Mighty Chroma

In The Hunger Games, the Capitol has forced young men and women to kill each other until one is left alive. Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) survived their game of murder with fellow victor and plausible love interest, Peeta Malark (John Hutcherson). This is not a good thing. History has been forever changed because there are two (two victors hahaha) victors.

In this sequel Katniss' act of defiance is causing uprisings across the nation against the all-mighty Capitol. Districts that have been held down by the Capitol's brutality are fighting back, and Katniss has become the symbol of rebellion. President Snow (Donald Sutherland) is ruthless in stopping the "invincibility" of Katniss and all the fellow victors by pitting them in another violent tournament - where one or no one will come out alive.

Personally, I'm just catching up to the craze of The Hunger Games series reading the trilogy. After blocking any sort of spoilers and only watching the Catching Fire trailer after I completed the second book, I have to say I'm quite underwhelmed.

President Snow

This is my biggest gripe about so far. The books are told from Katniss' point of view. The first film fragmented narratives using Stanley Tucci's Caesar Flickerman as a device to explain things the non-reader audience wouldn't have understood. And, we saw how the gamemakers controlled the arena. It was used somewhat creatively, so I was all right with it.

The second book though relies on the suspense that we know Snow is pissed off. We never knew what his next move would be, so we didn't know how Katniss maneuver everyone she loves to safety. Though the trailer is trying to make us succumb to fear of what Snow has up his sleeve, I really don't care. I find that these intermittent cuts are wiping out the fear we should have of his power and eliminating suspense.

The true face of the Rebellion

I'm just kidding, kids. Everyone knows Katniss is the face of the rebellion except herself. Doubts about her physical and emotional strength is clouded with belief that Peeta is the future of Panem's leadership. But, yes we do so more sides of Peeta in the second book other than being a loverboy.

In the trailer, Haymitch instructs Katniss and Peeta to become a distraction to the country with their love. But I wonder if we're just going to see him be the helpless breadboy he appeared to be in the first movie.

Prim's Doing What Now?

The conversation between Katniss and Prim has lead me to believe the little blond one is getting into all sorts of trouble in the sequel. Funny how in the book after Katniss won, Prim and her mom made their beds at their new home (award to the victors by the Capitol) and were sleeping pretty well too...meanwhile Katniss was flying all over District 12 not being conspicuous at all in her attempts to deceive the Capitol.

Blurring Scenes Together

If I'm not mistaken in the book: after President Snow threatens Katniss with 'death to everyone', she confides in Haymitch about the visit in confidentiality. This exclusivity of information from Peeta shows a side of anger and betrayal with him; they are not informing him of the true danger Snow presents to his family. In the trailer it seems that Katniss has sought Haymitch out but Peeta already knows about the visit. And, so the blurring of storylines and the one-sidedness of Peeta begins.

the Quarter Quell

Unlike the forest-filled arena we saw in the first film, the arena this time is an island that's shaped like a clock. At specific times, deadly threats are unleashed. There were two specific occurrences that I'm anticipating the most (if they are in the movie).

First, is a deadly frog that causes Katniss and her allies to lose all muscle control and break out into blisters all over their body. Second and lastly, the jabberjay forest. High among the trees, Katniss and a fellow victor Finnick are forced to listen to the birds mimmicking piercing screams from those they love.

By far these were the most scary-ass parts in Catching Fire. If the scenes in the arena are shot in IMAX as they are rumored to be, these would be something else to experience in theaters - considering that the second tournament is pretty 'uneventful'.

Thank heavens for Effie

I pretty much love everyone in this series except Jennifer Lawrence. To me, she is playing the most boring denominator of herself while her unscripted personality earned her an unworthy Oscar (yeah, I said it). Despite my love for John Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Lenny Kravitz and Jenna Malone, I thank heavens for Effie. She is just completely unaware of reality it's adorable.

Accentuating the Positive

It's clear we have a few key scenes from the book: Gale and Katniss' kiss in the woods, Gale's being tortured, the destruction of the Hob, Katniss' attempted escape plan, and plenty of scenes about the uprisings. I'm sure in the trailers to be released soon (hopefully) we'll see more action from the second tournament and appearances by other characters like Cinna. So, those are some positive things...

Cut down on my words, lengthen my view point, do this that and the other, and nothing that makes sense squirms it's way out of my puny head.

Spend time away from the computer only to come back. Watch a movie, listen to a song, build up your posts-to-be list. Only to return to the blank screen and still want to spend more time away.

Insecurity. The world needs another pop culture blog?

My well of ideas has not runneth dry, but it certainly hasn't runneth over either.

I'm good at watching how other bloggers blog....

Words are a complete jumble, and it dyslexia my ain't.

Changing the layout more than once a day? Yeah, the blog's exterior will make it easier to write.

Have I just lost the will to blog? I have no more cures left for writer's block.

I'm good at typing with an image included.

Can I be a gif blog now?

Starring: Chris Pine, Denzel Washington, Rosario Dawson
Directed by: Tony Scott
Genre: Thriller / Action

Rating: 95% Awesome
Cliche Two Cents: It's a fun ride!
Summary: An unstoppable train needs to be stopped.

From the beginning of the movie, this story about a literal unstoppable train is unexpectedly gripping.

Chris Pine is the young rookie just out of training beginning his new job on the rails. Denzel Washington is the old dog veteran who has seen it all before; especially cocky new conductors. Their working relationship does start out well for each is highly annoyed by the other.

While they're out doing their job, two other bumbling fools let a train ride off on the tracks. It has no conductor, is stuck on full throttle, carrying dangerous and deadly chemicals, and heading for small towns.

When Pine & Washington heading for this missile-like train decide to stop it, after other unreasonably (somewhat funny) ridiculous plans fail, suspense brews and their friendship forms stronger.

Somehow you'd might think a movie about a train would be uninteresting (don't tell Sheldon Cooper I said that!). Blockbusters has become a bit of worn-out genre from the old 'men with guns blazing around the world stopping big bad guys' ploy. Unstoppable is thrilling and a small notch above other action movies. The dialogue is a little cheesy and cinematography is a bit dizzying (not dazzling) but overall the film is simple and entertaining.

In A Giffy:

Reel to Life: What obstacle have your faced in your life that seemed unstoppable - until the right plan was what you needed to succeed?

My emotional adoration for Ellen Degeneres began when I was a young girl. Huddling up in the living room with my mother, we would never miss an episode of Ellen. Then that fateful day struck when Degeneres came out as a homosexual both in real life and on her show.

Immediately the world responded with malice. Ellen was canceled. Back then at such a young age, and even now, it's hard to believe that Ellen being true to herself generated such hateful backlash. Degeneres disappeared from entertainment and my early years of being a fan girl was left with its first big void.

Slowly the world and I watched her come back with roles like a television executive in EdTv. The forgetful fish in Finding Nemo captivated everyones hearts. And then she became a much-needed friend in our homes every day with her highly beloved talk show, The Ellen Degeneres Show.

In my life Ellen has become a bit of a bad news barometer. Before a big crisis is about to hit the fan, my spidey-sense sparks. Often I can feel some days are going to be one of those days. When I feel I've experienced the worst, I've come to find that no dark moments last forever. Shift your attention to good things and people, and those experiences of hardship can readily be your biggest source of inspiration to keep on swimming.

Dancing with her audience before every show sparks a wave of physical movement to just shake it all off; the negativity, the challenges, even the news that only focuses on the horrifying events of the day.

Watching her help others gives an instant boost of evidence that there are still people out there that are paying attention and care. Immediately you're inspired to spread a little kindness to others who their own obstacles, and perhaps some of your own is not as big as it seemed.

Portia and Ellen's relationship is purely and genuinely testament of how should not be discriminated. Ellen devoutly shows on her show that no matter what size, color, orientation, or beliefs, no one should be counted out for who they love.

This post doesn't even cover the amazing moments that will surely put a smile on your face: pen is broken, Andy can't say that, sloth meltdowns, adorable kid dancers, calls from Gladys, montage of scares, inspiring young adults, favorite web videos, 12 Days of Giveaways, bad paid for photos, comedy specials like The Beginning and Here and Now

Ellen reminds us if we go to Africa, and follow some bushman around, he's being chased by a lion. That's stress. Live in the moment, be yourself, and don't focus on the bad of what's happening right now. Everyone and everything is interconnected. Life has a way of working itself, things will change, and you will make it no matter what.

When in crisis, watch Ellen.
You won't regret it!

Has it been hot as h-e-double hockey sticks where you live? In Florida (where I reside) or the fifth ring of holy heck as I like to call it, we don't get blue skies and sunshine without the inevitable sunburn and heatstroke. While hanging out around the pool (read: 'tanning' on front my lawn because I passed out), some tunes have helped me cool off during these oppressive-90 degree temperatures. Good beats and immersive lyrics are hypnotizing me to think the weather is really cooler than it is. DramaLlamas, what songs are keeping you sweat-free this summer?

Lonely Boy by The Black Keys - First released song off their 2011 album titled El Camimo. A rockin' song on its own went viral when the music video with actor Derrick T. Tuggle dancing and lip-syncing was first post online.

Whistling, saxophone, & a beating heart - what's better than The Walker by Fitz and the Tantrums? (This video is only the official audio - not music video)

Lately, I've been, I've been losing sleep ... excuse me while I go listen to Counting Stars by OneRepublic for the millionth time. Oh, it's just plain catchy.

How can you not cool down with any one more classic than a hip swingin' Elvis? At his '70s concert That's The Way It Is, The King is just The King with a groovy Polk Salad Annie.

One of several great songs featured in Quentin Tarantino's film Django Unchained. This is a little bluesy-badass number by John Legend titledWho Did That To You?

If you're looking for the defiance anthem of right now, Kelly Clarkson's People Like Us might be what you've been searching for.

Jurassic Park is getting a re-release into theaters in 3D on April 5th, 2013. If the childhood nostalgia isn't enough to have me riding a t-rex into theaters, the ultimate comeback for smart and sexy should be.I'm talking about the one and only Ian Malcolm: a rockstar scientist of colossal proportions. What better way to celebrate this blumin' character with excessive personality than with a little tribute.

Makes these noises

He (tries to) set fire to the rain

He learns from his previous mistakes
(the earth moves get the hella outta there)

Takes his shirt off when he has a leg injury

Teaches while seduces:

He's Saintlike

He didn't argue:

He has a talent for spotting the obvious

Gives greatest life lesson in four words:

Not taken, ladies:

A butterfly flaps its wings, Malcolm takes his shirt off.

Oh yeah and a tornado will touch down somewhere.

Bow Down - Beyonce

Is the track hypnotizingly great or just plain annoying?

+ Don't know if this makes her crazy or just keeps her absolutely brilliant as she is - Actress Tilda Swinton sleeps in a glass box for New York City's Museum of Modern Art.

+ If you haven't seen the latest Walking Dead, this contains spoilers. For Entertainment Weekly Norman Reedus opens up about latest character developments on the show.

+ Leonardo DiCaprio continues to show his eco-friendly awesomeness by joining UNREAL's unjunked candy mission.

Personally I think this is really great. Having some food allergies, I don't enjoy a lot of sugary treats that I love. UNREAL offers junk-free versions of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Milky Way’s, Snickers, M&M’s and Peanut M&M’s. The company guarantees the candy has the same great taste, but is made from real ingredients. It contains zero artificial flavoring, hydrogenateds, corn syrup, GMOS and has less sugar than other candies.

+ I'm not really a buzz for the International trailer for The Wolverinebut it has Hugh Jackman. So I can't complain.

+ Once Upon A Time is getting a spin-off set in the world of Alice in Wonderland. Pretty interesting!!

+ Sofia at Film Flare shows some love for Keira Knightley and Steve McQueen.

+ Motivator Man and his focused blog of movies' lessons that motivate our lives to be better is one of my favorite recent reads.

Must SEE Tom Hiddleston in Flaunt Magazine

Oscar Diggs isn't a very good man. A showman in a traveling circus he swindles hopeful patrons with magic acts, rates his helper (Zach Braff) as less than second best, and uses a faux story about "his" grandmother's music box to capture the heart of any female that catches his fancy.

Lucky for him a twister is in town (especially since he's running away from one of those ladies' irate husbands) and escapes into a hot air balloon. Like the tornado that sweeps Dorothy Gale out of Kansas, Oscar crash lands into the beautiful ethereal land of Oz.

Played by James Franco, Diggs makes a male protagonist you can root for. Despite the creepy smiles he flashes throughout the film, Franco carries an underlining of charm and scheme. It's acceptable to see why magic brings all the witches to his yard. Better yet he balances the dry wit with the quest of being in a new world with strange, quirky characters.

Before Diggs has a chance to settle the dust beneath his feet, three witches have their eye on him to save their land. Two of them, Theodora (Mila Kunis) and her sister Evanora (Rachel Wesiz), are the first to hit up Diggs for his so-called magic. Tempted by the witches' bewitching interest in him, Diggs goes along with the assumption he is the great wizard they've been waiting for.

Mysticism of a wicked witch destroying the land of Oz is made aware to Diggs. When Diggs is promised riches beyond his wildest dreams to cure their economic and environmental plight - it doesn't matter to him who she is. He has his eyes set on reclaiming that gold.

As excited as I was to see Weisz and Kunis as wicked witches, they didn't bring exactly what I had in mind to the table. Kunis' Theodora to me seemed to be as bland as a brick wall the second we meet her. There wasn't subtlety behind her trying to hide her powers as a witch; just plain one-note acting.

What Kunis is lacking, Weisz makes up for. Her Evanora is the witch behind the castle scheming to use her sisters' powers. Though some of her mannerisms were a little strange upon first seeing them, Weisz creates a female villain that is a little kooky and fun to find untrustworthy.

Setting out on his mission across Oz, Diggs teams up with two fabulous buddies, Finley the talking monkey and China Girl. My favorite scenes of the film happened between this golden trio. The chemistry between Franco and his CGIed companions made an enjoyable camaraderie. It's actually the first meeting with China Girl that Diggs faces the real devastation sweeping this magical land, and begins to take an active interest in helping those who are truly suffering and set his own ego aside.

The three of them go after Glinda The Good Witch from the North (Michelle Williams), who Evanora and Theodora made out to be the destructor of Oz. The bubble and fog wielding Good Witch from the North befriends Diggs with the utmost innocent sincerity and reveals to him the detriment of the wicked witch has caused her people.

Diggs is forced to question himself and not leave those who are in need behind so he can escape for his life or riches. With Glinda, he is challenged to pull tricks out of his hat he wasn't prepared for.

And a good ol fashion magical fight is put by the Wicked Witch(es). If you managed to hide away from her real identity as I had, the big reveal was something you eventually saw coming: Theodora.

Despite her dry acting in the first half of the film, Kunis' transformation into the Wicked Witch isn't wasted. When she dons the green face, oversized nose 'n chin, and black hat, I finally felt that Kunis was making good out of her performance. And even, perhaps because of the surround sound of the film, scared me out of my pants a little.

Pieces of Oz: The Great and Powerful aren't entirely perfect. There are cinematic issues where unnecessary close-ups are just plain awkward. Composer Danny Elfman never seemed to end his work on the Edward Scissorhands or Nightmare Before Christmas soundtracks as both scores squeezed into Oz. And some scenes between the characters forces the hilarity a little.

On a whole, however, Raimi made up for its script and direction issues with the films clever *hint hints* towards The Wizard of Oz (1939), wicked casting choices, and special effects. DEFINITELY, its special effects.

From the beginning of Oz: The Great and Powerful and its creatively animated opening credits, the movie is an imaginative ride. The castle at the end of the yellow brick road sparkles off the screen. Oz wasn't just emerald green, but glistening, wondrous, majestic emerald green. The costumes, meadowing fields, the Dark Forest and Munchkinland weren't just blues, yellows, oranges, reds, or violets. Each color was filled with vibrant shades that exploded off the screen. I never wanted to look away.

What I really wanted from Oz was an adventure; just a time to go to the movies and not watch something with an agenda of a villain vs superhero, heavy handed drama or slapstick comedy. Sometimes there needs to be a place in big budget entertainment other than science fiction or futuristic fantasies. While Oz had its little icky spots and ultimately strives to be a great movie, I can settle saying that it was a pretty good one.

A ring of California highschoolers rob millions worth of dollars in possessions and cash from Hollywood elite. The leaders of the pack are Marc (Israel Broussard) and Rebecca (Katie Chang). What starts out as a much-needed friendship for quiet and insecure Marc to headstrong and confident Rebecca becomes a regular routine to steal with their friends - Chloe (Claire Julien), Sam (Taissa Farmiga) and Nicki (Emma Watson).

The bling ring's 'process' is really quite easy. It starts with just opening the doors of cars that line the streets and taking what was in the dashboard or side compartments. Then the kleptomania is morphed with celebritydom. Stealing from Paris Hilton, Orlando Bloom, Megan Fox, and others is literally a no-brainer. They google when a celebrity is out of town, go to their house, find an open door or window, and live in the glory of stolen luxury.

This is how the movie plays out for quite some time. After maybe the third or fourth house is broken into, the movie becomes a bit repetitive. We continuously follow the gang - individually and together - robbing people and spending their loot like water.

The tension becomes strengthened by watching how much more comfortable the teens spend time in the victim's houses rummaging through their closets, beds, entire living spaces. What seemed like carefree harmless fun for them in the beginning becomes ridiculously dangerous. At one point while blowing through Megan Fox's house, Nicki discovers a gun and her sister Sam teases Marc with it uncaring and unknowing if it is loaded or not.

Similar to the chaos of celebritydom and paparazzi tabloids, it's difficult not to feel interested in The Bling Ring. Director Sofia Coppola creates an atmosphere that is strongly naturalistic. You're observing everything that is going on. In one singular take of their break-ins, we watch Rebecca and Marc storm through Audrina Patridge's house from afar on a cliff watching them turn on and off lights, grab what they want, and am-scray.

In this observational way that she created the film, I couldn't help but still wonder if Coppola placed too much subjectivity. She makes a specific point to build the film on a highly factual basis with a great soundtrack and strong young cast.

We see the kids rob, party, and rob some more. They aren't shown being too stupid to not know what they are doing is wrong, or even feeling guilty before, during, or after the crimes they commit. When the gang is eventually caught, you don't feel any sort of justice has been made.

For me, there were two characters I thought were a bit more intriguing and layered than the rest: Marc and Nicki. Marc is an isolated teen who has found a part of himself within this group and seems to be the most self-aware one there, even if he keeps reaping the benefits of their crimes. Nicki - who is played fabulously by Emma Watson - is shown living with her flaky mother who homeschools her daughters on 'The Secret' belief system. When their mother is teaching them about vision boards and asking why they look up to Angelina Jolie, you immediately know the lack of parental guidance in her life. As the rest of the gang's lives are minimally shown, I kept waiting for something with these two to occur because they were worth watching.

Overall though The Bling Ring doesn't scream rich and fame will buy you happiness. It doesn't make a point that parents are wholly responsible for the corrupt of our youth. And it doesn't really make a statement about how these kids thought they were entitled to fame. It plays that with the saturation and glamourization of celebrity culture in our world, there is an obsession with the Bonnie and Clyde thing. Somewhere along the way no matter how absurd these teens behavior and actions are, you kinda find yourself just as immersed in what they're doing as they are with the lifestyle they think they're achieving.

In A Giffy:

Some movie scenes are so joyous and otherwise normal you think maybe there will be an opportunity one day to act one out. Singing In The Rain is one of those that I thought would be easy-peasy.

Mostly this summer the weather here (Florida, sixth ring of hell - your pick) has consistently started out with a sunny morning rumbling into a stormy afternoon. There are enough long-lasting breaks in between where the sky isn't stormy and the land is dry, you think the storm has passed.

It was just during one of these breaks of rain that my family and I decided to go out for an afternoon walk with our pup. My mother and sister strolled with our dog as I set out on my bicycle.

As I'm peddling away and the sky is a bit cloudy as it is after a storm, I had a miniscule thought that maybe it would start raining, and also that I'm usually lucky enough to get home in time before it starts.

No sooner had this thought crossed my mind did I feel the first drop of rain hit my leg. I thought, it'll only sprinkle. No sooner - again - did it start to downpour.

On a Hollywood set, it's one thing. Controlled rain is falling filled with milk to give visibility to the cameras. There's rehearsal time to practice dancing through the puddles. In reality, attempting to sing in the rain is...real.

Pretty much the droplets are hitting at an angle against you, so as you're peddling hard on your bike it's taking ten times the effort to just get one foot further along.

The wind is knocking your jacket hood back. You have to bicycle with one hand on the bars and hold the other up to your face so you can see and not crash.

And the thoughts passing through your head or words coming out of your mouth aren't about an optimistic life with your sweetheart. They're "Oh come on!", 'You've gotta to be kidding me!", "Should I walk instead of ride?".

As lovely as Gene Kelly is on his love high for snagging adorable Debbie Reynolds, and the amazing memorable Singing In The Rain scene that causes every movie goer pure bliss...let me say when it's raining there is no singing. When it rains, it pours. And you just want to get inside for dry clothes and warmth.

Penn portrays Mickey Cohen, a relocated East Coast boxing champion who is taking over California in 1949. At the beginning of the film, we see just how unflinchingly violent he is as all gangsters obviously are.

In the middle of the desert Cohen has Random Guy #1's arms and legs tied to separate vehicles. His punishment from an unknown betrayal is to be ripped in half as the cars pull him in opposite directions. This scene and the ones that follow are successful in proving that no one should mess with Cohen. (Warning to those who are squeamish towards violence - this movie definitely is.)

Josh Brolin plays John O'Hara the face of honor and duty, a cop returned from the war not willing to let Cohen take over this new promising land of Cali. Again at the beginning we see Brolin in action much like Penn.

Trailing Cohen's sick thugs, he finds one of them 'charming' a young lady back to his warehouse apartments, where a gang of men are planning to rape her. O'Hara without a warrant breaks into the place just in time beating up every guy who stands in his way and saving the young woman.

When the chief of police catches wind that O'Hara single-handedly wiped out one of Cohen's prostitution houses, he's assigned to enlist other happy gun and fist slingers to take down Cohen anonymously. The characters who make up this merry band of cop misfits are a great group of underrated actors - Anthony Mackie, Giovanni Ribisi, Michael Peña, Robert Patrick. The group gets along splendidly, and the script doesn't force tension between them or a perfect camaraderie.

The main performances by Brolin and Penn aren't exactly genius. Brolin has a natural charisma and kick-arse attitude that you can easily believe him - especially since he doesn't attempt to caricaturize a 1940s persona.

Penn on the other hand is ridiculously too into his character. The Chicago accent sounds phony in some takes, genuine in others. It doesn't help that much of his dialogue, in contrary to other actors, is filled with 1940s innuendos that would break a smile out on my face. Oh, so funny.

Much of the credit of why this film was entertaining to watch goes to the supporting actors. Ryan Gosling as Jerry - a deputy to Brolin - puts in a modest performance. At first he doesn't want to join Brolin's gangster squad but after an acquaintance of his is shot down in the streets, Jerry is all for revenge.

Actress Emma Stone is meant to be his other half to wake him up from his emotional coma. But I have to say she is really quite boring and uninteresting. As a femme fatale who is tied to Cohen's side, she could have easily made the role more layered but remains more of a tie-in to Gosling because of their Crazy Stupid Love chemistry.

A love interest who proved much more interesting and characteristically perfect for her partner was Mireille Enos as Connie. She plays John's wife who is pregnant. As a female role of the era constricted to the household, she shows brash, emotionality, and independence. In the few scenes Enos shares with Brolin, there is a perfect blend of them showing a genuine love and challenging each other.

Cohen versus O'Hara and his squad comes to a head at the climax of the film set around Christmas. One of the enjoyable parts of the film is the well-choreographed gun fights because you can never guess who is going to come out alive. This one, much like the ones who before, are stylized to a point that heightens the films' thrills and suspense. And when the feuds come to an end, it's a pretty satisfying finale.

Personally when trailers of Gangster Squad were aired in 2012, I thought this would be a motion picture just to laugh and make fun of all the way through because of the ridiculous constant gun fire in public areas and Penn's lack of believability. However about a half hour into the film - despite its flaws - I caught myself immersed. It's not a modern masterpiece on 1940s glam and gun fire but it makes a respectable attempt.

In A Giphy:

If you've never heard of the Turner Classic Movies and you're a mega Classic Hollywood fan, I hope you get in on the fun this August! Known as Summer Under the Stars, this completely un-cut and commercial free tv channel airs a 24 hour marathon for one movie star every day of the month.

This is an event I look forward to every year as a classic movie fan. Its a 31-day almost Christmas-like celebration. Each day you unwrap a new film to watch and discover another movie star to admire. Even if you spend a day watching a movie star you're already familiar with, there's monumental chances you'll learn something new or re-discover something you never thought about before.

TCM's line-up this year is pretty spectacular - made up of underrated character actors and a few legendary ones. Below in bold are some of the ones I have my eyes on to participate and blog about. And if I can squeeze in a few unbolded ones I definitely will! So I have to ask: which stars are you most excited about?

Thursday August 1 – Humphrey Bogart
Friday August 2 – Doris Day
Saturday August 3 – Alec Guinness
Sunday August 4 – Mary Boland
Monday August 5 – Charlton Heston
Tuesday August 6 – Joan Fontaine
Wednesday August 7 – Fred MacMurray
Thursday August 8 – Ramon Novarro
Friday August 9 – Steve McQueen
Saturday August 10 – Lana Turner
Sunday August 11 – Henry Fonda
Monday August 12 – Catherine Deneuve
Tuesday August 13 – Mickey Rooney
Wednesday August 14 – Bette Davis
Thursday August 15 – Gregory Peck
Friday August 16 – Ann Blyth
Saturday August 17 – Wallace Beery
Sunday August 18 – Natalie Wood
Monday August 19 – Randolph Scott
Tuesday August 20 – Hattie McDaniel
Wednesday August 21 – William Holden
Thursday August 22 – Maggie Smith
Friday August 23 – Elizabeth Taylor
Saturday August 24 – Charles Coburn
Sunday August 25 – Clark Gable
Monday August 26 – Jeanne Crain
Tuesday August 27 – Martin Balsam
Wednesday August 28 – Shirley Jones
Thursday August 29 – Glenda Farrell
Friday August 30 – Kirk Douglas
Saturday August 31 – Rex Harrison

The first film was so fluffy! In Despicable Me, Gru was a grumpy aspiring villain with plans to capture da-moooooon. Temporarily adopting three young girls - Agnes, Edtih, and Margo - and making them sell cookies to his arch-nemesis (thus getting important intel on his operations), Gru's icy cold heart is slowly melted. Along with his lovable minions of Twinkie similarities, Gru becomes a father figure to the three girls.

Transitioning into the second film Despicable Me 2, Gru (voiced by Steve Carell) has become a full-fledged father. No longer in the villain business, he is taking up selling jellies and jams. He's still a bit of a grumpygills - at least where his daughters are concerned. He'll dress up as a fairy princess during Agne's birthday when his hired one fails to show up and take on a protective role to daughter Margo when she is becoming interested in boys.

Out of the blue Gru is recruited to join the Anti Villain League by quirky agent Lucy Wilde (voiced by Kristen Wiig). There is a new super villain on the loose who has stolen a secret mutating formula which transforms living things into indestructible monsters. Together, Gru and Lucy not-so-secretly investigate the local mall where this super criminal has been tracked down.

From there on, and even before, I kept waiting for a bit more. Much of the films felt like a checklist of jokes used in the first one. We have a cute flashback of Gru's depressing childhood, inappropriate Hispanic-related humor, and minions - lots and lots of minions. The story itself intertwines in different directions without getting anywhere specific.

Gru's daughters become in love with the idea that he should settle down. Some loudmouth obnoxious neighbor keeps trying to hook him up on dates. One of which is shown between Gru and some Valley California girl, and it's just plain awkward. When Gru realizes the special gal he is in love with, even two animated characters don't share enough chemistry to make it feel not forced.

And, this new villain the whole movie is based around, is really just thrown in there for kicks. One of the suspects Eduardo Perez/El Macho hits so many Hispanic stereotypes it's hard to keep track; his son being a Latin lover who easily disposes of Margo in their brief encounter, numerous comments about lack of hygiene, etc. There isn't any fun development with him being a bad guy. Other than he strapped himself to a shark rigged with dynamite into a exploding volcano. That part was pretty bad ass!

Everyone in the film though is just sorta there. Especially the minions. Almost every scene is strung together with Gru's helpers. You almost become minionized because nothing else in the film is really consistent. We see them in 70s wardrobes, as knights and princesses, baring their naked little bottoms, as a maid cleaning up the house, firefighters, and as furry little purple monsters. They are there, do something cute, and that's the entire film.

Except it really shouldn't be. The film could've been a whole lot better. You still love Gru. You still love the girls. But there's no Julie Andrews as Gru's mother. Some jokes were giggle-worthy but many made the movie stop and go. Like "*joke* *pause for laughter* *another joke* *pause for laughter*". It lacked an overall a through-line - except Gru settles down and it feels a bit forced.

I kept waiting for more of that special magic to return where the studios weren't promoting the minions, the minions, all of those minions. It really is a sad day when I can only give a cute series like Despicable Me a brutal one and a half star. But we still have the first one and I'd like to leave it at that.

In A Giphy:

Reasons why you might not agree with me:

I'm not well-versed in comic book histories
I hated loathed abominated The Avengers
remains slightly disinterested in its related franchise films
really loved Christopher Nolan's Batman series (which once loved now receives backlash)

Something about two hour films of superheros making each other feel uncomfortable with forced humorous one liners in an undetectable plot just isn't my bag. So you may have to excuse that despite the fervent audience dislike for Man of Steel, I'm once again going against the grain to say that I really liked it.

I mean, well, here's the first reason:

Let's just be honest:

Excluding the obvious eye candy, I came out loving Man of Steel because the tale of Superman is a dramatic one; not the usual self-deprecating yet realistic take other blockbusters do.

The first half of the film builds Clark's struggle with his identity and connects it to his relationships with his fathers - his real one from the planet of Krypton Jor-El (Russell Crowe) and adoptive one from Earth Joe (Kevin Costner).

Opening the film with Clark's birth, the planet is facing imminent self-destruction. Placing his final hope into his son, Jor-El infuses Clark with a genetic code of the entire Kryptonian race and sends him to Earth for their race's sole survival. His ideal is that Clark will change the world he will soon be apart of. Throughout the film after Krypton is destroyed, Jor-El guides Kalel to understand he can be both honorably human and Kryptonian, and never fear to show who he is and guide another planet to safety.

When the planet is ultimately destroyed and Kalel has been safely catapulted to Earth, we begin to see how Clark is raised by his adoptive parents, Joe (Kevin Costner) and Diane (Diane Lane)

Told in flashbacks, we see how Clark spent his youth saving those in peril - a young woman getting hit on in a bar, a school bus full of his classmates that skidded off a bridge and into a lake. When he could have easily beat the pulp out of the guy in the former, or could have let the bus sink to save his own skin in the latter, Clark battles against his powerful intuitive connection to rescue.

Both parts of these relationships are told in a way that we are not spoonfed how Clark creates the iconic blue and red suit. Neglecting the "let's see how the group bands together against evil" ploy, Clark is trying to figure out how he bands togetherhis indestructible powers from Krypton and his human sense of morality.

In his adulthood, Clark has jumped from job to job, any place where he can keep his head low. On an archaeological dig in the Artic, an alien ship has been found by the government. Reporter Lois Lane (Amy Adams) from The Daily Planet goes to the exhibition site to investigate, where she is the sole witness to Clarks' superpowers.

Clark's identity is not only known to Lane. Hailing from the regions of Krypton villain General Zod has trailed Clark to Earth hunting down the genetic codex. Threatening the human race to turn over Superman, Earth will face complete destruction. In Metropolis, Clark is forced to own up to his identity to save mankind and battle Zod.

The second act of the film is dedicated solely more on the battle between General Zod (Michael Shannon), love interest Lois Lane (Amy Adams), and the complete transformation of Clark into Superman.

For me, comic book blockbusters have sorta become a generic genre of shoveling realistic yet self-deprecating tales of superheros. Man of Steel breaks a lot of rules. More than a summer popcorn flick, it comes across more as an observational-styled film about the origins of an iconic superhero.

Man of Steel isn't perfect. Considering Zac Snyder's reputation with spartan blockbuster 300, and flops of Sucker-Punch and Watchmen, he has finally at least mastered to use slow motion sparingly. Cinematically, the CGI proves to be extraordinary. Seeing Superman fly around Earth and the battle scenes between him and General Zod are some of the crispest cinematography of the year. There are some disappointments with the plot choices everyone online has become irate about, but I tend to see them in a different light and won't go on about them here.

If you can get past the dramatic turn of Superman's world, I thought there was plenty to enjoy. From Henry Cavill's genteel yet powerful Clark Kent to Michael Shannon's malicious General Zod, and the supporting actors like Kevin Costner, Russell Crowe, and Amy Adams, the rest of the film is quite fun.

In A Giphy:

With that sunny blond hair, hypnotizing blue eyes, and effervescent personality, Doris Day to me is one of those rare Classic Hollywood personalities that are a dime a dozen.

Her kitschy filmography simply wouldn't work in today's world. The stories were a bit flimsy, not really aiming for anything in particular except a simple joy ride of song, dance, and a handsome beau. She was a triple-threat comedienne who knew how to pout her lips, give a gleaning eye, and deliver lines with a cheeky undertone that removed some of the melodramatic cheese. No matter her co-partner, most popularly Rock Hudson or Cary Grant, Day had a way of teaming up with actors, and not just being a love interest; but serve full dishes of A+ plus charm.

Though she's been missing from the screen since 1968, but never officially retired, it was a treat that TCM dedicated one of the Summer Under The Stars days to her. Day's silky smooth yet smoky singing voice is no doubt a delight to anyone's ears, but she always somehow mixed lady with a bit of boyish charm. From the showstopping 1940s to the chic 1960s, Day can fail never turn to a frown upside down.

It's A Great Feeling

starring, Dennis Morgan, Doris Day, Jack Carson

Starring Doris Day plays as a young country girl Jane Adams who teams up with actor Jack Carson and Irish tenor Dennis Morgan, who try to help her become a big Hollywood star.

Try is the most operative word. Carson and Morgan convince Adams to gain a screen test almost every possible way. Tracking down one of the Hollywood studio heads, Carson and Morgan dress her up for everywhere where she could be potentially spotted - Schwabb's Pharmacy as a soda fountain waitress, elevator operator, even taxi cab driver. There she is, batting her eyes and pursing her lips every time.

When they finally secure a screen test, it's a French number where everything absolutely goes awry. Eventually, Adams succumbs to return home and to her wed her childhood lover, Jeffrey Bushfinkle. On the train trip that big Hollywood producer she so tried so hard to impress overhears her singing and offers her a contract. Too bad she's fed up and hellbent on getting to her beau. To keep the mystery, he who plays this part - you really have to see!

In only her third motion picture, this film was used as a tool to make Day more popular with movie goers. It's A Great Feeling is a delightful movie that not only pokes fun at itself but also gave Day an opportunity to share the screen with some of the biggest stars of the day.

Some of the really marvelous ones include: a random encounter with Danny Kaye at the train station, Edward G Robinson living up to his tough guy role, and Jane Wyman, who appears with her real-life daughter Maureen. Two of the most memorable appearances may be with Joan Crawford, who in a wardrobe shop breaks into one of her dramatic scenes from "Mildred Pierce" slapping both Carson and Morgan. She comments before dashing off, "I do that in all my pictures." And that second one is that cameo of Jeffrey Bushfinkle.

It's a Great Feeling is an example of how Day's charm can be the linking ingredient in an otherwise stringy-scripted comedy. Many one-liners may go over some's head since Carson and Morgan aren't necessarily Bob Hope and Bing Crosby, but the chemistry between the three keeps the film a nostalgic and sweet 1940s flick.

"If you were a tree, what kind of tree would you be?" When I first heard actress Amy Adams answer quite blondily in the film Drop Dread Gorgeous (1999), "Green," I was immediately in love.

Years later, and this four time Academy Award nominated actress is still kicking ass and taking names in every film, photoshoot, red carpet event - you name it. You just can't merely call her an actress. She's a super one.

From her early start as the bimbo classmate trying out for Miss Mount Rose American Teen Princess in Drop Dead Gorgeous and playing inexplicably adorable Daddy's girl in Catch Me If You Can, she's incomprehensibly able to fit every single role.

Enchanted

The Fighter

Her supporting role in the 2005 film Junebug confirms how easily she's able to capture then break our hearts. Not appearing in the film for more than a few scenes as pregnant June, she earned the Academy's attention with a heartbreaking scene where she grieves over the loss of her newborn baby. This was the first of a few downright worthy Oscar nominations to come.

With Enchanted, Adams made every little girls' dream come true by transforming the 2D princess into a 3D world. Critics praised and audiences had no choice but to agree; playing Giselle paved the way for Adams like Julie Andrews and Marry Poppins. She was exquisitely innocent, girlish, and had a heart of unbelievable gold.

And, then this 5'4" firecracker just keeps churning out versatility like any other. Adams is able to curse up a storm and battle against five New Jersey sisters in The Fighter, and then change into lovable effervescent friend of puppets in The Muppets.

These little name droppers don't even cover some of her invincible roles as out-nunning Meryl Streep in Doubt, going Marilyn Monroe-esque in Miss Pettigrew Lives For A Day, or tackling leading lady parts in Sunshine Cleaning. The funny thing about Amy Adams is even if the movies she's in sucks - which is very rare - she always comes out as a favorite. (The Wedding Date - comes to mind).

Let's just take a moment to admire her face, because it's honestly not one too bad to gawk at.

Many actresses can well-disguise themselves in indies and blockbusters, but somehow their transformations are always tracked - maybe because their off-screen fame is bigger than their on-screen ones, or their pathetically more valued for their beauties than their talent. Adams, along with a small special legion of leading ladies, has been able to not only take her doughy wide eyes, red hair, and overwhelming talent to be more than just a clothes hanger on the red carpet or

She has a presence that breaks conventionality; she is every girls' best friend yet can still hang out with the dudes; ebulliently feminine yet tomboyishly charming. You want to be her friend but might anxiously await for her to awesomely curse you out.

"I think a lot of times we don't pay enough attention to people with a positive attitude because we assume they are naive or stupid or unschooled. But what if she sees the truth about her life, understands it all and ultimately makes the choice that this is what she wants? Is she goofy? Yes. But she could ultimately be the most intelligent person in the movie."

From an employee at the gap and musical dining theater to a four time Academy Award nominated powerhouse. When commenting on one of her Oscar appearances, Adams admitted to having an existential crises sitting next to Sean Penn and Meryl Streep; questioning she didn't belong there and that it all could be taken away. Nobody in their right mind can ever take away what is rightfully hers; a shining amazingly talented beacon in cinema. IF IT EVER DID, I think my eternal crush quota would be shot to hell in a heartbeat.

There's plenty of Oscar gold in David O'Russells next flick American Hustle, starring Christian Bale, Bradley Cooper, Amy Adams, Jennifer Lawrence, and Jeremy Renner. Despite that the universe including myself is a fan of all (except Jennifer Lawrence, that's just me), Amy Adams really stands out. I sorta thought the first 30 seconds of the trailer was funny....and not in a good way.

+ I'm ready to dance:Ellen will be hosting the Oscars in 2014. Is this somehow an Academy decision to make amends for Seth MacFarlane's hosting this year? However they asked her to sign on, I don't doubt this outcome.

+ Actor Peter Capaldi was announced as the new twelth doctor for Doctor Who. I'm not an expert on the BBC series (I haven't gotten passed the David Tennant years YET), but by the looks of this gif set from The Thick of It, I think time and the universe will continue to stand down...for the most part.

I watch Hell on Wheels for this guy -->
(Anson Mount). And you should too. Also the general plot setting of the Wild Wild West and the music isn't too bad either. If you're into the actual production value of a show.

+ Harrison Ford continues to be one of many Grumpy Gods of Hollywood stating in his Jimmy Kimmel Live interview that two movies he co-stars in - Achorman and Expendables - are complete ****. He's Indiana Jones, Blade Runner, and Han Solo. I think he can feel however he wants to about the movies he's in.

+ Early reviews for Goddess of Sparkly Candy Katy Perry's latest album are raving. She's the only pop star I follow these days so I'm happy. Perhaps the world will come to an end when her and Goddess of Cray-Cray Lady Gaga plan to perform at the VMA's and both of their albums are set to release in October.

Are you excited for?
+ The Monuments Men, directed by George Clooney. As a World War II buff, I've been waiting for this story for a long time. It doesn't look overly heroic, and I like the lowdown noir-like song for the trailer.

+ Her starring Joaquin Phoenix and Amy Adams. About a man who falls in love with his operating system. Director Spike Jones has created another wanderlustic indie I can't wait for.

From The Blogosphere:
+ Margaret is revved up for The Counselor

+ If you're not following dundermifflinscranton on tumblr, you're wrong.

+ Absolutely love Millie's review for The Wolverine.

+ Sofia at Film Flare interviews Guinevere Turner, co-writer of the brilliantly disturbing, American Psycho.

Latest Posts:Summer Under the Stars Tribute for Doris Day, and my first entry for a new series here at The Drama Llama: Eternal Crush: Amy Adams.

Please forgive my lack of foreign film knowledge. Because I'd only heard of Catherine Deneuve - star of popular psychological thriller Repulsion - but didn't have the inclination to watch any of her films.

I'm not even quite sure I knew who she was until I realized I may have seen her in an obnoxious episode of Nip/Tuck, which was promptly blacked out of my mind....as every episode of Nip/Tuck inevitably was. Obviously, I never really knew what to make of her.

Selecting her as a pick for my series to celebrate TCM's Summer Under the Stars programming, I still don't know what to make of her but in a much more positive way.

Let's please state the obvious that Catherine is plain gorgeous with her wide eyes, sweetly angelic face, and blond locks. At a mere first glance it's easy to see her as a baby face of the 60s and 70s, and once your eyes are set on her chic wardrobe throughout her filmography, it's even more understandable why she is a recognized icon of Hollywood.

It's easy to point out if an actress is just a pretty face or not. Deneuve can easily fall into the category of the blond type, but I discourage anyone from doing so.

Tuning into her films of the day on TCM, it's hard for me to describe what enormous talent she is. Still kicking it now in films and television, her career has last decades. And she is still as gracious as ever. To pick some of her films that struck me most, I'd have to go with Sauvage, Le (The Savage) andThe Last Metro.

Sauvage, Le is an off beat purely rumpus adventure. A young woman tries to escape her wildly passionate (read: quite abusive - in today's world) Venezuelan fiance with a stranger on his island.

One of my newly discovered and favorite flicks of all-time, Sauvage, Le verges on a silly romantic escapade. From the opening of the film at a celebration of her soon-to-be marriage, Deneuve is lost in an endless line of her partner's friends and family members to gret. Within the first few moments, we see her as altogether confused, tired, and thinking of a Plan B.

Deneuve in the middle of the night leaves her fiance, and attaches herself to an apartment acquaintance who gets sucked into helping her ditch her past life. The chase is on with fun and wild antics with a destructive car race, on the runway of an airport, and to a stranded island.

Throughout the film, I was just struck immediately by how truly humorous, feisty, and bold Deneuve was. Similar to her character's relationship with her fiance, Deneuve relentlessly latches herself onto a loner, just as hot tempered partner in escapism (Martin). One minute he's chasing her around his house, the next she's daring him to declare some semblance of love to her. They made up a wonderfully funny yet romantic duo I really just wanted to watch again and again. Who ultimately is the "savage" is completely up to you.

With The Last Metro again I was surprised by the Deneuve's transformation. Her changes in characters are not blindly obvious. She seems to slip in and through different period pieces, genres, and characters with wondrous and slick chameleon skill.

During the Nazi Occupation, a woman hides her Jewish husband in the theater they run. As she struggles to keep his presence concealed, she finds herself falling in love with the leading man she is starring opposite of in their latest play.

Shining from underneath the 1940s garb, balancing between maintaining control and flitting confusion, Deneuve finds a way to be vibrant throughout the film despite it's calm storybuilding. Almost unrecognizable in this film compared to Sauvage, Le Deneuve is quietly yet stunningly demure.

The film overall though a bit slow and not quite finding its feet, won 10 Ceasar awards when it was released including Best Actress for Catherine Deneuve. Like her performance in the former flick, and this one, she has such an unyielding yet unexpected quite presence, it's something to behold over and over again.

(Excuse the cliches, Bette Davis. I'm sure what I'm about to say could come off as plain old sucking up. But the description of your career just can't be denied.)

Davis was an unstoppable force on-screen. In every role, even her most vulnerable ones, there wasn't a person or circumstance that could tip her over. Her presence - above so many actresses and even actors - is assertive, complex, and almost brutish. Under make-up, laced in historical costumes, and across varying genres of drama, she paved the way for any aspiring character actress who strive to grapple their screen time with gusto.

Her film career is legendary but sometimes I feel we should thank her more deeply is her off-screen personality. If there was ever an actress, uninhibited by the studio system or press, it was Davis. Just as unquivering on-screen, she had one of the strongest and truest candid personalities. She's lauded for being tough-minded, but she was also rarely bitter hearted - you can see for yourself in her candids.

If anyone asked her something, she'd give you the answer cold turkey. So many stars today I feel try to come off as the girl-next-door; each actress has a brand to fit in with the women's magazines, the fashion lines, the twitterverse. Even in a dramatic role, sometimes they're a little sheepish. And, that only gets them so far. One of the most remembered actresses of Classic Hollywood, Davis had guts the size of grapefruits and wasn't afraid to show 'em to ya in film, through press, or in person.

Anyone who's anyone who love film, generally admires Bette Davis. If you aren't familiar with her, start with any one of her films because in any one of them you'll find a performance that's powerful, perfected, and robust; The Letter, Marked Woman, Jezebel, Now Voyager, Dark Victory - to name a few.

Today I thought it was quite perfect just to revel in Bette Davis; a powerful and compelling personality that shines.

"I'm the nicest goddamn dame that ever lived."

Katy Perryreleased new single Roar. Moments later Lady Gaga's new release single Applause was out. The media is pitching these two mega pop stars against each other but hands down, I really only have Perry in mind. Somehow in the pop world of catching yet fluffy empowerment songs, she comes out on top. Don't get me wrong, I like poppy empowerment songs...but sometimes they're too just melodramatic (i.e. Sara Bareilles' Brave...). From her second mega-selling second album to her third one Prism, she's keeping her personality and life experiences but going with a more natural style. In other words: I love her.

Not hating on Lady Gaga, but I just don't know who she is as a person/persona anymore. And I'm not sure she does either. The beat is catchy, but the lyrics are just about being entitled to superficiality and fame. Who has two hands and isn't clapping? This girl!

+ 27 Craziest America's Next Top Model Photoshoots doesn't nearly cover the ridiculous unrelated "challenges" these poor contestants have had to endure. I can't believe this is in at its 20th season.

+ New posters for HBO's Boardwalk Empire have been released and I'm not too impressed. Not that I've been watching the show; don't have HBO nor a streaming service with it. But, honestly. I could have done better photoshopping with Paint Shop Pro.

+ Photos for Divergent have been released. The Hunger Games trilogy turned out to be a big disappointment (mostly laying blame on the third book Mockingjay). Veronica Roths' series is supposed to be better. Is this true?! I need a new better YA series where the main female character doesn't depend on a boy for everything.

+ In 'People Who Have Too Much Time On Their Hands' News: American Scientists to break down John Lennons' Genetic Code from a Telephone Booth.

From the blogosphere:
+ Kay at Movie Star Makeover gives an informative post about Judy Garland's beauty transformation from Dorothy Gale to Esther Smith

+ La Vie en Rose was my number one pick at Ruth's Question of the Week about favorite biopics.

+ Inspired Ground shares 10 lessons learned from Black Swan

+ Margaret gives a hilarious review of The Great Gatsby (2013) one movie I couldn't even try to finish...yet.

Latest Posts:This week we pay homage to honestly bitchin dame Bette Davis and blond bombshell Catherine Deneuve apart of TCM's Summer Under The Stars.

Some Reasons I'm Underwhelmed for Catching Fire

Can I Be A Gif Blog Now?

Unstoppable (2010)

When In Crisis Watch Ellen

Songs to Cool Off This Summer

Science is Sexy: A Tribute to Ian Malcolm

Friday Catch-Up: Leonardo DiCaprio Saves the Candy World

Oz: The Great and Powerful (2013)

The Bling Ring (2013)

No Singing In The Rain for Me

Gangster Squad (2012)

TCM Summer Under the Stars 2013

Despicable Me 2 (2013)

Man of Steel (2013)

Summer Under the Stars 2013: Doris Day

Eternal Crush: Amy Adams

Saturday Stuff: New Doctor Who is A Cussing God

Summer Under the Stars 2013: Catherine Deneuve

Summer Under The Stars: Bette Davis

Saturday Stuff: The Only Thing Not Leaked Early