Dear Mayor Bloomberg

Dear Mayor Bloomberg

It has been four days since the big blizzard. I walk through Manhattan and everything is beautiful and cleared up. Four days, and Brooklyn is still a mess. Why aren't you helping us in the boroughs? I know you are all about money, and keeping Broadway open, tourism etc. Great for the economy, but why are you messing with the people? Why can't you come help us in Brooklyn? Why must I walk over mountains to get anywhere. I understand one day late, maybe two, but four??? Garbage hasn't been picked up. Trash all over Brooklyn! Nothing, it is terrible, and J.R. Whittington The actor is pissed! I like you Mayor Bloomberg. I voted for you Mayor Bloomberg. Mr. Bloomberg, how about I leave thrash all over the front of your house, and big piles of snow all over your stoop, and I bet you won't be happy??? Think about it Mr. MAYOR!!! THIS IS RIDICULOUS!

The Scottsboro Boys To Close!

One of the best musicals I have seen in my lifetime, with the most beautiful music, and talented cast is closing this Sunday! If you haven't seen it yet, please run to the theater and see this amazing show. This show as expected got high praises from the critics, and theatergoers all around have loved this production. For the show to close after only 6 weeks on Broadway is the biggest sin ever committed in Broadway history. This is insulting and so sad. It is scary the state Broadway is in. People want to see shows with folks flying, famous folks in it, and just fluff! It is so sad, that a great show, written well, with the most talented cast, and a story that has meaning that needs to be heard, CLOSES! I am very disappointed in tourist, Americans, and the intelligence of theater goers. Broadway is changing, and it is scares me. Where is the good work? When we do have good work, why does it close so fast? Do we have to do revivals, or Spider Man, or have someone famous in it for it to sell? What happened to the days when the unknown Broadway person was made into a star? All these questions have pondered my mind when Scottsboro Boys and another great show "Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson" got a short life on Broadway. This hurts my feelings, and scares me in a way that I can't even explain..... Please read my past blog on The Scottsboro Boys to here my full review of the show. It is a sad day in the Broadway community......

The Sing Off on NBC

I just wanted to do a blog entry on the t.v. show "The Sing Off". I find myself dancing in my room, singing loudly, and just in awe of the talent on that stage. This is the first talent competition I have seen, where it is hard to have a favorite, because everyone is so dang on good. "The Sing Off", is a talent competition at it's best, if you are not watching this show, please run to see it. The judges are great, credible, and give amazing critics! Not like American Idol, when you get a sense they don't know what the heck they are talking about. The judges have a unique ear for pitch, vocal ability and musicality. I also enjoy the fact that the judges vote people off, so that we end up with truly the most talented group in the end. Not a popularity contest, although we the audience, do have a chance to vote at the final performance. This show is just made very smart, and it is so infectious. The judges, the talent, the way it is run, it is top notch for a reality singing competition. I have never seen people with more talent, and I give NBC a standing ovation. This is THE reality to show to watch! I find myself smiling so big, when I watch this show. I love talent, and love to see true artist on stage. I'm in awe of every group up there, what they do with no instruments and just there voices, is SUPERB! Music makes my soul happy, and this t.v. show makes me feel so much inside. RUN TO SEE THE SING OFF!!!!!

Whoopi Goldberg

As I felt guilty dogging my girl out in my last blog about the film "For Colored Girls", I decided to blog about how much I love Whoopi Goldberg. Her presence on the view makes me so happy, and she was the best choice ever to moderate that show. I usually find myself agreeing with most of her views. She knows when to agree, when to disagree, when to keep quiet, and to be diplomatic. Not to mention, sometimes, she reads people on the down low. Which I love about Whoopi Goldberg! She is a comedian and actress that states that "No one was hiring me for films", so I joined "The View"! You ever see a television personality, and you think to yourself "Me and so said celebrity would be great friends"?!? For some reason, I feel that way about Whoopi Goldberg...

Now to back pedal a little, as you know if you read my last blog entry. I didn't care to much for Whoopi's performance in "For Colored Girls", however, I didn't think she was horrific. I just didn't think she was well cast, and she wasn't as honest as she could have been. Her performance came off as a caricature, of a person, not a human. The highlighted moment for her in the film where she redeemed herself was her beautiful monologue that she spoke with Thandie Newton! That was well done, and the Whoopi I respect as an actress.

Whoopi Goldberg has proven herself time and time again, how great an actress she can be. Her performance in "The Color Purple" was so extraordinary. This was her best performance ever, it was so natural, and in my eyes, till this day, I feel she was robbed of an Oscar for her portrayal of Celie! There are numerous other movies where she nails the character, ex specially "Jumping Jack Flash", this movie is one of the funniest ever. No one has timing like Mrs. Whoopi . How about her Oscar winning role in "Ghost", one of my favorite lines in a movie "Molly, you in danger girl"! Lastly I have to mention her in Sister Act!!! AWESOME WORK WHOOPI!!!!! With numerous other amazing films under her belt, this is just the tip of the ice berg.

Whoopi's one women show, was the best thing on Broadway in a very long time. Her performance was riveting, honest, and no one can tell a story, while being funny, and slapping you in the face with a message, like Whoopi! Also I saw her kind of be miscast in "Ma Raineys Black Bottom", lacking the singing voice, but the acting chops was there. She was great in "A Funny Thing Happened on The Way To The Forum"! She stole the show in my eyes..... Whoopi's support of Broadway is commendable,and I am just a fan..... SO don't get your mind in a bundle, just because I didn't like her performance in one movie, doesn't mean I don't love WHOOPI GOLDBERG!!!!!

For Colored Girls

I saw the film a while back, but wanted to wait and ponder on this movie for awhile before I did my promised blog entry. I actually didn't mind this film, even though it got panned from critics. It was way better than I thought it would be. Tyler Perry did an amazing job reconstructing this book of monologues into a sequence, that actually made sense. It was a hard movie to sit through at times, as sometimes the truth about your culture hurts the heart more than expected. The cast was all A list and I was amazed by every one's work. All except one person, and I will mention that later. The highlighted performance for me, was Thandie Newton, Anika Noni Rose, and Phylicia Rashad! This movie was highly anticipated for me, and I didn't leave feeling numb like most African American women I know did. I left enjoying peoples work, it didn't make me feel the way I wanted it to. The one moment that got on my nerves was the cough, that Janet Jackson, kept doing ( I am sure directed to do so) it was so unbelievable and took me out of the moment. As they "indicated" that she was getting sick from her homo-Down Low- boyfriend. I know many people with HIV who don't walk around with a random cough. It would have been a stronger choice to just surprise us the audience, with the sickness, with the papers at the end, instead of giving away the final surprise! BAD ACTING CHOICE OR BAD DIRECTION!!!!! Other then that, everything seemed quite on the up and up! I enjoyed the actors work, and I would love to give kudos to the beautiful new comer:Tessa Thompson!!! Now to the performance I hated in the film, and it was so disappointing for me, it was Whoopi Goldberg. Her performance was contrived and not honest enough for me. I will state this by saying I am a huge Whoopi fan, and will devote my next blog entry to her. I can't dog my girl without giving her praise. I think Whoopi is an actress who needs a good director to help her along to find her character. This did not happen for me in "Colored Girls"! This film is all about the folks acting, and a must see for great performances!!!

Miami Pictures/Gabrielle Union Party/I made the cut!

I partied in Miami, on my Birthday and was invited to Gabrielle Unions Birthday party. As me, Gabrielle and Tracy Ross all share the same day of Birth. Here are some of the professional pictures from the party that I found online. As previously announced I respected the actresses decision to not allow cameras! You know I always know how to find the camera and my light! LOL! The surprise was that I found a photo of me online. I made the cut!!!! YAY! Such an amazing night, and wanted to share some of the photos!

My Favorite Movie..."The Color Purple"

My favorite movie of all times is "The Color Purple", and I decided to revisit this film the other night. It is amazing how I find new moments that make tears run down my face. It is interesting how relevant this movie is today as it was twenty five years ago. I also can quote a ton of scenes in the film, and I almost got the script memorized. Steven Spielberg is a genius, and his attention to detail is brilliant in this film. He captures the period, essence, and this culture as if he was African American and was born in this time period, like he lived this depressed experience. Spielberg brings the best out of the actors, and even finds humor and joy through out this film. This to me is still today his best work ever, and I can't wait for the blue ray version of this film to come out on Jan. 25 2011! This movie has some of the best acting in the world in it, this ensemble piece is so extraordinary as every actor was amazing! It is also some of the best work some of these actors have ever done. Whoopi Goldberg, and Oprah for instance would do there best work in there film lives in this flick. Although Whoopi won an Oscar for the movie Ghost, which is superb performance, Ghost can't ever measure up to her work in "The Color Purple". That year was intense as "The Color Purple" had many nominations, but was robbed in my opinion of all them. It should have been best actor, actress, supporting actress, best direction, and even best picture..I can go on and on....This movie should have cleaned house at the Oscars!!!!! I haven't seen any movie that can come close in my eyes to touching the work done in this film. We have come close, but no cigar for me. That is how highly I praise this film!

"The Color Purple", is celebrating its 25Th year anniversary this year, and they were on the Oprah show last night. I learned some inside on the film that shocked me. It was thrilling to watch this beautiful cast together on Oprah. News flash for me was that Whoopi and Oprah who haven't spoken in 20 years, because of petty "he said she said", break there silence and confusion. The Oprah show had me laughing, crying, and just in awe of the talent on stage. Learning inside information on the casting process, was one of my favorite moments on the Oprah show. Finding out that in the dinner table scene, they were all tore up from partying the night before. My biggest surprise is that Oprahs "Sat in that jail cell" speech was all improvisation. As it is one of my favorite acting moments in the movie. It goes to show when you are connected to a character, that the right thing will just flow out of you, whether scripted or not! I have to to give a shout out to Danny Glover and Margaret Avery whose performances are riveting in the film.

This movie is in a class of it's own and hasn't been replaced yet as my all time favorite film ever! I honestly don't know if it ever will......

Addiction

I wake every day and I think about it. I can see it in my dreams, it makes me crazy, and insane! I sometimes get on the train, and imagine it right next to me. I walk around like a crack head on the streets needing it so badly. I go crazy when it is not around me. I love it more than so many things in my life. I will get so angry if it is not around me. I can't live without it, and that is the bottom line. I eat, breathe, sleep, dream it everyday. I'm on the treadmill at the gym, and my mind wonders to it. When I have it I am so happy, and everything feels complete. I get so depreesed, don't want to get out of bed, and cry when it is not near me. I will do anything for it, and that scares me sometimes. I am obsessed with it, and I can't shake this addiction. I even bring GOD into it. I need it near me at all times in some way shape or form. I am addicted to acting!!!!!!!

Nowhere Boy

When I was in Miami, I did manage to catch a movie, and I was searching for this film in New York City! Unfortunately in one of the most diverse, artistic, amazing cities in the world (New York City). I could not find "Nowhere Boy" anywhere but at two random theaters. Then in Miami, right down the street from my hotel this film was playing. I was so excited as I love bio films that are based off of legends lives. If you don't know this film is about John Lennon's beginning of his life. As I expected it was a brilliant movie, that left tears, joy, power and ambition in my soul. Lennon's story is so interesting, and the Beatles gain a whole new respect from me. I had no idea Lennon's childhood was so complicated, and how tough a boy he was, John was a bad ass. In my head Lennon is like the ultimate hippy, and to see this different side of him, was a thrill. I can't wait for this film to come out on DVD as I will definitely own it. It was so well done, and the acting was superb. Every actor was extraordinary, that I can't even single anyone out as a favorite. Which you can almost always expect from British actors. They just are trained well over there, and have mastered the acting art form. I highly recommend this film if you can find it in your hometown!

Namaste

I took the most amazing Yoga class yesterday, that I just had to mention to all my New York Friends and New York Blog Followers. It wasn't even at a yoga studio, it was at New York Sports Club on 14th Street, at 12:15 p.m. on Mondays. The teachers name is Sarah, and when I tell you I was so inspired. After class I felt like I could accomplish anything. My body felt so amazing and great. The most important thing was that my soul was lifted, it reminded me of vacation. I came out of there so relaxed, and my inner being was happy. This class I will take every Monday (if I can make it) with bells on. It is a little difficult for a beginner, but if you are a dancer friend of mine, you would love it. If you have taken yoga before you definitely can handle the class. If you are a beginner it can be a little tough, but my advice is to still come and try, as there were many people who were beginners in the room. The most special part of the technique and the class is the words the instructor Sarah spoke. It was amazing, as every thing pertained to my life. She encouraged, and the sound of her voice illuminated the air, and my heart. I felt like she knew exactly what to say at the right time. My friend Steven who I went to this class with said "He felt like she was talking directly to him the whole time, like no one else was in the room"! I too had the same experience.....Well, if you are in New York City, and you want to take an amazing yoga class, come to my gym, and I will see ya there....

My Amazing Birthday

I haven't blogged in two weeks, because I was so busy with life, and my Birthday just backed me up for a couple of weeks. I have so much to speak on, so stay tuned blog world as I try to fit in all my ideas this week.

I went to Miami for my Birthday weekend, and I had the time of my life! I left on Thursday October 28 and the first day I just lay on the sunny beach all day, and ate some of the most amazing Cuban food in the world! When I checked into the hotel, they handed me a cocktail, with a big welcoming party. I knew from that moment that this was going to be an amazing weekend. I also hit every bar I could find on the Miami strip, made new friends, and partied it up on my Birthday weekend. Every single night I felt like I was up at a bar or club until 6am. This is very unlike me as I never go out anymore, but this was so much fun. To forget about New York, Auditions, Family Troubles, the real world was out of sight, out of mind. It was exactly what the doctor ordered.

The big day of my Birthday was the best Birthday I had thus far, as I went into a Hollywood dream land. I was invited by a friend to Gabrielle Union's Bday party. Which we share our Birthday's on the same day. It was such an amazing atmosphere to be amongst so many celebrities. To chat with many of them on a social level, and to feel like there peer and not someone who you see on T.V. and admire. It was also amazing to meet some cool stylist, publicist, make up artist, managers, and just industry folks! It was a great way to help me dream bigger, as my career goes through transition, being a part of that click, dancing, drinking, and just having a great time was such a high. One of my celebrity crushes-- that I will keep nameless-- was there, we had a great conversation as well......HMMMM????? I will keep you guessing blog world, and if you are my friend, you can ask me in private. LOL I now know more than ever where I fit in, and where I belong. That statement probably sounds cocky, but I have to write how I truly feel, in my blog. My emotions were heightened and hey it was "my day" as well. She had old school bands come up and sang for us; such as Silk and Al B. Sure. It was a kick back to the music I grew up listening. UH-OH blog world I am giving away my age...... I wish I could post pictures from the night, but I tried to respect Gabrielle Union as she said "No Cameras"!!!! Again, if you are my friend, I did sneak and take a couple, and some videos..LOL I would never post them online out of the actors, respects...This day was truly blessed, and I will never forget it. I hope there are many more parties of this nature in my life to come.

Lastly one of the most spiritual moments of my whole vacation was when it got dark, I would wonder onto the beach. I would look out at the dark ocean, and up at all the stars glaring back at me. For some reason the beach at night, I feel so close to GOD! I would reflect, pray, cry, meditate, and talk to the my saviour. It was one of the most beautiful moments, and the beach at night is now one of my favorite things to do.

Well, that is the short, of my BDay celebration, but it was a blast, and I will never forget any moment of it.

Why Can't I Be Carol Burnett?

A young Carol Burnett, had a dream, and tells a story of how a man anonymously gave her money for rent, acting school, and supported her career. So she didn't have to stress about rent, job, an extras, so she can give her career 100% attention. I want to train more and learn more, but can't afford it anymore! Someone believed in Carol Burnett so much, that he funded her New York City experience. She just focused, studied, auditioned, and perfected her craft. Until her big break came, and she made millions of dollars. She also paid her donor back with interest. The only stipulation the donor had was that she never mentioned his name. Till this day Carol Burnett is the only person who knows this mystery mans identity! I'm clicking my heels three times, I'm tugging on my ear, I'm closing my eyes very tight, and wishing I was Carol Burnett right about now!

Eartha Kitt

This women was a legend, ground breaking, and controversial. I just love and adore Eartha Kitt. I am glad--thanks to my friend Nathan Lee Graham-- I had the opportunity to meet her, before she passed. I also got to see her perform live on stage, and this women is a true entertainer. I agree with everything in this video, Ms. Kitt is so wise, and I get it!!!!! Thanks Kendra Ross for posting this on your blog, as it is so awesome that I needed to post on my blog! ENJOY..LOVE THYSELF!

The Universe Is Saying No

The universe is saying "no" to me right now in my life, from simple things, from auditions, and to family! I'm accepting the universe, for some reason, as it is spitting in my face. I know the universe will like me again and say "yes"! I have faith that what goes up must come down, and vice versa! I know GOD has never failed me, and so I just have to keep the faith! I'm going to turn my frown upside down! Pray for me.....

P.S. NO comments on this post please, as I'm not here for words of encouragement. Just venting......Love You All!

Carlton Pearson an Important Conversation

La Bete On Broadway

I went to see the play "La Bete" on Broadway, starring David Hyde Pierce, and Joanne Lumley (Absolutely Fabulous) which is the whole reason I went to see the piece. The whole cast was superb even down to the small players of the piece. Every actor so connected to a rhythm, and timing that I can't even fathom. As an actor if I received this script I would be so intimidated by this piece, it takes true talent to pull this off. The thing that made it so brilliant, was they spoke the lines, as pedestrian as possible. You understood every intent, although, it is a heighten piece written in prose. It was a masterpiece at comedy this work was on stage. I started the show laughing, and never stopped, as the timing was so spot on and perfect. David Hyde Pierce was fantastic as usual, and it was nice to see Joanne Lumley do something different. I applaud this whole company for there work, and it has inspired me as a actor. I am saving the best part of this play for last, the true star of the show, and the person who steals this whole production away from everyone is Mark Rylance. I can't even put into words how overly impressed I am with his work. He was on another level as actor, as he took this play, stole every scene, and wiped the stage with his talent. This man is extraordinary, and I haven't seen a performance like this in my life. These are big words coming from me, who is so critical of many actors. I wish I could type on this page how amazing this man was, but no words can express his work. If I were you blog world I would run to see this play, and run even faster to see the genius which is Mark Rylance!

Six Degrees of Marvin Hamlisch

I had the honor of performing in a benefit performance for the musical pianist and musical director Fran Liebergall, who is living with M.S. When I got the email asking if I would participate, I immediately said yes, as Fran musically directed me in A Chorus Line a couple times in my career. I had no idea that the night would be so life changing and star studded. It was a beautiful evening, which begin with Sammy Williams (Original Paul in ACL) singing "Who am I anyway". Joel Grey started us off with his famous song from Cabaret, and it was amazing to see this man perform live on stage. He was so inspiring, nice and fantastic. Then I got to sit back stage and rehearse with Donna Murphy, Donna Mackenie, Victor Garber, Robert Lupone, Lucie Arnaz, Priscilla Lopez, Billy Stritch, Marvin Hamlisch, Liz Callaway, and many more. It was honor to watch them rehearse and work, and to stand next to these folks on stage, and perform. To hear there stories, and how Fran had touched there lives. To have a brief chat with Lucie Arnaz, was surreal, ummm, Lucille Balls daughter, and Desi Arnaz, WOW!!!!! To see many old A Chorus Line Friends, and not from the revival the older A Chorus Liners that I worked with when I was just a boy. To watch the original cast of A Chorus Line, ex specially Donna Mackenie do part of the Cassie Dance, and sing "that" famous song, brought tears to my eyes. To sing "What I did For love", with Donna Murphy, next to me crying, while Priscilla Lopez belted it out and Marvin Hamlisch behind me playing the piano. This night gave me inspiration and chills. I enjoyed every moment and I will cherish this unexpected gift. It was great to have Fran scream at us even though she can't play the piano anymore. To hear her scream "I need more middle harmony", just made me so happy. Some things just never change, and I loved every moment of it. It was interesting to see how so many of us are connected by one composer's genius work!

"The Mosque" at Ground Zero

I just think it is ridiculous to think that in America that anyone can't build where they want, no matter what there religious beliefs. I feel that we are being bigots, if we think that all Islamic and or Muslims are terrorist. I believe that if we don't build this mosque the terrorist win. This is America the land of the free, and I personally would love to have a beautiful mosque next to the new ground zero. We have a small little mosque around the corner from me in Brooklyn, and when I walk by it, I feel nothing but peace. I sometimes glare into the windows, and watch the faithful people kneel and pray. I don't have the same beliefs, but I sometimes wish, we as Christians were as dedicated to our GOD! The peace, faith, and power the mosque symbolizes is not at all what people FEAR. I live in New York City, and have lived threw the 9/11 terror attacks, and it is now time for us to build up and move on. FEAR is not the answer, peace, love, non-judgement is the answer. I pray that we can all live together, with no hate, and fear! BUILD THIS MOSQUE, AND LET'S END HATE! Let's not judge because, a group of Muslims are terrorist. Not all Islamic people are haters, and that is just like any faith, there are good and bad people in all beliefs. GET OVER YOURSELF AMERICA, I'M APPALLED WE ARE EVEN HAVING THIS DEBATE!

Damn You "Mad Men"..You Killed My Girl!

You all know I love the t.v. show "Mad Men", and they have this new actress named Randee Heller! She plays Don's new old lady secretary, and when I tell you I rewind her scenes on my TiVo because they are so brilliant. I am usually laughing so loudly in my room, with her crazy one liners. They killed my girl off the show, although the episode was tragic yet funny, and great! I am pissed because I loved this character and the women's work on Mad Men. UGH RIP Miss Blankenship!

My Favorite News Show

I always have these crazy obsessions, and I like to let my blog family in on it, so you can enjoy!!! I am obsessed with Christiane Amanpour, and her news show that airs every Sunday morning on ABC. This is the best hour of journalism I had seen on T.V. in my life. I know that is a big statement, but she asks all the tough questions. Her round table is amazing, and she just interviews some of the best. Christiane may dress like a lesbian, speak with a British accent, but she is the real deal in journalism. She has a beauty, charm, courageousness, and sharpness like no other journalist. I also love the fact that she is middle eastern, and it is nice to see her be accepted and do her thing in this climate. If you are looking for some good news, you have to tune into Christiane, I promise you won't be disappointed.

Frustrated Actor

I am writing this blog, because I want to document, the low times, as well as the high times in my career. These past two weeks have been a terrible low. As I strangely love to audition, and lately it has been so slow that I have been on one audition in the past two weeks. My manager, said she is having a bit of trouble getting me in for the recent films. Again, type, and my musical resume getting in my way. It is a blessing and curse looking the way I do, because I don't fit any one's mold. I am a multi cultural looking man, and tons of characters are very specific to "type". I fall in the middle for many of these projects. This is a struggle I have no control over, but I believe when it does happen, it will be huge! I can't let being SPECIAL stop me, I just pray that more opportunities come. It is hard to be a talented actor, if no one will even let you in the door to audition. My manager is going to start pushing more, which I think I need, because I know I have the chops. It is also slow in musical theater land, but that is expected as there aren't many roles again, out there for my type. I am learning the art of patience, and sticking to my guns. I don't want to go back to the chorus, it is time to move on. However, I will take a chorus contract if there is a great role I can understudy. Or if it is a featured ensemble role, and that could satisfy my appetite as well. This is still a struggle to get out, ex specially when I have to turn down money, to follow my dream. I am sticking with my dream, and I know this too shall pass. I do have a couple of auditions this week, so, I will just press on, and look forward to my future.

The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo #2

This is the second part of my three section series, on the book that I am in love with. I finally got to see the foreign film version of this mega hit book, "The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo". This film got very high critical acclaim, but it won't be receiving praise from me. I was very disappointed in this film version. It had nothing to do with that actors, because I enjoyed all there work. My biggest complaints come from the screenplay. Stieg Larsson must be rolling around in his grave. They got rid of one of my favorite characters. They killed off characters that were alive and well in the book. They changed many plot lines, and change the story around. It wasn't a murder mystery that was nearly as thrilling and entertaining as the book. This was a huge disappointment for me. I know that the book is long as hell, and I am sure they had to cut stuff out. However, some important plots, stories, images, relationships, twists, and love was missing from this film. It was so hard for me as the book was so fresh in my mind, and I just don't understand why they would change something that was so brilliant. This only makes me nervous for the Hollywood version of this film, and I pray that we get it right.

On a positive note, some of the more graphic scenes shot in the foreign film version were exquisite. The acting was so real, and intense. They didn't miss a note, and showed more than I expected. It made me so uncomfortable, that at this moment, I knew that they were doing there work. That the work was honest, and that it did exactly what it was set out to do. That is the only positive I have to say about this film. I think if you haven't read the books, you would probably love this movie!

Fingers are crossed for the American Version of one spectacular book.......

The American

Last night I went to the movies to see The American, and I had no desire to see this movie. As the previews make it look like the biggest action movie ever, and surprised to say it wasn't. You see I hate plot less action flicks, James Bond, Rambo, etc. any of those flicks get on my nerves. Unless it is like The Borne Identity, or 24 and actually has a good plot. I was surprised when I saw The American, it was nothing like what I expected from the previews of this film. It was smart marketing to get people in the seats, and I am sure most action movie folks were disappointed. I, however, was a very happy camper, as I fell in love with this film. I should have known George Clooney wouldn't just do some fluff. The silence in this movie is riveting, and the acting is so simple, gritty, honest, and AMAZING! George Clooney was a Revelation, and I enjoyed his performance so much! The movie was so awesome, that I want to own it, and watch it over again, as I am obsessed with the simplicity, silence, and pure genius of the whole film.

For Colored Girls

This is one of my favorite plays and it is nothing but monologues. It is intense and can be a great piece. I'm nervous and thrilled to see what Tyler Perry does with this piece as a movie. The cast looks so talented, and the movie looks great from the above preview. We shall see.....

My First Tornado

I was on the phone gabbing away with a friend, when she stops and says "turn on the news, there is a tornado watch in Brooklyn"! I immediately turn on the news, and see that the tornado is scheduled to hit at around 5pm. It is 4:30 so I think I have to walk Brewster quickly, before it gets bad around these parts. I go out and walk Brewster, it is sunny outside, and seems a little more windy than usual, but didn't think nothing of it. When all of a sudden, I see thunder and lightning from a distance way down the street. A huge cloud was following it, and as it gets closer to me, I see this wind and a spinning natural disaster ready to take me up like Dorthy in "The Wizard of Oz"! I think to myself "This sure looks like twister weather"! I pick Brewster up in my arms, and decide to run like hell for my apartment complex. I am running so fast, and am so scared, I truly thought this might be the end of my life! The wind is picking up, the rain from the distance has reached us, and a fear has come over me. I pick up the speed a little, drenched from the rain fall, I make it in time to reach the front door of my apartment. I watch from the window, as the tornado takes down cars, and trees in my neighborhood! I thank GOD I made it, because I can't imagine what it did to that tree, it could have easily had done to me. There are others watching with me, some of us drenched, some just watching, because they never seen an actual tornado. I'm so glad and thankful that Brewster wasn't Toto, and I wasn't Dorthy! Thank you GOD!!!!!!!

Mrs. Warren's Profession

I had the privilege of seeing one of my favorite actors last night in the play "Mrs. Warren's Profession", starring the amazing Cherry Jones. I sat in the audience with enthusiasm as I waited for the play to begin, as I am obsessed with Cherry Jones, and all her work! The show starts and it is a very slow beginning for a comedy. Finding the first moment in this show for the actors, never quite happened. I sat up in my seat trying to force myself to get in engaged in the story. I look over and my friend Greg is falling asleep next to me. Cherry Jones makes her entrance, in one of the most extravagant and beautiful costumes I had seen on the stage in a while. At first I'm off put by her, and trying to figure out what kind of accent she was going after. As I relaxed into the piece, and as it started to get more interesting. I realized that Cherry Jones could read the A,B, C's and I would still love her. She is just captivating on stage, and she makes the most honest choices. This play is not my favorite play, but I did enjoy the work on the stage by the incredible cast. Although the one person who should hold the play together, and who was really the lead in the piece was horrific. This women's name is Sally Hawkins, as she yelled throughout the piece, and just didn't come about as honest as I would have preferred. I think they need to fire her, and recast the lead role! At first I didn't know if it was the character I hated or was it her performance. I decided in the end it was her performance, and I am not a fan. It is a shame with such a stellar cast, Adam Driver (interesting choices and beautiful work), Mark Harelik (One of the best actors I seen awhile), Edward Hibbert (Fun, Honest, and Brilliant) and lastly Michael Siberry (Who has amazing comic timing, and stole some of the scenes)! It was an interesting night at the theater, and maybe Sally Hawkins is a good actor, but just not in this piece. Cherry Jones I have seen do better work, but that last scene was gripping, and amazing! The play itself is OK, the story is kind of interesting, and it was a preview and no telling what changes they will make to it by opening night!

Death at a Funeral vs. Death at a Funeral

I watched both the British, and the American version of "Death at a Funeral". The British version is way, way, way better. The British know how to take a story and be funny, and yet still be amazing actors and bring the drama. The American version follows the same plot line, even using some of the same lines. This movie (American Version) was produced by Chris Rock and has some of the funniest comedians in the business in it. However, it just doesn't come close to the original (British) version. It is as if the American actors were trying hard to be funny, unlike the British who just play the scenes very straight, and it makes you laugh so hard. Chris Rock I think is one of the funniest men alive, and is great at stand up comedy, however, he can't act at all. Although I will say he has grown as an actor, because he started off the worse. Highlights in the American cast is Columbus Short, Martin Lawrence, and Danny Glover, these three are the best in this version. In the British version the highlights in the cast is the whole cast. Everyone is amazing in that movie, it is hard to reproduce that feeling the British actors have so naturally. If I had to pick a favorite in the British version it would be Peter Vaughn. I am in amazement with his work, and want to see him do more. Special mention in the British version has to be Alan Tudyk and Mathew Macfadyen. That last monologue performed by Macfayden was so brilliant, and I almost put my head down in shame listening to Chris Rock attempt it. The common and interesting thread in both pieces, is that they use the same small person, in both movies,(Peter Dinklage) he gets to play the same character, twice, with two different casts. This must have been a thrill, and an interesting experience for him. I will say the British version did make watching the American version easier, if I hadn't seen this first, I would probably be bored!!!! I think it is worth taking the journey and seeing both pieces for yourself, let me know what you think blog world???

The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo #1

This blog entry will be a three part series, as I write about the book, the Foreign Film, and the American film.

As I ride the train, I would see this yellow book in every ones hand. I finally got a glimpse of what everyone was reading, and I went to the book store and bought it. "The Girl With The Dragoon Tattoo", was the title of the book, I read the back of it, and it seemed very interesting, and different for me. What they heck, everyone was reading it, so I thought why not? I started to read the book, and I had to read the first chapter twice. I had no idea what heck the writer Stieg Larsson was talking about. It was so confusing, and filled with so many facts. My brain hurt, but something in me said keep on going. I got to about chapter five, and I almost gave up again. This book is so so so boring! I felt illiterate, as if my reading comprehension was not up to snuff. Again I decided to challenge myself, and keep on going. When I tell you, I am so happy I took this challenge, as I kept reading this book, it got so amazing. The story is so well written, and intense. I am obsessed with the character the girl with the dragon tattoo named Salander. I can envision her in my mind and had an instant connection to her. The story is filled with drama, murder, mystery, journalism, fight, sex, and revenge. The mystery and intrigue in this book is so intense, that I couldn't put it down. I am so excited to see the film, the foreign film is first on my list in my netflix queue. The American version is not released yet, and I can't wait to report to you on both of them. I want to be more detailed in my blog entry, but I won't give it away. I think everyone should join me, and the folks on the train, and read this book. It is writing at it's best, and it is a story that I promise will keep you on the edge of your seat!

Museum Project 3 (The Brooklyn Museum)

On our third museum project, I took Tiffany to The Brooklyn Museum, right up the street from my apartment. It was a beautiful walk as the sun beat our backs. Tiffany always shows up on our museum dates, looking stunning. I love the time I spend with this girl, and I think it is the best idea we have ever had. I know I said we would go to a museum once a month. However, we both have lives, and busy schedules. Therefore our museum dates are when we can get together.

We walk into the stunning museum and it so huge, with so many exhibits, that we didn't get to see the whole thing. However, we chose exhibits that intrigued us. We started with Andy Warhol, and me being from Pittsburgh like Warhol, I was excited to see what the museum had to offer. I will say that was the weakest Warhol exhibit I had ever seen. Maybe I am bias, after seeing the amazing Andy Warhol Museum in my hometown of Pittsburgh. The works they had up, weren't interesting to me at all, and couldn't like a candle to Mr. Warhol's Pittsburgh exhibit.

Then we went through the African exhibit, which was beautiful and intriguing, and I decided that I just love African Art. The masks, the spheres, to the traditional and cultural things I got to see! I want a room in my house dedicated to African Art, it is just so interesting to me.

Finally we went up to floor five, which was my favorite part of the whole museum. I saw so much amazing contemporary pieces, and there were so many things I wanted to hang on my wall. Others that reminded me of my childhood. Pieces that made me sad, and some that made me just want to do cart wheels. I love art when it makes you feel all kinds of emotions, and when you stare into the soul of it, and it takes you to a different place. Tiffany and I had a wonderful time reminiscing on black culture, from jherri curls, to the S curl, to the box, and perms! To the movies we saw, the music we listened to, the colors that made no sense to me. To the colors that took me on a journey. Art...

I had the privilege of watching the TV show "Work Of Art" on Bravo, and I got to see the winners exhibit. Abdi Farah, won the whole thing, and his work of art is playing The Brooklyn Museum. I told Tiffany, that I couldn't leave until I seen his exhibit, and it was even better in person than on the TV show! You have to go see this new talents work, as it touched me in a current but yet a renaissance sort of way. This man has found himself and has such a prevalent story to tell. I'm glad I got to see it.

Tiffany and I left the museum with so much to discuss, and with a better understanding of each other. I loved the Brooklyn museum, and I need to walk up the street to see the rest of it. If you end up in Brooklyn, you have to check out this cultural genius of a building.

The Emmy Awards 2010

I want to put on note The Emmy's were brilliant this season! As you know I love Awards Shows, and this one was just a smash from beginning to end. The director and the show, deserve an Emmy for there work. LOL! The opening montage with the Glee kids, just made me so happy, and was one of the funniest, most clever, and entertaining openings I had seen in awhile. Jimmy Fallon was an amazing choice, and I think they should go with him again for next years telecast. His timing was superb, and he kept the show moving at a great pace!

The awards had some surprises, and it was interesting to see the homosexuals clean up in the comedy T.V. category. Homosexuals have come a long way in the T.V. medium. It was amazing to see Jane Lynch, Neil Patrick Harris, and I am assuming that nerdy dude from "The Big Bang Theory" is gay-- Jim Parsons, Ryan Murphy, and Eric Stonestreet from Modern Family ( Who is not gay, but plays a gay character)win! Who would have thunk it, but I guess gay folks are funny.

Edie Falco who won for her performance on "Nurse Betty", started by saying "I am not funny", that is a tough category, to be a comedic actress nominee, and be a dramatic actress on a comedy show. This can be very tricky, and I am sure hard to vote. Just as I feel the same for Toni Colliette, and a couple other people nominated in this genre.

My least favorite speech of the night was Kyra Sedgwick, her speech came off very cold, and prepared. Some friends tweeted, and on facebook said she seemed like a bitch. I think she is probably a wonderful lady, but she has to work on winning an award. She read her speech which I usually hate, but it had no heart and feeling.

The other interesting part of the show was the awards for mini-series, it was like every show was from HBO! HBO swept the mini-series category. There were so many good ones this season, and it was interesting to see who was going to win. Temple Grandin being my favorite. It was nice to see Claire Danes win for her work. As I blogged about her and the show awhile back. Check it out, I predict her win for best actress. She was the belle of the ball and looked amazing. It was also great to see my idol Al Pachino win, as he gave a socially awkward speech. I'm so mesmerized by his work, and I have to work with him one day! Lastly to see the project "The Pacific" win, this massive project should win, for the amount of detail and work they put into it.

Jewel sang during the memorandum, which was done with such class, and taste! I'm telling you the Emmy Awards was the show to watch. The Tony's, The Oscar's, and The Golden Globes need to take note on how an award show should be run. BRAVO!!!!

My New Food Obsession

I can't tell you how it feels to come out the gym, feeling like you had a good work out. Starving, and walking the streets looking for a good eat, that is healthy! Well, I have a new obsession and it is called The Muscle Maker Grill! When I tell you this place is full of only health food products, protein bars, shakes, only diet drinks, and just some of the most amazing food ever! I have been three times after the gym, and they have everything from pasta to wraps to Asian style foods. Proving that you can eat healthy, and it still can taste really good. The food is so amazing, and you wouldn't even know you are eating stuff that is good for you. I am obsessed with this place, and thus far my favorites are The Arizona, (picture is above) and the penne alla vodka with Shrimp! MMMMMMMM...I'm so obsessed with this place that if I had money, I would invest asap. You have to try the Muscle Maker Grill, and you will leave satisfied, and not feeling fat! Who can ask for anything more!!!!!???!!!!!