TV: Lost - Helpful Timeline

I watch Lost religiously, but haven't blogged about it yet.  Part of it is because there are already a billion blogs out there about Lost and a lot of what I have to say is just re-capping what EW's Doc Jensen has taught me or brought to my attention.   

However, recently I'm longing for more information sorting out the big picture of Lost or bringing me some more background to characters or ideas that pop-up.   So I've done some research to help me out and maybe help you, too!   Here is a timeline to help us sort through who has been on the island when. 

Before 1954, we're not sure what's been going on on the island... However, we can assume that "The Hostiles" led by Richard Alpert have been around for a while.  **Perhaps they are the ones who have built the four-toed statue?** They are considered the "native inhabitants" of the Island.   We will refer to these natives as "The Hostiles" until after the Purge, when they become "The Others."

1954: The United States Army arrives on the island to test-detonate a hydrogen bomb. The Hostiles, led by Richard Alpert, kill 18 of their soldiers.  Charles Widmore is one of the Hostiles. 

1950s – 1980s: Charles Widmore becomes the leader of the Hostiles. We know that he ruled for 30 years, and was then exiled due to the scheming of Ben. We also know that he has been searching for the Island for 20 years by 2005.

1970: The Dharma Initiative is created. Benjamin Linus and his Dad join. Daniel Faraday is working for them

1988: Rousseau and company have crashed on the island. They were part of a "Science Expedition" traveling from Tahiti. They picked up a transmission of a voice repeating the numbers and the team decided to change their course and investigate the source of the broadcast.

1992: “The Purge” occurs. The Hostiles launch a toxic gas attack on the Dharma Initiative. It is unknown whether or not Ben masterminded the Purge.  Now the Hostiles have become the Others.

2001: Desmond arrives on the Island.  Also in this year, Juliet arrives on the Island. 

Sometime around 2001, the drug smugglers’ plane crashes onto the island. It contained Yemi (Eko’s brother) and Goldie, as well as many Virgin Mary statues filled with heroin that they were smuggling out of Nigeria.

2003: Henry Gale crashes onto the island from a hot air balloon, attempting to cross the Pacific Ocean.

September 22 2004: Oceanic Flight 815 crashes onto the Island.

December 15, 2004: Naomi parachutes on the Island from the frieghter (the Kahana).

December 21, 2004: Daniel Faraday, Frank, Miles, and Charlotte all land on the Island from the Frieghter crew

December 24 2004: Sayid, Desmond, and Frank arrive on the frieghter

December 26, 2004: The weapon-toting mean guys from the freighter (the mercenaries) arrive on the Island. They are led by Keamy.

December 30, 2004: Desmond, Jack, Kate, Aaron, Sayid, Hurley, Sun and Frank are all on a helicopter headed to the frieghter. It crashes into the ocean. They are saved by Peny's lifeboat, the Searcher.

January 7, 2005: The Oceanic 6 Arrive on the shores of Sumba.

Juanary 13, 2005: The Oceanic 6 are taken to Honolulu and conduct a press conference.

“Early 2008” : Ajira Airways Flight 316 crashes and lands the passengers (including John Locke, Ben, Jack, Hurley, Kate, Frank and newcomers Ilana and Caesar) Where are Sun and Sayid? Not sure, yet.

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TV: Top Chef's Finale Part 2

Hosea Wins!  

What the heck?  I was way off on this one, believing that Hosea did not stand a chance.  However, based on the final challenge, I fully agree with his being chosen.  This is a program that votes on a challenge by challenge basis, therefore all of Stefan's previous wins couldn't count towards him.  

I agree that it was a dumb move for Stefan to end on a dessert, especially a chocolate one.  This is one thing I've learned from watching: chocolate desserts are often not received particularly well.  No one wins with chocolate.  

I feel so bad for Carla.  I love her spirit!  However, this is a girl who does not benefit from team work.  She is a people-pleaser, so when Casey presented suggestions to her, I don't think it was in Carla's nature to reject those ideas and keep focused on her own path.  I really think she could have won the whole thing if she had cooked the beef in a style she is used to and made the tart with her famous crust rather than attempt the souffle.   Frown! 

I'll end on this note: they didn't bleep "Twat?" I'm not saying that word is much worse than "Douchebag" or on the same level as "C*nt," but really?  That's allowed.  Somewhere George Carlin is smiling. 

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TV: American Idol 2/25

Okay, so this was a weird night.   

I think the singing was overall pretty mediocre.  However, maybe once we get our final 12 I'll be more confident in the abilities of this season's contestants. 

I loved how many contemporary songs were chosen.  Regardless of how well they were song, what a relief to hear more modern tunes like "Love Song," "Viva La Vida," and "Put Your Records On."  Unless you are going to completely re-do the arrangement to modernize the song, please stay away from such moldies as "Man in the Mirror" and "What Becomes of the Broken Hearted"... BORING. 

Let me take a moment to discuss Norman Gentle / Nick Mitchell.  I can't believe he sang "...I'm not Going" AGAIN.  That totals 3 times he has performed this number on Idol.  I don't think he should make it through because this is not the stage for comedy, and I LOVED that Ryan said flat-out that he doesn't think he deserves it.  

Now for who I think will go through: Adam Lambert and Allison.  As for the third? I have no idea this week!  I'm going to hope that it's Jesse.  I really like her and I think she has potential to grow into being an even performer.  I hope it's not Megan Corkey.  I absolutely do NOT get that girl.  I seriously thought she was one of the bad/joke auditions when we first saw her.  

On a side note: Paula said it was a mistake to have four judges.  She did not slam Kara when saying this, leading me (and many others) to believe this is all part of Paula working out a graceful exit from the show.  I hope she does leave, because she's never really added anything of value in my book and I would love to allow Kara more time to critique.  She really thinks about the viability of each contestant and I think she elevates the conversation. 

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TV: Big Love 2/22

Big Love is like Six Feet Under in that sometimes I think it is the best show on television, and other times I am just caught-up in its silly kookiness.  This past episode (aired on 2/22 called "Family Road Trip"), was the best episode of the show in it's four season history and the best hour of television I've seen in a long time.  

After the previous week's episode, where the trial concluded and the fourth wife story-line completed, I was very curious about the future of season four.   We were only half-way through the season, but all the plot elements seemed relatively tied-up!   What to do but go on a road trip?!  

The episode could have stood completely on its own as a short film.  I think with just a few tid-bits of background information, anyone could have tuned in and been throughly captivated.  The Sopranos also had the ability to present incredibly cinematic episodes.   Part of why I loved this episode so much was due to how beautiful it was.  The scene where Bill is praying after burying the family time-capsule?  I got goose-bumps all three times I've seen it. 

Another reason I loved this episode was because it simply focused on the family.  I get tired of compound drama and I certainly get bored with Bill's business and financial obstacles (there was a bit of casino talk in this episode, but just a smidgen).   My favorite Big Love episodes concern what is happening in their immediate and complicated family.  With so many wonderful characters living all under one roof (sort of), we really don't need so much periphery business to make for an incredible show.  

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TV: Oscar Telecast

I've heard both positive and negative reviews of this year's Oscars telecast, and frankly, I'm surprised!  For me, it was the best Academy Awards presentation I can remember! 

I really liked how the same presenter duos gave away multiple and related awards.  This really helped speed things along and cut down on the awkward TelePrompTer banter (not that there was even too much of that this year!  The script was greatly improved from past shows).  

My favorite part was how they gave away the top acting awards.  Having previous winners take a moment to give a little speech about each of the nominees was moving.  It created the feeling that it truly would be an honor "just to be nominated," for all of the world would hear one of the great acting talents take a moment to give you credit and congratulations.  Furthermore, it heightened the honor of actually winning: if you won the award then you would get to be a part of that magnificent club.   I hope this remains a part of the Oscar show every year from now on. 

Other favorite bits:

• "Domo Arigato, Mr. Roboto"
• Focusing more on just honoring 2008 movies in clip montages rather than the entire history of film. 
• Ben Stiller as Joaquin Pheonix
• Sean Penn saying "I know how hard I make it to appreciate me"

And just a note on fashion:  liked the muted color scheme and the structural element to many of the gowns.  I was not a fan of the froo-froo cupcake gowns worn by Miley Cyrus and Sarah Jessica Parker.  But the winner for the worst?  Reese Witherspoon!  Combine the disastrous gown with seriously hideous make-up, and you've turned hotness into a hot mess. 

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Film: Oscar Picks

Actor:  Sean Penn in "Milk"

I would love for Mickey Rourke to win for his performance for "The Wrestler."   Not only would it be fun to hear his acceptance speech, but I also love a good come-back story.  That being said, Sean Penn transformed completely to take on his role as Harvey Milk.  It was definitely an Oscar worthy performance and I think it will win partly because of the protest against Proposition 8 in California.  I think a win here would supplement the loss "Milk" will endure in the Best Picture category. 

Supporting Actor: Heath Ledger in "The Dark Night"

Would Heath win in this category had it not been for his unfortunate passing? We'll never know.  However, a post-mortem award is all but a give-in considering his quality of work.   He was amazing as the Joker and I do believe he would have been nominated even if he was still alive today.

Actress: Kate Winslet in "The Reader"

Much like how Heath will win because it is a symbolic gesture towards the actor's entire life's work, Kate will win because she produced two stellar performances this year.  I believe that the nod here will be for both her work in "The Reader" (where she was magnificent), but also for her powerful performance in "Revolutionary Road."  

Supporting Actress: Penelope Cruz in "Vicky Christina Barcelona"

Penelope was really able to shine in this role, as she was able to embrace her Spanish language and culture.  It is when she is acting in Spanish roles when I think she is able to produce her best work.    Furthermore, I think this is sort of a default win.  I don't believe Hensen's role allowed her to truly flex her acting muscles, and I think the Doubt girls will split the votes.  However, if Amy Adams wins: hooray!  She is a tremendous talent and joy to watch.  Tomei did a nice job in "The Wrestler," but I don't see it taking the prize in this competitive category. 

Animated Feature: Wall-E.  

Where was the Best Picture nod for this incredible film?  The win here will be a consolation prize. 

Art Direction: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

The best and most elaborate set design has to go to this epic film spanning time and the globe. 

Cinematography: Slumdog Millionaire

Costume Design: The Duchess

Does a period piece ever lose in this category?  Not to mention the three-foot tall wigs. 

Directing: Slumdog Millionaire

Documentary Feature: Man on Wire

This was an amazing film.   If you haven't seen it yet, this documentary does an incredible job with recreated scenes and the entire movie has the feeling of a delightful caper.   The footage of the actual act is paralyzing in its frightfulness and powerfulness.  And of course, Phillipe Petite is a joyous performer and story-teller.   I have not seen any of the other films in this category.   

Documentary Short: The Witness - From the Balcony of Room 306

I haven't seen any of these films, but I'll go with the Martin Luther King Jr. pick considering our currently celebratory climate in regards to racial progress. 

Film Editing: Slumdog Millionaire

With the fast-paced flash-backs, I think this is another deserved win for an amazing film. 

Foreign Language Film: The Class

I haven't seen any of these films, but I hear this movie documenting the students of varied faiths and ethnicities in a french classroom is actually one of the favorites of the entire year for many critics. 

Makeup: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Seems like a no-brainer! Does the CGI utilized to aid the aging apply to this category?

Original Score: Slumdog Millionaire

Original Song: Jai Ho

Could the Slumdog songs split the vote?  Seems possible, but Peter Gabriel also threw a tantrum recently regarding the montage format for the Oscar performances making it even less likely that the Academy will pick his song for the win.  Plus, who can resist a Bollywood dance number?

Best Picture: Slumdog Millionaire

Considered the underdog just months ago, now the front-runner, this film is amazing!  Powerful, depressing, hopeful, all in the same movie.  I love this picture! 

Short Film, Animated: Presto

It was presented before Wall-E, so we know a lot of people got to see this funny magician's assistant piece. 

Short Film, Live Action: Spielzeugland (Toyland)

A good version of "The Boy in the Striped Pajamas."  

Sound Editing and Sound Mixing: The Dark Knight

Perhaps I should have picked The Dark Knight for one and Wall-E for the other, to ensure I got 1 point.  My theory is that both of these awards will go to the same movie, and that the Academy usually gives the nod to an action picture.  I did no research to back-up either of those claims. 

Visual Effects: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Adapted Screenplay: Slumdog Millionaire

I didn't read the book this film was based on, however, I think the screenplay was brilliant.  Also, as I've already mentioned, I did find the dialogue in The Reader disappointing when compared to the masterpiece book. 

Original Screenplay: Milk

My friend made a lot of better points than I did for why Milk could win in this category.  For one, it presents a decent consolation prize (as well as Best Actor?) to the movie that couldn't beat Slumdog for Best Picture.  For another, there were many screenplays floating around about the life of Harvey Milk that never made it to production.  This was the screenplay that was good enough to honor the man's life.   Lastly, I think that any bio-pic screenplay is especially challenging and should be honored when done-well.  Although history has created the plot-points, the writer must shrink the life to a reasonable time-length while still being true to the events that transpired and the characters involved.  

We'll see how I do! 

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Book v. Movie: Revolutionary Road

Without a doubt, we have a dark subject matter here.  A couple struggles to hold it together as they deal with the monotony of suburbia in the '50s and the stifling of the creative spirit.   They shout and threaten.  They denounce affection and cheat.  This is not a pleasant experience! 

The book was a triumph.  Although your stomach twists into knots while agonizing through the battles between the Wheelers, the writing is incredible.   Yates gives a voice to every character, switching up the narrative styles frequently to shed light on each of their natures.  

The movie falls short.  I felt like I was being thrown into fast-forward, as so much was being told too fast and so much was being left aside to make room for progress.  Kathy Bate's character was greatly cheapened in comparison to how she was presented in the novel.  Frank Wheeler (played by Leonardo DiCaprio) was not given the time to show his true insecurities.  April Wheeler's character was denied further understanding by being given some shoddy filler-dialogue created in a great departure from the book.  Why not use that time to have her reflect on her parents, who played a major role in the development of her essence (as Yates so powerfully illustrated)?   

Some people say that this film should have received more attention by the Academy.  Although I think the performances were well-done, the story didn't settle well.   If it was able to flesh out the stories of all the players a little more, perhaps it wouldn't have just felt like a gut-twisting downer, but more like a moving character piece. 

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