Sad Love Story

Which sad love story left the deepest impression on you? DOCTOR ZHIVAGO, THE WAY WE WERE... TITANIC are three that deeply affected me.

Why is that? Why do some books/movies tug harder at our heartstrings than others? I believe it is because they involve us until we absorb the characters - in a sense becoming them, thinking their thoughts, feeling their anguish.

Drawn into their world, we forget our own for a while and live in another's skin. This has especial potency if their life is colorful and exciting, as fictional lives tend to be. And if that is true for the reader, how much more true might it be for the writer?

Many authors have described reaching the end of a manuscript as a kind of bereavement. Suddenly, the characters exist in their own right. Their story is told and they can now stand alone, abandoning their creator.

A sad day, but also a happy one, for the work is done. The romantic novel has at last been written. No longer a work in progress, it has taken on a life of its own. Where will it go? Who will find it and read it... and share in the feelings of the people populating its pages?

Of course the hope is that it will reach a wide audience and that the enforced isolation of the writing process has been in a good cause. Otherwise, why write? Then again, it sometimes seems as if there is no option but to release the plot churning round and round in one's head!

Where does the plot come from? That depends of course on who the author is and where they look for inspiration. Victoria Wood, true genius that she is with words - whether these be written, spoken or sung - seems to find hers everywhere. She writes from life as she sees it and while her work is usually funny it can also be very poignant and moving.

Joanna Trollope is such a wonderful observer of human behavior that her 'aga sagas' give a great insight into contemporary life, and when she writes as Caroline Harvey her historical novels too have the absolute ring of truth. Joanna's plots are found in the present, Caroline's in the past, yet both are essentially from the same source! One can only marvel at such versatility.

While writing recently with a sad love story theme, I had the strange experience of the characters totally taking over from me. I had created them (or so I believed) and yet from a fairly early stage they seemed to be making their own choices and leaving me simply to record these! At times I was even shocked by their wayward behavior and felt I should perhaps rein them in...

I wondered whether my grandmother was in any sense responsible for this phenomenon. You see, back when I was a child at her knee she told me that some day she'd like me to write her life story. Long after she had died I recalled her wish and set out to fulfill it. But having too vivid an imagination to be a biographer (and in any event she was no longer there to answer my questions), I decided to take a tiny thread from her life and embroider it lavishly into a work of pure fiction.

So did she help me from beyond the grave while I was writing about a charismatic actress who had inexplicably abandoned the London stage for a bizarre castle in Czechoslovakia? My firm belief is that she did.

READ MORE - Sad Love Story

Facts About Paris Hilton

Paris Hilton's full name is: Paris Whitney Hilton.

Paris Hilton is the oldest child of four. Paris Hilton has a sister Nicky Hilton, a brother Barron Hilton and another brother Conrad Hilton.

Paris Hilton was born on the 17th of February 1981 (placing her under the star sign of Aquarius) - she was born in New York City in the United States of America.

Incredibly Paris Hilton's natural eye colour is brown. Paris Hilton actually wears contact lenses to change her natural eye colour of brown to blue.

Paris Hilton had her own reality tv show with on/off best friend Nicole Ritchie. Paris Hilton's reality tv show "The Simple Life" has so far produced five season's. It is believed at this stage there will be another season of "The Simple Life".

Paris Hilton was sentenced to 45 days in jail for driving under the influence and driving on a suspended licence (from a previous driving under the influence charge) but Paris's jail sentence was later reduced to just 23 days in jail. Paris Hilton served 3 days of her 23 day jail sentence under home arrest.

While Paris Hilton was in jail it was estimated that she received over 20,000 fan mail letters. Paris Hilton was quick to respond to her fan base with a handwritten photocopied letter and sent each fan an autographed photo of herself.

Paris Hilton's mother Kathy Richards was an actress.

Paris Hilton has starred in movies such as: The House of Wax, Pledge This and Zoolander.

Paris Hilton is well known for her saying "That's Hot". In the year 2004 Paris Hilton trademarked her saying "That's hot".

Paris Hilton has also begun her own singing career. Some of her tracks include: Turn It Up, Fightin' Over Me, Stars are Blind, I Want You, Turn You On, Do You Think I'm Sexy, Screwed, Nothing In This World and Heartbeat.

Paris Hilton is the daughter of Rick Hilton - from "Hilton" hotels.

READ MORE - Facts About Paris Hilton

Child's Play (1988)

The killer doll subgenre was rejuvenated in 1988 when Tom Holland (Fright Night) and United Artists unleashed sneering, red-headed Good Guy doll Chucky upon the world in Child's Play. The film reteams director Holland (whose direction here is very solid and stylish) with Fright Night star Chris Sarandon and is based on a Don Mancini script that, like Fright Night's, is scary and funny at the same time and pokes some good-natured fun at '80s horror films in general.

With a $9,000,000 budget, the film was anything but cheap to make but grossed an impressive $44,000,000 theatrically worldwide, marking it as a huge success that has spawned (to date) four direct sequels and a number of imitators like Dolly Dearest, Puppet Master, Demonic Toys and Pinocchio's Revenge. The terrific Stuart Gordon film Dolls actually preceeded the release of Child's Play by about a year and wasn't a success with mainstream audiences, but I imagine both Dolls and Child's Play (which are rather different from each other in tone and thematically) nonetheless helped to usher in the popularity of the evil doll subgenre during the late '80s and early '90s.

Child's Play opens with late-night chase and shootout down an empty Chicago alley, with serial strangler Charles Lee Ray (Brad Dourif) being pursued on foot by armed cop Mike Norris (Chris Sarandon), who tries valiantly to pump a few bullets into the notorious murderer from afar and misses at first, but finally manages to lodge one into Ray's back, mortally wounding him. Bleeding Ray shoots through the door of a closed toy store with his own weapon and ducks into the building, weaving surreptitiously between the aisles of merchandise as Norris follows him inside.

Knowing he's dying, Ray grabs the nearest Good Guy doll, a popular talking battery-powered kids doll, and by reciting a macabre incantation transfers his soul into that of the plastic toy just seconds before the occult ritual causes a massive explosion in the store strong enough to bust out the windows and send toys flying in every direction. Norris is unhurt and soon finds Ray's lifeless human body lying next to the cute doll and thinks that the so-called Lakeshore Strangler's reign of murder has been put to rest.

Soon after Ray's "death", hard-working single mom Karen Barclay (Catherine Hicks) buys the very same doll -- from a peddler in an alley behind the mall where she works -- as a birthday present for her 6-year-old son Andy (Alex Vincent), who couldn't be happier when he tears open the wrapped gift and discovers he now has the fantasy of every boy in America -- a Good Guy named "Chucky", a doll with a shock of fire engine red hair and clad in blue overalls that can walk and talk and provide hours of enjoyment for a lonely child. But after Karen has to work late one night and has friend and coworker Maggie (Dinah Manoff) babysit Andy, who winds up mysteriously falling to her death from the top-floor window of the apartment, Andy informs his worried mother and -- by sheer coincidence -- investigating cop Mike Norris that Chucky is alive and capable of human thought.

No one believes him, of course, and the very day after Maggie dies, Andy skips school under the direction of his new plastic friend and takes the city bus into the Chicago ghetto, to an abandoned house where Chucky knows double-crossing ex-cronie Eddie Caputo (Neil Giuntoli) squats. Andy waits outside while Chucky sneaks into the house and turns on the curiously working gas oven on in the rat-infested kitchen while Caputo sleeps upstairs... and next thing you know, the house is in flames with the homeless Caputo roasted inside.

The cops find Andy and his creepy doll at the scene of the fire and take him into custody, and the boy continues babbling his mad stories about Chucky being alive and threatening to kill him if he ever tells anyone the doll is alive. Karen is devastated when Andy is promptly thrown into a psychiatric children's hospital for observation, but she soon discovers for herself when she brings the doll home that Chucky is indeed alive... and to make matters worse, the plastic fiend is determined to transfer his soul into Andy's body before he is trapped in the body of a Good Guy doll forever.

Veteran actress Catherine Hicks makes a smashing horror film debut as sacrificing mom Karen Barclay, and Chris Sarandon is likewise very strong as determined cop Mike Norris. Dinah Manoff proves once again she's a great character actress playing the spirited but ill-fated Maggie. Brad Dourif was already regarded as a terrific actor by the time the film was made, but Chucky became his most famous role nevertheless. Apart from the opening scene, his performance is delivered off-screen, and his work remains some of the most impassioned voice acting in film history right up there with Mercedes McCambridge's stunning voice work on The Exorcist. Jack Colvin of TV's incredible Hulk fame plays Dr. Ardmore, the head psychiatrist at the mental institution where Andy is detained and gets his brains fried by Chucky via electric shock. Kevin Yagher's puppet effects are very cutting edge for their day and breathe life into the frightening Chucky.

READ MORE - Child's Play (1988)

nterview With Comedienne Fran Capo

Today, Norm Goldman, Editor of Sketchandtravel & Bookpleasures is delighted to have as a guest, Fran Capo.

Fran is quite a "cool person," as she is an eight-time author, humorist, voiceover artist, comedienne, adventurer, actress, freelance writer and keynote motivational speaker. She also holds the Guinness Book Worlds Record for the Fastest Talking Female.

Recently, Fran accomplished another amazing feat as the first and only author to ever do a book signing on the top of Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa with the release of her book "Adrenaline Adventures: Dream it, Read it, Do it!"

Good day Fran and thank you for agreeing to participate in our interview for Sketchandtravel.com and Bookpleasures.com.

Norm:

Could you tell our audience something about yourself and how you became involved in your various occupations?

Fran:

Sure Norm, first let me say its great to be here, and I thank you for having me on as a guest.

Since you mentioned a bunch of the things I did up front, I guess I'll start with how I became a stand up comic, as this was my first entry into the entertainment world.

In school I was known for my sense of humor and some of my classmates suggested a career as a stand-up comic. This had me thinking as to how life would be as a stand-up comic, and I started to watch comics on TV, comedy clubs, listening to comedy albums, etc. I said to myself, I could do this. I asked God to give me the right sign if I should do comedy.

Two occurrences happened that were my go ahead signs. One, when someone turned around in a movie lineup and complimented me on my sense of humor, after hearing me crack jokes to my friends. He suggested I audition for the Comic Strip. Another happened at a car convention, where a fortune- teller analyzed my handwriting and told me I had a good sense of humor and use it to make money.

I eventually did audition at a club called Creighton and Gray's Comedy Room that was very near my home, with material given to me by my friend Barry, who was in my acting class at the time. This was my first success as a stand up comedienne and I received a standing ovation as well as $10. I was a mini-local celebrity, with rave press reviews. I spent the next 15 years of my career figuring out ways to get in print, on radio and television.

Norm:

What is this about- the holding of the "Guinness Book Worlds Record for the Fastest Talking Female?"

Fran:

Well the stand-up comedy gig lead to my fast-talking by accident. My philosophy is just always say yes and figure it out after how I am going to do something.

My stand up landed me a job doing weather and traffic at a radio station WBLS-FM in New York. I was doing it as this comedy character June East (Mae West's long-lost sister). One day, Dinah Prince, a reporter from the Daily News called and said she wanted to do an article on me. When she had finished interviewing me for the article, she asked-What are you planning to do next?

Next? Well at the time there was nothing I was planning on doing next, so I asked her what she meant, stalling for time. She said she really wanted to follow my career. Here was a woman from The Daily News telling me she was interested in me! So I thought I'd better tell her something.

What came out was, "I'm thinking about breaking the Guinness Book of World Records for the Fastest Talking Female." The newspaper article came out the next day, and she included my parting remarks about trying to break the world's Fastest-Talking Female record. At about 5:00 P.M. that afternoon, I received a call from CNN asking me to go on the Larry King Live Show. They wanted me to try to break the record. They told me they would send a limo to pick me up at 8:00. That was only three hours. Talk about pressure!

I had never heard of Larry King Live, and when I heard the woman say she was from a Manhattan Channel, I thought, "Hmmm that's a porn channel, right?" She patiently assured me that it was a respectable national television show and that this was a one-time offer and opportunity - it was either that night or not at all.

I managed to find a replacement for a gig I had in New Jersey. I next sat down to figure out what on earth I was going to do on the show. I called Guinness to find out what the rules were to break a fast-talking record. They told me I would have to recite something from either Shakespeare or the Bible. Suddenly, I started saying the ninety-first Psalm, a prayer for protection that my mom had taught me. Shakespeare and I had never really gotten along, so I figured the Bible was my only hope. I practiced over and over again, timing myself with a stop- watch to see how fast I could do it. I was both nervous and excited at the same time.

At 8:00, the limousine picked me up. I practiced the entire way there, and by the time I reached the New York studio I felt as if my tongue was going to fall off. I asked the producer, "What happens if I don't break the record?' She replied, "Larry doesn't care if you break it or not. He just cares that you try it on his show first." So I asked myself, What's the worst thing that can happen? I'd look like a fool on national television! A minor thing, I could live through that. Then I asked myself , And what happens if I break the record?" Now that would be great.

I decided just to give it my best shot, and I did. I broke the record, becoming the World's Fastest Talking Female by speaking 585 words in one minute in front of a national television audience. (I broke it again two years later at the Guinness Museum in Vegas with 603 words per minute.) My career took off.

Norm:

Why did you want to have a book signing on Mount Kilimanjaro, and could you describe to us a little about your experience, particularly your voyage up to its summit, and how did you plan for it? Were you ever afraid?

Fran:

Again, it goes back to my basic philosophy's...of seize the day...and just going after things with a passion. I was actually researching a chapter in my book Adrenaline Adventures: Dream it, Read it, Do it. I read that an 83- year old women climbed Kilimanjaro. So I figured if she could do it, so could I.

I enlisted my son, Spencer into the effort, contacted a top outfit, CorbetBishopsafaris.com in Africa (the same guy that lead the IMAX movie team up the mountain.)

Then I figured if I was going to train, climb and do this feat, I might as well make it memorable at the top. So I decided to do a book signing up there, I managed to get two sponsors, my publisher Authorhouse and Snickers Marathon Energy Bars.

It took us 7 days to summit, going through 5 climate zones. The night of summit we were woken up at 11 PM, it was unseasonably cold. Minus 15 degrees and 45 mph winds, our camelbacks froze, and you felt like sleeping while standing up.

It took us 18 hours to get up over and down to camp. It was the hardest thing I've ever done (and this is coming from someone who has run the marathon, flown combat aircraft, rode a bike non stop for 100 miles, driven race car, dove with sharks etc...(all of which are talked about in Adrenaline Adventures of course.)

But after Spencer and I climbed it was such a feeling of accomplishment. Plus I had wanted to do it now, since global warming will melt the ice caps by 2015 if not sooner.

The picture of me doing the book signing circulated around the world, and it led to Brian Day O'Conner (Supreme Court justice Sandra Day O'Conner's son) contacting me.

I am now raising sponsorship money to go down in a two-person submersible to the Titanic with Mr. O'Conner. My publisher, Authorhouse, Ripley's Believe it or Not (Planet Eccentric) and GoldenPalace.com the #1 online casino, so far have jumped on board as sponsors. (You can read all about it on my website under sponsorship.)

While down there I am going to be doing a memorial service for the titanic passengers, saying a non-denominational maritime prayer direct from a Navy Chaplain. Did I mention I am also an ordained minister? Yup, became one so I could do this the right way.

Norm:

Which one of your occupations do you find the most enjoyable and why?

Fran:

Wow, that's a hard one, because I really enjoy all that I do. I love making people laugh, so stand up feels great. I hopefully make people forget their problems at least for that night.

I love inspiring people, so I get a real kick out of doing my keynote motivational talk for people called, "Dare to Do it!" Especially when they come up to me and hug me, or when I get an email that they went out and did something they've always wanted to do because they, "Dared to do it."

I love doing my adventures, because it challenges me personally and makes life exciting.

I love writing, so nine books later it feels awesome to see my books in store windows, on websites, and especially when I catch someone reading it on the bus or subway.

I just love communicating with people. As long as I am making them laugh or inspiring them, I'm happy.

Norm:

Please tell us something about your most recent book Hopeville: the City of Light.

Fran:

The Hopeville book, came to me in a strange way, just like the comedy did. It's a story about four people that on the same night pray for light in the world, because they are discouraged. An angel of light appears to each of them and tells them a secret of how to change their town. Each of them does it in his/her own way...and finally after the people see the light, the town is forever changed. It's a book of hope, light and following your dreams. But like I said the book came to me in a very strange way.

Norm:

Could you tell our audience about some of your other travel adventures? Which one up to now has been the most exciting, and why?

Fran:

Well, I've done 50 different adventures, ranging from mild to wild; I mentioned some before but others like flying a helicopter, doing the luge, the polar bear plunge, rock repelling, biking down a volcano, going in a deprivation tank etc.

They all give you an adrenaline rush in a different way. Mind you, I'm usually scared when I do all of them...its just that I have a philosophy of "FEAR NOTHING, but if you do, do it anyway." See all of us have fear, the key is some of us let it paralyse us, while others use it as the spark for the engine. As far as hardest it was definitely climbing Kilimanjaro. As far as a rush; my four favorites Skydiving, driving racecars, cavern diving and snorkeling with manatees. Okay who am I kidding, I really love them all, except maybe the glass blowing...I wasn't too thrilled with that. But my fiancée loved it...so everybody's different.

The cool thing about the book though is it has adventures that you can't find in other travel books. Plus it has 50 motivational quotes, 50 funny adventure stories, and 50 "Adventure at a glance" pages that tell you all the details so you can do the adventure if you are so inspired.

Norm:

Could you tell us how you go about marketing your books?

Fran: I do many things. First, realize that writing the book is usually the easiest part. Getting people to know about it is the real challenge. And the key is YOU as the writer needs to do most of the legwork.

· Okay, so I send out galley copies to newspapers before the book comes out.

· I send press releases to radio stations, mag. Etc. Using my hook as a fast talker to catch their attention.

· I set up some kind of publicity event so that my book stands out.

· I have a bookstore on my website.

· I carry a box of books in my car at all times. I once sold a book on top of the Sydney Bridge in Australia, thus getting the phrase from my fiancée, "No one's safe."

· I set up book signings. · I contact local media.

· I mention the books at all my speaking engagements and comedy gigs.

· I do interviews like this to let people know about my books · I link with other sites that have readers that may be interested in my books.

· I offer my books to charity's for fundraising events.

Norm:

Has the Internet boosted your career and if so, how?

Fran:

Absolutely. I'd say 90% of my speaking engagements come to me from my website. Usually people will be searching comedian, fast talker, or motivational speaker and my name pops up.

Also, I notice when I do radio shows and mention the website I get a lot of requests that way as well. I think it is essential for every business person these days to have a easily navigatable website.

Norm:

How do you want the world to remember Fran Capo? (I know you are not leaving us just now!)

Fran:

She lived life the way she wanted to...with love, with laughter, with passion and never took no for an answer. She used up all God gave her, and tried to inspire people to do the same.

Norm:

Is there anything else you care to add that we have not covered?

Fran:

Yes, remember-Live everyday as if it's your last, and one day you'll be right.

And of course what kind of marketing author would I be if I did not mention the following: I have a newsletter that keeps people updated on the Capo happenings, simply called, CAPO UPDATES. Anyone interested can go to my website and ask to be on the list.

And of course if you would like to be part of the world record event at the titanic...the sponsorship information is available at my website. Thanks so much Norm, I hope your readers enjoy the interview.

Norm Goldman is the Editor of bookpleasures.com & sketchandtravel.com. The former is a book reviewing site comprising over 25 international prestigious reviewers. The latter is a travel site where Norm and his artist wife, Lily, meld words with art.

READ MORE - nterview With Comedienne Fran Capo

Books That Became Great Movies And Vice Versa

Who does not love a great movie? These days movies are probably more popular as a form of entertainment than reading (I say probably because I still want to believe that the world chooses reading first!). At least us book lovers out there can rest assured that the stories, the really good ones that we could not put down, are often being turned into equally great movies! For example, The Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood written by Rebecca Wells is charming, funny, and devastatingly honest about alcoholism and how it affects a childs life all the way into adulthood. Sidda and Vivis tumultuous relationship is easy to imagine and easier to root for a happy ending. This is a book worth reading as well as continuing on to read the titles spun off of it (Little Altars Everywhere and Ya-Yas in Bloom).

The movie is just as good. Of course, as any true Harry Potter fan will tell you, it is IMPOSSIBLE to include all the good parts of book in the movie version. The best we can hope for is a good rendition of our beloved story. Well, the Ya-Ya movie does its mother creation justice! Sandra Bullock is perfectly cast as Sidda, the jaded but good natured daughter. And never was there a better Vivi than Ashley Judd (young woman) and Ellen Burstyn. These two actresses flawlessly turn Vivi into a loveable, horrible mother whom we cheer on till the very end. Finally the movie would not be complete without James Garners sweet portrayal of Shep Walker.

So you see, it is possible. Great books CAN turn into great movies! Of course, there are the times where a great book is totally butchered (A Series of Unfortunate Events anyone?) but that is a conversation for another time.

READ MORE - Books That Became Great Movies And Vice Versa

Stacy Dillsen From Zoey 101 And Her Lisping Followers

Abby Wilde's real name is Miriam Dauermann (aka Stacy Dillsen of Zoey 101), and is an American actress and singer. She was born on in San Francisco, California. When she was six years old, she became interested in acting, and enrolled in an acting class, together with her brothers at their local YMCA.

Abby Wilde is well known for her role as Stacy Dillsen on the popular show Zoey 101. She appeared in seasons three and four of the show. Stacy Dillsen appeared in 31 of the 39 episodes of seasons three and four combined. Stacy Dillsen has a very pronounced lisp, meaning she struggles with s's. Kids worldwide love to imitate her lisp. In Zoey 101, she is always haunted by bad luck. Some of her famous quotes/songs/noises are...

1. She counts out 10 cotton swabs as "one Mississippi, two Mississippi, etc all the way up to 10 Mississippi" with her lisp exaggerated.

2. She makes a strange sort of "grunting" noise when something happens to her

3. Her character is famous for short song about sassafras tea which goes "You can sip it in the morning, sip it in the evening, even at a quarter to three, cause I like sassafras, you like sassafras, we all like sassafras tea".

Zoey 101 is an American tv series. It stars Jamie Lynn Spears who plays a teenager by the name of Zoey Brooks. It was produced for Nickelodeon. It ran from January 2005 to May 2008. The show received a nomination for an "Outstanding Children's Program" Emmy in 2005.

Nickelodeon has released boxed sets of all four seasons dvds, as well as other merchandise around the tv series.

Abby Wilde's interests/hobbies include making films, doing charity work, making YouTube videos of herself playing ukulele/ranting about not getting a part in a Noel Coward play. She also enjoys include knitting, gardening, Shakespeare, improv comedy, thunderstorms, yoga, reading, Greek mythology and musical theatre.

Many people ask her if she talks like Stacy Dillsen from Zoey 101 in real life. She explains she does not talk like that in real life, that she was asked to put on a lisp to play her character, so she found someone with a lisp and copied them. She says speaking with a lisp is easy. Videos of her can be found on the internet speaking as she does in real life, proving her lisp is only part of her Stacy Dillsen character.

READ MORE - Stacy Dillsen From Zoey 101 And Her Lisping Followers

My 2010 Movie Awards

So, we have finally closed the book on 2010. Now, as we transition into the new year, this is when most people reflect back on the year before. In the movie world, this is also when critics and movie lovers take the time to review the past year. Not to mention, this is awards season. With the Critics' Choice Awards in just a couple of weeks and the Oscars less than two months ago, suffice to say the red carpet is officially out.

Today, I'm going to throw myself into that very ring as we bring you Couch Potato Club's 2010 Movie Awards. Up front, though, I would like to go ahead and say, I'm going to do this different than those big award shows. For one, you'll see some of the typical categories, but likewise there will be some off-beat ones. Also, call me crazy, but I believe the biggest factor in judging a movie is its entertainment value. Granted all of the other little facets of making a movie help to make a movie better, however I believe entertainment succeeds a movie's technical prowess in order to define whether it is good or not. So, you won't be seeing me awarding these "artsy" movies just because of their "cinematic achievement" (whatever the hell that is). Instead, I'll be judging on good ole entertainment value (with acting, story, etc. playing factors).

So, without further ado, here are the winners of the first annual Couch Potato Club Movie Awards.

Best Film: Inception

For me this came down to Inception and Black Swan. I've honestly spent days mulling it over in my head which would be my movie of the year. However, in the end, Inception wins out. Inceptionwas also perfect in a sense. With intelligent writing, good acting, fun action, great cinematography and so on and so on, the movie proved to be awesome style with great substance. Nolan proved once again here why he is one of (if not THE) most sought after filmmakers today. A narrative genius. After watching this movie, it made me realize what a god-send Nolan is to Hollywood really. Everybody in Hollywood should be taking notes. This is exactly how a blockbuster movie should be done. Let's not kid ourselves, blockbuster action movies will continue to be the bread and butter of Hollywood for some time to come. While this is alright, the problem usually lies in that they're so shallow and cliche and just "eh". They usually just rely on cool action sequences and awesome looking special effects. Not Inception, though. This movie provides all that, but then actually brings substance to that style giving us an engaging and mind-bending/intelligent storyline to go with it. This perfect blend makes Inception my movie of the year.

Best Actor: James Franco - 127 Hours

I've said it before and I'll say it again: you want to test the merit of an actor? Throw him in a movie where he is pretty much the only one ever on-screen and he has to carry the entire movie himself. Where the whole weight of the entire movie rests most assuredly on his shoulders. Will he shine? Will he crumble? This is the test. Others have proven themselves in the same way (Will Smith, Tom Hanks). And truly I believe this (and the "retard role") is one of the biggest ways to test an actor and see if he's one of the greats. So, enter James Franco and 127 Hours. Playing a mountain climber that gets trapped under a boulder and is all alone, Franco is left to carry an entire film on his own. Does he succeed? Damn right he does. With flying colors at that. Keeping it interesting, conveying a range of emotions throughout the film and sucking you in all on his own, Franco clearly shows he had the mettle to tackle such a daunting task and come out on top. For that reason, he's my actor of the year.

Best Actress: Natalie Portman - Black Swan

Natalie's performance in the Aronofsky psychological thriller is absolutely brilliant. Her best work to-date in my opinion. Playing a role that requires her to eventually transition from sweet little naive princess girl to girl-gone-wild (in a dark side kinda way), she hits every beat without missing a step. I believe the biggest factor for a good actor/actress is range. Anybody can shine in a part that was just made for them (in line with their natural persona), but range and playing different personas/characters is where an actor/actress can show their true prowess. In Black Swanalone, Natalie Portman has shown, in just the 2 hours, that she has more range than most actresses around. She exhibited more range in one performance than most do in their entire career. For such a brilliant performance Natalie Portman gets my vote as actress of the year. I don't think this is even up for debate.

Best Supporting Actor: Christian Bale - The Fighter

Here's another that I feel is just a given and isn't up for debate. Bale absolutely stole the show in every scene he appeared in The Fighter. The weight loss alone shows Bale's dedication to his craft. Furthermore, the way he was able to lose himself in that crackhead persona and into the role of Dicky Eklund just further proved what an amazing actor Bale is. To really show you how brilliant his performance was, the video clip of real-life Dicky during the credits showed you just how well Bale nailed that performance. It had to almost be like looking in a mirror for Dicky.

Best Supporting Actress: Melissa Leo - The Fighter

Yes, the supporting cast of The Fighter was just great. They're the ones that kept this movie afloat. Leo's turn as the "white trash" overbearing mother was great and was another (along with Bale's performance) that really helped this movie shine. Without these two, The Fighter bombs.

Best Director: Darren Aronofsky - Black Swan

Like I said, best film was down to Black Swan and Inception for me. Aronofsky's work here was damn near perfect. This was a brilliantly directed movie. From the camera shots to the music to the story-telling to what he got out of his cast, Aronofsky did a great job in conveying this thriller story very aptly on all levels. As one of my favorite modern directors, it's no surprise that Aronofsky continues to impress year after year.

Best Screenplay: Mark Heyman, Andres Heinz and John McLaughlin - Black Swan

For me, screenplay/story is probably the biggest factor in determining whether a movie is entertaining. Afterall, without an intriguing and entertaining story, then your movie is just going to suck. That being said, it's no surprise that this, for me, came down to Black Swan and Inceptionagain; the two movies vying for my Best Film award. However, in the end I have to go with Black Swan edging out in this category. The story was great in my opinion. Very thrilling and intriguing story that left you on your seat the whole while through. To top it off, though, was all the subtext present throughout the film. From the "life imitates art" to the "greed can consume us all" to the commentary of how much pressure can be put on an entertainer and the risks they ensue when losing themselves in a performance in order to be "perfect". This script had it all and fired on so many cylinders. Truly was a great story and I loved how the main character's life began to mirror the very character she was attempting to play on stage.

Best Ensemble Cast: The Fighter

I guess after the previous supporting awards, this should come as no surprise. However, I will say I was also seriously considering The Town for this award which had a very good all-around performance from its entire cast. However, the cast of The Fighter performed well in all areas. Even Mark Wahlberg was decent enough (and I don't particularly care for him). Though, he was the weak link and his actual character was boring. However, everyone else turned in fine performances that, as a whole, really pulled you into the family in the film. Then the performances of Bale and Leo really just pushed the overall ensemble over the top. Meanwhile, Amy Adams delivered a very good performance as well standing out.

Breakout Performance of the Year: Jennifer Lawrence - Winter's Bone

The movie itself, I found was fairly overrated. However, Jennifer Lawrence in Winter's Bone did an absolutely wonderful job of playing the role of Ree Dolly. If not for her, the entire movie would have been a wash. However, her performance was very nice to watch. It made it even more worthwhile as I got to witness that this girl is actually a very adept actress. Before this, I had only seen her in 'The Bill Engvall Show' where she plays the typical cliche ditzy teenage girl. Which, honestly, there are a million and one girls in the nation that could pull that off. Watching her go from that ditzy teenager to this gritty and convincing performance was definitely a treat for me and showed me her worth. For that, she receives my Breakout Performance of the Year award.

Best Action Movie: Inception

Inception wins here. Of course being my Best Film of the Year, it's going to also win in its specific genre category. The movie fires on all cylinders for an almost nonstop joyride, especially for the last half of the film. The last half especially, with the gun fights and chases and fights, etc. prove to be an adrenalin rush of action. Again, this is pretty much the Hollywood-action-blockbuster film perfected.

Best Comedy: Get Him to the Greek

Ok, here's where some might disagree with me (if they haven't already). However, it's my belief that Best Comedy movie should mainly be based on which movie was the funniest. Granted, there were movies I liked better overall that fall into the comedy category (Scott Pilgrim), but on the laugh scale they didn't touch Get Him to the Greek. Russell Brand is just hilarious. And his part as the typical rock star was great and hilarious. Even "P Diddy" (who I hate) had me cracking up during this movie. For me, it really was the funniest movie of the year.

Best Animated Movie: How to Train Your Dragon

Yep, I'm doing it. I'm kicking Pixar to the curb this year and letting someone else have Best Animated prize. Granted, I really enjoyed Toy Story 3, but for me How to Train Your Dragon was just the better movie and was more fun. It was cute, funny, inspiring in its own way and refreshing. I really enjoyed the movie. How to Train Your Dragon was one of those that had heart and depth and was really beautiful (both story-wise and animation). One that truly appeals to both adults and kids alike.

Best Horror Movie: Paranormal Activity 2

I loved the first one and the sequel proves no different. Paranormal Activity has been something of a savior for the horror genre I believe. And part 2 makes it a saving grace for Hollywood as the franchise goes mainstream. With good pacing and 'storytelling', Paranormal Activity 2, like its predecessor, brings the art of tension and suspense back to a seemingly hollowed out genre. It does a great job of really getting into your imagination and letting it run wild, in turn terrorizing yourself. Really a refreshing movie in the genre, I can't wait for part 3 this fall.

Best Thriller: The Town

Yes, I realize Black Swan is a thriller, and I absolutely agree that it's the better movie. However, like the comedy movie, I feel the Best Thriller movie should be judged pretty much solely on the "thrill" aspect. And while Black Swan did engulf me and keep in thrilled, The Town pulled that aspect off a bit better. Maybe because the action of it catered to that, I don't know. However, The Town just had me really on the edge of my seat from start to finish pretty much. The action was good, the movie was so intense and the whole of it just never let up once it took off running, that I couldn't help but be enthralled as I went on that thrill ride.

Best Docudrama: The Social Network

Social Networking has been spreading like wildfire in the past years, so it comes as no surprise that it would eventually become the basis of a film. The Social Network isn't just any film though. Becoming one of the most talked about movies of the year and making a real movie to be movie of the year, the movie is a great all-around film that everybody should see. And it might be one of the most significant films of modern day (that or its counterpart 'Catfish').

Best Indie Film: Buried

Another thriller that just keeps you enthralled throughout (yes it seems I have a thing for thriller type movies). With such a minimal set and minimal story and cast, Buried just seems like it's set to disappoint. Despite all these risks though it manages to succeed and become a very thrilling and captivating movie, with Reynolds carrying it well.

Best Fight: Zero-Gravity Hallway Fight - Inception

The visuals and special effects was just one facet of what made Inception so awesome for me. And this fight scene was one of those that stood out above the rest. Creative, cool to watch, action-packed, it really was just a really fun fight and pretty awesome.

Tearjerker of the Year: Toy Story 3

Did I personally cry? No. However, Toy Story 3 I feel is the movie of the year that will most likely make someone cry. Maybe it's the connection after having grown up with the series. Maybe it's just the depth of emotion created in some scenes that hit home for most people in a real-life way. Whatever it is, Toy Story 3 is sure to get the waterworks running for quite a few people. With scenes like the incinerator scene and Andy's final time with the toys (especially when he realizes Woody is in there and he ends up parting with the toy that started it all), Toy Story 3 definitely has its moments that truly tug on those heart-strings.

Best On-Screen Couple: Ryan Gosling and Michelle Williams - Blue Valentine

Both of these actors are some of the better young actors around today (Gosling being my choice for best actor under 30 even). They really show their worth here in this movie as well. Giving great and powerful performances the two shine on the screen together. The chemistry between them is absolutely marvelous and the genuine/real emotion they convey over the course of the movie provides for a good watch.

Best Villain: Gideon Graves (Jason Schwartzman) - Scott Pilgrim vs the World

Jason Schwartzman is just unconventionally hilarious most every time I see him. His appearance in Scott Pilgrim was just icing on the cake for a very good movie. Classic Schwartzman provided humor and intelligence to the role, standing out as my favorite villain of a movie filled with villains.

Worst Movie of the Year: The Last Airbender

I'm not even going to say anything. Everybody knows it sucks. Shyamalan again proves, that despite his last movie (The Happening being horrible) that he can still outdo himself and make a surprisingly worse film than he ever has. The guy is spiraling out of control straight down the drain.

Most Overrated Movie of the Year: The Kids Are All Right

I'm sorry. It wasn't that good. The acting was decent. Mark Ruffalo was pretty much the saving grace of the movie. Other than that the movie was so pretentious and contrived and just flat out boring. Not nearly as good as people made it out to be (not even the performances). Wasn't funny or humorous at all. And the movie definitely does not deserve even being considered as a Best Film nominee.

Most Underrated Movie of the Year: Kick-Ass

Sure, the movie got decent reviews, even did moderately well in its opening weekend. However, I feel Kick-Ass was just underappreciated for the year. Quite frankly, the movie, well....kicked ass. In fact, it may go down as one of my Top 10 or 15 favorite movies of the year. It's one of the best comic book adaptations I've seen in a long while. For me, it was even better than it's competitorScott Pilgrim. A truly awesome and fun movie that should have been given more credit. Very entertaining and more people should give it a shot.

READ MORE - My 2010 Movie Awards

Interview With Machete Star Danny Trejo

The Danny Trejo Interview
(*Pre-Interview Note- Before starting the interview I tell Danny that I try to ask some different questions than he may be used to, to which he replies "that's cool, but if I don't like the questions..." and he picks up a knife on the table we were sitting at and makes stabbing gestures towards me. It was definitely done in a humorous way, but let's be serious, this is Danny Trejo!!!! Even when he's being funny he's scary!)

TIS: After 25 years in the business, you're still a completely humble guy. What do you attribute this too?

DT: I think it's where I came from and the people I keep around me now. If you look at the people in Hollywood who are having trouble, they almost always have special interest people around them who are only making money from them, and don't give a shit what they're doing as long as they are still working. People like Paris, Lindsay & Tom Seizmore... but my friends, they don't give a fuck. They'll tell me "Fuck you, don't be an asshole". They're just straight up. I've got, hmm, I don't want to say real gangsters around me, but I've got people who've had lives, you know? My friends Craig, Mario & Max, they're all ex-convicts, so if I get bitchy (laughing), they'll say "Fuck you, were you that way in the joint?" So it was like having this life before I got into the movies which helped me understand that not everyone is supposed to get me a cappuccino, like they do on a movie set. People in this business honestly believe people are supposed to get them a cappuccino, and they often have no respect or manors. On a movie set things are geared to make you think you're really the shit and everything depends on you... it's all about you. The reality though, is that the movie business is a "we" business, not an "I" business. So I don't give a fuck what kind of star you are, you need to realize that that extra, or that boom mic operator is helping your movie.

That's what I find funny about Robert Rodriguez's movie. He calls me the lead in Machete and I'm like, what the fuck? We've got Robert DeNiro, the lead-iest man in the world, Jessica Alba, the lead-iest lady, Michelle Rodriguez and Lindsay. Lindsay was a sweetheart on the set, the problem is that she grew up in this business, so she really believes everyone is supposed to do the same thing when she is in the streets, as when she's on a movie sey and that's not how it is. Shit, the paparazzi love her because they know their going to get a finger and sell that picture for a thousand dollars. Michelle Rodriguez, same thing. So leading man my motherfuckin ass. I'll still run and get a cup of coffee for DeNiro if he asks me.

TIS: That wasn't you're first time working with DeNiro right?

DT: Right, I did Heat with him and he was totally cool then too. We treated each other with nothing but respect. You get what you put out.

TIS: You may be the most candid actor in Hollywood. The documentary Champion, which chronicles your life, goes in-depth about your rather colorful past (Danny interjects- "haha, San Quentin is colorful), covering your criminal history, drug addiction, and gang affiliation etc. It then goes on however to talk about your conviction to helping others through speaking engagements at penitentiaries and juvenile halls. Can you tell me about the importance of that in your life?

DT: Absolutely, you have to do that. Acting is just a job. I'm exactly the same as that lady bringing us coffee, and I have to remember that. My real job is helping others and you don't get paid for that. Again, if you look at the people in Hollywood who are heavy partiers, they're selfish, self-centered and egotistical. This business is made to destroy you. I've had trouble with stars before when doing karate movies and shit because all of the sudden they think they're bad asses and are like "hey motherfucker, I grew up on the streets" and I'm like yeah, but two Broadway shows a week doesn't count, bitch(laughter). That was pretty good huh?

TIS: You have me scared (laughter, sort of). There is a very powerful scene in that documentary where you visit your old prison cell in San Quentin. You're obviously very emotionally affected, but have trouble putting your experience into words. Now that you've had time to process it, can you tell me what your experience was like being back in that cell?

DT: I was a sad, angry, vicious person, and right now, I immediately start thinking about my kids, because anytime I remember that guy, I think about my kids. I never want my kids to see me like that. I never want my kids to see me willing to do whatever it takes to stay on top, like the decision to kill somebody being as easy as the flip of a coin, like just fucking kill him, you know? I never want to see that person. Like with arguments, the bottom line was always murder. Nobody gets killed when they're happy. It always starts with an argument, or a debt. It starts with a simple thing like a pack of cigarettes, but then the mind takes over and you start to think the guy is trying to make you look bad and all of the sudden you're willing to kill this guy over a simple argument, and that's why I won't argue anymore. I won't argue with anybody. People try to argue with me and my first thought is, am I willing to kill this person? Because that's the bottom line. So when people come at me they can't win, they think they can, but they can't. I'll just walk away.

The old me, that person, he's gone, and now I've got these three beautiful kids who are depending on me, though they're actually not kids anymore. My daughter Danielle is 20, and she's an actress. My son Gilbert is 22 and he's producing a movie called Skinny Dip, with Franky Latina. He's 22 and producing this fucking movie! I was 22 and sitting in San Quentin. So he's producing a movie and it's funny because he said hey dad, I got you a role, but you may have to audition, and I was like "you little shit". Then there's my big boy, Danny Boy, and he's into electronics and used to do the guidance systems for missiles, but now works for me. And so life couldn't be better. I couldn't fuck it up with an argument, you know?

TIS: So I hear you have a punk rocker in your family, and you're a self professed "punk rock dad"? Can you tell me a little about that?

DT: Haha, yeah. My son Gilbert used to have a band called The Dead Reagan Tour, which he and some friends started and were influenced by bands like Suicidal Tendencies.

TIS: Very cool.

DT: Yeah, so one day I drove onto the set of a movie I was working on and was bumping one of Gilbert's songs. Unbeknownst to me, the director and producer were really into punk, so they came over to my car and asked if I was listening to Suicidal Tendencies and I told them no, that it was my sons band. The name of the song he wrote was "No More Meds", which is about all the kids at school that the parents are putting on medication because they don't want to deal with them. So we were doing a movie with Tom Seizmore's daughter, and there was a scene where she was trying to escape from a hospital because someone was trying to kill her, and she was all medicated up, so they asked if they could use the song because it was a perfect fit, and it worked out great! Shit, I can't remember the name of the movie though.

But then a bunch of the guys in the band were getting loaded and my son wasn't into it so they broke up. It's funny because I was literally like the roadie. I used to rent vans for the guys to get to shows and finally said fuck it, I'll buy a bus. So I went and bought a Greyhound bus, problem was though, when I bought it, I put myself as the driver and that's how it showed up on the insurance, so all of the sudden I was their driver/roadie. My son used to joke that his band had the only roadie that people would ask for autographs. We had such a blast though. I loved watching my son on stage. He's really good. He's actually writing a song right now. That fucker's really smart. My Daughter is the same way. She's training right now with a girl named Tanya Fairfoot, who's a great little actress, and Danielle is just really doing her thing. She's awesome.

TIS: Very nice. So while we're on the topic of music, who are you listening to these days?

DT: I like R&B and oldies. I actually did a thing with Kid Frost who is a rapper, and I've done a lot with Baby Bash. I've got a singer and she's going into the studio to do a song with Scoop DeVille, who is Kid Frost's son. Her name is Alicia and she is going to be awesome. I also have a magazine coming out called My Mag, and I'm also opening up a restaurant called Trejo's in Huntington Beach, which will have awesome Mexican food. I also have a film coming out soon called Vengeance.

TIS: I saw something about that online. Who else is in it with you?

DT: Jason Mewes, Baby Bash, Techn9ne, Diamond Dallas Page, Rashad Evans, Houston Alexander and 50 Cent. Fucking everybody is in it.

TIS: Wow, quite the lineup. Can you tell me how you relax in your free time?

DT: I love old, vintage cars. I've got a 1936 Dodge Touring Sedan right now and there's only five of them registered in the world, and I absolutely love working on it. It's gorgeous. Big G's Automotive over in Inglewood is working on it for me right now. In fact, I forgot I need to ask them a question so I'm going to call them real quick.

TIS: Yeah, do your thing.

DT: (As he's calling he continues on...) I'm building a Machete bike which is fucking gorgeous man. I wish I could show you pictures of it. (He then connect's with Big G's Automotive...and we continue after he's done). Yeah so they've got the Dodge up on blocks right now. It's going to be like a Limo. Very shiny black, and it's going to be the Machete car. It's going to have rhinestone Machete's in the trunk and shit.

TIS: Nice, very bad ass.

DT: Yeah.

TIS: You hold the honor of having the most recognizable tattoo in the world, as voted by International Tattoo Magazine. Can you tell me about the origin of your chest piece and what criteria ITM used to deem it the most recognizable tattoo in the world?

DT: Ok, so I have a friend Harry "Super Jew" Ross. We've been a great friends since around fourteen years old. We used to rob the same places down in San Fernando Valley. We both ended up in San Quentin on different charges and started it there. He did the outline, but shortly after I got kicked out. It was like a scene from West Side Story, because there I was, leaving on the bus in chains, and Harry is standing outside yelling "don't let anybody touch it, I'll be there!" and I'm yelling back "Ok, I won't". I went over to Folsom and about three or four months later, he showed up and we did a little more. It was his first big piece. About three months or so after that, there was a big riot in Folsom and they shipped me over to Soledad. Harry was almost finished with it and we had another West Side Story moment as I was leaving, "let me finish it Danny", "ok, I will". And so he ended up in Soledad and we finished it up there. From there he went back and finished his time in Folsom.

TIS: That's an amazing story. And how did ITM decide it was the most recognizable tattoo in the world?

DT: Basically because of all the movies I've been in. That reminds me, do you remember the tattoo that George Clooney had in From Dusk Til Dawn?

TIS: Yeah, the one going down his neck?

DT: Yeah, well that was obviously fake, so I'd give him shit about it on the set and say, go ahead George, time to put it on" (laughter).

TIS: Nice, sticking it to him. Did you really rob a liquor store with a hand grenade?

DT: Hahaha, where did you get that?

TIS: You said it on your Champion documentary, unless I misheard you. *Note- I went back and re-watched the segment. Danny did say he robbed a liquor store with a hand grenade but in his defense, he was such a gangster, it has to be tough to keep all the thievin straight.

DT: We had different weapons. We definitely robbed them with semi-automatics and other various weapons, but I'm not sure about hand grenades. I know I was caught with a hand grenade before. But shit, I don't even remember. Who knows?

TIS: Any word on the Machete sequels, Machete Kills & Machete Kills again?

DT: Robert (Rodriguez) definitely wants to do them. The feedback, along with how well the movie has done vs. what it cost to make, makes it a given, you know? So it's just a matter of when we're going to do it, not if we're going to do it.

TIS: Cool, so we can look forward to it in the future.

DT: Yes. Robert said if it makes five dollars he'd do the sequel, and It's made a lot more than five dollars. I keep texting him "it's made a lot more than $5". We actually just finished doing the new Spy Kids movie.

TIS: Nice, when's that coming out?

DT: Probably around Christmas time. I also have a movie called Blacktino coming out, and one called Ranchero. I have Harold & Kumar's Christmas, the third installment in that series coming out too.

TIS: Wow, you are definitely a busy man. How many movies have you done this year?

DT: Oh man, I don't know. Maybe around 17.

TIS: Wow. So there is an amazing kill scene in Machete where you take 3 heads off at once? Did you have any input on that or other kill scenes?

DT: That particular scene was all Robert.

TIS: Did you have any input on any of the other scenes or was it all Robert?

DT: Basically, Robert and I will just talk. If you come up with an idea, and Robert likes it, he'll take it and when he's done, there's no way you're not going to be impressed. Robert is just so brilliant. He is easily one of the smartest guys I know. I've done nine movies with him and I just love the way he shoots. He knows what he wants, so he'll do it and get it. With other directors, they only have an idea of what they want, and then they've got to see it. So they'll do eight, nine, ten takes before they see it. But with Rodriguez, he comes from an editing background, so it doesn't take that long.

He has a book called Rebel Without A Crew and I see every director I've work with, who's read it, utilizing time. While we're shooting one scene, the other scene is already being set up. So as an actor, I don't have a lot of fucking time in the trailer doing nothing, you know? It's great because you keep the energy and momentum up, whereas with a lot of directors, you shoot and then you go back to the trailer and sit around on the phone or playing solitaire or whatever.

TIS: It's cool to hear that after seeing his movies. It definitely explains a lot. So in closing, I was wondering if you could tell me about your understanding of God and the significance of that in your life?

DT: Ok, listen... There is no significance of God in my life, God is my life. I would not be, without God. I am supposed to be dead. In 1968 I was in the hole going to the gas chamber, but there was a divine intervention. And in knowing that, for me to get upset, or be mad, or angry, is like slapping God in the face. So here I am. I didn't make a deal with God, because you can't make a deal with God. He put me here to talk to kids and to talk to drunks and help addicts. He gave me this "job" which makes it a lot easier to get through to people. Let's say you and I go on a speaking engagement, to a bunch of rowdy kids. When you go out there, the first thing you need to do is get their attention, which is basically impossible, and then you need to keep their attention which is also impossible because they have the attention span of a gnat. The most important thing to them is what is happening on Friday night or what girl their going to try and grab some tittie from, because that's just their whole world. So then you have to show them you're cool, which is impossible because our cool (sober people in recovery), is not their cool. The blessing that God has given me is that when I walk on campus, I've already got their attention.

TIS: That would be true.

DT: Yeah, you know what I mean? Maybe someone of George Clooney's stature would too, but they don't do this, they'd rather be saving motherfuckers in Somalia or Afghanistan or adopting babies from wherever the fuck. But right here, in the United States our kids are dying. They're shooting each other and killing each other, but hey, let's go save the kids in Somalia or some fucking place? This is the blessing that I've got It's the blessing that he's given me. It's inspiring to hear teachers and principals tell me that I've done in forty five minutes, what they've been trying to do an entire semester. When people clap for me I say, don't clap for me, clap for what God has done.

TIS: That's so admirable. Being in recovery myself, it means a lot to hear that!

DT: Yeah man. Thank you!

TIS: So anything in closing?

DT: Yeah, I'm going to be in Salt Lake City at The Bay doing "The Machete Massacre" at their Haunted House. It's the largest Haunted House in the country. I'm really excited about it! I'll be there Friday Oct 29th - Sun Oct 31st. And that's it. I've already mentioned everything else I have going on.

READ MORE - Interview With Machete Star Danny Trejo

Latino Baby Names - Discover Powerful, Meaningful, Melodic Names

Latino baby names are everywhere now, and you only have to look at some of the more popular baby name lists to know that the whole world loves them! Latino names are some of the most beautiful names from which to choose, and they are certainly pleasing to the ear. Is it any wonder that many parents love to give their children names from the Latino culture?

It's important to know what we mean when we are talking about Latino names. "Latino" is a word that refers to those who are of Spanish-speaking or Latin American heritage. Outside of the United States, you probably wouldn't hear the word "Latino" - you would hear a more direct ethnicity, such as Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, and so forth. So it's safe to say that a Latino baby name could have many meanings, depending on the country of origin and the history of that particular family.

One of the most common forms of naming for Latino children is the addition of a suffix to the father's name. For instance, "Fernandez" means "son of Fernando" - the vowel at the end of the father's name is dropped and the suffix is added to create a new name for the little one. Maiden names often wind up as middle names, with the addition of "de" before the husband's name to indicate "the wife of". Those maiden names can then be carried over to other generations, carrying forward a mother's name through the names of her offspring.

The most common Latino name for a baby girl is "Angel". Lovely, isn't it? The most common meaning of Angel is "one who protects". The most common Latino name for a baby boy is "Jose". The name Jose typically translates to "God". It also means "may God increase". Therefore, the two most common Latino names are also two of the most spiritual names out there!

Other popular Latino baby boy names include Juan, as well as Carlos, Diego and Xavier. Sophia, Maria, Isabel and Adriana round out the list for the girls. Latino names focus on the unusual places and things aspect as well, with names like Jacinto, which means "hyacinth" and Javiero, which means "born in January". Some of the more unusual Latino names include Montrel, meaning "mountain", and Cordero, which means "sheep".

There are also many famous Latino names. Emilio Estevez is a very popular name. Another one you might recognize is Desi Arnaz, of "I Love Lucy" fame. Musician and actress Jennifer Lopez has a famous Latino name, and her husband, Marc Anthony, is widely recognized.

Giving your child a Latino baby name is a decision that will make your child proud of his or her heritage. Their name will encourage them to find out more about where they are from and what their ancestors were like. Giving a powerful Latino name to your child is giving them the gift that lasts forever.

READ MORE - Latino Baby Names - Discover Powerful, Meaningful, Melodic Names

Seinfeld - The Best Television Comedy Ever

Over the years, there have been many funny, clever sitcoms that have been written for television. Some of the classic comedic TV shows include, "The Honeymooners", "M*A*S*H", "All in the Family", "The Dick Van Dyke Show", "The Carol Burnett Show", "Burns and Allen", "Friends", "Cheers", "Frazier", etc. By far, the one sitcom that stands well above this classic list is the "Seinfeld" sitcom.

The Seinfeld series produced 180 shows over a 9 year span, coming to a close in 1998. However, the show (reruns) continues to flourish in syndication, and continues to gain in popularity. The show was created by comedian Jerry Seinfeld and writer Larry David.

The premise of the show focuses on the daily lives and escapades of 4 neurotic misfits in New York City: Jerry, George Costanza (actor Jason Alexander), Cosmo Kramer (actor Michael Richards), and Elaine Benis (actress Julia Louis-Dreyfus). The interactions of these four main characters provided a comedic synergy, never seen before in a sitcom.

The popularity of this television sitcom has been unmatched to date. The overall viewership of each episode far exceeded any of its classic rivals. This, in itself, is a testament to the show's extreme popularity, and to it's overall ranking of Best Television Comedy ever.

Some other supporting evidence for this show's extreme popularity includes the following:

Idioms have crept into the language - Many Seinfeld-generated idioms, sayings, and mannerisms have crept into the English language, which is a direct function of the show's world-wide popularity.

Show about Nothing - Each show's plot was truly about a totally trivial topic. The show's popularity grew by large dimensions due to each episode's plot "about nothing".

Comedic Synergy - The show's 4 stars uniquely were able to bond and seamlessly integrate into a comedic force. The actors' and actresses' ability to play off one another, created an unparalleled comedic force, second to none.

Role Stereotypes - The stereotypes portrayed by each of the 4 stars of the show were uncanny. Jerry played the part of the successful playboy, George played the part of the perverbial loser, Kramer played the part of the eccentric neighbor, and Elaine played the part of the sophisticated, yet neurotic former girlfriend.

Syndication - The show's tremendous success in syndication is testimony to the show's phenomenal popularity and "cult-like" following.

Paraphernalia - The show continues to generate revenue from assorted Seinfeld "accessories" including DVD collections, books, posters, and other various items.

Trivia - The show's popularity has resulted in many Seinfeld trivia contests and tests being born. Trivia from the show is invariably discussed at parties all over America.

Clearly, the above evidence adds credence to the show deserving the "Best Television Comedy Ever" accolade. We may never again see a show produced that has the same level of comedic value as Seinfeld.

Douglas Hayman, President of Expert Software Systems, is a database expert, web designer, and comedy aficionado, who has developed numerous informational websites, including:

READ MORE - Seinfeld - The Best Television Comedy Ever

Fun Facts About South America

DID YOU KNOWN THAT...

Brazil has many famous actresses, some of them are: Gloria Pires, Fernanda Montenegro, Florionda Bolkan, Sonia Braga, Regina Duarte, Vera Fischer, Xuxa, and Bruna Lombardi.

DID YOU KNOWN THAT...

Miss Universe pageant 1982 was held in Lima, Peru, where Karen Diane Baldwin of Canada won. The judges were: Cecely Tyson ( actress), Mario Vargas Llosa (writer), Ron Duguay (sportsman), Franco Nero (actor), Carole Bouquet (actress), Dong Kingman (painter), Ira von Furstenberg (princess), David Coperfield (illusionist), David Merrick (theatrical producer), and Gladys Zender (Miss Peru and Miss Universe 1957).

DID YOU KNOWN THAT...

Quito, Ecuador´s capital, is a city which reflects beautiful colonial architecture. It is surrounded by big mountains.

DID YOU KNOWN THAT...

"Evita" a film by British director Alan William Parker was inspired in the life of Maria Eva Duarte de Peron, who was first lady of Argentina in the past century.

DID YOU KNOWN THAT...

Oswaldo Guayasamin was one of the best painters in South America.He was born on July 6, 1919, in Quito, Ecuador.

DID YOU KNOWN THAT...

Colombia hosted the Pan American Games (1971).

DID YOU KNOWN THAT...

Gabriel Jose Garcia Marquez is one of the best writers in South America. He was born on March 6, 1928, in Aracataca, Magdalena,Colombia.Gabriel Garcia Marquez won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1982.

DID YOU KNOWN THAT...

Rosalia Arteaga Serrano de Fernandez de Cordova had an ephemeral government. She became Ecuador´s first female head of state for only two days in 1997.

DID YOU KNOWN THAT...

Brazil has had many famous athletes in the 20th century: Joao Carlos de Oliveira (track and field), Ana Mozer (volleyball), Edson Arantes do Nacimento (soccer), Djan Madruga (swimming), Maria Esther Bueno (tennis), Marcelo Ferreira (sailing), Hortencia Marcari Oliva (basketball),Gustavo Borges (swimming), Robson Caetano da Silva(track and field), Adhemar Ferreira (track and field), Marcia Fu Cunha (volleyball), Oscar Schmidt (basketball), Marcelo Negrao (volleyball), Joaquin Cruz (track and field), and Rogerio Sampaio (judo).

DID YOU KNOWN THAT...

UNESCO has declared Noel Kempff Mercado National Park (Bolivia), Rapa Nui National Park (Chile), Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary (Colombia), Galapagos Islands (Ecuador), Central Suriname Nature Reserve (Suriname) and Jesuit Missions of La Santisima Trinidad de Parana and Jesus de Tavarange (Paraguay) World Heritages Sites.

DID YOU KNOWN THAT...

The Colombian people have two idols: Shakira (singer) and Carlos Vives (singer)...

Alejandro Guevara Onofre: He is a freelance writer.Alejandro is of Italian, African and Peruvian ancestry.He´ve studied political science and journalism.He has published more than seventy-five research paper in English, and more than twenty in Spanish, concerning the world issues, olympic sports, countries, and tourism. His next essay is called "The Dictator and Alicia Alonso".He is an expert on foreign affairs. Futhermore, Alejandro is the first author who has published a world-book encyclopedia in Latina America.

He admires Frida Kahlo (Mexican painter), Hillary Clinton (ex-First Lady of the USA), and Jimmy Carter (former President of the USA). His favorite film is "Gorillas in the Mist".Some of his favorite books are “The Return of Eva Peron and the Killings in Trinidad” (by V.S.Naipaul), "Las Mujeres de los Dictadores" (by Juan Gasparini) and “Murder of a Gentle Land” (by John Barron and Anthony Paul).His personal motto is "The future is for those people who believe in the beauty o f their dreams" by Eleanor Roosevelt.

READ MORE - Fun Facts About South America

The Colorful Holi Does Not Spare Bollywood

Surprisingly, God has given us some special day to celebrate. India is popular for its expensive festivals. Even Diwali is celebrated in United States of America. The Indian people in America do celebrate the festival of Holi. There are many religious organization in America by Indian Hindu people those celebrate every festival. The same happens even in United Kingdom. The bollywood people are quite popular for playing color on the occasion of holi festival. Let alone bollywood, even the people from indian natioanal capital are seen playing the gigantic color festival. Sonia Gandhi, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Lalkrishna Advani are popular for playing colors on the day of holi.

Now we are going to have a discussion as to the bollywood stars, how they feel and how they play colors on the occasion of sacred festival of holi. We have the following people for their as for the holi.

Deepikan Padukone
The bollywood's most wanted heroine in these days is Deepika Padukone. She believes in playing colors on the occasion of holi. Unfortunately, this year she avoided playing holi as there was shooting of bollywood movies just next day to holi. So she tells of her inability of playing colors. However, she retrospects the bygone days of holi. Deepika tells playing holi is really a fun and she used to play with her school friends in her building. The bollywood sirenic heroin was extremly cautious about her hair and skin while playing colors in her teens.

Esha Deol
Esha says her mischief when she was a kid. The bollywood actress Esha expresses herself about being wild. Even Esha Deol has thrown eggs to people. Once she had to go to police station after throwing eggs on a police. She really goes wild on the occasion of holi. She enjoys it to the fullest. Though I have been sober in these days I have not left my eagerness to play holi, says Esha. Our first ritual is to put colors on lord krishna then play colors. Esha also takes care of her hair and skin on the occasion of holi by using coconut oil

Puja Bedi
Though the occasion of holi is extremely funny, enjoying, entertaining, colorful and crazy but extreme exposure to sun and colors of chemical is harmful to the skin. Says the bollywood heroin Puja Bedi. I take preventive measures while playing holi. The bollywood heroine expresses how she takes care of her skin by putting coconut oil and post holi she scrubs her skin to remove the color on the body. I put a thin film of coconut oil on my body which helps to remove colors on my body. Says bollywood actress Puja Bedi.

Anuska Sharma
Anuska Sharma is an enthusiastic holi player as she finds it extremely colorful, energetic and creates friendly attitude in spite of jealousy and enemity. She enjoys fully, says bollywodod actor. However, she advises to be extremely careful about the harmful Gulal, baloons and pichkari that people use on the occasion of holi. Anuska is of opinion to use coconut oil on the scalp thoroughly to avoid damage to the hair and skin. After playing holi one should clean the hair and skin thouroghly which is the first and foremost duty of everyone. This is the short stories of the stars of the bollywood movies those who are having flair for playing colors.

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The Funniest Headstones You'll Ever See

How many times have you walked through a cemetery and noticed the writing on the headstones? In my profession, I am constantly looking for names of the famous burials so I have come across wonderfully creative epitaphs on my travels. Not just the famous can be clever in death but the obscure are equally as enigmatic in their final words. As I strolled through Westwood Memorial park, famous for the burial of Marilyn Monroe, I found the grave of funny man Rodney Dangerfield.

If you look at his stone, just beneath his name reads "There goes the neighborhood". A neighbor of Mr. Dangerfield is the great television host, Merv Griffin. His famous line "I will be right back after these messages" was changed to "I will NOT be right back after these messages." Bringing a smile to the face of any person old enough to remember the Merv Griffin show. Just behind these famous folks is the grave of Mr. Jack Lemmon. One of the greatest stars in Hollywood, this great man had etched in stone "Jack Lemmon In..." a reference to the title pages show on the silver screen before every movie he played a role in. The amazingly talented writer/producer Billy Wilder is spending eternal rest near Jack Lemmon with his epitaph reading "I'm a writer, but then nobody's perfect." This was actually a final jeopardy question in 2008.

At the famous Hollywood Forever cemetery, I found the crypt of the great actress Joan Hackett. Her bronze name plate reads "Go away, I'm sleeping." Apparently, she would utter these words from behind her dressing room door when filming when she needed privacy. No one will forget the amazingly talented Mel Blanc, voice of Bugs Bunny and hundreds of character voices for the Warner Bros. His stately grey granite stone reads the famous line by Porky Pig "That's all folks." At Forest Lawn Glendale is the gold niche plate of actor Ed Wynn, voice of the Mad Hatter in "Alice in Wonderland" reads "Dear God, Thanks." At this same cemetery, A good friend pointed me to a stone that will forever be a puzzle to all who see it.

A simple bronze stone with "Factory Reject" emblazoned on the front. No name or dates just these words. Someday I would love to know the story behind this memorial. I have come across several funny stones gracious people have posted on the internet, such as the family that honored their loved one with a parking meter on the stone reading "Expired." last but not least, the stone of unknown Micah Green reading "I see dumb people.

READ MORE - The Funniest Headstones You'll Ever See

Sex Advice For Women - 10 Hot Easy Tips to Achieve Perfect Sexual Health!

Are you looking for proven effective sex advice for woman? Wondering what are the best ways to keep up your sexual health? There are many magazines or books for women out there that help and tell you how to be healthy through the use of exercise and diet.

There are diets available for just about any health issue. How often, however, do you see anything that helps you maintain sexual health? Let's look at ten better sex guidance for women to remain sexy and keep up sexual activity.

Sex Advice No: 1.

So what is the first and foremost sex commendation for woman? Utilize fantasy with your partner in order to keep the sex drive alive! Indulge in fantasy even if you don't have a sexual partner. Women who stop thinking about sex have trouble starting again.

Sex Advice No: 2.

Pleasure yourself in order to stay in shape sexually. Many women would have a better chance of having an orgasm with her partner if she practices more often by herself. Don't forget woman sexual guidance books and sexual toys.

Sex Advice No: 3.

Make sure your method of birth control fits with your style. If you're having sex frequently, condoms might not be your best choice as they have a higher failure rate. Talk to your doctor about your birth control options for better sex recommendation.

Sex Advice No: 4.

Do Kegel exercises. These strengthen the pelvic floor, which help your bladder stay up and your uterus and vagina to be stronger. It can also help a woman have a better and stronger orgasm.

Sex Advice No: 5.

Use glycerin-free lubricant. Glycerin is too much like sugar and breeds yeast infections in women who are prone to them. You can find them in the drug store. Just read the label.

Sex Advice No: 6.

One of the most essential recommendation for woman is to... watch female hormones. Hormones can be over- or under-used by women, especially around menopause. You should use the lowest dose of hemorrhoids that control the uncomfortable symptoms of menopause.

Use it also for the briefest period of time. Hormones may have positive cognitive benefits but if used in large quantity and for too long, you can cause more harm than good.

Sex Advice No: 7.

Remain healthy. There are many chronic illnesses that have sexual side effects, including women with diabetes, who can get nerve damage or vaginal dryness. Such women can have problems getting an orgasm due to the nerve damage. You can also stay sexy longer if you keep exercising and keep your weight down.

Sex Advice No: 8.

Practice experimentation is a vital sex suggestion for women who want greater sex fulfillment experience. Try using an ice cube on your lover or let your lover drink wine directly from your lips. Have sex blindfolded or tie your lover up with crepe paper. Buy a costume on the internet that is sexy and fun.

Sex Advice No: 9.

Don't forget about safe sex. Things like genital herpes or Chlamydia can really put a damper on the passion of a weekend with your lover. Use condoms every time you have sex.

Sex Advice No: 10.

Take care of your genitals. Be wary of anything that could cause harm, such as the G spot shots some doctors' recommend. They are unnecessary and aren't proven. Instead read a woman sexual recommendation book about the g spot and try to stimulate in manually.

Lastly, the critical sex advice for woman is to make sure keeping up your sexual health is as important so long as you want to have a good and active sex life for a long time. Sex is a great gift you'll want to keep for years to come, if you know the ways to take care of yourself.

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Woman's Day Magazine

Woman's Day Magazine is focused on the average woman. This magazine was created for the everyday woman. It was made for the mid western mom who spends most days driving kids to school and sporting events who is always thinking about what to make for dinner that night, not the single executive who has never actually cooked anything before and whose biggest concern is how to get the new Gucci bag that is hot this season. Woman's Day magazine may not have the latest fashions or the biggest celebrity news, but it does cover the issues that the average woman is dealing with trying to balance a career, a home and a family.

Features in the Magazine

Woman's Day is published each month. It can be found at grocery stores, drug stores, discount stores and some department stores. The cover usually features food made from a recipe found inside that issue. The main features in the magazine include cleaning tips, health news, weight loss news, recipes and fast dinner ideas, makeup tips and budget friendly tips and articles. Most of the articles and sections of the magazine are focused on helping women to make their lives easier. Tips include things like how to clean your house in 15 minutes and dinner ideas on a budget.

History

Woman's Day was first published in 1931. It was made exclusively for the A$P grocery stores and was designed to provide meal ideas for customers. At this time it was also free. IN 1937 the magazine expanded to include crafts, home décor, health and childcare information and cost 2 cents. It was still only sold at A&P grocery stores. In 1958 A&P sold the magazine to Fawcett Publications. When Fawcett was sold in 1977 to CBS the magazine division was sold to Diamandis Communications. In 1988 the magazine again switched ownership becoming part of Hachette Filipachhi Medias.

The magazine now has a circulation of about 3,800,000 and publishes 17 issues a year. You can pick up a copy at various retail outlets now, not just A&P grocery stores. The magazine also has a website that publishes information from the magazine and extras for visitors. The website is reported to have almost as many visitors as the magazine has subscribers.

Woman's Day has continued to be a magazine for the housewife. It helps women by providing everyday tips on how to juggle everything in their life. The tips and articles in the magazine are designed to help make a woman's life easier. The magazine has not strayed at all from the original design, still offering great meal ideas and dinner solutions. This magazine is a staple that many women buy every month. It has never tried to compete with high end magazines and is offered at an affordable price. It is a real magazine for women who have more to worry about than what celebrities are doing and what the latest styles are. It is for the everyday gal who is just trying to raise a family and keep her home in order.

READ MORE - Woman's Day Magazine

Sex Pills For Women

Though men have a lot of male enhancement products to get over various sexual problems, women have finally got their due only now. Sex pills for women that are 100% natural or organic are a great way to boost sex drive and overcome other sexual problems. Such pills have done for women what Viagra has done for men.

No wonder, they are really "HOT" among women who are buying them in huge numbers to enjoy blissful and more satisfying sex.

Such pills are made with all natural ingredients such as:

ginkgo biloba
epimedium sagittatum
hops extract
tribulus terrestris
cayenne
niacin
mucuna pruriens
melatonin
DHEA etc.,
Ginkgo biloba is great for increasing blood circulation to the genitals. Over the past 30 years more than 300 studies have been done to study the properties of this herb. Such studies indicate that ginkgo can help boost sex drive in both men and women largely because it increase blood flow to the genitals. Not only this, it also helps increase nitric oxide level in blood which ensure expansion of blood vessels resulting in increased blood flow.

Epimedium sagittatum or horny goat weed is a great sexual stimulant and help increase sexual urge.

Hops extract is great for increasing the production of estrogen in women. Estrogen levels in your body drop post menopause and this not only affects your libido but also leads to vaginal dryness. Hops extracts increases estrogen levels in your body without the side effects of hormone replacement therapy. This not only helps you get over vaginal dryness but also helps relieve menopause symptoms.

Cayenne also helps boost blood flow to the genitals. This is great for enhancing libido in women.

Niacin not only increases blood flow to the genitals but also helps increase sensations in the genitals. In other words, it increases clitoral sensitivity so as to increase response to sexual stimulation.

Mucuna Pruriens help increase dopamine which is the feel good chemical in your body. It has a significant effect on your libido or sex drive.

Tribulus Terrestris acts as a great sexual stimulant.

One of the most important advantages of such supplements is that they do not have any sort of side effects. Top notch supplements are clinically approved and recommended by doctors as well. They do not even interfere with any other medication that you might be taking such as birth control pills etc.,

No wonder, they are really "hot" among women seeking sexual enhancement. So, If You Want to Boost Your Libido Check out the Best Sex Pills for Women Ever.

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