"Harry Potter" Final Book Set For 2006!

‘’Harry Potter’’ Final Book Set for 2006!’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright December 28, 2005

Zap2it.com reports that ‘’Harry Potter’’ wizardress and author, J.K. Rowling, has announced on her official website, that 2006 will be the year that she pens the seventh, last installment and finale to the beloved ‘’Harry Potter’’ novels and characters.

Rowling has set up graphics and music on her website in keeping with the holiday season. Upon clicking on a gift wrapped Christmas package, there is news from Rowling herself that, ‘’2006 will be the year I write the final book in the Harry Potter series….I have been fine-tuning the fine-tuned plan of seven during the past few weeks, so that I can really set to work in January.’’

Rowling, obviously sees both the ending to a beloved chapter in her own career and life, but the promise of new creative endeavors in store for her as well, going on to say, ‘’I contemplate the task with mixed feelings of excitement and dread, because I can’t wait to get started to tell the final part of the story. And, at last, to answer all the questions, (will I ever answer all of the questions? Let’s aim for most of the questions); and yet it will be over at last and I can’t quite imagine life without Harry.’’

Rowling is remaining quite secretive about any details of the forthcoming conclusion to the saga of ‘’Harry Potter’’ with the exception of noting that the word scar, in reference to the very scar Harry received at the hands of Lord Voldemort will be a part of the finale and that the book will not be titled ‘’Harry Potter And The Pyramids Of Furmat’’.

We advise ‘’Harry Potter’’ fans far and wide to stay tuned to Rowling’s website, for only from the official pen of the scribe herself, will we learn the final destiny that lies in store for Harry and his friends. But you can rest assure, that Rowling will leave her loyal fans equal parts thrilled and satisfied with what is at last on the horizon for her infamous child prodigy wizard.

Also rest assure that Rowling, like the characters that she has created that are so loved worldwide, who we have faithfully watched and adored as they matured and evolved, will also pursue new and thoroughly innovative, enchanting creative adventures.

We look forward to it J.K.!

Source:
http://www.zap2it.com/movies/news/story/0,1259,---27524,00.html

Muse News And Micro Muse December 28, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright December 28, 2005

"Star Wars' Sith", "Narnia", "Harry Potter" Top Contenders For Special Effects Oscar!

‘’’’Star Wars’ Sith’’, ‘’Narnia’’, ‘’Harry Potter’’ Top Contenders For Special Effects Oscar!’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright December 19, 2005

This year’s Academy Award race for Best Visual (Special) Effects is tighter, juicier, and better than ever with a wealth of super galactic contenders all vying for the coveted Oscar. This category, while usually featuring only a slimmer two or so films each year that even qualify for being nominated for such an honor, is this year, overrun with so many, it will be hard for the Academy Of Motion Picture Arts And Sciences to even choose the films to make the last cut for nominations, much less the final, victorious winner.

Zap2it.com reports that the seven films who are indeed nominated in the first running for Best Visual Effects as of Friday, December 16, 2005, are:

‘’Star Wars Episode 3: Revenge Of the Sith’’, ‘’The Chronicles Of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch, And The Wardrobe’’, ‘’Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire’’, ‘King Kong’’, ‘’Charlie And The Chocolate Factory’’, ‘’Batman Begins’’, and ‘’War Of The Worlds’’.

As it is, the Academy had quite a tough decision just selecting these seven, as several special effect filled film favorites of this year, unfortunately had to be left out. Those not in the first seven that fans and critics will weep over, (us included!) include our personal favorite, the positively dazzling ‘’Sin City’’, the equally explosive and dynamic ‘’Fantastic Four’’, as well as ‘’Aeon Flux’’, ‘’Zathura’’, and ‘’Stealth’’.

On January 25, 2006, the Academy’s Visual Effects Award Nominating Committee will have the even considerably more daunting task of cutting even the, thus far, seven nominated films, down to the final three nominees. Oh, to be a fly in THAT room!

When The Academy Of Motion Picture Arts And Sciences reveals the entire list of film categories and nominees for 2005 at 6:00 am PST, 9:00 am EST on Tuesday, January 31, 2006, we will know who the Academy deems the three nominated films for Best Visual Effects for 2005.

And of course, THE winner will be chosen, at the Academy Awards ceremony, to be held on March 5, 2006 and televised live, on the ABC Television Network.

While we love the first seven nominees, decisions, decisions, as we ponder and tap our forehead. We still, hands down, choose as the film we would love to see as this year’s winner of Best Special Effects, the epic, 8th wonder of the world (NO not ‘’King Kong’’, even if we are coining a line in the original version of the film. Sorry, Peter Jackson, we love you. But it’s just, so not ‘’Lord Of The Rings’’ and the recycled ‘’Kong’’ can’t even touch the original, though kudos for the thought!).

Why what else, George Lucas’s ‘’Star Wars Episode Three: Revenge Of The Sith’’ which couldn’t have been more eye popping, mind boggling, stunning, amazing, incredible, spectacular, a feast for the eyes…oh you get the picture!

We invite YOUR comments here as to what motion picture from the first seven nominated films YOU think should win the Best Visual Effects Oscar!

Source:
http://www.zap2it.com/movies/news/story/0,1259,---27472,00.html

Muse News And Micro Muse December 19, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright December 19, 2005

"The O.C." Wishes Everyone A Happy, Merry Chrismukkah!

‘’’’The O.C.’’ Wishes Everyone A Happy, Merry Chrismukkah!’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright December 17, 2005

Ah yes. Christmas and Hanukkah! It’s that wonderful time of year. And what better way to celebrate this duel holiday season that is upon us than with the Cohen, Cooper-Nichol, and Roberts families on the Fox Television Network’s own ‘’The O.C.’’ (our FAVORITE show!) and with our favorite holiday celebrating and combining the wondrous joys of both Christmas and Hanukkah….the mighty Chrismukkah!

For those needing a refresher course as to what in daylights Chrismukkah is, in ‘’The O.C.’s’’ first season, Seth Cohen, the sarcastic quipping, comic book and science fiction enthusiast son of Jewish, Sandy Cohen (the world’s coolest Dad; he surfs, he’s an Attorney for the poor and downtrodden in the Public Defender’s office taking on cases pro bono, he eats bagels with a ‘’schmear’’ of cream cheese), and Gentile/Christian, Kirsten Cohen (the world’s coolest Mom; she’s blonde and hot, she along with Sandy takes in misfit/homeless/impoverished teen Ryan Atwood into her home and loves him like her own son Seth, she runs and chairs The Newport Group, Newport Beach, California’s mega million real estate developer, she shares Sandy’s ‘’schmear’’ on a bagel), well, Seth has spent his youth reveling in the joys of both Christmas and Hanukkah.

Seth concocts his very own hodge podge combination of both holidays into one, which he aptly names, Chrismukkah, coining an abbreviated, mish mash of the two names of both winter seasonal holidays into one supersize holiday! Festive and joyous, Christmas decorations and trees, and Hanukkah decorations and dreidels, as well as the very best of merry making, yuletide joy, and happy traditions of both holidays, are abundant.

In Season 2 of ‘’The O.C.’’, for Chrismukkah, Seth’s girlfriend, Summer Roberts, created yarmuclauses for her man, Seth, and for Summer’s and Seth’s pals, Ryan, and his canoodling gal, Summer’s best friend Marissa Cooper-Nichol. Summer’s yarmuclaus, is a traditional yalmulka in keeping with those observing the Jewish faith, but is red in color and trimmed with white, snowy fluff, ala Santa Claus’s traditional hat.

Which brings us now to Season 3 and the Thursday, December 15, annual Chrismukkah episode!

This year, Ryan, who has been adopted into the Cohen family, gets an honorary Bar Mitzvah, giving us the ‘’Chrismukkah, Bar Mitz-vahkkah’’! For this most momentous occasion, also drummed up by who else, Seth, and for which the Cohen family throw a gala that all of Newport attends for their second son, Ryan, ‘’gelt’’ or money is the gift of choice, usually to be set aside for the Bar Mitzvah boy’s college fund.

The event is actually a selfless plan that Seth, Ryan, Summer, and Marissa (along with Sandy’s and Kirsten’s knowledge and blessing), devise to raise the money for the much needed knee surgery for their injured friend, Johnny. But why not enjoy the party anyhow as the fabulous foursome, their families, and friends get down at show’s end to the tune of ‘’That’s What Friends Are For’’.

Nobody knows how to throw a holiday party and celebrate Chrismukkah like the folks at ‘’The O.C.’’!

Indeed, we would like to take the opportunity to also wish to all of our readers, your friends and families, to you and yours….

Have a very Merry, Happy, Healthy, Joyous, CHRISMUKKAH!!!!

Muse News And Micro Muse December 17, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright December 17, 2005

"Buffy The Vampire Slayer" Gets 6 Degrees Of Separation!

‘’"Buffy The Vampire Slayer" Gets 6 Degrees Of Separation!’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright December 16, 2005

Our favorite vampire slayer, the one and only Buffy, gets the infamous 6 degrees of separation treatment (initially started on behalf of actor, Kevin Bacon), courtesy of the December 23, 2005 issue of ‘’Entertainment Weekly’’, in celebration of the current release of the 40 disc DVD anthology set, ‘’Buffy The Vampire Slayer: The Chosen Collection’’.

Turn to page 68 and see a kick butt photo of the slayer herself, stake in hand! Scratch your head and laugh out loud as you follow the confusing as hell diagram which directly connects the Buffmeister (and Buffy star, actress, Sarah Michelle Gellar), to the films ‘’Scooby-Doo’’ and star Freddie Prinze, Jr., ‘’Coal Miner’s Daughter’’ and star Sissy Spacek as well as country singer Loretta Lynn who Spacek portrayed, ‘’Cruel Intentions’’ and stars Ryan Phillippe, Selma Blair, and Reese Witherspoon, “The Grudge’’ and star William Mapother, ‘’I Know What You Did Last Summer’’ and stars Jennifer Love Hewitt, Freddie Prinze, Jr. and Ryan Phillippe and more!

Our favorite that left even us gone trying to connect the dots, well for just a moment, and then we found the light bulb going off over our head, is ‘’My Cousin Vinny’’ and its stars Joe Pesci and Marisa Tomei. Who would have thought!

Our Christmas, Hanukkah, wish? Why but of course! We would simply ADORE seeing sexy British rocking vamp Spike (aka the most gorgeous and talented actor, James Marsters) get his due in the 6 degrees of separation!

We invite YOU to create six degrees of Spike right here!

Muse News And Micro Muse December 16, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright December 16, 2005

"The Chronicles Of Narnia" Knocks "Harry Potter" Out Of #1 Box Office Spot!

‘’‘’The Chronicles of Narnia’’ Knocks ‘’Harry Potter’’ Out Of #1 Box Office Spot!’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright December 11, 2005

As we predicted right here on December 7, the dazzling film adaptation of C.S. Lewis’s classic children’s book, ‘’The Chronicles Of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch, And The Wardrobe’’, did what seemed the impossible.

The daunting task of a film, ANY film, knocking ‘’Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire’’ out of the #1 spot at the box office, after ‘’Narnia’’ premiered Friday, December 9, in theaters nationwide.

After ‘’Harry Potter’’ reigned for some three weeks at number one, ‘’Narnia’’ took in a domestic weekend gross of some $67 million, taking over the box office throne, proving that ‘’Narnia’’ possesses very strong magic, indeed.

So much magic that ‘’Narnia’’ accomplished yet another amazing feat, claiming the title as the film with the 2nd biggest opening ever, in the month of December, nipping at the heels of number one, December box office draw opener, ‘’Lord Of The Rings: The Return Of The King’’ which was released in December of 2003.

While some critics have taken issue with the film’s (and author Lewis’s) blatant Christian overtones and allegory (with the hero/martyr Aslan the Lion being an allegory of the sacrifices and death of Christ), reviewers still seem pretty much unanimous in their praise of the film’s visual splendor and epic magnificence of the story itself, along with Director Andrew Adamson’s victorious translation of Lewis’s beloved fable to the silver screen.

Moreover, actress Tilda Swinton, until now relatively unknown to mainstream film audiences, though she has turned in some stellar performances in art house and Indie flicks such as ‘’Adapatation’’ and ‘’The Deep End’’, is receiving high kudos from fans and press alike, with her show stealing portrayal of the evil ice queen, White Witch, Jadis.

Swinton, who has said in interviews that she had Director Adamson blast music on the film’s production set by the antichrist rocker himself, Marilyn Manson, to get herself fully into her character, is gathering raves with her take on a most non stereotypical witch.

Not your typical cauldron stirring Medusa cursed with an ugly green, boil marked complexion, dressed head to toe in black, Jadis is instead, a mesmerizing beauty, with long blonde dreaded locks spilling over her, dressed in the purity of white, a seemingly regal presence to behold. A contradiction in terms that beguiles and even tempts one of the four British children running from her dark powers, to actually want to grasp her very wicked ways.

Shades of Anakin Skywalker’s own temptation by Senator Palpatine in another fantasy film blockbuster this year, ‘’Star Wars Episode 3: Revenge Of The Sith.’’ Whoops, that’s right! C.S. Lewis penned this years before ‘’Star Wars’’ Creator George Lucas was even born (or at least still in diapers!)

One can see, that ‘’Narnia’’ is a timeless cautionary tale for the ages, and significantly, an ageless story of the battle of good versus, and triumphing over, evil. And George Lucas himself also admitted to both ‘’Star Wars’’ trilogies also being influenced by Christian allegory, amongst other things. Could ‘’Narnia’’ have been one of them?

Anyways, all we can say is that Swinton’s masterful performance should firmly place her on the map as a major talent to be reckoned with and ‘’Narnia’’ is draped with some of the most stunning cinematography, sets, and costumes in film land this year.

Could an Academy Award bid be down the road? Swinton and ‘’The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch, And The Wardrobe’’ get our vote!

Source:
http://www.zap2it.com/movies/news/story/0,1259,---27427,00.html

Muse News And Micro Muse December 11, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright December 11, 2005

Jeff Probst Inks Another Season For "Survivor"!

‘’Jeff Probst Inks Another Season For ‘’Survivor!’’’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright December 10, 2005

Today’s newspaper wire services are reporting that TV reality series, ‘’Survivor’’ will indeed be back for another season this year.

The show’s creator, Jeff Probst, has actually inked a multiyear contract that will keep the show coming back for quite some time on its home at the CBS Television Network, says CBS spokesman, Chris Ender. So it seems that the rabid cult of fans addicted to ‘’Survivor’’ can breathe a sigh of relief that they can continue to tune in each week, to see who gets kicked off whatever far away, international wilderness or tropical location the series takes its members, and who walks away victorious with the truckload of money.

Jeff Probst says that he had contemplated what his life would be like had he ended production on the series and he concluded that he enjoys doing the show far too much to end its run now, stating, ‘’I was thinking about retiring and spending my time traveling to exotic locations around the world, meeting new and interesting people. Then I realized, uh, wait a second, I’m already doing that with ‘’Survivor’’ and getting paid for it, as well.’’

So on with the show! We can’t wait to see where Probst will take the new season’s members and what bitchy, cut throat, survival of the fittest antics those new members will be up to, in determining the last man or woman standing to not be voted off by the other members, to become the ultimate winner of a boat load of cash.

As for Probst choosing new locations. We’d like to see say, hmmm, Alaska, (yeah! try life living in an igloo, getting your food by ice fishing and trapping, your only transportation being a dog sled, fending off polar bears, white outs, slipping and sliding on glaciers!), or maybe somewhere in the African wilderness with lions and elephants, or some way off tropical island like Kiwi, or maybe somewhere in the Amazon jungle with unfriendly…er…natives and insects the size of a football. Now we’re talking! How about you?!

We invite your comments on where YOU think the series should take its members, next.

Muse News And Micro Muse December 10, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright December 10, 2005

Wilmer Valderrama Revs His Harley As TV's "ChiPs" Hits The Big Screen!

‘’Wilmer Valderrama Revs His Harley As TV’s ‘’ChiPs’’ Hits The Big Screen!’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright December 9, 2005

Wilmer Valderrama, well known for his somewhat ditzy role as the loveable, fuzzy, Fez, on the Fox Television Network’s, long running hit comedy series, ‘’That 70’s Show’’, has landed the lead role as California motorcycle cop, Ponch, in the upcoming film version of the 1970’s NBC Television Network’s hit police drama series, ‘’ChiPs’’.

The role of Ponch was originally portrayed in the TV series by hunky Latin/American actor, Erik Estrada, who rose to fame and became something of a celebrity sex symbol, long before singer Ricky Martin showed screaming women everywhere, that Latin/American heritage performers could scorchingly shake their ‘’bon bon’’, when Estrada took his own charismatic good looks to the California Interstate each week, as female viewers drooled over Estrada straddling his ‘’bon bon’’ in the seat of a Harley Davidson.

Now, Valderrama, another hot Latin lover, at a mere 25 years old, though in Valderrama’s case, for his real life canoodling, dalliances with the likes of a laundry list of sizzling A list starlets, most notably, a well publicized romance with actress, Lindsay Lohan, will step into the boots and straddle the Harley motorcycle portraying LAPD Highway Patrol, police officer, Francis ‘’Ponch’’ Poncherello.

‘’People Magazine’s’’ website has the latest buzz that ‘’The Hollywood Reporter Magazine’’ reported news of Valderrama’s big screen entry. The magazine says the screen adaptation of ‘’ChiPs’’ will be released by Warner Brothers, but as yet still is looking to book (pun intended!) both a Director and a Producer. The film also is still in the process of casting Ponch’s bike riding law enforcement partner and buddy, Jon Baker, who was portrayed on the TV series by actor, Larry Wilcox.

We don’t know about you, but whatever the ‘’it’’ factor is, Valderrama must be reeking of it. Or so it seems by a glut of Hollywood’s budding young actresses who all have a thing for Valderrama. Obviously, lurking behind his comic portrayal of Fez, lurks a bold and charismatic heart throb who attracts starlets to him, like bees to honey.

If Valderrama can drizzle some of that honey on the big screen, he can throw the handcuffs on us and book us, anytime!

Source:
http://people.aol.com/people/articles/0,19736,1139397,00.html

Muse News And Micro Muse December 9, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright December 9, 2005

Great Expectations For "The Chronicles Of Narnia"!

‘’Great Expectations For ‘’The Chronicles of Narnia!’’’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright December 7, 2005

We don’t know about you, but we are very much looking forward to the film adaptation of beloved writer C.S. Lewis’s classic children’s book, ‘’The Chronicles Of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe’’, which opens this Friday, December 9, in theaters nationwide.

The trailers are both thrilling and dazzling and this film seems a top contender for knocking ‘’Harry Potter’’ out of the number 1 spot at the box office.

A majestic, regal, spectacular feast, both visually and in epic storytelling, combining both live action and CGI images and effects, the film tells the tale of four British children hiding from World War II’s German blitz bombings, by being sent to the country estate of a Professor for their safety.

While staying at the Professor’s manor, the four siblings venture upon and enter a wardrobe, which leads them directly into the magical land of Narnia.

Narnia itself, is an allegory of WWII London being besieged by Hitler's Nazi Germany, since Narnia itself is also under the evil spell of Jadis, the White Witch, portrayed by actress, Tilda Swinton, who has frozen Narnia into an eternal winter, of cold, ice, desolation, and despair.

But as is the case with most fables, a hero rises to the occasion to restore order, light, and hope. And who better than the noble lion, Aslan, voiced by the most venerable, esteemed, and talented actor, Liam Neeson.

Aslan and his animal comrades in arms ally themselves to save both the children and Narnia in a battle of good versus evil and somehow we just know that this courageous, benevolent lion and his charges will triumph, as so will our spirits with this timeless story being brought to life on the silver screen.

Muse News And Micro Muse December 7, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright December 7, 2005

"Smallville's" Lex Luthor Experiences Christmas's "It's A Wonderful Life"!

''‘’Smallville’s’’ Lex Luthor Experiences Christmas’s ‘’It’s A Wonderful Life!’’’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright December 4, 2005

This Thursday’s episode of the WB Television Network’s hit ‘’Smallville’’, will venture down its own take on the wondrous parable of the beloved 1946 Christmas holiday classic film, ‘’It’s A Wonderful Life’’.

The December 8, 2005 episode revisits the film through the character of ‘’Smallville’’ resident baddie, Lex Luthor.

In the film ‘’It’s A Wonderful Life’’, kind and virtuous small town citizen, George Bailey, portrayed by actor, Jimmy Stewart, wishes he had never been born, and thinks that the people in his life would be better off without him had he never touched their lives, after a series of his own personal misfortunes clouds his mind with self doubt. A guardian angel arrives to show George how the lives of those he loved and befriended would have been very tragic and worse the wear indeed, had George never been born, and never been there to brighten and indeed better and enrich their lives…and that George’s life is not bad at all, but wonderful for the good he has brought to his fellow man and loved ones, who all love him very much indeed.

In a revisionist reversal of the film, in ‘’Smallville’s’’ Christmas episode, Lex Luthor (who we think must have taken lessons from the Grinch like town rich guy, Mr. Potter in ‘’It’s A Wonderful Life’’), will fall into a coma after being shot. Then, in the true spirit of Christmas, Lex’s long deceased and beloved mother will arrive as Lex’s guardian angel, to show the perennial Scrooge like Lex, what an evil, ruthless person he is, and the harm and sadness he has caused to Clark, Jonathan, and Martha Kent, Lana, and the citizens of ‘’Smallville’’.

Lex’s own mother will show him what his life, and the lives of those he knows and used to befriend, but has since betrayed in ‘’Smallville’’, would be like, if he could cast aside his life as the heir to his father, Lionel’s dark, greed and power driven dynasty and its mercurial empire corporation built on evil, LuthorCorp…in essence, how Lex COULD have a wonderful life.

We think this is a clever and meaningful way for ‘’Smallville’’ to show its well, wonderful, way of weaving storytelling and honoring the spirit of what the ‘’Superman’’ comic books (and Christmas) are all about. Of course, its own parable of good versus evil, and choosing one’s own destiny and path, hopefully an honorable one, even when continually tempted, tested, or battled by the forces of evil.

We would like to think Lex would permanently walk the path of what ‘’It’s A Wonderful Life’’ and Christmas are all about. Good will towards men and all that.

But, remember folks, that this IS ‘’Smallville’’ and part of the ‘’Superman’’ myth. Lex might turn Mr. Nice Guy for the holiday season, but he HAS to turn back to the dark side for the juicy clash of the titans to continue as Clark/Superman and Lex, continue as super power endowed hero and villain, forever locked in their gripping, thrilling battle that is the stuff that super heroes, legends, and Christmas, are made of!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ‘’Smallville’’ fans and to everyone!

Muse News And Micro Muse December 4, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright December 4, 2005

Hayden Christensen And Jessica Alba Heat Up Wide ''Awake''!

‘’Hayden Christensen And Jessica Alba Heat Up Wide ‘’Awake!’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 30, 2005

It is thoroughly impossible to read us without us finding some way or another to plug or crow about 2 divine sparkling stars poised on the horizon that we simply adore. (So get used to it!)

The most gorgeous and talented actor, Hayden Christensen (aka Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader in the 2 ‘’Star Wars’’ episodes ‘’2: Attack Of The Clones’’ and ‘’3: Revenge Of The Sith’’ as well as ‘’Shattered Glass’’, ‘’Life As A House’’), and the luscious, bootylicious and talented actress, Jessica Alba (aka Nancy in ‘’Sin City’’, Sue Storm in ‘’The Fantastic Four’’, 2005’s ‘’Into The Blue’’, and TV’s ‘’Dark Angel’’).

Well, not only does blue eyed Hayden have the film ‘’Decameron: Angels and Virgins’’ in the can, after wrapping up filming in Italy, awaiting a 2006 release date, but we hear that he and Jessie Alba are steaming up the film set, and will soon be burning up movie screens everywhere, playing a married couple in the new film thriller, ‘’Awake’’.

Both Hayden and Jessie possess the charisma and screen presence of stars we love from yesteryear, whose passionate on screen romances still dazzle us. Bogey and Bacall, Gable and Lombard, Burton and Taylor.

Now we have Hayden and Jessie! (or would that be Christensen and Alba!) What an enchanting pairing! We can’t wait to see ‘’Awake’’ and see the sparks fly when these two, oh, so beautiful to look at talents, make love to one another…and to us, weaving their cinema magic spell over us!

Muse News And Micro Muse November 30, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 30, 2005

Bob Geldof Receives Nobel Man Of Peace Award In Ceremony, Thursday!

‘’Bob Geldof Receives Nobel Man Of Peace Award In Ceremony, Thursday!’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 25, 2005

Sir Bob Geldof was honored with the 2005 Nobel Man Of Peace Award at a ceremony held Thursday, November 24, 2005 in Rome on Capitoline Hill.

Former leader of the Soviet Union, Mikhail Gorbachev presented the award to Sir Bob, who dressed in style for the momentous occasion, in a pin striped, tailored suit.

The previous winning recipients of the Nobel Peace Prize through the years, who were in attendance not only for the ceremony, but for the opening of the 2005 World Summit of Nobel Peace Laureates, voted for Sir Bob to receive this most auspicious, esteemed award of the Nobel Man Of Peace, in recognition of ‘’his unflagging work and powerful voice on behalf of the poor of Africa in the last 20 years and in particular, the last 12 months. He has harnessed world opinion to make political leaders act immediately, improving the lives of millions.’’

Geldof, the co-founder and co-organizer of 1984’s Band Aid, 1985’s Live Aid, 2005’s Live 8, and the Band Aid Trust, all which have raised funds and awareness to stem and eradicate starvation and poverty in 3rd world nations, most notably in the African continent, while humbled and honored with the award, still utilized the event as a significant, high profile platform, with the eyes and ears of the world upon him, to speak out further in addressing global poverty.

Sir Bob adamantly stated that ‘’Africa must be allowed to trade itself out of poverty.’’ And went on to say that the circumstances in Africa are ‘’not only intellectually absurd, but morally repulsive.’’

Geldof then reamed the European Union (EU), demanding that they take a concrete stand at next month’s World Trade Organization discussions which will be held in Hong Kong. ‘’The EU must break the deadlock in the negotiation’s in Hong Kong and as of today it has failed to do so. We live in a broken world which has never been healthier and wealthier, but some 500 kilometers south of here they die of want.’’

Geldof further ripped into Italy for being ‘’the least generous of the developed world with regard to aid and that is a shame. We ask the political class, left or right, to change that.’’

Italy contributes the lowest amount of funds for 3rd world poverty in terms of the annual G8 Summit. The G8 Summit comprises annual meetings of the leaders of the 8 leading industrialized, western nations, holding talks addressing providing aid and formulating concrete solutions for the world’s ills including poverty, hunger, AIDS, fair trade, and global warming. Italy’s aid has actually been dropping annually despite the other seven, G8 nations’ aid increasing their assistance over the years.

Sir Bob, along with fellow musician, artist/social activist, Midge Ure, organized the all star line-up music group, Band Aid, in November, 1984, with its charity single record, ‘’Do They Know It’s Christmas?’’ and the mammoth 2 continent wide, music benefit concert, Live Aid in July, 1985, both which raised millions of dollars for African famine relief, and which spurned Sir Bob on, to form the Band Aid Trust. The Band Aid Trust has remained a vital, ongoing, active force in continually raising global public awareness, and much needed funds to aid the poor and starving in Africa for 20 years.

This July 2, 2005, Sir Bob made lightening strike twice when he and Midge Ure organized the global wide music benefit concert, Live 8, which not only had the same basic goals as Live Aid, but instead of asking the public to pledge funds to aid African poverty, as had been done with Live Aid, Live 8 was staged to raise enough public and political awareness and leverage to bring the issue to the table of the July 2005, G8 Summit, held in Gleneagles, Scotland.

It was at the G8 Summit, that Geldof hoped that the leaders of the world’s 8 leading western nations would heed Live 8’s initiative and call to arms, which was the monumental voice raised loud and proud by millions of socially conscious aware people around the world, to increase aid to Africa, forgive debt to Africa and many 3rd world nations, and enact fair trade.

Live 8 successfully convinced the 2005 G8 Summit leaders to double aid to Africa to $50 billion by the year 2010, and to grant $40 billion of debt relief (canceling/forgiving debts) for 18 nations worldwide.

Sir Bob, while he stood beside previous Nobel Peace Prize Laureates Lech Walesa and Mikhail Gorbachev, told Reuters News Service that he would prefer receiving an award honoring his work in music over his work in politics.

For the stalwart music artist/social activist, he stated that ‘’It’s a beautiful statue, but, you know, I can get it, I can go to the shop and buy a statue. They’re only useful if you can use them. The ones I love getting are music awards, because then I feel very proud of something I’ve done. But these are political and should be used politically.’’

Well, Sir Bob, true to form and his very words, did just that and used the award politically, as he seized the opportunity at hand, and best utilized his award reception to once again, step up to the plate, to use his voice to raise political awareness with the world’s media, politicians, and audience, listening….and hopefully they will continue doing their part, taking a stand, and shaping changes for a better world, without hunger, without want.

With the 21st anniversary of the song that started it all now upon us, on the heels of the USA’s Thanksgiving holiday, remembering what we are most thankful for, and with the approach of Christmas 2005, around the world, wouldn’t it be wonderful for each and every one of us, all part of the global humanity of mankind here on earth, to honor, and to act upon, every day, and every year, the words of Sir Bob Geldof’s and Midge Ure’s song, Band Aid’s ‘’Do They Know It’s Christmas?’’

...’’And in our world of plenty, we could spread a smile of joy. Throw your arms around the world at Christmas time.’’

And many heartfelt congratulations to you, Sir Bob!

Sources:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/4466340.stm
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20051124/en_nm/italy_aid_geldof_dc_2

Muse News And Micro Muse November 25, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 25, 2005

"Lost" Releases Exclusive "Video Diaries" For Cell Phones!

‘’Lost’’ Releases Exclusive ''Video Diaries'' For Cell Phones!’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 22, 2005

Now rabid fans of ‘’Lost’’ the ABC Television Network’s cult hit series, have even more plot twists, turns, bizarre characters with mysterious backgrounds, and storyline cliffhangers to keep them guessing until the cows come home.

Zap2it.com reports that the producers of ‘’Lost’’ are filming special, exclusive mini-show shorts, not ever seen on the regularly broadcast series, that will be made available for viewing only via download on mobile, cellular phones.

Beginning January 2006, Verizon’s V Cast Mobile Service’s subscribers can view the ‘’Lost Video Diaries’’ on their cell phones.

The ‘’Diaries’’, according to ABC, are an ‘’extension’’ of the series, and are 2 minutes in length. Each mini episode will focus on never before seen characters, that are not included or featured on the weekly ABC broadcasts, who survived the heinous crash of the ill fated airplane Flight, 815.

‘’Lost’’ co-creator Damon Lindelof (who collaborates on the show with ‘’Lost’’ creator and executive producer, ‘’Lost’’ wizard/mastermind J.J. Abrams), tells Zap2it.com that ‘’Viewers always ask us, ‘What’s going on with the people in the background? Don’t they have stories too?’ Well the answer is yes, and now we’ve got the perfect format to tell those stories.’’

So far, there are plans to produce at least 22 of the ‘’Video Diaries’’. And for those without cell phones, or wanting a permanent collection of the diaries to view over and over again, they will all be included in ‘’Lost’s’’ Season 2 DVD set, and 6 out of the 22 featurettes, will not be made available for cell phones, and will only be included on the DVD set. So now you just HAVE to curb your ‘’Lost’’ addiction and buy the entire 2nd season on DVD!

Sounds like great marketing to us.

But we just love and CRAVE ‘’Lost’’ and learning about each character’s life prior to the plane crash, told in flashback, and how each person was indeed, lost, whether through personal tragedy, flaws in their moral fiber, ethics, personal loss, misdeeds, even criminal activities, etc, and then witnessing the surreal transformation, somehow, on this dark, mysterious, supernatural force imbued island, how these ‘’lost’’ souls, then ‘’find’’ themselves, and….thus, their own redemption, getting a second chance in life to put things right for themselves, while helping one another, that is their fellow castaways, when they must pull together as a group for their very survival in the face of never ending peril, id like growling man eating monsters, a weird para military cult initiative group that used to inhabit the island, pirates, and whatever else Abrams and Lindelof can conjure up to scare the pants off of us!

Source:
http://tv.zap2it.com/tveditorial/tve_main/1,1002,271987371,00.html

Muse News And Micro Muse November 22, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 22, 2005

"Lost's" Dominic Monaghan Narrates "Lord Of The Rings" Documentary Homage To Fans!

‘’‘’Lost’s’’ Dominic Monaghan Narrates ‘’Lord Of The Rings’’ Documentary Homage To Fans!’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 21, 2005

For all you passionate fans of the ‘’Lord Of The Rings’’ film trilogy, and the books that inspired them, get ready to jump for joy!

‘’Ringers: Lord Of The Fans’’, is a direct to DVD documentary that pays homage to, is a celebration of, and is lovingly made to honor, the devotion of the ‘’Lord Of The Rings’’ fans themselves, known fondly in LOTR obsessed fan circles as ‘’Ringers’’. At just $24.98, it makes a great holiday stocking stuffer!

‘’TV Guide’s’’ November 21-27, 2005 issue interviews LOTR film trilogy hobbit, Merry (Meriadoc Brandybuck), himself, British actor, Dominic Monaghan, who narrates the documentary, while he takes a break from currently starring as island castaway, Charlie, in the ABC Television Network’s hit cult series ‘’Lost’’.

TV Guide’s Anderson Jones asks Monaghan if being cast in one of the most legendary film franchises, (and motion picture adaptation of an even more legendary, monolithic work of literature), ever, if he has encountered fans mobbing or harassing him?

The always gracious Monaghan replies that ‘’Every experience I’ve had with fans has been positive. They politely ask questions and I try to answer as best as I can.’’

The documentary examines how LOTR author, J.R.R. Tolkien’s books have influenced popular culture, and in particular, rock music, and so ‘’TV Guide’’ inquires from Monaghan if the LOTR books likewise had any influence on his ‘’Lost’’ character, rock musician Charlie’s band Drive Shaft, in which Charlie plays bass?

Monaghan says that ‘’I don’t think Charlie’s band is as good as Charlie thinks it is. Whether Drive Shaft would draw on classical literature? I don’t know.’’

Then ‘’TV Guide’’ can’t miss the opportunity to ask if there is ‘’any chance a hobbit might show up on ‘’Lost’’?

Monaghan says that ‘’The producers have been trying to have Billy Boyd (Pippin from LOTR) play my brother. They were pretty keen on that idea from the start.’’

Then Monaghan jokingly adds that, ‘’ Elijah (Wood) has the kind of face that would work on the show, he’s always looking shocked. And he’s always calling. It’s possible’’.

Elijah, get on that horn, NOW…as we’d LOVE to see you, and Billy guest on ‘’Lost’’, a series that shares in the LOTR mythology, in it being a world of the fantastic and magic fused with a world of logic, and more so, is an ongoing battle of good versus evil and the claim of saving the good in mankind’s souls over dark, seductive supernatural forces.

We highly recommend you check out this thoughtful, detailed and affectionate look at the ‘’Lord Of The Rings’’ fans, which also features special appearances and or narration by, LOTR stars, Sir Ian McKellen, Viggo Mortensen, Billy Boyd, Elijah Wood, Sean Astin, Andy Serkis, and of course, the most brilliant visionary who adapted and realized the LOTR trilogy so faithfully to film, Director Peter Jackson.

Other guests in the documentary include: Film Directors/Producers Clive Barker, Cameron Crowe, Forrest J. Ackerman and rock royalty, Geddy Lee from Rush and Lemmy Kilmister from Motorhead!

Celebrate this Christmas and Hanukkah with the greatest, bravest, and wisest of Santa Clauses and his helpers for the ages.

Gandalf, elves, and the hobbits!

Source:
http://www.allmovie.com/cg/avg.dll?p=avg&sql=1:331019

Muse News And Micro Muse November 21, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 21, 2005

"Smallville" Gets Major Kudos, Spoilers Galore In Entertainment Weekly!

‘’‘’Smallville’’ Gets Major Kudos, Spoilers Galore In Entertainment Weekly!’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 19, 2005

‘’Smallville’’ gets some big time, dubious honors in the current November 25, 2005 issue of ‘’Entertainment Weekly Magazine’’.

After you drool over the glorious full page photos of our favorite citizen of ‘’Smallville’’, Clark Kent/Superman, aka, actor hunky and talented Tom Welling on pages 7, and 62, flip to page 63 with it’s excellent article about the show’s 5th season, ‘’Small Wonders-A Heroic Effort’’.

EW Magazine raves on about how season 5 has ditched the snail trail, limp writing that slogged up seasons 3 and 4, and is a brilliant return to form of the stellar storytelling and writing that we all came to know and love in the show’s first 2 breath taking seasons, which chronicled the younger years of perhaps comic books’ greatest of super heroes.

Another addition in making this season a winner, is a BIG injection of fresh blood with the introduction to ‘’Smallville’’, of fan favorite characters from the original ‘’Superman’’ and DC comics, Brainiac (played to the hilt by the venerable, most fabulous James Marsters of ‘’Buffy The Vampire Slayer’’) and Aquaman, (played with such addictive energy by ‘’American Idol’s’’ Alan Ritchson, that Aquaman now is getting his own pilot!)

‘’Smallville’s’’ parent Network, the WB, has taken careful notice too, and says that the show has seen a 1.5 million jump in viewer ratings over last year’s 4th season, to total some 5.8 million viewers weekly.

What makes these figures even more remarkable is that ‘’Smallville’’, which has previously been wedged in 2 other time slots, initially in its very successful, Tuesday night lineup in seasons 1 and 2, is now slotted on Thursday nights, EST USA time at 8:00 pm up against heavy hitters hits, ‘’The O.C.’’ on the Fox Network, ‘’Alias’’ on ABC, and Chris Rock’s ‘’Everybody Hates Chris’’ on the UPN Network.

A feat worthy of the one and only Kryptonian superhero, Superman!

EW Magazine says that David Janollari, President of WB Entertainment says, ‘’This is the year that the boy becomes the man.’’

So what’s in store for Clark this season? Well first we must yell SPOILER ALERT!! and so we must inform you that you must proceed with caution, as we reveal beforehand knowledge of this season’s super twists!

Well, for one, it seems that the friendship that once was between Clark and Lex finally sees its end and that what will become their notorious battle of good (Clark) versus evil (Lex) finally boils to an ugly head.

We also will get to witness the genesis of the Fortress of Solitude, a major character will DIE in the 100th episode which will air in February, 2006, and best of all....Clark and Lana will at last get their groove on, make whoopee, do the wild thing, translation, make torrid, passionate love/have SEX!!

EW Magazine interviews ‘’Smallville’s’’ cast and crew starting with Executive Producer Al Gough who says, ‘’We came into the season knowing we were going to be able to turn over some big cards. Everything you’ve been waiting to see, is now going to happen.’’

Tom Welling adds his thoughts too saying, ‘’As long as we stick to what the show was about originally in the mythology of these characters and where we all know they’re going to be in the future, there’s no way of knowing how far it can go.’’

Well said Tom! We hope ‘’Smallville’’ keeps sticking with the spectacular program so to speak, and that it (and you TOM) keep us glued to the edge of our seat, enthralled and waiting with baited breath for each new episode as Clark, Lana, Lex, Brainiac, Chloe, heck, even Jonathan and Martha Kent…keep us wanting to tune in to the further adventures of legendary super hero, Superman, for many more seasons to come, as you save the world from Lex and other megalomaniac super powered endowed baddies, while still looking hot and buff in your blue unitard, all while steamily romancing Lana!

Faster than a speeding bullet and able to leap other so called hit TV series, in a single bound!

Muse News And Micro Muse November 19, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 19, 2005

The Cure Begin Recording New Album January 2006, More Reissues On The Way!

‘’The Cure Begin Recording New Album January 2006, More Reissues On The Way!’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 18, 2005

Get out your black as midnight gothic garb, black eyeliner, black nail polish, and get ready to rock and mope!

Billboard.com reports that Robert Smith and company, The Cure, will be ‘’Back In Black’’ to quote AC/DC, in the recording studio this January 2006 to begin work on a new studio album.

Robert Smith, on the band’s official website, www.thecure.com, tells fans, ‘’We are still on course for a summer release, as it’s all in the preparation.’’

The album, still to be titled, is the follow up to the band’s self titled 2004 album on Geffen Records, which won raves from critics and fans alike and saw a resurgence in the band’s stature, with both Smith and The Cure being name checked as a major influence on and by a slew of younger, current artists.

This led to The Cure’s highly successful 2004 Curiosa Tour, an international, festival style tour which The Cure headlined on a main stage while helping to showcase a bevy of Indie, up and coming bands on several other stages, including Muse, Mogwai, Cursive, Melissa Auf der Maur, The Rapture and more to great acclaim.

The new album will not feature guitarist Perry Bamonte and keyboardist Roger O’Donnell, who departed the band early this year without explanation from the band’s reps. Since, The Cure’s former guitarist Porl Thompson has been brought back to the fold and will be involved with the new record, which will feature Cure veterans, bassist Simon Gallup and drummer Jason Cooper.

The band has also received laudits from rabid fans and critics alike, regarding its painstaking to detail, lushly packaged, sterling reissue series of its entire, chronological, back catalogue of albums.

Following the stellar reissue release of this past year’s iconic gems, 1979’s ‘’Three Imaginary Boys’’, 1980’s ‘’Seventeen Seconds’’, 1981’s ‘’Faith’’, and 1982’s ‘’Pornography’’, next up for reissue/release are 1984’s ‘’The Top’’, 1985’s ‘’The Head On The Door’’, and 1987’s ‘’Kiss Me Kiss Me Kiss Me’’.

Also, salivating Goth fans everywhere can really get their ya yas out as Smith and longtime friend/collaborator, bass player Steve Severin of Siouxsie And The Banshees, will be remastering and reissuing their one off album, ‘’Blue Sunshine’’, from 1983, recorded by the 2 when they were working in their infamous side project/duo, moniker known as The Glove.

The next crop of various reissues are all due to drop this Spring, 2006.

The remasters/reissues so far have contained a treasure trove of extras including 2nd companion CD discs containing rarities, B sides, demos, outtakes, and live recordings, plus extensive and glorious liner notes and photos from Smith himself.

Smith also is said to be working on a DVD of live Cure performances from last summer, and composing some music for a motion picture. (The Cure already have written and recorded songs for the films ‘’The Crow’’ and ‘’Judge Dredd’’).

The past few years have proved quite fruitful and successful for The Cure, re-emerging to prominence as one of rock music’s most seminal, influential bands, with The Cure’s 2004, comeback of sorts album, headlining and stealing the show performing at 2004’s Coachella Valley Music And Arts Festival in Indio, California, major appearances in the United States on shows such as ‘’The Tonight Show’’ and ‘’Jimmy Kimmel Live’’, a worldwide tour, being honored and covered by the likes of new Indie band, 311, who had a major hit single with The Cure’s own hit, ‘’Love Song’’, and this past July 2005, The Cure performed at the Paris leg of Live 8!

We have a big time soft spot for The Cure and the most inimitable, multi-talented singer/songwriter/guitarist extraordinaire, Robert Smith. So we can’t wait for all of the yummy music goodies, soon to be released, galore! Galore, why that would be the name of their Greatest Hits album and aptly titled!

We also want to wish everybody, from us, and we would also like to think from The Cure, since today is Friday, that who ever, or whatever your passion is, well as the song says, that all of you feel that and sing ‘’Friday I’m In Love’’!

Source:
http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/news/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1001524211

Muse News And Micro Muse November 18, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 18, 2005

"Battlestar Galactica" Renewed For 3rd Season On Sci Fi Network!

‘’Battlestar Galactica’’ Renewed For 3rd Season On Sci Fi Network!’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 17, 2005

The new and wayyyy improved Millennium version of the late 1970’s ABC TV Network clunker, ‘’Battlestar Galactica’’, which in its new incarnation on the Sci Fi cable Network, is well, nothing short of stellar and celestial (pun intended!), has been green lighted for a 3rd season!

The show has been optioned for an additional 20 episodes which will start shooting next year.

The show’s starring actors will be back on board for Season 3, including Edward James Olmos and Mary McDonnell, along with Executive Producers David Eick and Ronald D. Moore who developed the Millennium edition of the series based on the original 70’s series.

‘’Battlestar Galactica’’ has drawn rave reviews from the critics and best of all, it has been a huge commercial success with a galactic size fan base, pulling in some 3 million TV viewers regularly and that’s on top of a one, two, three punch, designed by the Sci Fi Network, for its Friday night knockout punch lineup of ‘’Battlestar’’ along with the Network’s 2 ‘’Stargate’’ series.

Yeah, we LOVE the new ‘’Battlestar’’ too, and best of all, we have to give kudos to the casting of the incredibly talented, esteemed, and venerable Edward James Olmos in the same series that in it’s polyester, 5 cent budget, 70’s edition, originally starred the likes of cheese ball Lorne Greene and hammy, scenery chewing Harrison Ford wannabe, Dirk Benedict…wow, like the difference between the original masterful ‘’Star Wars’’ trilogy and those cursed Jar Jar Binks tainted prequels! Argh!! Oh, stop! We just couldn’t resist!

Source:
http://tv.zap2it.com/tveditorial/tve_main/1,1002,271986431,00.html

Muse News And Micro Muse November 17, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 17, 2005

"Metropolis" Poster Sells For Whopping L390,000!

‘’Metropolis’’ Poster Sells For Whopping L390,000!

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 17, 2005

An original, limited edition poster from Director Fritz Lang’s iconic, science fiction silent film classic, ‘’Metropolis’’, one of only 4 original prints left, known to be in existence, sold for a hefty L390,000. The poster, from 1926 set a world record price for a vintage poster.

The print, a Sepia, depicts the film’s iconic, equal parts daunting, steely ice cold, yet sensually surreal, female robot, posed in front of the utopian city of the future, in which the film takes place.

The poster was sold by London’s Reel Poster Gallery to an anonymous American collector. (It was us! Just joking, but we sure would love to have that piece of legendary film memorabilia).

The 2nd of the 4 ‘’Metropolis’’ posters sold for $357,000 in New York back in 2000. The 3rd and 4th posters are respectively in the acquisitions of the Berlin Film Museum and The Museum Of Modern Art in New York.

Amazing that after nearly an entire century, the lure that this film, and anything involved with it still holds. Made long before CGI and blue screens were invented and made special effects as easy as the click of a mouse and a computer keystroke, the film remains timeless in its still mind boggling special effects and most of all, its unprecedented, character driven, outstanding 1984 look into an ‘’idealistic’’ future that turned out to be more of a nightmare, in which the ultra rich, lose all sense of humanity and compassion for mankind as a whole, placing their own personal pleasure and wealth over the common good, safety, value, and very lives of anyone lacking upper society echelon privilege.

The film, way ahead of its time, couldn’t be more of an actual sign of our own times here in 2005, when every day, thousands die each and every day of starvation and poverty around the world, as the privileged few, obliviously live large in the digital age, high atop their ivory towers.

George Lucas’s cardboard, stilted dialogue and narratives and CGI overload of the ‘’Star Wars’’ prequels could take a lesson from the brilliantly intelligent, emotional storytelling and YES dialogue…even if it was written subtitles to a silent film, and lesson for the ages…of Fritz Lang’s masterpiece of cinema.

Source:
http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,14929-1873856,00.html

Muse News And Micro Muse November 17, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 17, 2005

"Smallville's" Michael Rosenbaum Writing Pilot For Fox Network!

‘’"Smallville’s" Michael Rosenbaum Writing Pilot For Fox Network!’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 16, 2005

Sexy Lex (y) Luthor, aka actor, Michael Rosenbaum from ‘’Smallville’ is one happy camper. The veteran of all 5 seasons of the hit WB Television Network series is now branching out into different areas of TV and film production, adding to his resume in his already well proven acting gifts in front of the camera.

Zap2it.com reports that Rosenbaum is collaborating with ‘’Smallville’’ Executive Producer, Greg Beeman, to write the teleplay for the Fox Television Network pilot, ‘’Welcome To Paradise’’.

The pilot, a liberal, semi-autobiographical, humorous take on Rosenbaum’s own childhood and younger years, will trace the course of the teenage years of a boy whose family moves from New York to Indiana. Rosenbaum and his own family actually did indeed move from the Big Apple to Indiana in the mid 1980’s.

Rosenbaum says in ‘’The Hollywood Reporter’’, ‘’It’s pretty much about how he gets through life. He’s got this crazy mom who is a child at heart, because she married early and never got to be a child.’’

Rosenbaum goes on to say that the concept for the show sprang from his documenting his teen years to kill time while on the set of ‘’Smallville’’, during breaks in filming, kidding that ‘’I was too cheap to get therapy.’’

Rosenbaum took his work to Beeman for a look see, and the joint effort of the 2 in developing Rosenbaum’s writings into an actual pilot, was born.

This is Rosenbaum’s first endeavor at writing a TV pilot, and his chops must be pretty impressive as the Fox Television Network, already optioned the pilot.

Rosenbaum will also take a very hands on approach to the show, acting as Executive Producer.

We’re proud of you Michael and we think it’s just like a Superman, to be so business and creatively savvy, highlighting how very talented and multi-faceted you are, both in front of and behind the camera. Can’t wait to see your new show! What’s down the road for this dynamic auteur? Hmmm. Michael Rosenbaum…Director?! Watch out Spielberg!

Source:
http://tv.zap2it.com/tveditorial/tve_main/1,1002,271986291,00.html

Muse News And Micro Muse November 16, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 16, 2005

Aquaman Gets His Own Show On WB TV Network!

‘’Aquaman Gets His Own Show On WB TV Network!’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 15, 2005

Aquaman, whose recent appearance on an episode of the WB Television Network’s series, ‘’Smallville’’ clocked the highest ratings of any episode this season, is getting his own TV pilot.

The Aquaman pilot will be a collaboration from ‘’Smallville’’ creators Miles Millar and Al Gough, who will write the program. We saw the Aquaman ‘’Smallville’’ episode and admit, it is a keeper and that Mr. Deep Sea Super Hero deserves a chance at his own TV series. We’ll be watching!

Like ‘’Smallville’, the Aquaman feature will also be set in the present day world and most of the storylines and action will not take place underwater. Also, Alan Ritchson, from ‘’American Idol’’ who portrayed the underwater hero on ‘’Smallville’’ is not a contender for the role, which is still as yet to be cast.

In the same way that ‘’Smallville’’ concentrates on great character driven storytelling and narratives, showcasing Superman’s everyday ‘’normal’’ man, Clark Kent and his ‘’mortal’’ life making his way among mortal life (and love), so will the Aquaman show, which will focus on Aquaman’s mortal counterpart, Arthur Curry, a young 20 something, just realizing his special powers and abilities and how to best utilize them for good, long before being crowned as King of Atlantis.

We’re rooting for this Aquaman series as we LOVE our comics heroes brought to 21st century life. We just hope that if the series takes off, that the creators are careful to not let it run short of steam. ‘’Smallville’’ is one of our favorite shows, but the last 2 seasons…well we don’t know if it’s just us, but does it feel like the super is missing in Superman these days? Just a little sluggish of late. Great show, but the writing needs to get back to the superior storytelling of the 1st 3 seasons and honestly, Lois Lane is about as exciting as a dish rag.

It was SO much better when Clark and Lana kept their burning, yearning desire for one another, just a hairs breath apart!

Anyways, we can’t wait for Aquaman and we’re looking forward to it!

Speaking of….anybody catch the multiple, Xcellent showings (pun intended) of the film ‘’X-Men’’ just bursting at the seams with some of our all time favorite superheroes, (what a multi-talented ensemble cast! How about Hugh Jackman stealing the show as Wolverine, not to mention Ian McKellen, Halle Berry, Famke Janssen, James Marsden, Anna Paquin! WOW do we love this outstandingly written, character development and emotionally driven rush of adrenaline!) as well as the highly underrated and criticized film ‘’Daredevil’’ (a guilty pleasure which we happen to love, thank you!) repeated umpteen times this past week on the FX Cable Television Network!

As Xcellent as Professor Xavier played brilliantly by the most illustrious British actor, Patrick Stewart!

Rock on Superheroes as you save the day (and the world) from the most dastardly of supervillans! X-Men, UNITE!!!!

Source:
http://tv.zap2it.com/tveditorial/tve_main/1,1002,271986171,00.html

Muse News And Micro Muse November 15, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 15, 2005

The Darkness Wages Verbal War On Coldplay!

‘’The Darkness Wages Verbal War On Coldplay!’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 14, 2005

What is it about British bands slagging each other off? While we find it more than amusing, what really is their point? From where we stand, it usually appears to be a suspicious case of intentionally using backstabbing, biting remarks to actually gain notoriety, press, a sh*tload of free publicity, equating to increased record and concert ticket sales, (or so they hope!)

Here in the USA, rappers from the so called west coast, notoriously ‘’feud’’ with east coast rappers no doubt for the same reason. But back to those Brits, (who by the way we love!)

In the mid 1990’s Oasis and Blur were infamous for their scathing verbal pot shots against one another in the media. Nothing was off limits; musical talent, record sales, physical features, often going way below the belt.

Course Oasis slags off everyone in the history of music with exception to their idols, the Beatles. These days Oasis’s favorite sparring partner is Bloc Party.

Now, Britain’s over the top, flamboyant glam/metal band, The Darkness are going after sensitive singer/songwriter, Chris Martin, frontman for Coldplay.

‘’NME.com’’ reports that Darkness frontman, the never one to mince words, Justin Hawkins ripped into Martin’s work with both the Make Trade Fair Campaign and last year’s Band Aid 20 project, single release, ‘’Do They Know It’s Christmas?’’, which both Hawkins and Martin collaborated on.

Hawkins states about Martin’s charity work ‘’This ‘make fair safe’ stuff he does gets on my nerves. It’s all just a bit cheap’’. Hawkins then goes on to take a dig at Martin during Martin’s Band Aid work, stating ‘’During Band Aid, Chris swanned in, stayed for about 20 minutes…we were there for 2 days and worked our behinds off. He (Martin) obviously doesn’t care. I got the sense he was doing it just to raise his profile’’.

Excuse us Justin, but isn’t that exactly what YOU are doing with your snarky remarks? Trying to raise The Darkness’s profile?

Seeing as how Coldplay sold out their entire 2005 USA and European tours and their newest release, ‘’XandY’’ has gone multi-platinum worldwide, we smell a STINKY Darkness fish.

After all, The Darkness have barely ever cracked the USA market and Hawkins’ timing launching all catty like into Chris seems a little too perfect in that The Darkness just released their sophomore album, ‘’One Way Ticket To Hell…And Back’’, and are surely keeping a close eye on the European, and in particular, the U.S. sales charts.

Bullocks Justin! We think Chris is more than committed to the Make Trade Fair Campaign and he rocked his butt off with Coldplay for the cause at Live 8 as well. If it helps Coldplay’s sales, so what?

No involvement with any charity could possibly cause that many people to run out and buy Coldplay’s new record and concert tickets, especially since both the British press and the American press take hand rubbing, gleeful pleasure in regularly scourging Coldplay.

Just admit it Justin. We mean, we like The Darkness too. But you’re wanking on Chris Martin? Oh, please. Nothing like a little verbal ‘’war’’ to generate, what was that you called it, one more time Justin, raising your profile? Wank, wank, wank all the way home, Mr. Green With Envy! To be continued….

Source:
http://www.nme.com/news/the-darkness/21504

Muse News And Micro Muse November 14, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 14, 2005

Jessica Alba Recreates Movie's Sexiest Roles In British Esquire Magazine!

‘’Jessica Alba Recreates Movie’s Sexiest Roles In British Esquire Magazine!’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 13, 2005

Our luscious honey, the ever so bootylicious Jessica Alba, who we just simply, and absolutely ADORE, strikes so many poses, it would make Madonna proud in ‘’British Esquire Magazine’s’’ Cover Story (Yes! it's available here in the good old USA), for it’s November 2005 ‘’Film Special’’ issue, recreating the ‘’Sexiest Roles In Movie History’’.

Flip inside, through a spectacular photo spread as hottie, Miss Alba gets the total magic treatment, benefit of Esquire’s full makeover, as she dons Hollywood glamour makeup, hairdo, and costumes and is literally transformed into:

Jessie on the magazine’s cover, positively jaw dropping as actress, Ursula Andress’s equally delicious, iconic, ULTIMATE James Bond girl Honey Ryder, with Jessie, like Andress, adorned by nothing more than a barely there, sizzling white bikini and bowie knife from ‘’Dr. No’’, as Marilyn Monroe pouting coyly in ‘’Some Like It Hot’’, as Kim Basinger all hot and bothered in ‘’Nine And A Half Weeks’’, as Jane Russell’s legendary rack falling out of her blouse in ‘’The Outlaw’’, and our favorite…Jessie’s doppelganger dead ringer for the dazzling Natalie Wood, taking it ALL off as real life, legendary stripper Gypsy Rose Lee in ‘’Gypsy’’.

Jessica adds her own side notes to each photo, providing us with insight as to why she chose each actress and each particular film role, and WHAT made it stand the test of time, for us, as an iconic Sexylicious moment in cinema for each actress.

Jessica has been 2005’s poster girl for the sexiest woman alive, gracing the cover of ‘’Rolling Stone’’, as well as many more publications far and wide, and appearing in an array of scorching roles herself throughout this year in a slew of box office bonanzas including, as super power endowed crime fighter Sue Storm in ‘’The Fantastic Four’’, as a bikini clad underwater treasure hunter who crosses the paths of villains in ‘’Into The Blue’’, and YES, we DO have to crow about our favorite too!

That would be Jessie creating her OWN, timeless, iconic slice of sex bomb film history, stealing the show as the beguiling, cowboy hat topped, lasso twirling, leather chaps wearing, stripper with a heart of gold, Nancy, saved from the clutches of a vile rapist/killer by actor, Bruce Willis’s cynical, lovelorn cop, Hartigan, in maverick Director Robert Rodriguez’s scintillating, mesmerizing, film noir, tour de force, ‘’Sin City’’.

Might we add that Miss Alba is quite the acting talent, exuding delightful effervescence, warmth, and charisma in every role she inhabits. We’ve been a fan ever since she first debuted onto and burned up the screen as a black leather catsuited, martial arts butt kicking super hero on the Fox Television Network’s series, ‘’Dark Angel’’.

All we can say is Jessica, you ravishing beauty, you are positively Smokin’!

Source:
http://www.esquire.co.uk/

Muse News And Micro Muse November 13, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 13, 2005

Win Guitar Autographed By Bloc Party From ''The O.C.''! Oh No, What Will Oasis Say!

''Win Guitar Autographed By Bloc Party From ''The O.C.''! Oh, No, What Will Oasis Say!’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 12, 2005

Oasis may be music darlings of the Fox TV Network’s hit night time soap, ‘’The O.C.’’ having their songs, ‘’Champagne Supernova’’ and ‘’Wonderwall’’ luminously covered by Matt Pond PA and Ryan Adams on two of the show’s best episodes, to stellar affect.

But you would have to be living under a rock to not know about Oasis’s bile spewing Gallagher Brothers, Noel’s and Liam’s ongoing feud and split your sides laughing, hilarious war of words with Britain’s Indie band, Bloc Party.

No doubt, the sh*t will hit the fan when Oasis finds out about ‘’The O.C.’’ featuring music by Bloc Party on a recent episode, and in particular, about ‘’The O.C.’s’’ current official website promotion, to win a Fender Telecaster Guitar autographed by Bloc Party’s own Kele and Russell from The Guitar Center.

We await ‘’NME Magazine’’ or ‘’Q Magazine’’ to jump on this NOW, because we just love when they interview Noel and Liam, and the 2 musician brothers never, EVER, miss a chance to slag off Bloc Party. Please, hurry…as we are just salivating to hear what the Gallagher Brothers will have to say about this, and as always, the 2 should be in RARE and biting wit form!

Muse News And Micro Muse November 12, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 12, 2005

Sean Connery Bestowed With American Film Institute Life Achievement Award!

‘’Sean Connery Bestowed With American Film Institute Life Achievement Award!’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 11, 2005

The most venerable, esteemed Bond, James Bond…actor, Sir Sean Connery, will receive the honor of the 34th American Film Institute (AFI) Life Achievement Award. Connery will be presented the award at a star studded gala held in Los Angeles, this June 8, 2006. (June 8, is our own birthday! Wow, what a birthday present! We are SO happy for you Sir Sean!)

We simply adore…the man who put the brogue and kilt in Scotland and made a career of portraying iconic heroes more brave than well…’’Braveheart’’. Who would have thought that the 75 year old Connery, born Thomas Connery in Edinburgh, Scotland, August 25, 1930, and who spent his early years plowing through the drudgery of such labor jobs as a milkman, a coffin polisher, part of the merchant Navy and (oh my!) a nude art model, landing his very first role in of all things, the 1959 Walt Disney children’s fairy tale, ‘’Darby O’Gill And The Little People’’, would become an internationally recognized acting icon and legend.

There may have been many pretenders to the throne since, with more to come, but there is only one actor who fills the Tux of James Bond for most aficionados of the classic film franchise based on the Ian Fleming spy 007 with a license to kill.

That would be Connery, who certainly has a license to thrill, beguiling us with his GORGEOUS, dashing, debonair, sexy, savvy, cavalier, super cool International man of intrigue who bedded the world’s most beautiful women while offing the world’s most sinister villains and saving the world in such Bond classics as ‘’Dr. No’’, ‘’Goldfinger’’, ‘’Thunderball’’, ‘’You Only Live Twice’’, and…even after leaving the Bond films to pursue more challenging film acting roles, Connery returned to portray Bond one more time, in ‘’Never Say Never Again’’.

But, Connery more than proved to be one of the most gifted of the silver screen’s actors, often larger than life, easily gliding from character roles to leading man with ease.

Connery’s first major character role, was in fact his breakout acting role, at last leaving Bond and all critical naysayers behind, proving his acting chops as the tough Irish cop with a heart of gold who stood fearless and stalwart alongside FBI’s Elliott Ness to help take down a blood thirsty, soulless Al Capone in ‘’The Untouchables’’ in 1987. That role won Connery the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. And from there, the rest as they say, is film…history.

What a resume. ‘’The Man Who Would Be King’’, his breathtaking Arabian knights mix of politics and romance in ‘’The Wind And The Lion’’ (one of our favorites with one of Connery’s most charismatic, enigmatic, and landmark roles as the Raisuli!), an aging, cynical yet still idealistic Robin Hood in ‘’Robin And Marion’’, ‘’Outland’’ (a great science fiction re-working of ‘’High Noon’’ with Connery’s outstanding futuristic take on Gary Cooper’s unflinching Lawman standing alone, deserted by the cowardly citizens of a space colony town, to take down a villain), ‘’Marnie’’, ‘’Zardoz’’, ‘’Time Bandits’’, ‘’The Hunt For Red October’’.

More sterling thespian roles were brought to life by Connery in ‘’Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves’’’ (portraying Richard The Lionhearted, a role he was MADE for, imbuing it with unparalleled majesty and valiant, noble regality of the stuff of legends and centuries old mythology), ‘’Indiana Jones And The Last Crusade’’ as the father of actor, Harrison Ford’s Indiana Jones quipping and sparring delightfully, ‘’The League Of Extraordinary Gentleman’’, ‘’Entrapment’’ (still stealing our hearts portraying a sophisticated art thief in love with actress’s, Catherine Zeta Jones 40 year younger character), and ‘’Dragonheart’’ as the voice for the last dragon on earth, Draco, literally stealing the show and pulling our heart strings, just with the sheer power and emotion of his voice, (Connery’s facial expressions were also used for Draco’s image), breathing warmth, depth, and life into a CGI created fire breather who aids the knight, Bowen, portrayed by actor Dennis Quaid to preserve justice and good.

Connery is in an elite league, as past recipients of the AFI Life Achievement Award include: James Cagney, Bette Davis, James Stewart, Gregory Peck, John Ford, Alfred Hitchcock, Steven Spielberg, Martin Scorcese, Orson Welles, John Ford, Sidney Poitier, and Clint Eastwood, just to name a few.

AFI Board Of Trustees Chair, Sir Howard Stringer says ‘’Though best remembered for creating one of the great heroes of all time, his talents transcend typecasting, and his body of work not only stands the test of time, but illuminates a career more extraordinary than James Bond himself’’.

The AFI Life Achievement Award began in 1973 and is bestowed in recognition to certain individuals in the film industry ‘’whose work has stood the test of time’’, and in 1993, the award was further endowed with the significance of being bestowed to ‘’individuals with active careers and work of significance yet to be accomplished.’’

Connery, also received a knighthood, from her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth Of England in 1999.

We want to wish Sir Sean all the very best and our heartfelt congratulations!

We also would like to add, that not too many years ago, this 70 something, dashing rogue with a brogue was voted by ‘’People Magazine’’ as ‘’The Sexiest Man Alive’’, beating out 20 and 30 something studs of the likes of Brad Pitt, Mel Gibson, Jude Law, Tom Cruise.

Sir Sean, you will always be SO sexy. All you have to do is speak and we swoon. As for your acting, you are incomparable and a star amongst stars, amongst the celestial heavens and most deserving of this honor. We bow before this Scottish knight and say, we very much look forward to you continuing to enchant and captivate us further with your most esteemed presence on the motion picture screen. One of your films was ‘’Diamonds Are Forever’’.

We say, Sir Sean Connery, ‘’Dazzle Us Forever’’!

Source:
http://www.zap2it.com/movies/news/story/0,1259,---27233,00.html

Muse News And Micro Muse November 11, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 11, 2005

"The O.C.'s" Cast Members Surf The Waves With New Projects!

‘’The O.C.’s’’ Cast Members Surf The Waves With New Projects!’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 8, 2005

We admit to constantly crowing about how ‘’The O.C.’’, the Fox Television Network’s delicious night time soap, is our favorite show. And so it’s great to see it’s VERY talented cast members receiving their due recognition and branch out into new, challenging, exciting projects besides ‘’The O.C.’’

‘’The Hollywood Reporter’’ reports that our blue eyed Texan BABY, the oh, so sexy, savvy actor, Benjamin McKenzie (aka Ryan Atwood), has just been cast in the major motion picture, ‘’88 Minutes’’ starring the most venerable and esteemed actor, Al Pacino.

Pacino will portray a University Professor, who also works for the FBI as a Forensic Psychiatrist. In the film, Pacino, receives a death threat that he has only 88 minutes left to live.

Ben is cast in the role of one of Pacino’s Grad students who becomes a suspect. The suspense is killing us already!

Just a few months ago, McKenzie received raves in the critically lauded, Indie, arthouse flick, ‘’Junebug’’, his very first feature film role. Way to go Ben!

Our luscious actress, Miss Mischa Barton, (aka Marissa Cooper) valuably used her time off from filming ‘’The O.C.’’ during the summer months to get all hot and heavy with Jedi knight Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader, better known to you as the GORGEOUS and talented actor, Hayden Christensen, her co-star, while shooting the film, ‘’The Decameron: Angels And Virgins’’, on location in Italy. (Buzz was Mischa even may have snogged a bit off camera with Hayden)! Hey who could blame her! Lucky!!!!

Veteran actor, the inimitable Peter Gallagher who portrays the coolest dad in the world, Sandy Cohen, hot on the heels of an ‘’O.C.’’ episode last Season 2 where he showed off his Broadwayesque standard command as a suave, sophisticated, and debonair song stylist, just released this very day, November 8, his very first album, ‘’7 Days In Memphis’’. Can’t wait to hear it Peter!

Also, today, November 8, 2005, ‘’Music From The O.C. Mix 5’’ drops in stores for its release, the 5th in the series of ultra cool music soundtracks from the show, all showcasing some of the best in new bands and music, regularly featured on the show. Mix 5 features tracks by The Subways, LCD Soundsystem, Kasabian, Imogen Heap, Phantom Planet, Gorillaz, Rogue Wave, and The Kaiser Chiefs!

And for more great ‘’The O.C.’’ updates and news, the show’s own fan magazine, ‘’The O.C. Insider’’, previously only available on ‘’The O.C.’s’’ official website, is NOW available as well, nationwide, in most retail book and periodicals stores, including Barnes and Noble and Tower Records.

The current issue on news stands features a great Cover Story/Interview with our 2 favorite O.C. gal pals, actresses Mischa Barton and Rachel Bilson who dish about their roles on the show, and living the celebrity life, from the trappings of tabloids, to getting to wear top designers' FAB high fashion couture!

We also get an insider look at what goes on in the writer’s room, conceptualizing and developing each episode and storyline.

Don’t forget to watch ‘’The O.C.’’ on Fox, Thursdays 8:00 pm EST in the USA.

To everybody involved with ‘’The O.C.’’, we love ya! Keep on rockin the best show ever!

How can you resist a show where anti-heroine/most of the time, Empress bitch Julie Cooper, bankrupt and plug broke, defiantly proclaims to her daughter, ‘’And we will get back on our feet Marissa. And we’ll be wearing expensive footwear when we do.’’

Sources:
http://www.fox.com/oc/features/qotw/304.htm
http://www.zap2it.com/movies/news/story/0,1259,---27192,00.html

Muse News And Micro Muse November 8, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 8, 2005

Billie Joe Armstrong: Artist, Rocker, Political Activist

‘’Billie Joe Armstrong: Artist, Rocker, Political Activist’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 7, 2005

Our gorgeous green eyed rocker, Billie Joe Armstrong of 2005’s band of the year, Green Day, is the Cover Story/Interview of the November 17, 2005 issue of ‘’Rolling Stone Magazine’’.

A fascinating, introspective musician, singer/songwriter, Billie Joe tells his life story, and waxes poetic on finding himself as an evolving artist. Talk about a tale of triumph over tragedy.

One of 6 children, whose beloved father (also a musician, playing drums), died of cancer when Billie Joe was but a ten year old child, he and his siblings were left to fend for themselves when his mother worked as a waitress nearly 24/7, then she married a man that Billie says that he ‘’loathed’’.

Music was Billie Joe’s only sense of hope and inspiration which led him to cross paths with future Green Day musical soulmates/compatriots in arms, Mike Dirnt and Tre Cool. The three became entranced and enamored with punk music for its obvious expression of outrage, defiance, and rebellion at hypocrisy and hopelessness, a musical form known already for taking the piss out of ‘’the man’’ and politics.

Hanging out at the 924 Gilman Street Project, the local club, the fledgling band bonded, already politically informed, dissing the Reagan administration and the greed fueled culture of the corporate 1980’s, honed their musical chops, got signed to a major record deal and became superstars as the growling, snot nosed, middle finger sticking poster boys of the 1990’s with albums such as ‘’Dookie’’, ‘’Insomniac’’, and ‘’Nimrod’’.

The new millennium, however, saw the band, with its members entering into their thirties, start drifting into both a creative and commercial slump, watching new, upstart 20 something bands race past them on the record sales charts and in the public consciousness.

Undaunted, Green Day transformed themselves with a comeback that literally placed them even higher in the music echelon than ever before. Gambling everything by writing, recording and releasing their openly politically pointed challenge to the Bush administration and the war in Iraq with 2004’s album, ‘’American Idiot’’, they showed the world that though in their thirties, they hadn’t lost an ounce of their edge and just how F**king loud they could still gnash their teeth and flip the bird at the Bu**shitters of the day.

But there was a huge difference in the sarcastic ‘’get bent’’ attitude to society of their bratty, weed stoked, early punk years, and now openly articulating their very personal, pissed off stance at, as well as taking on, and raising the public’s awareness and consciousness about the misrepresentation and untruths paved by President Bush about the Iraqi war, to the American public, and to the world, that had proved career suicide for other artists who had previously done so, namely The Dixie Chicks.

Did Billie Joe and company give a F**k? A freackin’ NO with a capital and you can stick that where the moon doesn’t shine was their answer. Punk, or rather rock music itself as Billie Joe says, ‘’should be dangerous’’. Following their muse and expressing outrage like punk and rock have done since the 1960’s and the Vietnam War, they parley their master ‘’shove it’’ to George W. and his manufactured war with venom, spit, piss, and vinegar.

Even the elegiac, epic, sweeping, stunning ballad/rocker, ‘’Wake Me Up When September Ends’’, which Billie Joe wrote about his father’s death, was realized in video form as a scathing and heart wrenching tale of two lovers torn apart when the hero enlists in the military and is shipped over to Iraq, showing the starkly realistic horrors of war, in this case a war America was misled to believe was about, and was bamboozled into, just like Vietnam.

Billie Joe struts through what many are saying are some of the most dazzling live concerts of any band this year, like a pissed off, preening peacock. A show stopping live entertainer and performer who rouses the crowd into singalongs while he and his bandmates tear through their sets and raise the roof off of every venue they play, from the USA to the U.K., becoming International darlings across the pond on 2 continents, winning a Grammy Award, sweeping the MTV Video Music Awards, picking up 7 honors, winning Kerrang’s! Greatest Band In The World Award, and turning in 2 triumphant performances at both the Berlin leg of Live 8 and at a sold out, still talked about legendary gig at the U.K.’s Milton Keynes Arena all during the course of 2005 from the raging flames of ‘’American Idiot’s’’ success and it’s still ongoing resonance with the public.

Slinking and stalking on stage like a rough and tumble alley cat who definitely is king of his turf, Billie Joe, wears his signature black couture, black eyeliner, and red tie, adorned with his ‘’Make Poverty History’’ armband, while cockily parading onstage as warrior, commanding the audience with such acerbic, yet whimsical mockery as stating he’s ‘’George W. Bush..but my friends call me asshole!’’ all while ripping off killer guitar chords and engaging the audience with his charismatic vocals and showmanship.

Billie Joe may be the consummate rocker, but his life, like his music, has purpose and maturity. Though thrilling squealing women in the crowds of Green Day’s concerts by grabbing his crotch and playfully yelling ‘’Somebody please f**k me!’’, he’s a happily married family man for over a decade now to his childhood sweetheart, Adrienne.

Billie Joe Armstrong and Green Day have taken up the mantle of the 60’s music artists/activists that began with Bob Dylan and John Lennon, who paved the way for Bob Geldof, for Bono, and now…a spitting, in your face shredding trio led by an enigmatic man in black who takes on politics the same way that he takes on music, with integrity, grit, passion, and fire and who totally, gives a damn.

That’s why we love best, our rockers of ideals. (Oh, and it doesn’t hurt that Billie Joe is FNG HOT!!!!) And so we nominate, ok, we Award, Billie Joe Armstrong, as our music artist/political activist who best carries forward the torch, of using music to make a difference, all while kicking f**king ass!

Muse News And Micro Muse November 7, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright November 7, 2005

"Star Wars Episode 3: Revenge Of The Sith's" DVD Special Features!

‘’’’Star Wars Episode 3: Revenge Of The Sith’s" DVD Special Features!’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright October 31, 2005

Start lining up at your local DVD retailer, because tomorrow, Tuesday, November 1, 2005 is the BIG day! That’s right, ‘’Star Wars Episode 3: Revenge Of The Sith’’ finally sees its DVD release, but wait…there are TONS of galactic, out of this world, bonus features that make this Director’s cut worth the wait and the price.

The 10/31/2005 issue of ‘’TV Guide’’ and the 11/4/2005 issue of ‘’Entertainment Weekly Magazine’’ report that the DVD features an outstanding commentary featuring master Jedi, George Lucas himself, and the film crew, discussing the political references and cultural significance to the past and current political climate of the entire ‘’Star Wars’’ film franchise.

Lucas also muses on how the rasping, phlegm fueled, hacking, realistic cough of the part flesh, part droid, General Grievous was due completely to it actually being a dubbed recording of Lucas coughing while suffering a spell of bronchitis.

Lucas also lets on that he and the crew had to go back and do more filming, to show Obi-Wan picking up Anakin’s light saber after their climatic duel on Mustafar, because Lucas remembered that in ‘’Star Wars Episode 4: A New Hope’’, Obi-Wan gives Anakin’s light saber to Luke, and that originally, when shooting ‘’Sith’’, Lucas says, ‘’we kind of forgot that.’’

Also, fans are treated to 6 scenes that were deleted in the film’s theatrical release, including: Padme forming the Rebel Alliance with Mon Mothma, Yoda arriving on the planet Dagobah upon his exile, and General Grievous murdering Jedi knight, Shaak Ti.

The 78 minute, bonus, inclusive DVD documentary, ‘’Within A Minute’’ traces a day by day, shot for shot account of a mere 49 seconds of the final showdown, light saber duel between Obi-Wan and Anakin which will surely go down in ‘’Star Wars’’ mythology as THE legendary clash of the titans by light saber.

Also, ‘’Entertainment Weekly’’ reports that at an October 6, 2005 press conference at Lucas’s own California based Skywalker ranch, Yoda, the inimitable actor Frank Oz, Darth Sidious (aka actor Ian McDiarmid), and Anakin/Darth Vader (aka actor Hayden Christensen) all showed up for a dazzling star gazing (pun intended)!

Many celestial spheres were unveiled, including talk of LucasFilm releasing its new video game, ‘’Battlefront II’’ also, on 11/1/2005, and releasing one of the ‘’Star Wars’’ films in 3D by 2007! (of course we still have to wait for the still secretive word of WHICH film that would be, to be publicly issued). But we’ll just have to try and be patient and not have a cow waiting!

We hear that oh, so gorgeous, talented actor, Hayden Christensen has been keeping quite busy since ‘’Sith’’ was completed and released in theaters. Last we heard, he was wrapping up filming ‘’The Decameron’’ with luscious actress, Mischa Barton in Italy.

At the press junket, Hayden also spoke of his work with the ever so talented ‘’Alien’’ kick asser, herself, actress, Sigourney Weaver in the new film, ‘’Awake’’.

But what got everyone both amused and jaw dropped was Hayden’s revelation that he has actually had to take quite some time since ‘’Sith’’ was completed to have the skin on his face heal from the torturous prosthetic makeup applied to him for the scene in ‘’Sith’’ in which Anakin’s face is seared off by the hot lava of Mustafar.

According to Hayden, ‘’Even though they can create this realistic makeup, they don’t have any advanced solution for taking it off. There was screaming involved when they literally peeled it off. They removed a layer of skin’’. OUCH!!

Well, we’ve seen photos of you all over the press lately, Hayden, and we’re happy to report you are all healed and as comedian Billy Crystal’s take on the infamous, always FAB looking actor, Fernando Lamas used to say on ‘’Saturday Night Live’’, Hayden, you look MARVELOUS!

And we’re sure the ‘’Revenge Of The Sith’’ DVD does too. May the force be with you!

Muse News And Micro Muse October 31, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright October 31, 2005

Bob Geldof Bestowed With Nobel Man Of Peace Honor!

‘’Bob Geldof Bestowed With Nobel Man Of Peace Honor’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright October 29, 2005

Hallelujah!! My hero, the most wonderful Irish rocker, artist/social activist, Sir Bob Geldof has been named the 2005 Nobel Man Of Peace!

Sir Bob has been nominated twice for the Nobel Peace Prize both in 1985, and in 2005 for his tireless work on behalf of helping the poverty and famine plagued people of Africa.

We have always shed a tear, feeling our own heart sink just a tad, that Sir Bob has never been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, as he most certainly is more than deserving of the Nobel Peace Prize and should be given recognition for his altruistic work.

Thankfully, even though the Nobel judges didn’t award Sir Bob with the Peace Prize, that didn’t stop the legions of Nobel Peace Prize winners themselves from coming up with their own very special honor to Sir Bob, who has so selflessly given of himself to the poor, famine, and disease ridden masses of the people of Africa for half of his own life, often putting his own life and music career on hold and regularly traveling in person to the dangerous, war torn, plague infested areas of the deepest hearts of Africa to meet with the people who he has given up the better part of his life to help.

Sir Bob has been granted this most auspicious, esteemed title of the Nobel Man Of Peace by a committee of all the living winning recipients of the Nobel Peace Prize, in recognition of ‘’his unflagging work and powerful voice on behalf of the poor of Africa in the last 20 years and in particular, the last 12 months. He has harnessed world opinion to make political leaders act immediately, improving the lives of millions.’’

Sir Bob will be bestowed with this honor in Rome on November 24, 2005 at The World Summit Of Nobel Laureates by Mikael Gorbachev, the former leader of the Soviet Union.

Sir Bob has this to say about receiving this humbling honor. ‘’I am overwhelmed and proud. It’s more than an honor, it’s almost ridiculous. That’s f**king big. I feel weird.’’

Sir Bob, along with fellow musician, artist/social activist, Midge Ure, organized the all star line-up music group, Band Aid, with its charity single record, ‘’Do They Know It’s Christmas’’ and the mammoth 2 continent wide, music benefit concert, Live Aid in 1985, both which raised millions of dollars for African famine relief, and which spurned Sir Bob on, to form the Band Aid Trust. The Band Aid Trust has remained a vital, active force in continually raising global public awareness, and much needed funds to aid the poor and starving in Africa for 20 years.

This July 2, 2005, Sir Bob made lightening strike twice when he and Midge Ure organized the global wide music benefit concert, Live 8, which not only had the same basic goals as Live Aid, but instead of asking the public to pledge funds to aid African poverty, as had been done with Live Aid, Live 8 was staged to raise enough public and political awareness and leverage to bring the issue to the table of the July 2005, G8 Summit.

It was at the G8 Summit, that Geldof hoped that the leaders of the world’s 8 leading western nations would heed Live 8’s initiative and call to arms, which was the monumental voice raised loud and proud by millions of socially conscious aware people around the world, to increase aid to Africa, forgive debt to Africa and many 3rd world nations, and enact fair trade.

Live 8 successfully convinced the 2005 G8 Summit leaders to double aid to Africa to $50 billion by the year 2010, and to grant $40 billion of debt relief (canceling/forgiving debts) for 18 nations worldwide.

Just see what a difference that one person, one voice, one note of music, multiplied by millions of people, millions of voices, and millions of oh, so meaningful and wondrous notes of music can do!

All we can say is we have never been more proud of you Sir Bob! Our heart is busting with joy for you and that you finally are receiving the recognition and respect that you so very much deserve from the Nobel Committee.

We wish you our very heartfelt best and a great big CONGRATULATIONS!
Source:
http://www.nme.com/news/bob-geldof/21371

Muse News & Micro Muse October 29, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright October 29, 2005

"Smallville's'' Brainiac: What IS He Up To?!

‘’’’Smallville’s’’Brainiac: What IS he up to?!’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright October 25, 2005

With actor James Marsters all set to play spine tingling villain, Brainiac for a 10 episode run on ‘’Smallville’s’’ fifth season, we’re salivating to know, just what could this dastardly Kryptonian baddie have in store for our hero, Clark Kent (aka Superman)?

‘’TV Guide’s October 24-30, 2005 issue wonders just that and put that ultimate question to ‘’Smallville’’ Executive Producer, Al Gough.

Gough tells ‘’TV Guide’’ that, ‘’The Kryptonian villain, (played by ‘’Buffy The Vampire Slayer’’, veteran James Marsters), will make his intentions known in both the November 10, and November 17, 2005 episodes.’’

‘’He (Brainiac), tries to trick Clark into doing what he wants. I don’t want to say too much, but there is a smack down at the fortress.’’

We all love you James, but Brainiac is one meanie and nobody messes with our cutie good guy, Clark/Superman. So if the man of steel has to make mincemeat of you, it’s nothing personal. This isn’t ‘’Buffy’’, it’s ‘’Smallville’’ and, we want our Kansas farm boy to triumph over the forces of evil. So prepare for a showdown!

Muse News & Micro Muse October 25, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright October 25, 2005

"Buffy The Vampire Slayer" Complete Series On DVD!

‘’’’Buffy The Vampire Slayer’’ Complete Series On DVD!’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright October 25, 2005

The November/December 2005 issue of ‘’Angel Magazine’’ reports that the entire 7 season series of ‘’Buffy The Vampire Slayer’’, will be released by 20th Century Fox on DVD in the USA, on November 15, 2005.

The boxed set will be a 40 DVD disc limited edition, and include a special, bonus DVD documentary with ‘’Buffy’’ creator Joss Whedon. Each set will be individually numbered and include a detailed, comprehensive book.

As the ultimate ‘’Buffy’’ collector’s dream, each set will in fact include the infamous, one time musical episode of ‘’Buffy’’, ‘’Once More With Feeling’’ for which Joss wrote all of the songs for the cast, AND also, feature a personally signed letter from Joss to his fans!

At approximately $199, you can’t find a better bargain than owning this consummate set to enjoy the complete, collector’s edition ‘’Buffy’’ over and over again!

Now you can relive all of the fangorious, vampire and demon slaying adventures of Buffy and her faithful Scooby Gang, demons, vamps, twists, turns, hot romances and all, and best of all, keep enjoying moments with your favorite ‘’Buffy’’ characters: Buffy, Angel, Spike, Willow, Giles, Faith, Drucilla, Xander, Dawn, Oz, and many more!

So juicy you can eat it with, oh forget the fork. Just sink your teeth into this! (A little vamp humor there!)

Muse News & Micro Muse October 25, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright October 25, 2005

Documentary Captures Magic Of Ultimate "Star Wars" Light Saber Duel!

‘’Documentary Captures Magic Of Ultimate ‘’Star Wars’’ Light Saber Duel’’

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright October 22, 2005

Fans are already waiting with baited breath and anticipation for ‘’Star Wars Episode 3: Revenge Of The Sith’s’’ DVD release on November 1st.

But along with ‘’Sith’’, fans are going to have their socks knocked off by the inclusion of a bonus DVD documentary, ‘’Within A Minute: The Making Of Episode 3’’.

The October 28, 2005 issue of ‘’Entertainment Weekly Magazine’’ gives a sneak peak at the one hell of a thrill ride, documentary, on pages 37-41. The 78 minute documentary, directed by Tippy Bushkin showcases the film wizardry and magic implemented to create one 49 second portion of the mind boggling climatic light saber duel between actor Hayden Christensen’s character, Anakin Skywalker, and actor Ewan McGregor’s character, Obi-Wan Kenobi on the lava planet of Mustafar.

Implementing some 150 interviews and 1,000 hours of film footage, the entire duel sequence is broken down in a play by play, detailed overview from it’s very inception by ‘’Star Wars’’ creator, George Lucas as a written concept, to storyboards, to diorama sets, costumes, makeup on the actors, (including Christensen’s Anakin’s lengthy transformation in the makeup department, to a burned, sizzling crisp by hot lava!), to the set designer’s creation of the molten lava, to live action shots, to CGI green screen and blue screen shots with computer generated effects, to the step by step merging of CGI shots with live action shots, right down to the final Director’s cut, fit for the audience (aka…your approval!).

The photo spread in ‘’Entertainment Weekly’’ features a dazzling preview of some of those amazing images and the enormity of the amount of work, time, and the skilled people involved in the film crew.

The most stunning shots are those of duel, Stunt Coordinator/Choreographer Nick Gillard seen practicing some kick ass martial arts with Christensen and McGregor, followed by the green screen CGI shots laid out, side by side, against the live action shots of Christensen and McGregor merged and completed with CGI imagery right down to the colors of their whirring, legendary light sabers.

Gillard says of the light saber duel, now revered as one of the longest and obviously THE most pivotal, jaw dropping, and stunning in the ‘’Star Wars’’ franchise, that the duel between the two central characters had to be ‘’both precise and emotionally resonant.’’

Bushkin pipes in that, ‘’You’re blown away thinking, ‘Wow, this is what goes into 49 seconds’, and yet I kept thinking, ‘If people could only see everything else that was done.’’

Muse News & Micro Muse October 22, 2005

By Arlene R. Weiss © Copyright October 22, 2005