2013: A Year in Review

Another year is over. I know, it seems like it just started, right? But here we are, ready to look back at the stories that made 2013. Here are my top 10 news stories, once again compiled by the monkeys in my head.

Let’s begin!

Nostalgia Nook: Love, Actually

Yes, I know I did Love, Actually already. But it’s been ten years. TEN YEARS! Time certainly flies. Let’s see how it’s withstood the test of time.

SPOILERS! are all around.

Smash: Bring Down the Curtain

Last time on “Smash:” Sam learned Ivy was preggers! Derek did not! Tom was obnoxious about the Outer Circle Critics awards! He annoyed Patrick Dillon, a hot actor who may or may not be gay! Jimmy is worried Kyle won’t get a Tony nom! But then everyone pretty much got a nom! Time for the Tonys!

SMASH!

We start with…someone misspelling Anjelica Huston’s name as “Angelica.” Way to go, show! Anyway, the cast sings “Under Pressure” as they walk around New York City to get to the Marquis Theater which is hosting the Fake Version of the 67th Annual Tony Awards.

The Thanksgiving House

It’s the Countdown to Christmas on Hallmark! Holiday movies galore! White Christmases as far as the eye can see! Secret Santas around every corner! So many decorated trees it can fill a forest! Oodles of cookies that make you think you’ve gained the holiday weight just from watching these movies!

But Hallmark doesn’t forget that there is a holiday that comes before Christmas. Last year, they aired “Love at the Thanksgiving Parade.” This year, it was “The Thanksgiving House.”

Put on your buckled hats and prepare for SPOILERS!

Nostalgia Nook: Passions

Soap Operas. You know I watch them. And I think it all started with Passions.

My Nana started watching Passions first. And she told my sister and I about it. My sister didn’t really give it much thought until she watched it with my grandmother one day. Then I volunteered at my school’s convent for a week one summer. There was a TV in the room but it only got the broadcast channels. So I decided to give Passions a try.

Breathe In, Breathe Out, SPOILERS!

ANTM: Who Will She Choose?

Last week: Tyra psyched us out and only had the two photo shoots. But first we learned nobody really liked Jourdan as only Chris supported her. But then money lured Mike to switch alliances from Cory to Jourdan. As the final three prepared to walk in the final runway, the judges appeared. Someone was not walking as a finalist. Who will it be? Marvin, the janitor’s son who cried at the drop of a hat? Jourdan, the young woman who didn’t endear herself to her fellow models? Cory, the androgynous model who Rob wanted to be more masculine? And who will ultimately be America’s Next Top Model? Find out!

Top Model!

ANTM: Where Do You Put Your Support?

This cycle on America’s Next Top Model: THERE WERE GUYS! Marvin had no game until like last week when he and Renee may or may not have had sex! Jeremy idolized Jourdan until she kept going on about how he was obsessed with her and pretty much turned him off. Nina liked Chris but then he upset her and then no one liked Chris. Phil kept being called a “sexy Jesus” and kept flirting with Jiana despite having a girlfriend. And in between, there was actual modeling going on as well! Once the models got to Bali, their numbers dwindled until there was three. Who will be America’s Top Model—Jourdan, Cory or Marvin? Find out!

Top Model!

Wait, this is only part one of the finale? And according to my guide, part two isn’t airing right behind it. That means I still have to tune in next week to find out who won?

Wanna be on top?

BALI! Jourdan’s picture is on display and she notes this is her fifth time getting the first photo. Cory and Marvin celebrate being the top two guys. He says he’s not going to be happy until he wins it all. Cory says they all represent a different side of the industry—Jourdan is the classic beauty, Marvin is the youthful male and Cory is the androgynous male. Marvin, meanwhile, is glum that he didn’t get a kiss goodbye from Renee last week. But the other two remind him that Chris is gone.

Glee: Good Night, Sweet Prince

Yes, I know I haven’t recapped a Glee episode since pretty much the first season. But after Cory Monteith’s death, I knew I had to recap this episode.

Before we continue, let’s get this out of the way first: They do not reveal how Finn died. It’s not important as this episode is not about how Finn died, but how the people around Finn grieve and find the strength to go on. Yes, it may not give some fans closure in regards to the character of Finn but it was a choice the producers made. Some people thought they should’ve killed Finn the same way Cory died and I’m glad they didn’t. While Finn’s father became an addict, it wouldn’t have been true to the character to make Finn one either. And if Glee had chosen this episode to be the “drugs are bad, m’kay?” episode, I would’ve been mad. When Glee gets preachy, it gets very heavy-handed in my opinion.

Anyway, on with the show…

ANTM: Bats!

Last week on “ANTM:” It wasn’t on. They debuted Katy Perry’s new album instead. So…

Two weeks ago on “ANTM:” Everybody hated Chris! Marvin and Renee became Marnee! Everyone posed in a rice patty! Then they went to go visit elephants! At panel, Jourdan rose to the top while Nina, Jeremy and Chris H fell into the bottom. In a double elimination, Nina and Jeremy were sent packing. Five contestants remain, who will be eliminated tonight? Find out!

Top Model!

First Look: Jamie Fraser

On Diana Gabaldon's official site, she posted some good news: Starz has released the first image of Sam Heughan as Jamie Fraser in the upcoming Outlander mini-series!

Take a look:

What do you think?

ANTM: The “Preposterous” Elephants

Remember Jade from Cycle 6? And when she thought elephants were related to dinosaurs?

Good times.

Last week on “ANTM:” The models flew to Bali! No one liked Chris H! Don had a panic attack and Nina revealed she had some of her lung taken out so they couldn’t do the underwater runway challenge. Then they had to pose with animals. Nina rose to the top while Don and Marvin fell to the bottom. In the end, Don was eliminated. Seven contestants remain, who will be eliminated? Find out!

Top Model!

ANTM: Bali Hai

Last week on “ANTM:” Jeremy was revealed to the be the male contestant entering back into the competition. The contestants had to film a commercial with some crazy direction. Jourdan won the challenge. There was a large fight over dirty dishes. Then a photoshoot featuring Zendaya in which the models had to turn flaws into assets. Nina rose to the top while Chris H. and Alexandra fell into the bottom. And Alexandra had to leave the stage due to a heart condition. Alexandra was eliminated again and won’t be going to Bali. Eight models remain, who will be eliminated first in Bali? Find out!

Top Model!

The contestants return to the house and pack up their stuff to go to Bali! Marvin’s excited to leave the country; Don says the stress of the competition is getting to him. Jourdan and Renee still think the other is her competition. Nina isn’t sure where her relationship with Chris H stands while he’s glad he wasn’t sent home as he has no home to go to. Because, you know, him mom threw him out when he turned 18. Everyone gets on the model mobile to head to the airport as we head to credits.

Wanna be on top?

HIMYM: The Old-pocalypse

Robin and Barney’s wedding weekend continues as they discuss their schedules. But a bus pulls up, bringing with it our…

“A” Plot: Robin’s and Barney’s elderly relatives have arrived for the wedding and the two are terrified of them. Though they try to be excited and respectful, all they want to do is hide. Robin talks about her great-grandparents and how all they do is bicker. She’s pretty confident they don’t have sex anymore after sixty years of marriage. Barney wonders if that will be them in sixty years. Robin says no, they’re too awesome to be like that. Barney agrees but doubt has crept in.

Nostalgia Nook: Casper the Friendly Ghost

It’s Halloween! Okay, almost. But I thought I’d do a related movie.

Let’s have a little history lesson first though: Casper the Friendly Ghost was created by Seymour Reit and Joe Oriolo for a children’s book which never took off. During World War II, Oriolo sold the rights to Paramount who turned Casper into a cartoon. In the cartoons, Casper lived with other ghosts who enjoyed scaring the living. But he didn’t want to do that and so he set out to make friends amongst the humans. The cartoons ran before movies and soon transferred to TV. Comics staring the ghost were also produced. And in 1995, Casper got his own live-action movie.

Casper, the Friendly SPOILERS!

HIMYM: Faith and Trust

But sorry, no pixie dust!

Welcome to part two of How I Met Your Mother’s final season premiere. The gang—sans Marshall—has arrived in Farhampton, where Barney and Robin will be getting married.

Plot “A”: Marshall and Marvin’s Bogus Journey. When we last left father and baby son, they were trying to outrun Sherri to get onboard the last flight to New York. But there’s a big storm and there are no more flights to New York. Barney, on the phone with Marshall, instructs him to throw Sherri’s luggage into a restricted zone. Marshall refuses but promises to make it to New York in time for the wedding. He tries to find another flight but once again, no flights to New York. What about the train? Anyway, the booking agent says they might try renting a car. Sherri throws Marshall’s diaper bag into the restricted area and runs off.

ANTM: Flawsome

Last time on "ANTM": The models went on go-sees to try and book fashion shows. Jourdan and Marvin didn't book any and Jourdan didn't understand because they kept saying it was because her walk was "too good." Tyra eventually clued her in that it was a polite way of saying she was too bland. Renee won the challenge before they posed in a field with mirrors. Chris H rose to the top while Marvin and Phil fell to the bottom. Phil was eliminated but had a chance to comeback right then! Alexandra was revealed to be the comeback kid...for the girls. As Phil, Mike and Jeremy awaited their fate, the episode ended. Who will come back? Who will be eliminated? Find out! 

Top Model! 

HIMYM: When Lily Met the Mother

Ladies and gentlemen, it’s the last season of How I Met Your Mother. So I am recapping it again for old times’ sake.

Back in May, the season finale gave us a most welcomed surprise—the titular Mother! And I am a bit embarrassed to admit I had to look up the actress who played her because she looked so familiar to me…only to discover it was Tony Award nominee Cristin Milotti (“Once”). Does that mean I have to turn in my Theater Geek card?

Smash: Waiting, Impatiently

Last time on “Smash:” Hit List made it to Broadway! Daisy blackmailed Derek and replaced Ana in the show! Jimmy wants to get Kyle a Tony! Someone told the press about Season 1 Ivy! Tom and Julia have a goodbye performance! Ivy is preggers!

SMASH!

Ivy’s pregnant and suffering from morning sickness. A stage manager bangs on the bathroom door, telling her she’s missing her curtain call. She yells back she’ll be out in a minute. And her odd behavior hasn’t gone unnoticed. Jessica and Bobby recruit Sam to check in with her, telling him about her bizarre behavior which includes almost missing her Act II entrance because she had fallen asleep during the intermission. They are concerned Season 1 Ivy is back.

ANTM: The Comeback Kid

Last week on “Top Model:” Marvin cried. Nonstop. Kelly tested them on their fashion knowledge…while they were in their underwear. For every correct answer, the contestants earned money to spend to put together an outfit. Don charmed his way to a challenge win. Then they had to pose while paint was thrown on them. Jourdan rose to the top again while Phil and Jiana ended up in the bottom two. Jiana was eliminated as Phil gets to model another day. Eight contestants remain, who goes home tonight? Find out!

Top Model!

Outlander Has a Heroine!

Outlander fans rejoice!

Claire Beauchamp Randall Fraser has been cast! 

 She will be played by Catriona Balfe. I don't know much about her but Diana Gabaldon raved about her. Looking at her, though, I think she'll be good.

Can't wait to see!

ANTM: Big Boys Don’t Cry

Last time on “ANTM:” The boys decide to prank the girls, who are pretty cool about it. Phil goes crazy on a shoot, annoying Kelly to no end. Cory’s team won only because Don’s team didn’t put Nina in a shoot featuring women’s clothing. Then Nina and Chris H fought it and it looks like China is on the skids. At a photoshoot about nail art, J2 hits the skids too. Kanani though is still freaked out about the clowns the boys hid in her room the night before. While Jourdan rises to the top, Jeremy and Kanani are sent packing in a double elimination. Nine models remain, who is eliminated tonight? Find out!

Top Model!

Nostalgia Nook: Kim Possible

Disney is known for its Princesses at the movies. But it has had its share of kickass heroines in its animated shows. And I think one of the more popular ones has been Kim Possible!

Call me, beep me, SPOILERS!

ANTM: Nail It

Last time on “ANTM:” Jourdan couldn’t figure out how to evenly distribute phone time and then spent longer trying to calm down her boyfriend. This led to fighting and no doubt the producers cackling in joy. Perez Hilton and Bryanboy interview people on the street for…reasons…and Jeremy won a date with Jourdan. Which was pretty much Jourdan yammering on about her past. Then the wannabes then had to film a fragrance commercial while portraying the opposite sex. Cory was in his element and rose to the top while Alexandra and Jiana fell to the bottom. In the end, Alexandra was sent packing. Eleven contestants remain, who will be eliminated tonight? Find out!

Top Model

ANTM: Dude Looks Like a Lady

Last week on “ANTM:” Chris H had a heart-to-heart with the rest of the house and most people accepted his explanation of why he was weird. He also has a blossoming friendship with Nina, who had a swollen ankle. The models had to walk a revolving turntable and no one got seriously hurt. And then they had to pose in a trailer park. Marvin has no game. Though he does cop to his crush on Jiana at panel. Jourdan rose to the top while Mike and Jeremy fell to the bottom two. In the end, Mike was eliminated. Twelve models remain, who will be eliminated tonight? Find out!

Top Model!

ANTM: You Know You’re a Redneck When…

Last week on “Top Model:” MAKEOVERS! Before that though, Tyra and Rob taught the model wannabes about “chemistry.” They then posed in pictures with Alessandra Ambrosio. As for makeovers, Cory went bald! Nina went red! Jourdan went blonde! Phil turned into Jesus! Marvin still has no game! In the end, Mike rose to the top while Chlea and Don fell into the bottom two. Chlea was eliminated but wait! She could come back like last year! Thirteen contestants remain, who is eliminated tonight? Find out!

Top Model!

ANTM: Manscaping Causes Manspain

Last week on “ANTM:” No one died as the models walked down the side of a building for a fashion show. Chlea earned the wrath of Kelly. Marvin had no game with the ladies. Bianca had a crush on Mike, who was giving Season 5 Lisa a run for her money in alcohol consumption. They posed in non-traditional marriage photos. Don and Marvin exceled while Mike, Bianca and Chris S fell to the bottom. Bianca and Chris were both eliminated. Fourteen contestants remain, who will be eliminated tonight? Find out!

Top Model!

Chlea complains about Kelly and how she talked to her. She said her mother kicked her out and she wasn’t going to be controlled. Renee is like, “Be smart. It’s a game.” Phil and Jiana talk about the hormones and Marvin is still trying to get with the girls. Cory is over it. Uh oh. No, Cory! You’re getting the goner edit!

Wanna be on top?

Smash: Beware Sneaky Chorines

Last time on “Smash:” The bastards killed Kyle, one of the last likeable characters on this show. Everyone mourns the loss of a genius despite the fact we hardly saw him being a genius. They cancel the performance of “Hit List” but then Scott reschedules it, though it costs him his relationship with Julia. Jimmy returns to perform while most of the cast looks on. As they toast Kyle, Jerry reveals he’s bringing “Hit List” to Broadway.

SMASH!

ANTM: I Think I Wanna Marry You

Last week: Time for a new cycle! And this time, Tyra is letting men join the competition. We met some good looking ones, some quirky ones and some crazy ones. Tyra flew the top 35 out to LA to walk in a fashion show where they had to kiss their partner and pose. After the requisite sob stories, the judges reduced the number to 26. The final 26 pose on the side of a building for people to vote and the judges whittle it down to the final 16. Chris H has some very poor bonding skills, as his idea is to punch other guy’s nuts, and Jeremy is infatuated with Jourdan. The top sixteen are revealed and will now have to walk down a building. Who will fall to their death? Who will be eliminated? FIND OUT!

Tyra points to the roof of the building as some guy walks down it with the assist of a harness. She reveals this is a challenge and like last year, they will be ranked. Jiana is nervous that they will be walking in heels and says she hasn’t even told her mom she’s in the competition let alone about to die in it. Don’s scared of heights and is looking a bit unsure.

Wanna be on top?

Outlander Has Its Villain!

And no, it's not Jason Isaacs.

It's Tobias Menzies.

Let's take a look, shall we?

Nostalgia Nook: Captain Planet and the Planeteers

Yes, I know the Nostalgia Critic did this. But I wanted to do it myself. Especially as there will be a film made based on the TV show.

So let our SPOILERS combine!

ANTM: THERE ARE MEN, YOU GUYS!

I’m not liveblogging the casting episodes because…well…you all know how I feel about casting episodes. So regular recaps will resume next week with the first proper episode.

But here are my thoughts!

I don’t see how the boys will bring something new to the program except increased hormones. Each fills an archetype we’ve seen on the show before: the overconfident one, the poor one, the socially awkward one, etc. But there was some flirting already. We need to keep our eye on Jourdan and Jeremy. I smell reality show love!

America's Next Top Model Returns!

Going through FIERCE withdrawals? 
Missing the chance to use the words "smize" and "tooch" in conversation? 
Forgotten how cray-cray Tyra can be? 

FEAR NOT! 

America's Next Top Model returns Friday, August 2nd. (Check local listings). It's Boys vs. Girls, so let the battle of the sexes begin! 

Yes, I will be recapping it. 

Outlander: Jamie Cast!

Starz has cast its Jamie Fraser!

It first leaked out earlier that Starz may have cast Sam Heughan to play the lead in the adaptation of Diana Gabaldon's "Outlander," seemingly confirmed by the author herself. And now Starz has confirmed it.

So here's our Jamie:

Star Trek: Into Morality and Ethical Dilemma

Four years after breathing new life into the Star Trek franchise, J.J. Abrams and his partners return with the continuing adventures of the USS Enterprise. How do they do?

And yeah, I know I’m a bit late in seeing the movie. But I got to it and so I’m sharing my opinion on the movie.

Boldly going where no SPOILERS have gone before.

RIP Cory Monteith

"Glee" Star Cory Monteith Dies at Age 31

When I saw the article at Playbill (I linked to the one at E! Online), my heart skipped a beat. I could not believe this was true but, alas, it is. Glee has lost it's leading man and I want to take a moment to reflect on this, including some videos of Monteith's performances on Glee. Let's start with "Don't Stop Believing" from the pilot:

Smash: Here He Lies, No One Knew His Worth…

Last time on “Smash:” Ivy was running circles doing promotional events for Bombshell. Derek tried to talk to her but she kept shutting him down. Jimmy was high and messed up! So he got fired! Tom and Julia are fighting! Jimmy and Kyle are fighting! Kyle steps off the curb and is greeted by bright lights!

SMASH!

Nostalgia Nook: Disney Adventures

When I was younger, I received four magazines: Highlights, American Girl, Nickelodeon and Disney Adventures. Of course I had a magazine put out by Disney—why wouldn’t I?

So let’s discuss it, shall we?

Disney Adventures came out monthly. And I loved to read it. It was my People magazine. News about different stars filled the pages. Stories about movies, TV shows and music were all presented to a tween/teen audience. Comics filled the back pages starring our favorite Disney characters.

Outlander: Casting the TV Series

So, I'm gonna start off with a shameless plug (or two). I'm trying to be a published novelist and I'm blogging about it. Every so often, I write a "book analysis." It's when I take a book I just read and go over it. I examine it for what I believe the author did well and what I thought could've been done better. So I did it for Diana Gabaldon's book "Outlander." I thought I did it for the second in the series, "Dragonfly in Amber," but it appears I didn't. Judging by my Goodreads review, I guess I was just too fed up. Not too fed up to stop reading the series, though I have yet to start "Voyager," the third book in the series.

And not enough to be excited to see "Outlander" brought to life on my TV screen. A few months ago, Starz tapped Ron C. Moore to create a possible series based on Gabaldon's Outlander series. Earlier this month, the series received the green light.

You know what that means! Time to get really serious about casting speculation. Because we've all speculated on the chance this would happen. And I'm no different. So, I present to you my selections for the main characters of Outlander under the cut.

Smash: The Crash

Last time on “Smash:” Bombshell FINALLY opened! And the Hit List cast was invited for some reason! Ivy shone while Karen suffered from a bad case of heaving bosoms. Karen learned the truth about Jimmy and dumped him! Ivy learned about Derek and Karen and dumped him! Leo lives! Julia moved out! The Great Gatsby!

SMASH!

Nostalgia Nook: Tiny Toon Adventures How I Spent My Vacation

If you were a 90s child, you watched Tiny Toons. Teen versions of our favorite Looney Tune characters who went on wacky adventures. And that included their summer vacation. Since it’s June and school is ending soon, let’s take a look.

We’re tiny, we’re toony, we’re all a little SPOILERS!

Smash: Another Opening, Another Show

Last time on “Smash:” Ivy went nude! Karen lost some songs and had a hissy fit! Sam quit Bombshell!

SMASH!

It’s Bombshell’s opening night! Well, the night before opening night. Ivy is nervous as she takes her final bow. She’s been refusing to read anything about her performance and everyone seems to be onboard with this.

Review: Iron Man 3

Confession time: I’m not one for superhero movies. Yes, that means I haven’t seen the Nolan Batman trilogy. (I have seen the Clooney and Keaton movies). The last superhero movie I saw was “The Green Lantern.” So I haven’t seen the other Iron Man movies.

But it was Mother’s Day. Well, it was Mother’s Day for my mother. Mother’s Day was too busy for her to enjoy it so we relocated it. And she wanted to go see Iron Man 3 for her day. So, I went.

So, SPOILERS!

Top 10 Smash Songs

Next week, NBC airs the 2 hour series finale of Smash. I've decided to do a top 10 list of the best original songs featured on the show, as voted by the monkeys in my brain. 

10. Hang the Moon
9.  Mr. and Mrs. Smith
8.  Never Give All the Heart
7.  Let's Start Tomorrow Tonight
6.  Rewrite This Story
5.  Don't Forget Me
4.  Second Hand White Baby Grand
3.  Let's Be Bad
2.  Broadway, Here I Come
1.  Let Me Be Your Star

Agree? Disagree? Sound off below! 

Smash: Baring It All

Last week on “Smash”: Julia took Kyle under her wing to help him better shape “Hit List.” Which meant expanding the Diva’s role. Ivy celebrated her birthday with both Tom and then everyone else. He discovered this and was hurt, but Ivy explained they can’t be friends until after Bombshell opens. Jimmy and Karen continue to fool around but Karen tells Derek about them.

SMASH!

Smash: LIZA! MINNELLI!

Last time on “Smash:” The show was on Tuesday! Bernadette came back on to play Gladys in Bombshell without anyone telling Ivy! After a tense rehearsal, Ivy declares she’s no longer Tom’s friend! Jimmy and Karen are a couple now! But no one can know! Though Karen’s dad does figure it out! Ana impresses Jamey Sheridan! Jimmy needs to pay off Some Drug Dealer Guy and Derek helps him!


SMASH!

Doctor Who: The Power of “Could’ve Been”

The Rings of Ahkaten or “Battle of the Gods”

Merry was a little lamb, who sang a pretty song. The Doctor tried to save her and Clara tagged along. To give a system some relief, Clara ends up sacrificing a very important leaf.

The Doctor spies on a man as he walks down a street. A leaf blows in his face, causing him to collide with a young woman. They laugh, flirt and go out on a date. And the Doctor keeps spying on them. The man gives the woman the leaf, calling it the most important leaf in human history. It’s cheesy but it works. The two get married and have a daughter. And if you haven’t guessed by now, said daughter is Clara. The Doctor runs into them into the park before heading into the TARDIS. Pictures of Victorian!Clara and Oswin are up on the screen. He stares at them, trying to figure out how Clara is possible while we see Clara and her father at her mother’s grave. She clutches the book—places to see—to her chest.

One Life to Live: The Return

Fear not, fellow One Life to Live fans! Our soap hath returned!

It lives online thanks to Prospect Park and has just completed its first week. So, how was it?

So far, I think it’s been a success. The cast is full of veterans, once again led by Erika Slezak as Viki. And the show was wise to open with her and Clint. It was like when the shows start up again in September and we see all those familiar faces again. It also answered one of the cliff hangers from when OLTL signed off in January 2012—Viki accepted Clint’s proposal. Fear not, Buchanan fans, Nigel is still around and working at Llanfair.

Nostalgia Nook: Backstreet Boys

In the 90s, girls were divided into two main factions: those who liked the Backstreet Boys and those who liked N*SYNC. There were smaller factions, much like the independent parties come Election Day. 98ᵒ or another style of music. But let’s go back to the BSB vs. N*SYNC camps. I was a hardcore BSB fan. And I got into my share of fights with the N*SYNC lovers. Why?

Let’s find out, shall we?

Smash: Mommy Dearest

Last week on “Smash”: Ivy rejoined Bombshell! Sam’s back! Jimmy and Derek don’t get along! Julia screwed Scott over a decade and a half ago! Everybody danced in Tom’s apartment! Eileen worked to get publicity for Bombshell! Jamey Sheridan! Ana singing! Sam and Tom fighting! JIMMY KISSING KAREN!

Smash!

Doctor Who: Uploaded

The Bells of St. John’s or “WiFi is EVUL! EVUL WE TELL YOU!”
Richard E. Grant uses Dolores Umbrage to “download” people but she makes a mistake when she downloads a third incarnation of Jenna Louise Coleman. So the Doctor gives Umbrage a taste of her own medicine.

We open as people all over the world connect using WiFi while some guy broadcasts a video warning. He says they might see something strange and he tells them not to click it. Because then they get a hold of the laptop and then they stalk the person. And the person then dies. Their souls get uploaded to the internet and people are screaming out for help. TVs full of people saying they don’t know where they are.

Smash: Heart Breaker

Last week on “Smash”: Tom became the director of Bombshell but had trouble with Karen. Eileen and daughter Katie worked to find a way to oust Jerry. Julia found one way while Katie used emotional blackmail. Something’s going on between Julia and Scott. Terry Falls goes all out in Liaisons but ends up in the hospital. And the show ends up shuttering, freeing up Ivy. So Karen quits so she can do Hit List and Ivy can do Bombshell. All is right with the world.

SMASH!

Nostalgia Nook: Anastasia

Yes, I know the Nostalgia Chick already did this. But I thought I’d cover it as well.

I remember being on a forum where someone blasted the Disney company for not recognizing Anastasia in their princess collection. Others agreed until I posted the movie was not a Disney one but made by Fox. The original poster thankfully thanked me for the information and apologized for blasting the Disney company. She just loved the movie and wanted the same amount of merchandising for Anastasia that the Disney princesses get. Which is understandable.

What’s my point? That Anastasia is often mistaken for a Disney movie and probably because, as the Nostalgia Chick points out, it is the most similar to the Disney formula.

In the dark of the night, there will be SPOILERS!

The Bible: The End?

Let's get the snark out of the way. As I tweeted last night: It's official, The Bible: Where No One's Name Was Ever Changed. Nope. First was Abraham and Sarah never being called Abram and Sarai, but I let that slide. And then Jesus addressed "Peter" and never "Simon." This week, they introduce Paul of Tarsus. It's almost a One Steve Limit--there was already one saul, can't have two! But there's already the precedent. Oh well. Onto the rest of the review...

And so the Bible ends. 

Smash: Wait, Who is Doing What Again?

Last week on “Smash:” Derek quit Bombshell! Tom became the director! Jerry forbade Karen from performing in Hit List! But she did anyway! And everyone loves it! Including Jesse L. Martin! And Eileen found out about Ellis and Jerry!

SMASH!

The Bible: Jesus' Ministry

Good timing, History Channel. The Bible will conclude on Easter. Bravo. 

This week's episode was focused on Jesus' ministry, moreso on his miracles but his teachings were included. The main focus in this episode--besides continuing the Rome was the evilest evil who ever eviled theme from the last episode--was the growing tensions between Jesus and the Pharisees. And the growing belief Jesus came to free them from the Romans. (Oh, did they watch the last episode as well?) 

Face Off: Steal My Dreams…

This season on “Face Off:” Twelve competitors showed off their skills at special effects makeup! They had to deal with aliens, zombies, werewolves, candy and Autumn. One by one, they fell until only three remain after Eric F’s elimination last week. Who will win? Kris? Anthony? Wayne? Find out!

Face Off!

Smash: Temper, Temper

Last week on “Smash:” Julia and Peter finished their script. But then Julia doubts Peter’s loyalty, especially as another script pops up on Jerry’s desk. The script they read, though, is the one Julia wrote and everyone loves it. But Jerry wants to do the original script from season one. Tom agrees though Derek and Julia want to do the new script. They let Eileen be the deal breaker. Meanwhile, Ivy meets her new leading man and realizes he is destroying the show. She tries to help but makes the situation worse. And Karen gathers a bunch of people to read through Kyle’s script for “Hit List.” It doesn’t go so well. Kyle mopes while Jimmy tells Karen they should only interact as colleagues. Then they decide that “Hit List” should be sung-through like “Rent.” So what did Eileen chose? Find out!

SMASH!

The Bible: For Unto Us...

I am starting to think "The Bible" is forcing people to read it by putting in these inaccuracies every so often. 

And by skipping large portions of "The Bible." 

There's a part of me that wants to go back to when they were deciding which stories to include and which to discard. Why eliminate Jacob and his sons? Elijah and Elisha? Solomon? What were the reasons to not include these people? 

Celtic Thunder: Mythology

St. Patrick’s Day has passed, so let’s celebrate belatedly with the latest Celtic Thunder offering!

**Note: I ordered through Amazon, so I did not get the deluxe set: IE both CDs and both DVDs. Hopefully Sharon later releases these separately for those who chose to order the way I did.**

Mythology is thrilling.

Face Off: When a Mommy Alien and a Daddy Alien Love Each Other…

Last week on “Face Off:” The final five worked on Evil Dead inspired mummified versions of Egyptian gods. Everyone worked like crazy while Eric F. reveled in the challenge. Kris won the challenge while Anthony and House ended up in the bottom two. House was eliminated. Four contestants remain, who will be eliminated tonight? Find out!

(PS: I realized in last week’s recap, I accidentally crossed off Kris’ name rather than House’s. It’s been corrected).

Face Off!

Smash: Hits and Misses

Last time on “Smash:” Derek directed Ronnie’s one night only show while Mama Moore ran interference. Karen recruited Jimmy and Kyle to write a new song for the show. But when Derek decides to play it safe, Jimmy flips out that they won’t use his song. He disappears into the night which concerns Kyle. Meanwhile, Julia is upset when Peter ambushes her in his acting class by having said class read and discuss Bombshell with the names swapped out. So she reads his play and learns it sucks. This somehow brings the two together and they start working on Bombshell. Jimmy shows up, high, in time for Ronnie’s concert. She decides to do things Derek’s way and closes with the song Jimmy wrote. Everyone rises to their feet as she takes a bow with Jimmy and Kyle. Oh, and Ellis got Nick locked up and allowed Jerry to take over Bombshell from Eileen.

SMASH!

Face Off: Mummies!

Last week on “Face Off:” The seven contestants were tasked with creating new lifeforms which might be found on Earth. They had to use luminescent paint on their creatures as well. All with the threat of double elimination hanging over their heads. Anthony managed to redeem himself but Meagan and Eric Z. were eliminated. Five contestants remain, who will be eliminated tonight? Find out!

Face Off!

The Bible: Relationship Problems

History's miniseries, "The Bible," continued this week where it left off last time. Joshua and the Israelites waited outside the walls of Jericho, ready to conquer it. The actress who played Rahab, Stephanie Leonidas, was very good and the sequence was a good, exciting start. 

Nostalgia Nook: Pirates of the Dark Waters

Sorry for the delay! Next month will hopefully be on time!

I loved watching this show growing up. It was probably the darkest I watched. After all, I was generally watching the Disney Afternoon or My Little Ponies or CareBears or Rainbow Brite. Definitely bright and colorful. But at the same time, I loved Pirates of the Dark Waters.

Why? Well, let’s take a look, shall we?

SPOILERS AHEAD!

Smash: One Night Only

Last week on “Smash:” Eileen pretty much demanded Julia work with a dramaturg named Peter to fix the problems with Bombshell’s book. Julia is not happy but he pushes her into writing a scene between JFK and Marilyn…which he still doesn’t like. Tom coaches Ivy through an audition for a revival of Liasions and she gets the role of Cecile! Bombshell returns to the auditions while Karen tries to get Derek to meet Jimmy and Kyle. It works, to their surprise. Though there is a Place That is Not to Be Mentioned and hints that Jimmy has a Dark!Past! Also, Ronnie Moore decided to shed her good girl image by quitting “The Wiz” and asking Derek to direct her in a one night only concert.

SMASH!

The Bible: Genesis and Exodus

"God is with us; trust in God." 

This is the message of "The Bible," or at least its first part, airing on the History channel. It doesn't start in the very obvious way: With a voice booming "In the beginning..." The first part starts with stormy seas which in my Bible (the New American Bible) is how the void is described before God starts creating. But no, it's the flood waters as we see the ark bouncing among the waves. Onboard, Noah recounts the creation to his scared family. He then goes into Adam and Eve, though they get barely a minute of screentime before we see Cain and Abel. Then Noah explains why God flooded the Earth. 

Face Off: It Glows in the Dark!

Last time on “Face Off:” The eight contestants were paired up to try and makeup an entire zombie horde. Meagan wins the challenge and gets immunity. They are paired off again to create werewolves from other planets. Eric Z wants to kill partner Autumn who blames him for why their face sculpture looks bad when Michael goes around. And then again in front of the panel. So the judges kicked her out. Seven contestants remain, who will be eliminated tonight? Find out!

Face Off!

Just a note, I put up links to these recaps on my tumblr. Anthony likes and reblogs each link. I don’t know if he’s actually reading them, but if he is—Anthony, you rock! That is all…

Smash: Hands Off My Manuscript!

Last week: The President addressed both houses of Congress and the nation.

Two weeks ago: “Smash” returned in grand fashion! Karen is riding high from the praise of her Boston performances while Julia is pretending she didn’t read the reviews which panned her book. Derek introduces Karen to Ronnie Moore AKA Jennifer Hudson, a two-time Tony winner who will be in The Wiz directed by Derek. Until Rebecca Duvall accuses him of sexual harassment. And then six other dancers jump on the bandwagon. And in the meantime, Julia’s marriage finally implodes and Nick’s money flow is investigated. Bombshell is frozen and considered dead in the water. Karen moves into a new apartment and gets a new roommate. She also makes two new friends, Kyle and Jimmy, who are writing a musical. And she wants to help them get to Broadway, even though Jimmy isn’t so thrilled. Eileen saves Bombshell, Ivy finds her love for the theater after some doubts and Julia gives up her scarves.

SMASH!

Face Off: Werewolves of (Insert Planet Here)

Last time on “Face Off:” The contestants had to do a challenge re-imagining famous fairy tale heroines as bad girls. Which meant monsters! Then they had to design bugs! Kris and Wayne rose to the top but a technicality gave the win to Kris. Wunderkind Anthony ended up with Meagan and Alam the bottom two. He was spared as Alam was sent home. Eight contestants remain, who will be eliminated tonight? Find out!

Face Off!

Smash: Saving Private Monroe

Last time on “Smash:” Read the recap here.

Time for the second episode of Smash’s premiere! Bombshell is on hold indefinitely due to their finances being frozen. Eileen tries to pay people, but it is difficult. And Jerry is gloating over the whole thing. I bet Eileen wishes she had a Manhattan to toss in his face. She promises Bombshell will live.

Face Off: BUGS!

Last week on “Face Off:” The contestants got to go to Six Flags Magic Mountain where McKenzie surprised them with producer/director Bryan Singer. He challenges them to make giants with multiple heads and McKenzie pairs them up. Meagan and Jenna have issues with their project, especially with Jenna’s hand injury. Anthony manages Autumn without her knowing. And Kris just does whatever Eric F. wants. In the end, their giant wins and Eric F. wins over all while Jenna and Meagan fall into the bottom with Eric Z. and Alam. Despite understanding her hand injury, the judges eliminate Jenna. Nine contestants remain, who will be eliminated tonight? Find out!

Face Off!

Face Off: There Are Giants in the Sky!

Last week on “Face Off”: McKenzie brought the remaining eleven contestants to a bar for a beard challenge. Eric Z. won, getting immunity at Last Looks. The contestants were told to create a character where they incorporate candy into their design. Which meant monsters to most of our contestants. In the end, Kris dethroned Anthony to win the top look while Alex’s beauty pageant failed to impress the judges. Ten contestants remain; who will be eliminated tonight? Find out!

Face Off!

Smash: Returning to New York (And Your TV Sets)

Last season on “Smash:” Julia and Tom get the idea to make a musical about Marilyn Monroe despite the fact an earlier attempt had flopped. Eileen decides to produce it to show the theater world—and her soon-to-be-ex husband—she could do it by herself. She finances the show with Nick Jonas playing an expy of himself, Thorsten Kaye’s ill-gotten money and Terrence Mann as a crazy rocker. Eileen hires bad boy director-choreographer Derek to helm the show. And it comes down to who will play Marilyn: Ivy Lynn or Karen Cartwright. Ivy wins it first, then loses it to Uma Thurman, who then quits and Karen goes on in the role. Meanwhile, her relationship with her fiancé explodes and Julia has an affair with the Joe DiMaggio which puts her marriage on the rocks. As Karen’s star rises, Ivy hits rock bottom. Oh, and nobody liked Ellis.

Light the lights, SMASH IS BACK!

Face Off: The Candy Man Can!

Last week on “Face Off:” The contestants were hauled out to the desert to be inspired to create demons in teams. But then McKenzie comes in and changes it up: Hell hath frozen over. At judging, Anthony and Alam’s demon came out on top with Anthony continuing his winning streak. Autumn is confused as she thought her demon was “adorable” but she and Alex end up in the bottom four. But Katie was sent home in though her partner Jenna has a medical condition which makes sculpting difficult. Eleven contestants remain, who is eliminated tonight? Find out!

Face Off!

Nostalgia Nook: Lady Lovelylocks and the Pixietails

Oh, the 80s. And its cartoons. Some hold up, some don’t. Does Lady Lovelylocks? Let’s find out, shall we?

Beware tangles and SPOILERS!

Disney Awards

I’ve locked the doors to the internet so you can’t run away! You will read my latest Disney-inspired post!

*Insert evil laugh here*

We all have taken out our old yearbooks from time to time. And one page we’ve gone back to for laughs—the “awards” section. You know—who was “Most Likely to Succeed”, “Most Likely to Live in a Trailer Down by the River” or who had the “Best Smile”? My yearbook had that section. Only our yearbook staff was crunched for time and had us make up our own.

And guess who just returned from a Walt Disney World vacation? That’s right! So, I decided to apply these to the different aspects of the Walt Disney World Resort. Why Disney World? Because I’ve only been to Disneyland once, meaning I’m more acquainted with everything down in Florida. 

Let’s begin!

Face Off: Demons of the Arctic

Last time on “Face Off:” The thirteen contestants get to go to San Diego Comic Con and meet reps from DC Comics. They are tasked with creating their own superheroes and bringing them to life. Anthony once again rose to the top while Michael was ultimately eliminated. Twelve contestants remain, who is eliminated tonight?

Face Off

Nostalgia Nook: The Continuing TV Adventures of Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen

“Full House” ended in 1995, after nine years on TV. But Mary-Kate and Ashley continued to perform after that. They got their own sitcom on ABC’s prestigious “TGIF” lineup called “Two of a Kind.”

In it, Mary Kate and Ashley play the twin daughters of a college professor, Kevin (Christopher Sieber). He’s a single dad and needs help dealing with his pre-teen children. So he hires Carrie, one of his students, to be their babysitter. She provides them with the female guidance they lack and UST with their father. Here, the twins continue the molds they started in “It Takes Two.” Mary-Kate plays a tomboy; Ashley the girly-girl. The only thing I really remember about this show was Sieber as the dad and I’m glad he’s found acclaim on the Great White Way.

Face Off: Up, Up and Away!

I know I kinda stopped recapping the second season after the death in my family and never did the third season. But when I flipped onto SyFy to see they were re-airing the premiere, I made a split decision to recap it. And then I realized I turned it on a half hour after the start. So that recap will be pending. Look for it under the title “Face Off: There is Only One Goblin King—David Bowie.”

Last time: The fourteen contestants were welcomed to Face Off. See above for why I don’t know what the foundation challenge was, but I know Anthony won it. The contestants then worked in pairs on goblin kings, bearing designs of the elements. In the end, Anthony won the whole thing while Troy was eliminated. Thirteen contestants remain, who is eliminated tonight?

Face Off

The Return of the ABC Soaps—Update #2

Prospect Park has released a list of actors with whom they have contracts for in regards to the reboots of “All My Children” and “One Life to Live.”

For “All My Children":

Lindsay Hartley (Cara Castillo)
Vincent Izirrary (David Hayward)
Thorsten Kaye (Zach Slater)
Jill Larson (Opal Cortlandt)
Debbi Morgan (Angie Hubbard)
Gordi Vilasuso (Griffin Castillo)
Darnell Williams (Jesse Hubbard)

Nostalgia Nook: Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen Sing!

Many involved in the entertainment industry are trained to be triple threats—actors, singers and dancers. And if they aren’t, they are expected to be. It was no different with the Olsen twins. They apparently did stage shows and made a video of just them singing. And did we eat it up? You bet we did.
I’d put a spoiler tag but it’s a series of music videos. No need for spoilers there.

Their first song is “I am the Cute One.” It’s a sweet number where the twins argue they are the “cute one” and the other is “just my sister.” But the main thrust is just them dressing up in adorable outfits. Which little girls envied, trust me.

Nostalgia Nook: The Adventures of Mary-Kate and Ashley

Olsen Month continues! Mary-Kate and Ashley were everywhere in the 90s. Once they could start memorizing scripts, their career went beyond Full House. They formed the production company DualStar. And they started putting out videos which we girls gobbled up. I know I rushed out to the video store to pick up a new one—especially “The Mary-Kate and Ashley Mysteries.”

So, how do they hold up?

Doctor Who: Frosty Isn’t So Jolly

The Snowmen or “Time to Make You Afraid of Snow!”

Victorian England has recovered from the Cybermen only to have to deal with psychic snow. All while the Doctor is “retired.” Which we know how long that lasts, especially with a perky female assistant running about.

We start at a Dickensian orphanage, where a small boy builds a snowman. The adults watch him and talk about how he is a loner. He prefers the company of his snowmen and calls the other children stupid. The snowman echoes this sentiment. And our Dickensian orphan has a new best friend. Who ultimately ends up eating people sometime in the future, controlled by the Dickensian orphan grown up into Richard E. Grant, returning to Doctor Who!

Mirror, Mirror: Not Your Usual Snow White

Let’s be real: The year 2012 belonged to Snow White. One of the best new TV shows was “Once Upon a Time,” featuring Ginnifer Goodwin as the famous fairy tale princess. And then within weeks of each other, two movies featuring Snow White debuted. The more popular was “Snow White and the Huntsman” with Kristen Stewart (Twilight) and Chris Hemsworth (Thor) as well as Charlize Theron (Oscar Winner). It’s getting a sequel despite the scandal over the summer when Kristen Stewart admitted to a brief affair with the director. But does it mean its competitor was bad? Let’s take a look, shall we?

SPOILERS, SPOILERS!

The Return of the ABC Soaps--UPDATE!

It's official--Prospect Park is bringing "All My Children" and "One Life to Live" back!

According to the article, the shows should begin production next month. Which means we should probably see the shows sometime in March. Now, they aren't saying much on castin but Clint Buchanan is already in line to return to Llanview. I hope Viki, Natalie, Bo, Nora, Matthew and Roxy follow suit. 

Who else do you want to see return to Llanview? 

Nostalgia Nook: It Takes Two

Welcome to Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen month! Those adorable twins first captured America’s hearts when they shared the role of Michelle Tanner on “Full House.” As they grew up, they started to garner more and more attention until it felt like they were being shoved down our throats. So they went from the little screen to the big screen. And we’re going to start with one of those outings—“It Takes Two.”

SPOILER WARNING!