Friday, January 10, 2003
Socio-Political MTV (featuring 'brand spanking new music!):
I tried, but failed to find a link on the MTV website esclusively about the TV movie that aired tonight entitled, I believe, Everybody's Doing It. Holy fucking shit. This was quite an 'educational' film.
Through countless subtley implemented red herrings, a few promising performances from teen actors, and a focused, balanced agenda regarding pedagogy and teen sexuality, this movie almost completely distracted me from a marathon Minesweeper session. The last half-hour had me completely enthralled (upon my new futon in recline-position, heh heh).
While the film occasionally began to open itself up to all the predictable criticisms (defending the MTV programming culture, preaching against conservative views unabashed, making unrealistic trojan-horse characters out of their young cast), it was quick to completely redeem itself. While never subtle about it's political and social points, real characters emerged (I could definitely relate to some of the 'relationship stresses' encountered (and well-acted) between 'Travis' and 'Angela.' The young actress portraying 'Angela' was particularly striking/convincing as the confused yet truth-seeking non-conformist.
How the film works: well, basically the aforementioned couple break up over a summer between 10th and 11th grades, just before they decide to "do the do." Run opening credits, and the film resumes at the beginning of 11th grade, with the two getting back together (knowing that they have something special) and the school implementing a new Abstinence-Only SEX ED program (bolstered by money promised by the Federal government in return, a program actually supported by Bush). For MTV's summary on the prominence of "AB-only" programs and the debate about more "comprehensive" programs, go here. Of course, there are plenty of other sites to seek out, as well.
Anyway, seeing a means to polish her transcript, a college-horny blonde takes up the banner of an "abstinence pledge" campaign, and makes it chic to sign up. Pretty soon, "everybody's doing it," as in signing. Ok, so it's a facile turning of the tables, but it makes a good point. People feel pressured to conform, while the information being taught in class fails to address all of the facts regarding sex and contraceptions. Angele pushes the envelope and encounters mounting pressure from her peers and teachers to conform, which she resists 'til the end. What is humorous (and MTV astutely admits in a disclaimer that the film is a farce with an agenda) is the fascist extremes the Abstinence task force goes to, getting students to inform on their friends and enemies, holding a Spanish Inquisition/Salem Witch Hunt -like tribunals where the blonde-reese witherspoon-from-Election-clone wields a McCarthy-esque power over the students. The extreme pressure has the opposite effect on the student bodies (a plot-twist based on actual statistics), and the whole thing comes rattling down, like a loose muffler under a love-making van.
So, why bother with the probably-boring re-cap? I dunno. I think it was worthwhile watching, especially given that Abstinence-Only courses are being taught, espcially in more conservative-Christian belts (but now, perhaps with the lure of subsidies, anywhere). And I don't know if MTV plans on re-airing it.
I found myself siding with the filmmakers: no one should be pressured into thinking either side of "do it" "don't do it til marriage" is better than the other, but the facts about human sexuality and safety in today's world are just vital, and kids should at least have the choice to be educated during their tenure at high school. More commentary if anyone care's to comment...(not that I'm fishing, or anything).
I tried, but failed to find a link on the MTV website esclusively about the TV movie that aired tonight entitled, I believe, Everybody's Doing It. Holy fucking shit. This was quite an 'educational' film.
Through countless subtley implemented red herrings, a few promising performances from teen actors, and a focused, balanced agenda regarding pedagogy and teen sexuality, this movie almost completely distracted me from a marathon Minesweeper session. The last half-hour had me completely enthralled (upon my new futon in recline-position, heh heh).
While the film occasionally began to open itself up to all the predictable criticisms (defending the MTV programming culture, preaching against conservative views unabashed, making unrealistic trojan-horse characters out of their young cast), it was quick to completely redeem itself. While never subtle about it's political and social points, real characters emerged (I could definitely relate to some of the 'relationship stresses' encountered (and well-acted) between 'Travis' and 'Angela.' The young actress portraying 'Angela' was particularly striking/convincing as the confused yet truth-seeking non-conformist.
How the film works: well, basically the aforementioned couple break up over a summer between 10th and 11th grades, just before they decide to "do the do." Run opening credits, and the film resumes at the beginning of 11th grade, with the two getting back together (knowing that they have something special) and the school implementing a new Abstinence-Only SEX ED program (bolstered by money promised by the Federal government in return, a program actually supported by Bush). For MTV's summary on the prominence of "AB-only" programs and the debate about more "comprehensive" programs, go here. Of course, there are plenty of other sites to seek out, as well.
Anyway, seeing a means to polish her transcript, a college-horny blonde takes up the banner of an "abstinence pledge" campaign, and makes it chic to sign up. Pretty soon, "everybody's doing it," as in signing. Ok, so it's a facile turning of the tables, but it makes a good point. People feel pressured to conform, while the information being taught in class fails to address all of the facts regarding sex and contraceptions. Angele pushes the envelope and encounters mounting pressure from her peers and teachers to conform, which she resists 'til the end. What is humorous (and MTV astutely admits in a disclaimer that the film is a farce with an agenda) is the fascist extremes the Abstinence task force goes to, getting students to inform on their friends and enemies, holding a Spanish Inquisition/Salem Witch Hunt -like tribunals where the blonde-reese witherspoon-from-Election-clone wields a McCarthy-esque power over the students. The extreme pressure has the opposite effect on the student bodies (a plot-twist based on actual statistics), and the whole thing comes rattling down, like a loose muffler under a love-making van.
So, why bother with the probably-boring re-cap? I dunno. I think it was worthwhile watching, especially given that Abstinence-Only courses are being taught, espcially in more conservative-Christian belts (but now, perhaps with the lure of subsidies, anywhere). And I don't know if MTV plans on re-airing it.
I found myself siding with the filmmakers: no one should be pressured into thinking either side of "do it" "don't do it til marriage" is better than the other, but the facts about human sexuality and safety in today's world are just vital, and kids should at least have the choice to be educated during their tenure at high school. More commentary if anyone care's to comment...(not that I'm fishing, or anything).
Locus:
Back at THE KNOX. The campus is strange when empty, and I'm lonely ('cept for Fairlie), with looming classes and a need to prepare for them my only other companions.
So what do I do? I further indebt myself favor-wise to the wonderful Fairlie Lawrence by asking her to assist me in futon-shopping, something I've been putting off since September. It makes so little sense that I held out longer about getting the futon than I did about the cell-phone: a phone cost money monthly, whereas the futon is a one-shot deal; I could've been enjoying my futon ALL this time and I'd still be out the same amount of money— EXCEPT that the futon specialty store I went to was celebrating its 20th anniversary, and there were sweet deals to be had by all. I am currently ecstatic about my new wood-frame full-size futon (at $50 off) with dark blue cover (at 20%off) that adjusts into couch, recliner, and sleeper positions. I have a feeling it'll be permanently set on "recline" for it allows the maximum simultaneous relaxation/task-completion/media-enjoyment attainment.
The internet is dead in my appartment (naturally) but alive here in the library of Dann Academic Building. It's creepy here alone at night, and I don't know how long I'll be able to take the 'fear factor.'
Back at THE KNOX. The campus is strange when empty, and I'm lonely ('cept for Fairlie), with looming classes and a need to prepare for them my only other companions.
So what do I do? I further indebt myself favor-wise to the wonderful Fairlie Lawrence by asking her to assist me in futon-shopping, something I've been putting off since September. It makes so little sense that I held out longer about getting the futon than I did about the cell-phone: a phone cost money monthly, whereas the futon is a one-shot deal; I could've been enjoying my futon ALL this time and I'd still be out the same amount of money— EXCEPT that the futon specialty store I went to was celebrating its 20th anniversary, and there were sweet deals to be had by all. I am currently ecstatic about my new wood-frame full-size futon (at $50 off) with dark blue cover (at 20%off) that adjusts into couch, recliner, and sleeper positions. I have a feeling it'll be permanently set on "recline" for it allows the maximum simultaneous relaxation/task-completion/media-enjoyment attainment.
The internet is dead in my appartment (naturally) but alive here in the library of Dann Academic Building. It's creepy here alone at night, and I don't know how long I'll be able to take the 'fear factor.'
Wednesday, January 08, 2003
THIS is getting bad, but it's fun and funny, and reminds me of my old "CAPTION THIS" days over at the once teeming Mystery Science Theater 3000 website.
Go add to the madness!
Go add to the madness!
Locus, Stay-tus:
Carmel, NY. Just 15 minutes from the Connecticut border, home to man-dug Lake Carmel (but sadly not Mt. Carmel, of biblical (and St. Anthony's feast-related-, fame). Officially, Gary's house is in Kent, NY, which does not has its own postal center, thus he is lumped into the Carmel area code. Plenty of snow here, as there was all across central New York. The center strip between the directions of traffic on Interstate 90 was positively crammed with plowed-over snow all around Albany, which has been hit hard by both intense winter storms. Watertown is jealous, eager to catch up.
The Deterioration of my Hyundai and a Day in Danbury,CT:
Just before I reached Gary's locale (in fact as I attempted to exit I-84) my power steering died, and I was left to wrestle with the immediate physics of a moving vehicle the old fashioned way. It was not fun. In case you were growing attached to my gray Korean import machine of incredi-gasmileage lovewonder, let me increase your affinity by sharing its true name, only recently discovered through the magic of consumer television: "Perfect Cookie." No, you didn't read me wrong, "Perfect Cookie." If you've seen this miracle device on TV, there should be no doubt as to why I choose it as my car's namesake.
Anyway, I managed to maneuver it to the Hyundai dealership in Danbury, and Gary and I spent the day in that fair city, awaiting news. We had a splendid breakfast at a new Diner run by Greeks, drove around, cruised the mall, and caught the new Pedro Almodovar film, Habla con Ella (Talk to Her), at this great little theater in Bethel, CT. A review for The Philler is forthcoming, which I may post here, as well, but I can say that I am even more impressed with this offering than Almodovar's last film, the brilliant Todo Sobre mi Madre. This new movie is a continuation, but refinement, of earlier themes regarding gender, sexuality, and unorthodox relationships. In a year where everyone (ir)responible for accrediting late-breaking films with praise and brilliancy, no doubt overwhelmingly upon the new Roman Polanski Holocaust film "The Pianist," will go oscar-crazed, I'd hate to see Almodovar's gem get overlooked (especially since so much attention was given "Todo Sobre" two years ago). This really is an even better product.
Incidentally, while strolling the lovely Danbury Mall (simple, modern, easy), Gary and I found a kiosk brimming with a cache of As Seen on TV products, most impressively (get this Laura!)....The Gopher! Yes, "Gopher-it!" with THE GOPHER, the light, easily operated gripping machine. Hensile enough to pick up a dropped pencil, but strong enough to handle this 5 gallon jug of paint! I *almost* bought one, but did not feel like being a sucker at that moment (having been materially-seduced by a simply perfect leather jacket at Banana Republic not 4 minutes prior, and subsequently guilt-fucked about my deteriorating ideals (but not that much)).
And, in case you were still curious, my car had a "bad" water-hose/pump, which I'm told is a common cause of steering malfunction. It is likely also the main contributor to the piercing shrieking noise my car has been making at 1-5 mph. Depending on when they can get the correct part, the car should be healthy and new by tomorrow or Friday (I'm hoping). The Carrion's are gracious, gracious hosts.
AND, with this (free) repair job, I FINALLY get to take advantage of my handy-dandy Ten Year - 100,000 Mile Warranty! WOO FUCKING HOO!
Carmel, NY. Just 15 minutes from the Connecticut border, home to man-dug Lake Carmel (but sadly not Mt. Carmel, of biblical (and St. Anthony's feast-related-, fame). Officially, Gary's house is in Kent, NY, which does not has its own postal center, thus he is lumped into the Carmel area code. Plenty of snow here, as there was all across central New York. The center strip between the directions of traffic on Interstate 90 was positively crammed with plowed-over snow all around Albany, which has been hit hard by both intense winter storms. Watertown is jealous, eager to catch up.
The Deterioration of my Hyundai and a Day in Danbury,CT:
Just before I reached Gary's locale (in fact as I attempted to exit I-84) my power steering died, and I was left to wrestle with the immediate physics of a moving vehicle the old fashioned way. It was not fun. In case you were growing attached to my gray Korean import machine of incredi-gasmileage lovewonder, let me increase your affinity by sharing its true name, only recently discovered through the magic of consumer television: "Perfect Cookie." No, you didn't read me wrong, "Perfect Cookie." If you've seen this miracle device on TV, there should be no doubt as to why I choose it as my car's namesake.
Anyway, I managed to maneuver it to the Hyundai dealership in Danbury, and Gary and I spent the day in that fair city, awaiting news. We had a splendid breakfast at a new Diner run by Greeks, drove around, cruised the mall, and caught the new Pedro Almodovar film, Habla con Ella (Talk to Her), at this great little theater in Bethel, CT. A review for The Philler is forthcoming, which I may post here, as well, but I can say that I am even more impressed with this offering than Almodovar's last film, the brilliant Todo Sobre mi Madre. This new movie is a continuation, but refinement, of earlier themes regarding gender, sexuality, and unorthodox relationships. In a year where everyone (ir)responible for accrediting late-breaking films with praise and brilliancy, no doubt overwhelmingly upon the new Roman Polanski Holocaust film "The Pianist," will go oscar-crazed, I'd hate to see Almodovar's gem get overlooked (especially since so much attention was given "Todo Sobre" two years ago). This really is an even better product.
Incidentally, while strolling the lovely Danbury Mall (simple, modern, easy), Gary and I found a kiosk brimming with a cache of As Seen on TV products, most impressively (get this Laura!)....The Gopher! Yes, "Gopher-it!" with THE GOPHER, the light, easily operated gripping machine. Hensile enough to pick up a dropped pencil, but strong enough to handle this 5 gallon jug of paint! I *almost* bought one, but did not feel like being a sucker at that moment (having been materially-seduced by a simply perfect leather jacket at Banana Republic not 4 minutes prior, and subsequently guilt-fucked about my deteriorating ideals (but not that much)).
And, in case you were still curious, my car had a "bad" water-hose/pump, which I'm told is a common cause of steering malfunction. It is likely also the main contributor to the piercing shrieking noise my car has been making at 1-5 mph. Depending on when they can get the correct part, the car should be healthy and new by tomorrow or Friday (I'm hoping). The Carrion's are gracious, gracious hosts.
AND, with this (free) repair job, I FINALLY get to take advantage of my handy-dandy Ten Year - 100,000 Mile Warranty! WOO FUCKING HOO!
Monday, January 06, 2003
ITEM:
The "Word of the Year" has been announced, and it's hyphenated! The winner is....."weapons-of-mass-destruction!" YaaaaY! Woo-Hoo!
Linguists of all shapes and backgrounds agreed that:
All these words — Iraqnaphobia, regime change, weapons of mass destruction — they all have to do with worry about war with Iraq. So it hasn't been a very good year," he said. "Not as bad as last year, but certainly not an 'up' year."
Certainly not an "up" year. You don't say. But not as bad as last year, oh no. Certainly not.
If the word "weapons-of-mass-destruction" were to give an acceptance speech, would it result in vast rows of corpses in tuxedos and evening gowns?
The "Word of the Year" has been announced, and it's hyphenated! The winner is....."weapons-of-mass-destruction!" YaaaaY! Woo-Hoo!
Linguists of all shapes and backgrounds agreed that:
All these words — Iraqnaphobia, regime change, weapons of mass destruction — they all have to do with worry about war with Iraq. So it hasn't been a very good year," he said. "Not as bad as last year, but certainly not an 'up' year."
Certainly not an "up" year. You don't say. But not as bad as last year, oh no. Certainly not.
If the word "weapons-of-mass-destruction" were to give an acceptance speech, would it result in vast rows of corpses in tuxedos and evening gowns?
What's Insipid Today?(but not to be missed):
Joe Millionaire
If you can claim any manner of sensory contact with the world outside your body, then the hype-machine surrounding FOX's new Reality series with a twist-that's-twisted has somehow found you and hit you, hard. We all become hypocritical snobs: we're disgusted by what we see, and yet we've all made plans to watch tonight at 9PM (even if it means toting a small television set up or down or outside to a secret viewing nest where you can indulge your puerile weakness in secret).
Fuck, I'll be watching tonight. Well, then again I am in Watertown for the second week (almost straight). Still...
In case you've escaped— the "twist" to this bachelor-romance-intrigue reality show is that all the women competing for Joe's heart believe that he is worth 50M, when he only takes in $19,000 per year (the promos show Joe at his "real" construction job, which makes it tough to believe he only pulls in 19 thou: construction pays damn well, usually under the table if you're a young buck comme Joe. Maybe he takes a lot of long vacations?). "True love" will be pitted against greed across classes and class-related expectations. Mmmm mmmm.
Joe Millionaire
If you can claim any manner of sensory contact with the world outside your body, then the hype-machine surrounding FOX's new Reality series with a twist-that's-twisted has somehow found you and hit you, hard. We all become hypocritical snobs: we're disgusted by what we see, and yet we've all made plans to watch tonight at 9PM (even if it means toting a small television set up or down or outside to a secret viewing nest where you can indulge your puerile weakness in secret).
Fuck, I'll be watching tonight. Well, then again I am in Watertown for the second week (almost straight). Still...
In case you've escaped— the "twist" to this bachelor-romance-intrigue reality show is that all the women competing for Joe's heart believe that he is worth 50M, when he only takes in $19,000 per year (the promos show Joe at his "real" construction job, which makes it tough to believe he only pulls in 19 thou: construction pays damn well, usually under the table if you're a young buck comme Joe. Maybe he takes a lot of long vacations?). "True love" will be pitted against greed across classes and class-related expectations. Mmmm mmmm.
STAY-TUS:
Currently on day #3 of my Oswegan-Townhouse-Campout at the Lymans'. Laura leaves for Oregon this afternoon (sniff), and when she reads this, she will most likely be three hours behind EST, preparing her beloved snowboard for Misty Moutain Hop 360 DooHinger Flops, and whatnot. Stay safe, sweety!
I return to Watertown today for one last stay. Tomorrow, I set off for loverly Carmel, NY to check up on Gary, who is also adrift between responsibilities (until next week, when I believe his classes to become certified in Elementary Ed. begin). Lots of solid TV watching and other ill activities await.
I'm still looking to add more dates to my spontaneous East Coast Colgate-Peep Mini-Tour '03. I have until Sunday at noon to NOT be needed at The School...
Health:
The dreaded marathon headcold yet lingers, and just barely. Does excessive drinking prolong sickness? Gee, it's a good thing I've haven't been drinking excessively....(the Lyman's know how to party, lemme tell ya).
Currently on day #3 of my Oswegan-Townhouse-Campout at the Lymans'. Laura leaves for Oregon this afternoon (sniff), and when she reads this, she will most likely be three hours behind EST, preparing her beloved snowboard for Misty Moutain Hop 360 DooHinger Flops, and whatnot. Stay safe, sweety!
I return to Watertown today for one last stay. Tomorrow, I set off for loverly Carmel, NY to check up on Gary, who is also adrift between responsibilities (until next week, when I believe his classes to become certified in Elementary Ed. begin). Lots of solid TV watching and other ill activities await.
I'm still looking to add more dates to my spontaneous East Coast Colgate-Peep Mini-Tour '03. I have until Sunday at noon to NOT be needed at The School...
Health:
The dreaded marathon headcold yet lingers, and just barely. Does excessive drinking prolong sickness? Gee, it's a good thing I've haven't been drinking excessively....(the Lyman's know how to party, lemme tell ya).
Observation:
Hollywood films are gravitating most rapidly toward the condition of movie trailers; movie trailers are rapidly approaching dominance over the speed of light; is the next step a black hole?
Hollywood films are gravitating most rapidly toward the condition of movie trailers; movie trailers are rapidly approaching dominance over the speed of light; is the next step a black hole?
