Think I'm Done!

A while back, I started watching the reruns of AMC on Soapnet.  As always, it didn't take me long to get hooked again.  After a very short period though, I remembered why I didn't care for it during this particular stretch.  Simply put, the show was extremely dark.  The only real brightspot, Jeffrey Carlson as Zoe, left a couple of weeks ago.  Kidnapping, baby selling schemes, adultery, serial killers, abandonment issues, miscarriages.  No joy at all.  It's just too much.  I'm all about the drama, but when several of these issues are front and center at the same time, I have to tap.

Quote Of The Moment...

"Did Judas Iscariot have God on his side?"

-Bob Dylan

Quote Of The Moment...

"No matter what the ending, my life began with you."

-No Matter What-Boyzone

Cat...

Cheated?

It was revealed at the end of the episode yesterday that Robin is alive.  Honestly, even though I kind of new it was coming, I'm not happy.  For me, all the power and emotion of her death, funeral, and the repercussions is pointless now.  How am I supposed to care?  The next time Kimberly needs money, Robin will resurface.  The more I write, the more upset I become.  I get that this is Ron and Frank trying to rectify a hideous mistake by the previous regime, but maybe well enough should have been left alone.

Awesome!

Once In A Lifetime?

When this match was announced a year ago, I was very upset.  We all know my Cena hate is pretty much legendary by now, but I was more pissed that The Rock was going to be in the main event of the biggest show on the wrestling calendar.  How could a guy who hasn't wrestled in eight years just be handed the top spot on the card?  Two wrestlers I despise headlining Wrestlemania?  Needless to say, my hopes weren't high.

Time to admit something.  I was wrong.  Though the buildup didn't start out strong, it's definitely picking up steam as we approach final hour.  Here's something I never thought I'd say.  I'm actually all about Cena on this one.  Throughout the entire feud, John has gone out of the way to make the heat between he and Rock seem legitimate.  Every point made is truthful.  Some of my favorites:

The only reason The Rock is back is because of the huge payday he's getting.
The Rock used WWE as a stepping stone to Hollywood, and disregarded it upon arrival.
Though he constantly professes an undying love for wrestling, he disappears for years at a time.
The only time The Rock returns is to promote a project outside of wrestling.

Funnily enough, these are things I've been screaming for years!  Anyway, you'd think "the most electrifying man in sports-entertainment" would be seething with anger in the face of these honesty shots, right?  How does the anger manifest itself?  Chair shots to the head?  Sneak attacks with foreign objects?  Interfering in Cena's matches, costing him victory?  All great ways to exact revenge, but no.  If you guessed picking on the way John dresses, or singing unflattering songs about his mother, you're right on the money.  No, seriously.  You don't have to get your eyes checked.  You read that correctly.  The Rock has no legitimate beef with Cena.

Everytime the two are in a confrontation, Cena leaves Rocky looking incompetent, and unfit to grace a wrestling ring.  WWE is promoting this match as once in a lifetime.  Though there are rumors of The Rock sticking around after Wrestlemania, I hope John beats him so bad that he retreats to the safety of Hollywood, never to be seen again.  Can you smell that, Rock?  It should be a familiar scent.  Can you place it?  Okay, okay.  I'll tell you.  It's the smell of mediocrity and defeat.  Get used to it now, so it doesn't knock you on your ass April 1st.  Cena will be doing enough of that.

As we close, I'd like to make one thing perfectly clear.  I'm no fan of John Cena.  In this case, he's just the lesser of two evils.  When April 2nd dawns, my disdain for him will reemerge full force.

Quote Of The Moment...

"I'm inclined to think half mankind thinks the other half is blind.  Wouldn't be surprised to find they're all in cahoots."

-Facade-Jekyll And Hyde

Quote Of The Moment...

"Everyday, people in their own sweet way, like to add a coat of paint, and be what they ain't."

-Facade-Jekyll And Hyde

Quote Of The Moment...

"Is it easier for you to say you never loved me, anyway.? Or, do you hide me in your attic trunk, like a stowaway?"

-Do The Walls Come Down?-Carly Simon

Love Never Dies: 2010 Original Concept Album

In doing my research regarding the genesis of Love Never dies, I've learned that Andrew Lloyd Webber has attempted to get the project off the ground several times.  Can you imagine the pressure of writing a sequel to the most successful show in the history of musical theatre?  Must have been unbearable.  So, did it live up to the insane expectations?  Not for me.

Beginning with good, the orchestrations are beautiful.  Though the music is overly repetitive at times, I didn't mind because it's entrancing.  Stunningly unique score that fits the show perfectly.  Continuing, the cast is top-shelf.  My love for Ramin and Sierra is well-documented, but everyone more than pulls their weight.  Last bit of good, though along the lines of the previous statement, the acting is wonderful.  This may seem obvious to some, but occasionally, with a cast recording, it's difficult to emotionally invest in the story.  The lack of visuals and environment hinders.  Not an issue in this instance.  Every beat of story shows through.

Speaking of story, it's certainly the biggest problem.  One would think, with the meticulous care taken in other areas, that the most important element would be brilliantly crafted.  While I won't ruin it for you, I knew how everything was going to play out within the first fifteen minutes.  On top of the ridiculous level of predictability, there are holes in the story big enough to drive a truck of inconsistencies through.  While there are certainly a few sparks of genius, most of the story greatly detracts from any real enjoyment of the piece.

Very Stylish!

Quote Of The Moment...

"You can't legislate humanity."

-Oprah Winfrey

Creepy!

While in New York last weekend, Tim went to an autograph signing featuring wrestlers from the past and present.  He picked me up this awesome skull signed by Papa Shango!  Kind of scary!  I love it!  Thanks, buddy!

VIVA EVITA!

In its first week of performances, the Broadway revival of Evita has grossed over $1 Million in ticket sales!  This is incredible!  If any indication, a long, successful run looks a sure bet!

So True!

Phantom Of The Opera: 2011 25th Anniversary Cast

Full disclosure, I'm not the biggest fan of The Phantom.  Having said that, I respect any musical with this kind of longevity.  For that reason, I decided to give the live recording of the 25th anniversary concert a listen.  From the outset, I could sense a difference.  Wasn't able to put my finger on it until The Phantom's first entrance.  Ramin Karimloo brings a power, sensuality, and presence to the role that I'd never experienced with previous performers.  With the slightest inflections, he lends depth and believability to a character in desperate need of those attributes.  It's been a long time since I've heard a voice as beautiful as Mr. Karimloo's.

Not to be outdone by her leading man, Sierra Bogges is a gritty, raw, and real Christine.  That's big praise from me, considering I think that she's one of the worst characters in the history of musical theatre.  On her strengths of voice and acting ability, Sierra makes every turbulent high and low Christine experiences authentic.

The rest of the cast fit their roles well, and support the weak story as best they can.  While I don't think I'll ever count The Phantom Of The Opera among my favorite musicals, this production goes a long way in showing me why it is a worldwide phenomenon.  A fitting tribute for a milestone anniversary.

Someone's In The Kitchen...

Jill made Lace Cookies last night.  Very yummy!

Ramin!

This is Ramin Karimloo!  I recently discovered him while watching the 25th Anniversary Celebration of The Phantom Of The Opera, in which he plays the title role.  I'm not a huge fan of male singers, but his voice is PERFECT!  Any words or phrases I use to describe it won't do justice!  Can't get enough!  Quickly becoming an obsession!  Do yourself a favor.  Listen and be AWED!

Damn!

So, apparently, the news about Kin Shriner returning to GH as Scott Baldwin isn't true.  Daytime Confidential just posted an article that clears the air regarding a rash of rumors.  I'm very disappointed.  Was looking forward to seeing Scotty cause some trouble.  Who knows, maybe somewhere down the line, he'll pop up.

Comfy!

Sleeping Beauty!

Quote Of The Moment...

"No one gets out of life alive."

-Nigel McGuinness

Contract!

Roger Haworth has signed a contract, and is staying with General Hospital.  I can't tell you how happy and excited this makes me.  Can't wait to get swept up in the war between Todd and Sonny!  Who knows, maybe Roger will teach Maurice how to act.  Hopefully, some technique and skill will rub off.

Beauty!

This is Beauty.  She's an adorable Blue-Nose Pitbull puppy.  Got to spend a couple hours playing with her this afternoon.  Such fun!  I'm hoping she becomes a regular visitor!

Quote Of The Moment...

"Life is a dream we are dreaming."

-Then You Look At Me-Celine Dion

Great Scott!

Kin Shriner is bringing Scott Baldwin home to Port Charles!  No specifics available yet, but I'm extremely excited.  Wonder how Luke is going to react?

Hilarious, And True!

Tracie made this for me.  Absolutely hysterical!  Think I'm going to have it made into a t-shirt!

A Grouch?

This is Oscar.  He's legit one of the sweetest dogs in the world.  Personally, I don't care much for bulldogs at all, but I love him.

Quote Of The Moment...

"I read The Bible like I eat fish.  I take the meat that serves me well, but I don't choke on the bone."

-Kristen Chenoweth

Dinosaur Dog?

This is my cousin Jill's bulldog, Mika.  I don't know why, but for some reason, she looks like a dinosaur in this picture.  Totally cute, but definitely dinosaur-esque.

Awesome!

I love my Amazon Visa!  Have been wanting to buy the Original London Cast recording of Miss Saigon for a long time, but haven't come across a used one cheap enough.  Looked on Amazon just now, and there was one for $1.57!  Really?  A double CD at that price?  How could I pass it up?!  As I'm going through the checkout process, I see an option I had never before.  Apparently, when you accrue a certain number of points on your card, they can be used as money.  Turns out, I had $10 in points!  Miss Saigon only totalling $4, I used my points and got it for free!  Always good when you get something for nothing!  Love it!

Quote Of The Moment...

"The most purring of cats can still kill a bird within half a purr."

-Sister Doctor-Son Of A Witch