tjprins Reviews

The Colbert Report (2005–2014)

Stephen Colbert is a Knock-Out

[10/10 · 13 September 2010]

In 2005 Comedy Central had raked in some Emmys through their popular satirical news program: The Daily Show. Comedy Central began looking to expand the franchise, and they decided to give Stephen Colbert (a senior correspondent on the Daily Show) his own late night news program titled "The Colbert Report", and the result is a Knock-Out.

I first tuned into the report in late 2008 when a friend of mine was watching it on TV, and I have to say the show really packed a punch.

From its charming writers to the sketchy comedic Colbert himself, the show will keep you glued to the TV. The writers creativity mix with Stephens charm and magnetic personality so well I felt as if I was trying a martini for the first time. Whether Colbert is repelling down from a rope onto the set, or filling his seats with Iraq war vets and giving them free beer while Joe Biden is handing out hot dogs, the Colbert Report is definitely one show that will put a smile on your face as you lay down to sleep.

One thing I do like about the Colbert Report (as well as the Daily Show) is that it is available online for free at their website. Even current episodes are posted as soon as they air on TV, so you don't even need comedy central to watch it. It is also available on XboX Live as well as iTunes.

So whether your looking for a laugh, some serious politics, or just a sexy hot dog man dancing in front of Joe Biden, this show is definitely for you!

Paranormal Activity (2007)

1 out of 10 isn't low enough

[1/10 · 24 October 2009]

I got a DVD copy of Paranormal Activity today (With the original ending) and decided to sit down with my subway sandwich and a friend and watch the film. I have to say, it was a good attempt at a scary film, but non-the-less, needs some work.

The story focuses on Micah and Katie, a couple who have moved into a home together and discover that Katie is being followed by a demonic entity. First off and foremost, I will give credit to both Micah and Katie (Yes their real names are the same as their characters) for an outstanding performance. Not exactly Marlon Brando, but a lot better then Christian bale and most actors out there. As for the crew working behind the camera, this movie needs some work. I went into this film expecting to be frightened to the edge of my seat, but instead just kinda sat there going "Wow what is the director thinking??" and "Hey I can see the stop motion animation there!". Honestly, were talking about the film that scared Steven Spielberg so much he left the theater. Really? Maybe Spielberg should stick to blues clues.

The movie does have its strengths though, for example throughout the whole film I felt as if I was watching a home movie or some old footage filmed from a family trip (Which I'm hoping was intentional by the filmmakers, otherwise I retract this statement). Also the actors/actresses did a good job improvising the entire script (Yes, the whole thing was improvised). Also in the beginning of the film, a psychic tells the couple that the demon is fueled somewhat by anger and frustration, and the more the couple argue, the more violent the demon became (Sort of like Katie's inner demon), which I thought was a good use of symmetry.

Still, the movie got too much hype. During the first "Night scene" my heart was racing because I was expecting something to have me quaking in my boots, but after it failed to scare me, the rest of the movie I just kind of sat there going "Oh hey look the sheets moved.... aahhhh?"

I appreciate the film for trying to scare people Alfred Hitchcock style, as opposed to just gore fests (Like most mediocre horror films today such as Saw), but this movie failed to deliver. When I order pizza for delivery and its not here in 30 minutes, its free. Your 30 minutes is up Paranormal Activity, wheres my money back?

Oh and before I forget, If you want a scary movie that REALLY gets your blood pumping, but uses suspense as opposed to mutilated bodies, try renting Psycho, trust me its worth it.

The Hangover (2009)

What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas

[10/10 · 10 June 2009]

I went to see this title today, and boy I'm glad I did.

This movie is definitely a guy flick. During this film you will turn to your buddies and say "Yeah I could see this being us!" This movie will let you leave the theater with a smile on your face for ten dollars well spent. With its ups and downs, to its "What the..." moments, and its constant gags that will have you laughing from the bottom of your gut, this movie is a must see for the comedy thirsty movie goer in need of an oasis.

If your in need of a good comedy film, I'd recommend this to anyone with a sense of humor. The film does a brilliant job of a "Memento" style chronology. From beginning to end, this film will keep you begging for more.

Grey's Anatomy (2005– )

Depends on your taste

[7/10 · 1 May 2009]

Not the best show out there, but there are thousands of viewers out there whom I'm sure disagree.

In my personal opinion I like "House M.D." better. In House, they don't know whats wrong with all the patients. In "Grey's Anatomy" they almost always know exactly what to do and how to fix it. But again, it depends on your taste. "Grey's Anatomy" puts a unique drama twist on the personal and professional lives of five surgical interns. My sister had me watch a few episodes and I thought "Man this show is pretty good".

If your looking for a show with puzzles in which you must piece together along with the cast, I'd recommend "House M.D.". If your looking for a drama that is more focused on the personal life of the characters, I'd say this title is for you, because "Grey's Anatomy" is sure to deliver.