Chronicle of a Safe house

So, this past weekend, I went to go see Chronicle and Safe House. Although, this almost didn’t happen because I really had no stark interest in seeing Safe House (not at that time anyway), however my boyfriend’s a BIG Denzel Washington fan, and so not to have seen it would’ve been treason. hahahahaha just kidding.

Fortunately, both films turned out to be quite entertaining to say the least; each movie had facets of intrigue, suspense, and action, which came into play at different times that were pivotal to the movie’s plot. All in all, the day was a success, and my bf and I left the theater feeling pretty good.

Over-use of superpowers is detrimental to one’s health

Chronicle

Plot:

Three high school buddies stumble upon an incredible, and mysterious find, which later is revealed to have imbued the trio with otherworldly, and supernatural powers. In the beginning the friends are fascinated by their new-found, and extraordinary abilities; choosing to test the limits and depths of their powers through innocent, and childlike pranks. However, as they would soon discover that with ultimate power, there comes an ultimate price. Giving credence to the quote:

“Power corrupts; absolute power corrupts absolutely”-John Emerich Edward Dalberg Acton

The premise or “sub-plot” to the film appealed to me, because it touched on the ambiguity of the human psyche, or subconscious– posing the question as to what you would do, if you were given superpowers? All of us have asked this question before, or have had this question asked of us at some time in our lives. Who hasn’t thought of this? Who hasn’t imagined the idea of being invisible, or being able to fly?

Yeah, it seems pretty tantalizing, but what happens when you get lost in the power? What happens when self awareness, accountability, and morality disappears? Not so easy to answer now, is it?

“I’m already inside your head” –Tobin Frost

Now, I have to get comfortable to write this review for “Safe House”, because I want to make sure that I get the essence of the movie down perfectly, and that I convey this to you. Besides, a certain fan would bust my chops if I don’t get it right. hahahahaha

 Sooooo…

Ryan Reynolds

The movie opens in South Africa, with Matt Weston (Ryan Reynolds), a rookie C.I.A agent, coping with the doldrums of an inactive, and uneventful post in Cape Town. For the past year or so, Weston (Reynolds) has been “house keeper” to a secret government safe house; aspiring to be given more of a critical assignment, Weston, plays the good ol’ boy until he can prove his mettle. The day finally comes, when Weston’s hopes are answered, when he receives word that his safe house will be playing host to a high level prisoner; as he readies himself, the prisoner is led in by a team of agents, who quickly get to work with the interrogation process. While looking on, Weston awaits as the team sets up what looks to be a not so kosher questioning session; as the team brings in the prisoner, Matt realizes that the high priority prisoner is none other than renegade, ex-intelligence, and legendary ops agent Tobin Frost (Washington).

Tobin Frost has been known to the C.I.A for years, due to his ability to evade authorities, trading in secret intell  to any group willing to pay for it. After being off the grid for years, Tobin miraculously reappears toting a secret that he’s willing to risk his life for, what it is? No one knows.

During this process of interrogation, the safe house comes under siege by a band of mercenaries, who are gunning for Frost, no matter who or what stands in their way. Perplexed by the fact that their location was infiltrated, Weston must put aside his loyalties, and become allies with Frost long enough for them to survive, and discover who wants Frost dead, and why?

Denzel Washington has yet again churned out another tour-de-force performance; filled with great action sequences, intelligent dialogue, and his on-screen chemistry with Reynolds is palpable. I would say more, but then I wouldn’t want to ruin it for you. Enjoy!!!!

Two for one deal

So I just finished watching ABC’s World news tonight (one of my favorite programs btw), and there were a few topics tonight that really intrigued me; one of them being the rising trend of some women opting to hire male companions to fulfill whatever desire that they may have, although, as the owner of one of these popular “dating sites”, that specialize in providing women with arm candy for rent, emphatically states, they don’t not illicit (or advertise) sexual behavior and/or services. However, he doesn’t deny that sexual actions may happen, however if they do, that’s between the client and the escort.


“Money exchanged is for time and companionship only. Anything else that may occur is a matter of personal choice between two or more consenting adults of legal age, and is not contracted for, nor is it requested to be contracted for or compensated for in any manner….”

Yeah right! hahahahahaha

Straight male escort site ” Cowboys 4 angels ” founder, agent, and ex-model Garren James, promotes a kind of gentleman caller, ultimate boyfriend-like relationship between their clients, and their “cowboys”, where nothing, but the finest, classy, smart, entertaining men are handpicked personally by none other than himself. I don’t know why, but typing out this line makes me think of the green giant, and hearing the hohoho jingle in the back of my mind. Anyway, although I don’t have a problem with the whole concept of women looking to hook-up as it were, but the site, and how it’s set up, and promoted just makes me giggle, however not in a judgmental way. The site is also the inspiration for Showtime entertainment series gigolos.

All assumption aside, the probability of sex happening during one of these interludes is highly likely, as would any two people brought together with the complete understanding that something may happen, and by something I’m talking about “knocking boots”…especially if the two individuals are fairly attractive, and consenting, who wouldn’t want to take it to the next step. However, I wonder what the stereotype of this practice would be, apart from the glamorization of male escorts in pop culture media i.e. (Hung, American Gigolo, My private Idaho etc), how will women be looked upon if they were openly upfront about it, or would they prefer to be secretive about it– to only whisper about it in identity optional chat groups, or some other detached medium where their consciences are absolved in some way. Honestly, I think it’s pretty cool for a woman to be brutally honest about her wants, desires, and needs. I applaud anyone (more so a woman) to be expressively liberated from  the social norms that the populous have weighed on our morality. Although, I’m not saying that it’s an issue of right and wrong, because there are a lot messed up shit that goes on in the world that should be considered morally reprehensible. Why is it more acceptable for a guy to go out on the street, and pick up some prostitute, or some states to legalize brothels popping up like wild chia pet farms, than a successful lady, who isn’t necessarily looking for a relationship, or a commitment per se, but to, as my mom would say “get her rocks off”. Yes people, my mother has said this to me.. *looks down in shame* hahahaahahaha

Happy ordering, and have fun ladies!

Better to slap two lard bricks on a bun and call it a day…at least you’ll know what you’re getting…

Nice segue into the next story of this post, referring to the infamous “triple bypass burger“sold at the Heart attack grill, a restaurant that quite boldly boasts about its artery clogging laden menu; filled with, c’mon let’s face it, some damn tasty looking food. Now, here’s the crux of the matter, the restaurant has recently gained fame due to the moniker of the restaurant proving to be a little too prophetic to a few unlucky customers; sending one to the hospital, and two dying from apparently ingesting the seemingly dangerous cardiac arrest in a bun!!!!!

do fries come with that defibrillator?

Now, knowing this, would I try the burger?! Hell yeah! I mean look at this thing >>>>>

Just gimme a side order of onion rings, and I’ll gobble this sucka down in a heart beat (no pun intended), milkshake and all. The question is would I indulge in this diet on a regular basis?! Uh, probably not, however once in a while treat wouldn’t be bad. So, why all the hoopla over the recent ER tickets that the heart attack grill is raffling out to the masses? Honestly, I think that the irony of the whole situation is tickling the funny bone of the press– not to imply that the rash of emergency room visits are anything to snark at, but I think that people are adult enough to know their health statuses, and make conscious decisions about what they choose to put into their bodies. Should this restaurant be ostracize, because they induce exactly what the name suggests?! No.

All jokes aside, I think the restaurant touched upon something unusual, and in all truthfulness, a very catchy concept. Very innovative; from the waitresses adorned in nurse uniforms, and the menu drenched in medical terminology, I think it’s cool. However, the only caveat that I have with their promotional campaign is the spokesmen that they have been known to used in their commercials have been morbidly obese, and one has already died due to complications. It’s one thing to have a diet smashing menu, which is fine, but be responsible about it.

Now with that being said, it’s still a damn good looking burger though.

Lost out there among millions

This is going to be a short post today, due to the simple fact that I’m not really in the mood to write. However, I’m interested in how I can turn something that seems to be a party of me, into an actual blog; so basically, I’ve been doing some research as to how to go about that endeavor. For some reason I feel like I’m in a David Lynch movie, in some seedy hotel room, counting the crack rocks in the shag carpet…ripped fishnet stockings and all. Anyway, if you any of you guys have any ideas please feel free to let me know…that’s if you’re actually reading this of course. hahahahhaa

My cherie amour

February 14, 2012…Oh l’amour

So today’s Valentine’s Day, a day where couples, paramours, and any kind of coupling, show their admiration for one another with the exchange of confections in little heart shaped boxes, stuffed beastly creatures, and/or flowers. The whole world over, people are getting drunk off of  pheromones, while probably stuffing their faces with an assortment of aphrodisiacs, and lust inducing movies; all in an attempt to show the other their “love”…. However, can one find love hidden within a stuffed bear, and Godiva chocolates? Can the heart be filled with fondness with the aid flowers, and ornaments drowned in a sea of red?! I think not. 


Underneath all of the commercialism, I’m sure the true reason as to how the “holiday” really came about  hasn’t been lost somewhere in the soup of nonsense; that people haven’t become so complacent in showing the depths of their love only for one day! 

*disclaimer: this isn’t a post from a single, man hating feminist– I’m in a relationship, and a happy one at that. 


Love, as with anything that’s worth having, takes time to cultivate, to mature, and should be shared with the person of one’s affections each and everyday…not just for 24 hrs. True love, or should I say honest love, takes those who are in it through the highest of pleasures, and the deepest reaches of despair. However, what is love really? A question that’s been asked through the centuries….an existential mind boggle I’m sure, however we still wonder about its meaning all the same. The what does it all mean? The parable of a lifetime. Can love be defined? Is a couple who’s been in a committed relationship for years more knowledgeable, versus a couple just starting out? Who knows. Although, I have only been in a relationship for 3months, I can safely say that I’ve learned a lot within that short span of time. 

Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous;

love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly;

it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered,

does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth;

bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

Love never fails…But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7,13

The philosophy behind these words resonated with me, and still do. I’ve learned that one’s personality is transformed, and slightly altered once the person decides to enter in a partnership; yes I said partnership, because that’s what it is: two people coming to together in a pursuit of a common goal. However, it isn’t so succinct as that I’m afraid. In order to have a successful relationship,one’s ego needs to put aside, especially one’s past– the past shouldn’t dictate the future, but only advise the present– believe me, this wasn’t an easy lesson to grasp at first, heck I’m still grasping it, and I’ll admit I’ve some eccentricities, as do my boyfriend..some of which make me wonder about him some days, and I’m sure the sentiment is shared. Fortunately, this doesn’t change how I feel about him, in fact, these “eccentricities” endear him more to me than ever. In the immortal words of Chris Rock…”If you haven’t thought about killing a n___a! you haven’t been in love”, and it’s soooo  true. Not that I’ve thought about killing W in any way…I mean it babe, I swear!!! Lol

um…continuing on with the piece…

All of this has done nothing, but made me quite aware that I’ve a lot of learning to do when it comes to actually sharing the daily meanderings of my life with another entity; that I’m aware and conscious of my flaws, and I’m not the only one who has them.

Of course, I’m expecting there to be ups and downs, in the full knowledge that for there to be rainbows there has to be rain, although I’m hoping that it won’t be as sappy as this blog entry is turning out to be. Hahahahahaha

“I will not be ignored, Dan!”

Oddly enough, I’m waiting for the hardships–to get through them, learn from them, and pass them. These are just a few things that have enlightened me in the few months of “coupledom” I’ve experienced; it’s imbued my boyfriend and myself with a new sense of mutual respect and love for one another, that we don’t hesitate to tell (and show) each other everyday. Plus, we’re still in the beginning stages, and we’re still taking baby steps as it were. However, it also helps to be friends with your lover as well, or even before you make a commitment, unfortunately, in a world of F.W.B’s, one-night stands, and casual hook-ups, where everyone’s into instant gratification, no one wants to take the time that’s needed to make such a relationship thrive. Sadly  enough, when this happens you tend to give birth to the potential fatal attractions that will inevitably spring up!!! All I can say is to thine own self be true, and true to the person that you’re “doing” as well, because you don’t wanna have your own rabbit in the pot experience. Sigh…such is the essence of love! tee-hee.

Now, by no means am I saying that those who choose to celebrate today are foolish, all I’m saying is that show your love 24/7 365, not just on the14th of February.

Diamond Crystal

Into the fray once more dear friends…this seems to be the motto of eternal funny man Billy Crystal, who has been asked to YET again step in as host of  this year’s 84th Academy Awards; after anticipated (and some may say more humorous, but less palatable) host, and fellow comedian Eddie Murphy decidedly opted out to host the annual Hollywood spectacle, due to a conflict of interest between his pal, work collaborator, and producer of the event Brett Ratner, and certain members of the public. Ratner came under heavy scrutiny, and harsh criticism after Ratner made a homophobic comment in an interview; apparently not even an apology could assuage the frayed tempers of gay rights groups,and some members of the Academy, leaving Ratner no other choice, but to resign as producer of the show. Murphy, as a act of solidarity, declined to continue on with his role as host of the award show.

Enter stage right, the on-hand (and obviously available) talents of aforementioned Mr. I’m Oscar’s b@#$% Crystal!!! Not that I’ve a problem with Billy or anything, however, I must say that I am getting tired of seeing his face every time February comes around, or at least worrying as to whether or not the man’s going to constantly show up like herpes, or worse, Shangela from “Rupaul’s Drag Race.”! I’d petitioned the board or whomever’s in control of organizing the ceremony for a fresh batch of faces, some revitalized stage numbers, and most of all NO MORE BLOODY CRYSTAL!

If I were crystal I would be offended at the fact the only time that I become relevant to people is when people have no one better to fill in; I’d be insulted if I were always treated as some back-up or second string to some amateur football league– like the kicker. lol

The cat came back, the very next day….

Anyway, regardless of how I feel about Mr. Crystal morphing into some kind of proverbial jack-in-the-box, all in all I must say that he’s at least more tolerable than some hosts of Oscars past, and that’s saying a lot.

The greatest love of all…

February 11, 2012 Saturday, I’m sad to announce the passing of yet another African American cultural icon, Whitney Houston…

Sunrise August 9, 1963-  Sunset February 11, 2012

Words at the moment cannot express the shock of hearing this news, especially as an African American, I’ve seen many of my icons pass on within the last few years due to tragic, and unforeseen causes: Don Cornelius (Soul Train), Dwight Arrington Myers aka Heavy D, and Michael Jackson, along with countless others. We can’t say what caused the singer’s death, nor can we speculate what led up to her demise, however, I think I speak for all of us when I say that we had such high hopes for her return to the spotlight, and a successful (and sustainable) recovery. There are so many  things that one can’t fully comprehend as to what goes on in the life of someone who basically lived their whole entire life under the glare of flashing camera bulbs, media scrutiny, and the ever present insatiable appetite of the fans. All we see is the glitz, glamour, and fame, but what about the stuff that goes on behind closed doors?!

Recent events recall to mind the tragic story of Amy Winehouse, and much like Whitney, possessed a God given talent, and the ability to charm the masses with their angelic voices, unfortunately, regardless of the gift that was bestowed upon them, the blessing didn’t seem to alleviate the turbulent emotional waters that were raging inside. Although, my heart is heavy with sadness, sadness at the prospect that Whitney will never get to redeem herself in the way that we all knew she could, however, all I can do is wish (and pray) that she can finally be at rest, and that we ALL learn from her and countless others that followed along the same path of tragedy, not to take life for granted, and to be grateful for each day that is given to us.

Goodnight sweet princess, and let the flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.

Frogs, snails, and puppy dog tails vs Sugar & Spice

So, ladies and gents! I welcome you all to the inaugural entry of my blog!!!!!

Now, I don’t claim to know all there’s to know about the world, and the creatures that reside in it, and whomever dares to make such a claim is not only idiotic, but delusional. lol However, I’m an observer, who has a brain, and an opinion, which is all I offer…an opinion, and like I always say, an opinion is just like a buffet: you can take what you want, and leave what you don’t. So, with that said I hope that all will enjoy, and don’t be afraid to speak your mind! In fact, I encourage you to do so.

The issue in this first blog entry that I’d like to address, is the practice that’s been growing in popularity, and sadly hasn’t lost its “acceptance” in today’s society…the practice of gender determination, or preference if you will. In many cultures the notion that one sex is (and will forever be) more predominate than the other. However, how did it come to pass that women essentially lost their foothold as being a relevant partner? In some ancient societies the female was regarded as superior, and encompassed the matriarchal stereotype– the “Earth Mother” role, however forward thinking this idealism may have been, it has sort of lost its popularity “contest” over the years. The “traditional” image of the alpha, the gatherer, the hunter, the quintessential “head of the household”, the “stronger sex” has been attributed to the male…an idea that’s been perpetuated by religion, social class, cultural hierarchy, and just your basic interpersonal dealings between the sexes. Let’s face it, some men think that they are physically, mentally, and emotionally superior to women; who could blame them for harboring this belief? Men have been told for centuries that they were the better sex! It’s even in the bible!!! Who can forget the moment when Adam’s second wife (yes I said second) Eve, tempted him with a piece of fruit, and thus damned her feminine descendants!… and to think, Eve was considered to be more docile than his first wife Lilith, who, in the Talmudic interpretation of Genesis, basically defied Adam outright… History has all sorts of stories, and legends that can fill the imagination with wonder. Fortunately, as I’ve said before, this is just meanderings of a curious mind, and as my sister so eloquently put it, boys have always been favored over girls by more than half of the world.Unfortunately, despite what folklore, oration, or bedtime stories may interject into the subconsciousness of the populous, it’s up to the individual to come to an intelligible decision that we shouldn’t always be bounded by an immutable ideology, especially when it’s up against a force that is ever changing…like people.

However, my argument is, when did society’s preference over one sex turn into little girls being abandoned? Mutilated? Subjugated? and in many cases selectively aborted in a practice coined as “gendercide”; when/why is it acceptable to look away, or to bury our heads in the sand, and cover it with the palatable euphemism called “tradition”. I’ve recently saw a news broadcast on this very same topic, that affected me to such a degree, I had to offer my opinion on it, a piece aptly named All Those Little Faces. The thought that little girls are being eradicated from the face of the earth, because they had the misfortune of being a female is appalling to me. I don’t wanna come off as a man hating feminist, however I’m a strong advocate for my gender, and with that being said, I’m also very critical/protective of my ladies, because I know exactly what we’re capable of, and I am fully aware of our potential towards the “betterment” of the world’s evolution…and by evolution, I’m referring to humanity’s evolution. Whether you consider it labeling, sexism, or discrimination, whatever kind of appellation that you what to attach to this behavior, just keep in mind that the moment that you exalt one person over another, without just cause, you’re immediately saying that person isn’t worthy. Fallible people should never deem themselves as demigods, and “above the law”; people should regard their imperfections, and embrace them more before they believe themselves to be perfect. Perfection, whether relative or common is unrealistic, no one NO ONE, has the right to say that “I’m better than you!”.

I wonder, did James Brown get the memo when he said, “This is a man’s world, but it wouldn’t mean nothing without woman or a girl?” Who knows, but I bet that if you were to ask any man would they prefer a world without the gentler sex, you’d see their answer would be a resounding NO! and vice versa.

I think that once we’ve made this archaic distinction between the sexes non-existent, I truly believe that cultures around the world will start to abandon the brutality that’s being thrust upon women today. Perhaps, if given the chance, we can learn to be more preoccupied with being huMAN, than just a gender. Just a thought.