There is an indie singer/songwriter Nick Mery aka Merykid, that I think many will find to be an interesting listen. He has a very unique sound, as you can hear on his Myspace. He mixes pop, folk, and experimental music and it is definitely nothing I have ever heard before. There is no shortage in self creativity as he is self-taught in the following instruments: acoustic guitar, bass, drums, bouzouki, harmonica, trumpet, banjo, synthesizer, and numerous percussion instruments.
Merykid's sophomore EP Boy & The Bird is due to release on June 30, 2009. He says of his new project, “The album was written at a time when I had a lot more questions than I did answers.” Two of Merykid's favorite albums are Ryan Adam’s Love Is Hell and Radiohead’s In Rainbows, so the new EP may have some familiar sounds. On the EP, I enjoy the song, Keep Movin the most since it is inspirational and I know that I can listen to it no matter what mood I am in. The songs, Bad Things and Goodbye Moon are written so well. No, these songs are not inspirational but they definitely make you think. I like music that makes me think. I also really liked, If She Only Knew which is about a good relationship gone wrong but as you can tell from the title, there is more to it. Everyone can take something from that song based on various experiences in relationships.
Now over the years, Merykid has performed with Blue October, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, and Katharine McPhee among others. Who knows who he will be playing with in the future...but based on who he has performed with in the past, I can only imagine nothing but the best.
Season 3 of Army Wives premieres on June 7, 2009 at 10/9c and I recently had the opportunity to talk to one of the members of the cast, Brian McNamara. Below, Brian talks about what to expect in Season 3, what makes his character, Michael and the character Claudia Joy (Kim Delaney) such a great couple, and more.
Did you read any memoirs or autobiographies written by army wives or those in the military to prepare for your role? No I did not. After I got the role, I did read the book that the series is originally based on, which is Under the Sabers: The Unwritten Code of Army Wives by Tanya Biank.
Does your brother Christopher give you input on the show regarding the portrayal of the soldiers? Not really. After season 1 and going into season 2, he gave me some compliments on how well the show was doing and critiqued a couple of things but he was really happy. I watched him a lot growing up so he is literally the guy I am imitating when I play Michael Holden.
How far into Season 3 has the cast shot? We just passed the halfway mark. We are doing 18 episodes this season and we just shot episode 10.
Can you give a vague description of where we see the show and your character go in the 3rd season? In general, we still continue to have some situations with our daughter. Her and I in particular have a bit of a cold war going on. Michael continues to move through the ranks of the army. There are a few bumps in the road but he should get there.
In Army Wives Confidential interview you said that you hope Michael and Claudia’s relationship continues to get tested and based on your description above it looks like that will happen. But are there any moments that are simply happy? Oh yea. Actually there are more happy moments than the opposite. That is one of the things I love about doing this role, especially with Kim Delaney. She is such an extraordinary actress to work with and we have an incredible relationship on camera. Michael and Claudia Joy adore each other. I love the fact that we are portraying such a positive relationship. I also don't think that any parent, when they lose a child ever gets over it. I don't know that I could even imagine the pain. I don't know how people go on but somehow they do and hopefully we are portraying this in a respectful and somehow inspiring way.
There is a poll on mylifetime.com on which Army Wives couple will last and Michael & Claudia are in the lead. Why do you think you are in the lead, what makes Michael & Claudia such a powerful couple? From the very beginning the writers have done such a great job creating them as the moral core of the show. They are just a solid couple. Not to say that there aren't bumps in the road but they get through them pretty well. All of the generals that I have met through the last few years consider their wives and themselves a command team. That is what I think of Michael & Claudia Joy. And of course, they are incredibly attracted to each other and very passionate about each other.
Where would you like to see your character go? At the beginning of this season I spent two full days of full access with Major General Tony Cucolo in Georgia. I went to every meeting and briefing he went to, lunch, dinner, running with him 5:30am, etc... He is a great guy and a great leader. He is incredibly personable. That is the kind of stuff I would like to continue to see. Again, it is army wives, so I know my place in the show.
Has the cast given personal tours of the set to real life soldiers? We do. We get soldiers and their wives coming through. Anytime anyone comes to Charleston, SC they are more than welcome to come. It's a special treat since these are the people we are playing for and to know that they appreciate it is so satisfying.
Are you a big fan of any of the musicians that have had songs appear on the show? I love the music on our show but I do not know the exact names of anyone in particular. We do have a special musical guest coming up in the middle of this season. That is going to be very cool.
What's your favorite past time activity in Charleston, SC away from the set of Army Wives? I guess that would be cooking with Brigid Brannagh who plays Pamela on the show. I love to cook!
Fans recently saw a YouTube video by a casting assistant spoofing Susan Boyle to Army Wives cast & crew. Is the set always this fun? It is always that fun on the set, yes. It is an extraordinary set. One of our casting executives is trying to get some big names now for certain guest roles and I hear that there is not an actor who has come away from set with anything other than thrills. We are so fortunate. We have a group of women who adore each other and all of the guys get along so well. Our crew and production team is great.
Aside from Army Wives, do you have any upcoming projects? I have already directed a movie so I would love to get into directing on hiatus. My hope is also to try and get involved in directing on Army Wives. Neither is officially set but it would be great.
I recently had the opportunity to chat with another professional who interviews the stars just like me. I talked to Laura-Lynn Tyler Thompson, host of the Canadian television show The Daily. Over 90 of Laura-Lynn’s interviews have aired on the Biography Channel Canada and this is only the beginning.
You have interviewed many Hollywood stars, so I just want to ask you about some of the stars that you have interviewed:
Dog the Bounty Hunter That was probably one of my interesting days interviewing. We spent the day interviewing him in Hawaii. His wife and daughter were also there. He was very down to earth. He just came up and gave me a big hug and he was so nice. Since then, he has been through some drama but he has such a gentle heart. He came to peers and talked to him about how he became a bounty hunter.
Jared Leto I didn't find him to be the person who wears his life on his sleeve. I came away from that interview feeling that I was no closer to knowing who the real person was.
Tom Green As an interviewer, it is important to get the real scope of people. Now we all have things that we do not want to talk about but somehow his relationship just slipped in and I couldn't stop myself. He didn't get mad, throw me out or get mad. He did seem a bit tense but he talked fairly opened about it which I found very interesting. As the interview went on, he began to be become in a more comedic mood and it was really fun, really interesting.
Clay Aiken I really liked him, he was extremely personable. He has a very warm heart. One of the questions I asked Clay was what kind of women he would like to marry one day. I heard that people thought he was gay but I wasn't going to make the assumption. He answered that he would like someone like his mom, someone strong, someone that he could respect and admire. I did see a bit of uncomfortableness in the question and I didn't understand why that could be difficult until a lot later. We got a lot of positive feedback from that interview and one of the main reasons is because he went to Africa and took a lot of time to talk about that.
The Pointer Sisters Wow! They are hysterical! The room is electric and magnificent when they walk into a room. Their charisma literally engulfs you. These are great entertainers with beautiful hearts. It was an honor. I tried to sing when them and it wasn't really good when I joined in but it was a comedic moment to let our hair down.
You have an upcoming book Outrageous, but when did you start writing? I have been writing for so many years because I have been keeping diaries throughout the years. I really love to write down significant life changing moments. When I look back, my journey has been an outrageous journey. I am hoping this year to really break into the US market. All of this from 10 years ago when I was a stay at home mom in her second marriage that was failing. I felt very called one night...I was folding laundry one night and I was watching television and something inside of me just said that I needed to do that. I needed to make meaningful television and bring stories to people in an entertaining and engaging way. I called the local television station and asked if I could have my own show. That was a resounding silence from the other end of the line. I was asked what broadcasting school I went to and I had been a stay at home mom for several years. The lady I was on the phone with told me to volunteer and 2 days later I was at the final volunteer meeting that was being held for several months. That began my journey. People don't always get your call but you can never give up. Whatever your destiny is, it will make room for you. The path will open up to you and the only thing that will keep you from it is fear or if you listen to the people around you who tell you that you can't do it.
How did the popular half hour talk series ‘The Daily with Mark and Laura-Lynn’ come together? Mark and I knew each other through Channel 10. We did a few television bits together and Mark was so well spoken and was really comedic. So as time went on, we made a pilot together and hooked up with a producer that I knew. Suddenly, we had this national show. I am so grateful.
Would you consider writing more books in the future. Yes! I always thought that I had one good book in me but as I have been writing, I have found that I have a few more good books in me. I hope that I can have many books under my belt.
The Daily with Mark and Laura-Lynn airs everyday in Vancouver at 6am, 3:30pm, and 7pm on CHNU channel 10, and nationally at 6am and 2:30pm on the Vision Network for a half hour.
You May Have Seen Her on TV in: Commercials for Orville Redenbacher, Citibank, Wal-Mart, Hallmark, Dairy Queen, and Tostitos, Saturday Night Live, Chapelle’s Show, and TLC’s Ballroom Bootcamp
You May Have Seen Her in Print Ads for: Sears, Kmart, Macy’s, and Babies R Us
G.I. Joe Rise of Cobra Rating: Not Yet Rated Release Date: 08/07/2009 Cast: Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Christopher Eccleston, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Sienna Miller, Channing Tatum, Marlon Wayans, Rachel Nichols, Ray Park, Byung-hun Lee
Just Released:
In Theaters
UP Trailer Rating: PG Release Date: 05/29/2009 Cast: Edward Asner, Jordan Nagai, Bob Peterson, Christopher Plummer, Delroy Lindo, Jerome Ranft
On DVD
New in Town Rating: PG Release Date: 05/26/2009 Cast: Renée Zellweger, Harry Connick Jr., J.K. Simmons, Siobhan Fallon Hogan, Frances Conroy
A Look Back:
X-Men: The Last Stand Rating: PG-13 Release Date: 05/26/2006 Cast: Hugh Jackman, Halle Berry, Ian McKellen, Patrick Stewart, Famke Janssen, Rebecca Romijn, Anna Paquin
I was recently introduced to LA based singer-songwriter, Arrica Rose who has just released her new EP, Pretend I'm Fur. I found out that it debuted at #32 on the iTunes Singer-Songwriter Charts. I didn't know it when the show aired but I also found out that I heard Arrica's music on the past NBC show, Lipstick Jungle.
She is described as indie-folk-pop and listening to the new EP, I cannot say that I heard much pop. The closest thing to pop would be the song "Be" which needs to be sped up in order for the "pop"! I can't really say that many of the songs are upbeat. There is one song called "Tragedy" and it is definitely the song you listen to when you are having a bad day and are not interested in being uplifted. I really like the keys on the track, "Pillow on the Ground." Musically, I also enjoyed the songs, "Say Goodbye" and "Be Still My Heart" the most. I love all of the musical elements of these songs. "Be Still My Heart" and "I'll Love You Forever & Other Lies" seem inspired musically by the Latino culture. I love this mix. Lyrically I would say my favorite song is "I'll Love You Forever & Other Lies" because it seems like something straight out of a diary that rings so true to many. That just might be my favorite track. I also enjoyed the song, "Memphis" a lot because it is about trying to get over a broken heart and every album needs one great song about that. Vocally, Arrica has this calming voice that makes you want to fall asleep. That meant I had to play each song again so that I could get a better listen! This EP is something I would expect to hear while I am at a cafe, or a song on a television show that is open to indie music, or even the EP to play when you are driving home from work and need to unwind from a long day. I cannot say that Arrica's music is going on my iPod but if you are into very indie folk, than this is for you.
Arrica Rose's new EP, Pretend I'm Fur is available now on iTunes and Amazon.
Desperate Housewives Season Finale - Everybody Says Don‘t & If It‘s Only In Your Head
Susan: What if your daughter could see you now? Is this how you’d want her to see you? As a monster who could murder an innocent child?
Dave’s talk about killing MJ completely freaked me out. The way that Mike found out about Dave’s confession video was just horrible (any way is horrible but the fact that he was getting married - whether he was really going to do that or not on top of this is just terrible). Although the way that Mike left Katherine to try and save his family was just heart wrenching for all parties. Susan’s reaction to Mike’s warning call was perfect. I am so glad that she did not break down in any form. That “perhaps you’ll die” fly song was just perfect to use in the scene but I am sure that is the last song Susan ever wants to sing or hear again. Thankfully, things worked out for the best for Susan, Mike, and MJ. I was pretty sure that MJ was not listening to anything in those headphones and he escaped at the last minute. But when Dave saw his daughter in the car right before he was going to go through with his evil plan, thankfully he let MJ go. Now Dave is in a mental institution, as he should be. We see that Mike married someone and it is up for debate the entire summer if the bride is Katherine or Susan. I definitely want to think that the bride is Susan…but time will only tell. Gabby’s talk to Juanita about the other side of the family was hysterical. The first thing that I thought of when Aunt Connie was nice to Gabby was either she was up to something or she was sick. I did not think that it would be both! This teenager Gabby and Carlos are now responsible for looks like she is trying to break up Gabby and Carlos’ relationship because she cannot have a stable one for herself. I wonder how long this chic is going to be in their lives. Speaking of bad relationships…the real conflict between Bree and Orson is who has a more justifiable reason for doing what they are doing…who is the lesser of two evils. Bree’s agenda was for the best interests of both herself and Orson. Orson’s current agenda only benefits himself. While I understand both parties, I am on Bree’s team although hopefully both can be content in the end. Ah contentment…Lynette has the habit of doing things in such a way where things go her way instead of her husband’s way but in the end Tom finds out and there is the continuous cycle of what we have seen before. I was hoping that this was not the route that would be taken. Thankfully, there was much more in store for the two. Tom wanting to go back to college to study Chinese was an incredibly intelligent decision. It is just too bad that Lynette could not see that before she tried to sabotage the situation. She was so quick to assume the reasoning behind his decision that she did not bother to ask. Although I wonder if Lynette will ever tell Tom what she did and if Tom is even in school, and what the work situation is like at home now. Time will tell! When Lynette went to the doctor’s to make sure she did not have cancer again…once it got closer to the time of the doctor coming in, it hit me that she would most likely be pregnant if she did not have cancer. When you go into a doctor’s office you always come out with something. I did not imagine that it would be twins again! It was great to see Porter and Preston make a small appearance. I wonder what the two have to say about their parents having twins again. Well, it looks like there is a lot to look forward to next season. I can’t wait for the next season to begin!
Gossip Girl Season Finale - The Goodbye Gossip Girl
Blair: You can’t make people love you but you can make them fear you.
I loved the introduction and the season ending with graduation…bittersweet end and incredible drama to start off the summer. It was no surprise that Serena’s mugshot was in the paper and Gossip Girl was going to put everyone on blast. It was however a surprise that Jonathan I believe it was hacked into Gossip Girl’s system. I just didn’t know that Gossip Girl would just keep dropping the gossip back to back at Nate’s party. That was crazy! Did Serena really think that Gossip Girl would show her face? Anyway, Blair’s gift to Serena, her mug shot in a frame was just classic. I loved that. Blair handing off her crown to Little Jay was hysterical. That was probably my favorite moment of the episode. Fashion wise, I really liked Vanessa’s blue and black top near the end of the episode. Who is this new Scott guy that was talking to Vanessa, Dan, and Nate? Whatever trouble he is going to make, I just hope it is Gossip Girl worthy and not just something thrown in to fill space. One thing I am looking forward to is Georgina! Even if she is only going to be in 3 episodes (which is what I am hearing). I jumped up and down when we found out that Georgina is going to NYU and even better, she requested Blair as a room mate. That opens up the door for more drama that I can imagine. Also something that could stir up some good tv since Rufus finally proposed to Lily (which was so sweet and I am so glad that she said yes as opposed to putting it off for some odd reason)…their life as newlyweds of course! More importantly, Rufus might feel that Lily’s world is too much for him, etc… There are many things that can happen so I look forward to seeing how this new family dynamic will be presented. Last, but certainly not the least… I was so thrilled when Chuck finally said I love you to Blair! The song that played, "Season of Love" by Shiny Toy Guns was perfect. One thing is for sure, I cannot wait until Gossip Girl comes back in the fall. There is so much I would like to see come to life from the books and I know there is so much in store for these characters. Until next time, you know you love me.
One Tree Hill Season Finale - Remember Me As a Time of Day
Peyton: You said you would disown me if I left without permission.
The opening song was amazing. I loved that song that was played as well. All of the songs in this episode were amazing and the opening in general was superb. I loved that Peyton named their daughter Sawyer Brooke. It definitely is the most fitting name for their child. Anyway, it was good to see Dan come back. I almost forgot about that old sucker. Peyton was very giving, letting Dan hold her child. I can’t say that I thought she would give in and let him hold her. One thing I was scared that Dan held was a gun. I was hoping that he would not do anything rash since good ol’ Whitey was there giving him the opportunity to do such! Thanks Mark Schwahn for bringing Whitey & Karen into the finale! As soon as I saw Karen, I figured that Peyton and Lucas would leave with her, make a home by her, and that would be their exit off the show. Since that didn’t happen and Lucas and Peyton just drove off…I hope my theory is the one that is explained in the season premiere for their absence. Even though these characters will no longer be main characters on the show, I have a feeling we will see Peyton every now and then. I hope this episode is not the last episode for a Brooke-Peyton scene! As for Lucas…he did the narration in the beginning and the end so I am hoping that Brooke or Haley is the one who will do it next season. Thrilled is the word that I would use to describe what I felt when Brooke was getting her business up and running again in Tree Hill with Millie. Knowing that the character Julian will is a series regular next season makes me automatically now accept him with Brooke. Is that a bad thing? I was not thrilled at all when Victoria once again held information from Brooke by not passing on Julian’s message. Thankfully she gave in and gave her daughter the most inspiring, heartfelt speech near the end. I was so glad when Victoria said, “I’d rather have a daughter than my company.” Victoria’s realization of this was very much needed for the both of them, especially at this point in both of their lives. A big part of Nathan’s life now will be devoted to the NBA! It is about time Nathan joined the NBA! I am so proud of him! The way that Jamie found out that Nathan made it into the NBA was so great - especially since Mouth was the one announcing it. Now that he is in the NBA, I wonder how this will affect the family and their time in Tree Hill. I wonder how everyone’s lives will be affected with Peyton and Lucas out of the mix. Only time will tell. I definitely enjoyed this episode and it felt somewhat like a series finale in a sense but I know that it is not so I am looking forward to what is coming up in the next season.
90210 Season Finale - One Party Can Ruin your Whole Summer
Liam: You are a bitch.
The best part about the introduction was Naomi setting her sister straight about who the leader of the house is. That was disgusting how Jen slept with Liam! I do not see the reasoning behind what she did. While I am glad that Liam called Naomi to tell her he had to talk to her, I hope that he gets the chance to tell Naomi what Jen did even though he is obviously going to be away for awhile. Now it was understandable for Naomi to think that the person who slept with Liam was Annie but to accuse her in front of everyone was just unnecessary. Annie is such a good person! She did not have to help Naomi keep the house clean during Naomi’s party or drive Lily Collins’ character home. Of course, all of the good outweighs the bad, even when the negative is not true. As anyone would do…she ratted out the underage drinking party at Naomi’s right after. Speaking of underage drinking…Harry and Debbie were just hilarious in this episode. Anyway, Ethan seems like he’s got it bad for Silver. I noticed that in the past few episodes but it was definitely made clear in this episode. That makes for a complicated love triangle. Funny how both boys love Silver but I can’t say that Silver loves either of them… do not think that Silver and Dixon are on the same level when it comes to love. The tension between Dixon and Ethan when Dixon confronted Ethan was so real. When you can feel the tension yourself as a viewer, that is good TV. Adrianna’s dream with Brenda and Brenda talking to Ad about adoption was a godsend. I am so glad that Ad went to say goodbye to her daughter. I am also glad that Navid and Ty can now interact in a civil manner. Overall, the finale was exactly what I thought it would be. I can’t say whether or not I will be devoted to this show come fall, but I will definitely tune in for the season 2 premiere. I do remember saying that I watch too many teen shows as is but I just do not think you can ever escape that if you like it, so we’ll see!
Ugly Betty Season Finale - The Curve Ball/The Fall Issue
Betty: Henry is with his dumb girlfriend. Oh stop it, that’s mean.
Wilhelmina and Marc trying to find out why Claire was put in the position that she is in was entertaining. Wilhelmina getting on Mr. Heartly’s ex’s side was a smart move. Willie finding out that there was not only an affair but a baby between Claire and Cal was big scoop! The That is a shame that Wilhelmina threatened blackmail against Claire if she did not step down from her position. Thankfully, Claire had already sorted out her past with the certain parties that were involved so Wilhelmina was the one who was put in a hole in the end. Now when Betty was actually offered an editor position at her dream magazine, I was so thrilled! There was a shocker when Jodie ended up taking Betty’s position instead! How terrible! Although one has to wonder what Betty getting the job would have meant for Mode and what would happen with certain story lines and characters. Jodi can bet Betty will not be helping her get with Marc now! Rachel Dratch as a special guest was fun to see. Her first character’s death opened the door for Betty getting a job as feature editor (a little too easily if you ask me). Although with Wilhelmina promoting Marc and Marc dismissing Vogue’s offer but Daniel promoting Betty as well gave room for some interesting competition. Surprisingly, Amanda’s advice (yes, she is smarter when she is drunk) led both to resign from Mode. I was thrilled that Betty got the job as feature editor, however I was unhappy that Matt broke up with Betty and said that he was her new boss. That is just cruel. Of course I cannot wait to see how this situation is resolved. The double date with Henry only made it harder for Betty to let go of him and never should have happened. Hearing Betty’s thoughts during the double date was just perfect! I loved every moment of that. I really wanted Betty to tell Matt about the Henry kiss before he dumped her over Henry. Ah well. Anyway, I loved the moment early in part one when Amanda said the painting of Betty was like looking at the butt of Satan. This was probably the funniest thing she has said in the past few episodes! Also in part one, the Betty montage with “Boom Boom Pow” by Black Eyed Peas was great. Having Elisabeth and Joy from The View make guest appearances as themselves was great! Regarding the actual award show in part two, I had a feeling that Molly was going to pass away during her nap that she was supposed to wake up to and head to the awards afterwards. So that was no surprise. Hopefully his pain over this does not eventually cost him his job but I would not be surprised. I am looking forward to so much in the next season. I want Betty to be with Matt or someone else that she is completely upfront and honest with. I want both Betty and Marc to have great jobs. I want to see more of Wilhelmina the human being and not the monster because we don’t see enough of that. I want to know who Wilhelmina was so surprised to see! I want the next season to be full of surprises, not so predictable. I expect a lot for next season and I really do not think any of the above is too much to handle so only time will tell! This was a nice season finale!
Narrator: For endings, as it is known are where we begin.
The introduction focused on Lily and was not as entertaining as the past two episodes but still entertaining. I enjoyed seeing everyone celebrate Chuck’s half birthday. I knew that Chuck and the gang would be at the same place that Lily and Vivian went to celebrate Chuck’s half birthday and there would be a case to solve from there. I never could have imagined what the case would be. It took me off guard how one of Lily and Vivian’s enemies was eaten by a shark and then the two sisters took on their role their enemy once had. The gang touching the murdered enemy was entertaining since Chuck told off the victim who bad mouthed Lily & Vivian. When Lily & Vivian came in to ask Olive about their costumes, I laughed so much when Olive talked in AIM and Emerson said, “She got a case of the dumb a-s-s.” The mystery of who the murderer was did not last long. I guess that is because it was more about Lily and Vivian’s comeback. The big questions were…would they pull it off and would they go on the road in Europe? Apparently the first question did not matter since no one was focused on their performance, moreso them not being murdered during the performance and since Vivian found out what Lily did. It is great to know that Lily & Vivian ended up going on two worldwide tours…even better was the last 4 minutes of the episode where everything wrapped up so nicely! The Lily, Vivian, and Chcuk reunion was just spectacular, even though it was seen for just a moment. Emerson’s daughter coming to him was long over due and another great moment. It was great to see special guests, David Arquette and Michael McDonald whom I loved on Mad TV (especially in the Lorraine skits). It was also great to see Wilson Cruz share the small screen with Kristin Chenoweth. The end of Pushing Daisies did not come up short in any way and I am so happy to say that I am a fan of Pushing Daisies. Best of luck in the comic series.
We all know that Kristin Chenoweth, John Lloyd Young, and Cheyenne Jackson will make guest appearances on Glee…but who else should make an appearance on Glee? Here's a short list of who I think should appear on Glee.
I recently sat down to watch the film, The Graduates which played at a number of film festivals last year. This independent comedy was shot on location in Ocean City, Maryland. The film is about four friends who head to the beach to celebrate high school graduation. While everyone has a good time partying, the guys learn that there's more to life than where they all are presently aka they learn to grow up. That's what coming of age films are all about right? No, not usually. That is why I like this film, these guys are not only characters that can portray real people but they grow up by the end of the film. None of the typical stereotypical characters you see in mainstream teen movies are overplayed in this film. Of the four main guys, 2 are brothers and they are experiencing family issues, specifically their parents divorce. The family dynamic between the brothers was portrayed so real, I enjoyed seeing that. I have two favorite moments. One favorite moment is when one of the guys asked the girl he was making out with to see her ID. The other favorite moment is when one of the guys was peeved that people weren't taking off their shoes when they were in his house. The only fault that I have with the film is that there are way too many sexual references, as with many teen films. Also, one of the girls throwing up I could have done without. Aside from that, all of the actors are very good. The directing is remarkable. Ryan Gielen definitely has a great future in directing, that is for sure. I would recommend this to be a fun movie to watch when you and your friends are on your way to the beach this summer.
(ABC) - Single-handedly, housewives accomplish astonishing things... and together, watch out. In the seaside village of Eastwick, this might just be evidence of their inner-witch rising to the surface. Until today, Roxanne, Kat and Joanna didn't get along because of their preconceived notions of each other. Roxanne was the flaky artist, Kat was a doormat wife and mom, and Joanna the uptight local reporter. But after a weird encounter in the park coupled with a few margaritas, these three have suddenly become fast friends. Now, a mysterious stranger's arrival in town will bring them even closer and test them in ways they'd never imagined. Daryl Van Horne is an irresistible package of wealth, charisma and bad boy sex appeal. If he's not buying up a local business, he's attempting to seduce one (or all) of these ladies, physically and professionally. What's even more dangerous, he's unleashing their supernatural powers. But by igniting their heart's desires, he might just be opening Pandora's box. This small New England town will be turned upside down by these witches coming into their own. Though bad for a few locals, it's still the best thing to happen in Eastwick in centuries.
Cast: Rebecca Romijn, Lindsay Price, Jamie Ray Newman, Paul Gross, Sara Rue, Veronica Cartwright, Johann Urb, Jon Bernthal, Ashley Benson
Flash Forward - Thursdays 8/7c
(ABC) - What if you saw your future 6 months from now? A glimpse of where you will be and who you will be with. Would you look forward to what was coming...or would you try to stop it? A mysterious global event causes everyone to black out simultaneously for two minutes and seventeen seconds, and each person sees a glimpse of their lives six months from now. When they wake up, everyone is left wondering if what they saw will actually happen. Los Angeles FBI Agent Mark Benford (Joseph Fiennes) is desperate to uncover why this happened and who or what is behind it. And he's not the only one. Before long, everyone starts asking, "What did you see?" As Mark and his team struggle to figure out what caused this bizarre event, they begin to piece together the future by creating a huge database of people's flash forwards from all over the world - The Mosaic Collective. No one knows what these flash forwards mean or exactly what the future really holds. But it is clear that across the globe people who've never met will somehow be intimately connected and will have an impact on each other's lives in the next six months. Some will fear what's coming, others excited; but not a single person will be unaffected.
Cast: Joseph Fiennes, John Cho, Jack Davenport, Sonya Walger, Courtney B. Vance, Brian O'Byrne, Christine Woods, Zachary Knighton, Peyton List
V - Coming Soon
(ABC) - Today, the world woke up to find spaceships over every major city. The Visitors claim to have come in peace, bringing gifts of medical miracles and technological breakthroughs. They promise to do no harm. They're lying. Most people believe the aliens have arrived just when we needed them most. We're eager to embrace their generous offers of help, but while tracking a terrorist cell, Homeland Security agent Erica Evans stumbles upon something far more sinister. Erica discovers that the aliens have plans to infiltrate our governments and businesses, planting seeds for their plot to control mankind. Convincing anyone of the truth will be impossible because the Visitors have two powerful weapons. First, they've given the people faith with their reassuring presence and gifts. Second, they've rallied our youth. Thousands of teens, including Erica's son, have been recruited as 'Peace Ambassadors' but they're actually serving as unwitting spies. When Erica gets thrust into the resistance movement, she'll have to balance her covert activities with her job and her role as a mother, fighting to protect her son Tyler - even as he joins forces with the enemy.
Cast: Elizabeth Mitchell as Erica Evans, Morris Chestnut as Ryan Nichols, Joel Gretsch as Father Jack Landry, Lourdes Benedicto as Valerie Stevens, Logan Huffman as Tyler Evans, Laura Vandervoort as Lisa, with Morena Baccarin as Anna and Scott Wolf as Chad Decker.
(CBS) - THREE RIVERS is a medical drama that goes inside the emotionally complex lives of organ donors, the recipients and the surgeons at the preeminent transplant hospital in the country where every moment counts. However, dealing with donor families in their darkest hour and managing the fears and concerns of apprehensive recipients takes much more than just a sharp scalpel. Leading the elite team is Dr. Andy Yablonski (Alex O'Loughlin), the highly-skilled workaholic lead organ transplant surgeon, whose good-natured personality and sarcastic wit makes him popular with his patients and colleagues. His colleagues include Dr. Miranda Foster (Katherine Moennig), a surgical fellow with a rebellious streak and fiery temper who strives to live up to her deceased father's excellent surgical reputation; Dr. David Lee (Daniel Henney), a womanizing surgical resident who's broken as many hearts as he's replaced; Ryan Abbott (Christopher J. Hanke), the inexperienced new transplant coordinator who arranges the intricately choreographed process of quickly and carefully transporting organs from donor to patient; Dr. Sophia Jordan (Julia Ormond), the head of surgery and a dedicated medical professional; and Pam Acosta (Justina Machado), Andy's no-nonsense operating assistant and best friend. In this high stakes arena, in which every case is a race against the clock, these tenacious surgeons and medical professionals are the last hope for their patients.
Cast: - Alex O'Loughlin, Katherine Moennig, Julia Ormond, Daniel Henney, Justina Machado, Christopher Hanke, Joaquim De Almeida
(The CW) - Four months after the tragic car accident that killed their parents, 17-year-old Elena Gilbert (Nina Dobrev, “DeGrassi: The Next Generation”) and her 15-year-old brother, Jeremy (Steven R. McQueen, “Everwood”) are still trying to cope with their grief and move on with their lives. Elena has always been the star student; beautiful, popular and involved with school and friends, but now she finds herself struggling to hide her sadness from the world. As the school year begins, Elena and her friends are fascinated by a handsome and mysterious new student, Stefan Salvatore (Paul Wesley, “Army Wives”). Stefan and Elena are immediately drawn to one another, and Elena has no way of knowing that Stefan is a centuries-old vampire, struggling to live peacefully among humans, while his brother Damon (Ian Somerhalder, “Lost”) is the embodiment of vampire violence and brutality. Now these two vampire brothers - one good, one evil - are at war for Elena’s soul and for the souls of her friends, family and all the residents of the small town of Mystic Falls, Virginia. Based on the series of books by L. J. Smith, THE VAMPIRE DIARIES is from Alloy Entertainment and Bonanza Productions Inc in association with Warner Bros. Television and CBS Television Studios.
(Fox) - From Ryan Murphy, the creator of "Nip/Tuck" and "Popular," comes GLEE, a one-hour musical comedy that follows an optimistic high school teacher as he tries to transform the school's Glee Club and inspire a group of ragtag performers to make it to the biggest competition of them all: Nationals. McKinley High School's Glee Club used to be at the top of the show choir world, but years later, a series of scandals have turned it into a haven for misfits and social outcasts. WILL SCHUESTER (Matthew Morrison, Broadway's "Hairspray"), a young optimistic teacher, has offered to take on the Herculean task of restoring McKinley's Glee Club to its former glory with the help of fellow teacher EMMA PILLSBURY (Jayma Mays, "Ugly Betty"). It's a tall order when the brightest stars of the pitch-imperfect club include KURT (Chris Colfer), a nerdy soprano with a flair for the dramatic; MERCEDES (Amber Riley), a dynamic diva-in-training who refuses to sing back-up; ARTY (Kevin McHale, "Zoey 101"), a geeky guitarist who spends more time avoiding bullies than chasing girls; and TINA (Jenna Ushkowitz, "Spring Awakening"), an awkward girl who needs to suppress her stutter before she can take center stage. Will's only hope lies with two true talents: RACHEL BERRY (Lea Michele, "Spring Awakening"), a perfectionist firecracker who is convinced that show choir is her ticket to stardom; and FINN HUDSON (Cory Monteith, "Kyle XY"), the popular high school quarterback with movie star looks and a Motown voice who must protect his reputation with his holier-than-thou girlfriend, QUINN (Dianna Agron), and his arrogant teammate, PUCK (Mark Salling). Driven by his secret past, Will is determined to do whatever it takes to make Glee great again, even though everyone around him thinks he's nuts. He's out to prove them all wrong - from his tough-as-nails wife TERRI SCHUESTER (Jessalyn Gilsig, "Nip/Tuck") to McKinley's cheerleading coach SUE SYLVESTER (guest star Jane Lynch, "Best In Show," "Role Models") to an ?ber-hip world that thinks jazz hands and sequined tuxedos litter the road to infamy rather than pave the way to Hollywood dreams.
Cast: Matthew Morrison, Jayma Mays, Jessalyn Gilsig, Lea Michele, Cory Monteith, Chris Colfer, Amber Riley, Kevin McHale, Jenna Ushkowitz, Dianna Agron, Mark Salling, Jane Lynch
(NBC) - In the aftermath of a global event that devastates the world's infrastructures, a small band of survivors strives to rebuild society and unravel the mysteries of why the event took place and what the future has in store. Told from the point of view of an eclectic group of neighbors in a Van Nuys, California apartment building, this journey of survival will show us that hope is found in the smallest of victories and heroes are born every day.
Cast: David Lyons, Julie Gonzalo, Adam Campbell, Carly Pope, Thekla Reuten, Derek Mio, Addison J. Timlin, Catherine Dent, April Grace, Xander Berkeley
Check out a preview of the new CBS drama, Three Rivers which will premiere this fall. Actor, Alex O'Loughlin is the star of the show. Check out my interview with Alex here.
(CBS) THREE RIVERS is a medical drama that goes inside the emotionally complex lives of organ donors, the recipients and the surgeons at the preeminent transplant hospital in the country where every moment counts. However, dealing with donor families in their darkest hour and managing the fears and concerns of apprehensive recipients takes much more than just a sharp scalpel.
The CW: Hitched or Ditched - Tuesday, May 26, 2009 9/8c (The CW) - "Hitched or Ditched" is a one-hour reality show focusing on couples who are in long-term relationships but have not yet taken that big leap into marriage. Nominated by a friend who believes it's either time for the couple to tie to the knot or break up, each episode features a different couple who accept their friend's proposition to set a wedding date in one week’s time.
Throughout the week leading up to the big day, the couple is put through a series of personalized exercises that test their relationship, all while planning their dream wedding. They may have to confront their problems ranging from mending relationships with future in-laws to dealing with jealousy issues. When the wedding day arrives, the couple will make the final decision - will they tie the knot or call the whole thing off? Viewers will witness every emotional milestone as the couple decides if it's time to get "Hitched or Ditched." The series is hosted by Tanya McQueen ("Extreme Make-Over Home Edition").
Mental - Tuesday, May 26, 2009 9/8c (Fox) - When DR. JACK GALLAGHER (Chris Vance, “Prison Break”), a dynamic and radically unorthodox psychiatrist, is named Director of Mental Health Services at a Los Angeles hospital, his unconventional style leads some of his new colleagues to believe he may be as unstable as his patients.
MENTAL is a medical drama that explores the complexities of the human mind as never before. To Jack, each case is a puzzle to be solved. Confronted with each patient’s crisis, including unknown, misunderstood, and even misdiagnosed conditions, Jack must plunge inside the mind of his patients long enough to uncover what might be the key to their long-term recovery, often times working against the clock and his patients’ wishes. Ever the rebel, Jack insists on getting to the root of his patients’ illnesses by exploring first who they are as human beings, but as he fights to help his patients quickly, he must often work within only a legal 72-hour hold to determine a diagnosis.
Jack must reconcile his effective, yet highly unconventional practices with his conservative boss, hospital administrator NORA SKOFF (Annabella Sciorra, “The Sopranos”), who puts her own reputation on the line by hiring him. Unfortunately, his colleagues remain resistant to his treatment methods, including dedicated psychiatrist DR. VERONICA HAYDEN-JONES (Jacqueline McKenzie, “The 4400”), who was passed over for Jack’s position, and DR. CARL BELLE (Derek Webster, “CSI: Miami”), a master politician with a polished exterior who is dedicated to Jack’s downfall.
As seen through the eyes of doctors and patients who, as Jack points out, have more in common than they’re willing to admit, the series also features a team of doctors and hospital staff who work closely together to delve into the mysteries, oddities and wonders of the human brain, including first-year resident DR. ARTURO SUAREZ (Nicholas Gonzalez, “Brothers and Sisters”), young and cocky, but good at his job, he actually gets a charge out of Jack’s techniques; DR. CHLOE ARTIS (Marisa Ramirez, “The Young and the Restless”), drop-dead gorgeous with an attitude and very strong opinions, she’s passing time in a residency she feels is beneath her until Jack opens her mind to the inspirational benefits of psychiatry; and MALCOLM DARIUS WASHINGTON (Edwin Hodge, “Invasion”), a nurse who pulled himself out of the impoverished neighborhood he grew up in to pursue his medical career.
Cast: Chris Vance, Annabella Sciorra, Jacqueline McKenzie, Derek Webster, Nicholas Gonzalez, Marisa Ramirez, Edwin Hodge
NBC: The Listener - Friday, June 4, 2009 10/9c (NBC) - "The Listener" centers on Toby Logan (Craig Olejnik, "The Timekeeper"), a 25-year-old paramedic who has a big secret -- he's a telepath. Until now, Toby kept his ability hidden, exploring its possibilities only with his longtime mentor and confidant, Dr. Ray Mercer (Colm Feore, "24: Redemption"). As he makes the rounds with his energetic paramedic partner "Oz" Bey (Ennis Esmer, "Young People F*#king"), "The Listener" follows Toby as he tries to help people in crisis, and in the process unravel the truth about his past. While his professional life is in check, Toby's personal life could use its own rescue. And with the help of Detective Charlie Marks (Lisa Marcos, "Diary of a Mad Black Woman") and his E.R. doctor/ex-girlfriend Olivia Fawcett (Mylène Dinh-Robic, "Da Vinci's City Hall"), Toby realizes his gift can help others.
Cast: Craig Olejnik, Ennis Esmer, Lisa Marcos, Mylène Dinh-Robic, Colm Feore, Anthony Lemke, Arnold Pinnock
Meteor - Sundays July 12th & 19th 9/8c (Miniseries) (NBC) - Two massive rocks -- tumbling debris older than the solar system itself -- collide in space. The course has been altered. The target is Earth. In a remote observatory, Dr. Lehman (Emmy winner Christopher Lloyd, Back to the Future), discovers a meteor approximately three times the size of Mount Everest barreling its way towards Earth. His devoted young assistant Imogene O'Neill (Marla Sokoloff, The Practice) feverishly types in the coordinates only to find the previously identified meteor named Kassandra is headed their way. It's only the beginning of their troubles as showers of smaller meteorites begin to lay waste to major cities around the globe.
The impending disaster brings out the best and the worst sides in people as they cope by either lending a helping hand or taking advantage of the situation. In a small California town, a police chief (Golden Globe nominee Stacy Keach, Prison Break) struggles to calm a panicky group of citizens. Miles away, his son Jack, a detective (Golden Globe nominee Billy Campbell, Once and Again), finds himself caught in the middle of the most difficult arrest of his career with the ill-timed transfer of a very dangerous psychopath named Stark (Michael Rooker, JFK). Then there's the skeptical Dr. Chetwyn (Emmy and Golden Globe nominee Jason Alexander, Seinfeld) who may be the only chance Lehman and O'Neill have to get their findings to the proper authorities in time to deflect Kassandra.
Cast: Stacy Keach, Billy Campbell, Marla Sokoloff, Michael Rooker, Jason Alexander
The Storm - Sundays July 26th & August 2nd 10/9c (Miniseries) (NBC) - Billionaire Robert Terrell (Golden Globe and Emmy nominee Treat Williams, Everwood) has fulfilled a lifelong obsession and made history with "weather creation" technology though his Atmospheric Research Institute. But during a test run, a blast of energy is sent into the ionosphere with unexpected results. The experiments hurtle the planet towards destruction -- hurricanes change course, winds go instantly from hot to cold, torrential rains bring regions to a standstill, and buildings crumble into ruins under explosive lightning storms. It's only the beginning.
Only one scientist, Dr. Jonathan Kirk (James Van Der Beek, Dawson's Creek), steps forward to demand that the system be terminated. Terrell is undeterred and continues to push his team to move forward. His motives for the initially philanthropic technology are in truth far more opportunistic. With government cohort, Army General Braxton (David James Elliott, JAG), Terrell envisions the technology as a key military weapon to ensure superpower status.
Realizing he's powerless to stop the project by himself, Kirk contacts news reporter Danni Wilson (Teri Polo, Meet the Parents) with plans to expose Terrell and explain the catastrophic weather to a bewildered and frightened world. It's a task that won't come easy, as Kirk quickly discovers the motives and loyalties of authorities are not in his favor. As devastating and extreme weather events hammer down on every corner of the earth, it will be a race against time to shut down the system before the planet is taken to edge of extinction.
Cast: James Van Der Beek, David James Elliott, Teri Polo, John Larroquette, Luke Perry, Marisol Nichols
ABC Family: Make It Or Break It - Monday, June 22, 2009 9/8 c (ABC Family) - "Make It or Break It" is a one-hour scripted drama, created and written by Holly Sorensen. Sorenson and Paul Stupin ("In Plain Sight") serve as executive producers. The pilot was directed by Steve Miner ("Wildfire," "Dawson's Creek"). Set in the world of competitive gymnastics, "Make It or Break It" follows a group of teen Olympic hopefuls as they train and prepare for their day in the spotlight.
Cast: Chelsea Hobbs, Peri Gilpin, Candace Cameron Bure, Ayla Kell, Josie Loren, Cassie Scerbo, Zachary Burr Abel
TNT: HawthoRNe - Tuesday, June 16, 2009 9/8c (TNT) - Jada Pinkett Smith (The Women, The Matrix trilogy) is the latest talented actress to join TNT's line-up of strong, complex female characters, following in the footsteps of Kyra Sedgwick on The Closer and Holly Hunter of Saving Grace. In this character-driven medical drama, Pinkett Smith plays Christina Hawthorne, a compassionate and headstrong Chief Nursing Officer heading up a group of dedicated nurses at Richmond Trinity Hospital who spend long days and nights on the hospital's front lines. Hawthorne is the kind of nurse you want on your side when you or someone you love is in the hospital. She is the kind of nurse who fights for her patients and doesn't let them slip through the cracks. When necessary, she takes on doctors and administrators who are overworked, distracted or just unable to see the human being behind the hospital chart.
Joining Pinkett Smith in HAWTHORNE is Michael Vartan (Alias) as Dr. Tom Wakefield, the oncologist who treated Christina's husband and who serves as director of medicine for the hospital. The cast also includes Suleka Mathew (Men in Trees) as Bobbie Jackson, a fellow nurse and one of Hawthorne's best friends; David Julian Hirsh (Lovebites) as Ray Stein, a nurse struggling with being accepted in a female-dominated profession; Christina Moore (90210) as Candy Sullivan, a nurse with a unique sense of duty; and Hannah Hodson (TNT's The Ron Clark Story) as Camille, Hawthorne's daughter. In addition, special guest star Joanna Cassidy (Six Feet Under) portrays Amanda, Hawthorne’s mother-in-law, who also happens to be a member of the hospital board.
Cast: Jada Pinkett Smith, Michael Vartan, David Julian Hirsh, Christina Moore, Hannah Hodson, Suleka Mathew
Nurse Jackie - Monday June 8, 2009 10:30/9:30c (Showtime) - "Nurse Jackie" is a half-hour dark comedy that is at turns wicked, heartbreaking and funny. Edie Falco stars as the title character Jackie O'Hurley, a strong-willed and brilliant -- but very flawed -- emergency room nurse in a complicated New York City hospital. A lapsed Catholic with an occasional weakness for Vicodin and Adderall to get her through the days, Jackie keeps the hospital balanced with her own kind of justice. Every day is a high wire act of juggling patients, doctors, fellow nurses and her own indiscretions.
Cast: Edie Falco, Eve Best, Peter Facinelli, Paul Schulze, Haaz Sleiman, Merritt Wever
Created by Ryan Murph (NIP/TUCK), Glee is an incredible story following Spanish teacher, Will Schuester (Matthew Morrison) who takes over the glee club in hopes of taking the club to the Nationals. The club is filled with many dynamic characters, all of whom I just loved. Every character is unique and stands out. I look forward to more character development. The cast is phenomenal and I cannot name a more talented cast of singers and actors on television today. The main focus of those joining the glee club was put on little miss diva, Rachel (Lea Michele) and quarterback of the football team, Finn (Cory Monteith). I do not know if these two characters will become a serious item in the future but that is where it looks like things are heading. Not to be out done, the glee club rivals are the cheerleaders aka the “Cheerios.” Quinn is the leader of this pack. She is also the president of the celibacy club which I found was quite the joke after seeing this character.
Aside from taking over the glee club, Will has a wife, Terri (Jessalyn Gilsig) who believes that she is pregnant...but it does not look like Will is as happy in the relationship as Terri. We'll see what comes of these two. Now this show is definitely a laugh-out-loud comedy. The dialogue is so witty and very well written. As a big fan of musicals and music in general, I am looking forward to the songs that Glee will cover. There were many guest stars, if you blinked you could have missed them! I definitely cannot wait to until this musical comedy comes out in the fall on FOX. It is definitely worth the wait and all of the hype it will get over the summer.
Main Characters/Cast: Will Schuester (Matthew Morrison) Terri (Jessalyn Gilsig) Rachel (Lea Michele) Finn (Cory Monteith) Emma (Jayma Mays) Tina (Jenna Ushkowitz) Mercedes (Amber Riley) Kurt (Chris Colfer) Quinn (Dianna Agron) Artie (Kevin Mchale) Puck (Mark Salling)
The Pilot used portions of 14 songs, including:
"On My Own" Les Misérables - (Talk about full circle for Lea Michele!) “Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat” Guys and Dolls "You're the One That I Want" Grease “I Kissed a Girl” Katy Perry “Rehab” Amy Winehouse "Leaving on a Jet Plane" John Denver “Don’t Stop Believin’” Journey “Respect” Aretha Franklin
The Pilot will become available on Hulu on May 20th for 21 days. For more Glee, go to Fox.
Jodi Picoult's book, My Sister's Keeper has been made into a feature film which will release on June 26, 2009 and below is the trailer for the film and the new cover of the book to relate to the film.
Jodi is currently researching for her 2011 book, which explores gay rights. I am so curious to know what all of her research will lead to! For more Jodi, click here.
On June 8, 2009, Weeds will premiere its 5th Season. To celebrate the new season, I want to share my interview with Weeds Actor, Jack Stehlin. As you read the interview, you may notice that I also talk a lot about theatre with Jack. I hope that if you are in Southern California, you get to see Jack on the stage soon. Whether or not you get to see Jack on stage, make sure you tune into Weeds on June 8th at 10pm EST.
So what are some similarities and differences between yourself and your character on Weeds? One of the things that I can relate to is that he has a strong desire for the things that he wants. He is definitely committed to what he does. I feel like we both are passionate people. His values are different than mine. I do understand what it is like to be torn between what might be thought of as right and wrong and trying to make your way through it as he does. There is nothing cliché about Roy. He is surprising, not at all predictable. I would like to think that there is a part of that in me.
Where would you like to see your character go? At Weeds they are very secretive about what is going to happen next. You can never predict it. There is nothing about my character that at the beginning of this journey I would have guessed would happened. It has been a total surprise. I started as a one time guest star to be the boss of a character that was on his way out. So for me everything has been surprising since right now we are shooting our 4th episode (of 13) for the 5th Season.
Do you have a favorite episode or storyline of Weeds? They are all terrific of course. I really enjoyed last year though. The show became really risky. Nancy (Mary-Louise Parker) started to get involved in some dangerous things. It went from fun and clever and nutty to all of that but turning a bit dark and dangerous. I thought that was really cool the way the show has turned.
If you were not your character, what other character do you think you would be? It seems like only the actors that are these characters can be those characters, you know? The characters all seem so specifically written for the actors. I love Andy, played by Justin Kirk. I think that is a really interesting character.
Would you say there are a lot of re-writes? Oh yeah, there are a lot of re-writes. We can tell by the color of the pages by the time we get ready to shoot. They are vigorous with the writing, up to the very day of shooting. The writing staff is on fire.
Last year you appeared in an episode of Monk. Can we expect to see you again? I don't know. I played a lawyer on Monk and you can always hope that they would need a lawyer again. There are no plans for it at this time but it could happen.
How far in advance do you get the scripts before you shoot? Sometimes we get them a week before we shoot and sometimes we get them the day before we shoot. Of course I enjoy them a week before (laughs) but challenging as it is, when you are so used to your character, you get into the groove of things.
How long did it take for you to really get comfortable with your character? I would say in the second season about 2-3 episodes in. Rolin Jones is a writer on the show and he was in my theatre company before the show. I thank him because he understood the way the lines would feel for me and he really knew how to connect me with my character.
You attended The Julliard School but have you been back to be a guest speaker of some sort? I have never been back in that way. I was back in NY this past fall when my Theatre company opened a play Off-Broadway. Of course it is very different now. I graduated from Julliard in '83 and there is a whole new gang there now. For the last 15 years I have been on the West Coast and very rarely have come back to the East Coast. About 10 years ago when I married my wife and we had our first daughter, I started to stop going to NY to do plays since I wanted to be home. I was on the road for years and years after Julliard and working on plays in NY. The plays in Central Park was the most fun you can ever imagine.
But is it out of the question to say you wouldn't go back to NY for a play? I would love to go back with the right play. I would like to go back to Broadway in an exciting part. Now that my family is settled it i snot totally out of the question. The more exciting the part, the more attractive going back would seem. SO it is definitely possible.
Do you have a dream role? I am about to embark on a play that I have wanted to do for a long time. It's a play called The Three Sisters and I am playing Vershinin. With our theatre company, Circus Theatricals at The Odyssey Theatre, I am able to choose a play that I want to do twice a year. Twice a year, I ask myself this question and then I pick my plays. There is a part that I have always held out on and thought I should do it because it is infamously difficult and that is Brutus in Julius Caesar. I am going to be challenging myself in that role. There is something really fascinating about that part and I would like to try it.
Do you have a favorite Shakespeare play? I have been lucky to play most of the big ones. Hamlet deserves all of the credit it gets for being such a great part. That was a wonderful part. That was a wonderful play. Richard III...I connected to Richard III. I try to find the heart. People usually behave badly because they are hurting so I try to find out where their heart is and why they are so hurt. Richard III was a tremendous experience.
Are there any musicals/plays in NY that you would like to do with your theatre company? I love Spring Awakening. That was extraordinary. Hunter Parrish was the lead when I saw it. He did a great job. He is a terrific actor.
Do you find a nice mixture between the theatre fans and Weeds fans There is a nice mixture, yes. I have noticed that a lot of the people that come to the plays are aware of Weeds. I think Weeds has a very sophisticated audience that enjoy something to think about. That goes hand in hand with people who enjoy theatre.
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