Or SYTYCD to us nerds. This type of dance/competition show is the only thing I love about reality television. Not only are these dancers unbelievably talented, they are performing choreography that is created by true visionaries. Here are some of the top dances of the season.
Breast Cancer Tribute
Dancers Melissa and Ade performed this beautiful contemporary dance from choreographer Tyce Diorio. The moving piece tells the story of a woman fighting for her life and a man who stands by her side. All the judges were moved to tears by the performance. And if you are not, well, you are dead inside...
Daring Disco
Brandon and Janette put on their dancing shoes for this fun disco number. Choreographer Dorianna Sanchez adds a breath of fresh air to this style of dance. And when you are working with a great (and strong) duo like Brandon and Janette, the dance world is your oyster.
Something Addicting
Kayla and Kupono dance a number symbolic of a woman dealing with addiction. Kayla is the needy addictor and Kupono is the dark addiction. This number comes from the brilliant mind of Mia Michaels. It is truly beautiful.
Love is a Battlefield
Laurieann Gibson brought duo Jeanine and Brandon together for a great pop jazz routine. There is no story here, Gibson says the story is the dancer. And, boy, they did a great job telling a story of their own.
No Ifs, Ands, or...
Choreographer Mia Micheals makes it all about the butt in this performance by Evan and Randi. These dancers are cute together and bring a lot to the stage. It's a fun and originative piece that will put a smile on your face.
Hard Hitting
They really put the dancers through the ringer this season. Kayla is now in a number about an beaten woman in an abusive relationship. Canadian choreographer Stacey Tookey created this chilling piece that was so moving and painful, yet so beautiful.
Jai Ho
Bollywood has never been such a fascinating subject as it is today. And dancers Jason and Caitlin only add to the fun and wonder of this style of dance. Nikuul choreographed such a fun and whisical piece, danced spectacularly to the Slumdog Millionaire soundtrack.
Eight is Great
Seeing the Top 8 perform together was a treat. Especially when past season dancer Travis Wall created the number. The piece is funky, fun, and the perfect number for these talented dancers. Break out the glow sticks!
Tabitha and Napoleon D'Umo Highlights
I truly love these choreographers. They bring out the best in these dancers (even when they are chained together). Here are some of my favorites: both from dancers Jeanine and Philip.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Monday, July 27, 2009
Coming This Fall...Part Two
Hello all. Here's the rest of the shows that appear appealing for fall. A bit disappointed at what these three stations have to offer (minus Fox's Glee), but I usually am.
What's on CBS
The Good Wife
Well, this is the only show on CBS that caught my eye. Mostly because it stars Julianna Margulies (ER) and Chris Noth (Law and Order). Her character seems dimensional and the plot appears promising. And the geeky part of me wants to root for this show because it also stars Matt Czuchry (aka Logan Huntsburger from Gilmore Girls). The Good Wife airs September 22.
What's on Fox
Glee
The pilot was aired after an episode of American Idol, and it caught the world (and critics) by storm. This beloved dramedy comes from the imaginative mind of Ryan Murphy (Nip/Tuck). It revolves around a high school glee club struggling to find their voice both on and off stage. It's quirky, lovable, and available for viewing at fox.com. Warning: You will fall in love with their version of Journey's Don't Stop Believing. The series continues on September 16.
Human Target
Based on the popular DC Comics comic book and graphic novel, Human Target is an action drama revolving around character Christopher Chance (well played by Fringe's Mark Valley), a man hired to protect those who need him. The pilot includes Battlestar Gallactica's Tricia Helfer, so it's got to be good. Not to mention the ever talented character actors Chi McBride (Pushing Daisies) and Jackie Earl Haley (Watchmen) round out the cast. But we have to wait to see them share the small screen until 2010.
What's on CBS
The Good Wife
Well, this is the only show on CBS that caught my eye. Mostly because it stars Julianna Margulies (ER) and Chris Noth (Law and Order). Her character seems dimensional and the plot appears promising. And the geeky part of me wants to root for this show because it also stars Matt Czuchry (aka Logan Huntsburger from Gilmore Girls). The Good Wife airs September 22.
What's on Fox
Glee
The pilot was aired after an episode of American Idol, and it caught the world (and critics) by storm. This beloved dramedy comes from the imaginative mind of Ryan Murphy (Nip/Tuck). It revolves around a high school glee club struggling to find their voice both on and off stage. It's quirky, lovable, and available for viewing at fox.com. Warning: You will fall in love with their version of Journey's Don't Stop Believing. The series continues on September 16.
Human Target
Based on the popular DC Comics comic book and graphic novel, Human Target is an action drama revolving around character Christopher Chance (well played by Fringe's Mark Valley), a man hired to protect those who need him. The pilot includes Battlestar Gallactica's Tricia Helfer, so it's got to be good. Not to mention the ever talented character actors Chi McBride (Pushing Daisies) and Jackie Earl Haley (Watchmen) round out the cast. But we have to wait to see them share the small screen until 2010.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Coming This Fall...
In times of high temperatures and sweltering surroundings, the small whisper of fall is always a welcome one. And though the coming season brings colored leaves and cooler temperatures, it also marks the beginning of intriguing story lines, well developed characters, and brilliant scripts. I'm talking about the plethora of new television series that hits the small screen when September rolls around. I scoped out what's on the fall schedule and have picked my must-sees.
Note: You will NOT find a single reality show here. To me, it does not define what true television is. It's just trash that can be made cheaply. OK, now that we have that out of the way...
What's on ABC:
Flash Forward
This suspenseful drama is based on the novel of the same name by Robert J. Sawyer and seems very Lost-esque with involved plots and tortured characters. Not to mention Lost's Dominic Monaghan (AKA Charlie) joins the cast. He does not appear in the season's two-hour pilot, and not much is known about his character, only that his name Simon. The show's co-creator, David S. Goyer, revealed very little about Monaghan's role at last week's Comic-Con. Flash Forward premieres on September 24.
V
I am excited for this new sci-fi series, but a little sad if it means the end of Elizabeth Mitchell (who plays Juliet) on Lost. ABC says that she will appear in both series, but you never know just where Lost will take you. Besides Mitchell, V has a promising cast, including Alan Tudyk (Firefly), Scott Wolf (Party of Five), and Scott Gretsch (The 4400). This trailer definitely pulls you into the mystery. We will see how audiences react to this remake of an 80s (and not-so-popular, yet a huge cult classic) mini-series in November.
Modern Family
In a two-minute promo, this modern comedy about modern people telling modern stories has a lot of promise. Seeing a father sing and dance his way through High School Musical as his children look on in embarrassment is pretty pricelesss. It might get a little old, but with an endearing cast that includes Ed O'Neil (Married With Children) and Julie Bowen (Ed), it could just be a breath of fresh (and comedic) air. Modern Family is introduced to audiences September 23.
What's on NBC
Community
Two Words: Joel McHale. That is all that should sell you on this comedy about the roller coaster ride that is community college. McHale is the brilliant host of The Soup and has such a likability to his comedy dryness. Throw Chevy Chase and directors Joe and Anthony Russo (Arrested Development fans will know what I'm talking about) into this mix and you have one heckuva show. Another bit of great news: it has earned itself a slot on Thursday night among the greats of The Office and 30 Rock, airing October 8.
Trauma
Those who are missing ER, or are thirsting for another great medical drama, here it is. Trauma centers on characters who, as they say, "run towards the disaster instead of away from it." They are first responder paramedics battling their own hang-ups and demons. This show has the promise of being intense and boasts up-and-coming actors such as Derek Luke (Antwone Fisher) and Anastasia Griffith (Damages). Catch its premiere on September 28.
Parenthood
The lovable movie of 1989 is coming to the small screen. This dramedy centers around the charms and challenges of family and critics are already raving. Nelson, Peter Krause (Six Feet Under), Maura Tierney (ER), are just a few of the actors that round up the notable cast. It was supposed to air in September but, due to Tierney's health scare, has been pushed to midseason.
Catch the blog tomorrow, when I will give you a look at what's coming this fall to CBS, FOX, and the CW.
Note: You will NOT find a single reality show here. To me, it does not define what true television is. It's just trash that can be made cheaply. OK, now that we have that out of the way...
What's on ABC:
Flash Forward
This suspenseful drama is based on the novel of the same name by Robert J. Sawyer and seems very Lost-esque with involved plots and tortured characters. Not to mention Lost's Dominic Monaghan (AKA Charlie) joins the cast. He does not appear in the season's two-hour pilot, and not much is known about his character, only that his name Simon. The show's co-creator, David S. Goyer, revealed very little about Monaghan's role at last week's Comic-Con. Flash Forward premieres on September 24.
V
I am excited for this new sci-fi series, but a little sad if it means the end of Elizabeth Mitchell (who plays Juliet) on Lost. ABC says that she will appear in both series, but you never know just where Lost will take you. Besides Mitchell, V has a promising cast, including Alan Tudyk (Firefly), Scott Wolf (Party of Five), and Scott Gretsch (The 4400). This trailer definitely pulls you into the mystery. We will see how audiences react to this remake of an 80s (and not-so-popular, yet a huge cult classic) mini-series in November.
Modern Family
In a two-minute promo, this modern comedy about modern people telling modern stories has a lot of promise. Seeing a father sing and dance his way through High School Musical as his children look on in embarrassment is pretty pricelesss. It might get a little old, but with an endearing cast that includes Ed O'Neil (Married With Children) and Julie Bowen (Ed), it could just be a breath of fresh (and comedic) air. Modern Family is introduced to audiences September 23.
What's on NBC
Community
Two Words: Joel McHale. That is all that should sell you on this comedy about the roller coaster ride that is community college. McHale is the brilliant host of The Soup and has such a likability to his comedy dryness. Throw Chevy Chase and directors Joe and Anthony Russo (Arrested Development fans will know what I'm talking about) into this mix and you have one heckuva show. Another bit of great news: it has earned itself a slot on Thursday night among the greats of The Office and 30 Rock, airing October 8.
Trauma
Those who are missing ER, or are thirsting for another great medical drama, here it is. Trauma centers on characters who, as they say, "run towards the disaster instead of away from it." They are first responder paramedics battling their own hang-ups and demons. This show has the promise of being intense and boasts up-and-coming actors such as Derek Luke (Antwone Fisher) and Anastasia Griffith (Damages). Catch its premiere on September 28.
Parenthood
The lovable movie of 1989 is coming to the small screen. This dramedy centers around the charms and challenges of family and critics are already raving. Nelson, Peter Krause (Six Feet Under), Maura Tierney (ER), are just a few of the actors that round up the notable cast. It was supposed to air in September but, due to Tierney's health scare, has been pushed to midseason.
Catch the blog tomorrow, when I will give you a look at what's coming this fall to CBS, FOX, and the CW.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Emmy's Crowns and Frowns
When award season comes around, no one is ever completely happy. Especially me. And now that I have an outlet to vent my frustrations, I will selfishly (and indulgently) write away at the high-lights (Jemaine from Flight of the Conchords!) and low-lifes (Charlie Sheen, again, really?). And away we go...The Nominees
Outstanding Lead Actor In A Comedy Series
Jim Parsons, Big Bang Theory
Jemaine Clement, Flight Of The Conchords
Tony Shalhoub, Monk
Steve Carell, The Office
Alec Baldwin, 30 Rock
Charlie Sheen, Two And A Half Men
Consenus: Happy that up-and-comers like Jemaine Clement and Jim Parsons got well-derserved nods. And whatever you think of him, Alec Baldwin deserves every 30 Rock nomination he gets. Not so happy that Tony Shalhoub and Charlie Sheen got nominated yet again. Enough is enough. And, THREE AND A HALF MEN ISN'T FUNNY!
Who Was Missing: What about Bret (Flight of the Conchords)? Zachary Levi in Chuck is endearing. Plus, Lee Pace from Pushing Daisies should have had his swan's song...
Who Should Win: Steve Carell, The Office. We don't know just how high he can fly.
Outstanding Lead Actor In A Drama Series
Bryan Cranston, Breaking Bad
Michael C. Hall, Dexter
Hugh Laurie, House
Gabriel Byrne, In Treatment
Jon Hamm, Mad Men
Simon Baker, The Mentalist
Consensus: Pretty happy with the nominees. Not sure Breaking Bad and The Mentalist deserved so many nominations so early...
Who Was Missing: Kiefer Sutherland had a great season on 24. Patrick Dempsey played a tortured surgeon very well in the second half of Grey's Anatomy.
Who Should Win: Jon Hamm...always Jon Hamm...
Outstanding Lead Actress In A Comedy Series
Julia Louis-Dreyfus, The New Adventures Of Old Christine
Christina Applegate, Samantha Who?
Sarah Silverman, The Sarah Silverman Program
Tina Fey, 30 Rock
Toni Collette, United States Of Tara
Mary-Louise Parker, Weeds
Consensus: It's nice to see Christina Applegate receive a nomination even though Samantha Who? was canceled. Her character was so endearing. A little confused about one nomination: Sarah Silverman...really?
Who Was Missing: Marcia Cross had a stellar season on Desperate Housewives. And Anna Friel from Pushing Daisies was definitely missing.
Who Should Win: Tina Fey is a comic genius. Why don't more people watch this show (hint, hint...).
Outstanding Lead Actress In A Drama Series
Sally Field, Brothers & Sisters
Kyra Sedgwick, The Closer
Glenn Close, Damages
Mariska Hargitay, Law & Order: SVU
Elisabeth Moss, Mad Men
Holly Hunter, Saving Grace
Consensus: Same nominees every year. Some always boring (Sally Field), some not (Kyra Sedgwick). Elisabeth Moss was such a wonderful surprise.
Who Was Missing: Where was Anna Paquin's name (True Blood)? And word on the street is that Connie Britton (Friday Night Lights) was a big snub of the season.
Who Should Win: Kyra Sedgwick. Case closed.
Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Comedy Series
Kevin Dillon, Entourage
Neil Patrick Harris, How I Met Your Mother
Rainn Wilson, The Office
Tracy Morgan, 30 Rock
Jack McBrayer, 30 Rock
Jon Cryer, Two And A Half Men
Consensus: Jack McBrayer and Neil Patrick Harris stand above the rest. No two actors encompass their characters as well as these guys. Entourage had such a weak season, no one deserved a nominee. I'm just happy Jeremy Piven didn't get nominated (yet, Elisabeth Moss did. Maybe you shouldn't have back out of Speed-The-Plow, Mr. Piven. Karma's a ...). Now if we could just get rid of Jon Cryer...
Who Was Missing: John Krasinski (The Office) deserved his name amongst the supporters for the proposal scene alone...as did Kyle McLaughlin for his clepto role in Desperate Housewives.
Who Should Win: Got to give credit where credit is due. Neil Patrick Harris is Emmy...wait for it...worthy.
Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Drama Series
William Shatner, Boston Legal
Christian Clemenson, Boston Legal
Aaron Paul, Breaking Bad
William Hurt, Damages
Michael Emerson, Lost
John Slattery, Mad Men
Consensus: Not a big fan of Boston Legal but it holds a special place in my heart...so, no comment...
Who Was Missing: There are so many great supporting actors; more nominees should be accepted. Justin Chambers' performance in Grey's Anatomy was exceptional. And, two words: Josh Holloway (Lost). I mean, who didn't lose it when he was grasping for Juliet's hand in the finale? I know I did...
Who Should Win: Michael Emerson plays Ben Lyons so chillingly...
Outstanding Supporting Actress In A Comedy Series
Kristin Chenoweth, Pushing Daisies
Amy Poehler, Saturday Night Live
Kristen Wiig, Saturday Night Live
Jane Krakowski, 30 Rock
Vanessa Williams, Ugly Betty
Elizabeth Perkins, Weeds
Consensus: Love Saturday Night Live. Not sure if it deserved spots in this category. And even thought it is canceled (For shame ABC), I am happy that Kristin Chenoweth received a nomination for Pushing Daisies.
Who Was Missing: Kristen Schaal plays Mel ever so comically in Flight of the Conchords.
Who Should Win: Glenda the Good Witch. I mean, Kristin Chenoweth.
Outstanding Supporting Actress In A Drama Series
Rose Byrne, Damages
Sandra Oh, Grey's Anatomy
Chandra Wilson, Grey's Anatomy
Dianne Wiest, In Treatment
Hope Davis, In Treatment
Cherry Jones, 24
Consensus: I've never been a fan of In Treatment (boring!) but I'm jazzed to see two Grey's Anatomy noms. Cherry Jones was so silently great in 24, as was Rose Byrne in Damages.
Who Was Missing: January Jones should have been a shoe-in for Mad Men and Elizabeth Mitchell in Lost (For that final finale scene alone...) was completely robbed.
Who Should Win: In a perfect world it should be a tie: Chandra Wilson and Rose Byrne.
Outstanding Comedy Series
Entourage
Family Guy
Flight Of The Conchords
How I Met Your Mother
The Office
30 Rock
Weeds
Consensus: Entourage didn't even deserve to be in this category.
What Was Missing: Pushing Daisies and Chuck
Who Should Win: What I wish: How I Met Your Mother. What will win: 30 Rock.
Outstanding Drama Series
Big Love
Breaking Bad
Damages
Dexter
House
Lost
Mad Men
Consensus: Great nominations
What Was Missing: 24
Who Should Win: Lost. Lost. Lost.
Welcome!
Hello fellow entertainment enthusiasts (or novices). This blog is dedicated to all things found on both the big and small screen. This has always been a passion of mine and I look forward to sharing all things hip or nerdy. For my first post I chose nerdy...
Here's a sneak peek at the poster for the third season of Chuck. It was revealed at Comic-Con this weekend and Entertainment Weekly's Michael Ausiello shared it with fellow fans via ew.com. Ausiello played a HUGE part in both the lobbying and ensuring of Chuck's renewal and we should all be very grateful. For those who are Chuck-less, buy season one AND two on iTunes. Trust me, you won't regret it!
Lastly, what I hope to publish on this blog are items that don't make the front pages of magazines or have the big budgets, yet are worthy of words or a fun little discussion. I hope you all enjoy reading as I will do posting.
Here's a sneak peek at the poster for the third season of Chuck. It was revealed at Comic-Con this weekend and Entertainment Weekly's Michael Ausiello shared it with fellow fans via ew.com. Ausiello played a HUGE part in both the lobbying and ensuring of Chuck's renewal and we should all be very grateful. For those who are Chuck-less, buy season one AND two on iTunes. Trust me, you won't regret it!
Lastly, what I hope to publish on this blog are items that don't make the front pages of magazines or have the big budgets, yet are worthy of words or a fun little discussion. I hope you all enjoy reading as I will do posting.
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