by kaffee hauses in Europe. The first non-American chain opened in 1996 (Tokyo, Japan) and now Starbucks appears virtually everywhere. So it's an established American icon which I guess "legitimizes" neighborhoods. Thus, the panic over the store closings. In this economy though, we are all suffering (except the very, very rich, who always manage just fine, even when doing illegal things, but that's another story). And just when I contemplated a part time job at my local Starbucks. Boo.
But I have a feeling that Starbucks will be alright, with the support of a loyal customer base. So don't feel too bad for this capitalist, multi-million dollar organization. Sure, some baristas are hurting, but they'll all bounce back, and come back to selling the free trade products and overpriced beverages we all know and love.
Except now I have to drive an extra five blocks to get my vanilla latte. Hate that.
p.s. Hmmm, they can even inspire millionaires, what will they think of next:
How Starbucks Saved My Life: A Son of Privilege Learns to Live Like Everyone Else
UPDATE: The above seems the least of our problems now. And I can't even comment on the current financial crisis, as I can't seem to get out of the fetal position to muster the effort to type it out. YIKES!
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