pop-o-matic

Finally!

2008-07-30T09:00:00.000-04:00

After nearly three years on Blogger.com and for reasons which are well known to them, I've decided it's time to for a change and I'm taking the act to WordPress!

So please join me now at the New & Improved popOmatic

One More Day

2008-07-29T08:34:00.000-04:00

The something big for pop-o-matic that I have been hinting at is almost complete. I've got sweatshop full of minors working around the clock so that by the time you check in tomorrow (Wednesday) everything will be ready.

Until then, happy birthday NASA!

Mean Spirited Monday

2008-07-28T09:10:00.000-04:00

Every Monday morning I post a picture of a person, place or thing for you to comment on. Remember to have fun and be mean spirited with your comments.

This week, Heidi and Spencer. Let the meaness begin!

Man At Work Update

2008-07-25T12:26:00.001-04:00

After reading your comments to my earlier post, announcing something big in the works for pop-o-matic I figured I'd better give you a hint or risk disappointing you with the announcement.

Hint: You will never look at pop-o-matic the same way again.

Dead Or Alive? Louie Anderson

2008-07-25T08:59:00.000-04:00

The gist of this post is so simple and obvious that I would be surprised if someone else isn't already doing it. However, after ~~several days looking at internet porn~~ an extensive online search, I couldn't find anyone else who cares what you think.

The rules are simple, I post a picture and ask the question, Dead or Alive? then you answer.

This week, funny fat fellow, Louie Anderson. So what do you think, Dead or Alive?

Men At Work

2008-07-24T09:27:00.000-04:00

I've got something big in the works for pop-o-matic. Stay tuned for the official announcement coming any day now.

Rest In Peace Estelle Getty

2008-07-23T08:19:00.001-04:00

Estelle Getty. Star of television's Golden Girls and Golden Palace (which also starred Don Cheadle as a hotel manager, a role that led to his success in the film Hotel Ruwanda), and hit films like Stop Or My Mother Will Shoot.

You will be missed.

Trying To Get Ahead Or At Least Caught Up

2008-07-22T10:32:00.000-04:00

The only negative aspect of taking a nice long vacation is the first day back to work. Today is my second day after eight days of fun in the sun and I'm still trying to get caught up on all the work ~~I blew off~~ I missed.

How do the Europeans take a minimum of six weeks off a year and still manage to get anything done? I'm going to take a week off to think about that.

Back To Reality

2008-07-21T08:20:00.000-04:00

So, my vacation video blogging experiment never actually happened. This could be due to one (or all) of the following reasons:

1. I never took the video camera out of the case.
2. It was such an enjoyable get away that I didn't want to be reminded of reality.
3. I was too drunk to get it together.

In any event, I'm back. So what did I miss?

Mean Spirited Monday

2008-07-14T08:38:00.000-04:00

Every Monday morning I post a picture of a person, place or thing for you to comment on. Remember to have fun and be mean spirited with your comments.

This week, four lousy birds who get half of the beach to themselves because of the god damned environmentalists. Let the meaness begin!

Dead Or Alive?

2008-07-11T09:00:00.000-04:00

The gist of this post is so simple and obvious that I would be surprised if someone else isn't already doing it. However, after ~~a brief scan of my inbox~~ an extensive search, I couldn't find anyone else asking you, "Dead or Alive?

The rules are simple, I post a picture and ask the question, Dead or Alive? then you answer.

This week, beaver buster and everyone's fav mom from the 50's, Barbara Billingsley, AKA June Cleaver. So what do you think? Dead or Alive?

Summer Fun Week

2008-07-10T02:13:00.001-04:00

Yes, it's vacation time or as Seth likes to call it, "I like boobies and rainbows". We are hitting the road and you are coming with us. I'm gonna whip out the video camera and do my best to capture all the most memorable moments boiled down into easily watched snippits and frequently posted.

Starting Saturday, I'll be marooned on an island with some of your favorite bloggers, including Monkey Daemon, Kitty, and Seth. Also joining us will be Kelly.

I'll do my best to frequently post but as I plan to be too drunk to even remember what a USB plug is let alone where it goes, don't expect much.

The Clone Wars Are Coming!

2008-07-09T09:55:00.000-04:00

We are just a little more than a month away from the premier of Star Wars: The Clone Wars in theaters (August 15). This first-ever animated feature film from Lucasfilm Animation takes place between the second and third prequel movies and will show us more of the battles between the clone army, led by the Jedi, and the Separatists who are under the control of the dark side. We will see familiar heroes, including Obi Wan and Anakin, favorite villains, such as Count Dooku and General Grievous, all fighting along side of new characters never before seen in the Star Wars films.

And just when you think it's safe to go back to Coruscant, the second wave of Clone Wars will engulf you as Cartoon Network begins airing a whole new set of animated adventures this fall. The TV series will pick up where the animated film leaves off and you can expect more epic battles, awesome action,and plenty of Jedi mind tricks!

You Can't Make This Stuff Up

2008-07-08T09:20:00.000-04:00

I have no idea what show was on the TV when I turned it on but I managed to catch this little spippet before changing the channel:

"Heather Locklear got a much needed visit from her boyfriend, Jack Wagner, while she spends time in a an Arizona treatment facility for anxiety and depression."

Hello!? Heather Locklear and Jack Wagner are not only dating, but she is hiding out at Pity Me Pines! That's bad news for all the rest of the nut jobs being treated there because you know Eve Cleary is lurking around in her high school cheerleader uniform just waiting to blow it up.

I think we all know how this relationship is going to end. Heather and Jack will fake their own deaths and pay Thomas Calabro $1 million dollars to keep quiet about it. While the world mourns the deaths of Heather and Jack, the sexy duo will be strolling along a remote beach, hand in hand, listening to Closing Time by Semisonic.

Mean Spirited Monday

2008-07-07T09:45:00.001-04:00

Every Monday morning I post a picture of a person, place or thing for you to comment on. Remember to have fun and be mean spirited with your comments.This week, television personality, Tila Tequila. Let the meaness begin!

Dead Or Alive?

2008-07-04T07:16:00.000-04:00

What Do Me, Molly Ringwald, And Abigail Breslin Have In Common?

2008-07-01T09:05:00.000-04:00

... We were all on Live With Regis & Kelly yesterday. Ok, so only Molly Ringwald and Abigail Breslin were actually guests invited to sit down for an interview. My boss, the Toy Guy, was also a guest and he was there with a bucket full of cool outdoor water toys for the summer. If you were watching closely, which I'm sure you were, you saw me standing aloof in the background during one of the shots.

I know the question you are dyeing to ask me is where will I be appearing next. I'm currently working on a real scene stealer in which I jump up and down behind the local Albany "news" reporter on location at the site of a fire. If you aren't lucky enough to live in the Albany, NY area, you can head on over to Hometown Hangover and catch my riveting performance as the unloveable Tramp in Bango. Just click here and prepare to be blown away.

Mean Spirited Monday: Wii Edition

2008-06-30T09:00:00.000-04:00

Every Monday morning I post a picture of a person, place or thing for you to comment on. Remember to have fun and be mean spirited with your comments.

This week, Super Mario Galaxy boss, Kamella. Let the meaness begin!

Dead Or Alive? Slim Goodbody

2008-06-27T09:00:00.000-04:00

pop-o-matic Reviews ... I Survived a Japanese Game Show

2008-06-26T08:23:00.003-04:00

Critic's reviews have never influenced my decision to see or avoid something. Thumbs up or thumbs down, five stars, four apples, or ten rabbits - I don't care what someone I've never met thinks. The largest influencers of my viewing consumption are friends and fellow bloggers. In other words, you.

So here is my new review section in which, I'll share my thoughts on something and hope you chime in with your opinion in the comments section. Don't expect anything well thought-out or in depth from me. What you will get is whether I liked it or not.

As the country heads into Summer and the economy heads farther into the shitter, more people are scaling back their vacation plans. Fortunately, the networks aren't scaling back their new Summer programming and my favorite Summer show so far premiered earlier this week. I Survived a Japanese Game Show is an American reality show that premiered on ABC this past Tuesday. The show follows ten Americans, who leave the United States for Japan where they will compete in a Japanese game show. The winner will take home $250,000.

On Tuesday's show, the contestants arrived at LAX, where they thought they were about to take part on a typical reality show, one where someone ends up with a rose, a ring, or ring worm. They were picked up at the curb and immediately driven to the international gate and put on a plane to Tokyo. They barely had time to introduce themselves to one another when they were thrust onto the set of a rowdy and insane Japanese game show where they will compete against each other each week.

If your idea of entertainment is watching people willfully humiliate themselves in front of an audience for money, than this is the show for you. In other words, I like it! Check it out for yourself Tuesday nights on ABC.

Nerd Alert! Ice On Mars

2008-06-25T10:03:00.003-04:00

Its official! There is ice on Mars!

Last week, the Mars Phoenix Lander's Twitter feed contained the following juicy nugget:

"Are you ready to celebrate? Well, get ready: We have ICE!!!!! Yes, ICE, *WATER ICE* on Mars! w00t!!! Best day ever!!"

Who knew that robots had Twitter accounts?

Mean Spirited Monday

2008-06-23T09:00:00.000-04:00

Every Monday morning I post a picture of a person, place or thing for you to comment on. Remember to have fun and be mean spirited with your comments.

This week, Dina Lohan. Let the meaness begin!

Dead Or Alive?

2008-06-20T09:00:00.000-04:00

The gist of this post is so simple and obvious that I would be surprised if someone else isn't already doing it. However, after ~~a brief scan of my inbox~~ an extensive search, I couldn't find anyone else asking you, "Dead or Alive?"

The rules are simple, I post a picture and ask the question, Dead or Alive? then you answer.

This week, drummer and vocalist Zac Hanson (the youngest of the MMM Bop band). So what do you think, Dead or Alive?

Super Happy Terrific Products: Summer Drinking

2008-06-18T10:29:00.003-04:00

It's that time of year again, when we start dreaming of drinking on the beach rather than drinking in front of the TV. Once again, flip flop fabricators, Reef, have introduced another booze-minded article of beach footwear. Last year the company gave us the Flask-Flop and this year, for all of us beer drinkers, Reef introduces the Fanning sandal - a flip flop with a bottle opener in the sole.

Pretty ingenious but at $60, I'll stick with the old fashioned hand-held opener.

Whoa!

2008-06-17T09:46:00.003-04:00

Last night we watched the last two weeks of Battlestar Galactica and boy-howdy, were we blown away! Don't worry if you haven't seen it yet, I won't spoil anything here. Bit if you have already watched, what did you think? And how long do we have to wait until the next episode airs?

Mean Spirited Monday

2008-06-16T09:00:00.004-04:00

Every Monday morning I post a picture of a person, place or thing for you to comment on. Remember to have fun and be mean spirited with your comments.

This week, Monday. Let the meaness begin!

I'll get things started - Is there anything good about Monday? It sucks! For me Monday begins on Sunday evening when I start dwelling on all the work-related crap I have to take care of over the upcoming week. Then I get even angrier at Monday because it has invaded my Sunday, which is still part of the weekend. Stupid Monday.

Dead Or Alive?

2008-06-13T09:00:00.000-04:00

Just In Case You Live Under A Rock...

2008-06-10T09:27:00.005-04:00

Yesterday, Apple unveiled the new iPhone 3G, which will go on sale July 11th.
This new edition will run on a 3G, or third-generation, network that will allow for much zippier Internet browsing (that's good news for you Turkey). In addition to the faster speeds, the new model also comes with built-in GPS, longer battery life (10 hours of talk time on 2G networks and 5 hours using 3G), support for Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync, new downloadable applications available through iTunes, and a flush headphone jack.

The iPhone 3G also sports a new (and slightly thinner) glossy case in black or white, however, if you want white, you will have to step up to the 16GB model.
You might think that all of these new goodies packed into a slimmer phone would mean a higher price but you would be wrong. The 3G iPhone will retail for $199 for the 8GB model and $299 for the 16GB.

I think I may have just discovered what to blow my Bush check on.

Mean Spirited Monday

2008-06-09T08:58:00.002-04:00

Every Monday morning I post a picture of a person, place or thing for you to comment on. Remember to have fun and be mean spirited with your comments.

This week, Denise Richards. Let the meaness begin!

Dead Or Alive?

2008-06-06T08:59:00.002-04:00

pop-o-matic Reviews ... Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull

2008-06-05T09:09:00.004-04:00

Critic's reviews have never influenced my decision to see or avoid something. Thumbs up or thumbs down, five stars, four apples, or ten rabbits - I don't care what someone I've never met thinks. The largest influencers of my viewing consumption are friends and fellow bloggers. In other words, you.

So here is my new review section in which, I'll share my thoughts on something and hope you chime in with your opinion in the comments section. Don't expect anything well thought-out or in depth from me. What you will get is whether I liked it or not.

Last night I saw Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, the fourth installment in this series that I have grown up with. I was a little nervous heading into the theater since it's been almost 20 years since the last Indy flick. Would Spielberg and Lucas still have what it takes to produce a great action adventure movie or would Crystal Skull become the Phantom Menace of the Jones series?

I'm happy to report that Crystal Skull is a great addition to the previous three films. This latest film takes place in 1957 and finds an older and more cantankerous Dr. Jones still traveling the world in search of artifacts and adventure. Crystal Skull has all the action, excitement, and humor of the previous movies and is definitely the most far fetched, however, you could argue that all these films are complete fantasy.

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull is the perfect summer flick - there is nothing to think about and plenty of over the top visuals. In other words, I loved it!

That's All Folks

2008-06-04T08:59:00.003-04:00

After a nasty and at times, ridiculous, campaign, Senator Barack Obama has finally gained enough delegates to be nominated as the Democratic party's presidential nominee. I was hoping that nominee would be Clinton as she is the only person that I have heard speak out for gay rights but I have to admit, that was the only thing I liked about her. Clinton seemed like any typical politician who would say anything for a vote. Obama, on the other hand, appears to be a genuine, altruistic individual and I'll happily cast my vote for him in November. Of course, I would vote for a banana peel if it were the only thing running against the Republicans.

Meat Man Update

2008-06-03T09:00:00.000-04:00

You might recall that back in March I was visited by a traveling meat salesman who talked me into buying meat. Don't worry if you don't recall, you can read the original post here. It's a short post so I don't mind waiting while you check it out.

Done? Great! Now that we are all on the same page, I'm happy to report that after sitting in my freezer for nearly three months, we finally ate some of that meat and it was delicious! We threw a few on the outdoor grill for dinner last night and it was, hands down, one of the best carnivorous gastro experiences of my life.

The meat man told me he will be back in September and this time, I'll be waiting with open arms rather than the skeptical eye I greeted him with in March.

Mean Spirited Monday

2008-06-02T11:22:00.003-04:00

Every Monday morning I post a picture of a person, place or thing for you to comment on. Remember to have fun and be mean spirited with your comments.

This week, Blogger.com. Let the meaness begin!

I'll get things started - I've been trying to post today's MSM since 7:30 this morning. I was up at a ridiculously early hour but apparently Blogger decided to sleep in and refused to let me access my own blog until a few minutes ago. Thanks Blogger!

Dead Or Alive?

2008-05-30T09:00:00.003-04:00

The gist of this post is so simple and obvious that I would be surprised if someone else isn't already doing it. However, after ~~a brief scan of my inbox~~ an extensive search, I couldn't find anyone else asking you, "Dead or Alive?"

The rules are simple, I post a picture and ask the question, Dead or Alive? then you answer.

This week, television's Katherine Helmond, also know as Mona Robinson on Who's The Boss. So what do you think? Dead Or Alive?

Stupid Work

2008-05-29T09:00:00.000-04:00

Sorry folks. No post again today. I know, I know. It sucks. Don't blame me, it's the establishment's fault.

The good news is that Dead Or Alive? will be here tomorrow. Until then try not to have any fun without me.

We've Beed Fugged!

2008-05-27T08:10:00.005-04:00

JDizzle (of Hometown Hangover) and her family have a tradition where whenever they get together, someone leaves behind an ugly piece of "art". That piece of art, a bust of George Washington has been passed around for a while and recently a new ugliest, cheesiest, most bizarre item has made it's way into the tradition - the Brimfield Bard!

Well the fug hunt has crept it's way up here to the Berkshires. JDizzle who was visiting over the weekend with Turkey left the bard behind. I found him this morning, waiting for me in the shower.

Who knows where the Bard will appear next!?

Dead Or Alive?

2008-05-23T09:00:00.000-04:00

G.I. Joe The Movie

2008-05-22T09:38:00.005-04:00

I so want this movie to be great but pictures like the following (of Storm Shadow and The Baroness) have me worried.

The Baroness looks true to my adolescent image but what the hell is with Storm Shadow?! Where is his mask and why is he wearing a lab coat? Aside from this picture, another red flag that this movie is going to suck is the cast. I like the Wayans brothers in Scary Movie but can't imagine any of them bringing much to the table for GI Joe.

Oh, well at least I have Transformers II to look forward to.

pop-o-matic Reviews ... 30 Days Of Night

2008-05-21T10:15:00.004-04:00

Critic's reviews have never influenced my decision to see or avoid something. Thumbs up or thumbs down, five stars, four apples, or ten rabbits - I don't care what someone I've never met thinks. The largest influencers of my viewing consumption are friends and fellow bloggers. In other words, you.

So here is my new review section in which, I'll share my thoughts on something and hope you chime in with your opinion in the comments section. Don't expect anything well thought-out or in depth from me. What you will get is whether I liked it or not.

Up first, horror flick, 30 Days Of Night, rated R and out now on DVD.

The story takes place in a small, remote, oil-refining town in northern Alaska, where once a year, the sun sets and doesn't rise again for 30 days - making it the perfect vacation spot for blood thirsty vampires. The film's star, Josh Hartnett is sort of annoying but he managed to play a likable character that I wasn't hoping would be killed off quickly after the start. 30 Days is a great mix of violent blood-shed, action, and suspense. Unfortunately, a lot of the suspense revolves around Hartnett's character who you know isn't going to be killed too early in the movie, which diminishes the suspense. That said, I thoroughly enjoyed this movie until the final 15 minutes, which were ridiculous, seemingly thrown together at the last minute, and just plain crappy. Despite the ending, this was a good horror movie and I would recommend to fans of the genre.

My closing take on 30 Days Of Night? I liked it!

Super Happy Terrific Products: Space Shuttle Bunk Bed

2008-05-20T09:36:00.004-04:00

I was never a huge fan of Ricky Schroeder's race car bed on Silver Spoons but I liked the idea of the bed/vehicle. If something like this Space Shuttle bunk bed existed when I was kid, it would have topped by birthday and Christmas list repeatedly until I got it.

Today, if I was a much shorter person, I would buy this in a snap but unfortunately, considering I'm taller than 6', it's not going to happen. Don't let that stop you though. The Space Shuttle Bunk Bed is available from My Moondrops for $2,600 and takes 6 to 8 weeks to be delivered.

Mean Spirited Monday

2008-05-19T13:25:00.002-04:00

Every Monday morning I post a picture of a person, place or thing for you to comment on. Remember to have fun and be mean spirited with your comments.

This week, irate anonymous commenters. Let the meaness begin!

Dead Or Alive?

2008-05-16T09:00:00.001-04:00

If I Had Twitter

2008-05-15T09:10:00.002-04:00

This is what you would be reading:

Regis just asked Kelly if she is a cougar. Kelly died a little inside.

I Have A Question

2008-05-15T09:00:00.006-04:00

Why do uptight, Felix Unger, Jesus-loving Christians apply to be on the Real World? Have these people never watched an episode? In the past 302 seasons of the Real World, every season* has had the following:

Spoiler Alert! What you are about to read is a fabrication of highly sensitive Jeff Ideas. Many spies died to bring you the following:

Real World Casting Call

Four (4) borderline Leaving-Las-Vegas alcoholics
One Straight douche-bag white guy
One slightly nonthreatening but large black guy
One unbelievably prissy cheerleader girl

The only common thread among the multiplying legions of Real World housemates is the predisposition to live their televised lives as if it were the last Spring Break on Earth. I couldn't be more jealous. In fact, I auditioned for the Real World once and received a lovely rejection letter addressed to "John." That's a story for another time.

My long-winded point is this: people want to be on the Real World so they can spend three (3) months of their lives getting trashed, fucking idiots, and maybe visiting India. Sure those kids will need passports but are they prepared for the most disgusting smells they will ever encounter?

If your idea of a good time is reading the bible than do the viewing public a favor and stay home until the final judgment.

Everyone else, you should be watching the Real World Hollywood - It's terrific!.

* The very first Real World (showed real people in a real life setting) rumored to have taken place in the later part of the 20th century.

Take It Off!

2008-05-14T12:28:00.004-04:00

Back in February, I posted several recaps of Toy Fair over on the Toy Guy blog. One item I didn't mention was the Carmen Electra Stripper Pole (yes, for real). We were a bit stumped as to why this item was being shown at Toy Fair but there it was.

It appears that we may now be able to answer the question of why the stripper pole was at Toy Fair. Last week a story made it's way across the web that claims the stripper pole is going to be part of the next Nintendo Wii, Wii Fit game.

In other news, Jenni B breaks her life-long ban on owning a video game system and buys a Wii.

It Came From Inside My Inbox!

2008-05-13T08:47:00.001-04:00

Welcome to It Came From Inside My Inbox! True, titillating and sometimes twisted treats from my inbox.

Let's have a look at what's in the inbox today. Sent to me by Sam with the subject line of "wow".

Mean Spirited Monday - An Update

2008-05-12T13:05:00.000-04:00

Over the weekend, I received the best comment here on pop-o-matic to a Mean Spirited Monday from October 15 of 2007. The subject on that day was Adam Goldberg.

Here is the comment, you will notice it was left by "Anonymous," which is always a brave move for someone when leaving a nasty comment. Enjoy!

Anonymous said...

i'm not really one to comment on this nonsense, but i feel compelled. i stumbled across this page and i have to say, you people are tools. are you really that pathetic and bored that you trash people you don't even know based on looks? wow. how very big of you. wonder what all of you fat computer world losers look like... maybe if someone kicked the crap out of you, you might not be so inclined to feel superior. let's face it, he obviously has more ambition, drive, and brains than any of you, computer people. in conclusion, get a real life, and toss your computers. maybe try and get a date. form real relationships, with actual people. find some moxy and insult someone to their face instead of talking behind their back. or if all else fails, walk into traffic and do everyone else a favor, the world doesn't need low self-esteem prats like all of you. thanks.

Click here to read the original post and see if you chimed in.

Mean Spirited Monday - The Establishment

2008-05-12T08:46:00.001-04:00

Every Monday morning I post a picture of a person, place or thing for you to comment on. Remember to have fun and be mean spirited with your comments.

This week, the establishment. Let the meaness begin!

I'll get things started. What's happened to the ideals and Utopian communes that our hippie fore-fathers refused to fight for? Today our label-obsession goes way beyond the tag in our collars, we work, live and sink ourselves into debt in order to buy the right Mp3 player, phone, car, TV, and gourmet everything from jelly beans to grilled cheeses. It's time for a new Human Be-In. So shake off the shackles of conformity and join us up in the mountains for hippie commune 2.0!

Dead Or Alive?

2008-05-09T09:00:00.001-04:00

Madonna Tour Dates Announced

2008-05-08T09:04:00.004-04:00

Here it is, the "STICKY & SWEET" tour.

Who's with me?

Star Wars Clone Wars Poster

2008-05-07T10:17:00.005-04:00

Check out the newly released poster for this summer's theatrical release of the animated Clone Wars movie.

The trailer is set to premier tomorrow. I'll do my best to track it down and post for you.

The Numbers Are In And It Ain't Good

2008-05-06T09:00:00.001-04:00

Bush's latest disapproval rating numbers have just been released and they are bad. How bad you ask? Worse than Nixon's.

From AllHeadlineNews.com

"According to the latest CNN/Opinion Research Corp. national survey, a full 71% of Americans disapprove of Bush's performance in the Oval Office; a new record that tops even Richard Nixon who was forced to resign in 1974".

How many more days do we have to endure this jack ass?

Mean Spirited Monday - Rosie O'Donnell

2008-05-05T09:07:00.002-04:00

Every Monday morning I post a picture of a person, place or thing for you to comment on. Remember to have fun and be mean spirited with your comments.

This week, obnoxious loud-mouth, Rosie O'Donnell. Let the meaness begin!

Dead Or Alive?

2008-05-02T09:00:00.002-04:00

The gist of this post is so simple and obvious that I would be surprised if someone else isn't already doing it. However, after ~~a brief scan of my inbox~~ an extensive search, I couldn't find anyone else asking you, "Dead or Alive?"

The rules are simple, I post a picture and ask the question, Dead or Alive? then you answer.

This week, television's David L. Lander, aka Andrew 'Squiggy' Squiggmann. So what do you think? Dead Or Alive?

Iron Man

2008-05-01T11:21:00.000-04:00

Last night I was invited to attend a screening of the new Iron Man movie, which opens in theaters tomorrow (Friday). As a comic book reader and huge fan of comic book movies I've been looking forward to this movie for years and headed to the theater yesterday both excited and nervous. Nervous because let's face it, for every great comic book movie, like X-Men or Spider-Man, there are just as many disappointments (ahem Elektra, Hulk).

I'm happy to say that Iron Man was a blast! The movie is an adaptation of Marvel's comic book series about a flawed billionaire weapons manufacturer - Tony Stark - who after a life-threatening experience, creates a suit of armor and takes to the sky to fight the bad guys. I have to admit, Iron Man has never been one of the comics on my reading list so I can't say how true to the comic the movie was. What I can say is that this is a great action movie with amazing special effects and a fantastic cast, which is led by Robert Downey Jr., as Tony Stark/Iron Man. Downey was perfect as the smug, jet-setting, playboy and the rest of the cast, including Terrence Howard (Jim Rhodes), Jeff Bridges (Obadiah Stane) and Gwyneth Paltrow (Pepper Potts) were equally as impressive. The only odd casting was the film's director, Jon Favreau, playing Stark's driver/buddy who was in every scene of the first 15 minutes of the film then disappears entirely without any reason given as to why.

The movie opens in theaters Nationwide tomorrow.

It Came From Inside My Inbox!

2008-04-29T10:04:00.004-04:00

Welcome to It Came From Inside My Inbox! True, titillating and sometimes twisted treats from my inbox.

Let's have a look at what's in the inbox today. Sent to me by Seth with the subject line of "Why Didn't I Think Of That", its the handy dandy, toilet office!

Isn't there a saying about not taking a shit where you work?

Mean Spirited Monday - Miley Cyrus

2008-04-28T09:17:00.003-04:00

Every Monday morning I post a picture of a person, place or thing for you to comment on. Remember to have fun and be mean spirited with your comments.

This week, the latest Disney disaster, Miley Cyrus who is causing a commotion with her topless photo shoot in the June issue of Vanity Fair. Let the meaness begin!

Looking For A Good Summer Jam?

2008-04-25T13:27:00.000-04:00

Summer is approaching and if you are anything like me, you've already started compiling your summer jams playlist. One of my summer jams is a new remix by Seth of Madonna's 4 minutes. You can listen and download it now by clicking here.

Enjoy!

Dead Or Alive?

2008-04-25T08:26:00.003-04:00

The gist of this post is so simple and obvious that I would be surprised if someone else isn't already doing it. However, after ~~a brief scan of my inbox~~ an extensive search, I couldn't find anyone else asking you, "Dead or Alive?"

The rules are simple, I post a picture and ask the question, Dead or Alive? then you answer.

This week, baseball announcer and dad on television's Mr. Belvedere, Bob Uecker. So what do you think? Dead Or Alive?

Guess Who Is Old Enough To Vote Today?

2008-04-24T09:59:00.001-04:00

It's the Hubble Space Telescope! Launched into orbit on this day back in 1990. To celebrate, NASA has released a whole slew of photos taken by Hubble. Like the following photo of Arp 272.

Arp 272 is a collision between two spiral galaxies, NGC 6050 and IC 1179, that are linked by their swirling arms. They are part of the Hercules Galaxy Cluster, which itself is part of one of the largest known structures in the universe: the so-called Great Wall. Arp 272 is located some 450 million light-years away from Earth.

Super Happy Terrific Products - Wiimote Cufflinks

2008-04-23T10:22:00.003-04:00

I've said it before and I'll say it again (right now in fact), I wish I had more occasions to wear cuff links to. Because if I did, I would be sporting these classy numbers. Of course, I can think of many better ways to spend the $150 the Wiimote cuff links cost, like a bunch of Wii games for example, but I still want them. They can be yours now for $150 from CuffLinks.com.

Boston Cream, Glazed, or Pepperoni

2008-04-23T09:07:00.000-04:00

Is it just me or is the thought of eating a pizza from Duncan Donuts troubling?

Why I Love Technology

2008-04-22T08:35:00.004-04:00

Last night I was firmly ensconced in my living room couch watching Gossip Girl (go ahead and laugh but I love every minute of it) on TiVo delay so I could skip the commercials. During the show, a song was played that I have never heard before but knew in an instant it had the makings to be my favorite song of the week. Much like the first time I saw "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" and decided to dedicate my life to tracking down the song Oh Yeah by Yello, I knew I had to find out what I just heard, who it was, and how I could acquire it.

During the end credits, Gossip Girl's producers were kind enough to inform the viewer of the names of the bands that had contributed music to the show and I was off! Less than 10 minutes after the show had ended, I had found Sour Cherry by The Kills, on Amazon, downloaded the song legally for free (thanks Pepsi bottle cap promotion), dragged it onto my iPod and was listening to it on my Sound Dock.

If someone could just invent a way to download beer, I would never have to leave the house again.

Mean Spirited Monday - Rex W. Tillerson

2008-04-21T09:22:00.003-04:00

Every Monday morning I post a picture of a person, place or thing for you to comment on. Remember to have fun and be mean spirited with your comments.

After a beautiful weekend of sun and fun, I really don't have much anger to vent on MSM. However, if I had to pick one thing that's really pissing me off right now it would have to be the alarming rate at which gas prices are jumping. 20 cents in five days is crazy! I'm not about to propagate any conspiracy theories but figured the individual who stands to gain the most from the raising gas prices would have to be the chairman and chief executive officer of ExxonMobil Corporation - Rex W. Tillerson.

So here he is, let the meaness begin!

Dead Or Alive?

2008-04-18T09:00:00.003-04:00

The gist of this post is so simple and obvious that I would be surprised if someone else isn't already doing it. However, after ~~a brief scan of my inbox~~ an extensive search, I couldn't find anyone else asking you, "Dead or Alive?"

The rules are simple, I post a picture and ask the question, Dead or Alive? then you answer.

This week, television's Bronson Pinchot AKA Balki Bartokomous.

So what do you think, Dead or Alive?

Doing A Little Business With America

2008-04-16T09:23:00.005-04:00

As Jdizzle noted yesterday, I recently added Google advertisements to pop-o-matic. I did this on the advice of my accountant, Rita, because if I can earn some money from this blog, I will be able to deduct a lot more from my taxes next year.

Apparently, the ads will be customized to match the content I write about, which should prove to be somewhat interesting. I write about toys a lot, which seems like a no brainer for the type of ads that will produce. But what about the weekly sections of Mean Spirited Monday and Dead Or Alive? I can't wait to see what products fit into those posts. I'll cancel the whole ad program if I see an ad for a coffin.

You can check out the ads in the right hand column under my list of Good Reads. Who knows, there just might be something advertised that you are interested in.

Thank you for your support.

Monday Night Comedy Review

2008-04-15T08:33:00.003-04:00

I don't care much for the situation comedy genre. Aside from Seinfeld reruns, there are only two sit coms that I watch that star actors and not animated characters. Those two shows are The New Adventures of Old Christine, which is never actually on, and How I Met Your Mother, which I mentioned before is on the verge of getting dropped from my to do list.

So last night I had a good old fashioned hankering for an evening of sit coms. How I Met Your Mother was already on my list and, as usual, The New Adventures of Old Christine wasn't airing. So I decided to take a chance and check out the other two sit coms on CBS's Monday night line-up. Those two shows were Two and A Half Men and The Rules Of Engagement, or Attraction (I've already forgotten the name).

So how did these two shows stack up? I was pleasantly surprised by how funny Two and A Half Men was. I love any comedy that promotes alcohol abuse, poor decision making, and prostitution, which Two and A Half Men managed to do in one episode. Last night's episode could have been a fluke but I will definitely be adding it to my list and if How I Met Your Mother doesn't pull back from the sickeningly sweet story lines of late, this new show might just take it's place as one of my two sit coms with real people.

Unfortunately, the same can not be said for The Rules of Whatever. This show is the epitome of why I don't watch many sit coms - it was just one big rehashed story line that has been floating around the boob tube since Lucy got her head stuck in a loving cup that Ricky was giving to an award winning jockey (yes, that's an actual plot from I Love Lucy and if you haven't seen it, check it out). Not even the deadpan comedy stylings of Patrick "Puddy" Warburton could entice me into checking out that crap-fest again.

Since I'm sure the programming people at CBS are reading, here is my ideal CBS Monday night line-up. For starters, why must the sit com be limited to a half hour block? Lets shake things up with 40 minute episodes beginning with How I Met Your Mother (please see warning above), followed by The New Adventures of Old Christine (you are going to have to actually air it for this to work), then Two and A Half Men (as long as the characters don't receive moral makeovers) and finally, the funniest show of the night - CSI Miami Vice.

CBS, the ball is in your court.

Mean Spirited Monday - Uncle Sam

2008-04-14T09:25:00.002-04:00

Every Monday morning I post a picture of some random celebrity, or non-celebrity for you to comment on. Remember to have fun and be mean spirited with your comments.

I just returned from the post office, where I mailed off my taxes along with a few checks for the feds, which will probably go toward buying guns or paying Iraqi militia members to not blow people up. So today's Mean Spirited Monday is our government's effigy, Uncle Sam. Let the meanness begin!

Dead Or Alive?

2008-04-11T08:06:00.004-04:00

The gist of this post is so simple and obvious that I would be surprised if someone else isn't already doing it. However, after ~~a brief scan of my inbox~~ an extensive search, I couldn't find anyone else asking you, "Dead or Alive?"

The rules are simple, I post a picture and ask the question, Dead or Alive? then you answer.

This week, 90's teen-heartthrob, JTT (Jonathan Taylor Thomas).

Banking on his success in television's Home Improvement, JTT was on his way to being plastered all over the bedroom walls of teen girls everywhere. And then he just disappeared. So What do you think, Dead or Alive?

The Mystery Of Stonehenge Solved

2008-04-10T08:57:00.012-04:00

A team of archaeologist led by Marcus Brody has unearthed the true purpose of the ancient monument located in the English county of Wiltshire. In an interview this morning on The Early Show, Brody revealed the findings of his team's work. It turns out, that Stonehenge was an ancient day spa, where the well-to-do of the dark ages would visit for the healing waters, relaxing surroundings and botox treatments.

No comment yet from the Druids who must be embarrassed to learn that the ancient structure they have been squatting in and worshiping at was originally erected by the Swedish to pamper DAPs (Dark Age Princesses).

It Came From Inside My Inbox!

2008-04-09T12:45:00.002-04:00

Welcome to It Came From Inside My Inbox! True, titillating and sometimes twisted treats from my inbox.

Let's have a look at what's in the inbox today,

Sent to me by Kitty. Check out the source, SeriousEats.com by by clicking here.

You Have To Burn The Rope

2008-04-08T08:46:00.000-04:00

There is a new game burning up the Internets called You Have To Burn The Rope. Developed by a Swedish programming student named Kian, the game takes about 60 seconds to beat and rewards you with an awesome little diddy. In order to win the game, you have to run through a short tunnel then confront a boss at the end, which can only be destroyed by burning the rope. You can play it now by clicking here.

Mean Spirited Monday - Battlestar Galactica Edition

2008-04-07T09:09:00.004-04:00

Every Monday morning I post a picture of some random celebrity, or non-celebrity for you to comment on. Remember to have fun and be mean spirited with your comments.

Battlestar Galactica's final season launched this past Friday so today's Mean Spirited Monday is everybody's favorite villain, Gaius Baltar. Let the meanness begin!

Dead Or Alive?

2008-04-04T10:07:00.004-04:00

The gist of this post is so simple and obvious that I would be surprised if someone else isn't already doing it. However, after ~~a brief scan of my inbox~~ an extensive search, I couldn't find anyone else asking you, "Dead or Alive?"

The rules are simple, I post a picture and ask the question, Dead or Alive? then you answer.

This week, my favorite Martian, Mr Hand himself - Ray Walston. So What do you think, Dead or Alive?

God Is Not Watching

2008-04-03T23:43:00.004-04:00

From a half-wit on Make Me A Supermodel to a majority of the housemates on Big Brother, they all seem to think that "god" is watching American reality television AND has a vested interest. Please, take your heads out of your bibles and realize that willingly competing for money in an entertainment game is the complete opposite of what god's spokesperson, Jesus, dedicated his life and death to.

Happy 30th Space Invaders!

2008-04-03T10:35:00.004-04:00

Hard to believe it but the original arcade game, Space Invaders, is 30 years old this year. Japan's Taito corporation and Yahoo Japan are making a big deal of this anniversary. You can play the original game online for free here. Surprisingly, this game is just as much fun to play now as it was 30 years ago. Although now that I think about it, I wasn't even playing video games 30 years ago.

Enjoy!

New Toy Guy Poll

2008-04-02T09:50:00.004-04:00

As you may or may not know, in addition to the quality entertainment I provide here on pop-o-matic, I also contribute to theToyGuy.blogspot.com. Today on the ToyGuy's blog, we launched a new monthly poll asking people to pick the Summer big budget flick they are most excited about.

Following are the movies. If you would like to vote for your favorite - click here and answer the poll in the right hand column.

Iron Man
Speed Racer
The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
Sex and the City: the Movie
Kung Fu Panda
The Incredible Hulk
Hellboy II: The Golden Army
Batman: The Dark Knight
The X-Files 2
The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor
Star Wars: The Clone Wars

Hanging Up My Blogging Shoes

2008-04-01T09:07:00.006-04:00

Congress has proposed a new law that will make it illegal to chat, surf, or blog on the internets when drunk.

"Congress apparently thinks being drunk on a highway is bad no matter what kind of highway it is."

Apparently a program has been developed that will monitor our Internet usage and will have the ability to determine when someone is drunk-typing.

I urge everyone to contact your congress person and tell them how opposed to this new law you are.

Mean Spirited Monday

2008-03-31T10:10:00.003-04:00

Every Monday morning I post a picture of some random celebrity, or non-celebrity for you to comment on. Remember to have fun and be mean spirited with your comments.

This week, Winter. Let the meanness begin!

UPDATE! - Since posting this entry earlier, it has begun to snow again.

Dead Or Alive?

2008-03-28T07:40:00.000-04:00

The gist of this post is so simple and obvious that I would be surprised if someone else isn't already doing it on a blog or other form or media. If someone else is doing it, I've never heard of you and, quite frankly, it's not my fault that you have so little buzz that you've remained unheard of to me.

The rules are simple, I post a picture and ask the question, Dead or Alive? then you answer.

This week, Monroe Ficus himself - Jim J. Bullock. So what do you think - Dead or Alive?

It Came From Inside My Inbox!

2008-03-27T08:41:00.002-04:00

Welcome to It Came From Inside My Inbox! True, titillating and sometimes twisted treats from my inbox.

Let's have a look at what's in the inbox today,

US Death Toll In Iraq Hits 4004

2008-03-26T09:26:00.002-04:00

I know this isn't a very pop-o-matic post but I think it is important that we are all aware and recognize that 4004 Americans have now been killed in Bush's war with Iraq.

More Pot References Less Love Please

2008-03-25T09:31:00.003-04:00

What happened to the writers of How I Met Your Mother during the strike? Did they all start taking estrogen meds during that time? Ever since the show returned a couple of weeks ago, it feels more like a bad Drew Barrymore chick-flick than the original, unique, and funny sitcom it used to be.

Until recently, I loved this show. But if it's going to replace the offbeat sandwich smoking story lines with weekly love stories then I'll have to bail out before ever learning how Ted met anyone's mother.

Mean Spirited Monday

2008-03-24T08:42:00.003-04:00

Every Monday morning I post a picture of some random celebrity, or non-celebrity for you to comment on. Remember to have fun and be mean spirited with your comments.

This week, vice idiot and complete asshole, Dick Cheney. Let the meanness begin!

Dead Or Alive?

2008-03-21T10:04:00.003-04:00

The gist of this post is so simple and obvious that I would be surprised if someone else isn't already doing it on a blog or other form or media. If someone else is doing it, I've never heard of you and, quite frankly, it's not my fault that you have so little buzz that you've remained unheard of to me.

The rules are simple, I post a picture and ask the question, Dead or Alive? then you answer.

This week it's another trick question, Vicki from Small Wonder. So, what do you think? Dead or Alive?

Don't Buy Gas From Exxon Or Mobil

2008-03-20T11:20:00.004-04:00

There is an email going around telling people to stop buying gas from Exxon and Mobil. The reason is that these are the two largest companies and if we all stop buying from them, they will be forced to lower their prices. If they lower prices then the smaller companies will have to follow to keep up.

Gas really is insanely expensive and only going to get worse as we head into Summer. So this plan sounds reasonable enough and it's easy. I'm always up for sticking it to the man so I'm going to get on board. The only way this plan will work is if millions of people do it. So, if it isn't too inconvenient for you, try to avoid Exxon and Mobile when you buy gas.

Spike TV To Air Entire Star Wars Saga

2008-03-20T09:59:00.000-04:00

Starting next month (April 4, 2008), Spike TV will begin airing the entire Star Wars saga. The network has launched a huge outdoor ad campaign around New York City to promote their airing of the saga with billboards like the following.

Additional ads put a humorous spin on some of the far away galaxies most popular characters.

All images from StarWars.com. For more information on the saga on Spike, check out Spike's official page here.

Nerd Alert! SCI FI Channel Announces New Battlestar Galactica TV Movie - Caprica

2008-03-19T09:38:00.005-04:00

Production is set to begin on Caprica, a two-hour prequel to the current Battlestar Galactica series.

The new story will take place 50 years before the Cylon attack that kicked off the current series, which is about to begin it's fourth and final season.

From SciFi Wire:

"Caprica follows two rival families--the Greystones and the Adamas --as they grow, compete and thrive in the vibrant world of the 12 Colonies. Enmeshed in the burgeoning technology of artificial intelligence and robotics that will eventually lead to the creation of the Cylons, the two houses go toe-to-toe."

In the meantime, the fourth season of Battlestar Galactica takes off on March 28 at 10 p.m. ET/PT with two half-hour specials followed by the premier of the first new episode the following week, April 4, at 10 p.m.

I can't say enough how incredible this show is - even non-sci-fi folk love it. So if you haven't seen it yet, there is still time to rent or download the first three seasons and get with it.

Too Hungover To Blog

2008-03-18T14:16:00.000-04:00

Mean Spirited Monday

2008-03-17T11:29:00.002-04:00

Every Monday morning I post a picture of some random celebrity, or non-celebrity for you to comment on. Remember to have fun and be mean spirited with your comments.

I know the Elliot Spitzer scandal is totally last week but unfortunately, everything broke on Tuesday so it missed my deadline for last week's M.S.M. So regurgitate your most witty criticism from last week and leave it here. Let the Meanness begin!

Super Happy Terrific Products: The Electronic Yodelling Pickle

2008-03-14T13:31:00.003-04:00

Yes, I'm serious. The Electronic Yodelling Pickle is a real thing and the name totally sums it up.

It can be yours for $12.95 from Merch-Bot.com

I know a certain pickle-hating Brit who may find this little gem under her pillow one night.

Dead Or Alive?

2008-03-14T09:06:00.001-04:00

The gist of this post is so simple and obvious that I would be surprised if someone else isn't already doing it on a blog or other form or media. If someone else is doing it, I've never heard of you and, quite frankly, it's not my fault that you have so little buzz that you've remained unheard of to me.

The rules are simple, I post a picture and ask the question, Dead or Alive? then you answer.

This week, child actor and teen druggie, Eddie Furlong. So, what do you think? Dead or Alive?

Fun With Books

2008-03-13T17:58:00.002-04:00

I read this yesterday on Now where'd I put my drink?.

Grab the book closest to you. Open it to page 123 and type the 5th sentence on the page here in my comments.

Here is mine:

"I want my breakfast."

Janet Jackson's New Video?

2008-03-12T17:33:00.003-04:00

FYI, from what I've heard so far, her new album is pretty good.

The Most Important Petition You Have Ever Been Asked To Sign

2008-03-12T11:33:00.003-04:00

Did you know that St. Patrick's Day is not an official holiday? Well the forward thinking folks at Guinness are working hard to change that. Proposition 3-17 will establish everyone's favorite drinking day as an official holiday but they need our help. In order to present the petition to Congress, Guinness needs 1 million signatures by midnight on March 16th. So let's help them out. Sign the petition online or text "SIGN" to 65579.

If we all work together, we can make sure that banks and the post office will be closed on March 17.

Go Speed Go!

2008-03-11T14:03:00.002-04:00

Are you excited about the Speed Racer movie coming out in May? Did you even know that this was happening? I was mildly interested until I saw the following trailer. Now, my engine is revving with anticipation.

The Dipstick Of The Week Award

2008-03-11T09:33:00.002-04:00

I know it's only Tuesday but there is no way anyone is going to pull a bigger boner* than our governor, Eliot Spitzer. Personally, I'm not bothered by the fact that he was visiting a lady of the evening. I always thought he looked a bit sleazy and figured he was probably up to far worse than hookers. What shocks me is how stupid he must be to think that the governor of New York would be able to get away with flying a prostitute from NY to Washington DC for a $4000 "date". It's as if he was taking advice from Britney Spears on this one. Way to go dipstick!

*Bon.er - Noun: silly or stupid mistake

Mean Spirited Monday

2008-03-10T09:34:00.004-04:00

Every Monday morning I post a picture of some random celebrity, or non-celebrity for you to comment on. Remember to have fun and be mean spirited with your comments.

This week, Ben Franklin. Let the Meanness begin!

I'll get things started - I bet this whole daylight savings scam was good old Ben's idea and for that reason, he has made my shit list. I want that hour that he stole from me back!

Dead Or Alive?

2008-03-07T09:55:00.002-05:00

The gist of this post is so simple and obvious that I would be surprised if someone else isn't already doing it on a blog or other form or media. If someone else is doing it, I've never heard of you and, quite frankly, it's not my fault that you have so little buzz that you've remained unheard of to me.

The rules are simple, I post a picture and ask the question, Dead or Alive? then you answer.

This week, Huchie Cuchie, Charo! So, what do you think? Dead or Alive?