What's this girl doing in a box? Hey, I'm not here to judge - I love boxes. Box forts are my.. forte, mah hahaha. Ahem. Now whaaaat were we talking about.. oh, yes. The girl in the box. Meet Ashley, who is currently in the lead for our Superfan contest, wherein two finalists will appear on MOD and duke it out for the chance to meet their heroes. Ashley is a Hedley Superfan, and she's currently leading with 38% of the vote! Wows.
So what I'm here to tell you is that the voting ends on Monday, so if you've got a fave, show your support! Plus: just for voting, you could win a portable DVD player, so that's pretteh cool. Czech it!
Last week I was reading Kat's Earworms blog of Van She and decided to check out their MySpace. As I was on there an ad had caught my eye and it was for The Ropes.
This duo from New York pumps out some heavy tunes for a two piece band. After listening to their first track Water And Headphones I was hooked. Their sound, Sharon Shy's voice and their lyrics are great. After my first listen of their 6 tracks on their MySpace, my thought was that they were similar to The Ting Tings. But after listening to them for the past week and getting past the obvious similarities between them and The Ting Tings, the differences started to become apparent. The Ropes have a much heavier sound, less dancy tracks and rough lyrics compared to The Tings Tings. Pay attention to the lyrics and you'll see that they are pretty rough!
Have a listen and let me know what you think. And while you're at it check out our First Spin Singles player which is jam packed with great tunes, including The Ropes' Water And Headphones.
The day is coming to a close here - I'm feeling tired, cranky and I just want to go home - but suddenly I'm excited. Why, you ask? Because this little nugget of info has arrived in my inbox:
Acclaimed Canadian quintet, Stars, have announced details for their much anticipated North American tour alongside the release of a new EP which features all new songs, written and recorded this past summer at Studio Plateau in the bands hometown of Montreal, Quebec.
Stars introduce
Sad Robots on September 1, 2008 exclusively through www.sadrobots.ca. A free and all new live version of the track "Going, Going, Gone", a fan favorite from the band's first LP, Nightsongs, will also be available exclusively from the website via MP3 beginning that date.
Still in the throes of their theatre-as-life aesthetic and continuing to explore the art of a guarded romance, Stars will unveil the beauty and tragedy of
Sad Robots with an all new live show, draped in the Sad Robots visuals while they perform songs from all four full-lengths, including 2008 Polaris Prize nominated In Our Bedroom After The War. For those lucky enough to secure tickets, a limited edition, physical copy of the Sad Robots EP will be available at each show on the tour.
So check out sadrobots.ca on Sept 1st for the new track and go check them out in concert. But wait - there is no Toronto date?! Ugh - now I'm cranky again. Sad robot, indeed.
Sad Robots (limited edition) track listing:
1. Maintenance Hall, 4am
2. A Thread Cut With A Carving Knife
3. Undertow
4. Going, Going, Gone (live version)
5. 14 Forever
6. Sad Robot
Canadian tour dates:
10/29/08 - Fredericton, NB @ SUB Ballroom/Univ. of NB
10/30/08 - Moncton, NB @ The Manhattan Club
10/31/08 - Charlottetown, PEI @ The Wave/Univ. of PEI
11/1/08 - Halifax, NS @ The Marquee Club
11/3/08 - St. John’s, NF @ Club One
Yeah that's right, I say dude... all the time and to everyone. I have called my mom dude, I have called David Cronenberg dude, and now I have called Debbie Gibson dude. I blame one of my best friends Mike Stewart. I'm not from California nor is he, we are both hardcore Newfoundlanders but we say dude and I'm ok with that. Moving on.
Deborah Gibson is good people. Her Momager Diane is also super cool. The weirdest part of this trip was being in Deb's closet trying on clothes for yoga time, I was literally in her closet surrounded by her clothes, everything from jeans, shirts and dresses to things that go under jeans, shirts and dresses and had to laugh at the fact that I was... IN DEBBIE GIBSONS'S CLOSET.
What she is doing with her camp is really amazing; trying to give young kids the tools necessary to survive in the business. For the most part when a record label finds a young talent, they put them in a bubble and the kids learn nothing and are spit out when the fame is gone. Deb is taking kids early and showing them what it takes to develop their talents and it's really an admirable thing. She isn't making money from this camp, I mean one day if it spreads to a HUGE camp all over the world I'm sure it could make moolah, but right now it's not about the money and it's rare to see something so honest.
Her mom Diane is a very interesting lady and I had some amazing chats with her about the business and other young pop stars that have parents that get almost as much press as their kids. Diane has been behind the scenes of Deb's career for 20 years and there has been no Mr. Spears or Mrs. Lohan type headlines, and equally no young pop star train wreck in the Gibson world. At first I think Diane wasn't sure what to think of me and the crew, she was way guarded and I have to say I was a little scared of her. At one point I come out of the bathroom (the one in DEB's Bedroom which I was TOLD I could use) and Diane kinda gives met the stink eye and I thought I was gonna get ass whooped with her bad ass Long Island accent and high heels, it really wasn't until the last day that she opened up, but it's cool, it's her job to be on guard for her daughte -, I like her a lot!
She also told me that one of Deb's albums that they put out independently cost them about 2 MILLION bucks. Trying to compete against major label money and power cost them a fortune and the album flopped. Something Deb says she'll never do again. (no shit right!)
Other things I learned that you won't see in the show... she has never had work on her body done, except botox once on her forehead and HATED it, and because she's self conscious she wears her bangs in a way to cover up (such a girl). Deb has barely drank alcohol in her entire life but seems to be starting to let loose a little and is not afraid to have a drink now and then... but her real vice is coffee, she loves and needs her coffee fix. And she did NOT get the Ghost Whisperer gig she auditioned for and she doesn't really care... on to the next one. I also have yet to see her playboy issue... really.
Hope you enjoyed the show,
Whitest legs ever... dude.
=matt
Maybe the coolest news we've heard about MTV VMA guests was the revealing of the house band: TRV$DJAM. While I realize this may not mean anything to you (yet), hold your horsies for further explanation, k? TRV$DJAM is the combined force of DJ AM and Travis Barker; AM spins the hip-hop heavy loops and Travis pounds the beats. Sounds good, right? Cause it is.
And check this: the dudes will be collaborating throughout the show with the likes of Katy Perry, T-Pain, Lupe Fiasco and the Ting Tings to perform new and old MTV hits. So what does that mean? Will Katy Perry do Katy Perry, or will Katy Perry do Madonna? Will Lupe do Lupe, or will Lupe do Jay-Z (omg)? And apparently there will be other special guests? Oooooo. Maybe they'll bring out BEL BIV DEVOE? Will Marky Mark reunite with the Funky Bunch?! No? Ok. You're right, I have to let go of 1991.
Anyhoodle, Trav and AM will be playing a few sold out shows before they hit up the VMA stage next weekend, and if you want to hear what they have to offer (Run DMC and Eric B & Rakim in one tasty track, or Johnny Cash in another - say whaaa) you can download their mix tape for free here ... and read a little bit more info about them hereish.
If you love "electronica" (whatever that means, seriously) and sharp beats, I dare you not to fall in love with Ain't No Danbo by Seattle's Truckasauras. It's a slick, super sexy track of layered beats and blips, and I can't stop listening to it. They've got a few retro electro (let's just wait for that term to be portmanteau-ed by the music community) tracks on their page but nothing that comes close to the awesomeness of the Ain't No Danbo remix. Check it! Major earworm.
The guys have an album that came out in June of this year called Tea Parties, Guns, and Valor, which I will be getting my hands on as soon as I click "publish" on this here blog post.
So my name is Quinn, and I am the dude from "The Homecoming" in the first episode of disBAND - which at this point I haven't even seen yet, so I hope it was sweet and you guys enjoyed it. More importantly I hoped we didn't look like douches on TV... and if we did, I am sorry; hopefully one day you will meet us in person and discover how UNdouchey we really are. But until that day comes I guess this blog will suffice!
Filming the show was rocket awesome! Very few bands of OUR level - which is pretty much unknown - get the opportunity to showcase themselves on national TV, with MuchMusic covering the bill no less; so needless to say we were humbled by the entire experience and will never forget it...mostly because Much will play the show about 30 times a day for the next 2 years.
Much had a bunch of crazy surprises up their collective sleeves and all we could do really was hang on for the ride. The photoshoot was basically playing dressup - you know, like, when you were a kid and would sneak into your mom's closet and try on all her dresses and stuff... No? Nobody else did that? Well...that's embarrassing.
Either way it was crazy, and all we could do was roll with the punches. Writing the song in such a short amount of time was NUTZ (with a "Z" to stress the insanity), but we were stoked with the outcome of "Funeralistic" and still feel that we wrote a really honest song that was true to us as individuals and as band... IE even after the judges' decision we wouldn't have changed anything about it - our moms were all very proud of us and our cheeks were thoroughly pinched afterword!
Check out our myspace page, all our personal pages are on there, so add us and let's be internet chums! Other than that, hope you enjoy the show as much as we will! Or won't. Still on the fence I suppose... and keep a heads up for episode #6 when our buddies in The Times have their go at the judges! Look for us in the audience... naked.... security pending!
So yesterday Soja and I were talking about U2 (if you know either of us you'll know that it's probably the first time in the past 15 years that either of us has had a conversation about the band that didn't revolve around Bono's ego) and reminiscing about all the great songs (and videos) the band has had,
For no reason or occasion at all, here's My Personal List Of Favourite U2 Songs, Ever. You can tell by the list that my period of liking U2 was kinda limited to pre-Zooropa days, with the exception of Rattle And Hum, an album that I can't bear to listen to.
What's your list??
Can't Help Falling In Love (watch)
Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me, Kill Me (watch)
Lady With The Spinning Head (watch)
40 (watch)
With Or Without You (watch)
The Fly (watch)
All I Want Is You (watch)
The Sweetest Thing (watch)
Zoo Station (watch)
Salome (watch)
And for funsies, Songs That I'd Gladly Never Hear Again
Lemon
Angel Of Harlem
Desire
Stuck In A Moment
Sunday Bloody Sunday
What qualities should the MTV Video Of The Year possess, hmm? Should it be the most visually stunning? The most ubiquitous song of the time? The most universally-loved? How's about a nice, healthy blend of the three! Let's take a look back at the past 15 years of Video Of The Year winners - do they live up to the title to this day? Were the best choices made? So many questions, so little energy left to answer them.
All photos courtesy of Getty Images
2007 Which Song Most Defined The Year: Rihanna's "Umbrella" or Amy Winehouse's "Rehab"?
Both were equally massive and deserving of their VotY nominations, but "Umbrella" won, and rightfully so - it was the runaway song of the year. We haven't even come close in 2008!
2006 Which Song Most Defined The Year: Panic! At The Disco's "I Write Sins Not Tragedies" or Gnarls Barkley's "Crazy"?
"Crazy" was undoubtedly the song of the year in 2006, but it wasn't even nominated for Video of the Year - P!ATD ran away with the prize! It's cool though, cause the video is tons o' fun and the song's got a great hook. (Other snubs: Kanye's "Gold Digger" and Nelly Furtado's "Promiscuous")
The nominees: Panic! At The Disco - "I Write Sins Not Tragedies" (wiener), Christina Aguilera - "Ain't No Other Man", Madonna - "Hung Up", Red Hot Chili Peppers - "Dani California", Shakira (featuring Wyclef Jean) - "Hips Don't Lie"
2005 Which Song Most Defined The Year: Kelly Clarkson's "Since U Been Gone" or Green Day's "Boulevard of Broken Dreams"?
"Boulevard" (the winner) was a great video and an epic song, but is this how we really remember 2005? Kelly's song defines the year in pop, and wasn't even nominated. But check out this line-up of nominees - now that's a poptacular year!
The nominees: Green Day "Boulevard of Broken Dreams" (wiener), Coldplay - "Speed of Sound", Snoop Dogg (featuring Pharrell) - "Drop It Like It's Hot", Gwen Stefani - "Hollaback Girl", Kanye West - "Jesus Walks"
2004 Which Song Most Defined The Year: Usher's "Yeah" or Outkast's "Hey Ya"?
EITHER - both songs were gargantuan. But the best choice was made: "Hey Ya" changed the face of hip-hop and even your grandpappy was shakin' it like a polaroid picture (I had to, sorry).
The nominees: OutKast "Hey Ya" (wiener), D12 - "My Band", Jay-Z - "99 Problems", Britney Spears - "Toxic", Usher (featuring Ludacris & Lil Jon) - "Yeah!"
2003 Which Song Most Defined The Year: Missy Elliott's "Work It" or Eminem's "Lose Yourself"?
As far as what we may remember most for the year, the edge goes to "Lose Yourself" - but Missy won the category and I do agree with that choice. While the song isn't as mammoth, the video is another stellar clip adding to Missy's amazing catalogue.
The nominees: Missy Elliott "Work It" (wiener), 50 Cent - "In Da Club", Johnny Cash - "Hurt", Eminem - "Lose Yourself", Justin Timberlake - "Cry Me a River"
2002 Which Song Most Defined The Year: Eminem's "Without Me" or Pink's "Get the Party Started"?
Eminem won, and Eminem deserved to win. Pink, on the other hand, wasn't even nominated - but maybe she should have been? There's a good line-up of nominees in terms of video quality ("Fell In Love With A Girl" - *drool*), but you could argue that they're missing other earworms of the year like Britney's "Slave 4 U" and No Doubt's "Hey Baby".
The nominees: Eminem "Without Me" (wiener), Linkin Park - "In the End", NSync - "Gone", Nas - "One Mic", P.O.D. - "Alive", The White Stripes - "Fell in Love with a Girl"
2001 Which Song Most Defined The Year: "Lady Marmalade" or U2's "Beautiful Day"?
While "Lady Marmalade" (the winner) had lots of sass and huge pop appeal, the bigger choice might have been "Get Ur Freak On" or "Stan", don't you think? Both excellent videos AND songs. Let's not forget how amazing "Weapon Of Choice" was, too! Christopher Walken dancing?! Yes please.
The nominees: Christina Aguilera, Lil' Kim, Mya & Pink featuring Missy Elliott "Lady Marmalade" (wiener), Missy Elliott - "Get Ur Freak On", Eminem (featuring Dido) - "Stan", Fatboy Slim - "Weapon of Choice", Janet Jackson - "All 4 U", U2 - "Beautiful Day"
2000 Which Song Most Defined The Year: "The Real Slim Shady" or NSync's "Bye Bye Bye"?
"Bye Bye Bye" completely defines the pop scene taking over at the time, but the win goes to Eminem, who was moving past buzz artist to superstar with his new brand of hip hop. Another quality list of nominations - "Californication" is still a stand-out, "All The Small Things" is one of blink's best and "Untitled" is, well... zomg.
The nominees: Eminem "The Real Slim Shady" (wiener), blink-182 - "All the Small Things", D'Angelo - "Untitled (How Does It Feel)", Nsync - "Bye Bye Bye", Red Hot Chili Peppers - "Californication"
1999 Which Song Most Defined The Year: "...Baby One More Time" or "Doo Wop (That Thing)"?
Ok, this isn't fair. Lauryn Hill deserves the win with her stellar lyrics and sick video to match. But um, how was Britney NOT EVEN NOMINATED for video of the year? Britney Spears ate 1999 for breakfast. Yet, "Wild Wild West" was nominated? *Slaps forehead*
The nominees: Lauryn Hill "Doo Wop (That Thing)" (wiener), Backstreet Boys - "I Want It That Way", Korn - "Freak on a Leash", Ricky Martin - "Livin' La Vida Loca", Will Smith (featuring Dru Hill and Kool Moe Dee) - "Wild Wild West"
1998 Which Song Most Defined The Year: "Ray Of Light" or "Bittersweet Symphony"?
Oh, man. Both. Stellar videos, both. Great songs, both. Madonna won, and that's cool, but either could have taken it and been deserved. By the way, doesn't this list of nominees just reek of 1998? If I close my eyes and listen to these tracks, I'm back in grade 11 math class again. Dating myself: complete.
The nominees:
Madonna "Ray of Light" (wiener), Brandy and Monica - "The Boy Is Mine", Puff Daddy and the Family - "It's All About the Benjamins (Rock Remix)", Will Smith - "Gettin' Jiggy Wit It", The Verve - "Bitter Sweet Symphony"
It's been a busy summer and I can't believe it's almost over. I've been busy, but I still feel like I haven't been able to do everything I have wanted to do. But I can't really complain because I have still done some great stuff. In fact, I just tried kiteboarding and bailed pretty hard. We've been pretty busy shooting on weekends... Hot and Wet 2008 (airing Wed, Aug 27th @ 8pm ET) went down in Wasaga Beach this year. I'll hopefully have a few pictures for my MySpace and my Facebook fan page soon. I'm also going to try and post a few videos.
I am still working on the electric car I've talked about on Much in the past. It's coming along, but with how busy I've been, it's hard to get time to work on it. Most of the parts are in, but it still might be a while before it's done. Wish me luck!
I hope you guys are having a good Summer. Talk to you soon!
10 whole episodes have passed, 8 crews have been eliminated, 3 opinionated and ridiculous judges have spouted their wisdoms, 2nd season is coming to an end, with 1 crew coming out on top as America's Best Dance Crew. This is the finale.
This is how it's all going down... First up is a battle between the final two crews, SoReal Cru vs. Super CR3W.
When it started off, I thought maybe we were getting a showcase of Mario Lopez in A Chorus Line, but sadly(?) no. This battle was very reminiscent of the "Stomp the Yard" battle between Status Quo and JabbaWockeeZ in season 1, but much more flashy, no? I'm surprised they didn't throw in a few jazz hands just because. But I appreciate the chutzpah that these two crews are presenting.
Even though this is the finale and voting has closed, the judges obviously still have more to say - Ugh. Shane Sparks says it was dope and sick; Lil Mama says it was crazy and once again gets her common sayings wrong by saying "you always cease to amaze me"; JC Chasez says it was great and enjoyed the subtle disses.
And now for the re-introduction of the crews who have gotten the boot - and the makings of big regional group numbers...?! Me hopes so.
Distorted X (who?), Sass x7 (groan), Xtreme Dance Force (ha!), Phresh Select (oh right, them), A.S.I.I.D. (gone too soon), Supreme Soul (always amazing), Boogie Bots (meh), Fanny Pak (yay!).
And now (called it!) the regional group numbers! Representing the East Coast in the first group performance, we have Phresh Select, Sass x7 and Boogie Bots.
Song: Kat DeLuna - Run The Show
Hilarious. Why? Because Sass x7 (albeit talented) just don't fully fit in with their cheerleader antics. But when that Phresh Select member flipped over the Boogie Bots as they went into their lean back circle, you could tell this routine had bite.
Representing the South, we have Distorted X and SoReal Cru.
Song: David Banner ft. Chris Brown - Get Like Me
This routine was much better orchestrated, in terms of showcasing the two crews and at the same time melding both of them into one cohesive style. Way to go, South. And Lil Mama gives a standing ovation. Or her legs just need a stretch. Not sure.
Representing the Mid-West, we have Xtreme Dance Force and A.S.I.I.D.
Song: Kanye West ft. Lupe Fiasco - Touch The Sky
I thought this would have been a very unlikely and ridiculous combination (since Xtreme Dance Force are oft-ridiculous), however they both pulled it out. They both have hard hitting styles and it worked. Plus I secretly like Xtreme's jackets.
Oh look! JabbaWockeeZ are in the house!
Representing the West Coast, we have Supreme Soul, Fanny Pak and Super CR3W.
Song: E-40 - Go Hard Or Go Home
Um, obviously saving the best for last. I didn't fully realize that my 3 favourite crews were all from the west coast. That's it - I'm packing up and moving west and gonna join me a dance crew, mmhmm. OK - maybe not, but I can dream, no?
So now after many amazing routines, many stylish clothes, and lots of tears (oh-so-many tears), it's time to announce the winner of Season 2 of America's Best Dance Crew...
...but of course the judges have more to say and I roll my eyes. Let the love fest begin...
Shane tells Super CR3W to "respect yourself, respect your fans and respect your craft"; JC says SoReal Cru willed themselves here and that they "believe"; Mario says Lil Mama is looking "extra beautiful tonight"; and Lil Mama says that they are both "so real and super crews" (Get it? Huh? HUH?!).
Ok, so NOW it's time for the winner to be announced. WHO IS IT? WHO IS IT? WHO IS IT?! (Please be Super CR3W, please be Super CR3W...)
It's.... SUPER CR3W!!!!
Fireworks, explosions, standing ovations and "S" hand symbols all around. And of course the falling of the SoReal Cru banner. And Randy Jackson saunters on stage to award the trophy, the hundred thousand buck-a-roos and shamelessly plugs the upcoming ABDC tour.
And more fireworks and explosions.
And now, for the final performance, it's Super CR3W.
Song: The Game ft. Travis Barker - Dope Boys
I'm glad Super CR3W won and all, but what's with all the screaming? These crazy audience members are all going to get serious vocal nodes I'm sure. Just sayin'.
So this morning I woke up to a messy front lounge and the confirmation of Joe Biden being Barack Obama's VP running mate. The air is crisp and the skies are clear, I threw the football with our bus driver Cookie just to soak it all in.
We are living a dream out here touring let alone with such an amazing group of dudes, Simple Plan. I've found that nothing in this life is out of reach not even how far fetched they may seem. Work hard and you shall receive.
I've been posting some pictures from behind the scenes on our website so give them a gander.
Something strange is happening these days and only in the most brilliant of ways.
You know the scenario: It's Friday night and you're too lazy to do anything but stake out some hot property on your couch with your honey, some take-out and a rental. So you're loitering in the nearest Blockbuster, where the lady would like to see "PS: I Love You" (worst title ever, btw) and the senor is trying to go home with "10,000 B.C. (you know it sucks, right?). You've played out the Judd Apatow collection and you're this close to choosing "Superhero Movie" to just get it over with, dammit. Nono. Save yourself from the pain and heartache, you poor soul, with this handy guide to action flicks that everyone can enjoy. This way, the dude gets his explosions and the woman gets her end-of-the-movie make-out scene. Happy endings for all!
CATEGORY 1: MOVIES THAT ARE KIND OF LIKE CHICK FLICKS
Speed Synopsis: Hero cop (beefcake) and lady hero bus driver (adorable, yet sexy). Bad guy. Hostages. Bomb on bus. Explosions.
Yup, this choice is way predictable - but for good reason. Despite Keanu Reeve's questionable acting and some so-lame-they're-amazing one-liners ("pop quiz, hotshot"), this movie delivers the high-octane adventure with satisfying/sexy results. The bad guy dies, the heroes kiss and the nail-biting chases are still fresh in our minds. Plus hey, we kind of love Keanu's one-dimensional "there's a bomb on this bus" delivery, and one-liners are what action movies are made of.
Him: Keanu kicked some ass! A BUS jumps over a GAP in the HIGHWAY! Dennis Hopper plays the bad guy! Her: Keanu is hot! Sandra saves the day! They love each other in the end *shriek*!
Charlie's Angels Synopsis: Heroic trio of bad-ass women. Bad guys. Friendship. Plenty of ass kicking.
No scoffing, please. This movie is a hootenanny of a good time no matter how you slice it. (What?! Just roll with it). You've got your team of fighting femmes who don't need guns to get the job done, and the three leading ladies who rock the roles. There's tongue-in-cheek humour, sleek cinematography and Bill Murray. It's campy and ridiculous and totally worth watching even if just to see Drew Barrymore beat up three dudes with her hands tied behind her back.
Him: Cameron Diaz in underoos! Crazy fight scenes! Race cars! Her: Fierce lady heroes! Humour! Luke Wilson!
Bad Boys Synopsis: Hero cops (beefcakes). Camaraderie. Bad guys. Car chases and explosions.
Ok, basically anything with Will Smith in it could go here. Especially shirtless Will Smith. (See: I Am Legend [work out scene], I, Robot [shower scene], Independence Day. I'm gonna go take a cold shower now). So, this isn't really much of a chick flick (it's a buddy flick!), but if you're a girl and you appreciate the general Woll Smoth aesthetic, you will like this movie. That's a fact. Plus, Will and Martin Lawrence have an irresistable chemistry on screen, and though it's not the best movie ever (far from it), sometimes it's just fun to put your brain on hold and watch some hijinks.
Him: Cops! Drugs! Sweat! Her: Hot cops! Laughs! Sweat!
Italian Job (2003) Synopsis: Protagonist heist team. Heist. Bad guys. Exotic locations. Car chases. Love interest.
If well done, a heist movie can be much more than just eye candy. It can engage your inner geek, bring forth thrills and wonderment and sometimes shift your perception. While not being one of the best heist movies around, the Italian Job remake should satisfy your popcorn requirements. The car chase scene with the Minis is of course a stand out, while Matt Wahlberg & Charlize Theron are pretty good-looking and stuff. Bonus content: The 1969 version is even better!
Princess Bride Synopsis: Hero. Love interest (also hero). Adventure. Avengement. Heartache and happiness. Ass kicking.
Is it a misstep to call this an action movie? Maybe. But who cares - it's close enough, it's amazing and it has universal appeal. There's a classic storyline, fantastical elements and romance that even the most hardened soul can get behind. Best of all? You loved it as a kid and you can love it now - repeated viewings are encouraged.
Him: Outlaws! Pirates! Andre the Giant! Her: Romance! Fairy tale! Obedient farm hand!
Mr. And Mrs. Smith Synopsis: Protagonist married couple (secret assassins). Deception. Predicament. Bad guys. Explosions and ass kicking.
Remember a time when Brangelina didn't yet exist? Just think - all it took was a delicious mixture of pure sexified action and heads exploding (from the never before seen pairing) to create a phenomenon. Yep, this movie was like a Big Bang. Not coincidently, the movie itself includes many a gun bang, explosion bang, laugh bang, banging bodies, and eventually, girl + boy banging. Just call them Bangelina.
True Lies Synopsis: Hero (secret assassin). Love interest hero (unknowing wife). Bad guys. Deception. Vulnerability. Laughs.
One of the movies that introduced the modern concept of blockbuster, True Lies gave Arnold's typical killing machine some personality and Jamie Lee Curtis' slight awkwardness some fantastic bitchery. It's always a good time to get lost in a story that makes us laugh, makes us take notice and warms the cockles of our hearts while blowing things up in the process.
Him: Sexy dancing! Spies! Death defying! Her: Sexy dancing! Laughs! Rekindling romance!
CATEGORY 2: MOVIES THAT ARE PRETTY MUCH AWESOME
Bourne Identity Synopsis: Amnesiac hero (beefcake). Bad guys. Conspiracy. Teamwork. Car chases and explosions.
Most of the movies on this list are pure popcorn affairs - they're not quite up to par for the typical film snob and "tour de force" isn't really the first word that comes to mind. But Bourne Identity? Exception. Well acted, well crafted, well written and well received. Matt Damon isn't your typical action hero but is easily one of the stand-outs on this list. Bonus: the two sequels are also excellent, with the third film, Bourne Ultimatum, being the best of all.
Him: Truly likable hero! Danger! Hand to hand combat! Her: Well written! Emotional! Matt Damon!
Kill Bill Synopsis: Hero (lady assassin). Bad guys. Revenge. Ass kicking. More ass kicking.
If you've never seen this movie (je m'excuse?!), prepare to be stunned. Stunned by its simple yet powerful plot, stunned by the colours, stunned by the martial arts, stunned by the sensory overload, stunned by the gorgeous visuals. Basically, you may finish the movie and wonder what just happened - and then you'll want to see it again. Do you sense favouritism? Cause it's true. Bonus: Volume II is a totally different experience, and just as faboolous.
Raiders Of The Lost Ark Synopsis: Hero. Bad guys. Exotic locations. Adventure. Teamwork. Otherworldly awesomeness.
This flick is universally popular for a reason, you know. Even though you're aware of how things pan out in the end, you darling couples can cuddle on the couch - the dude, biting your nails when Indiana finds himself in a pile of snakes while the girl, cringing, reaches for a protective arm. Romantic, isn't it? Plus, you know, the movie is kind of crazy awesome and stuff, or whatever. Who hasn't wanted to be an Indiana Jones-like hero at some point in their life?
Him: Indiana Jones! Knives! Arch Nemesi! Her: Harrison Ford! Shiny things! Good story!
Casino Royale Synopsis: Hero (beefcake). Love interest (intelligent, sexy). Bad guys. Car chases and explosions. Ass kicking.
Those who doubted James Bond's latest depiction by Daniel Craig - haters to the left. The latest Bond is the man most dudes want to be and most females want to be with. Then there was Vesper Lynd, the love interest most girls want to be and most men want to be with. But in reality, many of us were too busy getting swept up in the incredible action sequences, dangerous predicaments and wonderful cinematography to notice that we're just dirty slobs on a couch. Maybe that's just me?
Him: Man's Man! Poker! Aston Martin! Her: Man's Man! Cool as ice female lead! Amazing stunts!
Die Hard Synopsis: Hero cop (beefcake). Bad guys. Hostages. Negotiating. Explosions and ass kicking.
Sometimes touted as the best action film of all time, Die Hard launched a sub-genre of flicks sticking the hero in a hostage situation while using wit and bad assery to get out. Bruce Willis' John McClane is a hero to men and likable by ladies despite being kind of an ass. It's a nail-biter, a roller coaster and the very definition of terrific. Basically, if this movie were a president, it would be Thrill Clinton.
Him: Bruce Willis! One-liners! Weaponry! Her: Bruce Willis! Alan Rickman! Christmas!
What would you add the list? My personal faves are Terminator 2 and Face/Off, and I'm so furious that they're not mentioned. Who wrote this, anyway?! What a jerk.
* Wyclef was so inspired by watching Venus Williamsthat he wrote a song for her. Dear Venus: Wyclef wants to do it with you.
* Wait... what?! American Idolis adding a fourth judge?! That's like going back in time and removing all the brontosauruses .. it's going to disrupt the universe!
Oh no he didn't!!! Wait...yes, yes he did!! For all of you who grew up watching 'The Fresh Prince Of Bel Air', you'll agree with me when I say that this video is crazier than Britney Spears. Shad got it down to the T! From the wardrobe, to the props, the camera angles and even the font, it was like watching the show's original opening sequence, just backwards.
The one move that really sticks out everytime I watch 'Fresh Prince' is when Will Smith knocks on the door and moves his head around in a circle super fast. (yes, it sounds weird on paper, but you know what I'm talking about!) When I saw Shad play that part out, I felt like I was sitting back and watching another 'Fresh Prince' episode.
Shad's got that old school hip hop kind of vibe, which is why his tribute to the classic TV series works so well and why I chose it as my Video of The Week.
Is anybody else surprised about the Pussycat Dolls domination of the VMA nominations? Not that it matters, but they haven't even released their album yet - which, by the way, is called Doll Domination. Ohhh, we see what you're doing here, Pussycat PR geniuses. I can imagine the post-awards headlines: PUSSYCAT DOLLS DOMINATE VMAs (buy their album Doll Domination on September 28!). You sneaky devils. This could be the cheekiest marketing plan of the week.
PCD trail Britney by one nomination for the lead: le Spears clocks in at nine, whereas the hot trannies have eight - and they shouldn't win any of them. But Wait, don't get me wrong - I have an unhealthy love for PCD; my ringtone collection includes "I Don't Need A Man" and "Beep", and if I could magically transform into a superior human, I might choose Nicole Scherzinger. But if this awards ceremony is truly down for awarding the most influential, resonating, memorable videos of the year ... will you remember "When I Grow Up" in 2010? How about next month? Anyway, here's why I think they shouldn't go home with any moonmen:
1. "When I Grow Up" hasn't even topped the charts - it maxed out at #9.
2. Britney Spears, with all her pop influence throughout the past decade, has yet to win a VMA. The girl deserves some sympathy wins. So if it comes down to Brit and PCD? Brit every time. Well, except for Best Choreography. Brit kind of phoned in "Gimme More".
3. In the Best Direction category, they're up against Coldplay. Coldplay wins.
4. Video of the Year? REALLY?! Not that I agree with any of the choices, but they should probably go with Jonas Brothers. This was truly the year of the JoBros.
5. Best Art Direction? Aren't they in the street? Call me ignorant but have you SEEN Kanye's "Homecoming" or Coldplay's "Viva La Vida"?
6. I get the suspicious feeling that the mob was involved with these nominations. Cheaters never win. I mean, they do.. but then they should feel bad about it.
7. Ok, so maybe they could win the Best Dancing category. I'll give them that. Although.... Chris Brown is kind of superior.
8. Will "When I Grow Up" define 2008? No. And in the end, winners should be the jerks who shaped a year of music. I bet Kanye's pretty bummed that he's not on this list more...
A little while ago, we told you about this contest that you should enter OR FEEL THE WRATH OF OUR DIRTY CLUTCH. Ahem. Mostly because there's a dunkload of things to win, like a trip to LA to see Vanessa Hudgens (BBV) in concert, or one of our VJ prize-packs ($2000 shopping spree? LCD TV and Blu-Ray player?! Yes please). But the contest is over on Monday, so you have to enter NAO! Alls you gotta dos is tell us what's your wave - what you think is in style, what's hot right now, what you're listening to. Easy! Here's an example:
My wave is the bump! It's a hairstyle that I started to wear and soon after all my friends started to follow! It's where you pin your bangs back on the top of your head in a little bump! I say the bigger bump the better!
Prankster Zac Efron apparently gets his comeuppance on the set of High School Musical 3. The following features water guns, toilet paper, and a wet, shirtless Efron (you know, for those of you who like that sort of thing... ahem).
Ok, roll call: anybody who wants to spend some time chilling with Girlicious, raise your hands thusly. *raises hand*
Good, good. Now, here's the thing: we're looking for one superfan to meet Nic, Nat, Tiff & Chrys this Monday!!
If you're interested, send us an email at redhot@muchmusic.com, and tell us why you want to meet them! Please also include a couple of questions you'd want to ask them cause, oh yeah - we're going to film you doing an interview!
The great people at MuchMusic have asked me to blog each and every morning for the duration of our Canadian tour with Simple Plan, Metro Station and Faber Drive. As you know by now I graciously accepted, how can anyone turn down typing about being in the lovely country of Canada?
So I'll just go ahead and list off (in no particular order) a few of the reasons why I love being here.
1. Scores of breathtaking women. 2. An undying devotion to the best sport I've ev
