I had a chance to stop by ABC Studios earlier this week to produce a video feature with “Live with Regis and Kelly” as the show is in the middle of airing “On Broadway Week.” Regis Philbin and Kelly Ripa have been highlighting shows including “Mary Poppins,” “Billy Elliot,” “West Side Story,” “Shrek The Musical” and “Rock of Ages.”
Besides the laughs Regis gets as he puts himself into character for a handful of these shows, such as his turn in full Shrek makeup or as an aging rocker straight out of the 1980s, it was quite fun shooting the video for BroadwayWorld.com. Regis and Kelly have a certain chemistry that comes off well both on and off camera.
So, check out the video I produced and edited with my BroadwayWorld.com cohort Eddie Varley hosting.
There might just be another flaw in “American Idol’s” ivory tower of reality competition schlock. Looks like iTunes accidentally leaked the number of downloads each performer earned. Could the finale consist of Adam Lambert and Kris Allen? One of the two does not belong.
Five contestants remain, yet somehow the show found a way to run long, again. Nice one producers. It’s not like you haven’t had a few years to work the kinks out. The kiddies were given a chance to send up the Rat Pack era, allowing Kris an opportunity to wow viewers with his astute power of observation. He so kindly pointed out that all of those Frank Sinatra types are dead. Someone should let Tony Bennett know its time to buy that burial plot.
Actor Jaime Foxx showed up this week to mentor the gang. It was gangster meets teenie bopper on “Idol.” Epic stuff. At least the producers didn’t call on the king of sap, Michael Buble. I say, let Canada have him.
All snark aside for a moment, the evening started off smooth with a subtle performance of “The Way You Look Tonight” by Kris Allen. Dapper in a suit and tie, giving Ryan Seacrest a run for his money, Kris got Paula Abdul beaming. This kid is no Bobby Darin, but his childlike charm and underage girl appeal will lead to a steady career of Top 40 background noise.
The final vixen on “Idol,” now 17-year-old Allison Iraheta, cleaned up well. Her prematurely aged voice hit every note of “Someone to Watch Over Me” with A-list charm. Someone that young shouldn’t be able to connect with a melancholy song so well. Underdog or not, I love me some Allison in this competition.
Then there’s Matt Giraud. Like he needed an excuse to wear that hipster fedora. A night of “Idol” wouldn’t be complete without a cliche-ridden bit from its resident poser. “My Funny Valentine” was on the menu, and Matt ate it up with all of his usual uninspired charm. Randy Jackson was generous with a six out of ten vote. Time for this kid to pick up a scotch and drink away his sorrows, or at least drown out the ones I have after sitting through another week of his singing.
Jaime Foxx got up close and personal with Danny Gokey in hopes of getting the singer geared up for a stellar take on “Come Rain or Come Shine.” Unlike his fellow pop gladiators, Danny’s voice has always been suited for the Sinatra genre. And he has Michael McDonald to thank for laying the groundwork. I’ve said it nearly every week. Danny and Adam Lambert are destined for a finale fight to the death.
Adam had the grand entrance he deserved Tuesday, descending the ruby red staircase while belting out “Feeling Good.” In a nice screw you style, he turned the typical standards sound on its head and delivered a crowd-winning performance. The judges call it too Broadway, but I call it recording gold. There’s no more cabaret acts in his future. It’s time for the big leagues.
This season of “American Idol” has been full of gimmicks, and last week showcased the worst one of all. The judges’ choice. Simon Cowell decided to save Matt Giraud, and I single out Simon because his is the only opinion of any value. Sorry Paula Abdul. Then there was the addition of another judge, basically a preemptive move to replace Paula. Producers have been gambling with format changes, none of which have yet to payoff.
So, when Ryan Seacrest announced that this week would be used to showcase disco songs, all signs pointed to yet another fail on behalf of “Idol’s” creatives. However, not withstanding a few typical duds, the 70s melodies were kind to most of the remaining contestants. What I wouldn’t have paid to see Ryan sporting a white suit ala John Travolta.
Each week gets a little darker for Lil Rounds as she borders on high-class karaoke artist. And her foray into disco with “I’m Every Woman” was no exception, despite the number getting Paula on her feet. That woman is bound to go up and down for just about anyone.
Kris Allen pulled out his guitar to sing Ryan Seacrest’s anthem, “She Works Hard For Her Money.” Kudos to the kid for making the song his own, but must he turn every week into a Jason Mraz homage? To his credit, he does it with ease. But the last thing iTunes needs is another vanilla offering.
These last few shows have been kind to Danny Gokey. I’ve finally warmed to his rasp, and with Earth, Wind & Fire’s “September,” he should easily earn a place in next week’s competition. Yet, Simon’s note on the clumsy stage presence was spot on. That’s one of the many factors that separates Danny from “Idol’s” already-ordained winner, Adam Lambert.
It’s officially time for every other contestant to throw in the towel, because nothing can stop Adam at this point. “If I Can’t Have You” brought Paula to tears, although that’s not a challenge, but it got Simon to call the performance “immaculate.” Abdul is drooling as is the music industry.
Sparkly leather. Fire red hair. Allison Iraheta’s getup definitely lived up to her song choice this week, “Hot Stuff.” The resident baby rocker, Allison always finds a way to entertain. And a riff at the end sent her over the top.
Holy jeebus, Matt was resurrected from the dead only to deliver another funky white boy performance. This go around it was with the song “Stayin’ Alive.” Can he sing? Yes. Did Matt learn from his near ouster last week? No. It was more of the same and with two singers going home, he deserves the axe one more time.
Ending the night was Anoop Desai, a performer I am so done with. Adequate is the best way to describe him. And, to be honest, until Ryan announced Anoop, I forgot he was still in the competition. Lil Rounds, Anoop and Matt should be battling it out in the bottom three tonight.
It’s time to catch up with a handful of new prime-time TV offerings on this week’s webisode of Sofa Snark, my weekly video blog wrapping up the best and worst shows on the air. Much of the networks’ schedules are up in the air until next month’s upfronts here in New York. Industry buzz says Fox has all but officially axed “Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles” while NBC’s “Chuck” remains in limbo. Consider ABC’s “Cupid” a goner and, with any luck, “The Unusuals” as well.
Until the TV gods weigh in, let’s enjoy this week’s Sofa Snark. “Lost” rips off Star Wars, Tori Spelling returns to “90210,” “In Treatment” is back on HBO and the producers of “ER” bring you “Southland.” Other shows covered this week include “Tracey Ullman’s State of the Union,” “The Tudors,” “Heroes,” “The Unusuals” and “Better Off Ted.”
Enjoy Sofa Snark and click over to my YouTube channel to rate this video.
If you’re having trouble viewing this video, watch it on YouTube.
It took little more than five minutes for me to hear the gay community squealing with outrage after Miss California pulled a fail whale during the Miss USA broadcast. Carrie Prejean, one of the 51 contestants battling for the tiara, told viewers that she was opposed to gay marriage.
Of course, everyone is allowed their opinion, no matter how backwoods it might be. But, when you are competing for a position of influence in this country, hate must not be tolerated. And thank goodness for Perez Hilton, the gossip queen of all media, as he was the one to ask 21-year-old Prejean the question.
“Vermont recently became the fourth state to legalize same-sex marriage,” said Hilton before asking Prejean, “do you think every state should follow suit? Why or why not?”
If Prejean would have at least articulated herself properly, she might have escaped the major backlash that is certainly headed her way. Instead, she said, “We live in a land where you can choose same-sex marriage or opposite marriage.” Opposite marriage? I thought she was from California, not some slack-jaw village. She went on to say, “I think that I believe that a marriage should be between a man and a woman.”
On a positive note, the powers behind the Miss USA contest didn’t award this ninny the crown, rather Miss North Carolina, Kristen Dalton, went home the winner. Although, Prejean sadly took second place.
I’m not one for pageant watching, as I had no clue this shindig was even going on, and after hearing what kind of antics happen at these events, I’m certain to continue my blackout.
Hilton, and many other prominent members of the media, must keep this a hot topic issue. As a native Southern Californian, I hope to one day shed my sense of shame following the Proposition 8 disaster. The Prejeans of the world certainly aren’t helping.
Watch out Ryan Seacrest, the king of auteur films is gunning for your job. Quentin Tarantino guested as the mentor this week for “American Idol’s” top seven. Talented director, yes. But Tarantino is less qualified than Paula Abdul to be dolling out advice to wannabe singers. Consider it stunt casting in order to boost the credibility of a week based on songs from Hollywood films.
Adding to the misguided nature of Tuesday’s show, half the judges were forced to shut their mouths come critique time. A move that basically defeated the entire purpose of “American Idol.” Without Simon Cowell’s barbs, there was no reason to pay much attention to anything happening on the screen.
Backed by an orchestra, Allison Iraheta sang her way through Aerosmith’s “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing.” Her voice is complimentary to Steven Tyler’s signature sound, and the spunky teen never fails to kick it up a notch as the show progresses. Certainly one of the rock group’s sappiest songs, but for the masses, it surely guaranteed Alison another week on “Idol.”
Quentin tried coaxing Anoop Desai to get guttural with Bryan Adams’ cheese-filled tune, “(Everything I Do) I Do It For You.” Of course, like any good amateur, he avoided the advice. Anoop might have been light on the ears, but he kept the Top 40 snorefest sluggishly moving along.
Just when things started dragging, “Idol’s” savior stepped in to rock the house. Adam Lambert slipped on his leather jacket and spiked his hair to get funky with “Born to be Wild.” He wailed, belted and kicked some “Idol” ass. Let’s be honest. There’s no competition this season. And things get quite amusing when Simon tries bringing the pop star down to earth every now and then.
Anyone that says they love a Bryan Adams song loses major music credibility, so when Matt Giraud continued the Adams marathon with “Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman?” somewhere a music critic lost his wings. Keeping with the evening’s theme of mediocrity, Matt floated along without upping the ante.
Danny Gokey ditched the glasses and added a harp to his performance of Lionel Richie’s “Endless Love.” Oy, a harp. But, of all the easy listening offerings Tuesday, Danny’s touching rendition stood out from the white noise. No risks taken, but a worthy performance nonetheless.
“Falling Slowly” from the film “Once” was the best song choice Tuesday night, and Kris Allen was the lucky contestant to snag it. There is nothing big or spectacular about the melody, yet it captures everything that’s right about a Hollywood love story. Kris was straightforward with his take, and that should count for something this one time, seeing as many of his fellow contestants bored viewers to death.
Lil Rounds went by way of church choir while tackling “The Rose.” She missed an opportunity to take it full gospel, suffering the fate of Tepid Tuesday.
This week’s show, save for Adam’s performance, highlighted all that is wrong with “American Idol.” Simon can’t be blamed for thinking about ditching the show. It was a silver screen theme night, yet nearly every song was a bore. Hollywood is all about lavishness. With an endless library of classic musicals, it’s amazing that not one golden age melody found its way out of the vault Tuesday.
New York’s Film Forum recently held a festival of Great Depression era films highlighting Hollywood’s foray into entertainment during the 1930s. Offerings were varied, ranging from Spencer Tracy’s film “Man’s Castle” to Walt Disney’s “The Three Little Pigs.” Not having time to see every screening, I made it a point to catch “My Man Godfrey,” as the 1936 movie is a personal favorite. Carole Lombard and William Powell are magnificent in the madcap comedy.
As I sat in the Houston Street theater, I started thinking about films that might speak to my fellow journalists, many getting slammed by our current economic downturn. The Chicago Tribune announced Monday it will cut 20% of its workforce while the Rocky Mountain News has already shuttered along with a handful of other publications.
Enter Hollywood. Movies, if done right, can be great inspirational tools, or at least a form of escapism in a time of despair. So I’ve come up with a list of five films all journalists should re-visit, as no self-respecting reporter should be ignorant of these classics. Read up and then add them to your Netflix queue.
1. Reds
Warren Beatty’s epic telling of journalist John Reed’s struggle to report on the Russian Revolution is not only riveting for the more than three-hour runtime, but it’s a real-life account of an American hated by his country for sympathizing with Communism. While I can’t see eye-to-eye with Reed when it comes to the Communist Party, for fear of getting put on a list, I can understand his frustration with America when his anti-war stance in 1917 resulted in a lack of employment. As newspapers and media outlets crumble under the pressure of this current economy, journalists should revisit “Reds” and witness the effects a non-existant free press can have on a newsman. Plus, the recent Blu-Ray release is full of great extras.
2. Gonzo: The Life and Work of Dr. Hunter S. Thompson
“Gonzo: The Life and Work of Dr. Hunter S. Thompson” is a fascinating look into the life of perhaps the wildest journalist to ever roam the planet. This is a documentary that digs deep into Hunter S. Thompson’s eccentric lifestyle, chronicling his rise and ultimate fall as the original gonzo reporter. Directed by Alex Gibney and narrated by Johnny Depp, the film touches on many aspects of Thompson’s life, ending with his suicide in 2005. This might not be the most inspiring film for a down-on-his luck reporter, but there is no denying that Thompson’s life was legendary. “Hell’s Angels.” “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas.” “Fear and Loathing on the Campaign Trail, 1972.” Three top-notch mostly reported books by the often drugged-out-of-his-mind character. With Vanity Fair editor-in-chief Graydon Carter producing, “Gonzo” is a must see.
3. Good Night, and Good Luck
As MSNBC host Keith Olbermann ends his nightly news show with Edward R. Murrow’s famous sign-off, it is worth remembering the original man’s story. George Clooney directed and co-wrote the 2005 film “Good Night, and Good Luck,” highlighting Murrow’s attack on Senator Joseph McCarthy following the red baiting going on in Washington in the 1950s. Despite the sluggish narrative, David Strathairn’s take on Murrow is spot on. Of all the films on the list, this is the inspirational pick. Boldly shot in black and white and full of smokey newsrooms, “Good Night, and Good Luck” reminds of a forgotten news era. A time when reporters freely smoked on camera and Murrow reigned supreme. For added viewing pleasure, I highly recommend checking out “The McCarthy Years,” a documentary showing the real-life story and narrated by Walter Cronkite.
4. L.A. Confidential
Los Angeles in the 1950s was a breeding ground for police corruption and tabloid journalism. Hollywood’s studio system was nearing its end around this time, and the gossip rags were more than happy to flash a bright bulb on the scandalous behavior of stars and starlets. Director Curtis Hanson re-created this lush time period with film noir perfection in the 1997 film “L.A. Confidential,” starring Kim Basinger and a then unknown Russell Crowe. For the journos out there, its Danny DeVito’s sleazy take on tabloid hound Sid Hudgens that spices things up in LaLa land. His gossip was always “Off the record, on the QT, and very hush-hush.” Beautiful on nearly every level, from the exquisite production values to the gripping screenplay, “L.A. Confidential” is an instant classic, for reporters and general film fans alike.
5. Good Morning Vietnam
“Good Morning Vietnam” holds a special place in my heart, as I was a radio reporter while serving in the U.S. Air Force. And, while training for the job, I had the pleasure of meeting the actual inspiration for Robin Williams’ character, Adrian Cronauer. In the not too distant past, 1965, the war in Vietnam was raging and American forces were fighting a foolish battle while protests raged back home. Sound familiar? Airman Cronauer found himself on the airwaves in Saigon, and when not reading news updates began entertaining the troops with madcap humor and great tunes. The Barry Levinson film showcases Williams at his comic best. “Good Morning Vietnam” rounds out the list of journalism-themed films in hopes of injecting some much needed humor into the dour mood we find ourselves in today.
Editor’s Note: Yes, I realize “All the President’s Men” did not make the list. Why? Anyone that needed a list to tell them the Watergate flick is important need not be reading this blog. I’ve also omitted “Broadcast News” and “Network,” as I didn’t want to create a list full of only obvious choices. Post your favorites in the comments section.
Hollywood is celebrating Spring on primetime TV with an onslaught of mid-season replacements. And Showtime has ushered in the next chapter of King Henry VIII with the third season of “The Tudors.” But with new shows cluttering the primetime lineup, a few ratings deficient programs are going dark.
Enter the latest webisode of Sofa Snark. Fox’s cyborg drama “Terminator: the Sarah Connor Chronicles” delivers hot robot action and a fire-hot ending, Jonathan Rhys Meyers is back and still wicked on “The Tudors” and Jason Priestly hits up the CW’s “90210.” Other shows covered this week include “Medium,” “Cupid,” “In the Motherhood,” “Lost” and “Fringe.”
So, enjoy Sofa Snark and click over to my YouTube channel to rate the video.
If you’re having trouble viewing the video, view it on YouTube.
There might just be another flaw in “American Idol’s” ivory tower of reality competition schlock. Looks like iTunes accidentally 
This season of “American Idol” has been full of gimmicks, and last week showcased the worst one of all. The judges’ choice. Simon Cowell decided to save Matt Giraud, and I single out Simon because his is the only opinion of any value. Sorry Paula Abdul. Then there was the addition of another judge, basically a preemptive move to 
Watch out Ryan Seacrest, the king of auteur films is gunning for your job. 
Warren Beatty’s epic telling of journalist John Reed’s struggle to report on the Russian Revolution is not only riveting for the more than three-hour runtime, but it’s a real-life account of an American hated by his country for sympathizing with Communism. While I can’t see eye-to-eye with Reed when it comes to the Communist Party, for fear of getting put on a list, I can understand his frustration with America when his anti-war stance in 1917 resulted in a lack of employment. As newspapers and media outlets crumble under the pressure of this current economy, journalists should revisit “
“Gonzo: The Life and Work of Dr. Hunter S. Thompson” is a fascinating look into the life of perhaps the wildest journalist to ever roam the planet. This is a documentary that digs deep into Hunter S. Thompson’s eccentric 
As MSNBC host 
Los Angeles in the 1950s was a breeding ground for police corruption and tabloid journalism. Hollywood’s studio system was nearing its end around this time, and the gossip rags were more than happy to flash a bright bulb on the scandalous behavior of stars and starlets. Director Curtis Hanson re-created this lush time period with film noir perfection in the 1997 film “
“
