TV Week in Review

*Reviews May Contain Spoilers*

One Tree Hill - The Last Day of Our Acquaintance



Haley's Mom: The question is, "How long will it take for you to love yourself?"

What an incredibly emotional episode. Watching the final moments of Haley's mother's life was heartbreaking and yet equally heartwarming, especially with Taylor coming to say goodbye to her dying mother. Jamie has experienced quite a lot of death for his age, it would be interesting to really get inside his head to feel what he feels and think what he thinks. Though, within this episode...it was hard holding back tears as Taylor spoke with her mother about being a disappointment and if viewers haven't shed a tear at this point, the family releasing the ashes will definitely bring you to that moment. Everything about this storyline was written and acted so well, so tastefully and carefully crafted. It was a very powerful episode but not only because of death but also love...Seeing Julian and Brooke back together after Brooke made a fool of herself (having assumed the worst with Julian and Alex) was a moment many fans have been waiting for, since it has been said before from various characters in various episodes that these two were going to work out. Brooke telling Julian that her doubt wasn't so much about her trust with him but her jealousy because of her love for him...that was the sweetest line probably in the entire season between these two. The question now is, how soon until an engagement? Also, how soon until Alex finds someone (aside from Alex who is also with Brooke's mom - which I am not a fan of) to be with so that she is not head over heels for Julian? Will Alex's co-star release the sex tape and if so, how will it affect her career and personal life...and which one means more to Alex? Lastly, Mouth and Lauren kissing right before Skills walked into the apartment was a moment that began so high and immediately the spark came back down. What will Mouth and Lauren do about this new relationship of theirs? This was not only a very emotional episode but in the other story lines, so many questions arose from the scenes shown and these scenes have created great anticipation to see what happens next. I haven't been this interested in what's next in quite some time, so fabulous job writing this episode and looking forward to the last few episodes of the season.

Caprica - There Is Another Sky



Tamara: I'm awake.

What a thrilling episode this turned out to be. Tamara driven, she tries to get out of the virtual world and faces the reality that she has no body in the real world to get back to. Unfortunately, it takes playing a game with her new sidekick to come to face the truth. Though with Tamara now in New Cap City, and ultimately running the streets in the city since she found out about herself being invincible...how will that affect the choices she makes in the future and her father if he makes it into this virtual world (whether through Tamara's sidekick or Daniel)? Speaking of Daniel, it seemed awfully hypocritical and along the lines of back stabbing when he presented the cylon which is Zoe 2.0 as a possible race of slaves and then went as far as forcing the cylon to rip off its/her arm. So Zoe 2.0 is without an arm? But we've seen Tamara heal so can Zoe heal even if her cylon form is still without an arm? Why did Zoe 2.0 obey Daniel's request? Did she know that Daniel's job was on the line in that meeting? This episode posed so many questions and that's not all. Yes, it was much needed for Willie and Joseph to (traditionally) have closure with the deaths (even if it took Sam to do it), but will Joseph live for Tamara or will he live in the present reality with his son? What is more important to him? Will it come to that - Joseph immersed in virtual reality and Willie immersed in his culture through Sam? So many questions! Fabulous writing, incredibly astonishing virtual worlds, and this is only the beginning. My only concern is that the story lines are more loosely connected than tightly connected at this point and hopefully there is a middle ground found...because based on what has been seen in the first few episodes, there is an abundant amount of directions to take this show. If the writing continues to impress, which it seems it will, Season 1 in its entirety will be one frakking roller coaster.

Kathy Griffin Talks Law & Order: Special Victims Unit

Watch Kathy Griffin talk about her A-list moment on SVU in her D-list life in this new NBC video clip!



"P.C." airs Wednesday at 9/8c on NBC.

DVD Review: Everybody's Fine

Everybody's Fine, a drama about a recently retired widower who makes an impromptu cross-country pilgrimage that reveals a host of family secrets, releases on DVD & Blu-ray tomorrow.



Release Date: February 23, 2010
Run Time: 100 minutes
Rated: PG-13

Everybody’s Fine is a bittersweet reminder of the lengths people go to protect those they love. A finely drawn depiction of a family defined by the things they don’t tell each other, Everybody’s Fine stars two-time Academy Award® winner Robert De Niro (Best Supporting Actor, The Godfather Part II, 1974 and Best Actor, Raging Bull, 1980) as the patriarch of the far flung Goode clan. In one of the most moving portrayals of his storied career, De Niro leads an award winning ensemble that includes Drew Barrymore (He’s Just Not That Into You, Whip It), Kate Beckinsale (the Underworld Franchise, Pearl Harbor) and Sam Rockwell (G-Force, Frost/Nixon). Critics including Karen Durbin of Elle have praised the film’s “First-rate performances,” while Pete Hammond of Box Office Magazine singles out De Niro for his “Wonderful, award worthy work.”

Everybody’s Fine is a straight up drama, not a heartfelt dramedy as one would be made to believe. In fact, this film is the last film anybody should watch around the holidays as it is quite emotionally draining. Viewers watch Frank, a retired widower who is sick attempt to visit and enjoy a stay with each of his daughters and sons who are all avoiding him because of the secrets that they hold. As this happens in reality plenty of times, the communication among the family has been distanced after the death of Frank’s wife, therefore forming a very disconnected family and somewhat predictable story line here on out. The children, all grown adults try to present a perfect life as to not disappoint their father as Frank is trying to appreciate the present but finds himself connecting more to the memories of his children at a young age. Both are presented well, especially the latter. My issue with the first mention is that all but one, Frank’s daughter seems to be thrilled to see her father. This makes for complex characters all around but unlikable characters for the most part. This makes Everybody’s Fine quite simply unmemorable. Nobody is fine and nothing is entertaining. It’s like watching all of the dull parts of your life or the life of someone that you know. If you gravitate towards films that have a dry tone, then this film will be fine for you. Otherwise, I would not recommend that you take the time out to watch Everybody’s Fine…because frankly, you won’t be fine with the time that you wasted.



Bonus Features:

The Making of Paul McCartney’s “(I Want To) Come Home” (9:47)- In this feature, Paul first discusses in the recording studio how he became involved in the project as we see Paul explaining to the orchestra the project. It's quite comedic, as Paul has a great sense of humor and it is also very inspiring as Paul discusses how he made the song his own and keeping the simplicity of the song musically. Viewers see Paul recording in the studio as well as the orchestra. This documents the making of McCartney's “(I Want To) Come Home” very well, as we get much more of a glimpse into the making of this project, so Paul McCartney fans will appreciate this feature very much.

Deleted and Extended Scenes - There are 4 deleted scenes and 3 extended scenes. The first is "Book of Directions" (55 seconds) and it is such a sweet scene that I would have definitely liked to have seen in this film. Bonding with strangers, there is nothing like it. This scene portrayed it so well. The next is an extended version of the scene, "An Artist" (2:40) which also would have been sweet to see in the film though I am thrilled this extended scene was able to make it on the bonus features...as my favorite scenes in this film are with the children at a young age. The next is also an extended scene, "Every Day Is a Storm" (3:20) and as this scene seems to be dry as it is, I was thrilled that this extended cut did not make it in the end. The deleted scene, "Red River Valley" (54 seconds) shows a woman singing on the bus that Frank rides. This is another thankful pass. As is the next deleted scene, "You Like Hot Dogs?" (1:28). Though the last deleted scene, "Airport" (1 minute) shows Frank talking to a stranger, once again, and those moments are quite precious so viewers will appreciate that this made it to the bonus features. Lastly, the extended scene, "I'm Sorry" (1:32) is a good scene though after watching it, you may understand why it was cut. Overall, there is great material in the bonus features, so if you enjoyed the film, definitely check out the deleted and extended scenes.


Everybody's Fine is available on DVD & Blu-ray February 23, 2010.

TV Week in Review

*Reviews May Contain Spoilers*

One Tree Hill - At the Bottom of Everything



Brooke: Wouldn’t it be weird if they ended up together?

Julian: Yeah, to tell you the truth I’m kind of envious of them…they’re going for it.

After this episode, I was definitely put in not only a somber mood, but "I can't wait until this season is over" mood so that I can move on from One Tree Hill. Haley trying to get multiple opinions about the state of her mother's health and Haley's mom telling Jamie that she was going to be with Grandpa was so heartbreaking. The early Christmas was sweet and very much needed for the family. Overall though, unfortunately there wasn't the usual balance of drama and comedy. Brooke & Julian's parents dating is disturbing, not comedic. Alex standing up for herself once again was inspiring but hooking up with Julian was definitely not comedic or desiring. When Millie was at an AA meeting and saw Owen, surely fans were thrilled to see Owen trying to pick himself back up and also giving Millie advice on getting Mouth back. Though it looks like she will have trouble with that. I can honestly say the the storyline I am most interested in right now is Mouth & Lauren's friendship turning into a serious relationship. Lastly, Haley's ex boss being toyed with by the Tric bartender/musician was not comedic, moreso a waste of time. Overall for this episode, there was nothing entertaining and the drama was too emotionally draining. Better luck next week?

Leverage - The Three Strikes Job & The Maltese Falcon Job



Eliot & Hardison: Sophie?

Sophie: Took you long enough. Come on.

In Part 1, the team take downs a crooked Mayor and uses baseball to do it, though that was not the original plan. As always, Nate has much bigger plans along the way which leads to the baseball. Though before the plans slightly change...Parker gets caught in the Mayor's office and Tara helps her make up a story to the Mayor's assistant about her presence. This was quite comedic as Tara had to do Sophie's job in helping out Parker. There was only a mention of Sophie, no Sophie in sight as of yet - so not as exciting as this season finale could be. Though speaking of exciting, viewers find out a little bit about 2 of the team members...Eliot hates baseball and Parker speaks Spanish. Interesting revelations and looking forward to the second being used in the third season. Though back to the job at hand, unfortunately the team should have continued on with their original plan as the FBI comes crashing down on the team right before the big win. Luckily, they get away but as they are getting away, Sterling is offering his help to the FBI. Fabulous way to end the episode and what a perfect build to part two.

In Part 2, Sterling offers to give the FBI everything he knows about Nate and the team if they cooperate with him. The team kidnaps the Mayor successfully but Nate's personal ties back at the office get him caught by Sterling and the FBI but luckily, they leave after Nate claims to back off the case. Nate then has the team come back home to figure out how to solve this mess. Though things become chaotic leading Tara to get Sophie to come to the rescue. Hooray! When she arrived, the episode became complete. I wonder if Nate will ever find out that Sophie didn't hear all that he said to her in the phone call and I wonder if he will ever say it again. I also wonder what the state of Nate's health is. Will he be in good condition when the team eventually gets back together or will he have to stay in the office and consult from there on the jobs? How long will it be until Nate is freed from the FBI...because he's got to get out of this predicament, right? Sterling let the team walk away for all Nate's got, so what is the state of Nate? That is the question. Brilliant episodes. There is a lot to ponder and it will be very interesting to see where the team stands come Season 3. Is Tara gone for good? Is Sophie back from her break for good? On a side note, I especially enjoyed watching Eliot count down the 13 people he needed to take down as he took them down. This was very well written and very well executed and with a season finale like that...the way is going to be an excruciating one.

Caprica - Gravedancing



Joseph: Is it done?

Sam: Yeah it's done. Why do you think I'm washing up?

What another fantastic episodes the writers have brought of Caprica this week! In this episode, Daniel is given a script to discuss about his daughter's participation in the bombing on a national talk show at which Patton Oswalt guest stars once again as the host of the talk show. Unfortunately, Amanda does not agree with how Daniel is portraying the situation, so she unexpectedly steps in...which ultimately leads Daniel to opening up about the fact that he made an avatar of Zoe after she died. Honestly, I was expecting more of a response from Amanda after this news was revealed to her, but talk seemed to immediately switch to righting the wrong and starting a charity to help guide troubled children. At this point, where does Amanda and Daniel's marriage stand? Will Amanda's inability to be quiet at the most important times and Daniel's secrets continue to work against them not only in public but in private? Amanda was right to freak out when her house was ransacked and searched but she was completely wrong in accepting a ride from a stranger who claims to be someone without getting the facts straight first. The episode was quite thrilling from the beginning though the suspense grew as Amanda accepted Sam's offer to take her home, which terrified her. Is her guard up more now than before and for the right reasons? Now that she knows about the avatar, will she make Daniel create an avatar for her so that she can see Zoe? Lastly, there wasn't too much going on with Lacy in this episode. It will be interesting to see if, when, and how she makes it to Gemenon. What a very well written episode. Next week looks like a frakking thrill ride, so looking forward to it.

DVD Review: FlashForward Part 1 Season 1

On February 23rd, ABC's hit series, FlashForward Part 1 Season 1 releases on DVD!



Release Date: February 23, 2010
Rated: TV-14
Run Time: 430 minutes

Chaos reigns in Los Angeles after a mysterious event causes everyone in the world to lose consciousness at exactly the same moment. Was it an act of nature? Something man-made gone wrong, or something even more sinister? Whatever it was, every person on Earth blacks out for two minutes and seventeen seconds and sees a series of events from their own future, taking place on April 29, 2010 at 10:00 p.m., Pacific Time. For some the future will be joyous and hopeful; for others, shockingly unexpected; and for a few, it simply doesn’t seem to exist.

Knowing their fate will alter each person’s life in one way or another and poses the questions: Can destiny be changed? And by changing just one destiny, what effect would that have on those of others? Viewers will be able to catch up on the first ten episodes of ABC’s thrilling new drama “FlashForward” before it resumes airing in March 2010.

Adapted from the 1999 novel by Robert J. Sawyer, FlashForward is an incredibly intriguing drama that in the first season asks the question, “Is there just fate or fate and free will that shapes the future?” The series is written with just as much mystery as ABC’s other hit series, “Lost” and is just as suspenseful too. Every episode gets even more thrilling than the last as all of the main characters are (loosely) connected, some who are at peace with their flash forward, but for the majority, their flash forward creates immense tension and stress in their lives. Lies lead to infidelity, fear of no way out of the future seen leads to suicide, the FBI investigation of the blackout leads to the hinting of partners turning against each other, and there is so much more to learn about the cause and effect of the worldwide phenomenon. The ensemble cast is fantastic, leaving the viewers emotionally connected from the Pilot episode. There is solid chemistry among each cast member and the guest stars as well. These 10 episodes were very well written and the storytelling is done at a steady pace which will leave viewers anticipating unraveling the rest of this mystery in the second half of the season. Viewers will also love the visual tone of the show as well as the music which sets the dramatic tone so well. With such a fascinating sci fi premise, the chaos is never ending and will entertain and intrigue you in every moment.



Bonus Features:

Creating A Catastrophe: The Effects of a Global Blackout (7:06) -
This feature takes viewers behind the scenes of the Pilot episode, specifically the freeway disaster scene. On location interviews are conducted with co-creator/executive producer/writer/director, co-creator/executive producer/writer, Brannon Braga, stunt coordinator, Danny Weselis, executive producer, Jessika Borsiczky, special effects supervisor, Allen Hall, location manager, Michelle Latham, visual effects supervisor, Kevin Blank, and special makeup effects artists, Ken Niederbaumer and Todd Masters. Viewers get to see how the destruction was created and the challenges the freeway scene caused while filming. There are interesting facts shared along the way, including that show shut down 6 lanes of traffic, a freeway, and there were 200 extras. There is lots to be fascinated by in the Pilot episode and this feature does a swell job at breaking it down to the viewers.

Flash Forward: A Look Ahead (4:48) - This teaser to episode 111 gives snippets of each of the main characters' story lines, which is quite cool to watch even though there are only two revelations at the very end...where Simon stands at this point with the FBI, and where Mark & Olivia's relationship is headed. It might surprise people that this feature lasts for almost 5 minutes, but because there are no major revelations, it is easy to understand why.

Could (1:32) - This is a sneak peak at the second half of Flash Forward Season 1, narrated by Dominic Monaghan which uncovers some truth, shows infidelity in the present and not future, and shares the hinting at of another black out. What a very well edited sneak peak! This will leave viewers in even more anticipation for what's to come in the latter half of Season One.


“FlashForward” stars Joseph Fiennes as Mark Benford, John Cho as Demetri Noh, Jack Davenport as Lloyd Simcoe, Zachary Knighton as Bryce Varley, Peyton List as Nicole Kirby, Dominic Monaghan as Simon, Brían F. O'Byrne as Aaron Stark, Courtney B. Vance as Stanford Wedeck, Sonya Walger as Olivia Benford and Christine Woods as Janis Hawk.

Own FlashForward Part 1 Season 1 on DVD & Blu-ray February 23, 2010.

FlashForward returns Thursday March 18, 2010 at 8/7c on ABC.

Book Review: Decoding The Lost Symbol

When The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown released this past September, I was thrilled to read Robert Langdon's next adventure. Brown's work is filled with references to an abundant amount of research about history, symbols, religion, etc... and I was fascinated to find out the origins of his research in the book, Decoding The Lost Symbol: The Unauthorized Expert Guide to the Facts Behind the Fiction by Simon Cox, which released this past November.



Decoding the Lost Symbol: The Unauthorized Expert Guide to the Facts Behind the Fiction analyzes the mysteries inside The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown. Simon Cox, bestselling author of Cracking the Da Vinci Code and Illuminating Angels & Demons, offers the first definitive guide to all the mysteries featured in Dan Brown's latest novel. Based on extensive research, this A-to-Z guide lists the real people, organizations, and themes featured in Brown's book. Easy to read and straightforward in its layout, it includes illustrations and color photos of the settings and artifacts referenced in The Lost Symbol.

Decoding the Lost Symbol: The Unauthorized Expert Guide to the Facts Behind the Fiction is organized in an A-Z format, consisting of 60 entries that clearly explain the facts behind what was written in The Lost Symbol.

If you are ready to dwell deeper into The Lost Symbol, this is the must have book for you. Readers will become enlightened on the beliefs of many religions, US history, important people in the world including artists, architects, historians, etc…, myths, rituals, and lots more. This book is an abundant amount of research gathered about the origins of the people, places, and things (symbols, rituals, beliefs, etc…) that were mentioned or inspired Dan Brown in The Lost Symbol. This is a fascinating keepsake for those who have a deep appreciation for not only Dan Brown’s work but lovers of history. Readers will learn so much and find this book to be handy for their own research and clarification on a number of topics. One of the many surprising facts in the book that people may be interested to know is that the Institute of Noetic Sciences that Katherine works for in The Lost Symbol does exist is in real life, and is a non-profit organization based in San Francisco. Along with all there is to learn in Decoding The Lost Symbol, there are a few color photos towards the end of the book, one includes the dome in the Capitol building which is quite fascinating to see. This book starts out with a very well written introduction and ends with acknowledgments and a very useful bibliography. All in well, this guide is written and organized very well and I highly recommend this guide book for anyone looking to find out the foundation of much that is mentioned in The Lost Symbol.

Decoding The Lost Symbol: The Unauthorized Expert Guide to the Facts Behind the Fiction by Simon Cox is available now.

TV Review: Rescue Me Season 5

2 months ago, Rescue Me Season 5 Volume 2 released on DVD and in anticipation for Season 6 which will be coming to F/X later this year, I have gone back and reviewed the season premiere of Season 5. Check it out.


In volume 1 of Season 5, the men of 62 Truck are back for a fifth season in Denis Leary and Peter Tolan's series.

Tommy Gavin is grappling with the death of his father as the season opens, along with the new man in Janet's life (guest star Michael J. Fox). The crew devises a business plan to open a bar, which turns into a lucrative venture, but also a temptation to Tommy, who continues to struggle with sobriety. Sean faces a health issue with no easy solution, while Needles struggles to garner respect and maintain control of the firehouse. Meanwhile, Sheila attempts to purge herself of Tommy and allows Damian to pursue a future as a firefighter.

Conspiracy theories about 9/11 ruffle more than a few feathers, brought on by the arrival of an intriguing foreigner. Under the shadow of a haunting past, the crew continues to look to the future and realize that salvation often lies where you least expect it.

In Volume 2 of Season 5, the season continues as Tommy's drinking begins to spiral out of control. Sean recovers from his illness and heads back to work where Tommy's temper problems still get him in trouble. Needles and Lou both have new women in their lives, providing endless entertainment around the firehouse. Meanwhile, Tommy's womanizing ways begin to catch up to him when he finds himself caught between Janet, Sheila, and an intriguing newcomer. Tensions boil over in a shocking turn of events during a late night at the bar, leaving Tommy Gavin in serious jeopardy in the hottest season yet.


Episode 1: Baptism

Tommy: You uh, you want to go for a walk?
Mickey: Yeah, this place is dry anyway.
Tommy: (To family at baptism) Congratulations on the baby!

What a fantastic premiere to an incredible season. The episode opens with Tommy doing what else...dreaming. Season five picks up where the last season ended, as Tommy along with the rest of the Gavin family are mourning the death of Tommy's father. Even though cousin Mickey encourages Tommy to become a sponsor for someone in Alcoholic's Anonymous, Mickey relapses and is not at all a great sponsor for Tommy. Perhaps Mickey encouraged Tommy to become a sponsor so that Tommy would be so focused on his sponsor that he wouldn't notice how Mickey was breaking down. Unfortunately, well, fortunately Tommy noticed and was there for his cousin. Though if this is how the season is starting off with Mickey...let's just say it will be interesting where Mickey stands at the end of the season. As for Tommy and his relationships with women...if Valerie keeps up the pace, Tommy could drop her and find somebody else. After all, we know his heart is still with Janet, so no matter who he is with, he belongs with her. As if it wasn't enough to see Tommy flustered when Janet is with another man, now she is with Dwight (Michael J. Fox). What a thrill to have Fox on board for multiple episodes. Fox's appearance this season is definitely my favorite guest appearance in this TV season as a whole. Back to what is good for Tommy for a moment...Sheila is definitely not an option and Seasons 1-4 prove why. On a side note, she can nag to Tommy all she wants about Damien's future but Damien is going to do what he wants to do because, well, like mother like son. All of this is just the beginning, which viewers will love, as the build up to the next 21 episodes was written perfectly. Colleen and Black Sean keeping their relationship secret is understandable, and watching this season from the beginning again, I am anticipating reliving the moment Tommy and Sean come to an understanding about the relationship. Ah relationships. That is one of the main components of this show and the character development and relationship development is drawn out so well. For instance, as Sean proposes that he, Mike, and Franco invest in a bar with his inheritance money...viewers think the best and worst that can come out of this situation and lucky for us, we get to see both this season. Seeing Sean so full of optimism in his moment of clarity about being driven to work the bar was interesting to say the least, given all that happens in and with the bar this season. More on that in future reviews. The episode comes to an end with the mention of a new character, a journalist, and quite an emotional fire as the team cannot save a trapped person high up in a building that is too dangerous to enter. The ending was so raw, no dialogue, just music and sounds of the blaze and destruction. What a beautiful disaster. That's what I love about Rescue Me, it has the perfect balance of comedy and drama and I can't wait to continue to relive Season 5 in anticipation for what is to come in the final 2 seasons of Rescue Me.

Own Rescue Me Season 5 Volume 1 and Volume 2 on DVD today.

DVD Review: Edge of Darkness (BBC)

Edge of Darkness, the original BBC miniseries that inspired the Mel Gibson thriller (which recently released in theaters) is now available on DVD.



Release Date: November 3, 2009
Rating: NR
Run Time: 314 minutes

A father's worst fears come true in this apocalyptic political thriller, one of the best and most influential British TV series ever made. Investigating his daughter's murder, a Yorkshire police officer follows clues into a murky world of nuclear espionage and cover-ups. Part crime drama, part science fiction, and 100% terrifying. Winner of six BAFTA® Awards, including best drama series.

If you thought Edge of Darkness the movie was good, check out the original BBC mini series which is definitely a must see classic thriller. The content is so incredibly rich as the writing is smart and clever and complex...quite gripping indeed. Viewers will have no problem watching the mini series in one sitting as Bob Peck captivates viewers with his fabulous performance as the lead. Don't think that a 1985 made mini series is something to pass on, because you will truly regret missing out on this thriller which is psychologically intriguing as well. In fact, this is probably the best mini series of its time. Though it could have used some remastering, viewers will quickly get past this and enjoy the film for the story and the fantastic quality of the storytelling. Though the US film featuring Mel Gibson is compelling and fantastic, it does not capture all of the depth that this series has, so make sure to pick up your copy today. Chances are, you will be watching this mini series over and over again, finding something new to appreciate each and every time.


Special Features:

Did You See...? (8:05) - This feature shares a panel reviewing the film, which the original BBC broadcast back in the day. Interestingly enough, everything that is said can be very much appreciated watching this mini series today. This will make fans definitely want to take a look at this feature, as it is quite a wonder to have such early on positive reviews captured on film forever.

Breakfast Time (6:48) - This is an interview with Bob Peck from the BBC's morning program and since here in America, we usually don't get interviews from talk shows appearing as special bonus features on a DVD...it was quite fun to look at since I was not alive in 1985 and missed the initial Edge of Darkness craze. Though I wonder if this was put on the DVD as a special feature so that Edge of Darkness fans can have an interview related to the film to hold onto from Peck, since he passed away in 1999. No matter the reason, thanks for this great addition to the DVD.

The Broadcasting Press Guild Awards 1986(6:03) and BAFTA Awards(7:31)- If there is any feature that should appear on DVDs more, it is when films and actors of those films are acknowledged for their work at award shows. Needless to say, these features are very much appreciated and I encourage viewers to take a look. In the first, the BPG Chairman discusses the point of acknowledging the film and later Peck and one of the producers talk in a post BPG interview, which was a thrill to see. In the second, viewers watch the BAFTA winning moment, the red carpet interview with Peck, and another interview, with Peck in a more intimate and yet very appropriate setting, a dressing room. One crew member in the Visual Effects department also has a lot to say about shooting some scenes, which is hilarious to watch in a sense considering how far visual effects have come since the 1980s. Though it seems in every interview there is something new to soak up about this mini series, so these features are not to be missed.

Alternate Ending - There is not much to the alternate ending, simply the black screen appears sooner in the ending credits. Don't waste your time viewing this, you aren't missing a thing. You are just gaining more darkness.

Magnox: The Secrets of Edge of Darkness (34:54) - This is a fantastic feature full of interviews with the cast and crew about the making of the film from the very beginning stages (writing the screenplay) to discussing how timeless the mini series is even today. If there is one special feature to watch out of all of the features on both discs, it would be this one.

Photo Gallery - There are over 50 photos in the gallery, including movie stills and photos taken in between shots though the gallery is simple as there is no background music and it is not automatic, so you must press, "Next" for each photo. Talk about old school.


Own Edge of Darkness on DVD today.

DVD Review: Death in Love

Recently released on DVD & Blu-ray is the drama, Death in Love starring Josh Lucas and many other talented names.



Release Date: January 26, 2010
Rating: R
Running Time: 100 minutes

Written, produced and directed by Boaz Yakin (Uptown Girls, Remember the Titans, Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time), this highly acclaimed film boasts a remarkable ensemble cast including Josh Lucas (Sweet Home Alabama, Glory Road), Adam Brody (Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Thank You for Smoking, "The O.C."), Jacqueline Bisset (Class, The Deep, Bullitt, "Nip Tuck") and Lukas Haas (Brick, Alpha Dog, Mars Attacks!, Witness). Hailed by The New York Daily News as "Challenging and thoughtful" and The Hollywood Reporter as "Vivid and unsparing", this searing, sexual drama tells the story of a family's dangerous legacy unraveling as a mother's desperate wartime choices haunt the lives and loves of her sons. In 1990's New York, her eldest son (Lucas) finds a way out of his tailspin of one-night stands and scams when he befriends a charming co-worker (Brody). Meanwhile, his brother (Haas) struggles in a compulsive, co-dependent relationship with their mother (Bisset).

The film opens during World War II, as we find out that a a Jewish woman had an affair with a Nazi doctor and then shifts to following the woman and her two sons as adults, trying to shake themselves from this past they are all unfortunately connected to. This is quite a gripping narrative opening as well and the film gets more intriguing as time goes on. Viewers follow both sons, the oldest(Josh Lucas) who has too many one night stands to count until he is befriended by a co-worker (Adam Brody) and the other (Lukas Haas) who still lives at home with mom. With the older brother, no detail is left hidden when showing his sexual partners. As this is clearly a sexual drama, there is excessive nudity so do not take the term "sexual drama" lightly as I did before pressing play. If you cringe at graphic medical shows, this is also definitely not the film for you. My thoughts on this alone...save the disturbing violence for Schindler's List, The Pianist, etc.. and less graphic sexual content to focus on being more emotionally engaging. That being said, though original, daring, dark, and quite gripping...this film is definitely not for everyone. As far as gripping goes, I'm not sure if it is off the bat riveting for the right reasons, what it somewhat aimed to be - a thought provoking look at individuals who are broken in their each way and also broken in the same way as one family. As far as the plot goes, it seems somewhat jumpy in regards to the connecting story lines and the ending is not very pleasant. Though the acting is fabulous, the film is very well directed, and the tone in the sense of the cinematography was quite beautiful. Honestly though, I do not think viewers can really truly appreciate all that this film is until they watch it with the commentary...

Special Features:

Commentary - The commentary is conducted by Writer/director Boaz Yakin and actor Josh Lucas. If you were able to watch Death in Love in its entirety and would like a better understanding of the film, this is definitely the perfect resource. In fact, it would be better to watch the film with the commentary on first, which might seem unusual...but watch the first 15 minutes of this movie and if you feel like it is too odd to handle, start over with the commentary. Along with learning about what went on behind the scenes - how this film came together, viewers will get to know so much more about every character and each scene will be seen in a better light as Yakin provides such clarity to the script at had. If the title of this film went over your head, you will understand clearly after this commentary.

Interviews (11:34) - Writer/director, Boaz Yakin and producers, as well as cast members, Adam Brody, Lukas Haas, Jacqueline Bisset, and Josh Lucas briefly discuss what attracted them to this film, the script and their characters more in depth, the complexity of the subjects in the script, and working on an indie film. Behind the scenes video is shown as the interviews are played out on set though there doesn't seem to be much to take out of the interviews, so it is not a must see feature.

Featurettes (26:18) - There are 5 featurettes, "2nd Unit," "Sex in Death In Love," "Rehearsal," "Sundance Premiere," and "Sundance Q&A session." All of the featurettes are quite interesting, so definitely press "Play All" instead of watching one or two. You'll love it all.

Death in Love is available on DVD & Blu-ray today.

DVD Review: The People Speak

In December, a review of The People Speak was posted on Hollywood the Write Way. This special TV presentation aired on the History Channel and in one week comes to DVD with 25 minutes of never before aired footage including additional performances, readings, and bonus material.



Release Date: February 23, 2010
Running Time: 110 mins + extras
Rating: N/A

Presenting history through speeches, letters and music performed by today’s most talented voices, this stirring HISTORY™ program pays homage to ordinary citizens whose words and actions commanded extraordinary change in America. Using dramatic and musical performances of the letters, diaries and speeches of everyday Americans, THE PEOPLE SPEAK gives voice to those who spoke up for social change throughout U.S. history, forging a nation from the bottom up with their insistence on equality and justice. From executive producers Matt Damon, Josh Brolin, Chris Moore, and Anthony Arnove, this special presentation – one of the Network’s most highly-anticipated programs of 2009 – is based on historian Howard Zinn’s best-selling books, including “The People’s History of the United States” and “Voices of a People’s History”, it arrives on DVD in a special edition featuring 25 minutes of never-before-aired footage and a wealth of exclusive bonus material, including additional performances, a photo gallery and more.

Narrated by Zinn himself, this groundbreaking doc illustrates the relevance of these passionate historical moments to our society today, reminding us that democracy is not a spectator sport and to never take liberty for granted. A journey from the founding of this country to the civil rights movement and beyond, THE PEOPLE SPEAK uses star power to celebrate democracy and was a labor of love for many an A-lister: Matt Damon reads from The Declaration of Independence; Bruce Springsteen performs Woody Guthrie’s “This Land is Your Land”; while other accomplished performers, including Morgan Freeman, Marisa Tomei, Josh Brolin, Viggo Mortensen, Kerry Washington, Bob Dylan and Eddie Vedder lend their voices to help re-create the emotional impact of these moments in history.

This special presentation presents Howard Zinn's book, “A People’s History of the United States” in the form of live readings and musical performances from a variety of celebrities from Marisa Tomei to Morgan Freeman to Bob Dylan to Pink. Zinn’s book is described as a “radical, critical view of American history” and there are no better words to explain it. Viewers will learn a lot of history about what the citizens of the United States wanted and lived vs. what the leaders of the country wanted and enforced. Jasmine Guy's readings stand out amongst the rest as Marian Wright Edelman who fought for children’s rights and Sylvia Woods, which was quite a comedic performance and heartbreaking reality of the times. Pink's performance of her song, "Dear Mr. President" was fantastic and incredibly thought provoking. This film really gives the American people a voice and all of the performances were executed with just the right amount of emotion and thought. The music arrangement and editing were both brilliantly put together. This is an incredibly powerful and inspirational series that every American should watch as they will come away wanting to become a better person for themselves, their families, and their country.

Special Features:

Behind the Scenes at the Cutler Majestic Theatre (12:20) - Howard Zinn discusses the creation of The People Speak as behind the scenes video is shown of the actors arriving & rehearsing, the audience lining up and settled in their seats, the production team prepping, the set being moved on stage, and more. A number of the celebrities who perform, the director, Chris Moore, and others involved in the project discuss what sparked their interest in the project and working on the project which is quite intriguing. Even more intriguing is audience members being interviewed about why The People Speak is so important to them. This was a very well edited feature...how I wish more audience members were interviewed. Though it seems after watching this DVD, bonus features and all, this ill cause quite an open forum with those around you.

Celebrity Interviews (3:23) - In this feature, celebrities discuss when they were first introduced to The People Speak, how it has affected them, working with Howard Zinn on this project, performing in front of a live audience, and the importance of the message of this project. This is definitely a significant feature, as it will give that extra bit of encouragement to those watching to get up and make a positive change in their community, country.



Howard Zinn passed away on January 27, 2010 at the age of 87 making The People Speak one of his last projects before his passing, and what an incredible project to leave behind. Thank you Howard Zinn.

Interview: Sanctuary Star, Agam Darshi

Canadian actress, Agam Darshi can currently be seen on the hit Syfy series Sanctuary, as con artist Kate Freelander and she took some time recently to fill in Hollywood the Write Way about what to expect in Season 3 and more.



Photo Credit: Kevin Clark

What can we expect for the 3rd season of Sanctuary?
The third season of Sanctuary is going to be a surprise for all of us. I know they're working on scripts right now, and I also know they have some new writers on staff which means fresh ideas! The exciting thing about Kate is that she has a lot of room to grow, and talking to Damian last year he really wanted to take her into an interesting direction where she was truly a solid part of the team...I have heard rumblings about a possible love connection for Kate...but nothing is confirmed!

Kate was introduced as a negative person from the beginning, do you think she will change her ways and become more positive and do things to right her wrongs?
I think Kate already has changed her ways. She's a different person at the end of Season 2, then at the beginning of it, and we see that with her interaction to the other Sanctuary members. She is starting to belong to the team and she is starting to feel like she has a family. However, being tough, rough, and outspoken is her personality. That is simply who she is, and I don't think that will change. I think that's what makes her a great fit for the Sanctuary team is that she has those qualities. It adds a great dynamic when she interacts with the rest of Sanctuary. But underneath she does care, and she is vulnerable.

As Kate, what are your thoughts on Ashley's death?
I think Kate was so new when all this happened. She knows that Ashley meant a lot to the team so she respects that. But Ashley and Kate never had any time together so I don't think there is any emotional connection between them.

What relationships would you like to see more developed with Kate?
Every relationship Kate has is very specific. I'd love to see the dynamic between Kate and Magnus grow. Magnus has a lot to teach Kate and it will be interesting to see how that develops. I also love the relationship Kate has with Henry vs her relationship to Will. I think with Henry, she knows she can get what she wants. Whereas Will challenges her in a different way. It'll be fun to see where that goes.

What was the most challenging scene to shoot in Season 2?
Oh my gosh! There was so many!! In Hero, I had to be really physical and by the end of it I was a mess! I had goo all over me, I had french fries in my hair, it was crazy! But a lot of fun. I also remember this one scene is End of Nights where I was being shot at and I had to jump a wall and I kept hitting my shin against the brick - by the end of it I had a huge bump on my right leg, that took a good 6 months to go away ... Oh and since we're on the topic that last scene of Haunted when Bigfoot and I are swinging from the ceiling, we were both wearing a wire to hold us up. It was the most uncomfortable thing ever!

What would you like to see happen for your character in the new season?
I want to see Kate a bit more vulnerable. I'd like to learn more about her back story. I'd like to see her really accept her strength. I think Kate has a tendency to put on a persona to feel stronger and more in control. But I think as she works with the Sanctuary group, she will find more inner strength and confidence.

Who would you like to see guest star on the show?
Callum Keith Rennie. He's on...everything. But he was on Battlestar for a while, 24... He's a great actor.

Do you think we can expect you to make an appearance at this year's San Diego Comic Con?
I'd love to! Haven't heard anything yet.

You have written and produced three short films and are currently writing a feature film, so can you tell us what your feature film is about and if we can expect anymore Bollywood shorts from you?
No more Bollywood shorts. I think that was something I just needed to get our of my system. It turned out great, and I'm happy I did it. But I have a better understanding for Hollywood and mainstream films then I do for Bollywood, since I grew up in England and Canada my whole life. So I would like to focus more on that.
My feature...can't tell you much. Let me finish it and then I can let you know!

Are you interested in writing an episode of Sanctuary?
Wow. writing for TV. I would totally love the challenge. It's so different from writing for film. There's a bit more of a formula but it's really high pressure because there are so many opinions and deadlines. I would definitely do it, if I was presented with the opportunity.

Congrats on recently being cast in the upcoming CTV comedy "Dan for Mayor." How will this affect shooting with Sanctuary or do you get to film an entire season of Sanctuary and then go film a season of Dan for Mayor?
Thank you! I shot Dan for Mayor last Fall in Toronto when we were finished with Sanctuary. At this point there is no word about Dan for Mayor coming back, as it still has to air.

Can you tell us about filming the movie, 2012?
2012 was great. It was a huge epic film with tons of extras and sets. The cast and crew were great. I did the scene where we see the tidal wave in a studio. They had built a giant mountain in front of a huge green screen and we had hundreds of extras. Who knew that experience was preparing me for Sanctuary!

You have done so much sci-fi work, what attracts you to sci-fi and do you intend to choose the sci-fi roles or it just played out that way?
I love the scope of Sci-fi. It doesn't get old. Characters are always challenged by the stories, and they keep learning about themselves, and pushing themselves. There are so many directions that it makes it exciting. I find sometimes dramatic shows are really exciting for the first few years and then it gets boring because it is the same old stories. But that doesn't happen in Sci-fi. Sky's the limit.

You also have theatre experience, are you interested in getting back into theatre anytime soon?
Definitely. I was about to do a play earlier this year but it didn't work with my schedule, so I'm hoping to do it by the end of the year. I miss it, for sure and I feel really alive when I am on stage. I'd like to have a career where I can do TV and film work and then jump into theatre every few years.

Sanctuary Season 3 premieres this fall on Syfy. Dan for Mayor premieres March 1, 2010 8:30pm on CTV.

Interview: Julia Ling Talks Chuck

Chuck fans will be thrilled to see Anna Wu aka Julia Ling back in the later half of Chuck Season 3. Until then, here's an update straight from Julia herself, as she took some time out on her birthday, yesterday to chat with Hollywood the Write Way.



Big fan of Chuck, when can we see you appear on the show next?
I just shot an episode a few days ago actually. I believe it is episode 16. Stay tuned! I don't know what else is in store for Anna but I know there are some exciting things coming for the show.

So hopefully that won't be the last of you?
Hopefully not. (laughs) I don't think so.

What is your favorite prop piece in Buy More?
I would say the guitar because I love Rock Band and Guitar Hero. Sometimes I swing buy the area where the games are set up and I am always lobbying to have my character have a guitar in her scene. I just love to put that prop over my shoulder.

What is your favorite tech gadget?
Oh gosh, there are so many but I guess my phone because it is my life.

What has been your favorite episode to shoot so far?
I would definitely say Chuck vs. The Break-up, with the Mighty Jocks and there's a fight with the tripod. That was funny.

How much Subway did you eat during the campaign?
I have had so many sandwiches! I got all of my friends to buy subs...I think out of everyone I told and everyone they told, we bought a few hundred sandwiches for that one day campaign when everyone went out and bought Subway. So my friends weren't happy when Anna didn't come back...they were saying, "We bought all of these sandwiches." (laughs)

You have also worked on some other amazing shows including House, Grey's Anatomy, The Deep End, etc... and if you had the chance to appear in any of them again, which would you choose?
I would pick Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip and The Deep End. Timothy Busfield actually directed me on Studio 60 and The Deep End. There were such good people that we worked with and that's also a huge part of why I love my work on Chuck so much because I just love the people that I work with.

You have a producing credit in the film, Cinder but would you be interested in producing an episode of Chuck and can you tell us about working on Cinder?
Yes, if they let me! Though I don't want to talk too much about Cinder because I just wanted to learn and am not ready to discuss that project just yet.

Are you interested in writing and directing aside from acting and producing?
Yes. I'm producing my own thing right now and I am definitely interested in writing and directing. Everywhere I go I see things at a circle angle that I like, you know, so someday if that is a route that life wants to go down, it will happen. Zach (Levi) directed an episode recently (Chuck vs. the Beard).

What have you learned from your experience on Chuck from behind the scenes?
When I wasn't on camera, I would run on over to the video village just because I am a great admirer of one of the producers/directors, Robert McNeill. People who were actors and then turn into directors, they seem to have a deeper understanding of both sides of the camera so I am a great admirer of his work. I am definitely a fan of his and a few others who came in, it was a lot of fun.

What are your upcoming projects?
High School came out at Sundance recently and right now I am just reading scripts as there is so much out there to go after.

What was your experience like at the Sundance Film Festival?
It was so fun! Our movie was in the top 25 at Sundance, so there was a lot of press and excitement. It was my first time in Park City, Utah so I felt like a kid on Christmas Day, opening presents...I was so happy. There was so much snow and I loved it since I was born and raised in LA. It reminded me of a Christmas snow globe. Going through all of the gifting suites and watching the audience feedback, it was a lot of fun. Also, seeing the cast and crew again was great because we shot in Michigan and the last time I saw everyone was about 3 months ago. So it was big party. It was a lot of fun. A few people from Chuck came too so that was great.

Chuck airs Mondays at 8/7c on NBC.

TV Week in Review

*Reviews May Contain Spoilers*

One Tree Hill - My Attendance Is Bad But My Intentions Are Good

Haley: I'm not the glue. My mom is and when she's gone, everything is going to fall apart.



This was quite an emotional episode, mainly because of the appearance of Haley's mom. Last time we saw her mom, Haley was asking permission to get married to Nathan. Though viewers found out that her husband passed away a few years ago and now she is sick. That was an unfortunate truth to find out. Suddenly Taylor with David seems so petty. Though I know Tree Hill fans were thrilled to find out that David left Taylor. That was a smart move. Not so smart...Taylor leaving at the exact moment that she needs to be with her mother the most. She can be angry but why leave your mother when the reason you are mad is because your time is limited with your mother? It seems that mom has set Quinn up for at least 6 months to get her career started, so that sweet. Hopefully Taylor will come around in time or their mother will miraculously get better. Moving on, Victoria putting herself out there, available to Millie if she ever felt troubled again was such a kind and meaningful gesture. So I wonder why Millie didn't call her after she couldn't reach Mouth. Thankfully though, she decided to go to her support group meeting instead of taking any more drugs. This is one step in the right direction. This episode really spoke loud and clear about doing the right thing. Alex apologizing to Brooke was thoughtful and though it doesn't change anything that she has done in the past, it seems Brooke and Alex can be cordial. Brooke and Julian's friendship seems so odd. How long will this friendship last? Looking forward to seeing how Haley and the family gets through this hard time, looking forward to seeing Millie push through and conquer her demons, and looking forward to Brooke and Julian finally being happy - whatever that may mean for each party.

Heroes - Brave New World (Season Finale)

Sylar: I'm a hero.



Is it just me or was this season finale much better than the last? Hiro seeing Charlie in her 80s it seemed, happy and fulfilled help his mission for her come to a close. Tracy coming to HRG & Claire's rescue was the best move Tracy has made all season long! Claire, HRG, and those in Samuel's "family" standing up to Samuel was incredible, especially since Peter used Samuel's power against him and Hiro teleported everyone to safety. Emma was literally forced to play and lure those in by Doyle but Sylar of all people saved Emma and seems to be a pair with Peter of all people. Though with all the good that everyone has done, it still is not enough for Claire. What a bittersweet ending. I love how the show has really come full circle from Season 1 to now, as Claire's "suicide" video has been seen live by the public. A brave new world it shall be now that she has exposed herself. Though it doesn't seem Peter or Hiro were too happy with her decision, so it will be interesting to see where they stand in the new season. Great season finale!

Ugly Betty - Smokin' Hot

Amanda: Rachel Zoe can suck it. There's a new skinny bitch in town!



What a fantastic episode. While it was understandable why Betty was not chosen to cover fashion week, it was not fair to automatically not give her a chance at all. Betty is a hard worker and surprises people quite often so she should have been given a shot from the beginning. So anyway, once she got her shot and found a very talented designer, something just felt wrong so it was no surprise when Marc tried to take credit for something Betty did. It is unfortunate that it took a fire, damaged clothes, and Betty and Amanda pulling together the mess to get Marc to apologize to Betty. Marc needs to grow up and stop putting people down to try to get ahead. While his behavior is not surprising, I was surprised by Justin's! He started the house fire and while I can completely understand why he did it, I am very curious as to if and how people will find out that he started the fire. Speaking of starting a fire, Wilhelmina hiring Claire's son as a model was quite funny since Willie had no idea who she was working with. Claire and her son reconnecting was the moment I had been waiting for, for quite some time so it will be interesting to see how Claire tells those at Mode and if Willie will be human and let Claire live her life or she will try to use this "dirt" against her. Lastly, it seems Helen is out of the picture now that she has a man in her life, but let's wait until next week to be sure! I wouldn't mind if this was that last we saw of her. Since this is the last season of the show and there are only so many episodes left, the choice of guest stars and their screen time really needs to be evaluated so that Ugly Betty fans don't feel short sided by the focus in these story lines that will soon come to an end. Looking forward to next week!

Vampire Diaries - Fool Me Once

Damon. I'm trusting you. Don't make me forget it.



Vampire Diaries is so well written and acted and this is another episode that proves so. Anna wanted her mother out of the tomb and used Elena as leverage while Damon wanted Katherine out of the tomb. It was reassuring to know that the episode was building up to heavier moments and the majority of the episode was not about Elena and Bonnie being held captive by Anna. Thanks to Grams locating them, they were able to get out. Grams really played a bigger part tonight so hopefully the toll it took on her won't lead to her death, hopefully she can be saved. It doesn't look bright though. Another unfortunate piece of information...while Anna got her mother back, Damon didn't get Katherine back. Is this the last we will see of Anna or will she be forced by Damn to help find Katherine? What a revelation to find out that Katherine was spared in the fire and was last seen by Anna in Chicago in 1983. Where is Katherine today and why did she leave Damon and Stefan? Does Damon even want to find her at this point? Who is the vampire that woke up in the tomb? Fantastic episode! Every episode of Vampire Diaries leaves fans with questions, answers, and surprising revelations so one can only anticipate what is in store for the final episodes of the season.

The Office - The Manager and Salesman

Michael: Have fun signing my commission checks boss.



This was an interesting episode. Kathy Bates guest starred as Jo Bennett, President of Sabre and as soon as she walked in, she found a problem with both Michael & Jim as co-managers. This opened the door to Michael and Jim going back and forth over who would be manager and who would go back to being a salesman. It was quite funny to see Michael try to throw Jim under the bus so that he could continue to stay manager and then try to praise him about his managing skills so that Michael could become a salesman and keep his commission. Thankfully, the job of the salesman went to the right person, Jim. I say this because Jim is supporting himself, his wife, and soon their baby while Michael is only supporting himself and therefore does not seem to need the commission as much as Jim. Michael just needs to better manage the money that he makes. Anyway, Andy giving everyone Valentine Day cards instead of just Erin was a punk move for Andy because he could have just put a card on her desk when she wasn't there or in the break room or on the way out of work. Of course he did none of these things, so Kelly read into Andy's card, thinking that he liked her. That was quite funny. Kelly is definitely the poster child for love and attention at Dunder Mifflin. Hopefully soon she will find the one for her. Thankfully, Andy sent a mass email about not looking into the email, which reaffirmed Erin's thoughts about Andy. Go Andy & Erin! I can't wait to see these two make it official. Overall, this was a good episode though Michael does not seem to have grown much since season 1. Character development has not been huge. I'd like to see Michael mature more, just a bit at least. Throwing people under the bus and having more toys than office supplies is so childish. Grow up Michael. That's all for now. Looking forward to more!

Sneak Peak of The Real Housewives of NYC Season 3

The Real Housewives of New York City premieres March 4, 2010 at 11/10c and here's a sneak peak of the new season!



Also be sure to check out my interviews with The Real Housewives of NYC star, Ramona Singer and The Real Housewives of New Jersey star, Danielle Staub.

Killers Movie Trailer

Lionsgate has just debuted a new trailer for the upcoming action comedy, Killers, starring Ashton Kutcher and Katherine Heigl. It's quite good. Check it out below along with the synopsis.

Spencer Aimes is just your average, undercover, government-hired super-assassin accustomed to a life of exotic European locales, flashy sports cars and even flashier women. But when he meets Jen Kornfeldt, a beautiful, fun-loving computer tech recovering from a bad break-up, he finds true love…and happily trades international intrigue for domestic bliss.

Three years later, Spencer and Jen are still enjoying a picture-perfect marriage – that is, until the morning after Spencer’s 30th birthday. That’s when Spencer and Jen learn he's the target of a multi-million dollar hit. Even worse, the hired killers have been stalking the happy couple for years, and could be anyone: friends, neighbors, the grocery store clerk, even that crabby old guy shuffling across the street.

Now Spencer and Jen are on the run for their lives. As their suburban paradise turns into a paranoid game of dodge-the-bullet, they must find out who wants Spencer dead and why, all the while trying to save their marriage, manage his pain-in-the-ass in-laws, keep up neighborly appearances…and just plain survive.



Killers is directed by Robert Luketic and written by Melissa Stack.


Killers hits theaters June 4, 2010.

Danielle Staub Shares The Naked Truth on The Real Housewives of New Jersey

Last year, The Real Housewives of New Jersey premiered with incredible ratings and the finale as well as reunion show left so much for viewers to talk about until the Season 2 premiere this year (May 4th). Though until May comes around, Danielle Staub had quite a few things to say in this exclusive interview about Season 1, each of the Jersey housewives, her upcoming book, The Naked Truth, and so much more. Check it out.



After watching the first season, what would you say you wish would have been shown that was edited in a way that made a certain situation seem biased to a certain side?
I think that anybody that was watching couldn't possibly comprehend unless you are me what it is like to be a single mom, with 2 beautiful daughters who were standing close by while you are being called horrific names by women who are passing judgment and then people are siding with them. I don't think that they edited it properly to show that my kids were standing right there. To show a 4 minute clip of a 4 hour thrashing upon oneself with your children present, that really doesn't do it justice. To be perfectly honest with you...when I say this, I say it with all clarity...those women are not anyone that I would like to be saying to my children, "Now there's an example of good parenting."

So I take it your relationship with the ladies (Jacqueline, Teresa, Dina, and Caroline) is the same as it was last year?
It is safe to say that I don't want a relationship with them. I learned a lot from watching the show about the kind of people that I don't want to be around...I've never in my 47 years witnessed any woman behave the way that they do. They're animals. It's like being in an insane asylum with no medication.

When did you decide that you wanted to write a memoir?
It's amazing because I sort of lived my life and left it in the past for a reason because 1986 is a long time ago. Not hiding from my past, it's just a past. A past is a part of you but you don't live in it, otherwise you don't move forward. When these women made it an ever present part of my no, I decided that if they're taking such great interest in it, how about it be told by the person who actually lived it, rather than some insane character who wrote a book about me as a jilted ex... I'm going to tell my story the way that it happened. If you didn't live it, it is not yours to speak of.

Would you say this is a response book from the book that was written about you?
Absolutely not...when you write a book about somebody else, it's kind of just their opinion and what Caroline throws around as heresy... He didn't live my life. I know the intimate details of my life better than anyone. That's what led me to writing my memoir. Plus, Simon & Schuster and the publishing houses that approached me for book deals - there were 6 publishing houses that made me believe that this might be worth something. It wasn't something I sat down one day and thought, "I'm going to write my life story." Episode 2, I was approached and by episode 4, I signed. By the end of the season, I was doing proposals for a book deal and by July, I had a book deal with Simon & Schuster...there was a bidding war for my book, and it's not a cookbook. I didn't steal someone else's recipes and pretend to cook them. This is my life. I will challenge any of them to cook one recipe in their cookbooks and explain how it's done without a frying pan in front of them. I'll challenge them to that.

You are hilarious.
Let's just say that they did not portray who Danielle really is. What the world saw was me standing there with my jaw dropped and retaining my dignity and grace because my children were present. You don't hear me curse, you don't hear me yell at people...you don't hear me saying, "I'm classy." Because you don't have to you talk about being classy. People will see it if you are.

Are you going to let your children read your book?
My children at this point have absolutely no choice but to be apart of the writing process because I've done a book that would normally take a year and a half - two years in under 6 months. It has taken a lot of time from them. Have they heard the things that are going into t, the editing, and everything else that is going on? No, not really. But there are certain parts of the book that absolutely involved them because it is my life story up until now. Do I think that it is necessary for my 11 year old to be handed a copy from her Mommy? No. Will I say that they are forbidden to read it? Absolutely not. But my children are pretty good. When I say that they are not ready for something, they usually don't test the waters.

In the first season, we saw a lot of arguments and a lot of tension. Do you feel that hopefully in the next season we will see a more laid back side of you?
You know what's funny, I didn't really have arguments or tension. I didn't yell or scream, I just walked into the lion's den constantly and had people talk badly about me when I wasn't even there.

What about the tension at the party when you invited everyone to your house and they were laughing and talking under their breath?
Here's the thing. When people say I'm so tense, no, I just stood by and observed people I didn't know and their behaviors. I only draw my conclusions upon my own experiences with somebody and I learned the hard way, which you'll find out very soon to come that you should never draw conclusions on people based on other people's issues with those people. I found it really interesting that all of them used my little tiny body frame to hide behind. They had to dig a few years back and saw that I was a good mom, had great kids with honor students, single and hanging onto that house that she has lived in for 16 years and raised her kids on, country club member, involved with the Catholic church...they found all of those things out but that's not what they were looking for, so they dug 10 years back and though, "Nope, still getting the same good stuff," so they went back 20 years back, "Nope, nothing still", so 25 years back, "Oh there's something, she as arrested." They thought to make this single mom with no husband to stand by her side and take care of her and no family to speak of the focal point of what she did in 1986...and the whole world watched. Quite a few people came running to my side acknowledging that they have had problems too. Has anybody even focused on the fact Jacqueline has a record? Where did Teresa live when we were shooting season one? Then as soon as they moved in, the house was in foreclosure. If they had all that money, how come everyone is suing them for the work they did on the house? If they are so wealthy, why is her husband hitting telephone poles at 2am instead of being home with her and her 4 children - instead of hiring a driver to drive him home? It's out there on TMZ but nobody cares because Jacqueline's out there saying, "That's not the way it happened." Why aren't they getting asked the way that I got asked a million times? If they are going to accuse me of being responsible for their misery, then I'm going to take credit for being responsible for their happiness. You can't have one without the other.

You touched on my next question when you said many people have approached you saying that they have problems too. Do your acquaintances treat you any differently since the show premiered?
My friends are all new. These women I knew for 5 minutes. You don't get to know my life story in 5 minutes. That's like me never being on TV, you and I sitting down next to each other at a restaurant, you telling me, "I live your shoes" and me saying, "I was arrested in 1986." That's the same situation. Why would I tell anybody that I just met that I was arrested? If you don't like me now then you won't like what I did in my past. If you get to know me, like me, have gotten into my heart, and I have gotten into your heart, you have every right to know where I have been. But when we are new friends and you feel that you "deserve to know" as Teresa put it, Caroline, "I'm going to investigate you before I get to know you"...don't toot your horn to hard honey. They can hide all they want but eventually, everyone is going to be exposed.



Do you have an opinion about The Real Housewives of NYC, Atlanta, and OC?
I absolutely do. They are incredible. They bring a little bit of drama that is real but guess what? They can all sit down and literally have cutting utensils in front of them and not be tempted to use them on one another. Whereas these crazy women on Jersey think it's a really good thing to be attacking me. I've met and seen the other housewives in public and they are really nice. Even though they may not like each other, they can still be around each other without picking on each other and being nasty. These women out here are downright nasty. I guess they feel they are better than me and I don't know what gives them that idea because not one of them has an honor student except me. You don't see my kids running around the store ripping prices tags off of things, Teresa. You don't see mine talking about Trekkies and me calling them stupid. You don't hear one of mine calling me a crackhead on national television. But people will sit and judge me and think everything must be true because Jacqueline, Teresa, Dina, and Caroline said so? Hello Dina, I'm obsessed with you, really? Is it the fake teeth, nose job, boob jobs, tummy tuck...are those the things I want? How about I ask my sister to find me a husband so I can move out of her house. Caroline can paint the picture any way she wants to but I will give her all of the colors so she can paint it properly.

This is so much to take in.
People didn't get to know me. That was just me going, my kids are here right now, I'm not going to talk and you're calling me a prostitute? All I have to say is, if we keep them really busy, I can actually get on and keep living my life. Because they weren't part of my life prior to taping this show. I thought taping this show would be a fun thing to do with my kids since I had recently gone through a horrible divorce and didn't know how to be single. When these women told me that they were going to make me part of their lives and we were going to have fun...who does all of this to people, let alone a single mom? Between the lot of them they have 11 children so I don't know how they have so much time to focus on me and then tell the world that I'm obsessed with them. One of my dearest friends is Dina's ex sister in law. I never had to ask a question about anything because they don't take to them either. What people don't realize is that people come to me and say, "I can't believe they said that about you, did you know this about them?" I'm not asking and they don't hold back, whereas they felt the need to investigate me. Rest assured, there is no good blood between me and those women.

That puts a cap on season one and why I am writing the book. I would like people to really know about me. If I can help people through my own experiences and feel a little better about themselves, why shouldn't I use it to do some good? I have a favorite quote from Emily Dickinson, "If I can stop one heart from breaking, I shall not live in vain." Perhaps I can achieve that because I have been at heartbreak hotel for a long time but I'm not anymore...and instead of tearing other people down like those women did to me...you don't see me throwing the first blow but I'm not going stand here and let those women wipe their feet on me. That goes for anybody else. You know, instead of tearing each other down, we should be lifting each other up and I say that from the bottom of my heart. I am working on myself and I try to be a better me every day. As far as the show goes, they want drama but it doesn't have to cost me my integrity, dignity, or respect.

Do you hope the housewives read your book and have more clarity on who you are?
No. They weren't part of my life prior to the show or now. It's not written for them or about them. It's not a housewife book. You know, I was blessed to have survived the expose that those people did on me. It's all over the internet but watch how Google alerts change as my book comes out. It's not easy to know that someone can Google me and prostitute comes up. That's not right. Even though I was arrested, nobody realizes that I plead guilty for one thing and that was extortion. It doesn't mean that I was guilty of any of those charges but I was there. Either that or face 19 years for each of those indictments. Who wouldn't take a plea bargain? So I did. I did 5 years probation for that. The ladies said that I kidnapped a little boy. They mentioned that and let people's imagination run. I was 23 years old and he was 28 years old. He wasn't a little boy. It's amazing what I've had to defend. It's been frustrating and hurtful. Also, I love my children and I spend every moment I have with my kids and I don't bring men home. I have been single for a year and a half, celebant, and now abstinent for 8 months. That doesn't suggest that I have a lot of people coming around. I really am doing this because I am going to be married the next time that I am with someone and that is a serious commitment that I don't take lightly. I want people to draw their own conclusions by really getting to know me and hopefully they can see that in my book and in the changes I am making in my life.

One of the NYC housewives is posing for Playboy. If you were offered would you say yes?
I am dying to do Playboy. I am probably the only Jersey housewife that would be considered because have you seen the rest of them? (laughs) For me, it's not about having people look at my body, it's about empowering women. I'm 47 years old with 2 kids and I feel very happy with myself, enough that I am willing to bare it all. And how fitting when my book is named, "The Naked Truth." I've bared it all there, I can bare it all here. It's something I will be very proud of, not if I get asked but when. (laughs)

Where are your favorite places to go and what are your favorite things to do in New Jersey?
I don't go out a lot and when I do it's with my kids, so there are a few restaurants that I enjoy. But I spend a lot of time in New York. Lately I have been working on my book, beyond 12 hour days, so it's difficult to pin point the restaurants at this point. When I go out, I go to St. Regis in NY. I love NJ though because it is peaceful and a pleasant place to raise your children but I love Manhattan for its art and history.

In what ways are you giving back to your community?
I am very involved with my church. I am a devout Catholic. I go to mass every Sunday. There are a lot of people in my community who have asked me to help out with certain charities, like Friends of Wayne Animals, and fundraisers. I like local charities so I can get my kids involved. My daughter is a long distance track runner and ran with Corzine in the last 5k. We do everything as a family when it comes to charity events. I am giving back to the community on a daily basis no matter where I am and where I go. I try to always stay in a positive state of mind and if you were to look at my Facebook or Twitter, there is nothing but positive posts up there because that is the way that I live my life.

Season 2 of The Real Housewives of New Jersey featuring Danielle Staub premieres May 4, 2010 on Bravo.