Thursday, May 29, 2008 Rachaels Wardrobe Malfunction? POST A COMMENT Always smiling -- for no reason -- that alone should have clued us off to the evil behind her secret messages...'no human being is that happy. and then came the scarf..."Absolutely no symbolism was intended," the company said. But, we know better...I'm watching you -- (points fingers to eyes, and back at Rachael Ray). Source: Associated Press Labels: dunkin donuts, News Trends, Rachael Ray posted by Henry Cruz at 2:51 PM Wednesday, May 28, 2008 Survey: that really-really Good Wife? POST A COMMENT Are you-one-of-those that harp 'bout how things were better back-in-the day? - 'wishing for simple-times, when marriage had all those hard-to-find things -- like romance, respect and decorum of ye olden' '30s? This old “marital rating scale,” - (used by marriage counsellors in 1939 to assess the performance of wives) – will spook us modern couples brought up to "believe in the equality of the sexes." I'm one-of-those that believe: treat-others-the-way-you-want-be treated...'but, go-on and call me old fashion, I like a mate to pay attention in "bed" -- in this old survey women are "deducted points if they are “slow in coming to bed”, “fail to sew on buttons or darn socks regularly” and flirt with other men at parties." -- hmm, this one comment from a british reader struck me funny: "I am heartened to see so many husbands have allowed their wives use of the computer." - technology will make some folks a bit-uppity. Source: Telegraph UK Labels: Culture, marriage posted by Henry Cruz at 2:32 PM Tuesday, May 27, 2008 Basic-coming-of-age-road Film... POST A COMMENT I sat in for an advanced screening of Martin Hynes' INDIE-Flick: "The Go-Getter" - (opening June 6th)...'Not much on story here; just your basic-coming-of-age-road-film. However, along the way, the main character meets a bunch of quirky characters -- (included is a scene-stealing cameo played by Bill Duke, who alone is worth the price of admission). The films strongest point is the visual eye-candy from a well-shot road picture; especially since I didn't feel any sympathy for the script's lead character -- (written with a one-note-self-absorbed-angst that borders right on the edge of self-pretentious B.S.) -- which is a big problem when that annoying character is then in every scene of the film. More Info: Go-Getter Film site Opens in limited release: June 6, 2008 Labels: indie film, movie review, the Go-Getter posted by Henry Cruz at 10:09 PM Monday, May 26, 2008 Business-101: everyone's a co-creator POST A COMMENT "Everything that becomes digital eventually becomes free. There's almost no stopping it," says Chris Anderson (Wired Magazine) -- I wrote about this idea in an earlier blog: giving it away free online -(where you would make money by later targeting smaller premium customers). But, now let's move on to the broader Future of Business online -- (noting successful examples as a foundation for the building blocks of the future: Google, Wikipedia, craigslist, and various free shareware software...). This trend, let's call it an "evolution" -- (or "revolution" -- depending on which side of the fence you sit on) -- leaves the happy-online-user no-longer-willing-to pay for information-content -- (think of it as a Wikipedia-business-model to wrap your brain around it...or using every one's brain-power to make our next set of fancy new toys). Welcome to "Co-create" - that new buzz world you'll be hearing about if you wanna stay in business; 'the success of all new businesses will now depend on more "consumer-oriented" experiences to survive... "The idea is that...companies no longer invent new products and services on their own." claims Fortune Magazine. "They create them along with their customers, and they do it in a way that produces a unique experience for each customer." Bottom line: No longer can business shove a one-size-fits-all..."The whole user experience is co-created." -- or rather driven by the brain-power-of-the-masses; and then made unique to each individual customer...'guessin BK's most famous slogan had it right when they said: "Have It Your Way." Source: Fortune Magazine here's a 101-video, with Wikipedia's founder Jimmy Wales: Labels: Business-101, co-create, Media Trends posted by Henry Cruz at 7:24 PM Sunday, May 25, 2008 That Library is closing? POST A COMMENT Here's a novel idea: let's open a chain of store's it'll be like a big coffee shop with a lot of reading material... call it "Barnes and Noble" -- yeah, it seems that plan ain't working out so good. I know, I know...it's supposed to create a welcoming environment; but, if folks can sit all day and read, why would they buy that book afterwards? After some serious hurting, B & N now got a management team to study the "feasibility" of a possible Barnes & Noble-Border's combination...so, they can both go out of business together. Fact is less folks are reading books; the price is another thing, what's the incentive to pay $20 for the new paperbacks? Worse, B & N charging $25 "memberships" so we can save 10% on a book...I'd get that management team working on getting the next generation to slow down and read more, and actually enjoy reading more - (to ensure future customers). Main things effecting the book-slump is technology -- aside from gearing us all to move faster and get-it-now... how 'bout the fact that Barnes and Noble can't hold a candle to something like Amazon.com where you can find almost any single book I can think of, and always at prices cheaper than B&N. More so, since they added the ability to buy used books from other dealers through their website. What I'm reading: Mary Monroe's "In Sheep's Clothing" - okay, the book cover art sucks...but, it has a strong opening, with a likable female protagonist. I'll report back when I'm done reading it...'got any good books of note, drop me a line (leave a comment)...always looking for something new. Resource: CNBC News Labels: Books, In Sheeps Clothing, Mary Monroe, News Trends, novels, what I'm reading posted by Henry Cruz at 1:21 PM Growing up pharming... POST A COMMENT Might be time to say no to a world of "pampers," -- and that endless supply of happiness...or as my Dad would say: Man-up to the real world out there. Talking about a new survey that suggests "15 percent of high school seniors" are using prescription drugs (such as amphetamines, tranquilizers, sedatives, and nonheroin opiates like Vicodin and OxyContin) -- "to get high" -- and those numbers are getting larger, and younger...forming "teen pharming parties." -- to share their pills. Know thy child. "Parents are and continue to be the most influential purveyors of information on topics of great importance," says one expert. "Peers are more influential with what kids wear and where they go." Nothing wrong with reiterating "the values of the household." -- but taking it further and "knowing your kids' friends and their parents" -- and their availability to drugs... yeah, you want to give sense of space and individuality...however, "Parental monitoring is important for kids of all ages" One writer suggests teens are way too coddled - (read article) Offering a trend in the way today's kids are becoming more "insensitive" -- because parents are babying teens, and keeping all negative comments to a minimum...showering them in a non-stop "happy hour." No surprise then, those young adults now expect the same treatment from the real world...a world full of happy-hugs...without taking any real-responsibilities for their own actions. Above happiness, should be a solid foundation on "how-to-handle adversity" - (and how their actions effects others around them). Source: U.S. News, Greenwich Time Labels: drugs, News Trends, teens posted by Henry Cruz at 1:00 PM Saturday, May 24, 2008 Too much butter on that popcorn? POST A COMMENT 'Love adventure films, and while this one -- Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull -- plays right to the audience...as an homage to all those 50's B-movies it's a safe film you can take your kids to...but, like eating Chinese food, I felt hungry for more an hour later. Die-hard fan's of this series will be scratching their heads asking "why" -- they waited 20 years for this...but, new fans will eat up this as a way to kill two hours. Harrison Ford is great, like an old friend you didn't know you'd missed; Shia LaBeouf didn't seem like he fit into this story -- maybe a last minute add on that if added should've been developed. All the Sci-fi aspect -- which to me would have given this bite, was way-to-watered-down for the masses. There's a big fear in big movies that audiences can't handle a meaty Sci-Fi story...so instead they sugar coat it and keep things moving...'don't get me wrong, this movie does move. You will not be bored, just don't expect the earth to move and you'll be fine... Labels: Indiana Jones, movie review, summer blockbusters posted by Henry Cruz at 11:59 AM Wednesday, May 21, 2008 Oral Report: playing with numbers!! POST A COMMENT little doubt -- when talking 'bout the teen-evolution -- Our Kids are growing up faster...A combination of Constant Peer pressure -- exposure to the internet, etc. etc...steps up the end game: the race to get that cherry-popped. One US researcher claims - "Our research shows that this supposed substitution of oral sex for vaginal sex is largely a myth," says this study. Guessin' no substitution for the main course...Once those flood gates open, it's on, banging from all ends...at least in theory. The study found 55 percent of 15- to 19-year-olds have engaged in heterosexual oral sex, 50 percent have engaged in vaginal sex and 11 percent have had anal sex. Both oral and anal sex are much more common among teens who have already had vaginal intercourse than among those who haven't, suggesting that teens initiate a range of sexual activities around the same time, rather than substitute one for another, Source: United Press International Labels: Culture, News Trends, oral sex, teen abstinence, teen sex, virgin posted by Henry Cruz at 7:24 PM Tanning-Lines of Commerce POST A COMMENT When Artist push the limits, it's called a social statement... What about this new Liquor ad -- for "Cabana Cachac" - leaving little to the imagination...except a killer tan-line: That company, in defense, offered: "it has an art feel to it that is very relevant." - hmmm, but will anybody really notice the bottle of Cachac? Source: Women's Wear Daily Labels: Ads, Art versus Commerce, Culture, Media Trends posted by Henry Cruz at 2:45 AM Monday, May 19, 2008 Balance it all out... POST A COMMENT I've been trying to do more reading and writing...'things are good, and generally I'm a feet-on-the-ground-type-of-person...'but, from-time-to-time...I get those brief moments when... Life slips out-of-control...'found a few tips for Well-Balanced Life - (sharing a few here, adding my own three cents) - My solutions are basic, surround myself with good people, challenge the brain - (usually by reading, thinking, listening to various types of music)...other's can be even more basic - Tip: Manage Your Time Better Having effective time management skills will allow you to spend more time with your family and friends....Then here are a few steps to help you improve your skills: Prioritize your time by rating tasks in the order of importance and urgency then direct additional time to activities that are most meaningful to you. Deal with procrastination by using a day planner, breaking large projects into smaller ones, and setting short-term deadlines. Keep a record of how you spend your time, including work, family, and leisure and make adjustments accordingly. Save time by focusing, concentrating, and realizing when it’s time to delegate responsibilities to others. Don’t over or under commit yourself or commit to anything that’s not important to you. * (I'm a big believer in setting realistic goals for time management; but, I am the ultimate procastinator so this is a good one to tackle). - Tip: Evaluate Your Lifestyle You may not realize this but in most instances our behavior and lifestyle choices greatly affect whether or not our life is balanced. To get things into perspective examine your beliefs to reduce conflict between the life you believe you live and the life you really live. This does not bring balance directly to your life, but it can interfere with the way your body deals with stress in edition to other issues. If your perception is different from your reality try to: Balance your personal, work, and family needs according with your other obligations. Get to know yourself by spending some quality time with you. This will help you to find your sense of purpose in life. Don’t drink or smoke and make sure you get enough sleep. These are major stressors to your body and cause you to feel “out of balance.” Yes your doctor was right—you need moderate exercise several times a week and a balanced diet for a physical and mental strength. Think about it … how do you feel after you eat a Big Mac? Enough said! Do something for someone else and expect nothing in return. This will help boost your “feel good” endorphins! * (Wow, doing something for somebody else...weird huh, and "expect nothing in return"...is an very against this new-gen of me, me, me...I'm gonna try that one). - Tip: Change Your Thinking When an event triggers negative thoughts, this may cause you to feel out of balance. Usually when this happens you experience fear, insecurity, anxiety, depression, rage, guilt, and a sense of worthlessness or powerlessness. These are all emotions that trigger your mind and body to disconnect and cause you to react instead of act. When issues such as these come up the best way to get your self back into a safe zone, where you feel you are in control is change your way of thinking and act (not react) on the problem. To change your way of thinking start by: Ridding your mind of any irrational thoughts. This will help you avoid exaggerating the negative thought, anticipating the worst, interpreting an event incorrectly, and will eliminate unnecessary stress. Learning to solve your problems by identifying all aspects of the issue. Then instead of putting it off find ways to deal with it immediately. Changing your communication style so that you communicate in a way that makes your views known without making others feel put down, hostile, or intimidated. Poor communication causes a lot of issues that otherwise would never have surfaced. * (This is harder then it seems, after you reach a certain point in life...stepping outside of your "comfort zone" - talking differently, or clearer is so basic...but, I definitely see where it boosts brain functions up a level). In the meanwhile, speaking of well-balanced, enjoy Pitbulls' Anthem: * (my editorial comments were put here, but the helpful tips came from another website, see Source right below)...got some other good Well-balanced tips for a better life, add them here by leaving your own comments! Source: Divine Caroline Labels: Books, Jennifer Armintrout, new music video, Tips, Well-Balanced Life posted by Henry Cruz at 3:13 AM Sunday, May 18, 2008 Spending "Summer" with Najera.... POST A COMMENT Before things got Ugly - (the ABC' series "Ugly Betty") - there was that INDIE film: "How the Garcia Girls spent their summer," which opened this weekend - (as with smaller films, it took years to make it to the big screen, but it's finally seen the light of day)...so, show some INDIE-luv and plunk down your cash to see it. Big Shout out to the funny Rick Najera, who nails the one-handed butcher 'Jose Luis' in that same film. Najera, a-god-in-the-making among Latino's: "award-winning actor/writer/director/producer, (MADtv, In Living Color) often referred to as the 'Latino Tyler Perry'" - is also pretty funny in that "Ceasar & Chuy" cartoon series: -- Much love, I'll be watching what's next, so should you! Labels: cartoon, ceasar and chuy, indie film, latino watch, Rick NaJera posted by Henry Cruz at 5:20 PM Sympathy for the Demons POST A COMMENT Reading 'bout the legendarily-out-spoken Eszterhas, (known for being one of Hollywood's highest-paid screenwriter) -- ironically, happens to be responsible for some of the worst films to come out of the studio system: Basic Instinct, Showgirls, and Flashdance...) - 'gotta wonder how so many bad films get 'green lighted in Hollywood, I did. I'm cheating by listening to the unabridged book-on-tape of "Hollywood Animal" But, in Eszterhas defense, he's a great conversationalist, and offers an honest and interesting insight into his world: how old School Hollywood really works - or doesn't, in this case -- (since most of ya'll don't bother reading books, Slate Magazine offered up the Books most salacious-Hotpoint's here). Eszterhas, way before his time, his lifes story is a modern "object lesson" in the perils - (and financial benefits) - of the now Brand Name Economy. Creating a brand name in a flawed system -- that runs on fear and greed to get films made: It's easier for studios to drop millions to make bad movies with people they have heard of...then working with untried newbies. I spoke earlier 'bout how emerging media is changing how films will get made -- (click here) It was Eszterhas, who in the 90's, invented the celebrity screenwriter. "He's a run of the mill screenwriter who created a myth that he was an idiosyncratic rebel," offers Entertainment Weekly critic Owen Gleiberman. A self-promoter, that's pure Hollywood - Those contridictions: an exaggerated sense of importance... who also considers himself a great artist. "This is Eszterhas' tragedy and the dark side of his celebrity." Says Slate Magazine. "When he writes sensationalist schlock, he gets the attention he craves. When he writes moving, interesting drama, he doesn't. So schlock it will be." Labels: Books, hollywood animal, Joe Eszterhas, screenwriting posted by Henry Cruz at 1:37 AM Saturday, May 17, 2008 Stern's right to be funny, sorry Dolly... POST A COMMENT "I would never have such vulgar things come out of my mouth. They have done editing or some sort of trickery to make this horrible, horrible thing." Said Ms. Parton. Stern Prevails here: 'Case Closed, move on. Last time I checked this is still the USA, and we have something call the First Amendment...which gives performers the right to talk smack about public figures, in whats obviously a parody here. Dolly's hiss-y-fit does work out as some free PR for Sirius Satellite Radio -- (reminding folks Howard Stern is still out there on the radio...albeit way out in outer space); Had Parton ignored the bit, most people would have probably simply forgotten about it and Stern would have moved on... Actually, if Parton's really so upset, she should hire her own comedy writers and splice up sound bytes from the "Private Parts" audio book...'making her look even more stupid in this case - (if that's even possible). The real damage here is that -- (in this era of 24-hour News programming), folks made this into a news program -- ('gotta respect Fox's art of distraction here, avoiding the real problems in the world): Labels: Dolly Parton, Free Speech, Howard Stern, Sirius Satellite Radio posted by Henry Cruz at 3:23 PM Friday, May 16, 2008 There's a pill for that POST A COMMENT A new Study shows half of Americans are pill-popping their lives away: high blood pressure, depression, heart, obesity, diabetes and cholesterol, sexual dysfunction, whatever your itch... there's a pill out there for you...if not, one is most certainly in the works... Wonder-in 'bout the black man's struggle in white America... 'got ya covered: 'Scientist are working on making skin color -- (or even hair color) -- easier to swallow, -- in a pill. This rise in a easy-fix-medicated-nation has a lot to-do with the relentless pharmaceutical ads, reminding us how better life could be...by popping one down -- (while making them rich)...Any of this sound familar? You've seen those commercials, upbeat music...'sun shinning, dog’s wagging tail...ah, Life is so much better after you "take that blue little pill." - “not” I'm not a doctor, and I know that some of those pills out there improve our lifespan... however, I'm also pretty versed in the laws of the mean streets on New York; and this isn't unlike street-drug-pushers'...'getting us hooked on things we think will make our life better...quick fixes that you might be able to solve by eating the right foods, and exercising. 'ever notice pharmaceutical companies rarely invest those billions of dollars towards finding a real "cure" -- (there's no money in cures)! Like most pushers it's so much better to give that temporary fix -- (to temporarily forget what worries you). Source: CBS News Labels: drugs, medicated nation, pills, prescriptions posted by Henry Cruz at 7:08 PM INDIE-WATCH: Oldest profession gets...younger? POST A COMMENT While it's called "The Babysitter's"... The twist on that tired cliche: "good-girl-gone-tricking" - is that High School baby-sitters, trying to earn a few extra bucks for college...wink, wink....get into a little Risky Business; 'guessing there isn't much in-the-way of a "happy ending" in that film... certainly an interesting premise for a short film...but, c'mon, not sure if it's worth a whole 90 minutues. Source: Vancouver Sun Labels: indie film, trailers posted by Henry Cruz at 1:16 PM Thursday, May 15, 2008 Defending A Million Little Lies POST A COMMENT I've told my fare share of Lies in my lifetime...nothings worse that being called-to the principles office, out in public -- for a smack-down... ('poor 'lil James Frey) -- a pissed-Mommy-Winfrey-wagging her finger at you...'spittle flying out her lips...('Jesus Christ, I hope never to-do anything bad enough to piss off Ms. Oprah)...Saying she felt "duped" - (by "A Million Little Pieces" - which was marketed as a memoir, and...cough, cough, had a few exaggerations of sorts) -- Miss-thang yelled like I never seen her yell, making him confess, and apologize for "lying." But, let's get it together here...'reality check: was the story any less moving because it was marketed as truth-ful-(ish)? Don't we all imbellish stories...what's so bad about being a damn good liar? "Both "Robinson Crusoe" and "Gulliver's Travels" were first marketed as nonfiction accounts, and even included prefaces by their publishers swearing to their veracity." Says the Washington Post. "There's always been a blurry line between fiction and nonfiction, and Frey isn't the first or last writer to conga on that line." - It sounds like to me a bunch of literary elites-out-there should be more pissed at the marketing, and forgot the real thing is to say whether the story was effective... I don't know if the new book is any good...NY Times offers this: "He got another chance. Look what he did with it. He stepped up to the plate and hit one out of the park. No more lying, no more melodrama, still run-on sentences, still funny punctuation, but so what. He became a furiously good storyteller this time." 'glad Frey's writing again...starting fresh with the city of Angels....After all is said and done, shouldn't it be about the story -- (truth or lies) -- and how it impacts us...a good story has the ability to transport us into the writer's world, and effects-us for the better...and in my book, those are good things. here's that video clip of Ms. Oprah's smack-down: Source: Yahoo News Labels: Books, James Frey, Oprah's Book Club posted by Henry Cruz at 3:50 AM Wednesday, May 14, 2008 Bootleg: caring means not sharing POST A COMMENT New York's got a new bill the table that would inflict stiffer "penalties" on "cammers", (those trench-coat bitches recording movies in theaters illegally and then distributing them for money): "This is modern-day organized crime," said legislators. "The wide distribution of pirated films originating from New York costs our state vital economic resources, including thousands of jobs and millions of dollars in tax revenue." As a content provider, I get how piracy effect the little guy (in this case "me")...I know I was on here recently talking about "giving it away" -(but, that's a marketing tool to stake-out your claim on that idea)...'still need ways to put food on the table. It's def' a bigger issue for INDIE filmmakers (with no back-end plan) - all around the world who want to make more films...Not convinced? Here's a funny video to school you on how it effects the little guy: Source: Metro NY Labels: bootlegging, dvd sales, Film, new york city, piracy posted by Henry Cruz at 2:14 PM Tuesday, May 13, 2008 Another forgettable 100-list POST A COMMENT I'm a pseudo-film-buff, but never had a favorite film...I am a student of film - (even went to film school)...I watch a film a day (some days two)...'And as a general rule - (with few exceptions) - I'll never watch the same film twice (once is more than enough, thank you)... so, I'm simply amazed at people who make lists of the top 100 (gotta have a-lot-ta free time on your hands for such non-sense): 1- Casablanca: please, number one? Barely remember what it was about... 2- There will be Blood: haven't seen it yet. 3- ET: The Extra Terrestrial: nice effects, but glad his ass finally went home... 4- Chinatown: Jack was okay, story was full of drama queens... 5- The Shinning: Jack was great...slow pacing, borderline-pretentious most flew right over my head. 6- Vertigo: Okay, this was a popcorn flick... 7- KES: wha...? Never heard of it. 8- Sunset BLVD: never saw it. 9- ETERNAL SUNSHINE OF THE SPOTLESS MIND: It was okay, but very forgettable. 10- THE GODFATHER: Barely remember it...Brando was good in it. Don't get me wrong, I love the act of watching new movies; eat 'em up...good, bad...and especially ugly messes...but, it's mainly a throwaway, none stick to me....Guess, my list...if I wasted time making one...would be what I saw that week - (and didn't fall asleep). Resource: Times UK Labels: Film posted by Henry Cruz at 4:13 PM Monday, May 12, 2008 Saving-what-that-movie-will-do POST A COMMENT As heads-roll, over at the "Speed Racer" camp...The need-to-know-it-all-now-dorks - ('spoiler sites like: aintitcool - that feed off film titles, script-deals, and such...'before one frame is shot, also telling you everything that's in the film) -- saving us all the time of actually ever having to leave the house...gee, thanks. well, those same sites are offering "mixed reviews" to the yet-to-be-released INDY 3 - and Studio Exec's -- have their panties-in-a-bunch; wanting to avoid the "crash and burn" box office of that racer-clunker: "young males who love their action heroes almost as much as their personal computers." I wrote earlier on "How to Direct a blockbuster film" (read it here)...'old-school-ers like Speilberg need-to-remember that old adage: "Keep you enemies close." More than ever before, Consumers (and geeks-alike) now control the Buzz-machines...and in turn have become the gate keepers of the what's the next big thing. Take "Speed Racer," for example...to see where it all went all-wrong; Instead of attracting that R-rated Matrix audience, explains Cinemablend. They should have gone after 12-year-olds boyz. Exec's - "forgot to tell parents that this was a kids’ movie." - Basic marketing-101 in this new era... is to narrow the message to the target viewers...and let them build-up the buzz for you. In this youtube world, viewers not only will make content...they will voice their three cents..the biggest change in the new Hollywood — is the auteur. And mobilizing those people to tell your message to others. In todays world...everyone, and Anyone, can write, direct, produce and market videos without ever having to shake the hand of a Hollywood executive. The next generation of filmmakers, won't need any help from Hollywood. They can, and will, set the tone for what's-next! - and will be the first to tell others what they should do with their time. Check out this cool video primer on Emerging WEB Trends: Labels: Film, News Trends, web trends posted by Henry Cruz at 3:47 AM Sunday, May 11, 2008 Not Naming Names... POST A COMMENT Former MTV exec - just penned a memoir of his life in the hip hop industry as a peter-puffer... 'guess-in to push book sales...gaaak, he claims some of the folks in Hip-Hop are actually Gay. Using fake names, dropping clues -- (to pseudo-Out)-- various butt-pirates getting their Hip-Hop-freak-on-the-D.L. -- (or poss. to avoid those law-suits from high profile celebs if he did name-names). 'The book is not about outing people.' Dean Said. 'I wrote it so that people realise the industry has a gay subculture and we are part of this music...' During Dean's interview on the Wendy Williams Radio show (see audio clip), the opening comments pretty much sum it up: He's a "Nasty tattle-tale..." Wendy says. "I'm almost bored with the topic..." -- over the course of the interview hints are dropped...but, none confirmed... boomp3.com In an excerpt posted online, (it reads like an E. Lynn Harris novel): “...like two lovers in heat. We wanted each other badly. We explored each other’s bodies as we peeled off our clothes and strewn them throughout the room...Preston was ferocious in bed...We kissed tenderly, and then passionately. Our tongues danced in each other’s mouths.” Hmm, Yawn...sounds very Low-Rent- and Trashy...And if you really think about it for a second...I'm not buying a tell-all Hip-Hop book that keeps me guessing... worse, makes the reader do all this extra work to figure out who the bone smugglers. Snoooze, Wake me when actual names are revealed. Labels: Books, Gay Hip-Hop, Hiding in Hip Hop, Terrance Dean, Wendy Williams posted by Henry Cruz at 2:38 AM Saturday, May 10, 2008 Kids gone...ho-tackular? POST A COMMENT Here's my vote for the worlds Scariest Ad in Kids-wear: Shout-out to our friends at Glitterati Gossip for calling out this Hot-Tranny-Mess in kids wear: "Why, Beyonce, Why? We understand that you're ho-tackular, and that's fine with us - believe me, it's more than fine - we like you as tacky and slutty as all get out, we do. We've accepted that it's gotten to the point where we can no longer believe what 12-year olds are wearing in the race to emulate you and people like you, but can you keep your hands off the pre-schoolers at least?" - well said. * speaking of real hotness, check out the Gnarls Barkley "Going On" music video premiere at PrettyBoring.com Labels: Beyonce, Culture, ho-tackular, kids wear posted by Henry Cruz at 4:57 PM Friday, May 09, 2008 Don't drop the Soap...(no really) POST A COMMENT Gotta say up front, we should put all street dealers out of business by legalizing every drug out there - (and then the government could benefit by taxing it)...'Seriously doubt those "pill popping wives" getting legal prescriptions get a much different high then tokes of stuff that grows in the ground....'cept the fact that prescription companies are raking in boatloads of cash medicating Americans. 'Love me: operation sudden fall....or any story that deals with other folk's pain (especially if they are stupid people). Like that Frat Drug - bust...Yeah, gotta admit, I was giggling like a little school girl. At the sheer balls and knuckle-head factor of Frat Boys dealing out in the public....'they gonna love them asses in jail...esp. the one on the right (he'll be somebodies wifey, for sure). This part killed me: Members of "Theta Chi sent out a mass text message to his "faithful customers" stating that he and his "associates" would be unable to sell cocaine while they were in Las Vegas over one weekend, according to the DEA. The text promoted a cocaine "sale" and listed the reduced prices." But, because the dealers in this case were mostly white males, they'll probably end up doing very little time. Then again, in my perfect little world, nobody would do time for such victimless crimes. Labels: drug bust, race relations, rich and poor divide posted by Henry Cruz at 2:23 PM The Mommy Dance POST A COMMENT With Sunday being Mother's Day... I came across this Funny Video (above) and pearls of motherly wisdom (Craig Wilson, USA TODAY): Mr. Wilson says, "I find my thoughts, not surprisingly, turning to toilet seats. The ups and downs of toilet seats, to be exact. Every mother's lament. Especially mothers of boys." Say what? - When did the Ups and downs of the toilet seat become a family Momma-drama? A midnight fall into the toilet is small potatoes compared with monitoring a daughter who changes her name to Monique and starts trolling for "friends" on Facebook. (hence the author determines it's easier to raise boys)...all you mothers of sons out there, relax. It's your day. Have a seat. Happy Mother's Day. (Ditto that, thanks Mommy for putting up with me) Source USA Today Labels: Culture, Mother's Day, Toilet seat posted by Henry Cruz at 12:52 AM Thursday, May 08, 2008 Soap Dropping...and chicks! POST A COMMENT Highlighting what really drives innovation on the Net: 'chicks mean clicks,' said the genius myspace TV exec's - (which was bought by ubber-conservative Fox Network). Using the same ain't broke-yet-trashy formula-that worked for the low-brow-Fox-Network...but, downsized for the short-attention-span-friendly web audience (tiny bite sized clips at 2 mins a pop). This newest pitch sounds like a page from the pile of rejected-scripts from ABC's Ugly Betty: Dirty Soap -(which plans to have babes, a murder mystery, racy double entendres) - The direct to web telenovela --(is a reworked '70s sitcom "Soap" about a dysfunctional family) -- with a PG-13 rating, to stay sponsor-friendly. The one Note from the powers that be at Fox: "more women, preferably wearing as little as possible." Of course, the cast are being paid slave wages of $100 a day, the union minimum, and shooting at their mini-studio in Baja, Mexico. Hate to say it, but, they might have something..."I'll be watching!" Source Business Week Labels: myspace.com videos, News Trends, Web TV posted by Henry Cruz at 4:54 AM Tuesday, May 06, 2008 Tracking Every Mistake POST A COMMENT I'm not a big invasion-of-my-privacy dude - So, I get... Tracking software - (allowing Parents to monitor their kids daily performance) - "Did the homework go from backpack to teacher's hand? It's about accountability for me." Said one parent. "Instead of saying, 'How was school?' I can say, 'I know how the test went. Good job.'" The perks of engaging parents - (like an early warning system) - is to catch the patterns of mess-ups, before total failure. The backlash is more psychological: "If you're overly involved and breathing down your kids' neck...they are not going to share with you what's going on in other aspects of their lives...they'll build big thick walls in other areas you want them to communicate with you about" Also, tightening the grip with I-need-to-know-everything adds more pressure to make everything perfect. Which is good if you want to turn your kid into a neurotic mess. A big part of growing into responsible adults is about allowing kids to make their own mistakes...Ultimately, allowing them to learn from their mistakes. It's about finding that balance; let's at least give them an allusion of independence - (I mean, isn't the allusion of freedom the real American way). Source: NY Times, ABC News Labels: News Trends, Tracking Software posted by Henry Cruz at 1:03 PM Monday, May 05, 2008 Poor Comic Treatment POST A COMMENT Let me say upfront, I'm not into "sociopolitical comic strips" - (got a message, save it, and ..."go cry to Oprah") - that preachy, hit-me-over-the-head-with-a-message - it's just not fun, and rarely funny -- 'least if you're gonna wave a finger at me for all the wrongs in the world, for Gods-sake, at the very least, make me laugh...Bodega Avenue comes close - I smiled a few times, (so, I'll give them a pass for the preachy-undertones in that comic strip). but, I find my sensibilities do align, especially when talking about the "haves" and "have-nots" - if that makes any sense. It's like that motto, kill them with kindness; there's gotta be a "fun" way to make people listen to important issues - like the effects of gentrification in Brooklyn - without sounding like a crybaby...or getting on a soapbox...or, sounding like a liberal asswipe (that hugs...g'aak, trees). How 'bout, kill them with humor? Kill them with entertainment? Like my Momma used to do when she wanted me to take my medicine, she'd wrap it in something I can stomach... There's little doubt, that income for the bottom half of American households are worse than ever...'while income for the top one percent skyrockets - (by 228 percent according to the book, "The Big Squeeze"). The rich get richer, the poor get kicked out...yeah, see what I mean...I'm zoning already (putting my own self to sleep). I got nothing. I'm gonna go out and Make Momma proud, by drowning my sorrows in some happy juice. Source: CBS News, Bodega Avenue Labels: Bodega Avenue, Comic strips online, race relations, rich and poor divide posted by Henry Cruz at 1:18 AM Sunday, May 04, 2008 Facebook D.L. POST A COMMENT Reading about folks bitching about "privacy" on "social networking sites" (such as Facebook). One dude's boss saw embarrassing party pictures on his facebook page: "It was fine when I was in school, but I just started my first job. I can't be out there like that." The new trend now is to assume "online aliases" on Facebook, and MySpace... to "avoid the prying eyes of parents, college recruiters, potential employers and other overly interested strangers." - going on the Down Low with their freaky side... First of all, privacy is very generational -- (younger folk will happily share every pimple), while older folk that grew up in a world without the Internet may be so concerned they wont even post a profile picture of themselves. They don't want people at work knowing they suck toes at night for fun. My questions are -- less the privacy issues -- more the long-term results of kids using Social Networking sites to "hang out" instead of hanging out "in the flesh" - I can't imagine "online socializing" translating to very good people skills. In real life, you meet people. And then meet more people through people you know. I get it, That online statement: “it is all in who you know” is kinda true in getting ahead in life...but, do you really know someone on the the Internet...when all they do is leave you comments like: “showing some mad love” Is that really “networking?” - do we need to know what brand of underwear you wear? Usually ends up being: getting creepy daily "friend requests" from total strangers (who rarely look like that one good picture) -- and people I thought I left behind in high school. New Rule on my facebook: "it’s NOT OK to “friend” me on Facebook unless you're either very very hot or super rich" - now, that's what I call networking. Source: Washington Post Labels: Facebook, privacy, social networking sites posted by Henry Cruz at 4:11 AM Saturday, May 03, 2008 Tom's right move... POST A COMMENT We'll never forget the coach-jumping (there's definately a few skeletons hiding in that closet)...But, a New Improved Tom, back on Oprah (without Gymnastics, in a I'm-not-that-crazy-tour) - showed Oprah his mansion (and funny, we saw no dead bodies buried in his yard) - As two of America's riches celebs sat down to show us, "hey we're really...normal." sounds like somebody took 'ol Tommy-boy on the side and gave him a good-talking-to.... From a pure PR Move, he get's a general thumbs-up by most agreeing that "personal beliefs get in the way of the projects..." said one expert. "And you don't want people to be turned off to you so that they're turned off to your projects." Best Cruis-ism: "Sometimes it's like 'I get it, I get to make movies,'" he said, "...but certain things, you go: "Come on.'" Did he put to rest the rumors of "mental instability" that's been circling through Hollywood? No, but he admitted to "mistakes made." And we all love us a comeback. Source: Yahoo News Labels: Interview, Oprah, Talk Show, Tom Cruise, TV Shows posted by Henry Cruz at 3:24 AM Friday, May 02, 2008 How to direct a blockbuster... POST A COMMENT Another Day, another Iron Man clip to build up the hype-machine. This new one's called "Flight Stabilizer" - which can also be seen with interesting commentary from the films director Jon Favreau, (who has been keeping fans very informed). As Favreau explains (over on Yahoo with his directors commentary on this same clip) -- "This is part of additional footage..." - shot later, after they wrapped. Which, from my own experiences directing, offers the best building blocks to great filmmaking. I believe the key to good directing is a constant checks and balance approach: whereby incorporating "on-set improv," - and "adding layers on set" to scripted ideas (and then again taking a fresh look in post)...and then going back out, after watching the footage, to shoot new stuff; For a multi-layered effect. Labels: directing, Ironman, movies posted by Henry Cruz at 4:41 PM Thursday, May 01, 2008 Getting a Handle on... POST A COMMENT Sex Talkin Trends - today - while singing that song, "Bubbly" --('goes something like, Please take your time where ever you go... ) - which resonates in this conversation, so pull-your-chair-closer - ('fore I break out that 60's-hippy-let's form a circle feel-good-motto "love the one with you're with") - Ah, those were the days. We're Living in a get it now...'bigger-usually-means-better' -world where happiness, and super-sized are blurred.- Leaving behind a-we-need-more-and-longer to feel-good; 'appearing unsatisfied if we don't pull all-nighties -- but, according to this research -- it's actually already under our our covers (well, those of us lucky enough to have somebody sharing that bed). Offering Quality over marathon sessions: "sex doesn't have to last all night long to be good," says Dr. Eric Corty. "Even 45 minutes is unrealistic, for both men and women. Soreness and lubrication become an issue..." - I know some folk willing to work through that pain for bragging-brownie-points of a major marathon session: "Intercourse is not the end-all be-all. Most women don't derive full satisfaction from intercourse. The anatomical reality is, most women don't have as much sensation in the vagina as in the clitoris, which has thousands upon thousands of nerve-endings." "Porn has become the major sex educator for men. It gives us a totally misleading reality of lovemaking," says that article. And in a quick fix, it's alright...helps stimulate creativity when you do get some. Penetrative sex is only one piece of the puzzle, and good sex is less a function of duration -- or stature -- than the quality of a relationship, they offer. "If a couple allows dust to get into the relationship, problems start. Frustration, irritation, annoyance and anger are real, but if they don't deal with it, it will neutralize sexual desire. The mind and body are very linked," Ecuador's solution? -- Takes a modern "respect me" approach in RE-defining women's rights, saying that "the right to sexual enjoyment means ensuring women can make free, responsible and informed decisions about their sex lives." Claiming, I'm not just a vessel for your pleasure, I have a brain too...well, Ladies, that over-thinking sexuality can also backfire-on-you if you go too overboard... This Study says Thinking is bad - (and Dumb-and-dumber-ing and letting loose 'are also essential to rocking those sheets) Smarty-pants looking for book-learning in bed is just not smart; 'cause brainiacs are less likely to be fully-satisfied in bed (Source: MomLogic) - 62% of women who had completed college said they often had problems achieving orgasm. While, only 38% of less educated women said it was hard to hit the big O. For your consumption, in finding a 'happy medium' here are momlogic's top 3 ways to turn off your overthinking brain in the bedroom: - Roleplay: When you pretend to be someone else such as a secretary or French maid, it's easier to tune out nagging thoughts about your to-do list. - Music: When you create a "sexual soundtrack," it can help focus your thoughts on desire instead of distractions. - Fantasize: Thinking about Brad Pitt, George Clooney, or David Beckham can pump up your desire and push less sexy thoughts (laundry, bills, homework) out of your mind. 'Holla at me with your own three cents on this topic Labels: Culture, sex talk posted by Henry Cruz at 3:20 PM     ARCHIVES October 2005 . November 2005 . December 2005 . August 2007 . September 2007 . October 2007 . November 2007 . December 2007 .