I'm Still Around

Well, due to disaster after disaster in this torturous exercise we call life, I haven't been posting lately. I really had every intention of getting back to it regularly, but things like air conditioners dying and sinks falling out of walls (seriously) have taken up much of my time recently and not left me with much energy to devote towards this blog or the subjects in which I'm usually interested. I do have every intention of getting back to it, so, to those two people who give a damn, be strong until my triumphant return!

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Fall TV Schedule: Freaky Friday

It turns out that Friday actually isn't so freaky, with only one show that I'm moderately interested in watching. In case the picture hasn't given it away, it's The Starter Wife (Oct. 10) at 10/9 on USA, although it'll likely run a few more times because it's on USA. I enjoyed the miniseries last year, so I'm looking forward to see where they're going with it now. And Judy Davis is sublime. Other shows on the night are listed after the click. In case you're wondering, there won't be any post for Saturday, which is generally a barren wasteland for television. We should all be out partying anyway! Or working to catch up on stuff on which we got behind during the week because we were watching television. Whatever.

Returning Network Shows:

Wife Swap (Oct. 3) ABC 8/7
Supernanny (Oct. 3) ABC 9/8
20/20 (underway) ABC 10/9
Ghost Whisperer (Oct. 3) CBS 8/7
Numb3rs (Oct. 3) CBS 10/9
Life (Sept. 29) NBC 10/9
Everybody Hates Chris (Oct. 3) CW 8/7
The Game (Oct. 3) CW 8:30/7:30
Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader? (underway) FOX 8/7
Don't Forget the Lyrics! (underway) FOX 9/8

New Network Shows:

The Ex List (Oct. 3) CBS 9/8 - Woman revisits exes after psychic tells her that she's met the one. [Does she ever consider that the psychic might be hitting on her?]
America's Toughest Jobs (underway) NBC 8/7 - Ordinary people attempt dangerous jobs.
Crusoe (Oct. 17) NBC 9/8 - Like Robinson Crusoe, as primitive as can be. Just like Robinson Crusoe.

Cable:

Crash (Oct. 17) Starz 10/9 - Based on the film that stole won the Oscar.

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Fall TV Schedule: Thursday

Yup, it's time to give Thursday a good going-over. This is the best-looking night on television (and I'm not talking about the programming), so I may not always be thinking coherently. To find out what I'm getting at (or would like to), click it. [As always, Eastern/Central time and (premiere date) are given.]

I should probably feel guilty for the way I feel about the programs on Thursday nights, but I figure that I should be allowed to be shallow for one night out of the week. For me, Thursday is all about the pretty. First up at 8/7 on the CW is Smallville (Sept. 18) starring Tom Welling, who is possibly the most beautiful man walking the Earth. As an added bonus, Justin Hartley (also very pretty) is supposed to be returning as a series regular in his role as Green Arrow. Now, this show has sagged somewhat in recent years, but I felt that it made something of a comeback last season. Hopefully, they can keep the momentum going. As much as I do enjoy the pretty, it's nice to enjoy the show for other qualities every now and then. After that, at 9/8 on the CW is Supernatural (Sept. 18) starring Jensen Ackles (pretty) and Jared Padalecki (more pretty). As much as I do enjoy the gorgeous boys, the show is actually worth watching for other reasons. The guys have excellent chemistry and, in an extreme rarity for a television show, it's actually managed to scare the hell out of me a time or two. If this type of show isn't your thing, however, there is always the scenery to enjoy. And if we're really lucky, the scenery will take off an article of clothing or two every now and then. Okay, NOW I feel guilty. By the way, if you didn't notice those premiere dates are TONIGHT! Anyway, the last hour of primetime is empty for me, which is good, because I can use it to pursue very serious issues as my penance for the previous few hours. Other Thursday shows are below.

Returning Network Shows:

Ugly Betty (Sept. 25) ABC 8/7
Grey's Anatomy (Sept. 25) ABC 9/8
Survivor: Gabon (Sept. 25) CBS 8/7
CSI (Oct. 9) CBS 9/8
My Name Is Earl (Sept. 25) NBC 8/7
The Office (Sept. 25) NBC 9/8
30 Rock (Oct. 30) NBC 9:30/8:30
ER (Sept. 25) NBC 10/9
Kitchen Nightmares (underway) Fox 9/8

New Network Shows:

Life on Mars (Oct. 9) ABC 10/9 - Modern cop finds himself in the 1970's.
Eleventh Hour (Oct. 9) CBS 10/9 - Biophysicist solves crimes like pretty much everyone else on TV.
Kath & Kim (Oct. 9) NBC 8:30/7:30 - A mother deals with her adult but immature daughter returning home.
Hole in the Wall (underway) Fox 8/7 - Game show where people fit through a hole in a wall. Seriously. [Hey, network guys, if you're THIS desperate for crappy show ideas, give me a ring. I'd be happy to give you crap in exchange for your money.]

Cable:

It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia (Sept. 18) FX 10/9
The Sarah Silverman Program (Oct. 16) Comedy Central 10:30/9:30

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Fall TV Schedule: Wednesday

Judging from my inability to come up with a pop-culture referencing title, Wednesday may be the most boring day of the week. Although, Thursday is still in the running. I thought about making some questionable reference to "Hump Day," but I have far too much class for that. (You, in Illinois, stop snickering!) As for the schedule, it looks better than Tuesday, but not by much. The same rules still apply [East./Cent., (premiere date)]. Click on through to the other side!

Starting off Wednesday will be one of my most anticipated returns, Pushing Daisies (Oct. 1), at 8/7 on ABC. I've missed the pie maker, the pie-serving chanteuse, the surly detective, the one-eyed mermaid, the two-eyed mermaid, and the living-dead girl (and dog). Yes, it's just your typical collection of characters, but they somehow make it fresh and enjoyable. After that, there is an empty hour where nothing interests me. Then at 10/9, I have tentative plans to watch Dirty Sexy Money (Oct. 1) on ABC. I say "tentative" because I watched this show last year and I was just about ready to give it up when the writers' strike occurred. I'm going to give it another chance this season and see if they've managed to pep it up a bit. It wasn't bad, it just failed to hold my interest for an hour. There would be interesting parts and then parts to snooze through. I really hope they cut back heavily on Nick's wife, who manages to suck all of the energy out of every scene in which she appears. I'd like to see this show succeed because there is a lot of legitimate talent here (and because Peter Krause and Seth Gabel are nice to look at). If it doesn't do it for me, then there is always South Park (Oct. 8) on Comedy Central. Of course, I'll be watching it anyway at some point since Comedy Central is nice enough to rerun it frequently. As usual, other shows of the night can be found below.

Returning Network Shows:

Private Practice (Oct. 1) ABC 9/8
The New Adventures of Old Christine (Sept. 24) CBS 8/7
Criminal Minds (Sept. 24) CBS 9/8
CSI: NY (Sept. 24) CBS 10/9
Deal or No Deal (underway) NBC 9/8
Lipstick Jungle (Sept. 24) NBC 10/9
America's Next Top Model (underway) CW 8/7
Bones (underway) Fox 8/7
'Til Death (underway) Fox 9/8

New Network Shows:

Gary Unmarried (Sept. 24) CBS 8:30/7:30 - Divorced dad takes a swing at finding love while being a divorced dad.
Knight Rider (Sept. 24) NBC 8/7 - Retread Update of the 80's show.
Stylista (Oct. 22) CW 9/8 - A bunch of fame-hungry fools humiliate themselves to impress Elle editor who probably has no business judging anyone. [Can you tell that I am SO sick of this "reality" crap?]
Do Not Disturb (underway) Fox 9:30/8:30 - Follows the wacky antics at a Manhattan hotel.

Cable:

Sons of Anarchy (underway) FX 10/9 - Biker gang drama.
Chocolate News (Oct. 15) Comedy Central 10:30/9:30 - Sketch comedy.

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Fall TV Schedule: Ruby Tuesday

Yes, it's Tuesday, so I'll be taking a look at what is on Tuesdays this Fall. (As it turns out, not much.) Time is East./Cent. and (premiere date) is, yeah, like that.

Despite the title of this post, Tuesday doesn't look like a gem to me. That night seems pretty empty, which is good because I'm sure I can use those few hours to catch up on something important, like any shows I'm behind on viewing. The only thing I'll be watching Tuesday is Eli Stone (Oct. 14) at 10/9 on ABC. I've basically fallen in really-like with the charming Jonny Lee Miller as the title character who has prophetic visions. He will apparently still be having them after undergoing surgery for the aneurysm that was thought to cause them. I'm wondering if they'll continue the George Michael theme or move to something else. I could probably find the answer online, but I want to be surprised! Other Tuesday night shows follow below.

Returning Network Shows:

NCIS (Sept. 23) CBS 8/7
Without a Trace (Sept. 23) CBS 10/9
The Biggest Loser: Families (Sept. 16) NBC 8/7
Law & Order: SVU (Sept. 23) NBC 10/9
House (Sept. 16) Fox 8/7

New Network Shows:

Opportunity Knocks (Sept. 23) ABC 8/7 - Game show that tests family knowledge.
The Mentalist (Sept. 23) CBS 9/8 - A Psych ripoff with a guy who thinks that all gay men and/or only gay men get pedicures.
90210 (underway) CW 8/7 - A retread An update of Beverly Hills, 90210.
Privileged (underway) CW 9/8 - College grad tutors a pair of teenage heiresses.
Fringe (underway) Fox 9/8 - Follows investigators of "fringe" science cases. [Seems very X-Files-ish and I thought about giving it a shot, but Joshua Jackson annoys me for some reason that I can't explain.]

Cable:

The Real Housewives of Atlanta (Oct. 7) Bravo 9/8 - The latest in the Real Housewives franchise.
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Fall TV Schedule: Manic Monday

Today, I continue my look at the Fall TV schedule by going over what is playing on Mondays. As before, times are shown in Eastern/Central format with expected season-premiere dates in parentheses. After the click, you can see what I'll be watching.

My Monday night will be all about NBC. It actually could be a full night of viewing for me if the new show NBC is rolling out is any good. First, at 8/7, I'll be tuned to Chuck (Sept. 29) to see what spy shenanigans Chuck and the gang are into this season. Then, at 9/8, I'll stay on NBC for the return of Heroes (Sept. 22). I'm hoping the show can recapture the magic of the first season after seemingly going off track a bit last year and that they continue to exploit the wholesome goodness that is Milo Ventimiglia in some state of undress. Finally, I plan to check out the new show, My Own Worst Enemy (Oct. 13) starring Christian Slater, that is scheduled after Heroes. Slater stars as a man with two distinct personalities sharing his body, one of which is a spy. It's all a part of some secret government project. I'm looking forward to seeing what Slater can do in the role and whether the material is worthy of him. You can see what else is on Mondays below.

Returning Network Shows:

Dancing With the Stars (Sept. 22) ABC 8/7
Samantha Who? (Oct. 13) ABC 9:30/8:30
Boston Legal (Sept. 22) ABC 10/9
The Big Bang Theory (Sept. 22) CBS 8/7
How I Met Your Mother (Sept. 22) CBS 8:30/7:30
Two and a Half Men (Sept. 22) CBS 9/8
CSI: Miami (Sept. 22) CBS 10/9
Gossip Girl (underway) CW 8/7
One Tree Hill (underway) CW 9/8
Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles (underway) Fox 8/7
Prison Break (underway) Fox 9/8

New Network Shows:

Worst Week (Sept. 22) CBS 9:30/8:30 - Accident-prone schlub tries to impress future in-laws.

Cable:

Raising the Bar (underway) TNT 10/9 - Another lawyer show.

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Fall TV Schedule: Sunday Bloody Sunday

This week I'm going to be going over the Fall TV schedule day by day. Today, of course, is Sunday, so I'll be looking at what Sundays will have to offer. Mainly, I'll be telling you what shows I'm looking forward to watching with some information about the other shows, new and returning. All times will be listed as Eastern/Central with expected season premiere dates in parentheses. Click on through for the Sunday lowdown.

My viewing schedule won't change at all from the last few seasons on Sunday. At 8/7, I'll be watching The Simpsons (Sept. 28) on Fox. If I stick with last year's schedule, I'll probably be taking a shower during the next half hour, but, if I decide to stay in front of the TV, I'll be watching King of the Hill (Sept. 28) on Fox to burn time until Desperate Housewives (Sept. 28) comes on at 9/8 on ABC, where I'll stay to view my beloved Brothers and Sisters (Sept. 28) during the following hour. Desperate Housewives is taking a five-year leap forward this year, and I'm curious to see how that will be handled. Gale Harold, best known as Brian on Queer As Folk, and Lily Tomlin will be making appearances this season. I'm also looking forward to checking in on the Walker clan on Brothers and Sisters. Are Scotty and Kevin living in marital bliss? Who the hell is Ryan? And will I be able to stomach Justin and Rebecca, who used to think they were siblings, in a romantic relationship? We shall see. Other shows scheduled for the night are below.

Returning Network Shows:
Extreme Makeover: Home Edition (Sept. 28) ABC 8/7
The Amazing Race (Sept. 28) CBS 8/7
Cold Case (Sept. 28) CBS 9/8
The Unit (Sept. 28) CBS 10/9
Family Guy (Sept. 28) Fox 10/9 [I'll be watching on Adult Swim at some point.]
American Dad (Sept. 28) Fox 10:30/9:30 [Ditto.]
NBC will be showing Sunday Night Football all night. [Yawn.]

New Network Shows:

Valentine (Oct. 5) CW 8/7 - Greek gods come to L.A. and play matchmaker.
Easy Money (Oct. 5) CW 9/8 - Guy from wacky family works on discovering biological roots.

Cable:

Dexter (Sept. 28) Showtime 9/8
Californication (Sept. 28) Showtime 10/9
True Blood (underway) HBO 9/8 - Telepaths and vampires and synthetic blood, oh my!
Entourage (underway) HBO 10/9
Little Britain USA (Sept. 28) HBO 10:30/9:30

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The Dancing of Politics

I’ve been pretty quiet on the topic of politics on this blog and for good reason: I can get pretty passionate about my views, and I can piss people off. I’ve had a lot of things bouncing around in my head with conventions happening and elections looming. I’ve decided to just spit them all out in one post and be done with it (well, unless someone does something else incredibly stupid to expound upon). In the end, I’ve decided that it’s my blog and I can write whatever I want, so I might as well take advantage of it. And on the blog, people can only comment and not try to stab me through the heart with a campaign-sign stake. Don’t expect any deep political analysis as that, frankly, bores me to tears. These are just my opinions and observations. Where to begin? (Click through to find out.)

So Sarah Palin is McCain’s choice of a running mate. Of course, she is an obvious ploy to grab Clinton supporters, but most of us aren’t that stupid. It’s like trying to trade a match for a flashlight. With the match, you might be able to see for a bit, but you’re going to get burned and be back in the dark soon enough. She doesn’t even make sense in that context since there are definitely more qualified women that could have taken the spot. She also appeals to those Americans with backwards views (of which there are far too many) since she claims to hold many of them herself. No birth control, sex education, or abortion for her, and, thus, she has a 17 year-old daughter who is knocked up. You can burn me in effigy if you want, but the claim that her family isn’t relevant to the political debate is pure garbage. When policies that a person wants to forward on a national level don’t even work in her own household, how in the hell is that not relevant? She doesn't even think abortion should be allowed in the cases of rape and incest. As far as I'm concerned, someone who would force a woman to carry a child after a rapist has forced it inside of her is no better than the rapist, who is among the lowest scum on Earth. And then there’s also the fact that she is under investigation for unethical behavior in her gubernatorial role in Alaska. This is the woman that supposedly fights corruption. From what I can tell, with her personally motivated firings of officials, the only reason she fights corruption is to eliminate the competition. The truly corrupt like the field all to themselves. Yet, people are actually falling for her rubbish. Frankly, Obama’s choice wasn’t much better. In Biden, he chose someone who flies in the face of his message of change. Biden is about as old-school politics as you can get. Obama had a chance to impress with his first major decision and blew it with his selection.

By the way, can you tell that I didn’t drink the Obama Kool-Aid? Yes, I was a Clinton supporter despite the fact that I’m not a Democrat. I thought our country could use a real leader for a change, but the Democrats wanted Dr. Feelgood instead. Although I am not a racist, honestly, race does play into my opinion, because I find it extremely galling that a black man would endorse a separate but equal solution for anything, which is exactly what he has done for the gay marriage issue. Shame on you, Senator Obama. Shame on you. And shame on you for further explaining your stance as a product of your faith. Faith should never decide policy. That’s exactly why many of us want power out of the hands of the conservative nutjobs, so we don’t have to deal with that kind of garbage. That being said, I probably will vote for him only as a vote against McCain. I was hoping to actually cast a vote for someone that I wanted to be President for a change instead of casting a vote against someone, but that wasn’t to be. I’m beginning to think it never will be. Honestly, I wouldn’t mind sitting out this election, but there’s a gay-marriage amendment I have to vote against.

Yes, you read right in that last paragraph, I am not a Democrat. I am not a Republican either. I have no party affiliation. It is my opinion that it is the parties together that comprise the greatest single threat to America. In their efforts to preserve their power, they pervert our system for their own gain and fundamentally change that system so they can continue to rule. Yes, the Democrats may be the lesser of two evils, but make no mistake about it, they are evil and bear a large part of the responsibility for the decay of our government right along with the Republicans. We have a situation in this country now where people are more loyal to party than nation. It’s no longer about what’s right, it’s about what the party wants, and people think the party needs to win because they are members. In that sense, the system has become like a football game where people cheer for their team and are more concerned about winning than putting someone competent in power. This was never clearer than in 2000 when everyone just wanted their side to win and seemed totally unconcerned with having a fair and accurate election. Real Americans would have wanted the real story, but, unfortunately, there don’t seem to be many left. Lest you think that my opinion of the parties is revolutionary or outlandish, I leave you with the words of a guy named George Washington in his Farewell Address in 1796:

I have already intimated to you the danger of parties in the State, with particular reference to the founding of them on geographical discriminations. Let me now take a more comprehensive view, and warn you in the most solemn manner against the baneful effects of the spirit of party generally.

This spirit, unfortunately, is inseparable from our nature, having its root in the strongest passions of the human mind. It exists under different shapes in all governments, more or less stifled, controlled, or repressed; but, in those of the popular form, it is seen in its greatest rankness, and is truly their worst enemy.

The alternate domination of one faction over another, sharpened by the spirit of revenge, natural to party dissension, which in different ages and countries has perpetrated the most horrid enormities, is itself a frightful despotism. But this leads at length to a more formal and permanent despotism. The disorders and miseries which result gradually incline the minds of men to seek security and repose in the absolute power of an individual; and sooner or later the chief of some prevailing faction, more able or more fortunate than his competitors, turns this disposition to the purposes of his own elevation, on the ruins of public liberty.

Without looking forward to an extremity of this kind (which nevertheless ought not to be entirely out of sight), the common and continual mischiefs of the spirit of party are sufficient to make it the interest and duty of a wise people to discourage and restrain it.

It serves always to distract the public councils and enfeeble the public administration. It agitates the community with ill-founded jealousies and false alarms, kindles the animosity of one part against another, foments occasionally riot and insurrection. It opens the door to foreign influence and corruption, which finds a facilitated access to the government itself through the channels of party passions. Thus the policy and the will of one country are subjected to the policy and will of another.

There is an opinion that parties in free countries are useful checks upon the administration of the government and serve to keep alive the spirit of liberty. This within certain limits is probably true; and in governments of a monarchical cast, patriotism may look with indulgence, if not with favor, upon the spirit of party. But in those of the popular character, in governments purely elective, it is a spirit not to be encouraged. From their natural tendency, it is certain there will always be enough of that spirit for every salutary purpose. And there being constant danger of excess, the effort ought to be by force of public opinion, to mitigate and assuage it. A fire not to be quenched, it demands a uniform vigilance to prevent its bursting into a flame, lest, instead of warming, it should consume.

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Returning to the Scene of the Crime

Boo! Yes, I've been absent for a while, and I apologize to the two of you who can't wait to see what I post next. I just needed a break. I would think, "I need to post something about that in my blog," and then I would think, "I'd rather take a sharp stick to the eye." I enjoy the blog overall, but it started to seem more of a chore than anything, so I stepped away for a bit. I think I'm feeling it again, so readers should be able to get their recommended dose of inanity once again. Enjoy!

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Luke and Noah: Does Anyone Care Anymore?

So, yeah, according to Monday's preview, Luke and Noah will be on As the World Turns today. Do I even have to mention that they are still celibate? For a while, I was dealing with the crappy way this show treats the characters and the fans by making fun of it. Now, it seems to have gotten too pathetic to even do that. Recently, there was a spoiler released saying that the couple would move to another stage in their relationship. Fans waited and nothing happened. Supposedly, the spoiler referred to Noah asking Luke on a date, as if they've never dated. To add insult to injury, the date ended up as a double date with Luke's granny, so, apparently, they can only go on chaperoned dates now. Yeah, that would be a new stage, although a very disturbing one.

The people behind this show are dishonest and obviously think very little of the fans. As much as I want to support Van Hansis and Jake Silbermann, who do a terrific job with what they're given in the roles, it's getting harder and harder to justify supporting anything about this show run by people with nothing but disdain for their audience. It's also getting harder to justify buying anything that Procter & Gamble makes, since they are the company behind the show. Personally, I'm planning to stop buying several Procter & Gamble products. I don't want these people to get my money or my viewership, which is why I'll only be watching on YouTube if I do continue to follow their story. If you care, there are clips after the click from the last episode with the couple and a preview for today. I honestly don't know how long I'll continue to cover them like this, as I just feel pretty disgusted with the whole thing right now.

Clips from August 20:





Preview for Tuesday:

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The Cho Show Is Go

Margaret Cho's new show, The Cho Show, debuted on VH1 Thursday night. I've been a fan of Cho for years, so I had to check it out. It looks like I'll be adding another reality show to my viewing roster after declaring that Kathy Griffin's was the only one that I watched. Actually, Cho's show is very similar to Griffin's My Life on the D-List. She has an entourage consisting of her assistant and glam squad (responsible for hair, makeup, and wardrobe), as well as her parents. Like Griffin, Cho is something of an acquired taste with a large gay following, so it makes sense that there is a similar vibe. Is Cho's show as good as Griffin's? Based upon the first episode, I'd say no. Cho is working with the handicap of only having a half-hour show instead of Griffin's allotment of an hour, but, overall, The Cho Show comes off as D-List Lite. Given the fact that Griffin's show is over for the season, however, a show with a similar vibe is just what the doctor ordered, and there is always the chance that it will improve.

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Nathan Bites It (And Not in a Good Way)

A few weeks back, I wrote about the season premiere of the Sci Fi show Eureka. In that post, I also wrote about what a hottie Ed Quinn was. Quinn portrays Nathan Stark, the foil for the hapless hero, Sheriff Jack Carter. In this week's episode, which premiered Tuesday night, Nathan bit the dust in a heroic manner. Apparently, this came about because Ed Quinn wanted to leave the show. After the click, I take a look at the good and the bad (mostly bad) of this development.

With Stark's death, the show really takes a hit in the beefcake department, but it also has no real foil for Sheriff Carter anymore. Frances Fisher's character, the business whiz that has pretty much taken over everything on the show, isn't going to cut it. Besides, she is only supposed to be around for several episodes. The show just won't be the same without someone continually busting the sheriff's chops the way that Stark did. It seems like there is going to be a gaping hole that should be filled by someone. The problem is that it can't be just any someone. It's going to have to be someone who can live up to Nathan Stark's snarky standard, and there doesn't seem to be anyone on the horizon that can do that.

His death does, however, resolve the issue of his impending marriage to Allison. I felt that their reconciliation was really forced, and it just didn't work for me. Now, it's not a problem. That being said, I'm going to miss the egotistical gasbag that was Nathan Stark, and I'm definitely going to miss watching Ed Quinn.

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Luke and Noah: Back in the Closet?

Luke and Noah, the still-celibate gay couple on As the World Turns, will be on today, and the new director of Luke's charity will recommend that Luke tone it down with Noah because the non-profit world can be pretty conservative. Of course, if they tone it down any more, they'll practically be family instead of "family." Then again, on this show, that would mean they could sleep together. Which reminds me: Liberty and Parker alert! Drink lots of coffee before watching and you should be okay. Clips from the last episode can be seen after the click.

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Upcoming CBS Show Starts Off on Wrong Foot

Being the pop-culture lover that I am, I think it goes without saying that I can't wait until the new Fall Season begins on television bringing new shows to watch and, in most cases, reject. One show, which has found itself firmly in my rejection pile before even debuting, is the CBS show The Mentalist. In a series of promos for the show, the title character, played by Simon Baker, declares a dead man is gay because he has a pedicure with clear polish. I actually had to see this thing a few times to make sure that what I thought I was hearing was correct. I couldn't (and still can't) believe that the show would have such a ridiculous line, and I really couldn't (and still can't) believe that they would actually put it in a promo. Not only is it offensive, but it makes the guy's supposed powers of observation and deduction look absolutely pathetic. It also doesn't help that those supposed powers of observation and deduction are an obvious rip-off of Psych. More on the show's offense and a clip including the ridiculous moment can be found after the click.

In today's world, it is ridiculous to assume that a pedicure has anything to do with someone's sexual orientation. I happen to be a gay man, and, the last time I checked, I've never had a pedicure in my life. Furthermore, in this age of metrosexuality, it's not so rare anymore for a straight man to get a pedicure. In fact, it wouldn't surprise me at all if Simon Baker was sporting recently pedicured feet while spouting that garbage. As a pretty-boy actor, it would very much be in the realm of possibility, and, as far as I know, he isn't gay. (Baker has a wife and children, which doesn't necessarily mean he is straight, but I'll give him the benefit of the doubt.) It's not very smart to market a show in a way that could alienate a segment of the viewing audience, especially if said segment would enjoy watching someone like Simon Baker as many gay men would. Unfortunately, the sheer stupidity of including that line in the show and the promo while totally failing to recognize how offensive and just plain incorrect such a statement is means that this is one gay man that won't be watching.

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Luke and Noah: Together Again

If Granny Lu gets some before me, I'm gonna cut a bitch!

Luke and Noah, the ever-celibate gay couple on As the World Turns, will actually be together today after a week of banishment (possibly for thinking about having sex) for Luke and two weeks in homo limbo for Noah. Yes, they will be a pair once again working together to avoid any kind of behavior that would indicate that they are any more than roommates who kiss every once in a while. Apparently, they will be celebrating the beginning of Luke's foundation that will help sick children (a cause chosen because they couldn't think of anything more vague). Luke's grandmother will bring in a guy to help manage the foundation, and he is possibly a romantic interest for her, as well. That's right, with the way this show works, Luke's grandma will probably be getting more action than he will. After the click, you can watch clips from Luke's last episode a long, long time ago in a galaxy far, far away, where gay couples don't have sex.

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Ellen and Portia Wed, World Doesn't End

Talk-show host Ellen Degeneres and actress Portia de Rossi were married Saturday in a small ceremony at their home in Beverly Hills. As far as I can tell, the world hasn't ceased to exist and the nation hasn't descended into lawless chaos, despite the fact that they and other same-sex couples have wed. In the event that either does occur, I won't be here to comment on it since I'll either be dead or busy defending my life and property with deadly force. Congratulations, ladies! And remember me when it comes time to choose officials after you take over the nation as scheduled in the Gay Agenda.

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D-List Finale Tonight

The season finale of Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List airs tonight on Bravo. Kathy will be going to the Walter Reed Army Medical Center and visiting with injured soldiers. It looks to be a more serious episode than one would usually expect from this show. This season has been a bit uneven, but even at its worst, the show is still better than a large majority of what passes for television shows these days, especially in the reality arena. This is the only reality show that I watch, because I just can't stomach the rest. I fully understand, however, that one either loves Kathy or hates her. If you're lucky enough to be one of the people who love her, then you'll probably get an entertaining hour no matter what mess (probably of her own creation) she finds herself in.

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Unnatural Silliness

So I ran across a place on the web where someone was yet again claiming that gay marriage is wrong because it's "not natural." (I won't even go into the hilarity of this person claiming that gay marriage hurts him.) I was moved to give a response against my better judgment. Sometimes, I just get so riled that I have to respond to something I know should be too silly for me to respond to. Anyway, I decided to make a few changes and add it here as a public service message for those who are still embarrassing themselves by claiming such things and because I'm a big supporter of recycling. After the click, you can read all of my indignation in all of its glory.

I cannot believe that people still use the unnatural argument for homosexuality and/or gay marriage being wrong. If they thought about it for two seconds, they should realize that it's absolutely ridiculous. Not only is homosexuality found throughout nature in many species, but many of the things that these people support, use, and participate in are unnatural. When you get right down to it, marriage and religion are unnatural. I'm not saying these things are bad, but that raises another point: whether something is unnatural or not has absolutely nothing to do with whether it's good or bad. Our society would collapse if it had to let go of everything unnatural. In addition, the argument that something unnatural is necessarily bad makes pretty much everyone who uses it a flaming hypocrite because, if they live in a civilized society, it's guaranteed that they do something unnatural (like use a computer to spread their ridiculous arguments to people all around the world). Thus, the unnatural argument is a colossal failure for (not just one but) three reasons:

1. It's untrue.
2. It's completely irrelevant to whether something is good or bad.
3. It makes the user a hypocrite.

Therefore, it is my sincere advice that people stop using the "unnatural" reasoning as an argument against homosexuality. It doesn't arise from logic. It arises from bigotry. It doesn't work, and it doesn't make the user look good on top of it. I'm really only trying to save them from embarrassing themselves.

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Where Art Thou, Noah?

If I don't have sex soon, I'm gonna open up a can on someone!

Word is that Luke will be back on As the World Turns today to try to convince his mother to give her marriage another try after working on his dad yesterday. Once again, Noah will be nowhere to be found. Hopefully, he's stocking up on supplies for Luke's Grand Opening. After the click, you can find the Luke scenes from yesterday's show. All two minutes of them.

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Luke Goes Noahless Today

Word is that Luke will appear on As the World Turns today to try to help his parents mend their marriage. Noah is expected to be missing in action this week. No, he didn't change his mind (again) about joining the Army. He just won't be on the show. The one good thing about Luke not having his man around is that it won't be so obvious that they're living the lives of celibate monks at the Snyder monastery farm. After the click, there are clips of scenes from the last Luke and Noah episode with Luke being absolutely dorkalicious. I'm beginning to think Van Hansis isn't human with the way he actually makes a lot of this watchable. Or maybe the acting fairy just sprinkled him with extra fairy dust.

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The World Has Had Enough of Silly Love Songs

This week I fell in love once again. The object of my affection is a French film entitled Les Chansons d'amour, or Love Songs in English, and it's not silly at all. It's a musical, although only in the loosest sense of the term. There are no lavish musical numbers here, just people singing while walking, sitting, and talking. That may sound a bit silly, but it's all really low key and the characters ease into the songs rather than break out into them. At the beginning, Ismaël (played by Louis Garrel, on whom I've had a bit of a crush since The Dreamers) is in a relationship with Julie. They live together and they sleep together with Alice. There are problems in the relationship, which are rendered moot when tragedy strikes. After the tragedy, Ismaël must deal with his grief which he doesn't always do in the most constructive manner. Working through his grief leads him to find love once again in an unexpected place, the arms of Alice's new boyfriend's brother. The film could be described as unabashedly bisexual in it's content. However, it's less about sexuality and more about how there really are no rules to falling in love. We just do. After the click, there is a clip of my favorite scene and a bit more on the film.

I'm very disappointed in the way this film was marketed. It was made to seem like it was all about a threesome. The threesome, ironically, is only a third of the film, which is told in three distinct parts with each one having it's own title. The threesome is followed by grieving, which is then followed by finding love once again. If you're in the market for a film all about three people getting it on, then you'll be sorely disappointed. If, however, you are interested in a film about love, loss, grief, and family with the most romantic gay scene possibly ever, then this is the film for you. Well, it's the film for you if you know French or aren't allergic to subtitles.

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It's Official: Massachusetts Marriage Open to All

Today, Governor Deval Patrick signed the bill repealing the 1913 law which prevented non-resident same-sex couples from marrying in Massachusetts, as covered here and here. Now many couples don't have to trek all the way across the country to tie the knot! Hopefully, the coasts won't be the only options for betrothed gay couples in the future. Click here for full post

Luke and Noah: A Celebration of Celibacy

Due to being ridiculously busy last week, I actually missed posting about a day that Luke and Noah, the ever celibate gay couple, appeared on As the World Turns. On that day, Luke and Noah agreed to (GASP!) not have sex. Meanwhile across town, Luke's 15-year-old cousin was losing his virginity to a girl that he's known for a couple of months. The actor in that little scenario is 15. The actress is 21. This viewer is thoroughly disgusted. Luke and Noah will be on again today, most certainly not getting any action. There are clips after the click of the past two episodes involving Luke and/or Noah. And to anyone who was holding their breath until Luke and Noah had sex, I'm sorry I missed your funeral.















Don't mention gay sex! You'll make God cry!

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Trailer Trash

Exciting things are coming to movie theaters. After the jump, you can view trailers for the upcoming Harry Potter and James Bond films (with two of my favorite Daniels, Radcliffe and Craig), as well as the trailer for the film adaption of what is possibly the greatest work in comics. Watch and drool!


Quantum of Solace (Opens November 7, 2008)




Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (Opens November 21, 2008)




Watchmen (Opens March 6, 2009)

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Springfield Now an Option for Many Betrothed Gays

The Massachusetts House voted today to repeal the 1913 law which prevented same-sex couples residing in other states from marrying there. The Senate had previously voted to repeal the measure. Governor Deval Patrick has said that he will sign the bill repealing the law. When that happens, the state will join California in allowing non-residents to marry someone of the same sex. A major reason behind the repeal is that the state is expected to reap huge economic benefits from the action as couples converge on the state to wed. That's right, the bad economy turned out to be good for gays. It's too bad that it couldn't be done just because it's the right thing to do, but I think most of us will gladly take this victory regardless.

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Eureka!

The third season of Eureka begins tonight on Sci Fi at 9 Eastern. It's a quirky show about a town of geniuses that work for the government and the sheriff who tries to keep everything from blowing up when one of the super-science projects inevitably goes awry. Colin Ferguson winningly portrays the sometimes clueless but always reliable Sheriff Carter. He is also pretty easy on the eyes, as is Ed Quinn, who portrays the sheriff's rival, Nathan Stark. I appreciate eye candy as long as it's someone who can do his job competently, and these guys have no problem in that area. The show isn't going to win any major awards anytime soon, but, overall, it's an entertaining way to spend an hour in a somewhat barren season for television.

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She's Not the First One to Kiss a Girl

So after the umpthousandth time of hearing Katy Perry's "I Kissed a Girl," I just have to say that I'm not impressed. Musically, it's vapid. Lyrically, it's uninspired. Overall, Perry seems overly impressed with herself and the song reeks of that faux-lesbian-to-turn-guys-on routine, which is fine if your career goal is to end up in a volume of Girls Gone Wild. To top it off, it's already been done and much better. After the jump, you can watch the video for Jill Sobule's "I Kissed a Girl" from 1995, which is vastly superior. Oh, and "Ur So Gay" sucks, too.

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Estelle Getty: 1923 - 2008

Picture it: NBC, 1985. A little show called The Golden Girls debuts. In the show, a little old lady by the name of Sophia Petrillo moves in with her daughter and her roommates after her retirement home burns down. A little boy watches and laughs. He especially enjoys the antics of "that crazy old lady." The show continues as he enters his teens and he continues watching and laughing. Later, he watches reruns of the show as an adult and still laughs. Then, one day, the laughter stops in the wake of sad news. He then realizes that would probably be the last thing the woman behind "that crazy old lady" would want. And he watches and laughs.

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Dr. Horrible Ends on a High Low Note

The third and final act of Joss Whedon's Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog, with Neil Patrick Harris in the title role, debuted Saturday. It continues in the darker tone that was set in the second installment and proceeds to get even darker while still managing to provide laughs. I can't really get into what happened because I don't want to spoil anything for anyone who may happen to read this and plans to watch it at some point (and if that's you, then why haven't you already?!). Overall, I think it's a triumph. What began as a fairly silly concept turned into something that managed to be funny and dramatic with characters to cheer for and root against independent of what side of the hero/villain line they may stand. Of course, anyone who watched Whedon's Buffy the Vampire Slayer shouldn't be surprised. The show is only going to be up until midnight Sunday, so if you want to watch it for free, get to watching! Otherwise, you'll probably have to shell out some money down the road on a DVD or a download. Although it didn't escape my notice that the total time of the show when all three acts are added together is about the same as an hour long television episode without the commercials. I wouldn't be surprised to see it pop up on television at some point.

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Psyched

Psych begins its third season tonight on USA at 10 Eastern. Shawn and Gus are back to investigate more cases in a not so psychic manner. Honestly, if this show starred anyone other than James Roday and Dule Hill, I don't know if it would be one of my favorites. These guys just look like they're having too much fun, and they're cute, too. I don't know if I'll be able to break away from City of Villains, but I'll have it on nonetheless.

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Luke and Noah vs. Carly and Holden

Luke and Noah, the sexless gay couple on As the World Turns, will come across yet another couple that has had sex repeatedly after getting together long after the boys did. Yes, Luke will discover that his father, Holden, has been schtupping his mother's best friend, Carly. Will he be sad? Will he be angry? Will he even know what that means? Well, we'll find out today, and, unlike Wednesday, Noah will be tagging along. Speaking of Wednesday, after the jump you can see a clip of Luke's scenes interspersed with some Holden and Carly drama. I smell a tag-team cage match in the works!

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Double Your Pleasure, Double Your Fun

This weekend (Friday - Sunday) is a Double XP Weekend in City of Heroes and City of Villains. What's that mean? Well, basically that no one will see much of me. Really, it means that the rewards for defeating foes and completing missions are doubled allowing one to level a character much faster than usual. This weekend, I will be concentrating on my highest non-50 character, an Ice Blast/Cold Domination Corruptor (yeah, I know, Greek to you if you don't play) and trying to get her to the ultimate level for my second level 50 villain. (I already have two heroes.) Turnout is usually huge for these things so I'm looking forward to a lot of teaming. I'm also looking forward to reading all the gay chatter on the Pride channel. I mostly just lurk, but I pipe up sometimes if something really interests me. To all the heroes and villains out there that will be pushing the servers' capacities this weekend, good luck!

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Dr. Horrible is Definitely Not

The second episode of Joss Whedon's Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog is up, and this time there doesn't seem to be any major technological snafus as I've been able to successfully access it twice. It's a good thing, too, because this installment is too good to make people wait. I gave the first installment a bit of a mixed review. The second installment, however, is nothing but sweet, gooey goodness. The story takes something of a darker turn with Captain Hammer dating the girl of Dr. Horrible's dreams and proving himself to be a major tool in the process. The not-so-bad Dr. has also been given an ultimatum: if he wants to join the villainous society of his dreams, he'll have to take a life. With Captain Hammer having a less than gentlemanly attitude towards the object of his affection, the target becomes clear. Neil Patrick Harris and Nathan Fillion give superb performances in roles that could fall flat in lesser hands. After the first episode, it's gratifying to see the material rise to their level.

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Luke (and Noah?) Today

Surprisingly, Luke will apparently appear on today's As the World Turns. He appeared in a scene with his mother (UnLily, as some call her, including me) on Tuesday's preview for today's show. I don't know if Noah will be around or not as I didn't expect them to appear again until Friday. One thing of which I am pretty sure is that they won't have sex. Just in case their story does go forward, I've got a clip of Monday's show to help catch up after the jump.



If you ever need to catch up or relive the good times (which you have to go back a ways for), check out LukeVanFan's channel on YouTube.

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Dr. Horrible Has a Crashing Debut

Joss Whedon's online show, Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog, debuted Tuesday with a server-crashing turnout from viewers. I finally got to view the first episode Tuesday night after attempting to do so all day. Out actor Neil Patrick Harris stars as the title villain looking to conquer the world and the heart of the girl at the laundromat (Felicia Day). Nathan Fillion co-stars as Dr. Horrible's nemesis, Captain Hammer, a narcissistic superhero who is obviously overly fond of the glory of superherodom. All of them are prone to breaking out into song. It's a somewhat silly premise to be sure, and the material really isn't all that strong, but Harris rises to the challenge brilliantly and sells it like nobody's business, making it an enjoyable thirteen minutes overall. The second episode will debut July 17, with the final episode scheduled to be available July 19. You can download the episodes on iTunes or watch them at Dr. Horrible's website for free.

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Heads Massachusetts, Tails California?

The Massachusetts Senate has voted to repeal a law enacted in 1913 that has prohibited the marriage of same-sex couples from other states. The House is expected to vote on a repeal of the law later this week. The law prohibits marriages that would be illegal in the couple's home state. It was applied to same-sex marriage because it wasn't legal anywhere else in the nation. The legalization of same-sex marriage in California with no residency requirement seems to have spurred the state to action. It didn't hurt that repealing the law is expected to bring millions to the state as couples rush there to wed. We're lucky to be living at such a progressive time, but my hope is that gay people will be luckier years from now when their unions are accepted without question.

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A New Day for Luke and Noah

When we last left Luke and Noah on As the World Turns, they were reunited after Noah decided it wouldn't be a good idea to join the Army. He apparently came to this conclusion after realizing that the writers had to be smoking crack when they decided that he should enlist in the first place. Today, the boys are set to embark on a new story. Maybe it'll involve them finally getting some action, although I doubt it, since young gay guys in committed relationships apparently don't have sex in whatever universe this show exists. After the jump, you can catch up with last week's episode and hope, like the rest of us, that the crapfest is over and the new direction will be reminiscent of the glory days.

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The List Strikes Back!

I'm putting together another list this weekend. This time I'm counting down the Top Ten Horror Films. You might be thinking that Halloween would be a better time to bust this list out, but, being the horror fan that I am, I think anytime is a good time for a scary flick. Also, this gives you time to build up your collection, so you can have that Halloween horror marathon I know you're dying to show. I've included the year of release to prevent confusion with any of the crappy remakes that were inflicted upon the legacy of many of these films. What's on the list? You can find out after the jump and watch trailers of the films! I see you shiver with antici......pation.


10. The Exorcist (1973) - A little girl gets possessed by a demon, humps a crucifix, and vomits pea soup. It is iconic, creepy, and more than a little disturbing. This film tops many lists, and it is no doubt a great horror film, but the religious angle lessens it's impact a bit for me since I am not a religious person. Even so, it still packs a nice punch.



9. Carnival of Souls (1962) - An often overlooked B-movie, this film doesn't really contain a big scare. Rather, it's all about atmosphere with an eerie aura pervading throughout the film. It speaks to the fear of being a non-entity in a world with which you desperately long to connect and of which you desperately wish to be a part. The ending is no surprise, but the film is really all about the journey (and the detours it takes) to the destination for which it's named.



8. Jaws (1975) - A big fish eats a lot of people. It's premise is simple, yes, but told by one of the modern masters of story-telling, Steven Spielberg, it becomes a superb mix of creature feature and Moby Dick. I'm tempted to resent this film since it started the summer blockbuster era responsible for so much garbage, but every time that theme starts to play, I'm hooked.



7. Psycho (1960) - A cross-dressing psychopath takes a knife to anyone who stokes his desire or sticks his nose where it doesn't belong. Hitchcock is the master, and a second film of his, The Birds, barely missed making this list. Having a star like Janet Leigh being murdered early in the film was absolutely revolutionary at the time (and isn't that common even today). This film is a lesson that brave choices can pay huge dividends. It's also the reason why, when I take a shower, I either make sure the door is locked or bring a friend.



6. Night of the Living Dead (1968) - More than a zombie flick, this film is not only a great horror film, but also an important film for its sly racial commentary at a pivotal time for race relations. The choices of a black man as the hero and an ending that is anything but happy only add to impact of the film, considering when it was made. Social commentary may have been done elsewhere in horror, but I don't know if it's been done better.



5. Rosemary's Baby (1968) - There might be no greater fear than a mother's fear that something will be wrong with her baby. Coming somewhere not far behind would probably be the fear that someone we love and trust would betray us in a heinous fashion. This film speaks to both fears, and brutally so. And every time I watch Rosemary's one-night stand with Satan, I can't get those damn eyes out of my head.



4. Scream (1996) - Some might disagree with how high this film places, but I think it's a monumental achievement to be able to make people laugh one minute and scare the hell out of them the next. This film succeeds admirably in that department. It somehow manages to be a send-up of horror films and a legitimate horror film at the same time. That's no easy task. Also, like Rosemary's Baby, it could make people paranoid about who they let into their lives. I don't recommend watching them back to back despite their placement here. It's enough to make someone go hermit!



3. Suspiria (1977) - Horror as high art is how I describe this film. Each shot is almost like a painting with surreal lighting and disturbing graphics. Every time I watch it, I become more enamored. Don't get me wrong, there is plenty of horror to go around here, but if you enjoy a feast for the eyes as well as a good scare and an occasional gross-out, then this is the film for you.



2. The Haunting (1963) - This film is vastly underrated in the horror genre. That may be partially because it transcends horror and is a great film period. It's easily enjoyed by both horror fans and film fans in general, making it less of a horror staple. Those that make horror films today could learn a lot from watching it, however. We never really see the Big Bad, but the tension is tremendous. It's that tension that is sorely missed in more modern fare. It earns extra kudos for including a lesbian character at a time when that love dared not speak its name. Oh, its name still isn't spoken, but it's made quite clear nonetheless.



1. Halloween (1978) - It's not considered the original slasher flick, but, in my opinion, it's the film that perfected the concept. Black Christmas and The Texas Chainsaw Massacre came before, with Psycho providing an early inspiration. These films, however, contained murderers who were like spiders, setting up their webs someplace and snatching whoever happened to get too close. If you didn't get too close, you didn't have to worry. If you did get too close and got far enough away, you were probably safe. If Michael Myers decided you needed to die, on the other hand, he was going to track you down until you were dead. I find that to be more terrifying, especially when accompanied by that terrific score.



Recommended song download: Just Dance - Lady GaGa featuring Colby O'Donis

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On Notice

The second season of Burn Notice starts tonight on USA at 10 Eastern. When I first saw the ads for this show last year, it didn't seem like something in which I'd be interested. I happened to catch it a few times, and before I knew it, I was hooked. It's well-performed, witty, and just plain fun. If you're unfamiliar with the show, it's about a secret agent who has been booted by his agency and ends up in Miami where he has to deal with his mother and ex(?)-girlfriend. He becomes an equalizer of sorts, helping people who have been put into bad situations by bad people. Last season ended with him on the verge of finding out why he had been so unceremoniously ejected from the agency. I've got my fingers crossed that there won't be a sophomore slump. Join me, won't you?

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Nuke Day

Everyone's favorite (and the only) gay American soap couple, Luke and Noah, will be on As the World Turns today. In case you missed it last week, the guys were visited by one of my favorite artists, Cyndi Lauper. Appearing as herself, she performed "Into the Nightlife" and "True Colors" and also had a few scenes with the guys. The Emmy-winning actress more than held her own. If you missed it and would like to catch up, you can see the wonderful LukeVanFan's clips of the episode after the jump.








There was also a bonus Luke appearance the next day. Just to get you all caught up, here it is:



I don't have all the specifics, but I expect the aftermath of Ameera story to be over this week. The sooner they get away from anything to do with her storyline the better it will be for everyone.

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For the Birds

A classic doll gets her Hitchcock on, and I decide to get experimental. To find out what the hell I'm talking about, click on through to the other side.


Mattel is releasing a Barbie doll based on the Hitchcock classic, The Birds, later this year. Someone at Mattel should be commended for this, because it's an inspired choice. Finally, there will be a Barbie doll that pleases everyone, those that want to see her in glamorous outfits and iconic scenarios and those that want to see her get her eyes pecked out. I also can't help but think that Hitchcock would wholeheartedly approve. After all, Barbie would make a great Hitchcock blonde, the kind of woman with which he seemed to be obsessed in his films. Maybe in the future we'll get a Barbie on Mount Rushmore, a Barbie falling off a church (with spiral effects, of course), or Barbie in a shower getting stabbed by Ken in grandma drag. The possibilities are practically endless!

_________________________

I've decided to experiment a little this week with the blog. All week long, I'll be posting items that I find elsewhere and I think deserve a little attention, and I will, of course, be making my own comments on them. They'll be short little posts for the most part that I'm going to try to make throughout the day each day of the week. I don't want my five loyal readers to get too excited as I don't know if I'll continue that way, but we'll see how it goes. Anyway, I hope that everyone in the U. S. had a happy holiday weekend! 'Til next time, which shouldn't be nearly as long as usual.

Recommended Song Download: Let's Just Get Naked - Joan Osborne
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How's My Driving?

Okay, so I've been behind the wheel of this blog for several months now, and I've been posting weekly for a few months. Recently, I've noticed that I seem to have more than the two loyal readers that I used to. In an effort to make it easier for new visitors to check out older posts that might interest them and to help me evaluate where I've been and where I want to go with this thing, I'm posting a little review this week. Click on through for Established Disestablishmentarian 101.

I started at the beginning with my reasons for starting the blog.

I've posted about how much I loved Luke and Noah on As the World Turns, how much I was pissed off by the treatment of Luke and Noah, and how much I was disgusted by Luke, Noah, and Ameera.

I've written about my love of City of Heroes/City of Villains.

I've expounded upon my obsession with The Golden Girls.

I've told the ugly story of the guy with whom I fell in love in relation to Luke and Noah.

I've argued why Madonna belongs in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and listed Madonna's Top Ten Songs.

I've talked about hate groups that disguise themselves as family groups.

I've covered my distaste for weddings and celebrated the legalization of same-sex marriage in California.

I've detailed coming out to my best friend in college.

And I've reported how my mother tried to die on me (twice).

I haven't listed everything that I've written, just the more substantial entries that I've done. There are still tidbits scattered throughout that you can search for like Easter eggs, because if you're anything like me, you're looking for something to fill the time in between those annoying things that you have to do in order to keep this thing called life going in a somewhat respectable manner.

If you look over the blog, you can see that I've played with different formats and ideas, although you might not see just how much I've played with them, since I've scrapped a few failures. I'm a lot more savvy with this stuff now than when I started, although I still think I have a long way to go. I freely welcome comments and advice. (That little comments link down there isn't for nothing, you know.) If you have any views on anything I've said, feel free to send them my way. If you have any advice or ideas for things about which you might like to see me write or features for the page, let me know. I'm in a period of re-evaluation right now as far as the blog is concerned. I need to decide where to take it and on what kinds of things I want to concentrate. Don't panic, devoted fans! I have every intention of continuing it, so you'll have something to fill those two empty minutes every week of your lives if not more. I'm just not quite sure how yet. I am considering going full time instead of weekly. Oh, not that I will devote full time to it, just that I will post daily or on most days with posts that aren't that substantial, although I would still like to try to post something a bit more substantial once or twice a week. I'm in a bit of a fog right now and waiting for my lighthouse or foghorn to guide me out of it. Unfortunately, I have a feeling that the bulb may be blown and I won't be able to hear the horn over the sound of the screeching from those people being victimized somehow by the gays getting married.

And apropos of nothing, whoever came up with that "Viva Viagra" ad campaign should be taken out, blindfolded, and shot. On second thought, they shouldn't be blindfolded. They should have to see it coming.

Finally, since this is a look back, I've decided to repost all of my Recommended Song Downloads:

1234 - Feist

Big Spender (NorthxNWest Remix) - Shirley Bassey

Stand Back (Tracy Takes You Home Radio) - Stevie Nicks

Chelsea - Stefy

Mesmerized (Freemasons Radio Edit) - Faith Evans

Popular - Kristin Chenoweth (from the Original Broadway production of Wicked)

Satellites (Electro Mix Short) - September

Proud Mary - Tina Turner

Drives Me Crazy - Dolly Parton

You Should Be Dancing (Jason Bentley/Philip Steir Remix) - Bee Gees

Funplex - The B-52's

Cologne - Dolly Parton

Unchained Melody - Cyndi Lauper

Heartbeat - Madonna

Walking (Pull Edit) - Pocket Size

Into the Nightlife - Cyndi Lauper

Stamp Your Feet - Donna Summer

Give It 2 Me - Madonna

Hmmmmm. I think I might be gay.

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