I'm still really annoyed by the Winter Classic announcement today so I figured I'd give three other options that would make for great games in future years.
#1-New Jersey Devils vs. New York Rangers
Possible Location:New Yankee Stadium Bronk, NY, Meadowlands Stadium East Rutherford, NJ
This matchup is first because it's the one closest to my heart. It's one of the longest and fiercest rivalries in the NHL, and one of the most under appreciated nowadays. This used to be one of FOX's go-to games when they used to do weekend games. These two stadiums are brand new and perfect for this kind of game. The Meadowlands Stadium might be the better choice for two reasons. The NHL already has alot of history at the Meadowlands Sports Complex and it's the home of a future Super Bowl and they could use that in advertisments.
#2-Dallas Stars at Minnesota Wild
Possible Location:Target Field
To newer fans this match-up seems very random but it makes sense if you know the history behind it. The Stars were originally known as the Minnesota North Stars before moving the Texas. Have this game for all the old-school and new fans in Minnesota, after all as Commissioner Bettmann said this afternoon it is "The State of Hockey". The history of the state is your advertising.
#3-Detroit Red Wings at Colorado Avalanche
Possible Location:Corrs Field, Invesco Field at Mile High
I figure that if they are going to repeat teams, like go with a forgotten rivalry. These two teams at one time hated each other. The location would be extremely unique and I think it would be a great game. The only issue I could see would be the thin air for a hockey game, but if they could work that out, it would be a great time.
Friday, May 28, 2010
2010-2011 NHL Announcement Reactions
So the NHL chose today to make such major announcements for next season.
First of all, they chose the location and match-ups for the NHL Winter Classic.
For those who don't know, the NHL Winter Classic is a New Year's Day tradition, this will be the fourth year, and the NHL has two teams play outdoors. The first three games have been really exciting and the locations have been different.
This year the game will be held at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh as the Penguins host the Washington Capitals. While the game is great on paper, I have one major problem with it. This is only the fourth Winter Classic and they are already repeating teams? Are you serious? Pittsburgh played in the first Classic game against Buffalo. I guess it's okay because of the high profile players, but come on? There was no where else and no other teams to have in this game?
In addition to the US outdoor game, Canada has been given one too as the Flames will host the Canadiens in the 2011 Hertiage Classic at the McMahon Stadium in Calgary. It's a cool idea and I hope it happens without a hitch like the game in Pittsburgh.
Moving on, I'm very excited to see that the All-Star Game is back this year. The game will be held in Raleigh, North Carolina. I say absolutely awesome!
They also announced that the NHL Premiere games are back again. The NHL seems to love to send teams to Europe at the start of the season. This year they are sending the Bruins, Hurricanes, Blue Jackets, Wild, Coyotes and Sharks overseas. It's not a big deal, I just hope it doesn't mess up the teams when they get back like last year.
Finally the one major announcement that I'm very excited about. For years there has been a special day up in Canada, Hockey Day in Canada, where the country celebrates the sport and the major part of it is a triple-header with all six Canadian teams. Well this year the NHL and NBC are teaming up for the first ever, Hockey Day in America where there will be games and a celebration. They haven't announced all the details but it's definitely something to look forward to.
Overall, while I may not like the Winter Classic match-up, these are some very cool announcements and gives hockey fans like myself, alot to look forward to next season.
First of all, they chose the location and match-ups for the NHL Winter Classic.
For those who don't know, the NHL Winter Classic is a New Year's Day tradition, this will be the fourth year, and the NHL has two teams play outdoors. The first three games have been really exciting and the locations have been different.
This year the game will be held at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh as the Penguins host the Washington Capitals. While the game is great on paper, I have one major problem with it. This is only the fourth Winter Classic and they are already repeating teams? Are you serious? Pittsburgh played in the first Classic game against Buffalo. I guess it's okay because of the high profile players, but come on? There was no where else and no other teams to have in this game?
In addition to the US outdoor game, Canada has been given one too as the Flames will host the Canadiens in the 2011 Hertiage Classic at the McMahon Stadium in Calgary. It's a cool idea and I hope it happens without a hitch like the game in Pittsburgh.
Moving on, I'm very excited to see that the All-Star Game is back this year. The game will be held in Raleigh, North Carolina. I say absolutely awesome!
They also announced that the NHL Premiere games are back again. The NHL seems to love to send teams to Europe at the start of the season. This year they are sending the Bruins, Hurricanes, Blue Jackets, Wild, Coyotes and Sharks overseas. It's not a big deal, I just hope it doesn't mess up the teams when they get back like last year.
Finally the one major announcement that I'm very excited about. For years there has been a special day up in Canada, Hockey Day in Canada, where the country celebrates the sport and the major part of it is a triple-header with all six Canadian teams. Well this year the NHL and NBC are teaming up for the first ever, Hockey Day in America where there will be games and a celebration. They haven't announced all the details but it's definitely something to look forward to.
Overall, while I may not like the Winter Classic match-up, these are some very cool announcements and gives hockey fans like myself, alot to look forward to next season.
Stanley Cup Finals Predictions
I'll make this fast because I don't have alot to say right now.
My official pick is Hawks in 6. (I picked Hawks in 5 in my facebook predictions thread because I need the points to win)
My official pick is Hawks in 6. (I picked Hawks in 5 in my facebook predictions thread because I need the points to win)
American Idol-The Grand Finale (and Simon's Swan Song)
Well the ninth season of American Idol is officially over. We have a new American Idol. Before I get into that, let's review the week of fun action-packed singing and craziness.
Tuesday Performance Show
Instead of going song by song, I'll just go by the singer, it's easier that way.
Lee-First he gave us his choice from earlier in the season and he redid The Boxer and did a steller job. He stood out in my view. This was very evident during his second performance, the producer's choice, Everybody Hurts, when he took this R.E.M. classic and made it sound really good. It seemed like he was coming into his own big time as the night continued. Then came the big finish with U2's Beautiful Day (which, as a side note, I didn't quite understand why this year they used covers instead of original songs but alas this is the case). I thought he looked like a pure rocker here, played the crowd really well and finally looked like he belonged there.
Crystal-On the other side of the coin, we had the hottie MamaSox. She started her night with re-singing Me and Bobby McGee, and it was good. The issue I had it just didn't work for me this time around because I really liked it the first time around. When she started singing Black Velvet, I was hoping for a great performance, and unfornately I felt let down. She did a good job, but it wasn't her best performance, as a matter of fact it wasn't even the best performance of that song in Idol's history. The only song I really thought completely stood out was her redition of Solomon Burke's Up to the Mountain (MLK). It was on key, it was on point and was a great way to go out for the night.
After the night was over, I thought that Lee actually had the edge over Crystal based on performances on that night. But as for winning the title of American Idol, I figured it would end up going to Crystal.
Wednesday Result Snow
I'm going to go through analysis the show in sections because it's just easier that way.
Group Performances
I thought starting the night off with School's Out for Summer was awesome. It was very strange seeing Alice Cooper on the Idol stage though. But Mandy did call that it was Orianthi on the guitar which was very awesome. I loved the fact that they got the Bee Gees to come out and sing How Deep is Your Love with Siobhan and Aaron. It was actually well done. I thought that the girls singing Beautiful/Fighter was a brilliant choice of song. It just seems that Beautiful is following me no matter what show I watch. The Hall & Oates medley was awesome, then again I love Hall & Oates and always have.
Notable Duets
One of the perks of getting to the top 4 is that you are guaranteed a duet on finale night. This started with Michael Lynche and Michael McDonald singing Takin' It To The Streets which I thought was actually terrible. It just sounded really bad and didn't come off on television good on any level. The same can't be said for the biggest surprise of the evening with Casey James and, the guy who doesn't know how to rest, Bret Michaels singing Every Rose Has It's Thorn. That was a total surprise for everyone involved with the show and it was awesome to say the least.
The Final Two
Crystal and Lee both had their own big moments on this night with performances. First came Crystal and Alanis Morissette singing Ironic and You Oughtta Know (I wasn't a big fan of the censor job on the song but what can you do on a family show?). I thought it was perfectly done and perfect song choices for Crystal to sing on this night. As for Lee, he got to sing Chicago and did a medley and in my opinion, unless the mics were just bad, it sounded very off and I thought that Lee sang the best out of all of them. Then before the end result the two of them sang With A Little Help From My Friends with Joe Cocker and it was awesome to say the least.
Former Idol Performances
Other than the big ending, which I will get to, the other two former Idols that performed were Kris Allen and Carrie Underwood doing their new singles. I thought it was cool. Also I think there should be a rule that unless you performing with an Idol, former Idol winners should be the only ones allowed to sing by themselves on the Idol Finale. Which leads me to...
Random Celebrity Performances
All season long on results night you have bands and singers sing their new singles to plug their new albums. I have no problem with that, something needs to fill the time on results night. But on this night, I didn't tune in to see Janet Jackson and Christina Aguilera sing. That is time they could have used for something more important.
Other Performances
The only other thing of note was the performance of Pants on the Ground which everyone knew was coming. The big shocker for me was the fact they had William Hung come out and rap with him. I didn't need that. It's official, I could now go the rest of my life without ever hearing William Hung sing again.
Simon Tributes
Obviously because it was Simon Cowell's last broadcast they were going to do something big for him. I thought the little clips throughout the night were funny and perfect for him, especially the one where the judges were making fun of him. I thought Dane Cook was absolutely awful, then again I just hate the guy anyway and I don't think he's at all funny. I did think it was funny having him get interrupted by all the freaks from the past though. It was great to see Paula, but her monologue was long and just didn't hit the point at all. Sure it had Simon laughing but the crowd was like super-dead.
The two highlights for me were the My Way tribute video, which was the most touching tribute video I think I've seen on television in years. Then of course was the big Idol reunion number Together We Are One, which I will say if you didn't see it, find the video. It was awesome for anyone who has ever watched this show or just likes music. (It was a shame that David Cook wasn't there though, it might have been the only time you could have gotten all the former Idol winners on the Idol stage at the same time.)
It's definitely sad to see Simon go, the show will not be the same without him next year, it's going to be hard to replace him.
The Result
Well for me, it didn't matter who won. My top two from the very beginning made it through to the end. But I'm glad Lee won. He had a better final night and was finally come in on his own over the last few weeks.
It was a great ending to a really strange Idol season.
Tuesday Performance Show
Instead of going song by song, I'll just go by the singer, it's easier that way.
Lee-First he gave us his choice from earlier in the season and he redid The Boxer and did a steller job. He stood out in my view. This was very evident during his second performance, the producer's choice, Everybody Hurts, when he took this R.E.M. classic and made it sound really good. It seemed like he was coming into his own big time as the night continued. Then came the big finish with U2's Beautiful Day (which, as a side note, I didn't quite understand why this year they used covers instead of original songs but alas this is the case). I thought he looked like a pure rocker here, played the crowd really well and finally looked like he belonged there.
Crystal-On the other side of the coin, we had the hottie MamaSox. She started her night with re-singing Me and Bobby McGee, and it was good. The issue I had it just didn't work for me this time around because I really liked it the first time around. When she started singing Black Velvet, I was hoping for a great performance, and unfornately I felt let down. She did a good job, but it wasn't her best performance, as a matter of fact it wasn't even the best performance of that song in Idol's history. The only song I really thought completely stood out was her redition of Solomon Burke's Up to the Mountain (MLK). It was on key, it was on point and was a great way to go out for the night.
After the night was over, I thought that Lee actually had the edge over Crystal based on performances on that night. But as for winning the title of American Idol, I figured it would end up going to Crystal.
Wednesday Result Snow
I'm going to go through analysis the show in sections because it's just easier that way.
Group Performances
I thought starting the night off with School's Out for Summer was awesome. It was very strange seeing Alice Cooper on the Idol stage though. But Mandy did call that it was Orianthi on the guitar which was very awesome. I loved the fact that they got the Bee Gees to come out and sing How Deep is Your Love with Siobhan and Aaron. It was actually well done. I thought that the girls singing Beautiful/Fighter was a brilliant choice of song. It just seems that Beautiful is following me no matter what show I watch. The Hall & Oates medley was awesome, then again I love Hall & Oates and always have.
Notable Duets
One of the perks of getting to the top 4 is that you are guaranteed a duet on finale night. This started with Michael Lynche and Michael McDonald singing Takin' It To The Streets which I thought was actually terrible. It just sounded really bad and didn't come off on television good on any level. The same can't be said for the biggest surprise of the evening with Casey James and, the guy who doesn't know how to rest, Bret Michaels singing Every Rose Has It's Thorn. That was a total surprise for everyone involved with the show and it was awesome to say the least.
The Final Two
Crystal and Lee both had their own big moments on this night with performances. First came Crystal and Alanis Morissette singing Ironic and You Oughtta Know (I wasn't a big fan of the censor job on the song but what can you do on a family show?). I thought it was perfectly done and perfect song choices for Crystal to sing on this night. As for Lee, he got to sing Chicago and did a medley and in my opinion, unless the mics were just bad, it sounded very off and I thought that Lee sang the best out of all of them. Then before the end result the two of them sang With A Little Help From My Friends with Joe Cocker and it was awesome to say the least.
Former Idol Performances
Other than the big ending, which I will get to, the other two former Idols that performed were Kris Allen and Carrie Underwood doing their new singles. I thought it was cool. Also I think there should be a rule that unless you performing with an Idol, former Idol winners should be the only ones allowed to sing by themselves on the Idol Finale. Which leads me to...
Random Celebrity Performances
All season long on results night you have bands and singers sing their new singles to plug their new albums. I have no problem with that, something needs to fill the time on results night. But on this night, I didn't tune in to see Janet Jackson and Christina Aguilera sing. That is time they could have used for something more important.
Other Performances
The only other thing of note was the performance of Pants on the Ground which everyone knew was coming. The big shocker for me was the fact they had William Hung come out and rap with him. I didn't need that. It's official, I could now go the rest of my life without ever hearing William Hung sing again.
Simon Tributes
Obviously because it was Simon Cowell's last broadcast they were going to do something big for him. I thought the little clips throughout the night were funny and perfect for him, especially the one where the judges were making fun of him. I thought Dane Cook was absolutely awful, then again I just hate the guy anyway and I don't think he's at all funny. I did think it was funny having him get interrupted by all the freaks from the past though. It was great to see Paula, but her monologue was long and just didn't hit the point at all. Sure it had Simon laughing but the crowd was like super-dead.
The two highlights for me were the My Way tribute video, which was the most touching tribute video I think I've seen on television in years. Then of course was the big Idol reunion number Together We Are One, which I will say if you didn't see it, find the video. It was awesome for anyone who has ever watched this show or just likes music. (It was a shame that David Cook wasn't there though, it might have been the only time you could have gotten all the former Idol winners on the Idol stage at the same time.)
It's definitely sad to see Simon go, the show will not be the same without him next year, it's going to be hard to replace him.
The Result
Well for me, it didn't matter who won. My top two from the very beginning made it through to the end. But I'm glad Lee won. He had a better final night and was finally come in on his own over the last few weeks.
It was a great ending to a really strange Idol season.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
The Super Bowl comes to New York...errr...New Jersey!
When the news broke yesterday that Super Bowl XLVIII will be held at the Meadowlands, I was really excited. I also assumed that it was because they were putting on a dome on the new stadium. Not the case as I seem to find out. They are going to play this game outdoors on a cold February night. Insane? Definitely. Exciting? Oh hell yeah!
As someone who practically used to live at the Meadowlands for years, this was something I never thought I was going to say or ever going to see.
The funny part is that alot of people are angry about it because it's going to outdoors and cold. To those people I say this: Man Up!
This is how football should be played, outside in the elements. It's going to be a very special evening and probably the only time it will ever happen.
All I know is that I hope the Giants make it to the game, or even the Jets. Then it would be absolutely perfect.
As someone who practically used to live at the Meadowlands for years, this was something I never thought I was going to say or ever going to see.
The funny part is that alot of people are angry about it because it's going to outdoors and cold. To those people I say this: Man Up!
This is how football should be played, outside in the elements. It's going to be a very special evening and probably the only time it will ever happen.
All I know is that I hope the Giants make it to the game, or even the Jets. Then it would be absolutely perfect.
WWE NXT (5/25/10)-"The Semifinals"
Wow talk about feeling rushed. Suddenly we're down to four and the next week is the season finale? Already?
Last night when Matt Striker presented the final four that was my exact reaction. Sure it's been an iffy show from the get go and has had it's bad moments, but I have enjoyed the show as a whole. It has brought light to wrestlers that might not have gotten screen time and showed alot of promise as a concept. But alas, we are nearing the end and this is the next to last elimination.
But before I get into that, I'd be remiss to not bring up the crazy Daniel Bryan (Bryan Danielson)-Michael Cole storyline.
Last week I laughed really hard when Bryan went after Cole. It wasn't a "jump out of your seat" moment but it was sure fun. This week Cole wanted an apology and much in the style of pro wrestling, he didn't really get one, but what happened next was awesome and intense.
First of all, WWE turn Michael Cole heel permanently! The fans do not want to like him so just have him finally turn on them. Last night was full proof that he can pull it off. His promo and screaming match with Bryan was impressive and had everyone on the edge of their seats. So much so that when he called Bryan a loser with no heart and slapped him and Bryan finally completely snapped, the fans erupted. First he beat the crap out of Cole again, then headed up the ramp to where the Pros were sitting again this week. The Miz, who Bryan called earlier "the worst pro on the roster" got into his face and Bryan just flat out cold-cocked him. At that point I almost jumped out of my seat excited because I, much like alot of NXT fans, have been waiting for them to go at it for months. Please WWE, next week one the finale give us Miz vs. Bryan. It'll be the most intense match-up of the whole season.
Finally we get to the elimination. In my book it was obvious that Wade Barrett and David Otunga were going to be #1 and #2 respectively, and I was right. That left us with Justin Gabriel and Health Slater. Slater went home. As much as I liked him, I'm fine with him going home. He'll be fine, he'll show up on Smackdown soon enough.
So next week it's Barrett vs. Otunga vs. Slater. My opinion is that Barrett will end up winning the whole thing and that will be the end of the show for 2010.
Last night when Matt Striker presented the final four that was my exact reaction. Sure it's been an iffy show from the get go and has had it's bad moments, but I have enjoyed the show as a whole. It has brought light to wrestlers that might not have gotten screen time and showed alot of promise as a concept. But alas, we are nearing the end and this is the next to last elimination.
But before I get into that, I'd be remiss to not bring up the crazy Daniel Bryan (Bryan Danielson)-Michael Cole storyline.
Last week I laughed really hard when Bryan went after Cole. It wasn't a "jump out of your seat" moment but it was sure fun. This week Cole wanted an apology and much in the style of pro wrestling, he didn't really get one, but what happened next was awesome and intense.
First of all, WWE turn Michael Cole heel permanently! The fans do not want to like him so just have him finally turn on them. Last night was full proof that he can pull it off. His promo and screaming match with Bryan was impressive and had everyone on the edge of their seats. So much so that when he called Bryan a loser with no heart and slapped him and Bryan finally completely snapped, the fans erupted. First he beat the crap out of Cole again, then headed up the ramp to where the Pros were sitting again this week. The Miz, who Bryan called earlier "the worst pro on the roster" got into his face and Bryan just flat out cold-cocked him. At that point I almost jumped out of my seat excited because I, much like alot of NXT fans, have been waiting for them to go at it for months. Please WWE, next week one the finale give us Miz vs. Bryan. It'll be the most intense match-up of the whole season.
Finally we get to the elimination. In my book it was obvious that Wade Barrett and David Otunga were going to be #1 and #2 respectively, and I was right. That left us with Justin Gabriel and Health Slater. Slater went home. As much as I liked him, I'm fine with him going home. He'll be fine, he'll show up on Smackdown soon enough.
So next week it's Barrett vs. Otunga vs. Slater. My opinion is that Barrett will end up winning the whole thing and that will be the end of the show for 2010.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
More than just another reality moment...
In a time where "real" moments don't happen that much anymore, when reality tv is so over the top watered down that no one really care anymore, you have the moment that happened on Sunday night.
This time of the year people are watching their favorite shows come to a close, whether it be for the year or for good. That being said Sunday night was a very hyped night. It was Lost finale night. The big even had been hyped for months and was going to be ABC's major big ticket in the ratings, especially on a big sweeps night. Meanwhile CBS aired a major Brooks & Dunn tribute concert, which I have on my DVR, but that was more geared towards hard-core country fans, ad it was a really smart decision on this night. Fox had their Animation Domination finales, from which The Simpsons was really funny with the Idol crossover, but that has never been a huge ratings threat.
So when the ratings come out on Monday and you saw that Lost didn't get the big numbers that they were expecting (5.8 average for the entire night including a 4.0 on the pre-show), what could have happened? Well alot of people like myself were turned into NBC for the Celebrity Apprentice finale.
The show that has been really under the radar all spring. It's actually been the most intriguing, funny, emotional, nail-biting reality show in quite awhile. On this night it wasn't the tasks, the shameless promotion and seeing that Donald Trump's son has a worse head of hair than he does.
It turned into a night where a little girl with borderline diabetes gave her dad a reason to give up. It was about a man was smart enough to make a dolly-track out of a rolling chair, a board and a camera just to make sure he got the shot he needed. It was about a man who was on his death-bed a month ago walking on that stage by himself to a standing ovation. While everywhere on television on Sunday you had fantasy world to escape to, the real world was the most intriguing thing of the whole night.
It wasn't about winning the show or claiming a title anymore, that was a foregone conclusion before they went on the air. It was a man with more guts, more pride and more fortitude than anyone had ever seen.
I don't know what the future holds after this, but on this night and for now for a long while after, the man of the hour and the most talked about man in America, has now 100% clinched his legendary status.
Bret Michaels, you are the man. Get healthy and rock on!!
This time of the year people are watching their favorite shows come to a close, whether it be for the year or for good. That being said Sunday night was a very hyped night. It was Lost finale night. The big even had been hyped for months and was going to be ABC's major big ticket in the ratings, especially on a big sweeps night. Meanwhile CBS aired a major Brooks & Dunn tribute concert, which I have on my DVR, but that was more geared towards hard-core country fans, ad it was a really smart decision on this night. Fox had their Animation Domination finales, from which The Simpsons was really funny with the Idol crossover, but that has never been a huge ratings threat.
So when the ratings come out on Monday and you saw that Lost didn't get the big numbers that they were expecting (5.8 average for the entire night including a 4.0 on the pre-show), what could have happened? Well alot of people like myself were turned into NBC for the Celebrity Apprentice finale.
The show that has been really under the radar all spring. It's actually been the most intriguing, funny, emotional, nail-biting reality show in quite awhile. On this night it wasn't the tasks, the shameless promotion and seeing that Donald Trump's son has a worse head of hair than he does.
It turned into a night where a little girl with borderline diabetes gave her dad a reason to give up. It was about a man was smart enough to make a dolly-track out of a rolling chair, a board and a camera just to make sure he got the shot he needed. It was about a man who was on his death-bed a month ago walking on that stage by himself to a standing ovation. While everywhere on television on Sunday you had fantasy world to escape to, the real world was the most intriguing thing of the whole night.
It wasn't about winning the show or claiming a title anymore, that was a foregone conclusion before they went on the air. It was a man with more guts, more pride and more fortitude than anyone had ever seen.
I don't know what the future holds after this, but on this night and for now for a long while after, the man of the hour and the most talked about man in America, has now 100% clinched his legendary status.
Bret Michaels, you are the man. Get healthy and rock on!!
Monday, May 24, 2010
1961...it's not that far fetched (Can the Blackhawks do it?)
Yesterday the Hawks do something special, they swept the Sharks to get to the Stanley Cup Finals. Yes there are people who don't see the big deal in this. That's fine. But as a hockey fan, the Blackhawks, an original six team, making it to the Finals is huge. But now can they win??
They don't know who they are facing yet, the Flyers/Canadeins still have to finish their series in the East. But that being said, the one thing that can be brought up in the fact that the team with the longest active Stanley Cup drought has a chance to win.
I have different ways to look at that.
#1, streaks are meant to end. (Unless you're the Cubs, but I'm not going to go there) In my lifetime of being a sports fan, I've seen the Rangers' 54 year Cup drought end in 94, the Reds Wings' 42 year drought in 97 (going on to win 4 championships in a 12 year span) and of course saw the Red Sox win the World Series in 2004. (after the greatest comeback ever over the Yankees, sorry Flyers fans but that one was even more improbable and impressive) So now why can't the Hawks' streak finally come to an end? This is the best Hawks team I've ever seen and they have gotten him the hard way. They have won games that they had no right to win, and have shown that they will never give up no matter what. This heart is what all the teams above have in common with the Hawks.
#2, the fans. As a Devils fan, I don't know what a long streak feels like. (even as a Giants fan, 17 years isn't that big a deal in hindsight) In my lifetime I've experienced three Cups and two Super Bowl wins. (I don't count 86 as I was too young to really enjoy it or understand it) I have friends who have experienced a championship in their lifetime at all. My best friend here only has one championship in the same span, we're the same age, and that was a White Sox World Series win. Now he has a chance to experience a Stanley Cup Championship. No doubt in my mind, as much as he's been annoying me with the goal song, I want him to enjoy that feeling, it's something special.
#3, history is on the Hawks side this year. This has been a VERY historic playoffs. The Habs started a trend in the first round of showing how crazy this year was going to be. And then the Flyers had their amazing comeback over the Bruins. Now here comes the Hawks, a team who not many teams figured had a real chance of winning, had a chance to make more history. I think it can happen, why can't it??
1961 doesn't have the same ring as 1940 for a chant. There's no "curses" involved with this franchise. This is just a team with alot of history to it, that now has a major chance to make some of their own.
They don't know who they are facing yet, the Flyers/Canadeins still have to finish their series in the East. But that being said, the one thing that can be brought up in the fact that the team with the longest active Stanley Cup drought has a chance to win.
I have different ways to look at that.
#1, streaks are meant to end. (Unless you're the Cubs, but I'm not going to go there) In my lifetime of being a sports fan, I've seen the Rangers' 54 year Cup drought end in 94, the Reds Wings' 42 year drought in 97 (going on to win 4 championships in a 12 year span) and of course saw the Red Sox win the World Series in 2004. (after the greatest comeback ever over the Yankees, sorry Flyers fans but that one was even more improbable and impressive) So now why can't the Hawks' streak finally come to an end? This is the best Hawks team I've ever seen and they have gotten him the hard way. They have won games that they had no right to win, and have shown that they will never give up no matter what. This heart is what all the teams above have in common with the Hawks.
#2, the fans. As a Devils fan, I don't know what a long streak feels like. (even as a Giants fan, 17 years isn't that big a deal in hindsight) In my lifetime I've experienced three Cups and two Super Bowl wins. (I don't count 86 as I was too young to really enjoy it or understand it) I have friends who have experienced a championship in their lifetime at all. My best friend here only has one championship in the same span, we're the same age, and that was a White Sox World Series win. Now he has a chance to experience a Stanley Cup Championship. No doubt in my mind, as much as he's been annoying me with the goal song, I want him to enjoy that feeling, it's something special.
#3, history is on the Hawks side this year. This has been a VERY historic playoffs. The Habs started a trend in the first round of showing how crazy this year was going to be. And then the Flyers had their amazing comeback over the Bruins. Now here comes the Hawks, a team who not many teams figured had a real chance of winning, had a chance to make more history. I think it can happen, why can't it??
1961 doesn't have the same ring as 1940 for a chant. There's no "curses" involved with this franchise. This is just a team with alot of history to it, that now has a major chance to make some of their own.
Friday, May 21, 2010
TNA Top 10 Contenders List
10. Samoa Joe
He is one of the most popular wrestler on the roster, and for a ranking system where the fans vote, how can he be sooo low? The former ROH and TNA World Champion deserves more than this, if it's going to be one on one at Slammiversary Joe should have been gotten the shot.
9. Rob Terry
What the hell is even doing on this list? He doesn't even deserve to be the same list with the rest of these guys at all. The rest of these are former world champions or even recent #1 contenders or men have had title matches in other companies. This is ridiculous.
8. Desmond Wolf
The former ROH World Champ was the #1 Contender two weeks ago (fan vote) and now he's #8? How did he drop so far? Well at least he got some sort of a title match this month.
7. The Pope
Well the #1 contender at Lockdown dropped down in the list. Not a big deal here.
6. Abyss
Ah, Hulk Hogan's latest pet project. The former NWA World Champion is on this list just because Hogan has been putting him over like crazy since January. I like him but I don't understand why he's this high or on this list at all.
5. Mr. Anderson
This is a big surprise. Does he deserve to be on this list? Yes. Did he deserve to be this high? No not at all. Maybe him and Joe can switch places. He'll get a shot eventually but hopefully not anytime soon.
4. Jeff Hardy
Well look at this. One of the fan favorites, the former WWE Champion, is on this list and deserves his spot. I hope he get a shot at the title soon, especially with RVD as champion. If that was the main event of Slammiversary, then I would make the KOTM exception and order the show.
3. AJ Styles
The man who lost the belt to RVD, the man who is a former NWA and TNA World Champion. He deserves his spot, I would actually make him #2, He needs the belt back around his waist, it's his belt, he earned it the old fashioned way and deserves it back.
2.Kurt Angle
The former Olympian, the former WWE and TNA World Champion, he's the man in wrestling. If anyone should be #1, if should be him. But it's not .Why? Because he took a month off to heal some injuries. Fine. I can deal with that I guess.
1. Sting
This pisses me off. I don't care if Sting vs. RVD is a good match on paper. He doesn't deserve it. No way in hell. He barely wrestles as it is. Then why in the hell is he the #1 contender? Come on TNA! Really? Have you not realized he's old and doesn't have it anymore? Wow, this is the dumbest thing they did since they handed Kevin Nash a title shot a few years ago for no real reason.
I agree with the fans in the Impact Zone after this was announced.
"We want recounts! We want recounts!"
NOTE
As I was typing this, Kurt Angle announced that he doesn't want to be in the #2 spot and took himself off the Top 10 rankings. With that, everyone behind him moved up and the #10 spot was won by Kaz. Not sure how I feel about that one.
He is one of the most popular wrestler on the roster, and for a ranking system where the fans vote, how can he be sooo low? The former ROH and TNA World Champion deserves more than this, if it's going to be one on one at Slammiversary Joe should have been gotten the shot.
9. Rob Terry
What the hell is even doing on this list? He doesn't even deserve to be the same list with the rest of these guys at all. The rest of these are former world champions or even recent #1 contenders or men have had title matches in other companies. This is ridiculous.
8. Desmond Wolf
The former ROH World Champ was the #1 Contender two weeks ago (fan vote) and now he's #8? How did he drop so far? Well at least he got some sort of a title match this month.
7. The Pope
Well the #1 contender at Lockdown dropped down in the list. Not a big deal here.
6. Abyss
Ah, Hulk Hogan's latest pet project. The former NWA World Champion is on this list just because Hogan has been putting him over like crazy since January. I like him but I don't understand why he's this high or on this list at all.
5. Mr. Anderson
This is a big surprise. Does he deserve to be on this list? Yes. Did he deserve to be this high? No not at all. Maybe him and Joe can switch places. He'll get a shot eventually but hopefully not anytime soon.
4. Jeff Hardy
Well look at this. One of the fan favorites, the former WWE Champion, is on this list and deserves his spot. I hope he get a shot at the title soon, especially with RVD as champion. If that was the main event of Slammiversary, then I would make the KOTM exception and order the show.
3. AJ Styles
The man who lost the belt to RVD, the man who is a former NWA and TNA World Champion. He deserves his spot, I would actually make him #2, He needs the belt back around his waist, it's his belt, he earned it the old fashioned way and deserves it back.
2.Kurt Angle
The former Olympian, the former WWE and TNA World Champion, he's the man in wrestling. If anyone should be #1, if should be him. But it's not .Why? Because he took a month off to heal some injuries. Fine. I can deal with that I guess.
1. Sting
This pisses me off. I don't care if Sting vs. RVD is a good match on paper. He doesn't deserve it. No way in hell. He barely wrestles as it is. Then why in the hell is he the #1 contender? Come on TNA! Really? Have you not realized he's old and doesn't have it anymore? Wow, this is the dumbest thing they did since they handed Kevin Nash a title shot a few years ago for no real reason.
I agree with the fans in the Impact Zone after this was announced.
"We want recounts! We want recounts!"
NOTE
As I was typing this, Kurt Angle announced that he doesn't want to be in the #2 spot and took himself off the Top 10 rankings. With that, everyone behind him moved up and the #10 spot was won by Kaz. Not sure how I feel about that one.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Is 10 years still a big deal?
Today I was reading Entertainment Weekly and found out that Smallville is entering it's 10th and final season next year. 10 years is unreal to me. It made think back to when I found out that Cheers was going off the air after 11 years. I was too young at the time to really follow Cheers but that was a big deal to me. 11 years with almost the same cast, the show succeeded and was given this hero's farewell from NBC. Nowadays, I had a thought, is it still as big a deal?
In an era where some shows barely make it past it's first season, does any show even stand a chance anymore to last a long time? That's why the news of Smallville surprised me even more.
So I took the time to actually look up the shows that have lasted a LONG time in the TV world. (I have excluded news shows (60 Minutes, 20/20, etc), sports shows (Monday Night Football, Monday Night Raw, etc.), movie blocks (Hallmark Hall of Fame, The Wonderful World of Disney, etc), variety shows (Ed Sullivan, etc.), music shows (Grand Ole Opry Live, etc) and PBS shows.)
1, The Simpsons (21 years)2. Gunsmoke (20 years)
3. Law & Order (20 years)
4. America's Funniest Home Videos (20 years)
5. COPS (19 years)
6. The Real World (18 seasons)
7. Lassie (17 years)
8. The Amazing Race (16 seasons)
9. ER (15 years)
10. The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet (14 years)
11. Bonanza (14 years)
12. Knots Landing (14 years)
13. South Park (14 years)
14. Survivor (14 seasons)
15. King of the Hill (13 years)
16. Dallas (13 years)
17, My Three Sons (12 years)
18. NYPD Blue (12 years)
19. Murder, She Wrote (12 years)
20. Hawaii Five-O (12 years)
21. M*A*S*H (11 years)
22. Cheers (11 years)
23. Frasier (11 years)
24. Married...with Children (11 years)
25. The Jeffersons (11 years)
26. 7th Heaven (11 years)
27. Stargate SG-1 (10 years)
28. Murphy Brown (10 years)
29. Friends (10 years)
30. Law & Order:Special Victims Unit (10 years)
31. JAG (10 years)
32. Beverly Hills 90210 (10 years)
As you can see, it's a very small group of shows that last this long.
The real question I guess is, how does a show just kinda slide under the radar for so many years? The facts are that shows are given the chance to grow like they used to. I mean if you look at this list, excluding Hawaii Five-0 which is returning this fall, only EIGHT shows are still on the air right now, and three of them are reality show who don't go by years, but by seasons. So brings the list down to six. South Park is on cable, and is like Comedy Central's lifeline so that is why that lasted so long. So that brings us to FIVE shows on broadcast television
Now with the news that Law & Order is getting the heave without the big hurrah it truly deserves, do networks even care about the history of their shows?
I mean did anyone even know that AFHV was even on or that it has lasted as long as it has? Of course not because ABC doesn't EVER take advantage of it and even advertise it. Somehow that show survives,
FOX at least takes the time to brag about how long The Simpsons has been on and you know when the creators decide to hang it up, they will get the big finale it deserves, unlike another FOX legendry show Married...with Children. That's a show that just ended with no big deal at all, despite it being the first show that brought attention to the network.
Even the WB recognized 7th Heaven when it went off the air the first time as it's first big show and the one show that lasted the entire run of the network, CW not so much when it ended the second time.
Now we have Smallville, a major cult favorite. A show that really in my opinion has flown under the radar because of being on the CW. Next year is it's big final year, I hope upon hope that it gets the farewell it deserves. I mean it started as "yet another Superman show" and lasted this long, it deserves a big hurrah. I hope it gets it, or it will further prove my point that I don't think network truly care about shows that last to this historic of a level.
NOTE:
When I began this article it was before it was announced that another show will hit the 10 year mark next year. American Idol. But without Simon Cowell, I don't know if the show will be the same. But next year, the show that changed the music scene, will make history like no other reality ever has before.
In an era where some shows barely make it past it's first season, does any show even stand a chance anymore to last a long time? That's why the news of Smallville surprised me even more.
So I took the time to actually look up the shows that have lasted a LONG time in the TV world. (I have excluded news shows (60 Minutes, 20/20, etc), sports shows (Monday Night Football, Monday Night Raw, etc.), movie blocks (Hallmark Hall of Fame, The Wonderful World of Disney, etc), variety shows (Ed Sullivan, etc.), music shows (Grand Ole Opry Live, etc) and PBS shows.)
1, The Simpsons (21 years)2. Gunsmoke (20 years)
3. Law & Order (20 years)
4. America's Funniest Home Videos (20 years)
5. COPS (19 years)
6. The Real World (18 seasons)
7. Lassie (17 years)
8. The Amazing Race (16 seasons)
9. ER (15 years)
10. The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet (14 years)
11. Bonanza (14 years)
12. Knots Landing (14 years)
13. South Park (14 years)
14. Survivor (14 seasons)
15. King of the Hill (13 years)
16. Dallas (13 years)
17, My Three Sons (12 years)
18. NYPD Blue (12 years)
19. Murder, She Wrote (12 years)
20. Hawaii Five-O (12 years)
21. M*A*S*H (11 years)
22. Cheers (11 years)
23. Frasier (11 years)
24. Married...with Children (11 years)
25. The Jeffersons (11 years)
26. 7th Heaven (11 years)
27. Stargate SG-1 (10 years)
28. Murphy Brown (10 years)
29. Friends (10 years)
30. Law & Order:Special Victims Unit (10 years)
31. JAG (10 years)
32. Beverly Hills 90210 (10 years)
As you can see, it's a very small group of shows that last this long.
The real question I guess is, how does a show just kinda slide under the radar for so many years? The facts are that shows are given the chance to grow like they used to. I mean if you look at this list, excluding Hawaii Five-0 which is returning this fall, only EIGHT shows are still on the air right now, and three of them are reality show who don't go by years, but by seasons. So brings the list down to six. South Park is on cable, and is like Comedy Central's lifeline so that is why that lasted so long. So that brings us to FIVE shows on broadcast television
Now with the news that Law & Order is getting the heave without the big hurrah it truly deserves, do networks even care about the history of their shows?
I mean did anyone even know that AFHV was even on or that it has lasted as long as it has? Of course not because ABC doesn't EVER take advantage of it and even advertise it. Somehow that show survives,
FOX at least takes the time to brag about how long The Simpsons has been on and you know when the creators decide to hang it up, they will get the big finale it deserves, unlike another FOX legendry show Married...with Children. That's a show that just ended with no big deal at all, despite it being the first show that brought attention to the network.
Even the WB recognized 7th Heaven when it went off the air the first time as it's first big show and the one show that lasted the entire run of the network, CW not so much when it ended the second time.
Now we have Smallville, a major cult favorite. A show that really in my opinion has flown under the radar because of being on the CW. Next year is it's big final year, I hope upon hope that it gets the farewell it deserves. I mean it started as "yet another Superman show" and lasted this long, it deserves a big hurrah. I hope it gets it, or it will further prove my point that I don't think network truly care about shows that last to this historic of a level.
NOTE:
When I began this article it was before it was announced that another show will hit the 10 year mark next year. American Idol. But without Simon Cowell, I don't know if the show will be the same. But next year, the show that changed the music scene, will make history like no other reality ever has before.
TNA, my foot is finally down!
Ever since January TNA has been going through alot of changes. Some good (RVD and Jeff Hardy), some very bad (the Monday night experiment). But now it's the time of year for Slammiversary. TNA's yearly anniversary show. I've ordered everyone since the first one back in 2005. It's one of my favorite PPVs of the year, most companies, and it's because of one match. The King of the Mountain match.
Every year, no matter how bad TNA storylines are or how much crap they put on TV, I look forward to the King of the Mountain match. Last year they even had two, a heavyweight one and a x-division one.
For those who don't know, the King of the Mountain match is a reverse ladder match where you have to hang the belt to win. But there's a catch. In order to qualify to hang the belt you must get a pin-fall or submission on any of the other four guys in the match. The guy you pin or make summit must then spend two minutes in the penalty box, which is set up outside the ring. Some people call it confusing, but I think it's extremely entertaining especially once you get into the match.
Well this year, I've been hearing a rumor that instead of a KOTM match at Slammiversary, they are going to have RVD defending the TNA World Heavyweight Championship against Sting. Are you kidding me? Way to break tradition.
So TNA, I will say, if this is true, I'm out. For the first time, I will NOT be ordering Slammiversary. For the first time this year, I'm actually putting my foot down as a TNA loyal fan and saying enough with all change already. I've handling taking away the six-sided ring. I went with you through the disaster that was the Monday night experiment. But now, with this new development, TNA I'm not going along with this one at all. I'm not a happy TNA fan, not anymore.
Every year, no matter how bad TNA storylines are or how much crap they put on TV, I look forward to the King of the Mountain match. Last year they even had two, a heavyweight one and a x-division one.
For those who don't know, the King of the Mountain match is a reverse ladder match where you have to hang the belt to win. But there's a catch. In order to qualify to hang the belt you must get a pin-fall or submission on any of the other four guys in the match. The guy you pin or make summit must then spend two minutes in the penalty box, which is set up outside the ring. Some people call it confusing, but I think it's extremely entertaining especially once you get into the match.
Well this year, I've been hearing a rumor that instead of a KOTM match at Slammiversary, they are going to have RVD defending the TNA World Heavyweight Championship against Sting. Are you kidding me? Way to break tradition.
So TNA, I will say, if this is true, I'm out. For the first time, I will NOT be ordering Slammiversary. For the first time this year, I'm actually putting my foot down as a TNA loyal fan and saying enough with all change already. I've handling taking away the six-sided ring. I went with you through the disaster that was the Monday night experiment. But now, with this new development, TNA I'm not going along with this one at all. I'm not a happy TNA fan, not anymore.
American Idol 5/18/10-No Place like Home
Well this is a huge night for Idol. It's down to the top three, the Idols returned home this week and the judges chose one of their two songs tonight. It was a very up and down show last night, but most of the downs surrounded around one man.
Casey James-Ok, It's Alright With Me
Well, I don't even know what song this is. Even Kara mentioned it was an unfamiliar to most viewers. It was actually pretty blah and boring. After watching this, I was questioning the point of him being here. I don't know what else to say. (2 out of 5)
Crystal Bowersox-Come to My Window
This was really good, but not her best. I mean I love this song, but it did feel really safe. Didn't completely blow me away, especially for her. I love her but she definitely got out shined on this night. (3 of 5)
Lee DeWyze-Simple Man
The man everyone is talking about today. It seems like this song is that other song he sang, but after looking at things, this was actually the better song. It made him sound like a mellow-rocker. He hit his notes and the crowd was electric for it. Nothing seemed forced and it seemed like he finally broke out and said "look this is my competition to win!" (5 of 5)
Casey-Daughters
This song was chosen by Randy and Kara. It was good for him, but again not great and actually got very very boring. Especially in this house since we started the show late. The song worked for him, three or four weeks ago. (3 of 5)
Crystal-Maybe I'm Amazed
Ellen chose this song for her and it really surprised me. It definitely was better than her first performance. She looked really sexy and actually worked the stage like a real professional, something she never did in the past, or just wasn't good at doing. It worked big time for her. (4 of 5)
Lee-Hallelujah
Can I first say that I LOVE this song? Simon chose this song for him and then hyped it to death. But then he sang it. It was great, amazing to say the least. But then the choir came out. It was really cool to see it but I don't really think he needed it and it seemed to throw him off a little. But overall it was incredible. (4 of 5)
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE let it be Lee vs. Crystal next week. It will be one of the best finales ever if it comes down to them. Hopefully America doesn't mess this up.
Casey James-Ok, It's Alright With Me
Well, I don't even know what song this is. Even Kara mentioned it was an unfamiliar to most viewers. It was actually pretty blah and boring. After watching this, I was questioning the point of him being here. I don't know what else to say. (2 out of 5)
Crystal Bowersox-Come to My Window
This was really good, but not her best. I mean I love this song, but it did feel really safe. Didn't completely blow me away, especially for her. I love her but she definitely got out shined on this night. (3 of 5)
Lee DeWyze-Simple Man
The man everyone is talking about today. It seems like this song is that other song he sang, but after looking at things, this was actually the better song. It made him sound like a mellow-rocker. He hit his notes and the crowd was electric for it. Nothing seemed forced and it seemed like he finally broke out and said "look this is my competition to win!" (5 of 5)
Casey-Daughters
This song was chosen by Randy and Kara. It was good for him, but again not great and actually got very very boring. Especially in this house since we started the show late. The song worked for him, three or four weeks ago. (3 of 5)
Crystal-Maybe I'm Amazed
Ellen chose this song for her and it really surprised me. It definitely was better than her first performance. She looked really sexy and actually worked the stage like a real professional, something she never did in the past, or just wasn't good at doing. It worked big time for her. (4 of 5)
Lee-Hallelujah
Can I first say that I LOVE this song? Simon chose this song for him and then hyped it to death. But then he sang it. It was great, amazing to say the least. But then the choir came out. It was really cool to see it but I don't really think he needed it and it seemed to throw him off a little. But overall it was incredible. (4 of 5)
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE let it be Lee vs. Crystal next week. It will be one of the best finales ever if it comes down to them. Hopefully America doesn't mess this up.
CMT Awards Predicitions
The CMT Awards are happening on June 9th and I know I will be watching, so since I am voting, I will make my picks known as well.
Breakthrough Video of the Year
Breakthrough Video of the Year
- Easton Corbin-A Little More Country Than That
- Laura Bell Bundy-Giddy On Up
- Luke Bryan-Do I?-My Pick
- Steel Magnolia-Keep On Lovin' You
- Reba McEntire-Consider Me Gone-My Pick
- Tim McGraw-Southern Voice
- Brad Paisley-Then
- Lady Antebellum-Lookin' for a Good Time
- Carrie Underwood-Temporary Home
- Kellie Pickler and Taylor Swift-Best Days of Your Life
- Blake Shelton and Trace Adkins-Hillbilly Bone-My Pick
- Jason Aldean and Bryan Adam-Heaven
- Kenny Chesney and Dave Matthews-I'm Alive
- Brooks & Dunn-Indian Summer-My Pick
- Steel Magnolia-Keep On Lovin' You
- Sugarland-Keep You
- Sugarland-Nightswimming/Joey
- Rascal Flatts-Here Comes Goodbye
- Gloriana-How Far Do You Wanna Go?
- Lady Antebellum-Need You Now
- Zac Brown Band-Toes-My Pick
- Reba McEntire-Consider Me Gone
- Miranda Lambert-White Liar
- Carrie Underwood-Cowboy Casanova
- Taylor Swift-You Belong With Me-My Pick
- Toby Keith-American Ride
- Billy Currington-People Are Crazy-My Pick
- Tim McGraw-Southern Voice
- Keith Urban-Til Summer Comes Around
- Jason Aldean-The Truth
- Toby Keith-American Ride
- Carrie Underwood-Cowboy Casanova
- Lady Antebellum-Need You Now
- Kenny Chesney-Out Last Night
- Keith Urban-Til Summer Comes Around
- Zac Brown Band-Toes
- Jason Aldean-The Truth
- Brad Paisley-Welcome to the Future-My Pick
- Miranda Lambet-White Liar
- Taylor Swift-You Belong With Me
TV Show Fall Analyis (Early Version)
It's the time of the year when we find out the fates of our favorite television shows, especially on the big four networks. As of this morning all the schedules for the fall (and some next spring) have been released. (I will not comment on the content of *most* new shows till my next report and I find out more about them.)
CBS
Big Surprises:
First of all the cancellations of Cold Case, Ghost Whisperer and New Adventures of Old Christine caught me off guard. I always heard good things about Cold Case from people so I figured it had a fan base. As for Ghost Whisperer, the ratings were low, but it always lead Friday nights. And Christine I thought was more popular, I guess I was wrong.
As for the schedule, moving Big Bang Theory to Thursday caught me off guard but it might actually be good for the show to get even higher rating then it already is getting. The rest looks good to me, nothing crazy.
WTF Moments:
Okay, I'll bite. I'm going to have to watch S--- My Dad Says after Big Bang just for the curious factors. Finally, Hawaii Five-0 is back? Really? Who's idea was that one?
I will say, I loved Accidentally on Purpose. I thought it was a funny quirky show that took a little while to get used to. But I do appreciate the fact that at least the season finale closed all the storylines so there are no loose ends making this show ending not as big of a deal as others.
ABC
Big Surprises:
The only real big surprise was that they kept V on but canceled FlashForward. I figured, by people who have watched both shows, that it would have been the other way around. But alas, that's the decision they made. Also Scrubs finally getting canceled is NOT a big deal, it should have ended last year.
I'm not a big ABC watcher anymore to be quite honest. I think it's a very good move to have a full comedy night on Wednesdays. But other than that, no major shakeups or changes.
NBC
Big Surprises:
Number one with a bullet is the cancellation of Law & Order. The TV stable should have at least had a chance to say goodbye the right way. I mean I hear there is going to be a big TV movie sometime next year but still they should have gotten the chance the Ugly Betty and Lost got to say goodbye to their fans the right way. Also the same could be said for Heroes, which I know the ratings have been down since season one but still give it a chance to end with class. I also find it amusing that Wednesdays have officially turned into cop drama night with this new show Undercovers, L&O:SVU and the new spin-off L&O:LA.
I do like the fact that they kept Tuesdays in tact though with Biggest Loser and Parenthood staying back-to-back, I think that's huge because that's NBC's biggest night ratings wise, even bigger than their comedy block on Thursday night. I am also happy that Celebrity Apprentice is returning next year. I was never a fan of the original show but I love the celebrity version big time.
FOX
Big Surprises:
I have to admit, I didn't expect FOX to renew The Cleveland Show and keep it on their Animation Domination block on Sunday nights. Most people I've talked to that watch it said it's lame and kinda dumb, then again the same could be said for American Dad and that show is still going strong. As for Til Death, I will say the same thing I said about Scrubs, it should have been canceled a long time ago. I tried to watch this season and it was really terrible.
Scheduling Change-ups:
The big change-ups include three of FOX's biggest shows, Glee, American Idol and Hell's Kitchen. Personally I love the fact that Glee is moving to the lead-in spot on Tuesday nights in the Fall. I think that's a HUGE move. The show deserves the chance to show how good it can be in by itself in the ratings. What I don't like is moving it to Wednesday nights at 9pm in the Spring. I think that's going to really confuse fans, so I hope they do a good job advertising the move because if not it could suffer from a massive drop. As for Idol, the Tuesday performance show is being extended to a hour and a half and the Wednesday results show is now a half hour. I like the idea of the results show being a half hour (and it is the lead-in for Glee) but not sure if even I could sit through a hour and half Idol show especially when it's down to the last couple of weeks. Hell's Kitchen is moving to Wednesday nights instead of Tuesday nights which I don't agree with personally. I have problems with the show moving time slots in the middle of a run and I don't really see a major issue with it following Glee, but then again the audience for both shows are very different so that might have something to do with it.
That's what the big four have announced for now for next year. It seems interesting for now. I wonder if they will change anything between now and August when the big fall preview issues come out.
CBS
Big Surprises:
First of all the cancellations of Cold Case, Ghost Whisperer and New Adventures of Old Christine caught me off guard. I always heard good things about Cold Case from people so I figured it had a fan base. As for Ghost Whisperer, the ratings were low, but it always lead Friday nights. And Christine I thought was more popular, I guess I was wrong.
As for the schedule, moving Big Bang Theory to Thursday caught me off guard but it might actually be good for the show to get even higher rating then it already is getting. The rest looks good to me, nothing crazy.
WTF Moments:
Okay, I'll bite. I'm going to have to watch S--- My Dad Says after Big Bang just for the curious factors. Finally, Hawaii Five-0 is back? Really? Who's idea was that one?
I will say, I loved Accidentally on Purpose. I thought it was a funny quirky show that took a little while to get used to. But I do appreciate the fact that at least the season finale closed all the storylines so there are no loose ends making this show ending not as big of a deal as others.
ABC
Big Surprises:
The only real big surprise was that they kept V on but canceled FlashForward. I figured, by people who have watched both shows, that it would have been the other way around. But alas, that's the decision they made. Also Scrubs finally getting canceled is NOT a big deal, it should have ended last year.
I'm not a big ABC watcher anymore to be quite honest. I think it's a very good move to have a full comedy night on Wednesdays. But other than that, no major shakeups or changes.
NBC
Big Surprises:
Number one with a bullet is the cancellation of Law & Order. The TV stable should have at least had a chance to say goodbye the right way. I mean I hear there is going to be a big TV movie sometime next year but still they should have gotten the chance the Ugly Betty and Lost got to say goodbye to their fans the right way. Also the same could be said for Heroes, which I know the ratings have been down since season one but still give it a chance to end with class. I also find it amusing that Wednesdays have officially turned into cop drama night with this new show Undercovers, L&O:SVU and the new spin-off L&O:LA.
I do like the fact that they kept Tuesdays in tact though with Biggest Loser and Parenthood staying back-to-back, I think that's huge because that's NBC's biggest night ratings wise, even bigger than their comedy block on Thursday night. I am also happy that Celebrity Apprentice is returning next year. I was never a fan of the original show but I love the celebrity version big time.
FOX
Big Surprises:
I have to admit, I didn't expect FOX to renew The Cleveland Show and keep it on their Animation Domination block on Sunday nights. Most people I've talked to that watch it said it's lame and kinda dumb, then again the same could be said for American Dad and that show is still going strong. As for Til Death, I will say the same thing I said about Scrubs, it should have been canceled a long time ago. I tried to watch this season and it was really terrible.
Scheduling Change-ups:
The big change-ups include three of FOX's biggest shows, Glee, American Idol and Hell's Kitchen. Personally I love the fact that Glee is moving to the lead-in spot on Tuesday nights in the Fall. I think that's a HUGE move. The show deserves the chance to show how good it can be in by itself in the ratings. What I don't like is moving it to Wednesday nights at 9pm in the Spring. I think that's going to really confuse fans, so I hope they do a good job advertising the move because if not it could suffer from a massive drop. As for Idol, the Tuesday performance show is being extended to a hour and a half and the Wednesday results show is now a half hour. I like the idea of the results show being a half hour (and it is the lead-in for Glee) but not sure if even I could sit through a hour and half Idol show especially when it's down to the last couple of weeks. Hell's Kitchen is moving to Wednesday nights instead of Tuesday nights which I don't agree with personally. I have problems with the show moving time slots in the middle of a run and I don't really see a major issue with it following Glee, but then again the audience for both shows are very different so that might have something to do with it.
That's what the big four have announced for now for next year. It seems interesting for now. I wonder if they will change anything between now and August when the big fall preview issues come out.
WWE NXT 5/18/10
After last week's triple elimination, I was skeptical that this week's show was even going to be worth watching. Fine there would be yet ANOTHER elimination, but what else would there be?? Well I was pleasantly surprised.
First of all, I loved the fact that the pros were out on the stage all show. (But where were R-Truth and Carlito?) They actually added alot and made the show feel more legit.
Second, the Bryan Danielson-Michael Cole fight was priceless and awesome. It was needed. Again helped make the show feel real. I can't wait to see where this goes in weeks to come.
Finally the elimination of Darren Young was well done. He went out with class and style and actually showed why he deserves to be with the company down the road.
That's about it for this week's show. It was pretty much short and sweet because there wasn't alot of other notable things going out.
First of all, I loved the fact that the pros were out on the stage all show. (But where were R-Truth and Carlito?) They actually added alot and made the show feel more legit.
Second, the Bryan Danielson-Michael Cole fight was priceless and awesome. It was needed. Again helped make the show feel real. I can't wait to see where this goes in weeks to come.
Finally the elimination of Darren Young was well done. He went out with class and style and actually showed why he deserves to be with the company down the road.
That's about it for this week's show. It was pretty much short and sweet because there wasn't alot of other notable things going out.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Get rid of the guest hosts...
Last year on Monday Night Raw, they announced a concept where they would have a different "celebrity" guest host every week and that person would run the show like a general manager.
This was put into place originally as a summer ratings-boaster and then ended up sticking around because it was starting to catch on. Then they said that it would be over at Wrestlemania. Then they continued it because of TNA moving to Mondays. Now TNA is back on Thursday night.
It was a great idea at first. A few highlights included Bob Baker, Shaq, Floyd Mayweather, Ben Roethlisberger, Nancy O'Dell, The Osbournes, Mark Cuban, Mike Tyson and William Shatner. (not including the wrestlers that did it like Stone Cold, Piper, Jesse Ventura, Trish, DiBiase and Dust Rhodes) But for every good host, we have Jerry Springer, ZZ Top, Dennis Miller, Criss Angel and the guys from Hot Tub Time Machine and MacGrauber.
The key was that they were "running the show" and could do whatever they wanted, so the concept works. Well last week on Raw they announced that the "guest hosts" would lose their power. So now what's the point? Publicity? Fine have a celebrity show up every so often. But last night was the last straw for me.
During the commercial-free special Raw, they brought out Buzz Aldrin, and with all respect to an American legend, what the hell was he doing in Canada on a wrestling show last night? What was the point? Was it to show how the old man can't follow a script because that was evident? Was it to show that they couldn't get any Canadian legends to host the show? Or was it just a cry for help that they are running out of legit celebrities to have on the show.
With a few exceptions, Betty White, Neil Patrick Harris maybe, The Rock would great, let's please get this guest host crap. Next week they are supposed to announce a new official GM. With that announcement can it please end this pop-culture experiment? It's become a stupid joke at this point, and the only reason that people didn't tune away last night was because it was commercial-free and they offered us a good main-event.
So WWE, I ask as a long-time fan, can we please put an end to the guest host concept? It's old and getting to be more of embarrassment every week.
This was put into place originally as a summer ratings-boaster and then ended up sticking around because it was starting to catch on. Then they said that it would be over at Wrestlemania. Then they continued it because of TNA moving to Mondays. Now TNA is back on Thursday night.
It was a great idea at first. A few highlights included Bob Baker, Shaq, Floyd Mayweather, Ben Roethlisberger, Nancy O'Dell, The Osbournes, Mark Cuban, Mike Tyson and William Shatner. (not including the wrestlers that did it like Stone Cold, Piper, Jesse Ventura, Trish, DiBiase and Dust Rhodes) But for every good host, we have Jerry Springer, ZZ Top, Dennis Miller, Criss Angel and the guys from Hot Tub Time Machine and MacGrauber.
The key was that they were "running the show" and could do whatever they wanted, so the concept works. Well last week on Raw they announced that the "guest hosts" would lose their power. So now what's the point? Publicity? Fine have a celebrity show up every so often. But last night was the last straw for me.
During the commercial-free special Raw, they brought out Buzz Aldrin, and with all respect to an American legend, what the hell was he doing in Canada on a wrestling show last night? What was the point? Was it to show how the old man can't follow a script because that was evident? Was it to show that they couldn't get any Canadian legends to host the show? Or was it just a cry for help that they are running out of legit celebrities to have on the show.
With a few exceptions, Betty White, Neil Patrick Harris maybe, The Rock would great, let's please get this guest host crap. Next week they are supposed to announce a new official GM. With that announcement can it please end this pop-culture experiment? It's become a stupid joke at this point, and the only reason that people didn't tune away last night was because it was commercial-free and they offered us a good main-event.
So WWE, I ask as a long-time fan, can we please put an end to the guest host concept? It's old and getting to be more of embarrassment every week.
Monday, May 17, 2010
VH1 Top 20 5/15/10
Every Sunday morning, I watch the VH1 Top 20, so I've decided to go through the countdown on a weekly bias and give my reaction and comments to the videos and the countdown.
5/15/10:
#20-Nickelback-This Afternoon (Debut)
There are alot of people who have problems with Nickelback. I'm a fan but for some reason there's alot, ALOT of hate for them. But in this video, very Revenge of the Nerd-esce, they totally made fun of themselves. I like the song alot but the video definitely had a different feel just with the line "You brought me Nickelback?!?!" Very fun.
#19-Rihanna-Rude Boy (down 4 spots)
My hatred for Rihanna is very well known. I don't like her. I don't like her music. I think she's annoying and just isn't attractive to make up for it. When I watch the countdown DVRed I fast-forward through her videos. I'm just not a fan at all. So I was very happy to see this song almost fully crashing and burning and it didn't even get shown in full so I was even happier.
#18-Jack Johnson-You and Your Heart (Debut)
This is a new song for me. Not sure if I like it yet. It's not terrible. Just have to hear it more often. The video has nothing to really do with the song, But it's alright, take time to get used to it.
#17-Taio Cruz & Ludacris-Break Your Heart (up 3)
I can't even explain why I love this song. It's catchy and really honest. The video is dead on with the song. The other thing with this song is while it's very catchy, it gets stuck in your head for hours. It's rare I like a Ludacris song, but this one really works.
#16-Theory Of A Deadman-All Or Nothing (down 3)
It took me a few weeks, but I now really like this song. It's actually a really romantic rock song. They don't come around often. So this song and video really works, hope it sticks around for a while.
#15-Angel Taylor-Like You Do (down 3)
This is such a corny little song. The video is so fitting in the coffee shop. It's that feel. I like this song, it's very cute. There's not much else to it. It's a catching cute corny ditty.
#14-La Roux-Bulletproof (up 4)
This is a very very very strange song. It has annoying beat, the words make no sense, the video is very chaotic and the girl is okay to look at, but not hot. Then why is it even on this countdown? It took me a few weeks but one afternoon it dawned on me. It's the chorus. When you listen to this song, all you remember is the chorus and you catch yourself singing it hours later. Thus this song is popular and now I understand why.
#13-Alpha Rev-New Morning (up 4)
Who are these guys? Am I really that much out of the rock loop that I have no idea what song this even is? It's very slow and morbid, I really don't like it. I can see why it's popular, but it bores me. The video is just as boring.
#12-Lady Antebellum-Need You Now (down 5)
How the mighty have fallen. This was a top 1 song. It jumped up this countdown extremely fast and became country music's latest cross-over hit. And now just as quickly it is sinking. I love this song, Hillary Scott is hot, nothing else to say there.
#11-Christina Aguilera-Not Myself Tonight (down 2)
What the hell? Where did this come from? No offense to Christina Aguilera but this song is bad, even for terrible pop songs. And the video is even worse. She found a way to make looking like a whore, dressing like a song and lesbianism feel unattractive and boring. This video so far fetched and over-the-top sexy, so much so that it's reaching too much. Just doesn't work and shouldn't have been made.
#10-Bon Jovi-Superman Tonight (up 4)
Yay! Bon Jovi is back in the top 10! Great song! This video is amazing and tells the story of the song perfectly. If you haven't seen this video, you have to. It's amazing and should be a number one video. Maybe one day.
#9-B.o.B. & Bruno Mars-Nothin' On You (up 2)
Ah, another really good song moving into the top 10. This song is fantastic actually. Another unexpected love anthem. The computer work done in this video is perfect for explaining the song's story. Not much else for me to say but I will have no problem seeing this song skyrocketing even higher in weeks to come.
#8-Jason DeRulo-In My Head (down 4)
I was convinced this song was going to be the #1 song this week because he was the guest. It seems to be how it works. But in all seriousness, this song is alright. Not one that I personally like, but I wouldn't argue to dancing to it at the bar or something like that, as it is a sexy dance song. Just don't like him.
#7-Lady Gaga & Beyonce-Telephone (down 2)
I know I'm going to killed for my feelings on this song. I think this song is just annoying, the dancing is terrible and it's just a stupid song and video. Too much work went into this video, a simple format might have been easier. But in a different light, this video did help me in an argument at work. There was a discussion about whether or not Lady Gaga is a man or not. I said that after watching this video, she is DEFINITELY female. Just watch the first 2 minutes of the short form if you really are questioning that.
#6-Muse-Uprising (up 2)
The fans of this band confuse me, big time. Two weeks ago the song Resistance was on the countdown, I was just getting used it and it was getting popular. Then suddenly, out of nowhere, last week the Muse fans voted this song onto the countdown. This is the older song from last year, but it's actually the better of the two songs. I like it better, I just didn't expect it at all. I didn't know you could vote a song onto the countdown after it was already on the year end special from the year before. I guess this like TRL rules right?
#5-Usher and will.I.am-OMG (up 5, leap of the week)
When this song debuted on the countdown, again out of where, I was okay with it because I didn't like the previous single. But now weeks later, I miss the video for Little Freak. At least the terribleness of this song was disguised with the hotness of the girls in it and the story it told. But onto this song, just a boring video and annoying beat. I don't get why this is so popular, except that it's Usher.
#4-The Script-Breakeven (down 1)
I really liked this song originally. It was a very good song. I'm a stickler for breakup songs or songs about heartbreak. For me, depressing songs are fantastic, I've always felt that way. But then VH1 started airing the Unplugged version, and I love this one even more. The acoustic sound works so well with the beat of the song and it added alot to the story.
#3-Adam Lambert-Whataya Want From Me (up 3)
Ah, Mr. Lambert. I just can't get you off my TV can I? At this song isn't half bad or I'd be more pissed about it. I'm convinced the only way I'm going to finally get rid of you is the 20/20 club, and that's coming very soon. The video ain't bad, and like I said the song is okay, but I'm so over Lambert at this point, that I just want to move on.
#2-Jay-Z & Mr. Hudson-Young Forever (down 1)
This song makes me laugh. It's so obvious that the name of this song should be "Forever Young" but they couldn't use that title. If this was just a Jay-Z song, it wouldn't be that good, just to be honest. But Mr. Hudson brings soo much to this song with the chorus riff and occasionally singing. The video is really good to tell the story of this song. I completely understand the popularity of this song. No doubt.
#1-Colbie Caillat-I Never Told You (up 1)
Wow, this song came out of nowhere. This was a HUGE surprise, but a very pleasant one. I really like this song and video. Back to my love and depressing song. It also helps that she's a total cutie. She deserves this push to the top, it probably won't last long, but it'll be fun while it last. Very awesome way to end the show.
5/15/10:
#20-Nickelback-This Afternoon (Debut)
There are alot of people who have problems with Nickelback. I'm a fan but for some reason there's alot, ALOT of hate for them. But in this video, very Revenge of the Nerd-esce, they totally made fun of themselves. I like the song alot but the video definitely had a different feel just with the line "You brought me Nickelback?!?!" Very fun.
#19-Rihanna-Rude Boy (down 4 spots)
My hatred for Rihanna is very well known. I don't like her. I don't like her music. I think she's annoying and just isn't attractive to make up for it. When I watch the countdown DVRed I fast-forward through her videos. I'm just not a fan at all. So I was very happy to see this song almost fully crashing and burning and it didn't even get shown in full so I was even happier.
#18-Jack Johnson-You and Your Heart (Debut)
This is a new song for me. Not sure if I like it yet. It's not terrible. Just have to hear it more often. The video has nothing to really do with the song, But it's alright, take time to get used to it.
#17-Taio Cruz & Ludacris-Break Your Heart (up 3)
I can't even explain why I love this song. It's catchy and really honest. The video is dead on with the song. The other thing with this song is while it's very catchy, it gets stuck in your head for hours. It's rare I like a Ludacris song, but this one really works.
#16-Theory Of A Deadman-All Or Nothing (down 3)
It took me a few weeks, but I now really like this song. It's actually a really romantic rock song. They don't come around often. So this song and video really works, hope it sticks around for a while.
#15-Angel Taylor-Like You Do (down 3)
This is such a corny little song. The video is so fitting in the coffee shop. It's that feel. I like this song, it's very cute. There's not much else to it. It's a catching cute corny ditty.
#14-La Roux-Bulletproof (up 4)
This is a very very very strange song. It has annoying beat, the words make no sense, the video is very chaotic and the girl is okay to look at, but not hot. Then why is it even on this countdown? It took me a few weeks but one afternoon it dawned on me. It's the chorus. When you listen to this song, all you remember is the chorus and you catch yourself singing it hours later. Thus this song is popular and now I understand why.
#13-Alpha Rev-New Morning (up 4)
Who are these guys? Am I really that much out of the rock loop that I have no idea what song this even is? It's very slow and morbid, I really don't like it. I can see why it's popular, but it bores me. The video is just as boring.
#12-Lady Antebellum-Need You Now (down 5)
How the mighty have fallen. This was a top 1 song. It jumped up this countdown extremely fast and became country music's latest cross-over hit. And now just as quickly it is sinking. I love this song, Hillary Scott is hot, nothing else to say there.
#11-Christina Aguilera-Not Myself Tonight (down 2)
What the hell? Where did this come from? No offense to Christina Aguilera but this song is bad, even for terrible pop songs. And the video is even worse. She found a way to make looking like a whore, dressing like a song and lesbianism feel unattractive and boring. This video so far fetched and over-the-top sexy, so much so that it's reaching too much. Just doesn't work and shouldn't have been made.
#10-Bon Jovi-Superman Tonight (up 4)
Yay! Bon Jovi is back in the top 10! Great song! This video is amazing and tells the story of the song perfectly. If you haven't seen this video, you have to. It's amazing and should be a number one video. Maybe one day.
#9-B.o.B. & Bruno Mars-Nothin' On You (up 2)
Ah, another really good song moving into the top 10. This song is fantastic actually. Another unexpected love anthem. The computer work done in this video is perfect for explaining the song's story. Not much else for me to say but I will have no problem seeing this song skyrocketing even higher in weeks to come.
#8-Jason DeRulo-In My Head (down 4)
I was convinced this song was going to be the #1 song this week because he was the guest. It seems to be how it works. But in all seriousness, this song is alright. Not one that I personally like, but I wouldn't argue to dancing to it at the bar or something like that, as it is a sexy dance song. Just don't like him.
#7-Lady Gaga & Beyonce-Telephone (down 2)
I know I'm going to killed for my feelings on this song. I think this song is just annoying, the dancing is terrible and it's just a stupid song and video. Too much work went into this video, a simple format might have been easier. But in a different light, this video did help me in an argument at work. There was a discussion about whether or not Lady Gaga is a man or not. I said that after watching this video, she is DEFINITELY female. Just watch the first 2 minutes of the short form if you really are questioning that.
#6-Muse-Uprising (up 2)
The fans of this band confuse me, big time. Two weeks ago the song Resistance was on the countdown, I was just getting used it and it was getting popular. Then suddenly, out of nowhere, last week the Muse fans voted this song onto the countdown. This is the older song from last year, but it's actually the better of the two songs. I like it better, I just didn't expect it at all. I didn't know you could vote a song onto the countdown after it was already on the year end special from the year before. I guess this like TRL rules right?
#5-Usher and will.I.am-OMG (up 5, leap of the week)
When this song debuted on the countdown, again out of where, I was okay with it because I didn't like the previous single. But now weeks later, I miss the video for Little Freak. At least the terribleness of this song was disguised with the hotness of the girls in it and the story it told. But onto this song, just a boring video and annoying beat. I don't get why this is so popular, except that it's Usher.
#4-The Script-Breakeven (down 1)
I really liked this song originally. It was a very good song. I'm a stickler for breakup songs or songs about heartbreak. For me, depressing songs are fantastic, I've always felt that way. But then VH1 started airing the Unplugged version, and I love this one even more. The acoustic sound works so well with the beat of the song and it added alot to the story.
#3-Adam Lambert-Whataya Want From Me (up 3)
Ah, Mr. Lambert. I just can't get you off my TV can I? At this song isn't half bad or I'd be more pissed about it. I'm convinced the only way I'm going to finally get rid of you is the 20/20 club, and that's coming very soon. The video ain't bad, and like I said the song is okay, but I'm so over Lambert at this point, that I just want to move on.
#2-Jay-Z & Mr. Hudson-Young Forever (down 1)
This song makes me laugh. It's so obvious that the name of this song should be "Forever Young" but they couldn't use that title. If this was just a Jay-Z song, it wouldn't be that good, just to be honest. But Mr. Hudson brings soo much to this song with the chorus riff and occasionally singing. The video is really good to tell the story of this song. I completely understand the popularity of this song. No doubt.
#1-Colbie Caillat-I Never Told You (up 1)
Wow, this song came out of nowhere. This was a HUGE surprise, but a very pleasant one. I really like this song and video. Back to my love and depressing song. It also helps that she's a total cutie. She deserves this push to the top, it probably won't last long, but it'll be fun while it last. Very awesome way to end the show.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Stanley Cup Conference Finals Thoughts
Here we are, the first almost full day of the Conference Finals.
My picks were made official last night,
Montreal over Philly in 6 games
Chicago over San Jose in 6 games
Honestly I think Montreal has some magic left in them big time and it's time for the Hawks to return to the finals. I think that the Sharks will choke again.
I will keep updating as the series continue on. It should be a great ending to what has been a fantastic Stanley Cup playoffs.
My picks were made official last night,
Montreal over Philly in 6 games
Chicago over San Jose in 6 games
Honestly I think Montreal has some magic left in them big time and it's time for the Hawks to return to the finals. I think that the Sharks will choke again.
I will keep updating as the series continue on. It should be a great ending to what has been a fantastic Stanley Cup playoffs.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
"The Team of Destiny"-The Montreal Canadiens?
Last night continued one of the most compelling and unexpected runs in NHL playoffs history.
The 8th seeded Montreal Canadiens BARELY made the playoffs and then they got put into a series with the Washington Capitals. No one gave them a chance. No one thought they could beat the mighty Caps, not even I. My official pick was Caps in 6. I figured the Habs would steal a couple of games at home and then the Caps would turn around win. No biggy. It seemed that not only would the Caps win but they would do it in a typical fashion when they took a 3-1 lead in the series. But boy was I, and everyone else wrong. The Habs had other plans and backed by one the most unbelievable goal-tending runs ever in the sport by Jaroslav Halak, they turned the series around and the entire conference up-side-down and stunned the hockey world and won the series.
So when the matchups for the 2nd round came out, they were given the reigning champs, the Penguins. I went on record when the series started and said, Canadiens in 7. Other than Mandy, everyone, co-workers, twitter people, and even my two best friends, looked at me like I had two heads. How can the lowly Habs beat the unstoppable Sid the Kid and the Pens. Well, look what happened.
Last night the ultimate underdog story, this side of the Mighty Ducks improbable run to the Cup finals in 03, continued. The Canadiens not only beat Pittsburgh but they embarrassed them in the last game to ever be played at the Igloo. But not only that but the face of Canada was humbled by an one-time legendary Canadian franchise.
I believe Stan Fischler said it perfectly on Twitter and I couldn't agree more:
"How long before Canada realizes the Kid is a fraud? Gold medal goal was Iginla's hard work. Cup was Malkin's. Sid should really cry now."
Last night wasn't just a hockey moment or sports moment. Last night proved to me that indeed anything in life is possible, if you have the drive to succeed and the want to achieve.
Always remember, if the Canadiens can upset the Caps and the Pens, how is anything else impossible?
The 8th seeded Montreal Canadiens BARELY made the playoffs and then they got put into a series with the Washington Capitals. No one gave them a chance. No one thought they could beat the mighty Caps, not even I. My official pick was Caps in 6. I figured the Habs would steal a couple of games at home and then the Caps would turn around win. No biggy. It seemed that not only would the Caps win but they would do it in a typical fashion when they took a 3-1 lead in the series. But boy was I, and everyone else wrong. The Habs had other plans and backed by one the most unbelievable goal-tending runs ever in the sport by Jaroslav Halak, they turned the series around and the entire conference up-side-down and stunned the hockey world and won the series.
So when the matchups for the 2nd round came out, they were given the reigning champs, the Penguins. I went on record when the series started and said, Canadiens in 7. Other than Mandy, everyone, co-workers, twitter people, and even my two best friends, looked at me like I had two heads. How can the lowly Habs beat the unstoppable Sid the Kid and the Pens. Well, look what happened.
Last night the ultimate underdog story, this side of the Mighty Ducks improbable run to the Cup finals in 03, continued. The Canadiens not only beat Pittsburgh but they embarrassed them in the last game to ever be played at the Igloo. But not only that but the face of Canada was humbled by an one-time legendary Canadian franchise.
I believe Stan Fischler said it perfectly on Twitter and I couldn't agree more:
"How long before Canada realizes the Kid is a fraud? Gold medal goal was Iginla's hard work. Cup was Malkin's. Sid should really cry now."
Last night wasn't just a hockey moment or sports moment. Last night proved to me that indeed anything in life is possible, if you have the drive to succeed and the want to achieve.
Always remember, if the Canadiens can upset the Caps and the Pens, how is anything else impossible?
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
My reaction to Glee 5/11/10
Last night proved to me why I am to proud to be a Gleek.
Every song had a storyline point. Every track is downloadable, which is why I bought them first thing this morning.
The show started with Rachael losing her voice on The Climb which I would have actually loved to have heard her sing for real because I think she would have blown it out of the water but still it worked for the impending storyline. Finn's rendition of Jessie's Girl blew me away and the fact that it was sung in front of the whole Glee club was fantastic. Rachael's face during the whole thing was simply priceless. But not to be outdone, Puck broke out Lady Is a Tramp and I wonder where was this guy earlier in the season? He sang it amazing and I didn't realize he could dance like that. Having Mercedes finish the song with him was perfect and having them get together was kinda cool. Especially since it lead to her and Santana busting The Boy is Mine. For those who never heard the original by Brandy and Monica, you don't realize how amazing this performance truly was. The original is a great duet and these girls blew it out of the water and I really thought that they were going to come to blows when it was over. Honestly I want to ignore the fact that Kurt sang Pink Houses because honestly it wasn't good and wasn't him at all. That's why the pay off of the storyline with his dad was simply perfect when he broke out Rose's Turn. The words were so dead on and perfect for him and reminded me why he is one of the most beloved openly gay men on tv. And in the tradition of this show, their version of One was simply fantastic.
More episodes like this leading up to Regionals on June 8th and it will be a great ride. Next week is the night Neal Patrick Harris is guesting and I can't wait to hear him and Will sing Dream On in context. This right now has to be the best show on TV by far.
Every song had a storyline point. Every track is downloadable, which is why I bought them first thing this morning.
The show started with Rachael losing her voice on The Climb which I would have actually loved to have heard her sing for real because I think she would have blown it out of the water but still it worked for the impending storyline. Finn's rendition of Jessie's Girl blew me away and the fact that it was sung in front of the whole Glee club was fantastic. Rachael's face during the whole thing was simply priceless. But not to be outdone, Puck broke out Lady Is a Tramp and I wonder where was this guy earlier in the season? He sang it amazing and I didn't realize he could dance like that. Having Mercedes finish the song with him was perfect and having them get together was kinda cool. Especially since it lead to her and Santana busting The Boy is Mine. For those who never heard the original by Brandy and Monica, you don't realize how amazing this performance truly was. The original is a great duet and these girls blew it out of the water and I really thought that they were going to come to blows when it was over. Honestly I want to ignore the fact that Kurt sang Pink Houses because honestly it wasn't good and wasn't him at all. That's why the pay off of the storyline with his dad was simply perfect when he broke out Rose's Turn. The words were so dead on and perfect for him and reminded me why he is one of the most beloved openly gay men on tv. And in the tradition of this show, their version of One was simply fantastic.
More episodes like this leading up to Regionals on June 8th and it will be a great ride. Next week is the night Neal Patrick Harris is guesting and I can't wait to hear him and Will sing Dream On in context. This right now has to be the best show on TV by far.
American Idol 5/11/10-Final Four Movie Night
Well here we are, one of the toughest nights of the Idol season, Top 4 nights and the best part is that it's of my favorite themes, "Music from the Cinema."
First off, Jamie Foxx should just come back every year till the show goes off the air. He is by far of the best celebrity mentors. He did an amazing job last year, this year was no different. This is two great mentors in a row. Great job Idol on that!
Now onto the performances. Is it bad that the whole night I was scratching my head wondering where the song selections came from? Except for Big Mike, I kinda felt like they were really random selections. I'll explain why.
Lee-Kiss from A Rose
I love this song. And I thought Lee would do a great job with it. It was good, I'm not going to say it wasn't but it wasn't GREAT. It was odd for him to sing this because it just didn't mesh his voice that well and I figured he would have done a faster song. But overall, it was good and I did lose Mandy for a few minutes because her man was just in a zone for her. (3 out of 5)
Mike-Will You Be There?
I thought this was fantastic. Best solo of the night by none. The judges didn't seem to like it, but I thought it was well done and you felt it. He can pull off MJ big time and it's a classic song. (4 out of 5)
Casey-Mrs. Robinson
Huh? Where did this even come from? It was okay. But not good. It showed me he just doesn't belong here. The real question is though, was he really singing to Kara? Maybe that's why he sang it because he knew the judges would be so thrown by the song and lyrics that they would ignore the fact it wasn't that good. Didn't work so well at home. (2 out of 5)
Crystal-I'm Alright
Another WTF moment. Really? The song from Caddyshack? That's the best she could come up with? Here's a girl who survived all the other girls because she is an amazing singer, and she has an entire movie song catalog and this is the best she could come up with? Wow. I was in shock last night. She looked amazingly hot which helped big time but damn, that was bad for her, it was something I would have expected from Tim. (2 out of 5)
Crystal and Lee-Falling Slowly
Mandy and I were both in our glory on this one. This was spot on amazing. They could perform this on the tour and no one will complain. They could release that on the radio and no one would even blink. Their chemistry was amazing and the eye contact was unreal. I loved it and already on the song on my MP3 player. (5 out of 5)
Casey and Mike-Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman?
"As a matter of fact, yes, I have loved a woman!"-Ellen
This was another great duet. It surprised me how well Casey and Mike's voices mesh together. It was incredible. But it was obvious that Mike is the better singer of the two because he totally carried the first half of the song. (5 out of 5)
Overall it was a weird but good night. Honestly, I think Casey will be going home. He was the weakest tonight, especially in his solo. And if we are basing it on the duets, because they miles better than the solos on this night, then Casey is definitely heading home tonight. I am looking forward to tonight though, Daughtry and BON JOVI are going to be on!
First off, Jamie Foxx should just come back every year till the show goes off the air. He is by far of the best celebrity mentors. He did an amazing job last year, this year was no different. This is two great mentors in a row. Great job Idol on that!
Now onto the performances. Is it bad that the whole night I was scratching my head wondering where the song selections came from? Except for Big Mike, I kinda felt like they were really random selections. I'll explain why.
Lee-Kiss from A Rose
I love this song. And I thought Lee would do a great job with it. It was good, I'm not going to say it wasn't but it wasn't GREAT. It was odd for him to sing this because it just didn't mesh his voice that well and I figured he would have done a faster song. But overall, it was good and I did lose Mandy for a few minutes because her man was just in a zone for her. (3 out of 5)
Mike-Will You Be There?
I thought this was fantastic. Best solo of the night by none. The judges didn't seem to like it, but I thought it was well done and you felt it. He can pull off MJ big time and it's a classic song. (4 out of 5)
Casey-Mrs. Robinson
Huh? Where did this even come from? It was okay. But not good. It showed me he just doesn't belong here. The real question is though, was he really singing to Kara? Maybe that's why he sang it because he knew the judges would be so thrown by the song and lyrics that they would ignore the fact it wasn't that good. Didn't work so well at home. (2 out of 5)
Crystal-I'm Alright
Another WTF moment. Really? The song from Caddyshack? That's the best she could come up with? Here's a girl who survived all the other girls because she is an amazing singer, and she has an entire movie song catalog and this is the best she could come up with? Wow. I was in shock last night. She looked amazingly hot which helped big time but damn, that was bad for her, it was something I would have expected from Tim. (2 out of 5)
Crystal and Lee-Falling Slowly
Mandy and I were both in our glory on this one. This was spot on amazing. They could perform this on the tour and no one will complain. They could release that on the radio and no one would even blink. Their chemistry was amazing and the eye contact was unreal. I loved it and already on the song on my MP3 player. (5 out of 5)
Casey and Mike-Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman?
"As a matter of fact, yes, I have loved a woman!"-Ellen
This was another great duet. It surprised me how well Casey and Mike's voices mesh together. It was incredible. But it was obvious that Mike is the better singer of the two because he totally carried the first half of the song. (5 out of 5)
Overall it was a weird but good night. Honestly, I think Casey will be going home. He was the weakest tonight, especially in his solo. And if we are basing it on the duets, because they miles better than the solos on this night, then Casey is definitely heading home tonight. I am looking forward to tonight though, Daughtry and BON JOVI are going to be on!
WWE NXT 5/11/10
As a fan of the WWE, I started watching NXT because I was curious about the concept and well I like wrestling so what the hell? The show has had it's ups and downs but last night was it's first elimination night so it was bound to be a special night.
The wrestling matches were alright but that wasn't the story out of last night. It was the eliminations.
I, much like alot of people were expecting ONE elimination based on the pro poll. Well when the show went on the air Striker broke it to us that were surprises in store.
First came Micheal Tarver. The one who I said was going home no matter what happened. He had won only one match and practically walked off on every competition that was held over the course of the show. But what I didn't expect was they booted him off because he said last week that he should be the one to go home. That's fine by me. I didn't like him and him going home was not a shock at all.
The shocker came next. Daniel Bryan is my personal favorite. I followed him since I saw him, Bryan Danielson, at a ROH show last year was very impressed. He was ranked #1 and despite going 0-10 in NXT matches, I figured he was safe no matter what. Well, he said the same thing that Tarver did last week, so that sent him home too. I will admit, I was totally stunned. But I did BIG TIME love what he said during the his exit interview. He revealed that he is Bryan Danielson, and that I hope is the sign that he will be back soon on Raw or Smackdown as the wrestler and person I expected to begin with.
Finally, the pros poll came out and Skip Sheffield, honestly not a surprise at all, went home. Not much to say on that except, I wonder what would have happened if they actually did the real pro poll before the surprise double elimination at the beginning of the show.
Overall, I will say the whole thing caught me off guard. It seems like they are now rushing the show by. It might be the low ratings, or it might be the fact that Smackdown is moving the SyFy in October and the show has to be over by them so they don't have two wrestling programs on the same channel. Either way, I'm very curious what they are going to do next, but I won't be shocked at all if at the end of all this it comes down to David Otunga and Wade Barrett.
I, much like alot of people were expecting ONE elimination based on the pro poll. Well when the show went on the air Striker broke it to us that were surprises in store.
First came Micheal Tarver. The one who I said was going home no matter what happened. He had won only one match and practically walked off on every competition that was held over the course of the show. But what I didn't expect was they booted him off because he said last week that he should be the one to go home. That's fine by me. I didn't like him and him going home was not a shock at all.
The shocker came next. Daniel Bryan is my personal favorite. I followed him since I saw him, Bryan Danielson, at a ROH show last year was very impressed. He was ranked #1 and despite going 0-10 in NXT matches, I figured he was safe no matter what. Well, he said the same thing that Tarver did last week, so that sent him home too. I will admit, I was totally stunned. But I did BIG TIME love what he said during the his exit interview. He revealed that he is Bryan Danielson, and that I hope is the sign that he will be back soon on Raw or Smackdown as the wrestler and person I expected to begin with.
Finally, the pros poll came out and Skip Sheffield, honestly not a surprise at all, went home. Not much to say on that except, I wonder what would have happened if they actually did the real pro poll before the surprise double elimination at the beginning of the show.
Overall, I will say the whole thing caught me off guard. It seems like they are now rushing the show by. It might be the low ratings, or it might be the fact that Smackdown is moving the SyFy in October and the show has to be over by them so they don't have two wrestling programs on the same channel. Either way, I'm very curious what they are going to do next, but I won't be shocked at all if at the end of all this it comes down to David Otunga and Wade Barrett.
Opening Entry
Hello everyone!
I've decided to make a new blog for me to share my feelings on subject matters like TV, sports and other pop culture. I will be covering everything from my opinions on Glee and American Idol to my thoughts on WWE and the NHL. Also I will have my opinions on various events, decisions, artists, music and just about anything that comes to mind. I will try to keep this blog updated frequently, time and life events permitting of course.
These are my opinions, I don't expect people to agree with everything that I have to say. I have strong opinions on things, and some stuff I really don't know alot about. Feel free if you are reading this to comment, share your thoughts or just say whatever you want.
I just ask for you not to just spam my comments or go vulgar for the sake of being vulgar. It's not worth your time and mine. Life is too short to be wasted on that.
This is NOT my personal blog. That is here. This purely for pop culture or anything else of that nature.
I hope you enjoy what I have to say.
---Blake
I've decided to make a new blog for me to share my feelings on subject matters like TV, sports and other pop culture. I will be covering everything from my opinions on Glee and American Idol to my thoughts on WWE and the NHL. Also I will have my opinions on various events, decisions, artists, music and just about anything that comes to mind. I will try to keep this blog updated frequently, time and life events permitting of course.
These are my opinions, I don't expect people to agree with everything that I have to say. I have strong opinions on things, and some stuff I really don't know alot about. Feel free if you are reading this to comment, share your thoughts or just say whatever you want.
I just ask for you not to just spam my comments or go vulgar for the sake of being vulgar. It's not worth your time and mine. Life is too short to be wasted on that.
This is NOT my personal blog. That is here. This purely for pop culture or anything else of that nature.
I hope you enjoy what I have to say.
---Blake
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)