Pop-Pop Hall of Shame

I felt it was appropriate with this blog to honor something the Bluth's know firsthand, shame. We are all snobs about what we enjoy in the pop culture world so why shouldn't the same apply to what we feel is unworthy? The Hall of Shame should highlight pop culture that not only was awful, but managed to succeed despite the lack of quality and sometimes because of it. This is what separates it from the Razzies. After all, the general public should be ashamed of some of the creations they have chosen to rally behind. This becomes increasingly more relevant as quality music, movies and television (especially this blog's namesake) die out long before they should.

Each Inductee will receive this magnificent trophy:

Tobias Fünke Trophy of Shame

Now on to the inductee. The first choice was a no-brainer. Jim Belushi, for reasons beyond understanding, has been able to make a career out of acting without any discernable talent. His latest and perhaps best known foray into acting has been with the long-running show, According to Jim. The show has long been an unsightly stain on the television industry. The show continues to astound people of any reputable taste as it has lasted 7 seasons and could potentially continue on. If Jim was the only cause of this grotesque display of television then perhaps he would be inducted himself. But there is a gem of a cast that has helped make this monstrosity successful.

We also have to thank Courtney Thourne-Smith who for years has played the most annoying characters on shows like Melrose Place and Alley McBeal. Then there is Kimberly Williams who's biggest acting credit is sadly enough, According to Jim. Rounding out this all-star team of a cast is Larry Joe Campbell whose greatest claim to fame is also According to Jim.

Despite it all of its shortcomings the show has found an audience over the years and has succeeded where so many quality shows have failed. It is hard to say whether this is a failure on behalf of the networks or the American television viewing public. Either way it is a sad display for the state of modern television.

As it is too unbearable to watch for great lengths at a time I will only post links to 2 short clips. Anything more would be inhumane. For evidence of this atrocity click here and here.

So here it is, the inaugural inductee of the Pop-Pop Hall of Shame:

More inductees to follow once I get back from vacation. And all blog contributors are encouraged to induct their own candidates worthy of shame.

'Wannabe' a comeback group?

Hello everyone out there in Blogland. It’s been a while. While summer activities have stymied my ability/time to post on the greatest Pop Culture blog ever, I have the day off today and thought it was a good chance to finally post something. So, here goes…

As many people have probably heard, The Spice Girls have reunited and are preparing for a world tour. Woo…hoo.



Now, I know of at least one person who reads this blog who is (or was) a Spice Girls fan. While I must admit upfront that I did not care for them when they were popular, this announcement intrigues me. Why? I’ll tell you.

I am a nostalgia junkie. Now that the Spice Girls have been out of the spotlight for a while, I can appreciate their music for what it was—fun pop. (Sorry, I didn’t buy into the “Girl Power” message when they were all parading around in bra tops and hooker heels.) At the time they were popular, I think my biggest problem with them was one that continues to get worse with the music industry as time goes on: over-saturation. (William Hung, anyone?) It seemed that, for a long time, you couldn’t get away from them. Their music was constantly on the radio, they were always on TV, and they even went so far as to film a movie. That said, now that I have some distance from their overplayed personas, I can appreciate listening to “Say You’ll Be There” and “Spice Up Your Life” because they take me back to a simpler time in my life (when song repetition on the radio was my biggest problem).

I also wonder if this reunion tour is a good move. I think a fair comparison would be to equate this to the Backstreet Boys “comeback.” As you’ll recall, they were a HUGE boy band around the time The Spice Girls were *the* girl band to watch. BSB, as they were often called, took a much-needed break (for themselves and for the rest of the world) somewhere in the 2001-2002 time frame. For a long time it seemed that the group was gone forever. Then something odd happened…they released a new single in 2005. Even though it was requested often (at least that’s what Wikipedia says), it didn’t make a big impact on the music world. In fact, I think even two years later, a lot of people are still not aware that the group got back together and the Boys are currently working on another album. Was this a smart move? They bowed out at a high point in their fame, and now Backstreet’s back (alright) with, seemingly, not much to offer.



In contrast, I should also point to *N Sync. I was a fan of theirs when they were popular, and I’m not ashamed to admit it. I have never classified them as one of the greatest musical acts of all time, but dammit, were their songs catchy and could they put on a good show. They also stepped out of the spotlight at the height of fame in order to pursue solo projects and other interests. However, they have yet to make a comeback. (I assume it would be difficult now, given all the solo success that Justin Timberlake is having.) Does that affect the way you think about them and their legacy?

Now I ask you, who made the right choice? Was it better to attempt to reconcile the successful group long after the hype and excitement surrounding them fizzled or was it better to let the past be the past and leave it at that? Are The Spice Girls going to burn bright again or will they fade into the background? What do you think?

A final note: While I may occasionally follow what happens with the Spice Girls reunion, I’ll be holding my breath for Ace of Base to come back with a vengeance…

Aw, Rats!: A List Review

Since Pixar’s Ratatouille opens today, the staff at Entertainment Weekly has made a photo list of “12 of our all-time favorite examples” of “adorable, clever, talented, hilarious rodents on film.” It seems these are just general picks, and not in a “countdown” order to the best. To summarize their list, here were their picks:

STUART LITTLE from Stuart Little (1999)
JAQ, GUS, SUZY, AND CO. from Cinderella (1950)
TEMPLETON from Charlotte's Web (1973)
SCABBERS from The Harry Potter movies
BIANCA AND BERNARD from The Rescuers (1977)
MRS. BRISBY AND CO. from The Secret of NIMH (1982)
MASTER SPLINTER from TMNT (2007)
MICKEY MOUSE from Fantasia (1940)
FIEVEL from An American Tail (1986)
BEN from Ben (1972)
BASIL OF BAKER STREET from The Great Mouse Detective (1986)
RODDY AND RITA from Flushed Away (2006)

Many of you who know me know that I love mice. I have been since childhood, it became a nickname, I collect these little Charming Tail figurines… but anyways, I like mice. Especially fictional rodents, be they cute or funny.

So in reviewing the EW list, I see many movies I enjoy. The Secret of NIMH is probably my favorite on the list, with An American Tale, The Rescuers and The Great Mouse Detective to follow.

I never liked Stuart Little—I find the computer animation of his face to be creepy looking. And honestly, I could live without Scabbers, Master Splinter (especially from the 2007 TMNT version), Ben and Roddy & Rita.

Anyways, do I have a point? Indeed I do. I did notice some vacancies on the list that surprised me. I realized that they were speaking of film rodents only, so that disqualifies any television or literary characters.

Still, I was at a loss that they didn’t include The Chipmunks. I mean come on, what about 1987’s The Chipmunk Adventure? How cool is that movie?!

And yes, I admit, I do own it on DVD. Maybe it’s just a childhood nostalgia thing for me, but the Chipmunks (and Chipettes) in general are largely known characters in pop-culture. And they’ve appeared on film, so they should’ve made the list!

However, the other character the list lacked was the most shocking to me. I mean, really, how do you not list Rizzo the Rat? He’s been a character in all of the Muppets' feature films. He was co-narrator in 1992’s The Muppet Christmas Carol, and Rizzo and his family had some great scenes in the diner in 1984’s The Muppets Take Manhattan. Does Entertainment Weekly not remember this scene?

So who’s with me on this one? Thoughts, comments, opinions? Is there anybody out there? *Squeak* Okay, I’ll just go eat my string cheese in the corner.

Classic Music Video of the Week

Who needs a stress-break?

Oooh! Oooh! I do!

This week's Classic Music Video of the Week, brought to you by moustaches, is 1985's Rhythm of the Night by DeBarge.

Now watch closely...whatever you do, don't lose eye contact with El DeBarge! He surely will be watching you, the viewer, intently..."underneath the electric stars"...and cue jazz hands.

Does everyone feel better? Good. I know I do.

Now if you'll excuse me, I need to go get my puffy skirt on and learn those dance moves.

Happy Tuesday.

Celebrity Male Crush of the Month for June

For info on the Celebrity Male Crush of the Month guidelines, go here. Despite the delay, I didn't forget about this month's CMCM. It simply took me a while to decide who to give this great honor. The decision was not easy. Paul Rudd had so much steam going into this month I felt to honor him would be too obvious, although he is definitely worthy. This month's recipient was my choice at first but then I was sold on someone else for a while. At the last minute I felt I should go with my gut and switch back to the original choice. I wanted to honor a man who truly is a Celebrity Male Crush we can all be proud of.

So, without further interruption, I give you the June Celebrity Male Crush of the Month!

Andy Richter

To me, Andy Richter exemplifies the great qualities of CMCM. He has immense talent and his likability factor is through the roof. Let us start first with his personality. What guy would be better to hang out with than someone who actually did that for a living? As the loyal sidekick to Conan O'Brien for 7 years he was great at comedic banter and interjecting interviews with repartee. He would be the perfect choice to kick back and watch some lame television or movies whilst making funny comments.

If his positive qualities ended simply at being witty and a nice guy then he would fall short of this position. However, he used that wit and charm to create a respectable career. Andy enjoys high critical success despite the continued failure of many of his projects. Instead of letting the cancellations get him down, Andy dusts himself off and tries again.

Andy's big break was. of course, his biggest gig to date. On Late Night with Conan O'Brien he was the perfect match for Conan. Their sketches reached legendary status. But a genius the level of Andy can only remain in the sidekick role for so long. At some point he must reach for his own glory. Since his departure in 2000 it has not been an easy road for Andy.

In 2002 Andy scored his first television show as the lead. It was the underrated Andy Richter Controls the Universe. The show relied on Andy's charm and extreme likability and a first rate supporting cast. Unfortunately, as would be a theme with quality television, Fox failed to give the show adequate time to grow a loyal following.

Andy's next big television project was a step backwards. In choosing to make Quintuplets, Andy in my opinion was trying to at last gain that commercial success he had longed for. But he sacrificed quality material for a grab at good ratings. Sadly, for Andy, even this attempt failed to produce positive results. Yet another show of his was axed by Fox.

It is amazing and a true testament to his fortitude that he ever wanted to have his own television show again. Like so often before he decided to give it another shot. He went back to his roots and what works well for him. His newest project would greatly rely on his charm and perceived innocence. It would be his finest work to date. What helped set Andy Barker, P.I. apart was that it also had Conan as a producer and writer. The tag team of O'Brien and Richter were back together to kick ass and take names!

Could it be that Andy's chance at success was finally here? He switched networks to NBC and was again surrounded by a stellar cast, most notably the brilliant Tony Hale. Surely the American public would rise up and see how brilliant this show was. Alas it was not meant to be. Once again Andy is facing uncertainty.

It seems that Andy's career as a leading television man is doomed for failure. We can only hope that changes in the future. However, Andy has found success in one area through the years. He has made cameos in numerous television shows and movies. Although the parts are mainly small they do make an impact and reinforce his ability to inject comedy in any situation. He has been involved in such notable shows as Arrested Development, Strangers with Candy,
Ed and Monk. Upcoming he will have a role in the Will Ferrell comedy Semi-Pro. With luck he will find another television show that matches his talent.

Reality Confessional

It seems common today to hear people complain about Reality TV. How it’s out of control, overdone, etc. While I do semi-agree, there clearly is a market for this medium if people continue watching.

I've found the reality TV shows I’m drawn to are ones that have some sort of incentive or prize. But I think that stems from my love (aka obsession) of game shows. While shows like American Idol and Big Brother are indeed categorized as “reality TV,” I see them as extended game shows that follow the same group of contestants for weeks.

That being said, I do love American Idol. I had barely missed one minute of it until this last season, because none of the contestants appealed to me. But due to its supreme fan base and the juggernaut that it is in the ratings world, I’m not embarrassed to admit I watch it.

What am I embarrassed about? That I've watched every season of The Apprentice. And yes, I know Donald Trump is a giant d-bag. Hell, I even watched the Martha Stewart Apprentice. Complete with the Eurythmics’ Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This) theme song and awkward not-quite-a-catchphrase, “You just don’t fit in.”

I never really liked the celebrity reality shows like Newlyweds or The Surreal Life. I didn't become engrossed in The Real World. I also never was a fan of Survivor, even if that has a prize, or Big Brother for that matter. I don’t know why. I have friends and family who watch these programs, but they never appealed to me.

However, there is another program I have to admit I watched a large chunk of. And it is one I’m extremely embarrassed about. It’s Dancing With the Stars. I refused, refused, refused to watch it in previous seasons. But the perfect storm of 90210-alum Ian Ziering, embarrassingly idiotic boy-bander Joey Fatone and will-her-leg-stay-on Heather Mills (formerly McCartney) couldn't keep me away.

Currently this summer I’m watching On The Lot. Fox keeps stumbling around trying to find how they want to present it. In the beginning it seemed like The Apprentice. Then like American Idol. Now I don’t know what the hell they’re doing or what day it’s even on. But a reality TV show for aspiring film directors I had high hopes for. I’ll keep watching when I can, even if its horrible.

I’m also watching Hell’s Kitchen at the urging of a coworker of mine. While I wasn't fully engrossed, I must admit I get some pleasure out of watching people get yelled at and seeing them cry. It’s horribly mean, but makes me feel better after a day of work.

Come to think of it, maybe that’s the second tie-in of why I watch the reality TV programming that I do. Not only for the contest/game show factor, but I like shows where people are meanly judged. I like Simon Cowell insulting people. I like watching people getting fired. And maybe that’s what I should be truly embarrassed about.

Eager Anticipation

Every once in a while the stars seem to align and a potential film project is given the chance to be something really special. This happens when brilliant pieces all come together to form for the greater good of film. I try not to get myself too excited about films yet to be made but for some it is hard to 'curb your enthusiasm'. The Lovely Bones seems to be the type of film that fits this mold. There is something special brewing.

The first piece of the puzzle is source material:

This book by Alice Sebold is both heartwarming and depressing, full of life and death, joy and sadness that it practically begs to be put on the screen. So, brilliant source material: check!

Then you need a director to helm the project who truly believes in it and has the knowhow to put a fantastic novel onto screen.

Enter Peter Jackson. With his relationship with the Hobbit falling by the wayside it has given him a chance to pursue this passion project which he has talked about for a while. With his previous experience on The Lord of the Rings he knows what it takes to adapt a beloved novel into a classic film.

The source material and director can only go so far without the perfect cast to carry it all out.

Rachel Weisz will be playing one of the main roles in the film, Abigail Salmon. Even though I am slightly biased by my infatuation with her, she is genuinely gifted as an actress and has the right emotional range to portray this grieving mother.

This film is still far from being perfect but it is on its way. The rest of the cast will be very key. But announcing Rachel as the first is surely a good sign. Does anyone know of any other projects that could be this good?

Classic Music Video of the Week

Yes, I know what you are thinking...TWO classic music video posts in a row?! How unoriginal! How tediously redundant! How unorganized!

Well first of all, back off. I haven't had my coffee yet. It is Sunday, so technically it's a new week. But most importantly, it's Father's Day. And in honor of my father, this week's video is Oh Sherrie by Steve Perry. Now before you start complaining about how last week's video was Journey and now this week's is from lead singer Steve Perry, let me explain.

My hilarious father and I were having one of our many ridiculous debates years and years ago. I believe I was trying to argue with him what a unique lead vocalist Raine Maida from Our Lady Peace was. This discussion sparked the classic family quote from my father of, "Steve Perry is the greatest male vocalist...of all time." He continued to add, "Remember that video, where he's sitting on those stairs? When he hits that 'Should've been gone!' that's just the best!"

So Happy Father's Day, to all the fathers and also fans of Steve Perry. Because our love holds on, holds on.

Classic Music Video of the Week

With all the exposure Journey has been getting this week with the Sopranos series finale, I guess this week's classic music video spot goes to them.

And what better video than Separate Ways! The singing into the camera! The invisible instruments! The disgustingly tight jeans! Steve Perry's awesome hair!

Where is this leather-skirt clad woman walking to? She keeps coming in and out of frame. God, I adore her hair too!

I love the over-exaggeration of emotion when all five of them sing into the camera. Hey, isn't that picture familiar? (See sidebar of this blog.)

Journey is amazing. Happy Thursday. Enjoy.

Back Before Whiny Was Cool

Was there ever a song that defined your teen angst or your melancholy adolescence? A song that you adored, playing over and over, scribbling the lyrics in a journal of some form?

Or maybe not. Maybe you were a normal, popular teen who didn’t do weird stuff like that.

But I did. And one of those songs was In The Arms of Sleep by the Smashing Pumpkins, off their (aptly titled) Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness in 1995.

To truly appreciate it you must imagine yourself as a moody 14 year old girl, apparently whining about some boy you have a crush on. And how can you not feel it with exquisite lines like, “Peace will not come to this lonely heart,” “Sometimes a someone is so hard to find” and “Suffer my desire for you.” I mean, wow. Life was sure hard.

Can I lay my sarcasm on any thicker? Man, I was lame.

If you want to hear the album version, here is a cinematic wonder of soap opera clips set to the song. Or you could watch this really visually crappy live performance of the song:

And in the End...

So this past weekend one of the biggest pop culture events of recent memory took place. No I'm not talking about Paris Hilton going back to jail. Although cries of joy could be heard throughout the land with the release of that news. What I'm talking about is of course the series finale of The Sopranos. Regardless of whether you watch it or not, it is hard to recall a bigger water cooler moment in the past 5 years. Just a warning, this post may contain some spoilers. Though I'd be surprised if anyone has managed to get through the day without hearing about it at least once.

One could certainly make a case that The Sopranos was the most influential television show of the new century. David Chase was able to create a frightening yet plausible world that generated a plethora of emotions in the average viewer. He painstakingly pushed the series along after numerous hiatuses. This past weekend was to be the culmination of all the secrecy, death and misery that the family brought upon itself.

I wouldn't say that I'm quite the devotee to the show that many other claim to be. I have allegiances to several other HBO shows over The Sopranos. In terms of dramas I am more partial to Six Feet Under, Deadwood and Big Love. However, I still looked upon this finale with eager anticipation. Like it or not, I had feelings about how I wanted these despicable characters to end up.

Across the internet there were numerous theories as to how Chase would end the show. Many thought there would be a major last battle resulting in the death of Tony and the other mobsters. Others thought Tony would end up in jail or even simpler, end up contemplating ducks as he did in Season 1. In the end Chase decided to go the untraditional route yet again by leaving the last moments up to the imaginations of each viewer.

It is easy to jump to the conclusion that he took the easy way out. Instead of going after the perfect ending, which probably doesn't exist, he gave up. I think that judgment would be too harsh. His choice was bold and although it certainly won't be beloved by many it will forever be talked about in pop culture annals.

So now begins the time where all of us pop culture pundits can reflect and compare this finale to the greatest of all time. Yes this topic has been covered many times and will continue to be by every pop culture outlet in existence. But I figured with the superb knowledge and expertise present here we could bring our own taste to the discussion.

So, with that said, what are the greatest series finales of all time? There are of course the usual suspects, M*A*S*H and Newhart. But I hope that we can try to think a bit outside of the box. Try to come up with some great finales that we might not have thought of. Your choices of course depend a lot on what you feel makes a good finale. People invariably like different types, whether it wraps up the plot points of the show or leaves the viewer with one final cliffhanger.

I personally believe that each show is different. That the finale should reflect the mood and feeling of the show. Some shows should remain a mystery while others require a sense of closure to remain redeemable. As I am a television addict, there are many finales which I have enjoyed and been completely satisfied with. However, it becomes much harder to think of the few I truly loved. I believe that Six Feet Under is one of the greatest finale episodes of all time. What made it so great was how well it fit with the theme of the series. The focus on death and how it shapes life continued to the very end. As a viewer I was left completely at peace with the end of the show, despite my constant desire to see my shows continue.

I also have to add a personal favorite of mine. And I wouldn't be surprised if others here share it with me. The Office Christmas Special for me was and is something to cherish. It was the perfect ending to a show that pushed the viewer's embarrassment to a new level each episode. The characters we had grown to love were allowed to leave with some class.


I am sure that I will be able to think of more that I love as the days progress. I am eager to hear your thoughts on this subject.

DUDE CRUSH SECONDED

A Witness to Brilliance

I debated whether I should post this in here or my own blog. I chose here because although this blog seems to be better suited for lighter fare I suppose material of this substance does fall under pop culture, like anything else. It does seem weird to post about it after Squiggy from Laverne and Shirley. They both are deserving forms of entertainment in their own right but on completely different wavelengths.

Anyways, enough babbling about where I should post this. So who exactly is the lucky guy? Darren Aronofsky is a writer and director of motion pictures. So why would the beautiful, vivacious and talented Rachel Weisz marry this guy from Brooklyn? Well for starters, he is absolutely brilliant. This isn't a new revelation but it just becomes clearer with every film that he makes. I am not the only one who feels this way.

The amount of credibility he has generated from 2 major films has been astounding. And with his most recent and third major production he only enhanced that reputation, at least with me. His two previous works were Pi and Requiem for a Dream. As far as I am concerned Requiem for a Dream is one of the best made films of the past decade. Aronofsky showcased his amazing visual style while delving into the frailty of the human condition.

My basic point for posting this entry is to pay homage to Aronofsky's latest masterpiece, The Fountain. I just watched this film tonight and I felt I couldn't in good conscience let an opportunity to praise it pass by. It was unlike any movie I have ever seen before. That in and of itself is fairly noteworthy. It is visually stunning from start to finish. Aronofsky is a master at creating awe inspiring visuals. The story centers on the connection between life and death and how humans cope with it. He weaves the story in a way that it doesn't lend itself to casual viewing. So, to be honest, it would probably alienate most moviegoers. But like most artistic films, if you put in the effort and focus to understand the underlying concepts then you will be rewarded.

Aronofsky also has a way of bringing out the best in his actors. In Requiem for a Dream Ellen Burstyn delivered an Oscar-worthy performance that to this day is one of the best I've ever seen. In this film Hugh Jackman and Rachel Weisz gave some of the best performances of their careers.

Also, one cannot watch Aronofsky's films without being captivated by the music. Rarely have I heard music that fits a film so well. Aronofsky has used the same composer for all 3 of his major films, Clint Mansell. His work is amazing and completely resonates with the story. His main theme from Requiem for a Dream is still used in film commercials today. It was notably used for the Lord of the Rings trilogy as well. It can be heard here:



He delivered once again with the Fountain, which can be heard here in a decent video made by a YouTuber.



To wrap it all up, I am in awe of Aranofsky's talent. It seems to be once of a generation. He bridges the gap between true art films and the mainstream. He has yet to find true commercial success with his films, but from looking at his upcoming projects it seems as if he has a shot to make it big. It will be interesting to see if he can create something that will appeal to a mass audience without compromising his artistic sensibilities.

Unsung Characters

I've been thinking about posting this topic for a while now. I feel with the wealth of knowledge here people could really come up with some great characters that just get overlooked. Hopefully it can become a regular feature here. With that said, I was leaning a couple of different ways with my inaugural choice. But ultimately I am happy with my selection.

Squiggy from "Laverne and Shirley"

Obviously "Laverne and Shirley" was a classic sitcom. It was one of the many 70s staples that I grew up watching through syndication. It was full of great characters who helped make the show a hit. But of course some get more credit than others. So try to imagine that you are Squiggy. You are up against the two female leads who bring laughs with the best of them. Then on top of that you are partnered with a character played by one of the great improv geniuses of our time.

How could a character possibly compete with that? You become one of the most lovable losers in television history. Squiggy's confidence knew no bounds. Each line was delivered with irreverent delight. And all this despite Squiggy's obvious mental shortcomings. Plus, Squiggy is a hero to men with widows' peaks everywhere, even those of us who lost them due to receding hairlines.

Here is a clip that I find incredibly amusing. It also would go well in Eileen's topic about songs created for television. I find it quite catchy and Squiggy steals the show of course.

Pop Culture Confession

Forgive me pop culture, for I have sinned.

So there’s this movie I like. No, I don’t like it. I LOVE it.

It’s not a "classic" movie by any means, averaging a 4.3 out of 10 on IMDb. This movie was the inspiration for creating the Razzie Awards. It was nominated for six categories and won the first ever for Worst Director.

I can’t help it. I own it. I own the LP of the soundtrack.

What movie is it? Fine, I’ll confess. It’s Xanadu.

What’s not to love? Just think of all the movie has to offer. Olivia Newton-John! Roller skating! Gene Kelly! Greek muses! Electric Light Orchestra! That guy they reference for one second in Kiss Kiss Bang Bang! A random animated love scene!

Seriously though, this movie is pure cheese at its finest. And maybe it’s because it’s a childhood nostalgia thing. I watched this movie countless times with my Mom and sister (my Dad has the good sense to leave the room).

The reason I still cling to it has to be Side B of the LP—all ELO songs. Come on! Classics like The Fall, Don’t Walk Away (featured in the above animated clip), All Over the World, and of course Xanadu. My favorite is I’m Alive.

So go ahead, post your own pop culture sins. If you’re brave enough, that is. I promise I won’t judge you…much.

Classic Music Video of the Week

Not to step on Jill's finely pedicured pop culture toes, I have a video that I feel is worth a look this week.

One band has surprised me with the entertainment factor of their videos: Foo Fighters.

I remember thinking the Mentos parody video for Big Me was hilarious when it came out in 1996, and to this day I can still see Dave Grohl holding up a roll of "Footos."

Or there was Everlong, in which the band weaves its way through two crazy dreams. (Drummer Taylor Hawkins dressed in drag to play Grohl's wife.)

However, one video stands out above the rest for me. It contains multiple, entertaining characters, an easy-to-follow plot line, relevance to the song itself, and even though it was released in 1999, it still to this day makes me laugh out loud.

Sit back, relax, and enjoy my pick for Classic Music Video of the Week:

Learn to Fly by Foo Fighters

YOU COULD BE SWINGIN ON A STAR

Okay so I took a bit of a sabbatical, leaving the blogging behind for like a fortnight or so. But I'm BACK BAAABY! Because the world needs it's TV Moms and Dads of the week. So on with the show. This week's TV Dad of the week is none other than Troy Garland.


Troy of course is on the left in the above picture. Some of you, not as versed in the pop culture of yore may be saying to yourselves, "Wha, wha, wha, wha, whaaaaaaa?!" Yes it appears that there is no person to the right (your left) of Evie Garland, his daughter. Yes, you see Troy is an alien and speaks to his wife and daughter through this weird little neon knick-knack on her nightstand. Not much of dad, you may say, but he did give his daughter the power to stop time, and that's pretty cool. Especially since, we know why she has this power. It's not like Zack Morris' ability to freeze time, which is a mystery to everyone. So there you have it, Troy Garland (voiced by Burt Reynolds), your Pop-Pop (Culture) in the Attic's TV Dad of the week.

Netflix Fatigue

It is safe to say that we all love Netflix. I don't believe I am exaggerating when I say that it has changed my life. What else would you call the ability for an addict to be given unlimited access to their drug of choice? In my case it is movies. I am currently at the level of 5 movies at home at one time. There are definitely points throughout the year when I definitely consider going all the way up to 8.


However, right now that would seem very extreme. You see, I am going through what i refer to as Netflix fatigue. Netflix Fatigue is when your film-watching decreases to a minimal level and thus your queue remains stagnant. You become disenchanted with the choices you currently have at home and this only further perpetuates your lack of viewing. This condition can be brought about by several different factors.


In many instances it is merely a cause of a time crunch. The person simply lacks the time during the week to watch a decent amount of movies. Coupled with that is also the movie length intimidation factor. During a week where you are already exhausted you tend to eye the movie times on your choices more frequently. Even though when at your best you could easily crank through a whole season of Arrested Development, suddenly any movie over 2 hours seems daunting.


For me the biggest cause is the swings of my genre mood. When it comes to music, television and movies I like to partake in different types based completely on my mood. My queue has hovered around the 470 to 500 range for nearly all of my account's existence. When I created the queue I tended to lump certain genres together. I do love dramas, independent and foreign films and they are highly represented there. But, as much as I love them, I definitely go through periods where I just can't bring myself to sit through them. So when I hit those pockets of one genre on my queue, if I'm not in that mood then there is going to be a problem.

Your movies may sit there for a week. Each night you watch something else either on tv or what you own. You tell yourself that you will watch a Netflix movie soon. Pretty soon another week has passed and before you know it you have had certain movies for over a month. At that point you start to contemplate returning the movie without watching it. You tell yourself it just wasn't meant to be and that it can be re-added to the queue for another time.

So what is the big deal with Netflix Fatigue? Well it can cause a waste of money. You are paying a monthly fee and if you aren't watching a good share of movies then you are just flushing money down the toilet. Plus, at least for me, it is a pride thing. I am proud to have over 2,000 ratings. How can I improve upon that number and my overall pop-culture knowledge when I am stricken by Netflix Fatigue? Unfortunately right now there are no known cures for Netflix Fatigue. But with your help we can assure that at least one scientist somewhere will be working on this problem day and night until it is defeated.

P.S. I did create the little Netflix guy after an embarrassing amount of time spent with Microsoft Paint this afternoon. It goes to show that creative impulses don't always coincide with actual talent.

Classic Music Video of The Week

Today marks the beginning of my favorite time of year besides Christmas--our local town's Canal Days. A weekend filled with food, music, craft vendors and of course beer.

So in honor of every mullet-filled townie bar in America, here is this week's Classic Music Video of the Week.

Happy Friday. Enjoy your weekend.