DVD Review - A Cinderella Story: Once Upon A Song

Release Date: September 6, 2011
Rating: PG
Running Time: 88 minutes

It's a modern and enchanting twist on an enduring classic! Katie (Lucy Hale) dreams of being a recording artist but is continually thwarted by her cruel stepmother (Missi Pyle) and stepsister (Megan Park). When Katie falls hard for Luke (Freddie Stroma), the new boy at her Performing Arts school, she tries to get his attention with her singing. But when her stepsister takes credit for Katie's amazing voice and Luke falls for the wrong girl, Katie must learn to stand up for her dreams before her stepmother forces Katie to sing Luke into the arms of her wicked stepsister at the Winger Talent Showcase.

ABC Family stars, Lucy Hale and Megan Park star in the latest Cinderella adaptation, A Cinderella Story: Once Upon A Song. What makes this adaptation different from all of the rest is the musical aspect of the story that so many adaptations leave out. Of course the music in this film is not nearly as timeless and wonderful as what we know from the classic fairy tale, but it is a good modern take that tweens today will enjoy without question. As a follower of Park and Hale's careers, I know of their music backgrounds but this film is Hale's film singing debut, giving her space to shine on the film's soundtrack. Also, the Bollywood dance brings a visually stunning touch to the film and is quite a work out for the cast. Ah, the cast. The cast is an incredible group of young actors whom you can tell had a blast working on this film so it makes watching this film bearable for anyone who is wary of watching another Cinderella remake. There's nothing original about the story but it resonates with this generation so much that it's okay. Especially since in the end, the message is so positive, to go after your dreams no matter who tries to get in your way. There's actually a lot to take out of the film, so if nothing else, get this DVD for a young person that you know so they will have one more film encouraging them to do the right thing.

Bonus Features:
Spotlighting Lucy Hale: Our New Cinderella (6:34 minutes) - Viewers watch footage of Lucy Hale in rehearsals on and off set as Hale and her co-stars are interviewed about the talent that is Lucy Hale. Hale's acting and singing talents are praised but most importantly, her fearlessness and drive to succeed is what stands out about Hale and it is what makes her give this role so much depth. That is worth watching the cast talk about, so make sure to check out this feature.

Appearing in this Feature:
Executive Producer/Choreographer, Michelle Johnston
Actors, Lucy Hale, Megan Park, Freddie Stroma, Jessalyn Wanlim, Missi Pyle, and Titus Makin Jr.
Writers, Jessica Scott and Erik Patterson
Songwriters & Soundtrack Producers, Tim James and Antonina Armato

Meet Prince Charming (7:42 minutes) - Lucy Hale interviews her co-star, Freddie Stroma off set on a dock in Wilmington, North Carolina. The casual setting enhances the incredible chemistry that these two young actors have and makes for the most entertaining interview for this film period.

Make 'Em Move (6:22 minutes) - This feature showcases the musical sequences in the film, though because of its length it is hard to grasp any depth in one particular sequence. This is more of an overlook than in depth look or lesson into any of the moves. I was particularly bummed that more of the Bollywood culture was not detailed.

Appearing in this Feature:
Executive Producer/Choreographer, Michelle Johnston
Actors, Lucy Hale, Megan Park, Jessalyn Wanlim, Titus Makin Jr., and Missi Pyle

Flippin' On Set (6:24 minutes) - The cast members' Flip Cam diaries from on and off the set have been edited together for viewers who want a firsthand look at what life is like for an actress on set of a film. This feature gives viewers a great look at the chemistry amongst the cast and positive energy on set and will make viewers want to view the film again just to get a taste of that energy again.

* "Bless Myself" Official Music Video

Own A Cinderella Story: Once Upon A Song on DVD September 6, 2011.

Book Review - When Parents Text: So Much Said...So Little Understood by Sophia Fraioli & Lauren Kaelin

I didn't know it before but When Parents Text originated as a website before the book of the same title came into fruition. The website was created by two best friends from my home state of New Jersey which led to the "Best Of" collection, if you will, for readers to pick up at their nearby book stores.



A collection of insanely funny texts between parents and kids, When Parents Text is a surprisingly affecting window into the complicated time when parents aren't ready to let go, and kids aren't ready to be let go. The parents are well-meaning but hopeless, silly and a little corny, and befuddled by the technology. The kids are bewildered yet patient: the perfect straight man. And the authors, two recent college graduates, Lauren Kaelin and Sophia Fraioli, have an unerring editorial instinct to select the funniest, sweetest, quirkiest, most-telling exchanges.

When Parents Text is any easy read, so easy that you could finish it in less than two hours thanks to the constant flow of quick laughs on each and every page. The book begins with a brief introduction to the authors and a quick origin story of the website which is definitely helpful for readers like me going into this collection blind. Then the 200+ text messages begin, many aided with funny illustrations... and there's even a chapter dedicated to odd photo messages! The topics that are covered are hilarious not just because the parents are texting but because some of the texts translate well even for the tech savvy. Everyone makes mistakes, whether they have to do with signatures, spelling and grammar, pre-maturely worrying when someone does not text back in a quick manner, abusing quick text mistakes, remembering a song through text, and so on. The hip Grandparents are in on the texting too (check "Boom Box"). It's all covered here.

"Caps Lock"
Mom: i want to show you a video online, but the password isn't working
Me: is it on caps lock?
Mom: no it's on youtube

But the parents don't always have it wrong... in fact they are so on point that they end up playing their own children. There's no diss that packs quite the punch like that from a parent. But it's not just the bad but the annoyingly good, such as a Disney Play by Play and a parent texting their child to enjoy the wonderful Saturday morning ahead. Favorite texts include "Big Ups," "Unread," "Money," "Being Cool," "Mime," and "A-."

The more advanced crowd is given reason to constantly wonder how the amateur crowd comes to the conclusion to certain texts, such as sending a multiple choice or coded text and it's all laid out here. Let's not forget the things that people do with emoticons (read "Monkey Face"). But text messaging is just the beginning to how we communicate today. Social media has played a large role in our lives over the most recent years, so it's no wonder why texts dedicated to Facebook are showcased here. And how a VCR connects to Skype abd Quidditch to Twitter is beyond me. Confused? So was I. Must read texts in this collection include "Password III," "Confirming," "Social Dating Sites," "Number One Search Engine," "Chicken Parm Tonight" and "Divorce."

"NYD"
Mom: Happy hangover, sweetie. Be sure to clean up the bathroom. Love, mom.

No topic is off limits. Even special occasions such as National Grilled Cheese Day are not forgotten but the texts "Dad Gift Guide VII" and "Thanksgiving" take the cake. If you think that's funny, "Lag" in the Meal Times chapter will have you rolling on the floor laughing. There's also a chapter dedicated to Pet related text messages for all of you animal lovers. Perhaps the best chapter has to be "Wow" sharing some of the most bizarre texts imaginable. "Adrenaline" is definitely the most bizarre of the bunch. The text messages were so mind boggling that I was thrilled when the chapter was over and I could make sense of something... entertainment especially. The "28 Days Later" and "LOTR Wisdom" are perhaps the best of the Entertainment but the Harry Potter chapter brings the most entertainment of them all, especially with the recent end of the film series still fresh in my mind.

"Lost in Translation" and "SOS" will really make you chuckle and if you've ever wondered what it's like for your mother to try to hook you at the library, read
"Quiet Floor." "Church Guilt" is another favorite of mine and is sure to make you laugh no matter what your spiritual background. The end of the collection holds a glossary of emoticons and such which is more laughable than useful. Clearly. In the end though, what's so wonderful about this book is that these text messages bring out people's honest reactions... which sometimes leads to honest mistakes that many family members will never forget. But no matter the subject manner and the disconnect between generations, this collection exemplifies love and that is worth reading about.

When Parents Text: So Much Said...So Little Understood by Sophia Fraioli, Lauren Kaelin releases September 1, 2011.

DVD Review: Disney's Prom

This enchanting coming-of-age story is the perfect family-friendly film that captures all the anticipation, excitement, drama, and humor that accompany every young person’s journey through high school.



Release Date: August 30, 2011
Rating: PG
Running Time: 104 minutes

At “Prom”, every couple has a story and no two are exactly alike. For Nova Prescott (Aimee Teegarden), it’s a classic tale of opposites attracting when she finds herself drawn to the guy (Thomas McDonell) who gets in the way of her perfect prom. Share the laughter and the drama as secrets are brought to light, seemingly steady relationships unravel and new romance catches fire. Get ready for this hilariously heartfelt date with destiny featuring a hot ensemble cast of rising young stars and cool bonus features. There are hundreds of nights in high school, but there’s only one Prom!

PROM stars Aimee Teegarden (“Friday Night Lights”), Thomas McDonell (“The Forbidden Kingdom”), Danielle Campbell (“Prison Break”), Yin Chang (“Gossip Girl”), Nicholas Braun (“10 Things I Hate About You”), Jared Kusnitz (“The Secret Life of the American Teenager”), Jonathan Keltz (“Entourage”), De’Vaughn Nixon (“Sonny with a Chance”), Nolan Sotillo (“Corey and Lucas for the Win”), Cameron Monaghan­ (“Corey and Lucas for the Win”) and Raini Rodriguez (“I’m in the Band”).

Prom follows a group of students of various grades as senior prom quickly approaches. While Nova (Aimee Teegarden) may be the main character, this is very much an ensemble cast (and a diverse one at that, yay!) and every character's journey is just as captivating, if not more, especially since none of the characters are over dramatized. While there are no original aspects to a coming of age story such as this very wholesome prom piece right here, the comedy is striking and will give viewers quite a chuckle from time to time and there's still heart that is genuine and innocent... not contrived. Disney knows how to reel us in and feel connected to its characters, so no matter how many prom themed movies you've seen before, this one is worth the watch. One of the reasons why it has so much heart and is worth watching is because of its wholesome nature. This aspect makes this film so incredibly refreshing that it will remind viewers what a shame it is that more wholesome teen films aren't made today. It is just what the youth need to see today. Prom is a gem simply because of this reason alone. Oh and the music is fantastic! My only complaint is that the film runs at an hour and 43 minutes, making it about 20 minutes too long for my pleasure.

Favorite Quote: "Do all assigned books have to be torturously boring?"

Bonus Features:

Putting On Prom (5:59 minutes) - Producer, Justin Springer, Writer, Katie Wench, Direcor, Joe Nussbaum, and the cast members of Prom talk about the story of Prom, the casting, working with Nussbaum, and their own prom experiences in this feature. It's not exactly the most elaborate Making of Featurette but it is easily the most efficient time wise to keep the young viewers engrossed for as short amount of time as possible while getting something extra from the cast. Cast members that appear in the feature are Yin Chang, Joe Adler, Nolan Sotillo, Nicholas Braun, Janelle Ortiz, DeVaugn Nixon, Kylie Bunbury, Aimee Teegarden, Thomas McDonell, Raini Rodriguez, and Danielle Campbell.

Bloopers (2:32 minutes) - The bloopers are full of laughs, mishaps, line flubs, and more! It's just as cute as the film itself!

Own Prom on 2-Disc Blu-ray Combo Pack and DVD August 30, 2011.

Fit Gear Review: Antigua

As part of the "To Be Healthy Is" Campaign, I want to direct your attention to a company that is all about fitness and fashion! Antigua has the most fit collection of polos and more for all of you female golfers out there, thanks to its 2011 Antigua Women’s collection which is merchandised in three innovative groups — Dashing, Mischief and Dynamic.

Antigua’s Women’s Dashing Collection is designed to be opulent, sophisticated, refined and traditional. Traditional and sophisticated is what my family members pointed out when they saw me in my Antigua gear, wearing three pieces from the DESERT DRY™ XTRA-LITE line and one piece from the DESERT DRY line, both within the Dashing Collection.

Antigua’s Women’s Mischief Collection is all about being sporty, feminine, innovative and trendy. So clearly, this is the trendiest collection of the three. You readers may want to head your attention to this collection first and foremost when you head over to the official website to start your orders. Although Antigua’s Women’s Dynamic Collection is designed to be versatile, elegant, chic and fresh. So this collection may come in at a close second! No matter the collection you choose from, every polo is fit while also being comfortable and stretchy at the same time. Antigua has made sure that their clothes are functional and fashionable for the sport and have done a great job at doing such. So if you find yourself on the golf court soon getting your workout in, be sure to hit up Antigua for your fitness gear!

Remember to Shop Antigua!

DVD Review: HEY ARNOLD!: SEASON 1

Release Date: 08/09/11
Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 440 minutes

Hey Arnold!, one of the most beloved animated Nickelodeon series from the 1990s, arrives in stores nationwide for the first time on August 9, 2011, from Shout! Factory. Featuring all 20 hilarious episodes, Hey Arnold!: Season One follows the adventures of Arnold, the original football-headed boy’s life in the big city alongside his Grandpa, Grandma, Abner the pig and a host of other friends and neighbors. Long anticipated by fans, Hey Arnold!: Season One has not been available in stores until now. The four-disc DVD set has a suggested retail price of $29.93.

Like all of Nickelodeon’s classic shows, Hey Arnold!: Season One boasts an all-star voice cast which includes Toran Caudell (7th Heaven), Dan Castellaneta (The Simpsons, Futurama), Tress MacNeille (The Simpsons, Futurama), Jamil Walker Smith (Shark Tale) and Francesca Smith.

A favorite with viewers and critics alike, Hey Arnold! stars Arnold, a fourth grader who lives with his grandparents Phil and Gertrude, owners of the Sunset Arms boarding house. Each episode finds Arnold in a new, sticky situation, whether it’s helping out a schoolmate with their problems or dealing with his own. Unfortunately, Arnold’s predicaments are often started by Helga, a schoolmate who picks on Arnold and constantly bullies him. However, Helga only pretends to dislike Arnold to hide the fact that she is secretly in love with him!

Created by Craig Bartlett as a comic in 1986, Hey Arnold! debuted as an animated short for the Nickelodeon film Harriet the Spy in 1996. Hey Arnold! went on to air on Nickelodeon from 1996 to 2001. The show also aired on "Nick on CBS" from 2002 until 2004.



My memories of watching Hey Arnold! mainly appear as this: Watch the first story in its entirety and then fall asleep during the second story, the final half of the episode. I enjoyed the show but even then I saw the flaws that the show held which ended up making my interest for the show fall flat at times. For instance, the "Stoop Kid" story from Episode 3 was interesting because Arnold helped a kid face his fear and then the kid used his new found opportunity to harass kids. Arnold was disappointed but shrugged it off and walked home... and that was the end of the episode. He shrugged it off! Not only does Arnold appear to be too nonchalant in his hero ways, but there's a lot of bullying in the series and clearly, Helga is not the only one to blame. The show attempts to give off positive messages but is often overshadowed by its characters' actions which contradict the message or reverse any progress the message had at getting through. Good intentions are not enough for me so to watch the series again as an adult just made me squirm a little too much. I do have to remember though that while I still hold these qualities, I was much more simple minded and nonchalant as a child than I am now and cannot be disappointed that this show doesn't dig deeper. That said, this show took risks in the stories it told, so credit where credit is due. And the comedic bits did keep me on my toes! The comedy is just as sharp years later.

Speaking of funny, it's interesting that the balance of following Arnold and following Helga is much more equal than it should be. For a show called Hey Arnold!, one would think Arnold would be followed a little bit more, but there's an awful lot of screen time given to his crush who has the most annoying voice ever, bless her heart. This has nothing to do with the voice talent and everything to do with all that is Helga. But as far as the cast goes, I was surprised to find that Jamil Walker Smith ("Stargate Universe") played the voice of Gerald. I paid zero attention to the credits on the majority of shows that I watched back in the day, so finding out who rounded out the cast in my re-watch today has been a delight! Other familiar names who appear in an episode or two throughout the series (not necessarily season one) include Kathy Najimy, Mayim Bialik, Ron Perlman, Lacey Chabert, George Takei, and Jean Smart. Now as far as the visuals go, the animation looks just as good, if not better than it did when the series first aired on Nickelodeon. The sound quality is just as wonderful as well. And with all of this said, for any fan of the Nickelodeon classics, Hey Arnold! Season 1 is definitely a must have DVD for your collection because your DVD collection just wouldn't be the same without it.

Unfortunately, there are no Bonus Features on this DVD.

Own Hey Arnold! Season 1 on DVD today.

ID INVESTIGATES: 9/11 CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATORS

Nearing the 10th Anniversary of 9/11, there are going to be many specials on TV in the coming weeks and having watched this particular special already, I can tell you that Discovery's special, ID INVESTIGATES: 9/11 CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATORS is one to watch if you find yourself desiring to learn more about that fateful day.


ID INVESTIGATES: 9/11 CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATORS profiles the NYPD's elite Crime Scene Unit and its search for evidence and survivors in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Led by Detective Sergeant Joe Blozis, the Crime Scene Unit was tasked with a search of epic magnitude on the biggest crime scene investigation in history. While America absorbed the shock of the tragedy, Blozis and his officers hunted down clues to reveal crucial final moments of the hijacked planes and identify thousands of victims… as well as the terrorists themselves. This one-hour documentary spotlights the brave investigators who risked their lives and endangered their health to dig, sift, and uncover the dangerous remains of Ground Zero.

ID INVESTIGATES: 9/11 CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATORS Premieres Sunday, September 4, 2011 at 9/8c.

Trailer: Texas Killing Fields

Inspired by true events, this tense and haunting thriller follows Detective Souder (Sam Worthington), a homicide detective in a small Texan town, and his partner, transplanted New York City cop DetectiveHeigh (Jeffrey Dean Morgan) as they track a sadistic serial killer dumping his victims’ mutilated bodies in a nearby marsh locals call “The Killing Fields.”

Though the swampland crime scenes are outside their jurisdiction, Detective Heigh is unable to turn his back on solving the gruesome murders. Despite his partner’s warnings, he sets out to investigate the crimes. Before long, the killer changes the game and begins hunting thedetectives, teasing them with possible clues at the crime scenes while always remaining one step ahead. When familiar local girl Anne (Chloë Grace Moretz) goes missing, the detectives find themselves racing against time to catch the killer and save the young girl’s life.

Directed by Ami Canaan Mann, Produced by Michael Mann and Michael Jaffe, Texas Killing Fields also stars Jessica Chastain (Tree of Life, The Help), Jason Clarke (Public Enemies, FOX’s “Chicago Code”) and Stephen Graham (Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, HBO’s “Boardwalk Empire”). Executive Produced by Bill Block, Paul Hanson and Ethan Smith, with music by Dickon Hinchliffe.

Texas Killing Fields opens in select theaters October 7th, 2011.

Book Review: The Power of Six by Pittacus Lore

The Power of Six by Pittacus Lore is one of the most engaging action packed journeys you will follow this year. It is a must read of 2011 and it's not just because of the action as that is just part of the fun. If you've seen I Am Number Four the movie, read the book, or both and are debating on reading the second book... the stakes are raised so much in the sequel that it will make you wonder what Legacy Pittacus Lore was handed in the process of writing that made the The Power of Six so much better!



Hardcover: 416 pages
Publisher: HarperCollins
Release Date: August 23rd, 2011

I've seen him on the news. Followed the stories about what happened in Ohio. John Smith, out there, on the run. To the world, he's a mystery. But to me . . . he's one of us.

Nine of us came here, but sometimes I wonder if time has changed us—if we all still believe in our mission. How can I know? There are six of us left. We're hiding, blending in, avoiding contact with one another . . . but our Legacies are developing, and soon we'll be equipped to fight. Is John Number Four, and is his appearance the sign I've been waiting for? And what about Number Five and Six? Could one of them be the raven-haired girl with the stormy eyes from my dreams? The girl with powers that are beyond anything I could ever imagine? The girl who may be strong enough to bring the six of us together?

They caught Number One in Malaysia.
Number Two in England.
And Number Three in Kenya.
They tried to catch Number Four in Ohio—and failed.

I am Number Seven. One of six still alive.

And I'm ready to fight.

For fans who have read the first in the series, I Am Number Four, you may find the sequel to be even more fast paced and captivating. Lore goes back and forth between the points of view of Number Seven and Number Four, who is accompanied by Number Six and Sam. While Six and Four are training while on the run in America, Seven is not as prepared for the Mogadorians in Spain. Following Seven as she discovers a small handful of her Legacies, with no one on her side (or so it seems) made for quite a moving story. She clearly had the option to reject her mission, but she never for a moment went off the book. That's not to say that she did not make a few bad choices (as did John at times, one of which leads to a major downfall) but they knew their mission and moved ahead in it. Seven attempted to prepare for the war on her own as best she could and what became of her little preparation helped greatly. Of course the people that she meets when the battle comes to her in full force keep her alive in more ways than she could ever comprehend.

The key to change is letting go of fear.

What is so fascinating about this story as a whole is the constant cycle of Loric people and allies who are always watching (out for) each other. Their unity is something that is almost unfathomable because it is boundless and that is something that is unfortunately not a concept practiced as strongly here on Earth in many aspects. Anyway, as not to spoil the story about who exactly unites with who along the way, that's all I will say about that. Though as far as spoilers go, we do meet Number Nine and go inside the Mogadorians' lair. The lair reveals Bernie's Achilles heal so to speak which is not much considering how the Mogs designed their lair. It's really only a roadblock... (remember, there's lots of action) and we don't get to see if Bernie ever goes inside because of how the book ends...

The only limits of tomorrow are the doubts we have today.

Also worth mentioning is that back story has a more prominent role in this book. As a lover of character driven stories, I was very concerned about the character growth in the sequel since there wasn't as much as I would have liked in the first book of the series. My worries were washed away here. There is so much to learn about Seven, Six, Four, and Lorien in general and still so much more to question and anticipate. Henri's letter to Four, Six and Four's parents, the contents of the Chest (including the mysterious communication stone), the well being and whereabouts of Sam's dad, the involvement of Sarah with the Paradise, Ohio Police... there's so much revealed, it will blow your mind! If all of that and the many surprises in store are not enough, the love triangle becomes a love square. There's love and grief and much in between. The Power of Six delivers all that and more. It gets more and more intense as each page goes by which makes this one page turner you will not want to miss out on reading this summer. You'll be itching for book three's release. The suspense is killing me!

Own The Power of Six by Pittacus Lore August 23, 2011.

New Album From Jaci Velasquez Coming in February 2012

It brings me great delight to share the news that seven time GMA Dove Award Winner, Jaci Velasquez has signed a record deal with Inpop Records! Her first project with the label, Diamond, is slated for a February 7th, 2012 release!


Velasquez has sold over four million albums sold worldwide and has three RIAA certified platinum and three gold records to her name and that is only the beginning. After taking a few years off to marry and start a family, Velasquez is back in the music world and I couldn't be more excited!

But that's not all! She's also writing a book (publication date TBA) and is starring in two upcoming 2011 films, "The Encounter" and "Jerusalem Countdown."

Not only that but Jaci is currently co-hosting Salem Broadcasting’s syndicated network show, "Your Family Friendly Morning Show With Doug & Jaci Velasquez" which is something I did not know so I will have to tune in soon! This should keep me occupied until I've got a copy of her new album!

Congratulations to Jaci and stay tuned for more information on the new album!

Alexandra Chando In The Lying Game On ABC Family

Coming to ABC Family this Monday is the new one-hour scripted drama based on the novel of the same title by author, Sara Shepard (Pretty Little Liars). Having just read the novel earlier this month, I can say with assurance that I am very excited to see this fairly new book series come to life. Granted, some aspects of the book have been changed for the show but there's still a lot to look forward to. The (executive) producers boast credits that range from Ugly Betty, Desperate Housewives, and Melrose Place, to Gossip Girl and The Vampire Diaries. So we know that we are in good hands. Also, the plot is just surreal, no matter how you mix up what comes next.



The Lying Game follows Emma, a kind-hearted foster kid who learns she has an identical twin sister, Sutton. Sutton, unlike Emma, was adopted by wealthy parents and is seemingly living an ideal life. After their initial meeting, Sutton talks Emma into stepping into her life for a few days while she pursues a lead on the mysterious identity of their birth mother.

After Sutton inexplicably fails to return to the girls' designated meeting place, Emma must decide whether to come clean about her identity and risk her own safety in the hope of uncovering her twin sister's whereabouts, along with the truth about why they were separated in the first place.

The Lying Game" stars Alexandra Chando ("As The World Turns") as Emma/Sutton; Andy Buckley ("The Office") as Ted; Helen Slater ("Supergirl") as Kristin; Blair Redford ("90210") as Garrett; Sharon Pierre-Louis ("Lincoln Heights") as Nisha; Kirsten Prout ("Kyle XY") as Char; Alice Greczyn ("Lincoln Heights") as Mads; and Allie Gonino ("10 Things I Hate About You") as Laurel. I am only familiar with 2-3 of these names, the most familiar being Kirsten Prout who I am thrilled to see back on ABC Family. But it's Chando who will make or break it for me, as she plays the main characters, long-lost twin sisters, Emma Becker and Sutton Mercer.



Chando took some time off from set in Austin, TX to give a few details about the show. She says on the challenges of having dual roles, "To be able to develop two characters and kind of find different things about them and explore them each and every day has been incredible. It does come with its challenges, though. I have 15-hour work days and I’m working an awful lot compared to what I would be working if I was just playing one... It’s a challenge in the sense, besides the hours and the exhaustion, just trying to keep them straight sometimes."

On telling the two apart, she says, "I think the hair and makeup is definitely a key element, as well as the wardrobe. When we started, I sat down with our hair and makeup ladies and wardrobe and we kind of planned it out how we were going to do each character; who gets what makeup; who wears their hair differently and which way. But I also think on top of that Sutton talks a little bit differently. It’s not necessarily an accent thing. She talks just a little bit differently as far as she always has a little bit of a drawl, in a way. She kind of grew up in that very privileged way, so she talks in that kind of manner. Her posture is different. She’s definitely a little bit more polished."

On the characteristics of Emma and Sutton that she has brought to the table on her own:
I would definitely say for Emma, I try and bring a warmth to her and kind of a comedic lightness to her. She’s very smart. She’s intelligent. I think she’s one of those people that doesn’t realize how fantastic she really is in a way, which is interesting, and that’s fun to play. With Sutton, her characteristics are very different. I don’t know. Like I said, I’ve kind of drawn from the way I handle some emotional things to add to Sutton and kind of make her be a little bit of a stronger individual.

As for talk of the book and the series, Chando had this to say:

When we shot the pilot, which was in December, the first novel wasn’t out yet, so we didn’t get to read it until after the pilot was done being shot. But I did read the first one. I haven’t had a chance to read the second one yet, but I did read the first one and it was so helpful. It really helped paint the picture of who Emma was and where she came from and her upbringing and what she has kind of dealt with in the past.

The show does differ from the book. It’s a mystery and in order to keep fans intrigued and keep a television series going, we need to maintain that element of mystery... We did depart a little bit from the book, but it’s based on the characters and the lying games are mentioned.

So clearly there is a lot to look forward to and a lot to anticipate nervously. The series has received a 10 episode order and depending on its success, the first season could be extended, so be sure to tune in this Monday night to see what The Lying Game is all about! And be sure to pick up your copy of the book as well!

The Lying Game Series Premiere Airs Monday, August 15, 2011 at 9/8c on ABC Family.

Trailer: Tanner Hall

Earlier this week, the one sheet for Tanner Hall was released and we didn't have to wait long, as the trailer is now available for online viewing! Check it out:



Tanner Hall stars Rooney Mara, Georgia King, Brie Larson, Amy Ferguson, Tom Everett Scott, Amy Sedaris and Chris Kattan. The film was directed by Francesca Gregorini and Tatiana von Furstenberg.

Tanner Hall hits select theatres September 9th!

Emma Stone On Late Night With Jimmy Fallon

The Help is in theaters now!

DVD Review: Everwood The Complete Fourth Season

Release Date: August 2, 2011
Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 948 minutes

The final season of the series set in a welcoming town in the Rockies is all about finding oneself?and finding each other. Here, in the 5-Disc, 22-Episode Season Four, the unforgettable people of Everwood test the ties that bind them together in joy and tears, friendship and love. Drawn by his feelings for Amy, Ephram returns home and mentors a troubled piano prodigy. When Nina chooses Jake over him, Andy struggles to remain friends with the woman he loves. Bright and Hannah make their unlikely romance work. The Abbotts open their arms to a new child. Intriguing characters arrive and beloved characters depart. Say goodbye to the place and the people that won your heart and discover how everything turned out!

Having never seen an episode of Everwood until the Season Four DVD arrived at my door, I would now say that the series reminds me of a more mature, sophisticated,e and family oriented version of One Tree Hill as well as a less spiritually fulfilling and less busy 7th Heaven. That said, this season was a bit slow moving and dry. No matter how fast paced Scott Wolf's character seemed to be, no matter the fun banter back and forth between the doctors as well as the best friends (especially the guys), this season probably would not be my favorite if I had seen all four seasons. Also, the rekindling of the flame between Andy and Nina seemed rushed in the final episodes. Taking the cancellation news into account, given all that was going on with the network at the time, I can give it a pass. But I felt that I would have still been fulfilled had Andy not proposed so soon after Jake left Nina. Even with Andy in her back pocket, Nina moved on awfully quick.

The honesty in the characters and realism in the situations is so wonderfully crafted and portrayed, it is hard not to appreciate this series. It is so homey... and makes me want to live in a small town just like Everwood. Best of all, it's character driven. I am a big fan of character driven shows and this is one of them. Relationships are broken and mended and the state of mind that each character is in plays a bigger part in this process than typical eating ice cream on the couch scenes. There's so much more to that and that anguish is portrayed well here. Also, there are bits of humor here and there as well as Deadwood, Diane Lane, and Ethan Hawke references and even Nia Long as a guest star. So while there are a few aspects of the show that are a bit dull, the setting of Everwood is just as ordinary as it is extraordinary which plays off of the characters and situations as well. Keep in mind The classic WB tone here. With that said, long time Everwood fans have been waiting for the day that this DVD would be available for a couple of years now, but newcomers will enjoy it just the same.



Bonus Features:

Unaired Scenes (31:05 minutes total, approximately 19 scenes) - The first unaired scene on disc one shows Amy driving her mom home from an appointment in which everything about the drive irks Rose, so she decides to drive. Only, she is not strong enough to handle such heavy machinery and ends up getting her and her daughter in a fender bender. Amy takes the blame and it just makes for one intense scene. It is too bad this did not make it to the final product but it is great to see on the DVD. The first unaired scene on disc two takes place on campus as Bright and Ephram prepare to study, only Ephram has plans for a different study partner... Amy. This reveal and Bright's reaction after putting the pieces together is so natural and so well acted in just the right setting. I found everything about this scene likable and am so grateful to see this moment on the DVD. The balance of drama and comedy is wonderful here. On the other hand, I am glad that the scenes with Nina and Jake on here were cut because it takes away what's so special about the way that we all saw it air. First, there's a scene in which Nina finds out about Jake's day off with his brother a different way and then there are two scenes at the rehab that Jake is supposed to be at. These were my least favorite scenes for reasons that add up to the flow of the episode being all wrong with them in it.

The first two unaired scenes on disc three are at the practice. Andy and Dr. Abbott's chemistry is so naturally playful and Dr. Abbott's offbeat comments I could listen to all day, so I especially enjoyed these scenes. The scene between Amy and her mother at the cafe was also particularly adorable. In fact, every scene on this disc excluding the scene with Delia had depth and were intriguing. Perhaps my favorite unaired scene on the DVD comes from disc four in which Amy and her mother have the most unforgettable mother-daughter talk. It is so sweet! The other three scenes on this disc are engaging, yes, but do not have the heartwarming quality that the very first unaired scene does. I won't spoil what it is about, simply go ahead and watch it!

Alternate Series Finale (9:58 minutes) - On the final disc, there is an alternate series finale, which may have aired as a season finale had the show not been cancelled by The CW in the midst of The WB and UPN merge which created The CW. I much rather enjoyed the series finale, with the happy endings and all. But the alternative left wonderful cliff hangers had the show indeed returned. However, the show ended at a good time I think and I am pleased with the series finale, so I have no need to catch the alternate finale and ponder "what ifs" all day long.

Own Everwood The Complete Fourth Season on DVD today.

2011 NBC Fall Preview Show

I am really looking forward to Smash and Grimm. Up All Night and Prime Suspect appear to be entertaining and engaging shows as well. What new NBC series are you looking forward to?

The Help Red Carpet Premiere

The Help is a timeless and universal story about the ability to create change and is one of the must see movies of the year and must read novels period. Having enjoyed the novel so much, I have been very excited about the film coming to fruition and it is finally here! Check out a few images of the cast and author, Kathryn Stockett at the premiere below:

Based on one of the most talked about books in years and a #1 New York Times best-selling phenomenon, “The Help” stars Emma Stone (“Easy A”) as Skeeter, Academy Award®–nominated Viola Davis (“Doubt”) as Aibileen and Octavia Spencer as Minny—three very different, extraordinary women in Mississippi during the 1960s, who build an unlikely friendship around a secret writing project that breaks societal rules and puts them all at risk. From their improbable alliance a remarkable sisterhood emerges, instilling all of them with the courage to transcend the lines that define them, and the realization that sometimes those lines are made to be crossed—even if it means bringing everyone in town face-to-face with the changing times.









The Help is in theaters now and The Help by Kathryn Stockett is in book stores now.

Fashion Spotlight: Karsyn Landree

BTS: Vineyard | Womenswear Summer 2011 from Two Inch Cuffs on Vimeo.

Follow Karsyn on Tumblr.

Trailer: THE ODD LIFE OF TIMOTHY GREEN

What's a movie starring some of my favorites, Jennifer Garner, Rosemarie DeWitt, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Common? The upcoming dramedy, The Odd Life Of Timothy Green which is sure to be one of the most magical and thrilling adventures this year. Check out the trailer:

Academy Award®–nominated director/writer Peter Hedges (“Dan in Real Life,” What’s Eating Gilbert Grape?”) brings enchantment to the screen with “The Odd Life of Timothy Green,” an inspiring, magical story about a happily married couple, Cindy and Jim Green (Jennifer Garner and Joel Edgerton), who can’t wait to start a family but can only dream about what their child would be like. When young Timothy (CJ Adams) shows up on their doorstep one stormy night, Cindy and Jim—and their small town of Stanleyville—learn that sometimes the unexpected can bring some of life’s greatest gifts.

Starring: Jennifer Garner, Joel Edgerton, CJ Adams, Ron Livingston, Dianne Wiest, Odeya Rush, Rosemarie DeWitt, Lin-Manuel Miranda, M. Emmet Walsh, Lois Smith and Common
Directed by: Peter Hedges

The Odd Life Of Timothy Green is coming soon to theaters nationwide.

All New Promos For The Office Are Here!

Find out who the new boss is on The Office Thursday, September 22, 2011 at 9/8c on NBC.

Blu-Ray Review: Mars Needs Moms

Release Date: August 9, 2011
Rating: PG
Running Time: Approximately 88 minutes

Take out the trash, eat your broccoli — who needs moms anyway? Nine-year-old Milo (Seth Green) finds out how much he needs his mom (Joan Cusack) when she's nabbed by Martians who plan to steal her mom-ness for their own young. In a race against time and oxygen, his quest to save her knows no bounds. And with some unexpected help, Milo just might find his way back to her — in more ways than one.

Mars Needs Moms is brought to life by the performances of Seth Green (TV‘s ―Family Guy‖) as Milo, Joan Cusack (Toy Story 2 & 3) as Milo‘s Mom, Dan Fogler (Kung Fu Panda, Robot Chicken) as Gribble and Elisabeth Harnois (A Single Man, TV‘s ―90210‖) as Ki and is directed by Simon Wells (The Time Machine, The Prince of Egypt) and produced by Robert Zemeckis (Disney‘s A Christmas Carol, Forrest Gump).

Having never read the picture book, "Mars Needs Moms" by Berkeley Breathed, I went into the film blind and enjoyed every moment, even as predictable as it was. One of the aspects about this fast paced film that makes it so unique and attention grabbing is that the live action has been turned into animation. As if the setting of space weren't cool enough. While this film is nowhere near Robert Zemeckis 's best work (remember The Polar Express?), everything about this film will win over the younger audience. Add onto the fact that the script has emotions and the actors do a fabulous job connecting with those emotions and really bringing their characters to life. While there are some aspects that are confusing (the concept of oxygen in space and the taking of moms from Earth when SPOILER ALERT there once were moms and happy families on Mars), but if you don't think too much about it, the film is easily enjoyable. There's nonstop adventure, quite a few laughs, a playful relationship with Milo and Ki, and quite an emotional journey taken. While not as complex and compelling as I imagined it to be, surely this film may have a bigger impact on the younger audience. The lesson learned may not necessarily seem profound right away, but if kids watching take this lesson into action, it will have a long lasting benefit on their lives which is something that not many films can do. Overall, Mars Needs Moms is a great watch and definitely worth buying this summer.

Bonus Features:

Life On Mars: The Full Motion Capture Experience - A fun video introduction was taken in the recording studio by director/screenwriter, Simon Wells, and cast members Dan Fogler and Seth Green. After the introduction, viewers get to watch Mars Needs Moms in two forms, the final cut on the main screen and the rough cut or motion capture version at the small right corner of the screen while Wells, Fogler, and Green conduct a commentary. Hearing the guys talk about the process of making the film, their fellow cast and crew members, and so much more while watching two versions of the film simultaneously made for one incredible and unforgettable viewing experience. This is definitely the most complex commentary that I have viewed all year because I also got to see an entire film on the motion capture front and it is only thanks to owning the Blu-Ray edition. What an incredibly entertaining commentary and eye opening motion capture experience this is. This bonus feature alone is worth the purchase of a Blu-ray player.

Fun With Seth - Viewers get to see a few minutes of Seth Green and Dan Fogler goofing around on set, from singing made up songs to creating their own ninja fight. Clearly, the two had a lot of fun in between takes and had just as much fun making the film as it was watching. Also appearing in this feature are Elisabeth Harnois, Director/Screenwriter, Simon Wells, and First AD, David H. Venghaus Jr.

Martian 101 – Members of the cast as well as director/screenwriter, Simon Wells discuss how they came up with their own unique Martian language. It is fun and exciting to see a bit of the cast in studio making these sounds, this new language of theirs and also bringing it to live in their sit down interview to discuss the language. The cast does not go too deep into explaining the language, but you will pick up a few things from Dialogue Coach, Stephen Kearn. Also appearing in this feature are screenwriter, Wendy Wells and cast members, Elisabeth Harnois, Mindy Sterling, and Kevin Cahoon.

Extended Opening with Simon Wells Introduction - What's wonderful about Wells' introduction about the extended opening is that he tells the viewers why the footage that did not make the final cut was removed. An introduction just would not seem complete without a reasoning, so it was reaffirming to see him get right to the point. Know that the footage is not only very dark, as he mentions, but also has unfinished visuals. I love when the visuals are not always completed in special features because it helps me appreciate all of the stages of this creation even more. Whether or not it takes away from the final footage is up to.

Deleted Scenes with Simon Wells Introductions - There are 6 deleted scenes on the Blu-Ray edition with very brief introductions by Wells. The scenes are shown at various stages in the visuals, from being finished to just the actor's video reference cut together. "Angry George Ribble" seems to have the most stages of the visuals there, so it's quite interesting to see. "Gribble Growing Up" is scene where Dan Fogler shines on the set and there is a small split screen at times of the scene in more advanced stages of production so that we can understand better what is happening. Fogler gives an incredibly moving performance even when you as the viewer are unsure what he is doing since we know that what he is doing is such an internal and external struggle. Still with that said, none of the scenes stood out enough for the overall story, so it's a good thing none of these made it to the final cut. The scenes are titled, "Begonia Attack," "Adlibs From Gribble's Lair," "Swinging Bridge," "Angry George Ribble," "Gribble Growing Up," and "Mars Monorail."

Own Mars Needs Moms on 4 or 2 Disc Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD, and Movie Download August 9, 2011.

Tanner Hall One Sheet

Tanner Hall, a spirited and poignant coming of age tale about complicated teen friendships and the 2010 Gen Art film festival winner is coming to select theaters next month. With United States of Tara cancelled, I was wondering what project I would next see Brie Larsen in and this one seems to be a winner! Read the synopsis below and click the one sheet below to enlarge.



As Fernanda (Rooney Mara) enters her senior year at Tanner Hall—a sheltered boarding school in New England—she’s faced with unexpected changes in her group of friends when a childhood acquaintance, the charismatic yet manipulative trouble-maker Victoria (Georgia King), appears. Shy and studious, Fernanda is usually the voice of reason among her friends—adventurous and sexy Kate (Brie Larsen) and tomboy Lucasta (Amy Ferguson)—but when she begins a complicated friendship with Gio (Tom Everett Scott), an older family friend, she decides it’s finally time to take some risks. Jealous of Fernanda’s exciting relationship, Victoria begins to sabotage Fernanda’s plans and plots to publicly humiliate her. Meanwhile, Lucasta struggles with her newfound feelings towards another classmate, and mischievous Kate is too preoccupied with making her teachers nervous to pay much attention to her actual classes. However, as each of the girls flirt with adulthood, they realize they still need each other to help get through their first grown-up decisions—and the consequences they bring.

Directed by Francesca Gregorini and Tatiana von Furstenberg, Tanner Hall also stars Amy Sedaris and Chris Kattan. Featuring designs by Diane von Furstenberg Studios. Produced by Julia R. Snyder, Tatiana von Furstenberg and Francesca Gregorini. Executive producer Richard L. Bready.

Tanner Hall hits select theatres September 9th!

Winners Chosen for Bryce Dallas Howard's Project Imagin8ion

Canon, Freestyle Productions, Ron Howard, and Bryce Dallas Howard ("The Help") have selected the eight winners of the “Project Imagin8ion” Contest from 96,362 submissions.

Launched on May 22, photographers of all levels were invited to submit their most imaginative photographs based on a series of eight separate movie themes, each one a core tenet of storytelling, to ultimately inspire Ron Howard’s short film. The “Project Imagin8ion” film will be directed by one of today’s most versatile and dynamic young talents, Bryce Dallas Howard.



Winners:
Walter Arnold of Hendersonville, N.C., winner in the SETTING category for the photo, “The Final View”

Jen Berry of Los Angeles, winner in the CHARACTER category for the photo, “Dreams”

Mikey L’Heureux of Tarzana, Calif., winner in the MOOD category for the photo, “City Lights”

Brooke Shaden of Canoga Park, Calif., winner in the TIME category for the photo, “Running From Wind”

Alan Michael Martelly of Peachtree City, Ga., winner in the GOAL category for the photo, “My Word”

Lexia Frank of Wesley Chapel, Fla., winner in the RELATIONSHIP category for the photo, “Too Much”

Chris Wehner of Broken Arrow, Okla., winner in the OBSTACLE category for the photo, “Yea, Though I Walk”

Kelly Shipp of Conway, Ark., winner in the category of THE UNKNOWN for the photo, “Where One Day Ends, One Day Begins”

Congratulations to you all! The eight winning photographs can now be seen here What remarkable photographs they are. I cannot wait to see Howard's finished product based on these images.

TEEN CHOICE 2011 – Powered by YOU!

Keeping in line with the GREEN IT. MEAN IT. Campaign, Fox has partnered with Global Inheritance to produce one of the greenest awards shows of the year -- TEEN CHOICE 2011!





Leading up to the show, both amateur and experienced riders have been pedalling 40 Schwinn bikes hooked up to Global Inheritance’s “Tour de Energy” bike station, at the Hollywood & Highland Complex Central Courtyard, to produce kinetic energy that is converted to electricity and pumped back into the grid. The site also features the Energy Playground which includes Energy Swings, an Energy See-saw and the Human Hamster Wheel. The 100 kilowatt hours of energy generated by riders, in conjunction with power from local wind farms, will ensure that TEEN CHOICE 2011 is run entirely on renewable energy. The rider that generates the most power each day wins a free Schwinn bike and all participants are eligible to win additional TEEN CHOICE 2011 prizes! To watch it all take place, be sure to visit the Hollywood & Highland Complex Central Courtyard tomorrow frm 10am - 6pm and Sunday from 10am - 5pm.

Be sure to watch the Teen Choice Awards Sunday night at 8/7central on FOX!