Elfman's Favorite TV Shows of 2008

5) The Mentalist
Okay its not Masterpiece Theater, but I really like this show.The Mentalist is pure entertainment. It's mindless TV, but it's good Mindless TV.
Forget the dark sub plot and comparisons to USA's Psyched . The Mentalist delivers an hour of neatly wrapped crime solving suspense, but with a bit of a twist. Simon Baker (The Guardian) plays Patrick Jane, a former phony psychic who now works for the CBI (California Bureau of Investigation) now using only his observational skills to assist the team in solving murder cases. The show goes a long way on the charisma of Baker and a stellar cast including Robin Tunney (Prison Break). An hour of polished crime drama. Deep but not too Deep.



4) Mad Men
No other television show in recent memory has been so critically acclaimed (if viewer hungry), then Mad Men. And it has the Emmy and Golden Globe Awards to back this up. Madmen explores the deceptive and twisted world of power advertising in the 1960's. It follows the high pressure life of Don Draper, the best rep at Sterling Cooper, and certainly one of the best on Madison Avenue. Don, among others has some dark secrets in his past however. The show is a slow moving character study of successful but misguided troubled people and it sucks you into their lives on a weekly basis. Jon Hamm, Elizabeth Moss, John Slattery, and January Jones head up a cast that defines excellence. It is also interesting to see how many things have changed for the better since the 60's when you see all the inequality for women, blacks and gays of the period. Another sign of the times is the amount of drinking on the job, constant smoking by everyone in the cast and even littering.



3) Brothers and Sisters
Want to feel better about your own screwed up dysfunctional extended family for at least one hour a week? Then you must tune in to ABC Sunday Nights at 10 for the very entertaining Brothers and Sisters. The prime time sudser follows the lives of The Walker Clan, led by intrusive, but loving matriarch Nora Walker (Oscar and Emmy Winner Sally Field). The death of William Walker leaves the family to deal with the matter of running the family winery and the discoveries of all his extramarital affairs and indiscretions. Seems there is always a new Walker sibling showing up at the door step.
The plots are well written and finely polished for a soap covering the gambit of soap storylines including politics, addiction, gay marriage, and forbidden love..This show should be sponsored by Pepsid AC because I don't know how any of them get through a family dinner without sever indigestion.
Besides Field the cast includes seasoned professionals Rob Lowe, Colista Flockhart and Rachel Griffiths.



2) Raising the Bar
I accidentally caught this show while channel surfing on Monday night and am extremely glad I did. From Emmy winning producer Steven Bochco(NYPD Blue), Raising the Bar follows a group of young public defenders in their daily lives and courtroom battles for the underdog with the powerful DA. Each week offers a gripping hard hitting drama but with a lot of heart there too. It stars Mark-Paul Gosselear (NYPD Blue, Saved by The Bell) as Jerry Kellerman, one of the most idealistic of these young attorneys who leaves no stone unturned for the rights of his clients. He has become one of the finest young actors on television today. His hair, however will remain a moot point. The superb cast is rounded out by Gloria Reuben (ER), Jane Kaczencrek (Malcom in the Middle) and Teddy Sears (One Life to Live).



1) Bravo Network
There's a new melting pot in America and it's right here on Bravo TV. No other network has ever assembled such an eclectic group of diverse interesting characters. How can you not be intrigued by the rich and powerful, sometimes back-stabbing women of the Real Housewives series, notably Nene (Atlanta) and Vicki (Orange County)? And how about Jeff Lewis of Flipping Out, who has raised OCD to an art form?
Bravo didn't invent reality TV, but they sure perfected it with shows like Millionaire Matchmaker and Top Design. But nowhere is this more evident then in the Network's two most successful shows, Project Runway and Top Chef. These shows take you behind the scenes of the competitive worlds of chefs and upcoming designers and their claw to the top. The judges are smart, tough and funny with Chef Tom Colicchio on Chef and Michael Cors doing the honors on Runway. They've got eye candy too with Top Chef's food-tasting temptress Padma and Runway's Heidi Klum, the queen of Victoria's Secret. There's also father figure and style mentor Tim Gunn, who has become a superstar in his own right from the designing show.
And how can you forget some of the contestants. There was the constant back-stabbing between Betty and Marcel on Top Chef season Two. Some of the chefs even went as far as to try to scalp Marcel during a night of drinking. And how about the knife wielding road runner Hung, from season 3?
Runway has its favorites too. There was season 4 winner Christian, who showed superstar designing talent and coined the phrase "That's Fierce". And the constant whining and underhandedness of style princess Kenley from last season. Bravo for me is Must Watch TV.

My Top 5
I don't know why I've been agonizing over this, maybe because it seems so final ... here it is ... My Top 5 TV Shows of 2008:



5. Sons of Anarchy (F/X)
This is the only "new" show to make my list, and for good reason. When I first read about it in TV Guide, it was heavily compared to the Sopranos. As a fan of the latter, I had to check SOA out. And I wasn't disappointed! Starring Brit export Charlie Hunnam (another reason I wanted to watch), Ron Perlman and Katey Sagal (in a stunning, career-reviving performance), the show centers around the lives of a close-knit motorcycle club operating in Charming, a fictional town in the San Joaquin Valley in Northern California. The club specializes in running guns and ammo around the country and look-out if you decide to get in their way! Well-written and even more well-acted, this show easily fills the void left by my favorite Jersey gangsters. I only wish it were on HBO or another pay channel where it could get real nasty. Who knew Peg Bundy could be so tough?



4. nip/tuck (F/X)
It was early this past year when we last saw Drs. Sean McNamara and Christian Troy, but they'll always be close to my heart (and I'm sooo looking forward to the eight new episodes starting in January!). The show, originally set in Miami, moved last season to Hollywood and the already over-the-top shenanigans got even higher. Dylan Walsh's McNamara became a consultant on Hearts and Scalpels, a show loosely based on his own practice; dated a starlet with an eating disorder (doesn't everybody in H'wood?) and was stalked by his murderous agent (Sharon Gless, was that Cagney or Lacey?). While the hottest Doc on TV (McDreamy and McSteamy can't compare), with the biggest libido, Julian McMahon's Troy continued to bed everybody - oh and unintentionally (??) threw one of his problematic conquests off a roof to her death. Bye-Bye Gina! Nip/tuck is cheese at its best, I absolutely love it! Who knows ... maybe the Carver will return next season ... now that would make my New Year!



3. The Shows of Bravo
The Elfman and I totally agree on this one! Thinking about my Top 5, I realized I watch a lot of Bravo! He put it better than I ever could, but here's my rundown starting with the show that put Bravo on the map - Inside the Actors Studio. Though not in any permanent time slot, I still look for it on a regular basis and not for the guests. I find host James Lipton fascinating! Remember he made my most fascinating list last month, and for good reason. If you can, check out his book - Inside, Inside - you'll see what I mean. If you're a regular reader of this blog you already know that I love Project Runway, Top Chef and all the Real Housewives. But I also make time for Million Dollar Listing (Chad, get a real hairdo dude!), Tabitha's Salon Takeover (someone's gonna kill that woman), Sheer Genius (Kim Vo - WTH?), The Rachel Zoe Show (Brad, grow a pair) and Flipping Out (Jeff Lewis, don't ever change man). Looking to 2009, I can't wait for these shows to return, with the exception of Project Runway, of course, who's move to Lifetime is still being held up in court. So I say Bravo to Bravo, my favorite Guilty Pleasure!



2. Torchwood
Torchwood is a British science fiction drama that deals with the machinations and activities of the Cardiff branch of the fictional Torchwood Institute. An anagram of Doctor Who, from which this show is spun, Torchwood delves into darker subject matter and is also sexier and adult oriented. Starring the dashing John Barrowman as Captain Jack Harkness, a man who can't die, the team deals mainly with incidents involving extraterrestrials and time- and universe-travel. A little cheesy, but that's how I like my Sci-Fi, Torchwood got even better in its second season. Although not currently airing on BBC America, the show can be found on DVD. Try Netflix.



1. LOST
Is anyone surprised that this made my No. 1? Ever since Oceanic Flight 815 crashed on a supposedly deserted island on September 22, 2004, my TV world has never been the same. After watching the first three episodes, I was, well, lost! And I haven't found my way back yet, although last season really pulled out all the stops. What other show could possibly end their season by moving - yes, moving - an entire island? Season 3 ended with us finding out that some castaways actually got off the island and went home, while Season 4 showed us everything that led up to that fateful day, leaving us wondering what happened to everybody else? Sun lost Jin, Claire found her dead father in Jacob's cabin (and he seemed alive), Desmond found Penny, Jack and Kate left Sawyer behind and we found out, after a year of speculating, who was in the coffin. Are you LOST reading this? If so, too bad. If you haven't been watching, it's too late now unless you go back on DVD and watch from the beginning. I can't remember a show that had me debating theories with complete strangers before. And I mean heated debates. Fans of this show are passionate and for good reason. Looking forward to its return on January 21!

Honorable Mentions: Since we limited it to 5, here's the rest I considered good TV, in no particular order. Survivor: Gabon, Big Bang Theory, Dexter, Entourage, Skins (another BBC show), Doctor Who, Californication and The Graham Norton Show.

Happy New Year Everyone - don't spend tonight watching TV - go out and enjoy!

So I watched Bromance on MTV last night – bad, bad television.
In case your were curious, here’s a rundown – I’ll try to be brief.

Nine contestants from all over the country converged on Los Angeles to meet their idol – Brody Jenner. Brody’s famous for being The Hills’ sometime, sorta, on-and-off BF of Lauren Conrad. Oh, and he’s the son of Olympic Medalist Bruce Jenner. If you know who Bruce is, you’re really dating yourself. That also makes him the stepbro of those awful Kardashian girls. Also, Brody’s incredibly handsome – I’m sure that’s exactly why he’s still on TV. Hey, I’ll admit it. I tuned in last night just to look at him for an hour. And I paid the price … this show is just plain awful!


Really, what guy wouldn't luv Brody?

Anyway, the contestants were put up in a hotel where they all talked about how they couldn’t wait to meet Brody – "he lives the most incredible life" (i.e. doesn’t work and spends his time partying with incredibly great looking chicks). You know, every guy’s dream.
Brody sent his underlings, including Spencer’s replacement Frankie, to the hotel to wake the guys up in the middle of the night for a “come as you are”-style meeting at the …. Wait for it …. BRO-MANSION!! No, I’m not kidding. One dude, Luke, was actually naked.

After cooing and oggling over Brody for most of the night, the guys were given their first task – to invite two ladies to a lingerie party (without mentioning Brody’s name, of course, cuz what girl wouldn’t want to party with him, me included) and have the girls actually show up by 9 pm.

Before getting to the task, the bros got to spend some time learning about each other. Gary’s the wild-haired geek type. Femi’s the token ethnic dude. But my fave was definitely Michael – the admittedly gay guy! WTH is he doing there? At least he fully admits he’s hot for Brody! And the rest just all blur together as the All-American looking jock types.
We get to know them thru their Real World-style confessionals, spoken to us on camera in the – no lie – Can-fessional. Yes, in a bathroom, while sitting on the toilet. I get it – just guys doing guy stuff.

While inside the lingerie party waiting for his guests to arrive, Brody asks Frankie to check on the bros. Frankie feigns being upset over Brody getting to choose a new BF – afterall, isn’t that Frankie’s “job”?

Goofy Gary’s first to get his babes to arrive and enters the party. Soft-hearted Michael gives Brody a birthday card. Luke’s chix show up next. Alex makes it in. The rest of the losers are allowed in despite the fact that their girls didn’t show up, but are forced to stay after and clean up. Whaaaa.

The next day, sensitive Michael asks to speak privately to Brody and lets him know that this isn’t for him and quits. Brody gives him a hug.

Our hero then takes the remaining contestants to his apartment and tells them that whoever wins gets the apartment as a prize – fully furnished with all the best in guy acutrements.
But wait, Brody lets them know that unfortunately someone is going home and they’ll find out who when they join Brody in the hot tub. ????? Yeah, I said in the hot tub. OK, that was just too much for me. I gotta say it – isn’t that a little, you know, gay?
– not that there’s anything wrong with that!

After much soaking and sweating in the tub, Brody decided to send poser Jason home for trying to pass off women he just met on the street outside the club as his score for the party, cussing and not holding his liquor.

Then came my fave part – after Jason leaves, Brody invites all the guys to get back in the hot tub with him. And I was wondering why MTV chose to premiere this fine show in the middle of the holiday TV glut, where it would have absoluely no competition … hmmmmm

I’ll be checking in the the Real Wives of Orange County on Bravo tonight at 10 p.m. just to cleanse myself for watching this craptastic fiesta!

Hey, and guess what – Brett Michael’s Rock of Love Bus is just around the corner, debuting on VH1 Sunday night at 9 p.m. Oh Happy New Year indeed!

Got the Elfman's Top 5 TV shows list and I'll be working on mine tonight. Look for it tomorrow!

Just a quick note, Elfman:

Noticed on the schedule that your favorite cookbook author and reality show hostess will be appearing on The Oprah Winfrey Show tomorrow ...

Oh yeah, you guessed it -- Top Chef's Padma Lakshmi!

Says it's part of Oprah's Sandwich Showdown, which I'm guessing is a repeat from earlier this year. Sound a little familiar to you?

Anyway, I know you'll take the luscious Padma any way you can get her so don't forget to DVR it! And keep playing the lottery, you know you'll need at least a billion to get her attention!

Oh, and here's your favorite photo again -- enjoy!

Aaaah, I love this time of year. Much as I love television, I also love the time at the holidays when there's nothing on to watch. It gives me a chance to catch up on some DVDs that have been collecting dust on the shelvs since September.

However, there are a few exceptions and here's a reminder for tonight.

NBC offers up an all-new episode of their foray into reality TV -- Momma's Boys -- at 10 p.m. This show is sooo cheesy that I can feel the cholesterol building in my veins as I watch it. It has that car-accident factor. You don't really want to watch, but you can't help yourself.
Anyway, tune in to see who JoJo's Momma is going after this week ...

And, yes, I do realize that MTV is debuting an all-new spinoff of that show I hate, but can't miss -- The Hills tonight in the same time slot. The City stars LC's bud Whitney Port as she takes Manhattan by yawn, I mean, storm ... Sorry MTV, you're not getting me on this one!


Bromance's Main Man

You will, however, have my undivided attention at 9 p.m. when ultra hot Brody Jenner's new show debuts. Bromance is shamelessly plugged as Jenner's search for a new true friend that won't stab him in the back a la Spencer Pratt. If you don't know the history between these two, it's not worth my time rehashing it here (hence to say, you won't be interested in this show either).
Anyway, I will fully admit that I'm only watching this show to look at Jenner for an hour -- *sighs*
The premise seems to be too much like the show that played this time slot earlier this season -- Paris Hilton's My New BFF. And if that's the case, I don't even think Brody's hot looks will be enough to keep me watching for long ...

I'll let you know.

OK, as promised, here's my Top 5 Films of 2008. They've already been posted over on The Mercury's Scene & Heard blog, so I'm posting them here for my readers. Please check out the other posting here http://www3.allaroundphilly.com/blogs/pottstown/chrism/2008/12/top-5-movies-we-scene-heard-in-2008.html along with my fellow blogger Chris March's Top 5 Flicks. He's even added trailers for each flick.

I'm not a pro-critic, so don't expect to see all those serious Oscar hopefuls here. I'm just a movie fan like the rest of you. Besides, most of "those" movies just came out this past weekend for the general public.

I've been sidelined over the holiday with that dreaded stomach flu that won't quit, but, hopefully, before the New Year I'll have my Top 5 (maybe 10) TV Shows of 2008, as well as those of the Elfman!

Here goes:



5. WALL-E: When I first saw the preview for this one, I thought it looked like all those cute, animated kids’ movies and immediately put it in the “rental” category. It wasn’t until it started making all the critics end-of-year lists that I finally sat down, watched it, and totally loved it! The story of a lonely Waste Allocation Load Lifter Earth-Class (WALL-E), who’s only friend is a cockroach, left behind to clean up the Earth after the humans packed up and left their wasted planet, is compelling and very well done. Appealing to both children and adults alike.



4. Cloverfield: Yes, I’m prepared to take the heat for this choice. You either love or hate this monster flick from last January. And I loved it! I loved it so much that after watching it for free on the Internet, I actually paid with a bunch of coworkers to see it in the theater. Shot with a hand-held camera, a la Blair Witch Project, this film followed four friends trying to escape New York City after some sort of monster attack. Think 2000’s Godzilla, only much, much better! It was edge-of-your-seat entertainment from beginning to end.



3. Tropic Thunder: In a word, Hilarious! I saw the preview ahead of Iron Man back in May and couldn’t wait for August to arrive so I could see the rest of the film. And it didn’t disappoint. Depicting the behind-the-scenes making of a “true story” of Vietnam soldiers, Tropic Thunder was by far the funniest flick of the year. Any film that puts Robert Downey Jr. in black-face and Tom Cruise in a skull cap and fat suit is OK with me. Not to mention the hilarious fake movie trailers at the beginning … I’m still hoping they make full versions of Satan’s Alley, The Fatties: Fart 2, Scorcher I-VI and, of course, Simple Jack!



2. Iron Man: I had never heard of Tony Stark before seeing this fine flick, but the trailer was enough to hook me. The first bonafide hit of the summer, Iron Man brought back to life the career on one of my all-time fave actors. Robert Downey Jr.’s portrayal of Tony Stark/Iron Man along with Jon Favreau’s directing was enough to rocket this film to the top of the box office in early May. Needlesstosay I was very impressed. I highly recommend it!



1. The Dark Knight: While this film has made just about every critic’s Best Of list, none of them have the nerve to make it No. 1, opting instead for the obligatory serious films, i.e. Slumdog Millionaire, Gran Torino or The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (all of which, to be fair, I haven’t seen yet). But in the words of this flick’s villain The Joker, I ask, “Why So Serious?” The second of director Chris Nolan’s Batman movies, The Dark Knight was more than just a comic book film. It was easily the most anticipated movie of the year and featured a great story, spot on special effects and some of the best performances of the year. It’s made nearly a billion dollars worldwide and tops the Box Office for 2008, with barely any competition. And, of course, it features what is possibly the best performance of the late Heath Ledger’s career. I would never have thought that anyone could best Jack Nicholson’s Joker in Tim Burton’s Batman, but he more than managed. If you see one film this year, make it The Dark Knight.



And the Best of the Worst: Speed Racer! I was sooo looking forward to this film, being a huge fan of the popular TV cartoon. And I was sooooo disappointed!! Wachowski Bros, what happened? How could you take such a great premise and turn it into an explosion of purple and pink computer generated effects, ruining my cherished memories of Speed, Trixie, Spridle, Chim Chim and Pops. Not to mention giving Sparky the Queer Eye! Awful, just awful! Be warned …

So, what do you think? Let me know what were your favorites -- or least faves! I'll be waiting to hear from you ...

Sunday night, after making many, many Christmas cookies, I psyched myself up to rewatch my Worst Christmas Movie, hit the couch, popped in the DVD and laughed myself silly.
OK, so here it is - drum roll please ....

Santa's Slay


Yeah, that's Slay as in slaying all the happy Christmas-cheering people in the Hell Township. Hell Township!

While this 2005 release is nowhere near as badly made as Elfman's Santa Claus Conquers the Martians, the cheese factor of this black comedy is pure Wisconsin Gold!
Pro-wrestler Bill Goldberg plays the devil's son (Santa ... Satan, get it?) who lost a wager with an angel and was forced to spend 1000 years playing Santa. Now the wager of that time has run out, and good old Santa isn't so joyful anymore.

The film starts out almost respectable - almost. It's Christmas Eve 2005 and the first family of Hell Township is celebrating with a yuletide feast that would make Martha Stewart jealous. I mean, when I saw James Caan sitting at the head of the table, I thought, WTH? James Caan? This movie might not be too bad afterall. Fran Drescher plays his wife, along with Chris Kattan and Rebecca Gayheart in supporting roles.
Not long after they all get into it with each other (as is a family tradition at the holidays), our devilish Santa comes crashing down the chimney, kicks the dog, stabs Caan's hands to the table with serving forks and sets Drescher's hair on fire. In a few minutes, everyone's dead, thereby setting the tone for this shlockfest!

Flash to Hell Township's quaint little village - young Nicolas Yuleson (I kid you not) is closing up the deli along with his coworker Mary "Mac" Mackenzie (Lost's Emilie de Ravin) when a surly old lady comes in for a last minute sandwich. After letting loose a string of obscenities at our youngsters, the curmudgeon drives off, only to be run off the road by Santa and his sleigh-pulling Brahma bull. That's right, no reindeer here, just one huge Brahma!

Nic's grandpa (secretly the angel from 1000 years past) fills him in on the Christmas wager, reading from - are you ready for this - The Book of Claus! This is when we learn that the wager involved a curling match - yeah - a curling match!!
(Curling, for those of you who don't know, is an Olympic sport that involves sliding heavy, polished granite stones down the ice towards a target, in this case a hole in the ice.)

Back to the story: Since this is a bad movie, it has to include gratuitous nudity, so guess where Santa ends up next? Oh yeah, the local strip joint, where he effectively makes mincemeat out of all the (topless) sinners and his Brahma eats the valet.

Oh, I forgot to mention the crappy stop motion photography (reminiscent of those Rankin & Bass specials) that illustrates the legendary curling storyline in a flashback while Grandpa and Nic sit in his - underground bunker!

Next, Santa takes on Hasidic Jews, even they're not safe from our red-suited mad man! The Chief of Police gets a taser to his nether regions (yeah, I just wrote nether regions), and the rest of the staff is unceremoniously murdered.

Back in the bunker, Nic says, "We're trapped in a closet on Christmas with Santa trying to murder us. How f---d up is that?" (It wouldn't be a bad movie without cheesy dialogue afterall.)
And if that's not enough, wait till you see the snowmobile chase with flying Brahma bull and sleigh, complete with bad Christmas music written specially for this lame flick.

Uh-oh, there just happens to be a Norman Rockwell Christmas celebration going on downtown with the townsfolk when the snowmobile chase brings Brahma Bull Santa thru the streets ...
Hey, is that Dave Thomas of Bob and Doug Mackenzie fame? Sure is Hoser! Why he's the town pastor, so nothing bad will happen to him right? Not.

One of my fave moments happens after Santa chases our heroic couple into the town library. While holding a copy of A Christmas Carol, Santa says (no lie), "Christmas can sure scare the Dickens out of people."

And it all ends up at the local hockey rink, complete with Zamboni chase - c'mon, you knew that was coming right? And yet another curling wager ... will there be a happy ending? You'll have to sit thru all 87 minutes to find out.

Santa's Slay is available for rental. I got it thru Netflix. But you can watch the opening scene with James Caan and friends here http://video.google.com/videosearch?q=santa%27s+slay&emb=0&aq=f#

And here's the trailer http://video.google.com/videosearch?q=santa%27s+slay&emb=0&aq=f#q=santa's%20slay%20trailer&emb=0

Merry Christmas!

Well, I watched Momma’s Boys on NBC Friday night. Actually I taped it and watched in Saturday morning. And I’m intrigued.
Momma’s Boys is the latest reality dating show TV’s offering up and features 32 single women living in a house with the mothers of four (I think) eligible batchelors. Yeah, you just know this one’s gonna have some great cat fights!
It’s produced by that adorable little elf Ryan Secrest, but fear not, he’s nowhere to be seen on the show!


On the first episode, there was too much swapping back-and-forth between the mothers and the female contestants and it got a little confusing. But it was all just a build-up to the big confrontation between the single ladies of color and JoJo’s mother of all mothers. Yes, one of the guys is actually named JoJo!
It seems JoJo’s mom doesn’t want any blacks, Hispanics, Chinese, Jews -- basically anything other than caucasian -- anywhere near her beloved son. And she’s not afraid to let everyone know it!
Although, based on the season’s previews, JoJo’s gonna experience it all whether Momma approves or not!

The show came to an abrupt conclusion after one of the girls (sorry, don’t remember any names yet) got all up in Momma JoJo’s face by the pool and was to be continued ….
And here’s the best part, it’s continued tonight starting at 9 p.m. and it must be a doozy, because NBC has given the show a 2-hour time slot this week.
I’ll definitely be tuning in!

Joel & cohost Lou

Elsewhere on TV tonight, Joel McHale and his motley crue of misfits offer up The Year in Soup over on E! at 10 p.m. That outta be great! I’ll definitely have to tape it.

And the season that wouldn’t end is actually ending tonight on MTV. Yes folks, it’s time to say good-bye to that awful show that I can’t stop watching – The Hills!! Why do I care about what happens to these people?? I’m totally dumbfounded, but have to find out! As of this writing Speidi is still unlegally wed, Whitney is moving to New York City for her own show (didn’t think they could get more uninteresting than The Hills, just wait for The City), Audrina’s already moved out – whatever will Lauren do?

At least now that The Hills is over MTV has awarded its time slot to a show that I'm really looking forward too -- Bromance! What, you haven't heard of this one yet? Well the only thing you really need to know it that it stars The Hills' resident Himbo Brody Jenner! Oh yeah, I'll take my Brody any way I can get him. Anyway, the description goes that the ultimate hottie puts nine dudes to the test to see if they're best-bud material. Sounds a lot like MTV's Paris Hilton BFF show.
Bromance makes it's debut next Monday night.

Hello Brody!

Oh, and I caught up on last week’s episode of The Mentalist. I’ll reserve my opinion till after another episode. I loved Simon Baker (but I did before this show). It was OK, wouldn’t call it great. But, hey, every series has an off episode. In fact, most of the final season of The Sopranos was "off."

I watched my Worst Christmas Movie Ever, look for my review shortly. Also, I’ve completed Top 5 Movies of 2008 for The Mercury’s Scene & Heard blog. Once it’s posted there, I’ll put it up here. Stay tuned …

The New York Post reports that Project Runway Style Guru Tim Gunn is getting into it with some designers over their use of fur.
In conjunction with PETA, Gunn, now the chief creative officer for Liz Claiborne, has fired off videotaped personal pleas to Giorgio Armani and Donna Karan urging them to stop using rabbit fur from China, a place with no animal rights laws.
On the video is gruesome footage of rabbits being skinned alive and foxes getting electrocuted. Way to make your point Tim!
Armani and Karan were singled out, according to PETA, because they both made pledges to be fur-free, but have gone back on their word.
PETA has even gone so far as to launch a web site, DonnaKaranBunnyButcher.com where viewers can watch such videos as "Have You Ever Heard a Bunny Scream?" Wow, and just in time for the holidays.
Needlesstosay, I won’t be logging on to that one anytime soon. Personally, I would never wear fur, but I am guilty of wearing leather shoes …
What do you think?

You should all know by now what a huge fan the Elfman is of BOC (that's Blue Oyster Cult, for those of you not in the know). Well, I received an urgent message from him this weekend and had to pass it on!

"Saw this on the BOC site

"This week's three shows have all been cancelled. In an unfortunate mishap, Blue Oyster Cult lead guitarist/vocalist Donald "Buck Dharma" Roeser slipped on a flight of stairs in hisFlorida home this past Sunday evening, while carrying some packages.The fall resulted in a shoulder injury, which has forced the cancellation of the band's remaining shows for 2008.A complete and full recovery is expected."

elfman



The Elfman has spoken! Let's all wish a speedy recovery and Happy Holidays to Buck!!

In the meantime, enjoy this clip of Elfman's fave Saturday Nigth Live sketch ...
http://phillyb.vox.com/library/video/6a00c2252211cc8fdb00c225230ad58e1d.html

Last night there was a rare occurance at my house -- there was absolutely nothing on TV I wanted to watch! So instead, I watched Don't Mess with the Zohan -- don't bother wasting your time watching the Zohan, either. Had some laughs, but basically stupid.

Anybody watch NBC’s new reality show Momma’s Boys Tuesday night? No, I didn’t either … but since the network is seeing fit to re-air the premiere installment again tonight and a friend at work said it was hilarious, I think I’m gonna give it a try.

Never heard of it?

Well, according to the NBC web site, Momma’s Boys, executive produced by Ryan Seacrest ("American Idol") and Andrew Glassman ("Average Joe"), centers on a group of mothers who must help choose the perfect woman for their complacent sons. Ultimately, the series poses the question: "Who is really the most important woman in every man's life?"

In Momma's Boys, love is in the air but the story is told from a new television perspective – because first, the women will have to get by mom.

Drama ensues when numerous mothers and their eligible bachelor sons are housed together with several single women. As the tension mounts, viewers will watch as possessive mothers influence their son's search for the perfect mate.

Some of the possible brides are "nice girls," while others might not be as presentable. As expected, rivalries are formed, drama mounts and emotion builds as crucial choices must be made.

Momma's Boys airs tonight at 8 p.m. Elfman -- be there!

A note to Ms. Java, who commented on yesterday's Top Chef Recap: My fave this season is definitely Fabio, although I do like Hosea and Stefan too. Ariane is proving to be an interesting chef, although the rest of the girls don't impress me. Carla gets on my last nerve, and there's just something about Melissa's serial killer stare that really scares me (that chick shouldn't be around knives).
Overall, except perhaps Fabio, none of this season's cheftestants compare to the big personalities of the past: Marcel, Sam, Elia, Trey, Ilan, CJ, Cliff, Richard, Spike (I've got a culinary b-ner) the girl who looked like Jen Aniston (sorry, can't think of her name, but I really liked her), and, of course, the man who was a danger to everyone else in the kitchen -- Hung!

CJ & Trey (don't remember guy on left)
Remember when Sam, Ilan and Cliff tried to shave Marcel's head -- best top chef moment of all time!

Marcel & Sam hard at work
Who were your faves?

Over the weekend, amid more holiday decorating and baking, I will be compiling my Top 5 Movies of 2008 list for fellow blogger Chris March's Scene & Heard. I also hope to post my own Worst Christmas Movie review, was hoping to get to it today, but didn't get a chance to watch it again last night ... it's absolutely awful, but in a good cheesy way!

Cheers!

This week’s Top Chef started out in the apartment shared by the Chestestants. The self-professed Dynamic Duo, Fabio and Stefan, were entertaining each other with witty banter while Stefan was carving a watermelon. A Bromance is definitely in the making between these two fan faves.

Hosea called his sister for an update on his father, who he let us all know had recently been diagnosed with cancer. She assured him all’s well and to keep pursuing his dream.

On to the Quick Fire Challenge: The task was to cook a holiday meal using only one pot. And, if that wasn’t overwhelming enough, the guest judge was none other than Martha Stewart! Wow, this show’s really getting some clout. There have been some interesting guests this season …
Eugene and Jamie opted for a stew; Stefan chose a veal Celtic ghoulash; Hosea went for paella; Melissa did pork and apples; Jeff made risotto with pork and potatoes; Karla chose a brined turkey breast; Ariane made a caulilflower puree with filet mignon, and Fabio cooked up mushroom polenta with duck breast.
After sampling all the dishes, Martha deemed Jeff, Eugene and Fabio most unworthy. While Hosea, Jamie and Ariane made the cut. Jamie was so ready to actually win a challenge, however, Martha was more impressed with Ariane. Ariane won immunity for the Elimination Challenge (and good thing she did). Seems Jamie’s always losing to Ariane.

For the Elimination Challenge the chefs were tasked to make hors d’ouevres for a Christmas themed AMFAR benefit (American Foundation for AIDS Research) in the Prince George Ballroom. They were given three hours to make enough treats for 250, including hostess and Tony award-winning actress Natasha Richardson. Guest just for this challenge was chef Michelle Bernstein.
Of course, there’s always a catch … and this one was each chef was given a line from the 12 Days of Christmas song and had to create their dish themed around it i.e. A Partridge in a Pair Tree, 5 Golden Rings, 3 French hens, etc.

"Once again, I picked a crappy theme," joked Fabio, who was unlucky enough to get 9 Ladies Dancing.

The rest were:
Hosea – 11 Pipers Piping
Jeff – 10 Lords a Leaping
Melissa – 8 Maids a Milking
Jamie – 7 Swans a Swimming
Ariane – 6 Geese a Laying
Eugene – 5 Golden Rings
Stefan – 4 Calling Birds
Leah – 3 French Hens
Carla – 2 Turtle Doves
Radhika – A Partridge in a Pair Tree

After shopping for ingedients, the chefs went to work in the Top Chef kitchen with Hosea smoking everyone out, while cooking his pork.

Unfortunately, the next morning when the chefs returned to complete and pack up their dishes, they found that someone had inadvertently left one of the massive refrigerator doors open and some food had spoiled. Specifically Radhika’s 40 ducks and Hosea’s 20 lbs. of pork, which left them at a severe deficit.
In the spirit of Christmas, all the chefs pulled together and helped their fellow contestants so everyone had a decent chance at the challenge. More pork was found and Radhika had saved the duck parts that she wasn’t using and made her dish with mostly leg meat.

All went well at the party, although some dishes were clearly not as well liked as others. Guests were all given red AIDS ribbons and asked to leave their ribbon at the table with their favorite dish. Despite losing his original pork, Hosea won the most ribbons and was the judges choice for best.

The bottom three were Eugene for his bad seveche, Melissa for her overpowering blue cheese and Jamie for her undercooked scallops.


Added just for fun!

Back in the waiting room, Chef Tom Colicchio stopped in to give the chefs a pep talk. Funny, how the last two seasons, the Top Chef judges kept saying that they didn’t think they could find contestants better than the season before, but they had.

Not the case this season. According to Colicchio, these folks just aren’t measuring up for a top cooking show like Top Chef. To cite an example Colicchio used Ariane’s 8 Geese/Laying dish, Deviled Eggs. "I mean, you’re never gonna win with deviled eggs," a clearly frustrated Colicchio stated. "You need to start making the dishes that got you here!"

After making his point, Colicchio let the group know that due to they’re banding together to help Hosea and Radhika and in the spirit of Christmas, no one was going home this week. All breathed a sigh of relief.

Up next (and I don’t think they mean next week, probably after the holidays), the chefs will face Gail’s replacement for the rest of the season, the obligatory snarky British judge Toby Young. And it’s clear by the preview that they’d prefer to have Gail back!

Just a quick reminder, amidst the Holiday Rerun Hell, there's an all new episode of Top Chef on Bravo tonight at 10 p.m.

This week the Cheftestants are catering a Holiday Party with special guest judge -- the Holiday Hostess from Hell -- Martha Stewart!!

Should be interesting ... stop back tomorrow for my recap!

OK, this isn't TV related, but it's so over the top I had to share.

Still searching for that elusive Christmas gift for the person who has everything? You absolutely can't go wrong with this one ...

Someone over at Mattel has clearly lost their mind and is making money off it. A Special Barbie Collector model has been tailored after Tippi Hendren's role in the 1963 Alfred Hitchcock thriller The Birds. Take a gander at this ...



What makes me think this would be the perfect gift for Tim Burton this season?

For $40 a pop, grown-up doll collectors can have their favorite blonde, packaged in a box and viciously pecked by birds. Hmmmm, I think I know what I'm getting the Elfman for Xmas this year ...

And he'll love it!

"The master of suspense, gave us a tale of terror not soon forgotten in his film 'The Birds'," according to Mattel's pitch.

"Dressed in a re-creation of the stylish green skirt-suit worn by the film's ill-fated heroine in an iconic scene, Alfred Hitchcock's 'The Birds' Barbie Doll celebrates the 45th anniversary of the acclaimed film."

Makers of the doll warn parents that this Barbie is "rated PG-13" (Wow a doll with an MPAA rating!) and might not be suited for every little girl in New York.

Look out Todd McFarlane, Mattel's cutting into your profits!

And Elfman, if you're looking for something for your fave blogger, I'll take a Twilight Edward Cullen action figure!



Merry Christmas Chochum!

In yet another bid to take over the world, Oprah Winfrey and her Harpo Productions announced yesterday a three-year deal to make movies, documentaries and TV series for HBO.



Just call it HBOprah!

Bad news for ABC, where Oprah has worked for 15 years, with her Oprah Winfrey Presents series focusing largely on movies positive or inspirational in tone. The most recent was an adaptation from a Mitch Albom book "For One More Day," about a drunk about to commit suicide who is saved by the ghost of his mother.

Another Winfrey production, "Their Eyes Were Watching God," starring Halle Berry, was the most-watched TV movie in 6 years at the time of its 2005 airing on ABC.

ABC reportedly wanted to extend their deal, but Harpo Films believed HBO was a better fit.

Maybe Miss O wants to try some more risque material. "There are natural limitations to being on network TV .. which HBO is not concerned with," said Harpo Films president Kate Forte.

The HBO deal has nothing to do with Winfrey's huge agreement with Discovery Communications for OWN -- the Oprah Winfrey Network -- that will debut next year, replacing the Discovery Health Network.

The woman is unstoppable! Maybe next year she'll try for something even bigger, like getting the next President of the United States elected -- oh right, she's already done that too!

Kudos to you Oprah -- may you continue to use your powers for good.

We have a "new" new No. 1 show! Although CSI returned to its No. 1 spot at the top of the Nielsen list this past week with over 20 million viewers tuning in to see Laurence Fishburn’s first episode, the previous week’s prime time ratings king was CBS’ new hit The Mentalist!

I’ve heard nothing but good things about this show from its beginning in October and I’ve always enjoyed looking at its star, Australian actor Simon Baker. However, I haven’t yet watched an episode. But with 19 million viewers now tuning in, I’ve decided to give it a shot tonight at 9 p.m.

Afterall, it’s the first new-season show in recent memory to land on the top of the charts – now that’s saying something!



The Mentalist stars Baker as Patrick Jane, an independent consultant with the California Bureau of Investigation (CBI), who has an incredible track record for solving serious crimes by using his intense skills of observation (a former con-man-turned-cop).

On tonight’s episode the evidence in a poisoning death points to Jane’s former shrink as a suspect.

For more information or to watch visit http://www.cbs.com/primetime/the_mentalist/

OK, sit back and relax, this is going to be a long post.
First off, if you missed it, you can watch here http://www.cbs.com/primetime/survivor/video/?season=13/

Last night on CBS, season 17 of Survivor reached its exciting conclusion. Survivor Gabon: Earth’s Last Eden did not go out quietly, just as most of the season was played. How entertaining it was …
The show started off 30 minutes late, thanks to the NFL, and picked up on Night 36, just after Crystal was blindsided at Tribal Council. Sugar bragged about how she can’t believe she’s that powerful, using her immunity idol to protect Matty. Kenny blasted Bob for not giving him the immunity necklace, saying he was not a man of his word. Bob decided that because Ken outed him in front of the jury at Tribal Council, all bets are off.

The next morning Sugar tells Bob she wants to take him to the Final 3 and they should get rid of Susie and Ken next. She plans to get close to Ken and reassures him that Susie’s the next to go. Ken’s convinced Sugar wants him in the Final 3. (Side note: I’m not a fan of this Final 3 thing; I think it’s much better to just have 2 going into the final.)

Ken goes for treemail and finds garments, beads and makeup with instructions for each to dress themselves as warriors for the next challenge.

The Immunity Challenge involves a maze with traditional Gabonese huts placed throughout. Each castaway must dig under a wall to get in, navigate over planks, get a bag of puzzle pieces from each hut and assemble a hut-shaped puzzle. Bob wins again – 5th straight time.

Back at the Nobag camp Matty tells Ken Susie’s going and then lies to Susie, who’s becoming increasingly paranoid. However, Sugar’s on the fence and can’t quite decide who to vote for. She wants to get rid of Susie, but feels that Ken’s such a liar, he could influence Bob and Matty against her.

At Tribal Council, Jeff points out Bob’s fifth consecutive win, calling him the biggest threat. Ken starts whining about Bob backing out of their immunity deal at the last council. Bob counters Ken’s attack by making the jury aware that Ken and Crystal were planning to vote Bob out when he gave up the immunity necklace. (Backatcha Ken!!)


Kenny, the 22-year-old pro-video gamer, is blindsided 4-1 and becomes the 14th player voted out of Gabon, ending the broadcast’s first hour.

And then there were four …

The next morning, Susie’s convinced she must win the next immunity challenge or she’s gone. Duh?

Susie
The Final 4 take a hike around Gabon, in Survivor’s traditional homage to all the players voted out this season. Each is shown in the order they were voted out and the Final 4 collect a mask for each player to be burned at the site of the final Immunity Challenge.

The House of Cards: This was a new one! For the final Immunity Challenge, survivors were given 200 wooden tiles and tasked to build a House of Cards 10-feet high (anybody else thinking of The Brady Bunch?). After 30 minutes, whoever has the tallest house wins. (I think if Bob doesn’t win, he’s gone.)

Sugar shows talent in card house-building, however once she hits about 6-feet, they keep tumbling down, forcing her to start over. Susie takes the lead, then hers falls. Matty’s having the same problem. Bob, however, can’t seem to get any higher than 3 feet.

After many attempts, Matty scrambles during the last minute to try to take Susie’s approximately 8-foot lead, but just can’t get there. Sugar’s house falls again, and Susie gets immunity, effectively ruining the others’ plan.


Sugar
Sugar cries (literally) to the camera that since Susie won they have no choice but to vote Bob off. Back at camp, Matty tells Bob of his fate. Bob’s resigned to it, realizing that the others wouldn’t stand much of a chance at winning if he’s in the Final 3, and everyone hugs (more tears). Matty, surprisingly, keeps hold of himself and doesn’t cry.

Later on, Sugar tells Bob she’s thought of a way out. What if she and Bob vote for Matty, causing a tie and forcing a tie-breaker challenge. Winner stays, loser goes.

(Hint: If you’re ever going to be on Survivor, practice building a fire with flint for God’s sake. Remember, that’s how Bobby John lost.)

At Tribal Council, Sugar, crying, calls Matty a brother and Bob a father figure (Sugar’s dad passed away recently). Bob chokes up, crediting his own deceased father for making him a good man. Host Jeff relentlessly hammers away at the castaways’ emotions – great TV! Even the jury’s getting into it.

Vote time:

Susie votes for Bob.

Matty votes for Bob.

Bob votes for Matty.

And, Sugar votes for Matty.

TIE!

Guess what happens next? Yep – a fire-making challenge. First one to build a fire that burns thru a thin rope wins.

Bob gets fire first, but it goes out. Matty’s scraping away furiously, but Bob gets his fire going again and voila – Bob wins.


Bye-Bye Matty.

The Final 3 are sent back to camp for their final night in Gabon. The next morning they pack up and burn their hut to the ground.

And it’s Jury Time!! This is gonna be great! Ken’s ready to make trouble. Randy’s still VERY angry, dislikes them all, is "ready to rip Bob a new one" and says it’s about one word – REVENGE!

Oh, and Corinne’s loaded for bear as well.

First off, the Final 3 each get to make their case as to why they deserve the million dollars.

Susie: went on Survivor to teach her son and students that it’s important "to try."

Bob: played with his heart, strategy was to use his personality and survival skills to make life better for everyone. Says he "didn’t Outwit or Outplay, just Outlasted" the rest.

Sugar: thinks she played the perfect social game. Admits lying for the game. No one wrote her name down (to vote out) and thinks she played "a pretty darned good game."

Jeff hands the show over to the seven Jurors.

Charlie doesn’t have anything interesting to say, jokes about spooning with Bob. Bob calls Charlie "a hoot."

Crystal accuses Susie of riding coat tails to get where she is, and says Bob was remote-controlled by Sugar (Bob says he was riding coat tails). She demands to know why Sugar got her voted out, to which Sugar replied that she didn’t like the way Crystal talked to people or her bullying. (I don’t think Crystal’s voting for Sugar … )

Ken says Sugar really scarred him and wants to know why. Sugar said she had an alliance with Bob and Matty and truly thought he was a bigger threat. Ken doesn’t believe her.
Then, here’s a surprise, he brings up that deal with Bob and the Immunity Necklace – again! Bob replies, when "I became aware of your assassination attempt on me, I voted for you."

Corinne (worth the wait) goes after Susie first, guaranteeing her a vote if Susie will agree to have her vocal cords removed. Oh Snap!!
Then she asks Bob to make her believe he doesn’t like Sugar. He can’t.
But she saves her best for last attacking Sugar, calling her an "unemployed, uneducated leech on society" who needs antidepressants and, if that’s not bad enough, brings up her dead father, "if he even is" …. Hello – can you say be-otch?

Sugar gives Corinne the finger as she sits back down.

Marcus, unfortunately, had to follow that and didn’t really contribute much.


Next up is Randy, the Gary Busey of Gabon. Randy starts small and asks Susie to explain why she said she felt sorry for him.
Then he goes after Sugar, referring to her laughing at Tribal Council and making a jackass of him. To which Sugar replied, "I think you made a jackass of yourself." (POW!). "Is that your answer for a million dollars?" Randy retorts.
To Bob, he asks same question about the laughter at Randy’s last Tribal Council. "I didn’t mean to embarrass you. I apologize and I did tell Sugar about it," Bob sincerely replied. (I think Bob’s getting Randy’s vote.)

Matty asks Sugar to name one thing she did that was evil. "I broke Kenny’s heart, I’m sorry," she replied. Kenny roles his eyes. Then he asks Bob why Bob thinks the other two are more deserving. "I don’t think they are," Bob replied.

During the vote, Randy says loudly that "All three of you can kiss my ass." (I’m gonna miss Randy.)

Jeff takes votes and leaves, re-emerging magically at the start of the Reunion Show. Here’s how it went …

Vote 1 – Bob

Vote 2 – Susie

Vote 3 – Susie

Vote 4 – Sue (I’m freaking out at this point, thinking Susie may actually win!)

Vote 5 – Bob

Vote 6 – Bob

Vote 7 – Bob

BOB WINS! Yay! Justice! At 57, Jeff points out, Bob is the oldest winner in the history of the game.



During the reunion show we find out that had Matty made it to the Final 3, five jurors would have voted for him, thereby making the fire challenge a million dollar challenge. This is where Jeff stresses the importance of learning to build a fire if you’re ever cast on Survivor!

Jeff also announces that Randy was the deciding vote and asks why Randy picked Bob over Susie. Randy replied sarcastically, "that cookie didn’t matter much," referring to the food auction where Sugar snubbed Randy’s offer of a cookie, and I’m not sure what reference that was to Susie. But it turns out, it was a million dollar cookie as well.

We later find out that Randy’s not only got the second highest IQ of all the players (physician Marcus was highest), but he’s also a commercial pilot (think about that next time you fly), participated in Iron Man competitions and has an engineering degree. A self-described "bitter man," Randy brought six strangers to the reunion just because they were fans of the show. He applied for Survivor 15 times, and is currently a wedding videographer.

Then it was Corinne’s turn. Jeff called her comments to Sugar at Tribal Council "the worst thing ever said on the show" (Jeff, remember Sue Hawk?). To which Corinne replied, "I guess I just had a lot of anger," as the audience collectively booed her.

On the opposite end, Jeff called Charlie one of the nicest guys ever on Survivor. Crystal actually brought her gold medal to prove she is an Olympic medalist. She said the challenges were a lot harded than she expected, and her friends have been harassing her about her lack of performance on the show, saying "Crystal you suck."

Ace tried to clear up the origins of his faux British accent, saying he was born in Mississippi and raised in London (which didn’t really clean anything up at all).

And Matty’s still engaged.


The Cast of Survivor Gabon: Earth's Last Eden

Bob won an additional $100,000 from Verizon for being voted fan favorite online.

The show ended with a preview of Season 18 – Survivor Tocatinis in the Brazilian Highlands.

See you in Feburary!

OK, I know it's only December 14, but this is by far the Video of the Year. I only saw it about four hours ago, but I can't get enough of it!

Enjoy!

Sorry, my browser won't let me embed, so click on it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfYBGl9q30c


BTW how pissed is this guy?

And the job of hosting The 81st Annual Academy Awards goes to ....


The Sexiest Man Alive! While watching the Soup this weekend, I almost fell off the couch when I saw scrolling at the bottom of the TV screen that Hugh Jackman was asked to host the Oscars next year (and accepted)!



Whahoooo! After a pretty dismal year at the movies ... this actually gives me something to look forward to! And I'm speaking generally, of course. Yes, I loved Iron Man and The Dark Knight. I enjoyed Cloverfield, Twilight, Sex and the City, Saw V, The Ruins and The X-Files. But overall, not an exciting year.

And though The Dark Knight actually might have a shot at a Best Picture nomination, we all know it doesn't have much chance of actually winning. And since most of the movies that will get nominated aren't even out yet -- there's not much to get excited about.

But Hugh Jackman!!! That's excitement worthy! I don't care how bad Australia was (I've heard, haven't actually seen it yet), I'm sure he'll be able to keep us entertained for the requisite 3 1/2 to 4 hours the Academy lumbers thru. That sexy Australian accent alone could get me thru the show.

Afterall, this is the man who brought us to Broadway in droves to see him star as gay icon Peter Allen in The Boy From Oz.



He was so popular in the show indeed, that it had to close when his extended run ended because they literally couldn't find anyone who could compare!

Good Luck Hugh -- I'll be watching!

The 81st Annual Academy Awards airs live on ABC at 8 p.m. Feb. 22. Nominations will be announced live at 8:30 a.m. Jan. 22 on E! and network morning shows.

For Bo 2 and others who've asked -- The Golden Globe Awards will be presented live on NBC from the Beverly Hills Hilton at 8 p.m. on Jan. 11. Sorry, should have put that in last week's post.

OK, I'm a little late in posting this, but hey, it's the weekend, and I'm currently up to my ears in Xmas decorations, trying to finish up before tonight's Survivor finale!

Summit Entertainment made it official on Friday that Chris Weitz is indeed directing Twilight's anticipated sequel New Moon (which means he'll be on his way to Vancouver at this very moment to begin preproduction). In an effort to calm fans, the following was emailed to those registered at www.TwilightTheMovie.com

Subject: Message from Chris Weitz

Dear fans of Twilight, New Moon, Bella, Edward and Jacob,

In the past few days I have been involved in a whirlwind romance with Stephenie Meyers' extraordinary books.

And I am very grateful to have received her permission to protect New Moon in its translation from the page to the screen.

For fans of the books and of the film of Twilight, this may come as an unexpected twist. So I want to write briefly to try to put you at ease, and to give you reason to hope for and expect the best.

For the last decade of my career as a director, I have chosen to make adaptations of complex and involved works of literature. This has always begun with the love of a book and its characters, story, and theme; and it has always involved a respect of and responsiveness to the feelings of other people who loved those books.

When I saw the film of Twilight, I was alternately entranced and left hungry for more. I was also struck by the extraordinary passion for the characters, story and theme that was evident in the people sitting in the seats around me. My job is to live up to that devotion.

Like many of you, I am a fan of Catherine Hardwicke's work. I can't really say much about why she is not doing New Moon because I wasn't involved in those decisions. But I can say that I will devote myself to making the very best and most faithful version of New Moon that can be brought to the screen. To those who doubt that as a male director I can capture Bella's experience, I can only say that emotion is universal and that my work has often involved working with some of the most talented actresses in the world.

For the rest, the proof will have to be in the pudding. But I promise to remain responsive to your hopes and fears.

I thank you for this opportunity and for your faith.

Very best, Chris Weitz



OK, sounds sincere, let's give him a chance. While I wasn't a fan of The Golden Compass, I absolutely loved About A Boy ...

As promised, here's a little early Xmas present for all of you, a guest blog from the Elfman!
Enjoy



Santa Claus Conquers The Martians
Reviewed by the Elfman

"Something is happening to the children of Mars"
Yes the Red Planet is in a state of panic as Martian Children become increasingly despondent, watching meaningless videos telecast from Earth. Their children are growing up way too fast and must recapture their youth.
Solution: "We Need a Santa Claus on Mars"
Yes, "Santa Claus Conquers The Martians" is hands down the worse holiday movie ever and possibly one of the worst movies of all time. Yet this 1964 film from Joseph E. Levine was a box office smash and even sparked the hit tune "Hooray for Santy Claus."
The chorus gleefully proclaims: You spell it S-A-N-T-A C-L-A-U-S, Hooray for Santy Clause.(Were they worried that kids would be confused by the spelling?)
The plot of the movie revolves around a group of Martian leaders including the good Kimar and evil Volgar and their journey to earth where they kidnap St. Nick and two earth children who can't act their way out of a Christmas stocking.
Santa played by John Hall isn't much better and expresses joy with more of a drunken snarl than a jolly belly laugh.
Things really heat up when the Martians invade the North Pole and muscle Santa out of his workshop to the horror of all 3 of his elves.
"We Don't Want To Hurt You Santa Claus, So Come Along Quietly."
The film for the most part is a real treat for bad movie lovers of all ages.
However you might want to fast forward through seemingly endless Air Force stock footage when they are alerted of the invasion.
Classic dialogue includes a scene between Kimar and wife Lady Momar as they discuss their children's peril. (one of them played by a young Pia Zadora)
"They Eat Not, They Sleep Not"
"I Had To Use The Sleep Spray On Them Again"
But my favorite scene is when a group of Martian elite summon an 800-year-old wise man from the planet named Chochum(?). This guy is clearly dead, he just won't lay down.
Chochum advises them that "Children Need To Be Children Again" and "I've Seen This Coming For Centuries." (Then why didn't he tell anybody?)
Hopefully Martian paramedics are standing by because Chochum isn't likely to make 801.
If you love bad movies like I do this is a must for the holidays.
The Elfman has Spoken.

Thanks Elfman! For those of you curious enough, you can watch Santa Claus Conquers the Martians on Google Video. Follow this link
http://video.google.com/videosearch?q=santa+claus+matians&emb=0&aq=f#

Before I get into last night’s awesome episode of Survivor: Gabon, I just want to give a short shout-out. I was perusing the list of Golden Globe nominations last night and LOL when I realized that up for Best Supporting Actor in a Film, along with the late Heath Ledger, are Robert Downey Jr. and Tom Cruise for their hilarious turns in Tropic Thunder!

Yes, that's Robert
Downey Jr.!
While I will be shocked if either wins over Ledger, it’s nice to see both recognized for taking what would normally be considered slapstick comedy characters into award-winning territory!
Downey Jr. famously plays an Australian actor who undergoes a controversial skin pigmentation process to play an African American sergeant. And Cruise (heavily made up in skull cap and fat suit) plays a firey studio boss very reminiscent of Harvey Weinstein.

And yes, that's
Tom Cruise between takes


If you haven’t seen Tropic Thunder yet, do yourself a favor and rent it this weekend. I highly recommend it.



OK, on to Survivor: As stated above, what an awesome episode it was!! The one I’ve been waiting for all season, but I don’t want to get ahead of myself. If you haven’t watched it yet, stop reading and go watch it here http://www.cbs.com/primetime/survivor/

We start out on Night 33 with Matty confronting Kenny, demanding to know why Kenny wrote his name on the ballot to be voted out. Kenny tries to defend himself saying that Bob lied to him, and it was all strategic. Matty’s not buying it. Ken and Crystal decide that Matty’s next to go.
Ken confronts Bob demanding to know why Corinne didn’t play the immunity idol at Tribal Council (the idol is fake, remember?), saying he put his neck on the line. Bob tells him the idol was fake, to which Ken replies that Bob played him. Bob feels bad and tells Ken that if he wins the Immunity necklace, he will give it to Ken (WTH is he thinking?).

Bob
The Reward Challenge offers the opportunity for the winner to take a helicopter ride to a gorilla sanctuary for food, drinks and a shower … oh and a chance to see gorillas up close. The first to get 3 balls in the basket wins, and also gets to send someone to Exile Island.
Despite Matty’s lead and best efforts, Bob wins again! Of course, we know they won’t make him go alone, and Jeff tells him to pick two people to go along. Bob strategically picks Ken and Crystal, and opts to send Susie to Exile.

Susie, knowing Sugar has the immunity idol, chooses to stay in the Sugar Shack and load up on fruit.

At the sanctuary, Bob, Ken and Crystal enjoy lunch and drinks, and the scheming duo tell Bob that Matty’s next. Then they all take a shower (separately folks, this is prime time afterall), don dashikis, meet with the gorilla rangers and go see gorillas. Crystal is grateful for the "African experience."

Sugar
Back at camp, Matty tries to get Sugar to vote off Kenny. She’s not buying it. Matty realizes he’s on his own and if he doesn’t win immunity, he’s gone.
When everyone gets back, Matty argues with Ken over their fallen alliance. Crystal chimes in, verbally attacking Matty over his friendship with Susie. Crystal tells the camera in a side monologue, "Matty, Karma’s a bitch!"
Sugar, watching what’s going on, has a change of heart. She doesn’t like the fact that Ken and Crystal are hassling Matty when they’ve already decided that he’s next. Essentially, she sees them as kicking Matty when he’s down and starts believing what Matty told her about Ken’s scheming (remember Ken convinced Sugar to vote out her bud Ace) and Crystal’s bullying.
Sugar gets Matty along and tells him she believes him. She also says he’s not going to go home – the tide is turning … finally!
Sugar tells Matty that Crystal is going next, and she’ll tell Bob to vote for her! (Yes, I’ve wanted Crystal gone for a looooong time. She so has it coming!)

Susie
The Immunity Challenge had contestants crawling through a maze to put together pieces of a mask – blindfolded! Crysal goes completely off course, and Susie gets lost, wandering away from the maze. Matty decides to get all three bags with the puzzle pieces first, while the others work one bag at a time.
Bob wins again! That’s four challenges in a row for the 57-year-old. Go Bob!

Before Tribal Council, Sugar confesses to Bob she wants to be with the "good guys" and suggests taking out Crystal. She also tells Bob she has a really big place in her heart for him. Bob hopes she’s being truthful.
Sugar then goes back to camp and lies to everyone else, saying she thinks Bob might be willing to give the necklace to Ken. Ken’s somewhat relieved.

This is gonna be great!!

Tribal Council: When the jury entered, one thing went thru my mind – WTH happened to Randy’s hair – Dude got a mohawk!! He’s certifiable … I’m counting on crazy Randy making the finale’s jury question session worthy of the build-up (who remember’s Sue Hawk’s famous verbal thrashing of Kelly Wigglesworth in season one? … oh the humanity!)

Anyway, at Tribal Ken takes the opportunity to out Bob over their pact. Bob refuses to give Ken the necklace, saying he doesn’t believe Ken’s in danger. Ken’s sweating …

Ken
Sugar is blatantly wearing the hidden Immunity Idol, and Jeff says that it is the last opportunity for it to be put into play, if indeed it is the real idol. To which Bob replies, "I didn’t make that one!" and gets a nasty glare from Randy (who, if you remember, played Bob’s fake idol and was humiliated).

After the vote, it’s make or break time for the hidden idol. Jeff calls for anyone who has the idol that it is time to play it before the votes are read and ….. wait for it ……

Sugar takes off the idol and says, "Matty take the cursed thing away from me!" giving the idol’s protection to Matty and cancelling any votes for him. Ken’s really sweating now!

Matty

First vote, Matty, doesn’t count.

Second vote, Matty, doesn’t count.

Third vote, Crystal.

Fourth vote Crystal – she looks at Ken, he looks at her, raising eyebrows in a "tough sh-t"
kinda way.

Fifth vote, "and the 13th person voted out of Survivor Gabon is" --- CRYSTAL!!!

Crystal

The tribe has spoken – and the jury nods in agreement. You were right Crystal – Karma’s a bitch!

And then there were five:
Bob, the physics professor whose the biggest threat.
Susie, whose flown under the radar.
Sugar, the sweetheart of the game.
Ken, the professional gamer, who wickedly schemed his way to the final.
And Matty, the physical threat – just don’t make him cry.

So here we go --- Sunday night at 8 p.m. on CBS it all ends on the Survivor: Gabon Finale, followed by the Reunion Show at 10 p.m. Don’t miss it, if it’s anything like the last couple of episodes, it should be pretty exciting!
For info visit http://www.cbs.com/primetime/survivor/