Stomach Topsy Turvy

Post cruise stomach blues. I think I have been giving it a whirl the past week or so. On the last night of the cruise, I think I ate just too much and I was twisting and turning that night from pain. I did not even sleep a wink. My brother got me tea that morning, and I felt a little better but I threw up after. Then the whole day Sunday I just couldn't eat anything for fear that it would just go right back out. I just started eating again yesterday after we got in from the airport. The one good thing, though, is that I am now waking up early again, and sleeping "on time," so I hope I am at least partly done with my battle with insomnia. Now I am famished, though, and I am just not used to eating breakfast anymore. Oh, the things I go through - and this is just all so interesting for everyone, isn't it?


Everywhere I go now, it seems that Christmas has sprung. Before I left, not as much and now the streets are tinseled red and green. I don't feel too Christmas-sy yet, but I will try harder. I used to love this time of year, and now I can'e even bear to watch the treacly "Rockefeller Christmas Tree" special. All this commercialism of the holidays really gets to me, and I long for a simple, pure celebration.  

Blessings are oftentimes not valued till they are gone.
~ Thomas Fuller

Golden Trash

BURLESQUE stars two divas: Cher and Christina Aguilera, so at the very least it shows promise. I don't think the movie was aiming for "Citizen Kane," but at the very least it could give us this generation's "Showgirls." (I had high hopes for the latter) Sadly, though, it isn't either. Though it has hot flashes of camp, they aren't plenty enough to erase the boredom that the rest of the movie subjects us to. The most glaring omission of the movie is a major one: a story. 


I wouldn't call this movie a musical. None of the songs makes sense, never mind move the story forward. The musical numbers have enough glitter and glamour in them, but are soulless. Except for a song or two, they are tuneless and colorless (I said the same thing when I reviewed the soundtrack ) I thought that maybe contextually the songs would work better, but unfortunately they don't. (I do think, though, that uninspired drag queens will have a field day mimicking some of the numbers)


Cher comes off unscathed probably because she looks like she isn't taking the whole thing too seriously. Christina Aguilera, however, flops. I have never been a fan of her, and in here she tries, again, too hard. She dances like she sings: all over the place and devoid of any kind of subtlety. I am sure her fans would eat her up, but there's no convert here. Stanley Tucci has fun when he is on screen, but it just looks like he brought his character over from "The Devil Wore Prada." Eric Dane and Cam Gigandet look good, but they have personalities of cardboard.


I am very disappointed int he movie, probably because I wanted very much to like it. It clearly has the gay audience in mind - they use Madonna's 'Ray Of Light" and Barbra's husband, James Brolin, has a cameo - but gay men, in particular, have such refined taste that all the trash here would just be, well, trash in their eyes. No wonder how you cover them in gold, they will still be trash. For once, I say: Stop The Music!

Things I Learned After My Second Sailing On The Solstice

1. The Solstice, a little more than a year after I sailed her, has lost none of its lustre. The service is impeccable, and the rooms peerless. But, I must say, that the entertainment was horrid. The Cruise Director was ineffective, was nowhere to be found, and was not amusing when he was on. And a big majority of the choices were sub-standard: the jazz singer sang flat, the party band was a singing cliche. I never thought I would say this, but I was almost missing Matt Yee! On a related side note, I hear that Matt is now performing at the new Allure Of The Seas. 


2.  The food was fantastic, as always but I spoke to the Maitre'D and he did say that the menus for all Solstice-style ships are pretty much identical. So even though I love most of the choices (the Lamb Shank done Targine style is yummy as ever) I have tried most of the menu. But then again, I glance at most dishes and still see sa lot that are new to me, and I just end up confusing my own theory. 


3. Whenever I mentioned to someone that I was a past Atlantis cruiser, their eyes light up. No wonder. Apparently,  the crew loves Atlantis cruisers - they say they are most generous, most fun. The gays are tough, but fair. Plus, they make way more money on Atlantis cruises, apparently.  A bartender/server makes $1000+ a week. And how is this for trivia: the most ordered beverage on an Atlantis cruise: Grey Goose. 

It is impossible to be negative
while we are giving thanks.

~ Donald Curtis

He

One of the great things about going on trips, for me, is that I really get to catch up on reading. I "saved" the Ricky Martin memoir titled ME for this trip and I got so engrossed in reading it that I was already half way through the book on my flight in to Florida. Do I consider myself a big fan of his? Not really, though I always did think he was super cute. I wish his music had more depth, but as they are the musical equivalents of bon bons (shake your!) I don't complain much. Now, the book. Well, those expecting a salacious tell-all will probably have to look elsewhere. This is a very chaste and spiritual memoir. I sense that Ricky has gone through a lot of therapy and it shows. He analyzes and over analyzes his life, and there is a lot of psychological and spiritual mumbo jumbo that gets repeated over and over again. I appreciated it the first time 'round, but reading it pover and over again got to be a little tiresome. When it came to writing about details of his life, he was a lot too cautious. I mean, as much as I would love to, I know I wouldn't be reading detailed accounts of his sexual escapades, but he wouldn't even name the major loves of his life - men and women. Yes, I heard him in interviews saying he wants to protect these people, but throw us a little bone here, Ricky! As it was, the book got a little exasperating to read sometimes. I mean, even on his professional accomplishments, he is pretty skimpy on details. I think most of his fans would love to read about how he recorded and conceived his hits like "La Vida Loca." Besides saying that he collaborated with Desmond Child and Robi Rosa, we don't get anything else. I have read a lot of his fans saying that they love how dignified and classy the book came out to be, but a little dirt would have been nice. 

Back On Land

 ... And I am back on land! It was an exhilarating, and exhausting trip. I wish I coud say it was all fun and games, but amidst all the drama, it's not all roses and lollipops. I had all in all a good time - a cruise is always a good time - but I would be lying if I said that it was my most ideal situation. But still, it is a blessing, and since it is Thanksgiving, I can only say thanks to the Universe for the wonderful opportunity. Right now everyone else has gone home except for me and my Dad - our flight is tomorrow morning at 9 a.m. It's quite sad, after a week that we are all together. But we move on...

"Only the truth of who you are, if realized, will set you free."

- Eckhart Tolle

Rockefeller Gabby

Here is a picture of me and Gabby by Rockefeller Center. 

Annie-mate Your Holidays

One of the most puzzling things in the world is why Annie Lennox was dropped by her label, Arista. I think she is one of those artists who have never made a bad record. All her solo albums have been emotional journeys for me. But she is back, now on Decca, and has released a Christmas album. It is nothing short of a Holiday miracle. 


It is not your traditional Christmas album, though. You won't be imagining sleigh rides nor won't be seeing your momma kissing Santa while listening to these Christmas songs. Most of these are ancient chorale numbers, and indeed she recorded these with a South African choir. (Proceeds of the record will benefit women and children living with AIDS in Africa)  Imagine yourself in those atmospheric Protest churches, and add to that a dash of modern arrangements, and you will get the vibe of this album.  The songs aren't secular, but it doesn't matter, cause the message is the same. The great thing about Annie's voice is that it's so flexible - it is ancient, it is modern, it's always arresting.  

Things Just Ain't The Same

Last night we met this couple who are also going to be on the Solstice, and they were just as imagined the Solstice passenger to be: older (60s), white, well-dressed, prim and proper. It is definitely not the same crowd as when I was last on the ship. As Deborah Cox would say, "things just ain't the same." But different does not necessarily mean bad. I just gotta roll, you know.  Apparently the Allure Of The Seas is on the same port - maybe I will get to see her. It's beautiful and sunny here in Fort Lauderdale - sweet breeze, comfortable 80 degrees. I just hope this cold gets zapped as we leave shore - I am feeling a bit better but it's still there. Sickness be gone! Right now I am at the hotel lobby waiting for our shuttle to go to the port, and I am quickly getting excited...and I just can't hide it!

FLL

Arrived safely here in Fort Lauderdale. It was one of the smoothest flights I have ever taken, and I was quite impressed by the pilot - such a seamless landing. Even the lady sitting next to us exclaimed, "I did not even feel it!" I know they have had problems lately, but I am still impressed by JetBlue. We are staying here at the Ramada Inn and it's not bad - clean and efficient. We just had dinner at this place called Rustic Inn - apparently a local favorite here. Seafood is their specialty and my family ordered this HUGE king crab that was enormous! Too bad I am allergic, or I would have dived in. But I did have the swordfish, and it was fresh and yummy, so I am still a happy boy. But we did have dinner Florida-style, though - which means that we ate at 6:00 pm or so! And just for a funny counter-point, when we were on our way to the hotel, we passed by the Walgreen's which I know is just behind the Boardwalk Bar where they have porn stars dancing every night. I wonder if Brent Everett was there? I should have said hi. 

The worst sin towards our fellow creatures
is not to hate them,
but to be indifferent to them;
that's the essence of inhumanity.

~ George Bernard Shaw

Fine Fine Fine

Still not feeling well, and I feel miserable. I hope the warmer weather gets rid of my cold. Flight to Fort Lauderdale is tomorrow morning and not looking forward to the hassle, but will trudge along for I have no choice. I have just about finished packing. I just need to round out the smallest details tomorrow, and just hope I don't forget anything too important. This is a very scaled down pack for me, item wise. Somehow outfit changes for this trip do not appeal to me. I'll be fine, I will be more than fine. All I need is the first trip to the Silhouette Lounge and I will be smashing. I must say that it will feel great to leave the cold weather right now. I am just not feeling the cold right this very moment.

"Everything will line up perfectly when knowing and living the truth becomes more important than looking good."

- Alan Cohen

Gabby's Serendipity

I've Got Sun In My Mind

I've started packing! And yes, I am going to on record as using, for the most part, the medium much-smaller luggage. I think that for this, trip, I will not be bringing too much. I found that if I put my mind to it, I can squeeze a lot of things in that smaller roll-on that I have, and I won't be wanting for things. I know I have brought enough things, and those should be enough. I don't think there will be theme parties like the ones we have at Atlantis, though I did bring a suit for the formal night. Even a necktie - Imagine that! We want to take one of those nice family pictures where we are all dressed up. Suitable for framing, you know. And yes I even fill a little bit of excitement now. I have the beginnings of a bad cold right now, and feel kind of miserable, but it would be quite nice to head south and have warm weather, and feel the salty air breeze, lay out under the sun. I brought my swimming trunks so and love the prospect of getting in the crystal blue waters. 


Gabby arrived this evening and is staying midtown. He is with his sister, who will be deployed to Afghanistan next week, and is making this her last hurrah trip before she leaves. We are meeting tomorrow and he wants his tour around the city to be food-based: hitting Serendipity, Lombardi's, and all the famous food landmarks of New York City. I told him that I prefer Ray's Pizza over Lombardi's, but we'll see where he wants to go. He might have his heart set on it. 

"Example is not the main thing in influencing others. It is the only thing."

- Albert Schweitzer

Enthuse Me

I leave for Fort Lauderdale on Saturday noon, and the cruise sets sail from there on Sunday, but... I am strangely not very excited about it. I mean, I am definitely grateful that I get to go, but it's just not the same. I think it's because I am going with family, and it won't be as freeing for me. I know I will probably babysit people and will have ti be on egg shells for part of the time, if not most of the time. As of right now, I have not even started packing. I have not even thought about packing, not even mentally. Usually, i have in my mind an idea of things I want to bring, but I do 't even think I will bring my big suitcase for this trip and will probably make do with my medium-sized one. Who would have thought, right? Me - under-packing for once (I know you're going to believe it when you see it) But I wish I were more enthused by all of it, and I suspect I will as it draws nearer. I am staying a day each before after the cruise in Fort Lauderdale and honestly those are the times I am least looking forward to. But it should be all good. I know the Solstice well enough and I know it would be virtually impossible to not have a good time there. I just hope the bartenders whom Jeff and I befriended are still there so we can get free drinks!

"True love doesn't have a happy ending, because true love never ends. Letting go is one way of saying I love you."

- Anon

Contemplatively

Hawaii On The Seas

I am such a queen. I turn the television on and it's Barbra on Oprah. It's the "ultimate tribute" to Barbra (which just coincidentally timed with the release of her coffee table book) and as a surprise, they brought out Robert Redford. Apparently, both of them have never been interviewed together. Watching the two of them together, reminiscing about the time they shot "The Way We Were" gave me goose-bumps. It was just too much for a Barbraphile like myself. And I just love Barbra being such a control freak, even in the way she designed her house. Her pond had a black and white motif, so of course she only had to have black and white fish swimming in them. Hows that for diva control? Anyway, she sang TWWW and it's amplified to death now, but still the voice is still there. It may not be as bell-like as it used to be, but I am just a fan of her low register and it seems to be more heartfelt now that the top notes aren't there anymore to hide from. In a lot of ways, her singing has become more vulnerable.


I learned today that during my family cruise next week, the Solstice one night will have "Hawaiian Luau," and I almost laughed to myself. I am sure this night party will nowhere be like the parties we have at Atlantis. I have had two back-to-back Atlantis cruises since the last time I went to a "regular" cruise so it might take a little getting used to going back to normal. But I will bring a Hawaiian themed something so I won't look like a party pooper.

"The Tao Te Ching says, When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be. When I let go of what I have, I receive what I need. Have you ever struggled to find work or love, only to find them after you have given up? This is the paradox of letting go. Let go, in order to achieve. Letting go is God's law."

- Mary Manin Morrissey

Daughters Of Sunshine

THE DAUGHTERS was written by Joanna Philbin (Regis' daughter) There was a time years ago when I used to tape "Regis  & Kathie Lee" daily and I remember appearances by his daughter, then a teenager. Well, that daughter is now an adult and has written this book. Apparently, this is just the beginning of a series of books revolving around the same characters, in this case a trio of friends whose common denominator is that all their parents are famous celebrities. One is a daughter of a supermodel, another of a famous pop star, and the last of a business impresario. Even though the book is aimed audience, it is not as dumb as you think it would be. Plus, it gives good messages about self-esteem and independence. I thought it was written well - Ms Philbin has a great way with plot points - and it is fast paced and a quick fun read. (I finished the book in a day) This was probably designed as some counterpoint to the "Gossip Girl" series (which I thought was not as well-written) and I wouldn't be surprised if it turns up as a television series, or even a movie. There's enough to like about the book, and it may even remind you of your first love. Just for that alone, reading it was not a waste of my time.   


( 4. The Daughters - Joanna Philbin)

Reboot Redux

1. So, yeah, I have been mildly following the gay storyline on the 90210 reboot, and it's been sort of interesting, if only because they picked the cutest guy, Trevor Donovan, to be the gay "token." But as cute as he is, his acting is just so wooden that you just kind of squirm when he is on. His on-screen partner, Kyle Riabko is much better, but they have zilch chemistry and you really do not believe that they would be attracted to each other. Oh, and I think I am just watching this because I *refuse* to watch DWTS and give ratings to Bristol Palin. Never, ever, ever. 


2. I have been catching up (via Netflix) on "The Good Wife," and I am hooked. I have never thought twice about Julian Marguiles but she is fantastic here, giving great nuanced performances episode after episode. It's not your traditional drama, it also has layerings of family drama, and even a romantic angle in a lot of unexpected twists and turns. Ridley Scott produces and directs episodes, apparently, so it has some pedigree. I am really impressed and Juliana is deserving of both her Golden Globe and Emmy.  And yeah, Josh Charles is still cute. 

"A rock pile ceases to be a rock pile the moment a single man contemplates it, bearing within him the image of a cathedral."

- Antoine de Saint-Exupéry,

Taking Out The Trash

It had to happen sometime. Jojo and I have been seeing a lot of theater recently and we finally encountered a clunker. I thought "Trailer Trash" would be interesting because it  was gay themed, and it was from  an independent gay and lesbian theater company but... it was one of the worst piece of trash I, anyway, have ever seen. I can't even be bothered to look up the names of the actors but they were all across the board so bad that we did the inevitable: we left after the first act. I m sure we weren't the only one, too. There was this palpable energy of exasperation fromt he audience. Inconsequential scenes dragged on,  the dialogue was childish (unintentionally) and even the nudity - Imagine! - was boring. Who ever thought that I would be so untouched by full-frontal male nudity? I wish them all well, but I am so glad we left! This is sometimes the risk one takes in going to these independent productions - they could be works in progress. Only in this case, they really need to stop working on dead wood. 

Burlesque Queens

BURLESQUE, the upcoming movie, is really exciting me. Why? Because it has so much potential. It could either be an exhilarating motion picture musical, or it could be a glorious hot mess along the lines of "Showgirls." Either ay, I think it is destined to be a camp classic. Well, if I were to base it on the soundtrack, well, it still could go either way. The music is definitely not a "traditional" in the sense that it is not a musical, but more like pop songs embedded into the movie. It is 80% Christina, 20% Cher. I have really really tried to get Christina Aguilera, and I found out that the best way for me to enjoy here is to listen to her songs individually. I like her fine, but listening to her song after song just exhausts me - that damn melisma can really give me a migraine. And listening to the soundtrack, that is still the case. They try to give her some "range," musically: there is the mildly appealing 50s style doo wop song "Something's Got A Hold On Me," and the bluesy "A Guy Takes His Time," even the immensely playful "I Am A Good Girl." Sadly, though, on record she does not truly convey any kind of character. And of course, when they give her the bombastic diva ballad, "Bound To You," she stays very very far away from subtlety. (I think she has three epileptic seizures in the course of the four minute song)  Cher fares much better, at least she personalizes her songs a bit more and you get a glimpse of the role she plays in the movie, even though her character sounds a lot like Cher. "You Still Haven't Seen The Last Of Me" sounds like 80s Cher well, and could very well be a hit.  Christina fans will love her songs, Cher fans will have wet dreams over hers. In the context of the movie, with pretty imagery, might make the songs appeal more to me. For now, though, these are just bland pop.

Morning Is Broken

After watching MORNING GLORY, I felt sad.  I felt sad for Rachel McAdams, because she deserves more than this. She has proven herself to be a more-than-competent actress, and this movie is a misfire in her otherwise impressive. resume. I felt sad for both Harrison Ford and Diane Keaton, who were both given one-dimensional roles, and no amount of mugging on both their parts can salvage their performances. I feel bad for Roger Mitchell, who directed this, since my view of him will forever be tainted even though he directed of my favorite rom-coms, "Notthing Hill." The script by Allison McKenna is so dumbed down, that even an infant would probably roll its eyes at it. It asks the age old question of news being news, or is it entertainment/ The thing is, that question has already been asked, and answered on "Broadcast News." The one and only saving grace of this film for me is that it gave me some  time, albeit short, to spend with the beauty that is Patrick Wilson but that, alas, isn't enough to not make me sad. Let me go grab my Prozac now. 

Seven Whole Days

1.  I love when I discover great things. So many of friends whose musical taste I trust have been recommending Roberta Gambarini to me for a long time now.  But I have not seen her albums on the torrent sites until recently, so when it appeared I grabbed them instantly. The ones that showed up, "So In Love," and "You Are There" are instant classics that they have become instant favorites. ('So In Love' was even nominated for a Grammy for Best Jazz Vocal Recording)  Reading about Roberta, it seems she is Italian born in Turin who was a runner up when Teri Thornton won the Monk Jazz Vocal Competition in 1998. her voice is an earthy alto reminiscent of a young Carmen McRae. And no wonder I love SIl so much: Johnny Mandel did the arrangements. 


2.  So I broke down and bought the Ricky Martin memoir  on Kindle. I wanted a book to bring with me for the Solstice, and I might as well give the business to an out homosexual (It was between him and Will Friedwald)  I saw Ricky's interview on Larry King and I was impressed, and besides, I have always liked him and want to read his journey to self-discovery. By all accounts, I hear that it is beautifully written, and I wanted something "personal" to bring with me. If I cannot be on a gay cruise, then I might as well bring a gay book, right?  Although there seems to be an "unofficial" met up of FODs at the Sunset Bar during sail away, so I might meet some "family" there. I hope. I don't know how I will handle the whole family for seven straight days.

"Every moment of your life is infinitely creative and the universe is endlessly bountiful. Just put forth a clear enough request, and everything your heart desires must come to you."

- Mahatma Gandhi

America's Boy

In this age of Augusten Burroughs and his ilk, it looks like everyone and their mothers have written memoirs. It took me a while to be really appreciative of them, honestly, since I am not a fan of Mr. Burroughs. I could be cynical you see (as if you did not know that!) I have had a cheap ARC copy of this  book, AMERICA'S BOY, by Wade Rouse,  for a while now.  I have tried to read it over and over again, but I have ended up losing interest more than a couple of times. And then I think about Maya Angelou says about reading, "Just continue, and most of the time you will find gems," and I gave this one yet another try. Well, I couldn't say that I thoroughly enjoyed  this book, but I wouldn't call it a waste of time either. For half the book, he talks about growing up in the Ozarks, and muses about the complexities and simplicities of life. Honestly, it wasn't really all that interesting, but later on I got caught up with his eccentric family, and the devastating loss of his teenage older brother. The later third of the book talks about his late-in-life coming out, and the meeting of his partner, Gary, but that story is much too ordinary. Plus, I felt he held back and we did not get the full story about them.  But I always tell myself to find the positive in things, and all through out the book, his stories are peppered about stories and descriptions about members of his family, and in the end, I really appreciated that. I don't think his story was unique enough to have warranted a book, but it seems to have been a success, and he has written two books since (actually the latter books look more appealing) so what the hell do I know?


Oh, and the cover of my ARC wasn't the final one, it was this, so anal retentive me just had to point it out.

(Wade Rouse - American Boy-3)

When The Spirit Isn't There

A friend who reads this blog says that I was a little bit unfair about my review of ELF, saying that it is not the show's fault that I don't feel Christmass-y yet, and perhaps I didn't give it a fair shot. True. I really did like the music of the show a lot, and it would be cool to revisit it, but I don't think I will. There are just too many shows out there to see to repeat something. Plus, I am sure as the season nears, tickets won't be as plentiful on TDF, if it even shows up again there.  To warm up the Holiday spirit in me, I made a playlist on my iTunes  of yuletide songs from this season's new albums, and I really must say that my new favorite Christmas song is Mariah Carey's "Christmastime Is In The Air Again," and in my mind Rosemary Clooney is singing it, and the arrangement has been enhanced by Nelson Riddle. Oh, Christmas dreams - aren't they great?


Speaking of old-fashioned, I just saw via Netflix "Love Ranch," that movie earlier this year starring Helen Merrin. The movie is just meh, but I was mesmerized by Dame Helen's performance. I swear, she gives gravita even to the slightest fo movies. And at her age she still smolders sex appeal. A thousand Paris Hiltons would be no match to her. And I love that this movie featured vocals by the wondrous Keely Smith - a nice touch to pay tribute to the singers of the classic Vegas era (that's when the movie was set) 

It is in falling down
that we learn almost everything
that matters spiritually.

~ Richard Rohr

Vet The Vet

1. When I got home this evening, I started looking for the mail because I was expecting my Netflix discs. And they were nowhere to be found. See, there are times when our mailperson mixes my mail with the people downstairs. And when they do, these downstairs people don't give it until the next day (that in itself is annoying) I was so ready to get so pissed when I realized that today is Veteran's Day...and I realized that there is no mail. So now, I feel guilty for getting  mad at basically...nothing.


2. I am still trying to get used with the non-DST thing. It's just always so...dark! Tonight past 5 pm, as I was walking home, it just felt like ten in he evening already. It makes for great neon light viewing, but it's more conducive to melancholy walking. 


3. I am very excited to watch the Corbin Fisher art film "Down On The Farm," and I expect to see some very appealing barn animals.  

We need to learn to set our course by the stars,
not by the lights of every passing ship.

~ Omar Bradley

The Elf Who Stole Christmas

Maybe I shouldn't have seen ELF so early in the holiday season. It is, on paper,  a great musical. Adapted with music by Matthew Sklar and Bob Martin, and book by Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin, it's a gem of a musical. The music was fantastic, and of the right genre. I can't remember the last time I heard such a tuneful "traditional" musical, and you will be humming the songs as you leave the theater. (I hope it gets recorded - the cast recording would be sensational) However, I didn't really feel it, and I think it may have to do with the fact that I am nowhere near close to the Christmas spirit. Imagine if it were December, and the temperature would be cold, and you were to see this show, then it would really sparkle and shine. On this mid-November night, it just seemed too...forced.  


Plus, the cast seemed...serviceable, yet no one truly signed. This would have been a perfect star vehicle for someone. Nathan Lane, perhaps? Matthew Broderick even. I am even thinking Jonathan Groff. Heck, Gavin Creel would have been just as good. But playing Buddy the Elf, Sebastian Arcelus sang well, danced well, acted well... yet  I didn't really remember him after the show. There is such a thing as "star power," and Mr. Arcelus just didn't have it. It's hard to explain what "it" really is, but if you don't have "it," there's just nothing you can do about it. And its not like the ghost of Will Ferrell (who originated the role of the Elf in the film) haunted me, since I never saw the movie.


So it just didn't work for me. I hate to be Bah Humbug, but maybe with Christmas cheer this show would work better. 

Hysteria

There must be some sort of high-alert emergency going on. It must be related to that toner/UPS terrorist thing. Why do I think that? Because, while traveling today, I noticed that the subway stations are filled with military men. I don't know what they specifically are - army, I guess? They all seem to be wearing that desert storm military uniform, so I am just assuming. Is that the standard army uniform nowadays? So, anyway, I know that when they have military people everywhere in the city, it means that there is some kind of threat, although obviously, they will not announce it in public because it will just cause mass hysteria. 


Reading the message boards this morning re: "The Fashion Show," and people are wither gaga or nada on Iman. I loved her - her ice queen mentality is so entertaining and may be the main reason for me to keep on tuning back. Plus, since I have decided to not go back to Project Runway anymore, this will fill the fashion hole. 


I was sitting at The Shake Shack today, and this not-bad looking young man was going from table to table, saying he "need $118 to go back to California" and is asking for help. Does the specificity of his request make it more authentic, I wonder.

"When the student is ready, the master appears." 

- Buddhist Proverb

Colorless

Can this really be true? Am I really seeing a Tyler Perry movie? I pinched myself today as I sat down to watch FOR COLORED GIRLS. Up until that moment, I have been a Tyler Perry virgin. I have not seen any of his movies, even though he is arguably the most successful black filmmaker of all time. I think I would eat glass first before I watch any of the Medea movies, and I have been meaning to add any or both of his "Why Did I Get Married" series on my Netflix queue but just can't do it. So I was not really looking forward to seeing this movie. But then Manola Darghis of NYT gave it a rave  and she is one tough critic, so it made me pause and reconsider. 


I hated it. I hated it because it could have been a lot better, and the potential is there. However, there wasn't a cliche that Mr. Perry did not use in this movie. The filmmaking style is a series of cliches. Five second into a scene, you know how it will end. And the story is one predictable plot after another. The characters are one stereotype after another, and each one cardboard types - nary a person is evolved and three dimensional. And everything is at Volume 10. I can appreciate over-the-top but this is over over over the top. It became pretty exhausting ten minutes into the movie, and then it no longer spoke, it just screamed and screamed and my instinct was to tune it out. I don't want to say that the acting is all bad, just that every single actor was badly directed. Only one of the actors tried to offer some subtlety : Kimberly Elise, but again the story line is so out there that you can't even really notice it. Janet Jackson's limitations are highlighted, and even Whoopi Goldberg and Phylisia Rashad look like clowns acting in a circus. Seriously, Tyler Perry can make Meryl Streep look bad. I don't think I will ever want to see a movie by him again. 

Brendan Was Just Not Into Us

Movie stars can be real weird. Jojo and I went to see "Elling" last Saturday and Jojo particularly was very excited because he has been a fan of Brendan Fraser, one of the play's stars. He brought his Blu-Ray of "The Mummy Returns" for him to sign. So after the show, we were at the stage door. One by one the cast came out, and both Jennifer Coolidge and Denis O 'Hara couldn't be more gracious - they signed playbills and posed for autographs. Then Brendan came out, if a bit flustered. He dutily signed playbills, if a bit perfunctorily, and even made a comment on Jojo's Blu-Ray, pointing at his picture and asking "Who's that guy?" Then we asked him for a photograph, and he answers "I am supposed to just sign." We patiently wait for him to finish signing, then a young woman asks him again for a photograph, to which he answers: "Sorry, but I have a phone call to make," ad goes back in through the stage door. 


But I know these tricks. Most of the time, they just wait for the crowd to subside, and then they walk out. So Jojo and I cross the street, and then we see him walk out the door. Jojo runs to him and calls out his name, gets no response. Fail! I told Jojo that perhaps, he just does not want to pose for autographs. I really cannot understand why some stars would be so picky. It literally takes less than a minute of their time, yet they cannot even spare that. They're just not into us. 

Elling Tone

ELLING at The Ethel Barrymore feels like a French farce, and perhaps it is because it is an import from Norway via London - it is based on some Norwegian novels and a film. I have to admit, it took a while for it to get going. The first third of the first act felt interminably long, but when it did finally get going, it had charm. It's a pretty small play, and is somewhat dwarfed by a big Broadway venue, though the Barrymore is one of the more intimate houses out there. By the end of the play, I found myself smiling... a lot. It has an oddity that is almost endearing. But it itself is quirky in a head-scratching way. You kind of wonder at times where the play is going, but then realize it didn't need that far to go. 


It's a character-driven comedy of two men who befriend themselves in a mental institution, and then the story follows them as they are released and have to adjust to normal life in Oslo. Denis O'Hare, in the title role has the more "showy" role, and is remarkable in the role. But then you can always count on him giving a spirited performance. Brendan Fraser has the more buffoon type role and is a competent match to Mr. O'Hare. It's his Broadway debut, so you can sense some stiffness, but it is early in the run so he should be better. Jennifer Coolidge is wonderful as the lone female in the cast, playing several roles. Richard Easton and Jeremy Shamos round out a uniformally professional cast. 


ELLING probably would be more suited on an Off-Broadway stage. But as it stands right now, it has a odd charm, like pickled herring from Oslo. If you have a forgiving pallet, you may just love it. 

                                                
                                               (With Denis O Hare)

            
                                            (With Jennifer Coolidge)

Convert

 I was talking to Pipo last night and he was telling me that because of my influence, he started watching "Brothers And Sisters," and now he is hooked.  He said every week he just can't help himself from crying. I am glad, because it is a show I dearly love, although I did tell him that this season really has not been the best. He said he sees himself and drew in the characters of Kevin and Scottie. And Sally, Sally, Sally! He loves her, and I , of course, do. I told him that in each episode, about three quarters of the way through, she has a breakdown scene! I think it's in her contract!


Remember the other day when I thought of my friend who is the biggest Ricky fan? Well, I did write him, telling him I thought of him this week during the RM media blitz, and he answered back! Here's what he said:

I know - the coverage of Ricky, aka "KIKI" is fabulous!
I got his book and started reading it and it's pretty much what you'd expect so far. No pics, sad to say, but if you've seen him on TV then you know that he's aging well!
Hope you're doing fine, too. Getting ready to take out my holiday music soon and of course that means my For Femmes CDs and I'll think of you as I listen to them!

"Helped are those who create anything at all, for they shall relive the thrill of their own conception and realize a partnership in the creation of the Universe that keeps them responsible and cheerful."

- Alice Walker

Sperm

More vintage pictures. I have been scanning like crazy, and thought this warranted a post. This was taken, oh I don't even remember what year - it was probably mid 90s sometimes, and it was taken at Pipo's apartment. Look at those walls - now his walls are all packed with antiques.  Obviously, this was taken Christmastime, and most probably this was during Thanksgiving time. I remember we used to have  yearly reunions around that time.  I had this John Richmond sperm shirt and I kind of miss it , although I would probably think twice before I would wear it now. 

"We waste a lot of time running after people we could have caught by just standing still."  

- Mignon McLaughlin

Whenever I Call You Friend

"My Best Friend Girls" gets you hooked instantly.  Even though the premise of the story is familiar, (best friend gets estranged, one gets leukemia and asks the other to take care of her daughter) but it moved pretty quickly and the characters are pretty engaging, and their emotions real and relatable that you care about them. After the first third of the book, though, characters shift gears and there are some incredulous holes in the plot that I started to roll my eyes. The main character, Kamryn, gets to be so unlikeable that I almost stopped reading. However, Ms. Koomson throws in a lot of curves in the plot. Even though the soap opera-ish story is predictable enough, she throws in a lot of wrenches that you keep turning the page. A  lot of the plot twists come out of nowhere, and without merit sometimes, but she knows how to spring a gimmick, I must say. Plus, she keeps, for the most part, the sentimentality at check. The bittersweet ending (she gives you three or four of them) is more a fizzle than a sizzle. It's not bad reading when you are stuck in the suburbs, but I already gave away my copy as soon as I finished it, and am glad I only paid a dollar for the book.

(2-Dorothy Koomson - My Best Friend's Girl)

Crazy Rhythm

I want to go home. I am still here in the 'burbs...and I feel numb, like I have no control over anything. I can't even go out. I mean, of course I can, but I have to ask someone to drive me. It was raining the whole day and I felt trapped. Like, literally. I know a lot of this is projection.  I willed myself to literally stop watching Oprah because I feel like she is making my mind rot. I would even consider going to see "For Colored Girls," and I thought I would never ever see a Tyler Perry movie. I guess I am going crazy, like I am on a verge of a nervous breakdown, which, by the way is opening tonight. I wonder if the "frozen" version is different from the one I saw? So far, reviews have been all over the place. I have always said this is a piece that will polarize people. 

"Burdens are the foundations of ease and bitter things the forerunners of pleasure." 

- Rumi

The Gift That Is Susan

It seems destined, isn't it? The Susan Boyle Christmas Album. The persona, the voice, her demographic base : all of these things just beg for her to record a Christmas record. And why should she disappoint ? Ta-Da!  "The Gift."


I think I have said before that I liked her first album, and I still do. I don't go out and seek for it, but whenever a song from it plays on my iPod, I appreciate it, and bask in its "moment." "The Gift" follows a similar path - it's pretty low-key, and I suspect it's the type of album that "creeps" to you. It isn't flashy or showy in the manner of a Mariah Carey album. Mot of the arrangements are clean, and cross the border between traditional and new-age. Even I am surprised that Ms. Boyle sings with such nuance that you really never tire of listening to her. I also like that she mixes her songs with non-traditional secular selections, such as "Don't Dream It's Over," and "Perfect Day," and she does a sweet and soft version of "Hallelujah" that makes it distinctive to other versions (I think it would be a perfect counterpoint to kd lang's strong and defiant take) But let it be known that the album fares best on the traditional Christmas carols. They soar but never overpower. I can imagine singing them while having Christmas dinner - they won't be obstructive yet still provide the perfect atmosphere for the Holidays. My favorite track: "Make Me A Channel Of Your Peace," a song we used to sing in elementary. She whispers it almost, like a prayer. God would listen. 

Oh Ricky, You're So Fine

So sue me. I was very touched by Ricky's Oprah interview, his first since 'coming out,' and may even have shed a tear or two.  He seemed much more balanced now, though I dare say too balanced. It sounds like he have had years of therapy and is just regurgitating everything he learned on those sessions.  But fine, it shouldn't matter because his message now is as relevant as ever. And Oprah kept on saying that the book is beautifully written, making me curiouser and curiouser about it. I just checked the Kindle price to be 12.99 and I kind of refuse to pay that amount for an e-Book, so I sure will be checking The Strand for an ARC although, realistically, it would cost me close to that to buy the actual book over there. And an actual book can cause clutter. So I don't know. I do want to read it, though. And he looks mighty fine, too.  And he says that he is in a relationship right now. Seeing his media blitz reminded me of my friend James Dowd, who is a huge fan of his. I remember us discussing Ricky's sexuality during "the days." I wonder what he thinks of this now. I should message him on Facebook, now that I think about it. 


Oh how about this for a treat: Pipo's winning Halloween costume:

"The strongest oak of the forest is not the one that is protected from the storm and hidden from the sun. It's the one that stands in the open where it is compelled to struggle for its existence against the winds and rains and the scorching sun.

- Napoleon Hill

Teabag This!

My sister's suburb is int he cusp of the NJ/PA border, so her cable channels both have NJ and PA local channels. Today, I was channel-surfing and chanced upon the local PA stations. Apparently, Eastern Pennsylvania stations also cover the Delaware area and I hit upon the jackpot : the political ads by that witch Christien O'Donnell. Wow - they are as freaky and as  ludicrous as she sounds. "I am you," she says and I want to say no, you are not like me. I am not a Tea Party constituent. I just saw a declaration of her opponent, Chris Coons, beating her for the Senate seat, and thank God the people of Delaware still have common sense not to vote for this horrific excuse of a candidate. I think I will steer clear of all the "Election 2010" updates tonight. It would just upset me, and in the end, nothing good will come out of it. I have been tempted to comment on some Facebook friends who have gleefully announced Republicans winning in some races, since I know it will just cause grief for all involved. You know what, I think i will just pull out my Netflix discs to watch. Right now, that seems to be the "safest" bet. 


Oh, why don't I just post this wonderful picture taken during the Equinox cruise:

"All great changes are preceded by chaos."

- Deepak Chopra

Noontime Show

In Neil LaBute's new play, "The Break Of Noon," (now playing at The Lucille Lortel) he examine the link between religion and commercialism.  John Smith (played by David Duchovny) is a lone survivor of the worst gunshot massacre in American History, and he survives because, he claims, he was saved by God, and conversed with him during those trying moments. He brings this forth to a very skeptical world, of course. The play dissects how this realization affects him in all aspects of his life. 


I must first say that the performance I saw was from its very early previews. There are a lot of things that the play wants to convey, and some points get better highlight than others. Still, it asks tough questions, and we are meant to fill in the blanks. I really don't know if I ended up thinking more or questioning more after the performance, to be honest. David Duchovny's performance is a little too "literal" right now, it seems to be playing David Duchovny a lot of the times. There is a better performance from him being hinted, and perhaps it will manifest itself after he settles into the role more. The play revolves around his character, so the weight of the play rests upon his shoulder. An audience member asks him when he was signing autographs: "When you agreed to do the play, did you know you are on every scene," to which he just smiled and replied: "I just read that it was a good play." (Good for him for wisely answering a stupid question)


The rest of the support him adequately. Amanda Peet has an electric stage presence, although the two distinct roles she play are too similar. Just like every other LaBute play, there is a tinge of misogyny, so in that case it is just business as usual. The play isn't as provocative as I thought it would be, and it doesn't really ask any question that has not been asked before. I guess also in that aspect, it's business as usual too.