Taylor Lautner

OK Twilight Fans -- a message was finally released this week regarding the casting of Jacob Black for the sequel New Moon. Fans of the books already know that young Jacob undergoes quite a transformation in New Moon (no spoilers, I promise), and it had been debated that 16-yr-old Taylor Lautner might not be physically up to the task. Lautner portrayed Black in Twilight.

Anyway, a message from New Moon's director Chris Weitz follows:

Dear Twilight Fans,

I'm very happy to announce that Taylor Lautner will be playing Jacob Black in NEW MOON, and that he's doing so with the enthusiastic support of Summit Entertainment, the producers, and Stephenie Meyer.

The characters in Stephenie's books go through extraordinary changes of circumstance and also appearance; so it is not surprising that there has been speculation about whether the same actor would portray a character who changes in so many surprising ways throughout the series. But it was my first instinct that Taylor was, is, and should be Jacob, and that the books would be best served by the actor who is emotionally right for the part.

I think that fans of TWILIGHT, the book and the movie, will be surprised by the Jacob Black that Taylor will bring to the screen in NEW MOON; and I'm looking forward to working with him and the rest of the cast in realizing the film.

Very Best, Chris Weitz


I'm glad to see this. Though I'm definitely Team Edward, I was impressed with Tay's performance as Jacob and look forward to seeing him in New Moon. The film already has a firm released date of November 20, with filming set to begin sometime in March.

Of course, Twilight's leads Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart are already firmly locked to reprise their roles in the next two sequels! Now, you know this just gives me another chance to post a hot photo of Pattinson! Enjoy!

OK, this isn't TV related, but it's so over the top I had to share.

Still searching for that elusive Christmas gift for the person who has everything? You absolutely can't go wrong with this one ...

Someone over at Mattel has clearly lost their mind and is making money off it. A Special Barbie Collector model has been tailored after Tippi Hendren's role in the 1963 Alfred Hitchcock thriller The Birds. Take a gander at this ...



What makes me think this would be the perfect gift for Tim Burton this season?

For $40 a pop, grown-up doll collectors can have their favorite blonde, packaged in a box and viciously pecked by birds. Hmmmm, I think I know what I'm getting the Elfman for Xmas this year ...

And he'll love it!

"The master of suspense, gave us a tale of terror not soon forgotten in his film 'The Birds'," according to Mattel's pitch.

"Dressed in a re-creation of the stylish green skirt-suit worn by the film's ill-fated heroine in an iconic scene, Alfred Hitchcock's 'The Birds' Barbie Doll celebrates the 45th anniversary of the acclaimed film."

Makers of the doll warn parents that this Barbie is "rated PG-13" (Wow a doll with an MPAA rating!) and might not be suited for every little girl in New York.

Look out Todd McFarlane, Mattel's cutting into your profits!

And Elfman, if you're looking for something for your fave blogger, I'll take a Twilight Edward Cullen action figure!



Merry Christmas Chochum!

OK, I'm a little late in posting this, but hey, it's the weekend, and I'm currently up to my ears in Xmas decorations, trying to finish up before tonight's Survivor finale!

Summit Entertainment made it official on Friday that Chris Weitz is indeed directing Twilight's anticipated sequel New Moon (which means he'll be on his way to Vancouver at this very moment to begin preproduction). In an effort to calm fans, the following was emailed to those registered at www.TwilightTheMovie.com

Subject: Message from Chris Weitz

Dear fans of Twilight, New Moon, Bella, Edward and Jacob,

In the past few days I have been involved in a whirlwind romance with Stephenie Meyers' extraordinary books.

And I am very grateful to have received her permission to protect New Moon in its translation from the page to the screen.

For fans of the books and of the film of Twilight, this may come as an unexpected twist. So I want to write briefly to try to put you at ease, and to give you reason to hope for and expect the best.

For the last decade of my career as a director, I have chosen to make adaptations of complex and involved works of literature. This has always begun with the love of a book and its characters, story, and theme; and it has always involved a respect of and responsiveness to the feelings of other people who loved those books.

When I saw the film of Twilight, I was alternately entranced and left hungry for more. I was also struck by the extraordinary passion for the characters, story and theme that was evident in the people sitting in the seats around me. My job is to live up to that devotion.

Like many of you, I am a fan of Catherine Hardwicke's work. I can't really say much about why she is not doing New Moon because I wasn't involved in those decisions. But I can say that I will devote myself to making the very best and most faithful version of New Moon that can be brought to the screen. To those who doubt that as a male director I can capture Bella's experience, I can only say that emotion is universal and that my work has often involved working with some of the most talented actresses in the world.

For the rest, the proof will have to be in the pudding. But I promise to remain responsive to your hopes and fears.

I thank you for this opportunity and for your faith.

Very best, Chris Weitz



OK, sounds sincere, let's give him a chance. While I wasn't a fan of The Golden Compass, I absolutely loved About A Boy ...

I'm seeing red over Twilight's sequel -- New Moon.

As if I wasn’t worried enough about New Moon, Twilight’s sequel, already, EW.com is reporting that Summit Entertainment is upping the budget to $50 million – really, a whole $50 million?
Twilight’s reported budget was only $37 million and it showed. One of the biggest complaints from fans was regarding the cheap special effects.
So, after taking in $70 million in its opening weekend, and nearly $140 million in its first three weeks (more than three times its budget), Summit has seen fit to greenlight the second film for a whole $13 million more. WOW!
This is disturbing to all fans, I’m sure, since we already know what happens in the second movie (Twilight’s a VERY successful book series, afterall). This is the flick that introduces the werewolves (natural enemy of the vampire) to the story. And, as described, the humans “phase” into the werewolves, changing almost instantly. That’s going to look pretty crappy if they have to go with stop-motion or some other cheap effect.
The EW report also discloses that Summit has set a tentative release date for New Moon of Nov. 20, 2009, with word that the director replacing Catherine Hardwicke needs to be in "Vancouver by Dec. 15 to begin 12 weeks of preproduction before a mid-March start date." Date check: Monday is Dec. 15! and a director hasn't been confirmed yet, although reports state that Golden Compass director Chris Weitz has been offered the job.
It would have been a better bet to keep Hardwicke, considering she already is familiar with the storyline and has experience in what worked and didn't in the first movie. However, it might not have been Summit's decision afterall, a source close to Hardwicke disclosed to EW, "She'd love to do the sequel if she could do it better than Twilight. It became clear that Summit didn't have those same priorties." Obviously.
What director in their right mind would take the helm under these circumstances? Weitz certainly doesn't need back-to-back fantasy flops. Considering that anticipation is always greater for a sequel than the original, if New Moon stinks, word will spread quickly and fans won't come back.
Also in question is New Moon's script, as written by Melissa Rosenberg. She scripted Twilight under the gun of the looming writers' strike earlier this year, which might account for some of its short-comings. I was hoping with more time, she could present a better one for New Moon, but certainly not under these rushed circumstances. Rosenberg is also reported to be writing the script for the third movie (Eclipse), which might be made back-to-back with New Moon. How's that for a rush-job?

Jacob Black
SPOILER ALERT: skip past next photo to avoid.



There also may be plans for Summit to replace Taylor Lautner as Jacob Black. I originally thought this might be a good idea when I first heard he was cast in Twilight. Afterall, in New Moon, Black hits puberty and REALLY grows, if you know what I mean (I'm talking werewolf here). The book makes it clear that Jacob's much taller and much more muscular. But I really did enjoy Lautner in Twilight, he made a bigger impression on me than I would have thought. And New Moon would really afford him an opportunity to shine. (Calm down y'all, I'm still totally Team Edward!)





Twilight's Edward & Bella


Back to the budget -- If the stars are really getting paid the $12 million that's been alluded to on the Internet, that leaves only $26 million for special effects, a reported location shoot in Italy, salaries for the rest of the cast, crew, director, etc. WTH? Is Summit purposely sabatoging its sure-thing franchise?

OK, two nights of Holiday parties in a row didn’t leave me much time to watch TV this week. I was planning on watching The Dark Knight last night (came out on DVD yesterday, for those of you who didn’t know), but got home a little too late.
I can, however, highly recommend it. I saw it in the theater and, judging it’s enormous box office take, most of you probably did too.

And speaking of The Dark Knight, the late Heath Ledger received a posthumous award over the weekend from his homeland’s Australian Film Institute for his role as The Joker. Ledger’s family was on hand to accept and paid a teary tribute to their loved one. “It’s been without a dbout the most difficult year, losing such a loved family member,” said sister Kate Ledger.
Ledger’s performance in the Batman blockbuster is regarded as having a solid chance for a posthumous Academy Award for best supporting actor.


For those of you wanting to catch up, Lost: Season 4 (last season) hit the shelves on DVD yesterday.


On TV Tonight: Don’t forget, it’s another fast-paced episode of Top Chef on Bravo at 10 p.m. Tonight the cheftestants are being pimped out to cook for judge Gail Simmon’s Bridal Shower. Should be interesting …

On Fox at 8 p.m. is the second episode of Secret Millionaire. I missed the first episode, but have since caught up and believe me, watch it with a stack of tissues. If you don’t produce tears watching this show, you’d better get to your cardiologist because your heart’s obviously turned to stone.
Along the same path as ABC’s Extreme Makeover, Secret Millionaire features a different millionaire each week, spending a week living in poverty with regular folks that have fallen on hard times – i.e. Hurricane Katrina survivors. After having their life-changing moment, the millionaires choose some lucky person at the end to award $100,000 out of their own pockets to help better their situation. Sounds cheesy, but it’s truly tear-jerking. You can watch last week’s episode and get more info here http://www.fox.com/programming/shows/new/secret_millionaire.htm

On Bravo last night, on the Real Housewives of Orange County (Bravo’s original Real Housewives show), Lauri decided to stop participating in the hit show. Lauri’s son, who has been battling drug addiction for the past two seasons, was sentence to 8 months in prison and Lauri decided to take time to concentrate on her family. Good luck Lauri.
Don’t fret, Bravo has already replaced her and a new “housewife” will make her debut next week.

Lauri's on far right

In other news: The stage has been set at ABC for Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve and this year’s show will feature co-host Ryan Seacrest with performances by Taylor Swift, Lionel Richie, Natasha Bedingfield, Fall Out Boy, Jesse McCartney, Ne-Yo, Pussycat Dolls, Solange, Robin Thicke, and … hold on to yourselves …. THE JONAS BROTHERS!!!! (yeah, that was meant to be sarcastic)


Oprah’s back up to 200 pounds …


And Jay Leno, who will say good-bye to The Tonight Show this spring, will be back before you know it … at 10 p.m. with The Jay Leno Show – WTH? Poor luck Conan … he’s supposed to be taking the helm of Johnny Carson’s late night extravaganza after Leno exits. With Jay on at 10 p.m., doing basically the same format, why bother to stay up after the news to see Conan?
Of course, this is only good news for David Letterman … his show on CBS in the same 11:35 p.m. time slot will undoubtedly rocket to No. 1.
Anyway, Jay’s new show will air five nights a week, just like his old one. Looks like Law & Order’s numerous serials may be taking the hit.


And in movie news: Summit Entertainment has parted ways with Twilight director Catherine Hardwicke, thereby leaving the spot wide open to direct the already slated sequel New Moon.
(Yeah, just another excuse for me to blog about Twilight, and include a sweet photo or two.)

Anyway, no one’s saying who dumped who, but Hardwicke said, “I am sorry that due to timing I will not have the opportunity to direct ‘New Moon’.”
But those supposedly in the know seem to think that due to larger budget and increased special effects needed for the flick – this one has the werewolves, afterall, Summit might have wanted to get someone with more visual effects experience. And, if you’ve seen Twilight, you have to admit, the visual effects weren’t very good. Except for the glittering Edward in the meadow, which Summit actually ponied up the money to hire George Lucas’ special effects wizards at Industrial Light & Magic to handle.
No offense to Hardwicke, I personally think she did the best she could with the budget that was afforded her.
As of last night, director Chris Weitz had been rumored to be offered the coveted job. Weitz directed last year’s holiday flop The Golden Compass. Yeah, I saw it on DVD and wasn’t impressed by the film … however, the special effects, which featured a giant polar bear fight, were top notch.
I’m a little more worried that Summit has chosen Twilight screenwriter Melissa Rosenberg to write both New Moon and Eclipse. Personally, while the movie adaptation of Twilight did follow the book (there are always changes when adapting page-to-screen), I really don’t think it hit the same emotional mark. I guess we’ll just have to wait and see …

The good news is that both stars Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart are both signed to reprise their roles as vampire Edward Cullen and his human paramore Bella Swan.

Elfman Alert! Due to his vast TV knowledge and rather large fanbase, I’ve asked the Elfman to do a guest blog entry on his Top 5 TV shows of 2008, and he has graciously accepted. I’ll be offering that before the end of the year, along with my own picks. What have been your faves? or even your Worsts? Let me know along with a brief reason why, and you might see it here …

Also, the Elfman will be offering up his pick for Worst Christmas Movie ever – and believe me, it’s a real stinker – Chochem has spoken …

Blogging about Barbara Walters’ Most Fascinating People of 2008 special got me thinking … so here’s my 10 Most Fascinating People of 2009. Heads up – they’re all entertainment-related, because that’s where my main interests lie. So no politicians, sports figures, big thinkers, heck, some of them aren’t even real people – just great characters. Anyway, here’s who fascinated me this year!

10. The Elfman – If you’re a regular reader of this blog, you’ve probably already figured out that I actually know the enigma known as The Elfman. And though I’ll NEVER reveal his secret identity, he never ceases to fascinate me. (I just realized both those sentences kinda read like Austin Powers’ "Allow myself to introduce myself." Pardon me.)
Whether it’s his passion for Blue Oyster Cult and really, really bad cinema, his love of reality TV and Sally Field, or his witty comments on this blog, I’ll always consider myself lucky to know him. Thanks Elfman!

Bruce Wayne

Tony Stark
9. A tie between The Dark Night/Bruce Wayne and Ironman/Tony Stark. Though I’ve only just met Tony this year, I’ve known Bruce most of my life. What’s not to love about these guys – I mean, they’re both handsome, very intelligent, rich, powerful, mysterious and in their spare time fight crime. And they’re both dark and brooding too. It’d be the perfect relationship for me – go ahead guys, save the world, I’ll just stay here at the mansion spending your money! Yeah baby!


8. James Lipton. The host of Bravo’s Inside the Actors Studio makes this list for his fascinating autobiography "Inside, Inside," where he divulges that early on in his life, while living as a young man in Paris he was a meck – which is French slang loosely translated as pimp. Yeah, you read that right – pimp! For one prostitute in particular, who was a good friend, he would help set her up on "dates." Say it ain’t so James!
He also reveals that in addition to schooling and interviewing talent, he can pirouette, fly airplanes, compose Broadway musicals, star in Guiding Light, and produce Bob Hope TV specials. Plus he’s run away with gypsies in Greece -- a truly fascinating person indeed!


7. Dan Radcliffe. The star of Harry Potter makes my list not because of his body-baring role on Broadway in Equus, but because of the intriguing interview he gave Details magazine this past fall. In it, the 19-year-old revealed losing his virginity at 16 to his then 23-year-old girlfriend!! Yeah, that completely blew my mind … think about that the next time you watch Harry Potter & the Goblet of Fire!


6. Jeff Lewis. The obsessively compulsive star of Bravo’s Flipping Out, Lewis fascinates me to no end. I could and have literally watched him for hours, usually trying to figure out those surgically enhanced lips. Well, I don’t know for sure, but they have to be right?
Jeff’s rants and hissy fits are what makes reality TV great, whether he’s scolding his Nicaraguan maid Zoila, firing then rehiring his staff or explaining exactly how hot his Starbuck’s coffee must be (120 degrees, BTW). Can’t wait for next season.


5. Stephenie Meyer. The 36-year-old Mormon mother of two who had a dream one night about a boy and girl in a meadow discussing how much he wanted to kill her, and decided to write it down. Fortunately for us, as her dream became the hugely successful vampire saga abou love and angst Twilight. Though I only discovered the books last August, they quickly consumed most of my time. Not since Harry Potter have I devoured books so fast, and I've turned many friends and coworkers on to the series. They all have the same reaction -- "I just couldn't put it down." "I told you," I reply.
Thanks Stephenie – now get back to writing the next one, Midnight Sun!


4. Capt. Jack Harkness. Who, you say? Early this year I was lucky enough to discover what was the No. 1 show on BBC America, a sci-fi thriller called Torchwood. Capt. Harkness, as played by the extremely handsome and talented John Barrowman, is the leader of this secret agency that polices aliens that come thru the rift in time in Cardiff, England. I’d liken it to Buffy the Vampire Slayer meets the X-Files. Did I mention that Torchwood’s a spin-off of another hugely successful British sci-fi series – Dr. Who?
Dr. Who just narrowly missed making this list. Both series come with the appropriate amount of cheesiness, but Torchwood’s darker and more adult-oriented. If sci-fi’s your thing, check it out.


3. The cast of LOST. This is a no-brainer right? I mean, who on television has been more intriguing this year? I can’t remember another show that had me thinking so much … and not just me, I’ve had huge, in depth discussions with complete strangers over LOST theories. What other show can you think of that would pull out all the stops and make an entire island disappear. Who’s Jacob? How did Locke die? Did everyone on the ship really die? Why is Claire with Christian in that cabin -- is she dead? And what’s the deal with Richard? What do the polar bears have to do with anything? Will Ben kill Penelope? Will the Oceanic 6 go back? And where the hell’s the island? Hopefully, we’ll all get some answers on Jan. 21 when it returns to ABC.


2. Robert Pattinson. C’mon, you all had to know he’d make my list. Not since Leonardo DiCaprio went down with the Titanic have I been so captivated by a handsome, young actor. And boy is he young … only 22. Being cast as the lead in the movie adaptation of Twilight literally turned him into a overnight star. A brief mall tour of Hot Topic stores turned 14-year-old girls ravenous, showing up by the thousands. And most of their mothers were there too.
But it's not just about Twilight, he's quite the musician as well, playing piano and guitar; possesses smooth vocals; writes songs and scripts, and, of course, there's that irresistable British accent. It's no wonder most of us have no problem with his hobo-style of dress and messy, unwashed hair. I think we'd even be forgiving if we found out he really was a vampire ...
Most of the time, I'm a closet fan (those around me aren't aware of my problem), and luckily I’ve stumbled upon a wonderful support group online of other similarly-aged women who’ve become just as taken with the British wonder. Fortunately for him, we’re all content to keep it amongst ourselves and not turn stalker. It’s all led to a fun cyber-friendship with these great ladies from around the world! Thanks Rob.

So, if I think he’s so wonderful, why isn’t he No. 1 you might ask? Well, that space is reserved for the only "person" I found even more fascinating than Pattinson this year …

1. Edward Cullen. Of course, Pattinson is to Edward what Dan Radcliffe is to Harry Potter. Edward Cullen arrives on page 22 of Twilight and that's exactly when you'll forget about whatever else you were going to do that day ... that week ... that month, or however long it takes you to finish all four books!

What girl could resist a guy whose old-school gentleman, graceful, wealthy, hangs on every word she says, is totally devoted to her forever (and I do mean forever) and is described quite often as being unbearably beautiful? Yes, there's always a down-side and his is that he happens to be a 108-year-old vampire trapped in a 17-year-old's body. Or is it?
Yes, it seems that vampires and their lifestyle prove to be incredibly sexy. You know, the ultimate bad-boy, who just might slip and kill you in the heat of passion. One who could offer you eternal life as well. There is an upside to being immortal. Afterall, he's super-strong, incredibly fast, very intelligent (has had a LOT of time to study), doesn't need to eat, doesn't sleep, won't ever age, doesn't even need to use the bathroom, and to top it off, he glitters in the sunlight!
Did I mention the unbearably beautiful part? Sorry, I'm just spacing out over here ... hmmmm
To put it bluntly -- Fascinating!

Well, this post is getting waaaay too long, so wrapping-up here's a few who almost made my Top 10:
The aforementioned Dr. Who (David Tennant). Yes, I was a fan of the original, but I really enjoy the updated version. I'd love to climb in the Tardis and travel the universe with the handsome Doctor!
Big Bang Theory's Sheldon. Every now and then, I gotta get my Geek on and OCD Sheldon is my fix!
Heath Ledger's Joker. Another great bad boy, he's the fan favorite villain to Batman, and the late Ledger brought him justice. Never thought anyone would outdo Jack Nicholson in Tim Burton's Batman, but he managed to.
The girls of Sex & the City. Loved the show, loved the movie. Samantha, Carrie, Miranda and Charlotte will always be dear friends of mine.
The Cloverfield Monster. Fascinating because after all this time (the flick came out in January) I still haven't been able to find a decent picture of it! Enough already, WTH is it???

What are your thoughts? Hit the comments and let me know your most fascinating person of 2008. Gotta go, Survivor's coming on ...

Sorry everybody, no time for frills today! Wanted to blog more about last week's Top Chef, but there just wasn't time. No time for photos or proofreading either, so please forgive.

The fur really flew last night on Bravo during the Real Housewives of Atlanta Reunion. And I loved it!
Let’s see, where to begin … the host stared off with a bang, stating that they received an overwhelming number of emails from viewers who don’t believe that blonde babe Kim isn’t really 29. She says she’s 30 now.
Next it was revealed that CNN’s Anderson Cooper loves loudmouth NeNe.
Who responded with much love for Anderson. Viewers also emailed over NeNe’s “saggy boobs,” saying she should dress more appropriately. And NeNe confirmed that she hasn’t been in touch with Curtis (who she believed was her father), since the paternity test resolved that he wasn’t.
After being asked the identity of Big Poppa, Kim revealed that he’s legally married and seeking a divorce. Which really set NeNe off! Calling Kim a liar and saying, “close your legs to married men!”
Kim replied with “grow up and you’d better back your ass up!”
Lots of bleeped cursing followed with NeNe boasting Kim’s a “trashy hooker” and wears a wig. Lisa climbed onto NeNe’s lap to keep her from getting up.
The host, looking nervous, took the show into commercial. After the break, he asked Kim if she was wearing a wig. To which she replied, that 3 years ago she found out that she got sick and found out she had cancer. NeNe apologized, saying she didn’t know about the cancer. About a minute later, Kim said she didn’t have cancer, that it was something else she didn’t want to talk about it. (It still wasn’t confirmed she wears a wig, but I can totally see it now.)
Following brief summaries of Sheree, DeShawn and Lisa, the show got back to the battle between Kim and NeNe, with the host bringing up NeNe’s song about Kim. I don’t remember what Kim said, but Lisa totally flew off the handle, calling Kim a “liar who needs medication.”
Then when Kim responded, Lisa said, “You don’t want to start with me, I’ll flip you over that couch!”
The show closed on an up note with the addition of NeNe’s gay boyfriend Dwight, who brought some all too needed comic relief. The show will repeat numerous times over the weekend. Check it out! Or you can watch it here http://www.bravotv.com/ Real_Housewives_Of_Atlanta/season/1/index.php

The Foo Fighters stop by Top Chef tonight on Bravo at 10.
Last week’s episode concluded with Fabio winning with his spericle olives, and Jill going home from making a bad quiche from Ostrich eggs. Sorry, there wasn’t time to post more ..

And to all my Twilight fans out there, don’t miss The Tonight Show with Jay Leno tonight. Robert Pattinson, aka Edward Cullen, stops by to spend some time on the couch.
Summit Entertainment has announced the Twilight's sequel, New Moon, will begin filming in March (hopefully with a November release date).

Many apologies to everyone who reads this blog for keeping you hanging for a few days. Things have been very busy around here, and with this being a Holiday week, things are even busier, so I may have to post at night this week.

Twilight's Edward & Bella
Anyway, this is just a little heads up to what’s been goin on lately. Of course, I saw Twilight, and I will give my opinion in a separate post so as not to bore those who aren’t interested.
I will, however, take this moment to say --- $70.6 million!!! Take that James Bond!! That’s Twilight’s estimated weekend gross so far. And just to put that in perspective …
Going into the weekend, Twilight was expected to take in a big $50 million.
Of the Top 30 openers of all time, of which Twilight is now one, only seven cost less than $100 million to produce. And only one, The Passion of the Christ, cost less than the $35 million Twilight.
According to Box Office Mojo, Twilight has unseated Hugh Jackman’s Van Helsing as the top-opening vampire movie of all time.
Twilight also bested Iron Man for top opening day ticket sales, selling $35.7 million to Iron Man’s $35.2 last May.
And at one point on Friday, Fandango reported selling five Twilight tickets per second.
Should be very interesting to see how sales go over the big holiday weekend. See if the fangirls flock back to see the inhumanly gorgeous Edward Cullen, the way they returned over and over to see Titanic’s Jack Dawson. God knows I did, Twilight got my money Friday, Saturday and Sunday, despite the fact that it wasn’t the greatest movie I’ve ever seen. I paid for two uninterrupted hours of Robert Pattinson …
Of course, Summit Entertainment responded on Saturday by immediately green-lighting Twilight’s first sequel New Moon, details to follow …

Two Hours of Pattz -- Priceless!

Last week’s Top Chef didn’t disappoint, long story short, Jill was told to pack her knives and go. I’ll save my rehash for Wednesday before the new episode airs.

Last week’s Survivor offered up an incredible episode that I will recap prior to this week’s. Yes, there will be a new episode airing Thanksgiving night. Not to keep you in suspense, but Randy was ousted. It was one of the great coups in Tribal Council history.

Bye-Bye Randy


This isn’t a new direction for this blog, I will try to continue posting these recaps in a more timely manner, things just got behind last week.

Here’s some TV news to keep you updated.

The LA Times and TV Guide report this week that ABC has failed to order any new episodes of Pushing Daisies, Eli Stone and Dirty Sexy Money, effectively canceling them when their 13 episodes run out this season.

Scrubs, ending their run on NBC last season, will be seen on ABC beginning Jan. 6 with back-to-back episodes airing for at least the first weeks.

ABC will move Private Practice to 10 p.m. Thursdays, following Grey’s Anatomy. (Yes, I have more to say about the Denny-Izzy storyline, but it will have to wait till later.)


Showtime's Dexter
Everyone’s favoite serial killer, Dexter will continue to keep up his murderous mayhem for Showtime for at least two more seasons! A total of 24 episodes have been ordered up for their top-rated drama. The show is also the network’s best-selling DVD title.
And speaking of Dexter Morgan, Canadian filmmaker Peter Twitchell, an avid Dexter fan, was charged by Edmonton police with the Halloween murder of a man who he lured to a garage through the Internet. The man, Johnny Altinger, reportedly thought he was meeting a women he encountered online. The body hasn’t been found, but police arrested Twitchell after finding a script, in which a male killer lures a cheating husband through an Internet dating scam and decapitates him with a power saw, according to the Vancouver Sun.The killer in Twitchell’s script works for the police, as does Dexter, a Miami blood splatter analyst who moonlights as a serial killer.

Fox has ordered nine more episodes of Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles.

And so has NBC, keeping Knight Rider around a little while longer.

According to the NY Post, the creator of NBC’s ailing Heroes, Tim Kring, says the series could move away from its serialized format. They’re hoping to entice fans back by offering stand alone episodes, instead of the current format, where if you miss one week, you’re lost.

And speaking of Lost … ABC is gearing up for the Jan. 21 premiere with great gusto. I’ve seen many promos for it in the past week … and I can’t wait!! You can catch a Lost fix tonight over on the Sci-Fi channel, which is continuing its Monday night minithons from 7-11 p.m.


Serial Billionaire-Dater Padma
Heads-Up Elfman! The NY Post’s Page Six reports today the no man can resist Top Chef hostess Padma Lakshmi (of course, you already knew that). It seems she traveled to Rochester last week to see the Foo Fighters (who are appearing on this week’s episode), and was delighted when Dave Grohl dragged her onstage and introduced her to the audience. Lakshmi stayed on to play tambourine with the band. Backstage, spies reported that drummer Taylor Hawkins “vied for her attention all night.” Sadly, she didn’t give him her number – doesn’t he know she ONLY dates Billionaires!!

Stylist and Bravo reality star Rachel Zoe is looking for a new home. Seems she is totally freaked out after thieves broke into her West Hollywood home and studio last month. Thousands of dollars worth of dresses and merchandise were taken, yikes!

And in Life Immitating Art News: It appears Sopranos’ star Jamie-Lynn Sigler has gotten close with Jerry “Turtle” Ferrara while filming her guest shots on HBO’s Entourage. She’s been appearing as herself on the hit show, and dating Ferrara’s character Turtle. Last week the couple were photographed leaving a pat at the Chateau Marmount in Hollywood holding hands.


Nazi Cruise?
On TV Tonight: If you’re interested in Tom Cruise’s new film Valkyrie, which is due to open in December, you might want to check out the History channel’s Valkyrie: The Plot to Kill Hitler at 10 p.m. It documents the true story on which the film is based.

Over on MTV at 10 p.m. is yet another new episode of that borefest The Hills. Isn’t this season over yet? Oh well, for some reason beyond explanation, I can’t seem to stop watching that utter jerk Spencer Pratt, what will he do next?

The boys on Prison Break seem to be gearing up for some serious action tonight on Fox at 9 p.m. Will they ever get the final pieces of Scylla? The season’s winding down and will end before Christmas to make room for Jack Bauer’s next 24 hours. And speaking of Jack Bauer, I’ll have a 24: Redemption review soon …


Hiya Hugh!
And the sexiest man alive, Hugh Jackman, will sit down with Conan O’Brien tonight to talk up his latest flick opening Wednesday, Australia.
Cheers!

"I had to spit it out into my napkin," Padma Lakshmi, in Bravo's promo for tonight's episode of Top Chef. I don't know about you, but unless she said that after the quick fire challenge, whoever's food she's referring to is going home ...
This is exactly what I love about this show ... the judges' snarky comments! That's what last week's opener was missing, so I'm glad to see it's starting already. Whatever the dish is, I wonder if it'll compare to Season 3's notorious broccolini side dish. I can't remember who made it, but head judge/chef Tom Colicchio called it "the single worst dish in Top Chef history." While guest judge chef Anthony Bourdain said it was "horrifying!" Really, horrifying!! Food? (Dibs to Elfman for reminding me about the "horrifying" quote, thanks).
Top Chef airs tonight at 10 p.m.

So here it is already Wednesday, and I'm still catching up from the weekend. Long story short, dating couple Terence & Sarah were the unlucky last place finishers on the Amazing Race this week. They were eliminated.

Terence & Sarah
Lots of mistakes were made as the season winds down. A Fast Forward was offered at the beginning of the leg, and although they made it there first, Terence & Sarah had to opt out since Terence is vegetarian and it involved eating meat. This ultimately led to their demise. (Nick & Starr easily finished it and came in first again.) Ken & Tina forgot to read a clue at the bottom of a glass of milk, then returned their cow costumes and had to go back for them. And frat boys Andrew & Dan took a cab to the Pit Stop instead of going on foot (as the clue advised) and had to go back to the last challenge and walk it in.
During a commercial break, we got a promo for this week's Survivor, which has Randy thinking of asking Bob for his "immunity idol." Bob's idol is fake, he made it while on Exile Island last week. Should be interesting ...

Over on Wisteria Lane, the Deperate Housewives' lived thru a nightclub fire that saw the demise of Edie's creepy husband's mysterious doctor - at Dave's hands no less. Everyone else survived, making the episode quite a yawn. The most exciting thing for me was near the end when ABC chose to give us a promo for LOST, starting Jan. 21! Mark your calendars ...

HBO's True Blood was equally boring. Bill completed his sentence, turning the young girl into a vamp. Seems the vamps in this series can only be turned by being burried after they're bitten. Sookie and Sam got closer. Tara got arrested on suspicion of DUI and is bailed out by a strange woman whose agenda we don't know yet. Jason's new girlfriend got murdered by the mystery killer, while the two were tripping on vampire blood. Jason asked to be locked up, believing that he did it and must have been the killer all along. And Sookie rescinded her invitation to Bill after he ruffed up Jason, when he came home to find them together (remember, a vampire must be invited into your home or he can't enter). This Sunday is the finale and we're supposed to find out who the killer is ...

And what the hell is going on over at Seattle Grace? While I'm enjoying Grey's Anatomy again, and I love Denny Duquette, how are they going to explain last week's ending. Izzy, who is desperately trying to let her dead fiance, Denny, go, finally gave in at the end and touched him .... WTH? Can't wait to see where this goes tomorrow night.

Bye-Bye Cody
Last night saw Hannah Montana costar Cody Linley leave the dance floor for the last time on Dancing with the Stars. I guess Julianne Hough didn't have to speed thru her surgical recovery afterall.

Bravo's Real Housewives of Atlanta came to a impasse last night with the show culminating in a dinner where the girls tried to get Kim, Sheree and NeNe back together as friends. It didn't work. Which leaves everything open for an all out brawl next week on the Reunion show (Tuesday, 9 p.m., Bravo).The only other highlight was Project Runway's Mychael Night showing up to offer some fashion design tips to Sheree. Next week, following the reunion, the original real housewives are back for season 3 of the Real Housewives of Orange County.

FX's Sons of Anarchy builds to next week's finale tonight at 10 p.m., while over on Comedy Central, the boys of South Park skewer Twilight.

Over on PBS tonight is the second episode of Monarchy: The Royal Family at Work. I'm totally into this one. It's a guilty pleasure I can't deny (hey, I admit it, I just love the way they talk). And tonight's episode is supposed to feature preparations for the Queen's birthday celebration and a visit by Tony Blair and his wife to the Queen's Balmoral estate.

And speaking of lovely-voiced Brits, Twilight star Robert Pattinson stops by the Today show tomorrow to promote, what else, the most anticipated movie of the holiday season. His co-star Kristen Stewart will appear as well. Today airs from 7-11 a.m. on NBC.

Yeah, just another excuse for
a pic of Pattz
In other Brit news (and I know this is a little late): BBC announced that Scottish actor David Tennant will leave the long-running science fiction series Doctor Who. Tennant has played the show's time- and space-traveling alien hero since 2005. He will appear in a Christmas special and four hour-long episodes to be aired in 2009 and 2010, but when the show returns for its next season there will be a new Doctor. Oddly enough, besides the Doctor, Tennant is best known for playing Barty Crouch Jr. in Harry Potter & the Goblet of Fire.

The Doctor
And as long as we're on the subject, a new trailer for Harry Potter & The Half Blood Prince is supposed to be attached to Twilight and debuting in theaters this weekend.


Bad Boy Bruno
Bruno sighting: Production on NBC's Medium was temporarily shut down earlier this month when an unruly extra in a tense courtroom scene turned out to be Borat star Sacha Baron Cohen, in disguise, filming his next movie. Security forcibly removed Cohen from the jury box and production resumed.
The film is tentatively titled: Bruno: Delicious Journeys Through America for the Purpose of Making Heterosexual Males Visibly Uncomfortable. Now that's a mouthful.

Sexy Jackman!
And finally, congratulations to Hugh Jackman, People magazine's newest Sexiest Man Alive. I couldn't agree more!The saucy-aussie, who will next be scene on the big screen in Baz Luhrman's Australia with Nicole Kidman, sure is one tall drink of water. And let's not forget, we'll get to see him in his rugged sexiness this summer in his very own Wolverine flick. Now that's something to look forward too! Yum!

Sexier Wolverine!

OK, I must apologize, and really, there's no excuse, but I'm totally losing it over the Twilight Mania. This film just can't open soon enough!! It's occupying all my free time. I was off yesterday for my birthday and spent the majority of the day on the computer, watching videos of cast interviews (OK, I'll admit it, mostly of star Robert Pattinson), and then spent last night trying to watch streaming video of the live premiere in Los Angeles, which was just as insane as RPattz' appearance in King of Prussia last week. The live feed was craptastic by the way ...
In case you missed it and are interested, it's all over youtube. I won't bother posting any links here. Anyway, my apologies again, to anyone who took my advice and watched MTV's Spoilers last Friday night. I'm sure you were as disappointed as I was. It was promo-ed as a Twilight Special, with 15 minutes of footage from the movie. Actually it was 15 minutes of footage from upcoming movies - including the Wayans' latest Dance Movie, The Watchmen, and I can't remember the rest, with only a short new scene from Twilight.

Bella and her vamp, Edward
Unless you've been living under a rock for the past two weeks, you've probably heard of this "little" movie, based on a best-selling book series, about a 17-yr.-old girl who falls in love with a unbearably gorgeous vampire. Unlike True Blood, which could sometimes make Jenna Jamison blush, Twilight's romance is sexually tame, to say the least. The couple in question can never get too close, or the vampire's natural instincts might kick in and he'll kill her. Still, it's the romance that has set its fans on fire, not to mention the visually perfect Edward Cullen, played by British actor Robert Pattinson. The film has been offered up as the new Harry Potter, and Pattinson, oddly enough, is best known for bringing tragic Cedric Diggory to life onscreen in Harry Potter & The Goblet of Fire. Poor Cedric was the first big character to be killed off in the wildly popular books.

Poor Cedric
Twilight, the original book in the series, was released in the summer of 2005. The series gained strong recognition when the third edition, Eclipse, knocked Harry Potter & the Deathly Hollows out of the No. 1 spot on the NY Times Best Seller list after only 2 1/2 weeks. I only discovered it while on vacation last August. I finished the first book in a day and by the end of the week, had devoured the other three (and these aren't short books, we're talking 500-750 pgs.). So began my obsession ... all hopefully culminating this Friday when the film opens nationwide. I took the day off, originally to see Harry Potter & The Half Blood Prince, which was supposed to open that day (while Twilight was originally opening Dec. 12). Going to see Harry on opening is a tradition between my sister and myself, since we both read the Potter series at the same time.
Anyway, for some reason (execs say it's not because of Twilight) Warner Bros. moved Harry to next July, and Summit Entertainment saw a great opportunity to open Twilight sooner and in more theaters, making it the most anticipated movie of the holiday season. Only time and box office results will tell if it lives up to the hype and if the sequels (already in pre-production) will be made.
In the meantime, Twilight's so huge that South Park will be parodying it on this week's episode Wednesday at 10 p.m. on Comedy Central.
If you still need more info on Twilight visit http://www.twilightthemovie.com/
The author, Mormon housewife Stephenie Meyer, also has a great Twilight website, visit http://www.stepheniemeyer.com/


OK, I'll try to keep my Twilight fixation in check and get on to other things. Like the other "big" movie opening this weekend ... only this one can be viewed from the comfort of home.
Yes, that's right, I'm talking about Fox's 24: Redemption! Jack's back and in a big way Sunday night at 8 p.m. when he takes on terrorists in Africa.

It's been nearly 18 months since we've seen Keifer Sutherland's popular character save the world, and Fox is hoping fans haven't forgotten. Last season's 24 was a victim of the infamous writers' strike and had to be pushed back to January 2009. 24: Redemption is kind of a bridge between Seasons 6 and 7 (Jan. 11). I like to think of it as an appetizer for us 24 devotees, and all the ladies who need their Jack Bauer fix!
For those of you who haven't discovered this clever, if far-fetched show, yet, 24 is told in "real time," with each episode representing one hour of a day in the life of CTU agent (though not anymore) Jack Bauer gone horribly wrong. Fans know, when this guy has a bad day, he REALLY has a BAD DAY!!
Why I love Jack Bauer:
He literally saves the world, in 24 hours - every time!
He can do anything with a cell phone! Like literally, rule the world if he wanted to!
He never goes to the bathroom -- ever!
He always gets thru to the President, no matter where, 'cuz he always gets cell reception!
He was a devoted friend to President Palmer, the coolest, sexiest TV prez we've ever had!
He takes care of his fellow agents - Chloe, especially!
He still loves Audrey, although he seemingly kissed her good-bye last season!
He never needs to eat!
He has that sexy, gruff voice that always says, "Mr. President, this is Jack Bauer!"
Last season, he survived a nuclear blast!
And the No. 1 reason I love Jack Bauer:

Hell, he died a few seasons back, got his heart shocked back to life, and was up and running after the terrorists in a matter of minutes!

For more info on 24: Redemption visit http://www.fox.com/24/trailer/

Just a reminder, tonight's episode of The Biggest Loser: Families looks like a doosy! It airs from 8-10 pm on NBC.
Bravo's Real Housewives of Atlanta Series Finale bows at 10 p.m.
Tropic Thunder arrives on DVD today. Go rent it, you'll have a great laugh. It's the one with Ben Stiller, Jack Black, and a really, really tan Robert Downey Jr. starring as "actors" making a war film in the jungles of Asia, only to find themselves stuck in a real war situation. The principals are all hilarious, however, it's Tom Cruise's role as the studio head that will leave you rolling on the floor!

Black, Stiller, and yes, that's Downey on the right!
You can view the trailer here http://www.tropicthunder.com/

Also out on DVD today is the animated Wall-E and the teen chick flick Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2. Haven't seen either (but I am planning to), so can't really comment.

Later.

The Slingshot Golf Challenge
Survivor Recap: Things are getting dirty in Gabon, and I don't mean the lack of showers! Tonight's episode picked up on Night 24, right after last week's Tribal Council, which saw original Onion Alliance member Marcus go packing and become the first member of the jury.
Back at camp, Susie praised Ken for orchestrating Marcus' departure. Which prompted Ken to gush with pride, "So far, the last two Tribal Councils I've been to ...they've been blindsides because ... because of me." Bob's worried about being next.

Gabon's mastermind Ken?
On Day 25, the tribe's met up for their reward and Fang found out that Marcus was gone. Alliance member Corinne was visibly upset, saying Marcus didn't deserve to go. "Then who does deserve to go?" Ken asked?
Charlie, another member of Marcus' alliance, was devastated. Not sure if it was for his alliance loss or because of his crush on Marcus.
The reward challenge had the tribe's playing slingshot golf to achive the gift of a visit to a Gabonese tribe for another overnight stay that would offer dancing and a feast. It all came down to the last "hole," and Randy freaked out on Matty, barking orders about how far to stretch the slingshot (they were literally standing over the target). Matty was visibly irritated, and shushed Randy. Matty and Randy start arguing back and forth, and Matty finally listens to Randy and drops the ball in the sandpit, winning reward for Fang.
Fang decided to send Bob to Exile Island and went off to their reward.
Back at Kota, Ken gets hung up on a stick in the river, and can't help patting himself on the back for the great job he's doing running the game. (At this point I was convinced that Ken would be going home, since they usually feature the player that's going home on their last episode.)
On Exile Island, Bob finds all the clues, but no immunity idol (because Sugar already has it). So the physics professor decided to craft his own "idol" to see if he can fool anyone with it (and does a pretty good job, I must say).
Tribe's are given a hint to the immunity challenge involving starting a fire. Randy, still sour from the previous challenge, turns his anger toward his nemesis Crystal, whom he nicknames "sasquatch."

Randy's Nemesis, Crystal
When they arrive for the challenge, Jeff tells everyone that it is an individual immunity challenge and to "drop their buffs, you are no longer two tribes." Hooray, it's merge time!
The survivors get ready for the challenge and it's off to a slow start. Each has a knife and flint to make fire. Susie's the first to get a fire going, followed shortly after by Sugar. It's not long before their fires are growing in height, in order to burn thru a rope, thus ending the challenge. Susie wins easily, as no one else is able to get a fire started.
And this is when it gets really interesting ... from here on to the finale should be great. I don't like any of these people, and now they're all turning on each other. It makes for great TV!
On the way back to to the Kota camp, where they will live now and come up with a new tribe name, Randy vows not to return to camp after Tribal Council with Crystal, "She'll be gone or I'll be gone!"
After enjoying their first meal together, the tribe members quickly break into groups. Charlie, Corinne, Bob and Randy decide to get rid of Crystal (big surprise). While Matty, Susie, Crystal and Ken single out Corinne. Sugar is the obvious swing vote.
Corinne sucks up to Sugar, but still can't stand her, "she's such a moron." While Ken convinces the others that Charlie is the real mastermind of Kota. In reality, Ken just wants Charlie gone for taking the clue to the hidden immunity idol away from him at the Tribe Switch Feast on last week's episode. "I'll trade the idol for his life. Serves him right," Ken said.
The tribe manages to come up with Nobag for their new name.
At a very vocal Tribal Council, Randy's still ticked about the argument at the reward challenge. Crystal interrupts and wants to know why Randy has issues with her (oh no she didn't!). Randy has no problem telling her, saying she and GC ran Fang like it was their gang. He also accuses her of making his life hell and for being the reason that Fang lost nearly every challenge!
And then the voting began, with Randy casting his vote for Crystal, saying "See ya Bitch!" Sugar was the last to cast her vote with tears in her eyes ... everyone voted as planned, with Sugar casting the deciding ballot against Charlie! Stupid move Sugar ... it will come back to bite you later.
In his departure interview, Charlie gushed that at least now he'll be in the Jury Hous with Marcus. How sweet -- only Marcus isn't gay Charlie!

Sorry, Charlie!
Next week's preview had everyone talking about Randy, who seems to be even further in the deep end, literally, skinny dipping again.
For info or to watch visit http://www.cbs.com/primetime/survivor/


Hottie Pattinson
Last night the Plaza at King of Prussia was overrun with tweens and their moms, waiting for a chance to catch a glimpse of their Twilight idol, Edward Cullen, aka Robert Pattinson. The British actor was on hand to sign autographs for those lucky enough to get one of 500 wristbands. A short (I think about 10 minutes) Q&A followed in the mall's concourse, but according to videos posted on youtube, like his other appearances, the screaming was so overwhelming you couldn't hear the man speak. And the film doesn't even open till Nov. 21.
Here's a link to Fox's interview with the handsome star http://www.myfoxphilly.com/myfox/

For more Twilight, check out MTV's new show Spoilers tonight at 7:30 p.m. Pattinson, co-star Kristen Stewart, and other actors from the film were on hand live last week at the Los Angeles taping, which promises to include 15 minutes of clips from Twilight.

Twilight Cast
Also, pick up a copy of Sunday's Mercury for an interview with the vampire. The USA Weekend magazine in The Mercury Sunday features an article and pull-out poster of the movie as well.

The Hollywood Reporter reports today that Summit Entertainment is giving the greenlight to Twilight sequels New Moon and Eclipse, and that screenwriter Melissa Rosenberg has already been asked with scripting them.
For more on Twilight visit the offical movie site http://www.twilightthemovie.com/

Weekend Watch: Tonight the Disney channel presents The Adventures of Shark Boy and Lava Girl at 9 p.m., featuring Taylor Lautner - yeah, another shout out to Twilight. Lautner plays Jacob Black in Twilight, a pivotal character in the second and third books.

Lautner as Jacob Black

Saturday on HBO is the debut of Ricky Gervais: Out of England at 9 p.m. The original Office creator and Bitish comic performs in New York City.

Elsewhere Saturday, the Hallmark Channel debuts an original movie The Accidental Friendship. It features Chandra Wilson (Grey's Anatomy's awesome Dr. Bailey) as a homeless woman who forms an unlikely friendship with some unfortunate canines and a local police officer who helps change her life. I'm a total sucker for dog movies!

Sunday night, the Desperate Housewives over on Wisteria Lane get caught in a nightclub fire! Last year it was the tornado, now this - maybe they should change neighborhoods! Anyway, somebody isn't supposed to survive - will it be Edie's creepy husband (who appears to be behind the fire), or Lilly Tomlin, who plays Mrs. McCluskey's sister (I mean, really, how many episodes do you think she really signed for?) Airs at 9 p.m. on ABC.

And don't forget Star Wars fans!! Sunday night at 11:30 p.m. the Cartoon Network presents Robot Chicken: Star Wars Pt. 2!

In other news: It's curtains for NBC's Lipstick Jungle and My Own Worst Enemy. The network isn't ordering any more new episodes. I should've saw this coming when they unceremoniously moved Jungle to 10 p.m. Fridays. Oh well, I guess I don't have to watch that anymore.
To bad for Christian Slater, though. Oh, who am I kidding, like I ever watched My Own Worst Enemy ...

Have a Great Weekend. I'll be off celebrating my B-day on Monday, so I probably won't be back blogging till Tuesday. Enjoy!