What's New!!!

The Black Guy Who Podcasts

2012-02-28T06:25:00.002-06:00

The Black Guy Who Tips is a comedy podcast that is hosted by Roderick Morrow and his wife, Karen Morrow. Since premiering in January 2010, the show has been a success averaging 2000 downloads per episodes. The podcast Facebook fan page has 2600 likes and Morrow has over 4000 followers on Twitter. The show mostly focuses on the random musings of Morrow and his wife. They discuss a variety of topics to include funny news articles, sports, and reality TV. The show also features guests like fellow podcasters, bloggers, their friends and even a few celebrities like Roy Wood, Jr. and Anthony Morrow.

Roderick Morrow was born and raised in Charlotte, N.C. He met his wife in grade school were they started out as friends until he "eventually got up the courage to show romantic interest in her." When asked about when he decided to start podcasting, Morrow says, "I think I decided to start podcasting in 2009. I was listening to Keith and the Girl which is probably my favorite podcast and I was like, 'I think I can do this, too.'" Morrow spoke about having his wife as his co-host. He said that, "Karen took a little more convincing than I did but there was never a second where I didn't think she would be my co-host."

Regarding the format of his show, Morrow says, "I used to have a blog that was dedicated to my random thoughts and odd musings." He felt that he was "good at entertaining people on the Internet with random funny jokes. So the random thoughts became the outline." Morrow and his wife record all of their shows live in one take and nothing is ever edited out. He says that, "even when we weren't doing a live show we were still doing the show as if it were live."

The Joys of Podcasting

Morrow enjoys podcasting because for him, it's an escape from the "world of office politics." He also says, "I love the feeling of creating and expressing myself." Morrow has a great appreciation for his fans, saying that, "I love the feedback we get from our audience. I'm really proud of it because behind the scenes we work for that feedback." He interacts with his listeners through email, comments and voicemail. To show his appreciation, Morrow and his wife do a feedback show once a week to give back to the audience who has made his show the success that it's become.

Episode recorded on February 25, 2012. Source: Podomatic.com

Not everything is perfect in the world of podcasting. Morrow talks about how some people have pretended to be fans of the show or his friend for the networking opportunities. He refers to this as when “the politics of office infiltrate the podcast." There have also been some run-ins with crazy fans. Of those fans Morrow says, "I don't already have time for stuff I'd like to do. Now I've inherited your issues because you like our show? I don't think so.”

Morrow appears to see no end in site when it comes to the show. As far as future plans for the podcast, he says, “ I don’t want to get into too much detail because things are always in flux. I don’t want people trying to jump ahead of us and steal our ideas. But we are always thinking of the next thing.” He did mention possibly making videos on YouTube or doing a promotional giveaway. But, Morrow is not big on planning ahead saying, “I try not to plan that far ahead. Well maybe that isn’t true. Let’s just say when you wish upon a falling star you don’t tell anyone what you wished for or it may not come true. I have chosen to share my life with the entire world but some stuff gets to stay private right?”

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Movie Spoilers 2 - Chronicle and Ghost Rider

2012-02-25T16:49:00.000-06:00

Hear me and The Phenomenal One talk about Chronicle, Ghost Rider, The Super Saiyan Kid and the Oscars. WARNING: There will be spoilers and bad attempts at comedy…

Find The Phenomenal One on Spill.com here:http://my.spill.com/profile/Jermaine178?xg_source=activity

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Episode 45 - She’s Baaaaaaaaaack!

2012-02-22T10:53:00.001-06:00

After a long hiatus and some deep soul searching I’m back with another new episode! In today’s show I talk about why I’ve been a bad podcaster not turning out shows, Harry Potter book club, Survivor, The Bachelor, The Kardashians, Jersey Shore, My Strange Addiction to My Strange Addiction, Community, Whitney Houston, Lindsay Lohan on SNL, movies I saw and will see, and the trailer for Snow White and the Huntsman.

Be sure to check out my blog here:http://whatsnewlina.blogspot.com/

Like me on Facebook here:https://www.facebook.com/WhatsNewLina

Follow me on Twitter here:https://twitter.com/#!/Whats_New_Lina

Find me on iTunes here:http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/whats-new!!!/id448783817

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

The Impromptu African Beading Event

2012-02-10T21:42:00.003-06:00

Taken by: Lina

Since February is Black History Month, there are many events and activities being held throughout the Hampton Roads area to celebrate. Some activities involve putting up displays like the highway markers that note important people, places and events in the region's history. Other events are more interactive, such as the celebration of African Folktales with storyteller Eunice Jones at the Barron F. Black Branch Library on Feb 7 at 10 a.m. However, due to a medical emergency, Eunice Jones was unable to make it. So instead, one of the library Youth Associates improvised an African Beading class. Even with the last minute changes, it was enjoyable to all who attended.

Though this was the first time the Youth Associate ran this activity, she still had some interesting information on the tradition of African beading. She mentioned that the beads could indicate social status and that they could be worn in a person’s hair or around the wrist as a bracelet. For this event, the participants were given an elastic string and a variety of beads to make bracelets with. By the end, everyone had bracelets that were made with wooden beads, colorful glass beads, or both.

Taken by: Lina

The audience consisted mainly of residents of the Sentara Village, which is an assisted living facility in Norfolk, Va. and part of “the top integrated healthcare networks (IHN) in the country” according to Modern Healthcare Magazine. Many of them were senior citizens and some needed extra help making their bracelets. Though they were brought to the library initially to hear the African folktales, they were fine with having an early start to their arts and craft activity that was to be held again later back at the living facility.

Taken by: Lina

During the second half of the event, a library volunteer named Brian Askew joined in to assist the participants with making the bracelets. He was named volunteer of the month in December of 2011 and currently works mainly with children to help keep them out of trouble. He is looking to do more volunteer to work with senior citizens as well. When asked about the event, he said, “I think today’s event was a blast. I enjoyed it. I like helping people.” He mentioned that he has been volunteering for 7 years now, and that it is important for people to know “there is help out here in Norfolk.”

Movie Spoilers 1 - The Devil Inside and The Woman in Black

2012-02-05T19:57:00.000-06:00

In today’s show, The Phenomenal One and I discusss and spoil the hell out of The Devil Inside and The Woman in Black.

WARNING: Do NOT listen if you don’t want these movies spoiled for you.

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Is Cable TV on its Way Out?

2012-02-05T18:18:00.002-06:00

http://heresthethingblog.com/

According to Drew Bowling of WebProNews, there is a growing trend in the United States of people cancelling their cable subscription because they can watch their favorite shows online for free or for very cheap. Based on a survey conducted by Deliotte, an accounting firm that follows media business trends, 9 percent of people have canceled their cable subscriptions, 11 percent are considering it and 15 percent will likely watch movies and TV programs from a streaming service like Netflix.

There may be more competition for cable TV in the form of original online content. According to Jake Coyle of the Huffington Post, YouTube, Netflix, and Hulu will soon begin to debut their original programming. These programs will focus on short-form, on-demand entertainment. Netflix will even release entire seasons of shows all at once, so that viewers will be able to watch as much of one show as they want at their convenience. Original online content has already proven to be a huge draw, with Yahoo attracting 26 million unique visitors in November alone.

This trend of people canceling their cable subscriptions is being felt in the Hampton Roads area. Daycia Leppert of Virginia Beach, Virginia says, “Cable is way too expensive, I am not paying $100 a month for something I probably won't watch that often.” In order for her to even consider going back to cable the local companies “could lower their prices.” She watches her favorite TV shows online using web sites like Hulu, stating that, “Hulu is awesome! I can watch all my fave shows on there whenever I want.” When asked about online-only original content, she said, “That sounds cool, hopefully the programming will be something interesting.”

Not all Hampton Roads residents are canceling their cable. William Rose of Newport News, Virginia is one resident who has two cable boxes in his home. He says, “I enjoy HD and watching television and not having those in my home was not an option.” He goes on to say that “Cable is worth it, in my opinion because it provides phone, Internet and television services which in today's technological arena are must have services.” When asked about watching his favorite TV shows online, William states, “I haven't considered just watching shows online or Netflix. Netflix and online television are very secondary in my viewing preferences and watching movies on a computer doesn't excite me at all.” In his opinion, “Online programming just does not interest me. I love big screens and the best quality picture possible and the Internet does not provide those.”

Ronda Carrington of Virginia Beach echoes William’s sentiment. She says, “I’ve always subscribed to cable, which in the beginning was for better reception and more channels and now it’s more for the DVR option to be able to watch what I want when I want.” When it come to watching TV online, she states, “Watching shows online is okay if I miss something, but I’d rather sit in my recliner or lie in bed and watch television. A 50 inch or more computer or laptop would be a bit much, I prefer to relax and watch shows on a big screen.” Ronda has no plans to cancel her service in the near future, saying that, “For now I don’t think I'm ready to cancel my cable. The price is a bit much, but worth it for now.”

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Poor Former Disney Stars

2012-01-15T19:39:00.002-06:00

http://blingee.com

Why don’t Disney stars go on to have mainstream success once they move on from the roles that made them famous. Since Miley Cyrus said goodbye to Hannah Montana, she’s starred in The Last Song, which received 20 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. After filming the High School Musical movie series, Vanessa Hudgens has been in three movies (Bandslam, Beastly, and Sucker Punch) that have had modest financial success. Raven-Symoné was in one movie (College Road Trip) that received 13 percent on Rotten Tomatoes after her role in “That’s So Raven.” She also starred in a TV show, “State of Georgia,” that was cancelled after one season. Selena Gomez is about to be the latest Disney cast-off. Will she be able to break the trend?

http://pixart24x7.blogspot.com/2011/09/selena-gomez-2011-people-choice-awards.html

Possibly the last image of Selena Gomez being relevant...

Probably not. According to Entertainment Weekly, her albums “have struggled to reach true mainstream-hit status.” Like the previously mentioned actresses, the movies she’s starred in, Monte Carlo and Ramona and Beezus, have only been modestly successful. Why haven’t these actresses reached true mainstream super-star status? Here are a few possible reasons:

1. Super Young Fan Base: While their time at Disney gives them a built-in fan base, those fans are usually very young. That limits what kind of movies they can do. They can’t be in anything to risqué. But if they want mainstream success, they can’t be in anything too immature.

http://justjaredjr.buzznet.com/photo-gallery/383306/raven-symone-picnic-park-03/
So any of you old enough to drink? Anyone...?

2. Limited Talent: It may be a simple lack of talent. Roles in Disney shows don’t exactly require an acting range. If you’ve watched any them, you know most of the acting involves talking loudly, making faces, and flailing limbs. It may be that these actresses can’t do much beyond that.

This video is completely accurate.

3. Constant Controversy: Hudgens and Cyrus have been in trouble for either nude pictures or possible drug use. Because they’ve painted themselves into a corner by their clean Disney image, it turns even the most minor offense into a huge deal.

http://www.mamarazzi.org/2011/04/vanessa-hudgens-is-our-favorit.html
Pictured: Smart career move

Maybe Selena Gomez will overcome these challenges and be the first to attain true success. Dating Justin Bieber doesn’t hurt. Otherwise the best she can hope for is playing the parent in a future Disney show.

http://www.peoplestylewatch.com/people/stylewatch/package/article/0,,20449766_20469564,00.html
At this point she should just marry him so as to not fade into oblivion...

Episode 44 - Justin Bieber is NOT going to be in a Back to the Future Remake. Thank GOD!!!

2012-01-12T20:53:00.000-06:00

In today’s show I talk about why Harry Potter Lego sets are awesome, The Bachelor, Kourtney and Kim, Fear Factor, Jersey Shore, I Cloned My Pet, Community, Glee, Beyonce’s and Jay-Z’s baby ruining people’s day, Dark Knight Rises, Justin Bieber rumor, and comments!!!

Check out Maggie Kay’s Horror Movie Blog:http://maggiekaypresents.blogspot.com/?m=0

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Episode 43 - I get it! My taste in movies suck.

2012-01-05T20:46:00.001-06:00

What up??? In today’s show I talk about the update in Harry Potter companion, this awesome site called Red Letter Media, the premiere of The Bachelor, Kourtney and Kim, Fear Factor, Punk’d coming back, So You Think You Can Dance doing away with the result show, how I suffered through..um..I mean watched the pilot episode of Work It, Katy Perry and Russel Brand divorcing, celebrities trying to be smarter about Tweeting, the trailer for Avengers, sequels for Paranormal Activity and Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, and comments! So much time and so little to talk about!!!!

Red Letter Media Plinkett Reviews:http://redlettermedia.com/plinkett/

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Best and Worst Movies of 2011 Special!!! Part 2

2012-01-02T17:48:00.000-06:00

Here is the dramatic conclusion of Part 1. The Phenomenal One and I discuss the worst movies of the year, which movies of 2012 we are excited about and which ones we will be avoiding at all costs. We also take some time to read emails and comments.

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Best and Worst Movies of 2011 Special!!! Part 1

2012-01-01T20:07:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year! This is the long awaited special I kept talking about. This is Part 1 where me and The Phenomenal One talk about the best movies we have seen this year. SPOILER ALERT! We will be giving away some major plot points.

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

The Darkest Hour Review

2011-12-30T09:57:00.000-06:00

14% on Rotten Tomatoes. That is the rating I saw for The Darkest Hour before going to see it. I figured this movie wouldn’t be good since scary movies dumped at the end of the year rarely are. This rating only confirmed my suspicions. But even with all that, I was still shocked at just how bad it ended up being. It was laughably bad. The acting was terrible. There was never any sense of tension. There were no scares at all. And the ending...well if you make it to the ending you will be disappointed there too.

Turns out is was all a dream. Not really. But that would have been a better ending.

It’s hard to know where to begin with such a train wreck of a movie. So let’s start with the plot. Two American software developers on a business trip to Russia find out that there idea for a phone app has been stolen by some business guy jerk. While out at night trying to recover from this blow, the Americans meet up with some female tourist and then all hell breaks lose. The power goes out and the alien invasion begins. I will give the movie this. The idea for these aliens is kinda cool. They are invisible fields of energy that obliterate you if you get too close. They can be detected if they are near an electrical item. This could have made for an interesting movie. Especially since it takes place in Russia, which is not a location I think I have seen a sci-fi type movie take place before. But the interesting ideas are completely wasted.

Pictured: Interesting idea…in the background. Being completely wasted.

The direction and script are what really kills this movie. The actors are given damn near nothing to do but run around looking confused. Whenever someone died, I didn’t care since the characters were pretty much interchangeable. Also, as I mentioned before, there is no sense of tension when the aliens arrive. I was never on edge or scared of them. They would just show up, cause some destruction and leave. There was little to no build up and absolutely no pay off.

ACTING!!!!

While I do enjoy a “good" bad movie on occasion, I get very annoyed when an interesting idea for a story is ruined by filmmakers who seemed like they could care less. It’s what happened with Apollo 18. A great idea that never realizes it’s full potential. What could have been an interesting take on the alien invasion genre ends up being tired and lame. So I implore you, don’t make the same mistake I did. Don’t go see this movie. You will rue the day you ever did.

Because it’s a terrible place to make a “found footage” movie.

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Episode 42 - Reusable……toilet paper?!?!?!?!?!

2011-12-29T13:56:00.000-06:00

In the last show of 2011, I talk about a new post on the Harry Potter Companion site, Michelle Duggar’s bad news, Extreme Cheapskate, why there will never be a Fresh Prince of Bel Air reunion, a fun surprise for a fan at a karaoke bar, trouble for Katy Perry and Russell Brand, the trailer for The Lorax, and more about the upcoming Best/Worst Movie of 2011 special.

Check out The Marauders Page on HP Companion:http://hpcompanion.com/oc/ocm/

Email me those movie lists at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com !

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Episode 41 - Taylor is neither Out nor is he Proud

2011-12-27T13:10:00.001-06:00

In today’s post Xmas hangover, I talk about Pottemore some more, The Bachelor, Scott wanting to leave Kourtney, Bill Maher making fun of Tebow, The Polar Express, TinTin, Dragon Tattoo not doing so well, Trailor for Prometheus (which is NOT another Aliens movie,
whoops!) and more about my upcoming movie special.

Totally Fake!

Check out Less Than Reality’s awesome blog post about Scott Disick:http://www.lessthanreality.com/2011/12/scott-disick-reportedly-wants-to-leave.html

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

The Adventures of TinTin Review

2011-12-24T11:00:00.000-06:00

I think I should first point out that I’ve never read the TinTin comics or watch the cartoon. To show you how little I knew about TinTin, I thought it was the name of the dog. But when I saw the trailer and saw it was directed by Steven Spielberg, I thought what the hell? This property is popular for a reason and it’s in the hands of a competent director. What could go wrong? Well, a lot apparently. This movie wasn’t necessarily bad, but like Sherlock Homes 2 (my review for it here) it suffers from having a plot where the stakes are not clear for much of the movie. To the point where the action set pieces, while marvelous to look at, seem ultimately boring and time consuming.

Oh no. Now both of the ships are on fire. *audible yawn*

I feel like I’m beating a dead horse, but I cannot stress enough the importance of story telling to me. Before we get to the action, I need to know why I should care about the characters. I need to know what the journey is and what will happen if the goal is not reached. And for most of TinTin these elements were not really addressed. I guess the point was to create an air of mystery, but the mystery was not intriguing. The basic plot is that when TinTin buys a model of a ship, he is immediately confronted by men who want it and threaten him for it. TinTin later discovers that the ship has some historical significance involving a cursed family line. And then it just goes on from there and by the time I found out why everything is happening I just didn't care anymore.

Wow! Everything is so mysterious!

Like I said before the movie looks amazing. This movie was made using motion capture and you can really see how far the technology has come since The Polar Express. Most of the characters didn’t have that dead behind the eyes looks and the movements were all very fluid. The action scenes looked amazing and was very well choreographed. And most of the voice actors did well with the small exception of Simon Pegg and Nick Frost. Most people would know this pair as the main characters in Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz. I was excited to see that they were in this movie to provide the comedic relief. But the characters they played, Thompson and Thomson, were not funny at all. You could barely tell it was Pegg and Frost and none of their great comedic abilities shone through.

Pictured: Thompson and Thomson not being funny.

So should you see this movie? Well...it depends. If you are a fan of the cartoon and comics then you will likely enjoy this as I hear it is accurate to the series. But if like me, you were never a fan, then skip it. I grew very restless during this movie and began playing with my phone towards the end. (I know! I know! But the brightness was turned all the way down and it was on silent. So stop judging me!) The ending leaves things wide open for a sequel. If the movie does well, this will likely be just the beginning of a franchise, however this will be the first and last TinTin movie I will ever see. These stories are not for me.

Now if the next movie throws in some casual racism that this series is known for, well, that might make for an interesting story!

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Episode 40 - People Embarrassing the Tidewater Area

2011-12-22T20:23:00.000-06:00

In today’s show I talk about PETA being mad at Mario, 30 Rock coming back, SNL getting in trouble for the Tebow sketch, Kris Humphries getting booed at his first basketball game, seeing TinTin, upcoming movies I’m going to watch, trailer for Hobbit, and comments!!!

Be sure to check out Mike’s movie reviews on YouTube here:http://www.youtube.com/user/ReviewKingMB#p/u

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Episode 39 - No, I do NOT want to 'Work It'

2011-12-20T12:02:00.001-06:00

In today’s show I talk about Timeline on Facebook, why Tumblr is good for Harry Potter fans, awesome host for SNL next month, Survivor finale, Kardashian stuff, Fear Factor, GLAAD possibly being too sensitive, what I thought about Sherlock Holmes 2 and Mission Impossible 4, what movies I’ll see this week, trailer for 21 Jump Street, and more about my upcoming movie spectacularrrr!

The page for ABC’s new crappy comedy Work It:http://beta.abc.go.com/shows/work-i

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows Review

2011-12-19T16:29:00.000-06:00

I saw the first Guy Ritchie directed Sherlock Holmes movie when it came out in 2009. It was enjoyable but ultimately forgettable. Now that I have seen the sequel, Sherlock Holmes: Game of Shadows, I can say the same thing about this one. It’s not for a lack of action or for a lack of good acting. I don’t know what it is about these movies, but so far I am always relieved when the credits start rolling and I can finally go home.

Gah! Just end already!!!

I don’t believe the movie’s shortcomings have anything to do with the leads, Robert Downey, Jr. as Holmes and Jude Love (soooooo hotttt) as Dr. Watson. They’re both engaging and have great chemistry together. For me where this and the last movie failed is that there is so much going on and so much plot that at some point I simply stopped caring about the stakes. In fact for much of the movie, I wasn’t entirely sure what the stakes actually were. I get that the movie has to be so involved because you are seeing everything from Holmes’ point of view, which is obsessively detailed. But I feel that a director more skilled in storytelling could have made it work.

Ok so now they have to have tea because there might be a clue…..or the bad guy is now…..and that woman is……I don’t know what’s happening.

There’s a lot of action in this movie and it’s just ok. I know I’ve written in the distant past that I’m not a big fan of action. But that’s not to say that I don’t appreciate it when it’s done well. For me, action is good when the stakes are clear and I genuinely care about the characters involved. For example, in Sucker Punch, there is so much action that if it were all taken out, the movie would be about 15 minutes long. And yet even though the scenes were done well, I didn’t care at all. Yet in Mission Impossible 4, the action had me on edge the entire time and I was worried about the outcome. Holmes feels more in line with Sucker Punch though not nearly as bad.

But then again, nothing can ever be as bad as this piece of crap. I liked the costumes, though...

So should you see this movie? Well if you enjoyed the first then by all means go see it. You will get much of the same. But if you only just liked the first, then maybe wait for the rental. And if you didn’t like the first at all, avoid this movie at all costs, lest ye be tempted to murder all in sight. And you wouldn’t want mass murder on your conscious, now would you?

If you are tempted to kill, just think of Jude Law’s face and all will be well.

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol Review

2011-12-17T15:26:00.000-06:00

I'm not a big action movie fan, being a woman and all. I'm also not a big fan of Tom Cruise, the scientology thing creeps me out. But Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol was one of the more enjoyable movies I have seen this year. There was action, suspense, comic relief, and gratuitous cleavage all in IMAX. So that made things extra explode-y. I haven’t even seen the first 2 MI's but you really don't need to. This movie does well as it's own thing. You wouldn't even guess it was part of a franchise.

Explode-y!!! It’s a technical term.

I’m going to do my best to explain the plot. Here goes: Russia! Explosions! Dubai! Sand Storm! India! Boobs! Magnets! Nuclear Weapons! Yeah. That’s about all I can remember. But that’s ok because every bit of it was awesome. What really makes the movies is the amazing cast. Of course there is Tom Cruise back as Ethan Hunt. There’s also the always funny Simon Pegg as Benji, Jeremy Renner as Brandt and Paula Patton as Jane.

Tom Cruise: You guys can be in the picture, but only I may look unto the camera. You avert your eyes! In fact, wear these goddamn sunglasses!!!

Cruise did a great job of playing the world-weary veteran. Say what you will about his personal life, strange it may be, but there is a reason why he’s a star and has been one for over 20 years. Pegg is great as the nerdy computer guy who always has a funny line for the tense moments. And it’s actually funny, not annoying like some comedic reliefs can be. Renner was great as the “new” guy and it was nice seeing him in something that was not so serious. For the most part he is known for intense movies like The Hurt Locker and The Town. The only member of the cast that was lacking in anyway for me was Patton. This might be because her role just wasn’t as well written as the other characters. But, honestly her part could have been played by any “pretty actress” type. Which is a shame since she was so good in Precious.

Her boobs look good, though.

So in conclusion, go see this movie! It was the most fun I’ve had watching a movie in a long time. It was nice to finally see something and not regret it. The plot is not perfect and you will have to suspend belief at some points but you won’t care because the rest of the movie more than makes up for it. I hear rumor (Spill.com’s audio review for MI4) that Jeremy Renner will be taking over as lead in the Mission Impossible series. I hope that’s true because at this point, I am ready for another one and he would make an incredible lead.

Mission Impossible 5: Please Tom, don’t kill me for taking your franchise

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Episode 38 - The Holy Church of Survivor Hour of Power

2011-12-15T17:06:00.001-06:00

In today’s show I talk about Wizard’s Duel, Survivor, Fear Factor, Reality TV going too far, 15 Biggest TV stories of the year (according to EW.com, Palin’s show getting the shaft, Paris Jackson appearing in pictures, Sulu hating on Twilight, wishing Paula and Simon stop talking about sex, G.I. Joe 2 trailer, and upcoming movies!

Be sure to check out this article on reality TV going too far:http://theclicker.today.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/12/12/9313878-expert-warns-reality-tv-will-soon-go-too-far

Be sure to follow FromPage2Screen’s host Harold on Twitter at @FP2S_Harold

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Episode 37 - Is she really that stupid???

2011-12-12T17:22:00.000-06:00

On todays’s show I talk about a survey being conducted by Pottermore, America’s Next Top Model being rigged, The Bachelor, Kris Humphries being actually stupid, Fear Factor, The Hangover 3, weekend movies, Men in Black 3, and comments!!!!

Take that Pottermore survey here:https://www.research.net/s/pottermore_booksurvey

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Why The Bachelor/Bachelorette Doesn’t Work

2011-12-11T14:53:00.000-06:00

As some of you may already know, Ali Fedotowsky (from the 6^th season of The Bachelorette) broke up with Roberto Martinez, the man she ended up choosing at the end of her season. While it was somewhat surprising since the breakup happened 18 months after they got together, which is a pretty good run, it certainly wasn’t shocking. The Bachelor and it’s spinoff The Bachelorette has had a terrible track record when it comes to having the contestants actually find lasting love. Out of the combined 22 seasons of both shows only one, ONE, couple (Trista Rehn and Ryan Sutter from the first season of The Bachelorette) has made it to the end of the season, proposed, and got married. (I’m not counting Jason Mesnick and Molly Malaney. Even though they are happily married, Molly was the runner-up)

It was really classy of you to dump Melissa on national TV. I’m sure it couldn’t have waited until after.

So why don’t these relationships ever work out? It seems like Trista and Ryan’s relationship is the rare exception, not the rule. They just got lucky and happened to actually be right for each other. Everyone else, not so much. So what is the problem? In light of the new season of The Bachelor coming up (Jan 2^nd, can’t wait!!!) I have come up with a list of 10 reasons why these relationships never work out:

Trista and Ryan! Beating the odds since 2003. Maybe we can hope for a nasty divorce???

1. Casting – I don’t know how much the producers of the show take into account what the bachelor or bachelorette is looking for, but it seems to me like they just cast pretty much any single (but not always) person in their 20’s and early 30’s. That’s it. Little to no regard is made on whether or not any of these people are actually compatible with the bachelor/bachelorette. I mean I get that at the end of the day it’s a TV show so of course they are going to try and include as many insane contestants as possible. But it’s still somewhat cruel to include people who clearly have no intention of trying to find love, like with Bentley in the 7^th season of The Bachelorette. For a show that tries to advertise itself as a way for people to find love, it sure does a bad job of making sure they only cast people who are looking for just that.

I’m a psychopath. Should I have told the producers…?

2. Location, Location, Location – I find when dating someone, it helps a lot if they live in the same city I do. But with this show, it seems like the producers go out of there way to cast people from all over the US and Canada. So when the show finally comes to an end, one of the contestants (usually the woman) will have to drop everything and move to a new location, have to find a new job, and have to leave behind everyone they know. Most relationships usually don’t start with a major life decision like that. So I can imagine that the stress of having to start a whole new life must wear on these people. I think it would make more sense to try and cast people from the same area. One year could be L.A. The next New York then Chicago. That was no one has to make a big move.

Emily: So you’re going to need me to move from my hometown, away from my job, family and friends and take my daughter away from the only home she’s ever known? Ok. Shouldn’t be a problem.

3. Unrealistic Dates – I don’t know about you but when I have gone on dates in the past, it’s usually something like a dinner and a movie. Sometimes it’s something more like going to a theme park, but more often then not it’s something simple. Not private jet rides to Vegas, flash mobs, or appearing in a PSA. Those are not real dates. That’s a honeymoon. I mean, anyone would feel like they were falling in love if they were going to these amazing locations with an attractive person and not having to pay for any of it. Without the stress of everyday life, worrying about money and work schedules, it can be real easy to feel like you are falling for someone that you’re sharing these incredible experiences with. But when that is all done and over with, are you still going to want to be with that person? The answer, as we have seen, is no.

So will the private jet be an every week thing or just for special occasions?

4. Competition – I’m sure there are many occasions of some competition when it comes to dating. You go out to a bar or club, see a guy/girl you like and may have to compete a bit for his/her attention. But you will never find yourself on a date, with 1-9 other people all trying to get some alone time. But that’s how it goes on this show. Then the contestants have to wonder, “Am I trying so hard to impress him/her because I really like him, or because I want to ‘win.’” I think that’s what keeps many of the contestants on the show. Not the fact that they actually like the Bachelor/Bachelorette, but that they want him/her to like them more then the other contestants.

Dude with glasses: Is it weird that this isn’t my first group date?

5. Cameras Everywhere – How can anyone expect to be their self when they know they are being watched all the time? I know if I had cameras in my face I would be on my best behavior. The whole point of dating is to learn all you can about the other person, the good and the bad. If you only see the good and the edited version of the bad, then how do you know if you really love that person? I’m sure that when the cameras stop rolling and they finally get to see who it is they are engaged to, it’s a nasty surprise.

Make sure to only shoot me from my right. That’s my best make-out angle.

6. Short Time Frame – The contestants only spend about 6 weeks getting to know each other, and not really because during that whole time they may spend a grand total of a week together. 6 weeks is just not enough time to know for sure that you want to marry a person. It’s not enough time to really learn about who that person is. Which is why when the show is done, and they spend more time together, they finally realize that this person would not have made it to a second date.

After 3 days, we knew it was love!

7. Media Attention – The media does not make things any easier. All the interviews, and the promise of a televised wedding, and the paparazzi are not what a brand new relationship needs. Not to mention it is added pressure to make things work, which only serves to put more stress into the relationship. There are also the eventual rumors of infidelity, interviews from past lovers, and the fact that one of the contestants might be there because they just want the media attention. Few relationships could survive that.

Ashley: I know you’re now dead on the inside but smile! This is for People!

8. Re-Watching the Show – Past “winners” have mentioned then when the show finally airs, it can bring more stress. It’s hard for them to see their fiancé tell all the other men/women how much they care about them or make out with them. I can imagine it cheapens any special moment they had on the show. So then they start to question if it was real or just something they said to everyone. I know I would not want to watch videos of my boyfriend’s past dates and relationships. Something like that will just make every line, conversation, or kiss seem like it did not mean anything.

Nothing like watching your fiancé make-out with another woman 5 mins after telling you that you’re the one.

9. Alcohol – One thing reality shows are good at doing is keeping a steady supply of alcohol ready for the contestants to drink. And it’s not hard to see why. Drunken contestants make for better television. But when every date and cocktail party starts off with everyone getting buzzed or worse, how can you be sure you are getting to know the real person, or just who that person is when they are drinking. I have known lots of people who acted differently when they had a few drinks in them. Spending most of your time with someone when they have been drinking is no way to meet a spouse.

Ali: So now that everyone is nice and liquored up, let’s get to know each other. Who’s first?

10. Keeping the Secret – Once the show finishes recording and a “winner” is chosen, the couple must then spend the next few months in secret so as to not give away the ending of the show. In this day and age, it’s next to impossible to keep anything secret. So that is yet another added stress. That means the couple can’t be seen in public. If they want to meet up they have to coordinate it with the show. Or in some cases simply spend months without each other until the show has ended. By then they may have had enough time to realize that they are not right for each other at all.

We can’t be seen in public for the next several months. This won’t end badly.

So there it is. 10 reasons why couples from The Bachelor/Bachelorette never last. I could probably go on and on but you get the idea. And yet people still apply to the show thinking that this is somehow their last chance at finding love. Believe me, it’s not the worst thing in the world to be single. But if finding love is that important to you, then be patient and for god sake’s don’t go on a reality TV show to find it. I know I wouldn’t want my relationship broadcast on national TV. But hey, if you’re dumb enough to think it’s a good idea, then I will be dumb enough to watch and criticize you the entire time. It’s the American way!

Whose got a rose and is ready for round two??? This guy!

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

The Sitter Review

2011-12-10T12:17:00.000-06:00

I really like Jonah Hill. I’ve been a fan ever since I first saw him in Accepted. He always has the best lines. Or maybe his lines aren’t any better then anyone else’s, maybe it’s his delivery. Either way, he’s always great. Which is why when I saw the trailer for The Sitter I thought this movie could be good. After all, Get Him To The Greek, Superbad, and Funny People are all movies his been fantastic in. But in this movie, he was just ok.

Does anyone else think Jonah looks weird since he lost weight??? Seriously, weight loss does not suit him.

I don’t think this is Jonah Hill’s fault. I know he can be funny. I think the main issue is with the overall story and script. The basic plot is Noah (Hill),a college drop out slacker, finds himself having to babysit 3 kids through a series of plot contrivance that I don’t care to get into. They are Blith (Landry Bender) who’s a celebutante wannabe, Slater (Max Records) who has some “closeted” anxiety issues, and Rodrigo (Kevin Hernandez) who is the adopted ethnic stereotype. Then when Noah gets a call from a girl he wants to date promising sex in return for getting her some cocaine, he drags the kids out of the house and sets out on a wacky adventure involving drug dealers, street thugs (a.k.a. black people), daddy issues, Bat Mitzvahs, etc. It goes on and on with each set piece starting with him losing a child, finding said child, then having a heart-to-heart with child.

Isn’t possible child abduction funny???

The problem is not with any of the actors who all do the best they can with the material. The problem is that the story is just not that funny or interesting. It’s a bunch of recycled bits that I have seen done better in other movies. There’s white guy trying to fit in with black people bit. The whole foul-mouthed child bit. The whole putting children in adult situations bit. It’s all been done before to greater effect in other movies. And then with all the craziness, the movie takes a weird detour and tries to pull some emotional strings. By this point I was so bored that I was angry this movie was now asking me to care about these characters. I was like really? Now you are going to try and make me cry when you failed to make me laugh?

Oh no you don’t! Don’t you dare try and make me care! Rhyme not intended…

So in conclusion, save your time and your money and don’t go see this film. It is a sad waste of comedic potential. I was hoping for something new and interesting and I got tired and lame. That’s a shame that all of that talent (J.B. Smoove and Sam Rockwell are also in this movie) was used so poorly. It’s like the director, David Gordon Green, didn’t know what to do with these performers. But then again his last film was Your Highness, so I shouldn’t be surprised that this was crap, too.

This was awful. Just……AWFUL!

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

FromPage2Screen Extra Helpings

2011-12-09T15:58:00.000-06:00

This is the conversation I had with Harold a.k.a. @BigPimpinSFLA on FromPage2Screen on 22 Nov 2011. We talk about Twilight, Vampire movies, and more!

Be sure to check out FromPage2Screen:http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/frompage2screens-media-movies/id421475326?ign-mpt=uo%3D4

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Episode 36 - There will never be a time to let go of Harry Potter! NEVER!!!

2011-12-08T18:05:00.001-06:00

In today’s show I talk about my busy week, news about the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, America’s Next Top Model, Survivor, The Bachelor’s bare naked ass, Kristen Wigg not leaving SNL, how people should start watching Community, the atrocious 3 Stooges Trailer, and movies coming out this weekend!

Watch The Bachelor Promo here:http://insidetv.ew.com/2011/12/07/bachelor-promo-bens-butt/

Watch the 3 Stooges trailer here:

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Episode 35 - Curiously crawling my Christmas curves into Santa Land….WTF???

2011-12-05T15:34:00.000-06:00

On today’s show I give out a lot of well deserved shout outs, talk about The Harry Potter Companion site, Pottermore, the…..sigh….Kardashians, Michael Jackson’s kids, Anna Nicole Smith’s daughter, Courtney Stodden’s Twitter, Michelle Trachenberg almost being Bella, and a bit about my upcoming Best/Worst Movies of 2011 Special.

The Player Hater Podcast:http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/sex-games-bs-w-the-player-hater/id308916321?ign-mpt=uo%3D4

FromPage2Screen Podcast: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/frompage2screens-media-movies/id421475326?ign-mpt=uo%3D4

The Black Guy Who Tips Podcast: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-black-guy-who-tips-podcast/id349830668?ign-mpt=uo%3D4

Mr. Moody’s Neighborhood Podcast: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/mr.-moodys-neighborhood-presented/id482957541?ign-mpt=uo%3D4

Escape from Imaginationland Podcast: http://imaginationland.podomatic.com/

Follow Courtney Stodden’s insane Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/CourtneyStodden

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Episode 34 - I didn’t want to watch! God help me I didn't want to watch…...

2011-12-01T12:57:00.000-06:00

Hey hey hey! In today’s show I talk about what I want for Christmas, an awesome Facebook page for Harry Potter fans, a new podcast to check out, America’s Next Top Model, Survivor, a show that must not be named (but it starts with a K and rhymes with flartashian) 7 TV shows past their prime, the death of Patrice O’Neal, and how nothing is coming out this week in the movies, what gives?

Be sure to check out this new podcast:http://imaginationland.podomatic.com/

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

The Muppets Review

2011-11-30T11:08:00.000-06:00

I had high hopes for this movie when I saw the episode of Saturday Night Live hosted by Jason Segel. During his opening monologue, he had the Muppets come out and sing with him and the whole bit was really funny. So funny that it was what made me want to see The Muppets when before I was probably going to pass. But unfortunately that opening monologue was much more enjoyable then the entire Muppet film.

You guys tricked me!!!!

I really feel that the 98% rating on Rotten Tomatoes is being extremely generous. Its not that it was bad, it was mostly just meh. The overall plot is Gary (Jason Segel), his brother Walter ( a new muppet) and Gary’s girlfriend, Mary (Amy Adams) all take a trip to Los Angeles so that they can visit the old Muppet Theater. When they discover that the theater is in shambles and in danger of being destroyed, they find Kermit The Frog and convince him to gather the old gang and put on a show so they can raise enough money to save the theater. There are musical numbers along the way, most of which are just ok. The movie is at its best when it’s just focusing on the Muppets. It drags is when the focus on the human characters and Walter.

I didn’t want to see a movie about you!

I’ve enjoyed Segel in other movies but in this he was mostly unnecessary. Same goes for the wasted Amy Adams, who was fun to watch but her character only served to pad the plot. And then there is the new Muppet Walter who is completely forgettable. Why introduce three new characters when it could have easily just started with Kermit finding out about losing the theater and then him going on his own to get the old gang back together. If the movie had just done that, then it could have focused on all of the Muppets instead of just a few. Hell, poor Gonzo barely gets any screen time at all.

Screen Time Total: 36 1/2 seconds

If you are a long time fan of the Muppets, then this movie is worth a look if only to see them again in something new. But if you have never seen a Muppet movie or never been a fan in the first place, then I do not recomende this being your first exposure to them. Instead go rent/NetFlix an older Muppet movie like The Muppet Movie or my personal favorite, Muppet Treasure Island. The Muppets are great and deserved to be in a better movie then this. Mahna Mahna!

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Episode 33 - I did NOT like the ending of Pretty in Pink

2011-11-28T11:04:00.000-06:00

On today’s show I talk about Dancing with The Stars, Ali and Roberto breaking up (oh no!), Mila Kunis being down-to-Earth, Justin Beiber’s continuing baby mama drama, Miley Cyrus being a stoner, the ending of Pretty in Pink, seeing The Muppets, Christian Bale not being Batman anymore, and Happy Feet 2 being so bad, that people are losing their jobs over it.

Be sure to check out The Black Guy Who Tips podcast here:http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-black-guy-who-tips-podcast/id349830668?ign-mpt=uo%3D4

The Awesome Harry Potter Fan Fic I found:

“It was no surprise that Albus Severus Potter liked to roam the corridors. He liked exploring the castle and after his brother had nicked the Marauders Map from their dads’ desk, Albus had been wandering all about the castle. On one of his journeys, his path led him to a long stretch of corridor with no paintings, except that of a beach landscape. Lounging in full wizards robes, on the beach, rubbing sunscreen on his nose, was Albus Dumbledore. The boy was so excited that he immediately ran over to the painting and stood awkwardly, trying to get the occupants’ attention. Finally, after clearing his throat, Dumbledore turned. “Why hello, may I help you with something?” The boy just smiled, “You’re Dumbledore, right?” The older man matched the boys’ smile, “Indeed I am.” Albus Severus was thrilled, “I’m named after you, and another Hogwarts professor.” Dumbledore beamed, “Ah, so you are Harrys’ son? Albus? Who is the other headmaster?” Though he already knew the answer. “Severus Snape. I’ve been hoping to meet him too, but I don’t know where to find him.” The boy said sadly. With a wink, Dumbledore walked from the painting, leaving the boy very confused. However, a few minutes later he returned, leading a very reluctant man with sallow skin and dark hair. “Why should I want to meet Potters’ son, I’ve met the other one. He’s just like his father! Why should this one be any different?” The hook nosed man turned, and was slightly embaressed that the boy of his rant was standing right by the portrait. “Fine then. What’s you’re name boy? I don’t suppose you have any talents in school classes, probably just on the Quidditch field.” The young boy thought deeply before answering, “My name is Albus Severus Potter. I’m not very good at Quidditch, but I love Charms and Potions class. I’m sorry if my brother has been a prat, he’s always like that.” The boy looked up at the man in the portrait, his green almond shaped eyes peering at Snape. Severus was speechless and instead of having a snide remark for the boy, simply asked him how he was liking Potions class and the castle. Many times after this initial meeting, Severus Snape could be seen roaming around the castle through the paintings more frequently, oddly enough these appearances were near the classes that the second Potter boy attended.”

- Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry Facebook Page

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Episode 32 - Iceberg, right ahead! In 3D!!!!!!

2011-11-21T16:47:00.000-06:00

In today’s show I talk about starting school, Dancing With The Stars, X-Factor, Arrested Development going to Netflix, Ryan Gosling being robbed of Sexiest Man Alive title, Justin Bieber’s continuing baby mama drama, Demi and Ashton breaking up, Mila Kunis going to the ball, Breaking Dawn (discussion featuring special guest @BigPimpinSFLA) , Titanic in 3D, and The Muppets movie.

Be sure to check out these awesome podcasts:

FromPage2Screen -http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/frompage2screens-media-movies/id421475326?ign-mpt=uo%3D4

Mr. Moody’s Neighborhood - http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/mr.-moodys-neighborhood-presented/id299926245?ign-mpt=uo%3D4

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Breaking Dawn: Part 1 Review

2011-11-20T20:45:00.000-06:00

The Twilight series and I have had a very up and down relationship. Initially I was completely infatuated. Who wouldn’t want to be with a vampire? But then the series started to go downhill. Mostly when Bella started becoming the biggest tease in the world to poor Jacob. And also when I realized that she might be the most boring character ever written. Then when the movies started coming out, my patience was tried even more. I have already written about how much I hate the fandom surrounding the series. More specifically the media’s obsession with the personal lives of the stars. But media attention aside, this series has been very uneven for me. The world that Stephenie Meyer has created is fascinating but the love triangle at its core does not ring true to me. There is just no reason why Edward or Jacob should be so crazy about Bella. But, even with all of that, I still found Breaking Dawn: Part 1 very enjoyable. I would even argue that it is the best movie so far.

Come on! It features a wedding! A WEDDING!!!!!

Have I been drinking too much of the Twilight Kool-Aid? Maybe. I did just spent the weekend getting caught up on all of the movies so maybe my standards have lowered. But still, I thought this movie was well made and true to the book without being boring. At least not to me. It also turned what many fans feel is the weakest book in the series into a decent movie. That’s saying something since I felt like the fourth book was completely unnecessary and a bit self indulgent on the author’s part. I’m thinking that the movie’s limited running time helped make the story less infuriating. Either way I was entertained the whole time, more so then I thought I was going to be.

Twilight 4: Completely Unnecessary

One surprising aspect of this movie is how much better the acting seemed to be from all of the actors. It’s not Oscar quality or anything. Let’s not get crazy. But I found the actors much more engaging and less irritating. There is none of that weird forceful yelling from Kristen Stewart, which is featured prominently in the first movie. Hell, even Robert Pattinson manages to emote. (Also he was the best looking I have ever seen him. Props to the hair and make-up people for making him look desirable for the first time ever.) Another interesting aspect is how well they portrayed the pregnancy and the eventual birth. It sounded so crazy in the book but it comes off well in the movie.

Who is this guy and why wasn’t he in the first 3 movies???

Based on the trailer I was really expecting to hate this movie. The critics have also not been very kind so with all of that I was worried this movie would completely suck. But if you’re a fan of the series and have read all the books, you’ll enjoy it. It’s by no means a perfect film, but based on what this movie is trying to do (which is be true to the book and please the fans) it’s very good. It’s so good that I’m now actually excited to see Part 2 and disappointed that I will have to wait a whole year. Although things do fall apart story wise in the second half of the book, if Part 2 is anything like Part 1, then I have nothing to worry about. Besides, as long as Taylor Lautner’s fine ass is in it, I’m good, baby. I’m good…

It is weird you fall in love with a baby though…

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Episode 31 - I would totally YouTube date Ronnie Cash!

2011-11-17T12:29:00.000-06:00

In today’s show I talk about my Pottermore special, America’s Next Top Model, Survivor, Dancing with the Stars, Justin Bieber not being the father, Kim Kardashian’s angry ex publicist, Justin Timberlake’s date to the Marine Corp ball, Joseph Gordon-Levitt getting the YouTube date treatment, Ashton Kutcher is an idiot, Billy Crystal is back, why Jack & Jill is awful, and Breaking Dawn!!!

Be sure to check out these awesome sites:

Less Than Reality blog -http://www.lessthanreality.com/

Ronnie Cash’s Facebook page -http://www.facebook.com/ronniecashmodel

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Episode 30 - Support the Muppets hosting the Oscars!!!

2011-11-10T15:49:00.000-06:00

In today’s episode I talk about America’s Next Top Model, Survivor, Dancing with the Stars and how it may be time for some new judges, Eddie Murphy being lame, the campaign to get the Muppets to host the Oscars, the doctor who killed Michael Jackson, why Twilight will never be as good as Harry Potter, and I may make myself go see Jack & Jill. And it’s all for you!!!!

Be sure to check out the article I reference about Twilight here:http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/45225922/ns/today-entertainment/#.TrwN4WD43qE

And show your support for the Muppets here:http://www.facebook.com/MuppetOscars?sk=wall

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Episode 29 - Justin Bieber, You are not the father!

2011-11-07T14:03:00.000-06:00

In today’s short episode I talk about about Pottermore extending the Beta testing, Dancing with the Stars, Eddie Murphy hosting SNL, Lindsay Lohan’s crazy ass, Justin Bieber taking a paternity test, a Carmen Sandiego movie, and......Channing Tatum....mmmmm........

Check out the following awesome sites!

The Player Hater Podcasthttp://www.theplayerhaterpodcast.com/

My Next Door Neighborhttp://www.mynextdoorneighbor.net/

Mischief Managed: A Guide to Surviving Motherhood http://mischiefmanaged-kelli.blogspot.com/

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Tower Heist Review

2011-11-05T16:29:00.000-05:00

I was born in 1985. I mention this because it is important that you know that the Eddie Murphy I grew up with was not the Eddie Murphy in his heyday during the 80’s. When I was barely able to walk or talk, films like Beverly Hills Cop, Trading Places, and Coming to America were brand new. When I was old enough to appreciate movies, I had Daddy Day Care, The Haunted Mansion, and...*shudders*…Norbit. Needless to say, I am too young to know what it’s like to say there is a new Eddie Murphy movie coming out and not have most people just shrug and sigh. So the fact that I saw the trailer for Tower Heist and thought it might be good despite the fact that in starred Eddie Murphy was a new experience for me.

Why are you a comedic legend? Why????

I was cautiously optimistic to say the least. There were some decent jokes in the trailer and the premise looked promising. I always enjoy the idea of regular people trying to pull off a big crime. It worked so well in Horrible Bosses I thought, why not here? Now that I have physically seen the movie, in a theater, in its entirety, I must answer one simple question. Was this movie good? I would have to answer, “Sorta.”

I was afraid that all of the good parts were shown in the trailer. And they were. The rest of the movie wasn’t bad. At least, it was never boring. However, it wasn’t that funny either. For a movie that is supposed to be a comedy, it was very light on the laughter. There were a few chuckles sprinkled here and there but I never had a laugh out loud, quote worthy moment. That’s a shame because there’s a lot of comedic talent in this movie. There’s Ben Stiller, Casey Affleck, Matthew Broderick, Michael Peña (who was the funniest part of 30 Mins or Less), and Gabourey Sidibe. All of these performers have been much funnier in other films. Hell, even Sidibe, who is not exactly known for being funny, is at least hilarious whenever I see her in an interview.

You are better then this movie!!!!

Should you go see this movie? I don’t know. I didn’t hate it. But I did not love it either. It was a perfectly fine way to kill 104 minutes on a Saturday afternoon. But honestly I could have waited for Blockbuster or Netflix. Oh well, at least there is Happy Feet Two and Breaking Dawn to look forward to...I need to go lie down.

Oh Taylor, only you can make it all better......

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Episode 28 - The Halloween Spooktacular!!!!!......but actually it's just a normal show

2011-11-03T22:33:00.000-05:00

Today is my post Halloween recap, and it was a pretty crazy weekend to say the least. I also talk about my issues getting my costume together, Ron Weasley possibly dying, America's Next Top Model, Survivor, Jersey Shore, Dancing with the Stars, In Living Color, broke ass Situation, Kim Kardashian's divorce and hopefully ruining her brand, Scarlett Johansson explain's her naked pics, Lindsay Lohan posing for Playboy and going to jail......again, Puss in Boots, and my hopes for Tower Heist. Also I read comments!

Make sure to check out this article on Less Than Reality about Kim K's divorce:http://www.lessthanreality.com/2011/10/kim-kardashian-and-kris-humphries.html

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Hollywood, why don't you just cast a regular looking girl!

2011-10-28T12:14:00.000-05:00

We’ve all seen it. Maybe it’s a romantic comedy. Or maybe it’s a serious drama. But we have all seen a movie that features a beautiful actress playing an “ugly,” “regular,” or “homely” girl. Maybe it’s Natalie Portman with some glasses on. Perhaps it is Anne Hathaway with bushy hair. Or even Emma Stone as the “unpopular” girl??? I get that movies for the most part are supposed to be fantasy or a hyper reality but nothing takes me out of a movie more then when I have to buy that these woman are being considered anything other then completely beautiful.

Oh yeah, no one would ever want to talk to this girl. Ew!

I’m sorry, but I just hate it when a movie tells you that this girl, Emma Stone again, is supposed to be unpopular in the movie Easy A. Sure her looks are very girl-next-door and attainable but still, she would not be unpopular in any high school because she is super cute and would be dating the basketball team captain five minutes after the start of the school year. It just makes me feel like if she is considered ugly or undesirable, then what does that make me or any other of the millions of average women watching this film? Compared to her, most of us are down right beastly.

Glasses??? Gross!!!!

And don’t even get me started on Natalie Portman. I recently watched Hesher wear she plays a cashier at a super market. In this role she is dressed down with big ugly glasses. I get that the movie wanted us to think of her as a regular girl who is down on her luck, but I don’t think there is anything anyone can down to make Natelie Portman not look like an ancient Greek goddess.

Yeah, she's still hot somehow....

Seriously, this woman is incapable of being ugly. Even in Black Swan (where I know she is not supposed to be playing ugly) when she’s all crazy with the weird goose pimple skin and the nasty bleeding toe she still looks hot. I’m not into chicks or anything, but I would still tap that.

Mooooo!

The worst offense of all though is when an actress is supposed to be “fat” or concerned about her weight. A good example is Renée Zellweger in Bridget Jones’s Diary. A big deal was made over the fact that she gained weight for the part. But she wasn’t fat. This woman has never been fat a day in her life. But the character she portrays obsesses over her weight. Sure in the end she gets the guy without ever having to drop a pound but still many women may think if she is fat, then I must be a whale!

Pictured: Freddie Prinze, Jr struggling not to vomit

I know I may be coming off as a jealous hater, but I’m not. I am not mad at these women for being beautiful. If I looked like them I would be the most conceited person you ever met! I just have a problem with Hollywood casting them in roles that should be played by less physically attractive actresses. I think it is a shame that the movie industry seems to be more obsessed with looks then actual talent. And that is not to say that the actresses I just named don’t have talent. Just that there must be so many women out there trying to be in movies but can’t because they are not perfect 10s. Or if they do get cast, they can only be the best friend or co-worker of the lead actress.

Hollywood does it with men too. This guy was the nerdy unpopular character on The O.C. Really???

I just think it would be nice to see a movie where you can believe that the character would have issues with her looks or body. To have an actress who isn’t model thin with skin like porcelain. Maybe she is fat, or her nose is too big, or she is just plain looking. It would make the movie so much better and more satisfying when she gets her happy ending. Not to mention it would be giving talented regular looking actresses some much needed work.

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Paranormal Activity 3 Review

2011-10-27T09:11:00.000-05:00

I was so excited to see Paranormal Activity 3! From the moment I learned that it was coming out, I had high hopes that it would live up to the first 2 movies. I loved the minimalist style and how the scares come more from the atmosphere then from actually seeing the “monster.” And while PA3 had some good scares, this movie left me feeling mostly disappointed.

One huge disappointment for me is the fact that this movie seems to completely abandon the plot points established in the first two installments. I re-watched some of PA1 before seeing this film, and the female lead clearly states how the activity happened to her and her sister when they were children. This is brought up again in PA2. While watching this movie, I did see some subtle nods to the first two, but overall this plot was a complete departure from what had been established. I don’t want to give too much away accept to say that this movie almost had nothing to do with the other two.

Another big disappointment is that a lot of what is in the trailer is not in this movie at all. I re –watched it just to make sure I wasn’t crazy in thinking that there might have been some scenes missing and I wasn’t wrong. The trailer basically looks like a completely different movie. I’m not sure why movie studios do this. It’s like false advertisement. Why show me part of a scene that looks interesting, and then not include it all? I want to see the movie that was promised in the trailer. It looks like it makes more sense and is more consistent with the first two films.

Yeah, that awesome scene where that guy got his head slammed into the table? NOT IN THE MOVIE!!!

As much as I have complained about this movie, I must admit that I did find some aspects enjoyable. Like I wrote at the beginning of this review, there were some good “jump out of your seat” scares. There is another good kitchen scare, like in PA2, and something that is done with a bed sheet that I haven’t seen done before. And the last few moments of the film did have me completely on edge. But even with all of that, when the conclusion came, there was an audible sigh of exasperation from the whole theater. It seemed like the entire crowd, not just me, found the ending lacking in any kind of resolution. Or at least a resolution that makes sense.

So do I recommend seeing this movie? It’s hard to say. On the one hand, there were a lot of good scares and, in the end that is what a scary movie is supposed to do. But on the other hand, the plot is kind of insulting to the audience. You just can’t have two movies set up a story and then completely ignore it in the prequel. The story in those movies was well thought out and it made sense. It was simple and straightforward. But the second movie suffers from being needlessly complicated. That’s a shame coming from a franchise that did so well by staying simple. So I guess see this movie for the scares, but expect nothing more.

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

I'm #1!!!! I'm #1!!!!

2011-10-27T08:46:00.000-05:00

Wow! I can't believe how well the show has been doing on podOmatic this past week. I have remained in the top ten of TV&Film and now I am #1!!! Also I am #167 overall. Now that is out of thousands of podcasts. Thank you so much for listening to the show. Please help the show stay on top by leaving those comments and clicking on like!

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Episode 27 - Tyler Perry & Kim Kardashian have started a chain reaction that could bring about the next apocalypse

2011-10-24T21:58:00.000-05:00

So I did it. Despite having every reason in the world to not do an episode today (mostly because of GarageBand) I recorded a show. I talk about my Halloween costume, the success of the Pottermore special, the final Jersey Shore episode, Dancing with the Stars, how celebrities are expected to look perfect all the time, Mariah Carey and Nick Cannon's twins, The Thing, Paranormal Activity 3, and Kim Kardashian and Tyler Perry.

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

GTL! DTF! It's the Jersey Shore Special!!! w/@rodimusprime

2011-10-22T20:15:00.000-05:00

With the 4th season of Jersey Shore done and over, I decided to do a special. And I'm not alone, I have Rod, a.k.a. @rodimusprime, from The Black Guy Who Tips podcast, on to talk about all things Guido related. We talk about why we like the show, what we think of each cast member, what we thought of this season, and what we hope to see for the next season.

Be sure to follow Rod on twitter here:http://twitter.com/#!/rodimusprime

Check out his web site here:http://www.theblackguywhotips.com/

And listen to his show on iTunes here: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-black-guy-who-tips-podcast/id349830668?ign-mpt=uo%3D4

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Episode 26 - When Keepin' It Real Goes Wrong

2011-10-20T20:52:00.000-05:00

Today I talk about a possible series of Harry Potter related podcasts I'm doing with SilverNettle, America's Next Top Model, Jersey Shore, Survivor, Dancing with the Stars, T.I. getting out of jail.....again, Lindsay Lohan in trouble......again, Sammie and Ronnie breaking up......again, Paranormal Activity 3, and a Harry Potter documentary.

Be sure to follow @rodimusprime! He is one of the hosts of The Black Guy Who Tips Podcast and he will be my guest on the Jersey Shore Special I'm doing this weekend. Also check out his site here:http://www.theblackguywhotips.com/

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

The Long Awaited Pottermore Special!

2011-10-20T11:51:00.000-05:00

So today's episode is once again all about Harry! With my first very special guest host, SilverNettle. We talk about our experiences with Pottermore to include how we got early access, what we like about the site, what we don't like, what we thought about the sorting, and what we would like to see in the site in the future. We also talk a bit about the movies, the books, and more!!!

Btw, this was such a long episode that I had to break it up into two parts.

Be sure to check out SilverNettle's blogs:

Mischief Managed: A Guide to Surviving Motherhood- http://mischiefmanaged-kelli.blogspot.com/

Witch Weekly - http://witchweeklyhp.blogspot.com/

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Episode 25 - What's New in Sex

2011-10-17T19:28:00.000-05:00

In today's episode I talk about my upcoming Pottermore special, Jersey Shore, Survivor, The Walking Dead, Zachary Quinto, Lindsay Lohan, a Hannah Montana star's recent DUI, and Jack & Jill which is a new Adam Sandler abomination. Please be sure to leave comments and check out these other awesome podcasts:

The Player Hater Podcast:http://www.theplayerhaterpodcast.com/

Mr. Moody's Neighborhood:http://www.mynextdoorneighbor.net/

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Sex, Games & B.S.- "Talkin' Shit With Lina" (Part 1)

2011-10-16T14:28:00.000-05:00

The Player Hater & Lina talk about her European Trip, Fat People & Random Hate.

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Episode 24 - Post Vacation Show....but it's mostly the same stuff...

2011-10-13T21:34:00.000-05:00

This is my first episode since being back from the states so it is a little rusty....who am I kidding? This show is awesome! So I talk about what I did in Dublin and Ireland, a bit about Pottermore, Jersey Shore, America's Next Top Model, Dancing with the Stars, H8R, The Simpsons, Family Guy, Ashton and Demi, Johnny Depp, Scarlett Johansson, Farmville: The Movie, Disney movies getting the 3D treatment, Breaking Dawn, Arrested Development, and black James Bond.

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

Sex, Games & B.S.- "Talkin' Shit With Lina" (@Whats_New_Lina)

2011-10-08T00:51:00.000-05:00

The Player Hater invites Lina ("What's New") on to talk about random topics.

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

FromPage2Screen Spotlight with Lina and Harold

2011-10-05T12:47:00.000-05:00

FromPage2Screen is a movie podcast. One of the host, Harold a.k.a. @BigPimpinSFLA, invited me to be on the show. This is the episode and we just talk about movies.

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com

50/50 Review

2011-10-04T12:57:00.000-05:00

Considering that 50/50 is about having cancer, it was not overly dramatic. When the movie ended, I felt a sense of closure and wasn’t manipulated into feeling sad for any of the characters. It’s nice seeing a movie that doesn’t try too hard. There's no overwhelming swell of music telling you to cry. There's no over the top sight gag telling you to laugh. Everything was organic and made sense to the plot. So many movies these days feel the need to beat you over the head with its message and it was refreshing to see a movie just tells you a story.

The basic plot is Adam (played by the always sexy Joseph Gordon-Levitt) discovers that he has a rare form of cancer with a 50% chance of survival, hence the title of the film. The movie follows Adam as he comes to terms with his illness and how the people in his life handle it. There is his best friend, Kyle (played hilariously well by Seth Rogen), his girlfriend (Bryce Dallas Howard), his mom (Anjelica Huston), and his counselor (played adorably by Anna Kendrick). All of the people in his life are not perfect, which is great. They're all flawed and don’t always do or say the right thing. Even his counselor is sometimes at a loss for words (which is totally relatable since I used to be a counselor). There is no scene where someone gives the life affirming speech. That never happens in real life and it was great to not see something like that shoehorned into this film.

I read a review for this movie on Slate.com by Dana Stevens. While I agreed with most of what she said, I took issue with one aspect of her review. She wrote that this movie was not very honest and was too cautious and tidy. I completely disagree. I thought this movie was very honest in that when people go through something that is tragic, like getting diagnosed with cancer, they don’t always handle it in the “right” way. The “right” way being that you call your whole family and everyone is brought together by it. Unfortunately, and this is me speaking from personal experience, things like that can end up pushing people away. I think it was very honest to show that in this film. To show that we as people are not always going to know what to say or do when someone close to us gets cancer. And I certainly did not think the film was being too cautious. Cautious would be it had delivered the same tired and worn melodramatic crap that a lesser film maker would have done.

I highly recommend this movie! Even if you are not a fan of Seth Rogen, he does tone it down in this movie. In fact, all of the actors involved give great performances. Don’t let the fact that the movie is not doing well at the box office scare you away (and what is that? It’s like me liking a movie is the kiss of death! The same thing happened to Fright Night! Son of a bitch!) This movie is well worth your time and your money.

As always, you can email me at whatsnew@whatsnewlina.com