Monthly Archives: November 2011

The Muppets (2011)

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As a child, I have fond memories of watching The Muppet Show and enjoying the mix of comedy, music, and dance with my family and recapping the show with my friends the following day. Kermit, Ms. Piggy, Fozzie the Bear, and the whole gang were my childhood icons and provided countless hours of entertainment with their brilliant and inspired variety show as well as the three movies that followed. It is hard to believe that 1989 was the last time the gang graced the big screen with “The Muppets in Space”. Thankfully they are back in a big way to delight fans, old and new, this holiday season.

The new films stars Jason Segel as Gary, a mild-mannered guy who has a swell life in his small community. He has been dating the lovely Mary (Amy Adams) for ten years and they are excited to plan their first visit to Los Angeles. Gary has a younger brother named Walter who is a huge fan of the Muppets, having grown up watching the beloved show with Gary. The fact that Walter actually is a Muppet might explain his utter devotion to the show and characters. So when Gary invites Walter to accompany Mary and him on their trip, Walter is ecstatic. At long last, he can visit The Muppet Studios.

Upon their arrival in L.A., Walter is shocked to find the studio in shambles and disrepair. Undaunted, Walter sneaks into Kermit’s old office and accidentally overhears a businessman named Tex Richman (Chris Cooper) plotting to steal the property from the Muppets. Determined to thwart Richman, Walter and Gary look up Kermit the Frog who, despite his reluctance, agrees to reunite the gang to put on a tele-thon to raise the needed money to save the theater.

Along the way there are some great and touching segments where we see what many of the characters have been up to in the recent years, and more than a few laughs and musical numbers also follow. In a race against time, and despite the lack of confidence the network has in their relevance, Kermit must whip the cast and theater into shape for an epic performance.

The movie was an absolute joy. It was so refreshing to see how Segel and director James Bobin have brought the Muppets to a new generation without losing the previous ones and staying very faithful to the characters and to Jim Henson’s vision. Segel, who came up with the story and co-wrote the script, seems to be having the time of his life as he sings and dances his way through several production numbers and gives a very funny, and in turns, tender performance.

Adams is a joy as the sweet, yet determined Mary, and the addition of the new Muppet Walter was a treat. Sure the plot may have been fairly formulaic but there were more than enough moments to keep the adults happy. At our screener, the adults were laughing even lauder than the kids in attendance, especially at the numerous pop culture reference, celebrity cameos, and nostalgic nods to the show.

I do not want to spoil the film but from Beaker doing his take on the Nirvana classic “Smells Like Teen Spirit”, to the Swedish Chef channeling Tony Montana from “Scarface” I was thoroughly entertained. I can honestly say this is not only one of the best of the Muppet movies but it is a perfect film to take the family. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself enjoying the magic as much, if not more, than the kids.

4 stars out of 5

Latest Skewed and Reviewed Magazine Causes Huge Controversy With Geek Girl Images

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Less than 24 hrs after first publishing our latest magazine, we have been getting some negative responses over our use of a Geek Girl Centerfold.

Our policy was that we will not show any nudity and want Models who are normal people that are involved in gaming and the Geek Culture.

Citing the folloing article…
Eating Disorder article for Geek Gamers

Some FB followers have blasted the inclusion and have gone so far as to say they will not only stop following the site and magazine but will contact the site and magazine sponsors to voice their displeasure.

Others have welcomed the additon and defended the models saying they have a natural and healthy look and do not look to thin.


The image below is what has caused the issue and it is one of 6 in the new magazine. You can check out the issue and images for free at
Issue 7 and 8 for Free


What are your thoughts?


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2011 Holiday Gift Guide and Free Issues 7 and 8 of Our Magazine Free for Digital and Ipad use.

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56 pages filled with our 2011 Holiday Gift Guide, two Geek Gil Centerfolds, Guild Wars 2, RAGE, PAX Prime, Blizzcon 2011, Travel articles, and so much more.


At Magcloud


Issues 7 and 8. Digital and Ipad Versions

If you do not want to have to sign up for Free Magcloud access you can download the PDF version for free at the following URLS


At Badongo


Issue 7/8 PDF


On Our Skydrive


Skydrive PDF


Winter Issue is the correct file for Skydrive.

Twilight: Breaking Dawn Part 1

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The pop culture phenomenon that is Twilight is wrapping up as the film adaptation of the final book in the series, Twilight: Breaking Dawn, has arrived in theaters. With the previous three films doing brisk business at the box office, it came as no surprise when it was announced that the final book in the series was being split into two films so that the studio could maximize the box office of the series.

The film opens with awkward, melancholy teen Bella (Kristen Stewart), preparing for her wedding to Edward (Robert Pattinson), as their human and vampire friends assemble for the ceremony. Of course Edward’s rival Jacob (Tayler Lautner), is highly against the union as he still carries a flame for Bella. Nonetheless, the ceremony goes off as planned and Edward whisks Bella away to a remote Brazilian island to consummate their union, which apparently is a tricky endeavor, being that she is still a mortal and he is a century old vampire.

What at first is an ideal honeymoon is soon complicated when Bella and Edward discover an unexpected challenge that threatens Bella’s well-being and poses a threat to the pact between the vampires and werewolves. I will not spoil the film, even though fans of the series and books will not be any strangers to the drama and politics of the situation, but suffice it to say there is a lot on the line for all of the characters involved.

The film was rife with issues, the main one being the atrocious acting. One would think that after three previous films with the same cast, these actors would have developed some timing and chemistry with one another, especially Stewart and Pattinson who are a couple offscreen. Nothing could be further from the truth as they stiffly deliver their lines with pained and remote expressions. I am honestly at a loss as to why Bella is so captivating to both Edward and Jacob
as she is basically a dour girl who looks incredibly uncomfortable in her own skin, and yet the two are utterly captivated by her. I found the supporting cast far more interesting than the heroine and her besotted heroes. Another issue I had was that Pattinson, who got to show his acting ability in “Water for Elephants” is given little to do aside from staring at Bella and doing profile shots.

The first half of the film is basically an MTV-style wedding and honeymoon music video but the second half of the film did manage to grab and hold my attention with the ongoing plot points. It is obvious that the story is being stretched to cover two films as there are numerous unnecessary scenes such as people walking up stairs, throwing things in a garbage can, looking in mirrors, which serve little purpose other than increasing the run time of the film. Of course all of this matters little to fans of the series. The studio knows who the core audience is and the movie panders to them every chance they can, as proven by Lautner doffing his shirt not 60 seconds into the film to the squeals of delight from the teens, tweens and grown women in the audience.

Still, because it pits the Cullens against the werewolves who were their allies in the previous film, Breaking Dawn is better than the previous films. While it raises the angst and tension, it does not provide much growth for the actors as they dutifully go through the motions as best they can with the material. While it attempts to be a darker and more mature film, it still comes across as eye candy and fantasy for young women when the story and cast deserved so
much more. That being said, the film stays true to it’s core audience and gives them exactly what they have come to expect and does not stray from what has been a successful formula.

2.5 stars out of 5.

Happy Feet Two

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Mumble is back and dancing his way back into our hearts. Happy Feet Two is a follow up to the 2006 Academy Award winning movie, Happy Feet directed by George Miller. Mumble (Elijah Wood) is now married to Gloria (Alecia “PiNK” Moore, who replaced the late Brittany Murphy) and they have a son, Erik (Ava Acres).

Mumble struggles to help Erik with his insecurities and inability to find his own heart song and dance steps. Erik ends up running away from Emperorland with a couple of friends, following the love struck Ramon (Robin Williams). Unsuccessful in love within Mumble’s penguin community, Ramon decides to head back to Adelieland and falls for Carmen (Sophia Vergara) who, of course, plays hard to get. So begins Ramon’s hilarious attempts at trying to win Carmen’s affection. While on their adventure, Erik and company stumble across Sven (Hank Azaria), a puffin that is mistaken for a penguin who can fly. Erik becomes enamored with Sven’s ability to fly and attempts to follow in Sven’s footsteps.

Once Mumble has found the runaway chicks, he forces them to return to Emperorland. Upon their return to home, they find a landslide has caused an iceberg to shift and ends up trapping their colony with no way out. Mumble must find help before it’s too late. In flies the self-help guru and fraud Sven to come and teach the penguins how to fly. Meanwhile, other animals in peril are an elephant seal (Anthony Lapaglia) and a couple of codependent krill named Will (Brad Pitt) and Bill (Matt Damon) who realized that their only place in life is to provide sustenance for the whales. Unwilling to succumb to their fate, the delusional Will forces the terrified Bill to swim away from their swarm and become omnivores in an attempt to move up the food chain.

In the end all these stories tie together to show a strong sense of community among different species. I do believe George Miller seems to have taken more of a commercialized approach when creating this movie. Miller once again attempts to send an eco-message regarding global warming with Happy Feet Two. Unfortunately the sequel’s message does not create the same emotional and heartfelt impact as its predecessor. Miller focused more on entertaining and visuals and less on the actual storyline which was very choppy and quite odd at times.

The animators definitely give Pixar a run for their money with their amazing Antarctica scenery details, their incredible animal close-up shots, the undersea moments with the krill and spectacular action sequences. The movie may not have had the substance of the first movie; however it was definitely enjoyable to watch. There was lots of dancing, singing and great laugh-out-loud moments; an absolute visual delight.

3.5 stars out of 5

Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour By Cirque Du Soleil

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The King of Pop Michael Jackson is remembered worldwide as a unique man who changed the world of pop music forever. He was a man with a heart of a child who only wanted the world to be a better place. Through his lyrics he expressed the trials and tribulations of the world today and through his inspirational messages of how we can with love and unity, change the future of tomorrow’s youth and the future of the world around us.

Leading concert director and multiple Emmy award nominee Jamie King, along with Cirque Du Soleil and the estate of Michael Jackson have created Michael Jackson the Immortal World Tour. This production takes audiences back to the beginning with Michael Jackson’s origins with the unforgettable music of the Jackson 5, his iconic dance moves, and music which gained him legions of fans worldwide.

Cirque Du Soleil combines the choreography and music that we are all familiar with, along with elements of a circus, fantasy, bright lights, vibrant colors, unforgettable sets and talented performers. The show includes elements of surprise and fantasy with bits of humor and sadness portrayed by a mime who in spirit gains all the talents of MJ. An amazing contortionist right out of the pages of a book of Tales from “Is it Scary”, a “Dangerous” acrobatic pole dance, a sensual aerialistic tango at “This Place Hotel”, and much more. There are so many other exciting elements and acts that pay homage to the great songs such as “Wanna be starting Something”, “Smooth Criminal”, “Beat It”, “Billie Jean”, “Black and White” and my personal favorite “Thriller”.

I have loved Michael Jackson’s music and moves ever since I can remember I even remember a failed attempt by my father who tried to teach me to moonwalk. Those were the days, and though the king of pop is gone he has been immortalized within his lyrics and thanks to this production fans can come together and remember. The audience gets a chance to experience the unique and eccentric nature that is the Cirque. This was my very first Cirque Du Soleil performance and it exceeded my expectations 100%. The costumes, the instruments, the many international performers and surprises the show has to offer makes it an absolute must see.

The show brought myself and the audience laughter, joy and sometimes a tear here and there. The energy from the performers and the audience was magical and really made it feel like MJ himself was watching and enjoying with us. I am so excited and thankfull to have had the opportunity to experience the most amazing show that I have ever seen and am excited to see what else Cirque Du Soleil has to offer in the future.

Tour Dates and Ticket Information

The Hunger Games Trailer

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Every year in the ruins of what was once North America, the evil Capitol of the nation of Panem forces each of its twelve districts to send a teenage boy and girl to compete in the Hunger Games. A twisted punishment for a past uprising and an ongoing government intimidation tactic, The Hunger Games are a nationally televised event in which “Tributes” must fight with one another until one survivor remains.

Pitted against highly-trained Tributes who have prepared for these Games their entire lives, Katniss is forced to rely upon her sharp instincts as well as the mentorship of drunken former victor Haymitch Abernathy. If she’s ever to return home to District 12, Katniss must make impossible choices in the arena that weigh survival against humanity and life against love.

Immortals

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By Phe’dre Von Kallenbach

Whenever a movie based on Greek myth comes along, I always get excited, especially if one of the main characters is my own namesake. However, like all recent movies based upon Greek myth, Euripides’ and Seneca’s versions were more likely to be suggestive concepts vs. guidelines themselves. Like “Clash of the Titans,” this movie fails to impress on anything other than special effects.

Henry Cavill, who blew me away in “the Tudors” failed to elicit any reaction from me as a viewer. And trust me, the man is gorgeous, so how that happened, I have no idea. Instead of being the son of a prince, we are greeted with Theseus’ past as his being dubbed a “bastard” (in the myth, his mother was a queen and he had dual fathers – Poseidon and King Aegeus). Obviously, that part of the myth was rather overlooked here. Phaedra, on the other hand, my namesake, is portrayed here as a virgin priestess, as seer, if you will. Last I checked, she was the daughter of King Minos and no such thing. But hey, this is a loose adaptation right? Let’s not even bother talking about the Titans and Hyperion at this rate. You can all see where I’m going with this.

Regardless, despite it’s rather loose adaptation of Greek myth, I tried, as I did with “Clash of the Titans” and “Troy” to see beyond the myth and focus on the movie. And I was bored. To tears. You see, I love historical fiction. I love fantasy. But this movie bored me in a way that I cannot even begin to profess. It was the same rehashed love story as portrayed in “Clash of the Titans” and “Troy”. Basically, “Immortals” was “Clash of the Titans” with different actors, different gods/goddesses, and a few other tweaks here and there. Bad guy trying to ruin the world, check. Gorgeous, but cursed goddess/female lead, check. The fate of the world resting in the hands of an untried, and yet god-touched youth? check. See the equation here?

My point being: if you want an action movie with a bit of fantasy tied here, this one is for you. If you want a thought-provoking, Greek-myth-representing fantasy, then this isn’t for you. In the end, like “300,” no girl can hate on the ceaseless display of toned pecs and six-pack abs. Alas, only Mickey Rourke sports the beard this time.

C+ rating for me. Not God-awful (did you get my pun? ha!) but not exactly an amazing example of cinematography.

Actress Ellen Dubin Talks About Her Character in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

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Recently I got to speak to the talented Ellen Dubin about her work in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. Ellen has a very long list of television and film credites which include LEXX,The Collector, Napoleon Dynamite, and The Pending Dead Before Dawn. Ellen also has done voice work for games and animated shows.

What can you tell us about your character in Skyrim?

What I found fascinating about my character in Skyrim was the great gamut of emotions I got to play. When you first get cast in a game, you don’t know till you are recording what the character entails because you only see the dialogue at the actual sessions. So when I initially auditioned for COMMON WOMAN , I thought it was just going to be a small role. But, it was a juicy meaty feast – - I got to use both my comedy and dramatic skills. Had a blast playing this multilayered role and loved all the directions she could go in depending on what the Player chose to do with this character.
I loved Common Woman

How did you become attached to the project?

My wonderful voice agent Tom Lawless at VOX in Los Angeles sent me the sides for the project and I auditioned by self- taping some of the dialogue in my own closet for a wide variety of roles in SKYRIM.
The casting director/ production supervisor Timothy Cubbison of BlindlLight heard my read and I guess along with the creative team at Betheseda Software cast me in the role.

I am very grateful to be a part of such an iconic game with such an incredibly strong cast of actors and an astounding production team.

What type of research did you do for the part and have you played any of the previous games in the series?

I went online to see what type of game it was and if there were any diagrams or drawings of the game – just to get a sense of style. I had not played any of the previous games in the series. I went in and basically used my actor skills and “played” the role using my voice. I just jumped in and with the help of the creative gang did my best!

How many sessions did you record for the game and over how long of a timeframe?

The game recording for my character was done pretty quickly in a few short months and if I remember correctly, I had about five four hour sessions for the recording process. They were very well thought out recording sessions- The creative team was very organized and thoughtful because there were major screaming sections in the script . So they always made sure we did the intense shout outs at the end of the session to preserve our voices.

How much input did you have into the character and were you able to see visuals of her and the game at any point in the process?

What is so impressive about working on a game of this calibre, is that it is all worked out for you- they have done years of research and basically they are so aware of what they want and need , that you just go for it. Yes , when I am recording and I decide to try another way to do a line, they were very open to me playing around with it. But I loved the fact that they were so specific with the direction.They have worked with these characters for years and know their backgrounds so I welcomed their notes. We would usually record a few variations on the line so they could fit whatever version would work best with the game once it was all put together.

I did see a a visual before the first session begun. The wonderful sessions director Brenda Phillips showed me a diagram of Common Woman. The character was a very different physical type then I am. I am long tall and lean and she was short stocky and round.
LOVE IT!

In what ways were recording lines for the game similar and different from past voice work and from traditional acting?

I love video games more then any other form of voice work because I am able to use my well trained acting chops and apply them.

The style is very cinematic so my tv and film background is a huge factor when I am recording. I find strong objectives and have to turn on a dime and change direction quickly.
This is more subtle work then doing an animated film – A pause , a beat can change the whole direction of a character whether it be a comedic or a dramatic turn.

I approach all my voice work from an actor’s point of view because that is my training. I dont’ think about the sound of my voice, I think about the intention – the relationship I have with the other characters ( even though in voice work , you are not working with another actor in the studio) – You have to imagine ,he or she is there. So that is even more of a challenge then traditional acting. You also have to have a huge imagination because you are talking about a whole new world you have never heard of. I love creating and being part of another universe. My sci fi background definitely helped me with this element.

The game is set to launch to tremendous expectations, do you have any nerves over how gamers will respond to your character knowing how serious they take the series?

I am not nervous at all . I know in my gut ( just from the sections I recorded) that this game is going to be huge and absolutely astounding. I am not sure how they will take to my specific character but I can’t worry about that- Like any job I do, I commit one million percent . I have to love what I do with passion and dedication and hopefully the fans will appreciate it. This is one stunning game!
I am one small cog in a huge magnificent wheel!

How did your character evolve over your sessions as I am guessing there were constant changes and additions to your lines as the game development grew.

The character had many different scenarios to record. What if the Player went this way with you what would happen? What if he went the other way?

So we taped many versions depending on the choices of the Player.
I found that fascinating- I never quite knew what was going on but loved the challenge of creating something strong and compelling for the Player.

The final session only took about fifteen minutes with very few additional lines- For a game of this size and magnitude, these creators were really on their game. Excuse the pun!


2 010print

J. Edgar

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When I first heard about this movie, it intrigued me. When I heard that it starred Leonardo Dicaprio and was directed by Clint Eastwood, I was hooked. And I must say, that with a few small exceptions, the film definitely lived up to expectations for me.

J. Edgar is the story of Hoover’s rise to “power”, as told by J. Edgar Hoover. The movie takes place during three different time periods: when Hoover was just a budding employee of the Department of Justice and his involvement in the creation of the Bureau of Investigation; flash forward to Kennedy’s time in the office of the President of the United States of America, and finally during Nixon’s short-lived administration.

Throughout the film we see the influence that Hoover had in the government at the time. Of course, at the beginning of his career, he had very little. But through lies, deceit and manipulation he quickly became very influential. He began building his “personal files” very early on, which he used to blackmail and coerce government officials into many things, but most of all to keep his position as head of the FBI.

Throughout the film we see J. Edgar Hoover’s struggle with his controlling mother, his sexuality and his political opponents. His mother, Annie Hoover, played by Dame Judi Dench, saw Hoover as the savior of their family name. It had been disgraced in her eyes by his mentally ill father. She was his guiding voice in all areas of his life, including appearance, stature and his sexuality.

We see Hoover make advances towards Helen Gandy, played by Naomi Watts, who is a typist who becomes his personal assistant his entire life. Hoover’s demeanor around her is awkward at best, and she makes it very clear that she is focusing on her career. Shortly after the creation of the Bureau of Investigations he meets Clyde Tolson, played by Armie Hammer of The Social Network fame. It quickly becomes obvious that there is chemistry between these two.

The film takes us all the way to Hoover’s death and the many things he has accomplished, or perhaps did not accomplish, in between. Remember that I said that this a story of J. Edgar Hoover as told by the man himself. This plays into the film in a very great way. Overall, this is definitely a must-see film as it is a great drama sprinkled with spots of humor. I can see a trio of Oscar nominations with this film for Clint Eastwood in directing, and for Leonardo Dicaprio and Armie Hammer in acting.

4.5 stars out of 5.

Ellen Dubin Talks About Dead Before Dawn The First Canadian 3D Zombie Movie

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Recently I got to speak with Ellen Dubin about her work on the film Dead Before Dawn. Ellen has worked in such genre classic as Lexx, The Collector, and numerous other film, television, and game projects.

What can you tell us about the new 3D Zombie film you have coming up and how you became involved?

I am absolutely thrilled to be a part of DEAD BEFORE DAWN -the first 3D zombie movie ever made in Canada. I got a call when I was in Los Angeles working on a video game – Guild Wars 2- that I had been offered the role because the producers were big fans of my work in NAPOLEON DYNAMITE. I had never met them , never read for them and a few days later I found myself heading on a plane to Niagara Falls, Ontario Canada. Love the way April Mullen and Tim Doiron did that- They just offered the role to me. How rare is that!

Zombies are huge right now so I was so excited to be a part of this cast of fabulous actors.And one of my heroes Christopher Lloyd plays my father!!!!! They have also added to the zombie legend by creating zemon characters- 1/2 zombie, 1/2 demon- all zemon! You will have to see the movie to see what these unique characters are about.

What can you tell us about your character?

I play a very sweet , doting old-fashioned type of mother ( almost a throwback to a Leave it To Beaver 1950′s type of mom) who becomes possessed and turns into an evil vindictive zemon.
I am the mother of the male lead played by the wonderful Devon Bostick from the DIARY OF A WIMPY KID franchise.

Any concerns about filming in 3D as compared to traditional filming?

I love a challenge so my only concern was making sure I was focused and very specific in my work. It is almost like working with green screen techniques – in that the work has to be very accurate . Also would hate to see myself so big and blown up in 3D but I will stand at the back of the theater when I see my huge image on the screen.
I had a riot throwing things at the camera and staring down the barrel of the lens. Fun to thrust things forward to the camera so when the audience sees it , the 3D experience is enhanced by our actions.

Are you a fan of horror and what can you tell us about the cast and characters in the film?

Hey I was afraid of the wicked witch in THE WIZARD OF OZ up until a few years ago and that isn’t even a horror movie. I appreciate the genre but am always looking through my hand to watch most of these movies so I don’t see a lot of them because I am a big chicken.

The cast is an impressive line up of some hot young actors. Martha Macisaac from SUPERBAD , Brandon Jay McLaren from THE KILLING, Rossif Sutherland, Kyle Schmid, April Mullen and Tim Doiron. And of course Devon Bostick who plays my son and the incomparable Christopher Lloyd who plays my father. It is a comedy / horror/adventure movie.

What are some of your favorite horror films and how does one prepare for a film like this?

I don’t go to see a lot of horror films but if I do- I love films that you don’t see the blood and gore- More in the old style of thriller/horror like Alfred Hitchcock movies. It is what you don’t see that is frightening. I still get scared by the EXORCIST.

I am not a huge fan of the SAW chain of torture porn movies not because they aren’t well done but because the combination of violence and horror is something I find hard to watch and take. PARANORMAL ACTIVITY was well done on a low budget!

I am a big fan of the new AMC series THE WALKING DEAD – it is so well acted and well done.
I am also a fan of the new show AMERICAN HORROR STORY on the FX channel- it gives me the creeps!

The only preparation I did for the film was watch SHAUN OF THE DEAD because I knew it combined zombies with comedy so I wanted to see the way the director and actors handled the combo platter of comedy and horror. Great movie, by the way.

And then I dove in with all of my theater and dance background when it came to creating the zemon character and had a fabulous time doing it. I am a great screamer from all my voice work so I added that to the mix. One perfect evil crazy zemon!
Great great fun!

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Skewed and Reviewed Team With Child’s Play To Help Children’s Hospitals

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The Children Need your help. Please help by donating, spreading the word, or signing up. Every little bit helps.

Widget to Donate or Post

We are happy to announce our first annual Gamers Who Care Charity event.

Join your fellow gamers worldwide for a great cause on December 10th-11th Skewed and Reviewed is raising money for Childsplay. The money raised will benefit Children’s Hospitals and you can learn more about this great organization at
Childsplay

All you need to do is to donate via the widget, get sponsors to sponsor you or your team as you play for a good cause, and spread the word.

Simply form your team or play as an individual December 10-11th and know that you are making the holidays that much better for sick children.

To register, send me an e-mail at gareth@sknr.net or click the widget to donate. You can also post the widget/link on your site or pass it along to help out.

Tower Heist

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In the movie Tower Heist, the employees of The Tower, a ritzy high-rise condominium in New York City, fall victim to a Ponzi scheme and lose their 401(k). Now normally there wouldn’t be anything they could do about it but Arthur Shaw (Alan Alda), the one behind the Ponzi scheme, is one of the residents at The Tower.

Josh Kovacs (Ben Stiller), former general anager of The Tower, has an idea to steal the defrauded employees’ money back, but he needs help with his grand scheme. Josh brings in his brother-in-law Cole Howard (Casey Affleck) and Rick Malloy (Michael Pena). Both are former employees and as such have a score to settle. Josh also enlists the help of Odessa Montero (Gabourey Sidibe) who is currently a maid at the Tower and Chase Fitzhugh (Matthew Broderick), a former resident.

While eager to do what they believe is right, the group does not have a background in crime, so Josh brings in Slide (Eddie Murphy), a thief from his neighborhood that he has known since childhood. Will this band of merry men and woman be successful and save the day Robin Hood-style or will they run afoul of FBI Agent Claire Denham (Tea Leoni)?

The film has a very entertaining story that unfolds beautifully and a better cast would be impossible to find. Now with that said, there were some parts in the movie that were distracting to me because I could not suspend my disbelief that far, however, I can’t say what they are due to the fact that I do not want to spoil any scenes for you.

Eddie Murphy did an amazing job of keeping his character realistic and at the same time unbelievably funny. Without a doubt every scene Murphy is in is golden. Not only did Alan Alda’s character get arrested for stealing people’s money but he almost stole the show. And even though every fiber of my being wanted to dislike his character, who is an arrogant, self-righteous, demeaning jerk; Alda portrayed him in such a way that I was actually sort of hoping that the character would get away with it. Now I know all you Benheads out there are asking “What about Ben Stiller?” You all will be happy to know that he was great, he was definitely the humorous glue that held the movie together. Matthew Broderick, Michael Pena and Casey Affleck were all very entertaining though at times Casey gets drowned out by the others. Last but certainly not least Gabourey Sidibe and Tea Leoni were both great and incredibly funny however they did not get anywhere near as much screen time as I would have liked.

4.25 out of 5 Chess Moves (movie reference)

A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas

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A Very Harold and Kumar 3D Christmas is the third movie in the Harold and Kumar series. This movie takes place six years after the events of Escape from Guantanamo Bay. Harold Lee (John Cho) and Kumar Patel (Kal Penn) have fallen out of touch since Harold got married, got a job on Wall Street and moved to the suburbs. Kumar is still smoking tons of weed. Harold on the other hand has stopped smoking weed and is desperately trying to find a way to impress his father in-law, Mr. Perez, played by Danny Trejo. Mr. Perez is obsessed with Christmas. Every year his family uses a Christmas tree that he has grown. This year he brought his home grown tree to Harold’s house for Christmas. In an attempt to win Mr. Perez over, Harold encourages Mr. Perez to take the family to midnight mass while Harold decorates the tree while they are gone.

Kumar is still living in the same apartment that he shared with Harold. He has let the place go a bit while he has been living on his own. His ex-girlfriend shows up to tell him she is pregnant, but since Kumar is high he doesn’t act very mature about it. Later, as Kumar is getting ready to go to a party with his new friend, he finds a mysterious package at his door addressed to Harold. Kumar decides to take it by Harold’s house on his way to the party. When he gets there Harold and Kumar catch up a little bit over some egg nog. Harold opens the package and discovers it is a giant joint, which Kumar proceeds to light it up. Harold gets upset and throws the joint out of the window. It then magically comes back inside and burns down the tree. Of course this freaks Harold out and a desperate search for a new tree begins

This is the beginning of a hysterical journey . This roller coaster ride is filled with drugs, sex, gangsters and even more drugs. Of course Neil Patrick Harris comes back to be his crude self. This movie has a lot of good Christmas moments, but it is only for a mature audience. Fans of the first two Harold and Kumar movies will love the third installment. A Very Harold and Kumar 3D Christmas is a non stop laugh fest. The 3D in this movie was surprisingly good. Movie goers will be impressed by the two different kinds of snow and the weed smoke going out over the audience. A Very Harold and Kumar 3D Christmas is bound to become a Christmas classic that you will want to watch every year.

3.5 stars out of 5