Blog Archives
Sam I Am Who Gives a Damn
Sam Elliott for the win (or ftw, as the kids say).
There are few actors in Hollywood who exemplify that old school “man” in film and televsion. Clint Eastwood is certainly at the top of this list, along with mustache aficionados Tom Selleck and Sam Elliott (video above). As a matter of fact, Mr. Elliott portrays such a manly character in the Netflix show The Ranch. His gritty, no nonsense, old school, tough western rancher persona is, ironically, a refreshing contrast to his sons played by That ’70s Show alums Ashton Kutcher and Danny Masterson.
Although, as the show demonstrates, both generations have valid points in a myriad of situations. It’s just that ever-present sign of the times.
Or, from a different perspective, Ashton Kutcher and Danny Masterson seem destined to be around Red Forman (in some form) for TV eternity. Regardless, this one-on-one interview between Sam Jones and Sam Elliott seemed like a perfect fit for “Wisdom Wednesday,” sponsored by Jimmy’s Daily Planet.
“Always do a little more than what’s expected of you”
–Sam Elliott
RIP Adam West
Adam West, most famously known as TV’s Batman, died on June 9th.
Living a life for 88 years is impressive. Now, recall the fact that he defined (however humorously) the image of the Caped Crusader for generations of Batman fans and his legacy begins to take a clearer shape. For many, Mr. West’s defining moment as Batman was that famous “wall climb.”
Ladies and gentlemen, movie/TV magic had to start somewhere. Still, that scene/”stunt” is a nice reminder and memory of the notion that things were simpler back then.
While Adam West will always be remembered as the more comical, light-hearted version of Batman, he’s still one of the very few actors who has portrayed this Dark Knight icon. And, in that spirit, let’s honor Adam West by giving him a modern cinematic treatment of Batman by way of a custom Dark Knight Rises trailer.
Thank you YouTube user “allcappsfilm” for that entertaining adaptation for many people’s first acting Batman outside the comic book universe.
RIP Adam West.
IMPROVing How Knowledge Speaks to Us (& to Others)
Have you ever wondered how to attempt accents from places in and around the British Isles?
Well then, you’re in luck.
A valuable element of life is the pursuit of knowledge on a continuous, daily basis. The exciting part about this relentless educational adventure is that the new information is boundless, meaning there is no limit to what can and should be learned. Nobody knows everything for every single present and future moment.
Except maybe Ben Stein.
As a matter of fact, engaging with and encouraging the introduction of non-traditional knowledge is where genuine creativity lives and breaths.
Here’s a quick tutorial of accents by actor and famed impressionist Tom Hiddleston.
As an improv actor and student, I can say with confidence that, despite your skepticism, you’ll discover a valuable use and surprising moment for knowing how to properly speak with the accents showcased in the video above. Sooner or later.
I bet you’re already chuckling at a time and place to utilize one of those accents.
Raising a Cane
What’s the one item that can turn any guy into a distinguished gentleman?
Hint: Johnnie Walker never leaves home without one.
Who needs Steve Urkel’s transformation chamber when there are canes in the world.
Speaking of a sophisticated cane Caine…
Whether it’s buying a cane or hearing a funny story from famed actor Michael Caine, either one (or both) will prepare you for this weekend. And while we can’t be Michael Caine with a cane (that just happened), we can get relatively close to that unstoppable style.
Almost as close as the name Michael Caine and a certain phrase that sounds remarkably close to its pronunciation.