Ice Cube vs. Oprah, visiting jail and bad movies

Well the holiday is over and it seems a few people had a few too many in the time off, I think Let’s start with one thought I find laughable. I will admit that I could be surprised, but as yet there has been no hint of talent in anything that Paris Hilton has done. This it is no surprise that I look forward to the new record album by Paris Hilton with about as much anticipation as her role in the horrendous remake of House of Wax generated. But I will give her this (or the family accountants, which I would think is more likely) she is targeting the right crowd, hip hop and reggae. Not to say that fans of either form of music do not have taste, I just think she will be bought in the same way that Vanilla Ice was but white kids in the mid-west, who had no idea he was a fake or that his song was a direct rip off of a Black fraternity. But hopefully the wanna-be-ganstas in the nation will recognize this as another in the seemingly never ending attempt for attention by this billion dollar heiress. I wonder what would have happened to her if her parents spent more time with her, as opposed to her nannies raising her. I don’t know that they didn’t but her actions give me that impression. And ladies, having money will not make your actions less skank-like (if that is how you wish to act) as can me seen with this example, I think.

On another move that seems motivated solely for income, There is now going to be a sequel to The Graduate. Why? Because Mr. Charles Webb needs the $56,000. Or so it seems is the driving force here. Sadly I’d expect that Hollywood will jump on this bandwagon and no matter how good (or bad) the story and make a movie of it. I wouldn’t be surprised that a remake (or heaven forbid a revisioning) comes out first, with younger stars so the youth will think its original, pops up first though. I really can’t see why we need to know what happens next in that story, I think those with imagination will be able to think up a better story than what we will be given. Sometimes not being told what happens next is a great thing. But it doesn’t justify the salaries of some of the publishing and movie studio execs, thus we get movies like the above mentioned House of Wax.

And since the unfairness of what we get to read and see is matched by actions in life as well. If you recall I recently spoke about Ms. Michelle Rodriguez. I like her acting and yes she is cute too. But of course that has nothing to do with drunk driving. Unless you are in L.A. In Hawaii Ms. Rodriguez served 4 days in jail, which was an eternity compared to the 4 HOURS she spent in L.A. County jail. Now I realize that jails across the nation are crowded (disproportionately with Black African Americans and Hispanics serving longer sentences than white for the same or lesser crimes) but 4 hours of a 60 sentence is ridiculous. Especially considering that everyone would agree, including Ms. Rodriguez I think, that were she not a moderately famous actress she would have seen severely more time. And she deserves to spend the time. Drunk driving has more than enough advocates, I’m surprised none of them feel the need to discuss this slap on the wrists.

Of course what would a holiday be without something from a famous rapper. To be fair I mean Ice Cube - who was the driving force behind the FX show Black. White. - as he came to the defense of other rappers in their complaint about Ms. Oprah Winfrey. I’ve talked about how this is massive sour grapes on the various rappers parts in my post Breaking the law entertainer-style. Perhaps the focus is not that rappers are a rag-to-riches story, but that they have a negative influence on the Black community and have helped make Black culture a commodity, as I see it. Maybe Oprah shares my views, perhaps not. But it is HER show, and she is no less a rag-to-riches story without the negative influence. I may not find most of her shows of interest, but that does not mean she should change it. In that same manner the rap community should shut up because it’s not like she is there only access to the media and public. Maybe the argument should be why is there not more shows that will have them on, or that target the black audience more directly.

If they find Oprah to harsh in her choice of television airtime guests, why don’t they spend the time and effort to create their own program and host? I’m sure at least a couple of them have enough real money (not loans or advances form their record companies) or influence (like Ice Cube) to get something done. And if any one of them is afraid to go out on a limb several could work together to get something done. Why whine like spoiled children, this is America. Effort combined with money and a solid plan can make things happen. Don’t react, be proactive. In my mind, if half the rap music artists out there were as wealthy or powerful as they portray themselves they wouldn’t need to pander to public opinion to change one television talk show hosts’ choices, they would be able to either make a new option or have others seeking them out to reap the benefits. While the compliment to Oprah may be nice its unrealistic, she isn’t the only program on television, nor the only one they can access.

This is what I think, what do you think?

Riddle me this

Well Just something short and simple for now.

Riddle of the Sphinx:

What walks on 4 legs in the morning, 2 legs in the afternoon, and 3 in the evening?

Another simple one:

There is a patient with a brain tumor. The tumor is inoperable except with a laser. There are four 10Mw lasers that won’t damage the brain, but won’t destroy the tumor. There is one 30Mw laser that will destroy the tumor, but will destroy brain matter as well. How do you destroy the tumor without losing the brain?

And the last one:

A man on one side of a river needs to get a sack of corn, a chicken and a dog to the other side. There is a raft he can use to cross the river, but it can only hold 1 other item besides himself. The man must get each item to the other side. How does he do this?

I won’t post the answers but will send them individually, this way its fair for everyone.

Enjoy the holiday :)

What the X-men really mean

I almost forgot. This weekend is the opening for X-Men 3. I have been looking forward to this movie. The fact that I am an old comic book collector does add to my enthusiasm. That is because I know the full history of all the main and many of the secondary characters. Even some of the 3 tier mutants like Spike.

But there is something far more important in these movies. It tends to be more clearly stated in the comic books, that the mutant were an allegory for Black African Americans. The comic book, for those that don’t know, started in 1964 (older than some of my readers and me) at the time of civil rights. While Marvel would not publish a book with major Black African American characters (As I recall there started to be some secondary characters in the 70's - The Falcon, and the side kick for the Hulk - culminating in Luke Cage, Power Man as the first leading Black comic book hero followed by the Black Panther) they did want to make a new series that touched on the things that teens were dealing with at the time. Mutants were outcasts, ostracized by the mainstream, hunted and killed because they were different. They were misunderstood and subjugated. They lived in fear of unprovoked attacks on a daily basis. Very much the daily life of many Blacks in that time.

For the younger readers, yes there was a time when segregation was so pervasive that a comic book could not include black characters. That is one aspect of racism. Unlike today where cartoons and movies and television shows often have some type of Black African American portrayed (though massively under represented and often cast as villains and violent). A true example of being shutout of society is to not exist in the art that is an expression of that society. It wasn’t until the mid to late seventies that we saw any traction, due to the efforts of many, like those that died or were beaten during the marches in the south or Mr. Malcolm X or Dr. Martin Luther King.

But the matter at hand is this movie, X-Men 3. The mutants are persecuted, as in the other movies, feared and targets of hate; both by the public and the government. Whether with Magneto or Professor X, or the Morlocks, they seek to be recognized as deserving respect and the rights others take for granted. The misguided powers that be have found a way to “cure” them instead of taking the time to support them and make them a part of society. [Kind of makes me think of what are the potential hazzards with genetic engineering] Yet the mutants strive to gain their place, some via extreme measures others working within the system to varying degrees. The key is that they strive for what they want. And they all believe in what they are striving for, no matter the means they employ (though I do not advocate violence, nor do I believe the movie does).

I’m looking forward to the struggles, both internal and external, that several characters will have to experience. I hope others will see the morals underlying the superpowers and special effects. Whether it’s the inequality experienced by minorities, or the violence against gays, or the hatred directed towards various religions there is more to each of these movies than just the action onscreen. Pause a moment after seeing this movie and reflect on that. For me this only adds to the movie, not detracts. But then again, I like to think deeply about things. Even if I am swept away with escapism at the first glance.

[Potential spoilers, not sure if they will be in the movie. You were warned.]
As a tidbit, things I know about the characters that I find fantastic. Wolverine is about 150 years old. Sabertooth has on occasion been a good guy. Colossus (he is Russian) can take a .45 caliber bullet to the eye without harm. Juggernaught (an American) is the irresistible force (IE. he cannot be stopped once he chooses to move, but he can be slowed down). Mystique is Nightcrawlers (he is German) mom. Professor X used to be able to walk. Havoc and Cyclops cancel each other out in a fight against each other. Iceman is one of the most powerful characters around. The original X-men were Cyclops, Marvel Girl (Jean Grey), Beast (before he mutated and got blue hair), Iceman, and Angel. The second generation (all dead except Wolverine as I recall) included an Native American Indian (Thunderbird for all of one issue, very sad). Wolverine and Storm are part of the 3rd generation. Storm is Egyptian and was worshiped as a goddess in an African village. Ok, enough of my geek side. Seriously though, the X-men was the first and most multi-cultural, before such a term existed, diverse comic book. It was also dedicated to dealing with the social issues of the current day, in an almost realistic manner.

This is what I think, what do you think?

Ponderings of Mike Vass

Well there is nothing in terms of news that I’ve seen out there, or at least of interest to me. But I did notice something the other day. Why is it that people assume that I like basketball? I mean Black African Americans, Whites, Hispanics... it happens all the time. I know this one place that is close to my home. They have several televisions and often there is one or 2 at the least that will have a sporting event on. Now the other sets may have on almost anything else, occasionally golf, or rarely a soccer match. If in this case one of the events is a basketball game, even if my back it turned towards it, I will get asked a variety of questions about the game or the sport.

When I mention that I don’t like basketball, the person asking tends to get this bewildered sad look on their face. Some, a bold few I suppose, follow up by asking why I don’t like the game. When I mention that it reminds me of tennis with 12 people for each team, and that the last 5 minutes or less are where any interest ever appears for me, they seem stupefied. It’s almost as if I struck them. And several have taken me to task for not liking the game.

Some ask what I do like. Other say ‘Well you like baseball then.’ No I like the Giants in American Football and soccer, in particular Germany and Brazil. It is amazing how few Americans know anything about soccer. And few ever have watched a game. I mention the World Cup and I get stares like I’m stupid. The above mentioned bar, I asked if they would show the games of the cup. First they had to ask what I was talking about and then shrugged. After asking another 3x I have decided to look for another bar where the games will be shown. [Anyone in the Binghamton area that knows where they will be played, do get in touch]

But I digress. Why do people assume that since I am Black African American (actually mixed with Puerto Rican but few notice that when looking at me) I must LOVE basketball. Is there some rule that no one ever told me about. Was that a class I missed growing up in the Bronx? I have many friends that do love the game, I have just as many that could care less.

But it’s the same response when people presume about my musical tastes (mostly classical and alternative rock) or the movies I like (sci-fi). Say you like anime and people act as if their heads were spun around. Talk about how relaxing Vivaldi can be, or how Wagner’s Battlecry of the Valkyrie can get you pumped up and people act as if you have the plague.

Often I’ve been criticized for my tastes. Once I even had a Korean stockbroker I worked with, tell me that I wasn’t really Black; that he was more black and silky smooth to boot. That was because I didn’t enjoy some rap song he was listening to in the office as I was closing a deal. Now I think that 38 years of life is enough to know what I like. Not what advertisers are trying to sell me, not what some corporation wants to overcharge me for (like a pair of sneakers for $150, that can’t survive 6 months of use). And if I have come to enjoy some things that aren’t average, so what.

I don’t see white guys getting bugged why they don’t all like bass fishing or Metallica. I don’t see Asians upset if they don’t know the Art of War, or how to play GO (an ancient strategy game that makes chess look like tic-tac-toe, a great game I wish more people knew how to play so I could get some practice). Matter of fact I have seen both groups, and others, get highly offended by stereotyping them in such a manner. Yet I am the one who has been looked down upon, by other Black African Americans as well as others, because I do not conform to some television commercial/music video staple of blackness.

Sit back a moment and think about this. Especially if you happen to be Black African American, or Hispanic or whatever. What are the cultural stereotypes out there for you? How many of them are commercially promoted (IE. Name brand sneakers or name brand 5x extra large baggy jeans, etc.)? How many of those stereotypes fit you and why do they? Is it because you are just following the crowd and doing what is expected? And how have you judged others in this same scenario? Have you ever walked up to a Black man/woman and expected to hear them listening to rap, or watching BET/basketball, or speaking that ‘shizzle’ crap [God save me from eubonics]? Why not walk up and ask them if they like watermelon and fried chicken. It’s the same thought, whether you say it or Nike or Snoop Dogg does.

This is what I think, what do you think?

England insulting Brooklyn, Sir McCartney and Chris Rock

Alright. I will speak on Sir Paul McCartney a little bit. I’m sorry he is getting divorced. It’s a shame that his relationship has come to an end. It’s insulting that the media may have played any part in this. And I must say that there is no way that the current Mrs. McCartney deserves the estimated $250 million, that it is rumored she may receive. I’m not sorry, but she did nothing to justify the such a gift. Yes I do believe that a woman, with no career or one that was given up to raise children deserves support. I do believe strongly that children of divorced parents deserve to be taken care of, as a matter of fact I think its an obligation due them. But there is a far cry between being supported and taken care of and 1/4 of a billion dollars. At this amount the former Beatles missus will have made $50 million/year that she was married. That’s ridiculous. There is no argument that I can imagine that anyone can make to justify that much money. Especially since it’s his money, made from the efforts he made long before she ever knew him. And there is no question she can live extraordinarily well without receiving that much.

In other news the death of the UPN is proceeding nicely. Several shows have made the cut, in particular is the television show Everyone Hates Chris. I’m glad the program from Mr. Chris Rock is going to continue. OF course I am not happy to learn that Mr. Leslie Moonves felt the need to intervene in the casting of the show. Nor the fact that Mr. Rock had to appease advertisers with the notion that white females were being added to the program. It implies that advertisers are uncomfortable with a program that is predominantly lead by African American and other minority actors. Especially when they are aware that this program is part of a block of televison shows (all heavily filled with minorities) targeted to minority viewers.

It annoys me that advertisers influence and reinforce the lack of diversity that fills the airwaves (when considered in total). The only thing I find worse is the way that many commercials pander and insultingly adopt sub-cultural themes to sell to Black African Americans, Hispanics and other minorities. If you’d like an example, watch McDonald’s commercials. When you see one that is targeting Black viewers, you’ll know it. It won’t be because everyone in the commercial will be Black African American or Hispanic. Listen to the music, the dress attire, the attitudes of the actors, the patterns of speech and what is the overall statement of the commercial. I’ve noticed that those commercial tend to focus on how little money it takes to purchase the fast food, and how stylish it is. But these are my observations. Perhaps I’m wrong, or I’ve seen too few McDonald’s commercials. But you can see other thoughts on television commercial in previous posts here.

But most annoying to me is a recent incident in England. No not with a rapper or an airport (for once) but with Ms. Halle Berry and Mr. Hugh Jackman. In promoting the upcoming X-Men 3 movie [which I am looking forward to - got to love Juggernaught] in England, Ms. Berry and Mr. Jackman were on a radio program. The potential of Mr. Jackman becoming a James Bond caused the unexpected response of the radio DJ to assume a ‘Brooklyn’ accent and his further clarification that he was a “big, fat, black guy”. What the Hell is that. Ms. Berry took him on over this, politely, and the DJ described her as being grumpy. Screw this guy. What does the portrayal of a bad guy for Bond have to do with Brooklyn or a black guy? I’ve seen every Bond movie and rarely has there been a key Black villain, and never one that was fat or from Brooklyn. What was that DJ thinking. I understand Ms. Berry’s professionalism, but I don’t think in the same situation I’d have been as calm, nor would I continue to speak to this jerk. It may not be racism, but its close enough. It is insensitive and rude. And the DJ should be taken to task over the matter. Were I either Ms. Berry or Mr. Jackman, I’d insist on an apology, on air. If it were an American DJ, on American radio, there would be huge cries from the ‘stuffy, stiff upper lipped’ British if an equally negative and stereotypical comment were made.

This is what I think, what do you think?

Musings on Cosby part 2

Continued from Part 1

And what of the performers that use terms that equate to the most offensive term in the English language. They proliferate this term, not to draw attention to the inequalities around them, but in acceptance that the term correctly identifies their expectations and attitude. Even more telling is the fact that many of these same performers will not allow the use of these terms in their own homes, nor tolerate their children (those that have children they acknowledge and support) hearing these terms in the private schools they go to. Is that two-faced? Is that not a slap in the face of the fans? Why does this not elicit the same outrage and reaction that the selling of BET caused?

I agree that “People marched and were hit in the face with rocks to get an education, and now we've got these knuckleheads walking around. ... The lower economic people are not holding up their end in this deal. These people are not parenting.” I agree that in allowing entertainers and celebrities to influence our children with these actions and failures is abominable. To fail to instill values that were the norm for my generation (I am 38) is to fail the entire Black community. How it can have failed so widely and badly in such little time is amazing. I do not see this as the chicken or the egg philosophical debate, entertainment has pushed the envelope and the Black culture has moved lock-step to make those moves to the edge the mainstream.

These observations are not made lightly. They are not false either, I believe. Direct connections exist, as I see them. I do not believe a valid objective argument can be made against my views, but if there is one I request it, post it for me and others. This is bigger than rap, or the entertainers in whatever form of medium. There has been a pervasive and persistent degradation of the Black community, and entertainment has helped to accelerate the problem. Dreams of there being only one avenue of success have moved from a professional athlete to a rap star. Professional athletes have been accepted at younger ages with less discipline and knowledge, promoting the hope of success without effort. The core is that there is more effort to attain a dream, a 1 in 100,000 chance, than to build a supportive and solid life. Part of that dream is the concept of living fast and dying young. That there is no need to regard consequences in living that dream as there is neither time nor hope. I feel that only the most uneducated could accept that way of seeing things.

I am not Mr. Bill Cosby, Mr. Harper Hill, nor any other entertainer. But like several of them I did grow up with little. I am proud of the sacrifices made by my mother, and the difficulties that my father endured. Like others I recognize that education is an alternative to imprisonment or death. I accept that a Black African Puerto Rican American male can live 38 years or more without an addiction, incarceration or multiple children from multiple women. That there is no disrespect in speaking my native tongue in an articulate manner, nor in taking pride in my success at working very hard everyday and reaping the rewards of that work. Like this blog. And I feel that any form of entertainment, or any individual, that attempts to lessen my life and lifestyle or presumes that I am less of a man because of my choices is worthless.

This is what I think, what do you think?

Musings based on Mr. Bill Cosby's words

While many people are paying attention to the questionable mothering activities of Mrs. Britney Spears, or the alleged media driven divorce of Sir Paul McCartney, Many in the Back community may have missed something important. While not directly focused on entertainment comments from Mr. Bill Cosby have been overlooked I believe. Perhaps it’s the fact that what is being said is not particularly favorable to hip hop and rap, the current cultural emphasis on ‘thug life’, or the simple fact that it places attention on the accepted shortcomings of the Black African American youth of today. I for one not only agree, but am happy to have noticed the news.


I am specifically referring to the speech by Mr. Bill Cosby to Spellman College graduates recently. This is part of several comments made in recent years that address various aspects of Black culture and its failings. There is no reason to be tactful, in my opinion, as such attempts serve only to coddle the feelings of those that most need the harsh light of direct honest. Mr. Cosby correctly states that it is becoming more important for Black African American women to take the lead in fixing the current situation. While I feel that leading the family requires a strong father figure (yes I am somewhat old-fashioned), there is no debate that growing numbers of Black males are incarcerated, uneducated, unemployed, on drugs or killed in their youth. It’s estimated that 75% of the 500,00 incarcerated in 2000 were black (on non-violent drug offenses), and the number of this group being Black men is high. Why is this? I think the better question is why do we allow this.

I can cite many of my posts where an entertainer has been arrested on violent charges, or drugs. Many times the offender has gotten off quite lightly, and it is also apparent that disproportionately the news media emphasizes the Black African American offenders. The reaction of these offenses has been played by the media and various entertainment industries as an endorsement or marketing campaign for the offender. Too often this is focused on rap hip hop artists, or sports athletes. Within my last several posts [Harper Hill - success vs. dmx - airport arrest, Breaking the law entertainer-style] there are several incidents I have spoken about. How can we not penalize these repeat offenders, and why are these individuals rewarded for their actions with increases of record sales and sporting event tickets?

As Mr. Cosby mentions, how can we allow these men to

“... know how to send their sperm cells out and then walk away from the responsibility of something called fatherhood.”

When did that become acceptable? I mean specifically when did it become a bragging point for a Black man to say that he has 5 children, each from a different mother, and that he supports none of them? At what point did women (Black African American in particular) find pride in bearing children with random men, without the expectation of support or the intent of a relationship, and knowing that they lack the means to provide those children with basic needs. How could grandparents stand by or permit their children to pass on their obligation to raise their children, either to the grandparents or to the state, or worse yet to no one.

Too often we have seen many entertainers brought into courts on charges of failing to live up to child support, or abandoning their children completely (how many rappers and basketball players fall into this group that you can name as an example?). Yet we continue to ensure their continued activities, and disrespect, with censure to those that mention how badly these entertainers have behaved.

Mr. Cosby also poses another series of questions,

“Why are we the only race of people who use that stupid word, a word you learned from your mother? Why do our girls dress up like prostitutes? Why do our young men wear clothes designed like the clothes people in prison wear?”

I can’t understand how we can permit forms of entertainment that promote disrespect and ignorance. Look at a music video, not for the entertainment but what is being sent as a message. What do you see? How many women are performing in a manner that would get them arrested were they in public. And in comparison even the women in rock videos, long known for skimpy attire, behave and receive more respect than in the average rap video. Listen to a rap song, and/or many of the entertainers in various industries. Do you notice the on-air time spent on those that cannot speak English as well as 3rd grade children. Name a performer in country music, an actor for movies or television, rock music, or sports that isn’t in rap hip hop or the ‘thug life’ that speaks badly. Not badly, virtually incomprehensibly. Other than the noted mis-spoken usage of Mr. Don King, there are virtually no others. At least Kid Rock has the excuse he is illiterate, as I recall. I’d suggest you recall how many speak well and are in the ‘thug life’ but I think that would take too long and may not exist.

Continued in part 2 ...

Harper Hill - success vs. dmx - airport arrest

Perhaps it’s the altitude. There must be a reason for the problems some rap music entertainers, such as Snoop Dogg and DMX, encounter. Perhaps it’s the fact that they keep getting caught in England. At least authorities there hold them partially accountable. But I find it remarkable that in each case it is the rapper who caused the incident over a minor request. With snoop it was the fact that he and those with him were not allowed to have a party in the 1st class area, even though they all did not poses 1st class tickets that were required for the access. With dmx, it was a request to fasten his seat belt. Are these guys 3 or grown adults? One would have to wonder, since this is what small children throw tantrums about. So would blame this on all rapper’s in general, I do not. But I have to wonder what effect the lack of education has had on some of these entertainers as, in my opinion, any adult with reasonable intelligence, and self-discipline, would not act as they have. And considering the past history of dmx at airports, among other places, I think that perhaps some of these entertainers shouldn’t fly without their mommies.

Just a quick though on something else. Many in the black community have had problems with the sale of Black Entertainment Television from it’s former Black African American owner, to a national corporation. While there may be dispute (I don’t see why) whether it was selling out or not, it has been anything but quiet. Beyond my own surprise over this obvious choice, that being the choice of an entrepreneur to start a business, build it up and be able to sell at an extraordinary price and reap the rewards of your success and hard work, I wonder where all the cries of outrage are for the sale of Ivillage.com? While already a public company, it’s acquisition by General Electric should have brought some cries. Where are all the women upset by the potential watering down of content that this presents. Where are all the protests and words of anguish the a corporate mega-image will superimpose the current content on this site? Is it perhaps that most of those that visit this site assume that the stockholder were living the American dream and cashing in? Is it that these patrons are willing to see if they will be provided better services? Is it that this is the nature of American business, and the sale of this site does not represent some kind of betrayal on a personal level but a monetary decision. I can only guess.

But there are more important things to discuss. Namely, Mr. Hill Harper’s book “Letter’s to a Young Brother: MANifest Your Destiny.” This book addresses concerns that are at the core of what I am often speaking about. This book provides advice from Mr. Harper to the Black African American youth of this nation. And there needs to be more done. Not that I am upset Mr. Harper is making an effort to improve the situation. But there are more Black African American men in jail than in college or the military (as of 2000). As more and more Black males dropout, with dreams of being pimps, rappers and other forms of the ‘thug life’ that either place them in illegal activities or a longshot of odds no bookmaker would avoid taking, they are dramatically increasing the percentage that are unemployed at their age.

Mr. Harper should be applauded though for making an effort. In reminding the youth that school is important, and tips on how to make it work for them. In giving advice on how to impress without being stuck in the stereotypical (and growing) Black culture of defeat, isolation and death (my interpretation of the ‘bling’ ‘thug life’). For those who are unaware Mr. Hill Harper has not only appeared in several films (including The Skulls and Lackawanna Blues) and television shows (currently CSI: New York) but he also has a Law degree from Harvard University. He is another example of success. Like Mr. Morgan Freeman, Mr. Wil Smith and others, Mr. Harper is an example that success is not necessarily preceded by an arrest record, surviving murder attempts, or disrespect to women at large. And his book shows that success does not prevent giving back something positive to the Black culture and community. If as I mentioned above, there can be heartfelt debate about someone possibly selling out, shouldn’t there be an equal about of deeply felt discussion to support and investigate this book? If so many of the celebrities, Black, Hispanic or otherwise, that our children seek to emulate seem to act like spoiled brats, is it not time we present them with a choice that has comparable success and wealth and yet has also lived to his potential in education and career choices. Which parents do you think are more proud, snoop dogg’s parents (who have to explain what his real name is, and his various legal difficulties from assaults to drugs, and why his lyrics promote(d) disrespect to women and drug use) or those of Mr. Hill. Which would you prefer if you were their parent?

This is what I think, what do you think?

Chris Rock, Andy Garcia, M:I3 and Snoop Dogg

Ok, here is something simple. Please take a look at the headline and picture in the following news link from Yahoo Feds: Private Eye Conspired With Mob, then come back here. Now I would imagine most would think that Mr. Chris Rock was somehow involved with the federal government, private eyes and the mob. Of course there is absolutely no connection whatsoever. The photo is from Mr. Chris Rock going to an unveiling of a star for Mr. Chris Farley. The article mentions a couple of stars though, Mr. Sylvester Stallone and Mr. Steven Segal. So what is going on? Yahoo consistently provides photos that are relevant to the actual article. In this case why is there one of Mr. Rock? The implication, as I see it is one of deception. I say that because the article is dated May 9, 2006 at 5:45pm est, today is the 11th. Thus I have to come to a conclusion that it was not an error, else it would have been corrected by now. So much for giving the benefit of the doubt. I am left inferring that someone at Yahoo wished to make the subliminal connection between Mr. Rock and the mob. To place his picture so prominently without relevance is to create this mental impression. Does someone what to discredit Mr. Rock? Embarrass him? Was it racist? I would hope not, but by making this decision and in not correcting it we must assume one of 2 things. Either the implication of Mr. Rock’s involvement with the mob and a criminal case is intended, or there are no pictures of Mr. Stallone or Mr. Segal available. If you can think of a plausible other reason, please do leave a comment.

In other Hollywood star news, I ran across a bit of information on Mr. Andy Garcia and his film The Lost City. I am amazed that Hollywood did not see the value in this movie. Worse yet is their reasoning. It was thought that this movie was too long (300 pages versus ~120 average), implying movie patrons are either too ignorant or impatient to watch a wordy, intelligent film. The next excuse is that the film is too expensive to be made, though it only cost 9.5 million to make (of course Mr. Garcia did pull favors to get a few big hitters in the feature length film). If that were not enough the final answer is that there is too small an audience, that is Latinos and Cuban Americans. Forget the fact that ~14% of the nation (and growing) is of Hispanic decent, or that there has been considerable growth in Latin music and consumer products targeting. It would seem that nation-wide every other industry is recognizing the influence of the Hispanic consumer, except Hollywood. Many of these same arguments were used (and still are) to explain why movies and television show are not done with African American, Hispanic, Asian or other minority themes. These are the same arguments that were used to reject Mr. Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ. I mean a story of corrupt governments and politicians, family, turmoil and life-altering change never is worth it, they just are too long and slow. Like The Patriot (also with Mr. Gibson) or The Godfather series (which under this same kind of scrutiny cost too much, was too long and catered to Italian Americans, immigrants and mobsters - hardly true but that’s the logic right?) I’m just glad Mr. Andy Garcia chose to forgo Hollywood and make the film anyway. Those that strive to provide diversified and strong stories to the public deserve recognition, and I hope success.

On another movie front, there is Mission:Impossible 3. Previously the series has been more centered on Mr. Tom Cruise’s character Ethan Hunt, than the entire team. That was never what the series was about, it almost never centered on one character (with the exception of the episode where Barney got separated from the team) but how the team dealt with a situation. At least Mr. Ving Rhames character, Luther Stickle, has been able to survive and appear in each movie. And I am glad that his character has always been an intelligent and useful character, whose role in each movie has matured and grown. I hope that they can stay with the team aspect of the television show and give further depth to the Luther Stickle/Barney character.

Finally I want to say something about that fun party guy Snoop Dogg. As I have previously mentioned Breaking the law entertainer-style, he was involved in a major brawl at Heathrow Airport. In this incident he and his ‘associates’ verbally assaulted employees of British Airways. In addition several police officers were assaulted physically. And the punishment? He admitted that he did wrong and is free to go. That is insane. What are kids who, for whatever reason and with no regard for race, looking up to these highly paid criminals to think when they attack law enforcement officials - without provocation - and walk away with the least penalty possible. I don’t care that it happened in England. The response by British Airways was more severe (no longer allowed to use their services). Please someone explain why he deserves this?

This is what I think, what do you think.

Discount brothel, Hollywood movies and money

It is almost funny how industries work. The way that problems from the top, based on executive decisions, are often blamed on people far lower on the chain. This is never more evident than in Hollywood. Recently there has been a rating of some of the top stars in the entertainment industry, focused on movie actors. It seems that the question of the value, or salary, of these entertainers is in question. Mr. Jim Carey, Ms. Nichole Kidman and others are now thought to be too expensive, because their movies have had too little return. The moderate (very relative) success and outright failure of several movies in the last few years are making the $15+ million salaries seem overinflated. That is so ridiculous I think. Mr. Carey, as an example, is no less an accomplished comedian or comedic actor, without regard to the movies he has been in lately. Perhaps the quality of the movies picked by the studios to be made are a factor. I think the guy who green lighted the remake of the Stepford Wives, or Bewitched, Dukes of Hazzard, the Honeymooners, and others could be at fault. Perhaps the writers who failed to note any glimmer of the qualities that made the original versions of these movies and television shows, have some responsibility.

I mean every actor can perform less than at their best in any particular movie. That’s human nature. Of course if you are dealing with a movie that is subpar, its hard to get Oscar caliber acting. Or do you think Mr. Tom Arnold deserves an Oscar for his work in Soul Plane? Or Cedric the Entertainer for the above mentioned Honeymooners? Or anyone in Ultraviolet? The point being that with the slew of horrendous movies that have been poured out of Hollywood, regurgitated and devoid of substance, it’s not the fault of the actors. Moviegoers just happen to have better taste than Hollywood’s current lowest common denominator craze. Give virtually any actor a quality item to work with and it will do well. Even in a mediocre script the movie can rise due to the acting, like Mr. Denzel Washington in John Q as an example. Perhaps the salaries are too high, but don’t blame substandard movies failing to make large gross incomes as their fault. Mr. George Clooney was as good in Good Night and Good Luck as most any other film he has done, if not better, and it wasn’t because of his salary. Nor did anyone see it because of his discounted salary, rather the quality of the overall film.

On a related note, a recent book discusses how screwed up the process of finding a new television program is. Desperate Networks discusses the various hits and misses that executives and networks engage in while trying to present the often worst choices for programming. Favorites such as CSI, American Idol and Survivor (why they continue to do well I have no idea) were barely able to make it. At least in this case the actors are not being blamed with the failures. But the introduction of new media outlets seems to compel even worse decisions as networks throw more trash at the screens hoping a little will stick. I can’t wait til some exec realizes that the average American has more intelligence and a longer memory span than a goldfish.

Of course there is the fact that in Hollywood some things do change. Once one thing hits you can be sure there will be sequels and lots of copies as everyone rushes forward to cash in on the new fad. In this case its not so much a fad but religion. The success of Passions of the Christ is fueling a new trend in movies, to cater to the many religious citizens of this nation and the world. On the face of this I look forward to these movies and expect many of them to be successful. Hopefully there will be more than the above mentioned failures, more than a rush to get the money quickly.

I don’t care about the religious aspects these movies may contain, I just like quality movies. But there is a potential problem that Hollywood should also be aware of. Religious fervor can and in some cases does lead to fanaticism. A fanatic is capable of anything, including acts of terrorism. I would hope that future movies do not fuel propaganda. And I fear the mockery knock off movies can make of any religion. If people think things are bad now, dissension based on religion within the nation will be far worse. I say again that I look forward to Hollywood placing some thought in these matters before they look at the profit projections.

At some point this year I will go back and count all the lives lost due to rappers. I mean this in reference to the artists and not the music genre. As I’ve said before, I do not understand how these entertainers can draw such violence. From brawls in airports, to murders in nightclubs, and now a shootout on the road in moving vehicles. Whether or not the individual rapper caused the event, or had any justification, violence is rampant in the industry. Why is this the case? Why is rap exponentially more violent than rock or metal or any other music genre. Why is it that rap hip hop seems to attract bullets like a magnet. What is inherently wrong, in the performers and/or the genre that this is the case? And why is it that fans of this genre find the wanton violence a symbol of success? How many must die, or suffer violence before something changes? And the comment that this is just what the music is about rings false. Rap has been more, and can be. It can be positive and has been. It can tell a story and convey a message without the violence or bloodshed we see today. Would anyone want to make a bet on how many will die directly attributably to rap hip hop entertainers this year?

But lastly a bit of hope for the untried and timid out there. Yes, for those who are too geeky, thin, fat, with out confidence or experience there is hope. While you may have to travel to German to get help, you can find it at a brothel (where it is legal) and you will get a discount. Kind of like a house of love 101, this brothel can take care of the special needs of a virgin, or those not familiar with a brothel. Talk about great advertising. First timers, of all respects, can expect to be rewarded with discounts to regular costs. I can’t wait to hear of a price war erupting over this. That a free market economy at work. Well the airlines may get a boost from spring break trip to Germany instead of Florida. And for those who are a bit older, rest assured you can book a flight too as its reported that many clients are in their 40's.

The things you find in the news.

This is what I think, what do you think?

Blacks behind the camera, porn on stage, Rush Limbaugh and Anna Nicole Smith

Just a couple of thoughts I was thinking about over the weekend. First off is that the abysmal show, Battlestar Galactica (the revisioned version on SciFi channel) is not only looking like it will continue, but that it is spawning a prequel. Now I have mentioned before how little I like this cable television show, due to the loss of its significant African American actors, the introduction of a female Starbuck character and weak storyline. I just don’t find it involving with the exception of the Baltar character in his interactions with the female cylon lead. If you don’t know what this means, you haven’t missed much. This is just another budget rate program from SciFi that copies a good idea and make a horrendous program out of it. Examples such as the movie on the world killing hurricane, or the generous remake of the failed movie Deep Core, or programs such as Black Scorpion, Lexx or Witch Hunters and Scare Tactics. But as I mentioned they are taking a step in a worse direction, with a prequel to Galactica. I can’t wait to see if they might find one or 2 more cast members that might be African American or Hispanic. It won’t help the writing or acting (with the exception of Mr. Edward Olmos, or the above mentioned actors of interest) but it might at least give the impression that the alien worlds they are speaking of have more than a handful of people other than white. This series is more isolated than virtually all of network television programs, so much for diversity and freedom from the confines of the regular programming that science fiction promises.

On a somewhat related note, it seems the government is looking into another issue that Hollywood pursues with vigor. That issue is one of equal opportunity initially behind the camera. It is common knowledge in the industry that while Black African Americans. Hispanics, Asians and other minorities are occasionally used in various programs and movies (I would bet that if a survey were done the percentage of actors of color would be so far out of proportion to the population as to be insulting) there are even fewer (I’ve heard estimates placing it around the low single digit percentage) behind the cameras doing the work that makes these movies and programs possible. While I am no fan of Affirmative Action and I feel employment should be based on capability, the fact that the disproportion of any minority group being represented needs to be addressed. I doubt that anyone can make a case that there aren’t enough directors, cameramen, grips and others out there. Mr. John Singleton, Mr. Spike Lee, Ms. Kim Fields and the few other names I can mention now are hardly the only ones capable in this nation.

Since I mentioned acting and unique ideas in entertainment, here is one I would probably watch at least once. This is, believe it or not, a reality show. It will take place in Britain though on the BBC. The concept is that a group of porn stars will be selected and they will have to perform a regular play for a normal London crowd. The show is to be named “My Bare Lady.” This could be quite entertaining, and it would be wonderful if there is true raw talent that becomes exposed. Like Ms. Traci Lords, who has moved into mainstream work and has had decent results. I believe that there may be others who are capable of more than just a few words of bad scripting and flexible moves. Not that I’ve ever seen porn, and I’m sure no reader of mine has either. That’s why the industry made more money than all the movies in Hollywood combined last year. LOL

Much like porn stars making a move up to the stage, Ms. Anna Nicole Smith continues her fight to move forward on help claim for part of the inheritance of her late husband. Helping her in that effort was the Supreme Court. It was a nice reminder that anyone has the right to appeal to the highest courts in a legal matter they feel has merit. While I am sure this particular battle is silly and should have been settled long ago (tens of millions are plenty to receive as a benefit derived from nothing more than marriage to someone who had attained roughly over a billion beforehand) the lawyers must be happy for the fees they will garner that will be highly profitable. Still this case has more merit that placing hot coffee between your exposed legs in a moving vehicle, and blaming someone else when it spills in your lap. Or blaming someone for your childs’ extreme obesity when you take them to eat fast foods for every meal, and ensure they get no exercise, not that that could be your own fault. But I digress.

Lastly, since I am discussing the law, Mr. Rush Limbaugh has reached a deal on his legal battle. This man, who was found to have gained 2000 painkillers from 4 doctors in six-months, has had his single charge for 40 pills worked out such that he gets random drug-tests (which he already is undergoing), continue undergoing treatment, and cannot own a gun. This is stated as the normal deal for a nonviolent offender on the first drug offense. Though how or why the counts were dropped from 2000 to 40 has not been explained. Mr. Limbaugh has stated that the case was not strong, thus his punishment, though he fails to mention that the limited charges were enough to gain him a conviction. And I find it interesting that this (former) drug using talk radio host, who had no problem making accusations and insults about a mother and alleged rape victim he does not know on her choice of legal profession, cannot make a more honest or sweeping statement on his own problems. If I were him I’d shut up before accusing an alleged rape victims of being a ‘ho’, as he shouldn’t throw rocks inside his own glass house.

This is what I think, what do you think.