Lost--"Jughead"

Tonight's episode only focuses on the island and Desmond's exploits. None of the Oceanic Six make an appearance.

No questions are "really" answered, though there are some new surprises and some hints as to some bigger goings-on.

More info after the click.


We start again in an indeterminate time period, though we can assume it is shortly after their escape from the island.

They have a baby. Penny and Desmond are obviously living on foreign soil (waterways).

Back on the island more redshirts die in a trap.

Charlotte is having dizziness and double-vision. It is obvious that the time-jumping is bothering her system, just as it did to Desmond earlier, the two guys from the freighter, and the guy who appeared to Locke last season (chopping down wood for the cabin [Jacob's cabin?]).

Why do only some of them suffer this way? Desmond would have had it not been for his contact with Penny on the freighter. He needed something to bridge his past and his displaced present.

Do all of these people exist in a time that they should not exist? If so, when should Charlotte exist?

It seems that the islanders have been flashed to the early days of the Others or Dharma.

Here's something that has been bothering me since last week, and they brought it up again tonight. Why would Desmond not remember his encounter with Faraday so long after it happened. What happened to his memory of that before? Figuring out how in the world Desmond ticks goes a long way into explaining the secrets of time travel.

Is Desmond leading two different existences with them coinciding from time to time? Dunno. Now, I'm confusing myself.

Latin is the language of the enlightened and the Others.

Desmond and Penny named their baby Charlie.

The islanders are confused for U.S. soldiers (their existence on the island is confirmed by Miles' picking up on the graves).

Richard looks the same as he always does, same as he always does.

So a bomb is on the island. The U.S. government involvement is now explained a bit.

When Desmond is trying to track down Faraday's mom, he doesn't seem to be able to recall the year he met him. Why not?

Faraday lies and says he can render the bomb inert and professes his love for Charlotte.

Locke is totally embracing the idea that he the new leader of CrazyTown (as described by Sawyer).

Desmond tracks down a girl who Faraday was experimenting on, Theresa Spencer. Her sister Abigail explains that Faraday abandoned her as she is now in a state where she is either comatose or talking about events form her past (like talking to her dad who had died five years prior).

Widmore was the benefactor of all of Faraday's experiments and are paying medical bills for Theresa. Abigail seems angry that Faraday ran off.

On the island, Juliet admits that Richard is very old and has always been here. Makes me think that he might have arrived on the Black Rock.

Elle, one of the Others seems familiar to Faraday. Why? Possibilities later.

Desmond gets info on Faraday's mom's whereabouts from Widmore. She's in L.A. Widmore tells
Des to disappear again and to protect Penny. It seems like Widmore is scared that Ben Linus might follow through on his threat to kill her. (Looks to me like this a certainty to happen this season.)

Locke approaches Richard and tells him that Jacob sent him (obviously Jacob is in charge even at this time).

In a major shocker, it is revealed that Widmore is actually an Other. That is something to think about, but it does sort of explain his opposition to Ben Linus.

Through Locke and Richard's conversation, it seems that Richard might be aware of the supernatural nature of the island (Jacob, etc.) but seems perplexed by discussion of time travel. Interesting.

Off-the-Wall theories and questions: (None of these could come to fruition but these are things to think about).

--Elle the Other is actually a younger Theresa Spencer (his lab rat, so to speak). What if at the same time that she is in a hospital bed, she also is experiencing her life at different times. Or is that too Matrix-y? Maybe Faraday helper her go back in time to connect with her father. They wouldn't have brought up the dead father unless it was important. So who would the father be? Another Widmore kid?

--How connected is Faraday to this island? And what is the importance of his connection to Charlotte. What if Charlotte is actually Faraday's daughter? Faraday might have fathered her on a trip further back in time which explains his deep feelings.

--Or on the other hand, what if Charlotte is Faraday's mom? It has been hinted that Charlotte was born on the island. Maybe through some timeline mumbo jumbo, his mom exists in real time (in L.A. now and also on the island.) This could be a shell shock if Desmond knocks on the door in LA only to discover an aged Charlotte. That would be a jaw-dropper you must admit.

--Why does Island Widmore's shirt say Jones? I can't remember. Do they change your identity when you become a member of Dharma? If so, why does Richard still call him Widmore?

--What is the importance of Charlie Part II? It is very likely that Charlie could end up being someone who plays an important part in the show. Someone of mysterious origin. Maybe Jacob? Remember, Richard said that leaders are usually chosen from a long process starting when they are young.

--BIG QUESTION--Remember that three years have passed since the Oceanic Six have left the island, yet we are seeing what is happening on the island immediately following their escape. How will these time lines connect when the Six inevitably return.

I hope it doesn't take all season for the return to the island.

I know I'm forgetting some stuff I have been thinking about, but this will give you all an opportunity to share your theories.

I am looking forward to reading them.

Read more on "Lost--"Jughead""

American Idol Auditons--New York and Puerto Rico

I would like to say I have high hopes for tonight's show, but any time you take two cities' worth of auditions and put them in a single hour, I am not optimistic.

Maybe they'll get rid of some of the extra garbage they have been using lately. I don't want to see the judges bicker or kiss. I don't want to see bad auditions stretched out to the edge of awkwardness.

I just want good.

When you click, my thoughts will appear.


West Side Story is the bridge they use to connect these two different locales.

It seems they will flip-flop throughout the show between the two cities.

Heavily-accented Adeola Adegoke quit her job to pursue her American Idol dream. We start off bad. She begs, and they almost repeat the whole 'calling the boss to get the job back' bit they used years back.

Oh wait. They actually DO repeat the whole 'calling the boss to get the job back' bit they used years back. Cannibalizing from other shows is one thing; cannibalizing from your own? Tacky.

Jorge Nunez from Puerto Rico (an awful descriptor, I know) sings "My Way" in Spanish. He is very talented and sings powerfully. I don't know how versatile his voice will be for this competition, but he is strong. A bit breathy for me, but he is different. They take him.

Singing contest winner Jessika Baier sings some Celine Dion and she hurts my ears. She obviously has an ear but not the tone. She's not the worst singer I've heard, but I'm glad the judges said no.

Rejection montage. I think that this part of the show can be easily excised. It doesn't do anything for me.

Happy, positive naked dancer Melinda Camille wants to uplift humanity and make the universe happier. And you know what? She actually made me happier. Honestly. Not the best, but she has some chops and a very positive attitude. She borders on cruise ship cheese, but her skills outweigh the cheddar. Having said that, the grit of Hollywood will eat her alive. I'm hopeful but realistically pessimistic.

Jackie Tohn, entertainer since she was a wee thing, is unusual. When she sings, she has a very raw sound, but I really, REALLY like her. Her tone is not smooth (gravelly and striking, yet strangely pure), she doesn't show off her range, but she has a sound--a distinct sound that I like. Plus, she has a vibe about her that I dig. Her herky-jerky movements while she sings are distracting, but mayhaps she can tone those down. Is it possible that I have a favorite to root for? I hate liking someone a lot at this stage (been burned too many times before), but I really like her! Have I said that enough?

The set falls down in the middle of Simon's response to her. Four yeses.

Mark my words, this one will be a keeper. Top 12 and beyond. She stands out.

Rejection montage, part deux. Really? We need another one of these? We don't even get to hear the horribleness; we just see the sadness. Yawn.

Bad singing montage. Here are the bad signing auditions.

Puerto Rican crazy rocker and street performer Joel Contreras borders on entertaining. Dressed as a human iPod, he is obviously here just to mess around, and part of me respects that. It's performance art. When he broke out with "Circle of Life" whilst raising a lion puppet, I laughed deeply. For him, his mission was a rousing success. As I said, performance art.

Red-headbanded, sparkly shirted, Nick Mitchell AKA Norman Gentle comes out too strong, throws a few zings at Simon, and again tackles performance art. After being scolded by Simon, he sings "Amazing Grace" subdued and sweet (and pretty good!) but then flips the cabaret switch going full tilt Vegas (again making me laugh). I actually think this guy is funny. Every year they pick some wacko who has no chance of going far, and this year, Norman Gentle is that guy. Of course he stands no chance, but I will be honest that he made me laugh. Maybe it's just me.


Brief Shots:
Ashley Hollister can sing well but instantly bores me.
Kenny Hoffpauer sings some Mraz too much like Mraz.
Kendall Beard, long-haired blondie with white headband, looks like Cameron Diaz and can sing pretty well.

All three go on.

Golden ticket montage.

Bad singer montage.

16-year-old Monique Garcia Torres brings in her 9-year-old brother. He's a cutie. Her voice is pure and sweet but doesn't knock me out. Not strong enough. Simon breaks the tie and she is through to Hollywood. She is way too green for Hollywood, but the experience could help her further down the line.

Alexis Cohen, the rocker who cussed out and flipped off numerous cameramen when she was rejected last year, comes in this year with a new attitude. It is obvious that she just wants camera time, but I don't find her near as entertaining as the performance artists who came before her. She obviously knows she's bad. This is not for real at all. She brings back the fingers back at the end. Her mission is complete.

Patricia Lewis Roman (with the partying family) sings at the same location that her parents got married. Who needs a microphone with her lungs? The unfortunate thing is that her tone suffers with all that volume. You can tell she's talented, but I am not hugely impressed. She sings thirty seconds of something more restrained, and she's better, but I'm not getting the vibe. Sentimentality wins out. She goes through.

Nine total golden tickets from Puerto Rico (Yikes!) and twenty-six from NYC.

Overall, a mixed bag, but some goodies in the mix. I especially liked Jackie Tohn!

I will write a preview for Hollywood later, but I must say that Hollywood weeks are among my favorites!

Bring it on!

Read more on "American Idol Auditons--New York and Puerto Rico"

Top Chef New York--Chef Bowl

Argh! I liked this challenge, and I hated this challenge.

My thoughts after the click.


Okay, so for the main challenge, the chefs had to pick a football team (a regional cuisine) and compete against a Top Chef "all-star." Each couplet (current chef and all-star) get the same ingredients and cook what they wish. Judges and fans choose their favorites. Winners smile; losers could be in the bottom.

I love the idea of cooking against someone with only certain ingredients. Stronger chef win and all that. That works.

The part of this I don't like is how subjective this all is.

I know, I know. This show is always just the opinions of the judges. But somehow, this week it seemed more heavy-handed. Maybe this is why I like American Idol so much. Yes, the judges can put you in good positions and praise you to the stars, but in the end, it's up to the fans (stupid as we may be) to select a winner.

Having Fabio, Stefan, and Jeff all in the bottom seems WAY too planned. I can almost hear the producers' meeting:

Producer 1: We need to mix things up. Stefan is looking way too strong.

Producer 2: What if we make sure he's in the bottom this week.

Producer 1: Yeah, but if he's against weak competition in the bottom, everyone will know he'll be safe. No drama.

Producer 2: We'll make the entire bottom full of some of our stronger chefs. This will be our shocker. We will be the talk of the watercooler with this!

Producer 3: What if we have the dishes tasted blindly?

Producer 1 & 2: NO WAY! That way we wouldn't be able to create the dramatic results we so defintiely want!

Producer 3: Have it your way. Let's pick the bottom three now and then go tell the judges what to do...

Maybe a bit of an overstatement, but tonight's drama seemed manufactured. I think Stefan has shown himself to be a class-A jerk, but also has shown himself to be the best chef on the show. Elevating some weaker chefs (if even for a week) might, in the eyes of the producers, make for a more suspenseful ending.

I really like this show, and I liked the essence of the challenge tonight, but I just sometimes think that they have the season mapped out already.

Jeff going home doesn't bum me out that much. He has been trying to do too much for weeks now. I knew he would go home before the top 4. I just find it hard to believe that this was truly on the up-and-up.

So my predicted order of finish has already been proven to be wrong.

I'll just shift everyone else up.

My predictions (from next to go to winner):

6. Leah
5. Carla
4. Jamie
3. Fabio
2. Hosea
1. Stefan

Agree?

Disagree?

Read more on "Top Chef New York--Chef Bowl"

American Idol Auditions--Salt Lake City

No viewing party tonight. Just me.

I sure hope Salt Lake City is better than Jacksonville. We are due for a good city. Since Kansas City, we have had some duds.

My thoughts post-click.


Home of David Archuletta. Let's hope everyone today doesn't lick their lips or breath at awkward times.

Again, I HATE PREVIEWS of what I am about to watch. This wastes time. Was the talent this weak as to have to preview every little thing? Don't answer that. I think I know the answer.

People in Utah are obviously very happy (according to the intro).

David Osmond (yes, from those Osmonds) is auditioning. According to the video package, his dad (Alan) and he both have Multiple Sclerosis. David was in a wheelchair, but now his MS is in a remission. He sings some Take 6 and had a calm, cool confidence about him. He sings very well! The judges question his solo mentality, but I think it's a smoke screen. He gets a golden ticket. AI wants this guy in the competition, and they want him to go far. Their reluctance to take him is setting up the underdog effect. I need to see more of him (which I am sure I will) to totally make up my mind, but he is a keeper, methinks.

Tara Matthews, psychic red-headed goth fishnet, If not for her gimmicky dress, she would never be in front of the judges. Send her home, sayeth I. Go home, sayeth the judges. And I smile.

Montage of bad singers.

Chris Kirkham can't think of a gimmick, so instead, he brings a person with a gimmick with him. He brings Greg the Rabbit (a guy dressed in a pink rabbit suit) to the audition with him. While Chris (with his Simon shirt and Simon cutout on a stick) sings, Grabbit dances behind him. ("Bizarre Season Eight," thinketh I.) You can tell that Chris is a good casual singer, but there's not enough substance there. Judges must agree as they reject him. Guess the gimmick got him on TV though.

Heavy-handedly edited montage of auditionees being happy at being rejected. Get on with it!

Frankie Jordan, stay-at-home mom, has tons of confidence bordering on INCREDIBLY cocky. She has a different look about her, but she can sing very well. Her cockiness actually makes her seem very comfortable when she sings. (Note: She does, however, have these weird wrinkle lines that divide her forehead in two when she hits certain noted, but I think that borders on nit-picky.) I like her a lot! Barring a meltdown, I see her making it through Hollywood.

Megan Corkrey, newly-divorced mom with the tattoo sleeve, is celebrating her birthday. She has a VERY distinct voice, and yes, I mean that as a compliment. She is really good. I am impressed by the way her voice cuts through. She does have some odd facial tics while singing, but maybe she can work on those. (One can hope.) Good personality. I agree with Simon that she is memorable. I think she is definitely a keeper. She is through to Hollywood. Duh.

Already, Salt Lake City has been better than most of the other cities (barring Kansas City) and the show is only half over.

Andrew Gibson, the bass, can sing low (and is probably good in the shower) gets a quick no.

Austin Sisneros, senior class president, wants to be an inspiration. I think this kid has a great personality and a "good" voice, but I don't see him as AI potential. He does select odd songs (one by Train and another by Raffi!), but maybe he can improve. Likable kid. You saw how far Kevin Covais got on being a likable kid. Could be an early exit, but if he makes it through Hollywood, he could outstay his welcome in the Top 12. I think I mean that in a good way. We'll see.

Rejection montage.

Jarrett Burns, singer with the newsboy cap, sings Corinne Bailey Rae and sings very well (slightly oversinging), but I like his confidence.

I like the vibe of a lot of the SLC singers, if that makes sense.

Tall 16-year-old Taylor Vaifanua has a strong voice but she doesn't jump out at me. I will forget this audition after the next one probably. Also, something about her eyebrows is bugging me. Maybe someone can tell me what is driving me crazy about them. Randy gushes, but I don't know if I'm THAT impressed yet. Should she go through? Probably. Is she that great? Don't think so. Four yeses.

Rose Flack, Idahoan who lost both her parents, has a unique style. She sings some Carole King, and she oozes cool. I don't know if she will make it that far, but I really like her. I want to hear more of her. Nice, not great, vocals.

Overall, I thought that this was a strong show--maybe more talent per minute than Kansas City. (KC got two hours; SLC only got one.)

A winner might come from here...

A show tomorrow night?! Be prepared for a craptastic show. They are squeezing Puerto Rico and NYC in one show? Prepare for the bad. I have heard in an interview with Simon that Puerto Rico was one of the worst audition cities of the season. Seeing the bad that was Louisville and Jacksonville, be afraid.

Be very afraid.

Read more on "American Idol Auditions--Salt Lake City"

American Idol Auditions--Jacksonville

Okay. Yes, I know I am late with the thoughts of Jacksonville's show.

1. I am sorry.

2. Was it really that worthwhile of a show?

3. Did I mention that I was sorry?

My thoughts about the show after the click.



I was lucky enough to be invited to an AI viewing party (which amounted to me and three of my friends from ComedySportz--Troy, Carrie, and Will).

Fun was had by all as we yelled at the contestants, the judges, and each other.

BUT, I know that you aren't reading this to find out about my rockin' social life. You want to know about the show.

(I will interject some comments shared by the people at the party (furthermore called "The Gang") from time to time.

First off, it is obvious that this show is short on content. We are shown more banter in this episode and fluffy nothingness than I have seen lately.

Do I really need to see Simon and Ryan palling around in the back of a limo?

I'll make this short and sweet.

First we are reminded of the greatness of Randy Jackson. Get it? It's Randy Jackson and the show is in Jacksonville tonight. Clever, right?

Tonight is so going to rock!

By the way, a side note here. I am not trying to take away from Randy Jackson's obviously successful career, but I am tired of him always being referred to as the bassist of Journey. Journey has been active from 1973 to 1987 and then from 1995 to the present.

During that time, Randy Jackson was with the band for ONE YEAR (1986-87). He recorded one album with them (Journey's ninth) and went on one tour with them. Every other year of the band's existence, Ross Valory has been the bassist for Journey. I am sure that Ross Valory hates him some Randy Jackson every time Herr Jackson is referred to as THE bassist of Journey. And the one album that Randy played with Journey was not the best one either (Raised on Radio). It was no Escape that is for sure.

He has tons of credits having played with many top shelf talents. Why do people cling on to Journey? He was also the bassist for the Divinyls. Yes, that Divinyls. Yes, the band that played the song, "I Touch Myself." That is how I will always remember him.

I challenge you not to think about Randy Jackson next time you hear that song. I dare you.

Randy Jackson rant off.

Party Update: Troy (the host) gives me water in a can. It's not a bad thing, but I have never had water in a can. It tastes, strangely enough, just like water. What a sheltered life I lead.

Montage of fans set to "Can't Stop Believing," a Journey song that Randy Jackson didn't play on.

Randy Jackson rant really off this time.

Where in the world is this audition taking place? It looks like a community center in a neighborhood. I wonder what the Homeowners' Association will have to say about this?

Party Update: Carrie thinks that Ryan is "a douche."

Joshua Ollua, Justin Guarini look-alike, is way too corny for me. He has a really good voice, but as he sings, he feels the need to share sound effects that don't seem to add anything to the performance, scratching, trumpets, etc. It was as if he had some form of musical Tourette's. Personality is good, but too much is too much. Simon shares his reservations about his sound effects, but when it comes down to it, all say yes. This guy majorly gets on my nerves.

And it is obvious to me early that if they are taking someone like this, they have very low standards for Jacksonville.

Sharon Wilbur, Shih-Tzu girl, sings one of my favorite songs, Superstar, and sings it like it is an upbeat romp. (By the way, though I love the original Carpenters' version, check out the version by Sonic Youth; it rocks!) She misses it for me. Yes, she can sing, but come on! Doesn't presentation count for anything these days?
And the way she sings "Baby" is all kinds of annoying. The judges unanimously take her.

It is official. Jacksonville will completely suck. I can't wait for this girl to get sent home on day one in Hollywood as she tries to smile her way through American Pie or some other somber tune.

Gnats try to kill Ryan, but they fail. Another reason to hate gnats: can't finish the job they start.

Stupid time wasting of which judge will kiss whom. Boring.

Black hatted, red dressed Dana Moreno "sings" Chaka Khan badly. Maybe this is why the judges took the ones they did. Sigh.

More filler with Ryan getting lost. Yawn.

Confident 16-year-old in the madras dress Kaneswa Finnie sings in front of the judges and does not make it. I do like that the judges pull in the mom to convince her that her daughter cannot sing.

Party Update: Before you make fun of me for knowing that the fabric that Kaneswa wore was madras, blame Troy. he was the fashion expert in that moment.

Latina Miss Candidita Julissa Veloz comes in with her sash, her tiara, and a hip-speaking attitude. When she sings, she flips a swirch and can actually sing. Is she the best, I don't think so, but is she good? Yes. She is the best of the night, but that is not saying a lot. Paula doesn't get to share her opinion, so she thows a mini-faux-fit. This show is all about the fluff tonight. All judges say yes. She could fill a niche in the competition. I think she could make it to the audience vote, but not much further. Bring on some singing.

Party Update: Carrie, after witnessing Paula's pouty-fit, calls Paula "a ho-bag."

Ultra-happy tennis instructor Darren Darnell sees a newly found friend cut and his confidence crumbles. He cries through his hideous audition and then cries through the welcome announcement that he was cut. Get this kid some Xanax and fast.

Tall, overexcited, limber chick Naomi Sykes brings in her friend that is Randy Jackson's biggest fan. Everyone sits on each others lap while Naomi murders Minnie Riperton. (Trivia: Maya Rudolph, former SNL actress, is Minnnie Riperton's daughter.) This whole thing has lost any semblance of professionalism. It should be fun, but it just stikes me as dreadful.

Randy calls this, "Bizarre Season Eight!" I call it, "Boring, Inane Filler That Needs to Stop Now or I Will Throw Something Heavy and Possibly Pain-Inflicting at My Television Set Thus Voiding My Manufacturer's Warranty." You can tell by the look on Naomi's friend's face that this whole thing must be a joke. Stop wasting my time!

Whenever someone leaves the audition room (with or without a golden ticket), it appears that they are leaving the back of someone's abode. This would have been a great location for Girl Scout Troop #342 to hawk their wares.

Nine go through from day 1. Simon chalks up the group as mostly terrible. I must agree.

More Jacksonville filler. Yawn.

16-year-old shy girl with a large family Jasmine Murray sings some Fergie and has a good voice. It's too nasal for my taste, but she seems like she is personable and could make some waves. With the right song selections, she could surprise.

Party Update: Though Will, Troy, and myself thought that she was pretty good, Carrie threw down the gauntlet and declared that this girl will "WIN THE WHOLE THING!" She has picked a winner. Poor, poor delusional Carrie.

We then see an entirely too long segment on awkward physics student George Ramirez. He has a large beard and wants marble floors in eleven years. He is bad.

Anne Marie Boskovich kisses up to Cara, but the judges don't like her image. They give her a chance to come back looking different, but at the same time 'her.' This is just a time-wasting ploy.

T.K. Hash, reject from last year, sings Imagine, and sings well but tries to do too much to it. He has potential and seems likable, but I wasn't blown away. The judges take him though Simon says no. He's better than some of the ones that were unanimous yeses earlier. Oh well. That's Jacksonville for you.

Michael Perrelli guitarist/performer is upset about not being able to play his guitar at the audition. He way too emotional for this gig. He sings some Third Eye Blind and he's okay (clear voice), but he seems to have a voice that NEEDS accompaniment. Unfortunately, he whines and makes excuses when faced with rejection. The more he complains and pleads, the worse the situation gets. He is rejected by all. When his mother tries to console him, he pushes her away. Ryan actually rebukes him, telling him he can't treat his mother that way.

Party Update: This gains Ryan points with the previously Ryan-hating Carrie. He is no longer "a douche" in her eyes. He apparently just has "douche-like tendencies."

Anne Marie Boskovich comes back looking much like she did before but with more make-up. She sings "Bubbly," and does so effortlessly. She seems to be a natural. She is my favorite of the night, and I think that AI wants her to be big.

Only sixteen made it through from Jacksonville, and I wasn't impressed by most of them.

Miss Latina and Makeover Girl are the only ones that I think may stand a chance.

Party Update: These were the post-show thoughts.
Troy--"Not enough." (Yes, those were his complete thoughts.)
Carrie--"Meh! Not impressed!" (beat) "Except for the girl I think is going to win."
Will--"I've seen stronger episodes. No winner from here."

Your thoughts?

Read more on "American Idol Auditions--Jacksonville"

Top Chef--Restaurant Wars

Down to eight contestants means that it is time for Restaurant Wars. This is always an enjoyable challenge. It is amazing at how these contestants should be ready for this kind of challenge but so often make silly mistakes. My thoughts (complete with spoilers) below.



My thoughts:

It seems to me that the fates of most of the contestants are pretty much sealed.

I know that the judges say that every meal is judged independently of other accomplishments, but it seems like there is a pecking order.

Radhika deserved to go home. Her leadership skills were weak, and when you are the leader, you need to do what it takes to make sure your team succeeds.

Leah was a weak leader on her side, too (and a pretty poor chef).

She and Carla will go home in some order in the next two weeks.

Then it will come down to Jeff and Jamie the next two weeks. They are both talented, but Jeff seems to try too hard, and Jamie has shown some inconsistencies (won two challenges but been in the bottom twice).

This will leave us with the top three (Stefan, Hosea, and Fabio).

I think Stefan is by far the most talented chef on the show. Yes, he is a jerk, but he has the skill to back up his attitude. I think he will be the deserving winner.

Fabio is more personable and charismatic than Stefan, but I don't think he quite has the chops that Stefan has.

Hosea used to be the most likable guy on the show (prior to Kissgate), but I think he is a good chef (and I think he will improve once Leah goes home).

My predicted order of the finish is:

7. Leah
6. Carla
5. Jeff
4. Jamie
3. Fabio
2. Hosea
1. Stefan

Thoughts?

Read more on "Top Chef--Restaurant Wars"

Lost--Season Premiere(s)

Welcome back, Lost! I was worried as to how this season would start, but it seems like my worries were for naught. Spoiler thoughts when you click. Please post your thoughts; I'd like to hear them!



What an awesome beginning to the season.

I am sure that the time jumping will leave many scratching their heads (me included), but I really enjoy this.

Random thoughts:

I'm glad Faraday is on this show to shed some light on the whole time-jumping and to help establish some of the 'time manipulation' rules. I am not completely sure how these work (the single thread of time that cannot be altered), but I am enjoying the ride.

You can only interact with people who you interacted with prior to that moment when two people from different times are currently cohabiting?

So, when the island disappeared, I know it traveled in time, but where did it go physically? Did it go to a time after it was destroyed? Or to a time before it even existed?

[Off-Topic Note: Did anyone else squeal with glee upon recognizing one of the Kate-haranguing lawyers as Tom Irwin who played the father in "My So-Called Life"? Just me?]

The going back in forth between time periods on the island is tres' nifty.

Anyone else disappointed that we didn't see the ghost of Boone?

Anyone else disappointed that we saw the ghost of Ana Lucia?

I like new bad-ass Sun. I don't know about her collaborating with Whitmore, but she sure seems determined.

It seems that the Others are part of the island, so as the island goes through time, so do they--while everyone else on the island is stationary.

OR is the island staying stationary and are the people the ones doing the time traveling?

It was good seeing some Hurley. Hugo episodes are always my favorite. I was surprised to see Cheech more likable in this episode. I was expecting him to continue to be the scum we were introduced to upon his last appearance.

So, Hurley seems to be the one who can have chats with the ghosts of island casualties.

Who washes knives in a dishwasher with the blades up? That's an accident waiting to happen. Tonight's episode was a case in point. Get it? Case in POINT.

Locke has to die to save the island? What is the importance of saving the island? Saving the inhabitants of the island, or are there more wide-reaching implications?

It was nice seeing Neil, an expendable character, get annoying and then die with a flaming arrow in the chest. It was like Dr. Arzt revisited. ("I got Arzt on me.")

What is the importance of Charlotte's nosebleed? She said she hadn't had one since she was a kid. Is this a way to tell us that the people on the island are the ones that are doing the time travel as opposed to the island traveling through time?

Who is the new group of people on the island that attack Sawyer and Juliet? Where are they from? When are they from?

The old lady is Ben's superior? Is she Faraday's mom in Oxford?

Anyone have thoughts? Answers? More questions?

What a tangled, fun, fun, fun web we weave...

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American Idol Auditions--Kentucky

Tonight better be better than last night as I found it to be most disappointing. Click below to see my thoughts.



Kentucky.

Let me start by saying that I hate seeing previews before a show. I really do. That is one of the joys of TiVo. I understand commercials nights before, but right before the show? I like to kind of guess whether or not a contestant will be any good or not. These pre-show teasers ruin a lot of suspense for me. Hate it. I also hate it when the show teases what's going to happen right after the break. Are the producers that scared that we will turn away? This is American Idol for crying out loud!

Wasted time.

Yay. Horse racing comparisons from Ryan and the judges all night long. Can they make glue out people?

Bleach blond Tiffany Shedd is awful. Stop wasting my time. She's not even funny. How can her parents delude her to let her think she is good?

Philadelphia singer Joanna Pacitti (long, black hair) used to have a record contract with A&M, and it didn't work out. Shades of Carly Smithson? Honestly, she's pretty good, but I am not blown away. She might be better than what we saw, but I think she looks disposable. It would not surprise me if she makes it to America's Vote, but it also wouldn't surprise me if I long for her dismissal if she makes it to top 12. She's through to Hollywood.

Bad luck Mark Mudd sounds like a true Kentucky boy. He sings some George Jones and makes his exit quickly.

Blue shirted stubble boy Brent Keith Smith sings some Bad Company and can't stop stamping his foot. He sings very well, but I couldn't get past his FOOT TAPPING. Maybe it was nerves, but I don't see this kid lasting long. He's through. Maybe I'm just harder to please tonight.

What was with Paula and Cara going under the table? Did they think that was funny? Sigh.

Bad montage. Yawn.

Dueling pianist Matt Giraud has a unique singing style, but he sounds like he is struggling to breathe. His breathing is ultra distracting. If he can ditch the stylistic 'I'm having an asthma attack' vocal styling, he could be better. As it is now, just give the guy some oxygen and send him on his way. Instead, they put him through to Hollywood and praise him highly. I am not in sync with the judges tonight.

Pseudo-intellectual Ross Plavsic seems to me like he is putting on an act. I don't think he is for real.

Memphis native and mom Alexis Grace can belt! It seems like it is too much at times, but she seems to be singing with raw emotion and good tone. I am intrigued by this one. First time tonight I really sat up and took notice. I don't know how she will do on other, softer songs, but I like her.

Mega-happy smiling guy Aaron Williamson sings some CCR at 11. He must be fun at parties. Great attitude; wrong time.

(Anyone catch Simon's dis of Tyra Banks? Catty!)

Cheat sheet interviewee Rebecca Garcia sings poorly and Cara thinks it must be a joke. Awkwaaard. Guess not.

Quick Golden Ticket Snapshots:
--Kris Allen (newsboy hat) probably shows the best voice of the night (all five seconds of it)
--Felicia Barton is refreshing with some Corrine Bailey Rae.
--Ryan Johnson (David Cook hair) is better than most of what we've seen.
--Shera Lawrence shows nice vocal control bit is forgettable.

Leneshe Young, raised in poverty, sings an original song that shows off her style. She has a vibe going on. She's great in a quirky way! She knows who she is as a singer. That much is evident. How that meshes with what American Idol throws at her, who knows? But this is one I'm keeping my eyes on. A keeper. They saved the best for last in Kentucky! (Or the editors did.)

I was very unimpressed with the first half of this show, BUT I liked Leneshe Young tons and am very intrigued by Alexis Grace. The only guys of note for me this evening were shown in the BRIEF shots of Kris Allen and Ryan Johnson.

Everything else was a wash.

19 go through from Louisville.

Next stop: Jacksonville, Florida.

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American Idol Auditions--San Francisco

Part of me is actually disappointed that tonight’s AI is only an hour long.

Well, we’re in San Francisco, so I expect some “interesting” auditions this evening.



I have had some constructive criticism from people that say my descriptions of contestants aren’t descriptive enough. I agree that the names may not be enough to trigger a memory.

So, I will still use names, but I will try harder to use descriptors that remind you who these people are.

First up is Puerto Rican girl with the ugly (with a capital F) dress and the hideous laugh (Tatiana Del Toro). A psychic told her that she will make it to the top 12. She bores me, and she has a hard time taking criticism. She doesn’t have a horrible voice, but I am not smitten. The judges are unsure but take her based on her “drama” and her “vibe.” I think she will make a fiery exit on the first day in Hollywood. Ah, the transparency of their motives. They created someone that America will root for… to go home quickly.

Next is modern Cro-Magnon man with weird coat (Dean-Anthony Bradford). He tires me out with his “energetic” performance. Can you say overkill? I knew you could.

Family man Jesus Valenzula sings decently. Simon tells him no, but after inviting his kids in, three out of four puts him through. He’s likeable, but is he “make it through Hollywood” likeable? Too soon to say, but I’m doubtful.

Rubik’s Cube master Dalton Powell has negative energy and a hideous voice. Nothing more to say.

Anatomy expert Akilah Askew-Gholston sings an original song then tries some Aretha. Her excuse for her poor warbling was that she “came from the wrong rectum.” My “ligenical cartilages” were all a-tingle. In a bad, bad way. I was irracitated to the max.

Quickies who make it.
Alternative-looking mop top John Twiford has a nice smooth voice (for all 10 seconds of Stevie Wonder that we hear).
Redhead Allison Iraheta’s voice cracking must have impressed the judges but not me.
Long-haired Raquel Houghten’s rendition of Dusty Springfield is too winky and surface for me, but again, the judges say yes.

Indecisive blonde Annie Murdoch eventually sings “Summertime,” and it’s all cabaret and bad.

Alternative comb over boy Adam Lambert used to be in the cast of Wicked. He sings “Bohemian Rhapsody,” and, yes, Virginia, I liked it. Nice control and great tone. I wanted to hear more, but this guy might have the image and sound to make it to the top 12. I get a good vibe here. Simon thinks he is overly theatrical, but he goes through unanimously.

Sayid look-alike (if you squint your eyes) Kai Kalama, his mother’s caregiver, sings one of my favorite songs of all time, “When Smoke Gets in Your Eyes.” I think his phrasing is odd, but he has a solid voice. Might be one to watch, but it’s too soon to say.

Only 12 go on from San Francisco, and Adam Lambert is really the only one I REALLY liked (followed by Kai Kalama). No good female vocalists in San Fran? Guess not.

Maybe it was good that San Francisco only got an hour.

Next stop: Kentucky.

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American Idol Auditions--Kansas City, Missouri

Part Two of the FOUR HOUR, TWO NIGHT EXTAVAGANZA!

Let's see how shallow tonight's talent pool is!



Kansas City, here we come! Missouri, not Kansas.

Jason Castro is here, supporting his brother.

Chelsea Maquardt has friends who lie to her. She thinks she’s good; she’s not. She’s sharp and flat alternately, but the judges comfort her by telling her that she is pretty. She says she picked the wrong song. Yeah, that’s what it was.

Ashley Anderson mixes up her words but can sing. She bores me at the beginning but comes to life as the song goes on. She’s likeable and goes on. Could be a keeper.

Casey Carlton sings effortless and seems to sparkle. I don’t know is she can sing with the big dogs, but I like her (I’m sure there’ll be some big dos soon, right?).

Montage of bad singers…

Von Smith has a white hat and a great range. He sings “Somewhere over the Rainbow,” and he can blow. He teeters on the edge of yelling at me (a pet peeve of mine), but he is good. This kid is GOOD. If he doesn’t fall into the trap of always belting, he could be a contendah!

Jason Castro’s brother Michael is auditioning. The Castro family dinners must be fun… and filled with a mysterious haze. He has been singing for 20 days? He’s got a cool vibe, but I don’t think he’s in this for the long haul.

Crazy montage…

Welder with a family, Matt Breitzke, sings one of my favorite songs of all time, “Ain’t No Sunshine.” Not bad; not great. Middlin’. Nice song choice though. Judges aren’t unanimous, but he’s through.

Jessica Furney screams at her grandmother and sings Janis. She has a grit to her that is nice, but the whole sound isn’t there for me. There are moments where she backs off that sound weak. I don’t want her to scream at the whole time obviously, but it just seemed like the volume was being turned down at the ends of the phrases. Ambivalent am I.

Two rapping sisters, India and Asia, come in and the judges vote India through and not Asia. Asia is so supportive of her sister. Pretty cool. India won’t last long though.

Jamar Rogers, bartender, belts out “California Dreamin’,” but it was overkill. If he dials it back, he could be good, but man, is he a lot of voice. He’s through, so who knows?

Danny Gokey, music teacher, is dealing with the recent passing of his wife. He sings great! I like his voice quite a bit! One of the best male voices I’ve heard.

Both friends are through. Danny will last longer.

Anoop Desai has a nice soulful voice, and I like him. I don’t know if he’ll be a keeper, but one can hope.

Andrew Lang has cheerleaders as an opening act. His voice wasn’t bad, but it wasn’t wonderful. Tears abound when he gets rejected.

Band director Asa Barnes sings Michael Jackson and he is in the pocket. There’s something about this guy that makes think he’s going far. Lock it in. He’s a keeper.

Michael Nicewonder teaches us why it is important to listen to your mother. If your mom says you can’t sing, she’s trying to protect you from being humiliated on national television. Kids these days.

Dennis Brigham dreams of Simon’s praise, but gets a yes from everyone but. He seems a very, very, very, very, very raw talent, but he will be quite emotional when he gets cut early in Hollywood.

Mia Conley, Sleeping Beauty, should have kept sleeping.

Lil Rounds sings Stevie and does a great job! She will easily be a top singer in this competition. I’m sold. Judges pour tons of praise on her, but I think it’s deserving.

Some good talent tonight.

26 go to Hollywood from Kansas City.

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American Idol Auditions--Phoenix

So, here we go with surely must be the sixtieth season of American Idol.

Or does it just feel that way?

No mater what Sanjayas or Bucky Covingtons they throw at me, I just keep coming back like a junkie looking for his fix.



This season seems like they are saying things are going to be different, but in reality, it seems like they are just reverting things back to the way it used to be. So, going along with the theme of change, I am going to change up my recaps.

Instead of recapping every last moment of every show, I am going to watch the show and NOT TYPE until something grabs my attention. It may end up being stream of consciousness drivel that may make no sense to anyone at all, but that is the approach I am going to try.

If there is nothing of note in the show, this could be the shortest recap ever.

Begin show.

Where do they get off saying this is a two-night season premiere? What kind of marketing mumbo jumbo is this? The first night is the season premiere; the second is the second show of the season. What ev.

Three minute intro full of clips that were hard to watch as I fast forwarded them. I stop just in time to wonder if Ryan was going to fall into the Grand Canyon. Something tells me he will be safe.

Oh, the recapping is STILL not over. Sigh.

Now, we see clips that we are going to see. Sigh. Just get it started.
They keep teasing us before the commercial to come back to see if Ryan falls into the Grand Canyon and he never does. The disappointments begin early.


Phoenix, Arizona

We meet the new judge: Kara DioGuardi.

Thirteen minutes in before the first singer is introduced.

Nice fro. Not really. Cheesy singer.

Beauty school dropout tattoo girl (Emily Hughes) sings Barracuda. Judges love her. I think she’s good but not as good as the judges think. She seems like she’s screaming the high notes instead of hitting them. They repeat the “Constantine leaving his band” drama from seasons past. She’ll probably make it through Hollywood to the audience vote.

Faux rocker Randy Madden cries and I know immediately he will be bad. Really bad. He’s not as bad as I thought, but he’s obviously not good enough.

High schooler J.B. Ahfua has really bad eyebrows. Really bad. He has Hitler stash brows. Nice voice, but he bores me and creeps me out at the same time. He’ll be out early in Hollywood.

Scared Michael Gurr is obviously pretending to get airtime, singing in a weird affected manner. It worked. They showed him.

Montage of bad singers who are desperate for exposure.

X-Ray is all enthusiasm and little else. I want what he’s having.

Ariana (pay it forward girl) Afsar has a beautiful voice! Her right lip kind of snarls when she sings, but I love her tone. Young, but a keeper. Send her to the Top 36!

Bass singer sings badly.

16-year-old pink cowgirl (Lea Marie Golde) is a Kara DioGuardi fan? I’ve never heard of her, and now everyone on this show is pulling an Eddie Haskell by praising her. Weird nasal tone to her voice but a decent shower singer. She should stay there, shrively prune fingers and all. Judges send her home.

Stevie Wright sings some Etta James. I liked her voice a lot, but I don’t know how flexible she’ll be with different styles. Very likeable. She’s one to watch.

Paula compares Stevie to Kelly Clarkson. Do we have our first chosen one (the one that AI tries to push down our collective throats)? It’s a good thing I like her.

Michael the oil rigger has a strong voice and a friendly aw shucks demeanor. Not my fave, but good.

Bathing suit girl Katrina says that she will make out with Ryan. Ryan turns her down for “professional” reasons. Yeah, right, Ryan. Wink wink. Another shower singer with weak control. Kara puts her down and bathing suit girl fights back. Sigh. When will these contestants learn? She’ll be out early in Hollywood.

Later, she kisses Ryan and, he looks SO uncomfortable. Ahem.

Sexual Chacalate sings some Stevie, and he reminds me how great Stevie’s voice is. Sexual is not good.

Rejection montage.

Energetic Brianna Quijada has a good personality with an OK voice and a weak lower register. The judges are split, but she’s through. I think she’ll be an early casualty in Hollywood.

Deanna Brown adopts a family and sings “Sitting on the Dock of the Bay.” She’s closer to Michael Bolton than to Otis Redding, and I don’t mean that as a compliment. Judges like her, but I’m iffy.

Horror movie fan Cody sings James Morrison’s “Wonderful World,” and I like it. He reminds me a bit of last year’s Danny, but he sings effortlessly. Not my favorite, but good nonetheless.

Geek Alex Wagner-Trugman missed a Spanish test for this. I like his dry sense of humor. When he sings, his eyebrows do a weird up-and-down thing. BUT if you close your eyes (trust me; I did), he sounds REALLY good. I can see them pulling a Clay and metamorphosing him into something more marketable to the public. And

Alex gives my favorite line of the night. When Randy mentions Joe Cocker, Simon followed by mentioning a Cocker Spaniel to which Alex replies in his mumbling manner: “That would be a good joke if it made sense.” This guy cracks me up. Am I alone here? Will he make it far? No, but I’ll enjoy him while he stays.

“Wanted Dead or Alive” medley. Pass. Reality check. Remember: all of these singers singing the same song are singing for the producers NOT the judges. The footage of the judges reacting is spliced in.

Scott Macintyre, seeing-impaired singer-songwriter, sings Billy Joel. Nice voice. Not necessarily the best song to show off his voice, but it was well done in a restrained, controlled way. Four yeses and he’s through. Barring a breakdown in Hollywood, I would be dumbstruck if they don’t let him get to the Top 36.

Final Scorecard: 27 golden tickets given out in Phoenix.

My faves of the night:
Ariana Asfar
Stevie Wright
Scott Macintyre
Alex Wagner-Trugman (sue me)

Horror movie Cody is just on the outside, but I think the rest that were taken will be early exits in La-La land.

Bingham out.

Read more on "American Idol Auditions--Phoenix"

Cool Links

Here are some links that I found useful.

TV/Movie Links:
IMDB
Ain't It Cool News


Fun Links:

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Misc. Shows to Come

I will also post some thoughts on some miscellaneous shows as well.

Read more on "Misc. Shows to Come"

Fringe Thoughts Soon to Come

I will post my thoughts on Fringe soon.

Read more on "Fringe Thoughts Soon to Come"

The Bachelor Thoughts Soon to Come

I will post Bachelor thoughts soon.

Read more on "The Bachelor Thoughts Soon to Come"

House Thoughts Soon To Come

I will post House thoughts soon.

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About Me

Welcome to my blog!

I have always been mesmerized by television. As a preteen in the eighties, I used to devour TV Guides as soon as they came in the mail. I loved when new shows would come out. I used to handicap with my friends which shows would last and which ones wouldn't. I was often right (which tells you quite a bit about network execs). I could've told them that Manimal and Automan would fail.

While most kids had a favorite team they would follow, I had a favorite network--NBC for most of my youth. How could you go wrong with the network that brought you St. Elsewhere, Hill Street Blues, Remington Steele, David Letterman, SNL, and The A-Team? My opinion was later bolstered by shows like Hunter, Night Court, and Family Ties.

It's not that I didn't like shows on other networks; it just always seemed like I was cheating on my true love when I enjoyed a non-NBC show.

My love for TV never waned as I grew older (though my channels of preference expanded greatly). Televised friends came; they went. I laughed; I cried.

I watched.

And I keep on watching.

Now, I just feel the need to share my thoughts on these televised moments. I have always watched TV as an active viewer, and to me what makes this passive activity active is the analysis and discussion of these shows.

That's what this blog is: my thoughts, my analysis, and an open invitation for you to share yours.

As for the blog itself, I have really never done this sort of thing before, so bear with me while I make tons of changes.

If you have suggestions about how I can improve this blog, please post them and let me know.

Until next time, happy viewing and happy blogging!

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Hell's Kitchen

Thoughts on Hell's Kitchen.

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Heroes

Heroes thoughts will be here soon!

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The Office

Thoughts are soon to come.

Read more on "The Office"

New Comment System

IGNORE THIS POST!

Apparently, this cool new thing I implemented over the weekend is BLOCKED by our servers at school. That means that people can't see any comments at school, getting rid of a large part of the viewership. I will go back to the old system of comments or find something better.

Thanks!

Okay, I have heard the voices of many and I have changed the comments system. I switched from using the default Blogger comments to Disqus.

Disqus has many bells and whistles that are worth checking out. This should make it easier to follow threads in which you show interest and actually comment on other people's comments in a visually obvious way.

Do me a favor and play around by posting some comments to this post. If you notice problems, let me know.

Here's what you must do. Hit comments (as usual). Type in your comment.

Then you may either
1. Select Unclaimed (this is like anonymous). The problem is that when you do this, you may not get an email back telling you that someone has replied to your comment.

2. Select Register. This is the preferred choice. You just type in what username you want (you might need to use your first and last name which is what I did to get a unique one), email address and password. Then anytime someone responds to your email, you will automatically get an email letting you see the post.

3. Select Login. If you have already registered, just type in your username and password. If you always use the same private computer, when you click Login, it should already fill-in your info, so you don't have to enter ANY information again. Pretty simple. Again, all responses to your reply will go straight to you.

4. Facebook Connect. This is a new option that I am still figuring out. More about this soon.

Again, this site is as much yours as it is mine. If you see things that need to be fixed or know ways in which I can do this, let me know.

Only problem is that all of the older posts (prior to this) will have the old comment system. Only the new ones will have the new system. That's why I want you to comment on this post for testing purposes.

Thanks again!

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