THE PROCLAMATIONS OF DANTAY

A Series With The Guy That Played Joey!

2011-02-24T16:43:00.000Z

EPISODES

Created by David Krane and Jeffrey Klarik.

Starring Matt LeBlanc, Stephen Mangan and Tamsin Greig.

Despite its rocky start, Episodes has turned in to something really special. A simple story about two British show runners trying to make it big in LA who struggle to adjust to the change of pace leading to drastic repercussions on their relationship. Matt LeBlanc is funny as a larger than life alter ego of himself while Tamsin Greig was hilerous as the quick witted Bev alongside Stephan Mangan as the bumbling, old romantic Sean.

But the real stars here were John Pankow and the goregously mezmormising Kathleen Rose Perkins. Perkins' character Carol is one of the most investable characters in the show and her struggle against being successful on her own merit or by shagging her way up the ladder is one of the strongest plot lines. Pankow plays the pompous, womanizing and all round ass hole, Merc Lapidus. But Pankow establishes Merc in seconds and his witty insults towards British culture had me in stitches.

Another highlight was the onscreen chemistry between Greig and Mangan, I'm almost a litle surprised to discover they weren't a couple because they bounce off each so well.

My favourite scene is easily from episode five, when Bev pours her heart out to Carol and both women moan and talk about each others insecurities over a spliff. Comedy gold in more ways than one!

But forget what the critics say and don't believe me, check this series out for yourself!

McAdams gave me a Morning Glory!

2011-02-20T18:40:00.000Z

It's been over a month since I did a film review, so it's time to whip one out for this month. So read on if your interested in finding out what I thought about Rachel McAdams' latest flick, Morning Glory.

MORNING GLORY

Starring Rachel MCADAMS, Diane KEATON & Harrison FORD.

Directed by Roger MITCHELL

This movie almost slipped under the radar for me and had it not been for the beautiful Rachel McAdams, I probably wouldn't of given it a look at all. After fantastic performances in films such as The Time Travellers Wife and State of Play, McAdams pulls it of the bag again as the plucky Becky Fuller, a young, ambitious TV news producer who wants nothing more than to be running the most successful breakfast news show in America.

After being released by her local network, Becky captures a dream role at a New York network. But the job isn't as easy as she first imagined and her skills as a producer are really tested under the watchful eye of her new superiors and colleagues who just believe that she is a naive little girl in a big man's world. And no one is more under that impression than pretentious, egotistical but legendary news anchor, Mike Pomeroy played by Harrison Ford.

Quite happy to live out the rest of his contract doing as little as possible, Mike is forcibly employed by a desperate Becky as the struggling breakfast show, Daybreak, faces the chop all together. But Mike's off and on screen bickering with co-anchor, Colleen Peck played by the wonderful Diane Keaton, cause Becky further problems. But when the ratings start to rise, Becky learns that controversy is the key to success and pushes her team to it's limits with daring stunts, embarrassing features and everything else other than actual news...sound familiar? *cough* ITV's Daybreak *cough*

Matt Mallory, John Pankow and Jeff Goldblum supported the main cast fantastically, particularly Pankow whose chemistry with McAdams shone through. But McAdams' onscreen partner, Patrick Wilson, failed to impress as love interest Adam. However in all honesty, he isn't really given a look in - I'm not sure if the writers decided to write him in last minute to help appeal to it's female audience better, it was almost as if they were forcing unnaturally into a Rom-Com genre when the rest of the film really wasn't! It's almost a shame and does slightly weaken the overall movie.

And as the film develops, a funny relationship is forged between hardworking Becky and cranky Mike as she tries to force her man to come around to her way of thinking. However it's only when he risks losing the only person in his life that actually cares, Mike is forced to make a rash move to keep Becky at IBS's Daybreak.

All in all, Morning Glory is an amusing flick for anyone who wants some light hearted fun. And it's audience was a weird one, quite a few more men turned out to the pictures than most "fun" flicks and when I managed to get the chance to see it, I was a bit confused that I appeared to be the only man accompanied by a female partner...the rest, seemed to be watching it alone!? What did they think Morning Glory was...a porno? Thankfully, they appeared to keep their hands away from their crutch!

Definitely worth a watch though, despite my nitpicking, I did enjoy the film and I feel it was a positive start to a New Year in Hollywood! :)

Ten Songs I Shouldn't Love...But Do!

2011-02-11T21:22:00.001Z

That's right, this article is exactly what it says on the tin. Ten songs I absolutely love but really shouldn't. From Robbie Williams classics to the only song by the Buggles anyone actually remembers. But I don't just want to tell you mine, I want to know all of your guilty pleasures too. What songs make you jump up and boogie while everyone vacates to the bar, what tunes do you sing when your driving on your own, what hits are your embarrassed to admit liking. Whether I've already listed them or not, shout your guilty little secrets to the sky...or just to the comment bar below. Either way, lets share some dirty secrets.

These are in order at all, just in order of what comes to mind.

1# - Robbie Williams - Rudebox. I don't know why the words "Do the Rudebox. Cause you so nasty!" appeal to me at all but for some reason, do! This song is crap, I know that, it's from one of the worst albums in history...but still, Rudebox does something for me. So I think you should all "Shake your Rudebox!".

2# - The Undertones - Teenage Kicks. Remember the Undertones? You kids have probably never of heard of them but some of you may have heard there extremely cheesy hit, Teenage Kicks. Why do I love this? I sang this when I fronted a rock band back at school and it went down a storm. It's some what nostalgic I guess and while it's a little annoying, is a classic in my book!

3# - Kelly Clarkson - Because of You. I'm sorry but I love Kelly Clarkson, so much so I'm not even embarrassed to admit this. My friends always take the piss out of this little fan crush but I'm sorry, she is awesome. And if anyone says other wise, I hit them. Because of You is a beautiful song, the version with Reba McEntire is perfection in song form.

4# - Christina Aguilera - Hurt. Despite not even knowing how to spell the artists name (I had to check ITunes before I submitted this post), I love Hurt by Christina Aguilera. She lays a beautiful vocal on top of a moving medley but for some reason, everyone hates Christina. It's a sin to hate Christina...and after her Superbowl performance, I'm starting to see why!

5# - The Buggles - Video Killed The Radio Star. No one on earth should like this song but unfortunately, I do. This song is annoying, cheesy and terribly auto tuned by for some reason I can't stop listening to it. Maybe it's due to my love of Life On Mars/Ashes to Ashes but for some reason, I always seem to belt this song!

6# - Aerosmith - I Don't Want To Miss A Thing. It's the ultimate in cheesy rock ballads but this song has many memories for me. This was the song me and boys belted out on Rockband, then in the karaoke bar and then at my leaving party before coming to university. And for that reason, I love it...even though maybe I shouldn't.

7# - Adele - Make You Feel My Love. It's not particularly cool to like Adele but her cover of Bob Dylan's Make You Feel My Love always takes my breath away. It's not so much a guilty pleasure but it's not one I'd readily admit to liking. Much love to Adele as she is currently her new album, she's doing it for big guys and girls everywhere.

8# - Cyndi Lauper - Total Eclipse Of The Heart. This really is a guilty pleasure. I actually remember hearing this for the first time as I was rummaging around the storage workshop when I was about nine or ten and I found my Dad's old cassette player and cassette collection. For some reason, this song always stuck in my mind and I always find myself singing it when it comes on the radio.

9# - The Corrs - Dreams. It's not so much Dreams, anything from the first three album feels significant to me as they were always on in my car as a kid. Mum was a massive fan and I think her and Dad even watched them in concert once. It rubbed off on me and I love sneakily listening to a bit of the Corrs. But Dreams was also by Fleetwood Mac, so it kind of felt appropriate to select that hit!

10# - Lady Gaga - Poker Face (Acoustic Cover). Is a straight guy even allowed to like Lady Gaga. Personally, I don't care, I never was one to follow trends or dominant hegemony's. Gaga is a good song writer, producer and singer. The acoustic version of Poker Face proves that and that's why I'm not ashamed to put this on my list.

So now you know mine, what are yours. List them below in my comments and I may even talk about them in a few blogs time! See you all next time. Don't forget to follow me, you guys seem to be such losers when it comes to following. Follow me damn it!

What next, Nolan to Arsenal for fifty million!?

2011-02-01T08:01:00.000Z

As the news settles in this morning that Newcastle forward Andy Carroll has joined Liverpool for a record breaking fee believed to be in the region of thirty five million pounds, football fans across the country will wake up this morning wondering how high transfer fees will spiral to next! With only one cap under his belt and a current injury hanging around, is he really worth it?

Not only that but leaving the Merseyside club, Spaniard Fernando Torres joined Chelsea for fifty million making him the fourth most 'valuable' in the world. Unlike Carroll's brow raising deal, Torres' move is less controversial with numerous pundits suggesting that the player deserves the high price tag despite a dip in form at the start of this season. But is football going mad? Are transfer fees becoming a little ridiculous!?

With the country suffering through a recession, is it fair that large quantities of money are bouncing around from club to club? Should players such as Torres be earning one hundred thousand a week while our nurses are getting no more than twenty five grand a year or our fireman on about twenty eight million!?

Newcastle fans won't be pleased to have lost their most valuable player and manager Alan Pardew will have a lot of explaining to do at his next press conference. Who can he turn to fill the void left by the Geordie hitman? Having not secured any type of replacement before the deadline closed at midnight, can Newcastle really survive with only unreliable Shola Ameobi, inexperienced Leon Best or nineteen year old Nile Ranger at their disposal.

And having promised to keep the services of the Magpies number nine, Pardew will have to face the wrath of the passionate Geordie fans. They'll be angry that public enemy number one, Mike Ashley sold Carroll down the river but the realists will understand the offer was too tasty to turn down!

Spotlight #8

2011-01-20T10:00:00.012Z

Being Human returns to our screens this Sunday in the UK on BBC Three so I thought I'd take a moment to expose it to those who are unfamiliar with the BBC hit. A fantasy comedy about three friends who live together in a house in Bristol in an attempt to live normal lives. But this is a little tricky when one of you is dead. It also doesn't help when your two housemates happen to be a vampire and a werewolf!

This incredibly hilarious show stars the beautiful Lenora Crichlow as ghost Annie, the talented Aidan Turner as vampire Mitchell and the charming Russell Tovey as the bumbling George. Now in it's third series, George's girlfriend and now werewolf (courtesy of George) Nina played by Sinead Keenan has also joined the main cast.

The show has received critical acclaim over the years and has been such a success, those thieving Americans have made a remake for an American audience...don't have many ideas of their own these days!

With nemesis Henrick back from the dead, what is in store for our foursome this season!? We'll just have to wait and see. But good news for Eastenders fans, particular those of the recently departed Stacey Slater; actress Lacey Turner stars in the first episode! But if you can't wait until episode one, check out this back stage sneak peak below.

What's Going On Pardew?

2011-01-18T15:18:00.000Z

I never really rated Alan Pardew as manager and I was shocked when he was appointed as Chris Hughton's replacement at Newcastle late last year. All that Hughton had achieved over his year in charge was more than enough to justify keeping him in the hot seat until at least the end of the 2010/11 season. He didn't need to go and certainly not for the likes of Alan Pardew.

However, like everything we eventually just get on board - unsettling the ship will only do harm to the club. But so far, Pardew has failed to make an impression. Despite a good result against West Ham, he didn't get things right in that appalling defeat to Stevenage or the draw against rivals Sunderland and his inactivity in the transfer market is worrying. His promise to bring in two new players has yet to be fulfilled and with time running out on the clock, he better get in there quick.

We lost out on a couple of a good partners for Andy Carroll and it seems as if Pardew was looking in all the wrongs places. Instead of looking at proven Premiership performers such as Roque Santa Cruz and Robbie Keane, he was interested in Championship striker Jay Bothroyd - a player not good enough for Newcastle at this current time. And now he seems to have changed his thinking completely to make up for the lack of transfers by claiming Ameobi and Best are now good enough. Granted Shola Ameobi can do the job as a backup striker for the time being but any manager who thinks he's capable of being in the squad week in week out is crazy. The star performances against Sunderland and West Ham were one offs, that isn't going to come every week from either player.

We also need to strengthen our back four by purchasing a stronger right back, perhaps letting someone like Ryan Taylor go to help fund the move of a new addition. And our left side, a position that has never been properly filled on Tyneside, really needs looking at again.

As for Pardew, only time will tell whether he can keep the ship steady and holding out against Spurs will be his next battle. A win is unlikely but a draw will be an important point on the board. And the following game against Fulham is a must win, particularly with a probable defeat against the Red Devils looming.

Am I Now A Virgo?

2011-01-14T20:43:00.000Z

According to recent reports, the Moon's gravitational pull which forces the earth to twist on it's axis, hasn't been accounted for since the zodiac signs were discovered over 2000 years ago. Which could mean that the star signs that people associate themselves with based on when their birthday falls within in a year, could in fact be completely inaccurate.

Due to the theory known as the Earth's "wobble", scientists believe the star signs have been shifted forward by approximately a month meaning those of us who consider ourselves Libra's, such as myself, are now Virgo's as the sign now applies to the dates September 16th to October 30th, while Libra now picks up from the 30th of October and continues until November 23rd. What a bummer!

According to Pedro Braganca who said in a October 2007 article written for LiveScience. "This wobble--called precession--is caused by the gravitational attraction of the Moon on Earth's equatorial bulge."

"Over the past two-and-a-half millennia, this wobble has caused the intersection point between the celestial equator and the ecliptic to move west along the ecliptic by 36 degrees, or almost exactly one-tenth of the way around" He added.

There are surveys that believe that one third of Americans believe in starsigns, the number is thought to be very similar in the UK too. So for those of you who do follow your sign, here is the new setup:

Capricorn: Jan. 20-Feb. 16

Aquarius: Feb. 16-March 11

Pisces: March 11-April 18

Aries: April 18-May 13

Taurus: May 13-June 21

Gemini: June 21-July 20

Cancer: July 20-Aug. 10

Leo: Aug. 10-Sept. 16

Virgo: Sept. 16-Oct. 30

Libra: Oct. 30-Nov. 23

Scorpio: Nov. 23-Dec. 17

Sagittarius: Dec. 17-Jan. 20

But these aren't set in stone. It is being debated that there is actually a thirtieth sign called Ophiuchus and if that is indeed true, Scorpio could go through further changes. Stay tuned for more updates!

Still Not Met Their Mother.

2011-01-12T16:58:00.002Z

HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER

6x13 - Bad News

Starring JOSH RADNOR, COBIE SMULDERS, JASON SEGEL, ALYSON HANNIGAN & NEIL PATRICK HARRIS.
Directed by PAMELA FRYMAN

How I Met Your Mother returned to fine form after a slippery start to Season Six with episode 13, Bad News. As we counted down to the dramatic ending that is set to change the course of the series, we followed Lily and Marshall once again as they worried about their fertility while friend Robyn was taunted by former coworker and rival Sandy Rivers at work in her new position at Worldwide News.

The episode really was thrilling as we were taken on emotional roller coaster that came to a dramatic climatic in the closing minute. We laughed and unexpectedly cried as Lily comforted Marshall with some heartbreaking news and it's something none of us saw coming.

Alyson Hannigan's other half Alexis Denisof was in fine form as Sandy Rivers, Robin's old cohost from Metro News One while Bill Fagerbakke and Suzie Plakson were delightful as ever as Marshall's parents. While Jennifer Morrison's character Zoey has seemingly been forgotten, you can almost let it slide as Ted's nemesis has weighed this season down like a dead weight, so hopefully it's a sign that she won't be rushing back to our screens anytime soon.

And finally Barney's doppelganger was finally revealed, even though Lily was convinced the man in the white lab jacket was still her womanizing friend. Only fitting that Barney's alter ego was a fertility doctor, something that even Barney tried to use to his advantage.

Of course, we can't forgotten the brilliant countdown that was used to keep us hooked until the very end. While easy to miss, for those that did notice it could of been rather distracting at first but the ultimate payoff at the end made the whole gimmick make sense and when the bad news was finally revealed, it made the countdown all the more meaningful.

Follow Me, Add Me, Subscribe to Me and all that jazz...

2011-01-12T15:51:00.001Z

You can follow me by joining the Google Friend Connect application at the bottom of the page. For the lazy people amongst us, here is the direct link. CLICK ME!

However you can also follow me on Twitter by pressing this button here. This is exclusive to Twitter members only but it only takes a few seconds to join so if your not already tweeting, then jump on the bird!

You can also join my Youtube channel, DTT240991. Please subscribe to me by pressing the lovely golden button at the top of my profile.

And if you really want to stalk me then you can add me as a friend on Facebook...but I'll probably deny your request you crazy stalker!

Thanks for all your support.

Spotlight #7

2011-01-03T10:00:00.000Z

First Spotlight of the new year goes to the band The Script and their latest album: Science & Faith.

Follow-up to The Script's debut album from Dubliners Danny O’Donoghue, Mark Sheehan and Glen Power. "For The First Time" is the lead track and is the inspirational key to The Script’s second album Science & Faith - an addictive blend of hip hop rhythms, flowing melodies, sparkling hooks and poignant, story-spinning lyrics, with Danny’s mellifluous soulful vocals riding high over huge, anthemic choruses. Finding weighty, emotion-packed mini-epics came thick and fast, Science & Faith is far from a difficult second album. (Amazon)

When Script first exploded on the scene in 2008, I wasn't a huge fan and it wasn't really until they released their third single, Breakeven that I decided to check them out properly. I was pleasantly surprised and they quickly joined my collection of alternative artists such as Keane, Coldplay and U2. When Nothing was released late last year, I eagerly awaited their new album despite being disappointed by the lead track For the First Time when it was released in September, but I was very pleased with my purchase when I finally downloaded it just after Christmas.

As I said, Nothing was almost an instant hit for me, with beautiful melodies and a cracking chorus and while initially disliking For the First Time, it has since grown on me. If You Ever Come Back has a very similar sound to Nothing but the lyrics didn't seem to speak to me as much as the latter. This = Love is one of my favourite tracks from the album, with really rhythmic versus and an explosive, catchy chorus. I usually find the title tracks are often one of the worst numbers on the album but Science & Faith is an exceptionally good tune!

The album isn't quite as eclectic as their first album, The Script, but is packed full of brilliant songs that will have you toe tapping for hours. If you loved the 2008 album, you'll love this too. Buy it at iTunes, here.

Never Trust A Tourist

2011-01-02T16:55:00.000Z

THE TOURIST

Directed by FLORIAN HENCKELL VON DONNERSMARCK.

Starring JOHNNY DEPP, PAUL BETTANY, TIMOTHY DALTON and ANGELINA JOLIE.

Panned by critics, unloved by audiences and a huge loss at the box office for Depp and Jolie's winter action thriller but does it really deserve all the bad press!? That's quite a loaded question so lets simplify that shall we - did I like it? Yes, yes I did. At the heart of it, the Tourist is about an ambiguous woman who's loyalties are split between love and morality, a woman who is clutching at the final straws of a lover who had to abandon her when a robbery went wrong.

On paper the plot for the film is very promising and the trailer confirms that promise creating a dark, sensual crime thriller set against a beautiful Venetian back drop with plenty of action, romance and dark humour. Except the actual reality is disappointing as the execution is poor and had it not been for Depp and Jolie, this film never would of made it to release. The final product isn't entirely bad but it just isn't what it said on the tin. It's more of an edgy chick flick than french style thriller.

The final pay off does leave you feeling somewhat cheated, the character you thought you knew isn't who you thought you were and while in an unworldly sense of logic seems plausible, doesn't seem possible due to the face to face time the audience shared with the character - at one point we were almost in the characters head and the twist almost makes the earlier scenes completely pointless. It does somehow feel as though the producers made a last minute change to reunite the couple and in doing so, jeopardises everything that had happened so far.

But there is beauty in the beast. The visuals are stunning, the shots were perfect and everything seemed so pristine. Whether it was the actors, the European landscapes or the lavish architecture - there was eye candy everywhere! The script at times was good with witty charming dialogue, full throttle Bond style chase sequences and intimate romantic moments but overall seemed to suffer a bit of an identity crisis. The genre also seemed to switch from scene to scene and had it been better established, the tale may have received better feedback. There were moments of comedy which were quickly lost once the tone became more action thriller with Depp's character Frank running for his life. But it's the performances by the key three players that really do save the day.

Without Johnny Depp, Angelina Jolie or Paul Bettany, the film wouldn't be worth watching. With rumours that Tom Cruise was originally in the main role alongside Charlize Theron, I'm kind of glad Depp and Jolie got on board as Cruise never could of pulled off the role as well as Depp. Depp was charming as the bumbling old romantic Frank Tupelo and Angelina Jolie puts in a stellar performance as the shady seductress Elise Clifton-Ward while Paul Bettany also does well as determined inspector John Acheson.

However despite it's bad points, the Tourist isn't an awful film. If you go in with realistic expectations, if you just want to sit and enjoy a good flick, then this film can deliver. Just don't expect a perfect action thriller as advertised - it certainly isn't that!

As New Years Day Draws To A Close...

2011-01-01T23:56:00.001Z

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

As New Years Day draws to a close, I thought it was time I wished all my readers the best of luck of lucky for 2011. I'm sure as always, it will have it's ups and downs but as long as your happy, then life can't be half bad can it? So Happy New Year to you all and best wishes for the future.

What's coming next for the Proclamations of Dantay - more of the same really. Reviews, articles and blog style ramblings from yours truly. Expect a review of The Tourist starring Johnny Depp and Angelina Jolie sometime this month and possibly also a review of the new Colin Firth film, The Kings Speech. Other than that, plenty more Spotlights coming your way soon with lots of other bloggy goodness.

And again, Happy New Year one and all.

Best and Worst TV Moments of 2010

2010-12-31T15:53:00.000Z

Here is a collection of the best and worst TV moments of 2010, including some of the more ridiculous moments thrown in for good measure. Also replay some of the moments that has helped shape this years television, good and bad.

THE BEST

Matt Smith as the Doctor in Doctor Who. Bowties, diranamos and fezs. I think we were all mourning the departure of the wonderful David Tennant but Smith has won us over with his charm, wit and pure Britishness.

The Vic goes bang! We all love the Queen Vic and we loved it's landlady, Peggy Mitchell even more. Both bowed out in September as Barbara Windsor left the show after sixteen years as our favourite Eastend girl. A fitting end to one of Britain's Soaps best.

The death of my beloved Renee Walker played by Annie Wersching. As 24's Jack Bauer was coming to the end of his reign as the hardest guy on TV, he finally got his happy ending. But it didn't last and Renee was shot, dying on the operating table as they battled to save her life. I think we all wanted to see them run off into the hardcore sunset together.

Lol gets her revenge on her wicked father for years of abuse and the rape of her friend Trev in Shane Meadow's compelling short series This is England '86. The series was a wonderful continuation of the film This is England that was packed full of so many moments I couldn't count them all on my fingers.

That heartbreaking and soul crushing scene when soul mates, Sun and Jin died together as the submarine sank in LOST thanks to that dastardly Man in Black. After being separated for so long, their touching reunion was cut short. RIP Kwons.

We finally said a fine farewell to the Gene genie in Ashes to Ashes in a perfect ending that revealed all our dying questions. As Alex finally accepted her fate, Gene fought off the devil himself, Keats in spectacular fashion.

Steven Moffat's Sherlock. Come on, it was TV gold!

THE WORST

Corrie's 50th anniversary was a disaster for the all wrong reasons. An awfully structured episode ended in a badly shot tram crash which was frankly ruined by tacky special effects and painful overacting. Their neighbours on the Square always did do explosions better than the lot on the cobbles.

Those dodgy vampire sex scenes from True Blood. Don't get me started on the homosexual scenes with Alexander Skarsgard...trying to push boundaries are we HBO? If you've not seen them before, check out this fucked up scene from Season Three, not for the fate hearted or any youngsters, so beware!

Bigbrother UK. I thought they'd go out with a bang. Having not watched it since the early days, I held out hope that they could turn it around. How wrong I was! Hopefully, the show will stay buried.

Heroes bowed out so quietly no one even noticed. I hadn't even realised the show was cancelled and I almost wish I hadn't made the effort to find the last season of the show (which I decided not to watch first time round). With Claire revealing her powers to the world, we were left rather underwhelmed by the whole experience. It's shame really, Season One showed such potential.

THE RIDICULOUS

LOST is well known for it's crazy concepts but this one really takes the biscuit. In the final season, Sun loses her ability to speak English, while retaining the ability to write in and understand the language after hitting her head in "The Package". We just about bought the smoke monster, the polar bear and the time shifts but this was the final straw; come on LOST, seriously!?

I never have been a fan of daytime television, let alone American daytime television. If I never saw Oprah again, I'd be more than happy but the most ridiculous moment in the shows history comes this year when she revealed that "YOUR ALL GOING TO AUSTRALIA!" Oh please, if I wanted some old woman shouting hysterically out at me, I'd go home to my mother!

Chris Chibnall bought the Silurians back to Doctor Who. WHY? By far the worst episodes of Series 5; next time Chibnall, tell the Moff your out of your depth and run along back to RTD and write more crap episodes for Torchwood!

Box Office Successes and Failures

2010-12-30T23:34:00.008Z

It's been a pretty slow year for the film industry this year, particularly after last years massive box office success, Avatar took over seven hundred million pounds despite the ambiguous production values rumoured to be in the region of two hundred and eighty million dollars. It's going to be a very difficult task to even compete with Cameron's grossing triumph but Hollywood had a bloody good go at giving Avatar a run for it's money.

HARRY POTTER STARS: DANIEL RADCLIFFE, EMMA WATSON, RUPERT GRINT.

Surprisingly, the seventh installment of Harry Potter failed to reclaim the highest grossing crown like it's five preceding films, despite the lack of real rivals, with the possible exception of the third Toy Story which was yesterday announced as the highest grossing film of 2010. While in the past, Potter has had to contend with films such as Pirates of the Caribeen, the Dark Knight, Lord of the Rings and of course Avatar, this year has been a rather low key period for Hollywood. With animated films taking centre stage with Toy Story 3, the final Shrek movie, the unexpectedly successful Despicable Me and other 3D releases such as Megamind and How To Train Your Dragon dominating our cinemas, Potter was expected to take back the number one spot having last achieved it back in 2001 with the Sorcerer's Stone.

But it wasn't meant to be.

Another surprise was the success of Christopher Nolan's Inception starring Leonardo DiCaprio, taking almost nine hundred million at the book office just infront of Shrek Forever After which came in at number five with just over seven hundred million. Alice in Wonderland didn't do as well as Disney would of liked, coming in with just over three hundred and thirty million and as it cost over two hundred million to make excluding publicity expenses, isn't as much as they would of been anticipating I'm sure.

But perhaps the biggest disappointments were from some of last years most bankable actors. Johnny Depp who came in at number two last year may have had reasonable success with Alice of the Wonderland in March, but his Winter blockbuster The Tourist alongside Hollywood's most reliable female Angelina Jolie, will be lucky to make half of what was spent on it. Matt Damon also suffered this year, Green Zone which was released in March made only a third of the films production costs while his October movie, Hereafter should do slightly better as the film only cost Warner Brothers fifty million.

But of course the biggest success of 2010, is Toy Story 3. The final part of Pixar's animated adventure raked in just over a billion dollars, which is about six hundred and eighty million to us Brits and the film has been tipped to pick up Best Animated Picture at the Academy Awards while some have even suggested it deserves to walk away with the Best Picture. They're is always a first for everything!

And it certainly was a good year for animated films, Despicable Me, with $539m came in eighth and How to Train Your Dragon with $493m rounded off the top ten. Other animated flicks such as Megamind and Tangled have also done well, despite being released around the time of the seventh Harry Potter and the slightly more successful Despicable Me which was boosted by an all star cast including Steve Carrell, Julie Andrews, Jason Segel and Russell Brand.

Alice in Wonderland managed to clinch the second spot in the list just tilting over the billion pound mark with Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part One coming in at number three. Whether or not the two deserved to even be in the top three is another matter. The other films to make the top 10 were vampire romance Twilight Eclipse, in sixth spot with $693m, Robert Downey Jnr. as the Ironman in his superhero sequel Iron Man 2, came in seventh place with $622m, and fantasy remake Clash of the Titans, just managed to scrap into the top ten, coming in at nine with just shy of half a billion.

Spotlight #6

2010-12-20T15:19:00.002Z

Look at me keeping up this blogging thing - without further ado, here is Spotlight #6.

MISFITS

This fantastic C4 series ended it's second season run with a Christmas special last night in spectacular style. Perhaps an acquired taste, Misfits starring Robert Sheehan, Iwan Rheon, Antonia Thomas, Nathan Stewart-Jarrett and Lauren Socha, has rounded up quite a following and won the BAFTA for Best Drama this year as well as being renewed for a full third season by Channel Four.

The dark comedy about five young offenders who discover they have superpowers. Nathan (Sheehan) is immortal, Kelly (Socha) can read minds, Curtis (Stewart-Jarrett) has the ability to rewind time, Simon (Rheon) can turn himself invisible while Alisha (Thomas) sends anyone who touches her into a sexual frenzy.

As usual, C4 pushes boundaries and breaks our expectations. Witty and crude Nathan is the highlight with his inspired one liners and Season Two's unexpected romance between reserved Simon and glamorous Alisha was particularly interesting.

A definite recommendation for anyone who loves contemporary dramas such as Skins, the Inbetweeners or Shameless.

Why The X Factor Has Lost It's Credibility

2010-12-16T15:39:00.000Z

THE JUDGES: SIMON COWELL, CHERYL COLE, DANNII MINOGUE & LOUIS WALSH.

The X Factor was created in 2004 in a bid to find new musical talent for the dying British music industry. In a time where we all listened to artists born and bred in the States, shows such as Pop Idol, Pop Stars and the X Factor were seen as the way forward for the British music industry. Produced by music mogul Simon Cowell, who headed up the series as a judge alongside Boyzone and Westlife manger Louis Walsh and manager of Ozzy Osbourne, wife Sharon. The introduction of ex Aussie artist Dannii Minogue led to Osbourne's exit at the end of the Series 4, her replacement Popstars: The Rivals winner - Girls Aloud singer, Cheryl Cole was introduced in Series 5 and quickly won the hearts of many across the country. The problem? What exactly does she know about music?

Many would also argue that fellow female, Dannii isn't a credible judge but her recent performance in Series 7 and her overall decent mentoring during her time on the show sets her apart from the under qualified Cheryl. Time and time again, Cheryl has made bad song choices, bad choice of artists (including the recent controversial decision to exclude Gamu) and general negligence, despite always being blessed with the strongest category, has highlighted her inability to properly mentor any up and coming artists.

But it's not just the weakness of Cheryl that is the issue. Louis Walsh's attitude towards the show since Osbourne's exit has exposed what a mockery the show has become. An individual who should know his fair share about the industry, is treating the show as a joke, choosing acts that have no talent (Wagner) or no potential success (Storm). His comments during the show are just as fake and insubstantial as fellow judge, Cheryl and his constant sniping at Cowell as neither entertaining nor useful. Never is any valid criticisms offered and the number of times he over praises an act is almost unbelievable. If I had a pound for every time that man said "he/she will go all the way", I'd be a rich man.

Not only are Cheryl and Louis useless but this year has seen an appearance of a unconstructive Simon Cowell. The one person you could always rely on, the man who would say exactly what we were all thinking, was Simon Cowell. But the last couple of series' he seems to have past that baton to Dannii Minogue and instead joins Cheryl and Louis in completely unsubstantial comments. While no one can fault his mentoring, the steady improvement made by One Direction highlights his ability to really work with an artist but it doesn't excuse the frustrating Saturday night he offers us when him and two of his other judges speak out of their asses.

But I really think the X factor has lost all credibility with all the rule changing, fixing and controversial politics. Why do the judges have any influence whether any act does through or not. Why can't the audience decide who goes through? Can't they follow a similar system to BBC's Strictly Come Dancing, where the judges scoring system are combined with audience votes? Acts like Katie Waissel and Wagner never should of progressed as far as they did.

Maybe it's about time Syco listened to what the audience really want? Perhaps Louis Walsh should just quit, he clearly doesn't take anything seriously? Hopefully the Americans will take Cheryl away too, then we can have a panel of real judges - more akin to that of American Idol. Who should be the judges on the next X Factor? Cast your votes in the sidebar on the right.

Could Student Fee Rise Make Things Worse?

2010-12-16T01:43:00.000Z

IMAGE BY: Allvoices.com

Despite national protests against the proposed rise in student tuition fees, both the House of Commons and the House of Lords have approved plans to up fees to as much as nine grand a year. The major controversy that has united students in anger across the country is the betrayal by the Liberal Democrats who according to their own party policies are against a rise of students fees and despite party leader, Nick Clegg's election promise not to increase tuition fees, the party has joined the Conservatives in increasing the fees. Was the promise just a foil to get votes? Were the Lib Dems ever even serious about decreasing (or at least freezing) the university tuition fees?

But perhaps more importantly, will the increase actually help the countries financial situation at all?

While the government are safe guarding the poorest students, as those who gain free school meals are set to get the first two years free, the rest are set to suffer - including those who are not in any way financially supported by their parents. In fact those who will be set to receive a helping hand, are the lowest percentage of youngsters who go on to university, so in short, they won't be safeguarding anyone and some might say that it's just a crooked way of seemingly softening the blow.

By reputation, the Conservative party are seen to be made up of extremely rich men who are only interested in protecting themselves and those equally as well off. In a bid to change this public opinion, they have tried using strategies that will seem as if they do care about the working class but when in fact, those strategies and policies will only reach a very small fraction of the population. The main section of society, those considered to be the working class, will be left to struggle.

The other issue is that the rise in fees will invertedly discourage prospective students from going to university. This in turn will lead to a decline in university admissions, causing university's themselves to struggle financially and eventually leading to a decline in the quality of education on offer. At this currently time, England arguably as the best education system in the world; while not perfect, the country does offer a better standard than our rivals. But with this rise in fees, could cause a decline in quality. Not only this, but it could discourage our doctors, scientists, engineers and teachers of the future as the price of education will be to high.

With a lack of prospects and opportunities, the working class will get poorer, meaning more people will need financially support from the government and the mess left by the Labour government will seem like a distant paradise!

Overreaction? Maybe. But one thing is for certain, this isn't going to end well.

DTT240991's Top Monthly Tweets

2010-12-16T00:37:00.004Z

Here are again some more famous tweets from yours truly. If you’re as much of a fan as Twitter as I am, you try and keep your tweets as interesting or funny as possible, this month; I think that I've tweeted some more absolute corkers! Here are my favourite three for you non-Twitter birds:

DTT240991
isn't it funny when a guy has a ridiculous high pitched voice!? Plus a Cornish accent which is always interesting.

DTT240991
Bernard Matthews is dead. What's next? The Dairylea cow!?

DTT240991
I think I'm ever so slightly in love with Gwyneth Paltrow!

If you fancy following me on Twitter then go to my page here and click the lovely little "follow" button.

Spotlight #5

2010-12-12T21:41:00.000Z

Having initially hating this artist, particularly due to her similarities to former X-Factor contestants Diana Vickers, I've now completely changed my mind - I eat my words - she is fantastic!

Ellie Goulding

This girl has completely blown me away over the last six months, particularly after her recent record, a cover of the Elton John classic, Your Song. You can watch her rendition below if you wish to check it out yourself. If not, then I highly suggest you get hold of her Number #1 debut album Lights (Bright Lights) that includes her top ten hits Starry Eyed and her extraordinary singles The Writer, Guns and Horses and Under the Sheets.

Her unique style is mesmerising and she is completely update. But don't take my word for it, check her out:

The Road Trip From Hell

2010-12-12T21:21:00.001Z

DUE DATE (2010)

Starring Robert Downey Jnr and Zach Galifianakis

Directed by Todd Phillips

Todd Phillips and Zach Galifianakis reunite alongside Hollywood's iron man, Robert Downey Jnr in a tale about two men and dog travelling across the States to get home in time for the birth of Peter Highman's (Downey Jnr) child and as one can expect from a Phillips film, not everything goes to plan.

These two starkly different characters are forced together when Peter is thrown off a flight bound for his home in LA leaves him unable to get home alone. Desperate to get home, Peter is forced to accept a lift home from eccentric, jobless actor Ethan Tremblay (Zach Galifianakis) despite the fact that the clueless Tremblay is the whole reason he's left stranded at Atlanta Airport.

Robert Downey Jnr stands out in a role very different to any he's played previously unlike Galifianakis' Ethan Tremblay who resembles the character he played in The Hangover too much for my liking. But Downey Jnr's cold and conservative Peter Highman is hilarious and while unlikeable, is completely relatable.

While comparisons can be made to both The Hangover, in style, and the plot from John Hughes' Planes, Trains and Automobiles - Due Date is more satisfying and is arguably on par with Phillips' 2009 hit. While the humour isn't quite as naturally contrived as The Hangover, the plot has more premise and the touching moments towards the end of the film leaves you with that fuzzy feeling. And in an age where absurd comedy is extremely popular, this film is a perfect example of why this style of comedy is in right now.

While it may not have received the critical acclaim it deserves, this movie is worth a watch, particular if your a fan of Phillips' style.

Matt Damon is the Informant

2010-12-03T15:12:00.000Z

THE INFORMANT (2009)

Starring Matt Damon.

Directed by Steven Soderbergh.

This hilarious comedy starring Matt Damon is an extremely underrated hit from last year. Despite only grossing just over thirty three million dollars, this clever feature by quirky director, Steven Soderbergh had us laughing from start to finish.

But at it's core, this isn't a inherently funny story. Infact, its a saddening tale about a man who weaves a web lies that even fools himself. But Soderbergh does manage to the lighten mood by going down a rather different road than the book, written by Kurt Eichenwald, by basing the story around one of the best legal thrillers ever shown on screen. But we still do follow the true story of ex ADM employee Mark Whitacre as depicted by Eichenwald, through the untrustworthy narration that follows throughout the story.

The stand out performance is obviously the portrayal of Mark Whitacre by the fantastic, Matt Damon, who is usually known for his action roles and not for comedic ones. Although playing the role as a larger than life character, Damon managed at the same time to keep him human, relate-able and empathic. The supporting cast also do well, particularly Scott Bakula as FBI Agent Brian Shepard.

The voice over narration is the stand out highlight of the film as we enter into the mind of character of who himself, doesn't really know what's true and what isn't. Despite Whitacre's questionable decisions and dirty dealings, thanks to Damon's performance, we are able to sympathise with a man who at the end of it all, is just human. Not a villain, not a hero but just a human.

I'm Not Forgetting You, Gwyneth Paltrow!

2010-11-19T08:06:00.000Z

Even though I personally despise the FOX hit, Glee, there was something that recently caught my attention. While scanning the pages of Youtube during a sleepless night, I fell across a clip of Gwyneth Paltrow in the episode, "The Substitute" from Season Two of the show. With a rendition of Cee Lo Green's Forget "F*ck" You, I was absolutely stunned by Paltrow's performance. Not only was she brilliant, she was dead sexy!

Check it out for yourself:

DTT240991's Top Monthly Tweets

2010-11-16T19:12:00.000Z

So if your as much of a fan as Twitter as I am, you try and keep your tweets as interesting or funny as possible, this month, I think that I've tweeted so absolute corckers! Here are my favourite three for you non-Twitter birds:

DTT240991

reckons it's easier to get rid of Chlamydia than it is Katie Waissel!

DTT240991

apparently Justin Bieber is going to tour the UK, all I need now is a ticket...and a gun! #mustkilljustinbieber

DTT240991

been in Cornwall two months now and the water still tastes funny!

If you fancy following me on Twitter then go to my page here and click the lovely little "follow" button.

Spotlight #4

2010-11-12T14:05:00.000Z

Another special spotlight this week as we look a particularly brilliant theatre company based here in the UK. Currently celebrating their 30th anniversary, Kneehigh Theatre Company has made us laugh, cry and squeal with delight as they bring some our favourite pieces to life on stage. Touring the States at the moment is an adaptation of Noel Coward's Brief Encounter, which is a tale of love, heartache and self evaluation. But why are they so successful?

Kneehigh Theatre's, Emma Rice.

Over the years, Kneehigh has had an array of massively successful shows including: Red Shoes, Brief Encounter, King of Prussia & Blast! In the last ten years, Kneehigh has been under the watchful eye of director and theatre maker, Emma Rice, who has overseen and directed all the shows since 2000.

With a rich history, Cornwall (UK) based Kneehigh has inspired many up and down the country with their influential style of devised theatre. Ensemble based, Kneehigh infuses actors, musicians and theatre makers together to make a collaborative piece of work. Musicians often join actors and dancers on the stage and the performers are usually multi-talented enabling them to seamlessly switch from playing the guitar to dancing in tap shoes to singing opera.

Find out more about this wonderful company by going to their website at: www.kneehigh.co.uk

Spotlight #3

2010-11-05T17:26:00.001Z

To sort of make up for the month delay in Spotlight updates, I have decided that I will release two today to in some way make up for the ones I have missed. The fourth will be on your screens next week and that will mean were all caught up. Happy!?

IMAGE BY: Rachel McAlister.

This is a rather unusual spotlight as these six aren't exactly famous but they are definitely worth highlighting. The Shaytards are a young family from Idaho who create daily video blogs on Youtube that give us a sneaky peak into their real lives. After two years of vlogging, the family have gathered a massive internet following and are currently one of the most subscribed channels on Youtube with an amazing 667, 423 subcribers in total.

The family are made up of:

SHAYCARL & KATILETTE

SONTARD & PRINCESSTARD

BABYTARD & ROCKTARD

If you haven't watched them already, check them out below or follow the link to their channel. But beware, they are extremely addicting!

SHAYTARDS - Go to the channel now!

Spotlight #2

2010-11-05T16:30:00.000Z

So I'm the worst blogger of all time, okay, I get it. But I am determined to make this work so here is the second installment of "Spotlight" - even if it is over five weeks late. What!? I've just started university, it's been a tricky transition and a busy month...don't hate me!

CHLOE GRACE MORETZ

American teen sensation, Chloe Moretz has had one hell of a year. Going from the face of the Disney Princess dressing up range at the age of six, young starlet Moretz is taking Hollywood by storm. After starring in rom-com 500 Days of Summer alongside Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Levitt's spunky on screen sister, Moretz landed the role in comic book, action comedy Kick-Ass as feisty Mindy Macready. Critics hailed the youngster as the star of tomorrow as she pulled off a convincing performance as the young superhero, Hit-Girl in which she stole the limelight from the films stars Aaron Johnson, Mark Strong and Nicolas Cage.

Moretz was an other night hit and her next film, Let Me In, also looks to be another hit as she appears in the role of young vampire Abby. The fantasy horror which is a remake of the Swedish hit Let the Right One In hits screen today (5 November 2010) in the UK and although initially panned by critics, it still looks to be a strong film. Most reviews of the film dislike it after having watched the original but most compliment the talented Moretz and her chemistry with Kodi Smit-McPhee.

As well as the two already mentioned, Moretz also starred in Diary of Wimpy Kid and already has a busy schedule booked in for next week with a possible five films in the works plus the second Kick-Ass installment lined up for 2012. Something tells me, this is only the beginning of bright career for this young child-star.

Spotlight

2010-09-23T02:21:00.002+01:00

To get into the habit of blogging again, from now on I will be fornightly spotlighting an actor, musician or celebrity I reckon you should take a look at. And our first spotlighted person is...

LEONARDO DICAPRIO

Hollywood's Leonardo DiCaprio is taken the film industry by storm with a string of fantastic films since 2006's war film, Blood Diamond which was made by Edward Zwick. Then came Scorsese's The Departed before moving onto spy film Body of Lies in 2008 alongside Russell Crowe and in the same year, he reunited with Kate Winslet in Revolutionary Road. He took year out before joining back up with Martin Scorsese to brilliantly bring Dennis Lehane's novel Shutter Island to life alongside an all star cast including the legendary Ben Kingsley. But Shutter Island hasn't been DiCaprio's only success of 2010. Next he teamed up with Dark Knight director Christopher Nolan to bring us the fantasticly mind bending sci-fi: Inception with the extremely talented Joseph Gordon-Levitt.

He's a had a fantastic four years and having observed his development as an actor since his starring roles in Romeo and Juliet(1996) and Titantic (1997) I can truely appreciate his magnicifent work. And with Clint Eastwood's Hoover to come next year, he's surely in line for his first Oscar!

My Youtube Picks...

2010-09-12T12:46:00.000+01:00

If your like me and you love sitting in your large computer chair amusing yourself with an array of entertaining Youtube videos, then sit tight and read through this entry to find out my favourite Youtubers and why. But firstly, for those of you that have been living under a rock for the last few years then here is quick summary of what exactly Youtube is...

Youtube is an online video sharing site where thousands of wannabe actors, television presenters, comedians, musicians etc...post videos of themselves online for the rest of the world to see. Some Youtubers do in fact have a natural talent of some kind but most are overrated, talentless hacks! *cough* Fred *cough* Instead of socialising with friends, playing video games or exploring the great out doors they poor their hearts in front of a camera in order to see how many hits they can get. Bit like me, just with a webcam.

Got it? Great. On with the blog...

#1 - Lisa Lavie
Lisa is an extremely talented singer with a beautiful voice. She may not be the most stunning girl (but still a looker in my opinion) on the market but her vocal talents are second to none. Reminds me a little of my favourite singer, Kelly Clarkson with a slash of Beyonce attitude. Normally I hate anyone who attempts to sing Michael Jackson's Earth Song but her cover of the MJ classic is brilliant, by far the best cover I've ever heard. I also love her rendition of Beyonce's Halo, absolutely beautiful. If you haven't checked out Lisa yet, please do. You'll love her.

#2 - Michael Buckley
Michael Buckley's webshow: WHATTHEBUCKSHOW is one of Youtube's most famous video blogs which sees Buck talk to us about all the latest gossip and celebrity news in his own unique way. Famous for his one take (no cutting) "blogs", Michael makes a living from his work on Youtube and has become one of few to become famous for his online alter ego. One of my favourite Youtubers and probably everyones favourite gay host, Graham Norton eat your heart out!

#3 - Charlie McDonnell
Charlie is famous for his show charlieissocoollike and his contributions to the Five Awesome Guys collaborations that took place during 2008. This saw Charlie and the other four guys do a video everyday (a different guy each day) for a whole year. Charlie known also as Tuesday (from his Five Awesome Guys days) is one of Britain's most famous video bloggers and has been entertaining us for about three years. Charlie's Challenge Charlie videos are extremely funny and his down to earth presenting style makes him very entertaining. If you like spotty teenage boys then Charlie is for you.

#4 - Kurt Hugo Schneider & Sam Tsui
Kurt Hugo Schneider, this guy has talent. His piano playing and composition skills are top notch and he makes some fantastic videos. His friend Sam Tsui an extremely talented singer and his MJ medley that he produced with the help of Kurt was soooo good, if you find Kurt's page, take a look at that video - you'll be blown away. The two are part of an online web series, College Musical which is extremely funny and actually very well put together, the script itself isn't as good as it could be but the series as a whole is pretty good, the music is top notch! High School Musical would be jealous.

#5 - ShayCarl & the Shaytards

Shaycarl and his family (the Shaytards) are quite possibly my favourite Youtubers to date. An extremely funny series that follows the lives of Americans, Shay, his wife Kaliette and three children Sontard, Princesstard and utterly adorable Babytard. Having not been a particularly big fan of reality TV shows such as the Osbournes and the Karshadins due to their...unorthodox life styles. Check them out!

You can find all the above Youtubers at Youtube by either searching their name or one of their shows. I recommend all of them, obviously; kind of the point of the blog. And just for the record, this wasn't a Top Five nor were they ranked in order of my favourite, I just simply listed them in the order of who I thought of first. However ones that would never make my list include Fred who's show is just as bad as Bruno! and Chris Crocker, who's just a dick!

The Reprise of the PoD.

2010-09-07T21:38:00.002+01:00

"Reprise of the Proclamations of Dantay"

Many of you are probably wondering how long this blogging reprise will last and the honest answer is, it's down to you. As much as I want to get back into writing blogs, without the feedback, the comments and the opinions from you guys, it does become difficult to motivate yourself to write for the few. So the simply answer is, if you want to see me blog more, give me something back; however big or small, I just want to hear from you guys.

After all, my ego can always get a little bigger. ;)

England - Out with the Old, in with the New!

2010-09-07T19:55:00.009+01:00

IMAGE: Theo Walcott, Jermain Defoe & Steven Gerrard against Bulgaria - 03/09/10

"Out with the Old, in with the New"

After a pretty abysmal performance at the World Cup, including that humiliating display against Germany, it's time to re-evaluate exactly where England have been going wrong in the last few years - particularly the last ten years.

It's always the same story for the English as time and time again the "great" nation is hyped up only to be torn apart when it really matters. The hype can only be blamed on the press who year in year out force us to get behind our country only to lynch mob them when they fall short of international success. The blame is often placed on the manager and rightly so but it's the players who should also the brunt of English anger as it's them who failed to perform.

I may not have agreed completely with Capiello's line up and tactics at the World Cup but it's only fair to blame the over payed players that gave about the half the effort they should of. And why? They were tired. Aw bless - if they tried doing a hard days work first then maybe we might have a little sympathy but with the ridiculous amounts they get paid, they should duly deliver when called on by there country. I remember a time when it was an honour and a privilege not a chore! And I've only been on this planet for nineteen years... my oh my has it changed in so little time.

So where have we being going wrong? Picking the wrong players time and time again. The same players are chosen every year despite playing badly the year before. Who you ask? Lampard is one - if I was a football pundit he'd be slammed by me every week because I personally don't rate him at all, especially for England. Terry is another, about as useful as a chocolate radiator. Carragher, Upson, James and Heskey are others who I wouldn't of let anywhere near the World Cup squad.

Who should we be playing? The youngsters. Stop pissing around during the qua lifers and get a strong squad together that will have enough time to gel. It's now that we need to create a permanent lineup for the Euro's. They will have nearly two years to play and train together and maybe just maybe, we'll stand a chance in 2012.

I may be no expert but the likes of Jack Rodwell, Adam Johnson and Gary Cahill seem a lot more exciting than the likes of Lampard, Terry and co. We need young players who really want to play for their country and not ones who are just waiting to pick up the pay cheque at the end of the tournament. This would be my suggested line-up:

HART (GK)
G.JOHNSON (RB)
CAHILL/FERDINAND (CB)
JAGIELKA C(B)
COLE (LB)
WALCOTT/A. JOHNSON (RW)
GERRARD (CM)
RODWELL/BARRY (DCM)
MILNER (CM)
A. JOHNSON/J. COLE (LW)
ROONEY/DEFOE (ST)

So Ferdinand may not be getting any younger but when fit he can be extremely useful. The back also needs someone more mature but if Jagielka is given a good enough run of games (and considering his form, I hope he does) he should be able to mature into the role which we would free up the second role - which I would hand over to Gary Cahill who looks to be our most promising centre back.

Theo Walcott is a difficult one as while I may not be his biggest fan, I can see how good he can be. But when he's not playing at his best, he's awful. I would much rather hand the position to Adam Johnson who looks a lot better than Walcott who I believe is a little overrated. And as Johnson has taken two goals in two games rounding off two brilliant performances, I'd much prefer him ahead of Walcott. With Johnson on the right hand side, Joe Cole can slot in on the left and with the support of James Milner and Steven Gerrard we would be pretty formidable going forward. Cole may not have set the world a light during the World Cup he wasn't really given much time to shine. He's by far our best option on the left hand side, particularly if Johnson occupies the right wing.

Supporting the back four I would have Jack Rodwell in an anchor man type role connecting the defence with the midfield so instead of Terry's usual hoof up field we can play it from back to front smoothly. The same role could be played by Gareth Barry but like his name, he's boring and as Rodwell is so young, he has the potiental to be ten times better than boring yet depenable Barry.

The final difficult decision is the all important forward. Out of all the England players, Wayne Rooney had by far the worst World Cup. But with a goal tonight and a strong performance against Bulgaria (with two assists), he looks as though he can do the job. But if Defoe can keep scoring goals like he did against the Bulgarians then he could easily challenges Roo for the role.

Rooney is the whole reason I picked 4-5-1 and here's why. With United he had the most amazing season and having spent most of it all alone, I see no reason why he can't replicate it for England. The reason for his killer season but dreadful international campaign this year is all down to tactics. Sir Alex found the perfect role for Wayne and unfortunetly, Capiello decided to ignore it. He had no chemistry with Heskey and while he linked up well with Defoe this week, I think his best lies with 4-5-1. And Gerrard is the perfect man to link up with Gerrard, sitting behind him linking the play effortlessly with someone like Rodwell bringing it out from the back. It may not work but as it's not really been tried - it's worth a go surely!?

After all, you can't get much worse than our performance this Summer.

The Toys Are Back In Town

2010-08-31T21:48:00.008+01:00

TOY STORY 3

Directed by Lee Unkrich

Starring Tom Hanks, Tim Allen and Joan Cusack.

For many of us this third and final installment of the Toy Story franchise will feel like an end of era. We have grown up with these characters and for some us, they're part of our childhoods. We were there when the first Toy Story boosted Pixar to the top in 1995 and we rejoined them for the second film in 1999 where we met some additions to the toy box. We invited Woody, Buzz and the rest of the gang into our hearts and they've never let us down. Eleven years later, were here to say goodbye...can Pixar do it again?

For me, this year has been a year of many changes, many endings and Toy Story 3 is the icing on the cake. I was only 3 when the first film was released in '95, the same year my younger brother was born, and as I'm sure my mother will you, I loved every minute. I watched it over and over again and it's been in my VHS collection ever since. 1995 was a year of firsts, my first sibling, my first year at school and I believe I even lost my first tooth. 1999 and Jessie joined the crew and it reignited my love for the franchise. I've had to wait eleven years for the next installment and I certainly wasn't going to pass up the opportunity to watch a preview back in June.

Despite my long blogging hiatus I knew I had to do a review for this. So over two months later and here we are, having just watched it for about the fifth time, ready to write my review.

So lets start with the negative points shall we? There really aren't many, it was the perfect end to an almost perfect series. But there are few points that I wish they would of got right:

Firstly, I'm not totally sold on our villain. I felt like we had been here before and there didn't really seem to be much separating him from Stinky Pete from the second film. Perhaps it's just me but an old, wise toy who appears to be one of the good guys seems like familiar ground. It doesn't really ruin anything but it would of been nice to have seen something a little more original. In fact the betrayal of one of there friends would of been alot more interesting then another evil outsider.

Secondly, no Bo Peep, no Wheezy and no Etch. The latter two could of been forgiven but getting rid of Bo Peep. I understand if she appeared but then got the chop during the film but having an off screen exit felt like a bit of a cop out. Even at the end there was a hole that Bo Peep would usually fill. Buzz had Jessie but this time, Woody is left alone. Sad times indeed!

However it was difficult to pull out any negatives. Those are more nitpicks than faults, the film manages stand on it's own two feet and my little complaints really make no difference.

As for the positives, I could go on forever. I'll just limit it to three points that I for me, made the film:

El Buzzo was fantastic. Even the brilliant snippet at the end where Jessie puts on the Latin music is golden. If you haven't seen the film, it's worth if for these moments alone.

The new characters keep the film fresh. Without them, it would still be good but the additions of Barbie, Ken, Big Baby etc...really enhanced the experience. Even the smaller roles played by Mr Picklepants played by the legendary Timothy Dalton will bring a smile to your face and every role, regardless of whole big or small, each character has there place. Barbie, Ken, Mr Picklepants and Chuckles definitely stick in my mind!

That ending. Andy introduces his friends to Bonnie really brings a tear to your eye and when drives off leaving the toys on the porch, I almost blubbered like a baby. As I said earlier, the perfect end to a perfect series.

Well done Pixar! If you haven't seen it then go see it. If Toy Story means as much to you as it does me, you'll leave with a giant smile on your face! You may even go back for more...

5/5 - it really is that good!

Angels & Demons: Unfairly Over-Criticised

2010-08-24T00:46:00.001+01:00

Fair enough, The Davinci Code was a big disappointment which failed to meet expectations in almost every way possible; the successor however, doesn't deserve the heavy criticism it has received. The film is witty, well paced and cleverly strung together, keeping us guessing until the end. When you think you've got things all worked out, they throw in a twist and for me, that's exactly what a good mysterious thriller should do. It does make mistakes but like many of the recent films, it makes up for it in other departments.

First off, for those of your who weren't satisfied with Tom Hanks portrayal of Professor Robert Langdon in the previous outing, you'll be pleasantly surprised here. While he remains consistent, not dramatically changing the character as actors have a habit of doing in a sequel, Hanks adds an element of humour to the role. The one liners add comic relief to the thrilling mystery and amongst the blood and gore, Hanks picks things up with a laugh. Critics have said they felt this was out of place and untrue to the novels character; I suggest they try reading Dan Brown's books before passing that kind of judgement!

While the film doesn't stay completely true to the novel, there isn't anything majorly different plot wise and the renaming of the Camerlengo is probably the biggest change. On the subject of Camerlengo Patrick McKenna played by the brilliant Ewan McGregor, wasn't he just fantastic? The final twist involving his character was a complete surprise and the predication I had made got completely turned on its head. I personally loved McGregor's portrayal and I couldn't of cast anyone better for the role.

What was bad? The complete waste of Ayelet Zurer as Vittoria Vetra, she was simply there as a plot device and there was little chemistry between Vetra and Langdon. While Zurer didn't play the role badly, the character was dispensable and there was very little reason for her presence. It felt as if they thought to themselves, "heck we've got no females in this, lets make one up so it doesn't look like we are being sexist!" Another bad point was the death of the assassin, it was obvious and the build up was there so explosion really wasn't a surprise at all.

So while the plot moved at a better pace than it's predecessor and the action was satisfying, it seems as if Angels & Demons also suffers from the Dan Brown blues and really doesn't reach it's potential. While it may be a good film, if you have read the book or seen the countless, exciting trailers then you may be a little disappointed by the final product. But all in all, it is one worth seeing, especially if your one of the few who enjoyed the first outing.

Star Trek: Abrams rejuvenation of an old classic!

2010-08-20T18:26:00.002+01:00

But with LOST supremo, JJ Abrams at the helm, I was more than ready to give this film a chance. Though I myself have failed to fully dive into the Lost universe, I can understand why the series is so successful and I can only admire Abrams workmanship on both Lost and Fringe. While his most recent attempt in Hollywood left us less than satisfied, we all hoped Star Trek would give us a different feeling. And as I have already mentioned, it did.

The movie rekindled the love of Trek for Trekkie's across the globe while also pulling in a brand new audience. This new generation might not want to run around wearing pointy ears speaking Klingon, the general response was extremely positive. And while it didn't go without it's criticism, the professional feedback was, on the hole, also good.

The premise for the film was extremely exciting, going back to the start and literally beginning all over again. Obviously, being in the industry I am, I got a few inside "spoilers" before the film had been premiered so when I finally came to watching it, I had a general idea of what was coming. The whole film was cleverly balanced so we saw a good amount of action while getting enough interaction and character building to level things out and the overall characterization was pretty good.

Zachary Quinto delivered a top notch performance of Spock and I couldn't help but squeal when Zachary and Leonard came face to face. Chris Pine and Zoe Saldana both deserve to be commended for their brilliant interpretations of Kirk and Uhura. Pine shines and you can tell he really relished the opportunity playing the role and he really embraced Shatner's Kirk while really pumping him with energy. Uhura was also extremely likable and came across alot more warm and I for one, enjoyed the Spock/Uhura pairing. Simon Pegg was also very entertained as Scotty and matched Doohan's timing to a tee and while we saw very little of John Cho's Sulu, I was satisfied enough.

The biggest disappointment was the character of Nero, I just didn't think he was villainous enough, he was missing something that I couldn't quite identify but whatever it was, didn't matter, I still felt he was the weakest character. No fault of Eric Bana in my opinion and he did seem to build a character but it just wasn't evil enough for my liking and that was down to Abrams and the writing team to sort out.

With stunning action sequences, fantastic characters, witty dialogue and overall, top notch acting - this is defiantly a film not to miss. It's enjoyable for Trekkie's and newbies alike and while there was so criticisms to be made (most of which I didn't mention), this was a jolly, action packed trek. A fine addition to the Star Trek franchise and the only thing I have left to say is: sequel, please?!

Welcome to "the Proclamations of Dantay".

2010-08-01T01:28:00.001+01:00

It's approximately 1:28AM on Friday, August 01 and this is officially the first post to be added to this brand new blog, "The Proclamations of Dantay".

You may firstly be wondering who the hell I am. That fact will remain a secret for an eternity and shall you ever discover my real identity, then I'll to kill you. Of course, I'm only messing with you. My name is Dan and I'm going to playing the role of head blogger here at PoD.

Unfortunately for me, I live in the United Kingdom, Devon to precise. Any more than that would be telling. And who knows what you could be. Paparazzi, a stalker, a rapist, a serial killer or even dare I say it, a Miley Cyrus fan! I don't have anything against the famous youths who are representing my generation but I cross the line at Miley Cyrus, she's a hideous human being. And I'm not talking about her appearance, she's a very pretty young woman but her attitude and behaviour stinks, she's defiantly giving us a bad name! So I warn you now, this isn't a place for fans of her majesty as there isn't a fan of hers around these parts. As I said, nothing against the girl, if she wants to be a rotten, two faced, spoilt, little bitch then it's not my place to question her. Be warned, I'm not a fan of Zak Efron or other like minded individuals either, so comments about them aren't usually pretty.

In this blog, I will be commenting on films, television, music and technology and anything else that tickles my fancy. Fingers crossed the series finale of ER will be the first on my list, swiftly followed by the new Star Trek movie. But no promises can be made on either accounts as it does depends on whether I have time to sit and watch them. It's worth noting that I work at a movie theatre and with that, I get to watch as many films as many times as I like - so if your going to get a review, it will be more likely to be one about film rather music but lets see how things pan out shall we!

Anyway, on with the show shall we. Enjoy the blog and finally, welcome to "The Proclamations of Dantay".