Top 5 list of Super Bowl ads

Now I cannot have an entertainment blog, and not discuss the Super Bowl ads before the big game. It just can’t be done.

As the ads for the big game are getting finalized, cut back, or eliminated (like PETA's porn ad) – most due to the economic freefall – I wanted to look back and mention my 5 favorite all time Super Bowl ads. Some you will agree with, in fact I think everyone will agree that they are all top ads which is rare in any list ever made. You may not agree with the order I pick. But you are more than free to correct me if you wish.

Number 5

I hate, with extreme prejudice, Grand Theft Auto. But I have to say that Coca Cola did a great job to twisting the hyper-violent, stereotyped, insulting game into something everyone can watch and enjoy. Though I still prefer Pepsi to drink.



Number 4

There is no office more interesting to watch than the one with Terry Tate. The mix of the monotony of daily work and the excitement of football is something that was truly inspired genius.



Number 3

It was hard to decide if this should be higher or not. But I settled for 3. Michael Jordan, and the equally famous Larry Bird, doing what only they can do – sink a basket like almost no one else. It just wouldn’t work with anyone else. And you just have to wonder who missed first (my bet is Bird would miss first).



Number 2

Now this one may get me a lot of heat. It is the first Super Bowl ad that I can remember. It is classic in every aspect. It was the true usher of the Super Bowl ad competition we all enjoy today. It is famous across the world (and copied without pause as well). But I place it 2nd.



Number 1

It’s artsy. It’s got a message. It was groundbreaking. And it was used to crush a Democratic Primary hopeful (thankfully) some 24 years after it was made. What more does it take to reach the top?



Of course there is one other Super Bowl ad that I must mention. It is separate of all the other Super Bowl ads. Created by Budweiser, it displayed the heart of the nation. It must be mentioned in any list of greatest Super Bowl ads, and is separate of any ranking.



So there is my list of the top 5 greatest Super Bowl ads. Now if I were to make the list go to 10, what else should I add? And what order would you have chosen?

And maybe, we can hope, the economic breakdown inspired something that can make my list next year. But with these greats, it’s hard to imagine.

A chicken wing, or a life

I have often said that much of the anger (or envy if you prefer) that America receives from the other nations of the world is due to us being

“Powerful, rich, and free... all at the same time.” – from The West Wing

Well that is mostly true. We are the king of the hill, whether other nations like it or not (and they don’t). But that isn’t the only reason.

Another part of the anger to us as a nation comes from some of the things we do. And occasionally that anger is well deserved. Take this wonderful item as an example.

In Philadelphia, home of the concept of police gang beat-downs, there is an annual chicken wing eating contest. PETA was not invited. In this contest the goal is to shove down as many wings as possible. This year’s winner was John “Super Squibb” Squibb, who ate 203 wings in 20 minutes. But of course there were no professional eaters in this years contest.

Think about that. Thousands came to watch a group of people stuff food down their throats for entertainment, not sustenance. And only in America could someone be employed to do such a feat.

Meanwhile there are millions suffering from famine around the world. Projections state that only 25% of Africans will be sustained by the land by 2025. And world food prices are soaring since 2007. Since the beginning of the year 39,304 people have died from malnutrition worldwide.

Now I understand that we are free. That includes the right to be wasteful and not care about other parts of the world. It’s something we do daily, to varying degrees, as does every nation on Earth. But some things just go beyond indifference.

Professional competitive food eaters? While children die across the world because they can’t drink clean water or have any food to live on? Seriously. It’s one thing to not realize the enormity of need in the world. No one expects us to give to everyone in need – even the U.S. is not that rich or powerful – nor should we be responsible for the world. But there is a line to all that. And competitive food eating contest cross it.

Am I wrong? Is competitive food eating contests perfectly fine? Should America not be singled out for such a waste of nourishment?

I think that on this one subject, under these conditions, international disdain is on the money. But you tell me.

Tiger Woods, Golf, and Black History Month

As we enter the first Black History Month in which we will not only be celebrating the past acheivements of great men and women, but the until recently undreamed of African American Presidency, I decided to look at what else might we celebrate.

That took me to looking, eventually, at Tiger Woods. Being the best in the world, in a sport where Blacks (of any nationality) are as close to virtually non-existent as possible, is always noteworthy. But then I noticed an article that made me think deeper.

John Paul Newport was speaking about Tiger Woods at one of the inauguration parties for President Obama. He speculated on the thought that Obama might one day try for a political office. Which indeed would be interesting. And then I read this quote further on in the article

“If you turn on the golf tournament Sunday and Tiger Woods isn't playing, what do you see? About 140 white guys competing and no blacks," said Eddie Payton, the golf coach at historically black Jackson State in Mississippi (and the brother of the late football great Walter Payton). "What kind of message does that send to kids? That they should watch basketball instead, even though they aren't going to grow up to be 6-foot-10? If we don't get some black players on Tour soon, we're going to lose a generation of potential African-American golfers."

Being a golfer, though a 100 a round player so I’m not bragging, I am used to being one of a handful – if not the only – Black golfer on any particular course. That is usually true even on most courses in major cities. So, like watching television, I hadn’t notice that I was brainwashed into accepting the lack of diversity.

Yet that is a horrible thing. Golf is a great sport. It’s relaxing, intense, challenging, and fun. It’s something that even the less physically fit can play. And those on the course are in almost every case, polite friendly and respectful.

It is a game that anyone can learn, even in the city. In the Bronx, a few miles from where I grew up is a 100 year old 9-hole course that is almost always filled by anything but golfers of color. And the same can be said of the over half a dozen courses in New York City, in my experience.

At a time when our nation has broken through a massive hurdle, when we are openly and finally discussing race relations without breaking into fights, we still are surrounded by obstacles that are firmly in place.

And this makes me wonder about my thoughts on the Obama effect. Perhaps I was too short sighted when I discussed that. Perhaps the Obama effect is not limited to just television. Because in the PGA there is only 1 African American golfer, and almost a mere handful of American golfers of color. The LPGA is even more staggered in the diversity it presents.

But why? Money is of course one reason. And not a small one. Yet the same can be said of those athletes that seek to become baseball, basketball, football or any other sports’ major leaguer. The honest answer is that African Americans are discouraged from the game, and institutional backing ignores them.

The discouragement comes as much from African Americans as any other group. The game is seen as being only-White. To play is a stigma akin to abandoning your race. And that is just a stupid thought. Yet every Sunday that very though is reinforced.

The money though is another matter. I won’t say that colleges, golf clubs, or other institutions purposefully avoid African Americans – I don’t know that to be true. But I can say that from what I know they all do actively pursue White golfers at young ages.

Now I am not saying that any African America should be allowed to play in the PGA or LPGA just because of the color of their skin. I hate and would fight against such an idea. But I am saying that the opportunity to compete should be more available.

Given the chance, players will find their own way to the pros. But the chance has to be there. And in golf it is not.

Every African American is not Tiger Woods or Barack Obama. Nor should we be held to a standard of being equal to them or nothing at all. Yet that does not mean we cannot be involved. That does not mean we shouldn’t be encouraged to try.

If this Black History Month says anything this year, I hope that it says to everyone, of every color and creed and ethnicity, that you should try something different. That you can succeed in things that few are doing today. That if you look up, don’t just reach for the clouds because you think you can only get the sky. Reach for the stars because if you work for it, you can reach them too.

Alone on Valentine's day? Violence is never an answer

I realize that Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and that some people just hate that. There is no joy in this consumer holiday dedicated to equating affection with a bank book, if you have no one to spend the money on. I think that was part of the motivation in a case of idocy turned violent.

Basically a woman broke up with her boyfriend. Happens all the time. The boyfriend in question though, had spent some thousands of dollars to provide her with breast implants. And obviously she wasn’t about to pay him back.

So like a violent ass, he instead decided to attack the woman and cut out the implants. Such an act I deplore. Thankfully he has been arrested, and she is alive. There is no justification for this act. It’s an act of violence against women and no male should ever act in such a manner if they in fact are a man.

Perhaps, for all those recently spurred or burned by love there is a far easier, definitely less violent, legal way to make a statement. Wear this





And it even comes in a version for guys to wear



Honestly, in all seriousness, violence against women is a horrendous act. With Valentine’s Day coming up, many depressed people do dumb things. Before you get that far, lighten up. It’s not that serious. The pain will pass. Have a beer.

But never harm anyone, especially an ex.

President Obama and 2009 - what do you think?

Did you vote for President Obama?

	Yes
	No
	I didn't vote

Do you think the economy will improve this year

	Yes
	No
	It will stay the same
	I don't understand the economy

Do you think the nation is safer under President Obama?

	Yes
	No
	I'm not sure
	Fanatics make the world unsafe
	I'm worried about global warming more

Do you think an 'Obama effect' will create more opportunities for people of color in television, movies, and other entertainment?

	Yes, definitely
	Yes, as long as he is in office
	No
	No, Hollywood is racist
	No, some things never change
	The idea of an 'Obma effect' is insulting

Do you think the United State will ever apologize for slavery?

	Yes, now that Obama is in office
	Yes
	Maybe in the future
	No
	Never
	Why should America apologize

How likely are Reparations to happen in the next decade?

	10% or less
	20 - 40%
	50%
	60 - 80%
	100%
	Never

Which do you think are important for America? (choose all that apply)

	Improved race relations
	Education improvements
	Path to citizenship for illegal aliens
	Improving the economy
	Ending genocide and helping the world poor (ie. Darfur, and others)
	Middle East peace
	Allowing gay marriage
	Stem cell research
	Creating green energy alternatives
	Preventing 'global warming'

Lastly, and purely for my curiosity, have you ever been to www.cafepress.com/nova68 (my online store)?

	Yes, I bought stuff there
	Yes, I check it occassionally
	Yes
	Not yet
	No
	No, I don't buy clothes online
	No, the models don't look like me
	No, I think it's only for Black people

PETA promotes soft core porn?

Wow. The people at PETA are really something else.

Warning, the following video is highly suggestive and therefore may not be appropriate for anyone under 18.



Now here is the question. Is PETA promoting sex with vegetables?

That seems to be the only thing that this ad is promoting. Fetish sex. It does nothing to say that wearing a mink in Miami is wasteful or cruel. It does nothing to explain why pitbull fights are a horrendous act of depraved human beings.

Now I love animals as much as the average person. I can agree with a few of the things that PETA is against. But I am no fanatic. I love a good steak and cheeseburger. So PETA is targeting me in this ad that was rejected for the Super Bowl.

But beyond the suggestion that these women are using these vegetables as a means of self-gratification I don’t get the point. In fact the only thing that this commercial would make me wonder, besides what I have already stated, is where did the statistics on vegetarians come from? It’s not like I trust PETA enough to just take them at their word.

The only controversy in this television ad is what the woman is doing with the pumpkin, since the other women are very explicit in what they intend to do with their vegetables.

But PETA has me discussing this ad. So they are getting part of what they wanted. The problem is that I’m not discussing helping any animals. Nor am I thinking that being a vegetarian is of any more benefit than holding a carrot on a date.

They have failed their base, annoyed ultra-conservatives, titillated more than a few pre-teens, and exposed kids to a new fetish they probably didn't know of. And not one animal has benefited from the ad. At least they helped the women in the ad stay employed. That’s a positive.

Bullfighting at 11 yrs old is wrong in every way

Sometimes you just can’t believe what you read. And even video is not enough to get things to sink in.



What can you say about this?

Well the first thing that caught my attention is the fact that the child started in this profession at the tender age of 4. That is just way too young.

Now I realize that animal activists are enraged at the thought of a bullfight. But stepping away from groups that tend to go off the deep end on anything that they disagree with, I still find this horrible.

Given that cultures around the world have sports or activities that I might disagree with. Hell, there are activities in the U.S. that I just have to shake my head at. But my preference of futbol, or my dislike of stir fried milk has nothing to do with this.

I have to wonder if Michelito is going out and risking death, because even a young bull can easily kill a child, because of his own passion or that of his father. Is this the equivalent of child beauty pageants? Is this a father’s quest for continued glory via his son?

It sounds like it to me. It’s not the bullfighting that upsets me. And if this kid were 18, maybe even 16, I wouldn’t question it. But he is 11, and even in foreign countries children are not the equal of adults when it comes to decisions and consequences.

Worse yet, if the Guinness Book of Records accepts what this child has done it will be a motivation for other parents to have their child try to break the record. And there is no argument against this. For every record there is someone trying to break it, and capture their 15 seconds of fame. So if the record becomes 6 bulls and 11 years, the next try might be 10 and 5 bulls. Or 9 and 4 bulls. Where does it end? Where does our global societal concern for children outweigh our global need for more risky and deadly sporting fetishes?

Will it take the death of Michelito at 12 to say this was wrong? Or the death of some other child trying to break the record?

This reminds me of a statement I have said many times before.

“Just because we can do it, does not mean we should.”

This kid could be the Tiger Woods of bullfighting, and it still does not justify what he is doing. At least in my opinion. Obviously the father disagrees. But so do parents that give their kids drugs to keep them quiet, or those that let their kids get married off at puberty to 50 year olds. And society agrees that the parent is wrong there.

Worst of all has to be the crowds that come to see such a sporting event. Often in bullfighting the question is who will win, the bull or the matador. But with a child in the ring the question for spectators becomes ‘will I see this child die in front of my eyes’. And I cannot fathom why anyone would pay to see the potential of that outcome.

This is wrong. Maybe I’m just an uncultured American – but if I am I can live with that lack of culture. I hope that someone slaps some sense into the father and prevents the future potential of death and/or disfigurement of this child.

A-Team: another 80's television show to become a movie

So here is some good news, and bad news. The good news is that Ridley Scott, the director responsible for Alien, Blade Runner, American Gangster and other great films is set to have a film out in 2010. The bad news is that it is yet another television to movie conversion. Worse is the fact he will not be the director.

Yes the A-Team will now join the ever growing list of films that were originally television shows. But unlike most of these remakes (or worse yet, revisionings) this film has a writer that can actually fill the job description, to some degree.

The writer is Skip Woods, who wrote the screenplay for Swordfish and the far less involving but mediocre Hitman. Given the limited work that has been done by Woods (the GI Joe film to come out later this year is anyone’s guess on quality) the odds of the A-Team film being good is a coin toss. The chance of it being decent to good are fair, which in the land of remakes is the top of the list usually.

And as I mentioned above Ridley Scott is the big sell on this proposed movie. With 9 awards having been won by his films, you can feel a bit more confident that this film will not follow the trend. With any luck we can hope to have an expansion on the storyline, not a jumping point from it.

But I am still concerned. The A-Team is about a group of ex-soldiers wrongly convicted of a crime. Hollywood, of late at least, is hardly pro-military. Or seemingly able to make a film that touches on any aspect of soldiers without making a blatant political statement over the entertainment it’s supposed to be presenting.

Ridley Scott though has made films that convey action, intensity, and a message. His portrayal of the military – in regard to squad levels at least – have been. He is a filmmaker who still recalls that a message can be in a movie without being the movie. Which seems to be a lost art these days. But again, he is a producer and not the director.

Still I expect that the A-Team will be Iraq war veterans. They likely will be blamed for some horror that Hollywood seems abundantly willing to accept on rumor and imagination alone. Hopefully the studio execs will not mandate that they are guilty of some kind of crime, thus helping those in need out of some form of redemption.

One thing that I do hope is that we see the A-Team improve their aim. In the 80’s show, the Team couldn’t hit a target smaller than a barn. It was just ridiculous that with the amount of bullets from adversaries and the Team the only thing that was successfully hit each week was the ground, and usually the same film of an exploding shrub – regardless of where they were.

Another neat improvement might be a bit of explanation on how the Team is able to make gear that McGyver would be jealous of. Or at least have them make something that realistically is possible considering the circumstances. Seriously, I recall in one episode the A-Team was stuck in a barn, and they made a makeshift tank. I think not.

Thinking of other aspects of this movie (which has run through several versions and directors) I might be interested in is the question of cast and the director. Joe Carnahan will be the man responsible for what finally hits the screens. And this is where things begin to look really bad for the film. He is the guy responsible for the films Narc and Smokin’ Aces. I think you can find both films in the $3 bargain bin at K-Mart. Obviously I am not impressed.

But actors can make a big difference in any film. Who will take over the lead as Hannibal Smith? It has to be an older actor, like George Peppard who brought loads of experience and dignity to the show. Maybe George Clooney, or perhaps Chuck Norris? It’s a really tough call for that.

The role of Faceman – as done by Dirk Benedict is a bit easier. All you need is a decent looking White actor, no disrespect to Benedict who is more accomplished that the role required. There we can go with most any of the up and coming pretty boys. Maybe Shia Labeouf, or Leonardo DiCaprio.

Dwight Schultz did a great job as the questionably mentally impaired, possibly PTSD suffering, Howling Mad Murdock. He was amiable, off his rocker, and energetic. So a similar type of character would be likely for the film. Though likely to have more of the negatives of PTSD. Thus the young Christian Slater would have been perfect. But today I would expect maybe Alicia Keys, since the movie will need a woman in it somewhere to match current Hollywood sensibilities. And she brings in a young crowd, which the director seems to target.

As for B.A. Baracus, famously portrayed by then ex-bouncer Mr. T, some rapper that thinks they are an actor. It will be a waste. I’d rather see Michael Duncan Clarke in the role. But the director loves trendy young actors. And the film is being remade, thus meaning they are looking for a young audience that will not realize this is a remake. So the only people that fit the rebellious, Black, edgy role are rappers – or so Hollywood keeps insisting. I’d expect DMX, if he is out of jail, to get this part. And if I am right it will be the singular worse part of the entire film.

Will the A-Team movie be worth watching? If Ridley Scott were directing I’d say yes in a heartbeat. With Carnahan I think not. His tendency to pick popular and low quality actors does not inspire confidence. Plus this is a remake (likely a revisioning) which bodes badly. And it involves a subject that Hollywood can’t get right these days, soldiers. With a writer that is 50/50 at best.

I’d slate this for the DVD bin, but it’s still very early so who knows.

An Obama effect in Hollywood is insulting

There is something that’s been nagging at me for months. The Obama effect on media and television. The very statement is an insult. Let me explain why.

An effect is a reaction to a stimulus. As long as the stimulus is around the effect continues. Once it is gone the effect fades. An Obama effect is a temporary shift in a long held belief system. And I don’t want to accept that as good enough.

Since before, and massively since, the election President Obama has been used as a reason for media to remember that African Americans have been a vital part of this nation since inception, are a rather large part of the population, and an enormous factor to the prosperity of the economy.

Television and movies have long ignored all of that. With the exception of the Cosby Show and a few programs that were on broadcast television at that same time, the small screen in everyone’s living room is devoid of people of color. In fact, once the Cosby Show went off-air (ending the Cosby effect), the executives in Hollywood seemingly scrambled to eliminate what they had created. Proof that Americans will watch a good program no matter the color of the stars.

At this point, the 9th year in a row, the line-up of television features 2 programs with Black actors as lead. They are on the smallest and least seen public television broadcast network, and hold the worst time-slot possible. Beyond this, there are 2 prominent Black actors in drama ensembles. And then there are 2 programs on cable television that feature Black casts. That’s it, out of over 120 programs just looking at broadcast television alone.

But President Obama will cause all that to change. Kiss my ass.

I do not need, nor should it take, the leader of our nation to be Black to make me aware of the abilities of tens of millions of Americans. There have long prior been examples of success in front of and behind cameras. There has long prior been proof of our viability. And to claim that only now people can see or accept this is insulting to generations of African Americans and the American public at large. To say nothing of the even less acknowledge or seen Latino/Hispanic and Asian communities.

Back in November of 2008

“It may say something about the state of American television that there is one more black president-elect of the United States than there are black actors with individual lead roles in a network television drama.”

Recently Bill Cosby had this to say about the supposed Obama effect and television

“No, because these people are stupid," he says, referring to network bosses. "Look at how NBC is struggling. You would think they would make some changes and be talking about trying to get another 'Cosby' kind of show. But they would probably die before putting another show on about a black family and black pride."

And Bishop T.D. Jakes stated

“I think sometimes the only images we see of people of color are the images that Hollywood projects: the hip-hop, the gangs, the street life. Now, it would be wonderful for them to recognize what has always existed in the African-American community and what Obama's presidency suggests: middle-class African-Americans who are articulate, intelligent and thoughtful."

And that is the issue. Hollywood wants African Americans to be limited to gangsta rappers or such ilk. President or not, African Americans are supposed to be bad guys, poor, uneducated and in need of a hand-out. Adding more African Americans because of President Obama is just that. And once he is out of office, just like with the Cosby effect, they can go back on message.

That is insulting. I don’t want laws to tell me that I am equal. I don’t want executives in Hollywood to portray African Americans in a movie or program because they want to enlighten me to success. These things should be obvious to anyone that looks around or reads more than a high school book on history.

America does not need an effect. We need respect. For those that work everyday, that contribute to the prosperity of the economy, of those that aren’t living the commoditization of Black culture. We need to acknowledge that without African Americans, America would have failed before it could have started. And that right this second, there are tens of thousands that are qualified and capable but overlooked because they have a permanent tan.

Jaime Foxx, Denzel Washington, Laurence Fishburne, Bill Cosby, Richard Pryor, Eddie Murphy, Sidney Poitier, Angela Bassett, Terrance Howard, Gabrielle Union, Oprah Winfrey, Spike Lee, Bill Duke, and so many others are not an Obama effect. They are not an effect at all. They are representatives of a far larger, more diverse community that has been right here for as long as America has been around – they have just been mostly ignored.

Trying to placate this vital segment of America with insincere transitional leftovers is not the answer. Though it does answer a sincere question that often is asked and I think best stated in the movie The Tuskegee Airmen.

“Lt. Col. Benjamin O. Davis Jr. – Andre Braugher -
…I ask myself the most difficult question everyday. How do I feel about my country… and how does my country feel about me.”

American Idol is for pikers, Harlem is for talent

With all the people that go out to American Idol each year I have to wonder why those that are serious actually show up there. Because when you think about it, it is one of the least successful avenues an entertainer can take to get recognized.

I came to this understanding the second I saw something most probably skipped over today. The announcement of the 75th year of the Apollo Theater’s Amateur Night. For longer than any of the judges on American Idol have been alive this one venue has been grooming and introducing talent to the nation. And many of those that have gotten their start at the Apollo have become bigger stars than all of the American Idol contestants (and judges) combined.

The Apollo was the start for:

Women –

India.Arie
Pearl Bailey
Josephine Baker
Mary J. Blige
Brandy
Blu Cantrell
Diahann Carroll
Faith Evans
Eve
Ella Fitzgerald
Celia Cruz
Roberta Flack
Aretha Franklin
Billie Holiday
Lauryn Hill
Lena Horne
Etta James
Alicia Keys
Eartha Kitt
Stephanie Mills
Chante Moore
Nina Simone
Jessica Simpson
Angie Stone
Leslie Uggams
Sarah Vaughan
Dionne Warwick
Dinah Washington
Ethel Waters

Men –

Harry Belafonte
Tony Bennett
Chuck Berry
Ruben Blades
James Brown
David Byrne
Ray Charles
Chubby Checker
Nat “King” Cole
Sean ”P. Diddy” Combs
Sam Cooke
D’Angelo
Chico DeBarge
Bo Diddley
Fats Domino
DMX
Marvin Gaye
Ginuwine
Al Green
Isaac Hayes
John Lee Hooker
Ja Rule
Michael Jackson
Jay-Z
Jadakiss
Jaheim
B.B. King
Ludacris
Johnny Mathis
Maxwell
Brian McKnight
Prince
Lou Rawls
Otis Redding
Busta Rhymes
Sisqo
Keith Sweat
Muddy Waters
Barry White
Jackie Wilson
Stevie Wonder

Groups –

Bob Marley & the Wailers
Buddy Holly and the Crickets
Dru Hill
El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico
Fugees
George Clinton &
Parliament/Funkadelic
Gladys Knight & the Pips
Isley Brothers
Jackson Five
Jagged Edge
Korn
Lisa Lisa & Cult Jam
Martha Reeves & the Vandellas
O’Jays
Patti Labelle & the Bluebelles

Musicians –

Louis Armstrong
Charlie Barnet
Count Basie
Cab Calloway
John Coltrane
Miles Davis
Duke Ellington
Dizzy Gillespie
Benny Goodman
Thelonius Monk
Charlie Parker
Louis Prima
Tito Puente
Buddy Rich
Max Roach

And others –

Sammy Davis Jr.
Bill Cosby
Redd Foxx
Whoopi Goldberg
Dick Gregory
Steve Harvey
Jackie “Moms” Mabley
Richard Pryor
Chris Rock
Sinbad
Flip Wilson
Ossie Davis
Ruby Dee
Kid Capri
Doug E. Fresh
Sidney Poitier
Paul Robeson

And I have cut the list down massively. Yet if you are between the ages of 25 to 80 you know names on this list. In fact you probably know a couple of dozen of them.

Now with all that talent focused from one source you might think that the Apollo Theater would be the biggest thing out there. The proving ground for up and coming entertainers. That American Idol would make homage for a legend, and that someone would be highlighting the importance of the place. But you know that won’t happen.

American Idol is a great gimmick. The purpose is not to find great lasting talent, but to make a quick profit off of manipulated fame. William Hung never deserved fame, yet Idol gave it to him, and we were the worse for it. Thousands of performers that might have a shot at some kind of career in entertainment have their spirits crushed on national TV and never go forward. It’s a shame.

Now I don’t know the numbers, but considering American Idol has 2 winners a season out of tens of thousands, compared to several categories of entertainers numbering in the hundreds competing at Apollo (dance, groups, individual singers, comedians, ect) each week; I don’t need rocket science to tell me where the better odds are. And looking at the ultimate success of the Idol winners versus the Apollo again Harlem wins.

So if you want to see the future superstar entertainers of America, I suggest you turn off the television and take a trip to Harlem. Because that’s where the real talent will be.

The real culprit in the Travolta extortion case

Normally I do not speak about the various scandals and personal issues that celebrities and entertainers may have from time to time. They are human beings and deserve to deal with life privately, as the rest of us do. But there are exceptions.

The death of John Travolta's son was a horrible thing to hear about. And I again give my condolences to the family. But what angers me is what some have done. I don't mean just the tabloid trash that is selling rags about this rumor or that. I could care less about that in general. It's about how low some supposed human beings will go.

In this understandably difficult time for the Travolta family, some scum (in my opinion) found it an opportunity to try to extort $25 million dollars from the family. That is revolting and depraved.Both because they thought this a great way to get rich, on the back of the death of a child, and because they knew that tabloids and so called news media would buy anything they could sell on this story and thus extend the grief and suffering the Travolta family must be feeling.

Thankfully the suspects are currently being arrested. But the biggest culprit in this case is going unhindered. In fact they are making money. The tabloids and the news media that created the problem in the first place.

In the rush to find and publish dirt and photos of any entertainer and celebrity, the media has created an environment where scum flourish. They feed like carrion on the minute details of every famous individuals life. They try to siphon off any aspect of individuality and infect any aspect of an ordinary life these stars might hope to have. Just so they can made an extra dollar.

There are some things that just should be off-limits. The children of entertainers. The sex lives of celebrities. The daily to and from that everyone needs to do. Yes, a celebrity showing up at a gala event is fair game, as is whatever they say and do there. But not in their private homes. Not in time with their family. Not when tragedy strikes them.

If a camera crew were to show up at your doorstep because your Dad had a heart attack, or your Mom had a stroke, you would be enraged. If your brother was arrested for speeding, or your sister was arrested for a fight you would be sick to see it on the evening news. So why is it called "entertainment" when the same information is splashed across televison and internet screens everyday?

It's one thing if a celeb and/or entertainer commits a crime. If they harm an individual. If they use their influence to corrupt our already skewed and often unjust system. It is a far cry different when they are just living life and dealing with the same issues we all do. Because shit happens to everyone in life, regardless of money or fame.

And it is this vicious need for to much information that is not worthy of public discussion that creates an environment where scum would think, probably correctly, that a scandal over the death of a child would cause innocent parents to fork over huge sums of money to spare the rest of their family and themselves further torture.

When I think about what caused these scum to try to extort the Travolta family in this hour of grief I feel sick. Hopefully some in the news media and the tabloids will feel the same, and maybe show some decency in the future. But I wouldn't make a bet on it.

M V Consulting, Inc. presents an interview with Nobel Peace Prize nominee Cynthia Basinet

Recently I had the good fortune to come into contact with Cynthia Basinet. Some of my readers may be familiar with Ms. Basinet from her rendition of Santa Baby – a song by the late Eartha Kitt that has become a Christmas staple, Ms. Basinet’s version often mistakenly credited to Marilyn Monroe.



Others may be aware of the humanitarian work that Ms. Basinet has done for the Saharawi people and Africa. That work includes an appearance before the U.N. in 2008 and a nomination for the 2005 Nobel Peace Prize (she was 1 of the 1000 women nominated together that year).

I found Ms. Basinet to be an interesting, compelling, and intelligent woman. She has had a life of many achievements and challenges. She has made strides to improve the world, created a career in music, film, and modeling, and is a mother. In talking with Ms. Basinet I learned many things I would never have guessed about her. And that compelled me to ask her for an interview to share with you. She graciously agreed.

I hope that this interview will entertain you and spark a desire to know more. About Ms. Basinet, Africa and humanitarian aide, and the choices in life that you can make.

“There are no limits beyond those you set for yourself.”

I was told that long ago. I believe it. And Ms. Basinet is proof of it. And so I present my interview with Cynthia Basinet.

Michael Vass: For a bit of background for those not familiar with you, please share with us where you were born, what growing up was like, and your early influences.



Cynthia Basinet: One day, my son then much younger was looking at a photo album of my childhood… and asked if life was like the photos or was that just the film?

You know, life was like that. I was born in the Valley ( Los Angeles ) and raised in Silicon Valley (the Bay Area). My parents drove Peugeots, an orange Volvo and host of other car oddities. My father also rode a motorcycle and had a vintage, “retired” MG TD. He used to smoke a pipe or sneak a cigar outside. Talk to me about the White Owl girl but mostly, he listened to jazz. Every moment of my childhood was filled with music and art. Mom with her classical AM station in the kitchen and jazz on Dad’s. Later, he added country. Mom a BA in the Arts. My earliest influences were three things, all from posters in the house.

First, the serenity prayer. The second, a poster shot in Harlem with all these kids holding instruments. Third, the infamous Indian poster.

MV: You started your career as a model, working mostly in Paris and London . How did that happen?

C: Got on a plane and expatriated for various reasons nearly five years.

MV: Education is a theme I've always felt as being important in life. How has your education affected your life?

C: There are two kinds of education. One you give yourself and the other one [life] gives you. Two of the best things that ever happened to me were the education of music in public schools and private catholic high school. A school that within its walls thought was allowed and diversity respected. I truly thank my parents for both.

MV: Music is something that seems to have always been a part of your life. You are trained as a flautist and play the saxophone (I learned the Alto sax myself). How did you transition from modeling to music?

C: First, kudos on your sax education. Second, music never left me but it was in this safe little box deep inside, ‘till I could finally pursue it. Think a lot of moms can agree… following your dreams kinda comes after you drop the kids off at basketball practice.

MV: What drew you to Jazz?

C: Well, other than being raised on Jazz… and it racing like a language in my veins? Would say the second time around was love.

MV: What first brought the needs of the Saharawi people to your attention?

C: It’s no secret that my music career, like so many others, required self-determination. This concept intrigued me when applied to whole societies. That perhaps my experiences could help others on a larger scale.

MV: In 2001 you visited the Western Sahara and those living in refugee camps there. What compelled you to do this?



C: Wanted to give a voice to their society living under a peaceful resolution, that were also self-determined and under represented.

MV: You have been an outspoken advocate for the Saharawi people and Africa in general for almost a decade now. What drives you in these causes?

C: Believe Oprah said it best when she basically stated if you are a woman born in America, you are among the luckiest. That during my entire life… there was no struggle that didn’t lead me to realize others had it worse and they needed to be heard. They needed access.

MV: In 2005 you were recognized as 1 of 1000 women nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize. How was that experience?

C: Being included with such amazing women that literally have done such "nobel" work; many times working in danger to achieve what is necessary for improvements in others lives, was incredible.

MV: What has that recognition allowed you to do?

C: The recognition allowed me to speak on behalf of the Saharwian people and other political activities.



MV: October 2008, you petitioned again to the UN to gain help against the difficulties to life in the Western Sahara including: Diabetes, Tuberculosis, Acute Malnutrition, Landmines, and many others. How was that experience?

C: It’s frustrating. They, the UN, are paid stewards of the Saharwian people amongst others and yet…

MV: You have used your jazz recordings to highlight your humanitarian efforts, especially your acclaimed rendition of the late Eartha Kitt's Santa Baby. Was this always your intention or did it grow out of your compassion?

C: Originally, had always entertained the idea to release a song that all could sing to at the Millennium (inspired by the Coke jingle, “If I Could Teach The World To Sing“). Then as it was “Santa Baby” that gave me the exposure, figured [I] should do something that she would have done. So when the invitation came to help raise awareness for the Saharwian people, did not skip a beat in accepting their plea.

MV: As a woman what challenges have you faced in your life?

C: It’s all in my mind. ;-) But will say, that being a mom, specially a single mom, is so isolating and requires endless pools of unconditional love and care… that that challenge alone needs us all working together. Like a village. That is what my time in France gave me.

MV: You have also had a career in movies; is that something you will pursue more in the future?

C: Sure be nice. ;-)

MV: One of the humanitarian efforts that I find important is the ongoing actions to end the genocide in Darfur. How do you feel about this tragedy?

C: Truly a tragedy. It is so difficult in these modern times where we can see the problem in real time, but we can’t seem to really stop it. I am truly horrified by the continued barbarity perpetuated on the already demeaned, demoralized and displaced citizens of Darfur. If this new century and millennium could be about one thing, it needs to be humanity. The right to live a humane life. And in peace.

MV: How about the Child Soldier Prevention Act?

C: I am so impressed this is one of your featured causes because these are the future fathers of Africa. No amount a pain and suffering inflicted in one area of the World, does not eventually affect us all. Whether it be the prevention of child soldiers in Africa, street children in Brazil or children sold into various forms of slavery [it] has no place. We are all too aware and affluent to do nothing. We can boycott, petition and finance so much change. We can stand as a shining example for other leading nations, like China to follow suit.

MV: In recent years women have taken important positions in business and politics. For my female readers what might you advise them about following their passions?

C: I know… what a trip the past few years have been. Interesting because it’s also a time when so much media and advertising attention is played to the distractions in women’s lives. Weight, beauty… and the unclearness of the opposite sex. Like SO much time is spent, derailed. No product or ideas produced. The key is to be of good mind and form and you can accomplish anything.

MV: What might you suggest for those looking for more information or ways to provide humanitarian aide?



C: Pick a cause or a country, look for non-profits that aid your cause or contact directly the embassy near you for your country of interest. So much can be found by research through the Internet.

MV: Among your many accomplishments you have found the time to have and raise a son. Is their any secret or technique you can pass on to mothers that wish to balance their career and family?

C: Every mom needs time for a good bath. Seriously, believe moms can ask for more help from their children, partners, etc.

MV: And finally what is the next project my readers can look forward to see and/or hear from you?

C: In the studio now… stay tuned. :)

I want to thank Ms. Basinet for taking the time to share her thoughts with me, and you my readers. I hope that this has helped spark an interest in education, humanitarian aide, self-improvement, and at the same time given you some entertainment.

If you would like to know more about Cynthia Basinet please click here.

Click here to learn more about Darfur, and the on-going genocide there.

And here for commentary on the Child Soldier Prevention Act.

You can read the full transcripts of Ms. Basinet speaking at the UN.

A lie said by millions

"You keep using that word. I do not think it means what you think it means." - Inigo Montoya - Princess Bride

Yesterday I was speaking about Good Hair, the upcoming documentary by Chris Rock. After having written about this subject I was brought back to an old pet peeve of mine. A common saying that is obtuse and an oxymoron. And everyone has heard it.

In countless films, emails, books, and nowadays internet dating sites you have seen

“Tall, dark, and handsome”

Now because of the conditioning of the media most will imagine Cary Grant, Mel Gibson, Leonardo DiCaprio or some other famous White guy. But that is completely counter-intuitive. It just is stupid.

Dark defined as:

Black, shadowed or black, having a dark hue, colored: having skin rich in melanin pigments

Since the meaning of the word is definitive, and in no application equating to white, light, pink or pale, I am at a loss of how the hell anyone can take that phrase to mean a White male of any sort.

It is solely through the manipulation of the media and Hollywood that anyone might confuse what the hell is being said. Such that “tall, dark, and handsome” should in reality bring up thoughts of Denzel Washington, Jamie Foxx , Sidney Poitier, Morgan Freeman, or Michael Clarke Duncan and so on.

It is so absurd as to be absolutely common. And I doubt many non-people of color ever thing twice about how stupid that statement is.

Is this a big deal? No, not in a change of life sense. But it does say something about long-term depictions of people of color and subtle unconscious preferences in the nation. At least I think so.

Billions are spent every year for people to go and “get some color”. Tens of millions travel the globe to have their skin darken, though temporarily, and gain a “healthy tone”. And the search for eternal love is often filled with the above statement. At every turn it is a statement of the beauty of people of color.

Yet to consciously state such in public is abominable. Instead we get so much media influence that the obvious is now the wrong answer. Talk about love and hate. No wonder western society is so screwed up.

And before I get the hate-mail, or those trying to justify the phrase, those from Mediterranean backgrounds are not dark. When I stand next to an Italian man, he does not look like me. He is not confused as Black. He may be more pink or tan than some, especially after being out in the sun, but there is no question as to whether he is Black.

Look this is not about race as much as it is about language and the meanings American society places in those words. It is a wake up call that some things are just too stupid for intelligent people in the 21st century to do. It is a reminder that if we allow such obvious blatant falsehoods to continue unabated and unquestioned, we equally allow the breeding grounds for racism and prejudice to grow,

So it’s obvious. The next time you use that phrase indicate that you are speaking about a Black person. And if you overhear a friend use the term incorrectly, remind them how dumb they are being. Because I really am beyond annoyed at hearing it used as it has been.

Burn Notice starts new season after a bang

The new season of Burn Notice on USA Network has started. Not with a bang, but the aftermath of one.



In last seasons cliffhanger we saw our favorite ex-spy virtually blown up, which can never be good for the spirit nor the body. And it wasn’t as we quickly see.

Michael () is in very bad shape. Injured he barely has enough time to assess his near death before he is under chase again. And he is not happy about it.

Now let me take a step back for a moment. I did not start out as a fan of this program. In fact, I rarely bothered to watch the initial episodes. But as this new season approached I had the chance to see several episodes back to back. Add to that the occasional episode I saw during the first run. Combined this has caught my interest.

One of the biggest factors for my interest is Bruce Campbell (Sam Axe on the show). I am a fan of his characters and find his presence on the small and large screen to be fun and comforting. He adds a bit of whimsy to his characters and any situation he is in. And for this show his character takes away from the drama and constant action without distraction. Without his character you would be left with a very bad version of James Bond in Miami.

One of the worst things about the show is Fiona (Gabrielle Anwar). Often called Fi, she is the other side of Bruce Campbell’s Sam. She is violent, short-tempered, and near anorexic. She is supposed to be an expert fighter and the ex-girlfriend of our star Michael. I can understand why she is an ex. With due respect she needs to eat a cheeseburger, or 20.

There is a difference of being skinny and looking anorexic to me. As she looks like slightly more than bones I am always amazed when she is in any physical confrontation, like when the wind is blowing. Let alone anytime she gets into an actual fight. Perhaps that is why her character is successful, no one would ever expect her to survive hitting anyone, let alone getting hit.

And of course I should mention Jeffrey Donovan playing Michael, our ex-operative seeking vengeance. He is played well as the balance between the 2 extremes of his cohorts. He is intelligent without feeling like the omniscient Bond. He practices often giving credibility to what he can do. The narratives that occur on the show (voiced by his character), explaining critical decisions or responses, make perfect sense and fill in otherwise obvious plot holes.

Another thing I like about the entire show is that everyone can be hurt. Being caught in an explosion leaves bruises, being punched can make you bleed. Nothing is worse than watching a character being beat down by 3 guys and standing up without a scratch, or being caught in an explosion and 5 minutes later running around as if they just got out of the gym with Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Back to the new season. It follows the usual theme of someone needing Michael’s help while he is sporadically interrupted by Carla. Though now Carla (Tricia Helfer – the 2 best thing about Battlestar Galactica) and Michael are seemingly aligned in learning who tried to kill him - thus hinder Carla’s interests. Carla, and perhaps a well-funded organization behind her, are responsible for Michael having lost his profession. Michael despises this group, and Carla, who enforce his subservience via threats on his family.

And as the show is progressing family is a bigger and bigger theme in our ex-spy’s life. In several episodes he has gone against his training and better judgment to come to the aid of children, and families, in need. This is his fatal flaw I believe. And I expect will be used against him at some point.

The season opening show was good. I won’t go further into details of the episode beyond the fact that it is again the needs of a child that motivates him. And that the mysterious Carla and her organization may not be as large or well-funded as we may have first thought.

The reason I am interested in this program is that it is intelligent. Yes there are explosions every episode, and yes most of the shots miss everything as if it were an episode of the A-Team. But Michael and the team think through their missions. It’s more akin to the original Mission Impossible than the average television fare.

Is the show absolutely compelling? No. But if you spend the time to catch up with the histories of the characters, you will find yourself interested in the on-going story arcs and subtlies of the program.

Burn Notice is not the best program on televison right now, nor the most watched (the 2 are not often related) but it is a worthwhile departure from the norm. It’s a program that you can watch and remember what you have seen afterward, which these days is hard to find.

Chris Rock is on a quest of Good Hair

Here is a question that few ever ask. Do you like your hair?

The question has a multitude of answers depending on whom you ask. For many aging men, the answer may be no since many are losing their hair and facing being bald. And there are tens of millions made to make those men feel better by giving them more hair. Ask men that are going grey and the answer provided accounts for tens of millions on coloring additives.

But when you ask women it starts to get really tricky. And then if you are speaking to Black women, you might just get slapped.

Black women are very particular about their hair. Whether its getting it straightened, adding a weave (never ask a Black woman if she has a weave), getting braids, coloring, or maintaining a natural look a majority of Black women have difficulty with their hair. And that adds up to roughly 2 billion dollars every year.

Black women spend between 2 – 6 times as much on their hair as any other group of women. They are the single largest group that the hair care industry caters to. The majority of that money flows out of Black communities and never returns, though you can always find several hair care shops near and in every Black community across America.

Because every Black woman wants “good hair”. Whatever that means to the individual woman.

It’s a subject that Black men rarely address, and most other non-African Americans inevitably end up insulting when they bring it up. Because most do not understand what they are speaking about, nor do they respect the differences they find.

Perhaps this is why when Chris Rock’s daughter asked him about having good hair, he was inspired to make a movie about the industry.



Now I admit I am no expert on the subject. In fact I am saying so little because I know better. But I am interested in seeing this documentary. Because I am fascinated at how so many women are driven to seek out “good hair” to extreme.

In reflecting on the thought I have to say that the media has a coup in this arena. Because it has completely sold the idea that a Black woman should have hair that is reflective of genetics they don’t have. And the rest of us just assume that’s the way it’s supposed to be. Which is stupid not ignorant, because we should all know better at a glance.

The more I think of the topic, the more I want to see what Chris Rock has made. He already is clear that this is his best film work ever. While Puttie Tang is not hard to top (why did anyone let you make that?) it is quite a statement for someone in the industry for over 20 years and 31 films not including this documentary or his stand-up comedy.

I have not seen the film yet, nor any trailer footage. But in general I would say that whatever your hair, it is good. Whether you are going salt-and-pepper, with a bit of thinning, like me or braids, or whatever. The question women, and men, of whatever race ask should never be ‘how do I get good hair’ but ‘why can’t others see how beautiful (handsome) I am regardless of my hair’.

U.S. soccer - buying fans is a bad idea

Soccer in the U.S. is anything but a major sport. And there are hordes of reasons that I have heard for why it is not.

The game is too hard to understand – as opposed to the multitude of rules in Hockey, Basketball, Football, and BaseBall (pine tar??). Or that the scores are too low, or that the game is too slow (sprinting over a football field for 45 minutes at a clip is much slower than 10 innings of baseball right). The list of complaints goes on and on. But the honest answer is that America basically sucks at futbol (what the rest of the world calls soccer).

Still we have improved and gotten a bit of respect in recent World Cup showings. No longer are we the absolute laughing stock of soccer. Though we are definitely close to Canada in terms of world-wide respect for our abilities. And deservedly so.

But there is an effort to get that to change. With the MLS (Major League Soccer) performing slightly better than the WNBA – is that still around? – and having lasted longer than most detractors would ever have guessed it is gaining some attention. And the addition of David Beckham has done wonders for his bank accounts, while providing marginal improvements to the U.S.

Yet America needs something more. Something big to grab the attention of our incredibly fanatical sports fans. The MLS is definitely trying to figure out how to grab a slice of that pie. Fans of the caliber of say the chesseheads in Minnesota or the dog pound in Cleveland would assure success for generations.

Thus the Chicago Blackhawks decided to do what most American politicians want to do with the economy. They threw money at the fans. Not literally, but far more than figurative.

When Chicago’s right wing Mark Havlat scored a goal in the 71st minute (10 minutes into the second half), the only one of the game for Chicago, all the fans were subjected to a random competition. The prize was $1,000,000 for whomever was randomly drawn from the crowd.

The name of the winner is not known at this time. And the random drawing was sponsored by the Illinois State Lottery. Talk about having a dream. You go to the game hoping your team will win and you leave planning your next new home purchase. Tell me that won’t make a fan out of that someone.

Still I think the idea is flawed. Yes there is one family that will definitely go to every game the Blackhawks ever have at home, but that is not a fan base. Some people will show up at the next game hoping to win money as well, and a few might become fans, but that is not passion for the game motivating them.

Take the same million dollars and spend it on say having the top 5 state high school soccer teams go to 5 home games and 5 away games, all in the comfort of the VIP rooms. That will build fans. Especially if they get to take 1 parent with them. That’s getting people who are involved and dedicated a reason to get fanatical. It gives them all something to brag about.

Seem silly? Go to any small town in the mid-west and ask them about their football or baseball or basketball team. Without question they will brag about whichever team is the best for the area, and how well they did about whatever. And I bet that not one of the local games ever goes less than half full. Those are the fans U.S. soccer wants.

Soccer in the U.S. will always be marginally second-rate as long as we forget the fans. If I owned a MLS team I’d remember that big money is nice, but fans support whether you win or lose. And that is the real money. And the real success for Team USA.

I have often regretted my speech, never my silence

"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." - Edmund Burke (1729-1797)

For those that are still angry, concerned, or just learning of the murder of Oscar Grant I want to mention that I have not forgotten. I still am following the details as best I can on what is going on.

From time to time I will have further updates on this case, and any other issue that involves race relations in America, on this blog. But as I have sought to focus more deeply on entertainment and its various aspects on this blog, I will be posting many of the interim thoughts I have on this at my political and general blog – VASS (www.mvass.com)

"A people that values its privileges above its principles soon loses both." - Dwight D. Eisenhower (1890-1969), Inaugural Address, January 20, 1953

As much as the media wanted to say all race issues are over, as much as many of us want to believe that racism and prejudice have ended, the fact is that neither is true. President Obama taking office is a huge, wonderful, historic moment towards a day where such will be true, but that is not today.

"Once is happenstance. Twice is coincidence. Three times is enemy action." - Auric Goldfinger, in "Goldfinger" by Ian L. Fleming (1908-1964)

Right now there have been 3 murders of Black men since the start of 2009, after the election of President Obama. Oscar Grant and the following:





Right now there are millions of children with substandard schools and school books – focused on areas where there are high concentrations of African Americans, Latino/Hispanics, and other ‘minorities’. Right now minorities across the nation receive less pay versus a White peer. Almost 1% of all the major CEO’s are people of color. And the media, including Hollywood, maintains roughly 5% of its workforce that are people of color – combined – in front of and behind the camera and in the executive offices.

The dream of Martin Luther King, the demands of Malcolm X, the struggles of those involved in the Civil Rights Movement are not over.

"In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." - Martin Luther King Jr. (1929-1968)

So I will continue to discuss these things, until one day there is no longer a need. I hope for that day to be soon. But until then, most of my commentary will be found at VASS.

"I have often regretted my speech, never my silence." - Xenocrates (396-314 B.C.)

The Razzie Award nominations are out

Ah, what is January without the annual Razzie Award nominations. Not that 2008 was a year lacking actors, actresses, and films aplenty for the nominations. In fact I’m sure the judges had quite the time trying to narrow the field.

But the Razzies generally pick the top of the worst of any given year. And unlike the Oscars, the film nominated here you have definitely heard of, and sadly might have seen. Such is the shame of Hollywood year after year.

For 2009 we have the following, with my comments included:

Worst Picture:

Disaster Movie
In the Name of the King: A Dungeon Siege Tale
Meet the Spartans
The Happening - boring
The Hottie & the Nottie – any movie that would have Paris Hilton in it should automatically be nominated, if not win.
**Why is The Day The Earth Stood Still not in this?**

Worst Actor

Mike Myers - The Love Guru
Eddie Murphy - Meet Dave - What is wrong with Murphy these days. He can be so much better than this.
Al Pacino - 88 Minutes and Righteous Kill
Mark Wahlberg - The Happening and Max Payne - Neither film was worth the money
Larry the Cable Guy - Witless Protection - How he cannot win I can’t imagine.
**I know everyone seems to disagree, because he is dead, but Heath Ledger’s Joker sucked.**
***And Keanu Reeves deserves to be in this group more than Wahlberg does, for his work in The Day The Earth Stood Still***

Worst Actress

Jessica Alba - The Love Guru and The Eye - She is just really bad.
Cameron Diaz - What Happens in Vegas - Embarrassing
Paris Hilton - The Hottie & the Nottie - The must win choice. The other ladies may have tried but they all have far more talent in their sleep than Hilton at her best (if such a moment exists).
Kate Hudson - Fool's Gold and My Best Friend's Girl
The Entire Cast of "The Women" - Annette Bening, Eva Mendes, Debra Messing, Jada Pinkett-Smith and Meg Ryan.

Worst Supporting Actor

Uwe Boll, Postal
Pierce Brosnan - Mamma Mia! - How far we have fallen since The Matador and Bond.
Ben Kingsley, The Love Guru, War, Inc., The Wackness - I like him, but War, Inc. just puts him over the top in this one.
Burt Reynolds, Deal and In The Name Of The King: A Dungeon Siege Tale
Verne Troyer, The Love Guru and Postal.

Worst Supporting Actress

Carmen Electra - Disaster Movie, Meet The Spartans - Hey, be nice she can’t do better.
Paris Hilton - Repo! The Genetic Opera; - Yet another film proving that were it not for money she would have nothing to justify her life
Kim Kardashian - Disaster Movie
Jenny Mccarthy, Witless Protection; - She deserves it just for appearing in the film
Leelee Sobieski - 88 Minutes, In The Name Of The King: A Dungeon Siege Tale

Worst Screen Couple

Uwe Boll and Any Actor, Camera and Screenplay
Cameron Diaz and Ashton Kutcher, What Happens In Vegas - The only words I have are, I understand why they got a Razzie
Paris Hilton and either Christine Lakin or Jorel David Moore, The Hottie And The Nottie - Again the queen of too much money and no talent stands out.
Larry The Cable Guy and Jenny Mccarthy, Witless Protection; - Giving Paris Hilton the only kind of competition she deserves.
Eddie Murphy In Eddie Murphy, Meet Dave. – Not really a couple now is it?

Worst Prequel, Sequel, Remake Or Rip-Off

The Day The Earth Stood Still - Horrendous remake, the writer should be slapped.
Disaster Movie
Meet The Spartans
Indiana Jones And The Kingdom Of The Crystal Skull
Speed Racer - Someone was on drugs when they filmed this. Give me the original cartoon anytime.
Star Wars: The Clone Wars - George Lucas can’t need the money that bad, can he?
**Max Payne fits this category, as it is a ripoff of the video game. And a bad ripoff at that.**
***Again in the ripoff, a film that stole from at least 3 other films - Doomsday. If you missed it, be happy.***

Worst Director

Uwe Boll - Tunnel Rats, In The Name Of The King: A Dungeon Siege Tale And Postal
Jason Friedberg And Aaron Seltzer - Disaster Movie And Meet The Spartans - And anyone expected better in these ripoff ideas?
Tom Putnam - The Hottie And The Nottie - Paris Hilton, do I need to say anything more?
Marco Schnabel - The Love Guru
M. Night Shyamalan, The Happening. – The best film to put you to sleep.

Worst Screenplay

Jason Friedberg and Aaron Seltzer - Disaster Movie And Meet The Spartans - The obvious favorites to win.
M. Night Shyamalan - The Happening
Heidi Ferrer - The Hottie And The Nottie
Doug Taylor - In The Name Of The King: A Dungeon Siege Tale
Mike Myers and Graham Gordy, The Love Guru
**Actually I don’t understand how The Day The Earth Stood Still missed this category**

Worst Career Achievement

Uwe Boll - "Germany's answer to Ed Wood" - Ed Wood was funny at least.

Such are my thoughts of the films worth of Razzie’s in 2008. Perhaps you know of a film that deserved to be on this list? Let me know because no one should need to own a DVD of films of this quality. Even if you need a Frisbee in an emergency.

Oh and here is an early prediction for 2009, Notorious will top a few of the categories here.

President Obama's inaugural speech

While I may not agree with the politics of President Obama, there should be no question that I respect and admire the man. He has accomplished something I have grown up thinking was impossible in my lifetime. He is an inspiration, and is the image of America. Never doubt that my differences cloud my sight of what he has done, and what doors he has opened for the nation.

Here is a copy of the text from the inaugural speech made today. Please feel free to copy it, and print it out. I have.

My fellow citizens:

I stand here today humbled by the task before us, grateful for the trust you have bestowed, mindful of the sacrifices borne by our ancestors. I thank President Bush for his service to our nation, as well as the generosity and cooperation he has shown throughout this transition.

Forty-four Americans have now taken the presidential oath. The words have been spoken during rising tides of prosperity and the still waters of peace. Yet, every so often the oath is taken amidst gathering clouds and raging storms. At these moments, America has carried on not simply because of the skill or vision of those in high office, but because we the people have remained faithful to the ideals of our forebears, and true to our founding documents.

So it has been. So it must be with this generation of Americans.

That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood. Our nation is at war, against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred. Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some, but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age. Homes have been lost; jobs shed; businesses shuttered. Our health care is too costly; our schools fail too many; and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet.

These are the indicators of crisis, subject to data and statistics. Less measurable but no less profound is a sapping of confidence across our land — a nagging fear that America's decline is inevitable, and that the next generation must lower its sights.

Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, America — they will be met.

On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.

On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics.

We remain a young nation, but in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.

In reaffirming the greatness of our nation, we understand that greatness is never a given. It must be earned. Our journey has never been one of shortcuts or settling for less. It has not been the path for the faint-hearted — for those who prefer leisure over work, or seek only the pleasures of riches and fame. Rather, it has been the risk-takers, the doers, the makers of things — some celebrated but more often men and women obscure in their labor, who have carried us up the long, rugged path towards prosperity and freedom.

For us, they packed up their few worldly possessions and traveled across oceans in search of a new life.

For us, they toiled in sweatshops and settled the West; endured the lash of the whip and plowed the hard earth.

For us, they fought and died, in places like Concord and Gettysburg; Normandy and Khe Sanh.

Time and again these men and women struggled and sacrificed and worked till their hands were raw so that we might live a better life. They saw America as bigger than the sum of our individual ambitions; greater than all the differences of birth or wealth or faction.

This is the journey we continue today. We remain the most prosperous, powerful nation on Earth. Our workers are no less productive than when this crisis began. Our minds are no less inventive, our goods and services no less needed than they were last week or last month or last year. Our capacity remains undiminished. But our time of standing pat, of protecting narrow interests and putting off unpleasant decisions — that time has surely passed. Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the work of remaking America.

For everywhere we look, there is work to be done. The state of the economy calls for action, bold and swift, and we will act — not only to create new jobs, but to lay a new foundation for growth. We will build the roads and bridges, the electric grids and digital lines that feed our commerce and bind us together. We will restore science to its rightful place, and wield technology's wonders to raise health care's quality and lower its cost. We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories. And we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age. All this we can do. All this we will do.

Now, there are some who question the scale of our ambitions — who suggest that our system cannot tolerate too many big plans. Their memories are short. For they have forgotten what this country has already done; what free men and women can achieve when imagination is joined to common purpose, and necessity to courage.

What the cynics fail to understand is that the ground has shifted beneath them — that the stale political arguments that have consumed us for so long no longer apply. The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works — whether it helps families find jobs at a decent wage, care they can afford, a retirement that is dignified. Where the answer is yes, we intend to move forward. Where the answer is no, programs will end. Those of us who manage the public's dollars will be held to account — to spend wisely, reform bad habits, and do our business in the light of day — because only then can we restore the vital trust between a people and their government.

Nor is the question before us whether the market is a force for good or ill. Its power to generate wealth and expand freedom is unmatched, but this crisis has reminded us that without a watchful eye, the market can spin out of control — and that a nation cannot prosper long when it favors only the prosperous. The success of our economy has always depended not just on the size of our gross domestic product, but on the reach of our prosperity; on our ability to extend opportunity to every willing heart — not out of charity, but because it is the surest route to our common good.

As for our common defense, we reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals. Our founding fathers ... our founding fathers, faced with perils we can scarcely imagine, drafted a charter to assure the rule of law and the rights of man, a charter expanded by the blood of generations. Those ideals still light the world, and we will not give them up for expedience's sake. And so to all the other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman, and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and that we are ready to lead once more.

Recall that earlier generations faced down fascism and communism not just with missiles and tanks, but with sturdy alliances and enduring convictions. They understood that our power alone cannot protect us, nor does it entitle us to do as we please. Instead, they knew that our power grows through its prudent use; our security emanates from the justness of our cause, the force of our example, the tempering qualities of humility and restraint.

We are the keepers of this legacy. Guided by these principles once more, we can meet those new threats that demand even greater effort — even greater cooperation and understanding between nations. We will begin to responsibly leave Iraq to its people, and forge a hard-earned peace in Afghanistan. With old friends and former foes, we will work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat, and roll back the specter of a warming planet. We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken; you cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you.

For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness. We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus — and non-believers. We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this Earth; and because we have tasted the bitter swill of civil war and segregation, and emerged from that dark chapter stronger and more united, we cannot help but believe that the old hatreds shall someday pass; that the lines of tribe shall soon dissolve; that as the world grows smaller, our common humanity shall reveal itself; and that America must play its role in ushering in a new era of peace.

To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect. To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West — know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy. To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.

To the people of poor nations, we pledge to work alongside you to make your farms flourish and let clean waters flow; to nourish starved bodies and feed hungry minds. And to those nations like ours that enjoy relative plenty, we say we can no longer afford indifference to the suffering outside our borders; nor can we consume the world's resources without regard to effect. For the world has changed, and we must change with it.

As we consider the road that unfolds before us, we remember with humble gratitude those brave Americans who, at this very hour, patrol far-off deserts and distant mountains. They have something to tell us, just as the fallen heroes who lie in Arlington whisper through the ages. We honor them not only because they are guardians of our liberty, but because they embody the spirit of service; a willingness to find meaning in something greater than themselves. And yet, at this moment — a moment that will define a generation — it is precisely this spirit that must inhabit us all.

For as much as government can do and must do, it is ultimately the faith and determination of the American people upon which this nation relies. It is the kindness to take in a stranger when the levees break, the selflessness of workers who would rather cut their hours than see a friend lose their job which sees us through our darkest hours. It is the firefighter's courage to storm a stairway filled with smoke, but also a parent's willingness to nurture a child, that finally decides our fate.

Our challenges may be new. The instruments with which we meet them may be new. But those values upon which our success depends — hard work and honesty, courage and fair play, tolerance and curiosity, loyalty and patriotism — these things are old. These things are true. They have been the quiet force of progress throughout our history. What is demanded then is a return to these truths. What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility — a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation, and the world, duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character, than giving our all to a difficult task.

This is the price and the promise of citizenship.

This is the source of our confidence — the knowledge that God calls on us to shape an uncertain destiny.

This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed — why men and women and children of every race and every faith can join in celebration across this magnificent Mall, and why a man whose father less than sixty years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath.

So let us mark this day with remembrance, of who we are and how far we have traveled. In the year of America's birth, in the coldest of months, a small band of patriots huddled by dying campfires on the shores of an icy river. The capital was abandoned. The enemy was advancing. The snow was stained with blood. At a moment when the outcome of our revolution was most in doubt, the father of our nation ordered these words be read to the people:



"Let it be told to the future world ... that in the depth of winter, when nothing but hope and virtue could survive...that the city and the country, alarmed at one common danger, came forth to meet (it)."



America, in the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words. With hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come. Let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations.

Thank you. God bless you. And God bless the United States of America.

The power for young minds is back on

Here is something that probably escaped all mention or notice as the inauguration has approached. An old friend is about to return to the nation.

Yes a favorite of tens of millions will be returning to television. A show seen across the land, and has led to some of the greatest stars in recent decades. Well at least 2 anyway. I’m sure some of my younger readers are thinking, ‘But American Idol already started its season’. Such a thought is nowhere near the answer.

The show in fact is far more intelligent, and universal in appeal. It’s the Electric Company.



Now fans of the early Sesame Street, a program now considered too adult for children, will know this show in a second. The 2 programs were the hallmark of PBS in my youth. Educational, fun, and captivating. Long into our teens, many watch these programs.

And it was quite the surprise the day that Morgan Freeman, known to us best as Easy Reader on Electric Company, became a movie star. But at the same time having him portray characters larger than life, or with enormous gravitas, seemed welcome with his familiar presence.

And Rita Moreno is no minor B-actress. She is a star of stage and films. She was one of a few Latina/Hispanic women to rise to fame during the 70’s and 80’s. Today she is still a star and has no less a commanding presence. And unlike the multitude of actresses today, she is without the scandal and tarnished image that so many young girls are fed by the media as attributes of success and fame.



But Electric Company was taken of the air. And Sesame Street was left alone, helping children learn and grow. PBS became a lonelier place.

Now that will change. As will the Electric Company. A new generation of young adults will takeover. Their goal is the same though. To help kids (and occasionally adults too) learn to read english.

But the means of these lessons, and new words, is quite different. This will be a narrative story. Based almost like a series. With bad guys, and a plot driven story as opposed to situational skits. And I almost forgot about the song-and-dance routines in the New York City streets.

I am sure this is part of the new kid safe programming that condemns the old Sesame Street to adult only ratings. As such I am filled with foreboding about the presentation, and its ability to educate the masses. The goal of this program is not ratings, or future superstardom of its talent pool, but the children expanding their minds. Still the Electric Company has not turned on its lights yet. That comes on January 23rd.

Will this be the joyous program of the past? No. Will it be a boon to children across the nation? Possibly. Will Easy Reader ever make a special appearance on the program? They can only hope and pray he would.

Yet, for all the misgivings I have about the new paradigm in education, and children’s television and programming, I truly hope this will instill a desire to learn and read. Children need whatever motivation we can give them to expand their minds beyond the brain-numbing life-limiting fare of American Idol, gangsta rap videos, reality television, and children-know-best programs that proliferate the various networks these days.

So I hope when the call goes out, “Hey you guys!”, the response will be minds turning on and not just television sets.

A quick update from Michael Vass

Well there is nothing like the internet. But like any business, sometimes you have to stop and fix the equipment. And that is what has happened over the last couple of days for me.

But everything is up and running again. So I have a bit to catch up with. Sorry for the delay.

Introducing 2009 male calendar model Shawn Kennedy

When we say that our online store has something for almost everyone, we mean it.

This time round we took some time and found a male model to give the ladies something cheerful to look at for 2009. In our search we found Shawn Kennedy.


The 2009 calendars featuring Shawn Kennedy are a mix of sexy, flirty, fun photos. And like the previous models of M V Consulting, Inc. Shawn Kennedy is a real person. Which we think makes the calendar all that much more better.

And like all the items, blog posts and sites of the Company we are looking at the world as our audience. Thus you can expect even more models from various locations, ethnic backgrounds, ages, sex, races, and so on.


Check out the full range of products of all our models at our online store (www.cafepress.com/nova68). While you are there keep an eye out for the next set of clothing lines we will be launching shortly. Currently we have over 1500 different items in 18 unique designed clothing lines.

If you are interested in modeling for M V Consulting, get in touch with us and let us know. Maybe you will be our next model we feature to over 125 countries each month.

Don Cheadle secures production deal with NBC

Don Cheadle is one of my favorite current actors. He has talent, charisma, and a strong sense of charity. He is among a small group of celebrities and entertainers that has a passion for the things he believes in, and not for the fame his abilities has generated.



Cheadle is continuing his record of success and wide ranging talent with his production company Crescendo Productions. His company just signed a 2 year deal with NBC to develop television shows. This is not the first time that he has done this. He already executive produced the Starz/Liongate series Crash, which is based on the Oscar winning movie of the same name (of which he also produced).

In fact Cheadle's Crescendo Productions has produced the movie Traitor and Darfur Now, both of which he starred in. And of course Darfur is a subject that Cheadle is highly aware of. He has helped to raise awareness of the genocide occurring right now, for more than 5 years, in that region of Africa more than any other actor/actress, celebrity, and entertainer that I am aware of. In fact he has done more to raise awareness than the entire news media combined in my opinion.

So considering his talent, ambition, and compassion I can't help but be a fan of Don Cheadle. And I am looking forward to his upcoming films. Perhaps not the kid-oriented Hotel for Dogs, but the biopic of Miles Davis and Iron Man 2.

And with the inauguration of President-elect Obama near, and February's Black History Month fast approaching I have to wonder why so much attention is being placed on a dead foolish entertainer that glorified a lifestyle of violence ignorance and crime versus those celebrities and entertainers, like Don Cheadle, that are living symbols of intelligence, compassion, success, and talent?

A gentleman lost: Ricardo Montalban - 88

Today is a very sad day indeed. Ricardo Montalban died today at the grand age of 88.

I have always enjoyed Montalban in movies and the television. While I am old enough to remember the first run of Fantasy Island this is not the role that most reminds me of him. When I think of his name I often think of his portrayals of Khan Noonien Singh from Star Trek. He made the character larger than life, and I loved it.

But I must say that see ing him in the Spy Kids series was also a pleasure. In fact I cannot think of a role that he portrayed that was not of solid quality. No matter the venue, Montalban made the most of every moment on either screen and stage, even if it was just his voice and/or just for kids. He appeared in 34 films and 31 television shows including his 6 years on Fantasy Island and 5 years on the children's cartoon Kim Possible.

There is no real comparison these days to the gentlemanly nature of his voice, and the strength in his eyes. He was in every sense a Spaniard, a Mexican, a star and gentleman. Too few can stand near the presence he made. And I truely am at a loss to name a Latino/Hispanic actor or actress that exists now with such stature or acting ability.

I send my condolences to his family. Family and friends have lost a piece of thier heart, Hollywood has lost a great star, but for the rest of us we have lost a presence that cannot be replaced.

A karate chop to your funnybone

OK, here is a scary thought. Take an iconic film from the 1980's and give it a remake. Considering the films of the 80's there is no end to the chills you may get.

In this case there is a potential silver lining in the making. Actually 2. But first the film. It's the Karate Kid. Yes I know, of all the films someone could remake, why pick that? Probably because the martial arts films have been doing quiet well for over a decade now and you can't even have an action film without some in it. Just look at any Transporter movie. Or virtually any film in recent years by Jason Statham.

But before you decide to commit hari kari, you may want to consider the silver lining. It both indicates this could be an idea that is worth watching, or confirms the doom of all movies for the next decade.


This film might star Jackie Chan, and Will Smith's son Jaden.

There is no need to describe Jackie Chan. But I will anyway. He is the biggest martial arts action film actor in the world. He is probably only second to Bruce Lee in popularity, even throughout America. And at a crisp age of 50-something he is still someone a bar full of people would never want to piss off. The man is an icon, and considering he does his own stunts comparing him to any other action star makes them look like a wuss.


As for Jaden Smith, he has his fathers genes. He was the best, and probably the only good thing, in the recent remake The Day The Earth Stood Still (with a miserable performance by Keanu Reeves). In that movie, correction extended pro-ecology infomercial, he was the one character that was believable, consistent and interesting. And if we consider his work with his dad in The Pursuit of Happiness, much the same can be said of his work there.

In fact, I think that it is highly likely we will see a lot more of Jaden. As long as he stops working in remakes. Even if by some chance this one works out.

And yes you can read it, I have a doubt. It's not Chan nor Smith that concerns me. I doubt Hollywood. I can't see them committing to the story.

Without question some Hollywood exec is going to want to play up the laughs in the film since Chan can do comedy. And they will want a needless and plot-killing action sequence just to show off what Chan can do. And then we will likely get an overly sappy cuteness for Smith. So it will end up being all the extremes of the original film, thrown together without regard for the original storyline - which will likely be thrown out completely if the history if remakes in the last decade is any example.

Could this idea work? Yes. The talent is definitely there. But the greed of Hollywood studios and the laziness of scriptwriters weighs heavy in my mind. Either way this is something that deserves more attention as details get fleshed out.

Bill O'Reilly discusses Oscar Grant...sort of

Some might be wondering about how awful (or moderately bad) the film Notorious is, and with recent news that Lil Kim is upset about her portrayal I'm sure more will go an find out. Because nothing drives money home like a bit of controversy.

But on Friday there was little controversy in what Bill O'Reilly had to say about the Oscar Grant murder. In fact he said little about it at all.

Bill O'Reilly was the first national news commentator to speak about this murder to my knowledge. This was an opportunity to convey the outrage that has occurred. To make a plea for justice, and for it to be enacted swiftly. Instead we got more of the national media ignorance. he spoke about the riots this murder has sparked.

A Night to End Violence Against Women in Darfur

Recently I have been in contact with Cynthia Basinet, an accomplished woman of multiple talents. She might be best known to some for her 2005 cover of Eartha Kitt's Santa Baby (which was included in my tribute to Kitt after her death). But she is also a Nobel Peace Prize nominee and an advocate for women and Africa.

Cynthia Basinet sent me something that I am happy to pass on to you my readers. On February 11, 2009 there will be a nation-wide effort on behalf of the women in Darfur, as well as to end the over 5 year long suffering in that region of Africa. There has been an on-going genocide there, as acknowledged by Congress and the U.N., that too little is being done about. I have spoken about Darfur several times. And I look forward to the day I no long have a need to do so because it has ended.

But until that day I encourage all my readers to be involved, with donations and/or contacting your Congressional representatives to pass the laws we have sitting in Congress doing nothing. And part of that involvement can include A Night to End Violence Against Women in Darfur.

In communities across the nation there will be a viewing of Violence Against Women and the Darfur Genocide, a movie discussing the horrific violence that is happening right now. A terrible blight on humanity that the American news media seems to feel secure in ignoring. And afterwards there will be an online discussion with communities just like yours being involved.

You can make a difference in Darfur. You can help the hundreds of thousands that are suffering even as you read this now. I recommend that all my readers find out more about this event, learn about Darfur, and if you can host this event in your community. Because America is a great country, once we get our asses in motion. And the news media is sitting on its ass when it comes to Darfur.

But we don't need to wait for CNN, MSNBC, FOX, or any other news to have a slow day to cover this. We can act today, and on February 11th, and every other day we choose.

To find our more about how you can help the women, children, and families in Darfur on February 11th just click on this link.

We can make a difference here. And we should make a difference. I hope that you agree.

Oprah does it again

In all the rush and bustle of news about this celebrity doing something stupid, or the media failing in it's mission to the public there are stories that we all miss or fail to recognize. For me that means that there is an item that I intended to write about that I completely about.

In this case it is Oprah Winfrey and what she did at the end of the year. It was a Christmas gift, the likes of which provides more than just money or an material item it provides the chance at a better life. And it's something I think deserves more attention.

In Atlanta, the one of the poorest neighborhoods is a private school run by Ron Clark. This is the teacher who wrote the New York Times best selling book The Essential 55, and opened the Ron Clark Academy. That Academy provides students with in-class computers, a dark rook, a 2-story library, a recording studio, a dance studio and digital recorders. In effect it stimulates the students minds and imaginations with the technology of today and the opportunity to use it. But that isn't cheap.

The school, which was created in part from the proceeds of Ron Clark's book sales, requires a tuition from the parents of those children accepted. The portion of tuition parents pay is miniscule compared to the actual cost, and from the 350 applications for the 50 seats available in the school low and middle income families find it worth the money. That means there is a huge deficit.

Clark makes up that difference in raising donations for the school. It's a daily job that goes on every night after the school day has finished. And the commitment he has shown has helped to bring in funds. And Oprah stepped up as well. She provided the school with a donation that will allow 26 children to attend the school for 1 year. That's $365,000. More importantly that is a child learning.

There is no question that Oprah is dedicated to many causes, chief among them is education. Besides the money for the Ron Clark Academy, she has donated $4 million on education alone last year. That alone equals or exceeds tons of entertainers, celebrities, politicians, and businesses. And as such I think it deserves to be mentioned. Even if I am getting to it after the fact, by my own fault.

I wish more celebrities could be like this. I certainly wish there were more teachers like Ron Clark. Because if we don't invest in our children then we fail to invest in our future.

Michael Jackson is coming to Bel-Air - hide the children

There seems to be no end to the concerns for those in California. First there is the Oscar Grant shooting (murder). Now there is something perhaps equally as disturbing, Michael Jackson.

Jackson has returned to California, moving into Bel-Air. I'd advise any parents out there with young boys to be very afraid. Not that anything has been proven against Jackson. It's just that he is creepy as hell and there is a mountain of questions about him and what he does behind closed doors.

Still you have to wonder how he can afford this new home. Considering he lost Neverland Ranch - much to the dismay of R Kelly I would imagine - got sued by is Arabic friends, had to leave the Middle East rather suddenly, and will be auctioning off many of his possessions in the spring I am bewildered at where his money comes from.

The even greater question at hand though is where are his kids? Has anyone seen them, or even heard about them in years now? Given that Jako is super famous even among celebrities (or is it infamous now) and the fact that he is a bit of a wacko when it comes to his privacy, I am concerned. And if any aspect of the thought of Michael Jackson being a pedophile is correct, people really need to ask this.

Even is his new record album he is planning is better than every song ever made, that does not mean the public should not be concerned about his kids. And why has no one in the media asked how they are doing? Or the paparazzi not taken a picture of them? Come on, the paparazzi invade every celebrities privacy, snapping shot in the most inappropriate place without concern for family, children or occasion.

Yet they are showing civility to Jackson's rarely mentioned children?

And if I were a parent in Bel Air, and Jackson brought his kids over to play with my own kids, I'd have video cameras rolling every second that he was there. Just to be safe I wouldn't leave any of the kids alone. Because by now, Jackson's kids are at least as socially messed up as he is. And that's imagining the best scenario.

It makes me shake my head.

Iron Man 2: update

OK, while I am still highly upset over the Oscar Grant murder the fact is that there are other things I can write about. Perhaps I can let my blood pressure come down for a bit. But have no doubt that I will still be following this case.

But while I was away some news came out on a movie I am looking forward to. Iron Man 2.

We already know that Terrence Howard has been replace in the sequel, which is a shame as I thought he would make a wonderful War Machine, and he is an accomplished actor. He is to be replace by Don Cheadle. So in the least it can be said that the role has not gone to a slouch or less talented actor.

But the latest news is on the villain front. No matter how wonderful a comic book character is, no matter how good or powerful the hero, they are nothing without a proper villain. In the first movie the real villain was the best source of all, Tony Stark himself. Obidia Stane was just a second-tier villain that we could watch get pummeled (or do the pummeling).

In this next movie I expect to see more of Tony Stark's issues with his womanizing and drinking. This character is truly realistic and flawed like few others. He has problems as big as, and more dangerous than, any of the enemies he faces. Robert Downey Jr understands that kind of life and thus he should continue to be perfect in this role.

Still this film is action based, so the internal conflict has to be externalized. And who better to visualize pain and suffering than Mickey Rourke. He is to play Whiplash, an old enemy in the comic books. This villain uses technology enhanced coils as whips that can break steel girders. It's not the best villain for Iron Man, but since the Titanium Man theme was sort of hit upon in the first film I understand why they don't want to go back to that right away. But this give Rourke a chance to get physical with Downey, via their characters. It will be a real mano a mano type of fight.

Backing up Whiplash, and no doubt supplying his equipment, will be Sam Rockwell as Justin Hammer. Hammer is another multi-billionaire that competes with Stark, and happens to hate him for being smarter. That envy, and slightly smaller checkbook is the fuel of various schemes by Hammer to embezzell, steal, kill, embarrass, and otherwise harm the reputation and life of Tony Start and Iron Man.

Rockwell is an interesting actor. He looks rather snake-oil ish. I see him and think of a black hat. And many of his roles reflect that. One of his better performances was his con artist in Matchstick Men opposite Nicolas Cage. But in this film Rockwell will be up front, and a crucial lynchpin for the credibility of Whiplash - I believe. I'm not sure if he can pull off such a role. Especially when confronted with the caliber of acting that Downey and Rourke bring.

I still think the film will do well in theaters. I'm a little less confident now that the acting in the second film will be as good. There is no question that the CGI and visuals will be extraordinary.

Lest I hear otherwise this still will be a great film for 2010. And it will be a busy year for Rourke who is also in The Expendables that year.

Open letter to Sharpton, Jackson, NAACP, Sen. Boxer, Sen. Feinstein, and the media

This letter is to those mentioned in my post What can you do to prevent another Grant, Bell, Diallo, or other police murder?

This letter will be sent to all those named in that post. If you know of other organizations that should receive this, let me know. If you wish to copy and modify this letter for your own use to these individuals, please do.

To whom it may concern,

I am Michael Vass, President of M V Consulting, Inc. and author of Black Entertainment USA. Recently I became aware of the death of Oscar Grant at a BART station in California. This death came at the hands of police - while he laid face down on the ground defenseless, possibly handcuffed, with an officer holding him in place as he was shot in the back - and was video taped and witnesses by a large group of individuals on New Year's Day of 2009.

This news story has been seemingly dismissed by the major news media. I was lucky to notice a 30 second news video by ABC News, that I have not seen since, on January 5th. The national news media has not covered this story beyond that to my knowledge.

The lack of coverage has angered me greatly. I wrote about this tragic event on my blog, and several others that I write for. And I am constantly being made aware that my blog posts of this news event is the first that many people are hearing of this event. Yet in watching the national news coverage I have seen no end to the coverage of the Caylee Anthony case for a almost a year now, discussion on the death of Heath Ledger for a year, and other stories of similar nature. In fact I believe it is easier to know the clothes that Beyonce wore yesterday, how Jennifer Aniston feels about Angelina Jolie, and the new address of Michael Jackson than details in this case.

This is an outrage. The news media has failed America, and the Black community. It is their responsibility to make all law enforcement responsible to the public and to make the public aware of such events. Their job is to represent us when it is not possible for us to be aware of facts across the nation and the world. Their job is to help shed light on events that violate our rights and prevent the abuse of the system. That is not happening.

It is a fact that some news media have made factual errors in their reporting of the case. One such instance is the fact that reports say that only 2 videos of the incident exist. I found in 15 seconds multiple videos of the event from several angles and of lengths from 1 minute to nearly 5 minutes. I have provided some of that additional video on my site. Another fact was the initial statement of the BART police stating that video from the station itself was unavailable, which turns out to be erroneous.

Already we can see that facts are being occluded. Add to this that the internal investigation by police has run into a roadblock. Officer Johannes Mehserle, who fatally shot Oscar Grant while he laid face down, possibly handcuffed, with at least one officer holding him down with a knee on his neck, in his back, resigned. As such I believe that the internal investigation cannot go forward as Mehserle is no longer a police officer. Thus the Oakland D.A. must be motivated to investigate and bring up charges for any justice to go forward.

At the same time Police Chief Gary Gee and others have begun to postulate excuses on how or why this event happened. The most popular excuse is that Johannes Mehserle meant to reach for his taser. A taser is not the same weight, shape, or trigger as a police issue 9mm gun. The time, as seen in several video angles of the event, he took to draw and fire reveal he had ample time to recognize and visually sight the gun in his hands. And beyond all that, there was no imminent life-threatening need to draw any weapon. And that is proven by the 5 or 6 other officers on the scene never drawing or motioning towards any of their weapons at any point in this event.

And I believe that this is a pattern that needs to end. We have seen that more often each year tragic events like this are happening across the nation. Black men killed in a hail of dozens of bullets, beaten by hordes of police officers, abused in police stations, and on and on. More often than not, virtually in each case, the officer responsible never served a day in jail, rarely was fined or disciplined in any manner.

I believe these are connected. If we say nothing, do nothing, then we say to all police officers across the nation that the - in my opinion - outright cold-blooded murder of African Americans is socially acceptable and will not be punished.

Thus I ask you to provide your political and media strength to this issue. The nation needs to be aware of what happened. This should never have happened. This should not go unpunished.

I look forward to your support and the media attention you can bring to this tragic event.

Sincerely,

Michael Vass
President - M V Consulting, Inc.
718-344-6921
info@vassconsult.com

What can you do to prevent another Grant, Bell, Diallo, or other police murder?

The question before us is what can we do to prevent another senseless murder from occurring? How can we stop the police departments from across the nation from seeing Blacks as target practice?





In case you missed some of those numbers I will provide them again.

BART Director Carol Ward Allen: 510-464-6095 or BoardofDirectors@bart.gov

Police Chief Gary Gee: 510-464-7022 or toll free 877-679-7000 or ggee@bart.gov

Senator Feinstein: 202-224-3841 or http://feinstein.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=ContactUS.EmailMe

Senator Boxer: 202-224-3553 or http://boxer.senate.gov/contact/email/policy.cfm

Governor Schwarzenegger: 916-445-2841or http://gov.ca.gov/interact#contact

Reverend Al Sharpton (via his National Action network): 212-690-3070 or toll free 877-NAN-HOJ1 or crisis@nationalactionnetwork.net

Rev. Jesse L. Jackson: editor@rainbowpush.org or 773-373-3366

Minister Louis Farrakhan: http://www.noi.org/letters/

Michael Baisden: 877-6BADBOY

NAACP: (877) NAACP-98

100 Black Men: 404-688-5100 or info@100bmoa.org

Again I want to thank Racewire.org for some of their ideas on this subject that inspired my video. We can stop this pattern, this institutionalized policy of murders without reprisal. We can change America. And all we need to do is speak up.

If you know of another useful organization please let us know.

**I've never asked this before, but please DIGG this post so others will also see what they can do to help prevent another cold-blooded murder from happening. Let's never hear of a father,son, mother, wife, daughter, or person being killed in such a manner again.

Oscar Grant - the deafening silence

Right now I can say that I can't recall a post subject that has drawn more attention on my blog than right now on the subject of Oscar Grant. Not that the major news media has been focused on this issue until there were riots in the streets of California. Yes Oakland is enraged, as well they should be.

I have watched more people comment on my own expression of rage on my youtube commentary than anything but the election of President Obama, based on the same amount of time. I have recorded more visits and views, at each and every blog that I own or write for that covered this issue.

But I am noticing a few things.

One of the first things I noticed is how quiet a large section of the internet has become. I do not believe that a single White visitor to any blog I write to or own has said a word. Normally I have commentary from around the world, people of every race, creed, ethnicity all comment on various things I say. When it comes to race relations in America I normally get feedback from various Americans across the nation. Some agree with my views, others do not. And inevitably I have some that just want to be racist.

But I'm hearing nothing right now from anyone but African Americans - apparently. The people that defend cops when I correctly point out their policies on brutality on African Americans and other minorities are quiet. People that think my comments about race in America are biased or too extreme are silent. In fact, even the racists that find fault with any comment that reveals America is racially divided have nothing to say.

Considering the number of visitors I have every month, and the huge numbers viewing my posts on Oscar Grant, I find this odd. On 5 different blogs (including Black and White Blog which is focused on race relations issues), one of which (1800blogger.com) dwarfs my own blogs in terms of visitors each month, there is nothing being said. WHY?

Is it because the only concern of the major news media is the riots that have disrupted businesses and thus they are covering the news? Is it that the videos of the event cannot be edited in any manner that brings question of the murderous guilt of officer Johannes Mehserle? Rather ex-officer as he has resigned in an attempt to pre-empt further investigation and avoid punishment as well as embarrassment on the Oakland police.

Why are people rioting in Oakland, why is the national African American community outraged? Because this murder has been brushed aside by the media and excused by the police - like the beating of Rodney King, and the murder of Sean Bell and so on. African Americans are tired of being targets, of being ignored in the news (except when a negative statement can be made), of receiving a second-class justice while being depicted as objects of fear, violence and hate.

A White man lost in the woods gets national attention. White children that are missing gets national attention. A White man stealing millions in dollars gets national attention. White stars die and they get year-long attention. Each of these have been news items in recent weeks, and each received days of news coverage and posts on these stories have gotten dozens of responses across the blogosphere. But when the victim of a crime is Black and the criminal is a White police officer it all goes quiet.

Well I am glad I have helped raise attention on this issue. And more importantly on the fact that this is not an isolated event. That this is a policy found across the nation. That the odds are overwhelmingly in favor of this ex-cop walking away from this cold-blooded murder without spending a day in jail.

The news media have acted like cowards. They hid this story from the nation, for reasons I cannot name. They have failed to draw attention to the very thing they exist to do - make the public aware, keep all levels of law and enforcement accountable to all the people, and bring justice to those who have been wronged.

If this was kept out of the major media because of ratings, then they are worse than cowards. Fear of losing viewers because it makes cruel, vile, White police officers look bad is their job. Yet they do this job poorly.

How much attention did the assault of 15 cops on 3 Philadelphia Black men receive? Do you know what has happened to the case since that video was released? Do you know what happened to the 5 officers that brutally shot some 51 times Sean Bell and his companions in their car in New York City? How about the 6 Whites arrested and on trial for the rape, torture, and kidnapping of Megan Williams? And I can go on and on.

But I bet you know what happened to OJ Simpson, every day. Or the arrest of Wesley Snipes (and far less so his victories and overly-harsh punishment on minor non-federal charges). Or the arrest and trial of Bobby Cutts.

So I am not surprised that so many people that want to argue with me about the racial bias in movies and television (in front of and behind the camera), commercials, news, at airports, and so many other places and events in America are absolutely wordless in this case. Because there is no question of guilt. There is no twist or doubt or anything but guilt. And it was racial if not racist in its motivation. And again there is no question there.

All White people are not like ex-officer Johannes Mehserle. The shocked reaction of some of the officers on the scene tells me that not all officers in Oakland are like him. But when the news media wants to avoid the entire subject because it makes them uncomfortable, or whatever is their reason, it makes it hard not to feel that they all are like Mehserle.

Obviously I am still angry. And I have every right to be. The White part of this nation was insanely upset about OJ wining in L.A. Now imagine if African Americans were to be equally as insanely upset over the multiple, repeated, unjustified, unpunished violence and murders enacted by police officers against us. If you can imagine what that would bring, the only question I can ask is why does the news media seem to want to provoke such a reaction by failing to do its job?

Oscar Grant's family deserves tens of millions for his wrongful death. Ex-officer Johannes Mehserle needs to be in jail, convicted and put to death. And the news media is obligated to cover both of these things, for days, at every step, to ensure such an outcome and preserve some semblance of justice in America. The silence as seen so far is not enough. Action and active participation needs to occur.

Just like it would if Grant had been White.

The Expendables - 2010 movie

Now here is a concept that I am looking forward to seeing trailers for. A movie with action as its complete drive. Plot be damned, this will be fast-paced and sure to provide a pounding.

The Expendables is a film featuring Sylvester Stallone, Mickey Rourke, and Dolph Lungdren. With just that part of the cast you might think this is a return to the action movies of the 1980's. Which is not an entirely bad thing. But hold on.

Add to this group of oldies but goodies Jet Li and Jason Statham. And for a bit of dramatic flair there is also Ben Kingsley and Forest Whitaker. Now that is a cast of standing. You can stage a film about almost anything with this group of actors.

This film will focus on mercenaries that are hired to take down a South American dictator (might he have a last name sounding like Chavez?). It doesn't need to get much deeper than that.

Likely good guys are Statham, Li, and Stallone. Probable bad guys are Rourke, Lungdren, and Kingsley.

While I don't expect this to be an Oscar winner, I do expect massive amounts of explosions and kicking ass. There will be big guns a plenty. So if you enjoy art house films this will not be for you most likely.

One thing I would really enjoy in the film would be a fight scene between Li and Statham. I am sure the film has to have that, if only for a few minutes. That would be a great action sequence. That will make the film for sure.

There is no video yet, but be confident that once there is I will be getting it out to you all. Expect this in 2010.

Quantum Quest - its NASA in 3D. Doesn't that sound fun?

In more mundane news there is something that sounds a bit special. Can you imagine a movie that combines Star Trek, Star Wars, samurai, a moon walk, and Grey's Anatomy?

A daunting task for anyone on their best day. but that is exactly what will be available when Quantum Quest opens. The movie is a 3-D animated film, and it will feature the voices of some of the best known sci-fi and television actors ever. The cast includes:

William Shatner
James Earl Jones
Mark Hamill
Neil Armstrong
Samuel L. Jackson
Chris Pine
Hayden Christensen
Susan Oh
Jason Alexamnder

I left out the fact that a touch of Seinfeld will be in there too.

With such a cast I am sure the producers are thinking major money. I'm not as sure such a wide mix of actors will fix together. The script would have to be very exceptional. Given the nature of writing in Hollywood these days I would take 4:3 odds that it won't work as well as it sounds. But it could be interesting as 6 of the 8 actors, and Neil Armstrong, are notable and interesting.

The description of the film explains that the concept of the film comes from NASA. While there is no question of the minds at NASA, their ability to create a film is more uncertain. The film intends

"The 3D, large format CGI-animated educational film interweaves actual space imagery captured from ongoing NASA missions with an adventure, set in an imaginary universe and intended to create a family-friendly film experience that entertains while educating viewers"

Doesn't that sound like a must see? Not to worry though. This 45 minute film is intended for young kids learning about science in school. It's 45 minutes long. My guess is that the producers hope to capture the minds of kids by the names of the actors and what they have done in the past. And for DVD sales there is the same thought as well as a few names geared more to parents.

Best bet is to wait until the eventual DVD hits the bargain bin for $3 and let the kids watch it as they prepare for a science test.

Oscar Grant murder - commentary by Michael Vass

I have listened to the news today and so far I have yet to hear of news about Oscar Grant. I have heard about Adam Herrman who has been missing for 10 years, the UN discussing Israel and Gaza, and Obama having lunch with all the living former Presidents. I have heard that the best way to lose weight is to eat less, and that Senator Harry Reid is backing down and accepting the appointment of Roland Burris. I even saw a bit on the fidelity of Brad Pitt.

I still have yet to hear about Oscar Grant. Which has my anger boiling, and reminds me why I made a video commentary last night. I went through a couple of versions before my emotions calmed a bit.

The news media is failing America. In not discussing the why of what happened we are failed. In not discussing the cold-blooded act itself we are failed. And I for one will not stand for it.

Here are my thoughts.

Oscar Grant murdered by Oakland police in cold blood

Can we even start a year without something racial happening in this country? I have already spoken about my thoughts concerning the Muslim family that were subjected to fear and discrimination while trying to take a flight. But this is something far worse.

On New Years eve, hours into the start of the New Year, police shot a young Black man. In the back. While he was laying face down. And I bet most in the nation are only learning about this today, a week into the month just like me.

Now some may have seen the highly edited video of this murder, as shown by ABC News and a local television station. I warn my viewers this is disturbing, real, and murder in my opinion.



Here are details that are currently known and visible from the video. Police were called to the Oakland train station reportedly because of a fight. Once there we see that initially 2 officers had control over 3 or 4 men, who were co-operating. The crowd observing the event made the officers nervous, as another 5 officers arrived on the scene. Oscar Grant, 22 years old, is seen standing at one point though it is not clear why. The officers have him kneel and then place him face first on the ground. Oscar seems to be handcuffed this entire time. He moves on the ground and one of 3 officers restraining him places his knee on Grant's neck. As this happens another officer, a 2 year veteran, casually stands back, reaches for his gun and fires into the back of Grant killing him.

Another view of this entire incident can be seen below.

This is raw footage. The key moments are from 1:56 - 2:57 . It is clear at 2:37 that 32 officers, joined by a third, are nervous but controlling a crowd that are busy observing the event and video taping it. At 2:52 you can see the officer draw his gun, with 2 officers holding Grant down, 3 officers holding the crowd (4 people apparently and an unknown amount in the subway car) and I believe one other officer in the background.

While the situation was not pleasant, none of the men on the ground were endangering the officers. The crowd was at a distance. and 3 men were close getting video. One of those men was taken down by one officer, but the rest of them were unencumbered or endanger. I say that both from their stance and the video footage of the crowd.



There is no question of the guilt of the officer that fired. There was no threat. Not from Grant, the other men on the ground, nor the crowd. There were 6 or 7 officers at the location that can be observed, with an unknown amount in transit. While quite vocal, the crowd maintained a wide distance, with the exception of 3 men that were under constant observation by no less than 2 officers.

This was a murder.

A murder committed by a police officer, on an unarmed, defenseless Black man. Again. And some dare tell me that I have no reason to fear the police. That stories about the consistent, coast to coast murder of Black men by police is a lie. That this is just a coincidence.

If all that were true, then why has this taken 6 days to be released to the nation? Why has no major media network covered this story nationally? Why is ABC News providing a highly edited video that places doubt on the cause of this event, when I found several videos of this event on youtube in 10 seconds that are clear on what happened.

The innocent can stand in the light of day, and were this murder justified in any way the police would have made it national an hour after it happened. But it is not. And only now, with the family suing for $25 million is it catching attention.

And I think the family deserves far more. A father of a 4 year old daughter has been killed in cold blood for no justifiable reason. A family has lost a son. There is no proper price, but obviously in California the $50 million paid to Rodney King was not enough to make a point.

How can anyone look at this video, and recall the deaths of Sean Bell, the beating of Rodney King, Amidou Diallo, and so many other events - each year - and not wonder if Black men have bull's eye's painted on their backs that police see.

I am angry. At the news media for hiding this for days. At the police department in Oakland for pretending that there could be any justification for this act. They are claiming the officer might have been trying to draw his taser. If so, once his hand was on the gun didn't he know the difference. Once he drew the gun and saw it, why didn't he replace it. And why did he fire when 2 officers had control of Grant on the ground?

And I am insanely angry at the officer. he is a murderer. He needs to be in jail right now. Because I guarantee if I killed a White man who was on the ground, defenseless, and a father of a child there would be national outrage. I'd be in a jail immediately. And the only question would be if I would get electrocuted. And all that is without a video tape.

Justice in America is not colorblind. Like the news media and police across the nation it seems to be color bound.

BBC makes questionable choice for Doctor Who

Matt Smith is the new Doctor. Who is he? Good question. He was nowhere on my radar screens, nor those of any Brit I have read about.

For those not familiar I'm talking about the 11th actor to play the titular role of Dr. Who. The show has been on the BBC for 45 years, and has been on American television (and BBC America) for decades. It is probably as popular and well-followed as Star Trek and/or Star Wars. It is definitely one of the top programs in the world, and likely the longest running non-news program (not including soap operas) ever.

Currently David Tennant is the Doctor. His appearance was debated long and hard, but he quickly won over fans with his quirky, witty, fast-paced portrayal of the Doctor. His version is brash, playful, and perhaps one of the most violent of all the Doctors. When he stated he was leaving the program after 3 years - which is a shame really - there was no end to guesses of who might replace him.

I too joined in on that game with a list of possibles, plus the insane postulation of a couple of Americans. And since that post I have had several friends debate the likelyhood of the first female Doctor (never going to happen), the first Black Doctor, and my insanity about an American Doctor. Suffice to say the debate over this role has been vigorous, especially in England.

But now the answer is before us. I present to you the new Doctor as of 2010



They have seriously lost their minds at the BBC.

Yes the Doctor is a geek. He is the ultimate nerd, given. But he is also cool and powerful and a hundred other quirks. He has been relatively plain (or ugly depending on your preferences), tall, short, old, young, and now he seems prepubescent.

Honestly, with no insult intended, Matt Smith looks ugly, way too young, and completely immature. I cannot for the life of me envision what makes him seem like the Doctor to anyone at the BBC. And I must admit that I say this without ever having heard his voice, nor seen his acting. Such is the difficulty of being in America.

Still I am a fan. And I am sure I will still watch the program. But with a great big cringe. Hopefully they will at least give the Doctor a companion of ample assets and beauty suffice to distract viewers from his visage. But that is more an American trick than British. [Seriously, like Baywatch had any substance beyond the cloth for the swimsuits]

From what I gathered there are a few things we can hope to expect from a Matt Smith Doctor. An new hairstyle - bald is preferred to what he has in the photo. Far less wit, delivered at far slower speeds.

Matt Smith is no Tom Baker, and decisively no David Tennant. He is young and these days on either side of the pond that is worth a lot to television and movie executives. Sadly that does not often equate to zealous or even moderate approval of the viewing audience.

But I am a fan of the Doctor. I have been for decades. I will watch and cringe, and hope to be amazed - or just not overly disappointed. I will hope for a buxom, brilliant, assistant. I will read the tea leaves for clues to the major villian. I will be a fan. Just that much more reluctantly, and far more willing to see the re-run than the first run.

[Patterson Joseph would still have been the best choice I think.]

America likes quality not color in movies

I just want to back track for a moment. At the end of 2008 there was a top of 2008 list that I think most have never heard of nor are they aware of who made the list. While this list is mostly for acting entertainers, movie studios and movie theaters it bears worth mentioning.

The Quigley Poll has been around for 76 years. It surveys movie theater owners and asks them whom they feel was responsible for the most revenue generation in the year. This is important to Hollywood as it confirms or changes how much an actor/actress is worth, and who they want to star in additional films. And it also influences what films will be made, indirectly. If an actor/actress who is know for dramas brings in enough to top the list for drama films, Hollywood with their tunnel-vision will make more of those types of films especially with that entertainer.

In 2008 Will Smith topped the list. Now that is very significant. He is only the second Black actor to top the list in 76 years. The last time an African American topped the list was 40 years ago, and he was Sidney Poitier. Just imagine that.

That means that all the success of Denzel Washington was not enough. Samuel Jackson didn't count. Even Jamie Foxx was not seen as successful enough. Not to mention Don Cheadle and many others over the decades.

This also means that Will Smith (the first and only actor to have 8 films consecutively gross over $100 million) has attained a level of acceptance in America not seen in 2 generations. In the late 60's America was forced to open it's eyes to all the people in the nation. Leading that charge on screen was Poitier. He opened doors that had been closed for the better part of a century. Then America looked away again.

This is important because Hollywood uses the excuse

"White people won't go to see a film or television show starring Black people. They can't connect with them."

That feeble attempt at justification enables television to mirror the 1950's mentality, and denies opportunity in front of and behind the cameras to thousands of qualified and non-White Americans every year.

But Will Smith has given just cause for that excuse to die. He again proved that America wants to be given quality, not just repetition, in their entertainment. It is the American spirit of competition that says the best demand equal time regardless of race or any other superficial factor.

I love quality Black cinema. I hate Soul Plane and other such trash. And I enjoy equally as much quality work of any capable actor/actress in multiple genres. But I cannot say that I will begrudge Hollywood if they finally join the rest of most of America in the 21st century. Will Smith is just one example, as is Spike Lee, Bill Duke, Denzel Washington, Don Cheadle, Forest Whitaker and on and on.

Americans go to see the top actors/actresses in the top films. It's time that Hollywood look around and see who really is in the A-list, regardless of color.

Jett Travolta, son of John Travolta, passes

I just finished discussing the upcoming movie Taking of Pelham 123 that will star Denzel Washington and John Travolta when I saw the news. I am sad to hear of the death of John Travolta's young son Jett.

No parent ever wishes to outlive their child, and no family ever should have to deal with such pain. Travolta has had to deal with many sudden and painful losses in his life. I feel extremely badly to hear of this additional loss.

I give my condolences to the entire Travolta family. There are no words to convey such a loss. I only hope that the thought that their child no longer has to face the difficulties and travails of this world, and that Jett is now in a place far better, gives some comfort.

Movie Preview: Pelham 123 and G-Force

The year starts off with an interesting take of a couple of films. On one hand we have a film that is a remake, and on the other we have a film that sounds like it's a conversion of a classic cartoon. Let's start with the remake.

The Taking of Pelham 123 is a film from 1974. It was well acted, with the leads being Robert Shaw (some may recall him best from The Sting) and Walter Matthau (maybe best know for the film version of the Odd Couple). It dealt with a subject that was foreign in America in 1974, but today is a constant thought in the backs of minds of New York City subway riders everyday. It's not often that a film could hit a subject so well decades before it becomes a national focal point.

Suffice to say that they story is about a hijacking, of a NYC subway car. Sounds odd? Perhaps too incredible? Not really, and even more of a question in these post 9/11 days.



The question you face in the film are:

Can they really do this
Can they get away with it
What can the various departments of New York City do about this

These questions were real in 1974, and today are even more pressing. So the task for Denzel Washington and John Travolta are daunting. They need to make this feel real, scary even, yet not so much as to cause people to give up on the subway. They both have to live up to the performances of the original film, while new scenes of explosions and car chases inevitably will be thrown in for modern audiences. Maybe even overcome some CGI too.

I believe that Travolta will be the bad guy. The character is kind of a mix of roles he took in Broken Arrow and Face/Off. For Denzel as the good guy we will probably get a mix of his characters from Training Day, Inside Man, and perhaps a bit of Virtuosity.

Done on location, I think this remake only has to fear one thing. The tendency of Hollywood writers and studios to revision a great film and lose the meaning and intensity of the original.

On the other spectrum of the films we will see later in the year is G-Force. This is not a conversion of the Japanese cartoon Battle of the Planets. If it were I definitely would want to see that. Instead we have a CGI film from Disney. Prepare to get more depressed.



Yes this is another cute animals film. Guinea Pigs (a mole and a fly) are our heroes in this film. It seems that an animated hamster, cat, dog, and pigeons demanded a one-up by Disney. While these kinds of films can be cute, occasionally, Disney feels the need to grab the kids with cute animals as opposed to a storyline.

I for one am getting bored with all these films with cute animals that can talk and do stunts. I have never really been a big fan of CGI. And I think this is just a cheap tactic as opposed to really original films that might be done. Then again, the film is not targeting single male intellectuals in their 40's.

I'm sure it will bring in a slew of kids, make tons of money, and guarantee a sequel - with even more furry critters than the first. And I don't doubt that this will be a decent choice for parents that don't want their kids exposed to the violence of Terminator:Salvation or the glorification of drugs, violence, and degrading of women this is Notorious. But for the adults out there, don't expect this film to be the Incredibles. You will likely be the least entertained in your family.