Yeah, that's right, they did it before!

What up now, Marvel?

Marvel's Daring New Plan: MAKE NOTHING BUT CRAP!

That's right folks. You've heard correctly. Captain America, the sentinel of liberty, the only character of Marvel Comics who can truly be called iconic, is dead.

Branching out of the civil war mini-series (mind you, this is the same brain-child that spawned the new "No-secret identity" spider-man), Cap is assassinated after surrendering at the end of civil war.

As Cap's mask was seen being picked up by The Punisher, marvel will probably replace the former symbol of patriotism and honor with the serial killer.

While this is sure to boost sales, let me point out that this is once again rehashing a story already done, when the Punisher became Captain America in an issue of "What If?"


While I'm sure Marvel may just bring Cap back someday, I'm truly disgusted by the continual practice of marvel saying "hey, no one will expect us doing this" and then basing a story off shock value. And besides, we all know how that strategy went over for Bin Laden.

HO. LY. CRAP!

I've been watching previews all morning, and I just watched Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer, and WOW.

I'm a long time fan of classic marvel, and The FF meeting the Surfer is about as classic as it gets. I was terrified that they were going to screw it up, but after that preview....
WOW.

Watch it here:
http://www.apple.com/trailers/fox/fantasticfourriseofthesilversurfer/medium.html

My 80's Obsession

While more and more the 80's are becoming a thing of the ancient past, I grew up in them, so I remember a lot of fads that at their beginning or their prime. Speaking of Prime, I just saw the new Transformers preview, and let me say, the 80's never looked so good. In fact, I believe I may have just soiled myself.

I like the whole idea of the 80's coming back, as long as it's done well. There's a new turtle movie coming out, transformers on the way, and even (God help us) a Smurf CGI trilogy in the works.

You know, as long as they leave "My Little Pony" out of the mix, I think I'm happy.

And speaking of my little pony- watch the Transformers preview. The best part may be a small girl holding a my little pony as she watches one of the robots climb out of her pool. Priceless.

PS- just re-watched the trailer (again)- and yes, I need to go change my underwear.

Requested Photo of "Mountian Man Mike"

My beard.

Reclaiming Christmas

When I was a kid, my very dysfunctional family had only one real Christmas tradition, and even this nearly went by the wayside toward the end (for the uninformed, my parents, all of them, are divorced- but believe me, it was time). My mother started it (she was usually the genius behind most of the cool things we did as a family). Every year of our lives, starting with the first one, my mother would buy us a Christmas ornament. Now, I know that this tradition merely helped further the aims of the commercialism masterminds behind replacing Christ with Santa. But yet, every year we looked forward to getting our new ornaments. When it came time to put up the tree, we would pull out all the ornaments, and my parents would go down the line and give us our ornaments in order. We kids would then fight for the best spots on the tree in our eagerness to have our ornaments be the center of attention. It was a simple thing, but it was also magical. It kept Christmas special, and for that one hour every year, my family was able to get along without the help of a tv or movie.

Eventually the new ornaments stopped appearing every year, and as my parents stopped caring about more and more, christmas became one of things that they would procrastinate or nearly forget about (don't get me wrong, there were presents and decorations, but often it took one of us kids to get them wrapped in time). But the tree was the one thing we kids fought to keep. And so, when my parents finally called it quits, the one thing I really regretted was that all of our ornaments would never hang on the same tree again.

And so, a few years later, as my wife and I began to create our own traditions, I explained to her how much that one tradition meant to me. Overwhelmed by my charm and wit, my wonderful wife of course agreed to adopt the ornament tradition. I was excited. In my own way, I would be able to preserve and perpetuate one of the few good things I remember and pass it on to my children.

In eagerness I called my Dad to look into how I could get my old ornaments. When I hung up the phone, I was devastated. As it turned out, my Dad had ended up with the ornaments after the divorce, and had stored them in an old van he kept in an extra parking spot in his apartment complex, and the van was stolen, along with everything inside, shortly after he moved in.

And so, it seemed that the magic had finally worn out. After years of poor communication, bad memories, family tragedies and poor decisions, it seemed that someone looking for an easy buck finally destroyed what we as a family never could.

Once again I talked with my wife, and once again she reassured me. While we couldn't fix all the wrongs in our lives, we could fix this.

A quick trip to eBay, and the rest, as they say, is history. While I have not found all the ornaments yet, I have reclaimed my first seven ornaments, as well as one of my brother's first ornaments. I'd like to think I'm buying the ones that were stolen, but I know that it's unlikely.

Then the questions comes- why bother? Why not just start anew and continue from there? Well, because sometime we shouldn't have to start anew. I think that we should fight to hold onto the things that keep magic alive in our hearts. Often we give up to easily and let things go when, with a little effort, we could have preserved them.

Christmas is a time of magic, of memories, and of undying love. If we can't extend a little hope and resolve to hold on to those things, then Christmas itself could also become meaningless.

The pain of bad memories will eventually fade if we allow them to. Sadly, so do good memories. And yet, most people choose to hold on to the bad and forget the good. We need allow ourselves to forgive and forget the bad and evil in our lives- in a word, get over it. It's not easy, and it doesn't happen over night, but you can do it. And fighting to hold onto the good will help in the process.

My feelings on the "Console Wars" (It's Not as Bad as it Looks)

My Top Ten Entertainment Surprises

I was rather shocked this year by just how many things of quality snuck up and bit me . there were really some wonderful films and shows I found this years, and I'm happy to share them with you. Also, you may be surprised that Superman returns is not on the list. the reason for this is very simple. I wasn't surprised by the quality of the film. While amazing, I knew it would be.

10. Veronica Mars- I must say I was incredibly lucky to find this show when I did. I started just weeks before season 3 premiered and I was lucky to be able to finish in time for the new season. Smart, funny and incredibly well cast and written, it's really a must see.

9. Robot Chicken- It's been around for awhile, but I just found this show and it's brilliant. Though sometimes blasphemous and often politically incorrect, the show uses toys to make fun of anything from the 80's to George Bush. My favorite clip has to be a Kill Bill rip off entitled Kill Bunny featuring a ticked off Christ hunting down such commercial distractions as the Easter Bunny and Santa. While I'm sure many will be insulted by it, I've included the You-Tube clip of it below. Admittedly it is much funnier if you've seen Kill Bill. Anyway, this show rocks. Check it out.


8. The Lake House- I know, I know, I don't know what came over me, but I did in fact watch this movie. With my Dad even. But it was great. Sincere and moving, it's a great love story. While a little unoriginal, the end still comes as a surprise (well, part of the end at least; there is a twist, I won't lie, and it's really incredibly easy to spot the clues at the beginning of the movie, but it makes up for it).

7. Jericho- Who knew that the story of a town trying to survive Armageddon could be so heartfelt and captivating? while it is a serial show going week to week, it's fun and, most importantly, planned out. I can't wait to see how long the walls of Jericho will stand.

6. Infinite Crisis- WOW. DC has managed to pull me in a hold me close. With a huge storyline and real, continuity altering events, new comic day has never been more fun. How they'll top it I have no clue, but all I know is that even if all i got was that single ride, it was enough.

5. Heroes- yeah, I'm just as addicted as everyone else. It's amazing- the dawn of superheroes just as it might have been in the golden age of comics. And don't even get me started on the new story arc- remember, "Save the cheerleader, save the World."

4. Cars- I'll admit it, when I saw the previews I thought Pixar had finally gone too far... but when I saw the movie I was impressed. Not only is the animation top notch, but the story was a great homage to the way the world should really be.

3. Clerks II- I was not going to see this movie. It looked foul, stupid, and I was rather upset with Kevin Smith for giving up and going back to the basics. but the movie reddemed itself with a great moral about doing what you want with your life, no matter what the world may think.

2. Brick- This movie is great. A down and dirty 30's detective film noir set in modern day high school, this movie rocks. With an amazing script and a perfect cast, this movie manages to be something that its very nature makes nearly impossible- it's something NEW. For those who are unfamiliar, the trailer is below. And for the record, while the movie is rated "R," I can honestly say that the movie did not deserve that rating. As most film buffs know, Indy films are always rated on a curve and given the higher rating (translation- no sex, no swearing- at all- no violence other than fist fights and while there is mention of drug use none is shown; for the first time there is a clean movie for adults).


1. Stranger than Fiction- let me just say how much I hate Will Farrell. I never knew before, however, how well he could act. this movie is a work of art. Genuinely funny and moving, the movie does not resort to crude humor or sappy emotions to bring home it's point. Emma Thompson and Dustin Hoffman really bring it to the table, and Farrell shows that he can walk with the big boys. A brilliant concept, the movie is about a man who starts hearing his life being narrated. He soon realizes that he is a character in a story, and before his story ends he must find the author in order to save his own life. At the sake of making a huge leap from never having videos to having THREE, trailer is found below.

Slander Campaigns and Me

Call me strange, but I don't buy into slander campaigns. While others sit there laughing at the Mac kid making fun of the IBM guy, I merely shake my head. as other stare on in awe of the subway weight loss dude, I ponder the tragedy of selling your soul to fast food in order to battle obesity.
And when one politician bad mouths another, I see that as one more mark against the accusing party. I guess I just don't get the whole slander thing.

When I see one party attacking another, I see it as evidence that the opposition is better, and the accuser knows it. I also am more inclined to side with the accused. When it comes to slander campaigns, I'm the ultimate sypathy vote. While the MAC commercials are amusing, they are the reason why I'll stay with a IBM. While Subway may be the more healthy route (if you get the sandwiches just so) Ithink I'd rather go to one of those "fatty" Restaurants. And when election season comes around, i think i'll vote for the one with the least amount of slander ads.

In the end, I want to do business with a company that has ethics, or at least a little integrity. And when one company tries to insult another inorder to try and get my business, all that they really gain is a spot on my "do not shop" list.

My First Gray Hair (well, white hair)

I've recently grown out my beard to celebrate my liberation from college. BYU-I frowns upon any form of personal and independent expression or thought. So, I took on myself to make up for the years of following the standard by throwing away my contacts, going back to glasses, and growing one heck of a cool goatee. I've been wanting to do it for years, and I figured I was too old to dye my hair purple, so I might as well go for it.

So, as I was grooming my beard today (a necessary but not completely unentertaining part of having a beard) I discovered an imposter among the usual red and brown hairs- a white one. As it was alone and friendless (at least for now) I gladly cut the weirdo and tried to forget it. After all, I'm only 27. But my next impulse was too call everyone I knew that was older than me for the sole purpose of making them feel older. I figured, "hey, why keep this depressing feeling of years flying by to myself?" So, I've decided to be charitable and share it around.

Enjoy!

When Good Authors Go Bad

I recently realized that I don't read as often as I used to. This is sad, but true. I love to read and gain a lot from it. But as a consequence of my non-reading, by spelling, vocabulary, and grammar have all sufferred. I think reading is essential for keeping up with language skills. And once too often lately, I've been having to reach for a dictionary. So, I decided to end this phase of my life with a trip to the library.

While I like trying new things, I did gravitate back towards familiar authors; I figured that I might as well start in safe territory. And so I picked up the next chapter of a Peirs Anthony series I had read on and off, 'Incarnations of Immortality." I also stumbled across the Clive Barker section (best know for the 'Hellraiser" series) and decided to check something out (I LOVE LOVE LOVE "Theif of Always"), So I grabbed "The Great and Secret Show." And, being a Redwall Nut, I grabbed the next in a growing list of novels in the series I haven't read yet.

I had also grabbed some other books, but these three were the ones I was most excited about. So I pull out the "secret Show" and begin to read. It sounded awesome. A serect art, magic (Maybe) a secret language being spread across the country through dead mail, it was great. Then, to my astonishment, I came across a LDS character in the book. Being LDS myself I was pretty intrigued, until I found that the leader of the local "Mormon Group" in the book was a man called pastor John. And the facts just went downhill from there. While I was interested in the story, after awhile the incorrect facts about the church became to glaring, to huge for me to keep reading. It's sad, I had over a hundred pages invested, but I finally had to throw the book down and move on.

The next book of "Incarnations" was about the same. while the first book, "On a Pale Horse," was awesome, the follwing books just started to fall short. The series itself is a cool concept (human beings filling in for deitys, such as death and mother earth and father time) but the only real book to pull it off is the first one. And, so, sadly, I put the fifth book, "Weilding a Red Sword "(about mars the god of war) aside as well. I'm disapointed, but it is by Peirs Anthony, and one wonders about the quality of writing one is able to achieve when they pump out 5 books a year.

The Redwall book, as always, has been a delight, and i look forward to catching up. I also picked up a trade paperback of "Midnight Nation" by the author of Babylon 5, and I must say I was really impressed.

It's really frustrating to me when I find a book or author that I like, and then the follow up work isn't on par. It doesn't seem hard to me to just do the first thing over again. Brian Jauqes does it all the time with Redwall. While variety may be the spice of life, every once in awhile it gives me heartburn.

And so, I will be going back to the library a little disapointed. While I like series, it's getting harder to find ones worth my time. I guess I'll just limit myself to the kids section. It seems that they, at least, have standards.

"Loonatics," propaganda, and other TV wonders

Do the images to the left look familiar? Take a closer look. Yep, they're the Loony Toons, jazzed up and given the "Batman Beyond" treatment. Complete with powers, secret base, toy ready vehicles and a futuristic city to protect, these aren't the Loony Toons I remember, nor are they the Toons my little brother remembers from "Space Jam" either.
Following my last blog I did indeed get a cable hook-up (I am now media compatible, now boasting a whopping 15 channels). and I've noticed some odd things in my absence from TV, the "Loonatics Unleashed" not being the least of them. Now, don't get me wrong, I have no real problems with the new Loony Toons, but I was surprised at the reinvention.
There are alot of things that I find surprising with TV currently, especially the commercials. In a history class I took a couple years ago, we were shown some propaganda films that were made during WWII to gain the public's support for the war. These films inc;uded several stretches of the truth and many manipulative phrases that would inspire hate against the nations "enemies," in some ways creating enemies where there were none. Current political commercials are very much the same. I've been troubled by the recent commercials (sponsered by pres. Bush) that hate filled words and images to paint the picture of a world that we can't face without our current government. It frightens me becuase I wonder what the next step is, and if anything it makes me distrustful of a leader that needs to manipulate my emotions in order to garner my support.
Aside from the few scares and surprises, I have been delighted with some of our TV discoveries- Heroes is an interesting new show; I can't wait to see what happens next. Jerihco is also worth a look. Rarely has a show been so genuine and real. Veronica Mars is as smart as ever, and Lost is just as puzziling and infuriating as I was afraid it would be. Smallville is staying fun, thoug, with the introduction of Green Arrow and the first use of "Super breath," I'm getting stoked for the rest of the year.

The Duplicity of "High School Musical"

When I first saw this movie for sale, I had no idea what it was. I marveled because everyone grabbed it up as if they already knew what it was, while I sat there scratching my head. I have no idea how the DVD sales were in other parts of the country, but here in Rexburg, Id, it sold like hotcakes. It wasn't until later that I learned that the movie was a Disney channel special, which explained why people knew about it.

Still, even after learning some of the back story, I still didn't want anything to do with the movie, mostly because of the type of people who watched here- the stuck up college students who seem determined to make sure that the stereotypical groupings that existed in high school stay true even in college. I don't care much for cliques, nor do I like people (especially other members of my religion) that look down on people of different backgrounds, beliefs, or principles.

Imagine my surprise when I finally watched the movie (suggestion of a friend) and discovered that the whole moral of "High School Musical" is the breaking of such clichés. I was surprised because the movie had a great moral, and it was somewhat enjoyable. But then I realized that the same people that have been buying the show and extolling its virtues are the same people who need to hear the lesson it teaches. Unfortunately, they've probably all missed it completely.

The movie speaks out against those who refuse try anything new, as well as those who make fun of anyone who does. Yet constantly I meet people here in Rexburg who refuse to think outside the box, who refuse to accept anything different from the norm.

And so, I wonder how in the world the people here LOVE this movie when obviously they don't agree with the lesson- and if they do, they refuse to accept it. The sad part is, the popularity of this movie is probably a direct result OF its popularity- meaning that people like because other people like it, not for its own merit. It's pathetic.

It's sad to think that a movie aimed to bring people together would be used as yet another tool by those who benefit by keeping them apart- in other words, to keep the status quo.

My New Crush- Why I love Veronica Mars (yes, I mean the show)

TV and I parted company a while ago. I know this may come as a shock- but I don't have cable- nor do I recieve any TV signals in my apartment. And while there is a mild sense of disconnection and solitude that comes with this (not to mention the growing trend of not understanding what anyone is talking about), for the most part I have no real regrets. It saves us money, and gives us the option of doing other things instead of watching TV all day long (instead, we watch movies).

Anyway, the truth is there isn't much I really want to watch. When Buffy came to an end, TV began this down spiral that it it still trying to recover from. Soon afterward Angel was canceled, as was the magnificent Firefly. Other shows came and went in quality as well- CSI, while fun, held no real claim on my heart, and I found most TV comedies stupid and crass. Smallville still held some sway, but I knew in my heart that as soon as it became truly good it would be cancelled. And so, I said goodbye to television. With good shows continually being cancelled in order for to make room for new reality shows, I decided that I had had enough.

And then came the advent of TV on DVD, as well as video stores willing to rent them. And so, every so often, the wife and I will try a show and either like it or loath it. We've tried many- 24 didn't really capture our attention after the first season; the first season of Prison Break held us captive for a week before being assigned to the "stupid shows that will string me on forever " category; Scrubs became a favorite until the main character became a jerk; and we kept up on Smallville until we decided to just buy it.

But none of these really convinced us that we needed cable. Yeah, Smallville was still running, but for how long? Everything would be out on DVD eventually anyway, right?

And then came Lost. Perhaps the best show that any of the core networks has had in years, it made us want to see what happened next. And while Lost is cool, it's crazy addictive- so much so that after awhile you just need a break- you just honestly don't want to watch it anymore after awhile unless you know they're going to tell you what you want to know (which has yet to happen- of all the mysteries introduced on the show, only one has been answered, and even then only vaguely. And while addictive shows are fun, I missed the fun of a show that was intriguing while still being forthcoming. Honestly, the only reason Lost is so addictive is because they never reveal the secrets. I was beginning to think that good, fun, and honest shows had ceased to exist.

This is a long intro, I know, but bear with me, I'm almost to my point. And so, other than the occasional show that held my interest, for the most part I had given up on TV. And while I heard about good shows every now and then, I also heard about new reality shows I wanted to avoid. Some things warmed my heart (the end of the WB- that's what they get for ending Angel) while others scared me (Survivor- race wars). And then I began hearing about a show called Veronica Mars. I didn't hear much, other than the main actress was cute and that the show was reminiscent of Buffy. And then I heard that not only did Joss Whedon (creator of Buffy, Angel, and Firefly) like the show, but he described as "the show I wish I had made." I thought it was maybe worth a peak, but promptly forgot about it.

Then, one night during a really late trip to a 24 hr Walmart, I found Veronica Mars, season 1, for $20 dollars.

Rarely have I been so happy with a twenty dollar purchase. This show is fantastic. With the most believable high school since Buffy and a killer cast, Veronica keeps you entertained and curious, even involved, without resorting to the guerilla tactics used by such shows as Lost and Prison Break. The show is also somehow able, impossible as it sounds, to have stand alone episodes WHILE STILL CARRYING THE PLOT FROM ONE EPISODE TO ANOTHER! The characters are smart, funny, and completely believable. Even so called "bad guys" become beloved and even likeable characters.

The show is about a girl named Veronica Mars, a teen detective that works at her Dad's private detective agency. Shocked by the murder of her best friend, Veronica is determined to solve her friends murder, with or without the help of her fellow students who have alienated Veronica since her friend's death. And while the show deals with high school students and teenagers, it does it without the inherent drama of make ups and break ups. The real drama lies in the cases that are solved every week. The best part of the show, though, has to be the honesty of the show- the major mystery of the first season is solved by the final episode, leaving only two minor strings that lead into the second season- if you want them to. No crazy addiction or withdrawal's here- the shows ends in a way respectful to the viewers, as if to say "don't worry, we're looking out for you- here's the answers you were wanting, along with an invitation to watch next year if you like. Thanks for your time." And you know what? I LIKE that.

So, if you need a show to watch this year, you have two weeks to watch Seasons 1 & 2 of Veronica Mars, because the third season starts in October. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to run to Walmart to get season 2, then I have to sign up for cable. TV is back.

Recommendations and other random thoughts

Well, after being devoid of any real blog topics, I thought I'd just spew some random thoughts and recommendations I've been saving up.

Shows & Movies

Brick- A new indy film that went to select theaters and just recently hit DVD. This movie Rocks. It's your traditional hard boiled detective film noir, but with twist- it's set in a modern day L.A. high school (no worries- no 90210 drama here).

Lost- I am insanely addicted to this show- even though I know it will never give me the answers I want, it doesn't matter. I'm hooked.

Curious George- Hits video next week. This movie is a work of art. Not only is the animation beautiful, but the soundtrack is amazing. Trust me, you must watch this movie.

Prison Break- I can't help it. If a show is serialized in any way, I must know what happens next. This show is a lot of fun, but it represents a new trend I'm noticing in TV- a premise that might be stretched into a mini series but one that has little hope surviving as a full fledged TV show. For instance, "Kidnapped," or "the 9." It seems to me that a show based around one event, such as a kidnapping, can only last for so long before the kid needs to be rescued. If the same kid is still missing by the fifth season, one might start wondering why they haven't invested in a funeral yet. As for prison break, if they get recaptured and spend another season trying to break out, I'm gone. I have enough of the "Free Willy" scam. I mean, just how often is that damn whale going to get caught?

Special Edition DVDs

When DVD first hit, every edition had two discs. It was expected. Now-a-days however, a bare bones edition with nothing but the movie costs the same as the old bonus editions, and you have to drop another 10$ or so to get the version of the movies you really want. While this is bad, what's worse is when they release the one disc and the bonus edition, you buy the bonus edition, and 2 months later you find out that the three disc edition with 4 versions of the movie is coming out. It's infuriating. I'm tired of having to second guess myself, or even worse, having to rebuy a new version of a movie I already have. To make things worse, now that I have a decent DVD collection, they're changing to blue ray and Hi-def discs. AAAAAAARRRRRRRRRGGGGGGGGGG!
While Peter Jackson was the first to do it on DVD with his extended lord of the rings collections, I suspect it may all be George Lucas’s fault in the end (and yes, I did rebuy the new DVD release of star wars with both the theatrical cuts ad the special edition, even though I already have the DVD box set that came out last year- hence my bitterness).

Video Games
yes, I still play. Not often, but I do. But I'm not always up to date. For example, I just recently acquired my ps2, even though ps3 and the Nintendo wii are do out in a few weeks. Go figure.

Some games worth trying-

Lego star wars- the name itself should imply just how cool it is.

Kingdom hearts- Sweet. Best RPG ever.

World of war craft- okay, so online gaming is a thorn in my side, mostly because my computer is far too slow for me to play. But it is a great game, and I hope I can play on my own soon. Also, all my friends play, so I feel left out.

Smallville
recently acquired season five, and while many great things are happening, I'm over the whole Lana/Clark thing. Most comic fans knew it would never work out anyway, but the show has taken some creative license before, so it anything was possible. But the show builds up the romance right before revealing that yep, Lana won't ever cut it. WHY DIDN"T THEY JUST GET IT OVER WITH THEN?!?!?!?!?! Anyway, can’t wait for the Lois/Clark thing. While it'll definitely be on and off again, at least we know it'll last. And while I get that they're prolonging the show as long as possible, I'm way past ready for real pieces of the legend to start falling in place.

Where to go
well, while I didn't announce it, I did finish college- I now have a bachelor’s degree in English Ed. The question, however, is- where do we go? While we're comfortable here in Idaho, there are no jobs for me here. And I don't think working in a call center is what I went to college for. Oh well.

Remote Control Basics (and other useless knowledge women need to understand men)

My wife and I have been married for almost three years now, and in that time, I've realized that I've corrupted her a great deal. A true scholar, my wife loves to read. And she reads a large variety of subject, with psychology being the most popular. But in the time we've been married I've also got her hooked on several different TV shows and Movies. Not always the ones I like (Star Wars and Buffy are still a little out of her reach), but she still consume far more television now than she did. As for me, if anything I read less than I used to. Oh well.
After three years, we've both learned a lot about each other and how to get along. But there are still something things that reside in one person's realm of knowledge. For instance- we've had a DVD player for the entire course of our marriage, but my wife still can't work the remote. I, on the other hand, still can't figure out the difference between shampoo and conditioner.
This got me to thinking- perhaps there are a lot of content areas that are exclusive to one gender. And so I've decided to put together a book, or encylcopedia, if you will, of the content that men wish women knew, such as how to work a cellphone or remote, the difference between different superheroes, the different generation of game consoles, the difference between star wars and star trek, definitions and explanations of different pop icons such as the transformers, Voltron, Gummi bears, and Darkwing duck. I think it'd be fun, and useful.
So, if anyone reading this has any ideas of content they think should be added, please let me know. After all, why not prove once and for all just how petty and uncomplicated men are once and for all?

The Changing World

Lately I have been continually finding myself wishing to be kid again. Not only is responsibility and adulthood a pain, but the world I live in now is becoming stranger and more foreign to me the older I get. Ask any kid on the street what a smurf is, and you'll see what I mean.

For example, many of the things I learned as a kid are no longer true. Case in point- Pluto. In a recent move by the astrological society of the world, Pluto has been officially demoted from a planet to a "dwarf," as well as its moon.

This isn't the first time my world's been rearranged. Little Ceasers (in Idaho at least) has recently made the decision to no longer carry anything but large pizza, most of which being the five dollar "hot 'n ready" pepperoni, thus eliminating the source of its catch phrase "Pizza, Pizza" by phasing out the double pizza deal that came on the cardboard sheet with the paper sheath. I remember once when I was a kid, my Mom would buy the 'Pizza, Pizza" deal and take us to a park for lunch. Now, that's impossible.

*sigh* I suppose that there are things that need to change, but it would be nice if someone asked me once in awhile. That's all I'm saying.

Perhaps that's just the way the world works. Maybe we judge the passing of time and the growth of our personalities not by the years but by change? Perhaps growing old has nothing to do with years passing but rather with the changes that those years bring. After all, age if often recognized by the changes that occur in our body, and the wisdom of age comes with the changes in our thinking that have occurred due to the experiences we've had.

Maybe I'm fooling myself, but maybe change is something that we must learn to endure, and maybe, to control. After all, getting fit is nothing more than a change in diet and habit. While they seem like big changes, when compared to the changes in the world they're barely a drop in the bucket.

In closing, consider this- if a planet can be changed overnight by a decision made by a group of people, imagine how much power we must have to affect change in our own lives.

Why I want to be like Silent Bob

Well, the first question is probably going to be "why not write about any of the topics you mentioned last time?" Well, because no one reads this anyway, so who cares? And in response to "Always Smiling," well, go be bored somewhere else.

I've recently started watching the Kevin Smith movies again. Not sure why, really. I went to see clerks 2 with a friend and really fell back in love with the characters. My personal favorite, however, has always been Silent Bob.

Not only is he a bigger fella (a characteristic I can relate to more and more as the years go by), but he only speaks when he needs to, which is a trait I have always admired in people. As an established motormouth, I've grown used to people ignoring me and tuning me out because they assume that what I say isn't very important. And I do have to admit, quantity certainly does seem to lessen quality.

I've always thought of the silent people as the truly wise ones, because they, more than anyone else, seem to realize the true valuelessness of words. Sure, words can be useful, when used correctly, but more times than not they merely complicate the situation by adding misunderstanding to disagreement.

I've often thought of going silent, only speaking when asked or when it's important, but I can't (and yes, I do see the humor in my discussing this topic on my blog). I wish I could be though. Because I like thought of people thinking back and remembering me for the important stuff I had to say, rather than the worthless and forgettable rabble that I spend most of my time dispensing.

The Return of the Cynic

So, I'm back. Yes, I know, after a month of peace a quiet one has to ask "can I deal with Mike's opinion on a regular basis?" well, I don't know. Sounds like a personal question that requires a whole lot of soul searching and prayer.

Anyway, what to talk about. I could give a detailed explanation of what I've been up to for the last month. I could also go on a little bit about the close mindedness of the residents of the "Mormon corridor." I could even reflect on the significance of the last few days (both my birthday and the anniversary of a life threatening surgery). So, the question is, what do YOU want to hear about?

A. Why BYU-I pisses me off
B. Mormons and the rating system
C. Those other movies this summer
D. How I learned what life is about (without learning anything new)
E. Where the hell have I been for the last month?

Please select the topic that most interests you, leave me a comment with your vote, and the winning topic will be featured in my next blog (which will be in 2-3 days). Think of it as one more way Price of Eggs in China goes out of its way to please and serve the customer.

Supercalifragilisticexpia...

It's what you say when you have nothing to say at all. Don't worry, though, more complaints soon! also- click on pic to see the full thing! it's worth it!

Superman and the Raiders of the Dead Man's Chest

Human beings, as a rule, almost never choose what they need over what they want or like. It's one of the unassailable truths- until the day they die, most people never truly rid themselves of the rebellious streak that showed up around two years old and then gestated into a mile tall monster once puberty hit. While the monster may hibernate and even let so called reason believe that it has won, in reality stubbornness selfishness and rebelliousness are always there... waiting.

What brings this up, do you ask?

In the past few months I've been obsessing over Superman returns. And much to my surprise, it turned out to be a great movie. Superman Returns is much more than a new installment in the franchise or one more testimony to the current success of superhero movies; the movie is more than just a story or a special effects achievement, rather it is an essay on the human need to have faith in something greater than ourselves.

The title "Superman Returns" refers to much more than just the storyline of the movie, it also refers to the return of Superman to the media and pop culture mainstream. The movie explores the question "does Superman have a place in our society?" While the film itself answers with a strong positive, it turns out that the film is almost too pertinent, almost too accurate to real life, because the answer that seems to be coming from society as a whole is a reluctant "no."

Now, don't get me wrong, the film is doing rather well in the box office. While many are under the impression that the movie is failing, in fact it's nearly made back its budget in its two week run. And that's even considering the record smashing opening of the other big movie this summer, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest.

It's actually the great success of "Pirates" that made me to realize that something is seriously wrong with our society today. I realize that this sounds dramatic, but it's true. Now my, logic may be a little biased, but it runs something like this-

When Superman first appeared, he was a hero to a people just coming to grips with a changing world. With everything growing like crazy, many began to question their place in the world. And then the Depression began. Suddenly the regular person felt powerless to affect their lives, to save themselves from the problems of the world. And then came Superman. Superman is perhaps the closest thing to a pop culture Christ that we've ever had. Much of this comparison could have to do with the creators of Superman, two Jewish boys who saw that people needed a hero, a savior.

And Superman quickly became that savior. An example of hope and strength, Superman helped every person to realize that there is a super man in all of us, a hero able to change his or her own life and the lives of those around them.

While Superman has become more or less popular through the years, he has always stood as a champion of right, as the example of what we could do with our lives we chose to. While we may not be able to fly or lift cars in the same sense, we could grow, learn, and gain the "power" needed to accomplish what we set our hearts and minds to.

Superman used to be seen as the perfect example, as the hero of the people, and as a symbol of hope. But no longer.

In his prime, Superman was a hero that everyone could believe in. But these days this generation seems to have forgotten how to believe. Sure, they like stuff such as Spider-man; and admittedly, Spider-man is a lot easier to relate to. But then again, Judas is way easier to relate to as opposed to Christ.

In today's world we choose believable heroes; protagonists who live in a gray area between right and wrong, who dress in black, who break the rules, who serve themselves instead of the people. Which is where Pirates comes in.

When Superman came out, I was, as I've stated continuously, elated. I told everyone to see it, and some did. Most people told me they were waiting for Pirates. Others told me they had seen superman, but it was too far out, too hokey. Too unbelievable. Most said, whether they saw it or not, that Superman was just to perfect to be able to believe in.

Apparently most of the world felt the same way, as nearly everyone went to the theater to see a movie that features a thieving, whoring, murdering drunkard of a protagonist as opposed to someone that can be looked up to. For the record, I saw pirates that weekend to, and enjoyed it, but it made me sad that many people rejected Superman, a symbol of right, for Jack Sparrow, the embodiment of that stubborn and rebellious monster in all of us. For the record, Superman Returns does dirty our hero a little, making him a little more worldly, which only goes to show that even superman is being affected by this trend.

Sure, Jack is more relatable; but if that's true, what does that say of us? Are we weak and dishonest creatures? Is that what we want to be? According to the box office, it is.

Superman is more important and useful than anyone realizes. He, and many superheroes like him, are symbols, icons if you will- figures that teach us moral, values, and help us learn to exercise faith. While many may feel this is a stretch, Superman is a stepping stone, an exercise in having faith in something greater than ourselves. The truth is, believing in superman is a preparatory step to having faith in Christ. When someone loses this faith, this ability to believe in the unbelievable, they begin on a road that eventually keeps them from believing in anything they can't imagine actually happening, or in anyone they can't relate to. Because if Superman is unbelievable, how much more unbelievable is Christ?

All things point to Christ, or should. The Scriptures urge us to surround ourselves with those things that remind us of Christ, those things that speak of God. If Superman doesn't fit this bill, I don't know what does.

In the end, the world needs Superman. We need to have the symbol, that exercise in suspending our disbelief, for only when we learn to banish disbelief do we truly have a chance of truly having faith in something.

Triumphant Return

My obsession with superheroes has been a lifelong affliction. For example, when I was three (or maybe four) I had the bright idea to imitate superman (an idea no doubt gleaned from reruns of the George Reeves TV show) and jumped off a high point into some hard snow. Unfortunately the resulting broken leg, cast, and arthritis that surfaced years later were not enough to distract me from hat would be my lifelong distraction.

With the advent of video, I, like very other kid, got to watch the amazing movies that were made before my birth and achievement of independent thought. Of course, the Christopher Reeves Superman movies were among my very favorites. It wasn't until years later that I realized that all the movies were definitely dated, although Superman and Superman II both stand up pretty well. Three and Four, however, well...

Like all comic fans, I've been pretty excited (and occasionally disappointed) by the recent trend of comics books movies. I was especially thrilled (and frightened) by the news of a new Superman movie. As I mentioned in previous blogs, I was excited, for not only did this seem to be a fresh take on the movies, but it was supposed to stay true to the franchise... even forming a vague sequel to superman I & II.
With child like glee I bought tickets for a 10 o'clock premier (cool, eh?) and when the day came (today, actually) my best friend and I were there bright and early with chairs and a cooler to wait out the day (there are worse things than a 12 hour wait).

When I got into the theater, I held my breath and watched the movie unfold...

From the moment the music started, I was a kid again.

This movie, to say the very least, is a Miracle. Straight up. Not only does it stay true to the original movies, but Brandon Routh seemed to channel Chris Reeves in a way that brought tears to my eyes.

Kevin Spacey was a dark, angry Lex Luthor that was recognizable from both the movies and the comics.

And Lois- Kate Bosworth, although young, was the perfect choice.

This movie captured the spirit, the scope, and the ideals that lie behind Superman and his stories. It also captures the tone and style of the old movies and brings them effortlessly in synch with today.

When I left the theater, there were tears in my eyes. Not because I was sad, rather, I was elated. Bryan Singer had done it, and once again, I believed that a man could fly.

My Half Empty Glass

I recent months, I've realized that I'm a fairly negative person. Family and friends are probably shaking their heads right now, thinking "Really? We’ve only been telling you this since you were four!" But it's true.

I was rereading some of my blogs and I've realized that I rarely look at something in a positive light. That may be why I hate movies with downer endings... I'm already so negative it's hard to take on more. Now, don't get me wrong, I'm not self cruising, nor am I beating my self up. Rather, I'm recognizing a trait that needs some adjustment.

Where and when did this start? Truth is, I don't really know. And the weird part of it is, this negativity really only applies to my own life and abilities- when it comes to others, I used to be pretty good at the whole moral support thing.

Negative thinking is never productive, unfortunately, nor does it help heighten a mood in any way. But it's still there. Perhaps it comes from dwindling hope, or perhaps it comes from a selfish reaction to a world that isn't the way I want it. I'm not sure. But once again it something I do know has to be changed. By thinking negatively of myself, I'm not really doing much credit to those who care about me.

So, I'm going to try to be more positive; starting now- so let me apologize to all the Napoleon Dynamite fans of the world; I’m sorry. You're not really as useless and idiotic as I've always thought. After all, if it weren't for you, I might have had to enjoy the movie, and that would have killed me. I'm also grateful for you because you help reassure me that when the apocalypse comes, there will be a large margin of people to burn before my name comes up.

From here on out, every day is a new day. Next time, the usefulness of bad sequels.

World Wide Serenity Day

Blogger's Note: the following was borrowed from the Serenity Day website. In an effort to help several charities and send a message to hollywood execs, Browncoats (fans of Firefly/Serenity) everywhere have arranged over 40 screenings of the movie Serenity, the proceeds of which will go to charity. The serenity day plan is actually threefold- See the movie at one of the screenings, send in a letter to fox execs (details can be found at

The Serenity Day Website

on the forums page) and buy a copy of the film. not only is this for a great cause, but it will help film execs know that we want and will support a sequel (or three) or a series. Remember- you can't stop the signal.

Joss Whedon's Serenity on the big screen.
On Joss Whedon's birthday.
To benefit Joss Whedon's favorite charity, Equality Now.

47 Screenings Confirmed As Of June 16, 2006
Australia, Canada, England, New Zealand, United States

The Unprecedented Browncoat Event Of The Year
You Can't Afford To Miss - Buy Your Tickets Today!

There are two ways to fight a battle like ours. One is to whisper in the ear of the masses, try subtlely and gradually to change the gender expectations and mythic structures of our culture. That's me. The other is to step up and confront the thousands of atrocities that are taking place around the world on an immediate, one-by-one basis. That's a great deal harder, and that's Equality Now. It's not about politics; it's about basic human decency.

- Joss Whedon

All of us at Equality Now continue to be amazed by and grateful for the Browncoats' and Serenity fans' generous and committed support for our work. Their energy and enthusiasm is inspiring and these screenings are coming at a critical time when we are especially in need of funds! We thank each and every one of them and Happy Birthday to Joss!"

- Amanda Sullivan, Equality Now

Join The Effort! | FAQ | Promote | Merchandise | Press | Contact
About | Flickr Group | News (Archive)

Note: If you don't see a "Buy Now!" link next to a given screening, try the "More Info" link. There might indeed be tickets on sale and we just haven't updated the listing.

June 17 (Early Bird Screening!) - HAVE FUN, SCREENERS!

• Ann Arbor MI (USA) - Michigan Theater (More Info)

June 22

• Atlanta GA (USA) - Lefont Plaza Theater (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Austin TX (USA) - Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Downtown (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Cleveland OH (USA) - Tower City Cinemas (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Fresno CA (USA) - Sierra Vista 6 Theater (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Las Vegas NV (USA) - Pre-Planning
• Milwaukee WI (USA) - Showtime Cinema (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Minneapolis MN (USA) - Riverview Theater (More Info)
• Montreal QC (Canada) - Concordia's J.A. de Seve Cinema (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Pittsburgh PA (USA) - The Oaks Theater (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Raleigh NC (USA) - Raleighwood Cinema Grill (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Salt Lake City UT (USA) - Tower Theatre (More Info, Other Charity) - Buy Now!

June 23

• Adelaide SA (Australia) - Academy Cinema City (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Albany NY (USA) - The Palace Theater (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Arlington VA (USA) - Arlington Cinema N Drafthouse (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Auburn Hills MI (USA) - Pre-Planning
• Boston MA (USA) - Coolidge Corner Theater (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Charlotte NC (USA) - Consolidated Park Terrace 6 (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Chicago IL (USA) - The Portage Theater (More Info)
• Concord NH (USA) - Regal Cinema Concord 10 - (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Dallas TX (USA) - Studio Movie Grill (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Denver CO (USA) - The Bug Theatre (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Fort Collins CO (USA) - Lory Student Center Theatre, CSU (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Houston TX (USA) - ApolloCon
• Kansas City MO (USA) - Screenland Theatre (More Info) - Buy Now!
• London (England) - Pre-Planning
• Los Angeles CA (USA) - Laemmle's One Colorado (More Info) - SOLD OUT
• Melbourne VIC (Australia) - Hoyts Cinemas Forest Hill (More Info) - Buy Now!
• New York City NY (USA) - Cinema Village (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Oxford (England) - Ultimate Picture Palace (More Info)
• Philadelphia PA (USA) - UA King Of Prussia Stadium 16 (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Portland OR (USA) - Cinema 21 (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Sacramento CA (USA) - Century Stadium 14 (More Info)
• San Diego CA (USA) - Museum of Photographic Arts (More Info) - Buy Now!
• San Francisco CA (USA) - Bridge Theater (More Info)
• Santa Barbara CA (USA) - Pre-Planning
• Wellington (New Zealand) - Reading Cinemas

June 24

• Bloomington IN (USA) - Monroe County Public Library (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Edmonton AB (Canada) - Cineplex Odeon South Edmonton Common (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Houston TX (USA) - ApolloCon
• Houston TX (USA) - ApolloCon
• Kansas City MO (USA) - Screenland Theatre (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Leeds (England) - Leeds The Light (Vue) (More Info)
• Madison WI (USA) - Market Square Theatre (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Seattle WA (USA) - Magnuson Park Community Center (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Sydney NSW (Australia) - George Street Cinemas (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Tampa FL (USA) - Tampa Pitcher Show (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Toronto ON (Canada) - The Royal (More Info) - Buy Now!
• Tucson AZ (USA) - The Loft Cinema (More Info)
• Vancouver BC (Canada) - Pacific Cinematheque (More Info) - Buy Now!

June 25

• Glasgow (Scotland) - Pre-Planning

June 30 (Straggler Screening!)

• Auckland (New Zealand) - Village Skycity Cinemas (More Info)

If you don't see your city listed, it might be up to you to make one happen. There is no central authority doling out screenings to these cities. It is entirely up to fans on the ground to organize a screening where they live.

Cities above marked with a filled bullet instead of an open circle were among the 35 cities (although not necessarily the venues) to host the third and final special advance screenings of Serenity on June 23, 2005. Events listed in boldface are confirmed.

Serenity

A passenger with a deadly secret. Six rebels on the run. An assassin in pursuit. When the renegade crew of Serenity agrees to hide a fugitive on their ship, they find themselves in an action-packed battle between the relentless military might of a totalitarian regime who will destroy anything - or anyone - to get the girl back and the bloodthirsty creatures who roam the uncharted areas of space. But, the greatest danger of all may be on their ship.

Equality Now

Equality Now was founded in 1992 to work for the protection and promotion of the human rights of women around the world. Working with national human rights organizations and individual activists, Equality Now documents violence and discrimination against women and mobilizes international action to support their efforts to stop these human rights abuses.

Marvel Sells Out

In recent months DC Comics has set the comic world on fire with their hit series "Infinite Crisis" and its follow up events, "52" and "One Year Later." Making the most of the cross over format, DC revisited one of their land mark events, namely "Crisis on Infinite Earths," and created a sequel even that felt daring, original, and natural (due in no small part to the 3 year build up to the event).

Naturally, the biggest question on everyone's mind was not what DC would do next, but rather how Marvel would answer. And, unfortunately, that answer would come in the form of "House of M" (something most people want to forget) and Marvel's supposed world changing "Civil War." "House of M" was designed as nothing more than a money scheme; a chance for the company to put out more special books for the fans to buy. Civil War isn't much better.

There was a time when Marvel, the legendary "House of Ideas," was innovative, creative, and daring. Today, however, they have become the ignored middle child, continually turning hurried and sloppy somersaults in order to get attention. The continuity of classic marvel used to be iron clad; every moment of every imaginary day was carefully mapped out- you could see the same character passing through different parts of the city in several different comics- a crossover in one book would mean that a character would be missing from their team book, and that their book would also mention that crossover. Today, however, Wolverine can be on FOUR (yes, Four) different super teams ("New Avengers," "Astonishing X-men," "Uncanny X-Men," and just plain "X-Men"), star in two of his own monthly books (Wolverine and Wolverine: origins), and still have at least 2 guest appearances a month.

Anxious for the extra buck, Marvel will do anything to get attention even undermine their own characters.

"Civil War" is centered around a government bill forcing all superheroes to reveal their identity, register with the government, and work for them. While DC was able to revisit a previous storyline with success, Marvel merely regurgitated the same storyline the supposedly tore the mutant world apart in the pages of X-men years ago. The conflict comes from the two sides of the argument, with cooperation championed by Iron man while rebellion is led by captain America.

The fights so far have felt strained and forced, and the story felt rushed and compacted. Marvel swears that this series will change their comics forever, and they may be right. They are effectively making legendary characters into soulless money making logos.

The latest travesty to come from this "earth shattering" event was something that was possibly the most anticipated blunder ever- the reveal of spider-man. That’s right, as of yesterday, the marvel world now knows that Peter Parker is Spider-man, thus removing an essential part of the character.

This is a travesty. Not much more to say, other than "Marvel Sucks." God help us all.