Weekend In Pop

So, at last, the Weekend In Pop returns. I know you've all been anxiously waiting for it.
There were really no new movies I wanted to see in theatres, but I did catch up on a John Hughes oldie at home: "Pretty in Pink" with Molly Ringwald, Jon Cryer, Andrew McArthy, James Spader playing a great high school preppie jerk, and Harry Dean Stanton as Molly's out of work, but well-meaning Dad. And was that Andrew Dice Clay as a bouncer?? Wow. Great cast and sweet story (but weird opening song). I'd never seen the movie before, and was quite impressed. Teen angst at its finest.
On television, "Monk" had a nice surprise for me. They shot scenes at the hotel I visited in L.A. back in June, the Hyatt Regency Plaza. It was kind of weird to see from that perspective. A good episode.
Also watched "Eureka," "Defying Gravity," and "Mad Men," which had two or three "cringe" moments. Especially when that slimy Pete Campbell and his wife were dancing at Roger's party. Pete kept looking up at his boss like some sort of trained animal begging for approval. Pathetic. Don't get me wrong, it was a fine performance totally in keeping with the character. Another great scene--things got ice cold when Roger's new wife, Jane (a former secretary), bumped into Joan at the office. Yikes. If you haven't seen it yet, check it out this week on AMC.
Last, but certainly not least, I picked up an old "Calvin and Hobbes" collection and reread some of my favorite comics. Those are awesome! There's a new documentary about Calvin's now retired creator, Bill Watterson. You can check out a preview and find more information by clicking here.
Looking forward to seeing Mike Judge's new movie "Extract" this weekend!

Weekend In Pop

Good morning, everyone! Let's review the Weekend In Pop before I get too sleepy.
I saw "District 9," and within the first 15 minutes, I was thinking how cool a concept it was, and how I would encourage everyone I knew to see it--it was making some very good sociological and psychological comments. Unfortunately, the second half of the movie turned into an action-packed shoot 'em up, ruining what could have been something very special. I will give it an A for effort. We've seen the themes of alien life integrating with human society before, but this was a very original story, and the South African setting was perfect. I enjoyed the documentary style of filmmaking, as well as the special effects, but in the end, it's a rental.
On television, I watched "Monk," and thought it was better than the Season 8 premiere. There was a teaser for a web series on USA called "Little Monk," but I haven't seen that yet. Looks interesting.
I also saw "Eureka," "Defying Gravity," and the Season 3 premiere of "Mad Men." It was quite good, and promises to be another good season. A lot of stuff to digest in last night's episode. Quite a bit of symbolism.
As far as movies go, I also watched "I Love You, Man" again with my girlfriend who hadn't seen it yet. We both laughed a lot. It's my favorite comedy so far this year.
Got my toes stepped on with the local "48 Hour Film Project," but was actually relieved when I decided to end my involvement. Long story. Listen for more about that on this week's PopSnap! podcast.
A special note, thanks to everyone who takes the time to read these posts. That's why Grant and I write 'em. Please feel free to give us your comments about things we're doing, stuff you'd like to see, etc.
Alright, bedtime for me.