Touch Season 1 Episode 4 “Kite Strings”

30 01 2013

(I got behind in the spring on these recaps. With Touch returning Friday, February 8, I thought I’d catch up).

Martin (Kiefer Sutherland) receives a letter from the chief medical examiner presumably about his wife’s remains at the World Trade Center. He looks over at the red kite, picks it up and leaves.

The newspaper says that the TriState Lotto winner was costing them $140,625 a week having not claimed the prize. He won $190 million. (I should be an editor–if you look closely enough you’ll see that the newspaper article repeats twice).

NewspaperClipping

Flash to the First Congregational Church of Lynchburg where Randall Meade (Titus Welliver) reads the marquee, “You have questions? He has answers.”

Jake (David Mazouz) is narrating in the background that we are always waiting for messages. He poses that if we have not received a message, it might be because we haven’t listened hard enough.

At the center, Martin tells Clea (Gugu Mbatha-Raw) said that they have not yet identified his wife’s remains (Fact: 40% of the victims in the WTC have never been identified). Martin regrets not being there for Sarah and Jake because he thought he had all the time in the world. He wants to take Jake to the cemetery and Clea approves. Jake runs to Bobby Aresa (Kiko Ellsworth) at Sarah’s grave with his kite in hand. Bobby was a bike messenger and knew Sarah from the WTC and they became friends. Sarah Bohm was born on 4/3/1970. (I don’t know if that is significant but thought I would write it down). Jake looks down at his dropped red book with combinations of 9-5 with varying decimal points.

Notebook

Martin looks as the clock on his cell phone changes to 9:50. Jake releases the kite. Jake is wearing a red shirt, too. Jake and Martin follow the kite. Eventually they come to an intersection where we see “checks cashed 9.5%“. Jake crosses the street.

CellPhone

ChecksCashed95

All the way around the globe in Iraq, we see Tarik (Wesam Keesh) and Abdul (Shak Ghacha) who we have met in previous episodes. Band practice is at 9:50 p.m. The US soldiers hire them to play at the base. Abdul excitedly lets First Lt. Laura Davis (Sprague Grayden) know when her convoy follows.

BandPractice950pm

Back in Lynchburg, Randall Meade observes a very unconfident preacher. He tells the congregation to open to Luke 9 chapter 5. “And as for those who do not welcome you, when you leave that town, shake the dust from your feet in testimony against them.” In historical context, the passage is about when armed with the power and authority that Jesus himself had been displaying, the 12 disciples are now sent out to continue the work that Jesus had been performing throughout Gallean ministry. Randall tells Pastor Steve (Josiah Early) that “he has answers” is a bunch of crap.

There is an ad on a subway sign that says Citrus O has only 270 calories and is 99.5 degrees in the shade.

SubwaySign

Another sign says, “Construction on Ninth Street; expect a half-hour delay.”

Construction9thStreet

Jake walks into the apartment building to door “65” that turns into “95” after a ball hits the door at the precise moment he is there. It’s Bobby from the cemetery. Martin asks him if 9.5 or 9-1/2 means anything to him.

DoorNumber

Jake walks into the apartment. Bobby’s daughter’s name is Sarah.

Sarah

In Iraq, the two military vehicles get hit by IEDs and the soldiers are under fire. An injured Laura pulls a squadmate out of the vehicle and gets away from the scene.

Laura

Jake seems attracted to the red roses on the table as Bobby shares his memory of Sarah with Martin. He knew that the WTC would come down as he felt the instructions to go back into the offices was wrong. He has been feeling guilty for not going after Sarah.

Roses

Pastor Steve shares how the church has stayed in the family and the plans his father had for expansion. He tells Randall that he had plans to go up to New York and follow his girlfriend (which turns out to be Laura). Randall shares his story about what happened with Sarah. He also shares about his background in construction work growing up. Steve asks him if he could look at something in the basement. As they walk down the stairs, they fall in and get locked in.

Tarik’s band, Deep Lightning, is using an amp, a RichterVox Model 95-A, but they want to make sure they don’t exceed the safety level of volts.

RichterVox

In the background is a poster of Andrew James who is a famous bass player. (Yes, I notice this stuff).

AndrewJames

They ask King Roadie (Joshua Leonard) who types in 50 volts. King Roadie apparently keeps his old instruction sets in a red suitcase.

50volts

The soldiers are asked to give their sit-rep 9-5. They still cannot locate the two injured soldiers.

Jake goes into a room in Bobby’s apartment, locks the door and climbs out to the fire escape. He goes after the red kite. King Roadie’s girlfriend is startled by Jake at the window (Jake had changed the satellite signal where the red kite was caught). The girlfriend falls back, a pen drops on the keyboard and 50 volts gets changed to 950 volts.

950volts

Jake reaches for the kite. Martin realizes that Jake wants Bobby to help him get it. Bobby catches Jake before he falls. Martin tells him that in saving Jake, his debt he felt to Sarah was repaid.

BobbyJake

Over in Iraq, 950 volts makes for quite a light display and it lights up a particular transformer where the two soldiers are. Their coordinates were 3-0-9-5. (Look in the right corner of my screen. There are 9:59 minutes left of the show–LOL).

Green

Bobby remembered how 9-5 was significant in his life with Sarah. It was the last session with Sarah. Sarah was tutoring him to help him get his GED so he could better provide for his family.

Pastor Steve talks to Laura who is not sure if she will make it, but wanted him to know that something he said to her helped save her squadmate. He tells Laura he has been given a sign to move on with his life. He plans to go to Germany to be with her. Randall thinks his question has been answered, too.

LauraBeforeSurgery

Back at the apartment, Martin looks in Sarah’s appointment book where he sees B.A. (Bobby Aresa) in her 9/5/2001 appointments. He also finds a receipt to Thomas Brothers Jewelry. He goes there. They held onto the wedding ring that belonged to Sarah. She was having it engraved with 1 + 1 = 3.

SarahsRing





American Idol Season 12 Baton Rouge Auditions

30 01 2013

The next stop on American Idol‘s talent tour was Baton Rouge, the capital of Louisiana. It brought out an eclectic group of individuals. And the alpha-dog battle between Nicki Minaj and Mariah Carey has calmed.  Thank God!

An injured Megan Miller hobbled her way in and into the hearts of the judges. She was on her way to surgery but wanted to audition before she did. Instead of trying to vie for attention, she used her temporary disability in a humorous fashion which delighted the judges. She is Miss Greater Baton Rouge. She delivered an Etta James song like a professional. Why do people think these 1980-like headbands are cool? They really are not. It’s so Olivia Newton John.

MeganMiller

Megan Miller

Charlie Askew was a great surprise. He reminds me of Clay Aiken, someone who likely will undergo a big transformation style-wise if he makes it to the top 10. His voice sounds a lot like Chris Colfer (Glee). He sang “Breakthrough” by Queen, and then “Nature Boy” by Nat King Boy. I thought “Nature Boy” was better. Charlie has a very interesting, big voice for such a petite-sized young man. He is quite unique. Keith mentioned something about a vagenda. The only time I’ve heard the word “vagenda” used was in the TV show “Fringe.” Unless it is a different spelling and Australian slang, it means: “Using your feminine wiles to accomplish evil ends.”

CharlieAskew

Charlie Askew

Nominations have been done with mixed results now. Sylvia Assel nominated her granddaughter, Maddie Assel. I found Sylvia much more interesting. Exactly how much magic dust has she inhaled? Sylvia tells Ryan, “I want to kidnap you and take you home with me.” Maddie sang, “Oh! Darling” by The Beatles. Her vibrato is borderline annoying, but if she tames that just a little bit, she’ll do well. She, too, is unique.

MaddieAssel

Maddie Assel

Of course, there is a string of auditions that do not go well at all. The young lady with the purple glasses needs some anger management classes.

I like Paul Jolley‘s spirit. He did well with Rascal Flatts’ “Don’t Let Go.”

PaulJolley

Paul Jolley

Chris Barthel was nicknamed “Mushroom.” He has now ruined “If I Had You” by Adam Lambert. He was quite entertaining with his dance moves. Keith Urban was laughing so hard he was crying. “I like the keys that song was in.” Perhaps Chris’ calling lies in comedy. When Nicki was running her fingers through his hair, he says, “Nicki you are awesome!” Mariah’s face was priceless. After receiving 4 “no” responses, he says to Ryan, “I met four awesome people including you.” Who was Chris leaving out?

ChrisBarthel

Chris “Mushroom” Barthel

You know you are getting old(er) when the doctors could be as young as your own children. Dr. Calvin Peters, a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician, came in confident. He pulled off a difficult Maxwell song. It was as smooth as silk.

CalvinPeters

Dr. Calvin Peters

Out of the next contestants, Michelle Montezer (what is UP with those headbands!), Breanna Steer, and Brandy Hotard, I liked Breanna’s voice the best. They are all through to Hollywood.

MichelleMontezer

Michelle Montezer

BreannaSteer

Breanna Steer

BrandyHotard

Brandy Hotard

Alissa Griffin was just horrid.

It’s been awhile since we’ve heard Nicki Minaj ask the contestant if they have a boyfriend. This is not “The Dating Game.” Firefighter Dustin Watts did a wonderful job with Garth Brooks’ “She’s Every Woman.” I like the tone in his voice.

DustinWatts

Dustin Watts

The last contestant usually has a backstory that is shared to move the audience. Burnell Taylor was no different. His home was devastated by Hurricane Katrina, but they moved to Baton Rouge. It was a lesson learned about what is important in life. He slayed “I’m Here” from the movie “The Color Purple.” He had a wonderful voice. I didn’t think he was the best voice in the competition, but he also had a great stage presence. Keith was having a blast with him. Randy, Keith and Mariah gave him a standing ovation. He made Mariah cry. Keith said, “Somewhere there is a spotlight waiting for you to walk into it.”

BurnellTaylor

Burnell Taylor

A total of 35 people made it through to Hollywood. Next: San Antonio





Two New Fox Shows In Development

30 01 2013

(Press Release) FOX UNVEILS FIRST TWO MAJOR EVENT SERIES IN DEVELOPMENT

>M. Night Shyamalan’s WAYWARD PINES and Bruce C. McKenna’s BLOOD BROTHERS

Kick Off FOX’s Marquee Event Series Development Slate

Marking its official entry into developing long-form event series, Fox Broadcasting Company (FOX) announced that it has inked development deals for two large-scale drama projects: WAYWARD PINES, from M. Night Shyamalan (“The Sixth Sense,” “Unbreakable”) and FX Productions; and BLOOD BROTHERS, from Bruce C. McKenna (“Band of Brothers,” “The Pacific”), Gary Randall (“The Glades,” “Saving Grace”), Timothy Scott Bogart (“Majors & Minors,” “Touched”), Boardwalk Entertainment Group and Fox Television Studios.

FOX will order its first event series pilot(s) later this year with plans to debut its first long-form event series in 2014.

“With top-notch auspices and feature-quality production plans, WAYWARD PINES and BLOOD BROTHERS represent exactly the kind of high-impact, 10- to 12-part events we set out to develop when we entered the limited series business,” said Kevin Reilly, Chairman of Entertainment, Fox Broadcasting Company. “These two series are the first of many big ideas, big names and big talent that you can anticipate will be on our air in the next 12-24 months.”

Based on the best-selling novel, “Pines,” by Blake Crouch and brought to life by suspense-driven filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan, WAYWARD PINES is an intense, mind-bending thriller evocative of the classic cult hit “Twin Peaks.” Secret Service agent ETHAN BURKE arrives in the bucolic town of Wayward Pines, ID, on a mission to find two missing federal agents. But instead of answers, Ethan’s investigation only turns up more questions. What’s wrong with Wayward Pines? Each step closer to the truth takes Ethan further from the life he knew, from the husband and father he was, until he must face the terrifying reality that he may never get out of Wayward Pines alive. WAYWARD PINES is based on a spec script written by Chad Hodge (“The Playboy Club”) and executive-produced by Shyamalan, Hodge, Donald De Line (“Green Lantern,” “The Italian Job”) and Ashwin Rajan (“After Earth”).

BLOOD BROTHERS is the true story of the West Point Class of 1861. As our bitterly divided country tore itself apart over the issue of slavery, the West Point Brotherhood broke apart. Best friends, bonded in the intense crucible of the Academy, found themselves on opposite sides of a conflict that quickly became the bloodiest in U.S. history. For four violent years, these former comrades fought directly against each other, even as many of them rose from lowly second lieutenants to field generals. Throughout the conflict, however, they never lost their love and esteem for each other, which often resulted in many acts of kindness that stretched across enemy lines. Some died; others were broken by the conflict. But every one of the Brothers was utterly changed by a war that not only redefined America, but which still resonates today. BLOOD BROTHERS is written by McKenna, and executive-produced by McKenna, Randall and Bogart.





Fox Broadcasting Briefs of Your Favorite Shows

30 01 2013

Seth Rogen will guest-star on “The Mindy Project” on Tuesday, February 19, 2013. Bones has been picked up for season 9. Touch premieres Friday, February 8, 2013 at 8/7 central. Hell’s Kitchen begins on Tuesday, March 12, 2013. Will and Emma of Glee tie the knot on Valentine’s Day on Glee. Ben and Kate fans will be disappointed to learn that it has been pulled from the line-up and will not finish production. Any finished episodes will air at a later date.





Fox Broadcasting Announces New Show: Rake

30 01 2013

(Press Release) FOX ORDERS PILOT FOR NEW DRAMA “RAKE”

ACADEMY AWARD NOMINEE AND EMMY AWARD WINNER GREG KINNEAR TO STAR IN LEAD ROLE

Character-Driven Drama Executive-Produced By

Peter Duncan, Peter Tolan and Michael Wimer

Kicking off its drama pilot orders, Fox Broadcasting Company (FOX) has given a pilot order to RAKE, a character-driven comedic drama by Peter Duncan (creator of the original Australian series) and executive-produced by Peter Tolan (“Rescue Me,” “Analyze This”) and Michael Wimer (“2012”). Academy Award nominee and Emmy Award winner Greg Kinnear (“Little Miss Sunshine,” “The Kennedys”) has been cast in the lead role of KEEGAN JOYE, a brilliant, but self-destructive criminal defense lawyer. Kinnear also will co-executive-produce.

Based on the Australian AACTA nominee for Best Television Drama Series, RAKE follows the chaotic and comedic life of criminal defense lawyer KEEGAN JOYE (Kinnear). Brilliant, frustratingly charming, and with zero filter, Keegan is one of life’s great addicts. His staggering lack of discretion and inability to self-censor land him the cases that nobody else wants, but behind that lies a resolute optimism and belief in justice that fuel his dogged determination to defend those who seem beyond redemption. In addition to Keegan’s cases within the justice system, the show follows his personal trials and tribulations, including his ongoing battle against the IRS, his mounting debt to his bookie, overlapping affairs and liaisons with women, a hormonal son, an exhausted ex-wife and the evolving relationship between his two married best friends, Ben and Scarlett.

Greg Kinnear received an Academy Award nomination for his work in the 1997 film “As Good as It Gets.” His recent role on “Modern Family” earned him a 2012 Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series. For his performance as John F. Kennedy in the cable miniseries “The Kennedys,” he was nominated for 2011 Emmy Award in the category of Outstanding Lead Actor in a Miniseries or Movie. In 1995, Kinnear and the producers of cable’s “Talk Soup” won the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Special Class Program.

In 2006, Kinnear starred in the Academy Award-nominated film “Little Miss Sunshine.” Other film credits include “Thin Ice,” “Green Zone,” “Flash of Genius,” “Ghost Town,” “Baby Mama,” “Feast of Love,” Invincible,” “Fast Food Nation,” “Bad News Bears,” “Stuck On You,” “Auto Focus,” “The Gift,” “Nurse Betty” and “You’ve Got Mail.” He will next be seen in Josh Boone’s “Writers,” co-starring Jennifer Connelly, Kristen Bell and Lily Collins. The film premiered at the 2012 Toronto Film Festival. He also has completed production on Craig Zisk’s “The English Teacher,” co-starring Julianne Moore, Lily Collins and Nathan Lane. RAKE is Kinnear’s first network drama pilot.

RAKE is produced by Sony Pictures Television, Fedora Entertainment and Essential Media & Entertainment Pty Ltd. The pilot is created and written by Peter Duncan. The pilot is executive-produced by Duncan, Peter Tolan, Michael Wimer, Richard Roxburgh (“Rake,” “Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga’Hoole”) and Ian Collie (“Rake”).





American Idol Season 12 Charlotte Auditions

29 01 2013

AmericanIdolLogoCharlotte, North Carolina. One of the places “The Hunger Games” was filmed. It is also known as the “Queen City.” Arrows were shot between diva queens Nicki Minaj and Mariah Carey. I was hoping they would get it out of the way at the top of the show and move on, but no, they had to drag it out. I do understand it happened and it has to be shown. But these are professional people. I love watching “So You Think You Can Dance” in part because the judges are not FIGHTING or being rude to each other. They can disagree with a performance but do it in a respectful manner. Nicki Minaj has some very insightful and constructive criticism for the contestants, but I’m finding myself drawn to the quiet energy of Keith Urban. I have never been a country music fan and all I know of Keith is that he is a successful country music singer from Australia who married Nicole Kidman. I actually now want to go listen to his music and find out more about him. If this is what I am going to see in Idol for the next several months, I really do not know if I can take it and for the first time since season 2, may decide not to watch. It is ironic that a Navy reservist, Brandy Hamilton, pleaded with them “Please don’t fight, it makes us sad” should be a wake-up call.

Nicki does like to talk, and, in fact, dominates the panel all the time. She is wonderful at lifting up a contestant’s spirits and finding something positive about them without crushing their spirit. But for me, she is beginning to sound like Charlie Brown’s teacher. She needs to be more concise with her comments. With four judges on the panel this year, I cannot imagine the live shows ever being on-time if things keep going on this way.

Scotty McCreery was on hand to pump up the crowd.  That is the American Idol finale results show that I went to see thanks to FOX VIP.

Naomi Morris. Nicki nicknames her “Omie” Nicki gives Naomi tips about her eye wear, that she needs to wear fake eyelashes and then her make-up will pop. Naomi massacred Aretha Franklin’s, “Respect.” Naomi should stick to making clothes. Perhaps she should try out for Project Runway? Marian looks like she is tired of bad singers. Randy I think was mesmerized at her boobs with the intermittent cringing of her singing.

So now that we have the bad singer out of the way, the next one should be a good one. Right? Joe Nemoyer decides that Andre Bocelli’s instruction to Chris Daughtry about singing while he was singing on the ground will improve his own singing. Nicki nicknames him “Jumanji.” He decides to sing, “Feeling Good” by Michael Buble because he is feeling….swell. How embarrassing for Joe that when the camera is getting a tight shot of his face laying down the audience was treated to…YUCK….a booger. Keith looks he feels a bit sorry for the kid. Randy thinks “never.” Mariah was a no. And Nicki just thinks she is in charge of the panel and talks and talks.

Brian Rittenberry’s wife has survived stage 4 appendix cancer. She got her hair and nails done on the chance she might get to see and/or hug Keith Urban. Brian sings, “Let It Be” by The Beatles. I like him. I got goosebumps and the wife got the hug she wanted.

Brian

Brian Rittenberry

Then there were three more yes votes, sending Jimmy Smith, Sarina-Joi Crowe, and Haley Davis through to Hollywood. Jimmy gave me goosebumps, while the other two had average voices. Na’Chelle Fullins-Lovell also made it through.

JimmySmith

Jimmy Smith

SarinaJoi

Sarina-Joi Crowe

HaleyDavis

Haley Davis

NaChelle

Na’Chelle Fullins-Lovell

 

We had too many good auditions in a row and when I saw Matthew Muse you knew it was going to be one of “those” auditions. Matthew also liked to talk about himself in the third person. Keith thought he was trying to channel Brad Paisley. Since I have never heard his music, I am going to assume that was not the case. Nicki looks like her blood sugar is dropping. “Cool dude.”

Next was the segment of the invitation. Dawgs are NOT allowed on the school bus, Randy, unless they are service dogs. You should know that. Isabelle Gonzalez was nominated by her aunt. She looks like Carly Rose Sonenclar. She sang a Sam Cooke song. It was not great. Sometimes I hear potential greatness, but sometimes she is off-key (I’ll chalk that up to nerves). I do like, however, that she has a different sound.

Isabel

Isabelle Gonzalez

Taisha Bethea sings in a rock band. But when she sang a Johnny Cash song, it did not sound like a Cash song turned into a rock song at all. The Alanis Morissette song was better. She is an average singer. It was two “yes” votes and two “no” votes. Apparently the tie-breaker in this city goes to Keith Urban, so it was a yes.

Taisha

Taisha Bethea

And then we get down to the controversial battle between Nicki and Mariah. Summer Cunningham sang “Lean on Me.” She has an average voice but nothing about her particularly stands out to me. Nicki said “yes.” Summer said she “already did the country thing” but she wanted to put more soul into it (insinuating that country music cannot be soulful). Keith Urban took offense to that. He has been pretty even with his emotions so far during his judging experiences. The comment obviously rubbed him the wrong way. Keith, Mariah and Randy said that she could be a country star, but was trying to also say nicely that her voice is not soulful R&B (like Summer thinks she is). Nicki took offense to all this because she did not think anyone should be pigeon-holed into a certain type of genre. I disagree with Nicki here. I am never going to hear a Nicki song thinking, “She could sing anything, even opera” because that is just not a reality. Summer is going through to Hollywood but how awkward was that for her. I don’t think she’ll make it to Vegas week.

Summer

Summer Cunningham

Day Two of Charlotte begins and Navy reservist Brandy Hamilton starts the day off well with an Etta James song. I got goosebumps. I really like her. As she was leaving she said, “Please don’t fight; it makes us sad.” Schooled by a warrior woman in the matters of peace.

Brandy

Brandy Hamilton

Ashley Scott (nicknamed Blondie) has a great personality. This is one of those times when the speaking voice does not match the singing voice. When she walked out with a gold ticket for Hollywood, some of her fellow contestants seemed shocked.

AshleySmith

Ashley Smith

Janelle Arthur played a young Dolly in a local theater production. She is through. And it was time for Keith Urban to fly to New York to be with Nicole Kidman as she gets an award from the New York Film Festival.

Janelle

Janelle Arthur

“The Voice of Charlotte”, Rodney Barber, sang Edward McCain’s “I’ll Be”. His voice gave me goosebumps.

My favorite of the night, however, was Candice Glover. She got cut in Vegas last year. I had heavy goosebumps here and Randy and Mariah gave her a standing ovation. Mariah said she was the best singer they had seen so far.

CandiceGlover

Candice Glover

“Frog Killer” Ja’Bria Barber sang Bonnie Raitt’s “Pride and Joy.” Is she related to Rodney Barber?  After hearing Candice Glover, this was just okay, not spectacular.

JaBria

Ja’Bria Barber

Brad Harris was rapper “Bakon” in Houston? Poor Houston.  He should just sing for pleasure.

Seretha Gunn would close the show with “Fresh Prince of Bel Air.” By the look on the judges’ faces, they thought it would be a disaster. It was good. Her daughter, London, accompanied her. London nicknamed Nicki — DunDun (of course that is the same as saying London to that small of a child).

Seretha

Seretha and London Gunn

A total of 37 contestants made it through to Hollywood week. Next up: Baton Rouge, Louisiana





The Following “Chapter Two” (S1E2)

24 01 2013

This preview of the second episode DOES contain information from the pilot episode. If you did not see the pilot episode and don’t want to know anything about it, please come visit another time.

TheFollowingCast“Chapter Two”–Appropriately titled as it is the second chapter in the psycho sequel for Joe Carroll (James Purefoy), charismatic serial killer turned cult leader and the second episode of this wonderful new series on FOX. During last episode, we learned that Joe has amassed “friends” while using internet access in prison to carry on for him. At the end of the previous episode we learned that “Denise” (aka Emma; Valorie Curry) took Joey (Kyle Catlett), the son of Claire Matthews (Natalie Zea) and Joe Carroll, from his home and met up with the two guys who had been posing as Sarah’s gay neighbors, known now as Jacob (Nico Tortorella) and Paul (Adan Canto). She tells Joey, “We’re on an adventure.” At the end of our story in the pilot, Jordy (Steve Monroe), who we discover practice on animals, walks into a sorority house at the end. We know that he is about to attempt to move up to humans. And Joe Carroll tells Ryan Hardy (Kevin Bacon), after his re-capture, that he knows Ryan slept with his wife . Joe intends to write a sequel to his first story. Joe was scheduled to be put to death in 3 weeks; obviously with Joey missing that will be postponed.

Some people expressed sadness on Twitter that they did not see Agent Mason (Jeananne Goossen) slated for any further episodes. That is explained at some point during “Chapter Two.

This episode is mainly devoted to moving the story forward while being in the present and cutting back to the past for back story in the expertly way they did in the pilot episode. We find out more about Emma, Jacob and Paul. We meet a new character, Debra Parker (Annie Parisse), who is a cult expert, but shhhh…. they are trying not to call his followers a cult quite yet until they discover more evidence, which they do, that squarely puts Joe Carroll as a Jesus Christ equivalent. (JC? Get it). This treasure trove of discovered information makes you want to hit “pause” on the DVR to take it all in and to look for clues for future episodes. Back story is also filled in on Joe Carroll, Claire Matthews, and Ryan Hardy. Jordy fits prominently into this episode as well. A new follower, or acolyte, is discovered, but his true face is still unknown to us.

If a serial killer ever wants to set you up with a date of someone he knows, the correct response is “no.” And I think the creepiest line of “Chapter Two” is when Joe tells Ryan, “Jordy was a mere puppy.” If you saw the pilot, you will understand the reference.

Once again I was on the edge of my seat. Many times I said, “Wow, I was NOT expecting that.” There were times I screamed. “Chapter Two” did not lose any of the things people loved about the pilot episode.

If you missed the pilot, FOX is planning an Encore performed of “The Following” on Friday, January 25, at 9:00 Eastern/8:00 central. “Chapter Two” episode of THE FOLLOWING airs Monday, Jan. 28 (9:00 Eastern/8:00 Central) on FOX. Joe Carroll wants to be friends. Do you want to be his?

My thanks again to the FOX VIP program and Fox Broadcasting for the preview of this wonderful episode.





American Idol Season 12 Chicago Auditions

18 01 2013

AmericanIdolLogoA lot of great talent blew through the windy city during the Chicago auditions. The little skit at the beginning was cute where the person on the phone thought their friend got through but she did not. It was a nice change of pace, but I wondered how much it was staged or actors were involved. And the rivalry between the divas, Nicki Minaj and Mariah Carey continued to evolve, while Keith Urban felt like a scratching post. Meow. Nicki, while having some constructive comments, also left me thinking “what is she on tonight?” Nicki giving contestants nicknames is also going to get old real quick.

With her father playing piano for Vince Gill, Mackenzie Wasner, age 17, got a lot of experience on stage because Vince would let her perform. She had a beautiful voice but I felt her vocal range was limited from what I heard. There was no “wow” factor for me. I felt like I was listening to some Joan Baez.

Mackenzie

Mackenzie Wasner

It was a quick “no” from the judges for Austin Earles who massacred Mariah’s song, “Fantasy.” If you are going to Mariah, especially in front of her, you have to try at the very least not to insult her.

Coming off a birthday fundraiser for Barack Obama, Kiara Lanier came in confidently and performed “The Prayer” by Celine Dion. The best part was that Nicki Minaj was talking, talking, talking, and Kiara said, “Could I say something?” Then she turns to Mariah Carey to share she was a huge fan, and which point Nicki quickly shut up. Keith Urban said she sounded a little like Aaron Neville. I thought it was good, but it was a little bit off-key and her vibrato cracks at times (maybe nerves?).

Kiara

Kiara Lanier

Nicki was not “wowed” by Stephanie Schimel who sang “Dream A Little Dream Of Me” by The Mamas and the Papas. Once the other judges put her through, Nicki said she said “no” because she was wearing purple eye shadow like her and felt they have a rivalry going on. WHAT????????? Nicki is beginning to act like Paula.

StephanieSchmiel

Stephanie Schmiel

If you have to wear a costume to your singing audition, it is 99.99% likely you are not going to be able to sing well. Melissa Bush sang “Downtown” by Petula Clark. I hope she is a better massage therapist. Then Nicki leaves her with the comment, “You’ll always be my bush?” WHAT??????????????

Melissa

Melissa Bush

Gabe Brown brought his rock-and-roll/best-of-Jack-Black imitation and cookies! This led me to wonder if they have official taste-testers for the judges. Nicki said she would call him “Curly” because of his hair I imagine. He is a really funny guy, but I did not appreciate the loudness of his voice which made the song “Give Me Shelter” border on a screamfest. I think if he dials it down a little bit, he could represent the rock-and-roll crowd well.

Gabe

Gabe Brown

Computer animator/dancer Kevin Nabity ruined “One Week” by Barenaked Ladies and then went on to “Come Sail Away” by Styx. This is “not for you probably.” Probably? Randy Jackson was more to the point: “Let the singing go.”

KevinNabity

Kevin Nabity

Isabelle Parell, age 15, was channeling Mandy Moore’s character from the movie, A Walk To Remember. She asked for someone to sing a duet with her to “Baby It’s Cold Outside” and both Keith and Mariah were happy to help. I like her personality but I would like to see more range from her. It was a “no” from Randy without any further explanation, but she is through to Hollywood.

Isabelle

Isabelle Parell

At this point, Keith Urban had to leave for a Vegas concert, leaving Randy Jackson to referee between the ladies.

Griffin Peterson is very good-looking but he has just an average voice. Nicki has nicknamed him, “Grrr.” He sang “Washed By The Water” by Need to Breathe. Meanwhile outside, we discover where he gets his flirting genes from–his mother. Ryan fulfilled a bucket-list request for her for a kiss (on the cheek). Randy said “no” as well to him, but Mariah and Nicki found common ground for a yes.

Griffin

Griffin Peterson

I love Curtis Finch, Jr. He is a tutor at a private school in St. Louis. He sang, “God is Able” by Smokie Norful, who coincidentally Randy Jackson spoke to the night before. Testify! I got goosebumps! You know what that means. Nicki has nicknamed him “Finchy.” Curtis asked if his friend could meet Mariah because it would “change her life” and they were happy to accommodate. There was finally a nice moment between Nicki Minaj and Mariah Carey where Nicki complimented her and she said “thank you.”

CurtisFinch

Curtis Finch

I liked Mariah Pulice‘s audition with “Let It Be” by The Beatles. Mariah Carey said the name is now the 62nd most popular name. I checked that statistic and it is more like 98th in 2011. It was 78th in 2008 (which was the best year for the name). I also liked that Mariah Pulice shook the judges’ hands and thanked them for giving her a chance.

MariahPulice

Mariah Pulice

And at this point, the show goes into the day 2 auditions. Keith Urban is back but not between the ladies!

Although I am not a particular fan of country music, Brandy Neely, age 17, sang with a lot of power to the Hank Williams’ song, “Your Cheatin’ Heart.” She is very confident.

Brandy

Brandy Neely

I also like Josh Holiday. He sang “Back At One” by Brian McKnight. I liked his runs.

Josh

Josh Holiday

Courtney Williams is also a very nice singer and was put through with four yeses.

Courtney

Courtney Williams

Andrew Jones sang “Knock on Wood” by Amii Stewart. I have not heard that song in a long time and enjoyed it.

AndrewJones

Andrew Jones

I thought a looming disaster was about to happen with Clifton Duffin whose parents have never heard him sing before. A secret squirrel. He sang “Superstar” by Luther Vandross, his mother’s favorite song. Ryan sneaked the parents in and his mother became very tearful at hearing the beauty of her son’s singing. Mariah cried. Keith Urban said he got all teary-eyed seeing his mother cry. Theme music plays, “Secrets” by OneRepublic (I’m not joking).

Clifton

Clifton Duffin

Ieisha Cotton is a professional dancer who dances better than sings. She tried Ashanti’s “Thank You”. Mariah tells her stay with her dancing. Then Mariah claimed to be distracted by Nicki when Nicki asked her for a yes or no and Mariah said “yes.” When Ieisha comes out, she informs her family, “They said I’d be better off dancing….so hopefully I can make it on next year.” WHAT???? What part of stay with dancing means you can make it on next year. Try out for “So You Think You Can Dance” instead (but her dancing was not that great either).

Ieisha

Ieisha Cotton

What planet the judges on when they gave four yeses to return contestant Johnny Keyser I just don’t know. I did not think it was good enough anymore for the level of competition that they have in season 12. Nicki says to Mariah, “You’re dismissed.”

JohnnyKeyser

Johnny Keyser

The most unique act of both the New York and Chicago auditions was Kez Ban (pronounced Bahn) Sauerbier. She is a street performer and has recently started doing fire performance. Keith made a funny comment about “old flames” when he asked her if she was seeing anyone. She is different and I LIKE HER A LOT, especially when she sang her original song. I’ll remember her. She is in total shock that she made it through because she is quirky. Randy loves her.

Kez

Kez Ban Sauerbier

A montage is played of Les Miserables–those who did not make it through. I blame the people in their lives who never told them they did not sing well.

A lot of time was wasted on Ashley Curry, a delusional college student who attends St. Mary’s University in Minnesota studying musical theater. I guess any college will take your money and find ways to keep it. She has a twin and apparently singing is the only thing that separates the two of them. The look the twin gave Ashley in the holding room was more of, “Girl, you are going to crash and burn” even if her words are encouraging. I think the twin is the smarter one. Ashley ruined “Mamma Knows Best” by Jessie J. Randy was laughing the whole time. She asks to sing it again because she sang it in the wrong key and it is done in the SAME DAMN KEY. The judges cannot keep their laughter contained anymore. Mariah actually got up to try to contain herself and went to look out the window. Randy tells her someone should have told you before (that she cannot sing). Security walks her off as she tries to sing it a third time. Her sister says, “She’ll never stop singing (then a pause)….ever.” Mom reinforces her AGAIN, “It is for you.” Ashley blames the judges’ response on them being tired. Sweetie–I was not tired. I listened to it twice, once on one day and again on another, and you need to move on to a different career. Perhaps your acting is better. Please don’t contribute to noise pollution.

AshleyCurry

Ashley Curry

Last was a story about Lazaro Arbos. He has been stuttering since the age of 6 when he and his family lived in Cuba. When they moved here when Lazaro was age 10, the stuttering got worse. He has had a lot of therapy but has never improved. I think that he should seek out a speech therapist that specializes in stuttering. He sang, “Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Simon and Garfunkel. A few of his words were wrong, “I will leave me down” instead of “I will lay me down” but it is okay. He has to be nervous and indeed after the song he is sweating quite a bit. I was curious why people who stutter while speaking do not stutter while singing. This is what I found: “The reason for not stuttering while singing is the prolonging of the syllables.”

Lazaro

Lazaro Arbos

Forty-seven contestants in total are through from Chicago to Hollywood. Next week is Charlotte, North Carolina, the site of the breaking story about the feud between Nicki and Mariah.





American Idol Season 12 New York Auditions

17 01 2013

AmericanIdolLogoSeason 12 got underway on Wednesday night with the New York auditions (actually Newark, NJ). Randy Jackson, resident dawg, was joined by Mariah Carey, Keith Urban and Nicki Minaj. They had a good rhythm about them. Randy had an easier time saying, “Don’t ever sing again”, while the others were more kind, “It’s no for now.”

First up was Michael Buonopane with “We Will Rock You” by Queen. He had a big personality but is not a good singer. Nicki asked, “Are you going to sing?” Nicki is a no, but Mariah is a yes? Mariah needs to be more discriminating. Is this the beginning of the diva battle? I would have said, “No way, no how.”

Average singer Tenna Torres was up next. She had previously attended Camp Mariah and had pictures to prove it. Of COURSE Mariah remembers her (probably not). Tenna sings Carole King’s, “You’ve Got A Friend.” She makes it through to Hollywood. I thought her voice was a bit shrilly, but if she works a little on that, it could be very pleasant.

Tenna

Tenna Torres

James Bae came in, a Justin Bieber wannabe who Mariah felt might be better suited as a DJ. Randy is quite explicit in his no and Mariah laughs at Randy.

The quite promising Christina “Isabelle” Pasqualone sang “Summertime.” I love, love, love her voice. However, I laughed at her remark to Mariah, “I want to bring that great music back” (referring to Mariah’s music from the early 1990’s). Does this mean Christina (or does she go by Isabelle) mean that now Mariah is NOT singing great music? I’m sure she did not, but when one is nervous, funny stuff does come out of one’s mouth.

Christina

Christina “Isabelle” Pasqualone

Inspiring dancer, singer, actor Evan Ruggiero came in. He should have started with “Wanted Dead or Alive” by Bon Jovi versus “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz. He brought in the guitar but didn’t use it until they asked him to sing a different song. Maybe Nigel Lythgoe should let him try out for So You Think You Can Dance if he is tapping. His story of his battle through osteosarcoma and holding onto his dream should help some people.

Jessica Kartalis‘ mother nominated her for an invitation to come sing in front of the judges. When Randy delivered the number to her and I heard her singing then, I knew this was not going to be a good thing. She did not sound good in that place of business. She tried to play an original song on her guitar and sing and it was a disaster. She has some nice tones in there, but I agree with the judges that she needs a year or two to mature and decide what kind of singer she wants to be.

Jessica

Jessica Kartalis

Shira Gavrielov had a number one hit in Israel. I like her voice. A few notes were on the borderline of being shrieking but overall I like her look and sound. Nicki loves her.

Shira

Shira Gavrielov

Frankie Ford is a bundle of energy from Brooklyn (my hometown). He was adopted at age 2 and his adopted mother is his rock. He sings on a train for work and has a lot of drive. You can tell he will absorb everything that he learns in Hollywood and he is put through. The obvious puns of “Frankie Goes to Hollywood” ensue. And at this point, it was the end of day one.

FrankieFord

Frankie Ford

Benjamin Gaisey, who I like to call Rubberband Man, dressed in plastic with a Cee Lo Green-like wig was just horrible. His squeaky suit sounded better than he did. But he does make you laugh. Perhaps he should consider going into comedy.

BenjaminGaisey

Benjamin Gaisey

Rozanna Shindelman suffers from delusional-parent-syndrome. You know–the ones who are not honest with their children and make them think they are better whatevers than they are. That was really bad. “No for today.” Seriously? That was being kind. I think it will be a “no” forever.

Blueberry farmer Sarah Restuccio, who looks like she could be Natalie Portman’s cousin, did Carrie Underwood’s “Mama’s Song“, which was okay. I was more blown away with her rendition of Nicki Minaj’s “Super Bass.”

SarahRestuccio

Sarah Restuccio

Albert Chang needs to meet my schoolmate, Franc D’Ambrosio, the longest running phantom on Broadway to see how that song is done right. Rozanna sang better than he did and that is saying something. See my school mate Franc below:

AlbertChang

Albert Chang

The best for me of all the New York auditions is Angela Miller. Angela suffers from a percentage of hearing loss in both of her ears but sings still like an angel singing “Mamma Knows Best” by Jessie J. She gets four yeses.

AngelaMiller

Angela Miller

Brett Holt claims to be the biggest American Idol fan but does not get Ryan’s trivia questions all correct. He sang “When I Fall In Love” for the judges this time, having auditioned 7 times previously.

Gurpreet Singh Sarin, now nicknamed the Turbanator, has 40-50 different color-coordinated turbans that he wears. He is a smooth talker. He is not the best singer, but good enough for a try at the grueling Hollywood week. Keith Urban is the only “no” on the panel.

Gurpreet

Gurpreet Singh Sarin

Last to sing was Ashlee Feliciano with an uplifting family story. They adopt medically complex children. She sang Corinne Bailey Rae’s, “Put Your Records On.” It was good. But she has a certain light that radiates from her that makes me remember her more.

Ashlee

Ashlee Feliciano

What We Learned About Our Judges

Nicki Minaj once wanted to be a city bus driver. When she is nervous, her British accent comes out. She is also trying to be the dominant force on the judges’ panel. Keith did some busking in his life. He also has a good sense of humor, suggesting Ben Gaisey (Rubberband Man) looked like Tom Jones. Randy Jackson once wanted to be a NASCAR driver. Mariah can say a word or two in French and Hebrew much to Nicki’s apparent annoyance. And while not a judge, Ryan Seacrest has been exhausted now for 10 years and he should never try to do Bollywood dancing.

Judges

Mariah Carey, Keith Urban, Nicki Minaj, and Randy Jackson

Forty-one contestants are going to Hollywood from New York. Thursday night: Chicago auditions!





“The Following” Pilot Episode Preview

9 01 2013

For people who like their drama terrifying, dark and complex, Fox Broadcasting’s “THE FOLLOWING” will offer up a lot of all of it. This show is not for the faint at heart as evidenced by the first 5 minutes of the show. Kevin Williamson of “Scream” fame has done his homework with serial killer and cult leader Charles Manson immediately springing to my mind as a Carroll equivalent. As serial killer Joe Carroll, James Purefoy (“Rome”) offers up a performance that rivals Anthony Hopkins in “The Silence of the Lambs.” A literature professor particularly fond of the works of Edgar Allan Poe, Carroll goes on a killing spree that ultimately ends in his original capture by Ryan Hardy (Kevin Bacon). Several weeks before his execution date, Carroll escapes which brings Ryan Hardy out of retirement. Ryan is not alone working the case. He is joined by FBI agents Mike Weston (Shawn Ashmore from “X-Men”), Agent Reilly (Billy Brown from “Dexter”), and Debra Parker (Annie Parisse from “Person of Interest“).

While in prison, Carroll has been busy amassing followers. He is crafty, intelligent, charismatic and terrifying. He has thought out each move of his chess game, being the master manipulator that is common with cult leaders. Carroll’s ex-wife Claire Matthews (Natalie Zea from “Justified”) and son Joey (Kyle Catlett from “Mercy”) also are key figures in this new drama. The story expertly cuts back and forth between current day and the past but always has a great forward motion like you were used to from the show, “24.”

THE FOLLOWING begins at 9:00 eastern, 8:00 central time on Monday, January 21, 2013.

My thanks again to Fox Broadcasting and the Fox VIP program for allowing access to this new thriller.

TheFollowingCast

Follow some of the cast/crew on Twitter:

Kevin Williamson   @kevwilliamson

Marcos Siega @MSiega

Adam Armus  @AdamArmus

Ari Margolis @jonxproductions

Kevin Bacon  @kevinbacon

James Purefoy @JamesPurefoy

Shawn Ashmore @ShawnRAshmore

The Following on Fox  @TheFollowingFOX