Deadpool Slays

You were probably guilty of forcing your significant other to painfully watching that typical melodramatic rom-com this Valentines Day, but you really should’ve just seen Deadpool instead. Because, really, this 90’s Marvel comic makes for a surprisingly enjoyable film for both masculine and feminine persona. You might be thinking, but yeah most Marvel movies usually are tolerable like that. Well think again, just as Deadpool himself points out in the film, it is not what is expected.

Nudity, goriness, profanity, and countless references to sex are what you’ll get in this antihero character’s story. Deadpool is not your goody two-shoes superhero and he’ll make sure you get that clear. And we don’t mind one bit. It’s so refreshing to have a real, hardcore yet likable character in the Marvel world. This badass’ human side is relatable and actually makes you feel empathic. And his mutant self is so skillfully entertaining.

The film and character is almost like the Spiderman story flipped around and spun again and again. There’s the super strength man in Deadpool out for vengeance too but instead is ruthless and vies for his lady as well, in a romantic, yet overly sexualized and way riskier manner.

The real comic book character is very much alive in the film. From the endless humor even in dramatic scenes to the breaking of the fourth wall when speaking to the audience, the one of a kind of antihero is certainly accurately portrayed.

So next time, when you really rather not compromise seeing a movie that’ll just satisfy one of you, you oughtta catch this movie. Between all the gore and action still remained underlying romance making for both emotional and entertaining story. Humor never waivered, while even poking fun at the studio issues and other comic stories. Definitely a comic movie you’ll want to see again.

Costars in Real Life

When we get so involved in a show you just can’t help getting attached to the characters. So much so you start to think the actors to be akin to their television characters. So nothing’s better then seeing them all out in the real world–no matter how old the show is.

Sarah Michelle Gellar warms our heart on Instagram various times. The 90’s actress  throws it back to her days on Buffy with her costars and shows she’s still well connected with them till today.

 

We love that the cast of Jane the Virgin actually get along…and maybe even a real love triangle exists? We tease, but if only…sigh.

And while we aren’t getting a real season or comeback of Friends, seeing them together is almost as satisfying

TV Show Comebacks are Our Personal Comebacks

Gilmore Girls just announced that Milo Ventimiglia will return which lends the possibility along with Matt Czuchry’s appearance, an epic, fanatic love triangle with Alexis Bledel.

The thrilling Full House trailer reveals that not just the sets are basically the same, but catch phrases and character traits still strong.

Friends may just be returning for a special, but one return will content our hearts and satisfy our imaginations

Catching reruns of these shows on a casual night flipping through channels brings a sense of comfort. Watching the mother/daughter duo in Gilmore Girls, family ties in Full House and the ultimate clique in Friends reminisces the days of good television with out the ridiculous scams and contrived “reality” shows. These shows are capable of bringing back a sense, might say, like a feeling of home. Having these shows that were a real part of our lives just end just kept us wondering and dreaming about what would’ve happened had it continued. Did Rory find someone new or did she get back with one of her exes? What happened to all the girls in the Full House, did they stay close with the uncles? What about Ross and Rachel, why did we only get one episode in the end of them together?! That’s the best part of revisiting these shows. Fantasies can come alive and our questions finally can be answered.

 

 

Four Easy & Healthy Dishes by Me

Savory Breakfast Crepe

Sweet crepe with an avocado and Boursin cream spread, topped with an oozing, runny egg, dash of cayenne and garlic powder

…really a sweet dosa to all those Guyanese out there! 

The Crepe is more simple than you’d think. Its got a kick of heat and creamy freshness.

 

Creamy Risotto

Risotto with heavy cream, Kalamata olives, bell peppers, mushrooms, and celery.

Sides: Focaccia with roasted peppers baked inside (great find from Flamingo Gardens market). Baked squash with an overload of parmesan cheese.

More cheese, the better!

A risotto unlike any other with crunchy, salty, savory veggies.

 

Turkey Chili

Ground turkey, corn, tomatoes with juice, avocado, green onion, bell peppers, red onions, and beans. Spiced with cayenne, paprika and Sriracha.

Side: Roasted cauliflower with parmesan cheese. Roasted asparagus with garlic and salt and pepper. Turkey is such a refreshing and healthy substitute that won’t make you miss the beef.

 

Tuna Burger

Tuna filet grilled with capers, bean sprouts, avocado, spicy mayo, bun.

Side: Fries of course!

This is a shootout to Umami. It’s not exactly the same, but awfully close. I love a good tuna filet and in a burger–boy– you can’t get any better.

….can you tell I love cilantro and cheese??

 

Joy? Or Just Glum?

The golden team of Lawrence, Cooper, and De Niro collaborate once again in Joy. With this team, a lot is expected. Perhaps that’s too much pressure for this cast. While the performances were strong with Lawrence’s grit and dynamic abilities as well as Cooper’s charismatic ease, the film had little to fall back on beyond its characters. Russell’s usually artistic and nonlinear storytelling that pieces the past and present in an intriguing and coherent manner lacked this time. The developing story in this Oscar nominated film in this style, seemed unfitting and choppy—not consistent or necessary. In fact, the entire first half of the film could’ve been summed up shortly. The back-story was lengthy and dragged on, fairly arbitrary.

The latter half picked up, emotion began to build a little too late, and excitement finally crept in after barely keeping attention. Luckily, the climax brought the film back up and the second half is generally solid. For a while, there wasn’t enough to root for the character of Joy. She was uncharismatic and apathetic. Due to the lack luster character in the beginning, the story felt sullen and uninteresting. But, when the pace picked up and it became more eventful, there was more to enthrall and feel emotionally involved.

Bottom line: if the tricky, nonsensical story line of the first half was thrown out, the film could’ve been brought in much better light.

Tustin favorite Roma D’ Italia lacks in Orange

Roma D’ Italia is the Plain Jane of Italian cuisine in Orange.The restaurant opened at 424 S. Main St., while its owners, the Dominic Corea family, complete a renovation of the original Tustin location for the 50th anniversary.The items on menu sound mouthwatering and tempting but hardly deliver.The chicken parmigiana is average but pleasing with marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese. The chicken cacciatore is sauted in mushrooms, peppers and white wine, but it tastes like it was made by your inexperienced, yet well-intentioned mother. The gnocchi, potato dumpling, is covered in a creamy tomato sauce with a wonderful kick.The new location is rather modest and has a casual atmosphere meant for a quick bite. The decor mimics a quaint Italian bistro with half-bricked walls, checkered tablecloths, and pictures of Italy.Patrons will enjoy great service.This location can cater to those looking for quick bite or a homey sit down dinner.

Day Spa review

 

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  Lucchinos Hair Studio

  Business number: 305-860-6888

  Address: 1755 SW 3rd Ave, Miami, FL 33129

  Website: http://www.lucchinoshairsalon.com/

  Hours of operation: Monday-Friday 10 AM-8 PM

  Saturday 10 AM- 8PM

  Sunday closed for special events

           Located between trendy restaurants on a typical, quaint Miami street, Lucchinos Hair Studio has been attracting regulars since 1997. With their keen sense of community,the small, intimate, and comfortable interior supports the neighborly feel that is emphasized.

          Owner Lidia Nunez and staff treat everyone like family and take pride in being

  everyone’s favorite neighborhood salon. This is a place to feel at home, where food ail lbe ordered for you if requested, and everyone is a on a first name basis.The hospitable and sociable staff includes two experienced manicurists, one who

  is also experienced in all types of waxing and four hairdressers that provide all services including barber cuts.

          The studio’s wide range of hair services are the most popular including haircuts,blow drying, color and highlights. Services are certainly not limited to just hair as manicures, pedicures, and waxing are also provided. The popular keratin treatments are also offered

          Several different lines of products are supplied in the studio. The most popular

  include anti-aging hair products, the well-known Goldwell line, and the Live intensive hair treatments.

          Fun and unique special event packages are offered that are especially popular

  amongst 6-12 year old birthday girls. These packages are for 20-40 guests who are treated to a spa day with hair styling, a choice of a manicure or pedicure, and mini facials. Party favors, cake, and refreshments are also given to the special birthday girl and her friends.

           Lucchinos Hair Studio has a special of $30 for manicures and pedicures every

  Monday, Wednesday, and Friday and offers different specials each month including

  reduced prices on keratin treatments.

           The laidback, kind, and welcoming atmosphere of the studio along with the

  variety of professional and outstanding services makes for constant regulars and will

  easily convert you into one as well.

  Published MyCity Networks

Spidey Fails to Revive

 

            The classic comic book stories will forever entice and draw crowds of all ages. Their tales of the ordinary transforming into heroes, fighting crime and gaining fame are stories to live vicariously through. Spider-Man is no exception, in fact many would considered that hero to be the ideal.

            The endearing characters that represent the famous comic remain with Uncle Ben played by Martin Sheen, Aunt May played by Sally Fields, and of course, Peter Parker played by Andrew Garfield. Garfield impresses by capturing the essence of the dorky yet edgy nature of Peter Parker successfully. The resemblance between Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield is satisfactory as they share the same qualities that match the comic character of Spider-Man. Garfield’s cute and boyish looks help form the young high-schooler persona with a rebellious side. The film takes on a new twist by attaching a new storyline that was absent from the previous films. The storyline is brought by the substitution of Mary Jane with Gwen Stacy played by Emma Stone. Emma Stone’s screen presence alone brings interest and attraction with her authentic acting and personality. Her character brings a sense of reality in the otherwise supernatural world. Along with that a believable and charming romance is brewed as well as a tragic, heartfelt and dramatic storyline that surrounds around her family, especially her father.

            Unfortunately, Garfield’s character lacks the same, consistent sincerity and likeability. Sure, Spider-Man is supposed to take a dark turn in order to make his transformation, but in this film that change prolongs unnecessarily, meanwhile his brighter side is depleted and he simply comes off as an annoyance and a ruthless jerk. Only in one instance does he try to save someone, besides fighting against The Lizard, which actually seemed only be for his own personal interest. He just isn’t fighting for the greater good; he’s looking for revenge. He never seems to find that moment of motivation to fight crime and the want to protect the world.

            What is most disappointing about the film is that even though with all these additions and twists, The Amazing Spider-Man seems just like the previous film. Which, I suppose is inevitable, but there wasn’t enough to engage you and to make it feel like a new experience. In fact, it actually pales in comparison to Raimi’s version. The characters are more likeable, the pace and unfolding of events is more reasonable, and excitement was much more.

            Despite the commendable efforts of Garfield and Stone individually and together with their electric chemistry, The Amazing Spider-Man was mildly entertaining yet slightly disappointing.

            The endearing characters that represent the famous comic remain with Uncle Ben played by Martin Sheen, Aunt May played by Sally Fields, and of course, Peter Parker played by Andrew Garfield. Garfield impresses by capturing the essence of the dorky yet edgy nature of Peter Parker successfully. The resemblance between Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield is satisfactory as they share the same qualities that match the comic character of Spider-Man. Garfield’s cute and boyish looks help form the young high-schooler persona with a rebellious side. The film takes on a new twist by attaching a new storyline that was absent from the previous films. The storyline is brought by the substitution of Mary Jane with Gwen Stacy played by Emma Stone. Emma Stone’s screen presence alone brings interest and attraction with her authentic acting and personality. Her character brings a sense of reality in the otherwise supernatural world. Along with that a believable and charming romance is brewed as well as a tragic, heartfelt and dramatic storyline that surrounds around her family, especially her father.

            Unfortunately, Garfield’s character lacks the same, consistent sincerity and likeability. Sure, Spider-Man is supposed to take a dark turn in order to make his transformation, but in this film that change prolongs unnecessarily, meanwhile his brighter side is depleted and he simply comes off as an annoyance and a ruthless jerk. Only in one instance does he try to save someone, besides fighting against The Lizard, which actually seemed only be for his own personal interest. He just isn’t fighting for the greater good; he’s looking for revenge. He never seems to find that moment of motivation to fight crime and the want to protect the world.

            What is most disappointing about the film is that even though with all these additions and twists, The Amazing Spider-Man seems just like the previous film. Which, I suppose is inevitable, but there wasn’t enough to engage you and to make it feel like a new experience. In fact, it actually pales in comparison to Raimi’s version. The characters are more likeable, the pace and unfolding of events is more reasonable, and excitement was much more.

            Despite the commendable efforts of Garfield and Stone individually and together with their electric chemistry, The Amazing Spider-Man was mildly entertaining yet slightly disappointing.

‘The Rocker’ is a class above ‘School of Rock’

The Rocker” features a washed-up, ex-band member, a high school band and a story of redemption. Sound familiar? The film has many similarities to the hit film “School of Rock.” But “The Rocker” is fully packed with hilarious jokes, famous actors and an entertaining story that trumps “School of Rock” by far.

The film begins in the 1980s with the back story of the main character, Robert “Fish” Fishman, who is let go from the band Vesuvius.

About 20 years later, a second chance at fame presents itself. Fish’s nephew, Matt, needs a new member for his high school band: A.D.D.

Once Fish joins, the film follows the band’s journey.

“The Rocker” presents no boring moment. Due to the brilliant casting, the jokes keep flowing. Witty and sarcastic remarks referencing pop culture add to the entertainment.

When there is a lip-syncing problem on stage, a manager says, “We have an Ashlee Simpson situation.” In another moment of hilarity, Fish observes, “A lot of elevators play Celine Dion — that doesn’t make it right.”

But like most movies, it has faults. Although most of the jokes get the intended laughs, some do not and become annoying.

The main tactic of the film — making the audience laugh in disgust — can be funny, but the film uses this approach far too much.

The cast makes up for such flaws. It includes Rainn Wilson from “The Office,” Emma Stone from “Superbad” and singer/songwriter Teddy Geiger.

Christina Applegate of “Samantha Who?” and “Saturday Night Live” actors Fred Armisen and Will Arnett contribute to the comic relief.

Even better, the soundtrack is more than enjoyable with songs sung by Teddy Geiger and other familiar tunes.

Sure, “The Rocker” shares a similar plot with “School of Rock,” but it is incomparable in other aspects. It has a natural comic flow supported by all the actors, especially Wilson. More importantly, there are no dull moments.

The film is satisfying in almost every way, including enough conflicts, a few romantic moments and an abundance of comedy.

Published in Sun Sentinel 

 

Teddy Geiger attuned to his role in ‘Rocker’

Teddy Geiger is only 19, but he sings, writes songs and, now, he acts. Geiger makes his big-screen debut as band member Curtis in The Rocker, starring Rainn Wilson, and plans to release an album in September.

Question: How would you describe The Rocker?

Answer: Funny, entertaining.

Q: Is it something you would typically watch?

A: I know everything that happens and there are no surprises, but I think I’d definitely watch it.

Q: Since this is your first film, did you do any preparations, such as acting classes?

A: When we were shooting in Toronto, I met a guy on some days off and took a few hours of acting classes, and that was really helpful.

Q: Was it intimidating at all to work with experienced actors such as Rainn Wilson and Christina Applegate?

A: Yes, it made me nervous. But they all ended up helping me out, and after the first week, I fit right in.

Q: Do you think you’ll be doing more films now?

A: I’d like to. I’ve gone in for a few auditions since the movie.

Q: So does acting seem more interesting than being a music artist now?

A: I still like writing, playing and then acting. . . . I really enjoy it, but I think music is a little bit more meaningful.

Q: I heard that a new album is to be expected soon. Are the rumors true?

A: Actually, I have a few songs online — about 33 — and I am going to let the fans choose their favorite songs and put them on a CD to be released in September. It’s great, because I get to collaborate with the fans.

Q: How did you start getting into the music industry?

A: Well, my grandparents were into the music scene, and they always had guitars around. I kept playing and just kept doing it.

Q: Did you always know that you wanted to sing?

A: I always loved music. I didn’t really let people hear it until I was about 14 years old, and then my parents got me started. So I owe a lot to them.

PUBLISHED IN SUN SENTINEL