Friday, January 30, 2009

Awardwatch '09: Screen Actors Guild Awards

The winners from last Sunday's SAG Awards:

"Heroes" won an award for Outstanding Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Television Series

"The Dark Knight" won 2 awards for Outstanding Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Movie and Supporting Actor--the late Heath Ledger

"Slumdog Millionaire"-Cast
Meryl Streep-Actress in a leading role in the movie "Doubt"
Sean Penn-Actor in a leading role in the movie "Milk"
Kate Winslet-Supporting actress in "The Reader"

In the TV world,
"Mad Men"-Drama Series Cast
Hugh Laurie-Actor in a Drama Series-"House"
Sally Field-Actress in a Drama Series-"Brothers & Sisters"
"30 Rock" won 3 awards: Comedy Series Cast, 2 acting awards for Tina Fey and Alec Baldwin
The miniseries "John Adams" won 2 awards for its stars Paul Giamatti and Laura Linney

Actor James Earl Jones, voice of Darth Vader, received the Life Achievement Award

American Idol Season 8: Final Auditions in New York City and San Juan Puerto Rico

The last audition episode of Season 8...a tale of two cities: New York City and San Juan, Puerto Rico. The judges found some good ones and hated the bad ones.

Adiola-Gave up her bank teller job to audition for Idol. She sang "Am I Telling You" and failed miserably. She should kept her day job. Simon called her boss and Adiola is back at her job.

Jorge Nunez-20 years old from Puerto Rico. He sang in English and Spanish. Good Voice. Compared to Marc Anthony. Hope he sticks around after the Hollywood round.

Jessika Baier-Traveled from Michigan to tryout for Idol. Won a lot of contests including a Most Beautiful Baby Contest at 8 months old. Her audition wasn't a hit with the judges. She had a hissy fit with the judges. No chance of adding American Idol to her list of victories in contest winning.

Melinda Camille-Bald Head Woman. She dances naked-OMG!! She wants to uplift humanity. She plans to join a nudist colony. She has a good voice and a good vibe. She will do well in the competition.

Jackie Tohn comes from a show business family. She plays the guitar. She could grow in the competition. Unpredictable

Kate Cassidy, Carlos Santos, Antyon Smith, Jasmine James and Mike Perlman-POINTLESS!!

Joel Contrareas-Whacko, Nutcase, Fool, Loser, Annoying, Dressed as an IPOD. Simon hated him! Needs help seriously!!

Nick Mitchell aka Norman Gentle-dressed like a freak. Simon wanted him to be serious but he failed to impress the judges with his audition but to my surprise, he is off to Hollywood. Are the judges out of their minds? He won't last in Hollywood

Ashley Hollster, Kenny Hoffpauer, Kendall Beard-Hollywood Bound!!

Nicole Laraway, Mark Granata, Michael Sconiers-NO SINGING CAREER!!!

Monique Garcia Torres-Brought her 9 year old brother Chris to the auditions. He brought a shell to the judges as a present. Monique is 16 years old and sang a Supremes song "Can't Hurry Love"...She has to sing songs people in her age group listen to. She is off to Hollywood despite the judges criticism of her maturity of her voice.

Alexis Cohen auditioned again after her unsuccessful audition in last year in Philadelphia. Her first audition, Simon and the judges advised her to sing in a band. She returned with a new attitude but her voice is worse than ever. So Alexis, forget singing, girl.

Patricia Lewis Roman closed the auditions with her lovely voice but the judges criticized her for her bad song choice. She sang in Spanish and the judges want to see more of her. She is off to Hollywood and her family came to celebrate with the judges.

26 golden tickets were handed out in New York and 9 in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Next week, Hollywood Week starts...some will triumph and others will falter. Who will get past the judges?

This Sunday at the Super Bowl, Jennifer Hudson sings the National Anthem. Don't miss it.. Kickoff is at 6:28 eastern time

American Idol Season 8: Jacksonville Auditions

The judges continued their search for the newest singing superstar in the U.S.A. in Jacksonville, Florida

Joshua Ulloa-He is compared to Justin Giuarini. Blew the judges away with his rendition of Marvin Gaye's "Let's Get It On". He has great energy. Hollywood, here he comes!

Sharon Wilbur-Brought her dog to her audition. The dog sat on Simon's lap. She has an OK voice. She got to up her game if she wants to beat her female competitors. It's a yes to Hollywood.

Dana Moreno-butchered Chaka Khan. Simon threw her out..thank goodness!

Kansewa F.-16 years old. Her mom is a confidence builder but her audition was terrible. She is not ready for Idol.

Jalesa Valquez-Latina girl; Sang Whitney Houston OK. She has a weird laugh. She won over the judges so she competes in Hollywood

Darrin Darrell-He has good energy entertaining the crowd in the holding room. He upset when his new friend got rejected. His audition was unsuccessful so he got rejected

Naomi Sykes-Her friend likes Randy. She compares to Mariah Carey. Is she crazy? She can't be as good as Mariah. It's a no. The judges consoled her.

Jasmine Murray-16 years old from Starkville, Mississippi. Sang on pitch. Very good singer. She could do well in the competition. Potential finalist

George Ramirez-Physics major in college. In 11 years, a regular job and no singing career

Anne Marie Boskovich-Simon was upset when she didn't dress like a star. She changed her look and won Simon and the judges over. She is on to Hollywood. If she wants to go far in the competition, she has to look like a star

T.K. Hash-auditioned last year and didn't make it. Sang John Lennon's "Imagine". He has a good shot of going all the way if chooses songs that aren't difficult to sing.

Michael Perrelli-plays guitar. Nervous because he can't play his guitar in the audition room. Simon was annoyed after his unsuccessful audition. He was upset and didn't hug his family.

16 contestants from the Jacksonville Auditions will arrive in Hollywood.

Thursday, January 29, 2009

American Idol Season 8: Salt Lake City Auditions

The judges continued their search for the next American Idol in Salt Lake City, Utah, home of last year's runner up David Archuleta and a swimmingful of Osmonds.

David Osmond is one of those Osmonds. His dad Alan has MS and he has MS and has been in a wheelchair. The famous last name Osmond won't score points with the judges. He sang a song made famous by the group Take 6. It was a bad song choice. He should sing songs made by a solo artist but he gets another chance in Hollywood

Tara Matthews-goth girl and has ESP but hasn't got a prayer of winning this competition after her bad audition

Aleesha Turner-NOPE
Katie Sullivan-Hell NO!!!
Rich Kagel-No record deal for him!!!

Chris Kirkham brought along his friend in a pink bunny suit for good luck. The bunny didn't help him at his audition. Simon got a hug from the pink rabbit dude. A grown man wearing a bunny suit! He needs to get a life

Frankie Jordan has a good voice and looks lovely. Possible finalist. She is a mom.

Megan Kokare is a divorced mom of a 2 year old boy. She has a good voice. Different from everyone else. She needs to sing a current pop tune or a tune everybody is familiar with. Simon likes her and she is his favorite. Potential top 12 finalist.

Andrew Gibson lacked soul in his audition. No chance of being a pop superstar.

Austin Sisneros is president of his senior class in high school. He wants to inspire people with his voice. His audition was OK. He chose the wrong song. He sang a song by Raffi?! Come on, dude. Raffi's music is for 5 year olds. He needs to sing a song people his age listen to. Won't last a week in Hollywood.

Jarrett Burns-Watch out for him--he could rock the competition

Taylor Vaifonua-16 year old island girl looks like a clean and sober Amy Winehouse. Best audition and she has a good shot of making the top 12

Rose Flack's story brought tears to my ears. Rose's father died when she was 13 and her mother died when she was 15. She lives with her best friend's family. I like her free spirit and her soulful voice. Simon will remember her. She's off to Hollywood

13 contestants from Salt Lake City are off to Hollywood

Hollywood Week starts next Tuesday

Wednesday, January 28, 2009

DTV Transition

On February 17, 2009..all analog TV stations in the United States are switching to digital.
Your TV may go dark after that date if you don't take action immediately

You can do one of three things:

1)Buy a TV with a built in digital tuner

2)Subscribe to a cable or satellite service

or

3)Buy a converter box for your analog TV set

If you have cable or satellite, you're fine

If you don't have cable and you watch regular TV with rabbit ears, you'll need a converter box to continue watching your favorite shows after February 17

The DTV converter boxes cost between $40 and $70 but the government has coupons worth up to $40 to help fray the cost

You need to act quick or else you'll be missing out on your favorite shows

Please visit http://www.dtv2009.gov/ or http://www.dtvanswers.com/ for information on getting your DTV converter coupons

Thursday, January 22, 2009

American Idol Season 8: Louisville Auditions

The search for the Season 8 American Idol winner continues in the home of the Kentucky Derby--"The greatest 2 minutes in sports". Louisville, Kentucky is the next stop on the audition tour. The auditions were held at Churchill Downs. Who cross the finish line to Hollywood and who will fall short.

Tiffany-Her career options: Singing Career or College. Her audition was bad so her career move is college. I won't be buying her CD. She was upset and angry

Joanna P.-When she was 16 years old, she went out on her own to Hollywood. She is struggling to break into the music business. Once recorded for A & M Records. She has a good voice so American Idol might be the break she has been looking for. You'll see her again in the Hollywood round.

Mark Mudd, Jr.--Dressed like a cowboy and sang a George Jones about moonshine. Surprising facts: he almost died 5 times and a descendant of Daniel Mudd who healed John Wilkes Booth, Abe Lincoln's assassin. Has plenty of bad luck and thanks to the judges more bad luck. As he was leaving the audition room, he nearly threatened the judges.

Brent Keith Smith-A traveling musician, he has a rocking voice. He definitely belongs on this show.

There were four singers who were so bad--their friends and family were embarassed to watch them on television. Obianjuju O., Wil Heuser, Ryan Benninger, and Patrick who was a big man and sang Michael Jackson very bad

Matt Giraud-He is a dueling piano player and plays by ear. I can play piano by ear. He reminded me and the judges of Elliott Yamin from Season 5 because he has a different sounding voice like Elliott. I expect him to do well in the competition

Ross Bradley aka "Super Nerd" is fluent in Chinese but not very good at singing. He sucked big time at his audition. He sipped Paula's cup but the judges rejected him.

Alexis Grace is a Memphis girl so I want her and Lil Rounds to do well in Hollywood so I can vote for them. Alexis is a mom and has a very rocking and soulful voice so I can see her in the top 12 even top 10 and maybe the final 4.

Aaron Williamson has way too much energy at his audition. Too much caffeine, dude. He shouted the song at his audition so Simon hated it and sent him packing for home.

Rebecca Garcia was on the Louisville FOX station's morning news show and hails from the home of country music, Nashville, Tennessee. She was voted "Most Humorous" in high school. She sang Carrie Underwood's "Before He Cheats". No one can sing that song like Carrie. No musical career in her future.

Kris Allen-YES
Felicia Barton-YES
Ryan Johnson-YES
Shera Lawrence-YES

Finally, LaNeisha Young's emotional really touched me. When she was a child, her family was homeless and broke. She is determined to make money to help her family. She sang a song she wrote. She is very good. She has a chance of winning the competition.

19 people from the Louisville auditions are heading to Hollywood

Tune in Next Week for auditions in Jacksonville, Florida

American Idol Season 8: San Francisco Auditions

The second week of Season 8 auditions lands us in San Francisco--The City by the Bay. If you remember, the judges found season 5 runner up Katherine McPhee and the funniest auditioners of all time--season 3's William Hung who has gone on to a successful recording career. Oh good grief!?

The judges hoped to find some San Franciscan talent and possibly a winner.

Tatiana-She hails from Puerto Rico--she should have auditioned in her home country cause Idol held auditions in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Has a contagious laugh. She sang an Aretha Franklin song. She has a very good voice but she needs to work on her personality. 3 of the judges liked her. Hollywood here she comes!! Simon said NO!!!

Nick Reed-Beat boxed--NO--Idol has already had a beatboxer--Blake Lewis, Season 6 runner up

Jiayi Yu-Blah!!...No chance of a singing career

D. Anthony Bradford must have missed three decades of fashion with that plaid 1974 jacket and sideburns. Simon hated the coat. Not right for "Idol"

Jesus Valensueza is a father of two kids. His kids coaxed him to tryout. Shame on you, kids. Their father hasn't got a prayer of winning the show but the kids came into the audition room and changed the judges' minds so he is through to Hollywood. He is capable of better.

Dalton Powell--Can master a Rubik's Cube which is to me a very difficult puzzle to master. He has no chance of netting a record deal

James Smith--HELL NO!!

Aquilla-Biology student has diagrams of a larynx and a trachea. She sang an original song she wrote. Failed miserably at her audition. Simon called her belligerent. I agree with Simon. You should become a doctor instead of a singer.

John Twiford-Yes
Allison Iraheta-Yes
Raquel Horton-Yes

Annie Murdock-plays piano and violin and can scat like Ella Fitzgerald. She was weak at her audition. She oversang the song. So it's no Hollywood and Idol dream for her

Adam Lambert-was in musical theater despite Simon calling his audition theatrical. He is the most diverse singer. Luckily he lives in Hollywood so he gets to compete at home.

Finally, another emotional story, Kai Calumba plays music at night while taking care of his mom during the day. His mom taught him to sing. He sang "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes" and he has a good chance of making it past the Hollywood round if he steps his game.

It wasn't much of a success--12 people in San Francisco auditions are heading to Hollywood.
What's up, San Francisco--isn't there any talented people in the Bay City

Next time, the auditions head to Louisville, Kentucky

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

January 20, 2009-A Day That Will Forever Live On In American History

Well, folks, this is one day that all of us will never forget. We witnessed history in making as Barack Obama is sworn in as our new president. This is a first for this country. A black president is sign that change is coming to America. President Obama promises that our economy will be stronger than ever before. President Obama has got two wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and a sluggish economy to deal with. We hope that he will get America back to its glory. His speech caught the attention of millions of people in Washington, D.C. and millions around the world. I was at home watching it on TV. I am with Obama that all of us have to work together to make a better America. Aretha Franklin sang "My Country Tis of Thee" and sang beautifully. The Obamas are settling in to their new house. Sasha and Melina are sleeping in their new bedrooms.
Barack and his lady are having a good time before starting work tomorrow. I will remember this day forever as long as I live. The inauguration ceremony went off without a hitch. Everyone will remember this day in their memory for generations to come

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

American Idol Season 8: Kansas City Auditions

Night 2 of the eighth season opener finds us in Kansas City, Missouri-the hometown of last year's winner David Cook. We saw his parents and it was fun seeing them again and were still gleaming with pride about their son winning Idol. Another unexpected appearance is last season's finalist Jason Castro. He ruined Bob Marley and Simon didn't like him. He has a brother named Michael. Here's hoping that another Castro gets into the finals of American Idol.

The Contestants:

Chelsea Marquat-Simon told she sounded like a cat jumping off the Empire State Building and the siren still going off. There's no way she will have a singing career.

Ashley Anderson-sang Leona Lewis' "Footprints in the Sand" which was written by--can you believe it? Simon Cowell!! The many talents of Simon Cowell. Ashley has a pretty good voice so she is off to Hollywood

Kasey Carlson has an unusual job--Bubble Tea Maker. She is the one to watch for.

Brian Hadler-butchered a classic by Aretha Franklin--No dice

J.M. Avance--NO NO NO

Billy Vinson--NOT A CHANCE

Chris Jones--LOSER!

DeAndre Hopkins-Disrespected a beloved spiritual, "Amazing Grace" but we are grateful that he won't be voting for him

Von Smith--Powerful voice!!!--He could blow away the competition--One of this season's front runners.

Michael Castro (Jason Castro's brother)-has pink hair, began singing 20 days before audition, Simon called his audition "goodish". He's off to Hollywood and hope to follow in his brother's footsteps

Vaughn English-What song was he singing?....NOT RIGHT FOR IDOL!!!

Matt Brightsky-He is a welder and father of a 3 year old boy. He has soul. His son will look forward to see Daddy go all the way

Jasmine Joseph-Her nickname is Jazz. She will be forgettable.

Jessica Page Furnee-lives in Kansas with her 93 year old grandmother. Sang a Janis Joplin tune. She rocked it with the judges. She is a standout and could have a shot of making the finals. What a birthday present for her...auditioning for American Idol and passing with flying colors. She's off to Hollywood

Sisters Asia & India rapped a song for Randy. Asia is not ready for Idol but her sister India has good tone in her voice so she moves on to the next round and Asia stays home.

Best Friends Jamar Rogers and Danny Gokey tried out for Idol. Jamar sang "California Dreaming" and oversang the song. The judges liked them but Paula advised him to control his voice. He goes to Hollywood. Danny Gokey was too emotional and sad to talk about his ordeal. His wife passed away and he thought of not going to the auditions. He is brave and tried out and won the judges over with his soulful voice. Another front runner.

Anoop Desai has a soulful voice. Randy liked his "crazy vocals". He needs to work on his stage presence. Noop Dogg goes to Hollywood.

Andrew Long went way overboard bringing cheerleaders to the audition room. He has a soulful voice but the judges called him theatrical and told him he should in musical theater. His dream was crushed.

Asa Barnes is a middle school band director and a father of a 4 year old girl. Sang Michael Jackson very well. Here's a tip to future Idol contestants: don't sing Michael Jackson songs at the auditions. The judges loved him so we will see him in Hollywood

Michael Nicewonder is related to Hank Williams, Jr. For real? His mom doesn't think that he can sing. The judges after hearing him doesn't think either. He won a medal in 5th grade for best vocal in music class...his music teacher made a mistake. He'll never flourish in the music business. I agree with the judges that he should write cards for Hallmark.

Dennis Brickham dreamed about getting good praise from Simon. He sang a Chris Brown but it did not bode well the judges. I'm shocked that he got through to the next round. He won't make it past Hollywood week

Mia Conley was confident but pitchy. Not Idol material...so no chance of being a star for her. Got upset at the judges

The last contestant hails from my hometown, Memphis and her apartment was torn to pieces by a tornado. Her name is Lil Rounds and she is a mother of 3 kids. She has a good voice. The judges loved her. She is a mix of Fantasia and Mary J. Blige. I want her to win the show. It is about time that Memphis has an American Idol winner that we can be proud of. We will see her again.

26 people from the Kansas City Auditions are headed to Hollywood.

The auditions continue on Tuesday.More Idol? Visit http://www.americanidol.com

American Idol Season 8: Phoenix Auditions

The No. 1 show on television is back with a fourth judge, songwriter Kara DiGuardi. The three other judges return---the "dawg"-Randy Jackson, the compassionate one-Paula Abdul and yes, friends, the "dream crusher" Simon Cowell. Season 8 promises to be the best one yet. The search for the next Idol starts in Phoenix, Arizona, home of Season 6 winner and pop superstar Jordin Sparks.

The first one to see the judges was Tuan Nguyen--he sported a big afro and tried to become the next King of Pop. Unfortunately, the judges didn't like his audition so his trip to Hollywood is cut short. Michael Jackson's reign as the King of Pop is still intact

Emily Hughes is a singer in an all girl band. She didn't tell her bandmates that she is trying out for "American Idol". She sang Heart's "Barracuda" and blew away the judges. She is the first one to go to the Hollywood. She has a good booming voice. Her problem: her band is planning to tour Europe. How will her band take the news she could become the next American Idol. A dilemma

Randy Madden looked like a 40 year old rocker and wanted to get into showbiz. The judges felt uncomfortable and Paula told him to try singing in a band to gain experience. It is no for Mr. Madden

J.B. Afhua sang season 2 winner Ruben Studdard's "Flying Without Wings". He got the chops but has to work on relaxing his nerves and having fun. He got a golden ticket to Hollywood but will he go far beyond Hollywood week?

Michael Gurr sang a Carrie Underwood song and didn't fare well with the judges. No dice for him but he passed out as he was leaving the audition room.

Will Kunick--Hell No!!!

D.J. Bradley--Not a cat in hell's chance to being a recording artist

Shawn Vasquez-Don't get me started!!!

Andre Caraway (nickname "X-Ray")-No way I'm not buying his CD

Arianna Parr-sang well and I see her potential to go all the way-Yes from the judges

Elijah Scarlett-has a deep voice--not a chance to become the next Barry White but the judges gave him career advice of voice over work in monster movies. Elijah, you should be doing that!!

Lea Marie Golden arrived at the auditions dressed up in pink and she is a huge fan of the new judge Kara DioGuardi and she is quite a songwriter in the making--she wrote over 100 songs but when she sang, Simon found her to be annoying so NO CHANCE OF WINNING IDOL

Stevie Wright-Her mom is a huge Stevie Nicks fan--whe she sang, I think that she could grow in the competition so we will be seeing her in Hollywood

Michael Sarver has the most dangerous job in America--he works in an oil rig. He is a big man and has a family (wife and 2 kids). The judges love him so they will see him in Hollywood. Way to go, Michael!! Who knows? Maybe he will quit his job at the oil rig

The auditioner we saw in the preview, "Bikini Girl" arrived in a bikini thinking the judges will put her through to the next round. Her real name is Katrina Darrell. When she arrived to face the judges, Simon acted like a dirty old man. The girls were against her going through. Kara gave her a demonstration of how the song should be sung. Bikini Girl insulted her. Luckily, Paula intervened. She surprisingly got through to Hollywood. But there's no way in hell that she'll make the top 36. If she does, America, don't vote for her. She made out with Ryan.

Eric Thomas-has a nickname of "Sexual Chocolate" and his mom promised a new car if he doesn't get a ticket to Hollywood--the judges said "NO" and he got a car!!

Brianna Quijada-She was nervous throughout her audition but she won the judges' respect. She needs to control her nerves if she wants to be an Idol

Deanna Brown-Good voice-the new Kellie Pickler--she is Hollywood bound, actually she lives in Los Angeles so she'll be home--Her mom was happy even though she wasn't there in person

Cody Sheldon-huge horror fan and makes his own horror movies; his voice was enjoyable to listen to; I could see him as the next David Archuleta. He goes to Hollywood. If the singing doesn't work out, I may suggest that Cody should go and make horror flicks in Hollywood.

Alex Wagner Truckman-He looked like a geek but has a good voice. I don't know if he's got something special to go far in the competition. He insulted Simon and made fun of England's national anthem "God Save The Queen". He got through anways

The last contestant has a story that will touch you and inspire everyone. Scott McIntyre was born blind and is vision impaired. He plays piano, writes songs and is quite a good dancer. The fact that he started college at 14 years old surprised me. He is ultra smart..lol. After listening to him sing, I have a feeling that he could be a finalist. This goes to show that you can't let a disability stop you from reaching your dream.

Overall, 39 contestants are heading to the next round.

Next stop, Kansas City, Missouri, home of your reigning champion David Cook

Want more Idol? Go to http://www.americanidol.com

Monday, January 12, 2009

Awardswatch '09: 14th Annual Critic's Choice Awards

Last Thursday, the Critics' Choice Awards were handed out. The critics choose the winners.
"Slum dog Millionaire" won 5 for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Composer, Writer and one of its stars, Dev Patel won for Young Actor/Actress.

"The Dark Knight" won 2 for Action Movie and Supporting Actor--the late Heath Ledger. The audience was on their feet. Sean Penn won Best Actor for his role in "Milk" and his movie won for Best Acting Ensemble. There was a tie in the Best Actress category: Anne Hathaway for "Rachel Getting Married" and Meryl Streep for "Doubt". Anne Hathaway and Meryl Streep starred together in "The Devil Wears Prada".

Kate Winslet won Supporting Actress for her role in "The Reader". She has a good shot at winning an Oscar. "Wall-E" won for Best Animated Feature. The robot is very hilarious...kids and adults love him. "Tropic Thunder" won for Best Comedy Movie...the critics were laughing Robert Downey Jr.'s portrayal of a black man and Tom Cruise's role of an obscene movie executive. HBO's biopic on President John Adams won Best Picture made for TV.

The Joel Siegel Award went to Richard Gere. The ceremonies were broadcast on VH1

Awardswatch '09: Golden Globe Awards

Last year's Golden Globes ceremony was canceled due to the writer's strike. This year, the Golden Globes are back and the stars came out in full force. Some stars arrived on time and others came fashionably late. Kate Winslet won the night's first award for Best Supporting Actress in a Movie and her acceptance speech ran over five minutes. Of course, the audience was so noisy that the presenters asked them to shush at least five times. Bruce Springsteen won his first Golden Globe for his original song "The Wrestler" from the movie of the same name. Springsteen will rock the Super Bowl Halftime Show February 1st on NBC.

This year's Miss Golden Globes is Rumer Willis, Demi Moore's daughter. Demi Moore is happily proud of her little girl. The HBO movie "John Adams" won some Golden Globes including Tom Wilkinson for Best Supporting Actor in a TV Movie, Laura Linney for Best Actress in a TV Movie and Best Mini Series or TV Movie. Another HBO show "True Blood" won for Best Actress-Anna Paquin. The Disney/Pixar film "Wall-E" won Outstanding Animated Feature. Sally Hawkins got her props for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy Movie for her role in "Happy Go Lucky".

"30 Rock" rocked the Golden Globes with 3 wins including Best TV Comedy and its two stars, Alec Baldwin and Tina Fey for Best Actor and Actress respectly. Best TV Drama series was AMC's hit drama series "Mad Men".

The night's poignant moment was the late Heath Ledger's win for Best Supporting Actor in "The Dark Knight". The audience stood up and there was not a dry eye. The movie's director, Chris Nolan accepted on behalf of Ledger. He will never be forgotten.

Kate Winslet won another award for Best Movie Drama Actress in "Revolutionary Road". She was tear eyed and thanking everyone including her husband and children.

It was much to my surprise when the Best Movie Actor went to Mickey Rourke for "The Wrestler". He looked a bit different from all of his classic movies years ago.

The shocking moment of the night went to presenter Sasha Baron Cohen, thank goodness--NO BORAT, he is so annoying!!!. His comments got the audience booing for him.

The big winner of the night was the independent film "Slumdog Millionaire". The made in India film that a few people had heard of won 4 Golden Globes including Best Movie-Drama, Best Screenplay and Best Original Score-Motion Picture.

The Jonas Brothers presented an award without any screaming fans. For once, they appeared on a diginified awards show. NBC News veteran newsman Tom Brokaw graced the Golden Globes stage and discussed one of the nominees for Best Picture-Drama "Frost/Nixon". He was there in 1974 when Nixon resigned from office after the Watergate scandal and left the White House.

The Cecil B. DeMille award went to Steven Spielberg. His good friend Martin Scorese saluted his pal with clips from his great movie masterpieces like "Jaws", "E.T.", "Schlinder's List" and "Jurassic Park".

That's it for this year's Golden Globes.

The Oscar nominations are announced January 22.."Slumdog Millionaire" may get some Oscar nods including Best Picture

Thursday, January 8, 2009

Hot Buzz

Hey everyone, I started a blog titled "The Hot Buzz"

Be sure to check it out at http://thehotbuzz.blogspot.com

A blog focusing on the hottest celebrity news and even "American Idol"

Leave me comments and ask me any questions and I'll answer

Tell your friends

Awardwatch '09: People's Choice Awards

The start of the new year signals the start of awards season. This Sunday, it's the Golden Globes but the People's Choice Awards started the 2009 awards season last night. Last year, the writer's strike ruined the yearly tradition of celebrities walking the red carpet, screaming fans and thank you speeches. Queen Latifah returned as host of the show. As you know, the People's Choice Awards is one of the few awards shows where fans choose their favorites in tv, music, and movies. I'm glad it's back in all its splendor. The celebrities showing up on stage to thank their fans and God. Queen Latifah was dressed up in purple which it is not bad for a plus size chick. The crowd chanted "Yes We Can" as a reference to President-Elect Barack Obama's campaign slogan. Adam Sandler was in the crowd as well as Robin Williams. Can the people be entertained? Yes, they can and they were. Hugh Laurie ("House") is in the audience and even Kid Rock is in the audience and he didn't curse. The first award was supposed to be presented by Kate Hudson but she was stuck in traffic causing her to be late. Ellen Degeneres luckily stepped in to present the first award of the night. Favorite Funny Male Star is the category and Adam Sandler won the award. Sandler currently stars in the family movie "Bedtime Stories".

In case you didn't know, the PCAs and People Magazine are celebrating their 35th anniversary and a special category was created for this occasion. Favorite Star Under 35 is Carrie Underwood..hopefully she will look hot at age 35. She sounded good when she sang and her fans are still crazy for her since she won American Idol in 2005 and she won 2 PCAs...Favorite Female Singer and Favorite Country Song. Reminder: American Idol Season 8 starts this Tuesday. Let's hope this year's winner will sell more records than Carrie or other Idol champions.

Speaking of Idol, Shemar Moore of "Criminal Minds", Idol's competition on Wednesday nights suggested that you TIVO his show and watch "Idol" to make him happy. Idol was one of the nominees in the Favorite Reality Show category. The winner was "Dancing with the Stars". I guess Cloris Leachman influenced the vote. Season 8 starts in March and no Cloris thank goodness. Ellen Degeneres ruled the "Favorite Talk Show Host" category over David Letterman and Regis and Kelly. No wonder her show is funny. She is married to a woman hello?! I thought California had banned same sex marriages.

A new category called "Favorite Combined Forces" has to do with musical duets. The winner was Jordin Sparks and Chris Brown's duet of "No Air". Chris Brown was also won the award for "Favorite Male Singer". Ladies, Chris Brown is one sexy dude, don't you think. Jordin Sparks accepted the award and thanked her fans, family and even Idol..

It was happy to see Dakota Fanning grown up to a beautiful young lady. She is in high school and luckily for us staying away from the wild parties, drinking and drugs. She has been acting since she was since 7 years old and will soon be seen in the new movie "Push". Her recent movie "The Secret Life of Bees" won the award for "Favorite Movie Drama".

The Favorite Movie Comedy award went to "27 Dresses"...boo!!!! I wanted "Mamma Mia" to win because Meryl Streep sang like a songbird. She should record a CD. Katherine Heigl accepted the award as well as celebrating her 1st anniversary with her husband Josh...don't know his last name. Reese Witherspoon beat Angelina Jolie for Favorite Female Movie Star. Her movie, "Four Christmases" was a hit at the box office before "Marley & Me" ruled the holiday box office. 90210's sexy mavens Jennie Garth and Anna Lynne McCord, whom I have a crush on, announced the winners in other categories that didn't fit into the show. Starting Tuesday, 90210 vs. Idol-tivo one and watch the another.

Favorite Family Movie-Wall-E
Will Smith won 2 PCAs-Big Willie is still the man
The people like Alicia Keys' "No One" as Favorite R&B Single
Favorite Leading Man-Brad Pitt
Favorite SCI-FI Show-"Heroes"
Favorite Leading Lady-Kate Hudson (p.s.: her new movie "Bride Wars" opens this weekend)
Katy Perry and her controversial song "I Kissed A Girl got recognized at the awards...you people have no taste in music

"Deal or No Deal" won for favorite game show
Kyra Sedgwick of TNT's "The Closer" won the Favorite Diva
Flo Rida's "Low" won Favorite Hip Hop Single...that's crunk
Tina Fey continued to get some love from fans as "Favorite Funny Female"...Her Sarah Palin impersonation on SNL during the election was funny...More Palin sketches on SNL, please

In their 20th season on the air, "The Simpsons" was named Favorite Animated Show
Kid Rock's ultimate summer rock anthem of 2008 "All Summer Long" won the Favorite Rock Song award. That song was requested more times on radio in 2008. My surprise winner of the night was Hugh Laurie of "House" for Favorite Male TV Star and his show won Favorite TV Drama. It moves to Mondays at 8pm/7 central before "24" starting January 19 on FOX.

The Favorite Female TV Star award went to Christina Applegate ("Samantha Who?"). She thanked her fans for supporting throughout her cancer crisis. She is 100% healthy and cancer free.

CBS had a good night...its two new hit shows won Favorite New TV Comedy and Drama...The Mentalist and Gary Unmarried. Jay Mohr is the man!!! His wife is one hot fox...Nikki Cox. In addition, its Monday hit show "Two and a Half Men" won for Favorite TV Comedy.

Rascal Flatts performed a medley of all their hits and the crowd loved it. The group has a new album coming out in April...watch out for it.

Kate Hudson finally arrived at the show explaining to the crowd that she was celebrating her son's birthday. His name is Ryder....Happy Birthday to you, Ryder!!!

To close the show, "The Dark Knight", the most buzzed about movie of 2008, won 5 PCAs including "Favorite Cast", "Favorite Superhero" and "Favorite Movie". The acceptance speech was emotional for the cast because it was dedicated to Heath Ledger's memory. Congrats to all of the winners!!!

I was happy to see Marisa Tomei at the awards show especially her new film "The Wrestler" marks the return of Mickey Rourke...I smell Oscar contention!!!

I was shocked to see Paris Hilton in the crowd...happy she wasn't nominated for any awards
Britney Spears was nominated for Scene Stealing Favorite Guest Star...Her guest stint on "How I Met Your Mother" lost to Robin Williams' performance on "Law and Order: SVU".

In closing, I want to send my prayers to John Travolta and his family for the loss of their son Jett died at a very young age of 16. It is a sad reality for any parent to lose their child at a young age. The private memorial service was today. So young Jett is in heaven now.

Before I sign off, I want everyone to check out the People's Choice Awards website: http://www.pcavote.com/

You can vote...let your voice be heard!!
That's all for now...I'll be watching the Golden Globes this Sunday and bring you a report on the Golden Globes on Monday

Have a good weekend!!!