ENTERTAINMENT IN 2013

 

                       Entertainment in 2013

  Hey there, guys! We are motoring through the new year, and before we get too much farther, I wanted to do a very quick piece on some of the top works to look forward to this year.  This year is bringing many huge projects to the big screen and I'm going to recap the ten I believe are the most important to see.  So take notes!

  Though it's not part of the list, it is important to note for readers that "Bloodfire Quest", the newest addition from Terry Brooks is now in store.  It is a  very exciting read, with roots that are buried in the Elfstones of Shannara and the High Druid Series. The finalizing sequel is due out this summer.   Diehard Shannara fans, you will not be disappointed.  As always, Brooks shines.

  Despite not being a huge gamer, I'm also pleased to announce that Starcraft 2-Heart of the Swarm is now currently available.   It breaks my heart that the incredible storyline embedded here is limited to video game players only. Heart of the swarm is simply amazing, especially when we become immersed and personalized with the Swarm, a ravenous, brutal race known as the Zerg.  In Starcraft, the sheer brutality and insectual expendability was truly a wonderful shift from the human aspect, but they were singularily portrayed with no deeper desire other than to kill at the whims of the Overmind.  With Heart of the Swarm, we will see a very heavy, humanistic, emotional influence that will be mixed with the animalistic instincts of the Zerg. The potential for this is overwhelming.  While there are novels out there that convey some of the storyline, it does not portray the betrayal and the notions of race that Starcraft has become so famous for. Heart of the Swarm also captures the iconic and beautiful love story between Sarah Kerrigan and Jim Raynor. Perhaps one day we shall see it on the big screen...maybe one day...

  On to the article.

#10.  Oz: The Great and Powerful

 

  Coming in at tenth place is Oz: The Great and Powerful.  For most people, they would likely rank this one higher.  For me, I think that this movie by itself draws too heavily on the Wizard of Oz. The young cast of Mila Kunis and James Franco unfortunately must rely on the massively influential work of the original film.  While the movie is ultimately enjoyable and a visual achievement, the challenge for the actors lies in drawing their characters well enough that it not only will stand alone, but also will ultimately benefit "The Wizard of Oz" rather than taking away from it.  Still worth a look.

 

#9.  Kick-Ass 2

  For those who have not seen the original Kick-Ass, I will tell you that I was pleasantly suprised with this movie.  From the trailers, it seemed like a farsical superhero movie with unlikely candidates.  Upon watching the movie, I was pleased to see that the movie actually asks great personal questions regarding power and purpose, and presented a movie with a very dark edge rather than a goofy ten movie.  Toward the end, I was actually swept up with the plot and when the ending arrived with the cliffhanger, I vowed the sequel would be viewed with a much more open mind.  So here's keeping my promise.

 

#8. Hunger Games: Catching Fire

  If Kick-Ass 2 is to be watched with a more open mind, I daresay that Catching Fire will be more closeminded.  The first book/movie was more or less a success, with nods to Richard Connell's "The Most Dangerous Game".  My personal view of the books is one of overall satisfaction, with the exception of the third book.   It feels as though creativity was drying up, and with the growing trend of series writing, it became more important for the author to write another book than to create a valid ending of a story.  No doubt, the third movie of the set could actually benefit the book by capturing a much more visual and comprehensive story, but the third book alone is crap, and not very well written.  Catching Fire should be entertaining enough, and Hollywood can turn this good book into a formidable sequel.  So enjoy the second installment, and we'll see if it cannot salvage the third.

 

#7.  Percy Jackson: Sea of Mgonsters

  Although boasting a slightly more juvenile standpoint to Greek mythology, I was pleased with the first Percy Jackson movie, the story of a young boy who learns that he is the son of Poseidon, and strives to gain identity while solving a mystery. Perhaps it was because Sean Bean is Zeus...Nevertheless, I'm interested in seeing this sequel.  My wish is that the writers shed the light, comic air that plagued the first and tap into a heavier, dramatic aspect.

 

#6. Star Trek into Darkness

  Yes, I hate myself for this one.  I am a Star Wars fan, through and through.  I hate Star Trek, but I did see the first movie that came a few years back, and it was entertaining enough.  I concede to you, Trekkies, and I will watch your damn second movie...but let it be said that Star Wars and Stargate are far better in general.  I may boast an open mind, but not without drawing my line in the sand! 

 

#5. Iron Man 3

   Since the Avengers, it is safe to say we will likely be seeing much more Marvel in the future.  We are now squarely at their mercy.  Iron Man 3 is due out very soon, and to the credit of the writers, the trailer looks incredibly well done.  It may be less of the "Tony Stark" persona and may reach a much  more personal level with Downey's character building.  Regardless, if I were to guess, this newest movie is chosen for a reason: This movie should raise the stakes for the multitude of Marvel movies coming out, so they'll likely start their lineup with a bang.  Don't screw it up, Ant Man.

 

#4.  Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug

   Ah, the milking of Tolkien's book "The Hobbit" should prove that we as a society are shameless.  I bet you have already seen the first one, and the general consensus is that most people were not even aware that the movie was only the first part of the book.  At least Harry Potter had the decency to say "Part One" and "Part Two" for their final pic.  As I seen this in theatre, the crowd groaned in agony as the credits rolled mid-story.  For this, I recommend that every one of those people read my column before seeing part two of the Hobbit.  Did you know that the Hobbit will also be a trilogy?  Now you have no excuse for being left high and dry with the Desolation of Smaug! 

  As for the movie, not much needs to be said.  As long as it is visually stunning and captivating as normal, the movie will have no troubles.  However, if I see any more of Frodo or anyone who is a remote doppelganger of Elijah Wood, heads will roll.

 

#3. Red 2

   Action movies are a dime a dozen.  As far as Bruce Willis is concerned, he will always be known for his roles in the Die Hard Saga.  However, I believe as an action star, Red does a much better job capturing our bald badass.  Assisted by Morgan Freeman, Helen Mirren and John Malkovich, there is really so much room for success in "Red".  The first movie had excellent writing, and the comedy was incredibly subtle and witty.  With the second installment to be released, Red 2 can only be improved upon, and my recommendation is that you watch both.  And by recommend, I mean demand.  

 

#2. Despicable Me 2

  Alas, my guilty obsession will come true, and I shall take my place amongst mothers and school-deprived children this summer.  Despicable Me 2 is sure to be a blast, despite the fact that I know nothing about the plot.  I hear talks of aliens, but does it matter?  The minions will make this entire movie, so I really couldn't care how good or bad this movie is.  Papoi.

 

#1. Thor: The Dark Worlds

   Yes, another Marvel movie.  I believe that while the first Thor was visually impressive with the creation of Asgard and the BiFrost (the thing that looks scarily like Mariokart's Rainbow Road), the movie rushed to build the characters and it was a bit shaky.  The love story between Liam Hemsworth and Natalie Portman was lukewarm at best.  Thank god, or Thor, that Anthony Hopkins was there to save the day.  Thor: The Dark Worlds should be much better, since the movie will once again feature Thor and Loki, and will likely explore the actual story with greater detail.  Coming out in November, I place my bet on Thor 2 to capture the underdog crown this year.



*Movies in the running*

-After Earth featuring Will Smith-didn't make the list due to a less than impressive trailer.

-The Hangover Part 3-While I belong to the group that believes the second was better than the first, I also believe the third will not impress.  Where will they lose a friend now, outer space?

-World War Z-Did not make the cut due to Brad Pitt as the star.  Let's hope he gets eaten.  Go Zombieland

-Man of Steel-So many superheroes, so many superman movies.  Should be ok though. 

-The Wolverine-Ditto-There are too many Marvel movies already on the list, and this would be overkill.  It would be like capturing a Rattata with a master ball.

-Anchorman 2-Please, please, please do not suck.

 

*UPDATE* MONDAY MARCH 26/12

                                                               I DECLARE WAR!

  In this issue of the Letter, I declare war upon certain things/factions/idiots that reoccur in my life.  Perhaps (and it is only a slight chance) my eternal complaining could indeed change the said issue and have it cease to come back.  But in the more likely scenario, it will likely change nothing.  I often try to promote truth, peace and awareness with my column.  Today though, I create havoc.  Ready the cannons.


Also in this issue:

"Hunger Games"  Movie Review
"Scions of Shannara" Review
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The Scions of Shannara


  We've covered the quest for the legendary sword, witnessed the rebirth of the magical tree, and destroyed the book that manipulated the world's very face.  Generations later, we find ourselves once again in the Four Lands, with a very different reality.  The History of Shannara is that...History.  We jump into the world many years later, with the Ohmsford family still connected.  The story now is tied not to one, but four members of the Ohmsford bloodline.  Par and Coll, two brothers directly descended from the line, both have very different roles.  Par still has some use of Jair's wishsong ability, and uses it to paint images about his families history as entertainment, while Coll does the narrating.  The story also focuses on Wren Ohmsford, a cousin of Par and Coll, who's prominent Elven features are a mystery, along with her past.  Lastly is Walker Boh, who remains one of my favorite characters from all the books. He is a dark, embattled enigma who would remain shut away from the world.  While each book had it's own story before, the Heritage of Shannara series is one large story comprised of four books.  (These would be the Scions of Shannara, the Druid of Shannara, The Elf Queen of Shannara and the Talismans of Shannara.)

  The story begins as the members of the family are all summoned to the Hadeshorn by the shade of the long-since gone Allanon.  Each are charged with a certain task, each with great importance, which would forever change the Four Lands.  While the evil of the Ildatch was disposed of, remnants of dark magic have manifested themselves into creatures, and these abominations of magic are known as Shadowen.  Par is charged with recovering the Sword of Shannara, while Wren is to find the missing Elves of the Westland, and Walker Boh is to resurrect the Druid's Keep and restore the Druids.  If you've read the book, you'll see the enormity of what is asked. 

 Altogether, this book leads into a fantastic series that is incredibly indepth, and it is well worth the read.  Brooks shows his continual improvement as a writer and creates so many new things in a very old world, providing both beloved familiarity and young fascination with the unexplored.

Read these books, dammit.

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Hunger Games Review

  I found myself in the Imax theatre on Saturday, trying to decide if I'm going to like this movie.  Seems like lately the world has been infatuated with things that confuse me.  I have not read the books, but I have the plotline explained to me.  If you don't want a very vague spoiler...do not read this review. 

 Apparently, and the details are left out, 24 youth are selected each year for a Fight to the Death competition, leaving the victor with prestige, glory, and food for their own division in society. Credit must be given to the writer as it constantly reminded me of Richard Connell's short story, "The Most Dangerous Game".  I found myself picking out similarities between the two quite often.

 Obviously there are some ethics problems.  The concept can be gruesome enough, but having kids from ages 12-18 doing the fighting seems almost ridiculous.  Yet the movie does it relatively tastefully if we can call it that, and it seems apparent that the moviemaking department took great care in the presentation.  At one point, I thought it was weird that the protagonist was not playing a large enough role in taking some of these other competitors out.  It was at that moment I realized my concept of social structure indeed had changed as I was so willing to accept the drastic new changes suggested in the movie.  Survival is natural and takes over social etiquette with this type of anarchy.

  As with many stories, I imagine the book was much better, and I'm sure many of the readers will agree.  There's no way it couldn't be.  Yet for one such as myself who has not read it, I found the movie very intriguing and contemplative.  Definitely worth the watch, but readers beware.

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  War Be Upon Thee...

  Join me as I take up arms against enemies that are not so traditional!  Fight with me, and I will gladly fight alongside you in battles that you deem worthy.  Also, please feel free to leave thoughts/comments/unmentioned enemies either here or on my facebook page, and I will gladly include them in the next column if I get enough response.   Fight well my friends, and May the Odds be Ever in Your Favor may you be victorious!

I Declare War Upon:

SNOW! - While you have been an enemy only recently, I am fed up with your large quantities and the fact you only come around during winter.  Why don't you come out for Stampede, cool us off on a warm day?  Your annoyance on a cold windy day leads me to assume that you are asking for me to punch every single snowflake in the face.

MCDONALDS - Over the course of my life I have ingested many of your menu items, and now that I'm eating healthier and can say that I do not even crave you is a victory in itself.  However, you must be held accountable for a wrong that you have still to this day not been held accountable for: getting rid of the famous Orange Drink.  WTF were you thinking.  Oh and when you bring that back, bring back the damn pizza.

HAIR - It's bad enough when I got hair that is not located on my head.  Do you really need to leave my cat and find my nice Calvin Klein suit every time I take it off?

CHUCK LORRE - Creator of both Two and a Half Men and Big Bang Theory, among other shows.  Obviously he is a very creative writer so I shall not fault him for that...but I believe writing Big Bang Theory was a personal assault on me.  If you look at his main characters...Leonard, Sheldon, Howard and Rajesh, their flaws are, respectively, thus.   Short, Smartass, Thinks he is funnier than he really is, and can't speak to women.  Thank you so much Mr. Lorre, for pointing out in a TV series everything that I am.

KITTY LITTER - YOU STINK

RISK - While I love the game, I hate how if your attacking you have to use two dice if you have three people.  Yes, I understand the reasoning, no you are still not forgiven.  Also, I do not believe that Greenland should be associated with North America.  It's done nothing for us.

MEN'S HEALTH MAGAZINE - You are a good read with tons of good workout and health advice.  But WHY do you insist on putting fragrance ads with these shirtless guys with mysterious looking backgrounds? No man will ever look at that and think, "Holy crap, if I spray on some Dolce and Gabbana, I'll get ripped so fricken fast!"  Put a fragrance ad that has a good looking girl with the words "If you smell good, you still have to do 200 sit-ups each day to lose that gut, fatty."

SCREAMING LITTLE KIDS - God gave me fists for a reason.

HEADPINS - Not the band.

BILLS - Monthly reminders that life can suck.

HUNGER GAMES - Doesn't have any reference to the true original hunger game, Hungry Hungry Hippos.

PUTTIES FROM POWER RANGERS - Nothing was more ineffective than the bad guys from Power Rangers.  Evil Rita would send in a batch of these clay baddies that she made with her easy bake oven every time before the monster showed up.  Why not just cook a big batch?  Better yet, make them run for congress.

KONY - What the hell is Kony?

REQUESTS - In my lifetime, I have no desire to play Farmville, Castleville, or any other crap people send me on facebook.

AMERICAN IDOL - Give it a rest.

LIKE-LIKES - Stop eating my damn shield...it costs a crapload of rupees to replace it and there is no shop in the middle of the fricken fire temple.

GAME SYSTEMS - Sure the graphics are better and gameplay more intense, but here's something.  Games back then were awesome.  My Xbox 360 just stopped reading my game, so I had to take it to best buy.  They sent it away and it was gone for 2 weeks.  If I didn't have the extended warranty, it would likely have been another large, gross bill.  Now I can play until it craps out again.    Ever have a game not read with a super nintendo?  Just blow on the cartridge and it worked again.  It's magic.

FRODO - No matter how hard I try, I cannot like him.  He's just a big Pansy.

RENTING - Would love to own my OWN place, but at this point in the road I can only afford to rent. If I met a real estate agent, he'd only be able to deal me something with the equivalent of Baltic or Mediterranean from Monopoly.  And then I'd hit luxury tax.


Thanks again for the visit, hope you all have a good week. Remember, if you guys have something to declare war on, let me know and we'll take a look!

Until next week,

Logan

*UPDATE* MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13TH, 2012

                           Iconic Female Vocalist Whitney Houston Passes Away

  The nation was mourning today for the loss of another larger-than-life superstar.  Whitney Houston passes away suddenly and unexpectedly, and the cause at this time is unknown.  Houston did have known incidents with drug use, but it is unclear if that is indeed the case.  She holds the record for the largest streak of number one hits on "Billboard Hot 100" (she had seven number ones in a row) and the only female artist to obtain 2 "Billboard 200" Album awards.  She also did some small movie work as well.


Included in the Letter this week:
-We continue the Shannara Series with the next edition, "The Wishsong of Shannara".
-We celebrate the Birthday of a Great Man (includes a review of "Two and Two-Thirds Men".)
-I lose my mind as I compare two songs that are haunting my life.  Neil Young's classic song, "Old Man" is under the microscope along with a cover version of the same song by Redlight King. 
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 Jet-Setting  (yes it's a Winnipeg Jets pun)

  At this point I'd like to wish my grandfather a very happy 80th birthday.  Grandpa is one of those guys who does and does for others without wanting anything in return. Every time I see him truly happy, he is enjoying the company of friends and family.  So that's what he received for his birthday this year (along with a lot of Rum.)
Typically I'm not a good birthday present, myself, but he was at a loss for words when we all rolled up, so I guess it was worth it! Happy Birthday Grandpa, you deserve it!
*******REMEMBER THIS RANDOM INTERJECTION LATER!!!***************
How it happened,
-This weekend was rather different for me, who's life has gotten a tad redundant and cyclical lately.  Saturday morning was spent boarding a plane along with members of my family.  We were headed to Winnipeg, where unlike Weird Al Yankovic's song, "Albuquerque" the towels are not fluffy whatsoever.  If you do not understand this joke, and you have nine minutes to burn, click www.youtube.com/watch?v=1765UzjAQxI

 The flight is short, and we arrived with no problems, apart from playing the most annoying scrabble game in my life.  First of all, it gives you three to four "best word" scenarios where it will show you the most lucrative place to put your letters.  That's not true scrabble.  I win because I play opponents who are not nearly as word-based as I am.  Gah! Also, they gave me a rack with 7 letters such as E E I I A O U.  What words can you make with this?  Not too friggin' much. Even Ol' Macdonald who had a farm didn't have this many damn vowels.

 We arrived in Winnipeg.  Our mission was to surprise our grandfather, who (hopefully) had no idea we were coming.  A giant surprise party was planned, and we pulled it off successfully. It was truly a gift to see my family again, as most of them do not live near Calgary whatsoever and some of them are pretty frickin' cool.  (Such as my great-aunt, with whom I talked hockey with a for a decent stretch.  While we disagree on Tim Thomas, we bonded over a love of watching Zdeno Chara primitively force his way through everyone. "CHARA SMASH!"

  Part of the surprise was a dinner theatre show that took place in the hotel that we stayed at.  The theatre group "Celebrations" had a unique show that mirrored "Two and a Half Men".  The food was decent and the show was satisfactory, and on the whole, enjoyable.  The servers all had personalities, different outfits and looks, and some of them were rather eccentric.  One awkward moment was created when my buttocks were pinched by a certain man with a cross-dressing persona.  I don't like females with more chest hair than I have.  On the flipside, he sounded like Vinny from Disney's "Atlantis", who is definitely my favorite character. A certain mermaid came and we briefly planned to discuss romantic matters after the show, but I'm still waiting.... Actually she turned out to be the girl playing "Rosie" (who was a mock of Rose) and she turned out to be quite the surprise.  Though she was a lot younger than her fellow cast, her voice and dance technique were highly trained and easy to listen to.  Apparently she is an Edmontonian who does musical work, according to her bio.  Not too bad for a mermaid these days...

  The biggest thrill from the show would have to be the lady that was cast as Berta.  (Or in this show's case, Bertha-real creative huh?)  What an excellent fit. While definitely slimmer than Berta, and with a voice that can both sing beautifully and at the same time create flashbacks of Roseanne Barr, she stole the show for me.  In character the whole time, she thrived in her role.  The marquis sign is here...take a wild guess at which one plays Berta. Just Incredible.  Would gladly see a show with her again. 

 
 A big highlight was they got all the birthday people onstage and got them all to admit their age.  Much to his credit, my grandfather admitted that he was turning 80.  They rewarded him by making the entire birthday entourage dance to a Rendition of Sweet's "Ballroom Blitz"  (Aptly named the Birthday blitz).  Now I will try to keep this mature, but watching 30 or so people do pelvic thrusts to the lyric "She thinks she's the passionate one!" would make you piss yourself laughing. So yeah, fairly successful. 

  We departed the hotel next day, and spent time at the museum before the return trip home.  While most of it was fairly museum-like, I did walk away with some new information that I cannot decide what to do with.  Apparently, if you gaze up at the stars and look at them, (I would recommend trying this at night) you are actually looking at what they looked like thousands of years ago. Because light, even though it is super fast, still takes so long to travel through space, by the time the light reaches us, it's not in real-time.  So remember when that supernova happened a month or two ago, and you could see the fuzzy star as it died? Well it actually happened thousands of years ago.  Even radio signals to Saturn and back take well over an hour to travel.  While it's neat to look so far into the past, it makes me wonder if some of those stars actually do not exist anymore?  

  The trip home was good, albeit delayed.  I would have thoroughly enjoyed it, apart from playing scrabble.  What the hell do I do with E E E I Y O W??!?!!
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 Wish For It, Sing For It

 That's the premise of the magic behind Terry Brooks' next book, for those who have been following the Shannara Reviews.  "The Wishsong of Shannara" is a great story, like all the rest.  What stands out for me in the last story was the creation of fear and danger that Brooks' invoked into the story.  It felt like a race against time.  In this story, it is the characters that bring forward the entire book.  The enemies are very dynamic, not just an assorted bunch of demons with a special few that are more developed.  He builds on the legend he's created, while once again creating new entities to thrill readers. 

 The book has two main characters, which is very uniquely done.  It is the two children of Wil and Eretria (Characters of the Elfstones of Shannara).  Allanon has once again returned, and adventure resumes.  What's interesting though, is that both Ohmsford children play two very different roles.  Both have remnants of the Elfstone magic, which has been turned innate due to the use.  Jair, the younger brother, can sing and create images with his use of the magic known as the Wishsong.  It works differently for his sister Brin, who can physically change the reality of the world she lives in with the Wishsong.

 While some familiar essences still remain to help reassure the reader they will not be disappointed, Brooks' succeeds in creating lovable characters that help pave the way for the next books.  The Grimpond, Garet Jax, Kimber Boh, Cogline, Rone Leah and Stythys, among others, are so versatile as far as their contrasts, and each represent a part of us.  He creates new and exciting fear, whether it's facing an Unstoppable enemy in the Jachyra, or walking through caves where the floor is filled with Procks (stone that will open and close, it preys on people who can't see in the dark caves.) The procks will open and close upon the victim, who has no chance of escape.

 To explain the plot for this story would diminish it, so read this one for yourself.  It's full of literary surprises, and it concludes the history of Shannara.  From here on in, things change.
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Track Attack!   Neil Young vs. Redlight King

 While music is full of different styles and types, and each of us like certain pieces better than others, we can all agree on one thing.  When bands do a cover, it often sucks....bigtime.  It's rare that a cover is even remotely close to as good, and if it is, the original probably sucks.  Even a live version from the same band can often be horrible.

 There are a select few cases where the band is as good live as it is on the album (Pink Floyd, Rammstein, 3 Doors Down, Matchbox 20, etc.)  but music that is good live will never be covered.  If it is covered, then the Court of Logan will deem the group unworthy and their cover shall be burnt in the fire of hell.

  Lately, I have been cursed.  While dealing cards back in the summer, especially during the graveyard shift when the satellite radio can actually be heard, often the same songs come on as the playlist is not very large.  While it's opened my eyes to some new songs that I like, it also played "Old Man" from Redlight King.  At least once a day I would continue to hear it, every time I dealt.

  After it successfully pissed me off, Neil Young's original version was found in the depths of my Ipod.  Suddenly realizing that this was a cover that I heard daily at work, it disgusted me even more.  It had rap-like verse lyrics, and the chorus was a little different.  Still, I proceeded to hear it every day.

  I turned to people for help.  I was driving in the car with my mother and I mentioned my predicament.  THE VERY NEXT SONG on the radio after we discussed it was Neil Young's version of "Old Man".  While she laughed, I entertained the thought of ripping her radio out and throwing it across Glenmore.  What are the chances that the song I am hearing every day is the next song on?  Especially when it's so old...until that point it was probably at least ten years since Mom heard it...

  Whether I've gone officially crazy (which is a likely theory) or because that is how this song works, I've started to actually enjoy the new cover version, probably even more than Neil Young's.  I actually got to listen to the lyrics from Redlight King, and the main theme of the song is that point of realization when you discover you are more like a male figure (for example, your father) than you once thought (often a scary point in life).  The key phrase in Neil Young's song is "Old Man, look at my life, I'm a lot like you were..."  He is fairly soft-voiced and with simple lyrics, it is a sadder song to listen to.  Redlight King's song's rap/light-rock sound gave it more edge, but not enough to fall in love with it.  If you want Neil Young's lyrics, go search.

  I took a look through the lyrics of Redlight King's version, and posted a video of them here.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63Ruo8yzu0w

  The song is still dark, but this is where I started to appreciate how good this new version is.  While Redlight King is definitely newer-age, and some old-fashioned people may be turned off instantly by the sound difference, the lyrics are definitely very real.  They trade in Young's lyrical symbols for hard truths, and they tell the story of tough love well.

  Initially I did not like the change of the actual chorus structure.  When you cover a song, it should showcase the original artist.  The more change, the worse it gets.  However, the band must of had a clear vision of how they wanted it to be, as it definitely has grown on me.  I feel that since the key phrase is "Take a Look at my Life, I'm a Lot Like You"  the new chorus type delivers that with a more emphatic finish.  It is solely designed to make you absorb that piece.  They got rid of the word "were" at the end, which adds to that striking finish.  Songs become good with Power.  There's a reason this never became Neil Young's trademark song.  Redlight King has surprisingly provided a new, unique and creative cover.

Remember the interjection above?  That's where I heard it while I was writing.  Son of a b**ch. 



That's All For The Letter this week!
Thanks again for Reading,
Logan.

*UPDATE* December 5/2011

Game....Not Over

 

  Our feature story tonight comes from Montreal, where two young boys are being credited for saving a young boy's life, simply from playing a video game.  While their names will not be posted to help protect identities, the heartwarming story can be read about in newspapers and online columns alike.  

                                         

 The young boys in the story had often played the same video games.  They became facebook friends and grew closer.  The other boy, who lives across the Atlantic Ocean in the small country of Belgium, began to mutilate his wrists and admitted to have swallowed a toxic substance. All of this supposedly had happened after his girlfriend left him.  The two boys had spoken with one of their mothers and proceeded to inform the Montreal Police.  Authorities in Belgium were notified, and were able to reach the young man in time.  One of the young heroes had written these words on the other's facebook page, "You might hate me now, but maybe one day you will thank me."  

Also included in this issue: 

MELTDOWN!(Life Section)

Trilogy song from Chris De Burgh under review (Little Ditties)

Flames burn out Oilers in battle of Alberta (Sports)

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 Life: Meltdowns and Meaning

  Our feature story will influence the further parts of this column, as the world will need stories like this to spark another Christmas season.  As Christmas looms closer, pull your families close.  Remind friends of their importance to you.  Reflect on the past year and the treasures and lessons it brought you.  

 Give yourself a gift this Christmas.  Take some time to address yourself.  What is it that is blessed in your life at this moment?  What is working for you?  What problems do you currently have that need fixing?  What is missing in your life?  

 This past week has been challenging.  Normally I do not want my personal life intertwined with this column, but this will be one exception.  For everyone that knows me, I am currently working two jobs.  I work every day of the week, sometimes at both jobs in a day.  This has been my life for over a year.  It is not a lifestyle I regret, as it brings me a life I enjoy.  I have my own place, a cat who is both lovely and irritating, and an abundance of things that improve my standard of living. I love and enjoy both of my jobs. While days off are few and far between, I have grown accustomed to this lifestyle. While it may not always be in perfect balance, I am content with my life.

 Or at least, I was.  My list of things to do with Christmas approaching is growing rapidly.  My apartment still lacks a tree, presents are awaiting my purchase in a multitude of stores, and free time to accomplish these feats is definitely not a limited supply. Now, believe me, I am not naive enough to believe I am the only one with a busy month ahead.  Yet this past weekend has brought a new perspective to the oncoming Holiday.

  This weekend was incredibly different.  Having been short-staffed at one place of work, and having a really busy day at the other,I was definitely not in the cheeriest of moods.  I was tired, emotionally drained, behind on everything, and grumpy. Dear world, it would be best to avoid me in this state.  Having finished at one job for the day, my night would be spent at the other job.  I rushed over in a flurry of frustration and snow, and got settled for another busy night.

  Apparently my expression must have shown what I was feeling, because a good friend and co-worker of mine stopped and asked me if everything was alright.  Now, I'm going to say that emotions do not make me uncomfortable.  I believe honesty and truth to be important, and do not view tears from anyone as weakness.  However, I was as surprised as anyone as everything let go in that moment.  I teared up in the middle of work, pressed from everything going on.  I could not even think as to why it all was coming out.  Only one thing was for certain: I was not in good shape, and my body was telling me whether or not I had time to listen.  I couldn't fight the tears at all.  I was having my first official meltdown.  Wonderful.

  Since then I've given myself both time to rest and time to reflect.  This pace has been my life for so long.  I've kept myself so busy for so long that it all seems normal.  So what now?  I have now realized with a disgusting amount of clarity that a change is needed.  My life needs some attention, and no small amount is going to be enough.  It is not enough to get caught up on chores.  It is not enough to get my to-do list done.  It is not enough to be ahead of the game. Work is work. My apartment is only that. All of those things in my life are superficial and lack true purpose. Accomplishing all of that accomplishes nothing if I look at it hard enough. 

What I really need is to integrate purpose into my life.  What I need is a plan. 

  So this week, I will be formulating that said plan.  Writing to you all about it helps to solidify that.  My plan will be how to enrich my own life, and will allow me to bring forth the brilliance I am desiring.  I wish to create and inspire.  So while I am designing and reshaping my life, you are welcome to join as well. 

 Does your life contain passion? Are you caught on a ride that in both incredible and breathtaking?  Can you recognize the blessings in your life with ease?  Or, perhaps, are you also caught in the hectic cycle of December? Do you need to slow down and let things sink in? 

Does it even feel like Christmas?  Not for me so far.  Christmas is a time for Miracles.  So, I'm going to provide a miracle for someone else.  That would create both spirit and that purpose that I'm striving for.

 To be alive is one thing.  To Live is another.  What will it take?

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Sports

Burn-out: Oilers lose to Flames in Battle Of Alberta 

 The Calgary Flames have tremendous success when playing rival Alberta team, the Edmonton Oilers.  Kiprusoff alone has won against Edmonton eleven out of the past twelve times.  They put yet another tally up with this past game, a 5-3 win.  While the struggle of the Flames is no secret, they continue to dominate against our northern Alberta brethren.

Rafael Nafal wins Davis Cup 

Canada beats U.S.A. at the 2011 World Sledge Hockey Championships

 Well, other than that, nothing really shines through as notable for sports, other than Bisping totally destroying Miller, much to my delight.

Here Comes the Hockey ranks for the week:

 

1. Wild (+6) Last week was 7th place, large climb this week. Congrats to the surprise team of the year thus far!

2. Penguins (-1) Crosby is back.  Whoopdy-doo.

3. Blackhawks (-1) No surprise that they are still dominating games.

4. Rangers (+7) Like the Wild, huge climb as well. But they are the Rangers....

5. Bruins - No change.  Bruins still playing an offensively sound game.

6. Wings (-2) Small setback only.  Expect the wings to rise again.

7. Flyers (-1) Still good to see Jagr.  This team is still good despite losing big scores to other teams last year.

8. Panthers (+1) Kudos to Florida.  Somehow beat my Sharks.

9. Canucks (+4) Sigh...I preferred them when they were not top ten.

10.Blues (-2) David Perron will be returning shortly.  Good news for Blues.

11.Stars (+4) Nystrom is really heating up.  He deserves the credit.

12.Kings (+5) Thank you for changing up the mediocre performance as of late.

13.Leafs (-10) Yes it is minus TEN. Lost division lead as well as a couple games.

14.Sharks(-4) Grr.  Not good enough.  Signed, your fan Logan.

15.Coyotes(-3) Vrbata and Whitney tied for points. Any bets as to who wins?

16.Sabres (-2) For such a talented team, these guys are really doing nothing.

17.Oilers (-7) Hall is injured.  I'm sure a buddy of mine likes that.

18.Predators(+2) Rinne pulled twice in one week. Wow.

19.Capitals (-1) Caps...you suck.

20.Senators (+2) Line of Alfie Foligno and Michalek looking pretty sharp.

21.Canadiens(+2) Markov injured....yet again.

22.Avalanche(+3) Insert Sacco Joke Here.

23.Jets (+1) They beat the good teams and lose to crap teams.  What the heck.

24.Devils (-5) Remember when they were Stanley Cup Champs?  They may not.

25.Lightning(-4) You know what...let's just ditto the last comment.

26.Flames (+1) Got owned by Canucks, but don't worry. They beat Edmonton.

27.Islanders(+1) Parenteau to top line. Dipietro Injured...again.  It's a new goalie trend in Long Island.  Beware Montoya, you are next.

28.Hurricanes (-2) These guys come to Calgary soon. It will be on TV, but nobody really cares.

29.Ducks - So Bobby Ryan is off the Trade Block.  In other words, look for him to be traded soon.

30.Blue Jackets - You make me want to cry.

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Judging by the Cover:

Terry Brooks

 I was going to be nice for the first few weeks, but here comes the Terry Brooks tribute.  I highly believe Brooks is the King of the Fantasy World.  For many aspiring authors, such as Christopher Paolini (Eragon Series) and Philip Pullman (The Golden Compass), Terry has done more than just inspired them to write.  He has taught them what it takes to truly create a new world. 

 If you have not read Terry Brooks, drop what you are reading.  I will be covering one book a week until both the "Shannara" and "Word and the Void" series are done. Next week I will debut the Terry Brooks Tribute with his initial release, "The Sword of Shannara".

  If you decide to pick up the story, be forewarned.  The first couple books were written a while back.  The writing eventually becomes capturing and mesmerizing, but the first book lacks the full magic of the series.  "Oh Logan, but I liked the first one."  So did I, so prepare for awesomeness.  DO NOT READ THE PREQUEL FIRST.  THE PREQUEL WAS WRITTEN AFTERWARD, AND SHOULD BE READ AFTER THE THIRD INSTALLMENT, "The Wishsong of Shannara".  

I'm excited.  You should be too.

P.S. DAD! Jean M. Auel came out with another sequel to "Clan of the Cave Bear."

It's called "Land of the Painted Caves"

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Views Under Review

"Tangled"

  Anyone who knows me, knows I hold Disney Movies in high regard.  Lately, it would seem that many of the newer films do not have the same "Disney Magic" as the ones from my childhood.

  Tangled does not share this trait.  Disney's version of the tale of Rapunzel is the first movie in how long that makes me feel like a child again.  Classic musicals mixed with new-age comedy can be found throughout the movie. Characters are both dynamic and interesting.  The thing that grabs my attention the most, however, is the concept.  Rapunzel is fascinated with these glowing lanterns that hang in the sky once a year.  Looking out over the theater, that same fascination could be found in any one of us. Something very innocent and spiritual was at work for this movie.

Creativity- 10/10

Originality-9/10

Entertaining-10/10

Inspiring-8/10

Purpose-8/10

"Tangled" is rated at 90%.  This movie is highly recommended.

"Tower Heist"

 This movie was somewhat disappointing.  While Tea Leoni is otherworldly good-looking, Ben Stiller fails to light the stage with this one.  It has funny moments and interesting scenarios, but Eddie Murphy should have played a much bigger role. 

Creativity 7/10

Originality 7/10

Entertaining 8/10

Inspiring 5/10
Purpose 4/10

"Tower Heist" is rated at 62%.  While not terrible, definitely a renter. 

"Stargate"

 Amazing movie.  Not just because it launches a supremely good TV series, but also because the concept is groundbreaking.  Historic views get challenged, culture gets reviewed and critiqued, and all in the name of entertainment.  The movie itself starts out slow, but mysteriously.  Then you find yourself with the team traversing an unknown planet.  As soon as you start to realize what is going on, another spin occurs, and you find yourself face to face with "Ra", the Egyptian Sun God. Coupled with the series, you do not want to miss this one.

Creativity 10/10
Originality 9/10

Entertaining 10/10

Inspiring 8/10

Purpose 9/10

"Stargate" is rated at 92%.  You need to give the series a chance.

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Track Attack

  Yes the article title changed.  So sue me. I'm almost out of time, so here goes!

  I promised you three songs a week.  This week features three songs, all by Chris De Burgh.  Most famously known for the "Lady in Red", Chris De Burgh is a storyteller musician who is truly captivating.

  Under review is his song trilogy containing three songs, "Revolution" "Light a Fire" and "Liberty".  The three are separate songs, but have intense meaning when played together.

 "Revolution" begins as a song laced with rumors about a rebellion forming.  Quiet and simple, it begins to build until finally at songs' end comes the passion.  As soon as the rally cry begins, the song ends.  Throughout the song, you as the listener, starts to feel the rebellion within you.

 "Light a Fire"  The revolt begins! An intense song begins with the passion and heat that songs just do not have anymore.  Throughout the chorus, Chris De Burgh's immense vocal range and passion form the entire fight. He truly sounds as though he is rallying and leading the men.  

 "Liberty" The fight is over, and the questions begin.  Was it all worth it, or were we swayed by a feeling of something that does not exist?  I believe the most beautiful part is the fact that after 2 verses, this song becomes an instrumental.  This is an instrumental that both builds and allows the song to close.  Closing one's eyes would allow the music to truly let that person's mind to fill in a story. 

Revolution/Light a Fire/Liberty is worth at least one listen.  Even if your not a big fan of storytelling music, the power in this song is formidable.

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I'm out of time. Thank you so much to everyone reading this column. 
For a small, private project that started just a couple weeks ago, we are nearly at 100 views already.  Many thanks!