Season three of Syfy’s hit series Being Human premieres on January 14, 2013 at 9pm, promising more thrills for three of our fav supernatural creatures – Aidan the vampire (Sam Witwer), Sally the witch (Meaghan Rath), and Josh the werewolf (Sam Huntington). And to get us ready for the new season, the network’s offered this sneak peek at season 3’s first episode, “It’s a Shame About Ray.”
The Plot: The new season of Being Human picks up 15 months after the events of last season’s riveting finale which ended with Aidan being buried alive as punishment from vampire leader Mother, Sally, lost in a state of limbo, and Josh’s plot to kill Ray, his werewolf “maker” — which instead endangered Nora.
The third season features a stellar lineup of new and returning guest stars, including Mark Pellegrino as Aidan’s vampire mentor Bishop; Amy Aquino as Donna, a witch whose supernatural spells are sought out to help find Sally; Xander Berkeley as Liam, father of purebred werewolf twins who is intent on locating his missing children Bobby Campo as Max, a young mortician who develops a connection with Sally; and Kyle Schmid returning as Aidan’s vampire protégé and ”son,” Henry.
GIOVANNI RIBISI as Officer Conwell Keeler, JOSH BROLIN as Sgt. John O'Mara, RYAN GOSLING as Sgt. Jerry Wooters, ANTHONY MACKIE as Officer Coleman Harris, MICHAEL PEÑA as Officer Navidad Ramirez and ROBERT PATRICK as Officer Max Kennard in Warner Bros. Pictures' and Village Roadshow Pictures' drama "GANGSTER SQUAD," a Warner Bros. Pictures release - Photo by Wilson Webb
2013 is here and the first screening of the year I attended was Gangster Squad, a film about cops and criminals in 1949, “inspired by true events.” Right away, I knew I was in for some trouble, and after all was said and done, 2013 isn’t starting how I’d like it to (this year’s Oscar nominations don’t help either).
On paper, this film should be a slam dunk. Starring Josh Brolin, Ryan Gosling, Sean Penn, Anthony Mackie, Giovanni Ribisi, Emma Stone, Robert Patrick, and Michael Peña, it’s loaded with talent. There was a great deal of buzz about it last summer, prior to the tragic shooting in Colorado which forced the film to be pushed back and prompted the removal of a scene involving characters firing into the audience of a movie theater. It’s easy to say that having to rewrite elements and re-stage a pivotal scene is to blame, but the truth is, there’s just not a lot to really like in the movie.
The main character (Brolin) is described in the movie as a Bull in a China Shop, but that’s not necessarily a good thing because he’s completely one-dimensional; devoid of any nuance to make him interesting. And it doesn’t stop with him. Every character comes off without any shade of gray or straight out of some stock screenwriting handbook.
Emma Stone’s character is completely useless. It’s as if they were imagining what the poster should look like and thought it needed a pin-up girl. Penn got a lot of time in the make-up chair and probably had fun playing a gangster, but his character was almost as one-sided as Brolin and lacked the charisma that would make the villainous deeds stand out even more. Gosling comes closest to providing life to the picture, but it was hard to get comfortable with the high-pitched accent he adopted, and the calm, silent delivery he used was so reminiscent of his exquisite performance in Drive that I kept wishing I was watching that instead.
Director Ruben Fleischer doesn’t do much to help things either. After seeing his feature film debut, Zombieland, I was hoping this was a new director with promise. Then 30 Minutes or Less came out and stunk up the cinema. This was going to be the tiebreaker, as I think you need at least three examples from a filmmaker to determine if they’ve really got the goods. Sorry, Ruben. It doesn’t look like you do.
The movie opens to some strong violence, which is appropriate for the characters and the setting. But shortly afterward, it veers into rather blasé gun battles and the odd fistfight, none of which are filmed all that interestingly. It’s more violent than the average film these days but falls in line with the actioners of the mid-90s and fails to do anything all that new after the 10 or 15-minute mark. This is made doubly worse towards the end as far too few characters end up receiving the kind of horrific end the audiences have been built to believe will be coming.
Pretty much every actor in the film deserves better and so will patrons who fork over their hard-earned cash. A script rewrite and a new director could have done so much more with the wealth of acting talent assembled; perhaps I would have been better served imagining what a good movie with all of these actors would have looked like. Sadly, the reality is a ho-hum gangster flick that’s not worth much more than a lazy afternoon on free cable.
GRADE: C-
Gangster Squad hits theaters on January 11, 2013 and is rated R for strong violence and language.
The cast of Survivor: Caramoan - Fans vs Favorites - Photo Courtesy of CBS
Can you believe Survivor is heading into its 26th season? No? Neither can I, but the upcoming Survivor: Caramoan – Fans vs Favorites season is in fact #26. CBS is premiering this upcoming season on February 13, 2013 at 8pm (a two-hour show), bringing back the pairing of fans versus Survivor favorites.
Per CBS, 10 “ultimate” fans of the series will be competing to outwit, outplay, and outlast 10 Survivor veterans. The Bikal Tribe (former Survivor contestants) will be going up against The Gota Tribe, made up of fans chosen for their obsession and knowledge of the game.
Survivor: Caramoan – The Fans
Laura Alexander (23)
Tribe Designation: Gota
Current Residence: Washington, D.C.
Occupation: Administrative Officer
Personal Claim to Fame: I am most proud of climbing Mt. Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa.
Inspiration in Life: My mother, for her strength and her endless support.
Hobbies: Traveling, jigsaw puzzles and dancing.
Pet Peeves: Ignorance, intolerance and arrogance.
Three Words to Describe You: Ambitious, sarcastic and down to earth.
If You Could Have Three Things on The Island, What Would They Be and Why? I’m not very sentimental.
SURVIVOR Contestant You Are Most Like: I relate to Brenda Lowe, Parvati Shallow and Jenna Morasca, because they were strategically strong women.
Reason for Being on SURVIVOR: I’m completely obsessed with SURVIVOR, and I want to win a million dollars.
Why You Think You’ll “Survive” SURVIVOR: I think I will kick butt on the challenge puzzles. I might be small but I have a lot of fire in me. I’ll also work hard around camp – you won’t find me picking my sorority sister’s armpit hair.
Why You Think You Will Be the Sole SURVIVOR: I know who I am, I know what I want and I know that I’m more than capable of getting it. I’m smart and I’ll utilize everyone else’s weaknesses. I know what works and what doesn’t work on Survivor.
Sherri Biethman (41)
Tribe Designation: Gota
Current Residence: Boise, Idaho
Occupation: Fast Food Franchisee
Personal Claim to Fame: Finding the right diagnosis for my autistic son Colby.
Inspiration in Life: My parents. My father ran his own business and taught me to work hard and make my own destiny. My mother taught me unconditional love and how to always be there for my children.
Hobbies: Shopping, pilates and cycling.
Pet Peeves: Liars, clutter and anything dirty.
Three Words to Describe You: Lovable, sexy and unstoppable.
If You Could Have Three Things on The Island, What Would They Be and Why? Toothbrush, coffee and a computer with wifi.
SURVIVOR Contestant You Are Most Like: Parvati – I have a strong personality and lots of charm. Some people will see that as a threat, so I will have to get rid of them first.
Reason for Being on SURVIVOR: I want to win and prove to myself that I can outplay the competition. Plus, I’m looking for an adventure. Just getting on SURVIVOR is an incredible experience and a great example for my kids.
Why You Think You’ll “Survive” SURVIVOR: I’m social, hard working and easy to get along with.
Why You Think You Will Be the Sole SURVIVOR: I am lovable and a natural leader. People are drawn to me and they will do what I want. Even when I vote them out they will still like me and vote for me in the end.
Matt Bischoff (38)
Tribe Designation: Gota
Current Residence: Cincinnati, Ohio
Occupation: BMX Bike Sales
Personal Claim to Fame: I am most proud of being a daddy to my two boys. I do a lot of cool things and have personally achieved a lot, but being a dad is the best by far!
Inspiration in Life: Hans Langseth – he grew the longest beard ever at 17.5 feet long. He pretty much rules my life. All hail long beards!
Hobbies: Beards, singing in a band and BMX.
Pet Peeves: Uptight people with no sense of humor, people at gas stations that hold up the line to buy Lotto tickets, cigarettes and bad tippers.
Three Words to Describe You: Funny, over-the-top and caring.
If You Could Have 3 Things on The Island, What Would They Be and Why?
My iPod – I constantly listen to music. It is a huge part of my life. I also would want to view photos of my wife and kids.
A pen and notebook – to work on song lyrics and keep a daily diary.
A video camera – to film myself doing wild stuff!
SURVIVOR Contestant You Are Most Like: Rupert – he has a big heart and loved to play the game. His teddy-bear personality and tough looks remind me of myself. Also, Lex – he was a cool guy, a smart, down-to-earth dude with a band and lots of tattoos.
Reason for Being on SURVIVOR: I want to win. I also want to open up people’s minds and show them not to judge a book by its cover. A person’s true character lies within.
Why You Think You’ll “Survive” SURVIVOR: I’ll be able to keep people’s spirits up by making them laugh. I’m a hard worker. I’m highly positive and motivating. I will play a great social game. Plus, I feel like I will do well in challenges. I’m a team player. Anyone in my alliance will make it to the end.
Why You Think You Will Be the Sole SURVIVOR: I will play a great social game and people will want to keep me around. I’m confident that people will trust me.
Hope Driskill (23)
Tribe Designation: Gota
Current Residence: Jefferson City, Mo.
Occupation: Pre-Law Student
Personal Claim to Fame: Graduating summa cum laude and with general honors from the University of Missouri in May of 2012.
Inspiration in Life: My father, because he came from very little and has worked so hard. He has been a great role model for my brother and me.
Hobbies: Traveling, working out and reading.
Pet Peeves: Complainers.
Three Words to Describe You: Tenacious, intelligent and personable.
If You Could Have Three Things on The Island, What Would They Be and Why?
A picture of my family to keep me motivated.
Mosquito repellant, because they love me!
Toothbrush and toothpaste, because I can’t stand the feeling of grimy teeth!
SURVIVOR Contestant You Are Most Like: Andrea Boehlke, Brenda Lowe and Parvati Shallow because they are attractive, social, personable, but mentally and physically strong.
Reason for Being on SURVIVOR: I want to win the money to pay for law school and keep life exciting.
Why You Think You’ll “Survive” SURVIVOR: I grew up around the outdoors and can hold my own in physical and mental competitions. I’m also very social, likable and personable.
Why You Think You Will Be the Sole SURVIVOR: I am a nice Midwestern girl that competitors will like and see as non-threatening, but I have an underlying competitive drive to win.
Edward “Eddie” Fox (23)
Tribe Designation: Gota
Current Residence: East Brunswick, N.J.
Occupation: Fireman/EMT
Personal Claim to Fame: Helping others.
Inspiration in Life: My hero is my father. He is a man of great character. He puts his family before everything else. Anything he does is intended to better our family. He can be brutally honest at times and will tell you when he thinks you messed up, but he is fully supportive of everything we choose to do and will stop at nothing to help us succeed. He has a great sense of humor and is an awesome person. I could not have asked for a better dad.
Hobbies: Hiking, dirt biking and playing sports.
Pet Peeves: People who talk about things they know nothing about.
Three Words to Describe You: Outgoing, competitive and hard working.
If You Could Have Three Things on The Island, What Would They Be and Why?
Sneakers for moving faster and easier.
Some type of cutting tool to make hunting and building shelter easier.
A sleeping bag. You have to stay warm and comfortable to be well rested.
SURVIVOR Contestant You Are Most Like: I want to play the game like Boston Rob. He made friends with all the right people and set himself up to be the strongest competitor in the game.
Reason for Being on SURVIVOR: I’m very competitive and I’m looking forward to the intense competition. I also want to meet new people and have a great life experience. I will remember this forever.
Why You Think You’ll “Survive” SURVIVOR: I’m a very hard worker, I’m great with my hands, I have a great personality, I’m a good swimmer, I’m very social and I have a very positive attitude.
Why You Think You Will Be the Sole SURVIVOR: I am extremely strong-willed. I will do whatever is necessary to win. I am physically and mentally stronger than most people, and I’m great at strategizing and adapting to new situations.
Julia Landauer (21)
Tribe Designation: Gota
Current Residence: Stanford, Calif.
Occupation: Racecar Driver.
Personal Claim to Fame: I’m most proud of becoming the first female champion in the Skip Barber Racing Series. In its 31-year history the series never saw a female champion, and I made that accomplishment when I was 14.
Inspiration in Life: Paul Newman. He incorporated all of his loves into his daily life with amazing intensity. He was confident, humble and had a beautiful grin that made everyone around him melt. Paul was a star and a true gentleman who managed to personally touch everyone around him.
Hobbies: Puzzles, building things, working on cars and exploring New York City by subway and California by car.
Pet Peeves: Slow drivers in the left lane.
Three Words to Describe You: Passionate, intelligent and driven.
If You Could Have Three Things on The Island, What Would They Be and Why?
A great book – I love to lose myself in a fictional world.
My iPod – music is one of God’s greatest gifts.
Bananagrams – a nerdy game that’s a combination of scrabble and a crossword. It’s so much fun, competitive, creative and a great bonding game.
SURVIVOR Contestant You Are Most Like: Kim Spradlin, because she was very strategic, had few enemies and was a physical threat, all while maintaining her composure.
Reason for Being on SURVIVOR: I’m a competitive person and SURVIVOR is the epic challenge that will require me to incorporate all my strengths, minimize all my weaknesses and test myself and hopefully rise above the rest.
Why You Think You’ll “Survive” SURVIVOR: As a racecar driver I’m the center of my team, so it’s my job to lead and motivate everyone to be their best. I am smart, analytical and strategic. I focus on the big picture but also take note of the small details.
Why You Think You Will Be the Sole SURVIVOR: I’m competitive, strategic, amicable, physically fit and do what I have to in order to get ahead. I’m extremely focused and have an amazing ability to concentrate. I’ve been through the highest highs and the lowest lows with racing. I’m quick, a great team player and street-smart.
Alexandra “Allie” Pohevitz (25)
Tribe Designation: Gota
Current Residence: Oceanside, N.Y.
Occupation: Bartender
Personal Claim to Fame: Being the Editor-In-Chief of my school magazine, PIONEER. I worked so hard for it, and it was the biggest sense of accomplishment I ever felt when the issue went to print.
Inspiration in Life: My grandma. She was one of the most amazing women I have ever met. She was very ahead of her time and did what she had to to make sure that her family was safe and taken care of.
Hobbies: Hanging out with friends, drinking at work (I’m a bartender, so it’s not as unprofessional and horrible as it sounds) and working out.
Pet Peeves: I hate dirty people. I don’t mind if you are messy and leave clothes or papers around but if you drop food, clean it up. If you use a cup, wash it out. If you go to the bathroom, wash your hands! I also get annoyed with people who can’t keep their stories straight. I don’t even mind if you lie to me, just keep track of your lies, you fool.
Three Words to Describe You: Hilarious, cunning and observant.
If You Could Have Three Things on The Island, What Would They Be and Why?
Eyeliner – so I could be prettier than I already am.
Hair detangler
Crest white strips (see a theme?)
SURVIVOR Contestant You Are Most Like: Jenna Morasca – because I think she was very intelligent. She knew when to use sex appeal, when to play dumb, when to win and when to be smart.
Reason for Being on SURVIVOR: Anyone on SURVIVOR who says that money is not the #1 motivating factor is either a liar or completely brain-dead. The money is absolutely my motivation.
Why You Think You Will Be the Sole SURVIVOR: I believe that I could be the final SURVIVOR because people will underestimate me until it’s too late. I know that the game is just as much social as it is mental and emotional. I will go in with a plan, but I know that until I meet everyone out there, I can’t have a solid plan.
Michael Snow (44)
Tribe Designation: Gota
Current Residence: New York, N.Y.
Occupation: Event Planner
Personal Claim to Fame: I was a founding member of the Whole World Theatre in Atlanta. The show is still running today!
Inspiration in Life: My late friend Thomas Boyd. Thomas’s humor in the face of cancer and AIDS was unforgettable. He showed me grace and strength and taught me so much about life and death.
Hobbies: Running, theater/film (attending and participating), knitting and photobombing.
Pet Peeves: I don’t like “crazy.” If you can’t think rationally, stay away from me.
Three Words to Describe You: Determined, enthusiastic and witty.
If You Could Have Three Things on The Island, What Would They Be and Why?
Knitting needles and skeins of yarn
Cribbage
Journal
SURVIVOR Contestant You Are Most Like: Cirie and Rob Cesternino – Even though neither of them won, they are my two favorites. I relate to their game of listening, charming with humor and not acting like a jerk.
Reason for Being on SURVIVOR: I’m playing to win it.
Why You Think You’ll “Survive” SURVIVOR: I’m patient, a problem solver (I do it for a living) and a hard worker.
Why You Think You Will Be the Sole SURVIVOR: I possess a strong social game. I will bond with my tribe long enough to establish solid relationships, until I have to break them and vote them out. I come across as enthusiastic and easy going, but I have a focus and intensity that is only apparent when I need them. I am resilient and surprisingly firm in my decision making.
Shamar Thomas (27)
Tribe Designation: Gota
Current Residence: Brooklyn, N.Y.
Occupation: Iraq War Veteran
Personal Claim to Fame: I’m very proud of becoming a non-commissioned officer in the Marine Corps. Being a leader at a young age and responsible for other Marines has changed my life for the better.
Inspiration in Life: My grandma, because she has been the most consistent person in my life. Her love is unwavering. She works hard and is an amazing example of what a person ought to be.
Hobbies: Being with my family, going to the gym and activism.
Pet Peeves: My pet peeves are when people chew with their mouth open and when people are ignorant. I also can’t stand when civilians lack passion or enthusiasm about their jobs.
Three Words to Describe You: Cool, passionate and respected.
If You Could Have Three Things on The Island, What Would They Be and Why?
iPod – music gives me energy.
Laptop – I want to remain connected to the “outside world.”
Deck of cards – to play many different games.
SURVIVOR Contestant You Are Most Like: Rupert – because he played the game with honor. He has also worked with troubled youth. He shares my passion to help the community.
Reason for Being on SURVIVOR: My motivation for being on the show is to bring awareness to economical/social injustices and to bring honor and respect back to my community while inspiring the forgotten.
Why You Think You’ll “Survive” SURVIVOR: Because of my physical strength, ability to be a team player and leadership. I’m also good at making quick and sound decisions.
Why You Think You Will Be the Sole SURVIVOR: I will be the final Survivor because within my life I have lived in many places, enabling me to relate to the surroundings and the people that occupy them. Furthermore, my experience in Iraq has given me the confidence to face anything.
Reynold Toepfer (30)
Tribe Designation: Gota
Current Residence: San Francisco, Calif.
Occupation: Real Estate Sales
Personal Claim to Fame: Living abroad in Australia. I fully immersed myself in the culture, made beautiful friendships that will last a lifetime and gained a truer understanding of who I am.
Inspiration in Life: Tom Brady, because he is the ultimate competitor and always brings out the absolute best of anyone who plays with him. He displays such a calm poise in the most intense, stressful situations, and will never take credit for the victories he has led.
Hobbies: Swimming, rugby and crossword puzzles.
Pet Peeves: Negative people who feel sorry for themselves and winter.
Three Words to Describe You: Adventurous, resourceful and likable.
If You Could Have Three Things on The Island, What Would They Be and Why? Music and books are both passions of mine and are things that could alleviate some of the stress during the very trying times on Survivor. I’d also bring a volleyball. Sand volleyball is super fun, and I think some games on the beach could be good for the tribe.
SURVIVOR Contestant You Are Most Like: Physically, I think I can perform in challenges like Colby Donaldson. Socially, I flirt like Parvati Shallow and can handle intense confrontational situations with a smile on my face. And I’m a bit like Todd Herzog, where I can play into people’s egos to keep them blind to my agenda.
Reason for Being on SURVIVOR: The challenge! My life has been defined by putting myself in new and challenging situations and succeeding. SURVIVOR would be such an appropriate culmination as to what my life has been up to this point and I don’t think I could ever replicate anything as great as SURVIVOR on my own.
Why You Think You’ll “Survive” SURVIVOR: I’m a charmer. I dazzle people. They adore me and open up to me. I’m an excellent motivator, excellent physical competitor and have experience spear fishing.
Why You Think You Will Be the Sole SURVIVOR: With my charming personality and a long history of thriving in and adapting to new social situations, I am the best equipped to manipulate the actions of my fellow competitors to play my agenda. I’m in excellent physical shape, and my strong competitive drive makes me almost unstoppable.
Survivor: Caramoan – The Favorites
Andrea Boehlke (23)
Tribe Designation: Bikal
Previous Season: SURVIVOR: REDEMPTION ISLAND – 13th castaway voted out/ 8th Jury Member
Current Residence: New York, N.Y.
Occupation: Entertainment Host and Writer
Personal Claim to Fame: Moving to New York from Wisconsin on a whim and I’m still here!
Inspiration in Life: My father, Royal Boehlke – he’s one of a kind!
Hobbies: Horseback riding, sports, traveling and getting paid to talk.
Pet Peeves: New York men who cat-call women as we walk by. I don’t understand what that accomplishes.
Three Words to Describe You: Quirky, driven and fierce.
If You Could Have Three Things on The Island, What Would They Be and Why?
Yoga mat – It could serve as tarp/blanket/world’s shortest slip ‘n slide.
Juggling balls filled with rice – I’ve always wanted this.
A unicorn, but not one that could fly.
SURVIVOR Contestant You Are Most Like: I guess I’m a smidge like Stephenie LaGrossa when it comes to being a force in challenges and being a bit of a tomboy.
Reason for Being on SURVIVOR: I can’t really get myself to turn down a second adventure of a lifetime, so here I go again!
Why You Think You’ll “Survive” SURVIVOR: Besides having the outdoors stuff down, I now have one season under my belt and aim to come out of the gate swinging. I’m hoping all of the crazy people will target each other right off the bat.
Why You Think You Will Be the Sole SURVIVOR: There’s so much luck involved, but overall I am pretty good at making friends/alliances and can be pretty sneaky if I want to be. I plan to come out strong and aggressive in an all or nothing fashion and hopefully it works in my favor.
Brandon Hantz (21)
Tribe Designation: Bikal
Previous Season: SURVIVOR: SOUTH PACIFIC – 15th castaway voted out/7th Jury Member
Current Residence: Katy, Texas
Occupation: Chemical Disposal
Personal Claim to Fame: Being a good father to my children.
Inspiration in Life: Jesus Christ
Hobbies: Playing music, drawing and passionate love.
Pet Peeves: Stupid people
Three Words to Describe You: Sexy, crazy fun and loyal.
If You Could Have Three Things on The Island, What Would They Be and Why?
A picture of my children
The Bible
A pair of underwear
SURVIVOR Contestant You Are Most Like: Brandon Hantz from SURVIVOR: SOUTH PACIFIC – he’s so cute!
Reason for Being on SURVIVOR: Money, money, money!
Why You Think You’ll “Survive” SURVIVOR: Hunting, fishing and fire breathing!
Why You Think You Will Be the Sole SURVIVOR: I almost was the Sole Survivor, but I won’t make the same mistakes again.
Personal Claim to Fame: Winning an Hispanic beauty pageant.
Inspiration in Life: My parents
Hobbies: Paddleboarding, fishing and biking.
Pet Peeves: Weakness of character.
Three Words to Describe You: Straight-forward, smart and independent.
If You Could Have Three Things on The Island, What Would They Be and Why?
A picture of my fiancée.
A picture of my family.
My favorite yellow bunny.
SURVIVOR Contestant You Are Most Like: Ozzy Lusth – young, athletic, driven and focused.
Reason for Being on SURVIVOR: To win one million dollars.
Why You Think You’ll “Survive” SURVIVOR: I’m outdoorsy and have a positive attitude.
Why You Think You Will Be the Sole SURVIVOR: I have played before and learned from my mistakes. I am more mature, more focused and have more on the line this time.
Personal Claim to Fame: Being me and never holding anything back.
Inspiration in Life: This implies I want to “be like” someone else – I don’t. Though I do have role models, like my parents. My father taught me that life isn’t fair, and you have to work hard for what you want. My mother taught me the alternative is you can marry the guy who does all that. Both lessons are equally important to me.
Hobbies: Shutting down small talk.
Pet Peeves: So-called “actors” living in Hollywood, reality show losers and anyone who uses the “door open” button in an elevator.
Three Words to Describe You: Snarky, irreverent and opinionated.
If You Could Have Three Things on The Island, What Would They Be and Why?
Music – It is outrageous how slow time passes out there.
Hat – I aged an extra five years from squinting at the sun last time.
Journal – I want to remember every moment out there this time around.
SURVIVOR Contestant You Are Most Like: Randy Bailey from SURVIVOR: GABON. Hands down, no one else even comes close.
Reason for Being on SURVIVOR: I ran out of bar stories to tell from the first go-round.
Why You Think You’ll “Survive” SURVIVOR: I can handle both the physical and the mental aspects of the game like a champ, and I thoroughly enjoy watching everyone else who can’t.
Why You Think You Will Be the Sole SURVIVOR: I don’t have any insecurities. It is my experience that everyone else who plays this game is riddled with them. I plan to break them down and eat them alive.
Dawn Meehan (42)
Tribe Designation: Bikal
Previous Season: SURVIVOR: SOUTH PACIFIC – 11th castaway voted off/3rd Jury Member
Current Residence: South Jordan, Utah
Occupation: English Professor
Personal Claim to Fame: SURVIVOR: SOUTH PACIFIC and adopting our six amazing children.
Inspiration in Life: My husband.
Hobbies: Being with my family, baking bread and blogging.
Pet Peeves: Cranky or selfish people and brown grass.
Three Words to Describe You: Determined, enthusiastic and optimistic.
If You Could Have Three Things on The Island, What Would They Be and Why?
Picture of my kids – To remind me of my end goal.
Eckhart Tolle book – It inspires me to DO and BE my best!
Backgammon – To use at camp so I can observe other players’ strategy.
SURVIVOR Contestant You Are Most Like: Strong females who played a physical and strategic game – Kim Spradlin and Stephenie LaGrossa.
Reason for Being on SURVIVOR: The challenge! To see what I am made of.
Why You Think You’ll “Survive” SURVIVOR: I’m mentally and physically tough. I have good intuition. I’m not a quitter. And, I’m a good bridge between people of different backgrounds.
Why You Think You Will Be the Sole SURVIVOR: People underestimate me, but I have the mental, social and physical strengths to outlast and win!
Inspiration in Life: My dad and my girlfriend Dana.
Hobbies: Drawing, running and traveling.
Pet Peeves: Quiet or opinion-less people.
Three Words to Describe You: Easy going, humorous and original.
If You Could Have Three Things on The Island, What Would They Be and Why?
Contacts – So I can see.
Acrylic Paint – To paint a “masterpiece” at tribal camp.
A deck of cards – to eliminate any boredom.
SURVIVOR Contestant You Are Most Like: Ozzy – I am great at challenges too!
Reason for Being on SURVIVOR: To show everyone that I am really not dumb, and in actuality I am a smart, funny guy who just does things in a different way.
Why You Think You’ll “Survive” SURVIVOR: I’m physically strong and easily adapt to my surroundings.
Why You Think You Will Be the Sole SURVIVOR: I adapt to working with different personalities easily, and I have enough of an understanding of the game to improvise if necessary.
Francesca Hogi (38)
Tribe Designation: Bikal
Previous Season: SURVIVOR: REDEMPTION ISLAND – 1st castaway voted out
Current Residence: Brooklyn, N.Y.
Occupation: Attorney
Personal Claim to Fame: I climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro.
Inspiration in Life: My mom. She is smart, strong, caring and fearless.
Hobbies: Traveling, yoga and watching movies.
Pet Peeves: Liars, delusional people who only think about themselves and all-around inconsiderate people make me crazy!
Three Words to Describe You: Determined, outgoing and honest.
If You Could Have Three Things on The Island, What Would They Be and Why?
iPod – Nothing tunes out the chatter like music!
Floss – Food stuck in my teeth makes me crazy.
Air mattress – No one should have to sleep on bug infested bamboo.
SURVIVOR Contestant You Are Most Like: The most awesome contestant you can think of who went out early.
Reason for Being on SURVIVOR: Two reasons – money and redemption.
Why You Think You’ll “Survive” SURVIVOR: I’m strong. Also, not afraid of snakes or spiders.
Why You Think You Will Be the Sole SURVIVOR: I’m tenacious.
John Cochran (25)
Tribe Designation: Bikal
Previous Season: SURVIVOR: SOUTH PACIFIC – 13th castaway voted out/5th Jury Member
Current Residence: Washington, D.C.
Occupation: Harvard Law Student
Personal Claim to Fame: Flipping on my tribe, being reluctant to take off my shirt on day one of SURVIVOR: SOUTH PACIFIC.
Inspiration in Life: My family – for supporting and putting up with me.
Hobbies: Beatles music, guitar and SURVIVOR.
Pet Peeves: Self-entitlement and lack of a sense of humor.
Three Words to Describe You: Brilliant, insecure and neurotic.
If You Could Have Three Things on The Island, What Would They Be and Why?
Frisbee – It’s fun and doubles as a dish.
Cards – To pass the time.
Sketchpad – I like to doodle!
SURVIVOR Contestant You Are Most Like: I have the humor of Rob Cesternino, the intelligence of Yul Kwon and the candor of Jonathan Penner.
Reason for Being on SURVIVOR: I love SURVIVOR! I’ve watched it, talked about it, studied it, written about it and dreamt about it for half my life.
Why You Think You’ll “Survive” SURVIVOR: I’m too passionate about SURVIVOR to let harsh elements, starvation, sleep deprivation and abrasive tribemates deter me from lasting all 39 days.
Why You Think You Will Be the Sole SURVIVOR: Having played once before, I know the sorts of mistakes I’m susceptible to making. I didn’t win the last time I played, and I have no desire to repeat history. I still know more about SURVIVOR than virtually anyone else who’s ever played the game. Now I feel more mentally and psychologically prepared to put my theoretical knowledge of the game into practice.
Phillip Sheppard (54)
Tribe Designation: Bikal
Previous Season: SURVIVOR: REDEMPTION ISLAND – Made it to the final 3
Current Residence: Santa Monica, Calif.
Occupation: Chief Executive Officer of Enter Software Sales
Personal Claim to Fame: Having served as a soldier in the U.S Army and being a Special Agent.
Inspiration in Life: My son, my family and people in healthcare, the Fire Department and police officers who save lives in real time.
Hobbies: Skating, basketball, weightlifting and people.
Pet Peeves: People who act like they know everything and do nothing.
Three Words to Describe You: Outgoing, intelligent and a competitor.
If You Could Have Two Things on The Island, What Would They Be and Why?
Picture of my son, who I love very much.
Buddhist Meditation Bowl
SURVIVOR Contestant You Are Most Like: Smart players – Boston Rob, Andrea Boehlke and John Cochran.
Reason for Being on SURVIVOR: To win one million dollars and outwit the other contestants again.
Why You Think You’ll “Survive” SURVIVOR: I’m a hard worker who easily adapts to the elements in the wild.
Why You Think You Will Be the Sole SURVIVOR: I am smart, can read people well, and I finished 2nd last time around as the The Specialist.
Personal Claim to Fame: Once I spent over a month with Abi-Maria Gomes, and I’m still considered legally sane by the state of California.
Inspiration in Life: O.J. Simpson, before the murder trial. When he was a kid, he had rickets. For his birthday, when he was still young, his father took him to a signing to meet Jim Brown and O.J. hobbled right up to him and told him he was going to break all his records, which he eventually did. I’m a sucker for underdog stories.
Hobbies: Exercising, writing/reading and partying.
Pet Peeves: Ex-TV stars.
Three Words to Describe You: Charming, brilliant and slightly less cocky than the last time I did this.
If You Could Have Three Things on The Island, What Would They Be and Why?
Soap – Not for me; for whoever I end up cuddling with at night
Book of puzzles – Your mind is a muscle and needs to be kept in shape.
The Hidden Immunity Idol I never played in the Philippines – Early advantage. Seems obvious.
SURVIVOR Contestant You Are Most Like: This feels like a trick question.
Reason for Being on SURVIVOR: I’m a super-fan of the show. Getting to do it once was incredible. To get a second chance… How could anyone say no?
Why You Think You’ll “Survive” SURVIVOR: Experience plays a huge roll in any situation in life. I made it through 38 days the first time so I have to like my survival odds the second time around. Oh, and I’m also smart, athletic and nice to look at.
Why You Think You Will Be the Sole SURVIVOR: You play the game to win the game. I’m not on SURVIVOR to “have a life-changing experience” or “grow as a person” or “see how far I can make it.” Those things may happen, but that’s not the reason I’m out there. The best thing I have going for me is my single-mindedness and focus towards a single goal: a seven-digit bank account.
I’m not sure anyone was clamoring to see Conan O’Brien and Ricky Gervais strip to their undies, climb in a bathtub, and take a picture – but that doesn’t matter. They did it anyway while Gervais was a guest on Conan O’Brien’s show. Gervais loves to tweet unflattering pictures of himself, and this latest tub photo with Conan is no exception.
Breaking Bad: “Gliding Over All”
Kelley Dixon, A.C.E.
Mad Men: “The Other Woman”
Tom Wilson
Nashville: “Pilot”
Keith Henderson
Smash: “Pilot”
Andrew Weisblum, A.C.E.
BEST EDITED ONE-HOUR SERIES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL TELEVISION:
Homeland: “The Choice”
Terry Kelley, A.C.E.
Homeland: “State of Independence”
Jordan Goldman
The Newsroom: “We Just Decided To (Pilot)”
Anne McCabe, A.C.E.
BEST EDITED MINISERIES OR MOTION PICTURE FOR TELEVISION:
Game Change
Lucia Zucchetti, A.C.E.
Hatfields & McCoys, Part 1
Don Cassidy
Hemingway & Gellhorn
Walter Murch, A.C.E.
BEST EDITED NON-SCRIPTED SERIES:
Beyond Scared Straight: ” Oklahoma County, OK – The Weight”
Rob Goubeaux, A.C.E., Mark S. Andrew, A.C.E., Paul J. Coyne, A.C.E., Mark Baum, Jeremy Gantz, Johnny Skaare, J.C. Solis & Ken Yankee
Frozen Planet: “Ends of the Earth”
Andy Netley & Sharon Gillooly
Deadliest Catch: “I Don’t Want to Die”
Josh Earl, A.C.E. & Alex Durham
Opening in darkness, as phone calls to emergency services are frantically made from the top of the World Trade Center towers on 9/11, Zero Dark Thirty instantly sets a grim tone and little that happens over the next two and half hours does much to lighten the mood. Of course, one doesn’t exactly expect the story of hunting down the Al Qaeda head honcho to be a romantic comedy.
The film states via on-screen text that it’s based on first-hand accounts and director Kathryn Bigelow and screenwriter Mark Boal have attempted to create as accurate an account of events over the course of 10 years as possible. If one has read or merely glanced at entertainment news, the link between torture and credible evidence towards finding Osama bin Laden as portrayed in the movie is pretty much all anyone is talking about. According to everything the U.S. Government is saying about the results of torturing detainees, this appears to be a key misstep by the filmmakers, but it’s just about the only one.
Jessica Chastain plays a CIA agent hell-bent on locating Osama, whose resolve and attitude are eroded over the course of the film by bureaucracy and the elusiveness of her target. It’s a measured performance but purposefully so; the restraint exercised by Chastain paying off more and more as her character evolves. Her intensity and excellence is matched by the rest of the supporting cast, most notably by Jason Clarke and Kyle Chandler whom she relies on to first learn the ropes and then leverages once she is able to narrow down bin Laden’s hiding spot.
The cinematography, editing, and production design all work hand-in-hand with Bigelow’s vision. The film presents a mirror to the tactics and actions that have transpired since 9/11. However, rather than propagandizing like Act of Valor, there is no ‘rah rah’ going on here. Sure, eventually the Navy Seals are called in, and their part in things is done with supreme confidence and shifts the film into a higher gear with some excellent action. But don’t go into the theater expecting wall-to-wall action, this is about the tireless pursuit Chastain and her colleagues undertake and focuses mostly on the gathering of information.
By now, people are releasing their ‘Best of’ lists, and I’m sure cinemaphiles have realized Zero Dark Thirty made many of them (including mine). 2012 was rather lackluster overall, especially when it came to the big tent pole films, but this one hit the mark. Between the moral issues, reflection on a tumultuous period of history, and quality filmmaking, Bigelow and company have managed to deliver one of the few movies from the year that will still mean something down the road.
GRADE: A
Zero Dark Thirty is rated R for strong violence including brutal disturbing images, and for language.
They truly need to use this song on Here Comes Honey Boo Boo. It’s perfect, mentioning cheese balls, ketchup spaghetti, and go-go juice among other items associated with the pint-size beauty queen. Performed by Brad Paisley, the song debuted on Jimmy Kimmel Live.
Maybe I’m just in the mood for a quirky film, but Wrong seems sort of right to me. A missing dog, weird characters, and William Fichtner? I’m in.
The Plot:
Dolph Springer (Jack Plotnick) awakens one morning to find he has lost the sole love of his life – his dog, Paul. Desperate to reunite with his best friend and to set things right, Dolph embarks on a journey which spirals into the realm of the absurd. On his quest, he drastically alters the lives of several severely bizarro characters, including a promiscuous pizza delivery girl (Alexis Dziena), a mentally unstable, jogging-addicted neighbor, an opportunistic French-Mexican gardener, an eccentric pet detective (Steve Little) and most mysterious of all, an enigmatic pony-tailed guru, Master Chang (William Fichtner) who imparts his teachings to Dolph on how to metaphysically reconnect with his pet.
Without further ado, here are BAFTA’s choices for the 2013 Rising Star Award:
ELIZABETH OLSEN – At 17, Elizabeth moved to New York to study acting at the Tisch School of the Arts. After graduating she took Sundance by storm in 2011 when she appeared in not one but two of the most highly praised films in the festival: Martha Marcy May Marlene and Silent House. Most recently Elizabeth has completed production on the Spike Lee directed remake of Oldboy, opposite Samuel L. Jackson and Josh Brolin.
Olsen stated: “Being considered for this award is a huge honour. So many actors whom I admire have been recognized in this category and I’m very thankful to BAFTA and the jury for selecting me.”
ANDREA RISEBOROUGH – Andrea graduated from RADA in 2005 and quickly began to accumulate critical acclaim and awards for her stage and screen work. She made her film debut in Roger Michell’s Venus. Roles in Never Let Me Go, Brighton Rock and Mike Leigh’s comedy-drama Happy Go Lucky soon followed. Andrea has also starred as both a young Margaret Thatcher in Margaret Thatcher – The Long Walk to Finchley and Wallis Simpson in W.E. She recently finished filming opposite Tom Cruise in Oblivion, which will be released in April.
Andrea stated: “To even be counted amongst this, and the last seven years’ rising star nominees feels utterly phenomenal! BAFTA nurtures new talent throughout the international film community so I am so very grateful to be given this fantastic opportunity, and look forward to us celebrating the kind recognition together.”
SURAJ SHARMA – Until recently 19 year old Suraj was living a quiet, middle class life with his parents in the suburbs of South Delhi. But, after an extensive search throughout India, Suraj was picked from 3,000 hopefuls to star in director Ang Lee’s 3D epic, Life of Pi. Before taking on the role, Suraj had no previous acting experience. The director had complete faith in his young lead, describing Suraj as a “gift from god” and a “great actor in a past life”.
JUNO TEMPLE – In just a few years, Juno Temple has firmly established herself as one of the most versatile and talented young actresses in Hollywood. Her breakthrough arrived when she won the role of Cate Blanchett’s rebellious, brooding daughter in Notes on a Scandal. This led to her appearance in the BAFTA- and Oscar-winning Atonement, opposite Keira Knightley, James McAvoy and Saoirse Ronan. Since then a variety of well received film roles have followed, most recently opposite Matthew McConaughey and Emile Hirsch in the darkly comic Killer Joe.
Juno stated: “I’m extremely honoured to be nominated by BAFTA for this award and the fact the winner is voted for by the public makes it all the more exciting.”
ALICIA VIKANDER – Swedish born Alicia trained with The Royal Swedish Ballet for nine years before dedicating herself to acting. After appearing in several shorts and Swedish TV shows, she made her big-screen debut in Lisa Langseth’s Pure. 2012 saw Alicia burst onto the international scene with two major roles: Anna Karenina opposite Keira Knightley and Jude Law and the period drama A Royal Affair with Mads Mikkelsen. Recently Alicia has starred in the Warner Bros. feature The Seventh Son.
Alicia stated: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be nominated for this year’s EE Rising Star Award and would like to thank the jury for short-listing me. 2012 was an amazing year for me and I want to thank everyone who has supported me in my career to date.”
The winner will be announced on Sunday, February 10, 2013.
Try saying that 10 times fast…or not. The first photo from Frank has hit the internet featuring Maggie Gyllenhaal, Michael Fassbender, and Domnhall Gleeson. And while I like the premise and think it could be one of the better quirky films of the year, I’m a little disappointed in not seeing Fassbender’s face.
Frank is currently in production with Lenny Abrahamson directing.
The Plot:
Frank is a comedy about a young wannabe musician, Jon (Gleeson), who discovers he’s bitten off more than he can chew when he joins a band of eccentric pop musicians led by the mysterious and enigmatic Frank (Fassbender).
