Indecision strikes again. With graduation just 5 months away, the panic about what I'm going to do next is starting to set in. More than likely I'm probably going to pursue some kind of student affairs job in order to make use of my new degree, but I'm trying to figure out exactly what I want to do.
I've always wanted to go back into orientation, but those jobs are hard to come by. Then, there's residence life, which I have a lot of experience in, but I really cannot see myself going back and being totally happy. The crazy thing is, all of the schools where I'd like to work are looking for hall directors, so I can apply for a job that I'm familiar with, work at a school that interests me in a city I want to live in, but be in a job that won't make me 100% happy. What to do?
Fortunately, my folks have been super supportive during this little, premature meltdown. They pretty much told me to not jump into something that won't make me happy...I guess it's just that easy.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
My Giddiness Leads to Like-Like...
This is why Scrubs is such a great show. Seriously, how can you not just laugh and smile after seeing this webisode?
Monday, January 26, 2009
My Scrubs Rants
It looks like ABC is moving Scrubs around the schedule, which seems oddly familiar to what NBC did to the medical sitcom. I'm not opposed to having Scrubs on a new night, especially if it is in the best interest of the show, but having it on Wednesdays against American Idol seems like a death sentence.
Then again, maybe I'm just too doom and gloom because Scrubs has always only appealed to its fans whereas AI has broader sensibilities, so it may only be competing with Gary Unmarried for the scraps. Plus, Scrubs may get some Lost fans to tune in prior to their show going on air, and it gives the show a chance to be with some other scripted series rather than being stuck in between reality shows about the Border Patrol and hidden cameras.
Or maybe I'm being too optimistic with the previous scenario. I can't help but laugh at ABC's decision to move the show because it just reminds me of a deadbeat parent situation. Here ABC helps create Scrubs just to let it fend for itself, and then all of a sudden it wants to reconnect and save the show, just to let it down again. Scrubs' move to ABC may have gained it some attention from mommy and daddy, but it didn't get it that much more love.
It's just a little frustrating because ABC has a lot of potential for a good night of TV. I can't have my dream line-up of Scrubs/Samantha Who, Pushing Daisies, and Eli Stone (R.I.P. PD), but why not have the S/SW block with new shows Better of Ted and In the Motherhood (or maybe even Grey's Anatomy), and finish the night with Ugly Betty. This line-up could do well on Mondays (despite an overcrowded night, but more on that later) or even Thursdays (to appease Grey's fans).
The funny thing is this move may be a blessing in disguise because most of the fans are hoping for low ratings so this will be the last season, and the idea of it continuing or having a spin-off will fade along with it. Now, I've always been against having the show go on without Zach Braff, but I did warm up to the idea of a Dr. Cox spin-off, and I think this season could be a nice diving board for said show.
Out of all of the possible Scrubs spin-offs, the only two I felt could work would be Dr. Cox's Sacred Heart or Elliot's private practice. Now that Elliot's back with J.D., I can't support her own show since J.D. would have to be involved OR they'd have to break up...AGAIN. I'm not OK with that and I probably couldn't make myself watch it, so a Dr. Cox show makes more sense.
This season's building up to Dr. Cox taking over as Chief of Medicine at Sacred Heart, and future episodes seem to be focusing on his tough transition into this new role. I could see a show that continues his journey as Chief and dealing with a new crop of attendings and interns. They could even flesh out some of the smaller characters (e.g. Keith, Rex, Boone, and Slagathor) and let them step forward. Maybe bring back Heather Graham's Dr. Clock to play Dr. Cox's foil. This show would also bring everything full circle since Scrubs was about him as a teacher, and now we could see him as a mentee of Dr. Kelso.
Or we could just have a proper send-off for Scrubs, but I doubt anyone will be watching it since Idol will be on.
Then again, maybe I'm just too doom and gloom because Scrubs has always only appealed to its fans whereas AI has broader sensibilities, so it may only be competing with Gary Unmarried for the scraps. Plus, Scrubs may get some Lost fans to tune in prior to their show going on air, and it gives the show a chance to be with some other scripted series rather than being stuck in between reality shows about the Border Patrol and hidden cameras.
Or maybe I'm being too optimistic with the previous scenario. I can't help but laugh at ABC's decision to move the show because it just reminds me of a deadbeat parent situation. Here ABC helps create Scrubs just to let it fend for itself, and then all of a sudden it wants to reconnect and save the show, just to let it down again. Scrubs' move to ABC may have gained it some attention from mommy and daddy, but it didn't get it that much more love.
It's just a little frustrating because ABC has a lot of potential for a good night of TV. I can't have my dream line-up of Scrubs/Samantha Who, Pushing Daisies, and Eli Stone (R.I.P. PD), but why not have the S/SW block with new shows Better of Ted and In the Motherhood (or maybe even Grey's Anatomy), and finish the night with Ugly Betty. This line-up could do well on Mondays (despite an overcrowded night, but more on that later) or even Thursdays (to appease Grey's fans).
The funny thing is this move may be a blessing in disguise because most of the fans are hoping for low ratings so this will be the last season, and the idea of it continuing or having a spin-off will fade along with it. Now, I've always been against having the show go on without Zach Braff, but I did warm up to the idea of a Dr. Cox spin-off, and I think this season could be a nice diving board for said show.
Out of all of the possible Scrubs spin-offs, the only two I felt could work would be Dr. Cox's Sacred Heart or Elliot's private practice. Now that Elliot's back with J.D., I can't support her own show since J.D. would have to be involved OR they'd have to break up...AGAIN. I'm not OK with that and I probably couldn't make myself watch it, so a Dr. Cox show makes more sense.
This season's building up to Dr. Cox taking over as Chief of Medicine at Sacred Heart, and future episodes seem to be focusing on his tough transition into this new role. I could see a show that continues his journey as Chief and dealing with a new crop of attendings and interns. They could even flesh out some of the smaller characters (e.g. Keith, Rex, Boone, and Slagathor) and let them step forward. Maybe bring back Heather Graham's Dr. Clock to play Dr. Cox's foil. This show would also bring everything full circle since Scrubs was about him as a teacher, and now we could see him as a mentee of Dr. Kelso.
Or we could just have a proper send-off for Scrubs, but I doubt anyone will be watching it since Idol will be on.
My Two-Cents on 'The Wrestler'
THERE WILL BE SPOILERS:
All I can say about "The Wrestler" is that I'm torn about it. On one hand Rourke deserves all of the hype and praise for his performance. The same can be said about Tomei, but maybe to a lesser extent. It also was a slice of real life, but maybe it was a little too real.
On the other hand, I didn't quite agree with all of the plot points. For example, we see Randy "The Ram" trying to make amends with his estranged daughter, and he wins her back with this heart-wrenching speech just to let her down once again. I know this is supposed to be a gritty, character drama about a flawed man, but why did he have to be the stereotypical "deadbeat dad"? I even remember saying to myself, "Don't f-ck this up", and of course he did.
Then, he spends the rest of the movie trying to woo this stripper, and when she finally tells him that she's there for him in order to keep him from potentially killing himself in the ring, he just blows her off. Why should we care about this guy when he obviously doesn't care about anyone else? Yes, he's tragic, and yes he's at a crossroad, but he clearly goes down the wrong path. I was expecting more focus on his relationships, and maybe a bit more feel-goodiness.
Now, I don't think all movies should have happy endings, heck I usually love movies with down endings, but I was expecting to feel a little bit better than I did when I walked out of the theater. Also, the ending left me a little unsatisfied, which is a little odd since I usually like unconventional endings (like No Country for Old Men). I guess I just had a different movie in my head, and I felt that the trailer really jerked me around.
Overall, it was good movie with amazing characters and performances, but I wasn't as emotionally invested like I was expecting to be.
All I can say about "The Wrestler" is that I'm torn about it. On one hand Rourke deserves all of the hype and praise for his performance. The same can be said about Tomei, but maybe to a lesser extent. It also was a slice of real life, but maybe it was a little too real.
On the other hand, I didn't quite agree with all of the plot points. For example, we see Randy "The Ram" trying to make amends with his estranged daughter, and he wins her back with this heart-wrenching speech just to let her down once again. I know this is supposed to be a gritty, character drama about a flawed man, but why did he have to be the stereotypical "deadbeat dad"? I even remember saying to myself, "Don't f-ck this up", and of course he did.
Then, he spends the rest of the movie trying to woo this stripper, and when she finally tells him that she's there for him in order to keep him from potentially killing himself in the ring, he just blows her off. Why should we care about this guy when he obviously doesn't care about anyone else? Yes, he's tragic, and yes he's at a crossroad, but he clearly goes down the wrong path. I was expecting more focus on his relationships, and maybe a bit more feel-goodiness.
Now, I don't think all movies should have happy endings, heck I usually love movies with down endings, but I was expecting to feel a little bit better than I did when I walked out of the theater. Also, the ending left me a little unsatisfied, which is a little odd since I usually like unconventional endings (like No Country for Old Men). I guess I just had a different movie in my head, and I felt that the trailer really jerked me around.
Overall, it was good movie with amazing characters and performances, but I wasn't as emotionally invested like I was expecting to be.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
My Knee-Jerk Oscar Thoughts
REVISED: 1/24/09
Best Picture
I'm glad that The Dark Knight was left out of the Best Picture race, but I was expecting the film to get nominated for directing. Ah well, I'm just glad that all of the fanboys have their panties in a bunch, but they shouldn't be surprised because TDK never had a shot.
My Predictions: 5/5
Best Director
Again, I was a little surprised that Nolan didn't get any love for TDK, and Stephen Daldry (The Reader) got the nod instead, but that's probably because I haven't seen The Reader yet. Maybe he did a better job.
My Predictions: 4/5
Best Leading Actor
I'm kicking myself because I took Richard Jenkins (The Visitor) out of my top 5, but I knew I was going to be wrong one way or the other when I picked Clint Eastwood (Gran Torino). I'm actually glad I was wrong because Jenkins was a part of a smaller film that was released really early in the year. I'm glad the Academy remembered him.
My Predictions: 4/5
Best Leading Actress
I was also a little surprised that Kate Winslet received only one nod for The Reader. I was expecting the double nomination, but I'll live. Usually, Best Actress is my weakest category when it comes to predictions, but I didn't do too badly this time around. I'm a little surprised that Sally Hawkins (Happy-Go-Lucky) didn't make it, but that's because there was a lot of buzz around that performance versus very little for Melissa Leo and Frozen River.
My Predictions: 3.5/5
Best Supporting Actor
I wasn't really surprised that Dev Patel didn't get a nomination for Slumdog Millionaire, and I haven't seen Revolutionary Road yet, so I can't comment on Michael Shannon's nom. Again, it really doesn't matter because Heath Ledger's going to win this one.
My Predictions: 4/5
Best Supporting Actress
Damn the Academy for only giving Winslet one nomination because they messed up my Supporting Actress picks. Had I known she was going to get a Leading Actress nom for The Reader, I would have totally put Henson (The Curious Case of Benjamin Button) in my top 5.
My Predictions: 4/5
Best Original Screenplay
My best category in the past became my weakest this year. To be honest, I wasn't expecting to do that well this time around. I'm glad In Bruges got some love.
My Predictions: 2/5
Best Adapted Screenplay
I did surprisingly well with my picks for Adapted Screenplay, but I was expecting more love for The Dark Knight. Again, I haven't seen The Reader, so I cannot comment on it's nod.
My Predictions: 4/5
Best Animated Feature
I'm kicking myself again because I had Bolt on my preliminary list, but was sure Waltz with Bashir was going to pull a Persepolis. In the end, I'm sure Bashir is happier with its Best Foreign Language nom over the less prestigious Animated one.
My Predictions: 2/3
Best Picture
I'm glad that The Dark Knight was left out of the Best Picture race, but I was expecting the film to get nominated for directing. Ah well, I'm just glad that all of the fanboys have their panties in a bunch, but they shouldn't be surprised because TDK never had a shot.
My Predictions: 5/5
Best Director
Again, I was a little surprised that Nolan didn't get any love for TDK, and Stephen Daldry (The Reader) got the nod instead, but that's probably because I haven't seen The Reader yet. Maybe he did a better job.
My Predictions: 4/5
Best Leading Actor
I'm kicking myself because I took Richard Jenkins (The Visitor) out of my top 5, but I knew I was going to be wrong one way or the other when I picked Clint Eastwood (Gran Torino). I'm actually glad I was wrong because Jenkins was a part of a smaller film that was released really early in the year. I'm glad the Academy remembered him.
My Predictions: 4/5
Best Leading Actress
I was also a little surprised that Kate Winslet received only one nod for The Reader. I was expecting the double nomination, but I'll live. Usually, Best Actress is my weakest category when it comes to predictions, but I didn't do too badly this time around. I'm a little surprised that Sally Hawkins (Happy-Go-Lucky) didn't make it, but that's because there was a lot of buzz around that performance versus very little for Melissa Leo and Frozen River.
My Predictions: 3.5/5
Best Supporting Actor
I wasn't really surprised that Dev Patel didn't get a nomination for Slumdog Millionaire, and I haven't seen Revolutionary Road yet, so I can't comment on Michael Shannon's nom. Again, it really doesn't matter because Heath Ledger's going to win this one.
My Predictions: 4/5
Best Supporting Actress
Damn the Academy for only giving Winslet one nomination because they messed up my Supporting Actress picks. Had I known she was going to get a Leading Actress nom for The Reader, I would have totally put Henson (The Curious Case of Benjamin Button) in my top 5.
My Predictions: 4/5
Best Original Screenplay
My best category in the past became my weakest this year. To be honest, I wasn't expecting to do that well this time around. I'm glad In Bruges got some love.
My Predictions: 2/5
Best Adapted Screenplay
I did surprisingly well with my picks for Adapted Screenplay, but I was expecting more love for The Dark Knight. Again, I haven't seen The Reader, so I cannot comment on it's nod.
My Predictions: 4/5
Best Animated Feature
I'm kicking myself again because I had Bolt on my preliminary list, but was sure Waltz with Bashir was going to pull a Persepolis. In the end, I'm sure Bashir is happier with its Best Foreign Language nom over the less prestigious Animated one.
My Predictions: 2/3
Overall, I didn't do to badly with my predictions this year, and I'm fairly happy with what the Academy nominated this time around. Sure, people are going to be all pissy because of The Dark Knight's "snubs", but I'm sure the geeks and nerds will live. For the record, I really liked TDK, but I never thought it was an Oscar contender.
I'm going to go out on a limb and predict that this is going to be Slumdog Millionaire's year, and while it may not sweep like it did at the Globes, it will probably be going home with Best Picture, and I'm OK with that.
My 2009 Oscar Predictions
Every year I feebly attempt to predict the Oscar nominations, and I do a decent job for the most part. With that being said, I'm not too confident with this years picks, mostly because I still haven't seen a lot of the buzz-worthy films compared to years past. But tradition is tradition, so here goes:
Best Picture
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Frost/Nixon
Milk
The Reader
Slumdog Millionaire *WINNER*
NOTES: It was really tough to put together the final five for this year's Best Picture. I went back and forth between having The Dark Knight on the list, but I couldn't make myself do it. I don't think TDK was one of the five best movies this year. The final battle was between The Reader and Doubt, and Holocaust movies tend to be preferred by the Academy. Then again, WALL-E could surprise us all and do what only Beauty and the Beast has done before, and I'd be on board with that.
Best Director
Danny Boyle, Slumdog Millionaire *WINNER*
David Fincher, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Ron Howard, Frost/Nixon
Christopher Nolan, The Dark Knight
Gus Van Sant, Milk
NOTES: I feel pretty good about this category. I could possibly see Nolan being snubbed in favor of Darren Aronofsky (The Wrestler), but I do feel that Knight will have some praise even if it doesn't get a Best Pic nod. Eastwood could also end up being a major player with Gran Torino, which I'd be OK with since Torino was way better than Million Dollar Baby in my opinion.
Best Actor in a Leading Role
Clint Eastwood, Gran Torino
Frank Langella, Frost/Nixon
Sean Penn, Milk
Brad Pitt, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Micky Rourke, The Wrestler *WINNER*
NOTES: I was really close to having Leonardo DiCaprio (Revolutionary Road) on my final five list, and then I switched him our for Richard Jenkins (The Visitor). I went back and forth, and finally took them both out for Clint Eastwood. The Academy loves Dirty Harry, and since this may be his final on-screen work they might honor him with a nom.
Best Actress in a Leading Role
Anne Hathaway, Rachel Getting Married
Sally Hawkins, Happy-Go-Lucky
Angelina Jolie, Changeling
Meryl Streep, Doubt
Kate Winslet, Revolutionary Road *WINNER*
NOTES: The Actress categories have always been my weakness, so I'm never expect to do well. I'm pretty sure Jolie, Streep, and Winslet are locks, so I'm hoping to go 3 out of 5 which isn't too bad.
Best Actor in a Supporting Role
Josh Brolin, Milk
Robert Downey, Jr., Tropic Thunder
Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Doubt
Heath Ledger, The Dark Knight *WINNER*
Dev Patel, Slumdog Millionaire
NOTES: I struggled to put Brolin in over Franco since they were both great in Milk, but I don't see both of them getting in. Personally, I'd like to see Franco get the nom, but Brolin's character was more tragic which may give him the edge. I also put Dev Patel in at the last minute because I think the world is in love with Slumdog, and he's been getting a lot of other nominations so he may sneak in. In the end it doesn't matter because Ledger is pretty much guaranteed to win.
Best Actress in a Supporting Role
Amy Adams, Doubt
Penelope Cruz, Vicky Christina Barcelona
Viola Davis, Doubt
Marisa Tomei, The Wrestler
Kate Winslet, The Reader *WINNER*
NOTES: I actually feel pretty confident with these picks. The only hiccup maybe Tomei being left out for Taraji P. Henson (The Curious Case of Benjamin Button).
Best Original Screenplay
Burn After Reading
Milk *WINNER*
The Visitor
WALL-E
The Wrestler
NOTES: This is usually my strongest category, but I'm not too confident this year mostly because there were a lot of good screenplays. I could see WALL-E being snubbed, but that wouldn't make sense to me since it was better than Ratatouille which got a nom in this category. There's not a clear cut favorite like last year's Juno, so it could be an interesting year for the writers.
Best Adapted Screenplay
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
The Dark Knight
Doubt
Frost/Nixon
Slumdog Millionaire *WINNER*
NOTES: I'm pretty confident with these five, but I could see Doubt being swapped out for The Reader or maybe Revolutionary Road (albeit less likely). Slumdog is the heavy favorite in this category.
Best Animated Feature
WALL-E *WINNER*
Waltz with Bashir
Kung-Fu Panda
NOTES: The Animated category is no longer just for kiddie fare thanks to last year's Persepolis getting the nod. I think Waltz with Bashir could do the same this year, but it's going to be hard to beat WALL-E.
So, there you have it. We'll see how well I did in a few hours. I can't wait!
Best Picture
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Frost/Nixon
Milk
The Reader
Slumdog Millionaire *WINNER*
NOTES: It was really tough to put together the final five for this year's Best Picture. I went back and forth between having The Dark Knight on the list, but I couldn't make myself do it. I don't think TDK was one of the five best movies this year. The final battle was between The Reader and Doubt, and Holocaust movies tend to be preferred by the Academy. Then again, WALL-E could surprise us all and do what only Beauty and the Beast has done before, and I'd be on board with that.
Best Director
Danny Boyle, Slumdog Millionaire *WINNER*
David Fincher, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Ron Howard, Frost/Nixon
Christopher Nolan, The Dark Knight
Gus Van Sant, Milk
NOTES: I feel pretty good about this category. I could possibly see Nolan being snubbed in favor of Darren Aronofsky (The Wrestler), but I do feel that Knight will have some praise even if it doesn't get a Best Pic nod. Eastwood could also end up being a major player with Gran Torino, which I'd be OK with since Torino was way better than Million Dollar Baby in my opinion.
Best Actor in a Leading Role
Clint Eastwood, Gran Torino
Frank Langella, Frost/Nixon
Sean Penn, Milk
Brad Pitt, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Micky Rourke, The Wrestler *WINNER*
NOTES: I was really close to having Leonardo DiCaprio (Revolutionary Road) on my final five list, and then I switched him our for Richard Jenkins (The Visitor). I went back and forth, and finally took them both out for Clint Eastwood. The Academy loves Dirty Harry, and since this may be his final on-screen work they might honor him with a nom.
Best Actress in a Leading Role
Anne Hathaway, Rachel Getting Married
Sally Hawkins, Happy-Go-Lucky
Angelina Jolie, Changeling
Meryl Streep, Doubt
Kate Winslet, Revolutionary Road *WINNER*
NOTES: The Actress categories have always been my weakness, so I'm never expect to do well. I'm pretty sure Jolie, Streep, and Winslet are locks, so I'm hoping to go 3 out of 5 which isn't too bad.
Best Actor in a Supporting Role
Josh Brolin, Milk
Robert Downey, Jr., Tropic Thunder
Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Doubt
Heath Ledger, The Dark Knight *WINNER*
Dev Patel, Slumdog Millionaire
NOTES: I struggled to put Brolin in over Franco since they were both great in Milk, but I don't see both of them getting in. Personally, I'd like to see Franco get the nom, but Brolin's character was more tragic which may give him the edge. I also put Dev Patel in at the last minute because I think the world is in love with Slumdog, and he's been getting a lot of other nominations so he may sneak in. In the end it doesn't matter because Ledger is pretty much guaranteed to win.
Best Actress in a Supporting Role
Amy Adams, Doubt
Penelope Cruz, Vicky Christina Barcelona
Viola Davis, Doubt
Marisa Tomei, The Wrestler
Kate Winslet, The Reader *WINNER*
NOTES: I actually feel pretty confident with these picks. The only hiccup maybe Tomei being left out for Taraji P. Henson (The Curious Case of Benjamin Button).
Best Original Screenplay
Burn After Reading
Milk *WINNER*
The Visitor
WALL-E
The Wrestler
NOTES: This is usually my strongest category, but I'm not too confident this year mostly because there were a lot of good screenplays. I could see WALL-E being snubbed, but that wouldn't make sense to me since it was better than Ratatouille which got a nom in this category. There's not a clear cut favorite like last year's Juno, so it could be an interesting year for the writers.
Best Adapted Screenplay
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
The Dark Knight
Doubt
Frost/Nixon
Slumdog Millionaire *WINNER*
NOTES: I'm pretty confident with these five, but I could see Doubt being swapped out for The Reader or maybe Revolutionary Road (albeit less likely). Slumdog is the heavy favorite in this category.
Best Animated Feature
WALL-E *WINNER*
Waltz with Bashir
Kung-Fu Panda
NOTES: The Animated category is no longer just for kiddie fare thanks to last year's Persepolis getting the nod. I think Waltz with Bashir could do the same this year, but it's going to be hard to beat WALL-E.
So, there you have it. We'll see how well I did in a few hours. I can't wait!
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
My Lack of Motivation
I should be reading for my Thursday night class, but I just don't have to juice to do it. Rather than being productive, I'd prefer to putz around on the Internet or watch the Obamas dance at one of the thousand balls they have tonight. I didn't know senioritis existed for graduate students, but apparently it does.
Monday, January 19, 2009
My Oscar Predictions...
...are coming soon. I'm planning on a Oscar Buzz Movie Marathon later today, so hopefully I'll have a better idea of which films are going to get the nod.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
My Hopelessly Romantic Side
I was convinced after season 4 that JD and Elliot were done for good and I was OK with that, but after last season I warmed up to the idea of them getting back together. Needless to say, last night's second episode was a good one in my book.
I know there are a lot of people who are against JD & Elliot Part IV, but to be honest they've never had the chance to be a couple. I think the show did a good job at letting them put everything on the table so they could avoid making the same mistakes. Plus, the way they quietly got back together while they were walking by themselves was picture perfect. Maybe, just maybe, this time is for real.
If it's not then I might have to stop watching the show because I can't take another "on again off again" situation. You have them together, so keep them together for goodness sake!
I know there are a lot of people who are against JD & Elliot Part IV, but to be honest they've never had the chance to be a couple. I think the show did a good job at letting them put everything on the table so they could avoid making the same mistakes. Plus, the way they quietly got back together while they were walking by themselves was picture perfect. Maybe, just maybe, this time is for real.
If it's not then I might have to stop watching the show because I can't take another "on again off again" situation. You have them together, so keep them together for goodness sake!
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
My Tasty Treat
This clip from last night's episode ("My Last Words") is just classic Scrubs.
Both eps last night were pretty good, not as great as some of the show's earlier works, but way better than what we've been getting the last few seasons.
It's great to have this show back on the air. Thanks ABC!
Both eps last night were pretty good, not as great as some of the show's earlier works, but way better than what we've been getting the last few seasons.
It's great to have this show back on the air. Thanks ABC!
Monday, January 5, 2009
My Favorite 'Scrubs' Episodes: Season by Season
Happy Scrubs Season Premiere Eve! To say that I'm excited for tomorrow night's premiere would be an understatement. After a strike shortened season 7, and hearing that Pushing Daisies is on its way out, the ABC debut of Scrubs is just what the doctor ordered. To celebrate the return of my all-time favorite show, I've decided to run down the episodes that stood out to me season by season.
Season 1: "My Old Lady"
The whole crew learn their share about death when JD takes care of an old woman ready to die, Elliot and Carla watch over a woman who can't speak English, and Turk becomes too close with a patient (summary by IMDB).
This episode really captured the tone of the show because it was the perfect combination of laughter and emotion. You watch J.D., Elliot, and Turk handle losing their patients, but you also see them grow as doctors. If you had to pick one episode that sums up Scrubs this has to be it.
Season 2: "My Philosophy"
J.D. discusses the philosophy of death with a transplant patient. Elliot feels that having a unisex locker room at the hospital is unfair. Meanwhile, Turk proposes to Carla just before she leaves for 5 days to take care of her grieving mother, leaving him to ponder over what her answer will be (summary by IMDB).
Again, this episode toes the line between goofy comedy and heart wrenching drama. We also see how creative this show can be when they have part of the cast be a part of a musical number. This was a bold move that could have hurt the episode, but it was pulled off brilliantly.
Season 3: "My Screw Up"
It's Jack's first birthday, so Jordan's siblings Dani and Ben are in town. Dr. Cox tells JD to leave a patient for 1/2 an hour and check-up on Ben's leukemia, but when a patient dies, Dr. Cox blames JD, and takes over his patients. Carla and Turk argue about Turk getting rid of his mole and Carla taking Turk's last name. The main theme is acceptance (summary by IMDB).
The brilliance of this show is once again displayed through this episode, which is a testament to the strong writing and story telling. This episode also has a twist ending that totally floored me, and made this installment even more powerful.
Season 4: "My Cake"
J.D.'s brother Dan comes back to tell J.D. their father died (summary by IMDB).
I tend to like any episode with Tom Cavanagh, who plays J.D.'s brother, because he has good chemistry with Zach Braff. I believe them as brothers. This is also one of my favorite episodes because we finally get to see that Dr. Cox really does care about J.D.
Season 5: "My Way Home"
100th episode. As a tribute to "The Wizard of Oz", the four companions go on a similar journey. Turk needs a heart from a patient in order to be the first resident to assist performing an in-house heart transplant. Carla needs courage to have a child with Turk even though she can't stand babies, Elliot needs the brains to handle speaking in a medical seminar, and J.D, well, he just wants to get home...(summary by IMDB).
I'm also a sucker for the Braff directed eps. Sure, I'm biased, but I don't care. This episode my not be the most original, but it's just fun to watch because it's look and style is so over the top, but it works as an homage to The Wizard of Oz.
Season 6: "My Musical"
A patient (Tony award nominee Stephanie D'Abruzzo) hears singing from everyone, turning Sacred Heart into a musical extravaganza. Meanwhile, Elliot determines whether or not J.D. should move in with her, and Carla determines whether or not to go back to work (summary by IMDB).
The reason I liked this episode is very similar to why I liked "My Way Home". It's just fun to watch. A musical episode cannot be pulled off by just any show, but Scrubs was able to make it work.
Season 7: "My Princess"
Dr. Cox tells his son the story about a typical day at Sacred Heart in the form of a bedtime fairy tale (summary by IMDB).
For some reason, this episode fell flat with a lot of viewers, but I thought it was one of the few highlights of a lackluster season 7. Personally, I blame NBC because they showed it out of order, thus throwing some viewers off. As an episode, it may not be the most original to date, but it was a nice little change of pace, and I enjoyed watching it. Sure, it wasn't perfect but it was better than most, if not all, of the rest of season 7.
Seven seasons down, and one more to go. I can't wait!
Season 1: "My Old Lady"
The whole crew learn their share about death when JD takes care of an old woman ready to die, Elliot and Carla watch over a woman who can't speak English, and Turk becomes too close with a patient (summary by IMDB).
This episode really captured the tone of the show because it was the perfect combination of laughter and emotion. You watch J.D., Elliot, and Turk handle losing their patients, but you also see them grow as doctors. If you had to pick one episode that sums up Scrubs this has to be it.
Season 2: "My Philosophy"
J.D. discusses the philosophy of death with a transplant patient. Elliot feels that having a unisex locker room at the hospital is unfair. Meanwhile, Turk proposes to Carla just before she leaves for 5 days to take care of her grieving mother, leaving him to ponder over what her answer will be (summary by IMDB).
Again, this episode toes the line between goofy comedy and heart wrenching drama. We also see how creative this show can be when they have part of the cast be a part of a musical number. This was a bold move that could have hurt the episode, but it was pulled off brilliantly.
Season 3: "My Screw Up"
It's Jack's first birthday, so Jordan's siblings Dani and Ben are in town. Dr. Cox tells JD to leave a patient for 1/2 an hour and check-up on Ben's leukemia, but when a patient dies, Dr. Cox blames JD, and takes over his patients. Carla and Turk argue about Turk getting rid of his mole and Carla taking Turk's last name. The main theme is acceptance (summary by IMDB).
The brilliance of this show is once again displayed through this episode, which is a testament to the strong writing and story telling. This episode also has a twist ending that totally floored me, and made this installment even more powerful.
Season 4: "My Cake"
J.D.'s brother Dan comes back to tell J.D. their father died (summary by IMDB).
I tend to like any episode with Tom Cavanagh, who plays J.D.'s brother, because he has good chemistry with Zach Braff. I believe them as brothers. This is also one of my favorite episodes because we finally get to see that Dr. Cox really does care about J.D.
Season 5: "My Way Home"
100th episode. As a tribute to "The Wizard of Oz", the four companions go on a similar journey. Turk needs a heart from a patient in order to be the first resident to assist performing an in-house heart transplant. Carla needs courage to have a child with Turk even though she can't stand babies, Elliot needs the brains to handle speaking in a medical seminar, and J.D, well, he just wants to get home...(summary by IMDB).
I'm also a sucker for the Braff directed eps. Sure, I'm biased, but I don't care. This episode my not be the most original, but it's just fun to watch because it's look and style is so over the top, but it works as an homage to The Wizard of Oz.
Season 6: "My Musical"
A patient (Tony award nominee Stephanie D'Abruzzo) hears singing from everyone, turning Sacred Heart into a musical extravaganza. Meanwhile, Elliot determines whether or not J.D. should move in with her, and Carla determines whether or not to go back to work (summary by IMDB).
The reason I liked this episode is very similar to why I liked "My Way Home". It's just fun to watch. A musical episode cannot be pulled off by just any show, but Scrubs was able to make it work.
Season 7: "My Princess"
Dr. Cox tells his son the story about a typical day at Sacred Heart in the form of a bedtime fairy tale (summary by IMDB).
For some reason, this episode fell flat with a lot of viewers, but I thought it was one of the few highlights of a lackluster season 7. Personally, I blame NBC because they showed it out of order, thus throwing some viewers off. As an episode, it may not be the most original to date, but it was a nice little change of pace, and I enjoyed watching it. Sure, it wasn't perfect but it was better than most, if not all, of the rest of season 7.
Seven seasons down, and one more to go. I can't wait!
Sunday, January 4, 2009
My Top 5 Places I'd Like to Move To
REVISED: 1/12/09
Now, I know that a lot of my future is out of my hands, but I can't help but think about the places I'd like to move to next. Sure, this may be a waste of time, but it doesn't hurt to wonder about a life that may never exist, right?
1. San Diego, CA
The only thing I like more than snow is the sun and the beach. From what I've seen San Diego offers both. I've read that San Diego has over 260 days of sunshine a year, but I'm sure it has its share of rainy weather, but it's probably not as bad as it is up here in Oregon.
Also, I have the feeling that San Diego has a more diverse population. I miss seeing minorities. Also, there are two schools that I've been keeping my eye on for a few years now, San Diego State and the University of San Diego. Two very different schools, but I have experience with both types of institutions, so I'm hoping that works in my favor.
2. Boulder, CO
The one thing I learned this Christmas season is I like the snow. Arctic Blast 08 covered Portland in snow, and shut down the city for a few days. For some reason, a lot of people hated being subjected to these conditions, but I couldn't help but love every minute of it. Sure, it sucked being stuck inside but all I had to do is look outside to watch the snowfall and I was happy again. Maybe it's because snow is so foreign to me.
From what I've read online, Boulder offers the best of both worlds. The city boasts that it has more than 300 sunny or mostly sunny days a year (a huge plus to someone who is tired of the dreary grayness of Portland), and mild winters with some substantial snowfall. You can't beat that. Plus, the University of Colorado is located in Boulder, so hopefully job opportunities will exist for me in the mountains.
3. Austin, TX
Spending time in Houston over the break convinced me that if I move back to Texas the only place for me is Austin, which is kind of funny since I used to hate Austin when I lived in San Antonio. The main reason Austin is appealing to me is because it's not as big as Houston or Dallas. Just being in a small part of Houston reminded me how big it was, and how I feel more at home in mid-sized cities. I also think I'd like the vibe of Austin since it's similar to that of Portland. Plus, Austin is still close enough to San Antonio and Houston so I can visit family when I feel like it.
The only drawback to Austin is the limited job prospects. Sure, there's UT, but my hatred for that school might be too deep. The only other real option is St. Edwards University, which could work out since it's a Holy Cross institution like the University of Portland.
4. Honolulu, HI
For the last couple of years now I've been feeling this force pulling me towards the Hawaiian islands, and I'm tempted to give in. This longing to move to Hawaii started a few years ago when we went for my grandmother's funeral. It was a sad time, but I remember feeling so at home there. It just felt like I belonged there. Probably because I've always felt like I fit in more with my mom's side of the family than my dad's.
Honolulu is the largest city in Hawaii, so I would have the semi-big city atmosphere that I like, and it's home to the University of Hawaii, Chaminade University, and Hawaii Pacific University, so there's the potential for work there as well. The main negative about Honolulu is the fact that Hawaii is so far away from the mainland. I'm afraid I'd get island fever sooner than later.
5. Portland, OR
Contrary to what people might think, I like living in Portland...it's the weather that I can't stand. The city itself is great, vibrant, diverse in terms of lifestyles and viewpoints (not so much ethnically), and it's just a cool place to be. Plus, the summers are amazing. Also, I have some small roots here in Portland. Slowly this city started becoming home, albeit a gray, rainy home.
As for work, there are tons of schools in the Portland area to work for. The trickiest part is finding a school that is the right fit. The thing is, I like to be challenged and I like change, and sticking around Portland might not fulfill those needs.
Honorable Mentions (in no particular order): Denver, CO; Buffalo, NY; Boston, MA; Salt Lake City, UT; Nashville, TN; San Francisco, CA; Seattle, WA
These are the five cities I'd like to live in if I had the opportunity, but in all honesty I'm willing to live anywhere just as long as I can find a good job. These would be ideal, but I'm not picky...well, not THAT picky.
Now, I know that a lot of my future is out of my hands, but I can't help but think about the places I'd like to move to next. Sure, this may be a waste of time, but it doesn't hurt to wonder about a life that may never exist, right?
1. San Diego, CA
The only thing I like more than snow is the sun and the beach. From what I've seen San Diego offers both. I've read that San Diego has over 260 days of sunshine a year, but I'm sure it has its share of rainy weather, but it's probably not as bad as it is up here in Oregon.
Also, I have the feeling that San Diego has a more diverse population. I miss seeing minorities. Also, there are two schools that I've been keeping my eye on for a few years now, San Diego State and the University of San Diego. Two very different schools, but I have experience with both types of institutions, so I'm hoping that works in my favor.
2. Boulder, CO
The one thing I learned this Christmas season is I like the snow. Arctic Blast 08 covered Portland in snow, and shut down the city for a few days. For some reason, a lot of people hated being subjected to these conditions, but I couldn't help but love every minute of it. Sure, it sucked being stuck inside but all I had to do is look outside to watch the snowfall and I was happy again. Maybe it's because snow is so foreign to me.
From what I've read online, Boulder offers the best of both worlds. The city boasts that it has more than 300 sunny or mostly sunny days a year (a huge plus to someone who is tired of the dreary grayness of Portland), and mild winters with some substantial snowfall. You can't beat that. Plus, the University of Colorado is located in Boulder, so hopefully job opportunities will exist for me in the mountains.
3. Austin, TX
Spending time in Houston over the break convinced me that if I move back to Texas the only place for me is Austin, which is kind of funny since I used to hate Austin when I lived in San Antonio. The main reason Austin is appealing to me is because it's not as big as Houston or Dallas. Just being in a small part of Houston reminded me how big it was, and how I feel more at home in mid-sized cities. I also think I'd like the vibe of Austin since it's similar to that of Portland. Plus, Austin is still close enough to San Antonio and Houston so I can visit family when I feel like it.
The only drawback to Austin is the limited job prospects. Sure, there's UT, but my hatred for that school might be too deep. The only other real option is St. Edwards University, which could work out since it's a Holy Cross institution like the University of Portland.
4. Honolulu, HI
For the last couple of years now I've been feeling this force pulling me towards the Hawaiian islands, and I'm tempted to give in. This longing to move to Hawaii started a few years ago when we went for my grandmother's funeral. It was a sad time, but I remember feeling so at home there. It just felt like I belonged there. Probably because I've always felt like I fit in more with my mom's side of the family than my dad's.
Honolulu is the largest city in Hawaii, so I would have the semi-big city atmosphere that I like, and it's home to the University of Hawaii, Chaminade University, and Hawaii Pacific University, so there's the potential for work there as well. The main negative about Honolulu is the fact that Hawaii is so far away from the mainland. I'm afraid I'd get island fever sooner than later.
5. Portland, OR
Contrary to what people might think, I like living in Portland...it's the weather that I can't stand. The city itself is great, vibrant, diverse in terms of lifestyles and viewpoints (not so much ethnically), and it's just a cool place to be. Plus, the summers are amazing. Also, I have some small roots here in Portland. Slowly this city started becoming home, albeit a gray, rainy home.
As for work, there are tons of schools in the Portland area to work for. The trickiest part is finding a school that is the right fit. The thing is, I like to be challenged and I like change, and sticking around Portland might not fulfill those needs.
Honorable Mentions (in no particular order): Denver, CO; Buffalo, NY; Boston, MA; Salt Lake City, UT; Nashville, TN; San Francisco, CA; Seattle, WA
These are the five cities I'd like to live in if I had the opportunity, but in all honesty I'm willing to live anywhere just as long as I can find a good job. These would be ideal, but I'm not picky...well, not THAT picky.
Saturday, January 3, 2009
My Giddiness Knows No Bounds
We have webisodes! NBC never had webisodes for Scrubs. ABC has already given this show more love than NBC ever did, and it hasn't even debuted yet.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
My Resolution
I've never really been a New Year's Resolution kind of guy. They've just seemed a little silly. Despite my feelings, I have attempted to make and keep some goals the last couple of years, and I've done OK for the most part.
I've decided to make another resolution for 2009, which is to give myself a break, stop worrying about the future, and to enjoy the rest of the time I have here in Portland. It sounds easy, but it's trickier than it may seem.
The majority of the last couple of months have been filled with anxiety due to not knowing what I'm going to be doing or where I'm going to be living once I'm done with school. I know that I have very little control over these matters, and I should just let things unfold, but that can be scary.
Also, I've been living my life with one foot in Portland and the other out the door, which has held me back when it comes to putting myself out there to establish new relationships. Part of me feels that there's no point because more than likely I won't be sticking around. The other part of me is frustrated because I'm closing myself off to so many great memories.
So, I guess my ultimate goal for 2009 is to just live...
I've decided to make another resolution for 2009, which is to give myself a break, stop worrying about the future, and to enjoy the rest of the time I have here in Portland. It sounds easy, but it's trickier than it may seem.
The majority of the last couple of months have been filled with anxiety due to not knowing what I'm going to be doing or where I'm going to be living once I'm done with school. I know that I have very little control over these matters, and I should just let things unfold, but that can be scary.
Also, I've been living my life with one foot in Portland and the other out the door, which has held me back when it comes to putting myself out there to establish new relationships. Part of me feels that there's no point because more than likely I won't be sticking around. The other part of me is frustrated because I'm closing myself off to so many great memories.
So, I guess my ultimate goal for 2009 is to just live...
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