Jim Henson/Muppets

I had my second interview Tuesday at Jim Henson. Im so excited and really hoping something happens. (Fingers crossed!) I interviewed with my potential boss, then with Human Resources and then finally, I'll be interviewing with Jim Henson's daughter Lisa Henson.

So, when I was interviewing, we talked about the company and how it has changed over the years. And one of the things that I was not aware of (there wasnt much... I did some research before each interview - something I strongly suggest doing before any interview) was that the Muppets (Kermit & co.) were sold to Disney. Now, Henson does creatures for many movies, but does not actually seem to have a mascot. (Kermit stands outside the studio, but isnt owned by them anymore)

The studio itself is really amazing. It was build by Charlie Chaplin and looks like a small village in the woods. Its pretty cool, right off La Brea and Sunset.

Anyways, even though the Muppets aren't Jim Henson anymore, I wanted to post this fun video that is (according to Yahoo!) taking the internet by storm.

Dark Knight dethroned by Twilight

Well, the title really says it all. "Twilight: New Moon" was released this week, and already brought in a ridiculous 140.7 million. MILLION! WTF!? Like... seriously? Its not even getting good reviews!

Regardless, Dark Knight brought in 67 million opening day. Twilight went forward and knocked it down with its opening of 72.7 million and showed in 342 fewer theaters! Thats insane!

So, if the film is as poor as it is being reviewed, what does this mean? Uh... I dont know really... Chalk it up to saying that they sure marketed it well. The main actors may-or may not- be dating. Taylor Lautner and all his shirt taking off stuff. And not to mention, a well done trailer/posters/tv spots/the fact that the actors are on practically ever magazine cover at the moment, ect. ect.

So, Im probably going to see it. But not until I can go into the theater without someone behind me talking about their math homework and how division is hard then switching to ask her (or his) friend if she is team Edward or team... other guy. After that, I'll go...

Ugh... I went to go find pictures for this post... and in the comment below one of Taylor Lautner, I read this: "OMFG hes beyond hot hes better then channing tatum hot!!!" Wow... That kind of hurts my head...

Reality Teleivision

I dont like reality television. Which can not be misinterpreted for not respecting it. There is plenty to appreciate about reality tv and how it has come to dominate what is being shown on television today.

For the past week, I have been working on the show "Ruby". It is about a woman who is dangerously overweight and her journey to become a healthy size again. Let me just say, I had a blast. They people on the show were just awesome. It was so organized and flowed so much more nicely than anything I have working on before. The cast and crew all seemed to get along and enjoy working together, something I also havent experienced much of.

Whatever it may be, reality television is a force. And the show "Ruby" really sends a strong message that I enjoyed being a part of. So one of these days, check it out.

Clash of the Titans

I dont like this preview. It looks rushed. Compare it to "Avatar", that came out last week, and you will find... that there is no comparison. This just looks like jumbled action sequences that do not flow in the least. But, the story is one to look forward to... Hope it isnt all messed up in the end.

Where Have I Been?

I'll tell you where. But let me preface...

In LA, unemployment rates are higher than almost every part of the US. This is really the first recession that has affected the entertainment industry. Reason being? Who really knows. But my guess is that it has to do with the threat of the SAG going on strike. A few years ago, the writers went on strike, which shut down production of nearly everything for a while. People lost millions of dollars and remembering this no doubt terrifies studio executives.

So what would you do if you camera talents were threatening to strike at any minute? You would, just as the execs have, green lit far fewer projects. This means that many of the actors who are not "A or B list" will have to take less desirable roles, further pushing the unknown people down the post. Where do they go? Restaurants!

Anyways, so the actors and people who wish to work behind the camera, have all gone to work at restaurants and bars. THAT, ladies and gentlemen, is where I have been working. And restaurant work... is just awful.

So, last week... things finally began to look up! I am up for an assistant position at Jim Henson Studio (you know... Kermit the Frog), have someone helping me get an interview at William Morris (the talent agency), and finally... got a PA job for one week (starting next monday). So, since the restaurant has been so slow... this PA job will help me a lot. But Im really hoping for something to happen at Henson or WME. Fingers are very tightly crossed.

New Trailers!

I saw two of these today actually, and really am excited about them both - especially "Avatar" - Though I have to say, the use of Steve Jabionsky's "My Name Is Lincoln" track from the movie "The Island" (the first music that plays) seems.... a little out of place.

And, while this film looks like it has a lot of potential, Im not as excited as I was about "Kung Fu Panda" or "Shreck".

New Reviews!

So, Ive been gone for a while.... and have seen a quite a few movies since my last post. So, instead of my typical review, Im going to do a few condensed reviews in one post.

Transformers 2: Revenge of the Fallen - The graphics and action are spectacular. The story, new characters, humor and everything else were just wretched. Dont see this movie, unless you are a die hard fan. Or you want to watch something that involves no thinking (minus the often question like "WTF" or "Does that make sense?")

Drag Me To Hell - Excellent scary film. Very eerie, not campy (except perhaps the ending), and not gory - an aspect I appreciate of scary films.

Where the Wild Things Are - Much better than expected. Though there is little story, the beautiful cinematography kept my interest. It is not a children's movie, but something that is meant for those who like a deep movie where you have a lot to think about afterwards.

An Education - One of the better films I have seen lately. Great story, brilliant acting, and

nicely shot.

Snow White - the review

Talk about it being time for an update! Wow, where did I go?!

Anyways, lets start with a quick blurb about the "Snow White" blu-ray. So, I bought myself a copy and finally had a chance to watch it. Its peculiar how time can change something. I remember "Snow White" to be short in length, funny, and somewhat scary. But, that was 20 years ago. Now, it is a classic. Does this mean that it is still as enjoyable as it was when I was little? No. But it came out in a very different time. Films were more dramatic, acting was far less realistic with a more theatrical feel. Think Betty Davis in "Marked Woman".

Anyways, Miss White spends half the movie screaming about nothing and running while holding the front of her dress up. Not to mention, girl falls in love with a homosexual prince in less than 60 seconds (talk about settling). I mean, this movie really doesn't do much for women except teach them to rely on men, be nice to little people, dont hate the gays - fall in love with them (especially if youre desperate and dont want to have to work), and be wary of fruits and vegetables. But again, that was the time. And there is plenty to appreciate about this movie.

Lets start with my favorite aspect, the fact that this was a hand drawn cartoon... the first feature lenght animated film... EVER. Consider this, if the audience didnt like this film, few of my generation would know the name Disney. No joke. If Snow White did terribly and the audience couldn't buy the idea of feature length animation, Disney would have no money left to try a second attempt. And none of the films we know today would have been made.

Also, the movie is very beautiful. Spectacular really. It isnt anywhere near as advanced as "Sleeping Beauty" (which looks like a brand new film on blu ray) but that also came out 22 years later. I just have to point out that some of the shots and sequences that are just amaizing. The few that stand out, are the queen (doing basically anything - but especially her transformation), Snow White running through the woods, the cleaning of the house, and the dance between the dwarfs and SW. Really beautifully done.

If you have a love for old animation, or have children, check this out. It may not be what you remember, but it certainly will never be forgotten.

This is a picture Disney put out with Rachel Weisz. Just thought it was worth posting.