Summer is six weeks deep- and I'm drowning in the new and old alike. Here's the recap thus far:
Memorial Day, I went HOME for what felt like the last time- as we know it. The ghosts were quiet - But the realization it wasn't so much "over and out" but more of stay tuned, because now we can all look at things from a new perspective.
My newly transplanted friend and I were walking from a morning of pancakes and perfect orange juice, both laughing, what are we doing here? Two years ago, this wasn't even in the realm of possibility - Two years ago I was on a road trip, two years ago was the last time I was a teacher! A few weeks ago, those 9th graders I taught that first year GRADUATED- The road trip was supposed to give me direction. We drove West and East and South and North - but now we are all WEST and more are coming. More visitors, more transplants, more, more, more.
-I'm always ready to be new again-
But, am I? Are we?
Last night, I saw Death Cab For Cutie play at the Hollywood Bowl (if you've never been, go, to any concert). You sit, with a bottle of wine, under the pale sky, watching the sun set over the mountains, with the Hollywood sign perched high in the distance, over looking the stage. Oh, and they were playing with the L.A. Philharmonic, so when Benjamin Gibbard came out with just his acoustic guitar to play "I Will Follow You Into the Dark" and the orchestra joined in, it was okay, okay to be a little emo (finally). Not to be matched of course, by the rousing, delicate rendition of "Transalanticism" with orchestra, culminating with FIRERWORKS over the dark pitched blue night sky, on every down beat. Correction, this is when it was okay to be emo, just this once.
Now, my nostalgia is on hold- why are we so nostalgic? I have San Diego, this weekend I have San Fransisco, then LA again, with more visitors, more, more, more.
We are building a new empire, and it's finally feeling like home.
I will be protective of what's important.
What's so few and far between.
The bomb is about to go off. Ka-boom
Monday, July 6, 2009
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Because there's a 100 other things I should be spending my time on...
The Facebook "how well do you know me quiz" will surely destroy more friendships then help. Remember when MYSPACE introduced the top 8 and we were forced to narrow down all our friends to the 8 we could display for the world to see. I know I learned a lot about who I know business caring about anymore. Needles to say, I too was swept in the narcissistic styling's of creating a quiz about me. And I didn't make it easy- I purposely put answers that may have been right at one point, but if the person really thought it through, should realize that these were about here and now. I'm a complicated person. Deal with it. The following is the quiz with explanations to the answers. So, if you got a 50% you probably should have received more points for thinking - and coming up with logical choices- but again, I'm complicated.
1) Which of the following institutes of higher learning have I attended?
a) Ithaca College
b) Hofstra University
c) SUNY Stony Brook
d) University of Southern California
e) WTF all of the above?!
The easiest one- even though I rarely talk about my first school, Ithaca, the fact it's the only question with an E choice should have been a give away.
2) Which song have I never sang at Karaoke?
a) How Soon is Now?
b) Layla
c) A Whole New World
d) Santa Baby
This was an unfair question. The point was to see if anyone would believe that I would sing "A Whole New World" and "Santa Baby" which I did in duets. (Please note I spent most of Christmas day practicing for "Santa Baby" on Xmas night- I have sang "Layla" by Derek and the Dominos, but to be fair, I should have put another more random song as the correct answer besides The Smith's "How Soon is Now"- I've never sang it, but there's no real reason why I haven't. I should have used a Creed song, or a DMB song, so basically if you picked a or b you're cool with me.
3) Where did I work for half a shift, and quit after my first lunch break?
a) Borders Books
b) Blockbuster Video
c) Old Navy
d) Smithtown High School East
Come on, Old Navy! They put those stupid walkie talkie ear pieces on me and watched me from above, telling me to go up to customers and ask them what size they were looking for- it sucked. So I went to get lunch at Boston Market, had a fabulous meal, and decided to quit when I went back.
4) I was once in the greatest two piece band of all time- what was it called?
a) Cloud 8
b) The Screwbeagles
c) Out, Out, Brief Candle!
d) Visor
Again, this is one of those it depends when we hung out kind of questions. But really, The Screwbeagles, my faux Ska band from high school was a three piece- Cloud 8 was just the name of a band I never formed- Out,Out, was the name of Michael Behr and my acacore- an acapella hard core band (sans the Brief Candle) leaving the obvious choice Visor- in which me and Michael Cassidy actually wrote 3 songs, and performed live in front of 4 people.
5) Who is my favorite French New Wave actress?
a) Zoey Deschanelle
b) Anna Karina
c) Madame Bovary
d) Emily Blunt
If you didn't get this one, then you are just lazy. Only one of the choices was a French New Wave actress, and she was PERFECTION, ugh especially in black and white - those eyes, those lips, that face, too bad she's French and no longer looks like she did in the early 60's. And it's too bad I'm not Godard, shooting her. (with a camera not a gun) Also a quick google on any of the others should show you that Madame Bovary is the name of a French novel, Zoey Deschanelle, though beautiful and talented, is a modern actress engaged to the dude from Death Cab... and Emily Blunt is British.
6) Who is my current favorite hockey player?
a) Jonathan Tavares
b) Sean Avery
c) Henrick Zetteberg
d) Felix "the cat" Potvin
Yes, hopefully Tavares will be my favorite player come draft day this June... But it's been Henrick Zetterberg all year, I got a hat with his number and a t-shirt with his name- (He's on the Redwings and has the best crafted playoff beard out there) He's also an amazing offensive and defensive player. I want to be him when I grow up. Felix Potvin was my first non Islander favorite player back in the day, I had a Leaf's jersey with his name on it! And Sean Avery is the most hated player in hockey, though he's so good at being so deplorable it's hard to not love him as the villain, and the fact that he's a Ranger makes it even more convenient to hate... and he was on 30 Rock briefly... so in a complex way he is my favorite, because everyone needs to hate someone... I told you, I'm complicated.
7) If I ever get married, what has to be the date of my wedding?
a) July 3rd
b) December 26th
c) April 1st
d) February 29th
My cousin Dave had his wedding on my birthday a few years ago. I vowed revenge. His birthday is July 3rd so it will be my wedding day if that is to ever happen. Though I fear it'll end up being some kind of impulsive move and end 42 hours later. Also, it's awkward on first dates when you tell the girl that if this ends in marriage, it has to be on July 3rd.
8) What was I watching that once caused me to fall off my bed from laughing?
a) The Simpsons - in 1998
b) Conan O'brien when Conan kissed Rebecca Romain
c) Masterpiece Theatre - 2005
d) The final episode of Dawson's Creek
Most people got this one- probably because Conan is on late, so I would most likely be in bed watching, but yes, that episode where he snuck a kiss from RR Stamos and went INSANE - made me cry from laughter, and spasm enough to fall out of my bed... oh and guess who's going to a taping of the tonight show in JULY?!!!?!!? THAT's RIGHT-ME!
9) If I had a black cat with white paws, what would I name it?
a) Michael Cassidy
b) Ms. Kitty Fantastico
c) Fredricka Michaels the IVth
d) Puck
I feel bad for those who put Ms. Kitty Fantastico, especially if you caught the Buffy the Vampire Slayer reference- but I've made it clear for a while now that I want a black cat with white paws named Puck and any kind of cat with a jeweled collar named Freddy Mercury. Good thing I'm a transient who will never settle down anywhere long enough to acquire a cat or two. Also, just a tidbit, many years ago, my sister and I realized our cat, Callie (a Calico cat, ugh how unoriginal) was really named Fredricka Michaels the III. Just so you know.
10) Which literary character causes me the most anguish in my life?
a) Holden Caulfield
b) Lady Brett Ashley
c) Noboru Wataya
d) Jordan Bake
Probably the hardest question, unless you knew me when I first read The Sun ALso Rises, and realized that I would continually find myself in the role of Jake Barnes dealing with Lady Ashley- there are many literary women who could fill this role of frustration, but she was the first. (One could argue Jordan Baker is of the same breed as Lady Brett, but she's worthless in the end.) Again, a little research, and you could of had this one too.
So, there you have it. Now back to going under the covers, where the fact that my closet friends in the world barely know anything about me won't hurt me anymore. It's 4:30 in the afternoon.
1) Which of the following institutes of higher learning have I attended?
a) Ithaca College
b) Hofstra University
c) SUNY Stony Brook
d) University of Southern California
e) WTF all of the above?!
The easiest one- even though I rarely talk about my first school, Ithaca, the fact it's the only question with an E choice should have been a give away.
2) Which song have I never sang at Karaoke?
a) How Soon is Now?
b) Layla
c) A Whole New World
d) Santa Baby
This was an unfair question. The point was to see if anyone would believe that I would sing "A Whole New World" and "Santa Baby" which I did in duets. (Please note I spent most of Christmas day practicing for "Santa Baby" on Xmas night- I have sang "Layla" by Derek and the Dominos, but to be fair, I should have put another more random song as the correct answer besides The Smith's "How Soon is Now"- I've never sang it, but there's no real reason why I haven't. I should have used a Creed song, or a DMB song, so basically if you picked a or b you're cool with me.
3) Where did I work for half a shift, and quit after my first lunch break?
a) Borders Books
b) Blockbuster Video
c) Old Navy
d) Smithtown High School East
Come on, Old Navy! They put those stupid walkie talkie ear pieces on me and watched me from above, telling me to go up to customers and ask them what size they were looking for- it sucked. So I went to get lunch at Boston Market, had a fabulous meal, and decided to quit when I went back.
4) I was once in the greatest two piece band of all time- what was it called?
a) Cloud 8
b) The Screwbeagles
c) Out, Out, Brief Candle!
d) Visor
Again, this is one of those it depends when we hung out kind of questions. But really, The Screwbeagles, my faux Ska band from high school was a three piece- Cloud 8 was just the name of a band I never formed- Out,Out, was the name of Michael Behr and my acacore- an acapella hard core band (sans the Brief Candle) leaving the obvious choice Visor- in which me and Michael Cassidy actually wrote 3 songs, and performed live in front of 4 people.
5) Who is my favorite French New Wave actress?
a) Zoey Deschanelle
b) Anna Karina
c) Madame Bovary
d) Emily Blunt
If you didn't get this one, then you are just lazy. Only one of the choices was a French New Wave actress, and she was PERFECTION, ugh especially in black and white - those eyes, those lips, that face, too bad she's French and no longer looks like she did in the early 60's. And it's too bad I'm not Godard, shooting her. (with a camera not a gun) Also a quick google on any of the others should show you that Madame Bovary is the name of a French novel, Zoey Deschanelle, though beautiful and talented, is a modern actress engaged to the dude from Death Cab... and Emily Blunt is British.
6) Who is my current favorite hockey player?
a) Jonathan Tavares
b) Sean Avery
c) Henrick Zetteberg
d) Felix "the cat" Potvin
Yes, hopefully Tavares will be my favorite player come draft day this June... But it's been Henrick Zetterberg all year, I got a hat with his number and a t-shirt with his name- (He's on the Redwings and has the best crafted playoff beard out there) He's also an amazing offensive and defensive player. I want to be him when I grow up. Felix Potvin was my first non Islander favorite player back in the day, I had a Leaf's jersey with his name on it! And Sean Avery is the most hated player in hockey, though he's so good at being so deplorable it's hard to not love him as the villain, and the fact that he's a Ranger makes it even more convenient to hate... and he was on 30 Rock briefly... so in a complex way he is my favorite, because everyone needs to hate someone... I told you, I'm complicated.
7) If I ever get married, what has to be the date of my wedding?
a) July 3rd
b) December 26th
c) April 1st
d) February 29th
My cousin Dave had his wedding on my birthday a few years ago. I vowed revenge. His birthday is July 3rd so it will be my wedding day if that is to ever happen. Though I fear it'll end up being some kind of impulsive move and end 42 hours later. Also, it's awkward on first dates when you tell the girl that if this ends in marriage, it has to be on July 3rd.
8) What was I watching that once caused me to fall off my bed from laughing?
a) The Simpsons - in 1998
b) Conan O'brien when Conan kissed Rebecca Romain
c) Masterpiece Theatre - 2005
d) The final episode of Dawson's Creek
Most people got this one- probably because Conan is on late, so I would most likely be in bed watching, but yes, that episode where he snuck a kiss from RR Stamos and went INSANE - made me cry from laughter, and spasm enough to fall out of my bed... oh and guess who's going to a taping of the tonight show in JULY?!!!?!!? THAT's RIGHT-ME!
9) If I had a black cat with white paws, what would I name it?
a) Michael Cassidy
b) Ms. Kitty Fantastico
c) Fredricka Michaels the IVth
d) Puck
I feel bad for those who put Ms. Kitty Fantastico, especially if you caught the Buffy the Vampire Slayer reference- but I've made it clear for a while now that I want a black cat with white paws named Puck and any kind of cat with a jeweled collar named Freddy Mercury. Good thing I'm a transient who will never settle down anywhere long enough to acquire a cat or two. Also, just a tidbit, many years ago, my sister and I realized our cat, Callie (a Calico cat, ugh how unoriginal) was really named Fredricka Michaels the III. Just so you know.
10) Which literary character causes me the most anguish in my life?
a) Holden Caulfield
b) Lady Brett Ashley
c) Noboru Wataya
d) Jordan Bake
Probably the hardest question, unless you knew me when I first read The Sun ALso Rises, and realized that I would continually find myself in the role of Jake Barnes dealing with Lady Ashley- there are many literary women who could fill this role of frustration, but she was the first. (One could argue Jordan Baker is of the same breed as Lady Brett, but she's worthless in the end.) Again, a little research, and you could of had this one too.
So, there you have it. Now back to going under the covers, where the fact that my closet friends in the world barely know anything about me won't hurt me anymore. It's 4:30 in the afternoon.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
The Problem with Today
First off, a new layout! I like changing colors. I'm like a chameleon, but not a lizard.
Second, I noticed the nation has been overly swept up with Twitter and tweeting. It seemed to be just a small group of people doing it, but now celebreties have made it the thing to do. However, I find it exhausting trying to keep with all these modes of updating what I'm doing with my life via the interweb. Yawn.
Snapshots of Updates!
The film, Zombo, is nearly finished - premier is May 10th at Norris Theatre at USC. It'll be a crowd pleazer, it's a zombie musical after all!
I finished the first draft of a new feature this week! Huzzah!
The Mets are coming to Dodger Stadium in May - will I go to all three games?
Speaking of May, what the hell happened to April?
Follow my tweets for updates on the NHL playoffs.
Second, I noticed the nation has been overly swept up with Twitter and tweeting. It seemed to be just a small group of people doing it, but now celebreties have made it the thing to do. However, I find it exhausting trying to keep with all these modes of updating what I'm doing with my life via the interweb. Yawn.
Snapshots of Updates!
The film, Zombo, is nearly finished - premier is May 10th at Norris Theatre at USC. It'll be a crowd pleazer, it's a zombie musical after all!
I finished the first draft of a new feature this week! Huzzah!
The Mets are coming to Dodger Stadium in May - will I go to all three games?
Speaking of May, what the hell happened to April?
Follow my tweets for updates on the NHL playoffs.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
March 24th, 2009 - The day I finally watch The Shawshank Redemption!
and then the move finished and I ran outside, the sky opened up, lighting illuminated the clouds and the rain pour down on me.
That didn't happen. For many years, Shawshank was the movie I'd "shock" people with by not having seen it. For some reason, everyone has seen and loved this movie. Many a year ago, I declared I would watch it someday- but it had to be a day I just needed to watch a great movie. Some thought that day would never come! And it's not to say I haven't had a bad day all these years- there's been plenty- but as time moved on, I couldn't put that kind of pressure on the movie, was it really a bad day I was waiting for? When I lost something, or felt I couldn't be cheered up by anyone- No. It was today. I woke up early, again, which has been my recent issue- I'm typically a 9 hours straight of sleep if an alarm doesn't wake me. The last week or so I've been struggling to stay asleep past 5 hours- this is strange. I had a lot to get done in the day, but there I was, early in the morning, not feeling particularly content or excited about anything- and Instant Netflix was calling- You need to watch a movie- Should I waste money I don't have on going to a theatre and just seeing a few movies? No. Should I make a peanut butter sandwich, sit around in pajamas and watch a movie about HOPE? Yes. Today was that day. Turns out it, it was a pretty good movie.
I haven't posted in a while- and it's not say there wasn't plenty of great things to write about- I've decided to not write about the entire Zombo experience, as I figure I need some stuff for people to talk to me about in person. It was an amazing experience, tons of work, but tons of fun. And at this point in time, I'm excited about our cut going into our pick up weekend- when the crew and cast reunite to grab a few needed shots. The band's getting back together!
I also went to NY for spring break- it was relaxing, low-key with obvious spikes of excitement and amusing nights. Plus it was productive, I got a lot of writing done- especially at Starbucks, where the same guy was working three days in a row, and the one day I took off, and decided to stop in at night to get a drink, he was there working. He clearly believes I go twice a day. Luckily it won't be until August when I will go to that Starbucks again. I also read some, watched some movies.
Only 6 weeks until the final screening, my summer schedule is starting to form - time is speeding up! Good thing I found two hours to fit in Shawshank before it was too late!
Also, I'm rereading J.D Salinger's Nine Stories - one story a day for nine days (that band is awful) today is day 4, for those keeping count at home.
That didn't happen. For many years, Shawshank was the movie I'd "shock" people with by not having seen it. For some reason, everyone has seen and loved this movie. Many a year ago, I declared I would watch it someday- but it had to be a day I just needed to watch a great movie. Some thought that day would never come! And it's not to say I haven't had a bad day all these years- there's been plenty- but as time moved on, I couldn't put that kind of pressure on the movie, was it really a bad day I was waiting for? When I lost something, or felt I couldn't be cheered up by anyone- No. It was today. I woke up early, again, which has been my recent issue- I'm typically a 9 hours straight of sleep if an alarm doesn't wake me. The last week or so I've been struggling to stay asleep past 5 hours- this is strange. I had a lot to get done in the day, but there I was, early in the morning, not feeling particularly content or excited about anything- and Instant Netflix was calling- You need to watch a movie- Should I waste money I don't have on going to a theatre and just seeing a few movies? No. Should I make a peanut butter sandwich, sit around in pajamas and watch a movie about HOPE? Yes. Today was that day. Turns out it, it was a pretty good movie.
I haven't posted in a while- and it's not say there wasn't plenty of great things to write about- I've decided to not write about the entire Zombo experience, as I figure I need some stuff for people to talk to me about in person. It was an amazing experience, tons of work, but tons of fun. And at this point in time, I'm excited about our cut going into our pick up weekend- when the crew and cast reunite to grab a few needed shots. The band's getting back together!
I also went to NY for spring break- it was relaxing, low-key with obvious spikes of excitement and amusing nights. Plus it was productive, I got a lot of writing done- especially at Starbucks, where the same guy was working three days in a row, and the one day I took off, and decided to stop in at night to get a drink, he was there working. He clearly believes I go twice a day. Luckily it won't be until August when I will go to that Starbucks again. I also read some, watched some movies.
Only 6 weeks until the final screening, my summer schedule is starting to form - time is speeding up! Good thing I found two hours to fit in Shawshank before it was too late!
Also, I'm rereading J.D Salinger's Nine Stories - one story a day for nine days (that band is awful) today is day 4, for those keeping count at home.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Saturday, February 14, 2009
The Interview of The Decade... or at least the month!
We (I) recently caught up with myself (as I was sitting on the couch sipping coffee) to find out what's been going on? Here is an exceprt from that interview:
Jeff the interviewer (J.I.) : Have you been drinking a lot of coffee?
Jeff (J): I wanted to cut back, but now I'm on three cups a day, plus an energy drink. Oh, what a world!
JI: Any reason for the sudden rise in caffiene intake?
J: Yeah- the movie! Don't get me wrong, nothing beats spending two weekends in a row, overnight in a cold, damp, spooky alley. Take a look:
JI: Wow!
J: I know. As producer I get to play the corpses the zombie's feed on, which is great, except for the freezing puddles i have to lie in, but sometimes you looks up, see the fog, and the zombies surrounding you as you peer into the bluish night from the walls of a brick alley and it's like "now, this is the life."
JI: You have a strange perception on what makes life worthwhile.
J: I know- I mean that's what's really makes me tick- those peripheral subjects that take me away. And really, this week has been chock full of visual and viceral reminders of the importance of the things I love or have loved as it were...
JI: Gah?
J: As you know Watchmen is coming out in a few weeks- and there's plenty of us who love that graphic novel who can't wait, but it kind of defeats the message within the book, having a huge budget movie, billboards of Rorschach all over L.A.- I mean the commericialism is tackeled head on by the characters in that world- yet- there's the awesome nerd factor of the fact that the Watchmen are plastered all over Los Angeles. Like who ever thought their be a time when this was the big "it" thing. I mean, I didn't read it until I was in college, as I had always hear of it, but never really sat down to read it until a friend lent me his copy- of course since, I passed it along to many others- two of my favorite times include when I had Amy come to me with help to find graphic novels to send to her husband Alan in Iraq- and I quickly chose Watchmen - and she reported back how much he loved it! There was also the time when I was finishing up teaching and started working at Borders again at night, and one of my students (who I knew to be an avid comic fan) came in and suggested he read Watchmen- he too was blown away and actually contacted me to tell him how much he loved it. So, yeah, I'm excited to see so much Watchmen commercialism - even it is an metaphysical conundrum. See:
JI: Maybe you should spend more time thinking about important issues...
J: Like Blink 182's announcement that they are a band again! And my 17 year old inner self can dance once again? ( I mean I have a whole blog cooking in my head defending my love of this band and it's importance in my adolescent years)
JI: The stimulus package that was passed...?
J: Or how about the fact that not only is Blink back, but GREEN DAY has announced the name of their American Idiot follow up" 21st Century breakdown and has started letting the media hear snippets of the album- and the early buzz is enough to make this my 15th year of listening Green Day, just as exciting as when I first bought Dookie at the ripe young age of 14?
JI: I mean, what about the important parts of life you are missing being so damn nostalgic about bands, books, movies and crap you like as a teenager?
J: Yeah, I know what you mean. Last night I MISSED the premier of Joss Whedon's new show Dollhouse. I was on set and talked with another crew member how I never thought I'd miss a Whedon show (especially since knowing it may only last a few weeks on air). He agreed, but he reminded me that it's probably Whedon's fault we were even out on that set- so I took some pride in that. Besides, I'm sure some friends DVR'd that shit!
JI: Uh huh, and what are you doing this Valentine's Day?
J: Well, we're shooting all night- so spending it in a cold, dark dreary alley.
JI: Exactly.
J: Yeah, I was concerned about this too, but a good friend pointed out that so many of my friends who are having "traditional" Valentine's Day are kidding themselves in loveless or pointless relationships. Maybe this is why we all need our visceral escapes.
JI: Agreed.
Jeff maintains this blog, and reads others. He's only ever interviewed himself because he is a little narsicsitc.
Jeff the interviewer (J.I.) : Have you been drinking a lot of coffee?
Jeff (J): I wanted to cut back, but now I'm on three cups a day, plus an energy drink. Oh, what a world!
JI: Any reason for the sudden rise in caffiene intake?
J: Yeah- the movie! Don't get me wrong, nothing beats spending two weekends in a row, overnight in a cold, damp, spooky alley. Take a look:
JI: Wow!
J: I know. As producer I get to play the corpses the zombie's feed on, which is great, except for the freezing puddles i have to lie in, but sometimes you looks up, see the fog, and the zombies surrounding you as you peer into the bluish night from the walls of a brick alley and it's like "now, this is the life."
JI: You have a strange perception on what makes life worthwhile.
J: I know- I mean that's what's really makes me tick- those peripheral subjects that take me away. And really, this week has been chock full of visual and viceral reminders of the importance of the things I love or have loved as it were...
JI: Gah?
J: As you know Watchmen is coming out in a few weeks- and there's plenty of us who love that graphic novel who can't wait, but it kind of defeats the message within the book, having a huge budget movie, billboards of Rorschach all over L.A.- I mean the commericialism is tackeled head on by the characters in that world- yet- there's the awesome nerd factor of the fact that the Watchmen are plastered all over Los Angeles. Like who ever thought their be a time when this was the big "it" thing. I mean, I didn't read it until I was in college, as I had always hear of it, but never really sat down to read it until a friend lent me his copy- of course since, I passed it along to many others- two of my favorite times include when I had Amy come to me with help to find graphic novels to send to her husband Alan in Iraq- and I quickly chose Watchmen - and she reported back how much he loved it! There was also the time when I was finishing up teaching and started working at Borders again at night, and one of my students (who I knew to be an avid comic fan) came in and suggested he read Watchmen- he too was blown away and actually contacted me to tell him how much he loved it. So, yeah, I'm excited to see so much Watchmen commercialism - even it is an metaphysical conundrum. See:
JI: Maybe you should spend more time thinking about important issues...
J: Like Blink 182's announcement that they are a band again! And my 17 year old inner self can dance once again? ( I mean I have a whole blog cooking in my head defending my love of this band and it's importance in my adolescent years)
JI: The stimulus package that was passed...?
J: Or how about the fact that not only is Blink back, but GREEN DAY has announced the name of their American Idiot follow up" 21st Century breakdown and has started letting the media hear snippets of the album- and the early buzz is enough to make this my 15th year of listening Green Day, just as exciting as when I first bought Dookie at the ripe young age of 14?
JI: I mean, what about the important parts of life you are missing being so damn nostalgic about bands, books, movies and crap you like as a teenager?
J: Yeah, I know what you mean. Last night I MISSED the premier of Joss Whedon's new show Dollhouse. I was on set and talked with another crew member how I never thought I'd miss a Whedon show (especially since knowing it may only last a few weeks on air). He agreed, but he reminded me that it's probably Whedon's fault we were even out on that set- so I took some pride in that. Besides, I'm sure some friends DVR'd that shit!
JI: Uh huh, and what are you doing this Valentine's Day?
J: Well, we're shooting all night- so spending it in a cold, dark dreary alley.
JI: Exactly.
J: Yeah, I was concerned about this too, but a good friend pointed out that so many of my friends who are having "traditional" Valentine's Day are kidding themselves in loveless or pointless relationships. Maybe this is why we all need our visceral escapes.
JI: Agreed.
Jeff maintains this blog, and reads others. He's only ever interviewed himself because he is a little narsicsitc.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
"Some people never go crazy. What truly horrible lives they must lead. "
The minutes tick by faster each day. Friday night I finally get to start principle production on this wacky film I'm producing. It's this state of delirium that I'm enjoying so much- The fact that every detail is still up in the air, that so many people seem to be pushing themselves to the brink, and my addiction to Rock Star Energy drinks soars everyday- it's in this chaos that I'm finding peace. After all, it's just a movie! I'm stressed, but not in the typical soul crushing sense. It's more of just a heavy sense of focus. This doesn't bode well for my other class (which I laugh at saying as I forget daily I'm producing for a class, and this isn't a full time job that will pay me any money- and I'm not even working for free, but actually paying a small fortune for this exhausting lifestyle) meanwhile, I'm left to almost no writing time in the week, and no time to stop and watch a movie, or read a book - it's draining to miss these escapes. In the morning, as I drive off to wherever it's I need to be or search for, I think how, I'm going to make that time to read, make that time to write, make that time to just catch up on my instant netflix. But there's plenty of time approaching. Spring Break for instance, maybe I'll finally have a chance to read that copy of Infinite Jest sitting on my shelf, collecting dust and mocking me for not taking advantage of my time during the holidays, when I had nothing filling my days.
Oh well, at least I had time to fill out that annoying Facebook survey that's swept the site. People seem to love it, while I know plenty who judge it as trivial and childish, but we are a generation who needs to take the time to write about ourselves, so everyone we've ever known can TRUELY know us. Where else can you pick up conversations or inside jokes that were last pertinent in 11th grade? We live in strange times. So says everyone who's ever lived.
I recently bought a few more records, the new Springsteen on Vinyl, which was the perfect deal for me, as it came with downloadable versions of all the songs. I can listen to the record and still load it on the ol' ipod, which is less amusing to me now that I can spin my favorite albums in lo-fi (oh yes, I picked up an Alkaline Trio album too). What's even better, next week The Get Up Kids "Something To Write Home About" will be released on vinyl to celebrate the 10th anniversary of such a pivotal album - I can't CAN'T believe it came out 10 years ago- I still feel the charge when songs come on from it, like I felt a decade ago. What's my Age Again (also celebrating 10 years for that song and wow, I suddenly miss Blink 182 and hope that they will make a triumphant come back sometime this year.
Last and not least, has anyone been watching this (what should be the last) season of Scrubs? I've been catching them on the 360 over the weekends, and I do believe this is the best the show has been in 3 seasons at least. It feels fresh, it feels like every line is well thought out, jokes packed in, character's moving forward- the show isn't dying of last gasps, it's more like they are steering to go out in style. After last season I was sure it had turned rotten- It's not just 30 Rock keeping me watching television anymore!
Okay, I'm very tired and have a large list of things to do tomorrow, Thursday, a day away from the first day of shooting.
Oh well, at least I had time to fill out that annoying Facebook survey that's swept the site. People seem to love it, while I know plenty who judge it as trivial and childish, but we are a generation who needs to take the time to write about ourselves, so everyone we've ever known can TRUELY know us. Where else can you pick up conversations or inside jokes that were last pertinent in 11th grade? We live in strange times. So says everyone who's ever lived.
I recently bought a few more records, the new Springsteen on Vinyl, which was the perfect deal for me, as it came with downloadable versions of all the songs. I can listen to the record and still load it on the ol' ipod, which is less amusing to me now that I can spin my favorite albums in lo-fi (oh yes, I picked up an Alkaline Trio album too). What's even better, next week The Get Up Kids "Something To Write Home About" will be released on vinyl to celebrate the 10th anniversary of such a pivotal album - I can't CAN'T believe it came out 10 years ago- I still feel the charge when songs come on from it, like I felt a decade ago. What's my Age Again (also celebrating 10 years for that song and wow, I suddenly miss Blink 182 and hope that they will make a triumphant come back sometime this year.
Last and not least, has anyone been watching this (what should be the last) season of Scrubs? I've been catching them on the 360 over the weekends, and I do believe this is the best the show has been in 3 seasons at least. It feels fresh, it feels like every line is well thought out, jokes packed in, character's moving forward- the show isn't dying of last gasps, it's more like they are steering to go out in style. After last season I was sure it had turned rotten- It's not just 30 Rock keeping me watching television anymore!
Okay, I'm very tired and have a large list of things to do tomorrow, Thursday, a day away from the first day of shooting.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
This Amercian Life
I was driving to school yesterday morning when it was reported on the news of NPR that John Updike had died. I actually verbally expressed remorse. I haven't read a fraction of Updike's work, but I always read his reviews in the New Yorker (which I tend to buy at airport magazine shops- probably because I assume I use my 5- 7 hours of travel time to actually finish a whole issue - which makes me wonder how anyone can have a subscription to the New Yorker and actually have the time to read it cover-to-cover on a weekly basis, but this is really besides the point) UPDIKE! Yes, I was sad to hear he passed away, as it was in my senior year high school class, The Short Story, that I first read "A & P." It's really one of those first times where I felt like a story was written for me, and was able to illustrate my own thoughts and realizations of growing up- which I couldn't verbalize. This story is that verbalization. I often think back on the story, the young guy working in that A & P- and what he witnesses, and what he attempts to do- because it bleeds of truth. It's about rebellion, and it's about making personal choices that may not be accepted by the status quo- it's about the consequences of being an individual, about the often futility of martyrdom- but being young an naive enough to believe that one can change the quo. Or it's about a teenage boy trying to impress some girls. Either way, it hit home then and for something as simple as that, I was somber at the news of John Updike's passing.
One side note- I never had the chance to officially teach this story in any of my classes, but in one of my teaching classes I created a lesson plan for it. Just in case you were wondering~
One side note- I never had the chance to officially teach this story in any of my classes, but in one of my teaching classes I created a lesson plan for it. Just in case you were wondering~
Saturday, January 24, 2009
“If being crazy means living life as if it matters, then I don’t mind being completely insane.”
SO the OScar nominations were announced on Thursday. I expected all of the top 5 but one. Substitute THE READER for DARK KNIGHT - and I would have happy. Ben Button landed the most nominations- but this movie-that-tries-way-too-hard-to-be-emotionally-meaningful is really a hollow spectacle devoid of true emotions. (I choose The Reader over this one!) I was also sorry to see Rev. Road get passed over- though the backlash it received is understandable- it takes a lot to make a film of unlikeable characters in a depressing detierioating marriage- but I liked it!
All I can hope for is that Slumdog or Milk walk away with best picture - ditto for the directors. (I always root for Gus Van Sant, even when he makes awful painfully minimalist films such as Gerry and Last Days. Mostly, because in high school, my film/video teacher, Ms. Smith, knew Van Sant, and had tried to get him to do a workshop with us. He never did, but still it was nice that he even thought about us enough to reject us.
The following are pictures of my new room. Please notice the bold choice for my walls. I hope this doesn't end up driving me insane!
And here's video of the record player in motion!
All I can hope for is that Slumdog or Milk walk away with best picture - ditto for the directors. (I always root for Gus Van Sant, even when he makes awful painfully minimalist films such as Gerry and Last Days. Mostly, because in high school, my film/video teacher, Ms. Smith, knew Van Sant, and had tried to get him to do a workshop with us. He never did, but still it was nice that he even thought about us enough to reject us.
The following are pictures of my new room. Please notice the bold choice for my walls. I hope this doesn't end up driving me insane!
And here's video of the record player in motion!
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Monday, January 19, 2009
my sign is vital, my hands are cold
The eve of the inauguration... how many people will end up watching it? In D.C.? On Facebook? That's where I plan to watch. It feels like the next place to be watching such a cultural event. I assume people listened to former president's take their oath on radios, black and white televisions, and now H.D. broadcasts and on our social networks. Fast forward 40 years - "I remember when we watched President Obama's inauguration on a social networking site called facebook. Little did we know then how much CHANGE that day we begin..." Change for good we hope. Things aren't looking to good out there. But for at least tomorrow, people will be celebrating, full of anticipation and high hopes. We are suddenly confident in the midst a dense fog. Even our beloved celebrities are showing up to spread the cheer. That's something right? Well, Bruce Springsteen at least performed for the one of the most promising moments in our nations history. (Speaking of The Boss, what a year, probably going to win an Oscar for "The Wrestler" song. Playing for Obama and then playing in the Superbowl Half Time Show.) But we can't just sit back and celebrate and pat ourselves on the back. Nothing's been done yet. Positive thinking will only get you so far. But it's a start.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Out There Part of Your World
The semester has finally "officially" started, though as a producer this "introduction to the class" session seemed about 6 weeks too late! No worries there, the key to producing is to realize the avalanche is right on your heals and know it's moments away from burying you. Sounds like fun, eh?
Since the work load has consumed most my last few days, and today as well (though I am taking a 3 hour break tonight to take in delightful hockey match up of Henrik Zetterberg and the Red Wings take on those pesky up and comers the L.A. Kings at the Staple Center). I've had the luxury of being too exhausted to care that I have no room, nothing unpacked and am sleeping on a futon that seems to be gasping for life in the cushion. Again, no worries. Though, it's kind of strange looking up and seeing your flocculent mattress leaning up against the wall behind a couch. So close yet so far.
Tidbits of the week:
In the 1988 movie Twins, smoking was permitted in supermarkets. I thought Marney was pretty when I was 8 years old and still think she's a knock-out now, even with her 80's hair and smoking her cigarette after deflowering Julius.
Can't wait for Obama to go from president-elect to president. Hope he saves the world. The potential Great Depression 2 (GDII) makes me quite pensive.
Still haven't found "I'd rather be reading Bukowski" bumper stickers for me and my sister.
My Starbucks giftcards from Christmas are running dangerously low.
I need to find 2 hours this weekend to see a new print of Godard's Made in the U.S.A. - one that's never been released on video or dvd - and wouldn't you know, is playing over at the NUART this week.
Can't wait to find an LP of the song to be played in the credits of WATCHMEN, a Bob Dylan cover of "Desolation Row" by My Chemical Romance- glee.
Since the work load has consumed most my last few days, and today as well (though I am taking a 3 hour break tonight to take in delightful hockey match up of Henrik Zetterberg and the Red Wings take on those pesky up and comers the L.A. Kings at the Staple Center). I've had the luxury of being too exhausted to care that I have no room, nothing unpacked and am sleeping on a futon that seems to be gasping for life in the cushion. Again, no worries. Though, it's kind of strange looking up and seeing your flocculent mattress leaning up against the wall behind a couch. So close yet so far.
Tidbits of the week:
In the 1988 movie Twins, smoking was permitted in supermarkets. I thought Marney was pretty when I was 8 years old and still think she's a knock-out now, even with her 80's hair and smoking her cigarette after deflowering Julius.
Can't wait for Obama to go from president-elect to president. Hope he saves the world. The potential Great Depression 2 (GDII) makes me quite pensive.
Still haven't found "I'd rather be reading Bukowski" bumper stickers for me and my sister.
My Starbucks giftcards from Christmas are running dangerously low.
I need to find 2 hours this weekend to see a new print of Godard's Made in the U.S.A. - one that's never been released on video or dvd - and wouldn't you know, is playing over at the NUART this week.
Can't wait to find an LP of the song to be played in the credits of WATCHMEN, a Bob Dylan cover of "Desolation Row" by My Chemical Romance- glee.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Man on Wire on DVD
Really, if you want to just watch something inspirational and something that will show you potential of the human being watch the documentary Man On Wire. It's on dvd now and should win the best documentary oscar.
Started class today in the outrageous and spectacular new Cinema Arts building. The elevator is in the Lucas wing, but my classroom was in the Spielberg wing... complicated layout, seriously. The complex looks like it belongs in Florence or maybe Vegas's version of Florence. It made me realize as I wandering down the massive halls covered in rare and vibrant classic movie posters (The Blue Dahlia written by Raymond Chandler? I got to rent that one!) that I'm spending my days in the most impressive Film school building in the WORLD. I just wish the cafe would open and that I take full advantage of the facilities. You should definitely check it out when you visit me!
Also, check around for any good vinyl at thrift stores or your parent's basement. Send it to me, but make sure it's something I'll enjoy.
Started class today in the outrageous and spectacular new Cinema Arts building. The elevator is in the Lucas wing, but my classroom was in the Spielberg wing... complicated layout, seriously. The complex looks like it belongs in Florence or maybe Vegas's version of Florence. It made me realize as I wandering down the massive halls covered in rare and vibrant classic movie posters (The Blue Dahlia written by Raymond Chandler? I got to rent that one!) that I'm spending my days in the most impressive Film school building in the WORLD. I just wish the cafe would open and that I take full advantage of the facilities. You should definitely check it out when you visit me!
Also, check around for any good vinyl at thrift stores or your parent's basement. Send it to me, but make sure it's something I'll enjoy.
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Roomless
I'm in my new house. All my stuff is piled in the living room, and outside on the porch. Unfortunately my lease ended on the apartment a few weeks before the room I'm going to live is actually available. This means an undetermined amount of time living on a futon in the living room.
Luckily, moving here is exciting. Greg and Rich will make for solid roommates as Rich enjoys football, wine and most fun things. Greg has decided to become a beer baron, and will be trying to brew his own beer in the kitchen. Plus, my rarely used xbox 360 has found new life. It's a shame I'm going to be so inundated with work for school to just let go and sit, wrapped in my blue fuzzy blanket, and just watch movies and fight zombies on the 360. Unless I eliminate sleep. I'm not beyond this.
To help bring a new sense of style to the house I impulsively decided I wanted a record player, found an inexpensive one on craiglist and within a day, entered the world of vinyl. The thought came to me as I was listening to some albums I bought this year on Itunes. I was always a fan of album art, especially on my cd's and was pensive thinking how it's a part of music buying is ending. Then I thought about tapes, and records. Records were what album art was really for, those big sleeves created a sense that these songs together create an actual piece of art. Plus, there's just certain bands that feel like they need to be heard on LP. It's just part of that raw sensation that I've never experience in my digital realm. Yep, I thought all this and bought a record player. I don't plan to buy tons of vinyl. Mostly, I'm going to look for select albums I love that I believe would give me a different listening experience and pick up those. Also it allows friends to send me records they find and think I want. Like any Bouncing Souls album.
Tomorrow starts the first 3 days of auditions for the film. I also got to remember in all my producing and running around to go to my screenwriting class on Monday.
Luckily, moving here is exciting. Greg and Rich will make for solid roommates as Rich enjoys football, wine and most fun things. Greg has decided to become a beer baron, and will be trying to brew his own beer in the kitchen. Plus, my rarely used xbox 360 has found new life. It's a shame I'm going to be so inundated with work for school to just let go and sit, wrapped in my blue fuzzy blanket, and just watch movies and fight zombies on the 360. Unless I eliminate sleep. I'm not beyond this.
To help bring a new sense of style to the house I impulsively decided I wanted a record player, found an inexpensive one on craiglist and within a day, entered the world of vinyl. The thought came to me as I was listening to some albums I bought this year on Itunes. I was always a fan of album art, especially on my cd's and was pensive thinking how it's a part of music buying is ending. Then I thought about tapes, and records. Records were what album art was really for, those big sleeves created a sense that these songs together create an actual piece of art. Plus, there's just certain bands that feel like they need to be heard on LP. It's just part of that raw sensation that I've never experience in my digital realm. Yep, I thought all this and bought a record player. I don't plan to buy tons of vinyl. Mostly, I'm going to look for select albums I love that I believe would give me a different listening experience and pick up those. Also it allows friends to send me records they find and think I want. Like any Bouncing Souls album.
Tomorrow starts the first 3 days of auditions for the film. I also got to remember in all my producing and running around to go to my screenwriting class on Monday.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
The New Production House
After having a business lunch with my Producing partner we stumbled into the Bourgeois Pig, an independent coffee house with free wi-fi and the ambience of black lighted art gallery/ wooded forest. I believe it's my new spot.
The '09 sound
The Limelight is still out. For those still checking.
Here we go, Los Angles year 2~
There’s a lot to discuss. I’m thrilled to report that my year ended with a delightful few weeks back on Long Island. I was able to relax, spend time with my family and my good friends. It was like pushing the old reset button on an old Nintendo System. The trip took me from Long Island to Newark, New Jersey, to Ewing, New Jersey to Washington D.C. back to Long Island. If someone were to ask me what was my favorite part, I would probably stand still and blank, I mean how can you choose? There were highlights, such as a night spent in a hot tub, sipping champagne, after a bustling snowstorm. A ton of great nights with my official #1 Friend Danea, who stepped up to avoid waffles the entire trip. I have the t-shirt to prove it. Can’t wait to wear it in San Diego! The Christmas Party, was fancy ass and videographed, which we will watch NEXT Christmas. There was much karaoke with my duet champ Ari and constant reverie in classic fun with Amy and Alan. Not to mention gracious appearances by Ian, the greatest person in the world, Michael Behr! In the flesh. A Jersey getaway hosted by Eric and Eileen, constant hockey games and movie talks with Pete and his (now) fiancé, Melyssa! Christmas joy with Caitlin, and sizzling styln’ with Michael. Another New Year’s Eve with Gina Cutillo. And of course the many other people who made it a perfect vacation from the Left Coast.
But I can’t spend too much time recapping, as this blog is supposed to be about my experiences back here. The blog resolution is to keep it more updated. But it’s hard. As I told Amy, who took the blogspiration and made the best Blog ever (if you are reading this stop and read hers! www.alternativearmywife.wordpress.com) It’s like, why bother, she’s already blown me away blogging. But, this isn’t a competition; it’s a chance to purge my thoughts to a willing audience. Thank you.
So quick favorites of 2008
Favorite films- Dark Knight – By far on of my favorite films of all time, I could go on again on how it pushed the genre to all new boundaries. And as I saw the other critically hyped films, I couldn’t help but think, these are good, but Dark Knight is masterpiece.
Slumdog Millionaire- the real fairy tale feel good about life movie of the year. Not that Benjamin Button crap.
Milk- One of the most truthful feeling bio films I’ve ever seen, it never felt like a “movie”.
Let The Right One In- the real must see vampire movie of the year. Honest, chilling, and truthful about childhood innocence and fears.
Other films I really enjoyed – Hellboy 2, Ironman, Synechode, NY, Revolutionary Road, Wall E and Vicky, Christie, Barcelona.
Favorite Music from 2008
Check my old blogs about my gushing feelings about The Gaslight Anthem, but their new one, ’59 Sound is my favorite of the year.
I also loved the new Coldplay’s Metallica’s Death Magnetic (who knew they could make one like this again?) MGMT, T.I., Ludacris, Death Cab for Cutie Narrow Stairs, and of course Alkaline Trio, Irony and Agony.
Favorite Sport moments of 2008
The Superbowl- come on, besides that it was the Giants, how they won and whom they beat made it the best one I’ve ever seen.
My last game at Shea, Mets came back to beat the Braves, after I climbed up to the upper deck, those orange seats where planes from LaGuardia always clipped my head. That’s how I’ll remember Shea.
Red Wings winning the Stanley Cup – after three years, the NHL has completely rebounded from the lockout, all new stars, and one of the best finals in long memory.
Of the heals of watching the Wings beat the Hawks at Wrigley Field (though this one was in 2009) We can’t forget the first Winter Classic in Buffalo, snow falling, Crosby winning it in a shoot out in OT. The great new New Years Day tradition.
So that’s the wrap up.
I’m moving out of my apartment on Friday, January 9th to my new digs with Greg and Rich in Culver City. Lots of couches. Team Cherry House.
Oh, and I’m producing a film for school.
Keep you posted.
Here we go, Los Angles year 2~
There’s a lot to discuss. I’m thrilled to report that my year ended with a delightful few weeks back on Long Island. I was able to relax, spend time with my family and my good friends. It was like pushing the old reset button on an old Nintendo System. The trip took me from Long Island to Newark, New Jersey, to Ewing, New Jersey to Washington D.C. back to Long Island. If someone were to ask me what was my favorite part, I would probably stand still and blank, I mean how can you choose? There were highlights, such as a night spent in a hot tub, sipping champagne, after a bustling snowstorm. A ton of great nights with my official #1 Friend Danea, who stepped up to avoid waffles the entire trip. I have the t-shirt to prove it. Can’t wait to wear it in San Diego! The Christmas Party, was fancy ass and videographed, which we will watch NEXT Christmas. There was much karaoke with my duet champ Ari and constant reverie in classic fun with Amy and Alan. Not to mention gracious appearances by Ian, the greatest person in the world, Michael Behr! In the flesh. A Jersey getaway hosted by Eric and Eileen, constant hockey games and movie talks with Pete and his (now) fiancé, Melyssa! Christmas joy with Caitlin, and sizzling styln’ with Michael. Another New Year’s Eve with Gina Cutillo. And of course the many other people who made it a perfect vacation from the Left Coast.
But I can’t spend too much time recapping, as this blog is supposed to be about my experiences back here. The blog resolution is to keep it more updated. But it’s hard. As I told Amy, who took the blogspiration and made the best Blog ever (if you are reading this stop and read hers! www.alternativearmywife.wordpress.com) It’s like, why bother, she’s already blown me away blogging. But, this isn’t a competition; it’s a chance to purge my thoughts to a willing audience. Thank you.
So quick favorites of 2008
Favorite films- Dark Knight – By far on of my favorite films of all time, I could go on again on how it pushed the genre to all new boundaries. And as I saw the other critically hyped films, I couldn’t help but think, these are good, but Dark Knight is masterpiece.
Slumdog Millionaire- the real fairy tale feel good about life movie of the year. Not that Benjamin Button crap.
Milk- One of the most truthful feeling bio films I’ve ever seen, it never felt like a “movie”.
Let The Right One In- the real must see vampire movie of the year. Honest, chilling, and truthful about childhood innocence and fears.
Other films I really enjoyed – Hellboy 2, Ironman, Synechode, NY, Revolutionary Road, Wall E and Vicky, Christie, Barcelona.
Favorite Music from 2008
Check my old blogs about my gushing feelings about The Gaslight Anthem, but their new one, ’59 Sound is my favorite of the year.
I also loved the new Coldplay’s Metallica’s Death Magnetic (who knew they could make one like this again?) MGMT, T.I., Ludacris, Death Cab for Cutie Narrow Stairs, and of course Alkaline Trio, Irony and Agony.
Favorite Sport moments of 2008
The Superbowl- come on, besides that it was the Giants, how they won and whom they beat made it the best one I’ve ever seen.
My last game at Shea, Mets came back to beat the Braves, after I climbed up to the upper deck, those orange seats where planes from LaGuardia always clipped my head. That’s how I’ll remember Shea.
Red Wings winning the Stanley Cup – after three years, the NHL has completely rebounded from the lockout, all new stars, and one of the best finals in long memory.
Of the heals of watching the Wings beat the Hawks at Wrigley Field (though this one was in 2009) We can’t forget the first Winter Classic in Buffalo, snow falling, Crosby winning it in a shoot out in OT. The great new New Years Day tradition.
So that’s the wrap up.
I’m moving out of my apartment on Friday, January 9th to my new digs with Greg and Rich in Culver City. Lots of couches. Team Cherry House.
Oh, and I’m producing a film for school.
Keep you posted.
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