Monday, December 29, 2008

The Hills: Will Heidi and Lauren Be Friends?

The season finale of "The Hills" felt a lot like a series farewell. It had the type of resolution of story lines that was witnessed when the Evans family of "Good Times" finally left the ghetto. However, during the after show, viewers were assured that Lauren and "The Hills" will return.

That's good 'cause I really want to see where Audrina and Justin Bobby are going. He spit out a ring for her and shared some really sweet emotions. It would have been more touching if he were actually able to part his lips. The mumbling sort of ruined it for me, but Audrina lapped it right up. Good for them. What will happen next season? Maybe those two will be the new stars of MTV's "Newlyweds." Where does that leave Speidi?
I'm not sure, but their about-face at the Justice of the Peace means there's more time for Heidi to change her mind. However, it was actually a sweet moment. Spencer realized Heidi was unhappy with her mom's absence from the "ceremony." (Thanks, Stephanie) I hope that was evidence that Spencer will put Heidi first before his own selfish desires. Will she get the big, traditional wedding she's always wanted? I'd say she's one step closer.

So, what's up with Lauren? The season ended with her and Heidi having a civil conversation. There was even a hug, and Lauren said she'd be there for Heidi if Heidi really needed her. Ummm. Wait 'til Spencer gets a load of that! I guess we'll have to wait 'til next season

What did you think of the season? Do you plan to hang in there for another season? If so, which story lines will be bringing you back?

Sunday, December 21, 2008

Blush


Lifetime's first reality competition series, "Blush," pitted make-up artists against one another. My favorite contestant, Nolan, won the big prize. I also liked Todd. I'd party with those two any day. Maxi rounded out the final three. He's what you'd call "elaborate" or "extra." His main criticism the entire series was his over-the-top attitude. "Blush" had some of the biggest personalities I've seen on a reality show; however, there was no violence. So, I give them props for keeping it funky minus the fisticuffs. LOL.

Honestly, I'm not a big makeup person. A little lip gloss and eyeliner is my everyday, but I definitely have more respect for face paint now. I wish I knew how to cover blemishes with foundation, and do that whole smokey eye thing. I'm starting to understand why DeShawn of "Housewives of ATL" has her own in-house, make-up artist (but I don't excuse her).

There were women on the show, but the most talented in the group were men. That made me think of "Project Runway." The majority of winners on that show have been men. Why are men so into fashion? Is it because they spend a lot of time staring at women? Is it because they'd secretly like to put the clothes on themselves? Are they fulfilling fantasies? Mmmm?

Either way, the fellas have got lots of talent whether it's doing make up or designing clothes. Let's hear it for the boys.

Did you watch "Blush"? Who was your favorite? Do you have a new appreciation for make up? Will there be a season two? Can someone show me how to do the smokey eye?

Stylista's Star


The CW's "Stylista" took a handful of 20-somethings and gave them the opportunity to win a Junior Editor position at Elle Magazine. Surprisingly, few of the candidates had actual journalism experience. You don't see people on "Project Runway" who've never sewed before, but I digress.

Johanna took home the prize and won the position. Although she didn't always shine in the weekly challenges, she did seem to be the most passionate about the job. She also worked hard when some others seemed to be a little more strategic, yet less dedicated about the hustle.

Early on, I liked Ashlie, but she turned me off when she spazzed out about Colonge being eliminated. I never liked Megan; although, her confessionals were among the most entertaining. Katie was dramatic. So, I missed her when she left. I don't think the others warrant mention.

Did you watch? What did you think? Does Tyra have another hit on her hands? Will there be a season two? Can this be considered a spin-off of "The Devil's Wears Prada"? Will I ever be able to view the pages of Elle the same way again?

Momma's Boys


NBC's newest reality show, Momma's Boys, is like "The Bachelor" on steroids. Instead of one bachelor, there are three men looking for the right woman. However, unlike "The Bachelor," the men on "MB," have their moms along for the ride to help make that final decision.

The relationship between these grown men and their moms is troublesome, to say the least. Many of them still live at home. One mother admits to calling her son 100 times a day, and he answers each time! Another apparently tells women that her son is gay to keep them away. It'd be an understatement to call the relationships "dysfunctional."

In the premiere, Khalood -- one of the mothers -- offended several women when she boldly announced her preference for a white, petite, Catholic daughter-in-law. She refuses to accept Black, Jewish or full figured women who may be interested in her son. Of course, this caused some tension, and one black girl argued with Khalood about her views. I'm not sure why she cares. Personally, I'd be glad her views were expressed early, and I'd stay clear of her and her son. Who needs 'em?

The first elimination happens in the following episode. It will be interesting to see if the minority women are cut from the show first. We know that's Khalood's preference. Will she learn some tolerance from this experience? Will the fellas defy their mothers, or will the moms maintain total control? Are there any girls on the show who can please both the guy and his mom? Will anyone find happiness? Will there be more arguments? Will you watch?

Monday, December 15, 2008

The Hills: The Buzzed Bride


There have been rumors circulating that Heidi was somehow under the influence when she agreed to a private, impromptu wedding with beau Spencer. On the latest episode of "The Hills," the rumors are confirmed.

If the episode stands up to editing, it looks like Spencer manipulated Heidi by flying her to a romantic island and throwing Patrone shots down her throat. Then, he suggested marriage. She agreed. That's not to suggest that she didn't want to marry him, but most girls don't dream of stumbling down the aisle with a hangover on their wedding day.

On next week's season finale, Heidi's mom reacts. That should be interesting.

Again, I ask. How long will it be before the Speidi spin off? I'm taking bets.

Heroes: Lots of Dead Heroes

The latest episode was deemed the season finale, but the show returns in February. Whether I'll be returning to NBC to watch it, is another issue. Whether there are any heroes left to watch next season, is what we'll explore now.

It seems a lot of heroes took their last bow. Claire lost her biological mother, the fire thrower. The fear feeder, also known as Marlo from "The Wire," was iced to death. Sylar was killed, and a few other rogue "heroes" succumbed to death in various ways. Elle and Arthur Petrelli were murdered last week. So, only the original Petrellis, Hiro, Ando, Mohinder, Tracy, Parkman and Daphne seem to be left? Am I missing anybody. The list is getting shorter.

Yes, Hiro did survive. The last episode had him hanging on a ledge. He pulled himself to safety, but was almost sliced to death by his father. Is it me or is Hiro starting to remind you of Charlie Brown. Whenever he tries to do something, I end up thinking, "Good Grief." Please, help this wayward hero get himself together! I can't take it anymore. I'm expecting a girl dressed in blue to pull a football from him any second now.

The next season's preview promises more darkness. The heroes will be hunted and captures. Oh, joy!

Will you watch, or have you had it with these heroes?

Secret Millionaire



I stumbled upon a new Fox series last week. It had the same philanthropic feel of "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition." I found myself wondering if the network could write the whole series off as charitable giving.

I digress. The show, "Secret Millionaire," transplanted a multi-millionaire into an impoverished, urban neighborhood. He was given $14 a day to live on, and his goal was to walk in the shoes of the less fortunate and then give away $100K.

So, after the millionaire volunteered at soup kitchens and sat down with those less fortunate a la "Good Times," he learned the joys of giving back and provided some much-needed assistance to his new friends.

I hope the series ends with a reunion show or "Where Are They Now?" segment. I'd like to know if those given the money were actually able to make better lives for themselves. In today's economy, $100K doesn't go as far as it used to.

I'll probably tune in again next week. It's a feel good show that makes you grateful for what you have and want to give to somebody else.

It airs Thursdays of Fox. Check it out.

The Hills: Spiraling Toward the Spin Off

"The Hills" began with Lauren meeting Whitney. Now, it's time to bid farewell to Whit. She's packing up and moving away from California and away from Lauren. However, it doesn't look like she'll be alone. She's got new friendships to look forward to. One particular dark and handsome fellow steals some smooches with Whit before she quickly heads back to California. Will we be seeing more of him on "The City"? I think so. He has a bit of a Justin Bobby thing going on, but for Whitney's sake, I hope similarities end with the mussed up hair.

In the same old news, Spencer continues to criticize Stephanie's choice in a man. Isn't that ironic? I'm surprised that Stephanie listens to her bone head brother at all. She can't possibly respect his opinion that much. Can she?

What do you think? Is Spencer looking out for his sister's best interest, or just being a jerk? Will Whitney's romance with the New Yorker continue? What will happen to Lauren and "The Hills"?

Heroes: Papa Petrelli Dead?!


Sylar's a bad guy again, and although I'm no supporter of evil, I'm glad he's not giving me cavities anymore. Last week, he killed his lover Elle. This week, he killed Papa Petrelli after finding out that he was not the brother of Nathan and Peter. I wonder if he was more upset about not being a Petrelli or about being lied to and used? Either way, it ended badly for the leader of "those with abilities."

Right before his death, Papa Petrelli added the catalyst to Mohinder's formula. Supposedly, this will give regular folks a chance to have powers, and hopefully, it will reverse whatever Mohinder did to himself. When the formula is tried on a former 4400, it works well, and he starts throwing chairs through glass to show his strength.

I wish Hiro could show some of that strength. It was nice to see him reunited with his mother -- if only briefly; however, it was sort of pathetic to see him persuade his mother to give him the catalyst and then lose it not an hour later! He told her he would protect it, but that's not exactly what went down. Hiro ended up hanging off a building from a flag pole. I need for him to get it together. Part of his charm was knowing Hiro was going to become a Jedi master. What happened? When does that kick in?

What do you think? Will Mohinder be cute again? Will Hiro ever get it together? Is Papa Petrelli really dead? Will Sylar ever go good again? Will the formula work this time, or will the heroes need to save the world from the monsters they create?

Bromance!


MTV is taking a page out of the VH1 Celebreality book, and extending the "Laguna" franchise as far as the universe will allow -- or at least from the West Coast to the East. From "Laguna," came "The Hills." Now, "The Hills" is spinning off "The City," featuring Whitney in NYC, and "Bromance," where Lauren's former crush Brody tries to find a new friend to replace Spencer. I guess it's like Paris' BFF show without all the pink. Nine guys compete for the honor of partying, vacationing and drinking with Brody.


A great after show would be to have Spencer comment on each episode of "Bromance" after it airs. What does Spencer think of his potential replacements? Speaking of which, how far are we from a new "Newlyweds" series featuring Speidi?
Will you watch "Bromance"? Are you glad "Laguna" is living on, or is enough enough already?

Sunday, December 7, 2008

The Hills: Reconciliation

So, it was no big surprise that Audrina and Lauren made up on the latest episode. Audrina sincerely apologized, and in the process, she revealed that she wasn't happy with the person she'd become while dating Justin. Will she break things off with him? I'm doubting it.

While Audrina worked on fixing her relationship with Lauren, Stephanie worked on improving her relationship with her grandmother, who clearly prefers Spencer over Stephanie. I believe grandmom and Heidi are the only two people in the world of this opinion. Stephanie decides she'll try to be closer to her grandmother despite granny's favoritism. I do think granny and Spencer have a lot in common.

I, for one, am ready for this season to end. I would like for Holly and Heidi to patch things up for the finale, but I'm not holding my breath. I'd also like some resolution to the Audrina and Justin drama. What do you think? How will the season end?

Heroes: Total Eclipse of the Sun, Part 2

So, as we all predicted, the heroes' powers returned once the eclipse ended. Claire healed herself after being split open. This would make the second time she's come alive after such a procedure. Nathan can fly again. Daphne's running once more. Hiro's time traveling, and Sylar is back to splitting skulls. That's bad news for Elle, who became a victim of the monster she helped create.

Unfortunately for Mohinder, the end of the eclipse also brought back his scales. Will viewers be forced to see him turned into the Fly for the remainder of the season? I sure hope not. It's an unnecessary sidebar to the main story line, if you ask me. Why they felt the need to disfigure one of the favorite and most attractive characters on the show, I do not know.

So, where is this season going? I think the heroes are still trying to prevent the synthetic mutation serum. I'm unsure, but maybe that will become clear by the season finale.

What do you think? Where is this all going?