Traditionally I make a list of all the best things that I've found in the past year so here there are. Consider them GG approved :)
1. Best Book
No brainier! How about the books that captivated my attention in a matter of days, The Hunger Games Trilogy Yes it's a worldwide phenomenon indeed but they have become so much more to me than that. a Suzanne Collins shares the story of Katniss Everdeen, a loner in a post-apocalyptic world who becomes a symbol for her country. Whilst Katniss is a strong protagonist the readers are given a chance to see her struggle and the subsequent changes that come about from her journey and ability to survive.
2. Best Discovery
Doctor Who?
What can I say about this beloved and brilliant series? Well to be honest I could go on for hours but for you guys I'll simply put it this way; this series offers adventure, courage, sacrifice, discovery, fun--simply it's magic. Viewers are given a unique opportunity to travel with a regenarating, imaginative and impossible man of a Doctor from a fanciful planet, a dark past with an iconic blue, TARDIS blue police phone box. It offers childlike, impulsive behavior, surprising and wonderfully remarkable companions--each magnificent in their own way. And with all this knowledge, power and legendary history that the impossible Doctor provides, I cannot wait for more adventures and surprises.
3. Best Comedy
Plus Awesome Guest Stars! Hello Mr. Vice President
Parks and Recreation (please see my epic post)
Seeing as I've already written a love letter to the cast and writers of Parks and Recs I just leave you with this, if you aren't watching it get on that. I promise you won't regret it. They dynamics and juxtaposition of the cheerful can-do Leslie Knope and liberal, government hating Ron Swanson is enough to spark glee in this viewer.
4. Best Sophomore Season
I'd have to say Revenge, last season the story of Emily Thorne and her desire for revenge kept the viewers on the edge of their seats and with her return to the Hamptons and after all the drama that her detailed plans caused the writers still had a twist up their sleeves. Her mother was still alive and Emily became even more determined to bring down the Grayson's with more vengeance than ever. Ultimately the season never deterred and kept the viewers wanting more--which often proves hard to do in a second season.
5. Best Song
"Call Me Maybe"
Yes, indeed it was the most popular song of the year, but besides the fun and easy pick up line that it provides I love the parody's and various remakes that the song sparked. Well done Carly Rae
6. Best Film
Now this year I didn't get to the thereat all that often but I'd have to say that this summer The Avengers stole my heart and sealed it away. I've always been a major fan of superhero films and The Avengers gave us fantastic interactions between some of our favorite Marvel characters. Joss Whedon gave us all we dreamed of while anticipating the mash-up of SHIELD, Iron Man, Hulk, Thor and Captain America.
7. Best Website
This year I finally succumbed and started a Twitter account. And became instantly addicted, yes indeed the best waste of time a gal could find. I'm sure all of you are familiar with Twitter but just in case, its a website that allows you to share a thought in a 140 characters and to follow people that you talk to on a daily basis and the people you wish to speak to on a daily basis. Some of my favorite tweets come from a childhood friend, Adam Levine and Mindy Kaling. It is AWESOME :) Look me up @MightyMaxine
8. Hardest Goodbye
American television provides a lot of information and a lot of series come and go, but the ones that stick around and become a part of your routine or water cooler chatter can really stick with you. If this category was about characters then the Whovian in me would most certainly have to say letting go of Ten this summer was beyond impossible. Farewell my beloved bouncy, skinny Doctor. And don't even get me started on the massacre provided by Steven Moffat in "The Angels Take Manhattan," in which we say goodbye to the beloved Ponds who became The Doctor's family. Since this category has to do with a series as a whole, which I lost 3 of: One Tree Hill, Chuck and Gossip Girl. I'd have to say One Tree Hill because I've been attached to that series since high school and grew up with Haley, Brooke, and Nathan. They taught me about life and survival--even if the story lines were way more dramatic than my own life--the fundamental things that everyone struggles with these characters traversed and overcame.
OTH the last and final season started last week. The premiere provided a field of questions in the first two minutes. As promised familiar faces have returned. Chris Keller is back, with the oddest pairing, Dan Scott. The sequence continues with Chase being arrested, Haley identifying a body, Brooke enraged and destroying Karen's Cafe with customers inside, Julian is being beaten in a dark and bloody way, and the sweet, dorky couple, Clay and Quinn have a what seems like a heartbreaking break-up.
So I'm sure the fans, like me have a ton questions and can only wonder as to how our favorite characters from One Tree Hill, North Carolina have ended up such tragic and dark places. The only speculation that I am 95% sure of and truly despise is the fact that by the end of the season Nathan will be dead. Which really sucks! Haley and Nathan are meant to have forever...and I'm just waiting to see how everything unfolds.
Chris Keller has tricked his way into running Red Bedroom Records (started by Peyton in season 7), and after crticizing Alex's song and then helping her, Haley places him on secret double probation. So for the moment he's staying in Tree Hill. Alex and Chase are still dating.
Haley keeps finding doors open, which is quite creepy especially since Nathan is out of time. Brooke is constantly trying to get her kids to sleep and Julian bought a sound stage. Which at first was a good investment until the movie he had booked fell through. Financial problems seem to be on the horizon for the Davis-Baker household. Clay has been suffering sleep walking problems. But as in any other good drama, he travels when he sleep walks and this worries Quinn. Finally Dan's burger joint has burnt down leaving him broke and homeless. Dan decides to turn to Haley who yields and he moves into the Scott mansion with his two grandchildren. Without the knowledge of his distant son.
I was suppose to make this post for Valentine's Day, but we can spread the love into the month of March--it can use :P
So here are my top ten kisses in my television history. There the examples of the best romances and relationships developed throughout the year. So get ready to say "aww"
Number 10: Admiral Adama and Laura Roslin
"Revelations" Laura and Adama. There what we like to call the Mama and Papa of the fleet and although they fight at times and disagree. They have a beautiful and sweet relationship, in which each understand the other in a very rare and scary way. I'm so glad they're finally together, though I could have done with out their sex scene!
Number 9: Kyle and Amanda
"Whats the Frequency Kyle?"
It took a season and a half for these two to finally make it. And although a slightly cheesy background (a garden like oasis), it still is sweet that they finally stop all the talking and Kyle finally gets it and simply kisses her. I also think that Matt Dallas is just so amazing because he completes the feat of experiencing things for the first time ever, as if it really is his first time! It's amazing. Also I truly rooted for this couple cause Kyle just really fell for her from the very start. In their case it truly was love at first sight.
Number 8: Clark and Lana
"Calling"
Surprised? I have often complained about the gratuitous nature of their relationship, but in the beginning--the pure crush that Clark had on Lana and that she secretly harbored in her heart for him were endearing and sweet. So when they finally kiss after she brings him a birthday cake and he implies that he wish has always been to kiss her....and then it comes true! It's just pure television bliss for the fans who invested the time and payoff of their chemistry.
Number 7: Lucas and Brooke
"The Wind That Blew My Heart Away"
So I may be the only person in the fandom who really truly, fully and completely rooted for Brooke and Lucas to make it in the the end but here it is my top kiss for OTH occured in my fave episode of all time. I love this moment between them because not only does it involve rain but it also has an argument between them--where in her true nature Brooke questions why he chose her and loves her. And what does Luke do? He never fails to give her the reasons why before they share an epic-esque kiss.
Number 6: Kyle and Jessi
"Electric Kiss"
Although I am iffy about this couple, and the whole situation in which it occurs. I have to admit that it turns out to be a bitter-sweet moment with a beautiful connection between the two surviving creations of Zyx. Besides read the title, how could it be a misfit?
Number 5: Starbuck and Apollo
"Home"/"Six of One"
The first of many amazingly emotion filled encounters between Lt. Kara Thrace and Cpt. Lee Adama occurs when Starbuck returns from a mission and out of nowhere Lee takes the initiative and shockingly plants a tender kiss on Starbucks lips! And this moment doesn't get lingered upon and they simply move on after a witty exchange.
Then another monumental moment occurs between all the gray area of the past in "Six of One" when Starbuck is locked up in the brig once and again and Lee is departing from his call sign of Apollo to join and Quoram and as a good bye they share this prolonged kissed that attempts to sum up their feelings for one of them--and it comes pretty close. OK so obviously I am a big fan of Lee and Kara---And I guess what I'm trying to say is that all these moments that they've shared shows how much they belong together and how much he truly loves her and she appreciates him for being there for him. Also they've proved multiple times what a kick-A team they are!!!
Number 4: Veronica and Logan
"Weapons of Class Destruction"
What can I say they're EPIC! It's undeniable from the moment they hooked up its been dynamite! Literal they're a very explosive couple.
I mean for goodness sake! The first time they kiss is after Logan comes to her rescue. Why do I love this moment? It's just so perfect. I love the fact that she looks at him for a moment and in an impulsive moment gently kisses him for a mere second. Then when she once again stares into his eyes, she becomes unsure of herself--a rare trait to find in Veronica. But it also is very realistic and I can just imagine the thoughts that are running through her head. But then before she can even walk 3 feet away from him, Logan pulls her into his embrace and opens the floodgates of his emotions. Something that I never really saw coming. I mean I usually can pick up on romantic connections but Rob Thomas, the trickster that he is caught me off guard :) And all is forgiven becuase it is such a wonderful moment. The scene finally ends with her looking up at him with entagled and opposing emotions of fear and wonderment.
Number 3: Jim and Pam
"Casino Night"
Okay so, Casino Night! Amazing!! Not only does Jim lay it all on the line and get shot down. He still ends the night with an insane in the membrame kiss with the girl of his dreams. I mean he spills his guts along with a few tears and all she can do when caught up in the moment is kiss him back. I love this episode and moment because it filled with disappointment, pain, but most importantly the hope and maybe a chance that they could end up together.
Number 2: Chuck and Sarah
"Chuck versus the Imported Hard Salami
I love this scene! Chuck and Sarah are meant to be from the beginning but this scene is so intensely perfect cause they think its the end and filled with foreshadowing (to an extent) but also through it all Chuck shows his true colors--sticking it out when it gets tough, specifically for the promise of Sarah's safety and Sarah being the bossy protective spy she is to be for the 'asset' but in the end she breaks and can't keep herself from him any longer. This is a theme that we see being brought up repeatedly throughout the show. They display true passion! Props Given to Yvonne and Zach. I really hope that they end up together and not just as a cover. I'd say that season 2 has been playing with my emotions along with theirs.
Number 1:Sydney and Vaughn
"Phase One"
Finally made it! Sydney and Vaughn, this scene shall be remembered always it. In my mind it is the classic television scene that all other shows try to recreate. In a moment of victory all they can think of is being with one another. The way in which the scene is set up is so perfect that you almost want to cry. They are set apart from each other, literally on separate parts of the room and as soon as the smoke has cleared away they move toward each other, the music swells, its quite cinematic, and when they finally meet no words are exchanged its all about their physical connection. And it truly comes down to the chemistry between the two of them and it is there. P.S. Michael Vartan also looks like he is an amazing kisser. I don't know why you'd leave that for Ben Affleck--but its all good. I don't have to feel so bad for admiring his sex appeal :P
Final Comments There's my list for the ages. I hope you enjoy and feel free to challenge these words, but I truly feel that you won't find better on the TV landscape. Also if you hadn't notice the majority of the list are first kisses. Here's a hint if you didn't get it right the first time, chances are that it'll never be right. Honestly! It's really about the chemistry and passion. Love its complicated.
So, I just finally got caught up late last night on all the drama of Tree Hill! And oh my is it juicy or what?
"Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly" There's not much to say besides that it was a episode that pulled more on our hearts strings through the reminiscing about Quentin and the viewers meeting his sadden family. Along with token five year old learning about death and grief. If you can't tell I'm still a bit bitter about what happened to Q. So unfair is the Tree Hill world....
"Bridge Over Trouble Water" This episode was also dripping with sadness because, Q was in a way still being carried by those who lost him. Also Peyton meets Mick, who obviously is her father, if you didnt figure it out by the time he started talking about her Bi0-Mom, Ellie, then sorry :(
"You've Dug Your Own Grave, Now Lie in it" So, Nanny Carrie finally gets to execute her plan of kidding napping Jaimie. This epi could be described as a thriller, especially when Haley find Dan tied to a bed and becomes helpless in the hands of Carrie. Though I was disgusted by the decision of Dan to end her life, at least we know that she won't be returning.
But does anyone else find it crazy absurd that Jaimie is experiencing all these crazy happenings at the age of five?
Also in this episode Lucas is confronted with a major decision Book Tour date or Wedding? But what makes this decision a true One Tree Hill Moment, would have to be the fact that his ex-fiance who left him at the alter and "truly" believes in him is the one he has to tell this to. And I thought that it was handled in as mature as a fashion as Tree Hill could offer. It definitely was awkward, could you imagine hearing that from someone--It was definetly evident that moment that she left him at the alter that he would end up with Peyton...but he also was engaed previously to his editor a mere six months earlier, if even.
Finally I have to say that Brooke was definitely ballsy yet desperate in that exchange with her mom. And definitely bordering on insanity for handing over her company to her mother! I was really upset by that but I understand how she could just do that, and I'm glad she finally got to discover the truth, although harsh. I'm truly excited to see where her journey will end up. (She has always been one of my favorites)
"Choosing My Own Way of Life"
Slamball anyone? In this episode we get a chance to revist an Old Hottie, Owen! And are introduced to new crazy sport that presents a true struggle for Nathan and Haley. Why cause it's called Slamball and Nate doesn't have the best back. In the end he decides to play the game and brings back the fun element of basketball that all the viewers enjoyed previously.
Also a part of this hub-bub Brooke choses to become a foster parent, while she attempts to figure out where to go after loosing her company. And let's just say its no picnic :) And Peyton, well she get's stood up by her dad. And find's out that her dad giving her up was the best thing her for life.
Lucas also makes his first stop on the book tour which brings him disappointments and an old friend, Mouth. After he is given the official news that the tour is a "no go" him and Mouth return to their favorite town and their girls...Being the true romantics they are
"Messin With the Kid"
Bullies are the greatest aren't they? After going through all that drama with Nanny Carrie, Jaimie starts getting picked on at school because of his infamous cape, so as a response Jaimie jumps on the kid and gets into his first fight. And this causes yet another cat-fight on the show between Haley and Nathan. With Mouth's return he gets a great job and an intern, a returner Gigi, who seems bent on destroying his relationship with Miliscent Also one of the best "fights" happen between Peyton and Lucas as they transition into living with one another. I recommend seeing this episode just for crazy factor and funny jokes. It involves: painter tape, b. davis magazine, and Karen's bedroom.
"Our Life is Not a Movie or Maybe"
The main reason why Tree Hill is a fantasy world, is because no matter how much the characters fail, another opportunity comes along and usually even better. So just after receiving the news that his new book doesn't have a chance. Lucas gets the offer to make his book, Ravens, into a movie!
Also in this epi we get the return of Derek and not psycho-Derek, but the real thing, as Peyton takes time out to spend with her big
bro and do some reminiscing.
Another huge drama was Jamie and Samantha sneak out to a party and use Brooke's empty store for skater bash. Ending the evening destroying what was suppose to be Peyton's wedding dress.
On the "Browen" front, Owen gets Nathan to talk to Brooke for him and tags along for the ride. Brooke being the confident cool girl that she is, sees right through this "7th grade behavior" I totally love the independence that she exudes and its great to see her considering giving Owen a chance. Also I loved the hilarious exchange between Haley, Brooke and Millie in the store about Owen and his hotness. That's how you know your friends love you, they don't hold back their witty, embarassing remarks from you.
But the ultimate drama happened at the revealing that Julian, who is the producer and guy interested in optioning Luke's film, and Peyton had a past while she was in L.A.
This bit of information basically slapped me right in the face, because we were led to believe that last season Peyton broke his Lucas' heart and never forgave herself there after. We as the viewers were never led to believe that she had made an attempt at moving on. Why? Cause she was the girl who believed in Always and Forever, if anything she was seen as the one who never let go. I mean, COME ON! She flipping painted the River Court in the name of their insanely romantic journey.
I do have to say that I am truly intrigued to see where this leads and what possible problems will arise with the making of the movie and the struggles between Lucas and Julian. Especially when Lucas' finds out what happened between the two of them. But I will be highly upset if they end up breaking up over it! Because we have invested six years into watching their journey and it better end with a magically happy and beautious wedding.
One Tree Hill, the best guilty pleasure on TV premiered 3 weeks ago, finally answering the question that was on every viewer's mind this summer. Who is Lucas going to pick?!?! So, as a major fan of Brooke and Lucas I really hoped they would be able to make it work out, but it was an impossibly hope filled dream. As a reasonable person I can see why they landed on the obvious and best chose for Lucas. So in the end he called Peyton, the only girl who cheats with when not in a relationship. He chose her his senior year, why not chose her again. Shocker! So maybe he can stop being a dushbag and start being the Lucas I fell in love with at the start 6 years ago :)
A girl can dream...
Ok, here you go "Leyton" fans
Bi-Weekly Opinion (I know I'm a week behind--I'll catch up)
"Touch Me I'm going to Scream"
I have to say that this epi reminded me of the random adventures from the high school year with the impulsive trip to Vegas and the colorfulness of their almost wedding. Another returning favorite is Jaime and his precocious nature. He's such a cutie! Major surprises was the revealing of who hit Dan! The creators of this show are so twisted cause it could have been a stranger, but NO! they found a way to bring back Nanny Carey along with all the crazy. Something else I find random....the weird May-December between Skillz and Deb, whom both have totally different relationships with Nathan. I mean, come on! As a reformed Mom, Deb is definitely crossing a major line here, and besides all that its just plain weird.
"One Million Billionth of a Millisecond on a Sunday Morning"
Major surprise for the season the horrible beating that Brooke received at the end of the last episode. The visual that the creators display is more powerful than you can imagine. Especially since it is out of character for B. Davis to look like that. Finally if I can be mad at Brooke for anything it would be the fact that she is attempting to deal with this on her own and that she didn't report the incident to the police. I can see this with my magical TV eyes, that its going to come back to bite her. Foreshadowing anyone? Also for the sake of her b***** mother--I really hope she didn't hire someone to commit this to her own daughter. My final comment would be the untimely and unnecessary death of Q. I'm sure that viewers were just as shocked as I was and felt that it was just wrong. In terms of his death I felt that the creators used it to pull on our heart strings with revealing more back story as his dreams, hopes and family he has a little brother. And the fact that he died the way he did was so unfair and unjust. But I guess that's point, isn't it? The world is unfair and doesn't care what your dreams may be and can wipe it out at any moment that it desires.
