Hoopla To Your Brain

SHORT FILM: "No Bikini," by Claudia Morgado Escanilla

2012-02-13T09:35:00.000-08:00

This movie is so innocent while it has the ability to make you think about a lot of things. For one, dividing genders and what society says a gender can or can't do. Pink is for Girls, Blue is for Boys. Skirts are for Girls, Pants are for Boys. Cheerleading is for Girls, Sports are for Boys... that kind of thing. And it all starts when these kids come out of the womb. When they'e placed in a pink or blue bin indicating their gender to when they get their 3-year-old birthday party filled with Tonka trucks or Dora the Explorer.

But what if all of that was taken away Switched a bit?

This short film, about a little girl who doesn't want to wear a bikini, is amazing, only because that sole decision made a whole difference.

Check it out.

The Nigel Thornberry Disney Takeover

2012-02-04T15:53:00.000-08:00

"When will my reflection show, who I am inside?" The jig is up, Mulan.

A genius person via tumblr has started this trend of GIFs where the 2D creations of Disney Movies have their faces replaced by Nigel Thornberry, the kook of a father and animal lover who backpacks his family around the world in the awesome show that was, "The Wild Thornberries."

I don't know why...

I don't know how... (well, I have a good feeling how, but the idea came about...)

But this trend has become one of Tumblr's greatest reasons for existence. It's these funny antics that is why you can't get enough of it.

At least for me.

CHECK IT.

Hercules. MY FAVORITE, hands down.

The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Can you imagine trying to cop her digits, then to see her turn around and...nevermind.

The Princess & The Frog. Magic at its worse...

The Little Mermaid. Nigel's mustache can pose as fins, I swear.

Thank you, Hannah! All of these photos are her genius work. Click here to see some more.

Aubrey Plaza Goes Batshit in this Music Video

2012-01-31T12:55:00.000-08:00

Father John Misty (aka J. Tillman, the drummer of the Fleet Foxes) has brought us something pretty interesting here for the music video of his debut single, "Hollywood Forever Cemetery Sings." Interesting, why?

Because the video brought us the likings of Aubrey Plaza going apeshit, a side of her we rarely see (or at all, if you're not an avid viewer of "Parks & Recreation"), and from the looks of it, a side that we can definitely get used to. But not enough to destroy her reputation as the Princess (or Queen, if you don't know anyone above and beyond in dry humor) of Deadpan.

The video for "Hollywood Forever Cemetery Sings," is head-tilting in a sense where you might not exactly know what's going on right away, or at all, but in which the sight of Aubrey Plaza showcasing something a little less dry and a little more psychotic (eating flowers, humping a lamp, and walking/crying with a bleeding nose to name a few) entertains you enough. Plus the song is kinda nice.

I dunno about you, but something tells me that Aubrey can be any character she wants to be, but remains deadpan either for comfortability or to keep us entertained. But every once in a while, she'll break the mold. Which is a pretty smart move, the element of surprise. Hollywood knows you one way. But when they see you step out every once in a while, they go "Ahhhhhh.... Look at that..."

Watch the vid over at EW.com (click link) since they're being mean and didn't include an embed code. Bleh.

source: Stereogum

Elle Varner? You Done Good, Kid.

2012-01-24T21:37:00.001-08:00

Have you guys heard Elle Varner's mixtape, "Controversial Lush," yet?

Man... I gave her some hard time because after a while of truly listening to "Only Wanna Give It To You," I really began to not like it. It sounds so off while also being too much, y'know? Too many highs and lows, and she changes her voice from verse to chorus to hook, each being a different way of singing. It drove me up the wall. Too much in one song? KILL.

But she's really talented, that much is true. So I summed up my faith in her and checked her mixtape out.

No way in hell am I disappointed. This mixtape is a fine piece of work, and it is easily the most freshest R&B mixtape/EP out there! Her voice, which I never stopped liking, is so gorgeous in a raspy and croony way that she pulls off very well. I believe she writed her own music too, so kudos to that. Lyrically, I enjoyed it. Not too simple, while not being too complex. Conversational Lyrics, I like to call them. And there's funny punk within some tracks, such as "WTF," a song that had me cracking up because she let loose and it was enjoyable.

A few other favorites include "Refill," which I wish were longer, "Feel Like A Woman," "Ghosts," "So Fly," which was fantastic when it came to matters of being self conscience with the standards of beauty, and "32 Flavors," which was the first single off the mixtape to perk my ears in interest.

Listen to (and download) the mixtape below! No regrets here.

Sigh... I see you, Elle.

Latest tracks by OMGElleVarner

"Red Tails," To Pave The Way for POC Actors? -Fingers Crossed-

2012-01-13T23:17:00.000-08:00

There's a buttload of hope that's riding on the film, Red Tails.

And with good reason, of course. First off, it's a film with an all star cast. But this cast is indeed special because it's a cast made up of Black actors. Yeah, sure there have been many movies with Black actors/actresses as the lead, but why this cast and this movie is special brings me to the next point. The movie is action packed. If you think about action films and the stars that bring the anticipation to the film, you think White males/females, such as Bruce Willis, Liam Neeson, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Angelina Jolie... so on, so forth. Black actors don't come to mind at all, mostly because Black actors haven't starred in action flicks, period. And if they have, please bring it to the attention of the public, because we're not convinced.

So, you've got the Black all star cast, you've got the black all star cast leading an action film... Now, you have the person behind the film who hopes that this movie opens the doors to many of us black folk who want to make it into this industry, George Lucas. Yes. THE MAN WHO BROUGHT US STAR WARS. And Indiana Jones. I mean, seriously. Imagination stimulating genius, George Lucas. He has written the story, about a group of African American pilots who have been benched for most of World War II based on their color, who finally get the chance to serve for their country when they are called into the skies to fight against the Nazis. And from what it seems, George Lucas really wants to shed light for the POC (People of Color) in the film industry.

Apparently, the movie has been refused by many studios in helping him bring the story to life, and part of the reason was because the cast was all Black. If you don't believe me, watch the interview he did with Jon Stewart for The Daily Show below:

I mean... Thank God for people like George Lucas, for he has been trying to get this movie made, not only because he believes in it, but because he wants to give some passage to the people who are just as gifted, but aren't given the chance. Gosh, 23 years of working on it? Damn. It's always a breath of fresh air to see Black people push through a barrier that are still placed in front of us because of our color, even with years and years of segregation supposedly behind us.

How many times have I seen a film and say to myself, "I could have played that part..." when I see a female character that I definitely could have played, had the slot been open to any girl and not just a White/Caucasian girl. I love to act, have been doing it for a long time, and as someone who dreams of being on the big screen someday, it is discouraging to notice that there's a slight chance that may not happen the way I want, which means I'm not entirely given a range. Because face it, many Black actors that you've seen in the for front have been movies made for Black people, solely. How about a movie made for white folks starring some black people as well? There are many Black people that want to step out of that box. Those Black actors are unfortunately placed in the sidekick/supporting character sideline.

Take Anthony Mackie for example. That man has been acting for a while. I've watched him in a few films, and he's got the goods to be major Hollywood gold. But so far, I've only seen him star in Black oriented films, and seen him appear or take the role of a supporting character, behind major white actors. I have no idea when he'll get his shine, but he, among others, need to have it.

It is great, though, to see some actors take the role of a character meant for a white person, such as Donald Glover, who did a read of his character, Troy, in Community, who was supposed to be white. Apparently, he did such a great job, they decided Troy was going to be Donald, who happens to be black, and who happens to be one of the best characters on the show.

We've gotta break mold here. Black actors are just as top notch as white actors, and should be given the chance and choice to expand to roles not so cliche of generic. So when I see films like "Think Like A Man," with the same Black actors who could be stepping way outside the box, especially since they've been in the Hollywood game for years, it gets me a tad frustrated.

Let's support this movie. I know I will. I believe in the obvious and behind message of it all, and I fully support it. Do you?

"To the last bullet, to the last plane, to the last man! We fight! (We fight!) We fight! (We fight!) We fight!"

...I'm sorry, that chant is very uplifting.

Style Mama: Nadia Aboulhosn

2012-01-10T17:25:00.000-08:00

She made the top out of a scarf. A SCARF. I nearly died from amazement.

I'm not a fashion junkie, but don't be fooled entirely. I like to indulge in fashion magazines such as Nylon, Glamour, and Allure to name a few, I will find myself searching for the latest trends to try or the trends that have fallen in the "To-Do...Not!" list, and I happen to be quite fond of fashion bloggers, any shape and any size alike. Seeing the style of other people around the world and how they assemble their everyday attire is fun and inspirational, don't you think?

Well, not too long ago, I came across a fashion blogger who literally took my breath away on site from the outfit I caught her wearing. I searched for her blog and in a matter of seconds, I found it, spending a whole hour analyzing her quotes, reading her passage to the inspiration of her outfits, and then the outfits themselves, which always made me go "Oh, wow... That's sa-weeeet." Her look, overall, is amazing. She has this Bohemian vibe that runs at your eyes, with dark brown/black hair falling over her shoulders and mid-back, she has skin that's a pale olive tone, her eyes are excrutiatingly smoldering, with a make up fresh face that's envious. She has long legs, a tiny waist, and the best part? She's gorgeously thick. Wide hips, thick thighs, and a booty that people wish to have, her figure is THE poster ad for the ideal womanly figure.

There are times when I think, "Holy crap, that outfit and pose is badass!" And then there are days when I go, "That outfit can be rocked by anyone... It's simple and cute, but what makes it stand out for her and her alone is that smile." Did I mention Nadia has a smile that is radiant beyond words? Fresh, friendly, and fun, her smile exemplifies the Three F's and enunciates her outfit even more. Nadia's got the whole package, and in this blogosphere of numerous fashion bloggers alike, plus size, thin, black, white, she does an amazing job at standing out.

I was lucky enough to get the opportunity to ask her a few questions. Well, she loved the questions so much, that she made a video for me and for her blog as well. Check it out!

One of the things that I adore Nadia for is her fearlessness to strut whatever she puts on, whether she gets comments about it, in which she's told her readers on her blog that she undoubtedly has. It's not easy to represent yourself through what you wear, especially when you think that because of your size, you shouldn't wear one thing, or because of your personality, to wear something not similar to it would be wrong... The thing is, we have to learn to appreciate the person inside of us that dresses the person on the outside. That in itself can be just as complicating, because we want to find a way to express ourselves but we usually don't know how.

It's being fearless, unapologetic, creative, and down right ballsy that brings a true fashionista, or any person willing to showcase who they are, to life. And with Nadia, someone who is not only simply beautiful on the outside, but plain ol' awesome on the inside, that came easily.

Aside from her beauty, she also has a work ethic toward her fashion that is pretty sick. Always reminding us that she's all about making her dreams come true, they slowly are, for she's been featured on countless fashion blogs, was chosen along with another plus size beauty, Heather Hazzar, to be the plus sized models for American Apparel, has chosen fashion looks for Ashley Stewart, models regularly for Seventeen Magazine, and so much more. Her buzz is getting louder, and it's literally only a matter of time before she blows EVERYONE away. No bullshit.

There's no doubt that admiration and love is what she deserves for doing what many dare to do.

G'on, girl. The world is watching.

(all photos courtesy Nadia's blog. CLICK HERE to check her out!)

Funny or Die Brings In The Musical Funny

2011-12-17T11:41:00.000-08:00

I saw this video while prowling Donald Glover's website, for he posted it up on there. And I didn't know what I was going to watch, honestly. But I always watch what Donald posts on his blog because I know he's a funny dude and I respect his craft. That craft includes what he finds enjoyable enough to post on his blog. But at the same time, I really do admire Funny or Die for always making me laugh, and doing so by featuring some of my favorite celebritites and/or comedians. So me clicking that play button was bound to happen, for either or reasons, you know?

48 Roses - Mariachi El Bronx from Mariachi El Bronx

And I'm so glad I did, because I enjoyed this so much! Starring comedian/actor David Neher, who I recognized automatically as being the super nice science guy, Todd, in "Community," who everyone was so hard on (poor dude!), I didn't know where the direction of the video was going, till I continued watching.

Let's not forget, Mariachi El Bronx's "48 Roses," was such a great song to be played during this video. Man. I loved it.

I hope you do, too.

Man Candy #9: Michael Fassbender

2011-12-05T19:23:00.000-08:00

There is something so sexy about a man that walks with power in his stride. His hands are balled up in fists, or crossed over his broad chest, or maybe one if crossed under the other arm while that arm is holding his hand which is cupping his chin because he's in deep observation... A man that walks swiftly but powerfully across a room, that has eyes that shift comfortably and scans you when you're introduced to him. His grip, firm. His smile, charming but intense. But when he smirks, you swoon. Hair, gelled back. No stubble whatsoever, which though I hate since I'm a gal that adores facial hair, he makes it look good?

That's Michael Fassbender.

Not only does this man have the physique of a powerful man who knows what he wants and humble brags about it, but he has the attitude that shows in his stride and also has the reputation to back that powerful aura up. It's all there! He's an engaging actor who I loved seeing on the screen when I watched "X-Men: First Class," he's a suave looking man who doesn't gallop around from magazine to magazine talking about his personal life but you slightly want to KNOW about it, and got damn, is he smooth.

Watching the trailers for his new films, "A Dangerous Method," and "Shame," which both involve intense sexual desire, you just have to thank God he was cast in them, because no one can make desire and sex look as great as Michael Fassbender as of late. This 34-year-old man (so young! I love it) can woo you in a foul sweep.

I don't want to stop seeing his face. It's too alluring.

And that is why he is the 9th Man Candy.

Sucker Punch, Y U SUCK SO BAD, BUT MUSIC SO GUD?

2011-12-02T23:05:00.000-08:00

I will forever kick myself in the head for spending $12.50 to see the film that I was so hype for, "Sucker Punch." Because, naturally... If you are very fond of action done RIGHT, and not to mention females who look badass doing it while keeping their sex appeal to an all time high and conquering robotic army men, dragons, and huge shanghai looking warriors, you're going to get hype. NATURALLY.

So when I actually see the film, right from the beginning I am so disappointed. The storyline is so half-assed, it's incredible. Throughout the whole movie I'm in the theatre sighing under my breath, sucking my teeth, rolling my eyes and exclaiming things like, "WHAT THE F*CK?!" "That makes no friggin' sense." "Oh, lord." "Why did they DO that?!"

The graphics? Beyond boss. There was no disappointment whatsoever in the graphics because they went IN. I actually think they focused too much on the graphics when they should have divided it 50/50 graphics and storywise. BUT HEY. Who am I to speak, heh?

But while I'm trolling YouTube, looking for new tunes, I come across some Sucker Punch FMV's (Fan Made Videos), and after I watch one....

I watch another.

And another.

Aaaaaand another!

Oh, wait. I'm sorry. Is this a deleted scene? My bad. Why did they cut this out? Vanessa Hudgens needs my digits. For reals. And Jena Malone, hubba hubba...

Through visuals and soundtrack, this movie could have scored BIG. The potential it had... Makes me sad, y'know?

Can't judge a wack ass book by its top notch cover.

Start Christmas Correctly With Christmas Music's Comeback

2011-12-01T11:29:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas.

Simply put, it's one of those holidays that can easily cheer me up because the festivities that come along with it--celebration of snow, gifts from the ones you love, kissing under the mistletoe, the decorations and lights--is exciting and cheerful. Call me a sucker for happy and smiles, but so be it. I love the happiness that fills the streets and hearts of everyone who loves and wants to celebrate Christmas like me.

But the one thing that puts me in a great mood for Christmas is the music, and I must admit that there has been a lack of great quality Christmas music for a long time. GLEE! came out with a Christmas album, as did Taylor Swift and Justin Bieber, who is the latest contender. But none of them made me feel jolly. None of them brought me the thing I call The Nostalgic Whirlpool.

None but one.

"Haven't Met You Yet," singer Michael Bublé managed to bring the spirit of Christmas that had vanished a long time ago amongst the materialistic chaos that replaced it, and I am so thankful.

His voice, which manages to stay soulful and traditional aids in keeping the Christmas cheer alive, with the sounds of the instruments that bring the harmonic sounds together, and with the help of his background singers that take us back to when Christmas was peacefully enjoyable: in the mid 90s... Songs like, "It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas," seems like an upgrade to a timeless song, while his adaptation of popular Christmas songs such as Mariah Carey's "All I Want For Christmas Is You," songs less pop filled and more romantic and smooth. Shania Twain joins him in a duet for "White Christmas," which sounds stunning with the combination of these two great voices, and Michael includes an original Christmas song of his own, "Cold December Night," which is a ballad that can easily give you the feeling of warming some hot cocoa and sitting by the fire with someone special. Aside from the music being absolutely brilliant, showing off Bublé's voice as the masterpiece it is, these timeless songs are also very nostalgic, giving you a warm feeling that Christmas is all about. Reminding us that the holiday cheer is still alive, Michael Bublé's Christmas album is a must purchase.

And if you're like me, who relies on not only the decorations, the spirit, but also the music, than I don't even need to emphasize how much you'll enjoy this work of Christmas art.

Purchase his album HERE (iTunes) or HERE (Disc-Purchase)
Preview a few tracks HERE

Let's Talk Books

2011-11-22T18:04:00.000-08:00

I haven't digested a book in such a long time.

The kind that you pick out from Barnes & Nobles that seems interesting on first sight, and in which you find out after reading the synopsis, is indeed interesting, and you mentally pat yourself on the back for choosing it.

Impeccable instinct for greatness, no?

The other day, let's say 25 days ago, I bought "The Hunger Games," because I want to see the movie, so I feel it's right to read the book first.

Man oh man O'Reilly, I'm liking it so far.

Think of North America, aka the United States, as a now communist Capitol called Panem, a place that has become tragic in ruins due to the cruel and harsh government, that is then separated into 12 Districts. In order to keep the districts from revolting, the government has one girl and one boy of every district between the ages of 12 to 18 compete to the death against each other called "The Hunger Games," which is filmed on live television for everyone to see. Katniss, the 16-year-old heroine of the book, steps in when her newly 12-year-old sister, Prim, is called to be a contestant of the games. To save her life, Katniss offers herself in her sisters place, and from then on, the book goes deep into Katniss's survival in The Hunger Games.

I haven't gotten the chance to fully engross myself in it, which I plan to do tomorrow under my covers since it's that time of the year where under the covers is the best spot in the house (if under, or next to, the heater is already taken).

It's the kind of book that I think I needed to get back into the motion of being an avid reader again. It's doing me justice. And this semester of school has been so smooth and unstressful that I feel I have the right to actually sit down, read a book, and not worry if I'm wasting my time since I have hmwk.

Not to mention, the movie has such a great ensemble cast, from Jennifer Lawrence who has grown on me so well, to Josh Hutcherson who I saw grow up on screen, to Elizabeth Banks who is adorably funny, Stanley Tucci who is one of the most charming actors in my book, Woody Harrelson who is a regulating badass, to effin' LENNY KRAVITZ?! If I wasn't interested in reading it before, the cast alone would have had me racing to buy it then.

LENNY KRAVITZ.

After that I shall read "A Dirty Job," by Christopher Moore, about a man that after having a baby girl, has people he loves dying all around him, and then must take on the role of being the Grim Reaper. Christopher, as I noticed upon reading the first two chapters, has a great way of turning this tragedy into a sarcastic bundle of humor. MUY BUENO.

Many of his books have a black comedy turn to it. Usually involving the paranormal fads we fall in love with or with death in general, which are situations that would irk us, he brings them out and turns them into enjoyable books, for unemployable subjects...

And being able to do so is never a bad thing. It can actually be tricky. So if you do it and do it right, such as Christopher Moore, then you deserve praise. In which he gets in book sales.

I plan to purchase more of his books. Just after I finish this one. In-completion is not flattering.

Another book I'm going to have to purchase, just out of curiosity and critical acclaim. Many magazines that I read that actually have sections in which they review recent books released to the public that are practically grabbing them by the hair in attention have been going apeshit for a book called, "The Marriage Plot."

Apparently, the is the most recent work from author Jeffrey Eugenides, who has written many critical acclaim books (just found out one of them was "The Virgin Suicides," in which the movie starring Kirsten Dunst and Josh Hartnett was based off of) but took a long hiatus, hence his epic return with "the Marriage Plot." The book, about a love triangle not similar to the Archie comics but similar to Bridget Jones diary in some sort of sense, has been getting critical acclaim. The look of the book alone is interesting, and the fact that it's the book everyone keeps talking about from magazines to book clubs, it seems like it will become a new purchase pretty soon. Not sure when, but soon.

Last but not least is a book I had the pleasure of sampling many times and in which I grew excited over for every sampling because I just KNOW the lengths of how great this book will be.

First off, let me just get off my chest that I love and look up to Mindy Kaling. Seriously. Not only is she hilarious, but she's odd, quirky, has a shrill voice that resembles a girl that hasn't embarked on the journey of puberty yet, is small and petite, isn't skinny but struts her chubby size (as she's classified herself), loves fad diets and messy celeb scandals and isn't afraid to say that. In a day and age where everyone wants to seem chill and not into that "superficial business," Mindy OWNS it.She really doesn't care if you think it's superficial. Hell, SHE thinks it's superficial. But she admits to the guilty pleasure. Not only that but she's had such a journey to where she came from, where she's been and where she is now. From the samples I've read alone, I've come to the conclusion that 1) We could be best friends. Literally. This book is so best friend-y... 2) Her advice is spot on. Especially when she talks about her not understanding or wanting to be a part of one night stands... her reasons were legit. 3) She has an awesome job. Comedy writer, hello! 4) She's adorable, even in writing. When your cuteness spews throughout the pages of your book, you've got a major boost of cuteness. 5) She's underrated, unfortunately. But fortunately because it keeps her grounded. She's aware of being known but unknown, giving us the level of fame she'd like to obtain in one of the chapters of her book.

Sigh . . . Oh Mindy. "Is Everyone Hanging Out without Me?" will be read and devoured and instilled into my brain.

Let's see if I can read these four books before the year ends.

Reign of the Pixar Redhead!

2011-11-22T17:27:00.000-08:00

Literally just a few minutes ago, I saw the trailer to Pixar's latest endeavor, "Brave." And after being teased with fan art, folklore looking movie posters, and the occasional, "Brave to be the best of Pixar bunch..." headlines from a few of my favorite blogs, I finally got a trailer to back all that action up.

Merida is a skilled archer and impetuous daughter of King Fergus and Queen Elinor. Determined to carve her own path in life, Merida defies an age-old custom sacred to the uproarious lords of the land: massive Lord MacGuffin, surly Lord Macintosh and cantankerous Lord Dingwall. Merida's actions inadvertently unleash chaos and fury in the kingdom, and when she turns to an eccentric old Witch for help, she is granted an ill-fated wish. The ensuing peril forces Merida to discover the meaning of true bravery in order to undo a beastly curse before it's too late.

I really do enjoy the trailer... Visually Pixar never fails, of course. And when it comes to the story, Pixar gives you a well in depth movie that does little in failing us, as well. A story about being put into a mold that you hate to be placed into and breaking out of that mold to do the things you want to do and to use the freedom you have... It's a story all of us are facing. Just not faced with Kings and Queens as parents and living in an era with no toilets... Or panties, for that matter.

I'm thoroughly entertained by it, but wanting more of what the story is about, which means it had the balls to being a hit trailer. Hit trailers give you just enough to want and to see more, but not EVERYTHING, because they want you to be filled with suspense and curiosity, and in which you will, which urges you to purchase your theater ticket opening night. The only thing is, I know there is a witch and a wish involved, in which they barely presented in the trailer, which could be a good or bad thing. I think adding it would have helped in getting people excited, as compared to it just looking like a movie about a girl wanting to rebel because she's better than the boys. And did you see Merida's hair?! Oh my word, I paused the video around the 0:40 mark and gazed at that mane of red. That beautiful mane of red. I wanna pet it. I wanna braid it. Gah, I just want it! I'm a freak for redheads, sorry.

Also, the nerve of some people to compare it to "How To Train Your Dragon," just because you see a few vikings roaming around the film when dragons have absolutely NOTHING to do with the storyline... C'mon, people. Broaden your horizons, why don't you. Step away from comparisons, and just enjoy it for what it is, yeah?

ANYWHO... Will you be watching?

NEW FAVE: Girl on Guy

2011-11-22T17:11:00.000-08:00

Honestly, I know a crumb sized amount of people that listen to podcasts. I know a pea sized amount of people that KNOW about podcasts but in which don't really pay attention to them, because to be frank, finding a really good podcast to dedicate and hour and change of your life to is difficult. I used to listen to them a long while ago when I got into the gist of iTunes. Then I stopped because there really was nothing great to listen to

Until now . . .

Aisha Tyler, this beautiful tall glass of woman who you've seen hosting the long ago show Talk Soup on E!, kicking ass in the movie "Balls of Fury," and who stars as Lana Kane on FX's hit animated TV show "Archer," has used her talents to bring us the podcast series, "Girl on Guy." Ooh. Kinky.

But all jokes aside, the stand-up comedian/actress/nerd heroine/author has brought us a refreshing podcast that I've been listening to for the past two days. She brings us topics that only the WHOLE PACKAGED FEMALE can bring: Sex (duh), girl talk, men, video games, comics, zombies, music, food, booze (and lots of)... I mean, I only discovered these podcasts last night. Yes, not exactly two days ago but it seemed that way. But regardless, I listened to it right before going to bed, and made sure I listened to it as I was trying to pry myself out of bed.

And I must say, Aisha may be easy on the eyes, but her voice is engaging. And not to mention the way she talks, which is mega relatable with a slap of fun, potty-mouthing, and a shitload of "DUDE!" She brings in some awesome guests, such as ?uestlove, Chris Hardwick (his podcast episode is one of my faves), Zachary Levi, and even the women of Archer, another episode which I looooved. It's cool when she tlks wit hthe guys, but when she's surrounded with the girls, especially girls that are just as whimsical and raunchy as she is... ENTERTAINMENT.

If you've got iTunes, download her podcasts HERE.

Visit her website HERE.

And follow her on her Twitter and Facebook.

Just... check her out. Aisha nevers fails to be awesome.

According to Fat Joe, Hip-Hop Is Run By Gays

2011-11-09T13:04:00.000-08:00

Now, before you click on this post ready to feel a certain way toward Fat Joe and what he has to say about your favorite genre of music and the artists that shape it, hear him out. I clicked the play button ready to hear his sentiment; a household named rapper back talking his musical community...

Until, of course, I watched the video. And a lot of what Fat Joe says is not nonsense, but truth.

If you aren't in the mood to watch the video, Fat Joe explains that there are, indeed, gay folks in the hip-hop community. Some are too afraid to come out due to their status in the industry and what it can do to their reputation, but in the meantime they bash the same people who they are. And to Fat Joe, it's sad to him that in the year 2011, hip-hop rappers and their fans are too afraid to step out and say that they are gay. And that we may not know it, but even the pioneers and moguls of hip-hop can be gay, as well.

I have absolutely no doubt in that. It seems a bit impossible for there to be absolutely no such as gay folks in hip-hop. Many video vixens and famous prostitutes who have done sexual acts for said rappers have come clean in autobiographies and such, stating that they've seen who some rappers affiliate with when it comes to sex... It doesn't stop at just women.

What's most sad is that there is so much homophobia in the black community alone, that if there were to be any hip-hop artists or moguls who came out, respect would be lost. And it shouldn't be that way, of course. But, it is. Which is what Fat Joe is touching tone with in this video.

Do you agree?

NEW MUSIC (VIDEO): Childish Gambino's "Bonfire"

2011-10-31T10:41:00.000-07:00

Halloween has been not too exciting for me as of late. Though it's only 1:30pm. But apparently, Halloween is very eventful for Sir Donald Glover.

He's been so generous at to disclose the location of his secret show that he's been talking about all last week on Twitter, and it's tonight at 9PM at Brooklyn Bowl. Tickets are available at the door at 6PM, people. So if there are any NYers that didn't get a chance to score his concert tickets for this Thursday at Terminal 5 (womp womp, I got my tickets in tow!), then take advantage NOW.

Aside from the above. he also released the official video for "Bonfire." And though the song goes hard and isn't all that scary, the video, since it is released on Halloween, HAD to be. And Donald goes in...

Get More: Childish Gambino, Music, More Music Videos

You never fail us.

Happy Halloween, folks :)

JUST MOVE.

2011-10-21T23:36:00.000-07:00

This made me happy, so I wanted to share what little happiness I got from seeing someone... move.

MOVE from Rick Mereki on Vimeo.

FLORENCE + THE MACHINE MEGAPOST!

2011-10-20T14:23:00.000-07:00

First off... In case you fell desperately in love with the Florence + the Machine's "Shake It Out," their latest album, then great news is here to be bestowed upon you. There is an official video to the masterpiece that is their second single, and it is classic Florence. I tell you. Beautiful in one dimension, headscratchingly interesting in another... Florence has delivered. I personally love the way she sways and moves her body. It's truly enticing...

NOW... For the best part of this post.

So, you know how the album is supposed to have a Halloween release in the UK and a November 1st release in the US? You know how it's supposed to be released? Well, it still is. But they have been so kind as to give us a full album streaming of "Ceremonials"!!!!!

-does backflip after cartwheel after high kick after roundhouse-

How effin' awesome is that?!

Unfortunately, I cannot transfer the album streaming here, but in order to enjoy said streaming, click the here button.

Excuse me whilst I jam...

Hoopla's Latest Trend: Needlepoint Loafers/Mules

2011-10-20T13:16:00.000-07:00

Slowly but surely, fashion is seemingly becoming much more interesting to me in a way unimaginable. The ideas I construct in my brain for outfits I want to wear, places I need to shop, accessories I need to have, a collection of wardrobe that I need to build... Don't get me wrong, fashion is in its own way important for everyone, because it has a way of impacting your style. No matter who you are, when there's a trend that you see interesting, you want to board the bandwagon. And whether you're nonchalant about boarding, as if it's no biggie, or you embrace the trend head on!

So here is one trend that has been growing before my eyes rapidly and in which I want to partake in:

Loafers/Mules.

Following Matchbook Magazine on Instagram, I saw a fabulous picture of these loafers and automatically fell in love and wanted for a heaping flow of money to fall upon my head so I can run and buy them. Loafers are simply complex. Comfy, flat, able to be paired with jeans, khakis, or even slacks! These loafers especially are needlepoint, so the design was carefully threaded into the shoes! Such craftsmanship should be celebrated. Unfortunately, for those involved in the Student Struggle movement, these shoes are stemming at $147.00. But that doesn't mean I don't advise you to save some money to purchase them. Seriously, they're too sexy to give up. That's not wise.

Below are a few more Needlepoint Loafers that I have my absolute eye on. One day when I've got all the money in the world, I will inject my closet with loafers upon loafers... for good measure.

Aren't these gorgeous?! OMG, I'm getting so excited looking at them. slip on, beautifully detailed, and top notch. Though expensive, they seem so worth the money.

Click here to purchase some!

Walking Dead Hit

2011-10-17T14:59:00.001-07:00

Craziness! The Season 2 premiere of "The Walking Dead," shattered records upon records for Cable television, having racked in 7.3 million viewers, being the most watched television telecast in history. HISTORY! Which makes me wonder, because didn't High School Musical break that record? Didn't it rack in about a little over 15 million viewers? Pft. What do I know exactly? I just could have sworn...

Many sworn fans were kind of iffy about the premiere, ever since the producer behind the genius, Frank Darabont, called it quits and dipped. But luckily, not only did it get a surprisingly great response from the fans, it attracted tons of new fans, as you can tell by the number.

But anywho, I haven't seen the season premiere just yet. I plan on it though, thank God for DVR. But ruin nothing for me!

NEW MUSIC / (VIDEO): Azealia Banks', "212"

2011-10-15T18:51:00.000-07:00

Oh, she is totally adorable.

I told myself I'm gonna start keeping my eyes and ears and attention spans in full bloom so I'm not oblivious to anything anymore. I told you. So I came across this gyal they call Azealia Banks who makes a song about c*nts and d*cks called "212" while looking so innocent in a Mickey Mouse sweater and numerous pigtails, a certified club banger.

This Harlem bred 19 year old is able to keep you entertained with not only the beat, not only the words, but with her ability to give you three different types of voices. Sounds kooky, yes. But it works. You have to wonder: how does she do it? Maybe it helps that she went to LaGuardia High School of the Arts?

Listen and pelvic thrust, my friends.

I am definitely keeping an eye of you, Azealia.

Phoenix Jones: Real Life Superhero, Detained!

2011-10-13T10:05:00.000-07:00

Holy cow... Real life costumed hero Phoenix Jones was arrested Sunday night in Seattle for "allegedly" assaulting people while in the face of danger with pepper spray. Apparently he thought a fight had broke out. And being the city's hero, he ran to go do his job: save some people. Unfortunately... There was no fight. And now he's being punished for trying to do good.

This is what he said on his Facebook addressing the issue:

"MY WIFE AND I HAVE DECIDED TO POST THE VIDEO OF THE RECENT INCIDENT THAT HAS BEEN IN THE NEWS THE VIDEO WILL BE POSTED IN ITS ENTIRETY UNEDITED RAW FOOTAGE THERE WILL BE SCREEN SHOTS TO BETTER VIEW THE CRIME I WITNESSED AND STOPPED ALSO IF YOU KNOW THE PERSON INVOLVED IN THE HIT AND RUN/ATTEMPTED MURDER OF THE MAN I SAVED PLEASE CONTACT YOUR LOCAL POLICE (I HAVE A SCREEN SHOT OF THE LICENSE PLATE AND WILL PROVIDE IT TO THE POLICE ALONG WITH YOUR STATEMENT) AS SOON AS MY LEGAL TEAM HAS FULLY REVIEWED THE VIDEO I WILL POST IT FOR YOU HERE (HOPEFULLY WITHIN THE NEXT FEW HOURS)"

It sucks at the circumstance, but I think it's really cool that someone is balls enough to become a city hero. It was actually in January when he came to fame after actually stopping a grand theft auto! Since then, he's become a Seattle household name.

A 23-year-old, married, masked Superhero.

Seriously, that's . . . pretty kickass.

Dangerous, of course, because this dude doesn't have actual superpowers unless you consider his reflexes for when he's fighting, but nonetheless: kickass.

-------------------------

UPDATE: EVERYONE! Seattle Superhero Phoenix Jones, whose real name is Benjamin John Francis Fodor, has unmasked himself! CLICK HERE to see what the hero looks like!

Source: Huffington Post

Taxi Driver Homage, ft. Chloe Moretz & Keanu Reeves

2011-10-12T21:50:00.000-07:00

"Taxi Driver" scene with Jodie Foster and Robert de Niro is paid homage by Chloe Moretz and Keanu Reeves for Harper Bazaar Magazine.

This is pretty slamming.

Throwback Music: Mariah Carey's "Fantasy (Remix) ft. ODB"

2011-10-12T20:04:00.000-07:00

I have this song on my iPod, respectively. And it's one of those blessed songs that when on shuffle, I'll pass when I see it's the next song that is about to play, but in which I second guess myself while listening to the song I skipped to, and go back to listen because I feel a certain way for skipping it. It deserves better than a skip.

In other words, sure guilty pleasure. Can't help yourself. "Lemme get a little taste..." kind of situation we're talking about here.

There's many reasons why I skip "Fantasy," then jump back to it 30 seconds into the next song.

The Nostalgia Whirlpool: When I was younger, my sisters and I were not allowed to watch "The Idiot Box aka TV," and so we had to spark the creative parts of our brain and find ways to entertain ourselves. So here we have this bomb ass 8 track. Like... That 8 track was everything. If we weren't playing computer games, playing UNO or Go Fish, playing with our dolls, we would fill that 8 track and jam.

The 8 Track would consist of TLC, The Fugees, The Spice Girls, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, Michael & Janet Jackson (DAMITA JO!! -insert fangirl scream here-), and of course, Mariah Carey.

We especially had the good albums. Celine Dion's "Colour of Love," Janet's "The Velvet Rope," Mariah's "Daydream"... So when we'd blast those songs through our two stereo speakers, my 4 year old sister and the 8 year old me would don our heads with pantyhose and chache around the house while listening to these divas sing and sing along to them.

ESPECIALLY "Fantasy."

The beat's fun and playful, the lyrics are cute, and Mariah was so beautifully innocent yet powerful through her vocals, it was irresistible. Back when she wasn't trying to keep herself relevant by creating drama for herself, like now, all she had to do was sing, and she'd have little girls all over the world, like me for example, singing with her. Because for 3 minutes, we could be Mariah Carey.

This is why this song is today's throwback.

Black "Family" Sitcom Triumph: Reed Between the Lines

2011-10-12T18:08:00.001-07:00

Last night I had the pleasure of making it home just in time to miss the BET Hip Hop Awards (I never support coonery) and to catch the premiere of BET's latest effort, "Reed Between the Lines," starring Tracee Ellis Ross (!!!!!) and Malcolm Jamal Warner (!!!!!!). But before you wonder why the premiere of this show, or why this show in general, is important, well . . .

We all know BET's a joke. In it's own right. A channel that introduces the masses to Black Entertainment is lacking quality. Has been for a while, to the point where Blacks themselves shun the channel all together, unless it's to watch "The Game," or another repeat of "Love & Basketball," two things BET plays repeatedly all to gain some viewers, and in this case, it works. And lately, with only "The Game," their terrible attempt at a black sticom, "Let's Stay Together," the reality hit/teensy bit of connery, "College Hill," and their terrible version of TRL, "106th & Park," BET is known for re-runs, which is more entertaining than the line-up they already have.

So here you have a show that is not only new, it features two stars we root for and are very familiar with who came from two successful sitcoms that showed us Black folks in a positive light: Tracee Ellis Ross as Joan Clayton, the lawyer with the sexiest wardrobe, sickest body (that ASS), amazing cheekbones, and bountiful natural curls that had problems in the dating world but had three best girlfriends to share the mishap with. And Malcolm Jamal Warner who played the cool, swaggerific Theo Huxtable in the TV sitcom that paved the way for Black "Family" Entertainment, "The Cosby Show." It also has no type of coonery or ghetto messiness affiliated with it, PERIOD... And it's family oriented. Shows a husband and wife, both with respectable jobs, managing three kids who aren't trouble makers.

And honestly? It was refreshing to watch.

Though the show needs a bit of help with the writing and the smoothness of the direction, like the comedy timing with the teenagers (I think they try a bit hard, but this is only the first and second episode. Giving them the benefit of a doubt) and the storylines, it's not bad. It has potential and THEN some. Tracee is flawless, of course. Can she do wrong? She still managed to keep Joan's kick-ass wardrobe. I was feeling EVERYTHING she wore, from her work clothes to her lingerie... Flawless, Trace. And Malcolm . . . (fans myself) Lemme just explain something to you about Malcolm that makes me happy. Every time his character pops up or says something, I swoon so quickly, and for 3 main reasons:

He got so buff. Seriously, I think the wardrobe stylist purposely made him wear tight sweaters, because the guns on this dude were so BEAUTIFUL. They weren't exaggerated guns, like muscle upon muscle. Nothing like that. They were just so . . . UGH! His physique made me wonder what it's like to have him hold you in a tight embrace... You'd feel so secure. So safe. So . . . lemme stop.
His voice is so deep and manly. Comparing him way back in the Cosby Show days as squealy little lame ass Theo?... That voice he has now is so seductive and powerful and DEEP. You pay attention. Serious. He speaks softy but with some thunder to back it up. MMM!
He looks like such a well rounded family man. Like he will go above and beyond to provide and protect. Reassures his wife there's no one he loves or wants more, so she doesn't have to dress extra sexy to try and keep him. Spoils his youngest daughter, calling her "Baby girl..." Being able to have conversations with his teenage kids... Keeping his cool and being patient with his family... Just resembles a man us women all want. Someone we can trust that won't f*ck up and who will do his best, HIS VERY BEST, to do right.

I'm gonna be tuning in every Tuesday to watch, because I have faith. Hopefully the response from last night's premiere has people asking for more TV shows like this and less of "House of Payne," (which I think is a joke) so that TV networks will listen and create more black family sitcoms like this.

I honestly think this is a start. We lost our touch with respect out there. We began to fall into the status quo's and the masses... Let's pave our way again. By doing things like this, bringing in healthy black families onto the TV screens.

OVERALL GRADE: B+

Catch "Reed Between the Lines," on Tuesdays at 10pm on BET.

Donald Glover Speaks With GQ Mag

2011-10-11T11:03:00.000-07:00

The amazing Donglover, who is featured in the GQ September 2011 issue ("Bad Guy on Campus") visited the headquarters to have a nice chit chat with them. IN THIS VIDEO, YOU WILL FIND:

Donald singing whilst whooing you in your seat... I know. I am living proof.
Speaking about his start in the rap game.
"The thing about music is people will forget you in a month."
Talking on being the ventriloquist of his Twitter, and going through the puberty of it
Looking himself up, of course...
etc.

If I tell you everything, you just might not watch the video.

Click here to check out the nerd boy photoshoot he did with them as well.

Mmm. Look at them suspenders. Haven't looked that good on a dude since Steve Urkel

NEW MUSIC: Pac Div's "The Greatness"

2011-10-10T11:48:00.000-07:00

I need to check myself a few times, because for every artist or project that I hear of that are underground and trying to be on that come up grind, I pay a tiny bit attention to them, and then shun them, only to find out a few months later, they end up ON that come-up, with everyone on their jock, respectively.

PAC DIV is one of them. Heard of them for over a year, and only paid very little attention to them. One of their mixtapes kept being slapped onto my eyelids to take heed for greatness and to take a listen but I didn't.

So here they come with a new song from their latest project "The DiV," which drops this November, and I'm feeling it. For reals. For reals, for reals.

The song is called "The Greatness," produced by No I.D., who's worked with some of the greats (helped put Kanye on the map and worked behind both "808 & Heartbreaks," and "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy"), was President of GOOD Music, and is now Executive VP of Def Jam Records.

This is a cool ass track.

-sighs aloud, slides hand down face-

ALRIGHT, Pac Div.

I SEE YOU.

Source: Pigeons & Planes

NEW MUSIC (VIDEO): Beyonce's "Countdown"

2011-10-06T18:00:00.000-07:00

Ever since that baby bump, I've been on the prowl. So sad, right? But, I won't apologize. The future mother in me went awwww and fanned at my tear filled eyes when she rubbed her belly onstage at the VMA awards in August during her performance. That was beautiful. Seriously.

Get More: Beyoncé, Music, More Music Videos

And in this video for her latest single "Countdown," she just delivers that boo in the belly. And this video is just cute, and i wasn't expecting to love it so much and . . . man. I'm gonna watch it one more time, just for good measure.

Also, I see she made a cute little ode to Audrey Hepburn and even Martha Graham? No? Is it just me? Oh, cool beans.

R.I.P. Sir Steve!

2011-10-06T09:09:00.000-07:00

I didn't know who he was until recently because unlike most innovators toward technology like Mark Zuckerberg and Bill Gates, Steve was never put OUT THERE, per say. And until this summer, I only owned an iPod shuffle (the first generation) and was too young to care who the person behind it was.

But that is beside the point, when I found out who he was or not. The point is, what he has done for the world by co-creating one of technology's biggest movements is universal. Literally. A lot of things would not be, projects unmade, creativities locked... Apple is a huge deal. We can try NOT to admit it, but it's true. It brought competition which brought other devices to people's likings, it brought media editing to an all time high . . .

Apple is universal.

So thank you, Steve Jobs. For my iPod shuffle that I got when I was younger. To the iPod Nano that I received a few years later. To the iphone I'm holding in my hands now and in which I can't let go. yes, an addiction to your products is not healthy, but it's an addiction that's benefited many and myself in many ways.

Rest peacefully, Sir Jobs. You done good.

SHORT FILM / MUSIC (VIDEO): Best Coast's "Our Deal," directed by Drew Barrymore

2011-09-16T14:39:00.000-07:00

There's one of many reasons as to why I'm posting this video up. One of them being the admiration I have for Drew Barrymore, who has suffered as the child star gone bad, out of control, and healed through the cameras of the media, and who has lived to tell the tale while increasing her resume, her talents, and surely, her creativity through the very lens that captured her years ago.

And not to mention, when I saw her directorial debut film "Whip It!" I was proud FOR her, because it's one of my favorite movies. She's chill and it shows through whatever she makes that it's OK to be chill as well, in this industry that's filled with lights, camera and TONS of action.

So, of course, after directing a film, it has to be cool to direct a music video as well. And she has! For the first time, Drew stepped into the Music Video Director seat and has created this great short film/music video for the indie band Best Coast's single "Our Deal." And she's brought to life some of young Hollywood's coolest crowd.

The short film is about two gangs where one of their members happen to fall in love, all while another one of their members gets jumped BY the other gang, causing a war. Featuring Chloe Moretz (Hit Girl in "Kick-Ass") and Tyler Posey (Scott in MTV's "Teen Wolf") as the love struck gangsters, Miranda Cosgrove (Carly in Nickelodeon's "iCarly") as the victim, and featuring the gang members from both sides you have Donald Glover (Troy in "Community"/rapper Childish Gambino), Shailene Woodley (Amy in ABC Family's "Secret Life"), and Alia Shawkat (Maeby in "Arrested Development"), this short film is boss.

Take a look for yourself.

And when you're done, check out the interview Pitchfork Media did with Drew Barrymore about being Behind the Scenes by clicking here.

NEW MUSIC (VIDEO): Frank Ocean's "Thinking About You"

2011-09-15T19:00:00.000-07:00

Check the latest video from the growing household name Frank Ocean for his track, "Thinking About You."

I enjoy this song... Had no choice. My sister played it constantly on blast where I couldn't get away from the sounds TILL I liked it...

I got sucker punched :(

Latest Muppets Movie Trailer!

2011-09-15T18:42:00.000-07:00

The Muppets mock "Girl With A Dragon Tattoo," in their latest trailer.

In case you were wondering...

And if you weren't... You're welcome :)

Jesus why is this trailer so awesome? The propaganda... Lawdamercy.

NEW MUSIC / ALBUM ALERT: Childish Gambino, "Bonfire"

2011-09-15T17:47:00.000-07:00

Donald Glover -ahem, excuse my pardon- Childish Gambino, is coming out with a new album.

Called "Camp."

No more EP's. At least for now.

Finally, an LP. But this time, behind a record label.

Sir Gambino, who has been signed to Glassnote Records (the indie record label behind Mumford & Sons), will be releasing Camp sometime in November. Would have been earlier had he not been snatched up and officially introduced into the music world by being signed. HI-OH.

Aside from me being proud of his new home, I am also PSYCHED. To hear this album. Oh gosh... So, I totally sweated bullets of anticipation when a snippet of a track off Camp graced the interwebs, called "Bonfire."

Take a listen. Crawl into a rock. And come out when Camp releases. No need to worry about the world. JUST this fine piece of work.

Yes.

BTW... Dude seriously loves white and asian girls, doesn't he? :'(

ANOTHER BTW... He's having a tour. PURCHASE TICKETS HERE. They officially go on sale tomorrow at 12 noon (10AM for West Coasters). For American Express card users, went on sale yesterday. So be quick as hell. NYC tickets to his last show sold out in three hours. Vultures...

LAST BTW, PROMISE... Season 3 of Community, next Thursday. Hype!

Idris Elba's Music Vid... Oh lawd... HAPPY FACE!

2011-09-14T21:00:00.000-07:00

Idris Elba sings.

Well if you don't know, now you know. And when this beautiful chocolate man sings, you melt. And when you get to hear him sing WHILE watching him sing? You disintegrate. Because... It's Idris Elba.

Or... As for his alias--Driis.

Check out the video.

The "Other" Olsen Is An Up & Comer!

2011-09-14T20:50:00.000-07:00

You guys know that there is more to the Olsens than just Mary-Kate and Ashley, right? Good... I just hope you're fully aware. And if you're not, introducing to you iiiiiiiis...

ELIZABETH OLSEN! Who is said to become indie film's newest star.

She's really pretty.

No, seriously. She's REALLY pretty.

Idk how great her acting chops are but apparently, if you're automatically getting a GQ interview, taking away from you being the youngest sibling of the richest siblings under 30 with their own franchise, then your chops must go ham...

The 22 year old stars in the indie thriller, Martha Marcy May Marlene. In which she goes nude, during a sacrificing scene. (O_O)

You've got the part.

NEW ALBUM ALERT: Florence + The Machine!

2011-09-14T19:23:00.001-07:00

Florence and the Machine.

Always heard this group through the grapevine and came across their sounds while watching a TV commercial or while it played in the backdrop of a television show but I neevr truly paid attention till a while ago, when a contestant on "The Voice," sung their jam, "Dog Days Are Over." Certified Jam that I jam to till this day.

From there I researched more tunes and fell deeper and deeper into their music till I was literally FALLING into it. It's so intoxicating, and also right up my ally.

Well, for you already made fans who are judging me for being so late on their coolness... F&TM are coming out with a new LP, dropping on Halloween in the UK and hopefully soon after in the US, called "Ceremonials." And if you haven't checked out the first preview for said album here, then do so.

AND after that, check out another preview track from their new album above called Shake It Out. I NEED A DOWNLOAD LINK ASAP. I love it... I love them... Fangirl moment.

And below is the album cover and tracklist for "Ceremonials." GOSH... The beauty before my eyes.

TRACKLIST:

01. Only If for Night

02. Shake It Out

03. What The Water Gave Me

04. Never Let Me Go

05. Breaking Down

06. Lover to Lover

07. No Light No Light

08. Seven Devils

09. Heartline

10. Spectrum

11. All This and Heaven Too

12. Leave My Body

Source: Consequence of Sound

Drake's Deception Hits TV!

2011-09-09T07:44:00.000-07:00

While I was at Fashion Night Out last night (it WAS amazing!), many folks sat their tushes down and enjoyed the NFL Kick-off, which was ever so kind as to also kick off the first Uncharted 3 TV spot!

For any fan who didn't keep up with the news for the game from E3, the Uncharted 3 BETA and the trailers they've released, they probably got a major kick out of it. Psh, I got a kick out of it just because!

The Perfect Twitpic

2011-08-30T11:19:00.001-07:00

Mindy Kaling aka Kelly 'The Corporate Bitch' Kapoor of "The Office," and funny woman, twitpiced a whole bunch of Andy Bernard ties.

Look at that massload.

Her comment?: "Andy Bernard's ties. I don't know, it made me laugh."

Promo Pics for Season 3 "Community"!

2011-08-30T10:46:00.000-07:00

I have not told you guys yet how much I love love love NBC's "Community." Why haven't I told you? Maybe I was waiting for an epic post to include them in, like maybe a "Basic Cable's Best TV Commodities" post? (-nods head- YEP! that's coming around pretty soon, especially since Fall TV is back) But I shouldn't have waited that long. "Community," surely deserved it's own post. Decades ago.

But, after forgiving myself, I just had to post some promo pics for Season 3!

Hmm... Can Annie get a little more ballsy this season? She's deemed worthy after the Paintball Mission circa Season 2.

Also, is it just me or do you guys also prefer Chang when he was just a jackass but hilarious harsh Spanish teacher, instead of him trying oh so hard to be in the group? Me don't like desperate Chang. Me like douchebag Chang.

COME OOOON, DAN HARMON!

TIDBIT: Because you guys are good little readers, here's a "Best of Troy," video. Keep all liquids away from your mouth and all foods from your throat. 'Cause if you choke of laughter...

NEW MUSIC (VIDEO): Jill Scott's "Hear My Call"

2011-08-25T10:48:00.000-07:00

The official video for the latest single off Jill Scott's latest album, "Hear My Call," is out. And I have to say, it's beautiful in a simple way. Which was exactly what I was expecting.

Being that this is one of my favorite songs off the album, I was happy to see that it's her new single and that the video isn't over done, because it's a song about her talking to God, to help her. Guide her in the right direction. And if you remember Janelle Monae's "Cold War," video, where it was simply her breaking down in front of a camera with a black backdrop behind her, this video comes close to it. It's beautiful. Vulnerability at it's best. You go, Jill.

Dave Franco F#$%'s Himself.

2011-08-25T10:07:00.000-07:00

Go F*ck Yourself with Dave Franco from Dave Franco

The cute and hilarious younger brother to the sexy and also hilarious actor James Franco has teamed up with Funny or Die to give us this hilarious video of Dave actually . . . f#$%ing himself, after getting into a heated argument with his girlfriend and her instructing him to do so. Not intentionally, but it seems he took it that way...

It is so weird how him and his brother look alike . . . and those facial expressions. LORD.

Matt and Kim x Soulja Boy x Andrew WK = ????

2011-08-25T08:19:00.000-07:00

I've grew such a fondness to the indie pop/dance band, Matt and Kim. I have both of their albums promptly sorted in my iTunes niche and I hope to keep filling said niche with more of their music, if they make anymore, that is. Which I have no problem hoping for because they've already begun their deliverance!

As part of a "Three Artists, One Song," series sponsored and created by CONVERSE, Matt & Kim teamed up with rapper Soulja Boy and all around entertainer Andrew WK to create the song, "I'm A Goner." Not to mention the video, which Converse easily describes as, "Soulja Boy, Andrew WK and Matt and Kim have risen from the dead to throw a raging dance party in a morgue. The mortician has left for the night, the limbs are fresh and there’s formaldehyde on ice."

They kid you not. Check it out!

How To: Kirsten Stewart's W Magazine Cover Look

2011-08-24T17:53:00.000-07:00

Going on a promoting spree for the latest Twilight movie, "Twilight: Breaking Dawn Pt. 1" premiering November 18th, the front woman Kristen Stewart appeared on the cover of W Magazine. And my oh my did they glam the Plain Jane up so properly, it was astounding. Looking at these photos, I was blown away at how the make-up enhances her beauty so well!

Click to view larger

Well, thankfully, in case I was interested in adapting this look on my face (in which I am), one of the ladies at the Pixiwoo YouTube Channel made a make-up tutorial for the look. And their spin on it looks just as amazing, if not more, than the original. Low and behold, ladies.

Bask in that ambiance!

And to check out the interview that came along with the photoshoot for W Magazine with Kristen Stewart, click here!

Source: Celebrity Gossip

Is MTV Back On Top, Minus The Music?

2011-08-23T20:36:00.002-07:00

MTV, which used to be the go-to channel for anything music, rebellion and approval to be yourself through your tunes, has drastically lost that respect. This is obvious. Once they stripped the channel of it's main focus and has conformed to the masses by plopping reality show after reality show that display degrading teens and "adults" to the viewers at home who know no better, MTV has been shunned, to say the least, to those that DO know better. MTV is no longer MTV, for where is the music?

BUT . . . has it, in a way, redeemed itself with it's latest television line-up?

Let's be frank. MTV has a long way to go to being back on top.

The 'No Music' factor is STILL a buzzkill. Bring back the tunies! At least an hour or two of new music videos, old music videos, videos that rock, videos that go down in history . . . something. Just give us some music!
The reality show intake is preposterous. Stop hiring junkie TV feens to be on Real World and bring back the real people. Because the Real World circa '93 and the Real World circa now is a drastic change. A
nd not the incline kind.
Teen Mom? Really? Just, cut that off.
New episodes of True Life, please? That show's pretty interesting and not so damag
ing to the brain. Kinda like a savior show to teens with issues they had no idea other people had. It's a bit refreshing.
Keep giving us good shows like you've been doing lately! Seriously, this is what the post is about. NOW...

A part of me feels a bit more drawn to MTV for their television shows have peaked my interest, and the interests of many!

1. The Hard Times of RJ Berger: Nerd is a nerd. Normal nerd in High School. One friend, vies for the attention of the popular girl in school, who's dating the popular boy in school. Has one girl who wants him, but in which he does NOT return the feeling. Normal kooky parents that don't pay too much attention to his anti-socialness... Basic plot right? Yes. totally. BUT, did I forget to mention said nerd has the penis size of a Sparta? Ch'yeah, dude is PACKING. And when the whole school finds out, HI-OH! Rejoice and be glad. The show has dry humor and has a tendency to move a bit slow, but aside from that, I do find myself watching and liking it. It's hard NOT to like. The show's hero, RJ (played by Paul Iacono) is a doll and too cute for words, and his best friend Miles (played by Jareb Dauplaise) is a hoot. Unfortunately after two seasons it has JUST been cancelled, but MTV... You had a good thing going.

2. Skins (US Version): You're normal average show about privileged teens that go apeshit with rebellion because life is just not interesting enough. An adapted and less raunchy and livid version of the UK Skins, the US Skins is . . . dry. Not my cup of tea, due to the fact that I don't like this type of show, where there is turmoil everywhere they turn, especially when these teens are at such a young age. I mean, hell. I don't even watch "Degrassi," anymore, never mind that it's become lame in itself. But a lot of folks happened to like this version of Skins. Am I surprised? Eh, not really. (Un)fortunately, it has been cancelled, too. But fear not. If you have Netflix, give it a few months and you should be right at home.

3. Teen Wolf: Okay, okay, okay! Now before you start throwing knives at me, hear me out! Yes, I know! You Twi-hards are against this show because it seems to be biting (or ra

ther, chomping) from the whole wolf craze that has developed due to that stupid Twilight franchise! I get it! BUT . . . have you seen the show yet? . . . NO? Well, can you do me a favor before you crucify me and just watch an episode or two? Because I thought the same thing when I saw the TV spots! A teen who gets bitten by a wolf and soon turns into one and has to deal with being a teen and being a wolf? Hello. Lame, generic, and predictable. But . . . I watched the first episode and found myself wanting to watch the second . . . Then the third, and surely after, the fourth . . . till I found myself anticipating for the season finale. And I'm telling you, as cliche as this show is, it's sort of . . . not. It has funny moments, like the friendship between it's main characters Scott (the wolf, played by the hot Tyler Posey) and Stiles (played by the charming Dylan O'Brien) is so funny to see, because their sync is fantastic and the quips are genius. The romance between Scott and the new girl (who comes from a family of wolf hunters... Cliche, I knoooow!) Allison (played by newcomer and adorable Crystal Reed) is annoying but cute where you just HAVE to go "Awwww!" And the wolf who aids him throughout the show, Derek (played by hot and pale Tyler Hoechlin) is a bit intimidating, which is the point. The graphics need major work. MAJOR. But aside from that, this show is a keeper. Can't wait for next season!

4. Awkward.: All nerds and socially inept and hipster lames rejoice, for this is the show that people have been waiting for. And even if you are none of the above, this show is still good to watch. Simply about a girl who has two friends (one of which who wishes to climb the social ladder of high school successfully) and no life in high school who's (secretly) dating the school's hot factor, who's hated by the popular girl in school (who's a thickie. I'm rejoicing because she's HBIC and not blonde and skinny. Change? I think soooo...) and who writes about all of these (mis)adventures of her life in her online blog, which I wonder is real, because I'd read it. Basic plot, but honestly? It's one of my favorite shows on TV right now. It has a basic plot but it manages to be different, which is such a great thing. The heroine of the show, Jenna (played by the brilliant Ashley Hamilton) is a livelier but a bit more naive version of Daria that it's too good to give up. Though her friends are annoying and I want to punch the popular girl in the face, which is probably the point they were going for . . . I gotta give it up for this genius show. Thank God it's renewed.

5. Death Valley: OK, so remember when I was talking about the fads of "Teen Wolf," because it fed into the whole wolf thing? Well, this show just gives

you alla dat. The Vampires, the Wolves, the Zombies... all the good stuff that makes you piss your pants with fear or cross your legs with pleasure is in this show, about cops who keep our world safe from those daggering demons of the world. The twist? Imagine Reno 911 as the cop crew. Yeah. This show is meant to make you holler with laughter, and the trailer does just that. I am so psyched to see this show, which premieres August 29th at 10:30pm, because though it's brought us all the biggest fads of Hollywood this day forward, it looks like it can entertain the crap out of us. And you don't just pass up an opportunity like this when you've got nothing left to lose but a half hour, which you can easily redeem the next week, knowing that you didn't like the show. But this, I have a feeling, will be unlikely.

SO . . . with all this new or deceased television, can MTV get back on top? Will music television be next? Are you praying on it?

SHORT FILM: "Portal: No Escape"

2011-08-23T20:20:00.000-07:00

Directed by Dan Trachtenburg, this feature short film dedicated to the popular video game, Portal, is a MUST SEE. I'm telling you, the play button is totally your friend when it comes to this genius film.

Dan, who is known for directing commercials over the years, made his feature film debut a while ago after directing the short horror film, "More Than You Can Chew," made for Black Box TV. Apparently this short film was top notch, due to it drawing major attention already. And now here he is displaying another genius effort? Man... In this rate, he may well be on his way to bigger and better things.

Hell, I'd like to see more myself!

Source: Slash Film

OK Go x The Muppets = One Hell of a Theme Song

2011-08-23T12:59:00.001-07:00

The band, OK Go, are ever so kind enough to team up with the legendary Muppets to create their theme song along with a new track to add to OK Go's latest album, "The Green Album," available for purchase on iTunes now! Check it out.

Boy, do I just love this.

In Case You Didn't See / Hear / Know...

2011-08-23T12:10:00.000-07:00

"Earthquakes bring out the worst in some people." -Sgt. Lew Slade

played by George Kennedy (a line from 1974's "Earthquake")

---Around 2pm this afternoon, an earthquake of 5.9 started in Virginia and traveled as far as New York City, Toronto, North Carolina and Ohio... -click here-

---Nick Ashford of 'Ashford and Son', one of Motown's greatest, has passed away at the age of 69. -click here-

---Will and Jada Pinkett Smith, one of Hollywood's power couple for having such a healthy marriage and a well grounded family with outstanding careers, have called it quits after 13 years of marriage. / UPDATE: Trey Smith, Will Smith's son from his previous marriage, goes on twitter to state otherwise. -click here-

---Amy Winehouse's toxicology report, as her family claims, states that she was not enticed with illegal drugs at the time of her death. -click here-

---Check out Jane Lynch's trailer for her memoir, "Happy Accidents!"

NEW MUSIC (VIDEO): Yeezy & Hov's "Otis."

2011-08-11T18:42:00.000-07:00

Low and behold, the official video for "Otis," the latest track off of Jay-Z and Kanye West's collaborative album, "Watch the Throne." Directed by Spike Jonze, the video debuted on MTV just earlier today! And with the quickness of technology, it's now here for our viewing pleasure.

So knock your socks off!

Pilot for "Black Dynamite," Animated Series!

2011-08-08T17:18:00.000-07:00

OOOOOOOOOOOOOH, BOY! I have waited for a long time for this, and now that it's here... I just...

Don't look at me, just click play and watch!

Five Easy Ways to Show You Don't Give a F*ck

2011-08-08T10:07:00.000-07:00

Brought to you by College Humor. Ah, so legit.

Click here for more tips on ways to show you don't give a f*ck.

Viral Video Alert: "Black & Jewish," by Kat Graham & Kali Hawk

2011-08-08T09:02:00.000-07:00

Viral videos never fail to tickle your phone bone. And if they do, it's banishment from the interweb! But let's think positive and laugh hard for this "Black and Yellow," parody by Kat Graham of "Vampire Diaries," and Kali Hawk of "Bridesmaids," who brought us "Black and Jewish," a song calling out the famous celebs we look up to, such as Drake, Rashida Jones, Lauren London, Lenny Kravitz, and much more for having Jewish and Black parents...

Black and Jewish (Black and Yellow Parody) from Kat Graham

Oh, the hilarity. Also, isn't it funny how I prefer bumping this version rather than the actual song? Sorry, Wiz.

NEW MUSIC / (VIDEO): Elle Varner ft. J. Cole & Cee Lo ft. Jaleel White!

2011-08-08T08:09:00.000-07:00

Who is this Elle Varner, you ask? Well, I have no idea, to be quite frank. But after hearing this song she has featuring one of my fave rappers, J. Cole, called "Only Wanna Give It To You," I would love to get to know her, because that voice is gorgeous and that song is fiyah! Take a listen!

And as for Mr. Cee-Lo Green, who never disappoints when it comes to entertaining our fragile minds, has released a new video for his newest single off his latest album called "Cry Baby," and it stars someone I blogged a little while ago about due to his absense, and that person is Jaleel White, aka Mr. Steve Urkel, in the flesh.

I like the video! The look, the dancing and gleeful feel to a song that's meant to make you feel a certain way... Not to mention, the song is very nice, which I'm not surprised about. Because it's Cee-Lo. Jaleel did a great job, no?

In Case You Didn't See / Hear / Know...

2011-08-08T07:07:00.000-07:00

---That's it! The long anticipated duet album between Jay-Z and Kanye West, "Watch The Throne," has dropped on iTunes, and surprisingly was not leaked before it's airdate! Wowza... So far, from the opinions on Twitter coming from the impatient fans, music critics, and haters listening to not be left out...

Hov delivered while Kanye was a bit flat with his lyricism
Too many songs were being thrown into the convo as a favorite, which means this album is doing wonders
Production was a 50/50 for many
Beyonce on that one track killed it... In a bad way.

But, you be the verdict! Download via iTunes today! -click here-

---Big Boi of the popular hip-hop group, Outkast, was arrested on Sunday for drug possession, namely ecstasy (pill and powder) and Viagra, as he was leaving a cruise ship with friends. -click here-

---The week-end box office winner and loser goes to "Rise of the Planet of the Apes," starring James Franco and Freida Pinto respectively, opening at #1 with $54 million, surpassing the predicted amount by $20 million, while "The Change-Up," starring Jason Bateman and Ryan Reynolds, opened in at #4 with a disappointing $13.5 million... Did you see either or? -click here-

---While filming a questions and answers quip in L.A. the other night, a random fan asked stand-up comedian, Aziz Ansari, “Why don’t you have a red dot on your forehead?" poking fun at his Indian culture, prompting him to fire back at her with a rather hilarious response... -click here-

---The redband trailer for Jonah Hill's newest comedy, "The Sitter," has debuted, making it ten times more funnier than the restricted trailer. Centering around Jonah's character who finds a job being a baby sitter, but doing a really bad job at it, this film looks like it's gold.

A Letter To Amy Winehouse

2011-07-23T14:47:00.000-07:00

I believe it was last year that VH1 was showing this special called “The 27s: The Greatest Myths of Rock & Roll.” It came on after “The Soup,” on E! and I was feeling incredibly lazy, so I decided to watch it. Luckily I did, because the incite I got was ridiculous…

The 27 Club aka Forever 27 aka Club 27, is a group of 34 Rock & Rollers at their peak who all died at the young age of 27 years old. And in this club, you have the greats that some, most, or a small amount of us grew up listening to: Jimi Hendrix, Kurt Cobain, Janis Joplin…

The special, to say the least, creeped me out just a little bit. Not too much, but to the point where I was spooked and intrigued to find out more about the “club.” They went into deep analysis, from dates to color palettes to social behaviors and mental backgrounds… Of course, many of these artists had involvements in drugs and alcohol, but most, if not all, had issues.

Serious serious issues. Issues that should have been dealt with but that couldn’t be, and issues that they used as their art. As either a plea for help, or their way of saying, “This will be all that’s left of me. This is all I need to get across. After this… I think I’m done.”

Matter of fact, it was Neil Young that said: “It’s better to burn out than to fade away.”

At the end of the special, they spoke about those who they felt would be well on their way to this club, due to the rate in which they were going. You, Amy Winehouse, were the first on their list. Sure, it all added up, but in the same year, many sources said you were getting better. That you were doing pretty good, laying low, keeping your life out of the newspapers. Slowly but surely, you would get back on track, if you were on track to begin with…

Well, Amy…

I checked the 27 Club Wiki page. Guess what? You’ve already been added to the list. Hook, line and sinker…

Dammit, all of the cues were in your lyrics. All of it. The tone of your voice, the messages of your songs, the names of your albums… But, regardless. Help was never on the way, was it? You were spiraling way too deep into the depths of your mind that to be pulled out of that chaos would be an act of death. Could that have been the reason?

After you checked out of rehab just as quick as you had checked IN, you went on tour in Europe, and got severely booed off stage, due to forgetting your lyrics as you performed your most famous songs, and for coming on stage intoxicated and completely disheveled. The tour was cancelled due to the incident, and everyone felt it can come back on once you got some more help, which you didn’t get. Could this have been the reason?

What was it? Was it because your life was spiraling out of your control COMPLETELY, or was it because you were finally fading out because of your life, and out of fear that you would be forgotten instead of remembered, that you would rather have burned?

It’s all over now, Amy. Sleep well. I hope you finally find that peace you were looking for that you couldn’t find here.

NEW MUSIC / (VIDEO): Kanye, Jay-Z and the Beastie Boys!

2011-07-20T17:40:00.000-07:00

Calm down, you guys, not all of them together on a track... But all of them together in this post? Hell yes.

Kanye & Jay-Z have another track to display to the universe from their debuting collaborative album, "Watch The Throne." And after the very head-tilting track "H.A.M.," I can understand if you're a bit reluctant...

But take a listen, because the track is niiiiice. "Otis," has a sampled beat (produced by Kanye, who has proven to be a gifted artist in all aspects of his music, including the beats) that's soulful as all hell, and the verses 'Ye and Kay put down are casual yet delightful. So I'm good with this track. If I can just steal the instrumental, I'd be A-OK.

-------------------------------------------------

On to the video! A long while back I posted the Beastie Boys x Santigold track, "Hot Sauce Committee Part II," off their latest album, and i raved about how great it was. RIGHT? Remember?! Good, cuz here is it's official video.

It's an 11-minute full length video, but if you would like to watch a shorter and much more -get-to-the-point music video, click here.

BTW? I effin' LOVE this video. Said and done. I could say more, but I'm about to watch it again. So just go on without me and see it for yourselves... Go on, now. Go enjoy...

How To: Harry Potter's "Butterbeer"

2011-07-16T07:33:00.000-07:00

The Harry Potter craze is REAL, guys. Never in my life have I heard a franchise cause such an uproar of delight from ages ranging from a wee little tyke to a grown elderly adult. Raking in $43.5 million before it's midnight premiere and breaking the midnight box office record while doing so, damaging Twilight $30 million lead, "Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows: Part 2," opened with a BANG. Twitter dashboards were raving, Facebook statuses were coming up like crazy, and Tumblr HP spam was off the chain.

THE CRAZE IS REAL.

So to celebrate this amazing phenomena that has come to a close (holds back tears, claims there's a twig in my eye), I have to give you guys something to keep with you. And if you haven't seen the movie, you can make this and bring it along with you. As if you're at the Three Broomsticks.

Butterbeer, my friends. Below is the recipe, and below is a drink you must try and pass down to your kids and their kids and so on, so forth, along with the books, the games, the merchandise and the movies that are Harry Potter. Many have tried this recipe and many have rejoiced over its absolute deliciousness. And it would only be right for true Harry Potter fans, newbies or the all timers, to let your taste-buds go bonkers. I mean . . . Guys. IT'S BUTTERBEER.

Anyway, enjoy! And if you happen to do it, let me know how it tastes in the comments below. I'm buying the ingredients tonight!

Ingredients:
1 cup (8 oz) club soda or cream soda
½ cup (4 oz) butterscotch syrup (ice cream topping)
½ tablespoon butter

Directions:

Step 1: Measure butterscotch and butter into a 2 cup (16 oz) glass. Microwave on high for 1 to 1½ minutes, or until syrup is bubbly and butter is completely incorporated.

Step 2: Stir and cool for 30 seconds, then slowly mix in club soda. Mixture will fizz quite a bit.

Step 3: Serve in two coffee mugs or small glasses; a perfectly warm Hogwarts treat for two!

Source: MuggleNet

NEW MUSIC (VIDEO): "Novacane," by Frank Ocean

2011-06-25T06:18:00.000-07:00

Frank Ocean, who I have a great feeling everyone knows due to his R&B yet futuristic beats and rhythmic vibe, has the video for the single off his mixtape, "Nostalgia/Ultra," called "Novacane." Check it out!

NEW MUSIC: "Schoolin' Life," by Beyonce

2011-06-22T16:00:00.000-07:00

I don't think I've gotten to tell you guys that I am over hating on Beyonce. No more, folks. That ship has gladly sailed away and for many reasons. Reasons I will tell you guys another time, because I'm here to debut a new joint on Beyonce's "4," album.

I like it! It sounds like a Whitney beat circa '89 with a smidge of Bee in . . . well, 2011 lol. Duh. It's really catchy, and I'm not surprised, since it's The-Dream produced.

This song will be in the deluxe edition of the album, which comes out next Tuesday! I'm pretty excited. I already heard a few tracks, and so far, Bee hasn't disappointed me. It doesn't seem too try-hard as compared to "I Am...Sasha Fierce." It sounds mellow but kinda top notch. I couldn't deal with Sasha at all... That was so wrong.

Source: Rap-Up

Emoticons To Express These Trying Times...

2011-06-22T15:29:00.000-07:00

With so much going on today, I seriously think emoticon game faces need to be stepped up. There should now be one for EVERYTHING. I kid you not... Check these out for size.

I know . . . I vote for these to be brought to every communicating device EVERYWHERE. They owe us this much . . .

Source: The Hairpin

Wanna Know 10 Things That Irritate Elijah Wood?

2011-06-22T14:36:00.000-07:00

Usually, a celebrity is asked some reassuring questions, such as where they see their career going, what's next for them, how lucky do they feel dating the most eligible bachelor/bachelorette in Hollywood . . . you know. Things that dazzle us.

Elijah Wood, on the other hand, who is part of Hollywood's Elite, was asked about what pisses him off. What grinds his gears. WHAT IRRITATES HIM. Thanks to Black Book Magazine, they got the "Lords of the Rings," to share with us such vital information.

10 Things That Irritate Elijah Wood

1. Remakes and reboots. Have we not the balls to support original material? Why must the vast majority of our unique pieces be relegated to minuscule budgets and poor exposure, while hundreds of millions of dollars are put toward rehashing used ideas? How about we even out the budgeting a bit. Remember when we chose a little-known Polish director to helm a film about the devil impregnating Mia Farrow?

2. Doing the bare minimum of one’s job description. I once had a heavy crate delivered. The delivery man set it on the sidewalk in front of my house. It being far too heavy for one person to move on his own, I asked if he would help move it to my driveway. He replied by saying that he’d done his job, then begrudgingly helped move it as if he were doing me a favor. Nope, not extra. Still your job.

3. Anti-smoking laws that now extend to outdoor spaces. Can we not let the use of free air be determined by the people using it? Should someone have a problem with roving smoke, they could simply ask the offending smoker if he or she would kindly refrain. Most spaces are smoke-free, and I accept that—particularly inside restaurants—but can smokers not have patios and general outdoor areas?

4. Truncated texting. Most of us have full keyboards on our magical mobile devices—use them. It was understandable on numbered keypads and even forgivable with the aid of T9. But now? C u l8r? No, you won’t.

5. Orcs. Ugly fuckers.

6. (Most) clubs. Crowds of people dressed in their finery, standing outside, lining up around the block yearning for acceptance—only to enter a loud space with predominantly awful music, bottle service, and neither the room to move nor the ability to utter words that can be heard without shouting. I’ve often wondered why hordes flock to these overstyled douche cantinas.

7. When people aren’t held accountable for their actions. If you fuck up, deal with it—it’s your responsibility. Somehow we’ve created a world where a person spills coffee on himself, sues the coffee company, and wins.

8. Relationship statuses on Facebook. Breaking up with someone in the real world is hard enough. There’s no need to do it digitally. That there’s some weight attached to changing your status from “in a relationship” to “single” is ridiculous.

9. My printer. It refuses to wirelessly speak to my computer. I’ve tried at various times to get the two to chat and take on basic tasks together, such as printing a document or scanning a photo. It even insists on stubbornly refusing my attempts to start a healthy USB-free dialogue between the two. Bastard.

10. Clutter. Why do you accumulate? I have utter disdain for you, yet I am to blame for your existence. A conundrum. (Oh, and: Complaining. Just shut up and deal with it. No one wants to hear it.)

Maaaan . . . so much truth within these irritations, Elijah. Though the problem with your printer seems like a real personal problem that you might wanna . . . y'know . . . y'know?

SHORT FILM: "Successful Alcoholics," starring Lizzy Caplan & TJ Miller

2011-06-22T13:09:00.000-07:00

Wasn't it just a few posts ago I was rah rahing about the wonderful Lizzy Caplan? How fabulous is it that just moments later I come across the short film she starred in alongside actor TJ Miller called "Successful Alcoholics," about a couple that are boozeheads but still happen to keep very well paying jobs. In this modern day America? It's astonishing . . .

Played at the Sundance Film Festival, SXSW and many other festival platforms you can think of, it's a great watch. It's funny and it's different. 25 minutes you will not waste here, folks.

Everybody Loves Vashtie Kola...

2011-06-21T08:47:00.000-07:00

Wow, please remind me to add her to my (Wo)man Candy list, because Vashtie is a must. This ultra-talented beauty of a woman not only has my respect, but also the respect of many across the world, and just for being her and having a keen eye for everything that is dope. True story.

Refinery 29, one of the most popular and coolest fashion blogs out there, decided to interview her when it comes to her style and her influences while giving her a photo shoot in her own home! Cool, right?

Click HERE to flip through the slideshow and read up on this gahgeous specimen.

NEW MUSIC (VIDEOS): The Ladies of Floetry

2011-06-18T11:42:00.000-07:00

Both Marsha Ambrosius and natalie "The Floacist" Stewart, the women that made up the wonderfully sensational R&B/Soul group, Floetry, have released new videos! No, not together, guys. Sorry... But within their own solo efforts!

Marsha's video for "Late Nights and Early Mornings," is simply lovely. The song in itself is sexy. I found myself singing along with grooving in my chair because it was putting me in a good place, lol. Excuse my pardon. Not to mention she's also sending a wonderful message to the sexually active out there, just as she sent a message to the LGBT community with "Far Away."

Do you guys catch the message?

The Floacist, who also took a sensual approach, put a little bit of art into it for her song "Let Me." She's stripped down to her birthday suit with some pasties upon her goodies! And not to mention the Mandingo that frolics across this video. A girl must do her best to contain herself...

The song is seductive, with her not really singing but whispering in a harmony that's enticing. I'm not mad at all here. It's truly sultry and something to give some time to. If you're up for it.

You guys like?

For The Thickies: Bathing Suits for Plus Sized Beauties

2011-06-18T11:40:00.000-07:00

Plus sized clothing (thankfully) is on the come up. Actually, it's already here. It just needs some more attention and some respect and I guarantee you, thick ladies can actually walk around proud in the clothes they wear because they won't resemble a women that has no personality whatsoever. Thank the heavens!

But, if there is one thing I know thick women have been on the look out for and have been praying to have more options in, is bathing suits. Without a doubt, this has to be the most challenging thing to find.

A thick woman shopping for her bathing suit is looking for one that:

brings out their shape
makes them feel sexy
doesn't look like something their grandmother would wear
makes them feel eager to run into the sand and splash in the water, no matter how many stares they get
has them peeking in their closet every nanosecond at every chance they get because it is THAT AMAZING

I mean, this is what I look for in a bathing suit. No hiding under cover ups for the whole trip. No sitting under the shade and not getting into the water. No embarrassment at all. Just confidence, joy and fun. This is a bathing suit us thick women have been searching for.

Well . . . this year, you won't be disappointed. Check out these lovely bathing suits for the thicker-than-your-average!

Forever 21 has brought swimsuits into their collections!

Ever since Forever 21 has catered to plus sized (circa January 2010), they've been on the watch by the thickies for the longest. And just this summer, they've begun showcasing some swimsuits! Check out some more cute ones on their site!

H&M in the UK

Ugh. You gotta have a place in your heart for H&M. Though they go up to just a large, if you look REAL close and have enough patience to search your way through their racks, you can find something that's able to fit your +Large size. It's been done. But did you know that in the UK, they cater to the big girls? If you shop online, click on their BiB category, and behold!

Unfortunately, they only have 3 bathing suits. But that doesn't mean they aren't cute. Check that leopard print one above. GORGEOUS.

Monif C.'s Summer 2011 Swimsuit Collection

Monif C. is POPULAR for having gorgeous gowns for thicker women, and she absolutely KICK ASS when it comes to bathing suits. I mean, do you see how gorgeous they look? You can't go wrong with a Monif C. bathing suit in your summer stash box. Pro? You will look like an amazon queen walking around in one of these. Con? Very pricey. But by the looks of this, it is so worth the moolah.

Gabi of Young Fat & Fabulous sporting a bikini from Fig Leaves

Fig Leaves actually has some pretty cute bathing suits. This site, that has clothes that goes up to sizes 28, is pretty promising. And I like that it doesn't label anything plus size. The same bathing suit you see for a skinny girl, you see is extended for the thick girls, too. SCORE.

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Seeeeee? How awesome is that? Of course there's Torrid, Evans, Ashley Stewart and so on. But out of all of them, these four places happen to have some killer suits. But if you spot out some sexy ones I didn't mention, lemme know in the comments!

Have a great summer, my fellow thickies!

(Wo)man Candy #4: Lizzy Caplan

2011-06-18T10:54:00.000-07:00

Lizzy playing Casey Klein in the short lived TV series "Party Down"

Is there something about a girl who's sarcastic, charming, cute, sexy when she wants to be, talented and sometimes even doe-eyed that is just so addicting? Along with Mila Kunis (who is also going to be on my list), Kat Dennings (who I've blogged a lot about), and a few other ladies who fit the above criteria, Lizzy Caplan has it down pat to a point where I really feel it's a PART of her, and not just in the characters she plays.

Lizzy playing Janice Ian in Mean Girls

You know Lizzy. First introduced to us as the sarcastically maybe-sorta-kinda-til-the-end-of-the-movie lesbian that looked a hot mess but was totally awesome and your best friend, Janm in the ever so popular, "Mean Girls"? Yes, her. The girl who blows up in "Cloverfield"? Yep, that's the girl. The V taking druggie who stole Jason's heart in "True Blood"? YUP! I knew you would get it sooner or later.

Lizzy Caplan is a heart warmer. Someone that intrigues you and would seem like such a down ass chick to hang with that you envy not being in the same limelight as her to be the one she calls up to say, "Wanna go get an In-N-Out burger?" Or some homegirl stuff like that.

She's gorgeous.

She's charming.

She's talented.

And she's entertaining and a joy to see.

Lizzy, my dear. You have earned this position as my (Wo)man Candy. Bask in the ambiance.

NEW MUSIC: Jill Scott's "The Light of the Sun" Album Leak

2011-06-18T09:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, well the title might be a TAD bit misleading. 1. It's not really an album leak per say. More of like a few songs to give you a taste of how much you're going to want to BUY the album. 2. It's not really a LEAK, since she put it up on YouTube herself for the public to hear. Plus, like I said. It's not all the songs. Just some.

Jill's album cover for "The Light of the Sun." STUNNING.

So if you don't know, Jill Scott is one of my favorites. Truly. I've listened, downloaded, and have fallen in love with all her albums, I am a huge fan of her acting roles (Girlfriends, Why Did I Get Married, The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency) and the fact that she's a plumb woman with a gentle and cute face, a sexy and sultry voice, and who rocked thick natural curls, she had me sprung. JILL HAD ME SPRUNG.

So when I got word last year of her new album being like a big ass jam session, I creamed with happiness. Jill just in the studio going IN on tracks? Letting her heart out? Just like that, it being all raw? I needed to hear.

I wasn't pleased with the first single off this jam session of an album," The Light of the Sun." I didn't like it, cuz it didn't really sound like Jill. "Shame," was just mediocre and not my cup of tea. BUT . . . once I listened to the songs she put out, which you guys will get to hear below, I knew this was it. THIS IS IT.

"Le Boom Vent Suite"

This is such a nice jam. Kinda simple but it's got a nice pip in it's bass.

"When I Wake Up"

I'll simply have to listen to this song on a rainy day, while the raindrops hit my windowpane. Surely, this is so smooth...

"Hear My Call"

This song had me clenching at my heart, because she makes something like heartache sound so beautiful and right. Can you imagine?

"So Gone (What My Mind Says)"

Jill brought the sexy in with this jam. She brought it and it's so right! The beat is so hypnotic, my lord...

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To hear the rest of the previews, click here to go to her YouTube. Ugh, guys. I need this album in the palms of my hand. Seriously, this cannot be something I half-ass. I need this in my possession!

Then & Now: Jaleel White

2011-06-17T09:50:00.000-07:00

Come on. If you remember anything from your childhood like the shows you watched and loved, "Family Matters," was one of them. And the character that was just supposed to be recurring but had caught the audiences attention so much that he not only saved the show from cancellation but became a main cast member in the process, was none other than Steve "Did I Do Thaaaat?" Urkel, played by the young Jaleel White.

So after making a huge name for himself, what happened? Where did he go? Did he shed the Urkel Image and continue on with a successful acting career?

Well . . . not really. But you can catch the now 34-year-old in "Judy Moody and the Not Bummer Summer," in theaters now starring Heather Graham.

FUN FACTS!

Can you believe that Jaleel was supposed to be Rudy Huxtable in The Cosby Show? Apparently, the youngest of the bunch was supposed to be a boy, but it was given to Keyshia Knight Pulliam
He graduated from UCLA with a degree in Film & Television
Has voiced Sonic the Hedgehog in a lot of Sonic's animated series produced here in the U.S.
Is the writer and producer of a web series called "Fake It Till You Make It."

First 6 Minutes of "True Blood"

2011-06-06T15:15:00.000-07:00

If you guys haven't lost interest in one of the greatest things to come to your werewolf and vampire obsessions, then please indulge in the first 6 minutes of "True Blood," because surely, you wanna know what you're heading into when the first episode of the 4th season premieres June 26th!

And, oh my word. That's Gary Cole, isn't it? UGH. I luuuuuh me some Gary!

Hype is not the word, guys.

NEW MUSIC (VIDEOS): Robyn, Theophilus & Kid Cudi!

2011-06-02T21:47:00.000-07:00

If you don't love music videos to help spice up any song, then surely . . . this post is not meant for your eyes... Let's start, shall we?

Kid Cudi's "Marijuana"

Where has Kid Cudi been? Chillin' with Kanye? Shaking off haters? Quitting weed cold turkey? Well . . . he's been busy, all right. Doing what? WE DUNNO! But he was nice enough to give us a video to his "Marijuana," track off his last album, "Man on the Moon II: The Legend of Mr. Rager." AND YOU WILL NOT BELIEVE THE DIRECTOR FOR THE JOB.

Go ahead. Guess if you have to . . .

No, you guys are taking too long. SHIA LABEOUF! Now I'm not gonna be biased and say it was great because Shia did it. But, I mean . . . the video is cool beans. It's nothing serious but . . . it's not bad at all. Plus it made me kinda like the song, and I'm not a Cudi stan. At all.

Fun Fact: Shia shot this vid with a Flip Cam. Maaaaan . . .

Theophilus London's, "London Loves Venice"

Theophilus London is probably one of those artists you hear about frequently amongst the hipster crowd or probably because your friend discovered him and put his video up on his tumblr or facebook and that you want to ignore because who the hell is he, but you don't ignore because you wanna know who the hell he is.

The good thing about Theophilus is that with his music, he tells you. His music is music to bring to the beach with some hip hop and maybe some dance in the mix. It's chill music. Very chill. It can do no harm. This song and the video to match is just stellar. I loves it.

Robyn's, "Call Your Girlfriend"

I was introduced to Robyn by my boyfriend lol. Can you believe. He calls me and I hear this song blasting as he attempts to speak to me over the bass, and out of impatience I asked him who is he listening to. He says, "Her name is Robyn!" He tells me to watch the video for "Dancing On My Own," and from there, I started looking at all her older stuff, and I liked it. A lot. She's also adorable in a way I can't explain. Maybe it's that platinum blonde hair, I dunno. But I like her.

And I also like this video. She oozes intrigue, doesn't she? If not, go sulk in a corner!

Liked the videos? Which one's your fave?

Natural Hair Community: Getting Out of Hand?

2011-05-28T14:24:00.000-07:00

I went natural back in my sophomore year of High School, which was 5-6 years ago. When I did it, I wasn’t scared of the ridicule I would get for being the only girl without a perm as I used to be in 7th grade, which led to me getting a perm in the first place. I just wanted that crap of out my system. I felt bored with a perm, seeing as how I couldn’t do as much as I wanted. See, I had no idea what I could achieve with natural hair, but I thought to myself, “It has to be better and more alive than this.”

And it was. I had so much fun with my hair once my mother clipped off the permed ends. The poofs, the fro’s, the accessories, the cornrows and twists . . . I did whatever I felt like, and in doing so, it brought an attitude to me that has shaped me to become the person I am today. Fun, happy, full of excitement with a punch of eccentricity.

Around this time, I never knew there was a natural hair community. I was 15 years old, doing what I felt and loving it. I didn’t know there were blogs that banded together to better educate the hair we grew up with. I didn’t know people were testing pH balances, concocting deep conditioners and listing what oils went well with what. I was completely oblivious. And to this day, a part of me wishes I still was.

Now, don’t get me wrong. The natural hair community has become a community I’m happy to be a part of. I’ve learned quite a lot, met a lot of people, educated a lot of people, and so on. I’ve been able to bring curls to my hair, seen conditioners in a whole new light, and so on. But at the same time . . . I lost myself within the education.

There are blogs after blogs, YouTube gurus after gurus, doctors after doctors telling us one day one item is great, and the next day saying it’ll damage your hair. We’re using things such as henna, tea, and so on to bring shine and body and even growth to our hair. There are so many options that you begin to do SO MUCH with your hair, and where it becomes overwhelming. My mother would notice that the amount of products I bought would increase week after week. I’d be using her household items like Extra Virgin Olive Oil and her honey, and she would watch in dismay as I went ape shit trying to bring my hair to become, what? Healthy? Better than it already was?

My hair was fine before I embarked on this “make my hair that was fine before, HEALTHIER,” journey, which started off cool but has become tragic. I did what blogs advised me to do, but then another blog said different, and I wouldn’t know what to do! One day, I tried a product that I thought was working for me, but that ended up drastically breaking my hair, and ever since then it has been a rollercoaster for me to go back to the hair I once had that brought me happiness. Right now I’m suffering with High Porosity, and I’m weighing the option of cutting all of my hair or just leaving it and treating it.

Natural hair isn’t as difficult as it seems. Our hair needs moisture. Lots of moisture. Don’t use grease that clog the scalp that include petroleum, for it prevents moisture from coming in. Condition after you shampoo to bring back the moisture into your hair that the shampoo strips away . . . every blog/video will tell you the same thing. Yet it seems people keep trying to find something deeper, as if there’s a formula we’re hiding. It’s simple, if you understand it.

Taren916, a YouTube natural hair guru who I subscribe to, posted a question: Are Natural Hair Videos Boring? And to my surprise a lot of people said yes. Folks are complaining that natural hair blogs/videos are becoming lackluster with the same facts, same product reviews, same ways on how to co-wash, shampoo, deep condition, henna and all that jazz . . . people get it. They know what they need to do. Some have given up trying to do exactly what they’re told because they see it doesn’t work for them and see their way is better and more effective. Someone on YouTube said, “Once you know the basics of natural hair care, there's not a whole lot to say.”

I’m not blaming these gurus/bloggers. They simply learn something in which they want to share with anyone who has difficulties with their hair, or anyone who wants to spruce it up. That’s understandable, and we’re grateful that you care enough. But to those who are watching and reading and who are soaking everything in, we have to stop searching for more. People watching videos with gurus that don’t match their hair type and who get mad that their hair doesn’t turn up like theirs, people upset when someone raves about a product but see it does diddly squat for them . . .

It’s all so much. Not to mention there weren’t so many to begin with. There was a good handful that gave you enough info to get by. So now, there are numbers upon NUMBERS with the same details. For those who are new or transitioning, it’s all new to them, this natural hair journey. But once they get into reading numerous blogs and watching countless YouTube videos, will they become overwhelmed as well?

For naturals who have been in the game for years, at the end of the day, keep it simple. Don’t trial and error as much. If there’s a product you trust, trust it. Stick by it. Yes, it’s great to try new things but if your hair knows what it likes, then keep feeding it to your hair. Love it, nurture it. Treat it right. If there is ANYTHING a natural should go to bed knowing that is written in stone, is that MOISTURE IS A MUST. That’s it. Go with that. Create a simple regimen and run with it. For those who are new, learn the basics of how to treat your hair, and that's it. If you go in too deep, you'll go crazy.

As for me? A cut might be a necessity. Right now, I’m keeping my hair moisturized as much as possible. Co-wash every three days, deep condition once a week, whipped shea butter with essential oils so I don’t have to go crazy with which one I didn’t put in my hair, spray bottle filled with water, satin scarf on deck for bed . . . Nothing too drastic, everything simple. And I feel better, less stressed or uncertain. I’m building my accessory and scarf collection for when I get lazy, found a natural hair salon for when I want to trim my ends every 6-8 weeks . . . I’m smooth sailing.

And lemme tell you, it’s a relief.

Jonah Hill's All Cartoony On His New Show!

2011-05-16T15:47:00.000-07:00

Check out the trailer to Fox's newest animated comedy starring thee hilarious Jonah Hill as an extremely smart wise-beyond-his-age kid who has lived life being treated as an adult but now has to attend something so . . . childish: ELEMENTARY SCHOOL! Oh, the horror.

I personally loved Elementary . . . but if at the age of 5 I was raised as a grown up and I skipped my child years, this would definitely be a problem. Which makes sense . . .

This looks like a good watch, and I'm gonna need a new show to invest in on Sundays. The Seth MacFarlene line up is getting old, no?

"Allen Gregory," premieres on Sundays this Fall on Fox!

Childish Gambino and Reggie Watts Freestyle: FANTASTIC!

2011-05-04T12:46:00.000-07:00

Oh, come ooooooon! How fucking sweet is this?! First off, I must say that Childish is a dude you must walk up to when you meet him and either a) shake hands with while bidding him a successful and happy life because he made yours a bit easier, or b) jump up and down as best as you can and go, "BRO! YOU'RE A FUCKING GENIUS MANIAC! Whaaaat the fuck, man?! WHAT IS THIS NONSENSE?! Give me life!"

Either or, you will get an amazing response from him. Because he's that chill! Not to mention, he is a genius who deserves a happy and successful life and also deserves to hear a person make no sense while making sense all by complimenting him. Seriously.

Have you seen this video? Watch it.

Here he freestyles with Reggie Watts, who is an amazing comedian and an even more amazing musician, at L.A.'s The Music Box last week and fucking pwns! Him and Reggie both! A team that needs to come out with a mixtape or something, cuz this was no joke.

Source: Splitsider

MOVIE REVIEW: "Thor," starring Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman and Anthony Hopkins

2011-05-04T11:21:00.000-07:00

"THOR! THOR! THOR! THOR!"

That's the mass exploding sound of the 200+ people packed into the Regal Theater on Union Square last night who were excited beyond belief that "Thor," was finally starting after countless movie trivia questions and annoying people pushing past to get a great seat.

I was fortunate enough to score free passes to the Advanced Screening, and a movie that I was skeptical about that I now can watch to see if it was worth it and NOT have to feel like shit when I walk out the theater because it was bad and I spent my money is a movie I cannot pass up. So I went. With my sister, her friends, and my boyfriend. It was a big group of us who got Balcony Seats. BALCONY SEATS! We were so high up and got an amazing visual of the biggest screen EVER!

But enough about that...

So, FYI? This movie comes in 3-D. And if you haven't already experienced for yourself with other films, it would do just as fine minus the 3-D, but it doesn't hurt, y'know? But just another hint: the men and women you drool over look SO MUCH BETTER with the 3-D effect. I mean . . . Chris's brolicness . . . Natalie Portman's beautiful eyes . . .

-cough- anyway . . .

Thor is about a warrior who was banished from his land due to his arrogant and selfish behavior to be a king who looks for war instead of prepares for it, as his all powerful father, Oden, said. From there, he is sent to Earth to become humble and a better leader, and if he succeeds, he can have his weapon of mass destruction (the huge ass hammer) and become the rightful king of their land.

This movie was good, for what it's worth. It was entertaining, captivating, funny, and if you know of Thor, you would have jizzed at the fights and use of weapons seen in this film, (A number of dudes, including my boyfriend who grabbed my hand and squeezed so tightly, were jizzing when they saw Hawkeye!) The cast did a great job (Chris Hemsworth made a great Thor, no doubt. He did. Aside from the looks of it, his attitude was fantastic and believeable) and the action was good enough.

To me, the fact that Thor isn't the most amazing Marvel character (let's face it. He's not that great as compared to Spider-Man or the Hulk or Iron Man) meant that this movie had to have convinced you to say otherwise. Luckily, they focused on his homeland, his people, and what he's about and how he became Thor, the hero we (sorta kinda) love. Especially for the people that were dragged to see the movie not knowing a THING about him, when they went home, they went home learning and knowing about a Marvel character. I give them that, they did amazingly in this. Idris Elba, who plays the Gatekeeper? WOOO! Panty dropper. I loved his small role in it. Tom Hiddleston, who play's Thor's brother, Loki, was phenomenal! He was great, and Jaimie Alexander, who played Thor's kickass friend, Sif, was awesooooooome! She pwned so much ass, I was impressed. She was just boss. Ugh.

But aside from the kickass cast, there were some things to scratch your head with. Not HUGE things, but for those who deeply know about Thor, it bugged them. Majorly.

Let's take the romance between Natalie Portman's character, Jane, and Chris Hemsworth's Thor. In two days flat they "fell in love." It wasn't right or convincing. If she could have, she would have given it up to him just like that because of his manliness, way of speaking, and his knowledge of the skies, which she is all about! This part of the movie irked me because you can tell they really wanted a love interest for Thor, doesn't matter how quickly it happened.

Then there's him becoming humble. Whoooooaaaaaaa. Sent to Earth, acts tough as shit, beats people, tries to get away, all that jazz. The next day, he's nice. The next day? He's a changed man. 48 hours, guys. The pompous asshole changed in 48 hours, and not doing much, I'll mention. Usually people have an epiphany that aids in them changing. YOU SEE NO EPIPHANY FOR THOR. He just becomes humble! In the beginning of the movie, he puts people in danger just to fight some evil dudes. By the end, he doesn't want to fight his brother or harm those same people who he was harming in the beginning. I WAS NOT FEELING THAT.

Also, the bad guy was good (not spoiling anything) but their fight scene was weak, and the reason was so lame. Once again, this part of the movie irked me because you can tell they really wanted a showdown to happen, doesn't matter how quickly or lame it was.

But, aside from that, it was good. I wasn't entirely disappointed and it kept me intrigued, so I give it a 7/10.

Is it worth the theater watch? yeah, sure. Why not? Especially for the 3-D. It's good enough to spend $12 on, no joke.

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TIDBIT: Stay for after the credits. There's an "Avengers," sneak peek. Let's just say it involves a "cube." -wink!-

Why Do Girls Have To Prove They're Nerdy?

2011-05-03T11:00:00.000-07:00

I had brought the topic of people trying too hard in a blog post that was never posted--OOPSIE--where people proclaim about them being weird, crazy, and outrageous when in actually, a mass majority of us are the same and proclaiming does diddly squat. And one thing that bugs me is girls trying to seem like they're major nerds.

I don't mean to sound like a phony, but I really don't care for the label. I wouldn't place myself in a category because of the fact that I don't lean too close to one thing. I'm a mixture. I like too much to place myself in a mold where I emphasize more what that mold is about rather than who I am.

There are girls out there realizing a little too late that nerd boys are really hot in their own adorably-obsessed-over-gadgets-comics-action figures-and-stuff-of-that-nature kinda way. With the help of movies nowadays depicting nerds as the underdogs that are much better than the Alpha Male or the Bad Boy, nerds are totally IN. So now, girls are on the prowl. They are aware. Armed and ready. They wanna scoop a nerd. By doing what? Trying too hard of course.

Proclaiming to the world that Star Trek, cartoons, comics and video games are BOSS and everything they are about. Doing what they can to spark a conversation about something they read on Wikipedia last night and memorized for said conversation that is about to score them a date, or a nerd boy drooling over these try hard girls. And worse . . . these girls try to be nonchalant about it, as if this is no biggie. Being a nerd is cool.

These girls are trying to be a Juno when in fact they're a Serena van der Woodsen or Blair Waldorf.

The overexaggerated loose sarcasm, the keep to myself behavior, the Wonder Women graphic tees...

Don't females get that sometimes scoring a nerd and NOT being into what they're into is probably better than trying to be down with them? Think of it this way. This gives you both something to do. He'll teach you how to do a Hadouken while playing Marvel vs. Capcom 3, and you'll show him the holy grail that is contacts to replace those nerd glasses. It's a give and take. He scores the girly hot chick and you score the good guy. You both win. It's OK that you like make-up and Louis Vitton purses. Sometimes nerds even find it cute!

I scored a nerd. I personally don't label him as one but let's do it by society. In society, he's a nerd. Loves manga, comics, video games, cartoons, loves to dream and when he dreams, he dreams outrageous . . . that's who he is., and it is so effin' cute. He scored the chick who loves to be pretty. Loves to shop, loves to get dressed up, loves to stop at every store to see if they have that dress in the window in her size, who is constantly wrapped up in her hair, who loves make-up . . .

And you know what? He still loves the hell outta me. I wasn't into what he was into so what he did was try and introduce it to me. Video games, comics, manga . . . I got a PS3 and since then, with him by my side, helping me play and get into the field of video games, I was loving it. Now I'm a tad bit obsessed. A TAD. I find myself interested a teensy bit in comics and cartoons, watching G4, and doing some research. Not because I wanna try hard. But because it's something new but I've grown to like it. Matter of fact, our relationship has only gotten better because of this introduction. We have a range that has broadened because it has been introduced to me. In the meantime, I introduce him to a few romantic comedies ("When Harry Met Sally" is one of them. We watched it together and he loved it!) and even some of my favorite shows like "The Office," or "Community."

I'm a firm believer that what you do defines who you are. If you're a nerd, you don't need to proclaim it. It'll show. And you won't care because you love who you are. If you're a try hard? WE SEE RIGHT THROUGH YOU... Don't try and fool the measses, sweetie. You're simply embarrassing yourself.

And if you think getting embarrassed and called out on your bluff is bad from the popular IN crowd? Imagine a band of geeks. Maaaaaan . . . your pride is through.

NEW MUSIC: "Left Side Drive," by Solange

2011-05-03T09:46:00.000-07:00

Solange, my dear Solange, has finally graced us with her musical presence, which we can all agree that we've greatly missed. At least, I know I have. I've scoured many music sites in hopes a new Solange track surfaces. I've been on the look out for any mention of a new song or of her upcoming album on her Twitter . . . all with no success.

Until recently, of course, when she said via twitter:

“Wrote this over the amazing, Boards of Canada “Left side drive” a couple of years ago. It’s completely unofficial, and was just inspired by the song which i have had a deep love affair with for years. I am a huge Boards of Canada fan, and got the chance to work with them on Sol-Angel on “This Bird”. Still feel honored to this day.”

LEFT SIDE DRIVE by solange-knowles

Here is the song in which she spoke of. I AM NOT DISAPPOINTED. Her voice gets better every time I hear it, which was her last musical release, "Stillness is the Move."

-sways to the smooth rhythm and tinker of the instruments and the hypnotic tone of her voice-

What do you think?

Steve Carell Makes A Personal Goodbye Video to "The Office," Fans!

2011-04-30T11:29:00.000-07:00

I made a failed attempt Thursday night to hold back my tears as Michael Scott made his last appearance on "The Office." After Thursday's episode, the greatest boss on television has thrown away the "World's Best Boss," mug (replacing it with a personal "World's Best Boss 2011," trophy from the Dunder Mifflin Staff) and packed his bags to be with his soulmate, Holly, in Colorado.

Those who've been a faithful "The Office," viewer have grown a love for it so pure, you practically consider yourself a Dunder Mifflin employee. We've watched Michael change from a bit of a selfish and at times pompous asshole to an absolute sweetheart. We've seen him go from what he THOUGHT was love (Jan) to what he KNEW was love (Holly). We've seen him fail as a friend but triumph just as quickly in many situations. We've seen him scheme to get his way and then do the right thing. We've seen him make a fool of himself and we've seen him step up to be a truly great person. We've seen him bring people down but we've seen him pick them back up. We've practically sat in that conference room and laughed, rolled our eyes, gasped aloud, and shook our head to the conversations brought up in there.

Michael Scott is many things. But we cannot deny how great of a man he is.

I'm talking as if someone has passed away or has moved, but see? That's just it. Michael Scott might be a fictional character, but the way Steve Carell has brought him to life, you can swear that you've worked for him, and that your heart pounded with happiness while you held that candle to aid Michael in that grand proposal he made to Holly. You also felt your heart shatter when just a minute later, he told us all he was leaving.

Tonight was so difficult, knowing that this wonderful show will continue without the person who brought it to what it is.

Here is a video of Steve Carell, the man who touched our hearts, giving us Dunder Mifflin employees his own farewell.

Michael Scott Is The Biggest Boss
That We've Seen Thus Far.
I love you. You will be greatly missed.

Source: Vulture

Chiddy of 'Chiddy Bang' Breaks World Record for Longest Freestyle!

2011-04-28T21:12:00.000-07:00

During MTV's first ever O (Online) Music Awards, Chidera "Chiddy" Anamege (on the left of photo) from the rap duo Chiddy Bang, attempted to freestyle live for 9 hours straight to earn the Guinness World Records title for "Longest Freestyle Rap," with the time to beat being 9 hours, 15 minutes and 15 seconds by a Indianapolis rapper named M-Eighty.

You wonder what a person can go for 9 hours rapping about, right? Chiddy was ahead of us, asking his followers via twitter to give him some topics to freestyle about.

And how, do you ask did he prepare? "I just gotta get a good night's rest, eat a healthy breakfast."

CONGRATS, CHIDDY!

Source: Rap Fix

NEW MUSIC (VIDEO): "Words I Never Said," by Lupe Fiasco ft. Skylar Grey

2011-04-28T09:30:00.000-07:00

The hit from his new album "Lasers," that had his loyal fans proclaiming "LUPE IS BACK," finally has a video to back up for it! Check it out. I must say, it's worth the 5+ minutes. Powerful in it's message and is sure to have some controversial output, Lupe indeed did something great here.

IN CASE YOU DIDN'T SEE/HEAR/KNOW...

2011-04-27T08:07:00.000-07:00

---After Donald Trump questioned the authenticity of our President's citizenship in a plea to increase his fame (in my opinion), Obama finally displays his birth certificate, but then scolds the media, saying "We don't have time for this silliness..." -click here-

---The host for the MTV Movie Awards 2011 is SNL's Jason Sudeikis, making him the 9th SNL alum to host the awards. -click here-

---The Looney Tunes are coming back with a brand new series that (surprisingly0 does not seem to disappoint! -click here-

---Lisa Price, the creator and founder of beauty products, "Carol's Daughter," interviews the new faces of CD, Solange, Selita Ebanks and Cassie. -click here-

---Here's a first look at Julianne Moore portraying Sarah Palin in the HBO drama "Game Change." -click here-

---The amazing forever loving prim and proper Fonzworth Bentley has come out with a mixtape! -click here-

---(VIDEO FEATURE!) Here's the redband (unrated) trailer for Maya Rudolph and Kristen Wiig's latest comedic hit, "Bridesmaids,' which comes out in theatres May 13th.

NEW MUSIC (VIDEO): Beyonce's "Move Your Body," Video!

2011-04-26T18:25:00.000-07:00

No, this isn't just a NORMAL music video. Though it would be pretty cute if it was with Bee dancing with a bunch of elementary school kids. If you don't already know, Beyonce and Michelle Obama teamed up with the National Association of Broadcasters Education Foundation for the "Let's Move! Flash Workout," campaign to help fight child obesity.

And to help get the kids exercising with some fun is a remade version of Bee's hit "Get Me Bodied," which is called "Move Your Body!"

TIDBIT: Check out her dougie!

Hacker Steals Data from 77 Million PSN Users! WTF?!

2011-04-26T17:02:00.000-07:00

My Goodness, this fiasco just keeps getting worse by the minute! What the hell is going on?!

A hacker stole the names, birth dates and possibly credit-card numbers for 77 million people who play online videogames through Sony Corp.'s PlayStation console, in what could rank among the biggest data breaches in history.

Sony, whose gaming network has been offline for six days, disclosed Tuesday that an "illegal and unauthorized intrusion" between April 17 and April 19 resulted in the loss of a significant amount of personal information that could be used in identity theft.

The PlayStation Network is used by owners of the company's game machine to play against one another, chat online and watch movies streamed over the Internet. Sony warned users the intruders may have accessed billing addresses, purchase histories and account information for their children.

My God, this has seriously gotten out of hand. For everyone who buys games online through the Play Station Store . . . this definitely has you shitting bricks.

Fueled by fast Internet connections, online-gaming services have become global social hubs for tens of millions of people who spend hours competing and cooperating on fantasy quests, combat missions and other activities. People across the globe pay monthly fees to play online-computer games like "World of Warcraft." Most titles for the PlayStation 3 and Microsoft Corp. Xbox 360 have online components.

Sony warned members of its PlayStation Network and a related entertainment service called Qriocity to closely watch their credit card statements for unauthorized charges. It also told members to be on guard against email, telephone and postal scams aided by the lost personal information.

"While there is no evidence at this time that credit card data was taken, we cannot rule out the possibility," Sony said in a blog post.

The PlayStation Network, meanwhile, remains out of commission, sowing frustration among gamers. In the blog post, Sony spokesman Patrick Seybold said the company has a "clear path" to restore "some services within a week."

Geez the wheeze . . . I'm really hoping they bring it back up in the next week. To think a hacker is this heartless to the faithful PS3 gamers of the world . . .

To read the rest of the article, click here.

Newest Celeb To Leak Nude Pics Is . . .

2011-04-25T17:21:00.001-07:00

Steph Jones, guys. (???)

Yep. We know the Hollywood trend. You can't expect to be badass or taken seriously if you don't have a few dirty pics "accidentally slipping" onto the net and into the minds of many. And apparently, Steph Jones who is Jordin Sparks' ex-boyfriend and a supposed musical artist, had some of his photos leak from a friend of celebrity blogger Miss Jia.

Well, it looks like Southern Love crooner (and ex-boyfriend to Jordin Sparks), Steph Jones is the next celeb to be caught with his pants down. According to my boy, Carlton Jordan, a very interesting email accompanied the photos:

"I’m so tired of these wack ass celebs claiming to be innocent and holier than thou. Steph Jones is a typical industry nigga. He was fucking me while he was with Jordin Sparks. I went in his phone while he was in the bathroom and saw their texts. She is definitely not a virgin as she claims to be either because the texts I saw with her telling him she missed him and needed to feel him inside of her are definitely not the words of a virgin. Anyway. I would have kept these to myself but I’m so sick of seeing him pretend to be a saint on twitter that I decided to let the world see what a saint he truly is. His dick is big but he is selfish and doesn’t use it well. He acts like a bitch so it’s hard to really enjoy it."

Wow! So not only has he been "cheating" on Jordin Sparks, but he has been doing so with a man! Uh . . . -headscratch, head tilt- Sure! We'll go with that . . .

To be frank, I have no musical knowledge of Steph Jones. I know of him, but I wouldn't label him a celebrity. For the most part, he was known for being Jordin's boy toy, at least to me. Which doesn't make him that important.

To see the unrated pics click here and here.

-side eye to those pics- Y'all have a nice day . . .

Source: Miss Jia

MOVIE TRAILER: "The Devil's Double," starring Dominic Cooper

2011-04-25T17:00:00.000-07:00

Based on actual events, The Devil’s Double recounts the remarkable tale of Latif Yahia, an Iraqi army lieutenant who was summoned to Saddam Hussein’s palace in 1987 and ordered to become the fiday, or body double, of his notorious eldest son, Uday. Many of his countrymen might have considered this a great honor, but it was merely the beginning of a hellish nightmare for Latif. Under the constant threat of harm to his family, he had no choice but to play the role of silent witness while his nefarious captor indulged in countless brutal and depraved fantasies with no regard for human life.

In a brilliant turn, Dominic Cooper portrays both Uday and Latif with impressive ease, transitioning seamlessly between the personae of ruthless madman and disgusted observer. Director Lee Tamahori (Once Were Warriors) makes his return to the Sundance Film Festival with this unimaginable true story straight from Saddam’s Iraq.

Watching this trailer, it looks intense in a way that has me tilting my head but also has be jotting its release date down on my calendar. A must-see, in my book.

Source: Sundance

Nicki Minaj is Allure's new Face.

2011-04-25T15:43:00.000-07:00

I'll say it now and I'll say it again. This girl is truly photo perfect. She's a stunner in whatever editorial she takes.

Being Allure's newest Face, talks about her wig collection (let's read about that!), her alter egos, and her beauty icons:

How many wigs do you have? A hundred? Right before I walk out the door, I grab one. Today, I wore a beige jacket and brown boots and I wanted to keep the whole earth-tone color scheme, so I did blonde. But it all depends on my mood. I just like to feel euphoric and free—so I'm going for more of the pink and the crazy, weird stuff now.

Do your alter egos have their own styles? They definitely do. Martha's an older lady in her 60s or 50s. The nerdy look I did in my Saturday Night Live sketch was Dexter. I haven't unveiled Roman yet. I can't wait to show everyone what he looks like! I think that my more flamboyant stuff is definitely not Nicki—it's basically Roman in drag.

Do you have any beauty icons? I love Cyndi Lauper's style. I remember watching her as a kid and thinking, I don't know who this is, but I want to hang out with her. Her style looked like a piece of art to me.

What beauty products are in your purse? My M.A.C. lipstick [Pink for Friday]; an amazing Chanel lip balm, some sponges to constantly blot my face, and a full bottle of Chloé. I'm really obsessed with it. It's my airport duty-free purchase whenever I'm flying.

Will you give it up to do your own celebrity fragrance? Of course! Hopefully, I'll do one this year. I like scents that feel summer-y, but have a va-va-voom [factor]. I want to smell like a sexy and confident woman, not like candy.

What beauty task do you hate? You know what's so messed up? I used to love getting my nails done; it was a time of relaxation. Now, I want to choke myself because I can't pause my life. In L.A. the nail technicians take 18 hours for a freakin' fill-in [for acrylics]. My phone goes off a billion times.

Oooooh, Nicki.

Source: Allure

Paul Reiser Show CANCELED!

2011-04-25T15:34:00.000-07:00

Not to mention after 2 episodes! Whoa buddy . . .

The show about a former TV star who now lives a normal life but wants to give his life some UMPH with the help of his friends that replaced the new-but-canceled-show "Perfect Couples," and aired after "Community," on NBC's Thursday Night Line-up, received just a 1.1 adults 18-49 rating its debut and deemed NBC's lowest rated show in all NBC's history. Not to mention the second episode grabbing a 23% drop to 2.54 million viewers and a 0.9 rating.

MY GOD.

To replace it will be reruns of "The Office."

Is this surprising? I mean, I caught the premiere after watching "Community," and I did change the channel after ten minutes . . .

Source: Splitsider

The Lonely Island's "Turtleneck & Chains," Tracklist

2011-04-25T14:55:00.000-07:00

The Lonely Island (who's genius/hilarious/undeniably jamming track, "Mother Lover," ft. Justin Timberlake has just been available for download on iTunes) have released the tracklist for their new album, "Turtleneck & Chains," which is out May 10th.

The Lonely Island - Turtleneck & Chain (Tracklist)

01 We're Back!
02 Mama
03 I Just Had Sex [ft. Akon]
04 Jack Sparrow [ft. Michael Bolton]
05 Attracted to Us [ft. Beck]
06 Rocky
07 My Mic (Interlude)
08 Turtleneck & Chain [ft. Snoop Dogg]
09 Shy Ronnie 2: Ronnie & Clyde [ft. Rihanna]
10 Trouble on Dookie Island
11 Falcor vs. Atreyu (Classy Skit #1)
12 Motherlover [ft. Justin Timberlake]
13 The Creep [ft. Nicki Minaj & John Waters]
14 Watch Me Do Me (Classy Skit #2)
15 Threw It on the Ground
16 Japan
17 After Party [ft. Santigold]
18 No Homo
19 No Homo Outro

DVD:

01 We're Back!
02 I Just Had Sex [ft. Akon]
03 The Creep [ft. Nicki Minaj & John Waters]
04 Motherlover [ft. Justin Timberlake]
05 Shy Ronnie 2: Ronnie & Clyde [ft. Rihanna]
06 Threw It on the Ground
07 We'll Kill U
08 Reba (Two Worlds Collide) [ft. Kenan Thompson]
09 Great Day

Featuring artists such as Snoop, Santigold (My God, she's not holding back on this promotion for her album coming out soon!), Nicki Minaj and more with the DVD consisting of their SNL Digital Short videos, this is sure to be a buy. I mean . . . humor and music and geeky hot guys in one? C'moooon...

Will you be buying?

Source: Hypetrak

Doc Martens Clothing?

2011-04-25T13:25:00.000-07:00

The infamous hipster boots which go oh too well with sundresses, jean jackets, matted hair and runny eyeliner (lol joking), is now coming out with clothes! Reveiling some of their collection which has been released today in the US.

The clothing is inspired by the very celebrities that rock the Docs, including model Agyness Deyn, and consists of shirts, sweatshirts and even dress (for ladies) and button downs, printed tees and striped shirts (for men).

Ranging from £30 - £70, you can buy the collection in stores or online on Drmarten.com.

Hail and rejoice, Hipsters. HAIL AND REJOICE.

Source: The Fader

Photos Courtesy: Telegraph

NEW MUSIC: "Don't Play No Game I Can't Win," by Beastie Boys ft. Santigold

2011-04-25T12:45:00.000-07:00

Well, hold the phone. The Beastie Boys are collaborating with Santigold on a track? My God, this girl is coming on the come-up mega quick and the Beastie Boys are doing what they can to establish that they haven't gone anywhere, but have simply taken a little break. check out this track.

"Don't Play No Game I Can't Win," by Beastie Boys ft. Santigold

I've got to say, I am not complaining. This is pretty good. Can this go into my Summer Anthem '11 playlist? Maybe . . .

Source: Hypetrak

The Reason for PSN's Bullcrap

2011-04-25T11:49:00.000-07:00

If you're an avid Playstation 3 player and tend to go absolutely apeshit online, then I would not be surprised if you flipped tables, ripped chin hairs and caused major mayhem for the Play Station Network being down since . . . what, last week?

As of this morning, the PlayStation Network is still not functioning. According to Sony, the PSN was taken down by the company due to an "external intrusion," in other words, you can't play your PlayStation 3 online because someone apparently either tried to, or was successful at, accessing the PlayStation Network unauthorized. There is no update on when we can expect the PSN to be back up.

Here's the official statement from Sony's senior director of corporate communications and social media, Patrick Seybold:

"An external intrusion on our system has affected our PlayStation Network and Qriocity services. In order to conduct a thorough investigation and to verify the smooth and secure operation of our network services going forward, we turned off PlayStation Network & Qriocity services on the evening of Wednesday, April 20th. Providing quality entertainment services to our customers and partners is our utmost priority. We are doing all we can to resolve this situation quickly, and we once again thank you for your patience. We will continue to update you promptly as we have additional information to share."

While people claiming to represent hacking group Anonymous have both implicitly taken responsibility for the outage on their facebook page and denied having any involvement on their website, right now, there's no way of telling who is behind the intrusion.

It's possible that the PSN Outage that happened on April 4, for which Anonymous did take responsibility, is the real culprit here. Sony's response to the DDoS attack of a few weeks ago may have been to fight against future DDoS attacks by updating their network, and maybe part of that investigation and update involves shutting down the PSN for maintenance.

That possibility fits in perfectly with the most recent statement the company has issued, particularly this sentence: "We turned off PlayStation Network & Qriocity services on the evening of Wednesday, April 20th."

Note the "we turned off" part of that sentence. Sony seems to be making it clear that no one "took down" the PSN but Sony itself, which, if we take Sony at their word, could imply this was not a DDoS attack, and thus, probably not the work of Anonymous, as a collective. It could be individual "members" of Anonymous, though, working independently, as Anonymous itself has said.

VIDEO: Hacker GeoHot on Attack of the Show

In a sense, the best case scenario is that Anonymous is behind the outage. In the past, when Anonymous targeted a site or network, they generally used a Distributed Denial of Service attack -- in other words, orchestrating networks of computers to "hit" servers with info requests all at once. The service is then overloaded and goes down -- bam, network offline temporarily. Think of it as a brute force attack with a sledgehammer. It kills the network, but in a sense doesn't "hack" it. No unauthorized access is obtained.

While I'm sure Sony has a ton of encryption and security processes in place to prevent anyone from causing real damage to their network and protect users' information, even the possibility of a more sophisticated, targeted hack of the PSN is troubling. After all, Anonymous members having a laugh at the expense of gamers and Sony is an inconvenience and a pain, but professional, criminal hackers could potentially cause much more serious problems. Let's hope it's nothing of that sort.

The bottom line for users: The PlayStation Network is down. We don't know why. Sorry for the bad news, but there's no word now on when the PSN will be back up.

OMG. I mean, I haven't been able to go online for the longest time and it's so painful. I mean, the plus side is that I can finally do my homework and concentrate on my life, but the downside? Having that lingering hope that it'll come back up and knowing that no one knows what to do to get it back up.

How bad are you suffering?!

Source: G4 TV

Jim Carrey To Guest Star On "The Office"?!

2011-04-23T19:34:00.000-07:00

EEEEEEK! Oh my goodness, I can't believe this. I'm pulling at my hair and flattening my cheeks right now.

Who's next: Tom Cruise? Late Thursday it was revealed that Jim Carrey would make a guest appearance on the season finale of The Office. For those keeping score at home, Carrey is the sixth star to sign on for a cameo appearance, joining Ricky Gervais, Will Arnett, James Spader, Ray Romano and the little-known Catherine Tate.

No word yet on exactly who Carrey will play, but assume he'll be vying for the vacant position of branch manager in the wake of Michael Scott's (Steve Carell) exit. Which begs the question: What will happen to Will Ferrell. His Deangelo Vickers is being groomed to take over for Michael, and while we all know that won't actually happen, it does make you wonder how The Office will get out of that Ferrell-size pickle.

I mean, they are doing anything BUT making Michael Scott's exit small and quick. Seriously? Jim Carrey, Will Ferrell, Ray Romano, Catherine Tate, James Spader and Ricky Gervais (yes, there are more names added!). UGH! This is too much! Too much but too good!

HOW EXCITED ARE YOU?!

Source: Complex Magazine

Karmin, "Look At Me Now," Cover

2011-04-23T17:40:00.000-07:00

Tee hee! I didn't know what I was expecting when I pressed the play button. Maybe a girl, with the aid of her keyboard playing friend, singing a version of "Look At Me Now"? Lol, looks can definitely be deceiving. This was genius on so many levels, man.

How To: Head Wraps!

2011-04-23T15:03:00.000-07:00

When it comes to protective hairstyles, I am such a noob. My hair has a mind of its own, so some parts are short, some long. Some straight, some curly. Surely enough, I can't keep up. So when I'm frustrated with it and I wanna put it away and shun it from society, I use a headwrap, which has become my best friend.

Here are some photos and videos of headwraps and how to them:

[ source ]

THIS IS ME:

Unfortunately you can't see everything. Whiiiich sucks. But when I wear it again, I shall include a full pledged pic.

What Do You Think?

NEW MUSIC (VIDEO): "Alive," by Daft Punk (Directed by Emile Hirsch)

2011-04-23T14:21:00.000-07:00

We all know of Daft Punk and how epic they are. It's no hidden secret. So check out their latest music video directed by cutie and actor Emile Hirsch!

"Portal 2," named one of 2011's Best Games?

2011-04-23T14:09:00.000-07:00

Apparently so!

It's not just still alive -- it's alive and kicking.

Cleverly written, boldly innovative and filled to the brim with some of the most brilliant gameplay ever put to ones and zeroes, the short but sweet first-person puzzle game Portal was an instant hit when it was released as part of The Orange Box compilation of Half-Life games in 2007.

While it never enjoyed the broad crossover success of blockbusters like Halo and Call of Duty, Portal introduced a deliciously duplicitous meme, topped countless Game of the Year lists, and set the stage for a serious coming out party in its sequel.

Thanks to a few ugly delays, that took a bit longer than expected. And now that Portal 2 has arrived for the PC, Xbox 360 and PS3, can it live up the immense hype?

As the evil robot GLaDOS might say, it's a monster.

Though it's been out for barely a day, it's averaging an astonishing 95% at Metacritic, currently making Portal 2 the best reviewed game of 2011.

Taking place many, many years after the events of the original game, Portal 2 once again drops silent lead character and unfortunate test subject Chell into a series of ruthless spatial challenges overseen by a passive-aggressive, malevolent robot. And while the first game was no slouch, this one goes much, much bigger.

"It's a work of masterful craft, mechanically constructed with military precision, artistically wrapped in a tremendous story and environment," gushes The Telegraph's Tom Hoggins, adding that it "effortlessly represents the medium at its very best." He gives it a perfect 10/10.

But is it as fiendishly funny as the first game? According to Game Infomer, you betcha.

"The dialogue's pitch-perfect delivery is half of Portal 2's genius," the pub proclaims, thanks in large part to a few new characters. "I never once thought I'd place [evil robot] GLaDOS second on any list of Portal characters, but J.K. Simmons' character surpasses the malevolent AI even though she's as amusing as ever. I was never bored of the dialogue, settings, or puzzles," insists writer Adam Biessener in a glowing 9.5/10 piece.

IGN scored it the same, in part because they were blown away by the game's look and feel. Running on the same Source engine that powered the first game and fellow critical darling Half-Life 2, it's still a serious powerhouse.

"The attention to detail throughout is nothing short of stunning," says reviewer Charles Onyett. "Metal girders and structural supports break and crash into each another, snapping apart in chaotic and natural ways, consistently serving not only to entertain the eye but to expand our understanding of the game's characters."

But like most games, the real star of the show is in Portal 2's gameplay. The portal gun -- which opens two portals between surfaces, allowing players to literally walk through walls -- makes a return, along with new toys like a gel gun that can turn basic surfaces into trampolines. The result makes for some seriously devious puzzles...in a very, very good way.

"Portal 2 smartly introduces each idea one at a time before requiring you to use them in concert," points out Giant Bomb's Ryan Davis, who loved it so much he "actually felt a little melancholy once Portal 2 was over" because it was just that awesome. His score? What else -- a 5/5.

The game's new co-operative mode (which features a standalone story) also gets high marks, leaving the one consistent source of criticism aimed toward the game's somewhat slower second act. "The pacing sags and the story becomes more concerned with the past than anything else," says IGN.

But when you're scoring 95% across over 20 critics, there's really, truly not much wrong with you. Take it away, GamePro.

"Valve's latest is an absolute must-own, plain and simple," gushes the site in a 5/5 review, noting that it was "more than worth the wait."

And that, it seems, is no lie.

I've seen the commercials several times and it peaked my interest. Then I saw the trailer (below) and also the footage video and I was REALLY interested. I have yet to play "Portal," which was a great play, so I've heard. And if "Portal 2," is this top notch, then what am I waiting for?!

"Portal 2," Teaser Trailer.

"Portal 2," Footage.

Source: Yahoo! Games

Jesse Eisenburg & Aziz Ansari to Star In "30 Minutes or Less."

2011-04-21T10:08:00.000-07:00

After summer movie audiences are bombarded for three straight months with superheros and sequels, it’ll be nice to sit down for a few original laughs. 30 Minutes Or Less, written by first time screenwriter Michael Diliberti and directed by Ruben Fleischer, stars Danny McBride and Nick Swardson as wanna-be-criminals who kidnap a pizza-delivery guy, (Oscar-nominee Jesse Eisenberg) to help them rob bank. He then recruits his best friend, played by Aziz Ansari (Parks & Recreations) to assist in the caper. The premise, combined with that cast, seems like a winning combination and while most of us will have to wait until August 12 to find out for sure, for now we can look at some brand new images from the film.

Here’s hoping 30 Minutes or Less has a good, R-rated sensibility and a little heart. If it has both of those things, it’s got a shot at being something special.

Hmmm . . . doesn't sound too bad. This seems like a movie that has a basic but funny plot to it, but will rely on the humor. Like, seriously RELY on it. Let's see what happens.

Are you interested?

Source: Slash Film

Seth Rogen, Elijah Wood & Danny McBride are the Beastie Boys!

2011-04-21T09:37:00.000-07:00

You guys DO know about the return of the Beastie Boys, right? I'm hoping so because the rap duo is back with a new album coming out May 3rd called "Hot Sauce Committee Part 2," and debuted the new video to their new single "Make Some Noise," last night on MTV.

And what best way is there to advertise said album than to have some household named comedians such as Will Ferrell, Seth Rogen, Elijah Wood, Jack Black, Will Arnett and John C. Reilly, film a 30-minute spoof of the 1986 Beastie Boys hit "Fight For Your Right," called "Fight For Your Right Revisited"??!

Here's the Trailer.

Here's the Official Video, directed by Beastie's very own, Adam Yauch.

There are so many celebs here such as Chloe Sevigny, Jason Schwartzman, Rashida Jones, Stanley Tucci, Susan Surandon . . .

REALLY?! It doesn't get any better than this!

Video Source: MTV

NEW MUSIC (VIDEO): "Rain Check," by J*Davey

2011-04-21T09:11:00.000-07:00

J*Davey . . . the duo consisting of Briana Cartwright, whose stage name is Jack Davey and male producer Brook D'Leau. A group with music categorized as alternative hip hop, alternative rock, soul, electronica, fusion, jazz, punk, funk, new wave and R&B futurists. A group so eclectic, but a group so interesting . . .

Tee hee! I went in, didn't I?

If you know about J*Davey, you were on the right track. If not, then it's never too late to get into their tunes, especially with this song.

The song in itself is major sexy and simple. Nothing extravagant, but it hits you seductively. And not to mention the video just sets it on fire! Whooo, Jack Davey is pounding hearts and giving people wet dreams! Loves it.

What do you think?

Kat Dennings Shoot! WHOO HOO!

2011-04-16T13:44:00.000-07:00

You know I cannot get enough of this girl. SURELY. Kat shows off her effortless beauty for Philadelphia Style, in which she also did an interview!

To read the interview she did that comes along with these beautiful photos, click here!
Trust me, this interview is actually much much better than the Complex one she did. EEK.

-----------------

TIDBIT: Here's a video of the shoot, to give you guys a little treat if you can't get enough, like I can't. OOH, KAT.

Photos/Video Courtesy: Philadelphia Style