Golden Globe Nominated Performance Review: Joseph Gordon-Levitt in "50/50"

I am not the world’s biggest fan of Seth Rogen. Over the years, I have grown tired of his constant joking around in his films and his extremely laid-back attitude when engaging in interviews on talk shows. In addition, and this is very important, I do not like the fact that he treats serious topics like unplanned pregnancy, which heavily centered upon in “Knocked Up,” as well as excessive gun violence, which is highlighted in “Pineapple Express,” and not taking them very gravely. Therefore, when first hearing that Rogen was co-starring in as well as co-producing “50/50;” a movie about a young man getting diagnosed with a rare form of Cancer, I was very hesitant about viewing the film; considering that he might be turning the life-threatening disease into one big punchline. Fortunately, however, I was more-than-happy to see the talented and personable Joseph Gordon-Levitt star as the titular character that is inflicted with the serious sickness; and that Rogen was portraying the lead actor’s best friend. What’s more, as I viewed the film this past October, Gordon-Levitt’s completely indisputable performance as protagonist Adam Lerner enabled me to nearly ignore Seth Rogen’s repartee and crude behavior; due to the lead actor’s immensely strong commitment to his respective role. And when I heard that Joseph Gordon-Levitt had been nominated for a Golden Globe Nomination for Best Performance by an Actor in a Comedy or Musical, I smiled widely and honestly; seeing how the actor’s entire feat was completely rich and devoid of any insincerity whatsoever. Henceforth, I can say with all honesty:

I Am 100% Happy For Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s Golden Globe Nomination For “50/50”

In Director Jonathan Levine’s comedy-drama, that is written by Will Reiser, who based the movie on his own experiences with Cancer, Joseph Gordon-Levitt earnestly plays Adam Lerner; a young journalist who visits a doctor’s office after experiencing back pains. His physician diagnoses him with an atypical form of Cancer and advises the young man to undergo chemotherapy. This news greatly troubles Gordon –Levitt’s character; as the doctor explains that he the chances that he could survive the illness are greatly half-and-half. Upon seeing the fear brewing in the young man, the doctor gives out the contact information for a hospital counselor so he could have additional support. Subsequently, Adam discusses his ailment with his girlfriend Rachel, played by Bryce Dallas Howard, who promises to stand by him at all times; even though it is evident that she is having a hard time accepting the news. Soon after, Adam nervously discusses his condition with his best friend and co-worker Kyle, portrayed with vast self-assurance by Seth Rogen, who attempts to cheer him up by explain that he does, in fact, have a chance at surviving. A couple of days later, Adam has his family over for dinner; along with Bryce Dallas Howard’s Rachael. Gordon Levitt’s Adam tells his mother, played by Angelica Houston, about his illness; only to hear her son say that he's got a hold of his situation. His mother strongly asks him who would step in and take care of him; and Dallas-Howard’s Rachael states that she will do so. Eventually, Adam meets with his recommended counselor; who, surprisingly, turns out to be a young trainee named Katie McKay; tenderly played by Anna Kendrick. And throughout “50/50,” Joseph Gordon-Levitt bestows a performance that is completely believable and emotional.

Image of Joseph Gordon-Levitt taken from http://www.google.com/imgres?q=%22Joseph+Gordon-Levitt%22+%2B+%2250/50%22&hl=en&sa=X&biw=1223&bih=570&tbm=isch&prmd=imvnso&tbnid=Aw8mFePjGozddM:&imgrefurl=http://cinesnark.wordpress.com/tag/joseph-gordon-levitt-ftw/&docid=6NYbOHguJI2uTM&imgurl=http://cinesnark.files.wordpress.com/2011/09/joseph-gordon-levitt-as-adam-in-50-50-20111.jpg&w=780&h=419&ei=2XDyTqHfI4qXtwfd-PTQBg&zoom=1&iact=rc&dur=312&sig=103715830871851290833&page=1&tbnh=107&tbnw=143&start=0&ndsp=24&ved=1t:429,r:3,s:0&tx=45&ty=74

During the course of the film, Joseph Gordon-Levitt ensures that his overall performance as Adam Lerner is completely believable. In fact, right when Gordon-Levitt’s character learns that he’s inflicted with a tumor on his spine, the audience can notice the look of complete shock that strikes the young man’s face. You can imagine that the strong possibility of death is racing through his mind; so much so that he is practically unable to focus when his doctor is explaining the treatment for his condition. Gordon-Levitt continues to ensure that his protagonist is worried about telling the people in his life about his diagnosis; particularly Seth Rogen’s Kyle and Bryce Dallas Howard’s Rachael. This proves to be very important; as we find out that these relationships will be affected by the diagnosis of our protagonist's illness,

While Seth Rogen's Kyle appears to be supportive of Joseph Gordon-Levitt's Adam Lerner, Bryce Dallas Howard's Rachael quickly proves to be the exact opposite. She starts to appear detached from Joseph-Gordon Levitt's Adam Lerner; as we notice that she is very late when picking our protagonist up from his chemo treatment. And when Rogen's Kyle catches her with another man and then reports to Gordon-Levitt's Adam Lerner about her distrustful nature, we share the the strong resentment that he possesses. After being told by Rogen's Kyle to leave, Bryce Dallas Howard's Rachael returns later in hopes to coax Gordon-Levitt's Adam Lerner into letting her back into his life. However, our protagonist sees through her ploy, and tells the distrustful woman to leave and never return. Thus, we are happy to see how, even though, he is strong enough to express his honest feelings; despite his health being affected by the illness. And throughout these scenes, Gordon-Levitt bestows a strong sense of honesty to his respective character. We cheer for him as he stands up for himself; not letting Bryce Dallas Howard's Rachael get the best of him emotionally, However, while these scenes are quite moving, the most powerful sequences of the movie occur after Gordon-Levitt's Adam Lerner learns that a fellow chemo patient abruptly died after appearing completely fine during a treatment session. After hearing this upsetting news, our protagonist, while already worried about his condition, now realizes that death can strike him at any moment.

It is at this point in the film that Joseph Gordon-Levitt allows his character to grow increasingly furious about his medical condition. Completely nervous and aggravated about the strong chance of death, Gordon-Levitt’s Adam Lerner starts to strongly accuse Anna Kendrick’s Katie McKay about giving him false hope about overcoming his illness. The actor enables his character to strongly voice his dissatisfaction with the way his life is turning out. Gordon-Levitt’s performance enables you to further sympathize with him; seeing as no matter what advice he gets, the possibility of sudden death is completely real. We sense the immense fear in every word Gordon-Levitt’s protagonist speaks; thus causing us to be caught up in the severity of his situation.

We are further able to seriously note the increasing anguish Joseph Gordon-Levitt's Adam Lerner is experiencing; particularly when learning from his doctor that surgery is the only possible option for removing the tumor; as the chemo has failed to reduce its presence on our protagonist's spine. The major drawback, however, is that our protagonist could possibly die during the operation. The night before the surgery, Seth Rogen’s Kyle suggests they go out to a bar and possibly hook up with single women. However, Gordon-Levitt’s rebukes his friend for showing more interest in meeting women rather than showing more genuine acts of compassion. The outburst of Gordon-Levitt’s protagonist permits us to be as taken back as Rogen’s character. We strongly grasp the sides of our seats in a state of extreme shock; seeing as Joseph Gordon-Levitt's performance proves to be completely full of genuine emotion.

And this why I’m so happy for Gordon-Levitt’s Golden Globe nomination. The actor’s performance throughout the entire film is completely real. We recurrently see immense fear in the young man’s eyes; and we know that the uncertainty of his condition is causing different thoughts to stream throughout his protagonist’s mind. Never one does the actor abandon his realistic portrayal of the film's lead character. And because of this, we are wholeheartedly able to worry for Gordon-Levitt's protagonist's well-being. And when his character is And when Gordon-Levitt's Adam Lerner realizes that Seth Rogen’s Kyle has been reading about Cancer and how to be there for his friend, we can completely believe the smile that spreads on our protagonist's face; as he officially knows that his friend does care. What’s more, when observing Gordon-Levitt’s protagonist be wheeled into the operating room in hopes to remove the tumor, we are as anxious as Adam Lerner’s mother, Seth Rogen’s Kyle, and even Christina Hendricks’ Katie as to whether or not our hero will pull through the procedure. That truly is an impressive and memorable accomplishment!

Image of Seth Rogen and Joseph Gordon-Levitt taken from http://www.google.com/imgres?q=Joseph+Gordon-Levitt+%2B+50/50&hl=en&sa=X&biw=1223&bih=570&tbm=isch&prmd=imvnso&tbnid=M6zNpyamko5LIM:&imgrefurl=http://www.fansshare.com/news/joseph-gordon-levitt--seth-rogen--50-50-trailer-and-poster/&docid=yOSklM7bhn8l1M&imgurl=http://www.fansshare.com/media/content/570_Joseph-Gordon-Levitt--Seth-Rogen--50-50-trailer-and-poster-3348.jpg&w=570&h=309&ei=sYzyTq-rOZGXtwfE1tTPBg&zoom=1&iact=rc&dur=297&sig=103715830871851290833&page=1&tbnh=116&tbnw=157&start=0&ndsp=23&ved=1t:429,r:8,s:0&tx=45&ty=85

Therefore I am very happy to see Joseph Gordon-Levitt turn in an emotional and unwavering performance as his designated protagonist. The actor's appearance in the film never drags; as he has your attention in every scene. This is a tremendous feat; seeing as Seth Rogen's unwarranted vulgarity is frequently in your face. It's obvious that Rogen is meant to serve as the film's comic relief; but, in all honesty, his attempts to be funny come off as forced and lacking sensitivity. However, he does share good chemistry with Joseph Gordon-Levitt as the two performers interact with each other in a flawless manner. In addition, the very fact that Rogen's character has been brushing up on knowledge about his friend's illness, allows me to cut the actor some slack. Nevertheless, I must commend Joseph Gordon-Levitt on taking his respected role very seriously and not relying on one-dimensional lingo. He is a very good actor and I look forward to seeing him star in more films in the future. And if he doesn't get an award for his deep performance in "50/50," then he definitely deserves accolades for putting up with Seth Rogen's crudity.

E-mail me at thatsnatertainment@gmx.com

All in all, A Good Show

Jimmy Fallon was a very good host and he was VERY enthusiastic throughout the show. He performed very well with the cast; and the writing was better than it was recently; with a few exceptions of course.

I liked seeing Jimmy Fallon and Rachel Dratch reprise their Boston Teens characters for the opening. though the performances were very good; but thesketch felt a tad rushed at different points; especially when Amy Poehler made her surprise appearance.

Jimmy Fallon's musical monologue was fun and I liked seeing him sing while walking throughout the backstage of the SNL studios. I liked seeing the cast run onto the stage with Fallon and dancing together in their holiday sweaters. Lorne Michaels pearing was a nice surprise as well.

I liked seeing Kristen Wiig portray Kathie Lee Gifford once again; as her impression is very funny. Jimmy Fallon's Regis Philbin impression was great; though Nasim Pedrad's portrayal of Hoda Kotb was weak. This sketch seemed a tad rushed as well.

I REALLY liked the advertisement-spoof featuring Michael Buble' doing duets with various performers. I liked Fallon's impression of Russel Brand; though his portrayal of Sting was a tad over-the-top. I thoughout that Abby Elliot was very funny as Ke$ha and Jay Pharaoh's Kanye West was very funny as well. Michael Buble' interacted well with the cast and Jimmy Fallon and the sketch were good.

I liked the bit where Jimmy Fallon pretended to be speaking to his reflection in the mirror; and Andy Samberg did a good impression of Jimmy Fallon. The two performers had good chemistry and I liked seeing Fallon poke fun at himself. It was a nice sketch and I enjoyed their performances very much.

I hought that both Kristen Wiig and Jimmy Fallon performed well during the Christmas party sketch. However, this was he first sketch in which the writing was very weak. Both performers had good chemistry and they played their parts well. But the sketch didn't really go anywhere.

I was happy to see Fallon, Horatio Sanz, Chris Kattan, and Tracy Morgan reunite to perform their well-known Christmas song. But the whole segment seemed very rushed as well. In addition, Tracy Morgan looked uninterested as he ran in place for the duration of the segment.
The performances by Fallon and Sanz were very good; and they looked happy to be on stage together.

"Weekend Update" tonight was actually not bad. Seth Meyers had a few good jokes and he gave a good performance throughout the segment. Andy Samberg once again portrayed Nicholas Cage in a very hilarious fashion and I enjoyed seeing him interact with Jude Law. The writing was fair; but I wish that Jude Law got to do more.

I was VERY HAPPY to see Jimmy Fallon and Tina Fey square-off against Seth Meyers and Amy Poehler for a "Weekend Update Joke-Off." I loved seeing all four performers together on "Weekend Update" together and they were all funny together. Tonight probably featured the best installment of "Weekend Update" of the season so far.

I also liked the sketch in which Jimmy Fallon portrayed Ludwig Von Beethoven. The idea of himntroducing the members of his band was very cleverAlso, Kristen Wiig's "Triangle Sally" character fit into the sketch very well. Jimmy Fallon was very enthusiastic; thus the entire sketch was very good.

The "War Horse" sketch was very silly throughout its duration. However, all the performances were very good. Jimmy Fallon made me laugh as he acted like a horse; and he acted well alongside Andy Samberg nce again. Kenan Thompson was actually funny when voicing the puppet and Jason Sudeikis did very well portraying the minstral that narrated portions of the performances. In addition, Bill Hader and Kristen Wiig were very funny as the confused audience members watching the performance and commenting on the action. Even though the sketch was silly, the performances by everyone involved made everything much better.

I also liked the final sketch of the night that featured Jason Sudeikis portraying Jesus Christ and talking with Tim Tebow, played by Featured Player Taran Killam, and The Denver Broncos; played by some of the members of the SNL cast. All the performances were good and Sudeikis was funny as always. Surprising that Fallon wasn't in the sketch; but nevertheless, a nice closing sketch.

I really liked seeing Jimmy Fallon, the cast, and the special guests saying good night from the Rockefeller Center Skating Rink. Those holiday send-offs are always nice and I like seeing everyone skate together.

Michael Buble' performed his two songs very well and it was nice seeing some Christmas songs performed by the musical guest of the Christmas show.

And that's the show. Jimmy Fallon was a GREAT host and his enthusiastic performance shined in every sketch. I liked that there was a fine mix between reoccurring and original sketches tonight and it was a VERY GOOD way of wrapping-up 2011. I'm DEFINITELY ranking Fallon as one of the best hosts of the season; along with Alec Baldwin, Steve Buscemi, and Melissa McCarthy. He did a GREAT job and I hope he hosts again next season!

And that's the final episode of SNL for 2011. Charles Barkley will be hosting the show for his third time when the show returns live in January. I'm looking forward to live-blogging that show.

And that's my review. Before the next show airs, I will be writing an opinion piece regarding the first half of this season of SNL. I'm REALLY looking forward to writing that piece.

And that's it. Thank you all for following me tonight. I had a good time live-blogging the show. Thank you all and I hoping to have my article up on my blog by Tuesday night at the latest.

Thanks again and have a good night!

EDIT: I apologize for the delay but it looks like my next piece will now be up by tomorrow night at some point. I promise it will be up by then.

E-mail me at thatsnatertainment@gmx.com

I like seeing the show close out the show at the Rockefeller Skating Rink

Fallon's dressed as a bee.

I'm really surprised that Jimmy Fallon didn't appear in that sketch at all

Jason Sudeikis was geat as always. Very quick sketch though

Sudeikis is very good

I'm surprised that Fallon hasn't appeared in this sketch so far

Sudeikis is good as always

Jason Sudeikis as Jesus Christ!

Foball themed sketcg

Show's going to be over soon

Just one more sketch to close out the show

Very nice performance

I guess there will be one more sketch after this song

Michael Buble' is up now

performing "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas." He's a very good singer.

Musical performance by Michael Buble' is coming up next

Wierd that the next rerun is on New Year's Eve

Jason Segel's isode will be rerun then

This sketch started out interesting

Now it's just over-the-top. The performances are all good though.

This is a wierd sketch

This sketch is getting wierder. Kenan with a puppet

this could be interesting

Jimmy Fallon acting like a horse.

We are back

"War Horse"-themed sketch

Show's coming back soon

Jimmy Fallon is doing a good job hosting tonight

I liked seeing Kristen Wiig's triange Sally back again

Kenan as BB King. Good sketch. Good performances all around

The cast is playing their instruments well

Good to see Horatio Sanz in another sketch

Fallon and the cast are giving very good performances

This is a clever idea for a sketch

Betthoven intoducing the members of his band.

Fallon playing Beetthoven

Show's back

Maybe Justin Timberlake won't be on the show tonight after all

Nice final Weekend Update of 2011!

The jokes were good. I enjoyed seeing Meyers, Falon, Fey, and Poehler together on Update

I like seeing all four update anchors on the show together

I mean 7

Phoehler was on during the open

Amy phoehler and Tina Fey!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

And the guest star total tonight now reaches is 8!!!!

Some of Seth's jokes tonight are good

FALLON on Update!!!! I called it!!!!

I wish that Robert Downey Jr. would be on the show though

Samberg's funny when doing this impression

The special guest doesn't usually get to do much though other than make a joke about a different celebrity at Cage's expense.

Andy Samberg as Nicholas Cage

And special guest Jude Law. I like Samberg's impression of Nicholas Cage

Decent jokes so far

Seth Meyers' jokes about Donald Trunp are the best so far

"Weekend Update" is on now

So far we've had five surprise guests on the show

It's a nice performance

Good to have a llow song performed on the show every once in a while

I haven't seen a mucsical guest sing a holiday song as part of their regular performance in a long time

Michael Buble's will now perform

This episode is right so far

Not terrible but the show has a lot of bad writing

Tracy Morgan looks like's completely uninterested in the sketch

The reunion was nice but the whole bit seemed kind of rushed.

I'm surprised this sketch is taking place now and not at the end of the show

I CALLED THIS SKETCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Horatio Sanz, Chris Kattan, and Tracy Morgan. performing their Christmas song.

This pre-taped sketch is being drawn-outtoo much

Fred Armisen gets a starring role

He's performing fine but the writing's not-at-all special

Wiig and Fallon are both funny

But this sketch was a tad predictable

The performances in this sketch are good

But the writing isn't that good

Kristen Wiig is good as always

I like Wiig's and Fallo's 1920's accents

Kristen Wig and Jimmy Fallon work well together

I guess this is a Kristen Wiig character

Show's back

Kristen Wiig's Kathie Lee Gifford impression and the monologue were both fine as well

OK show so far

Not so great though. Jimmy Fallon is doing fine but some of the sketches are a tad silly tonight. I did like the Michael Buble' commercial spoof though

Charles Barkley is hosting again?

That means that he's going to be on two years after his last appearance.

Kermit the Frog impression to close out the sketch

Timberlake isn't goiung to be on?

I don't buy it.

Samberg does an okay impression of Jimmy Fallon

Jimmy Fallon playing himself

Andy Samberg doing an impression of Jimmy Fallon

Jay Pharaoh doing a dead-on Kanye West

Good commercial parody

Good Ke$ha impression by Abby Elliot

Taran Killam is good as the st winner of American Idol

Jimmy Fallon as Russel Brand

Good impression but a tad exaggerated

Jimmy Fallon as Sting

Not a great impression. Kristen as Taylor Swift was a tad silly.

Short sketch

Michael Buble's in a pre-taped segment

Nasim Pedrad's impression of Hoda Kotb is weak

Jimmy Fallon playing Regis Philbin

He does a good impression of Philbin

Good joke with the tape recorder

Kristen Wiig is good as always

I always like Kristen Wiig's Kathy Lee Gifford Impression

"Today Show"

Show's back

Next sketch is coming up

This kind of reminded me of Mike Myers' monologue when he first hosted back in 1997

The whole cast joins him when he walks around backstage singing about being back on SNL. And at the end of the monologue, everyone is on stage. Lorne Michaels even appeared in that monologue as well.

Good to see the whole cast on stage

Lorne Michaels!!!!

Good Monologue so far

This is a nice

mentioning all these reoccurring sketches that he broke out laughing during

Christmas song monologue

His first hosting stint officially

Jimmy Fallon seems to be more-than-excited to be on tonight

Michael Buble' should be a good performer

I really hope this is a good show to close out 2011

Two surprise guests so far tonight

I'm betting there will be more

This was an OK opening

First reoccurring sketch of the night. I'm betting there will be more

Good performances so far

the writing's ok though

AMY POEHLER!!!!

Cameo #2 for the night

I'm surprised they opened the show with this sketch

I was expecting Barry Gibb Talk Show to open the show

Good to see these characters again

Ratchel Dratch!!

First cameo tonight

Jimmy Fallon's Boston Teens character

ANd we're live....NOW!!!!

It's Almost That Time

In a little over ninty minutes, my live coverage of tonight's episode of "Saturday Night Live" will begin! I am excited about covering Jimmy Fallon's first official hosting stint on the program; and I'm sure that we are in store for some surprise guest appearances throughout the show!

Be sure to have your televisions set to NBC by 11:30pm and have my blog up on your computers. Keep refreshing your screens throughout the show so you can see my latest comments concerning the show's writing and performances. This is the last live episode of SNL for 2011; so let's make thisa memorable night!

Please feel free to comment on any of my posts throughout the show; as your feedback is very important. So stay tuned and I'll see you at 11:30pm!

E-mail me at thatsnatertainment@gmx.com

A That's Nater-Tainment Special Report: Former "Saturday Night Live" Castmember Jimmy Fallon Returns to Host Tonight!

Tonight, Jimmy Fallon, the current host of "Late Night," will emcee the weekly sketch-comedy show he once used to perform from September 1998 through May 2004. I am really looking forward tonight's episode; as I enjoyed watching him when he was a castmember on "Saturday Night Live." He was a very good sketch-comedy performer; considering that he livened-up many sketches thanks to his performance. In addition, tonight is the last episode of 2011; so combined with a former castmember returning to host, we can hopefully expect a fun and memorable episode. Thus, without further ado, I now present:

My Predictions As To What Could Take Place for Episode Ten of "Saturday Night Live's" Thirty-Seventh Season: Jimmy Fallon / Michael Buble

1. A Special Appearance by Justin Timberlake- Jimmy Fallon always cameos whenever Justin Timberlake hosts; and the two perfomers would bring us "The Barry Gibb Talk Show-" a talk-show sketch featuring Fallon and Timberlake respectively portraying arry and Robin Gibb of the famed music group known as The Bee Gees. As Barry Gibb, Fallon speaks in a mock-falsetto when interviewing his guests. But when a guest tries to speak, Fallin's Barry Gibb interrupts him or her as well as shout out a series of comically-exaggerated threats. Fallon's Barry Gibb than asks Timberlake's Robin Gibb if he has anything else to add; only to quiety respond with a simple "No. No I don't." The sketch always opens and closes with Fallon and Timberlake performing the theme song; which is set to the Bee Gees' 1975 song "Nights on Broadway." I enjoy seeing Timberlake and Fallon perform the sketch together; and the latter is always hilarious when portraying Barry Gibb. Henceforth, I would not be surprised to see Justin Timberlake cameo tonight so the sketch could be performed the delight of the audience.

Image of Justin Timberlake and Jimmy Fallon as Robin and Barry Gibb respectively taken from
http://www.google.com/imgres?q=%22Saturday+Night+Live%22+%2B+%22Jimmy+Fallon%22&hl=en&sa=X&biw=1223&bih=570&tbm=isch&prmd=imvnsuo&tbnid=Qj1QdAbB3GzJ5M:&imgrefurl=http://www.tvguide.com/tvshows/saturday-night-live/photos/100385/24470&docid=9lokYcZjveWovM&imgurl=http://static.tvguide.com/MediaBin/Galleries/Shows/S_Z/Sa_Sh/SaturdayNightLive/crops/saturday-night-live-timberlake28.jpg&w=377&h=330&ei=AjPtTtHLM4Xr0gGbm-jvCQ&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=837&vpy=119&dur=78&hovh=210&hovw=240&tx=113&ty=95&sig=103715830871851290833&page=1&tbnh=121&tbnw=139&start=0&ndsp=24&ved=1t:429,r:6,s:0

2. Jimmy Fallon appears on "Weekend Update-" Seeing as Fallon used to co-anchor "Weekend Update" along with then-fellow castmember Tina Fey, I wouldn't be surprised if he would appear behind the desk at some point during the weekly segment to join Seth Meyers in reporting the news. And perhaps Tina Fey would even make a surprise appearance as well; and deliver some jokes as well. I liked seeing Fallon and Fey deliver the news together from October 2000 through May 2004; so it would be enjoyable to see the two reunite during tonight's installment of "Weekend Update."

Image of Tina Fey and Jimmy Fallon taken from http://www.google.com/imgres?q=%22Jimmy+Fallon%22+Tina+Fey%22+AND+Weekend+Update&hl=en&biw=1223&bih=570&tbm=isch&tbnid=42A2c9xIEzcbbM:&imgrefurl=http://media.gunaxin.com/saturday-night-live-snl-weekend-update-anchor/72323&docid=SbnnsJzoO_4IHM&imgurl=http://cdn.gunaxin.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/story.jpg&w=303&h=213&ei=4zbtTrWMKqTd0QGW2YCuCQ&zoom=1&iact=rc&dur=859&sig=103715830871851290833&page=1&tbnh=114&tbnw=154&start=0&ndsp=21&ved=1t:429,r:17,s:0&tx=100&ty=52

3. Beginning December 2000 and around the holiday season until ecember 2002, Jimmy Fallon, along with fellow former castmembers Horatio Sanz, Chris Kattan and Tracy Morgan would perform a holiday ditty entitled "Christmas is Number One." Horatio Sanz played a lute, while Fallon would play a keyboard( which Kattan would hold) and Tracy Morgan would run in place. Seeing as tonight is the last episode before Christmas, I would not be surprised to see the four performers reunite and perform the song. In addition, it is possible that Musical Guest Michael Buble would join in the performance. Furthermore, I could see the whole cast joining in as well as ally of the episode's special guests. It would be a nice way to end the episode and wish everyone Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year. It would just be a memorable way to end tonight's show.

Image of Horatio Sanz, Jimmy Fallon, Chris Kattan, and Tracy Morgan taken from http://www.google.com/imgres?q=%22Jimmy+Fallon%22+%2B+Horatio+Sanz+Holiday+Song&hl=en&biw=1223&bih=570&tbm=isch&tbnid=OUnmdFPJNd24KM:&imgrefurl=http://www.watchmojo.com/blog/film/tag/Bio/&docid=SaXsEjjHFGOIEM&imgurl=http://watchmojo.com/film/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/snlchristmastoday.jpg&w=400&h=300&ei=ozftTqW-BKnw0gHq_rC-CQ&zoom=1&iact=rc&dur=125&sig=103715830871851290833&page=1&tbnh=111&tbnw=162&start=0&ndsp=22&ved=1t:429,r:3,s:0&tx=63&ty=39

So there you go. I am looking forward to live-blogging tonight's episode and commenting on the sketches and performances. Be sure to be in front of your computers by 11:30pm and have your televisions set to NBC. I will be posting my comments throughout the episode; so keep refreshing your screens. It is going to be a lot of fun and it will all be LIVE!!!! See you at 11:30pm.

E-mail me at thatsnatertainment@gmx.com

Film Review: "Tower Heist"

Whenever I see a movie, I always desire perfection. I want a well-written story that is filled with unexpected twists and turns. I want a great cast of actors and actresses that are capable of giving unforgettable performances. And I greatly wish that every central performer is given plenty of screentime; that way we get to plenty of chances to enjoy the on-screen personas of the cast. This concept is very important when examining Brett Ratner’s latest movie “Tower Heist;” which I happened to view a couple weeks ago. I was great excited about seeing this film; as Eddie Murphy, one of my personal favorite performers, was starring in the movie opposite Ben Stiller. As I am a fan of Murphy’s hilarious sketches on “Saturday Night Live” as well as his hilarious starring roles in movies like “Trading Places” and “Coming to America,” I was greatly excited to view his performance. Unfortunately, I was disappointed to see that, while he gave a grand performance throughout the affair, Eddie Murphy was only present on the screen for a limited amount of time. Fortunately, it should be said that even though his presence in the movie was limited, his overall performance was much better than Ben Stiller; who turned in a less-than-stellar performance as the film's central protagonist. Thus I can say with utmost sincerity:


Eddie Murphy’s Performance Is The Most Valuable Asset of a Not-So-Successful "Tower Heist"

In Director Brett Ratner’s 2011 comedy, Ben Stiller inefficiently plays Josh Kovacs; the building manager of a luxury-hotel that is very faithful towards his workers. One day, wealthy businessman and tenant Arthur Shaw, played efficiently by Alan Alda, is arrested for conducting a Ponzi Scheme. It is revealed that the hotel’s administration had invested the workers’ pensions in the plan; and now all the money is lost. Later on, Ben Stiller’s Josh Kovacs learns that Lester, the building’s elderly doorman- played by Stephen Henderson, attempted to commit suicide after losing all his money in the Ponzi Scheme. This triggers Josh Kovacs to confront Alan Alda’s Arthur Shaw over the loss of everyone’s money; and he brings along concierge Charlie Gibbs, played dispassionately by Casey Affleck, as well as newly-hired bellhop Enrique Dev’reaux, played amusingly by Michael Pena, confront Alan Alda’s Arthur Shaw over the loss of their money. During their argument, Stiller’s character brings up Lester’s attempt at suicide; triggering a two-faced response from Shaw. In a fit of anger, Kovacs yunleashes destruction onto the greedy businessman’s valuable Ferrari; causing him as well asCasey Affleck’s Charlie Gibbs and Michael Pena’s Enrique Dev’reaux to be fired and forced to leave the building. After hearing about Arthur Shaw’s money supply from FBI Agent Clair Denham, played by Tea Leoni, Ben Stiller’s Josh Kovacs convinces his two former employees to join him in getting their and the rest of the staff’s money back by stealing the funds. Stiller’s Josh Kovacs also enlists the help of Mr. Fitzhugh; a former Wall Street employee and building resident—played unmemorably by Matthew Broderick. After the group realizes they don’t know the first thing about conducting a crime, Ben Stiller’s character decides to bring in an acquaintance of his. This person turns out to be a recently-arrested criminal named Slade; wildly played by Eddie Murphy. Josh Kovacs reminds Slade that they attended daycare together; and Murphy’s character agrees to train them for the robbery. It is eventually learned that Murphy’s Slade doesn’t know how to crack a specific type of safe that Shaw possess; leading the group to hire Odessa Montero, the building's maid --played eagerly by Gabourey Sidibe to contribute further assistance. And as the movie progresses, it is important to say that while his screen time is quite limited, Eddie Murphy steals the spotlight due to his dynamic performance.



Image of (from left to right) Ben Stiller, Matthew Broderick, Michael Pena, Casey Affleck, and Eddie Murphy) taken from http://images.search.yahoo.com/images/view;_ylt=A0PDoX1VueZOdzAAZ26JzbkF;_ylu=X3oDMTBlMTQ4cGxyBHNlYwNzcgRzbGsDaW1n?back=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.search.yahoo.com%2Fsearch%2Fimages%3Fp%3D%2522Tower%2BHeist%2522%26n%3D30%26ei%3Dutf-8%26y%3DSearch%26fr%3Dsfp%26tab%3Dorganic%26ri%3D44&w=600&h=399&imgurl=i.movie.as%2Fp%2F600%2F38990.jpg&rurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.movieinsider.com%2Fphotos%2F38990%2F&size=43.9+KB&name=&p=%22Tower+Heist%22&oid=64f9accd2948aa582564a0d2aed40aa4&fr2=&fr=sfp&tt=&b=31&ni=48&no=44&tab=organic&ts=&sigr=1194rbcro&sigb=13g09nire&sigi=10qrujoof&.crumb=gsBpkmXzLB0
Throughout his performance as Slade, Eddie Murphy constantly has your attention; due to his dynamic delivery and natural comedic talents. When Murphy keeps appearing on the screen for a series of quick seconds at the start of film, your eyes are constantly glued to the screen; not wanting to miss an instant. And when his character first interacts with Ben Stiller’s Josh Kovacs, it is more-than-evident that Eddie Murphy is going to be “Tower Heist’s” most important asset. As Stiller’s protagonist tries to remind Slade that they were in daycare together, Murphy freely dive into a fast-talking frenzy in a completely genuine manner; resulting in the audience to laugh wholeheartedly as his delivery is impeccable. In addition, it is hilarious seeing Eddie Murphy’s Slade mockingly react to the group of aspiring thieves when teaching them how to work a firearm. His verbal comedy is a sheer delight; and the brisk manner in which he speaks is incredibly amusing. In other words, Eddie Murphy is naturally funny. And it's a true shame that during the second half of the film, his involvement in the film is significantly limited. Nevertheless, Murphy gives more than a 100% when performing his role; which is more than I could say for Ben Stiller when portraying his designated character.


As "Tower Heist's" central protagonist Josh Kovacs, Ben Stiller doesn't appear to have his heart invested in making “Tower Heist.” When viewing the actor's recital throughout the film, it was more-than- evident that most of his dialogue didn’t possess any trace of genuine emotion. In addition, Ben Stiller looked as though he was uninterested in portraying his character; as he appeared to sport the same dispassionate expression on his face for most of the movuie. He appeared as though he just going through the motions; and wanting to get the filming of the movie over with. Furthermore, when interacting with his co-stars’ characters,, there was hardly any chemistry present; as most of their conversations appeared staged and devoid of passion. I will say, however, that Stiller did have fine chemistry with Alan Alda ; as quite a few of their scenes seemed to play out naturally; and you could see that Stiller's character did appear fed up with his foe's misdealings. However, for the most part, Stiller appeared disillusioned; as there was hardly any emotion present for a number of his scenes.

I will also say that Ben Stiller did give a good performance when his protagonist first asks Eddie Murphy’s Slade to help prepare the group for executing the heist. Watching Stiller keep up with Murphy’s vigorous dialogue is worth acknowledging; seeing as the actor tried to make the scene play out fluently. Though it should be mentioned that Eddie Murphy, due to the extreme commitment he has to portraying Slade, more-than-appears to be giving everything he's got to guarantee a completely memorable performance. Ben Stiller, for the most part, just didn't have his heart entirely set on bestowing his assigned feat as protagonist Josh Kovacs.


Another problem I had with the movie was that some of the supporting performers failed to give memorable performances as their characters. For instance, as concierge Charlie Gibbs, Casey Affleck delivered his dialogue in a weak fashion; so much so that I didn’t believe the strong apprehension his character had for pulling off the robbery. In addition, the actor didn’t possess good chemistry with Ben Stiller; seeing as whenever both their characters interacted, there was hardly and raw emotion present. In addition, I felt that Tea Leoni unsuccessfully portrayed FBI Agent Clair Denham; who ultimately served as the love interest for Ben Stiller’s protagonist. I didn’t believe the emotions that were forming between the two; seeing as the two performers didn’t really seem into portraying their characters. Furthermore, like with Stiller as Josh Kovacs, Tea Leoni didn’t seem to be entirely invested into her role; as there was hardly any emphasis present in her dialogue. This resulted in the relationship between Leoni’s Claire Denham and Stiller’s Josh Kovacs to appear unbelievable and devoid of genuine heart.

However, it should be mentioned that some characters proved to be interesting; due to the fine performances by their respected actor or actress. For instance,Alan Alda bestowed the audience with a genuinely-shrewd portrayal of businessman Arthur Shaw; the film’s central antagonist. I liked how he always had a cut-throat retort to Ben Stiller’s protagonist’s promises to get even for the loss of his staff’s pensions. In addition, Gabourey Sidibe brought forward a likable personality to her role as Odessa Montero; the building’s maid that helps the group learns how to open the personal safe of Alan Alda’s Arthur Shaw. Sidibe possessed a fine amount of energy throughout the film; and I enjoyed a scene that featured her character flirted with Eddie Murphy’s Slade as they were practicing opening up a safe. I will also say that Michael Pena did well when portraying Enrique Dev’reaux; the building’s newly-appointed bellhop. He has a few funny lines and he seemed to be enjoying his role in the film; as he possessed a good amount of energy in his scenes—particularly when he was helping out with the robbery.

Unfortunately, I have nothing great to say about Matthew Broderick who portrayed Mr. Fitzhugh; who only served his purpose of proving information regarding investments during the earlier parts of the film. In addition, Broderick didn’t bring anything truly memorable to his performance; and I greatly wish that screenwriters Ted Griffin and Jeff Nathanson would have greatly reduced his presence in the film. That way, Eddie Murphy could have had more well-deserved screentime.


This brings me back to my chief concern with “Tower Heist.” Eddie Murphy, while still being hilarious, was limited to appearing in the film quite sporadically. Whenever his character was present, Murphy was always great and he was naturally funny. Unfortunately, screenwriters Ted Griffin and Jeff Nathanson greatly restricted his presence in the movie; thus resulting in giving more screentime to Casey Affleck’s not-so-memorable recital as Charlie Gibbs as well as Matthew Broderick’s overindulged presence as Mr. Fitzhugh. And even though Ben Stiller played a vital character, I really wish that more time could have been given to Eddie Murphy’s Slade; that way, the movie could have been way funnier and more memorable. But alas, that was not meant to be; and we are left with Eddie Murphy’s overall presence in "Tower Heist" being significant limited. And that, my friends, is a serious crime.

E-mail me at thatsnatertainment@gmx.com

All in all, a very weak episode

I'm disappointehat Katy Perry proved to be a very unmemorable host. She wasn't funny at all and she hardly acted in any sketches. We got to see her sing a lot; but well know that she is a good singer already.

The opening sketch was good. I liked seeing Darrell Hammond guest star and bring back his Donald Trump impression. He was very funny and he did very well alongside Kristen Wiig; who was good as Greta Van Sustran.

The monologue was barely anything. Basically the castmembers were trying to get Katy Perry to kiss them. The joke got old; though Wiig, Samberg, Hader did the best they could with the material. Unfortunately, there wasn't anything there.

J-Pop American Fun Time was brought back from Anna Farris' first episode. Taran Killam and Vanessa Bayer gave good performances; but the writing was very weak. Sudiekis was amusing as the producer; and I wish he was given more to do. Katy Perry didn't contribute anything to this sketch.

The commercial parody of "New Year's Eve" was very funny and very accurate. All the castmembers' impressions were good; especially Bill Hader's Alan Alda and Jay Pharaoh's Cuba Gooding Jr.

Kristen Wiig's talk-show sketch was very weak. The joke about the clips and her having a very good research team got old fast. She gave a good performance; but the writing wasn't there at all. I did chuckle at the footage of Wiig with the cats; but other than that, it wasn't funny at all. Once again, Katy Perry didn't contribute anything at all; other than trying to act confused.

The digital short was very creative; but it was plain strange. It was also another excuse for Katy Perry to sing. I did get a slight laugh out of the deranged bird puppet; but otherwise, it didn't really go anywhere.

The movie soundtrack commercial-parody was cute; but it was basically a rehashed sketch from when Anne Hathaway hostedin November of 2010. That being said, the impressions were good; but is ultimately proved to be yet ANOTHER excuse for Katy Perry to sing.

"Weekend Update" was decent. Seth Meyers tried his best with the jokes; but they weren't entirely funny. Kristen Wiig debuted another character; but the material wasn't funny at all. However, she did give a good performance and her chemistry with Seth Meyers was good. I was very happy to see Alec Baldwin make an apearance regarding his airline incident. I liked the idea of him playing a character and I enjoyed his interactions with Seth Meyers. Finally, Bill Hader once again played Stefon; though his segment wasn't as good as previous installments. Hader was funny and his chemistry with Seth Meyers was good as always; but the ending wan't exactly anything special at all.

The sketch in which Bill Hader and Fred Armisen played the royal couple wasn't funny at all. The sketch was done before when Sior Elton John hosted this past April. Though I will say that Hader and Armisen gave decent performances; though the material wasn't funny at all. IIn addition, aside from talking in a feeble British accent, Katy Perry didn't do anything special at all; d the sketch turned out in being JUST ANOTHER OUTLET for her to sing.

Kenan Thompson then got to demonstrate his very weak impression of Rev. Al Sharpton. The talk show sketch was not funny at all; and Katy Perry didn't do ANYTHING special at all. She didn't even sing as well. Featured Player Taran Killam was given nothing to do. If you all want to see him demonstrate his good comedic and musical talents, I recommend that you look up this past Thursday's episode of "Community" on the Internet. Taran Killam is VERY talented and it's a shame that he wasn't given anything truly memorable to do tonight; other than presenting a very quick Ashton Kutcher impression during the "New Year's Eve" spoof.

The final sketch of the night wasn't funny at all. I liked seeing Bobby Moynihan star in a sketch; but he and the material wasn't funny at all. Katy Perry didn't even get to do anything special at all. I did enjoy Jason Sudiekis' performance though. He's a very good singer and I wish that the sketch could have revolved around him.

As for Robyn, I though that she was a very weak musical guest. She is practically copying Madonna's style of singing; and the musicwasn't good at all. After a great performance by The Black Keys last week, it was disappointing to see such a letdown of a musical guest.

So there you go. A very weak episode. Katy Perry was a very bland host and didn't contribute anything to sketches other than singing. Perry hardly acted and she wasn't funny at all.
Therefore, I am ranking this episode along with Anna Farris' show as the most disappointing of the season so far.

I am looking forward to seeing Jimmy Fallon return next week for his first-ever hosting stint. I'm sure he will give a good performance; as I thought he was a good castmember during his six-year stint on the late-night sketch-comedy show. Michael Buble should be a good musical guest as well.

So that's it. Thank you for following my live-coverage of "Saturday Night Live" tonight. I had a lot of fun and I look forward to doing it again next week. My next review is going to be posted by Monday night at the latest; as i want it to be Good.

Thank you again for following me. Have a good night everybody!

E-mail me at thatsnatertainment@gmx.com

The show's basically over

I REALLY wish that this sketch centered around Jason Sudeikis as the pianist

What kind of joke was that? That was an awkward ending.

Bobby Moynihan starring in a sketch

This isn't entirely funny. Perry isn't funny at all. Sudeikis is very talented. I wish he'd get more screentime

Last sketch of the night

Sudeikis and Samberg were funny

But they have been MUCH FUNNIER in past episodes

I really don't have much to say about this episode tonight

A very phoned-in episode. Aside from Baldwin, Hader, Wiig, and Darrell Hammond, I haven't been entirely imprressed by everyone tonight. Katy Perry has been a disappointing host.

I'm not crazy about this song at all

Robyn sounds like she's just copying Madonna's style of singing. She doesn't have an original sound at all.

Robyn is up again

Ihaven't been entirely impressed by Katy Perry's acting at all

She hasn't been funny at all tonight.

This show has become very disappointing post-"Weekend Update"

It actually wasn't great when it first started as well.

The writing of this sketch isn't good at all.

Kenan is overracting as usual. And Kety Perry isn't being funny at all. Very short sketch.

Kenan doesn't really do a great impression of Rev. Al Sharpton

I'm haooy that Katy Perry is playing a character.

Kenan Thompson as Al Sharpton

This isn't an entirely good episode

Aside from demonstrating a feeble British accent, all Katy Perry has really done tonight basically sing or talk straightforwardly.

This isn't funny

Another excuse for Katy Perry to sing tonight. Very weak sketch

I'm glad to see Katy Perry demonstrate an accent

The writing isn't that great. It's not really funny. But the performances are good.

They've done sketches like this before

Hader and Armisengive good performances as the royal couple.

I have to say that Katy Perry hasn't really done anything special as host so far tonight

Aside from singing, she hasn't really acted at all.

That was a little silly however

Kind of a weak ending to the segment. Hader was very good though.

GREAT play on words.

I really like the chemistry between Hader and Seth Meyers

Hader is always great as this character

He gives a good performance. He has good commitment to his character

Bill Hader as Stefon!!!!

I CALLED IT!!!!

Baldwin is great

I like seeing Baldwin address his situation as a character

I'm so happy that Alec Baldwin is back on SNL again

This is good.

ALEC BALDWIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I really wish that Kristen Wiig wou be given better material than this

This writing wasn't funny

She's giving a good performance

But, once again, the writing isn't good. What a surprise.

New Kristen Wiig character

OK Jokes so far

"Weekend Update" is on now

'm so happy that my comupter is working MUCH BETTER than last week when I Live-blogged SNL

Not an amazing song

She sounds too much like Maonna. No original sound at all.

Robyn's alright

But she doesn't have an original sound.

She sounds just like Madonna

Robyn wis performing now

I have't really heard herusic before.

Musical performance is coming up

That was alright

I liked all the impressions. But the material wasn't stellar.

Katy Perry as Florence Welsh

Bill Hader as Clint Eastwood!!!!

He's always hilarious

I think they did a sketch like this before

Musical soundtreck sketch

Another multi-impression sketch. Jason Sudeikis as MeatLoaf!!!

That was a wierd musical short

That was strange

New musical digital short

Samberg and Perry

Very wierd sketch

Kristen Wiig was good

That was just strange

I'm not entirely laughing a lot

The shot of Wiig's character with her cats was funny

The shot of the eye was wierd

The joke is that they have a good research team

Alright. Kristen Wiig is good but this sketch is nothing special

This sketch just dipped right into Katy Perry's appearance

Show's back!

Ne Kristen Wiig sketch

Next sketch coming up!

Jimmy Fallon should do very well!

Second former SNL castmember to host the show this season. Michael Buble should be a good musical guest.

Kristen Wiig as Kim Catrell!

Great sketch!!!! Spot-on parody!

Jay Pharaoh as Cuba Gooding Jr.

Fred Armisen as Penny Marshall

Parody of "News Years Eve!"

Great idea for a sketch! Great impressions by the cast

Sudeikis is the only one that is REALLY funny

All the performances are ghood. But Sudeikis is the only really funny one

Katy Perry is going to be wearing elaborate outfits throughout the night

Bayer and Killam are giving good performances

But the writing's is a little weak

Jason Sudeikis gets another reoccurring character as well

He's good as always.

Good to see Featured Players Taran Killam and Vanessa Bayer get new reoccurring characters

J-Pop America Fun Time

They did this when Anna Faris hosted in October. New reoccurring sketch

Show's back

I hope the first sketch is good

Not an entirely memorable monologue

That was OK

But the same basic joke repeated.

Kristen Wiig and Katy Perry duet

Bill Hader is great

Andy Samberg is dressed as Katy Perry from her "T.G,I.F." music video

Kristen Wiig with blue hair

"California Gurls" video recall

I hope she gets to be funny

Nice red dress Katy Perry is wearing

Tan Killiam was very good on this week's episode of "Community"

I hope that the sketches are all good tonight

Good Opening

The writing is OK but the performances by Hammond and Wiig are great

I kind of wish that Andy Smberg and Bobby Moynihan would get more opportunities to show off their impressions

Great mockery of Trump by Hammond

He and Wiig and doing very well

Hammond is great as always

I've Always loved his impression

Daell Hammond as Donald Trump!!!!

Good to see him back on SNL

Kristen Wiig as Greta Van Sustren

I always like her impression

And We Are Live.....NOW!!!!!

It's Almost That Time

In an hour-and-a-half, my coverage of this week's episode of "Saturday Night Live" will begin. Be sure to have your televisions set to NBC by 11:30pm and have my blog up on your computers. Be sure to keep refreshing your screens so that you can see my latest comments. Please feel free to comment on any of my postings; as your feedback is very important.

So stay tuned. I'll see you at 11:30pm!

E-mail me at thatsnatertainment@gmx.com

Quick Thoughts Regarding Katy Perry Hosting "Saturday Night Live" Tonight!

Image of Katy Perry taken from http://www.google.com/imgres?q=Saturday+Night+Live+%2B+Katy+Perry&hl=en&rlz=1T4PRFB_enUS460US461&biw=1280&bih=536&tbm=isch&tbnid=jGYtp7c_A4AUfM:&imgrefurl=http://idolator.com/5638002/katy-perry-snl-performance-is-brought-to-you-by-the-letter-dd&docid=z-bmFORBsaN9EM&imgurl=http://idolator.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/katy-perry-snl.jpg&w=571&h=353&ei=HPrjTs2dMqfh0QHPkcmMBg&zoom=1&iact=rc&dur=250&sig=103715830871851290833&page=1&tbnh=159&tbnw=210&start=0&ndsp=10&ved=1t:429,r:4,s:0&tx=135&ty=100

This evening, "Saturday Night Live" is all-new with Guest Host Katy Perry; who first appeared on September 25, 2010 as the Musical Guest when Former Castmember Amy Poehler hosted the Thirty-Sixth Season's Premier Episode. I am intrigued to see how tonight's episode is going to play out; seeingas the only time I ever saw Perry act was when she appeared in a sketch in that very episode featuring Poehler and Fellow SNL Alum Maya Rudolph as the hosts of a reoccurring talk show sketch entitled "Bronx Beat." She had plenty of energy and she interacted well with both Phoeler ad Rudolf. Other than that, I've only seen Katy Perry give a live musical performance or appear in a music video. But every time I see her perform, she has a lot of energy and she seems very enthusiastic. So I'm sure that she'll do everything she can to make the sketches enjoyable and memorable.

As for what sketches will take place tonight, I am unsure. I saw a promo that featured Katy Perry teamed-up with "Stefon;" Bill Hader's popular reoccurring "Weekend Update" character . So I'm guessing Hader's colorful and unorthodox New York City Sight-seeing "Expert" will make an appearance of some kind. Perhaps Katy Perry will appear on "Weekend Update" alongside Hader's character; thus resulting in a possibly-hilarious bit. No matter what, I expect Bill Hader to bring back his character tonight.

Image of Bill Hader as "Stefon taken from http://www.google.com/imgres?q=%22Saturday+Night+Live%22+%2B+Bill+Hader+Stefon&hl=en&sa=G&rlz=1T4PRFB_enUS460US461&biw=1280&bih=536&tbm=isch&tbnid=hNpU3qavxf-yVM:&imgrefurl=http://warmingglow.uproxx.com/2011/02/bill-hader-on-stefon&docid=cBrL1jCn2mVQDM&imgurl=http://cdn.wg.uproxx.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/stefon.jpg&w=600&h=329&ei=svrjTo7oIuXw0gHVpqDfBQ&zoom=1&iact=rc&dur=375&sig=103715830871851290833&page=1&tbnh=164&tbnw=219&start=0&ndsp=10&ved=1t:429,r:6,s:0&tx=74&ty=73

I'm also wondering if Katy Perry's husband Russel Brand, who actually hosted the show this past February, will make some sort of appearance tonight. I am wondering if Brand will join his wife for a musical piece; maybe during the monologue or a sketch. I would be curious to see them sing together; as they are both good performers.

Nevertheless, I am truly looking forward to watching and live-blogging tonight's show. I am eager to see Katy Perry demonstrate her comedic chops during the episode. Hopefullytonight will be a good show; and I'm excited to post my opinions about the the writing of the sketches and the performances featured tonight. As usual, please feel free to comment on any of my postings; as your feedback is very important.

So make sure your telvisions are turned to NBC by 11:30pm and have my blog on your computers. Keep refreshing the screen throughou the show to be constantly updated with my latest opinions. It's going to be a lot of fun and it will all be LIVE!!! So stay tuned and I'll see you at 11:30pm!

Email me at thatsnatertainment@gmx.com

An Update About My Next Post

I will be live-blogging this weekend's episode of "Saturday Night Live;" which will be hosted by Katy Perry. I am looking forward to commenting on all the sketches and performances as well as anything else that comes to mind during the show.

Before the episode, I plan on posting some quick thoughts regarding the episode. I am quite fascinated to see Katy Perry take the stage as the show's host; as it will be exciting to see her acting talents. Needless to say, this is going to be an intriguing show.

So stay tuned for Saturday. It's going to be a lot of fun commenting on the sketches as they play out. Make sure you keep checking my blog as the show airs and feel free to respond on anything I post. It will all be LIVE!!!!

As for my next review, it will be up by sometime Monday. As I haven't reviewed a movie in a while, I REALLY want it to be Perfect. I will still be live-blogging "Saturday Night Live" this weekend. So stay tuned for that.

E-mail me at thatsnatertainment@gmx.com

"Saturday Night Live" Episode Review: Steve Buscemi / The Black Keys

This season, NBC’s “Saturday Night Live,” while featuring great performances by the talented cast as well as the episode’s host, is once again suffering due to weak writing. Like the previous season, most sketches rely on unsurprising jokes and rehashed plotlines. And while the host does the best he or she can with what the material they are given, the overall quality of the writing can extremely dampen their appearances on the show. However, I will say that when Actor Steve Buscemi hosted this past weekend, the quality of the sketches was made better just by his presence. Buscemi was great in every sketch he was given; due to his comically- uncanny delivery and his good acting. In addition, most of the cast did very well with the material they were given as well; even when one of their reoccurring sketches were presented to the audience. Thus, I can say without hesitation:


The Performances by Steve Buscemi and the Cast Made this Past Week’s Episode of “Saturday Night Live” Intriguing and Very Comedic

The episode started out with a decent amount of laughter. Castmember Fred Armisen reprised his lackluster impression of President Barack Obama for the cold opening; which concerned the leader of our country explaining just how much power he holds in office. Using a chart that was similar-in-design to the “Top Ten” tables used for the “Wayne’s World” sketches, Armisen’s portrayal of President Obama listed all the people that were more powerful than him. It was funny seeing such personalities as Oprah Winfrey and Mark Zuckerberg being described as being in more control than the President of the United States. The material was very good; but unfortunately, it was more-than-evident that Fred Armisen was giving no effort whatsoever to impersonate President Obama. If someone is impersonating the President of The United States on a Comedy Show, there must be some effort to do so. Otherwise, you are just coming off as lazy and not doing your job right. The material was good, but Fred Armisen was failing to give a good performance.


For his monologue, Host Steve Buscemi mentioned that his role on the HBO series “Boardwalk Empire” has enabled him to make the transition from supporting roles in films to portraying a lead character on a weekly show. This was followed by various “Saturday Night Live” castmembers to portray stereotypical supporting characters and inquire Buscemi as to how they can make the changeover as well. The players were very funny as their respected characters; especially Andy Samberg as the jockish guy who would lose his girlfriend to the main hero of the film—and Bobby Moynihan was also very humorous when he played the typical party animal who wants to go to Las Vegas for a bachelor party; though later on in the episode, he would portray a character that wasn't funny at all. Kristen Wiig successfully capped off the segment when she portrayed “the confused lady who loses her friends during a horror movie.” Seeing her run around with a prop knife in a frantic manner was very funny. My only concern with the monologue was that Steve Buscemi didn’t get to do much aside from playing the straightman role. I really wish he got to do more for the piece.

The first sketch of the night following the break was another installment of “The Miley Cyrus Show.” Featured Player Vanessa Bayer reprised her energetic impression of the young singer; who has reportedly been involved in drug use. Bayer was good with her impression as always; but the sketch didn’t seem to go anywhere at all. Buscemi played a hippy that had become acquainted with Bayer’s Miley Cyrus; but unfortunately, he didn’t really get to add much to the sketch. In addition, Former Castmember Maya Rudolph made a surprise appearance as Whitney Houston; who was trying to advice the pop star to stop taking drugs. While Rudolph gave a good impression of Houston, it was disappointing to see Buscemi literally pushed to the side. I would have liked to see him used more for the sketch; but happily, he would be given more to do as the show progressed.

The evening’s digital short was next and it featured Andy Samberg portraying Batman; all the while channeling Christian Bale’s performance as the hero of Gotham City. Samberg’s Batman kept approaching Commissioner Gordon; portrayed by Buscemi while dressed up as Gary Oldman’s portrayal of the character. The joke of the sketch was that Batman kept showing up and then disappearing in the blink of an eye after talking to Buscemi’s Commissioner Gordon. The situations got more awkward as Batman would show up while the administrator was taking a shower or getting a prostate exam. Even though the sketch became predictable, both Samberg and Buscemi gave good performances; and I did laugh at Buscemi’s increasingly perplexed reactions to the hero’s arrivals. The ending of the sketch was a bit abrupt; but all in all, I got a good amount of laughs.

Following the digital short was a clever parody of the news-magazine program “Dateline;” featuring castmember Bill Hader giving a comical performance as Anchor Keith Morrison. Hader’s character was covering the discovery of a murder victim of a criminal that was portrayed by Steve Buscemi. Hader’s Keith Morrison was becoming increasingly-enthralled by the murder; all the while smiling widely to the details of the slaying. In addition, after hearing details of the deed, Hader’s Keith Morrison would react with disturbing fascination in the crime; as he was gasping with fiendish delight. In addition, Kristen Wiig gave a good performance as the murder victim’s wife; whose reaction to the murder caused Hader’s Morrison to respond with extreme fascination and the sight of him eating popcorn while being entertained by her story caused me to laugh honestly. Buscemi was good as the murderer; but I really wish that he got to do more. All in all, the sketch was very funny and all the performances were top-notch. It should also be mentioned that even though the sketch was somewhat predictable, I did enjoy it nonetheless.

The last sketch to take place before "Weekend Update" took place at a high school and was meant to be take on The Penn State Scandal. Steve Buscemi played a coach named Bert that was being suspected of being a pedophile; despite the fact that there was no clear evidence to prove so. Buscemi did a good job playing the straightman of the sketch; and Kenan Thompson and Featured Player Taran Killam were good in their roles as well as the people who were conducting the investigation. Featured Player Jay Pharaoh did a good job playing a student that had partaken in a sting operation that was intended to uncover evidence proving Buscemi’s character as being a pervert. All that Pharaoh’s character was able to expose was a demo tape of the coach’s song about a character that he made-up who has a lot of friends. The skit was creative and the performances were all good. However, I really wish that Buscemi was given more to do than just comment on what personal information was uncovered about his character.

While this sketch was decently executed, "Weekend Update" proved to be a significant disappointment. Seth Meyers’ jokes weren’t funny at all and he seemed to be in a rush to get through the entire segment. Kenan Thompson once again portrayed Herman Cain; this time commenting on his withdrawal from the 2012 Presidential Election. Thompson’s segment wasn’t funny at all and his impression isn’t at all impressive. I really wish that Featured Player Jay Pharaoh would take over the impression; seeing as his portrayals of celebrities are always spot-on. The second commentary featured Bobby Moynihan debuted a new character by the name of “Drunk Uncle”. All Moynihan’s character did was ramble nonsensically about the holidays in an inebriated manner. The bit wasn’t funny at all; and it seemed that its purpose was just to fill time. Overall, a very unsatisfactory edition of Weekend Update where no one was funny; especially Meyers himself.

"Weekend Update" was followed by another reoccurring sketch; this time featuring “Sue,” Kristen Wiig’s character that would get overly-excited when it came to surprising either a co-worker or a friend. Steve Buscemi played an employer who was explaining to his workers that he was going to be giving a surprise promotion to another member of his staff. He didn’t want any of his employees spoiling the surprise; unfortunately Wiig’s character obviously couldn’t keep a hold of herself. She desperately tried to remain silent, but her over-excitement kept bursting. When the employee came in to the meeting room, Wiig’s character, in a desperate attempt to keep quiet, ran out the room; destroying the door in the process. Kristen Wiig once again gave a terrific performance; and the sight of her running through the door as well as riding a tractor while spraying a fire extinguisher towards the end of the sketch was hilarious. My only gripe is that whenever this sketch takes place, it follows the same arrangement. I really wish that the host would as well and act as surprised as Wiig’s character. Let one of the castmembers play the one who organizes the surprise; thus allowing the host to be active. I would have loved to have seen Buscemi act as surprised as Wiig’s character; therefore adding more thrills to the segment. I guess the writers were too lazy to shake up the formula a little bit.

Subsequently, the next segment to take place was a pre-taped commercial-spoof for a relationship seminar hosted by a supposed expert in maintaining relationships played by Featured Player Paul Brittain. The character, referred to as “Sex Ed” Vincent,” originally appeared on October 23, 2010; when Emma Stone hosted for her first time. While I was happy to see Brittain get his first real reoccurring character, it was disappointing to see that the format of the sketch almost followed the same arrangement as its first installment. Nevertheless, Brittain gave a good performance and I also liked Steve Buscemi’s erotic chef character; who was offering ways to improve relationships through preparing meals that were very suggestive. While Buscemi did a good job with his character, I was saddened to see him partaking in the sketch for less than two minutes. And in all honesty, I have to admit that Buscemi was barely utilized to his utmost potential during the show; seeing as he practically played supporting characters in almost every sketch. I really wished that he would get a starring role in a sketch that would allow him to give a hilariously-weird performance.

Luckily, the last segment of the night answered my prayers. In a holiday-themed sketch, Steve Buscemi played a husband sitting in an arm chair and talking about his Christmas tree ornaments in an entertainingly low-key manner. Buscemi’s delivery was great and I liked the silliness of his comments regarding his decorations. In addition, I also liked how he admitted that his first Christmas was in 2008; as he hadn’t heard about it before then. Kristen Wiig was good as Buscemi’s character’s wife and the clueless manner in which she decorated the tree was very funny. The part towards the end of the sketch where she mysteriously lost the tree was amusing as well. This was simply a great sketch and I’m glad that Buscemi finally got to be front-and-center.

As I look back on the episode, I have to say that Steve Buscemi was a very good host; and his performances made the sketches work WAY BETTER than they could have been. Even when he was only given a little to do during a specific segment, his overall performance was great. His fast-paced dialogue and his acting talents meshed well with the cast and he didn’t once lose the audience’s attention. He was able to keep track of his lines and he had good chemistry with the cast. Even though he didn’t get a starring role in every sketch, his performance as host was completely valuable.

And I have to say that most of the cast did great tonight. Bill Hader and Kristen Wiig both gave entertaining performances; and they managed to be the best castmembers of the night; as their acting brought about a good amount of laughter and memories. I only wish that the writers would have given them a lot of material that wasn’t predictable or repetitive. In addition, I must also say that I am disappointed with Fred Armisen, who seems to have completely given up any effort to impersonate President Barack Obama, as well as Bobby Moynihan; who’s new "Weekend Update" character “Drunk Uncle” came off as being completely annoying and not-at-all funny. Nevertheless, most of the cast did great and they worked very well with Steve Buscemi.

I will also say that The Black Keys were a great musical guest. Their first song, “Lonely Boy” was very catchy and fun and filled with good Guitarring, good drumming, and very good vocal work. Their second song, “Gold on the Ceiling,” was also very first-rate; though I liked their first song a little more. “Saturday Night Live” had some great musical guests so far this season; and The Black Keys did not disappoint at all.

All in all, a fine episode despite some setbacks. I look forward to watching and live-blogging next week’s episode; as singer Katy Perry will be taking over hosting duties. I’m sure she’ll be an enthusiastic host and it’s going to be exciting to see her involved with sketches. I wonder if her husband Russell Brand will make a cameo appearance at some point during the show.

Well, that’s it. Thank you so much for reading my review. I look forward to posting my next film critique by the end of the weekend. Thank you again and stay tuned for more “Nater-Tainment!”

E-mail me at thatsnatertainment@gmx.com

My Review of This Past Weekend's "Saturday Night Live" will Be Up by Tomorrow Night

I apoloze greatly for the delay. My computer on Sunday was experiencing trouble with viruses and spyware. But everything is working now; and I have been working on my critique It is going to be very detailed; as I will be commenting on every sketch of the episode. So please stay tuned. I'll have it up by tomorrow night at some point. I once again apologize for the delay.

E-mail me at thatsnatertainment@gmx.com

Show's over

My Review will be up by hopefully Monday night. Good night everybody. Thank you for haning in there with me. I promise my review will be good. Thank you again.

That was good

Buscemi and Wiig were GREAT!!! Good last sketch

Buscemi with Christmas Decorationns

He's doing GREAT! This is a GREAT sketch,

Show's almost over

I'll be posting a review hopefully by Monday night

Very good performance

I want to get their new album

This is a good song

The Black Keys Again

There's ALOT of commercials before this next sketch

Buscemi is doing well with the material

As a whole, this sketch is nothing special. Good performances by Brittan and Buscemi though.

Paul Brittain played this character before

Wiig did a good job

Very predictable sketch though

Wiig is giving a good performance

Weak writing though

Next sketch

I've seen Kristen Wiig play this character before

Weak Update tonight

I wish Buscemi would play this character

It would be A LOT FUNNIER!!!!! And a better performance. I just think this bit is just an excuse to give Moynihan a new reoccurring Update character

Bobby Moynihan as Drunk Uncle

Not great jokes tonight

I wish Jay Pharaoh would impersonate Herman Cain

It would be MUCH BETTER than Kenan's portrayal

Kenan as Herman Cain

Not-so-great jokes so far

Weekend Update

Good guitar work, good singing

good drumming. Good everything. VERY GOOD PERFORMANCE!!!!

This is a good song

The Black Keys

They are playing a song from their new album

OK show so far

Good performances but weak material

Good to see Jay Pharaoh doing stuff

The material is alright

The writing isn't great

But the performaces are good. Hader is great as always

Buscemi is doing well with what he has

Buscemi as a creepy sports coach

Next sketch

Next sketch is coming up

The show has been alright so far

The cast did a great job portraying typical movie characters during the monologue

The Miley Cyrus Show was just the same thing once again; though Steve Buscemi and special guest Maya Rudolf gave good performances

The Batman spoofdigital short was good; and both Samberg and Buscemi were very funny

The Dateline sapoof was hilarious; once again featuring Bill Hader's great impression of host Keith Morrison
'
I'm going to be giving more in-depth descriptions for each sketch when I type my review

I'm back

Things seem to be going okay right now.

I'm very sorry but I'm having problems with my computer

I have to stop due to some technical problems. I'll have a review up by Monday night. I'm sorry for the problem. Have a good night

The Black Keys will be a GREAT Musical Guest

I hope Buscemi good skits tonight

The prop he's using reminds me of the "Top Ten" charts used for "Wayne's World"

good jokes

Not-so-great impression

I'm not a big Armisen's impression of Obama

Decent jokes so far

Fred Armisen as Barack Obama

And we're live...NOW!!!!!

Tonight I'm Going to Be Live-Blogging "Saturday Night Live"

Quick Thoughts About Tonight's Episode of "Saturday Night Live"

I apologize for the delay in posting my thoughts. I have experienced computer problems all day. But now, everything's up and running! Here are some Quick Thoughts for tonight's Episode:

1. Steve Buscemi is hosting the show this evening. It marks his second hosting stint; as his last took place on April 4, 1998. I remember that when Buscemi first hosted, he portrayed many characters that were borderline eccentric. He gave great performances in every sketch; especially one piece when he played an unusual employer conducting a job interview with a put-off applicant; portrayed by Then-Castmember Chris Kattan. The whole sketch was utterly hilarious; and Buscemi was in top-form in his role. I'm really hoping that he is given great material tonight that would allow him to be utterly hilarious in every piece.

2. Also, seeing as Steve Buscemi has made comical appearances in some of Adam Sandler's movies, such as "Billy Madison," "Big Daddy," and "Grown Ups," I am wondering if the former "Saturday Night Live" castmember will make a surprise appearance. It would be hilarious seeing the two performers together on the stage; and it would also mark Sandler's first appearance on the show since November 2002. I am going to keep my eyes open throughout the show this evening to see if he eill make some form of appearance.

3. Nevertheless, I am expecting and interesting show tonight. Steve Buscemi is a very good actor; as seen on the HBO series "Boardwalk Empire." I am anticipating creative sketches; seeing as the writers were off for a week and should be completely rested and ready to go for December 2011.

And I plan on blogging the show as it airs; commenting on the skits and performances. I hope everything goes well and that my computer works perfectly. If there is a delay in between posts, it's probably because my computer is adjusting. However, I will be posting of tonight's episode by Monday at the latest. So don't worry if I miss something. I will be writing an in-depth review anyway.

So stay tuned and I'll see you at 11:30pm!

E-mail me at thatsnatertainment@gmx.com

Celebrating One Year of "That's Nater-Tainment!"

Image taken from http://www.google.com/imgres?hl=en&biw=1280&bih=564&tbm=isch&tbnid=JP-NwRLzmj8g8M:&imgrefurl=http://www.cakes-you-can-bake.com/1st-birthday-cake-ideas.html&docid=UlZmOLoQFneZCM&imgurl=http://www.cakes-you-can-bake.com/images/1st-birthday-cake.jpg&w=405&h=296&ei=5-3YTt6DHOrx0gH6-4XGDQ&zoom=1&iact=rc&dur=266&sig=105171626053390580017&page=4&tbnh=155&tbnw=212&start=36&ndsp=12&ved=1t:429,r:6,s:36&tx=124&ty=44

It's been one year ago today that yours truly has created this website! I can't believe time has gone so fast. I have written in-depth film reviews, shared my opinions on some of my favorite television programs, live-blogged award shows as well as episodes of "Saturday Night Live," and also scribed two poems -- each concerning one of my favorite programs. Needless to say, these past twelve months have been very busy!

I'm happy to say that the fun is not going to stop! I plan to review more films, comment on additional programs as well as the overall state of television, and do more live-blogging (Award Season is Nearing and Season Thirty-Seven of "Saturday Night Live" is still underway; plus perhaps other programs will face my live coverage treatment).

I just want to thank all of you for following and visiting my blog these past twelve months. Your feedback means a lot and I look forward to your comments. I enjoy posting reviews and articles for your reading pleasure; and your comments are greatly appreciated.

My next review will be up sometime next week; but in the meantime, I will be live-blogging tomorrow night's episode of "Saturday Night Live;" which will be hosted by Steve Buscemi and The Black Keys will be serving as the musical guest. Check back before the show tomorrow night for some thoughts regarding the episode.

So stay tuned! There's a WHOLE LOT of "Nater-Tainment" on the horizon. I'll see you tomorrow for this weekend's "Saturday Night Live" coverage.

E-mail me at thatsnatertainment@gmx.com

Coming Soon to My Blog: A Quick Look at The Future

I'm back from my holiday vacation; and I have plenty in store. Here's what you can expect to be featured on my blog for December as well as the future:

1. More live-blogging of "Saturday Night Live." This upcoming Saturday marks the start of three consecutive weeks of live episodes. Every week there is a new episode, I will be posting my comments as the show airs; reviewing the writing of the sketches as well as the performances. My coverage for December kicks off this Saturday night when Steve Buscemi will be hosting the show for his second time. Joining him will be The Black Keys; who will be serving as the show's musical guest for the second time. I look forward to covering this week's episode; as well as the following two shows airing on December 10 and 17 respectfully. I will be live-blogging and reviewing every episode for the rest of the season as well; so beprepared! I will be blogging ALOT!!!

2. In-depth film reviews will be featured on my blog. I will be posting detailed critiques that concentrate on the plotline and th acting in different films; as well as commenting on any matters that come to mind. Before the end of the month, I plan on posting comprehensive reviews for your reading pleasure. I look forward to seeing good films in the upcoming weeks; so keep your eyes open. YOU DO NOT want to miss out on a single review.

3. I will be offering reviews of television shows as well. I look forward to posting commentaries on the state of certain shows in the next upcoming weeks. For instance, I plan on writing a commentary on the overall state of "The Office;" detailing on my thoughts on how the show has recently fared without Steve Carell. In addition, I will be writing my overall opinions on the current state of "Saturday Night Live" which will include details on the show's writing and performances as well as the complete treatment of the show's hosts throughout the first half of the season. Expect this writing to be up sometime after the episodes in December have all aired.

4. Finally, as 2012 gets underway, I will post my thoughts on some of my favorite films of 2011. Instead of posting my Top Ten Films (which I did this past January), I will be sharing My Favorite Performances of 2011. This will focus on which actresses and actors stood out this past year and why. A good number of performances have impressed me this year and I look forward to sharing them with you. This will be posted in early 2012; as I await some great feats for December.

Furthermore, as Award Season heats up, you can bet that I will be getting into the spirit of the season. I plan on commenting on the performances of actresses and actors that get nominated for either Golden Globe (The announcements will be made on December 15) or an Academy Award (The announcements will be on January 24, 2012). I will be posting an article that focuses on a the overall impact of a nominated performance. Furthermore, I will post detailed reviews of nominated films and whether or not they deserve the honors. Then, during the telecast of the 69th Annual Golden Globes, I will be posting my comments on how the evening's playing out and whether or not the right people are winning. I will be live-blogging the 84th Annual Academy Awards on February 26, 2012 as well. Henceforth, the next few months are going to be VERY BUSY!!!

In addition, December 2 marks the One-Year Anniversary of "That's Nater-Tainment!!!" I can't believe that I've been blogging a full year! It's been an AMAZING experience reviewing different films, Opinionating on My Favorite Television Programs, and Live-Blogging Awards Shows and Episodes of "Saturday Night Live!" It's Been So Much Fun and I Don't I Thank You All for Following, Visiting, and Commenting on my blog. I look forward to the future and I don't want it to stop! So stay tuned for More Nater-Tainment!!!!

E-mail me at thatsnatertainment@gmx.com

A Notice About My Next Blog Post

My next blog post will be available sometime next week; as I will be going away for the holiday weekend. Upon returning, I will begin working on my next blog post. I am planning to write more film reviews, live-blog more episodes of "Saturday Night Live," as well as post other items as well. Needless to say, I have some great things in store.

I want to thank you all for following and visiting my blog I have fun writing my articles and your support means a lot to me. I wish you all a very happy Thanksgiving and I look forward to posting me next writing. Have a great holiday weekend!

E-mail me at thatsnatertainment@gmx.com

A "That's Nater-Tainment!" Special Writing

Last week, NBC announced their midseason lineup; which starts January 2012. When reading the list of all the new and returning series that will be airing throughout the week, I made a glaring observation: "Community," which debuted September 2009 and is currently airing its third season, was nowhere to be found! After reading a few articles, I learned that NBC is planning to put the series on hiatus for an interminable amount of time come Mid-January. This is a great concern;considering that it is not clear when the show will in fact return. Henceforth, I am greatly worried that this great show might be gone forever come Mid-January!

Community" centers around the lives of a seven-member study group taking classes at a fictional communmity college in the state of Colorado. The show's ensemble, which includes Joel McHale, the ever-witty host of "The Soup" on E!, as well as Original "Saturday Night Live" Castmember and Comedy Legend Chevy Chase, possesses great chemistry; as they are able to play off each other with ingenius penache. In addition, everyone's acting matches-up perfectly; thus establishing them as genuine indivudals. Furthermore, the show's writers supply a good amount of humor and emotion into the episodes; thus allowing the audience to become completely engrossed in their adventures; not wanting to miss a moment of the action. In other words, "Community" is a program that that shouldn't be missed!

Now I could just go on and write a long opinion piece like I always do. But the very fact that "Community" is going to be leaving televisions for an unknown amount of time, possibly forever, I thought it would be pivotal to write a more creative and reflective piece. After all, "Community" deserves something different than my usual type of writing. Thus, without further ado, I now present:

An Ode To NBC's "Community"

Image of (from left to right): Yvette Nicole Brown as Shirley Bennett, Danny Pudi as Abed Nadir, Ken Jeong as Ben Chang, Donald Glover as Troy Barnes, Gilan Jacobs as Britta Perry, Chevy Chase as Pierce Hawthorne, Allison Brie as Annie Edison, and Joel McHale as Jeff Winger
taken from http://www.google.com/imgres?hl=en&sa=X&biw=1280&bih=592&tbm=isch&prmd=imvnsu&tbnid=Cmbh4cVgG980OM:&imgrefurl=http://laist.com/2010/09/30/tv_junkie_442.php&docid=lmrBTfAAeFnefM&imgurl=http://laist.com/attachments/la_tomdog/NBC-Community.jpg&w=350&h=339&ei=HQDLTqidEafr0gHQkfkG&zoom=1&iact=rc&dur=875&sig=105171626053390580017&page=1&tbnh=124&tbnw=128&start=0&ndsp=19&ved=1t:429,r:1,s:0&tx=80&ty=100

Since Fall 2009
The quality of my favorite programs hasn’t been entirely fine
“Saturday Night Live’s” writing has become very poor
And even though I still like “The Office,” it’s not quite as good as before
Fortunately there is a show that more-than-satisfies me
With great performances and writing; it’s called “Community”

For now two-and-a-half years
I’ve been letting out several laughs and cheers
The series’ primary characters are all funny
Learning life lessons at Greendale Community College; rain or sunny
A study group they are; seven in all
Their personalities all unique; thus making the show an absolute ball
And each character is perfectly cast
Their acting is exciting; their chemistry is a blast

Joel McHale dryly plays former lawyer Jeff Winger
Who’s routinely ready with a smirk and a zinger
A smooth-talking ladies' man Winger appears to be
But a strong lack of passion is a major drawback to him
Very self-conscious; feelings he tries to hold
To get his degree in four years and leave Greendale; that is his goal
It has been evident that for his friends he does care for
Thus confirming that with them, Jeff does have rapport

Britta Perry, vividly played by Gillian Jacobs, a high school dropout
She likes to make her opinions heard; even in the form of a shout
It was to impress her that Joel McHale’s Jeff Winger formed the study band
Though Britta, being a skeptic, his motives she saw and did understand
While she has proven to be cynical during each broadcast season
Britta ultimately serves as the group’s voice of reason
Even though the group mocks when her seriousness ruins their fun
She’s been with them since the series begun

Also, there’s Shirley Bennett; played cordially by Yvette Nicole Brown
Frequently sporting a smile; she has been known to seriously frown
Shirley’s taking classes at Greendale and is a mother of three
Though polite and warm, very judgmental is she
If someone performs an act that can be considered moot
Shirley is quick to impute
Ultimately, however, when it comes to helping a friend
Her caring doesn’t end

There’s also Abed Nadir, played deeply by Danny Pudi, who’s a pop-culture wiz
Taking classes in film; he hopes to one day make it big in the biz
By employing his knowledge of movies and TV
Abed can predict what the outcomes of a given situation will be
He is a fan of ABC’s “Cougar Town” and Director Quentin Tarentino
Along with Troy Barnes, they pretend to host a morning talk show
Though it appears Abed only knows entertainment, of life he is also wise
If anyone in the study group has a serious problem, Abed will give good advice

Donald Glover excitedly plays Troy Barnes; selected high school prom king
At the stat of the series, an overconfident manner did he bring
But as the show progressed, he had a change of mind
He became more easy-going, fun-loving, and kind
His friendship with Danny Pudi’s Abed Nadir is very tight
Hardly ever do they ever fight
Whether they are watching “Inspector Spacetime” or playing a game
They get along great; as their interests are typically the same
However, while it appears that for his life, there is no set plan
Troy Barnes’ has proven that he can be a responsible young man

Then there’s Annie Edison; played keenly by Allison Brie
Very academic; a highflyer she tries to be
At the start of the series, for Donald Glover’s Troy Barnes she did pine
But her yearning for him decreased over time
And as the series progressed, there have been signs
That feelings for Joel McHale’s Jeff Winger are on her mind
Jeff, in turn, appears to indeed care
When facing a crisis, for Annie he is often there
Annie's very bright, optimistic and cheerful
When frustrated, however, her screams are an earful

And back on television once more,
Chevy Chase greatly stars as Pierce Hawthorne
A moist towelette tycoon who goes to Greendale
To find companionship; though his view of the world is stale
He’s clumsy, confused, and at times can be a jerk
And as a result, with him his friends find hard to work
However, it’s established that he does mean well
When he surprisingly offers advice that proves to be helpful and swell

Throughout the series, the study group has experienced many a fight
But in the end, they manage to unite
At Greendale, they endure much confusion
Often caused by Dean Pelton, played by Jim Rash, who runs the institution
They also put up Ben Chang; their former teacher played by Ken Jeong
As the character’s state of mentality is not at all strong
After seeing them overcome many a challenge, I can honestly deem
This seven-member study group an AMAZING TEAM!!!

Upon closing my poem, I am forced to think
That a possible end to “Community” is on the brink
Realizing that come Mid-January, I will part
With this amazing show; that has plenty of humor and heart
My love for “Community” will never slack
When it leaves the airwaves, I will pray for it to come back
I will remember sitting on my couch every Thursday night
Watching the characters to my delight
I will be longing for all-new adventures come next year
And when and if the series returns, “For Greendale!” I will cheer

E-mail me at thatsnatertainment@gmx.com

All in all, an alright show

In all honesty, this episode, while not featuring the best writing, featured plenty of stand-out performances.

Jason Segel was a TERRIFFIC host! He managed to make the best of every sketch that he was in. He was very funny and his performances were all very good.

The show's opening was great. Jason Sudeikis was great as Mitt Romney as always. The writing was very good and I love his endearingly-modest portrayal of the political figure.

The monologue was a lot of fun. It was great seeing Jason Segel perform a song with the Muppets. He interacts with them very well and the inclusion of Statler and Waldorf at the end was an unexpected twist. I just wish that they included the two elderly characters in more sketches; allowing them to make jokes at the show's writing.

The "Kissing Family" sketch was easily the worst segment of the night. Everytime the sketch is performed, it follows the same format. Jason Segel made the best of the situation; but all in all, it was just plain repetitive and over-the-top (in a bad way). In addition, while I was happy to see Paul Rudd appear, I wish that he was included in a more creative sketch. It seemed as if they only got him to reprise his character from the sketch and nothing more. Though I have to admit that I was happy to see both Segel and Rudd together on stage; as I loved their performances in "I Love You, Man." I just wish that Rudd and Segel were allowed to be featured together in a more creative and original sketch.

The "Kelly Ripa looks for a new co-host" sketch, while clearly a ripoff of a sketch from 2000, was good; on account of all the castmembers' great impressions. Most notably, I really liked Jason Sudeikis as Ricky Gervais as well as Jay Pharoah as Denzel Washington. Jason Segel was very funny as Antono Banderas; as he had the voice DOWN PACT. I wish we got to see more of Kristen Wiig as Kathy Lee Gifford; as I find her impression to be very funny. It was a good sketch; even though it was a rehash.

I was happy to see Weekend update take a more unique turn this week. I liked seeing John Huntsman appear and poke fun at himself. I always like seeing political figures appear on SNL; and as we get closer to the elction, we are sure to see more. In addition, I liked the "Really!!" segment featuring Kermit the Frog. Seeing Seth Meyers interact with the famous muppet was fun; and the bit went very well. As for Seth Meyers himself, he did his best; but his jokes weren't that great.

The "retirement party" sketch was, while original, was impacted by mediocre writing. However, both Kristen Wiig and Jason Segel gave great performances; which, in turn, made the sketch better.

The CD advertisement sketch, while relying on material that was not-so-great, featured good performances by all. Jason Segel once again gave a good performance; even though the ultimate visual joke was kind of ridiculous.

The quick Andre the Giant sketch, while very rushed and seemed to lack a genuine punchline, featured a great performance by Jason Segel.

As for the final sketch of the night, it actually wasn't bad at all. Fred Armisen and Jason Segel performed greatly and it was very nice seeing the cast have a good time dancing to the music. It was also nice seeing Paul Rudd and The Muppets included in the bit; thus adding to the endearing tone of the sketch. As a whole, the whole segment was very special; due to the fact that it was not only the final sketch of the night, but also the last sketch before the Thanksgiving break. And, in all honesty, it reminded me a little bit of the segment last week which featured Emma Stone and the cast coming together and singing along to Adele's "Someone Like You." Sketches like these prove to be very engaging and a nice way to bring everyone together through music. In other words, it was a very nice way of closing the show.

As for Florence + The Machine, they were great in their performances. I really like the first song they performed and I look forward to hearing their second song once again. The lead singer is very talented and I really like the band's sound.

And that's it. While this wasn't the best show of the season, I have to say it was decent. Jason segel is definitely up there with Baldwin and McCarthy as the three best hosts of the season. Even though the writing wasn't entirely great, Segel's performance as the host saved the show and the inclusion of the Muppets was a nice touch. Needless to say, I look forward to seeing him host again.

And that's my review. Thank you so much for following me tonight. I had a lot of fun live-blogging and I look forward to doing it again on December 3 when Steve Buscemi hosts and The Black Keys perform.

Thank you again and I look forward to posting my special writing by Monday night at some point. Thank you and good night!

E-mail me at thatsnatertainment@gmz.com