Pop Culture

Suspension of Disbelief: Hollywood’s Fail on Marriage

Hollywood gets a lot of things right. Especially lately. Films are based in reality more than ever before. Case and point is the latest James Bond film, Skyfall. There were some things, obviously, that required a high suspension of disbelief for sure (surviving the fall off the train, the villain’s plans, etc.). But besides that, I’d say most of Skyfall was grounded in reality. Which besides Casino Royale, had never really happened before in the James Bond franchise.

Argo is another great film set it a realistic world. Sure, it was based on a true story which always helps. But that’s never stopped Hollywood before from changing just about everything to make the story more palpable and interesting. See: Any horror movie “based” on a true accounts. Argo was just real. It felt like you were watching the story as it was truly unfolding. It was grounded in reality.

But with marriage, man, they just don’t get it. I never noticed before I was married, but now every time I see a portrayal of married couple on the “big screen” I just shake my head.

That’s not what it’s like! That’s not what it’s about!

Hollywood writes marriage (and love for that matter) from the individual perspective. “How can I be fulfilled?” “What makes me most happy?” It’s like they’re writing about some unfamiliar foreign concept they’ve read about in books.

So here is my best example. Sure, it’s based on a mid-size indie film you probably haven’t heard of because it wasn’t that successful. It’s the 2011 film Salmon Fishing in the Yemen, starring Ewan McGregor and Emily Blunt. First off, this movie is just not very good, so take that into account. But I bring it up because of how the story settles. Before I tell you what happens, make sure and read this review quote in the movie poster below. The one about it being a, “feel good charmer.”

(Spoiler) Salmon Fishing in the Yemen

So it’s a romantic movie that tries to bring together Ewan McGregor and Emily Blunt. The problem is that he is married and she is committed to a soldier (who becomes a POW). At the end of the movie, they finally realize that they are in “love.” So Ewan leaves his wife and Emily leaves the soldier (literally the next day after he returns).

Ummmm, we’re supposed to feel good about this? As an audience member, I’m not sure I want to root for these people.

All they are doing is chasing their lusts and leaving their families. That’s not what marriage is about. It’s not what love is about. True love, marriage, and relationships, it’s about commitment. Long-term. Seeing through the selfishness and getting through to the other side.

This is what Hollywood doesn’t get right and probably never will. I guess that’s ok. As long as the viewer learns to see it for what it is. Fiction.

Unfortunately, the more we see this stuff acted out on the big screen, the more we become desensitized to this childish behavior. We accept it as true and normal.

I’m not saying married people should stop watching movies. I love the movies. I’m a film nerd for sure. What I’m saying is, may be we should be a little cautious of what we have become to accept as normal.

Modern cinema: based in reality, just not in relationships. It’s as if our suspension of disbelief has shifted away from giant explosions and cool gadgets, to what we now call a relationship.

My Top 5 Podcasts

I have one of those iPod Classics. Ancient and useless. Scratch on the screen. You know how it goes. In an attempt to make my Classic more relevant, I found an unused menu button. Enter podcasts.

You may already be on the podcast train, maybe not. I tend to be late on trends. Either way, here are my top 5 favorite podcasts:

This American Life 

I know I’m not alone on this. This American Life is one of the most (if not the most) beloved radio program in the country. If you’re like me, then you probably never gave it a fair shot. This podcast version is a great way to keep updated with the show, and gives you the ability to listen whenever you want.

Like a modern NPR Mr. Rogers, host Ira Glass welcomes you in and takes you on a journey. Some stories fiction; most are not. The segments will make you laugh, others cry, others squeal. What’s most amazing is This American Life’s ability to churn out high level-original storytelling week-after-week, year-after-year.

Planet Money (NPR)

Plant Money is great for any business minded, economically charged person. But if you’re not, it’s still great. My wife could care less about politics and economics but still loves this program. They do a wonderful job of picking interesting stories and tying them to relevant economic themes.

It’s a great tool for someone, like myself, trying to stay informed on the economy, though gets sick of the bias heavy, sensational media coverage. Even if you hate economics, give it a shot!

Thrilling Adventure Hour

You may or may not know about this program. I had no idea it existed till a few months ago. Most of my friends did. Thrilling Adventure Hour is a comedy sketch podcast, filmed live in front of a studio audience and created by Ben Acker and Ben Blacker. Their tag line is: “New time podcasts in the style of old-time radio.”

It can be hit or miss, but stick with it for a couple weeks. You’ll soon be introduced to all of the hilarious, reoccurring characters. Sparks Nevada: Marshall on Mars, Captain Laserbeam, and my favorite: Frank and Sadie Doyle (starring Paul F. Thompkins).

Relevant Podcast

There’s not much to say about this one. It’s just freakin’ hilarious. It’s from the makers of Relevant Magazine, and regularly has four people you will grow to love. If you’re a twenty to thirty year-old something, slightly spiritual and love to “goof”, then this is probably right up your alley.

Relevant is a religious magazine, but they do a great job at not being lame about it. It’s simply addictive. There’s great music, movie suggestions, and hilarious weekly “slices.” Also a plus are the featured guests, ranging from authors to musicians to Junglebird himself.

Freakonomics Radio

From the people who brought you the book and that awesome documentary, comes Freakonomics Radio. Though it revolves around economics and business markets, I would never define it as a business podcast.

Rather, I would say it’s a thought-engaging conversational starting piece of radio. They “reveal the hidden side of everything.” If you enjoyed the book or the documentary (currently on Netflix), then you will definitely love the podcast.

You may not agree with everything stated or proposed, but that’s not the point. Instead, apply the theories, test them, and come to your own conclusion. After all, that’s what critical thinking is?

Just a note: Usually they rotate their programming. Every other week is a full episode (usually 30 minutes) and in between weeks are five minute segments released originally on NPR’s Marketplace.

Other Notables:

  • The /filmcast-Movies
  • Radiolab-Science, stories
  • Entreleadership-Business, leadership, Dave Ramsey
  • This Is Your Life-Intentional Leadership, Life Advice, Blogging
  • NPR Pop Culture Happy Hour-Exactly what it sounds like
  • Entrepreneurial Though Leaders-Speeches, Business

 

Any suggestions? Let me know your favorites!

Vote No on Prop Poopstick: Obama or Mr. Burns

The political cycle which gets our president elected is a vicious, deceitful, and economically inefficient one. So on Tuesday I probably wont support it. Here’s some things to think about:

Now before I go on I must clarify that, yes, I will be voting on Tuesday. In national election time it’s easy to pack the term “voting” into “presidential voting”. I’m convincing myself to stop that. So when I say I wont vote for a president, it doesn’t mean I wont vote locally and regionally. So CHILL.

Primary

A few months ago I had a conversation with a nice, older lady who happened to be a Ron Paul evangelist. I remember her telling me “Mitt Romney couldn’t be trusted,” and that he was “no different than Obama.”

Recently, I saw her again and asked about election day and what she would do. I was expecting a lament about the country’s unfair election cycle and invitation to protest.

“Well,” she replied, “Mitt’s better than who we have in there. AND he’s a businessman.” I was shocked. Where was the conviction? What happened to being an evangelist? Can Fox News really sway people that fast?

Finally it hit me; this lady wasn’t intentionally selling out her values, she was just doing what she thought was normal. I guess it makes sense to vote for Romney if you don’t like Obama, but what if you also don’t like Romney? Then it doesn’t make sense. What about a good third option? If we’re to keep in line with the high standards of checks and balances our country is known for, shouldn’t we have a legitimate third choice?

I find the primaries are similar in experience to watching Joe Carnahan’s 2011 thriller The Grey. Characters are introduced only to be eaten alive by wolves.

Money 

I’m not the first to complain about this, I’m sure I wont be the last. The Center For Responsive Politics (non-partisan based) has released a survey stating over $1 billion has been spent on the presidential election so far. That is kind of a lot to spend on T.V. commercials and door hangers.

How about a cap?

As the election draws near, and the ads become more frequent, every commercial, phone call, or door hanger is theoretically more futile than the last. Any entry level marketing class will warn about loosing a message in the noise. Economically speaking, it’s an inefficient way to spend a billion dollars.

These are the people we elect to cut the deficit.

Debt

This brings me to my last and final point. If none of my central concerns are satisfactorily being addressed, such as realistic plans to solve the debt crisis, then why would I still vote? You’re not offering to solve the issues I believe are important. Either of you.

I don’t care about gas prices. I don’t care about binders full of women. Let’s talk about things you can actually effect. Otherwise, if you have no real impact in my life, I have no need to vote for you.

I’m trying not to ramble so I will stop here. What are your reasons for voting/not voting?

Netflix Treasures: Top 6 Halloween Picks

Looking for a good scare this Halloween? Too lazy to put on pants? Time to stay in! Netflix isn’t known for it’s selection, but never fear. If you look hard, there are some great choices.

Here are my six ghoulish picks for your Halloween night in.

The Fog (1980) 

I’m not afraid to admit how much this movie scared the begeebies out of me as a kid. It’s based in a small California coast town with monsters in the fog. So yes, when you grow up in a small California coast town with lots of fog, you tend to hide under your sheets between midnight and 1AM. More like, California “Ghoast” town.

It’s a classic 80’s scary movie. Directed and written by John Carpenter, staring legendary scary-movie actress Jamie Lee Curtis. Cheesy enough to watch with a group for some laughs but scary enough to watch by yourself or with one other.

The X-Files: Bad Blood (Season 5: Ep 12) Bad Blood is an incredibly original stand alone episode co-starring Luke Wilson and Patrick Renna (of The Sandlot fame) and written by Breaking Bad creator Vince Gilligan. It’s seriously SO good. One of my favorite episodes of all time.

It’s quirky, dark, funny, and scary. Most importantly, you don’t need to be an X-Files nerd to enjoy it. But of course, I’ll always recommend it. It’s also a good change of pace for those sick of tasteless gore and stupid naked girls.

The Twilight Zone: Nightmare at 20,000 Feet (Season 5, Ep 3)

“There is something on the wing… some … THING.” What the Shat is on the wing!?

Thank you William Shatner. Thank you so much. There are so many good lines that just chill your spine, especially when delivered by the Shat himself. “It is real! There’s a man out there! A gremlin…” This episode, amongst a few others, is directed by Richard Donner which could be a reason it has so much staying power.

If all else fails, just throw a season of The Twilight Zone on. “Wouldn’t you at least consider the possibility?”

Scream 2 (1997) 

This sequel doesn’t get nearly enough credit. It has tons of character (and characters!) that really make the movie work. There is great humor and cheesy kill scenes. What more could you ask for (besides Scream 1?). To be fair, Scream is one of my favorite movies. In another words, the sequel may not be as enjoyable to a first time viewer of the franchise.

The final act is also pretty ridiculous and almost ruins the entire movie. The killers chosen could’ve been so much better, especially considering the great group of suspects Wes Craven presents throughout the film. Still a fun watch though.

Psych: Tuesday the 17th (Season 3: Ep 15) 

If you’re not on the Psych train yet, you need to get going. What a great show! This episode is perfect for those desiring more laughs than scares, but still want a Halloween vibe. There are some awesome throwbacks to Friday the 13th, other slasher classics, with a fun “who dunnit?” plot as well.

As if you needed another reason to watch Psych?

Sherlock: The Hounds of Baskerville (Season 2: Ep 2)

So we’ve covered ghosts, serial killers, and vampires. Why not leave the werewolves to Sherlock? You may have already seen this, as it is one of the best shows on TV, but it’s definitely worth a re-watch on Halloween.

I won’t say much more about the plot, as shows like this are best knowing next to nothing going in. But man, it’s spooky. If you haven’t seen this show yet, it’s worth investing your time on both seasons. The scariest thing? Season 3 is still a full year away.

 

Prometheus Review: The Great White Hype

Expectations. They ruin everything. Relationships, fake meat, summer blockbuster movies… I often think about how often expectations factor into the general film review. This brings up a couple issues:

Can critics honestly review an over-hyped movie?
If they have bias, should we throw out the entire review?
Is it possible to honestly review an overhyped movie?

Remember Radiohead and that little album In Rainbows? There was a nine day notice of its release. Remember what happened? It was an instant classic. In Rainbows was every where, making the band more money than any album of theirs before ever. It was adored by fans across the board and revitalized the group into a new decade.

So this begs the question: What if Radiohead gave us six months notice? Would the response have been the same or would our expectations have ruined it?

With that in mind, I’d love you to stop, take a moment, and think about Prometheus. You might hate it, you might love it. Most people seem to state it as a “missed opportunity” from director Ridley Scott to revamp the sic-fi genre and create a new classic. To me, that sounds like insider movie-critic bull shit.

I disagree with just about all of it. 

Recently, I watched Prometheus for the first time (yes, six months later). My expectations were gone. My appetite was ready. All I wanted was a solid science-fiction film to break my routine of Psych on Netflix and fill me with wonder. So my wife and I rented the Blu Ray and loved almost every minute of it.

Are there problems? Of course. The characters do stupid stuff, nothing really makes sense or is explained, the aliens look a little funny… It’s not perfect by any means but why would I expect it to be?

Explanations

I had a good friend once tell me, “signs take all the guess work out of life.”

This can be true for movies as well. Why are we obsessed with knowing all the answers? I’ve always been intrigued by movies that don’t explain everything. It’s more realistic. I’ll give you a good for instance: Why would we know where the Cloverfield alien was from? Wouldn’t we all just run for our lives in utter chaos?

Speaking of aliens.

Prometheus was a great film. I don’t have a rating system, but if I did, it would be 4 weird white alien guys out of 5. After seeing the blu ray special features, there is a little frustration over the choices of deleted/alternate scenes that could’ve explained better or added more substance. But when all is said in done, we must take what Ridley Scott chose as the final cut and make our opinion.

It’s definitely not perfect. But beautiful, scary, introspective? Yes. And I would call that good art.

4 weird white alien guys out of 5.

Best of 2011: Music and Beer

For those of you who can’t get through the holidays without reading someone’s opinion on insignificant products in regards to the wide spectrum of life, here is my “best of” list.

Really though, I believe it’s a healthy practice to look back on oneself at year’s end. Rediscovering and reflecting over what I’ve spent my money, time, and ears on over the course of a year is something I’ve always enjoyed.

Now that it’s almost over, were the things my heart desired worth all the fuss? Did it last more than two weeks in my Ipod? (Yes I’m still rocking an Ipod, not Ipad, Itouch, or Iphone. I’m cool like that).

As I get older, I find myself not purchasing as much music or seeing as many movies as I used to. So this year, I decided to include some other things I’m starting to enjoy, including but not limited to: beer, old vinyl records, as well as disappointing albums that made me want to punch walrus’ in their teeth. (more…)