The Year-End Spectacular

It probably won't be that spectacular, but it might just be my last post of the year.

These last few weeks have definitely been eventful. In some ways good and bad in others. I've taken on more responsibility concerning my new baby brother. So have my two sisters. I've also been working a lot more (which means I've spent a little more cash than usual, thus defeating the purpose of working more hours...) and hope to hear in the next few weeks about a possible second job. One with substantial pay that includes benefits, vacation time and paid holidays. That would put me working at least six days a week, until I go completely out of my mind anyway. It would be a major step up though, and the pay is fantastic.

Christmas was a big day for my family. My sister Kelly got engaged to her long-time boyfriend. I couldn't have picked a better man for her if I wanted to. While I was extremely excited for them I grew encreasingly frustrated with almost everyone elses need to make the event about themselves. Especially my girlfriend and my other sister, who were so jealous it made me violently ill. But, there wasn't much I could do about that, besides propose to my girl, and that's not gonna happen (remind me to give my lecture on marriage someday...).

As big a present as that was for the whole family, there were still others to go around. I didn't give quite as good as I got though. My girlfriend got tickets to go see Wicked, which is still a few months away, but it was what she wanted. She also got Nintendogs and a DS, but she got those well over a month ago because she couldn't wait. I got Simpsons Season 7, the extended Sin City DVD, Burnout for the DS, two jackets, one of which didn't fit, South Park Season 5, Vol 2&3 of Speed Racer, the Marvel Legends Deadpool figure (easily my most favorite present!!), a nice Fossil watch, Thundercats Vol. 1, an odd little drinking game (even odder that I don't drink much). I think that covers it all. Well, except what I've gotten for myself recently.

From Amazon I got the Seinfeld Season 5&6 gift set (for about sixty bucks too!), the new John Oszajca cd, Toy Story 2 and Snatch. From EB Games I got Planetes Vol. 1, Aeon Flux: The Complete Series, Garfield and Friends Vol. 4 (no, I don't have 1-3, but it was $15), the Outsider and the Man Who Fell to Earth. For baby bro and myself to enjoy I picked up the Disney Treasures Silly Symphonies set. Got it for under $15, found out it's worth quite a bit more since it's out of print. Lucky discovery by me. Oh, and I actually found a copy of Danger Doom at Target. I bought it and love the hell out of it. It's like Wu-Tang for the geek crowd, well worth the ten bucks it costs.

I've also bought a number of comics lately, so here's som short snippets about 'em.

Y, the Last Man #40

A stand alone story focusing on two women in Yorick's life. With this Vaughan takes a bit of a soap-operatic approach. It was still interesting, and the surprise was definitely a surprise, it just feels like he's running out of ideas so in comes the melodrama. Hopefully things will get better with the upcoming arc.

Cable & Deadpool #23

Thank God this is over. Confusing, weird, and only occasionally funny, this is easily the wors arc the book has had since its first. Even I didn't know enough about the world of X to understand everything that was going on here. Good stuff with Cage and Iron Fist though.

Penny Arcade 25 cents

Yeah, this was even wors. Not funny at all and even more confusing. Likely over my head since I know diddly about the books origins as a comic strip. But, you'd think this would be a good place to hook someone like me, instead I'll probably never read another strip. Give me PvP anyday.

Local #2

Anyone else get a screwed up copy? Had to read it twice to realize I got double pages, and even then I didn't care about the story. Maybe I'm just too damn old, but all this just seemed to scream "play some emo music!!!!" to me. Kids, I'll never understand them.

Jonah Hex #2

Hrm. I loved, loved, LOVED the first issue, but this was only slightly above mediocre. The story is sloppy and you barely have time to get invested in it before it's over. But, since these are stand alone stories I'll likely pick up $3 and see if they can bounce back. Nice cover though.

Grounded #4

Listening to DVD commentaries has brought the term "10%-ed" into my vocabulary. What it means is that a show is run through a machine that speeds everything up by 10%. It helps to fit more material in and viewers can rarely tell the difference. This series is the equivelant of that, only instead of not being able to see it, it's bothering the hell out of me. I like the basics, I like the characters, but so much of it just flies by and is left unexplained that I fel like I'm lost in this world. When the series wraps I'm going to reread the whole thing and see if I can understand the thing any better.

A Distant Soil #1-3

These certainly aren't new, but damn are they good. Doran is a master at this type of storytelling. It's the comic equivelant of the Holy Trilogy, before Lucas mucked it all up. Well, it's far better than the Star Wars films really. There's more thought put into the story, though Doran admits to constantly seeing things she wants to change in it, and she has changed it to make it better (or had, since these are pretty old issues), only she actually made it better. I need to track these down, but I'm hoping to find a few trades online, or maybe someone selling an entire run.

Joker/Mask #1-4

Good mini that focuses on what happens when Joker discovers Loki's Mask. Interesting look into what makes the Joker the Joker, but outside of that it's nothing really special. Good art, appropriate since it seems to bee more of the animated Series Bats than the regular DCU Bats. You can almost hear Mark Hamill's voice coming off the page.

Batgirl: Year One #1-9

Another oldie I've finally gotten around to reading. Never been a big Dixon fan, but I think teaming him with Beatty helped keep the script less fetish-y, and art by Marcos Martin and Alvaro Lopez is fantastic. Babs is one of my favorite characters in comics, and I always try to pick up any story that involves her as Batgirl, and this didn't disappoint.

Maybe more later...maybe!

-L

There's No Place I Can Be, Since I Found the List

Jeez whatta week. Read lots of comics, saw a few movies and watched some TV, so I'll actually have a post about most of that later. For now though, here's some stuff you can buy to stuff some stocking's.

Battlestar Galactica - Season 2.0

I guess I need to start watching this. Everyone keep's telling me how good it is, so it'll be Netflixed I suppose.

The Brothers Grimm

This, though, I heard wasn't that great. Definitely want to rent it though.

Chicago - The Razzle-Dazzle Edition

Bleh. I didn't like it the first time around.

Cry Wolf (Unrated Widescreen)

Tis the season for crappy horror films.

ER - The Complete Fourth Season

Never got into it.

The Exorcism of Emily Rose (Special Edition, Unrated)

See, told ya.

Four Brothers (Widescreen Edition)

I did want to see this, but the preview just made it look terrible.

Gatchaman, Vol. 4: Collection

Still haven't finished watching Vol. 1.

The Great Raid (Widescreen Director's Cut)

Never heard of it.

Must Love Dogs (Widescreen Edition)

Normally I'm a Cusak fan, but this just didn't look all that interesting.

Party of Five - The Complete Second Season

Boy that Lacy Chabert was cute.

Rebound

Hahahahahahahaha......no.

Serenity (Widescreen Edition)

Possibly the best movie of the year. Buy it, you will not regret it.

-L

The Re-release List

Lotsa stuff hitting this week as well, but again only a few things I wouldn't mind having. Most of it will get added to the "rent" pile. Like this-

The 40-Year-Old Virgin (Unrated Widescreen Edition)

I enjoyed the hell out of Judd Apatow's TV work, and I've heard nothing but positive buzz for this, but I'm on-again-off-again with Carrell. I like him in Anchorman, but he annoys me so much in The Office I can barely watch it.

Airplane - The "Don't Call Me Shirley" Edition

I like the fact that some classics have been getting these re-releases. It sucks for anyone that already has them for sure, but hopefully it brings it a new audience as well. BTW, Circuit City has this for $12.99, which makes it very tempting to pick up.

Bad News Bears (Widescreen Edition)

What no "Unrated" edition? I'm disappointed. I may go ahead and buy this. Billy Bob and Linklater = Genius.

Big Bad Mama - Special Edition

Angie Dickinson and The Shat? Who could resist. The DVD has a commentrak, but Amazon fails to say who is on it, damn them.

Cowboy Bebop Remix 3

It's likely I'll buy the Remix set when all the volumes get released. They're doing a hell of a job with them.

Death Race 2000 - Special Edition

Yet another re-release. Of another movie I haven't seen, but probably should.

Dice: Season 1 Complete Collection
Dice: Season 2 Complete Collection

Never heard of it.

Dukes of Hazzard - The Complete Fifth Season

Ah Coy and Vance, and the season that doomed the show. Stupid network idiots. By the way, the movie stinks.

Family Bonds - The Complete First Season

Couldn't get interested in it. And who thinks it's a good idea to release reality shows on DVD?

Frank Miller's Sin City (Recut, Extended, Unrated)

Dammit.

Giant Robo - The Complete Collection

I don't know what the hell it is, but it comes with a giant purple eyeball. That makes it very intriguing.

Gilmore Girls - The Complete Fifth Season

You know, I liked the first season, but I really can't see myself picking up any of the rest. It's on TV ten times a day now, and I spoiled any suspense with all the relationships by watching one of the newer episodes. And knowing all that, I just kind of lost interest.

Girls on Bulls

Easily the best DVD title ever.

Godzilla - Final Wars

Must...resist...singing...

Harryhausen Gift Set (Scrapbook) (3pc) (W/Book)

It's just not a Harryhausen collection without Clash of the Titans.

The Island

I'm definitely renting this. It looks like big dumb fun.

Killadelphia

And here we have the funniest DVD title ever.

King Kong - Peter Jackson's Production Diaries

Man, you's really have to be a Jackson lover to want this. Man that just came out wrong.

Kronk's New Groove

I didn't much care for the orignal, outside of that particular character. Now, since Kronk was the only good thing, I'm tempted to check this out.

Miami Vice - Season Two

In case you missed the two full friggin days on Nick this weekend.

The Newsroom - The Complete First Season

Canadian TV, finally on DVD so we can enjoy it. This sounds pretty funny, I'll have to Netflix it.

Planetes, Vol. 4

Another show I'm Netflixing, been meaning to get into it for awhile now.

The Producers (Deluxe Edition)

Never seen this, but I liked the musical, and might like the new movie. I'll have to check this out.

Rambo, Vol. 5: Snow Raid
Rambo, Vol. 6: Face of Freedom

I don't even remember there being a cartoon.

Reba - Season 2

Gah, I hate this show.

Rock 'n Roll High School - Special Edition

Boy, these re-releases are pissing someone off for sure. This has got to be the biggest list of them yet.

Roll Bounce (Widescreen Edition)

Heard this was pretty good. Might rent it.

Scooby-Doo in Where's My Mummy?

I've enjoyed all the DTV Scooby movies so far, hopefully this one too.

The Simpsons - The Complete Seventh Season (Collectible Marge Head Pack)

Also available in a regular old school package. I'm getting the Marge to go with my Homer.

Tour of Duty - The Complete Series

Never watched it.

Valiant

I wanted to see this too.

The Yards - Director's Cut (Miramax Collector's Series)

Never saw it, but I wanted to.

-L

Finally

Some time off. Not much, but it's nice to be home before midnight for once. Seems this week all I did was work, and if I wasn't working I was spending money on Christmas. I haven't even finished my next column, due tomorrow. Time is definitely not on my side this week. BUT! It could be, and very soon. But maybe not

I'm applying for another (or maybe just a second) job that would be three 12 hr shifts a week. I'm crossing my fingers, but I have very little faith that I'll get it. I have an inside chance because I know one of the guys, but it's still a slim one. Starting pay would be fantastic, including paid vacations and other benefits. But, I'm not getting my hopes up.

I've got two discs of the Prisoner waiting to be watched, but I just haven't had the time. I'm hoping I will tomorrow afternoon, but that all depends on if I get the column done tonight. I also need to update my sidebar and throw out some links I haven;t had time to get to. So what's say we make this one massive ass post, complete with reviews?

Gunslinger's Revenge

It's been a while since I've seen an Italian western, probably not since I went out and bought the special edition of The Good, The Bad and the Ugly. I think that was almost a year ago. Veronesi (the director) doesn't have the eye or the dramatic sense that Leone brought to his pictures, but he's still pretty good. The plot is as simple as it needs to be; a gunslinger retires and returns to a family he's never known. When his past catches up to him him, his family and their friends put their lives on the line to stay together. It sounds like something Leone would have directed.

Harvey Keitel playes the old gunslinger, and while he isn't bad, I didn't buy it. The guy can play bad ass, he even pulled of a priest-you wouldn't-fuck-with role in From Dusk Til Dawn. But here, he just seems too tame. I was expecting "The Wolf" and I got a sheep. But, the man's still a great actor and he brings a lot to the film despite all of that. The rest of the "good guys" are filled with actors who's names I can barely pronounce, but they're all pretty good. Especially the young boy, Yudii Mercredi. The story relies a little too much on humour, but when it's provided by the town drunk, played by Jim van der Woude, it's at least funny. And then there's the star of the movie, David Bowie. I know what you're thinking, but the movie is worth a watch for this reason alone, nevermind anything else.

Bowie plays this odd British/Southern/Italian type of character, who's seems to be after Lowen (Keitel), just for the fame it might bring him. He's uniquely perfect, and probably the best description I can give is "The Joker of the Old West". He definitely steals the movie.

Veronesi's biggest problem is that he can't decide if he wants this to be a family film or a gritty, violent western. It could definitely do with some better editing, although the dub is almost spot on. Like I said, it's worth the time for Bowie's performance alone, and outside of that it's still a decent movie. Worth a rent, or even a buy if you find it cheap enough.

Blackball

Think of it as Dodgeball for our British friends. The movie got distribution in the U.S. through the National Lampoon's label, probably ensuring at least a few watchers. Which is a shame, because it's not a bad movie. Plot: Cliff Starkey is a bad boy from across the tracks. He's exceptionally good at bowls and would like nothing more than to represent his country nationally. The only thing stopping him? Ray Speight (played by James Cromwell) and his country club buddies, who want no part of this new rebellious kid and his disregard for tradition. Enter Rick Schwartz (Vince Vaughn), agent extraordinaare. He turns Starkey into the British Dennis Rodman, and suddenly bowls is the most popular thing on TV. Eh, I probably took too long explaining the plot there. Vaughn turns in a small but decent performance, and Cromwell is as good as he ever is. Paul Kaye plays Starkey as over-the-top as he should be, but still keeps him relatable and you can't help but root for him. Written by Tim Firth (Calendar Girls) and directed by Mel Smith (best remembered as the albino from Princess Bride), it's a good movie, something that's predictable, but still funny, mostly because of the British wit. It's not a bad way to spend a few hours, and probably worth the rental fee.

Hero at Large

I can't help but feel Sam Raimi cribbed the plot of this movie for parts of his Spider-Man films. Only, with a real hero instead of John Ritter. Ritter plays an actor looking for work who happens to foil a robbery while wearing a Captain Avenger costume. It send sales for the movie and it's merchandise through the roof and the producers (as well as the mayor) draft him to foil fake robberies and the like. Now Ritter must find a way out of the deception, get the girl of his dreams, and keep the hopes of the city alive.

I liked this, probably more than I should. It's a typical 80's flik, but it seems out of the mold for what Ritter normally chose. His character is far more competent (despite being out of work) than most roles you see him in. It's goofy and sensible, probably has too much heart, but the Hollywood/politics stuff rings as true now as it ever did. And there's a part of me that believes that Marvel/Sony/whoever as well as Warner would gladly do what the producers in this movie do if given the chance.

Just the Ticket

Ticket scalper Gary Starke (Andy Garcia) has a chance to finally get his big score and start a legitimate career for himself and his on-again/off-again girl Linda (Andie McDowell). Now he just has to dodge the cops and the new scalper that's moving in on his territory, and convince Linda that he's doing the right thing. Garcia is charming as hell here, but the movie is far too happy, even in the midst of despair. The real story is in the exploration of Starke's relationship to his runners, not in the star-crossed romance between him and the too-cute-to-exist McDowell. I lost interest about halfway through and screwed around on-line while the rest of it played out. The end looked promising, then everything just turned into typical, and I couldn't wait for it to be over. Unless you're just bored, I'd stay clear.

Jay & Silent Bob Do Degrassi

The three episode arc of Degrassi: The Next Generation that Smith and partner in crime Mewes guest starred in. The "reasons" are easily explained, Smith is filming his next movie (the brilliantly titled) Jay & Silent Bob Go Canadian, Eh, and is using Degrassi High as a location. The episodes do a good job of introducing newcomers to the world of Degrassi, and it's clear that the writers and director are familiar with Smith's world. His dialogue, as well as Mewes', is perfect, but after the first episode I was more interested in the kids and the parents on the show than I was in this fictional Smith/Mewes pairing. I know the season are getting released, so this may be another Netflix addition. Smith came back for another two episode stint in the 5th season, and I'm hoping those hit DVD as well, just to add to the collection. Anyway, the DVD does it's job. I picked it up just because, and now I'm genuinely interested in the show and its characters.

One Tree Hill-The Complete First Season

It was hard to like this show at first. The plot is convoluted; two half-brothers are thrown together on the varsity basketball team after years of animosity have separated the two. Believe me, that doesn'n't do it justice. But, it's well written, and most definitely well acted. There are times when it wears it's heart on it's sleeve, and there are times when it's as subtle as a baseball bat to the head, but even then the actors pull you through. Chad Michael Murray isn't someone I would feel comfortable in saying "he's good", but, really, he's not bad. Fortunately he has Moira Kelly, James Lafferty, and Paul Johannsen to carry him when he stumbles. The soap operatic twists and turns the story takes definitely hooked me, more so than any other teen drama to come along in forever. It beats the pants off all the other similar crap (except Smallville, but that's because it's friggin Superman) out there, and most of what's come before it. It's like 90210 with a Melrose make-over, only with better actors and writers. That saud, if it hadn't been $15, I'd never have bought the damn thing.

Loveless #2

The best thing I can say about this is, at least it's pretty. Azzarello goes the typical route with the plot and everything just seems convenient, but Frusin can draw the hell out of it. He tries to give it an epic feel, bringing in historical elements, but it just feels confined and claustraphobic. I liked the first issue okay, but this was just bad. Definitely my last issue.

Angeltown #1-2

Nate Hollis is a private dick hired to find a missing basketball player suspected of murder. As he investigates he finds nothing is what it seems. Blah. Chinatown this aint. Shawn Martinborough does a good job on art, infusing crime-noir with a bit of urban sprawl, but the writing is just disappointing. Predictable, especially if you've ever seen any crime-noir story, or even read one. Hell, the plot for Ford Fairlane is leaps and bounds over this. I only have the first two issues, so I didn;t get to see how the story played out, so maybe I'm judging it prematurley. But, after the first two issue, I didn't really care to see what happened next.

Identity Crisis #1-7

Hmmm...what can I say that hasn't already been said about this? Nothing. Well, apparently Brad Meltzer saw Presumed Innocent a few too many times as a kid (or even an adult), because if you take away the damn costumes, that's almost exactly what this is. You're probably better off watching that than reading this, unless you just have some desire to see you're favorite superheroes behave in immoral fashion (well, some of them). It reads like fan fiction that's not about what it says it's about. Meltzer seems to be commenting on the state of comics, and how "dark" they've become by using those very tools to make his case. If Watchmen were the beginning of it, and this were the end, then it would serve as a perfect bookend. It showcases just how horrible a good idea can become when it's used as a blanket for the entire damn universe. And I'm not so sure that's what Meltzer was trying to do. In fact, I'd bet my life it wasn't. Mostly though, I just didn't care. About any of it. The only good thing in all seven issues was Slade kicking the shit out of the League. I heart Deathstroke the Terminator.

Burnout Revenge

Hey, a video game! And damn is it a good one. If you can operate a controller, buy this game. Saying anything else would only ruin the experience. Buy it, rent it, just get it.

Man, there's been so much put up at the Galaxy that I don't even know where to start. Well, okay, how about my last column and a review of a damn good comic, Happy Birthday Anyway. After that, just go to the front page and read EVERYTHING ELSE!~!!!!!!!

And hey, ADD is back to blogging! Go say hey.

Mrs Tegan got name dropped in a comic. I'd be jealous if my name wasn't Logan.

I didn't make the list, but a few of my friends did.

There's more, but that's all I have time for right now. Maybe this weekend!

-L

Spacecataz

So, one of the DVDs I bought today was Aqua Teen Vol. 4. I popped it in when I got off work, just for background noise while I did some laundry. I clicked "Play All" on the menu, and guess what happened? It played all 13 episodes. AT THE SAME TIME. It might just be the funniest thing EVER. Definitely the funniest DVD feature ever.

I also got the second great Star Wars DVD to come out in the last, oh, well, however many years Star Wars DVDs have been coming out. Haven't opened it yet, but I loved the cartoon when I saw it originally, and I look forward to watching both seasons back to back.

I wanted to talk about other crap, but I had to pull a long shift at work, and I have to go in early tomorrow. Maybe that means I'll get off a bit early and will actually get to post some stuff. I've read a few books and watched a few movies, and I plan on writing a little something about them. So, stay tuned!! Plus, maybe a few links to some great sites.

-L

The "If I Were a Rich Man" List

Dammit, I need to be a millionaire. I'm happy to say I haven't bought a DVD in weeks (for myself at least), and actually I've gotten rid of quite a few thanks to a local shop that buys used ones. I'm well on my way to clearing up much needed shelf space and kicking the bad habit. I still haven't bought the new Seinfeld sets! Which I'm sure I'll pick up eventually...

But, looks like I'll be breaking down and buying at least two things this week, probably three though. You'll just have to guess which.

24 - Season Four

I stopped watching after Season 1. The death of his wife REALLY pissed me off. I'll eventually get around to Netflixing the rest of the seasons.

Aqua Teen Hunger Force, Vol. 4

My name is Shakezula, the mike ruler, the old schooler, you wanna trip, I'll bring it to ya. Maybe the funniest show on television. Man I cannot wait for the movie!

Batman - The Animated Series, Volume Four

I still haven't bought the second or third volume.

Cinderella Man (Widescreen Collector's Edition)

Also availabel in a single disc edition. I'll probably be renting this in the next week or so.

Combat - The Complete Series

My Dad would love this.

The Dukes of Hazzard (Unrated Widescreen Edition)

I'm still on the fence about this. I love the show for it's all out goofiness, but I don't think the movie captures it. It just looks like a slick Hollywood remake with no thought to the original premise, or even why it worked.

Everybody Loves Raymond - The Complete Fifth Season

I like the packaging on these sets. Other than that I'm not terribly interested in them at all.

Fantastic Four (Widescreen Edition)

Best Buy has an exclusive set that comes with a cd-rom of the first two years of the original comic. I'm debating on picking it up.

Full House - The Complete Second Season

My niece loves this show. I have no idea why...

Garfield and Friends, Vol. 5

Another show I wish I'd been buying. I'll catch up one day though.

Gargoyles - Season Two, Vol. 1

Good show, but I still haven't broken down and bought the first season.

Green Acres: The Complete Third Season

Here's a show I definitely won't be getting. I could never stomach it.

Kenny Vs. Spenny - Season One

I've seen this talked about, but I've never seen it on TV. Maybe I'll add it to the Netflix.

Land of the Lost: The Complete Series

Way before my time. And far too cheesy.

Law & Order - The Fourth Year

That makes it sound more important doesn't it? I like SVU.

M*A*S*H - Season Nine (Collector's Edition)

For the last freaking time, it's not a "Collector's Edition" if it's the ONLY edition.

MacGyver - The Complete Fourth Season

I loved it as a kid, but as an adult it seems, I dunno, really dumb.

The Magnificent Seven - The Complete First Season

There was a TV show? Geez, talk about milking the cow.

Millenium - Seasons 1-3

I assume this is just a re-list, packaging all three sets together.

Murder She Wrote - The Complete Second Season

I wish my Grandmother were still alive, this was he favorite show. She like MacGuyver and Matlock too.

Newlyweds - Nick & Jessica - The Final Season

Hahaha, definitely the punctuation at the end of that sentence. That title is perfect.

Rock Star: INXS The DVD

Pass.

The Rockford Files - Season One

Another show my Grandmother loved. Never seen it, I'll have to Netflix 'em.

Roseanne - The Complete Second Season

No syndication episodes in this set. They should really go back and fix the first set. I might at least watch them, if not buy them.

Roswell - Seasons 1-3

Another re-list, I have Season 1, wouldn't mind getting the others. I've liked what I've seen.

Saved By the Bell - The New Class: Season 6 & 7

The New Class lasted that long? Geez.

The Simpsons - Seasons 1-6

And another re-list! This one is actually a good deal though.

Star Wars - Clone Wars, Vol. 2

Well, at least somebody knows how to do Star Wars right.

Superman - The Animated Series, Volume Two (DC Comics Classic Collection)

Another show I haven't been buying! At least there's only two sets out. $40 will get both!

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles - Original Series (Volume 3)

Ah, this brings back some memories.

Thundercats: Season One, Volume 2

I just can't afford these.

The West Wing - The Complete Fifth Season

I can never get into political shows.

That's one big ass list.

I'll be back later with some actual content, got a few things to get out of my head.

-L

Talk About a Crisis

A friend of mine wanted to borrow some DVDs, so I printed him up a list of my collection. He took it home and he and his wife looked it over to see what they wanted to borrow first. Mostly they want some TV sets, which is cool. He comes back to me and asks me about the My So-Called Life set I have, and is it the real set or a copy. Then he asked me how much I paid for it. It's the real set, the whole series, and I think I paid about $40 for it. I ask why, he tells me to go home and check on eBay.

So, I get home and look it up. $200 folks. That's how much people are paying for the entire series. That's insane. Especially since Noggin airs the show (or, did air it, they might not be anymore, I dunno).

Now, I like the show, well enough to pay $40 just to have the whole thing, but there are almost no features on the set. I think the Pilot episode has a commentrak, and there's an interview maybe. That's very, very little, and the commentary was hardly that interesting, so much so that I don't really recall the episode it's on. So, I'm wondering, should I sell mine. I mean, I can copy the DVDs to VHS and have the shows to watch anytime I want. Eventually there may be a re-release since this wasn't even a studio set, but a BMG set, produced for their little movie club. And it may have some special features that would make me want to re-buy it, which would make my set almost worthless. I mean $200? People are crazy.

Even better, does it make me a horrible person to want to capitalize on the craziness of these people?

Probably. But $200? Isn't that like a 500% profit? Who could resist?

-L

Be Seeing You

Okay, so I've been watching The Prisoner. I'm waiting for Disc 4 to get to me, which means I've seen six episodes. One of them twice apparently. Which kind of pissed me off. What the hell is the point in putting the same episode of two discs? Oh well. So, six (five, whatever) episodes in, and here's what I think...

I like it. A lot. I don't love it, but it's a show that I think I could definitely watch over and over.

But, before I say anything else, let me say this. The DVD's suck. The audio is terrible and the picture looks slightly above VHS quality. I feel for all you fans that bought these, A&E screwed you. I doubt we'll ever see a good solid release of the series, but if one does ever come along, I will buy it. But, I won't buy these. I don't mind paying for anything ,as my DVD library shows, but if it's on DVD it should most definitely have good sound and picture. It doean't have to be digitally remastered and all that jazz, but at least good, you know? This is just terrible, so bad I'd rather listen to it through my mono TV than my stereo surround. So, A&E, do the fans a damn favor and release a good quality set, even if the price is a little steep (can't be much more though, the damn single discs are like $20 a piece...).

Back to the actual show...

In high school I took two years of Spanish (9th&10th grades) and it was okay, I didn't really get the language, which made it kind of difficult to learn, but I did okay. The in 11th grade I took Latin. After a month of that Spanish made a lot more sense. I could see the origins of the entire language, it was weird, back tracking like that. Watching the Prisoner is a lot like taking Latin after two years of Spanish.

It almost de-values every sci-fi type of series that I've ever seen. And I'm only three discs into a 10 disc series.

Seriously, you can trace the origins of probably every good sci-fi show, comic, movie, whatever, back to this. Not even just sci-fi stuff either. It's all very surreal. On top of that I've watched the first two discs of Lost as well,which is most definitely a spawn of The Prisoner. But I can talk Lost another time. The first things that came to mind were the Matrix, and oddly enough, Wolverine. The Matrix is supposedly an offshoot of Morrison's Invisibles series, which I have never read, but I can definitely see elements of this in it. And Wolverine...well, the entire Weapon X program, the memory wipes, almost everything we've been given about his adult past seems to be directly inspired by this show. Of course, there's more "fantasy" elements in Wolvie's past than in the Prisoner, but the basics are there. And I'm sure the Prisoner isn't a shining example of originality. Most likely McGoohan was inspired by something to create it, but it's clear how much it has inspired everything since.

Right now my mind is racing, I desperatley want to know the answers to all the questions of the show. Who is Number 1? What's the deal with the revolving Number 2's? Is it ever really explained? Does the show actually have a conclusin? Or am I going to get left hanging, with only more questions in the finale than answers? Why did he retire? What the hell is the big ball? Is he going to ever really escape? Or will they get their answers? Who are the good guys and who are the bad guys? It's all just one long series of questions!! But, as much as I want to know, I want to see it unfold for myself.

I'm fast on my way to becoming a major fan of The Prisoner, It's been suggested to me by many a person, but when ADD hit me up in email and told me I need to see these (after I asked for recommendations I should add), well, I knew he wouldn't steer me wrong. He never has before.

Scared some of you with that title there, didn't I (and if you haven't seen the show, well, you probably still don't get it)? Disc 4 can't get here fast enough dammit!

-L

The "It's Not Really a Hiatus" List

If nothing elkse I'll probably get this posted everyweek. More for myself than anyone else. It helps me keep track of what's out. So, let's get to it:

C.S.I. Crime Scene Investigation - The Complete Fifth Season

I'm addicted to CSI Miami now, last night's episode was pretty good.

Deuce Bigalow - European Gigolo

Because if the world needed anything, it was another Duece Bigalow.

Family Guy, Vol. 3

Eh, this just wasn't as good as the original stuff. I probably won't be getting it.

The Frighteners (Unrated Director's Cut)

This though, I'd definitely like to get. Good movie, really underrated.

The Great Muppet Caper - Kermit's 50th Anniversary Edition

I don't think I've seen this one. All the other Muppet movies get re-releases today as well.

Jurassic Park Adventure Pack

All three movies for around $15, the first is the only one really worth a damn though.

King Kong Vs Godzilla/King Kong Escapes

Even more Kong for the masses.

Legends of the Fall (Deluxe Edition)

Not sure what extras this has, but there it is.

The Mangler Reborn

Oh dear God, who's stupid idea was this?

March of the Penguins (Widescreen Edition)

Still haven't seen it. Maybe I'll rent it this weekend. The girlfriend really wants to watch it.

Mission Hill - The Complete Series

I think I'll have to go ahead and get this. I loved this show.

Mr. & Mrs. Smith (Widescreen Edition)

I'm on the fence about this flik. Heard it's bad, heard it's fun. Anyone see it?

The Mummy Collector's Set

Has all three of the Mummy films. Yes, apparently Scorpion King was a Mummy film...

The Muppet Christmas Carol - Kermit's 50th Anniversary Edition
The Muppet Movie - Kermit's 50th Anniversary Edition
Muppet Treasure Island - Kermit's 50th Anniversary Edition

See, told ya.

Murderball

Two documentaries in one week that I actually want to see. The world must be ending!

Project Runway - The Complete First Season

No freaking way am I ever watching this.

A River Runs Through It (Deluxe Edition)

It must be Brad Pitt Day.

Sky High (Widescreen Edition)

Never got around to seeing this. I'll probably buy it eventually.

Timeslip: The Complete Series

Never even heard of it.

Tremors Attack Pack

All four Tremors movies on 2 discs. I actually liked the first one.

There ya go, now get out there and consummate. I mean consume. Whatever.

-L

This hasn't really been a comics blog for a while...

The time off this week has had me thinking about the direction the blog is taking. Right now it's aimless, and that's not really what I wanted to do with it. My comics writing is mostly contained at CBG. Though I do occasionally talk here, but even then it's little snippets, nothing major.

This is pretty much an aimless post on an aimless blog right now.

I've been debating on a hiatus, like maybe a month or two, to work on some other stuff. Especially fiction writing, since I have a ton of ideas swimming in my head. I had wanted to join the Nano-whatever thing. The whole write a novel in a month thing, and didn't because I didn't think I'd have time to really get into it. I wish I had and just put the blog on hold.

I also need to be working more and spending less time on-line. Right now I spend like 5-6 hrs a day on line. That's just ridiculous. I could spend that writing about something, you know?

So, yeah, we'll see how the rest of Novenmber is going to play out. I may decide to suspend the blog until the first of the year, and only devote an hour or so a day to on-line stuff, like reading other blogs. That's not a knock at anyone out there either. I love all the sites I visit, too much in fact. I bet most of you get 2-3 hits a day from me just because I check to see if you updated or not. (Yeah, yeah, I know about the feeds and subscribing and stuff, but that takes the excitement out of it for me!)

Anyway, I'm just rambling. The end of the year always makes me feel like this. Like I'm just wasting time, doing nothing important. The good news is I got most of my Xmas shopping done.

My Dad's going to pass out when he sees the western Ghost Rider set I bought for him. I can't wait.

-L

Gobble Gobble (or, 25 Things I'm Thankful For)

Man...can I do 25? Let's find out. Fair warning this could get geeky and/or slightly weird.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

20.

21.

22.

23.

24.

25.

-L

It'a Gonna be a Looooong Week

Some family came in from out of town, and I've got a column due, and a ton of reviews to get done, so this week will be very, very light posting wise here. Just a warning in advance. For all you millionaires out there, Seinfeld Season 5&6 come out tomorrow, I won't be able to get them, Best Buy has an exclusive bonus disc if anyone is buying them.

-L

The Current King of Kicking Ass

Is Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.

Possibly the best of the bunch so far, and one of the best movies I've seen all year. Do yourself a favor this week and go check it out, well worth whatever the admission price.

Oh, and I hope everyone likes the new sidebar pic. It makes me laugh.

-L

Son of Jor-El, Kneel Before...the Ford Fusion?

Like Tom, I found the hour long car commercial that was last night's Smallville a bit much at times. BUT! Overall the episode was sweet. It's interesting watching these with someone who has no knowledge of Superman outside of his various filmed incarnations.

I knew that Prof. Fine was evil, my girlfriend did not. I knew that all this was being done by/through Zod, she did not. I still maintain, as does my local shop owner, that Miller and Gough are pulling one over on us by using Terrance Stamp as the voice of Jor-El. I think he's Zod. Maybe I'm wrong though.

The fight scene rocked.

-L

Wednesday Links, On Thursday No Less

Yeah, I didn't get to these yesterday, apologies.

New Loose Staples is up. Thanks to the always wonderful Chris Hunter for some quick last minute edits. Some unforseen incidents happened to have to change the column. So, if it reads like it was put together all to quickly, that's my fault. I'll talk more about that later.

Look, everyone's favorite remake, Battlestar Galactica got renewed for Season 3. Funny story, I used to know a kid named Adama. Okay, it's not that funny.

Thomas Jane will be in a mutant movie. I bring this up only to say this: Remember that time he was on Arrested Development? It rocked. That show rocked. Letter to Fox and everyone else who didn't watch it: You suck.

Will Arnett has a movie coming. Sweet.

You asked, Warner answered: Teen Titans Season 1, The Batman Season 1, Batman Beyond Season 1, JLU Season Whatever.

Also, Star Trek Animated Series and Scooby/Dynomutt news.

Confidential to Alan Daffin: Dune-The Extended Cut. You gotta scroll down a little bit. It'll be out in January.

Good buddy Patch is selling some comics dirt cheap. I bought some, Brian Wood bought some, you should too!
One man's thoughts about one of the funniest films ever made.

Richard Donner directed the Bananna Splits. Wow.

Shooting off your shaft in a cave.

Laura's got Aquaman news at her unofficial site.

Sony hates you. This is insane. The fact that the uninstaller is worse is even crazier.

Today is The Great American Smoke Out. I'm all for everyone quitting smoking, and I do appreciate the fact that I can breathe easy in public places, but! I'm in the small minority against bans in privately owned businesses, like restaurants and bars and such. Smoking is not illegal, whether it should be or not is beside the point, and if I want to allow adults to do this very legal thing in my establishment is my business. Not the governments. Anyone can choose not to frequent my establishment. So, yeah, I'm against smoking bans.

All-Star Superman, in eight words. I'll find out tomorrow I suppose.

The Brownies. Interesting name for an awards group. I might actually get around to voting.

James Meely has a good idea. Hulk/Godzilla is definitely a missed opportunity, especially since Marvel once had the Godzilla license. So, email Dark Horse and Marvel and tell them to make it possible! Also, Hulk/Kong would be kick ass.

The Daiy Burn is no more! In its place, Superheroes, etc. Man that's a great name.

The Saliva Syndrome.

Feel like Lying in the Gutters?

Hey, look, no subtext.

I must have this.

What Roger Green watches.

All Star Superman works on women. Patch is my hero.

An interview with the people behind one of the best damn comics I've read in a while.

A look at some Kurisawa films.

RIP-Eddie Guerrero.

-L

I Forgot a Few

Seems I missed some DVD listings...

Angel - Seasons 1-5
Buffy the Vampire Slayer: The Chosen Collection

The Buffy set is actually a great deal, the Angel set not so much. Also, the Buffy set is limited, so if you want it, you should buy it ASAP. I've been debating. I'll probably pass tho.

Fantasy Island - The Complete First Season

De DVD, boss!

The Golden Girls: A Lifetime Intimate Portrait Series

For Mitch Hurwitz completists.

Happy Endings

I actually wanted to see this.

The Monty Python Box Set

Pretty good deal.

Rurouni Kenshin - TV Series Season One

Could never get into it.

The Yogi Bear Show - The Complete Series

How did I miss this?!?!

The Harold Lloyd Comedy Collection Vols. 1-3

For those who like a little silence with their comedy.

And, according to good buddy/former boss Alan Daffin, they left a movie out of the Ultimate Star Trek Collection. He says it was the best one, and I agree wholeheartedly. For $2500 they could have included Galaxy Quest, you know? It kicks the crap out of all the rest.

-L

The List of Stuff My Dad Will Watch

Charmed - The Complete Third Season

Your Shannen Doherty fix for the week.

Cheers - The Complete Seventh Season

I'd love to have all of these, but dammit I just can't afford them.

The Flintstones - The Complete Fourth Season

Never much cared for this show, my Dad loves it though.

Frasier - The Complete Seventh Season

Only three more to go until the whole series is out there.

Friends - The One with All Ten Seasons (Limited Edition)

Also, Season 10 is available seperately. If you like Friends, this one is a steal at only $200, that's 20 bucks a season.

Home Movies - Season Three

Great show. I still haven't gotten Season 2 yet.

The Huckleberry Hound Show - Vol. 1

Oh mah darlin, oh mah darlin, oh mah darlin Clementine! I used to love the Huck Show. Not sure how much I'd like it now, but this brings back some fond memories.

King Kong, Vol. 1 (Animated TV Series)
King Kong, Vol.2 (Animated Series)

Lots of Kong coming down the pipe in the next few months.

Madagascar (Widescreen Edition)

I still haven't seen this. Maybe I'll rent it this weekend.

Man Show:Complete 4th Season

This used to be a great show, the first season was wonderful, but it just kind of wore on you after a while.

Murder One - The Complete Second Season

America just loves it's crime/drama's doesn't it?

Oklahoma! (50th Anniversary Edition)

The Broadway version starring Wolverine is also available on DVD. May be my favorite musical next to Grease.

Scrubs - The Complete Second Season

Besy Buy has another exclusive. Dammit, I thought I was gonna get out of this week unscathed. Gotta buy this though.

The Skeleton Key (Widescreen Edition)

This is out already. Man, I really wanted to catch this in the theatres.

Note to self: Sarcasm never works on-line.

The Sound of Music (40th Anniversary Edition)

Never seen it.

Stealth (Two-Disc Widescreen Edition)

Anyone who needed something for Mike S. for X-Mas, here ya go. He'll love it, trust me.

That '70s Show - Season 3

My Dad will be happy, he loves this show. Which is good because it means I don't have to buy it!

Three's Company - Season Five

Poor John Ritter. If only they wrote the no talent females out, this would have been brilliant.

Tru Calling - The Complete Second Season

Another show my Dad liked.

The Ultimate Star Trek Collection

Now, where'd I put that spare $2,500 I had lying around. You must click that link, it's INSANE!

I'm out, peace!

-L

Geeky Things I Bought for a Dollar This Weekend

Since the Falcons blew it (and I called it, just like2 that, all week at work), I don't even want to talk football. So, as the title suggests:

Captain America



Made in the year of my birth, proving once again how great 1979 truly was. I have vague memories of this, and I'm sure it's as horrible as ever. Can't wait to watch it!



Not as valuable as it once was, but still, for a measley buck it was a steal. Damn that's a beautiful cover.

Speaking of...



Was never a huge Legion fan, but that Mike Grell cover really caught my eye. It's actually a double cover, but I couldn't find a scan of both halves. I friggin love Mike Grell.



That's another goodie, done by Garcia Lopez and Dan Adkins. Just seeing those two squaring off makes me want to read it.



Got #1-4 of this, which I wasn't certain I owned. Plus, I've never read 'em. Here's a question for all of you fanboys with issue #1: On about page 16 there's a helluva shot of Galactus taking off. In my issue the big guy is miscolored, what about in yours? Just curious if it was a widespread thing, or if I just have some stupid deformed copy. Maybe Mike could help me out with that. What says you comic guru?

And no new Arrested tonight, how much did that blow?!?!

-L

Your Pic of the Week

Fox says it isn't cancelled, but they're a bunch of lying assholes, so we'll see.

Thursday Pot-purry

Lots of stuff, so lets get right to it. Let's start off with some links.

New review up over at the Galaxy, Chocolate and French Fries. Go, read it.

Then head over to Kolchalkaholic and read ADD's review of Converstaion #2. I wish I had half the passion for comics he did.

Bluesman #1&2 are now available through diamond for preorder. The codes are NOV053053 and NOV053053. They're coming through NBM Publishing this time. You can read more about it at the Bluesman Project. And, if you want you can order them at a pretty good discount through the DCBS (that's Discount Comic Book Service). So, go do it. Maybe, just maybe I'll have a few to give away in January....but order a copy of each anyway!

I want this on a shirt dammit.

Ian's got an overview of Alan Moore's latest attack on DC. Well, attack isn't the right word really. I wish him good luck, it's an impossible battle.

Eleven rules for better comic storytelling. I don't agree with all of them, but it's got some good guidelines.

Painkiller Jane returns, with Quesada on board too. Wow, bit of a conflict of interest isn't it? Eh, probably not.

This is just beautiful.

Dave gets Brave. And Bold. Now I want to see that Giant Robot Batman Sentinal thing.

Check out Greg's novel. I'm going to read it eventually, I swear.

Dial B look at the original Outsiders. I had no idea about the Freaks connection.

Lewis Black on the Weather Channel. Cool.

Wrestling and superhero comics, two great tastes that taste great together. Nah, two entertainment mediums that are fast circling the drain. Steven Grant kicks ass.

Need more gay in your life? We all do. I dig the Henry Rollins Superman...not that there's anything wrong with that.

Home Simpson is Deathstroke, the Terminator. Scrolling required.

Better than Tango & Cash. IMPOSSIBLE. Still, I do want to see it.

There's gonna be a Blade TV show. Cool. Nice to know at least on cast member for Over There will be back to work soon.

More Animaniacs DVD news. Sweet!

Want to really get ahead at your job? Here's what you need to know.

A few new Mutliplex strips are up. It's some funny, funny stuff.

More comic related TV/movie news and rumors. I like the idea of an Aquaman show, if they do it right. I enjoyed the Smallville episode.

Need some movie trailers to get through the day? Try Underworld: Evolution, The Fountain, The Producers, Curious George, Final Destination 3, and of course, Harry Potter.

Now, how about some reviews?

Cable & Deadpool #22

The mystery surrounding the Dominus Objective deepens. I'm dying to know who's behind it all. Overall this issue was pretty darn confusing though, even for me. Pretty to look at, but just filler for the trade.

Darkseid Vs. Galactus: The Hunger

Got this one free from Ed Cunard. Much appreciated Ed. Not bad, I don't know much about Kirby's Fourth World characters, so a lot of it is lost on me I'm sure. But, the thought of Galactus eating Apokolips amuses me to no end. Actually pretty solid work from Byrne, who I almost always loathe. Glad he didn't try to explain the crossing of the universes, he just runs with it. Not bad at all.

Drax the Destroyer #3

More filler for the eventual trade. This issue just sees Drax resurrecting himself after getting killed in the last ish. Nothing else happens, what a downer. The art is growing on me though.

Solo #1

Sent to me via ADD. Damn I wish I'd been buying all of these issues. Not quite as good as the Darwyn Cooke ish, but still pretty good. Loved the Catwoman cover, as well as the story, playful and sexy. The Supergirl story was fun as well. I could take or leave the rest, but worth it for those two. Oh, and it looks beautiful.

Tales of the TMNT #17

Don, Raph and Casey end up in an alternate dimension where giant bugs rule. I friggin love this book. Good script, great art, and a story that you can just sit back and enjoy. No continuity problems, no drag-along storylines, just good old-fashioned comics. One of the best of the series, and the cover for newxt ish looks exciting.

Y, the Last Man #39

Brian K. Vaughan is such a tease! Damn him. I was looking forward to finally seeing Beth and Yorick reunited, and now it looks like we're gonna wait a while longer. Still, he sets up a new mystery with the Doc and her girlfriend, Yorick's about to get pexposed in more ways than one, and it's got one hell of a cliffhanger ending.

Grand Theft Parsons

Quirky dramedy about the death of Gram Parsons. Johnny Knoxville probably doing his best work to date as Parsons friend and road manager. After Parsons dies, Knoxville steals the body to fulfill a promise made between friends. Chasing him are Gram's father and ex-girlfriend. Yes it's based on a true story, and yes it's silly, but it's actually really good. Certainly not laugh out lod hilarious nor an emotional rollercoater, just a solid movie through and through. Worth a rent if you see it.

Whew, okay, I'm out.

-L

DVD Quickies 11/09/05

The Adventures of Superman-The Complete First Season

The fact that this set even has special features amazes me. The Kellogg's commercials are a hoot and the short film is neat, especially if you like westerns. The commentraks are a little boring, mostly repeating the same info, but it's hard not to get as excited as the commentators when they do get into the episodes. Fortunately there are only a handful of them. As for the episodes, well, they're wonderful. This puts the previously viewed Lois & Clark to shame. Like one of the traks says, these are filmed like mini-movies. Full of action, drama, suspense and humour. I can't believe Jack Larson is still alive, AND he's gonna be in Superman Returns. How cool is that? Excellent, excellent series, can't wait to get the rest of 'em!

Deadwood

Despite a glaring historical innacuracy, a pretty good series. Took me a few episodes to get into it, and I was disappointed in the season ender, but all-in-all I enjoyed it. Ian McShane brings a lot to Al Swearengen, making him both villianous and likable at the same time. He reminds me of Destro from GI Joe (seriously) in that he might be the greatest criminal around, but he's surrounded himself with the least intelligent beings on the planet, ensuring he never really succeeds. I can't see buying this ($75? Not for so few episodes, no way), but I'll happily Netflix any other season releases, and since my girlfriend has HBO, maybe I'll be able to catch the new ones.

Without a Trace

Borrowed from a friend and addictively watched over a few days. Who knew Bruckheimer could produce something so great. The concept never got old over the 20 some odd episodes, and the acting is excellent. LaPaglia at his best probably. The guest stars they manage to bring on are scene stealers, and the second Charles S Dutton episode damn near brought me to tears. Recommended renting, or if you've got a spare $15 and are a Sams Club member, go buy it, it's a steal at that price.

D.E.B.S.

I went into this move expecting it to be goofy, and it was. But, it's the kind of movie you just have to love because of its goofiness. A group on teen prep school girls are recruited to be some of the nations top spies. The team leader and the world's greatest criminal become entangled in a lesbian romance that sends their worlds spiraling into eachother. So out there it's brilliant. If you see it, give it a shot.

The Longest Yard

Simply put, it just doesn't work. It's not bad, but it's nowhere near good. It lacks anything in the way of iconic imagery you find in most sports films and the actors aren't used to any of their potential. In fact they're played so dumb that it may have made me dumber just watching the. The script could have used some massive rewrites and it felt extremely rushed, like it was filmed in about three days. Unless you're just aching to be bored, avoid it.

Dear Frankie

For years Lizzie has encoraged her deaf son to write to his unknown father, after which she retrieves the letters and writes back in the guise of his dad. When a classmate challenges the existence of Frankies pop, Frankie bets his stamp collection on the fact that his dad will come see him Lizzie must scramble to come up with a father for the boy to finally meet. Bittersweet, heartwarming and very emotional. One of the most honest films I've seen all year. Taking such a mixed-up premise and unwinding it both through they eyes of mother and son lets you experience it from both sides of the story. The performances are astounding, especially from Jake McElhone and Gerard Butler. Definite buy when I find it on sale.

The Gilmore Girls-The Complete First Season

Just watched the first disc because the Prisoner disc Netflix sent me was friggin broken. So, now I have to wait to start watching it until they can get me a replacement disc. This show is addicting though. Mainly because of the uber-hot Lauren Graham, but the occasionally witty dialogue is infectious at times. I'll hopefully finish this off by the time I get that replacement disc.

-L

The List of Things I Can't Afford

The Adventures of Swiss Family Robinson - The Complete Series

Think of it as "Lost-The Original".

Beavis & Butt-head, Vol. 1 - The Mike Judge Collection

I am the great cornholio. I need TP for my bunghole. Ahhh, how we love Mike Judge.

Blue Collar TV - Season 1, Vol. 1

I think the show got canned. Which is definitely a good thing.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Two-Disc Deluxe Edition)

Also available in a single disc (reead: cheaper) edition.

Chip 'n Dale Rescue Rangers - Volume One Collection

Man I loved this show!

Christmas with the Kranks

Wal-Mart actually had this one on shelves last week. The sneaky bastards.

A Different World - Season 1

Ah, come see a young Marissa Tomei hone her acting skills.

DuckTales - Volume One

Maaaaan, I really want this!!

Dungeons & Dragons 2 - Wrath of the Dragon God

It can't be worse than the first film. It just can't.

Edward Scissorhands (Collectible Tin Anniversary Edition)

Cool.

Five Mile Creek - The Complete First Season

Never heard of it.

Jay and Silent Bob Do Degrassi (Unrated)

I'll end up buying this eventually, if only to keep the collection complete.

Jeopardy - An Inside Look at America's Favorite Quiz Show

Isn't this why God gave us Roger Green?

Jumanji (Deluxe Edition)

Two-disc special edition in a nifty little box.

The Kingdom - Series One (Riget)

Stephen King's "inspiration" for Kingdom Hospital.

Lone Wolf and Cub

Yeah, I definitely can't afford this.

Mutant X - The Complete Third Season

It's taken 'em this long to collect the third season?

Mystery Science Theater 3000 Collection, Vol. 8

I really wish I'd been buying these.

The Partridge Family - The Complete Second Season

Bleh.

Remington Steele - Season Two

Sigh, poor Pierce, Bond no more.

Space Above and Beyond - The Complete Series

Never watched it, but I'll probably Netflix it.

Tales From Avonlea - The Complete First Season

Another Disney show I've never heard of.

What's New Scooby-Doo, Vol. 7 - Ghosts on the Go

I wish this was coming out is season sets.

Well, I'm off to sell my soul to get some dough, so I can buy Chip & Dale...

-L

What Was That About His Passing Game?

So, it wasn't perfect, and truth be told we gave Miami every chance they needed to win, but Atlanta is now well on its way to back-to-back winning seasons for the first time ever.

If you look at the stats for the game we dominated Miami and you wouldn't think the game was as close as it was. But, if you watched it you know a few botched offensive plays are what gave Miami what they did get. We can thank our defense for the win.

Vick looked really good, especially with the hits he was taking. Miami has always struck me as a dirty defensive team, and today just solidified that. No wonder they're the most penalized team in the NFL. If I was Marino i'd be ashamed to show my face in the same stadium as that team. I really wanted a call on the guy that picked Dunn up by his jersey and then slammed him back down to the ground...well after the whistle I should add. Talk about unsportsman like...

Still, we won, and that's what matters. We've got two big obstacles in the division though, Tampa and Carolina, who really showed their stuff today. Too bad I couldn't watch both games.

How about that Tomlinson guy? 4 TDs, that's just awesome.

And how bout them Bengals?!?! Who'd have thought they'd be 7-2 halfway through the season? Not me, that's for damn sure.

Looks like the Vikings should have lost old Daunte about eight games ago...

You just gotta love the Giants right now. Eli is looking up considerably from last year.

And the Pack starting the season 1-7? It's like we're in the Twilight Zone this year.

I managed to miss what loud mouth Owens said about his team, but I could care less. The way they're playing this year and the fact that they even signed the guy just means they deserve it. Way to fuck up a good team Andy!

The fact that the Pats are playing less than stellar ball this year makes me think it's Peyton's time to shine, if nothing else I hope they light up that scoreboard tomorrow night. AND block a few kicks while they're at it. The Colts deserve it. I just hope Atlanta doesn't wind up going against them in the big one this year.

Anyone catch the Simpsons? You know, they could've changed that World Series joke, since the damn thing ended before it could really get going. Even the Halloween specials don't feel fresh anymore....

Oh well, at least we get an hour long Arrested tomorrow night. Watch or I'll come to your house and kill you.

Maybe...

-L

Spoiler Warning

Too late!




That's the last page to Infinite Crisis #1

I was recently reading through some old book and came across The Kingdom, the followup to Kingdom Come by Waid and Ross. Unfortunately I don't have a scan (yet), but on the last page of The Kingdome #2 we see the Golden Age Supes and these words:

"For all he'd done he deserved Heaven...not prison. But now, at long last, he knows this isn't the jail he once believed it to be. Now he knows there's a door. There's a door, even if he's not going to use it. Not today anyway."

Well, I'll be damned. Now, since I don't follow DC and have just read Inf. Crisis #1 I have no clue if this has anything to do with that. I barely remember The Kingdom, so I'm not even sure what all that was in reference to, but I plan on rereading it soon. But, if you've been following all the DC stuff and you have this, take a look at that last page. Maybe I'll get a scan of it later today.

-L

Desert Island Post

Okay, sorry for the lack of posting this week, but babysitting and working have pretty much gotten out of hand, with me pulling double shifts on both, but hopefully next week will be slower in that department. Well, at least with the babysitting for little bro.

So, simce this will likely be my last post of the week, I thought I'd make it at least a decent one. After this I have to send off a review I promised a few days ago, but this is the first chance I've had to sit for a while and HTML it up. But, that's not what this post is about.

It's idiotic to think that any of us would ever be stuck on a deserted island. And if we were I'm sure there would be other things to worry about than entertainment. But, we all like to have out little lists. Things we would have to take with us. So, if I were Napoleon and they were exiling me to some island, with only precious hours to choose the things I would take, this is what they would be, assuming I had some of the comforts of home. Yes like electricity, a TV and a DVD player.

Comics

You'd want to keep it essential, so no time to grab my vast X-Force collection, I'd just get bored with it after the first day...

Watchmen

This one's an easy pick. Not only is it superheroes, but it's enthralling. The few times I have re-read it I've loved it just as much as the first time. Doesn't hurt that it's kind of lengthy either. There's plenty to think about, me and my volleyball can have long discussions about the importance of the book.

Blankets

Also lengthy, also important, but not a capes book. This one would keep me in touch with the world I've been taken away from. If I got bored I could act it out like a play with said volleyball.

The Acme Novelty Library HC

Just got this one not too long ago from ADD. It's brimming with content. I've barely scartched the surface in reading it, so at least it would be new. I don't think I've ever seen a book that was so carefully crafted in my life.

The Castaways

Fitting, no? And if I had time I'd squirrel away the piece of original art sent to me by Pablo. It's hands down the greatest thing I've ever recieved, and I'm eternally grateful for it. As far as I'm concerned Rob and Pablo are the best there is.

Bone: The One Volume Edition

I've only read the first two collections in color, but having the whole book to go through carefully and methodically would be wonderful.

I'd take more, but I need time to gather other stuff too. Like...

DVD's

This is a tough one. I'd have to limit myself to just two TV sets and three movies. That just makes it seem impossible, but here goes.

Shawshank Redemption

I've said it before, but this movie is all about hope in the face of impossible obstacles. It's one of the greatest films ever made and I don't think I could live the rest of my life without seeing it, that alone might kill me.

Casablanca

Probably the second greatest film ever made. Doesn't hurt that the DVD is chock full of excellent material, like a Bugs Bunny parody, radio broadcast, an episode of a spin-off TV show and so much more. This movie has it all, and so does the DVD.

Rio Bravo

One of my favorite films ever. Watching it brings back memories of my childhood and more importantly my Grandmother. Like Shawshank, never seeing it again might be what kills me.

Firefly-The Complete Series

Might be the best TV show ever. On an island all alone, these guys would be my best friends.

Sports Night-The Complete Series

One of the funniest shows ever made, and it satifies two loves. Comedy and sports. Good acting and great dialogue, just like Firefly, only not. Definitely can;t leave home without it.

Man there are so many that could have been on that, but if I had to just take five, those would be the five.

Books

Well, haven't read that many in the last few years, but I think I know five I'd want to take...

The Talisman

Not sure how this holds up, but when I read it years ago I loved the hell out of it. A boys journey through another world to save his mother. Just the kind of escapism I'd need.

America: The Book

Hilarious, and I'd need all the humour I can get. No matter how many times I see the jokes they still make me laugh. Plus, it's like a svhool book, if I ever came back at least I would have learned something.

The Encyclopedia of Mythology

Not sure who published this, but I love it. It would be another type of escapism, and kind of superhero-ish. I love this stuff.

The Bible

Well, at least it would take me a while to read it. Maybe with all that time I could begin to understand it. Doesn't hurt that there's a few good stories in it either. Hopefully it would be an easy to read version.

The Great Movies

Ebert's book would help fill the void left by losing so many of my favorite films.

Not bad, I don't see myself getting bored very quickly by these, as long as I read them slowly and carefully.

CD's

Another toughie...

Guns N Roses- Apetite For Destruction

I'd need this just to get my blood going in the morning. Raw, powerful, unapologetic, balls to the wall rock. It's the best rock album ever.

Counting Crows-August and Everything After

An essential. It's bittersweet, much like my situation would be, but overall very hopeful. It moves me like very few records can.

John Oszajca-From There To Here

Fun and poignant, Johnny O is one of my favorite musicians, and since right now this is his only album, it has to come with me. Can't live without it. It's been in rotation on my CD player since i bought it five years ago.

Bubba Sparxxx-Deliverance

One of the best rap albums ever, and a constant reminder of my home and my roots.

Eminem-The Eminem Show

The best rap album ever. Period.

Lots of stuff I'd include if I had more space, but these are probably my five favorite albums ever.

Hmmm...not really much else to cover. I suppose video games would be another category, but that's easy. Take the X-Box and have about 30 games on the HD to play forever, including discs that have every NES and Atari game ever made. I'd never be bored.

So, yeah, that's my desert island wish list. What's yours?

-L

The List is With You

Well, we all know what came out today, I'm curious as to what every other studio decided to set up against it.

21 Jump Street - The Complete Fourth Season

Slightly before my time.

The Adventures of Pete & Pete - Season 2

I know a few people are happy about this, I've never watched it though.

The Brady Bunch - The Complete Fourth Season

Blah, I hate the Brady's.

Fame - The Complete First Season

There was a TV show?

Hearts Afire - The Complete Second Season

Augie says this show sucked. Never seen it.

Jar Jar Binks: The F True Hollywood Story

30 bucks? It's twelve minutes lonmg! I'd like to see it, but no way I'm spending that.

Little House on the Prairie - The Complete Season 9

This show lasted this long, but Arrested Development can barely get three.

Office Space - Special Edition with Flair (Widescreen Edition)

Best Buy has an exclusive boxed set. Guess what it includes? Yeah, i've gotta get that.

The Outer Limits (The New Series) - Season One (1995)

Do do do do do do do do....wait, that's the Twilight Zone...

The Perfect Man (Widescreen Edition)

Did this even come to theatres?

Sex and the City - The Complete Series (Collector's Giftset)

I wouldn't spend fifty on this, much less $200.

Star Trek Enterprise - The Complete Fourth Season

Wow, the whole series (was this the last season?) in less than a year, Trekkies have waaaay too much money.

Star Wars, Episode III - Revenge of the Sith (Widescreen Edition)

Wal-Mart has an exclusive bonus disc.

Comic Book Pajama Party

This sounds interesting. Couldn't really find any info on it though.

-L