Test Pattern : Pop culture

'This Is It'? Not for me

Paige Newman — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 10:00:00 GMT

On Oct. 30, oddly enough just in time for Halloween, Sony Pictures will release “Michael Jackson This Is It.” People will line up, pay their $10 to take a look at Jackson’s final performance before his death. For me, this prospect is cringe worthy. ...(read more)

Rock, paper, scissors, lizard, Spock ... Emmy!

Denise Hazlick — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 10:01:00 GMT

A year or so ago, my parents were singing the praises of CBS's Monday night comedy lineup, most notably "Two And A Half Men," and their new favorite show, "The Big Bang Theory." Not being a big fan of the "Men," I was dubious about "Bang" as well. But one Monday night, I decided to give it a try. Mom, Dad ... I will never doubt you again (well, except for "Men.")....(read more)

Time to end the actor bailout plan

Paige Newman — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 10:00:00 GMT

In these trying economic times, it’s tough to see mediocrity rewarded with piles of money. Whether the benefactor is a banking CEO or, well, an actor, there’s a certain amount of headshaking. Which is why I was struck by Forbes list of Hollywood’s top-earning actors for 2008. ...(read more)

Dr. Ross returns to the 'ER'

Denise Hazlick — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 06:01:00 GMT

George Clooney, who rose to entertainment fame and prominence as Dr. Doug Ross in the first few seasons of NBC's "ER," returned to the drama Thursday night to help the vaunted series move toward its conclusion in April. Clooney was featured in a storyline that also featured the return of his longtime paramour Carol Hathaway (Julianna Margulies), Dr. Peter Benton (Eriq La Salle) and Dr. John Carter (Noah Wyle) in a tale of donor organs, history and decisions that change lives. ...(read more)

Upon further review, call it 'Crap and the City'

Denise Hazlick — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 10:40:00 GMT

In the spring, I met up with a group of girlfriends for dinner and drinks before going to see the "Sex And The City" movie. Being a big fan of the HBO series, I was looking forward to the film. Two hours into the two-and-a-half hour flick, I thought, eh, it's OK and it's a bit too long. ...(read more)

Not that I'm against mindless entertainment ...

Denise Hazlick — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 10:30:00 GMT

As the entertainment editor at msnbc.com, it's my job to keep up on the latest celebrity news, from Heather Locklear's arrest to Britney's tour plans, possible move to New York, continuing court appearances ... well, you get the idea. And while gossip and celebrity news are not the only stories we produce for our section, it is among the most viewed content on the entire msnbc.com site....(read more)

Ranking the Coen brothers flicks

Paige Newman — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 10:25:00 GMT

I love Coen brothers films. In fact, except for “Intolerable Cruelty” and “The Ladykillers,” Joel and Ethan Coen have made nothing but excellent movies. Where it gets tricky is in ranking them. Some Coen fans lean toward the comedies: “The Big Lebowski,” “Raising Arizona.” Others, and I’m one of them, love the drama and genre stuff, “Blood Simple,” “Miller’s Crossing.” It’s actually a great way to start an argument with a friend. ...(read more)

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Denise Hazlick — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 14:50:00 GMT

I awakened early this morning to the news that comedian Bernie Mac had died at age 50 of pneumonia. Mac, born Bernard McCullough, was hospitalized late last week and, despite suffering from sarcoidosis, an inflammatory lung disease, he was expected to be released and to recover. All of which made this morning's news that much more surprising and sad....(read more)

Right man won 'So You Think You Can Dance'

Paige Newman — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 15:52:00 GMT

After a thrilling season of “So You Think You Can Dance,” the right person took home the prize. Joshua Allen, smile bigger than ever (especially without his braces), seemed more surprised than anyone that he actually won the prize....(read more)

Best magazines for your money

Gael Fashingbauer Cooper — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 10:00:00 GMT

I used to be embarrassed by the sheer number of magazines I subscribed to. I imagined the mailman trudging up to my door weighed down with a giant bundle, swearing under his breath about the lunatic who lived there. Since we've added baby Kelly to our household last October, I've let a lot of my subscriptions lapse. Now that she's sleeping longer, I'm starting to pick up some of my old favorites again. But my reading time is at a premium, and I'm not about to waste it....(read more)