- author : Henry Cruz
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Sunday, August 31, 2008
Double-tasking helps boost memory!
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I'm big on single-tasking -- (which is the opposite of multi-tasking).
'Just harder to really excel at something if you're constantly switching up or being distracted by other things.
I'm also big on 'Learning-by-doing: which gives me a chance to reflect on similar past experiences, while creating a new hands-on experience to maximize understanding and get better...'sounds right?
'Turns out, if ya want to boost your memory capacity -- I'm half right.
Welcome Double-tasking: whereby memorizing (or associating) two things -- will boost memory, suggests a new study.
So simplifying things to just two things (and bringing them together) helps in that brain plasticity -- (known as the ability of the brain to strengthen memory attention among other things).
There's an 'area of the brain called the perirhinal cortex that also contributes to forming simple memories, says Science Daily -- (it was previously thought that only the area called the hippo campus was in charge of actually storing all memories).
In layman's term, if you can connect and remember two easy parts, this will boosts your brains ability to better remember similar (and more complex) things.
'Speaking of plasticity here's a great video on Brain Aerobics:
Source: Science DailyLabels: Brain Aerobics, brain-power, memory, plasticity, science 101, Tips
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Sci-Fi's Fringe Benefits?
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Abrams (Lost-dude) has got my nerd-tention with Fox's Fringe; billed as a paranoid, procedural drama (filmed here in Queens NYC), looks like a cross between the twilight zone and The X-Files.
In an interview creator J.J. Abrams talks about the rise in science on the tube:"Popular culture is a mirror, and we are living in a time where every day some kind of shocking or amazing announcement is made. To read today, for instance, that researchers have found a way to destroy HIV or help 80 percent of Alzheimer’s patients, it’s amazing. These types of things are becoming more commonplace. There’s more science in our lives, so there’s more science on TV."
“Fringe” launches on Sept. 9 on Fox, and I'll be checking this one out.
Source: Popular ScienceLabels: Fox Shows, Fringe, J.J. Abrams, science 101, Science Fiction, TV Shows
Friday, August 29, 2008
Abercrummy: 'say no to Ugly?
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'Might need to change that to name to Abercrumbles -- with slumping profits 'sounds like that pricey-preppy-chain might need it's own fashion makeover: "As allowances dwindle and parents fret over their jobs and home values, the 'fresh, clean, simple and optimistic' look of American Apparel's hipster gear is gaining appeal," says the NY Post.
And it just might get uglier...
Speaking of Ugly, 'found this article on the 'Hierarchy of hotness' rules at Abercrombie & Fitch. Which basically says, 'You're either Abercrombie hot – or you're not. Hmmm...
Makes ya wonder if there are enough hot people to wear their clothes; And does this exclusion on the average Joe-buyer affects their bottom line? Opps, I guess it does.
One girl 'was pulled from a sales position on the floor...and shoved back to the stockroom to fold clothes.
In its defense the company says 'it is important to uphold the brand's image and maintain diversity in its stores.' -- "It's a hierarchy of hotness," says the Morning Dallas News.
"There's no real problem to discriminate against 'ugly' people," said one Lawyer. "The problem is when you define beauty to incorporate white, which it essentially does at Abercrombie."
Source: Dallas Morning NewsLabels: Business-101, capitalism, Clothes, College Students, Culture, economy, Fashion
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Cruz Review: Dirty-handed-fun!
Meg Gardiner knocks-it-out-the-park with her American-debut (and here with her sixth novel), The Dirty Secrets Club.POST A COMMENT 
I wrote briefly about this author last week, now After finishing the book, I'll offer ya'll my short review below:
Book Genre: Like getting ya' hands-dirty with suspense, crime, and danger, leading up to nail biting climax? -- Then The Dirty Secrets clubs right up your alley.
Story Blurb: Police call in Forensic psychiatrist Jo Beckett to sort out a crime; 'the clock is ticking 'cause they have 48 hours before somebody else dies.
Page-turner meter, (or the can't-put-it-down factor): On a scale of 1-10, this gets a solid nine. I could almost see a Julia Roberts (or another A-lister) doing twirls in the film version.
What I really liked: I'll focus on two things, but there's lots to like here:
(1) The villains here could've been flat, but the author smartly went out of her way to make it less of a one noter, which looks at the good and bad inside humanity, as opposed to plain 'ol good guy versus bad guys.
(2) Getting back to the suspense level, it's very well plotted. A touch of Alfred Hitchcock mixed with the girls of ABC's short lived legal drama series Women's Murder Club.
What I least liked: If I really have to pull something from between my butt cheeks to Pu-pu the fun...'or something that set me off, I got two things (but, I'm nitpicking here):
(1) We don't meet our protagonist Jo, until chapter three (around page 14th). Which made my brain work harder to sort out whose story it is, for a brighter person this might be okay...for a slow learner like me I don't like so many obstacles
(2) I love those quirky character driven books, but this story's so very very plot by the numbers which never slows down long enough to give me a throw away moment that doesn't tie right into the plot.
I know, I know, everything nowadays is story story story, or cut it out...but, I would like to see more small moments for the sake of character in the next book, and nothing to do with moving the plot. For example, for my money the best part of the USA's Monk is less about the crime, and more about the quirkiness of Monk.
The Dirty Secrets ClubLabels: Critics, Cruz book reviews, The Dirty Secrets Club, what I'm reading
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Real Estates' newest pitch: Easy Commute
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With real estate slumping away, the newest buzz word here in N.J. (and nearby cities) is easy commute, with programs offering -- 'people who work in a particular town to also live there. 'Geared mostly towards single people and young families looking to plant roots in a place as workers and residents -- (the city programs offers kick-backs if you work & live in the same city).
I'm not big on live, play and work smash ups. I do understand that need to get up in the mornings and "go to work." And some distance plays a role here. I myself, live in N.J. and take the train into New York for work. I think living so near work I'd might feel too available.
'I do love the the idea of creating a sense of community (some place you can call your own); but, I don't want to mix work and play.
All for giving back to my community and building it up by supporting local businesses. But, I want a clear seperation from work place and my home.
While there's that perk of a smaller carbon footprint of not having to drive a long way back and forth. Isn't that what trains and buses are for?
I'm curious to know what ya'll think about that (so, leave me a comment on your own commutes)...
Source: NJ.comLabels: environment, fuel economy, green living, New Jersey, News Trends, Oil Prices, Real Estate, Well-Balanced Life
Editing Day One: 'Kitty Talk...
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A few months ago we shot the short film "After Party Babies," with a great INDIE crew, decent actors...but, this week is the first time we actually start cutting. On reflection, making a short movie is a semi-glamorous mix: really long hours, little sleep, and people yelling, that I can only now think of as lots of fun.
It took 9 full days, consisting of 14 really long hour days of on-location prep and shoot time...
Now, months later, it's finally time for editing...'all for what might end up being 15 minutes of film time.
The story for After Party Babies showcases a day in the life of three New Yorkers that all end up at an after hours party. I'll be writing little blurbs here and there on the editing process and eventually (fingers crossed) the various submissions to the film festivals.
Yesterday, on day one. We -- (meaning the editing crew that consists of myself, Valery and Stephanie) -- screened a few minutes of foreign film clips to talk with the editors on style and rhythm.
I told them "I'm really attracted to the european style of editing. That doesn't always tell you everything thats going on."
We then logged footage and set up a blueprint for our editing sessions to come.
The big talk on day-1 was our pets, Valery and Stephanie have a six month old Kitty (that sat in the editing studio with us), I myself have a much fatter and older 20 pound-porker.
Workwise, it felt good to see, and hear the potential of film on the editing bay. The big line of advice given to me -- (and recited yesterday by me to Stephanie and Valery): "The script is written twice, on the page, and rewritten in the editing room."Labels: After Party Babies, Cruz Editing Diaries, Film, Film Festivals, indie film, screenwriting, Short Film
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Hungry for Change?
'We all know there are good foods, and bad things on the list to avoid...'but, it's nice to be reminded. This list is as much for myself -- (as I jump back into working out and eating right), as for anybody trying to eat-the-right things, and improve their overall heath. I just had my shot of wheatgrass, and will have a blueberry smoothie later today...how 'bout you?POST A COMMENT 
Spinach
It may be green and leafy, but spinach is also the ultimate man food. This noted biceps builder is a rich source of plant-based omega-3s and folate, which help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and osteoporosis. Bonus: Folate also increases blood flow to the penis. And spinach is packed with lutein, a compound that fights age-related macular degeneration. Aim for 1 cup fresh spinach or ½ cup cooked per day. SUBSTITUTES: Kale, bok choy, romaine lettuce FIT IT IN: Make your salads with spinach; add spinach to scrambled eggs; drape it over pizza; mix it with marinara sauce and then microwave for an instant dip. PINCH HITTER: Sesame Stir-Braised Kale Heat 4 cloves minced garlic, 1 Tbsp. minced fresh ginger, and 1 tsp. sesame oil in a skillet. Add 2 Tbsp. water and 1 bunch kale (stemmed and chopped). Cover and cook for 3 minutes. Drain. Add 1 tsp. soy sauce and 1 Tbsp. sesame seeds.
Yogurt
Various cultures claim yogurt as their own creation, but the 2,000-year-old food’s health benefits are not disputed: Fermentation spawns hundreds of millions of probiotic organisms that serve as reinforcements to the battalions of beneficial bacteria in your body, which boost the immune system and provide protection against cancer. Not all yogurts are probiotic though, so make sure the label says “live and active cultures.” Aim for 1 cup of the calcium- and protein-rich goop a day. SUBSTITUTES: Kefir, soy yogurt FIT IT IN: Yogurt topped with blueberries, walnuts, flaxseed, and honey is the ultimate breakfast—or dessert. Plain low-fat yogurt is also a perfect base for creamy salad dressings and dips. HOME RUN: Power Smoothie Blend 1 cup low-fat yogurt, 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries, 1 cup carrot juice, and 1 cup fresh baby spinach for a nutrient-rich blast.
Tomatoes
There are two things you need to know about tomatoes: Red are the best, because they’re packed with more of the antioxidant lycopene, and processed tomatoes are just as potent as fresh ones, because it’s easier for the body to absorb the lycopene. Studies show that a diet rich in lycopene can decrease your risk of bladder, lung, prostate, skin, and stomach cancers, as well as reduce the risk of coronary artery disease. Aim for 22 mg of lycopene a day, which is about eight red cherry tomatoes or a glass of tomato juice. SUBSTITUTES: Red watermelon, pink grapefruit, Japanese persimmon, papaya, guava FIT IT IN: Pile on the ketchup and Ragú; guzzle low-sodium V8 and gazpacho; double the amount of tomato paste called for in a recipe. PINCH HITTER: Red and Pink Fruit Bowl Chop 1 small watermelon, 2 grapefruits, 3 persimmons, 1 papaya, and 4 guavas. Garnish with mint.
Carrots
Most red, yellow, or orange vegetables and fruits are spiked with carotenoids—fat-soluble compounds that are associated with a reduction in a wide range of cancers, as well as reduced risk and severity of inflammatory conditions such as asthma and rheumatoid arthritis—but none are as easy to prepare, or have as low a caloric density, as carrots. Aim for ½ cup a day. SUBSTITUTES: Sweet potato, pumpkin, butternut squash, yellow bell pepper, mango FIT IT IN: Raw baby carrots, sliced raw yellow pepper, butternut squash soup, baked sweet potato, pumpkin pie, mango sorbet, carrot cake PINCH HITTER: Baked Sweet Potato Fries Scrub and dry 2 sweet potatoes. Cut each into 8 slices, and then toss with olive oil and paprika. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes at 350°F. Turn and bake for 10 minutes more.
Blueberries
Host to more antioxidants than any other popular fruit, blueberries help prevent cancer, diabetes, and age-related memory changes (hence the nickname “brain berry”). Studies show that blueberries, which are rich in fiber and vitamins A and C, boost cardiovascular health. Aim for 1 cup fresh blueberries a day, or ½ cup frozen or dried. SUBSTITUTES: Açai berries, purple grapes, prunes, raisins, strawberries FIT IT IN: Blueberries maintain most of their power in dried, frozen, or jam form. PINCH HITTER: Açai, an Amazonian berry, has even more antioxidants than the blueberry. Mix 2 Tbsp. of açai powder into OJ or add 2 Tbsp. of açai pulp to cereal, yogurt, or a smoothie.
Black Beans
All beans are good for your heart, but none can boost your brain power like black beans. That’s because they’re full of anthocyanins, antioxidant compounds that have been shown to improve brain function. A daily ½-cup serving provides 8 grams of protein and 7.5 grams of fiber, and is low in calories and free of saturated fat. SUBSTITUTES: Peas, lentils, and pinto, kidney, fava, and lima beans FIT IT IN: Wrap black beans in a breakfast burrito; use both black beans and kidney beans in your chili; puree 1 cup black beans with ¼ cup olive oil and roasted garlic for a healthy dip; add favas, limas, or peas to pasta dishes. HOME RUN: Black Bean and Tomato Salsa Dice 4 tomatoes, 1 onion, 3 cloves garlic, 2 jalapeños, 1 yellow bell pepper, and 1 mango. Mix in a can of black beans and garnish with ½ cup chopped cilantro and the juice of 2 limes.
Walnuts
Richer in heart-healthy omega-3s than salmon, loaded with more anti-inflammatory polyphenols than red wine, and packing half as much muscle-building protein as chicken, the walnut sounds like a Frankenfood, but it grows on trees. Other nuts combine only one or two of these features, not all three. A serving of walnuts—about 1 ounce, or seven nuts—is good anytime, but especially as a postworkout recovery snack. SUBSTITUTES: Almonds, peanuts, pistachios, macadamia nuts, hazelnuts FIT IT IN: Sprinkle on top of salads; dice and add to pancake batter; spoon peanut butter into curries; grind and mix with olive oil to make a marinade for grilled fish or chicken. HOME RUN: Mix 1 cup walnuts with ½ cup dried blueberries and ¼ cup dark chocolate chunks.
Oats
The éminence grise of health food, oats garnered the FDA’s first seal of approval. They are packed with soluble fiber, which lowers the risk of heart disease. Yes, oats are loaded with carbs, but the release of those sugars is slowed by the fiber, and because oats also have 10 grams of protein per ½-cup serving, they deliver steady muscle-building energy. SUBSTITUTES: Quinoa, flaxseed, wild rice FIT IT IN: Eat granolas and cereals that have a fiber content of at least 5 grams per serving. Sprinkle 2 Tbsp. ground flaxseed on cereals, salads, and yogurt. PINCH HITTER: Quinoa Salad Quinoa has twice the protein of most cereals, and fewer carbs. Boil 1 cup quinoa in a mixture of 1 cup pear juice and 1 cup water. Let cool. In a large bowl, toss 2 diced apples, 1 cup fresh blueberries, ½ cup chopped walnuts, and 1 cup plain fat-free yogurt.
Source: Best Life MagazineLabels: Chefs, Diet 101, Healthy Foods, Well-Balanced Life, Whole Foods
Monday, August 25, 2008
Soaring Gas prices bring us long-term cures!
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Look around, notice anything different? -- I sure do.
'People are changing how they go about their daily lives; the Highway Administration says: Americans drove 12 billion less miles in June '08 than last June -- the biggest monthly drop in eight months. An even bigger decline than what we saw in the oil-shock of the 1970s.
'Bus and train usage is up. More people are looking for ways to conserve energy.
'News today shows gas prices have temporally dropped 15 cents a gallon in the past two weeks; but, isn't the better news, at least from where I sit, that sense-of-crisis has forced people to change their behavior.
'Back in the 70's the country made promises to increase gas efficiency, reduce our dependency on foreign oil, and find alternative forms of energy...'sound familiar?
'None of that happened. Today, we get-a-do-over:
'There's every reason to continue to chase alternatives.
'Right now, our oil-dependent economy is shaped by oil's arbitrarily determined price. It's become like a fake-currency. And we're slaves to that black gold standard -- (with most of those profits shipping off to foreign soil).
Obviously, we can't over simplify all the issues. "The soaring cost of energy is causing plenty of pain for Americans, especially at a time when they're being hammered by declining house values and rising food prices.
The pain isn't about to ease, either - 'We haven't yet seen the cost of heating,' warns Business Week. 'Expensive energy is a powerful medicine. It may hurt when taken, but it brings long-term cures for a host of ills.
Focus on what High energy prices is bringing us:
(1) Military-funded researchers have made jet fuel from plants.
(2) Toyota and General Motors are testing plug-in hybrid cars that can run 40 miles on electricity alone.
(3) Companies are building vast expanses of mirrors in the desert to make steam, and thus electricity, from the sun.
(4) There are new systems to control power consumption by homes and businesses from afar and programs to insulate inner-city houses, providing energy savings—and jobs.
(5) All this cuts pollution and slash carbon dioxide emissions, which cause global warming. They reduce the need for a military presence to ensure global commerce in oil.
(6) And they slow the flood of dollars to the Middle East, Russia, and Venezuela, keeping more wealth in the U.S. instead of handing it over to often unfriendly suppliers.
Source: Business WeekLabels: Business-101, capitalism, cars, economy, Elections, emissions, Energy-101, environment, fuel economy, Go-green, green living, mudprint.com, Oil Prices, smaller carbon footprint, Solar Power, Tech
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Cut the fat-guessing
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'Headed back into the gym last week, so I'm also back to sorting threw the latest fitness-trends. Every expert just about agrees that not all of us have the same body type...
In terms of diets, I been kinda hugging the border of the Mediterranean Sea, or what's called the Mediterranean Diet -- (those folks near the Mediterranean sea have a low incident of heart disease, chronic diseases, and cancer, and the highest adult life-expectancy rate, which works for me).
Here's the basic things about fat, the Mediterranean diet does contains 40% of total daily calories from fat. But, there is such a good thing as 'good fats.
Olive oil, a staple of a Mediterranean diet, is a monosaturated fatty acid and counteracts animal fats. This type of fat does not raise blood cholesterol levels and is an excellent source of antioxidants. Monounsaturated fats are, in fact, required for the body in order to function effectively.
Another staples in that diet is fish, which is high in omega-3 fatty acids, something that most people do not get enough of. I also eat lean pork and chicken breast, and rarely do I eat red meat...
'Speaking of fat, I read today about potentially -- pill popping your fat-away (for those really lazy people): 'Scientists discovered a protein that can promote the burning of body fat.
"Mice injected with a protein called BMP7 increased their production of "good" brown fat cells, while keeping their levels of the normal white fat cells constant.
Fat is a crucial part of the body's regulation of metabolism and body temperature. There are two types of fat cell with different functions: the well-known white fat cells, which store energy and contribute to obesity, and lesser-known brown fat cells that burn calories to generate body heat."
"As we learn more about the controls of brown fat development, medical interventions to increase energy expenditure by brown fat inducing agents, such as BMP7, may provide hope to these individuals in losing weight and preventing the metabolic disorders associated with obesity," offers the head researcher. I haven't reached that level of lazyness...yet...but...
'Sounds sorta like the perks of the Mediterranean diet; which instead of counting calories, focuses on food selections. In general, Mediterranean style means eating food slowly and savoring the taste of the food.MEDITERRANEAN DIET-101
*High consumption of olive oil.
*High consumption of fruit, legumes, and vegetables.
*High consumption of grains, pasta, rice, bulgar, couscous, beans, nuts and seeds.
*High consumption of garlic. Garlic lowers your cholesterol level and protects you against cancer.
*Moderate consumption of grilled and steamed fish.
*Low consumption of lean red meat and lean pork.
*Low consumption of eggs and dairy products.
*Low consumption of red wine.
*Regular exercise is an important part of the Mediterranean lifestyle.
- GUIDELINES FOR EATING THE MEDITERRANEAN WAY
Plan your meals a week ahead. Try to include a wide variety of foods in your menu plan.
*Replace butter and other fat with extra virgin olive oil in cooking and baking. Season your olive oil with garlic and/or herbs and spices.
*Instead of dessert, eat a plateful of fresh fruit.
*Eat lots of whole grains and beans.
*Replace white potatoes with sweet potatoes.
*Eat meals full of color! Add a variety of vegetables by eating salads and soups.
*Limit processed foods.
*Add fish to your diet twice a week and cut down on red meat.
*Drink lots of water, never sugar-sweetened sodas.
Source: Guardian U.K.Labels: drugs, Exercise, Healthy Foods, HungryForChange.com, News Trends, Obesity, Well-Balanced Life, Whole Foods
Friday, August 22, 2008
The world keeps getting...Greener
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Some trends are just good all around. Like if everybody decided to end extreme poverty, what would be the down side? So, because I'm starting to tip-toe towards a lighter carbon footprint, I've decided to pass along a few tips that came accross my desk.
Here are a few 411-links to get ya thumbs-greener:
- Want to Be a Green Mommy?
- There's Oil in that cartridge!
- Jay Leno's smart car advice
- Millions of Gallons of Bio Diesel from Algae?
- Big Apple gets a windfarm?
- Eco-Swapping: hand-me-down Parties?
- Hydrogen Power...from Water?
- Eco-Clubs powered by Sweat equity
** (Note, these are from my sister eco site, Muprint.com, but ya'll can add your own Green friendly links by leaving me a comment - no spam, just helpful info please).Labels: Business-101, Energy-101, fuel economy, green living, Media Trends, mudprint.com, Well-Balanced Life
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Dark-Who...'make it more Kid Friendly!
There's a major power struggle on the set of Wolverine between the director Gavin Hood and the studio heads...'And, I can't understand why this isn't front page news all over the place, but, maybe I nerdgress.POST A COMMENT 
Tom Rothman, (a picture of evil?), 20th Century Fox CEO...
Study that face! 'cause this Rothman guy is the douche ruining our X-Men movies!! -- by taking the Dark out, and wanting to make it more Kid-friendly.
"If there's one important lesson that can be drawn from the blockbuster performance of Warner Bros.' The Dark Knight, it's that audiences aren't afraid of a comic-book movie that takes a walk on the dark, grim side," offers Defamer.com.
"However, the same can't necessarily be said for Fox topper Tom Rothman..." -- who's widely known for being a very willful and meticulous micro-manager.
"Despite the fact that the gritty, Hugh Jackman-topped film was met with a giddy response at this year's Comic-Con, Jeff Wells says that Rothman is pressuring director Gavin Hood to make the movie more kid-friendly..."
"Perhaps Rothman has taken his fan letter from Steven Spielberg too much to heart, but a child-friendly Wolverine feels less "X" and more "Y?" Does this mean his bristly greeting of "Bub" will be redubbed "Buddy," or his iconic cigar will be replaced with a pixie stick? C'mon, Tom: Wolvie isn't meant for buoyant musical numbers..."
WTF? 'Cue the broadway tunes...or pink outfits?'I have to say (and I know I'm showing my Geeky side), if there's anytime true comic book fans should use the power of the internet for the forces of good...'here it is! Pass this story around...let them know we can do dark just fine.
Please, please, please, save Wolverine from being turned into another Disneyfied-toe-tapper.
Source: Defamer.comLabels: Comic Books, Film, trailers, unjustified verdict, Wolverine
Cho Show not a total train wreck...
Usually by the time you get to star in a VH1 reality show means it's over -- (cue clips of Whitney and Bobby, or Anna Nicole Smith)...POST A COMMENT
But not so for Margaret Chos' celeb-reality show; there are at least two good things that make it watchable:
(1) Margaret, for her quick line liners...
(2) and her parents. The rest of it, well, that's why God gave us the fast forward button.
The opener premieres Thursday night at 11, on VH1 but, if you can't wait, they loaded the full first episode at their website...'here's the last clip, and will wanna use that fast forward to the funny part, when Margaret finally hits the stage:Labels: Celebs exposed, Critics, Cruz Reviews, Margaret Cho, Reality Shows, TV Shows, VH1
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
We take the junky moments out...
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I jump back into the editing suite next week, for my tiny short film "After Party Babies," and I'm actually excited because I'll have on my editors hat (and a fresh perspective on the footage we shot).
In his new interview, Woody Allen (72), talks about how "unpleasant" the experience of cutting a movie together can be:Woody Allen: 'When you come in here, as I just did that with this movie I shot with Larry David—the first time you put all the stuff together and you show it on the screen, you’re hoping that you’re going to get a feeling of, “God, this is much better than I thought!” And invariably, it’s not that feeling. Invariably, it’s, “Oh, God, what did I do? I’ve disappointed everybody. I’ve made a fool of myself. It’s awful.”
Sometimes you’re right—it never gets any better. But sometimes you’re wrong—we take the junky moments out, and the good moments happen much faster. We take a little scene from here and put it over there, and suddenly it shifts the whole feeling of the film. Very often, we come back in here the second time and it looks much better, and then by the third or fourth time, it starts to really take shape. With this Spanish movie, it looked fairly good the first time I saw it. That was true of Match Point as well.
'There’s a definite difference between the person who makes the film and the people who see it, in terms of perception. What appears to me sometimes to be tedious, slow and not worth anything, for some inexplicable reason will delight an audience. Conversely, sometimes I sit in here and think, “This is brilliant, this is so funny, these scenes are so great,” and then I show it to audiences and they don’t get anything out of it. They disagree with me completely. And over the passage of time, one of us turns out to be right. I will say that, usually, the audience is right. Once in a while, you get a film that the audience is wrong about, but that’s a rarity.'(Village Voice)
Thanks Woody. 'Very honest perception of the film making process. At the end of the day, no matter how much blood, sweat and tears (and money) -- goes into making a film...
'The behind the scenes drama quickly fades into the background when you put it together;
The audience will be watching and experiencing it in a whole new way, and you can only hope connecting with it in the way you intended...'and in editing you need to be that fresh pair of eyes, to get a good grip on what plays, and take out the parts that just don't work.
Source: Village VoiceLabels: After Party Babies, Editing, Film, Woody Allen
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Should we Shame-out-the-Garbage?
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'Some guilt is good for you. Like the Ten Commandments, engraved on stone tablets, passed along to Moses to offer to his flock of 'guilt-filled-hearts...
'reminding them each day of the divine law, and their 'sustainable-eco-duties:
(1)'Thou shalt not waste, when you should recycle
(2)'Thou shalt not use Styrofoam, because it'll never disintegrate...
(3) 'Thou shalt be mindful about your daily impact on the environment.
(4) 'Thou shalt religiously separate your cans, bottles and newspapers in those blue recycling bins
'So these will be the commandments of the green crusaders -- (a kick ass costume is optional -- because after all, being green should still be fun).
If the Batman taught us anything with his fancy moves; 'Fear is a strong motivator.
It's even spilling into the workforce, also looking for more of that street cred in environmental responsibility, adapting -- "Less packaging. More beautiful" -- green mantra...
Not only makes for smart $$ business, it's yet another way to outdo the competition by saying you're much more green and ethical to our planet. 'Showing up other companies, by showing your company's blood runs extra green.
One quick fix, suggested in Business Week, that'll give your workplace an instant membership in that in "go green" crowd:
Throw down tiny wastebaskets for non recyclable trash; making workers empty them into a central dumpster...'makes them think twice before tossing out trash.
"At California’s Sonoma State University, recycling rose by 55%...'as people put cans and bottles in their proper place instead of in newly installed five-inch-tall bins."
How 'bout adding a special sign: 'Would Jesus Christ Refuse To Recycle? - 'I smell an Ad Campaign (that could replace those I honk for Jesus bumper stickers).
Check out this video showing that shame strategy at work (in a green hotel):
Source: Business WeekLabels: An Inconvenient Truth, brain-power, Business-101, economy, Energy-101, environment, Go-green, green living, mudprint.com, Trash, Trends
I was reminded that I could (and should) use this space to talk more about my own life...POST A COMMENT
'Yawn.
I know, I feel your pain. I know so many Chatty-Kathy-motor-mouth-types that just scream: 'me, me, me...'in my head, I'm writing here about topics that actually touch me. So, there might be a greater worldly court of opinion I'm appealing to -- (or not). That's not really for me to decide.
'Anyhoo, can't get these Chatty-Kathy's to stop talking about themselves -- ('most of the time it ain't that interesting). Hence, the hesitation to use this space as only a me-me-me-and-more-me-soapbox (I'll drop in parts of me here and there when something is really bugging me):
Here's such a humble snap shot of my world; 'and I gotta say it, this past week has been a doggie filled world...
I live in the downtown arts district (N.J.), in a converted loft that's smack in the center of two universities, 'got a huge-ass stadium a few blocks away, City Hall's about six blocks away...'and mostly municipal offices make up my stomping grounds...
'call me the ultimate city dweller.
It works, if you can get pass all the traffic sounds; I do, with the help of those electronic wall-of-sound machines when I sleep at night.
My summer was going fine, until the doody started to pile up. It was the hot-topic with my roommate...'went something like:
Roommate: "Did you see that big pile of Doody, near the tree?"
Henry: "How could you miss that mountain? I did a Miss Bucket move (pronounced Boo-kay), so everyone could see me."
I performed my re-enactment of me cleaning up our two dogs-daily-doo-doo, using really wide gestures so Granny would see me from three blocks away -- (like in that BBC show 'Keeping up Appearances').
The recent pile-ups are mostly from the new tenants that aren't a bit worried about their dogs carbon do-do prints.
'Why am I the only one cleaning up after my dog? -- I quietly fumed.
'til I woke up one day last week with a brainstorm: one man can make a difference, says I. After a trip to Kinkos I went out at night commando style to wall paper my polite "Please Clean after your Dog" signs ('even has a cool picture to drive that point home). I can't say for sure, but I do think it's made a difference.
Speaking of topics that touch me, I wrote here that I just wrapped a screenwriting workshop -- I might look to join a writing group this fall -- or take yet another writing course.
Here in this clip, screenwriter Billy Ray talks about that same need to be personally touched. He offers this advice:
'a very simple litmus test about what you should be writing, and what you shouldn't be writing is never, ever write a movie that you yourself would not pay to see.Labels: After Party Babies, feature screeplay, Free Writing Fiction, screenwriting, screenwriting group
Monday, August 18, 2008
When Comic-Book-Geeks attack...'Frank Miller?
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Mainstream success can be a funny thing. I can't think of anyone that exudes more comics-cred than Frank Miller -- ('dude was the reason they put the Dark back into those Dark Knight Films...'but, I can go back even further to his run on Daredevil...'isn't that's when comic books really grew up?)
In this article, aptly titled: "10 Comics Creators We Wish Would Make Movies Instead Of Frank Miller" -- it's clear the geek-force has shifted -- (and no one bothered to text me about it).
Sure, Millers now gained wide critical penetration -- 'after getting his feet wet with a few money-making films (300, Sin City)...'that doesn't mean other comic book creators can't also make films.
But, listen to this rant: "We used to love Frank Miller, before his comics work turned into schlocky self-parody. But even in his prime, Frank wouldn't be our first choice to direct a semi-major Hollywood movie, so we're sad that Miller's getting his shot at the brass ring with The Spirit."
Really, 'we used' to love Frank Miller?? I guess having everyone know who you are changes the game? -- But, does it really change the mad-skills of a Miller?
As one commenter says, "my wife even knows who he is -- (and she's a comic book null). Okay, my Grandmother now knows the name Frank Miller...and what??
From the amount of negative comments you'd think Miller had dead babies buried in his den. Well, maybe Miller could really lose those funny looking hats.
But, I'm otherwise cool with his success...'why player-hate someone winning games for a bigger team? 'Let's all do the batman dance to his success -- ('maybe not the Batman dance).
I get it, 'mainstream-Hollywood is like winning the lotto...'
'it has a touch of that elite all-boy's club...
'But, look at it this way, a movie based on a comic book doesn't automatically mean it will work on the big screen; creating a great comic book is a much different beast.
Let's face it, some comic book stories will never strike a cord with the masses...'some stories just work better as smaller underground gems.
I looked at the list of 10 comic book creators that would work 'better' as filmmakers...I hope deep down it's not just hate, as much as the fact that Miller is currently getting all the "Hollywood love" leaving these other great creators feeling ignored.
Ultimately, Millers success opens the door for other talented folks that actually dare to pick up a camera.
Source: io9.comLabels: Comic Books, Frank Miller, The Spirit
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Can anyone be a Best-selling Author?
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Having hit page 165 of Meg Gardiners "The Dirty Secrets Club" -- (that book Stephen King hailed as "The next suspense superstar") -- 'meant it was high time I took a few minutes to Google-her-ass;
If only to investigate how a person gets to be this talented. I mean, do good writers just wake up with a silver-pen in their mouth, or what?
I'll offer my full review here when I'm done reading it, but if you haven't heard about it, the book has been billed as a -- "thriller with a psychological bent."
If y'all are feeling a bit crazy today, go join my very-own cyber-Oprahish-like-book-club, and pick up a copy, and we'll read along together...I'll hopefully be done reading it by next week -- (but I'm always curious what others think).
On Gardiners personal blog she humbly answered such a reader-submitted question: "can writing be taught?" -- I'll post a few excerpts below, but I really think that reader was fishing for -- 'a few tricks of the trade...
or
"Hey, can a average slob like me actually become a best selling author?"
Here's some of what she said: "The essentials of good writing can be learned. You can teach people how to edit, how to structure an argument, how to use evidence to prove a point."
"You can train the eye and the ear to recognize cliche. You can push students to clarify sloppy thinking. You can show them how to write with strong, vivid nouns and verbs. In teaching nonfiction, you can explain how to build an argument so that it persuades the reader. You can show students how to illustrate an article or a legal brief with a single, telling detail."
"Raw talent can be cultivated. And it should be."
"You can open people’s eyes to the essentials of great writing. But you can’t give people a gift. You can’t teach genius."
Gardiners big writing advice for newbies is to "Create sympathetic characters and put them in jeopardy. That's advice crimewriter Leonard Tourney gave me, and it's stuck. Also, grow a thick skin. Learn how to take criticism and grow from it."
But, she's quick to add that you also need to have a good story to tell as well: "If my books aren't entertaining, I'm not doing my job," Gardiner adds.
Because this is the world wide web -- (where every average Joe is now a critic) -- I of course felt compelled to leave my own stream of rambles in her comments section of her blog that went like this:
Henry Cruz comment - "As someone with a share of fiction workshops sticking out of my side pocket; I can say that I learned more about writing when it was my turn to offer critique of other writers in my group. Maybe it was something about being “on” — or accessing dusty brain cells and allowing a part of me to “live that moment” — listen better? jump better? and dare I say, sound halfway smarter than my usual fumbling."
"I just finished a scriptwriting workshop and the big advice from the teacher was to say “steal often” — (or borrow a lot), until something original clicks inside…so, what I’m saying — (or asking)…or both, being able to access my brain in various ways I find helps…or maybe I’m just dreaming it all….whaddya think?" -- Hmm, pure caffeine brilliance?...or another crazy-man's babble that you might amuse with a stiff smile.
What I really meant to say I think was actually better said by one of the masters:
"I think self knowledge is one of the beautiful and marvelous creative aids that we have -- know thy self," offers creator / writer of the Twilight Zone, Mr. Rod Serling.
"Because you can look at yourself in the mirror and get a whole list of all the human attributes and human frailties that are extent. Whatever is wrong with you is conceivably wrong with most of your peers."
"Whatever is decent and good and fine and caring that is a part of your nature is also the meritorious aspects of your peers..." Serling goes onto add that you should test out how things sound: "Just a piece of dialogue -- would I say it? -- and if I heard it would I believe it."
I'd sum up the basic rules to becoming the next best-selling author like this:
1. You do need all those technical tools to be able to throw it down correctly on a page. The basic "nuts and bolts mechanics" of writing. Your basic -- "how to structure a story." How to go about -- "revising and editing," -- are all key.
'And some of that you can grasp by reading, and studying the works of other great writers.
2. But like Gardiner suggests -- doesn't it really start with creating believable, interesting characters that connect with readers; A really compelling voice on the page -- that doesn't give away all the goodies ('sorta to keep 'em guessing and turning the page).
For my money, the best book out there on the craft is Stephen Kings' On Writing. Kings book is full of advice, some of it common sense, and like Gardiner he talks about the need for a...
writer's toolbox: "Common tools on the top shelf (vocabulary and grammar), elements of grammar and style on the second level, along with an understanding of the paragraph as the basic element in fiction..."
"If you want to be a writer," King says, "you must do two things above all others: read a lot and write a lot." King calls reading the creative center of a writer's life. He says you gotta -- "read in small sips as well as long drinks - in waiting rooms, in line at the theater, in the checkout line at the grocery store, on the treadmill at the gym and in the john."
So, before we all collectively run out to the john, let's listen as Serling drops other pearls-of-wisdom:
Source: Meg Gardiner's BlogLabels: Can Writing be Taught, Meg Gardiner, Rod Serling, screenwriting, screenwriting group, stephen king, The Dirty Secrets Club, Twilight Zone, what I'm reading
Saturday, August 16, 2008
It's the teachers, stupid!
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As a survivor the public school system -- including a bout at one of the most dangerous High Schools in the Bronx - (NYC)...
'I can testify that the biggest problem at inner-city schools -- (aside from threat-to-life issues) is what you don't see -- all the dropouts....
but, for those that stick it out, it does become so much about the quality of the teachers; which is why I think "Teach for America" might have something.
Let's face it, there is no easy band-aid fix; as this Newsweek article points out: "the American system of education is broken..." -- poor kids without money are basically screwed.
Repairing it, begins with better teachers: "The single most important factor in student achievement is the quality of the teacher. And yet, we have no effective system to attract, train, retain and promote high-caliber candidates for our schools. Today's teachers score in the lowest quartile of college grads and too many of the schools that train them are diploma mills."
- Teach for America basics: The two-year program "recruits high-performing college grads to teach in low-performing public schools." And while the teachers are paid the same as other new teachers, Teach for America actually helps to pay off the participants student loans.
More than that is how this program has raised the stakes by sparking a join-the-cool-club-mentality among recent grads: "Among the candidates: 11 percent of seniors at Yale, 10 percent at Georgetown and 9 percent at Harvard. This summer, 3,700 corps members who were carefully culled for their leadership skills through TFA's data-driven, envy-of-Wall Street selection model underwent an intensive, five-week crash course in teaching."
I know for myself, the difference between ending up locked up in jail or finishing college -- came down to a few memorable teachers showing me some of life's possibilities.
Source: NewsweekLabels: College Students, economy, Education, Poverty Divide, race relations, Teach for America
Friday, August 15, 2008
Best of...'the Stern Effect
Hey Oprah, meet our main man Howard Stern...POST A COMMENT 
THE business side of that Sirius XM satellite merger has subscribers like me perched...especially with a few analyst trashing the future of Satellite radio.
I've been a big Stern fan for years, and of course have my Sirius Walkman radio near my treadmill...
I've also been following the possibilities that lay ahead, and know that teaming up with other companies could make satellite a viable business. I read about the iPhone app. that sounds a win-win for business Apple and Sirius XM...
STERN EFFECT: Another idea that could boost revenues is the “BEST OF” option; where for $4, XM's 9.5 million subscribers -- could 'opt in for all of Sirius' past “BEST OF” programming...which basically brings the complete history of BaBa-Booey to all...
I'll be watching how things progress.
Source: istockanalyst.comLabels: Business-101, Howard Stern, Sirius Satellite Radio
Ads: Going for the online Gold!
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Those airbrushed pics of Eva Mendes doing nude twirls on a bed...might be worth a thousand words...
But, that paper-trails drying up faster than expected -- as 2008 marks -- "the first time in U.S. history" television will get more advertising dollars than newspapers...
All this comes while Internet Ads are lined up to "take over as the leading generator of advertising revenue..."
"Internet advertising will boast an 18.9% compound annual growth rate from 2007-12, compared with 2.6% for broadcast TV and negative 2.8% for newspapers." -- (according to VSS Data)
TV's boost from the Olympics and upcoming presidential race has allowed it to -- "spike to $51 billion while newspapers sink to $46.8 billion..."
"And once newspapers relinquish their lead, they aren't expected to regain it any time soon."
But, NBCOlympics.com live multimedia has inadvertently set up onlines future's Ad model, especially as more and more Television viewers shift online.
"Viewers can watch up to 20 feeds simultaneously. This in contrast to the 2004 and 2006 Olympics when NBC had little to offer in the way of online video..."
With Television Ad-revenue expected to sink again in 2009, that leaves it wide-open for the Internet to take the gold sooner than expected.
I'm the first to say we should all welcome the pending-death of print media; I mean think of all the trees we'll be saving.
Speaking of death...'check out these Olypi-AD-misses:
Source: Hollywood ReporterLabels: Ads, Beijing, Business-101, China, economy, Media Trends, News Trends, Print publication, TV Shows
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Will old reliable save a fallen Gap?
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You'd think these were happy-times at the Gap...
Patrick Robinson -- that dude charged with reviving the ailing brand -- gets a shot this fall...up-to-bat, as the chief designer -- they'll either call it a comeback...
"Even if," as Business Week points out -- "most of its target customers don't know it yet"
or
Robinson's will fail so miserably, he'll -- "single-handedly sink it..." -- Eh, so not too much pressure on one person.
Formerly of Armani, Perry Ellis, and most recently at Paco Rabanne, Robinson says he'll add a modern spin on the classics...'that could restore the respect Gap once had...
"signaling confidence in the new designer." The Gap, which like most clothing companies had cut back on print ads, is gonna be pumping some major cash touting Mr. Robinsons' arrival this fall.
Those in-the-fashion-know say the addition of Robinson could be "the best move Gap has made in years...'it will keep J. Crew on their toes."
Robinson was quick to point out the companies recent mis-steps: "It was targeting too young a customer...stocking poor quality clothes...imitating H&M, and Zara..."
"It wasn't being Gap," says Robinson. Adding it needs to get off what he calls -- "the trend treadmill and revive the signature classics that he wore growing up in California."
In full disclosure -- other than the occasional "you go girlfriend" -- I'm no clothes horse or fashionista...but, I do live for the emotional drama -- 'and the irony that a fashion guy might be the one to save a fallen company -- by simply going back to basics...
'With the Luxury market in a steep decline -- who knows -- could be "old reliable's moment." -- I'll have the popcorn ready to watch this one play out.
Source: Business WeekLabels: Brands, Business-101, Clothes, Gap Inc., Patrick Robinson, Retailer
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Melting Pot, USA
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Watching the Olympics coverage started a conversation on how diversity benefits the U.S. teams.
I grew up in New York City...'so, I might be a bit spoiled by that melting pot theme. But, join me in being the forever-optimist and seeing the good in this New-York-microcosm trickling down-south.
And how this will be even better for the Team USA of the future -- 'cause sorta like the six million dollar man, we'll get the best of all worlds in one place...and kick some major butt -- (seems to work just fine here in New York).
"The white population, I wouldn't say is fading into the background, but it is becoming the older, less fertile part of the population," offers CBS news.
Consider this: 10 percent of Americas population still control 70 percent of our countries wealth...it's pretty clear who really wears the clout in this country -- (the rest of us are just here to clean up the mess...I mean look at who they shipped out to Iraq; 'don't think too many rich folks ever even heard the words "basic training").
"Whites still make up 66 percent of the population. But their numbers have grown only two percent since 2000, compared to eight percent for blacks, 29 percent for Hispanics and 26 percent for Asians."
In that same report it was suggested that such change in a community could have a "train wreck" effect -- really, I couldn't disagree more.
Worse case scenario: we might all need to learn to sing the star spangled banner in English, Spanish, Chinese, and maybe French -- (Gaaak, well hopefully not french)...
'what's the big-whoop?
Source: CBS NewsLabels: Business-101, latino watch, News Trends, Olympics, Poverty Divide, race relations, rich and poor divide
