Thank God it's the last night of the Winter Games. Now we can get back to real life. Here's what's on:
8:00
Watch this: "The Amazing Race" (CBS). The teams exit Chile and head to Argentina.
Also on: Winter Olympics Closing Ceremony. It's the passing of the Olympic flag!
9:00
Watch this: "Desperate Housewives" (ABC). Gaby moves in with Bob and Lee to avoid catching chicken pox.
Tape that: "Undercover Boss" (CBS). The owner of burger chain White Castle works undercover in his restaurant.
10:00
Watch this: "Brothers & Sisters" (ABC). Luc's visa problems create a dilemma for Sarah.
Tape that: "Cold Case" (CBS). The team attends the wedding of a colleague.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Friday, February 26, 2010
The widow maker
Only a few days left in the Winter Olympics. Two things I have learned from these games: Speedskater Shani Davis is sort of a jerk and the two-man luge has to be one of the most homo-erotic events I have ever seen. Let's wrap this up, NBC. Time to get back to the real stuff, like ...
"Survivor" (CBS, Thurs., 8:00): Oh, what a tangled web we weave when first we get rid of the strong players and leave all the girls behind. In a story as old as Adam and Eve, the women of "Survivor" continue to lead the male castaways out of the Garden of Eden and into a torch-snuffing pit of humiliation. Resident black widow Parvati, left, has left a wake of men in her path. For some reason, men find her incredibly charming and she doesn't mind using her "assets" to get what she wants. But more about her later.
After the Heroes return from Tribal Council, Tom tells James he could've been a little more gentle in his tone with the ousted Stephenie. "I just wanna win," James says. J.T. pulls Tom aside and offers an apology for breaking his promise and stabbing him in the back by siding with his other alliance. And poor, poor Colby is letting his moral compass get the best of him. He thinks the game is bringing out qualities in him that he wasn't ready for this time around.
The next morning, all is quiet around the Heroes beach. Rupert secretly wished for rain because it would force them all to spend time together in the shelter. Instead, they are all off doing their own thing around camp. Luckily, some wayward chickens make their way into their camp and the guys all join together in catching them. Pause it: Nothing brings people together like fried chicken. Seriously. OK, maybe pizza. Tom proves he's still got the midas touch when he catches one with his quick hands. Rewind: Remember how he caught that baby shark on his season using his bare hands and his psychic powers?
With two straight wins under their belts, the Villains are still riding high. Boston Rob makes a very astute observation when he tells us that the way to figure out alliances is by watching to see who sleeps next to whom at night. Of course, who better to know than B-Rob. He is, after all, the guy who lost to his future wife Ambuh. Jerri is snuggled up next to Coach while Parvati is putting the moves on Russell. Pause it: Now I'm not one to gossip (much) but if I'm not mistaken, Russell has a wife and four kids. Why is he rubbing up on Parv like he's trying to build a fire on her arm? But it back in the sling, buddy. Coach, who somehow is the voice of reason, can see how people are mesmerized by Parv's charm and warns Russell to be careful with how the tribe perceives his relationship with her. Russell, on the other hand, is too preoccupied with proving that B-Rob isn't running the Villains' camp. He resorts to his "mind-control" tactics and hides the tribe's machete. He reasons that people will go crazy and it will cause dissension among the castaways.
At the immunity/reward challenge, it's a round of Sumo-style mud jousting, with the first team to eight points winning another safety along with luxury items from home, a week's worth of rice and coffee. Pause it: These people aren't brushing their teeth and you want to mix that with coffee breath? Good Lord!! The match-ups are pretty even, but there were some who didn't stand a chance against their opponents (James and Randy? Really?) Candice took Parvati down in a scrappy battle while Jerri basically threw herself in the mud running from Cirie. Coach thought he had the upper hand on Rupert, but was called for a do-over after using his arm to push Rupert from the podium. If you listened to James yelling from the sidelines, you knew the Heroes came to work out some aggression. "Get yo ass up!" he yells at Coach. "Whoop her ass!" he instructs Cirie. The Heroes rout the Villains, 8-0, giving them their first immunity win.
Back at camp, the Villains quickly begin tossing names around. Randy, right, is the o
bvious choice. He's the oldest player in the game and has no real alliances with anyone. But Randy knows that the girls will run the game if they don't eliminate the biggest social threat: Parvati. Tyson and Coach both want her gone. "Fear has never controlled me; flirting has never controlled me," Coach tells her. Jerri also goes gunning for her after Parv tries to bully her into revealing her vote.
At Tribal Council, Probst asks how much past relationships come into play when multiple players have been in the game multiple times. Most of the tribe is concern that Parvati has friends on the Heroes team, but B-Rob points out the advantage of going into the merge with someone who knows the other team. Others point out that Parv is also a previous winner. None of that seems to matter much though, as they all vote Randy out of the game. He shows his anger by tossing his team buff into the flames on his way out. BOOYAH!
Turn that up: Funniest line of the night goes to Jeff Probst. After calling a do-over in the Rupert/Coach match up, Coach gives him the finger and Probst tells him to "Take that anger and point it to the pirate, not me." Runner-up goes to Tyson. After losing to the Heroes, he says, " I guess they all ate steroid sandwiches ... I worried for their sanity."
CHANNEL SURFING
"Survivor" (CBS, Thurs., 8:00): Oh, what a tangled web we weave when first we get rid of the strong players and leave all the girls behind. In a story as old as Adam and Eve, the women of "Survivor" continue to lead the male castaways out of the Garden of Eden and into a torch-snuffing pit of humiliation. Resident black widow Parvati, left, has left a wake of men in her path. For some reason, men find her incredibly charming and she doesn't mind using her "assets" to get what she wants. But more about her later.After the Heroes return from Tribal Council, Tom tells James he could've been a little more gentle in his tone with the ousted Stephenie. "I just wanna win," James says. J.T. pulls Tom aside and offers an apology for breaking his promise and stabbing him in the back by siding with his other alliance. And poor, poor Colby is letting his moral compass get the best of him. He thinks the game is bringing out qualities in him that he wasn't ready for this time around.
The next morning, all is quiet around the Heroes beach. Rupert secretly wished for rain because it would force them all to spend time together in the shelter. Instead, they are all off doing their own thing around camp. Luckily, some wayward chickens make their way into their camp and the guys all join together in catching them. Pause it: Nothing brings people together like fried chicken. Seriously. OK, maybe pizza. Tom proves he's still got the midas touch when he catches one with his quick hands. Rewind: Remember how he caught that baby shark on his season using his bare hands and his psychic powers?
With two straight wins under their belts, the Villains are still riding high. Boston Rob makes a very astute observation when he tells us that the way to figure out alliances is by watching to see who sleeps next to whom at night. Of course, who better to know than B-Rob. He is, after all, the guy who lost to his future wife Ambuh. Jerri is snuggled up next to Coach while Parvati is putting the moves on Russell. Pause it: Now I'm not one to gossip (much) but if I'm not mistaken, Russell has a wife and four kids. Why is he rubbing up on Parv like he's trying to build a fire on her arm? But it back in the sling, buddy. Coach, who somehow is the voice of reason, can see how people are mesmerized by Parv's charm and warns Russell to be careful with how the tribe perceives his relationship with her. Russell, on the other hand, is too preoccupied with proving that B-Rob isn't running the Villains' camp. He resorts to his "mind-control" tactics and hides the tribe's machete. He reasons that people will go crazy and it will cause dissension among the castaways.
At the immunity/reward challenge, it's a round of Sumo-style mud jousting, with the first team to eight points winning another safety along with luxury items from home, a week's worth of rice and coffee. Pause it: These people aren't brushing their teeth and you want to mix that with coffee breath? Good Lord!! The match-ups are pretty even, but there were some who didn't stand a chance against their opponents (James and Randy? Really?) Candice took Parvati down in a scrappy battle while Jerri basically threw herself in the mud running from Cirie. Coach thought he had the upper hand on Rupert, but was called for a do-over after using his arm to push Rupert from the podium. If you listened to James yelling from the sidelines, you knew the Heroes came to work out some aggression. "Get yo ass up!" he yells at Coach. "Whoop her ass!" he instructs Cirie. The Heroes rout the Villains, 8-0, giving them their first immunity win.
Back at camp, the Villains quickly begin tossing names around. Randy, right, is the o
bvious choice. He's the oldest player in the game and has no real alliances with anyone. But Randy knows that the girls will run the game if they don't eliminate the biggest social threat: Parvati. Tyson and Coach both want her gone. "Fear has never controlled me; flirting has never controlled me," Coach tells her. Jerri also goes gunning for her after Parv tries to bully her into revealing her vote.At Tribal Council, Probst asks how much past relationships come into play when multiple players have been in the game multiple times. Most of the tribe is concern that Parvati has friends on the Heroes team, but B-Rob points out the advantage of going into the merge with someone who knows the other team. Others point out that Parv is also a previous winner. None of that seems to matter much though, as they all vote Randy out of the game. He shows his anger by tossing his team buff into the flames on his way out. BOOYAH!
Turn that up: Funniest line of the night goes to Jeff Probst. After calling a do-over in the Rupert/Coach match up, Coach gives him the finger and Probst tells him to "Take that anger and point it to the pirate, not me." Runner-up goes to Tyson. After losing to the Heroes, he says, " I guess they all ate steroid sandwiches ... I worried for their sanity."
CHANNEL SURFING
- Stephen Colbert's "Vancouverage" of the Winter Olympics via "The Colbert Report" (Comedy Central) was freaking awesome! Having the Colbert Nation sponsor the USA Olympic Speedskating team was pure genius and provided him with some of his best material since his trip to Iraq for "Operation Iraqi Stephen".
- After these messages: Apparently Jimmy Johnson heard me laughing through his ExtenZe commercial because no sooner than I finished typing about how he should be embarrassed did he come out with a counter spot saying he's not ashamed to be promoting a male-enhancement pill.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Watch this, tape that - Thursday
It's another light night and all the good shows are stacked in the 8:00 hour. My suggestions: watch "American Idol" (FOX); tape "The Deep End" (ABC); and catch "Survivor" (CBS) online or On Demand.
Take a nap then wake up just in time to watch "Project Runway" (Lifetime) at 10:00.
Take a nap then wake up just in time to watch "Project Runway" (Lifetime) at 10:00.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Watch this, tape that - Wednesday
It's the ultimate snoozefest tonight.
"American Idol" (FOX, 8:00) is new, but the rest is a lot of repeats. You can check out the Winter Olympics (NBC, 8:00), or "High School Reunion" (TV Land, 8:00) where fun time is over for one of the classmates they leave early. On "Shear Genius" (Bravo, 10:00), the stylists will be creating hairstyles for bridesmaids. There's also "Psych" (USA, 10:00).
"American Idol" (FOX, 8:00) is new, but the rest is a lot of repeats. You can check out the Winter Olympics (NBC, 8:00), or "High School Reunion" (TV Land, 8:00) where fun time is over for one of the classmates they leave early. On "Shear Genius" (Bravo, 10:00), the stylists will be creating hairstyles for bridesmaids. There's also "Psych" (USA, 10:00).
We're number 1!
Sometimes I wish I had started a video blog instead of writing. Some shows are just too darn hard to sum up in words. Too bad my face is too round and my t-zone is too shiny to be in front of anyone's camera.
"16 and Pregnant" (MTV, Tues., 10:00): There are plenty of shows among the networks that really bring out the emotion in me. "Friday Night Lights" appeals to the small-town girl in me. "Survivor" pulls out my competitive nature. And "Glee" makes me want to befriend people I probably wouldn't think twice about. But "16 and Pregnant" makes me both angry and sad at these girls who lose their
innocence so early, yet refuse to be adults when the time comes. Tonight's episode follows Nikkole, a high-school junior from Michigan whose ex-boyfriend Josh dumped her after she declined having an abortion.
Nikkole says she's lived a pretty charmed life. Her mom buys her anything she wants and she's a self-professed princess. Her mom is shattered when she finds out her only daughter is pregnant, but vows to support her through it, especially since the baby daddy is a total douche. Rewind: Think "Teen Mom's" Ryan, but not as cute and way more annoying. What's more annoying is Nikkole's desire to get back together with Josh, even though she knows he's cheating on her. With his controlling ways, he's the kind of guy that grows up to be a wife beater, and I'm not talking about the little white t-shirts. Josh has a pattern of hurting Nikkole, and her mom has had it with his jerky behavior.
Nikkole got pregnant at the end of the school year, so she spent the summer swelling. By the time the first day of school rolls around, she's already close to her delivery date. Instead of the obligatory first-day-of-school outfit, she opts for a loose-fitting hoodie and a pair of gym shorts so people won't stare. Pause it: People won't be staring because you're pregnant. They'll be staring because you're pregnant and you think a sweatshirt will hide it. FAIL!
For her last hurrah before giving birth, Nikkole goes to the Homecoming dance with her friends, but after getting back together with Josh, she's more excited about meeting up with him afterwards. He's supposed to meet her outside but cut to her standing in an empty parking lot, stood up and let down. She spends the rest of the evening playing Band Hero with her younger brother.
The big day arrives and Nikkole opts for having an induced delivery instead of waiting for labor to progress naturally. Both her doctor and mother warn her that she could be in labor much longer than she expects. After 11 hours go by, Josh (who miraculously shows up for the baby's birth) tells Nikkole that a man's tolerance for pain is a lot higher than a woman's. Pause it: And after 11 hours and 1.2 seconds, I would have given him an elbow to the nose. Tolerate that! Mom is doing her best to keep things calm and civil, but Josh just keeps on nagging. He says he will always be number one in Nikkole's eyes while mom says she's the one whose number one. Seventeen hours, and she's only dilated one centimeter. After 27 hours, she finally gets to push and out pops 8 lbs., 11 oz. baby Lyle. I swear I heard him chanting, "I'm number one!" as he was coming down the birth canal.
When it's all over, Josh is banned from coming over to Nikkole's house and he goes back to his other girlfriend, Kyla. He says he doesn't want a committed relationship, but he doesn't want to cut Nikkole out completely ... just in case. She's left heartbroken once again, but right on cue, mom is there to pick up the pieces.
CHANNEL SURFING
"16 and Pregnant" (MTV, Tues., 10:00): There are plenty of shows among the networks that really bring out the emotion in me. "Friday Night Lights" appeals to the small-town girl in me. "Survivor" pulls out my competitive nature. And "Glee" makes me want to befriend people I probably wouldn't think twice about. But "16 and Pregnant" makes me both angry and sad at these girls who lose their
innocence so early, yet refuse to be adults when the time comes. Tonight's episode follows Nikkole, a high-school junior from Michigan whose ex-boyfriend Josh dumped her after she declined having an abortion.Nikkole says she's lived a pretty charmed life. Her mom buys her anything she wants and she's a self-professed princess. Her mom is shattered when she finds out her only daughter is pregnant, but vows to support her through it, especially since the baby daddy is a total douche. Rewind: Think "Teen Mom's" Ryan, but not as cute and way more annoying. What's more annoying is Nikkole's desire to get back together with Josh, even though she knows he's cheating on her. With his controlling ways, he's the kind of guy that grows up to be a wife beater, and I'm not talking about the little white t-shirts. Josh has a pattern of hurting Nikkole, and her mom has had it with his jerky behavior.
Nikkole got pregnant at the end of the school year, so she spent the summer swelling. By the time the first day of school rolls around, she's already close to her delivery date. Instead of the obligatory first-day-of-school outfit, she opts for a loose-fitting hoodie and a pair of gym shorts so people won't stare. Pause it: People won't be staring because you're pregnant. They'll be staring because you're pregnant and you think a sweatshirt will hide it. FAIL!
For her last hurrah before giving birth, Nikkole goes to the Homecoming dance with her friends, but after getting back together with Josh, she's more excited about meeting up with him afterwards. He's supposed to meet her outside but cut to her standing in an empty parking lot, stood up and let down. She spends the rest of the evening playing Band Hero with her younger brother.
The big day arrives and Nikkole opts for having an induced delivery instead of waiting for labor to progress naturally. Both her doctor and mother warn her that she could be in labor much longer than she expects. After 11 hours go by, Josh (who miraculously shows up for the baby's birth) tells Nikkole that a man's tolerance for pain is a lot higher than a woman's. Pause it: And after 11 hours and 1.2 seconds, I would have given him an elbow to the nose. Tolerate that! Mom is doing her best to keep things calm and civil, but Josh just keeps on nagging. He says he will always be number one in Nikkole's eyes while mom says she's the one whose number one. Seventeen hours, and she's only dilated one centimeter. After 27 hours, she finally gets to push and out pops 8 lbs., 11 oz. baby Lyle. I swear I heard him chanting, "I'm number one!" as he was coming down the birth canal.
When it's all over, Josh is banned from coming over to Nikkole's house and he goes back to his other girlfriend, Kyla. He says he doesn't want a committed relationship, but he doesn't want to cut Nikkole out completely ... just in case. She's left heartbroken once again, but right on cue, mom is there to pick up the pieces.
CHANNEL SURFING
- "American Idol" (FOX, Tues., 8:00) is up to the viewer voting part. There were a lot of questionable song choices. Enough so that I switched over to reruns of "Grey's Anatomy" on Lifetime.
- "Boyz N the Hood" (BET, Wed., 1:00 a.m.) is still one of the most riveting and realistic movies ever made. Not that I know much of anything about being in a gang or growing up in South Central L.A. But what I do know is that it had a great soundtrack.
- After these messages: Good thing longtime football coach Jimmy Johnson is retired. How embarrassing would it be to see your coach on a commercial promoting ExtenZe male-enhancement capsules then having him yell from the sidelines, "Go long!"
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Watch this, tape that - Tuesday
It's a light night. Enjoy!
8:00
Watch this: "American Idol" (FOX). We've finally made it to the semifinals and viewer voting is about to begin. 2 hour show.
Also on: Winter Olympics (NBC). Women's figure skating and women's bobsledding are among the competitions. Check your TV Guide channel for listings.
9:00
Tape that: "Lost" (ABC). You're more than welcome to watch it live, but if you're like me, you'll need to rewind it more than once. Jack is the focus of tonight's episode.
10:00
Watch this: "16 and Pregnant" (MTV). If you have teenagers, this show is a must-see.
Also on: "The Michael Vick Project" (BET). "The Good Wife" (CBS) is a repeat.
8:00
Watch this: "American Idol" (FOX). We've finally made it to the semifinals and viewer voting is about to begin. 2 hour show.
Also on: Winter Olympics (NBC). Women's figure skating and women's bobsledding are among the competitions. Check your TV Guide channel for listings.
9:00
Tape that: "Lost" (ABC). You're more than welcome to watch it live, but if you're like me, you'll need to rewind it more than once. Jack is the focus of tonight's episode.
10:00
Watch this: "16 and Pregnant" (MTV). If you have teenagers, this show is a must-see.
Also on: "The Michael Vick Project" (BET). "The Good Wife" (CBS) is a repeat.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Going rogue
Sorry for the late posting. When I said "later today', I wasn't anticipating it would be this late. The old laptop decided to take a mini vacation. He reappeared this morning, looking sad and sorry. I figured I'd give him one last chance to pull it together. But enough about my love life. Here's what happened last night on ...
"The Amazing Race" (CBS, Sun., 8:00): One Watch Party viewer is still upset over the elimination of the high school sweethearts. I had no attachment to them, but I developing a small crush on Team 8 Seconds (cowboys Jet and Cord). They proved they are no country bumpkins and could be a team to contend with. The racers leave Santiago, Chile, and hop on a 500-mile bus ride to Puerto Varas. Pause it: I could barely do a 10-mile bus ride from Sea-Tac airport, let alone 500. TAXI!!
All teams are even once they get to the bus station and the Sexy Lezzies decide to form an alliance with Team Asian Persuasion, married couple Joe and Heidi. Only two teams can make it onto the first bus, so when Asian Persuasion holds a spot in the ticket line for the Lezzies, the gloves come off. Pause it: There's no line holding in The Amazing Race! While AP and the Lezzie bask in the afterglow of getting the last seats on the bus, Jeff from Team Showmance and Team 8 Seconds both come up with the bright idea of taking a bus with a connection in another city. The move would put them in Puerto Varas 8 hours ahead of the others. Team Iraq and Such As follows suit and they all head to the other bus station. Take that Lezzies!
After the rogue teams arrive at the other bus station, 8 Seconds jumps ahead of the pack when they realize their bus leaves from a different terminal. By the time the others find out they are in the wrong terminal, it's too late and they miss the bus. Rewind: The whole thing was like watching an episode of "Scooby Doo," with them running back and forth between bus terminals. All that was missing was the Mystery Van and the creepy cartoon music. I think I'm going to change Iraq and Such As to Team Fred and Velma.
At the Detour, teams had to choose between llama adoration or condor consternation, i.e., dress a llama or fly like a bird. Already ahead with a big lead, Team 8 Seconds turned out to be quite the llama whisperers. I guess that should be no surprise since they are cowboys. Showmance, along with Fred and Velma and Team Granny Shannies (grandmother/granddaughter Jody and Shannon), all tried the flying condor route. Pause it: I don't know why these people really thought they would take flight. They all sank like rocks in that freezing water.
The Roadblock was a fairly easy challenge, if you are an octopus wearing a helmet. One team member had to race around a farm collecting ingredients to make a german dessert - flour, butter, a baker's dozen of eggs, a bowl of sugar and the kicker: milk straight from a cow. Pause it: And I mean it was a literal kicker as multiple racers took blows about the ears, nose and throat from these feisty cows. Poor Granny took a hard kick to the head, even though she was practically making love to Daisy, stoking the utters while whispering sweet nothings. All that was missing was the bow chicka wow wow porn music. Leave the money on the nightstand, Grandma!
I thought more teams would've been tripped up on the whole 'baker's dozen' thing - I only learned it was 13 last year - but 8 Seconds held on to their lead, coming in first and winning a sailboat. Alligned teams Asian Persuasion and Sexy Lezzies came in second and third, respectively. But it was Granny Shannies dragging up the rear and were eliminated from the race.
"The Amazing Race" (CBS, Sun., 8:00): One Watch Party viewer is still upset over the elimination of the high school sweethearts. I had no attachment to them, but I developing a small crush on Team 8 Seconds (cowboys Jet and Cord). They proved they are no country bumpkins and could be a team to contend with. The racers leave Santiago, Chile, and hop on a 500-mile bus ride to Puerto Varas. Pause it: I could barely do a 10-mile bus ride from Sea-Tac airport, let alone 500. TAXI!! All teams are even once they get to the bus station and the Sexy Lezzies decide to form an alliance with Team Asian Persuasion, married couple Joe and Heidi. Only two teams can make it onto the first bus, so when Asian Persuasion holds a spot in the ticket line for the Lezzies, the gloves come off. Pause it: There's no line holding in The Amazing Race! While AP and the Lezzie bask in the afterglow of getting the last seats on the bus, Jeff from Team Showmance and Team 8 Seconds both come up with the bright idea of taking a bus with a connection in another city. The move would put them in Puerto Varas 8 hours ahead of the others. Team Iraq and Such As follows suit and they all head to the other bus station. Take that Lezzies!
After the rogue teams arrive at the other bus station, 8 Seconds jumps ahead of the pack when they realize their bus leaves from a different terminal. By the time the others find out they are in the wrong terminal, it's too late and they miss the bus. Rewind: The whole thing was like watching an episode of "Scooby Doo," with them running back and forth between bus terminals. All that was missing was the Mystery Van and the creepy cartoon music. I think I'm going to change Iraq and Such As to Team Fred and Velma.
At the Detour, teams had to choose between llama adoration or condor consternation, i.e., dress a llama or fly like a bird. Already ahead with a big lead, Team 8 Seconds turned out to be quite the llama whisperers. I guess that should be no surprise since they are cowboys. Showmance, along with Fred and Velma and Team Granny Shannies (grandmother/granddaughter Jody and Shannon), all tried the flying condor route. Pause it: I don't know why these people really thought they would take flight. They all sank like rocks in that freezing water.
The Roadblock was a fairly easy challenge, if you are an octopus wearing a helmet. One team member had to race around a farm collecting ingredients to make a german dessert - flour, butter, a baker's dozen of eggs, a bowl of sugar and the kicker: milk straight from a cow. Pause it: And I mean it was a literal kicker as multiple racers took blows about the ears, nose and throat from these feisty cows. Poor Granny took a hard kick to the head, even though she was practically making love to Daisy, stoking the utters while whispering sweet nothings. All that was missing was the bow chicka wow wow porn music. Leave the money on the nightstand, Grandma!
I thought more teams would've been tripped up on the whole 'baker's dozen' thing - I only learned it was 13 last year - but 8 Seconds held on to their lead, coming in first and winning a sailboat. Alligned teams Asian Persuasion and Sexy Lezzies came in second and third, respectively. But it was Granny Shannies dragging up the rear and were eliminated from the race.
Watch this, tape that - Monday
Here's what's on tonight:
8:00
Watch this: "Secret Life of the American Teenager" (ABC Family). My 17-year-old niece complained to me that this show focuses so much on teen sex that if forgets about all the other problems teens face. Get it together, "Secret Life!"
9:00
Watch this: "24" (FOX). I'm thinking about watching this strictly online. They get one more hour to improve or it's over.
Tape that: "Make It or Break It" (ABC Family). Still my Monday night guilty pleasure. The girls are forced to train harder.
Also on: "Celebrity Fit Club: Boot Camp" (VH1).
10:00
Watch this: "Damages" (FX). Patty battles the DA over access to a witness.
Tape that: "Men of a Certain Age" (TNT). In the first season finale, Joe spins into a guilt-ridden funk.
See it on second run: "Hoarders (A&E). Repeats at 2 a.m. You don't have to say anything. I know.
Also on: "Fantasia For Real" (VH1).
8:00
Watch this: "Secret Life of the American Teenager" (ABC Family). My 17-year-old niece complained to me that this show focuses so much on teen sex that if forgets about all the other problems teens face. Get it together, "Secret Life!"
9:00
Watch this: "24" (FOX). I'm thinking about watching this strictly online. They get one more hour to improve or it's over.
Tape that: "Make It or Break It" (ABC Family). Still my Monday night guilty pleasure. The girls are forced to train harder.
Also on: "Celebrity Fit Club: Boot Camp" (VH1).
10:00
Watch this: "Damages" (FX). Patty battles the DA over access to a witness.
Tape that: "Men of a Certain Age" (TNT). In the first season finale, Joe spins into a guilt-ridden funk.
See it on second run: "Hoarders (A&E). Repeats at 2 a.m. You don't have to say anything. I know.
Also on: "Fantasia For Real" (VH1).
Thursday, February 18, 2010
One voice, many mouths
For one night I have an appreciation for the Winter Olympics. Not because of any spectacular gold-medal moves, but because it cuts my TV watching schedule down by at least a third. And thanks to CBS posting their shows immediately after they air, I'm down to just three shows! Maybe I'll get to bed before 5 a.m. The things I do for the Watch Party.
"Survivor" (CBS, 8:00): The tribes are three days into their misadventure, and the castaways are battling the same torrential rainfall that the Samoa cast endured. Rewind: That makes sense, seeing how they are in Samoa again. Boston Rob, who was once a construction worker, wants to rebuild the Villains' rain-soaked shelter while others want to stand around and watch him do it. Most agree that Rob is the leader and the tribe would all be dead without his know-how. He calls them a bunch of lazy "buffoons" and storms off to the jungle where he promptly drops like a bag of coconuts. Luckily, Jerri witnesses the whole thing and the medics are soon called in. He's fine but his resolve to win the game has me kicking myself over my Final 3 Picks. Damn you, Boston Rob!The Villains look as though the tribe is about to implode while over at the Heroes' beach, they are hard at work with no complaining. Well, almost no complaining. Rupert gripes that they need to get rid of Stephenie while she surmises that Rupert's "nice guy" act is overkill. At least they are chipper with their insults.
At the immunity/reward challenge, the tribes play a grueling game of over-sized building blocks. Pause it: I find it somewhat difficult when trying to explain these challenges. Pairs rolling heavy, jumbo blocks down the beach then stacking them to solve a word puzzle? That sounds about right, no? The winning team gets a tarp, rope and nails.
The Heroes go in with a winning strategy: one voice. J.T. will call the shots since the same game was played during his season. (Coach and Tyson played it as well.) The Heroes build a solid lead with James practically carrying the blocks for his team. But when they get to the puzzle, the tribe implodes when Stephenie tries to call out strategy over J.T. Villains win again and James reads Steph the riot act, telling her to "shut up!" She's smart enough to keep her mouth closed, as she knows that Rupert is gunning for her as well. Rewind: While James may have voiced his opinion the wrong way, the guy had a point. Steph really wasn't following the "one voice" rule. And those who have played the game with James knows he's a passionate player who likes to win.
Back that the Heroes camp, James continues his tirade about people not following instructions. Tom is quick to defend Stephenie ... just not in earshot of the other tribemates. He and Colby huddle up to see if they can get Cirie and Candice to vote off Amanda. Candice says there will be a clear divide in the camp once the votes are revealed. When she asks whose name they should write down, Cirie replies, "As long as it's not us, it don't much matter to me." Pause it: When did Cirie and Candice become a voting bloc? J.T. realizes he's going to have to pick an alliance, as he's made deals with both Tom and James.
At Tribal Council, lines are drawn when James goes after Stephenie ... again. He reminds the Heroes that Stephenie's whole tribe was decimated during her time in Palau and calls her the teams cryptonite. Colby and Tom come to her defense, revealing their allegiance to one another. Pause it: For Tom to be such a hero, he sure has a yellow belly. If he loves Steph so much, why wait until Colby sticks his neck out first? Cirie points out that Amanda did cost her a million dollars, so there's no alliance among those who have played the game together. Pause it: Sounds like Cirie needs some antiseptic for that old wound. In a vote of 6-3, Stephenie is the second Hero voted out of the game. I honestly thought she'd make it farther than 19th place. Must've been the eyebrows.
THE SCORECARD
The tribe has spoken: Obviously Amanda has not learned anything from her previous times on "Survivor". Even behind those glasses, you could still see her making those puppy dog eyes as if she's waiting at the shelter to be adopted. Stop being such a wimp, Mandy! ... I find it HI-larious that Russell is so star-struck (and jealous) over Rob. This is the same guy whose strategy was about mind control, but it looks like Rob is the one who has Russell under his spell.
CHANNEL SURFING
- It's still thundering on "Grey's Anatomy" (ABC, 9:00). UGH!!! I know that shouldn't even be my main concern, but as someone who grew up in the south and a six-year Seattle resident, I know what real storms sound like and the sound of thunder is rarely heard in these parts. ANYWAY ... the staff of Seattle Grace has to sit through a series of lectures from their colleagues - Bailey, Callie and Chief Weber. Interesting look at how some of their former patients and peers shaped their lives. Bailey used to be a "minnow," now she's a shark. She called her overbearing then-attendant a "supercilious fool". Pause it: Sliding that one in my pocket for later use. Callie helped a man with polio walk again then celebrated by sleeping with Alex Karev. He really has slept with practically every doctor on staff. We were also given a glimpse of how the Chief became an alcoholic. Good episode full of '80s music and bad wigs.
- "Project Runway" (Lifetime, 10:00): It's about time the designers were given a task with substance. This time around they had to create an age-appropriate kids look and it's the battle of edgy meets Easter dress. Some designers loved the idea of working with kids clothes, while others *cough* Jonathan *cough* were coming apart at the seams. "That one little child made me so nervous that now I stink," Jonathan says as he sniffs his armpits. To make matters worse, Tim tells them they also have to make a companion look for the adult models. Vancouver's own Seth Aaron wins the challenge for his biker baby outfit while Jeaneane from Portland is sent home for her underdesigned, plain Jane frock.
Watch this, tape that - Thursday
Let's make it an ABC night. Break out your Snuggies.
8:00
Watch this: "The Deep End" (ABC). Yes, it's growing on me. I have to keep watching to see if that guy and what's her face hook up.
See it online: "Survivor" (CBS). It's just as good as taping it, but less fast-forwarding. Looks like Boston Rob takes a spill tonight.
9:00
Watch this: "Grey's Anatomy" (ABC). The doctors recall past cases in a lecture series. We get to see Meredith as a child and how the Chief and her mom got tangled up. Oh, and see Bailey with braids!!
10:00
Watch this: "Private Practice" (ABC). Maya's wedding is approaching but Naomi still refuses to help. This is one family that needs to be watching "16 and Pregnant".
Tape that: "Project Runway" (Lifetime).
8:00
Watch this: "The Deep End" (ABC). Yes, it's growing on me. I have to keep watching to see if that guy and what's her face hook up.
See it online: "Survivor" (CBS). It's just as good as taping it, but less fast-forwarding. Looks like Boston Rob takes a spill tonight.
9:00
Watch this: "Grey's Anatomy" (ABC). The doctors recall past cases in a lecture series. We get to see Meredith as a child and how the Chief and her mom got tangled up. Oh, and see Bailey with braids!!
10:00
Watch this: "Private Practice" (ABC). Maya's wedding is approaching but Naomi still refuses to help. This is one family that needs to be watching "16 and Pregnant".
Tape that: "Project Runway" (Lifetime).
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Watch this, tape that - Wednesday
Another light night. Enjoy!
8:00
Watch this: "High School Reunion" (TV Land). The cheerleaders throw their own party after the Summer Girls leave them out of their soiree. Anything you can do ...
9:00
Watch this: "American Idol" (FOX). The Season 9 semifinalists are revealed.
Also on: Winter Olympics (NBC). "Criminal Minds" (CBS) is a repeat.
10:00
Watch this: "Psych" (USA). A lethal pathogen is stolen and could be released in the city by the thief. Sounds like a job for Jack Bauer.
Also on: "Shear Genius" (Bravo). Hair extensions for men? They make 'em for everyone else so why not? "Ugly Betty" (ABC) is a repeat.
8:00
Watch this: "High School Reunion" (TV Land). The cheerleaders throw their own party after the Summer Girls leave them out of their soiree. Anything you can do ...
9:00
Watch this: "American Idol" (FOX). The Season 9 semifinalists are revealed.
Also on: Winter Olympics (NBC). "Criminal Minds" (CBS) is a repeat.
10:00
Watch this: "Psych" (USA). A lethal pathogen is stolen and could be released in the city by the thief. Sounds like a job for Jack Bauer.
Also on: "Shear Genius" (Bravo). Hair extensions for men? They make 'em for everyone else so why not? "Ugly Betty" (ABC) is a repeat.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Stand and deliver
Today was the first Tuesday in a long time that I had absolutely nothing to do. I was really lazy today and played couch potato for most of the afternoon watching repeats of "The Game" on BET and some movie on the Disney channel called "Jump In" about kids in a double-dutch jump rope competition. Mindless entertainment.
"16 and Pregnant" (MTV, 10:00): I almost feel guilty when I say that I'm glad this show is back because it's like I want to see girls stuck in a pregnant pickle. But the truth is this show is one of the most realistic portrayals of the consequences of unprotected sex. It's the best thing MTV has given us since "The Real World: Las Vegas". Season 2 kicks off with the story of Jenelle, a North Carolina teen whose alcoholic boyfriend is former model turned mooch.
Jenelle and Andrew have been in a long-distance relationship for three years. Mom Barbara hates the guy and lets him know he needs to step up. Andrew has no job, no driver's license and lives with his parents. Pause it: Yes, that is Andrew's picture in the dictionary next to the word 'deadbeat'. Jenelle thinks having a baby isn't going to be that hard. "It's going to be like dressing up a doll everyday." Pause it: And that's Jenelle's picture next to the word 'dunce'. Sure sweetie, your baby will look like a doll ... that pees and poops on cue.
After 12 hours of labor, Jenelle gives birth to a baby boy named Jace. Rewind: 'Jace' was on my short list of possible baby names, you know ... for when I have kids. Gotta find a husband but right now I'll settle for a man who has all his teeth. The two days she spent in the hospital were the first and last times Andrew saw his son. He spent the first week of Jace's life in jail on a DUI charge then decided his feelings for Jenelle had "dropped". She decides the best way to get over him is by hitting the party scene with her friends. Guess who's left cleaning up after baby Jace: that would be grandma Barbara, who is none too happy about being an at-the-ready babysitter.
Jenelle reminds me of Farrah during her "Teen Mom" days. She's woman enough to make a baby but not woman enough to take care of it. But unlike Farrah, Jenelle is more than happy to have her baby dropped off at daycare so she can focus on having a social life. What else is different from Jenelle? When her mom gets pissed, she make Jenelle take her baby out with her! Farrah's mom could've used some of Barbara's brass balls.
CHANNEL SURFING
"American Idol" (FOX, 8:00): Who knew there were so many ways to sing a Jason Mraz song? The judges gave seven wannabe stars a spot in the Top 24. Two of my early favorites, Michael Lynche and Todrick Hall made it through. You'll recall that Michael missed the birth of his first born on group day of Hollywood Week and Todrick performed with Fantasia in "The Color Purple". Unfortunately, Shelby Dressel, the girl with the facial deformity didn't make the cut. But it was Jessica Furney, also a Season 8 reject, who went damn near postal when the judges told her that Season 9 was a no-go as well. "Can you tell me what I did wrong?" she begged. "You didn't sing as well as the others," Simon retorts. Truth hurts.
"Lost" (ABC, 9:00) made my head hurt, but I have a theory about the numbers. Inside the cave, Fake Locke showed Sawyer a wall full of names with corresponding numbers in front - Hurley's unlucky lottery numbers (4-8-15-16-23-42). I think these numbers were the seat numbers for the Oceanic 6, the people who were rescued from the island (Jack, Kate, Sayid, Hurley, Sun and baby Aaron). Sawyer's name wasn't scratched out but he jumped from the helicopter before it crashed, giving Aaron a chance to be rescued. Locke's name wasn't scratched out and he wasn't a member of the Oceanic 6, so could his death be the sacrifice for Kate? Just a theory, but maybe Kate is the secret to the island, not Locke. Did anyone else catch that or am I starting to sound like Locke?
"16 and Pregnant" (MTV, 10:00): I almost feel guilty when I say that I'm glad this show is back because it's like I want to see girls stuck in a pregnant pickle. But the truth is this show is one of the most realistic portrayals of the consequences of unprotected sex. It's the best thing MTV has given us since "The Real World: Las Vegas". Season 2 kicks off with the story of Jenelle, a North Carolina teen whose alcoholic boyfriend is former model turned mooch.Jenelle and Andrew have been in a long-distance relationship for three years. Mom Barbara hates the guy and lets him know he needs to step up. Andrew has no job, no driver's license and lives with his parents. Pause it: Yes, that is Andrew's picture in the dictionary next to the word 'deadbeat'. Jenelle thinks having a baby isn't going to be that hard. "It's going to be like dressing up a doll everyday." Pause it: And that's Jenelle's picture next to the word 'dunce'. Sure sweetie, your baby will look like a doll ... that pees and poops on cue.
After 12 hours of labor, Jenelle gives birth to a baby boy named Jace. Rewind: 'Jace' was on my short list of possible baby names, you know ... for when I have kids. Gotta find a husband but right now I'll settle for a man who has all his teeth. The two days she spent in the hospital were the first and last times Andrew saw his son. He spent the first week of Jace's life in jail on a DUI charge then decided his feelings for Jenelle had "dropped". She decides the best way to get over him is by hitting the party scene with her friends. Guess who's left cleaning up after baby Jace: that would be grandma Barbara, who is none too happy about being an at-the-ready babysitter.
Jenelle reminds me of Farrah during her "Teen Mom" days. She's woman enough to make a baby but not woman enough to take care of it. But unlike Farrah, Jenelle is more than happy to have her baby dropped off at daycare so she can focus on having a social life. What else is different from Jenelle? When her mom gets pissed, she make Jenelle take her baby out with her! Farrah's mom could've used some of Barbara's brass balls.
CHANNEL SURFING
"American Idol" (FOX, 8:00): Who knew there were so many ways to sing a Jason Mraz song? The judges gave seven wannabe stars a spot in the Top 24. Two of my early favorites, Michael Lynche and Todrick Hall made it through. You'll recall that Michael missed the birth of his first born on group day of Hollywood Week and Todrick performed with Fantasia in "The Color Purple". Unfortunately, Shelby Dressel, the girl with the facial deformity didn't make the cut. But it was Jessica Furney, also a Season 8 reject, who went damn near postal when the judges told her that Season 9 was a no-go as well. "Can you tell me what I did wrong?" she begged. "You didn't sing as well as the others," Simon retorts. Truth hurts.
"Lost" (ABC, 9:00) made my head hurt, but I have a theory about the numbers. Inside the cave, Fake Locke showed Sawyer a wall full of names with corresponding numbers in front - Hurley's unlucky lottery numbers (4-8-15-16-23-42). I think these numbers were the seat numbers for the Oceanic 6, the people who were rescued from the island (Jack, Kate, Sayid, Hurley, Sun and baby Aaron). Sawyer's name wasn't scratched out but he jumped from the helicopter before it crashed, giving Aaron a chance to be rescued. Locke's name wasn't scratched out and he wasn't a member of the Oceanic 6, so could his death be the sacrifice for Kate? Just a theory, but maybe Kate is the secret to the island, not Locke. Did anyone else catch that or am I starting to sound like Locke?
Watch this, tape that - Tuesday
I used to love the Olympics back in the days of Nancy Kerrigan and Kristi Yamaguchi. Now they are just a pain. Here's what's on:
8:00
Watch this: "American Idol" (FOX). 2-hour show. Hollywood round is almost over as the contestants battle it out for a spot in the Top 24.
Also on: Winter Olympics (NBC). Check local listings for the events of the day.
9:00
Tape that: "Lost" (ABC). Tonight's episode focuses on Locke so it's sure to be a mind-bender. Tape it and save yourself the headache of having to watch multiple times.
Also on: "RuPaul's Drag Race" (VH1). I caught a piece of this show the other night and it was quite the trainwreck. I'm rubbernecking.
10:00
Watch this: "16 and Pregnant" (MTV). Season 2 kicks off with a new batch of teens trying to cope with the fallout of unplanned pregnancies. This is a must-see for all parents with teenagers ... and sexually active women for that matter. Anybody can catch that bug.
Also on: "The Michael Vick Project" (BET). Just giving you options. "The Good Wife" (CBS) is a repeat.
8:00
Watch this: "American Idol" (FOX). 2-hour show. Hollywood round is almost over as the contestants battle it out for a spot in the Top 24.
Also on: Winter Olympics (NBC). Check local listings for the events of the day.
9:00
Tape that: "Lost" (ABC). Tonight's episode focuses on Locke so it's sure to be a mind-bender. Tape it and save yourself the headache of having to watch multiple times.
Also on: "RuPaul's Drag Race" (VH1). I caught a piece of this show the other night and it was quite the trainwreck. I'm rubbernecking.
10:00
Watch this: "16 and Pregnant" (MTV). Season 2 kicks off with a new batch of teens trying to cope with the fallout of unplanned pregnancies. This is a must-see for all parents with teenagers ... and sexually active women for that matter. Anybody can catch that bug.
Also on: "The Michael Vick Project" (BET). Just giving you options. "The Good Wife" (CBS) is a repeat.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Watch this, tape that - Monday
Here's what's on tonight:
8:00
Watch this: "Secret Life of the American Teenager" (ABC Family).
9:00
Watch this: "24" (FOX). I'm thinking about watching this strictly online.
Tape that: "Make It or Break It" (ABC Family). Still my Monday night guilty pleasure.
Also on: "Celebrity Fit Club: Boot Camp" (VH1).
10:00
Watch this: "Damages" (FX). Patty battles the DA over access to a witness.
Tape that: "Men of a Certain Age" (TNT).
See it on second run: "Hoarders (A&E). Repeats at 2 a.m. You don't have to say anything. I know.
Also on: "Fantasia For Real" (VH1).
8:00
Watch this: "Secret Life of the American Teenager" (ABC Family).
9:00
Watch this: "24" (FOX). I'm thinking about watching this strictly online.
Tape that: "Make It or Break It" (ABC Family). Still my Monday night guilty pleasure.
Also on: "Celebrity Fit Club: Boot Camp" (VH1).
10:00
Watch this: "Damages" (FX). Patty battles the DA over access to a witness.
Tape that: "Men of a Certain Age" (TNT).
See it on second run: "Hoarders (A&E). Repeats at 2 a.m. You don't have to say anything. I know.
Also on: "Fantasia For Real" (VH1).
Nothing's ever easy
I had to say goodbye to some Watch Party members today. They are still part of the group, just moving to the other side of the state. Watch Party in Spokane! I'll miss you Michael and Jackie! Hopefully I'll see you after the "Survivor" finale! Here's what went down Sunday night:
"The Amazing Race" (CBS, 8:00): Welcome back to the Sunday night goodness that is "The Amazing Race"! My relationship with this show is like the one I have with my college buddy, Mike Jenkins: I don't really miss it until I realize how long it's been since I last saw it. (Mike: Love you, mean it!) It's my second favorite reality-competition show because it provides me with a bucket list of places I want to travel to before I die. First up: Chile.
It's always funny to see how the teams label each other, but I like to give them my own nicknames. Among the couples: Team Iraq and Such As (former Miss Teen South Carolina Caite Upton and her arm candy, Brent); Team Asian Persuasion (Joe and Heidi Wang); and Team Sexy Lezzies (gay dating couple Carol and Brandy). My early faves are Team Showmance (Jeff and Jordan, pictured left, of "Big Brother" fame) and Team Don't Ask, Won't Tell (gay/straight brothers Dan and Jordan). Pause it: Watch Dan's funny (and dead-on) impersonation of Caite's bungled Miss Teen USA question.
At the Los Angeles starting line, the 11 teams are given their first clue: make their way to LAX - using public transportation - and fly to Santiago, Chile. I just knew Showmance was doomed when they made it to the airport and Jordan asked for tickets to China. Pause it: Their team could also be called "Legally Dumb". Only three teams were allowed on the first flight, but unfortunately the flight was delayed so all three teams scramble to get on the second plane.
After arriving in Chile, the teams travel another 60 miles by bus to Valparaiso, the San Francisco of South America. At the Road Block, teams must walk a football field-length cable suspended 120 feet above the ground. Rewind: The course reminded me of the Capilano Suspension Bridge in Vancouver, B.C. I was breathless then and I was breathless now. Jordan and Caite from Teams Showmance and Iraq and Such As were the first to cross while Adrian from Team High School Sweetie brought up the rear.
At the next challenge, the teams had to carry four buckets of paint along with brushes and a ladder and finish painting a house that matched their paint color. The task was an easy one, but teams with a bad sense of direction provided some comic relief when they painted the wrong objects. Team Father-Daughter Issues (Steve and Allie) even went so far as to paint the interior of a random house where the residents were just as baffled as they were.
At the pit stop, Showmance came in first, winning a trip to Vancouver. See you at Capilano! Iraq and Such As came in second but were hit with a 30-minute penalty for not following the clue directions. That opened the door for Ambulance Chasers (attorneys Monique and Shawne) and 8-Seconds (cowboys Jet and Cord) to take second and third, respectively. Don't Ask, Won't Tell were also slapped with a penalty for losing one their paint brushes, but they only had to wait 15 minutes. Iraq and Such As were checked in at 7th place.
After falling off the cable course twice, High School Sweeties were one and done, making them the first team eliminated. My Watch Party buddy was really pulling for them because they were high school sweethearts. Sorry, Mary, but sentiment does not a winner make. See you at the finish line, Lovers!
Geography Lesson: The Pit Stop was Palacio Baburizza, a 90-year old palace that now houses a Fine Arts Museum.
CHANNEL SURFING
Just a few thoughts on tonight's episode of "Undercover Boss" (CBS, 9:00): Coby Brooks, President and CEO of Hooters went undercover in one of the franchise's busiest establishments where he encountered a manager who actually makes the girls participate in demeaning contests to go home early. The thing that got me was that this guy managed to keep his job by promising to apologize to his Hooter Girls. First of all, if those girls had any sense they would be filing a harrassment lawsuit as I type this. Secondly, what does it take to get fired from Hooters? Mr. Brooks said he wanted to change people's perception of his family's business, but you keep people on your payroll who have no respect for women. You said you wouldn't want your daughters to work for him, but I wouldn't want my daughters to see their inheritance pays a manager as vile as him. I'm just sayin'.
Funny lines:
"The Amazing Race" (CBS, 8:00): Welcome back to the Sunday night goodness that is "The Amazing Race"! My relationship with this show is like the one I have with my college buddy, Mike Jenkins: I don't really miss it until I realize how long it's been since I last saw it. (Mike: Love you, mean it!) It's my second favorite reality-competition show because it provides me with a bucket list of places I want to travel to before I die. First up: Chile.It's always funny to see how the teams label each other, but I like to give them my own nicknames. Among the couples: Team Iraq and Such As (former Miss Teen South Carolina Caite Upton and her arm candy, Brent); Team Asian Persuasion (Joe and Heidi Wang); and Team Sexy Lezzies (gay dating couple Carol and Brandy). My early faves are Team Showmance (Jeff and Jordan, pictured left, of "Big Brother" fame) and Team Don't Ask, Won't Tell (gay/straight brothers Dan and Jordan). Pause it: Watch Dan's funny (and dead-on) impersonation of Caite's bungled Miss Teen USA question.
At the Los Angeles starting line, the 11 teams are given their first clue: make their way to LAX - using public transportation - and fly to Santiago, Chile. I just knew Showmance was doomed when they made it to the airport and Jordan asked for tickets to China. Pause it: Their team could also be called "Legally Dumb". Only three teams were allowed on the first flight, but unfortunately the flight was delayed so all three teams scramble to get on the second plane.
After arriving in Chile, the teams travel another 60 miles by bus to Valparaiso, the San Francisco of South America. At the Road Block, teams must walk a football field-length cable suspended 120 feet above the ground. Rewind: The course reminded me of the Capilano Suspension Bridge in Vancouver, B.C. I was breathless then and I was breathless now. Jordan and Caite from Teams Showmance and Iraq and Such As were the first to cross while Adrian from Team High School Sweetie brought up the rear.
At the next challenge, the teams had to carry four buckets of paint along with brushes and a ladder and finish painting a house that matched their paint color. The task was an easy one, but teams with a bad sense of direction provided some comic relief when they painted the wrong objects. Team Father-Daughter Issues (Steve and Allie) even went so far as to paint the interior of a random house where the residents were just as baffled as they were.
At the pit stop, Showmance came in first, winning a trip to Vancouver. See you at Capilano! Iraq and Such As came in second but were hit with a 30-minute penalty for not following the clue directions. That opened the door for Ambulance Chasers (attorneys Monique and Shawne) and 8-Seconds (cowboys Jet and Cord) to take second and third, respectively. Don't Ask, Won't Tell were also slapped with a penalty for losing one their paint brushes, but they only had to wait 15 minutes. Iraq and Such As were checked in at 7th place.
After falling off the cable course twice, High School Sweeties were one and done, making them the first team eliminated. My Watch Party buddy was really pulling for them because they were high school sweethearts. Sorry, Mary, but sentiment does not a winner make. See you at the finish line, Lovers!
Geography Lesson: The Pit Stop was Palacio Baburizza, a 90-year old palace that now houses a Fine Arts Museum.
CHANNEL SURFING
Just a few thoughts on tonight's episode of "Undercover Boss" (CBS, 9:00): Coby Brooks, President and CEO of Hooters went undercover in one of the franchise's busiest establishments where he encountered a manager who actually makes the girls participate in demeaning contests to go home early. The thing that got me was that this guy managed to keep his job by promising to apologize to his Hooter Girls. First of all, if those girls had any sense they would be filing a harrassment lawsuit as I type this. Secondly, what does it take to get fired from Hooters? Mr. Brooks said he wanted to change people's perception of his family's business, but you keep people on your payroll who have no respect for women. You said you wouldn't want your daughters to work for him, but I wouldn't want my daughters to see their inheritance pays a manager as vile as him. I'm just sayin'.
Funny lines:
- "At the end of the day, their husbands are still gonna come in." - Hooter girl, after a woman says she doesn't eat there because it's demeaning to women.
- "Shirts come in small, extra small and extra extra small." (I would need at least 3 or 4 smalls just to cover my muffin top).
Friday, February 12, 2010
Watch this, tape that - Weekend
With the start of the Olympics, there's not much on this weekend. Check your local listings or your TV Guide channel listings for a schedule of events.
FRIDAY
8:00
Watch this: Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony (NBC). It's a parade of nations!
Also on: "Ghost Whisperer" (CBS) and Medium (CBS, 9:00) are repeats.
SUNDAY
Let's make it a CBS night, starting with the return of "The Amazing Race" (8:00). Stick around for "Undercover Boss" (9:00) and "Cold Case" (10:00). "Boss" follows the president of Hooters as he spies on his chain managers. "Cold Case" revisits the 1983 murder of an artist. If none of these appeal to you there's always the Olympics (NBC, 8:00) or "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" (9:00, ABC).
FRIDAY
8:00
Watch this: Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony (NBC). It's a parade of nations!
Also on: "Ghost Whisperer" (CBS) and Medium (CBS, 9:00) are repeats.
SUNDAY
Let's make it a CBS night, starting with the return of "The Amazing Race" (8:00). Stick around for "Undercover Boss" (9:00) and "Cold Case" (10:00). "Boss" follows the president of Hooters as he spies on his chain managers. "Cold Case" revisits the 1983 murder of an artist. If none of these appeal to you there's always the Olympics (NBC, 8:00) or "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" (9:00, ABC).
Settling the score
I just finished watching the Direct TV Season 4 finale of "Friday Night Lights". For the love of all things holy, if you don't watch this show when it premieres on NBC in April, you will be missing THE best show on television. I cheered, I cried, I laughed. There is no other show that makes me verklempt at the thought of it being cancelled. It also makes me angry that NBC didn't give "FNL" the proper chance to find its footing on the network. If you are a true TV Watch Party follower, you will watch "Friday Night Lights" in April. *Forcing you into an uncomfortable hug*
Here's what happened Thursday night on ...
"Survivor: Heroes vs. Villains" (CBS, 8:00): First, I must apologize to my coworkers who were subjected to my squeals, laughter and grunts while I watched the show online (off the clock, of course). Secondly, how freakin' excited is TV Watch Party to have a show that makes me giddy like a fat kid with cake? The Watch Party knows that "Survivor" is my all-time favorite reality show and I didn't realize how much I missed it until I heard Jeff Probst summing up the past 19 seasons.
There's been a lot of viewer comments floating around about the return of previous players. Pause it: I don't mind another All-Star season, although some of the player choices are a little suspect. Danielle who? Candace, really? Where is Yao-Man? What about Ozzy? Or even "Dreamz" for that matter? Sandra Diaz-Twine, a villain, says she's going to be meaner this time around. I barely even remember her speaking during her stint on Pearl Islands.
The show wastes no time putting the castaways to the test in a very physical reward challenge. Probst says they're playing for fire, but we all know they're playing for bragging rights. The game is a brutal version of football, except they don't have any protective gear. Heroes Rupert and Stephenie both suffer injuries (him, a toe broken in three places and her a dislocated then relocated shoulder). Cirie was tossing the girls around left and right, while Sandra stripped Sugar of her bikini top. Too bad it didn't stop her from scoring a point for the Heroes. James completely bulldozed his competition and the Heroes win the first challenge.
Back at camp, the Heroes are sitting high on the hog when they manage to snag four chickens. Props to them for being smart enough to build a coop instead of eating them all on the first day. J.T and James form an instant alliance and Sandra and Boston Rob hit it off nicely over on the Villain's beach. Jerri and Coach are making a love connection. Throw in the "Dragon Slayer's" unrequited bromance with Rob and you've got yourself a "Survivor" love triangle. There is so much wheelin', dealin' and lovin' going on, it's hard to keep track.
At the immunity challenge, an exhausting land/water/puzzle contraption, the Heroes get off to an early lead, but blow it when they can't solve the four-layer puzzle. This time it's the Villains who prevail, coming from behind for the win. Rewind: Are all the challenges going to be "take-twos" from previous seasons?
As the Heroes prepare for Tribal Council, former castmates start pairing up, leaving Sugar on the outside looking in. Cirie, Stephenie and Amanda's names are thrown into the mix and it becomes strategy vs. strength when the tribe can't decide who's the bigger threat. Do they get rid of a strong mental player or the weakest physical tribe member? Sugar, who couldn't even figure out how to work the Tribal Council ink pen, is the first person voted out in a 9-1 vote.
Do you think the tribe made the right move or will the mental juggernauts manage to control the game? It's going to be one hell of a season!
Funny lines from the castaways
CHANNEL SURFING
Here's what happened Thursday night on ...
"Survivor: Heroes vs. Villains" (CBS, 8:00): First, I must apologize to my coworkers who were subjected to my squeals, laughter and grunts while I watched the show online (off the clock, of course). Secondly, how freakin' excited is TV Watch Party to have a show that makes me giddy like a fat kid with cake? The Watch Party knows that "Survivor" is my all-time favorite reality show and I didn't realize how much I missed it until I heard Jeff Probst summing up the past 19 seasons.
There's been a lot of viewer comments floating around about the return of previous players. Pause it: I don't mind another All-Star season, although some of the player choices are a little suspect. Danielle who? Candace, really? Where is Yao-Man? What about Ozzy? Or even "Dreamz" for that matter? Sandra Diaz-Twine, a villain, says she's going to be meaner this time around. I barely even remember her speaking during her stint on Pearl Islands.
The show wastes no time putting the castaways to the test in a very physical reward challenge. Probst says they're playing for fire, but we all know they're playing for bragging rights. The game is a brutal version of football, except they don't have any protective gear. Heroes Rupert and Stephenie both suffer injuries (him, a toe broken in three places and her a dislocated then relocated shoulder). Cirie was tossing the girls around left and right, while Sandra stripped Sugar of her bikini top. Too bad it didn't stop her from scoring a point for the Heroes. James completely bulldozed his competition and the Heroes win the first challenge. Back at camp, the Heroes are sitting high on the hog when they manage to snag four chickens. Props to them for being smart enough to build a coop instead of eating them all on the first day. J.T and James form an instant alliance and Sandra and Boston Rob hit it off nicely over on the Villain's beach. Jerri and Coach are making a love connection. Throw in the "Dragon Slayer's" unrequited bromance with Rob and you've got yourself a "Survivor" love triangle. There is so much wheelin', dealin' and lovin' going on, it's hard to keep track.
At the immunity challenge, an exhausting land/water/puzzle contraption, the Heroes get off to an early lead, but blow it when they can't solve the four-layer puzzle. This time it's the Villains who prevail, coming from behind for the win. Rewind: Are all the challenges going to be "take-twos" from previous seasons?
As the Heroes prepare for Tribal Council, former castmates start pairing up, leaving Sugar on the outside looking in. Cirie, Stephenie and Amanda's names are thrown into the mix and it becomes strategy vs. strength when the tribe can't decide who's the bigger threat. Do they get rid of a strong mental player or the weakest physical tribe member? Sugar, who couldn't even figure out how to work the Tribal Council ink pen, is the first person voted out in a 9-1 vote.
Do you think the tribe made the right move or will the mental juggernauts manage to control the game? It's going to be one hell of a season!
Funny lines from the castaways
- "I'm a villain. I think villains are smarter than heroes because they don't mind stabbing someone in the back to get where they wanna get. It's a proven fact ... Google it." - Russell, Villain
- "I'm a gangster in a Oprah suit." - Cirie, Hero
- Hero Amanda explains her jitters: "You know, like before you bungee jump ..." Uh, no sweetie. Let me just stop you right there. I will never know that feeling because the only time I will ever be in a "right-before-you-bungee-jump" position is the day Jack Bauer pushes me off the top floor of a parking garage.
CHANNEL SURFING
- On "Project Runway" (Lifetime, 10:00), the designers must create a look for Heidi Klum to wear on the April cover of Marie Claire magazine. Pause it: I don't buy fashion magazines. I wait until an airline contacts me about unused frequent flyer miles then I cash them in for the free subscriptions. Flamboyant Anthony reels in his tacky and produces a beautiful, structured cocktail dress for the win. Anna is auf'ed after she designs an outfit that I've seen a hundred times in the Jr. Miss department of Nordstrom. Of course the best line of the night goes to Anthony: "Life isn't fair so why in the hell should "Project Runway" be?"
- I really need the set director/writer people to get it right on "Grey's Anatomy" (ABC, 9:00). IT DOES NOT THUNDER IN SEATTLE!!!
- I finally got caught up on "High School Reunion" (TV Land, Wed., 9:00). It's great that all the couples are finding love or whatnot, but to guilt ladies man Antanus into proposing to his girlfriend of four years was a little over the top. You can't make someone be ready for marriage. But what do I know? He proposed. Feel free to leave that player's card on the table, Antanus.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Watch this, tape that - Thursday
Finally, a day worth blogging about. Here's what's on:
8:00
Watch this: "Survivor: Heroes vs. Villains" (CBS). Yay! My favorite reality TV show is back! The 20th season begins with 20 former castaways stranded in Samoa fighting for redemption. 2 hour premiere.
Tape that: "The Deep End" (ABC). I gave this show another shot and it's not hideous, but it is not Emmy material either. Mindless entertainment.
9:00
Watch this: "Grey's Anatomy" (ABC). A restaurant roof collapses on Valentine's Day.
See it online: "The Office" (NBC). The new CEO arrives.
10:00
Watch this: "Project Runway" (Lifetime). The winning look gets featured on the cover of Marie Claire with Heidi Klum as the model.
Tape that: "Private Practice" (ABC). Sam and Addison are at odds in more ways than one.
8:00
Watch this: "Survivor: Heroes vs. Villains" (CBS). Yay! My favorite reality TV show is back! The 20th season begins with 20 former castaways stranded in Samoa fighting for redemption. 2 hour premiere.
Tape that: "The Deep End" (ABC). I gave this show another shot and it's not hideous, but it is not Emmy material either. Mindless entertainment.
9:00
Watch this: "Grey's Anatomy" (ABC). A restaurant roof collapses on Valentine's Day.
See it online: "The Office" (NBC). The new CEO arrives.
10:00
Watch this: "Project Runway" (Lifetime). The winning look gets featured on the cover of Marie Claire with Heidi Klum as the model.
Tape that: "Private Practice" (ABC). Sam and Addison are at odds in more ways than one.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Watch this, tape that - Wednesday
Not a whole lot going on tonight. Here are your choices:
8:00
Viewer's choice. I can't find anything on worth watching except a repeat of "Grey's Anatomy" on Lifetime.
9:00
Watch this: "American Idol" (FOX). Hollywood week continues with the second heat of golden-ticket winners.
Tape that: "Criminal Minds" (CBS). The team hunts for an unsub who murders his victims in public places, hoping to cause widespread panic.
See it online: "Modern Family" (ABC).
*"Law & Order: SVU" (NBC) is a repeat.
10:00
Watch this: "Ugly Betty" (ABC). Betty tries to make the best of a Fashion Week assignment when she spots a hot new designer.
Tape that: "Psych" (USA). Juliet asks Gus to help find an old boyfriend.
See it online: "CSI: NY" (CBS). A racer dies when his car explodes on a New York street.
Also on: "Shear Genius" (Bravo).
8:00
Viewer's choice. I can't find anything on worth watching except a repeat of "Grey's Anatomy" on Lifetime.
9:00
Watch this: "American Idol" (FOX). Hollywood week continues with the second heat of golden-ticket winners.
Tape that: "Criminal Minds" (CBS). The team hunts for an unsub who murders his victims in public places, hoping to cause widespread panic.
See it online: "Modern Family" (ABC).
*"Law & Order: SVU" (NBC) is a repeat.
10:00
Watch this: "Ugly Betty" (ABC). Betty tries to make the best of a Fashion Week assignment when she spots a hot new designer.
Tape that: "Psych" (USA). Juliet asks Gus to help find an old boyfriend.
See it online: "CSI: NY" (CBS). A racer dies when his car explodes on a New York street.
Also on: "Shear Genius" (Bravo).
Let the games begin
The Olympics start Friday and NBC is not skimping on the Oly-themed shows. But we'll get to that later. I need a minute to finish gagging on all their "inspirational motivation". VOMITING!
"Lost" (ABC, 9:00): I finally figured out what they are doing this season. Aside from trying to give me a brain aneurysm, the writers are using a storytelling tactic called "flash-sideways". It's a season of "what ifs" vs. "what is" and the stories run parallel. Tonight's episode peel back the many layers of Kate and reveal how she and Claire would have crossed paths off the island.
After breaking free from the federal agent, Kate hijacks a cab with Claire in the backseat. Pause it: Obviously they are still in 2004 because there is no way a woman in handcuffs would get past airport security. *Montage of the shoe bomber, the underwear bomber and me sneaking my extra ounces of liquid onto the plane* On second thought ...
Ever since Claire disappeared on the island, Kate has been baby Aaron's second mom. After they were rescued, she passed him off as her own and raised him until they returned to the island. In the present, Claire was in Los Angeles to give her baby up for adoption but the couple backed out of the deal. She goes into labor and it's Kate who's by her side when she gives birth, just like she was on the island. Rewind: Did you catch that the man who delivered her baby, Dr. Goodspeed, was actually Ethan Rom? He's the man that kidnapped Claire on the island. Creepy!
I'm enjoying how the show is tying in how the characters would've still been connected even if Flight 815 hadn't crashed. It's also giving us a glimpse of how their lives would've been reshaped. In March, we'll get to see episodes centered around Ben (Mar. 9), Sawyer (Mar. 16) and Sun/Jin (Mar. 30). Executive producer Carlton Cuse urges viewer to forget about everything you've learned from previous seasons' flashbacks. "All that matters now are the flash-sideways stories," he says.
"The Biggest Loser" (NBC, 8:00): The teams head to the Olympic Training Center in Colorado to get inspiration from some of the country's top athletes. The teams move from pairs to individuals with two people getting eliminated this week. The person who falls below the red line goes home automatically and the two people below the yellow line are put to an elimination vote.
We already know that NBC is airing the Olympics. Do we really need to be subjected to an Olympic-themed episode of "Biggest Loser"? The only thing worth caring about was that hot potato figure skater. His name is not important. Just believe me when I say I'll be leading a one woman hotness parade for him during the pairs figure skating competition. He was smokin'!
At the weigh-in, the Red Team's Melissa gains a pound and is automatically sent home. Bye Bye. See ya! Don't let the door hit cha! I haven't disliked a contestant this much since Heba from a few seasons ago. Orange Team's Cheryl and Darrell from the Black Team fall below the yellow line and get a chance to fight to stay in an elimination challenge. They must keep their "Olympic torch" lit in a weird balancing act. Really? The results? To be continued.
Last chance rant: NBC, your pockets are showing! The network must be really hard up for money with all the freaking product placement ads on this show. If Bob tells me one more time to chew Extra Sugar-free gum I'm going to mash his face into my armpit and continue to eat my cake and ice cream. And how much do I hate Allison Sweeney as the host of this show? She's completely useless.
CHANNEL SURFING
Ellen's comic relief kept the mood light as the judges crushed the dreams of instant fame seekers on "American Idol" (FOX, 8:00). "You frightened me! Sexy and scary ... it's a fine line," she tells the obnoxious Skiiboski. I really wanted to see small town girl Vanessa Wolfe (of aeroplane fame) to make it through, but her nerves got the best of her. Best performance of the night was Janell Wheeler singing "American Boy" on acoustic guitar.
After these messages: Toyota is eating a big helping of humble pie, kind of like those Dominos Pizza commercials where they admit their crusts taste like cardboard, except Toyota's mistake might kill you ... I absolutely LOVE the Volkswagon "slugbug color" commersh. It was my favorite Super Bowl ad.
"Lost" (ABC, 9:00): I finally figured out what they are doing this season. Aside from trying to give me a brain aneurysm, the writers are using a storytelling tactic called "flash-sideways". It's a season of "what ifs" vs. "what is" and the stories run parallel. Tonight's episode peel back the many layers of Kate and reveal how she and Claire would have crossed paths off the island.After breaking free from the federal agent, Kate hijacks a cab with Claire in the backseat. Pause it: Obviously they are still in 2004 because there is no way a woman in handcuffs would get past airport security. *Montage of the shoe bomber, the underwear bomber and me sneaking my extra ounces of liquid onto the plane* On second thought ...
Ever since Claire disappeared on the island, Kate has been baby Aaron's second mom. After they were rescued, she passed him off as her own and raised him until they returned to the island. In the present, Claire was in Los Angeles to give her baby up for adoption but the couple backed out of the deal. She goes into labor and it's Kate who's by her side when she gives birth, just like she was on the island. Rewind: Did you catch that the man who delivered her baby, Dr. Goodspeed, was actually Ethan Rom? He's the man that kidnapped Claire on the island. Creepy!
I'm enjoying how the show is tying in how the characters would've still been connected even if Flight 815 hadn't crashed. It's also giving us a glimpse of how their lives would've been reshaped. In March, we'll get to see episodes centered around Ben (Mar. 9), Sawyer (Mar. 16) and Sun/Jin (Mar. 30). Executive producer Carlton Cuse urges viewer to forget about everything you've learned from previous seasons' flashbacks. "All that matters now are the flash-sideways stories," he says.
"The Biggest Loser" (NBC, 8:00): The teams head to the Olympic Training Center in Colorado to get inspiration from some of the country's top athletes. The teams move from pairs to individuals with two people getting eliminated this week. The person who falls below the red line goes home automatically and the two people below the yellow line are put to an elimination vote.
We already know that NBC is airing the Olympics. Do we really need to be subjected to an Olympic-themed episode of "Biggest Loser"? The only thing worth caring about was that hot potato figure skater. His name is not important. Just believe me when I say I'll be leading a one woman hotness parade for him during the pairs figure skating competition. He was smokin'!
At the weigh-in, the Red Team's Melissa gains a pound and is automatically sent home. Bye Bye. See ya! Don't let the door hit cha! I haven't disliked a contestant this much since Heba from a few seasons ago. Orange Team's Cheryl and Darrell from the Black Team fall below the yellow line and get a chance to fight to stay in an elimination challenge. They must keep their "Olympic torch" lit in a weird balancing act. Really? The results? To be continued.
Last chance rant: NBC, your pockets are showing! The network must be really hard up for money with all the freaking product placement ads on this show. If Bob tells me one more time to chew Extra Sugar-free gum I'm going to mash his face into my armpit and continue to eat my cake and ice cream. And how much do I hate Allison Sweeney as the host of this show? She's completely useless.
CHANNEL SURFING
Ellen's comic relief kept the mood light as the judges crushed the dreams of instant fame seekers on "American Idol" (FOX, 8:00). "You frightened me! Sexy and scary ... it's a fine line," she tells the obnoxious Skiiboski. I really wanted to see small town girl Vanessa Wolfe (of aeroplane fame) to make it through, but her nerves got the best of her. Best performance of the night was Janell Wheeler singing "American Boy" on acoustic guitar.
After these messages: Toyota is eating a big helping of humble pie, kind of like those Dominos Pizza commercials where they admit their crusts taste like cardboard, except Toyota's mistake might kill you ... I absolutely LOVE the Volkswagon "slugbug color" commersh. It was my favorite Super Bowl ad.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Watch this, tape that - Tuesday
Here are some choices for the night:
8:00
Watch this: "American Idol" (FOX). Hollywood Week finally begins and we get to see what Ellen will bring to the judges table. She'd better not disappoint!
Tape that: "The Biggest Loser" (NBC). It's a 2-hour show, so it may get in the way of watching/taping "Lost". But if you don't want to sit through the repetitive product placements then you'd be wise to hit record.
9:00
Watch this: "Past Life" (FOX). I have never heard of this show, but the preview looks interesting. A teen recalls witnessing a murder-abduction.
Tape that: "Lost" (ABC). I'm so glad I taped this last week since I had to watch the ending multiple times. This week's episode is Kate-centric.
10:00
Watch this: "Teen Mom" (MTV). Unseen footage from the season.
Tape that: "The Michael Vick Project" (BET). I haven't had a chance to see last week's episode so I'm playing catch up.
See it On Demand: "The Good Wife" (CBS). All the goodness with little commercial interruption.
See it on second run: "Millionaire Matchmaker" (Bravo). Nobody tells it like it is the way Patti does. Loves it!
8:00
Watch this: "American Idol" (FOX). Hollywood Week finally begins and we get to see what Ellen will bring to the judges table. She'd better not disappoint!
Tape that: "The Biggest Loser" (NBC). It's a 2-hour show, so it may get in the way of watching/taping "Lost". But if you don't want to sit through the repetitive product placements then you'd be wise to hit record.
9:00
Watch this: "Past Life" (FOX). I have never heard of this show, but the preview looks interesting. A teen recalls witnessing a murder-abduction.
Tape that: "Lost" (ABC). I'm so glad I taped this last week since I had to watch the ending multiple times. This week's episode is Kate-centric.
10:00
Watch this: "Teen Mom" (MTV). Unseen footage from the season.
Tape that: "The Michael Vick Project" (BET). I haven't had a chance to see last week's episode so I'm playing catch up.
See it On Demand: "The Good Wife" (CBS). All the goodness with little commercial interruption.
See it on second run: "Millionaire Matchmaker" (Bravo). Nobody tells it like it is the way Patti does. Loves it!
What's wrong with this picture?
Seriously, I think I have lost all will to blog. I watch the shows. I take the notes. And when it comes time to write ... crickets. A man falling from space on "CSI: Miami"? Really? A hoarder with a special-needs kid? It was more like an episode of "Intervention". Even "Damages" was one of those throw away episodes that didn't reveal anything important to the story. And don't get me started on the mess that has become "24". Jack gets "stabbed" then recovers fast enough to fling the knife and hit a man square in the voice box. I think the body count is at 45 this season.
I don't know if I'm just bored with what's on or if the Watch Party needs some spicing up. Pause it: Buying a 32" LCD TV didn't do the trick. I'm hoping the return of "The Amazing Race" and "Survivor" will get my juices flowing again. Do they make a little blue pill to get my TV mojo up? Just asking ...
I don't know if I'm just bored with what's on or if the Watch Party needs some spicing up. Pause it: Buying a 32" LCD TV didn't do the trick. I'm hoping the return of "The Amazing Race" and "Survivor" will get my juices flowing again. Do they make a little blue pill to get my TV mojo up? Just asking ...
Monday, February 8, 2010
Watch this, tape that - Monday
I'm really trying to get back into the habit of blogging, but last week's shows left me a little bored. And don't even get me started on "Lost"! I'm still nursing that headache. I had to watch the last 20 minutes at least 3 times to see if I had missed any clues. Here's what's on tonight:
8:00
Watch this: "Secret Life of the American Teenager" (ABC Family). Amy seeks kissing tips. We already know she needs pointers on safe sex as well.
9:00
Watch this: "Make It or Break It" (ABC Family). The girls accompany Payson to her high school prom.
Tape that: "24" (FOX). Sucky doesn't even begin to explain how bad this season is. Sure Jack Bauer can save a city from the brink of destruction. The real test is can he save this show.
Catch it later: "Celebrity Fit Club" (VH1). Who wouldn't want to see Bobby Brown and Kevin Federline sweatin' to the oldies?
10:00
Watch this: "CSI: Miami" (CBS). The team leaves earth to solve a murder aboard a private space shuttle. Hopefully they leave Horatio up there.
Tape that: "Damages" (FX). I like to curl up with this one. Loving this season!
See it later: "Hoarders" (A&E). You could trade this for "CSI: Miami" if you don't want to wait until 2 a.m. to see.
8:00
Watch this: "Secret Life of the American Teenager" (ABC Family). Amy seeks kissing tips. We already know she needs pointers on safe sex as well.
9:00
Watch this: "Make It or Break It" (ABC Family). The girls accompany Payson to her high school prom.
Tape that: "24" (FOX). Sucky doesn't even begin to explain how bad this season is. Sure Jack Bauer can save a city from the brink of destruction. The real test is can he save this show.
Catch it later: "Celebrity Fit Club" (VH1). Who wouldn't want to see Bobby Brown and Kevin Federline sweatin' to the oldies?
10:00
Watch this: "CSI: Miami" (CBS). The team leaves earth to solve a murder aboard a private space shuttle. Hopefully they leave Horatio up there.
Tape that: "Damages" (FX). I like to curl up with this one. Loving this season!
See it later: "Hoarders" (A&E). You could trade this for "CSI: Miami" if you don't want to wait until 2 a.m. to see.
Friday, February 5, 2010
Watch this, tape that - Weekend
It's Super Bowl weekend. Enough said.
FRIDAY
8:00
Watch this: "Supernanny" (ABC): A couple with four kids, including 3-year-old triplets, need Jo's help.
Tape that: "Ghost Whisperer" (CBS): Whomever the ghost, I'm sure Melinda will be running around in a skimpy nightgown.
9:00
Watch this: "Medium" (CBS): Allison sees the face of the same man on every person she encounters, including husband Joe.
SATURDAY
10:00
Watch this: "48 Hours Mystery" (CBS): It's just interesting!
SUNDAY
3:25
Watch this: "Super Bowl XLIV" (CBS): Indianapolis Colts vs. New Orleans Saints. GO SAINTS!
7:00
Watch this: "Undercover Boss" (CBS): Executives work undercover in their own companies. I can tell this is going to become one of my favorite shows!
FRIDAY
8:00
Watch this: "Supernanny" (ABC): A couple with four kids, including 3-year-old triplets, need Jo's help.
Tape that: "Ghost Whisperer" (CBS): Whomever the ghost, I'm sure Melinda will be running around in a skimpy nightgown.
9:00
Watch this: "Medium" (CBS): Allison sees the face of the same man on every person she encounters, including husband Joe.
SATURDAY
10:00
Watch this: "48 Hours Mystery" (CBS): It's just interesting!
SUNDAY
3:25
Watch this: "Super Bowl XLIV" (CBS): Indianapolis Colts vs. New Orleans Saints. GO SAINTS!
7:00
Watch this: "Undercover Boss" (CBS): Executives work undercover in their own companies. I can tell this is going to become one of my favorite shows!
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Watch this, tape that - Thursday
We're over the hump. It's a quick ride down the other side.
8:00
Watch this: "Surviving Survivor" (CBS): The show profiles some of the former castaways and most memorable moments.
Tape that: "Bones" (FOX): This show is taking a more comedic turn, but I'm still enjoying the chemistry among the cast.
See it online: "The Deep End" (ABC): Is anybody watching this?
9:00
Watch this: "CSI:" (CBS): The team investigates the deaths of two high school students.
Tape that: "The Office" (NBC): Dunder Mifflin is sold.
See it online: "Grey's Anatomy" (ABC): Derek begins his new role as hospital chief while Bailey and Meredith's patient awakens during surgery. That's gotta hurt.
10:00
Watch this: "Private Practice" (ABC): A couple have a horrible choice to make when they need to decide which of their two daughters to save with their newborn's blood.
Tape that: "Project Runway" (Lifetime): Now that Ping is gone, who's going to fill the weirdo role?
8:00
Watch this: "Surviving Survivor" (CBS): The show profiles some of the former castaways and most memorable moments.
Tape that: "Bones" (FOX): This show is taking a more comedic turn, but I'm still enjoying the chemistry among the cast.
See it online: "The Deep End" (ABC): Is anybody watching this?
9:00
Watch this: "CSI:" (CBS): The team investigates the deaths of two high school students.
Tape that: "The Office" (NBC): Dunder Mifflin is sold.
See it online: "Grey's Anatomy" (ABC): Derek begins his new role as hospital chief while Bailey and Meredith's patient awakens during surgery. That's gotta hurt.
10:00
Watch this: "Private Practice" (ABC): A couple have a horrible choice to make when they need to decide which of their two daughters to save with their newborn's blood.
Tape that: "Project Runway" (Lifetime): Now that Ping is gone, who's going to fill the weirdo role?
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Watch this, tape that - Wednesday
Here's what's on:
8:00
Watch this: "Super Bowl's Greatest Commercials" (CBS): There's nothing else on. Prep for the weekend.
9:00
Watch this: "American Idol" (FOX): The prelims conclude. Let's get to cutting!
Tape that: "Criminal Minds" (CBS): I've recovered from the whole weird doll episode and giving this show a try again. A con artist turns killer as he slips deeper into mental illness.
Catch it later this week: "Law & Order: SVU" (NBC): Show will most likely repeat on Saturday.
See it online: "Modern Family" (ABC). Gloria needs legal advice.
10:00
Watch this: "Shear Genius" (Bravo): Cause I'm a sucker for reality competitions.
Tape that: "Ugly Betty" (ABC). The network is pulling the plug on "Betty" at the end of the season. See it while you can.
See it online: "CSI: NY" (CBS): The team delves into the world of vampires. What show hasn't jumped on that bandwagon?
8:00
Watch this: "Super Bowl's Greatest Commercials" (CBS): There's nothing else on. Prep for the weekend.
9:00
Watch this: "American Idol" (FOX): The prelims conclude. Let's get to cutting!
Tape that: "Criminal Minds" (CBS): I've recovered from the whole weird doll episode and giving this show a try again. A con artist turns killer as he slips deeper into mental illness.
Catch it later this week: "Law & Order: SVU" (NBC): Show will most likely repeat on Saturday.
See it online: "Modern Family" (ABC). Gloria needs legal advice.
10:00
Watch this: "Shear Genius" (Bravo): Cause I'm a sucker for reality competitions.
Tape that: "Ugly Betty" (ABC). The network is pulling the plug on "Betty" at the end of the season. See it while you can.
See it online: "CSI: NY" (CBS): The team delves into the world of vampires. What show hasn't jumped on that bandwagon?
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Second place is still losing
I'm at least 5 hours behind on my TV watching, so if you miss talking about your favorite shows, feel free to drop me a line. While everyone else is watch the Super Bowl, I'll be watching "24" and "Make It or Break It" online.
"The Biggest Loser" (NBC, 9:00): I can't believe "Loser" had the nerve to go head-to-head against "Lost". Thankfully I was taping "Lost", but that meant sitting through 2 hours of this overblown show. No fast forwarding tonight. Sad face.
The Blue and Yellow teams returned to the ranch to see which pair had lost the most weight after 30 days. The team who wins not only gets immunity, but also has the only vote at this week's elimination. Before the weigh-in, the Blue and Yellow are treated to a last chance workout. Bob calls it a "rite of passage," but it looked like aerobic torture to me. I work out with a trainer and let me tell you - people who do that must have some sort of "mean gene". (Sorry, Dan!) The Blue team loses a combined total of 63 lbs., but the Yellow team smashes them by losing 76 with O'neal losing 51 lbs. of it.
Pause it: This show is so freakin' long and repetitive. I ran to Metropolitan Market to get my free pineapple. When I got back I learned that Jillian had clearly gotten her therapist license since she was going around digging into everyone's psyche. Michael, the lone member of the White team had won immunity and the Pink team had earned a two-pound disadvantage. The saddest part was Metropolitan Market was out of free pineapples.
At the final weigh-in, Michael is on par to break the record for losing 100 lbs. the fastest. He's got 17 more to go to best Rudy from last season. Pink overcame their two-pound deficit by pulling a good number. The Red team was slowly sliding towards that dreaded yellow line and for a second I thought they were going to reap what they had sowed for throwing the first two weigh-ins. But it was John, the last member of the Brown team twins, who got sent home. I really wanted him to make it to makeover week just so I could see what his neck looked like without that beard on it. Thank goodness he had shaved it in the "where-are-they-now" clip.
Last chance rant: Miggy said she had an appendectomy, but it seemed like she went in for a hang nail. Who works out the day after surgery?
CHANNEL SURFING
Some tidbits I learned from the "Teen Mom Reunion" (MTV, 10:00): In the words of Carrie Bradshaw from "Sex and the City," Maci and Ryan are "so over they need a new word for over." Ryan said he sees his son Bentley as an obligation and if Maci wasn't the mother of his child he would never speak to her again. RUDE! ... Amber and Gary got back together and he moved into her apartment. Amber said there's a chance she may be pregnant again and I have to say, she was looking a little preggers in the face ... Catelynn and Tyler are putting off marriage until after college. Baby Carly's adoptive parents sent a letter and pictures and we are able to see her first Christmas and christening. Very touching. ... Farrah is still Farrah and defiant until the end. I was feeling a little sympathy for her at first, but once her mother took the stage with her, she reverted back to her old b!&chy self. No word on the outcome of her mother getting arrested for allegedly choking her.
"American Idol" (FOX, 8:00): The audition stage is almost over and Denver was the next to last stop. The talent turned out in droves and 26 people made it through to Hollywood.
After these messages: I'm loving the new Pemco commercials with the "you go, no you go" guy and the "goat renter" guy. They really hit the Seattle stereotypes right on the head.
"The Biggest Loser" (NBC, 9:00): I can't believe "Loser" had the nerve to go head-to-head against "Lost". Thankfully I was taping "Lost", but that meant sitting through 2 hours of this overblown show. No fast forwarding tonight. Sad face.The Blue and Yellow teams returned to the ranch to see which pair had lost the most weight after 30 days. The team who wins not only gets immunity, but also has the only vote at this week's elimination. Before the weigh-in, the Blue and Yellow are treated to a last chance workout. Bob calls it a "rite of passage," but it looked like aerobic torture to me. I work out with a trainer and let me tell you - people who do that must have some sort of "mean gene". (Sorry, Dan!) The Blue team loses a combined total of 63 lbs., but the Yellow team smashes them by losing 76 with O'neal losing 51 lbs. of it.
Pause it: This show is so freakin' long and repetitive. I ran to Metropolitan Market to get my free pineapple. When I got back I learned that Jillian had clearly gotten her therapist license since she was going around digging into everyone's psyche. Michael, the lone member of the White team had won immunity and the Pink team had earned a two-pound disadvantage. The saddest part was Metropolitan Market was out of free pineapples.
At the final weigh-in, Michael is on par to break the record for losing 100 lbs. the fastest. He's got 17 more to go to best Rudy from last season. Pink overcame their two-pound deficit by pulling a good number. The Red team was slowly sliding towards that dreaded yellow line and for a second I thought they were going to reap what they had sowed for throwing the first two weigh-ins. But it was John, the last member of the Brown team twins, who got sent home. I really wanted him to make it to makeover week just so I could see what his neck looked like without that beard on it. Thank goodness he had shaved it in the "where-are-they-now" clip.
Last chance rant: Miggy said she had an appendectomy, but it seemed like she went in for a hang nail. Who works out the day after surgery?
CHANNEL SURFING
Some tidbits I learned from the "Teen Mom Reunion" (MTV, 10:00): In the words of Carrie Bradshaw from "Sex and the City," Maci and Ryan are "so over they need a new word for over." Ryan said he sees his son Bentley as an obligation and if Maci wasn't the mother of his child he would never speak to her again. RUDE! ... Amber and Gary got back together and he moved into her apartment. Amber said there's a chance she may be pregnant again and I have to say, she was looking a little preggers in the face ... Catelynn and Tyler are putting off marriage until after college. Baby Carly's adoptive parents sent a letter and pictures and we are able to see her first Christmas and christening. Very touching. ... Farrah is still Farrah and defiant until the end. I was feeling a little sympathy for her at first, but once her mother took the stage with her, she reverted back to her old b!&chy self. No word on the outcome of her mother getting arrested for allegedly choking her.
"American Idol" (FOX, 8:00): The audition stage is almost over and Denver was the next to last stop. The talent turned out in droves and 26 people made it through to Hollywood.
After these messages: I'm loving the new Pemco commercials with the "you go, no you go" guy and the "goat renter" guy. They really hit the Seattle stereotypes right on the head.
Watch this, tape that - Tuesday
FINALLY! It's here! The final season of "Lost" has arrived! God has answered my prayers and brought exciting TV to Tuesday nights.
8:00
Watch this: "The Biggest Loser" (NBC): The eliminated teams return to the ranch after 30 days at home to try to reenter the competition.
Tape that: "Lost: The Final Chapter" (ABC): A series recap looks at the first five seasons. You'll definitely need to watch this before jumping into the premiere.
Catch it later: "American Idol" (FOX). The best clips will be on YouTube.
9:00
Tape that: "Lost" (ABC): Some of you may want to watch it live but beware of the brain crushing twists and turns. I've already seen the first four minutes and I know from experience there will be more than one occasion that you'll wish you could rewind that.
10:00
Watch this: "Teen Mom" (MTV): Dr. Drew chats with the girls and we see where they are now. Since "Lost" is taping, you might as well watch.
Catch it on second run: "The Michael Vick Project" (BET): My curiosity is piqued.
See it online: "The Good Wife" (CBS): Nothing else matters when "Lost" is on. Sucks to be you, Alicia.
8:00
Watch this: "The Biggest Loser" (NBC): The eliminated teams return to the ranch after 30 days at home to try to reenter the competition.
Tape that: "Lost: The Final Chapter" (ABC): A series recap looks at the first five seasons. You'll definitely need to watch this before jumping into the premiere.
Catch it later: "American Idol" (FOX). The best clips will be on YouTube.
9:00
Tape that: "Lost" (ABC): Some of you may want to watch it live but beware of the brain crushing twists and turns. I've already seen the first four minutes and I know from experience there will be more than one occasion that you'll wish you could rewind that.
10:00
Watch this: "Teen Mom" (MTV): Dr. Drew chats with the girls and we see where they are now. Since "Lost" is taping, you might as well watch.
Catch it on second run: "The Michael Vick Project" (BET): My curiosity is piqued.
See it online: "The Good Wife" (CBS): Nothing else matters when "Lost" is on. Sucks to be you, Alicia.
Damaged goods
There are a lot of good shows that air on Monday night. The 10 p.m. time slot is jammed packed so it's a freaking juggling act that has me up well past 3 a.m. to catch shows on second run. And I'm getting sloppy with my recording skills. I set my recorder to only tape 4 minutes of "24," so I'll have to watch that online. But I guarantee you it wasn't as good as ...
"Damages" (FX, 10:00): Since I didn't get a chance to blog about last week's episode, let me bring you up to speed:Patty Hewes, played by Glenn Close (above), has been appointed by the government to recover billions of dollars in stolen assets from the largest investment fraud in U.S. history. Pause it: Think Bernie Madoff's Ponzi scheme times 5. Patty's former protege/victim Ellen is now working for the District Attorney's office, but she and Patty are still working the same case. The common goal is to bring down the Madoffs ... er, Tobin family and recoup the money for thousands of families.
We already know that Patty's recently appointed partner Tom Shayes is this season's mystery death. It's the who and the why that they haven't revealed yet. We also know the he was a victim of Tobin's Ponzi scheme and that his family lost everything. Tom is still in touch with Ellen, but it's not clear if they are romantically involved. I tend to think not. Tom doesn't seem like the type.
The other mystery is who was behind the wheel of the car that crashed into Patty. This show goes back and forth in time so much that I can hardly tell when we're six months later or in the present. The car is registered to Tom, but I don't really care who was driving it. It was just great to see Patty shaken for once.
I'm loving how they are using a current event as the basis of this season's plot. Most ripped-from-the-headlines shows are poorly done *cough "Law & Order" cough*, but "Damages" has turned Ponzi into a psychological thriller. Who's loving this season? Who's on your short list for Tom's murder?
Great line I heard on "Damages": "You're only as happy as your saddest child." Think on that.
CHANNEL SURFING
- "Men of a Certain Age" (TNT, 10:00): I was happy to see that Joe is still dating Dori. They make a cute couple. I had to laugh at Owen sneaking into the kitchen to eat in the middle of the night because I eat like that too. At least he can blame his sweet tooth on being a diabetic. Mine? I just like to eat.
- On "Hoarders" (A&E, 10:00), one of the subjects was a Houston firefighter. He should have just burned his own house down and started over. And I understand the brotherhood of firemen, so seeing them all willing to help clean was touching, but if I were in that situation I would definitely NOT have my coworkers helping me clean out my place. "Resa, why are you hanging on to this size 8 when you know you're a ..." The horror!!!
- WOW!!! Ryan, played by Jonathan Togo, on "CSI: Miami" (CBS, 10:00) has packed on a few pounds. He looks like he's entering his second trimester.
- "Fantasia for Real" (VH1, 10:00) I don't know who's more useless: Teeny for having no motivation to find a real job, or Fantasia for enabling him to have no motivation to find a job.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Watch this, tape that - Monday
I'm back!!! So sorry for the unplanned hiatus. My laptop got an "attitude adjustment". Too bad it cost me my grocery stipend. Priorities ...
8:00
Watch this: "The Secret Life of the American Teenager" (ABC Family): Unless you're willing to sit through "The Bachelor" (ABC), your pickings are slim.
9:00
Watch this: "Make It or Break It" (ABC Family): Did I not tell you this teen romp is addicting? Payson gets a surprising romantic gesture at school.
Tape that: "24" (FOX): I'm still mad at the writers for having Jack get his face bashed in only to have not nary a drop of blood on him at the end of the hour. It's called continuity people!
See it on second run: "BET Honors" (BET). Show will air again Saturday at 8:00.
10:00
Watch this: "Men of a Certain Age" (TNT): Joe's bookie runs a scam by exploiting his golfing skills.
Tape that: "Damages" (FX): This show travels through time more than that island on "Lost". You'll need to tape it just to keep up.
See it online: "CSI: Miami" (CBS): A killer is set for execution but gets a 24-hour stay after doubt is cast on his guilt.
See it on second run: "Hoarders" (A&E). Sorry that second run is at 2 a.m.
Also on: "Fashion Police" (E!): A recap of Grammy fashion; "Fantasia for Real" (VH1): Dysfunction at it's finest.
8:00
Watch this: "The Secret Life of the American Teenager" (ABC Family): Unless you're willing to sit through "The Bachelor" (ABC), your pickings are slim.
9:00
Watch this: "Make It or Break It" (ABC Family): Did I not tell you this teen romp is addicting? Payson gets a surprising romantic gesture at school.
Tape that: "24" (FOX): I'm still mad at the writers for having Jack get his face bashed in only to have not nary a drop of blood on him at the end of the hour. It's called continuity people!
See it on second run: "BET Honors" (BET). Show will air again Saturday at 8:00.
10:00
Watch this: "Men of a Certain Age" (TNT): Joe's bookie runs a scam by exploiting his golfing skills.
Tape that: "Damages" (FX): This show travels through time more than that island on "Lost". You'll need to tape it just to keep up.
See it online: "CSI: Miami" (CBS): A killer is set for execution but gets a 24-hour stay after doubt is cast on his guilt.
See it on second run: "Hoarders" (A&E). Sorry that second run is at 2 a.m.
Also on: "Fashion Police" (E!): A recap of Grammy fashion; "Fantasia for Real" (VH1): Dysfunction at it's finest.
The letdown
I get my laptop back. I'm excited to sit down and start blogging again then nothing. NOTHING. ABC gives me nothing to work with.
I wanted to like "Desperate Housewives" (Sun., 9:00), I really did. But the show needs to get rid of Angie Bolen already and move on with the story. The writers have obviously ran out of storylines for Susan and Mike. They have an ex-stripper living with them now. The only couple of interest is Bree and Orson, and even their scenes left me feeling guilty for chuckling at their banter about suicide.
"I forbid this! Do you hear me? You will not be killing yourself!" Bree exclaims. "... If I have to, I will be with you 24 hours a day!" Orson replies, "Well, being bored to death was not how I was planning to go, but we can try it your way." Morbid, I know.
I can usually count on a few laughs from the Scavos, but I'm tired of Tom and Lynette's my-wife-is-a-b#$&h schtick. The whole therapist thing was just time filler.
And do we even need to discuss "Brothers & Sisters" (Sun., 10:00)? This show is so predictable now. Phone conversation leads to dinner at the Walkers where a fight breaks out, thus setting up the plot for the episode. I thought I was watching "Brothers & Sisters", not "24". The best thing from this episode was watching Holly whore herself to get the upper hand on Ojai. Let's get it together writers!
CHANNEL SURFING
The Plavix commercial where the hospital gurney is following the unsuspecting man around is just downright creepy. But sadly, it was the most intriguing thing I saw tonight.
I wanted to like "Desperate Housewives" (Sun., 9:00), I really did. But the show needs to get rid of Angie Bolen already and move on with the story. The writers have obviously ran out of storylines for Susan and Mike. They have an ex-stripper living with them now. The only couple of interest is Bree and Orson, and even their scenes left me feeling guilty for chuckling at their banter about suicide.
"I forbid this! Do you hear me? You will not be killing yourself!" Bree exclaims. "... If I have to, I will be with you 24 hours a day!" Orson replies, "Well, being bored to death was not how I was planning to go, but we can try it your way." Morbid, I know.
I can usually count on a few laughs from the Scavos, but I'm tired of Tom and Lynette's my-wife-is-a-b#$&h schtick. The whole therapist thing was just time filler.
And do we even need to discuss "Brothers & Sisters" (Sun., 10:00)? This show is so predictable now. Phone conversation leads to dinner at the Walkers where a fight breaks out, thus setting up the plot for the episode. I thought I was watching "Brothers & Sisters", not "24". The best thing from this episode was watching Holly whore herself to get the upper hand on Ojai. Let's get it together writers!
CHANNEL SURFING
The Plavix commercial where the hospital gurney is following the unsuspecting man around is just downright creepy. But sadly, it was the most intriguing thing I saw tonight.
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