From T.O. to OCHOCINCO!

Two of NFL's most famed players is Chad Ochocinco and Terrell Owens. The two are highly recognized for their football careers, but has also to over center stage with their personalities and of field actions. Now that the two are on the same team they no longer have to worry about competing against one another on field, but the two friends are now competing prime time. Both athletes are featured on reality based T.V shows, where they are the center of attention.

Caylan Davis reported that VH1's latest ratings reported that Ochocinco is stealing the scene with a total of 844,000 viewers compared to Terrell Owens 733,00 viewers (2010). While this may not seem like a huge number, for two men that seem to love competition this is a nice head start. However the t.v. shows are totally different as far as the types of shows they are. While T.O. allows fans to get a glimpse of his life on the off season, Chad has decided, like many others before him, that it is time for him to look for love. Of course what better way for Mr. Ochocinco to do this then star in a show on VH1, where he has 85 women to choose from.

While most will enjoy the bold and commanding presence of Terrell Owens, others prefer to watch the always surprising Chad. However there's also those few individuals who are tired of the non stop reality shows, and may simply choose to ignore both shows. I personally really like Chad Ochocino, he's a great player and has brought a difference presence on the field. However T.O show is more about him and his personal life, when he is not on the field. There has been so many dating shows over the last few years, that seeing a 100 women compete for one guy, is just not that interesting anymore. So, in all one can assume that T.O. still has a a little more appeal as far as the shows. The real competition will start when these two are on the field together.

Reference

Retrieved from http://www.nesn.com/2010/07/terrell-owens-plays-second-fiddle-to-chad-ochocinco-in-reality-show-ratings.html

Stephen King: King of Movies and Books?

Stephen King Has accumulated many fans over the years. Some appreciate his books,that have made it to the big screens. However there are many who feel that his movies do not accurately represent the books and he has not progressed as time has. This is a issue that true fans can identify with.

According to Mark Brown, Stephen King has been able to overcome the general classification, that many writers and directors have conform to. However some fell he may need a change. A large amount of individuals feel the adaptations of the books are disappointing. Although one can ask themselves is this because of the types of movies we have come accustom to, or is because they simply do not have the same affect on the audience as the books do?

For instance, the movie "Dreamcatcher" , could not be explained in detail, as it is in the book. For someone who has read the book, this was somewhat of a disappointment. While the overall concept of the movie was displayed, it lacked some of the background information; which gave the story substance and clarification.

Again, I feel there's need to ask if this is because of the violence and graphics, that we have began to expect whenever we watch in films and games. King seems to take a more classic approach, when turning his books to films. The movies represent classic horror films, instead of the gory movies that are produced today. His films, which may be lacking in one department are a representation of true horror/suspense films.

Some of King's most recognized work is, "Carrie", "Creepshow 1 & 2", "Stand by Me", "The Green Mile", and of course " The Shining". All of the films represent thrilling yet classic approach to horror films. There is some gore in these films, but for the most part they tell their stories, without the aide of special effects and an obscene amount of blood (excluding Carrie).

Honesty I feel that for the most parts Stephen Kings movies are accurate reflections of his books. Of course if one takes into consideration that a vast majority of Kings novels are lengthy, then they'll realize that it is impossible for them to match their movie counter parts perfectly. Over the years I feel that some of his films are lacking in certain ways, but this can be said about lots of movies, regardless if they are from books or not. Understanding that Stephen King is not the typically writer or producer, is the first step to understanding his movies. Most writers may not take such a large role in producing their movies, however King has had a great presence in the production of all his films. Some say this is his downfall, while others may feel this is why he has lasted so long, and continues to be one of the greatness writers around.

References

(2010).Stephen King on the big screen. Journal of Popular Culture, 43(4), 901-903. doi.10.1111/j.1540-5931.2010.00776_2.x.

Glee!!!

Glee is one of the latest television series. It revolves around a high school "Glee" club and other highschool inhabitants, including the outspoken and sometimes harsh gym teacher. Throughout the the day the students and staff find ways to express their feelings musically. Some like to think as "Glee" being the lunchroom version of "The Breakfast Club".

Despite the comparisons that some try to make concerning other show or movies, "Glee" is truly one of a kind. The show has experiences lots of success since it first aired. Focusing on the star quarter back, who loves to sing, and the group of misfit individuals who make up the glee club, this show takes what seems like the same ol scenario, and turns it into a unique, entertaining, and all around hilarious show.

While some fans feel the show did not live up to the expectations set after the pilot aired, and has took a down turn like so many other shows before it. Some fell after the first few episodes it could no longer live up to the hype it originally created. However most would probably disagree. Most fans rave how this show is one of the best on air at this time, and has become an instant favorite.

The colorful characters have given fans something new and interesting to look forward too each week. With the comedy, music, and dancing this show has given viewers something to look forward to each. The hilarious plots gives T.V. a whole new look and feel.

References

tv.com.(n.d.). Glee. Retrieved July 25, 2010 from http://www.tv.com/glee/show75988/summary.html

Stanley, A. (2009, May 18). Motley crew of school misfits Sings, and annoys the cool kids. The New York. Retrieved from http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/19/arts/television/19glee.html?_r=1

Avatar: The Last Airbender

"Avatar: The Last Airbender" was a popular cartoon that airs on Nickelodeon. This summer M. Night Shyamalan introduced a movie based on the cartoon. This movie was anticipated, which may be part of the reason it has received so many negative reviews. However the reviews seem to be more based on the comparison of the cartoon and the movie.

One of the first complaints about the movie was the pronunciation of some of the character names. The cartoon consist of three main characters, " Aang, Katara, and Sokka". In the movie the directors, produced, and others decided to pronounced Aang's name based on Asian languages, however on the cartoon the name is "Americanized" and it is pronounced differently. To viewers who don't no much about the cartoon this would not seem like big deal. However to the fans and followers of the series, this was a disappointment.

To add to the disappointment the directors seem to focus more on the special effects and less on the picking the right actors and actresses. The actors in the movie seemed a bit out of placed at times, and not in touch with their characters. However this may also been because of some of the bad lines they were given. Either way the actors did not seem to fit their roles.

Also in the cartoon the main character "Aang" is silly and fun loving and only gets serious when need be. However in the movie "Aang" is consistently serious and doesn't seem to have much time for fun. However to be fair the directors, and or producers did fit a whole season of the cartoon into one movie, which may be why it's lacking. There's also the fact that in the movie Aang, Katara, and Sokka's friendship is not a big part. In the cartoon the three characters are extremely close, but you wouldn't be able to tell this from the movie. Fans also seem to be disappointed because of the race of the actors, and actresses used in the movie. However one must remember the "Airbender" is an American cartoon, that involves Asian cultures. The races of the characters is not as important as them staying true to the story line, and finding actors who can connect to their characters on another level.

Retrieved July 18, 2010 from http://thephoenix.com/boston/movies/104825-last-airbender/

Thank Me!

Aubrey Drake Graham is an upcoming rapper, who has gained many fans in a short amount of time. The music artist is only 23 years of age and is already said to be a legend, although he does typically shy away from that term. Drake became recognizable once he began making appearances with rapper Lil Wayne.

Drake recently released his album titled "Thank me Later" and according to reviews is inappropiately titled. Most people were probably expecting a similar album to mixes and collaborations that were released last year, however this album shifts into the thoughts of Drake. The artist choose to focus more how his life has change since he has become a "Mega Star".

Some fans may think the Drake has went main stream, leaving behind the fans that prefer a ruff, more hardcore sound, however some may simply see Drake for the poet and multi face talent that he truly is. Drake mixes a street roughness, with a little Kanye weirdnest to get the perfect sound. It results in a album that is smooth but ruff around the edges (Brock, 2010). While the album is very nice, there's a little less Drake then preferred. Typically Drake raps for a length of his songs, however on this particular album he has some of the industries biggest stars, such as Jay- Z. This leaves less Drake and more guess appearances.

Most fans feel that the album is fantastic. If your a fan of good music, then you will probably feel the same. However if your an individual who prefers hardcore rap all the time, then this is not the album for you. Drake's tone on the album is laid back and matter fact, showing his fans that he is not cut from the same clothe as other rappers. He is unique and one of a kind.

References

Retrieved from ww.hiphopwired.com/2010/06/16/drake-thank-me-later-review/

Icons What Do They Mean To You

An Icon is simply a person or thing, that is uncritically admired by many. The icons I choose are "Betty Boop", "The Apollo Theater", and "Star Search. Betty Boop was introduced to the world in 1930 and was a cartoon that was, and still is loved by many. The Apollo Theater was built in 1914 in Harlem and is known for it's "Amateur Night"; which was introduce in 1934. Lastly, Star Search was released in September of 1983 and was hosted by Ed McMahon.

I choose these particular Icons, because they have all been around for many years and continue to be remembered and loved by, so many people. Betty Boop still has a huge fan base today, which is 80 years after she was introduced. Also you can still walk in many stores today and find "Boop" accessories. The Apollo Theater was chosen, because of the success it has contributed to many comedians and music artist. Star Search was a huge hit in the 80's and also has help create some of the artist we love today.

To me "Betty Boop" is an example of how the longevity that things can have. I can remember this cartoon from years ago, and when I first viewed it, it had already been out for a long time. To me the Apollo Theater means family. I can remember watching their amateur night for years with my whole family. It became a weekly ritual for us kids to stay up late to watch the show. Star Search means many things to me. I can remember wanting to go on the show as a child. The show represented dreams being fulfilled.

References

http://www.apollotheater.org/

http://www.imbd.com/

http://justbettyboop.net/

Twi- Epidemic

For this week's analysis I chose to write about the current "Twilight" saga. Over the last year or so the Twilight books and movies have gained momentum and become one of the biggest popular culture influences today. Women of all ages have become "Twi- Fans" and maybe even a few men.

Teenagers and their moms are dying to become one of the undead. Robert Pattison has made being a vampire one of the most romantic, sexy, and mystifying things possible. The character he plays (Edward Cullen) has made older women relive the romances they once dreamed about, while teenagers are being introduced to their first love triangle (vampire, werewolf, human). His better half in the saga is Bella Swan, a young woman who once felt like the definition of plain and awkward, is transformed to the obsession of every male she comes in contact with Who would have knew that moving to one of the dreariest places in the world would turn the " ugly Duckling into a Swan".

There have been a total of three out of the four books produced into movies. The last es released is "Eclipse". According to MTV.com since it's release on Wednesday June 30th the movie has grossed over 161 million. Of Course compared to the obscene amount that will be made from the bookmarks , t-shirts, backpacks, cupcakes, and every other item you want with a Twilight logo this is change.

One can only imagine what fans will do why they wait for the 2011 release of "Breaking Dawn". Will they denounce both Jacob and Edward and create team Charlie. There no sure way to tell, so I guess we will just have to wait.

Popular culture to me is every outside influence surrounding us, which stems from the media,celebrities, artist, magazines, books, and those individuals who we come in contact with, that leaves a last impression. Understanding popular culture plays a important role in my business life, because it has an impact on situations that occur and how customers respond. As for the future, getting a job in advertising will involve knowing what is going on with popular culture. Celebrities have a huge influence on consumer purchase, so staying up to date on current events will only make the job easier.

To me there's no better pop culture artifact, Michael Jackson's "Thriller". Both the song and the video was loved around the world. It became a defining moment in Michael's career and help sustain him millions of fans around the world. Even years later people still get excited when the record is heard, and people are still mimicking his dance moves.