An Observation: Blu-ray and Digital Distribution

Earlier this week IGN Gear reported that numerous Hollywood Studios have announced their support for digital distribution through the use of iTunes, resulting in movie and television support for iTunes. While iTunes already supports these formats, there is usually a huge delay for when a movie goes up onto its database, but because of these deals with those studios iTunes would have the ability to release a digital version of the movie on the same day as the DVD or Blu-ray hits stores, for a fixed rate.

This is a huge step for digital distribution, which many call the future of all media. This is already apparent with the music industry, where record sales have dramatically declined and CDs are slowly becoming obsolete. I mean, why go to the store and buy the CD when you can just download it, usually at a cheaper price, and have it on your iPod in a matter of minutes? The same thing is occurring in the world of movies and television.

Which brings me to the topic of Blu-ray. Disks with so much space that studios can give us versions of the film in glorious high definition. While many cool kids support the Blu-ray format, the general public still isn't exactly onboard, even with the fall of the HD-DVD. This has me asking, will Blu-ray end up have a sort of niche market while the rest of the world jumps straight ahead to digital distribution?

The world was able to go from VHS to DVD because it was such a drastic difference in quality and efficiency; no more tapes to accidentally record wrestling over, no more rewinding, and much better visual quality. But with Blu-ray, some people can't even tell the difference, and to really capture the full extent of it all you need a high definition screen, Blu-ray player, and a high end sound system, and generally that may be too much for people.

For the typical media viewer, say, my mom, she is just now getting used to the features on the DVR. She doesn't know about high definition, nor does she really care. All she needs is TFC and the ability to record it, and to her that's more than enough. My dad can't even operate the TV correctly, and throwing him into an environment with a Blu-ray player, a high end A/V receiver, and so on might not be worth the hassle.

So if Blu-ray involves so much work to really achieve its full capabilities, then why bother? Obviously the answer is quality. To entertainment fiends like myself, the pure beauty in high definition is seriously irresistible. There's nothing more eye catching than watching football games in HD, or watching a well-transfered Blu-ray movie. But this is once again relevant to the music industry. Many people are happy with their iTunes downloads, or even the radio, but to the audio elite, the CD is still the best way to go because of the full bitrate you achieve. Plus many people like having a hard copy with artwork and lyrics, as well as additional pamphlets. And then there are the hardcore vinyl folks, who love the authentic crackling when their favorite song record is spinning.

The real question I'm asking is will Blu-ray be something of an elitist market, or will digital distribution take the mainstream just like it has with the music industry? Only time will tell, once again it's just something to think about.

The Balancing Act

To: Adonis, Lance, Ray
From: Nazer

It's saturday morning. Immediately after waking up, my hand takes on the role of a zombie and reaches for the Apple remote on my dresser. From there I bring up Lupe Fiasco's "The Cool" and listen as I contemplate actually getting up from my 9 hour slumber. 3 hours later I wake up, go to my computer and get lost in the typical daily computer activities: reading email, checking AIM messages, slickdeals, myspace, facebook, kotaku, deadspin, sartorialist, and so on.

The clock on my computer reads 2:00PM, and for whatever reason double cheeseburgers sound good, so I take a shower, fix up my Netflix envelopes and head to McDonalds. On the way I decide on what I want to watch while I eat. Some Battlestar Galactica in preparation for the Season 4 premiere in April? Maybe crack the shell and start AMCs Breaking Bad. Possibly do the ultimate fatty activity (which isn't very uncommon) of watching Anthony Bourdain's: No Reservations while stuffing my face with meat and cheese.

After returning to my dorm room I decide on continuing my journey with the Panthers football team with Friday Night Lights. Tim Riggins reunites with his brother Billy and they steal three thousand dollars from drug dealers while Smash gets arrested for assault. 3:00PM and I turn on my Xbox to finish some of those Portal levels that I couldn't beat last night, but before that I listen to the CNN Daily podcast. A plane in Houston lost its wheels when it landed, but thankfully no one was hurt.

5:00PM and I pick up the Entertainment Weekly magazine which features a Spring TV Preview, with stories on Desperate Housewives, House, Grey's, the almighty 30 Rock and more. Panic at the Disco's latest album "Pretty Odd" plays in the background while I read about Hulu.com, a sort of professional Youtube featuring television shows and movies streaming free on the web, but like ABC.com and others they feature 15 to 30 second ads in the middle of them.

The last page of each issue has a story written by an industry professional, and this issue had a piece by Diablo Cody where she talks about her time in Vancouver filming in a new movie. She talks about the similarities between her hotel and a showbiz-infested summer camp, and now here I am writing on the blog.

Seems like a pretty busy Saturday doesn't it? Television, music, video games, magazines, news, and I haven't even watched this copy of La Vie En Rose that I rented yet. It's apparent that my life has been consumed by the world of media driven entertainment, and to be brutally honest, I'm loving every moment.

Ramiele Malubay, EXPOSED

A Cool Kids Room Exclusive... The Ramiele Malubay Scandal!

The current pride of the PI, Ramiele Malubay, is apparently in some “deep shit.” Recently, there has been a set of controversial pictures floating around on the internet which critics claim, jeopardize her capacity on American Idol. Several gossip sites, such as this one, have been leaking the photos, commenting on its ‘scandalous’ and risque nature.

Disclaimer: What you’re about to see is not for the faint of heart. If so, I advise you to put the kids to bed, cover your eyes, and skip to the next section, for they represent the worst of the human condition. These shocking photographs prove that Ramiele is past any chance at redemption, and her standing as a contestant on American Idol is, without question, inexcusable.




OMG!

...And yeah… back to reality – I really hope I catch a segment on Fox News about this “scandal,” or get to hear Bill O’Reilly rant about how unforgivable these photos are, and even better, hear him denounce Ramiele and complain about how she should be kicked off the show. “There is no reason she should be on American idol! – Do you want Ramiele being a role model for your children?? – This is un-American!” Then, after the program, they’d follow up with a special investigation story on the state of the Philippines, making sure to mention that the country is full of terrorists plotting to kill Americans; Then, they’d run another special segment, “Filipino youth in America - Where is this country headed?”

Moreover, it seems a lot of the other contestants this season have made headlines due to their ‘controversial’ backgrounds. One of the other top 12 finalists, David Hernandez, allegedly used to work at a gay strip club as a bartender and performer.

But this supposed Ramiele Malubay scandal reminds me a lot of a similar situation a few years back, when Fantasia Barrino won American Idol. The controversy stemmed from revelations that she was a high-school dropout, a 19-year-old single mother, and rumored to be illiterate. Critics, haterade drinkers, and those still living in the 1950’s were concerned that she was a poor role model for youth and her background was ‘unfit’ for a proclaimed American Idol.

While I can agree that being a high-school dropout and illiterate is far from being in the best of circumstances, I thought it was uncalled for and disrespectful to judge her based on her history, especially how the media hyped it up. Whether you want to blame black people, the government, or runaway fathers – that’s just the reality of America; not everyone grows up in the ideal or fabricated America where everyone lives behind white picket fences. Perhaps she is a reflection of America in the 21st century, although some people ignore the fact that people like Fantasia do exist, and ignore the truth that not everyone can live by that expected American standard.

To me, while I’m not much of a fan of her singing, have utmost respect for Fantasia for being able to put up with all that shit. Also, her being a single-mother and still being able to pursue her dreams as an artist is something to be much-admired. More power to her.

And back to Ramiele... it will be ridiculous if the media hypes up the story to the extreme; although if I was her, I wouldn’t be too worried. In all certainty, those leaked photos might actual help her in the voting. So to Ramiele, keep on reppin, and good luck tonight. (you are hot by the way.)

your political STARTER KIT!!

You'll be seeing this guy's face less and less.

Yeah, yeah, even though the primaries aren’t taking place for several more months and the actual presidential election isn’t for another year, I felt it was a suitable time for an update on all the oh-so exciting political action so far, especially with the remaining plausible candidates narrowing down or getting weeded out.

Sadly, I do admit; I guess I consider myself a political junkie, cursed with a fascination for politics and law and all that other “crap” that probably isn’t all-too attractive for a guy my age. Still, the process, the issues, the laws, and all the other-related crap interest me.

Regardless of any sort of interest, I still believe that it’s important for even us “kids” to be socially aware, to be knowledgeable, and to be conscious about what’s going on in the world. It’s arguable though, that our little San Diego bubble is distant from the subject matter – and in a realistic perspective, we could care less.

However, to deny the enormous impact the new President will have in our daily lives, and how his (or her..) administration’s decisions will trickle down and affect us in one way or another, is simply being borderline ignorant. Or at the very least, at least know that there will soon be a new President.

While trying to be as non-subjective as possible, here’s a few of the front-runners (note: this could obviously change) that are the favorites to replace George Bush and his 8-year reign. No doubt, their faces will plague your television, the internet, and will continue to haunt you as election day draws closer.

The Democrats:

Hillary Clinton.



Obviously, if you’re not ready for a woman to hold possibly the most powerful position on Earth, or if you’re simply a male-chauvinistic pig like A.C Slater, then Hillary isn’t for you.

She is well qualified regardless, and albeit her political career is full of controversy, she is the current favorite to carry off with the Democratic nomination, although she faces a difficult uphill battle to make it to the White House. I personally wouldn’t mind seeing a woman in power, and females already hold an enormous power over guys anyhow, so nothing new… As a bonus, Hillary is basically a 2-for-1 deal, with former President Bill Clinton also by her side as the First Lady..Man..Husband.. or something. (If your memory if vague, just try and remember how happy you were growing up and how things were in the 90’s.)

Or, you could just watch this Family Guy clip for some help.




Barack Obama.





Obviously, if you’re a Neo-Nazi or in the KKK, or for some reason just don’t like black people, then Obama isn’t for you. And no, that's not Obama in the picture, but his hottie-sidekick, Obama Girl, who was featured in a popular youtube video in support of him, complete with a catchy tune.



Its important to note that while he’s identified as African-American, he is also considered not African-American at the same time. Confusing?? Look at it like this; his father is an African immigrant, his mother is white, and he didn’t exactly grow up somewhere like in Atlanta doing the A-town stomp. I think of him as if Tiger Woods ran for office. Nevertheless, he’s a likable guy, represents progression, and would fair well in international relations, especially in the Middle-East. Plus, he has hotties like Obama Girl backing him up. Good deal.

The Republicans:

Mike Huckabee.



To sum it up, this guy has been lights-out so far, becoming more and more popular with conservatives, and one of the top favorites for the Republican nomination or as a perfect running-mate for Vice-President. Opponents are desperately trying to find dirt on the guy or waiting for him to fuck-up soon. He’s charming, has personality, and actually has a sense of humor that is desperately needed.

Hell, even Chuck Norris openly endorses the guy. Now that’s cool.

“Chuck Norris doesn't breathe.. he holds air hostage.”

Rudy Giuliani.

Dubbed “America’s Mayor,” and if I’m not mistaken, Giuliani is the leading front-runner to win the Republican nomination according to the latest polls. On a strategic standpoint, Giuliani is the best hand for the Republicans to play – his moderate to liberal viewpoints, his similarities with Democrats on certain issues, and his reputable history of being mayor of New York City, would effectively split the Democratic vote, giving an edge to the Republicans if things get decisively tight.

Sadly, he is an evil Yankees fan, and an unfaithful one at best according to this clip, though he covers himself here pretty well.

There are other potential Presidential nominees for the Republicans and Democrats, respectively, which ive failed to mention, including Mitt Romney, John McCain, and John Edwards, and many others who probably won't make the cut in the long run. Oh well.

On a side note, its important to remember that while personality is an important aspect to look at, its the issues, (yeah right who really does that) and how each candidate puts their take on it, which should take precedent over everything else. (ideally) So whatever matters to you - focus on that, and cross your fingers and hope that these candidates keep their promises. (HAH!)

Best,Adonis

time to get into that CHRISTMAS spirit...

Since we live in season-deprived San Diego, most of us never had to suffer through blizzards, shoveling snow, raking leaves, or having to root for hockey; in sum, a lot of us don't even know what the hell snow is in the first place. Unfortunately, since we'll never get the opportunity to experience the giddy-ass feeling of waking up one morning and seeing snow falling through your window, its sometimes difficult to determine or to get that wake up call that CHRISTMAS, yep, good ole' Christmas, is just around the corner.

Fear not, they're other ways to help you get into that holiday-mood and realize that its finally time to get those gifts you've been procrastinating to buy. One of my favorite indicators is simply on the radio, or mainly, the fact that stations tend to start playing all that wonderful, catchy, Christmas-related themed music, 24/7.

Damn, there’s no better way to get into that Christmas spirit than listening to xmas jams. Really, who can resist listening to Sleigh Ride, Last Christmas, or Boyz II Men’s – Let it Snow. (Of course, I’m ignoring the fact that all those non-Americans & non-Christians could probably care less about Santa’s fatass.) Nonetheless, if there's one thing to love about the Christmas season, it definitely has to be the music.

Recently however, as I was driving, blasting KxKy 96.5 and singing along to my old favorite, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, it came to my attention to how fucked up, or more specifically, how ridiculous Rudolph’s situation is with his supposed reindeer homies in the North Pole.


"Sorry Rudolph, but you're a loser."

With a closer look at the lyrics, it seems that the ONLY reason that Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Blitzen, and all those other fuckers even like Rudolph in the first place is simply because lovable reindeer-pimp Santa Claus suddenly takes a liking towards him. “Then all the reindeer loved him…” Fuck that, Dancer and Prancer are full of SHIT. One second they’re playing too-cool and hatin’ on poor Rudolph, then all of a sudden they’re sucking his d***.

Then again, I could be wrong. Maybe the lyrics are intentional, and instead, supposed to be some sort of eye-opening criticism on our society today, pointing at the fact that we still continue to discriminate and prey on the little guy. Sadly, Rudolph could essentially be that kid in high school that everyone made fun of...


Ex: Roughly, the human equivalent of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

Regardless, I’m not trying to boycott the song or anything like that, but rather, it brings to my attention on how some of us fail to realize the content of the songs (or any kind of art/media outlet) we enjoy listening to. Take the Mother Goose example for instance; they teach us her nursery rhymes in kindergarten, but have you realized how twisted and perverted a lot of her crap is? Just look at Three Blind Mice – now that’s some sick, violent, fucked-up shit.

While I can’t disagree with the concept that musical lyrics are often times supposed to be interpretive, in some instances there's no sort of ambiguity. For example, take the popular criticism of mainstream rap music that’s always mentioned – most of its content is derogatory and disrespectful to women, (Chris Rock makes a valid point about this, with "PUT A DICK IN HER EAR!!") yet females who act "ladylike” and demand for respect and for guys to be gentlemen, still LOVEEE to dance and shake their asses to this shit.

Nothing wrong with that either - Really, its all for fun, and I for one see the fun in dancing, in spite of the criticism. So please ladies, dance away. Hell, if there’s anything better than singing along to xmas jams, it has to be dancing to Lil Jon/Too Short – Shake that Monkey! and having a girl grind up on you.

Good luck on finals everyone, Christmas is almost here.

Best,
Adonis

Where Are My New TV Episodes?

Recently, people have been asking me about the current strike of the WGA (Writers Guild of America).

To sum it up, the strike is about the lack of residuals in DVD sales and new media, meaning online streaming of video productions. In other guilds and places like the music industry, you are payed royalties every time your work is being played somewhere. So if a band or musician has a song in a movie, they receive residuals based on how the many times the song is used. This gives the creator of the piece of work a share of the profit, and it gives them credit for inventing that work of art. What the writers are fighting for is that same deal. Currently, writers of your favorite motion picture and television shows are not getting paid for their work in a proper fashion. They receive an extremely small amount of profit from DVD sales, and absolutely NO MONEY for new media.

So why doesn't the AMPTP (Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers) just pay the writers? That's a question that we're all asking, but the AMPTP says that there is no money in new media. They say that the streaming of online video is promotional, and that they make no profit off of it, even though we're forced to watch 30 second ads when watching Heroes on NBC.com

So there's no money in new media? That's not what they said months ago, before the strike. This clip helps to explain.



So eventually when our television screens broadcast off the internet, at this point, writers won't be payed a cent for it. The writers are fighting for their futures, and with new media growing so rapidly, they're just fighting for their fair share.

This strike affects me because as you all know I'm a strong follower of entertainment, particularly in television. With writers on strike, no new episodes air, but people on set like hair dressers, costume designers, film crews, set artists, none of these people get payed either. If I didn't want a career music, I would try and work my way into media production or media journalism, so that's why I'm keeping such a close eye on the subject. And when it comes down to it, the writers are the creative backbone behind all of your favorite movies and television shows, so what they're fighting for is absolutely justified, and they deserve so much more credit.

For more detailed descriptions on the writers strike and up to date coverage, please visit www.unitedhollywood.com