The story behind AMBROSE (PART 5)!
Showing posts with label television. Show all posts
Showing posts with label television. Show all posts
When is a bat, not a bat? When it's Lyle Waggoner!
WOW! Lyle Waggoner looks really good as Batman and probably would have been the better choice. The producers went with Adam West because he was so awkward and bizarre (even in real life) and they wanted the series to be ultra-campy. Lyle definitely made it more serious. Peter Deyell makes for a terrible Robin. Check out the screen test footage below.
Lyle Waggoner & Peter Deyell test for Batman TV series
BAT-BONUS: The footage has been re-cut to include Burt Ward's voice and image. Check it out HERE. It's pretty good!
Lyle Waggoner & Peter Deyell test for Batman TV series
BAT-BONUS: The footage has been re-cut to include Burt Ward's voice and image. Check it out HERE. It's pretty good!
Afghan Star
Directed by Havana Marking
Zeitgeist Films
One of my favorite bands, The Avett Brothers, have a lyric in one of their songs claiming, “May you never be embarrassed to sing.” Since viewing Havana Marking’s documentary, Afghan Star, this lyric has been on repeat in my brain, reminding me, as Afghan Star aptly illustrates, if embarrassment is all that we have to risk, then we are risking very little. In her feature length directorial debut, Marking journeys into recently independent Afghanistan to explore the newly created television program Afghan Star. Following four contestants as they compete for the $5,000 prize, Marking exposes the inspiring and passionate citizens of a country shrouded by war, violence, and tyranny.
The film opens with a close-up of two little boys. One, whose face and eyes appear to have been violently damaged, sings sweetly into the camera and when he finishes the other states simply “If there was no singing the world would be silent.” From this point on Afghan Star weaves a complicated narrative that instigates dialogue about the power of having a voice, and the ideologies that determine what voices are heard and by who.
In 1996, the Taliban rule in Afghanistan created a ban on music, dancing, and singing. The ban was lifted in 2004, but as history has taught us all too well, a change in politics doesn’t always result in changing people. Most of those interviewed in the film, from the show’s producers to townspeople, equate singing with freedom; however, the concept of freedom is abstract and intangible. It is defined within the boundaries of Afghan politics and Islamic religion, leaving little room for the inclusion of Western liberties and autonomous behavior.
This is most evident in the subtle, yet disturbing, fulfillment of traditional gender roles. Both of the male contestants whom Marking chooses to focus on are met with great hope and respect by their communities. But when interviewing the families and supporters of the female contestants the responses are overwhelmingly concerned and fearful, or rife with ulterior motives. As the male contestants campaign openly in public and receive adoration from fans, the women are hidden by their burqas, unable to be recognized.
The contradiction is striking, yet the women are complicit and seemingly unaware of their alienation. However, the most drastic display of sexism occurs when Setara, one of the two female finalists and by far the most dynamic of all the contestants, is eliminated. While performing her final song, Setara “dances” on stage while also allowing her head scarf to fall revealing her hair. The result is scorn from her fellow competitors, eviction from her apartment and death threats so fierce and overwhelming, she fears returning to her hometown.
For those of us in the West, Afghan Star presents a thoughtful exploration of the life we so often take for granted: freedom of speech, the privilege of choice, and the unnecessary luxury of television and its star-making programs. But, above all, this film is a riveting reminder of the power, freedom and endless possibilities we hold in our voice and that no matter how we may use it, we must never be embarrassed to sing.
Review by Alicia Sowisdral
Zeitgeist Films
One of my favorite bands, The Avett Brothers, have a lyric in one of their songs claiming, “May you never be embarrassed to sing.” Since viewing Havana Marking’s documentary, Afghan Star, this lyric has been on repeat in my brain, reminding me, as Afghan Star aptly illustrates, if embarrassment is all that we have to risk, then we are risking very little. In her feature length directorial debut, Marking journeys into recently independent Afghanistan to explore the newly created television program Afghan Star. Following four contestants as they compete for the $5,000 prize, Marking exposes the inspiring and passionate citizens of a country shrouded by war, violence, and tyranny.
The film opens with a close-up of two little boys. One, whose face and eyes appear to have been violently damaged, sings sweetly into the camera and when he finishes the other states simply “If there was no singing the world would be silent.” From this point on Afghan Star weaves a complicated narrative that instigates dialogue about the power of having a voice, and the ideologies that determine what voices are heard and by who.
In 1996, the Taliban rule in Afghanistan created a ban on music, dancing, and singing. The ban was lifted in 2004, but as history has taught us all too well, a change in politics doesn’t always result in changing people. Most of those interviewed in the film, from the show’s producers to townspeople, equate singing with freedom; however, the concept of freedom is abstract and intangible. It is defined within the boundaries of Afghan politics and Islamic religion, leaving little room for the inclusion of Western liberties and autonomous behavior.
This is most evident in the subtle, yet disturbing, fulfillment of traditional gender roles. Both of the male contestants whom Marking chooses to focus on are met with great hope and respect by their communities. But when interviewing the families and supporters of the female contestants the responses are overwhelmingly concerned and fearful, or rife with ulterior motives. As the male contestants campaign openly in public and receive adoration from fans, the women are hidden by their burqas, unable to be recognized.
The contradiction is striking, yet the women are complicit and seemingly unaware of their alienation. However, the most drastic display of sexism occurs when Setara, one of the two female finalists and by far the most dynamic of all the contestants, is eliminated. While performing her final song, Setara “dances” on stage while also allowing her head scarf to fall revealing her hair. The result is scorn from her fellow competitors, eviction from her apartment and death threats so fierce and overwhelming, she fears returning to her hometown.
For those of us in the West, Afghan Star presents a thoughtful exploration of the life we so often take for granted: freedom of speech, the privilege of choice, and the unnecessary luxury of television and its star-making programs. But, above all, this film is a riveting reminder of the power, freedom and endless possibilities we hold in our voice and that no matter how we may use it, we must never be embarrassed to sing.
Review by Alicia Sowisdral
Gilmore Girls Giveaway Contest
For the first time ever, Gilmore Girls: The Complete Series is available for download (with a two-week exclusive on iTunes), and Seasons 3-7 are even available in HD.This month Feminist Review is giving one of our readers a chance to win a unique keepsake from the groundbreaking show, courtesy of Warner Bros: a coffee mug from Luke's and the Dragon Fly Inn. (Fans can also purchase the mugs from the WB shop.)
Here's how it works:
Leave a comment here by April 25th telling us who your favorite Gilmore Girls character is and why. Make sure you include your name and a valid email address where we can contact you if you are a winner. This giveaway is open to all of our readers worldwide.
Extra entries can be gained by:
1) Tweeting or blogging this giveaway. (Leave the link to your tweet or post in the comment.)
2) Sign up to follow Feminist Review on Twitter.
3) Follow Feminist Review on Facebook's Networked Blogs
4) Subscribe to the blog feed of Feminist Review
5) Add us to your blog roll
The winner will be announced May 1st.
Apocalypse Man
Apocalypse Man - Rudy Reyes demonstrates surprising survival techniques, including making fire from steel wool, finding safe shelter, and creating shortwave radio transmissions.
Apocalypse Man Schedule:
Thu 1/7 1:01-2:01am HISTORY
Fri 1/8 11:00-12:01am HISTORY
Sat 1/9 3:01-4:02am HISTORY
Sat 1/9 12:00-1:00pm HISTORY
All the latest SMACK at CelebritySmackBlog.com!
Apocalypse Man Schedule:
Thu 1/7 1:01-2:01am HISTORY
Fri 1/8 11:00-12:01am HISTORY
Sat 1/9 3:01-4:02am HISTORY
Sat 1/9 12:00-1:00pm HISTORY
Miss USA Falls Onstage During 2007 Miss Universe Pageant
Miss USA Rachel Smith's strut down the catwalk to model her evening gown during the Miss Universe pageant didn't quite go as planned.
Smith slipped and fell on her rear during Monday night's Miss Universe pageant in Mexico City.
She was also seemingly booed during her interview by Hispanic audience members who were chanting "Mexico! Mexico!" until she spoke in Spanish, the Associated Press reports.
Smith's responsed with "Buenas noches Mexico. Muchas gracias!" , which earned her applause.
She finished fourth runner-up. Riyo Mori was named Miss Universe 2007.
Pageant co-owner Donald Trump said of Smith's ordeal, "Rachel has been a great Miss USA, and she's really a nice person, and I don't think they were booing Rachel, perhaps they were booing some policies of the United States, to be honest with you."
Source
Smith slipped and fell on her rear during Monday night's Miss Universe pageant in Mexico City.
She was also seemingly booed during her interview by Hispanic audience members who were chanting "Mexico! Mexico!" until she spoke in Spanish, the Associated Press reports.
Smith's responsed with "Buenas noches Mexico. Muchas gracias!" , which earned her applause.
She finished fourth runner-up. Riyo Mori was named Miss Universe 2007.
Pageant co-owner Donald Trump said of Smith's ordeal, "Rachel has been a great Miss USA, and she's really a nice person, and I don't think they were booing Rachel, perhaps they were booing some policies of the United States, to be honest with you."
Source
Chris Robinson and Phil Stacey Speak About Their Time on American Idol
Chris Robinson and Phil Stacey were both eliminated this week on American Idol, the first double elimination ever in the show's history.
Entertainment Tonight spoke with the two Idol finalists and asked them about their relationships, their futures and who they think will walk away as this years American Idol.
ET: Was there a specific performance where the reaction from the judges surprised you?
PHIL: My big surprise came [during] country week. I am more in my comfort zone in country music, but I was so used to getting the critical feedback that when Randy was, "Dude, you were good this week," I was, "Really? Sweet!" That was the one time that my reaction was really surprised.
CHRIS: I remember back in the earlier rounds, I didn't think "Geek in the Pink" would go over too well with the judges. I went out there skeptical. I thought, "Would they like something different?" I went out there and did it. They seemed to really love it. I am glad I did that now.
ET: We know Phil is married, but Chris, are you dating anyone? We heard you might be seeing Lauren Conrad?
CHRIS: I just got out of a three-and-a-half year relationship back home. That's about it. All the other stuff is just rumors. Those people are just my friends and acquaintances. I am pretty much single right now, but still respecting the fact that I got out of a relationship with my girlfriend.
ET: Phil, your commitment to the Navy goes through October 2008. Do you know for sure if you will be able to go on the "American Idol" tour?
PHIL: My primary responsibility is to the United States Navy. The possibility exists that they will need me for a mission. If that is the case, I am committed to following through with my commitment to the Navy. So far, they have been 100 percent flexible with me with "American Idol." They have been gems. They are a huge support base for me. I give the Navy all the props in the world for letting me do what I have done this far.
ET: What song do you want to sing on the tour?
CHRIS: I haven't thought that far ahead. I have a lot of songs in the database. I've just got to figure out which one will best suit the style of music I will be coming out with on my album.
PHIL: I think if I get the opportunity to do the tour, I would really like to do something -- the "Idol Gives Back" thing really changed my life. I think one thing I want to do is be a positive influence on people, and a role model of sorts. I think as a Navy guy, I would like to go out and do something patriotic like "God Bless the U.S.A.", something to represent the Navy and be a unifying factor for us as Americans.
ET: Chris, how was it that you and Blake became so close?
CHRIS: It started in Hollywood. It was just one of those things where we clicked. We had a lot in common: music taste and music style, personality traits, and loyalty and friendship. It was just one of those things where we bonded.
ET: Chris, you had such unique looks on this show -- where did you get your clothes? Were they your own, or did you go shopping?
CHRIS: We would go shopping. I don't remember the names [of the stores]. I remember seeing things and liking it. Sometimes the outfits would go together and sometimes they wouldn't, but it was on purpose that I did that. When I shopped, I tried to fit my style and the theme of the week.
ET: Who do you see as the current frontrunner to become the next "American Idol"?
PHIL: I think the four people who are left have individual strengths that set them apart. Blake is most likely the most original contestant ever on "American Idol." He blew it out this week with Bon Jovi. Melinda is possibly the greatest singer I have ever heard on the show. Lakisha sings with so much passion, it is hard not to get chills. Jordin has a range that lasts for days. Her upper notes have so much power behind them. I think it is anybody's ballgame at this point.
CHRIS: I feel the same exact way.
Source
Entertainment Tonight spoke with the two Idol finalists and asked them about their relationships, their futures and who they think will walk away as this years American Idol.
ET: Was there a specific performance where the reaction from the judges surprised you?
PHIL: My big surprise came [during] country week. I am more in my comfort zone in country music, but I was so used to getting the critical feedback that when Randy was, "Dude, you were good this week," I was, "Really? Sweet!" That was the one time that my reaction was really surprised.CHRIS: I remember back in the earlier rounds, I didn't think "Geek in the Pink" would go over too well with the judges. I went out there skeptical. I thought, "Would they like something different?" I went out there and did it. They seemed to really love it. I am glad I did that now.
ET: We know Phil is married, but Chris, are you dating anyone? We heard you might be seeing Lauren Conrad?
CHRIS: I just got out of a three-and-a-half year relationship back home. That's about it. All the other stuff is just rumors. Those people are just my friends and acquaintances. I am pretty much single right now, but still respecting the fact that I got out of a relationship with my girlfriend.
ET: Phil, your commitment to the Navy goes through October 2008. Do you know for sure if you will be able to go on the "American Idol" tour?
PHIL: My primary responsibility is to the United States Navy. The possibility exists that they will need me for a mission. If that is the case, I am committed to following through with my commitment to the Navy. So far, they have been 100 percent flexible with me with "American Idol." They have been gems. They are a huge support base for me. I give the Navy all the props in the world for letting me do what I have done this far.
ET: What song do you want to sing on the tour?
CHRIS: I haven't thought that far ahead. I have a lot of songs in the database. I've just got to figure out which one will best suit the style of music I will be coming out with on my album.
PHIL: I think if I get the opportunity to do the tour, I would really like to do something -- the "Idol Gives Back" thing really changed my life. I think one thing I want to do is be a positive influence on people, and a role model of sorts. I think as a Navy guy, I would like to go out and do something patriotic like "God Bless the U.S.A.", something to represent the Navy and be a unifying factor for us as Americans.
ET: Chris, how was it that you and Blake became so close?
CHRIS: It started in Hollywood. It was just one of those things where we clicked. We had a lot in common: music taste and music style, personality traits, and loyalty and friendship. It was just one of those things where we bonded.ET: Chris, you had such unique looks on this show -- where did you get your clothes? Were they your own, or did you go shopping?
CHRIS: We would go shopping. I don't remember the names [of the stores]. I remember seeing things and liking it. Sometimes the outfits would go together and sometimes they wouldn't, but it was on purpose that I did that. When I shopped, I tried to fit my style and the theme of the week.
ET: Who do you see as the current frontrunner to become the next "American Idol"?
PHIL: I think the four people who are left have individual strengths that set them apart. Blake is most likely the most original contestant ever on "American Idol." He blew it out this week with Bon Jovi. Melinda is possibly the greatest singer I have ever heard on the show. Lakisha sings with so much passion, it is hard not to get chills. Jordin has a range that lasts for days. Her upper notes have so much power behind them. I think it is anybody's ballgame at this point.
CHRIS: I feel the same exact way.
Source
Phil Stacey and Chris Richardson Voted Off 'Idol'
American Idol made up for the lack of eliminations last week.
This week the show eliminated two people. Two of the three men left were voted off the show last night. Phil Stacey, the bald US Navy sailor and Chris Richardson, who is reminiscent of Justin Timberlake.
The only male left in the competition is Seattle native, Blake Lewis.
Four 'Idols' remain. Blake Lewis, LaKisha Jones, Melinda Doolittle and Jordin Sparks.
The "Idol" finale airs live May 23.
____________
Ever dreamed of winning an MTV Movie Award? Here is your chance with Yahoo! Movies and MTV! Create your own movie spoof, shoot it, and submit it online by May 21st. The winner will be awarded LIVE on the show airing June 3rd at 9 PM! Click here for details!
This week the show eliminated two people. Two of the three men left were voted off the show last night. Phil Stacey, the bald US Navy sailor and Chris Richardson, who is reminiscent of Justin Timberlake.The only male left in the competition is Seattle native, Blake Lewis.
Four 'Idols' remain. Blake Lewis, LaKisha Jones, Melinda Doolittle and Jordin Sparks.The "Idol" finale airs live May 23.
____________
Ever dreamed of winning an MTV Movie Award? Here is your chance with Yahoo! Movies and MTV! Create your own movie spoof, shoot it, and submit it online by May 21st. The winner will be awarded LIVE on the show airing June 3rd at 9 PM! Click here for details!
American Idol's Constantine Maroulis on 'The Bold and the Beautiful'
Constantine Maroulis will join the cast of The Bold And The Beautiful beginning Tuesday, May 15 on CBS.
Maroulis will play music producer Constantine Parros, (quite a stretch) who becomes embroiled in the career and life of heiress Phoebe Forrester (Mackenzie Mauzy).He will perform a number of songs from his upcoming solo debut album over the next several months on the show.
Maroulis' solo debut is due out summer 2007.
Source
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